Tinubu to Nigerians on 65th Independence: We Have Turned the Corner, Worst Is Finally Over
Lists 12 ‘remarkable’ economic milestones achieved in 2 years Admits biting inflation, rising cost of living still cause for concern Declares he inherited a near-collapsed economy Says states, LGs now have access to more
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
With
www.thisdaylive.com
mism, President Bola Tinubu this morning morning insisted that the sacrifices of the last
two years have started yielding results, promising that the country is now on the path of
recovery and stability. Assuring Nigerians that the nation’s economic storm
was beginning to ease, Tinubu declared that the toughest phase of the reforms was behind the
INAUGURATION OF 56 DUALISED 112KM OWERRI-UMUAHIA ROAD...
L-R: Senate President, Godswill Akpabio; Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma; President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas; Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin; and others during the inauguration of 56 Dualised 112Km Owerri-Umuahia Road, held in Imo State, yesterday
Amid Restructuring, ExxonMobil to Cut
2,000 Jobs, Chevron 20% of Workforce, BP 25% TotalEnergies to boost output, reduce $7.5bn in spending
ExxonMobil yesterday an- nounced that it will lay off 2,000 workers globally as part of a long-term restructuring plan, adding to a wave of job cuts in the oil and gas industry thisTheyear.layoffs represent about 3 per cent to 4 per cent of the company’s global workforce
and are part of an ongoing efficiency drive, the US energy major told Reuters in an emailed statement.
ExxonMobil has been streamlining its operations after closing its $60 billion purchase of Pioneer Natural Resources in 2024. In November last year, the company revealed in a filing that it would cut nearly 400 jobs in Texas.
“We’ve seen the value of bringing people together in the same location... we are aligning our global footprint with our operating model and bring- ing our teams together,” the company said in a statement.
On Monday, Canadian shale producer Imperial Oil, in which Exxon is a major shareholder, announced plans to cut 20 per cent of its workforce and shutter
business in Calgary.
Global energy companies have announced thousands of job cuts this year, as the sector navigates weaker crude oil prices and a rapid consolidation.
Chevron plans to lay off 15 per cent to 20 per cent of its global workforce, while BP has said it would cut more than 5 per cent of its jobs and
ConocoPhillips has announced it would cut 20 per cent to 25 per cent of its jobs.
US oil and gas production jobs fell by 4,700 in the first six months of this year, Texas labour market statistics showed.
It’s unclear the magnitude of impact it will have on its operations in Nigeria, where ExxonMobil has been present for more than six decades,
First Lady: Nigeria Fertile Ground for Global Partnerships
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
Wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Tuesday played host to the Russian Chapter of the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance at the State House in Abuja, where she declared Nigeria as a fertile ground for global partnerships as well as a dependable ally of the BRICS bloc.
Speaking while welcoming the delegation led by Chairperson of the Alliance, Anna Nesterova, the First Lady described Nigeria as “a very interesting place that you will find rewarding for partnerships.”
Mrs Tinubu assured the visitors of her office’s continued advocacy for women’s empower- ment and entrepreneurship while clarifying the statutory role of government ministries in driving concrete economic engagements.
According to her: “My office will continue to provide advo- cacy and encouragement, but the ministries have the statutory responsibilities and budgets to support your mission.
“I do a lot of programmes through my foundation, but when it comes to women’s
empowerment and entrepre- neurship, the ministries are the right partners. My role is to complement, advise, and facilitate”
She enumerated her humanitarian work through the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), noting personal commitments to education, women, and children.
Mrs Tinubu recalled dedicating her 65th birthday towards fundraising for a national library project and announced plans to distribute sanitary kits to schoolgirls in Gombe State as part of her outreach to rural communities.
Earlier in her remarks, Nesterova praised the First Lady as “an incredible woman who not only changes lives for the better but also paves the way for a prosperous future for the Nigerian people.”
She hinted of plans by the Alli- ance to establish a regional office in Nigeria to serve as a gateway for women entrepreneurs into international markets.
Nesterova also announced a donation of 1,000 labour and delivery kits to support maternal health in Nigeria, while highlight- ing the Alliance’s global reach:
“Our Common Digital Platform currently connects more than 3,000 businesswomen from 60 countries, and last year, the BRICS Women’s Startups Contest attracted 50 applications from Nigeria alone.”
The Russian delegation included senior executives and academics such as Ms. Liudmila Shcherbakova of VET PHARM Group, Ms. Natalia
Vershinina of United Migration Center, Prof. Liudmila Popova of Orel State University, and Ms. Anna Meshcheryakova of Third Opinion AI.
They expressed readiness to collaborate in areas ranging from pharmaceuticals and labour mobility to financial literacy and AI-driven healthcare solutions.
Following the courtesy call, the visitors joined Nigerian officials
at a technical session in the State House Banquet Hall which fo- cused on “Strengthening Bilateral Ties and Exploring Investment Opportunities between Nigeria and Russia.”
On her part, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca describedOdumegwu-Ojukwu, the engagement as a new chapter in Nigeria–Russia relations.
operating mainly through its subsidiary, Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited. The company is one of the largest oil and gas producers in the country and plays a central role in Nigeria’s upstream petroleum industry. Its opera- tions are concentrated offshore in the Niger Delta region, where it manages a series of joint venture and production sharing arrangements with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC).
Benchmark Brent crude futures are down about 10.5 per cent year-to-date, impacted by increased Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC+) output and persistent demand uncertainty tied to the US trade policy. Exxon em- ployed 61,000 people globally at the end of 2024, according to a regulatory filing.
Meanwhile, French group
TotalEnergies on Monday an- nounced plans to increase oil, gas and electricity production while cutting spending by $7.5 billion between 2026-2030.
NNPC Rallies Media Stakeholders for Continuous Cooperation, Accurate Reportage of Company’s Operations, Visits THISDAY
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has reignited its relationship and cooperation with media stakeholders, stressing the need for continuous reportage of the company’s activities objectively and accurately, while promising to step up its task of making information available to the media at all times.
The Chief Corporate Communications Officer (CCCO)
of NNPC, Mr. Andy Odeh, stated this when he paid a familiarisation visit to THISDAY Newspapers in Lagos, yesterday.
The visit was in line with the state oil firm’s effort to foster stronger collaboration and deepen the relationship between it and its esteemed mediaOdeh,partners. who came with four members of his team, was received by the Sunday Editor of THISDAY, Mr. Davidson Iriekpen, in the company of
other editors.
The CCCO promised to guarantee the free flow of communication between NNPC and THISDAY in particular and other media partners in general.
“This visit shows the kind of relationship that exists between us and the organisation. So, our coming here is purely for me to formally introduce myself and my corporate communications team to you. And to thank you for the kind of support NNPC
has received from you in the past. I look forward to working with you,” Odey said. Underscoring challenges around providing and con- firming information to the media, he attributed that to the sensitive nature of some of the information requested, especially figures, adding that this leads to delays in response. He, however, promised to ensure a marked improvement as he would ensure the communication team is reachable at all times.
Peter Uzoho
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
ATAF Hails Nigeria’s Tax Reforms as FIRS Chairman Seeks Africa’s Input in Global Agenda
James Emejo in Abuja
The African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF), yesterday thrown its weight behind Nigeria’s tax reforms which culminated in new tax laws.
The forum described the reforms as necessary for economic growth and development.
The commendation was conveyed by the recentlyinaugurated Executive Secretary of the continental body, Ms Mary Baine, during a visit to the Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji in
Abuja.
In a statement, Special Adviser on Media to the FIRS chairman, Dare Adekanmbi, Baine said ATAF stands by Nigeria in reforming its fiscal landscape and pledged the readiness of the body to give technical support in areas that would help in realising the gains of the reforms.
She referenced how the organisation had helped Zambia to build capacity in the area of raising revenue from mining, promising to offer support to Nigeria in the same area.
According to her, ATAF is
willing to leverage Nigeria’s continental and global influ- ence to mobilise membercountries to strengthen the organisation.
She said, “When you look at the strategic vision of FIRS, we see the things you are doing and the way you’re changing the tax system, the kind of reforms and the time that it has taken and of course the movement forward.
“So, we applaud you, and I wanted to say that ATAF is here to say that we stand with you, we applaud you, and we’re ready to provide whatever support that could
lead to its success.
“In terms of your strategic vision— people, technology and data, we find that this is something that is really critical for the rest of the continent and that it is an area where ATAF will be happy to support as well.”
However, while welcoming the visitors, the FIRS chairman, expressed confidence in the capacity of the Executive Secretary to lead ATAF to glory.
He charged Africans to look inwards for homegrown solutions to challenges, stressing
that salvation cannot come from the Western world.
Adedeji said, “My belief has always been that solutions to Africa’s challenges can only come from Africa. There is no free lunch anywhere. I have said that I don’t believe in aids; I believe in cooperation.
“So, the expectation from us as a continent is also to bring what we can contribute to the work, most especially in tax matters. For us, we have to evolve our own fiscal policies which is what Nigeria has done with the new tax laws.
“Before now, we had tax laws were colonial relics.
T I nubu T o nI ger IA n S on 65 TH In D epen D ence: We H Ave Turne D TH e c orner, Wor ST I S F I n A llY o ver for their endurance, support, and understanding.
In a nationwide broadcast on the occasion of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, the President recalled that he inherited a near-collapsed economy when he took over the reins of power on May 29, 2023, but declared that the nation has finally turned the corner.
Tinubu stressed that as a result of the tough decisions his administration made, the federal and state governments, including local governments, now have more resources to take care of the people at the lower level of the ladder and to address their development challenges.
“Upon assuming office, our administration inherited a near-collapsed economy caused by decades of fiscal policy distortions and misalignment that had impaired real growth. As a new administration, we faced a simple choice: continue business as usual and watch our nation drift, or embark on a courageous, fundamental reform path. We chose the path of reform. We chose the path of tomorrow over the comfort of today. Less than three years later, the seeds of those difficult
but necessary decisions are bearing fruit.
“In resetting our country for sustainable growth, we ended the corrupt fuel subsidies and multiple foreign exchange rates that created massive incentives for a rentier economy, benefiting only a tiny minority. At the same time, the masses received little or nothing from our Com- monwealth. Our administration has redirected the economy towards a more inclusive path, channelling money to fund education, healthcare, national security, agriculture, and critical economic infrastructure, such as roads, power, broadband, and social investment programmes.
“ These initiatives will generally improve Nigerians’ quality of life. As a result of the tough decisions we made, the federal and state governments, including local governments, now have more resources to take care of the people at the lower level of the ladder, to address our development challenges,”
Tinubu emphasised.
Pointing out that Nigeria was racing against time, the Nigerian leader maintained that the country must build the roads it needs, repair the ones that have become decrepit, and construct the schools the
children will attend and the hospitals that will care for the people.Tinubu stated that his administration was making plans for the generations, lamenting that Nigeria does not have enough electricity to power its industries and homes today, or the resources to repair its deteriorating roads, build seaports, railroads, and international airports comparable to the best in the world, because it failed to make the necessary investments decades ago.
He added: “Our administration is setting things right. I am pleased to report that we have finally turned the corner. The worst is over, I say. Yesterday’s pains are giving way to relief. I salute your endurance, support, and understanding. I will continue to work for you and justify the confidence you reposed in me to steer the ship of our nation to a safe harbour.”
Under his leadership, Tinubu said that the economy is recovering fast, and the reforms he started over two years ago are delivering tangible results.
According to him, the second quarter 2025 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by 4.23 per cent—Nigeria’s fastest pace
in four years—and outpaced the 3.4 per cent projected by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Besides, the President boasted that inflation declined to 20.12 per cent in August 2025, the lowest level in three years, while the administration is working diligently to boost agricultural production and ensure food security, reducing food costs.
The President listed what he characterised as ‘12 remarkable economic milestones’ as a result of the implementation of sound fiscal and monetary policies by his government.
“We have attained a recordbreaking increase in non-oil revenue, achieving the 2025 target by August with over N20 trillion. In September 2025 alone, we raised N3.65 trillion, 411 per cent higher than the amount raised in May 2023.
“We have restored Fiscal Health: Our debt serviceto-revenue ratio has been significantly reduced from 97 per cent to below 50 per cent. We have paid down the infamous ‘Ways and Means’ advances that threatened our economic stability and triggered inflation. Following the removal of the corrupt pe- troleum subsidy, we have freed
Cardoso to Deliver Maiden NextGeneration Leadership Lecture Series Friday
The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, will deliver a landmark lecture titled, “Next Generation Leadership in Monetary Policy and Nation Building,” at Lagos Business School on October 3, 2025.
The lecture marks the launch of the CBN Governor’s Lecture Series, the first in a series of thought-leadership discourses to be held in collaboration with leading tertiary institutions across the country over the next three years.
According to a statement by
the apex bank, the inaugural edition also commemorates the second anniversary of Team Cardoso’s leadership at the CBN, a period defined by renewed focus on price stability, institutional transparency, and anchoring monetary policy to the everyday realities of Nigerians.
The Governor’s Lecture Series, part of Cardoso’s broader Knowledge Acceleration and Thought Leadership Initiative, is central to the CBN’s strategy of deepening public understanding and strengthening the transmission of monetary policy, the bank added.
It aims to foster dialogue, promote innovation, and advance an inclusive financial system that works for all Nigerians, while positioning the country as a leader on both the African and global stages. Since assuming office in September 2023, the central bank governor has consistently emphasised linking apex banking industry regulator to the daily realities of citizens.
Cardoso had stressed that the bank’s core mandate -safeguarding price stability - was essential to driving sustainable economic growth and protecting livelihoods.
In his earlier intervention, the CBN governor stated, “Nigeria is at a pivotal moment, where technology, global financial realignments, and the energy of its youthful population are reshaping its economic future. Innovation must be harnessed intentionally and confidently, particularly by institutions like the CBN.”
However, the lecture is expected to attract senior policymakers, industry lead- ers, academics, and students, underscoring the crucial role of monetary policy in fostering stability, growth, and national development.
up trillions of Naira for targeted investment in the real economy and social programmes for the most vulnerable, as well as all tiers of government.
“We have a stronger foreign reserve position than three years ago. Our external reserves increased to $42.03 billion this September—the highest since 2019.
“Our tax-to-GDP ratio has risen to 13.5 per cent from less than 10 per cent. The ratio is expected to increase further when the new tax law takes effect in January. The tax law is not about increasing the burden on existing taxpayers but about expanding the base to build the Nigeria we deserve and providing tax relief to low-income earners,” Tinubu stressed.
According to him, Nigeria is now a net exporter, recording a trade surplus for five consecutive quarters, and is now selling more to the world than it is buying, a fundamental shift that strengthens the nation’s currency and creates jobs at home.
Nigeria’s trade surplus, the President stressed, increased by 44.3 per cent in Q2, 2025 to N7.46 trillion ($4.74 billion), the largest in about three years as goods manufactured in Nigeria and exported jumped by 173 perIncent. the same vein, he stated that non-oil exports, as a component of Nigeria’s export trade, now represent 48 per cent, compared to oil exports, which account for 52 per cent, signalling that the country is diversifying its economy and foreign exchange sources outside oil and gas.
In the energy sector, he affirmed that oil production rebounded to 1.68 million barrels per day from barely 1 million in May 2023, attributing the increase to improved security, new investments, and better stakeholder management in the Niger Furthermore,Delta. he said that the country has made notable advancements by refining petrol domestically for the first time in four decades and
has also established itself as the continent’s leading exporter of aviation fuel.
“The Naira has stabilised from the turbulence and volatility witnessed in 2023 and 2024. The gap between the official rate and the unofficial market has reduced substantially, following FX reforms and fresh capital and remittance inflows. The multiple exchange rates, which fostered corruption and arbitrage, are now part of history. Additionally, our currency rate against the dollar is no longer determined by fluctuations in crude oil prices.
“Under the social investment programme to support poor households and vulnerable Nigerians, N330 billion has been disbursed to 8 million households, many of whom have received either one or two out of the three tranches of N25,000 each.
“Coal mining recovered dramatically from a 22 per cent decline in Q1 to 57.5 per cent growth in Q2, becoming one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing sectors. The solid mineral sector is now pivotal in our economy, encouraging valueadded production of minerals extracted from our soil,” he noted.
Tinubu said the current administration was expanding transport infrastructure across the country, covering rail, roads, airports, and seaports, revealing that rail and water transport grew by over 40 per cent and 27 per cent, respectively.
On the 284-kilometre KanoKastina-Maradi Standard Gauge rail project and the Kaduna-Kano rail line, he stated that these infrastructure were nearing completion, while work is progressing well on the legacy Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and Sokoto-Badagry Highway.
According to him, the Fed- eral Executive Council (FEC) recently approved $3 billion to complete the Eastern Rail Project.Tinubu stated that the world has started taking notice of
We had Stamp Duties Act of 1939 which was enacted when there was no internet.”
