Sadiq Khan Seeks to Boost Collaboration in Business, Tech With Nigeria
Buhari Buried in Blaze of Glory With Full Military Honours
Okonji
Sadiq Khan, yesterday in Lagos, promised the
The son of the late former President, Yusuf Buhari (L) and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in solemn moments by the body of
Kastina State … yesterday
Sadiq Khan
hEarT, allah GivETh,
President Tinubu consoling Yusuf Buhari, son of the late former President
Consular Services: Tinubu Directs Agencies to Ensure Strict Adherence to Nigeria’s International Obligations
Reiterates
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has directed all federal agencies to ensure full compliance with Nigeria’s international obligations.
Tinubu also charged the concerned agencies and parastatals to strengthen inter-governmental cooperation in authenticating the identities of individuals seeking consular services abroad.
Presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, disclosed the directive in a statement issued yesterday.
Onanuga stressed that the federal government also reiterated its unwavering commitment to maintaining and strengthening the longstanding and cordial diplomatic relations with the governments of the United States of America and the United Arab Emirates.
According to the statement, “The recent changes in visa issuance policies affecting Nigerian citizens by these two countries have received the attention of the Federal government.
“Relevant Nigerian Ministries, Departments and Agencies are actively engaging to ensure that
govt’s commitment to deepening diplomatic relations with US, UAE
the concerns raised are addressed through appropriate and constructive channels.
“The United States Government has officially communicated that its decision was based on two principal factors: the current rate of visa overstays by Nigerian nationals and the need for reliable access to their records.
“It further explained that the visa policy adjustment is part of its global visa reciprocity process, which is routinely reviewed and subject to change, including the number of permitted entries and validity durations.
“In response, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed all federal agencies to ensure full compliance with Nigeria’s international obligations and to strengthen inter-governmental cooperation in authenticating the identities of individuals seeking consular services abroad. The president calls on all Nigerians to respect the immigration regulations of their host countries and to uphold the integrity of the permits and privileges granted to them under the laws of those
jurisdictions.”
The statement also said, “Regarding the new conditions for issuing UAE transit visas to Nigerian nationals, the federal government notes that it has not received any formal communication from the UAE authorities regarding a revised visa policy. However, it is observed that
visa issuance is currently progressing in a gradual and orderly manner.
“The president appreciates the continued cooperation of the Government of the United Arab Emirates, which has remained constructive and engaged with Nigerian authorities. Any genuine concerns raised are being addressed
through the appropriate channels, in a spirit of mutual respect and collaboration.”
Onanuga stated, “The president assures all Nigerians that his administration will continue to pursue the best possible outcomes for citizens abroad, ensuring that Nigerians can travel, work, and live
with dignity and respect in any part of the world, in line with the Tinubu administration’s 4-D Foreign Policy agenda and its Diaspora plank.
“He reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to deepening Nigeria’s valued bilateral relations with the Governments of the United States and the United Arab Emirates.”
Samsung, Glo Unveil Exclusive Galaxy Z Fold 7, Flip 7 With Free Data for Customers
Digital solutions company, Globacom, has partnered with Samsung, a leading electronic device manufacturer, to offer an exclusive opportunity to Glo subscribers to pre-order the highly coveted Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 smartphones.
Those pre-ordering any of the sleek devices are also to get free 18GB data from Globacom as well as various gift items worth up to N1.2 million.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 series with advanced design,
camera capabilities, and AI integration, were jointly unveiled by the two companies at a masterclass session held at the corporate headquarters of Globacom, Victoria Island, Lagos, yesterday, at an event attended by high net-worth Glo customers, special guests, journalists and officials of the two companies.
According to a statement, the preordering of Fold 7 was regarded as the thinnest and lightest in the series to date, and the Flip 7, which features
a larger cover screen and enhanced FlexWindow usability with Galaxy AI, commenced immediately at the venue with several Glo subscribers ordering for the latest masterpiece from Samsung.
Speaking at the event, Samsung’s Head of Product Marketing, Stephen Okwarah, spoke on how Samsung has built a strong relationship with Globacom over time, as the telco has always given Samsung good numbers in terms of sales orders
UN Pledges to Nurture Diplomacy in Young Nigerians
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
The United Nations (UN) has reiterated its commitment to supporting young Nigerians imbibe diplomacy as skills to ensure a better future.
The commitment was made yesterday, by the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Mr. Mohamed Fall, in Abuja at the inaugural Premiere Academy International Model UN (PAIMUN) conference organised by the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) in Nigeria.
The conference, which is centered on commemorating the 80th anniversary since the founding
of the UN, seeks to promote peace, tolerance, diplomacy, and consensus-building amongst youths. Fall said while delivering a welcome address at the maiden Premiere Academy International Model UN (PAIMUN) that Nigeria has an undoubtedly commitment to the UN and its many goals.
He said: “Nigeria joined the UN shortly after gaining independence, and since then, it has been a key player. The Deputy SecretaryGeneral of the UN is from Nigeria.
“We must take the UN out of formal space like interaction with government, get young people and civil society involved, and because more than ever, UN goals and
ideals are needed.
“Let us not forget that the UN was established to prevent conflict, promote security, human dignity, and development, as well as provide assistance to the most vulnerable and leave no one behind.
“It is time for us to double down, reinforce them, and spread this message. What I have seen young people do in this regard is part of it, because the future is theirs.
“Getting them trained and knowing how UN functions, learn diplomacy, learn a tactful way of solving and a peaceful way of solving differences is critical in today’s world.”
He promised to improve on the
maiden edition of the conference beyond Abuja and a specific school, to accommodate the 36 states and all local government areas in the country.
He noted that the UN Charter started with people, and the people are not only the government, but also those who are hard to reach and most vulnerable.
Fall said: “It is everyone, those who are female, those who live with disability, and I think the notion of inclusion of the UN has found expression in this principle of we the people.
“Young people need to understand that the future is theirs.
Today’s and tomorrow’s shape has
to be done by them. It is their call.
“The same way the generation of those who came out of the Second World War created the UN for building peace and security. It is their time and their call to take the challenge of today.
“The challenges today are conflict, insecurity, climate-related shock, poverty, and inequality, they have to take it, and that is my appeal to all young people,” Fall advised.
The Principal of Premier Academy, Mr. Christopher Akinsowon, on his part, commended the conference for helping the students to better understand the operation of the UN General Assembly.
from subscribers.
He also explained the huge benefits and amazing features of the new devices for the benefits of those who want to upgrade their current phones or who want to switch to the new devices.
Earlier, Globacom’s Head of Division (West), Abdulrazaq Ande, noted that the two devices “represent the cutting edge of mobile innovation, adding that Globacom is “proud to make them available exclusively at Glo retail outlets across Nigeria.” He also noted that the partnership with Samsung to launch the devices, “also reflects our broader commitment to innovation. With our fiber-optic expansion, and smart solutions for homes and businesses, Globacom is building the future of digital life in Nigeria — and we’re doing it with world-class partners.” He encouraged discerning phone enthusiasts to visit any Gloworld outlet and pre-order the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 series to take advantage of the offer.
Some of the high net-worth individuals who have already pre-ordered the phones, picked up various gift items in a lucky dip at the event. The star gift of the day was a 55 inch Samsung QLED Television set, which was won by Idowu Emmanuel, a telecoms products dealer in Lagos.
Imo Talent Hub Partners University of California to Train 100,000 Youths on Digital Skills
Imo State has launched ImoTalentHub.com, the first of its kind digital talent marketplace in Africa.
The platform connects the state’s rapidly growing ranks of software engineers, data scientists and designers with employers in Lagos, London, Dubai, Silicon Valley and other innovation hubs worldwide.
Anchored in the government’s
Skill Up Imo initiative and built in partnership with the University of California, Berkeley, and the US Market Access Centre, the platform is set to place 100,000 Imo-trained technology professionals in paid global roles by 2026.
Skill Up Imo is the ambitious programme launched by Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State to move the state from analogue thinking to a fully digital economy
and steer young people away from cultism and internet fraud.
Introduced in 2022, the initiative has already graduated more than 40 000 learners through intensive courses in software development, artificial intelligence, cyber security and user experience design, creating one of Nigeria’s largest and most capable talent pools.
ImoTalentHub now turns that classroom success into real
employment by giving every graduate a verified profile, a portfolio showcase and access to one click smart contracts that manage KYC checks, escrow payments and tax compliance.
A fintech company in Shoreditch can therefore hire a back-end engineer in Owerri as quickly and securely as it might recruit in London, paying in pounds or dollars through fully regulated
Apple Inks $500 Million Rare Earth Magnet Deal to Return Supply to US
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Apple has signed a $500-million deal with Pentagon-backed MP Materials for a supply of rare earth magnets, becoming one of the first tech companies to ink a U.S. supply agreement after China curbed exports earlier this year.
The move reflects strong backing for Las Vegas-backed MP by one of the world’s most-valuable companies, coming just days after the U.S. government said it would become MP’s largest shareholder.
Both mark an amazing about-face for MP after it contemplated merging, opens new tab with an Australian rival last year just to survive.
U.S. stocks ended mixed on Tuesday with the Dow dropping about 1 per cent, the S&P 500 shedding four-tenths of a percent,
but the Nasdaq ticked up nearly two-tenths of a percent.
MP shares jumped 21 per cent in Tuesday trading to a record high, while Apple’s stock gained under 1 per cent.
The deal, announced yesterday , guarantees Apple a steady flow of rare earths and magnets free from China - the world’s largest producer. For Apple, the cost to support U.S. magnet production paled in comparison to the longterm risk that it could lose access entirely to the critical components, analysts said.
MP last week agreed to a multibillion-dollar deal with the U.S. Department of Defense that will see the Pentagon become MP’s largest shareholder and financial backstop.
“Any time you have government
ownership, that’s a huge vote of confidence,” said Gracelin Baskaran, director of the critical minerals security program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.
“We’re in an era where executives are willing to pay a significant premium for a reliable supply chain. They don’t want stoppage,” Baskaran said.
Neither the precise length of the deal nor the specific volumes of magnets to be supplied was provided, although the agreement does call for magnets produced from recycled material, in keeping with Apple’s long-standing goal of ending its reliance on the mining industry.
Rare earths are a group of 17 metals used to make magnets that turn power into motion, including the devices that make cell phones vibrate. They are also used to make
Trump Makes U-turn, Arms Ukraine, Threatens Sanctions on Russian Oil Buyers
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
United States President, Donald Trump, has announced new weapons for Ukraine, and threatened sanctions on buyers of Russian exports unless the country agrees to a peace deal, a major policy shift brought on by frustration with Moscow’s ongoing attacks on its neighbour.
But Trump’s threat of sanctions came with a 50-day grace period, a move that was welcomed by investors in Russia where the rouble recovered from earlier losses and stock markets rose, Reuters reported. Sitting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in the Oval Office, Trump told reporters he was disappointed in Russian President
Vladimir Putin and that billions of dollars of US weapons would go to Ukraine.
“We’re going to make top-of-theline weapons, and they’ll be sent to NATO,” Trump said, adding that Washington’s NATO allies would pay for them. The weapons would include Patriot air defence missiles Ukraine has urgently sought.
“It’s a full complement with the batteries,” Trump said. “We’re going to have some come very soon, within days... a couple of the countries that have Patriots are going to swap over and will replace the Patriots with the ones they have,” he added.
Some or all of 17 Patriot batteries ordered by other countries could be sent to Ukraine “very quickly”,
he said.
Trump’s threat to impose so-called secondary sanctions on Russia, if carried out, would be a major shift in Western sanctions policy. Lawmakers from both US political parties are pushing for a bill that would authorise such measures, targeting other countries that buy Russian oil. Throughout the more than three-year-old war, Western countries have cut most of their own financial ties to Moscow, but have held back from taking steps that would restrict Russia from selling its oil elsewhere. That has allowed Moscow to continue earning hundreds of billions of dollars from shipping oil to buyers such as China and India.
weapons, electric vehicles, and many other electronics.
China halted exports in March following a trade spat with U.S. President Donald Trump that showed some signs of easing late last month, even as broader tensions underscored demand for non-Chinese supply.
As part of the agreement, Apple will prepay MP Materials $200 million for a supply of magnets slated to begin in 2027. The magnets will be produced at MP’s Fort Worth, Texas, facility using magnets recycled at MP’s Mountain Pass, California, mining complex, the companies said.
“Rare earth materials are essential for making advanced technology, and this partnership will help strengthen the supply of these vital materials here in the United States,” Apple CEO Tim Cook said in a statement.
channels and proving that Imo’s digital youth are ready to compete on the world stage.
The intellectual power behind the curriculum comes from the Sutardja Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology at UC Berkeley. Berkeley professors have led boot camps on venture funding and ethical AI, helped equip cloud laboratories powered by NVIDIA GPUs at the new Imo Digital City campus and are creating a Founder Development Programme that offers venture-capital access alongside Berkeley certification.
Graduates emerge with practical, enterprise-ready skills and an immediate pathway into Imo’s start-up pipeline.
“By partnering with the University of California and the US Market Access Centre we are giving our young people the skills, networks and confidence to launch world-class start-ups right here in Owerri.
“Our goal is to empower 300,000 residents over the next five years and link Imo’s tech ecosystem to global markets,” Uzodimma said.
Commissioner for Digital Economy and E-Government, Dr. Chimezie Amadi said data generated by the hub would inform smarter policy, stimulate foreign earnings and demonstrate Nigeria’s capacity to export high-value knowledge at scale.
Managing Director of the US Market Access Centre, Chris Burry, said: “We see in Imo the talent and determination that built Silicon
Valley. Working alongside UC Berkeley and the state government, we will mentor the next generation of founders who can deliver solutions for Nigeria, Africa and the wider world.”
ImoTalentHub offers AI-driven search across different stacks and is gradually rolling out contracting with escrow protection, real-time earnings dashboards, an employer API for bulk recruitment and a community space for mentoring and collaborative projects.
The state publishes anonymised hiring and earnings data, giving investors and development partners a transparent measure of impact.
Officials project that ImoTalentHub will lift youth employment, increase foreign remittances and pull the diaspora back into active participation.
Global employers that struggle to find software talent now gain a pipeline of Berkeley certified engineers and data scientists who combine world class practice with competitive Nigerian rates. Local companies based in Owerri and other Imo cities can partner with the government through sponsored apprenticeships and joint laboratories, while firms elsewhere in Nigeria and across Africa can open remote teams on the platform and tap the same talent without relocation costs.
Indigenes of Imo living in London, Houston or Johannesburg are invited to register as hiring partners, mentors or angel investors, ensuring that the State’s success story remains a true community project.
Nduka-Eze Proposes Museum to Immortalise 1967 Asaba Massacre Victims
Legal luminary and Isama Ajie Ahaba, Chief Chuck Chukwuemeka Nduka-Eze, has said that a privately sponsored museum would serve as worthy monument to the memory of hundreds of victims of the 1967 massacre of Asaba people during the Nigerian Civil War.
Nduka-Eze, who made the solemn pledge at the weekend, while revalidating his oath of allegiance to the Asagba of Asaba, HRM Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, the Asagba-in-Council and the Asaba community, also reaffirmed his commitment to progress and overall development of the Asaba traditional domain and people.
The Isama Ajie Ahaba appealed to the Asagba for a space within the
ongoing permanent palace ground for the building of a museum, which will serve not only as cultural historical monument but to further serve as a memoriam to the victims of infamous 1967 Asaba Massacre during early the early stages of Nigerian Civil War.
He underscored the need to constantly remind Nigeria and the whole world about the injustice of the genocidal killings of over one thousand Asaba indigenes, who were mostly men, by federal troops marching through Asaba, adding that “such occurrence caused by ethnic intolerance should be guided against in Nigeria and all over the world”.
He described Asagba Azinge as a global legal icon and astute administrator who has become a
“highly esteemed and influential traditional ruler every Asaba Indigene would love to identify with for advancement of Asaba, Delta State’s administrative centre. He said that he felt highly honoured to able to work closely with such a revered monarch with remarkable strength of character, describing the oath of allegiance reaffirmation as “a two-way confidence vote which should by no means be taken for granted”.
The Isama Ajie pointed out that his allegiance to Asagba Azinge was never in doubt, having known and associated closely with the international scholar and legal icon for decades preceding his ascension to the throne, regularly delivering effectively on assigned responsibilities locally, nationally and internationally.
Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba
Emma Okonji
L-R: Sorghum Farmer, Malam Abubakar Kabiru; International Breweries Plc (IBPLC) People Director, Mrs Esther Ezenwoko; Sorghum Farmer, Mr Babatunde Oyegoke, and IBPLC Corporate Affairs and Regulatory Director, Mrs Temitope Oguntokun, at the “Cheers to Farmers” Stakeholder Symposium by International Breweries Plc (IBPLC), as part of the 2025 Growers Day events in Lagos....recently
GLO-SAMSUNG PARTNERSHIP...
NMDPRA Moves to Strengthen Oversight Function,
Engages Oil Industry Legal Advisers
House says PIA has attracted $16bn investment commitments through PIA
The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has moved to strengthen its regulatory function, stressing that the industry requires a unified compliance culture rooted in robust and enabling legal framework, transparency, accountability, and shared responsibility.
Speaking in Abuja at the opening of a two-day General Counsel and Legal Advisers Forum for Midstream and Downstream Companies, the Authority Chief Executive (ACE), Farouk Ahmed, noted that the role of legal practitioners remains critical across the mainstream and downstream energy business value chain.
Ahmed stated that they help in the promotion of optimal regulatory compliance to all set rules and standards of operations in the sector’s complex operational and volatile market environments, hence the need for the engagement.
The forum is a flagship industry engagement initiative of the NMDPRA designed to engage directly with chief legal officers, general counsel, and in-house legal teams of licensed operators.
It serves as a strategic platform for regulatory dialogue, policy clarification, and collaborative problem-solving between the Authority and the legal leadership responsible for ensuring compliance and guiding operational decisions within midstream and down-
stream petroleum businesses.
Ahmed, who was represented by the Executive Director of Distribution Systems, Storage and Retailing Infrastructure (DSSRI), Ogbugo Ukoha, stated that the meeting reflected the Authority’s commitment to fostering a culture where compliance is driven not just by enforcement, but by shared values, open dialogue, and proactive alignment between regulatory expectations and operational realities.
The NMDPRA chief executive noted that the Authority believes that sustained engagement at that level was vital for building trust, improving regulatory clarity, and reinforcing the legal foundations of a transparent, accountable, and investor-friendly petroleum Industry.
He added that the event was necessary as a result of the feedback received from stakeholders on the need to strengthen regulatory compliance through simplified and clearer regulations for the mainstream and downstream operations.
Ahmed stressed that the NMDPRA is implementing an inclusive stakeholder process of streamlined, legislated, and published regulations to mitigate the complexities of navigating and implementing numerous regulations and eliminating inconsistencies and repetitions across multiple regulations.
Besides, he stated that the forum seeks to streamline regulatory processes for ease of doing business as well as encourage investments in the midstream and downstream petroleum industry.
