TUESDAY 5TH AUGUST 2025

With over 1.8m Bpd Peak Oil Output in July, Nigeria Inches Towards Meeting 2025 Budget Benchmark NUPRC deploys framework to ensure minimal production disruptions Says presidential mandate on oil production increase within reach

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Nigeria’s hope of meeting its 2.06

million barrels per day crude oil production benchmark in the 2025 budget received a boost in July, with

the country exceeding 1.8 million bpd peak output for the first time this year, the Nigerian Upstream

Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) said yesterday.

The 2025 national budget, pegged

at about N55 trillion, was built on an assumed oil production of about 2.06 million bpd (including condensate)

and a benchmark crude price of Continued on page 9

Dangote Cement’s New Ivory Coast Plant to Produce 3m Tons Per Year... Page 28 Tuesday 5 August, 2025 Vol 30. No 11076. Price: N400

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Tinubu Rewards Each D’Tigress Player $100,000, Flat, and OON National Honour... Page 5

Wike Gives Fresh Conditions for PDP Convention Chuks Okocha and Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has handed new conditions for the proposed national convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and ultimately for the overall peace of the party.

Speaking during a media chat, Wike who insisted that he had not left the PDP, said for the crises tearing the party into shreds to end, the resolutions at the south-south zonal congress that was held in Calabar must be upheld before the PDP convention scheduled for November.

“If they want another round of crisis, so be it. That congress moved

that Chief Dan Orbih emerged as the National Vice Chairman South-south of the party. The court allowed it for then congress to hold and the congress was held. The so called acting National Chairman of the Party went and wrote a letter to INEC. “The congress was held on Saturday on the 15th and he went and wrote a letter on the 8th, for

example, that the Congress had been postponed. Chief Dan Orbih is the National Vice Chairman of PDP, South-south. If they don’t agree, that is another round of crisis.

“Two, the south-east congress which produced Chief Ali Odefa as the National Vice Chairman cannot stand because the court had affirmed that Odefa is no longer a member

of the party.

“That is what I told the people that I cannot allow impunity and will fight it until they correct it. There is time for them to resolve before we talk of convention. If it is not resolved that is invitation to crisis,” Wike warned.

Also, yesterday, Wike disclosed that the subsisting emergency rule

in Rivers State would be over soon, adding that President Bola Tinubu was not bent on extending the emergency proclamation.

Wike, who stated that his optimism was informed by the presidential directive for council elections to hold within 30 days Continued on page 9

APC: ADC, El-Rufai Confused and Clueless Abdulahi: Ruling Party Weaponising Personal Attacks Ruling party spokesman insists ex-gov, Atiku on a mission to upend presidential rotational principle designed to promote national unity APC must answer to Nigerians, ADC warns

Story on page 9

PRESIDENTIAL RECEPTION FOR NIGERIA D’TIGRESS...

L-R: Chairman, National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko; Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu; D’Tigress Captain, Amy Okonkwo; Vice President Kashim Shettima; D’Tigress Coach, Rena Wakama; Wife of the Vice President, Nana Shettima; Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim; and team members of D’Tigress during their reception as PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI winners of the 2025 FIBA Women’s Afrobasket Championship at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday

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THISDAY • TUESDAY, AUGUST 5, 2025

Group News Editor: Goddy Egene Email: Goddy.egene@thisdaylive.com, 0803 350 6821, 0807 401 0580

NEWS

PROJECT INSPECTION...

L-R: Project Manager, Thamos Haut Haug; Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon; Delta State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori and, Chairman, Uvwie Local Government Area, Hon Anthony Ofoni, during the governor’s inspection of the flyover at Enerhen Junction, Effurun…recently

Tinubu Rewards Each D’Tigress Player $100,000, Flat, and OON National Honour Technical crew members also get $50,000 each plus house and OON national honour Describes team’s victory as a powerful statement of Nigeria’s resilience, tactical excellence, national pride Sanwo-Olu, Musawa, Onyejeocha celebrate team for historic Afrobasket victory

Deji Elumoye, Olawale Ajimotokan and Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, conferred national honours on all players and the technical team of Nigeria’s women’s national basketball team, D’Tigress, following their historic fifth consecutive victory at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket Championship in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

He also directed the allocation of one flat to each player, coach and technical crew member.

The president further approved a cash award of the naira equivalent of $100,000 to each player, and $50,000 for the coach and each technical team member.

Speaking during the presidential reception held at the new Banquet Hall of the State House, Abuja in their honour, Tinubu, who was represented

by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, awarded each player and technical crew member the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).

He praised the team for becoming the first African team to qualify for the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Pre-Qualifying Tournament.

“It is my profound honour and

pleasure to welcome to the State House our remarkable Women’s National Basketball Team, D’Tigress - continental champions once more, and now the first African team to qualify for the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Pre-Qualifying Tournament. You have conquered Africa and opened the door to global greatness,” he said.

The president described the team’s emphatic 78-64 victory over Mali as more than just a game, calling it “a powerful statement of Nigerian resilience, tactical excellence, and national pride.

“You fought back from behind in the first quarter, not with panic but poise. You wore the green and white not just as colours, but as a symbol of conviction and hope.

And now, you wear the crown as queens of African basketball for the fifth consecutive time,” he stated.

The president particularly commended Coach Rena Wakama, saying, “To Coach Rena Wakama, you represent the evolution of leadership in Nigerian sports.

“Your quiet strength and historic achievements have shattered ceilings and inspired countless young girls nationwide, who now know that no dream is too bold for a Nigerian

woman. Indeed, you deserved your award as the best coach in Africa and the world,” he stated.

Tinubu also recognised the tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP), Amy Okonkwo, and top scorer in the final, Ezinne Kalu, saying, “To Amy Okonkwo, the tournament MVP, and Ezinne Kalu, top scorer in the final, your brilliance elevated the entire team.

But most importantly, you did not play for yourselves. You played for and won with Nigeria.

“Let me take a moment to reflect on a greater truth. Nigerian women have never failed this nation in

Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Femi Falana, has criticised the federal government’s economic reforms under President Bola Tinubu, describing them as “harsh neo-liberal policies” that have worsened living conditions and wiped out Nigeria’s middle class.

Speaking on Channels Television’s ‘Politics Today’ yesterday, Falana said that despite Tinubu’s recent admission of economic hardship, the administration’s policies have further deepened poverty and inequality.

who also served as chairman of the NNPC Limited, “for its consistency in team development, strategic planning, and sacrifices for Nigeria’s Glory.

“To all our young people watching today, let the story of D’Tigress remind you that greatness is a product of hard work, discipline, and belief.

Nigeria belongs to those who dare to dream and are willing to give their best to make those dreams a reality.

“To D’Tigress, you are not just champions. You are role models, pathfinders, and true daughters of the land,” the President stressed, assuring them of continued support as they prepare for the global stage.

Says several multi-billion road projects ongoing in Igbo land

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Chyddy Aleke in Awka The Minister of Works, David Umahi, yesterday contended that contrary

Condemns shutdown of Niger State radio station Says governors/president lack power to close media outlets “I have seen the President ask APC governors to ‘wet the ground’ more, but as far as the masses are concerned, things are getting tougher by the day because of the harsh economic crisis in the country,” Falana said.

“Because of the rigid implementation of neo-liberal policies by the government, poverty is on the rise.

That will require a review of these policies,” he added.

Falana faulted the government’s privatisation drive, arguing that it undermines efforts to address income inequality.

“You cannot be addressing income

“Sport is not merely entertainment. It is infrastructure, education, diplomacy, and a powerful tool for youth employment, economic transformation, and global engagement.”

He extended appreciation to the National Sports Commission under the leadership of Malam Shehu Dikko, noting that, “The Commission’s renewed focus on athlete welfare, institutional reform, grassroots sports and performance-based development is already yielding results.”

The president also commended the Nigeria Basketball Federation, led by Malam Amadu Muda Kida,

Umahi: Tinubu Not Short-changing South-east, Urges Region to Forget 2027

Falana Slams Tinubu’s Economic Policies, Warns of Rising Poverty, Middle Class Collapse Wale Igbintade

sports. From the Super Falcons standing tall on the world stage, to our athletes breaking records on the track, and D’Tigress building a basketball dynasty, our women have consistently made us proud.

They have shown the world that when opportunity meets preparation, Nigerian excellence is inevitable.”

He emphasised his administration’s commitment to sports development, stating, “We owe you not just applause but decisive action. That is why, under this administration, we are repositioning sports as a key pillar of our national development strategy and economic drive.

inequality in a country while handing over the nation’s resources to a few people in the name of privatisation,” he said.

He noted that most Nigerians can no longer afford three meals a day and that government policies have “wiped out” the middle class.

Since assuming office in May 2023, Tinubu has introduced sweeping economic reforms, including currency liberalisation and the removal of fuel subsidies. While intended to stabilise the economy, Falana argued that these measures have triggered inflation, skyrocketing food prices, and rising transport costs.

to the perception in certain quarters, President Bola Tinubu has been fair to the South-east, especially in the rehabilitation of Nigeria’s road network in the region.

Specifically, Umahi pointed to an article published by one Linus Anagboso, insisting that the insinuation that the President was treating the region unfairly was baseless.

The minister, in a statement in Abuja he personally signed, said he has directed all the regional directors of the Federal Ministry of Works back to sites in all the regions across the country to compile all inherited but ongoing projects and all new projects in all the regions.

According to him, this is so that Nigerians will appreciate the ‘huge’ work that the President is doing in all the regions, irrespective of those who voted for him and those who did not.

“Mr. President is using a fair distribution of infrastructure to reunite Nigerians and renew their hope, and only those who open their eyes will see the light of change in Nigeria. In addressing specifically this misleading information and for the records, Mr. President has four legacy projects.

“These cover the six geo-political zones with the South-east region well captured within the third legacy project

of Cross River-Ebonyi-Benue-KogiNasarawa-Abuja, totaling 465km x 2 with South-east covering 231.64km x 2 and 231.64km x 1 for N445.8 billion already awarded and work is going on. Mr. President has already paid N108 billion.

“What happened in the Federal Executive Council (FEC) of 31/7/2025 was a review of that corridor from 118kmx 1 to 231.64km x1 for N445.8 billion. This misleading writer chose to change the narrative of my press briefing after the FEC of Tran Sahara Section 1 (Ebonyi state to Benue border – 123.64km at N445.8 billion but deliberately chose to call it Oyo-Benue Border road to deceive and incite unsuspecting members of the public,” Umahi stated.

Under Tinubu’s administration, Umahi argued that 90 per cent of abandoned projects, some awarded as far back as 2013, were all revived, and all are now ongoing.

“It is noteworthy to mention that there is huge ongoing works on the 2nd Niger Bridge access road 2A in Delta State which is valued at N146 billion and 2B in Anambra State which is valued at N176 billion, the Enugu-Onitsha road -208km ( MTN Tax Credit which is valued at N202 billion and CBC completing the remaining section at N150 billion

of which N45 billion was released last week.

Besides, he listed the Enugu–Port Harcourt road in four sections, the Enugu-Abakaliki, the Afikpo(Ebonyi) -Abia-Imo road, the Onitsha-OwerriAba road, the Aba-Ikot Ekpene road and the Umuahia-Ikot Ekpene road, among others.

“I request the South-east people to rise in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu because he has demonstrated unwavering love and fairness to the people of the South-east.

We must not be deceived again. Mr. President must have the votes of the South-east up to 90 per cent to cement this relationship.

“Enough of darkening counsel without knowledge in the Southeast. We must rise to educate our people. If we want to be president, we must avoid the politics of hate, misinformation, and sentiments.

“We must support other regions, and with God, one day, other regions will support us. Mr. President must be supported to complete his tenure of eight years, which all regions are benefitting from. One day, we will be number one, but not in 2027. I will vocally continue to stand against any mischief to deceive our people.

We are known for hard work and love and not hate,” the minister said.

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NEWS

EVENT FOR CELEBRATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR WOMEN OF AFRICAN DESCENT...

L-R: Director General, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mrs. Zubaida Umar; and the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Finance, Mrs. Lydia Shehu Jafiya, at an event for celebration of the International Day for Women of African Descent in Abuja, last Thursday

Retired Soldiers Barricade Finance Ministry Over Non-Payment of Entitlements Linus Aleke in Abuja A crowd of retired military pensioners barricaded the main entrance to the Federal Ministry of Finance in Abuja yesterday to protest the non-payment of their statutory entitlements.

The angry-looking military retirees erected canopies at the main entrance to the ministry to express their anger against the federal government and pressed home their demand for immediate payment of outstanding shortfalls in their gratuity, Security

Debarment Allowance (SDA), and Parking Allowance.

The visibly hungry, tired, yet fierce-looking, the retirees rebuffed a spirited effort by a senior military officer to try to pacify them. They insisted that their demands must be met before any dialogue could commence.

One of the leaders of the protest, Corporal Umar Faruq (rtd), expressed regrets over alleged Pension Board’s deliberate neglect of the retirees who had given all their youthful energies

to the service of the nation.

Faruq stated that the Military Pensions Board had informed them that they were not entitled to the new national minimum wage adjustments, citing their disengagement date of July 1, 2024 as the basis.

He explained, “This is unacceptable. We gave our best years to the nation. Many of us are suffering while the system continues to deny us what is rightfully ours.”

A protester who identified himself as Mohamed Kabiru, a retired

Sergeant, narrated the sordid state of many ex-soldiers after years of loyal service.

Kabiru said, “They didn’t pay us our full money. They promised us a parking allowance; they didn’t pay it. We gave our lives for this country, yet we are treated as if we don’t matter.”

Questioning the value the federal government attached to the sacrifices of serving and retired personnel, Kabiru stated that the mouth-watering rewards

Malnutrition/Infant Mortality: UNICEF Renews Call for Exclusive Breastfeeding During First 6 Months of a Child’s Life Also advocates 6 months maternity leave for nursing working mothers

Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi Apparently disturbed by the high number of malnourished children in Bauchi State, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Bauchi Field Office has re-emphasised the need for parents in the state to embrace exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of a child’s life.

Similarly, the organisation urged the state government to initiate a policy that will grant six months maternity leave for nursing working mothers, which according to it will ensure exclusive breastfeeding for their babies without distractions.

The UNICEF Chief of Field Office, Dr. Nuzhat Rafique who was addressing journalists in her office on Monday as part of activities to commemorate the 2025 World Breastfeeding Week, expressed

concern over the high number of malnourished children in the state, stressing that fighting malnutrition starts with ensuring the child is exclusively breastfed for six months.

She maintained that sustaining efforts to promote exclusive breastfeeding practices remains the most effective method to combat malnutrition in children, especially in the early stages of life.

Nuzhat Rafique said that for a child not to be malnourished, the mother must Initiate breastfeeding on time, continuing breastfeeding till 24 months along with complementary feeding, adding that there is the need for family support, community support to ensure that the mother gets all the facilities to optimally breastfeed the child.

According to her, “I think, I would like to start from the status of nutrition of the children in Bauchi, where we

find a very grave situation. Half of the children, they are malnourished, and even more have been malnourished in the past, leading to chronic malnutrition and stunting.

“There are a lot of children in Bauchi as a state, and the nutrition situation is very poor. And, you know, breastfeeding is one of the first promises towards good nutrition and survival of the child.”

“Starting with, remember the formula that we need to promote.

1, 6, 24. One hour, the first hour of the baby, we need to initiate breastfeeding.

“For all the benefits of antibodies, very good food for the child. The first food for the baby which can really help him developing the resistance against diseases and to building the nutrition level.

“Then, exclusive breastfeeding till 6 months. 1, 6, 24. Exclusive

UN to Close 150 Clinics in Nigeria as Aid Cuts Hit Food Relief Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The United Nations’ food agency will shut half of its clinics in Nigeria’s conflict-ravaged northeast region this month, as it begins winding down humanitarian support due to aid cuts, Bloomberg news reported yesterday.

The World Food Programme (WFP) said it received no funding to continue food and nutrition support for 1.3 million people, despite an urgent appeal for $130 million to sustain operations through 2025.

Those Programmes will now end in August, and “the immediate and most

brutal effect will be on child nutrition,” Chi Lael, head of communications at the WFP, said on Monday. Half of the 300 clinics “we run will be closed this month, cutting off lifesaving treatment for 300,000 children,” she added.

A record 31 million Nigerians are facing food insecurity, according to the UN, with nearly one-fifth in the insurgency-plagued northeast suffering from acute hunger.

Nigeria’s ministry of health didn’t immediately respond to questions about how it plans to fill the gap.

This year, the federal government allocated just $326,000 for managing

malnutrition and stunting in highburden states.

The UN and other humanitarian agencies in Africa have seen a massive drop in donor funds, after US President Donald Trump slashed foreign aid. European countries are also diverting resources away from overseas assistance to support domestic priorities, the Bloomberg report stressed.

In July, Geneva-based Doctors Without Borders said that deadly child malnutrition was soaring in northern Nigeria due to a sharp drop in foreign aid.

breastfeeding till 6 months, and then initiation of complementary feeding, optimum complementary feeding, along with continuation of breastfeeding till 24 months. So this is the formula every mother should know. Every grandmother should know. Whole community should know.

“And now, I will talk about the theme of this year for the World Breastfeeding Week. “System support for the Woman”. I am a mother.

You are mothers and fathers of the children. You know the family values.

Until or unless the woman is fully supported, it is very difficult for her to do the right things.”

to the Super Falcons for winning the 2025 AFCON showed that the government prioritised entertainment over the sacrifices of military retirees.

“I carry iron in my body from injuries sustained while in service.

But they pay millions to athletes for 90 minutes of play and ignore us, who risked everything,” Lawrence Yusuf, a retired Warrant Officer, who served in the military for 31 years, said.

Yusuf said he received only N6.8 million as his gratuity, a sum he said could not buy a plot of land in Nigeria today.

According to him, “After three decades of sacrifice, this is what I get? It’s disgraceful. They also refused to pay our SDA and other entitlements.”

The protesters claimed the government was using a 2019 salary structure to compute their payments, despite adjustments made to the national minimum wage and military allowances since 2024.

They stressed that the outdated payment system had been a key part of their frustration. The protesters also decried being pressured to leave military barracks without receiving the packing allowance meant to facilitate their relocation.

“They didn’t pay us the money to move out, yet they’re evicting us,” one of them further lamented.

Noting that this systemic neglect had gone on for generations, the protesters said, “They did this to our fathers and older brothers in the military. If we don’t speak up now, the same injustice will continue with the next generation.”

While the protest caused temporary disruptions at the finance ministry, the Permanent Secretary for Special Duties finally addressed the angry protesters.

Speaking on behalf of Minister of Finance and the Economic Coordination Team, Edun, he acknowledged their grievances and assured them of the government’s willingness to resolve the matter.

“You are entitled to these benefits.

I give you my word, we will sit with your leaders and find a solution. We have acted on similar issues before and will do so again,” he stated.

Despite the assurances, the protesters vowed to continue their advocacy until their demands were fully met.

They stated their demonstration was not just for themselves, but to prevent future military retirees from experiencing the same injustice.

“We are federal workers. We gave everything to this country.

If nothing is done now, national morale and security will suffer,” one of them said.

They called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene directly and ensure that the rights and sacrifices of Nigeria’s retired military personnel were not ignored.

But when contacted, Public Relations Officer, Military Pension Board, Sqn Ldr. Ahmed Mohammed, blamed the protest on a breach of communication between the authorities and the protesting retirees.

He stated that some of the issues raised by the retirees fell outside the mandate of the Military Pension Board.

Ortuanya Emerges 16th UNN Vice Chancellor, Thanks Tinubu, Mbah for Historic Milestone

Gideon Arinze in Enugu

Professor Simon Ortuanya has been appointed the 16th Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), marking a historic moment as the first indigenous Vice Chancellor from the university’s host Enugu North Senatorial District.

Ortuanya, is a Professor of Law and the current Dean, Faculty of Law at Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), where he has been credited with transforming the faculty’s academic environment and enhancing the global competitiveness of its graduates.

In his acceptance speech after the announcement was made at the meeting of the Governing Council held at the Enugu campus of the university, Ortuanya, who worked

as secretary to the state government under the administration of former Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuaanyi,, paid tribute to key figures who he said played vital roles in making the milestone possible.

“In a special way, I appreciate President Bola Tinubu, for the transformation he has brought to bear in education in Nigeria. We are indeed proud of him, and very proud of his administration,” he said.

He also extended appreciation to the governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, for what he described as his exceptional drive and tenacity in helping actualize the long-standing aspiration of the Nsukka people.

“Let me appreciate our Governor, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, for his determination and commitment, for his doggedness and single-mindedness

in making sure that today becomes a reality,” the new Vice Chancellor said.

Reaffirming his commitment to service, Ortuanya pledged to “serve this university with all my heart and with all my strength,” promising to “reposition the University of Nigeria, to bring its glorious days back.”

“We will redeem our name; we will rebuild the confidence. We will build new dreams, tread the path that has never been walked upon before,” he promised.

He called on all stakeholders, academic and non-academic, to join hands with him in the five-year journey to restore the university’s founding vision “to restore the dignity of man,” adding, “I am extending my hands of friendship and fellowship and brotherhood to each and every one; after all, we are one family.”

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PORTS AND CARGO CONTRACTS MICURA SERVICES FOR STEVEDORING...

L-R: General Manager, Micura Services Limited, Peter Odafe; Deputy Director, SIFAX Group, Oliver Omajuwa; Deputy President General, Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Abubakar Bello; Managing Director, Ports and Cargo Handling Services Limited, John Jenkins; Branch President, MWUN, Bolaji Agboola; and Vice President General, Ibrahim Ohize Tajudeen during the formal take off of Micura’s stevedoring contract at Ports and Cargo Terminal, Tin Can Island, Lagos. ... yesterday

Oando, NNPC Lament Lack of Prosecution of Oil Thieves as Condensates Hawking Thrives on N’Delta Streets Peter Uzoho Oando Energy Resources and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) have again cried out over the failure of government security agencies to prosecute criminals engaged in the stealing and hawking of the nation’s crude oil in the Niger Delta to the detriment of the country’s economy and investors’ return on investment.

The two companies and joint venture partners said the security issues in their area of operation have continued to be a major problem for them, wondering why there has not been any known prosecution of the oil thieves since the war on oil theft began.

They spoke yesterday in Lagos, during a panel session at the ongoing 48th Nigerian Annual International Conference and Exhibition (NAICE) of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Nigeria Council (NAICE), with the theme, “Building a Sustainable Energy Future: Leveraging Technology, Supply Chain, Human Resources, and Policy.”

At the panel which centred on “Reforms and Sustainability of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry,” the General Manager, Base & District Operations, Oando Energy Resources Limited, Mr. Solomon Agbo and the Executive Director, NNPC Energy Services Limited, Mr. Abiola Busola, said the persistent security risk in the Niger Delta contributed to the failure in meeting their oil production

target when Oando took over the Agip assets after divestment.

In his interventions, Agba expressed concern over the inability of the government to prosecute suspected oil thieves deepite news of arrests, urging the security agencies to step up their game to save the oil and gas industry.

He said when Oando took over the divested assets, production increased by 30 per cent even without any new wells, but through optimising existing wells.

However, he said the situation later became tough with the hawking of stolen condensates (a light form of crude oil) on the streets in the Delta area.

According to him, there is a market for stolen crude, a situation that needs to be tackled by security agencies.

Agba said, “So, when we came in August and September, production was bad. By December, we increased by 30 per cent, not with any new wells, but in optimising security architecture. But I’d like to go to the practical level.

“If you go to Obiobi, Obiafu area, you’ll find, just on the road, condensates being sold. Please, security agents, take action.

“First of all, from my personal experience, we need to kill the market. There’s a market.

If you don’t target the market, then it will continue. So we need to target the market. There’s a market that these stolen products

are going to.

“It’s the small boys that are being caught, and they go back to the system. I spoke about prosecution.

Until we do something about prosecution, then the security challenges will not stop.”

He concurred with the call for some social engineering in the Delta, saying a lot of young men probably driven by cultural change and the lack of role models now have a penchant for quick wealth and not minding the consequences.

He called for deliberateness in creating social changes around the rural areas to stem them from

Access Bank Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment through financial literacy, stating that early exposure to banking principles is key to building confident, responsible adults equipped to make smart money choices.

An Access Bank branch in Abuja recently hosted children from the Booker Roots Club on a financial literacy field trip.

The bank described the initiative as part of its wider strategy to promote financial inclusion and education for all age groups.

According to a statement from the bank: “In many homes, money remains a grown-up topic, something children are not expected to understand until much later. But the truth is, financial habits begin

to form early, and unfortunately, so do financial mistakes. That’s why teaching children how money works: how to earn, save, spend, and give, is one of the most powerful things we can do for their future.”

During the engaging session, the young visitors were taken on an interactive tour of the banking hall, where they learned about the basics of money management saving, spending wisely, understanding needs versus wants, and how banks function to help individuals grow their wealth It states: “This field trip was designed to bridge that gap. Through a hands-on, age-appropriate tour of the banking hall, conversations with Access Bank staff, and fun, relatable activities, the children were introduced to concepts like saving, needs vs wants, and how banks

the local government that we need to do quite a lot of work.

“Whatever thing that is being done from Abuja if it does not have the alignment of the people that are around there, it’s just a waste of time,” Agba added.

In his submission, Busola said the above-ground risks in the Delta area led to the NNPC/Oando JV’s failure to achieve the 50,000 barrels of oil which they had promised the management at the takeover of Agip assets by Oando.

“October last year, we finalised the Oando takeover of Agip assets.

Like three, four months before that,

we were meeting every week, getting ready.

“We promised the management 50,000 barrels. We had a lot of expectations, but the reality hit us in the face. And the reality is that, apart from the asset integrity issue, we had talked about, which is also a consequence of the security issue, is that there’s a serious problem in the Delta,” Busola explained.

He admitted that the federal government has continued to intervene through a number of measures, adding that there has to be a behavioural change in the Niger Delta through incentives.

NOVA Opts for Regional Banking Licence, Organic Growth Kayode Tokede

NOVA Bank yesterday announced its intention of a strategic shift in its operating licence from a national to a regional banking licence.

The bank disclosed this in a statement yesterday, stating that the move was aimed at optimising operational efficiency and deepening its impact within key markets.

The management of the bank noted that the repositioning aligns with the bank’s long-term vision to consolidate

Access Bank Harps on Financial Literacy, Empowers Next Generation Through Banking Education Nume Ekeghe

indulging in illegal activities.

He also complained of the lack of complementary action by the states and local governments in tackling security challenges in the Delta, pointing out that only the federal government has been taking steps to address the situation.

“Lastly, and I will say this, I’ve seen a lot of effort from the federal government, but I’ve not seen a lot of effort from the sub-nationals.

“And they are the people closest to these facilities. So I want to see collaboration between the federal, state, local governments, and the operators. It’s between the state and

help people grow their money. It was not just a fun day out; it was a deliberate move to equip the next generation with financial confidence.”

Access Bank emphasised that its financial literacy drive is part of a larger vision to create a more inclusive economy where everyone, regardless of age or background, has the opportunity to participate meaningfully.

They added: “Access Bank, long committed to driving community impact through education and inclusion, is reinforcing a simple but powerful message: you’re never too young to understand money.

By making banking approachable and financial education accessible, the bank is helping shape a future where young people are not only dreamers, but planners, savers, and future investors.

its strengths, streamline its services, and deploy capital more effectively within targeted regions, without compromising its commitment to innovation, customer satisfaction, and sustainable growth.

“To this effect, NOVA has applied to the CBN to recategorise its operating license from a national to a regional commercial banking licence,” the statement added.

According to the bank, NOVA maintains a strong financial position, underpinned by robust capital adequacy, liquidity ratios, and a consistent growth trajectory.

NOVA’s Acting Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Chinwe Iloghalu, was quoted to have explained that following the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN)

revised recapitalisation directive in March 2024, “NOVA reviewed its growth trajectory and capital utilisation strategy.”

“Given the bank’s current stage of growth, we have chosen the prudent route to optimise what we need, grow efficiently, and scale sustainably.

“This is a major strategic positioning that will ensure continued efficiency in the deployment of assets and resources,” she said.

Iloghalu further stated: “Indeed, our shareholders have shown strong commitment to ensuring full capitalisation through rights issue by injection of additional N24 billion before the end of 2025 to exceed the prescribed capital for regional banks well ahead of the 2026 CBN deadline”.

Global Credit Rating (GCR)

recently reaffirmed NOVA Bank’s BBB rating with a Stable Outlook, citing the bank’s healthy liquidity profile, improving earnings, and sound asset quality.

The bank’s audited 2024 financials validate the effectiveness of its growth strategy, recording over 200 percent year-on-year growth in profit before tax (PBT), alongside improvements across all key financial indicators.

NOVA is set to launch three new branches in the coming weeks, including Owerri, Port Harcourt, and Abuja, to enhance physical access and customer service, while strengthening its digital banking infrastructure to ensure customers continue to enjoy secure, seamless, and convenient banking experiences, anywhere, anytime.

AbdulRazaq Directs N20bn Allocation to Further Revamp School Infrastructure in Kwara Hammed Shittu in Ilorin Kwara State Governor, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq yesterday directed the allocation of N20bn in the supplementary budget for further revamp of school infrastructure across the state.

AbdulRazaq however said the new investment will strengthen the massive infrastructural upgrade in public schools which the administration has embarked upon since 2020 after retooling Kwara’s relationship with the Universal Basic Education

Commission (UBEC).

A statement issued in Ilorin signed by the state Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, stated that, “His Excellency has instructed that we dedicate another N20bn to school infrastructural upgrades.

“The process has started already.

The designs are being made, and we will get down to this as soon as the supplementary budget is approved”.

AbdulRazaq said, “This is

not a standalone effort. It is only another major intervention of the administration to scale up what we have been doing.

“Between 2019 and now, the administration has worked on more than 1,254 classrooms — apart from several other special interventions.”

He said the administration is proud to have implemented SUBEB-UBEC school intervention projects from 2014 and now.

The governor said that, such a feat t is unique to the present administration in the state.

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OLUMO ROCK ABEOKUTA WEARS A NEW LOOK...

L-R: The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism; Mr Sesan Fagbayi, Ogun State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC); Chief Yemi Sanusi,the Alake and paramount ruler of Egbaland; Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo,Ogun State Governor; Prince Dapo Abiodun,Speaker,Ogun State House of Assembly; Rt. Hon Oludaisi Elemide, founder, Nike Art Gallery; Chief(Dr) Nike Ogundaye, Head of Service; Mr. Kehinde Onasanya and the Olowu of Owu; Oba (Prof) Saka Matemilola during the commissioning of the newly renovated Olumo Rock tourist center, Abeokuta,Ogun State... recently

APC : ADC, el -Rufai Confused and Clueless; Abdulahi: Ruling Party Weaponising Personal Attacks

Chuks Okocha and Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

All Progressives Congress (APC) has described African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the immediate past governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, as the most confused, clueless, rudderless and pitiful opposition politicians the country has ever known.

The ruling party stressed that it was now clear to all Nigerians that El-Rufai and his cohorts in ADC were on a mission to upset the presidential rotational principle designed to promote national

unity and cohesion in the country through the imposition of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as presidential candidate of ADC in the middle of a southern presidency rotation.

But ADC, in its reply, accused the ruling party of weaponising personal attacks to divert attention from its glaring failures in governance, saying APC has a responsibility to answer to Nigerians.

National Publicity Secretary of APC, Felix Morka, in a statement, said since El-Rufai’s failed bid for a ministerial appointment, he had

gone into a political tailspin.

Morka stated that El-Rufai’s attack on President Bola Tinubu’s administration as incompetent, clannish and undeserving of a second term, at a meeting in Sokoto on August 2, was yet another outburst of a waspish politician.

APC said, “El-Rufai and his partners in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) are the most confused, clueless, rudderless and pitiful opposition politicians our country has ever known.

“They bring nothing to the political table except their oversized ego, wild entitlement mentality,

Wike Gives Fresh Conditions for PDP Convention as against 360 days, however, attacked former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, describing him as an incorrigible defector.

He hinted that the six-month state of emergency declared in Rivers may soon be lifted following a directive

by President Tinubu mandating local government elections within 30 days rather than the previously expected 360-day time frame.

Wike noted that President Tinubu was not bent on extending the emergency rule as doing so would not be in the interest of the Rivers people.

He also affirmed that the Rivers State administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, had the constitutional authority to oversee the elections and restore democratic governance at the grassroots level.

Attacking Atiku, he said political dissent ran in the bloodstream of Atiku, who is one of the masterminds of the coalition against the re-election bid of President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

“You can’t change it. Atiku was in PDP in 1999. Have you forgotten?

Under Obasanjo he had problem.

Then he later joined ACN controlled

by Bola Tinubu, who is incidentally the president now.

“After ACN, he came back to PDP. Is that not correct? Then what happened? He moved back to APC. From APC again, he came back to PDP – just to get presidential ticket every time! From PDP now, he has gone to ADC again.

“Kai, let me tell you something.

If I am his son, I will sit him down and say ‘dad, whatever it is, how can you tell me as your son. You have made this history of jumping from one party till you are almost 80 something years. How?” he said.

Wike also dismissed insinuations that Atiku’s defection to ADC was premised on the urge to rescue Nigeria, saying he was the vice-president for eight years and Chairman of National Economic Council under President Obasanjo.

He further derided Atiku and other coalition leaders, saying they joined APC because they could no longer exert their authority in the PDP. “All this had to do with presidential ambition. The way PDP is now, is not likely that Atiku will get the ticket and he is no longer comfortable. Then he goes to tell

you, ‘let’s go and do coalition against Tinubu’. Is it not correct? It is because he cannot get the Presidential ticket under PDP,” Wike said.

He similarly descended on the interim National Chairman of ADC, Senator David Mark, saying the pressure to impose Mark as the National Chairman of PDP, representing North Central was rejected when it was mooted before the crisis that led to the defeat of PDP in the 2023 election.

Wike said: “We refused. What change would he bring to the party?

He was the Senate President for eight years. What happened? What improved? I have said I preferred someone who had not held any position.

“I would not listen to anybody who has been in power for donkey years and who has refused to contribute anything to the development of the country. And now, you come to tell me this story that ‘look, we need to rescue this country’. You were there the country was sinking.

Did you rescue it?”

CP-PDP to Party Members: Ignore Wike’s Comments on Party Affairs

The Conference of Professionals in the Peoples Democratic Party (CP-PDP) has called on members and Nigerians alike to disregard the outburst by Wike, wherein he postured to dictate and set conditions on the internal running of the great party.

The group said it did not consider Wike a member of the party, having openly said he was working for the ruling party and President Bola Tinubu.

In a statement by the chairman of the PDP Professionals,, Obinna Nwachukeu, the group said, ‘’While as the umbrella of professionals in the PDP, Conference will not descend to join issues with an appointee and apologist of the failed Tinubu administration, the FCT Minister must realise that the PDP as a party has gone beyond being controlled, influenced or bullied by diatribes.’’

However, for the benefit of the public, the group said it was important to state that the PDP through its relevant organs, has since decided on its leadership structure in the South South and

South East, in line with the Friday, March 21, 2025 judgment of the Supreme Court which affirmed the supremacy of political parties in the management of its internal affairs, including determination of its officials, membership and even nomination of candidates for election among others to which the courts have no jurisdiction. ‘’It is public knowledge that the PDP, having not conducted its Zonal congress in the South South, appointed the Chief Emmanuel Ogidi-led Caretaker Committee to oversee the Chapter in keeping with the provisions of the Constitution of the party.

“In the same manner, the PDP duly conducted its South East Zonal Congress which also produced the Chief Ali Odefa-led South East Zonal Exco of the party. The two chapters have been functioning effectively. ‘’Chief Wike’s reference to court orders on the issue of the leadership of the South South and South East chapters of the party is therefore of no moment and should be disregarded, ignored or at best treated as a beer parlour outburst,” it stated.

obscene desperation and predatory presidential ambitions.

“Beyond baseless headline attacks against the present administration and the All Progressives Congress (APC), El-Rufai and cohorts have not presented and, quite frankly, cannot present policy prescriptions with potential for more effectiveness than those already being implemented by the Tinubu administration, with strong indicators of success.”

