TUESDAY 3RD JUNE 2025

Obi: Niger Flooding is a Tragic Reminder of Our Shared Humanity

Visits scene, condoles victims, donates N20m Disaster an act of God, says gov’s wife, donates N50m IPCR sympathises with victims, govt and presidential candidate of the Labour Party in 2023, Peter Obi, has commiserated with the victims of the flood disaster in Mokwa, Niger State,

describing it as a tragic reminder of Nigeria’s shared humanity. Obi, who donated N20 million to victims, said the Mokwa tragic disaster

was yet another urgent call for Nigeria to reassess and significantly strengthen the management of emergencies across the country.

Also, the Niger State First lady, Hajia Fatima Bago, has told survivors of the flood disaster, which left over 153 people dead, 3,083 homeless and 11 Continued on page 9 others still missing to take the incident as an act of God. She also donated

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Wike: I’m An Asset to Tinubu’s Second Term

Bid, Blasts Amaechi for Trivialising Hunger

Says no one has guts to tell him he’s not a PDP member, alleges George is ground rent debtor APC accuses Atiku, El-Rufai, Amaechi of desperation to grab power for self-aggrandizement Dickson warns Nigerians against opposition conspiracy that won’t change Nigeria Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, has declared himself as an asset and not a liability to President Bola Tinubu, saying he would support the president’s second term bid in 2027. He, however, boasted that no one

Chuks Okocha, Olawale Ajimotokan and Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

in the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), had the guts to tell him he was not a member of the party,

just as he accused a former deputy national chairman of the party, Chief Olabode George, of owing ground

Presidency: Tinubu’s Diplomatic Shuttles Have Attracted $50bn FDIs in Two Years

Says president made 36 foreign trips across Africa, Europe, Asia, Middle East, Americas

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

The presidency, yesterday, disclosed that the international trips embarked upon by President Bola Tinubu since he assumed office about two years ago have yielded over $50 billion in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to Nigeria. Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and International Relations, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaye, made this known while giving a mid-term assessment of the President’s foreign policy achievements.

He stated that President Tinubu had embarked on 36 foreign trips since his inauguration on May 29, 2023, visiting countries across Africa, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas.

These, he said, included Benin Republic, Chad, Ghana, Senegal, Guinea, Equatorial Guinea, Kenya, Ethiopia, South Africa, Tanzania, France, the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, the Vatican, the United States, Brazil, Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, India, and China.

Continued on page 9

We’ve Negotiated 300% Pay Rise for Members, Says PENGASAN... Page 5

Chuks Okocha, Michael Olugbode in Abuja and Laleye Dipo in Minna Former Anambra State governor

TINUBU RECEIVES SOYINKA...

L-R: Nobel Laureate, Prof Wole Soyinka and President Bola Tinubu, during Soyinka’s visit the President in Lagos on

POVERTY REDUCTION ON THEIR MINDS...

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Technical, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Education, Dr. Abiola Arogundade (left), and Honourable Minister of Budget and National Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, during a courtesy and working visit by Dr. Arogundade to the minister’s office in Abuja to establish a critical alignment between both offices as they work hand-in-hand to implement one of the most ambitious poverty reduction initiatives in recent times, upscaling Technical and Vocational Entrepreneurship Training across six states, yesterday

We’ve Negotiated 300% Pay Rise for Members, Says PENGASAN

Women seek bigger role in oil, gas sector

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The leadership of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASAN) said it has been able to negotiate close to 300 percent pay increment for its members within three years through collective bargaining agreement.

The association’s push for pay rise to cushion inflation came just as women professionals in the oil and gas industry expressed their readiness to make a greater impact in the sector.

President of PENGASAN, Festus Osifo, who addressed PENGASAN Annual Women Convention in Abuja, yesterday, said since the current inflation started, the association has been in negotiations across the board to get employers to increase workers’ salaries.

Osifo, who spoke to journalists, said there has been a tremendous response from the oil companies with regard to salary increase.

He said: “Since 2023, we have some companies in PENGASA that have done close to 300 percent salary increment.

“And I will tell you, since this inflation came, since this inflation

started, we’ve been doing Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) negotiations across the board. And there has been a tremendous response.

“And if you know where the pay of oil and gas industry workers is, and we’re talking about 300 percent, you know what we are saying. There are some branches, quite a lot of branches have done over 200 percent. And just last night, we got another branch at all, and we resolved issues around their CBA.

“So it’s been, it’s been success stories from one branch to another, from one company to another. So the response, or the push that we have given to the management in oil and gas company is second to none. And we’ll continuously do that,” he said.

Osifo, who said the association’s concern was inflation, assured that PENGASAN would continue to push for salary increase for other members yet to benefit.

Speaking on the challenges facing women working in the energy sector, Osifo, pointed out that there are still issues of gender discrimination, which most often make it difficult for women to have equal opportunities for promotion and advancement.

He advocated for more gender inclusive employment policies that promote equity in hiring, pay, and advancement opportunities.

While welcoming participants to the convention, the Chairperson of

the PENGASSAN Women Commission (PWAC), Engr. Maryann Ada Mbanaso, stressed the need for women to assert themselves by being more visible in decision-making in the oil and gas sector.

She said across the energy sector, women are making their mark, “from rigs to board rooms, from policy making to innovation labs, from operations to strategy, we are shifting paradigms with bold

ideas, strategic thinking and fearless leadership. “This conference is a testament to that shift. It is a platform to stand in our collective power and say with clarity and confidence,” she said.

FG Urges Stakeholders to Restore Confidence in Financial Inclusion Programme

Mulls legislation to back new framework

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Concerned about the growing disaffection among Nigerians over its poor financial inclusion plans, the federal government has tasked relevant stakeholders to restore public confidence in its financial inclusion programme.

Special Adviser to the President on Economic and Financial Inclusion, Nurudeen Zauro, while speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement forum yesterday, disclosed that government has also developed plans to ease

Civil Servants to Own Homes at Single-digit Interest Rate as FG Unveils Mortgage Plan

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), the investment arm of the federal government; Family Homes Funds Limited (FHFL); and ARM Investment Managers on Monday unveiled plans to ease mortgage terms for federal civil servants using the MOFI Real Estate Investment Fund (MREIF) window.

Under the arrangement, civil servants are to secure mortgage facilities for home ownership below 10 per cent interest rate. This is aimed at continuously improving the terms for accessing mortgages under the MREIF for federal civil servants.

Managing Director of MoFI, Dr Armstrong Takang, who spoke on the initiative during an agreement-signing ceremony in Abuja yesterday, said it “was effectively implementing Mr. President’s vision to ensure

that Nigerians own their own homes with dignity.

“In other words, they can own homes at interest rates that make sense. We made it very clear from that point that all efforts should be made to continue to lower interest rates.”

To address the equity contribution barrier, both MREIF and FHFL will jointly provide significant portions of the required mortgage funding, leaving homebuyers with a convenient equity contribution of only 10 per cent, Takang said.

The arrangement also reduces the interest rate for civil servants to a single digit.

The interest rate reduction strategy includes blending funding sources with varying cost of capital, allowing loans to be delivered at significantly reduced interest rates.

FHFL’s access to a funding line

from the African Development Bank (AfDB) will play a vital cost-lowering role here.

Takang said as a mortgage scheme, a well-structured loan distribution and management plan had been proposed, which will feature engagement of Partner Mortgage Lenders to grant the mortgage loans, with all loans made to comply with the Nigeria Mortgage Refinance Company (NMRC)’s underwriting standards.

On the interest rates, Takang said, “We set no more than 12 per cent, and that effort will be made to continue to reduce that to lower figures. And today marks a very significant agreement, which is the coming together, a partnership between MREIF and the Family Homes Fund to bring funds that allow us to be able to own them to Nigerians.

transactions, payments, savings, credit and insurance, as well as help people manage risks, build wealth and invest in businesses.

Government, he said, would pursue legislation to address the issue of consumer trust, if necessary.

With financial inclusion, individuals and businesses are expected to have access to and use affordable financial products and services that meet their needs, which are delivered in a responsible and sustainable way.

Zauro charged stakeholders to, “ build public trust” in the management of financial inclusion, set clear declaration on where customers can make necessary complaints and work on the regulatory spectrum to address the challenges in the national inclusion issue.

According to him, “the People must trust and have confidence in the

system, as well as evolve mechanisms on how people can seek redress for infractions”

He recalled how President Bola Tinubu had in 2024, issued an order to strengthen partnership, collaboration, commitment amongst the stakeholders, as well as recognition of the importance of financial institution in the Nigerian economy

“So what brings about this national framework for consumer trust? We believe that for people to come and be financially included, they have to build confidence and trust in the system,” he added.

He recalled that there have been issues around cyber-security, 419, trusts, and even a lack of knowledge in terms of capacity building.

He added: “So because of that, there’s a need for us to ensure that all the instrumentality of government

are on board, they are doing their work in order to restore the trust of the last man, the poor and vulnerable Nigerian. That is why we started with the workshop with the entire stakeholders.”

He disclosed that the stakeholders’ forum was the direct result of over one year of brainstorming sessions, which harmonised the national consumer trust framework.

“So we know a lot of agencies that are doing good things, like the central bank, they are doing fantastic job. All the regulators are also doing good things.”

He assured that the Presidency would keep engaging “stakeholders to see, how we can serve Nigerians better?

The presidential aide also revealed that the Presidency already has a draft framework.

Stop Mocking Civil Servants Over Inability to Afford Luxury Cars, FG Warns Dealer

Chuks

Okocha in Abuja

The federal government has warned Abuja automobile dealer, popularly known as Alamin Sarkinmota, against taunting civil servants in the country about their inability to acquire most of the cars he put up for sale in his advert videos.

This was disclosed by the National Orientation Agency, NOA, in a letter signed by its Director-General, Lanre Issa-Onilu, on Monday. According to Onilu, the agency is not pleased with the recent advert put up by Sarkin-Mola in a video

to promote a Mercedes Benz 2023 C300 with Artificial Intelligence functionalities, where he asked the question “Can civil servants afford you?” and the AI function responded to say “No! may be in 2062.”

The NOA statement read: “We write in reference to a video skit that you made ostensibly to promote a Mercedes Benz 2023 C300 with Al functionalities, which you showcased and asked the question ‘Can civil servants afford you?’ and the Artificial intelligence function responded to say ‘No! may be in 2062.’

“At a time when Nigerians are

passing through so much social pressure and in an environment where get-rich-at-all-cost syndrome is pervasive and material things are being promoted over and above dignity of labour and decent values, it is wrong to be speaking in such condescending terms about Nigerian civil servants.

“To be a civil servant in Nigeria as is the case in most countries of the world is a very important role. Civil servants across sectors are the ones who work hard to provide enabling environment for businesses like yours to thrive and prosper.

L-R: Technical Adviser to the President on Economic and Financial Inclusion, Office of the Vice President, Dr. Nurudeen Abubakar Zauro; Director, Consumer Protection and Financial Inclusion, Aisha Isa Olatinwo; and Head of Publication and Public Affairs, Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation, Hawwau Gambo, during the National Consumer Trust Framework for Economic and Financial Inclusion at the State House Multi-Purpose Training Centre in Abuja, yesterday

Shettima: We’ll Move Nigeria from Cocoa Production to Processing

Says Nigeria wants $25bn investment for undersea gas pipeline to Europe

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Vice President Kashim Shettima has declared that the administration of President Bola Tinubu is committed to reviving the cocoa industry and the whole agricultural value chain in Nigeria, with a target of moving the sector from mere producer to processor of cocoa on the global stage.

According to Shettima, the admin-

istration is putting structures in place to ensure that Nigeria moves from mere producer of cocoa to a processor of cocoa by promoting sustainable cocoa farming and forest preservation.

Shettima stated made the assertions on Monday while playing host to a delegation from the World Cocoa Foundation (WCF), led by its President, Mr. Chris Vincent, at State House, Abuja.

The vice president stated that it was in a bid to return to the drawing board in respect of revamping the country’s cocoa industry that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) recently approved the establishment of a National Cocoa Management Board (NCMB).

He said, “Let’s walk the talk. We used to be one of the world’s leading cocoa producers, but because of the

advent of oil, we have been relegated to the background now.

“But we can reclaim that lost glory, and the president is fully committed to revitalising not only the cocoa industry but all agricultural value chains.”

The vice president pointed out that the price of cocoa had skyrocketed globally. He assured that “with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President

Overbilling: Enugu Electricity Regulatory Commission Orders MainPower to Refund over 20,000 Customers

Gideon Arinze in Enugu

In exercise of its regulatory powers, the Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission, (EERC), has ordered MainPower Electricity Distribution Company, formerly Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC), to refund over 20,000 estimated customers over “wrongful billing” by the company.

This was contained in a public notice issued by EERC yesterday, where the Commission said that its order was consequent upon many complaints by MainPower’s customers against the firm’s overbilling.

“Pursuant to Section 35 of the Enugu State Electricity Law 2023 and other extant rules, this is to inform customers in Enugu State that the Commission has issued an Order to MainPower to refund the affected customers the

overbilled units for energy consumed in April 2025,” EERC notice read. It noted that a list of the affected customers have been published on the Commission’s website, and advised affected customers of MainPower, yet to be refunded at the expiration of the timeframe for the refund to contact the Commission via its email or call a dedicated number for the Commission’s necessary action.

Meanwhile, the order signed by the Chairman of EERC, Chijioke Okonkwo, and the Commissioner in charge of Market Operations, Barr. Reuben Okoye, gave MainPower till July 2025 billing cycle at most to refund the customers, failing which it would pay a fine of N500,000 for each day that it fails to comply with the order in line with the extant law of the Enugu State Electricity Law, 2023.

According to the Commission, it

started tracking the estimate billing practices of MainPower from October 2024 when it assumed full regulatory control in Enugu State from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC, and raised the issues with the firm in a letter dated 16th December, which it said MainPower failed to adequately address in their response dated 14th January 2025.

EERC added that in another letter dated 4th April 2025, it further called MainPower’s attention to its continuous estimated billing violations from October 2024 to February 2025 and demanded a significant improvement in the next two billing cycles failing which it would be constrained to commence enforcement action.

“The Commission, in its letter to MainPower dated 6th May 2025 called MainPower’s attention to the suspiciously striking similarity between

Ododo: BOI Set to Transform Economic Landscape in Kogi

Governor Usman Ododo of Kogi State has disclosed that the presence of the Bank of Industry (BOI) in the state marks the beginning of economic transformation of the state.

Governor Ododo stated this while speaking during the official inauguration of the Bank of Industry complex in GRA Lokoja, yesterday.

He stated that Kogi State is ripe and open for businesses with the commissioning of the Bank of Industry Monday, stressing the state government is ready to do all it takes to strengthen the BOI to facilitate the development of new and existing

businesses in the state.

The programme of the Bank of Industry will certainly fit into state’s 32-year development plan because BOI represent local solutions to local challenges.

The governor used the opportunity to applaud the administration of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu for making BOI a reality in Kogi State. He added: “It is my pleasure to witness the epoch-making event. There is no doubt that the future is bright for Kogi people.”

The executive director MSME, Mrs. Ugochukwu Okabogu, urged business community in the state to take advantage of the BOI and

become entrepreneur. “We are out to industrialize the state” she said.

Earlier in his welcome remarks, Dr. Olasupo Olusi, Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer Bank of Industry, said: “It is an honor to be here today in Kogi, the Confluence State - where the Rivers Niger and Benue meet, and where history, resources, and resilience converge.

“Today’s commissioning of the Bank of Industry’s new state office in Kogi is more than the unveiling of a building. It is a clear reaffirmation of our commitment to bringing development finance closer to the people and businesses that power Nigeria’s growth.

MainPower’s estimated billing reports in February and March 2025; and gave MainPower 14 days from the date of receipt of the letter to provide an explanation, if any.

“The 14 days given to MainPower to respond to the Commission’s letter dated 6th May 2025, expired on 23rd May 2025 without any response from MainPower.

“The Commission recently reviewed MainPower’s April 2025 estimated report, and observed that the degree of violation of the caps on estimated billing by MainPower had further deteriorated from the 24 percent observed in February and March 2025, to 34 percent in April, 2025,” EERC stated.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Nigeria was poised to go “back to the drawing board”.

Shettima explained, “At our last Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, the government approved the establishment of the National Cocoa Management Board, geared towards revitalising the cocoa industry and the whole cocoa value chain.”

He stressed the need for Nigeria to start processing cocoa products, just as he told the WCF delegation that the country had the manpower, with capable young Nigerians who were willing to take advantage of the job opportunities in the agricultural sector.

Shettima said, “We don’t want to be producers of cocoa; we want to be processors of cocoa because a tonne of cocoa will fetch you $9,000 now, but processed cocoa will get you $30,000. If you turn them into chocolate bars, that might fetch you $50,000.

“So, we have the manpower, the average age of the nation is 17. We have very virile young men who are willing to work if they have the opportunity. So, I’m speaking from the heart; we are willing to partner with your organisation.”

The vice president also disclosed that he was already working on building a cocoa farm to lead by example, saying the passion is not driven by profit-making, but by the

desire to contribute to the social welfare of the country.

He stated, “I want to walk the talk. It is not even about the profit criteria; no. It’s about the social welfare criteria – employing people.

“Look, let me take you to my farm and you’ll be convinced that the new Nigerian leadership is actively involved and is itching to drive the process.”

Shettima pledged Nigeria’s readiness to work with WCF, assuring that he would personally engage the governor of Taraba State to secure the 10,000 hectares in Kurmi Local Government Area of the state for WCF and other partners to expand their investments in the country’s cocoa industry.

Earlier, Vincent declared the foundation’s readiness to work with the Nigerian government to revitalise the cocoa sector in the country in line with the European Union’s sustainable regulations.

He said, “We are in the middle of a global cocoa supply shortage, and the prices have risen four times over the last three years. We are looking for new supplies of cocoa, sustainable cocoa in particular.”

Vincent stated that WCF represented the whole global cocoa supply chain, which included the very biggest manufacturers of both chocolate and cocoa.

Says trained 2,000 milk producers, vaccinated 36,744 cattle, farmers monthly revenue grew to N250,000 from N70,000 Deal will enhance productivity through modern practices, others, says minister

James Emejo

Nestlé Nigeria yesterday signed an agreement with the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development to launch a Dairy Technical Skills Development Programme in the country.

The initiative, formalised through a Letter of Intent (LOI) signed in commemoration of World Milk Day 2025, aimed to enhance the quality and volume of milk production in the country, and address critical needs within the dairy sector.

The ministry said the agreement reflected a shared commitment

to develop mid-level technical and vocational skills essential for strengthening the dairy value chain, ensuring food security, improving nutrition, and fostering sustainable livelihoods.

Essentially, the partnership will focus on establishing capacitybuilding programmes centred on milk production, processing, hygiene, and management, and promoting industry-relevant skills through training modules developed in collaboration with stakeholders, it said.

It will further enhance milk quality and productivity across local dairy

clusters through knowledge sharing and technical support.

Speaking at the signing ceremony in Abuja, Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha, said since the establishment of the ministry, the government had taken significant steps to address the challenges facing the dairy value chain.

Maiha said under the National Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy, attention had been focused on key pillars, including livestock value chain development and feed and fodder improvement.

PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI

Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

in Abuja

HONOURING OUR COLLECTIVE JOURNEY ORGANISED BY FOODCLIQUE SUPPORT INITIATIVE...

FG: Despite Criticism, CNG Initiative Has

Attracted $500m, Created over 10,000 Jobs Says 255 new conversion centres, 53 stations floated nationwide

Addeh in Abuja

Despite initial takeoff challenges, the coordinating office of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI) has said it attracted $500 million in investment and created 10,000 jobs nationwide in less than one year.

Besides, the secretariat noted that at least 255 new conversion centres had been established, while 53 daughter stations for refilling had been inaugurated.

In a statement in Abuja yesterday, Programme Director and Chief Executive of the PCNGI, Michael Oluwagbemi, noted that in spite of the criticisms that have trailed the initiative, close to 100,000 vehicles have been converted, from a mere 4,000 hitherto.

One major issue with the programme has been the reported inadequate infrastructure, as there are too few Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) refueling stations and conversion centres across the country compared to the demand by motorists, particularly outside major urban areas.

Describing a key newspaper report on the alleged gaps in the programme as ‘alarmist’, being barely seven months old in operation nationwide, Oluwagbemi stated that before the current push, there was hardly any CNG vehicles on

ECOWAS

the roads, and no demand at the few 11 CNG stations nationwide since a 2017 pilot by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC).

“One year out, we are pleased that even the doubting Thomases are singing a new tune. With over 50,000 vehicle count and rising to 100,000, the queues at CNG stations are naturally going to rise, because of such unprecedented increase (from mere 4000) in vehicle count.

“This is as a result of massive incentives provided by the administration and the breakthrough in awareness due to the economic benefits of the switch. Nigerians love CNG and the programme is working.

“Indeed, the private sector as well as public partners that will develop the necessary infrastructure to meet the rising demand of CNG vehicles are taking note. Just last week, two new daughter stations in Abuja were commissioned with AY Shafa and Femadec investing in these ventures,” Oluwagbemi added.

According to him, over 175 stations are being rolled out nationwide by various partners, explaining that just last week, the Midstream Downstream Gas Infrastructure Fund (MDGIF) awarded 10 new entries equity investments to develop their various gas projects.

“Three of them were focused on developing CNG stations. This was in addition to four of the six initial N123 billion investments made last year by MDGIF being directed

at the sub-sector. In one year, the CNG sector has attracted over $500 million in investments and created over 10,000 direct jobs. 255 new conversion centres that didn’t exist

WHO Signs $2.26m

last year and 53 daughter stations exist today as a result of some of those investments.

“Nigeria is making progress with respect to CNG infrastructure but

engineering feats take time. It took over 70 years to get addicted to petrol and diesel, it will take more than seven months to be weaned off the addiction,” Oluwagbemi added.

Deal with TY Danjuma Foundation on Local Health Financing

World Health Organisation (WHO), Nigeria Country Office, and TY Danjuma Foundation, have launched a transformative partnership to strengthen Nigeria’s health system.

The package involves a 10-year flexible grant of $2.26 million.

The collaboration focuses on improving primary healthcare, advancing maternal and child health and building resilience for health emergencies.

Speaking during the signing of the partnership agreement at the United Nations House in Abuja on Monday, Country Director of WHO, Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, said the “partnership has the potential to serve as a model for local philanthropy-led health investments to grow in Nigeria and mobilise additional philanthropists

Court President Canvasses Strategic Renewal, Institutional Realignment

The President of the ECOWAS Court

Hon. Justice Ricardo Cláudio Monteiro Gonçalves, on Monday stressed the critical need for transparent financial management and strategic institutional reform as the court navigates a defining moment in its administrative evolution.

Speaking at the 17th Administration and Budget Retreat of the Court, the president said the retreat was not merely a routine institutional exercise, but one that requires renewed commitment, clear vision, and adaptive leadership.

His words: “This is not just another meeting. It is a decisive moment that will shape the future of the Court. The complex administra-

tive and financial environment we are operating in, demands not only compliance but also innovation, resilience, and courage.”

Gonçalves stressed the importance of building a more efficient and accountable institutional framework.

He called for a renewed sense of purpose among departments, urging managers and staff to embrace transparency and creativity in tackling challenges.

“The Court must reflect a strong strategic direction and realign its priorities to match regional realities. We cannot afford to be passive. We must act decisively to redefine our priorities, streamline our procedures, and reinforce our core mission”.

Highlighting the economic challenges facing the West African region, the president underscored

the need for efficient use of financial resources and ensure that all initiatives, are results-oriented, impactful, and aligned with the court’s long-term vision.

He emphasised the Court must serve as a model of integrity, foresight, and adaptability: “We are not only managing numbers; we are shaping the future of regional justice. Our financial and administrative actions must match the responsibility we carry as custodian of community law.”

The president called for the consolidation of strategic plans into concrete, measurable reforms and encouraged collaboration across departments to foster a professional and inclusive working environment, one that motivates, empowers, and attracts talent.

and private sector entities to contribute to the national health initiatives”.

Mulombo stated, “Today, the TY Danjuma Foundation (TYDF) and the World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria Country Office, have established a landmark partnership to advance public health outcomes in Nigeria.

“This includes strengthening primary health care, improving maternal and child health and building more resilient health systems at the sub-national level.”

Molumbo said the collaboration, which came amid shifting global health financing landscapes, represented a powerful model of domestic philanthropy supporting national health priorities and offered a promising model for local resource mobilisation in Africa.

He said, “Together, we aim to enhance access to essential health services, particularly for vulnerable populations in the underserved areas, while supporting Nigeria’s national health priorities and progress

towards Sustainable Development Goal 3 ensuring healthy lives and well-being for all.”

Key areas of the partnership include strengthening primary health care, and enhancing access to quality health services in rural and hard-to-reach areas by supporting frontline facilities and community health workers.

It will also address maternal and child health, implement targeted interventions to reduce preventable maternal and child mortality, and improve care quality and promote healthyAnotheroutcomes. area of focus is the health system resilience, which aims at building local capacity for disease surveillance, emergency preparedness, and effective response to outbreaks and health threats.

While speaking at the brief ceremony, General TY Danjuma (rtd) said the provision of the grant was in response to the decision of the United States government to withdraw its funding support for WHO, thereby threatening its ability to continue

to implement various healthcare intervention programmes.

The retired army general, who signed on behalf of the foundation, said he decided to set aside a portion of his wealth to give back to the society. He recalled his childhood days when access to health facilities was a major challenge.

Danjuma said his early childhood experiences regarding the challenges that people in his community faced with non-communicable diseases motivated him to venture into philanthropy in the health sector.

He urged Nigerians, especially young people, to develop the act of giving and helping others in the society.Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Ali Mohammad Pate, who was represented by Director, Pubic Health Department at the ministry, Dr. Godwin Ntador, said the signing of the deal with TY Danjuma Foundation marked the beginning of another innovative financing package for the health sector.

Ododo Paid Off N98.8bn Debt in 15 Months, Says Finance Commissioner

Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

The Governor Usman Ododo-led administration of Kogi State has paid -off a total debt of N98.8 billion in the past one and and three months.

This was disclosed on Monday by the State Commissioner for Finance and Economic Planning, Ashiwaju Idris, disclosed this while briefing journalists after the EXCO meeting held at council chambers, Government House, Lokoja. Idris explained the debts so far paid-off include those dated as far back as the regime of Alhaji Ibrahim Idris and N50 billion bailout fund

granted the administration of Captain Idris Wada.

“So far, this administration under the leadership of Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo has liquidated a total of N98.8 billion inherited from previous administration of Alhaji Ibrahim Idris and the N50billion salary bailout granted captain Idris Wada administration”.

The finance commissioner stated that this feat was achieved due to the significant increase in the internally generated revenue.

“This in turn was made possible through the proactive efforts of the chief servant of our dear state, Alhaji

Ahmed Usman Ododo, who has given the agency, Kogi State Inland Revenue Generation Agency charged with the responsibility of enhancing the state revenue a mandate to boost the states revenue.

Earlier, the State Commissioner for Information and Communications Kingsley Fanwo had highlighted the significant achievement in terms infrastructural development including the construction of perimeter fencing around the state owned Confluence State University of Science and Technology, CUSTECH, Osara, following the security breach experienced on the campus last year.

Emmanuel

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

L-R: Director of Food Sourcing, FoodClique Support Initiative, Mrs. Abosede Fadipe; Representative of Noella Foundation, Mr. Justice Omenogor; Chief Executive Officer of FoodClique, Mr. Ibrahim Onilegbale; Representative of the Founder of Noella Foundation, Mrs. Damilola Azeez; and Chief Financial Officer, FoodClique, Mr. Alabi Akorede, at the ‘Celebrating Impact Hunger Heroes: Honouring Our Collective Journey’ organised by FoodClique Support Initiative held in Ikeja, Lagos…recently

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

of Justice,

Bill Gates: Why Most of My $200bn Fortune Will Go to Africa

Sees possibility to eradicate malaria completely in Africa

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Dike Onwuamaeze in Lagos

World’s fifth-richest man, Bill Gates, yesterday said Africa will be the largest beneficiary of the $200 billion which the Gates Foundation plans to give away over the next two decades, spanning up to 2045.

Currently worth about $175 billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, Gates had recently said that he intends to donate 99 per cent of his total wealth to making the world a better place.

The foundation has disbursed more than $100 billion since it was co-founded by Gates and Melinda French Gates in 2000. Originally, the foundation was set to close 20 years after the Microsoft Corporation co-founder’s death.

In an address at the Nelson Mandela Hall at the African Union (AU), Gates urged African leaders

In a related development, the All Progressives Congress (APC), has said the trio of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, a former governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, and a former Minister of Transportation, Hon. Rotimi Amaechi were only united in desperation to grab power for self-aggrandizement.

At the same time, a former governor of Bayelsa State, Siraake Dickson, has warned Nigerians to be beware of those that conspired against former Goodluck Jonathan as their conspiracies have yet to change Nigeria and Nigerians.

Speaking during a media chat in Abuja, Wike assured the people that he would lead the campaign of the APC for the election of Tinubu in Rivers State, where the president did not get up to 10 per cent of the votes in the 2023 presidential election.

“You have seen me here. I said, I will support Asiwaju. The way we won other elections that is the way we will win. I am not a liability. I am an asset. Whether you agree or you don’t agree, I am an asset.

“Whether you want to die, you don’t want to die, I am an asset. You may not like me, your likeness has nothing to make me. I am an asset to making sure that Tinubu wins second tenure.

“Are you not aware that I will lead the campaign in Rivers State? Oh, you want me to deny? Are you not aware that he did not get up to 10

to seize the moment to accelerate progress in health and development through innovation and partnership, despite current headwinds.

“I recently made a commitment that my wealth will be given away over the next 20 years. The majority of that funding will be spent on helping you address challenges here in Africa,” he said in a statement sent out by the foundation.

Addressing over 12,000 government officials, diplomats, health workers, development partners, and youth leaders in person and online, he underscored the critical role of African leadership and ingenuity in driving the continent’s health and economic future.

He expressed optimism that malaria would be defeated in Africa because more exciting tools are in the pipeline, including new ways of killing mosquitoes and rendering them incapable of carrying malaria

per cent there but he will win there. Of course, is that hidden? Because I have said the south must produce the president,” Wike said.

He said the PDP might not survive the current internal acrimony within the party, saying he would ensure that the party did not die.

He attributed the gale of defections hitting the party particularly in Delta and Akwa Ibom states to party leadership problem and lack of intelligence gathering.

“You won’t tell me that they didn’t have intelligence that Delta will go. You won’t tell me that they didn’t have intelligence that Akwa Ibom will go. Now, leadership what would you do? Send a team to ask but ‘Why are you doing this’?

“No, you’re making a mistake. This is impunity instead you say ‘Let them go’. Look, opposition does not do impunity. Put everybody together. You don’t say, let them go. Let me tell you, they are playing to the gallery. I cannot do that. the more you look, the less you see.”

Wike also blasted his predecessor, Rotimi Amaechi, of using his 60th birthday anniversary to lie to Nigerians and insulting the people that hunger has increased among Nigerians under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“Let us tell ourselves this. He was Speaker 1999 to 2007 and if anybody knows, he was the most pompous speaker, then he was reading law

Pre SID encY: T I nubu’ S D

The former Ambassador added that several additional visits had been approved for the rest of the year, all aimed at engaging, deepening, and strengthening Nigeria’s bilateral relations with other nations.