Dr. Zacch Adedeji
James Emejo in Abuja
When
President Bola Tinubu
p
N 5 4 9 9 t r n 2 0 2 5
d g e t proposal (which he tagged 'Budget of R e s t o r a t
Assembly in February this year, he promised that discipline, focus and diligence would be the benchmarks for its implementation. Reflecting on the previous budget cycle, he said, “The p
y deemed impossible. After the initial turbulent take-off, our people can see signs of progress and the promise of a better future. Our economy is turning the corner.”
Is the President's assessment correct? Is the Nigerian economy turning the corner?
Even a casual observer of the Nigerian economy's macro trajectory, at least in the past one year, can testify that, yes, it i s w i t n e s s i n g t h e m a k
o f a resurgence. While there is no denying that the initial challenges were brutal (
m i r a c l e s t h a t a r e g r a d u a l l y transforming its financial landscape. This much was recently affirmed by two renowned Nigerian economists – in the persons of Dr. Ngozi OkonjoI w e a l a , D G a t t h e W o r l d T r a d e Organization (WTO); and the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Dr. Chukwuma Soludo, who
c u r r e n t l y s e r v e s a s G o v e r n o r o f Anambra State. In a recent address in Lagos, Soludo declared that the Tinubu administration had salvaged Nigeria's public finances from the brink of collapse. “The audacious structural reforms,” “have rescued the he said,
e c o n o m y f r o m t h e t i p p i n g p o i n t . ”
Under Tinubu, he added, the nation's public finances are back on the path of s o l v e n c y , w i t h i t s m a c r o e c o n o m i c fundamentals recovering positively.
O n h e r p a r t , D r O k o n j o - I w e a l a commended Tinubu for working to stabilize Nigeria's economy, saying reforms under his administration were “moving in the right direction.” She stressed that this economic stability – if c o m p l e m e n t e d b y t a rg e t e d g r o w t h policies and robust safety nets – would be critical to job creation and poverty reduction.
I n v i e w o f t h e f o r e g o i n g , w h a t , precisely, has the President achieved? Analysts have identified 10 key areas in which the President's policies have recorded the most significant positive impact:
● Increase in Crude Oil Production: For the first time in over a decade, oil production rebounded to the point where Nigeria was able to surpass its production quota as stipulated by the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) for three consecutive months, producing an average of 1.71 million barrels per day – a development which has so far fueled a 20.46% growth in the oil sector.
● The Central Reduced Interest Rates: Bank of Nigeria (CBN) slashed interest rates for the first time in five years, as a demonstration of confidence in the country's macro-economic indices.
● In a historic first, Record Revenues: Nigeria achieved its revenue target for
PREVENTING THE HOUSE FROM FALLING
Ten Key Economic Achievements of the Tinubu Administration
By Keem Abdul
the entire year back in August. This is part of an overall growth trajectory that has seen the country's Q2 2025 growth hit a high of 4.23% - outpacing the
Monetary Fund (IMF). Reflecting on this milestone, analysts note that the bulk of the revenue came from the nonoil sector, describing it as the result of
focused on stimulating said sector.
● E x p a n s i o n o f
Infrastructure: The nation's transport i
significantly – especially in the areas of rail and water transport, which grew by 40% and 20% respectively.
● Speaking Decreased Food Prices: about easing inflation, food prices reduced significantly, by over 20.12% in S
6 % decrease from 21.88% from only the last month. Overall, inflation cooled to 20.12%, its lowest level in in over three months – continuing a five-month uninterrupted spell.
● MTN Nigeria's Record Valuation: MTN Nigeria Communications Plc hit a market capitalization of �10.1 trillion ( $ 6 5 2 b i l l i o n ) , b e c o m i n g o n l y t h e second-ever company listed on the N i g e r i a n E x c h a n g e L i m i t e d ( a f t e r Dangote Cement), to cross the �10 trillion mark. Analysts attributed the surge to renewed investor confidence, strong earnings, consistent dividend p a y o u t s , a n d i n c r e a s e d d a t a consumption. In line with the Tinubu administration's calls for a more robust partnership with the private sector, MTN has also expanded its investments in network infrastructure and fintech services.
● Dangote Fuel Price Reduction: Refinery has not only lowered fuel p r i c e s t o 8 4 1 p e r l i t r e , b u t t h e company also plans the rollout of direct fuel distribution to 11 states with effect from Monday, September 15, 2025 – in a b i d t o e n h a n c e f u e l d i s t r i b u t i o n efficiency.
● T h e 3 % N a i r a A p p r e c i a t i o n : appreciation of the naira in September (to �1497 to $1) is a five-month high, and it is as a result of bold foreign exchange reforms which are attracting fresh capital inflows, especially from foreign investors.
● As of Increased Foreign Reserves: S e p t e m b e r 2 0 2 5 , N i g e r i a ' s e x t e r n a l reserves surged to $42.03 bn, marking the highest level since 2019, covering e i g h t m o n t h s o f i m p o r t s – a development analysts have described as a watershed moment for economic recovery and stakeholder confidence.
● Nigeria's Record Trade Surplus: trade surplus rose 44.3% in Q2 2025 to �7.46 trillion (up from �5.17 trillion in Q1) to N7.46tr (about $4,74bn) – the largest in three years. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), exports rose by 16.6% to �22.75 trillion, while imports increased to 15 28 trillion. As earlier mentioned, non-oil exports showed remarkable resilience –with agriculture rising by 15% and manufactured goods climbing by 173%, r e f l e c t i n g a g r a d u a l b u t s t e a d y progression in the administration's diversification drive. Trade with the P e o p l e ' s R e p u b l i c o f C h i n a , i n particular, surged to almost $16bn in the first seven months of 2025 – i.e. 35% year-on-year surge. As part of the
government's diversification drive, coal mining recovered dramatically from its -22% decline by Q1 to a +57.5% growth in Q2 – making that sector one of Nigeria's fastest growing.
In response to this growth, and what it promises for the overall economy, the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NGX), for the
130,147.57 All Share Index points. This s
confidence in the Nigerian economy, the easing of inflation, and overall industrial resilience, especially with big gains from cement giants like BUA Cement (+10%) and Dangote Cement (+9.99%).
In all, President Tinubu has flagged off a defining chapter in Nigeria's h
courageous reforms and the relentless pursuit of progress in the face of socioeconomic (and political) headwinds. In naming him its in “Man of the Year,”
President Tinubu cannot be accused of lacking courage to take tough decisions or the will to stay the course.”
As he continues on this course, one thing is clear: this Presidency is defined not by rhetoric, but by results. On all the r
Nigeria's challenges with clarity and conviction. But the change he seeks
participation of all Nigerians, whatever their background or walk of life. This is the time to rise beyond cynicism and second-guessing, to see the big picture, and to contribute to a cause greater than each one of us.
The road may be rough, but this house of Nigeria cannot – and will not – fall. The country's economic momentum is undeniable At long last, Nigeria's developmental curve is once again on an upward trajectory, and the future shines with dazzling promise.
Golden Penny Foods Limited
Apapa Bulk Terminal Limited
Freedom. Identity. Prosperity.
Nigerian Modernism is more than art - it is a movement shaped by vision, freedom, and identit y
This landmark exhibition showcases five decades of Nigeria’s artistic excellence, capturing the soul of our independent nation. In partnership with Tate, Access Holdings and Coronation Group proudly share this legacy with the world.
As custodians of Africa’s financial and cultural wealth, we believe prosperit y begins by embracing our rich heritage Nigerian Modernism honours the past, inspires the future, and celebrates the enduring power of culture to shape generations to come
Exhibition Details
7 October 2025 - 10 May 2026
Tate Modern, Bankside, SE1 9TG, London
tate org.uk | accessholdingsplc com | coronation.ng
65th Independence Anniversary!
T h e N i g e r i a n I n d e p e n d e n t S y s t e m Operator joins the nation in celebrating 65 years of unit y, resilience, and progress.
As we mark this milestone, we reaffirm o u r c o m m i t m e n t t o t r a n s p a r e n c y , accountabilit y, and excellence in driving s t a b i l i t y a n d e ffi c i e n c y i n t h e N i g e r i a Elec tricit y Supply I ndustr y (NESI).
Together, we can make N igeria a great nation.
Happy I ndependence Day!
CELEBRATING NIGERIA AT 65
Today, we salute the resilience and enterprise of our people. As our nation turns 65, the N igeria Social I nsurance Trust Fund renews its pledge to safeguard ever y N igerian worker through the Employees' Compensation Scheme, suppor t families when injuries occur, and champion safer work places in ever y sec tor.
Work ing with labour, employers and government, we will expand coverage, improve ser vice and keep prevention at the hear t of national produc tivit y.
PRESS STATEMENT
CRUDE OIL REFINERIES OWNERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (CORAN)
WHY THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT MUST INTERVENE TO PROTECT LOCAL REFINERIES AND SAFEGUARD NIGERIA'S ENERGY SECURITY
We, the Cr de Oil Refineries O ners Associa on of N i g e r i a ( C O R A N ) i s h e s t o ra i s e r g e n t a l a r m o e r escala ng disp tes in Nigeria's petrole m sector This disp te relates to disagreements bet een ke pla ers in the sector, majorl PENGASSAN, NUPENG and DAPPMAN, and the Dangote Refiner We hold the ie that nless s i�l resol ed; these crises ill con n e to threaten the s r i al of pri ate refineries, ca se serio s energ instabilit , and grossl affect the elfare of millions of Nigerians.
In response to its disagreement ith Dangote Refiner o er Labo r ma ers, PENGASSAN has ordered its branches to halt cr de and gas s ppl to the Dangote refiner and declared a na on ide strike from September , On its part, Dangote management insists PENGASSAN has no a thorit to interfere in s ppl contracts, describing the ac on as “economic sabotage.”
If this sh tdo n b PENGASSAN con n es, Nigeria ill be faced ith an immediate f el shortage that ill res lt in soaring p mp prices, and collapsed of en re s ppl al e chain. Be ond this, in estor confidence in the refining sector ill be se erel damaged.
O n DA P P M A N , t h e b o d re p re s e n n g d e p o t o n e rs a n d marketers, a breakdo n in refiner –marketer coopera on risks fragmen ng the distrib on net ork, stoking scarcit , and pro oking reg lator inter en on that co ld destabili e pri ate refining opera ons na on ide.
Wh This Ma ers for Nigeria's Energ F t re:
These disp tes, if le� nchecked, co ld nleash the follo ing conseq ences
( ) Energ insec rit ith F el q e es, scarcit , and higher prices for petrole m prod cts likel to be the o tcome
( ) In estment flight: Pri ate refiner projects alread face reg lator , cr de s ppl and fore press res. In estor appe te ill collapse if refiner opera ons can be sabotaged b nions and al e chain operators. No foreign in estor o ld ant to p t their mone in an en ironment here nions are allo ed to nilaterall sh tdo n b sinesses
( ) Economic shocks: Rising transport and prod c on costs ill orsen infla on and cripple compe eness.
( ) Weakened opera ng en ironment: Allo ing third par es to disr pt e is ng contracts bet een refineries and s ppliers of essen al opera onal ra materials ndermines o r
energ sec rit and sector stabilit hich ill res lt in a eakened opera onal en ironment.
CORAN's Appeal
We call on the Federal Go ernment to immediatel :
. Assert the r le fair pla and restore sanit in the ind str : No nion or gro p of indi id als or nions sho ld ha e the po er to nilaterall block cr de or gas s ppl to an local refiner in breach of e is ng contracts.
. Order a ne tral probe: In es gate all claims and co nter –claims ith a ie of reaching amicable resol ons.
. Con ene an emergenc dialog e: Bring together all pla ers in the oil and gas and refiner al e chain to nego ate a binding resol on that protects s ppl , in estment, and the na onal interest hile preser ing energ sec rit and s fficienc
Nigeria cannot afford to ha e its oil ind str opera ons held hostage b nending disp tes. The s r i al of pri ate refineries is ital for na onal self-s fficienc , economic health, and the ellb e i n g o f e e r N i g e r i a n h o s e h o l d We r g e t h e F e d e r a l Go ernment to act decisi el , impar all , and itho t dela
T h e C r d e O il Refi n er ies A s s o c ia o n o f Niger ia ( CO R A N) , it h members comprising of all pri ate and locall o ned refiners in Nigeria, b this statement, calls on the Federal Go ernment of Nigeria to rgentl inter ene in safeg arding the emerging refiner ind str , hich toda stands as one of the most strategic pillars of o r na onal econom and the most iable ke to energ sec rit
Pri ate refiner operators ha e in ested significantl , o�en ith scarce d i r e c t e q i t i n e s t m e n t , t o h e l p N i g e r i a a c h i e e e n e r g independence and red ce reliance on costl petrole m prod ct imports and thereb sa ing the federal the fore that o ld ha e been sed to import petrole m prod cts.
Ho e er, these refineries face n mero s challenges that threaten their s r i al, ranging from the i n a c c e s s i b i l i t o f c r d e o i l feedstock, some reg lator challenges and diffic lt b siness en ironment, as ell as the disr p e ac ons of ested interests that ma prefer a con n a on of the old order of import dependence.
PRIVATE REFINERIES SHOULDN'T BE SABOTAGED OR ALLOWED TO FAIL!
SIGNED: ECHE IDOKO PUBLICITY SECRETARY CRUDE OIL REFINERIES OWNERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (CORAN)
BUILDING A LEGACY OF INNOVATION, QUALITY, AND PURPOSE IN NIGERIA
As Nigeria marks another milestone in its journey toward economic independence, innovation, and inclusive growth, it is important to celebrate the institutions that continue to reflect the resilience and ambition of our nation. One such company is Mouka Limited, Nigeria’s leading brand in the foam and bedding industry. From humble beginnings to becoming a proudly Nigerian company with global partnerships and ambitions, Mouka represents the very ideals Independence Day celebrates: local enterprise, strategic growth, and people-first innovation. At the helm of this transformation is Mr. Femi Fapohunda, Managing Director of Mouka Limited. With a career that spans over three decades, Mr. Fapohunda brings a wealth of experience from across Nigeria’s manufacturing sector. Beginning his career at PZ Cussons Nigeria in 1991, he rose through the ranks, navigating key sectors like supply chain management, lean manufacturing, and project execution. By the time he joined Mouka in 2012, he was already known for his results-driven leadership and a deep commitment to value creation. “I was drawn to Mouka because of its purpose-driven culture,” Mr. Fapohunda shares. “Here, innovation, people development, and operational excellence are not buzzwords; they’re embedded in everything we do.”
A Track Record of Excellence
Under Mr. Fapohunda’s leadership, Mouka has achieved several industrydefining milestones. The company earned its first Integrated Management System (IMS) certification, including ISO 9001 for quality, ISO 14001 for environment, and ISO 45001 for occupational health and safety. These certifications speak to Mouka’s commitment to structured growth and global best practices.
Mouka’s emphasis on employee well-being and safety has also been nationally recognised. The company received a Peugeot Ambulance from the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment after a top performance in a nationwide Occupational Safety and Health audit. “Our safety slogan is ‘Safety first, safety always,’ and we live by it daily,” says Mr. Fapohunda. Mouka is also the only brand in Nigeria’s bedding industry to be endorsed by both the Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy (NSP) and the National Association of Orthopaedic and Manual Therapists (NAOMT). These endorsements followed rigorous evaluations of its quality systems and ergonomic standards, setting Mouka apart as a health-conscious, qualityfirst manufacturer.
Innovation as a Way of Life
“Innovation isn’t just a function, it’s a mindset,” Mr. Fapohunda asserts. “It defines how we think, how we operate, and how we serve Nigerians.”
This approach is evident in Mouka’s product portfolio, which includes groundbreaking offerings such as the Mouka Bio-Pillow, infused with biocrystal technology to relieve stress and improve sleep quality, and the Royal Pillow Top mattress, an exclusive product intricately designed for consumers seeking luxurious comfort.
Mouka’s investment in Research & Development (R&D) ensures that at least one new product is launched every quarter, with each product rooted in consumer insight and scientific research. “We don't innovate for novelty’s sake, we innovate to improve lives,” he explains
Reaching Every Nigerian, Responsibly
With factories strategically located in Lagos, Benin, and Kaduna, and over 4,000 retail outlets nationwide, Mouka is the most visible bedding brand in Nigeria. However, scale has not come at the expense of quality.
“We’ve built an ecosystem where scale meets precision,” says Mr. Fapohunda. Every Mouka factory is ISO-certified and adheres strictly to SON and MANCAP regulations. Additionally, digital inventory systems and real-time logistics networks ensure prompt and efficient delivery across Nigeria.
The company’s operational efficiency is also strengthened by its membership in the Dolidol International Group, a pan-African sleep solutions conglomerate headquartered in Morocco. Since Mouka joined the group in 2021, it has benefited from advanced technology, backward integration, and international best practices in manufacturing and logistics.
