WEDNESDAY 14TH MAY 2025

Unveiling of lagos state as the host City of afRiMa awaRds 2025... L-R: Matlou Tsotetsi, Director, Brand Communications and Sponsorship, AFRIMA; Mike Dada, President/Executive Producer, AFRIMA; Janatte Haddadi, Regional Director, Northern Africa; Angela Martins, Director, Social Development, Culture & Sport, African Union Commission (AUC); Mike Strano, Regional Director, Eastern Africa, AFRIMA and Melena Abraham, Ethiopian’s Media Personality during the AU’s Unveiling of

2025 Calendar of Activities and Official Unveiling of Lagos State as the Host City of AFRIMA Awards 2025 at the AU Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on Tuesday, May 13, 2025

At CITN Conference, Tinubu Tips Taxation as Key to Fiscal Resilience, Inclusiveness

Shettima: States have paid 32% global debts they owed, now in good fiscal condition amid reforms

Mutfwang: We must create enabling environment for businesses before taxing them Sanwo-olu seeks diligent implementation of tax reform bills awaiting president’s assent

President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, declared that taxation was key in the efforts to reposition the country’s fiscal architecture for resilience, inclusiveness, and growth.

Tinubu spoke in Abuja at the opening of the 27th Annual Tax Conference, organised by Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN).

The conference had the theme,

“Taxation for Development: Policies, Law and Implementation.”

Tinubu said a robust, transparent, and fair tax system was essential for financing government operations, and creating the environment for accountability, stability, and long-term development.

Speaking at the conference, also,

Vice President Kashim Shettima said following key reforms initiated by the Tinubu administration, state

governments were currently in good fiscal position, having repaid 32 per cent of the global debt they owed.

Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, called for diligent implementation of the four tax reform bills recently passed by the National Assembly, when assented to by the president.

Represented by Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, Tinubu said the government had

taken deliberate steps to restructure and modernise tax administration and the legal framework, leading to the establishment of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, which marked a significant turning point.

He said the presidential tax committee was tasked with simplifying the tax system, broadening the tax base, curbing leakages, and ensuring alignment between fiscal policy and

Shettima to Islamic Devt Bank: Now is Time to Invest in Nigeria

deji elumoye in Abuja

Vice President Kashim Shettima has declared that now is currently a great time to invest in Nigeria, saying the administration of President Bola Tinubu has addressed most of the grey areas that hitherto served as disincentives to investors.

According to him, the foundation laid by the Renewed Hope administration through critical reforms in key sectors of the economy was creating the right environment for investments in Nigeria.

The vice president stated this yesterday, when he played host to a delegation from the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) led by the Head of its Regional Hub, Mr Hammad Hundal at the State House, Abuja.

He said: “It is an exciting opportunity to invest in Nigeria.

The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has created the enabling environment and is still doing so by addressing most of the grey areas that hitherto served as a disincentive. So, this is a great time to invest in Nigeria.”

Shettima pointed out that with well-thought-out interventions in human capital development, nutrition, agriculture, health, education and promotion of digital trade, the administration has demonstrated commitment in addressing challenges in the critical sectors.

“This administration is poised to address the challenges that we have in key areas of human capital

development, financial inclusion, infrastructure, and nutrition. In fact, we have no option but to address most of these issues, and we will continue to act in the right direction,” he maintained.

The vice president applauded Nigeria’s partnership with the Islamic Development Bank, noting that both entities are based primarily on the country’s national interest.

He urged IsDB to continue on the path already laid through its support for key government programmes such as the Special Agro-Processing Zones (SAPZ) programme, the i-DICE project and other initiatives, including the development of a Halal economy in the country.

“Let us cross-pollinate ideas and

UNICEF Partners Unizik to Launch Institute of Social Policy, Promises More Research Institutes

david-Chyddy eleke in Awka

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in partnership with Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, in Anambra State, has launched the Institute of Social Policy. During the launch, UNICEF stated the initiative is to enhance research, generate evidence, formulate policies, and develop human capacity among individuals and government institutions across federal, state, and local levels in Nigeria.

UNICEF Country representative, Ms. Cristian Munduate, who was at

the launch said with technical and financial support from UNICEF, the Social Policy Programme has been collaboratively developed to address significant knowledge and capacity gaps that were identified through a strategic partnership established in 2018.

She said more of such institutions would be established in various institutions.

She said: “The initiative aligns with UNICEF’s commitment to strengthening the government frameworks and empowering stakeholders to promote child rights and sustainable development.

“This initiative marks a critical step towards building a robust group of professionals who will drive evidence-based policy planning and implementation in Nigeria.

“Through our partnership with academic institutions, we are establishing a foundation for sustainable social development that emphasises the rights of children and women.”

She revealed the Institute offers postgraduate degrees, including a Post Graduate Diploma (PGD), Master’s in Social Policy (MSP), Master of Science (MSc), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Social Policy.

come up with a design for your Country Engagement Framework (CEF).

“I want you to record in your Country Engagement Framework, the development of a Halal economy, promotion of digital trade, financial inclusion, and other areas. I urge closer collaboration to enable us to address some of these challenges.”

Shettima further noted that the bank’s programmes in Nigeria aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu across different sectors.

national development objectives.

The president said his administration was committed to building a system where every taxpayer, whether an individual or corporate entity, could transact efficiently, transparently, and with confidence in the system’s integrity.

He said while these reforms were not without challenges, the government recognised that the “change of this magnitude requires extensive stakeholder engagement, capacity building, and sustained political will”.

He added that collaboration was critical to success.

Tinubu said government was leveraging technology and data analytics to enhance tax compliance and improve service delivery. He stressed that digitisation of tax processes was already yielding positive results.

The president said the support of institutions, like CITN, will be indispensable in building a tax system that supported enterprise, reduced poverty, and delivered on national development agenda.

He said the conference presented an opportunity for stakeholders to explore how policies and laws could be translated into practical and measurable outcomes.

Tinubu said as tax professionals and policy makers, CITN was a custodian of Nigeria’s tax future.

He urged the institute to leverage the platform to engage meaningfully, challenge assumptions, and craft pathways

that will strengthen the tax institutions, boost revenue, and ultimately improve the lives of Nigerians.

While commending the leadership of CITN for organising the conference, Tinubu expressed confidence that the ideas and partnerships from the event will contribute significantly to deepening tax reform and development in the country.

Shettima was represented at the conference by Special Adviser to the President on Economic Affairs in the Office of the Vice President, Dr. Tope Fashua.

The vice president stated, “The critical reforms of Mr President even extends to the matter of local government autonomy, and the earlier mentioned reforms led to a situation where our subnational governments are now awash with liquidity.

“Our states have paid down in just one year, 32 per cent of their global debts. Many of our states have doubled and tripled their internally generated revenues in the same space of time.

“Hardly does any of our states borrow for now, but with a repositioning of their balance sheets, we see an opportunity for states to leverage their good standing and combining their current liquidity, we hope to see an explosion of local and rural infrastructure all over Nigeria.” Shettima added, “We also hope to see immediate reduction in poverty across rural Nigeria, contrary to projections from some quarters.

The Senate yesterday urged the federal government to ensure the inclusion of the 774 local government councils in the country in the meetings of the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC).

The Red Chamber said doing so would guarantee their direct involvement in the revenue-sharing process among the three tiers of government, arguing that the move was necessary for the full implementation of the July 2024 Supreme Court’s judgment.

The apex court had ordered that local government funds should be released directly to the third tier of government without any interference by the respective states.

The Senate resolutions followed a motion sponsored to that effect by the Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibrin Barau. The Kano North senator recommended that each state and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) should appoint a representative each from the local councils to FAAC in order to protect the grassroots interests. Barau’s lead debate on the motion was titled: “Urgent Need to Alter the Composition of Federation Account Allocations Committee (FAAC) by Including Representatives of Local Governments and Area Councils.”

The Senate in adopting and passing the motion, therefore directed that the resolution be forwarded to the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister

of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, who also serves as the FAAC Chairman, for appropriate action. Barau’s motion emphasised that the Supreme Court judgment had effectively invalidated existing arrangements where local government funds were funneled through state joint accounts. Barau said: “By virtue of the apex court’s judgment delivered in July 2024, funds are now to be released directly to local governments.”

He further argued that the judgment had rendered obsolete “every earlier existing structure such as the payment of local government funds through the state joint account,” stressing the need for the local councils to have representation at FAAC.

AFRIMA

sunday aborisade in Abuja

James emejo in Abuja

Tuggar: Nigeria-China Relationship More Pragmatic Than Others

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, yesterday, described the Nigeria-China relationship as the most pragmatic for the country, better than most other foreign relationships currently.

The Minister disclosed this at a one-day dialogue on the way forward due to the current tariffs war by the United States of America (USA),

The dialogue was organised by the Centre for Chinese Studies in Abuja, with the theme: “Maintaining Resilience and Seeking Opportunities in Nigeria-China Cooperation, amidst International Trade Disruptions and Tariff Wars.”

The Minister, who was represented by Amb. Mohammed Haidara said though the NigeriaChina relationship was a later one, it has come with a lot of benefits.

He said: “I must say, for Nigeria, our relationship with China is maybe a latter-day relation in comparison to our interaction with Europe or the Western world.

“Our relations with China has been more pragmatic than relations with the rest. Chinese are very engaging.”

Speaking further he said, “the trade disruptions occasioned by

the tariff regime instituted by the United States might perhaps even give us another opportunity, perhaps a greater opportunity for Nigeria; indeed, Africa, to trade more with China, which we all know is a formidable force in the trade and economic era in the world.”

He also noted that the Nigerian government would soon come up with its response to the USA trade tariffs.

“Let me also say that the Nigerian government, through inter-agency efforts, is also trying to articulate and make a position, a common position, on how to respond within the 90-day window that we’ve been given.

“But what I can assure you is that ours is not going to be confrontational. We’re going to be as constructive as possible while responding to these measures.”

The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, said China and its partners must work together to survive this trade war.

Speaking through a Chinese Diplomat, Hairong Dong, Yu said: “This tariff levied by the U.S. government has impacted all its trading partners throughout the world, and also China and of course, Nigeria.

“We need to work together to

sail through these turbulent and torrential waters. And as we all know that China and Nigeria have been very close partners, especially in trade. We are key partners.

“Our trade volume is reaching $22 billion. And it’s among the highest in African countries.

And we value our cooperation and coordination with Nigeria.

“We’re very eager to hear your insights from the business world, from the government, and from the academics, and also from the media, from all the communities in Nigeria to share your insights and your

LASG: Nigeria With

Segun James

The Lagos State Government has revealed that Nigeria has a deficit of over 22 million housing units nationwide, with the state accounting for the majority.

As part of efforts to stem this, the state government has delivered over 9,970 home units in the last six years and is on the drive to deliver 14, 022 affordable home units to residents by 2027.

The State Commissioner for the Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, disclosed this yesterday at the on-going ministerial press briefing, marking the second year of second term of Governor Babajide

in Unpaid Oil Royalties

Wale igbintade

The federal government has reignited its legal battle against Pan Ocean Oil Corporation (Nigeria) Limited over the alleged non-payment of $49,936,088.31 in oil and gas royalties, concession rentals, and gas flaring penalties.

views, to exchange views and your opinions, especially your advice to us on how to move forward, to build a strong relationship, and also to advance our mutually beneficial cooperation in the years ahead.”

The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Prof. Nentawe Yiwatda,

22m

Sanwo-Olu, held at Alausa, Ikeja.

According to him, the SanwoOlu administration, as part of its strategic policy on housing has developed a sustainable economic, social, institutional and technical solutions to increasing the housing stock by targeting the low-income strata and changing the narratives positively.

Akinderu-Fatai said: “In specific terms, Lagos State Government under Sanwo-Olu has implemented a range of laudable initiatives aimed at tackling the affordable housing challenge in Lagos State.

“The multi-front strategy approach allows the State government to provide budgetary allocation for the construction of housing units targeted to addressing the accommodation needs of the low-income segment across the state.

“The state also provided conducive business environment for real estate developers through

who spoke through her Special Assistant, Paul Dawnson, said, “China, Nigeria has a long history. They used to say, China says what it means, and China means what it says. So the relationship between Nigeria and China has been a relationship of trust.”

Housing Deficit

the promotion of Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) in affordable housing delivery.

“The partners are encouraged with streamlined approval processes, tax incentives, consideration of innovative financing models for both the supply and demand sector of affordable housing, implementation of supportive policies and regulations to further strengthen the drive for the provision of affordable housing for low and medium class segment in Lagos State amongst others.

“These strategies have proven over time that continual and consistent increase in low-income homes improves affordability.

“Over the years in Lagos State, the stock of decent homes has increased, quality of life has been enhanced, employment opportunities have been generated and the economy has been greatly revitalized.

On the provision of Aggie housing units, the commissioner continued, “The administration in June 2024 delivered and commissioned the Egan-Igando Mixed Housing Estate (Cluster 1) comprising of 270 units of two-bedroom apartments.

“This increased the number of housing estates so far delivered across the 5 (five) administrative divisions of Lagos State by Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s administration to 21 since 2019.

“The effort of the ministry in providing affordable homes through direct budgetary funding has yielded 3,994 units of one, two and three-bedroom homes while Public Private Partnership (PPP) across the housing sector provided additional 5,976 homes for allottees.

“Therefore, this administration has increased the state housing stock with a total of 9,970 home units in the last six years.

The plaintiffs in the suit are the Minister of Petroleum Resources, the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, and the Federal Government of Nigeria. In an amended statement of claim filed before the Federal High Court in Lagos by Akin Akintoye, SAN, the government alleged that Pan Ocean, while operating Oil Mining Lease (OML) 98 under a joint venture with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), failed to meet its statutory obligations under the Petroleum Act. These obligations include the payment of royalties, concession rentals, and gas flare penalties.

stated that Pan Ocean’s continued non-compliance prompted the Minister of Petroleum to revoke OML 98.

The plaintiffs argued that the unpaid royalties deprive the government of vital revenue needed for national development.

Despite several demands and Pan Ocean’s written acknowledgment of the debt in a letter dated January 24, 2019, the government claimed the company has refused to pay the outstanding amount. In the suit before Justice Daniel Osiagor, the government further

They emphasised that the case was not about asset ownership or crude oil sales, but about mandatory statutory payments required from all leaseholders.

The government is seeking a declaration confirming Pan Ocean’s liability and an order compelling the company to pay $49,936,088.31 as of March 24, 2019.

adedayo akinwale in Abuja

The House of Representatives has called on the federal government to intervene and ensure the reversal of the blockade by the government of Republic of Benin for free movement of people, goods and services.

The resolution of the House followed the adoption of a motion moved at the plenary on Tuesday by Hon. Mohammed Bio. Moving the motion, the lawmaker said there are several border communities in Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State, one of which

is Tabera, sharing boundary with Tandu Community in Parakou, Republic of Benin.

Bio explained the proximity of Nigeria through Baruten to the Republic of Benin has opened up bilateral relationships between the two countries in the area of movement of people, goods and services.

He added that Tabera-Tandu Road serves as the easiest road and sole agricultural trade route linking Okuta District in Nigeria with Parakou Province in the Republic of Benin. The lawmaker recalled that on the

6th May, Beninese Security Personnel in joint operation with the Ministry of Agriculture and Commerce on the order of the President of Republic of Benin effected a pre-dawn blockade of Tabera-Tandu Road with heavy stones, barring movement of people, goods and services between Nigeria and Republic of Benin.

Bio argued that this presidential directive of blockade has disrupted movement of people, seasonal cashew and soya beans trade that are critical to rural livelihood of people in the border communities of the two countries.

L-R: Chairman, Mamuda Beverages Company, Mr. Hassan Hammoud and the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, during a courtesy call on the governor at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, on Tuesday.

INAUGURAL NATIONAL

DIALOGUE ON THE LEGISLATIVE AGENDA OF THE 10TH HOUSE...

L-R: Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abass; Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu; House Majority Leader, Hon. Julius Ihonvbere; and Executive Secretary, National Assembly Library Trust Fund, Hon. Henry Nwawuba, at the inaugural National Policy Dialogue on the Legislative Agenda of the 10th House of Representatives organised by the House leadership in Abuja on Monday

Okonjo-Iweala Seeks Japan’s Cooperation to Reform WTO, Says Global Free Trade in Crisis

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

Director-General of World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has stated that global free trade is in crisis.

Okonjo-Iweala solicited the support of Japan to maintain, strengthen, and reform the organisation.

She spoke while meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Shigaru Ishiba and other senior Japanese

government officials in Tokyo.

Okonjo-Iweala told Ishiba that she had high expectations for Japan as a champion of open markets, as United States President Donald Trump disrupted world commerce

with his fast-changing tariffs and other policies.

She said, “Trade is facing very challenging times right now and it is quite difficult. We should try to use this crisis as an opportunity

Tinubu to Induct New Augusta 109S Trekker Helicopters into NAF Order of Battle

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) yesterday stated that President Bola Tinubu will on Friday, May 16, induct the newly acquired Augusta 109S Trekker Helicopters into the Order of Battle (ORBAT) of NAF at the 011 Presidential Air Fleet wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

NAF also revealed that it will be commissioning Quick Impact Projects across NAF operational theatres, one of which was a clinic that had been constructed in Rukubi Community in Doma Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, where some civilians lost their lives in January 2023 due to an unfortunate airstrike.

Speaking during a press conference at NAF Headquarters in Abuja to officially kick-start the anniversary, Chairman of the Organising Committee for NAF’s 61st Anniversary Celebration, Air Commodore Sylvester Eyoma,

revealed that the service will be expecting over 30 air forces, 12 Chiefs of Air Staff, and 45 exhibitors, including major defence and aerospace players, like Airbus, Embraer, Diamond Aircraft, HAVELSAN, Jet Aviation, Starlite Aviation Group, Proforce, and Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria.

These were billed to participate in the Fourth African Air Forces Forum scheduled to hold in Lagos as part of activities to celebrate NAF at 61.

According to Eyoma, “On Friday, 16 May 2025, there will be an induction ceremony for the Augusta 109S Trekker Helicopters at the 011 Presidential Air Fleet.

“The President and Commanderin-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is expected to grace the occasion as the Special Guest of Honour. We are also expecting over 2,000 participants at the Conference and Exhibitions scheduled for 22 and 23 May 2025 in Lagos.”

Outlining other activities lined

up to commemorate the 61st anniversary celebration, the chairman of the organizing committee said, “On Saturday, 17 May 2025, medical outreaches will be held across our six field commands, while there will be a Research and Development Competition and Exhibition.

“The venue of the R&D Competition is the Multipurpose Sports Centre at the NAF Base Asokoro. The high point of the R&D would be the signing of an MoU with Lagos State University for a joint committee that would conceptualize, develop, and operationalize R&D projects for the benefit of both parties.

“Another MoU on technology acquisition and development would also be signed with the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI).

“On Sunday, 18 May 2025, interdenominational church services will be held across NAF units, while an international Colloquium on Development of Space Technology in the NAF will be held on Monday,

$50m Beverages Company to Berth in Ogun

Mamuda Group Nigeria Limited, is set to invest $50 million in Ogun State through one of its subsidiaries, Mamuda Beverages.

Mamuda is involved in food, beverages, care, and agro-processing.

The Chairman of the Group Mr. Hassan Hammoud, made this known when he led high ranking officials of the company to meet the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun in his office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta on Tuesday.

He disclosed that the governor would lay the first foundation stone for Mamuda Beverages next month.

The Chairman also said that Mamuda Group would be setting up its investment in stages, adding that other areas of interest for the company, like foods, care, and agro-agro-processing would also be established in the state.