He urged the forum to critically review and make recommendations to enable the NMDPRA to improve the overall compliance of operators on the performance of the regulatory instruments, legal frameworks, and licenses in the midstream and downstream sector.
“When we issue regulatory instruments, we require effective compliance. It is compliance with external provisions of the law that allows continuity of operations and the grant or renewal of licenses. We enforce compliance to ensure that operations are concluded
safely, the environment and consumers are protected, and fair play is observed in the industry.
“It is evident that effective compliance is a result of effective collaboration. Collaboration allows for the development of enforceable regulations, best industry practices, and synergy between the multiple stakeholders in the industry, including other regulatory agencies and international institutions.
“The NMDPRA has diligently upheld this collaborative approach in all its regulatory activities, and we
are proud to assert that our regulatory provisions are very much inclusive, sustainable, and world-class,” Ahmed added.
Also speaking, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, emphasised that the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), has fundamentally shaped Nigeria’s petroleum sector, underscoring how strategic legislation can serve as a potent catalyst for compliance, investment attraction, and oil sector growth.
“Two years post-enactment, the impact of the PIA is undeniable. We
have witnessed an astonishing $16 billion investment commitments. These are not just numbers. “They represent jobs, infrastructure, and a renewed sense of purpose for our nation’s most vital economic engine. At this point, the PIA 2021 has established a robust legal framework that has dramatically enhanced regulatory compliance across Nigeria’s petroleum sector. Before the PIA, we operated under a fragmented regulatory structure, a cycle of overlapping mandates that hindered efficiency and accountability.
NSE Confers Fellowship on 261 Engineers, Warns against Unethical Practices
The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has conferred its fellowship on 261 distinguished engineers, charging the newly inducted fellows to uphold ethical standards, promote Nigerian content, and contribute meaningfully to national development.
Speaking at the ceremony for the new conferees in Abuja, the National President of the society, Margaret Oguntala, said the occasion served as a platform to celebrate
SPE to Champion Tech-driven, Inclusive Energy Future at NAICE 2025
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Nigeria Council has announced its flagship 48th Nigeria Annual International Conference and Exhibition (NAICE) under the theme: “Building a Sustainable Energy Future: Leveraging Technology, Supply Chain, Human Resources, and Policy”. NAICE 2025 will take place at Eko Hotels & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, from 4 to 6 August 2025. The event will convene leading voices from across Nigeria’s energy sector to tackle the challenges and opportunities of a sustainable, inclusive and resilient energy transition, a statement from the organisation said.
“This year’s theme is a call to action: to integrate innovation with policy, digital talent with real-world challenges, and global best practice with local ingenuity, ensuring Nigeria remains at the forefront of the energy transition,” said the Chairperson, SPE Nigeria Council, Engr Amina Danmadami. At this year’s conference, industry leaders will demonstrate how Artificial Intelligence (AI), data analytics, and digital twins will drive emerging technologies, operational efficiency, environmental stewardship, and cost optimisation, creating safer, more agile projects across the energy value chain.
As the conference unfolds, attendees will have the opportunity to engage in discussions and
workshops aimed at enhancing collaboration among stakeholders. This collective effort is crucial for navigating the complexities of the energy landscape and harnessing innovative solutions that can lead to sustainable growth in Nigeria’s energy sector. Another key pillar, the statement said, is the localisation of the energy supply chain: by strengthening domestic manufacturing, logistics, and service delivery, the statement added. Nigeria, it said, can reduce dependency on foreign inputs and create skilled jobs, with sessions set to explore how empowering local businesses and promoting indigenous technology development are vital to a sustainable energy economy.
professional excellence, character, and commitment to the advancement of engineering in Nigeria.
According to her, the honour comes with a profound obligation to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethics, noting that their actions and contributions will reflect not only their personal integrity but also the values of the NSE.
Oguntala emphasised that the fellowship is not just a title, but a trust, noting that the society reserves the right to withdraw the title from any member found guilty of misconduct or practices that tarnish the image of the profession.
She further encouraged the new fellows to be role models to younger engineers and to serve as champions of innovation, integrity, and national development.
“Infrastructure, energy, healthcare, ICT, agriculture these are areas where engineers must lead. Our country is at a defining moment, and the expertise of Nigerian engineers is crucial to solving persistent developmental challenges,” she said.
She highlighted NSE’s collaborations with government agencies and private institutions to support public service delivery in sectors such as agriculture, vocational education, and digital transformation.
Oguntala noted that their elevation was a recognition of their outstanding professional accomplishments and commitment to the advancement of engineering and, by implication, the technological development of Nigeria.
Explaining that Nigeria has continued to face persistent challenges that require innovative, practical
and technically sound solutions, Oguntala said the expertise of engineers was indispensable in supporting government initiatives, especially in provision of critical infrastructure in key sectors such as energy, transportation, housing and public works.
“To these ends, the Nigerian Society of Engineers has entered into strong collaborative agreements with key players in both the public and private sectors, with the aim to engender beneficial impacts to the Nigerian citizenry in areas such as agricultural entrepreneurship, vocational education, ICT/digital innovations, to name a few.
“These collaborations stem from our strong conviction that crosssectoral partnerships are essential to overcoming the complex issues facing our systems today.
Aviation Expert: $300 Helicopter Landing Levy Introduced to Develop Infrastructure
Kasim Sumaina in Abuja
The newly introduced $300 helicopter landing levy by the federal government will develop aviation infrastructure that will aid air navigation purposes and operations, an aviation expert, Mr. Tai Ejibunu, has said. Ejibunu, a former Director, Air Transport Management, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, in a statement in Abuja on Tuesday, said the levy was aimed
at strengthening Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure.
He added the regulatory framework was also designed to fund critical air navigation services provided by the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), including radar surveillance, communication systems, and air traffic control services.
The initiative, which was initially met with resistance by the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), international oil companies
(IOCs) and the operators of floating production storage and offloading (FPSO), has garnered support from the industry stakeholders after extensive consultations and a ministerial review.
The helicopter landing levy was recently imposed on helicopter landing at oil rigs. According to Ejibunu, the services the levy would address are indispensable for helicopter operations, especially in offshore oil and gas zones.
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
L-R: Head, Gloworld Sales, Globacom, Oghenemaro Ugoje; General Manager, Research & Business Development, Hogg Robinson Nig. Ltd., Abdullateef Awolaja; Head of Division, West, Globacom, Abdulrazaq Ande; Group Head, Mobile Experience, Samsung Electronics, West Africa, Joy Tim-Ayoola, and Consumer Insight Manager, Globacoma, Damilola Oronti, at a masterclass session held to unveil the Samsung Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 smartphones at the corporate headquarters of Globacom, Victoria Island, Lagos, ... yesterday.
Bu HA r I Bur I e D I n Bl A ze of g lor Y W ITH f ull M I l ITA r Y Honour S
Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha in Abuja, Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa, Francis Sardauna in Katsina and Dike Onwuamaeze in Lagos
Two days after he passed away at a London clinic, ex-President Muhammadu Buhari was yesterday buried in a blaze of glory with full military honours at his favourite spot, where he normally held court at his Daura residence in Katsina State.
President Bola Tinubu personally received the remains of his predecessor, as part of the final rites of honour, at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport, Katsina. He led other dignitaries to the sleepy town to pay their last respects to the late former Nigerian leader.
The President spared no expense and personally participated in the activities to honour the late president, creating a new presidential precedent.
Just as the family of late former President Shehu Shagari have complained that Buhari got the honour he did not accord Shehu Shagari who died in 2018 when he Buhari was President.
Buhari merely sent his then Secretary to Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha to lead a Federal Government’s delegation to Shagari’s burial while he stayed back in Abuja.
In the United States of America, where Nigeria copied its presidential system from, the passing of a former president is usually a big and solemn ceremony - where all living former presidents across party lines gather in unity to honour the departed.
With the precedent now set, other former presidents can now hope to be accorded similar honour when they pass on. It’s all about the institution of the presidency.
The Shagari family commended
President Tinubu for setting a new precedent on how to honour a former President who passes on.
However, according to a release by presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu arrived at the airport from Abuja at 1:42pm and inspected a guard of honour, before the Nigerian Air Force One plane conveying the remains of his predecessor landed at 1:51pm.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, Buhari’s wife, Aisha, and other family members accompanied Buhari’s remains to Nigeria. Tinubu, along Shettima, President Umaru Sissoco Embaló of GuineaBissau, Prime Minister of Niger, Ali Lamine Zeine, former President of Niger, Issoufou Mahamadou, and former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, received the casket of the late president at the foot of the aircraft.
A joint team of military pallbearers comprising nine senior officers laid the casket, draped in the Nigerian flag, on a trolley.
The team included Major-General Mohammed Usman, Major-General Oluwafemi Williams, Major-General Shuaibu Nuhu, Rear Admiral Suleiman Dahun, Rear Admiral Jonathan Ajodo, Rear Admiral Samuel Ngatuwa, Air Vice Marshal Adeniyi Herbert Amesinlola, Air Vice Marshal Idi Sanni, and Air Vice Marshal Obinna Obiabaka. Major-General Mike Alechenu coordinated the team.
Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, was on the ground to receive the guests of the state. First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, also attended the burial ceremony, having joined them at the airport.
Minister of information, Muhammad Idris, and Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu, were also in Katsina for
the funeral.
Dignitaries who came to Daura for the event included Vice President Atiku Abubakar; former Ogun State governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun (who was said to have decided the burial spot); and former Attorney- General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami. Several state governors were in Daura to honour the former president. They included Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, Lagos State Governor, and Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
Equally there to pay their last respects to Buhari were former transport minister, Chibuike Amaechi; former Borno State Governor, Ali Modu Sheriff; former Zamfara State Governor, Abdul-Aziz Yari; and former Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal, among several others.
The pallbearers wheeled the former leader’s casket in a slow march, in sync with the hymn “God Be With You Till We Meet Again,” passing through a full military guard of honour comprising six officers and 96 soldiers drawn from the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Tinubu and others walked behind the casket trolley in a solemn procession. The pallbearers escorted the casket into a waiting military hearse for the one-hour journey to Daura, for the final burial.
On arrival in Daura, Buhari’s corpse was taken to his residence, amid tight security, where top government officials and his close relatives paid growing tributes. Thereafter, his remains were conveyed to a mini helipad located a few meters away from his residence for funeral rites in accordance with Islamic injunction about 4:34pm.
The state funeral featured full military honours, including a 21-gun salute.
S ADI q K HA n See KS T o Boo ST Coll AB or ATI on I n Bu SI ne SS , Te CH W ITH nI ger IA
According to him, the trade mission presents a unique opportunity for London and Lagos fintech, enterprise, and sustainability companies to explore joint initiatives in areas, such as technology, financial services, and skills that will help build lasting partnerships that benefit communities across Nigerian cities.
Speaking at a panel session moderated by Founder of Beyond Limits, Dr. Juliet Ehimuan, the London mayor said, “We came with a delegation of 26 of the finest businesses in London, some in sustainability and some in fintech. We’ve come as patrons; we’ve come as partners. The tech capital of Europe is London.
“The tech capital of Africa is Nigeria. When I see the number of unicorns now in Africa, the vast majority of which are based in Nigeria, we think about London that has more than 120 unicorns, and we have come
to partner with Nigerian unicorns and businesses to expand their growth opportunities.
“We’re looking forward to creating wealth, great prosperity, creating jobs, and meet more businesses that will inspire the next generation of Nigerians and Londoners to do great things.”
When asked how London intended to position itself as a preferred partner for Africa’s rapidly growing cities, the mayor said London would create the facilities and the enabling environment that would make businesses in Nigeria and Africa to come to London, instead of going to other places, like Paris, New York, Singapore or Hong Kong. He stressed that over 120 African companies were listed on the London Stock Exchange.
Equally speaking at the panel session, Founding Partner, Future Africa, Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, said, “The biggest opportunity or partnership
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For him, being seemingly hard on the family while in office was a deliberate choice to insulate them from the culture of corruption in the corridors of power and as much protect his own hard-built reputation, which had thrived on his disdain for sleaze.
My love and respect for President Buhari have remained abiding over the years, even though our relationship has had its own test of time. As a Yoruba man, one imbued with decency and thorough upbringing; one who can distinguish between good and evil and between right and wrong, it is ungodly to pay good with evil. Buhari was very good to me.
The circumstances under which my path and his crossed and how he risked everything to stand by me, even if that was all he ever did, will never be obliterated from my memory and it remains something I’d hold dear till I breathe my last. Although I have reserved some of these stories and more for my memoire.
Behind his steely exterior is a smile of peace; a heart of gold; a milk of kindness, and a passion for the poor. Even with
his straight and serious stare, only a few comedians could compete with his huge sense of humour. He was simple in every sense of the word, and this was reflected in his everyday life.
Doing a quick run of his programmes in my head for eight years, I could not but conclude that posterity would be very kind and generous to him, his inadequacies notwithstanding. From his infrastructure renewal to enabling policies and measured leadership, particularly in times of crisis, Buhari has finished his own race, and he finished well. For us, in Ogun State, we will remain eternally grateful to him for his kindness to us, including the many infrastructure upgrades and renewals conceded to the state. I can also say the same for the South West as a geo-political zone. He was pro-development, national growth, unity, and one Nigeria. His approach might be different. His goal remained the same throughout his reign for the collective good, and even as a private citizen, As I conclude these reminiscences of some of the quick takes about a man, who meant a lot
Immediately after the funeral prayers, led by Imam Hassan Yusuf, the corpse of the former Nigerian president, flanked by an unprecedented crowd, was taken to his compound for final interment at 5:15pm.
Thousands of mourners within and outside Nigeria attended the funeral of the former president.
The mourners, dressed in multicoloured traditional robes, sat quietly under the shade of trees outside the late president’s residence under the watch of armed police officers and soldiers.
THISDAY observed that many businesses and shops were shut and side roads were clogged with vehicles along the Daura-Mai’Adua road.
Meanwhile, tributes continued to pour in from across the country and beyond for Buhari, who passed away in London at 82 after a protracted illness.
Atiku: Buhari ‘One of Nigeria’s Towering Sons’
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar paid a moving tribute to the late President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as “one of Nigeria’s towering sons” and a leader who bore the weight of national service with unwavering determination.
In a personally signed statement released on the day of Buhari’s burial in Daura, Atiku said the former president’s passing “has cast a long shadow across the land, stirring reflections on legacy, sacrifice, and the fleeting nature of power”.
Atiku added, “It is an honour to be present in Daura, to stand shoulder to shoulder with his family, his kinsmen, and the Nigerian people as we commit him to Mother Earth.”
Reflecting on their political rivalry, Atiku stated that while he and Buhari often stood on “opposite shores of the political river,” death reminded all that what ultimately endured was shared humanity.
that the Londoners really share is the melting pots for incredible talent.”
According to him, some of the most incredible talents from across the African continent get their first start in Lagos. He said Nigeria had a fantastic partnership with the Global Talent Programme.
In his opening remarks, Lagos State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Olatunbosun Alake, said London remained one of the world’s top financial and innovative hubs, boasting deep capital, and rich legal framework, and a global mind-set.
Alake said, “The partnership between Lagos and London will shape the next chapter of global technology. It’s about inclusive digital finance, not just new bank glamour shorts. It’s about collaboration, it’s about building the rails of the global south and north tech highway, with London and Lagos as anchor points.”
“In his own way, he bore the burden of leadership with unwavering will and served the country he so dearly loved with a sense of purpose shaped by his convictions,” Atiku said.
The former vice president extended his condolences to the Buhari family, the people of Katsina State, and the nation at large, praying that God, in His infinite mercy, will grant the late president eternal rest.
“May the Almighty forgive his shortcomings, accept his return, and grant him Aljannah Firdaus,” Atiku stated.
The former vice president concluded with a broader message to all Nigerians, urging reflection on the deeper meaning of leadership and legacy.
“Let this moment also remind us all, leaders and citizens alike, that the true measure of life is not in the length of our days, but in the depth of our service and the footprints we leave
on the sands of time,” Atiku stated. Gbajabiamila: He Was an Incomparable Statesman
Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbakabiamila, said since he received the news of Buhari’s death, “I have been left with a profound sense of bereavement, a consciousness of a loss that is too deep for words.
“I considered President Muhammadu Buhari a friend and a father figure. He was a man of dignity and integrity, steadfast in his resolve and tenacious in his determination to follow through on the commitments he made, whether to himself or his associates, family and our nation.
“He was an incomparable statesman, who occupied a unique space in the psyche and history of a country he loved and served for over sixty years. Life teaches us the inevitability of death and the certainty of loss. We learn this lesson through grief at the passing of friends and family, colleagues, and acquaintances.
“Eventually, if you live long enough, you become steeled by the anguish of compounding loss. Yet, ever so often, death surprises you even when it shouldn’t.”
Gbajabiamila added, “Here we are, a nation in mourning, shocked by a loss we could foresee, but could never be prepared for because Muhammadu Buhari, the soldier, the administrator and the politician, has been so long a part of our national consciousness that it seems impossible to imagine any other reality.
“It will forever be one of the great honours of my life that I got to know, work with and enjoy the friendship of Muhammadu Buhari. As Speaker of the House of Representatives, I enjoyed the unflinching support of President Buhari throughout the tenacious machinations of many who sought to use him and his office to undermine the parliament for the sake of political interests.
“When these machinations became a distraction and I went to him, he assured me that only the national interests mattered to him and that as long as I continued to serve that interest, I would have his support.
“As was his nature, he remained true to his word and thoroughly resisted those attempts to sabotage the House and, in doing so, enabled a period of stability that allowed the 9th National Assembly to be a legislature of policy innovation dedicated to the service of the Nigerian people.
“This, too, is his legacy, and it is a worthy legacy indeed. I am glad that I had the opportunity many times to thank him for his support and to appreciate him for his service to our country.
“Like all of us, Muhammadu Buhari was not infallible. Over the course of his decades in the public eye, he made his mistakes and his imperfections were inevitably magnified by being in full
view. That is the price of public life.
“Yet, despite his mistakes one thing was always certain, he was an honourable and dignified man, a fine soldier and statesman who loved his country passionately. Whatever else, we must remember that and honour the life he lived and the contributions he made to nation building.
“My family and I extend our condolences to the former first lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mrs. Aisha Buhari, the children, and the extended Buhari family for the loss of their patriarch. I urge them to be consoled by the profound accomplishments of President Buhari’s life, and the lessons of tenacity, dignity and grace that he embodied throughout his journey here on earth.
“To all his friends and supporters across the country, let us continue the work of serving our nation so that by our joint efforts we may achieve the cause of a nation at peace, prosperous beyond our wildest dreams. This is the highest tribute we can pay to this great statesman of our country.”
Pantami: His Name Was Synonymous with Integrity
In his tribute, former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Pantami, shared personal insights into the character of Buhari, whom he said he lived with for 25 years.
Pantami made the remarks during a condolence visit to the late president’s residence in Daura.