Corporate Responsibility at Its Core
Beyond products, Mouka is deeply invested in creating value for society. It has recently redefined its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy around five pillars. The first is “Skills for Life”, which includes scholarships for top-performing students and business grants for entrepreneurial mothers. The second is “Children in Need”, focused on supporting orphanages and underserved schools. Third is “Health Programs,” which involves donations to hospitals and clinics. Fourth is “Disaster & Victim Support”, offering relief to victims of domestic violence and natural disasters. While the last is “Community Support”,which involves funding infrastructure projects such as boreholes and roads in host communities.“At Mouka, we believe that a business thrives when the communities around it thrive,” says Mr. Fapohunda.
A Vision for National and Continental Growth
Mouka enjoys a global partnership through its parent company, Dolidol, with established operations in Côte d’Ivoire, West Africa, and a strategic acquisition in the Middle East, covering the UAE and Saudi Arabia. This gives the company the advantage of shared expertise, strong supply chain integration, and local market knowledge, all of which accelerate our ability to scale effectively.
The partnership has also led to strategic collaborations within Nigeria, most notably with Oyo State, where a Memorandum of Cooperation has been signed to pursue industrial and agricultural projects. “Governor Makinde’s vision for sustainable growth aligns perfectly with ours,” Mr. Fapohunda adds.
Internally, Mouka continues to prioritise talent development, recently winning the CIPM Award for HR Best Practices in Manufacturing for the third consecutive year. “Our people are our greatest asset,” says Mr. Fapohunda.
Building a Future-Ready Nigeria
Looking to the future, Mr. Fapohunda is clear-eyed about where the greatest opportunities lie: manufacturing and agriculture. He also sees renewable energy and lithium processing for battery production as gamechangers. “Nigeria has the raw materials. What we need is value addition, smart processing, and stakeholder collaboration.”
To international investors, his message is optimistic but grounded: “Nigeria is not without its challenges, but it is full of opportunity. With the right partners and a long-term perspective, returns can be significant.”
Leading with Purpose
As Nigeria continues its journey toward self-reliance, the story of Mouka stands out as one of innovation, resilience, and national pride.
“My greatest legacy would be that Mouka remained true to its mission: enhancing lives through better sleep, empowering communities, and driving Nigeria’s growth story,” the MD concludes.
On this Independence Day, Mouka’s journey serves as a reminder of what’s possible when leadership, innovation, and purpose come together in the service of nation-building.
Happy Independence Day, Nigeria.
Sleep well, dream big, the future is ours.
WEST AFRICAN EXAMINATIONS COUNCIL RESULTS MAY/JUNE 2025
Emmanuella Comfort OZE
OUR OUTSTANDING SCHOLARS
Ifunanya Joyce ONAGA TWO AWARDS:
Moboluwaduro Olajire ASALU
Ayomikun Chiamaka ADEKEYE
Celebrating Excellence at James Hope College, Lekki, Lagos
L-R: Chief Technical Officer, Lekoil Nigeria Limited, Sam Olotu; Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Gbenga Komolafe; and General Manager, Corporate Communications, Lekoil Nigeria Limited, Hamilton Esi, during the recent Africa Oil Week (AOW) 2025 held in Accra, Ghana… recently
L-R: President Bola Tinubu; Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja; and Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, during the coronation of the 44th Olubadan of lbadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, in lbadan, Oyo State... recently
Technical Assistant to the Managing Director/CEO, Bank of Industry, Aderonke Akinluyi, delivering a presentation on Financial Literacy to students of Elegbata Senior High School, Lagos Island, as part of the activities by Bank of Industry’s Youth and Skills Thematic Champions, to celebrate the 2025 International Youth Day in Lagos... recently
Vice President Yemi
Team member, Management Services, Bank of Industry, Olashope Dosumu, delivering a presentation on Financial Literacy to SS3 students of Eko-Akete Senior Grammar School, Lagos Island, as part of the activities by bank’s Youth and Skills Thematic Champions to celebrate the 2025 International Youth Day in Lagos... recently
Dr.
Director
Strategy,
investment
Erstwhile
Osinbajo (left), in handshake with a wellmeaning Nigerian, Ohima Agans-Oliha, at the Visions of Africa event held at the Columbia Business School, New York, United State of America… recently
L-R: Vice President and Executive Director of Cavista Holdings, Olumide Olayomi; Executive Vice Chairman, COODSynergn Oil and Energy Group, Dr. Olugbenga Odusanya; guest, Jumoke Olanipekun; Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State; Chairman, O’dua Group, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru; Special Adviser on SDG’s Lagos State
Oreoluwa Finnih; and
of
Cavista Holdings, Kabir Shagaya, during Cavista celebration of
at the UNGA 80 in New York, United States of America… recently
Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE
Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com
08033025611 sms only
65 Years On, Nigerians Yearn for Improved Justice Delivery System
Despite remarkable achievements in the justice sector since nigeria attained independence on October 1, 1960, the saying that the judiciary is the last hope of the common man still remains elusive, writes Alex Enumah.
No doubt Nigeria’s judiciary has evolved since independence, especially in the past few years, owing to the deployment of technology. From its independence from the United Kingdom in 1960, when the Supreme Court of Nigeria became the final court of all appeals, to the creation of courts across the nooks and crannies of Nigeria, efforts have been on to ensure Nigerians in need of justice not only have access to justice but equally get the justice they so desire.
Besides the creation of magistrate courts, customary and sharia courts to meet the justice needs of the people, the judiciary ensure the establishment of divisions of the Federal High Court in all states of the federation to attend to judicial issues outside the jurisdiction of states High Court.
In terms of appeals, the judiciary is also pursuing the creation of divisions of the Court of Appeal in all states of the federation, due to the litigious nature of Nigerians who have the penchant of pursuing all cases to the Supreme Court.
In her remarks on Monday at the opening of the 2025/2026 new legal year of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun listed achievements of the apex court to include infrastructural development and digitization of courts to ensure speedy dispensation of justice.
Despite all these achievements, many Nigerians feel the judiciary is still very far from meeting their expectations, especially in terms of justice delivery. In a remark at the 2025 Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Saad Abubakar, lamented that justice is increasingly getting out of the reach of the poor. According to the Sultan, the integrity of the judicial system is daily being undermined by corruption and inequality. In his words, “Today, justice is increasingly becoming a purchasable commodity, and the poor are becoming victims of this kind of justice, while the rich commit all manner of crime and walk the streets scot-free”.
While observing that justice is the foundation of any stable society, the Sultan urged that law must always target justice as its ultimate goal. “Three things are particularly important: continuing efforts at law reforms to gradually decolonise our laws and make them closer to our values, culture and history; addressing social justice to tackle glaring inequalities and foster cohesion; and improving access to justice, especially considering the rising cost of litigation and the exclusion of the weak and vulnerable,” he had stated.
Few months back, former Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo (SAN) had observed that a consistent problem with the country’s legal system has been, “how to make sure that our cases go quickly through the courts, especially civil cases”.
Putting into perspective how the country’s legal system is seen outside Nigeria, Osinbajo recalled a Court of Appeal in England, which had held that “to leave a case brought before it in the hands of Nigerian courts would be catastrophic”, because it takes between 20 to 30 years to conclude a civil case in Nigeria.
“I think that aside from the fact that it is a very sad commentary on our
judicial system, our administrative justice system, it also shows that we have a human problem that can be solved. It is not a supernatural issue or anything like that. It can be resolved.
“And I think that the effort that we need to put into resolving it is one that we must all address our minds to”.
Also speaking at the same occasion with the former Vice President, a former Justice of the Court of Appeal, Justice Adefope-Okojie, had warned that the judiciary today, “is almost comatose”, adding that what is happening in the country can no longer be tolerated because “people have lost interest in the court”.
She lamented that the judiciary which is the most powerful arm of government is fast becoming a weakling and being pushed about by politicians. “The judiciary has the power to give life and take it, determines who becomes president, governor and even lawmaker”, she said, but has not been able to do so much.
Justice Adefope-Okojie, who decried the high number of backlog cases, pointed out that, “nobody is going to come to a country where the judicial system is not working, where disputes take forever to be resolved, nobody is coming there”. According to her, Nigeria is not among the top 10 African countries for investment because because of issues like low integrity, speed of adjudication, independence, adherence to human rights,
The long period it takes to resolve legal issues remain the bane of the county’s judiciary. Truth be told, we are yet to have the judiciary of our dream in this country. The judicial system is fraught with a lot of problems. Principal among this is the inordinate number of years it takes to get a matter disposed of. It is a truism that justice delayed is justice denied.
among others.
While she challenged judicial officers to replicate the courage, boldness and integrity of past judicial officers, who stood on the side of justice and the people against totalitarian administrations in times past, Adefope-Okojie, charged the National Judicial Council (NJC), to always protect judges who are defending the people against the system.
Speaking only few days back at the Supreme Court, President of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Mazi Afam Osigwe (SAN) pointed out that the judiciary needs to do more work about changing the negative perception of the judiciary.
“Public confidence in the judiciary may have plummeted, but we can reverse many of the negative perceptions in this legal year”, Osigwe had said. While recalling that the judiciary was hailed for being the bastion of the rule of law in the beginning of the Fourth democratic dispensation for giving sound and timeous judgments he decried the slow peace of the judiciary in justice delivery of recent.
He said, “This Court successfully handled over 1,000 pre- and post-election cases within 60 days of the filing of the Notice of Appeal. In the speech by President Bola Tinubu, declaring the end of the State of Emergency in Rivers State, the President said there were no less than 40 cases instituted before various Courts including this Court challenging the declaration of emergency.
“It is really troubling that only one of the cases was decided before the expiration of the State of Emergency. The one initiated before this Court does not have a hearing date even after the expiration of the six months period”.
The NBA president also regretted that the last time a State of Emergency was declared in Plateau State, it took the apex court more than two years to decide the matter. He pointed out that as at the time the judgment was delivered, the people of Plateau State had forgotten that a State of Emergency was
Justice Kekere-Ekun
Fagbemi
osigwe
Stepping Up Gov Oyebanji’s Re-election Bid in Ekiti
In a clear demonstration of love and support for Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s second term bid, e kiti state people, regardless of their class, age and political affliation are already boosting his campaign. Raheem Akingbolu writes.
In what could be likened to the Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) days, when party members, who neither held political office, nor received any patronage from government, contributed from their hard-earned resources to finance party activities, Ekiti people, especially petty traders, retirees and artisans have started following the old order to demonstrate their love for Governor Biodun Oyebanji.
As the call on the Ikogosi Ekiti-born Oyebanji to go for a second term gains momentum, the campaign appears to have taken an unprecedented trend across the 16 local government areas of the State. At the beginning, it was a mere word of mouth, with people hailing the Governor and his wife anytime their convoys passed through their areas. Though till date, the hailing of BAO! BAO! on the streets still continues, it has dovetailed into other developments.
In recent times, the people have taken it a notch higher, considering the activities in all the towns and villages in Ekiti State.
From Igbara-Odo to Ilawe, Ifaki to Ikole, Efon Alaaye to Igede, the story is the same. The campaign has come full-blown as people are now using their money to print posters and other campaign materials to drum up their support for Oyebanji.
At Odo Ekiti, a small community, sandwiched between Ilawe and Ado Ekiti, almost all the business ventures along the road have customized posters of Oyebanji with patronising messages. Mrs. Victoria Audu, a hair stylist, was excited when she was approached to hear her view about the development.
“As a patriotic citizen, I consider what I put in in-front of my shop as my own little way of encouraging and appreciating our dear Governor. When a leader performs poorly, we condemn, now that we have someone who aligns with our aspiration, I think we should be able to commend, appreciate and endorse. All we are saying is that BAO should come back and govern for the second term,” Audu said.
In Iyin Ekiti, a petty trader, Madam Faith Mulikat Mustapha, on a daily basis, leverages her shop closeness to WEMA Bank and the ATM point to preach the ‘gospel’ according to BAO. “I feel the impact of Governor Oyebanji in many ways but top among them is the multiplying effect of his policies. Yes, I’m not a civil servant but because the Governor is paying the civil servants well, those of us who are into ‘buying and selling’ are also enjoying a boom and not being owed.”
If Mrs. Mustapha’s experience is based on how payment of salary is rubbing off positively on the market, Mrs. Bose Akomolafe, a civil servant and member of Association of Medical and Health Workers for BAO wears two caps. Akomolafe, an accounting officer with the General Hospital, Iyin Ekiti, also runs a Chemist Shop in the ancient town and so enjoys both prompt salary payment and good patronage in her shop.
According to Akomolafe, “Personally, I’m always excited to identify with BAO because he has made us -the homegrown Ekiti indigenes proud. Besides, Governor Oyebanji’s government has simplified governance and this can be deduced through two ways; the peace in the land and the lively economic activities, which everybody experiences and enjoys. Besides, I’m a salary earner and I’m enjoying prompt payment.”
For obvious reasons, the subtle campaign is louder in Ikogosi Ekiti, the Governor’s country home, where most members of the community, regardless of status, are using every opportunity to campaign for his second term. Today in Ikogosi, hardly is there any house or shop where Oyebanji’s campaign material is not stationed.
Mrs. Osoma Rachael, an Akara seller who branded her spot in Ikogosi with BAO’s campaign material said she did it because Oyebanji has stood out as a true leader who is passionate about development and humanity.
“For us in Ikogosi, Oyebanji’s magnanimous support for community development didn’t start when he became a Governor. This is a man who has mentored many youths and got jobs for others even before he became Governor. As
Governor, he is doing exceedingly well to make Ekiti State great. I used my money to print this campaign material and mount in my spot to announce to the world that Oyebanji is a prophet who is honoured both at home and outside.
For 75 year-old Motilayo Ademiluwa, a retired teacher, Oyebanji’s second term bid is a communal project that must be given all it takes.
“The call for Governor Oyebanji is not limited to our town but a campaign that is resonating with most Ekiti indigenes because he has fulfilled his electoral promises. I have always taken it personal because I know him well and I know he has the capacity and wherewithal to lift Ekiti. Prior to 2022 election, I belonged to two clubs; Egbe Emiloju and Egbe Oluwalomoose and I remember standing up in our meeting when we heard that he was contesting and told our members to take it as Ikogosi project, regardless of their political parties and vote for Oyebanji. I was supported by others and we thank God today that it has yielded a desired fruit.” Mrs. Ademiluwa stated.
On her part, Mrs. Esther Olajide said she voluntarily decided to put up Oyebanji’s campaign material in
front of her house because the governor has made Ikogosi proud.
According to her, “First, we were happy because an illustrious son from Ikogosi became Ekiti State governor. Today, we are happy because he has made us proud and we consider it necessary to contribute our quota. As people drive past the town now, our campaign materials send positive signals that Oyebanji enjoys the support of his people at home.”
This is also the position of Florence Olatuyise, who described Oyebanji as ‘Ogidi Omo’ who has proved to the world that we have the best in Ikogosi. “We see this as a communal project because as our son, Abiodun Oyebanji has made us proud.
Though Mr. James Durogbade, another Ikogosi indigene is not a politician, he is impressed with what the governor is doing and saw the need to give all the necessary support. “I’m not a politician but I’m happy that in Oyebanji, Ekiti has gotten a leader who is ready to give his all, hence the need for the support.” Durogbade stated.
In a related development and in anticipation of his running for a second term as the Governor of Ekiti State under the umbrella of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) come 2026, the alumni Association of Ekiti State University (EKSU) under the aegis of EKSU Alumni Solidarity Group for BAO had recently purchased both the Expression of Interest and Nomination forms for Governor Oyebanji.
In recent times, the people have taken it a notch higher, considering the activities in all the towns and villages in Ekiti State. From Igbara-Odo to Ilawe, Ifaki to Ikole, Efon Alaaye to Igede, the story is the same. The campaign has come full-blown as people are now using their money to print posters and other campaign materials to drum up their support for Oyebanji.
Representatives of the group were at the national secretariat of the party in Abuja last month to pick the forms in fulfilment of their promise to give maximum support to the Governor, who is also an alumnus of the University.
In the words of the immediate Past President of the alumni, Dipo Bamisaiye, not minding the cost of the form, it was their desire to ensure that Oyebanji, who had not disappointed them during his first term in office, serves the second term as the Constitution approves.
His words: “It is our mantra that one of us is better than none of us, and as such, we have associated ourselves keenly with the second term ambition of the incumbent Governor, who has neither forsaken nor disappointed us in the course of his first term in office.”
The alumni group said they were able to raise N75 million for the purchase of the form, which they claimed was the first phase of their fund-raising.
EKSU may appear as not so big at inception, but now we are a great institution and this is even made possible by Governor Oyebanji who has not despised his little beginning as one of us. If he had done so much in the first instance, we are assured he will do even more in the second term.”
“The fact that we, the alumni, have raised such money to pick the ticket for the Governor who is one of us, will show the people in the state that Mr. Governor is admired and loved by us.”
On what members of the alumni will further do to ensure the victory for the governor, both at the primary and general elections, Bamisaiye, who is also the Director General of the EKSU Alumni Solidarity Group for BAO, said they would mobilise themselves and the good people of the state, to further pool resources to support him.
