CBN Directs Banks to Submit Capital Plans, Gives 10 Days Deadline
Nume Ekeghe
Shell, TotalEnergies Expect First Oil, Gas Production from $5bn Bonga North, $550m Ubeta Fields by 2027
$8bn Bonga Southwest-Aparo field nears FID as IMA project takes off 2026 Operators accelerate ongoing projects to meet Nigeria’s 3m bpd, 12bcf/d target
Peter Uzoho
Multinational oil companies - Shell and TotalEnergies have announced that first oil and gas output from the $5 billion Bonga North field and the $550 million Ubeta gas field are expected to happen by 2027, barring any unforeseen circumstances. The two oil majors are also
aggressively progressing towards bringing more projects to development phase, with Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited (SNEPCo) saying that its
Bonga Southwest-Aparo field was exceptionally closed to FID while HI gas field was also progressing towards approval for takeoff. On the other hand, TotalEnergies
EP Nigeria Limited anticipates signing the FID on IMA project in 2026, while its recently discovered field, Ntokon is also in discussion for commencement of execution in the coming years.
However, the operators are accelerating the execution schedule of their ongoing projects to get
Keyamo Inaugurates Enugu Air, Says
Mbah Undoubtedly
One of the Best
Govs
and Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Uchenna Ugwu, during the inauguration of three aircraft to mark the commencement of operations by Enugu Air, a newly
L-R: Secretary to State Government, Enugu State, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia; Commissioner for Transportation, Dr. Obi Ozor; Minister of
Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN; Catholic Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Rt. Rev. Claitus Onaga; Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah; Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai;
TWO-DAY KNOWLEDGE SHARING WORKSHOP ON CAPITAL MARKET LAW...
L-R:
at NJI in Abuja, yesterday
Agama, during a Two-Day Knowledge Sharing Workshop on Capital Market Law, Ethics and Judicial Interpretation for Judges
IMF to Nigeria: Focus on Growth, Discipline, Revenue to Realise Your Potential
Nume Ekeghe
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has urged Nigeria to deepen inclusive growth, enforce stronger fiscal discipline, and boost domestic revenue mobilisation as key priorities for steering the country toward lasting stability and prosperity.
In a blog posted yesterday by IMF’s Mission Chief to Nigeria and an Assistant Director in the IMF’s African Department, Axel Schimmelpfennig and IMF’s Resident Representative in Nigeria, Christian Ebeke, the Fund commended recent reforms but reiterated that while the reforms were starting to show results, poverty and food insecurity remain high, and the uncertain global environment presents additional challenges.
It stated: “To address these challenges, Nigeria should focus on three key priorities: First, the country needs stronger and more sustained growth to lift millions of people out of poverty and food insecurity, which is what the authorities are focusing on.
“This does not happen overnight. In the meantime, making growth more inclusive also requires scaling up the existing cash transfer system.”
“Second, as an essential ingredient for economic development, Nigeria needs an effective budget framework.
“Delivering effective investments in people and infrastructure requires realistic budget assumptions, strong expenditure management, and transparent implementation
and reporting, which, in turn, can strengthen accountability.
“For its part, monetary policy should continue to decisively tackle inflation and reduce economic uncertainty.
“Third, the government should continue to increase domestic revenues. This is essential given Nigeria’s substantial funding needs in growth-enabling areas such as agriculture, infrastructure, including access to electricity, and climate adaptation.
“The government’s tax reforms will make it easier to pay taxes and ensure that everyone who owes taxes pays them. Over time, once the ongoing cost-of-living crisis abates and the cash transfer system is fully operational, there will be room to align tax rates with those in neighboring countries.
“For now, the share of revenue that goes to interest spending leaves too little for investment in people and infrastructure.
“It is therefore critical that the substantial financial savings from the removal of fuel subsidies flow to the government to fund priority spending.”
They further noted that while Nigeria’s potential was beyond doubt, achieving it would require continued reforms and an effective social safety net to carry the most vulnerable along.
Furthermore, they stated that while recent reforms have brought some encouraging progress, Nigeria continues to face significant economic
headwinds.
Inflation remains stubbornly high at over 20 per cent, and weak infrastructure, particularly as an unreliable electricity supply, continues to hamper productivity and private sector growth.
It further stated: “Progress has been encouraging, significant challenges remain. Inflation still exceeds 20 per cent. Poor infrastructure, especially for electricity, inhibits economic activity.
“Poverty and food insecurity
remain high. Nigeria lacks an effective social safety net to cushion the impact of shocks on the most vulnerable.
“In addition, the global environment is posing new challenges with elevated uncertainty and high
borrowing costs. “Nigeria is especially affected by volatile international oil prices since oil revenues account for a large proportion of government revenues a figure that stood at 30 per cent in 2024.”
NDIC Hails Progress in Inter-Agency Fight Against Insider Abuse, Bank Fraud
Reveals 11 cases now in court, 42 under investigation at EFCC, intelligence unit, others
Nume Ekeghe
The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) has said that collaboration between law enforcement and regulatory agencies in tackling insider abuses and financial malpractices in the banking system was yielding measurable results, including active prosecutions and ongoing investigations.
This was disclosed yesterday by the Acting Managing Director/ Chief Executive of NDIC, Mrs. Emily Osuji, at the opening of the 2025 Capacity Building Workshop for Law Enforcement Agencies, with the theme: “Investigating and Prosecuting Financial Malpractices in Banks: A Critical Analysis of Strategies to Prevent Bank Failures.”
Declares resident biometrics enrollment remains free of charge
She said: “There is no gainsaying that this collaboration has yielded and is still yielding results, particularly in the area of investigation and prosecution.
“Just like other initiatives by the corporation, this workshop aims to complement the efforts of the Inter-agency Task Force on the Implementation of the Failed Banks Act.
“The corporation, whilst bearing in mind the positive impact of such collaboration, will continue to strive to enhance this synergy in the area of law enforcement relating to the investigation and prosecution of financial malpractices.
“Kindly permit me to use this forum to appeal to the members of the task force not to relent but to execute the given mandate diligently in achieving the objectives of establishing the task force.”
According to her, significant progress was already being recorded.
She added: “Through your collaborative efforts, I am aware that 11
cases are currently being prosecuted at various courts, 25 ongoing investigations with FMIU, eight 8 with EFCC and nine concluded investigations with the Federal Ministry of Justice for advice and prosecution. This is an indication that we are on the right course.”
She added that the recent revocation of Heritage Bank’s licence by the Central Bank of Nigeria was already under probe.
“As you are all aware, the Central Bank of Nigeria recently revoked the banking licence of Heritage Bank Plc and an investigation of some of the Directors, Managers and officers of this failed insured Institution is ongoing to bring to book those found culpable in the collapse of this institution.”
Beyond enforcement, Osuji highlighted the NDIC’s concern over the rising threat of cybercrime and other technology-enabled fraud in the financial system.
“Banks and banking operations are becoming more vulnerable.
The advancements in information
NNPC Donates
35
technology that open new possibilities and vistas in banking operations have equally exposed the banking subsector to emerging threats.
“This situation increases the burden on the regulators and supervisors to enhance their operational capacities. It has also heightened the need for more collaboration between Agencies involved in the fight against banking malpractices.
“The authorities are becoming more proactive with policies and examinations/investigations to ensure that the banks/financial institutions strengthen their internal control processes through strong risk management practices to prevent loss of funds and maintain depositors’ confidence in the banking system,” she maintained.
The acting MD urged security and enforcement officers to familiarise themselves with modern bank fraud typologies such as ATM-related frauds, fraudulent transfers, internet banking scams, suppression of customer deposits, unauthorised credits, and money laundering.
to Presidential Initiative on CNG CBN Clarifies $50 Non-resident BVN Charges for Nigerians in Diaspora
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) yesterday said no hidden fees have been introduced to the newly launched Non-Resident Bank Verification Number (NRBVN) platform.
The central bank also maintained that BVN enrolment for Nigerians residing within the country remained entirely free of charge.
CBN Acting Director, Corporate Communications Department, Mrs. Hakama Sidi Ali, made the clarification in a statement, following recent speculations regarding charges related to the initiatives.
She explained that the fee referenced in recent reports applies solely to the
recently launched NRBVN initiative, a service designed specifically for Nigerians living in the Diaspora.
Sidi Ali, further explained that the nominal charge of about $50 was not a fee for obtaining a BVN, but rather a recoverable processing cost for remote biometric and due diligence verification. The cost, she noted, covers secure identity authentication, data handling, and technology infrastructure required to support the overseas enrolment process.
According to the CBN’s Acting Director, “Nigerians in the diaspora previously paid $200. The associated fee of $50 is strictly a processing charge for remote verification and not a payment
for the BVN itself.
“The NRBVN system is a voluntary, secure and convenient solution for Nigerians in the diaspora.”
She described the reports circulating on social media, suggesting the imposition of new or excessive charges on Nigerians as inaccurate and misleading.
Sidi Ali therefore, advised that the misleading reports should be disregarded.
Specifically, she pointed out that NRBVN was more than just a onetime initiative, adding that it forms the foundation of the central bank’s broader digital transformation strategy aimed at improving and expanding access to financial services for Nigerians globally.
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has handed over 35 hybrid Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered buses to the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (Pi-CNG).
During a brief ceremony held at the NNPC Towers yesterday, the Group Chief Executive Officer, NNPC, Bayo Ojulari reiterated the company’s commitment to support the federal government’s gas aspirations.
The GCEO, who stated that the
move was in line with NNPC’s efforts to drive the adoption of CNG as a cleaner, cheaper and sustainable fuel alternative, added that the company has recorded significant progress on gas supply, infrastructure, distribution and retail outlets.
“I am proud that NNPC Ltd is playing a pivotal role in driving the Federal Government’s gas agenda towards energy transition,” the GCEO stated.
Earlier in his address, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, said the CNG buses represent not just
Buses
vehicles, but serve as instruments of economic relief, social equity, and environmental responsibility.
“They signal a future where the ordinary Nigerian can commute safely, affordably, and efficiently,” he added.
The minister described the initiative as a direct reflection of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, a bold step to reduce the cost of transportation, lessen dependence on petrol, and ensure the utilisation of the nation’s abundant natural gas resources for the benefit of the people.
Representative of the CJN, Justice Stephen Jonah Adah; Representative of the Vice President, Dr. Tope Fasua; Chairman, Senate Committee on Capital Market, Sen. Osita Izunaso; and Director General of Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr. Emomotimi
held
PHOTO: KINGSLEY ADEBOYE
James Emejo in Abuja
CONCLUDED RACKITT ACCESS ACCELERATOR PROGRAMME...
L–R: Global Vice President, Dettol, Mr. Loannis Dostas; Founder, Geotek Water Solutions Ltd., Mr. Ichor Joshua; and General Manager, Reckitt Sub-Saharan Africa, Mr. Akbar Ali Shah, during the presentation of ₦12 million seed funding cheque to social and health innovators tackling W.A.S.H (Water, Sanitation and Health) and Sexual Reproductive Health (S.R.H) challenges at the recently concluded Reckitt Access Accelerator Programme in Lagos
Atiku: Wike Now Using Church Altar for Politics, His Day of Reckoning Not Far
ADC website crashes thrice in 48 hours amid surging membership registration Party accuses Tinubu’s govt of plotting to destabilise opposition coalition
Former Vice President and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, yesterday, accused the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for turning the church pulpit into a political campaign propaganda, warning that his day of reckoning was no longer far.
Lokpobiri
Ex-SGF dumps APC Aggrieved ADC members ask court to declare Mark-led interim leadership illegal of the coalition that any attempt to exclude any region from participating in the contest to select a presidential candidate for the coalition would result in a stillbirth for the movement.
However, in what many had described as a significant political momentum, the ADC website crashed three times in just 48 hours, overwhelmed by a surge of Nigerians seeking information and membership following the recent opposition coalition.
Lauds
This was as the ADC raised the alarm over an alleged plot by elements within the Tinubu administration to undermine and destabilise the growing opposition coalition.
In another development, a former Secretary to the Government of Federation, David Babachir Lawal, has announced his decision to leave the All Progressives Congress (APC).
At the same time, a former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank, has cautioned leaders
NNPC/FIRST E&P JV over 10m Man-Hour Zero Lost-time Injury Milestone
Peter Uzoho
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil) Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has commended the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) and FIRST Exploration and Petroleum Development Company Joint Venture (NNPC/FIRST E&P JV) on achieving 10 million man-hours with zero Lost Time Incident (LTI) across its operations on Petroleum Mining License (PMLs) 53 and 54.
The milestone, according to a statement by the JV partners, was marked with a celebratory dinner and award presentation ceremony held in Lagos.
The event honoured the dedication of the NNPC Ltd/FIRST E&P JV workforce, as well as its service providers and contractors, to robust
safety protocols and sustainable practices within Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
Speaking at the event attended by industry leaders, stakeholders, and partners, Lokpobiri lauded the leadership and staff of FIRST E&P for their exemplary safety record and contributions to Nigeria’s energy sector.
“This is a celebration of the oil and gas sector. 10 Million Lost Time Incident-Free Man-Hours is an excellent record. It is important to commend the staff and partners of FIRST E&P. Planning is never enough to achieve this excellent record – it takes the conscious effort of all staff.
“FIRST E&P has been an exceptional leader in the sector. Excellence is rarely celebrated in Nigeria, but we celebrate this so that others in the sector should emulate,” the
minister said.
He also extended commendations to the Managing Director of FIRST E&P, Ademola Adeyemi-Bero, for being an excellent ambassador of Nigeria and Africa in his role as Chairman of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC)’s Board of Governors.
In his remarks, Adeyemi-Bero, who is also the Chairman of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries’ (OPEC) Board of Governors, highlighted the collaborative efforts behind the achievement and reaffirmed the JV’s continued focus on safety and innovation.
He said, “We view this achievement as a shared success. This would not have been possible without the dedication and collaboration of our contractors, service providers and partners, all represented here today.
CSOs Condemn Attack on Emir Sanusi’s Palace, Demand Explanation
Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano
Some civil society organisations have strongly condemned the alleged attack on the palace of Kano’s 16th Emir, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II, and is seeking explanations from the Kano State Police Command.
Some people in the convoy of the 15th Emir of Kano Aminu Bayero ware alleged to have launched the attack on the palace located at Kofar Kudu wwhile Bayero was returning from the residence of the late Kano business mogul Alhaji
Aminu Alhassan Dantata, where he paid a condolence visit.
Speaking with journalists yesterday in Kano, the head of the CSOs Mustapha Abdullahi described the silence from the police on the incidence as truly disturbing and tantamount to compromising the peace of the state.
According to him, the action could apparently plunge the state into chaos and uncertainty, and therefore perceived to be a deliberate plan plotted by some unpatriotic elements.
“It has come to the knowledge of
the organisations that, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero abandoned the usual route to his personal residence at Mandawari and decided to intentionally passed through Kabara in front of the Kano Emir’s Palace, hence the attack on the Palace by some elements who were allegedly linked to the dethroned Emir’s entourage.”
“Verifiable sources provided the following report in the aftermath of the attack whereby; a Destruction of Police Vehicles: -Police Hilux Vehicle (NPF 182D) – Mopol 9 - Police Hilux Vehicle (NPF 195D) – Mopol 52”
As a company that has run for almost 13 years, we view our ‘safety first’ culture as one of our foundations.
“In an industry like ours, where accidents often happen, 10 Million Lost Time Incident-Free Man-Hours of operations represents our collective commitment to doing things the right way every time.
“It represents the discipline of men and women who work tirelessly on offshore platforms, onshore facilities, who put safety first to make this a reality. We also appreciate the collaborative support of the NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS) and NNPC, whose joint leadership and direction have been invaluable.”
Meanwhile, chairman of the APC, Ebonyi State chapter, Chief Stanley Okoro-Emegha, has said the opposition coalition parties would not make any inroad in the state because of the popularity and performance of Governor Francis Nwifuru of the state.
Similarly, some youths in Ondo State, have expressed pessimism over the formation of the ADC, stating that the move would end up in fiasco.
However, Atiku described what Wike did as a desecration of the altar of God as well as an abomination in the sight of man and God.
Wike had Sunday at the St James Anglican Church in Asokoro, Abuja, turned the church’s pulpit into a campaign soapbox.
But reacting, Atiku said, ‘’The land-grabbing Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, staggered into church not to seek forgiveness but to turn the altar of the Most High into a political soapbox.’’
According to Atiku, in a statement by his Media Aide, Paul Ibeh, ‘’Now, let me be clear: there’s absolutely nothing wrong with going to Church. I, too, was in the sanctuary today — lifting my voice in thanksgiving to Jehovah for the safe delivery of the Coalition.
“A coalition that W(h)I(s)KE(y), the Herod of the FCT, tried — unsuccessfully — to abort before it saw the light of day. But God prevailed. The coalition lives.
‘’What is utterly abominable, however, is the desecration of the sacred altar with partisan bile, as Wike shamelessly did today. It is written: “Take these things away! Stop making My Father’s house a place of commerce!” (John 2:16 AMP).
“But in Wike’s hands, the house of God became a theatre of lies, vengeance, and drunken arrogance. Perhaps he should have used the moment to repent for the impunity with which he has been allocating prime Abuja lands to his sons, in what now resembles a feudal monarchy masquerading as public service.
“According to credible reports by an online newspaper, this self-proclaimed democrat of a government by the father, for the sons, had first denied these transactions. Now, cornered by truth, he has resorted to intimidation — ordering the arrest of a civil servant from the FCDA for allegedly leaking documents that exposed his abuse of office.
‘’As a Christian, Wike will be allocated a burial plot of an average of 8 feet long and 2.5 feet wide when he finishes his race like all mortals.
The Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) yesterday revealed that plans had reached an advanced stage for the replacement of the Supervised Industrial Training Scheme in Engineering (SITSIE) with the Engineering Residency Programme (ERP) for professionals.
COREN, in a press briefing in Abuja, also announced plans for the impending commencement of its 33rd Engineering Assembly, with the theme: “Advancing Quality Engineering Services and Businesses in Nigeria: Professionalism, Compliance and Remunerations.” Speaking on the issues, COREN
President, Sadiq Abubakar, said the event which will hold between July 14 and 16 will enable practitioners and stakeholders to evaluate matters of mutual interest relating to the engineering profession and share ideas on emerging issues relating to the profession.
Abubakar added that it will offer engineers the opportunity to discuss the dynamics in relationships between the different engineering cadres, operators, regulators and the larger Nigerian society across the economic sectors of Nigeria.
Besides, the COREN president noted that the assembly will help assess and educate engineering practitioners on various developments within the engineering
profession for effective regulation and safety of lives, properties and investments as well as to promote shared prosperity for all in Nigeria.
Significantly, at the upcoming event, Abubakar stressed that the assembly will interrogate the remuneration and fee structure for engineering professionals vis-à-vis the quality of services rendered and the motivation of the practitioners, with the aim to ensure it is not exploitative, but fair and motivating.
COREN was established by Decree 55 of 1970 and has a mandate to regulate and control the engineering education, training and practice of engineering in all its aspects and ramifications in Nigeria.
PHOTO: SUNDAY ADIGUN
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Chuks Okocha, Alex Enumah, Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja and Benjamin Nworie in Abakaliki and Fidelis David in Akure
2025 INTERNATIONAL CIVIL SERVICE CONFERENCE...
Head, Marketing and Communications, Coronation Insurance Plc, Mr. Adebowale
Sales, Coronation Life Assurance Limited, Mr. Tunji Bello; Managing
Coronation
Tinubu Urges BRICS to Rethink Global Governance Structure, Finance, Health
President Bola Tinubu has called for a re-evaluation of the current global governance structure, as well as the financial and healthcare systems, urging greater equity and inclusion for low-income and emerging economies, particularly in Africa.
The remarks came as President Donald Trump said United States will impose an additional 10 per cent tariff on any country aligning itself with what he termed “anti-American policies” of the BRICS group of developing nations.
BRICS, an acronym derived from the names of the early members, Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is a formal intergovernmental organisation that aims to create greater economic and geopolitical integration and coordination among member states.
Addressing the 17th meeting of the Global South and Emerging
Economies bloc, BRICS, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Tinubu stated that environmental degradation, climate crisis, and healthcare inequalities should receive more attention, as they contributed to slowing growth and development.
Tinubu, invited to the summit by Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva, stated that Nigeria supported the BRICS position on the need to focus on collective, fair, and equitable global development.
Nigeria became the ninth partner country of BRICS in January 2025, joining Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan.
The 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan in October 2024, had created the partner-country category.
According to the president, “Nigeria, therefore, associates with what I have heard today and all that has happened in BRICS. The next issues are financial restructuring and re-evaluation of the global structure.”
Tinubu stated, “Africa has contributed the least to global emissions but suffers the most.”
He emphasised the need for a new path of justice anchored on fairness, sustainable technology transfer, and accessible financing, so that emerging economies could fully benefit from various initiatives.
He said, “The African continent is creating the path through the African Carbon Market Initiative and the Great Green Wall. We believe that COP-30 will strengthen our resolve to adopt a strategic approach to achieving a healthy global environment.
“Nigeria strongly believes in South-South cooperation. We can, therefore, not be passive participants in global decision-making on financial restructuring, debt forgiveness, climate change, environmental issues, and healthcare.
“We must be the architects of a future that addresses the specific needs and concerns of youths, who represent 70 per cent of our population
NiMet Warns 19 States of Flash Flooding Risk This Month
Kasim Sumaina in Abuja
The Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet) Monday released a list of 19 states at risk of flash flooding this month.
The agency’s flash flood risk alert for July 2025 shows varying probable risks of experiencing flash flooding events due to the onset of rainfall across the country.
According to the release, a highrisk state is Sokoto and notable risk states are: Kaduna, Zamfara, Yobe, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Jigawa, Adamawa, Taraba, Niger, Nasarawa, Benue, Ogun, Ondo, Lagos, Delte, Edo, Cross River, Rivers and Akwa Ibom.
in Nigeria. Therefore, Nigeria remains guided by our long-term vision, 2050, and nationally determined contribution.
“We are taking bold steps to accelerate renewable energy adoption, mainstream climate action, promote nature-based solutions, strengthen urban resilience, champion SouthSouth cooperation, align with the global renewal framework, and achieve universal health coverage for all.”
The president also said addressing non-communicable diseases must remain a collective health concern.
According to him, “As we ap-
Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja
New Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Ajaokuta Steel Company, Professor Andulsalam Naeem, has assured that the steel company will work again, rekindling hope of resuscitating the company widely believed to hold the key to Nigeria’s industrial revolution.
proach COP-30 and look to strengthen the global health system, we believe the BRICS must not only be a bloc for emerging economies but also a beacon for emerging solutions and resolutions rooted in solidarity, selfreliance, sustainability, and shared prosperity of a common future.
“Nigeria reaffirms its commitment to strategic collaboration that translates into sustainable and inclusive development for all.”
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, and his finance counterpart, Mr. Wale Edun, accompanied the president to the summit.
In exercising its pro tempore presidency of BRICS, the Brazilian government announced Nigeria’s formal admission as a partner country on January 17, 2025.
As the world’s sixth most populous country and one of Africa’s major economies, Nigeria shares convergent interests with other BRICS members.
Nigeria plays an active role in strengthening South-South cooperation and reforming global governance, which are top priorities during Brazil’s current presidency.
Tuggar called on BRICS nations to
Continued
in our time. I have received a firm assurance from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of his full support for the revival of Ajaokuta Steel Company, and with that backing, I am confident we will succeed.”
currently underway to identify and address priority areas for rehabilitation and activation.
The Ajaokuta Steel Plant, one of Nigeria’s most ambitious industrial projects, had been stalled for decades, despite its strategic role in the country’s industrialisation goals.
Naeem said, “With the president’s support and the cooperation of all stakeholders, we are determined to make Ajaokuta a beacon of industrial transformation. This is not just a federal government project, it is a legacy for the Nigerian people.”
The agency also advised preparing emergency kits, turning off electricity and gas during flooding and strengthening mudslide prevention measures.
It however urged residents to take these precautions seriously to minimize the impact of potential flash flooding events.
On precautionary measure, NiMet advises residents of the affected states to take necessary precautions, including, relocating where necessary and clearing drainage systems.
Naeem gave the assurance at a grand reception ceremony organised in his honour by the people of his Ayegunle Gbede community in Ijumu Lokoja Government Area of Kogi State.
He explained that the company had been abandoned for a long time.
The managing director declared that the long-awaited revival of the steel plant will happen under the current administration.
he stated, “Ajaokuta will work
However, Naeem’s leadership brings renewed energy and direction to the long-abandoned facility.
Naeem emphasised that the plant’s revitalisation was not just about steel production, but also about fulfilling a national dream, one that promised massive job creation, industrial development, and economic diversification.
He stressed that a comprehensive technical audit of the plant was
Naeem called on Kogi State citizens, particularly the host communities, to support the administration’s efforts in ensuring a peaceful and cooperative environment for the success of the project.
The grand reception served not only as a celebration of his appointment, but also as a rallying call for collective effort to bring Ajaokuta Steel Company back to life.
CSR: Fidelity Bank Launches Solar Powered Bags for School Children
James Sowole in Abeokuta
In a bold step towards improving access to quality education across Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc has launched the “Lighting Young Minds” initiative, donating 1,000 solar-powered school bags to pupils in public primary schools in Ogun State. The bags were unveiled during a special event in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital. The initiative reflects the bank’s commitment to tackling systemic barriers to learning - particularly the challenge of limited electricity in underserved communities.
Speaking at the event, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank, Dr. Nneka
Onyeali-Ikpe, stated the initiative aligns with one of the bank’s core Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) pillars of expanding access to quality education.
“At Fidelity Bank, we see education as not only a means of knowledge transfer, but as a transformative force - a bridge to opportunity,” she said. She explained that through the bank’s SWEETA initiative, 1,000 solar-powered school bags donated to enable children to study safely at night, without the
dangers associated with candles or kerosene lamps.
“Beyond helping them improve their academic performance,” she added, “we want to inspire young minds to see that innovation and resilience can light the path to a better future.”