He described Buhari as a man of unwavering integrity, patriotism, and discipline, adding that their close interaction over the years strengthened his belief in these qualities.
Pantami stated, “Muhammadu Buhari’s name is synonymous with integrity. One may argue, if you don’t know him, but for those of us who interacted with him for several years, there is no doubt that his name is synonymous with integrity.
“I lived with him for 25 years and Almighty is my witness, I have never doubted that integrity through my interactions with him.” Pantami added that Buhari’s legacy would endure through his example of critical thinking and devotion to the national interest.
Bayelsa APC: Buhari Changed Course of Nigerian Politics All Progressives Congress (APC), Bayelsa State Chapter, joined the rest of humanity to mourn Buhari’s passing, saying, in a statement by the state publicity secretary, Mr. Doifie Buokoribo, that the former president changed the direction of politics in the country.
The statement said, “In a world where politics is often defined by elitism and standoffishness, the late President Muhammadu Buhari stood
to my family and I, I recall with mixed feelings how he’d enthuse ecstatically, “Oh my good God” each time something excited him so much that it made him laugh really hard.
I’ll continue to cherish our relationship because it meant everything to me. My only regret, however, is that I didn’t get to see him before he shut down and transited.
My dear father, since it has pleased the Almighty Allah to take you home and give you an enduring rest, as you are laid to mother earth today, I and my family will continue to pray for you and will do our best possible to making ensure that none of the things you left behind goes out of line. Your legacy will continue to speak for you now and in the hereafter.
My condolences to his widow, Aisha Buhari and his children; his surviving elder sister, Hajia Rakiya and his nephew, Baba Mamman Daura, and the entire Buhari family. Goodnight, a man of peace, honour, and integrity!
*Amosun, a former governor of Ogun State, was also a senator for Ogun Central Senatorial district.
‘We simply do our best and leave the rest to Allah. And on policy, you can drive policy from anywhere if you are determined.’
‘Ok sir’, I began to concur’, then adding, ‘I don’t also want to be absent from council and have a Minister torpedo the change efforts you are bringing me to lead in the petroleum sector’.
He rolled his eyes for a while, then bending forward he said in hushed tones
‘ok you will resume as GMD and when it is time for me to appoint Ministers I will also put you on the list’.
‘Thank you Sir’, I replied and as he stood up he added with new vigour and finality, ‘let’s hope you will be thanking me six months from now, but you resume tomorrow. I do not have time for equivocation.’
‘Yes, Mr President and my General’, I replied. I stood up and gave a mediocre imitative salute.
‘You are funny, Ibe’, he said with a dismissive laughter and wave of the hand, calling me by my name for the first time.
The second was when I went to him to suggest I wanted to go to the militancy zone and make contact with the militants to end the destruction of pipelines that was ravaging oil
production in the sector. It was in his office and we were alone.
‘Well, I don’t think it is a good idea. They will take you hostage and ask for ransom and tie my hands. I will rather let the security agencies deal with security issues and you produce the oil’, he said with a fatherly smile.
‘Only problem is, we can’t produce enough oil if we don’t stop the disruptions Mr President’ ,I replied. He leaned forward with his usual deeply probing eyes ‘are you one of the militants? How will you find them?’
That took me by surprise
‘No Sir, I am not one of the militants. But we have back channels’ ‘You want me to send officers with you into the creek?’ He asked ‘No Sir, that will be more trouble’, I replied.
‘You are on your own. This government does not pay ransome’, he scoffed at me, adding, ‘anyway, I am the substantive Petroleum Minister. If you don’t come back, I will continue the job without you.’
We had some good laugh on that occasion. It was to the credit of that trip, his willingness to accomodate my naivety, and our subsequent meetings with PANDEF under the leadership of Late Pa Chief Edwin Clark and the ceasefire that ensued, that oil
production rebounded from lowly 1mbpd to 1.9mbpd over the next few months. All under the President’s leadership.
I did not have the opportunity post my departure from Office in 2019 to meet President Buhari again and to exchange ideas and compare notes . Perhaps it would have afforded me an opportunity to debunk so many mischevious tales of rifts and disloyalty that characterized our working relationship in those years, largely peddled by some self serving pretentious aides and flank opportunists.
I was keeping that opportunity for a one day suprise visit to Daura. The truth is that all I prefer to remember of my working time with President Buhari are my Reverance and Respects for a great man. Regrettably, my visit today will now be only to participate in the burial Programme of a truly Great Man, for indeed THERE WAS A President.
May his soul Rest in Peace. Allah yaji kansa da rahama , ya bashi aljanna fir dausi. Tuesday 15th July 2025 10:00am •Prof Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu, former Minister of State Petroleum Resources (2015 -2019); Former GMD of NNPC
RAISING THE BAR ON EDUCATION...
National Assembly Writes Akpoti- Uduaghan, Rejects Reinstatement Request
Insists court-issued advisory not compulsory order
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
The National Assembly has formally responded to a legal demand for the reinstatement of suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The federal legislature insisted that the July 4 judgement by the Federal High Court in Abuja did not contain a binding order mandating AkpotiUduaghan’s recall. It said the court only issued an advisory urging the senate to consider her resumption.
UNICEF
The latest letter dated July 14, 2025, and obtained by our correspondent on Tuesday, was signed by Charles Yoila, Director of Litigation and Counselling, for Clerk to the National Assembly. The letter was addressed to AkpotiUduaghan’s lead counsel, Michael Jonathan Numa (SAN).
The federal legislature clarified its stance on the court’s judgement in the matter marked FHC/ABJ/ CS/384/2025: Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan v. CNA & 3 Ors.
Part of the letter read, “From our summary of the judgement order, there is no order made on the 4th day of July, 2025 by Hon. Justice B.F.N. Nyako for the Senate, President of the Senate or National Assembly to comply with.
“The declaratory judgement merely advised the defendants to exercise their power to recall Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and allow her to resume representing the people who sent her to represent them.”
According to the legal department of the National Assembly, the court’s position does not constitute an enforceable directive but rather a recommendation that places the decision squarely on the senate’s discretionary powers.
“You may wish to advise your client to await the action of the senate to exercise their power of recall as advised by the court,” the correspondence concluded.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing
Kogi Central Senatorial District on the platform of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has been at the centre of a legal and legislative storm since her suspension from the senate in May.
The suspension, reportedly initiated on grounds of “unparliamentary conduct” and “gross misconduct,” was seen by critics as politically motivated, especially considering her growing popularity and vocal stance against alleged irregularities in federal budget implementation in her senatorial district.
opposition lawmakers.
The National Assembly’s latest communication is likely to stir further political and public reaction. Already, civil society organisations and pro-democracy advocates have decried what they describe as “wilful legislative impunity,” warning that prolonged suspension of elected lawmakers undermines Nigeria’s fragile democracy.
A source close to Akpoti-Uduaghan described the National Assembly’s reply as “disappointing but not unexpected”.
Targets 20m Youths with Digital, AI Skills by 2030, Canvasses
Funmi Ogundare
As the world marks World Youth Skills Day, UNICEF Nigeria, yesterday, reaffirmed its commitment to equipping young Nigerians with critical digital and entrepreneurial skills to bridge the country’s digital divide.
UNICEF, in partnership with the Nigerian government, private sector players, like Microsoft, Airtel, IHS Towers, and international partners, aims to reach 20 million young Nigerians with digital skills, workplace readiness, and entrepreneurship training by 2030.
In an interview with THISDAY, Babagana Aminu, UNICEF Nigeria Education Specialist, explained that the initiative had already reached over nine million youths since its launch in 2021 under the Generation Unlimited Nigeria (GenU) platform.
“Jobs of today and tomorrow demand digital skills, especially
in AI and emerging technologies,”
Aminu said, adding, “Our mission is to prepare Nigeria’s youth to thrive in this evolving landscape and become better citizens.”
He identified major barriers to skills acquisition for Nigerian youth, including poor broadband penetration, lack of electricity in rural areas, and widespread unemployment.
Aminu stated, “While 159 million Nigerians have access to the internet, only about 50 per cent have meaningful broadband access, and in rural areas, digital literacy offerings are available in just 20 per cent of schools.”
To counter those challenges, the education specialist stated that UNICEF was providing free access to skills training through platforms, like the Nigerian Learning Passport (NLP), developed in collaboration with Microsoft and the Federal Ministry of Education.
Education Reform
He said, “Airtel users, for example, can access these learning platforms without needing data, ensuring inclusion even in underserved communities.”
Aminu added that through its passport to earning programme, UNICEF was delivering courses on digital literacy and generative AI.
He said, “In 2025 alone, UNICEF plans to train 700,000 youths in AI skills and 500,000 in basic digital literacy. We want to ensure Nigerian youth are not just consumers of technology but creators and innovators.”
The education specialist also addressed the issue of gender disparities, saying through the Girls Education and Skills Partnership (GESP), UNICEF and its partners, including the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), Yaba College of Technology, and Save the Children, aim to train 50,00 girls
Edo SDGs Secures N1.2bn Grant for Ambrose Alli University
Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City
The Office of the Special Adviser to the Edo State Governor on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), said it has secured a N1.2 billion education grant from OPay Digital Services for Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma. The grant is part of OPay’s national scholarship initiative - a decade-long Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) commitment aimed at supporting indigent students in 20 tertiary institutions
across Nigeria. It said with the agreement, AAU becomes the newest beneficiary of the initiative that aims to give hope to students from low-income families in Edo State, adding the grant will be shared amongst the 20 lucky tertiary institutions in the country.
Speaking with journalists on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) Ms. Sally Suleiman, Special Adviser to Governor Monday Okpebholo on SDGs described the feat as a reflection of the
government’s commitment to inclusive education.
“This achievement reflects our unwavering commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 4, which is ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.
“We are honoured that Edo State has now joined this prestigious circle, ensuring that indigent students in Ambrose Alli University will benefit from this impactful program,” she added.
and young women, including those with disabilities, in skills, like web development, mobile app creation, and computer repairs.
“We are working to bridge the gender gap in tech by ensuring equal access and offering mentorship and internships through corporate partnerships like Unilever and Vodafone,” Aminu said.
He stressed the need for the youth to remain passive beneficiaries but active shapers of their future through initiatives, like the “Young People Action Team”, where young Nigerians are given a seat at the decision-making table, advising on programme design, delivery, and priorities.
Her legal team, led by Numa, had filed a suit challenging the suspension, and argued that it was unconstitutional, arbitrary, and a violation of her constituents’ rights to representation.
On July 4, Justice Nyako of the Federal High Court delivered a judgement that was widely interpreted in legal circles as favourable to the embattled senator.
While the court stopped short of issuing a mandamus compelling the senate to reinstate Akpoti-Uduaghan, it expressed concern that the continued exclusion of the senator amounted to disenfranchisement of her constituents.
The court urged the senate leadership to reconsider its action in the interest of democratic representation.
But the senate had so far refrained from lifting the suspension, fuelling speculation of internal party politics, power tussle within the red chamber, and wider tensions between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and
The source confirmed that further legal steps, including a possible appeal or contempt proceedings, were being considered.
The senator herself had remained relatively silent since the court’s judgement, releasing only a brief statement on July 5 thanking her supporters and reaffirming her commitment to serve the people of Kogi Central. She had, however, made repeated attempts through her legal counsel to return to plenary.
The issue now hinges on the senate’s internal leadership decision. Senate President Godswill Akpabio has not made any official comment on the matter since the judgement, although insiders hint at divisions within the senate on how to proceed. With increasing pressure from constituents, human rights groups, and a possible escalation in the courts, the National Assembly may be forced to revisit its stance.
Digital Literacy: 250 Teachers, Principals, Zonal, State Inspectors of Education Receive Training in Osun
No fewer than 250 teachers, including schools’ heads, principals, zonal inspectors and state inspectors were yesterday trained on IHS Digital literacy training and school connectivity program to enhance effectiveness in the use digital technologies in partnership with UNICEF.
Speaking at a one-day interactive seminar on the theme: “Introduction to Digital Literacy in Education,” the Executive Director of Focus Teen Foundation, Mr. Olaonipekun Kazeem noted that IHS Nigeria limited would be leading a bold step to transform education through its digital literacy training and school connectivity program.
The director who spoke on the key components of digital literacy also listed some of the goals which includes mapping school connectivity nationwide and globally by 2023, connecting all schools to reliable internet access.
Others, he opined, are to ensure students and teachers are not left behind in the digital age and connectivity and digital literacy adoption in real- time.
The director equally posited that in universal connectivity, it connects every school to reliable internet, saying digital literacy would empower and equip teachers with 21st century skills.
However, in her own remarks, the Director, Sustainability, IHS Nigeria Limited, Mrs. Titilope Oguntuga who officially launched
the Digital Literacy Training and School Connectivity Program noted it was a collective investment in the future for every student in the country.
Titilope Oguntuga, represented by Tolulope Oyenuga, Manager Sustainability IHS Nigeria Limited, said: “At IHS Nigeria Limited, a leading telecommunications infrastructure company, we believe that access to connectivity should go beyond networks.
“It should unlock opportunities for education, empowerment, and growth in the communities where we operate. This initiative reflects our commitment to creating meaningful social impact by bridging the digital divide and supporting education at the grassroots.
Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo
L-R: Ebonyi State University Librarian, Dr. Victoria Nwali; the Dean, Social Sciences and Humanities, Professor Nkechi Emma-Echiegu; Managing Director of The Corniche Hotel Ltd, Mrs. Adanna Anyaso; Distinguished Maiden Alumni Lecturer, Dr. Chimaobi Desmond Anyaso; Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, Prof. Ike-Elechi Ogba; University Registrar, Mrs. Ugochinyere M. Uka; and the Deputy ViceChancellor, Administration, Rev. Prof. Michael A. Ajanwachuku, at the maiden edition of Ebonyi State University Alumni Lecture Series delivered by Dr. Chima Anyaso in Abakaliki… recently
Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE
Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com
08033025611 sms only
Anambra Guber: Candidates Brace Up for Campaigns
as the anambra State governorship election draws close, candidates of the various political parties have deployed various tactics to woo supporters. David-Chyddy Eleke reports that while Governor Chukwuma Soludo is in the United States rendering account to anambra diaspora community, Nicholas Ukachukwu is paying thank you tour to all local government areas for electing him as the party’s candidate.
On June 11, 2025, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) flagged off campaigns for all political parties participating in the Anambra governorship election.
A total of 16 political parties were listed for the contest, but unlike what was expected; only few of the parties and their candidates have commenced campaigns in the state. These include the incumbent governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo and candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA); the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu and Chief Jeff Nweke of Action Alliance (AA).
While Governor Soludo has not flagged off campaigns officially, his position as the incumbent has been an enabler for the organization of multiple rallies already in the state. Though he has not officially flagged off his campaigns, Soludo recently held rallies organized in his honour by his political supporters in parts of the state, showcasing his huge war chest in the coming election. Two weeks ago at Otuocha in Anambra East Local Government Area, some of his supporters organized a rally in his honour, where he was crowned by all the traditional rulers in the northern senatorial district of the state as Oluatuegwu; a title that spoke volumes of his workaholic nature. Not done, Soludo is in US, to hold a town hall meeting with Anambra indigenes in US and North America.
Though his Press Secretary, Mr Christian Aburime has vowed that it has nothing to do with campaigns, but a mere forum to account to the people of his progress in the state, it is however evident that many Anambra indigenes live in such countries, especially those who have dependants at home, whose decision they can also influence.
Aburime said: “As the 2025 Anambra State governorship election draws closer, political candidates are crisscrossing the state, making promises and rallying support, but while opposition candidates are deep in campaign mode, Governor Soludo is taking a different approach, one that demonstrates his commitment to good governance over routine politics. That is how statesmen and visionary leaders are separated from politicians. Visionary leaders are mindful of leaving enduring positive impact while politicians are desperate to just win the next election.
“On Sunday, July 6, the governor will engage
with the Anambra Diaspora community in the US and North America at a town hall meeting in Maryland. This is not an election campaign stop; it is another chapter in his administration’s untiring dedication to accountability and inclusive governance that has been the trend in the past three years. Governor Soludo’s decision to embark on this Diaspora engagement at a time when others would be focusing solely on the upcoming election speaks volumes about his leadership philosophy. Unlike typical politicians who flood the airwaves with their usual empty promises as elections approach, Governor Soludo is choosing to let his record speak for itself,” Aburime said.
In the case of Ukachukwu, while he has not also officially commenced campaigns, his Local Government ‘thank you’ tour, which was meant to appreciate party faithful for his election as candidate of the party has taken the shape of a full blown campaign.
So far, Ukachukwu has visited 18 out of the 21 local government areas of the state. In each of the local governments, his supporters had organized heavily to host him and also pledge their support for him. During one of such visits in Ayamelum LGA, Ukachukwu insisted that there are benefits in connecting to the centre through APC. He had said:
“You must be sure you follow people who have integrity, people who will make promises and abide by them. There is a lot to be gotten from the federal government.
“There are loans that people in states connected to the centre are enjoying and that is where we want to empower people from. Let us join APC, let us connect Anambra to the centre and you will be shocked the level of prosperity that you will witness. We want a state where we will look forward to finances from state and from federal government, there is a lot to be done and just one source of income cannot guarantee that we can meet the things we have at hand to do for our people.”
Also in Anambra East Local Government Area during another visit, a former member of the House of Representatives for Anambra East and West Federal Constituency, Hon Peter Madubueze, stated that their area has not enjoyed any benefit from APGA all these years, and that there was need to change leadership. He assured the APC and her candidate of their bloc vote, and regretted that their many years of support for APGA and it’s governorship candidates had been a complete disaster characterized by huge political deceit.
Another candidate who has made moves in kick-starting his campaign is Chief Jeff Nweke of Action Alliance. The candidate who many have described as ‘Bad Boy Governor’ had recently kicked off his campaign in Awka where he hails from. Known for controversial moves, and also popular by two of his many monikers - Nigga
A total of 16 political parties were listed for the contest, but unlike what was expected; only few of the parties and their candidates have commenced campaigns in the state. These include the incumbent governor, Prof Chukwuma soludo and candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA); the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prince nicholas Ukachukwu and Chief Jeff nweke of Action Alliance (AA).
and Ozo Zuluezu, which is his traditional title, his campaign flag off had witnessed a massive attendance. This was not a shock however as he is running for governor at a time when there is a heavy allegation around his neck, which borders on the disappearance of a businessman in Awka, Mr Ben Ezemma, also known as Big Ben, who has been missing for about eight months now.
The candidate had earlier been arraigned in court and later granted bail when his accusers failed to establish a link between him and the missing man. For a man facing such allegations, many had trooped to the campaign venue to see for themselves if he is truly in the race. While addressing his supporters, Nweke vowed to leave no stone unturned in his quest to be governor of Anambra State, while also pledging to ensure he fights hunger, insecurity and unemployment when he becomes governor.