While receiving the representatives of the group in his office, the National Organising Secretary of the APC, Alhaji Suleiman Argungu, praised the representatives for their good intention and support for their colleague, saying they had come in good time to collect the form and would have enough time to complete it. He added that in his opinion based on what he had heard so far from the people of the state, the governor had performed creditably well to earn a second term in office.
Nigeria @ 65: How Globacom is Building a World Where Connections Know No Bounds
As Nigeria marks 65 years of independence today, few companies exemplify the Nigerian spirit like Globacom, the indigenous telecommunications giant that has transformed the way Nigerians connect with one another and the world. From pioneering affordable SIM cards and Per Second Billing to launching state-of-the-art digital solutions, Glo has consistently been pro-Nigeria. In September 2025, Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that the company reinforced its commitment to Nigerians with two new offerings: Talkmasta, a tariff plan rewarding unlimited free talk time and data, and a revamped Welcome Bonus that gives new subscribers up to N2,000 in instant airtime and data, ensuring that staying connected is easier and more rewarding than ever
As Nigeria celebrates 65 years of independence on October 1, the story of her journey is incomplete without the role of indigenous businesses that have redefined entire sectors. Few companies embody this spirit more than Globacom, the telecommunications giant that has, since 2003, reshaped how Nigerians connect with one another and the wider world.
For a nation that once struggled with telephone access where a single SIM card could cost as much as ₦100,000, Globacom’s disruptive entry offered something rare: accessibility, affordability, and pride in a home-grown brand. By slashing SIM prices to about ₦200 and pioneering the Per Second Billing system, Glo democratised telecommunication in Nigeria, bringing millions of citizens into the digital fold.
More than two decades later, the green network is not just a telecom operator; it has become a symbol of possibility, showing how indigenous innovation can transform lives, break barriers, and set new benchmarks in Africa’s digital economy.
A History of Trailblazing
From the very beginning, Globacom approached Nigeria’s telecom sector with a mission to disrupt. It was the first to bring in Blackberry Services, Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS), prepaid roaming, inflight roaming, Glo TV, Glo Cloud and even innovative products like Glo Berekete, which quickly became household names.
But perhaps its boldest stroke was building Glo 1, a wholly owned submarine cable stretching from Nigeria to the United Kingdom and linking 14 West African nations, including landlocked countries. With this, Globacom not only lowered the cost of internet services but also placed Nigeria at the centre of Africa’s digital connectivity map.
The undersea cable has become a lifeline for businesses and governments, providing faster, more robust connectivity for voice, data and video. “Glo1 is credited with crashing the cost of internet services and is today the preferred cable system by global OTT providers,” the company noted.
By investing in infrastructure rather than shortcuts, Glo turned Nigeria into a hub for Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) and Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms, enabling regional growth far beyond its own subscribers.
Expanding the Digital Frontier
Not content with its achievements, Globacom is pushing further with Glo 2, the first submarine cable in Nigeria to terminate outside Lagos. For oil platforms in the South-South, underserved communities in the South-East, and businesses across the Niger Delta, this promises a future where “digital oilfields” and inclusive connectivity become the norm.
Its fibre optic cable network, covering over 130 cities nationwide, provides businesses with low-latency, high-speed
connectivity for voice, video and data. And in 2016, Glo again became a first mover when it launched Nigeria’s only nationwide 4G LTE network, later upgrading to a 4G LTE Advanced technology that combines three spectrums for stronger, faster internet.
The results are tangible: clearer voice and video calls, crisper picture quality, smoother gaming, and improved performance in fields like telemedicine and e-agriculture. Beyond mobile, Glo is also preparing to roll out satellitebased internet services to rural and under-served communities, which is another bold step to ensure no Nigerian is left behind in the digital era.
Value Beyond Connectivity
Globacom’s approach has never been just about network infrastructure; it has also been about empowering people. From WAN and leased lines that connect global businesses, to international private leased circuits (IPLCs) that give companies secure and dedicated links across continents, Glo has built solutions tailored for enterprises, SMEs, and governments.
At the consumer level, its prepaid and postpaid plans, international direct dialling packs, and mobility solutions reflect a philosophy of putting affordability at the centre of connectivity.
As the company itself says: “At Globacom, we offer a range of customized and community-driven voice and data connectivity solutions that help to manage complex networking systems. We also provide secured as well as verticalized IT solutions such as e-Health, Smart Cognitive Learning, Smart Energy, Industrial IoT and Cloud Applications.”
This blend of enterprise-grade services and consumer-friendly products underscores Glo’s integrated role in Nigerian life, from banking and agriculture to entertainment and family connections.
Two New Offerings: Talkmasta and Welcome Bonus
That philosophy of empowerment found fresh expression in September
2025 when Globacom unveiled two new products: Talkmasta and Welcome Bonus at its headquarters, Mike Adenuga Towers, Lagos.
The Talkmasta tariff plan rewards customers with unlimited free talk time and data. “Under the plan, customers who make six minutes of local calls to any network will automatically receive six additional free minutes, which can be used to call any local network and free 50MB,” the company explained. Calls are charged at 30 kobo per second, SMS at ₦6, and both new and existing customers can enjoy the offer.
Equally exciting is the revamped Welcome Bonus. New customers who register a SIM, recharge with ₦100, and make their first call now receive a package worth up to ₦2,000, split between ₦1,000 airtime (25 minutes of calls across networks) and ₦1,000 data (1GB browsing), valid for seven days.
The company was emphatic about its goal: “With these packages, we are reinforcing our commitment to affordable and reliable services that keep Nigerians connected to the people that matter most.”
At the launch, Ande Abdulrazaq, Globacom Retail Cluster Head, Lagos set the tone and in unveiling the two new offerings, he described the launch as more than just a product roll-out, but a celebration of connections and a promise to enrich the way Nigerians communicate while delivering greater value.
“For the first one, whether you’re catching up with friends, sharing moments with family, or even closing that important business deal, we’ve designed this package with you in mind. At Globacom, every Naira you spend is maximised to give you more than just a conversation; it gives you value.
“The second product is a welcome offer - a tantalising game-changer for every new subscriber joining the Globacom family. As you activate your Glo line, we’re rolling out an instant welcome gift for you, a massive
instant bonus simply for choosing to be a part of the Globacom community. Whether you’re recharging with just a little amount or making your very first call, we want to show our gratitude with a welcome package that’s truly unmatched in the industry.”
Abdulrazaq described the new bonus as a heartfelt welcome, a gesture of gratitude that turns every new subscriber into a valued member of its family. The company positioned the launch as more than a product unveiling; it was the fulfilment of a promise made in 2003 to be the first name Nigerians think of when staying connected.
Over the years, Glo has built its reputation on service, value, and experience, and the two new offerings were presented as a bold extension of that legacy. Designed to blend seamlessly into everyday life, they ensure subscribers stay connected to what matters most without worrying about cost.
He added that the launch was cast as a pivotal moment and fresh chapter where communication goes beyond technology, enabling dreams, connecting hearts, and building relationships. Globacom framed its mission not around numbers but around people, reminding Nigerians that with Glo, no one is just a subscriber; everyone is part of a community where connections know no bounds.
Glo Symbolism for Nigeria at 65
For many Nigerians, Globacom represents more than cheaper calls or faster internet. It is proof that a Nigerian company can compete with global giants, invest billions in infrastructure, and still put the consumer first.
As the country reflects on 65 years of independence, the story of Glo is inseparable from the nation’s story: a tale of resilience, innovation, and ambition. It is a reminder that while foreign investment is welcome, indigenous ingenuity remains central to Nigeria’s progress.
In the words of its mission, Globacom is not just about technology but about “connecting hearts, building relationships, and enabling dreams.” For a nation of over 200 million people, that is perhaps the most powerful independence gift of all.
L-R: Viju Unnithan, Marketing; Ronke Aneyo, Brand Specialist; Ande Abdulrazaq, Retail Cluster Head, Lagos; Precious Okon, Brand Specialist; and Sola Arowogbadamu, Marketing, at the recent unveiling of the two new products, Talkmasta and Welcome Bonus by Globacom in Lagos
Nigeria @65: Navigating a New Dawn with Sheriff Oborevwori
Ikechukwu Afakwu
As the drums of celebration echos across the country on the 65th Nigeria's Independence Day, a moment of profound reflection and renewed hope dawns upon the nation.
It is a day to honor the sacrifices of our founding fathers, to acknowledge the long, tough journey of nationhood, and to look ahead with clear vision and determined purpose.
In Delta State, this spirit of independence and forward momentum is personified in the leadership of Governor Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori. His journey from a grassroots politician to the state’s Chief Executive is a testament to the enduring Nigerian narrative of hard work, resilience, and the power of dedicated service.
Governor Oborevwori's ascendance to the helm of affairs on May 29, 2023, was not merely a change in administration; it was the beginning of a new chapter guided by a clear and deliberate philosophy.
His “MORE Agenda” Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security is more than a political slogan.
It is a strategic blueprint, a covenant with the people of Delta State, designed to address the state's most pressing challenges and unlock its vast potential.
In a nation grappling with economic uncertainties and social complexities, Oborevwori's approach stands out as a logical and focused model of governance.
The freedom that October 1 represents is the freedom to build a nation worthy of its people. In Delta, Governor Oborevwori is charting a new course toward freedom, infrastructural project, healthcare initiative, and empowered youth at a time.
In a country where public funds are often perceived as a common pool for mismanagement, Governor Oborevwori has earned a reputation for uncommon fiscal discipline.
The recognition by ThisDay Newspaper and Arise Television as "Governor of the Year 2024" for his financial prudence is
a strong indicator of this.
A key hallmark of his tenure has been the remarkable achievement of undertaking significant infrastructure projects without recourse to bank loans, a stark departure from the borrowing trends that have burdened many state governments.
This approach demonstrates a deepseated commitment to accountability and a strategic foresight that prioritizes sustainable development over shortterm gains.
This fiscal responsibility has not come at the expense of progress. Instead, it has enabled the government to channel resources directly into impactful projects. The “MORE Agenda” is visibly at work in the state’s infrastructure landscape. Over 513 road projects, covering nearly 1,500 kilometers, have been initiated or continued, transforming connectivity and stimulating economic activity.
The monumental N78 billion contract for the construction of three flyovers, a cloverleaf, and road expansion in Warri and Effurun metropolis stands as a bold statement of intent. These projects are not just about easing traffic; they are about modernizing Delta’s commercial nerve centers and creating an environment where businesses can thrive.
A nation's true strength lies in the health and well-being of its citizens. In this area, Governor Oborevwori's administration has
made impressive strides. The establishment of the College of Health Technology in Ovrode, Isoko North, is a forward-thinking move aimed at addressing the perennial shortage of skilled healthcare professionals. This initiative goes beyond merely building a school; it is an investment in human capital and a pledge to provide quality healthcare services to every Deltan.
Coupled with the continuation of free healthcare services for pregnant women and children under five, these policies form a comprehensive strategy to improve public health outcomes and reduce the financial burden on vulnerable families.
Nigeria’s independence story is fundamentally about hope for the future, a future built by the youth. Governor Oborevwori’s administration has placed youth empowerment at the very core of its mission. The legacy of job creation programs like the Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Programme (STEP) and the Youth Agricultural Entrepreneurs Programme (YAGEP) has been reinvigorated, providing thousands of young Deltans with the tools, training, and capital to become self-reliant.
Education, a cornerstone of any progressive society, has also received significant attention. The government’s commitment to building and rehabilitating classroom blocks, upgrading technical colleges, and
Just as Nigeria’s independence marked the beginning of a long and complex journey, Governor Oborevwori’s tenure is a new beginning for Delta, a resolute stride toward a future of shared prosperity, meaningful development, and enduring peace. It is a story not of a perfect state, but of a state on a purposeful march toward its own emancipation, one that inspires hope not just for Deltans, but for all of Nigeria on this significant day
providing essential educational materials is laying a solid foundation for the future.
The launch of a scholarship and bursary scheme for indigent and exceptional students is a crucial step toward ensuring that no child is left behind due to a lack of resources. This commitment to education and skills development is a powerful investment in Delta’s long-term prosperity, cultivating a generation of innovators and leaders.
The "Enhanced Peace and Security" pillar of the "MORE Agenda" is arguably the most critical enabler of all other developmental efforts. Peace is the bedrock upon which meaningful progress is built. By strengthening the state’s security architecture and fostering strategic partnerships with federal agencies and community stakeholders, Governor Oborevwori has created an environment of increased stability. This improved security has not only boosted public confidence but has also made the state more attractive to investors, both local and international.
The resolution of long-standing communal disputes, such as the Aladja-Ogbe-Ijoh land dispute, is a powerful demonstration of the administration’s commitment to peacebuilding and its understanding that genuine development cannot occur in a climate of conflict.
On this day of national commemoration, the story of Sheriff Oborevwori in Delta State is a powerful microcosm of the Nigerian story a narrative of potential, challenge, and determined effort. His administration’s progress, anchored by the “MORE Agenda,” serves as a beacon of what is possible when leadership is coupled with prudence, vision, and a genuine commitment to the people.
Just as Nigeria’s independence marked the beginning of a long and complex journey, Governor Oborevwori’s tenure is a new beginning for Delta, a resolute stride toward a future of shared prosperity, meaningful development, and enduring peace. It is a story not of a perfect state, but of a state on a purposeful march toward its own emancipation, one that inspires hope not just for Deltans, but for all of Nigeria on this significant day.
•Afakwu wrote in from Asaba
Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori (middle) with the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN (second left); Olu of Warri, HRM Ogiame Atuwatse lll (third left); and others at a recent inauguration of multiple strategic road projects at Upper and Lower Erejuwa Road, in Warri, Delta State
www.thisdaylive.com
TINUBU ASKED FOR THE JOB; YOU TOO CAN
The President’s job is paying off, argues RAHEEM ADEDOYIN
See page 21
ON JUSTICE LIMAN, MAHMOOD YAKUBU AND THE NEXT INEC CHAIRMAN
Any fit and proper person has right to aspire to be INEC chairman, argues SEUN AWOGBENLE
See page 21
EDITORIAL
NIGERIA AT 65: SOME CHEERS, MANY SIGHS
opinion@thisdaylive.com
Nigeria’s education sector remains vulnerable to the short term calculations of politics rather than the long term needs of learners, contends JOAN OSA OVIAWE
EDUCATION FIRST, POLITICS ASIDE
When I first reviewed exam enrollment data as Commissioner for Education in Edo State, what I saw was not just statistics on a page but the story of children being lost at every step of their education. The data showed how a system that begins with hope at Primary One ends in disappointment for far too many by the time of WAEC. Edo had more than 1,000 public primary schools, yet only about 300 public junior secondary schools, fewer than 300 public senior secondary schools, and just five technical and vocational schools. The exam candidates, drawn from both public and private schools, reflected these gaps starkly - nearly 100,000 sat for the Primary Six exam, but only 60,000 made it to JSS 3, and by the time of WAEC fewer than 35,000 remained. Thus, only 1 in 3 survived the journey from primary to senior school.
Behind each of these figures is a child whose future narrows too soon. Some are forced out by poverty, others by early marriage, and many more by the simple absence of schools to continue their education. Together, the numbers expose the weak transitions, underbuilt secondary infrastructure, and policy neglect that fuel Nigeria’s crisis of out-of-school children.
And yet, new primary schools keep springing up, often not because communities need them but because they are politically expedient. According to INEC, Nigeria has more than 176,000 polling units, many of them in or around primary school premises, making these schools highly visible during campaigns. In many communities, they stand less as centers of learning and more as political monuments with politicians prioritizing them as constituency projects, while secondary schools remain neglected. This is not only an Edo story, it is a Nigerian story.
At independence in 1960, Nigeria inherited a dual system of education; the community based training that had long sustained families and apprenticeships, and the literacy driven model introduced by colonial authorities, which created sharp divides in opportunity. With a population of 45 million, less than 1 in 4 children were enrolled in primary school, barely 1 in 100 advanced to secondary, and university education was the preserve of only a few thousand (Fafunwa, 1974).
The leaders of that era understood that education was central to national development. They launched ambitious programs like the Universal Primary Education scheme of 1976 and, later, the Universal Basic Education programme of 1999, both aimed at expanding access and closing the gaps left by colonial rule. But these initiatives soon became
hostage to politics. Oil booms and busts, military coups, and shifting party agendas repeatedly interrupted reforms, while successive governments often chose to abandon or rebrand the work of their predecessors rather than build on it. What could have been steady progress became a cycle of expansion and collapse, leaving classrooms overcrowded, teachers poorly trained, and infrastructure uneven.
The impact of these policy discontinuities has been profound. Nigeria’s education sector remains vulnerable to the short term calculations of politics rather than the long term needs of learners. Each change of government has too often meant a change of priorities, a reshuffling of programs, and the loss of continuity that effective education systems depend on. The result is that, 65 years later, millions of children are still being left behind.