“Mamuda Group is based in Kano. We have different types of factories. We have Mamuda Industries, which

is the leather factory for export to Europe and everywhere in the world.

“We have Mamuda Agro, which produces agricultural sacks. We also have Mamuda Foods, which is the confectionery business, and we have Mamuda Beverages, which is the CSD business.

“We also have Mamuda Care, which focuses on detergents and beauty care. Mamuda Group has 13,000 workers.

“So, if we have 13,000 workers in Kano, we should have the same number of staff here too in the next five to six years,” he said. He also disclosed that Mamuda Group would employ about 1,500 workers initially, stating that the number of its workforce would expand to 3,000 after the expansion of the beverage company is completed.

While commending Governor Abiodun for making the business environment in the state attractive to investors, Mr. Hammoud said that Ogun State is the best destination for

businesses to thrive in the country.

“His Excellency has made the environment very attractive that you wouldn’t want to miss out.

“We believe that if you don’t come here, you will be missing out. The market is huge; you have Lagos on one side, and you have Ibadan-Benin, so if we need to cover the South West region, we have to invest here, and it would be very good for us and very competitive for us to produce here,” he said.

In his remarks, Governor Abiodun noted that his administration is working hard at all times to ensure the state increases its ranking on the global ease of doing business index.

The governor added that his administration has just built the best-equipped airport in the country, which sits in an industrial zone. He noted that out of the six industrial zones licensed, that of Ogun State is the only one that has hit the ground running.

19 May 2025.

“The high point of the Colloquium will be the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Space Development between the NAF and the Space Development Centre, University of Bradford in the United Kingdom.

“The high points of the NAF 61st Anniversary will be the NAF Anniversary Seminar and the NAF Reunion Dinner, both of which will be held on Tuesday, 20 May 2025.”

He stated that in over 61 years of its existence, NAF had undergone significant transformation in its organisation, manning, and equipment holding.

Eyoma said the transformation had tremendously bolstered the capacity of the service to effectively deliver on its constitutional mandate.

to solve the challenges we have and take advantage of new trends in trade.”

According to her, Japan, as “a champion of the multilateral trading system”, must help maintain, strengthen and reform the WTO.

Okonjo-Iweala and Ishiba made a joint call, during the meeting, for strengthening of the multilateral trading system and advancing meaningful reform of the WTO.

They also called for the strengthening of the global trading system.

According to a joint statement issued after the meeting, “The director-general discussed with the prime minister and other key ministers the growing pressures facing the multilateral trading system, including rising trade tensions and risks of fragmentation.

“They shared the view that, in a time of uncertainty and disruption, the value of the multilateral trading system is unquestionable.

“They reiterated their shared commitment to working closely together, along with other WTO members, to manage current and future tensions in global trade, to strengthen the multilateral trading system, and to advance meaningful reform of the WTO.”

Okonjo-Iweala’s meeting with Ishiba came a day after the United States and China said they had agreed to slash recent sky-high

tariffs for 90 days to allow time for negotiations. Japan is among many countries yet to reach a deal with the Trump administration on hikes to US tariffs, in particular, on autos, steel, and aluminium.

WTO played a pivotal role in past decades as the US and other major economies championed trade liberalisation. This facilitated the growth of global supply chains, many of which were anchored in China.

By dismantling many protectionist barriers to trade, it had aided the ascent of Japan and China, and many other countries, as export manufacturing hubs.

Since taking office for a second time, Trump has prioritised higher tariffs to try to reduce US imports. He also prioritised compelling companies to locate factories in the United States, and doubled down on a trade war that he had launched during his first term.

During her visit to Japan, OkonjoIweala and Ishiba agreed that WTO member countries should unite to restore the organisation’s capacity to address challenges. Her visit to the Asian nation was aimed at strengthening cooperation between Japan and WTO to maintain and reinforce the multilateral trading system, Japanese officials said.

Suspended Senator Natasha AkpotiUduaghan will on June 27 know if she would continue on her six-month suspension from the Senate, for allegedly violating the senate rules.

This is following the adjournment for judgment in the suit she filed against the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio and three others, challenging the decision of her colleagues.

While the Kogi senator is the sole plaintiff in the suit, the Clerk of the National Assembly, the Senate, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio and the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, Senator Nedamwen Imasuen are 1st to 4th respondents, respectively.

The senate had on March 5, suspended the senator representing Kogi Central District at the National Assembly for six months, for allegedly breaching the rules of the senate, after she refused to relocate to the new seat allocated to her in

the red chamber.

Besides her refusal to vacate her former seat for the new allottee, the senator had engaged in argument with the Senate President, as well as laying allegations of sexual harassment against Akpabio.

Displeased with the decision of the leadership of the upper house, Akpoti-Uduaghan had approached the court to declare her suspension as unlawful and illegal.

Besides, she brought an application seeking the committal of Akpabio to jail for violating an order of the court issued on March 4, restraining the leadership of the senate from taking any action against her until the hearing of the substantive suit.

At Tuesday’s proceedings, all parties adopted their written addresses as their arguments for and against the suit.

In his final submission AkpotiUduaghan’s lawyer, Michael Numan, SAN, urged the court to grant his client’s relief by reversing the Senate Committee’s decision.

He also countered allegations of contempt of court.

Meanwhile, the respondents challenged the jurisdiction of the court to hear the matter. They further urged the Court to dismiss the case instituted by the suspended Kogi Central Senator, for being incompetent and lacking in merit.

After taking arguments from all parties in the matter, Justice Binta Nyako announced that judgment had been fixed for June 27. The judge held that her verdict will be delivered alongside two applications bordering on disobedience of the orders of the court by parties.

While the Clerk of the National Assembly and Akpabio who are both 1st and 3rd respondents respectively, had accused Akpoti-Uduaghan of disobeying the orders of the court which had barred parties from speaking with the media, the suspended senator argued that the respondents violated the March 4, orders of the court, when they went ahead to suspend her for six months.

Alex Enumah in Abuja

Linus Aleke in Abuja

PAnEL SESSion TiTLED ‘From FAcTory To PorT’...

L-R:

Managing

Abidjan on Monday

Hajji 2025: NAHCON Vows to Sanction

Erring Service Providers in Saudi Arabia

1,285 pilgrims airlifted to Mecca from Minna Okpebholo urges Edo pilgrims to be peaceful, law-abiding, reflect state’s values

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin, Laleye Dipo in Minna and Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

National Hajji Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has vowed to wield the big stick against erring service providers in the ongoing 2025 Haji operation in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

NAHCON had airlifted 9,691 out of 60,000 pilgrims, as at Monday, that would participate in this year’s hajji exercise in Saudi Arabia.

At least 1,285 Muslims had been airlifted to Mecca from the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport, in Minna, Niger State since the exercise started four days ago. A total of 2,885 Muslims were expected to be flown to Mecca for this year’s Hajj from the state.

In Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo urged the 206 pilgrims from the state who will be leaving for the holy land on May 14, to be peaceful, disciplined, law-abiding, and carry with them Edo’s values that made the people stand out among their equals.

Okpebholo gave the charge at the Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board in Benin City while addressing the intending pilgrims.

The contingent, made up of 206 persons from the state, will be airlifted to Mecca on May 14. Meanwhile, NAHCON Deputy Makkah Coordinator, Alhaji Alidu Shutti, stated the commission’s tough stance in a chat with THISDAY in Ilorin on Tuesday on the side-lines

of a meeting with service providers for the intending pilgrims from the country.

Shutti said NAHCON had made available necessary provisions to the service providers so as to provide quality service to the pilgrims.

He stated that the commission will not accept services, which fell short of international best practices.

He stressed that the pilgrims from the country deserved best quality service, and said it will not condone any low-quality service that might likely hinder the 2025 hajji exercise in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Shutti said the service providers must justify the payment made by the pilgrims.

A representative of the service providers, Alhaji Abdul Qadir, assured NAHCON of their commitment to make the stay of the guests of Allah in the kingdom memorable and worthwhile.

Qadir, who spoke on behalf of the service providers, stated that they were prepared for the receipt of pilgrims from Madina.

“We have recruited professionals and experienced staff to serve Nigerians in Makkah,” Qadir stressed.

Executive Secretary of the State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Niger State, Sheikh Mohammed Awwal Aliyu, confirmed the airlift of the pilgrims. Aliyu said it was being facilitated by Umza Aviation Services, a private airline.

He said, so far, the exercise had gone smoothly and could be completed according to schedule

this weekend.

Flagging-of the airlift Governor Mohammed Bago advised the pilgrims to be good ambassadors of the state and the country while in the Holy land, reminding them that the laws of Saudi Arabia are different from those of Nigeria.

Bago equally called on the pilgrims to pray fervently for peace and progress of the state and country, at large, and for Allah’s divine intervention in bringing to an end the security challenges prevailing in some parts of the country.

Okpebholo, represented by Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor Esq., urged the intending pilgrims to carry with them the values that defined Edo people and make them stand out in all they do.

He advised them to be peaceful, disciplined, and make the state proud in Mecca, as Edo pilgrims were always exceptional in their pilgrimages to Mecca.

The governor commended the board for its historic preparations, adding that its commitment reflects a strong dedication to duty.

He stated, “As you prepare to embark on this sacred journey, I urge you to carry with you the values that define us as a people. Be peaceful and disciplined at all times. Represent our state with dignity and uphold the laws and customs of the host nation.

“Let your conduct reflect the teachings of your faith and bring honour to our land. Pray not only for yourselves and your families, but also for the peace, progress, and unity of our dear state and nation. May your pilgrimage be safe, spiritually fulfilling, and accepted.”

Chairman of the Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mallam Muhammad Musa Uduimoh, thanked the governor for his inspiring and supportive speech, adding that the governor’s logistical, financial and moral support for the 2025 Hajj has played a vital role in ensuring smooth and safe preparations for the pilgrimage. Executive Secretary of the board, Alhaji Eranga AbdulKabir MuhammadKabir, said out of the 206 intending pilgrims from Edo State, 120 were male and 86 were female.

Illegal Migration: Strengthening Labour Laws, Traffickers’ Prosecution, Others will Curb Menace, Says NiDCOM

Kuni Tyessi in

To stem the trend of illegal migration, particularly among the youth, Chair- man and Chief Executive Officer of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Dr. Abike Dabiri, said policies and legal frameworks on prosecution of traffickers of young people should be strengthened.

Dabiri said labour laws aimed at protecting migrants’ rights should be strengthened. She also recommended the engagement of Nigerians already in the diaspora as job mobility drivers between countries.

Dabiri made the suggestions yesterday in Abuja in her keynote

FG to Close Ijora-Marine Bridge in Apapa, Lagos for 21 Days from Sunday

The Federal Ministry of Works has announced a planned closure of the Ijora-Marine Bridge for 21 days, by 7am from Sunday 18th May 2025 for critical repair works.

A statement signed and issued by the Federal Controller of Works, Lagos, Engr. Olukorede Kesha, said: “The closure will be full at some sections of the bridge and partial at other sections.

“This critical project aims to improve road safety and enhance the driving experience of motorists.

“The work involves lifting the entire bridge deck to change the faulty bearings beneath amongst other repair works. This will ensure a smoother, safer roadway.”

She said the ministry has carefully worked on diversion routes and traffic

management, adding that residents and businesses within the closure zone are encouraged to plan accordingly.

On safety precautions, she said: “Appropriate signage and traffic control measures will be in place to guide drivers and pedestrians.

“We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation as we work to improve our infrastructure.”

Meanwhile, the federal government has restated its resolve to protect its critical infrastructure in Lagos.

According to Engr. Kesha who cited as example, the protection works at the Outer Marina shoreline and the Third Mainland Bridge, which she said are 30 percent and 99 percent complete, respectively. Kesha who stated this during an

inspection, led by the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Works, Akin Alabi, stated that deteriorated sheet piles along the Outer Marina shoreline necessitated the construction of a new concrete wall to prevent erosion. “The lifespan of this road (Outer Marina) has increased by more than 25 years with the new reinforcement,” she said. Kesha said the work would be completed within the remaining 22 months of the 30-month timeline, regardless of an initial delay caused by the absence of engineering drawings.

According to the Controller, the Third Mainland Bridge repairs included replacement of expansion joints, asphalt relaying, parapet repairs, guardrail installations, and new CCTV cameras monitored from a dedicated control room.

address during the Rabat Process thematic meeting centred on “Youth, Education and Innovation: Driving the Future of Migration.”

In the meeting, where Nigeria hosted 57 member countries, Dabiri stated the strengthening of regular migration pathways will enhance labour mobility and will further consolidate the efforts of the government in the sensitisation and education of the general public on the available opportunities backed by laws in the migration space.

According to her, incentives for regular migration by the government may include enabling environment for migration policies implementation, policy consistency, bilateral agreements with countries of interest, and access to funding for education.

Others include mentorship programmes, reducing bureaucratic hurdles, promoting knowledge-based empowerment for the youth, and strengthening of consistent sensitisa-

tion against irregular migration. She said doing so will further galvanise support for combating the phenomenon of irregular migration and the dangers attached to it, even though the blame might not completely be those of the illegal migrants whom might be fleeing from conflict prone regions, unemployment and hunger amongst others.

Dabiri stated, “Policies and legal frameworks on prosecution of traffickers of young people in Nigeria should be strengthened to curb the scourge of irregular migration.

“Labour laws aimed at protecting migrants’ rights should be strengthened for effective Labour mobility.”

She said a recent statistic suggested that Nigeria faced an unemployment rate of around 33 per cent among young people, while emphasising the urgent need for education to equip young people with skills that match the demands of the society.

She stated, “In today’s globalised world, education is crucial for participating in the international arena with advancement in technology, rise of knowledge economies, skills of critical thinking and problem-solving and digital literacy are very essential.”

Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Prof. Yilwatda Nentawe, revealed that recent data indicated that African youth represented a significant proportion of those migrating to Europe. Nentawe said they were usually driven by economic opportunities, access to education, and the pursuit of improved living conditions. He said dis-incentivising irregular migration, which endangered lives and undermined human rights, by promoting regular migration pathways, education and training in countries of origin, innovation transfer, and enhancing youth empowerment, and diaspora engagement was needful.

Chukwuma Rues Anambra’s Decline in Academic Performance

David-chyddy Eleke in Awka

The governorship candidate of Young Progressives Party (YPP) in Anambra State, Mr. Paul Chukwuma has bemoaned the decline in academic performance of students in the state.

Chukwuma stated this while reacting to the recent release of a state-by-state rating of National Examination Council (NECO), where Anambra which used to be acknowledged for its academic record was not among the first 10.

In a press release by the candidate which was made available to journalists in Awka, Chukwuma said his party will prioritize education once it wins the governorship seat of the state.

His release read: “Today, we have witnessed a shocking decline in some of the key indicators of development in our state. Once the leading light in education for over a decade, the current administration in Anambra State has caused this gain to wither.

“Today, Anambra State has

significantly dropped in education rating, much so that our state now comes behind Abia, Imo and Ebonyi States in terms of students’ performance.

“Our Party, the Young Progressive Party, YPP, is determined to put Anambra State on the path of sustained progress.

“It has never been this bad in over a decade. This is a promise broken into pieces. A gain now lost. For us as a people, it is a dangerous signal for our state and the future of our kids.

Abuja

Chief Africa Correspondent & Anchor, Bloomberg TV, Jennifer Zabasajja;

Director, Simandou Project, Rio Tinto, Gerard Rheinberger; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Lagos Free Zone, Adesuwa Ladoja; Chief Executive Officer, Tanger Med, Mehdi Tazi Riffi; Chief Executive Officer, Meridian Port Services Limited, Ghana, Mohamed Samara, and Managing Director, Porteo BTP Cote d’Ivoire, Gerard Kouassi, during a panel session titled “From factory to port: Why infrastructure will drive Africa’s industrial revolution” at the Africa CEO Forum in Cote d’Ivoire,

Bennett oghifo

This advertisement is published in compliance with the Rules & Regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Listing Requirements of

on the basis of Two (2) new Ordinary Shar es for every Three (3) Ordinary Shares held as at the close of business on March 5 , 2025

The Rights being offered are tradeable on the floor of the Nigerian Exchange Limited for the duration of the Rights Issue

PAYABLE IN FULL ON ACCEPTANCE

Acceptance List Opens: April 14, 2025

Acceptance List Closes: May 21, 2025

Please read the contents of the Rights Circular and if you are in any doubt about the actions to be taken, you should consult your Stockbroker, Accountant, Banker, Solicitor or any other Professional Adviser for guidance immediately COMPLETED ACCEPTANCE/RENUNCIATION FORMS TOGETHER WITH PAYMENT/EVIDENCE OF PAYMENT FOR THE FULL AMOUNT PAYABLE SHOULD BE SUBMITTED NO LATER THAN WEDNESDAY, MAY 21, 2025 TO ONLY RECEIVING AGENTS LISTED IN THE RIGHTS CIRCULAR

Provisional Allotment

Two (2) new Ordinary Shares for every Three (3) Ordinary Shares of 50 kobo each held by shareholders (“Existing Shareholders”) whose names appea red on the Register of Members and transfer books of Wema Bank PLC (the “Bank”) as at the close of business on March 5, 2025

Acceptance/Renunciation and Payment

Acceptance/renunciation of rights must be made in the official acceptance/renunciation Form s (“Form s”) and in accordance with the instructions set out on the Form s. Care must be taken to follow these instructions as applications which do not comply will be rejected. The receipt of any payment with your duly completed Form will constitute an acceptance of all or part of this allotment on the terms of the provisional allotment letter as contained in the Rights Circular, subject to the Memorandum and Articles of Association of the Bank and the clearance of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) The completed Form s must be lodged, together with payment/evidence of payment, with any of the Receiving A gents listed in the R ights C ircular not later than May 21, 2025 If payment is not received by May 21, 2025, the provisional allotment will be deemed to have been declined and will be cancelled. Where the amount payable exceeds N 10 million, payment must be made electronically (SWIFT, RTGS or NEFT transfer). Kindly consult with your bankers in this regard.

Trading in Rights

The approval of the Nigerian E xchange Limited (“the NGX”) has been obtained for trading in rights of the Bank . The rights will be tradeable between April 14, 202 5 and May 21, 2025 at the price at which the rights are quoted from time to time on the floor of the NGX If you wish to renounce your rights partially or in full, you may trade such renounced rights on the floor of the NGX between these dates. If you wish to purchase renounced rights, please contact your stockbroker who will guide you regarding payments and the procedure for purchasing the Bank’s rights. Existing Shareholders who wish to trade their rights partially or in full, may contact their stockbroker for guidance.

Rights C irculars have been sent directly to shareholders. Any shareholder who does not receive his/her R ights C ircular by April 14, 2025 is advised to contact the Registrar, Greenwich Registrars & Data Solution Limited, 274 M uritala Muhammed way, Alagomeji, Yaba, Lagos (+234 01 700 6700), any of the issuing houses, any branch of Wema Bank PLC or for viewing on the website of the b ank at www.wemabank.com

ISSUING HOUSES

LEAD ISSUING HOUSE

RC:189502

JOINT ISSUING HOUSES

RC: 312299

RC: 259260 RC: 733583

Shareholders can participate in the Rights Issue through the NGX Invest Platform which can be accessed at www.invest.ngxgroup.com

Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com

08033025611 sms only

Can Saraki-led Committee Chart the Way Forward for PDP?

Chuks okocha writes that the seven-man committee headed by former senate President, Dr Bukola saraki, set up last sunday by both serving and former governors of the People’s Democratic Party to chart the way forward for the main opposition party has an herculean task before it.