Onyeali-Ikpe also highlighted Fidelity Bank’s broader investment in education, such as the SWEETA School Fees Support Initiative, which has disbursed over ₦8 billion in tuition support to eligible customers; the Read2Lead Writing Competition, which has impacted more than 3,000 students across Nigeria through prizes and
grants; the Back-to-School Loans for parents; the Fidelity EduLoan which helps schools with infrastructure upgrades and asset acquisition; as well as the Green Energy Financing Program, which complements the solar-powered bag initiative by promoting sustainable energy use in education via solar energy.
The solar-powered bags - designated for schools across all 20 local government areas in Ogun State - were officially unveiled by Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe alongside Her Excellency, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, the First Lady of Ogun State.
Abiodun praised the project, calling it a crucial and timely
intervention in child development and foundational learning.
“This initiative directly enhances learning for children in communities with limited electricity. It’s a brilliant example of how simple, practical innovations can drive profound change - keeping children in school and helping them thrive,” she said.
She further noted its alignment with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4, which promotes inclusive and equitable quality education for all, and called on other private sector players to emulate Fidelity Bank’s leadership in social impact.
The Lighting Young Minds
initiative is an extension of Fidelity Bank’s mission of empowering Nigeria’s future generations through inclusive, sustainable, and forward-thinking educational solutions.
As the bank continues to bridge opportunity gaps, it remains steadfast in its pursuit of a brighter future for children across the country. Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity
Deji Elumoye and Michael Olugbode in Abuja
L-R:
Popoola; Director,
Group, Abuja, Mr. David Aluko; Head, Bancassurance, Coronation Insurance Plc, Mr. Uche Okaranwolu; Head, Corporate
Director/CEO, Coronation Insurance Plc, Mr. Olamide Olajolo; Team Lead, Public Sector, Coronation Life Assurance Limited, Mr. Alexander Ugbe; Retail Agency Regional Coordinator, Northern Nigeria, Coronation Life Assurance Limited, Mr. Peter Zum; and Senior Officer, Public Sector, Coronation Insurance Plc, Mr. David Taiwo, at the International Civil Service Conference 2025 in Abuja… recently
Trump to Musk: Your New Party ‘Ridiculous’, America Used to Two-party System
Emmanuel Addeh in
President Donald Trump has called Elon Musk’s plans to form a new political party “ridiculous,” launching new barbs at the tech billionaire and saying the Musk ally he once named to lead NASA would have presented a conflict of interest given Musk’s business interests in space.
A day after Musk escalated his feud with Trump and announced the formation of a new U.S. political party, the Republican president was asked about it before boarding Air Force One in Morristown, New Jersey, as he returned to Washington upon visiting his nearby golf club.
“I think it’s ridiculous to start a third party. We have had tremendous success with the Republican Party. The Democrats have lost their way, but
it’s always been a two-party system, and I think starting a third party just adds to confusion,” Trump told reporters.
“It really seems to have been developed for two parties. Third parties have never worked, so he can have fun with it, but I think it’s ridiculous,” he added.
Shortly after speaking about Musk, Trump posted further comments on his Truth Social platform, saying, “I am saddened to watch Elon Musk go completely ‘off the rails,’ essentially becoming a train wreck over the past five weeks.”
Musk announced on Saturday that he was establishing the “America Party” in response to Trump’s tax-cut and spending bill, which Musk said would bankrupt the country.
“What the heck was the point of
S H ell, To TA l e nerg I e S e xpe CT
first production earlier to support the county’s target of raising oil production to 3 million barrels per day (bpd) and gas output to 12 billion cubic feet per day (12bcf/d) by 2030.
Country Chair of TotalEnergies in Nigeria, Matthieu Bouyer, and Managing Director of SNEPCo, Ronald Adams, made the announcements in their separate interventions during a high-level panel session at the just-concluded Nigerian Oil and Gas (NOG) Energy Week 2025 in Abuja
Speaking at the session titled: “Pragmatically Achieving Energy Abundance,” Bouyer said TotalEnergies was taking a bold step in supporting Nigeria’s energy goals with the Ubeta gas field project in the oil mining lease (OML) 58 onshore license in Nigeria, now in
Gideon Arinze in Enugu Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, on Monday, inaugurated Enugu Air, an Enugu State-owned commercial airline established by the Governor Peter Mbah administration with three Embraer airplanes for a start.
Recalling Mbah’s persistence and energy in bringing Enugu Air to reality, Keyamo described him as “an incredible, performing governor”, stating that it would be difficult to defeat him in 2027, given the level of work he has done in just two years.
Mbah described the feat as triumph of vision, and the beginning of Enugu’s journey to becoming a major aviation hub.
Keyamo stated, “Governor Peter Mbah was the first governor that visited me immediately I was sworn in as a minister. I said this man will not even allow me to settle down first. The governor was relentless, persistent and pushing, to the extent that I asked, ‘this private sector experience you are bringing into Enugu, do you want Enugu to explode?’
“It was incredible. He was not even waiting for us to come to him. Dr. Peter Mbah was coming to Abuja almost every week to press the button to make sure that a couple of things happened and this (launch of Enugu Air) is just one of them.”
Keyamo commended the state’s choice of XEJet as partner and operator of Enugu Air, describing XEJet as a highly competent and 100 per cent Nigeria-owned key player in the country and Africa’s aviation industry.
“XEJet is not only supporting Enugu Air, it is running the Sierra Leonean national airline. That is what the Renewed Hope Agenda is all about,” he stated.
The minister dismissed misgivings over the federal government’s plan to concession the Akanu Ibiam International Airport (AIIA), and lauded Mbah’s strenuous effort towards ensuring the imminent completion and operationalisation of the airport.
Keyamo said of Mbah, “He also came back to us and said, ‘look, I want to attract private sector investment into Enugu Airport. I will not wait for bureaucracy to run this airport for the good of Enugu people. The
its execution phase.
He said the Ubeta project was set to deliver a plateau of around 70,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day including condensates, a significant contribution to Nigeria’s gas development ambitions.
“The 70,000 bpd from Ubeta is a major milestone, and first gas/ commissioning is expected by 2027,” Bouyer noted.
The country chair also informed the participants of TotalEnergies IMA field, located within the OML112 and 117 under the AMNI/TEPNG Joint Venture 15km off the southeast coast of Nigeria.
He said the project was currently at Front End Engineering Design (FEED) Phase and the gas field, which has a plateau of around 70,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day, similarly
pace of development is too slow.’
“I said, ‘Your Excellency, just finish the Enugu Air first.’ He said, no. As I speak to you, in the next few months, and few years, Enugu Airport will not be what you see here today. Private sector is coming into Enugu Airport, driven by the governor.
“We are running the airport at a loss because we don’t have the drive of the private sector. But Enugu will be a bigger international hub now and we are going to approve regional operations from here to African states.
“Bring your letter tomorrow we will approve it.”
The minister said despite being of a different political party from the governor, he could not hide the fact that the governor had performed and would be difficult to defeat in any election.
Keyamo told the governor, “Dr. Peter Mbah, you are PDP, but we are afraid of you. The way you are going, we don’t know what will happen. We don’t know how to draw a scheme to defeat you, but we will be planning.
“It is an incredible vision you have here. Mr. President has said it himself. I am only reflecting what the president said.
“Beyond party lines, we should not be afraid to say it. You have a progressive spirit and you have done well for Enugu State. You are one of the best performing governors.”
He urged the governor and the CEO of Enugu Air to ensure that the airline was run professionally like a business, while also urging the people of Enugu State to patronise their own airline.
Mbah described the launch of Enugu Air as “a triumph of vision, a testament to Nigeria’s immense aviation potential and economic renaissance”.
He explained that Enugu Air would expand beyond the present routes to various other Nigerian cities and beyond
Mbah stated, “We are starting off with three Embraer aircraft – efficient elegant birds made for our terrain. Our routes begin with a powerful golden triangle: Enugu to Abuja to Lagos. From there, we stretch our wings to Port Harcourt, Owerri, Benin, Kano, and across various other cities.
“But we are not stopping there. In
@DOGE if he’s just going to increase the debt by $5 trillion?” Musk wrote on X, referring to the government downsizing agency he briefly led.
Critics have said the bill will damage the U.S. economy by significantly adding to the federal budget deficit.
Musk said his new party would in next year’s midterm elections look to unseat Republican lawmakers in Congress who backed the sweeping measure known as the “big, beautiful bill,” according to a Reuters report.
Musk spent millions of dollars underwriting Trump’s 2024 re-election effort and, for a time, regularly showed up at the president’s side in the White House Oval Office and elsewhere.
Their disagreement over the spending bill led to a falling out that Musk briefly tried unsuccessfully to repair.
to Ubeta, was expected to get its FID in 2026.
Bouyer highlighted the company’s recent achievements, including a discovery in Ntokon two years ago, which is now progressing toward development, and the acquisition of additional new oil blocks in the past year.
On innovation and sustainability, Bouyer emphasised TotalEnergies’ commitment to cleaner operations.
“We’re deploying more advanced technology than ever to extract more oil and gas with fewer emissions. For instance, we use drone-based AUSEA (Airborne Ultralight Spectrometer for Environmental Application) technology on our upstream operations to detect methane leaks.
“We are also in partnership with NNPC Limited on this initiative. We’re
the next phase, we will fly beyond Nigeria, into other African countries, China, Europe, UK, US, and other global business hubs.”
He said Enugu Air was established to create jobs and career paths for the young people; a faster and more reliable access to markets, clients, and capital by business people; a simpler and more dignified access to home for the diaspora, and a ready gateway to collaboration and opportunity for investors interested in Enugu State.
The governor thanked President Bola Tinubu, Keyamo, and various agencies under the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Fidelity Bank, among others, for their support towards the realisation of the state carrier.
quality improvements, possible risk transfers, and longer-term business strategy tweaks.
The new directives were outlined in a circular signed by the Director of Banking Supervision, Dr. Olubukola Akinwunmi, published on the CBN’s website yesterday, are part of the central bank’s ongoing efforts to wind down the regulatory forbearance framework put in place during the COVID-19 crisis.
The transitional framework, according to the CBN, is designed to support affected banks in restoring full prudential compliance while promoting macro-financial stability.
The circular announced the termination of all COVID-19-era regulatory forbearance and waivers on Single Obligor Limits (SOL), effective June 30, 2025. This, it said, is aimed at restoring risk sensitivity in credit classification and provisioning.
To support asset quality clean-up, the apex bank has temporarily waived the requirement that banks retain fully provisioned loans for one year before write-off, enabling faster NonPerforming Loan (NPL) reduction for affected banks.
Additionally, the regulatory caps on Additional Tier 1 (AT1) capital recognition in the computation of Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) have been temporarily lifted from June 30, 2025, to March 31, 2026. The CBN clarified, however, that this
Trump has said Musk is unhappy because the measure, which Trump signed into law on Friday, takes away green-energy credits for Tesla’s electric vehicles. The president has threatened to pull billions of dollars Tesla and SpaceX receive in government contracts and subsidies in response to Musk’s criticism.
Trump in his social media comments also said it was “inappropriate” to have named Musk ally Jared Isaacman as NASA administrator considering Musk’s business with the space agency.
In December Trump named Isaacman, a billionaire private astronaut, to lead NASA but withdrew the nomination on May 31, before his Senate confirmation vote and without explanation.
Trump, who has yet to announce
here to support Nigeria, and we’re doing it sustainably,” he said.
Bouyer also spoke on the company’s integrated approach to energy, from exploration to retail, and its active role in the domestic gas market, particularly through its stake in Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Train 7.
He noted that while TotalEnergies’ renewable energy footprint in Nigeria was still modest, it remains a growing area of focus.
Bouyer told the audience that TotalEnergies was committed to Nigeria for the long term.
According to him, TotalEnergies EP Strategy of More Energy, Less Emissions was guiding all the company’s operations in Nigeria and aligns with the Nigerian government’s policies and programmes.
Earlier, Enugu State Commissioner for Transportation, Dr. Obi Ozor, assured that Enugu Air would live up to its dream.
Managing Director of Fidelity Bank PLC, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, and CEO of XEJet, Engr. Ayuba Emmanuel, described Mbah as a visionary and courageous leader. They assured the state of their continued partnership to actualise the governor’s dreams for the state.
The event witnessed a large turnout of Enugu people and was graced by many dignitaries, including Speaker of Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Uchenna Ugwu.
Enugu Air operated inaugural flights from Lagos to Enugu, and Enugu to Abuja.
move is “not a substitute” for the ongoing recapitalisation programme announced in March.
It stated: “In continuation of its commitment to safeguarding financial system stability and ensuring a credible and orderly exit from the regulatory forbearance regime introduced during the COVID-19 crisis, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) hereby communicates a coordinated set of transitional measures. These measures are designed to support affected banks in complying with prudential requirements while facilitating a smooth exit from temporary regulatory concessions.”
On the capital restoration plan, it stated: “To complement the above measures and ensure forward-looking capital planning, all affected banks are required to prepare and submit a comprehensive Capital Restoration Plan to the CBN on or before the 10th working day, following the end of the quarter with effect from June 30, 2025.
“The plan should detail the management’s proposed strategies to restore full regulatory compliance, including (but not limited to) cost optimisation initiatives, risk asset reduction, significant risk transfers, and necessary business model adaptations.
“The plan must cover the entire period until full normalisation of capital and asset quality indicators
a new NASA nominee confirmed media reports he disapproved of Isaacman’s previous support for Democratic politicians.
“I also thought it inappropriate that a very close friend of Elon, who was in the Space Business, run NASA, when NASA is such a big part of Elon’s corporate life,” Trump said on Truth Social. “My Number One charge is to protect the American Public,” he added.
Musk’s announcement of a new party immediately brought a rebuke from Azoria Partners, which said on Saturday it will postpone the listing of its Azoria Tesla Convexity exchange-traded fund because the party’s creation posed “a conflict with his full-time responsibilities as CEO.”
Azoria was set to launch the Tesla ETF this week.
Bouyer expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) for their continued support, which he said has positioned TotalEnergies ahead.
In his separate interventions at the session, Managing Director of SNEPCo, Adams, revealed the company’s plan of taking FID on Bonga Southwest-Aparo and HI fields, to further demonstrate its long-term play in Nigeria.
He said Bonga North deep water field which was now in the development phase, anticipates will hit its first oil by mid-2027.
SNEPCo is also developing the Iseni gas field to bring more gas to the surface.
Adams said, “So, clearly, there’s a lot going on, and just to remind us, we started December last year from a Shell standpoint. We had FID on the Bonga North project, which is a $5 billion U.S. project. The first of that nature in over a decade.
“I’m happy to say that we are well into execution with the Bonga North project. And that’s just the start. We’re talking about a project that’s going to bring at least 100,000 barrels of oil per day into the system.
“And we are pushing and working on an accelerated project schedule, which will perhaps see us bring first oil around the middle of 2027. So this is excellent work. It’s such a huge project.”
Aside Bonga North, Adams said Bonga Southwest-Aparo project, with an estimated cost of $8 billion was also on its way to FID.
“I’m happy to say that there’s another particular project that has
are achieved. Plans submitted will be subject to regulatory review and approval, and will form the basis for continuous supervisory monitoring and engagement throughout the transition.”
Furthermore, on guidelines issued for immediate implementation and full compliance, it stated: “ Effective June 30, 2025, all COVID-19-related regulatory forbearance and waivers on Single Obligor Limits (SOL) shall be terminated. This step is aimed at restoring risk sensitivity in credit classification, provisioning, and asset quality assessments.
“Affected banks must align all impacted credit exposures with existing CBN Prudential Guidelines and other relevant regulations.
“To support asset quality cleanup, the requirement to retain fully provisioned loans for one year before write-off is temporarily waived for forbearance related facilities Banks may proceed with write-offs to reduce their Non-Performing Loan (NPL) ratios, provided internal governance requirements for such write-offs are met.”
Also, on restrictions on use of transitional reliefs, it stated that to ensure that retained earnings are conserved for capital strengthening and systemic risk mitigation, banks benefiting from these transitional concessions must adhere strictly to suspension of dividend payments.
been talked about, has gotten close to approval for perhaps more than two decades. I’m happy to say that the Bonga Southwest-Aparo project is well on its way.
“A lot of work has been done in the last several months. And as we all have been saying, the stars are currently aligned. In other words, if we cannot get this project FID this time, then perhaps it will never happen.
“So the kind of incentives, the kind of progress that this government has made, and the type of collaboration that’s taking place now, this is the best time for us. This is an $8 billion project. Again, think about that, adding on top of Bonga North”, he said. He thanked the federal government for working hard with all stakeholders to improve the environment and encourage investments in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, adding that the kind of collaboration happening in the industry now had never happened in the past.
Adams equally advised that government incentives and policies must also focus on unlocking Nigeria’s non-associated gas potential. In that regard, he said whilst SNEPCo was working with the NNPC and the government, the company was also looking at specific projects which will have the ability to unlock significant gas reserves.
“I’m talking about HI, which is in shallow water right now. And let me just say, in terms of FID, we are exceptionally close to FID on HI.
“This is more gas. And therefore, this is gas that will also go towards feeding NLNG. Again, this just demonstrates that Nigeria plays an important role in the gas space”, Adams noted.
Besides, it listed that bonuses to directors and senior management, and investments in foreign subsidiaries, as outlined in the CBN’s circular dated June 13, 2025, should be suspended. These restrictions, it said, remain in force until capital levels and provisioning are fully restored to regulatory compliance.
“To promote regulatory transparency and support supervisory oversight, all banks are required to submit the following quarterly disclosures, effective June 30, 2025: Detailed provisioning status and reconciliation of affected credit exposures.
“CAR calculations with and without transitional reliefs. Classification migration data for restructured or impacted loan facilities. Comprehensive disclosure of AT1 instruments, including issuance terms, usage, and related conditions. The submission should reach the Director of Banking Supervision, not later than 10 working days following the end of the quarter with effect from June 30, 2025,” the CBN added.
The CBN urged all affected banks to stay closely engaged with its Banking Supervision Department for guidance as they navigate the transition. It also said it expects banks to fully embrace the measures, stick to strong risk management practices, and help strengthen confidence and stability in the financial system.
Abuja
Azoria CEO James Fishback posted on X several critical comments about the new party and reiterated his support for Trump.
“I encourage the Board to meet immediately and ask Elon to clarify his political ambitions and evaluate whether they are compatible with his full-time obligations to Tesla as CEO,” Fishback said.
President Donald Trump
LAWYER
TUeSday, JUly8, 2025
Borno STaTe aTTorney-General and CommiSSioner for JUSTiCe, mrS
HaUwa aBUBakar
‘In Borno, it’s Zero
Tolerance for Human Rights Abuse’
of the Personal Right of Appeal of a Deceased Person
Page IV
‘We operate in an atmosphere of grand impunity. The rule of law is hardly observed by Governments, in our country. It is as if we are still under a military dictatorship, in many instances’. - Femi Falana, SAN, Human Rights Activist and Lawyer
NBA-SBL Conference Panelists:‘AI is Here to Stay, its a Tool’
Page V
Babalakin & Co Celebrates 37 Years of Law Practice with Art Exhibition and Competition
Page V
CMSA Conference: Nigeria on Track with Power Reforms
Sloganeering and Nigeria’s Administration of Justice Sector
Sloganeering
Nigeria is a country where we love sloganeering about anything and everything, including our own sector, justice and law enforcement. Yet, we never really deeply consider the essence of the slogans or sayings, let alone put them in practice. “The Judiciary is the last hope of the common man”; “Justice delayed is justice denied”; “The law is the foundation of civilisation”; “The Police are the guardians of society”; “Injustice anywhere, is a threat to justice everywhere“ (Martin Luther King Jr); and, even our very own Nigerian homegrown saying, “Police is your friend”. Unfortunately, what we see in reality, is the opposite translation of these sayings in our everyday life - such as, justice very much delayed; and Police is your enemy!...
The Last Hope of the Common Man
As a result of the activities of some bad eggs, the public perception of the Judiciary has been at an all-time low for a good number of years, while it is seen by many as the last hope of the ‘privileged’ man, and not the common man. For example, a conservative estimate of about 60% to 70% of crimes that people are arrested for, are committed by the common man, and even though Section 36(5) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) (the Constitution) provides for the presumption of innocence until proven guilty, many accused persons are treated as if they are guilty from the onset and are left to languish in jail for years, awaiting trial without bail being granted to them by the courts, despite the time lines for prosecution of criminal cases set in Section 35(3)-(5) of the Constitution. The population of awaiting trial inmates is estimated at up to 70% of the prison population, apparently far exceeding that of actual convicts serving prison sentences.
Cases of more privileged accused persons, move faster (that is, if they want their cases to move fast). The election cases whose timelines are set in Section 285 of the Constitution are strictly adhered to, while those set by the same Constitution for criminal cases are ignored by the law enforcement agents, Prosecutors and courts, as if they don’t even exist! Call it inequity, inequality before the law, injustice, antithetical to the purpose of the Constitution which is to promote equality, equity and fairness amongst all Nigerians. It is the epitome of justice delayed is justice denied, which, in reality, offers little or no hope for the common man - the opposite of these slogans that are regularly chanted.
Police is Your Friend; So are EFCC, SSS et al! Really?
1) Tools of Intimidation and Oppression
As for the Nigeria Police Force and the other law enforcement agencies, they are only guardians of society when they choose to be, and friends of whom they choose to be, not everybody. Many a time, they are accused of not following due process and disregarding the rule of law to the detriment of citizens, and instead, breaching the law with gusto and aplomb - wasn’t this what the 2020 #EndSARS Protest was all about? A protest against the bad behaviour of the SARS Department of the Police? These agencies have sometimes also allowed themselves to be used as tools of oppression of the more powerful or the highest bidder, against others. The cases of ‘Senathug’ Abbo, former CCT Chairman, Danladi Umar and ‘Dishonourable’ Ikwechegh, readily come to mind. They were the ones who allegedly committed assault against common women (Abbo) and common men (Umar and Ikwechegh), yet, they were able to use the Police to intimidate their victims. Nigeria will never forget the unprecedented October 2016 DSS midnight raid on the homes of Judicial Officers, as if they were violent criminals who had been placed on the Most Wanted list. See Section 4 of the Police Act 2020 (PA) on the primary functions of the Police. Similarly, agencies like the EFCC and DSS also face the same accusations of abuse of power. See Section 6 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Act 2004 on the functions of the EFCC, and Section 2(3) of the National Security Agencies Act 1986x on the functions of the State Security Service (SSS).
2) Acting Outside the Purview of their Duties Secondly, it appears that people are able to make use of the Police to settle civil disputes such as contractual matters, landlord and tenant, bank loans and debts, thereby violating citizens’ rights like the right to liberty and freedom of movement guaranteed by Sections 35 & 41(1) of the Constitution. Police and other agencies accept spurious petitions written by so-called Complainants, knowing very well that they are civil in nature, and use them to harass people, sometimes detaining them until they give written undertakings or concede to the demands of the Complainants. Some have also accused the EFCC of engaging in activities such as debt collection, and placing PNDs on people’s accounts without following due process, usually at the behest of ‘strong’ individuals.
The current EFCC Chairman, had promised that bad eggs would be weeded out from his Agency, and discipline, instilled. How well has that promise been kept? In Skye Bank Plc v Njoku & Ors (2016) LPELR-40447 (CA) per Ita George Mbaba, JCA, the Court of Appeal cited its decision in Ogbonna v Ogbonna (2014) LPELR-22308(CA) where it held that: “...a party that employs the Police or any law enforcement agency to violate the fundamental rights of a citizen, should be ready to face the consequences, either alone or with the misguided Agency.…The Police have no business helping parties to settle or recover debts. We have also
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The Advocate
“Nigeria is a country where we love sloganeering about anything and everything….Yet, we never really deeply consider the essence of the slogans or sayings, let alone put them in practice…..“The Judiciary is the last hope of the common man”….“Police is your friend”….Unfortunately, what we see in reality, is the opposite translation of these sayings in our everyday life-such as, justice very much delayed; and Police is your enemy! in the expression of William Shakespeare in “Hamlet”- these slogans/sayings are just “Words, Words, Words”- a “meaningless collection of words”
deprecated the resort by aggrieved creditors to the Police to arrest their debtors, using one guise of criminal wrong doing or another…. Maybe... the Public Officer or law enforcement agency that allows himself to be used by any member of the public to commit illegality that results in damages and liability to the agency or government, should be made to pay such cost or damages, personally, either in part or in whole….”. I concur. Unfortunately, many of the monetary judgements obtained against Government, its agencies like the Police and officers are rendered nugatory, because of Section 84 of Sheriffs and Civil Process Act 1945 which provides for the requirement of the consent of the AGF or a State AG (depending on the circumstances) to attach the funds of Government or its agencies in any Bank when judgements are entered against them, consent that may not be easy to obtain, if at all. See the case of CBN v Inalegwu Franklin Ochife, IGP & 2 Ors (2025) LPELR-80220(SC) per Habeeb Adewale Olumuyiwa Abiru JSC and Helen Moronkeji Ogunwumiju, JSC.
In the case of Skye Bank Plc v Njoku & Ors (Supra), the Applicant had filed an application for the enforcement of his fundamental rights based on harassment and detention by the Police, in connection with a civil contract concerning a bank loan. The Bank had used the Police to recover the debt, and the Applicant claimed that he was locked in the Police cell where he was forced to sign cheques. The trial court awarded the Applicant N10 million damages, and the Court of Appeal affirmed the decision of the lower court.