According to Enikanolaye, these diplomatic efforts have not only raised Nigeria’s profile globally but have also translated into tangible economic gains while there were investments attracted through these foreign engagements. These, he said, included commitments from Sunil Bharti, ExxonMobil, TotalEnergies, Indorama, Jindal Steel, Coca-Cola, Apple, Maersk, Arise, Shell, Afreximbank, companies from the Netherlands, and a waste-to-wealth industrial facility in Lagos.

The total value of the commitments, he stressed, amounted to over $50 billion.

The presidential aide said the inflows were a result of the administration’s economic reforms and effective foreign policy, noting that while the financial figures were significant, the skills and technology transfer that come with them were equally important but could not be quantified.

He also spoke about Nigeria’s relationship with China, which he said has been elevated to the level of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership under President Tinubu’s administration.

This relationship, according to him, included key infrastructure projects, currency swap agreements, and other collaborative efforts.

On climate diplomacy, Enikanolaye noted that Nigeria has remained active in global climate change conversations.

President Tinubu, he said, has consistently raised the country’s environmental concerns, such as rising sea levels, the shrinking of Lake Chad, unpredictable rainfall, flash floods, and threats to food security while also advocating increased access to climate finance through mechanisms being developed internationally.

The ex-envoy also announced that Nigeria has gained 16,300 square kilometers of maritime territory under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, expanding the country’s continental shelf deep into the Atlantic Ocean and described it as a major achievement that offers enormous potential for maritime security and the exploitation of blue economy resources.

Dismissing criticism over the president’s frequent international trips, Enikanolaye said such engagements were pivotal to national development and global positioning.

He emphasised that what remained was for the outcomes of the foreign trips to be fully implemented to posi-

parasite.

Gates said: “With partners in Africa, we are preparing to showcase those tools and get them ready for roll out. I believe that there is real possibility over the next 20 years to completely eradicate malaria. That will be a huge achievement.”

He also said that it took the interventions of Alhaji Aliko Dangote and the current Minister of Health, Dr. Muhammad Pate to facilitate the eradication of polio in Nigeria.

“Polio looked very difficult to get out in Nigeria. And it is only through great leadership with people like Dr. Mohammed Pate, who is now the minister of health, that this became successful.

“I partnered with generous leaders like Aliko Dangote to work with traditional and religious leaders throughout the country, but particularly in the north, to get the words out about the importance of

in London as a speaker.

“He became a governor 2007 to 2015 he was still reading law in London. Eight years as speaker, Rivers State Assembly, eight years as governor he never talked about hunger.

“He became a minister from 2015 to 2023, eight years, super Minister of Transport, where you are borrowing money from Afreximbank, he didn’t talk about hunger.

“Two years, you have left office, and in a coalition because he is hungry. You’re only hungry for power. And that shows failure on his part. How do you look at this, how do you insult Nigerians?”

He accused Amaechi of trivialising hunger and poverty by insulting Nigerians in the process.

“You join Atiku, you join El-Rufai because you are hungry. Have you not insulted Nigerians? It’s just that you can’t stay out of power. That’s the hunger.

“You can’t stay out of power. How would a man who served 1999 to 2023 stand before Nigerians, who presided over billions of Naira.

“This was the same man who, on a national television, told Nigeria he doesn’t like money meanwhile dollar was showing him, you are carrying dollar, and you are telling Nigerians you don’t like eh, money.

“What kind of country is this? And we are listening to that, and you said, he is influential? What is

tively impact the lives of Nigerians.

“It is, therefore, ludicrous for anyone to criticise the participation of Mr. President at various international engagements, whether statutory or invitational.

N50 million to the cause.

At the same time, the Director General of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, has extended sympathies to the families of the victims.

However, calling on the federal government and other humanitarian agencies to intensify their interventions by ensuring the timely provision of essential relief - shelter, food, clean water, and medical care - to all those affected, Obi said he received the news with sadness.

‘’I received with deep sadness the tragic news of the devastating flooding in the Mokwa Community of Niger State, which has claimed over 100 lives and submerged more than 3,000 homes. This is a heartbreaking and deeply distressing development for our nation.

‘’The scale of destruction is unimaginable - entire families have been displaced, livelihoods destroyed, and whole communities thrown into mourning. My heart goes out, with deep compassion, to all the victims,

polio vaccines.

“The main type of polio was completely eliminated all over Africa in 2016, including in Nigeria where it looked like we might not succeed,” Gates said.

He, however, added that there is still a variant of polio that is still circulating and “we need to take all the things that we did and double down to combat this variant.”

“By unleashing human potential through health and education, every country in Africa should be on a path to prosperity – and that path is an exciting thing to be part of,” Gates said.

Gates called for prioritising primary healthcare, emphasising that “investing in primary healthcare has the greatest impact on health and wellbeing.”

“With primary healthcare, what we’ve learned is that helping the mother be healthy and have great

influence? You know, we overrate people. He was governor 2015 he couldn’t produce a successor.

“He couldn’t give his candidate, Muhammadu Buhari common 25 per cent. He was a sitting minister in 2019, no president had ever moved with soldiers the way he came with soldiers. He said he produced the governor. He couldn’t produce a candidate.

“Again, his candidate, Buhari, didn’t get 25 per cent and he was the DG of campaign. Again, in 2023, he came, okay, this time around, ‘I’m going to support Atiku in PDP’. Thank God we did not support PDP.

“If I supported PDP and they won, you would have taken the glory but we say okay we will not support PDP. They failed. They didn’t even get 10 per cent. So, what is his influence?” Wike said.

He, however, declared that no one within the PDP has the authority or political capital to question his membership or chase him out of the party.

He dismissed criticisms about his loyalty, saying he remained one of the most consistent and hardworking members of the PDP.

“I am still in the PDP. I have not seen anybody who would have the guts to tell me, ‘You are not a member of the PDP.’ Who is that? What is his contribution to the party more than me?” he said.

Wike also berated PDP stalwart,

“What is needed now is the full implementation of the positive outcomes of these foreign engagements, so their benefits are felt more directly in the lives of the Nigerian people,” he said.

their families, and the entire Mokwa community.

‘’At a time like this, we are reminded of the importance of empathy, solidarity, and swift action to support one another through grief and loss,’’ he stated.

Obi, who commended handling of the disaster, said, urged “the federal government, and other humanitarian organisations, to intensify their interventions by ensuring the timely provision of essential relief - shelter, food, clean water, and medical care - to all those affected.

‘’This tragic disaster is yet another urgent call for Nigeria to reassess and significantly strengthen our disaster preparedness systems. We must invest in sustainable and proactive solutions that protect lives and property, particularly in vulnerable riverine communities, as the rainy season continues.”

Obi who was accompanied on the visit by the Acting National Chairman of the Labour Party, Dr Nenadi Usman, and the National Coordinator of the

nutrition before she gets pregnant, while she is pregnant, delivers the strongest results. Ensuring the child receives good nutrition in their first four years as well makes all the difference,” he stressed.

The statement added that Gates’ speech highlighted how countries like Nigeria, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Zambia are showing what’s possible when bold leadership harnesses innovation.

He spoke about the transformative potential of artificial intelligence, noting its relevance for the continent’s future. He praised Africa’s young innovators, saying he was “seeing young people in Africa embracing this, and thinking about how it applies to the problems that they want to solve.”

Drawing a parallel to the continent’s mobile banking revolution, he added, “Africa largely skipped traditional banking and now you

Chief Bode George, for refusing to pay tax on his property in Abuja, saying George’s name was number 3,092 on the list of persons published in national newspapers, who had defaulted in paying ground rent from one to 10 years. He berated the former National Chairman of PDP over his remark regarding the sealing of the PDP National Secretariat over inability to pay ground rent.

“I said, look ground rent. On that number 3,092, you know who is going to be there? Olabode Ibiyinka George. His number is 3,092. At that level, a senior citizen.

“I travelled three days and signed 1,5000 C of Os and over 700 consent documents. You come and collect C of O, you take it and go and do business and collect money from the bank. Then you sit, that they have not reminded you, that you suppose to pay money.

“What kind of a citizen is that? You know you are a debtor. You took loans from bank. You say the bank has not reminded me,” Wike said.

The minister said Nigerian property owners abroad paid their taxes because they realise that government would take over their property, but while in Nigeria they believed nothing would happen.

He decried the attitude, noting that such attitude of religion and ethnicity has destroyed the country and kept it where it is today.

APC: Atiku, El-Rufai, Amaechi Desperate to Grab Power for Self-aggrandizement

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has said the trio of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, a former governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, and a

Obedient Movement, Dr Yunusa Tanko, visited the scene of the incident and consoled the affected families however donated some money.

“As part of my commitment to stand with the people of Niger State during this difficult time, I made an initial donation of N20 million to support the effort of the government and I will continue to support their effort,” he later wrote on his X account.

Mrs. Bago: It’s as an Act of God

Niger State First Lady, Hajia Fatima Bago, has told survivors of last week’s flood to take the incident as an act of God.

Hajia Bago told the survivors that “Only God knows how and why it happened” adding that the development was “ a test from God.” She, therefore, told members of the community to take the issue as an act of God and continue to pray to God to grant repose for the souls of the departed and for such an incident

have a chance, as you build your next generation healthcare systems, to think about how AI is built into that.” In Ethiopia and Nigeria this week, the release noted that Gates will see first-hand the state of health and development priorities in the wake of foreign aid cuts, and he will affirm his and the foundation’s commitment to supporting Africa’s progress in health and development over the next 20 years.

former Minister of Transportation, Hon. Rotimi Amaechi were united in desperation to grab power for self-aggrandizement.

National Publicity Secretary of the APC, Felix Morka, in a statement yesterday rejected allegation that the government of President Bola Tinubu was “weaponising” poverty by not eradicating the scourge in two years.

The statement was reportedly made at a public lecture held in Abuja on Saturday to mark the 60th birthday anniversary celebration of Amaechi, a former governor.

“But the celebration quickly dissolved into an occasion for Amaechi, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President, and Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, former Governor of Kaduna State and former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory —leading displaced rent-seekers — to showcase their frenzied desperation to grab power purely for their self-aggrandizement.

“These three individuals have occupied Nigeria’s highest political offices between 1999 and 2023, either as Vice President, Governors, or Ministers, among other important positions.

“In all 24 years, the trio, individually or collectively, could not and did not eradicate poverty in their states or the country. They did not even attempt to address, let alone tackle the structural challenges and distortions that stifled the economy and worsened poverty over the years.

“Rather, they reveled in mindless rent-seeking behaviour, sold national assets to their cronies for mere pittance, engaged in corrupt and wasteful expenditures in their states, and relentlessly sponsored state violence against their own people.

“Take the case of Amaechi, the

not to happen again.

Hajia Bago announced a donation of N50m to the disaster relief fund “on behalf of myself and my children.”

IPCR Sympathises with Flood Victims

Director General of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, has extended sympathies to the families of the victims affected by the recent devastating flooding in Niger State. The IPCR while recognising the severity of the situation and the immense challenges faced by the victims and their families in a condolence message expressed sadness over the loss of lives and property, emphasising the need for collective action to support the affected communities.

The IPCR called for empathy and solidarity in times of crisis, stating that the flooding in Niger State has, however, underscored the need for timely and effective humanitarian assistance.

Bill Gates

Nigeria’s Cybersecurity Market to Hit

$345.43m

Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole in Abuja

Director General of National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kachifu Abdullahi, has stated that the country’s cybersecurity market would hit $345.43 million by 2029, citing Mordor Intelligence report. Abdullahi stated this at a joint press conference by NITDA, Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), and QNA in Abuja, Monday.

The press conference was to

By 2029,

announce the maiden National Cybersecurity Conference (NCSC) 2025, holding between June 7 and 10, with the theme, “Building a Resilient Digital Future.”

Abdullahi said the country’s digital economy had seen a rapid digital growth of $207.80 million in 2024 and was expected to reach $345.43 million by 2029.

He explained, “The country’s digital economy has seen rapid growth, contributing 17.68 per cent to our GDP in 2024, overtaking the

oil and gas sector.

“With 5G networks expanding to more cities and broadband reaching over 134 million users (a 44.4 per cent penetration rate), Nigeria has become Africa’s top hub for start-ups.

“According to Mordor Intelligence’s report, this digital growth has also boosted Nigeria’s cybersecurity market, valued at $207.80 million in 2024 and expected to grow to $345.43 million by 2029, with faster growth projected to reach 14.6 per cent annually.”

Says NITDA DG

Abdullahi disclosed, “The Nigerian government is investing heavily in creating a digitally secure environment through various initiatives, such as: 3 Million Tech Talents (3MTT) Initiative, which aims to train three million tech professionals by 2027, preparing Nigeria’s youth for global tech opportunities including cybersecurity.”

He added, “These efforts are already creating results. Nucamp’s February 2025 report predicts that by 2025, Nigeria’s cybersecurity sector is

expected to create 20 per cent more job opportunities, with entry-level salaries ranging from N4 million to N6 million annually.”

He emphasised, “The digital age has brought incredible opportunities for innovation and economic growth. However, it has also created serious cybersecurity challenges.

“In Nigeria, the emergence of sophisticated cyber-attacks, often powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI), highlights the urgent need for robust preventive measures.

Lagos to Distribute 80m Cookstoves to Residents

Segun James

As part of its Cleaner Lagos Initiative, the Lagos State Government in partnership with a private firm, GreenPlinth Africa, is to launch 80 million Clean Cookstove Initiative aimed at promoting clean energy access and reducing harmful air pollution in the country.

The project, which is an initiative of the state’s Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget is expected to generate 1.2 billion tonnes of compliance carbon offsets and provide an opportunity to improve the lives of millions of Nigerians especially women and children.

This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Mr. Opeyemi George, together with Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Office of Climate Change and Circular Economy, Mrs. Titilayo Oshodi, during a press briefing at Alausa, Ikeja.

With the theme: “Clean Cooking Access for Africa: Leaving No One

Behind,” the project is anchored by the Lagos State Office of Climate Change and Circular Economy

In his keynote address, George said: “This partnership is more than just a formal agreement - it is a strategic leap forward in our quest to build a greener, healthier, and more inclusive Lagos.

“The 80 million Clean Cookstove Initiative represents a transformational opportunity to improve the lives of millions - especially women and children - by promoting clean energy access, reducing harmful air pollution, and curbing deforestation across vulnerable communities.

“Beyond its clear health and environmental benefits, this initiative is also an economic catalyst. With over 35 million green jobs projected and the launch of Africa’s first subnational carbon exchange right here in Lagos, we are setting the pace for climate-smart governance and sustainable development on the continent.

“Our collaboration with GreenPlinth reflects the THEMES++ agenda

in action - unlocking innovation, driving investment, and prioritizing people. And as Lagos leads as the anchor state, we reaffirm our commitment to transparency, accountability, and delivering lasting impact.

“Together, we are not just implementing a project - we are shaping the future of Nigeria’s climate and economic resilience.”

According to him, project Advisory Board to be chaired by Governor Sanwo-Olu while Governor Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State will be the Deputy Chairman, supported by six Vice Chairpersons from Nigeria’s geopolitical zones and private sector, developmental, NGO, and CSO leaders.

The project compliance team to be led by Mrs. Oshodi, Special Adviser on Climate Change & Circular Economy (OCCE), would ensure seamless implementation, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder engagement.

The Lagos Carbon Exchange (LCX) is scheduled to take place on June 25 beginning at Makoko and

will be a leap forward for Africa- the first of its kind and only the second globally after California.

Earlier, Oshodi said: “at this defining moment in Nigeria’s climate and economic transformation. We gather here to discuss another climate initiative and to witness the launch of a historic, game-changing project that will place Nigeria at the forefront of the compliance carbon markets under UNFCCC’s Article 6.4ER framework.”

She added: “Clean Cookstoves Project is not just the largest clean cooking initiative in the world; it is a bold economic, social, and environmental blueprint.”

She highlighted the benefits associated with the initiative to include: generate 1.2 billion tonnes of compliance carbon offsets; create over 35 million green jobs; establish a

forex-denominated, sovereign green endowment fund for sustainable development and improve the health and well-being of millions, especially women and children.

“I am proud to announce that Lagos State will serve as the anchor state for this transformative project.

In partnership with the Office of the Special Adviser on Climate Change & Circular Economy (OCCE) and the Ministry of Economic Planning & Budget (MEPB), Lagos will spearhead the deployment of the first 6 million free clean cookstoves, with distribution set to commence in June 2025, starting in Makoko.

“Lagos’s strategic leadership in this project aligns seamlessly with the state’s THEMES+ agenda, unlocking new sources of sustainable revenue, green investments, and long-term economic development.

“Focusing on equipping the nation’s youth with skills in technology and digital innovation can harness their talents for positive contributions.”

In his remarks, Coordinator, NCSC 2025, Mr. Ahmad Abubakar, said, “As we continue to embrace digital transformation across all sectors of our economy, it is crucial that we also strengthen the security and resilience of our digital infrastructure. Cyber threats are evolving rapidly, and their potential impact on national security, economic stability, and public trust cannot be overstated.”

On his part, Managing Director, QNA, Ankit Shukla, stated that the National Cybersecurity Conference 2025 was a gateway for global technology leaders, investors, and policymakers to engage with the region’s rapidly growing digital economy, with QNA as a strategic partner.

“This is Nigeria’s moment to lead and secure region’s digital transformation,” he added. Abubakar said, “As we currently migrate all our services, all our lives, into those digital environments; we have to hold hands together and move. As we move to this environment so as criminals also migrate to that environment.”

President of Cybersecurity Experts Association of Nigeria (CSEAN), Ade Shoyinka, who was represented by Hanniel Jafar, stated that the conference was a welcome development that would help to proffer solutions to most cybersecurity challenges facing the country.

The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) has concluded plans to launch a digital marketplace for waste transactions in consonance with the implementation of Circular Economy in Nigeria, The platform, Waste Marketplace Nigeria, is a collaboration between NESREA and Recyclestack for the digitization of Circular Economy in Nigeria. Circular Economy is operational-

ized in Nigeria under the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Programme, which extends the responsibility of a producer throughout the lifecycle of the product.

EPR is operational in sectors such as food and beverages, batteries, used tyres, and electrical electronics, with Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs), recyclers, and collectors playing key roles along the value chain.

Through Waste Marketplace Nigeria platform, NESREA plans

to enhance digital inclusion and job creation for the informal sector, boost material recovery, reduce illegal dumping and increase the rate of recycling.

The platform targets to onboard at least 10,000 verified users within the first four months, and by serving as a data mining source in the waste management, it will strengthen compliance and enforcement of environmental standards.

The project will kick off in Lagos and Abuja, with subsequent roll out in major cities across the country.

No fewer than 2000 residents of Ogun State will be benefitting from free healthcare services organised by the state government in collaboration with Global Health Charity and Training Foundation and Remo Growth and Development Foundation.

The programme, encompasses free surgical and medical health services.

Speaking at a news briefing that preceded the programme in Sagamu, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, disclosed the medical outreach which started yesterday would run for four days.

The commissioner added that all indigents and indigenes of the state are open to benefit from the programme.

Coker said the outreach was one of the ways through which the government was using to address

manpower shortage in the health sector.

She described members of the Global Health Charity and Training Foundation leading the medical outreach as medical experts from the UK and the US not easily available in the state.

She added that some of the equipment brought in for the mission by the Global Health Charity and Training Foundation are not readily available within the state.

With this equipment, Coker said the beneficiaries would enjoy international standard services.

She said: “This partnership also involves the Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, where thoracic surgical procedures would be conducted, as well as the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Sagamu.

“We are using these facilities because the surgical procedures can only be done in tertiary hospitals.

“I wish to express my appreciation to His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, for providing a colonoscopy equipment which would be useful for the outreach and even long after; his investment in the health sector has been massive, owing to health being a major component of the Social Wellbeing pillar of the ISEYA Agenda.”

A member of the Board of Trustees of the Global Health Charity and Training Foundation, Dr. Adebayo Akintobi, said the initiative would feature orthopaedic procedures such as joint replacements, thoracic surgeries, and urological services, including prostatectomy for prostate cancer patients.

L-R: Managing Director Interswitch, Elliott Sangoleye; Group Head, Business and Digital Services, Providus Bank, Akeem Lawal; Country Manager and Area Business Head, West Africa, Mastercard, Dr.Folasade Femi Lawal; Ex Super Eagles Player, Joseph Yobo; and Chairman, Committee of e-Business Industry Heads (CeBIH), Ajibade Laolu-Adewale at the

in Lagos on Saturday

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

FLAG-OFF CEREMONY OF IKUN MILK DAY BY PROMASIDOR IN EKITI STATE...

L-R: Commissioner for Education, Ekiti State, Dr (Mrs) Olabimpe Aderiye; Group Managing Director, Fountain Holdings, Adetunji Tolani; Governor of Ekiti

Corporate Affairs & IDF Director, Promasidor Nigeria, Dr. Eno Udoma-Eniang; and Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Ekiti State, Hon. Ebenezer Boluwade, during the flag-off ceremony of Ikun Milk Day by Promasidor at Ikun-Amure, Moba Local Government, Ekiti State … recently

Minimum Wage Strike Paralyses

Appeal, High Courts Nationwide

Supreme Court continues adjudication as workers shun industrial action

Alex Enumah in Abuja, Wale Igbintade Ajimotokan in Lagos, Hammed Shittu in Ilorin, Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

The indefinite nationwide strike embarked upon by judiciary workers to protest the non-implementation of the N70,000 new national minimum wage and the salary increase for workers under the consolidated public service salary structure paralysed activities at the Court of Appeal and High Courts in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, and other states.

Save for the Supreme Court, all other federal courts in Abuja were under lock and key, with angry Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) members manning gates in their respective states to ensure that no staff or lawyer gained entrance into the court premises.

However, workers at the Supreme Court and National Judicial Council (NJC) had in separate statements said they would not be part of the nationwide strike following efforts by the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, to ensure that their demands were met.

The Supreme Court, in a communique issued at the end of its meeting, explained that its workers came to the conclusion of not joining the industrial action after assessing the issues as well as the efforts of the CJN to meet their demands.

The communique confirmed that

the CJN had already visited the presidency and tabled the workers’ demands in order to get them resolved.

The communique signed by 12 principal officers of the Supreme Court Chapter of JUSUN, led by Chairman, Danladi Nda, said joining the June 2 strike would amount to misplacement of priority and neglect, and would result in exercise in futility.

It stated, “With CJN’s commendable efforts, we owe her our unwavering support in order to get the expected allowances and others paid.

“Lower sister courts’ position on the planned nationwide strike cannot be managed by us in the Supreme Court as it will put the CJN efforts in vain, jeopardy, and swept under the carpet.

“We pray that our colleagues be calm and allow the efforts of the CJN to achieve meaningful results.”

It also hinted that the Supreme Court chapter of JUSUN had commenced discussion with all the federal chapters to see reason to drop the nationwide industrial action for now.

“We urge those insisting to participate in the strike action to be patient and calm and go along with the CJN to achieve the deserved result,” the communique added.

According to some credible sources, the CJN had obtained concrete assurances from the various federal

government agencies she discussed the issue with, and everything would be resolved soon.

In the FCT, at the Court of Appeal, a JUSUN member who did not want his name mentioned told journalists that if the leadership failed to reach an agreement at the end of yesterday, members would have no other option but to enforce the strike at the apex court.

Lawyers, litigants, and some visitors to the various courts were disappointed as they were turned back at the gate by JUSUN members.

Just like the Court of Appeal, the Federal High Court and the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) were also shut down in total compliance with the strike.

In Lagos, judges, lawyers, litigants, and members of the public were left stranded yesterday as the Court of Appeal, Lagos Division, and the Federal High Court were under lock and key due to the ongoing strike by JUSUN.

The gates of both courts, located at Igbosere (Court of Appeal) and Oyinkan Abayomi Drive, Ikoyi

(Federal High Court), were firmly shut, leaving the premises deserted. Judges, court staff, legal practitioners, and litigants who arrived for scheduled hearings were denied access, as business activities within the courts and their surroundings ground to a halt.

Some litigants, who had travelled from distant locations for their cases, lamented the hardship caused by the strike.

“This is very frustrating. I have a matter that has been adjourned multiple times, and now the court

is locked. We are suffering,” said a visibly upset litigant.

Lawyers also expressed frustration, stating that the strike was disrupting legal processes and further clogging the already burdened judicial system. “Access to justice is being denied. This affects not just the courts but the lives and businesses of those who rely on timely court decisions,” a senior lawyer told THISDAY. Likewise, in Kwara State, business activities at the Court of Appeal, Ilorin Division, were yesterday paralysed due to the strike.

NDLEA Seeks Integrated Approach to Tackle Drug Abuse, Mental Health

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) said it was committed to an integrated approach to dealing with challenges of substance use and mental health in the country. This involved supporting private sector organisations to tackle health challenges resulting from substance use.

The move came just as the agency said Nigeria had witnessed a sudden rise in substance use cutting across

Maritime Industry Leaders Canvass

Collective Action to Empower Women

Mary Nnah

The Women in Maritime and Shipping Conference 2025 has sounded a clarion call for collective action to empower women in the maritime industry. The conference, held during the week in Lagos and themed “Charting New Waters: Women Steering Progress in Maritime and Shipping,” brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss the crucial role of women in shaping the maritime sector’s future.

In a stirring goodwill message, Dr. Mrs. Chizoba C. Anyika, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Women in Maritime and Energy Awards Initiative, urged stakeholders to adopt a new compass that points toward inclusive leadership, sustain-

able innovation, and generational investment in women.

She emphasised the maritime industry which carries over 80% of the world’s trade by volume and more than 70% by value cannot afford to ignore the vast potential of women.

Despite the critical role of women in the industry, they comprise only 2% of the world’s seafarers, and fewer than 1% hold executive decision-making roles in shipping. In Africa, the numbers are even more sobering, highlighting the need for urgent action to address the glaring gender disparities in the industry.

Anyika emphasised that the underrepresentation of women in the maritime industry has far-reaching consequences, including a lack of diverse perspectives, limited innovation, and reduced economic growth.

She highlighted the business case for gender equity, citing a recent World Bank report that doubling women’s participation in shipping could unlock over $1.5 trillion in additional global GDP.

Companies with greater gender diversity in executive roles are 21% more likely to outperform competitors on profitability and 27% more likely to have superior long-term value creation.

The conference emphasised the need for collective action to empower women in the maritime industry.

Anyika emphasised that education and training programs, gendersensitive maritime training colleges, and port safety protocols specifically designed for women are crucial for enhancing women’s participation in maritime careers.

all segments of the population, including women.

Director-General of NDLEA, Brigadier General Buba Marwa (rtd), disclosed the position at the official launch of Olive Prime Adventurine, Abuja.

Marwa said there was a need to assist women battling with drug related health challenges.

He lamented that many women involved in drugs were facing stigma, gender-based violence and discrimination, trauma, threat of social exclusion, and fears of family separations, saying they need gender responsive services.

Deputy Director at the Drug Demand Reduction Department of NDLEA, Muhammed Bashir

Ibrahim, who represented the director-general, said the opening of the first only woman mental health and substance use rehabilitation centre in Nigeria was a significant milestone.

According to Marwa, the centre is unique in the sense that it is established to address the dual challenge of mental health and substance use disorder, particularly among the female folk.

He stated, “In recent years, Nigeria has witnessed a sudden rise in substance use cutting across all segments of our population including women.

“As chairman of NDLEA, I have witnessed first-hand the silence and often the invisible struggles of women battling drug addiction many of them are victims of stigma gender-based violence and discrimination, trauma, social exclusion, fears of family separation and lack of gender responsive services.”

Marwa also said setting up the rehabilitation centre had sent a strong message that the challenges and needs of women suffering from substance use disorder and mental health will no longer be overlooked. He commended the vision and commitment of the management of OlivePrime Adventurine for providing a gender sensitive and professionally guided facility, where women could recover and reclaim their lives with dignity.

DG NILDS Hails DG MINILS’ Re-appointment for Second Term

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

The Director General, National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies NILDS, Professor Abubakar Olanrewaju Sulaiman yesterday congratulated the Director General, Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies, Ilorin (MINILS), Comrade Issa Aremu on his welldeserved reappointment for second term in office by President Ahmed Bola Tinubu.

A statement issued on Monday in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital by the DG NILDS, Professor Sulai-

man, signed by his Media Adviser Mohammad Abdulkadri, stated: “Comrade Aremu’s re-appointment as DG MINILS is a testament to his outstanding achievements that have placed the Institute in the National and International lime lights”. Prof. Sulaiman also said the MINILS as a high-performing outfit in inclusive training, gender balance initiatives, institutional linkages and improved programmes on entrepreneurship have rated the DG MINILS, Comrade Aremu for the deserve reappointment by President Tinubu. He advised him to sustain his

impressive Scorecards on Digital Literacy training and infrastructural renewal projects that berthed the construction of the Entrepreneurship Development Centre in 2022. The Director General NILDS therefore urged the Comrade Aremu to see his continuity in office as an opportunity to consolidate on his impressive performances in the areas of impactful Citizenship Engagements, re-engage ment, Ministerial deliverables benchmark Which he exceeded in 2024 from 1,250 to over 3,000 participants trained in Ilorin campus.

State, His Excellency, Abiodun Oyebanji;

ROTARY UNVEILS DISTRICT GOVERNOR NOMINEE…

L-R: District Governor, Rotary Club, District 9111, Dr. Oluwole Kukoyi, his wife, Rev. Olusola Kukoyi; District Governor Nominee(DGN), Bukola Bakare and her husband, Alhaji Lateef Bakare, during the unveiling ceremony of DGN Bakare, in Abeokuta, Ogun State…recently

WAEC: Leakages, Compromises, Logistics Challenges Caused Night Examination

Juliet Akoje in abuja

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has attributed the unusual late conduct of its English Language exam in several states to a leakages, internal compromises, and logistical setbacks which led to some candidates taking the exam into the night.

Speaking during his appearance before the House of Representatives Committee on Basic Education and

Examination Bodies yesterday, WAEC’s Head of National Office, Dr. Amos Josiah Dangut, explained that the council identified leaks and integrity breaches in its English Language paper just three days before the exam.

WAEC officials had failed to attend a scheduled appearance before the Committee on Friday to provide an account of the examination irregularities that disrupted the process for students nationwide.

Osun PDP Hails GSI Survey

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

The ruling party in Osun State, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has warmly welcomed the newly released survey results from Geopolitics Survey International (GSI), describing the findings as a powerful testament to the overwhelming popularity of Governor Ademola Adeleke and the party’s unrivaled grassroots strength across the state.

The PDP noted that the survey, which shows the party commanding 65 per cent of voter preference and Governor Adeleke leading with 66 per cent support, is a reflection of the extraordinary governance performance delivered by the administration since taking office.

“This is not just a number, it is the voice of the Osun people declaring their satisfaction, trust,

and hope in a governor who has consistently prioritized their welfare,” the party stated.

According to the PDP, the 2025 survey results clearly indicate that the party is not only maintaining but expanding its dominance in Osun politics.

“With over 66 per cent support today, and growing daily, we are on track to surpass the 2022 victory margin. We project this figure will rise above 70 per cent before the August 2026 election,” the statement added.