Though the Peoples Democratic Party has a standing reconciliation committee under the chairmanship of former governor of Osun State, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola and the committee is working earnestly to reconcile all aggrieved members of the party, a separate seven-man committee was on Sunday set up by the party after an extra ordinary meeting of both serving and former governors of the party.

Many had erroneously thought the new committee headed by the former Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki was another reconciliation committee.

The new committee known as The Way Forward Committee which is to find ways to move the party forward is not a reconciliation Committee but a strategic committee on the way forward for PDP.

The way forward for the PDP has become necessary because there are some contentious issues within the party that needed to be sorted out to ensure that the May 27, 2025 National Executive Committee meeting and the August, 2025 national convention of the party take place without any hitch.

There are issues in the party if not well managed by the Saraki-led committee may affect the party.

For instance, there is a ruling by a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja which barred the acting national secretary of the party, Sotonji Kodesho from assuming office in acting capacity. The court directive is yet to be vacated.

Also is the decision of the Supreme Court on the leadership crisis rocking the party. This apex court decision has been given different interpretation by party members based on which side members of the party belong.

These two positions are legal issues that should be managed with tact.

Also, there is another court ruling to the effect that the Acting national chairman of the party, Ambassador Umar Damagum should not be removed from office until another convention is held.

In their last meeting in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, the PDP governors had insisted that the deputy national

secretary should act as the national secretary pending the party’s NEC meeting on May 27.

But the issue is what if, the deputy national secretary who the Abuja court barred from being recognised by the Independent National National Commission signs the letter for the NEC meeting and convention?

The law is clear on the line of communication between political parties and INEC, as FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike said, ‘’Our constitution is clear: only the National Chairman or National Secretary can sign documents sent to INEC. If that process is muddled, every candidate we present is at risk.”

So, it was with a view to finding ways out of these contentious party issues, THISDAY was told, that informed the constitution of the Saraki-led special committee.

The way forward committee is expected to reconcile members where necessary and address any issue that could impact negatively on the upcoming NEC meeting and National Convention scheduled for May 27 and August, 2025 respectively.

Addressing newsmen after last Sunday’s meeting, Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Senator Bala Mohammed who is the governor of Bauchi state said, ‘’We are here with all the governors elected

under the party, that are still in the party and a substantial number of former PDP governors, with our leaders, the chairman of the party, and some members of the National Working Committee.

‘’We discuss some of the issues relating to our party, some existential issues, of course, that have been around in the media, within us, so that we will be able to navigate smoothly for the NEC that is scheduled to take place on the 27th of this month, and by August we will have an early convention.

‘’So many issues and reports have been made, and it is an opportunity to close ranks, and to make sure that at least there is no ill feelings, there are no qualms, there are no misgivings between the leaders of the party. Governors of the party have reached out to our colleagues who have been there before, who have more in-depth experience, and whatever suggestions or opinions they may have, will go a long way in giving an added impetus to the actualization of our NEC, and our convention that is scheduled to take place on specific days, and of course to reassure our teeming supporters that the PDP is working, the PDP is united.

‘’There are some missing gaps here and there. We set up a committee of seven, headed by the former Senate President, and of course former Governor of Kwara State, to make sure that at least quick reconciliation and reach out will be made, in such a manner that we will have a very rancour free and harmonious NEC and convention.’’

s o, it was with a view to finding ways out of these contentious party issues, THI s DAy was told, that informed the constitution of the saraki-led special committee. The way forward committee is expected to reconcile members where necessary and address any issue that could impact negatively on the upcoming n EC meeting and n ational Convention scheduled for m ay 27 and August, 2025 respectively.

On members defection from the party, he said,” Well, this is some of the manifestations in a democratic set-up like this that we have, and this is what is forcing us to come together. Rather than diminishing and weakening, it is making us stronger, and we will make sure at least those chapters where we have history, where we have structure, are not left alone. They will be able to produce next governors of the PDP by the grace of God, because we will be providing the level playing field in the next convention that is coming up.’’

Asked about some of the issues discussed at the meeting, Governor Mohammed said, ‘’I cannot tell you some of the issues that we discuss. We discussed unity. Definitely there are some ill feelings, and we are not here to hide things under the carpet. You know some of them. Some of the litigations in court, some of the misgivings between party members, and of course, we wouldn’t want to blame the APC for causing crisis, but they are likely to be the ones. We are not saying they are the ones.’’

Confirming the purpose of the meeting, former senate President Saraki wrote in his verified X handle, “I just left a meeting of the PDP Governors’ Forum, attended by its serving and former governors, at the Bauchi Governor’s Lodge. We had a fruitful deliberation on the party’s present challenges and its future.

‘’The meeting was well attended. As part of the decisions taken to chart a way forward, the meeting set up a seven-man committee charged with preparing for a rancour-free NEC meeting scheduled for May 27th and the forthcoming national convention.

‘’The committee is headed by my humble self, and I will have the pleasure of working with my brothers - Dauda Lawal, Caleb Muftiwang, and Peter Mba, governors of Zamfara, Plateau and Enugu States respectively. Other members are Senator Seriake Dickson, Senator Ibrahim Dankwambo, and forner governor of Abia State, Chief Okezie Ikpeazu.

Damagum

saraki

mohammed

10th House Legislative Agenda: Let’s Collaborate to Shape Nigeria’s Future

By Benjamin okezie Kalu

It is my honour to welcome you to this historic National Policy Dialogue on the Legislative Agenda of the House of Representatives. Today, we gather not merely as policymakers but as custodians of Nigeria’s democratic future, united by a shared vision to translate the aspirations of our people into actionable governance.

Let me begin by acknowledging the inspiring leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, whose Renewed Hope Agenda has redefined Nigeria’s developmental trajectory. His bold reforms-from fiscal restructuring to security sector overhauls-have laid a resilient foundation for prosperity. Under his stewardship, Nigeria is witnessing a paradigm shift: a nation transitioning from potential to performance, from challenges to solutions, and from despair to hope.

Under Speaker Abbas Tajudeen’s astute leadership, the House has considered over 1,059 bills since June 13, 2023, spanning every facet of national life: from foundational amendments to our Constitution to sector-specific reforms in education, health, security, and the economy.

Our eight-pillar Legislative Agenda, drawn directly from the attached “Legislative Agenda 2.0” document and structured to support the President’s eight-point plan, includes:

1. Good Governance & Anti-Corruption: E-Parliament modernization, expansion of auditing oversight, and separation of executivejudicial functions.

2. National Security: Police reform bills (including the State Police Bill), modernization of intelligence sharing, and integration of private CCTV into national security networks.

3. Social Sector Development: Establishment of new universities, polytechnics, and health-science institutions; amendments to the Student Loan Access Act; and expansion of the National Youths Welfare Scheme.

4. Inclusive & Open Parliament: The Special Seats Bill for Women, Youth Quotas, and Voting Rights reform for Nigerians abroad.

5. Economic Growth & Diversification: Citizenshipby-Investment, Export Prohibition repeal, and

Commercial Agriculture Credit Scheme.

6. Fiscal Federalism & Resource Control: Mineral and water rights devolution, revenue-sharing realignments, andhope Allocation of Revenue (Federation Account) Bill.

7. Environmental Sustainability: Establishment of the Nigeria Climate Change Fund, Bio-Fuels Energy Regulatory Commission, and amendments to the Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission.

8. Law Reform & Constitutional Review: Over thirty (30) alteration bills to the 1999 Constitution, Local Government autonomy measures, and the proposed parliamentary system transition.

I salute Rt. Hon. Speaker Abbas Tajudeen PhD, GCON, for orchestrating this legislative surge, and I commend Hon. Cyril Hart Godwin and Hon.

Chinwe Nnabuife Clara for rigorously monitoring its implementation, ensuring that our statutes are not only enacted, but measured for impact.

Today marks a historic step in our collective effort to reposition the People’s House as a truly proactive, responsive, and people-centered institution. This Dialogue, the first of its kind, is designed to:

•Present and discuss the House’s Legislative Agenda for the current Assembly;

•Create a platform for inclusive engagement among lawmakers, policymakers, academia, civil society, and development partners;

•Identify priority policy areas demanding legislative action to accelerate national development;

•Strengthen collaboration and feedback mechanisms between the legislature and stakeholders; and

•Promote transparency, inclusiveness, and strategic

direction in our lawmaking work .

By year’s end, we expect this Dialogue to deliver:

•Enhanced visibility and understanding of our Legislative Agenda;

•Integrated stakeholder inputs into our prioritysetting;

•Fortified partnerships for evidence-based policymaking;

•Policy briefs and recommendations to inform our interventions; and

•Institutionalization of this Dialogue as an annual cornerstone of our legislative calendar.

Under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, we have already seen tangible policy wins; unified exchange-rate windows restoring investor confidence, a record in capital inflows into our energy and tech sectors, and the passage of four streamlined tax-reform laws this year to eliminate multiple taxation and spur productivity. These reforms underscore the fact that bold legislation, when executed with conviction, can transform our nation.

To our partners in progress: the European Union, the British High Commission, UK International Development, PLAC, and the National Assembly Library Trust Fund, your expert guidance, technical assistance, and research capacity have been indispensable. This Dialogue would not be possible without your steadfast support.

As we embark on today’s sessions, let us seize this unique opportunity to interrogate, refine, and co-create the legislative toolkit that will carry Nigeria forward. Through robust debate and collaborative problem-solving, we will ensure that our Legislative Agenda reflects the aspirations of every Nigerian. I look forward to the insightful contributions you will make over the course of this Dialogue. Together, let us craft laws worthy of our nation’s promise and secure a future of shared prosperity and enduring democratic strength.

Thank you, and May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

This was the text of the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu’s Welcome Remarks at the Inaugural National Policy Dialogue on the Legislative Agenda of the House, held in Abuja on Monday, May 12, 2025.

Uromi Sixteen and the Quest to Quell the Drums of War

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shallbecalledchildrenofGod”(Matthew5:9)

The barbaric murder of sixteen Northern travellers last Friday along the Uromi-Ubiaja road have sent shockwaves across Edo State and beyond, raising urgent concerns about security, justice, and community cohesion in our dear nation Nigeria. The tragic loss of life not only deepens existing tensions, but also threatens to escalate into cycles of retaliation and violence. This meat of this submission provides a holistic perspective on the killings, their historical and socio-political context, and the concerted efforts to prevent further bloodshed then recommendations for quelling this unsavoury development and fostering lasting peace.

The gory incident in Uromi where twentyfive travellers from Port Harcourt going home to the north, Kano specifically, for the Eid el-fitri celebrations were intercepted by vigilantes along the way on the suspicion that they were kidnappers and they were lynched to death, reflects deeper underlying tensions within the region. Reports suggest that the killings were the result of intercommunal disputes, political rivalries, or criminal activities, though investigations are still ongoing. Regardless of the cause, the violence underscores the urgent need for proactive conflict resolution and security interventions. The men who suffered the action of untimely death via brute force were said to be hunters and they were suspected by the vigilantes because they were reportedly carrying dane guns, and they had packs of dogs in tow that accompanied them on their way to Garko, Kibiya, Toronkawa and Rano villages domiciled in Bunkure and Rano LGA’s in Kano State.

The Uromi sixteen killings serve as a stark reminder of the fragile nature of peace in conflict-prone societies. However, with decisive

action from government authorities, traditional rulers, and community stakeholders, Edo State can prevent further violence and foster lasting harmony. The drums of war must be silenced through justice, dialogue, and collective efforts to build a future free from bloodshed.

In the wake of the killings earlier, a flurry of accusations and counter-accusations across board has emerged in public domain, further complicating efforts to establish the truth and maintain peace. Political figures, community leaders, and various interest groups have presented conflicting narratives about the causes and culprits behind the violence. Some factions blame political manipulation, while others cite criminal elements exploiting regional tensions. These conflicting claims not only hinder investigations, but also fuel distrust and division within the community. Addressing this challenge requires a commitment to impartial justice and transparent communication from all stakeholders.

The tragic and barbaric incident has received

widespread condemnation, an-on-the spot assessment and condolence visit by Governor Monday Okpebholo to Kano on Monday to the families of victims, who were brutally killed. What is needed now is how to ensure such gruesome occurrence is avoided rather than the drums of war fuelled across the divide. The governor assured the bereaved families and the people of Kano State that justice would be served. Speaking during the visit, Okpebholo described the attack as unfortunate and reiterated his commitment to ensuring that the perpetrators are brought to justice. The Edo governor and his team commiserated with the people of Kano and the families of those who were killed. Okpebholo described the incident as sad and felt sad upon hearing the news. He acknowledged the cordial relationship between the Hausa community and the people of Edo. The helmsman of Edo State is a proverbial peacemaker in this scenario with shuttle diplomacy to calm frayed nerves across board at home and beyond -He has murdered slumber to mediate this latest crisis on his hands.

Furthermore, Okpebholo assured the people of Kano of swift justice and noted that fourteen people had been arrested and moved to Abuja for interrogation. On his part, Governor Yusuf demanded that those who perpetrated the brutal crime must be paraded for the whole world to see. He maintained that Kano remained the most peaceful state in the north and accommodated people from diverse communities. He thanked his counterpart for the prompt visit and called for the immediate prosecution of those arrested so that justice could be served. Both governors called for peaceful coexistence as they visited Toronkawa village in the Bunkure Local Government Area of Kano State.

The heinous act has been widely condemned and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

had given marching orders to security agencies to fish out those behind the killings. “The President, who expressed shock at the dastardly act on Thursday, directed Police and other security agencies to conduct swift and thorough investigations and punish the suspected culprits,” presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga said in a statement on Friday.

The premise of governance is the security of lives and properties of citizenry. The people of Uromi have been subject to a barrage of insecurity via kidnappings, banditry, armed robberies, inability to access farmlands due to fear of been maimed, raped or killed amongst others earlier. In fact, according to eye witness reports once it’s past 4pm in the evening, muzzle silence envelopes the land and no one dares take a trip from Uromi to nearby Amedokhian that’s five minutes away thanks to insecurity.

Lest this development is subject to undue politicisation, insecurity has been a recurring decimal in the border areas of Edo State for a long while from 2015 till date. The vigilantes nestled in Uromi acted on alleged security tip-off that kidnappers were on the prowl.

The stereotyping of the Northern travellers who were found with dane guns and packs of dogs earlier. The reportedly violent brawl that led to the stabbing of a vigilante led to the wanton escalation that morphed into violent proportions beyond comprehension.

Sixteen individuals were left dead amongst the twenty-five passengers on their sojourn to Kano. Two wrongs don’t make a rightThe amplification of blame games does not solve matters. It is imperative to address this thorny issue headlong. It’s a Gordian knot and a difficult problem solvable only by a bold, forceful action, as Alexander the Great famously cut it with his sword.

In a dramatic turn of events, the Department of State Security Services (DSS) has reportedly arrested the suspended State Corps

Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, former CP Friday Ibadin, for questioning over the lynching of Northern travellers on March 27 in Uromi, Esan North East LGA of the state. It’s alleged in certain quarters that Ibadin, who hails from Uromi, had prior knowledge of the activities of certain illegal vigilante entities operating in the area, but failed to take necessary action to curb their excesses. His alleged inaction and lethargy has fuelled suspicion(s) that he may have, at best, turned a blind eye to their activities, or at worst enabled their operations.

One of the primary underlying causes of the Uromi 16 killings can be traced to the broader issue of insecurity in the region, particularly the ongoing clashes between herders and farmers. The struggle over land, grazing rights, and agricultural livelihoods has led to heightened tensions that often result in violent confrontations. Additionally, the rise in banditry and kidnapping across Edo State has further exacerbated instability, as criminal elements exploit the chaos for their own gain. The inability to effectively address these security concerns has created an atmosphere of fear and mistrust, making communities vulnerable to violence. In the aftermath of the killings, fear of retaliatory attacks and reprisals has gripped Uromi and its neighbouring communities. Families of victims, suspected perpetrators, and even neutral parties are increasingly anxious about possible revenge attacks, which could spiral into a cycle of continuous bloodshed. The lingering fear has led to mass displacements, with some residents fleeing their homes to seek refuge in safer locations. This underscores the need for urgent conflict resolution mechanisms, proactive security measures, and dialogue-driven peace efforts to prevent further escalation.

www.thisdaylive.com

Wednesday May 14, 2025

opinion@thisdaylive.com

RESTORING

PEACE IN RIVERS

OFEM UKET writes that the sole administrator is gradually restoring order to the state

See page 21

HAPPY BIRTHDAY,

ADEMOLA ADELEKE

All things considered, President Tinubu has done remarkably well, reckons ABIODUN OLUWADARE

TINUBU: A MIDTERM ASSESSMENT

As Nigeria passes the midpoint of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s first term, one question is starting to echo more loudly across political and policy circles: Who can stop Tinubu in 2027? And more importantly, if they intend to do so, let them first show Nigerians a blueprint that surpasses what Tinubu has already dared to initiate, within just two years.

Against all odds, and in a political culture often defined by hesitation and populist avoidance of hard decisions, Tinubu’s presidency has been characterised by boldness, speed, and structural reform. His administration’s early choices are not only unprecedented in recent Nigerian political history but also transformational in intent and substance. Let’s be clear: these decisions are not without pain. But the pain may well be the price Nigeria has long needed to pay for genuine progress.

While security challenges persist, the shift is unmistakable. Tinubu is not inventing miracles, he is enforcing accountability, streamlining response, and restoring credibility. Insecurity is being treated as a national crisis, not a political inconvenience.

Tax and Economic Governance Reforms: Nigeria’s tax-to-GDP ratio has long languished below 7%, one of the lowest in the world, due to poor compliance, informal economic dominance, and inefficient collection systems. Tinubu’s administration has moved decisively to change this by inaugurating the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, led by respected economist Taiwo Oyedele.

See page 21

TUNDE AKANNI rejoices with the Osun State Governor on his birthday EDITORIAL

For over four decades, Nigeria's fuel subsidy regime functioned as a fiscal black hole, swallowing trillions of naira annually, benefiting a cartel of middlemen and smugglers, and distorting domestic pricing without improving access or quality of life for average Nigerians. Previous administrations made half-hearted attempts to reform it, only to buckle under political pressure or mass protest. The result was a recurring cycle of policy cowardice and economic sabotage.

President Tinubu ended the cycle on Day One. In a single, resolute stroke, he dismantled a decades-old drain on the treasury that had become emblematic of Nigeria’s inability to confront its inefficiencies. Though his decision triggered shortterm inflation and hardship, especially in transport and food prices, it also signalled a long-overdue shift to fiscal realism.

An estimated ₦4 trillion annually, once lost to opaque subsidy payments, can now be redirected toward nation-building projects, rural roads, mass housing, education, healthcare, and social protection. The government now has breathing room to invest, not borrow recklessly. This is not just a budget correction—it is a moral statement about redirecting wealth from elite capture to collective progress.

Yes, the hardship is real. But so is the potential.

What Tinubu has done is reset the national fiscal equation—a bold move that could, in hindsight, define his economic legacy.

Floating the Naira: Rebalancing a Distorted Economy: For years, Nigeria operated a multitiered exchange rate system that was a magnet for corruption and capital flight. By artificially fixing the exchange rate, government policies enriched a privileged few who exploited arbitrage windows while discouraging investment, damaging export competitiveness, and starving the Central Bank of credibility.

Tinubu’s administration took the bull by the horns and floated the naira, ending the charade of artificial stability. While the move led to an initial depreciation of the currency and inflationary shockwaves, it also sent a powerful signal: Nigeria is open for honest business.

The naira float was accompanied by a commitment to unify the exchange rate, eliminate arbitrage, and restore investor confidence. For the first time in years, global financial institutions like the World Bank and the IMF began signalling renewed confidence in Nigeria’s long-term economic direction. Multinational investors

have taken note, and portfolio flows are gradually rebounding.