Morka stressed that all the three major contestants in the 2023 presidential election campaigned to remove fuel subsidy and harmonise multiple foreign exchange regimes in recognition of the urgency and seriousness of the country’s economic challenges.

He said upon Tinubu’s election and inauguration, he swiftly implemented policy reforms as he promised.

The party spokesman alleged that after their “crushing” defeat at the polls, Atiku and Peter Obi recanted their policy reform positions in order to “justify sitting shamelessly at the table of hypocrisy and hurling invectives” at Tinubu and APC for implementing reform policies they also promised Nigerians.

Morka added, “If El-Rufai and his cohorts detest the administration’s policy reforms as much as they claim, why have they not presented policy proposals to restore fuel subsidy as it was and return the country to the ruinous era of fixing Naira’s value and operating multiple foreign exchange regimes that fed the greedy and insatiable appetite of the likes of El-Rufai, Atiku, Obi and Rotimi Amaechi for decades?

“And while at it, to tell Nigerians how they would finance the resultant massive deficit that would ground the economy to a devastating crumble. El-Rufai’s

claims are as mischievous as they are hollow.”

Morka explained that with a steady rebound in the economy and other indicators of verifiable progress in all sectors, including the ongoing revolution in agriculture, high performing stock exchange market, improved power generation and transmission, increased oil production at nearly 1.8mbpd, consistent trade surpluses, among others, El-Rufai’s verdict of “poor governance and failed leadership” fell flat as no more than the rants of an inconsolable sulker.

He stated, “The rejection of El-Rufai as a Minister cannot justify his allegation of clannishness against the administration. A senseless claim like that can only come from someone who haughtily equates his selfish interest with the interest of an entire ethnic nationality.”

APC insisted that Tinubu was one of the most detribalised and patriotic Nigerians alive, adding that no tribe, ethnic or religious group has been side-lined like El-Rufai wanted Nigerians to believe.

You Must Answer to Nigerians, Not Hide Behind Personal Attacks, ADC Fires Back

ADC told APC to stop weaponising personal attacks to distract from its failures in governance, adding that the ruling party has a responsibility to answer to the people.

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, ADC said APC had continued to behave like an opposition party, despite controlling the full machinery of the Nigerian government.

ADC challenged APC to answer for its record on insecurity, economic collapse, and national

disunity.

Responding to the latest statement by APC on El-Rufai and the new opposition coalition, ADC said APC had chosen distraction over substance, insults over introspection, and propaganda over performance, adding, “But we must remind them that while words can be manipulated, the facts on ground cannot.”

Abdullahi said at a time when Nigerians were looking for answers to insecurity, hunger, joblessness, and despair, the ruling party, under Tinubu, had chosen to attack those asking the hard questions.

He said it was unfortunate that a party that held the presidency, controlled both chambers of the National Assembly, and commanded the vast resources of the Nigerian state still behaved as if it was in opposition.

ADC stated, “You cannot wield this level of national power and still refuse to accept responsibility for the condition of the country.

Governance is about delivering results. And by any basic metric, the APC has failed.

“The economic collapse under this administration is well documented. Food inflation has pushed even the most basic meals beyond the reach of ordinary citizens.

Transport costs have doubled.

“The naira has crashed, and there is no credible plan in sight for recovery. Public debt has ballooned to nearly N200 trillion. The claim that this government is managing debt better is not just dishonest, it is dangerous. What we have is reckless borrowing with no clear fiscal anchor or sustainable repayment plan.

“Yet when the APC is questioned about this ruinous path, its response is to dredge up figures about state governors from years past. It is Continued on page 27

With over 1.8m Bpd Peak Oil Output in July, Nigeria Inches Towards Meeting 2025 Budget Benchmark $75 per barrel.

The government expects oil revenues to contribute roughly N19.6 trillion of revenue from the oil sector, an aspiration that has been hobbled by underproduction of hydrocarbons.

Speaking at the ongoing Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Nigeria Annual International Conference and Exhibition (NAICE) in Lagos, the Chief Executive of the NUPRC, Gbenga Komolafe, noted that during the month of July, Nigeria’s average production hovered around 1.78 million bpd.

His speech was themed: “Building a Sustainable Energy Future: Leveraging Technology, Supply Chain, Human Resources and Policy”.

At the event, Komolafe stated that the NUPRC as the upstream industry regulator, has its responsibility beyond compliance, stressing that it is focusing on enabling a stable, efficient, and forward-looking upstream sector, one that balances the imperatives of energy security,

environmental responsibility, and economic sustainability.

With technology central to enabling a dynamic and vibrant industry, Komolafe stated that Nigeria is witnessing a shift in exploration, development and production methods anchored on technological transformation.

At the commission, he noted the NUPRC continues to promote technology adaptation and sanctioning novel technologies in all areas of Exploration and Production (E&P), from traditional operations to innovative approaches for decarbonisation and emission reduction.

By the same token, the NUPRC, Komolafe explained, has embraced technology in its regulatory operations to enhance service delivery, improve turnaround time and rejig its business process.

These, he explained, are not just technical upgrades, but part of a broader effort to entrench transparency, promote accountability and reduce costs, all geared towards enabling industry growth and vitality.

He stated that a reliable and vibrant supply chain was critical for reducing lead times, lowering costs, and strengthening national capacity, with NUPRC having taken deliberate steps to create a regulatory environment that supports the growth of service companies, both international and indigenous.

According to him, the NUPRC’s approach to regulatory enablement is geared towards domestication of technology, promoting local manufacturing, and enhancing overall supply chain resilience.

“Beyond regulation, the commission is implementing core initiatives to drive positive industry actions and imperatives. To begin with, just last week, the commission assembled industry practitioners to deliberate on a workable strategy to foster cluster development in the shallow and deepwater.

“Through an industry-wide implementation vehicle, we will evolve policy frameworks and operational mechanisms to valorise stranded or marginally economic

oil & gas resources through joint development strategies.

“In a similar vein, the commission is pursuing the Project 1 MMBOPD incremental initiative with modest gains recorded owing to the multistakeholder collaborative approach adopted. We are glad to report that we crossed the 1.8 million bpd mark on peak production last month, with average production hovering at 1.78 million bpd,” Komolafe stated.

Besides, Komolafe, at the event, noted that the NUPRC was working to ensure minimal production disruptions to crude oil production with the deployment of the Maximum Efficient Rate (MER) framework.

“As part of our commitment towards sustainable production, the commission is optimising the Maximum Efficient Rate (MER) framework, addressing produced water management, and aligning operational shutdowns and turnaround maintenance schedules to ensure minimal production disruptions,” Continued on page 27

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NEWS

TALKING BOOKS AFRICA WITH FORMER PRESIDENT GOODLUCK JONATHAN...

L-R: Former President, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan; Host, Talking Books Africa, Tarari Kalango; and the Founder, Rainbow Book Club, Koko Kalango, at a recent event of Talking Books Africa held in Abuja…recently

FG Seeks Passage of Occupational Safety Bill to Expand Social Security NSITF pays N172.5m to Beneficiaries

Oluchi Chibuzor

The federal government has called on the National Assembly to urgently consider the passage of the Occupational Safety Bill for the expansion of the social security ecosystem in the country. This comes as Minister of Labour, Employment and Productivity, Muhammad Dingyadi, said Nigeria’s social security landscape required strategic reforms to expand coverage, improve benefits,

and ensure the sustainability of social insurance programmes.

Speaking at a retreat in Lagos for the Joint Committee on Employment, Labour and Productivity, and other stakeholders, organised by the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Dingyadi said efforts should be made to re-strategise the social security landscape.

He said as Minister for Labour and Employment, he was aware of the critical role that social security

and labour productivity played in driving sustainable economic growth and ensuring the well-being of the country’s workforce.

He also said it was imperative that the nation addressed challenges facing the social security systems and work towards enhancing the productivity of the labour force.

Dingyadi stated, “It is, however, saddening to note that 15 years since the ECA came into law, enrolment into the scheme remains low, rob-

bing affected workers of adequate compensation and turning many breadwinners into liabilities with a bleak future for them and their dependents.

“This situation prevents our nation from harnessing the full potential and productivity of affected persons.

“It is my sincere hope that the legislature will work within this event’s deliberations to strategise on the way forward to amend laws as necessary and pass new Bills such

WAEC Releases 2025 WASSCE Results for School Candidates Records 38.32% pass in Math, English

Funmi Ogundare West African Examinations Council (WAEC), yesterday, released the results of the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for school candidates.

WAEC revealed that while 87.24 per cent of candidates obtained Credit and above in at least five subjects, only 38.32 per cent achieved this in English Language and Mathematics, marking a sharp 33. 8 per cent drop from the 72.12 per cent recorded in 2024.

Head of National Office, Mr. Amos Dangut, who briefed journalists in Lagos, explained that the examination had a total of 1,973,365 registered candidates from 23, 554 recognised schools,

with 1,969,313 actually sitting for the examination in Nigeria and across some WAEC-accredited institutions in Benin Republic, Côte d’Ivoire, and Equatorial Guinea.

A breakdown of the results showed that out of the total number of candidates that sat for the examination, 1,517,517 candidates, representing 77.06 per cent, had their results fully processed and released. Only 754,545 candidates, representing 38.32 per cent, obtained Credit and above in at least five subjects, including English and Mathematics.

Out of that figure, 407,353, representing 53.99 per cent, were females and 347,192, representing 46.01 per cent, were males.

A total of 451,796 candidates,

representing 22.94 per cent, had parts of their results still being processed.

1,718,090 candidates, representing 87.24 per cent, obtained Credit and above in any five subjects, regardless of English or Mathematics.

“This performance shows a significant decline from last year’s 72.12 per cent achievement in this critical benchmark,” Dangut stated.

The HNO stated that a total of 12,178 special needs candidates were catered for, including; 112 visually impaired, 615 with hearing loss, 52 mentally challenged, and 37 physically challenged.

The results of 292,089 candidates, representing 9.75 per cent, were being withheld due to reported cases of examination malpractice, he said. While this marked an

BUA Cement Empowers Sokoto Youths Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto

BUA Cement has launched a Host Community Empowerment Programme aimed at providing training and certification for 60 graduates from its host communities in the operation of heavy-duty machinery.

The programme, which was designed to empower local youth, would equip them with employable skills in heavy-duty machine operation, including driving, repairing, and maintaining excavators and tippers.

Speaking at the launch event, the company’s Plant Director, Engr.

Aminu Bashir, who represented the Managing Director/CEO, Engr. Muhammad Haliru Binji, stated that the six-month training includes comprehensive instruction and certification in heavy-duty machine operations.

He added that the graduates are expected to gain employment either with BUA Cement or other organisations of their choice.

Those employed by the company would receive a monthly allowance of N150,000.

Speakers at the event described the initiative as a rare opportunity for participants to acquire valuable skills and secure meaningful

employment in today’s competitive job market.

One of the graduates, Muhammad Bello, expressed gratitude to BUA Cement for what he described as a life-transforming initiative, praising the impact of the company’s corporate social responsibility efforts on its host communities.

The Host Community Empowerment Programme is part of BUA Cement’s efforts to give back to its host communities and contribute to the development of local talent. The programme is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of the participants and their communities.

improvement from the 11.92 per cent recorded in 2024, there were persistent issues of increasing use of mobile phones during exams, organised cheating in some schools, and collusion involving supervisors and teachers, Dangut said, adding that the council will sanction all offenders He stated, “Investigations are ongoing and decisions will be made by the council’s Examination Committee. Candidates involved can file appeals via waecinternational. org/complaints.”

as the Occupational Safety and Health Bill and the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund Act 2010 to align with the Employees Compensation Act 2010.

“This will go a long way to ensure a holistic repositioning of the Fund, as well as empower it to effectively fulfil its mandate.”

The minister added, “I am committed to working closely with the NSITF and National Assembly Committees on Employment, Labour, and Productivity to enact legislation that will bolster our social security framework and promote initiatives aimed at enhancing overall labour productivity.

“Collaboration between the executive and legislative arms of government is crucial in driving meaningful reforms that will benefit our citizens and contribute to the nation’s socio-economic advancement.”

He stressed that Nigeria must strive to create a robust social security system that provided adequate protection for workers against income loss due to unemployment, disability, old age, and other contingencies.

Dingyadi said, “We must strive to create a robust social security system that provides adequate protection for workers against income loss due to unemployment, disability, old age, and other contingencies.

“Let me clarify that a sustainable future in this context captures that of the individual worker and the nation at large. Labour is indeed key

among other factors of production, as it is the only factor of production that is skilled, creative and adds value. However, it is this humanity that can also serve as the Achilles heel of labour making it subject to errors and susceptible to diseases, injuries, disabilities and death.”

Delivering his opening speech, Managing Director/Chief Executive of NSITF, Oluwaseun Faleye, said the presence of National Assembly members was not just an endorsement of the Employee Compensation Scheme (ECS), but also a bold declaration that “we are ready to think together, act together, and build together.”

Faleye said, “Indeed, this event is primarily at their request, and it goes to demonstrate the openness between the legislature and the executive to collaborate on critical issues to advance the social welfare of Nigerians.

“It is the second in the series of this initiative, and I am glad that all stakeholders are aligned that an engagement of this nature can only further deepen our understanding of the social welfare scheme in general and the operationality of the Employees’ Compensation Scheme in particular.

“Between June and July, the NSITF paid a total of N172.5 million to beneficiaries on the scheme, while employee enrolment in the formal sector rose by 151 per cent to almost eight million.

Rotary Club District 9127 Catches Them Young, Trains Over 400 Youths from 16 States

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

In an attempt to meet the demands of employability and close the unemployment gap, Rotary Club of District 9127 hosted youths from 16 states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), in its annual programme, Rotary Youth Leadership Academy (RYLA), at the School of Treasury, Orozo, in the FCT. District Governor, Dr. Joy Nky Okoro, stated that the selfdevelopment programme, themed, “Passion, action and reaction,” was targeted at youths ages 15-30.

Okoro said it involved training the youths on skills acquisition, which included shoe making, photography, disposable sanitary wares and other things of interest,

after which seed grants will be given to each outstanding participant.

Emphasising that the training was set to reduce overdependence on white-collar jobs, which she said was hard to come by, the district governor said many youths had been impacted through such life-changing programmes organised by the club.

According to her, “They’ll be taught skills that include shoe making, bags and even disposable sanitary wares, photography and several others.

“When leaving the camp, the best of them will be empowered so that after leaving the camp, instead of going to look for white collar jobs, or sitting and waiting for it, which we know is not available, they can start off with the skilful things they have learnt from this place.

“This year, we are training about 400 of them and they have been equipped with everything. Each that has done very well will be given seed money. District 9127 has 16 states including the FCT and many of them come from the states which comprise the North West, North East and North Central. The participants are university and secondary school students.

“Many have been trained and have gone to start helping themselves in the labour market.’’

In his teaching, titled, “Unlocking youth potential: enhancing emotional intelligence and resilience,” training consultant and Rotarian, Dr. Baba Abdul Bala, said environment, change in behaviours and improving on talents and skills remained the gateway to success.

TUESDAY AUGUST 5, 2025 • T H I S D AY

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NEWS

ONE-DAY CAPACITY BUILDING WORKSHOP ON RETHINKING THE NCD CRISIS...

L-R: Vice Chairman, Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria (BJAN), Lukman Ishau; Associate Professor of Finance, Department of Finance, LASU, Dr. Ajibola Arewa; Nutrition Institute and Wyeth Nutrition Science Centre Manager, Central and West Africa, Nestlé, Dr. Kanalio Yvonne Olalokun; President, BJAN, Mr. Daniel Obi; and Secretary, BJAN, Adedayo Odulaja, during the one-day capacity building workshop on “Rethinking the NCD Crisis: A Holistic Approach to the Debate in Nigeria”, organised by Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria, held in Lagos…weekend

Magodo Residents Petition SanwoOlu Over Hazardous Construction Say their safety at risk, raise the alarm over ecological disaster

Wale Igbintade Residents of Magodo GRA, Phase 2, have sent a passionate “Save Our Souls” appeal to Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, urging him to urgently halt a proposed construction project on a landlocked gorge within the estate.

They warned that the development posed grave risks to lives, property, and the environment.

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Mr. Niyi Odusi, Magodo Residents Association (MRA) called on the governor to intervene in what it described as a “potentially hazardous” project.

According to the association, ongoing construction activities on the gorge, originally designated in the estate’s master plan as a natural storm water collection point, threaten to destabilise the community’s environmental balance.

MRA stated, “The wetland, among other ecological benefits,

serves as a natural storm collector and flood control container for all stormwater and flash floods from Agidingbi, Ikeja, Ogba, Alausa, etc.

It is also the singular floodplain that has shielded Magodo from soil erosion, flooding, and floodrelated diseases and disasters over the decades.”

The residents alleged that the project, being pursued by a private developer and reportedly backed by officials of the Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning, could disrupt the estate’s ecosystem and compromise its infrastructure.

“Any attempt to distort this natural setting is not only ill-advised but could trigger catastrophic ecological consequences,” the association warned.

The residents said, “Our concern is that developers, aided by top officials of Lagos State Physical Planning, have decided to build in the gorge and are bent on distorting the natural setting and peace of our environment at the expense of exist-

ing properly situated properties, infrastructural conveniences, and thereby cause ecological distortions in an otherwise natural and stable space.

“Our suspicion is that there may be individuals within these agencies in cahoots with this developer.”

They explained that they had repeatedly raised objections with

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have been dragged before a Federal High Court in Abuja, for allegedly failing to investigate fraud allegations against the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd (NNPCL), Mr. Dapo Segun.

The suit by an Abuja based civil group, Rights for All International, is specifically seeking an order of the court, compelling the anti-graft agency to commence investigation and probable prosecution of the NNPCL CFO, over alleged financial complicity in the acquisition of the OVH Energy by the NNPC and the rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries.

According to the applicant, Mr. Segun who was a former Executive Vice President (Downstream) of the NNPCL supervised the acquisition of the OVH Energy by the NNPCL

as well as rehabilitation of the Port-Harcourt and Warri Refineries, with their attendant and manifest irregularities.

They claimed that despite the payment of a whooping sum of $325.09 million (N140.559 billion), full takeover of the firm remains a subject of controversy, and under investigation in the House of Representatives where investigation of the Turn Around Maintenance of refineries and state of the refineries and OVH Acquisition are currently been investigated.

“Presently, under the 2nd respondent, about $3 Billion have been sunk in the rehabilitation of the refineries, with no significant result till date.

“In view of the monumental fraud evident in the acquisition of the OVH Energy and the rehabilitation of the refineries, the 1st respondent (EFCC) have commenced investigation of the officers of the NNPCL, however, it deliberately excluded the 2nd respondent, the main official, who

tion planted to protect the gorge.

To avert what they described as an “avoidable disaster”, MRA urged Sanwo-Olu to issue an immediate stop-work order, review the original master plan, compel the restoration of the natural setting, and provide adequate infrastructure if any development was to proceed.

While commending the Com-

missioner for Environment, Dr. Tokunbo Wahab, for championing environmental preservation, and praising Sanwo-Olu’s broader efforts to protect Lagos’ ecosystem, the residents emphasised that “urgent intervention is now necessary to safeguard the safety, security, and quality of life in Magodo GRA Phase 2.”

Olubadan-in-Council Nominates Ladoja as 44th Olubadan Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan Members of the Olubadan-inCouncil, on Monday, nominated former Oyo State Governor, Senator Rashidi Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

Ladoja’s nomination was moved

EFCC Sued over Failure to Probe Dapo Segun’s Alleged Complicity in Refineries’ Maintenance Fraud Alex Enumah in Abuja

relevant government agencies, including through a formal letter submitted in April, but were shocked to see demolition and excavation works on the site, allegedly under armed security protection.

They said the activities had already damaged surrounding properties and destabilised vegeta-

personally supervised all the affairs of the NNPCL under investigation”, the group alleged.

In the suit marked: FHC/ ABJ/ CS/1580/2025, and filed on Monday by its team of lawyers led by Nnamdi Kingdom Okere, the group submitted that the failure of the EFCC to include the CFO amongst others being investigated amounts to failure of its statutory duty and therefore constitutes an abuse of powers and ultra vires.

Amongst the reliefs they are seeking from the court includes an Order of Mandamus directing the EFCC “to within 7 days commence investigation of the fraudulent conduct or role of the 2nd respondent, as the Chief Financial Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, in connection with the acquisition of OVH Energy by the NNPCL and rehabilitation of the Port-Harcourt and Warri Refineries and to publish the Report of the Investigation within 14 days of its conclusion”.

by the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, and seconded by the Osi Olubadan, Oba Eddy Oyewole, during a meeting held at the Oke-Aremo palace of the Olubadan.

Ajibola, while speaking at the meeting, said all members of the Olubadan-in-Council had signed off on Ladoja’s nomination. He added that the council would now forward Ladoja’s name to Governor Seyi Makinde, for official ratification and scheduling of the coronation ceremony, where the Staff and Certificate of Office will be presented.

Ajibola said, “When one king transits, another one is enthroned.

It is in line with the tradition of Ibadanland that we are holding this meeting today (Monday).

“It is on this premise that I,

Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, the Balogun of Ibadanland, nominated Oba Rashidi Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

“His nomination was seconded by the new Otun Olubadan, Oba Eddy Oyewole. The position that was previously held by Oba Ladoja before his nomination as Olubadan designate.

“We (members of the OlubadanIn-Council) have all signed and nominated Oba Rashidi Ladoja as the new Olubadan of Ibadanland.

“We will forward the resolutions of our meeting to our Governor, Seyi Makinde. He will now pick a date to present a staff of Office to the new Olubadan in accordance with the 1957 Chieftaincy Declaration as amended.”

Ajibola explained, “The late

Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, will be buried this week.

So, this week is not feasible.

“He (Makinde) may decide to pick three weeks, two weeks or one week. The Olubadan stool cannot remain vacant for long; that is why we are glad with the decision of the council members.

“We are hopeful that the governor will not delay in assenting to the decision of the council.”

The nomination of Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland followed completion of the 21day mourning period for the late Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who died on July 7, 2025, after reigning for one year.

Olakulehin succeeded Oba (Dr.) Mohood Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland.

Court Orders Forfeiture of Bentley, Toyota Venza, $20,000 Other Assets Linked to Suspected Fraudsters

Wale Igbintade

Justice Dehinde Dipeolu of the Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered the final forfeiture of two vehicles, a white Bentley Coupe and a blue Toyota Venza, allegedly linked to suspected internet fraudster, German Daniel Onoriede.

The judge also granted interim forfeiture of $20,000, CFA110,000, and a blue Nissan Almera, following separate applications by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The EFCC’s counsel, H.U. Kofarnaisa, told the court that the Bentley and Venza were recovered during an August 14, 2023 sting operation at Ocean Bay Estate, Lekki.

According to an affidavit by EFCC investigator Bufa Okangbe, Onoriede evaded arrest but abandoned the cars, which were allegedly acquired with proceeds of unlawful activities.

Investigations reportedly showed over N500 million in suspicious credits to his bank accounts between 2018 and 2023.

On the interim forfeiture, another

EFCC investigator, Solomon Usman, said a suspected fraudster abandoned a Nissan Almera at Seme Border on July 13, 2025, after spotting Nigerian Customs Service operatives.

A search of the vehicle revealed $20,000 and CFA110,000, which the EFCC said were suspected to be proceeds of crime.

Justice Dipeolu granted both applications and ordered the EFCC to publish the interim order in a national newspaper to allow any interested party to contest the forfeiture.

TUESDAY AUGUST 5, 2025 • T H I S D AY

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Ondo State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Kayode Ajulo, OON, SAN

‘Àmòtèkun’s Success is the Most Potent Reason for State Police’

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T H I S D AY • TueSday, AUGUST 5, 2025

In this edition

R E Y W LA TU eS day, aU

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llout weekly pu

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Power of Court to Reframe Issues Formulated by Parties Page IV

er for and Commission orney-General Ondo State att e ajulo, OON, SaN Justice, dr Kayod

s s e c c u S ’s n ‘Àmòtèku Potent t s o M e h t s i ’ e c i l o P e t a t S Reason for Quotable ‘In Plateau, 2004…In 2006, Ekiti, and now, it’s Rivers. Once the court doesn’t define the extent of the powers of the President when a state of emergency is imposed on a State, or on the entire country or in a Local Government, we are going to be in crisis.’ - Femi Falana, SAN, Human Rights Activist and Lawyer

Etigwe Uwa Exhibition: Fashola, SAN Urges Legal Reforms to Protect Artists Page V

UniLag Law Students Host Inaugural Media and Law Summit PageV

Court Denies Fresh Bail for Ajudua Amid Supreme Court Motion Page V

lawyer

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

III The advocate

T H I S D AY • TueSday, AUGUST 5, 2025

2027: Beyond Ethnic and Regional Ambush

"A Politician thinks of the next election; a Statesman thinks of the next generation.”

- James Freeman Clarke

T

Founding Fathers he truth of the matter is that, none of our so-called leaders/Politicians of today, can be compared to our Founding Fathers, the Sardauna of Sokoto, Sir Ahmadu Bello, KBE, GCON (Gamji); Dr Michael Okpara, GCON and Chief Obafemi Awolowo, GCFR, SAN. They were statesmen; now, we have Politicians.

The Insincerity of Present-day Politicians I decided to take a break from our series on lawlessness of law enforcement, to discuss Nigerian Politicians generally. Let me state categorically that I do not hold court for the Tinubu administration or anyone; I just state the facts as I see them.

Many consider our present-day Politicians to be one of the most selfish, self-centred, self-serving bunch of people in History! The words of James Clarke, aptly describe the average Nigerian Politician - they only think about the next election, how to get into power and stay in power forever, amass wealth for themselves, gain everlasting control, and not much else. They are not too concerned about the welfare of the people. And, this behaviour of doing anything to stay in office, isn’t limited to Nigerian Politicians alone - we have Paul Biya, Yuweri Museveni, Alassane Quattara, Faustin-Archange Touadera and Co, who want to die in office, while we have the ‘Oyinbo’ Kemi Badenoch, who will say anything to be popular with British, including denying her Nigerian heritage/lying that her children cannot get Nigerian citizenship because she’s a woman. See Section 25(1)(a)-(c) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) (the Constitution).

So, as the next cycle of elections are almost upon us, this is the time when all Nigerians must “shine their eyes”, and question not just the performance of the ruling APC and all the 2023-2027 administrations, that is, Federal and State Governments vis-à-vis how well they have fared in achieving the goals set in Chapter II of the Constitution - the Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy, but, to thoroughly interrogate the Opposition who seek to replace them, their agenda and solutions to the problems we are facing, that is, if they have any viable alternatives or plans. Of course, a strong opposition is always required for a democracy to thrive - the threat that if you don’t do well, there are others standing by who can replace you. See Sections 38(1) & 40 of the Constitution which guarantee the right of every Nigerian to freedom of thought and association, respectively.

The Revamped ADC But, take for instance, the revamped Opposition Party, ADC, which appears to have taken over from PDP as the main opposition party; its Promoters are not brand new people who just dropped from Jupiter or Mars; a good number of them are not only Politicians who have moved through the two major political parties that have landed Nigeria in these dire straits, that is, the PDP and APC (or at least, one of them), they have also held office at the highest level of governance. And so, instead of listening to their divisive rhetoric - using ethnicity, religion and all manner of devices to cause division amongst Nigerians for their own advantage, voters should be asking how they performed when they were in office - whether they looted the treasury, and most importantly, their party’s manifesto and specific solutions to important matters affecting Nigeria such as security, development and corruption, and how they intend to outperform the incumbent administration.

A Battle of Policies, Not Personalities and Nonsense It is no longer good enough for any aspiring Politician or office holder, or party hoping take over as the ruling party, to tell us that the Tinubu administration is bad, Nigerians are hungry etc, without showcasing their viable, alternative policies that will prove that they have a better agenda. Is that not how the Jonathan administration was voted out? People who had been part of the failure of PDP simply jumped ship, repackaged themselves, took advantage of the fact that the Northern elite always wants the Presidency of Nigeria, President Buhari’s popularity and huge number of votes he came with, and with absolutely no agenda or focus, won the election, and ran the country more into the ground! We simply went from frying pan to fire!

Nigerians mustn’t fall for this again. We must question the motives of every opposition, particularly as one of the main ADC members, Malam Nasir El Rufai, once told Nigerians that, as the opposition, even when the incumbent is doing anything good, you must criticise and condemn what they’re doing - a self-centred, underhand tactic, to gain votes. As an electorate that has been burnt several times, we must be careful. Did President Tinubu too, who criticised the Jonathan administration for wanting to remove the fuel subsidy in 2012, not remove the very same subsidy the moment he was sworn in as President, even before he reached his office?

63% of the Vote!

By now, the Nigerian Opposition ought to be akin to that of the UK, a strong opposition that studies the policies of the incumbent administration, criticises

Onikepo braithwaite Braithwaite onikepo

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

The

Advocate “I watched a video about the Sardauna….no Northern leader appears to have lived up to him or his expectations.

In almost 65 years post-independence, we have had over 40 years of Northern leadership, so if the North has issues, or is now being considered by the Northern Politicians/elite to be disadvantaged, pray tell, whose fault is it? President Tinubu who assumed office two years ago? I think not… As Governor Uba Sani said recently, Northern leaders must“look at themselves in the mirror, particularly those at the helm of affairs in the last 20 years….and accept the blame that, we failed our region”…..

Sardauna aka Gamji was a shade for the Northerners, while the present-day Northern Politicians/Elite have left their people out in the open to be destroyed by the elements!” them constructively, develops alternative/ substitute policies and holds government accountable. Politics and governance should be about a battle of policies - whose policies are most beneficial to Nigeria and serves the welfare of Nigerians the best (see Section 14(2) (b) of the Constitution on the primary purpose of government), and not certainly not about things like “the North gave President Tinubu 63% of his votes, and they are being sidelined and deprived, so vote him out”.

While it is undoubtedly important that the North giving President Tinubu 63% of the vote, helped him secure the highest number of votes in accordance to Section 134(2)(a) of the Constitution, allocation of developmental projects, though must take voter loyalty into consideration, is also influenced by other factors including but not limited to, areas that may have infrastructural gaps, economic and other benefits that will be derived from locating the infrastructure in one particular area, as opposed to another area. Furthermore, without the spread required by Section 134(2)(b), that is, not less than 25% of the votes cast in each of at least two-thirds of all the States and FCT, that is 25 States, no President can be declared the winner of an election in Nigeria. Even where there is only one Presidential candidate in an election, Section 133(b) of the Constitution provides that he/she must have that 25% spread in 25 States in Yes votes. Out of the 19 Northern States and Abuja, President Tinubu got the highest number of votes in 11 out of 20. Even if he had secured the 25% spread in all the Northern States, without the spread in at least 5 other Southern States, he wouldn’t have been declared President. Without the requisite constitutional spread, the 63% votes alone, couldn’t have clinched the Presidency.

The moral of the story, is that we all need each other. See the case of Abubakar Atiku & Anor v INEC & Ors (2023) LPELR-61556(SC)

per John Inyang Okoro, JSC. The Sardauna of Sokoto, Sir Ahmadu Bello I watched a video about the Sardauna, his life, his beliefs, his works, and I’m sorry to say that, no Northern leader appears to have lived up to him or his expectations. In almost 65 years post-independence, we have had over 40 years of Northern leadership, so if the North has issues or is now being considered by the Northern Politicians/elite to be disadvantaged, pray tell, whose fault is it? President Tinubu who assumed office two years ago? I think not. As Governor Uba Sani said recently, Northern leaders must “look at themselves in the mirror, particularly those at the helm of affairs in the last 20 years….and accept the blame that, we failed our region”. The truth is that, all Northern Politicians have done, is to imbibe the culture of voting into their people, and that has strengthened their position when it comes to elections and national discourse, but, it hasn’t yielded any iota of the dividends of democracy for the voters themselves. Sardauna aka Gamji was a shade for the Northerners, while the present-day Northern Politicians/ Elite have left their people out in the open to be destroyed by the elements! They are upset, not because they care about their people, but because they feel that they haven't been given enough 'juicy' portfolios in this administration.

Since the inception of the Fourth Republic in 1999, indigenes of Nigerian States have elected their own Governors. These Governors have been fully in control of their States and Local Government Councils (LGCs), so much so that the Attorney-General of the Federation had to go to the Supreme Court to extricate the LGCs, a separate tier of government, from the hands of the State Governments (see AGF v AG Abia & 35 Ors (2024) LPELR-62576(SC) per Emmanuel Akomaye

Agim, JSC) and together, they are ones directly in charge of the functions that concern the welfare of their people - see Sections 5(2) & 7 of the Constitution, Concurrent Legislative List and Fourth Schedule; they also collect certain rates and taxes. Primary, adult education, healthcare and development of agriculture are the responsibility of the LGCs (see AGF v AG Abia & 35 Ors (Supra) per Moore Adumein, JSC on the importance of the functions of LGCs, and how the proper exercise of same can impact positively on all Nigerian citizens), while the State Government is responsible for Secondary and tertiary education, amongst other things. Like the Federal Government, State Governments are also able to generate and distribute electricity. How then do we lay the blame of the failure to carry out State and Local Government functions, on the Federal Government or President Tinubu?

The video showed some of Sardauna’s achievements, in his years as Premier of the Northern Region. It was during his time that the NRDC was re-christened the Northern Nigeria Development Corporation (NNDC) to promote commerce and development in the Northern Region. When Sardauna became Premier in 1954, there were only two secondary schools in the North - Katsina/Kaduna College, later known as Barewa College, and Government College, Keffi. In 7 years, Sardauna established secondary schools in all the 13 Provinces of the North; each Province also had a Technical School/ College; he established Teacher Training Colleges, and most importantly, the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Sardauna spent at least 40% of his budget on education, only second to Chief Awolowo’s 50% or so.

Today, the North lags behind in education, and has done so for many decades. For example, the 2017/2018 NCEE cut-off mark for Imo State was 66%, while that of Sokoto was 7% for females, and Zamfara, 14% for males and 12% for females. This was during President Buhari’s tenure, not President Tinubu’s. Governor Dauda Lawal is changing this narrative, because he is committed - in 2024, Zamfara was able to clinch the 2nd position of having the highest number of gifted students pass the same common entrance exam, with Anambra State taking the 1st position.

The North has been relying on “Quota System” for decades, which allows a certain percentage of ‘disadvantaged’ students to be accepted into the Unity schools, despite their poor grades. This was certainly not what Sardauna planned for the North, because he believed a country’s development depended on how educated the people are. Was it President Tinubu that allowed the Almajiri system to derail, so that instead of gaining a Quranic education, little boys between the ages of 4 and 12, Primary School age, now fill the streets begging on behalf of their Malams? This is certainly not what Sardauna laid the foundation for. Interestingly, the Military budgeted more for education - about 11%; and since 1999, this dropped to about 7%.

The other day, I watched an interview of Babachir Lawal, a Promoter of ADC, and I was appalled with his statement that the North was worse off because of President Tinubu. It is time to share some bitter truths. When President Buhari came into power, didn’t prices skyrocket, even though the fuel subsidy was still firmly in place? Did insurgency in the North and insecurity generally, not deepen and thrive during the Buhari administration? Why didn’t the Northern Politicians/elite complain when Nigeria became the poverty capital of the world in 2018, under President Buhari’s watch? Because President Buhari was a Northerner and some of them were part of that administration’s failures?

Is this not hypocrisy?

But, let’s put Mr Lawal’s statement into perspective.

The reason why many blame President Tinubu for the people’s suffering, is because he removed the fuel subsidy which had a serious inflationary effect.

Did the three main Presidential candidates in the 2023 election, not undertake to remove the fuel subsidy if elected into office? They did.

The gains from the subsidy removal have been passed on to the States, in terms of the Federal Government giving the Governors higher monthly allocations. It is therefore, time to hold Governors accountable. What are they doing with their increased allocations? Why hasn’t it trickled down to the people?

Why haven’t they used the gains, to alleviate the sufferings of their people? Provide them with cheaper transportation, invest in securing the environment, help Farmers with fertilisers and other farming aids, help Herders with land for ranching and the like?