3) Creating their Own Rules Outside the Provisions of the Law Aside from acting outside the purview of the functions set out in their establishment laws, law enforcement agencies sometimes appear to create their own rules outside the law, as they go along. Section 35(2) of the Constitution accords a person arrested or detained, the right to remain silent, or avoid answering questions until he/she consults a legal practitioner. In Nigeria, that right to remain silent is ignored and abused, and many accused persons claim that their statements are taken by the Police by force, which may mean by means of torture, and also in the absence of their legal practitioner, so much so that trials-within-trial to ascertain the voluntariness of confessional state-
criminal investigation thus, refers to the process of collecting information (or evidence) about a crime in order to, (1) Determine if the crime has been committed (2) Identify the perpetrator (3) Apprehend the perpetrator (4) Provide evidence to support a conviction on it” - this decision, clearly evinces the fact that what is expected of the Police, is to undertake a thorough investigation prior to an accused person being arrested, not that that an arrest must necessarily be made immediately upon receipt of a complaint. Law enforcement must look at the circumstances of each case. Of course, in some cases where the accused person has been caught in the process of committing the crime, or maybe two people were fighting in public and one stabbed and killed the other in the presence of witnesses, in such circumstances, there is enough reasonable suspicion to arrest an accused person immediately.
ments, are common place in criminal trials. These confessional statements, usually form the main body of evidence used to convict accused persons in Nigeria. Is it not curious how most accused persons across Nigeria, all admit to being the perpetrator of the crimes they are arrested for?! And, beyond that, not much investigation into the commission of the crime is done? The then so-called confessional statement, is then used to secure the conviction. What ‘winning’ method do the Police and other law enforcement use, to extract confessional statements from accused persons, making them have ‘open and shut’ criminal cases?! See the Anti-Torture Act 2017. Though Section 35(3) of the Constitution provides that an individual can be arrested on reasonable suspicion of committing an offence, Section 3 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015 (ACJA) doesn’t help matters at all, as it allows a suspect alleged to have committed a crime to be arrested even before investigation. However, Section 1(1) & (3) of the Constitution proclaims its bindingness on all persons and authorities in Nigeria, and its supremacy over all laws, so that any law that is inconsistent with the provisions of the Constitution stands null and void to the extent of its inconsistency. Therefore, if the Constitution states that there must be reasonable suspicion before arrest, then arrest on a mere allegation whether by means of a petition or otherwise, without any proof, doesn’t appear to meet the constitutional requirement of reasonable suspicion for arrest.
4) Allegation and Reasonable Suspicion Allege and Reasonable suspicion, mean two different things. To allege is to make an assertion without proof. See the case of Liman v State (2016) LPELR-40260 (CA) per Amina Audi Wambai, JCA where the Court of Appeal held thus: “allegation is a mere statement stating that someone has done something wrong or illegal. It is an assertion by a party to a legal action, of what the party undertakes to prove. In relation to criminal investigation and trial, it is a positive assertion or statement made by a person to the Police against another, accusing the other of the commission of a crime and for the purpose of having the statement investigated by the Police”. Wambai, JCA also held “A
In Director, S.S.S. v Ibrahim (2016) LPELR-41618 (CA) per Oludotun Adebola Adefope-Okojie, JCA, the Court of Appeal held thus: “….Black's Law Dictionary, 8th Edition, Page 1487 defines the term "reasonable suspicion" as“A particularised and objective basis, supported by specific and articulable facts, for suspecting a person of criminal activity”. In my humble view, for there to be reasonable suspicion to justify an arrest by the Police, the test is objective based upon the facts of each case”. It is obvious from this definition of reasonable suspicion, that the Police do not always have evidence that meets this criteria before effecting arrests, and that Section 35(3) of the Constitution contemplates the arrest of an individual only when a decent amount of evidence has been gathered or found by the Police, while Section 3 of ACJA appears to allow for the arrest of an individual on a mere allegation, even without reasonable suspicion. I submit that the latter is not only unconstitutional, but doesn’t conform to best practices. In the UK for instance, the Police must have reasonable grounds for suspicion before an arrest is made; not just a flimsy report or a civil matter so clumsily coated as a criminal one, that even a person who has no training in the law can easily see that it isn’t a criminal matter.
Conclusion
There are so many processes abused and carried out wrongly, within our administration of justice sector. When an individual is called to respond to an allegation by the Police or EFCC for instance, no matter how flimsy or baseless the allegation is, or whether it is clearly one that is a civil, contractual matter that doesn’t fall within the duties of law enforcement, such call translates into being more or less an arrest, and the Respondent must bail themselves out to leave the place. See Skye Bank Plc v Njoku & Ors (Supra). But, if best practices are applied, such Respondent should be released without any ado. Remember last year, I mentioned the story of a Foreigner who narrated his ordeal to me; how a Nigerian who was in breach of their civil supply contract, used the Police to arrest and extort money from him. A criminal element was then introduced into the matter by the Police to justify their unlawful activity, and he was forced to sign some bail document accusing him of stealing or obtaining by false pretences or something like that, in order to regain his freedom. His Embassy was also not informed of his arrest. See the case of Diamond Bank v Opara & Ors (2018) LPELR-43907(SC) per Sidi Dauda Bage, JSC on illegal detention by Police, and coercion to pay money to be released on bail. The other day, I went to buy some medication, and again, I was told that the company manufacturing it in Nigeria has left. I actually prefer the made in Nigeria version of the medication, as opposed to its foreign equivalent. But, it is issues such as the lawlessness of law enforcement agencies and a general disregard for the rule of law, that reduce the attractiveness of Nigeria as a place for foreigners to visit or do business, or even for we Nigerians ourselves!
While USA tops the list as the country criticised the most for Police brutality and harassment of citizens, Nigeria also ranks very high on the list, about fourth place, right behind South Africa and India. This is not a good report. It is time to change this negative narrative, and make the slogans about justice and law enforcement a reality for all Nigerians, common man and privileged alike. For a while now, in the expression of William Shakespeare in “Hamlet” - these slogans/sayings are just “Words, Words, Words” - a “meaningless collection of words”. The story of the lawlessness of law enforcement, hasn't ended yet. This is just the beginning.....
Inspector General of police, kayode egbetokun
chief Justice of nigeria, kudirat kekereekun, Gcon eFcc chairman, ola olukoyede
Exercisability of the Personal Right of Appeal of a Deceased Person
Fact
s
The 1st Respondent filed an Originating Summons at the High Court of Kaduna State, claiming inter alia against the Appellant and the 2nd Respondent, a declaration that all the moveable property listed in the Schedule to the Sale Agreement annexed as Exhibit B to the affidavit are vested in the 1st Respondent; a declaration that all the land measuring 53.92 acres situate at Kaduna Bye Pass and covered by Certificate of Occupancy No. NC 7514 registered as No KDR 96 at Page 96 in Volume 25 at the Kaduna State Land Registry are vested in the 1st Respondent.
The case of the 1st Respondent as Claimant was that the Appellant – a company in receivership, acting through its receiver/manager - the 2nd Respondent, sold the subject moveable property and land to the 1st Respondent. The 1st Respondent claimed that despite having paid the full purchase price to the Appellant, the Appellant failed to handover the moveable property and land to the 1st Respondent. The trial court heard arguments of Counsel in respect of the Originating Summons, and granted the orders sought by the 1st Respondent.
Aggrieved, Alhaji Tijani Dagazau, who was not a party at the trial court, appealed to the Court of Appeal after being granted leave to appeal as an interested party. Alhaji Tijani Dagazau was the 1st Appellant, while the Appellant was the 2nd Appellant; however, Alhaji Tijani Dagazau died while proceedings were still pending before the Court of Appeal. After hearing the appeal, the Court of Appeal dismissed it. Thereafter, the Appellant lodged a further appeal at the Supreme Court. The parties filed and exchanged their respective briefs of argument.
The 1st Respondent also filed a Notice of Preliminary Objection challenging the competence of the appeal, which was argued in its brief of argument. The grounds of the preliminary objection were that: (a) the Appellant’s Counsel had no locus to commence the appeal for the Appellant and on behalf of Alhaji Tijani Dagazau who had been deceased long before the appeal was commenced, or to appear in representation of the deceased; (b) The Appellant was estopped by deed under Section 169 of the Evidence Act, 2011; (c) The Appellant was estopped by a consent judgement; (d) the appeal was not authorised by a proper party in the person of the Alhaji Tijani Dagazau who was since deceased, and at whose instance the appeal at the Court of Appeal was commenced; and (e) The 2nd Respondent, being the receiver, is the proper person to sue on behalf of the Appellant and not the Company itself.
Resolution of 1st Respondent’s Notice of Preliminary Objection
The Apex Court considered the following issue in its determination in 1st Respondent’s Notice of Preliminary Objection: Whether the firm of J. B. Daudu & Co., the Counsel for the deceased 1st Appellant at the lower court, has the locus to appear for the Appellant in the instant appeal.
Arguments
It was argued by Counsel for the 1st Respondent, that Counsel on record purportedly acting on behalf of the Appellant did not have the locus or proper instructions to initiate and prosecute the instant appeal on behalf of the present Appellant, as Alhaji Tijani Dagazau, the 1st Appellant at the lower court whom they represented, had died. It was further argued that the right of appeal invoked by the late Alhaji Tijani Dagazau was a personal right which was exercised before the hearing of the appeal at the Court of Appeal before he died, and his Counsel failed to bring this to the knowledge of the court as against Order 15 Rule 1 of the Court of Appeal Rules and Rules 15(3)(b); 15(3)(c) and 15(3)(e) of the Rules of Professional Conduct 2007. Counsel also argued that the 2nd Respondent is the proper person to sue on behalf of the Appellant in the instant case and not the Company itself or J. B. Daudu & Co., who was the Counsel on record for the 1st Appellant at the lower court. Reference was made to the case of INTERCONTRACTORS (NIG) LTD v U.A.C. (1988) 2 NWLR (PT. 76) 303. In response, Counsel for the Appellant argued in
Honourable Mohammed Baba Idris, JSC
In the Supreme Court of Nigeria Holden at abuja
On Friday, the 31st day of January, 2025
Before their lordships uwani Musa abba aji Chioma egondu Nwosu-Iheme Obande Festus Ogbuinya Habeeb adewale Olumuyiwa abiru Mohammed Baba Idris Justices, Supreme Court SC/415/2011
Between daGaZau CaRPeTS lIMITed aPPellaNT And
1. BOKIR INTeRNaTIONal COMPaNy lIMITed ReSPONdeNTS
2. MR dIPO ONIFade
(Lead Judgement delivered by Honourable Mohammed Baba Idris, JSC)
their reply brief of argument filed in response to the 1st and 2nd Respondent’s brief and the 1st Respondent’s Notice of Preliminary objection, that a party such as the Appellant, who has been granted leave to appeal as an interested party, needs no other permission from any person to further appeal a decision emanating from the same case he has been granted leave to appeal in. Counsel argued further that the Appellant who was the 2nd Appellant at the lower court has the constitutional right to appeal the lower court’s decision to protect its interest, and that the only person who can challenge an instruction to Counsel is the party the Counsel holds himself to act for.
Court’s Decision on Notice of Preliminary Objection and Rationale
The Supreme Court held that the right to appeal may survive a deceased party to a cause or matter, but such right must be exercised by a living person or persons. The Apex Court referred to its decision in NIGERIAN NURSES ASSOCIATION & ORS v A-G, FEDERATION (1981) LPELR – 2027 (SC).
"The right to appeal may survive a deceased party to a cause or matter, but, such right must be exercised by a living person or persons”
The Court held that when the 1st Appellant at the lower Court – Alhaji Tijani Dagazau died, the right he had when he brought the appeal at the lower court died with him, and when it came to the knowledge of the lower court that the 1st Appellant had died, the court should have made the necessary pronouncement in that regard. The Court also held that the Appellant ceases to act personally with the appointment of the 2nd Respondent as receiver; thus, the appeal with the Appellant as the 2nd Appellant in its capacity at the lower court becomes incompetent. The Court held further that the problem did not lie in the Counsel representing the Appellant in the instant appeal, since the Appellant is not disputing its instruction to the Counsel to represent it, particularly as the same Counsel had acted on behalf of the Appellant as 2nd Appellant at the lower court; and if the Appellant chose to retain the service of the Counsel, the court cannot dispute it. However, the problem lies with the capacity of the Appellant in this appeal which has no locus standi to file the appeal in the first place, and was in fact not a proper party to the appeal at the lower court, upon the appointment of the 2nd Respondent. The
Court found on the whole that, there was merit in the 1st Respondent’s preliminary objection and the appeal as constituted is incompetent and not maintainable.
The 1st Respondent’s Notice of Preliminary Objection was thus, Sustained.
Notwithstanding the finding of the Supreme Court on the 1st Respondent’s Notice of Preliminary Objection, the Supreme Court still proceeded to address issues raised in the main appeal which it considered substantial.
Issues for Determination in Main Appeal
1. Whether the judgement and orders of the Court of Appeal in this matter are not a nullity as the court heard the appeal and delivered the judgement with the knowledge that Alhaji Tijani Dagazau, the 1st Appellant, was dead.
2. Having regard to the reliefs sought in the originating summons which is for declaration of title to land, possession thereof and of moveables thereon, whether the originating procedure was lawful in the circumstances.
3. Whether the decision of the court below was correct, to the effect that the absence of viva voce evidence did not vitiate the proceedings relating to declaratory reliefs over the property before the High Court and by extension, the entire proceedings.
4. Whether the Court of Appeal was correct in law when it held that the cause of action though rooted in the acts of a receiver over the assets of a company in receivership, was properly adjudicated upon by the Kaduna State High Court instead of the Federal High Court.
5. Whether the Court of Appeal was in error when it failed to hold as argued before, it that the 2nd Respondent ought to have obtained the leave of the Federal High Court to defend action in his capacity as receiver.
Court’s Judgement and Rationale
On the 1st issue, the Apex Court maintained its position in its finding on the 1st Respondent’s Notice of Preliminary Objection. The Court held further that the judgement of the Court of Appeal was a nullity because the 1st Appellant at whose instance the appeal was filed died during the pendency of the appeal, and secondly, because the Appellant as 2nd Appellant before the lower Court was not a proper party being a party purporting to appeal in its name instead of showing that it is a party through receivership.
On the 2nd and 3rd issue, the Apex Court held that originating summons procedure involves a situation where the evidence in the main, is by way of documents and there is no serious dispute as to their existence in the dealings of the parties to the suit, and in such a situation what a Plaintiff is claiming is a declaration of his rights. The Supreme Court held that in the case at hand, there were no material facts from the affidavit in support of the Originating Summons that required resolution by calling of oral evidence, because the 1st Respondent had provided adequate documentary evidence in support of its application.
On the 4th issue, the Apex Court held that the case of the 1st Respondent which was for the court to make a pronouncement to affirm its true position by its agreement with the Appellant acting in receivership, was a matter of simple contract. The Court held that Section 251 of the 1999 Constitution as amended which prescribes the matters in which the Federal High Court can exercise jurisdiction does not cover simple contract and/or negligence emanating from such a contract such as the instant matter.
On the 5th issue, the Court held that there is nowhere in the Company and Allied Matters Act where a receiver not appointed by the court such as the 2nd Respondent, should apply for and obtain the leave of court to sue or defend.
The Supreme Court resolved all the issues in the main appeal in favour of the Respondents. Appeal Dismissed.
Representation
J. B. Daudu, SAN with A. Adedeji, SAN and others for the Appellant.
J. K. Gadzama, SAN and others for the 1st Respondent.
A. V. Etuwewe, SAN and others for the 2nd Respondent.
NBA-SBL Conference
AI is Here to Stay, its a Tool’
Stories by Steve Aya
Nigerian Lawyers have been advised to see current Technology and Innovation drive reshaping law and Business Laws worldwide, as a blessing. This is the view of the Panelists at the 2nd day of the Nigerian Bar Association’s Section on Business Law (NBA-SBL) 19th Annual International Business Law Conference, which just ended at the Harbour Point Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The Second day of the well attended signature event, the 19th since its Section’s inception, was graced by the cream of Nigeria’s business law community, who were joined by legal professionals from jurisdictions further afield, as well as by leading players from the business, professional and academic worlds, were drowned by the topic of the first plenary session of the day ‘Technology and Innovation: Reshaping Business Law’.
Drawing from their personal,
courtroom and general experience, the Panelists made up of Mrs Yemisi Diya-Salawu, Director Legal, IHS Towers; Mr. Oswald Guobadia, Managing Founder, DigitA; Mr. Nkem Nweke, Growth Advancement Partner, Lagos Business School, Pan Atlantic University; Ms Stephanie Brown, Law Society, England and Mr Uzoma Dozie, Founder, Sparkle, shared deep insights of how they were able to use AI and present day technological advancement, to save both cost and time in their work.
While accepting the fact that there are disadvantages, they all stress that the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages, noting that AI should be seen as a working tool and that Lawyers must all the time do their due diligence at the workplace, regardless of the positive impact of AI.
The 2025 NBA-SBL International Conference, whose theme was ‘The Future of Business Law in an Intelligence Age’, was formally declared
open on on Tuesday July 2, 2025 by the Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was ably represented at the occasion by the Secretary to the Government of the State, Mrs Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin.
The Keynote Speaker, His Royal Highness, the Sarki (Emir) of Kano, Khalifa Muhammad Sanusi II, which was delivered on his behalf by his Chief Counsellor, Alhaji Bashir Mahe. Bashir Wali (the Walin Kano) noted that the recent advances in technology, but more essentially, to the evolution of society, adding that it represents an inquiry into capacity in an
era defined by deep shifts.
“We are not approaching an era of transformation”, he said. “We are in it. We find ourselves at a critical juncture in human history, where the rapid advancement of technology is fundamentally reshaping every facet of our lives. Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning, big data, and blockchain are no longer buzzwords; they have become integral parts of our personal and professional environments.”
The Emir however, warned, that the enormous power afforded by advances in
tech are not without equally enormous challenges, notably in the following three areas: regulatory compliance and adaptation; consumer protection in the digital space; and intellectual property in the age of AI. To navigate and surmount these challenges, the monarch said, the Nigerian legal industry must harness technology through solutions that simplify tasks such as contract review, e-discovery and compliance monitoring, and to embrace tools like AI-driven analytics, with a view to increasing efficiency and focusing on higher-level
strategic thinking.
The opening ceremony also featured welcoming remarks by the Chairman of the NBASBL, Mrs Ozofu ‘Latunde Ogiemudia; President of the NBA, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, as well as goodwill messages by the AttorneyGeneral of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, which was delivered on his behalf by Wada Ahmed Wada, the Special Assistant to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on Special Duties, in the office of the Attorney-General of the Federation.
Babalakin & Co Celebrates 37 Years of Law Practice with Art Exhibition and Competition
One of Nigeria’s commercial law firms, Babalakin & Co, recently commemorated its 37th anniversary by hosting its maiden Art Competition and Exhibition at its Victoria Island office.
The event, a groundbreaking move blending legal excellence with cultural enrichment, which is the first of its kind, was attended by a mix of top legal luminaries, diplomats,
CMSA Conference: Nigeria on Track with Power Reforms
Nigeria’s current power reforms, have been praised as a step in the right direction.
Speaking with Journalists during a sideline interview, at the 2025 Annual Business Summit of the Capital Market Solicitors Association (CMSA), which held on June 25 at the Oriental Hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos, former Governor of Bauchi State, Mohammed Abubakar, SAN, applauded the constitutional amendment and Electricity Act reforms, which now empower State Governments (“subnationals”) to generate, transmit, and distribute electricity independently of the Federal Government.
He maintained that the recent amendment of the Constitution, removing power from the exclusive list and taking it to the concurrent legislative list, has now opened up space for sub-nationals to participate in this sector. Coupled with the fact that the Electricity Act was
also amended, and it has been made receptive for participation by sub-nationals in the sector.
“As it is, if you have heard, already some sub-nationals, some States, are gearing up to participate fully in this sector.
“And I feel happy about that, happy for Nigerians, that probably for the first time, we are going to conquer this issue of stable power supply in Nigeria.” Further, he said: “In the past, you could only generate electricity outside the Federal Government, but, you cannot distribute electricity. But, today, you can do all that. And, in doing that, the Act has allowed you to attract investment from outside Nigeria to be able to stabilise power supply”.
Also speaking along the same lines, Chief Anthony Idigbe, SAN further noted that, the power sector reforms are about the last of the reforms needed to free the economy.
“Energy is one of the
last remaining areas for resolution. The Government has successfully resolved the exchange rate differentials and fuel subsidy, but what people don’t know is that there is a great subsidy issue in energy as well. And, the current power reform, gives us the opportunity to address it.’’
Idigbe, who further spoke on the economic and investment opportunities that the reforms presents, added that very soon, electric tariff will come down and Nigerians will be better off because of the incoming investment.
In her Keynote Address, the Hon. Minister of State Finance, Dr Doris Uzoka–Anite, who was represented by Mr Peter Olusegun Awoyemi, a Director in the Ministry of Finance, expressed her appreciation to the CMSA for the consistent stewardship of the legal framework that underpins the nation’s financial architecture.
“Your dedication since
2001 has ensured that the legal ecosystem of our capital market, remains dynamic and responsive to emerging realities.’’
Speaking on the Investment and Securities Act 2025, which is the theme of the Conference, the Minister said that the unveiling of the Investment and Securities Act 2025 represents more than legislative housekeeping, as it is a transformational moment in the trajectory of Nigeria’s financial and capital market reforms.
“By repealing the 2007 Act, this new legislation arrives at a critical juncture when Nigeria's market must compete for capital, defend investor confidence, and align with global best practices’’, Dr Uzoka–Anite stated further.
The well attended Conference had plenary sessions where discussions where centred on law, security, power, investments, and the challenges facing the economy.
artists, and art enthusiasts, spotlighting 26 curated works selected from over 250 entries nationwide.
Speaking at the event, the Managing Partner of the firm Mr. Olawale Akoni, SAN, stated the underlying rationale behind the initiative.
“We believe that the practice of law is not something that should be tunnel-visioned, we thought it was important to contribute to society and develop upcoming artists who have a vision”, he remarked.
He further emphasised how the 37 year-old firm’s “legacy in legal development”, is now expanding to nurture creativity and national hope through art. He also said that the competition’s prize structure, reflected serious investment in Nigeria’s emerging arts.
The Art pieces were judged across painting, drawing, and sculpture by an esteemed panel, including Sehinde Odimayo and Dotun Sulaiman .
The top three winners, Aaron Ajogwu, Glory Innocent, and Abdlquadr Ojelade - shared N9 million in awards (N5 million, N2.5 million and N1.5 million
respectively), while the public-voted “Viewer’s Choice”, Ezichi Nkwocha, earned N1 million . Akoni, SAN also described this as “a meaningful investment in the artists’ futures”, and further affirmed that the event will be an annual event henceforth, sponsored by the firm. The highlight of the evening was the presence of dignitaries such as Joellen Borg, Acting U.S. Consul General in Lagos, who praised the artists’ innovative fusion of tradition and contemporary expression, and reaffirmed the U.S. Consulate’s support for Nigeria’s creative industries.
The Chairman of Leaders and Company Limited, Publisher of ThisDay Newspaper, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, as well as several top Lawyers, were also present at the event.
Founded in July 1988 by Dr Wale Babalakin, SAN, a Cambridge educated legal mind whose firm has grown to over 70 Lawyers and multiple SANs across Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. The firm is known for it's strong presence in commercial law, litigation, and infrastructure projects.
L-R: Former NBA President, Mr Olumide Akpata, Dr Adeoye Adefulu, Immediate Past Chair of NBA-SBL, Mrs Ozofu ‘Latunde Ogiemudia Chair NBA-SBL, Pioneer Chairman, NBA-SBL, Mr George Etomi, Past Chair NBA-SBL, Mr Gbenga Oyebode, MFR
L-R: Adeniji Duale; Sola Ephraim-Oluwanuga; Johson Akinnawo; Simisola Eyisanmi; and Vincent Iweze
Introduction
The Independent National Electoral Commission (The Commission) is constitutionally, legally, and administratively obligated to register any Association that meets the prescribed threshold for registration. That is the essence of constitutional democracy, founded on the law and due process. This obligation is grounded in the fact that the Commission is a creation of the Constitution and the law, and political parties are also products of the Constitution and the law; neither should exist to undermine the other.
In a constitutional democracy, political parties play a mobilisation role by channelling their constitutions, principles, and policies, which enable registered voters to trust them with political power. In our circumstances, only registered political parties are empowered to canvass for votes, and sponsor candidates for the various elective positions outlined in the constitution and the law. Political parties, therefore, play a strategic role in our multi-party democracy.
Being a creation of the Constitution and the law, can the Commission decline or refuse to register Associations that meet the constitutional, legal, and administrative threshold for registration? In other words, is the Commission permitted to exercise its discretion to limit the number of political parties in Nigeria and determine that we do not require additional parties? Within the context of multi-party democracy, does the country need additional political parties, given that there are currently 19 registered political parties, and 74 political parties were deregistered just before the 2023 general election? Does the country need an additional 104 Associations that have applied to be registered as political parties? Are the existing political parties, sufficient for a country like Nigeria? Fundamentally, are there ideological differences among the current political parties, or are they merely 'general purpose vehicles’ for contesting elections? Are there aspects of the Constitution and the Law that should be changed to make our political parties more structured, ideologically focused, and goal-oriented?
The Constitution and the Law
The registration, regulation, and administration of political parties in Nigeria are problematic, challenging, and a judicial nightmare. In every constitutional and electoral reform initiative, the registration, regulation, and internal democracy within political parties have been a recurring theme. Certain themes and issues are flagged, each time the debate takes centre stage. We are told that Nigeria is a liberal democracy, and that the regime of party registration must be liberalised to facilitate the consolidation of multi-party democracy. We hear narratives suggesting that in the United States and India, there are multiple parties, with the larger ones evolving, and the smaller ones continuing to exist and contest minor elections.
In Nigeria, political parties are constitutional beings. While every Nigerian has a fundamental right to peaceful assembly and association, Section 40 of the Constitution circumscribes that right. Section 40 of the Constitution provides that ‘every person shall be entitled to assemble freely and associate with other persons, and in particular he may form or belong to any political party, trade union or any other association for the protection of his interests: Provided that the provisions of this section shall not derogate from the powers conferred by this Constitution on the Independent National Electoral Commission with respect to political parties to which that Commission does not accord recognition’.
Furthermore, Section 221 of the Constitution provides that ‘No association, other than a political party, shall canvass for votes for any candidate at any election or contribute to the funds of any political party or to the election expenses of any candidate at an election’.
The challenge with party registration is in Section 222 of the Constitution, this accounts for the deluge of applications pending before the Commission for party registration. Section 222 of the Constitution provides that ‘No association by whatever name called shall function as a party, unless – (a) the names and addresses of its national officers are registered with the Independent National Electoral Commission; (b) the membership of the association is open to every citizen of Nigeria irrespective of his place of origin, circumstance of birth, sex, religion or ethnic grouping; a copy of its constitution is registered in the principal office of the Independent National Electoral Commission in such form as may be prescribed by the Independent National Electoral Commission; (d) any alteration in its registered constitution is also registered in the principal office of the Independent National Electoral Commission within thirty days of the making of such alteration; (e) the name of the association, its symbol or logo does not contain any ethnic or religious connotation or give the appearance that the activities of the association are confined to a part only of the geographical area of Nigeria; and (f) the headquarters of the association is situated in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja’.