This is not just an economic decision; it is a structural pivot. Tinubu is rebuilding the Nigerian economy on market principles, transparency, and investor logic, not bureaucratic guesswork or political appeasement. It is a hard road, but the destination—macroeconomic credibility—is worth it.

Student Loan Act: A Game-Changer for Access to Higher Education: In a landmark policy move, President Tinubu signed into law Nigeria’s first-ever functional student loan scheme, targeting millions of bright but economically disadvantaged young Nigerians. This initiative is not a recycled policy, it is a first-of-its-kind intervention that offers tuition and living expense loans to eligible students in public institutions, repayable only after gainful employment.

Unlike token scholarships that help a few or blanket tuition-free promises that bankrupt governments, this model balances access with sustainability. Loans will be processed digitally, backed by a central coordinating agency, and tied to employment data to prevent abuse. This is how countries build human capital, not by slogans, but by structured investment.

In a country where tertiary education was increasingly becoming a class privilege, Tinubu’s Student Loan Act signals a policy breakthrough, equalising opportunity, incentivising merit, and building a future workforce. For countless families, this is not a campaign promise—it is a generational lifeline.

National Security: From Chaos to Coordination

Before 2023, Nigeria’s security landscape was best described as fragmented and fatigued. Insurgency festered in the North-East, bandits terrorised the North-West, and separatist tensions burned in the South-East. The military often appeared reactive, under-equipped, and bogged down by inter-agency rivalry.

Since assuming office, Tinubu has undertaken a quiet but significant restructuring of Nigeria’s security architecture. He appointed experienced service chiefs, prioritised coordination between the military, DSS, police, and civil defence, and recalibrated regional security frameworks.

Crucially, intelligence-led operations have seen notable successes in decimating insurgent cells and disrupting bandit supply chains. Reports of reclaimed territories, reduced attacks on transport corridors, and restored peace in volatile areas are evidence of progress, not propaganda.

This committee is not only reviewing the tax code but is also harmonising levies, digitising tax infrastructure, and eliminating multiple taxation that strangles small businesses. The objective is simple but profound: make tax compliance easier, fairer, and more productive.

This marks a shift from extractive to developmental governance, not just collecting revenue but creating systems where government performance justifies taxation. It also means gradually reducing Nigeria’s reliance on external borrowing, enhancing credit ratings, and attracting long-term capital.

In Tinubu’s vision, governance must be funded domestically and driven by efficiency, not oil windfalls or debt traps.

Debt Repayment: Restoring Nigeria’s Fiscal Sovereignty.

In another bold stroke rarely seen in Nigeria’s recent economic history, President Tinubu’s administration has begun offsetting massive external debts, including the repayment of ₦2.59 trillion owed to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This repayment marks a return to fiscal responsibility, signalling that Nigeria is serious about regaining its financial independence and restoring investor confidence.

By reducing reliance on external credit and honouring obligations promptly, Tinubu is rebuilding Nigeria’s credit profile, laying the groundwork for future investment and long-term macroeconomic stability. It also sharply contrasts with previous administrations that allowed public debt to balloon with little accountability.

So, Who Will Stop Tinubu in 2027? Let Them Come with a Blueprint, Not Just Slogans

It is one thing to criticise from the sidelines, it is another to govern with courage. President Bola Tinubu’s first two years in office have shown that leadership is not about applause but about acting in the national interest, even when it is politically costly. His reforms have bitten hard, but they have also broken ground that no other president in the Fourth Republic dared to touch.

So now we ask again, not sarcastically but seriously: Who will stop Tinubu in 2027? Let the opposition step forward, but only if they are armed with a superior economic vision, a security strategy that works, and a willingness to reform entrenched systems. Nigerians are done with empty rhetoric. The days of campaign jingles with no substance, promises with no structure, and manifestos with no measurable goals are over.

Professor Oluwadare writes from the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna

Editor, Editorial Page PETER

ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

DEATH INSIDE ABANDONED VEHICLES

Disused vehicles which constitute danger should be impounded

Last week, the bodies of three siblings and two others were retrieved from inside an abandoned vehicle in Agyaragu, a quiet farming community on the outskirts of Lafia, Nasarawa State capital. Aged between six and 10 years, the children were discovered locked inside a disused vehicle parked in a residential compound in their neighbourhood. They were promptly evacuated to Aro Hospital, Agyaragu, where they were all confirmed dead - due to suspected suffocation. Sadly, this is a recurring tragedy in Nasarawa State. According to the state police command, a similar incident occurred in August 2019 when two children lost their lives in an abandoned vehicle in Keffi. Six years earlier in Sabon Pegi, Lafia, two children of a chief imam also died after locking themselves in their father’s car.

Over the years, the country has become a graveyard of hundreds of thousands of unserviceable and abandoned vehicles which constitute danger to children. Indeed, death of children in parked vehicles is increasingly becoming alarming, raising clear issues of care and negligence. Although there are no available data, it is common knowledge that a lot of children die from heat stress because they have been left in closed automobiles. Ironically, this potential danger is receiving far less attention than it deserves. In December 2021, Magbon community in Badagry was thrown into confusion following the discovery of the lifeless bodies of eight children aged between four and nine inside a parked Honda Pilot car. Spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command had explained that the children mistakenly locked themselves in the car while playing. Parents whose seven children were among the eight, simply submitted to the fatalistic attitude of the “will of God.”

vehicle in their parent’s compound in Nise, Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State. The incident occurred last January while their parents were away for the day’s activities. The father returned home in the evening and, after searching for over an hour, discovered the children unresponsive inside the car. Efforts to revive them failed. The grieving parents, who reportedly waited years before being blessed with the children, soon relocated from the community.

Cases of disused cars should be reported to the authorities with the possibility of impounding them before they become playgrounds for innocent children

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 T

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA

GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE

DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI

SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI

CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI

Like others, it is suspected that the children died out of suffocation from excessive heat. Some studies have shown that the leading cause of death for children left unattended in motor vehicles is stroke after a dangerously overheated body in response to a prolonged hot, humid weather. It is said that the thermoregulation of young children compared to that of adults shows that their sweating and skin temperature responses are not enough to prevent a rise in body temperature. Perhaps such was the fate that befell two children of a widow whose decomposing bodies were found in an abandoned vehicle in Abraka, Ethiope East Local Government Area of Delta State. The stench of the corpses drew the attention of passersby, leading to a search and the shocking discovery. The corpses of the children aged 9 and 10 were recovered from an abandoned Honda Rover car said to have been parked for about five years.

No less devastating was the death of three siblings, two boys and a girl, inside an abandoned

DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO

TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

The devastation of parents due to this tragedy must be addressed. Cases of disused cars should be reported to the authorities with the possibility of impounding them before they become playgrounds for innocent children. But parents and guardians must also do more to protect their children. They must leave them in the care of responsible adults and ensure vehicles and other dangerous spaces are secured to prevent similar incidents. The Child Rights Act emphasises the importance of family care and parental responsibility.

Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-300 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (750- 1000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive. com along with photograph, email address and phone numbers of the writer.

A WARNING AGAINST AI INVESTMENT SCAM IN NIGERIA

New social media-promoted investment schemes, that claim to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) strategies to create high yielding investment returns have emerged, claiming to use AI to generate guaranteed returns for users. This report highlights why some of these schemes are likely to be scams, outlines red flags, and provides actionable steps to protect unsuspecting investors and victims against financial fraud.

Some of the apps allegedly use “advanced AI” to automate investments, promising high returns with minimal effort.

- Target: Nigerians, particularly young adults and inexperienced investors seeking quick income. Platforms: Advertised via social media (Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram) with flashy testimonials and referral links.

Red Flags of the AI Scams: Too-good-to-be-true returns: Promises of “risk-free” profits (e.g., “double your money in 24 hours”) contradict legitimate investment principles.

Vague AI Claims: No technical details about how the AI works or proof of regulatory approval (e.g., SEC Nigeria). No mention of the names of management behind these schemes.

Pressure to Recruit: Focus on recruiting others (Ponzi structures), offering commissions for referrals. Upfront Payments: Requests for initial deposits, “activation fees,” or personal banking details. Anonymous Operators: No verifiable company address, team, or licenses.

- Ponzi Schemes: Similar to MMM Nigeria (2016), CBex, Umana Umana, and Ultimate Cycler, which collapsed after recruiting stalled.

Phishing Apps: Fake apps mimic legitimate platforms (e.g., fake crypto exchanges) to steal money/data. Social Media Hype: Use of paid influencers and fabricated success stories to lure victims.

How to Protect Yourself : Verify legitimacy.

Check if the platform is registered with SEC Nigeria (sec. gov.ng) or CBN. Search for reviews or scam alerts online (e.g., app scam”). Avoid suspicious offers: Reject unsolicited investment offers or pressure to act quickly. Never share BVN, bank details, or OTPs.

- Educate Yourself: Legitimate AI tools (e.g., Microsoft, Google, Meta, Chatbot ) disclose risks and don’t guarantee returns.

Consult licensed and reputable financial advisors and in-

vestment banks before investing. Bearing in mind that there is always a direct relationship between risk and return. What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed: Stop payments immediately: Contact your bank to block transactions. Report to authorities: EFCC: efcc.gov.ng (https://efcc.gov.ng)

SEC Nigeria: sec.gov.ng/complaints

NCC (for app fraud): 622 (toll-free).

Warn Others: Share your experience on social media to disrupt the scam’s reach.

Legitimate alternatives for AI-Driven Investments: SEC-Approved Funds: Check the SEC Nigeria website for licensed options.

While AI is a legitimate tool in finance, a lot of these ponzi schemes, which have now commenced confusing unsuspecting victims with the claims of the use of AI, exploit its buzzword status to deceive Nigerians. Always prioritize due diligence and skepticism. Remember: If it sounds too good to be true, it likely is.

Stay vigilant. report scams. Protect your community. Sonny Iroche is a leading AI expert in Africa

Kayode Tokede

Following spiralling inflation and other variables, Dangote Cement Plc and 10 other manufacturing companies listed on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), spent an estimated N2.24 trillion on operating expenses in the first quarter (Q1) of 2025.

This represents a significant increase of 29.4 per cent from N1.73 trillion in the first quarter of 2024.

The 11 companies’ massive OPEX is higher than the 24.23 per cent March 2025 inflation figure released by National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

However, the companies were able to drive revenue in Q1 2025, a key factor that contributed to profit generation.

Cumulatively, their revenue stood at N3.23 trillion in in the quarter under review, representing an increase of 46 per cent from N2.22 trillion declared in Q1 2024.

Aside from inflationary pressure, plummeting Naira at the foreign

Nume Ekeghe

Analysts in the financial service sector have lauded the recent passage of four major tax reform bills by the Nigerian Senate, describing them as a bold step toward fiscal federalism and a rebalancing of revenue control between the federal and subnational governments.

The four bills, the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, the Nigerian Tax Administration Bill, the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill form a critical pillar of President Bola Tinubu’s

exchange market, other key factors such as high cost of power, transportation of goods & services, among others contributed to their whooping OPEX Naira at the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM) depreciated to N 1,536.82 against the dollar as of March 2025, from N1,329.76 against the dollar March 2024.

The prolonged Russia-Ukraine war has induced strain in the global supply chain and has continued to the increase in the cost of raw materials for manufacturers as both countries rank among the top 10 producers of wheat.

Analysis of their Q1, 2025 result and accounts submitted to the NGX, showed that Dangote Cement, followed by BUA Foods Plc and Nigerian Breweries Plc recorded the highest of OPEX.

While Dangote Cement declared N612.75 billion OPEX in Q1 2025, about 4.04 per cent increase from

fiscal reform agenda. Together, they propose a sweeping overhaul of Nigeria’s tax architecture, including the replacement of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) with a new Nigerian Revenue Service (NRS), harmonisation of tax administration across tiers of government, and a coordinated national approach to tax policy enforcement.

One of the most debated provisions was the revision of the Value Added Tax (VAT) sharing formula. While the Senate rejected a proposal to gradually raise VAT from 7.5 per cent to 15 per cent by 2030, it approved a redistribution of revenues. Under the new

N588.96 billion in Q1 2024, BUA Foods reported N303.55 billion OPEX in Q1 2025, up 18.6 per cent from N255.87 billion in Q1 2024.

Nigerian Breweries, on its part closed Q1 2025 with a OPEX of N298.5 billion, a growth of 48.4per cent from N201.11 billion in Q1 2024.

In a chat with THISDAY, analysts stated that the hike in inflation rate, among others, contributed to OPEX, which is not restricted to manufacturing companies only.

Sadly, they predicted further hike in OPEX in 2025, stressing that its impact may cut down on earnings and dividend payout to shareholders.

Speaking, the Vice President, Highcap Securities Limited, Mr. David Adnori said the hike in banks operating expenses is a reflection of global economic unrest, stressing that financial institutions operating in Nigeria and in Africa do not operate in isolation.

He expressed that the growth in operating expenses reported by listed

formula, the federal government’s share drops from 15 per cent to 10 per cent, the states’ share rises from 50 per cent to 55 per cent, and local governments retain their 35 per cent allocation.

Analysts at Parthian Partners described the VAT adjustment as noteworthy, adding that based on the place of consumption.

They stated: “Notably, VAT rate was left unchanged at 7.5 per cent, as against the proposed increase to 10 per cent. However, there was a revision in the VAT sharing formula. Now based on the place of consumption, the Federal Government will receive 10 per cent, down from 15 per cent, States will

companies would definitely have an impact on profit and dividend pay-out to shareholders.

He said, “The world is currently facing a high inflation rate and Nigeria, Africa at large are not exempted from this experience, with countries on the continent witnessing record high inflation rate. The surge in inflation rate is following the rally in crude oil prices, amidst the face-off between Russia/ Ukraine, among other nations.

“Reacting to the surging inflation rate, regulators of several countries where Nigerian companies operate have also raised their interest rates to curb the rising cost of goods and services. However, this is yet to yield any significant positive as the inflation rate above 30 per cent. With cost impacted, Nigerian companies may suffer slow profitability this year and it might impact on dividend pay-out.”

On his part, the CEO, Centre for Promotion of Private Enterprise

get 55 per cent up from 50 per cent, while Local Governments will receive 35 per cent unchanged.

On their part, Commercio Partners noted that the restructuring of the Nigerian Revenue Service would bring greater accountability through “regional representation and strict reporting standards,” while allowing more room for state autonomy in tax matters. “The Senate passed all four tax reform bills proposed by President Tinubu, rejecting attempts to raise VAT and cut statutory funding for key agencies like TETFund, NITDA, and NASENI,” the firm stated. The reforms are also seen as a political win for state governors, many of whom have long agitated

(CPPE), Dr Muda Yusuf stated that inflationary pressures remain a key concern in the Nigerian economy, both for businesses and the citizens.

He highlighted that implications of high inflation rate include escalation of production and operating costs for businesses, leading to erosion of profit margins, drop in sales, decline in turnover and weak manufacturing capacity utilisation, high food prices which impacts adversely on citizens welfare and aggravates poverty.

He further stated that weak purchasing power, which poses significant risk to business sustainability and price volatility, which undermines investors’ confidence are major implications of high inflation pressure.

He explained that the major drivers of inflation and cost in the economy include exchange rate depreciation, which has a significant impact on headline inflation, “especially the core sub index and liquidity challenges in the

for a fairer revenue-sharing formula.

Analysts argue that the new structure, while still centrally coordinated, gives subnational entities a stronger fiscal base to develop infrastructure and improve social services.

In its policy outlook, Commercio added that while stakeholder resistance—particularly from labour unions like the TUC and academic unions like ASUU—played a role in halting the VAT increase, the retention of the existing rate alongside a more equitable revenue formula shows that legislative compromise is still possible in Nigeria’s tax policy discourse.

They stated: “The Nigerian Senate has successfully passed all four tax

foreign exchange market impacting adversely on manufacturing output.” He added, “High transportation costs affecting distribution costs across the country. This is also reflected in the huge differential between farm gate prices and market prices; monetization of fiscal deficit (CBN financing of deficit) is highly inflationary because of the liquidity injection effects on the economy. This becomes worrisome when statutory thresholds are exceeded and high transaction costs at the nation’s ports increases production and operating costs of businesses.”

According to aWorld Bank report, Nigeria’s inflation rate is projected to average 22.1 per cent in 2025 as the CBN’s tight monetary stance begins to anchor inflation expectations and restore confidence in macroeconomic management.

reform bills proposed by President Bola Tinubu, marking a significant step in overhauling the country’s tax administration and revenue collection systems. Recently, the Senate approved the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill and the Nigerian Tax Administration Bill, which, among other provisions, proposed the replacement of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) with a new Nigerian Revenue Service (NRS) and recommended adjustments to the VAT revenuesharing formula to favour states and local governments.

ELAN: Leasing Industry Transaction

Volume Grew by 23.2% to N5.16trn in 2024

Dike Onwuamaeze

The Equipment Leasing Association of Nigerian (ELAN), has announced that the Nigerian leasing industry recorded N5.16 trillion volume of transactions in 2024, which represented a growth of 23.2 per cent as against N4.19 trillion it achieved in 2023.

The association added that leasing contribution to the Nigerian economy over the last decade is estimated at N24.6 trillion.

It explained that the leasing industry’s performance in 2024 was driven largely by the oil and gas, transport and logistics and the manufacturing sectors.

According to ELAN: “The oil and gas sector represented 26 per cent of the outstanding leases with N1.3 trillion, followed by the transportation and logistics sector with N1.1 trillion, 21 per cent. Manufacturing had N734 billion, with 13 per cent; telecoms – N462 billion, representing 9.0 per cent.

“Agriculture N378 billion with 8.5 per cent; government N345

billion (7.5 per cent) while others (including healthcare and education) generated N686 billion, accounting for 15 per cent of the volume.”

The association said the growth in lease volume was driven by the astronomical rise in the cost of assets, occasioned by two of the cardinal reforms of government - the removal of petrol subsidies and the floating of the Naira, as more money was required to finance leases.

Other factors, according to ELAN, include more new entrants and investment into the industry; increasing innovations and strong resilience by the industry’s players; increasing level of awareness of the benefits of leasing, which continues to be more compelling given the increasing cost of assets.

It said that finance lease maintained its lead position with 52 per cent of the total transactions, with operating lease increasing its market share in recent times, due to its continued preference and patronage by

corporate bodies. It said that in a bid to create a further niche, some of these lessors have set up workshops of their own, providing services to outside customers as well.

ELAN pointed out that vehicle leasing has remained dominant as the largest leased asset segment, constituting about 53 per cent of the leased assets.

“Vehicle leasing, including staff shuttles, commercial buses, trucks for haulage, and operational vehicles, continued to be a major attraction in recent times. Indeed, the industry is expected to maintain its resilience, given the growth potential of the industry - the wide financing gap in various sectors of the economy and increasing demand for creative financing options to meet asset needs by the investing public, the economic agenda of the governments across all levels especially, increasing spending in critical infrastructure in key sectors such as transportation,” ELAN said.

Omosehin Advises Retirees to Embrace Retirement Savings Products

Ebere Nwoji

The Commissioner for Insurance, Mr Olusegun Ayo Omosehin, has advised retiring workers to see retirement savings products such as annuities, life insurance, and other retirement savings plans not just as financial instruments, but vital tools for peace of mind in later life.

Omosehin also advised insurance managers and other managers of retirement funds to work to ensure that these tools were accessible, transparent, and aligned with the evolving needs of the aging population.

The commissioner who spoke at the 2025 Inspenonline Retirement Summit held in Lagos said the economic headwinds we face today

were not insurmountable, but required coordinated action, strategic foresight, and above all, trust.