Conclusion Nigerians must look beyond the politics of division, hatred and bitterness that Politicians are spewing to take advantage of the voters, and insist on politics of policies instead. Northern Politicians should stop buck passing, even lying outright, and do the honourable thing by accepting that they failed the North and undertake to do better.. While I’m not saying that the Tinubu administration is the best thing after sliced bread (because it isn’t), we must demand more from those who want to lead us - whether incumbent or aspiring - a coherent road map to get us out of trouble, and heading in the right direction. Pointing out problems and issues that even a 5 year old child is aware of, without proffering any solutions, is neither acceptable, nor is it enough ground for anybody to be elected. Nigerians deserve more.

The story continues…..

IV law report

TueSday, AUGUST 5, 2025 • T H I S D AY

Power of Court to Reframe Issues Formulated by Parties

Facts The Respondents filed a Fundamental Rights action in Suit No. FHC/J/M108/96 at the Jos Judicial Division of the Federal High Court, against the Inspector General of Police and the Appellant. They sought inter alia, a declaration that their continued arrest and detention by agents of the Inspector General of Police at the instance of the Appellant was unconstitutional and in breach of their fundamental rights.

In a ruling delivered on 15th January, 1997, the trial court granted the reliefs sought by the Respondents and awarded the Respondents exemplary damages against the Nigeria Police Force and the Appellant. Aggrieved, the Appellant appealed to the Court of Appeal. The Court of Appeal affirmed the ruling of the trial court and dismissed the Appellant’s appeal.

Thereafter,the Appellant filed a further appeal at the Supreme Court.

Issues for Determination The Supreme Court considered the following issues submitted by the 2nd Respondent, in its determination of the appeal: i. Whether the act of the lower court in reformulating the issues for determination and the circumstance of not calling parties to address it, is a breach of any established principle of law sufficient to amount to any miscarriage of justice. ii. Whether the lower court was right when it affirmed the position of the trial court to the effect that the Motion on Notice heard on 19th December, 1996 and the ruling delivered on 15th January, 1997 having regard to the provisions of Section 33(1) of the 1979 Constitution and Orders 2 and 4 of the Fundamental Rights Enforcement Rules were proper. iii. Whether the court below was right when it affirmed the trial Judge’s award of exemplary damages of N500,000.00 against the Appellant, and further awarded additional cost of N10,000.00 in favour of the Respondent.

Arguments On the 1st issue, Counsel for the Appellant submitted that the Court of Appeal was in grave error when it suo motu reformulated the Appellants’ issues submitted before it, and proceeded to determine the appeal on the basis of the reformulated issues without inviting the parties to address it on the reformulated issues. Counsel argued that the reformulation of issues changed the issue and substance of the arguments of the Appellant before the lower court, and led to a miscarriage of justice.

Arguing to the contrary, Counsel for the 1st Respondent submitted that the reformulation of the Appellant’s issues, did not in any way whittle down the complaint of the Appellant before the lower court. Counsel submitted that it is not in all cases when a court formulates an issue in an appeal that it must hear arguments from Counsel, so long as the arguments already submitted by parties are in tandem with the issue formulated by the court.

Counsel further argued that the purpose of reformulating an issue, most of the time, is to bring out the real issues in the appeal, and in this particular instance, the issue reformulated by the Court of Appeal essentially captured the issues distilled by the Appellant.

On their part, Counsel for the 2nd Respondent argued that the lower court acted rightly when it reformulated the issues distilled by the Appellant for the purpose of clarity, having observed that the issues distilled by the Appellant were inelegantly couched. Counsel argued that the requirement to invite parties to address the court applies only where the court raises a point suo motu, and not when it reformulates an issue. Counsel cited NWOBIKE v FRN (2022) 6 NWLR (PT. 1826) SC 239.

On the 2nd issue, Counsel for the Appellant argued that since the Respondents’ application for enforcement of their fundamental right was brought pursuant to Order 2 Rule 1 of the Fundamental Right Enforcement Procedure Rules 1981, the Appellant was entitled to eight clear days’ notice before the return date for hearing of the Respondents’ application. Counsel submitted that the time from 12th December, 1996 when the Appellant was served to 19th December, 1996, the suit was heard in not up to 8 days and thus, the entire proceeding and

Honourable Jamilu Yammama Tukur, JSC

In the Supreme Court of Nigeria Holden at Abuja On Friday, the 10th day of January, 2025 Before Their Lordships Emmanuel Akomaye Agim Haruna Simon Tsammani Stephen Jonah Adah Jamilu Yammama Tukur Mohammed Baba Idris Justices, Supreme Court SC. 193/2005 Between SKY POWER EXPRESS AIRWAYS LTD And

APPELLANT

1. AJUMA OLIMA 2. GODWIN UKPOJI

RESPONDENTS

Lead Judgement delivered by Honourable Jamilu Yammama Tukur, JSC

the ruling of the court was a nullity.

In response, Counsel for the 1st Respondent argued that the hearing of the Respondent’s case on 19th December, 1996, and the judgement subsequently delivered by the trial court was valid, in view of the evidence and facts on record which showed that the Appellant was duly served with the requisite processes and hearing notices.

Counsel for the 2nd Respondent submitted that the complaint of the Respondents bordered on wrongful detention to which Order 4 Rules 1(1) and 1(2) of the Fundamental Rights Enforcement Rules applies, and the rules only require 5 clear days between the date of service of the summons or motion and the hearing date. Counsel submitted that the record showed that the Respondent’s application came within the purview of Order 4, and that the Appellant was given more than 5 days’ notice

“….the court is also entitled to reframe the issue or issues formulated by the parties in order to give the issues precision and clarity, and in reframing the issue or issues different from issues formulated by the parties, the court is tasked to ensure that the reframed or formulated issues are derived from the grounds of appeal filed by the parties”

between the service of the application, therefore, the hearing and the subsequent ruling were valid.

Counsel for the 2nd Respondent argued further that the Appellant’s complaint of the breach of his right to fair hearing on the allegation that the trial court failed to hear his preliminary objection and consider the counter-affidavit he filed is of no moment, since nothing was disclosed in the record to show that the attention of the trial court was drawn to the alleged processes.

On the 3rd issue, Counsel for the Appellant argued that the claim for exemplary damages as couched by the Respondents before the trial court was an incompetent relief that ought not to have been granted. Counsel argued that the relief as couched was vague, failed to indicate properly the persons against whom it was claimed, and there was no evidence to ground the grant of the relief.

Responding, counsel for the 1st Respondent argued that the affidavit evidence in the records showed clearly that the award of exemplary damages and cost made by the trial court in favour of the Respondents and affirmed by the lower court was justified, having established that the fundamental rights of the Respondents were violated by the Appellant without any legal justification.

Court’s Judgement and Rationale In resolving issue 1, the Supreme Court held that the law is indeed settled that an Appellate court may, where it deems the issue or issues formulated for the determination of an appeal as incapable of serving the interest of justice or clumsily crafted, reframe or formulate the new issues for the determination of the appeal. The

Court also held that the court is also entitled to reframe the issue or issues formulated by the parties in order to give the issues precision and clarity, and in reframing the issue or issues different from issues formulated by the parties, the court is tasked to ensure that the reframed or formulated issues are derived from the grounds of appeal filed by the parties. The Court referred to its decision in STATE v SANI (2018) LPELR-43598 (SC).

The Court found that the issues formulated by the Court of Appeal captured the real issues raised by the Appellant in his brief of argument, and were neatly tied to the grounds of appeal for the purpose of clarity, and they were not fresh points raised suo motu, to necessitate the invitation of parties to address it on the same. The Apex Court distinguished that an issue is said to be raised suo motu when such an issue is not in the contemplation of the parties and is not before the court, and this is the circumstance that would require the court to invite parties to address it before making its decision thereon. The Court held that it was clear from the record of appeal that in reframing the issues for determination, the Court of Appeal did not raise any fresh point that would warrant inviting the parties to address it on the fresh point, but, merely reformulated the issues distilled by the Appellant which it viewed as clumsily couched, in order to give clarity on the real issues before it.

Deciding the 2nd issue, the Apex Court held that where an Applicant as in the instant case complains of unlawful arrest and detention in breach of his fundamental rights and applies for enforcement of those rights, the applicable rule under which the trial court will act in the issuance of the summons and the service of the hearing notice, is Order 4 Rule 1(2) of the Fundamental Rights Enforcement Rules 1981 extant at the material time. The Court held that by the said Rule 1(2), there must be at least five clear days between the service of the originating application for enforcement of the right of the Applicant who has complained of wrongful or unlawful detention, and the date of hearing of the application. The Supreme Court held that in the instant case, the record showed that the application was served on the Appellant on 12/12/96 and the matter was heard on 19/12/96, which was at least 6 clear days from 12/12/96; hence, the fixture of the case for hearing on 19/12/96 was competent, as it was done in line with the relevant rule and within the context of the complaint of unlawful arrest and detention lodged before the trial court.

On the Appellant’s complaint that the lower court erred in affirming the decision of the trial court which failed to take cognisance of his preliminary objection and counter-affidavit filed in opposition to the application, the Apex Court held that, there was nothing on record to show that the Appellant and the other Respondents at the trial court filed any processes up till the date the matter was heard.

The Court held further that the record also showed that the Appellant’s Counsel who was present in court on the date the ruling was delivered, failed to make any mention of or draw the attention of the court to the alleged processes which the Appellant claimed to have filed.

The Court held that the test of fair hearing under Section 36(1) of Chapter IV of the Constitution is whether the person complaining of the breach was denied access to court to ventilate his grievances, or whether the court had denied him a fair opportunity of presenting his case. The Court found that evidence abounded in the record that the Appellant was afforded ample opportunity to present his case, but failed to do so; he cannot and should not therefore, be heard to be complaining that his right to fair hearing was breached.

On the 3rd issue, the Court held that the affidavit evidence of the Respondents at the trial court was the basis upon which the Respondents’ claim for exemplary damages was granted, and by the evidence which was not contradicted, it was established that the Appellant and others were culpable in the arrest of the Respondents from their village in Benue and their detention at the Nigeria Police Zonal Headquarters, Onikan, Lagos. The Court held that the trial court rightly relied on the unchallenged affidavit evidence before it to award exemplary damages against the Appellant, and the Court of Appeal, in turn, rightly affirmed the decision of the trial court.

Appeal Dismissed.

Representation Ibrahin Bawa with Ifechelobi Chika and Ogunmola Adebayo for the Appellant.

Martin Atojoko for 1st Respondent.

Olawale Fapohunda for the 2nd Respondent.

Reported by Optimum Publishers Limited, Publishers of the Nigerian Monthly Law Reports (NMLR)(An affiliate of Babalakin & Co.)

V

TueSday, AUGUST 5, 2025 • T H I S D AY

NEWS

L-R: Father of the Artist, Etigwe Uwa, SAN; Elder Uma Eleazu; Lady Maiden Ibru; former Chairman of Nigerian National Merit Award, Prof Anya O. Anya; Artist, Grace Olanma Etigwe Uwa; Special Guest of Honour, former Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN and Nana Sonoiki

L-R: Princess Ellis (Convener), Dean, Faculty of Law, UNILAG, Prof Abiola Sanni, SAN; Virtuous Irianele; Oreoluwa Balogun and Onaopepo Babarinsa

Etigwe Uwa Exhibition: Fashola, SAN Urges Legal Reforms to Protect Artists

Stories by Steve Aya

The Federal Palace Hotel Lagos on Sunday hosted a significant Art Exhibition by Grace Olanma Etigwe Uwa, daughter of distinguished legal luminary Etigwe Uwa, SAN. The event attended by former Lagos Governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, attracted dignitaries, senior lawyers, art enthusiasts, and media representatives.

Titled ‘Lost in a World of Light’, Grace’s debut solo show featured photography, film, text, and sound works spanning London, Edinburgh, and Makoko.

The immersive collection invites viewers to reflect on perception, faith, and the complexity of light both literal and metaphorical.

In his Keynote Address, Babatunde Fashola, SAN praised the creative economy’s growth and its rising global reach. He

described the exhibition as a landmark moment, illustrating how creativity and talent are now economic forces in Nigeria. He highlighted the importance of supporting emerging creatives with robust systems, legal, infrastructural, and economic, that arguably did not exist when he began his career. “Today, creative arts have reshaped the global economy. They are now so successful; they hire Lawyers, Engineers, and Accountants”, he noted While speaking to the press, Mr Fashola took the opportunity to call for legal reforms aimed at protecting artistic talent. He pointed to the need for copyright laws, contractual clarity, and dispute resolution frameworks specific to the creative sector, areas he has previously discussed at legal forums and conferences.

The Exhibition was a deeply

personal moment for Grace, coinciding with her 25th birthday and a professional milestone. It reflected her commitment to telling stories rooted in faith and resilience: moments of beauty found

inherently private spaces and that any form of monitoring, especially without clear notice, is both unconstitutional and unlawful.

The suit also cites the Nigerian Data Protection Act, which mandates that data controllers process personal information in a lawful, fair, and transparent

artist returning home with international experience, and noted how her themes challenge assumptions about hardship and joy.

Grace’s Exhibition will run at the Federal Palace Hotel

through till the weekend.

It showcases a compelling example of how creative talent and the rule of law must go hand in hand, to support the burgeoning Nigerian creative economy.

UniLag Law Students Host Inaugural Media and Law Summit In a groundbreaking initiative bridging the worlds of law, media, and content creation, the inaugural Media and Law Summit hosted by students of the Law Faculty, University of Lagos took place on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, drawing students from across disciplines with a shared passion for storytelling, entertainment, and justice.

Conceived and curated by Princess Ellis, the current Public Relations Officer

Privacy Invasion: Mega Chicken Faces Lawsuit Over Alleged Spy Cameras in Toilets A Lagos-based Lawyer and Public Commentator, Mr Adebayo Sanni, has filed a lawsuit against fast-food giant Mega Chicken, alleging the unlawful installation of surveillance cameras in the restrooms of its Agidingbi branch.

The suit, filed at the High Court of Lagos State (Suit No: ID/20068MFHR/2025), claims the cameras were installed without notice or consent, an act Mr Sanni argues violates his right to privacy under Section 37 of the 1999 Constitution and the Nigerian Data Protection Act 2023.

Represented by Olumide Babalola LP, Mr Sanni states in his affidavit that he discovered the surveillance devices during a visit, and found no signs informing customers of their presence. He described the act as a serious invasion of personal dignity, and a breach of trust.

The lawsuit seeks declaratory, injunctive, and compensatory reliefs. Mr Sanni emphasises that restrooms are

amid struggle, especially in Lagos’s Makoko community.

Etigwe Uwa, SAN, the proud father, expressed his admiration for his daughter’s work. He emphasised the significance of a Nigerian

manner, especially in sensitive environments like restrooms.

Legal experts believe the outcome could set a precedent, for how surveillance technologies are deployed in Nigeria’s hospitality and retail spaces.

As of the time of filing this report, the case had not yet been assigned to a Judge.

(PRO) of the Law Students’ Society and a seasoned content creator, the Summit marked a bold step toward expanding the horizons of law students beyond the courtroom. Ellis, known for her dynamic presence both in legal circles and the digital space, designed the event to offer practical insights into law, real-world inspiration, and actionable guidance for aspiring media professionals in the academic sphere.

With the theme “Media & Law: Mark. Aim. Inspire.

Now!”, the Summit invited participants to reimagine what’s possible when legal training meets creative expression. The message was clear: students from the Incomparable Faculty of Law and beyond, should Mark the reality that success in media and entertainment is not only possible, but within reach.

They were encouraged to Aim deliberately through strategic decisions and

focused career steps, and ultimately Inspire their generation by acting Now. The Summit featured influential speakers from the legal, media, and entertainment industries, such as the Dean of Unilag’s Faculty of Law, Prof Abiola Sanni, SAN; Dr Ifeoma Oluwasemilore; Nollywood legend Ngozi Nwosu; Dr Harmony Olanipekun; Bunmi Ajakaiye; Tobe Ugeh aka Tobe Szn; Virtuous Irianele aka Osasbaby; Oluwaseyi Ademeso aka Meshkiey; Beauty Tukura, Deeola and Onaopepo among others offering mentorship, practical advice, and personal stories of navigating non-traditional career paths.

From intellectual property and digital rights to branding, social influence, and media ethics, sessions explored the intricate ways in which law intersects with creativity in today’s digital economy.

Princess Ellis, in her speech

expressed her vision for the Summit as more than a one-off event. “This is about building a bridge, between what we study and what we love”, she said. “The media and entertainment industries need sharp legal minds, and the law needs storytellers who can bring clarity, compassion, and creativity to its practice.”

For many attendees, the Media and Law Summit was not just informative, it was transformational. It served as a call to action for students who have long balanced academic rigour with creative pursuits, proving that they don’t have to choose one over the other.

As the first edition of what organisers hope will become an annual event, the Summit sets a precedent: that ambition need not be confined, and that the intersection of law and media holds boundless opportunities for those ready to aim high and act now.

Court Denies Fresh Bail for Ajudua Amid Supreme Court Motion Justice Mojisola Dada of the Special Offences Court in Ikeja, on Wednesday, rejected a new bail application filed

by Fred Ajudua, who is on trial for allegedly defrauding a Palestinian businessman of $1,043,000. The ruling was delivered despite Ajudua’s legal team citing serious health concerns and briefing the court about ongoing Supreme Court proceedings.

Ajudua’s lead Counsel, Mr Olalekan Ojo, SAN, said the defence had submitted a 12 paragraph affidavit and a supporting address requesting bail, based on the Defendant’s

chronic liver disease and critical medical condition. He stressed that medical staff from LUTH accompanied Ajudua to court, because the hospital’s own policy typically prevents releasing patients for court attendance.

The prosecution, led by Mr Seidu Atteh, opposed the application strongly, arguing that copies of relevant medical correspondence from LUTH or correctional authorities had not been served on his team in advance. He maintained that the day’s proceedings, including witness testimonies, should continue uninterrupted.

Justice Dada stated that the court was bound by a pending motion for review lodged at the Supreme Court, touching on key aspects of the case.

Consequently, she said she was constrained from adjudicating the bail application, until the Apex Court provided direction.

During the trial, EFCC witness PW3, Afanda Bashir Emmanuel, testified that the case was referred to the Commission by the Nigeria Police in 2005.

He explained how documents including alleged forged letters and payment receipts from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and NNPC formed part of the

investigation, with forensic analysis conducted in Abuja in 2013.

Counsel, Ojo, SAN, objected to several documents tendered by the prosecution, arguing that some were uncertified photocopies, and that PW3 lacked the authority or authorship to introduce the forensic report and related CBN documents. Justice Dada admitted two letters (EFCC to NNPC and NNPC’s response) as exhibits, but rejected the forensic and CBN documents as inadmissible.

The court adjourned the matter for further proceedings

and witness testimonies to October 10, October 31, and November 20, 2025. Meanwhile, the fresh bail application was formally refused, until the Supreme Court rules on the pending motion.

Fred Ajudua has been on trial since his arraignment before Justice Dada on June 4, 2018, in a matter dating back to 2005.

After initial bail refusal, he was granted bail by the Court of Appeal in September 2018, but, the Supreme Court later revoked that order, reinstating his remand and directing that Justice Dada should resume proceedings.

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Ondo State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Kayode Ajulo, OON, SAN

‘Àmòtèkun’s Success is the Most Potent Reason for State Police’

Justice Administration, is an all encompassing and totally engaging endeavour. For a State like Ondo, it is blessed with a young, ebullient and progressive thinking Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Kayode Ajulo, OON, SAN. He narrated to Onikepo Braithwaite and Jude Igbanoi last weekend, the bold steps he has taken and the strides he has achieved so far, with the support of Governor Aiyedatiwa, since his assumption of office, the success of community policing by the Àmòtèkun Corps in his State, and his plans to ensure that Ondo State gets new and revised laws, and becomes the pace setter for administration of justice in Nigeria

Y

ou appeared to hit the ground running when you assumed office as Ondo State AttorneyGeneral and Commissioner for Justice. What is your strategic plan, and to what extent have you been able to actualise the plan and agenda?

As you rightly said, we couldn’t but hit the ground running, and that’s because we already had a clearly defined plan. It’s a case of preparation meeting opportunity.

We are operating on an 8-point agenda, which, interestingly, we have had as a blueprint on governance since 2011. Being

a consultant, policy analyst, and advocate of good governance, equality, and the rule of law, this is what we have always been known for. We have always believed that, the agenda holds the potential to bring meaningful change. We have kept updating it over the years to reflect prevailing realities, waiting for the right platform to execute it. And, what better way than to have the opportunity to implement it for the people of Ondo State?

Providence has now placed us

“…. the legal advice from the Ministry of Justice, which was once cited as a reason for delays in prosecution, is now being delivered promptly.…. I have directed all Lawyers and staff in the Ministry, that no file should be detained for more than 24 hours, noting that any file delayed beyond that without processing suggests an attempt to solicit for gratifications…..”

under a Governor who is innovationdriven, performance-oriented, and not only fully supportive of meaningful initiatives, but has given a free hand to deploy meaningful, sustainable, and developmental ideas. Thankfully, our 8-point agenda came out immediately I took the oaths of office, and it aligns perfectly with the Governor’s OUR EASE agenda. That alignment made it easy, for us to implement the plan immediately.

The agenda is encapsulated in an acronym, which stands for: Access to Justice; Justice Sector Reform; Uniform Law Enforcement; Law Officers and Lawyers’ Welfare Review; Obedience to Court Orders and the Law; Knowledge of Existing Laws; Adherence to Executive Orders and Rule of Law; Youths, Children, Juveniles, Women, and Persons with Disabilities Laws.

I don't need to go into the details of this, as it is *res ipsa loquitur*.

This has been our compass that we run with, and has continued to guide every policy direction, strategic initiative, and reform we have undertaken in the Ministry of Justice. It provides a

clear framework for action, ensuring that we remain focused on delivering justice that is accessible, fair, and aligned with the needs of the people. Every decision we make, whether in legislative reform, judicial welfare, prosecution, or access to justice, is rooted in this agenda. It is not just a document; it is a living blueprint that defines our priorities, measures our progress, and reminds us daily, of the trust the people have placed in us.

How people-centric are you, in terms of access to justice for the people of Ondo State, legal aid/cheaper and alternative dispute resolution? What of prosecutorial reforms in the administration of criminal justice system, to ensure that the constitutional rights attached to same are upheld, and people are able to get fairly speedy trials?

Let me begin by stating that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration, without a doubt, is deeply people-centric. You only need to sit with the Governor to hear his story; you wouldn't but quickly notice a man who cares about the people, and wants the best for everyone. Every policy and programme is designed to

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‘Àmòtèkun’s Success is the Most Potent Reason for State Police’ benefit the people.

When it comes to justice delivery, the law in Ondo State is no respecter of persons.

We act swiftly and decisively. In some cases, the victims haven’t even filed reports before we intervene. Sometimes, we act based on credible intelligence, always ensuring we follow due process.

Regarding prosecutorial reform, let me give a practical example. We identified the need to update some of our laws, like the High Court Law and the Local Government Law. Take, for instance, the anti-cultism and anti-kidnapping laws, which were no longer adequate for current realities. So, we proposed an Executive Bill to repeal and replace the existing ones, with a focus on stricter provisions and stiffer penalties to serve as deterrents.

The Bill, which was approved by the State Executive Council and forwarded to the House of Assembly, includes provisions such as the death penalty in kidnapping cases where the victim dies. It also addresses wider security issues, and introduces penalties for those aiding or abetting cultism. For example, while the law previously recognised just over 200 cult groups, the number of active groups has since increased. The old law didn’t even consider the role of accomplices, like friends and family members. These gaps are now being addressed.

The penalty for cultism has been raised from six years to 21 years in some cases, and the death penalty is proposed in cases resulting in death. Properties used in committing such crimes will be demolished, of course, following due process.

In terms of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), we have intensified our advocacy and promotion of mechanisms, such as mediation and arbitration. Being a Fellow of the esteemed Chartered Institute of Arbitrators in the United Kingdom, brings with it the understanding that litigation is not always the most effective method for resolving conflicts, particularly in a rapidly evolving society like Ondo State. ADR helps to decongest the courts and offers swift, amicable, and cost-effective outcomes.

What steps has your Ministry taken towards prison decongestion?

Since Governor Aiyedatiwa assumed office, the Prerogative of Mercy has been powerfully and compassionately exercised on three separate occasions, not just to extend mercy, but also to alleviate the overcrowding in our correctional facilities.

This constitutional authority allows the Governor to pardon or commute the sentences of deserving inmates, who have been proven to have positively changed in behaviour. As Attorney-General, I have the sacred responsibility of chairing the Committee that carefully reviews applications, reports, and behavioural assessments, guiding us as we make heartfelt recommendations for clemency for inmates.

This initiative, apart from being the constitutional prerogative of His Excellency, is part of a concerted effort to demonstrate an act of forgiveness, as well as to alleviate prison overcrowding, particularly for those who have been incarcerated for extended periods and have shown genuine remorse, warranting clemency.

For instance, in October 2024, coinciding with Nigeria’s 64th Independence anniversary, Governor Aiyedatiwa granted

Ondo State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Kayode Ajulo, OON, SAN

amnesty to 117 convicts, resulting in the outright release of 19 individuals and the commutation of several death sentences to life imprisonment.

Subsequently, in January 2025, as part of the celebrations for his 60th birthday, the Governor pardoned 40 inmates, releasing 8 immediately, commuting death sentences, and reducing additional long-term sentences.

On February 24, 2025, in honour of his second-term inauguration, another 43 convicts received clemency, with 8 released immediately, 15 death-row inmates having their sentences commuted to life terms, and 20 life-sentenced inmates experiencing reductions in their terms.

Furthermore, the Honourable Chief Judge of the State, my Lord Justice Olusegun Odusola, alongside myself, have taken significant action by releasing numerous inmates during a week-long initiative at the Ondo and Okitipupa Custodial Centres and the Owo Correctional Centre. This was in response to the troubling issue of prolonged detention, due to lack of diligent prosecution. In July 2024, during another routine visit, he granted pardons to several awaiting-trial inmates.

Remarkably, just last week, we conducted another such exercise. In fact, it is noteworthy that this marks the first time in our State’s history that an Attorney-General has visited correctional centres for such an initiative, resulting in the freedom of deserving inmates.

Under the provisions of Administration of Criminal Justice Law, Judges have been empowered to conduct onthe-spot hearings within correctional facilities, to expedite such cases. Inmates who met the criteria for release, were

“….the Government has embarked on an ambitious judicial complex project, known as the Rotimi Akeredolu Judicial Complex, in honour of our late Governor and legal luminary….This modern complex… is designed to be a comprehensive judicial hub. It will feature more than 14 fully equipped courtrooms, ceremonial halls, a digital resource centre, spacious administrative offices, and ample public amenities”

granted immediate freedom.

Additionally, the legal advice from the Ministry of Justice, which was once cited as a reason for delays in prosecution, is now being delivered promptly. We are deeply committed to addressing files, within a few hours.

I have directed all Lawyers and staff in the Ministry, that no file should be detained for more than 24 hours, noting that any file delayed beyond that without processing suggests an attempt to solicit for gratifications, and I can boldly say they do not engage in such conduct. You must agree that, we have made remarkable strides in this area.

What have been the major challenges in administering your Ministry? How digitised/digitalised are you? Have you put any E-filing etc initiatives in place?

Before speaking about challenges, let me highlight our progress in digitising the justice system. Under Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership, we have achieved remarkable milestones in transforming the justice sector through a range of targeted reforms, strategic projects, and forward-thinking policies.

And, one of them is digitalisation.

We launched, arguably, one of Nigeria’s most integrated digital legal systems. We launched an unprecedented digital legal resource platform and e-library, accessible to Judges, Lawyers, and Researchers, with instant access to statutes, case law, and global legal literature.

Complementing this, is a swift case response and tracking mechanism that enhances the speed of case resolution, streamlines documentation processes, and improves the monitoring of judicial activities.

I want to emphasise this: while we acknowledge that these technological advancements must be supported by human and institutional capacity, our amendment of the High Court Statute to allow for the appointment of eleven new Judges represents a monumental step forward. This is the most significant expansion in our State's history since the creation of Ondo State in 1976, and it will greatly enhance efficiency and improve access to justice for all.

Now to your first question, our primary challenge does not stem

from a lack of human resources; I boldly assert that our Ministry of Justice is filled with some of the brightest, most efficient, and competent Lawyers and staff. This is Ondo State, after all! However, we do face obstacles in accessing funds, and in how the public interprets and perceives the law. Many view the law as a burden or an obstacle, rather than as a vital tool for order, justice, and societal advancement. There is often resistance to lawful processes, especially when they seem inconvenient or threaten personal interests. I firmly believe that the law must take its course, even if heaven must fall. Yet, I am confident that heaven won’t fall, as we have the unwavering support of the people and the authority of the State as pillars to uphold justice and strongly hold it from falling on us.

It is crucial to recognise that the law is not intended to punish, but to protect, creating a structured, fair, and predictable environment where everyone’s rights are honoured.

The law is essential for the sanctity and stability of any society. Without it, chaos would reign, and development would be impossible. For a State like Ondo that is committed to sustainable development, we are sensitising our people on the importance of respecting and upholding the law. Education, public enlightenment, and community engagement are key to changing this narrative, and it is the approach we have employed. Only when the people see the law as a shared value and a collective responsibility, can we truly achieve lasting peace, justice, and progress.

A video of a High Court in Ondo with a badly leaking roof went viral, and many saw it as a reflection of the sorry state of the courtrooms across Ondo State. What exactly is the state of Ondo State High Courtrooms and the welfare of its Judges?

Unfortunately, sensationalism often overshadows facts, in our political space.

I saw the clip as well, and like many, I was initially alarmed. As a result, I promptly embarked on an inspection and assessment tour across all courts in Ondo State to identify the location, and verify whether such an incident had occurred within our jurisdiction.

However, what was shown in that short clip appears to be an isolated, cont'd on page VIII

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‘Àmòtèkun’s Success is the Most Potent Reason for State Police’ cont'd from page VII

weather-related incident during the rainy season, something that can happen anywhere, whether on government or private property. To be sincere and practical, I have seen even government houses and private residences with leaking roofs. During the dry season, you may not notice such issues. Often, it’s during the first heavy rain of the year, that weather-affected roofs reveal their vulnerability.

That said, it was rather surprising, and frankly unfortunate, to see individuals arrive fully geared for photo-ops, seemingly focused more on optics and sensationalism than genuine concern. Such actions are unfair to whichever location they are targeting, particularly when the facts are not yet clear.

Infrastructure anywhere in the world, can be temporarily compromised by natural elements. The responsible and logical thing to do in such situations is to report to the appropriate authorities for swift intervention, not rush to social media to mislead the public.

Nonetheless, I have personally conducted an on-the-ground assessment of all court and justice-sector facilities in the State, not because we confirmed any incident like that in Ondo, but to ensure our infrastructure is maintained at optimal standards and to identify areas in need of upgrades or renovation.

And, let me add this: because the Government of Ondo State, under the leadership of Governor Aiyedatiwa believes that the justice sector deserves nothing short of excellence, the Government has embarked on an ambitious judicial complex project, known as the Rotimi Akeredolu Judicial Complex, in honour of our late Governor and legal luminary, who was himself a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and former President of one of the largest Bars in the World, the Nigerian Bar Association, and a tireless advocate for justice and the rule of law.

This modern complex, being constructed on over 13 hectares of land, is designed to be a comprehensive judicial hub. It will feature more than 14 fully equipped courtrooms, ceremonial halls, a digital resource centre, spacious administrative offices, and ample public amenities. It is a bold testament to this administration’s commitment, to enhancing justice delivery and institutional efficiency.

Beyond improving infrastructure, this project will significantly boost judicial capacity, improve access to justice for all, and place Ondo State firmly on the map as a legal hub in Nigeria. It will also stimulate the local economy through job creation, legal tourism, and long-term revenue generation. This is a visionary investment, in the future of justice in Ondo State Concerning the welfare of the Judges, it is worth knowing that under the administration of Governor Aiyedatiwa, the welfare of judiciary workers has not only been prioritised, but practically demonstrated through deliberate investments and policy choices that have elevated Ondo’s Judiciary above most others in the country.

What is the fate of the inferior courts of record such as the Magistrate and Customary Courts, if the High Court can be in such a deplorable condition? What has the Ondo State Government done to improve the welfare of the judicial officers of these courts, like the Magistrates, which is known to be rather poor

Ondo State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Kayode Ajulo, OON, SAN

across the country?

Let’s put things in perspective. The court in the video clip was mischaracterised and I think it's uncharitable to use that unverified clip - more like a content created one - of less than a minute to represent the entire state of a building.

What was shown was a minor, weather-induced issue, during an isolated rainstorm. This can happen anywhere; in fact, it is happening presently in many countries we love to refer to. That less than a minute clip doesn’t represent the true condition of our courts here, and certainly not the High Court in general.

Importantly, our renovation plan covers all tiers of courts, including Magistrate and Customary Courts.

In fact, this situation triggered a broader review. We have summoned government contractors, to account for substandard work. Moving forward, stricter oversight, legal backing, and enforceable performance guarantees will be required from all contractors.

What is the level of technology deployed in the Ondo State Court system presently?

As I earlier explained, we have deployed an advanced digital framework within our court system, including e-resources, tracking, and documentation systems. The e-filing in our courts' registry has commenced. I appreciate Mr Governor for the support and for providing the needed funds to execute this, and the Honourable Chief Judge Odusola for doing the needful.

Governor Aiyedatiwa recently embarked on a very ambitious project, the construction of the Rotimi Akeredolu Judicial Complex at N39billion. Kindly, shed some light on this project, how far it has gone and its significance at this point.

“Àmòtèkun has performed exceptionally well in Ondo State, and indeed, across all South-West States. The Corps has filled a critical gap in community-level security, especially in areas where the national Police structure cannot adequately cover”

Part of the place I visited during the inspection and assessment tour I told you about earlier was the site itself, and I would strongly advice you to take a tour of the place. One day, the people of Ondo State will look upon that edifice and proudly celebrate the foresight and vision of Governor Aiyedatiwa. What is taking shape there, is nothing short of a modern judicial hub as I have said earlier, rising on a vast expanse of 13 hectares of land. Upon completion, it will feature over 14 well-equipped courtrooms, grand ceremonial halls, a cutting-edge digital resource centre, administrative offices, and ample public amenities. This landmark project will not only significantly enhance judicial capacity and improve public access to justice, but also elevate Ondo’s stature on the national stage. Economically, it will stimulate local employment, boost legal tourism, and stand as a sustainable, long-term revenue-generating asset for the State.

How up-to-date are the laws of Ondo State? Have you undertaken any law reform?

One of the first key steps we took upon assuming office, was the constitution of a Committee to review the laws of Ondo State, with the aim of updating them where necessary, to align with the realities and demands of the 21st century. Don’t also forget that we have a dedicated Law Commission under my supervision, a testament to the premium we place on ensuring our legal framework is responsive and effective. In fact, there are two distinct teams actively engaged in this process, one within the Ministry and the other within the Law Commission, both of which I directly supervise.

I must say, I was genuinely shocked to discover upon my arrival that some of our laws, dating back to the creation of the State, had never been reviewed. This is a State from which Ekiti was carved out! As a scholar, I hold the firm view that every law should be reviewed at least once every three years. It is unacceptable, in my opinion, for any legal system to go unchecked for that long, without identifying areas needing amendment.

In response, I took decisive action.

One of the earliest and most impactful outcomes of this effort, was the appointment of additional Judges to strengthen our judicial system. I must sincerely appreciate Mr Governor for his swift and unwavering support, in approving these initiatives as soon as they were brought to his attention.

This review is already yielding results, as seen in some of the initiatives I have previously mentioned.

All of the Government’s legal and policy actions are underpinned by the digitisation of legal archives and the ongoing training of legal officers, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge and tools to operate in line with global best practices.

We have digitised our legal archives, and ensured continuous training for legal officers to align with global standards. Also, offender profiling and criminal records management are now being handled with modern data and governance tools, to ensure credible enforcement and justice delivery.

Two years after the death of the immediate past Governor of Ondo State, Arakurin Rotimi Akeredolu, SAN, a Coroner’s inquest is being conducted into his death. What informed this move? And, why so long after his death?