Today, Nigeria has about 20 million out of school children and youth, more than the entire population of at least 22 African countries. Even for those in school, learning is not guaranteed, UNICEF and the World Bank report that 70% of children cannot read and understand a simple text by age 10. This silent emergency, known as learning poverty, is a national crisis hiding in plain sight.
In Edo, we tackled this through the Edo Basic Education Sector Transformation (EdoBEST) reforms. As a result of measurable learning gains and improvements in foundational literacy and numeracy, the state was recognized as part of the global network of Accelerator Countries, even though we are a sub national. This select group includes Brazil, Ecuador, Kenya, Morocco, Mozambique, Niger, Pakistan, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, and Edo State. Edo’s inclusion placed it alongside these reformers, showing that with the right mix of political will, teacher support, and accountability, progress is possible even in difficult contexts.
Working with then Governor Godwin Obaseki, we revived the largely neglected disarticulation policy of the Federal
Government, first introduced in 2004 but left dormant nationwide, with the aim of closing the gaps in access and progression. We built a plan through wide consultations, where civil servants, unions, headteachers, civil society, parents, and even learners had a voice. Together we mapped out four phases and also built additional classroom blocks in junior secondary schools as part of the inventory of over 500 primary and junior secondary schools renovated or rebuilt. Phase 1 was to merge underutilized primary schools in communities with too many and convert them into junior secondary schools, which would have raised the number of JSS from barely 300 to over 450 at minimal cost. Phase 2 was to physically separate junior secondary schools from senior secondary schools, giving learners clearer pathways. Phase 3 was to revive moribund secondary schools in rural areas, build new ones where none existed, and require all new basic schools to provide 9 years of basic education plus early childhood learning in one compound. Phase 4 was to build at least 1 TVET school in every Local Government Area, with the more populous LGAs hosting at least 3, and to partner with leading corporations to build TVET institutions as part of corporate social responsibility or through tax credits. These reforms were rooted in hard data and in the lived experiences of families, and they were designed to ensure that learners would not be stranded between primary and secondary school. Reform is not a project to be completed in one tenure, it is an ongoing process that requires several years of consistency and protection from policy disruptions to achieve full disarticulation, and what we started remains a blueprint for how to realign infrastructure, policy, and access with the needs of learners.
The deeper challenge lies in Nigeria’s governance culture. Civil servants were once trained to end memos with “awaiting further directives, please,” a habit of passivity that lingers. In Abuja, every crisis seems to trigger the creation of yet another agency, commission, or board. Over time, this forest of institutions has grown unwieldy, consuming scarce resources in bureaucracy instead of delivering to learners. What is needed is not new structures but continuity, coordination, and sharper focus. Edo’s experience showed that when resources flow directly into classrooms, teacher training, and learning materials, results follow.
Oviawe, PhD, is an education reform advocate and former Commissioner for Education in Edo State (2021-2024). joanoviawe@yahoo.com
The President’s job is paying off, argues RAHEEM ADEDOYIN
TINUBU ASKED FOR THE JOB; YOU TOO CAN
I asked for the Job. "
That's Nigeria President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu's famous soft jab to his critics.
It is both a retort and a reminder of his readiness for the tough job.
So, if you are hammering the President with a barrage of criticisms, your punches go well with the demands of his job. Bring it on, No shaking.
It is no mean feat to be the first real politician to be elected President in modern Nigeria; a viable aspirant to become a viable candidate without being sponsored and a rare candidate to be elected President without Godfathers tying the noose on his neck.
But " I asked for the job " also takes a positive tone within the context of the President knowing the complexity of the job - the hurdles to cross and the determination to succeed.
Those trenchant critics of the President had their job cut out for them from the beginning. The president fired the first salvo on his inauguration day with a preemptive strike. " The subsidy is gone", he announced with gutso to a bewildered nation. Not that Nigerians were ignorant of the ruinous fuel subsidy regime but they were not prepared for the immediacy of the effect of the removal.
In quick succession, the President fired another missile by announcing the floating of the Naira. While the removal of the fuel subsidy led to a monstrous increase in fuel prices, the floating of the Naira led instantly to a deep depreciation of the naira with the attendant negative effects on Nigerians' purchasing power .
But here comes the positive side of " I asked for the job": Empathy. Readiness. Focus.
Yes, the president asked for the job, he was prepared for the job and he was ready for the tough challenges.
He unveiled a Renewed Hope Agenda with particular focus and urgency on economic reforms, infrastructural development, security and a new governance culture .
The agenda set out a clear road map for financial and economic prosperity. While the pains, and groans of the adverse effects of fuel subsidy removal and foreign exchange policy are undeniable, there is gradual economic rebound.
Nigerians, are no longer at the mercy of unconscionable fuel subsidy rogues; fuel queues have become history and the government no longer promotes illicit sweet dollar deals.
Food prices are crashing while Naira is gaining gradually. The government is harvesting more money even if there are worries about how the three tiers of government utilise the financial windfall.
Mr. President asked for job; he is liv-
ing with the stress that goes with it but he is also conscious of the people's expectations on the positive impact of his reform agenda.
The President's team seems to have cut the "I asked for the job" bug too. No one exemplifies this more than Lanre IssaOnilu, the Director General of the National Orientation Agency ( NOA). He asked for the job and is delivering on the promises he made to the president to reposition NOA as a vehicle for public advocacy on citizens rights, duties and good governanance.
I was curious about Issa-Onilu's choice when he first told me about it because I knew he was well-positioned for a juicier and more glamorous Job in a Tinubu Administrstion.
NOA was a complete mess but the turn around in effective public communication is obvious and endearing.
Voice of Nigeria ( VON), headed by ace journalist, Jibrin Ndace has also transformed into a viable national voice on the international plain.
I do not know if members of the presidential media team asked for the jobs they are now doing. Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the fiery media leader hits hard and gets hit harder. His messaging and style irritate and offend the administration's harsh critics but the dexterity in his work is undeniable.
The minister of Information and National Orientation, Mallam Idris Mohammed, wield a soft power. An accomplished newspaper publisher, immediate past Secretary General of the Newspapers, Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria( NPAN) and a leading member of the International Press Institute ( IPI), his media influence and tremendous goodwill serve the administration well.
The President is lucky to have a job that he asked for, a job that he worked for and a job that is paying off for the nation. That is a food for thought for his country men and women.
The President has set the tone for something that may well become a national creed. Ask for the job and do the job.
Happy Independence Anniversary.
Adedoyin writes from Vienna, Austria
Any fit and proper person has right to aspire to be INEC chairman, argues SEUN AWOGBENLE
ON JUSTICE LIMAN, MAHMOOD YAKUBU AND THE NEXT INEC CHAIRMAN
In the last few days, there has been a sudden frenzy around who becomes the next chairman of Nigeria’s electoral body, INEC. This hysteria, which may be well intended in some quarters, has become another weapon of politics for those whose stock in trade is to exploit every national debate for political mileage.
I typically do not worry when I see people try to outmanoeuvre each other in politics; that is the nature of the game. But there is an emerging pattern that has become even more disturbing. That pattern first emerged with the economic reforms of the current government, where people who knocked the reforms were the same people who had either pledged the same commitment in the past or could not say anything tangible that they would do differently. The same pattern emerged during the tax reform bill, where people made it a 'we vs them' duel, giving it an ethnic dimension. We are now, once again, seeing the same pattern emerge with the appointment of the next INEC chairman. At the heart of this dangerous pattern is the weaponisation of fake news as an art form to spread fear, cause panic and mislead the public.
In principle, I believe that every Nigerian should be interested in who becomes the next chairman of INEC; moreover, as someone who has dedicated a major part of my time to advocating for electoral reforms, I am absolutely certain that this is evidently a settled matter. But raising the political temperature on such a critical issue does not help anyone. This is the sort of conversation that I believe should be beyond the remit of politics and should instead evoke a sense of patriotism and commitment to the truth.
In the last week, at least two patterns have supported this observation. The first one is from media scholar Prof. Farooq Kperoogi, who first spotlighted Justice Mohammed Abdullahi Liman, a retired judge, as a potential replacement for Prof. Mahmood Yakubu. In his notes from Atlanta, Kperoogi, who admitted he did not know enough about Liman to make a categorical comment, went on to describe him as a loadstone for controversies and attempted to support it with reports that were either inaccurate or deliberately concocted. I will return to some of these wild claims shortly.
The second one is a report from Sahara Reporters, titled ‘Tinubu Directs INEC Chairman Yakubu to Immediately Proceed on Leave For “Betraying APC”, Set to Nominate Successor’. In the said report published on September 24, the author made a poor attempt at fiction by claiming, of its own imagination, that Prof. Yakubu has been asked to go on compulsory leave and that therefore this may be an attempt to force out the INEC chairman, whose end of tenure is just about a month away. I will also return to this shortly. But it is worth noting that these two publications were made within days of each other. Striking.
But what are the main issues here?
Sections 154(1) and 153(1) establish the power of the President to appoint the Chairman of INEC and the heads of other similar agencies. There has never been a time in the history of Nigeria where whoever was president that attempted to exercise these powers did not face a pushback. For the simple reason that the President has the constitutional right to appoint anyone at his own discretion, and because in some cases the appointed INEC Chairman could potentially preside over an election where the same president is also a candidate.
Some have argued that this power may limit the ability of whoever is the chairman of INEC to function with autonomy and independence. But this debate is not new; it has been on since 2007, when the Justice Uwais-led committee recommended that the power to appoint the INEC chairman be transferred from the president to the National Judicial Council (NJC). However, that recommendation, till today, is yet to undergo any legislative process. Therefore, anyone who is interested in this amendment should be looking to engage the NationalAssembly.
It is with the same token that I find it uncharitable that anyone would suggest that the government may be trying to force out the outgoing chairman. Prof. Mahmood Yakubu was first announced as INEC Chairman on October 21, 2015, before he was confirmed on October 29, 2015. He completed his first term in November 2020 and was renominated and confirmed for a second term in December 2020. The constitution allows a two-term limit of a maximum of 10 years for anyone serving as INEC Chairman. In November, Prof. Yakubu would have served out his tenure and would effectively be statute-barred from reappointment. If this is anything to go by, let’s assume, but not concede, that the INEC chairman was asked to proceed on leave; this, in my opinion, would be standard civil service procedure. But attempting to frame it in the manner that the author in the Sahara Reporters report has done is oversimplifying an issue that requires a lot more seriousness. For a moment, we can put jokes aside.
Awogbenle, a Development and Public Policy Professional, writes from United Kingdom. He can be reached via seunawogbenle@ gmail.com.
Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA
Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com
NIGERIA AT 65: SOME CHEERS, MANY SIGHS
Government must do more by providing security and welfare for the people
Members of the generation of Nigerians who witnessed independence have a right to sigh in disquiet. They went out with tiny flags and plastic cups to greet freedom, independence and the promise of a better life. Today, it is uncertain whether the optimism of that moment has not turned into ashes of disappointment. It is therefore little surprise that on a day that should ordinarily be for reflection on the achievements of the past decades and celebrate, there is a national sense of foreboding. On Monday, the federal government announced the cancellation of the parade earlier scheduled to mark the anniversary this morning in Abuja. It is just as well. Today, as it has been in recent years, Nigeria is a nation with lumps of exasperation in its throat.
In many ways, the age of nations can measure their achievement in established identities, stable cultures and a global reputation for good or ill. At 65, most of Nigeria’s age grade nations have made commendable progress. Indonesia, Malaysia, South Korea, and Singapore have all become globally notable nations. The much that can be said about Nigeria today is that it is still in existence. But most of the indices of stable statehood are in deficit. Democracy is in doubt. The economy is shattered and tattered. Social life is in a Hobbesian state. Security of life and limbs is rare. Beyond the pervasive insecurity that seems to be defying solutions, the widespread economic suffering can be measured easily: the once wealthy country has become a basket case, harbouring millions of citizens living below the poverty line, and unable to provide basic services. On a day such as this, therefore, people in leadership positions must reflect on some of the things that are keeping the country down. Despite recent measures that have pauperised majority of Nigerians, profligacy remains the
name of the game for public officials at all levels of government.
Yes, it is true that Nigeria survived a nasty civil war that could have extinguished less fortunate states. We have a diversity that others envy. We are educated, enterprising and optimistic. The world’s two most antagonistic faiths co-exist despite the sabre rattling of some fanatics. Our brilliant citizens lead some of the world’s most successful organisations, and most profitable corporations. Amid all this, Nigeria remains a young nation with rusty ancient maladies. At 65, Nigeria remains something of great value to a world community always eager to learn how good things can be bungled by some of the world’s smartest people. The hope that politics and democracy could salvage Nigeria from itself is fading as bad politics continues to alienate the majority.
Leaders must look beyond primordial considerations and artificial differences to collectively fight poverty, ignorance and underdevelopment
T H I S D AY
EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU
DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE
MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO
DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU
CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN
THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE
T H I
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GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU
DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE
DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI
SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH
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Letters to the Editor
To change that narrative would require a new mindset by both the leaders and the citizens. One, government must do more to provide security and insulate Nigerians from the effects of the catastrophe that has overtaken the land. Two, the withering economy must be reinvigorated and put Nigerians back on their feet. Over and above all, we must all commit to the unity of our country and its diversity.
We also call on the federal government and the 36 states to begin to cut down on the waste that is now associated with government in the country today. We suggest a review of government spending and, even more importantly, a rethink of the cost of maintaining our public office holders. Most of the resources being wasted can be deployed to areas of pressing challenges both at the federal level and in the states. Our leaders must also look beyond primordial considerations and artificial differences to collectively fight poverty, ignorance and underdevelopment.
We wish all Nigerians Happy 65th Independence Anniversary.
Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-300 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (750- 1000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive. com along with photograph, email address and phone numbers of the writer.
A NATION IN DIRE NEED OF REFORMS
As Nigeria marks her 65th independence anniversary, many citizens roll out the drums in celebration of nationhood. Yet beneath the celebrations lies a sobering truth: this country is in dire need of urgent and comprehensive reforms. From the economy to security, infrastructure, politics, education, and governance, the challenges are glaring, and the calls for transformation have never been louder. Successive administrations, both military and civilian, have made their contributions to the Nigerian project. However, the reality is that Nigerians deserve better than what they have been offered over the decades. Today, expectations are high under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a man whose name is etched in the nation’s democratic struggle. As a leader hailed as a true democrat, the burden rests heavily on his shoulders to unite a country whose voices of disunity continue to echo from different regions. Nigeria’s political system requires a total reform. The se-
curity architecture must be urgently strengthened, as kidnappings, banditry, terrorism, and armed robberies have become every day occurrences, sparing no part of the nation. The road networks, many of which are in deplorable condition, demand immediate intervention to ease movement, trade, and economic growth.
Equally critical is the power sector, which has for decades defied all solutions. Nigeria cannot industrialize or diversify her economy without stable electricity. A complete overhaul of this sector is long overdue if the nation must compete in the global economy. The education sector, though not entirely broken, still requires deliberate investment and reform to produce a generation equipped to drive Nigeria’s future.
The 1999 Constitution, often described as flawed, should be revisited and reworked by the National Assembly to accommodate the voices and aspirations of all Nigerians. The judiciary too must not be left out. The Chief Justice of Nige-
ria has a duty to purge the judicial system of bottlenecks and obstacles that hinder the speedy dispensation of justice, ensuring that the courts truly remain the last hope of the common man. It is also imperative for state and local governments to actively join hands with the federal government in this reform process. Development must not be centralized in Abuja alone; governance should reflect the principles of true federalism where every tier of government delivers value to its people.
At 65, Nigeria stands at a crossroads. The challenges are daunting, but they are not insurmountable. With strong political will, sincere leadership, and collective responsibility, Nigeria can rise above her troubles and fulfill the dreams of her founding fathers. For the sake of generations to come, Nigeria must succeed.
Tochukwu Jimo Obi, jimobi83@gmail.com
Kayode Tokede
Amid excess liquidity in the financial sector, banks’ deposits with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) increased to a historical sum of N50.73 trillion in September 2025 with N322 million borrowed from the apex bank in the period under review.
Banks use Standing Deposit Facility (SDF), to deposit their excess funds overnight with the CBN for an interest.
Banks use another window, the Standing
Kayode Tokede
The CEO, Bitget, Gracy Chen has disclosed that Nigerians now have access to trade US stocks, Exchange Traded Funds (ETF) through Real-World Assets (RWA) on Bitget.
For a long time, Nigerian traders have been limited when it came to global markets, everyone knew the names Tesla, Nvidia, Apple, Amazon, the S&P
Lending Facility (SLF), an upper corridor to borrow money from the CBN at a pre-specified rate, typically the benchmark policy rate plus a margin.
Analysis of financial data from the CBN revealed that banks’ deposits has appreciated significantly by 992 per cent Year-on-Year (YoY) from N4.65 trillion in September 2024 to N50.73 trillion in September 2025.
The data also showed that banks’ deposit since the beginning of the year has witnessed a steady increase, reaching its highest peak
in September 2025.