“Trust in our institutions, trust in our systems, and trust in our financial instruments,” he emphasised.

According to him, to navigate this period effectively,fund managers must focus on three critical priorities which are policy alignment and regulatory reform.

“We must ensure that our policies across the insurance, pension, and financial sectors are not working at cross-purposes. Regulation must be enabling, responsive, and focused on long-term value rather than short-term gains”.

He also said that relevant sectors must invest in designing affordable, relevant, and inclusive retirement products, especially

for the informal sector, which constitutes a significant portion of the population.

Also speaking, Chairman of the Summit, and former Commissioner for Insurance, Mr Fola Daniel, noted that in today’s unpredictable economic climate, achieving a secure and comfortable retirement has become more challenging than ever.

According to him rising inflation, market volatility, escalating healthcare expenses, and the uncertain future of social security systems all pose significant obstacles.

He however said with proactive planning, disciplined saving habits, smart investment strategies, and the flexibility to adapt to changing conditions, a financially stable and fulfilling retirement is still an attainable goal.

PenCom Requests LASG to Extend Periodic Pension Increase to CPS

The National Pension Commission (PenCom), has urged the Lagos State Governor, Babajide SanwoOlu, to extend periodic pension increases currently enjoyed by Defined Benefit Scheme (DBS) retirees to those under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).

This, according to PenCom, will boost their monthly pensions.

The Director General, PenCom, Ms. Omolola Oloworaran, made the request during a recent courtesy visit to Governor Sanwo-Olu at the Lagos State Government House.

The visit was to present the report of PenCom’s 2024 routine inspection of the Lagos State Pension Commission (LASPEC) and to thank the Governor for

confirming his participation as Special Guest at the Pension Industry Leadership Retreat organised in Lagos.

She pointed out that currently, only DBS retirees were paid pension increases in Lagos State, leaving out their counterparts under the CPS.

She made a case for the prioritisation of retirees under the CPS given the contributory nature of the scheme.

Oloworaran lauded Lagos State as a leading model in effective implementation of the CPS.

She highlighted key achievements, of the state including consistent deduction and remittance of employee contributions to their Retirement Savings Accounts (RSAs), full settlement of all backlog of accrued pension rights, the existence of a

valid Group Life Insurance Policy for most public service employees, and the deployment of advanced ICT systems to enhance pension administration in Lagos State.

Despite this progress, the PenCom DG proposed a partnership with Lagos State to make the Pension Clearance Certificate (PCC) a mandatory requirement for companies seeking for Lagos State Government contracts and services, as practiced at the federal level.

In addition, the DG recommended transitioning unremitted contributions currently held in commercial banks’ escrow accounts into Transitional Contribution Fund (TCF) accounts managed by Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs), to optimise investment returns.

Ebere Nwoji

ALLOTMENT AN NOUNCEME NT

(Th is ann ouncem ent is for rec ord purposes on ly)

RC 7348569

Announces the result of its ₦32,500 ,000,000 Bond Issuance

Followin g the offer for sub scri pt ion by way o f book b uilding of ₦ 32,5 00,000,000 20-Year 22% Seni or Guar anteed Fixed R ate Infrastructure Bon d Due 2045 (th e "Bond") by C raneburg EKSG M otorway Co mpany Plc ("Craneburg EKSG" or "the Issuer" or “ t he Company” ) dated 23rd A pr il 2025, the Company announce s th e succ es sfu l completion o f th e Bond Is suan ce.

Summary of the Bon d Issuanc e is out lined b el ow:

• For ty-one ( 41) ap plicat i ons for a total of 32,500,000 u nits valued at ₦ 32,5 00,000,000 wer e received in connecti on with the Bond I ssu ance

• All for ty-o ne ( 41) app licati ons were found to be valid under t h e terms o f the Off er and were accepted and pr ocessed according ly.

• Th er e were n o invalid applicat ions or rejection s.

• Th e Offer wa s therefore 100% subscribed.

Th e breakdown of th e allotme nt is as follows:

• For ty-one ( 41) invest ors were f ully al lotted their reque sted u n its totaling 32,500,000 u nits.

• Th er e was n o instance o f pa rtial all otment or scaling dow n o f bids.

• Th er e were n o applicat ion s for additional unit s beyond the in itial bids received.

• N o units were rejected or retur ned.

The allotment of the Bonds would be effected by way of e-allotment. Consequently, the Registrars CardinalStone Registrar s Limited, 335/337, Herbert Macaulay Road, Yaba, Lagos will credit the respective Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) accounts of successful allottees with the allotted Bonds no later than seven (7) Business Days from the date of obtaining the SEC’s approval

LEAD ISSUING HOUSE

JOINT ISSUING H OUSES

Truckers Back e-call-up System to Tackle Onne Port Congestion

Despite claims that a call-up system is not necessary at the Onne Port in the Eastern part of the country, the Association of Maritime Truck Owners (AMATO) has said that implementing a fully automated system would not only streamline trade operations but also help prevent road accidents.

In a statement, a Chieftain of SouthSouth Chapter, Adeshina Ajibola, stated that the need to re-order the movement of trucks into and out of the Federal Ocean Terminal, and Federal Lighter Terminal, in Onne Port will take trucks that usually park at booths sides of the road leading to port off the road.

truck movement and eliminating illegal roadside parking in and around port corridors.”

although the policy was introduced by the NPA without input from truckers, it must still be complied with.

initially launched in Onne before being implemented in Lagos.

He said that congestion will continue to choke major access roads around the Onne port axis as stakeholders in the trucking and logistics industry are voicing support for the call-up system, an initiative he said is “aimed at streamlining

He explained that trucks parked on both sides of the road are supposed to be inside a truck park, adding that automating truck movements will also enhance data creation of throughput and other trade data.

Commenting on the development, a trucker, Mr. John Chukwu, noted that

Similarly, Mr. Mike Idike, a trucker said the mistakes of the Lagos Call Up system have been corrected in technology being deployed to Onne port adding the failure of Apapa will not be repeated.

Speaking, Chairman of Call Up Technologies, Mr. Ayo Durowaye, explained that the call-up system was

He emphasised that the port represents a matter of national security and should be managed accordingly, noting that the movement of both people and vehicles in and out of the port must be strictly regulated to ensure the safety and security of this vital economic asset.

In his comments, Samuel Ossai,

London, Risk Analysts Organise Training on Energy Risk Insurance

Issues bothering on Energy Risk Insurance and case studies on Risk Assessment of Oil & Gas/Energy Insurance to enhance understanding of risk assessment techniques will

form the thrust of this year’s edition of insurance capacity training organised by the CII London in collaboration with Risk Analyst Consultants (UK) Limited.

The organisers said they observed that Oil & Gas/Energy sector, as a

cornerstone of global progress, was confronted by distinct challenges in the exploration, production, and distribution of energy resources.

According to them, in regions like Nigeria, Africa, and beyond, this sector not only drives

economic growth but also pioneers risk management practices and sustainable innovations that transform industries and uplift communities.

In a statement to this effect signed by the Managing

ALLOTMENT ANNOUNCEME NT

Consultant Risk Analyst Consultant, Dr Funmi Babington -Ashaye, the organisers noted that to support this vital sector, insurance capacity training played an indispensable role.

“By equipping professionals

Coordinating Secretary of Onne Container Truck Drivers, stated that truck drivers are eager to embrace the Call-Up system at Onne Port. He added that anyone opposing the initiative is likely acting out of selfish or disgruntled motives. Ossai also said that the group had concluded plans to sensitize its members ahead of the commencement of the implementation of the call up in Onne Port.

with the expertise to navigate the complexities of Oil & Gas/Energy operations, such training fosters a deeper understanding of tailored risk management strategies and innovative insurance solutions”, she said.

•

L-R: Manager Drink Fest Lagos, Oge Nwafor; Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts & Culture, Lagos State, Idris Aregbe; Manager Drinks Fest Lagos, Barakat Sanni-Shittu; Chief Organiser Drinks Fest Lagos, Theodore Nyingifa at the announcement of the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture partnership with Drink Fest Lagos... recently

Ebere Nwoji

Leadway Partners AGRA to Offer Farmers Insurance Scheme

Ebere Nwoji

In its effort to boost agricultural activities across the country and attract more farmers to the system, Leadway Assurance Company Limited, has entered into partnership with the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) through a $399,900 credit grant initiative to offer to farmers an insurance premium credit offer tagged , “Pay At Harvest” Insurance scheme.

AGRA is an African institution supporting inclusive agricultural transformation and sustainable food systems. The scheme is a three-year initiative, running from March 2025 to March 2028, and aims to transform the livelihoods of 21,000 smallholder farmers (SHFs) across Kaduna, Nasarawa, and Niger States.

Speaking on the partnership, Head, Agribusiness, Leadway Assurance, Mr. Fatona Ayoola said the underwriting firm entered into the partnership upon realisation that climate change continues to escalate risks for

Nigerian farmers, manifesting in unpredictable rainfall, prolonged droughts, extremely high lethal temperatures and increased crop failure.

“This volatility threatens national food security/systems and undermines years of agricultural progress,” he stated.

Recognising the scale of this challenge, Ayoola said Leadway has taken a bold step forward, championing innovative risk management strategies tailored to the realities of rural agriculture.

“At the heart of the new intervention is the “Pay at Harvest” insurance scheme, an innovative premium collection model that enables farmers to defer insurance payments until after harvest, when liquidity is more assured. The company said this approach lowered the financial barriers to insurance enrollment, increased uptake among small holder farmers and embeds resilience within the agricultural value chain.

“Pay at Harvest” empowers farmers to protect their liveli-

hoods without upfront costs, ensuring they can bounce back from climate-related losses and secure credit, inputs, and market access with greater confidence. This new grant builds upon Leadway Assurance’s successful three-year partnership with Heifer International, under which over 60,000 smallholder farmers benefited from the “Pay at Harvest” model,” Ayoola said.

According to him, the current AGRA-funded and sponsored project goes a step further by offering a more holistic package, including access to off-takers and market linkages, extension services and climate-smart agronomy support, digital mapping of farmlands for enhanced monitoring and accountability, timely early warning systems for extreme weather events, scalable farmer education programs to promote financial literacy and climatesmart practices, and expanding public-private collaborations for unlocking innovative finance, including green climate finance, for crop insurance.

STI Sees Man Power Development as Basis for Operational Efficiency

Ebere Nwoji

Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc has reiterated its uncompromising stance on continuous manpower development as the basis for sustainable operational efficiency and business profitability.

The company’s management said it has identified this as the key critical factor for providing enhanced and seamless insurance service delivery to all policyholders under the stable of the organisation. According to the Head of Human Resources of the Organisation, Adeola Onichabor, the company is not resting on its

oars in ensuring that every employee in the system is adequately trained and developed to cope with the dynamics of the modern trends that are likely to emerge in this decade in the insurance and financial services in Nigeria.

At the training session organised for members of the Marketing and Technical team of the company Onichabor said the objective of the training was to encourage the members of the team to embrace new ways of doing things as the world gets dynamic both in technology and human capital development.

He said the training had become very imperative going

eTranzact Deepens Digital Payments Drive

Nume Ekeghe

In a strategic push to boost digital payment adoption among Nigeria’s informal sector, Credo by eTranzact has expanded its footprint to southern Nigeria through a hands-on market activation campaign across key commercial hubs in Port Harcourt.

eTranzact in a statement said the initiative, held in partnership with Eligbam City, focused on onboarding small business owners across Garrison Computer Village, Rumukalagbor Market, and Rumuomasi Market—markets known for their vibrant commercial activity but dominated

by cash-based transactions.

Speaking at the event, Omokorede Amund, Product Marketing Manager, Credo by eTranzact said, “We’re not just building a payment solution, we’re building confidence in the future of small businesses.”

The activation focused on addressing real concerns, including transaction security, ease of use, and daily settlement challenges. Traders were shown how to accept payments both online and offline, track sales, and manage records using the Credo platform.

The campaign approach highlights a growing trend among fintechs: moving

by the recent happenings in the insurance industry and that the company needed to strategically position itself for the opportunities that the market might be bringing up in the near future.

Speaking, Head of Corporate Communications and Investor Relations of the company, Segun Bankole, said in exploring the opportunities, the underwriting firm did not want to lose sight of the professional implications and risk management issues involved which is why it has taken time out to educate and upgrade the knowledge base of its personnel who were critical to the operations of its business.

beyond digital ads and influencer campaigns to engage directly with business owners in markets and other informal spaces.

“Port Harcourt is full of hustle and innovation; this roadshow allowed us to meet business owners where they are and demonstrate practical ways they can benefit from digital payments,” Amund added.

The activation also featured a raffle draw, offering prizes such as WiFi routers, cash rewards, and small business tools an incentive designed to attract participation and provide immediate value to attendees.

Unity Bank Deepens Commitment to Financial Literacy Youth Outreach

Nume Ekeghe

Unity Bank Plc has again championed the cause of financial literacy by facilitating Training in 13 secondary schools across Nigeria to commemorate the 2025 Global Money Week. Held under the theme, “Think before you follow, wise money tomorrow,” this year’s engagement focused on helping young people develop discernment and critical thinking in making financial decisions, particularly in an era shaped by

social media influence and digital distractions.

In a statement, Unity Bank’s Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Ebenezer Kolawole, supported the initiative as the Bank held an impactful session at Boys Model Secondary School, Owerri, Imo State. Represented by the Bank’s Zonal Head, South South/South East, Mr. William Odigie, Mr. Kolawole shared practical lessons on financial responsibility, guiding students on how to cultivate savings culture, investment and financial

management; advising against any impulsive financial behaviours, more especially those involving online.

Speaking through the Zonal Head during the Training session, Mr. Kolawole emphasised the importance of being exposed early to financial management: “The habits you form now around saving, spending, and investing will shape your financial future. It’s not about how much you have, but how wisely you manage it.”

Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo),

(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).

Stock Market Appreciates by N314bn on Buy Interest in Oando, Others

Kayode Tokede

The Nigerian equities market yesterday reversed prior day’s profit-taking as the overall capitalisation appreciated by N314 billion supported by investors buying interest in Oando Plc and 39 others.

The Nigerian Exchange Limited All Share Index (NGX ASI) gained by 501.14 basis points or 0.46 per cent to close at 108,762.61 basis

points. Accordingly, the Month-to-Date and Year-to-Date returns improved to +2.8per cent and +5.7per cent, respectively.

Also, market capitalisation rose by N314 billion to close at N68.357 trillion.

Analysing by sectors, the NGX Consumer Goods Index appreciated by 1.7 per cent, NGX Insurance gained 0.9per cent and NGX Banking Index advanced

by 0.2per cent, while the NGX Industrial Goods index dipped by 0.6per cent and NGX Oil & Gas dropped by 0.2 per cent. However, investors’ sentiment, as measured by market breadth, improved as 40 stocks advanced, while 24 declined.

Chellaram and Oando recorded the highest price gain of 10 per cent each to close at N11.44 and N49.50 respectively, while Transcorp followed with a gain of

9.99 per cent to close at N46.25, per share. Beta Glass rose by 9.96 per cent to close at N194.30, while Caverton Offshore Support Group up by 9.85 per cent to close at N3.68, per share.

On the other hand, Haldane McCall led the losers’ chart by 9.85 per cent to close at N4.21, per share. Academy Press followed with a decline of 7.33 per cent to close at N4.30, while UPDC declined by 6.25 per cent to close

at N3.00, per share. ABC Transports depreciated by 6.13 per cent to close at N2.91, while NPF Microfinance Bank declined by 5.14 per cent to close at N2.03, per share.

Meanwhile, the total volume traded rose by 20 per cent to 498.480 million units, valued at N10.782 billion, and exchanged in 14,916 deals.

Transactions in the shares of Tantalizer topped the activity chart

Thisday Afrinvest Index Up 0.8%

Thisday Afrinvest 40 index rose 0.8% to print at 5,354.11 points due to price appreciation in GTCO (+0.1%), INTBREW (+1.1%), and NB (+9.5%). Cumulatively, these stocks account for 17.8% of the index.

Bulls Resurface on the Customs Street ASI up 0.5%

In line with our expectation, the domestic bourse reversed previous day’s loss as the NGX ASI rose 0.5% to close at 108,762.61 points supported by buying interest in TRANSCORP (+10.0%), OANDO (+10.0%), and NB (+9.5%). Consequently, YTD return rose to 5.7% (previously: 5.2%), while market capitalisation gained 0.3% to ₦68.4tn. Meanwhile, trading activity improved as volume and value traded rose by 20.0% and 0.6% to 498.5m and ₦10.8bn respectively.

Positive Sector Performance

Across sectors under our coverage, performance was largely positive as five indices gained while the AFR ICT closed flat. The Consumer Goods and Insurance indices led the gainers, up 1.7% and 0.9% respectively due to buying interest in NB (+9.5%), CHAMPION (+8.6%), AIICO (+3.1%), and CORNERST (+3.3%). Following, the Oil & Gas and Banking indices rose 0.8% and 0.2% owing to price appreciation in TRANSCORP (+10.0%), OANDO (+10.0%), FIDELITY (+7.1%) and STERLING (+5.3%). Similarly, buying interest in BETAGLAS (+10.0%) and MEYER (+9.7%) lifted the Industrial Goods index by 0.1%.

Outlook

Investor sentiment, as measured by market breadth, improved to 0.25x from 0.21x in the previous session as 40 stocks advanced, 24 declined, while 64 closed flat. We expect the bourse to sustain the positive momentum today, due to Q1 earnings driven improved valuation of major tickers and muted activities in the primary market segment for fixed income papers this week.

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 09 May-2025, unless otherwise stated.

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS

Akintunde’s Giant Strides at Adeyemi University of Education

Fidelis David reports that Prof. Samuel Akintunde’s tenure as the acting Vice-Chancellor of Adeyemi University of Education (AFUED), Ondo, has been marked by transformative leadership and visionary initiatives, yielding remarkable growth and development, positioning the institution for continued excellence and relevance in the global academic community

Prof. Samuel Akintunde’s leadership at Adeyemi Federal University of Education (AFUED), formerly known as Adeyemi College of Education (ACE), Ondo, has justified that he’s a leader who gets the people to do the greatest things, going by the high level of transformation in the institution.

Akintunde’s visionary leadership has created a clear path towards progress for AFUED, and his commitment to economic diversification, quality education, and human capital development has set a high standard for future development.

History was made in November 2023 when the Federal Government appointed Akintunde as the acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor of AFUED as part of the implementation process of the conversion of the school from Adeyemi College of Education to university status.

Being a student and a lecturer in the institution makes him a bridge; he sees from the inside and outside. The journey from student life to leadership has equipped him with enough experience to succeed in the divine assignment.

It is, therefore, incontestable that the VC has made significant contributions to the institution. A graduate of Geography Education from Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo, with a Master’s and PhD in Social Studies from the University of Ibadan. He had over two decades of experience as a lecturer and head of the Department of Social Studies. Subsequently, he served as provost of Adeyemi College of Education before his current appointment.

It is worthy of note that the second alumnus to head the institution in the approximately six decades of existence of the college also served as Chairman of the College of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU), Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo (2013-2016).

Particularly as acting vice-chancellor of AFUED, Akintunde has played a crucial role in shaping the university’s future and advancing its academic mission with his experience and expertise, thereby contributing to the institution’s growth and development.

Given the level of transformation in the institution, Akintunde deliberately prepared for the school to become a university. AFUED, under his watch, has invested heavily in modernizing its infrastructure to provide students with state-of-theart facilities. This includes spacious lecture halls and advanced digital libraries, the construction of a block of four classrooms, construction/upgrade of a college road and walkways of 1,250 metres with drainages on both sides (LOT 2) (Phase I).