He said: “My mission is simple: to wipe away the tears of hunger, unemployment, insecurity and deprivation among members of the downtrodden, and bring succour to them. I believe our people deserve the best. I’m offering a fresh vision that prioritizes quality education, improved infrastructure and fight against hunger and poverty through meaningful empowerment. Under my watch as governor, it is ‘You First’. That is democracy, a government of the people, by the people and for the people.
“We will prioritize security. My government will not witness any form of Fulani herdsmen kidnap or from some of our brothers who call themselves unknown gunmen. Maybe you people don’t know, I’m a security expert and we know what to do when we come aboard. This campaign is about you. I’m seeking your support so that together we can correct the anomalies and deliver the true dividends of democracy to our people,” he said.
As the state moves deep into campaigns, it is expected that most candidates will still flag off their campaigns to tell Anambra people what their government holds in stock for them. THISDAY however gathered that Governor Soludo will in August flag off his campaign. He had earlier been quoted as saying he was not in a hurry to commence campaigns as he is more engrossed with issues of governance. Sources said many other candidates were afraid of starting campaigns early as it aids over spending and they’re only willing to start close to the November 8, 2025 election, so that their funds can make meaningful impact.
Ukachukwu soludo
nweke
Kayode Tokede
It has emerged that a total of 10 leading banks in Nigeria spent an estimated N377.85 billion on Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) and Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) expenses in first quarter (Q1) of 2025, representing an increase of 34.6 per cent from N280.67 billion declared in first quarter of 2024.
This is according to the banks’ unaudited results for the first quarter ended March 2025 published on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX).
The 10 banks according to THISDAY checks are: First Holdco Plc, Zenith Bank Plc, Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO), United Bank for Africa Plc (UBA), and Access Holdings Plc.
Others include: Fidelity Bank Plc, Wema Bank Plc, Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc, Sterling Financial Holdings Company Plc and FCMB Group Plc.
A breakdown of the banks’ results showed that AMCON levy in Q1 2025 stood at N283.85 billion, about 28 per cent high when compared to N221.2 billion in Q1 2024, while Deposit Insurance Premium moved from N59.5 billion in Q1 2025, up by 58 per cent to N93.99 billion reported in Q1 2024.
Cumulatively, the 10 banks declared N1.58 trillion as profit before tax, representing an increase of 0.36 per cent from N1.51 trillion in 2023.
Banking sector resolution cost represents the corporation levy, which is applicable on the total balance
sheet size of a bank. The current applicable rate based on AMCON Act of 2015 is 0.5 per cent of total assets plus total off balance sheet assets.
Owing to the importance of the financial services sector, involving public funds, there is a need for buffers to protect public funds in case of bank failure or liquidation, hence, the need for deposit insurance.
Deposit insurance and AMCON levy are part of layers put in place to protect public funds and ensure the stability of the banking sector.
Deposit Insurance Premium is a statutory payment by deposit-taking banks that ensures that NDIC as an insurer guarantees the payment of deposits up to the maximum limit (Now N5 million) in accordance with its statute in the event of failure of an insured financial institution.
Typically, banks with the largest deposits pay the most premium to NDIC in terms of absolute numbers. However, some banks pay higher relative to their deposits based on a pricing mechanism.
THISDAY analysis revealed that Zenith Bank paid the highest AMCON levy in Q1 2025, while Access Holdings, according to the unaudited result and accounts recorded the highest Deposit Insurance Premium in the period under review.
Zenith Bank, with a total assets of N32.4 trillion as of March 2025, paid AMCON levy of N71.92 billion, in Q1 2025, up by 56 per cent from N46.22 billion reported in Q1 2024. The lender also paid NDIC Insurance Premium of N16.68 billion in Q1 2025, representing an increase of 97
per cent from N8.49 billion reported in Q1 2024.
Access Holdings paid NDIC an estimated N18.24 billion in Q1 2025, about 87 per cent from N9.7 billion declared in Q1 2024.
Also, Access Holdings declared AMCON levy of N38.95 billion in Q1 2025, about 30.58 per cent decline from N56.11 billion paid in Q1 2024.
The 30.58 per cent drop in AMCON levy in Q1 2025 is on the backdrop of N38.99 trillion total assets declared as of March 2025, down by 5.8 per cent when compared to N41.4 trillion reported in 2024 full financial year.
AMCON was established in 2010 in a bid to stabilise the Nigerian banking system by efficiently resolving the non-performing loan assets of the banks in the economy.
Currently, it is being funded by a combination of loan recoveries, contributions from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), sales of pledged assets, and a sinking fund assessed to the banks.
The federal government established AMCON with a 10-year mandate in response to the mounting bad loans and the requirement to prevent the banking sector collapse. The AMCON Act 2019 (Amended) gives the corporation broader authority to pursue obligors for unpaid debts. Additionally, helping eligible financial institutions efficiently dispose of eligible bank assets in compliance with the Act’s rules is one of the key objectives of the Act.
Oluchi Chibuzor
Woodhall Capital in partnership with Polaris Bank, the Lagos and UK governments have announced the launch of a N1.5 billion Creative Sector Fund aimed at expanding access to structured financing for creative entrepreneurs meant to scale their output across fashion, film, music, and digital content.
The fund was unveiled during the launch of the Creative Currency Podcast, an initiative designed to foster collaboration between creatives,
financiers, policymakers, and global stakeholders.
The platform will serve as both a podcast and policy engagement forum, tackling long-standing challenges such as limited access to finance, weak Intellectual Property(IP) enforcement, and the absence of scalable business infrastructure within the creative ecosystem.
In May 2022, Polaris Bank partnered with the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) to establish a N1 billion funding initiative targeted at artisans in
Lagos State.
The objective of the partnership was to deliver critical financial support to empower skilled artisans and entrepreneurs within the MSME sector who had maintained active business operations for at least one year ultimately fostering wealth creation and economic inclusion across the state.
At the launch event held at the Ikoyi residence of the British Deputy High Commissioner, Polaris Bank’s Executive Director, Abimbola Ozomah, who sat on a panel at the launch,
emphasized that the fund is a longoverdue response to the structural exclusion of creatives from formal financing systems. She described the initiative as a deliberate attempt to recognize creative endeavours, intellectual property as a bankable asset and to build a framework where creatives are treated as serious entrepreneurs capable of generating significant economic value.
“This fund represents more than capital, it reflects our belief in Nigerian creativity as a global force,” said Polaris Bank’s Executive Director,
Abimbola Ozomah. “We’re not just exporting talent. We’re exporting ownership, structure, and long-term value.”
Founder and CEO of Woodhall Capital, Mojisola Hunponu-Wusu, reiterated the urgent need to redefine how the financial system engages with the creative sector. She committed to providing bespoke financial products, advisory services, and investor-matching support tailored specifically for the needs of creative MSMEs.
The UK Government, through the
British Deputy High Commissioner, Mr. Jonny Baxter, highlighted its longstanding commitment to Nigeria’s creative economy. The UK-Nigeria Creative Industries Partnership signed in 2024 was cited as a milestone in unlocking trade, investment, and collaborative opportunities between both countries. The Deputy High Commissioner praised the initiative as a blueprint for global creative cooperation.
Elumelu: Tourism Critical Element for W’Africa Integration, Devt Agenda
Director of Private Sector at the ECOWAS Commission in charge of tourism, investment and business development, Dr. Tony Luka Elumelu, speaks on the commission’s participation at the Accra Weizo, a tourism expo put together by organisers of Akwaaba, the factors militating against tourism in West Africa, among others. Charles Ajunwa brings excerpts
What’s your assessment of tourism in Africa?
You see, movement is a way of life for every black person especially of African extraction. So tourism is beyond mobility, and is protecting our heritage. We have a culture, we have values that even though they’re eroding, but we need to protect them. But they also have linkages because of affinity with one another, and sharing of contiguous borders. They share the same culture and ethnic values. But one of the problems that is impeding tourism in our West African region is the fear of security issues. And I don’t think it should come up to that. All we need to do is to leave security issues for the security agencies to take care of. We should encourage mobility, exchange and cultural values because these are the things that were pillars in terms of our integration. Even beyond our integration, in terms of integrity, there’re values and standards that are expected of a family. And if you don’t behave that way, you are ostracised.
So tourism is something that should flow within Africa for other regions to know that we have this set. And if we have all sites, hotels, if we protect them with the kind of passion that we ought to do, we find that that will make Africa a destination continent. That’s what I feel.
How has the ECOWAS Commission contributed to the growth and development of the tourism sector in the region?
The ECOWAS Commission led the process in terms of developing what they call ECOWAS Tourism Policy. Because you must have legal instruments to guide whatever regime that you need to put in place. It’s not the ECOWAS Commission that will develop, but member states. Member states have adopted what they call ECOTOP. That’s ECOWAS Tourism Policy. Within that one, there’s a broad spectrum of intervention in terms of our tourism development. Beyond that, in terms of our hotels, again, because when you talk about tourism, the first thing that comes to your mind is hotels. No classification has been adopted, which means that if you say this is a four-star hotel, for example, Accra City Hotel.
If you go to Nigeria, it must be an equivalent. So it’s a harmonised process. Identify hotels, ecologies, bed and breakfast, harmonise all the processes. We’ve trained the operators. We’ve trained critical stakeholders in tourism management. To make sure that the implementation is in tandem with the relevant legal instruments. That’s exactly what ECOWAS is doing.
Beyond that, we are working with the operators when it comes to immigration, Customs, and police to ensure that we facilitate mobility of tourists. Also, we are developing what they call EcoVisa. EcoVisa has been adopted, but we are trying to make sure that we look at the mechanism because the concept of interoperability in terms of visa issues is not something that you just start doing.
Works are the highest level for us to harmonise processes, and to make sure that when you come with one particular visa as a tourist, you’re able to pass through the countries within the ECOWAS region.
So this is what we are doing for now. We’ve harmonised the passport regime. I’m sure you came to Accra, Ghana, with ECOWAS passports. We’ve adopted what they call biometric ID cards to demystify passports, so that when you are crossing the border with an ID card, you still feel that you are walking across from one street to another. Because even if you are in the country, you need an ID to cross.
(5:30) So these are demystifying travels. We are making sure that at the end, you have a seamless travel.
One of the things, again, in terms of capacity building we’ve done, I was at the Gambia three months ago, we were able to ask them that they should stop using the word like off-season, to look inward to ensure regional attraction in terms of tourism, so that it will be all-season instead of off-season. These are the things that we are trying to do, but quite a lot more we are doing. Because, you know, when you talk about investment, investment always comes from tourism. If you look down on tourism, you lose investment. When you’re talking about investing in your country, people will come in as tourists. And if they look at the investment climate as tourists, they will develop your country. So tourism is a critical element in terms of our integration and development agenda.
In what way is the ECOWAS Commission empowering tour operators?
Tourism is a broad sector with a different spectrum of intervention. Whether it’s SMEs, business, whatever. We’ve built capacities, supported them and provided the relevant finance and grants for the SMEs. We’ve institutionalised what they call a coalition of SMEs in the region. We’ve also done what they call ECOWAS Business humanisation. We’ve supported them in terms of funding, in terms of market access, because that’s what they need. Exchanges across the region. (7:32) So you can see that it’s quite a lot of support that we’ve been giving them. We’ve also institutionalised what they call the Investment Promotion Agencies in West Africa. So there’s quite a lot going on in ECOWAS.
We don’t sing our songs. But the most important thing is that we’ve adopted what they call the MSME Charter. The MSME charter is so broad in terms of areas of intervention by member states. Businesses that are wholly owned by women, that should be supported by the government, from even
the taxes collected. The problem we have is implementation. I just want to give you one simple example. but it might not be on record. If you look at the charter, our problem is the implementation of text. When it comes to free movement of persons, it was adopted many years ago? It’s almost as old as the flagship protocol 1979. And it started off very well. I was even a young officer in the Nigerian Immigration Service in the early 90s and the late 80s. And I tell you, it was easy for people to cross the borders.
You see, it is not the provisions or the legal instrument but the implementation that is just the problem. Once you have your passport, you ought to cross the border without any impediment because there are provisions there. You cross the border, bring yourself to the immigration officer at the border. After that point, you cross the border and nobody stops you. The provisions are still there. They haven’t changed. But the attitude of the operatives is just the problem. And beyond that, you have foreign elements who have taken advantage of the protocol. The Boy Scouts are there on the road. The community people are there on the road. All of them work as immigration or police officers. But it depends on the political will of the members to do the job and clear the road.
Is the ECOWAS Commission in partnership foreign organisations like the European Union (EU)to stimulate growth in tourism in West Africa?
Yes. We have support from the European Union in terms of the ECOWAS projects. And you see, the member states have benefitted from this. They work either directly with the member states or through us at the commission. But this, I tell you, also depends on the ability of the member states to enforce what they have signed. (10:49) Enforcement is key. If you develop the best protocols and you don’t enforce them, you will still have problems. So, it’s the enforcement that is a problem.
In terms of growth, where do you see tourism in West Africa in the next 10 years?
We’re projecting that with awareness now because you see, there’s a paradigm shift in terms of perception of tourism.
You mean Artificial Intelligence?
Exactly. Beyond AI, people are aware now. You are here. You go back and tell them that, oh Ghana, these are the things that you should go and see live. So, there are a lot of things that you should copy. And when they come to Nigeria, there are
positive things. Tourism is a new order. And every man, every woman is a tourist. Your ability to be able to make the best out of it. There’s awareness, holiday. I’m sure because of positive funds now. People want to buy tickets to go to European countries or America. If you pick the funds that you need to buy your ticket, you can spend it in the neighbouring country Amand still get the same benefit that you are looking for.
So, I think if we enhance our security architecture, one of the things that determines the inflow of foreign tourists. I feel that we should play down on security because security issues are being handled by the appropriate agencies. For example, let’s project our tourism sector. In Nigeria, we have, for example, we have quite a lot of places that people can visit. You have, in the North, in the South, in the West, in the East, good tourism sites that are there. Is it in the East, talk about Ogbunike Cave. In the West, Oshun River. You go to the North, the Yankari Games Reserve. Everywhere we have all those sites but we also need to develop them. Make sure that you put in the appropriate infrastructure because without infrastructure, you have a very big problem. That’s one of the things that you need to do. Our road networks, and also your power. They are also very important in tourism. In Guinea, you have Futa Jelon. In Cote d’Ivoire, you have the Basilica. You have every good thing in our region. Then you go to the seaside, you have The Gambia.
All these things are there. But our problem is that we need to do a lot of sensitisation. And you can’t do that without the media because most of the time, we plan, and in our strategies, we don’t put the media. So you’re bound to fail. Because if you light a candle and put it under your bed, there are two things. It will give you the light, but it will also burn the house. So that’s the problem.
This is your first participation in the Accra Weizo, what’s your take away from this travel expo?
First, I’m quite impressed because of the turnout. It is not the number, but the representation from member states. Two, you see history. The presentation by Ambassador Ikechi Uko, who is a Nigerian.He’s coming here (Ghana) to bring in this drama. I call it drama because it shows that Accra Weizo for ECOWAS has been accepted in terms of integration. So our integration agenda is working. The ECOWAS Commission is very happy, and we support such initiatives to make sure that people feel at home across the country when they decide to be domiciled. That is taking advantage of the protocol of human affairs and the right of entry and residence.
Elumelu
DEUTSCHE BANK EXECUTIVE…
L-R: Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo; Director General and CEO, NiMet, Prof. Charles Anosikeand Head of Sub-Sahara Africa, Corporate BankTrade Financial Institutions at Deutsche Bank, Andreas Voss, during the visit of Voss to Keyamo in Abuja… recently
PTAD Introduces Initiatives to Actualise its Mandate
The Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD), has said it has introduced various initiatives aimed at actualising its mandate which is to manage pension benefits for federal government
retirees under the old Defined Benefit Scheme(DBS), who did not transit to the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).
Speaking at the 2024/2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Nigerian Association of Insurance and Pension Editors (NAIPE),
Digital Partnership: UBA Rewards Customers with VERiCASH
Kayode Tokede
United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, has celebrated a decade of impactful digital transformation through its strategic partnership with leading fintech firm, VERiCASH.
The collaboration, which birthed the award-winning UBA Mobile App, has revolutionised digital banking across the continent - delivering seamless, secure, and user-friendly experiences to millions of customers.
To commemorate this significant milestone, UBA is launching a special promo for its mobile app users as a
way of appreciating their loyalty and sustained engagement. The promo is designed to reward customers for their continued trust in UBA’s digital platforms and reaffirms the bank’s commitment to driving innovation and excellence .
Group Head, Retail and Digital Banking, Shamsideen Fashola, who spoke on the success of the partnership, highlighted the global standards of the app which has been instrumental in bridging financial gaps and aiding inclusion in over 20 countries.
He said, “This partnership with
VERiCASH has been instrumental in positioning UBA as Africa’s premier digital banking institution, which is indicated by the amount of downloads and transactions we have processed in the past years.”
Chairman, CIT VERiCASH, Ashraf Zaki, who expressed his organisation’s delight at partnering with UBA over the past 10 years explained that the collaboration represents the pinnacle of possibility when innovative technology meets visionary banking leadership.
“Our collaboration with UBA over the past decade has been
transformative, not just for both organizations, but for the entire African banking landscape. We’ve witnessed firsthand how UBA’s commitment to innovation, combined with our technological expertise, has created a digital banking experience that rivals the best in the world” Zaki said.
Also speaking on the partnership, Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Alero Ladipo, expressed immense gratitude to the customers who have used the app, and unveiled the Special UBA/ VERiCASH Celebratory Promo.
The Alternative Bank, NCX Partner to Reshape Commodities Trade, Tackle Food Insecurity
In a move set to reshape the nation’s commodities market, The Alternative Bank (AltBank) has announced a strategic partnership with the Nigeria Commodity Exchange (NCX) aimed at unlocking greater value across the agricultural value chain through a structured, finance-enabled commodities trading ecosystem.
At the heart of the partnership is a commitment to introduce electronic warehouse receipts (EWRs) as credible collateral, giving farmers, aggregators, and commodity players access to much-needed liquidity without the burden of immediate sales.
Speaking on the significance
of the agreement, Group Head, Structured Trade and Commodities Finance at The Alternative Bank, Gbenga Awe, said: “This partnership is a bold step towards rewriting the narrative for Nigeria’s commodity value chain. For far too long, smallholder farmers and agri-SMEs have been trapped by poor access to capital, post-harvest losses, and unfair price pressures.
“What we’re building with NCX is a structure that allows them to hold on to value, trade on their own terms, and grow sustainably. We are enabling capital to flow in non-traditional, tech-driven ways that suit the realities of our market.”
On his part, Anthony Atuche,
Managing Director of the Nigeria Commodity Exchange, noted: “Our mandate at NCX has always been to create a transparent, efficient, and inclusive commodities market that works for everyone, especially producers.
This partnership with The Alternative Bank is a major leap in that direction. By facilitating financing through electronic warehouse receipts, we are strengthening price discovery, reducing distress selling, and laying the foundation for a more structured and secure trading environment.”