The party emphasised that this sustained momentum confirms what Osun residents have long declared at rallies, town halls, and community engagements that Governor Adeleke is the people’s governor, deeply loved and respected for his accessible leadership, infrastructural strides, and inclusive governance style.

DOA to Host 4th Annual TMT Business Series

Leading commercial law firm

Duale, Ovia & Alex-Adedipe (DOA) has announced the fourth edition of its flagship Technology, Media and Telecommunications (TMT) Business Series, scheduled to take place on Thursday, 5 June 2025, in Lagos State, Nigeria.

This year’s event, according to the company in a statement, said themed “Beyond the Startup Frenzy: Building the Infrastructure for a Digital Nigeria,” marks a strategic shift in the national tech conversation from early-stage enthusiasm and venture capital buzz to the critical building blocks of sustainable digital transformation.

As Nigeria aims to consolidate digital progress and sharpen its global competitiveness, the Business Series will offer a timely platform for deep dialogue, high-level policy engagement

and ecosystem collaboration.

Managing Partner at DOA, Adeleke Alex-Adedipe, said: “The Nigerian technology ecosystem is entering a new era. Innovation is no longer the sole focus, what matters now is scale, sustainability and system-level thinking. This year’s TMT Series is designed to drive practical, cross-sector conversations on how Nigeria can build a truly inclusive and resilient digital economy.”

The statement noted that the 2025 edition will open with a keynote address by the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, who will also feature in a fireside chat reflecting on the structural and policy enablers of long-term growth.

But Dangut told the Committee that the situation escalated because the system had already been compromised. “A lot of things went wrong,”

Use Media

he admitted, suggesting that the leaks triggered a cascade of operational issues.

He said: “In addition to the paper leaks, WAEC encountered

serious logistical problems while attempting to distribute replacement exam papers.

Vehicles transporting the materials to states like Taraba broke down, and in some cases, were denied passage through certain communities, compounding the delivery delays.”

to Promote Peace, Unity, Catholic Church Tells Nigerians

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in abuja

The Catholic Church in Nigeria has advocated the use of mass media to champion peace and unity of the country.

The church said that no one can deny the fact that the country is sharply divided along ethnic and religious lines and that leadership

deficit is a key challenge facing the country. It said that idea of the church collaborating with media practitioners was to populate the media space with positive news while reflecting clarity and the true position of things in the society.

Addressing journalists shortly after a Special Church Service to mark the end of the

Communications Week of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria in Abuja, Chairman of the Social Communications of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) Most Rev. David Ajang, said the media can be used to build bridges of peace and unity in the country.

He also said that one of the most challenging problems facing Nigeria today is that of having the right leadership that will unite and galvanise the population to achieve greatness.

Speaking on the current difficulties in Nigeria, the bishop said that no one can deny the fact that the country is sharply divided along ethnic and religious lines.

FMDA President Seeks Transparent, Digitised Fixed Income Market

The newly elected President, Financial Markets Association of Nigeria (FMDA), Mrs. Anwuli Femi-Pearse, has said one of her priorities will be ensuring that the fixed income market becomes more transparent and digitised for operational efficiency.

Speaking at her swearing-in

ceremony during the 32nd annual general meeting(AGM) of FMDA in Lagos, Mrs. Femi-Pearse, who is the Group Head, Treasury, Assets & Liability Management at Sterling Bank, said equipping fixed income market traders with the right skills, ensuring that bonds and T-Bills trading become more transparent

are some of her immediate priorities. According to her, a lot of progress has been made in entrenching transparency and efficient operations in the forex market, adding that same energy that produced positive results in the forex market would be channeled to the fixed income market during her tenure.

“There has been lot of work done in the past to promote efficiency and transparency in forex operations which helped to stabilize the forex market. In the last few years, we have been able to support forex market stabilization by making the market operations more effective and transparent.”

Aiyedatiwa Flags Off Igbokoda-Okitipupa Road Dualisation

Fidelis David in akure

As part of activities marking his 100 days in office, Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, yesterday flagged off the 27.5km dualisation of the Igbokoda–Okitipupa road.

Speaking at the flag-off

ceremony held at Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area, the governor said the road is a transformative infrastructure project designed to boost connectivity and drive economic development across the Southern Senatorial District. He reaffirmed his commitment to creating an enabling environment for growth, assuring the people, development partners and investors of the state’s readiness to fulfill all requirements needed to position Ondo State as a premier destination for investment, tourism, and improved quality of life.

Governor Aiyedatiwa said the dualisation of the Igbokoda–Okitipupa Township Road is a clear testament to his administration’s commitment to accelerated development and the fulfillment of promises made during the electioneering campaign.

Obasanjo, Abiodun Harp on Selfless Service as Rotary Club Unveils

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has reaffirmed the need for Nigerians to embrace the culture of selflessness in line with the Rotary Club activities to make life meaningful to all.

The former president, who was represented by his wife, Mrs. Bola Obasanjo, stated this during the pioneer convention of Rotary

Club and the unveiling of District Governor-designate of District 9111 held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Abeokuta in Ogun State.

While commending various initiatives of the Rotary Club, which are targeted at uplifting humanity, Obasanjo stated that before anyone goes to bed daily,

“there is need for one to do selfappraisal on how positive one has affected life. “Before you go to bed every day, always take a pause and ask yourself what am I doing for others? What are other people benefitting from me? What am I doing like the Rotary Club to make life more comfortable for others?

“It is not just by word of mouth that the Rotary Club is doing so much to help humanity, it is what is obvious to all, the good work of the outgoing District Governor of Rotary Club, District 9111, Dr. Oluwole Kukoyi, and his wife, Rev Olusola Kukoyi, is another testament to the love of humanity by this special club.”

LG Increases Doctors’ Salaries to N800,000 in Lagos

Segun James

In a bold move reaffirming his administration’s commitment to quality healthcare, the Chairman of Ikoyi-Obalende LCDA, Hon. Fuad Atanda-Lawal, has approved a second upward review of doctors’ salaries, raising them to N800,000

monthly, effective June 2025.

This latest increment represents a 100 per cent increase from the existing N400,000, and a 300 per cent total increase since February 2024, when the doctors’ salaries were first reviewed from N200,000 to N400,000.

According to a statement

released by the council, the decision reflects both an appreciation of the indispensable role healthcare workers play and a strategic step towards retaining medical talent in the local system amid growing emigration pressures.

The chairman said: “Our administration is not only

reconstructing the Senator Oluremi Tinubu Primary Healthcare Centre—we’re rebuilding the very foundation of healthcare delivery in Ikoyi-Obalende. By increasing our doctors’ salaries again, we are reinforcing our belief that a healthy society is a wealthy society.”

Street Project Foundation Fosters Learning, Devt for Kosofe Youths

The second edition of the Youth Legislative Theatre Lab, organised by Street Project Foundation (SPF) in collaboration with Demo.Reset, a programme by Extituto, Colombia, concluded a transformative three-day training programme

in Lagos State. This vibrant gathering empowered young voices and fostered a dynamic cross-cultural exchange, reinforcing SPF’s mission of using creative expression as a catalyst for social change.

According to a statement, on the opening day participants embarked upon interactive exercises on the Art of Persuasive Communication, led by Founder and Lead Visionary of SPF, Rita Ezenwa-Okoro.

Through spirited role-play, they mastered clear expression, decoded the power behind non-verbal cues, and honed the subtle skill of active listening—transforming ordinary conversations into compelling tools for advocacy.

Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE

Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com

08033025611 sms only

Much Ado About Tinubu’s Harmonised Tax Reforms Bills

after initial hiccups and stiff opposition, both the Senate and House of Representatives have passed the harmonized Tax Reforms Bills, now waiting to be transmitted to President BolaTinubu for assent. Adedayo Akinwale reports.

Following the initial controversy generated by the four Tax Reforms Bills of President Bola Tinubu, the House of Representatives last Wednesday passed the harmonised Bills for the third reading.

The tax reform bills submitted to the National Assembly by President Tinubu were read for the first time on the 8th of October, 2024. The bills are: Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, the Nigeria Tax Bill, the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Bill.

However, debates on the bills were put on hold due to the controversy generated by the bills with some Northern lawmakers vehemently kicking against the bills.

The debates on the bills later degenerated into a North/South issue, especially as it regards the sharing formula of Value Added Tax (VAT).

Recall that the National Economic Council (NEC), a body that comprises the 36 state governors and Chaired by Vice President

Kashim Shettima, had urged the president to withdraw the bills for further consultations.

Nevertheless, a defiant Tinubu refused, saying that all concerns should be channeled to the National Assembly.

At plenary last Wednesday, the lawmakers during the Committee of the Whole adopted the recommendations of the House and Senate Conference Committee co-chaired by Hon. James Faleke.

Faleke noted that the Conference Committee met and agreed on all areas of difference in the version passed by both chambers of the National Assembly.

He stated that there were 45 areas of difference in the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill — 12 areas of difference in the Nigeria Revenue Service Bill, nine areas of difference in the Joint Revenue Board Bill and 46 areas of difference in

the Nigeria Tax Bill, adding that all grey areas were resolved ahead of the passage.

While the conference committee agreed to retain the Senate version in some of the clauses, they also retained the House version in some others, making amendments in a few others.

Faleke added that the conference committee agreed on the imposition of a four per cent development levy on the assessable profit of all companies chargeable to tax under Chapters 2 and 3, except small companies and nonresident companies.

They also agreed that the levy shall be collected by the Nigeria Inland Revenue Service and paid into a special account created for the same purpose.

In the sharing formula, the committee agreed that 50 per cent of the tax would go to the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, 15 per cent to the Education Loan Fund (up from three per cent agreed by the House), and eight percent to the Nigeria Information Technology Development Fund.

In the same vein, it was agreed that the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) is to get eight per cent (down from 10 per cent earlier agreed by both chambers), the National Board for Technology Incubation (NBTI) is to get four per cent from the fund, defence and security infrastructure is to get 10 per cent while cyber security fund will get five per cent.

Also, the Social Security Fund, Nigeria Police Trust Fund, and National Sports Development Fund were excluded from the list of beneficiaries passed by the House of Representatives.

The committee also adopted a new clause 158, which imposes a five per cent surcharge on chargeable fossil fuel products provided or produced in Nigeria and shall be collected at the time a chargeable transaction occurs.

NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

As Bayelsa Community Protest Alleged Neglect By Oil Firms

Scores of inhabitants of Egbemo angalabiri community in Ekeremor Local Government area of Bayelsa State have demonstrated over alleged marginalisation and neglect by two oil multinationals.

Thousands of residents from the oil-rich Egbemo Angalabiri community in Ekeremor Local Government Area of Bayelsa State on Thursday staged a peaceful protest accusing Renaissance Africa Energy Company and Oando Plc of marginalisation and neglect.

The demonstrators, made up of youths, elders, and women from the 14-village community, marched to the premises of the two oil firms to voice their grievances, alleging the companies have failed to provide employment opportunities and basic infrastructure despite operating over 100 oil wells and three flow stations in the area.

Carrying placards and chanting solidarity songs, the protesters called on both the Federal and Bayelsa State Governments to intervene and compel the firms to comply with Nigeria’s Local Content Act by hiring qualified professionals and awarding contracts to indigenes of the host community.

Chairman of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), Tarakiri Clan, Engr. Lokiri Lawrence, who led the protest, told newsmen that the community has endured years of neglect and economic exclusion by the oil firms.

“In the past, they claimed our youths were not qualified, but now we have graduates in engineering, marine, geology, law and other

relevant fields. Yet, they have refused to employ them,” Lawrence said. According to him, Egbemo Angalabiri youths also own equipment and marine rentals suitable for oil exploration activities, but the companies

have continued to contract such services to outsiders.

“The youths are jobless, our women are hungry, there’s no pipeborne water, no hospital, and no electricity. Yet, we host major oil operations. We are calling for immediate

redress,” he stressed.

Rights activist and spokesperson for the protesting youths, Benneth Joseph Ebikon, accused the companies of violating the Nigerian Constitution, the Local Content Act, and provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) by ignoring the welfare of their host communities.

“Since Renaissance Africa Energy and Oando Plc took over operations from SPDC and Agip, they have failed to engage the community. The Local Content Act mandates that unskilled jobs and at least 50% of semi-skilled roles in oil operations should go to locals, while 10% of skilled jobs must be allocated to community members. This is not being observed,” Ebikon said.

Other community leaders including Messrs Noro Raphael and Benjamin Bide, stressed that the protest was peaceful and aimed at initiating dialogue with the oil firms. They urged President Bola Tinubu and the relevant authorities to step in and ensure justice is done.

“We are not demanding charity. We want to work. Our professionals should be employed, and others should be given opportunities to learn and earn. We seek peace, not conflict. That is why we chose a peaceful protest,” they said.

Concerted efforts to obtain official responses from Renaissance Africa Energy Company and Oando Plc were unsuccessful aa at press time.

Tinubu

Akpabio

Abass

Diri

LAWYER

TUeSday, JUN e 3, 2025

FPreSideNT Bola

ahmed TiNUBU, GCFr

LAWYER

Administration's Half Term Scorecard

Quotables

columnist

‘The right not to vote, is part of freedom of expression!’. - Dr Reuben Abati, Lawyer, Anchor, Arise TV’s Morning Show

for Wholesome Consideration of Facts in Court’s Exercise of Discretion

‘Inequality causes tension and division, and makes it easy for Politicians to buy votes because people are so hungry - Dr Olisa Agbakoba, SAN, Past President, Nigerian Bar Association

PROF MIKE OZEKHOME, CON, SAN, FCIArb, PH.D. LLD Constitutional Democracy, means a system of government, in which political and governmental power, is defined, limited and shared by a grundnorm called the Constitution, which provides inbuilt checks and balances.

This column seeks to fiercely discuss constitutional, legal and political issues, with a view to strengthening, deepening and widening the plenitude and amplitude of democracy and good governance, without fear or favour.

The writer of this column, Prof Mike Ozekhome, SAN, is a Constitutional Lawyer, Human Rights Activist, Pro-Democracy Campaigner, Notary Public and Motivational Speaker. He co-founded the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), Nigeria’s pioneer human rights league, on October 15, 1987, the Universal defenders of Democracy (UDD), in 1992, and with Chief Gani Fawehinmi and others in 1998, the Joint Action Committee of Nigeria (JACON), to push out the military. In his early days, he lectured at the University of Ife. Prof Ozekhome is an author of many books. He is also a Special Counsel at the International Criminal Court (ICC), at The Hague.

IV CMSA 2025 Business Summit to Explore New Capital Market Opportunities Under Fresh Investment Page V

$2.3m Debt Forgiveness : Former Union Bank Director Testifies in Arik-AMCON Fraud Trial Page V

onikepo braithwaite: editor, jude igbanoi: deputy editor, peter taiwo, steve aya: reporters

The Nigerian Story in Basejè Lalaçe’s Car

Mr Basejè Lalaçe

The story of Nigeria and her States, is like that of Mr Basejè (Yoruba word for Spoiler) Lalaçe (the Hausa word for Spoil), who imported an almost new second-hand car from abroad. It had one or two fundamental problems which appeared to have been fixed before it was exported to Nigeria, and the Owner’s Manual was there in the glove compartment, complete with maintenance details and milestones for the different types of car service appointments, from oil and filter change to the first service, to checks on specific components like the brakes, major service, periodic service and so on. Mr Lalaçe had several drivers, and mostly, they were not particularly skilful drivers; some were reckless, while others were not concerned about the condition of the car - just as long as it moved!

Over the years, Mr Lalaçe failed to continue with the maintenance of the vehicle after the first major service, and eventually the car started breaking down regularly. Each time the car broke down, no matter how many parts were affected and required replacement, Mr Lalaçe would either buy a ‘Tokunbo’ (second hand) part to replace the part that was most seriously affected, or replace only the one which the car couldn’t function without, or simply tell the Mechanic to manage it if he could get away with it! Eventually, aside from the body of the car being battered as a result of a series of accidents, the car engine knocked, amongst other serious faults, including the prior fundamental ones that appeared to have been repaired before the car was imported, and Mr Lalaçe was given a huge bill to overhaul the car to get it back on the road.

The blame for this misfortune was then heaped on Ali, the current driver of the car who was employed months before it finally broke down completely. Of course, everyone ignored/forgot Mr Lalaçe’s total neglect of the car, and the role the string of careless drivers had played, as major contributors to the car’s complete breakdown; they blamed it all on Ali! How could that be?!!!

In this scenario, the car is Nigeria; Mr Lalaçe is successive Governments; the drivers are the various leaders, be it from the First Republic, or the Military, down to the Fourth Republic. Ali is the incumbent, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The story of the car, is also replicated in the case of the States and Governors, lest we forget them as we always do when it comes to accountability and scorecards. Though the car can be fixed, the repairs would be extensive and possibly time consuming, not just an oil change that will only take a few minutes. Obviously, the services of a capable Engineer/ Mechanic is required, or it would be impossible to get the car up and running properly, reasonable fair wear and tear excepted.

The Fourth Republic Interestingly, even previous drivers, who didn’t drive the car properly and were careless with it, have become the greatest critics of Ali! The other day, I couldn’t help but laugh and snigger, when Abubakar Malami, SAN, who goes down in history as one of the worst Attorneys-General of the Federation, joined the circle of critics, after such an inglorious career! Their criticism resembles a variation of the Self-Enhancement Theory in Psychology; where people run others down in order to boost themselves, their self-esteem, or to cover up their own failures, or simply make themselves feel better about themselves. While Nigerians have every right to show their displeasure about the state of the nation, I don’t think that contributors to the failure are in any position to complain or give advice that they themselves didn’t take when they were in office!

One cannot say for sure when the first major service of the car was done, but, by the inception of the Fourth Republic in 1999, the civil service had become a shadow of its former self, corrupt and inefficient; there were hardly any functioning manufacturing industries and Nigeria had become highly dependent on imports, while many institutions like NEPA (National Electric Power Authority, subsequently, Power Holding Company of Nigeria, and now, GenCos, TCN and DisCos) and the Oil Refineries were broken. Over the years, Electricity Generation capacity hadn’t been significantly expanded, despite the population explosion and consequent rise in demand for electricity, nor were the existing facilities properly maintained. Even at the time late President Shagari was campaigning for his second term in 1983, he promised electricity for all towns and villages, which means that, even as at then, electricity supply was inadequate. Nigeria had been importing fuel since the 1970s, as right from the start, her refineries’ capacity had never been enough to satisfy the rising demand for fuel.

Fuel subsidy was introduced during the regime of General Obasanjo in 1977 or so, to control the price of fuel in light of the sharp increase in oil prices, and this subsidy policy was subsequently converted into a criminal enterprise from which government officials and business men made obscene illegal profits at the expense of Nigeria, as we were also subsidising neighbouring African countries since our fuel was being smuggled out and sold cheaply to them.

Rule of law? That didn’t really exist under the Military, and unfortunately, it hasn’t fared too much better during the Fourth Republic. The 1999

“…..I see President Tinubu as one who is too smart and experienced to be deceived by insincere glowing reports of ‘Yes Men’. He also said, ‘power isn’t served à la carte’; now that he has it, President Tinubu must appreciate the opportunity he was able to get to serve, a feat he was able to achieve as a result of his struggles to get there, by putting more effort into governance, and ensuring that the Governors do the same. Many believe that, he can do better. As an Economist by training, I can understand some of this administration’s initiatives, but on behalf of Nigerians and their current living conditions, my overall mark, can only hover between a P7 and C6”

Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended)(the Constitution) and the laws of the land, are often observed in their breach by Government and the people.

President Tinubu: Two Years On And so, when we are looking at President Tinubu’s 2 years scorecard, we cannot look at it in isolation, without taking into consideration the context of Mr Lalaçe’s broken down car, and all that needs to be done to repair the country. President Tinubu’s performance comprises of ‘the good, the bad and the ugly’. I usually use the things that affect the everyday life of the people, to make my evaluations that creates my scorecard. Today, I find myself writing similar things to what I wrote in the past about Government’s scorecard. The driver before Ali was Yinka (President Buhari).

In President Buhari’s January 2018 new year message, he had stated inter alia that, as at December 8, 2017, 5,155 MW of Electricity had been delivered to consumers, the highest amount that had ever been achieved. When I googled for an update on this information, the AI Overview stated that as at May 2023, Nigeria’s power generation capacity reached 5,313 MW, and on May 31, 2025, “Nigeria’s power grid recorded a peak generation of 5,372.30 MW at 4pm….”. This means that there has been no significant improvement in power generation, in the first two years of the Tinubu administration, and the very low amount of electricity being generated is shameful. See for example, South Africa, with a population of less than 70 million, over 58,000 MW of electricity is generated! What’s Nigeria’s excuse? Though the national grid has collapsed a good number of times since the inception of the Tinubu administration, the records show that in the first 2 year period of President Jonathan, President Buhari and President Tinubu, it has

collapsed the least number of times under President Tinubu. Yet, it’s still an F9 in the electricity sector. While Ali has a better understanding of cars, and is a more skilful driver than his predecessor, Yinka; he also has more focused goals, and some may say President Tinubu is recording better achievements in the area of the Economy, the effects of some which may not be immediately felt, things still seem pretty grim for the average Nigerian - this is one of the bad and ugly parts. This has been attributed to bringing an end to the criminal fuel subsidy scam with its removal, and the simultaneous unification of the Nigerian foreign exchange regime, carried out without any proper preparations for the inflationary after effects on the people, which plunged Nigerians into severe economic hardship. Food prices are still relatively high, and majority of Nigerians are still finding it hard to survive. The high level of corruption, unemployment, lack of accountability and exorbitant cost of governance, are also part of the bad and ugly. The common man is not happy with this administration and indeed, APC, as their living conditions have suffered rather badly since they took over the reins of leadership in 2015. However, Nigeria that was declared the poverty capital of the world in 2018, with highest number of people living in abject poverty, has since moved up during the Tinubu administration. For this, in this sector, we can move from F9 to a low pass of between P8 and P7. When Nigerians start to see the positive impact of the economic reforms in their daily lives, then the score will improve.

The Security situation in the country, which seemed to be improving during the first year of the Tinubu administration, also appears to have deteriorated again, at least

in some parts of the country. See Section 14(2)(b) of the Constitution, on the security and welfare of Nigerians being the primary purpose of government. Though incidents of mass kidnapping seem to have declined, newer terror groups such as Lakurawa have emerged, and many are still being slaughtered, particularly in North Central zone. Even though President Tinubu’s approval of the establishment of Forest Guards, is a step in the right direction, as Nigeria’s expansive forests have become a haven for criminal activities - terrorists live there and most kidnap victims are kept in the forests, I am unable to give the Tinubu administration a pass mark for security. From an F9 in the Buhari administration, Nigeria is still hovering between an F9 and P8, as far as security is concerned. So much more needs to be done.

There is still a huge Infrastructure deficit, and for instance, regularly, we see videos in which communities showcase their dilapidated roads which haven’t received attention in decades. And so, there is the argument that the infrastructure development going on in Nigeria, is one of ‘eye service’, in which it is only in the most visible areas that some improvement is noticeable. The new Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, has also generated a great deal of controversy. While some argue that it would have made more sense and cost much less to repair all the existing major connecting highways and roads in Nigeria first, instead of embarking on this new project which may not be completed in the foreseeable future, in which the bidding process was opaque and the cost of completion, allegedly inflated, Government has insisted that this coastal highway is a game changer that will boost job creation and economic growth. This is left to be seen.

There is an improvement in the Health Sector, and I can’t help but feel that the current Minister of Health, Professor Ali Pate could do much more if he received necessary, adequate funding. There has been a shortfall between the budget allocation for healthcare and the actual amount received. The Nigerian Doctor-Patient ratio of about 1:4,000/5,000 instead of the WHO’s recommendation of 1:600, is extremely low. Due to the harsh working conditions, many Doctors have left the country to seek greener pastures. Additionally, the less privileged are also having serious challenges, as they cannot afford to pay the bills of even Government Hospitals, and price of medication is prohibitive. Unfortunately, even if we give Professor Pate A3 for effort, he needs more than the P8 support of Government to achieve better results.

The educational objectives listed in Section 18 of the Constitution, are far from being achieved. Nigeria has over 18 million out-of-school children, possibly the highest in the world. President Tinubu’s administration has instituted the ‘DOTS’ Policy to overhaul the Education Sector in Nigeria. Millions of out-of-school have already benefited from this programme; there are also Teacher Training Programmes and the NELFUND Student Loan Scheme for indigent students attending Tertiary institutions. Again, even if we give the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, C4 for effort, he also requires more than the P8 support of Government to achieve optimum results.

Conclusion

Though President Tinubu’s administration, in pushing his Renewed Hope Agenda may have recorded some positives, the truth of the matter is that, their performance still leaves a lot to be desired. The performance of many Governors, is below par, and this, particularly that of the APC Governors who belong to the same party as the President and should have some type of cohesive joint agenda, necessarily reduces President Tinubu’s overall score. Apart from a handful of States, we don’t know what most Governors are doing. From the point of view of the masses, if they are not enjoying a decent dose of security and welfare, nor are they seeing enough dividends of democracy, they won’t believe that an administration is doing well, whether or not the administration has taken ‘bold’ steps to reform the economy for the benefit of all and so on. The living conditions of today, which are extremely harsh, must necessarily be a determinant of the scorecard. The truth must be told, so that Government will see things in the right perspective and do more of the needful.

Unfortunately, instead of the truth being told, we have a mounting political unification driven by politicians’ self-interest and sycophancy, the height of which we are seeing with the mass defections to the ruling APC, not because of any ideology or APC’s wonderful performance, but to keep and get positions, and to make money. Even though we all love a bit of flattery here and there, I see President Tinubu as one who is too smart and experienced to be deceived by insincere glowing reports of ‘Yes Men’. He also said, ‘power isn’t served à la carte’; now that he has it, President Tinubu must appreciate the opportunity he was able to get to serve, a feat he was able to achieve as a result of his struggles to get there, by putting more effort into governance, and ensuring that the Governors do the same. As an Economist by training, I can understand some of this administration’s initiatives, but on behalf of Nigerians and their current living conditions, my overall mark, can only hover between a P7 and C6. onikepo

Need for Wholesome Consideration of Facts in Court’s Exercise of Discretion

Facts

The Appellant filed an action at the High Court of Sokoto State in Suit No. 22/48/2007, seeking a declaration of title to a parcel of land amongst other reliefs against the Respondent. After the suit was filed, the counsel for the Appellant did nothing to further the prosecution of the suit and this led to the striking out of the suit for want of diligent prosecution on 31st April 2008.

Counsel for the Appellant applied for the relistment of the suit and the suit was relisted by the order of the trial court in the same 2008. Again, the Appellant did not take any further steps towards the prosecution of the relisted suit and on 5th May 2011, the suit was dismissed for lack of diligent prosecution.

About 15 months after the suit was dismissed, the Appellant filed an appeal at the Court of Appeal with leave of the Court of Appeal. The record of the trial court was transmitted to the Court of Appeal on 7th December 2012. Following the entry of the appeal and the failure of the Appellant to file his brief thereafter, the Respondent filed an application on 31st October 2013 for the dismissal of the appeal for want of prosecution. The Appellant reacted by filing an application for enlargement of time within which to file the Appellant’s brief of argument and to deem the brief already filed as properly filed and served. The Court of Appeal refused the Appellant’s application and proceeded to hear and grant the Respondent’s application for dismissal of the appeal for want of prosecution. Consequently, the Court of Appeal dismissed the appeal. Dissatisfied, the Appellant appealed to the Supreme Court.

Issue for Determination

The Supreme Court reformulated the issue for determination as follows: Whether the lower court was right in dismissing the Appellant’s appeal.

Arguments

Counsel for the Appellant argued that the Court of Appeal did not exercise its discretion in the interest of justice in the face of the prevailing circumstances of the case, particularly since the cause of the delay was not from the Appellant. Counsel also argued that it is settled law that where there are two motions, one for the dismissal or striking out of proceedings for want of prosecution and the other for the extension of time within which to regularise the proceedings, a court of law and equity ought to grant the latter in the interest of justice. Counsel submitted that instead of dismissing the appeal, the Court of Appeal could have remedied the situation by compensating the Respondent with an award of cost and this would have served the ends of justice.

Counsel for the Appellant also submitted that there was no doubt that the very reason for the Appellant’s failure to file

Before their lordships emmanuel akomaye agim

Haruna Simon Tsammani

Stephen Jonah adah

Jamilu yammama Tukur

Mohammed Baba Idris Justices, Supreme Court SC/330/2017

aLHaJI BaSHIR aBuBaKaR KOKO

Between

And

aLHaJI daN IGe HORO

aPPeLLaNT

ReSPONdeNT

“...whenever there is an opportunity to determine a case on its merit, the court should not succumb to the temptation of hastily determining it because of delay in prosecuting the case.”

(Lead Judgement delivered by Honourable Mohammed Baba Idris, JSC)

his Brief of Argument at the Court of Appeal on time was purely a mistake of counsel which should not be visited on the Appellant.

In response, counsel for the Respondent submitted that the exercise of the court’s discretion is uncontrolled by judgement or conscience of others but by the way the court rationally perceives the particular circumstance of each case. Counsel argued that the principle that mistake of counsel should not be visited on litigants must be balanced with the need to obey rules of court and for the court not to condone inordinate delay or

“….. if the Court of Appeal had given wholesome consideration to all the facts before it in the exercise of its discretion, it would have known that the justice that would have been best served would be by allowing the parties to present their case to be determined on the merit….where facts and circumstances are presented to the court from which the court can consider and then go ahead to exercise its discretion, it should be guided by law, justice and common sense”

pellant had filed an application for enlargement of time within which to file his Brief of Argument and by Order 7 Rule 10(1) of the Court of Appeal Rules, 2011 under which the Appellant brought the said application, there was a clear discretionary power of the Court of Appeal to exercise its inherent powers to the doing of anything to which the rules apply, of course by considering the good and substantial reasons set before it.

The Court referred to paragraph 4(d) and (e) in support of the Appellant’s motion for enlargement of time to file the Appellant’s brief of argument, in which the Appellant attributed the failure to file the Appellant’s brief to the omission of his Counsel. The Apex Court held that clearly, the Appellant had no part in the delay to file the Appellant’s brief as this was solely the fault of his Counsel, hence, the mistake of the Counsel should not be visited on the Appellant, and neither should the Appellant be made to bear the consequences of the action of his Counsel.

lack of diligent prosecution from counsel. Reliance was placed on the case of IYAWE & ORS v MENE (2014) LPELR -22611.

Court’s Judgement and Rationale

The Supreme Court held that one overriding principle in the exercise of discretion by a court is to maintain a balance of justice bearing in mind the parties rights and a court’s exercise of its discretion without averting its mind to a material consideration is just as bad as its exercising it on a wrong principle.

The Apex Court held that courts are always advised to tilt towards substantial justice and avoid technical justice, and whenever there is an opportunity to determine a case on its merit, the court should not succumb to the temptation of hastily determining it because of delay in prosecuting the case.

The Court referred to its decision in OLATUBOSUN v TEXACO (NIG) PLC & ANOR (2012) LPELR – 7805 (SC).