Other projects are the construction of a new access road - Health Centre Road, supply of laptop computers, construction of a block of 20 academic staff offices, construction of a new dual carriageway from Ondo/Ore Highway-Phases I and II, construction of new entrance gate, among other projects.

AFUED’s infrastructural development journey showcases its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and sustainability. By continuing to invest in modern facilities, research initiatives, and sustainable practices, the university is poised to remain a leader in higher education. Meanwhile, projects initiated through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) include the rehabilitation of the health centre building (ETF project 1999), the construction of an academic complex for the School of Education, the construction of an office and theatre for the School of Education, the construction of an library complex of a storey building, construction of Administrative Block of a storey building, procurement, installation, testing and commissioning and furnishing for library, procurement of 33 seater coaster bus, procurement, installation, testing and commissioning of computers and equipment, rehabilitation of students hostel ETF, construction and furnishing of one-storey students hostel (350 beds)

They also include the supply and installation of 200 5-seater classroom seats, 55 HP 050 notebooks, construction of a 1.2km access road, construction and furnishing of students hostel, construction and furnishing of academic staff office building construction and furnishing of students recreation centre, among others. These facilities enhance

the learning experience and attract top talent to the university.

Before his assumption of office, approximately 70 per cent of the roads on campus were unpaved, leaving many areas muddy and inaccessible, which was unbefitting of a tertiary institution, but with the present infrastructural development, it is not out of place to say that the VC deserve accolades for all his magnanimity and excellent leadership styles.

AFUED, which officially attained university status in 2022, has made remarkable infrastructural progress within a short time, prompting questions about whether the management had anticipated the upgrade long before it became official.

Corroborating this while speaking with journalists recently at the institution, Akintunde said one of the motivating factors was the school’s preparation to become a university.

Akintunde said, “A well-established road network is essential for any institution of higher learning. A university should not have roads filled with mud and dust. Additionally, expansion was a priority. Take our library, for example. The main library was constructed 50 to 60 years ago and no longer meets the needs of today’s students in terms of size and facilities. Expanding the library was a necessary step.

“To plan adequately for the university, restructuring was also essential. We had to rethink the academic structure, leading to the establishment of faculties. This was the rationale behind constructing the iconic Faculty of Education building that you saw. We are even expanding that faculty further with two new buildings, each

containing 20 offices. One of them is already about 70 per cent completed.”

He reiterated that preparing for university status was not merely about titles but about creating an environment that reflects the values and standards of higher education.

For expansion and a significant increase in student enrollment and growth, he hinted that his administration is establishing several faculties, including the Faculty of Education, Faculty of Arts, Faculty of Management and Social Sciences, Faculty of Vocational and Technical Education, Faculty of Agriculture, Faculty of Science, Faculty of Computer and Computing Science.

Beyond these achievements, the school under his watch has introduced new academic programmes, which include Computer Science, Accounting, Arabic, Music, Political Science, Theatre Arts, Microbiology and Biochemistry.

“In just one year, significant progress has been made. Previously, the institution had only 18 degree programmes. After rigorous evaluation by the National Universities Commission (NUC), we were approved for 49 degree programmes,” stated Akintunde. “Currently, we are actively running about 36 to 40 programs. By the end of the coming academic session, we plan to introduce more programmes. Our approved academic plan aims to have 88 degree programs within five years.”

Beyond academic programmes, he said the school under his administration has launched an Entrepreneurship and Vocational Development Centre to equip students with life skills they can use after graduation.

The skills acquisition programme is compulsory for all students. They must obtain certification before graduation, he said. Students can learn skills in various fields, including agriculture, electrical work, catering and hospitality, and hotel management.

“Additionally, we’ve established the Adeyemi

All my achievements are meaningful, but reaching this point with the university stands out. Back in our student days, we dreamed of this school becoming a university. That dream has come true. We now have professors and proper academic placement. This is a road worth celebrating.

College of Technology, registered under the National Board for Technical Education. The college offers specialised training in software and hardware engineering. We are currently in the second level of the National Diploma programme and are expanding to offer more programmes,” he explained.

Every transformation journey comes with challenges, and AFUED under Akintunde is no exception.

“However, our determination and resilience have kept us moving forward. One of the initial challenges was securing NBTE accreditation for the College of Technology,” he said. “We needed to provide the necessary facilities and hire personnel, but we overcame these hurdles. Today, all four programmes at the college have been accredited.”

The VC highlighted the support of key stakeholders towards achieving university status. He said the federal government played a pivotal role, particularly through funding provided by TETFund. Also, according to him, many of the capital projects on campus were TETFund-supported.

“Without funding, even the best vision cannot materialise. We have leveraged these funds effectively to bring our vision for AFUED to life.

Apart from external support, the VC said AFUED has also maximized its internally generated revenue.

“Several major projects, such as the construction of a new hall at the staff school, renovation of hostels, and the repair of internal roads, were accomplished through prudent management of IGR. While new road construction was carried out with TETFund grants, the older roads were rehabilitated using IGR, reflecting a commitment to both sustainability and resourcefulness,” Akintunde stated.

He noted that the transformation of ACE into a full-fledged university is a testament to strategic planning, visionary leadership, and collaborative effort and with continuous development in infrastructure, academic expansion, and community engagement, the institution is poised to become a leading institution in the educational landscape. He said that AFUED also benefited from strong community support, particularly from the Osemawe-in-Council, whose intervention was critical when the university needed funds for NUC resource verification and had exhausted all internal funds.

“It would have been a financial crime to divert funds from TETFund for that purpose,” the VC noted. “But the community stepped in, and we later refunded them after over a year.”

Besides, the VC stated that the university is proud to be associated with notable personalities, including the first lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. A lecture hall named after her, the Remi Tinubu Lecture Hall, stands as a symbol of her past contribution. In recognition of her service to education and humanity, the university plans to confer on her an honorary doctorate in Science Education during its maiden convocation.

According to the VC, this honorary award is a strategic move to deepen relationships with influential stakeholders and attract more philanthropic and developmental contributions to the university.

In consonant with Ronald Reagan’s belief that the greatest leader is not necessarily the one who does the greatest things but the one that gets the people to do the greatest things, Akintunde said, “All my achievements are meaningful, but reaching this point with the university stands out. Back in our student days, we dreamed of this school becoming a university. That dream has come true. We now have professors with proper academic placement. This is a road worth celebrating.

“Still, I don’t see it as my achievement. Without the good people around me, my lieutenants, it wouldn’t have been possible. I’m not the one running the Information and Public Relations Office or the Registry. It’s the hardworking people there. But whatever they do well reflects on me as the chief executive.”

As AFUED looks towards the future, Prof. Akintunde’s blueprint for progress remains a shining example of what can be achieved through visionary leadership.

Akintunde

CELEBRATING AN AGE-LONG INITIATIVE...

Senate Leader: With Current Defections in NASS, APC Building Govt of National Unity

Absolves Tinubu of accusation of creating one-party state, coercing defectors Three Kebbi PDP senators join ruling party

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

Leader of the Senate, Opeyemi Bamidele, yesterday, justified the defection of all federal lawmakers from Kebbi State to All Progressives Congress (APC), saying the ruling party “is now running a government of national unity”.

Bamidele, representing Ekiti Central in the upper chamber, stated that President Bola Tinubu did not coerce any member of the opposition political parties to defect to APC, contrary to public criticism.

He made the clarification at Senate Chamber, National Assembly

Complex, Abuja, when all federal lawmakers from Kebbi State formally announced their defection to APC.

The three Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) senators from Kebbi State, at plenary, defected to APC. They are Adamu Aliero (Kebbi Central), Yahaya Abubakar Abdullahi (Kebbi North), and Garba Maidoki (Kebbi South).

Their letters of defection were read separately on the floor of the chamber by Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibrin Barau, who presided the plenary.

The formal announcement was witnessed by APC National

Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje; Governor of Kebbi State, Alhaji Nasir Idris; and APC National Organising Secretary, Alhaji Sulaiman Argungu, among others.

After the announcement on Tuesday, Bamidele defended the defection of the federal lawmakers to APC. He said their decision was based on the overriding public interest and had nothing to do with turning Nigeria into a one-party state.

He stated that the ruling party “will not close our doors to anyone intending to join the party. In the same way, we will not also discriminate against anyone either on the

basis of religion, tribe or any other factor. Our doors will continue to be open for more people to join at all levels”.

Bamidele explained, “In the meantime, we will continue to work with the members of the minority political parties. It is not by sheer coincidence that virtually all political parties, from the Young Progressives Party (YPP) to the Peoples Democratic Party, have to join the ruling APC.

“Even APGA, which has not joined the ruling party, has also graciously nominated and donated an honourable minister of state to the Federal Government of Nigeria

Terrorism: Senate Seeks Urgent Deployment of More Troops to Borno, Yobe

The Senate yesterday urged the Nigerian Armed Forces to urgently deploy additional personnel and advanced equipment to Borno and Yobe states.

The Red Chamber passed the resolution in the wake of a fresh wave of attacks by Boko Haram insurgents in the two North-east states.

The resolution was adopted and passed after the upper chamber deliberated on a motion moved by the Senate Chief Whip, Tahir Munguno.

The Senator had drawn the attention of his colleagues to the renewed violence in the North-east, citing the killing of over a dozen soldiers in Marte town in Monguno

local government area of Borno State, on Monday, May 12.

He said terrorists launched another assault early on Tuesday on Gajiram, the headquarters of Nganzai local government area.

Monguno further drew the Senate attention to the resurgence of terrorist activity in an area that had previously enjoyed relative peace.

He said while two-thirds of Borno’s local government areas were once under Boko Haram control, coordinated efforts by the Nigerian Armed Forces and the Civilian Joint Task Force had successfully reclaimed most of the territories.

However, he lamented that the relative stability had prompted the military to shift tactical command to the North-west, where troops are currently tackling kidnapping and banditry.

The lawmaker expressed deep concern over the terrorists’ evolving tactics, including the use of modern technologies, such as drones.

He also said they were increasing deployment of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), which he said have led to rising civilian and military casualties and disrupted key transportation routes in the region.

“The recent attacks highlight the need for the military to reassess its current deployment strategy and refocus on the North-east,” Munguno stated.

Following deliberations, the Senate urged the military high command to immediately deploy sufficient troops to the North-east region.

The Senate also resolved that the military should ensure that the

Niger Commissioner: Why Our CNG Buses Are Not

Niger State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Hajia Binta Mammam, has given reasons why the Compressed Natural Gas, CNG, buses purchased by the state government are not running.

Niger State has a total of 250 CNG buses out which it initially commissioned 200 before receiving another 50.

Hajia Binta Mammam also debunked claims that some of the buses now parked at the trade fair complex in Minna have been vandalized.

Answering questions from news men on the outcome of the State

Executive Council meeting held at the government house, the Commissioner blamed the inability of the CNG Buses to operate on lack of gas.

According to her the state planned to set up three gas plants at Suleja, Lambatta and Minna but the plants are yet to start functioning. She added that the nearest gas station to Minna is Abuja which she said is not economically wise to drive the buses there to purchase gas. She however said that government is doing everything possible to put the buses on the road for the benefit of the people adding that it was a nice decision that the

administration bought the vehicles in the first instance saying that the buses are intact nobody has vandalized any of them.

“Many states that want to buy these buses cannot do so now because of their high prices” Binta Mammam declared.

She also disclosed that the state government has tackled the security problem initially facing the state.

“Niger State has tackled the issue of insecurity that is why people can now go to their farms” Mammam declared before submitting that government should be commended for the steps taken to restore peace in several parts of the state.

deployed personnel are equipped with modern technologies to match the terrorists’ growing capabilities. It mandated its committees on Army and Air Force to monitor and ensure compliance with the resolution.

Munguno emphasised that renewed military presence and tactical upgrades were essential to preventing further escalation of violence and protecting vulnerable communities in the affected areas.

under the APC administration. That is to say what we are now running is a government of national unity.”

Bamidele commended the new APC members for their decision to join the ruling APC. He reflected on how PDP was, allegedly, coercing members of the opposition parties to defect to its fold when it was in government at the federal level.

The senate leader stated, “We were all in this country when PDP was the ruling party. We saw all the things that happened under the PDP in an attempt to get more states, more seats in the senate, and more seats in the House of Representatives. We are not at the polls. No one is being coerced.

“If anyone is coerced, definitely the person is not Senator Adamu Aliero. All of us know that the person cannot be Senator Yahaya Abdullahi that will be co-opted. Neither will Senator Garba Maidoki, with a stint in the private sector before he ventured into politics, defect to APC without clear conviction. They are not all in politics so that they can feed themselves and families.

“As far as we are concerned, Senator Yahaya Abdullahi that I know will rather stay in opposition and be very loud. They all recognise that this is not the time for grandstanding. This is the time for all of us to work together to take Nigeria to the next level.

“One of the defectors has been

privileged to be the governor of Kebbi State, precisely from 1999 to 2007. He even served as the Honourable Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Today, he is the most ranking member of the senate.

“Another one has served as Leader of the Senate in the ninth National Assembly. These are people who know what they are doing. They can never mislead the people of Kebbi State. They can never mislead Nigeria.”

Bamidele added, “For us in APC, this is a wonderful development. For those who are keenly watching political developments, rest assured that at the end of the day, this can only be for the good and greatness of Nigeria.

“To the rest of our colleagues on the minority isle, we will continue to work together for the progress of Nigeria. I say it again for the umpteenth time. Those who refer to this parliament as a rubber stamp parliament should note that we are at a very critical stage of our national life when all hands must be on deck.

“Today, it is not about which political party you belong to. Once you are in this hallowed chamber, it does not matter which political party you belong to. What matters to us all is the overriding public interest. In the course of collectively serving overriding public interests, three of our colleagues saw the need to cross to the ruling APC.”

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

The Universal Basic Education Commission, UBEC, says it will unveil a new module to address the gaps in the disbursement and access to the federal government’s counterpart funding for Universal Basic Education (UBE) programme in the country.

The new template being subjected to further scrutiny and validation would remove some of the gaps and encumbrances associated with access to the intervention funds by state governments which often leads to billions of un-accessed funds.

Executive Secretary of the Commission, Aisha Garba, made this known on Tuesday during an interactive workshop on the new modules for the preparation of work plans to access UBE intervention funds, with Chairmen of State Universal Basic Education Boards

and Desk officers from 36 States of the Federation and FCT held in Abuja.

The UBEC boss noted the federal government, through the commission, recently had to re-align the delivery of basic education in line with four strategic pillars to ensure increased access and quality education delivery in states and the FCT.

According to her, the pillars are:” Expanding access to UBE especially for rural and underserved population; Enhancing Quality of teaching and learning nationwide; Strengthening accountability and effective use of basic education finances and Optimizing monitoring and institutional system for quality service delivery.

“Accordingly, the Hope Education Project of the present administration is a performance for Reward project for States that apply their resources

for education judiciously, especially in achieving the four pillars.

“Consequently, this has necessitated the need to develop new templates that will enable SUBEBs to prepare work plans for accessing the UBE Intervention Funds in line with the four pillars as well as implementation of the New Hope Projects.”

The Deputy Executive Secretary, General Services of the Commission, Tunde Ajibulu, while giving the welcome address, said the realignment of the delivery of basic education necessitated the need to come up with new templates for the access of UBE intervention funds.

“Therefore, this interactive workshop on the New Templates is timely and we expect you as the implementers of Basic Education in your various states to contribute positively and come up with workable templates.”

L-R: Bro. Arc. Olawunmi Agbaje (Past Chairman); Bro. Bolaji Cole (Trustee); Bro. Chief Dr. Abayomi Finnih (Vice Patron & Trustee); Bro. Chief Olakunle Agbebi, SAN (Chairman); Bro. Chief Engr. Olawunmi Gasper, mni (Vice Chairman); Bro. Babaseyi Joseph, SAN (Trustee); and Bro. Dele Marins (Past Chairman), at the unveiling ceremony of the Yoruba Tennis Club Centenary Logo held in Lagos… weekend

Laleye Dipo in Minna

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

WOMEN OPTOMETRIST IN NIGERIA’S MEDICAL OUTREACH...

L-R’: Secretary, Women Optometrist in

FCT

Tinubu, Jonathan, Akpabio, Others, Bid

Elder Statesman, Pa Edwin Clark, Farewell

Sylvester Idowu in Warri

President Bola Tinubu, former President Goodluck Jonathan, and his wife, Dame Patience, Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, Delta State Governor, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, and his wife, Tobore, were among the dignitaries who paid tribute to the late elder statesman, Chief Edwin Clark, yesterday. Clark died on February 17 at the age of 97.

The funeral service was held at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Kiagbodo, in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State.

Other dignitaries in attendance were Governors Douye Diri of Bayelsa State, Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, and Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State.

Also present were Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, and his wife, Ezinne Catherine; former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa; Senators Joel-Onowhakpo Thomas, Ede Dafinone, Henry Seriake Dickson; Chief Rufus Ada George; and Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, among others.

Tinubu, represented by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, expressed sadness over the passing of the elder statesman and respected leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF).

TETFUND:

Tinubu said, “Pa Clark was a passionate advocate for resource control, economic and social justice. He was a beacon of courage who spoke for the Niger Delta and the nation.

“His views on national issues were distinct and patriotic. He believed in a united Nigeria. As an astute politician, even his opponents never doubted his integrity.”

Jonathan described Clark as a great nationalist, who lived in full validation of human dignity.

The former president said regarding Clark, “He was a staunch advocate for freedom and national pride. Pa Clark was more than a father and leader; he was an ambassador, an audacious voice for the voiceless, and a steadfast preacher of justice and minority rights.

“Whether as a federal commissioner or later as an elder statesman, he remained a courageous and fearless advocate for equity, justice, inclusivity, and good governance.”

Akpabio said, “Pa Clark was a Pan-Nigerian and Pan-African, who fought for all, including the minorities.

“He has left a legacy and a responsibility to his followers. He did well for Nigeria and for the Niger Delta. The Senate valued him, and his memory will remain a part of our national history.

“He stood tall when others bowed

House Mulls Support

for Inter-University Centres as Bill Passes Second Reading

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

The House of Representatives has passed for second reading a Bill seeking inclusion of Inter–University Centres among beneficiaries of tax imposed under the TETFUND Act for improved training and research.

The proposed legislation titled, “Bill for an Act to Amend the Tertiary Education Trust Fund Act, No.16, 2011 to Provide for the Inclusion of Inter–University Centres among beneficiaries of the Tax Imposed under the Act; and for Related Matters HB.1754,” was sponsored by the Deputy Speaker Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu and eight others.

The inter-university centres in the country, include institutions such as - National Mathematical Centre (NMC), Abuja; National Institute for Nigerian Languages (NINLAN), Aba, Abia State; Nigerian French Language Village (NFLV), Badagry, Lagos State; and National Arabic Language Village, Ngala, Borno State.

Leading the debate on its general principles, one of the co-sponsors,

Hon. Tolani Shagaya, recalled the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) was established under the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (Establishment) Act, No.16 of 2011 to provide supplementary support for the general development of public tertiary institutions across the federation.

He noted the scheme has grown to become one of the most impactful institutional frameworks in the nation’s education sector through the improvement of infrastructure, provision of learning, instructional tools and equipment, training and re-training of both academic and non-academic staff, and fostering research and innovation in the nation’s public tertiary institutions.

The lawmaker however said that the Inter-University Centres, which are established by Acts of the National Assembly to serve all universities have been excluded from this support framework, despite the fact that they play a unique and indispensable role in advancing tertiary education across Nigeria.

for convenience. He belonged to a generation that believed in the eternal cause of freedom. He was a testament to conviction and principles.”