A further breakdown of the numbers showed that the N17.54 trillion that was deposited in May 2025 was the second highest amount banks deposited with CBN.
The N322 million banks borrowed from CBN in the month under review represents 99.99 per cent YoY decline when compared to N7.86 trillion in the corresponding period of 2024.
In the nine months of 2025, a sum of N146.2 trillion was deposited with CBN, representing
532 per cent YoY increase from N23.12 trillion in nine months of 2024.
Further analysis showed that the total amount borrowed by banks has dropped significantly to N68.43 trillion in nine months of 2025, about 21 per cent decline from N87.08 trillion reported by the CBN in nine of 2024.
The applicable rates for the SDF and SLF in 2023 increased by 50 basis points to 11.50 and 19.50 per cent, respectively, following the hike in the policy rate by 50 basis
points to 18.75 per cent in June 2023.
The interest rate at which these banks borrow from CBN changed in 2024 amid the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) hike in MPR or interest rate.
In 2024, the MPC members voted to increase interest rate from 18.75 per cent to 27.50 per cent amid its mandate to tackle inflation rate and unstable Naira at the foreign exchange market. However, the MPC members of the CBN towards the end of September 2025 voted to
reduce MPR by 50 basis points to 27 per cent, marking a significant shift to an expansionary monetary policy. This move, which comes amid five consecutive months of sustained disinflation, aims to boost economic activity and address liquidity issues in the banking system. The decision was influenced by the fall in the inflation rate from 21.88 per cent in July to 20.12 per cent in August 2025.
500 ETFs, but accessing them from Nigeria wasn’t easy, local traders were boxed into forex, or crypto, while stocks in the US felt out of reach, requiring brokers with high deposits, high broker fees and complicated paperwork.
Chen in a statement said,
“It’s now changing Nigerians are now bridging the gap between crypto and Wall Street, Nigeria has one of the fastest-growing crypto adoption rates in Africa, from
young traders in Lagos area to university students in Abuja, crypto has become a new financial language, now through Real-World Assets (RWA) on Bitget, Nigerians can directly trade tokenized versions of US stocks and ETFs on the same platform they already use for crypto.
“No offshore brokers, no US bank account required, Nigerians can now trade US stocks and crypto directly on Bitget by
depositing USDT or Naira (NGN) through trusted local channels — including P2P with GTBank, Access Bank, Zenith Bank, UBA, and leading fintechs like Opay, PalmPay, Momo, Kuda, Flutterwave, Paystack, Moniepoint, and more, whether you prefer direct bank transfers, USSD, or mobile wallets, funding your Bitget account in Nigeria has never been easier.”
“To trade RWA Futures on Bitget which Is a game changer for Nigeria, start with Just 7,000 Naira, forget huge capital, your first step into owning shares of giants like Apple or Tesla can start with what’s in your pocket, for trading US stocks and crypto together for the first time, traders don’t need two platforms, both crypto and stocks live in one app, the chart-reading and market-prediction
skills you’ve mastered in forex and crypto should now be putting to work on the world’s most famous companies and your hustle just went global, with Bitget futures trading, users can amplify their capital and open positions up to 10 times the funds they hold giving Nigerian traders a sharper edge in fast-moving markets.
L-R: Director, Sahara Group Foundation, Chidilim Menakaya; Chief of Government Relations and Africa, UN
board member, UN Global Compact Network Nigeria, Olapeju Ibekwe; UN Assistant Secretary-General and CEO/Executive
and Director of Philanthropy, Plan International at the Global Africa Business Initiative, Sheila Ojei at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80), in New York… recently
Business Leaders Urged to Treat Culture as Revenue Strategy
Business leaders have been urged to rethink how they approach workplace culture, moving beyond slogans and values to treating culture as a direct driver of revenue strategy and productivity. This call was made during Workplace Culture
Champions Conference organised by Winbox consulting, where experts and organisational leaders drew a clear link between behavior in the workplace and financial performance and productivity.
Speaking at the event held in Lagos, the convener amd the CEO, Winbox
Lekki Port Welcomes Customs Area Controller, Promises Co-operation
The management of Lekki Port, promoters of Lekki Deep Seaport, has welcomed the appointment of a new Custom Area Controller, Nigeria Customs Service, Hauwa Abubakar, into the Port, describing her choice as a round peg in a round hole, given her sterling contributions to the operational excellence of the agency.
According to the Managing Director, Lekki Port, Wang Qiang, the redeployment of Abubakar
to Lekki Port is a reward for hard work and outstanding performance in the course of duty during her last posting.
While appreciating the outgoing controller for the job well done, Qiang noted that the management of Lekki Port would continue to give maximum support and cooperation to the agency to help deliver on its mandate and ensure that the Port achieves remarkable revenue growth and profitability.
NIA Condoles Victims of Fire Incidents at Afriland Towers, Emab Plaza
The Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA) has extended its heartfelt condolences to all individuals, families, and businesses affected by the tragic fire incidents that occurred at the Afriland Towers and Emab PLaza in Lagos recently.
NIA in a letter titled Message of Sympathy signed by its chairman, Mr Kundera Ahmed said it deeply mourned the loss of lives and property and stood in solidarity with those who were grieving
and rebuilding in the aftermath of the unfortunate event.
“Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
As the umbrella body for insurance and reinsurance companies in Nigeria, we wish to assure all affected parties that we have identified member companies who provided insurance covers for the said buildings and losses covered under valid insurance policies will be duly compensated by the respective insurance companies.
Consuslting. Dr. Deji Osasona, who said for many CEOs revenue is the ultimate measure of success, revealed that culture is the missing link that determines whether strategy translates into profit.
He noted that while most organizations dedicate significant resources to building strategic plans, only a small fraction achieve
proper implementation.
According to him, a recent surveys highlighted that more than 80 percent of companies spend heavily on strategy, yet barely 5 percent successfully execute their plans.
He stressed that culture must be intentional, modeled by leaders, and embedded in daily operations if it is to
influence results.
According to him, “Culture is what you live and lead. Whether intentional or not, every organization is already promoting a culture. It is either one that unleashes the power of your people or one that holds them back. And that, in turn, determines productivity and revenue. Even the most
sophisticated strategy will fail if the daily actions of employees do not align with it.”
Delivering his keynote speech, CEO, Business School Netherlands International in Nigeria, Prof. Lere Baale, opined that cultural transformation must be driven from the top. He stated that
PenCom DG Assures Pensioners of Improved Welfare
Ebere Nwoji
The Director General, National Pension Commission (PenCom), Ms Omolola Oloworaran has assured pensioners that all outstanding pension increases approved by the Federal Government would be implemented this year.
The PenCom Director General who gave this assurance during a courtesy visit to the National Union of Pensioners (NUP) said the increases backed by the N758 billion bond approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would be met in no distance time. She added that the funds would soon
be made available for payments to commence.
She assured the union that PenCom remained resolute in its mandate to safeguard the retirement benefits of Nigerian workers.
She informed the pensioners’ umbrella body hat PenCom and NUP shared a common
mission in the protection and welfare of pensioners. She tasked the union to continue to collaborate with PenCom to ensure that retirees enjoy the dignity and security they deserve after years of service to the nation.
She noted that the union’s representation on
The Alternative Bank Takes Fight Against Plastic Pollution to Abuja, Kano
Kayode Tokede
Plastic pollution poses one of Nigeria’s most pressing urban challenges, and following the success of its Walk4ZeroPlastic in Lagos, The Alternative Bank said it is expanding the initiative to Abuja and Kano.
This bold step aims to inspire collective action in two of Nigeria’s largest cities, where mounting plastic waste threatens health, livelihoods, and the environment.
The Abuja exercise will begin at Yoruba Mosque and culminate at Wuse
Market. Kano will October 4, 2025, giving residents the opportunity to make that move toward a cleaner environment.
The lender stated that both events will involve symbolic walks and clean-up activities in key markets. It will also engage participants in raising awareness about sustainable waste management practices and responsible consumption.
The Executive Director (North) at The Alternative Bank, Garba Mohammed in a statement said, “Plastic pollution is choking our
AIICO Insurance Clinches Outstanding Insurance Company Award
AIICO Insurance Plc, has for third consecutive time earned top honours as it clinched the “Outstanding Insurance Company of the Year” award at the 2025 Marketing Edge Brands and Advertising Excellence Awards held in Lagos recently.
The recognition marked the third consecutive year that AIICO has been celebrated at the prestigious event, reinforcing its stature as a leading composite insurer that has continued to define excellence in the marketplace. In 2023, AIICO was named “Insurance Company of
the Decade”, followed by another top industry honour in 2024, before emerging this year’s Outstanding Insurance Company of the Year.
Speaking on the recognition, Head of Marketing and Communications at AIICO Insurance Plc, Mr Segun Olalandu, expressed the
company’s appreciation saying: “We sincerely thank the organisers of the Marketing Edge Awards for consistently recognising and honouring the AIICO brand over the years. This recognition affirms our strength and relevance in the marketplace. At AIICO, we will not rest on our oars.”
Ebere Nwoji
Oluchi Chibuzor
Ebere Nwoji
Global Compact, Tolulope Lewis Tamoka; CEO, Sterling One Foundation and
Director, United Nations Global Compact, Sanda Ojiambo
Reforming Pension for Improve Returns
The National Pension Commission has embarked on major reforms aimed at revolutionising pension sector for more returns. Ebere Nwoji in this report highlights stakeholders’ advice on how to avoid fragmentation of the accumulated assets.
Having experimented on the Contributory Pension scheme (CPS) which ushered in a wellfunded pension regime that raised hope and confidence in the minds of Nigerian workers and retirees for over two decades, the National Pension Commission (PenCom), on Monday launched what
it tagged, “Pension Revolution 2.0, with the slogan - Stronger Pensions, Stronger Nigeria.” PenCom described the revolution as a transformative programme of reforms that builds on two decades of progress to guide Nigeria’s pension industry into its next phase of growth and resilience. The revolution, which was announced by the PenCom
Director General, Ms. Omolola Oloworaran on her X (Twitter) handle on Monday 22 September 2025, seems to roll out new programme and agenda on daily basis on how to improve the CPS system.
In embarking on the revolution, the PenCom Director General stated that the first great turning point in Nigerian pension system came in
2004 with the enactment of the Pension Reform Act, which introduced the CPS and revolutionised retirement savings in Nigeria. She noted that the reform laid the foundation for confidence, discipline, and sustainability in our pension system. According to her, two decades later, Nigeria stands at another defining
Continued on page 54
ng Pen SI on fo R Im PR ove Re T u R n S
moment. Pension Revolution 2.0 which she said was the most significant advancement since 2004, bold in ambition, yet evolutionary in practice.
She explained that the revolution ushered in a new era of dignity for retirees, inclusion for every Nigerian worker, and resilience for our national economy.
“This programme is guided by the vision of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has directed that our pension system must enable dignity in retirement, broaden access for all Nigerians, and mobilise long-term savings as reliable capital for national development,” she said.
She said in the face of the revolution, effect from this week, the commission would release the new regulations daily. She added that each guideline sets higher standards across critical pillars - from investment and risk management to governance and compliance, to service delivery and financial inclusion.
According to her, in line with the President’s directive, the commission will also within the next three months, pilot health insurance coverage for retirees and activate the Minimum Pension Guarantee, with the aim of safeguarding retirees’ dignity and supporting a decent standard of living.
She said the target of the reforms is enabling dignity for retirees through health insurance and a minimum pension floor.
“It is about optimising investment performance while safeguarding contributors’ funds to deliver sustainable long-term returns; expanding pensions to
reach every Nigerian, especially those in the informal economy; harnessing technology and innovation to democratise access and improve service delivery, as well as unlocking pension assets as a dependable source of financing for national development,” she explained.
She described the revolution 2.0 as being more than regulatory reform, but a renewal of trust, “an evolution of our system, and a bold national strategy.”
THISDAY observed that heralding the revolution was the launch of a thinktank team, tagged Pension Industry Leadership Council (PILC), saddled with the responsibility of driving and strengthening Nigeria’s pension sector.
The newly inaugurated PILC, has, as its mission and responsibilities, the setting of standards, enforcement of good corporate governance, protection of pension assets and investments in protective products among others.
PenCom further said PILC would focus on expanding coverage especially, the informal sector, enforce good governance and standards, channel assets to national development while ensuring contributors interests are paramount, drive innovation products process and of course, strengthen public confidence.
According to PenCom, the newly inaugurated PILC will also be providing strategic directives for the industry, “Ultimately, working with the regulator and the industry to ensure that returns on pension contributions and investments match up with the inflation and other number of things the commission is already looking at in order to combat
inflation or currency devaluation as the case may be and other number of reforms the commission is coming up with.”
At the PILC inauguration, which was performed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator Dr. George Akume, PenCom Director General Oloworaran, said that part of the things the commission was also working on, include working with partners in government to see that these instruments that could be invested in, have an effective hedge against currency devaluation and inflation.
According to her, the commission is also coming up with the reversed investment regulations as well which essential increases to other alternative assets, real assets that can provide a hedge against inflation.
Looking at the commission’s revolutionary actions, one cannot but hail PenCom for coming up with these initiatives to prove that the commission is still active and alive to its responsibilities.
Industry observers said the inauguration at this time was a welcome development more so as it is in line with part VI, article M of PRA2014 on the functions and powers of PenCom which states that the commission could set up technical committee, working groups and task forces to assist it in the performance of its duties and functions under the act.
The PenCom boss said PILC is expected to be a place where there is better coordination in driving the pension regulators’ strategic objectives
for the industry even though the council’s goal may not be combating the inflation effects on pension assets balances.
Industry analysts however cautioned that in carrying out these reforms partly targeted at expanding investment portfolios of pension fund for more returns on investment, the commission should be careful whom it is entrusting these activities in to avoid costly and irreparable mistakes that could jeopardise the future of Nigerian workers.
The commission has also been cautioned on the issue of sustainability of the programmes it listed especially the minimum pension guarantee and health insurance for retirees and ensure they are not politically motivated, especially as election is close by.
Stakeholders seem to be more interested in the commission’s plans to reverse or review investment windows. To this end, they cautioned that as much as the commission has the power to dictate through the pension fund custodians the areas the funds should be invested, it should look critically at the future of such windows to avoid possible erosion of the accumulated funds.
On the constitution of the members of the PILC, they urged the commission to be careful in such selection to avoid a repeat of what happened in the pension system prior to CPS.
Analysts said one of the beauties of the PILC is its assignment on driving the Micro pension scheme, which the sector operators have not been able to drive with significant achievement in the past six years.
PUBLIC NOTICE
Mr. Ikechukwu Uwanna, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Abia State, who was recently conferred with the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), hereby disclaims authorizing, consenting to, or sponsoring the newspaper publication circulated earlier this week celebrating his elevation.
The said publication, which purported to be issued on behalf of the “Uwanna Family,” was made without his knowledge or the consent and input of his immediate family members.
For the avoidance of doubt, Mr. Ikechukwu Uwanna wishes to clarify that while he remains deeply grateful to God, the legal profession, and all who have genuinely extended goodwill and congratulations, he neither sanctioned nor endorsed the aforementioned publication or other similar ones.
The general public is therefore advised to treat the earlier publication as unauthorised, and it should be disregarded in its entirety.
Any misunderstanding the said publication may have caused, is regretted.
S IGN ed:
Mr. Ikechukwu Uwanna,SAN, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Abia State
Refo R m I
ProPerty & environment
Citing Imperfect Soil Tests, BCPG Warns About Impending Collapse of Coastal Buildings
Bennett Oghifo
Members of the Building Collapse Prevention Guild Iru - Victoria Island Cell have expressed professional concerns over the imperfect sub-soil investigations in the coastal region of Lagos State.
They expressed their displeasure in a statement titled, ‘Curbing Substandard Soil Test Work In The Coastal Region Of Lagos State’, signed by the Coordinator, BCPG Iru - Victoria Island Cell, Arc. Adefemi Afolabi (an Architect); the General Secretary, BCPG Iru - Victoria Island Cell, QS Taiwo Ayanboade, (a Quantity Surveyor); and the Public Relations Officer, BCPG Iru - Victoria Island Cell, Engr. Wale Oyetayo, (a Civil/ Geotechnical Engineer).
The Iru - Victoria Island Local Council Development Area of Lagos, the Guild said, is surrounded by the Five
Cowrie Creek and Atlantic Ocean. “Therefore, conducting comprehensive sub-soil investigations in order to determine the mechanical properties and the shear strength of the soil that could bear the load exerted by the building foundation is is inevitable,” the Guild said.
Soil tests are an important exercise for building development, especially in the coastal region, in order to prevent building collapse due to foundation failure, the Guild said.
“Geotechnical sub-soil investigation report, if correctly done, enables the civil/ structural engineer to determine and design the most suitable foundation type for the proposed building development. Lack of effective regulatory monitoring of geotechnical practice in Lagos State portends future incidents of building collapse in Iru - Victoria Island LCDA.