The Electoral Act
Based on its constitutional powers, the National Assembly designed and promulgated the Electoral Act of 2022. The Electoral Act complements the Constitution, and prescribes and provides for the processes and procedures for giving effect to aspects of the Constitution. Section 75 of the Act provides that any political association that complies with the provisions of the Constitution and the Act shall be registered as a political party, provided the application for registration as a political party is duly submitted to the Commission not later than 12 months before a general election. It also provides that the Commission shall, on receipt of the documents in fulfilment of the conditions stipulated by the Constitution, immediately issue the
Law, Practice and Politics of Party Registration, Deregistration and Regulation
This article by Festus Okoye discusses the process of registration of political parties, how this process is sometimes circumvented by some that seek to register parties for all sorts of reasons, such as being reserve vehicles for politicians to run if they are unable to clinch the tickets in the bigger parties, or simply commercial vehicles for hire. He also examines the issue of deregistration of political parties
Applicant with a letter of acknowledgement, stating that all the necessary documents have been submitted to the Commission. The Commission shall, within 90 days from the receipt of its application, notify the Association in writing, if it has not fulfilled all the conditions for registration, stating the reasons for non-registration. A political association that meets the conditions stipulated in the Constitution and the Act, shall be registered by the Commission as a political party within 60 days from the date of receipt of the application. The Association shall be deemed registered, if after 60 days, it is not registered by the Commission, unless the Commission informs the Association to the contrary.
The Big Challenge
The critical stakeholders in the electoral process must reassess the liberal nature of party registration, regulation, and administration in Nigeria. Every condition stipulated in the Constitution for party registration, is ‘copy and paste’. The only serious condition, is having an office in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Some Associations copy the constitution of other parties, and submit it to the Commission. Some Associations open offices in remote parts of Abuja. There is no specification, on the type of office an Association must have. A room and a sitting room, fit the specifications of an office. Some Associations hire temporary locations, pay rent for one year and use the registration receipt to apply to the Commission. Some hire office staff for the duration of the verification by the Commission and thereafter, lay them off.
Return on Investment
Section 228 of the Constitution provides that the National Assembly may, by law, provide for an annual grant to INEC for disbursement to political parties on a fair and equitable basis, to assist them in the discharge of their functions. The electoral management body implemented this provision or its equivalent, but it led to serial abuse. Some individuals floated and registered three to four political parties, received subvention, and were living large. This business venture, was no doubt profitable. Rent a room and parlour in any part of the Federal Capital Territory, employ a Secretary and design two tables and chairs, and you have your party. The return on investment was high. The suspension of subvention to political parties has not stemmed the appetite for party registration, as new
“While INEC must continue to accord recognition to Associations that meet the constitutional, legal and administrative threshold, we must assess and re-evaluate the relevance of political parties that are set up as commercial entities for hire”
business opportunities opened up.
Commercial Entities for Hire/Rent
Some of the political parties, serve as a refuge for excluded or disenchanted politicians. These parties serve as special-purpose vehicles, for the election. They have dummy candidates that are injected into the political nomination process, pending the conclusion of the primaries and nomination processes of the ‘big’ political parties. Since political parties are just platforms for contesting elections, the candidate of the party goes to the highest bidder. In other words, the parties are commercial entities for hire. After elections, they revert to their default mode. Some of them give up their offices and staff, and the party continues in the suitcases of their supposed owners and founders, resisting attempts at verification.
Legal Challenge to Party Registration Associations jostling to transform into political parties, have always been wary of the constitutional and legal powers of the Commission to register political parties. The desire to either clip the wings of the Commission or determine the parameters of their powers, led to a legal challenge that took the parties to the Supreme Court. In the case of INEC v Musa (2003) 3 NWLR Part 806, the Supreme Court delineated the constitutional and legal powers of the Commission in the registration of political parties. Hon. Justice Tobi, JSC, made it clear that by Section 40 of the Constitution, “every person shall be entitled to assemble freely and associate with other persons, and in particular, he may form or belong to any political party, trade union or any other association for the protection of his interests. The proviso is to the effect that, the above provision shall not derogate from the powers conferred by the Constitution on INEC with respect to political parties to which INEC does not accord recognition.
While the section vests in the individual the right to associate, and assemble with other persons and form or belong to any political party, the proviso restricts the right, and the restriction is to the effect that the provision will not derogate from the powers of INEC with respect to political parties to which the Commission does not accord recognition. In other words, Section 40 applies only to political parties which INEC accords recognition. In this respect, Section 222 of the Constitution comes into play, as that section provides for conditions to be fulfilled or satisfied before an association can function as a political party”. The Supreme Court also stated that registration of political parties facilitates the exercise of the regulatory and monitoring powers of INEC, which are within the purview of the legislative competence of the National Assembly and that recognition of a political party is the fact of acceptance of the existence of an Association eligible to function as a political party, while registration is the recording and certification of that fact.
The Existing Parties
Between 2019 and 2022, INEC received 124 applica-
tions from associations seeking registration as political parties. After an initial assessment, 108 associations did not meet the registration threshold. Based on the provisions of Section 75 of the Act, the verification of the parties was stalled due to the 12-month cut-off period before the election. Consequently, only the Booth Party was registered on a court order. Following the 2019 general election, out of the 91 registered parties, the Commission, on 6th February, 2020, deregistered 74 political parties under Section 225A of the Constitution. ‘Eventually, the Court restrained the Commission from de-registering one of the political parties (African Peoples Party, APP) and ordered the re-listing of another one (Youth Party, YP) as a political party. However, these parties were unable to participate in the 2023 general election, due to the application of Section 75 of the Electoral Act 2022. 18 political parties participated in, and presented candidates for the election.
Foot-Dragging at De-Registration
Section 225A of the Constitution is clear: perform or cease to exist. One cannot open an office, operate for a year, and then close it while still being considered a political party. It is unacceptable to remain dormant, while others are organising primaries and sponsoring candidates. Furthermore, it is unconscionable to rent a platform, contest an election, win, and then abandon that platform only to open the party up for deregistration. Those who donate or rent their platforms, must understand that there is limited or tainted morality in such transactions. The electoral management body must act in compliance with the Supreme Court judgement in NUP v INEC (2021) 17 NWLR Part 1805, and deregister parties that fail to meet the constitutional threshold outlined in Section 225A of the Constitution.
What is to be Done
The ownership of political parties must revert to the members of the parties, rather than their owners and founders. The National Assembly should remove Section 224 of the Constitution, which mandates that the programme, aims, and objectives of a political party conform with the provisions of Chapter II of the Constitution (Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy). This requirement pigeonholes all political parties into a single ideological standpoint, making it impossible to differentiate between them. Currently, most parties are identified by their members, rather than by their principles. Many of these individuals have moved through three or four political parties. Nigerian political parties must be driven by ideology, and not merely serve as vehicles for contesting elections.
We require national parties with offices and genuine physical, material and human structures in at least twothirds of all the States of the Federation. This model will suit our electoral ecosystem, and our unique ethnic and religious configuration. While INEC must continue to accord recognition to associations that meet the constitutional, legal and administrative threshold, we must assess and re-evaluate the relevance of political parties that are set up as commercial entities for hire.
Festus Okoye, Legal Practitioner; former INEC National Commissioner
Festus Okoye
last Thursday, July 3, 2025 the law firm of Babalakin & Co held an art exhibition at its offices in Victoria Island, lagos, to commemorate it's 37th anniversary of Practice. Here are some of the people who attended the event. PHoToS: Kola allI
L-R: Mr Dotun Sulaiman; Member of the Panel of Judges, Mr Sehinde Odunayo and Mr Dapo Mudasiru
L-R: Dr Wale Babalakin, SAN; 1st Place Winner of the Art Competition, Mr Aregbede Ojo Olaropo and Mr Dotun Sulaiman
L-R: Ms Ndidi Okpaluba; Dr Bayo Adaralegbe and General Counsel, Jumia, Mr Uche Allison
L-R: Chief Demola Folarin; Dr Wale Babalakin, SAN; Mr Kayode Odukoya; Ambassador Chris Okeke; Managing Partner, Babalakin & Co, Mr Wale Akoni, SAN
L-R: Ms Dunni Segun-Oki; People's Choice Winner, Abdiquadr Ojelade and Ms Ndidi Okpaluba
L-R: Dr Bayo Adaralegbe; Ambassador Dennis Ojeomu Ifidan; Chief Demola Folarin and Chief Kola Akinbami
L-R: Member of the Panel of Judges, Mr Dotun Sulaiman; Chairman of Leaders and Company Ltd & Publisher of ThisDay, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, CON; Principal Partner, Babalakin & Co, Dr Wale Babalakin, SAN and Mr Uche Wigwe (behind)
The Four Winners
‘In
Borno, it’s Zero Tolerance for Human Rights Abuse’
The work and responsibilities of a State attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice can be quite daunting, and functioning in that office in a State torn by terrorism and insurgency, is perceptibly doubly challenging. This is the herculean task of the first Female Borno State Attorney-General and commissioner for Justice, Mrs Hauwa Abubakar. last weekend, she spoke with onikepo Braithwaite and Jude Igbanoi on a range of issues, including the State’s approach to justice administration and the innovation of digitalisation, the newly launched e-Justice initiative by her Ministry and State Police
In 2022, at age 45, you were appointed by HE Governor Zulum as the first female Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice of Borno State. Kindly, give us a brief overview of your journey to AG. Thank you Editor. Prior to my privilege of being appointed as the Attorney-General and Commissioner
for Justice of Borno State by His Excellency, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, CON, FNSE, mni, FNAIE, CFR, the Governor of Borno State, I was then appointed as 'the Special Adviser on Legal Matters' to His Excellency, during His Excellency's First term in office as Governor. Then, during the
“Upon assumption of office, I set a robust agenda centred on justice sector reform, digitalisation and protecting vulnerable populations. This agenda is in line with the 25 year State Development Plan aimed at driving stabilisation, recovery and growth across all sectors. This plan is complemented by a 10 year strategic transformation plan of His Excellency, Prof Babagana Umara Zulum. Key priorities include modernising processes, enhancing access to justice, and safeguarding human rights”
same first term and towards its end, I was appointed to act as the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, when my predecessor, Shehu Kaka (now a sitting Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria) resigned to contest and fulfil his political ambition to the Senate. Then, upon His Excellency's second term, I was confirmed as the substantive Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Borno State, the office, which I hold to date.
What are the challenges you have faced along the way? Some say that there is a gender bias against women in the legal profession, despite the fact that as many women as men are called to the Bar annually. For example, the number of female Senior Advocates is small, compared to the men. Do you agree? If so, how can women change
this negative narrative? What advice do you have for women who desire to reach the peak of their chosen careers? How can they achieve a good balance between home life and work?
Well, this is all about individual's perspective. I can understand that there are as many men in the legal profession as the females, though, in the legal profession, strictly speaking, it is not an issue because, the legal profession has its own unique doctrine which sees every person duly called to the Bar as a 'person' in the male gender rather than in the female gender, hence, you would or must have heard the statement 'no female gender in the legal profession'. So, legally speaking, such bias does not exist as far as the legal profession is concerned. Nevertheless, according to a layman's view or in the African and religious schools of thoughts, such discrimination exists. My approach
Borno State Attorney-General and commissioner for Justice, Mrs Hauwa Abubakar
‘In Borno, it’s Zero Tolerance for Human rights Abuse’
to this view is that, it is all about the individual's mentality and perspective. The understanding between couples for instance, talking about family, matters. Also, the societal acceptance of the possibility of a woman playing some vital societal roles also comes into play; because, for instance, this office that I hold today, to the Almighty Allah’s glory, is a societal role. Hence, where the society has come to terms with this belief, and the couples come to understand how to go about dealing with the situation, I believe, these unique societal roles are possible. As the world is being developed, the number of females are getting much more educated and the views of the people generally are being improved upon, then, a number of females are now being considered and appointed to certain levels of public or societal roles. It is also my view that, the way and manner that the female appointee also goes about performing these roles matters.
I can attest to the fact that it is not an easy task at all, especially for a married woman: attending to the fulfilment of the rights of the husband; the children; the home; the extended family; friends, etc. and now, the society! In my case, I am married and blessed with children. The support and understanding that I have been getting from my husband and my family, as well as friends while being in this role, has lessened the burden on me, though, I have to still try my best to continue to manage every situation by ensuring that I perform my roles to them as much as I can and with Almighty Allah, I am where I am today! I believe that what I have said so far, will serve a great lesson to any woman who aspires towards the fulfilment of her goals. In essence, it depends on: understanding of the people around you; your ability to manage every situation where you find yourself; and seeking Almighty God's support to ease the affairs; all these play a great role.
What agenda did you set for the Justice Sector in Borno as AG? Kindly, share the highlights of your agenda, and what you have been able to achieve so far, particularly regarding justice sector reform, modernising and digitisation/digitalisation, and protecting the rights of the people of Borno, particularly those who have been affected by insurgency, and some alleged by NGOs to have been abused by the military forces stationed there? Have you embarked on updating and codifying your laws and law reform?
Upon assumption of office, I set a robust agenda centred on justice sector reform, digitalisation and protecting vulnerable populations. This
agenda is in line with the 25 year State Development Plan aimed at driving stabilisation, recovery and growth across all sectors. This plan is complemented by a 10 year strategic transformation plan of His Excellency, Prof Baba Gana Umara Zulum. Key priorities include modernising processes, enhancing access to justice, and safeguarding human rights.
We have made significant strides in digital transformation through the E-Case Management system in partnership with LawPavilion, which is aimed at improved efficiency, transparency and accountability. Reconstruction and rehabilitation of courts in the State, the reestablishment of the Court of Appeal Division in Borno State, the establishment and commissioning of the Elibrary in the Ministry for ease of research and a new Logo, vision and mission statement for the purpose of recommitment.
We are actively working to update and codify our laws, to reflect contemporary realities and promote justice reform.
Borno State has been one of the hardest hit in terms of the Boko Haram terrorism and insurgency. Is the situation improving or worsening? What challenges has this posed to your Ministry as AttorneyGeneral and Commissioner for Justice? What achievements have your Ministry recorded, in terms of prosecuting terror-
“A well regulated State Police can be a viable solution to insecurity, especially in States like Borno where local knowledge and swift response are crucial. However, this must be carefully implemented to ensure accountability and prevent abuse”
ists? How are they handled when they are arrested? How does your administration handle so-called repentant terrorists? Do you re-absorb them into society? If so, what assurance do you have that they won't go back to their old ways?
Thank you, Editor. There is no doubt that prior to the ascension of office by His Excellency, the Governor of Borno State, His Excellency, Babagana Umara Zulum, we all were aware of the situations in Borno State, regarding the insurgency and its negative impact on the State. However, upon the well coordinated efforts of the current State Government and the collaboration with the Federal Government, the non-kinetic approach to the insurgency also has been helpful. No doubt, the insurgency is not over yest until it is over. Efforts are still ongoing. The State Government approach of reintegration, rehabilitation and reorientation of the repentant terrorists led to some of the developments that you have observed.
The Borno State Ministry of Justice, as a service Ministry, has been trying its best through committed officers in the Ministry in the handling of the cases. We do not have the power to prosecute the terrorist, terrorism are offences strictly under the exclusive list, it is only within the purview of the Federal Government. Some of the arrested alleged insurgents were prosecuted in courts of law, convicted and appropriately sentenced, while some were discharged and acquitted. The prosecution is not an individual thing, rather it is a way of societal justice. For those who have repented,
there are lawful systems in place by the State Government (in collaboration with the Federal Government) to rehabilitate them for a definite period of time and thereafter, they are reintegrated into the society. With the understanding of the society, this has been possible.
And, as to your question on my assurance that the repentant ones will not go back to their old ways: you know, we, as State Government, and the Federal Government in collaboration with the international communities offering humanitarian services, have done all our best as much as we can. It is understandable and undeniable that, there might be a bad egg in a basket. Hence, once we identify any recalcitrant one among the repentant and reintegrated persons, we take the appropriate steps under the law. The unwavering efforts by the Military and other security operatives, as well as the Borno Model of peace and Reconciliation approach, are instrumental in the relative peace not only in Borno but the region. There are provisions already in place under the development, to deal with such a person. There is a structured approach to dealing with repentants who are given opportunities for reintegration through the deradicalisation programmes, vocational training and community acceptance. We are also committed to rigorous monitoring and support to ensure they do not relapse into violence, for most of the returnees are victims.
There have been a litany of complaints, tales of woe and massive human rights violations in Internally Displaced Persons Camps in Borno State. While IDPs may be a shared responsibility between the Federal and State Government, what has
Borno State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mrs Hauwa Abubakar
‘In Borno, it’s Zero Tolerance for Human rights Abuse’
been your approach in handling these complaints and prosecuting offenders therefrom?
We have zero tolerance for human rights violations as a Government and as a Ministry of Justice, that I assure you! Though, some of these reports without duly being brought to our knowledge, remain rumours and unsubstantiated. Nevertheless, there are some reports to this effect of the complaints. When these complaints are brought to our attention, we immediately swing into action, carryout necessary investigation and take the appropriate steps within the law to address the situation. We already have our security and law enforcement agencies in place, to assist in eradicating such incidents We work closely with the Federal agencies, NGOs and community leaders to investigate complaints and take necessary actions. Our aim is to uphold the dignity of displaced persons, and hold perpetrators accountable
What are your views on State Police? Do you believe it is a viable solution to arresting the insecurity in your State?
The Government of Borno State believes that State Police has a viable role to play, in the security of the State. Where this State Police is institutionalised, the Government of Borno State can then deal with the menaces of insecurity in the State, as a State issue. The State Government already, in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force (C-JTF) and other vigilante groups which have been registered and recognised by the State Government which comprises of volunteering members of the local communities in Borno State, already have a modus operandi (that is mode of operation) with which we have been working together to the levels that we have got to now. Hence, the State Police is a thing we hope will be established in due course.
A well regulated State Police can be a viable solution to insecurity, especially in States like Borno where local knowledge and swift response are crucial. However, this must be carefully implemented to ensure accountability and prevent abuse.
Local Government autonomy has been a highly contentious matter in most States. What has been the experience in Borno? Is your State fully compliant with the Supreme Court judgement on LGA autonomy?
Borno State Government under the able leadership of His Excellency, Babagana Umara Zulum, is
committed to adherence to the Supreme Court judgement on LGA autonomy. We recognise the importance of empowering local governments to deliver services efficiently, and are actively working to ensure full compliance. You know, local government autonomy is a system. Hence, there are administrative steps and processes to follow, which the Borno State Government has already commenced necessary actions to bring the system into its proper reality in no time. Your State recently launched the E-Justice project in partnership with LawPavilion. Many saw it as very innovative and forward looking. What has been the level of acceptance by stakeholders, Lawyers and Judges?
Yes. The E-Justice innovation, is part of the agenda of the current Government. The E-Justice system makes justice easily accessible to those who might have one difficulty or the other within the areas of Borno State, especially, considering the decade long period of attacks as a result of the insurgency in the State, which the State government is religiously addressing. So, with the approval of the Borno State Government, this has come
“Well, I must commend the innovative efforts of the Borno State Judiciary (as one of the arms of the Government in the State) under the leadership of His Lordship, the Chief Judge of the State, Honourable Justice Kashim Zannah…. we have begun to take necessary steps towards this reality of the virtual hearings. Our Lawyers have been trained in this regard… I recommend the innovative idea of the virtual hearings, to other States….there are lot of risks associated with moving physically from one location to another by Lawyers and litigants, including the correctional services that moves Defendants…..”
to pass and it is part of the legacies that this government shall leave behind at the time of the expiration of our tenure, and we hope and trust in its continuity. Also, as you could verify, when this innovation was initiated, the idea was very much applauded by all and sundry: the residents; Lawyers; Judges; and even the international communities. You would be aware that Borno State Government has collaborations with the international community and a number of the International Non-governmental agencies (I-NGOs). They have been collaborating with the Borno State Government, within the allowed procedures. So, we as Ministry of Justice and the Borno State as a government, aim to bring more innovations that will aid the justice system in the State, with the support of Almighty God! More so, the global world is tilting towards 'Artificial Intelligence (AI)', globalised technologies, etc. Hence, the Borno State Government cannot be left behind. Hence, this forward step.
Borno State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Kashim Zannah pioneered virtual court hearings in Nigeria. What is your assessment of the level of computer literacy of Lawyers in Borno State, and how have virtual court proceedings fared so far in the State? What would be your recommendation to other States?
Well, I must commend the innovative efforts of the Borno State Judiciary (as one of the arms of the Government in the State) under the leadership of His Lordship, the Chief Judge of the State, Honourable Justice Kashim Zannah for pioneering
this innovation! I would say in brief that, every step at a time. You know that, we on this side are part of the Executive Arm of Government of Borno State. Yet, we support and applaud ideas that would assist the Justice system. Virtual hearings are innovative and well appreciated. Hence, on our own part, we have begun to take necessary steps towards this reality of the virtual hearings. Our Lawyers have been trained in this regard, and we shall still continue to retrain them on this new development.
I recommend the innovative idea of the virtual hearings, to other States. There are advantages in these virtual hearings: there are lot of risks associated with moving physically from one location to another by Lawyers and litigants, including the correctional services that moves Defendants or accused persons from the custodies to courts and from the courts back to the custodies. In essence, accepting and accommodating the reality of the virtual hearings will mean that the hearings can be held at the comfort zones, thereby reducing, if not eradicating, the possible risks attached to such physical movements. What are you doing to improve the poor conditions of service of Magistrates in Borno State, since their remuneration and welfare is the responsibility of the State Government?
The Borno State Government is trying its best in regard to the welfare of the Magistrates and other working conditions associated with their services, including other civil servants under the employment of the Borno State Government. Their welfare is paramount to the State Government. I understand that there is room for improvement, and we are already working on that.
Thank you Honourable AttorneyGeneral.
Borno State Attorney-General and commissioner for Justice, Mrs Hauwa Abubakar
SPIN Inducts 96 New Members, Honors Ogunsanya at 5th Induction Ceremony
Kayode Tokede
The Sustainability Professionals Institute of Nigeria (SPIN) has inducted 96 new members at its 2025 cohort induction ceremony in Lagos. The event marked a significant milestone in the institute’s six-year history and strengthening its position as Nigeria’s premier professional body for sustainability practitioners.
In his keynote presentation titled, “The Future of Sustainability in a Volatile Global System: Implications for Africa,” Dr. Louis Meuleman, distinguished expert in public administration and sustainability, addressed growing turbulence in global governance systems.
He emphasised the need for decentralized approaches that
support local implementation and collaborative frameworks, urging inductees to champion authentic, locally-driven sustainability solutions for Africa.
Speaking, Vice President of SPIN, Ini Abimbola, said, “Today we induct 96 professionals into our institute, our largest cohort yet. This brings our total membership to 296, reflecting the growing influence of sustainability leadership in Nigeria.” She outlined SPIN’s strategic vision, stating, “Our next milestone is attaining chartered status. This will strengthen our authority to standardize sustainability practices nationwide, institutionalize our frameworks across sectors, and amplify Nigeria’s leadership globally.”
The ceremony featured conferment of honorary fellow-
ship on Dr. Segun Ogunsanya, Chairman of Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority, and Airtel Africa Foundation, in recognition of his exceptional contributions to sustainable development across Nigeria and Africa. His opening remarks emphasized the critical intersection of sustainable investment principles and economic development strategies.
Since its inception in August 2019, SPIN has recorded significant milestones including a partnership with the Institute of Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability (ICRS) U.K., comprehensive training programmes, positioning itself for chartered status recognition and its recent establishment of a Scientific Committee for thought leadership.
In a bold step towards accelerating Africa’s digital transformation, Heirs Technologies has marked the successful graduation of the latest cohorts from its i-Academy Supplementary Technical Engineering Program (STEP)a rigorous three-month, hands-on training initiative equipping young professionals with job-ready skills in Cloud Computing and Cybersecurity.
Held at the company’s training center in Lagos, the ceremony underscored Heirs Technologies commitment to nurturing homegrown technology talent and closing the digital skills gap across the continent.
Speaking at the event, the Managing Director of Heirs
FCMB Extends Banking
First City Monument Bank (FCMB) has said it has officially commissioned a new branch in Sangotedo, Lagos state. Local leaders expressed strong support and high hopes for the new branch’s impact on the community’s economic growth.
Oba Abiodun Ogunbo, the Ogudu Oshadi I of Ogombo Kingdom, represented by Chief Lukman Lawal, the Aro of Ogombo Kingdom, warmly welcomed FCMB.
He stressed the critical need for banking services for residents and businesses, commending the Bank’s track record of supporting individuals and enterprises.He was
Technologies, Obong Idiong, commended the graduates for their dedication and resilience, describing them as Africa’s future technology leaders.
“We are immensely proud of our graduates,” he said. “They represent the future of Africa’s technology industry, passionate, skilled, and driven to create impact. At Heirs Technologies, we are not just building a business; we are developing people who will shape the future of our continent. We have now graduated over 100 trainees and are excited about the impact they will make.”
The VP, i-Academy, Ivy Ikpeme-Mbakwem, also
addressed the graduates, highlighting the immense opportunities in the cybersecurity and cloud space. She encouraged them to remain disciplined and diligent as they advance in their careers.
As part of their final assessments, trainees underwent extensive hands-on training led by in-house experts.
The Cloud Cohort covered key areas such as deploying applications in cloud environments, implementing identity and access management protocols, managing infrastructure and user access, designing enterprise landing zones and architecture models, and simulating threat detection and response.
Operations , Open New Branch at Sangotedo
optimistic that the new branch would create new opportunities and boost economic activity.
The Olu of Sangotedo Kingdom, Oba Mohammed Olufunmi, represented by Otunba Tunde Johnson, also expressed appreciation for the new branch.
He encouraged FCMB to deepen its presence in the community, citing the rapid development in the area as a compelling reason for the Bank to expand its presence further.