Oborevwori, who spoke on behalf of other governors in attendance, described Clark as fearless, vocal, bold, assertive, and unrelenting in speaking truth to power.

He added that Clark never remained silent in the face of abuse of power, corruption, or injustice.

The governor stated, “Pa Clark lived a fulfilled life and will be remembered for his legacy and

contributions to nation-building. He was a teacher, educator, politician, and astute public servant, an example of a life dedicated to service.

“He was the voice of the oppressed in Nigeria’s political space. We have lost a powerful voice in the Niger Delta. He fought for improved living conditions, food security, quality education, public safety, and accessible healthcare services.

“We must unite, particularly in the Niger Delta, to continue his legacy. I am glad our leader, former President Goodluck Jonathan, is here. We must

rally around him and remain united, because it is only through unity that we can achieve more for our people.

“When we allow division through personal sentiments, we will hinder progress. Our Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, is one of us. We will continue to support you because that is how we can succeed as a nation.

“May God bless Nigeria with more leaders like Chief Edwin Clark, and may his soul rest in eternal peace.”

Oborevwori, Diri, and Emmanuel Udom promised to construct a new

memorial church to replace the aging church, where the funeral service was conducted. They said this was to actualise an unfulfilled dream of Clark, who had vowed to build a state-of-the-art sanctuary in Kiagbodo community.

Archbishop of Bendel Province, Anglican Communion, Most Reverend Cyril Odutemu, delivered a poignant homily, referencing Proverbs 22:1, which says, “A good name is better than riches.” Odutemu lauded Clark’s virtues, calling him a champion of integrity

Police Re-arrest Ossai, Fleeing Killer of Anambra Assembly Lawmaker, Hon Azuka

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

Anambra State Police Command, has announced the re-arrest of a kidnap suspect linked to the death of a lawmaker in Anambra State, Hon Justice Azuka, who represented Onitsha South 1 state constituency.

Azuka was on Christmas eve, last year, abducted, but his remains was found around Second Nigeria Bridge, two months after.

His abductors were also arrested, but later two of them escaped after they were led to the home of another suspect.

The incident has caused an uproar, with many blaming the police of

sick’, Suswam expressed doubt as to whether the PDP could fully recover to face the 2027 general election, insisting that more defections would take place if the party failed to put its house in order.

His words: “For now, I would say that PDP is in the hospital. It’s in the ICU to some extent. Yes, it is. Can it be rescued? Yes, if the proper medicine is applied. It’s a 50-50 situation.

“This last effort, which is headed by Senator Saraki, if we are unable to address the issue, then of course it’s likely that you might not have PDP the way you have it now,” he argued.

“Senator Saraki is a very distinguished Nigerian. Of course, when it comes to character and integrity, you can count on him. And so I believe that people will listen to him. Whether some of them will believe him is a different kettle of fish.

“But then, he has an arduous task of reconciling people who are genuinely aggrieved. He has started the efforts and I believe that will yield results,” the former Benue state

complicity over the escape of the suspect.

But yesterday, the state command announced the re-arrest of one of the suspects.

The state police command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the suspect, Ikemefuna Ossai, was re-arrested after painstaking investigation and undercover job.

He said, “The Anambra State Police Command wishes to inform the public that its operatives have successfully rearrested one Ikemefuna Ossai, a suspect in the kidnapping and gruesome murder of the late Hon. Justice Azuka.

“This re-arrest followed a painstak-

governor added.

He lamented that the party had taken too long to fix its problems, stressing that it was a testament to the party’s lack of urgency in handling its challenges.

He explained: “It took PDP so long to convene a meeting to talk about these issues. And so people are asking the question, are these people serious? And I asked that question myself. PDP as a party, are we serious? I don’t think that we’re that serious.”

Suswam said even the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the party that is expected to hold soon is still in doubt, pointing out that the event has already been postponed up to five times.

“NEC of the party is a make or mar NEC. I would say that I don’t have much confidence in the NEC holding because it has been postponed for up to five times. And if the NEC holds, this NEC will make or mar PDP. For now, let’s hope that the efforts of this great Nigerian Senator, Saraki, will yield some result,” he said. Speaking further, he said, “A lot

ing and intelligence-led operation.

The suspect, who had previously escaped custody, was tracked across multiple states within Nigeria and even into a neighbouring West African country.

“He was eventually apprehended on 7th May 2025 in Asaba, Delta State. Upon sighting the operatives, the suspect attempted to escape arrest but was swiftly subdued and sustained a gunshot wound to the leg in the process.”

The command, he said, had briefed relevant stakeholders including the family of the late lawmaker and the leadership of the Anambra State House of Assembly.

of people are hanging on, waiting to see the ultimate end of this party,” with many members having lost hope and believing the party might not survive its current crisis.

On his part, George, a former Deputy National Chairman of the PDP, has stressed that although the party was not beyond redemption, the recent defection of key members was disgraceful.

Speaking, too, on Arise Television, George noted that those who were bent on killing the party because of their personal grievances, were dancing on the grave of the party’s founding fathers.

“I believe there’s always room for reconciliation, especially in a political setup. You don’t shut your doors and think all is not well. The essence of this is to ensure that you moderate the anger that has been exhibited on all sides.

“Because Nigerians are waiting, they are watching, and it’s a load of disgrace when I see some of the top-rated members of our party jumping ship. It doesn’t speak well of civilised behavior.

“During the engagement, the Commissioner of Police acknowledged and expressed regret over the operational lapses that led to the suspect’s earlier escape.

“Actionable intelligence obtained from the suspect is currently aiding ongoing operations. The command has intensified efforts to apprehend the remaining fugitive and dismantle the criminal network responsible for this heinous crime.

“The Anambra State Police Command reiterates its unwavering resolve to bring all perpetrators to justice and ensure the safety and security of Ndi Anambra,” the release read.

“But I’m happy that they have selected a few people who will meet (all) groups and be able to reconcile them, so that by the time we come to the next meeting on the 27th of this month, it will be seamless and be like before,” he posited. He however, reminded the Saraki committee to tell all the groups they would be meeting with that a “divided house will remain a defeated house,” and that, “because of their personal grievances, they should remember that they are still dancing on the graves of the founding fathers of our party and this party is not an enterprise of any individual.

On whether the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, was not being overly pampered by the party, George maintained that a party, like families, will always have all kinds of characters, but insisted that no one was above the party. “No individual is bigger than this party. This reconciliation committee will be the last gap before the next meeting,” he added.

Nigeria (WON),

Chapter, Dr. Agatha Onwuka; FCT Chairperson, WON, Dr. Nibhoje Udom; National Vice President, WON, Dr. Ngozi Nwanekezie; Immediate Past President, Dr. Adesuwa Ogli; FCT Vice Chairperson, Dr. Cynthia Okoro and the FCT Financial Secretary WON, Dr. Rosemary Edionwe, during the Association free eye care community outreach, held at Dogon Gada Community, Lokogoma in Àbuja recently...

Photo: ENOCK REUBEN

FIRST PARTNER FACTORY UNDER WHO H-TAP PROGRAMME IN SAGAMU...

L-R: Non-Executive Director, Codix Holding Company, Mr. Tobi Ogunjimi; Chairman of the Day, Otunba Tunji Lawal-Solarin; Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa; Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate; Executive Governor of Ogun State, H.E. Prince Dapo Abiodun; Executive Chairman/CEO, Codix Group, Mr. Sammy Ogunjimi; His wife, Mrs. Elizabeth Ogunjimi; Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland, HRM Oba (Dr.) Babatunde Adewale Ajayi; Executive Secretary/CEO, Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria, Dr. Rabiu Olowo; and WHO Country Representative for Nigeria, Dr. Walter Mulombo, at the inauguration of the Codix Bio Limited Factory, the first Partner Factory Under WHO H-TAP Programme in Sagamu, Ogun State… recently

Tinubu Greets Gov Adeleke at 65, Says He Has Created

Niche for Himself as Politician

Osun APC: Governor is a monumental failure

President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, extended warm felicitations to the Osun State Governor, Senator

Adeleke, on his 65th birthday on May 13. The President noted that the

Queen of the Commonwealth, actually came to Nigeria and participated in the CHOGM we hosted.

‘’That was the greatest indication that Nigeria had been accepted again, regardless of our past. We had been accepted by the international community: in Africa, in the Commonwealth, in the United Nations—everywhere.

Sule, I thanked you then. And on this occasion, I thank you once more for the great job you did.”

Continuing, the former president said,

‘’When Sule left and I left, he became a governor. But he didn’t let me leave him alone. I had to visit—and I did, in more than one location. And during those visits, he showed me what he was doing.

“We discussed not only issues of his state, but national issues—and even those related to his former foreign affairs role. As a result of those visits, I can say, without any shred of doubt, that Sule Lamido performed adequately as governor,’’ Obasanjo stated.

President Tinubu, who hailed Lamido as a bold, consistent, and principled politician whose personal journey mirrored the story of Nigeria’s democratic evolution, described the book as a significant contribution to Nigeria’s political literature and democratic discourse.

The president was represented by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.

“This is not merely the unveiling of a book, it is the celebration of a life defined by courage, consistency, and commitment to democratic ideals.

Alhaji Sule Lamido, though a staunch member of the political opposition and often a critic of the government, remains one of the strong pillars of Nigeria’s political evolution,” the president, who was the Grand Guest of the occasion, said.

Tinubu reaffirmed his belief in a democratic culture where the opposition was not an enmity but a contest of ideas, stressing that every citizen, regardless of party affiliation, has a seat at the table of national

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governor has created a niche for himself as a politician of reckoning, not only in Osun State but also across the country and beyond. In a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy,

discourse.

Describing the book’s decade-long development as a labour of resilience, he praised Lamido’s effort in preserving political memory and encouraged other political veterans to emulate this example by documenting their experiences for future generations.

“Being True to Myself,” he noted was fitting for a book that “aptly reflects the man Sule Lamido and his reputation as a principled and blunt politician and statesman. I will recommend this book to students, scholars, journalists, and fellow politicians, who will find it instructive for many years.”

Idris, who drew a parallel, noted that just like the author, President Tinubu was always true to himself and to the most important ideals of Nigeria, which were anchored on truth, justice, peace and shared prosperity.

He described the wealth of knowledge and experience of the author as an asset that ought to be shared with the world, adding it was heartwarming that he had gone ahead to publish a book.

Reflecting on the administration’s achievements as Nigeria approaches the 26th anniversary of the Fourth Republic and the second year of the Tinubu presidency, the minister admitted that the government’s ongoing reforms, though bold and sometimes painful, were beginning to yield positive macroeconomic outcomes.

“Are we saying that we are where we need to be and that there isn’t room for more work to be done?

Certainly not. What we are saying is simple: that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated uncommon audacity and vision to set Nigeria on the path of true growth and development.

“And, after a somewhat rocky start, owing to the toughness of the inevitable reforms, we are now entering an era of intended beneficial outcomes, underlined by macroeconomic stability,” he said.

On national security, he assured the people that the administration

Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu noted that Adeleke was first elected Senator representing Osun West Senatorial District in 2017, taking over from his late brother, Senator Isiaka Adeleke, before becoming governor in 2022.

Commending Adeleke, Tinubu noted that he had proven to be

was leaving no stone unturned in its efforts to protect the citizens and the nation’s territorial integrity from terrorist elements.

A former military head of state, General Abdulsalam Abubakar represented by former chairman of INEC, Prof. Attahiru Jega, described the book as courageous.

He said, “In this book by a person, who has virtually seen it all and done it all since the Second Republic. As a Member of the House of Representatives (1979–83), as a Chairman of a political party at the state level and Secretary at the national/federal level under the General Babangida Transition to Civil Rule Programme, and as a Foreign Minister and subsequently as a Governor in the Fourth Republic.

‘’Without preempting the book reviewer, I venture to say that in this book, Alhaji Sule Lamido has tried to say it all forthrightly and passionately.

‘’As good autobiographies are expected to do, he has given us, the readers, a rich personal account of his life, offering us a unique perspective on his background, experiences, challenges, triumphs, and post-factual reflections and analysis.

‘’Being True to Myself is full of insights and wisdom, as the author navigated his childhood memories, career path, life trajectory, and personal lessons from his private and public relations.

‘’Indeed, as the title suggests, in reading the book, Sule Lamido comes across as genuine, authentic, and honest in conveying his thoughts and feelings in a simple, though not simplistic, way—indeed, in being true to himself.’’

Lamido, he said, deserved commendation for the contributions to nation building, adding that, ‘’He made a courageous effort of putting pen to paper in the tedious process of producing a book worthy of the name, which adds remarkable value to our understanding of not only his background and experiences but also to our enriched understanding of the

pan-Nigerian in his way of life and governance philosophy, exemplified by his Yoruba and Igbo heritage. He prayed for more years, good health and God’s infinite mercies on the governor.

Meanwhile, the Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress

dynamics as well as the trials and tribulations of politics and governance in Nigeria.

‘’It is my hope that in the points of view it conveys, in the facts it presents—or that people may say misrepresents—in the controversies, if any, it may generate, Being True to Myself would inspire many other actors and activists in the Nigerian political and governance spaces to also write and publish more books, which would enable us as citizens to have a clearer understanding of what is the true nature and character of our politics and governance, what the key challenges are requiring serious attention, and how best to collectively apply our energies and resourcefulness to addressing these.

‘’We all have a role to play to forge unity and engender peaceful coexistence, and contribute to progress and development in our country, Nigeria. The better informed we are, the better the chances of our collective contribution towards sustainable socio-economic development in our country,” he stated.

Amaechi, in his comments recalled some of the pre-2015 events in the PDP.

‘’We, the governors, agreed to vote against President Goodluck Jonathan. It was a unanimous agreement as we reiterate this in every of our meetings

“But on the day of action, we the governors concerned defected to the All Progressives Congress, APC, but Sule Lamido because of the party man in him, did not defect. In the governors’ forum, we are called the two radicals, ‘’ Amaechi said.

Political heavyweights across party lines were among the guests, who gathered at the Nigerian Air force Conference Centre, Abuja, in honour of Lamido.

The guests included Former VicePresident, Namadi Sambo; Ex-National Security Adviser, Lt. General Aliyu Gusau; former Senate Presidents, Ayim Pius Ayim and Ken Nnamani and a former PDP National Chairman, who also reviewed the book, Dr. Iyiorchia Ayu, among others.

(APC) has congratulated Adeleke on his 65th birthday anniversary, cautioning him to sit up for the delivery of qualitative governance for the deprived people of the state.

In a statement in Osogbo yesterday by the Osun State APC Director of Media and Information, Kolawole Olabisi, the APC noted that, “It is quite unfortunate that since the Governor Adeleke-led administration was inaugurated over two years ago, there has been little or nothing for the residents of the state to have unfettered access to meaningful dividends of democracy.

“We wonder if the ‘Birthday Boy’ is not bothered that since he assumed the leadership of the state, the proverbial birds have not been crying like birds while the plight of the rats too have been in a state of inertia.”

“As a caring political party which has been constitutionally putting

your government on its toes in the overall interest of the people of Osun State, we celebrate today’s special day with you.

“It is our hope that as you added another year to your earthly journey today, it would form the basis for you to have a rethink and redirection of some of your policies that have become the albatross of your administration.

“We know that when you ruminate over your past records in the government since over two years ago, it would strike your mind that state governance indeed is not a tea party.

“As a party that is keenly interested in the development of the state, we would not hesitate to remind you that the end of your four-year tenure political leadership of the state is fast approaching, which should form your guide in the remaining part of your tenure.”

Olawepo-Hashim: Sule Lamido, a True Patriot And Man of Deep Convictions

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Former Presidential candidate, Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim had described the two-time former governor of Jigawa State, Alhaji Sule Lamido as a true Nigerian patriot and man of deep convictions.

According to a release issued on Tuesday evening by his Media office, Olawepo-Hashim spoke in Abuja at the public presentation of a new book by former Jigawa State Governor and ex-Minister of Foreign Affairs, Alhaji Sule Lamido.

In his tribute, OlawepoHashim, a long-time political associate of Lamido, described him as “a man of deep convictions, integrity, and a true patriot whose life reflects the ideals Nigeria desperately needs today.”

He emphasized that while wealth and status may fade, character remains the lasting hallmark of leadership.

His words: “Money will fade away, but character and integrity will remain.

“Sule Lamido embodies

these enduring values. He has remained true to his principles and to the nation.”

Recalling their decade-long relationship, Olawepo-Hashim offered rare insight into their shared political history.

According to him: “President Obasanjo said he met Lamido in 1999, but I have known him for over 30 years. We stood side by side during the struggle against military rule. On the day the PDP was founded, we drove together to Minna in his car—driven not by ambition, but by a shared vision for Nigeria.”

Olawepo-Hashim’s address resonated deeply with the audience, coming at a time when public trust in political leadership remains fragile as his remarks were not only a tribute to Lamido but a subtle critique of Nigeria’s current political culture.

He stated: “Nigeria needs this kind of example—leaders who are consistent, tested, and rooted in service. This is how we can chart a new and credible path forward”.

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

Ademola

L

Awoniyi Undergoes Emergency Surgery after Colliding with Goalpost

Super Eagles striker, Taiwo Awoniyi, has undergone emergency surgery following a collision with the post during Nottingham Forest’s Premier

League clash against Leicester City at the City Ground on Sunday. According to The Guardian UK, the operation was carried out on Monday

Adeyemi Gives Real Reason Why He Dumped Nigeria for Germany

Borussia Dortmund forward, Karim Adeyemi, has revealed the reason behind his decision to represent Germany over Nigeria at international level.

Born in Munich to a Nigerian father and Romanian mother, Adeyemi was eligible to play for the Super Eagles but chose to pledge allegiance to Germany.

Despite rooted in the Nigerian culture, his choice to play for the Germans has continued to raise questions among the Nigerian football community, even at home by his father.

“It’s a difficult question. I have to answer this to my father a lot of times,” Adeyemi told Oma Sports.

“It’s just like this, I have offers from Germany (Football Association), I had a good feeling there. And, at the end, I had to play for Germany. This is how easy it is.”

The 23-year-old, who rose to prominence with Red Bull Salzburg before sealing a move to Borussia

Dortmund, made his senior debut for Germany in 2021. Since then, he’s been regarded as one of the most promising young talents in German football.

Despite choosing Germany, Adeyemi has often spoken fondly of his Nigerian heritage — especially when it comes to food. In a viral moment following a Champions League match against Chelsea in 2023, the pacey winger credited part of his speed to a beloved Nigerian delicacy.

“I eat a lot of African food, but I have good genetics from my dad,” Adeyemi said to CBS. “It’s called fufu from Nigeria and also very good.”

Although Adeyemi not playing for another Nigeria is another growing competition the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) faces with another European country’s FA.

However, the Nigerian football body has managed to convince several dual-eligible players like Ademola Lookman, Joe Aribo, and Calvin Bassey to wear the green and white.

Arokodare Joins Amokachi, Ikpeba, Babayaro, Okpara, Onuachu’s Elite Club of Ebony Shoe Winners

Super Eagles forward, Tolu Arokodare, has been crowned the winner of the 2025 Ebony Shoe, awarded to the best player with African roots in Belgium’s Jupiler Pro League.

Arokodare becomes the sixth Nigerian player to win the award, following in the footsteps of Daniel Amokachi, Victor Ikpeba, Godwin Okpara, Celestine Babayaro and Paul Onuachu.

The 24-year-old KRC Genk striker succeeds Cercle Brugge’s Kevin Denkey and held off stiff competition from teammate Zakaria El Ouahdi, Union SG’s Noah Sadiki and Promise David, and Club Brugge midfielder Raphael Onyedika.