Let me ask you this simple question, has the Government at any time officially announced any commencement of a Coroner’s inquest into the late Governor Akeredolu’s death? The answer is capital, NO. What my office did was to acknowledge receipt of several petitions regarding his death. We have a duty under the law to process petitions, assess their merit, and determine the next steps. Transparency and accountability, are constitutional requirements. Failing to respond to such petitions or denying them outright could result in legal action, including a Writ of Mandamus. Remember, I took an oath of office to do what is right under any circumstances. Unfortunately, many rushed to conclusions without understanding the process.

I want to be unequivocally clear: I hold the late Governor Akeredolu in the highest regard. Our connection runs deep, rooted in our shared membership in the Anglican cont'd on page IX

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‘Àmòtèkun’s Success is the Most Potent Reason for State Police’ cont'd from page VIII

Communion Church of Nigeria. He often reminded me of our connecting roles, him as a Diocesan Chancellor and me as a Diocesan Registrar of two distinct dioceses of the same Church. We have also been intertwined for generations, through our parents' years of dedicated service to this great institution of faith in Ibadan. I was fortunate to be one of his oldest mentees, and he served as a pivotal role model during my formative years. When he called me stubborn, I would smile and remind him that I was simply trying to emulate him, recognising that Aketi had his own steadfastness, which only deepened my admiration for him. Aketi was not just a mentor; he was our benefactor. Mr Governor holds his predecessor in profound respect, and often becomes emotional when reminiscing about him. Thus, the idea that I would ever show disrespect to his memory is not only false, but profoundly insensitive.

What is the security situation in your State? Kindly, share the reasons for whatever insecurity your State may be experiencing. Kidnapping is said to be on the rise again in Ondo State, and Governor Aiyedatiwa has approved the death penalty for the offence. To what extent has this ameliorated the crime in your State? How are you handling the prosecutions so far?

I believe this is a belated question, as you would agree with me that the tension in the State has significantly reduced. Don’t forget that the State has successfully hosted several national and international events and conferences, such as the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) NEC meeting, the Development Partners’ Roundtable, and the recent Ondo State Education Summit. Investors are coming in, and all of these developments have been well-reported in the news. It all points to one thing: the State is safe and open for business.

Judging from the accolades we have been receiving from far and near, and our ability to host high-level, high-stakes events both from within and outside the country, the credit goes to the responsive and proactive leadership of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa. His administration has prioritised peace, security, and stability, creating an enabling environment for growth, governance, and investment.

I would like to use this opportunity to commend all the security outfits in the State, for the excellent job they are doing. I also sincerely appreciate the people of Ondo State for their commitment to building a safer society, by speaking up and reporting crimes when they occur.

Let me also reiterate, for clarity’s sake, our position on the death penalty to avoid any misconceptions. As I mentioned earlier in this interview, this is a proposed executive Bill that was deliberated upon at the State Executive Council meeting, and subsequently approved to be transmitted to the House of Assembly for legislative consideration. I believe that every lover of peace and justice, will support such a bold and necessary step.

We are ensuring diligent prosecution of offenders, and strengthening preventive mechanisms. Security is a top priority, and results are evident.

How well has Àmòtèkun done in Ondo State? Do you agree that it’s

Ondo State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Kayode Ajulo, OON, SAN

time to establish State Police? Do you believe that it will reduce the level of insecurity in the country?

Absolutely, Àmòtèkun has performed exceptionally well in Ondo State, and indeed, across all South-West States.

The Corps has filled a critical gap in community-level security, especially in areas where the national Police structure cannot adequately cover.

The demand for State Police is no longer just necessary, it is long overdue. In fact, in our advocacy for this constitutional reform, Àmòtèkun remains our most potent reference point. Its achievements speak for themselves, and no one can deny the remarkable results recorded.

Nigeria’s growing population and evolving crime patterns, require a decentralised policing model. Our current ratio of one Police Officer to 600–650 citizens is already far below the UN’s recommended ratio of 1:450, which, in my view, is still inadequate for a country as complex as ours. Àmòtèkun is a clear example that, with the right support, State-controlled security structures can work, and work effectively.

Although I am yet to personally confirm it, there are reports filtering in that the United Nations may have recognised Àmòtèkun as a model for effective grassroots policing. If this hasn’t been officially confirmed yet, I believe it certainly deserves such recognition.

The demolition of the Cenotaph erected by the Akeredolu administration in memory of the massacred Catholic faithfuls at Owo is eliciting very negative comments, with buck passing between the Oba and Governor

“….we need to give credit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu…. the removal of fuel subsidy, a long-avoided economic correction that has freed up resources for States….. The unification of foreign exchange rates, which has brought long-needed clarity and transparency to Nigeria’s forex market. The ongoing tax reforms…..The Local Government autonomy drive….support for judicial financial autonomy, which further strengthens the independence of the Judiciary”

Aiyedatiwa. Kindly, shed some light on this incident and the position of the Ondo State Government Official information on this matter, has already been made public. I believe that suffices. Anything more may amount to unnecessary repetition, or further politicisation of the matter.

What are your views on restructuring Nigeria and constitutional reform? Does Nigeria require a referendum at this point in time?

Should Nigeria revert to the Parliamentary system? Or do you think this Presidential system is working? Is this Unitary system though called Federalism, working?

Restructuring Nigeria is inevitable, if we must reach our full potential. The present quasi-unitary system, operating under the guise of Federalism, has created bottlenecks, stifled growth, and weakened institutions.

Before I became the AttorneyGeneral and Commissioner for Justice of Ondo State, I had already committed my personal resources and joined well-meaning groups like Afenifere to advocate for restructuring. Through an NGO I chair, Egalitarian Mission for Africa, I have consistently pushed for a more balanced and equitable governance structure.

Truth must be told, and we need to give credit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In a subtle, yet strategic manner, what I would call a silent revolution, he has been gradually restructuring the country, not just in rhetoric but through actionable reforms.

Take, for instance, the removal of fuel subsidy, a long-avoided economic correction that has freed up resources for States and challenged our consumption-based dependency.

The unification of foreign exchange rates, which has brought long-needed clarity and transparency to Nigeria’s forex market. The ongoing tax reforms under the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, aimed at harmonising taxes, eliminating duplication, and improving ease of compliance. The Local Government autonomy drive, including his firm position that States must allow for the democratic running of local government councils. His administration’s support for judicial financial

autonomy, which further strengthens the independence of the Judiciary.

Legal moves on inland waterways and resource control, particularly around onshore and offshore resource jurisdiction, challenging long-standing central monopolies. Support for the student loan initiative, expanding access to tertiary education, and the proposed education bank to make funding accessible to all.

The President's bold steps towards the creation of a Consumer Credit Scheme, a major building block for middle-class economic empowerment.

And, even in the security space, reforms are underway that have emboldened regional security frameworks like Àmòtèkun, further strengthening arguments for State policing.

These are quiet, but firm steps towards a more decentralised, fair, and responsive Federation. I deeply appreciate them, because they reflect a win-win model of restructuring, one that benefits all segments of Nigeria without the usual noise or political theatre.

Whether we revert to the parliamentary system or reform the presidential model, what matters most is achieving true Federalism, where States control their resources, manage their security, and legislate independently while remaining accountable.

Now, regarding the much-discussed issue of a referendum, may I ask a sincere question: Where is the provision for a referendum in our current Constitution? I have practiced law for over two decades, studied our Constitution thoroughly, used it as the basis of my doctoral thesis, and conducted comparative analyses with several constitutions across the world. I have not come across any such provision, in our current legal framework. So, where exactly is this referendum people constantly refer to? I am open to being educated.

Perhaps, it may have been mentioned in previous constitutional drafts, but the current Constitution is silent on it.

That said, a referendum may not be entirely off the table, but the necessary constitutional and institutional groundwork must be laid for it to be credible and effective. What Nigeria truly needs, is the political will to reform. Whatever system we adopt, it must be efficient, inclusive, and rooted in justice.

Thank you Honourable AttorneyGeneral.

X

TueSday, AUGUST 5, 2025 • T H I S D AY

My Brief by SKB stephen kola-balogun

stephenkolabalogun@yahoo.com

Preserving the Legal Profession for Tomorrow

R

Introduction ecently, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Ikeja Branch marked its Annual Law Week, themed “Preserving the Legal Profession for Tomorrow”. Several eminent Lawyers and Judges were in attendance, some of them offering their own perspective as Keynote Speakers, on how best to achieve this call to action.

The Chairman of the Law Week Committee, Chukwudi Enebeli, SAN poignantly remarked in his programme address that: “Many Lawyers no longer recognise their responsibility, to the Nation and the Profession.

Some Lawyers feel that they owe a greater duty to their clients, over their duty to the Bar. We see the erosion of ethical standards. We witness a diminishing sense of mentorship. We observe a generation of Lawyers increasingly disconnected from the tradition of service, scholarship and social responsibility that once defined our calling. We are watching the slow dilution of legal excellence in the face of commercial pressures, and the growing perception of the legal practitioner not as an advocate for justice, but as a mere technician for hire. The ordinary man out there has almost lost faith in our profession, to the extent of preferring to take the law into their hands, instead of engaging the services of a Lawyer……. To preserve the profession for tomorrow, as members of this noble profession, we must recommit to a culture of self-regulation”.

How and where do we begin to address this challenge? How can we even go about achieving these objectives, bearing in mind that self-regulation itself has very broad parameters. As usual, the 1999 Constitution is the starting point.

The Need for an Administration of Justice Act Since we obtained independence in 1960, all our Constitutions, 1960, 1963, 1979, I989 and 1999 have contained unduly elaborate Judicature provisions.

The down side to this is that we can hardly selfregulate. The structure of our courts, the right to appeal and a lot more are all embedded in the Judicature provisions contained in the Constitution.

If the Chief Justice of Nigeria, the President of the Court of Appeal and other appellate Judges and Chief Judges feel the need to create a new Court as with the National Industrial Court (a few years back) or perhaps, the need to curtail the right to appeal as of right in certain instances with regard either civil or criminal matters, a constitutional amendment would be required. This is hardly self-regulation or independence! Why should the CJN have to lobby lawmakers, not just at the National Assembly, but across the various State Houses of Assembly, in order to improve or implement desirable changes to the structure of our courts, or how we appeal both civil and criminal matters?

It’s for these reasons that an Administration of Justice Act, under which the CJN and other influential Judges in consultation with the Attorney-General and National Assembly can effect necessary changes from time to time to the Judicature provisions, without the need to go through a tedious and full scale constitutional amendment which would also require the consent of 2/3 of the Houses of Assembly in the Federation.

The US Constitution doesn't have a specific section, dedicated solely to appeals in civil or criminal cases.

However, several provisions touch on aspects related to appeals and the judicial process: Relevant Provisions include: •Article III, Section 2. This Section outlines the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court, including its appellate jurisdiction in cases involving Federal law or treaties.

- Habeas Corpus Clause (Article I, Section 9, Clause 2). This clause relates to the right to challenge detention or imprisonment, which can be relevant in criminal cases.

Appellate Jurisdiction - The Constitution grants Congress the authority to define the appellate

institution of higher learning, you cannot use the title of Dr. It’s time Nigeria followed suit, and pass legislation to this effect.

Furthermore, for fairness and balance in the profession, the LPPC should reserve a slot or two for the appointment of an Honorary Senior Advocate (Honaris Causa). This should be reserved for Lawyers who have distinguished themselves and contributed immensely to the development of the profession, and not necessarily as Practitioners in the Court room. Members of the National Assembly who are Lawyers and indeed, legal journalists who are committed and have dedicated themselves to passing meaningful legislation and reporting updates in the law that impacts positively on the profession, should also be considered for Senior Advocate Honaris Causa as is the practice in the UK. This would no doubt encourage our Legislators, to be more proactive in passing legislation that promotes justice sector reform. This is how to improve and preserve the profession.

S jurisdiction of the Supreme Court and the lower Federal courts.

- Through legislation, Congress has established the framework for appeals in Federal courts, including the procedures and grounds for appeal. While the Constitution doesn't explicitly guarantee a right to appeal, it provides a foundation for the judicial system and the structure of appellate jurisdiction.

The specifics of appeals in civil and criminal cases, are largely determined by statutory law and judicial interpretations. The US has cultivated a less rigid approach to the appeals process, by allowing Congress to legislate in this regard.

It’s time for Nigeria to follow/adopt a similar approach, and become less rigid in the constitutional appeals process by opting instead for an Administration of Justice Act. It would allow for better fluidity, in initiating justice sector reforms.

Recorders of the Court of First Instance of the High Court Trials are the bedrock of litigation, in any jurisdiction.

Unfortunately our Judges spend an inordinate amount of time attending to interlocutory matters, and are not able to focus enough on trials. It’s time for Nigeria to create the position of Recorder, as is the practice in England and Wales and other Common law jurisdictions.

Hong Kong, for instance, operates a system of appointing part-time Recorders similar to that of England and Wales. The Recordership scheme was introduced in Hong Kong as far back as 1994, to encourage experienced practitioners who are willing to sit as High Court Judge for a few weeks every year, but are not prepared to commit themselves to a permanent, full-time appointment.

It was intended to act as a more formal system of appointment, compared to the more ad-hoc nature of the appointment of Deputy High Court Judges (a system we once had here in Nigeria in the past).

Recorders are practitioners in private practice (senior Counsel) who are appointed by the Chief Executive (the equivalent of our Governors) on the recommendation of the independent Judicial Officers Recommendation Commission (JORC).

The appointment is for a fixed term of a few years, during which the practitioner sits as a Recorder

“Furthermore, for fairness and balance in the profession, the LPPC should reserve a slot or two for the appointment of an Honorary Senior Advocate (Honaris Causa). This should be reserved for Lawyers who have distinguished themselves and contributed immensely to the development of the profession, and not necessarily as Practitioners in the Court room”

Advocacy, Ethics and the Bar Another area of concern touched upon during the Ikeja NBA law week, had to do with ethics at the Bar. A lot has been said over the years on the need for stricter ethics, with particular regard to advocacy at the Bar. Ironically, our Senior Lawyers have been pointing their fingers at their junior colleagues, without proper introspection amongst themselves.

A worrying trend has developed in the field of Arbitration here in Nigeria lately, and it’s threatening to cause immense damage to our standing in Arbitration disputes and it needs to be curbed immediately. Many of our Senior lawyers particularly the SANs act as Counsel or previously acted as Counsel for many commercial arbitration parties, and then subsequently, hearing cases in the Court of First Instance of the serve on an arbitration panel that involves a dispute High Court for a few weeks a year. Recorders between their client or former client, without making may exercise all the jurisdiction, powers and adequate or proper disclosure. This practice is most privileges of a full-time Judge of the Court of unconscionable, and most be stopped henceforth.

How can these same Lawyers teach ethics at the Bar, First Instance.

The qualification for appointment as a Recorder if they themselves are compromised and engaged in is the same as that of High Court Judge: that unethical behaviour? The conflict of interest is glaring, is, having practised for at least 10 years as a and most other Common law jurisdiction Lawyers Barrister, Advocate, Solicitor or Judicial Officer in who are engaged in such unethical practices would Hong Kong or another common law jurisdiction. be sanctioned, or in extreme instances, suspended There is no conceivable reason why we can’t or disbarred.

The SBL or SLP of the NBA need to take urgent make similar appointments along these lines here in Nigeria, to assist our overburdened stringent and immediate steps, to look into and Judges with interlocutory applications, judicial curb this unethical malaise. It is probably one of review applications and originating summons the reasons why the same Arbitrators, are seen to applications. It would also serve as a useful clog commercial Arbitration here in Nigeria. It’s not pool in selecting full time Judges and perhaps, competence as such, but an unethical cartel that is even Senior Advocates in the long run. We must threatening the reputation of Arbitration practice strive to improve our judicial structure, and here in Nigeria. not remain unduly static. As in England and Wales, if we adopt this system here in Nigeria, Conclusion it’s best the Recorder sits as a part-time circuit If we are to preserve the legal profession here in Judge. In short if you practice law in Lagos Nigeria for tomorrow, then we can no longer afford State for instance, you will be eligible to sit as to be isolationist. It’s drawing us back. In this new a Recorder in any State other than Lagos, to age of technology and artificial intelligence, the legal avoid conflicts of interest with potential clients. profession must be able to meet the new challenges It would also elevate the status and recognition of the digital age. In my early days of practice, of many senior Lawyers, who are neither Judges the ‘Grandees’ of the profession at the time, Chief Rotimi Williams, SAN; Chief GOK Ajayi, SAN or Senior Advocates. and Kehinde Sofola, SAN but to mention a few, Academia and the Award of the title all had the latest English law reports and the White Book supplied to their respective chambers, and Honorary SAN This would no doubt prove largely contentious competition was about how to bring the new legal particularly amongst our Senior Advocates, but concepts as in those English and Commonwealth the award of the prestigious title of Senior Countries into Nigerian law. That was how cases Advocate of Nigeria shouldn’t unduly become such as Kotoye v CBN- 1985 1 NWLR (Pt. 98) a cartel, and it’s only fair that the award should 419 on the grant of ex- parte orders of injunction be subject to reform and changes from time and Sotuminu v Ocean Steamship (Nig) Ltd (1992) LPELR-SC 55/1990 on the grant of Mareva to time.

In recent years, the number of Academics Injunctions came about.

Today, we are lagging behind. There is no procedural appointed to the rank of SAN has been drastically exclusivity rule as of yet in initiating public and private reduced from about ten appointees to one. The law actions, and some basic tenets of procedure law non-Academic Practitioners complained that it had become a much easier route to obtain such as discovery of documents are rarely utilised the title through the academic route, and as in our Courts, even though they’re within all the a consequence, lobbied the Legal Practitioners State High Court Civil Procedure Rules.

Greater exposure is needed, and our Lawyers need Privileges Committee (LPPC) to have the numbers reduced. The irony however, is that the non- to become more internationally inclined and obtain Academic Practitioners themselves have been international qualifications to practice in cross-border unfairly striving and obtaining academic titles jurisdictions. The World has become one big global to add to their credentials, even though they village, and the Nigerian Lawyer needs to be primed are not proper Academics. Many have added to be able to compete with Lawyers from other the appellation of Doctor to their credentials, jurisdictions. We definitely have the ability, it’s just without actually obtaining a doctorate degree. the desire to implement reform and change that’s Others call themselves Professor, even though becoming a problem.

Chukwudi Enebeli, SAN summed it up perfectly, they are no more than Visiting Professors in a University without a Chair. This is unfair to when he wrote “To preserve the legal profession the true Academics. Who is going to stand up for tomorrow we must invest , not only in for them? In some cases, the academic title is institutions and infrastructure but in people. Our young Lawyers must be given real opportunities, purchased like a commodity.

The Government of Ghana has now banned not just ceremonial mentorships. They must be the use of honorary doctorate titles by politicians, equipped with the tools of modern practice, businessmen and religious leaders. Henceforth and more importantly, they must be exposed to in Ghana, if you have not gone through the the values that built the profession. Diligence, process and acquired a PhD in a recognised courtesy and respect for the rule of law”.

5.8.2025 XI

XII

T H I S D AY • TUESday AUGUST 5, 2025

Politics

Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com 08033025611 sms only

Ahead of 2027, Tinubu Faces Growing Backlash from Arewa Leaders

John Shiklam writes that the recent two-day Interactive Session on Government-Citizens Engagement in Kaduna, may have been convened in the spirit of civic dialogue, but it revealed deeper under currents of regional grievance, political fragmentation, and contested narratives.

Tinubu

T

he two day Interactive Session on government-citizens Engagement which held from July 29 - 30, 2025 at Arewa House, Kaduna, has elicited a lot of responses from Northern political elites and stakeholders.

Organized by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation (SAMBF), the event appeared to serve as a barometer for assessing perceptions about the Tinubu administration in the north ahead of the 2027 general elections.

While the objective of the gathering was to evaluate the performance of President Bola Tinubu following commitments he made during a similar engagement on October 17, 2022, alongside other presidential candidates, the proceedings suggested underlying political discontent among Northerners.

A segment of Northern leadership and public opinion appears increasingly dissatisfied with Tinubu’s governance record over the past two years, raising questions about his support base in the region as the next electoral season approaches.

The interactive session has an avenue for some influential Northern voices, to raise questions about political equity and support as 2027 approaches.

The event which was organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation (SAMBF), was attended by high-level political leaders, traditional rulers, civil society, and federal government officials, mainly from the North.

Though the event was to assess electoral promises made to the North by President BolaTinubu during the campaigns in 2023, it provided avenues for some aggrieved political stakeholders, particularly a vocal segment of Northern elites who allege growing marginalisation by President Tinubu’s administration.

With 2027 looming, the discourse at Arewa House underscored a potentially significant political rift. The Northern region, which overwhelmingly backed Tinubu during the 2023 presidential election, now finds itself divided over his performance and posture towards the region.

The most stinging criticisms came from Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu, Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), the leading socio-political group

Dalhatu

in the north. In an address at the event, Dalhatu did not mince words about the North’s disappointment with Tinubu.

“Two years into the four-year tenure of President Tinubu, the feeling among the people of the North is, to put it mildly, completely mixed,” Dalhatu declared.

He accused the administration of sidelining the North in key areas, such as federal appointments, infrastructure development, and budget allocations.

“To our surprise, those who did not support him, did not vote for him and hardly wished him well, have emerged from nowhere and are trying to push a wedge between him and the North,” Dalhatu added.

“Whether or not they are succeeding, we do not know. But we cannot pretend not to observe that President Tinubu’s budget priorities, his infrastructural projects, his appointments, and other executive actions have, over the last two years, largely sidelined Northern Nigeria”, the ACF leader said.

He reiterated the region’s overwhelming electoral support for Tinubu in 2023, claiming that “5.6 million out of the total 8.8 million votes garnered by Tinubu in the election were from the North”— a figure disputed by independent analysts but widely cited by Northern loyalists.

Beyond political appointments,

Yahaya

Dalhatu lamented the persistent security challenges plaguing the region.

“Over the last decade, widespread violence, characterised by massacres, bombings, cattle rustling, kidnapping and other manifestations of conflict and insecurity has swept across Northern Nigeria, crippling almost all productive economic activities and social progress,” he said.

Dalhatu faulted the President for allegedly failing to implement bold measures to combat insecurity and youth unemployment, two of the region’s most pressing challenges.

“The federal government’s budget priorities, infrastructural projects, investments and even social services have been openly skewed against Northern Nigeria.

“This discriminatory practice is not done secretly, it is splashed directly into our face – openly and frankly and without the need for apology,” he said.

However, Northern Governors under the umbrella of the Northern States Governors Forum (NSGF) presented a starkly contrasting view, defending Tinubu’s leadership and outlining progress under his administration.

Chairman of NSGF and Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, was unequivocal in support of the president.

“I make bold to say that the evidence of progress is visible across our region,” Yahaya stated.

He cited ongoing infrastructure projects such as the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Expressway, the

For President Tinubu, who faces re-election in 2027, the message from parts of the North is unmistakable: the region is demanding for more before supporting him in 2027.

The interactive session was meant to be a platform for reflection and dialogue. In reality, it became a test of Tinubu’s Northern credentials.

While he passed in the eyes of his allies, a section of the region remains unconvinced.

Kano-Katsina-Maradi rail line, the rehabilitation of the Kaduna Refinery, and the Abuja-KadunaKano Gas Pipeline project.

“These projects promise to bring industrial growth and energy security to Northern Nigeria,” Yahaya said. He also referenced new initiatives including the Sokoto-Badagry Super-highway and agricultural value chains targeted at Northern producers.

On security, Yahaya credited the Tinubu administration with eliminating over 300 terrorist and bandit kingpins through coordinated military operations and improved intelligence gathering.

He also praised the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development and federal grants for youth empowerment.

“The pain is real, but so is the progress,” he added, acknowledging the hardships caused by economic reforms such as subsidy removal and currency floatation.

In his address, Governor of Kaduna state, Senator Uba Sani, asked Northern leaders to stop blaming Tinubu for the region’s longstanding problems.

He accused some elite of political opportunism and historical amnesia.

Sani said, “For over 20 years, insecurity grew, education declined, and poverty deepened.

Where were the loud voices now blaming Tinubu when these things took root?

“It is hypocrisy to now shift responsibility to a government that inherited decades of rot,” Sani argued.

He called for introspection, collaboration, and a halt to the “blame game.”

“Yes, President Tinubu made promises. But let us be honest with ourselves, he has kept faith with the North in many critical areas — security, agriculture, education, economic inclusion.

The real question is, have we kept faith with our people as Northern leaders?”

Sani emphasised that the federal government cannot single-handedly solve the North’s problems without strategic collaboration from regional governments and traditional institutions.

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

XIII

T H I S D AY • TUESday, August 5, 2025

This Week In Tech 08097710984 (WhatsApp only)

alekhuogien@yahoo.com

Nosa

Alekhuogie

H1 2025 Scorecard: Nigeria’s Top Firms Post Double-digit Growth Despite Economic Headwinds Cement, oil, and telcos drive H1 2025 profit surge

T

he first half of 2025 has painted a mixed yet largely positive picture of Nigeria’s private sector. From the boardrooms of cement and energy giants to the trading floors of telecoms, banks, and consumer goods firms, companies listed on the Nigerian Exchange have weathered the challenges of macroeconomic reform, inflation, currency swings, and rising costs to report strong results. The numbers indicate that, despite ongoing economic vulnerabilities, new growth is beginning to emerge.

Driven by a combination of price-driven revenue growth, cost-efficient strategies, and improved foreign exchange management, companies such as MTN Nigeria, Dangote Cement, Seplat Energy, Lafarge Africa, Ecobank Transnational, and Access Holdings emerged as standout performers.

Meanwhile, others such as Unilever Nigeria, Transcorp Power, and FCMB demonstrated renewed investor confidence by not only growing earnings but also declaring interim dividends. However, the corporate landscape was not without its underperformers. Dangote Sugar, Guinness Nigeria, and First HoldCo reported profit declines or losses, reflecting the uneven impact of Nigeria’s reform journey.

MTN Nigeria makes history with N10tn market cap

The standout moment of H1 2025 came from MTN Nigeria Communications Plc, which became the first Nigerian Exchange (NGX)-listed company to reach a N10 trillion market capitalisation. At the close of trading on August 1, its share price surged to N480, reflecting a 1.69 percent gain.

MTN’s stock has gained 136 per cent year-todate, with a one-year growth of 148.42 percent and a five-year surge of 300.34 percent. In the past quarter alone, the shares jumped 88.80 percent, underlining investor optimism and belief in its long-term value. The company posted a 54.6 percent increase in service revenue, a 119.5 percent rise in EBITDA, and a return to profitability with N414.9 billion in profit after tax.

The Chief Executive Officer of MTN, Karl Toriola, said, “We are excited by the progress made in the first half of 2025, reflecting the successful execution of our strategic priorities.

We accelerated investment in our network to enhance capacity, coverage, and quality of experience.”

With N565.7 billion in capital expenditure in the first half of the year alone, MTN is aggressively expanding its operations in mobile services, data, fintech, and infrastructure. Lagos alone accounts for 25 percent of MTN’s traffic, underlining the company’s central role in Nigeria’s digital economy.

Cement and construction: A sector rebuilding its strength

Nigeria’s cement industry remains one of the strongest pillars of the listed market, and H1 2025 proved no different. Dangote Cement, the country’s largest company by market capitalisation after MTN, posted a record-breaking profit after tax of N520.46 billion for H1 2025.

This represents a 174 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024, achieved despite a modest drop in cement volume sales, from 13.93 million tonnes to 13.37 million tonnes. Total revenue rose to N2.07 trillion, showcasing the company’s ability to maintain pricing power even in a high-inflation environment. Operating profit climbed 29.1 percent year-on-year, reflecting greater production efficiency and a leaner cost structure. The company also benefited from a sharp reduction in finance costs, which dropped by 35.4 percent, while finance income skyrocketed by over 356 percent.

These shifts helped neutralise liquidity pressures and foreign exchange headwinds that had battered the wider industrial sector.

Dangote Cement’s earnings per share stood at N30.61, making it one of the most profitable companies on the Nigerian Exchange and reinforcing its status as a key pillar of the Nigerian economy.

In a similarly remarkable turnaround, Lafarge Africa delivered a 352 percent increase in after-tax profit, reaching N132.68 billion, compared to

N29.35 billion in the first half of 2024. This profit surge was driven by a 74.9 percent increase in cement revenue, significant cost control, and a remarkable 91.7 percent reduction in finance costs.

The company’s cash balance also rose by 128 percent, reflecting improved liquidity and stronger operational health. Lafarge’s share price rose by over 66 percent in the first six months of the year, outperforming the broader index.

report, with a profit after tax of N250 billion and earnings per share of N7.00. Total assets stood at N31.67 trillion. United Bank for Africa (UBA) reported a profit after tax of N156.34 billion, while Zenith Bank posted a profit of N291.73 billion and total assets of N24.31 trillion.

First HoldCo also maintained strong fundamentals, with earnings per share of N6.84, although its profit after tax dipped by 21 percent due to higher impairments.

Oil and Gas: Riding the Consumer goods: A mixed global energy wave bag of recovery and In the energy sector, Seplat Energy stole struggles

the spotlight with a revenue of N2.17 trillion, representing a massive 277 per cent year-over-year increase. Profit before tax totalled N454.11 billion. Seplat’s performance reflected the impact of favourable oil prices, deregulation reforms, and an expanded production capacity.

The company’s results showed that Nigeria’s oil and gas sector still holds vast potential for driving foreign exchange inflows and government revenues, especially when firms are strategically managed and supported by stable regulation.

Other energy firms such as Transcorp Power and Aradel Holdings also posted healthy growth. Transcorp Power reported N41.03 billion in profit before tax and N39.34 billion in profit after tax, which underlined the importance of domestic power generation as a profitable business line.

Aradel Holdings, a lesser-known but emerging upstream player, demonstrated strong performance with a 50 percent yearover-year increase in net profit, signaling that private-led ventures in the oil and gas sector are increasingly gaining ground.

Banking and Finance: Cost discipline and digital expansion

The financial services sector maintained its momentum, with Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI) taking the front seat.

ETI reported a profit after tax of N620.23 billion, representing a 40 percent increase from the previous year. The bank’s total assets reached N49.09 trillion, and most notably, its cost-to-income ratio improved to 49.1 percent, its best level in a decade.

Access Holdings also delivered a solid

The consumer goods sector saw both signs of recovery and lingering hardship.

Unilever Nigeria was a clear bright spot.

After years of underperformance, it delivered a 225 percent surge in profit after tax, declaring its first interim dividend in over two decades.

Nestlé Nigeria also returned to profit, posting a N10.02 billion profit after tax, compared to a loss of ₤49.89 billion a year earlier. Meanwhile, BUA Foods delivered a 104 percent increase in profit to N112.1 billion.

Dangote Sugar Refinery nearly doubled its revenue to N430.21 billion, a 45.5% increase from H1 2024, and swung back to profitability in Q2 with a N523.8 million pre-tax profit, after posting a N104.5 billion loss last year. Despite import challenges, the company’s 1.49 million MT refining capacity and sugarcane plantation investments continue to anchor its long-term growth.

Meanwhile, Guinness Nigeria Plc reported a N16.2 billion profit after tax, rebounding from a N54.7 billion loss in FY24. Revenue climbed 66% to N496.6 billion, boosting its stock price 51.5% year-to-date, far outpacing the market. Yet, while Guinness celebrated 75 years with renewed investor confidence, persistent inflation and consumer spending pressure continue to weigh on other operators in the segment.

Agribusiness and manufacturing: A quiet surge

Okomu Oil Palm emerged as a strong player in the agribusiness space, with a 73 percent increase in revenue and a N47.5 billion profit after tax. The firm

benefited from strong global palm oil demand and domestic shortages of key food items.

The return of interim dividends among some manufacturing firms also signaled renewed confidence in future earnings.

CFG advisory outlook adds broader economic context

Adding context to the performance of these firms is the recent ‘CFG Advisory Nigeria 2025 H2 Review’ report, which highlights the fragile transition from macroeconomic stability to sustainable growth.

According to CFG, Nigeria achieved 3.84 percent GDP growth in Q4 2024 but fell to 3.1 percent in Q1 2025. Inflation, though eased to 22.97 percent, remains too high, and debt pressures are rising. The report highlights that Nigeria’s money supply has increased to N119 trillion, and debt servicing now consumes N16.3 trillion annually, exceeding the combined budgets for health, education, and infrastructure.

CFG warns that although FX inflows have grown to $8.1 billion monthly and reserves now stand at $40 billion, these gains must be protected through structural reforms and reduced borrowing. “The transition from stability to growth is not automatic,” the report stated.

“It requires policy implementation, private sector collaboration, and improved investor confidence.”

Significance for Nigerians, investors, economy

The H1 2025 results show that many top Nigerian companies are doing better.

Sectors such as cement, oil, banking, and telecoms posted strong profits, signalling that the economy is slowly recovering.

These results mean more tax revenue for the government and signs that businesses are adjusting well to challenges like inflation and currency changes.

For investors, it’s a positive signal as more companies are paying dividends again, and share prices are rising in key sectors. This indicates growing confidence in Nigeria’s economy, but risks such as high inflation and weak consumer spending persist.

For everyday Nigerians, it means there’s hope. When companies grow, they can create more jobs, improve services, and support lower prices in the long run. If reforms continue and companies continue to adapt, this growth can help build a stronger, more stable Nigeria.

XIV

FEatures

T H I S D AY • TUESDay, AUGUST 5, 2025

Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi Email chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com, Tel: 07010510430

Johnson Akinlolu: RCCG Goal is to Win 40 More Million Souls by 2032

The National Secretary of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, LP 64, Pastor Johnson Akinlolu, speaks about Vision 2032, church’s focus on evangelism, health, education, CSR and youths’ empowerment. He also revealed the secret behind the life of both the General Overseer, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, and his wife, Pastor Folu Adeboye. Charles Ajunwa brings excerpts nation, even as a governor. So, anybody that will achieve more in any set up today, the home must be a settled home. That's why we are preaching marriage, that husbands should love their wives, wives should love their husbands. And also both of them will come together to train their children in the way of God.

Can you throw more light on RCCG Vision 2032? ision 2032 is the vision of our Daddy in the Lord and General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye. It's a vision God gave to him in order to reach the unreached. That is, we are to propagate the gospel. We are to bring the people in the darkness to the light through evangelism and through any means we can use, either the crusades, evangelism, by one-on-one evangelism or group evangelism.

We are to reach the unreached people. These people are suffering. It is high time for them to come to seek to know the Light. Jesus died for all of us. As He died for us that are believers, he also died for the sinners out there. Take, for example, there was a particular year that Baba, who had retired in the mission, he's an elder, went under the bridge in Lagos and preached the gospel to people. That's where the Vision 2032 started from.

He preached to them, I was in the camp that day, and he brought these hooligans, the criminals, so to say, to the mission. He brought these people because he wanted to baptise them. That day I said, wow, a retired officer in redeem, still going about to preach the gospel, meaning Vision 2032 has come to stay.

So everybody in all the provinces, in all the regions, in all the parishes, areas, mention it.

It is our vision as well. So we are running this race together in order to shed light to the people in darkness. I strongly believe that very soon, even before the date, God will help us to actualise that figure we are expecting. It's 40 million souls that we are expecting. And if you see now in our Holy Ghost services, God is really using our Daddy to reach the unreached Even the issue of streaming now, worshipping online, we have a lot of candidates that are worshipping with us online. So I believe that vision 2032 has come to stay and God will help us.

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What are other means you are using to reach the unreached?

Yes, we are using CSR (Christian Social Responsibility). We extend arms to the poor, less-privileged. For example, even every group today is doing CSR. So from this church (RCCG Restoration Parish, Ejigbo, Lagos), you are also carrying out a special responsibility. The one they did today by giving people snacks is part of it because I saw the ushers going around. Apart from crusade or evangelism, we also do CSR. We also do projects. We have the community as well. We do roads, we construct gutters and so on. Also, recently, at Isheri Primary School, our people did something that amazed me.