The Chairman of Eti-Osa East Local Council Development Area, Honourable John Ogundare, stressed the importance of FCMB’s new branch, stating, “today marks a significant milestone for Sangotedo and the entire
Eti-Osa.”
Managing Director/CEO of First City Monument Bank, Mrs. Yemisi Edun, represented by Mr. Emmanuel Comla, the Bank’s National Head of Sales, reaffirmed FCMB’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable banking.
She stated that the bank is there to grow with the community, promising flexible financing for businesses and committing to bringing more people into the formal economy. people, capital and markets.
Group Head of Operations and International Trade Services at FCMB, Mr Ademola Idowu highlighted the Bank’s commitment to delivering excellent and sustainable services.
Indimi, Kolawole Now Directors on Jaiz Bank Board
Jaiz Bank Plc. Nigeria’s pioneer Non-Interest Bank has announced the appointments of Ahmed Mohammed Indimi as a Non-Executive Director, and Nike Kolawole as an Independent Non-Executive Director on its Board.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the bank said the appointments were made to enhancing its leadership with professionals; experienced individuals with track record of ethical and strategic engagement. Ahmed Indimi, a respected entrepreneur and business executive in Nigeria’s energy sector, currently serves as the Director and Head of Crude Marketing at Oriental Energy Resources, where he leads commercial operations; oversees crude sales strategy; negotiates pricing frameworks; and fosters client relationships. His leadership in the sector reflects a strong blend of technical understanding, commercial insight, and stakeholder engagement. Meanwhile, the Bank has also announced the appointment of Nike Kolawole, as Independent Non-Executive Director on its Board. Kolawole’s appointment, duly approved by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) reflects the Bank’s continued commitment to strengthening its governance, enhancing expertise in ethical finance, and accelerating its growth trajectory.
international institutions such as Merrill Lynch, Citibank, Goldman Sachs, and Credit Suisse, where she served as Vice President, overseeing asset management, credit risk, and Eurobond issuances across global markets.
Her experience includes successful tenures at leading
In 2007, she joined the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), where she rose through key finance roles to become Group General Manager, LNG Investment Management Services. Over her tenure, she led critical project financing efforts and helped reposition Nigeria in the global LNG market, including landmark transactions such as the award-winning 2012 RDP Funding deal.
Saharan Blend
Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic
Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).
L - R: Technical Adviser to the Managing Director/CEO,Unity Bank Plc, Mrs. Temitope Arase; Managing Director/CEO, Unity Bank Plc,Mr. Ebenezer Kolawole; Chairman of the Banking Commission, International Chamber of Commerce,Mr. Florian Witt and Divisional Head, Treasury and Financial Institutions, Unity Bank Plc, Mr. Sunny Bakwunye, during Mr. Witt’s courtesy visit to Unity Bank headquarters in Lagos... recently
Kayode Tokede
Investors Demand for GTCO, Others Lift Stock Market by N192.85bn
Kayode Tokede
With surge investors demand for Guaranty Trust Holdings Company Plc (GTCO), and 54 others, the Nigerian stock market appreciated by N193 billion to open the new week on a positive note.
GTCO gained 1.56 per cent or N1..30 per share to close at N84.50 per share, amid its move to list on the secondary market of the London Stock Exchange (LSE).
Specifically, the market capitalisation, which opened at N76.339 trillion, added N192.85 billion or 0.25 per cent to close at N76.532 trillion it closed for trading last week. Consequently, the Nigerian Exchange Limited All-Share Index (NGX ASI) also gained 0.25 per cent or 305.67 basis points, to settle at 121,295.33 basis points against 120,989.66 basis points it opened for trading. This bringsNGX ASI with the
Month-to-Date and Year-to-Date returns +1.1per cent and +17.9per cent, respectively. On sectors, the NGX Banking Index (+0.9%), NGX Consumer Goods Index (+0.8%), and NGX Insurance Index (+0.4%) advanced while the NGX Oil & Gas Index and NGX Industrial Goods index were unchanged. Meanwhile, the stock market breadth closed positive with 55 gainers and 23 losers.
Cadbury Nigeria led the
advancers chart, increasing by 10 per cent, closing at N53.35 and Ellah Lakes also soared by 10 per cent, settling at N8.91 per share.
Tripple Gee rose by 10 per cent, ending the session at N2.97 while UPDCREIT also climbed by 10 per cent, finishing at N7.15 per share. Also, Red Star Express grew by 9.92 per cent, closing at N9.20 per share. On the flip side, Sunu Assurances shed by 10 per cent, settling at N4.50 while RT Briscoe declined by 9.59 per
cent, finishing at N3.30 per share.
Prestige dropped by 9.09 per cent, closing at N1.20 and UPDC fell by 8.23 per cent, ending the session at N4.35 per share.
Berger Paints lost by 7.58 per cent, closing at N30.50 per share.
824.10 million shares worth N14.44 billion were traded across 24,042 transactions, compared to 923.7 million shares worth N11 billion that was exchanged across 25,680 transactions earlier recorded.
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TWO YEARS OF THE TINUBU PRESIDENCY
WENESO OROGUN assesses the economic consequences of the administration
THE AGE OF THE JUDICIAL IMPOSTOR
IWe must never trade long-term gain for short-term noise, contends ABIODUN OLUWADARE
CHIDI ANSELM ODINKALU raises the familiar issue of falsification of age Tuesday July 8, 2025
CULTISM
LET’S BUILD, NOT BURN
n every nation’s life, there comes a time when tough decisions must be made, when the old ways no longer work, and leaders must summon the courage to break the chains of unsustainable dependency. Nigeria is at such a moment. The fuel subsidy has been removed. The exchange rate has been unified. Corruption-prone distortions are being dismantled. And yet, as the nation embarks on this difficult but necessary journey, a familiar crop of politicians, rejected at the ballot, unsettled by irrelevance, have resurfaced, not to help but to hijack public frustration and burn down the house they once failed to govern.
These men and women, many of them veterans of Nigeria’s political decay, now call themselves the “coalition for salvation.” But scratch the surface and the truth emerges: this is not a coalition of patriots, it is a coalition of bitterness. They are not united by love for country or a vision for the future. They are united only by their hatred for Bola Ahmed Tinubu and their desperation for political resurrection.
Ask this coalition one question: What is your plan? What clear alternative do you offer the Nigerian people? Is it a return to trillions in fuel subsidies that enriched smugglers, bled the treasury, and made the poor poorer? Is it a resurrection of multiple exchange windows that allowed elite arbitrage while choking small businesses? Is it a return to leadership by inertia, where hard decisions are postponed for political comfort?
And so, they chose a man, Bola Tinubu, who, despite his imperfections, presented the courage to dismantle what no other president dared to touch.
But these sore losers have refused to accept defeat. They first tried to delegitimise the elections. Then they attacked the judiciary. Now, they are inciting the public through emotional blackmail, amplifying every pain of reform without offering a single real solution.
Some of their surrogates have even issued veiled threats of disobedience, regional division, and insurrection. This is not opposition, it is sabotage. This is not patriotism; it is political terrorism clothed in the language of democracy.
Let us be clear: subsidy removal hurts.
made peace with mediocrity when they had the keys to power. Now that they are out in the cold, they masquerade as saints.
Their real problem is not with hardship. Their real grievance is that the power door is closed, for now. They are fanning the embers of hatred, hoping for a public uprising not because they care about Nigerians, but because they want to sneak back through the smoke of chaos.
Their language is increasingly divisive, pitching North against South, poor against rich, ethnic group against ethnic group. They have no national vision. They only have national anger. And that is not leadership. That is sabotage.
They speak of “hardship” as though hardship was invented in May 2023. Yet many of them were in power when: Over $22 billion in fuel subsidies went to politically connected cartels.
• Nigeria lost decades of oil windfalls with no savings, no working refineries, and no legacy infrastructure. Insecurity ravaged the North-East, and farmers fled their lands.
Where were these patriots when Boko Haram abducted hundreds of schoolgirls under their watch? When were public universities shut for months? When did exchange rates slip from ₦199 to ₦500 under a confused FX policy? They said nothing. They did nothing. And now they want to lecture Nigerians on hardship?
They lost the election, and now want to burn the country
Let’s not mince words. This coalition was defeated at the polls in 2023. Not because Nigerians did not hear them, but because Nigerians remembered them. Nigerians saw through their cosmetic populism and remembered their arrogance in power.
Floating the naira is painful. Inflation is real. But these are the birth pangs of a new Nigeria, not the symptoms of presidential wickedness. The previous model, fueling consumption with borrowed money, appeasing everyone with fake prices, and killing productivity, was never sustainable. Even those now shouting from rooftops knew it.
What President Tinubu has done is reset the system. In doing so, he has saved the country from ₦11 trillion in subsidy spending in 2024 alone; unified the exchange rate to encourage investment and end forex racketeering.
He is investing in infrastructure, transportation, and domestic refining capacity.
Are these enough? Not yet. But it is honest, bold, and fiscally sane. And for once, we have a leader willing to lose political capital to save the economy, unlike those who hoarded power and postponed the inevitable.
This coalition is dangerous not just for what it says, but for what it represents: the return of Nigeria’s most dangerous political virus, entitled elitism masked as mass advocacy. These are men who
A Message to Nigerians: Stay the Course
To Nigerians hurting from high costs and struggling incomes: your pain is real. But your patience is not in vain. Every country that rose from economic decay did so by passing through fire, not avoiding it. Ghana, Indonesia, and Egypt all undertook painful reforms. They faced protests and resistance. But today, they are better for it.
Nigeria cannot be different. We must stay the course. This is not the time for confusion. It is time for consolidation.
And to President Tinubu: speak more. Act faster. Spend wisely. Let the people see the fruits of your reforms, not just hear the promises. Build rail, fix roads, lift incomes, and fight corruption in your own house. Because Nigerians will not wait forever.
The coming years will test our unity, our discipline, and our resilience. But we must never allow disgruntled coalitions to hijack national reform. We must never trade long-term gain for short-term noise.
If we fall for emotional blackmail, we return to the slums of waste, deceit, and elite impunity. But if we stand together, leaders and citizens alike, Nigeria will rise from the ashes of subsidy addiction and claim its rightful place among prosperous nations.
Let the coalition of progress march forward. Let the coalition of bitterness dissolve into history.
This is our time. Let’s build, not burn.
•Prof Oluwadare, a Political Scientist, writes from the Department of Political Science, Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna
CHIDI ANSELM ODINKALU raises the familiar issue of falsification of age
THE AGE OF THE JUDICIAL IMPOSTOR
“The mind grows old, no less than the body.” Aristotle, The Politics, Book II, Ch. 9, 146 (Penguin Classics, 1981)
A little over two decades ago, away from its perception as a shrine for the resolution of the most rarefied disputes in the country, the Supreme Court of Nigeria played host to a Nigerian drama. With less than two years to go before retirement, a senior justice of that court approached then Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Mohammed Lawal Uwais, with a discovery. A wise, old uncle of his from the village in one of the states of southern Nigeria had just informed him, the Justice disclosed, that there had been an error in the computation of his age as he had, indeed, been born two years later than the age disclosed in his documentation. He sought the consent of CJN Uwais for the rectification of that little error.
The CJN doubted that it was within his power to consent to the rectification sought. But before making up his mind, he had two requests to make
of the Justice who approached him. First, he asked that the request be reduced formally into writing and that thereafter it should be circulated to all the other Justices of the court for their comments. This process effectively killed the request. By the time the written application arrived at the desk of the Chief Justice with the comments of his peers, it was clear that his application for age rectification was dead on arrival.
England, from where Nigeria inherited much of the traditions of its judiciary did not always have a compulsory retirement age for judges. The consequences were sometimes grim. Edward Foss tells the story in his Biographia Juridica of Salathiel Lovell, appointed a Baron of the Court of Exchequer “on the verge of ninety years of age” in 1708; whose judicial tenure (which lasted for the next five years) “was distinguished by his want of memory.”
England only introduced the compulsory age of retirement for judges in 1959. Judges appointed before then could serve for life. The last judge in that category was the famous Alfred Thompson Denning. Lord Denning, who had jocularly claimed to have "every Christian virtue, except resignation" was forced to do just that at the age of 83 in 1982 because of “illiberal comments in his declining years.”
By contrast, independent Nigeria always had a retirement age for judges. In a country with notoriously perfunctory attitude to documentation and evidence, however, attitudes to proof of date of birth and age in Nigeria have always been shifty and judges have proved to be avid practitioners in the game of genealogical chicanery. The result sometimes can be both chastening and dramatic. In a State in southern Nigeria not too long ago, the local youths had to be mobilised on night before a high society funeral to mop up all the posters of the deceased on the road to and around his village, so they could be promptly pulped. The elder brother of the dead man, a serving judge of a state high court, had arrived home for the funeral to the sight of posters announcing the age of his late younger brother as 71 at a time when the judicial retirement age was 65. He was nothing if not genuine in his desire to spare his invited judicial peers due to arrive for the funeral the following morning the agony of the implausibility as to how he could still be a serving judge when his deceased younger brother was already over six years above the judicial age of retirement.
Imo and Yobe States have had a particularly hard time of judges messing about with their age. In Yobe State, two Grand Khadis in succession have suffered the indignity of being caught in age racketeering. In 2020, the National Judicial Council, (NJC), found that over two instalments of falsification, Grand Khadi Shu’aibu Talba reduced his age by four years from 1955 to 1959.
Last November, the same NJC found that the man who succeeded Talba as Grand Khadi of Yobe State, Babagana Mahdi, was at least eight years over the eligible age at the time of his appointment into the position, having falsified his own age by at least 12 years. In effect, the NJC’s decision to approve his appointment into the office was unlawful.
On 26 June 2025, the NJC recommended the compulsory retirement of five judges of the High Court of Imo State and four judges of the Customary Court of Appeal of the same state whom it “found to have altered their dates of birth in their official records in order to confer on themselves the undue advantage of staying longer in service.”
This was the latest instalment in a growing scandal of judicial age racketeering in the state. Last November, the NJC similarly required the compulsory retirement of the State Chief Judge, Theresa Chikeka, whom it found to have falsified her age by two years. In her case as with the Grand Khadis of Yobe State, the Council also ordered the refund to the public purse of the excess of emoluments paid to them for the years during which they should not have continued to serve as judges.
The judicial body count suggests that this practice of age falsification among judges could be rather more widespread. In July 2013, the NJC ordered the compulsory retirement of Shadrack Nwanosike, then acting Chief Judge of Abia State, for age falsification.
Three years later, in 2016, it was the turn of Idris Evuti and Tanko Yusuf Usman, both judges of the High Court of Niger State, whom it found to have changed their ages by two and a half years and one year respectively.
In 2018, the NJC retired Joshua Ikede, a judge of the High Court of Delta State, whom it similarly found guilty of age falsification.
In 2020, it was the turn of Francis Abosi, Acting President of the Customary Court of Appeal of Imo State who altered his age by eight years; and Abdulkareem Babatunde Abdulrasaq, judge of the High Court of Ogun State who falsified his age by two.
Tanko Muhammad, the CJN who presided over the decision to sack Abdulrasaq, Abosi, and Talba from the bench was himself the focus of serious but unresolved allegations of age falsification. In May 2019, the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory dismissed a case by Tochi Michael whose claim was that CJN Muhammad had falsely altered his date of birth from 31 December 1950 to 31 December 1953.
The court held that Tochi lacked the standing to bring the case having failed to show how he “has been injured by the defendant.” In other words, the court decided that it did not have jurisdiction over the case. As such, it disavowed the power to delve into Tochi’s claims and, therefore, lacked the power to dismiss it. Yet, Danlami Senchi, the judge who sat over the matter, didn’t just dismiss the case, he imposed punitive costs on Tochi and referred his lawyer for disciplinary investigation ultimately by the same CJN whose age was said to have been falsified.
In June 2022, Tanko Muhammad was forced by “deteriorating health condition” to resign as CJN. He has hardly been seen in public since then.
A judge who sits beyond the lawful judicial age is a judicial impostor. The costs on society and litigants could be colossal. It is a crime of fraud and a theft of judicial salary. Even worse, the person afflicts the judicial process with corrosive reputational hazards.
The High Court judgment in the case of CJN Muhammad felt like a cover up. It turns out that Tochi’s claim was, in fact, very well founded.
Tonnie Iredia points out that “before Tanko Muhammad became a judicial officer, all his records including WAEC showed that he was born in 1950 and not 1953.” The NJC can no longer afford to be half-hearted on the issue of judicial age racketeering. It needs a more systematic response.
•A lawyer and a teacher, Odinkalu can be reached at chidi.odinkalu@tufts.edu
WENESO OROGUN assesses the economic consequences of the administration
TWO YEARS OF THE TINUBU PRESIDENCY
Two years into the Tinubu Presidency it is increasingly unclear whether the politician steering our ship of state is a democrat or a despot. Is president Tinubu a progressive politician or a defender of elite privileges? Is the president committed to an anticorruption war or he’s happy to encourage corruption in high places? The suffocating ambivalence that pervades the character of the All Progressive Congress (APC) government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is most prevalent in the degree of economic illiteracy exhibited by the administration. Indeed, the second anniversary of the Tinubu presidency has given spokesperson and party faithfuls ample opportunity to crow about achievements of the APC government since May 2023. Admirers list the achievement of the government to include:
One, inflation declined from 34.8 percent to 24.48 percent by February 2025.
Two, GDP rose by 3.8 percent, marking its highest level in five years.
Three, debt servicing reduced from 97 percent to 68 percent.
Four, Payment of $5billion in outstanding foreign exchange obligations.
Five, Raising revenue generation to over N9.1 trillion. Six, Growing the trade surplus from 209.6 percent to N18.86 trillion in 2024.
Seven, Huge increase in federal allocations to all tiers of government. Eight, the adoption of a unified foreign exchange system aimed at strengthening economic stability.
Nine, disbursement of N45.6 billion in students loan. And ten, increasing the minimum wage from N30,000 to N70,000.
The framing of the showcased successes of the Tinubu-led government reveals a disturbing trend over the last decade of the APC governments. The trend has to do with the retreat of professional economics from public life that became evident during the President Muhammadu Buhari Era. Non economists began to play roles traditionally reserved for economics. Policy modeling and scenario building took the back seat. The Nigerian Economics Society (NES) could not find it voice. Most individuals who offered to help were shunned with ignominy. Professor, Doyin Salami of the pan-African University Aja Lagos who awkwardly emerged as chief Economic Adviser to PMB was not allowed any modicum of visibility. Perhaps professor Salami will one day write a book and what it was like to advise PMB on economic management. President Tinubu took this unfortunate style to dizzy heights with the appointment of Mr Yemi Cardoso, a student of management science, as Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor. The rest of this contribution will highlight some of the economic consequences of the Tinubu presidency. One notable economic consequence is the financialization of performance metrics. This involves giving pride of place to financial aggregate to the neglect of socioeconomic progress such as:
The inflation rebasing conducted by the National Bureau of Statistics(NBS) is the most potent evidence that the national statistical agency has lost it independence. This is clearly demonstrated by the decision of the MBS to put house rent and energy cost in a single basket to which it attached only 16 percent weight. The alleged reduction in inflation rate remains unimpressive because the MBS is trying hard to make the Tinubu administration to look good. Anyone who is unconvinced about this point should reflect on the changes MBS methodology for calculating the rate of unemployment. The Tinubu government is happy today to state that unemployment rates in Nigeria is in single digit. The methodology that MBS discarded have pulled the employment rate at over 30 percent. These two unacceptable decisions by MBS have artificially reduced the misery index in Nigeria.
The CBN governor believes that inflation in Nigeria is due to too much money chasing too few goods. This is wrong. Nigerian inflation is powered mainly by supply side rigidities which prevent the real sector from responding positively to local demand. In this regard, the success of monetary policy will depend largely on innovative fiscal policy and security operations that encourage farmers to go to their farms with fat molestation by armed herders and terrorists. Recent estimate indicates that 2,347 farmers were
The number of jobs created over a given timeline (Monthly, Quarterly, or Yearly). Another similar measure of progress is the number of people pulled out of poverty due to implementation of specific government policies. Also relevant is the reduction in the level of inequality in the distribution of income.
The CBN governor seeks external validation for his policies. Cardoso grins with satisfaction when the international Monetary Funds (IMF) and the World Bank tell him to stay the course with his tight monetary policy stance. He’s happy to vote for a Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) of 27.5 percent at a time when the interest rate payable by the real sector for bank lending is as high as 25% percent. Bank lending to the real sector is as high of 35%.
Regrettably, Cardoso believes in the efficacy of his monetary policies when household expenditure in Nigeria is not driven by bank credit. If President Tinubu has shopped for the right person for the job of CBN governor, the number one priority would have been how to grant access to private sector operatives to chip funds, to revitalize the economy. Not being a member of the Adam Smith Fraternity, Cardoso exhibits a high degree of willingness to sacrifice employment for inflation control. The reason is simple. He is not familiar with the Phillips Curve of Economics 301. Even after a controversial inflation rebasing exercise the alleged reduction in the inflation rate remains unimpressive.
killed by herders between 2020 and 2024. How can food prices reduce substantially in a situation like this? In addition the country lacks storage facilities that will help to reduce post harvest losses. The Tinubu administration ignores the timeless advice of the late British Development Economist, Sir Daudly Seers that to access the outcome of economic refunds we should ask through simple questions: What is happening to poverty and what is happening to employment? The World Bank whose advice means so much to the CBN governor as indicated that many more Nigerians may fall below the poverty line by December 2025 under the watch of President Tinubu.
As for employment figures, the government prefers to talk about plants and programs to generate employment without indicating how many people have joined the payroll of the organized private sector. Have members of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) and the National Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NASIMA) employed more hands in the last two years?. What is the Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) saying about the fortunes of the organized private sector over the last two years? How many Manufacturers have benefited from the easier access to financing promised by the Tinubu government? A third economic consequence of the Tinubu presidency is the seeming infatuation with GDP growth. It is well known that the Nigerian economy grows at over 7 percent per annum in some years during the tenure of President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan (GEJ). However, due to the highly skewed distribution of income in Nigeria the high GDP growth did not translate into shared prosperity.
•Orogun is our Former Editor-at-Large
THISDAY TUESDAY JULY 8, 2025
Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA
Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com
RESURGENCE OF VIOLENT CULTISM
Security agencies could do more to contain the menace
Worried by the resurgence of cult-related killings in Asaba, Delta State capital, many natives of the town, dressed in red attires, last week embarked on a week-long spiritual cleansing exercise involving traditional rites, curses and oath-taking. That exercise was a measure of the worsening cult-related clashes that have led to the gruesome killing of six persons in the past two weeks. But Asaba is not alone in this new wave of madness. The rate at which young men butcher one another and innocent people in the name of cultism is increasingly troubling.
Across the country today, so prevalent is the menace that in many states, cultists of various stripes act with impunity, killing, raping, and maiming victims while causing widespread destruction. Between 2020 and March 2025, for instance, about 1,686 people were killed in 909 incidents of gang violence across the country. According to a report by the SBM Intelligence last week, the South-South and South-West regions emerged the worst culprits. Rivers State led the fatality list with 215 deaths, followed by Lagos, 197; and Edo, 192 deaths. Overall, the South-South recorded some 750 deaths involving several groups. In the Southwest, over 491 fatalities were recorded mainly in Lagos and Ogun, due to recurrent clashes between the Aiye and Eiye confraternities. The Southeast region, notably Anambra State, also witnessed significant violence, with over 215 deaths, while the North-Central chalked over 204 deaths, particularly in Benue with cult groups such as Scavengers and Chain operating amid the ongoing communal clashes. In contrast, however, the Northeast and Northwest experienced minimal gang-related activity, recording less than 30 fatalities, attributed largely to the dominance of larger-scale terror groups like Boko Haram and bandits.
response to the widespread poverty and unemployment amid the current dire economic environment. But it is also symptomatic of a breakdown of law and order. The so-called cultists operate freely on our streets and higher institutions of learning where they have splintered from the original confraternity into Black Axe, Eiye, Aye, the Vikings, Buccaneers, Mafia, and more. Usually armed with cudgels, machetes, axes, and other dangerous tools, they operate in places of worship as well as bars and nightclubs. Indeed, most of these public spaces have become hideouts for these criminal elements who disrupt the social order and unleash terror on members of the public after becoming high on drugs and alcohol.
The concern is that these cult wars and gang violence have exacerbated the climate of lawlessness and fear in the polity
T H I S D AY
EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU
DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE
MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO
DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU
CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA
GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, EMMANUEL EFENI
DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE
As we have reiterated in previous interventions, cultism is not new in Nigeria. Either for personal/family protection or for the promotion and safeguard of certain interests, many people in the past have identified with one form of cultism or another. But today, cultism has become almost like a status symbol, especially on our campuses while members kill sometimes for reasons as flimsy as being snubbed by a student of the opposite sex. The concern is that these cult wars and gang violence have exacerbated the climate of lawlessness and fear in the polity.
These frequent clashes have their roots in a fierce struggle for supremacy and contest for control of sphere of influence. Powerful elements in the society are known to be fuelling this malady, using the cult boys as political thugs to settle scores against their opponents. These influential public figures are the unseen faces that provide the funds used to acquire arms and support the egregious lifestyle of this band of social misfits. It is therefore no surprise that cult activities are often heightened days before general elections with many young Nigerians increasingly having their lives brutally terminated.
To end this regime of violence and impunity on our streets, we call for the arrest and diligent prosecution of these miscreants and their backers.
The surge in cult violence and related crimes is mainly a
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NIGERIA AND THE COALITION OF POLITICIANS
What does it take to forge a new political coalition in Nigeria’s thoroughly abused and abased political ecosystem? A few grumbles, a handful of disgruntled politicians or poli-militias as the case may be and the hope that people can beat their vituperations into votes.
In 2014, as the People’s Democratic Party(PDP) entered the fifteenth year of its catastrophic chokehold over Nigeria, the All Progressives Congress was formed by a collection of politicians from other political parties, many of them former PDP members. In historic elections the next year, the PDP’s sixteeen-year-old stranglehold on power was finally shattered. It was a seismic upset in Nigeria’s political history. For the first time in national elections, the ruling political party crumbled.