The Court noted that the Ap-

The Apex Court held that it was clear from the Record of Appeal that if the Court of Appeal had given wholesome consideration to all the facts before it in the exercise of its discretion, it would have known that the justice that would have been best served would be by allowing the parties to present their case to be determined on the merit, and it would have tilted more to grant the application for enlargement of time sought by the Appellant to file his Brief of Argument and proceeded to determine the appeal on the merit. The Apex Court held that where facts and circumstances are presented to the court from which the court can consider and then go ahead to exercise its discretion, it should be guided by law, justice and common sense. The Court held that indeed each posited mistake or inadvertence of counsel on the face of it would not without more guarantee a favourable consideration of the application but when viewed within circumstances exculpating in content, then the judicial and judicious tackling by the court is to bend favourably for the applicant. The Apex Court found that since the Appellant’s brief was already filed in the court at the time the Respondent was clamouring for the dismissal of the appeal, the Court of Appeal would have, in the interest of doing substantial justice, given the Appellant a favourable consideration for his brief to be regularised and the matter determined on the merit once and for all. The Supreme Court held that the Court of Appeal was thus, wrong in dismissing the Appellant’s appeal.

Appeal Allowed. Order made for the hearing of the Appellant’s appeal on its merit at the Court of Appeal.

Representation

J. Agim, SAN with A. A. Owurong, O. C. Atuegbu, U. U. Ufoinde and D. M. Adi, for the Appellant. M. Nuhu for the Respondent.

In the Supreme Court of Nigeria Holden at abuja On Friday, the 10th day of January, 2025

Honourable Mohammed Baba Idris, JSC

CMSA 2025 Business Summit to Explore New Capital Market Opportunities Under Fresh Investment

Stories by Steve Aya

As anticipation builds for the 2025 Annual Business Summit of the Capital Market Solicitors Association (CMSA), excitement surged further this week following an official press conference confirming details of the high-profile event. The Summit is scheduled for Wednesday, June 25, 2025, and will take place at the Lagos Oriental Hotel.

Themed “Investment and Securities Act 2025: Innovations and Opportunities in the Nigerian Capital Market”, this year’s Summit is especially timely. It comes just months after the passage of the landmark Investment and Securities Act 2025 (ISA), which repeals the 2007 legislation and introduces sweeping reforms aimed at repositioning Nigeria’s capital market for long-term growth.

Speaking to Journalists, CMSA Chairman, Mr Odiaka Vincent Iweze, emphasised the Summit’s relevance to Nigeria’s economic future. “The Investment and Securities Act 2025 reflects global best practices. It strengthens

investor protection, enhances regulatory oversight, and opens up broader participation - particularly in the fast-evolving digital assets space”, he said.

According to Iweze, the new law presents a defining moment for the capital market. He highlighted CMSA’s ongoing commitment since its inception in 2001 to legal advocacy, regulatory reform, and promoting excellence in Nigeria’s financial services sector. “We are gathering stakeholders to analyse what

this legislation means for the market and how best to implement it”, he added. The Chairman of the ABS Planning Committee, Miss Simisola Eyisanmi, shared further details. She noted that the 2025 Summit, the Association’s flagship event, will convene a broad mix of industry professionals including Lawyers, Regulators, and Investment Bankers. “They will debate key provisions of the Act, examine growth opportunities, and help chart the next phase

of our market’s development,” she said.

Among the event highlights are a fire-side chat and Panel discussions focused on “Reforms, Innovations, and Opportunities under the Investment and Securities Act 2025”. These sessions are expected to spark high-level dialogue and generate practical insights, with seasoned experts already confirmed to speak.

Participation in the Summit is free, but requires pre-registration.

Miss Eyisanmi acknowledged the role of sponsors in making this possible, thanking CMSA’s member firms and corporate partners for their support. “We’re grateful for their generosity and continued commitment to our vision”, she said.

Miss Mabel Okereke, Secretary of CMSA, also highlighted the association’s strategic role in contributing to the drafting and advocacy of the new Act.

“Many of the recommendations from last year’s summit were

adopted in the final version of the ISA 2025,” she revealed, underscoring the summit’s influence on national policy. As Nigeria seeks to deepen its capital markets and embrace new financial technologies, the CMSA 2025 Business Summit arrives at a critical juncture. Stakeholders across the financial ecosystem are expected to seize the opportunity to shape the evolving regulatory landscape and unlock the full potential of the reformed market.

$2.3m Debt Forgiveness: Former Union Bank Director Testifies in Arik-AMCON Fraud Trial

A former Group Executive Director of Union Bank Plc, Mr Austine Obigwe, has revealed in court how he wrote off a $2.3 million debt owed to his private firm, Staal, by Arik Air. Obigwe gave the testimony before the Lagos State Special Offences Court in Ikeja, appearing as a prosecution witness in the high-profile corruption trial involving former Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) boss, Ahmed Kuru, and four others.

Obigwe, who left Union Bank in 2009, explained under crossexamination that the debt arose in 2011 and was later written off due to the airline’s operational difficulties. “I am not interested in collecting it. I wrote it off when I discovered that Arik Air started having challenges”, he told the court, signalling a shift from an earlier stance where he portrayed the airline as financially sound. Pressed further, Obigwe described Arik Air’s operations as “irresponsible, badly run, and

immoral”, even as he admitted having a personal relationship with the airline’s Founder, Sir Johnson Arumemi-Ikhide. He confirmed that the two were Church members and remained close, although no longer in formal business dealings.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has charged Kuru, Arik Air CEO, Captain Roy Ilegbodu, former Receiver Manager Kamilu Omokide, Union Bank of Nigeria Plc, and Super Bravo

61 year old Farmer Sentenced to 14 Years

for Attempted Sexual Assault on Daughter

A Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court sitting in Ikeja on Wednesday sentenced a 61-yearold farmer, Abayomi Abraham, to 14 years imprisonment for the attempted sexual assault of his 15-year-old biological daughter.

Justice Rahman Oshodi delivered the sentence, after the Defendant entered a guilty plea to an amended one-count charge of attempted sexual assault by penetration. The plea came as part of a plea bargain agreement, with the Lagos State prosecution.

Abraham was initially arraigned on February 21, 2024, on a four-count charge that included defilement, sexual assault by penetration, attempt to procure an abortion, and indecent treatment of a child. He had pleaded not guilty at the time. However, during proceedings on May 26, the prosecuting counsel, Ms Bukola Okeowo, informed the court that the Defendant had opted for a plea bargain. The agreement led to an amendment of the charges, with Abraham now facing a lesser charge under Section 272 of the Criminal Law

of Lagos State, 2015. In his ruling, Justice Oshodi stated that the court was satisfied that Abraham was mentally and legally competent to enter an informed and voluntary plea. The Defendant, he noted, had acknowledged understanding the nature of the charge and the consequences of his plea, and confirmed he was acting on sound legal advice.

“You have pleaded guilty to the offence of attempted sexual assault by penetration contrary to Section 262 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State”. the Judge said. “I have accepted your plea and convicted you accordingly.”

Justice Oshodi condemned the breach of trust involved in the case, emphasising the seriousness of the offence. “The survivor is your biological daughter, 15 years old at the time. You were meant to be her protector and guardian, but, instead, you violated that sacred trust in the most despicable manner possible”, he said.

The Judge reminded the convict that he originally faced more serious charges, some of

which carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. While acknowledging the Defendant’s remorse and the fact that the guilty plea spared the survivor the trauma of testifying, he stressed that these mitigating factors did not lessen the severity of the crime. Abraham was sentenced to 14

years’ imprisonment, with the term to be counted from August 31, 2022 - the date of his remand.

The court also ordered that he be listed in the Lagos State Sex Offenders Register in accordance with Sections 33 and 38 of the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency Law of 2021.

Limited with conspiracy, stealing, and abuse of office. All five Defendants have pleaded not guilty to the six-count charge.

Justice Mojisola Dada has granted bail to each Defendant in the sum of N20 million, with one surety required in the same amount. The proceedings form part of a broader investigation into AMCON’s handling of toxic assets, particularly as they relate to distressed companies such as Arik Air.

Obigwe also confirmed that he began working as a Consultant for Arik Air shortly after leaving Union Bank. His role included participating in a 2009 inspection of 26 Arik aircrafts, during which Lufthansa certified them airworthy. “I had no reason to doubt Lufthansa’s evaluation”, he said, defending his previous dealings with the airline.

During his tenure at Union Bank, Obigwe claimed Arik Air had not defaulted on its loans, and there were no reported

issues from other banks. However, he denied knowledge of a letter dated April 23, 2009, in which AMCON reportedly alerted Union Bank about a N46.11 billion debt owed by the airline, despite overseeing the Arik account at the time. On managing non-performing loans, Obigwe explained that banks could either restructure, transfer, or enforce collateral on troubled accounts. He also agreed that Union Bank's eventual decision to transfer Arik’s debt to AMCON was justified, given the Government’s mandate for AMCON to absorb bad loans and stabilise the financial sector.

The court observed that Obigwe’s ongoing consultancy with Arik Air shortly after leaving his senior position at Union Bank could raise conflictof-interest concerns, particularly since he maintained close ties with the company’s Promoter. The trial is set to resume on June 4, 2025.

Informed Consent in Nigeria’s Healthcare System: A Silent Crisis Undermining Patients’ Rights

Oluwajomiloju Oluwatimilehin Ojo

Informed consent and patient autonomy, are fundamental principles of medical ethics. They are aimed at ensuring that patients are involved in decisions about their own health. However, in the Nigerian healthcare system, the reality of these rights is far from ideal. Legal and socio-legal barriers continue to undermine the attainment of these rights, resulting in a silent crisis that affects the most vulnerable in society.

Informed consent means a patient must be given all relevant

information regarding medical treatment, including the risks options and outcomes, before agreeing to or refusing treatment.

Autonomy, on the other hand, means the ability of a patient to make decisions about their own health based on personal values and beliefs, without external influence or coercion. These rights are recognised in medical ethics and international law, but in Nigeria, their practical implementation is constrained. The Nigerian healthcare system faces challenges in balancing patient autonomy and the traditional model of medical

paternalism, where doctors make decisions on behalf of patients often without sufficient consultation. This approach ignores the legal and ethical need for patients to make informed decisions. It undermines trust in the system, and strips individuals of their right to control what happens to their bodies.

Patients rights are not limited to treatment decisions. They include the right to privacy, the right to information, the right to quality care, and freedom from discrimination and degrading treatment. Yet, these rights are often overlooked due to weak legal

enforcement lack of awareness and deeply rooted cultural practices. In Nigeria, the concept of autonomy is shaped by social structures. In a patriarchal society, women in particular, face difficulties in exercising autonomy over their medical and reproductive health. Decisions about family planning and childbirth, are often made by husbands, healthcare providers or religious leaders, leaving the woman without a voice. This is not just a violation of rights, but a reflection of systemic oppression.

Oluwajomiloju Oluwatimilehin Ojo, Law Student, Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti

L-R: Viyon Ojo; Chair Planning Committee, Simisola Eyisanmi; Chairman CMSA, Odiaka Vincent Iweze; and Secretary, CMSA, Mabel Okereke

Lagos State Judiciary

Tinubu Administration's Half Term Scorecard

It is exactly halfway into HE President Bola Ahmed Adekunle Tinubu’s four-year tenure, and there have been mixed feelings about the impact of his administration’s policies and style of governance. even public perception, is divided. How well has the Renewed Hope agenda been implemented? Have President Tinubu’s economic policies made any positive impact on the country, since he took office? Has security improved? Has the electricity sector received any significant attention? How has the fight against corruption fared? What is the roadmap for the remaining two years of President Tinubu’s tenure? Sunday Dare; Dr Sam Amadi; okechukwu Nwaguma; Haruna Yahaya Poloma and Emeka Ejikonye make a critical assessment of President Tinubu’s administration two years on

President Tinubu: A Synopsis of His Administration’s Achievements Thus Far Sunday Dare

Some Key Achievements and Others in Progress

Removal of Fuel Subsidies and Termination of Multiple Foreign Exchange Systems: This, Tinubu said, “had constituted a noose around the economic jugular of our nation and impeded our economic development and progress”.

Increased Government Revenues: Aggregate government revenues more than doubled, increasing by over N9.1 trillion in the first half of 2024, compared to the first half of 2023.

Ongoing Major Infrastructure Projects:

These include roads, bridges, railways, power, oil and gas developments, notably the LagosCalabar Coastal Highway and SokotoBadagry Highway projects. Increased Oil Production: Oil production has increased to 1.7million barrels per day, and two Foreign Direct Investments of over $500m have been signed.

“Under President Tinubu’s leadership, Nigeria is turning the corner. From stabilising the Naira and curbing inflation, to reducing debt burdens and expanding access to education and health, the administration is delivering bold reforms with real results. With improved security, regional inclusion, anti-corruption action, and institutional rebuilding, Nigeria’s comeback story is not yet complete — but it is firmly underway”

Compressed Natural Gas Initiative: Launched to power the transportation sector and reduce costs. Tinubu said, “This will save over N2 trillion a month, being used to import PMS and AGO”.

Student Loan Scheme: Approval of over N95.6bn to Nigerian students through the Student Loan Scheme. Six hundred thousand youth have benefited.

Consumer Credit Corporation: Established with over N200 billion “to help Nigerians acquire essential products without the need for immediate cash payments, making life easier for millions of households”.

Digital and Creative Enterprises: Empowerment of young people, creating millions of IT and technical jobs.

Skill-Up Artisans Programme: Introduction of the Nigerian Youth Academy and the National Youth Talent Export Programme.

Livelihood Support: The release of over N570 billion to the 36 States to expand livelihood support for their citizens, while 600,000 nano-businesses have benefitted from the administration’s nano-grants.

Reduction in Revenue to Debt Service Ratio: Reduced from 97% to 68% in the last 13 months.

Job Creation: Creation of 240,000 jobs through 10 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises.

National Minimum Wage: Signing into law the new National Minimum Wage of N70,000, and the payments of N1 billion each to large manufacturers.

Removal of Tariffs and Import Duties: On rice, wheat, maize, sorghum, drugs, and other pharmaceutical and medical supplies for the next six months.

Incentives to Farmers: To increase food production at affordable prices.

Procurement of Mechanised Farming Equipment: Provision of equipment such as tractors and planters, worth billions of Naira from the United States, Belarus, and Brazil. 10k tractors of which 2k since arrived and distributed.

Increment and implementation of the NYSC allowances from N33,000 to N77,000. The IMF Debt Clearance: Nigeria has cleared its $1.61 billion debt to the IMF, exiting from the fund’s list of indebted countries.

Key Gains

President Tinubu’s Second Anniversary Fiscal and Monetary Gains

• External Reserves rose by $6 billion to $40.19 billion, boosting confidence and stability.

• Trade Surplus hit $13.17 billion, showing strong export performance.

• Portfolio Investments surged to $13.35 billion — a clear vote of confidence in Nigeria’s economy.

• Gas Exports jumped 48.3% to $8.66 billion

• Non-oil exports reached $7.46 billion, a sign of increasing diversification.

• Balance of Payments Surplus of $6.83 billion in 2024 – first in three years.

• Naira Stabilisation through deregulation of the FX market and forex subsidy removal by President Tinubu.

• FX Reserves rose by $364 million in two

President Bola Tinubu, GcFR, Vice President, Kashim Shettima, GcoN

Tinubu Administration's Half Term Scorecard

weeks before the MPC meeting in April 2025.

• External Buffers now cover 7.6 months of imports.

• Sovereign Sukuk Repayment: Nigeria fully repaid its first N100 billion Sukuk issued in 2017.

• Tax Reforms are underway; the Tax Reform Bill will soon be sent to the President for assent.

• Debt Servicing: Dropped from 95% to 65% of revenue, freeing up resources for capital and social spending.

• Improved Fiscal Space: Revenue to debt servicing ratio now at 45%, easing pressure on public finances.

Inflation and Economic Growth

• Headline Inflation dropped to 23.71% in April, from 24.23% in March – the sharpest decline in over a year.

• Month-on-Month Inflation decelerated for the second straight month in 2024.

• GDP Growth: Nigeria recorded the fastest economic growth in a decade in 2024.

• World Bank projects 3.6% growth for Nigeria in 2025. III. Social Investment and Human Capital Revenue: President Tinubu has opened up Nigeria’s fiscal space with increased internally generated revenue from FIRS (N21.3 trillion) and Customs. FAAC monthly allocation to State Governments has increased by over 62%, freeing up resources for States to develop.

Youth and Education

• NELFUND Student Loans: Over 600,000 students have benefitted; nearly N75 billion disbursed to date.

• National Cash Transfer Programme: 5.7 million vulnerable households have benefitted; N25 billion budgeted in 2025.

Health and Social Welfare

• Primary Healthcare: 37 million Nigerians accessed Primary Healthcare Centres in Q1 2025.

• Six Cancer Centres to be established, of which three are ready for commissioning in June. 2025

• Over 1,000 Primary Health Care Centres have been revitalised with 5,000 undergoing revitalisation currently.

• Over 4,000 women have benefited from President Tinubu’s approved Free Caesarean Section surgeries for all pregnant women.

• Dialysis – heavily subsidised cost by the FG. Regional Equity and Inclusive Development Creation of Regional Development Commissions. Every geopolitical zone now has a dedicated commission:

• South West Development Commission (SWDC)

• North West Development Commission (NWDC)

• North Central Development Commission (NCDC)

• North East Development Corporation. NEDC

• South East Development Commission (SEDC)

• NDDC – Niger Delta Development Commission

Local Government Autonomy in Motion

• Legislative and policy push for LG autonomy backed by President Tinubu.

• Empowering local governments to drive grassroots development.

Security

• Combat Success: 15,543 insurgents neutralised nationwide in the first two years.

• Surrenders: 124,408 fighters of Boko Haram and ISWAP surrendered within the same period. Anti-Corruption and Rule of Law EFCC Convictions and Asset Recovery:

• In 2024, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) secured a record-breaking 4,111 convictions, marking its most successful year since inception.

• The EFCC recovered over N364 billion, along with significant amounts in foreign currencies, including $214.5 million, £54,318.64, and €31,265

Largest Asset Recovery:

• In December 2024, the EFCC achieved its single largest asset recovery with the final forfeiture of an estate in Abuja measuring 150,500 square metres and containing 753 units of duplexes and other apartments.

• Final Forfeiture and handover of estate to the Ministry of Housing completed by May, 2025

Summary Narrative

Under President Tinubu’s leadership, Nigeria is turning the corner. From stabilising the Naira and curbing inflation, to reducing debt burdens and expanding access to education and health,

the administration is delivering bold reforms with real results. With improved security, regional inclusion, anti-corruption action, and institutional rebuilding, Nigeria’s comeback story is not yet complete — but it is firmly underway.

Policy Outcomes and Benefits to the People

Benefits to the People, with data-backed achievements that directly impact

Everyday Nigerian:

Minimum Wage Reform

• Federal civil servants now earn N70,000, a major boost from the previous national minimum wage.

Youth Empowerment: NYSC monthly stipend increased from N33,000 to N77,000, boosting youth morale and spending power.

Student Support through NELFUND

• Over N70 billion was disbursed in soft education loans.

• Over 600,000 students have benefited.

• Loans cover school fees and living stipends, targeting equitable access to education.

Transport Relief via CNG Initiative

• Free CNG kits distributed to thousands of commercial drivers.

• CNG buses rolled out in partnership with State Governments.

• Transport costs dropping significantly in pilot States.

• CNG Campus Shuttle Scheme introduced at Federal Universities.

Revenue Boost to States

Federation Account Allocation to States has grown by 60%, enabling more local development projects.

Higher Education Stability

• N50 billion released to end ASUU strikes.

• No industrial action by ASUU in 2 years – the longest period of academic stability in a decade.

Primary Health Centres (PHCs)

• 1,000+ PHCs revitalised nationwide.

• An additional 5,500 PHCs undergoing upgrade under FG’s Renewed Hope Health Agenda.

Specialist Health Infrastructure

• 6 new cancer treatment centres are under development – 3 fully ready.

• Free dialysis services in pilot tertiary hospitals – heavily subsidised across others.

Free Maternal Health Services

• Over 4,000 women have undergone free cesarean sections under the Presidential Maternal Health Initiative.

Expanded Health Insurance Coverage

• The number of insured Nigerians

“Rather than demonstrate a commitment to the pressing issues of governance, this administration appears preoccupied with securing power in 2027”

increased from 16 million to 20 million within 2 years.

• NHIA reforms are ongoing to widen coverage and affordability.

Palliative Measures for Vulnerable Households

• N75 billion in palliative funds disbursed to States and LGs for food distribution and cash transfers.

• Millions of Nigerians received direct cash support during the fuel subsidy transition.

Agriculture: 10k tractors from Belarus. 2k arrived. 40% drop in food prices across the country.

Job Creation and Skills Training

Launch of 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme:

• Over 150,000 Nigerians are being trained in software development, tech support, and data analysis.

• Targeting employment and freelancing in the global digital economy.

Housing for All

• Renewed Hope Cities launched in 7 locations across Nigeria.

• Pilot phase: Over 20,000 affordable housing units are under construction.

Agricultural Support and Food Security

• Distribution of N200 billion in loans to farmers and agro-processors.

• Large-scale release of grains and fertilisers to cushion food inflation.

Digital Economy Empowerment

• Over 2 million Nigerians are now connected to new digital infrastructure including community broadband hubs and public Wi-Fi projects.

Anti-Corruption and Rule of Law

1. Anti -corruption

• A special investigative panel uncovered wide-scale abuses tracing over 753 properties with forfeiture proceedings completed.

2. Fiscal Sanity in MDAs

• Ongoing audits launched into over 200 government-owned enterprises, leading to the recovery of unremitted revenues.

3. Digital Procurement and Budgeting

• Rollout of e-procurement systems across Federal MDAs.

Sunday Dare, CON, Special Adviser to the President of Nigeria on Media and Public Communications

Tinubu: Half Term, Half Coherence

Dr Sam Amadi

Introduction

On May 29, President Tinubu celebrated two years of coming to the Nigerian Presidency. On May 29, 2023, Bola Ahmed Tinubu was sworn in as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria after a long campaign, marked by his acerbic declaration of entitlement to the office of the President. Tinubu, when it appeared like his predecessor, President Buhari, was going to plot against him becoming the Presidential candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC),

at a rally in his Southwest region, thundered: “Emi lo kan”, which translates to ‘it is my turn’. Tinubu pushed ahead against all odds, including running away from several scheduled television debates with other Presidential candidates, and sickly appearances in many public rallies, and got elected as President. For sure, he had a very slim victory, scoring 36.61% of the total votes and winning 12 States like Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi. His opponents, Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, challenged his victory up to the Supreme Court.

Two years after, President Tinubu is struggling against headwinds, as he readies for another bruising campaign for a second term. The premise of presenting yourself to the electorate for a second term, is that you have delivered on your campaign promises. Has President Tinubu done the job of the people? Does he deserve a second term? Well, his campaign team seem to have responded to these questions, during its May 29 celebration. The Tinubu campaign team has touted its achievements, since May 29, 2023. The laundry list of supposed achievements by the Tinubu administration, reads like a collection of some mundane and some lofty projects. For example, reporting the clearing of backlog of 200,000 applications for passports is something that no one would consider a remarkable achievement, even if it signals some restructuring at the Ministry of Interior. Again, listing workshops organised for female citizens should not be considered a significant achievement to tout, in the context of the dysfunction that threatens to collapse Nigeria’s economic and social foundations.

What Has Tinubu’s Administration Achieved So Far?

Notwithstanding the pedestrian scorecard that Tinubu media handlers posted, what has the administration achieved in the last two years? The administration boasts success in economic policymaking. As soon as Tinubu came to power, he quickly removed subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS). This increased PMS price from N183 to between N950 and N1000 per litre. The administration has also increased electricity tariff for customers on BAND A, without improvement in power supply. The double distress of large increase in energy prices means increase in the cost of doing business for industries and commercial entities, especially small and medium enterprises. Furthermore, the Government boasts of its courage in floating the Naira in a manner that resulted in massive rise in exchange rate. Before Tinubu became President, the Naira exchanged 450 for the Dollar. Today, $1 exchanges for over 1500 Naira. At some point in 2024, the

Tinubu Administration's Half Term Scorecard

exchange of naira to dollar was N1800 to $1. These monetary policies have contributed to high inflation. Headline inflation is 23.78%, the second highest in countries in the world with available data. This is not withstanding, the favourable rebasing by the Bureau of Statistics. Tinubu argues that the current socioeconomic realities that Nigerians are suffering, are temporary pains of a bold economic reforms that will yield many benefits in a couple of years. In the meantime, about 56% of Nigerians are estimated to be very poor, and many more will cross the threshold of acute poverty in 2025.

The problem with Tinubu administration’s claim of accomplishment, is that it confuses hard with wise. It is not all hard and difficult policies, that translate to good outcomes. The logic of completely floating your currency when you do not export anything of much value apart from oil, is far-fetched.

Evidently, Buhari ran the economy down, with ways and means getting to about N30 trillion and foreign exchange reserves depleted to less than $10billion, inadequate for a month export. So, Tinubu was dealt with a poor hand. He did not have enough fiscal space, he could argue. But, he has continued to make things worse, through poor policy formulation. The administration could have used a managed float, in which it exposes the currency market to market forces in a guided manner. That would have reduced and mitigated inflation.

Admittedly, the Government has stabilised macroeconomic policy than Buhari administration. Its fiscal policies, are also better than Buhari’s. But, Buhari should not be anyone’s comparator.

The Tinubu Government claims that it has saved $10billion annually, from removal of subsidies. Some State Governors have also stated that they have significantly increased the allocation from the Federation Account, because of the fiscal boom from subsidy removal. But, despite a better fiscal situation, the State Governments are not delivering dividends of democracy. Again, if Government is saving $10billion annually from subsidy removal, how come it is borrowing like a bankrupt? The lack of fiscal control means that the gains of monetary policy, do not cascade to an improvement of socioeconomic conditions of ordinary citizens. The absence of the required transmission mechanisms to turn monetary and fiscal policies into significant GDP growth or improvement in the wellbeing of citizens, indicates the weakness of the policy framework of the Tinubu administration. The rising costs of governance, the widespread corruption and glaring lack of coordination of policies across the different levels of government, means that no matter how reasonable some of the policies are, they cannot produce significant positive benefits.

The biggest failing of the Tinubu administration, may well be in the matter of security. The driving message of the APC in 2015 when it defeated the PDP, was that it had the better credential to end the high insecurity that had engulfed the country. APC slammed the PDP for supervising the rise of Boko Haram Islamic terrorism, and sundry violent crimes across the country. Sadly, the insecurity crisis worsened under APC’s eight years in office in the Buhari Presidency.

In the 2023 campaign, Tinubu promised to do better. But, so far so bad. In the week of his second-year anniversary, there was report of suicide bombing at a military barracks in Abuja; and in Borno State, one of the main centres of the Boko Haram terror attacks in 2014. The return of suicide bombing, a rarity since 2015, illustrates the worsening insecurity situation in the country. Despite the incessant political talks by the National Security Adviser, the Tinubu administration has not developed and deployed any strategic initiative to limit and overcome the manner insurgents, terrorists and violent criminals ravage Nigerian citizens. From terrorism to kidnapping or urban banditry, Nigeria today is as, or even more, insecure as it was in 2014, prior to APC coming to power. The lack of competence, at the level of leadership, and the transactional nature of the administration, make

it difficult to win the war against insecurity. The same reason Tinubu failed to succeed in the war against insecurity, explains the failure in the larger aspect of politics. The country is divided, arguably more than under Nigeria’s most divisive President, Buhari. Why and how did Tinubu, succeeding a divisive President like Buhari, not prioritise national unity? Today, his second term ambition risks defeat because he is perceived to be extremely nepotistic in the staffing of the Federal Government, contrary to the constitutional mandate of Federal character. The North that brought him to power feels alienated, and the Southeast that was marginalised by President Buhari, remains so under President Tinubu.

Beyond the electoral consequences of this approach to government, it inhibits the ability of the Federal Government to drive real transformation in governance. Development requires the mobilisation of the energies of a people. It requires changing mentality. The Presidency is a bully pulpit, because of the capacity of Presidents to change the culture and social capital of the people. This is what the best leaders have done, whether Lee Kuan Yew, General Park, or Deng Xiaoping. You cannot transform a society, unless you change the way people think and act.

Conclusion

After two years in office, it can be said that Tinubu’s major failure, is that he did not consider himself as a leader who needs to change the way Nigeria is governed. He brought together arguably the worst cast of rentiers and timeservers, to hold the most important political offices; he prioritised his political survival above the transformation of Nigeria, and continued the Lagos formula, which is basically running a mafia operation through institutionalised patrimony. Clearly, Tinubu has not changed Nigeria in a significantly positive way. Perhaps, his pedigree in politics is not suited for transformative governance.

Dr Sam Amadi

Tinubu’s Two Years: A Record of Broken

“The Naira, once trading at N740 to the Dollar, now wobbles between N1,500 and N1,600, eroding savings and purchasing power. The new minimum wage of N70,000 is a cruel joke when compared to South Africa’s N393,000 or Egypt’s N209,000 - yet even this paltry sum remains unimplemented in many States of Nigeria. Multinationals, from Diageo to Kimberly-Clark, have fled Nigeria, taking 20,000 jobs along with them.”

As Nigeria approaches Democracy Day, a moment for national reflection, it is important to take stock of the Tinubu administration’s performance after two years in office.

Sadly, beyond symbolic gestures like the recent reintroduction of the old national anthem and a controversial Bill extending the tenure of the Inspector General of Police—rushed through by a National Assembly seemingly more loyal to the President than to the people, there is little substance to show.

From the outset, this administration has struggled with a crisis of legitimacy, stemming from a deeply flawed election. That crisis continues to cast a shadow over its governance. More troubling, however, is the deepening insecurity across the country. New and deadly terror groups have emerged in Sokoto, Kebbi, and Kwara State, unleashing violence that has displaced communities and devastated lives. Armed herdsmen continue to invade villages, raze farms, and brutalise citizens with impunity.

The Federal Government’s failure to contain this violence, speaks volumes.

Healthcare remains in a state of decay. Despite substantial budgetary allocations —including funds earmarked for the State House Clinic — President Tinubu continues to seek medical care abroad, reinforcing the perception that even the ruling class has no faith in the system they oversee. Meanwhile, corruption festers, and anticorruption institutions are increasingly seen as tools to target political dissent, rather than to uphold justice.

Economically, the country teeters on the edge. With a Naira in free fall, inflation surging, and purchasing power collapsing, everyday Nigerians are struggling to survive. Hunger, poverty, and social inequality are on the rise, yet there is little sign of urgency or empathy from the Government.

Rather than demonstrate a commitment to the pressing issues of governance, this administration appears preoccupied with securing power in 2027. Policies and political manoeuvres, suggest a focus on electoral advantage over national healing and reform.

As we mark two years of this administration, President Tinubu owes Nigerians more than silence and indifference. He owes them an apology—for the unfulfilled promises,

the deepening insecurity, the economic hardship, and the erosion of public trust. More than that, he owes the nation a rededication to the principles of justice, accountability, and inclusive governance. Democracy Day must not be a celebration of power, but a reminder of responsibility.