They said that the school has incurred a lot of debt with the old NEPA. They have to put heads together, I mean our new people that we are coaching there, then pay the old electricity bill. And now the light has been restored. Those are the things that we are doing in order to achieve our vision.

Apart from Vision 2032, are there other things that the RCCG is doing to make the church of God in Nigeria in particular and the world at large to be peaceful?

If you discover in all our Holy Ghost services gathering, Mummy G.O. is always praying for this nation, for unionism and for one accord. And then Daddy has touched many lives and many ministries. He is going around. When they invited him to Orthodox churches, he did attend. And then at times he goes on typical Yoruba, in his message.

So, we have been going around, our prayer is that very soon whether the devil likes it or not, all Christian associations in Nigeria are coming together.

At the last Holy Ghost service, Pastor E.A. Adeboye preached on the theme: 'Destined for Greatness' Part 3. Can you throw more light on this?

Destined for Greatness. You know, everyone,

RCCG pays so much attention to youths?

Why? They pay attention to youths because they are our pillars for tomorrow. That's why today we have a youth church, we have a youth regional evangelist, we have a youth pastor and we have youth PICP among them.

Then we have youth intercontinental and so on. They are our tomorrow. We are doing everything at all costs to make sure our tomorrow is alright.

You’re also investing in education?

Yes. We’re investing in education because anybody that wants to grow must not stop learning. The moment you stop learning, you start dying gradually. For us to live long and to achieve more we must learn.

So, education is paramount in every system.

Pastor Folu Adeboye (Mummy G.O) recently attained 77 year. What can you say about the life of this amazing woman of God? Mummy has impacted a lot of lives. In those days when Baba visited the Let's Go A Fishing Centre, for a whole week, Mummy would continue to distribute all the gifts that Daddy brought home to people. You take this one to Baba's house, take this one to Mama's house, take this one to the less-privileged and so on. So, the issue of Mummy attaining 77 years today, you need to be in the Redemption City. Everywhere was filled up, we did rally for Mummy. All sorts of people, departments are meeting together to celebrate Mummy.

Mummy has impacted much more into many people's lives. Nobody comes her way and regrets that he/she ever knew her. She's a good mother in Israel.

Akinlolu we are born different. But when we come to the system, there is nothing God cannot do. So Destined for Greatness, the one who will likely be great in life must know the way. What is that way? Jesus is the only way. That is why Daddy is doing it.

He started three months ago, Destined for Greatness part one, part two. The one that is coming now is part four. So he is bringing everybody to that umbrella so that everybody will see themselves as great persons in life. No exception. Everybody is born great. And before we can achieve that, we must come to that umbrella, who happens to be Jesus, our captain.

This year's RCCG Convention is themed 'Overcomers', what are we expecting?

My prayer is that the day we come alive, there won't be any obstruction to that day. Because as an overcomer, it's a great theme. That whoever wants to overcome any length in life must find him or herself in that programme. And we have been praying and interceding for everybody leaving their domain to that venue, God will secure. The planes that are coming from all over the country, God will bring them safely. The road vehicles as well, and even to our powerhouse. I'm not talking about a prayer house now.

The powerhouse is that throughout that convention, everybody will be fed. There will be free meals. So we have been also praying that there shall be no fire disaster.

Those who are working there, God will

work with them. It's a great gathering that whoever finds himself or herself in that gathering will overcome for the rest of his or her life. Also, there will be free medical services. Daddy does pray, Mummy does give gifts, foodstuff, money, clothes to all the widows.

Your sermon centred on peaceful marriage. Why? If you have a peaceful marriage, the nation will be successful. If you have a good pastor, not in that church, it started from home. Anyone that will succeed in any organisation, as they say, charity begins at home. So, he's bringing that knowledge from home. The home must be a settled one. That family is unique.

They are children of God. That light will also shine upon every other person that comes their way. So that's why home is very paramount in time of a service in any church today. That's exactly what keeps our Daddy going. Mummy is giving him maximum support. Likewise, all the ministers you see out there, they have the support of their wives. (1 People should go to Open Heavens, it's loaded. If they can go through it, it talks much about home. How supportive Mummy Adeboye is to Daddy.

Up till tomorrow, they support each other.

And everything Daddy became today is through the support of our Mummy. And that's why Mummy is enjoying Daddy to the fullest. Even my wife is giving me maximum support. So, anyone that will prosper, either business, either home, either

What about Pastor Adeboye (DaddyG.O.)?

Daddy is an addicted and generous giver.

The one who took his gratuity and divided it into three. God said, son, divide your gratuity into three parts. Take this one to this ministry.

He said, okay, the other two are enough for me to amount to something. God said, take the second one to this less-privileged home.

He took it there. He said, okay, the last part is also something. God said, who told you you are the owner? Take it to this place. That was how it was distributed. Then Daddy is not on salary. He's not on payroll. But when Daddy is going on the street, when he looks at the pulpit for the first time and looks at it the second time, people that are following will get it for him. He has three mobile vehicles.

I entered one of them. There is nothing you find in the house that is not there. Those are the vehicles he's using when he visits centres of Let's Go A Fishing. So, he doesn't buy any of it with his money. People get them. Daddy, there is nothing that is too big that he cannot give out. He gives, even to other ministries.

Let me shock you. There was a particular year when he was riding a Pajero. And then God said, son, what do you want for your birthday that is coming in March? Daddy said, Daddy, is that you? If you are the one, I want the lame to walk. God said to him, it's simple. Go and dash away your vehicle. Daddy announced it. I was part of those who were praying then. I prayed to God to mention my name to Daddy G.O. that I will be the one to win this Pajero.

Daddy said, he said, wow, when God says so. And God said, you said wow. When I told Abraham to offer his only begotten son, he didn't say anything. He said, I'm sorry.

That was the first time crippled jumped up and walked in Redemption City. He gave it to one particular pastor in another ministry.

So, there is nothing that they cannot give.

Both Daddy and Mummy are so blended.

They support each other.

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T H I S D AY • TUESDay, AUGUST 5, 2025

features

Sustainable Architecture: Building The Ajepako Mindset: Why Developing Nations Nigeria’s Climate-Resilient Future must Priotise Fundamentals over Indulgence Anthony Okoye

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his July, I had the privilege of moderating a pivotal session at the Future Cities Summit 2025 in Abuja—a conference that continues to position itself as Nigeria’s foremost gathering for sustainable urban development and green building innovation.

Themed “Smart, Sustainable & Resilient: Reimagining Green Building & Urban Governance for Future Cities,” the summit brought together policymakers, architects, urban planners, and thought leaders in a collective push toward solutions that will determine how our cities grow—and survive—amid accelerating environmental challenges.

What resonated most during the summit was the shared urgency: the recognition that climate change is no longer a distant threat but a lived reality already reshaping the way Nigerians build, live, and work. With rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall, flooding, and resource scarcity becoming more frequent, the need to rethink the architectural blueprint of our cities has never been more pressing. As both a practitioner and an advocate for green design, I believe sustainable architecture must now move from concept to norm—not just in policy documents or pilot projects, but in mainstream construction, procurement, and building culture.

Sustainable architecture is not simply about installing solar panels or applying sleek facades. It is a philosophy of design that responds intelligently to the environment, conserves energy, minimizes waste, and prioritizes long-term resilience over short-term cost-cutting. In Nigeria’s context, this means designing buildings that are responsive to our distinct climate zones, leveraging passive cooling techniques, using locally sourced and eco-friendly materials, integrating rainwater harvesting systems, and creating public spaces that support both human health and social connection.

Our challenge, however, is not only technical but also cultural and systemic. For decades, much of our built environment has been shaped by imported templates that neither reflect our climatic conditions nor address the socioeconomic realities of our population. We build glass towers that trap heat in tropical zones, estates without adequate drainage in flood-prone areas, and neighborhoods with little attention to mobility, inclusiveness, or environmental sustainability. Breaking this cycle requires a homegrown design approach rooted in context, culture, and climate.

As a Trustee of the Green Building Council of Nigeria, I have seen encouraging signs of change.

A growing ecosystem of Nigerian architects, developers, and policymakers is beginning to align its work with green building standards and climate resilience goals. Government agencies are also recognizing the economic and social returns of building sustainably. But this momentum must be scaled—urgently. Incentives for green construction, updates to urban planning laws, professional education, and public awareness campaigns are all critical in driving this transformation.

Before we leap into high-tech solutions, sustainable architecture in Nigeria should find its footing by reviving age-old wisdom. Passive design principles—such as thoughtful orientation, natural ventilation, and strategic shading—are being reintroduced, drawing inspiration from traditional housing like Yoruba courtyard compounds and Hausa deep-overhang structures. This low-tech ingenuity is visible in projects like the Abuja Technology Village, which leverages smart layout and shading to reduce reliance on air conditioning.

Meanwhile, indigenous materials like laterite, bamboo, and earth bricks are being modernized.

Compressed Stabilised Earth Blocks (CSEBs), for instance, demonstrate how eco-friendly choices can also be cost-effective. Bamboo is making a comeback—not just for scaffolding, but as a refined structural and interior material in community buildings.

New projects are also learning to coexist with water and energy challenges. In flood-prone cities, solutions such as rainwater harvesting, permeable pavements, and vegetated channels are helping reduce risk while promoting sustainability.

The University of Lagos Senate Building now incorporates a rainwater reuse system that addresses both flooding and water scarcity.

Forward-thinking developments are embracing building-integrated solar technologies, such as solar water heaters in Lekki Gardens and solar facades in new Abuja commercial sites. Examples like the NIA-backed Green Building Hub in Lagos, EDGE-certified estates like Southfield and The

Anthony Okoye Beehive, and the restoration of Gidan Makama Museum in Kano showcase how Nigeria is blending the old with the new—creating a homegrown blueprint for climate-resilient cities.

Ultimately, the future of Nigerian cities will depend on our willingness to embrace architecture not just as a tool for shelter or status, but as a catalyst for sustainable development. The buildings we erect today must withstand not only the test of time, but also a changing climate and evolving societal needs.

We must design with conscience, build with vision, and leave behind spaces that enable future generations to thrive.

The opportunity to redefine our cities is here—and it begins with how we choose to build.

Okoye has had a distinguished career spanning nearly two decades across Europe, North America, and Africa, bringing a global perspective to architecture and urban design.

A member of esteemed professional bodies—including the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), the Architect Registration Board of the UK, the Nigerian Institute of Architects, and the Architect Registration Council of Nigeria—his credentials reflect a deep commitment to excellence in his field. He is also a LEED-accredited professional, a British Chevening Scholar, and recipient of the Andrew Grant Prize from Heriot-Watt University, the University of Ife Fellowship, and the Federal Government of Nigeria Merit Award.

His academic training includes advanced degrees in Architecture and Urban Design from the University of Ife and Heriot-Watt University, Scotland, where he graduated with distinction. His professional journey includes impactful roles at respected firms such as GHK and Design Group (Nigeria), Sir Frank Mears Associates (UK), and Wallace Roberts & Todd (USA).

His architectural portfolio spans industrial, commercial, residential, and institutional developments, as well as urban revitalization and mixed-use projects. He has led major projects for global brands including Shell, Chevron, Procter & Gamble, Tetra Pak, Guinness, and LNG. As Managing Director and cofounder of Design Genre Limited—an architectural, planning, urban, and interior design firm at the forefront of sustainable practice in Nigeria— Anthony champions the urgent need for eco-conscious development.

He emphasizes that the future of architecture lies in resource efficiency and environmental responsibility.

“Sustainable design must go beyond aesthetics,” he explains. “It should reflect a commitment to using materials, energy, and development space wisely—contributing to the global vision of resilient, livable cities without compromising the needs of future generations.”

Abiola Olajide Abiola

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n the current wave of global conversations around development, innovation, and digital economies, many developing countries—particularly in Africa—are increasingly trying to imitate the cultural, social and economic practices of industrialized nations. But while inspiration is useful, imitation without context can be destructive. It is akin to an ajepako (streetsmart, less privileged child) insisting on living like an ajebutter (pampered, affluent child). The result is often misplaced priorities and prolonged poverty.

This analogy may seem simplistic, but it’s accurate. A nation with low Human Development Index (HDI), fragile institutions, high poverty rates, and poor infrastructure cannot afford to prioritize the same social indulgences as a country with high HDI, universal basic education, world-class healthcare, and stable governance systems. It’s not just about budget size or ambition—it’s about context and prioritization.

Take, for example, the growing obsession with social media content creation and reality television shows. While these platforms undoubtedly create jobs and build brand awareness, we must ask: are they the priorities we need at our current level of national development? Should they consume so much of our youth’s energy and national attention when we still lack decent primary schools, functional primary healthcare systems, and reliable local access roads?

This is not a call to shut down creativity or entertainment. Far from it. Every nation needs culture, recreation, and the arts. But the danger lies in prioritizing indulgences— yes, indulgences—over necessities. For a country where millions of children are out of school, and where many citizens still travel several kilometres on foot to access healthcare, channeling major national resources and attention into non-essential pursuits is akin to buying a PlayStation while your roof leaks and your children have no textbooks.

In the business world, this would be regarded as poor investment judgment.

Imagine a startup founder with no revenue stream prioritizing brand photoshoots over building a minimum viable product (MVP).

Or a retailer spending heavily on luxury office furniture while their supply chain is broken. The outcome is inevitable: collapse, burnout, or stagnation.

Developing countries—and by extension, their citizens—must understand the concept of staged development. We need to build from the ground up, not the top down. You don’t start building a skyscraper from the tenth floor. That’s architectural suicide.

Likewise, we cannot leapfrog into space exploration, artificial intelligence, or high-end biotech without first securing the basics: quality foundational education, primary healthcare systems, agricultural mechanization, sanitation, basic traffic management and critical infrastructure.

This is why I often laugh when I hear

some of our so-called development critics demand the same R&D budget allocations as the United States, Japan, or China.

These are nations that have spent decades investing heavily in foundational systems.

They didn’t skip steps. They invested in their people first—through education and healthcare—and then built institutions that enabled innovation and technology to thrive.

If you truly want to build the Nigeria, Kenya, or Ghana of the future, the first place to start is with our basics. For instance, instead of organizing television talent shows or social media challenges, why don’t we invest in training teachers in our public schools, or building tech labs in underserved communities? Why don’t we prioritize building PHCs and equipping local clinics with diagnostic tools before investing in medical tourism? Why are we not dismantling illegal tollgates from farming communities with a bid to moderate prices and making more rural roads motorable so our farmers can evacuate their produce to markets without it rotting in transit?

What about laying emphasis on technical or vocational training? Nigeria is building: homes, roads, bridges, even in the oil gas sector, mining, etc. We need a huge supply of skilled artisans. The focus should not be on content creation alone, but to get our young people trained on how to tile, paint, fabricate, weld, build, among others. Are the youths ready?

These are the fundamentals. They are not glamorous. They may not trend on social media or create viral moments. But they are what transform nations.

To the youth reading this, the message is simple: don’t chase indulgences at the expense of essentials. Build capacity, invest in personal development, learn vocational and tech skills, and think long-term. Social media fame may be fleeting, but competence is forever. Be the ajepako who studied under streetlights and later built a billion-naira enterprise, not the one who faked a lifestyle on credit just to fit in.

To policymakers and entrepreneurs, the same principle applies. Invest where it matters. Don’t be distracted by vanity metrics. In business and governance, the most successful people are those who solve real problems at scale. And in Africa, there’s no shortage of those: education gaps, electricity, food insecurity, waste management, logistics, healthcare, and financial inclusion.

These are the multi-billion-dollar problems that need solving.

Let us rethink our priorities as individuals, communities, and nations. It’s time to stop copying what doesn’t serve us and start building what will sustain us. The ajepako mindset— frugal, focused, and foundational—is not a limitation. It’s an advantage when channeled with clarity and purpose.

Because when the basics are in place, everything else—luxury, indulgence, and even space exploration—will come, in due time, and on our own terms.

•Abiola is an entrepreneur based in Abuja

XVI

TUESDAY, AUGUST 5, 2025 • THISDAY

polity Of Akpabio’s 10th Senate and the Rubber-stamp Tag?

By Jackson Udom

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ince the inception of the current Republic in 1999, the description rubber-stamp has remained a recurrent decimal in the Legislative/Executive relationship.

From the sub-national legislative houses to the National Assembly, the erroneous belief about the law-making arm of government being subservient to the executive arm resonates in political discourses and conversations. It became more pronounced during the Ahmed Lawan-led 9th Senate, which witnessed a sharp departure from the confrontational approach of the Bukola Saraki-led 8th Senate.

The Britannica Dictionary defines rubber–stamp thus: “to approve or allow (something) without seriously thinking about it.”

In the thinking of critics of political activities and developments since the advent of democracy, it is only a confrontational legislature that can achieve its purpose in the scheme of things, while a collaborative or supportive legislature is always said to be a rubber-stamp.

With the above unambiguous definition of the word rubber-stamp, the million dollar question then is, is the 10th Senate under the leadership of Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, truly a rubber-stamp legislature? The Akpabio-led Senate has faced scrutiny over whether it operates as a rubber-stamp legislature, merely endorsing executive decisions without critical oversight or not. But is this scrutiny justified?

In retrospect, when the current leadership of the Senate was birthed on 13th June 2023, it was very much aware of the age-long branding of a collaborative legislature as a rubber stamp, but it wasn’t in doubt that it was ready to put the interest of Nigerians first and above primordial sentiments.

From the outset, the 10th Senate made it clear to Nigerians that it was more determined to ensure that they get the true dividends of democracy through the passing of robust and life-changing laws rather than playing adversarial roles against the executive. Of the truth, who does legislative rascality and uncooperative stand against the executive help in the long run? No one.

Akpabio has also been consistent in stating that his leadership won’t be a rubber stamp, emphasising the Senate’s commitment to representing Nigerians’ interests at every of its sitting. Specifically, President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, had in one of his media comments, declared the readiness of

Senate President Godswill Akpabio the 10th Senate under his watch to partner with the executive in the overall interest of Nigerians.

He said “some people believe we were voted into office as lawmakers to wear boxing gloves against the executive. That is not why we are here.

We will rubber-stamp any executive bill that will positively impact the economic and social well-being of Nigerians and if that decision to cooperate with the executive in the overall interest of our people has made us a rubber-stamp Senate, so be it.”

As a reflection of that determination to serve Nigerians’ interests and to put national interest above combative and adversarial tendencies just to massage the ego of conspiracy theorists who would love to see the Senate always up in arms against the executive, the 10th Senate, has recorded key achievements and developments.

These achievements have, interestingly, come out of its independence but cordial relationship with the executive, with the Senate’s success in halting the hike in Electricity Tariff coming top of many interventions and showing the Senate’s willingness to intervene in matters affecting Nigerians’ welfare.

The Senate also delayed the confirmation of three ministerial nominees from the executive, while it disqualified some, demonstrating its commitment to thorough vetting processes.

In exercising its powers, the Senate also turned down approval for the planned deployment of Nigerian troops to Niger Republic, emphasising the need for diplomatic measures to be exhausted first. That disapproval for the deployment of troops highlighted the Senate’s role in shaping national security decisions.

Also, despite its being branded a rubber stamp, the Senate has passed several landmark bills, including the Student Loan Act Amendment Bill, Electricity Act Amendment, Tax Reforms Bills, and Regional Development Commission Bill. These bills aim to promote economic reforms, youth empowerment, and regional development.

In the area of oversight, the Senate has exercised its authority in the area of governance, summoning security chiefs to address insecurity issues and reviewing executive decisions.

Could a “rubber stamp” legislature achieve the above if it had been pocketed by the executive arm of government? With the 10th Senate having passed 96 bills, with 52 assented to by Mr. President, including the Minimum Wage Bill, Judicial Office Holders Salaries and Allowances Bill, and Investments and Securities Bill, it has shown that strength lies in collaboration rather than needless confrontations.

The Akpabio-led Senate has championed a multifaceted approach to national security, focusing on poverty reduction, unemployment, and social inequality as key factors fueling insecurity.

All these were achieved because Akpabio has demonstrated a leadership style that combines diplomacy with firm decision-making, fostering an atmosphere of cooperation among senators from different parties. The Senate has maintained a collaborative relationship with the executive arm of government, while emphasising legislative independence. And, as a result, Senator Akpabio has continued to succeed in ensuring stability and unity in the Senate, with senators passing a vote of confidence in his leadership on multiple occasions.

While opinions will continue to be divided over whether or not the 10th Senate deserves to be tagged a rubber stamp Senate, one thing is clear; it has excelled where past Sessions of the Senate failed, achieving impact on national unity and wellbeing and registering its mark on major policies that affect millions of Nigerians. If being of greater service to the interests of Nigerians and ensuring the ship of the country continues to sail smoothly are what it takes to be a rubber stamp, then critics of the Akpabio-led Senate can take a bow.

For the 10th Senate under Akpabio’s leadership, navigating a balance between cooperation with the executive and exercising its legislative powers with the ultimate goal of making Nigeria better and greater and bringing about a renewed hope for all Nigerians remain sacrosanct and no amount of criticism will derail that sole objective.

•Udom, is Special Assistant, Media To The President Of The Senate

FEATURE

Nigeria’s Advertising Rebirth: Charting a New Path Forward

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he 52nd annual general meeting of the Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN), held in Ibadan Oyo State, recently provided fresh opportunities for Ad practitioners to retool their industry in line with current global trends amidst digital revolution, staff remuneration and agency/client’s relationship.

Raheem Akingbolu reports.

The world is constantly changing and evolving, with new ideas and innovations emerging daily. According to a recent article from Sogeti Labs, new ideas build upon previous ones, creating a continuous cycle of progress. This evolution is driven by technological advancements, social changes, and the human desire to improve and create. This aptly describes the situation the marketing communication industry has found itself globally.

From Africa to Asia and Europe market, the realisation that the digital revolution has fundamentally reshaped the advertising landscape, shifting it from a massmarket, one-size-fits-all approach to a highly targeted, personalized, and data-driven model, has increasingly put practitioners on their toes. Of course, this transformation is driven by increased internet accessibility,

mobile device usage, and the rise of social media platforms.

Like other parts of the world, Nigerian practitioners are not leaving any stone unturned in their determined efforts to deepen practice to be able to compete favourably with the rest of the world. In the last 10 years, the efforts appear to be yielding expected results as a few ad agencies are now slugging it out with foreign agencies to win more multinational businesses and clinching global awards. In line with this drive, members of AAAN converged on the city of Ibadan last week to review their operations and challenges, hence the theme of the AGM, “Charting Bold Paths Forward,”.

Beyond the main business of the annual gathering, the association also used the event to showcase the country’s cultural heritage, inducted eight new member agencies, as well as creating a platform for networking and interaction among members.

Speaking at the event, AAAN President, Lanre Adisa, while calling for creative rebirth, urged practitioners to embrace bold thinking, radical reinvention, and deeper collaboration as the only viable path to sustainable progress.

Adisa noted that the theme of the 2025 AGM was deliberate and meant

to awaken the consciousness of the players to the emerging trend in the industry. He pointed out that the theme was a declaration of intent and a challenge to the entire ecosystem to keep moving forward despite the uncertainties of a rapidly evolving landscape.

Quoting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Adisa said, “If you can’t fly, run; if you can’t run, walk; if you can’t walk, crawl—but whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward.”

He stressed that the industry must not only keep pace with global shifts in technology and consumer behaviour but must also take charge of shaping its own future with clarity and courage. “Technology is not the enemy. Fear is,” he declared.

According to him, amid a wave of digital disruption, declining barriers to entry, and rapidly changing rules of engagement, Nigerian agencies must remain anchored in human insight, cultural truth, and the power of connection. “What truly sets us apart is not just our tools—but our truth,” he said.

A Call for National Recognition

The Ibadan gathering also provided another opportunity for

the practitioners to fire a salvo to the government at all levels to give more recognition to the industry and the practitioners. Over the years, the leadership of the association has consistently clamoured for more recognition and reeled out the values they were bringing to the nation’s economy. In 2014, the industry the industry took the bull by the horn by organising a national seminar on political advertising as an ample opportunity to open up on their relevance to national development.

In Ibadan, where the Director General of Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), Dr. Lekan Fadolapo stood in for the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, the AAAN President called on government at all levels to give the industry the attention and support it deserves. He lamented the continued absence of an ARCON Governing Council, describing it as a major impediment to regulatory effectiveness and industry advancement. “It is of great concern that we have done over ten years without a Council,” he said. “We have transitioned from APCON to ARCON, one administration to another. Yet, we don’t have a Council.” He also urged

the federal government to adopt a Nigeria First policy by mandating that only ARCON-certified agencies should be allowed to bid for all marketing communications contracts involving MDAs. This, he said, would not only elevate the quality of government messaging but also ensure that local agencies thrive and contribute more meaningfully to national development.

He thanked Fadolapo for his commitment and passion, describing him as “indefatigable” and likening him to the British Marmite brand—“love it or hate it, but impossible to ignore.”

Adisa applauded his role in introducing the Advertising Industry Standard of Practice (AISOP), which he said had begun to address long-standing challenges in client-agency relationships. However, he insisted that there is still much more to be done, and reaffirmed AAAN’s willingness to collaborate with ARCON and other sectoral bodies to refine AISOP and work together on strategic initiatives such as the Stock Image Project and Online Advertising Regulation.

He noted that the industry is fast approaching a historic milestone: the centenary of advertising in Nigeria, which comes up in 2028. “That’s a century of building brands, promoting businesses, and shaping the

national conversation,” he said. While acknowledging the accomplishments of the past, he urged the industry not to rest on its laurels but to be even more ambitious about what lies ahead. “Let us ask the hard questions.

Let us embrace the tough solutions.

Let us imagine bolder futures—not just for our agencies, but for our industry as a force for national development, cultural identity, and economic growth,” he added.

Re-envisioning the Place of Advertising in the Marketing Mix

Fadolapo, while congratulating the association for constantly reinventing, reiterated the importance of regulation to ethical advertising practice.

As a prelude to the panel discussion which focused on: Policies and regulations shaping the sector’s future; Strategies for fostering a dynamic and sustainable creative economy; as well as Pathways for agencies to respond to disruption with creativity and agility, Fadolapo took members of the association through a few interventions of the regulatory body, which has saved the country of many national embarrassments.

Continues online

19

THI S DAY • Tuesday, August 5, 2025

BUSINESSWORLD R A T E S MONEY MARKET

A S

REPO

A T

Group Business Editor Eromosele Abiodun Email oriarehu.eromosele@thisdaylive.com

08056356325

J u L Y

S & P INDEX

2 8 ,

2 0 2 5

S & P INDEX

EXCHANGE RATE

OPR

25.34%

CALL

23.25%

INDEX LEVEL

595.26

1/4 to daTE

0.24%

N1,608.44/ 1 US DOLLAR*

OVERNIGHT

25.18%

1-MONTH

21.37%

1-DAY

0.10%

YEAR TO DATE

-10.99%

*AS AT MONDAY., JuLY 28 , 2025

3-MONTH

22.41%

MONTH-TO-DATE

0.24%

With 100m Barrels, Delta Retains Lead as Nigeria’s Top Oil-producing State, Lagos Records Zero Output

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Delta state has again emerged as Nigeria’s top producer of crude oil and condensates, maintaining a wide lead over other states and reinforcing its central role in the country’s hydrocarbon economy.

This is according to the latest data released by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), which covered crude oil and gas production figures from November 2023 to September 2024.

The report showed that Delta alone accounted for nearly 100 million barrels of oil and condensate within the 11-month period.

Specifically, the state produced 99.9 million barrels, by far the largest contribution by any state during the review window.

This figure represented over a

third of Nigeria’s total attributed crude and condensate production of 295.34 million barrels during the same period.

Following Delta in oil production were Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, and Rivers states, which have traditionally formed the backbone of Nigeria’s petroleum output. Akwa Ibom produced about 60.32 million barrels, while Bayelsa delivered roughly 53.2 million barrels during the period under consideration.

In the same vein, Rivers was only slightly behind Bayelsa with 50.83 million barrels. These four states alone accounted for nearly 90 per cent of the country’s oil output, underlining their significance in the sector.

However, Lagos State, which had been listed among Nigeria’s oil-producing states following marginal production from the Aje

Field in the Dahomey Basin since 2016, recorded zero production of crude oil and gas within the period under review.

Last year, the Lagos state government disclosed that the sum of N3.911 billion had been realised since it became an oil-producing state, but noted that production had been hampered due to challenges faced by the company managing its exploration.

At the time, the state’s Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Biodun Ogunleye, said that there was a disagreement among the owners of the asset, OML 113. Following in that line, the NUPRC data showed that Lagos produced zero oil during the 11-month period, underscoring the fact that the pending issues on the oil asset remained unresolved.

Outside the traditional

powerhouses of the Niger Delta, oil production in other states was relatively modest. Ondo State produced 8.71 million barrels of crude oil, while Edo State contributed 7.76 million barrels.

Imo State followed with 6.32 million barrels. Anambra and Abia states produced 4.77 million barrels and 3.41 million barrels respectively.

The gas production data presented a slightly different picture in terms of leading states. Rivers State topped the chart with a massive 391.3 billion standard cubic feet (scf) of gas produced, even though it placed fourth in crude oil output. Bayelsa followed with 341.2 billion scf, while Delta again ranked high with 318.2 billion scf of gas.

Akwa Ibom also remained a significant contributor to Nigeria’s gas production, accounting for 211.9 billion scf. Edo State,

despite its relatively modest oil volumes, showed strong gas potential, producing 95.4 billion scf, well ahead of other states in its production category.

Besides, Ondo State added 27.1 billion scf, while Anambra and Imo produced 7.4 billion scf and 6.4 billion scf respectively. Abia contributed 4.46 billion scf of gas, while Lagos also recorded zero, consistent with its performance in oil.

In total, Nigeria produced 1.4 trillion standard cubic feet of gas during the review period, reinforcing the country’s considerable gas reserves and production capacity.

The combined gas output from Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta, and Akwa Ibom accounted for over 85 per cent of the national total.

The NUPRC’s state-by-state attribution system is designed to ensure transparency and equity

in the distribution of revenue from hydrocarbon resources. It also serves as the foundation for monthly remittances to RMAFC, which uses the figures to calculate the derivation entitlements and allocations to oil-producing states under Nigeria’s revenue sharing formula.

In all, the NUPRC figures reaffirmed the strategic role of the Niger Delta in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, even as production challenges persist across many fields.

The data further underscored the urgency of unlocking potential in underutilised regions and improving upstream investments, particularly in gas infrastructure and marginal fields that could boost output and revenue.

“Financing Manufacturing Concerns: Exploring Alternatives.” The event brought together manufacturers, financial experts, and government representatives to explore viable funding solutions for a sector grappling with inflation, forex volatility, and steep lending rates.

Ogun MAN Chairman, George Onafowokan, decried the rising cost of borrowing from commercial banks, driven by the high Monetary Policy Rate (MPR), which stood at 27.5 per cent as of May 2025. He warned that the cost of credit is becoming increasingly unsustainable

for manufacturers, making loan repayment burdensome and significantly eroding profit margins.

“To ease this burden, we are actively looking into more affordable avenues for funding,” Onafowokan said. Institutions such as the Bank of Industry (BOI), LECON Finance Company, and Agusto & Co. were present to offer guidance on accessible and alternative financing mechanisms.

Onafowokan also highlighted the sector’s broader challenges, including the naira’s devaluation from N447 per dollar in December 2022 to N1,605 by

mid-2024, surging production costs, and shrinking consumer purchasing power. Despite these setbacks, he noted that Ogun manufacturers have remained resilient, continuing to invest and operate across the state.

Speaking, Ogun State Commissioner for Industry, Trade, and Investment, Adebola Sofela, who represented Governor Dapo Abiodun at the event, praised manufacturers for their endurance.

He assured stakeholders that the state government remains committed to improving the ease of doing business through tax harmonisation and

infrastructure upgrades.

MAN President, Francis Meshioye, who addressed the gathering, urged both state and federal governments to adopt policy measures that actively support local manufacturing. He pressed for the implementation of a “Nigeria First” policy, mandating government ministries and agencies to prioritise made-in-Nigeria products.

Meshioye stressed the need for policy-backed patronage with consequences for non-compliance.

He further appealed to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)

to settle the $2.4 billion backlog in unpaid forex forwards owed to manufacturers and called for a revival of quarterly interactive sessions between industry leaders and government agencies.

He also demanded the rehabilitation of industrial roads in key hubs like Agbara and Ota and called for an end to multiple taxations and regulatory pressure, particularly from agencies such as the Financial Reporting Council.

NOTE: The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

Manufacturers Decry Soaring Borrowing Cost, Seek Alternative Financing Solution Arthur Eriye

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), has called on manufacturers across the country to adopt alternative sources of funding to keep their operations afloat and ensure long-term growth.

This is coming at time when the country’s economic conditions continue to strain the manufacturing sector.

This call was made during the 40th Annual General Meeting of the MAN, Ogun State branch, held in Abeokuta with the theme

Food

Commodities

name of commodity

Size

State

Price

name of commodity

Rice

50kg

Abuja

N92,500

Sorghum

50kg

LAGOS

Price

NOTE: The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

T o d ay

State

Price

name of commodity

Size

State

Price

100kg JIGAWA

N30,000

B EAN S

Benue

N95,000

Benue

N32,000

Brown Beans ₦90,000 – ₦95,000

100kg

50kg bag

N95,000 N100,000 N95,000 N100,000

100kg

Kaduna

N32,000

50kg

Lagos ₦195,000 – ₦200,000

50kg

Enugu

N24,000

50kg

Kano

White Beans ₦70,000 – ₦75,000

50kg

Lagos

N26,000

50kg

Borno

White Beans ₦72,000 – ₦75,000

50kg

Delta

White Beans ₦72,000 – ₦75,000

Size

50kg

Plateau (Jos)

50kg

Oyo

50kg

rivers

N99,000

100kg

Delta

N35,000

100kg sokoto

N99,000

100kg

Abia

N36,000

Oloyin (HONEY)

20

Tuesday, August 5, 2025 • T H I S D AY

BUSINESSWORLD

News Food

name of commodity

Palm oiL

C o m m o diti e s

P r ic e

T o day

State

Price

name of commodity

Size

State

Price

name of commodity

Size

State

25cl Lagos

₦20,000 – ₦42,500

Groundnut

100KG Kano

40,500

ONIONS

100kg

Ibadan N60,000

Size

25cl

PH

₦24,000 – ₦35,000

100KG Benue

47,000

25cl

OYO

₦22,000 – ₦35,000

100KG Lagos

45,000

25cl

IMO

N32,000-N56,000

100KG Delta

44,000

25cl

Edo

₦20,000 – ₦35,000

100KG

Abia

100KG KADUNA

25cl Abuja ₦25,500 – ₦35,000

Price

name of commodity

Size

Location

Price

MAIZE

50kg

Oyo

N30,000

50kg

Enugu

N30,000

100kg delta

N30,000

50kg

Abia

N32,000

N30,000

100kg KANO

N250,000₦270,000 N250,000100kg Plateau ₦270,000 100kg BENUE

100kg DELTA

N250,000

50kg

Lagos

N30,000

27,000

100kg LAGOS

N250,000

50kg

Kano

N32,000

40,000

100kg ENUGU

N250,000₦270,000

100kg Benue

N30,000

Dangiwa: Over N70bn Private Capital Mobilised to Drive Urban Housing Stories by Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, has stated that over N70 billion has so far been mobilised under a Public Private Partnership (PPP) to upscale Nigeria’s urban housing development.

Speaking while officially declaring open the 19th Edition of the Africa International Housing Show (AIHS), Dangiwa reaffirmed the commitment of the federal government to bridge Nigeria’s housing gap through bold, inclusive, and innovative reforms.

A statement by Special Assistant Media & Strategy to Dangiwa, Mark Chieshe, stressed that the minister noted that affordability remains the biggest barrier to homeownership on the continent, despite growing housing supply efforts.

“Across Africa, millions of families still cannot afford decent homes even when they are available. This administration is not just building houses; we are fixing the structural and macroeconomic foundations that will make housing truly affordable and sustainable for Nigerians today and in the future,” the minister said.

He highlighted the federal government’s three-tier Renewed Hope Housing Programme comprising Renewed Hope Cities, Renewed Hope Estates, and Renewed Hope Social Housing Estates - as the blueprint for delivering affordable homes nationwide.