“Our investigations revealed that the underlying factor of execution cost being at variance with contract sum/budget pave the way for most of the substandard soil tests that are being conducted around. This excuse by some of the practitioners is not tenable since no one compelled them to accept low prices.
“What is the relevance of the sub-soil investigation report in the building plan approval requirements? In this part of the world, it seems the relevance is more of formality purposes.
“The essence of conducting soil tests in Lagos State is merely to comply with the regulation. Observations from geotechnical sites within our locality, BCPG Iru - Victoria Island Cell, and other parts of Lagos State have raised critical doubts on the primary objective of sub-soil investigations as a prerequisite for building development. Many
of the soil tests conducted were below standard.
“Lack of sub-soil investigations was identified as one of the causes of building collapse. Hence, as part of solutions to building collapse challenges, subsoil investigations have been made mandatory.
“On the submission of application for planning permit or building plan approval, Section 4, Sub-section 3 (V) of the revised Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority Regulations, 2019 specifies that, ‘Sub-soil investigation report in the case of structures in excess of two (2) floors and all developments in areas with low bearing capacity soil where required.
“This regulation has created exponential demand for sub-soil investigations, thereby exposing the unpreparedness and limitations of geotechnical firms. “Although the challenges are being endured silently by
practitioners in order to protect the business from low patronage, the need to avert future disastrous consequence of downplaying the challenges necessitates bringing into the open constraints in the geotechnical field.”
According to them, “Doubts being exhibited by piling contractors, who nowadays demand for confirmatory sub-soil investigations, making clients spend double for the same exercise, are the indication that all is not well in the geotechnical sector. There is a limit to pretentiousness.”
Challenges identified by the BCPG investigations included paucity of competent drillers that could satisfactorily take Standard Penetrometer Test (SPT) at the required 1.5 metre intervals or at the change of stratum. Many times, N-Values, which are the insitu results of the SPTs that are inserted in
the field logs, are manipulated as the drillers are reluctant to take the time-consuming but necessary SPTs at the required depths.
“Really, the drillers are intractable, difficult to control, and are averse to thorough supervision. Conscious of their limited number, a driller being subjected to strict supervision could hold the supervisor to ransom by abandoning the work. To find another driller that could complete the work would be an uphill task. An experienced driller, nowadays, could be serving more than three geotechnical firms.
“The streneous process of taking SPT makes the soil test job unattractive to youthful drillers. Perhaps the health challenges faced by old skilful drillers and their dying in penury seem to be making the young drillers prioritise immediate monetary gains above professional ethics.
Thinkmint Nigeria to Host 6th Real Estate Discussions, Awards
Fadekemi Ajakaiye
Thinkmint Nigeria, a leading platform dedicated to creating strategic events, networking opportunities, and business solutions that drive growth across Africa’s real estate and investment sectors, has concluded plans to host the 6th edition of the Real Estate
Discussions & Awards (REDA), a premier two-day event dedicated to advancing Africa’s real estate sector.
The event scheduled to take place on Tuesday, 21st and Wednesday, 22nd October 2025 at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja GRA, Lagos, REDA 2025 will bring together developers, investors, policymakers, and
industry leaders for transformative conversations, exhibitions, and strategic networking opportunities.
With the theme: “Back to the Basics- The Future of Real Estate”, this year’s edition will feature keynote addresses, masterclasses, in-depth discussions, and exhibitions spotlighting innovations and
opportunities across the real estate value chain.
Attendees will also participate in high-level networking sessions, receptions designed for deal-making, and the prestigious REDA Awards, which celebrate excellence and innovation in Africa’s real estate ecosystem.
Accordingly, Keynote speakers for REDA 2025 include Dr.
Armstrong Takang, CEO, Ministry of Finance Incorporated, and Engr. Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, Honourable Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Lagos State.
These Keynote Speakers will be joined by distinguished government leaders, corporate executives, and experts from across the continent to share
insights on funding, investment, policy reforms, and the evolving dynamics of retail, commercial, and residential developments.
With an expected attendance of over 500 participants and more than 40 industry leaders and experts, REDA 2025 promises to be one of the most influential gatherings in Africa’s real estate sector.
Julius Berger, Subsidiaries Headline Big 5, ECOBANK Expos
Fadekemi Ajakaiye
Nigeria’s leading engineering construction company Julius Berger Nigeria PLC, last week in Lagos, led its various subsidiaries to make a commanding impression at the recently concluded BIG 5 and ECOBANK Expositions, showcasing the unique innovation, craftsmanship, and expansive portfolio alongside its subsidiaries.
While the Big 5 event took place at the historic Landmark Events Centre, the other held inside the expansive ECOBANK Pan African Centre, Lagos.
Conscious of the opportunity the development presented to stakeholders in the sector, Nigeria’s best in the provision of aluminium and glass solutions, ABUMET, the pioneer in design and engineering in the country, PrimeTech Nigeria Ltd as well as the company’s Excellence
Centre and Julius Berger Precast Services stormed the landmark event with new innovations and revised editions of their products and services at the Landmark Event Centre.
Each Julius Berger subsidiary brought their unique flair to the events. From cutting-edge architectural designs to advanced solutions and premium aluminium systems. The stands reflected the group’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and technological advancement.
A Facility Manager and officer in charge of the company’s Excellence Centre, Aleksandar Serafimoski said the Centre has a little bit more diverse portfolio.
This is our second time attending the Expo and so far, a lot of visitors are interested and intrigued by the quality of work done in the unit and we are very optimistic that the Exhibition is achieving its purpose of being
a good avenue for networking, he said.
He further said that from the huge number of visitors to the stand, more companies are willing to collaborate with us rather than individual customers. Above all, the exhibition is a good platform to be seen in the construction industry.
The Commercial Manager for the Julius Berger Precast Services, Christian Bauer, declared that we are representing Julius Berger, and what we are basically trying to do is to showcase that we are branching out into smaller scales.
Explaining further, he said that Julius Berger is currently manufacturing smaller pavements, blocks and so on as well as larger scale precast materials like pipes, U-channels among others.
The Head of Architecture Department at PrimeTech, Joseph Abba said he was excited that
the event was a well-attended event saying, thus far, we have met a lot of people we have worked with in the past and
also people that we have worked for, and potential clients as well that have many projects lines upcoming and they need design
services, especially due to the fact that they are fascinated about project that we at PrimeTech have executed.
Umahi: Only About 4 Hectares of Winhomes Estate Affected By Lagos-Calabar
Highway Alignment
Bennett Oghifo
Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi has said that only about four hectares of Winhomes Estate land were affected by the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway alignment and that the developer, Winhomes Global Services Limited, was compensated N19 million for the gatehouse that was demolished
in the construction process.
The minister, who stated this during an inspection of the highway on Monday, said the Lagos State Government, which has legal control of the land, has revoked and gazetted the area.
According to Umahi, when they inspected the site, there was “little more than a perimeter fence, a short stretch of drainage,
and a few truckloads of sand.
“The only thing we destroyed was the gatehouse, for which the enumerator graciously gave her N19 million. That is a lot of money. So where is the $250 million?” (which the developer claimed was the worth of their property affected).
He said, “The matter has gone beyond the Ministry of Works. The Lagos State govern-
ment has revoked it, they have gazetted it. The court has also ruled that we are right. So I don’t know what they are still talking about.
“We are not interested in the land. The issue of land is over. We are chasing the money. If they (diasporainvestors) were scammed, it’s going to discourage a lot of people from bringing money. So we want
to follow the money and see where it is.”
The minister’s position was corroborated by a civil society activist, Comrade Declan Hekare, who was at the site.
Hekare, who had earlier led a protest in in Lagos and Abuja in favour of the developer, said, “Coming here, I want to say clearly that what I’m seeing here is below my
expectation. If properties were destroyed, I want to see pictorial evidence of how, when, and where, and documents to prove that you actually erected A, B, C. Therefore, as a member of the civil society, I am putting it to her today: if, by the end of two weeks, I don’t see more evidence, I will address a world press conference.”
L-R: General Manager, AFP, Oliver Cohnen; Chairman, AOS Orwell, an oil services company, Omotayo Fani; Managing Director, ECOBANK, Bolaji Lawal; AFP’s Khadija Zarma and the Head, SMES, Partnerships and Collaboration, ECOBANK, Omoboye Odu, at the ECOBANK Design and Build Expo 2025 held in the Bank’s Pan African Centre, Lagos... recently
The Alliance for Economic Research and Ethics (AREET) has raised alarm over the escalating standoff between the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) and the management of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, warning that the prolonged strike could trigger an economic and energy crisis capable of reversing Nigeria’s fragile recovery.
The crisis, which erupted over the suspension and dismissal of workers at the refinery following allegations of sabotage, has already drawn the backing of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), amplifying the scale of the disruption.
AREET in a statement by its Chairman, Dele Kelvin Oye described the situation as a “severe asymmetric
shock” to energy security and macroeconomic stability, stressing that the strike threatens to plunge the country into fuel shortages, inflationary spikes, capital flight and loss of investor confidence.
The group noted that the Dangote Refinery, with a nameplate capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, was intended to end decades of reliance on imported refined petroleum products and anchor economic stability.
“Any disruption to its operations,” it warned, “could force Nigeria back to costly fuel imports, widen the trade deficit, deplete foreign reserves and put fresh pressure on the foreign exchange market.”
AREET pointed out that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) had only recently reduced the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) from 27.5 to 27 percent, citing easing inflation and improved
external reserves of about $42 billion. Those fragile gains, it cautioned, “could quickly evaporate if refinery operations remain crippled, leading to fuel scarcity, rising transport and power costs, a fresh wave of inflation, and possible reversal of monetary policy.”
The knock-on effects, the group said, would include capital flight, exchange rate depreciation, higher borrowing costs, and GDP downgrades.
The think-tank further warned that public allegations of sabotage against a flagship private investment like the Dangote Refinery could severely undermine Nigeria’s investment climate.
On the social front, AREET warned that fuel shortages could stoke public discontent, raise transportation costs, and ignite wider protests that may escalate into a national political crisis.
Addosser MFB Launches Banking App ‘Atlas Digital’
Addosser Microfinance Bank has announced the launch of Atlas Digital, a digital solution offering a refreshing and benefit-driven experience for everyday Nigerians who want more from their money and their bank.
“Whether you are a student, freelancer, business owner, or side hustler, Atlas is built to empower you with more rewards, more control, and more opportunities to grow. Atlas delivers innovation without sacrificing trust. It brings the stability of a legacy bank together with the flexibility, speed, and earning potential of next-generation fintech. We didn’t create Atlas Digital just to compete with other banks,” said a rep from the Atlas Digital team. “We created it to solve real problems — to support side hustles, to
make savings rewarding, to turn everyday banking into a tool for income and freedom. Our users want more from life, and Atlas is banking that gives you more — literally.”
“With Atlas, users can enjoy a wide range of standout features from day one. Its “Earn for Life” referral model allows you to earn when you invite someone, and keep earning every time they save or pay bills — turning everyday banking into passive income. Users can also enjoy higher interest on savings, cashback on transactions, and quick access to soft loans that support both personal and business needs.
“One of the most standout features is the Side Hustle Account — a smart way to separate your hustle money from your main account, so you can manage, grow, and track multiple income streams without confusion.
It’s perfect for freelancers, creators, vendors, and anyone juggling more than one hustle. Meanwhile, the Business Account offers entrepreneurs and small business owners powerful tools to receive payments, manage cash flow and inventory, and access funding — all in one seamless digital platform with no queues or paperwork.
“Atlas Digital also goes beyond banking with plans to introduce a gig and job discovery tool, helping users tap into income opportunities directly through the app. From financial freedom to money making opportunities, Atlas is designed and tailored to support every Nigerian dream from starting their hustle and equipping them with the tools to start and grow their businesses.
And while the app is new, its roots are solid,” it added.
Coronation Securities Wins International Awards
Kayode Tokede
The Nigerian securities trading landscape has found its standout performer for 2025, as Coronation Securities Limited captures two significant industry awards that underscore the firm’s rapid ascendancy in Africa’s financial services sector.
The firm in a statement stated that Brands Review Magazine bestowed the Best Securities Trading and Brokerage – Africa 2025 award upon the Lagos-based firm, whilst the International Finance
Awards separately recognised Coronation Securities as the Fastest Growing Online Trading Platform – Nigeria 2025.
“This dual recognition signals a watershed moment for homegrown financial services innovation across the continent. The awards arrive amid growing investor appetite for sophisticated yet accessible trading platforms,” the statement said.
Nigeria’s capital markets have historically struggled with limited retail participation, partly due to
complex access requirements and trust deficits surrounding available platforms. Coronation Securities appears to have cracked this code through its comprehensive digital approach.
“We’ve witnessed firsthand how limited access to credible trading platforms has hindered wealth creation across Africa,” explains Segun Owadokun, the firm’s Deputy, Chief Executive Officer.” Our Coronation Wealth Plus App addresses these pain points whilst maintaining the highest standards of transparency and trust.”
(Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic
Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).
Oriarehu Bonny
Investors Scramble for Sterling Holdco Share as Offer Gains Momentum
Kayode Tokede
Sterling Financial Holdings Company Plc has witnessed a very positive response to its public offer, as investors rally for a stake in the company’s future.
The public offer, launched on September 17,
2025, has quickly become one of the most talkedabout opportunities in the Nigerian financial market, with analysts predicting that the offer will prove to be amongst the most lucrative in the sector’s investment landscape.
The Sterling Public Offer has sparked widespread interest, with market experts
noting that the price, which is about 6% below its current trading price, presents an attractive entry point for both institutional and retail investors. The offer is set to close soon, but the rapid pace of interest has led many to speculate that the full subscription has already been reached or even exceeded much
earlier than expected.
According to leading financial analysts, Sterling Holdco’s strategic expansion plans, solid market position, and innovative financial products have positioned it as a major contender in Nigeria’s banking sector. The public offer is widely regarded as an exciting proposition for investors
looking to capitalise on a company with strong fundamentals and an ambitious growth trajectory. With a price point set at a discount to current trading prices, the offer is seen as a compelling opportunity for both long-term and short-term investors.
Sterling Holdco has consistently demonstrated a
commitment to innovation and sustainable growth. One of the most compelling indicators of the company’s underlying strength is the impressive growth of its share price. In the past year, the Holding company’s share price has grown steadily from N4.00 to nearly N8.00 per share.
Banki and Bula Yobe Communities: How Soldiers’ Bravery, Coordinated Offensive Restored Hope for Resettled Families
The resilience of communities rising from the ashes of displacement met the courage of Nigerian soldiers in Banki and Bula Yobe, Borno State, when ISWAP terrorists recently attempted a brutal invasion on September 18, 2025. For the more than 10,000 families who had only recently returned home after years in camps, the attack threatened to undo fragile progress in farming, rebuilding homes, and restoring normal life. But troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), backed by the Air Component, repelled the coordinated assault, shielded women, children and the elderly from displacement once more, though at the cost of the loss of a soldier and civilian. Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that this sacrifice ensured that the communities were not overrun or families forced back into exile
The plains of Banki and Bula Yobe in Borno State, once scarred by displacement and fear, are today standing as symbols of resilience thanks to the courage of Nigerian Army troops under Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK). On September 18, 2025, the fragile peace of these resettled communities, now home to more than 10,000 families, came under grave threat when Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists launched a brazen assault.
The insurgents, in a coordinated move, sought to destabilise the hard-earned peace, drive thousands back into displacement camps, and reclaim territory where families had only recently returned after years of turmoil. But what unfolded was a demonstration of gallantry, tactical superiority and sacrifice.
A Robust Defence that Turned the Tide Ground troops, supported by the Air Component of OPHK, mounted a robust defence that crushed the attackers. According to military reports, the terrorists suffered heavy losses in manpower and equipment and were forced to flee in disarray. The soldiers stood firm, denying the insurgents even the slightest ground even at the cost of the life of a soldier and a civilian.
In Banki, troops reinforced by additional formations drew a protective cordon around vulnerable civilians, women, children, and the elderly inclusive, who would have been the prime victims of the attack. Their presence shielded communities that have endured years of hardship and displacement, ensuring that families could sleep under military protection rather than in terror.
In nearby Bula Yobe, soldiers displayed remarkable tactical discipline and courage, foiling repeated enemy attempts to breach security. The troops’ resilience was especially significant for farmers who had only recently returned to till their land and rebuild their livelihoods. Their heroic actions ensured that not a single community was overrun and that families remained safe.
Praise for Gallant Troops
During an operational visit to Banki on September 19, the acting General Officer Commanding, 7 Division and Commander Sector 1 OPHK, Brigadier General Ugochukwu Unachukwu, commended the troops for their extraordinary sacrifice. He confirmed that the terrorists had been dealt a decisive blow in the joint air and ground counteroffensive.