Okechukwu Nwanguma

Midterm of Misery: Periscoping President Tinubu’s Performance So Far

Haruna Yahaya Poloma

Two years ago, Bola Tinubu swept into power on the wings of his “Renewed Hope” mantra, promising prosperity, stability, and a break from Nigeria’s cycle of dysfunction. Today, as his administration marks its midterm, that hope has curdled into despair. Tinubu’s tenure has been a masterclass in economic mismanagement, policy incoherence, and a staggering indifference to the suffering of ordinary Nigerians. From skyrocketing inflation to a collapsing power sector, from mass unemployment to a security crisis spiralling out of control, his Government has presided over a midterm of unrelenting misery.

The Fuel Subsidy Fiasco: A Self-Inflicted Economic Catastrophe

Tinubu’s defining act - the abrupt removal of petrol subsidies on his inauguration day - was less a bold reform than an act of economic arson. Overnight, petrol prices surged from N185 to over N1,000 per litre, triggering a chain reaction of hyperinflation in transportation, food, and basic goods. The Government’s justification - that subsidy removal would free funds for development - rings hollow when Nigerians see no tangible improvements in infrastructure or social services. Instead, they face a brutal cost-of-living crisis, with inflation peaking at 34.8% in late 2024.

Worse still, the promised benefits of subsidy removal - like domestic refining capacity - remain a mirage. Despite Tinubu retaining the petroleum portfolio (a dubious tradition of Nigerian leaders), fuel imports continue as local refineries struggle. The much-hyped Dangote Refinery, while a rare bright spot, has yet to offset the crisis, leaving Nigeria’s energy sector in shambles.

The Power Sector: Darkness and Dysfunction If Tinubu’s handling of fuel was disastrous, his administration’s approach to electricity is outright negligent. Under Minister Adebayo Adelabu, Nigeria’s power grid collapsed 12 times in 2024 alone, plunging homes, businesses, and even hospitals into darkness. Universities and medical facilities, including the prestigious University

Promises and Growing Hardship Okechukwu Nwanguma

President Bola Tinubu

Tinubu Administration's Half Term Scorecard

College Hospital, were disconnected for months over unpaid bills - forcing the Government to scramble for a N10 billion solar bailout for Aso Rock itself.

With only 5,000 megawatts for a population of over 200 million - compared to South Africa’s 58,000 MW - Nigeria’s power sector is a lamentable laughingstock. The introduction of punitive “consumption bands” has only raised costs without improving supply, perversely squeezing households and businesses.

Economic Freefall: The Naira’s Nosedive and the Exodus of Jobs Finance Minister, Wale Edun presides over an economy in a free fall. The Naira, once trading at N740 to the Dollar, now wobbles between N1,500 and N1,600, eroding savings and purchasing power. The new minimum wage of N70,000 is a cruel joke when compared to South Africa’s N393,000 or Egypt’s N209,000 - yet even this paltry sum remains unimplemented in many States of Nigeria.

Multinationals, from Diageo to Kimberly-Clark, have fled Nigeria, taking 20,000 jobs along with them. The reason? An unfriendly business environment, erratic power, and suffocating bureaucracy. Meanwhile, the “japa” syndrome drains the country of doctors, engineers, and skilled professionals, leaving critical sectors in manpower ruination.

Security: A Government in Denial

Despite allocating N6.11 trillion to defence in 2025, Tinubu’s security chiefs have failed spectacularly. Boko Haram, ISWAP, bandits, and newly emerging terror groups in Sokoto and Kwara continue their reign of unchecked violence and impunity. Plateau and Benue State remain blood-soaked battlegrounds, while the military struggles to protect even its own bases from attacks. The Government’s hollow assurances - “terrorists are no match for our troops”- are an insult to grieving communities and their hapless victims.

Ethnic Favouritism and a Divided Nation

Beyond policy failures, Tinubu has exacerbated Nigeria’s fragile unity, by stacking key institutions with his ethnic Yoruba appointees. All eight of Nigeria’s most powerful positions—Central Bank, NNPC, Police, Army, Customs, EFCC, and others - are now held by Yorubas, a historic imbalance that fuels ethnic tensions and magnifies the fault lines of a deeply divided nation. Critics, including voices from his own party, warn that this lopsidedness undermines national cohesion and sets a dangerous precedent.

Conclusion: A Government Adrift Tinubu’s midterm report card is one of broken promises, and worsening suffering. His reforms, praised by vampire and blood sucking international bodies like the IMF, have yet to translate into tangible relief for Nigerians. Instead, his administration oscillates between denial and deflection - APC Governors may trumpet “vindication”, but the streets tell a continuously different story.

With two years left in an era of unprecedented bungling blunders, Tinubu has a choice: coursecorrect with genuine reforms, fiscal discipline, and inclusive governance - or double down on the same blunders, while eyeing re-election in 2027. For now, Nigerians endure a midterm of misery, led by a Government that governs for itself and its cronies, not the Nigerian people it swore to serve.

Haruna Yahaya Poloma, Abuja

Tinubu’s Two Years: Getting Government Budgeting Right to Break the Jinx of Bad Governance

Emeka Ejikonye

Paradox of the Existing Intellectual Disposition

Right from October 1, 1960, when Nigeria gained independence from British colonial rule, our government budgetary practice has remained a mere symbol, rather than rational activity

driven by independent, well-thought-out locally-defined and socially-realistic solutions to our development problems. To be sure, the ideological and institutional foundation of budgeting in Nigeria, as in most African and other underdeveloped countries of this world, are founded on prescriptions forced down the throat of the governments by the Bretton Woods institutions of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank.

First, is the 19th century rule by scholars of the Public Administration Movement in the United States of America for the separation of ‘planning’ from ‘budgeting’ in governance. This issued from their prescription for the separation of politics from administration to breed the unrealistic clear line of distinction between the formulation of public policy and its execution. Of course, we now know that this dichotomisation is not feasible, because the two activities inevitably operate as inalienable integral parts of the same bureaucratic structure of governance. Unfortunately, the prescription led to budgeting becoming fixated on the cost-accounting skill of developing a line-itemisation of the objects of government expenditure.

Then, the British economist, John Maynard Keynes, came along to muddle this ideological fallacy, with his argument that government can achieve the aims of governance by controlling the flow of money in circulation. This forced the rule for the concentration of government on the management of ‘economy’ and relegating ‘society' to the background.Certainly, there is a difference between economy and society. While the first focuses on how to maximise public finance and satisfy the bodily needs of human survival, the second is more concerned with the overall improvement in not just the bodily, but also emotional wellbeing of the citizenry. It is no wonder that the average economist thinks more in terms of ‘efficiency’ without regard to ‘effectiveness’.

Finally, at the turn of the 1990s, the IMF and World Bank forced our governments

“Government budgetary practice in Nigeria…. has progressively degenerated into a massive annual ritual of State-capture by the privileged tiny minority…. through the appropriation of our common wealth into their private pockets…. I watched an official of BudgIT on television, lament that over eleven trillion Naira was smuggled into the 2025 Federal Government budget by members of the National Assembly”

in the underdeveloped countries, not just Nigeria, mind you, to adopt the so-called Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), aimed at discarding the failed medium-term development planning for short-term stabilisation efforts. However, several questions must agitate the mind of any discerning and keen observer. First, how come the developed countries that control the IMF and World Bank, do not practice this institutional separation of planning from budgeting in their governance systems? Second, what was it that prompted President Franklin D. Roosevelt ‘FDR’ to relocate the government budgeting agency (then known as Bureau of the Budget (BOB) and later renamed Office of Management and Budget (OMB)) from the Treasury Department (our equivalent of the Ministry of Finance) to the Office of the President in 1939? Third, why did President Richard Nixon discard Programme Budgeting (also known as “Planning Programming Budgeting System”) to adopt Management-By-Objectives (MBO) in 1973? Fourth, what was it that motivated President Ronald Reagan to abandon Zero Base Budgeting (ZBB) for Central Policy Review immediately after assuming office in 1981? Finally, what role did the budgetary reform that President Bill Clinton initiated in the early ‘honeymoon’ period of his Presidency, play in generating the over twenty million new jobs that translated into the historic greatest improvement in the quality of livelihood of the US citizenry ever? What is it that hinders successive Nigerian Presidents and Governors from adopting these very dynamic precursor initiatives? Is it just plain greed and avarice, or their failure to think outside the box and adopt disruptive ideas? I just wonder.

The Caricature of Public Budgeting in Nigeria Government budgetary practice in Nigeria, operates as a mere caricature of the very phenomenon. Over the years, it has progressively degenerated into a massive annual ritual of State-capture by the privileged tiny minority at the given moment in time through the appropriation of our common wealth into their private pockets. Just the other day, I watched an official of BudgIT on television, lament that over eleven trillion Naira was smuggled into the 2025 Federal Government budget by members of the National Assembly. We have come to dub this very nefarious annual practice by our Federal Legislators by the very ingenious name, “budget padding”. On the part of the Executive, this same official of BudgIT noted the delay by the Government budgeting agency, that is, the Budget Office of the Federation, to post the Federal Government budget on its website for public access and scrutiny. And, when the agency eventually did, rather than just simply posting the pdf version that would be easily accessible for analysis, it posted pictures of each of the over one thousand pages of the document. Of course, this is simply a deliberate ploy to confuse the Nigerian public by creating opaqueness. Another keen observer of governance in Nigeria, noted how officials of this same Budget Office of the Federation

will usually go about searching for real estates of over half a billion Naira to buy immediately after Mr President signs the budget into law. Today, we do not actually know which budget law that is in operation. The Government tells us that the 2024 budget is still in operation, alongside that of 2025.We are not even sure if we are done with the 2023 budget. It is an outright state of confusion. In the midst of the abject penury of the vast majority of our citizenry, this scenario is very disheartening, to say the least.

The Way Out

Invariably, national development will continue to elude us as a people, until the day our Federal and State Governments get our budgetary practice right. As the single most important activity of governance, it is the only means of achieving the optimal performance of our elected officials in public service delivery, to eradicate the mass poverty and hardship that is currently crushing our citizenry. I have always said it to the hearing of anyone who cares to listen that the most critical and fundamental reform of governance in Nigeria today is budgetary reform. We must transform the phenomenon from its existing restricted view, as the instrument for managing the financial-resources of governance to achieve the fiscal policy objectives of government. On the contrary, for budgeting to play its rightful role in our governance, it must operate broadly as the instrument for managing the institutionalresources of governance to achieve the public policy objectives of government. In this latter sense, the primary concern is with the efficient and effective deployment of human and material resources, towards the optimal performance of government in public service delivery. This is the only way to not only lay the solid and durable foundation inevitable for good governance, but also nurture the public service delivery effort to sustain our social advancement. Without this reform initiative, all efforts by our governments at national development will continue to be driven by chance or luck, and eradication of the mass poverty bedevilling our citizenry will remain daydreaming.

The onus for initiating this budgetary reform at the Federal level of our governance, lies squarely with the incumbent President and principal officers of the National Assembly at the particular point in time. Since the beginning of this democratic Fourth Republic, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, the late Alhaji Umaru Musa Yar’Adua (may God continue to rest his soul), Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and Alhaji Muhammadu Buhari failed to seize the glorious opportunity of writing their names in the indelible sands of time by leaving this positive legacy. Today, the ball is squarely in the court of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Will he seize the golden opportunity, or also allow it to slip by just like his predecessors? The choice is his to make.

At the State level of our governance, the responsibility for initiating this budgetary reform rests with the Governors and leadership of the Houses of Assembly. My prayer is that Providence will bring us a set of elected officials with the requisite sense of empathy, sincerity-of-purpose, strong-will, steadfast-resolve and, above all, patriotic fervour to do this right thing for the Nigerian populace: #BudgetaryReformFirst.

Emeka Ejikonye

Talking ConsTiTuTional demoCraCy

Justice Denied? Supreme Court’s Judgement in Sunday Jackson’s Self-Defence Case (Part 3)

The Dissenting Opinion: A Voice Of Moderation (Continues)

Honourable Justice Helen Moronkeji Ogunwumiju, JSC, in her lone but fierce dissent, opined: “It is not reasonable, nor indeed, natural, to expect that a man who has been stabbed twice and suddenly finds himself struggling for his life, would pause to calibrate the proportionality of his defensive action. The expectation of retreat after such an attack, is neither practical nor fair”

Her Lordship emphasised the necessity of interpreting the law in light of real human experience, not abstract logic. She criticised the trial court for relying solely on Jackson’s confessional statement, which was never legally contested, but also never corroborated by external forensic or eyewitness evidence. Her dissent concluded that, Jackson acted within the permissible limits of both self-defence and provocation. She called for the exercise of executive clemency, and recommended that Jackson’s case be reconsidered for a possible pardon.

The Critique

The Supreme Court majority decision has been criticised as perverse, unjust and unscholarly by many in the legal community. Writers and Editorials from various public newspaper platforms like The Guardian, ThisDay and Premium times, have lamented that the Judiciary has allowed form to triumph over substance, and that the decision reflects a worrying detachment from the realities of violence, especially in Nigeria’s agrarian belt.

The realities of violence surrounding Adamawa State, is not novel to the natives of the “Land of Beauty”. As an overture, Numan, a town which lends its name to one of the constitutionally established 21 Local Government Areas of Adamawa State in North-East Nigeria, serves as the ancestral homeland of the Bwatiye (also referred to as Bachama) people, a socio-cultural group with transboundary ethnic affiliations, extending into parts of the Republic of Cameroon. Geographically situated within the Benue River basin and nourished by one of its significant tributaries, the Taraba River, Numan’s arable lands have historically supported robust sedentary agricultural activities. In parallel, the region has long accommodated Fulbe pastoralists, who have relied on its grazing potential for the sustenance of their livestock.

These ecological and demographic dynamics have positioned Numan as a significant locus, in the protracted and violent conflict over livelihoods between sedentary agrarian communities and armed nomadic pastoralists in Nigeria’s Middle Belt. Commonly characterised as a crisis arising from "scarce land and water resources", this conflict is estimated to have resulted in the deaths of approximately 10,000 individuals since about 2013. It is widely regarded as the second most lethal conflict in Nigeria, following the insurgency perpetrated by the Boko Haram group.

From approximately 2015 to early 2018, Numan was a central theatre of violent confrontations between farming communities and armed pastoralist groups. Although the precise casualty figures remain indeterminate, independent reporting such as that by researcher James Court right in a 2023 publication indicates that by the cessation of hostilities in January 2018, approximately 150 persons had been killed, numerous villages razed, and hundreds of Fulbe residents displaced. The severity of the crisis gave rise to legal proceedings before the ECOWAS Court of Justice.

On the 5th of December, 2017, the then VicePresident of Nigeria, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, undertook an official visit to Adamawa State for a firsthand assessment of the situation. In the aftermath of this visit, the Federal Government implemented

emergency relief measures targeting affected communities, including Dong, Lawaru, and Kukumso in Demsa Local Government Area; and Shafaron, Kodomti, Tullum, Mzoruwe, and Mararraban Bare in Numan Local Government Area. Concurrently, the Government initiated a nationwide consultation exercise intended to explore sustainable resolutions to the farmers-herders conflict. However, this initiative ultimately failed to yield conclusive outcomes. Amidst these developments, the events that unfolded in Jackson’s case in 2018, in the Kodomti village, became the subject of criminal investigation and prosecution, culminating in appellate review by the Supreme Court of Nigeria, which rendered its decision on the 7th of March, 2025. The incident in question, occurred on the 27th of January, 2015, on farmland belonging to one Sunday Jackson, a farmer, who stabbed to death, an assailant, Ardo Bawuro. Following an altercation, Bawuro was found dead, having sustained three fatal stab wounds to the neck, allegedly inflicted by Mr Jackson. There is yet another major flaw in the judgement. Justice Tsammani, in his concurring judgement, believed that having successfully collected the dagger from Bawuro, one stab was enough and three excessive, showing vengefulness. There was however, no evidence before the Apex Court as to which of the three stabs actually killed Bawuro. Supposing it was the very first stab? There existed a Coroner’s report, nowhere did the judgement mention a Pathologist’s report. Even the extrajudicial statement of Jackson to the Police was self-explanatory: “On Tuesday, 27/01/15 at about 11:10 hrs, I left my village and was cutting thatching grasses in a bush located in Kodomti village in Numan LGA when the deceased, Alh Buba Bawuro as identified attacked me after loosing sight of some persons alleged to be pursuing for killing his cattle. He attacked me in frustration and wanted to stab me with a dagger then we engaged in a wrestling encounter. I succeeded in seizing the dagger from him which I used to stab him thrice on his throat. When the deceased collapsed and was rolling down in a pool of his blood, I took heels and escaped”.

“The Jackson judgement.…condemns him for failing to act like a measured tactician, weighing proportionality response on an imaginary scale, instead of a terrified human being, battling to save his life.…..From the “stand your grounds”doctrine in American States, to the Canadian recognition of “psychological trauma”in violent encounters, and even to UK precedents acknowledging “mistaken but honest fear”, the world has since moved forward. The majority judgement in Sunday Jackson, remains rooted in a shrinking past of the better-forgotten dark ages”

The case of SUNDAY JACKSON v THE STATE will undoubtedly be remembered for a long time, not merely for its outcome, but for what it reveals about the fractured justice state in Nigeria. It exposes a legal system which, in its current form, too often prioritises theoretical coherence over practical reality; doctrine over humanity; technicalities over substance. The Supreme Court’s judgement, it is respectfully submitted, though cloaked in the flowery language of precedent and procedural neatness, stands as perverse, unscholarly and ultimately, unjustified. It delivered no justice.

To call a man a murderer for surviving an unprovoked, near-fatal attack on his own farmland, is to weaponise the law against its own purpose. Sunday Jackson, a young farmer defending his life and livelihood on his own farmland, acted with the instinct that every human shares of in the will to live. That the Apex Court of the land could dissect this instinct and declare it criminal, speaks volumes of how detached our jurisprudence has become from the people it is meant to serve.

I humbly submit that the judgement is perverse, not because it breaks the law, but because it follows the law to an end so twisted, that it no longer resembles justice. It placed law above justice, whereas the same Apex Court in BELLO v A.G. OYO STATE (1986) 5 NWLR 820 had warned that “the law is but the handmaid to deliver justice”. The Jackson judgement required a man stabbed twice to retreat from his own land to where, we were not told. It expected him to anticipate whether his attacker might find a piece of rock, or regroup for a second assault. It condemns him for failing to act like a measured tactician, weighing proportionality response on an imaginary scale, instead of a terrified human being, battling to save his life. This is legal reasoning turned against lived experience.

I respectfully submit that the judgement is unscholarly, because it refused to engage with evolving legal standards across comparative jurisdictions. Nigerian courts have long clung to outdated colonial constructs, many of which have been discarded or revised in the very legal systems that birthed them. From the “stand your grounds” doctrine in American States, to the Canadian recognition of “psychological trauma” in violent encounters, and even to UK precedents acknowledging “mistaken but honest fear”, the world has since moved forward. The majority judgement in Sunday Jackson, remains rooted in a shrinking past of the better-forgotten dark ages. Above all, the judgement is wholly unjust. Justice, as both a constitutional promise and a moral imperative, must protect the vulnerable, not punish them for surviving. Justice must never weaponise the State against its citizens. In

affirming Jackson’s death sentence, the Apex Court did not uphold justice; it merely enforced legality; and the difference is not semantic; it is foundational. A man who should have been granted mercy, or at worst leniency, was given the harshest penalty known to law. That to me is injustice, calculated and codified.

Furthermore, the Judiciary’s refusal to interrogate the flawed confessional statement extracted without the presence of Counsel and uncorroborated by independent evidence, further reflects the systemic inequities that plague Nigeria’s criminal justice process. This was not merely a case of legal misjudgement; it was a case study in how structural violence is reproduced through courts and clothed in legitimacy. From the requirement to retreat, to the burden of proving necessity, to the casual dismissal of oral testimony that bore the ring of truth, Jackson was failed at every level by the Police, by Prosecutors, by courts, and ultimately, by the legal system itself. That a dissenting opinion even exists, is a reminder that this case was never clear-cut. It was always contestable, will always be. It was always arguable and will always be. Therefore, it should never have ended with death.

My Take This article has endeavoured to do what the judgement failed to do: to place the facts, the context, and the humanity of Sunday Jackson at the centre of legal reflection. It has argued that the doctrines of self-defence and provocation must be reformed, to reflect contemporary realities. It has proposed legislative models that anchor the law, not in cold abstraction, but in the moral urgency of justice; of now. In the final analysis, law must be more than logic. It must be a living instrument of equity. It must be an instrument of social engineering (Dean Roscoe Pound). If the system cannot protect a man who defends himself from death, then we must ask: whose life does the law truly value or protect? Which life matters? Let the case of Sunday Jackson, be the moment we stopped asking that question in silence.

Finally, it is submitted that the conviction of Sunday Jackson in the case under review, is an unwarranted violation by the Supreme Court and the lower courts of his right to self-defence and right to life. I humbly submit that the Apex Court majority decision in the case is full of contradictions, inconsistencies and departure from familiar law and its own stare decisis. Self-defence is a taken for granted as a defence, not only in all common law countries and in other jurisdictions, but under international human rights law. It is recognised under Section 33(2)(a) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999. So, why would the Supreme Court undermine it here? As strange and unacceptable as the lead judgement of Hon. Justice M.B. Idris, JSC is in the case, unfortunately, some other Hon. Justices; Emmanuel Agim, Haruna Simon Tsammani and Habeeb Abiru sided with him as they delivered concurring judgements! Only Hon. Justice Helen Ogunwumiju dissented. Equally shocking is the fact that the concurring Justices all failed to hold that, at worst; the Appellant should have been convicted for the lesser offence of manslaughter, rather than culpable homicide punishable with death (murder). Must we always have concurring judgements, especially when those judgements deviate from set stare decisis and they are too terse to be credible?

It is also humbly submitted that, SUNDAY JACKSON v THE STATE is just one of the many inexplicable judgements emanating from our courts, the Apex Court not excluded. The list is increasing: 2020 Imo State Governorship elections case; 2018 Osun State Governorship election case; 2019 Kogi State Governorship election case; Pillars v Desbordes; Machina’s APC Primaries case; Rivers State political crisis case; PDP National Secretary tussle case, etc. Some of these judgements are unconsciously making Nigerians lose confidence in the Judiciary. And, I pray and hope that rampant self-help and anarchy will not follow, if the trend continues. As a sworn Solicitor and Advocate of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, a legal scholar, social critic and a believer in the Nigerian project, I am particularly bothered, because lower courts are bound by some judgements (precedents) which do not serve justice. I implore the Supreme Court to rise up and join the campaign for a new Nigeria that will not just be for the elites, but also for the masses. (The End)

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

“At his best, man is the noblest of all animals, separated from law and justice, he is the worst.” (Aristotle)

Conclusion: Justice Denied in the Shadow of Law

PROF mike O zekh O me, san 0809 889 8888 sms Only

Dangiwa Leads Overhaul of Nigeria’s Housing Sector

Mark Chieshe

Seventeen months after Ahmed Dangiwa assumed office as Nigeria’s Minister of Housing and Urban Development, the landscape of the nation’s housing sector is undergoing significant transformation.

Appointed by President Bola Tinubu, under the Renewed Hope Agenda, Dangiwa has brought clarity, urgency, and depth to a sector long plagued by underinvestment, institutional inertia, and systemic bottlenecks.

Supporting him in this journey is Hon. Yusuf Ata, who was appointed Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development in October 2024. Since joining the Ministry, Ata has worked closely with Dangiwa, bringing complementary leadership and reinforcing the drive for accelerated implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda across the housing and urban development value chain.

From launching Nigeria’s most ambitious housing delivery programme in decades, to championing reforms that would lead to the unlocking of long-frozen land assets, Dangiwa is building more than houses, he’s building a new vision for Nigeria’s housing and urban development.

Mass Housing

At the core of Dangiwa’s strides is the Renewed Hope Housing Programme, a bold initiative to provide affordable homes to Nigerians across varying income segments. The programme is anchored on three core delivery mechanisms that reflect the Ministry’s responsiveness to Nigeria’s diverse housing needs.

The first component is the Renewed Hope Cities, which involves the construction of large-scale, integrated housing developments with a minimum of 1,000 units each. These cities are to be developed in each of the six geopolitical zones and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), with designs that promote holistic living. They are envisioned as self-contained urban communities complete with essential infrastructure such as roads, green spaces, schools, and healthcare facilities.

Next is the Renewed Hope Estates initiative, which focuses on mid-scale housing projects comprising 250 housing units per site. These estates are currently ongoing in 13 states (Osun, Oyo, Delta, Akwa Ibom, Abia, Ebonyi, Benue, Nasarawa, Katsina, Sokoto, Gombe, Kano and Yobe) and primarily cater to low- and middle-income earners. They are especially targeted at civil servants, and workers in the informal economy, thus broadening access to affordable homeownership for traditionally underserved demographics.

The third and most ambitious component is the Renewed Hope Social Housing Programme. This scheme plans the construction of 100 housing units in each of Nigeria’s 774 local government areas, amounting to a nationwide target of 77,400 homes. It is specifically designed for Nigeria’s poorest and most vulnerable populations. Under this model, 80 percent of the houses will be sold at heavily subsidised rates, while the remaining 20 percent will be allocated free of charge to those in greatest need.

Already, the numbers are impressive. Within 17 months of taking office, the Ministry has turned Nigeria into a huge construction site with construction going on simultaneously in 14 states, accounting for 10,112 housing units, many of which are already at advanced stages of development. In contrast, the previous administration delivered just 3,388 completed homes under the National Housing Programme across eight years.

Slum Upgrade/Urban Renewal

Dangiwa’s impact isn’t limited to housing construction. He has revitalised the National Urban Renewal and Slum Upgrading Programme, with over 100 infrastructure projects completed nationwide. From the North, to the South the impact is visible. These include the provision of solar-powered streetlights, clean water supply systems, internal roads, drainages, and waste management facilities in some of Nigeria’s most underserved communities. These projects, implemented in semi-urban areas and rural settlements, are improving living conditions for tens of thousands of Nigerians and restoring a sense of dignity to neglected communities.

Land Reforms

Perhaps, the most transformative intervention in Nigeria’s housing and urban development sector under Dangiwa’s leadership is the bold move to fix the country’s deeply entrenched land administration challenges. For decades, poor land governance has stifled housing delivery, discouraged real estate investment, and undermined the growth of mortgage finance. Without secure and verifiable land titles, millions of Nigerians remain unable to leverage land as a productive asset or collateral for credit, while the government loses billions in potential revenue from property taxation and transaction fees.

Recognising this, the Minister inaugurated a high-powered Land Reform Task Team, drawing on experts from across the public and private sectors. The Task Team submitted a comprehensive blueprint to overhaul and modernise land administration in Nigeria.

The recommendations focus on streamlining land titling, digitising land records, reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks, and creating a unified national framework for land governance that respects the roles of both federal and state actors.

To bring this vision to life, the Ministry, in collaboration with the World Bank and state governments, is collaborating with States towards the rollout of the Nigeria Land Registration and Titling Programme. The programme is ambitious in scope: it aims to formalise 50 per cent of land transactions across the country within the next 10 years.

If achieved, this could unlock over $150 billion in so-called “dead capital”—land assets that remain economically dormant due to lack of formal title or documentation. By turning these assets into bankable and tradable resources, the programme holds the potential to increase Nigeria’s GDP by up to 30 per cent, driven by renewed investor confidence, growth in the mortgage sector, and expanded real estate development.

The programme’s core features include simplifying and standardising the land ownership process, drastically reducing transaction costs and timelines, and deploying technology to build secure, transparent, and interoperable land databases across the federation. For ordinary Nigerians, this reform promises easier access to land ownership, increased tenure security, and the ability to participate more fully in the formal economy.

Institutional Reforms, Funding Models

Recognising that legacy institutions must be retooled to meet today’s complex challenges, the Ministry is actively driving a suite of bold institutional reforms. At the forefront of these efforts is the optimisation of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) and the Federal Housing Authority (FHA). Both institutions are being strengthened to improve operational efficiency, enhance financial viability, and strengthen service delivery to Nigerians, particularly those in the low- and middle-income brackets.

Under Dangiwa’s leadership, FMBN is showing measurable improvements in performance and impact.

Between May 2023 and April 2025, the Bank disbursed over N73 billion in housing finance, delivering 2,542 new homes across the country, and benefiting over 30,000 Nigerians through various housing loan products.

These include 1,285 beneficiaries of NHF mortgage loans worth N11.75 billion, 1,140 beneficiaries of Rent-to-Own housing valued at N15.06 billion, and 27,911 recipients of Home Renovation Loans totaling N15.35 billion.

The Bank also recorded an unprecedented operational surplus of N11.58 billion for the year ending December 2024 (unaudited), marking a turnaround in profitability. Furthermore, the successful completion of FMBN’s Core Banking Application (CBA) in Q1 2025 has significantly enhanced the Bank’s operational capacity.

The platform allows NHF contributors to conduct services online—ranging from registration and loan applications to repayments and refund requests—while reducing turnaround time by over 40 per cent. In line with its mandate to expand homeownership, the Bank registered 373,595 new NHF contributors and refunded N30.66 billion to over 92,000 past contributors. NHF collections during the period stood at an impressive N203.27 billion, indicating gFMBN is also innovating. It is finalising the launch of a Diaspora Mortgage Product in partnership with NiDCOM, and designing new offerings such as Rent Assistance and Home Improvement Loans tailored for the informal sector, including non-interest mortgage products to accommodate religious sensitivities. Alongside this, a framework for establishing the National Social Housing Fund (NSHF) is in advanced stages, a vehicle that pools concessionary capital from multiple sources.

Policy Leadership

Beyond physical construction and funding mechanisms, Dangiwa’s leadership has placed strong emphasis on policy formulation and regulatory reform as key enablers of sustainable development.

In collaboration with UN-Habitat, the Ministry has drafted a new National Urban Development Policy (NUDP), which outlines a 10-year action plan to guide Nigeria’s urbanisation in a structured, inclusive, and sustainable manner.

At the same time, the Ministry is undertaking a comprehensive review of the National Housing Strategy Report (2023). The goal is to update the document to reflect the country’s post-2019 macroeconomic realities and ensure it is ready for practical implementation. These policy actions are complemented by the Ministry’s full support for the proposed Real Estate Regulatory Authority Bill, which aims to establish legal safeguards for property buyers, investors, and practitioners, thereby fostering greater trust and professionalism in the housing market.

Continental Impact

Dangiwa’s commitment to reform is not only resonating within Nigeria but is also gaining recognition across the continent. In June 2024, he was unanimously elected Chairman of the Financial Caucus of African Ministers of Housing and Urban Development. In this role, he is leading continental efforts to strengthen cooperation on housing finance, urban policy, and sustainable development practices. His election affirms Nigeria’s re-emergence as a thought leader and driver of transformative housing solutions under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Tangible Results

The results of these efforts are already tangible. Over 10,112 housing units are currently under construction nationwide, while more than 100 slum upgrading projects have been completed to improve living conditions in underserved communities.

From Curiosity to Impact: How TEXEM’s May 2025 Programme Sparked Strategic Leadership for Digital Age

In the vibrant heart of Abu Dhabi, under the soft glow of a May morning, an extraordinary gathering unfolded. Senior executives from across Nigeria and beyond convened for TEXEM UK’s transformational executive development programme—Digital Innovation: Stimulating a Culture of Intrapreneurship in a Digital Age.