“To date, over N70 billion in private capital has been mobilised under Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) to drive large-scale urban housing developments,” Dangiwa stated.

The minister also spotlighted key interventions by the Federal

REAN, NEMSA Partner on Safe Use of Renewable Energy The Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria (REAN) has said it is working on a strategic move to strengthen collaboration on standardisation, safety, and quality assurance within Nigeria’s fast-growing renewable energy sector with the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) This was disclosed when the REAN delegation, led by its President, Mr. Ayo Ademilola visited the Managing Director and Chief Electrical Inspector of the Federation, Aliyu Tukur, alongside NEMSA’s management team and technical officers in Abuja.

In his opening remarks, Ademilola said REAN was

Group Business Editor Eromosele Abiodun Deputy Business Editor Chinedu Eze Comms/e-Business Editor Emma Okonji Asst. Editor, Energy Emmanuel Addeh Asst. Editor, Money Market Nume Ekeghe Correspondents KayodeTokede(CapitalMarkets) James Emejo (Finance) Ebere Nwoji (Insurance) Reporter Peter Uzoho (Energy)

committed to promoting strict adherence to standards and safe practices across the renewable energy industry, according to a statement by NEMSA’s Head Communications & Protocol, Ama Umoren.

He noted that the association, which brings together over 300 stakeholders including developers, service providers, researchers, and equipment manufacturers, was actively working to harmonise local and international standards for the Nigerian market.

The visit provided an opportunity for REAN to formally introduce its Standardization Working Group and to seek NEMSA’s support in setting up a liaison desk that will serve as a dedicated channel for coordination, inspections, certifications, and information sharing.

REAN also invited NEMSA to participate in its upcoming Energy Access Roadshow — a state-to-state sensitisation campaign aimed at educating practitioners and the public on safe renewable energy practices and compliance requirements.

Also speaking, the NEMSA boss reaffirmed the agency’s statutory role in enforcing technical standards, testing and certifying electrical installations, and ensuring the safety of all electricity supply services nationwide.

He commended REAN’s proactive approach and disclosed that NEMSA was already collaborating with other regulatory bodies such as the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and the Nigeria Customs Service to tackle the influx of substandard products and unqualified installers.

Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), including the Rent-to-Own Scheme and Rental Assistance Product, designed to ease housing pressure on urban workers and young families, as well as the upcoming MOFI Real

Estate Investment Fund (MREIF) to expand access to long-term mortgage loans at affordable rates.

He further reiterated the commitment of the ministry to urban renewal and slum upgrades, aligning

with the UN-Habitat Global Action Plan and the Addis Declaration on Inclusive Urban Development to ensure that “no one and no place is left behind.”

Dangiwa called on development

finance institutions, donor agencies, and the private sector to partner with the federal government in transforming shared knowledge from forums like AIHS into tangible results for Nigerians.

NEITI Proposes Agenda for Nigeria’s Energy Transition The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) has proposed the deployment of data, inclusive policy making and implementation of reforms as a three-pronged way to ensure smooth energy transition and climate justice in Nigeria.

The Executive Secretary of NEITI, Dr. Ogbonnaya Orji outlined the agency’s proposal at the 4th edition of the National Extractive Dialogue (NED 2025) which took place in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, a statement by the Director, Communications & Stakeholder Management, Obiageli Onuorah, stated.

Orji told the audience that the theme of NED 2025, “Transitions, Divestments, and Critical Minerals:

Charting a Just Future for Nigeria’s Extractive Sector,” implores a look “beyond resource extraction and profit, towards a future that is anchored on justice, sustainability, inclusion and shared prosperity.”

According to him, NEITI is supporting the Nigerian government on its energy transition journey by conducting a comprehensive research study on energy transition’s impact on Nigeria’s economy aimed at providing data to guide fiscal planning, protection of livelihoods and alignment with Nigeria’s energy transition plan.

This, he said, is part of NEITI’s strategic response to the risks and opportunities emerging from the

global shift to renewable energy.

Furthermore, NEITI launched its data centre as its digital transparency backbone, with realtime, automated, and centralised extractive sector data which will enable automated disclosures and regulatory integration.

He added that NEITI is also advancing transparency in the solid minerals sector by tracking surging royalties payments such as gold at N2.92 billion, lithium at N398.19 million, tin at N540.7 million, and linking these to community development and national beneficiation.

He urged stakeholders to collaborate in leveraging NEITI’s credible data to drive transparency

and sustainable development.

“There can be no justice without data. No reform without records.

No future without facts,” Orji argued.

The Executive Director, Spaces4Change, and Convener of NED 2025, Mrs Victoria OhaeriIbezim, called for a reimagined, equitable future for extractive governance.

“Nigeria cannot afford to stumble blindly into this new era. Not again,” she said, emphasising that NED 2025 is a rallying point for bold, collective action to redefine the sector’s future through regulation, environmental accountability, and community protection.

FG: Oil, Gas Sector Remains Key Driver of Nigeria’s Economy The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Dr. Emeka Obi, has reiterated that the oil and gas sector remains the principal driver of Nigeria’s economy, contributing significantly to national revenue, even amid the growing global momentum towards energy transition.

According to a statement by the head, Press and Public Relations in the ministry, Chris Ugwuegbulam, Obi made this assertion in Abuja during his opening remarks at the 60th meeting of the Consultative Committee on Petroleum Statistics (CCPS), a two-day engagement organised by the Ministry of

Petroleum Resources and hosted by the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF).

Emphasising the centrality of data in shaping decisions related to exploration, production, pricing, and the broader energy transition agenda, Obi stressed that the need for dependable data to guide decisions in the sector cannot be over-emphasised.

“Your role as a committee is vital, not only in bridging gaps within the data ecosystem but also in standardising methodologies, validating sources, and fostering trust among both local and international stakeholders in the oil and gas

industry,” he said.

He lauded the committee’s continuous efforts across various agencies and parastatals in ensuring the production of accurate, timely, and credible data for national use.

Dr. Obi encouraged members to approach their deliberations with purpose, share insights, and pursue actionable outcomes capable of advancing the sector.

“This is an opportunity to strengthen a data ecosystem we can all be proud of, one that upholds transparency, accountability, efficiency, and pragmatism,” he added.

In his welcome remarks, the

Chairman of the CCPS and Director of Planning, Research and Statistics (PRS) at the ministry, Usman Abdulkadir, noted that the CCPS was initiated to drive the generation of petroleum-related data for policy planning, academic research, and economic forecasting.

Also speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of the PTDF, represented by the Deputy General Manager, Strategic Planning and Documentation, Mr. Muhammad Haruna, described the meeting as integral to strengthening the accuracy and quality of petroleum data in Nigeria.

OPEC Agrees to Raise Oil Output by 547,000 Bpd The Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and its allies known as OPEC+ on Sunday agreed to raise oil production by 547,000 barrels per day for September, the latest in a series of accelerated output hikes to regain global market share.

This was as concerns mounted over potential supply disruptions linked to Russia.

The move marked a full and early reversal of OPEC+’s largest tranche of output cuts plus a separate increase in output for the United Arab Emirates amounting to about 2.5 million bpd, or about 2.4 per cent of world demand.

Eight OPEC+ members held a

brief virtual meeting, amid increasing US pressure on India to halt Russian oil purchases - part of Washington’s efforts to bring Moscow to the negotiating table for a peace deal with Ukraine. President Donald Trump said he wants this by August 8, a Reuters report said.

In a statement following the meeting, OPEC+ cited a healthy economy and low stocks as reasons behind its decision.

Oil prices have remained elevated even as OPEC+ has raised output, with Brent crude closing near $70 a barrel on Friday, up from a 2025 low of near $58 in April, supported in part by rising seasonal demand.

“Given fairly strong oil prices at around $70, it does give OPEC+ some confidence about market fundamentals,” said Amrita Sen, co-founder of Energy Aspects, adding that the market structure was also indicating tight stocks.

The eight countries are scheduled to meet again on September 7, when they may consider reinstating another layer of output cuts totalling around 1.65 million bpd, two OPEC+ sources said following Sunday’s meeting. Those cuts are currently in place until the end of next year.

Nigeria is not among the eight countries, since it has barely been able to meet its production quota

of 1.5 million bpd.

OPEC+ in full includes 10 nonOPEC oil producing countries, most notably Russia and Kazakhstan.

The group, which pumps about half of the world’s oil, had been curtailing production for several years to support oil prices. It reversed course this year in a bid to regain market share, spurred in part by calls from Trump for OPEC to ramp up production.

The eight began raising output in April with a modest hike of 138,000 bpd, followed by largerthan-planned hikes of 411,000 bpd in May, June and July, 548,000 bpd in August and now 547,000 bpd for September.

21

T H I S D AY • Tuesday, August 5, 2025

BUSINESSWORLD

News

MEETING OF BANK CHIEFS…

L-R: Member, Committee of e-Business Industry Heads (CeBIH) Advisory Council/Head, Transaction Banking, UBA, Olukayode Olubiyi; Group Head, Digital Banking, Globus Bank, Dr. Chinyere Tony-Eke; Chairman, CeBIH/Chief Partnership Officer, Wema Bank Plc, Ajibade Laolu-Adewale; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Globus Bank, Elias Igbinakenzua; Executive Director, Globus Bank, Sunday Ilegar and Head, Products and Partnerships, Globus Bank, Oscar Muomah, during the hosting of CeBIH in Lagos…recently

NSDC Boss Urges Famers, Investors to Harness Lucrative Sugar Opportunities Sunday Ehigiator The Executive Secretary of the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC), Mr. Kamar Bakrin, has called on farmers and investors to seize the immense opportunities in Nigeria’s sugar industry, highlighting the availability of a 150,000-hectare land bank ready for sugarcane cultivation.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) at the NSDC headquarters, over the weekend, Mr. Bakrin stressed that local sugar production has become a strategic and profitable venture given Nigeria’s heavy reliance on sugar imports, rising demand, and current macroeconomic realities.

“This is the right time to invest,” he declared. “The Nigerian sugar market is valued at over $2 billion, with Africa’s at $7 billion. By 2030, the continent’s sugar deficit is

projected to hit 13 million tonnes due to growing demand and persistent supply gaps.”

Bakrin explained that recent foreign exchange challenges and global supply chain disruptions have made local sugar production more competitive, while importation has become increasingly costly and difficult. He noted that the Council’s land viability assessments had identified 150,000 hectares in secure regions with favorable climate, water availability, and community support, all primed for new investors.

He outlined four critical factors making investment in sugarcane cultivation highly attractive: a large and growing market, operational feasibility, sound economic fundamentals, and sustainable, future-proof business opportunities.

“To bridge the sugar production deficit, the Council plans to engage commercial farmers through an

outgrower initiative covering at least 50,000 hectares, focusing on areas around existing sugar estates in Numan, Bacita, Sunti, and Lafiagi,” he said.

To encourage investment, Bakrin revealed that NSDC has put together a comprehensive support package under the Nigeria Sugar Master Plan II (NSMP II), which

includes access to the Nigeria Sugar Industry Development Fund (NSIDF), import tariff waivers on equipment, a five-year tax holiday, 30 per cent tax credit on infrastructure costs, land clearing and lease facilitation, input and seedling support, mechanization assistance, technical expertise from the Nigerian Sugar Institute, and

guaranteed off-take agreements with local sugar processors.

“We are not just inviting investors; we are providing the tools, capital, and partnerships they need to succeed,” he emphasised.

On his part, the President of AFAN, Dr. Faruk Rabiu Mudi, pledged to mobilize farmers across the country to take advantage of

the commercial outgrower scheme, acknowledging that Nigeria’s local sugar production remains far below consumption needs.

“The production deficit cannot be left to NSDC alone. We will do our part to ensure our members show greater interest and commitment to sugarcane cultivation,” Mudi assured.

Sahara to Nurture Future Communication Leaders at UNILAG Global energy and infrastructure conglomerate, Sahara Group has reinforced its dedication to nurturing future communication leaders, emphasising the human advantage over AI at the #MADWITHCOMMS forum at the University of Lagos (UNILAG).

The #MADWITHCCOMMS, an acronym for ‘Making A Difference with Communications’, is a Sahara Group thought leadership initiative geared towards supporting, steering and shaping young professionals for impactful careers in communications.

This year’s theme, “Code vs.

Conversation: The Human Edge in a Digital World,” challenged

Mass Communication students at UNILAG to develop and deepen their indispensable advantage human skills, while leveraging unfolding technological advancements.

Sharing insights on the theme, Head, Corporate Communications at Sahara Group, Bethel Obioma, said it was imperative for comms professionals to master AI as a tool for efficiency, data, and insight, but layer over these, their unique human capabilities.

Obioma noted that contextual interpretation, emotional intelligence, ethical judgment, and empathetic communication, among others, provide the human advantage that

can be the “career differentiator”.

“Within minutes, you can input some prompts and AI can help you access historical data, generate reports, and insights that inform compelling narratives. But communication is much more than data. Everyone is looking to you for the human touch that will make your output genuine, unique and impactful,” he said.

He emphasised that rather than seeing AI as a threat, young professionals should embrace it as a tool that enhances but does not replace the human edge.

“Your ability to interpret context, understand nuances, feel the emotion

behind stories, and communicate with empathy is what will set you apart,” he added. “If you can harness this human advantage, you will not only make a difference, you will also ascend beyond the zenith of your career.” The event featured engaging breakout sessions where participants were grouped into teams to examine case studies in media ethics, crisis management, advertising biases, and responsible AI implementation. They were tasked with identifying flaws in the sample materials and proposing versions that emphasized ethical, creative and engaging storytelling, and most importantly, the human edge.

Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

organisations across Nigeria in applying for and managing small grants dedicated to tracking public procurement projects in their states.

According to the nongovernmental organisation, each grassroots organisation will receive a $300 Small Grant Fund to track procurement processes within their states.

PPDC Chief Executive Officer, Lucy Abagi, announced the initiative during a press conference in Abuja.

Abagi said application will open

on August 1 and run for two weeks, while the programme will end in December 2025.

He stated that the initiative, launched in partnership with Devon Technologies through the Budeshi platform, is designed to support community advocates, “whether you are a public procurement monitor, a grassroots organisation, or a citizen advocate, passionate about tracking public projects and ensuring service delivery reaches the unreached and communities

left behind.

“Built by Devon Technologies Ltd and powered by PPDC, this new system ensures that the grant process is inclusive, accountable, and citizen-centered, from registration to reporting.”

Abagi, however listed criteria to include owning a registered business organisarion, having a physical office as well as evidence of monitoring and tracking procurement processes in their respective states.

Oil Output Rise, Others P u s h A r a d e l ’s H 1 Revenue to N368.1bn PPDC Opens Portal for 37 Grassroots Procurement Monitors Peter Uzoho

Aradel Holdings Plc, a Nigerian integrated energy company has released its unaudited financial and operational results for the first half (H1) 2025, posting a revenue of N368.1 billion, up 37.2 per cent from N268.3 billion recorded at the same time in 2024.

The company’s Profit after Tax (PAT) grew by 40.2 per cent to N146.4 billion.

Aradel attributed the revenue growth to a number of factors including increase in oil export and improved utilisation of the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP). It also credited the growth to minimal crude losses and additional value from the Alternative Crude Evacuation (ACE) system, resulting in higher crude oil sales of 2.04 million barrels (mmbbls).

Commenting on the performance, Chief Executive Officer of Aradel Holdings Plc, Mr. Adegbite Falade, said the first half of 2025 was shaped by both opportunities and challenges for Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

Falade noted that global geopolitical tensions continued to drive supply uncertainties and price volatility, while local operating conditions, from

infrastructure to regulatory transitions, demanded resilience and adaptability.

He stated, “In the face of this dynamic landscape, our company remains focused and forwardlooking. We recorded strong operational performance, driven by stable average production volumes. We made significant progress on our strategic growth agenda.

“We successfully completed the acquisition of equity interest in Chappal Energies Mauritius Limited. Furthermore, our recent investment in Renaissance Africa Energy Company (Renaissance’), our deemed associate, has yielded positive returns, with our share of its performance featuring in Aradel’s books for the first time. ND Western Limited and Renaissance Africa Energy Company are expected to remain significant contributors to our bottom-line from non-operated assets into the future.”

He extended the company’s gratitude to Mr. Ladi Jadesimi, Mr. Ede Osayande, and Mr. Thierry Georger, who stepped down from Aradel’s Board after several years of dedicated service, in line with statutory tenure limitations.

The Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) has announced the opening of its online application portal for $7,500 small grant programme to empower 37 local organisations in Nigeria, to enable them to monitor and track procurement processes in their respective states.

The Budeshi Grant Application Portal is an open, transparent digital platform designed to support local

Seventh Series of Grooming Scholarship Grant Opens for Application Oluchi Chibuzor People for Better Livelihood Centre (Grooming Centre), a Microfinance Institution in Nigeria, has announced its 2025 University grant which is seventh in the series aimed at catalysing research and knowledge development.

The 2025 Grooming Centre University Grant will be awarded to 100 undergraduate and 50 post graduate students who are presently carrying out their research studies in the areas stated in the qualification criteria.

Speaking in Lagos to announce the call for application, Head of

special projects, Grooming Centre, Chikezie Egbulefu, said 150 winners would receive grants for impactful research to the tune of N20 million.

According to him, “Applicant must either be a student at the undergraduate or postgraduate level in a Nigerian tertiary institution whose research study covers any of such areas as financial inclusion, microfinance, rural development, social enterprise, MSMEs, technological development, digital finance, youth development, women empowerment or any other research that is aimed at lifting people out of poverty.

“The focus of the research study

must be relevant to the Nigerian context, practical, innovative and should be capable of promoting any of the above areas of interest, in the Nigerian space.

The research must show a high level of originality, imaginative thought and be data inclusive.

The applicant must be a student at an approved Nigeria Tertiary Institution.

“The applicant must submit a written recommendation from his/her project supervisor/ HOD. The applicant must submit a research concept of between 10-20 pages which will include an Introduction, Statement of the

problem, Research Questions, Research Objectives, Significance of the Study, Operationalization of terms, etc,” He however explained that there is no barrier to age, gender, religion or ethnicity to the grant scheme with application open from 21st July, to 10th October 2025.

Commenting, the,Chief Operating Officer CREM Consulting, Mr. Clifford Onyeike, said “there are also opportunities for 150 selected winners to receive further assistance even after the grant for projects that would require further assistance.”

22

T H I S D AY • Tuesday, August 5, 2025

BUSINESSWORLD

interview

‘Africa Creative Expo Aims to UseTourism to Address Disparity in GlobalTrade’

Intellectual property lawyer, former Secretary General of Performing Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria (PMAN), tourism management expert and the Managing Director/ CEO Afrocultour Limited, Chuks Akamadu, shares perspectives with the media on the Africa Tourism and Creative Economy Expo (AFTCREE) scheduled for Abuja in November. Olawale Ajimotokan presents the excerpts

You have an event coming up in November this year tagged “Africa Tourism and Creative Economy Expo 2025”, can you tell us more about the event? ell, the Africa Tourism and Creative Economy Expo (AFTCREE ) is an Afrocultour initiative conceived to complement the various commendable public sector initiatives across Africa; which interestingly is in furtherance of our commitment to mainstreaming culture and tourism into the economies of African States, for purposes of inclusive continental development and improved intra-continental trade.

It is regrettable that in spite of Africa’s remarkable supply of primary commodities such as agricultural products, minerals and raw materials, she contributes less than three percent to global trade at present. This is as miserable as it is lamentable. On the home front, the volume of intra-continental trade also leaves much to be desired. This sad reality is clearly beneath us and, quite curiously, does not reflect the abundance of resources - human and natural available on our shores. It was for this and more that the emergence of Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) in 2018 was widely embraced by Africans with lavish excitement. The legitimate expectation of Africans is that with the coming of AfCFTA, fresh trade frontiers would be opened, existing ones strengthened and the economies of African nations bolstered. While the AfCFTA initiative remains, in my view, a commendable trade masterstroke, it has become imperative for indigenous African non-governmental institutions and organizations to co-own AfCFTA in their enlightened business interests and give full expression to its laudable objectives, by running with the vision for mutual gain and shared prosperity on the continent. That is why the Expo aims, among other things, to urge African countries to commit to significant increase in their tourism and creative economy annual budgetary

in the tourism and creative industries and attract investments to the value-chains. Thankfully, this is in sync with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government and the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy under the transformational watch of Barr. Hannatu Musawa which is the Official Host Ministry of the Expo is solidly behind it.

W

How can Africa’s comparative and competitive advantage given its natural heritage in the tourism sector be used for accelerated trade and economic growth on the continent?

Perhaps you should have started by asking: does Africa know that she has comparative and competitive advantage in the global tourism ecosystem? I ask because the current posture of the continent which ironically is the largest free trade area in the world does not suggest that she is aware of such advantage.

Rather more primarily and quite unfortunately, too, a majority of African states have yet to even appreciate tourism as a major tool for economic diversification, growth and development. allocations, inaugurate “Agenda 2030”, which would aspire to increase Africa’s contribution to global trade from less than three percent to at least ten percent by the year 2030, through mainstreaming tourism and entertainment into the service industry, institute a peer review mechanism for African countries to compare notes bilaterally and multilaterally on emerging tourism and creative industry trends within the precincts of mutual profit.

Other objectives of the Expo include: fostering a culture of mutually-supportive sectoral collaboration amongst African countries and to highlight investment opportunities

Can you elaborate on this, please?

What I’m simply saying is that we can only discuss how Africa can take due advantage of her unique natural heritage to compete favourably if and when we have conquered the notion of tourism as being resident in the realm of leisure, and now do see it rightly as a major economic frontier that is capable of relocating our continent’s economy from the cesspit of dependency to sustainable shared prosperity. However, Africa is blessed with numerous heritage sites with huge touristic value that can be deployed for the attainment of her accelerated trade and economic aspirations. From the Namibian Spitzkoppe to Rwanda’s Mountain of Gorrilas, Morocco’s Djemaa el Fna and Pyramids of Giza in Egypt. We also have the Osun sacred groove in Nigeria, the Sossusvlei Dunes in Namibia, South Africa’s Table Mountains and the incredible all-year round animal migration from Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Reserve to Kenya’s Masai Mara. These are all choice tourist destinations with distinctive features that have largely remained Africa’s sleeping cash-cows over the decades. And it is for this reason and more that the forthcoming Expo is designed to be a wake-up call on Africa and her peoples. We cannot be blessed and living in midst of plenty yet hungry and still retain our status as the poorest region on the face of the planet.

Nigeria largely depends on oil revenue for its survival, how can culture and tourism improve the nation’s foreign exchange earnings?

This is one of the several issues my book (Harnessing Cultour for Economic Growth) addressed extensively. It is also why Afrocultour’s slogan is “Mainstreaming Culture and Tourism into African Economies”.With the exception of agriculture, the culture-tourism sector which I prefer to call the “cultour sector”, apart from being the largest employer of labour in the country is Nigeria’s low-hanging fruit in terms of economic diversification. Therefore, improving Nigeria’s foreign exchange earning can only happen if and when government elects to recognize “cultour” as a desirable economic path, by way of policy redirection, massive investment in cultour infrastructure and insisting on trained cultural and tourism experts running the various institutions that are saddled with the sector’s policy implementation. There is a reason why the ministry of justice is headed by a lawyer and ministry of health led by a health professional. Have you asked why a non-academic does not superintend National Universities Commission as executive secretary? And do you think that the government of United Arab Emirates was out of her mind when she merged her ministry of economy with tourism recently?

Look, it’s our wrong perception of tourism that has made it possible for Nigeria to be operating an obsolete tourism policy that dates back to 1988. It is for same reason also that the Nigerian Tourism Development Master Plan of 2005 hasn’t been reviewed till date. So, for us to earn forex from our vast cultour resources, we have to first view it as business, then treat it as such; which entails rethinking the entire sector, carrying out a SWOT analysis, needs assessment and investing massively in it with an eye on generating sustainable international tourist traffic. Thankfully, we do not have to reinvent the wheel. We can safely borrow a leaf from Mauritius, UAE, Rwanda, China or even South Africa. Yes, we can!

Tourism is labour and capital intensive, how can Nigeria or Africa at large develop infrastructure in the sector to contribute meaningfully to the Gross Domestic Product, GDP of African nations?

This is one of the major objectives of the Expo. To

develop infrastructure in the sector would require sheer shared resolve and commitment amongst African Union member states in this regard. Firstly, I would like to note that in conceptualizing the Expo, we took cognizance of Africa Agenda 2063 which was conceived to usher in “The Africa We Want” by the year 2063 as well as the legitimate aspirations of the AfCFTA. The global trade outlook is such that Africa being essentially an exporter of raw materials is without a shred of doubt weak in goods exportation. Little wonder that while the United States of America exported goods valued at $2.1 trillion in 2022, Africa posted $614.58 billion the following year. You can see the disparity clearly – but is sure does not leave us helpless either. The reason is simple: whilst we might not be strong in goods exportation, the good news is that what dominates global trade is the service sector, which tourism and creative industry are major components of. In fact, the service sector accounts for two-thirds of global trade at present. Thankfully, Africa has comparative and competitive advantage in both tourism and the creative industry. There is, therefore, every justification for Nigeria and all her sister-states in Africa to significantly increase their GDPs and reposition themselves in global trade through the cultour corridor, by means of huge investment in cultour infrastructure.

How can rural tourism and community-based initiatives broaden economic participation, ensuring that the benefits reach a wide segment of the people?

In our local parlance, we say “politics is local”.

But if there is anything more local that politics, it is tourism; because the tourist destinations are actually in the communities and it is the local economy that benefits the most in every tourist endeavour or activity. Whether it is the driver that conveys the tourist to and fro the site or the akara seller or the souvenir dealer or the drinking water hawker or the tour guide that takes the tourist around, what the tourist patronizes is the local economy. The beautiful thing about tourism is that its economic impact is both extensive and inclusive. Tourism effectively accommodates the skilled, the semi-skilled and the unskilled. It’s also gender-friendly and allows virtually all strata of the society to play in it unhindered. So, community-based initiatives alongside infrastructure development are actually the catalyst needed to promote domestic tourism, which in turn rubs off positively on international tourism. On the part of government, there should be a deliberate policy to encourage rural dwellers to take ownership of rural tourism, by viewing it as a profitable economic activity. That way, they would happily protect tourism infrastructure in their communities and complement both public and private sector efforts in marketing tourist sites and cultural tourism events for the benefit of all.

How have critical stakeholders embraced the concept of Africa Tourism and Creative Economy Expo and what is your key expectation from the Expo?

It’s been awesome. Foremost, we are grateful to Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy for accepting to go the whole hug with Afrocultour on this project. We are equally excited by the interest shown by the African Union Commission in the Expo and their readiness to take active part in it.

In the course of articulating this Expo idea and designing its implementation framework, we virtually toured the African continent and benefitted from the wise counsel and kind input of sister-states. Our meeting with His Excellency Hocine Mezoued,AlgeriaAmbassador to Nigeria was quite insightful. Ditto Her Excellency Gerengbo Yakivu Pascaline, Ambassador of DR Congo to Nigeria. On her part, Her Excellency Mrs. Odette Peterson-Thomas, the High Commissioner of Trinidad and Tobago to Nigeria was particularly excited that an invitation was being extended to the Caribbeans for them to come share their tourism development experience with their kith and kin in Africa. In no less measure, His Excellency Salem Al Shamsi, UAE Ambassador to Nigeria was enthusiastic about the Expo and graciously shared with us brilliant tips on the prospects of stronger and mutually beneficial Africa-UAE cultoural cooperation.

We also benefitted immensely from the wealth of experience of Her Excellency Ms. Mminele, South Africa’s Minister Plenipotentiary in the course of our extensive consultations. There is no denying the fact that South Africa has a lot to offer in this journey. And like so many others, the Bostwana High Commissioner to Nigeria, Her Excellency Philda Nani Kereng has since confirmed her country’s participation in the Expo.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

23

T H I S D AY • TUESDay, AUGUST 5, 2025

FOCUS

How CBN is Building Resilient, Strong Banks in Era of Recapitalisation With eight banks already met the recapitalisation requirements, and others making progress towards meeting the deadline, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) says it will sustain its oversight of the banking system. The move is expected to ensure continued resilience, safety and soundness of the financial system.

Besides, the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) members recently acknowledged the continued stability in the banking system, evidenced by the stable Financial Soundness Indicators (FSIs) which would further be supported by the on-going banking recapitalisation exercise. Precious Ugwuzor reports

N

igerian banks are facing one of their most interesting moments. First, they have been acknowledged by the Central Bank Nigeria (CBN)-led Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) members to be safe and sound.

Secondly, they are also recording giant strides in the pursuit of their recapitalisation, with eight already met the requirement ahead of the March 31, 2026 deadline.

These developments point to sound regulatory oversight, and determination of the Oleyemi Cardoso-led CBN to support government in achieving $1 trillion Gross Domestic Product (GDP) target by 2030.

The Policy Advisory Council report on the national economy, had set an ambitious goal of achieving a GDP of $1 trillion, with clearly defined priority areas and strategies.

It is believed that a well-recapitalised banking sector is undeniably crucial in achieving the GDP growth plan. Hence, Cardoso, advised banks to prepare for a new round of recapitalisation to ensure they have the necessary capital to support the economic growth.

Cardoso asked: “Will Nigerian banks have sufficient capital relative to the financial system’s needs in servicing a $1tr economy in the near future? In my opinion, the answer is “No!” unless we take action. That action was the ongoing recapitalisation of banks, meant to prepare them for expansion and attract big ticket transactions to support economic growth”.

While the recapitalisation exercise continues, the apex bank categorically reassured the public, depositors, and stakeholders that the Nigerian banking sector remains resilient, safe, and sound.

“The CBN affirms that it continues to monitor all financial institutions under its regulatory purview and maintains robust frameworks for early warning signals and risk-based supervision.

These mechanisms ensure that any emerging issues are promptly addressed to protect the integrity of the financial system,” it said.

The CBN remains dedicated to fostering a secure banking environment where depositors can be fully confident in the safety of their funds. It will continue to monitor and adapt strategies to safeguard the financial interests of all Nigerians and stakeholders in the financial system.

What the law says The 2007 Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act mandates the apex bank as one of its objectives to promote financial system stability.

The CBN ensures the safety and soundness of the financial system in Nigeria through banking sector reforms, improved access to finance, adequate institutional capacity building and implementation of good corporate governance practices.

Analysts said ensuring financial and banking system stability is important because the failure of financial institutions, particularly banks, is capable of undermining public confidence, precipitate unanticipated contraction in money supply, reduce savings and investments, and induce payment system collapse with adverse effects on the real economy.

More so, the stability of the financial system is very imperative since its achievement ensures effective monetary policy transmission mechanism.

As such, ensuring financial system stability will help monetary authorities in achieving the primary objective of price stability.

To achieve financial and banking system stability, the CBN at different times had instituted various reforms aimed at ensuring effective performance of the banking sector.

Recapitalisation exercise continues The CBN had, on March 28, 2024 announced a two-year bank recapitalisation exercise which commenced on April 1, 2024.

The recapitalisation plan requires minimum capital of N500 billion, N200 billion and N50 billion for commercial banks with international, national and regional licenses respectively.

Others included merchant banks N50 billion; non-interest banks with national license N20 billion and non-interest banks with regional license will now have N10 billion minimum capital. The 24-month timeline for compliance ends on March 31, 2026.

Cardoso said the recapitalisation policy not only strengthens financial stability but also serves

Cardoso as a catalyst for inclusive growth.

“By enabling banks to extend more credit to MSMEs, we enhance job creation and productivity. Furthermore, with increased capital, banks can invest in technology and innovation, crucial for driving digital financial services such as mobile money and agent banking. These technologies are important to breaking down geographic and economic barriers, bringing financial services to even the most remote areas,” he stated.

He said Nigeria has what it takes to deepen financial inclusion and support the growth of business and economy. He said the recapitalisation exercise will also support the government’s efforts to achieve a $1 trillion economy.

The CBN further underscored the importance of banking recapitalisation as a major catalyst for the achievement of the $1 trillion economy agenda of the government.

“In the same vein, Other Financial Institutions (OFIs) hold significant potential to drive productivity and economic growth by expanding access to credit and financial services for underserved individuals and businesses. To unlock this untapped potential, we aim to strengthen key institutions— particularly Primary Mortgage Banks (PMBs) and Microfinance Banks (MFBs)—to enhance their efficiency and impact.”

“Our strategy includes implementing model mortgage foreclosure laws to stimulate lending and reduce delinquency, integrating PMBs and MFBs into the GSI platform to minimize non-performing loans, and leveraging Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) more effectively to provide increased on lending facilities to well-managed OFIs,” he said.

Banking sector remains robust Under the ongoing recapitalisation programme, the apex bank adopted a distinctive definition of minimum capital base, in addition of paid up share capital and share premium, excluding other reserves and retained profits.

The distinctive definition implied that nearly all banks have to raise new capital, despite the fact that most banks have shareholders’ funds in excess of the minimum capital base.

Cardoso explained that the banking sector remains robust, with key indicators reflecting a resilient system.

“The non-performing loan ratio remains within the prudential benchmark of five per cent, showcasing strong credit risk management. The banking sector liquidity ratio comfortably exceeds the regulatory floor of 30 per cent, a level which ensures banks are maintaining adequate cash flow to meet the needs of customers and their operations. The recent stress test conducted also reaffirmed the continued strength of our banking system,” he said.

“I am pleased to note that a significant number of banks have raised the required capital through rights issues and public offerings well ahead of the 2026 deadline.

I believe that the banking sector is in a strong position to support Nigeria’s economic recovery by enabling access to credit for MSMES and supporting investment in critical sectors of our economy,” he said.

The CBN Deputy Governor, Corporate Services, Ms. Emem Usoro, said the journey to a $1 trillion economy requires structured planning, clearly defined policies, unwavering implementation, and an inclusive approach that aligns public and private sector interests.

Usoro said that one of the key components of the $1 trillion ambition is the recapitalisation of Nigerian banks.

She noted that banks must be sufficiently capitalised to meet the financial demands of a larger and more dynamic economy.

“As we work towards building a $1 trillion dollar economy, we must consider the recapitalisation of our banks to be able to fund, finance and power the economy, and to favourably compete globally,” Usoro said during a media engagement in Abuja.

She further called for a collective effort from all stakeholders, adding that the

We should particularly pay attention to bank recapitalisation to ensure that our banks are strong, resilient and stable enough to carry out financial intermediation, and the much-needed financing of development projects and programmes

financial system must be prepared to play its role in powering development.

“We should particularly pay attention to bank recapitalisation to ensure that our banks are strong, resilient and stable enough to carry out financial intermediation, and the much-needed financing of development projects and programmes,” Usoro said.

The Group Managing Director of United Bank for Africa (UBA), Oliver Alawuba described the ongoing CBN bank recapitalisation policy as both timely and essential in positioning the financial system to meet the demands of a growing and globally competitive economy.

According to Alawuba, the initiative is expected to boost the resilience of the banking sector by strengthening its capacity to withstand economic shocks such as inflation, currency volatility and global geopolitical disruptions. He noted that the policy will also place Nigerian banks on a stronger footing to finance the country’s long-term economic transformation, including funding of large-scale infrastructure and industrial projects.

Alawuba further stressed that the recapitalisation policy goes beyond regulatory compliance. It is a forward-looking strategy aimed at equipping Nigerian banks to operate at the scale and sophistication required by a trillion-dollar economy.

He said the move would enhance the sector’s ability to support traditional economic drivers such as oil and gas, agriculture and manufacturing, as well as emerging sectors such as fintech, green energy and infrastructure development.

“Nigerian banks need adequate capital buffers to meet the evolving demands of these sectors.

Without this, the industry cannot effectively rise to the challenge,” he said.

Alawuba further pointed out the sharp contrast between Nigerian banks and their counterparts in more advanced economies, where bank assets typically range between 70 and 150 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP). In Nigeria, bank assets accounted for just 11.97 per cent of GDP as of 2024, a gap he said must be addressed if the country’s financial system is to align with international standards.