This partnership comes as the Nigerian government, in
partnership with the Nigeria Commodity Exchange (NCX) and the Africa Trade and Distribution Company (ATDC), is establishing a National Export Trading Company (NETC).
The AltBank and NCX collaboration directly responds to this challenge by unlocking capital, stabilising commodity trade, and enabling producers to trade from a position of strength.
The agreement with NCX is a natural extension of The Alternative Bank’s longstanding commitment to advancing commodity trading and financing, aiding financing for major export crops such as cocoa, cashew, sesame and soya beans.
Accion MfB Launches Digital Banking App
Michael Olugbode in abuja
Nigeria’s leading microfinance institution, Accion Microfinance Bank (MfB) has launched AccionMonie, a transformative digital financial services platform designed to empower individuals, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and lowincome households.
The bank in a statement said through AccionMonie, the microfinance bank is expanding digital capabilities for financial access and empowerment across the spectrum of underserved individuals and businesses. The user-friendly platform offers instant access to essential services,
including loans, savings, capital, and other forms of support.
It started that the launch of AccionMonie is a key part of the bank’s “Always there to lend you a hand”campaign, which reinforces its long-standing commitment to small business growth and the welfare of low-income households. The campaign positions Accion MFB not just as a financial provider but as a trusted partner in its customers’ journey towards business success and economic empowerment.
In Nigeria, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are one of the key growth drivers of the economy. Estimated at about 37 million, MSMEs currently account for 86 per cent of employment
and 48 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
However, despite their strong potential, the MSMEs continue to be impacted by existential challenges, notably access to capital and finance, infrastructure and an enabling business environment.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Accion MfB, Taiwo Joda, described the launch of AccionMonie as an important milestone and a testament to the bank’s culture of innovation; one that ensures its products and offerings continue to reflect the evolving needs of its customers.
He said: “At Accion Microfinance Bank, we believe in the potential of every MSME to drive inclusive
economic growth. That is why we are committed to empowering them with the financial support they need to grow, innovate, and make a lasting impact in their communities and beyond.”
On his part, the Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) of the bank, Stephen Olalere, stated that AccionMonie and the combination of the bank’s extensive network of over 74 branches in 12 states will address the persistent challenge of limited access to financial services faced by many small businesses in Nigeria. He added that the platform’s user-friendly features will simplify payments and offer much-needed support for both businesses and individuals.
sponsored by PTAD in Lagos, the Executive Secretary/CEO, Mrs. Tolulope Odunaiya, highlighted the mandates of the Directorate and their achievements so far.
Odunaiya, who was represented at the occasion by the Head, Corporate Communication, Mr. Olugbenga Ajayi and Head, Lagos Regional Office, Mr. Casmir Audu said, the Directorate was fully committed to protecting the pensioners’ rights to pension as well as their wellbeing.
Ajayi, said the Directorate was specifically established to handle pensions of those who did not move to the Contributory Pension Scheme, noting that, PTAD’s mandate was to ensure that eligible pensioners receive their due pension payments promptly and accurately.
“Since establishment of PTAD in 2013, and up till this present moment, PTAD has never failed to pay pensions every month, that is why we have been able to take pensioners out of the streets; that is one of the credibility the present government is enjoying because nobody is diverting money meant for payment of pensions anymore,” he said.
He stated that the directorate had continued to introduce various initiatives to enhance its efficiency and effectiveness, some of which
are field verification, I am alive confirmation, mobile verification, among others.
“As we progressed, we discovered that we shouldn’t be calling our fathers and mothers, especially, those from far distance to come and do verification here in Lagos and a technology was introduced. We call that technology ‘I Am Alive’ Confirmation. Why do we call it ‘I Am Alive’? Because pension under DBS is for life. Once you are still alive, you are entitled to your pension. I Am Alive enable pensioners to confirm their status even inside their home at every location.
“This is done through internetenabled phone and anybody can help you do it. Once you confirm your aliveness status, in the next six month, your pension will continue to run. We have introduced Mobile Verification for people who are sick, or those who are alive but are incapacitated to attend normal verification, we schedule mobile confirmation for those who have done Am Alive verification but later falls sick,” he added.
Ajayi disclosed that PTAD was a federal government treasury funded agency with no commercial bank account, adding that, its responsibility was to prepare schedules of pension payment.
Universal Insurance Plc, has announced that it has in the first quarter of this year surpassed its premium target by 130 per cent in terms of gross written premium having raked in N8.07 billion in the first quarter of 2025.
The company’s Managing Director, Dr Jeff Duru, disclosed this to insurance and pension journalists in Lagos, adding that the underwriting firm was progressive, highly innovative, and bringing insurance to the doorstep of its customers, with seamless operations, accessibility and affordability. “Our products are highly affordable. You can try us and you will get the best service with peace of mind,” Duru said. In the year ended December 31, 2024, the company said it posted a Gross Written Premium (GWP) of N15.25 billion.
According to him, “Last year, we recorded N15.25 billion in Gross Written Premium (GWP) and profits after tax of N2.8 billion Our shareholders’ fund as at the first quarter is in the neighbourhood of N16.4 billion when compared to N13.25 billion reported in 2024.”
He said the company was charged to serve the public better to make them have that experience. Our
claim payment is top-notch. Our services are top-notch. We are fully computerised”, Duru stated. According to him, all of the company’s Personal Line products are digitised. As he urged customers to go through the underwriting firm’s website, to access its products, get quotes and make payment seamlessly. He said customers could also initiate claim payment and the company’s staff would follow it up at the backend.
He further said the company has OkadaPass, adding that the product was designed for companies, organisations that were into delivery, people that deliver products and services through bike.
He said, “It’s an online or digital service provision for the delivery business. It covers the bike, the rider and the package, because the package can be of great value to the service providers and personal injury to the riders”.
According to the Universal Insurance boss, the company’s initiatives also include its digital customer portal, mobile app through which customers can access the company’s products, get quotes, initiate renewals, and initiate claims.
Ebere Nwoji
ProPerty & environment
NCF Commits to Partnering FG in 20bn Tree-planting Initiative
Bennett Oghifo
The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) has said it would do all that is necessary to partner the federal government in its proposed planting of 20 billion trees.
The Director General of NCF, Dr Joseph Onoja, stated this during a dialogue by NCF members and other stakeholders on ‘Preserving Nigeria’s Natural Heritage’, at the Lekki Conservation Centre in Lagos, recently.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, after touring multiple agricultural and industrial facilities across Ethiopia recently, stated, “We intend to plant 20 billion trees in the next rainy season. It requires a lot of planning, energy and drive which Ethiopia was able to galvanise its population into doing.”
Nigeria, he said, “Will embark on massive tree planting and its campaign thereof in the upcoming rainy season as part of its national reforestation and environmental sustainability drive.”
He said the initiative draws strong inspiration from Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Programme, which he described as a model for combining climate action with economic opportunity.
The NCF, Onoja said, would “partner with the federal government, especially in the light of the recent pronouncement by the Vice President Shettima in Ethiopia that Nigeria is going to plant 20 billion trees.
“At NCF, we have a model of making sure that happens, and we are willing to partner with the federal government. We’ve partnered with the Federal Ministry of Environment. We’ve done some work under the National Forestry Trust Fund, and we are hoping that we engage the office of the vice president to ensure that his pronouncement comes to light, because that is what we want. “And it’s very important for us to mention that that will go a long way to ensure not just the integrity of the Nigerian ecosystem, but it will also provide jobs, green
jobs. Imagine the value chain from collecting the seedlings to breaking the dormancy, to raising the seedlings, to planting and then to nurturing. We have about five value chains there where we can create green jobs. And you can imagine 20 billion trees. The number of green jobs that will be created will be enormous. And it will be a continuous thing, not just a one off, because growing trees takes three- four years. And with that, people will be able to develop themselves. And some of these trees will have economic value, so that by time you grow these trees, there’ll be such a way that they will grow, and then they will start providing economic value.”
He said, “The past year, 2024, was adventurous, I must say. And we advanced our tree planting activities with our partners, planting over 184,000 trees. We want to emphasise that we’re growing 184,000 trees, because we are not just planting, but ensuring that they grow because we want them to play
the role they’re supposed to play in the environment. “And that is what we continue to preach, planting the right trees at the right places, the right quantity, the right number at the
right time as well, and because we’ve been doing this over the years, it has placed us in a very advantageous position to be able to partner with the government.”
He called for collaboration in protecting the environment “so that the environment will protect us. It is not just a responsibility of the government.”
PWAN Group Achieves 67.3% Plot Allocation in 2 Months, Says Prof. Oyedemi
Fadekemi Ajakaiye
Nigeria’s premier real estate network marketing and development firm, PWAN Group, has made significant progress in addressing outstanding plot allocations to clients, with over 63.7% of pending allocations resolved between May and June 2025.
This was disclosed by the Acting Group Managing Director, Professor Julius Oyedemi, during a stakeholder forum held in Lagos. According to him, the recent surge in allocations is a result of deliberate and strategic measures introduced by the new leadership of the company.
“Every affiliate company in PWAN Group is very intentional about prompt and massive plot allocation across all states of Nigeria,” Prof. Oyedemi stated. “Our target is to achieve over 70% allocation by December 2025.”
The announcement comes amid ongoing efforts by the
company to reassure clients and rebuild confidence following complaints earlier in the year over delayed allocations. In response, Prof. Oyedemi had earlier appealed for a 24-month window to resolve all outstanding issues.
With the current performance, the PWAN boss expressed optimism that the company is on track to deliver on its commitment. “If we can achieve 80% in the next six months, then 100% completion is guaranteed within the next 12 months,” he said.
He added that plot allocations are actively ongoing across various states and affiliate companies within the PWAN Group. While acknowledging that some affiliates face peculiar challenges, he noted that his office, alongside the group board, is working closely with relevant managing directors to ensure quicker and more effective resolutions.
His words: “We acknowledge
that PWAN Prime, PWAN Excell, and PWAN Signature are experiencing distinct challenges. The management is committed to addressing these issues systematically, beginning with PWAN Prime.
From the Office of the Acting Group Managing Director, I have taken the initiative to donate 20 plots of land for each batch of allocations. This measure is aimed at resolving client allocation concerns as swiftly as possible.
Additionally, other Group Executive Directors will also be contributing plots in alignment with internal strategies designed to address the unique allocation challenges within their respective affiliate companies,” Prof Oyedemi explained.
According to the Acting GMD, everybody is on their toes within these challenging times. “Many of our affiliate companies are allocating plots daily, and that’s why it’s important to give this progress report,” Oyedemi noted.
Beyond plot allocations, the Acting GMD revealed that the company is also optimising internal operations to address broader organisational challenges. “Every organisation has challenges, but what matters is having a formula to resolve them,” he said.
He outlined a proactive approach that includes identifying issues, conducting problem analysis, developing and evaluating solutions, aggressive implementation with set timelines, and continuous monitoring.
“This structured process is why we have been able to achieve 63.7% in plot allocations so far,” Oyedemi explained. “By December 2025, we are confident of exceeding 70%, and within 12 months, we expect to eliminate delays entirely.
PWAN Group remains a key player in Nigeria’s real estate sector, with a vast network of affiliate companies and thousands of clients across the country.”
Julius Berger Plans to Deliver Warri/Effurun Road Project on Schedule
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc has said it is brazing up to deliver the ongoing Warri-Effurun Flyovers and Roads project to the Delta State Government on schedule.
In October 2023, the Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori signed the contract agreement with Julius Berger Nigeria Plc for the construction of three flyover bridges, a cloverleaf interchange, pedestrian bridges, and the expansion of roads in Warri and its environs. The duration for the project was 30 months.
The project details include, the design and construction of a flyover at DSC (Delta Steel Company) roundabout, along Effurun/Patani, (East-West highway) in Uvwie LGA, the design and construction
of a flyover bridge at PTI junction along the Effurun/ Patani (East-West highway also in Uvwie LGA and the design and construction of a flyover bridge from Enerhen junction, Effurun to Marine Gate, Warri and Warri South LGA.
At that ceremony, he expressed his confidence in Julius Berger’s ability to deliver on schedule, citing their exceptional track record in road construction in Nigeria; adding that the decision to choose Julius Berger was based not only on the company’s reputation but also on their expertise in constructing roads in riverine terrains, as evidenced from their successful projects in other states with similar topography to Warri’s.
Almost two years on last week, Julius Berger aptly underpinned the Governor’s
claim with the increased intensity of work on the three flyovers and underpasses, as well as roads being constructed.
With the relocation of the high-tension overhead cables that hitherto criss-crossed the section of PTI junction flyover early in the week, work on that section has restarted in earnest with the launching of beams for the flyover as well as construction of drainages notwithstanding the endless rains, that oftentimes, threaten to stop ongoing efforts on the sites.
Other sections of the project being simultaneously executed are the DSC and PTI junctions. As at early June 2025, while the DSC flyover had 81.60% work done already, that of PTI has been completed 68% and the Enerhen junction was 32.41%
work done, due to the delay in relocating the high-tension overhead cables.
According to the Project Manager, Thomas Haug, the minor delay we had in that section was not our fault. However, the extension of the height of the high-tension transmission lines upwards will now allow for unhindered work on the flyover and then the roundabout at that junction; saying, we can’t complete the roundabout now; because we have to build the bridge first. All these will be done this July. High-tension cables are for transmitting electricity over long distances. Therefore, they are designed always to withstand high voltages. So, they are usually found in overhead transmission lines. Haug further said, as for the rains, there is nothing we can
do to stop it from falling. But our determination and efforts to deliver keeps propelling us to move on; and we are really forging ahead; towards the delivery date.
Across the project sections last week, it was observed that workers were unperturbed by the ceaseless rains in the Warri, all-through from DSC junction to Effurun, causing minimal distraction as all hands were visibly on deck at the sites.
While the construction of diversion roads and pipeline crossing at PTI site was in advanced stage, construction of storm water drainages as well as the road expansion work was in progress at Effurun section. At the Enerhen flyover section, construction of storm water drainages as well as casting of in-situ bridge deck was in progress.
Speaking at the Enerhen flyover area, a Church Security Officer who gave his name as Comrade praised the efforts of Julius Berger saying that, the day our Governor go commission this flyover, Enerhen go answer its real name. Na we be showstoppers for Warri. Julius Berger, una dey try sha. According to the Project Manager, accolades have repeatedly come from residents of the town, saying, the people know that the project will improve the aesthetics and security of Warri and its environs. So, they can’t wait to begin enjoying the fallouts of the project. And as for their cooperation, we are receiving a large dose of cooperation from members of the different communities. The government too, has been a partner for our progress too.
L-R: Mrs. Rabi Isma; Mrs. Ebisan Akinsanya; Hon. Justice R.I.B. Adebiyi; Chairman, National Executive Council, Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), Mrs. Onari Duke; and Architect Ayoola Onajide; at the back: L-R: Mr. Adekoyejo Edu; Mr. Desmond Majekodunmi; and Director General, NCF, Dr. Joseph Onoja, at the 36th AGM of NCF held at the Lekki Conservation Centre... recently
Fadekemi Ajakaiye
Clients during a recent PWAN plot allocation exercise at Billionaires Island Estate, Asaba Delta State… recently
Engaging OAU Stakeholders for Strategic Safety, Security Overhaul
The Council and management of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, recently convened a two-day security summit with the objectives of reviewing the current security architecture and that of its environs, identifying prevailing and emerging threats, and proffering sustainable solutions to enhance the safety and security of all members of the university community. Funmi Ogundare reports
The Oduduwa Hall of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, recently witnessed the convergence of members of council, principal officers, security and common services department, provost, deans, directors, heads of departments, academic and non-academic staff, students, security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS), police, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), among others, for a two- day security summit.
Themed, ‘Strengthening the Security Architecture at Obafemi Awolowo University: Challenges, Opportunities and Strategic Solutions’, the summit aimed to review the university’s current security setup, address past panel observations, identify existing and emerging threats, and propose lasting solutions to improve safety, as recommended by the 2016-2020 Visitation Panel Report White Paper.
In his remarks, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Prof. Siyan Oyeweso, said that security is not just an operational matter, but an existential imperative for the institution, adding that the summit, was a direct response to the recommendations of the federal government visitation panel, aimed at crafting a strategic and modern security policy to safeguard its academic community.
“The panel, in its white paper covering the years 2016 to 2020, identified critical internal and external threats to campus safety from cultism
L-R: The Bursar, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Abogun; the Librarian, Dr. Olukemi Fadehan; DVC Administration, Prof. Mathew Daramola; Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adebayo Bamire; Council Chairman, Prof. Siyan Oyeweso; Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research, Innovation and Partnership, Prof. Akanni Akinyemi; Director, Internal Audit, Mrs. Bosede Oyesanmi; Registrar, Mr. Adetunji Bakare, and other participants at the two-day security summit of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, recently
and theft to land encroachment, cyber breaches, and herdsmen infiltration.
“This is not an arbitrary event. It is the fulfillment of an urgent call to action. The governing council is committed to ensuring that this summit marks the begin-
ning of deliberate, consistent, and system-wide interventions,” Oyeweso said. He highlighted OAU’s vast but underutilised landmass, of which only 18 per cent is developed, as a major security liability, surrounded by informal communities without defined boundaries. He also
acknowledged the presence of existing security units, such as the quick response squad, but noted severe shortfalls, including manpower shortages, irregular patrols, and increasing infiltration by cybercriminals and unauthorized persons.
Other pressing issues, the pro-chancellor noted, include unsafe student housing off-campus, lack of CCTV surveillance, reckless driving on campus, and poor collaboration with law enforcement. He outlined key pillars for reforming the university’s security infrastructure, including a unified security policy developed through expert and stakeholder input, the deployment of CCTV, motion detectors, and alarm systems, partnerships with local communities, students, and vigilante groups, recruitment reforms, and structured retraining for security personnel, among others.
He also urged the university to draw lessons from institutions like Lagos State University, which has implemented a licensed, well-equipped campus marshal unit with the capacity for armed protection and covert operations.
Oyeweso called on students, staff unions, and community leaders to play their part in maintaining peace and security. He condemned the practice of jungle justice among student groups and encouraged respect for due process, institutional policies, and national laws.
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InnovatHER STEAM Bootcamp Tackles Tech Industry’s Gender Disparity
In a bid to shatter the glass ceiling in Nigeria’s tech industry, a pioneering initiative is empowering young girls to take the reins and shape the future of innovation. Dubbed a game-changer, the InnovatHER STEAM Bootcamp 2.0 is bridging the gap and unleashing a new generation of female tech leaders. Mary Nnah reports
Though the tech industry in Nigeria is booming, women remain woefully underrepresented. According to recent statistics, women make up only about 25 per cent of the country’s tech workforce.
To address this issue, the Love for Change Women Foundation recently launched the second edition of its InnovatHER STEAM Bootcamp, a programme designed to empower young girls from underserved communities with the skills and confidence needed to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM).