Over the course of four meticulously designed days, what began as a cohort of high-potential leaders evolved into a community of purpose-driven changemakers, fuelled by shared insights, strategic rigour and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

From the outset, the tone was set with an air of curiosity and vision. Dr. Alim Abubakre, Founder of TEXEM UK, welcomed participants with a powerful call to action.

“In times of disruption, curiosity becomes our most strategic asset. Leadership today demands that we ask better questions and build better futures,” stated Abubakre. His words echoed throughout the week, grounding each moment in a greater mission—to lead not by authority but by influence, innovation, and integrity.

The opening day immersed participants

in the rich cultural and historical context of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). A visit to a heritage destination became more than sightseeing—it transformed into a masterclass on leadership through perspective. Delegates were reminded that understanding history and culture is essential to navigating the complexities of contemporary governance and global leadership. The afternoon brought a dynamic exploration of digital excellence in practice, providing participants with front-row access to real-world examples of how organisations are harnessing innovation to redefine customer experience and operational efficiency. By evening, conversations around the dinner table were no longer introductions—they were the beginnings of collaboration. Tuesday was a turning point. Framed around the theme of strategic leadership in a digitally disruptive era, it confronted the reality that the future does not belong to the biggest but to the boldest. In a fast-changing world defined by volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity, participants dissected what it truly means to lead with vision. Practical sessions guided executives through the art of aligning culture with strategy, embedding

innovation into daily practice, and creating ecosystems where intrapreneurial ideas could flourish without fear of failure. The fireside chat, chaired by Abubakre, was especially profound—executives shared authentic challenges and discovered the immense value of peer-driven insights. The day ended not in closure but in reflection, with an interactive knowledge quiz that doubled as a celebration of learning and camaraderie.

Wednesday deepened the journey by linking governance with innovation. As discussions unfolded, it became clear that digital transformation must be governed by integrity and transparency to have an enduring impact. In a session led by Abubakre on strategic perspectives on organisational culture, participants applied rigorous frameworks to assess the visible and invisible elements shaping behaviour within their institutions. They uncovered blind spots, challenged assumptions, and began to design cultures that reward trust, accountability, and experimentation. The evening’s visit to a flagship commercial hub was not recreational—it was strategic. Participants analysed design, customer flows, and experiential branding, drawing parallels with their own organisations’

service delivery and internal culture. By Thursday, the cohort had not only absorbed insight but they had internalised a new mindset. The day’s theme—resilience, innovation and leading through adversity—could not have been more timely. With crises becoming the new normal, executives explored how to lead through the storm, not just survive it. They learned from powerful, real-world stories of leadership under fire, understanding that composure, clarity and courage are forged in moments of trial. Sessions on strategic storytelling provided tools to inspire teams, mobilise boards, and influence stakeholders with authenticity and purpose. The final session brought it all together in a symbolic crescendo—an energetic, competitive quiz, the awarding of certificates, and deeply moving closing reflections. These were not just credentials; they were affirmations of a new chapter, one rooted in action.

What set this programme apart was not only its world-class content or its expert faculty, including luminaries like Professor Rodria Laline and John Peters. It was the alchemy of context, content and community. Delegates left not just with theory but with a clear, actionable roadmap

tailored to their organisational challenges and strategic goals. Many had already identified intrapreneurial pilots to launch, culture shifts to initiate, and cross-sector collaborations to activate upon their return. Within 72 hours of departure, follow-up exchanges revealed that new partnerships had been born, board-level dialogues had been scheduled, and performance metrics were being redesigned to encourage innovation and accountability.

Reflecting on the experience, Abubakre stated, “True leadership is a relay, not a solo sprint. Our duty is to pass the baton of curiosity so swiftly and so generously that innovation becomes everyone’s default.”

That philosophy—generosity in insight, urgency in action, and curiosity as currency—was the lifeblood of the entire programme. In an era where disruption is relentless and strategy must be as fluid as it is firm, the May 2025 TEXEM programme did more than educate. It ignited. It transformed. It empowered a new generation of executives to architect a future where innovation is not just a buzzword but a daily discipline, where culture is not an afterthought but a competitive advantage, and where resilience is not reactive but proactive.

AhmedDangiwa

Vitel Wireless Completes Interconnectivity with All Major Network Operators

Oluchi Chibuzort

Nigeria’s first Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), Vitel Wireless, has broken new ground once again by announcing the successful completion of interconnectivity with all major Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in Nigeria.

The firm is the first MVNO to receive a dedicated number series (0712) from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), marking a significant milestone in the country’s telecommunications industry.

With its new feat of completing interconnectivity with all major network operators in Nigeria, all Vitel Wireless subscribers can now make and receive calls with users on MTN Nigeria, Airtel Nigeria, Globacom (Glo), and 9mobile Nigeria.

The breakthrough also marks the first time an MVNO in the country has successfully interconnected

with all the major MNOs, setting a new precedent for Nigeria’s telecom sector.

Following the NCC’s licensing of 46 MVNOs, Vitel Wireless continues to lead the way in establishing a dynamic MVNO sector in Nigeria, Africa’s largest market and most populous nation.

The company has already achieved several historic firsts: the first MVNO issued a numbering plan and national and international routing codes, the first to launch a location awareness network in Africa, and the first to unveil a strategic nationwide rollout plan.

“We are gathering momentum for our big launch,” said Kenneth Emeka Nwabueze, MFR, Chairman and CEO of Vitel Wireless. We are proud to be showing what’s possible for MVNOs, while also creating a path for others to follow. By leveraging our years of experience in Nigeria’s telecom industry, we are opening up new possibilities where there

used to be none.”

Interconnectivity was achieved through a combination of direct fiber connections with some MNOs and indirect routing via third-party providers. This milestone was the result of a collaborative effort involving engineers from Vitel Wireless, Wireless Technology Labs (WTL), and Interconnect Clearinghouse Nigeria (ICN), working closely with engineers from MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile.

“We wish to thank the regulatory agency, the Nigerian Communications Commission, for their timely interventions and guidance, which were instrumental in achieving this interconnectivity and bringing the formal launch of the Vitel Wireless nationwide network one step closer to reality,” said Nwabueze.

Vitel Wireless entered a nationwide pilot phase in May 2025, with plans for a full rollout in July 2025, aiming to deliver next-generation mobile services to millions across Nigeria.

Parallex Bank Appoints Rachel Akhuetie as Non-Executive Director

Parallex Bank Limited has announced the appointment of Mrs Rachel Akhuetie, a seasoned executive with over 24 years of multi-sector experience, as Non-Executive Director and member of its Board of Directors.

Akhuetie currently serves as Executive Director, Finance, Commercial, and Services at SunTrust Atlantic Energies Limited, bringing a rich portfolio of expertise in finance, oil and gas operations, strategic innovation, corporate governance, and banking.

A Harvard Business Schooltrained executive and Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (FCA),

Mrs Akhuetie has played transformative leadership roles since joining SunTrust Atlantic in 2003. She has significantly influenced areas such as joint venture coordination, asset management, stakeholder engagement, and organisational growth strategy.

She is also an alumna of Stanford Graduate School of Business and holds certifications in Risk & Compliance Management and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). Mrs Akhuetie’s impressive board experience extends across multiple companies in the energy and oil and gas sector, where SunTrust Atlantic

maintains strategic interests. Welcoming her to the Board, Dr. Olufemi Bakre, Managing Director of Parallex Bank Limited, described the appointment as a significant advantage to Parallex Bank. According to Bakre, Mrs. Akhuetie’s depth of expertise in finance, strategic innovation, and corporate leadership aligns perfectly with Parallex Bank’s mission of redefining banking standards in Nigeria. “We are excited to leverage her proven track record and leadership insight as we continue to drive growth and sustainable value for all stakeholders.” Said Bakre.

Mandilas Highlights Economic Milestones in Nigeria at 75th Anniversary

Celebrating its 75 years of operation in Nigeria, Mandilas Group Limited said it has played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s economy, contributing to various sectors, and fostering growth.

Group Chief Executive Officer, Mandilas Group Limited, Ms. Ola Debayo-Doherty, said this at the weekend at the company’s anniversary thanksgiving service titled, ‘75 Years of Excellence: Grace & Gratitude’

Tracing the historic journey of the company, Debayo-Doherty noted that, Mandilas Group, founded in 1950, has evolved from a small business to a leading player in its industry.

According to her, over the past

75 years, the company has grown, adapted, and evolved to meet the changing needs of customers, while maintaining its commitment to excellence.

She reflected on the company’s rich history spanning back to the 1950s. She emphasised that the thanksgiving gathering was not merely a ceremonial event but a moment to express gratitude for the journey that has led to Mandilas’ enduring presence in Nigeria. She painted a vivid picture of Lagos half a century ago, recalling how the area was primarily water and devoid of modern infrastructure, highlighting the absence of freedom under colonial rule.

She credited the company’s

founder, John Basil Mandilas, the first naturalised Nigerian, for his vision that paved the way for Mandilas to thrive in a post-colonial environment.

She assured all stakeholders that the company remains deeply rooted in Nigerian values.

According to her, the company’s contributions to Nigeria’s economy are substantial, with a significant impact on employment, revenue generation, and economic development. “Mandilas has demonstrated a commitment to innovation, adapting to changing market trends and consumer needs while maintaining its legacy as a trusted business partner,” Debayo-Doherty said.

KENNA Convenes Infrastructure Colloquium in Enugu to Address Financing Gaps

Nigerian commercial law firm, KENNA, is set to contribute to bridging the financing gaps in national infrastructure development at a colloquium scheduled for June 5, 2025, in Enugu, with the theme: “Support Mechanisms for Infrastructure Development and Financing.”

The colloquium will convene business leaders and key stakeholders in the public and private sectors to explore practical approaches to unlocking capital, managing

project risks, and leveraging innovative support mechanisms to accelerate infrastructure development in Nigeria and across the region.

Commenting on the significance of the colloquium, the Managing Partner of KENNA, Ituah Imhanze, stated: “This colloquium comes at a critical time when infrastructure gaps continue to widen across the country. We believe that with the right support mechanisms and financing models, Nigeria can unlock the full potential

LEADERSHIP BREAKFAST SESSION

L-R: Member, Africa Product Leadership Accelerator (Africa PLA), Osarugbe Awani; Chairman, Committee of e-Business Industry Heads (CeBIH)/Chief Partnership Officer, Wema Bank Plc, Ajibade Laolu-Adewale; Vice Chairman, CeBIH/Group Head, eBusiness, Premium Trust Bank, Abidemi Asunmo and member, Africa PLA, Nkem Nweke, during the Product Leadership Upskilling Breakfast Session to mark the 2025 World Product Day hosted by CeBIH Academy in partnership with PLA in Lagos… recently

of its infrastructure sector. Infrastructure development goes beyond just roads and bridges; it is about creating jobs, opening up communities, and building real, lasting impact. That is the calibre of conversation to expect at the colloquium.”

Nigeria faces a significant infrastructure gap, with experts, including the Infrastructure Bank Plc, estimating that the country will require over $3 trillion over the next 30 years to close it.

Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi

(Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic

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

Stock Market Commences June Positive, Gains N172bn on Demand for MTN

Kayode Tokede

The Nigerian stock market yesterday commenced the trading activities for the month of June, 2025 on a positive note as gains in MTN Nigeria Communications (MTNN) Plc and 22 others pulled the market capitalisation up by N172 billion.

As MTN Nigeria Communications appreciated by 3.18per cent, the Nigerian Exchange Limited All-Share Index (NGX ASI) up by

273.95 basis points or 0.25 per cent to close at 112,015.96 basis points from 111,742.01basis points it closed for trading last week.

Also, market capitalisation rose by N172 billion to close at N70.635 trillion from N70.462 trillion it opened for trading this week.

Market breadth was negative, with 33 decliners outweighing 23 gainers, indicating that the bullish sentiment was narrow and not broadly supported across sectors.

Multiverse Mining & Exploration

emerged the highest price gainer of 9.87 per cent to close at N8.35, per share.

Livestock Feeds followed with a gain of 9.57 per cent to close at N10.30, while Lasaco Assurance rose by 8.11 per cent to close at N2.80, per share. NEIMETH International Pharmaceuticals declined by 8.06 per cent to close at N3.35, while Royal Exchange advanced by 7.50 per cent to close at 86 kobo, per share.

On the other side, Legend

Internet led others on the losers’ chart with 9.90 per cent to close at N5.55, per share. Secure Electronic Technology followed with a decline of 9.84 per cent to close at 55 kobo, while eTranzact International shed 9.56 per cent to close at N6.15, per share.

University Press lost 9.32 per cent to close at N5.35, while McNichols depreciated by 7.31 per cent to close at N2.41, per share.

Also, the total volume traded declined by 73.12 per cent to 517.950

million units, valued at N10.070 billion, and exchanged in 17,019 deals. Transactions in the shares of Fidelity Bank led the activity with 98.820 million shares worth N1.878 billion. Royal Exchange followed with account of 58.445 million shares valued at N50.242 million, while Access Holdings traded 55.165 million shares valued at N1.207 billion.

Cutix traded 32.261 million shares worth N101.048 million, while United Capital traded 27.178 million

shares worth N534.385 million. Looking forward, United Capital said, “the equities market might be mildly positive leading to a slight gain in the ASI. This is hinged on the market benefiting from the spillover effect of excess liquidity in the financial system. Similarly, investors might start positioning for Q2-earning season in June, favoring corporates with FX gains, cost control, clear growth trajectory, and those with potentials for quality interim dividend payment.

PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF JUNE/2/25

www.thisdaylive.com

A REGIME OF PRUDENCE AND ACCOUNTABILITY

Uba Sani has steered the state in the right direction, writes JASMIL ABUBAKAR

See page 21

STEERING IMO STATE FORWARD

ORURUO SAMUEL

OKECHUKWU writes why Ikedi Ohakim deserves a second chance

See page 21

opinion@thisdaylive.com

The times demand extraordinary leadership, reckons TUNDE OLUSUNLE

OBASANJO, ATIKU AND TINUBU AT A TIME LIKE THIS

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo was in his farmhouse address in Otta, Ogun State during the last weekend of January 2002. It was supposed to be a short get-away from work in Abuja where he was routinely out of bed before 6am and rarely retired before 2am the next morning. But work followed him to Otta, salient files from his Abuja office shipped over. Some of his senior aides and public officers also stopped by. From Otta, he was scheduled to undertake a two-day official visit to Katsina State. It was part of his countrywide tours, appraising the permeation of tangible dividends of democracy to Nigerians at all levels. I was on Obasanjo’s staff and had proceeded from Abuja on the advance team to tidy up preparations and to receive him. Sunday January 27, 2002, the evening before his scheduled departure from Otta en route Lagos to Katsina, however, unprecedented, massive explosions occurred in Lagos. The air was thick with uncertainty. Where could this earth-quaking "bombings" have taken place? Was it precedent to a coup to topple the nascent Obasanjo government?

The security ring around the President decided to be proactive. With the pervading confusion, the wisest probable thing to do was to move the President to safety, just in case it was a putsch. Should he be flown back to Abuja through Lagos? Should he drive to neighbouring Benin Republic as guest of his Beninoise counterpart? The genetically strong-willed Obasanjo would rather await security briefing. He wasn't going anywhere, he said. Reports came in to the effect that the mishap occurred at the *Abalti Barracks, Ikeja Cantonment,* in Lagos. It occurred at the armoury of the military facility, where high calibre explosives were improperly stored. The tragedy claimed well over 1000 casualties, military and civilian. It displaced over 20,000, as it spread rapidly to adjoining districts and communities. Obasanjo had to be persuaded by his personal physician to get some sleep because of his loaded schedule ahead the following day. He stayed up, eyes wide open late into the night.

Obasanjo began his day on Monday January 28, 2002, at the Ikeja Cantonment. He toured the site of the occurrence and the adjoining areas which were flattened by the detonations and held a meeting with the military commanders. He considered rescheduling the Katsina trip in sympathy with the casualties. He was reminded by his protocol officials, however, that the Katsina visit had earlier been scheduled and cancelled because of the unavailability of the Governor of the state at the time, Umaru Musa Yar'Adua. Yar'Adua who succeeded Obasanjo in 2007, was abroad for a long

spell, on cogent medical grounds. Before a sullenfaced Obasanjo addressed his hosts in Katsina when he eventually arrived, he called for two minutes of silence in memory of those that died in the Ikeja incident, and to empathise with the injured and displaced.

Ehigie Edobor Uzamere who represented Edo South Senatorial District in the seventh and eighth national assemblies, is 70. An elaborate event has been laid out to commemorate the landmark in Benin City, the Edo State capital. Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, GCON, is one of the very high profile dignitaries who was expected to grace the high profile programme. Reports indicate that members of Atiku's entourage received reminders, detailing his itinerary. However, the Office of the Former Vice President put out the following statement:

*Cancellation of Benin Trip Due to Recent National Tragedies: *I write to inform you that His Excellency Atiku Abubakar, GCON, Waziri Adamawa, Vice President of Nigeria, (1999-2007), has reflected on the twin national tragedies in Niger and Kano States, where flooding and road traffic accidents have respectively claimed the lives of several Nigerians. In the light of this, he has decided to CANCEL his planned trip to Benin City, Edo State, June 1, 2025. This is to enable him mourn and pay his respects to the victims and their families.* The statement was signed by Yahaya Ibrahim Zango, Principal Private Secretary to the former Vice President.

It is important to provide this background as counterpoint to the momentary retirement of President Bola Tinubu to Lagos for some official engagements, and the observance of the forthcoming *Eid-el-Kabir* festival. Tinubu left Abuja on Tuesday May 27, 2025, to attend a string of programmes. According to the press statement which announced his movements, he will remain in Nigeria's old capital city until the conclusion of the *ileya* event on Monday June 9, 2025. To this extent, he will be away from Abuja for two weeks. Thus far, the President has attended ceremonies commemorating the 50th anniversary of the setting up of the Economic Community of West African States, (ECOWAS). He is equally commissioning and inspecting projects completed or initiated by his administration, to mark the second year anniversary of his presidency.

Before Tinubu's departure from Abuja, he had been duly briefed about recent heightened attacks and incursions into parts of the North East,

especially Borno State, which has been troubled by insurgents, for several years. He was acquainted about renewed, genocidal-scale killings in parts of the North Central, especially Benue and Plateau states. Bandits and miscreants have equally recently unsettled the peace and quiet of the Yorubaspeaking section of Kogi State, Okunland, across its six local government areas. Flooding in Niger State, also in the Middle Belt region, has claimed over 100 lives and disconnected parts of Nigeria's North and South West, by the collapse of the allimportant North-South bridge in Mokwa, in Niger State. Similarly, 22 members of the Kano State contingent to the recently concluded National Sports Festival in Ogun State, were consumed in an automobile mishap. The President’s prototype message of commiseration, and his directives to relevant departments of government to step in and provide succour in these various instances, is in the public space.

While spontaneous press releases and phone calls have their places in state administration, nothing compensates for that essential human touch, that conscientious empathy, in circumstances and periods of grave nationwide anguish such as we are in. The nation's streets are lacquered by the blood of innocents, across our luminous geographical perimeters. The belly of the earth chokes and suffers reflux beneath the tonnages of unceasing and ill-timed cadavers it daily receives. *Death, to borrow from the evergreen lyrics of the revered, veteran Yoruba music artist, Ebenezer Obey, has become "two for half a penny.* Communities are displaced by the intolerable activities of rampagers and marauders, echoing memories of the 30-month bitter civil war which our country survived between 1967 and 1970. The living and medical conditions of internally displaced persons, (IDPs) in Benue State for example, are better not discussed. Yet, one generation of Nigerian toddlers bred and raised in those hovels, have never glimpsed another home, another community.

Times like this call for true, sincere leadership. Times like this demand way beyond the commandist outsourcing of responsibilities to scheduled appointees. They demand beyond monarchystyle overlordship as Nigerians perceive their leaders. They call for proactive and compassionate leadership.

Olusunle, PhD, Fellow of the Association of Nigerian Authors, (FANA), is an Adjunct Professor of Creative Writing at the University of Abuja

Uba Sani has steered the state in the right direction, writes JASMIL ABUBAKAR

A REGIME OF PRUDENCE AND ACCOUNTABILITY

A confident Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State publicly declared on Wednesday night that, like a few others out of the 36 governors of the federation, he has not taken a single farthing from anywhere and anybody in form of loan as governor for the two years he has been in the saddle. This is so commendable. It is the direct result of a fiscal code that combines prudence, discipline, cost cutting, a heightened IGR drive and accountability.

In a chest thumping mode, Governor Uba Sani, basking in the successes recorded by his administration in the last 24 months, disclosed that he has not collected a single loan from any local or international financial institution since he assumed office. He stated this while fielding questions from some Kaduna-based broadcast journalists in Hausa, as part of the celebration of his two years in office.

Interestingly, in March 2024, Governor Sani revealed that he was finding it difficult to pay salaries because the state was reeling under the weight of accumulated debts and loans which he inherited from the previous administration of Mallam Nasir el- Rufai.

Speaking then at a Town Hall Meeting, Governor Uba Sani said the government actually needed to borrow to be able to pay workers’ salaries. The debt burden includes $587m, N85b and N115b contractual liabilities. He, however, declared that despite the financial challenges, his administration was resolute in steering the state towards progress and sustainable development.

Analysing the state’s finances, the governor said, “What we received from the federal allocation in Kaduna this month was N3.6 billion out of over N10 billion. The sum of N7.5 billion was deducted from our allocation to service debts.

“We cannot pay salaries without borrowing. Our salary bill is N5.2 billion. We will have to borrow N2 billion to be able to pay salaries.” That was the mountain he had to climb as the state’s Chief Executive Officer. That, and other financial constraints invariably brought out the best in him in terms of financial engineering, fiscal responsibility and accountability.

Governor Sani has this to say then: “Despite the huge debt burden of 587 million Dollars, 85 billion Naira, and 115 billion Naira contractual liabilities sadly inherited from the previous administration, we remain resolute in steering Kaduna State towards progress and sustainable development.

“We have conducted a thorough assessment of our situation and are sharpening our focus accordingly. It gladdened my heart to inform you that, despite the huge inherited debt on the state, till date, we have not borrowed a single kobo.”

It is heartwarming to note that so far he has successfully steered the state in the right direction. According to Governor Uba Sani, several banks had approached him to collect loans under different guises but he refused to accede to their requests because he doesn’t want to sink the state into further debt.

The governor disclosed that he cut the allowances and some perks of his Secretary to the State Government and Commissioners and other senior government functionaries in order to run an efficient administration.

‘’The Secretary to the State Government is a retired federal Permanent Secretary, who is also a former consultant with Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO). Some of my commissioners were receiving big salaries in their former places of work. I persuaded them to forfeit their performance bonuses and to use the old cars that their predecessors used in the last administration. This is how we have been running the administration without collecting a single loan,’’ he added.

This aside, Governor Uba Sani also leveraged his contacts and the connections that he made during his career as a Human Rights activist and as a Senator, to secure grants from donor agencies. As an example, he named the Qatar Charity which is constructing the Kaduna Economic City and embarking on a mass housing project at the Millennium City. Today, in a developing country like Nigeria where many states grapple with economic challenges, Kaduna State has emerged as a beacon of fiscal responsibility, prudence and innovative governance marked by financial discipline under the leadership of Governor Sani. Admittedly, his multifaceted approach to steer the state towards economic stability without resorting to borrowing is a feat that is increasingly rare in the current economic climate. His strategies, which include cutting the cost of governance, enhancing the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), and leveraging external grants, have collectively contributed to a more resilient and sustainable economic framework for Kaduna State.

One of the most significant steps taken by Governor Uba Sani was the implementation of stringent cost-cutting measures across various sectors of governance. Recognizing that a bloated bureaucracy can drain state resources, Sani has focused on streamlining government operations. This has involved reducing unnecessary expenditures, optimizing resource allocation, and eliminating wasteful practices that have historically plagued public administration in Nigeria.

By prioritizing efficiency, Governor Uba Sani has been able to redirect funds towards critical areas such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure development. This reallocation not only enhances service delivery but also fosters public trust in the government. The governor’s commitment to transparency and accountability has further reinforced this trust, encouraging citizens to support his initiatives and participate in the governance process.

A cornerstone of Uba Sani’s economic strategy, worthy of mentioning has been the aggressive enhancement of Kaduna State’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). Understanding that reliance on federal allocations can be precarious, Sani has sought to diversify the state’s revenue streams. His administration has implemented various reforms aimed at improving tax collection and broadening the tax base.

One of the key initiatives has been the digitization of tax collection processes, which has significantly reduced leakages and improved efficiency. By leveraging technology, the state has been able to track tax compliance more effectively and ensure that all eligible citizens contribute their fair share.

Furthermore, the governor has actively sought to promote local businesses and attract investments the establishment of business-friendly policies and incentives. This has encouraged both local and foreign investors to explore opportunities in Kaduna State, thus further bolstering the state’s IGR.

Abubakar, a financial and economic analyst, writes from Abuja

ORURUO SAMUEL OKECHUKWU writes why Ikedi Ohakim deserves a second chance

STEERING IMO STATE FORWARD

As Imo State moves toward another electoral cycle, the political atmosphere is thick with rhetoric, recycled promises, and a familiar cast of contenders. Among them is former Governor Ikedi Ohakim (2007–2011), whose name elicits both admiration and critique. But in a time when Nigeria’s democracy is in search of not just fresh faces but functional governance, Ohakim’s candidacy demands serious, sober consideration.

This is not a call for nostalgia. Rather, it is a pragmatic case for experience, evolution, and second chances in leadership.

Ohakim’s first term was marked by bold ambition. His administration created over 30,000 jobs through the Imo Road Maintenance Agency (IROMA), employed 10,000 graduates in 2008, and hired 5,000 teachers. Infrastructure-wise, he initiated major projects like the Imo Free Way and the Inner Ring Road, while promoting rural development and environmental renewal.

Yet, his administration was not without controversy. The most significant was the 2009 N18.5 billion bond, intended to fund transformative projects such as the Oguta Wonder Lake tourism initiative. While the intent was commendable, implementation fell short, and the project remains unfinished. Allegations of financial mismanagement emerged, leading to EFCC investigations—but ultimately, no convictions followed.

Another, perhaps more damaging episode, came not from policy failure but from disinformation. In 2010, Ohakim was falsely accused of ordering the arrest and flogging of a Catholic priest. The story, spread rapidly and amplified by powerful clerical voices—including Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka—triggered widespread outrage in a predominantly Catholic state. The Catholic Church became a rallying point against his reelection.

Years later, Fr. Mbaka publicly recanted, admitting that the priest involved had confessed the incident was fabricated. Even more troubling, a political strategist, Austin Ajero, claimed to have orchestrated the lie as part of a campaign to discredit Ohakim and turn the Church against him. The damage, however, was already done. Ohakim lost the 2011 election, not due to corruption or poor performance, but largely due to a deliberate falsehood weaponised through the pulpit.

This saga is more than a footnote—it is a case study in how misinformation and religious influence can distort electoral outcomes. It is also a sobering reminder that public perception is not always grounded in truth.

These events should not be swept aside. But neither should they eclipse the broader picture: Ohakim governed with vision, delivered on employment, and maintained fiscal discipline—leaving N46.6 billion in state reserves, inclusive of assets in the bond market, at the end of his tenure.

Perhaps the most compelling argument for Ohakim’s return is not his past performance, but how he has responded to it. Over the past decade, Ohakim has not merely remained active—he has grown.

Gone is the image of a brash political player. In its place is a statesman who advocates continuity in governance and collaboration across party lines. He has publicly supported initiatives of current Governor Hope Uzodimma and emphasised the importance of finishing inherited projects. His recent political statements reflect a leader more interested in legacy and institutional memory than personal ambition.

Such political maturity is rare. In a landscape where each administration often begins by undoing the work of its predecessor, Ohakim now champions governance rooted in strategic continuity—a principle Nigeria sorely needs.

To fully appreciate Ohakim’s potential return, one must compare. His successor, Rochas Okorocha, entered office with populist flair but exited amid widespread criticism—particularly over unpaid salaries, inconsistent infrastructure development, and the dismantling of job creation frameworks like IROMA.

In contrast, Ohakim’s projects, though some remained incomplete, were strategic and geared toward

long-term economic benefit. His employment policies, while not headline-grabbing, directly addressed unemployment through structured state intervention.

If governance is to be measured by vision, intent, and institutional capacity, then Ohakim’s record holds up against many of his peers.

Nigeria faces cascading challenges: economic uncertainty, youth unemployment, a trust deficit in government, and infrastructural gaps. Imo State is no exception. These are not problems for learners or placeholders—they require leaders who understand the intricacies of statecraft and have demonstrated the capacity to act.

Ohakim’s advantage lies not only in what he did, but in what he has learned. He brings: institutional knowledge of Imo’s governance architecture, established relationships with federal and development actors, humility from past mistakes and documented willingness to do better, political patience that signals maturity, not desperation.

There is something to be said for leaders who return not with grand promises, but with measured purpose and reflective growth.

Skeptics will ask: Why return to the past? The answer is clear—because experience, when paired with reflection, can outperform novelty wrapped in slogans.

Others may cite past controversies. But it is worth noting that no convictions followed the EFCC inquiries, and many allegations surfaced in politically charged moments. In Ohakim’s case, even one of the most damaging episodes—the alleged flogging of a priest—was later revealed to be a lie, crafted by political opponents and regretfully amplified by trusted religious figures.

And then there is the ultimate question: Can he win? While electoral math is always complex, Ohakim’s sustained grassroots presence, the nostalgia some hold for his tenure, and his record of service all suggest he remains a viable contender.

In a time when Nigerian voters are weary of broken promises, recycled slogans, and unproven leadership, Ikedi Ohakim offers something refreshingly grounded: a documented record, an honest appraisal of past missteps, and a renewed commitment to getting governance right.

Leadership should not be about perfection, but progress. Ohakim’s evolution from ambitious governor to reflective statesman suggests a leader who not only understands the job—but who is now better prepared to deliver on it.

In the end, voters must decide not just who promises the most, but who has the capacity, humility, and vision to steer Imo State forward. Sometimes, the best way to advance is not by starting over—but by giving experience the space to finish what it started.

Owerri

Okechukwu writes from

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

RENEWAL FOR ECOWAS AT 50

In spite of challenges, the sub-regional body is worthy of celebration

Conceived as a regional economic integration body 50 years ago, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) was founded with noble objectives. These included working towards the establishment of an economic union to raise the living standards of the people across the sub-region, maintaining and enhancing economic stability and contributing to the progress and development of member-countries. That regional integration and overall economic development came ahead of petty colonial considerations of whether the people spoke English or French was commendable from the beginning. While there have been challenges, the fact that the regional body has endured this far is worth celebrating.

Over this half century, some economic integration has happened. The free movement of persons and goods has progressed above institutional economic integration.

ECOWAS is even more deserving of celebration at a time when most regional blocs elsewhere have come under severe stress. But there are also downsides. While trade, commerce and tourism seem to have progressed reasonably, the economies of the respective countries have been more independent than ever before. The goal of uninterrupted trade flow has also been deterred by civil wars and intra- regional headaches.

One of them was to establish a monetary union across West African countries.