He commended the CBN’s recent directive mandating a significant increase in minimum capital thresholds, describing it as recognition of the urgent need for stronger financial institutions capable of delivering on national priorities such as infrastructure expansion, digital transformation, inclusive financial services and economic diversification.

Alawuba concluded that a robust, well-capitalised banking sector is critical for Nigeria’s aspiration to become a one trillion-dollar economy, and the recapitalisation drive is a forward-looking step to achieve that goal.

According to the Director of the Banking Supervision Department at the CBN, Olubuka Akinwunmi provided insights into the state of the banking sector by stating that banks have so far remained within the prudential thresholds stipulated by the regulator, including benchmarks for capital adequacy ratio and non-performing loans. “Currently, all our banks are still within the prudential thresholds that were set. And they are actively pursuing various recapitalisation efforts,” Akinwunmi said.

On the possibility of mergers and acquisitions, Akinwunmi said such developments may occur naturally as banks assess their positions and seek strategic alignments.

“Banks are currently focused on raising their own capital, but engagements are ongoing and when the opportunities arise, they will be taken,” Akinwunmi added.

Compliance On compliance, the CBN stated that starting in 2025, financial institutions will be required to refine their compliance and governance frameworks to address evolving risks.

“We are enhancing regulatory effectiveness and accountability, as demonstrated by recent changes to our supervisory and enforcement approach.

Recently, penalties totaling N15 billion were imposed on 29 banks for breaches, including AML/CFT violations”.

“In addition to these penalties, the banks are required to address the root causes of the lapses, which is crucial for improving regulatory effectiveness. Historically, the industry has struggled with recurring issues, but we are confident that this approach will help change that narrative”.

24

T H I S D AY • TUESday, AUGUST5, 2025

business/MOnEYGUIDE

Linkage Assurance Reports 50% Revenue Growth, Announces Bonus Issue Ebere Nwoji

Underwriting firm, Linkage Assurance Plc, said it recorded a strong performance across key metrics in the 2024 financial year growing its revenue by 50 per cent. The company, which at its 31st Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Lagos announced a bonus of five for every one share held to shareholders, said the good performance was driven by market expansion and resilient operations despite a challenging business environment.

In the company’s financial results presented to shareholders at the meeting Linkage Assurance reported 50 per cent increase in revenue to N22.2 billion in 2024, compared to N14.84 billion in 2023.

Profit Before Tax (PBT) stood at N5.3 billion in 2024 from N5.5

billion in 2023, a slight decrease of 3 per cent YOY. Linkage Assurance Chairman, Joshua Fumudoh, speaking at the AGM, said that despite headwinds, Linkage Assurance delivered an impressive financial and strategic performance in 2024.

He added that the company also recorded N9.48 billion investment income and other revenues during the year under review, compared to N9.06 billion in the previous year, reflecting a 5 percent increase. Total assets rose to N65.68 billion from N51.33 billion in 2023.

“Such outcomes are not merely numerical milestones; they reflect sound executive management, consistent underwriting discipline, prudent investment practices, and a board-driven culture of corporate governance, Fumudoh stated.

Looking ahead, he said the board would continue to provide governance oversight that fosters resilience, innovation, and longterm shareholder value.

He acknowledged that the road ahead might present challenges but emphasised that Linkage Assurance was well positioned to adapt, compete, and lead.

Meanwhile, shareholders at the meeting approved a bonus issue of one-for-five, amounting to N1, 540, 000,000.00, to be capitalised from the company’s retained earnings in order to strengthen its share capital position.

Shareholders who spoke at the meeting, including Williams Adebayo, Boniface Okezie, Nona Awoh, and Anthony Omojola commended the board and management for the impressive performance during the review period.

The Chief Executive Officer of ND Western, Lanre Kalejaiye and Chief Operating Officer, ‘Karo Ovraiti at OML 34’s 35 million Man-hours Zero LTI celebration held at the Utorogu FLB…recently

MARKET INDICATORS

ND Western Achieves 35m Hours Without Lost Time Injury

Nigerian energy company, ND Western, has said that it recorded 35 million work hours without a Lost Time Injury (LTI), establishing a significant safety milestone that positions it as a leader in workplace safety standards within the country’s energy sector.

The achievement, which spans from June 2016 to present, represents one of the most impressive safety records in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, where operational risks are typically high due to the technical complexity of energy operations.

Speaking on the milestone, the company emphasised that the achievement reflects its commitment to prioritising workers welfare across all

operational levels. ND Western has built what it describes as a “people-first safety framework” that empowers employees to take ownership of their work environments.

The company’s approach centres on comprehensive Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) protocols that include daily hazard assessments and leadership accountability measures. This methodology has enabled the organization to transform safety from a compliance requirement into what management calls a collective responsibility.

“At ND Western, safety isn’t a slogan we tick off during audits. It’s how we think. It’s how we live,” the company stated, noting that the energy

sector presents some of the most technically demanding and risk-intensive working conditions globally.

The safety record has been supported by continuous investment in global best practices and real-time reporting systems designed to enable ongoing improvements. The company’s HSE team works across all departments to create multiple protection layers that address both immediate hazards and long-term safety protocols.

The milestone positions ND Western among the top-performing energy companies in Africa in terms of workplace safety, potentially setting a new benchmark for other operators in the Nigerian energy sector.

H1: Beta Glass Records 63% Revenue Growth, PAT Soars 337% Sunday Ehigiator Beta Glass Plc, a leading manufacturer of glass packaging solutions in West and Central Africa, has posted strong financial results for the first half (H1) of 2025, recording a 63 per cent increase in net sales and an impressive 337 per cent surge in Profit After Tax (PAT), despite Nigeria’s tough macroeconomic environment.

According to the unaudited interim financial statements for the period ended June 30, 2025, the company grew its net sales to N78.2 billion, up from N47.9 billion in the corresponding period of 2024. Operating profit rose to N26.8 billion, marking a 278 per cent increase, while Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization

(EBITDA) reached N30.1 billion, representing a 214 per cent jump and an EBITDA margin of 38 per cent.

Profit after tax stood at N18.7 billion, a 334 per cent increase compared to N4.3 billion recorded in the same period last year. Earnings per share grew significantly to N31.18 from N7.18, also reflecting a 334 per cent rise.

The company attributed the robust performance to growing market demand, strategic operational efficiencies, and effective pricing strategies, despite inflationary pressures and escalating energy costs.

Reacting to the development, the CEO of Beta Glass, Alexander Gendis, noted that, “We are very proud of our half-year results; delivering double-digit

growth in revenue and tripledigit growth in profitability despite a challenging environment. This performance is an affirmation of our market strength across West and Central Africa.”

Gendis also highlighted the company’s ongoing sustainability efforts, including the installation of a solar power plant at its Agbara facility in Ogun State to mitigate rising energy costs and drive long-term efficiency.

Looking ahead, Beta Glass says it remains optimistic for the second half of 2025. The company plans to continue investing in operational excellence, renewable energy, and expanding its product portfolio to sustain growth.

BUA Cement Invests in Sokoto Youths Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto

BUA Cement has launched a Host Community Empowerment Programme aimed at providing training and certification for 60 graduates from its host communities in the operation of heavy-duty machinery.

The programme, which is designed to empower local youth, will equip them with employable skills in heavy-duty machine operation, including driving, repairing, and maintaining

excavators and tippers.

Speaking at the launch event, the Plant Director, Engr.

Aminu Bashir, who represented the Managing Director/CEO, Engr Muhammad Haliru Binji, stated that the six-month training includes comprehensive instruction and certification in heavy-duty machine operations.

He added that the graduates are expected to gain employment either with BUA Cement or other organizations of their choice. Those employed by the company will receive a monthly

allowance of ₦150,000.

Speakers at the event described the initiative as a rare opportunity for participants to acquire valuable skills and secure meaningful employment in today’s competitive job market. One of the graduates , Muhammad Bello, expressed gratitude to BUA Cement for what he described as a life-transforming initiative, praising the impact of the company’s corporate social responsibility efforts on its host communities.

MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS (MILLION NAIRA) Month

NOVEMBER

Money Supply (M3)

108,966,480.44

-- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors

19,796.18

Money Supply (M2)

108,946,684.26 72,672,756.90

-- Narrow Money (M1)

36,273,927.36

---- Currency Outside Banks

4,652,527.74

---- Demand Deposits

31,621,399.62

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

17,347,112.78

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

91,619,367.66

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

115,576,757.67

---- Credit to Government (Net)

39,616,629.91

---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA

0.00

---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA)

0.00

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

75,960,127.77

--Other Assets Net

12,147,461.96

Reserve Money (Base Money)

30,871,571.25

--Currency in Circulation

4,878,125.22

--Banks Reserves

25,993,446.02

--Special Intervention Reserves

278,860.37 • Source - CBN

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) Month

November

Inter-Bank Call Rate

28.88

Minimum Rediscount Rate (MRR) Monetary Policy Rate (MPR)

27.50

Treasury Bill Rate

18.00

Savings Deposit Rate

6.56

1 Month Deposit Rate

8.48

3 Months Deposit Rate

9.53

6 Months Deposit Rate

12.13

12 Months Deposit Rate

14.22

Prime Lending rate

18.39

Maximum Lending Rate

31.06

NSE CAP

NSE MARKET INDEX % Change

0.75%(52%YoY)

• Monetary Policy Rate - 27.50%

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE As At 6TH JANUARY , 2025

The price of OPEC basket of twelve crudes stood at $76.18 a barrel on Monday, compared with $75.89 the previous Friday, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations.

The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

25

T H I S D AY • TUESday, AUGUST5, 2025

mARKET NEWS

Dangote Cement, 46 Others Gain N1.8trn to Push Market Cap Above N91trn Kayode Tokede The Nigerian stock market yesterday began the trading week in positive territory as investors buy interest in Dangote Cement Plc and 46 others gained N1.8 trillion to push the market capitalisation across the N91 trillion threshold.

As Dangote Cement appreciated by 9.22 per cent to

close at N577.00 per share, the Nigerian Exchange Limited All-Share Index (NGX ASI) gained 2,808.73 basis points or 1.99 per cent to close at 144,071.78 basis points from 141,263.05 basis points it opened for trading.

As a result, the NGX ASI Month-to-Date and Year-toDate returns advanced to +three per cent and +40per cent, respectively.

P R I C E S MaiN Board

F O R DEALS

Also, market capitalisation rose by N1.8 billion to close at N91.150 trillion from N89.373 trillion it opened for trading last week.

Investor sentiment, as measured by market breadth, closed positive as 47 stocks advanced, while 23 declined. Lasaco Assurance, Royal Exchange and UPDC emerged the highest price gainer of 10 per cent each to

S E C U R I T I E S Market Price

quantity traded

close at N2.86, N1.65 and 54 kobo respectively, per share.

UACN followed with a gain of 9.97 per cent to close at N97.10, while Sovereign Trust Insurance rose by 9.94 per cent to close at N1.88, per share.

On the other side, Academy Press and Transcorp Power led the losers’ chart with 10 per cent each to close at N9.90 and N288.00

T R A D E D

value traded ( N )

MaiN Board

A S O F

respectively, while John Holts followed with a decline of 9.59 per cent to close at N6.60, per share. TotalEnergies Marketing Nigeria declined by 9.22 per cent to close at N640.00, while Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI) dipped by 9.21 per cent to close at N9.21, per share.

However, the total volume traded fell by 24.8 per cent to 811.096 million units,

valued at N19.472 billion, and exchanged in 35,963 deals. Transactions in the shares of FCMB Group led the activity with 84.949 million shares worth N979.416 million. Universal Insurance followed with an account of 82.512 million shares valued at N61.682 million, while Fidelity Bank traded 45.429 million shares valued at N955.598 million.

AU G U ST / 4 / 2 5 DEALS

Market Price

quantity traded

value traded ( N)

26

TUESDAY, AUGUST 5, 2025 • THISDAY

NEWS

Harnessing Gas for Africa’s Sustainable Future...

L-R: Head Business Development (Gas), Sahara Group, Ifeoma Isichei; Chief Executive Officer, FIPL, Olurotimi Famoroti; Head, Integrated Gas Ventures, Asharami Energy, Mariah Lucciano-Gabriel; Head, Business Performance Management, Sahara Group, Omobolanle Adesulu; Senior Technical Assistant to the Hon. Minister of State Petroleum Resources (Gas), Abel Nsa; Senior Infrastructure Finance Professional, Mobolaji Sunmoni; and Team Lead, Platforms Africa, Dr. Adeola Yusuf, during the Asharami Square event themed ‘Harnessing Gas for Africa’s Sustainable Future’, held recently in Lagos

Keyamo: Lagos Airport Will Undergo Total Reconstruction, Not Refurbishment after Years of Decay Funmi Ogundare

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development , Mr. Festus Keyamo, yesterday stated that Terminal One of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos will be completely pulled down and reconstructed, not merely renovated, as part of a plan to modernise Nigeria’s most critical aviation hub.

In an interview on Prime Time on Arise Television, Keyamo defended the government’s decision, saying that the terminal being reconstructed is not the new terminal two which was recently completed with a Chinese loan.

He stated that rather it is the original terminal one , built in 1979

and untouched since its commissioning under President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration.

“We are not renovating an airport that was recently upgraded,” Keyamo stated. “Terminal One has not been touched since 1979. It is the terminal that handles the bulk of our international traffic, and it is in a total state of decay.”

According to the minister, the terminal suffers from non- functional air conditioning systems, broken carousels and obsolete facilities , which are now being patched with makeshift solutions.

He described the situation as embarrassing and unacceptable for a country seeking serious foreign investment. The minister explained

that the state of the Nigeria’s airport especially Lagos, plays a critical role in the country’s international image and economic attractiveness.

“Foreign investors judge your country from your airport. A healthy country has a healthy airport,” he argued. “67 per cent of all air traffic in Nigeria passes through Lagos. If we want to attract investment in health, education, and infrastructure, the first step is to show we are serious about modern transport systems,” he added.

He also stressed the importance of modern scanning and navigation equipment, saying international airlines including Delta, have raised concerns about outdated infrastructure affecting security and passenger

processing.

Poor airport conditions, he said, can result in higher insurance costs and make Nigeria appear as a high-risk destination.

Keyamo stated that the project involves full-scale reconstruction using the existing foundational structures, but removing everything else including walls, tiles, fittings, and equipment, down to the core skeleton of the building.

“The new facility will be a smart airport fitted with the latest technology in scanning, navigation, communication, and cargo handling.

Airports are not just blocks and cement,” he explained. “They are high-tech infrastructure. What we’re building will meet global standards,”

Labour Party: N712bn Airport Renovation, Clear Sign of Govt’s Wickedness to People Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Labour Party (LP) has described as a sign of wickedness against Nigerians by the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, the federal government’s proposed ₦712 billion ($475 million) renovation of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos.

LP, in a statement, said the “outrageous, insensitive” project was deeply troubling especially coming at a time when “63% of Nigerians – approximately 133 million citizens are classified as multi dimensionally poor, according to the National Bureau of Statistics.

“This is not just wicked; it is

satanic and speaks to a gross disregard for the plight of the masses,” the party said, adding that the APC-led administration is prioritising luxury over the welfare of citizens.

It further bemoaned what it considered government’s lack of empathy in directing funds saved from the removal of subsidy on petroleum, to funding the lifestyles of the rich rather than uplifting the living standards of other Nigerians.

The statement signed by Ken Asogwa, Senior Special Adviser, Media, to the interim national chairman of the party, Senator Nenadi Usman, noted: “To withdraw this lifeline from the poor only to

channel the proceeds into a luxury terminal accessible exclusively to the rich is a new low in governmental wickedness.

“The APC government has completely abandoned all pretence of empathy or sound governance.

One wonders why a project of this nature, with clear commercial viability, could not be executed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

“Even more appalling is the Minister’s disclosure that the socalled Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund, from which this project will be financed, is made up of savings from the removal of fuel subsidy - the only meaningful

benefit the average Nigerian had derived from our God-given fossil fuel resources.”

The statement explained that, “Around the world, terminal buildings are revenue-generating investments. Why not invite private capital, especially when the return on investment is self-sustaining, instead of squandering subsidy savings on an elitist project that benefits a fraction of the population?

“Let us ask: How many Nigerians stripped of the subsidy era benefits even use air travel today? What business do they have with airport terminals when basic transportation, healthcare, and food are now luxuries beyond their reach?”

he said.

Taking a swipe at opposition critics, Keyamo claimed that those questioning the project’s timing or importance do not understand

governance priorities.

“That’s why Nigerians won’t vote for them. They don’t know what it means to attract investment or run a modern economy,” he added.

Tambuwal Moves to Cut Ties with ADC There are strong indications that a former governor of Sokoto State, Senator Aminu Tambuwal, may cut ties with the coalition opposition party, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) any moment from now.

Although the senator is said to still be finding it difficult on how to engage his ADC compatriots and tell them his decision based on the reality in his state, THISDAY gathered that he has resolved to stay back in his Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) following practical political reality.

According to party sources, Tambuwal had thought that former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar would stand down on his presidential bid, leaving the stage for others to freely contest in a fair atmosphere.

But with evident indications that Atiku would contest the ADC presidential ticket, Tambuwal had concluded that he did not stand a chance and therefore, saw no need to trudge on with the ADC. Another equally crucial factor said to have informed Tambuwal’s decision, THISDAY further gathered, was the local politics of Sokoto State, his home base.

Sources disclosed that with the current Sokoto State Governor, Ah-

mad Aliyu, already in cahoots with another former governor and leader of the All Progressives Congress in the state, Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, the calculations did not augur well for Tambuwal.

This, sources explained, meant that all of Tambuwal’s supporters may not go with him to the ADC, a development that could undo his stand in the coalition party and also mess up further his calculations preparatory to the 2027 elections.

In other words, he believes he still stands a better chance staying back in the PDP to unite his supporters and also make his return to the senate a lot easier.

Besides, he is said to be operating with the intel that if he left the PDP, a former governor of the state, Attahiru Bafarawa, might seize the opportunity to return to the party and take over his supporters.

Sources added, as a matter of fact, that his new calculation was why he has not yielded to the instructions of the ADC National Chairman, David Mark, that everyone should resign from their current parties and move to the ADC. However, while the former governor has yet to formally disclose this decision, sources claimed words have started going round in the party on his final decision.

ADC, Group Accuse Kebbi Govt of LASG Sues for Calm from Residents as State Using Judiciary to Silence Opposition Experiences Over 12 Hours Heavy Rainfall Alex Enumah in Abuja

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) Legal Support Forum, alongside a civil rights group, the Centre for Reform and Public Advocacy, yesterday, accused the Kebbi State Government of using the courts to stifle the voices of opposition in the state.

They made the allegation during an interaction with journalists in Abuja, lamenting the alleged use of lower courts, especially the Magistrate Court, to clamp down on over 20 innocent residents.

Head, Legal Services of the Centre, Mr. Kalu Agu, who spoke on behalf of the group, lamented that many political opponents of the state government have been remanded in prison custody over frivolous charges.

While accusing the state government of “weaponising security and judicial apparatus to oppress and intimidate dissenting voices,” the legal practitioner urged all courts within Kebbi State to uphold judicial independence and resist being used as political tools for the oppression of citizens.

According to the group, one Ibrahim Adamu Augie was allegedly arrested unjustly and convicted on false narrations, while Mukhtar Dan Baturiya, was remanded for allegedly airing views considered by the state officials as anti-government.

Meanwhile, Ahmad Tijjani Musa and Ibrahim Bature were said to have incurred the wrath of some state officials for exercising their fundamental right by commenting on public matters.

“These are just a few examples among many. Each represents a violation of constitutionally protected freedoms, a misuse of state power, and a betrayal of public trust.

“The pattern is consistent: citizens who voice dissatisfaction or raise awareness about public issues are targeted by the state machinery, prosecuted on frivolous charges, and punished in a manner designed to suppress broader dissent,” Agu stated.

He claimed that the Centre and the Forum are also in possession of credible reports and firsthand testimonies of several other victims who have suffered prolonged detention, psychological trauma, social stigmatisation, and economic loss as a result of these unlawful actions.

The Lagos State Government on Monday called for calm from all residents of the state as the state has experienced heavy rainfall in the last 12 hours with an assurance that the state has put in place resilient infrastructure to combat flash flooding.

In a statement signed by the State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, he informed residents that a new weather advisory from the Nigerian Metrological Agency on Monday warned of heavy rainfall and thunderstorm for the next three days.

He stated that it is not impossible that some parts of the state may experience flash flooding because of the inability of the major collectors not being able to contain the run-

off resulting from the very heavy rainfalls.

He reminded that the peculiar nature of Lagos as a coastal city and climate change makes it suspectible to vagaries of flash flooding, asking residents not to panic.

He explained to all residents Lagos being a coastal state, with the heavy rainfalls, the level of water in the lagoon is bound to rise and will result in a tidal lock which will prevent discharge from all collectors.

Wahab urged all those living in low-lying areas to be at alert because with the intensity of the rainfall already experienced, many of such areas will encounter flash floods.

According to him all areas that are abutting the rivers and lagoons in

Lagos are also at risk of experiencing flash floods which may come with high currents.

In view of the holiday period that most pupils and students are in now, he called for extra vigilance so that they do not go outside to play under the rain or swim in the flash floods.

The Commissioner also reiterated the earlier advisory to motorists and pedestrians not to wade through floods as there is the tendency that vehicles may be submerged and people swept away with such heavy floods.

He warned residents not to engage in disposing their refuse into the drains as the rains fall, warning that there are consequences for such acts and the refuse will end up blocking the drains and causing flash floods.

27

THISDAY • TUESDAY, AUGUST 5, 2025

NEWS

SEND-FORTH CEREMONY...

L-R: Special Adviser to the Chairman of NDLEA, Col. Yakubu Bako (Rtd.); Representative of the DG DSS, Mr. Isaac Olufemi; Secretary of NDLEA, Shadrach Usman Haruna; Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brigadier General Buba Maruwa (Rtd.); DCG Momodu Sule (Rtd.); his wife, Mrs. Eunice Momodu; and his children, Aisha, Hauwa, and Haneefa, during DCG Momodu’s send-forth party by the leadership of NDLEA in Abuja…recently

Stir in Ekiti Court as Convicts Attempt to Snatch Gun from Judge’s Orderly Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti There was commotion and total chaos in Court 3 of the Ado Ekiti High Court of Justice as suspects already convicted for armed robbery and murder overpowered prison officials and attempted to snatch a gun from the judge’s orderly sending the court room

into chaos and confusion as court officials and onlookers run helter skelter.

The five suspects brought to court yesterday were allegedly aggrieved that they were brought to the court for another offence after they had been convicted and handed the death sentence by two separate courts.

The prisoners showed signs of distress and appeared restless as they were being led into the court room by the prison officials and were venting invectives on the DPP even before their arraignment.

The suspects were initially tried in two separate courts murder and robbery attacks on business

Yar’Adua: I’m Still in APC and Committed to President Bola Tinubu’s Vision, Reforms Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army and leader of the Northern Senators Forum, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua, has denied recent reports suggesting his defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement in Abuja, late Sunday night, the Katsina lawmaker reiterated his loyalty to the ruling party and reaffirmed his full support for the reform agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

The senator, a prominent voice in the upper chamber, clarified that misleading headlines had arisen following the defection of another Katsina senator, Abubakar Sadiq

Yar’Adua, who shared the same surname.

According to the Senator, who chaired the Senate Committee on the Army in the 10th Senate, the media’s failure to draw a clear distinction between individuals with similar names has led to unwarranted speculation and public confusion.

He said, “It is unfortunate that some outlets have blurred the lines between two different individuals simply because of a shared surname.

“I categorically dissociate myself from any decision or commentary suggesting discontent with the APC or President Tinubu’s administration. I remain firmly within the party and committed to its vision

for a better Nigeria.”

He emphasised that personal political decisions made by others should not be misinterpreted as a reflection of wider discontent within the APC. He said, “The resignation of another senator, though regrettable, is an isolated event. It does not signify a broader defection movement or crisis within our party.

“His views are personal and do not in any way reflect my position or that of the Northern Senators Forum,” Yar’Adua said.

Highlighting the achievements of the Tinubu administration, Yar’Adua commended the President’s decisive policy actions and ongoing reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

With over 1.8m Bpd Peak Oil Output in July, Nigeria Inches Towards Meeting 2025 Budget Benchmark

the NUPRC chief stated.

Given the above and with the concerted efforts of all, Komolafe maintained that the presidential mandate on production increase was well within reach.

He emphasised that the commission continues to collaborate with institutions, professional bodies, and training providers to enhance skills development, promote technical excellence, and ensure that NUPRC’s workforce is prepared for the challenges of a low-carbon future.

Komolafe charged the SPE and other industry associations to accept the challenge of manpower and contribute to repositioning the industry through targeted capacitybuilding and engagement with young professionals, in consideration of the fast-evolving global energy landscape.

Since the enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021 (PIA),

the commission, he said, has so far gazetted 21 key regulations, with others at various phases of development. These regulations, according to Komolafe, provide the clarity required to support investment, streamline administration, and align upstream operations with national and global priorities.

He listed some of the regulations that bear directly on the theme of this conference, to include: The Upstream Petroleum Measurement Regulations to promote transparency and accountability through technology deployment for accurate production measurement; the Gas Flaring, Venting and Methane Emissions Regulations, which directly support sustainability by tackling emissions and entrenching decarbonisation and the Host Community Development Regulations, which enhance social inclusion and local participation in the energy value chain.

Others included: The Domestic Gas Delivery Obligation Regulations, which improve energy access and strengthen the local supply chain; the Upstream Petroleum Safety Regulations, which ensure safe operations and workforce protection; and the Decommissioning and Abandonment Regulations set clear standards for responsible end-of-life asset management.

These instruments, according to Komolafe, demonstrate the commission’s commitment to creating a regulatory environment that fosters innovation, secures long-term value, and ensures the responsible stewardship of Nigeria’s upstream resources.

In another breadth, he stated that the NUPRC is implementing the Upstream Oil & Gas Decarbonisation & Sustainability Blueprint anchored on seven critical pillars to signal direction for industry sustainability.

operators in the state capital and the two courts condemned them to death in the separate hearings.

A High Court sitting in AdoEkiti on 30th April 2025 sentenced the five men to death by hanging for armed robbery.

Delivering judgment, Justice O.O. Olatawura held that the five defendants were found guilty of conspiracy, murder, and armed robbery.

The offences were committed by the convicts on 18 August 2021, at Agogo Street, Ilupeju Avenue, Odo-Ado, Ado-Ekiti, where they robbed Ajiboye Olajide, Lateef Temidayo Busari, and Akeem Isiaka of their money, laptop computers, mobile phones, and other valuables.

During the course of the robbery, the convicts also murdered the local night guard, identified as Joseph Blessing.

The five men were subsequently arrested and charged with conspiracy, murder, and armed robbery, contrary to Section 516A of the Criminal Code Law, Cap. C16, Laws of Ekiti State, 2012; Section 319 of the same law; and Section 1(2)(a) of the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) Act, Cap. R11, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.

The Director of Public Prosecutions, Julius Ajibare, prosecuted the case on behalf of Ekiti State, calling four witnesses and tendering 13

exhibits before the court to prove the charges.

Adeyinka Opaleke represented the defendants. Each of the accused persons gave evidence in their own defence but called no additional witnesses.

After thoroughly evaluating the evidence presented, the court ruled that the prosecution had proven the charges of armed robbery, murder, and conspiracy against all five defendants beyond reasonable doubt.

Justice Olatawura consequently convicted all the defendants and sentenced them to death by hanging for armed robbery and murder and to 21 years’ imprisonment for conspiracy While preparing for the appearance, the suspects started making threats on the DPP Mr. Julius Akinbare.

“We will look for your house and kill you and your family. We are dead already. Why bring us here again?” they queried.

The presiding judge, Justice Ogunyemi sensing tension quickly stood up to retire into the judges chamber and almost immediately one of the suspects who was earlier handcuffed suddenly lunged at the judge police orderly dragging his pistol and surprisingly his cuffs were already removed.

The scuffle led to chaos as court officials, lawyers and other people

who had business in the court room ran for dear life.

The other suspects joined their colleague in trying to disarm the orderly and overpowered the unarmed prison wardens in the court room Efforts by the Barristers to call on the armed units of the correctional centre outside the court proved abortive as the armed units closed the court room doors endangering the lives of the people in the court room.

It took the timely intervention of the men of the Rapid Response squad who finally came to subdue the convicts and ensure others were saved.

Another drama took place in the court premises when the driver of the vehicle conveying the prisoners was no where to be found which made court officials to alleged conspiracy of the prison wardens.

The court premises became charged as business in the court was brought to an abrupt stop and normalcy finally returned when the prisoners were finally removed from the court.

Barrister Awoniyi was amongst those who sustained minor injuries after he was punched by one of the suspects while the state of the orderly has not been ascertained.

The court immediately closed down hearing for the day, bringing court activities to a halt.

APC : ADC, el -Rufai Confused and Clueless Abdulahi: Ruling Party Weaponising Personal Attacks clear that the party would rather shadowbox in the news than face the consequences of its failures.”

ADC added, “Perhaps, nowhere is this failure more devastating than in the area of national security. The latest security report from Enough is Enough and SBM Intel covering April to June 2025 reveals a harrowing reality.

“Over 3,100 Nigerians have been killed within three months. That is more than 30 citizens per day.

Among them were 1,865 civilians, 82 soldiers, and 39 police officers.

These are not just numbers.

“These are human lives, entire communities destroyed, and families left to mourn. Yet the APC continues to peddle press statements filled with rhetoric while Nigerians are being slaughtered in

their homes, on their farms, and on our nation’s highways.

“It is within this context that the APC now seeks to deflect criticism by launching personal attacks against Mallam El-Rufai.

We are not surprised. It is easier to insult those who speak truth than to address the truths being spoken.

But let it be said once and for all that all ADC leaders, including Mallam El-Rufai are fully capable of defending their records.”

The ADC spokesman said, “What they will not allow is for their names to be dragged into the mud by a failed party like the APC that is desperate to escape accountability. These attacks are a sideshow. The real issue is that the APC has no answers for the chaos it has unleashed.

“As we move toward 2027, one thing must be made clear. The next election will simply be a referendum on the APC’s performance in office.

It will be about whether Nigerians feel safer, richer, and more hopeful than they did four years ago.

“And on that front, the APC has a steep — if not impossible — hill to climb. This government promised renewed hope. What it has delivered is recycled failure. It cannot run from that record, no matter how loud it shouts.

“In the end, governing a nation is not a theatre performance. It is about competence, courage, and accountability. The APC has had more than enough time to show what it can do. That is the real story.

And no amount of name-calling will change it.”

28

TUESDAY, AUGUST 5, 2025 • THISDAY

NEWS

ORGANISED PRIVATE SECTOR/NACCIMA INTERACTIVE SESSION...

L-R: Past President, NBCC and Chairman NACCIMA Strategy Committe, Dapo Adelegan; President NACCIMA and Chairman OPS Group, Jani Ibrahim; Hon. Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun; Dep. DG NASSI, Omowunmi Obidiran; and DG NACCIMA, Sola Obadimu, at an Organised Private Sector/NACCIMA interactive session with the Minister in Abuja... recently

Dangote Cement’s New Ivory Coast Plant to Produce 3m Tons Per Year Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Africa’s biggest cement producer plans to open a new plant in Ivory Coast to capitalise on a construction

boom in one of the continent’s fastest-growing economies, Bloomberg reported yesterday.

The 3 million-metric-ton-per-year plant, which will boost Dangote

Cement Plc’s total capacity to 55 million metric tons, is nearly complete and set to begin production this year, a company spokesman said.

Ivory Coast’s construction market

is projected to grow at a compound annual rate of 9.6 per cent between 2025 and 2032, according to Data Bridge Market Research. The West African nation’s infrastructure

investments include energy and logistic projects.

Ivory Coast will be the 10th country where Dangote Cement operates outside its home market

Husband Demands Justice over Nurse Murdered in Abuja School Premises Parents, neighbours lament security lapses, want immediate closure Proprietor allegedly absconds as police parade suspect

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The tragic death of Mrs. Patricia Chinyere Anaele, a school nurse at Clear Hope Foundation Academy in Dawaki, Bwari Area Council of the FCT, has taken a disturbing turn, with her grieving husband alleging she was murdered by security personnel assigned to the school.

Speaking with journalists yesterday in front of the shuttered school, the husband of the deceased, Emmanuel Anaele, declared that his wife was never abducted.

“She was outrightly murdered within the school premises alongside a 14-month-old baby who was in her care,” Anaele insisted.

He said, “What happened was premeditated. My wife was killed right inside the school by its security staff. Her body, along with the innocent child’s, was wheeled out and dumped in a canal.”

He revealed that one of the school’s security personnel, David Moses, confessed to the crime after

turning himself in at the FCT Police Command, implicating a second suspect, one “Sunday”, who is currently on the run.

The tragic incident reportedly occurred on July 23, 2025, when the two suspects allegedly murdered both victims and collected a ransom of N3 million.

David later surrendered to police following a disagreement over how the ransom should be shared.

At the FCT Police Command, Moses reportedly confessed to the heinous crime in the presence of Commissioner of Police, Ajao Adewale, stating that he and his accomplice had initially staged the murder as a kidnapping-for-ransom plot.

However, Anaele maintained yesterday that the kidnapping narrative was a smokescreen.

He said, “This was no kidnap. The facts point to cold-blooded murder.

What kind of school allows such people to be in charge of security?

“Since the incident, the school

proprietor, Dr. Abu Alasa, who also owns Kings Care Hospital, has not reached out to me or the bereaved parents of the child. This silence speaks volumes,” he further alleged.

He alleged that Dr. Alasa used his influence to suppress the investigation, allegedly pressuring police officers to downplay the incident.

Anaele said, “I am calling on the FCT Minister and Police authorities to ensure this matter is not swept under the carpet.

“My wife has gone, but if this school is allowed to continue operating unchecked, another tragedy is inevitable. Another child will die if justice is not served,” he warned.

The grieving father also alleged that the structure housing the school was originally designed to be a commercial plaza and was converted into an academic facility without the proper security infrastructure or oversight.

His sentiment was echoed by several concerned parents and neighbours, who were at the school’s

Flood Sacks Anambra Community, Farmers Lament as Farms Submerged, Crops Destroyed David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka Rampaging flood has sacked indigenes of Ogbaru community in Anambra State, submerging their farms and destroying crops.

Residents of the area who are mostly farmers are lamenting their loss, saying they borrowed to fund this year’s planting season, all of which have been washed away by the flood.

Ogbaru is a riverine local government area in Anambra State, situated on the banks of the River Niger,

bordering Delta and Rivers States.

This year’s flood will not be the first time Ogbaru would be submerged. In previous years, the area - from Ossomala to Obeagwe, Akili Ogidi, Ogwuikpele, Ogwuaniocha and others are usually under waters during the rainy season.

Chief of Staff to Hon Afam Ogene, the member representing the area in the House of Representatives, Hon Chinedu Uwollor who conducted journalists round by the area said this year’s flood is one of the most devastating, and has left

indigenes of the area in trauma.

He called for assistance for the famers in the area, saying that most of them borrowed to fund this year’s farming season, but their hopes have been dashed by the early flood.

During a tour of the area, some of the affected farmers said they have resorted to early harvest to save what they can from their farms.

Mr. Adimali Nwachukwu, a yam and cassava farmer in Ogwuikpele, expressed his deep pain and anguish, narrating his ordeal.

premises yesterday.

For instance, Mr. Femi Emmanuel, a parent whose child also attends the school, revealed that he and his wife had considered withdrawing their child from the crèche due to what he described as “substandard care and lax security”.

Many residents in the Dawaki area also expressed outrage, alleging that the school had long operated

in a manner that endangers pupils and staff alike.

They have now petitioned the FCT Administration to permanently shut the school down.

“The community is devastated.

We can’t pretend this is an isolated case. If the school continues to operate, we are simply waiting for the next victim,” said a neighbour who preferred to remain anonymous.

of Nigeria, the Bloomberg report added.

The company, owned by Africa’s richest person, Aliko Dangote, has made Nigeria self-sufficient in cement production and exports clinker — an intermediate product in the production of cement — to countries across the continent.