It Is now official. The African Democratic Congress (ADC) can count itself one of Nigeria’s many political parties which is set to give the ruling APC a run for its money in the 2027 elections. What this means is clearly that there is a new entrant into the race that is shaping up to become one of Nigeria’s most exciting in years.
For years the ADC lay fallow, one of those parties making up the number on ballot papers, its fate eerily similar to that of the Labour Party in 2022 until Peter Obi decided to join it. But
with the deluge of decampees, the party is set to pose the greatest challenge to the APC’s retention of the crown it scored, or snatched, in the 2023 general elections.
Despite the promise of disruptive instability, Nigeria would do with some change. While it is unwise to have a change of government every few years, the current administration has been an experiment in explosive disaster.
But the failings of the current administration cannot gloss over the catastrophic baggage many of those now corralled into the ADC by political expedience and convenience carry. In fact, one can easily say that the coalition is a glut of grumpy politicians who having failed to realize their increasingly unreasonable political aspirations elsewhere are now at their wits’ end and feel that the only way to get some change out of Nigeria’s old political guard is to proliferate political parties.
The sight of Abubakar Malami, a former Attorney General of the Federation, and especially Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State in the coalition sickens Nigerians to no end. Many Nigerians are equally unsettled by the sight of the ageless and tireless Atiku Abubakar. The only good thing about the coalition at this point appears to be the presence of the wildly popular and acceptable Peter Obi. But there are doubts that his presence
can offset some image issues others come with.
Yet, despite the character flaws of many in the coalition, it appears that Nigeria has become so bad under the current administration that Nigerians are desperate to consider a lesser evil. Indeed, that some Nigerians yearn for the return of the dark days of the Muhammadu Buhari administration speaks to how bad the situation has become.
What with a president whose integrity deficit distorts everything he does and a Federal Capital Territory minister whose gross grandiloquence futilely may just be a mask for paranoia. In a country where politics is unfortunately the biggest distraction, the fireworks for 2027 have only just gone off. While Nigerians must avoid voting only in protest, the coalition must prove its credentials. Nigerians must be especially wary of whitewashed politicians who have bared their true colours in the past. Since Nigerian politicians have become quite adept at the art of reinventing themselves, Nigerians must hone their senses to better detect that which is fake and do everything to discard same.
•Kene Obiezu, keneobiezu@gmail.com
Despite the wide infrastructure gap in Nigeria’s gas sector, last year, the upstream segment of the industry delivered a significant 77 per cent of its Domestic Gas Delivery Obligation (DGDO) as enshrined in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021.
New data from the 2024 Annual Report of the Gbenga Komolafeled Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC),
also showed that during the year, 2.511 Trillion Cubic Feet (TCF) of Gas was produced. Besides, out of the 2.511 Tcf of gas produced, Joint Venture (JV) companies contributed 1.489 Bcf (59.30 per cent), Production Sharing Contract (PSC) companies produced a total of 0.660 Bcf (26.29 per cent), Sole Risk (SR) companies had an output of 0.255 Bcf (10.17 per cent), while Marginal Fields (MF) produced a total of 0.106 Bcf (4.24 per cent).
However, this was achieved amid Nigeria’s gas infrastructure deficit, which remains one of the most critical barriers to unlocking the full potential of the country’s vast natural gas reserves.
Despite having over 210 Tcf of proven gas, which is Africa’s largest, development has been hampered by a chronic lack of infrastructure across the value chain, from production to distribution and utilisation.
Gas processing capacity is also underdeveloped as many upstream
facilities lack the infrastructure to process associated gas from oil production. This leads to significant flaring, particularly in the Niger Delta, where energy is wasted instead of harnessed for power or export.
In terms of domestic gas consumption in Nigeria, the power sector largely dominates, followed by the industrial sector, and then the refining sector as well as the petrochemical sector and residential, commercial, as well as transport uses.
In the just-released report, the
NUPRC listed the challenges militating against DGDO performance to include: Inadequate in-country gas infrastructure and interconnectivity; gas transmission pressure challenges; unreliability of the off-takers in taking allocated nominations; frequent outages as well as gas inventory challenges.
In terms of grid power infrastructure constraint, it listed the issues as: challenges with transmission grid capacity and reliability and rejection of
power load by power distribution companies, leading to reduced gas offtake.
The NUPRC also mentioned security issues as a key challenge, including vandalism and theft in the Niger Delta area affecting liquid evacuation and gas production, for example on the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) and the Nembe Creek Trunk Line (NCTL).
James Emejo in Abuja
Mechanised Agricultural Investment and Services (MAIS) Limited, has launched a $5 billion AssuredInvest Cooperative Trust Fund to “unlock full economic potential of our people, farmlands, small businesses, and national future”.
The fund is described as one of the most transformative financial vehicles ever created for the cooperative sector in Africa.
Speaking at the launch in Abuja over the weekend, Chief Vision Officer, MAIS, Mr. Benjamin Aduli, said the fund remained, “A bold declaration that cooperative capital—when properly structured, transparently governed, and purposefully deployed—can unlock the full economic potential of our people, our farmlands, our small businesses, and our national future.”
He noted that for decades, the Nigerian cooperative system had
been treated as an afterthought— underutilised, underfinanced, and underestimated.
He said, “Today, that era ends. With this Fund, we are shifting from marginalisation to mobilisation.”
He said the fund was particularly historic given that it is demand-driven.
“Unlike traditional financing models that are supplydriven—flooding the market with unsolicited capital—this
fund responds only to verified cooperative demand - It is tailored to the real, structured needs of cooperative members— whether that’s a rice farmer in Lokoja, a housing cooperative in Enugu, an MSME cluster in Kaduna, or a youth cooperative in Abeokuta“ he said.
Aduli further explained that the fund is backed by institutional capital, governed by cooperative law, not securities law, and driven
by clear cooperative use-cases: food production, mechanisation, housing, education, clean energy, and digital inclusion.
He said, “It is not a public investment scheme. It is a secured cooperative financing framework, created by members, for members, and through members.
“The fund will be administered transparently with the oversight of trustee banks, insurance underwriters, and cooperative
federations—including our partners.”
He listed the partners to include, Cooperative Financing Agency of Nigeria (CFAN), National Agricultural Cooperative Organisation (NACO), Cooperative Housing Federation of Nigeria (COHFON), and Akilaah National Cooperative Federation (Akilaah).
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Court Dismisses Ecobank’s
Wale Igbintade
The Lagos Division of the Court of Appeal has struck out an appeal filed by Ecobank Nigeria Plc against Kam Industries Nigeria Limited over the issuance of a hearing notice in a $9.5 million foreign exchange dispute.
In a unanimous decision, the threemember panel - Justices Folashade Ojo (presiding), Paul Ahmed Bassi, and Ngozika Okaisabor - upheld a preliminary objection raised by Kam Industries, ruling that the appeal, filed on April 29, 2025, was incompetent. The court also awarded N1 million in costs to the respondents.
The dispute arose from a ruling by Justice Daniel Osiagor of the Federal High Court in Lagos, which modified a Mareva injunction in the case between Ecobank and Kam Industries over an alleged $9.5 million credit transaction.
Justice Osiagor had granted Kam Industries a one-time release of N500 million to pay outstanding
salaries to over 4,000 employees nationwide.
Earlier, the court had issued a Mareva injunction freezing assets across 25 banks and financial institutions linked to the defendants, pending the outcome of the main suit (FHC/L/CS/1748/2024).
Other defendants in the case include Dr. Kamoru Yusuf and Kamsteel Integrated Company.
However, Ecobank, represented by Kemi Balogun, SAN, challenged the issuance of a hearing notice dated April 14, 2025, arguing that it was issued without a formal application from either party.
The notice scheduled the case for hearing on April 30, 2025, even though a ruling on the Mareva injunction was already scheduled for June 4, 2025.
Ecobank contended that by setting an earlier date, the Federal High Court had unilaterally abridged the ruling date and acted outside its jurisdiction. The
bank subsequently filed a notice of appeal and a motion to stay further proceedings.
In response, Kam Industries, through its counsel Yusuf Ali, SAN, argued that there was no valid decision of the trial court upon which an appeal could be based. He described the appeal as a gross abuse of court process, academic, and hypothetical, having been filed without the leave of court—required where the appeal involves mixed issues of law and fact.
Emmanuel Addeh in abuja
Revenues collected by Nigeria’s electricity Distribution Companies (Discos) rose to N553.63 billion in the first quarter of 2025, new data from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has shown.
In the Q1 report, the power sector regulator stated that this was out of a total billing of N744.27 billion issued to customers within the period under review, representing a collection efficiency of 74.39 per cent.
Delivering the lead judgment, Justice Ojo held that an appeal must be founded on a valid decision of the lower court.
She stated: “A hearing notice is merely an administrative act by the court registry to notify parties of hearing dates. It is not a decision or order capable of being appealed against.”
Justice Ojo also noted that the grounds of appeal raised factual issues for which Ecobank failed to seek the court’s leave.
The appellate court concluded
that the appeal amounted to an abuse of court process and was academic, as a hearing notice neither conferred nor extinguished any legal rights.
“An appeal is academic where it raises abstract questions and does not affect the legal rights of the parties,” Justice Ojo ruled.
“The issuance of a hearing notice does not in itself create or extinguish any rights or liabilities. Determining this appeal would serve no utilitarian or practical value, and I so hold. The foundation
of this appeal is faulty. It is not based on any valid decision of the lower court. It is completely academic and I so hold.”
Having resolved all five issues in favour of Kam Industries, the court upheld the preliminary objection.
“In consequence of the success of the preliminary objection, I hold that the appeal filed on April 29, 2025, is incompetent and it is accordingly struck out with costs assessed at N1million in favour of the respondents/objectors against the appellant.”
Emmanuel Addeh in abuja
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has launched a line ‘reconductoring’ project in Kano to improve power transmission reliability across Northern Nigeria.
The project involves upgrading the ageing Kumbotso-Dakata 132kV Double-Circuit Transmission Line, which has been a major bottleneck affecting supply to key industrial hubs like the Dakata Industrial Zone and the upcoming Walalambe Transmission Substation, TCN spokesperson, Ndidi Mbah, said
in a statement.
The project, expected to be completed within 12 months, includes critical upgrades such as replacing obsolete dog conductors with high-capacity ones , installing Optical Ground Wire (OPGW) for enhanced communication and monitoring, and deploying durable composite polymer insulators suited for harsh environmental conditions.
TCN’s General Manager, Transmission Services, Ali Sharifai emphasised the project’s importance, stating that it’s not just infrastructure renewal but about restoring confidence in the transmission network and empowering industries and communities through reliable electricity.
The project is part of TCN’s efforts to enhance power infrastructure and economic development in the region.
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Similar projects, TCN said include: The reconductoring of the Kankia-Katsina 132kV transmission line, expected to last between five and six weeks, and the upgrade of transmission lines in Port Harcourt, aimed at increasing line capacity and reducing power interruptions.
The TCN said it has also completed 22 power transmission projects and upgrades since 2020, including delivering four units of 132 kilovolts transmission substations and upgrading 15 existing substations with higher capacity transformers and equipment .
“TCN is committed to contributing its quota to the country’s economic and social development through impactful transmission infrastructural development,” the statement added.
According to the NERC report, while Eko Disco led the pack with at 84.79 per cent collection efficiency, Jos Disco recorded the
lowest collection efficiency, with 47.19 per cent.
In the same vein, the report showed that only Kano, whose collection efficiency improved by 6.55 per cent, Abuja, with 4.81 per cent and Enugu with 0.72 per cent recorded improvements in collection efficiency between the last quarter of 2024 and the first quarter of 2025.
It added that the remaining eight Discos recorded declines in collection efficiency with Port Harcourt Disco’s collection efficiency reducing by 15.11 per cent, Kaduna 7.12 per cent and Eko reducing by 5.21 per cent .
“The total revenue collected in Q1 was N553.63bn out of N744.27bn
billed to customers, translating to a 74.39 per cent collection efficiency, a 3.05 percentage point drop from Q4 2024,” the NERC report stated.
There was also the perennial issue of Aggregate Technical, Commercial and Collection (ATC&C) losses, which was 39.61 per cent during the period, above the 20.54 per cent benchmark.
“The loss, made up of technical/ commercial (18.82 per cent) and collection (25.61 per cent) losses, resulted in N200.495 billion in cumulative revenue loss,” the commission’s report said.
In the same vein, during the quarter, a total of 187,194 meters were installed, a 0.41 per cent increase from Q4, 2024, bringing
the national metering rate to 46.98 per cent, the NERC report said, with the Meter Asset Provider (MAP) scheme (148,713 meters or 79.44 per cent) accounting for the bulk of installations.
However, 36,787 meters were installed under the Meter Acquisition Fund (MAF), 1,074 via Disco-financed projects, and 620 from vendor-financed efforts, NERC added.
The NERC report stated that Discos resolved only 1,554 of the 4,169 complaints escalated to its Consumer Complaints Unit, a 37.27 per cent resolution rate, with the leading sources of complaints related to metering, billing, and service interruptions.
Chairman, SIFAX Group, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, has advocated for an overhaul of infrastructure at the country’s seaports.
Speaking at the 7th edition of the Taiwo Afolabi Annual Maritime (TAAM) Conference held at the weekend at the University of Lagos, Afolabi noted that the provision of the relevant infrastructure at ports across the country was the bedrock of an efficient port system that will tap into the enormous potential of the country’s maritime
industry.
He said: “Nigeria’s blue economy Is a sleeping giant. We have untapped potential along our vast coastline that, if harnessed responsibly, can create new jobs, strengthen our ports, attract investments, and safeguard our environment for future generations. Infrastructure is at the heart of this transformation. Modern, resilient, and sustainable infrastructure will drive efficiency and competitiveness in our ports
and maritime corridors.”
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, who was the Special Guest of Honour at the event, highlighted key reforms by the federal government to reposition the maritime industry as a pillar of national development.
“The National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy provides a coordinated framework for opportunities in ports, fisheries, ocean governance, marine biotechnology,
renewable energy, and coastal tourism,” he noted.
The minister revealed ongoing projects such as the Western Ports Rehabilitation Programme, the reconstruction of Apapa and Tin Can Ports, and the planned revival of the National Carrier through a public-private partnership model. He stressed that sustainability must guide all infrastructure modernisation efforts, with emphasis on energy efficiency, carbon reduction and waste minimisation.
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
Green Energy International Limited/Lekoil and Gas Investment
Limited (GEIL/LEKOIL) Joint Venture has applauded the President Bola Tinubu’s led government for fostering an environment that empowers host communities.
This is as GEIL/LEKOIL in partnership with the Ugama Ekede, Ayama Ekede, Asukama, and Asukoyet Host Community Development Trust (UAAA HCDT), has awarded scholarships and bursaries to over 1,200 students
in Andoni Local Government Area, Rivers State.
Representative of the GEIL/ LEKOIL Joint Venture, HRH Serena-Dokubo Spiff, commended the Tinubu’s government, at the inauguration of key community projects, including the Asukama Community Town Hall, renovated Community Primary School in Asukoyet, and a rehabilitated Universal Basic Education (UBE) block at the Community Secondary School in Ekede, at the weekend. Spiff said, “In the old system, communities had to go cap in hand to oil companies. But the
PIA changed everything. Now, 3% of operating costs is legislated to be handed over to the community, to be managed by them, for them. This is the democratisation of opportunity. Communities are now in charge of their own future.”
He praised the UAAA HCDT for its accomplishments and encouraged continued accountability in managing community development funds.
THISDAY observed at the event that, scholarship was awarded to over 1, 200 pupils in primary and secondary schools, as well as undergraduate and postgraduate
students from the four communities. Chairman of the UAAA HCDT Board of Trustees, Asuk Nathan Sampson, stated that the Trust is focused on improving education and infrastructure across host communities.
“Over 1,200 individuals from the four communities have benefitted from the bursary and scholarship scheme,” he said. In addition to our educational and empowerment initiatives, we have over 20 projects underway—some completed, others ongoing. More are scheduled for commissioning before the end of the year.”
L-R: Chair, Executive Council, The Sustainability Professionals Institute of Nigeria (SPIN), Ms. Kemi Sokenu-Morris; Vice Chair, Executive Council, Eustace Onuegbu; Vice President and Trustee, Ini Abimbola; Director, Advocacy and Stakeholder Relations, Ismail Omamegbe; Executive Committee Member (Finance), Dr. Akinkunle Akiode; CEO, Transatlantic Development Limited and Moderator, Dr. Bankole Alibay at the 5th Induction Ceremony of SPIN held in Lagos...recently
PUBLIC NOTICE
COMMENCEMENT OF LICENSING FOR THE PROVISION OF INTERNATIONAL A2P MESSAGING AGGREGATOR SERVICES
The Nigerian Communications Commission is the Independent National Regulatory Authority for the communications sector in Nigeria. The Commission is responsible for creating an enabling environment for competition among operators in the industry as well as ensuring the provision of qualitative and efficient telecommunications services throughout the country
Pursuant to the provisions of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, Licensing Regulation s 2019 and other subsidiary legislation, the Commission has created an enabling environment where various players provide diverse services based on licences issued by the Commission.
In this regard, the Commission hereby introduces the International Application-to Person (A2P) Messaging Aggregator Service Licence as part of measures to enhance regulatory oversight, security of service and quality of service in the delivery of international A2P messaging traffic into Nigeria. The Licence will provide a structured and transparent framework for managing the flow of international messaging traffic through the Commission’s authorised platform.
Applicants are to note the following:
⧫ Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) are not eligible to apply for the A2P Messaging Aggregator Service Licence.
⧫ Where an applicant will rely on a technical partner to deploy the service , one unique suitable and competent technical partner is allowed per applicant
⧫ Licence Application Form can be downloaded from the Commission ’s website https://www.ncc.gov.ng/industry/licensing/apply -licence
⧫ You may refer to the A2P Framework published on the Commission ’s website for guidance on the fee structure, the scope of operation, and other requirements.
⧫ Applicants are expected to pay 5% of the Licence fee as non -refundable administrative charge on submission of the application.
⧫ Should you require any clarification, contact the Director, Licensing and Authori sation Department of the Commission at the email address: licensing@ncc.gov.ng
Interested applicants must submit duly completed application forms, together with all supporting documents within seven (7) days of the date of this publication. Any applications submitted after the deadline will not be entertained.
Dated this 8th day of July, 2025.
Signed: Nnenna Ukoha Head, Public Affairs Department
A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.
An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the
floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.
A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.
GUIDE TO DATA:
Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 04 Jujy-2025, unless otherwise stated.
DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS
INSTALLATION CEREMONY OF ROTARIAN CLARE AS THE 41ST PRESIDENT OF ROTARY CLUB, IKOYI...
L-R: Immediate Past President,
Natasha: Suspension Couldn’t Stop Me from Serving My People
Flags-off smart markets in Kogi
Despite her suspension from the senate, Senator Natasha AkpotiUduaghan has declared that her commitment to the people of Kogi Central has remained unwavering.
A statement yesterday by her
media office explained that the senator made the declaration, when she flagged-off the construction of two state-of-the-art smart markets in Okene and Okehi local government areas.
The project, according to the statement, was part of her wide-ranging
constituency development plan.
It also clarified that the projects were aimed at transforming local trade infrastructure, empowering grassroots businesses, especially women traders, and stimulating economic growth in the senatorial district.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, the statement further explained, emphasised that political distractions had not deterred her from delivering the democratic dividends her constituents deserved.
She said, “I never stopped working for my people. Politics ends after elections; what matters is performance.
I represent all the good people of Kogi Central, regardless of political affiliation.”
Each of the markets, the statement added, will feature 80 modern shop units; 40 lock-up stores and 40 open stalls.
They are equipped with solar-
Peter Obi: Nigeria Must Invest Heavily on Health, Education to Liberate People from Poverty
Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City
powered electricity, boreholes, modern sanitation facilities, sockets, truckfriendly loading bays, and security lighting to ensure safe and efficient market operations.
He stated that every nation must invest heavily in health and education to be truly wealthy.
Obi stated, “Like I always say, education is one of the most important investments you can do
Former presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP), Mr. Peter Obi, says health and education are the most important investments one can make for humanity, stressing, “These are the things a nation is expected to do in order to liberate citizens from poverty.” Obi stated this on Monday in Benin City, capital of Edo State, at the premises of St Philomena Hospital School of Nursing Sciences, where he donated N15 million for the completion of an ongoing building project.
to uplift
humanity. Number two, is health. It is said that a healthy nation is a wealthy nation. So, we must invest in health.
“The most important measurable development is health, education and pulling people out of poverty. I am concentrating on the three of them. That is why every week, I go to health facilities and schools around the country to support them.
PINL Boss Receive Accolades for Effective Youth Engagement in N’Delta
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
The American branch of the Ijaw National Congress (INC-A), has applauded the Managing Director of Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria (PINL), Osahon Okunbo, for his positive strides in piloting effective youth engagement, community services and leadership within the Niger Delta communities.
The group made the commendation award presentation to Okunbo, at a global convention, which brought together prominent Nigerian leaders and dignitaries from the Niger Delta region and across the globe.
The INC-A convention, themed “Effective Leadership in Ijaw Nation,” featured notable speakers and guests, including President of the Ijaw National Congress, Prof. Benjamin Okaba, former President of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, among others.
Reacting to the award, Okunbo noted that leaders in Niger Delta region owe their youths more
commitments than promises.
In his address at the convention, Okunbo said the young people in the Niger Delta were watching to see if the promises made to them would hold.
Expressing his appreciation to the INC-Americas for the award, Okunbo who was represented at the convention by Tari Alamesiegha and Ikenna Ukwa stated: “To be honoured by this community means more than I can say.
“This is not just an award, it is a reflection. A moment to pause and take stock of what the journey has been, what it has demanded, and what it continues to require”.
In the speech, delivered by Ikenna Ukwa, the PINL boss stated: “When we began this work, the terrain was as layered as the region itself, years of tension, environmental damage, broken promises. There was a quiet fatigue in the air, a sense that things might never truly change”.
Okunbo reflected on his journey, acknowledging the challenges and the importance of rebuilding trust and hope in the communities he serves.
He emphasised the significance of responsible leadership, highlighting that true leadership lay not in visibility but in accountability and service to others.
Reflecting further on the Niger Delta struggles, Okunbo said: “We didn’t arrive with declarations. We came with a quiet commitment to do things differently. We listened. We partnered with traditional institutions, with youths, with local leadership. We didn’t get everything right. But we stayed. We showed up again and again.
“And something began to shift. Communities that once turned away began to lean in. Incidents dropped. Dialogue returned. And through consistent partnership, we began to see not just operational wins but human ones. Trust restored. Jobs reignited. Young people daring to hope again.
“That’s what this work has always been about. It’s easy to build pipelines. Much harder to rebuild trust. But that’s the work. And that’s where the heart of leadership lies not in visibility, but in responsibility.
“You can’t talk about health without talking about human capital infrastructure in it. The most important infrastructure in health are the nurses because they are the closest to the patients.”
While calling on government and well-meaning Nigerians to invest in the youth, Obi said life without support or help to humanity was not worth living.
Obi, who predicted that the world might experience shortage of nurses
by 2030 because their services were always in high demand, disclosed that he visited over 50 nursing schools and hospitals every year to support them.
In his vote of thanks, Provost of the school, Rev. Fr. Jerome Idebe, thanked Obi for his gesture. Idebe, who recalled that the former presidential candidate also visited the school last year to donate huge sums of money, thanked him for his support to the school.
The smart markets will be located at Ihima Central Market in Oboroke (Okehi LGA) and a newly designated Community Market in Okene LGA. Both sites were selected for their accessibility, population density, and future expansion potential. Construction is expected to be completed by November 2025 to coincide with Akpoti-Uduaghan’s second anniversary in office. Traditional rulers, women groups, and youth organisations present at the event commended the senator’s resilience and proactive leadership, describing her as “a beacon of hope in the face of political adversity”. Akpoti-Uduaghan reaffirmed her inclusive style of governance, pledging to continue rolling out impactful projects across Kogi Central in the months ahead.
She said, “Service to the people transcends political affiliation. The work continues, no matter the obstacles.”
The Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN) will convene its flagship 52nd Annual General Meeting and Congress from July 17-19 at JAGZ Hotel, Ibadan.
This year’s theme, “Charting Bold Paths Forward,” reflects the industry’s shared commitment to embracing innovation, resilience, and transformative leadership in a rapidly changing environment.
The three-day gathering will feature a compelling blend of cultural heritage, strategic dialogue, and professional celebration.
The first day will see delegates pay a courtesy visit to Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Senator Rasheed Ladoja, a tradition that echoes AAAN’s longstanding respect for host communities and cultural roots.
The official conference will begin on July 18 and will be declared open by Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State.
He is expected to be joined by dignitaries, including the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi, and
the Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, alongside the DirectorGeneral of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), Dr. Lekan Fadolapo, setting the tone for high-level discourse and coordination.
A centrepiece of the day will be the keynote address from Dr. Cherry Eromosele, Executive Vice President & Group Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at Interswitch Group, followed by a panel discussion chaired by Dr. Tayo Oyedeji, Group CEO of Insight Publicis Group Nigeria.
Confirmed panel speakers include Josiah Akinola of Nigerian Breweries PLC; Bolanle Osotule of Airtel Nigeria; George Onukwu of TBWA\ Concept; Oluwatobi Williams of 7even Interactive; and Adedamola Richard Salvador of Digisplash Limited AAAN President, Mr. Lanre Adisa, noted this year’s theme is indicative of the AAAN’s readiness to be courageous in embracing innovation and vision.
“This is not the time to tiptoe
around the future. Boldness is not a buzzword but the only language the future understands. In a landscape defined by constant change, boldness is not a gamble but a strategic imperative. Those who will lead tomorrow are those willing to question today,” said Adisa.
The final day of the event shifts focus to governance and celebration and will have two segments: Business Session and Gala/Award Night. The highlights of the former include leadership updates and the induction of new members while the latter will see deserving advertising professionals recognized and rewarded while dressed in aso oke regalia.
Founded in 1973, AAAN is Nigeria’s oldest and most influential collective of advertising agencies. Its annual AGM is a pivotal industry tradition, one that consolidates strategic progress, regulatory alignment, cross-sector collaboration, and storytelling that positions the Nigerian advertising industry on a bold, credible future trajectory.