Over this half century, some economic integration has happened. The free movement of persons and goods has progressed above institutional economic integration

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

By the imagination of ECOWAS leaders, a single currency would be used across Anglophone West African countries within a stipulated time-frame. The other West African countries were to join five years later. With overwhelming evidence of limited consensus on key issues and resolutions that had to be made at extra-ordinary meetings where a full house would be more indicative of genuine commitment, it is no surprise that ECOWAS could not deliver on this promise. However, it was both symbolic and significant that ECOWAS commemorated the 50th anniversary in Lagos where its treaty was signed in 1975 and that Yakubu Gowon, the only surviving founding father, was present. “The Treaty of Lagos was more than a legal document; it was a declaration of hope, the formation of a new regional chapter, and a charter of our collective destiny,” Gowon said at the occasion. “We envisioned an ECOWAS that would break artificial borders created by colonial administrators, facilitate trade, enable the free movement of people, and promote a culture of peace, understanding, and dialogue across our diverse region.”

In more recent times, political instability in some member states as well as jihadist insurgency in the entire Sahel stretch have led to unexpected regime changes and sabre-rattling. For instance, there have been military takeover in Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso, Niger and Chad. This has led to obvious political schism in ECOWAS with the exit of two of the founding members. Consequently, the envisioned unity of purpose has been more difficult to achieve. Besides, ECOWAS has in recent years designed many programmes meant to aggregate the benefits of economic integration within the sub-region for the good of member-countries without achieving such lofty objectives.

EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE T H I S

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA

GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE

DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI

SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI

CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI

DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO

TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

Going forward, ECOWAS leaders must understand that it is one thing to sign treaties and regional agreements and quite another to settle down to the serious business of impactful governance. We note with dismay, for instance, the subsisting practice of using foreign economic consultants for tasks that Africans can handle. ECOWAS leaders must understand that development and regional integration are, first and foremost, about nurturing human capital to create a hub of capacities. Invariably, success is being measured by the number of meetings and resolutions, rather than by concrete achievements that impact the people.

Therefore, as President Bola Tinubu, who currently chairs the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government, reminded his colleagues last week, the golden jubilee of the regional body should not just be for celebration. It should also be a moment of renewal.

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.

POWER SHIFTS, PUBLIC SENTIMENT, AND THE OPPOSITION IN 2027

As the 2027 general elections draw closer, Nigeria’s political landscape is beginning to shift. Political parties are actively exploring mergers and alliances, hoping to bolster their chances at the polls. While the current administration appears to be in a strong position, the opposition should not be discounted.

Drawing from the Mendelow Stakeholder Matrix, one thing is clear: political power is fluid. Influence and interest are not fixed—they rise and fall with prevailing conditions. A coalition of individuals with limited clout can, when united by a shared goal, become a powerful political force. This reality underscores the importance for the ruling party to remain vigilant, as stakeholder dynamics can change rapidly and unpredictably.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has recently gained momentum through a wave of high-profile defections, with indications that more are on the way. While this strengthens the party's numerical advantage, some political observers are warning of an emerging one-party dominance—an unsettling development for Nigeria’s democratic health. Meanwhile, opposition parties are attempting to project resilience,

downplaying the impact of the defections and positioning themselves as still relevant.

Yet, beyond party strategy and political alignments, it is the daily realities of Nigerians that will likely determine the outcome of the 2027 election. With economic hardship, inflation, unemployment, and widespread insecurity continuing to plague the nation, voter frustration is palpable. If these conditions persist, the administration may face backlash—not from rival politicians, but from the electorate itself, through protest votes. These are not necessarily votes of confidence in the opposition, but expressions of dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs.

Unlike opposition candidates who can campaign on promises and potential, incumbents are judged by tangible outcomes. President Tinubu’s administration must contend with the burden of proof. The opposition can run on hope; the government must run on results. Political grandstanding will not be enough—Nigerians are seeking visible, meaningful improvements in their quality of life.

To solidify its position, the administration must focus on delivering real solutions. The recent dip in food prices is

encouraging, but more sustained actions are required to reduce the cost of living. Inflation control, a stronger Naira. Improved security and job creation should also be on the front burner. Equally important is transparent and consistent communication of achievements. Citizens must be able to see and feel the progress being made. Leaders must also avoid divisive rhetoric and foster unity in both speech and action.

While President Tinubu currently appears to be the frontrunner, Nigeria’s political environment is anything but predictable. A fragmented opposition could find strength in unity, and more critically, a disillusioned electorate could become the most formidable opposition of all, choosing change not in protests, but at the ballot box.

Bringing prominent figures into the APC may offer a temporary edge, but true political strength in 2027 will come from earning the trust and confidence of the people. Ultimately, it is the people’s welfare and perception that will determine the outcome of the next election.

Kenechukwu Aguolu, kenerek1@gmail.com

The total revenue collected by electricity Distribution Companies (Discos) operating in Nigeria slumped by a whopping N76.8 billion in March this year, representing about 29 per cent of their total expected receipts for the month.

This development is coming amid the growing number of high networth customers, both individual consumers and companies, dumping the services of the power distributors for alternative sources due to epileptic power supply.

Data covering the commercial performance of the Discos made available by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) for the month under consideration, showed that out of the N265.77

Blessing

Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Federal Government to launch investigations into the activities of a global shipping giant, the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) in the country.

The stakeholders under the auspices of the Citizens Whistleblowers Coalition (CWC) suggested that the shipping firm should be probed on two key areas of undermining the country’s judicial system and sabotaging the economy.

Speaking in Port Harcourt at the weekend, the coalition’s, Programme Investigation, Nafiu Ibrahim; Project Officer, Government Laiason, Ella Susan and Programme Officer,

billion billed to customers for the month, only N188.89 billion was collected by the Discos, about 71 per cent of expected earnings.

In addition, while total energy received by the Discos for the month was 2,886.72Gwh, total energy billed was 2,318.12Gwh, representing about 80.3 per cent billing efficiency.

Generally, Nigeria’s electricity revenue collection problem stems from the persistent inability of distribution companies to recover the full value of the electricity they supply. A major factor is low collection efficiency, with companies often recovering only a fraction of what they bill.

This has been worsened by widespread estimated billing, as many consumers remain unmetered and dispute charges they believe are

Socio-Economic Rights, Owhonda Nwakanma, said they were worried that MSC had devised a means to stop indigenous companies from litigating admiralty matter against it in Nigeria.

They recalled that in February following legal actions brought against MSC at the Federal High Court by the Interglobal Technologies over N49million demurrage, the company obtained an ex parte anti-suit injunction in a High Court in London.

They said: “The anti-suit injunction seeks to stop the Nigerian company from litigating an admiralty matter against MSC in Nigeria. MSC is basically asserting in London that they cannot be sued in Nigerian courts for infraction

inaccurate. Besides, electricity theft through illegal connections and meter bypassing further reduces revenue.

Another issue is that of poor infrastructure, leading to frequent outages and discouraging customers from paying for unreliable service. In addition, tariffs are often set below cost-reflective levels, meaning even full payments might not cover operating costs.

There is also the problem of weak enforcement mechanisms, which make it difficult for companies to penalise non-paying customers as large unpaid debts from government agencies also contribute significantly to the collection gap. The cumulative effect is a liquidity crisis that hampers investment, reduces service quality, and destabilises the entire electricity value chain.

The NERC March data further

arising from shipping services rendered to Nigerians in Nigeria.

“In the action filed in London with Suit No: CL-2024-000700, MSC is alleging that there is an exclusive jurisdiction clause in their terms of engagement which gives the High Court in London the exclusive jurisdiction over shipping services rendered to Nigerians and Nigerian companies in Nigeria.

“It is learned that this exclusive jurisdiction clause gives MSC the right to take Nigerians or Nigerian companies anywhere in the world to enforce a claim against them. However, Nigerians or Nigerian companies dissatisfied with MSC’ shipping services can only take MSC to the High Court in London.

“The idea and insistence that

indicated that the high-fliers versus the laggards trend continued in the sector during the period, with Eko and Ikeja Discos having a near tie of N41.24 billion and N41.18 billion bill respectively, but with a collection of N36.6 billion and N33.3 billion separately.

Besides, Abuja Disco came third in terms of total revenue, raking in N31.76 billion revenue out of a total amount billed of N35.67 billion for the month of March.

But in terms of collection efficiency, Abuja Disco came tops with 89.03 per cent, Eko was 88.76 per cent, while Enugu was 88.47 per cent, with a collection of N15.88 billion out of N17.95 billion billed to customers . Ikeja had a collection efficiency of 88.99 per cent during the period.

However, the least collectors were: Aba Disco, which got N3.47

Nigerians and Nigerian companies can only sue MSC in London for services rendered in Nigeria is a cause for concern. It is a spite on Nigeria’s sovereignty and a calculated attempt to undermine Nigerian laws and civil justice system”.

But the whistleblower said the Nigerian law is clear on the admiralty jurisdiction of the Federal High Court in admiralty matters connected with Nigeria adding that Section 20 of the Nigeria Admiralty Jurisdiction Act provides that parties cannot take away the jurisdiction of the Nigeria court to entertain an admiralty matter where the place of delivery is in Nigeria or any of the parties reside in Nigeria.

billion out of N6.44 billion billed, representing a 53.9 per cent collection efficiency; Jos Disco, which collected N7 billion out of N12.56 billion billed, representing 55.7 per cent collection efficiency as well as Kano which got N7.83 billion out of N12.61 billion billed. This represented 62 per cent billing efficiency.

In general, NERC has attributed the persistent collection inefficiencies to factors such as inadequate metering, electricity theft, and customer dissatisfaction due to unreliable power supply. These challenges, it said, contribute to revenue shortfalls, affecting the financial viability of the power sector.

Aside from the aforementioned factors, another issue that is impacting the overall revenue of the Discos is the exit of several high paying consumers and companies, who have

They said: “This provision seeks to protect Nigerians when dealing with unreasonable shipping giants that would want to undermine the civil justice system in Nigeria. In this regard, the law preserves the jurisdiction of Nigeria courts in admiralty matters where the place of delivery is in Nigeria or where any of the parties reside in Nigeria.

“It is only common sense for Nigerian court to exercise jurisdiction over shipping services rendered in Nigeria. It is not clear why MSC is asserting that the High Court in London should deal with a case based on an alleged exclusive jurisdiction clause which if exists has been rendered null and void by Nigeria law.

“We consider it our patriotic

found other sources of power supply. A significant number of Nigerian companies and institutions have disconnected from the national electricity grid due to persistent power supply issues and rising tariffs. This shift towards self-generated power is increasingly reshaping the country’s energy landscape. Several hundreds of organisations, including even the seat of power, Aso Rock, have or are planning to transition to self-generation. Collectively, they are producing around 6,500 megawatts, surpassing the national grid’s current capacity. In the manufacturing sector, more than 60 per cent of companies have exited the national grid, opting for self-generation due to unreliable power supply, which has increased production costs and affected competitiveness.

duty, to alert the Honourable Attorney General, the security agencies, the judiciary, other regulatory agencies, including the FIRS, the National Assembly among others of the dangers being posed to our country where a foreign multi national company, that derives over $2bn annual revenues from our country uses those revenues to undermine our legal system, and oppress Nigerians after collecting excess demurrage costs, container deposits, delaying their cargoes for months without apologies, not putting out their conditions of carriage on their website against FCCPC Act”.

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Griffin: Values-driven Leadership, Next Generation Empowerment Key to Sustainable Enterprise

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, effective leadership is more critical than ever. Organisations are constantly seeking innovative ways to develop leaders who can navigate complex challenges, inspire their teams, and drive sustainable growth. At the forefront of this movement is the Maxwell Leadership Foundation, a renowned organisation dedicated to empowering leaders around the world. Vice-President of Global Programmes, John Griffin, has been instrumental in shaping the foundation’s initiatives, including the iLead Leadership Programme, which has been making a significant impact in Nigeria. With a strong emphasis on values-driven leadership, the programme is designed to equip young people with the skills, character, and vision necessary to succeed in an increasingly complex world. Griffin shares his insights on leadership development, the importance of values in business, and the future of leadership in Nigeria and beyond in this exclusive interview with MARY

NNAH

What inspired the Maxwell Leadership Foundation to bring the iLead Leadership Programme to Nigeria?

Nigeria’s vibrant youth population holds immense potential for leadership and societal transformation.

Recognising this, we introduced the iLead programme to empower young Nigerians with values-based leadership skills, aiming to nurture a generation capable of driving positive change across Africa and beyond.

What is the core mission of the iLead programme, and how does it align with the needs of Nigerian students today?

Our mission is “To add value to students and educational leaders who multiply value to others.” So, in the context of iLead, its mission is to instill core values such as integrity, responsibility, and respect in students, equipping them to lead themselves and others effectively. In Nigeria, where youth face challenges like unemployment and social instability, iLead offers tools to build character, resilience, and a sense of purpose, aligning with their aspirations for a better future.

How has the programme been received so far by Nigerian schools, educators, and students?

The iLead programme has been met with enthusiasm and positive feedback from both government-schools and private schools. The Lagos State Government through its Ministry of Basic Education is a key partner on the project. It has adopted the iLead Programme for all Senior Secondary schools in Education District VI with plans to extend to two additional districts next academic session.

Students there have demonstrated significant personal growth, embracing values such as integrity and responsibility. Educators have observed increased student engagement and a proactive approach to community involvement. One notable outcome is the initiation of studentled projects aimed at addressing local challenges, reflecting the programme’s emphasis on practical leadership and social responsibility. These developments underscore the programme’s effectiveness in nurturing a new generation of values-driven leaders in Nigeria.

In what other countries is the iLead Program being implemented?

Beyond Nigeria, iLead has been implemented in various countries, including Rwanda, Uganda, and throughout South America and the United States. Each implementation is tailored to the local context, ensuring cultural relevance while maintaining the program’s core values.

Why does the Maxwell Leadership Foundation place such a strong emphasis on values-based leadership, especially for young people?

Because leadership without values is dangerous. At the Maxwell Leadership Foundation, we believe, like John Maxwell teaches, that values aren’t just an ingredient of leadership, they are the foundation. Skills can take you far, but values determine where you end up and who you take with you. When young people learn values like integrity, respect, and responsibility early, they’re more equipped to make wise decisions, build trust, and lead with moral clarity. It echoes that famous quote often attributed to Teddy Roosevelt: “To educate a person in mind and not in morals is to educate a menace to society.” These students aren’t just the future; they’re leading now, in their classrooms, families, and communities. We want to help them lead well because when values guide leadership, everyone wins.

How can parents, teachers, and mentors help nurture the natural leadership potential of young people? They can model the values they wish to see, provide opportunities for youth to take on responsibility, and offer guidance without dictating every move. Leadership grows in an environment of trust, not control. Encouraging open dialogue and supporting youth-led initiatives fosters confidence and helps young people step into their potential.

As the Nigerian proverb says, “A child who is not embraced by the village will burn it down to feel its warmth.” Young leaders don’t just need correction—they need connection. When we surround them with mentorship, example, and encouragement, we light the fire of leadership the right way.

How do values like integrity, responsibility, and respect shape the mindset of a young leader?

In Nigeria today, leadership isn’t just about position, it’s about character. Values like integrity, responsibility, and respect shape the kind of leader a young person becomes long before they ever hold a title. Integrity teaches them to be trustworthy, not just when eyes are on them, but when no one’s watching. Responsibility helps them move from excuses to ownership. And respect?

That’s how they lead in a country as diverse as ours, by listening, learning, and treating every person with dignity.

Someone shared with me a Yoruba proverb that says, “Iwa l’ewa”, character is beauty. And it’s true, character is what makes leadership attractive and lasting. Nigerian youth are bold, smart, and full of potential. When they’re grounded in values, they’re unstoppable, not just in Nigeria, but on the world stage. That’s the kind of leadership that lifts communities and rewrites the future.

What kind of support or partnership is needed to grow the reach and impact of the iLead programme in Nigeria?

Scaling iLead requires collaboration with educational institutions, government agencies, NGOs, and the private sector. Support can range from funding the books for the students to policy advocacy and volunteer engagement, all aimed at embedding the program more deeply into the educational system.

Our implementing partner in Nigeria is the NextGen Leadership Foundation, a dynamic organisation committed to raising a new generation of values-driven, visionary leaders. As the local implementer of the iLead Leadership Program, NextGen brings deep expertise in youth engagement, leadership development, and community empowerment.

As someone with an engineering background, what drew you towards leadership? What sparked your interest? Engineering taught me problem-solving

and analytical skills, but I realized that technical solutions alone aren’t enough. I failed early in my career - I was young and immature. I thought at the time that leadership was about power and telling people what to do. But I quickly learned that effective leadership connects with others as human beings, not human doings that was the key to implement solutions and drive change. This experience sparked my passion for expanding leadership programs like iLead so that young people can learn now and avoid some of the early failures I experienced.

What is your personal message to Nigerian students who are going through the iLead program or are aspiring to be values-driven leaders?

Believe in your potential to affect change. Don’t wait for someone else to lead. YOU lead. Embrace the values you learn, apply them consistently, and don’t be afraid to lead by example. Your voice matters. Your actions can inspire others and contribute to a better Nigeria and a better world.

What defines a true leader, and what does it really take for someone to step into that role?

A true leader isn’t defined by a title, age, or how loud their voice is, but by their ability to serve others, live out their values, and take responsibility for making things better. Leadership isn’t about being in charge, it’s about caring enough to make a difference and being courageous enough to go first.

John C. Maxwell puts it this way: “Leadership is influence, nothing more, nothing less.” But that influence must be rooted in character. True leadership starts on the inside, with who you are when no one’s watching. It takes humility to listen, integrity to do what’s right, and consistency to lead even when it’s hard.

Stepping into leadership doesn’t mean you have all the answers. It means you’re willing to grow, to serve, and to use your voice to lift others. In a world full of noise and ego, real leadership stands out -not because it demands attention, but because it earns trust. Whether you’re leading a classroom, a business, or just your own decisions, if you choose to live by values and serve others, you’re already leading in the way that matters most.

Griffin

DEPARTMENT OF LAND ADMINISTRATION

4, Peace Drive, Central Area, Abuja.

PUBLIC NOTICE

ISSUANCE OF TITLES TO THE BUYERS/PURCHASERS/BENEFICIARIES OF HOUSING UNITS WITHIN MASS HOUSING ESTATES IN THE FCT

Further to our previous publications, all DEVELOPERS OF MASS HOUSING ESTATES with duly executed Development Lease

A

buyers/purchasers/beneficiaries.

All Developers with subsisting interests are hereby notified that the FCTA has fixed a TWO (2) WEEKS period within which they are to forward, to the Department of Land Administration, FCTA, the names of all the buyers/purchasers/beneficiaries and all the required documentations. All Developers are to note that failure to comply within this timeframe may result in the withdrawal of the Lease Agreements.

The FCT Administration will take appropriate steps to ensure that titles are issued to the beneficiaries and that the FCTA receives the fees, rents and charges from the properties within the estates which were deferred in line with the terms and conditions of the Development Lease Agreements executed for mass housing allocations.

For the avoidance of doubts, find below a list of the Mass Housing and Affordable Housing allocations that were issued between 2005 and 2015.

How the Nigerian Air Force is Boosting Morale, Operational Efficiency through Premium on Welfare

The spotlight recently shone on the Nigerian Air Force’a drive on personnel welfare with the significant milestone at the Logistics Command in Lagos, where 160 transit remodelled ensuite flats for airmen and airwomen were officially inaugurated over the weekend. Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that this development is part of a broader welfare agenda championed by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, who has placed a clear premium on welfare as a strategic tool for boosting morale and enhancing operational effectiveness

In today’s complex and ever-evolving security landscape, few things are more vital to a fighting force than the well-being of its personnel. For the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), this truth has been powerfully underscored by the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, who has made welfare including accommodation, a centrepiece of his leadership agenda.

Recognising that decent housing is not merely a benefit but a fundamental enabler of morale and operational efficiency, the CAS has embarked on an ambitious drive to address the housing needs of NAF personnel across the country.

Housing as a Pillar of Combat Readiness

It’s pertinent to state that Air Marshal Abubakar’s approach goes far beyond bricks and mortar as his strategy is grounded in the belief that when personnel are secure and comfortable at home, they are better focused, more cohesive, and far more effective in executing their critical defence responsibilities.

In recent months, the NAF has rolled out a wide array of initiatives aimed at transforming the accommodation landscape for its personnel. The most notable of these came in Lagos, where the CAS commissioned 160 newly remodelled ensuite flats at the Sam Ethnan Air Force Base, Ikeja.

Speaking at the inauguration, Air Marshal Abubakar left no doubt about his priorities.

“I wish to acknowledge that insufficient accommodation has posed a tremendous challenge to the Nigerian Air Force for decades. Let me assure you all that this matter remains a top priority under my leadership,” he said. Indeed, the Lagos project is just one among over 470 infrastructure initiatives launched under the CAS’s leadership, spanning residential, operational, medical, and recreational domains. Of these, approximately 63 per cent have already been completed. In financial terms, these developments represent an investment exceeding N61 billion—an indication of the seriousness with which the Air Force is pursuing its welfare agenda.

From officers’ quarters in Makurdi and Lagos to airmen’s blocks in Kaduna and staff housing for deployed troops in Maiduguri and Bauchi, no location or category of personnel has been left behind. Even in Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) in conflict-affected areas like Borno, Zamfara, and Kaduna, new quarters are being constructed to ensure those on the frontlines enjoy the dignity and comfort they deserve.

Empathy in Action

This people-first strategy has been widely lauded by senior officers, not just for its scope but for its intent. At the Lagos commissioning, the Air Officer Commanding (AOC), Logistics Command, Air Vice Marshal Adeniran Kolade Ademuwagun, emphasised the compassionate leadership underpinning these developments.

He said: “ We welcome the CAS to the commissioning ceremony of another milestone project for the Nigerian Air Force personnel in Lagos. The project being the remodelling of Airmen’s Transit Accommodation Instrument, Sam Ethan Air Force Base, Ikeja, an area that comprises 160 flats and suites.”

“You understand the sorrows of not having accommodation,” he said, directly addressing the CAS. “It shows that in the career of the Chief of Air Staff, empathy has been one of his corner guiding stones. And you can see that throughout his tenure, across formations, units in the country, this has been one of the significant pillars of his administration—provisioning of accommodation, ensuring that men and their families are well cared for.”

He reiterated that this giant stride at addressing the acute shortage of residential quarters for personnel is highly laudable, and as it is essential to the welfare and morale of airmen and airwomen.

The sentiment was echoed in the vote of thanks delivered by Air Vice Marshal Zayyan Abdullah, Chief of Staff, Logistics Command, who expressed gratitude for the CAS’s “strategic vision and unwavering commitment to addressing the challenge of inadequate accommodation—not

only in Lagos but across all Nigerian Air Force formations.”

Beyond Housing: A Comprehensive Welfare Agenda

While accommodation may be a focal point, it is far from the only area seeing transformation under Air Marshal Abubakar, who has unveiled a broader set of welfare initiatives aimed at improving the daily lives of NAF personnel. These include a 100 per cent increase in the Ration Cash Allowance (RCA) in the 2025 budget, the introduction of a new Group Personal Accident Insurance Policy, and the distribution of new uniforms and accoutrements across the service.

“We are equally conscious of the prevailing economic challenges and their impacts on our

personnel’s welfare,” the CAS noted. “I want to assure you that we are actively engaging with the Defence Headquarters to review the Armed Forces Manual of Financial Administration with the goal of enhancing our welfare packages.”

One particularly impactful policy has been the Group Personal Accident Insurance, which provides compensation for bodily injury, temporary or permanent disability, and even death.

“A total of 23 beneficiaries have so far received substantial payouts under this scheme,” Air Marshal Abubakar revealed, underlining the practical benefits already being delivered.

Healthcare and essential services have also received a boost. The Sam

Ethnan Base now benefits from an upgraded electricity subsidy, while the 661 NAF Hospital in Ikeja has acquired new medical equipment to improve healthcare delivery for personnel and their families.

According to the CAS, “We have initiated over 470 infrastructural projects across Nigerian Air Force units nationwide. The last time I was talking to you, I think it was 340—we have since increased that number to 470.

“These projects span residential, operational, sporting, and medical facilities, as well as places of worship. Similarly, we have also invested in essential services including roads, water supply systems, and electricity infrastructure. Of the 470 projects initiated, 295—representing about 63 percent—have been completed, while 175, about 37 percent, are currently ongoing.

“These efforts underscore our unwavering commitment to building a force that is not only operationally capable but also well catered for in all spheres of service life. It is therefore with immense satisfaction that I commission this remodelled Airmen’s Accommodation comprising 160 ensuite flats.

“This remodelled facility will no doubt contribute significantly to improved coordination, esprit de corps, and operational effectiveness within Sam Ethnan Air Force Base. In furtherance of this objective, I have approved an upward review of the monthly electricity subsidy for Sam Ethnan Air Force Base.”

Operational Gains Rooted in Welfare

These welfare gains are not simply ends in themselves. They are tied directly to the operational capabilities of the Air Force, a point repeatedly made by the CAS.

“Your service and sacrifice remain the cornerstone upon which we build a stronger and more capable Air Force,” he told the gathered personnel. “These initiatives reflect a clear commitment to putting people first—boosting morale, strengthening unit cohesion, and building a professional, combat-ready force.”

It is a philosophy that resonates in the air as well as on the ground. In the past year alone, the NAF has flown over 14,000 hours in combat and support missions, executing nearly 10,000 sorties. These included precision night strikes and daytime reconnaissance that have disrupted enemy logistics and neutralised high-value targets. Behind these successes, the CAS emphasises, is a force empowered by a robust and humane welfare policy.

A Charge for Responsibility

While commending the AOC Logistics Command, Chief of Staff and Base Commander, Air Commodore US Umar, for their dedication and oversight in ensuring the timely and quality delivery of this facility, CAS also issued a charge of responsibility.

“I urge you to uphold the highest standards of discipline and professionalism,” he said. “Use this accommodation with care and a deep sense of responsibility. Let it reflect a strong culture of maintenance and pride in your living environment, ensuring it remains a source of comfort and dignity for current and future occupants.”

The CAS also expressed gratitude to the Lagos State government and host community for their ongoing support and hospitality. “The Nigerian Air Force views Lagos State as a critical partner in our shared pursuit of peace and development,” he noted, pledging continued collaboration with local authorities and other security agencies.

In a time where strategic air power is vital to national security, the Nigerian Air Force is proving that its greatest strength lies not just in its aircraft or arsenal, but in the well-being of its people. Through decisive action, empathydriven leadership, and a focus on sustainable infrastructure, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar is setting a new standard for military welfare.

As the newly remodelled flats in Lagos stand ready to welcome their occupants, they undoubtedly symbolise the commitment of a leader that cares. With this welfare boost, the Guardians of the Sky are better equipped to defend the skies and the nation with zeal and pride.

The remodelled 160 flats and suites Airmen’s Transit Accommodation at Sam Ethnan Air Force Base, Ikeja

L-R: Air Officer Commanding (AOC), Logistics Command, Air Vice Marshal Adeniran Ademuwagun; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar; Base Commander, Air Commodore US Umar; Commandant Armed Forces Resettlement Centre Oshodi, Air Vice Marshal Bashiru Mamman; and Squadron Leader Bolaji Okunyigbo, the Command Works Officer

Air Vice Marshal Zayyan Abdullah, Chief of Staff, Logistics Command giving the vote of thanks CAS, Air Marshal Abubakar

hAndOver CeremOny...

NAF Foils Terrorist Attack on Zamfara Communities, Kills over 20 Fighters 25

killed as suspected Fulani herdmen attack Benue community

George Okoh in Makurdi and Linus Aleke in Abuja

The coordinated airstrikes by the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma have killed over 20 armed terrorists and destroyed more than 21 motorcycles during an air interdiction operation in Zamfara State.

The operation, carried out in the general area south of Mai-Galma in the Maru Local Government Area

of the state, was aimed at halting a planned large-scale attack on vulnerable communities by armed bandits.

This was as a brutal attack by suspected Fulani herdsmen on Edikwu Ankpali community in Apa Local Government Area of Benue State has left at least 25 people dead and many others injured.

However, Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian

Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, in a statement noted that intelligence received indicated that a significant number of terrorists were massing and preparing to strike unsuspecting settlements.

Further intelligence, he said, confirmed that the bandits had killed some farmers and abducted a number of civilians, including women and children.

“Consequently, NAF aircraft

PDP: Defections Won’t Decide 2027

The National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Debo Ologunagba, has told the All Progressives Congress (APC), that 2027 would not be about defections.

On the contrary, Ologunagba warned that 2027 would be about Tinubu’s scorecards and policies against Nigerians.

Speaking on a television programme, the PDP spokesman said Tinubu’s administration and the APC celebrated defections as if it

was a success of a policy.

Ologunagba said: “When you find the president of a country in a multi-ethnic and multi-cultural country like Nigeria declaring his preference for a one-party state, that shows that they continue to aggressively attack the processes of other political parties.

“Some of those defections are not passed on conviction; it’s based on coercion because of the stated policy and the intention of the president to say he wants a one-party state. That’s an illusion that is not going

to happen.

“It’s curious and strange that this government celebrated defections as if it’s the success of policies, someone is defecting then you find the whole statecraft bringing forward. You are not doing a scorecard about your policies but how many people have defected.

“APC should be warned. 2027 is not going to be about defections – it’s going to be about your policies, your scorecards against the Nigerian people,” Ologunagba stressed.

Katsina Sets New Operational Guidelines for Private School Owners

Francis Sardauna in Katsina

The Katsina State Government has unveiled new operational guidelines for the establishment and operation of private and community schools in the state in accordance with the global best practices.

The policy document was unveiled at a meeting between government officials, proprietors of private and community schools and other critical stakeholders in the education sector held in Katsina, Monday.

Unveiling the document, the state Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Hajiya Zainab

Musawa, said it was designed to strengthen the operations of private and community schools to meet the educational needs of every child in the state.

She said the operational guidelines address critical areas of teachers’ qualifications, curriculum delivery, compliance with national and state education policies as well as infrastructure to ensure global best practices and local realities.

Noting the state government would not compromise educational standards, the commissioner said the new operational guidelines will further enhance transparency, efficient service

delivery and inclusive framework for school operations.

Musa-Musawa said: “They (guidelines) are designed not to burden you but to empower you to deliver quality education that prepares our children for a competitive world. These guidelines are not static. We are committed to transparency and stakeholder engagement.

“Hence, this guideline is a draft and will be shared with you to foster collaboration and evidence-based improvements. Your feedback is vital to refining these policies. I urge all private and community schools to fully embrace these guidelines.

under Operation Fansan Yamma were immediately dispatched on an armed reconnaissance and possible rescue mission.

“On arrival at the area, over 30 motorcycles carrying armed terrorists heading into the nearby forest were positively identified. On sighting the aircraft, the terrorists opened fire, prompting a precision engagement that led to the destruction of several motorcycles and the neutralisation of dozens of terrorists.

“Ground forces were immediately

mobilised to exploit the situation. They confirmed the destruction of enemy assets and the neutralisation of over 20 terrorists,” he said.

Air Commodore Ejodame regretted that two local vigilantes lost their lives, while two others sustained injuries in the course of the operation.

Meanwhile, the Benue attack, which occurred on Sunday, June 1, has been described as a “Black Sunday” by locals.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing

continuous gunfire for several hours, with little to no intervention from security forces.