The bootcamp, which has attracted nearly 200 participants, features interactive sessions, workshops and mentorship opportunities. At the heart of the programme is a simple yet powerful idea: that every girl deserves the opportunity to explore, innovate and lead.
“Every girl deserves the opportunity to explore, innovate, and lead, to break generational barriers,” said Mrs. Modupeola Olukoya, founder and Executive Director of Love for Change Women Foundation.
The InnovatHER STEAM Bootcamp 2.0 aims to expand its reach and build a pipeline of changemakers. With nearly triple the participants, this year’s edition was bigger and better than others.
The programme’s long-term vision is to help close the gender gap in digital literacy and leadership. “I want to raise a generation
A cross-section of beneficiaries at the InnovatHER STEAM Workshop of bold, creative and tech-savvy girls who can drive innovation not just in Nigeria, but across Africa and globally,” Olukoya said.
The programme’s impact is already being felt. According to Bukola Adeyemi, Project Assistant at the foundation, 90 per cent of the girls who participated in last year’s programme have decided to pursue careers in STEAM. “We want to
give them access to the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the tech industry. We bring in ladies, women who are successful already in STEAM. They see these people and they say, okay, if these people can do this, I also can do this,” Adeyemi said.
The bootcamp’s focus on emotional intelligence is also a key component of its approach. Oluwatoyin Banjo, a global catalyst for change and international development leader, facilitated
a session on ‘Leadership and Emotional Intelligence’. Banjo emphasised the importance of self-awareness, self-regulation and motivation in leadership.
“Leadership is not just about positional authority; it’s about influence, it’s about impact, and it’s about solving problems. As young girls in tech, it’s essential to understand your purpose, lead with purpose, and be bold in your endeavours. You must lead in that space with a purpose-driven mindset. You must understand that you are on a mission in that world of tech,” Banjo said. Banjo also highlighted the dire consequences of lacking emotional intelligence, including losing opportunities, becoming too timid, and being easily sidetracked.
He stated that young girls can develop the emotional intelligence skills they need to succeed by “being self-aware about their emotions, understanding why they are feeling certain emotions at certain times, understanding why they are feeling certain ways or certain emotions at any day, maybe any time and any moment,” Banjo explained.
The second key skill is self-regulation. “Understanding their emotions, recognising their emotions, understanding their emotions and managing those emotions,” Banjo said.
NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com
Qore Technologies Inspires Female Students to Pursue Careers in STEM
Dike Onwuamaeze
Qore Technologies has called on female secondary school students to consider careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
The company said this when it hosted students of Grace High School, International School Lagos, Wellsprings College, Dansol High School, Holy Family Saintly Scholars, and Star Diamond School in an event to mark the International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) 2025.
With the theme ‘Together We Engineer’, the
event was aimed at inspiring girls to explore career paths in STEM.
Qore, one of the leading fintech infrastructure and banking-as-a-service providers, underscored the critical need for increased female representation in STEM fields and highlighted the power of collaboration in driving innovation and shaping the future of engineering.
The theme emphasised that when women come together, they bring diverse perspectives and strengths that can lead
to transformative breakthroughs.
Speaking at the event, Head of Marketing and Communications, Qore Technologies, Ms. Seyi Amao, said: “We want girls to see that engineering is not just about machines and equations, rather it is about solving real-world problems and making a difference.”
She said that the theme ‘Together We Engineer’ is a call to action for everyone to support women in STEM and create more opportunities for them.
She stressed that as the world faces complex challenges ranging from climate change to digital
transformation, adding that the celebration of INWED 2025 reinforces a simple truth that engineering is a team effort, and everyone has a role to play.
The event also featured an interactive session where students engaged with accomplished women in tech innovation.
In her keynote titled ‘Why STEM Needs Girls: Bet on Yourself’, the founder of SkillBuddi Technologies, Ms. Sophia Emifoniye, encouraged the girls to believe in themselves and strive to become solution-driven builders in order to succeed.
FEaturEs NAF Reaffirms Commitment toVeterans’Welfare at Lagos Mid-Year Parley
In a powerful display of solidarity and commitment to their welfare, the Logistics Command of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) recently hosted its mid-year Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) Veterans’ Parley in Lagos bringing together retired personnel in a purposeful reunion.
The event, held at the NAFOWA Multipurpose Hall, Headquarters Logistics Command, Sam Ethnan Air Force Base, Ikeja, was one of many conducted nationwide across all NAF formations.
With the theme “Work-Life Balance” and topic “Redefining Purpose After Military Service”, the Lagos end of the parley was hosted by the Air Officer Commanding (AOC) Logistics Command, Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Adeniran Ademuwagun.
According to him, it served not only as a forum for shared experiences and reflection, but also as a health-centred outreach aimed at supporting the wellbeing of NAF veterans.
Reconnecting with Purpose
The event’s centrepiece was a lecture by Air Vice Marshal Benjamin O. Obadan (Rtd), who addressed the emotional and practical challenges many service members face as they transition into civilian life.
In his presentation titled “Redefining Purpose After Military Service”, AVM Obadan identified four major challenges: loss of identity, lack of structure, difficulty translating military-acquired skills, and mental health issues.
He emphasised that redefining purpose is not an endpoint but “a journey of self-discovery and growth.” According to him, finding new meaning is crucial because it provides direction and focus, fosters a sense of fulfilment, and supports mental wellbeing.
He encouraged veterans to identify their core values, connect with fellow ex-service members, seek mentorship and support groups, and give back through volunteering in their communities.
“These steps help to reignite that sense of mission,” he said, adding that transitioning from active duty to civilian life should be seen as an opportunity for growth, not an ending.
Caring for the Body as Well as the Spirit
Another important highlight
was the health talk on “Falling in the Elderly,” delivered by a consultant family physician. Veterans were educated on the causes, risk factors and consequences of falls, which remain a major health hazard among the elderly.
The physician stressed the importance of preventive measures, such as regular exercise, staying active, taking medication responsibly, ensuring good lighting in living spaces, and decluttering homes to avoid accidents. Beyond health advice, the session allowed veterans to interact directly with medical professionals in a panel-style outreach designed to listen to their concerns and offer tailored advice.
Air Force Leadership Shows Up for Veterans
Although the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, could not attend in person, he was ably represented by the Air Secretary, AVM Ahmed Bakare, who spoke candidly about the vision behind the parley.
“The programme unites veterans, builds a realisation that their skill sets are still relevant, and serves as a medical outreach platform where we hear their complaints,” he said. He described the event as a continuation of the CAS’s commitment
to honouring veterans’ sacrifices after decades of service. “This is the second edition,” AVM Bakare noted, “and we’ve already recorded more positive responses than the last. It shows how impactful this engagement is.”
The CAS’s message was clear: veterans are not forgotten. In a nationwide address, Air Marshal Abubakar described the parley as “a national call to remembrance, reflection, and reconnection,” and pledged ongoing improvements to healthcare, pensions, and welfare. “This is your home,” he assured them, “and your voice will always count.”
For many of the retirees, the event felt like a homecoming. One veteran became visibly emotional during the interactive session, remarking that they had “never felt as seen” as they did that day. The atmosphere throughout the parley was a blend of heartfelt stories, institutional pride, and forward-looking dialogue.
In bringing veterans back into the fold, the NAF not only honoured its past but reaffirmed its enduring commitment to every man and woman who has ever worn its uniform. The CAS Veterans’ Parley continues to stand as a testament to the bonds of service, sacrifice and legacy that define the Nigerian Air Force.
How Tech Cloud Specialist, Chinedum Ucheoma was Honoured At 100 Most Notable Peace Icons 2025
An expert in cloud technology, Chinedum Ucheoma has joined the list of notable Africans honoured at the recently concluded 100 Most Notable Africans Leadership and Business Summit 2025 in Kigali, Rwanda.
He was a recipient of the honour of 100 Most Notable Peace Icons, an honour which recognizes his work, which reflects a unique blend of visionary leadership, cross-market insight, and a relentless drive to create meaningful and scalable impact.
Ucheoma assists companies in Africa and Middle East to optimize their operations using technology. He is a respected technology strategist and one of Africa’s foremost voices in cloud infrastructure, responsible AI adoption, and digital transformation.
These are factors that earned him the recognition where other notable Africans from across various countries were also recognized.
With over 15 years of experience spanning enterprise technology, business advisory, and emerging market expansion, Chinedum is recognised for driving innovation and growth at the intersection of business and technology.
The organiser of the summit which held from July 4 - 6 at the Kigali Marriott Hotel thanked the guests for finding time to identify with the organization.
company, expressed appreciation for the recognition, saying it will spur him to do more and contribute to the involvement of young Africans in the technology ecosystem to create value and impact.
He reiterated his commitment to building inclusive, technologyenabled ecosystems that empower SMEs, corporates, and public sector institutions.
At the moment, he is also establishing a Venture Capital Investment Company focused on creating and investing in smart, lean businesses that serve massmarket and specialist needs across underserved markets.
His work reflects a unique blend of visionary leadership, cross-market insight, and a relentless drive to create meaningful, scalable impact.
The Project Director Africa of 100 Most Notable Peace Icons 2025 , Ambassador Dr. Kingsley Amafibe who was full of gratitude with the quality of attendance said the organization will continue to identify and recognize individuals who are making a whole lot of difference to advance the frontiers of development in Africa.
Among others honoured include, football star Mo Salah, Africa's richest man Aliko Dangote, music star Burna Boy, renowned investor Femi Otedola, DG WTO Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and other notable Africans.
Uzoma Mba
Air Secretary, AVM Ahmed Bakare (middle) flanked by AOC Logistics Command, Air Vice Marshal Adeniran Ademuwagun (seventh left); Guest lecturer, Air Vice Marshal Benjamin O. Obadan (Rtd), (sixth right); Chief of Staff, Logistics Command, Air Vice Marshal Zayyan Abdullah (fifth right), and other retirees at the recent Chief of the Air Staff Veterans’ Parley for Logistics Command in Lagos
Speaking at the event, Chinedum who is at the moment
Chinedum Ucheoma (right) recently joined the list of notable Africans honoured at the just concluded 100 Most Notable Africans Leadership and Business Summit 2025 in Kigali, Rwanda
Cloud and AI Advisor at an American multinational computer technology
Images at BuharI’s Bur I al
m I l I tar Y Pall B earers B r IN g IN g O ut the BODY F r O m the a I r C ra F t
as
including
participation reflected the military’s highest honour to one of its own.
BODY re C e IV e D BY P res ID e N t BO la ahme D t IN u B u
a nine-man team of senior military officers appointed
pallbearers
maj gen m.t. usman (former Commander, guards Brigade under Buhari); maj gen Williams, maj gen s. Nuhu, rear adm s. Dahun, rear adm s.I. Ngatuwa, rear adm J.O. ajodo, air Vice marshal a. amesinlola, air Vice marshal I. sani, and air Vice marshal O.C. Obiabaka. their
the body of late President muhammadu Buhari was formally received by President Bola ahmed tinubu, marking the start of national burial rites in honour of the former leader.
LAST FAREWELL PARADE
COMMISERATING WITH THE FAMILY OF THE LATE PRESIDENT
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, joined by the nation’s service chiefs, led the final farewell parade in honour of late President Muhammadu Buhari. Those present included the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa; Chief of Army Staff, Lt-General Olufemi Oluyede; Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar; Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; and the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Major General Emmanuel Undiandeye.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kassim Shettima paid their respects and commiserated with the family of the late President Muhammadu Buhari. Tinubu offered condolences to the widow, Aisha Buhari; her son, Yusuf Buhari, and other members of the extended family during the solemn moment of mourning
P raY ers at the graV es I de and f I nal bur I al r I tes
Prayers were offered at the graveside as the final burial rites for late President muhammadu buhari were observed. religious leaders, captains of industries, politicians and military officers were present at the solemn ceremony, marking the nation’s final farewell to the former leader.
TOWARDS YOUTH DEVELOPMENT...
Lamido: I’m in PDP But I Support ADC
Former Jigawa State governor, Alhaji Sule Lamido, has said while his support for the Senator David Mark-led African Democratic Congress (ADC) remained, he insisted that his loyalty to Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was unquestionable.
Lamido spoke to a crowd of his loyalists at an empowerment event organised by Senator Mustapha Khabeeb (PDP, Jigawa South West), in Dutse, the Jigawa State capital, over the weekend.
The former governor and one of the founding fathers of the PDP, said the coalition of opposition parties was put together to salvage Nigerians from the misrule of the ruling All Progressives Congress in order to rebuild Nigeria.
“Yes, I support the coming together of the opposition under the ADC, but let it be known I will never leave the PDP. I built this house with my sweat and soul. My role now is to offer guidance and ensure Nigeria finds her way back,” he said.
He blasted the APC-led administration at both the state and federal levels for failing the people in every sphere of governance.
“The three PDP federal lawmakers from Jigawa are serving the people. APC lawmakers? They’re serving only themselves. Let the people judge,” he declared.
In a symbolic gesture to signal unity among opposition parties in the state, Lamido introduced Kabiru Hussaini, the state ADC chairman to the PDP crowd.
Senator Mustapha Khabeeb, the host of the event, echoed Lamido’s sentiments, reminding the audience of the PDP’s legacy of progress, especially during Lamido’s time as governor. He said: “From 1999 to 2015, and especially under Sule Lamido, Jigawa knew what development
looked like —roads, schools, hospitals, real change. What do we have now? APC has brought nothing but hunger and hopelessness.”
Khabeeb equally showcased his efforts to continue the PDP legacy through massive empowerment drives. Meanwhile, the ADC, has accused
APC and the federal government of hypocrisy over their sudden display of grief over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
The ADC said the ruling party, which had spent the last two years blaming Buhari for Nigeria’s challenges, was now seeking to portray
itself as the chief mourner.
In a statement signed by the ADC Interim National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party reaffirmed its declaration of a three-day mourning period across all its chapters and structures, beginning today.
“During this period, the ADC will
suspend all political activities and public statements in honour of Buhari’s contributions to the country.
“Regardless of political affiliations, what cannot be denied is that President Buhari served this country with a fierce sense of duty, personal discipline, and conviction,” the statement read.
Commissioner: Delta Harnessing Rural Infrastructure, Transport Development to Invigorate Blue Economy
Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba
Delta State is leveraging its unique geographical assets and aquatic wealth to chart a bold course towards an inclusive and sustainable blue economy, with a strategic focus on rural infrastructure and transport integration.
The State Commissioner for Works (Rural) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, explained this while outlining Delta’s transformational agenda at a ministerial joint briefing session involving key ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) as well as members of the Senior Executive Course 47 of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), led by Adeleye Oyebade, a retired assistant inspector-general of police, at the Prof. Chike Edozien Secretariat in Asaba.
The session themed - “Blue Economy and Sustainable Develop-
ment in Nigeria: Issues, Challenges and Opportunities” - underscored the state’s foremost role in harnessing inland and coastal water resources in driving economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social inclusion.
Aniagwu, in company of Mr. Onoriode Agofure, Mr. Ejiro Jamani and Mr. Peter Uvuejitobor, his counterparts from the Transport, Environment and Oil and Gas ministries respectively as well as top government functionaries, described Delta’s extensive river networks, over 500 kilometers of navigable waterways, and Atlantic coastline as a “strategic advantage” waiting for maximal utilization.
Aniagwu assured the Oborevwori administration was determined to reverse this trend through deliberate, multi-sectoral investments that will bring rural and riverine communities into the mainstream of economic
development.
According to Aniagwu, the blue economy goes beyond traditional sectors like fisheries and tourism, noting: “It is a framework for building climate resilience, reducing poverty, and fostering inclusive economic participation.”
Accordingly, the state’s approach consists in treating “rural roads, jetties, cold-chain logistics and digital access as interconnected pillars capable of unlocking the full spectrum of aquatic-based opportunities”, he noted.
Currently, the key efforts include road construction and rehabilitation projects in traditionally marginalized areas he pointed out.
“These include the Ogheye Floating Market and access roads in Warri North, Ohoror/Bomadi/ Gbaregolor road in Bomadi, and the Trans-Warri-Ode Itsekiri road network, which incorporates 15 bridges.
with market hubs.
“In addition to road networks, the state has significantly invested in water transport infrastructure, including the building and upgrading of jetties.
“These moves are designed to ensure safe, efficient, and environmentally sustainable mobility across Delta’s waterways, which remain the primary means of transportation for many rural dwellers,” Aniagwu further said.
The state government’s approach was not limited to physical infrastructure, he explained, saying, “It is also focused on empowering people particularly youth and women through capacity-building in aquaculture, tourism, logistics and marine services.
opportunities for all, realistic reforms, and enhanced peace and security.
Aniagwu explained that the integrated rural infrastructure strategy is expected to yield far-reaching impacts.
“Economically, it will increase trade in fish and agricultural products, lower transportation costs, attract private investment, and reduce rural unemployment.
“Socially, it will foster community ownership, promote women’s participation in fisheries and trade, and preserve indigenous knowledge systems.
“Environmentally, the shift to clean energy transport, mangrove restoration, and sustainable resource management will protect fragile ecosystems while enhancing community resilience.”
BuHArI BurIeD In BlAze of GlorY WITH full MIlITArY HonourS out as a unique example of a statesman and influencer who was popular with the masses and respected by the elite. He was a leader who embodied the values of courage, discipline, integrity, and compassion.”
Bayelsa APC added, “Buhari’s commitment to duty and the nation was unwavering, both as a soldier and a politician. He led with a strong sense of responsibility, which prioritised the well-being of the people and security of the nation.
“He brought to politics a strategic mind-set that combined the discipline and nerve of a soldier and the diplomacy of a politician. He determinedly went for the presidency of his country, braving all odds, until victory came his way in 2015.
“It was sweet victory, one that changed the course of politics in the country, being the first time that an incumbent president would lose to the opposition.
“Buhari contested for the presidency for a consecutive four times, in 2003, 2007, 2011, and 2015. He stayed the course until some day came in 2015, when he finally met his goal.”
According to the APC state publicity
secretary in Bayelsa, “Buhari’s character also shined through in the military. He held several important command and staff positions, as well as political appointments during his distinguished military career.”
The statement alsi said, “Buhari’s quiet strength and unshakable resolve endeared him to many across social classes. He was a friend of the poor, and a rallying point for the elite.
“His lifestyle of humility, transparency, and simplicity are virtues that will continue to inspire generations for a long time.”
MAN: His Tenure Brought Attention to the Importance of Manufacturing
Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) also mourned the death of Buhari.
According to the president of MAN, Mr. Francis Meshioye, Buhari implemented policies aimed at promoting economic growth, improving infrastructure, and enhancing Nigeria’s industrial development.
Meshioye said, “His tenure brought attention to the importance of manufacturing as a driver of economic development and job creation.
“Though the economy experienced difficulties during his tenure, President Buhari granted the association audience to proffer solutions to mitigate the binding constraints that limited the performance of the manufacturing sector. He also provided solutions to some of the challenges confronting manufacturers.”
Meshioye added, “We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, associates, and all Nigerians during this solemn time.