Rotary Club of Ikoyi, Rotarian Emmanuel Efuntayo; Wife of the District Governor, Mrs. Iyabo Adedoyi; the District Governor, Rotary International District 9112, Rotarian Lanre Adedoyin; newly inaugurated President of Rotary Club of Ikoyi, Rotarian Clarence Omatseye; and her spouse, Mr. Omatseye, at the installation ceremony of Rotarian Clare as the 41st President of Rotary Club of Ikoyi, held at MUSON Centre, Lagos, on Sunday
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
Public hEaring On amEndmEnt Of thE 1999
L-R: Deputy Minority Leader of the Senate, Senator Olarere Oyewunmi; Leader of the Senate/Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, Senator
Chairperson, Senate Committee on Health, Senator Ipalibo Harry-Banigo and Chairperson, Senate Committee on Humanitarian Affairs & Poverty Reduction, Senator
the end of the two-day zonal public hearing on the ongoing amendment of the 1999 Constitution in Ikeja, Lagos State … Saturday
NLC Urges FG to Address Hardship, Hasten Roll-out of CNG Infrastructure
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) appealed to the federal government to expedite the rollout of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) infrastructure nationwide as a means of lowering the cost of transportation and its adverse effect on the prices of goods and services
While commending the government for the donation of CNG buses, the labour movement said the provision of more CNG infrastructure across the country would help reduce the crippling effects of high transportation costs on workers and the broader populace,
NLC made the appeal in a communique issued at the end its Central Working Committee meeting in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The communique, jointly signed by NLC President, Joe Ajaero and General Secretary, Emmanuel Ugboaja, said the meeting also resolved to intensify engagements with all tiers of government to press for immediate policy interventions to ameliorate the economic suffering of
Nigerians, particularly workers who were the engine room of national productivity.
NLC said the government needed to urgently set up the necessary infrastructure to support the CNG initiative.
“This measure, if effectively implemented, will ease the burden of mobility costs and mitigate the inflationary pressures confronting households,” it said.
In addition, NLC reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the defence of democracy, economic justice, and social progress.
NLC also accused some employers of labour of undermining the principle of voluntarism in trade union membership.
It said the practice constituted a direct assault on workers’ fundamental rights, an affront to Nigeria’s international obligations under International Labour Organisation (ILO) Conventions, and an egregious abuse of authority.
The apex labour organisation directed all affiliate unions to not only reject and resist any attempt
to impose union membership on workers, but also to mobilise and proceed to picket any employer engaging in such illegal actions.
NLC stated in its communique,
“The CWC notes with grave concern the persistent and growing
trend whereby certain employers are wilfully violating the Trade Union Act 2005.
“The Act, in clear and unequivocal terms, upholds the principle of voluntarism as a cardinal pillar of trade unionism in Nigeria,
guaranteeing every worker the unfettered right to freely join any trade union of their choice without coercion, intimidation, or interference.
“It is utterly unacceptable that, despite the express provisions of
the law, some employers continue to dictate, compel, or otherwise manipulate workers to belong to specific unions, often citing spurious reasons relating to job classification, grade levels, or other self-serving justifications.”
Lagos Poised to Unlock Over 5,000 Investors, Policymakers for Enterprise Growth
Segun James
Over 5,000 potential investors, policymakers, industry leaders, development partners, and global stakeholders are to converge in Lagos to explore bold solutions that will drive infrastructure expansion, unlock financing and deepen enterprise growth. Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose, disclosed this at a press conference to officially announce gatherings of the Lagos
Rotary Raises Funds to Fight Fire in Ikoyi
Omatseye, Orjiako, Onosode, Ajumogobia, Ajogwu Lead Charge Targets N80m for fire, health, other projects
The Rotary Club of Ikoyi, District 9112 on Sunday in Lagos led the charge to fight fire in the Lagos State, particularly in Ikoyi, with a successful fund raiser to provide adequate equipment and support to the Fires Service in the state, particularly Ikoyi.
The event which brought together various dignitaries from all works of life was the installation ceremony of Rotarian Clare Omatseye as her 41st president, as well as, induction of the 2025-2026 Board Members, held at the Muson Center, in Lagos, with a target to raise over 80 million Naira for fire-fighting, health care and other projects.
The fund-raising ceremony for humanitarian service projects, held under the distinguished Chairmanship of Mr. Spencer Onosode, was fully supported by Dr & Mrs. A.B.C. Orjiako, Mr. & Mrs. Odein Ajumogobia and Mr. Roosevelt Ogbonna, all of who took on the challenge to become celebrities fire fighters. Also joining the charge was the newly installed District Governor, Rotary International District 9112, Rotarian Lanre Adedoyin, who felicitated with the Rotary Club
of Ikoyi on the installation of her 41st president and board of directors and to give it his maximum support to make the project become a great success.
The highpoint of the installation ceremony was the unveiling of the pet-project of the newly installed president Rotarian Omatseye, which is equipping the Ikoyi Fire Fighting Service with a functional bore hole, PPEs, as well as other necessary equipment at cost running into multi millions of Naira.
In his message, the Chairman Mr. Spencer Onosode noted that the newly installed President, Clare Omatseye will bring her professionalism, commitment and passion towards human capital development, as espoused in her action plan for the Rotary Year 2025/2026, a great ground for donors to partner with the club in her humanitarian projects Clare Omatseye is a committed Rotarian with over 22 years in Rotary service, with numerous contributions to the Rotary Foundation. She is a dedicated Paul Harris Fellow and has served Rotary in various capacities as; International Service Director, Committee Chairs, Rotary
Foundation Chair, Vice President 2 & 1, President Elect and now 41st President, Rotary.
The outgoing President, Emmanuel Efuntayo, in his Address, outlined the various legacy programs and projects embarked upon by the Rotary Club of Ikoyi during his tenure as President. With the provision of a 9.2 million Naira solar powered device to the Motherless Babies Home in Lekki, a gesture acknowledged with a commendation letter from the Lagos State Government as a case in point.
The keynote Speaker, Professor Fabian Ajogwu, in his speech ‘Building Sustainable Communities through collaborative action,’ called for all hands to be on deck towards achieving lasting development. In his words, “a sustainable community thrives across generations. It addresses multiple human needs simultaneously, ensures diverse voices have decision-making power, and creates shared prosperity. It integrated environmental stewardship (including renewable energy, local food production, and waste reduction), economic inclusion, and socially equity into a comprehensive, long-term plan.’
Investors Summit 2.0 and Africa Social Impact Summit (ASIS) 2025.
Ambrose said the high-level events will take place on Wednesday, July 9, for the Lagos Investment Summit 2.0., while the Africa Social Impact Summit will hold from Thursday, July 10 to Friday, July 11 at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The two-day summit has the objectives to establish a collaborative framework among the public/private sectors and the development community to create measurable impact through influence and advocacy; and provide impact investment opportunities for social enterprises in critical sectors
The theme for this year’s Lagos Investment Summit 2.0 is, “Scaling Action: Bold Solutions Towards Making Lagos a 21st Century Economy,” derived from the general theme of the Africa Social Impact Summit, “Scaling Action: Bold Solutions for Climate Resilience and Policy Innovation.”
Ambrose stated that at the 2024’s summit, not less than 5,000 participants came together for the
event, adding that because of the strategic importance of the event, more participants are expected for this year’s.
The commissioner said, “The theme of the Lagos Investment Summit 2.0 reflects our unwavering commitment to building a globally competitive economic powerhouse. We are shifting from dialogue to delivery, from potential to performance, and from planning to implementation.
“The Lagos Investors Summit 2.0 is more than a meeting; it is a platform for actionable collaboration. It will bring together visionary investors, policymakers, industry leaders, development partners, and global stakeholders to explore bold solutions that will drive infrastructure expansion, unlock financing, deepen enterprise growth, and power digital innovation - all towards making Lagos a 21st century economy.
“The summit will be followed by a networking where delegates can forge meaningful partnerships that will shape the future of the state’s economy.
“A key feature of the summit is the Deal Rooms where the state’s investment potentials would be pitched to potential investors.
“This is expected to be anchored by political heads in the various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) and other senior government representatives.”
Ambrose added, “This summit comes at a pivotal time as Lagos continues to lead the way in sub-Saharan Africa, attracting investment, harnessing talent, and building infrastructure that supports inclusive prosperity.”
The commissioner said key sectors to watch out for included civil infrastructure, transportation, technology, green energy, creative economy, real estate, blue economy, and agribusiness.
“The deal rooms would facilitate one-on-one and matchmaking sessions for serious investors, in addition to interaction with government officials, global investors, Development Finance Institutions (DFIs), multilateral organisations, and business executive,” she added.
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has urged the Revenue Moblisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission(RMAFC) to help the state get more revenue in federal allocation.
He made the demand Sunday when he received in audience a delegation of the RMAFC led by Abia’s representative, Nkechi Oti, that came to present reports on her findings after familiarisation visit and stakeholders engagements in the state.
A government house release said that Governor Otti was in his office on Sunday to receive the RMAFC team.
Abia is believed to be losing huge revenues in federal allocations following the unresolved issue of its oil wells ceded to neighbouring Rivers State.
“Anything you can do to help us increase our federal allocation will be very much appreciated by our state and by the government,” Governor Otti told the RMAFC team.
“We have a lot of things on our hands. If we get more money to be able to execute them, why not?
Particularly, we have also shown financial discipline”.
The Abia State chief executive said he has demonstrated financial discipline, which distinguished Abia in the recently released report of the Debt Management Office (DMO).
Otti said the DMO report showed that Abia “has done well in terms of reduction of debts”, adding that it “could only have happened because we are disciplined in terms of how we spend”.
“We only spend when it is absolutely necessary and for the right reasons,” he stated.
While thanking the RMAFC Commissioner for the observations made concerning various areas and agencies of Abia government, Otti said that he has noted them and would take appropriate action.
According to him, his government is a responsible one which believes that things should be done properly, adding that he would take time to read the RMAFC report.
Opeyemi Bamidele;
Oluranti Adebule at
Emmanuel ugwu-nwogo in Umuahia
FULL-SCALE FLOOD PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE SIMULATION...
L-R: Director, Relief and Rehabilitation, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Alhaji Abdullahi Adamu Usur; Executive Secretary, Kano State Emergency Management Agency, Alhaji Isyaku Kubarachi; Kano State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Alhaji Adamu Aliyu Kibiya; Director General, NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar; Deputy Governor of Kano State, Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo; and Senator representing Jigawa Southwest, Senator Mustapha Khabib, during the courtesy visit of the Director General, NEMA, to the Deputy Governor in Kano as the agency conducted full-scale flood preparedness and response simulation code-named “Ex Ceton Rayuka” held in Wudil, Kano State, on Saturday
43rd Olubadan, Oba Olakulehin, Dies at 90, Tinubu, Makinde, Adeleke, Others Mourn
The 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, has joined his ancestors. He was aged 90.
The Ige Olakulehin family while announcing his passing in a statement by a former Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism in Oyo State, Toye Arulogun, said the monarch joined his ancestors in the early hours of yesterday.
The late Olubadan had celebrated his 90th birthday weekend with activities marking his first coronation anniversary, also due on Saturday, already kicked off with donations to charity homes and hospitals, conferment of honorary chieftaincy titles and the Olubadan Olakulehin Football Cup which reached the semi final stage on Sunday.
Arulogun, in the statement said, “With utmost and profound gratitude to Almighty God, on behalf of the Ige Olakulehin family, I announce the passing of H.I.M Oba (Dr) Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin. Kaabiyesi who joined his ancestors in the early hours of today”
“We are not mourning the passage of the monarch but celebrating his life. He lived an impactful life throughout his 90 years life journey. From his military career, to business, to politics and his ascension a year ago to the throne, Kaabiyesi demonstrated exceptional
lead a transformative global agenda that addressed the twin challenges of climate change and health inequity.
Speaking on behalf of Tinubu, he delivered an address outlining Nigeria’s vision for a just transition and the need for urgent, unified action at the BRICS meeting in Brazil.
Tuggar emphasised that the health of the planet and the health of people, from cities to rural communities, were intrinsically linked and must be treated as such.
He stressing, “The climate emergency heeds no borders. Just like global healthcare, we fix our own problems when we work together.”
Tuggar stated that despite contributing minimally to global emissions, Africa was disproportionately affected by climate change, citing examples from Nigeria, including deadly flooding in Mokwa, increasing desertification in the north, and rising sea levels in the Niger Delta, all of which were taking a toll on lives and livelihoods.
He lamented, “Climate change is not a ‘tomorrow problem’ for Nigeria,” and expressed condolences to victims of recent natural disasters.
The minister called attention to Nigeria’s investments in renewable energy, including hydro and solar, and affirmed the country’s commitment to
qualities worthy of emulation. The family will give periodic updates as developments unfold.”
Born on July 5, 1935, in Okugbaja village, Ita Baale near Akanran in the present-day Ibadan North East Local Government Area of Oyo State, Oba Olakulehin rose through the unique and time-honoured succession system of Ibadanland, which alternates between the civil (Otun) and military (Balogun) lines.
He ascended the throne following the demise of Oba (Dr.) Moshood Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, on March 14, 2024.
A distinguished academic, the late monarch held a master’s degree in administration and economics and pursued doctoral studies and had a passion for research rooted in integrity and public accountability.
He lectured at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and was known for rejecting praise-singing roles, favouring progressive and principledriven scholarship.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has received with deep shock the news of the passing of the Olubadan.
The president, in a statement, extended his heartfelt condolences to the royal family, the government, and people of Oyo State, as well as the entire Ibadanland, on the loss of the revered traditional ruler, statesman, and symbol of peace, wisdom, and continuity.
Tinubu mourned the Olubadan
initiatives, such as the African Carbon Market and the Great Green Wall.
He urged BRICS to increase climate financing support to developing nations, saying such assistance would enable the Global South to pursue ambitious climate targets while maintaining economic growth.
“We believe COP30 must grasp the challenge of allowing the Global South to grow economically while safeguarding our collective responsibility to meet the challenge of climate change,” he said.
On global health, Tuggar warned that the inequities exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic demanded a complete reinvention of global health systems.
“Would so many children still die of malaria if this were a level playing field?” he asked, adding, “COVID-19 was a tragedy, but also a warning.”
Tuggar outlined Nigeria’s LongTerm Vision 2050, which sought to integrate renewable energy, urban efficiency, and climate resilience into national planning. The plan included reforestation and sustainable agriculture projects, as well as knowledge-sharing with countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
He urged COP-30 to rise above “sterile and toothless diplomacy,” arguing that BRICS is well-positioned
and celebrated his remarkable life of service to his people, the state, and the nation.
He described the late monarch as a highly accomplished man of peace, a public servant, and a royal father whose life embodies the highest ideals of leadership, learning, and service.
According to the president: “Oba Owolabi Olakulehin was not only a custodian of Ibadan’s rich history and culture but also a man of intellect and principle whose contributions extended beyond the palace into education, governance, and national development. His passing is a significant loss to Ibadanland and the nation.
“Just last week, I received an invitation from the late Olubadan to his 90th birthday and first coronation anniversary celebrations. Shockingly, his death came days before the anniversary. He will be remembered for upholding the honour and prestige of his highly revered stool.”
Tinubu lauded Oba Olakulehin’s legacy as one that bridged tradition and modernity, adding that his wisdom and moral authority served as a stabilising force in Ibadanland and the wider Yoruba nation.
The president prayed for the peaceful repose of the monarch’s soul and urged the people of Ibadan to take solace in his life and the values he embodied.
Also, the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, while mourning the
to offer a new framework for tackling old and emerging challenges.
Meanwhile, Trump said the U.S. will impose an additional 10 per cent tariff on any country aligning itself with BRICS.
With forums, such as the G7 and G20 groups of major economies hamstrung by divisions and the disruptive “America First” approach of the U.S. president, BRICS is presenting itself as a haven for multilateral diplomacy amid violent conflicts and trade wars.
According to Reuters, in a joint statement from the opening of the BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro, the group had warned that the rise in tariffs threatened global trade, continuing its veiled criticism of Trump’s tariff policies.
Hours later, Trump warned he would punish countries seeking to join with the grouping.
“Any Country aligning themselves with the Anti-American policies of BRICS will be charged an ADDITIONAL 10 per cent Tariff. There will be no exceptions to this policy. Thank you for your attention to this matter!” Trump said in a post on Truth Social.
Trump did not clarify or expand on the “Anti-American policies” reference in his post.
Trump’s administration is seeking
passage of the monarch, said the state would stand by the family at this period and also give the late Olubadan a befitting burial. Makinde played host to a delegation from the family of the late monarch who formally came to inform him about the passing of the Oba Olakulehin.
The delegation from the family included a former President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) and Aare Mayegun of Ibadanland, Chief Bayo Oyero; younger brother of the deceased Olubadan, Mr Osuolale Owolabi Olakulehin and son of the deceased, Aremo Olasumbo Owolabi.
“We don’t always want them to go; we want them to stay with us. But God has designed our bodies for a certain period of time.
“I commiserate with the family and all of us. The government will definitely stay with the family and play whatever roles we are supposed to play, including giving Kabiyesi a befitting burial.
“I will ask all the members of the family to take heart. Coincidentally, today marks the 13th year since my father passed on. So, for the immediate family, I pray for strength,”he said.
Earlier, Oyero said, “We are here this morning with gratitude to God and to formally inform you of the passing away of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Frederick Owolabi Olakulehin, Ige Olakulehin I, who
to finalise dozens of trade deals with a wide range of countries before his July 9 deadline for the imposition of significant “retaliatory tariffs.”
The original BRICS group gathered leaders from Brazil, Russia, India and China at its first summit in 2009. The bloc later added South Africa and last year included Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates as members. Saudi Arabia has held off formally joining, according to sources, while other 30 nations have expressed interest in participating in the BRICS, either as full members or partners.
Indonesia’s senior economic minister, Airlangga Hartarto, is in Brazil for the BRICS summit and is scheduled to go to the U.S. on Monday to oversee tariff talks, an official told Reuters. India’s foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
In opening remarks to the summit earlier, Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva drew a parallel with the Cold War era’s Non-Aligned Movement, a group of developing nations that resisted joining either side of a polarised global order.
“BRICS is the heir to the NonAligned Movement,” Lula told leaders.
“With multilateralism under attack, our autonomy is in check once again.”
passed away early this morning.
“We thank you very sincerely. In spite of the controversial situation we had before he ascended the throne, you still approved his ascension to the imperial throne of Ibadanland.
“We want to thank your government for all you have done, including a remarkable, historic coronation ceremony, which the government did for him.”
The Senator representing Oyo South, Sharafadeen Alli, in a statement, expressed deep sorrow over the death of the monarch, describing his passing as a monumental loss to Ibadanland, Oyo State and the nation at large.
Alli, who is also the Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland, described the late Olubadan as a symbol of wisdom, peace and continuity, whose brief but impactful reign brought renewed dignity and strength to the Ibadan traditional institution.
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has expressed deep grief over the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, describing the loss as a profound blow not only to Ibadan but to the entire Yoruba nation.
Adeleke extended heartfelt condolences to Governor Makinde,
the Government of Oyo State, the Olubadan-in-Council, the Royal Family, and the people of Ibadan, noting that Oba Olakulehin’s reign though brief was marked by dignity, wisdom, and an unwavering commitment to the progress and unity of the people of Ibadanland.
“Oba Olakulehin was a monarch of profound wisdom and grace. Even within a short reign, he embodied the virtues of Yoruba Royalty’s calm leadership, cultural pride, and unwavering love for his people,” Governor Adeleke said in a condolence message. He added that the late monarch’s passing at the age of 90 marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the traditional institution of Ibadanland and leaves a legacy of selfless service, courage and peace.
“Oba Olakulehin, even in his final days, remained a symbol of continuity, cultural wisdom, and Royal honour. His transition is a great loss not only to the throne of Ibadanland but to the Yoruba people whose values he dutifully upheld,” he said.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has extended its deepest condolences to the family, the government of Oyo, the people of Ibadanland, and the entire Yoruba nation on the passing of Olubadan.
Senate Passes Landmark Law Mandating 30% Local Processing of Raw Materials Before Export
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
In a decisive move aimed at spurring industrialisation and boosting local manufacturing, the Senate has passed a bill requiring that all raw materials intended for export must undergo at least 30 percent local processing.
The bill, which amends the Raw Materials Research and Development Council Act of 2022, was passed following the adoption of a report by the Senate Committee on Science and Technology.
Sponsored by Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi (Ebonyi North), the legislation seeks to curb the export of unprocessed raw materials, promote value addition, and stimulate economic growth through increased local content.
Under the new law, exporters who fail to meet the 30 percent processing threshold will face a 15 percent levy on the export value of the goods and may have their raw material value addition certificates suspended or revoked.
In more severe cases, such exports will be treated as smuggled goods and penalised accordingly under
existing customs and trade laws. The bill assigns the Raw Materials Research and Development Council the responsibility of developing clear benchmarks and guidelines to define what qualifies as 30 percent processing.
This includes consideration of the nature of each material, applied technologies, and compliance with global market standards on quality, safety, and environmental sustainability.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, speaking during plenary on Wednesday, described the bill as a “major step toward industrialisation.” He added that it would reduce the nation’s dependence on imports and unlock new opportunities for domestic industries.
He said, “It will promote sustainable resource management and environmental protection through the adoption of best practices in the utilisation of locally sourced raw materials.
“This legislation is crucial to reducing carbon footprints and supporting the integration of advanced processing technologies in local industries to boost efficiency and product quality.”
Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha in Abuja, Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo and Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan
CHARTING A NEW ERA...
L-R: Alumni/Counselor, Chartered Institute of Counseling in Nigeria (CICN), Mr. Sam Akinosho; Associate, Clinical Counseling, CICN, Dr. Ugoji Tochi; Chairman of the Advisory Board, CICN, Dr. Kevin Donnelly; President, CICN, Dr. Tolulope Oko-Igaire; Alumni/Counselor, Mrs. Ogechi Okoye; and Registrar, Mr. Olaitan Olagoke, at the official transition press conference on “Charting A
Era” from Institute of Counseling in Nigeria (ICN) to Chartered Institute of Counseling in Nigeria (CICN) held in Lagos… recently
Shettima to CTBTO: No Going Back on Nuclear Test Ban in Nigeria
Says Africa’s focus is to address poverty, climate change, not nuclear weapons
Vice President Kashim Shettima has stressed Nigeria’s commitment to a comprehensive nuclear test ban through collaboration with the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban
It matters less if he is rich (but of unknown source of income) or poor. The space is not even big enough to accommodate his Rolls Royce.
‘’Has Wike forgotten so soon how he came to Atiku Abubakar with Makinde and others to beg to be handed the Vice Presidential ticket in 2023? He also lobbied friends and associates of the former Vice President for the same.
‘’Selective amnesia must be a side effect of alcohol because Wike clearly forgets that Atiku trounced him twice — first in Port Harcourt in 2019 and again in Abuja in 2023.
‘’If he still thirsts for humiliation, he should prepare for a third and final defeat — this time, right at his doorstep in Obio-Akpor.
‘’Wike should remember: God is not mocked. The altar is not a podium for propaganda. And the day of reckoning is not far off,’’ he concluded.
ADC Website Crashes Thrice in 48 Hours
The ADC website has reportedly crashed three times in just 48 hours, overwhelmed by a surge of Nigerians seeking information and membership registration following the recent opposition coalition.
The development is being hailed as a barometer of public interest in the emerging alliance between former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and other prominent opposition figures in the country.
The political pact, which was formally unveiled on July 3, aims to forge a common front capable of challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general election.
The repeated outages were brought to public attention by the Special Assistant on Digital Media and Strategy to Atiku, Demola Olarewaju.
Taking to X, Olarewaju said, “ADC website has crashed three times since the coalition was announced: Nigerians have been waiting for an alternative to APC, and it is advertising itself already.”
His comments were met with enthusiasm from coalition supporters and those confounded by the development.
According to one analyst, Sani Kabo, the volume of traffic overwhelming the party’s website is widely seen as indicative of a growing appetite
Treaty Organisation (CTBTO).
According to him, Africa’s priority, at the moment, was to address its existential challenges of poverty and the effects of climate change, not the pursuit of nuclear weapons capability. Shettima disclosed this yesterday,
for political realignment ahead of the next election cycle.
Other political observers drew comparisons between the current coalition-building effort and the 2013 merger that gave birth to the APC, which successfully unseated the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) after 16 years in power.
The present initiative, led by many opposition heavyweights, is seen as potentially capable of replicating that feat, particularly if it could unite Nigeria’s fragmented political base.
“This isn’t just a website crashing. It’s the sound of Nigerians knocking on the door of change,” said a political analyst, who asked not to be named. “People want in. They want to participate.”
While the surge in attention has reignited enthusiasm among supporters of both Atiku and Obi, the coalition leaders sued for caution and a focus on institution-building.
Meanwhile, the ADC has raised the alarm over an alleged plot by some elements within the Tinubu administration to undermine and destabilise the growing opposition coalition.
In a statement yesterday by the Interim National Publicity Secretary of the party, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC revealed that former state chairmen and key members of the party’s state executive committees in the North East and North West have been summoned to a secret meeting with top officials of the federal government.
“We have credible intelligence that the aim of this meeting is not for national security or peacebuilding. It is to intimidate, coerce, and if possible, co-opt these individuals into a fabricated scheme against the opposition coalition. This is not politics. This is sabotage,” the statement statement said According to the ADC, ‘’The motive is clear: to sow confusion within the party, de-legitimise its new leadership, and derail its rising momentum as the new face of the opposition in Nigeria.
“Let it be clear, this surreptitious dalliance with the ADC State Chairpersons by appointees of the federal government who should be focused on urgent national security priorities and challenges that the country is facing is a coordinated assault on multiparty democracy. This is how one-party states are born—through intimidation.
when he received in audience at the State House, the Executive Secretary of the CTBTO, Dr. Robert Floyd.
He noted that: “The outcome of any nuclear conflict is never a win-win situation; it is always the opposite.