“I was in my house when I heard the sound of gunfire,” said a resident, who preferred to remain anonymous. “I ran out of my house and saw people running in all directions. It was a scene of chaos and confusion,” he added. The attack has sparked widespread condemnation, with many criticising the silence of those in positions of power.

I ke: I’m A n A SS e T T o T I nubu’ S Secon D Term bID , b l ASTS Am

celebrant, who served for an unbroken total of 24 years – eight years as Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, eight years as Governor of Rivers State, and eight years as Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“That’s about a quarter of a century of freeloading by Amaechi on state resources, with absolutely no record of attempting to combat poverty in his Rivers State or the country,” he said.

Morka stressed that when Amaechi declared, “I am hungry,” he must be understood to mean that “he is hungry and desperate to return to his felt entitled dependency on state resources and patronage.

“That he is hungry barely two years out of office simply underscores the depth of the self-serving motivations of Amaechi and his coalition partners in their quest for power for selfish exploitation, and not for the interest of the people.

“Nigerians see right through their disruptive politicking. Amaechi and his cohorts are losing their grip on the economy. Accustomed to fleecing the economy, they are now compelled by Tinubu’s unprecedented reforms to adapt to a new reality, where hard work, productivity, and innovation are rewarded,” he said.

The ruling party maintained that their criticisms of Tinubu’s reforms were decidedly self-serving, driven by a desperate quest for power to satiate their voracious rent-seeking appetite, which has long stifled and denied progress to the economy.

He said, ironically, Atiku and Peter Obi, who had become vociferous, criticising Tinubu’s policies, amassed their wealth from the very import-dependent system they were desperately trying to preserve.

The spokesperson noted: “Atiku, a former Custom Officer, and Obi, a successful importer, reaped enormous benefits from the old system. Their criticisms reek of special interest masqueraded as concern for the people.

“By allowing market forces to determine Naira’s value, the administration is taking necessary bold steps to catalyse economic growth, incentivise investment, boost competitiveness, and alleviate poverty.”

The party insisted that in two years, Tinubu’s administration had demonstrated the political will to tackle structural barriers to the country’s economic growth and development far more than any other president in Nigeria’s modern history.

The ruling party stressed that by his bold economic reforms, Tinubu was systematically building the most potent bulwark against poverty and positioning the economy to deliver sustained and sustainable growth and prosperity for all Nigerians.

His words: “The criticisms variously leveled by Amaechi, Atiku, El-Rufai and Peter Obi mask a shameless attempt to perpetuate and cling to the old rent-seeking economy that enriched them at the expense of the Nigerian people.

Morka added that the erstwhile artificially overvalued Naira stifled local production, encouraged import dependency, and exacerbated poverty.

sustained their reckless plunder and exploitation of the economy.”

Dickson Warns against Opposition Conspiracy That Won’t Change Nigeria

A former governor of Bayelsa State, Seriake Dickson, has warned Nigerians to be beware of those that conspired against former Goodluck Jonathan as their conspiracies have yet to change Nigeria and Nigerians. He urged Nigerians to shine their eyes on those who described themselves as conspirators because the last conspiratorial theory from them has not changed anything.

Dickson, in a subtle warning, told his political colleagues to be mindful of the choices they make, adding that their past conspiracy and coalition, which removed the Peoples Democratic Party and Goodluck Jonathan from office in 2015, has not favoured Nigerians.

“When I came in here and climbing up here, I’ve seen a lot of you. And as my brother said, there are a number of you who are expert conspirators, who know how to assemble coalitions and then take out governments, as you did to my party in 2015.

“And when you did so, particularly to a clueless government, so-called, now 11 years down the line, we thought that there would have been no weaponisation of poverty and that all the challenges of Nigeria would have been gone.

“And the only advice I can give, not being a professional coalition builder and conspirator as some of you are, is at this time, shine your eyes.” W

“As beneficiaries of the corrupt and inefficient economic system, they are discomforted that Tinubu’s reforms are dismantling the insidious and permissive system that enabled and

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

L-R: Acting Head, Health, Safety and Environment (HSE), Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), Mr Akpabio Essien and erstwhile Head of the Division, Mr Bala Wunti, during the handover ceremony in Abuja at the weekend.

BOOSTING HOUSING IN DELTA STATE...

NACOP Seeks Fresh Power Tariff Hike

Despite 230% Surge for Select Customers

Calls on subnational governments to protect power infrastructure

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Despite last year’s increase in electricity tariff for band ‘A’ consumers by as much as 230 per cent, the National Council on Power (NACOP), the highest decisionmaking body in the power sector, has proposed a “cost-reflective” rate for customers nationwide.

In a communiqué issued at the end of the sixth NACOP meeting in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, the body agreed that although there was a need for subsidies for the vulnerable, it must be targeted and well administered.

Themed, “Consolidating Reforms for a Sustainable Energy Future in Nigeria,” the council was presided by Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, while Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Power, Mr. Mahmuda Mamman, chaired the plenary/ technical sessions.

According to the communiqué, 415 delegates/participants drawn from the public and private sectors and civil society organisations were in attendance, while 20 memoranda on power-related issues were received and considered at the plenary/technical sessions.

Besides, council adopted the need

for quality control and assurance in the collaboration between the national and sub-national actors on the enforcement of technical standards and regulations in the sector by the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA).

It stressed that the council adopted that NEMSA should continuously engage with the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to ensure a raise in capital expenditure, and also engage the Minister of Power and NERC to ensure that Distribution Companies (Discos) recapitalised to resolve challenges at the transmission-distribution and distribution-utilisation interfaces in order to enhance grid stability.

The communiqué said, “Council noted the existence of a strategic plan of the federal ministry of power and the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) to seek alternative sources of funding to strengthen the northern corridor through embedded generation and double circuit lines.

“Council adopted that electricity must be paid for at a cost-reflective rate, while subsidies must still exist for the vulnerable, but must be targeted and well administered at a

manageable and sustainable level.

“Council adopted that market liabilities must be apportioned to all parties, which will be subject to thorough engagements to ensure assets and liabilities apply to all parties.”

The communiqué put together by the Planning, Research and Statistics Department of the ministry added that for a bold agenda for market transformation to enhance Nigeria’s

power sector efficiency through strategic market reforms and innovation, Nigeria Bulk Electricity Trading Plc (NBET) should continuously engage stakeholders, especially at the sub-national level, as well as review and represent its submission in line with its upcoming status.

With the recent disruption of power supply to some parts of the north, the council adopted the need to consider constructing

additional double circuit 330/132kV transmission lines to reinforce power supply to the North-east.

On calls to fast-track the Mambilla Hydro Power Project, the body stated that the project was currently under litigation, while calling for sub-nationals to devise multi-agency and multi-stakeholder engagements to provide security to critical power infrastructure.

It adopted the need for the

Federal Ministry of Power to consider the possibility of assisting Borno State Government in the reconstruction of vandalised distribution infrastructure under the distribution expansion programme. The council expressed its appreciation to the government and people of Borno State for hosting the sixth edition and agreed that the seventh council will be held in Cross River State.

Shehu Sani: Northern Leaders Squandered Opportunities to Develop Region

A former senator, who represented Kaduna Central, Senatorial District, Shehu Sani, has criticised past Northern political leaders for failing to leverage their time in power to transform the region.

Speaking at a press briefing at his Kaduna residence, Sani expressed disappointment over the underdevelopment of the North despite having produced two presidents since the return to

Honda Initiative Empowers Women in Agriculture, Offers Hope for Nigeria’s Food Security Crisis

Mary Nnah

Honda Manufacturing (Nigeria)

Limited has launched an initiative to empower women in agriculture in a bid to tackle Nigeria’s food insecurity crisis.

The company’s community development event, held during the weekend in Lagos, themed - “Empowering Women in Agriculture” - targets providing women farmers with equipment and training to boost productivity and income.

The event highlighted the crucial role women play in agriculture and the challenges they face, including lack of access to land, labour, and equipment.

Professor Chinwe Obuaku, Consultant and Technical Team

Lead to the Osun State Government on Climate Change and Renewable Energy, presented a paper titled “Cultivating Prosperity: Entrepreneurial Skills for Women in Agriculture”.

In her presentation, she empha-

sised that empowering women in agriculture can be a game-changer in addressing food insecurity.

Her words: “I realised that food insecurity is a current threat that Nigeria has been experiencing for quite some time. In order to combat that, we need women.

“But if you look around, you will discover that most of these women are farmers. They consider themselves farmers and not as businesswomen or entrepreneurs.”

Professor Obuaku stressed the importance of a growth mindset, peer support, and access to resources for women to succeed in agriculture.

“The first thing is that they have to have a growth mindset. They have to believe in themselves first. It takes a lot for someone to move into agriculture because agriculture is high-risk,” she added.

Honda’s initiative is a significant step towards supporting women farmers.

According to Olabade Badejo, Divisional Manager for Honda, the initiative was inspired by

the company’s desire to be more inclusive.

“We thought our main users, our main customers are men. And we wanted to do something to be more inclusive as a company,” he said.

The initiative has sparked hope that empowering women in agriculture can be a key solution to Nigeria’s food insecurity crisis.

With the right support and investment, women farmers can increase productivity, improve food security, and contribute to the country’s economic development.

Atinuke Lebile, one of the beneficiaries, expressed gratitude for the initiative.

“We are grateful that you are taking women into consideration in what you do... We are going to use this equipment and send pictures to show that it’s really working,” she said.

Honda’s Managing Director, Mr. Hirohide Ichikawa, said the initiative aims to contribute to Nigerian society and support the agricultural sector.

democracy in 1999.

He pointed out that the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and former President Muhammadu Buhari – both from Katsina state – held the presidency for a total of 11 years, yet the region remained underdeveloped.

Sani praised the current administration for its achievements and called on northerners to support the progress made so far, urging them to rally behind Tinubu in the 2027 elections.

Sani said, “For those of us from the North, we must

acknowledge the gains made by this administration. Those who had the opportunity to do better but failed should apologise to the people of the region instead of inciting discontent.”

He warned against tribal or regional sentiments being used to discredit the current administration.

According to him, some political actors from the North, who failed to deliver during their time in power, were now attempting to sow division purely out of personal interest.

“Northerners must not allow

themselves to be manipulated against a government that, in many respects, has outperformed the one that originated from their own“Letregion. us remember that the Southwest stood solidly behind the North during Buhari’s tenure and never posed any significant opposition to his rule,” Sani said. He argued that, in the spirit of equity and fairness, the South—particularly the Southwest—should be allowed to complete their eight-year presidential tenure, whether under the ruling party or the opposition.

Ijaw Community Urges NDDC to Revisit 11-year Old Abandoned Road Project in Edo

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

The Ijaw community of Gelegele in Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State, has called on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to revisit the Udo-Ufunoma-Enikura-Gwilebu road project abandoned over 11 years ago.

The people said no fewer than 100 communities have been cutoff over non-completion of the road, wondering why the NDDC, an intervention agency, should leave out oil producing communities, particularly Gelegele, from it several intervention projects.

Chairman of Gelegele Executive Council, Mr. Omaghomi Olu-Derimon, made the appeal in a statement in Benin City, made available to journalists on Monday.

Olu-Derimon who noted it is most regrettable the communities that lay the “golden egg” were being neglected in favour of those without crude oil,

stressed this act is almost destroying the reason for the creation of NDDC as an intervention agency.

He said: “Udo-Ufunoma-EnikuraGwilebu road has been abandoned since 2014 by the NDDC.

“That road is a gateway to the Riverine communities from Ovia North East to Ovia South West, and over 100 communities have been impacted negatively because of its non-completion.

“The people of these communities go through harrowing experience during raining season and we appeal to the NDDC and the state government to see to its completion.”

Olu-Derimon however, commended the present board of the NDDC for taking the right step to correct some of these anomalies.

“I think over time, before the NDDC, you know, we have the OMPADEC.

We’ve been having some form of intervention agencies who are meant

to probably give the government some kind of support, to help develop the oil communities and oil producing states.

“I think the NDDC has not actually met its major target, its major aim of developing, or in the overall development of the Niger Delta or the South-South states.

“Because if you compare the amount of money that have come into this region via NDDC, I think the gap is just too wide.

“But from what I see, the current administration of the NDDC, there is a kind of difference. I think, we can see a kind of step up from what we’ve seen before.

“We can see a focus in the NDDC. But the area where I really want to focus my mind on the present NDDC is for them to bring development down to the oil producing communities, not just the states, the communities, not just the local government, but the oil-bearing communities.

John Shiklam in Kaduna

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State (middle); His deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme (fourth right): the Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN, (third left); and others, yesterday, during the inauguration of eight units of four-bedroom duplexes built by the state government in Asaba

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Withdrawals Alter Chelle’s Eagles to Face Russia on Friday

Duro Ikhazuagbe

Samuel Chukwueze, Wilfred Ndidi, Kelechi Iheanacho and Sadiq Umar are amongst top players that are unavailable to be selected in the Super Eagles to play in Friday’s international friendly match in Moscow.

After Eagles won the Unity Cup in London last weekend, some key players suffered injuries while a few others excused themselves from the trip to Russia to attend to pressing family matters.

A number of withdrawals and injuries to some players have therefore combined to alter Head Coach, Eric Sekou Chelle’s squad, from the original list drawn up.

According to Media Officer of the team, Promise Efoghe, the goalkeeping sector is unaffected as first choice Stanley Nwabali was not listed for the trip in the first place, as a result of the upcoming burial rites for his late parents. Italy-based Maduka Okoye and Tanzania-based Amas Obasogie will still fight for the goal-tender’s starting shirt.

In the rearguard, captain William Ekong is in Moscow alongside Bright Osayi-Samuel, joining the Unity Cup trio of Bruno Onyemaechi, Semi Ajayi and Igoh Ogbu.

However, Nottingham Forest’s Ola Aina excused himself from the friendly, and Coach Chelle has had to draft in the Unity Cup duo of Sodiq Ismaila and Benjamin Fredericks. Former junior international Fredericks impressed on his debut against Jamaica on Saturday.

In the midfield, injury to Wilfred Ndidi has handed Enugu Rangers’ ace Saviour Isaac the opportunity to shine. Isaac is a key member of the Eagles B, which will participate in the African Nations Championship finals in August.

He will join Frank Onyeka, Raphael Onyedika, Fisayo DeleBashiru, Christantus Uche and Papa Daniel Mustapha to fight for shirts in the middle of the pack.

At the fore, Unity Cup ace Samuel Chukwueze, and Kelechi Iheanacho, have excused themselves to attend to family matters, while Spain-based Sadiq Umar has suffered an injury. Nathan Tella’s United Kingdom passport

is undergoing

FC.

The team, which arrived in Moscow on Monday, will begin training sessions on Tuesday.

French Open: Djokovic Ends Norrie’s Run to Advance in Paris

Novak Djokovic ended Cameron Norrie’s encouraging French Open run with a straight-set victory over the Briton to reach the quarter-finals.

Djokovic, bidding for a standalone record 25th Grand Slam singles title, beat Norrie 6-2 6-3 6-2.

Norrie, playing in the last 16 at Roland Garros for the first time, was looking for another scalp in Paris after stunning 11th seed Daniil Medvedev in the first round.

However, the world number 81 never seriously looked like causing an upset against the 38-year-old great.

If Norrie had taken his chances - particularly in a second set where he led by a break - it would have applied more pressure on the Serb.

“I was a little bit flat in some moments and I think that was the difference,” said Norrie.

“I don’t see too much evolution with Novak - he’s still not missing tennis balls.”

Sixth seed Djokovic will face

The match will take place at the 78,000-capacity Luzhniki Stadium, which is the largest football stadium in Russia and the ninth-largest in the whole of Europe.

SUPER EAGLES FOR RUSSIA FRIENDLY:

Goalkeepers: Maduka Okoye (Udinese FC, Italy); Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars, Tanzania)

Defenders: William Ekong (AlKholood FC, Saudi Arabia); Bright Osayi-Samuel (Fenerbahce SK, Turkey); Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiacos FC, Greece); Oluwasemilogo Ajayi (West Bromwich Albion, England); Igoh Ogbu (SK Slavia

Prague, Czech Republic); Sodiq Ismaila

Benjamin Fredericks

Midfielders: Frank

(Augsburg

Raphael Onyedika

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Lazio FC, Italy); Chrisantus Uche (Getafe CF, Spain); Papa Daniel Mustapha (Niger Tornadoes); Saviour Isaac (Enugu Rangers)

Forwards: Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany); Simon Moses (FC Nantes, France); Tolu Arokodare (KRC Genk, Belgium); Olakunle Olusegun (Krasnodar FC, Russia)

Nigeria Clinches Bronze Medal at 19th African Sambo Championship

Nigeria proudly secured a podium finish at the 19th African Sambo Championships held in Conakry, Guinea, thanks to the impressive performance of its sole representative, Ramon Kayode.

The three-day tournament, which ran from May 24 to 26 at the Sports Palace 28 September Stadium, featured athletes from 19 countries, including Algeria, Morocco, Burkina Faso, Benin Republic, Togo, Ghana, Egypt, Cameroon, Djibouti, South Africa, Mali, Niger Republic, DR Congo, Central African Republic, Angola, and host nation Guinea.

Competitions were held across three categories: Sport SAMBO, Combat SAMBO, and Beach SAMBO. Representing Nigeria in the men’s 64kg Sport SAMBO event, Kayode delivered a commendable performance, earning a bronze medal. The gold medal went to Morocco’s Ferhane Rabii, while Algeria’s Abderraouf Guerbaa claimed silver. Kayode shared the bronze podium with Cameroon’s Meyong Ondoa Franck.

An elated Kayode described the experience as transformative, marking his debut on the international stage.

“I cannot hide my excitement. Competing in this tournament has been an eye-opener—it broadened my understanding of Sambo and allowed me to connect with athletes from across the continent. Winning a medal in my first international outing is something I’m truly grateful for. I appreciate the Nigeria Sambo Association for this rare opportunity and hope for more tournaments like this to help us grow,” he said.

Sheriff Hammed, Vice President of the Nigerian Sambo Association, expressed pride in the achievement.

“We’re thrilled to have participated and even more so to have won a medal. This marks our second appearance at the continental level, and it’s encouraging to see our impact growing. We hope to see more Nigerian athletes rise to the top in Africa and eventually compete on the global stage,” he concluded.

GTI, Youth Group Commiserate with Kano Over Loss of Athletes, Officials

the singles in Paris.

GTI Asset Management and Trust Limited, strategic partners to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), has extended its heartfelt condolences to the Kano State Government and the Kano State Sports Commission following the tragic loss of more than twenty athletes and officials who were returning from the recently concluded National Sports Festival, Gateway Games 2024.

In a press statement issued on Monday in Lagos, GTI’s Head of Media and Publicity, Andrew Ekejiuba, expressed deep sorrow over the devastating incident.

“We received with great shock and disbelief the news of the tragic motor accident that claimed the lives of more than twenty athletes and officials who had actively participated in the just-concluded National Sports Festival in Abeokuta,” Ekejiuba said.

“This is a monumental loss—not only to the people of Kano State but to the entire nation. A promising generation of athletes has been lost in such a heartbreaking manner, leaving their families and communities in profound grief.

“This tragedy comes at a time when GTI is fully committed to repositioning and restructuring Nigeria’s sports ecosystem. We extend our deepest sympathies to

the bereaved families. We pray for the eternal rest of the departed souls and a swift recovery for those injured and currently receiving treatment,” he added.

GTI also used the opportunity to urge sports administrators across the country to prioritize the safety and welfare of athletes and officials, particularly during travel to and from competitions. The incident serves as a solemn reminder of the need for stringent safety measures and risk mitigation strategies in Nigerian sports. Similarly, the Nigeria Youths Awareness Group Makinde 2027 (NYAG) has sympathised with the Kano State Government over the loss of athletes and officials at the weekend.

The National Secretary of the group, Alhaji Lawal Abdullahi, in a statement said, “We sympathize with the Kano State Government and the people of the state over the fatal accident that claimed 21 lives of Kano contingents who were returning from the just-concluded National Sports Festival (NSF) in Ogun State.”

The youth group also extended its sympathy to the Niger State Government and the people of Mokwa Local Government Area over the devastating flood incident that claimed over 150 lives.

(Remo Stars);

(Brentford FC, England)

Onyeka

FC, Germany);

(Club Brugge, Belgium);

Samuel Chukwueze...one of the top players to miss the friendly with Russia

Novak Djokovic...cruised into the next round of the French Open

third seed Alexander Zverev next - having lost to the German in January’s Australian Open semi-

finals after suffering a hamstring injury. Jack Draper’s loss in four sets to

Kazakhstan’s Alexander Bubliklater on Monday ended British interest in

Mid-term, Coastal Road And Other Stories

“Omo, how you dey?”

“I dey my dey oh. What’s up?”

“How you take see this Baba Tinubu’s mid-term score card”?

“My problem is that President Tinubu is in Lagos and we suffered for about two days. Traffic hold-up. I spent three hours in the traffic for about two days, back-to-back within the island axis. I did not like that.”

“But they have since corrected that. It is not President Tinubu’s fault. Blame the over-enthusiastic security personnel who should be cautioned.”

“Do you know that the President was scheduled to come to Lagos on Tuesday last week. By Monday evening, they had locked up the road to Bourdillon and Oyinkan Abayomi. The following morning, nobody could even move. And when the President was going to the Nigerian l Institute for International Affairs (NIIA) for ECOWAS at 50, they had locked up the roads even when the President was still in bed. Completely inconsiderate protocol people. Sycophancy is the main problem in this country. Whoever was in charge of Presidential movement during that moment must be queried.”

“Easy. Take it easy. After all the complaints, have they not amended things? They have. You can’t blame the President for what officials do. Leadership in itself is a learning process.”

“Ileya, Eid el Kabir festival is a few days from now. I don’t want to hear that the President is going to the mosque and other people are stopped from exercising their own rights. After all, this is Lagos. President Tinubu is the father of Lagos politics in modern, contemporary times. If he must feel free anywhere, it must be in Lagos. His own land and territory. What is the security level alert? Why would he come into Lagos and his personal security would become such a big issue? He should be at home in his own state and space?”

“In politics, you do not take anything for granted. Politics is like Boys Scouts. You must always be prepared. In security matters, you do not leave anything to chance. Is it not in this same Lagos that the Obidients took over in the last general elections and Peter Obi of the Labour Party got a better percentage over and above Tinubu? From that moment in 2023, President Tinubu has had to watch over his shoulders whenever he is in Lagos. The best thing for a politician is to be in control of his own home base.”

“That was 2023. We are in 2025. He was a candidate then. He is now President. Level don change.”.

“The Obidients have not kept quiet. They still behave as if they own Lagos.”

“They don’t own Lagos. Oh, wait a moment. So, is that why President Tinubu lost Lagos during the Presidential election in 2023? I see. Every political leader must have his home base under his control. You can’t be President of Nigeria and you can’t even win in your own backyard? It happened to President Olusegun Obasanjo in 1999. It also happened to President Tinubu in 2023. Every Nigerian President must start charity from his own base, otherwise that is a bad comment on his politics.”

“The sad story is that Lagos has an APC Governor in the person of Governor Babajide Sanwoolu. Lagos is an APC state.”

“Yes. Yes. But in 2023 in Lagos State, Sanwoolu won. Tinubu lost during the Presidential election. By what alchemy did the godson win, and the godfather lost? Think about it. It is an unforgettable offence in Nigerian politics. The Godfather must always look good. He cannot be allowed to look bad under your watch! Simple political logic. Not even US President Donald Trump would tolerate that.”

“So, is that why President Tinubu refused to shake Governor Sanwoolu’s hands at the commissioning of the phase one, 30

kilometres stretch of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway?

The Lagos state Governor was openly humiliated. I even heard that when it came to the time for one of the Governors to make a speech, the President called on Governor Dapo Abiodun to speak. Ogun State Governor oh? To speak on a project in Lagos state, even when the Lagos State Governor was physically present. That was the height of snobbery.”

“Governor Dapo Abiodun could have refused. He could have asked the President to call on the Governor of Lagos to speak.”

“I don’t know for you. You want Ogun Governor to overrule the President of Nigeria at a public event? Hello oh. Where are you from?”

“Are we under a garrison command? If I was the one in that position, I would have said sir, I think the function belongs to the Lagos State Governor, afterall, the project is in Lagos state, not Ogun. and more specifically, Sanwoolu is the host-Governor.”

“Wow. What a clever man! You are an intelligent man but you are not wise. My conclusion is that Governor Dapo Abiodun is wise and intelligent and you are a dumb person. The Governor of Ogun State has just turned 65 years old. He is obviously a much wiser person than your type. As for Baba Tinubu and his son, Sanwoolu, leave them alone. They will resolve their family matter at the right time.”

“I don’t even know what they are commissioning. Thirty kilometres out of 750 kilometres?

“I actually read a story in ThisDay newspaper which quotes one NGO, NEFGAD I think, saying that the commissioning is misleading and premature, and that presenting a fraction of the whole misrepresents the scope of the work, and undermines the public.”

“NGO? I beg. Leave these NGOs out of it. Who be NEFGAD? Who dey there? What do they know?”

“But look at their logic”

“Which logic? Dem dey craze”

“They have the right to talk. I hear that the 30 km is not even ready. The question to ask is: why the rush? It is not right to commission an uncompleted project. 30 kilometres out of 750 kilometres is just about 4% or less. Do your calculations.”

“Leave matter. Baba don commission. He don commission be dat. Are you saying you are wiser or by any stretch smarter than the Jagaban himself?”

“I am not saying anything. I am just raising simple questions”

“Keep your questions to yourself. Baba knows what he is doing. The Jagaban! Asiwaju himself. Owner of the game.”

“This is precisely what we are talking about. You people are so sycophantic, nobody is allowed to ask the President any questions. This is Nigeria, not Gaddafi’s Libya. We, the people, must be allowed to talk.”

“Who is gagging you? But talk sense, and don’t ask stupid questions?”

“I want to know for example, why was the Lagos-Calabar Coastal highway awarded to the Chagourys, Lebanese people coming to Nigeria to build a conglomerate. Why not a Nigerian company?”

“You see? The Chagourys for your information are actually Nigerians. They are older than you in this country. They were born and bred here, and they have as much right as you do. Any other thing?”

“Is Tinubu part of the Chagoury group? Is he part of the people constructing the road? Is this a case of conflict of interest?”

“Go and ask him”

“Let his advisers organize a media chat and invite me. I will ask him”

“Which media chat?”

“The President owes us explanations on every subject. It is our money.”

“Which money? Do you even pay tax? Your money. Your money. Is it your money that the Nigerian government is spending?”

“Yes. It is our money.”

“My friend, go and sit down. You don’t need Tinubu, the President of the Federal Republic to come and be explaining this and that to you. He has Ministers who are doing the job. And they have been busy giving account, especially on this occasion of the President’s mid-term in office.”

“I voted for Tinubu, not the Ministers. I do not know them.”

“That is a pity. It means you are not a good citizen. You are supposed to know the people who govern Nigeria. The Constitution allows the President to delegate his authority. He alone cannot run Nigeria. Only yesterday, Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory granted a two-hour interview. Did you see that? Did you listen?”

“No. I did not. I switched off.”

“Then you and people like you are the problem. You want accountability, but you don’t even have enough discipline to listen”

“I don’t want to listen to Wike. He spews a lot of bunkum.”

“Excuse me?”

“You heard what I said. Why should I listen to him?”

“He is a servant of the Nigerian people, and his job is to report to us.”

“He likes to sound as if he is the alternate President of Nigeria. I have no patience for that.”

“And so? He is useful to the man that appointed him. He is helping Tinubu to fight people in the People’s Democratic Party. Every President needs at least one attack dog. Yesterday, Wike said for example that former Minster, former Governor Rotimi Amaechi is a hungry, and pompous liar, for attacking the President. He gave him such a beautiful 60thbirthday package! Then he added that he, Wike will lead President Tinubu’s campaign in 2027.”

“Oh God. Oh God. You are just an impossible fellow. You don’t know Nigeria. You have no idea what politics is all about. Can we talk about something else, p-le-a-se? Look at the 22 athletes who died on their way back from Ogun State after the 22nd National Sports Festival. They went to represent their state. They died in a road accident when they got back home. It is sad. It is unfortunate. It hurts. Nigeria

happened to them.”

“It is not Nigeria. The Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) has concluded that this was a case of over-speeding. The relevant authorities behind the vehicles on our roads must insist on safe driving.”

“The roads are bad”

“Yes. But the FRSC in this case is talking about over-speeding, and the need for discipline.”

“Twenty-two lives lost and the government is offering one million naira each to the affected families. They could have spent less than that amount to buy flight tickets for the Kano State contingent and get them back to Kano in less than three hours. But the poor souls had to travel from Ogun State to Kano by road. And now they offer the families of the deceased N1 million”

“The Kano State Government paid the hospital bills. They have also offered to employ a member of every affected family.”

“Stop defending nonsense. Those persons could have been alive if Nigeria did not happen to them. And where is the Governor?”

“Nigeria happens to all of us. The Governor is in Saudi Arabia on hajj”

“Hajj. Hajj. Governor away on hajj. And he is still there. And you are still alive to defend every possible misconduct”

“I only try to be fair and balanced.”

“Mr. Balanciaga, well done. You hear me? I say una do well. One of these days, I won’t be surprised if they give you a job to come and help with your balancing work. I know you people. Do you want me to name staunch critics of President Tinubu who are now eating from his palms, and they will say anything to explain that they have finally seen the light and they were blind before now? The crisis that hunger has caused in this country has no measure. Ebi n pa wa is the right metaphor for the collapse of dignity, pride, values and the entire middle class.”

“Man must eat.”

“Man must eat with sense. Too many persons in this country eat without sense. They don’t believe in anything. Sorry I correct that. They worship only the sovereignty of their stomach.”

“Still I do not see anything wrong in that. Most people are not footballers who have to run up and down to eat, and struggle for the ball. We are not all made the same way. Some people eat by running helter-skelter, some are leeches, some by talking, some people get their daily bread by lying and stealing. And yet we are all God’s children.”

“Footballers! Those ones work hard. PSG just won the UEFA Champions League. What a complete team! What a marvelous team of young talents that Luis Enrique has put together. I say: Congratulations.”

“This has serious implications.”

“The only clear implication I see is that a PSG player will win the Ballon D’or on October 27. Ousmane Dembele.”

“You never know. There are other contenders. Barcelona’s duo of Lamine Yamal and Raphinha. PSG’s Desire Doue, Desired. Gifted. And Donnarumma.”

“Ousmane Dembele. My pick”.

“Okay. Okay. But let’s celebrate our own people too. Ademola Lookman who came home to present his CAF Footballer of the Year 2024 award to the President. We are proud of him. He is a worthy ambassador. God bless him.”

“Eric Chelle too, our Franco Malian coach. He won his first trophy as a coach, the Unity Cup, as a coach of the Super Eagles.”

“Good, Good. But I will join you to celebrate him only when he takes the Super Eagles to the 2026 World Cup. I reserve my praise.”

“Well. Ok. Well.”

President Bola Tinubu

L-R: Director, Search and Rescue, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Air Commodore Kenneth Oyong; Deputy Governor of Niger State, Comrade Yakubu Garba; and Director General, NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, during the assessment visit of the Director General of NEMA to Mokwa, Niger State, and presentation of list of relief items delivered by NEMA to the deputy governor for distribution to persons impacted by the flood disaster that devastated the Kpege area of the town, last Friday