“As the nation reflects over the life and career of President Muhammadu Buhari, MAN calls upon all Nigerians to honour his memory.
“We should also reflect on his achievements and continue to work toward the advancements of manufacturing.
“Government should reflect over his policies and recommit to the creation of a conducive atmosphere for sustainable economic development and the upliftment of the overall wellbeing of the citizenry.”
“The ongoing construction of the Ayakoromo Bridge in Burutu Local Government Area and rigid pavement roads in Warri South-West are also cited as critical arteries meant to connect hinterland communities
“By strengthening cooperatives, enhancing ICT access, and integrating renewable energy solutions such as solar-powered cold storage, the state is helping small-scale producers to scale their operations and connect with broader markets”, he further said.
He noted that Delta’s vision aligns with the M.O.R.E Agenda of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, which prioritizes meaningful development,
Looking forward, Aniagwu called for greater national coordination and proposed the designation of Delta State as a pilot “Blue Corridor” beginning in 2026 to test integrated blue economy initiatives.
He also advocated federal support in the deployment of cleaner transport technologies, inland waterway dredging, and cold-chain logistics development.
Minister Sets Think Home Agenda for Diaspora Nigerians
From Tony Icheku in Owerri
Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu has challenged Nigerians based abroad to prioritise channeling of skills, resources, and innovative spirit acquired abroad back to their ancestral home thereby fostering a cycle of growth that benefits both present and future generations. Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu, speaking at the 4-day Annual Convention of Mbaise USA (an umbrella body of Mbaise people of Imo State in the USA), described Mbaise people as greatly endowed people who have contributed in diverse areas to the development of Nigeria while making
their marks as diasporans in the US. The Nigerian envoy equally expressed great delight and strong commitment to the Medville Medical City, an international standard medical city proposed to be built in Mbaise, Imo State.
She described the project spearheaded by the Mbaise USA in partnership with a consortium of investors as one that will not only address the healthcare needs of the people of Mbaise and beyond but also remain a catalyst in redefining healthcare development in Nigeria. Mrs. Odumegwu-Ojukwu who acknowledged the hospitality of the US and Europe nonetheless stressed that now is the time to invest in
their home communities.
She urged diaspora Nigerians, especially the Igbo, not to see the US as their permanent homes but to begin to take proactive steps in replicating in their homeland communities the developments they enjoy in their present places of abode.
She maintained the progress observed in diaspora communities should serve as a blueprint for local development, inspiring purposeful investments and initiatives in Nigeria.
“By building bridges between their experiences overseas and opportunities at home, Nigerians can collectively uplift their communities and strengthen the nation’s fabric”, she said
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
L-R: Members of Not Bad Sports Arena (NBSA)- Saheed Tiamiyu, Prince Kiladejo Adewore and Femi Oyelaja; the Proprietor of NBSA, Deputy Comptroller of Customs (Rtd.), Mr. Mike Ohadike; Lateef Lawal, Sani Ohadike, Alao Kayode and Biodun Adeshina, in a group photograph after a recently concluded successful Nigeria Table Tennis Federation-approved men’s Top 16 table tennis tournament at the indoor sports hall of NBSA in Egbeda, Alimosho, Lagos State
INVESTITURE CEREMONY
OF MR. JOSHUA ANSA...
L-R: Second Deputy Vice-President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Chief Oye Akinsulire; Chairman, ICAN Lagos and District Society, Mr.
immediate Past Chairman, ICAN Lagos and District Society, Dr. Olumide Adedeji; and Director, Membership Affairs, Mr. Adams Imonikher, during the investiture ceremony of
the
of ICAN Lagos and District Society in Lagos… recently
Wike Taunts Ireti Kingibe, Says She’s
Blinded by Fear of Looming
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has taunted the Senator representing the FCT, Ireti Kingibe, as someone blinded by the spirit of her impending electoral woe.
Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the FCT Minister, Lere Olayinka, made the rebuke in a statement yesterday as a riposte to Kingibe’sremarks on a TV programme, describing Wike’s appointment as FCT Minister by President Bola Tinubu as a mistake. He attacked Kingibe of not seeing
the positive transformation going on in Abuja and the FCT satellite towns because of a phobia for the FCT Minister.
Olayinka said: “It is funny that someone who is impersonating by using the name of Ambassador Baba Gana Kingibe, that is no longer her husband, believes that jumping from one television station to the other to disparage the FCT Minister will revive her dead political career.”
Olayinka dared Kingibe to go to communities like Saburi, Dei Dei, Kabusa, Ketti, Yangoji, Pai, Gomani, Gishiri, Kwaita, Yebu, Yangoji, Sukuku,
Ebo, Ushafa and others awash with good roads, and mount the rostrum and tell the people that President Tinubu made a mistake by appointing Wike as FCT Minister.
“Most importantly, she can also visit traders in the Apo Mechanic Village, whose dream of being relocated to a permanent site is being fulfilled more than 15 years after, as well as those residing along Apo-Wasa road, and tell them it was a mistake that Wike was appointment as FCT Minister.
“In Abaji, Federal Capital Territory University, Abaji (FCTU), a university established close to 15 years ago, but
Defeat at Polls
was abandoned, is now witnessing a massive infrastructural development. Also, general renovation of 22 schools have been done in the last 12 months while renovation of more 40 others is ongoing.
“As expected of someone already blinded by the spirit of a coming defeat, Ireti, alias Kingibe won’t see all these. Reason is, she knows that in 2027, she won’t be able to retain the Senate seat she accidentally got in 2023. She knows that the factor that got her to the Senate is no longer available and she is desperate to use attacks on Wike to gain political leverage,”
Gunmen Kill 27 Farmers, Burn Houses in Fresh Plateau Attack
Seriki Adinoyi in Jos
Gunmen have attacked Bindi-Jebbu of Tahoss Community in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, killing no fewer than 27 farmers including men and women in the community.
Several others were also injured
in the attack and were rushed to hospitals, including Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH), Plateau Hospital and other health facilities in the state.
National President of Berom Youth Moulders (BYM), Dalyop Solomon, who confirmed the incident to journalists in Jos, accused Fulani
militia group as responsible for the attack.
Solomon said that the gunmen stormed the community on Monday, shooting indiscriminately and setting houses on fire.
He said: “27 persons were killed and many were injured. We have taken the bodies to different hospitals
Says Oyebanji’s second term will be more beneficial
Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti
Ahead of the June 20, 2026 governorship election in Ekiti State, the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, has declared that his principal, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, remained the best for the state to continue till 2030. She stated that the state couldn’t afford a trial and error governance, by electing a neophyte to govern the state at the expense of an experienced governor like Oyebanji, whom she said had been tested and trusted as an administrator.
Afuye spoke in Aramoko and Ado Ekiti, headquarters of Ekiti West and Ado Local Governments on Monday, at the conclusion of the women mobilisation tour organised by the office of the First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji to rally support for her husband.
She assured the APC members that his boss, Biodun Oyebanji would serve more inclusively and beneficially,
if given the second term in office.
She saluted the APC members in Ekiti West and Ado Local Governments for their spirit of camaraderie and solid backing towards Oyebanji and the first lady, who were their son and daughter.
“You have tested Governor Oyebanji and found him suitable as a Governor. He has done excellently well in the last three years. You know that if given a second term, he will do more. I want you to double your votes for him.
“Our governor hails from Ekiti West and the First Lady is from Ado Ekiti. He is your son. I know you won’t let him down. As you won’t let him down, he too will not disappoint you, be rest assured about this.
“What we need in Ekiti is someone with the experience and the fear of God to lead us. I know Governor Oyebanji possesses all these qualities,” she said.
Projecting into the future, Afuye added that the government would
continue to be gender sensitive, by allotting more lofty positions to women in politics and administration, saying the governor was counting heavily on them to clinch the ticket in the party’s primary.
The Secretary to the State Government, Prof Habibat Adubiaro, commended the governor for standing by women to rise politically and administratively saying only Ekiti has six members in the House of Assembly in the country.
The APC Women leader, Mrs Caroline Eegunlusi and the Chairperson, Ekiti APC Women Council, Mrs Ronke Okusanya, said Ekiti women have indisputably enjoyed the dividends of democracy under Governor Oyebanji’s leadership.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Chief Jide Awe, urged the women and other party members to be steadfast in their support for the governor, who has served with passion and delivered the best for the state.
pending the burial arrangement.” Spokespersons of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) and the state police command, Major Samson Zhakom and DSP Alabo Alfred, respectively, have not responded to calls and text messages sent to them at press time.
But the chairman of Riyom LGA, Bature Sati Shuwa also confirmed the incident but could not give the casualty figure.
Olayinka said. He said Wike could not be compared to frustrated politicians like Ireti ‘Kingibe’ who is treating her aides like slaves, refusing to pay their wages and entitlements for several months. He also counselled the Senator to get real, saying at 71, she should have a clear identity, use her legitimate names, “and stop using the name of a man she is no longer married to.”
MD Hails Benue Investment Company for Employing Over 580 Staff
George Okoh in Makurdi
The Benue Investment Property Company, (BIPC) Managing Director Raymond Asemakaha has said the establishment of water, bread, nails and polythene industries has led to the employment 580 direct jobs and 3008 indirect jobs in the state.
Even as he set October 1st, 2025, as date for commencement of operationalisation of its Juice factory sited at the industrial layout Makurdi.
Asemakaha who disclosed this on Tuesday while interacting with journalists at the NUJ House in Makurdi, explained that equipment installation at the factory is 100 percent completed, adding the company will engage over 400 persons.
Asemakaha stated the company
would be producing mango and orange juice by taking off the fruits from Benue farmers at the state price and setting prices for those who come from the north to exploit the Benue farmers. He said: “We have installed the juice factory. It is going to start start precisely October 1, 2025. The juice factory is just beside Naka Road having 65, 000 capacity and 100 percent installed.
“We are expecting the manufacturer to come in the month of August to test run so that we would start producing the orange juice and Mango juice.
“We want to set a standard and by the time we start we would determine the price of oranges in Nigeria. Benue has the best orange and mango and our people take it to the North and give them at a price that is not reasonable.
Hammed
in Ilorin
The interim National Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, yesterday, said the party would reduce the prices of petrol in the country if it won the nation’s presidency in 2027.
This, among others, he said would bring new lease of life to the masses and add values to the economic growth of the country.
Abdullahi, a former Minister of Youths and Sports Development, said the removal of fuel subsidy by the present administration has inflicted pains to the economic life and businesses of the people of the country.
He added that, the government has failed to think on what would be serious effects on ordinary Nigerians before they embarked on the removal of fuel subsidy.
Speaking with journalists in Ilorin while paying a visit to his
ancestral home of Anifowoshe compound, Ubadanwaki ward of Ilorin West local government council area of Kwara State, Abdullahi berated the present administration for imposing bad policies on the masses of the country which hitherto has allegedly ruined many lives and businesses in the country.
The visit, however, led the traditional head of Ubandawanki, Alhaji Mahmud Yusuf Amuda and one of elders at Anifowoshe compound, Alhaji Ahmed Addi and other people in the area to pray for Abdullahi on his new political journey in the country.
“Since the beginning of the present administration in Nigeria, there is no good policies they have been able to implement for the socio well being of Nigerians. What is the factors responsible for the present situation we are facing in the country today?
“Without planning, without
thinking, the federal government withdrew fuel subsidy of 100 per cent and that catastrophe has hit the people of the country.
“How much are we buying fuel, how much are we buying petrol, we were buying petrol at the rate of N145 per liter or.so and how much is the fuel price now? It has increased to almost N1000 per liter ,it took them just a day to ruin this country
“Let me tell you there is alternative to this policy of subsidy removal from petrol. It is the policy that the government introduced that hit deep the country and ruin the economy of the country. The IMF even said the FG crossed over their bounds on the removal of fuel subsidy yet they refused to listen.
“They didn’t think about it and they just did it. If they have been to think about it, they will know how it is going to affect the masses of the country.”
Joshua Ansa;
Mr. Joshua Ansa as
23rd Chairman
Shittu
COURTESY VISIT…
L-R: Managing Director/Editor-in-chief, News Central TV, Mr. Kayode Akintemi(left), and Founder/Africa Global Chief Executive
Ndu, during a courtesy visit to the TV station in Lagos… recently
Economic
Police Unravel Alleged Murder of Chinese National, Arrest Two Suspects in Plateau
Linus Aleke in abuja
The Ogun State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Eleweran, with the support of the Nigeria Police Force Technical Intelligence Unit (TIU) has unraveled the circumstances surrounding the alleged murder of a Chinese national, Mr. Chen Wang, in Ogun State, the Nigerian Police Force has revealed.
A statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer,
Assistant Commissioner of Police Olumuyiwa Adejobi, revealed that the two prime suspects in the murder case, Yunusa Abdullahi and Peace Keno Danlami, were apprehended in their hideout in Plateau State.
The Chinese national, Mr. Chen Wang, an employee of WH Great Resource Limited, Ogere, Ogun State, was allegedly murdered by the duo on January 12, 2025, after disabling the company’s security system.
Adejobi said: “The incident,
Nasarawa’s Perm Secretary Kidnapped
Igbawase Ukumba in lafia
The Permanent Secretary in the Nasarawa State Ministry of Information, Tourism and Culture, Yusuf Musa, has been kidnapped at his residence in Tudun Gwandara in Lafia, the state capital.
It was reported that some AK -47-wielding gunmen trailed the permanent secretary and forcefully took him away when trying to open the gate to his house upon returning from a journey. According to a source, “One of his neighbours raised an alarm at night when he discovered that his car was parked outside and his gate was opened. When we got there, we searched for him, but he was nowhere to be found, and his gate was open.”
The Nasarawa State Police Command said it has initiated a manhunt to unravel the suspected abduction of the top government official.
The police said that at about 3 a.m. yesterday, a patrol team from B Division, Lafia, discovered a Peugeot pick-up van with all doors left wide open in a suspicious manner. Upon closer examination, officers observed that the gate to the victim’s residence was also thrown open thereby raising security concerns.
Police said that a swift search of the premises of the said permanent secretary indicated that the man was missing with his GMC vehicle, bearing registration number KUJ 88 PA raising more suspicion of an abduction.
In response, the state Commissioner of Police, Shetima Jauro Mohammed, swiftly ordered the deployment of activated tactical operation by alerting police divisions and units across the statein Akwanga, Andaha, Garaku, and Kadarko,and deploying surveillance to comb the strategic routes in search of the victim.
C’River, Air Force Deepen Ties for Security of State
Bassey Inyang in Calabar
The Cross River State Government and the Nigerian Air Force have pledged to deepen their partnership in strengthening security across the state, especially around strategic infrastructure and high-risk zones, to ensure safety for citizens and investors.
This commitment was renewed during a courtesy visit by the Air Officer Commanding ,AOC, Mobility Command of the Nigerian Air Force, Yenagoa, to the Government House in Calabar.
The meeting brought to light the evolving role of military-civilian cooperation in securing Cross River’s economic future.
Representing Governor Bassey Otu, Deputy Governor Peter Odey, described the administration as “military-friendly” and praised
the Air Force and other security agencies for their role in maintaining peace and stability in the state.
“Cross River is building a new economy that will attract investments and tourists. From the Bakassi Deep Seaport to the African Development Bank’s agricultural project in Tinapa, we are setting up infrastructure that will need to be properly secured,” Odey said.
He acknowledged recent joint security operations, including the clearance of criminal elements from the waterfront areas, and hinted at future aerial support in difficult terrain where naval access is limited.
“The Nigerian Navy is finding it difficult to access some of the creek areas due to narrow tunnels.
We believe a bit of air intervention, which only you can provide, will help us fully secure these zones,” the deputy governor noted.
which occurred on January 12, 2025, drew immediate attention when the Ogun State Police Command received a distress call regarding the discovery
of Wang’s lifeless body within his office premises. Preliminary findings revealed that the deceased had suffered fatal stab wounds to the chest.
“In line with the strategic policing mandate of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, the Nigeria Police Force Technical Intelligence Unit
(TIU) was promptly mobilised to provide high-level operational and technological support to the Ogun State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Eleweran.
Diri’s Defection to APC Imminent as Group Rallies Ijaw Nation
Olusegun Samuel in yenagoa
The eventually defection of the Bayelsa State Governor, Sen. Douye Diri, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) is getting nearer by the day as a group under the coordination of one of his media aide, Wisdom Ikuli, has urged him to make the move.
There has been rumours of the governor’s defection ever since other fellow South-south Governors had all decided to join the ruling APC, but such talks had been waved aside by some of his aides in the past, until yesterday’s declaration by a group led by his Technical Adviser on Media, Wisdom Ikuli.
Addressing some stakeholders and journalists in Yenagoa, the state capital, Ikuli, the Convener of the Concerned Bayelsa Stakeholders Forum (CBSF), said the call for the governor to join the APC was sacrosanct and inevitable to align the state with the central to achieve more development projects. Ikuli mentioned the projects abandoned by successive federal government to include the Agge Seaports and numerous other projects, which he said, will not only open Bayelsa to the world but usher in economic development for the state and job creations for its citizens.
ECOWAS Addresses Cross-border Trade Hurdles Plaguing Women Entrepreneurs
Omolabake Fasogbon
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has intensified efforts towards facilitating seamless intra-African trade among women at its just concluded empowerment initiative in Lagos, tagged: ‘Caravan’.
Caravan is described as regional advocacy and empowerment campaign designed to support small-scale women traders operating in West Africa’s informal trade sector.
The programme, which was held across West African countries to culminate in Lagos,
spotlighted the role of women in the development of region’s informal trade sector and the urgency to eliminate barriers to their operations through reforms.
In Lagos, the event attracted over 300 stakeholders from across ECOWAS member states who charted strategies to navigate
women’s trade challenges, via panel discussions, strategy toolkits, and interactive engagements. Speaking also, the ECOWAS Commissioner for Social Affairs and Gender, Professor Fatou Sow Sarr, reiterated the importance of the initiative at driving women’s visibility, voice, and value.
Popoola Links Stock Market’s Growth to Reforms, Strong Regulation
Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group), Temi Popoola, has attributed the impressive performance of the nation’s stock market in the first half of 2025 to a deliberate focus on structural reforms and strong regulatory engagement.
The first half of 2025 recorded strong momentum across multiple asset classes. Total market capitalisation of NGX-listed instruments rose by 16 per cent, from N112.60 trillion in January to N126.73 trillion by June. This growth was
largely driven by equities, which increased from N62.76 trillion to N75.95 trillion. Fixed income remained stable at N50.56 trillion, while ETFs gained traction among retail investors, rising to N25.79 billion.
Speaking on the performance, Popoola said: “We have worked closely with the Securities and Exchange Commission to enhance market transparency, drive product diversification, and strengthen investor protections. Our aim is to build a market that competes globally while remaining inclusive and resilient.”
Kano Profiles 718 Political Thugs for Rehabilitation, Says Waiya
Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano
In a decisive move to address the rising wave of phone snatching, thuggery, and other security threats, the Kano State Government has profiled 718 political thugs for engagement and rehabilitation under its Operation Safe Corridor initiative.