Arokodare’s stellar performances this season earned him the prestigious accolade.

Across all competitions, he has registered 22 goals and seven assists, underlining his importance to Genk’s attack.

His consistency and match-winning contributions proved decisive in securing the award.

Speaking to Sporza after receiving the trophy, Arokodare expressed pride in the recognition. “It’s a big pat on the back for me, a confirmation that I’ve played a special season. This is my award for those good performances,” he said.

Although Arokodare previously won the Striker of the Year award, he admitted the Ebony Shoe carries even more weight.

“Yes, this is definitely my biggest prize so far. Although I hope that even bigger prizes are coming,” he added.

Parallex Bank Empowers Young Athletes with N1m Each in Landmark CSR Initiative

In a bold demonstration of its commitment to youth empowerment and community development, Parallex Bank has awarded ₦1 million each to four exceptional young athletes from the 2024 U-15 Sport Competition held at Asaba. This groundbreaking initiative, held in collaboration with the Lagos State Sports Commission, marks a milestone in the bank’s efforts aimed at nurturing grassroots sports talent across Nigeria.

The awards were presented during a special ceremony on May 4, 2025 held at the Bank’s Head office at Victoria Island, Lagos, where Dr. Olufemi Bakre, MD/CEO of Parallex Bank, Mr. Lekan Fatodu, Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, and other Senior Executives, jointly handed over the prizes to the deserving winners.

The beneficiaries of the 1 million prize were Emmanuel Bright, winner of

the Tennis category; Akanbi Demilade and Kanu Chioma, champions in the Swimming category; and Akinwuwo Oladeji, who emerged victorious in the Deaf Athletics category.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Bakre described the gesture as part of Parallex Bank’s ongoing mission to drive societal progress through strategic youth-oriented initiatives.

“At Parallex Bank, we believe that investing in the youth is investing in the future. These athletes have shown remarkable discipline, skill, and determination—qualities we strongly support. We recognize the power of sports and education as transformative tools that play a vital role in inspiring young people to pursue excellence. We also commend the Director General and the Lagos State Sports Commission for their efforts in championing this impactful program.” he said.

night after medical scans revealed he sustained a serious abdominal injury. The incident occurred when Awoniyi, known for his powerful style of play, came sliding in at high speed and crashed into the post while attempting to connect with a cross.

Although Awoniyi was able to walk off the pitch on his own, further examinations revealed internal injuries serious enough to warrant immediate medical intervention.

Fortunately, the English newspaper has reported that Awoniyi is not in

any life-threatening condition.

However, the full extent of his recovery timeline remains uncertain.

Neither Nottingham Forest nor Awoniyi have released an official statement regarding the injury or the surgery.

All Eyes on Gateway State as NSF 2024 Kicks off

Kayode Akinmade

On Friday May 16, the 22nd edition of Nigeria’s premier sports tournament, the National Sports Festival (NSF), kicks off in Ogun State amid song and drum, and the spectra of a wide audience. Given the massive preparations, the state-of-the-art sporting infrastructure and the reinvention of historical monuments to give visitors to the state a great feel of its culture and traditions, and more importantly the avowed determination of the Dapo Abiodun administration to give Nigeria and indeed all of Africa a festival like no other, Ogun, the home of the best talent in Nigerian music (talk of the Abami Eda, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, Haruna Ishola, Ayinla Omowura, Ebenezer Obey, K1 the Ultimate, etc) and literature (Wole Soyinka, Femi Osofisan, etc), is bound to host Nigeria’s most exciting moments in the next two weeks. The stage is set and the performers are fully ready to thrill the audience like they (the audience) have never been treated. Ogun raw sporting talents, from athletics to boxing, and from volleyball to football, among others, are set to slug it out with talents from around the country, showing the rhythms of Nigeria’s sporting endowments, its rich culture, its incredibly diverse population, and its future.

Ogun 2025 is bound to be arguably the best sporting event in Sub-Saharan Africa in recent times. The opening

ceremony will be spectacular, comparable to what you find at the Olympics or FIFA -organised tournaments, and full of drama, colour, excitement. The Gateway State is hosting over 12000 athletes, and the accommodation arrangements are superb. And from its fabrics to its monuments and, of course, its unbeatable cuisine, visitors are going to have the best of Ogun State from May 16 to 30, marking the second time the state has staged the multi-sports fiesta after hosting the 2006 edition. No doubt, many great talents will emerge from the festival, joining the great names of previous tournaments. In the years gone by, many great Athletes rose from the

IGP Open

NSF to global stardom. To mention just a few of the names, there was the Queen of the Tracks, Mary Onyali, who was first discovered at the Kwara ’85 Games; Falilat Ogunkoya, who would go on from the NSF to become the first Nigerian woman to win an individual Olympics track medal (at the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games); Deji Aliu, a multiple-time African champion and World Cup medalist, and Chika Chukwumerije, the first person from Sub-Saharan Africa to win an Olympic medal in Taekwondo, and the first African Taekwondo athlete to compete at three Olympic Games. There was also Yusuf Alli, who represented Nigeria in 1980 at the Moscow Games, and

at the Los Angeles 1984 and Seoul 1988 Olympics games. Get behind the steering, or get on a bus to Abeokuta, and witness history live as new names emerge to cement Nigeria’s sports legacy…

Fittingly, the Ogun State Government is treating the games as the key to a revolution. As Governor Dapo Abiodun has been keen to stress, the 22nd NSFwill be more than just a sporting event; it will be a catalyst for establishing a vibrant sports economy in the state; a deliberate effort by his administration to build a robust sports economy, particularly through the upgrading of several sports facilities across the state.

Contenders Invitational Classic’ll Prepare Players Ahead of NSF, Says Peters

Tournament Director, IGP Open Contenders Invitational Classics, Oluwaseun Peters, yesterday said that the event was put together to help players prepare ahead of the coming National Sports Festival, NSF.

Peters said the three-day competition served off yesterday and will draw curtains on May 15 with no fewer than 28 players competing for honours.

“This is a well-timed event where the players would seize the opportunity

to fine tune their preparations ahead of the 22nd National Sports Festival to hold in Ogun State.

“So far so good we have seen classic competitive matchups amongst players and they are not relenting on their efforts to showcase their qualities.

“The matches so far have been very entertaining and and high tempo games recorded so far.

“It has also served well for young players to seize the moment to also

Eunisell Set for 2025 Boot Awards as Contenders Anticipate Final Showdown

As the 2024/2025 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season nears its thrilling conclusion, Eunisell Limited, Africa’s leading specialty chemicals and oil production solutions company, is proud to announce its readiness for the prestigious Eunisell Boot Awards.

This year’s event, scheduled for June in Lagos, marks a major milestone—a decade of Eunisell’s steadfast commitment to celebrating excellence and supporting domestic football development in Nigerian football.

The Eunisell Boot Award, is an

annual ceremony honouring the NPFL’s highest goal scorer, spotlighting individual brilliance and inspiring the next generation of football talent.

Since inception, the initiative has become one of the most respected individual accolades in Nigerian football.

With one match day to go this season, the race for the 2025 Eunisell Boot is intensifying.

Nasarawa United’s Anas Yusuf currently leads the race to grab the Eunisell Boots with 18 goals.

Yusuf took his tally to 18 goals in

Sunday’s 3-2 victory over Enyimba. The trio of Rabiu Ali (Kano Pillars) as well as the Abia Warriors’ duo of Anthony De Souza Ijoma and Sunday Megwo have 12 goals each.

Beyond the Boot Awards, Eunisell currently sponsors Abia Warriors, a prominent club in the NPFL, further demonstrating its active support for domestic football development and grassroots talent.

Ken Okeiyi, CEO of Eunisell, emphasized the company’s dedication to the sport and its role in uplifting communities.

prove their qualities while the professionals have done well to consolidate their superiority.

“We are proud of what we have seen so far and we just look forward to another wonderful moment in squash competition,” Peters said.

Similarly, C.S.P Charity Enebeli, the Police Sports Chairman said that she was happy with the level of competition so far.

“We have put the tournament together because we want to contribute to the development of squash among our youths. “We look forward to an exciting tournament where every player gives their best,” Enebeli said. Some of the participants said the competition is coming at a good time for them as they plan to go all the way to win their games and prepare mentally for the festivals.

Abdulrahman Ahmed ranked number 13 said he is looking forward to a great you event where he can perfect his strategy and win the men’s singles.

“I want to win the men singles so as to take that winning mentality to the festivals,” Ahmed said.

Similarly, Jadesola Olatunji said that she is excited to be in the competition and looking forward to doing well and reaching the women’s singles final.

The 27-year-old has seen his minutes reduced this season due to the form of 20-goal striker Chris Wood. Awoniyi has logged 399 minutes in the Premier League across 26 appearances, scoring just one goal.

Taiwo Awoniyi undergoes emergency surgery after goalpost collision

ChURCh FUnERAL SERViCE FoR pA CLARK...

Eric T ENIOLA

EST COL um NIST

Making Constitution in Hurry and Error

In promulgating decree 24 on May 5, 1999 as the 1999 Constitution, the then Head of State and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, General Abdusalam Alhaji Abubakar, GCFR, made an addendum to the decree. The addendum was not part of the decree it was just an explanation on the constitution. General Abdusalam declared in the addendum “WHEREAS the Federal Military Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in compliance with the Transition to Civil Rule (Political Programme) Decree 1998 has, through the Independent National Electoral Commission, conducted elections to the office of President and Vice-President, Governors and Deputy-Governors, Chairmen and Vice-Chairmen, the National Assembly, the Houses of Assembly and the local government councils; AND WHEREAS the Federal Military Government In furtherance of its commitment to hand over to a democratically elected civilian administration on 29th May 1999. inaugurated on 11th November 1998, the Constitutional Debate Co-ordinating Committee charged with responsibility to, among other things, pilot the debate on the new Constitution for Nigeria, co-ordinate and collate views and recommendations canvassed by individuals and groups for a new Constitution for Nigeria;

AND WHEREAS the Constitutional Debate Coordinating Committee benefitted from the receipt of large volumes of memoranda from Nigerians at home and abroad and oral presentations at the public hearings at the debate centres throughout the country and the conclusions arrived thereat and also at various seminars, workshops and conferences organised and was convinced that the general consensus of opinion of Nigerians is the desire to retain the provisions of the 1979 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria with some amendments; AND WHEREAS the Constitutional Debate Coordinating Committee has presented the report of its deliberations to the Provisional Ruling Council; AND WHEREAS the Provisional Ruling Council has approved the report subject to such amendments as are deemed necessary in the public interest and for the purpose of promoting the security, welfare and good governance and fostering the unity and progress of the people of Nigeria with a view to achieving its objective of handing over an enduring Constitution to the people of Nigeria; AND WHEREAS, it is necessary in accordance with the programme on transition to civil rule for the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1979 after necessary amendments and approval by the Provisional Ruling Council to be promulgated into a new Constitution for the Federal Republic of Nigeria in order to give the same force of law with effect” from 29th May 1999: NOW THEREFORE, THE FEDERAL MILITARY GOVERNMENT hereby decrees as follows:- (1) There shall be for Nigeria a Constitution which shall be as set out in the Schedule to this Decree. (2) The Constitution set out in the Schedule to this Decree shall come into force on 29th May 1999. (3) Whenever it may hereafter be necessary for the Constitution to be printed it shall be lawful for the Federal Government Printer to omit all parts of this Decree apart from the Schedule and the

Constitution as so printed shall have the force of law notwithstanding the omission, 2. This Decree may be cited as the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Promulgation) Decree 1999”.

You are free to form an opinion on the addendum. One thing is however clear, by the time we held the gubernatorial elections in the country on February 20, 1999 and the Presidential election on February 29, 1999, the new Constitution was not ready. By 1999, the 1979 Constitution suspended by Brigadier General Sani Abacha’s announcement on December 31, 1983, was still suspended. Likewise, the 1988 Constitution prepared by the Constituent Assembly headed by Justice Anthony Aniagolu(1922-2011) was not available. Also, the 1995 Constitution prepared by the Constituent Assembly headed by Justice Adolphus Karibi-Whyte (1932-2020) was also not ready. At the time the elections were held in Febru- ary 1999, the 1999 Constitution being prepared by Justice Niki Tobi (July 14, 1940 – June 19, 2016) was also not ready. In his wisdom, General Abdusalam Abubakar did not constitute a Constituent Assembly to give the country a new Constitution; he only relied on the Constitutional Debate Co-ordinating Committee headed by Justice Niki Tobi.

Justice Niki Tobi was born in Esanma, Bomadi LGA, in what is now Delta State. Prior to his career at the bench, he was the dean of Faculty of Law and deputy vice-chancellor (academic services), University of Maiduguri. He was appointed to the Supreme Court in 2002.

He was known for his legal erudition and wide knowledge of legal principles.

Justice Tobi made attempts before and after the elections to have an audience with General Abubakar through the then Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Alhaji Gidado Idris, GCON. He succeeded in seeing him twice.

Only General Abdusalam Abubakar GCFR (82) can explain better why he jettisoned the idea of a Constituent Assembly to give the country a new constitution. My understanding is that General Abubakar wanted to leave power at a short notice. He must have been jolted by the death of Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, GCFR, (24 August 1937 – 7 July 1998), acclaimed winner of the

1993 Presidential Election and the sudden death of the man he succeeded, General Sani Abacha, GCFR (20 September 1943- 8 June 1998) on June 8, 1998. In short, he wanted to retire to Minna in good health. Were he to be alive today, Justice Niki Tobi will be surprised that the 1999 constitution which his team prepared as draft is still in existence today although with some amendments. In my discussion with him at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, where I was posted from the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation as a member of the adhoc staff of the Constitutional Debate Co-ordinating Committee, he said several times that the draft will be subjected to many amendments by the Provisional Ruling Council.

Realising the numerous lapses in the Constitution, one of the first things President Olusegun Obasanjo GCFR did was to review the 1999 constitution by setting up a committee headed by Ambassador Yusuf Mamman. The Committee was inaugurated on 19th October, 1999 by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Kanu Agabi with the following terms of Reference: To co- ordinate and collate the views and recommendations from individuals and groups for a review of the Constitution, having regard to the need to maintain the corporate existence and unity of the nation; to identify and specify all anomalies, irregularities and defects inherent in the existing Constitution and make appropriate recommendations to correct such anomalies, irregularities; to make proposals for the review of the Constitution to ensure that it reflects the true experiences, wishes and aspirations of the people and suggest ways and means of making the Constitution an expression of the will of the people; and to address the lingering problems of power sharing between the Federal and State Governments and between States and Local Governments.

Other members of the committee were Chief Clement Ebri(Deputy Chairman), Alhaji Iro Abubakar Dan-Musa, Dr. Shettima Mustapha, Chief Yohanna Madaki, Chief Alani Bankole, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Barrister(Mrs) Iyabode Pam, Air C’dre Bernard Banfa (rtd), Mrs Ayoka Lawani, Hajiya Basirat A. Nahibi, Alhaji Isiaku Mohammed, Chief A.K. Horsfall, Chief Ayo Opadokun, Dr. J.C. Odunna, Barrister Mika Anache, Dr. Amos Adepoju, Dr, Silva Opusunju, Chief Barnabas Gemade, Alhaji Gambo Saleh, Dr. Arthur Nwankwo, Dr. Maxwell M. Gidado and Mrs M.V.I. Mbu. Shortly after inauguration, Chief Barnabas Gemade was replaced by Barrister Edward Ashiekaa.

Later, an adjustment to the Committee’s composition was made when Ambassador Yusuf Mamman, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Chief A.K. Horsfall, Mr. Ayo Opadokun, Mrs. Ayoka Lawani, Dr. Arthur Nwankwo and Chief Solomon Asemota, SAN were replaced by Dr. Stella O. Dorgu, Prince Valentine Ahams, Barrister Mohammed Babangida Umar, Alhaji Abdulhamid Hassan, Barrister Adeniyi Akintola, Barrister Sunday Kuku Iyakwo and Dr. Olu Agunloye.

Accordingly, the Committee undertook a 23-day nationwide visitation programme to hold public hearings on the Constitution Review Exercise in all State Capitals. In order to effectively but less strenuously cover the entire country within three weeks, the Committee broke into three (3) Tour Teams, with each team assigned to cover two

geo-political zones, one in the North and one in the South. Team “A” was led by Ambassador Yusuf Mamman with other members as follows: Air Cdre (rtd) Bernand Banfa, Mr. Ayo Opadokun, Dr. Shettima Mustapha, Barrister (Mrs) Iyabode Pam, Dr. J.C. Odunna Dr. Silva Opusunju, Colonel (rtd) Yohanna Madaki, Dr. Maxwell Gidado (Secretary), Barrister Johnson Ebokpo (Rapporteur) and Barrister Sajo Dahiru Bobo (Legal Assistant). Team “B” was led by Chief Clement Ebri.

The other members being the following: Alhaji Iro Dan Musa, Chief Albert Horsfall, Dr. Arthur Nwankwo, Dr. Amos Adepoju, Barrister Mika Anache, Hajiya Basirat A. Nahibi, Alhaji Gambo Moham- med Saleh, Dr. Maxwell Nduaguibe (Rapporteur) and Mr. Abdulmumuni Umar (Legal Assistant). Team “C” the third of the three Teams was led by Chief Edwin Ume-Ezeoke and with him were the following members:Barrister Edward Ashiekaa, Chief Alani Bankole, Alhaji Umaru Ahmed, Alhaji Isiaku Mohammed, Barrister (Mrs) Ayoka Lawani, Barrister (Mrs.) M.V.I. Mbu, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Barrister Samuel Dusu (Rapporteur) and Felix Olelewe (Legal Assistant).

The Tour commenced on Sunday 16th January, 2000 and ended on Wednesday 9th February, 2000 when the visitation programme for the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, was completed.

On completion of its nation-wide visitation programme, a delegation of the Committee travelled to the United States of America to attend a Seminar on the “Threat to Democracy in Nigeria” at Colin Powell Centre, New York, under the sponsorship of Ford Foundation. The lessons drawn at the seminar were revealing as they pointed out fresh approaches which would not only render the Committee’s work more thorough, but would also make the outcome of the Constitution Review Exercise more nationally and internationally acceptable. A new dimension therefore emerged with the offer of US$2 million technical/financial assistance from Ford Foundation to enable the Committee widen the scope and levels of consultations on its assignment thereby making it more participatory. Such an expansion in the Constitution Review process inevitably went far beyond the initial conception and financial projections of government when Mr. President constituted the Committee. The Ford Foundation support facility was therefore very timely.

As part of this financial assistance, the Ford Founda- tion also attached Consultant to the Committee at the Foundation’s expense but with the Committee providing him with only accommodation and local transportation. The Consultant, Professor Bereket Selassie, a Professor of Law and Politics at North Carolina University, USA, and one-time Chairman of the Eritrean Constitution Commission arrived soon after in Nigeria and assisted the Committee during some critical aspects of the Constitution Review Exercise.

I am happy that Chief Emeka Anyaoku’s committee of Patriots has resolved to give the country a better Constitution. They should be encouraged in all ways. We cannot deceive ourselves. This 1999 Constitution will lead us nowhere. Something must be done urgently. No matter how long we are implementing the provisions of the Constitution. It was made in a hurry and it was made in error.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio

L-R: Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, who represented President Ahmed Bola Tinubu; former President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife Patience Jonathan; Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori and his wife, Tobore Oborevwori, and Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Muhammed, at the funeral service of Pa Edwin Clark at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Kiagbodo, Burutu Local Government, Delta State …yesterday