“We are fighting poverty; we are
“The July 1st Coalition Declaration, and the July 2nd unveiling of the ADC, have clearly rattled the ruling party. It is now obvious that the Tinubu administration — having lost the trust of the Nigerian people — cannot withstand the pressure of a united and credible opposition.
‘’But rather than correct its ways, it has resorted to its old playbook of destabilising opposition parties.
“Let it be clear: the coalition movement is an idea whose time has come. This party belongs to every Nigerian who is tired of the lies, the manipulation, and the hardship. It belongs to every Nigerian who wants to restore decency, vision, and justice to governance.
‘’We would therefore not allow a handful of desperate men to turn Nigeria into a one-party dictatorship. And it would be our patriotic duty to resist it with every democratic means available to us.”
Former SGF Dumps APC
Former Secretary to the Government of Federation, David Babachir Lawal, has announced his decision to leave the APC.
In his letter of resignation addressed to the chairman of Bangshika ward in Hong Local Government Area of Adamawa State, dated June 29, 2025, the former Secretary to Government of Federation said the resignation was with immediate effect.
‘’I write to formally notify you of my resignation from the All Progressives Congress. In due course, I will make public my current political affiliations where I plan to join other compatriots to work towards making Nigeria a better living place for all its citizens.
‘’This resignation takes immediate effect. Please, remain blessed and extend my warm regards to other members of your party,’’ he said.
He did not state where his political destination would be, but he is one of the known architects of the ADC
But Farouk Aliyu, a known chieftain of the APC has described the opposition coalition as a group of personally aggrieved politicians driven by self-interest, not ideology.
In response to the formation of ADC, Aliyu, dismissed the alliance as a congregation of individuals driven by personal grievances rather than national interest.
Speaking in an interview with ARISE NEWS on Monday, Aliyu
fighting a war against the relationship between the economy and ecology in sub-Saharan Africa. We have no business dabbling in anything that has to do with nuclear weapons.
“I want to assure and reiterate our commitment to a comprehensive
stated, “I don’t speak on behalf of the presidency, and I don’t agree with what the presidency said, that these guys are posing a threat to democracy. I don’t think so. Whether they are a threat to us, no, they are not. Certainly they are not. We respect them.
“What is the difference between them and us in terms of what they have to offer? The difference is mostly a group of persons who are aggrieved, personally aggrieved, because if you look at each and every one of them, they were part of us.”
He noted that many of those in the coalition were once part of the same political alliance that worked together to unseat former President Goodluck Jonathan and the PDP in 2015.
“They are Nigerians like us, most of them, virtually all of them, were part of us. I mean, we are part of the same team that we came together to dethrone PDP when Jonathan was the president. They are just part of us that have left. But I think the whole country should look at them.”
Aliyu said the motivations behind the coalition were not rooted in ideology or a clear development agenda but in personal discontent.
Frank: Agitation for Northern, Southern Presidency May Affect Coalition
A former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank, has cautioned leaders of the coalition that any attempt to exclude any region from participating in the contest to select a presidential candidate for the coalition would result in a stillbirth for the movement.
He added that those agitating that the South alone must produce presidential candidates for the 2027 presidential election should perish the thought.
Frank, in a statement, was of the opinion that their utterances were not only divisive but cast members of the coalition from the remaining five geopolitical zones as mere tools to attain the presidency.
He pointed out that what should be of concern to the leaders of the coalition in the current dispensation should not be about region but capacity and general acceptability across the country.
“Nigeria needs a president for all Nigerians, not a president for northern or southern Nigeria. We need a presi-
nuclear test ban, and I want to appreciate your organisation for the extra vigilance you have taken, having 337 stations spread across the world. All seven tests conducted by DPR Korea were detected.”
The vice president, while com-
dent that will help tackle and solve the nation’s myriad of challenges, both political, social and economic – like insecurity, unemployment, poverty, deteriorating health and education systems, among others.
“For 2027, the president can come from anywhere, whether north or south. Let the Nigerian electorate vote their choice, whether from north, south, east or west.
“All I’m saying is that Nigerians need a better president, a people’s president that will be elected based on popular mandate. If a Southern or Northern candidate is popular enough for Nigerians to vote for him across board, let him emerge as the president.
“Those saying that the South alone must produce presidential candidates for 2027 should perish the thought because their utterances are not only divisive but cast members of the coalition from the remaining five geopolitical zones as mere tools to attain the presidency.”
“If a Northern candidate wins, fine and good. If a Southern candidate wins, fine and good. They should all support any candidate that emerges to win the presidential elections,” he said.
Ebonyi APC Dismisses Coalition Threats
The chairman of the APC, Ebonyi State chapter, Chief Stanley OkoroEmegha, has said the opposition coalition parties would not make any inroad in the state because of the popularity and performance of Governor Francis Nwifuru.
In a chat with journalists in Abakaliki, the APC Boss revealed that another House of Representatives member from the opposition party in the state would join the party in afew weeks now.
The party had received the member representing Ezza North/Ishieleu federal constituency, Hon. Joseph Nwobashi from All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) with the member representing Afikpo/Edda federal constituency, Hon. Iduma Igariwey and his Ohaozara, Onicha and Ivo federal constituency counterparts, Hon. Nkemkanma Kama remaining in Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP).
“As far as the coalition of political parties is concerned, nobody should panic. APC is on course and Mr.
mending the CTBTO for its role, said, “The beauty of CTBTO’s function is that its monitors also serve civilian purposes, especially in assisting us to detect tsunamis, volcanic seismic activities. Your functions are contributing to the global stability of our ecology.”
President is trying to fix the things that have taken decades to fix and I believe very strongly that Mr. President in partnership with governors of states are working very hard to ensure that Nigeria competes favourably with other countries of the world.
“By a few weeks now, you will see another National Assembly member defecting to join me in APC and that is how prepared we are. It’s just simple. You know that they were up to four and one house of Assembly is now remaining in opposition and he is working very close with us but something is just holding him down.”
ADC Bound to Fail, Declare Ondo Youths
Some youths in Ondo State have expressed pessimism over the formation of the ADC-led coalition, stating that the move would end up in fiasco. The group, under the auspices Akoko Youth Intellectual Movement (AYIM) also expressed support for the Senator representing Ondo North Senatorial District, Jide Ipinsagba. Speaking at a press briefing on Monday in Ikare-Akoko, the Coordinator of the group, Ayejuyo Temitayo, described the coalition as efforts in futility.
His words: “Honestly, this coalition being formed against President Bola Tinubu is bound to fail. The truth is, most of the politicians involved in it don’t carry much political weight.
“They make a lot of noise, but when it comes down to real influence and connection with the people, they fall short. Nigerians are smart, they know who truly has their interest at heart, and that’s why President Tinubu still enjoys strong support across the country.
“Looking ahead to 2027, we are confident that President Tinubu will win again. He has laid a solid foundation and continues to push forward with important reforms.”
Aggrieved ADC Members
Ask Court to Declare Markled Interim Leadership Illegal
In the meantime, three aggrieved members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), have asked a Federal High Court in Abuja, to declare as illegal and unlawful the interim leadership of the ADC under Senator David Mark.
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
New
MOBILISING FOR LAGOS LGA ELECTIONS…
Chairmanship candidate, Itire-Ikate Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. Oluwafemi Odunayo Daniel(fifth right); Chief Host, Hon. Dr. Razaq Mobolaji Balogun(middle); Vice Chairmanship candidate, Itire-Ikate LCDA, Hon. Yetunde Jimba(sixth left); other Councillorship candidates, Itire-Ikate, LCDA, community leaders and others, during the stakeholders’ meeting organised by Hon. Balogun ahead of the forthcoming LGA/LCDA elections in Lagos…recently
Police Arrest Man with Fresh Female Breast, Warn Hoteliers against Cultists in Anambra
David-Chyddy Eleke in awka
Police operatives in Anambra State have arrested a man in possession of fresh female breast suspected to have been harvested for ritual purposes. They also arrested three others suspected to have diverted a truckload of goods meant to be delivered in Asaba, Delta State.
A statement issued by the spokesperson of Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, also revealed that men of the command rescued the kidnapped driver of the truck unhurt.
Ikenga said the feats were all achieved last Saturday and Sunday through the commitment of operatives of the Command in
‘Oborevwori’s Flyovers are Strategic, Not Wasteful’
The Chief Press Secretary to Delta State Governor, Sir Festus Ahon, has faulted comments made by a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Chairman of Ethiope West Local Government Council, Chief Wilson Omene, describing his criticisms of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s infrastructural projects as ill-informed and misleading.
Chief Omene had, in a recent television interview, dismissed the ongoing construction of flyovers in Warri and Effurun, claiming that they were not connected to any economic or productive sector. He also frowned on the governor’s
decision to defect to the APC.
However, responding Ahon described the flyover projects as strategic infrastructure designed to tackle persistent traffic gridlocks and boost economic activities in the twin cities of Warri and Effurun, which are major commercial hubs in Delta State.
“The flyovers, road expansions and a sleepway interchange are not cosmetic. They are long-term investments in urban mobility, ease of doing business, and overall economic growth.”
“These are gateway cities connecting the ports, industries, and the hinterland.”
Oyebanji Swears in Ogunmoye as Ekiti Chief Judge
Gbenga Sodeinde in ado ekiti
Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, yesterday swore in Justice Lekan Ogunmoye as the sixth substantive Chief Judge of the state, with a charge to uphold justice with courage, integrity, and a strong sense of duty
collaboration with other security agencies.
He said a 25 years old man, Samuel Eze, was arrested by a Joint Security Team comprising policemen attached to the Awada Police Station and Anambra
‘ADR
Vigilante Operatives in Jude Onyekwere Street, Awada, Obosi last Sunday at about 3p.m.
According to him, “He was arrested with a woman’s breast, and it was recovered immediately and deposited at the morgue for
preservation, while the suspect is undergoing police interrogations for necessary police investigative actions and prosecution.”
He further added that police officers attached to the Rapid Response Squad, acting on
credible information, rescued a kidnapped driver last Saturday. He said: “The team also recovered a truck loaded with custard powder worth N9.5million and arrested three suspects involved in the criminal act.
Remains Most Effective Means to Conflict Resolution’
Kuni Tyessi in abuja Nigerians, particularly lawyers and other legal practitioners, have been encouraged to use Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in solving conflicts as it remains the most effective way towards the attainment of peace.
Speaking at the signing of a Memorandum of
Understanding(MoU) between The Mediation Training Institute and the International Law Association in Abuja yesterday, the Secretary-General of ILA (Nigeria), Clement Osuya, emphasised that ADR offers a win-win solution for all parties, unlike the traditional court system.
Osuya stressed that ADR mechanisms, such as arbitration,
mediation , and conciliation help preserve relationships while providing faster and more cost-effective justice.
He said: “Lawyers are ministers in the temple of justice. They promote the rule of law. If a lawyer is briefed to go to court, his duty is to analyse the case. If he feels it is necessary to proceed to court, it is within
his professional prerogative to do so.”
“But in Nigeria, many lawyers are also arbitrators. Many are also mediators. In fact, you don’t even need to be formally trained to become a mediator.”
“So, in Nigeria, you find that a lot of lawyers encourage their clients or parties to explore other ways to settle disputes.”
Fiscal Transparency: NECSN Calls for Constitutional Reforms
Raheem Akingbolu
The stage appears set for the longawaited constitutional review and reconciliation of identified gaps in the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) act as the North East Civil Society Network (NECSN), presented a memorandum to the Senate Committee on Constitutional Review, requesting
major amendments to the 1999 constitution.
According to the copy of memorandum, cited by our correspondent, the lacuna in the current RMAFC act was central to the group’s demand and it was premised on the fact that the reform would strengthen the commission’s ability to monitor revenue and ensure accurate and timely remittances to the
Federation account. The group also believes that the amendment will improve transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s fiscal operations.NECSN, a civil society organisation, dedicated to promoting good governance, peace, and development, reiterated in its memorandum that the bill, which is currently awaiting passage seeks to empower the commission to recommend the
FG, SEforALL, GEAPP, Others Collaborate to
removal of executives in revenuegenerating agencies that default on their constitutional mandates. The memorandum, submitted during the Committee’s sitting on July 4th and 5th, 2025, focuses on two major areas- fiscal reform and electoral reform and pointed out their relevance to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions as well as ensuring equitable revenue distribution.
Expand Energy Access
Speaking while performing the swearing-in at the Conference Hall of the Governor’s Office in Ado Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji, who described the judiciary as the last hope of the common man, affirmed that his administration would continue to support the judiciary by prioritizing the welfare of its members and giving the Judge all the needed support to carry out his duties diligently.
Justice Lekan Ogunmoye, who had served as the acting Chief Judge since November 5, 2024, following the passing of his predecessor, Hon Justice Oyewole Adeyeye, was formally ratified by the Ekiti State House of Assembly on July 3, 2025, following a recommendation by the judiciary committee.
ISOPADEC Enrols 315 Staff Members into Health Insurance Scheme
The Managing Director of Imo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ISOPADEC), Chief Austin Onyedebelu, has stated that his commission has enrolled all its 315 staff members into the Imo Health Insurance Scheme (IHIS) costing the establishment a huge sums of money.
He expressed appreciation to the state Governor, Senator Hope
Uzodimma, for his massive support for the commission, insisting that without such tremendous assistance the milestone they have achieved would not have been possible.
Onyedebelu added that the governor has ensured judicious application of the funds allocated to the commission to the extent that the establishment discharges its financial obligations as at when due, including prompt payment of staff salary and to contractors.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed its determination to tackle energy poverty with a high-level stakeholder engagement forum towards the implementation of the National Energy Compact under the Mission 300 initiative.
The government-led forum, which is a critical step towards tackling energy poverty, will hold
on Tuesday(today) July 8, 2025 through the Federal Ministry of Power and the Federal Ministry of Finance, in collaboration with Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL).
Tagged Mission 300, the initiative is championed by the World Bank Group and the African Development Bank, with key support from The Rockefeller
Foundation, the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) and SEforALL.
The project is geared towards achieving the ambitious goal of connecting 300 million people across Africa to electricity by 2030, alongside other African countries.
Nigeria is one of 12 countries selected for the first phase of
Mission 300 implementation and has committed to bold reforms to expand energy access, scale up renewable energy and attract private sector investment. To drive this effort, the government has established a high-level Compact Delivery and Monitoring Unit (CDMU) to oversee and coordinate the delivery of Mission 300 targets.
Commissioner: Otu ‘ll Not Undermine the Interest of C’River Cocoa Farmers
Bassey Inyang in Calabar
The Cross River State Government has given the assurance that the state Governor, Bassey Out, would not implement any policy that would be detrimental to the interest of cocoa farmers in the state.
The state Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Johnson Ebokpo, stated this yesterday while responding to enquires by THISDAY following recent waves of protest by smallholder farmers in Cocoa Estates located in some communities in Etung Local Government Area of the state.
In response to government’s position concerning the protests by the cocoa farmers, the commissioner said the protest wasn’t necessary, and gave the assurance that the issues would be sorted out in interest of the people.
Ebopko hinged the concern of the people to possible miscommunication along the line.
“This issue will be sorted out in their interest as there is no need for any protest.
“They may have been a miscommunication between the State Privatization Council which issued the tender notice and the Governor’s Office,” the commissioner said.
“The governor has the best interest of the Etung people at heart. He will not do anything to undermine their interest.”
Diaspora Groups Renew Pressure on South-east against Ruga
Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in umuahia
Following inkling that the federal government is still bent on acquiring lands for ranching, the governors of the South-east states have, again, been asked not to get involved in the agenda
of “federal land grabbing” for disguised Ruga project.
The latest warning was handed down by three Southeast Diaspora groups based in the United States of America, including Ambassadors for SelfDetermination USA, American Veterans of Igbo Descent(AVID), and Rising Sun Group.
In a joint statement issued yesterday , made available to the media via e-mail, the three groups insisted that no land should be allocated in the South-east for government to give out to individuals to engage in ranching.
The statement was signed by Ben Nwankwo and Evans Nwankwo Executive Directors of Ambassador for Self-Determination USA; Chief Sylvester Onyia, President, American Veterans of Igbo Descent AVID; Maxwell Dede and Rev Father Augustine Odimegwa of the Rising Sun Group.
Amby Uneze in Owerri
WhEn ApC STAKEhoLDERS mEET in BEnin...
L-R: Former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Mr. Phillip Shaibu; Leader, House of Representatives, Hon. Julius Ihonvbere; President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio; and former Governor of Delta State, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, at the just concluded South-South All Progressives Congress (APC) Stakeholders Meeting in Benin, Edo State, over the weekend
TUESDAY
abati1990@gmail.com
WITH REUBEN ABATI
Trump, Musk and The Nigerian Gladiators
“Bros, looks like one accidented trailer has just passed between Trump and Elon Musk oh, and it gets messier by the day.”
“What do you expect? It is just simple common sense. Elon Musk invested over $290 million to bring Trump to power. He supported him, campaigned with him. Then he got rewarded with the high-profile job of the man to fix Government Efficiency. Trump even supported Tesla when the company was losing sales and failing, up to 19% in the year 2025 alone. But what you have just seen is that even among thieves, there are boundaries”.
“What I hear is that there is honour among thieves?”
“So which thieves are we talking about and how?”
“Both of them are pursuing their own interests. When interests clash, friendship ends. Trump wants America First. He has told everyone that he has to defend the mega spending and tax cut bill, which he has now signed into law, because he promised the American electorate that he would do so. And now he has done so, even if he had to blackmail both Senate and the House of Representatives to get it through by a very narrow margin.”
“Very narrow margin indeed. 50 to 51 in the Senate with Vice President J D. Vance having to break the tie. In the House of Representatives, Hakeem Jeffries, the House Minority Leader spoke for 8 hours, 45 minutes to oppose the bill. The House may have voted 218 – 214 eventually but this must be one of the most controversial pieces of legislation since Trump’s second return.”
“So, what is Elon Musk now saying? He wants to commit suicide?”
“No, he wants to protect American democracy and the people’s freedom. He has announced the formation of a new political party: the American Party, to challenge the Democrats and the Republicans in just two or three Senate districts and 8 to 10 House districts, and he will have legislative discussions with the Democrats and the Republicans. He had already said that he will deal with any lawmaker who supports the Bill to ensure that such a person does not return to Congress.”
“In his capacity as what?”
“He is CEO of Tesla, SpaceX, and X, and the richest man in the world. He has money. And in this world, money rules everything. It dictates how politics is played, how the economy is run. It is the same all over the world. Look at Nigeria. In this country, the rich are the ones who have opinion. When the politicians are looking for positions, they go to the rich to beg for money. When they get into office, the rich Nigerians dictate the direction of government. Whether in Nigeria or elsewhere, the rich people dictate policy. They run government.”
“Not in America though. It depends on who is in power. Trump has just told Elon Musk to get off his back and get lost. He says Musk is completely off the rails, practically becoming a Train Wreck in the past few weeks, and that he, Trump will not go back on the decision to terminate Electronic Vehicle Tax Credits. That is precisely what Elon Musk does not want, but it is now a matter of law.”
“But Musk’s father has said that these are two good friends behaving like children and that they will soon reconcile.”
“I don’t think Errol Musk knows what he is talking about. Trump has made it clear that if Elon Musk is not careful, he will be de-naturalized and deported back to
South Africa where he originally comes from. I find it interesting though that both men are fighting with their big egos. It is an eye-opener in terms of the intersection between economic power and political power. Business CEOs are always hanging around the corridors of power, in expectation of returns. As it is in America, so it is elsewhere. In India, one of the big problems is crony capitalism. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s friends are the ones in the charge of the commanding heights of the Indian economy. This is the exact story of the Adani Group, and the Reliance Group. When it is election time, the business people give money to the politicians. When victory is won, they move in and ask for returns. This is precisely what they do also here in Nigeria. Do you think these your billionaires are smart? No, they make money off the state. They are rent-collectors”
“The people. The people.”
“Who is talking about the people?”
“Trump. He says America First.”
“Don’t believe everything that you read. Trump says he is doing this for the Americans too. Which Americans? The Democrats and even members of his party argue that he is robbing the poor: Affordable Medicare, food stamp benefits, student loans, State And Local Tax (SALT) and Obama Care, to give better advantages to the rich in form of tax cuts even on tips, pensions and benefits. He wants to increase defence and immigration spending. The Latinos, Hispanics and Blacks who voted for Trump must be regretting the day they did so. Trump’s America is against them.”
“But Elon Musk is not interested in the poor either. He just wants to sell business, and make money for himself and his company.’
“This is not a fair world. It is one big game arena where the strongest survive and the weak perish”
“It is good however that some persons and groups can still summon the courage to stand up and speak the alternative to power. Take BRICS. They have just met in Rio de Janeiro, and their statement is very clear. They say that unjustified unilateral protectionist measures including the indiscriminate increase of reciprocal tariffs is inconsistent with World Trade Organisation (WTO) rules. We all know who that statement is meant for.”
“Yes. We know. And the target has spoken. He is Donald Trump, the United States President. He has warned that any country that supports the conspiracy of the BRICS countries against the United States will be slammed with an additional 10% of reciprocal tariffs.”
“Hey. Hey. The BRICS group is not Elon Musk. It is a formidable group which provides an alternative within the global order. A major part of the BRICS resolution in Rio de Janeiro was a tacit expression of support for Iran. Iran is one of the original 10 member-countries in BRICS.”
“But Trump has spoken. I hear our President was there, as a partner country in BRICS.”
“Yes. Yes. President Tinubu was in Rio to stand for Nigeria as a partner-country. We became a partner of BRICS in 2024. It is very good optics that our President was there.”
“Tinubu went to Brazil from St. Lucia. Men!, this guy is having fun. He jus dey catch cruise. As long as he doesn’t go and sign anything that will get us into trouble. We are a low middle income country, even behind Libya and Gabon, in terms of Gross National Income, GNI per capita That is what the World Bank tells us. Our President must worry more about productivity and how to increase revenue back home.”
“Tinubu knows what he is doing. He is looking for investments. He is not looking for trouble. Nigeria is partnering with Brazil in the area of agriculture. Tinubu is too smart to go and look for Trump’s trouble.”
“I just don’t want a situation where Trump will look at our President and call him, Mr. Nigeria.”
“What is wrong with that? President Tinubu is Mr. Nigeria, of course.”
“You don’t get the joke?”
“What joke?”
“Some people are beginning to say that old age is beginning to catch up with President Trump. The other day, he referred to the Prime Minister of Japan as Mr. Japan. The same way he called Tim Cook, the CEO of Apple, Tim Apple. “
“Look, leave Trump alone. Let Americans deal with the difference between what they voted for and what they got in return. Let us wait and see what happens in the US midterm elections. And I am more concerned about what happens when President Tinubu returns to the country. He would have to come and deal with the crisis of coalition politics that is threatening to upturn his electoral chances.”
“What do you mean upturn? I disagree. Whether they call themselves ADC oh, or whatever oh, I do not see any opposition uprooting President Tinubu and the APC from power in 2027.”
“These coalition politicians seem to mean business. The day they unveiled the ADC as their chosen platform, Abuja was at a standstill. They locked them out of one hotel. They moved to the Yar’Adua Centre. The Presidency has abused them, calling them names, threatening them.”
“Wait till Jagaban returns. Their Master will soon return. Who is there? Atiku, who is our regular customer? Or Aregbesola, who is biting the finger that fed him? Or Peter Obi? As for that one, Wike has given him a sucker punch. He told him that his time has passed, and he must stop dreaming. Anybody that lifts his or her head, they will get beaten.”
“Wike. Who is that compared to Peter Obi? We are discussing serious politics, you are turning this thing into a comedy. Wike who says his father is a manager
of many companies and who went to church for a Thanksgiving burlesque, and he goes to church only to abuse everybody?”
“Please, is there anything personal between you and Wike? How did you just suddenly turn this into a talk about Nyesom Wike, the FCT Minister. Is something paining you?”
“Nothing. I just felt it was odd for a Minister to make himself the story all the time, and as he does, he constantly upstages the President.”
“The President is not complaining. It is convenient for the President to have a Wike in the PDP, while identifying with the APC, and working against the PDP from within. Every monarch needs a jester”
“Precisely why other PDP politicians now say they are still in the PDP, but they are also working with the ADC, 100%. Nigerians have a special way of making the abnormal look very normal. Chief Dele Momodu says nobody has a monopoly of madness.”
“Your Chief Momodu who went to Wike’s house, they gave him food and he enjoyed the soup so much, Wike noticed that his mouth was leaking.”
“What kind of man talks like that? So, a guest eats at your place and that becomes a national issue? Peter Obi will never talk like that. Waziri Adamawa will never talk like that. I think President Tinubu should worry about the character of the persons who claim that they are defending his interest. Most of his supporters and spokespersons actually end up embarrassing him”
“President Tinubu will also never talk like that. But when he returns, let him talk about things that will move this country forward. I think it is more embarrassing that the politics of 2027 is what Nigerians are focusing on at the moment instead of urgent issues of governance. The conflict among politicians is pushing governance into a cul de sac.”
“It has been a really sad week though”
“I know. I know. Peter Rufai, Super Eagles goalkeeper died. Diogo Jota, the young, elite Portuguese player and Liverpool star also died along with his brother, Andre Silva in a vehicle accident.”
“Sad. Sad. Dodo Mayana. Apina. And then Diogo Jota and his brother. Why do good people die so early, and the world is left with the problematic ones?”
“The ways of God are mysterious. It is even more painful that 82 people died in Texas. Many more are missing. Rain fell and the Guadalupe River rose by about eight metres, overflowed its banks, causing floods. Persons died at the Camp Mystic while sleeping and across all the counties: Kerr County, Kendall, Tom Green and Williamson County. Horrific. Catastrophic. Those who fight so much to cling to life should remember the uncertainty of all things natural.”
“The Olubadan died too. The 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland. Oba Owolabi Olakulehin. He was 90. Our condolences to the people of Eba Odan.”
“Hmm. So who do you think is the next Olubadan? T’o lubadan ba ku, ta ni o joye. Remember that song?”
“The Ibadan people have an established succession tradition between the Balogun line and the Otun line, based on seniority. The next Olubadan will come from the Otun line.’
“I hear that it is the Governor of Oyo State that will decide.”
“No. He can only play a ceremonial role. He cannot and he will dare not tamper with the people’s tradition in Ibadan.”