It’s looking to open a sixmillion-ton capacity plant in Itori, southwest Nigeria in 2027 and raise $400 million in the Ethiopian financial market to expand a second production line in the Horn of Africa nation, Acting Chief Financial Officer, Gbenga Fapohunda, said last week.

The firm’s closest rival in Nigeria, BUA Cement Plc, has a production capacity of 17 million tons per annum, Bloomberg noted.

The cement maker had long been the foundation of Dangote’s business empire and wealth, until he built a 650,000-barrels-a-day oil refinery outside Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub, which became operational last year.

Dangote’s wealth is valued at $28.5 billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.

Gwagwalada Teaching Hospital Witnessing Over 650 Patients Influx Daily, Says CMD PENGASAN assist indigent patients

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The University of Abuja Teaching Hospital in Gwagwalada said it is having a daily influx of over 650 patients coming to receive treatment at its facility.

Established in 1992 as a specialist hospital under the Federal Capital Development Authority, the Teaching Hospital said it now serves as both secondary and tertiary health institution covering the growing health needs of the residents of Capital Territory and other states bordering the city.

Acting Chief Medical Director of the Teaching Hospital, Prof. Bob Ukonu, spoke of the situation in hospital on Monday while receiving a team from the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) who were on a medical outreach programrme to assist indigent patients in the hospital.

Ukonu spoke of the challenges facing the hospital which includes shortage of hospital personnel to attend to growing number of patients trooping to the facility for medical care.

On the average, he said that Gwagwalada Teaching Hospital receives, “close to 500 Out-patients and over 150 others on admission daily.

“This number differs because there are those who are coming as an outpatient, averagely, on a daily basis, you see close to 500 outpatients and over 150 patients on admission daily.

“The hospital’s manpower has been stretched, and that is why you can see people crying out to government, please we need more recruitment.

We need more waivers.

“You know, with the Japa syndrome, a whole lot has left.

Government has been doing a lot in terms of replacing them but more needed to be done,” he said.

Ukonu said there are so many indigent patients flooding the hospital by the reason of its location, being in the rural, semi rural or semi urban.

The Chairman of PENGASAN Foundation, Comrade Owen David said the Foundation was on a mission to empathize with the patients and to assist indigent ones with payment of their hospital bills.

He said that the Foundation has

earlier made similar visits to the General Hospitals in Karshi, Bwari in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT and plans to also go the General Hospital in Nyanya in Abuja.

On the whole, David said the Foundation will be spending over N15 million in payment of hospital bills for poor patients in the affected hospitals.

“Mostly, we try to touch lives of those who cannot pay for their treatment so that, you know, the women, children, some of them don’t have, literally, the children. So, we try to get to those people that this thing can actually reach out to them.

We equally visited the male ward to extend our assistance David who was accompanied by the Secretary of the Foundation and Chairperson of PENGASAN Women Commission (PWAC), Engr.

Ada Mbanaso and other members visited the Paediatrics Ward, Male orthopaedic ward, Gynaecology, Male orthopaedic ward and female surgical ward at the Gwagwalada Teaching Hospital to sympathize with indigent patients receiving treatment.

tuesday august 5, 2025 • T H i s d ay

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NEWS

ENHANCED SOCIAL SECURITY, PRODUCTIVITY ON THEIR MINDS…

L–R: Board Chairman, Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Hon. Olushola Olofin; Chairman, Senate Committee on Employment, Labour and Productivity, Senator Diket Satso Plang; Minister, Federal Ministry of Labour, Employment and Productivity, Alhaji Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, NSITF, Oluwaseun Mayomi Faleye; Chairman, House Committee on Labour, Employment and Productivity, Hon. Adegboyega Adefarati, and Member, House of Representatives, Hon. Peter Aniekwe, during the NSITF retreat for Senate and House Committees on Labour, Employment and Productivity in Lagos…yesterday

Benue Group Raises the Alarm over Alleged Hijack of ADC by David Mark Obidient Movement complains to Obi over ADC marginalisation

Chuks Okocha inAbuja and Folalumi Alaran inAbuja

The Benue Concerned Democrats (BCD), has raised strong objections over what they described as a political hijack of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) by former Senate President, Senator David Mark, under the guise of a purported “Coalition for 2027.”

In a statement issued yesterday,

the BCD Convener, Idoha Audu authoritarian political playbook.

Anuga said: “Nigerians must Anuga, condemned what he termed “recycled opportunism” not forget who David Mark masquerading as leadership, truly is. He is no democrat. accusing Mark and his allies of His anti-democratic credentials attempting to manipulate the ADC are etched in history, beginning to return to political relevance.

According to the BCD, Mark’s return to politics through the ADC under a new coalition is Folalumi Alaran in Abuja a dangerous attempt to relaunch what they described as a failed and The Director-General, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Lanre Issah-onilu, has disclosed that politically exposed Nigerians are using internet fraudsters, popularly known as Yahoo boys, as tools non-members across the bank.

“Our administration will focus to launder illicit funds and on continuous learning and skill development to equip our members with the cutting-edge knowledge needed to thrive in Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan today’s fast-evolving financial services landscape,” Onuoha stated. The crisis rocking the All A chartered accountant, data Progressives Congress (APC) science expert, and anti-money in Ibadan North Federal Constituency yesterday took laundering specialist, Onuoha another dimension as six also pledged to build on the aspirants under the platform achievements of previous of the party rejected the party’s leadership while reinforcing the strategic alliance between ICAN and Fidelity Bank.

“We will deepen the synergy Ibrahim Oyewale inLokoja between Fidelity Bank and ICAN as a foundation for a resilient financial Kogi State Commissioner for ecosystem. We also aim to grow the Health, Dr. Abdulazeez Adeiza, chapter’s membership by attracting has described breastfeeding as the more chartered accountants, thereby fundamental aspect of motherhood enriching the intellectual capital of that has been a cornerstone of the bank,” Onuoha added. human development for centuries.

Adeiza also stated that through collaboration between the Ministry

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Fidelity Bank chapter, has inaugurated Mr. Audifax Onuoha as its new chairman at the chapter’s 4th Investiture and Patron Conferment Ceremony held at Fidelity Bank’s Head Office, Fidelity Place, Lagos.

The investiture also witnessed the formal inauguration of the 2025-2027 Executive Committee.

The new Chairman, Onuoha, who currently serves as Group Head, Compliance Risk Management at Fidelity Bank Plc, succeeded Mr. Victor Abejegah, the bank’s Chief Financial Officer.

In his acceptance speech, Onuoha expressed a firm commitment to strengthening the technical capacity of ICAN members and

not with the people, but with the enemies of democracy.

“In Benue South, his political legacy reeks of rigging, intimidation, and manipulation.

The most infamous being his

fraudulent “victory” over the popular young Alhaji Usman Abubakar in a senatorial contest many still remember as one of the worst electoral daylight robberies in Benue history.

FG: Politicians Using ‘Yahoo boys’ for Money Laundering

Onuoha Becomes ICAN Fidelity Bank Chapter Chair

KayodeTokede

with his shadowy support for the discredited Association for Better Nigeria (ABN), the political hit squad used by Arthur Nzeribe to sabotage the June 12 mandate of Chief MKO Abiola. Mark stood

undermine Nigeria’s financial system.

Issah-onilu stated this in Abuja yesterday at a National Joint Security Press Briefing, noting that cordial relationship exists between yahoo boys and politically exposed Nigerians, hence the need for raids across the country by

the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and other security agencies to curb money laundering.

“We must also acknowledge when people complain of EFCC going after yahoo boys and things like that. People have not understood the nexus that exists between the

yahoo boys and people who are politically exposed using the yahoo boys for money laundering.

“So when they go after yahoo boys, it’s not just the yahoo boys, they are important leads to actually prosecuting the people who are politically exposed.” he said.

Oyo By-election: Blame Dalori, Adelabu if APC Loses, Aspirants Warn choice for the forthcoming by-election scheduled for August 16.

The aspirants, while addressing journalists at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre, Iyaganku, Ibadan, said the former acting National Chairman of the

party, Bukar Dalori and Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, should be blamed if the party loses the election.

An aide to former governor, late Senator Abiola Ajimobi, Saheed Aderounmu, who spoke on behalf of the other

five aspirants, said they stand united against what they termed ‘alleged imposition’ of Adewale Olatunji as the candidate of the party for the by-election, calling on the National Secretariat of the party to resolve the crisis within 48-hours.

‘Breastfeeding, Fundamental Aspect of Motherhood’ of Health and Kogi State Primary nurturing those benefits for both reason. It’s packed with nutrients, Healthcare Development Agency (KPHCDA), the state has achieved an impressive rate of 32 percent compliance in breastfeeding and child malnutrition.

He explained that breastfeeding” is a natural act which is more than just feeding; it’s a profound expression of love, care, and

mother and child in countless ways.

Adeiza disclosed this while speaking at a press conference to commemorate the 2025 Breastfeeding Day at his office in Lokoja.

The commissioner noted that breast milk is often referred to as liquid gold, and for good

antibodies, and hormones that are perfectly tailored to meet the needs of a growing baby.

“Breastfeeding has been shown to reduce the risk of infections, allergies, and diseases in infants, while also promoting healthy brain development and a strong bond between mother and child.

Police Arrest Seven for the Murder of Legal Practitioner in Rivers Blessing Ibunge inPortHarcourt

Operatives of the Rivers State Police Command have arrested seven suspects in connection with the murder of one Bright Owhor, a Port Harcourt based legal practitioner.

Confirming the arrest yesterday, the Command spokesperson, SP

Grace Iringe-Koko, narrated that Owhor was killed by gunmen in July this year, along Rumuomasi, Port Harcourt.

She revealed that operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit during investigation made the arrest.

Iringe-Koko also revealed the arrested suspects to include: “Prince

Samuel (30) armed operative, Daniel Godwin (25) driver of the getaway vehicle; Henry Peter (24) arm supplier, and he was the one that shot the victim; Godfrey Emmanuel (30) gang leader; Chukwu Nneji (34), Justice Dimkpa (27); and Promise Wikere (22) handler of stolen vehicles.”

The police spokesperson said:”Following the tragic killing of Barrister Bright Owhor, 46 years, of No. 40c Market Road, Rumuomasi, Port Harcourt, by unidentified gunmen on July 6, 2025, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit were deployed to investigate and bring the perpetrators to justice.”

Ekiti Lawmakers Hail Cavista Holdings Agric, Tourism Investments

GbengaSodeindeinAdoEkiti

A leading governorship aspirant in Ekiti State chapter of People Democratic Party (PDP), Otunba Emmanuel Fayose, has written to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the state of roads in the state.

In another development, Ekiti State Caucus in Nigeria’s House of Representatives have commended Cavista Holdings for its significant contributions to agriculture and tourism during a recent visit to two of the company’s flagship investments — Agbeyewa Farms

and the Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Centre In a letter, copy of which was made available to newsmen, Otunba Fayose lamented the condition of the various roads spread across the state with a call for the government at the centre to declare emergency

with a view to fixing them.

Apart from Mr. President, Otunba Fayose also copied Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, Governor BiodunAbayomi Oyebanji; senators and members of the House of Representatives from the state at the National Assembly.

tuesday august 5, 2025 • T H i s d ay

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NEWSxtra

Osun Governor Explains Travel Costs Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has expressed a commitment to transparency and accountability in managing the state’s finances, as the travel costs being pushed around represent nearly the full-year’s training allocation for the over 100 agencies of the state government.

He stated that he also invited the public to note that a full breakdown of the state travelling cost showed that the amount connected directly to the governor is very negligible, as he mostly footed his expenses through the family’s private jet, as in the case of his current visit to the United States.

The spokesperson to the Governor, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, clarified that many agencies undertook their local and international training in the

first half of the year because of anticipated kick-off of pre-2026 political activities in the latter part of the year, adding that the ‘opposition’s sponsored’ reports about international traveling and training expenditures are not only misleading but also mischievous.

He said: “The sponsored publication is a failed attempt by the opposition to misrepresent and mischaracterise the muchneeded expenditure on local and international training programmes for public servants, service-wide facility maintenance costs, and several critical overhead expenses across over 100 government agencies. The fact that the state government posted those details on her website confirms that there is no foul play or misapplication of state funds.”

Olawale disclosed further that the amount quoted

for international travels and trainings for the first two quarters of 2025 is the expenditure of the entire officials of the state government, including commissioners, agency heads, management staff of state owned tertiary institutions, Permanent Secretaries, directors of over 100 parastatals which covers their transportation, accommodation, feeding among others.

“The governor is only the head of the government; there are several other sectorial heads and career officers whose expenditures on travels and training make up the state government expenditure. So it is incorrect to say Governor Adeleke spent so much on traveling. Also, one has to probe the importance of these travels and trainings and the value they bring to the state now and in the future,” Olawale said.

Ayeyemi expressed his concern after conducting journalists round his ongoing expansive N3billion hotel projects at Obada, Abeokuta in Ogun State.

The hotel, known as Feliza Hotel and Suites, which sits on two hectares of land, when completed, will boast of 62 rooms, four event halls of different capacities, swimming pool, central air-conditioner, and other facilities.

The Ogun State-born entrepreneur, however, said that despite identified challenges, there is a strong need to join forces with the government in developing

the country.

He identified the need for Nigerians in diaspora to contribute their quota, particularly in the area of poverty reduction through job creation.

Ayeyemi explained that he started the project in 2017, and it was to complement the efforts of the government in job creation and poverty reduction.

He added that over 300 workers are currently working on the site and that by October, when the project, which is currently 80 percent completed, will be inaugurated, nothing less than 100 people or more will be gainfully employed.

allegedly working against the dictates of the Kano State Land Act. According to them, “The government’s unpopular ‘Sledge Hammer’ concentrated largely in Sabon Gari, an enclave predominantly dominated by non-natives.

“We have been paying tenancy fees and rates to Fagge LGA on a mutual understanding, without hassles, over the years.

“The tenancy rates and fees were below N5000, until 2024 when they increased to N15,000 for downstairs and N20,000 for upstairs per annum. We complied and paid without complaining.

“But to our consternation,

in 2025, they brought some individuals, posing as consultants to Fagge LGA under the nomenclature of AAJ Consultancy Firm, who hiked the tenancy rates and fees to over N1 million.”

The statement further stated that: “The state Ministry of Land, through what they call Kanjis, also demanded over N1.6 million annual rates and fees from landlords on the same property the Fagge Local Government Area is collecting tenancy rates and fees.”

The association, however, appealed to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and other relevant authorities to quickly intervene before the situation snowballed into anarchy.

in Bauchi State.

THISDAY observed that U-Report is UNICEF’s community for young people and by young people, where they can raise their voices on issues that matter to them, get trusted information, and take action in their communities.

Active in more than 90 countries, U-Report uses digital technologies and real-time insights to shape policies and decisions in communities, countries, and around the world, working side-by-side with young people every step of the way.

During the training session for U-Reporters on childsensitive budgeting held

at Hazibal Suites Bauchi yesterday, the Social Policy Specialist at the UNICEF Bauchi Field Office, Dr. Yusuf Auta, in a paper presentation titled: ‘Concept of Child-Focused Budgeting’, emphasised that budgets are the most powerful tools available to governments to invest in children and reduce poverty and inequality.

According to him, “Budgeting or children is not just a financial decision; it is a moral and social responsibility, which ensures the delivery of essential services like quality education, healthcare, nutrition, safe drinking water, and social welfare to every child.”

‘Why Nigerians Abroad Fear to Invest at Home’ James Sowole in Abeokuta

A Canadian-based Nigerian entrepreneur, Mr. Oluwafemi Ayeyemi, has identified insecurity and poor infrastructure as two major problems scaring Nigerians away from coming back home to invest.

The entrepreneur, who noted that investment opportunities abound in Nigeria, said the problems of infrastructural deficit like water supply, electricity, motorable roads, and above all insecurity, have always created problems in the minds of Nigerians in terms of investment in the country.

Kano Business Owners Lament Multiple Taxation, Tenancy Fees

Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

Business owners and the L a n d l o rd s / C a re t a k e r s Association in Kano State have expressed concerns over the exorbitant tenancy fees and multiple taxation imposed on them by the state government.

Most of the businesses owned by non-indigenes in Sabon Gari area of Kano State have been displaced from their legitimate businesses following the closure of their shops since last week.

In a statement signed by the Chairman and Secretary of the association, Chief Basil Ulasi, accused Fagge Local Government Area and the state Ministry of Land of

UNICEF, U-Reporters Harp on Child-friendly Budgeting

Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Bauchi Field Office, has organised a capacity-building training programme for 25 young people in Bauchi State on child-focused budgeting and advocacy, with a call on governments at all levels to place children’s needs at the heart of national development by prioritising child-focused budgetary allocations.

This was as the U-Reporters, who participated in the training, pledged to advocate more actively for child-friendly budgeting to enhance the lives of children and young people

31

THISDAY • TUESDAY, AUGUST 5, 2025

TUESdaysports

Group Sports Editor: Duro Ikhazuagbe Email: duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com

0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY

Ademola Lookman Boycotts Training to Force His Exit from Atalanta Duro Ikhazuagbe

Ademola Lookman’s transfer to another club this summer window has taken a new dimension as the Super Eagles forward has boycotted training following Atalanta’s refusal to accept two bids from Inter Milan.

According to reports out of Bergamo, Italy, Lookman who at the weekend handed in a transfer request to Atalanta after the Serie A side have turned down bids, does not want to be part of the preseason as his mind is made to leave.

Although he has continued to train on his own, Atalanta are now expected to bring the hammer down on the Nigerian player.

Lookman took to social media yesterday to express his disappointment, stressing that there was a gentleman’s agreement that he will transfer this summer when an acceptable offer comes.

However, Atalanta CEO, Luca Percassi, dismissed Lookman’s post, insisting that the 2023 UEFA Europa League champions are not disposed to selling him to a rival Italian Serie A club.

He added that it is Atalanta that will decide who to sell to and not Lookman.

A report in top Italian news outlet, La Gazzetta dello Sport,quoted Atalanta as insisting that any so-called ‘gentleman’s agreement’ reached with Lookman last season was specifically centred around a transfer to a foreign club and not a domestic rival like Inter Milan.

The transfer saga of Lookman dates back to the end of the 2023/24 campaign when, fresh from a stunning season capped by a Europa League final hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen, Lookman attracted attention from top clubs in Europe including PSG.

TRANSFER NEWS

It was during this period that Atalanta and Lookman came to

a mutual understanding that the club would entertain foreign offers that met their valuation. Amongst clubs reportedly interested in the Nigerian star player include; Arsenal,

Manchester United, Liverpool and Atletico Madrid but only Inter Milan have taken concrete steps to sign him with two rejected offers now.

Home-based Eagles to Kickstart CHAN 2025 with Eyes on Tinubu’s Dollars

Duro Ikhazuagbe

Ademola Lookman...boycotts training to force his exit from Atalanta

Nigeria’s Home-based Eagles will kickoff their quest to be part of the ‘dollar rains’ that the country’s athletes have been enjoying under the President Bola Tinubu’s Presidency, when they take on defending champions Senegal in the opening match of Group B of the 8th African Nations Championship (CHAN) in Zanzibar.

Super Falcons and Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress are the two beneficiaries of the largesse from the President following their successes at the delayed 2024 WAFCON in Morocco and the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket Championship just concluded in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire on Sunday.

Both teams were showered with National Honours, dollars and houses.

The Home-based Eagles have never won the tournament since it was introduced 16 years ago by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The best Nigeria have ever attained is as runners-up in the 2018 edition they lost to Morocco in the final.

Before then, the Late Stephen Keshi won a bronze at the 2014 edition hosted by South Africa.

This is the country’s history that this 2025 generation will want to

surpass with Franco-Malian Eric Sekou Chelle in charge of the team.

Of course, the team will need to, first, qualify from the group also having Congo and Sudan in addition to the Cup Holder Senegal.

Already, Chelle has spoken of belief and self-confidence among his 23-man squad, who spent three weeks at a training camp in Ikenne-Remo and another 10 days in Zanzibar (to which was embedded two drawn matches against the Zanzibar National Team).

Chelle still has goalkeeper Ozoemena Ani, defenders Sodiq Ismaila and Junior Nduka, midfielder Alex Oyowah and forwards Anas Yusuf and Sikiru Alimi – who were in the squad that turned back Ghana’s Black Galaxies 3-0 on aggregate in the qualifiers.

There are also excellent additions like Steven Mayo and Leonard Ngenge in the defence, Adedayo Olamilekan, Hadi Haruna and Michael Tochukwu in the midfield, and Temitope Vincent, Shola Adelani and Godwin Obaje in the attack.

At the 15,000-capacity Amaan Stadium this evening (6pm), Chelle will go for the maximum points to underscore Nigeria’s ambition, as well as to diminish anxiety ahead of the clashes with Sudan and Congo.

This is one game tough to call.

Super Falcons Victory Will Attract More Girls to Football, Says Sam Okwaraji Foundation Scribe The Secretary of Samuel Okwaraji Foundation, Chidozie Achonwa, has described the recent WAFCON victory by the Super Falcons as a testament that the girl-child can perform well in any field of human endeavor when given the necessary encouragement and support.

He stressed that the victory will ensure more female participation in football.

The Okwaraji Foundation scribe stated this when he appeared on a Federal Radio of Nigeria (FRCN) Programme held at the Radio House, Garki, Abuja.

The Super Falcons a fortnight ago came from two goals down to defeat hosts Lionesses of Morocco to lift the trophy a record 10th time.

Achonwa said that the Nigerian ladies deserve all the commendations for doing the country proud in the continental showpiece.

According to him, the victory is a clarion call on government at all levels and corporate organisations to pay more attention to sports development among the girl-child because they’ve shown that they have what it takes to put the country’s name in the world sports map.

“First of all, I must give kudos to the Super Falcons for doing the country proud in Morocco.

Their determination even when they were two goals down is an evidence of the ‘never die’ attitude of an average Nigerian and I urge

them to keep it up.

“There’s no doubt that this victory will help reduce the stereotype among parents that football is not for girls and having seen the huge reward they got from President Bola Tinubu, they’ll now start encouraging their female children, knowing fully well that they can become bread winners of their family through football.

On how sports in the country can move forward, he advocated a comprehensive grassroots football development. “There is no denying the fact that grassroots sports development is what the country need now to change the narratives about poor performances of our athletes at international competitions.

Dynaspro’s Nigerian Youth Team Shines on UK Tour

Despite Nigeria’s vast sporting potential, its football achievements on the global stage remain underwhelming. This was the view of David Shepherd, Managing Director of Amazing Sports Tours and founder of the Manchester Cup summer football tournament.

Over the weekend in Manchester, a youth team assembled

by Lagos-based Dynaspro Sports Promotion impressed with a 1–1 draw against Bolton FC’s U-16 side and a resounding 8–2 victory over Bradford FC. Speaking after the matches, Shepherd commended the raw talent of the Nigerian players. “The

natural ability of kids from Nigeria is remarkable. They’re highly skilled and athletic. The difference is that here in the UK, we have world-class facilities and structured coaching programs. That’s not quite the case in Nigeria. When these young players train in top facilities and work with professionals, their chances of excelling increase significantly. You have to see it to truly appreciate their capabilities.”

Shepherd also emphasized the importance of infrastructure and exposure, “When I visited Nigeria, I saw kids playing on fields that don’t meet the standards we have here. In the UK, every village has

organized coaching programs, and schools are deeply involved in sports development. While opportunities are more abundant here, natural talent will always shine through.”

He praised Dynaspro for its dedication to grassroots sports development.

“Over the past decade, Dynaspro has shown a strong commitment to nurturing talent and exposing young athletes to international opportunities. They’ve consistently brought players to the UK, helping them experience what’s possible beyond Nigeria. We’ve worked together to provide access to top facilities and showcase what can be achieved.”

“Experience has shown that in all parts of the world, especially in Europe and America, grassroots sports development is the way to go and that was why we are organizing the forthcoming Sam Okwaraji tournament which is not only to immortalize this great Nigerian but to discover and nurture talented young players that will in future do the country proud in the round leather game,” he concluded.

Home-based Eagles will kick off their 2025 CHAN campaign against cup holders Senegal today in Zanzibar

Zenith Bank League: Coaches Call for Improvement as Savannah Conference Phase 1 Ends As phase 1 of the Zenith Bank/ Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) Women’s Basketball Premier League came to an end in the Savannah Conference at the Indoor Sports Hall, Package B of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, participants have urged the organisers to enhance the overall organisation of the league.

Speaking on the final day of Phase 1, Plateau Rocks Head Coach, Ringsum Solomon, and his Air Warriors counterpart, Joshua Enenche, unanimously called for improvements in the league, while also commending the sponsor for their commendable efforts and continued support for the development of basketball in Nigeria.

Plateau Rocks Coach Ringsum Solomon stressed that while progress has been made in the league, there is still much to be improved upon.

“I think things are gradually picking up. The first day was not what I expected compared to what I am seeing now. The initial day was a bit subdued, but the second day saw significant improvements, and things have continued to get better. I believe everything is going well in terms of the physicality of the game itself.

“However, when it comes to the league as a whole, I think it needs improvement because what we are witnessing requires additional support. The sponsor, Zenith Bank, has performed well, but we would like them to do even better,” the Plateau Rocks Coach stated.

Air Warriors’ Enenche, on the other hand emphasised the need for the organisers to provide participating teams with two or three months’ notice to prepare for the competition, arguing that this is essential for the development of the Nigeria Women’s Basketball

League and for showcasing the best talent.

“First and foremost, I must say that Zenith Bank has done a great job, but the timeframe given for the commencement of the league was not encouraging at all. I would advise that they work on this to ensure that most teams have ample time to prepare adequately for the competition. You cannot simply announce a date and expect everyone to be ready. Observing the current state of the league, it is evident that some teams were not fully prepared, which does not bode well for the growth of Nigeria’s Female Basketball League. Therefore, I recommend having a date set two or three months in advance to allow for proper preparation before the league begins.”

With the conclusion of Phase 1 in Abuja, attention will now turn to Jos, Plateau State, where Phase 2 will commence on 24th August.

THISDAY • TUESDAY, AUGUST 5, 2025

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back page lead photograph

Reception for Nigerian Women’s Football League champions...

Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri (5th right), Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo (5th left) and the players of Bayelsa Queens during a reception for the Nigerian Women’s Football League champions at Government House, Yenagoa, on Wednesday

TUESDAY WITH REUBENABATI abati1990@gmail.com

AfroBasket, Rena Wakama And D’Tigress

I

n less than two weeks, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has been twice lucky with female sports. The Super Falcons won the Women African Football Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title for a record 10th time in Morocco on July 25. While the country was still trying to fully digest the euphoria of that victory, and the dancing is still ongoing, the country’s female basketballers, D’Tigress also went ahead in Abidjan on Saturday, August 2, to win the AfroBasket Basketball title, for the fifth time in a row, and 29 unstoppable, ten consecutive wins since 2015. They won the AfroBasket Trophy beating arch-rivals Mali 78 – 64, that by the way, is a 14-point emphatic victory!

Nigeria has now won the AfroBasket overall seven times – 2003, 2005, 2017, 2019, 2021, 2023, and now 2025. It was not an easy run. They had to beat firsttimers South Sudan to get to the semi-finals. Then they trounced Senegal 75 -68 to get to the finals.

The finals against Mali was particularly tough. The Malians were looking for their very first trophy since the beginning of the tournament in 1966. They fought very hard. It was Nigeria’s toughest match of the tournament. By the end of the second quarter, the match was 41 – 41. The Nigerian team and their manager, Rena Wakama had to regroup and head to the locker room. When they returned, omo, the game changed. The matter reached another level. The Nigerian female Tigers put on display their talent for dominance and their ability as queens of the jungle.

Professor Wole Soyinka once pronounced that “a tiger does not proclaim its tigritude, it pounces.”

Rena Wakama’s girls pounced. Amy Okonkwo, Ezinne Kalu and Victoria Macaulay took over the pitch. Okonkwo scored 19 points, Kalu 20 points and Macaulay was absolutely brilliant with assists.

Sika Kone, Mali’s brilliant star, tried all she could but the Tigers from Nigeria were indomitable. They had the experience, the pace and the determination.

In the end, they won – the first team to win five Women’s AfroBasket titles in a row! Amy Okonkwo, Nigeria’s captain was declared the Most Valuable Player of the Tournament. All Nigerians must be proud of these young ladies and their head coach.

Fine girl, looking pretty, Rena Wakama, the 33-year-old from Okrika, is the first Nigerian National Female Basketball Coach since the tournament began. In 2024, she took the same team to the Quarter-finals of Basketball at the Olympics after beating Canada 79-70. She was recognised by the Olympics as the best coach of the tournament. Now, she has done it again with her team, winning the AfroBasket trophy back-to-back. She and her team deserve praise and appreciation.

D’Tigress, Nigeria’s female basketball champions have brought us this honour at a time, and indeed the same weekend when another Nigerian daughter, Kemi Badenoch was busy condemning and de-marketing Nigeria on the international stage. Kemi Adegoke Badenoch says she is ashamed of Nigeria and the Nigerian passport and that she does not identify with us. To give us a bad name, she said in a podcast that Nigerian secondary school students of her time carried machetes to cut grass, because there were no lawn mowers. That of course is a lie. No Nigerian student goes about with a machete. In my time, we cut school lawns with cutlasses, and this assignment was seen as part of our upbringing process, to instill discipline. Kemi also claims that she fetched water

Rena Wakama in buckets. The Adegoke family must be ashamed of this their daughter who is now pointing out the direction to her father’s house with the left hand.

They must be embarrassed.

She wants to be British Prime Minister, fine, we wish her luck, but she must stop de-marketing Nigeria with misleading and diplomatically damaging comments. A Nigerian peace-building organization, the Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro) has already sent a formal petition to the UK Parliament to report Rt. Hon. Kemi Badenoch, Leader of the Opposition, and to demand an apology from her.

Nobody needs her apology. She has declared that England is her home. Let her live and die there. In Nigeria, we are over 200 million, we are not looking for any odd person to join us. But Badenoch must do us a favour. She must renounce her Nigerian citizenship and follow due process in doing so. The 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, Sections 25 – 27 thereof, recognises her as a Nigerian citizen, Nigeria accepting dual nationality, irrespective of what she says. But she has the right under the same Constitution (Section 29) to formally part ways with Nigeria, and hold on to her acquired British citizenship. I can affirm that nobody will miss her.

We are consoled by the fact that this same country has produced other daughters who are not prodigal like Kemi Badenoch who is struggling to wear a white mask, spitting on her heritage and ancestry, to please white folks. She is even more racist than anyone else that the label fits, except that when the mask is lifted, what is found is just sheer hypocrisy, opportunism, and a confused identity syndrome that may require the attention of a shrink. This is why Nigeria must be grateful to the footballing Super Falcons, and the basket-ball playing D’Tigress teams. Both teams have on their lists ladies like Kemi Badenoch who have links with other countries; identity, residence or professional, who have nonetheless chosen to identify with Nigeria and they are glad to do so.

They are not running down Nigeria, rather they are contributing to its development, and are proudly Nigerian. These patriots have now been deservedly rewarded by the Nigerian government. President

Tinubu was quite generous to the Super Falcons and their technical crew: Naira cash equivalent of $100, 000 for the 24 players and the head coach (upgraded in his own case from $50, 000 to $100, 000), $50,000 for 10 members of the technical and the conferment of the National Honour of the Order of the Niger (OON) on both the players and the technical crem members. Members of the triumphant, record-making D’Tigress team and their technical crew have been so honoured too. The only difference is that they were received by the Vice President Kashim Shettima on behalf of the President.

It is clear to those who may doubt the fact that sports achievement brings national pride and honour. The psychological effect of sports victory is far-reaching. Nigerian Presidents love every success in the sports arena. It is a low-hanging fruit arena for every administration. I am not supposed to report everything I saw during my tenure as President Goodluck Jonathan’s official spokesperson, but the temptation to report the following is merely to underscore why sports victory is important. One morning, President Goodluck Jonathan had made up his mind to sack Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, who was then Minister of Sports. He had put me on standby that early morning to put out the news. The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Mohammed Bello Adoke had also been summoned very early in the morning to let him know what would happen.

This was in 2013, at the height of the rebellion of some Governors and Senators, including Senator Bukola Saraki who said they were going to form a breakaway faction of the People’s Democratic Party, the new PDP they called it. Mallam Abdullahi was Senator Saraki’s nominee in the Cabinet, He was meant to be sacrificed, to send a message to his principal and sponsor.

When we got to the Council Chamber however, the matter got twisted. It turned out that as part of Matters Arising or AOB, the Minister of Sports had chosen that very day to bring the FIFA U-17 World Cup, which Nigeria had just won, to Council and present it to the President. The Cup was brought into the Council Chambers. As Bolaji Abdullahi rose to his feet, Adoke who sat directly in front of me, a short distance to the President, turned back and whispered to me. He asked me to quickly go to Oga and tell him that the original plan would not work today. It would be wrong to sack a man the same day he was bringing joy to the country. I stood up and went to the President. Bolaji Abdullahi was going on, giving a speech about how the boys did well, and the government was so kind and so on and so forth. If only he knew. Characteristically, President Jonathan betrayed no emotion. His usual style was to reserve the sacking of any Minister till the end of the meeting and quietly announce that a certain Minister would no longer be at the Federal Executive meeting from the following week. Bolaji Abdullahi survived. He remained in the cabinet much longer, saved by sports victory.

I talk too much. But I have brought this up to show that every President naturally appreciates honour, glory and achievement especially when the citizens do well locally and internationally. President Tinubu must be a happy man at the moment. Nigerian daughters are doing well in football and basketball. Even in academics. A 15-year-old student of Academic Planet School, Aba is on her way to Virginia Tech University

in the United States for a three-month summer course having won a spot in a STEM competition for 250, 000 girls from all over the world. She is from Aba. She is Nigerian. Her name is Grace John Nkpa.

The success of the Super Falcons and the D’Tigress must be a wake-up call for the Nigerian government at all levels to invest more in the growth, training and development of the girl-child, and even further, the empowerment of Nigerian women. For a fact, Nigerian women constitute half of the Nigerian population.

They are the mothers, the wives, the grandmothers, the girlfriends, the aunties, the mothers-in-law who hold the threads of our livelihoods together. In public life, many of them have proved their mettle as persons who can make as much, if not better contributions to the making and the re-making of Nigeria. The likes of Kemi Badenoch are in the minority. In the majority, you would find the likes of Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO). At the lower level, it is not a special revelation to note that in most secondary schools, the girls, where they are given the benefit of access to education, are more academically sound than the boys. On prize-giving day, the girls win most of the prizes these days.

We seem to be grooming a younger generation of boys who think that it is part of the privilege of being male in a family to spend half of the day in front of a tablet, playing games, chatting with friends on phone, or watching the Premier League or La Liga. One of my sons was so much into football, you could ask him who were the best No. 10 players in the world and he would start telling you their names, dates of birth, the clubs that they played for and their personal histories. Ask him about Shakespeare. He would be tongue-tied! I used to panic. Our daughters do not give us that much anxiety. Nigerian women have proven one thing: they are very consistent and they achieve. Perhaps if we were to allow women a much wider space in Nigerian politics and leadership, they will be much better in places where the men, who think that they are entitled to lead, have failed.

There is however, a sore point. While there are many persons who agree that President Tinubu is right to be as generous to D’Tigress female basketball team as he was to the Super Falcons, there are others who think that this idea of throwing bundles of cash around would serve no purpose. We can debate that, but let the female basketballers enjoy their own Presidential handshake, reception, cash and national titles too. That done, we can now begin the debate about the proper way to appreciate those who project the country positively. The Lionesses of England and their coach, Sarina Weigman won the Euro 2025 title the second time in a row. They were well received by an appreciative nation but nobody announced any cash donation. England is a different country.

It is where Kemi Badenoch lives where a cutlass is described as a machete. But this is Nigeria. The best that can be said is that the Nigerian government may appreciate athletes, and provide an enabling environment for the development of sports but it must also encourage and reward the flowering of talents in other areas of human endeavour beyond sports where many young Nigerians are equally excelling.

Nurses and doctors should be paid. Academics too.

Everyone must be made happy fairly and justly.

Congratulations D’Tigress. Your nation salutes you!

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