The state Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, disclosed this during a one-day stakeholders’ engagement in Kano.
He said the state is fully commitment to tackling insecurity through strategic collaboration with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and other stakeholders.
expressed concern over the alarming resurgence of street thuggery and the notorious ‘Yan Daba’ groups in Kano’s urban centres.
In his presentation titled: ‘Insecurity Around Phone Snatching and Theft: The Role of Civil Society’, Waiya
He said: “Addressing this issue requires more than enforcement. It demands inclusive engagement and proactive rehabilitation.”
Ipee Calls on Kwara Gov to Caution Offa over Land Encroachment
Yinka Kolawole inOsogbo
The Ipee community in the Oyun Local Government Area of Kwara State has called on the state Governor, AbdulRahman AbduRasaq, to caution the Offa community, which they said has laid claims to a land at Ile Poro that belongs to them.
Ipee community said Offa is falsely laying claim to the land, which belongs to some family compounds in Offa.
The community warned that the governor’s urgent intervention would lead to avoidance of chaos between
the two communities. It would be recalled that the proposed siting of a Federal Government Housing Estate in Offa was approved with the location for the project at Ile Poro in the Egunkara area but the Ipee community said the location site falls into its territory.
Ipee community described the claims by Offa that Ile Poro belongs to it as “fabricated, unfounded and has no merit, premised on deliberate misrepresentation, misunderstanding of the court judgment referred to in the Offa Descendants Union bulletin.”
Anambra Contractors Protest Unpaid N900m Supply of Diesel to Power Streetlights
David-Chyddy Eleke in awka
A group of contractors in Anambra State who supplied diesel for use in generators for powering streetlights across the state have staged a peaceful protest to the
Government House in Awka. Their protest was over the alleged refusal of the state government to pay outstanding debts amounting to about N900 million for diesel supplied in March and April of 2022. The contractors, who
converged on the Government House in Awka, accused the government of making selective payments, alleging that while a few contractors had been settled, many others were being unfairly sidelined without any explanation.
Carrying placards with inscriptions such as “Selective payment is injustice,” the protesters said they had exhausted all official channels to seek redress without any meaningful response from the authorities.
Officer,
Forum Media Group, Mr.Jude
Osimhen Transfer Turns Messy as De Laurentiis Gets Death Threat
Napoli want €40m paid upfront, €35m in 2026, and a
Duro Ikhazuagbe
With Napoli’s setting new conditions of €40million paid upfront, followed by €35 million in instalments by 2026, and a 20% sell-on clause before Victor Osimhen can depart Naples for Istanbul on permanent move, Galatasaray’s quests to have the
Nigerian striker is facing new hurdles.
The Turkish Super Lig champions who earlier proposed payment plan was €17.5million each and paid in 2026 and 2027, are now only willing to pay that €40million now and the balance €35 million by 2027. They have also said no to any sell-on agreement.
NOC Mourns Its Three-term Grand Patron President Muhammadu Buhari
The Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) has joined millions of Nigerians to mourn the passing of former President, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, a distinguished leader who served as the committee’s Grand Patron across three separate tenures.
President Buhari’s patronage spanned his entire leadership of the nation, starting with his role as military Head of State from 1983 to 1985.
A condolence message released by the NOC’s Public Relations Officer, Tony Nezianya, on behalf of the committee mourned with the Federal Government and the people of Nigeria, as well as the immediate family of the late President.
The NOC notes that President Buhari continued in this capacity during his two terms as the democratically elected President of Nigeria, from 2015 to 2019 and from 2019 to 2023.
The NOC fondly recalls his leadership during what it described as a “glorious era” for Nigerian sports. A key highlight was Nigeria’s historic victory at the inaugural FIFA Kodak U-16 World Cup in China in 1985.
As Head of State, Buhari, promised the victorious team and their handlers houses as rewards for their monumental achievement.
In a remarkable display of integrity and commitment, this long-standing promise was fulfilled decades later during his civilian presidency, when the houses were finally redeemed and allocated to the deserving heroes.
In a tribute, the President of the NOC, Engr. Habu Ahmed Gumel, lauded President Buhari’s unwavering support for athletes. He remarked, “President Buhari kept faith with destiny and never toyed with the desires of sportsmen and women, who brought laurels to the country. Challenges endured, and they received their dues during his lifetime.”
Engr. Gumel noted that this dedication is a “remarkable quality in leadership” and that President Buhari’s actions have “undoubtedly remained a motivating initiative for today’s athletes,” encouraging them to strive for excellence with the assurance that their efforts will be recognised and rewarded.
Edo Sports Commission Visits Ailing Coach Kadiri Ikhana
The Edo State Sports Commission Chairman, Hon. Desmond Amadin Enabulele, represented by the Commission’s Executive Director (Edo North), Hon. Frank Ilaboya, has visited the ailing Coach Kadiri Ikhana at the Irrua Specialist Hospital, Irrua.
Ikhana, a member of Nigeria’s 1980 AFCON winning team and first coach to lead any Nigerian club side to win the CAF Champions League in 2003, has been bedridden at the specialist hospital for prostrate related ailment.
According to Ilaboya, “it is good to know that the award winning coach is in high spirit and recuperating fast,” observed the former Edo FA
Chairman.
He revealed that Ikhana was grateful to the Edo State Sports Commission boss for the visit and said this gesture will aid his recovery process. Hon Ilaboya was accompanied by Bendel Insurance Coordinator, Hon Felix Osaro and Faith Ojeaga, member of Edo State FA Board representing Edo Central.
Ikhana, fondly called Kawawa played for Bendel Insurance and led Enyimba FC of Aba to win the 2003 CAF Champions League. He also had stints with several teams in the domestic NPFL before he retired from coaching.
Ayra Starr, Kawhi Leonard for Masai Ujiri’s Giant of Africa Festival 2025
Giants of Africa, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering African youth through basketball, alongside its founder Masai Ujiri, have announced additional talent for Giants of Africa Festival 2025.
Nigerian pop sensation, Ayra Starr, has just been announced as a performer at the festival’s Closing Concert on August 2, joining a powerhouse lineup that includes Afrobeats stars Kizz Daniel and Timaya.
Two-time NBA champion, Kawhi Leonard, has also been added to Giants of Africa Festival 2025’s all-star lineup. The L.A. Clippers forward will mentor youth campers, open a new basketball court in partnership with Giants of Africa at St. Ignatius
School, and host a special clinic for 50 local youth at Club Rafiki in one of Kigali’s most underserved districts.
Additional celebrity guests appearing throughout the week include Robin Roberts, Chiney Ogwumike, Didier Drogba, Michael Blackson, Boris Kodjoe, and more.
Additionally, local Rwandan artist Alyn Sano is now set to perform at the festival’s inaugural Threads of Africa Fashion Show on July 31. Launching a week of unforgettable music moments, the festival’s exhilarating Opening Show on July 27 will feature performances by South African DJ phenomenon Uncle Waffles, MTV VMA-winning choreographer Sherrie Silver.
That however is not the only new condition to be met. Napoli have also said if by Saturday, July 19, 2025 the transfer is not consummated, the deal will be off while they will open talks with Saudi’s Al Hilal who are willing and ready to meet their conditions.
Top Transfer Expert, Fabrizio Romano, confirmed yesterday on X that Galatasaray have rejected both terms advance by Napoli.
This was further collaborated by another Transfer Expert, Matteo Moretto.
“Still no agreement between Galatasaray and Napoli for Victor
Osimhen,” he posted on X
“The Turkish club has not accepted the latest changes requested by Napoli.”
However, in another twist to the transfer of the Nigerian from Naples, it was reported yesterday that Edoardo De Laurentiis, the vice-president of Napoli and son of the president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, has been subjected to death threats linked to the transfer of Victor Osimhen to Galatasaray.
According to Turkish journalist, Samet Çayir, a series of WhatsApp messages were disclosed, showing
communications between a purported Galatasaray supporter and Edoardo De Laurentiis, in which the supporter warned of serious repercussions should Osimhen not be allowed to move.
The supporter allegedly claimed to be affiliated with the ‘Turkish mafia’ and issued threats against the De Laurentiis family, prompting them to lodge a police complaint.
A section of Galatasaray fans has accused Napoli President De Laurentiis of being the main stumbling block that the transfer has yet to be finalised.
AFN Lists 92 Athletes as 3rd CAA U18/ U20 Championships Begin in Abeokuta
Duro Ikhazuagbe
As the third edition of the Confederation of Africa Athletics Under-18 and Under-20 Championships begin today at the MKO Abiola Stadium Complex in Abeokuta, the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has unveiled 92 male and female athletes to fly the country’s flag.
AFN’s President, Chief Tonobok Okowa and the Technical Director, Gabriel Okon, yesterday listed 51 male and 41 female contingent that will try to wrestle the top position from South Africa.
According to Okon, the team moved into the championship village on Monday after two weeks of camping that followed the national trials in Shagamu, Ogun State.
A breakdown of the list shows that 23 boys and 17 girls will be competing for honours 17 events respectively in the U-18 category while 23 girls will also compete in 18 events while the 29 boys will be battle for honours in 19 events in the U-20 category of the Championships.
The Technical Director said the Technical Committee took a very critical and thorough look at the strength, technical and tactical abili-
ties as well as the events that we have advantage in, before selecting each member of Team Nigeria.
“I’m confident that this will go places, they are the future of Nigeria athletics. They’re young, eager to learn and the spirit in the camp is sky high,” Okon a former sprint said.
President of AFN, Chief Tonobok Okowa, also charged members of Team Nigeria to go for glory at the competition which starts Wednesday.
“It’s not a win at all cost but
they should run, jump and throw with the zeal and determination to succeed, we are fully committed to this project of laying a solid foundation,” Okowa stated.
“We went to Ndola, Zambia two years ago with 41 athletes and the team finished on the podium. This time around we want to run for the top honour,” Okowa, a Vice President of the Confederation of African Athletics added.
Temitope Ademola and Honourable Victor Clement are the captains
of the team, Ademola leads the girls and Clement is the boys leader. Defending champions, South Africa have restated their determination to beat Team Nigeria and other countries to the title in Abeokuta.
South Africa topped the medals table at first edition in Cote d’Ivoire in 2019 and retained their title in 2023 in Ndola, Zambia.
Apart from the host country, Nigeria, South Africa has the second largest delegation in this year’s championships in Abeokuta.
Regional Heavyweights Clash at 2025 ITTF Africa West Regional Championships
The battle for regional supremacy begins today, Wednesday, July 16, as West Africa’s table tennis powerhouses converge on the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos, for the 2025 ITTF Africa West Regional Championships. This prestigious tournament, serving as a qualifier for the 2025 African Championships set to take place later this year in Kigali, Rwanda, will see Nigeria—the host nation—compete against top teams from across the region in both team and singles events over the next four days.
Historically, Nigeria has dominated the region, but recent years have seen rising challenges from nations like Togo and Côte d’Ivoire. The competition promises to be fierce, especially after Togo’s dramatic 3-2 upset over Nigeria’s star-studded men’s team at the 2024 edition in Lomé.
Nigeria’s men’s squad boasts a strong lineup, including Matthew Kuti, Taiwo Mati, Muiz Adegoke, Abdulbasit Abdulfatai, and Matthew Fabunmi. Togo counters with their experienced, US-based star Kokou Fanny, supported by promising talents Atarou Assou and Kossi Akakpo.
Spires 5-Aside: All Saints FC Are Champions of Badagry Division
All Saints Football Club have emerged back-to-back champions of the Spires 5-Aside Naija Street Soccer Tournament in Ajegunle. The last season’s runner-up at the state level successfully defended their crown as the top team in the Badagry division following a hard fought victory over Chekas
United on Sunday. The coach Agbo Anebi tutored side retained their title after a hard fought 4-3 triumph over coach Samuel Nkasiobi’s boys in the final played at Hon. Lukmon Olumoh’s Sports Arena, Awodi-Ora, Ajegunle, Lagos. There was also plenty of fireworks in the losers final, but Joint FC had a disappointing afternoon following their 4-2 loss to Emaljus football club. The top scorer award of N50,000 went to Wahab Hammed of all Saints FC who scored 14 goals. He was closely followed by Justin Hezekiah of Chekas Utd with 12 goals.
A total of 77 goals were recorded across eight matches. All Saints FC received a prize money of N500,000, as Champions of Badagry division, while Chekas United and Emaljus football club got N300,000, and N100,000, as the first and second runners-up respectively.
President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Chief Tonobok Okowa (centre) being assisted by Technical Director of the federation, Gabriel Okon and others to unveil Team Nigeria’s kits for the CAA U18/U20 Championships starting today in Abeokuta
Victor Osimhen...drama continues over his planned exit from Naples
JAnAzAh pRAyER foR AwUJALE...
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Oh My Good God!
“Oga, I’m sorry. That’s how God wants it. He is dead.”
That was the shattering message I received at about 4 p.m on Sunday 13 July, 2025 breaking the sad news of the passage of former President Muhammadu Buhari. It was most unexpected. I had been on the trail of those at the bedside of the former President for days, as we compared notes on the day I was to visit him in London. Each time, they advised that I tarry a while for an auspicious time for the visit.
The news brought to a close, the decades of my relationship with former President Buhari, a relationship I will cherish until I breathe my last.
In 2006, when I first ventured to run for the office of Governor of Ogun State, the powers that-be placed various obstacles in my path. General Buhari came through at a time when all hopes were lost.
He offered me the platform of his All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and while virtually all the VIPs invited for the declaration of my ambition chickened out in the face of State intimidation. General Buhari put his life on the line, followed me to the declaration event at
gu EST COL um NIST
In my years of relationship with him, I came to know him as a man of spartan discipline. His use of time, words and resources were always measured. As a leader, he was ever driven by the care of the poor, the underprivileged, the underserved in our society.
Every policy was measured with a prism of how it would affect the poor. As a leader, he prevented his family from the abuse of government patronage. His personal discipline was not a resource for personal aggrandisement or reputation-building. It was borne out of conviction.
Buhari’s time in government, first as a Military Head of State and secondly as a democratically elected civilian President, was devoted to transforming Nigeria into a disciplined, orderly and progressive country in which the poor and weak are protected.
His vision for infrastructure development remain unparalleled. He ran the most ambitious and extensive social intervention policy designed to take the poorest of the poor out of the scourge of poverty. “Nigerians will miss me”, he said repeatedly after office.
As it is with all governments, Buhari’s immense contributions to Nigeria would be more appreciated
as Nigerians experience successive governments. The outpouring of love and emotions since the announcement of his death are indicative that in the days and years ahead, Nigerians will accord President Buhari the reverence he deserves as a disciplined, incorruptible and visionary leader. It is true that one of the most misunderstood persons that ever passed through the Nigerian landscape, yet loved unconditionally by people who appreciated honest leadership, was former President Buhari.
Have we also had time to dimension why in spite of the hesitations that some nursed against him, his followers remained solidly with and behind him till he passed on?
That’s because the Buhari you probably thought you knew was not the same man that his followers were willing to take a bullet for till he breathed his last.
Some years ago, I had cause to take him on over an issue. It was family-related. I was stunned to learn about his thinking and why he embraced a rigid position as a father and leader.
Buhari: Four Scores And Much More
Yesterday he was returned to Mother Earth where we all come from. We all will at some point. What is more important though is the impact our sojourn on earth leaves on our fellow men, on humanity and on Mother Earth. President Mohammadu Buhari certainly left his mark on these three constituencies.
As a General he left his mark of discipline and prowess and rose to the leadership of that revered institution and constituency.
He ruled Nigeria twice; once for 20 months, as Military Head of State, and the other for eight years, as a civilian President. He reached the pinnacle of political leadership in Nigeria.
As a mystic he amassed a rare unpredictable reputation, and that reputation was the backbone of his audacious popularity amongst both his supporters and non admirers. He held on to that cult personality to the end, brushing off, and largely remaining directly untainted by the sort of scandals or ratings that have dimmed the image of some leaders before him. And this was so even when in some cases close associates and appointees were being
scandalized.
It is probably not surprising that he died before much time was spent evaluating his time on the saddle of this country and before his enemies had time to wreck havoc on his reputation. That way, he left on a high note and escaped the vicious evaluations past Nigerian leaders have faced. Nigeria can be a vicious theatre and an acebic place for past leaders. And public service throws us all on the alters of intense public scrutiny so much so that many who have held public office never really recover from the vitriolic reputational bombshell thrown at them. I too have been a victim. But my attitude is to look at such experiences positively and if it raises the bar for public servants, why not?
Like every leader and public servant, President Buhari got some things right and made his fair share of mistakes. But no one can take away from this lanky gangling Mystical General and Leader, his integrity, his sincerity, and his commitment to genuine national service.
He probably realised down the track of leadership service that Nigeria and Nigerians’ expectations overwhelm their leaders and chose to do just his best. And that he did.
He was an amazing protector to those close to him and,like a lioness would give her all to protect her cubs, Buhari would do so even when sometimes that did not make sense.
He was a General looking after his troops and always prepared to leave no soldier behind. He was a man of heart. If your mistakes were honest, he took the heat for you. But if your mistakes had ulterior motives, then his vicious pangs came for you.
Even to those not his immediate constituency, he was a Father.
He spoke little, meditated a lot and often had clear opinion of his directional actions. He was not given to too much intellectualism, he called those ‘turenchi’.
He was more ready to listen to his natural and common sense intelligence and intuition and ofcourse his gut evaluation of the originator of an idea.
I knew him as my BOSS of four years 2015 -2019, and as an ENIGMA for 40 years -1985 to 2025.
In all his stilt, strict, stubborn, and selectively subdued persona, he was also a humorous person. His humor came in bits and tits, at those moments you least expected them.
Two incidents come to mind for me.
One was during one of my initial pre-appointment reviews with him. I had objected to his offer to me to become the Group Managing Director of NNPC. I preferred the Ministerial Portfolio so as to focus on policies.
‘Why don’t you want to be GMD?’ he asked me as I settled into the sofa next to him in the residential unit of the villa. This was in early June of 2015.
‘I am worried about scandals and the expectations of friends and foe. I don’t want to be tainted’
He burst into a staccato of laughter
‘You think any public office insulates you from scandal?’ And he kept laughing, stopping in between to take a sip of water.
‘If you don’t plan to do anything corrupt, scandal should not bother you. Everyone who has occupied that desk has had issues’, he continued.
‘Well, no one gets free of scandal once you come into government. Even I, as straight as I try to be, people still accuse me of all sorts and abuse me.
Ake Palace, Abeokuta, and, indeed volunteered they should kill both of us, if it came to that
Late Muhammadu Buhari
L-R: Chief Imam of Ijebu-Ode, Sheikh Miftaudeen Gbadegesin Ayanbadejo; Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun; President, Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote; Senator Lekan Mustapha; former Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo and the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwoolu, during Janazah prayer for the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona in Ijebu-Ode