Brigadier General Unachukwu assured residents, humanitarian agencies, and other stakeholders providing services in the area that the Nigerian Army remains unwavering in its commitment to protect the people and their means of survival. His words were a reassurance to families who had risked everything to return
home, as well as to humanitarian workers supporting their recovery.
The Price of Victory
The success, however, came at a cost. The Nigerian Army noted the loss of one gallant soldier who paid the supreme price and those injured in defence of thousands of families.
“The sacrifice of the troops and that of many others before them stands as a testament to the Army’s resolve to guarantee peace, dignity and safety for every Nigerian returning home after years of displacement,” a military statement noted.
The Army further emphasised its determination to sustain ongoing operations. “Under the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General OO Oluyede, we remain unwavering resolute to safeguarding lives and property while discharging our constitutional mandate within a joint and multi-agency operational framework.”
Heavy Losses for Insurgents as Air Power Tilts the Balance
While the defence of Banki and Bula Yobe protected more than 10,000 households, the Nigerian military also unleashed devastating counterattacks that left ISWAP severely crippled. Reports confirmed that troops called in air support after coming under heavy fire around 10:15 pm on the day of the attack. The assault targeted the Bula Yobe forward operating base, 152
Battalion, and the Divisional Police Headquarters in Banki.
The Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI was swiftly activated. Guided by intelligence and surveillance, two A-29 Super Tucano aircraft carried out multiple and successive interdiction strikes on the fleeing insurgents as they retreated northwards from Banki.
These precision strikes successfully engaged insurgents both on the move and regrouping at two assembly points where logistics were being coordinated. According to military accounts, the strikes neutralised more than 25 terrorists at the assembly areas and others fleeing the battlefield, bringing the total figure to 32.
The precision of the air operations was instrumental in turning back what could have been a devastating invasion. By hitting both retreating fighters and regrouping cells, the strikes disrupted ISWAP’s plans for further attacks and cut off their supply chains.
A Community Mourns
Despite the successful defence, tragedy touched Banki when a soldier and a nine-year-old boy were killed during the confrontation. The minor’s death underscored the continued vulnerability of civilians caught in the crossfire of insurgency.
The remains of the fallen soldier was evacuated to the Headquarters of Operation HADIN KAI in Maiduguri, while the body of the slain boy was released to his family for burial
according to Islamic rites. For residents of Banki, the grief of losing a child was a painful reminder of the fragile line between safety and tragedy in conflict-torn communities.
Reinforcements and Reassurance
In the wake of the attacks, military authorities confirmed that additional reinforcements have been deployed to stabilise Banki and its surroundings. These measures aim to strengthen security and reassure residents that their safety remains the Army’s top priority.
Stressing on the resilience and determination of the Nigerian Army to sustain ongoing operations, especially under the current leadership, the army authorities also reiterated its resolve to guarantee peace and dignity for communities rising from the ashes of war. Gratitude to the Fallen
For many Nigerians, the events in Banki and Bula Yobe highlight both the immense risks faced by soldiers on the frontlines and the resilience of communities striving to rebuild. “Nigerians owe the injured gallant troops and fallen heroes a debt of gratitude for keeping hope alive in communities rising from the ashes of war,” the Army stated.
Their sacrifices have secured not just land or territory but also the dignity of families who now dare to farm again, send children to school, and live in homes rebuilt from ruins. For the people of Banki and Bula Yobe, the recent victory symbolises more than a military success, it represents the defence of life, livelihood, and hope.
While ISWAP has been dealt a blow, security experts caution that the insurgency is far from over. The ability of militants to launch coordinated attacks, even after years of military pressure, underlines the persistent threat. Yet, the events of September 2025 also highlight how joint operations, intelligence-driven air power, and ground troops’ resilience can shift the balance in favour of communities.
For residents of Borno State, the defence of Banki and Bula Yobe sends a powerful message: they are not alone in their struggle to reclaim normal life from the grip of terror. The courage of Nigerian troops stands as a shield against fear, enabling families to look to the future with hope.
As the sun sets over the fields of Banki, farmers have returned to their crops and even children play in courtyards. Life, though fragile, continues under the protection of soldiers who have pledged to stand guard. And though the scars of war remain, so too does the determination to rise, rebuild, and resist and this rings true for all affected communities.
COAS, Lt. Gen. Oluyede
Education
Ending FGM: Schools as Safe Campaign Platforms
Oyo state Ministry of Information and Orientation, in partnership with UnICeF, is leading a push to end Female Genital Mutilation in nigeria by 2030, rallying teachers, survivors, men, and community leaders to challenge harmful myths and protect the next generation. Funmi Ogundare reports
In a modest classroom at Wisdom High School, Igueben, Benin City, Mrs. Doris Akhere stands before her students, teaching English and Civic Education. But beyond grammar rules and civic duties, she carries a deeper mission, one she believes can save lives and futures.
“I tell young girls and young mothers every chance I get, Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is not of God, it is not in the Bible, and it only brings pain,” she said with conviction.
For Akhere, who doubles as the school’s VicePrincipal, the fight against FGM is personal and urgent, she told THISDAY at a two-day media dialogue in Edo State, organised by the Oyo State Ministry of Information and Orientation, in partnership with UNICEF.
“I was circumcised just eight days after birth, an ordeal that caused severe bleeding and kept me at Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) for three months. My family acted on a long-held belief that uncircumcised girls would grow up to be promiscuous. It was not until senior secondary school two, during a Biology class, that I discovered the truth. We were taught that the clitoris is a sensitive organ. That was when I realised what had been taken away from me,” she stated.
According to her, during the holidays, she confronted her mother with what she had learned. Her mother could only apologise, admitting that the act had been a mistake.
The survivor stated that she has taken the message beyond the classroom walls, into churches and community meetings, determined to confront myths that continue to fuel the harmful practice.
She recalled a moment during a church programme when a man challenged her, insisting that an uncircumcised girl would “jump from one man to another”.
“No, it’s not true. The pamphlet I read from UNICEF said it clearly, it’s a myth. It’s not biblical. The Bible only speaks about male circumcision, never females,” she noted.
Akhere paints a vivid picture of the physical and emotional scars left behind by FGM.
“It is like punishing the girl. The surface that should be smooth becomes rough, scarred for life. Beyond the pain, it can cause infections, even ovarian cysts. There is nothing beautiful about it,” she explained.
Her advocacy extends beyond theory. Recently, she received a distress call from a friend whose mother-in-law was pressuring her to circumcise her granddaughter.
“I told her, if she insists, let me know. We will report to the police, female lawyers, and human rights groups. Thankfully, the pressure stopped,” Akhere said.
For her, awareness is a shield and young girls must learn to wield it.
“I tell them, tomorrow you will marry into
families you don’t know. Stand your ground. Say no. Protect your daughters when you have them,” she said.
Still, she worries about a generation of girls in Benin City who, left unsupervised by parents working in distant villages, are vulnerable to societal pressures and misconceptions. Some, she observed, mistake outward appearances like wearing multiple earrings as a path to acceptance or quick money.
“They don’t know what they are doing,” she added.
But in her classroom, the vice-principal chooses hope. She blends her teaching of civic values with lessons of self-worth and courage. For her students, the message is clear, their bodies are not objects of tradition or control, but vessels of dignity.
“FGM is not cultural progress, it is harm. It is not biblical. It is punishment,” she stated. “And as long as I have a voice, I will keep telling young girls and parents the truth.”
Another survivor, Jessica Moses, 38, (not real name), described the practice as damaging and without any benefit, urging parents and communities to shun it to protect the next generation.
She recalled how she was cut as a child, believing at the time that her parents intended to protect her. She said many families see the practice as a way of preparing girls for marriage, but do not realise the physical and emotional harm it inflicts.
“It causes a lot of damage. Our parents thought they were protecting us, but they didn’t know they were hurting us. It leaves scars, not just physically but also emotionally,” she said.
Moses explained that survivors of FGM often suffer in silence, struggling with pain, loss of confidence, and trauma that can affect relationships and childbearing. She disclosed how, growing up, girls like her were made to believe that circumcision was a requirement for marriage, a belief that left many fearful and vulnerable.
She reiterated that FGM has no health benefit and instead, creates long-term suffering for women, adding, that society “must reject the idea that it brings dignity or protection” because there is nothing “peaceful about it”.
Moses also called for greater empowerment of women and girls through education and small businesses, stressing that giving them financial independence and confidence would help break the cycle of harmful traditional practices.
In his presentation, Child Protection Specialist, UNICEF, Denis Onoise, stated that FGM has serious implications for the sexual and reproductive health of girls and women, adding that the practice is prevalent in Oyo, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti and Edo.
“Women and girls have right to the highest attainable standards of health, right to life and physical integrity including freedom from violence,” he said.
He explained that cutting the clitoris robs women of their sexual health, a consequence that leaves lasting physical and psychological scars.
Onoise further argued that FGM is neither a necessity nor a cultural practice that should be sustained, saying that subjecting girls to the harmful procedure undermines their happiness and overall well-being.
He urged communities to abandon the practice in order to protect the dignity and future of women and girls.
A FGM Development Expert, Aderonke Olutayo, emphasised that the involvement of men and boys is crucial in driving change, particularly in communities where FGM is most prevalent. She described FGM as a deep-rooted cultural and traditional practice that continues to endanger the health and rights of girls and women.
According to her, survivors often face shame and denial, while lacking access to psychosocial support and healthcare.
“In many communities, FGM is still regarded as a rite of passage and a marital requirement. It is wrongly seen as a way to preserve purity and control sexuality,” she stated.
Olutayo highlighted several factors that hinder efforts to end the practice, including the absence of safe and confidential reporting systems, fear of stigma and social exclusion,
limited awareness of laws protecting women and girls, and the silence of many survivors who continue to live with trauma.
The expert reiterated the importance of engaging men in advocacy against FGM, calling for stronger capacity-building for patent medicine vendors, doctors, nurses, and midwives, alongside improved referral systems and coordination across health, justice, media, and law enforcement sectors.
Celine Lafoucrier, Chief of UNICEF Lagos Field Office, described the fight against FGM in Nigeria as both urgent and achievable, warning that the country cannot afford to ignore the scale of the crisis.
According to her, nearly 20 million women and girls in Nigeria have undergone FGM, making the country the third highest globally. She stated that about 86 per cent of affected women report that their FGM occurred before age five. Despite being outlawed, the practice continues across many communities, driven by myths and cultural traditions.
According to the Nigeria Democratic Health Survey, key findings indicate that the prevalence of FGM among Nigerian women is on the decline. Currently, 20 per cent of women aged 15 to 49 have undergone the practice, a drop from figures recorded in 2013.
The data also reveals that most of the procedures occur in early childhood, with 86 per cent of circumcised women cut before the age of five. Only five per cent reported undergoing the practice at age 15 or older, underscoring the vulnerability of young girls who are unable to give consent.
NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com
Knife and razor blade used for Female Genital Mutilation
Mrs. Doris Akhere addressing participants at the two-day media dialogue to support advocacy to end Female Genital Mutilation in Nigeria
From left: Mr.Tani Fafunwa; Dr. Soji Adewumi, guest speaker; Prof. Barth Nnaji, chairman; Hon.Tolani Sule, special guest of honour; and Prof. Sheri Fafunwa- Ndibe, at the 2025 Fafunwa Educational Foundation annual programme held at MUSON Centre, Lagos, recently
Airtel Africa Foundation to Drive Financial Empowerment,
Education, Environmental Protection
Funmi Ogundare
Airtel Africa Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Airtel Africa plc, has announced its plan to directly improve the lives of 10 million people across the continent by 2030 through initiatives focused on education financial empowerment, environmental protection, and digital inclusion.
Speaking with journalists recently in Lagos, the Chairman of the foundation, Dr. Segun Ogunsanya, who unveiled the strategy, said the vision is to transform Africa by building talent, fostering innovation, and ensuring that no one is left behind in the global digital revolution.
“We are not just donating resources, we are building a pipeline of talent and fostering innovation to ensure that the global digital revolution leaves no African behind. This is a strategic, measurable commitment to unlocking the continent’s demographic dividend,” he said.
The foundation plans to execute its mission through targeted programmes such as Connecting Schools, which provides free connectivity and devices, and the Airtel Africa Fellowship, offering full scholarships in tech and
STEM fields along with mentorship and internship opportunities.
One of its early successes is its ongoing partnership with UNICEF, which has already connected more than 1,800 schools, reached over one million students, and trained more than 17,000 teachers in digital education across 14 African countries.
Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Africa, Sunil Taldar, underscored the company’s commitment to sustainable development, saying that business growth must go hand-in-hand with community impact. “We cannot thrive in a place that is not thriving. This understanding is the very reason the Airtel Africa Foundation was born. It is our vehicle to catalyse transformation, by systematically investing in the pillars that underpin a resilient and dynamic society,” he said.
The foundation will also expand its Employee Volunteer Programme (EVP) harnessing staff skills and passion to drive community initiatives. For the 2025/26 financial year, it has set expansion targets to activate programmes in all its operating countries, including Nigeria, Zambia, Malawi, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
YABATECH Rector Charges Consult Arm on Sustainable Growth
Funmi Ogundare
The Rector of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), Dr. Ibraheem Abdul, has urged the management of the institution’s consultancy and business subsidiary, YABATECH Consult Limited, to chart a path for sustainable growth and reposition the outfit as a global leader in consultancy and innovation.
Abdul, who said this at the 2025 annual management retreat of YABATECH Consult, themed, ‘Our Dreamed YABATECH Consult: Revamping the Past and Reshaping the Future for Sustainable Growth’, described the gathering as a defining moment in the history of the organisation.
He stressed that the retreat offers an opportunity to reflect on past achievements, set new goals, and realign strategies for the future.
“This retreat marks a critical juncture in our journey, a strategic opportunity to reflect on our past, set new goals, and chart a course for sustainable growth and success,” he said.
The rector restated that the consultancy outfit will henceforth be run as an ideal business entity, free from civil service-style interference, and managed like a successful private enterprise.
In his remarks, the acting
Host Community Boosts FCE’s Admission Drive, Awards Scholarships to Some Pioneer Students
The new Federal College of Education (FCE), Ofeme Ohuhu Umuahia, Abia State, says it has continued to enjoy the support of its host community in its admission drive for pioneer students.
The pioneer Provost, Dr. Titus Ezeme stated this at the maiden matriculation ceremony for the pioneer NCE students last week.
According to him, the admission drive led to the enrolment of 150 students with 70 or 47 per cent of the student population being sponsored by some illustrious sons of the host community.
Ezeme stated that the benefactors include two foreign-based medical practitioners, Dr. Michael Igwe and Dr. Chris
Nwosu, who awarded scholarships to 30 and 20 students resectively, while Hon Anderson Akaliro and Chief Ifeanyi Anyaogu are sponsoring 10 students each.
He said that the maiden matriculation ceremony marked the “true birth” of the college, which commenced academic activities on June 24, 2025, two years after it was established through the presidential approval by late Muhammadu Buhari.
“The matriculation ceremony is not just about the formal admission of our pioneer students, it is a testimony that a seed planted with faith and nurtured with sacrifice can grow into a flourishing tree that will shelter many generations,” the provost said.
He noted that the new FCE has attracted interventions in
infrastructural development from the federal government “as part of deliberate efforts to ensure its steady development.”
According to him, the Federal Ministry of Education has awarded contract for the construction of a 74-room female hostel, which “is already ongoing and has reached appreciable level of completion.”
Ezeme announced that the college has been allocated a take off-grant by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), adding that the contractor is expected to commence work soon on the selected projects for the grant.
He appealed to corporate organisations and public spirited individuals to assist the young FCE to get the facilities needed to attain its full potential and provide conducive environment for learning and research, as
government cannot provide everything.
The provost said that the college is in need facilities like a multipurpose hall, modern lecture theatres and academic staff blocks, complexes for the approved schools, reliable generating set, college access road, modern library, modern administrative building, among others.
While assuring the students that their “welfare is, and will remain at the very heart of our mission”, he charged them to acquire the knowledge, skills, and discipline befitting true graduates of the institution.
The Chairman of the Governing Council, Hajia Rabia Hussain Adamu underscored the need to establish FCEs, saying that Nigeria is facing shortage of teachers, which has reached a crisis situation.
the participants
Managing Director of the consult, Mr. Mojeed Akinlabi, outlined the retreat’s objectives, which include enhancing operations for improved revenue generation, introducing private sector-driven initiatives, and aligning strategies with longterm sustainability goals. He noted that the retreat would provide a platform to review the company’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, while fostering teamwork and innovation.
Quoting author Brian Herbert, Akinlabi stated, “The capacity to learn is a gift; the ability to learn is a skill; and the willingness to learn is a choice. Today, we have the gift, the skill, and the choice as we look back at our past and build the future of YABATECH Consult.”
The three-day retreat featured plenary sessions, workshops, and strategy-building exercises with contributions from consultants, partners, and industry experts. Over the years, YABATECH Consult has provided training, entrepreneurship development, advisory, and capacity-building services to both public and private sector organisations.
The retreat is expected to sharpen the vision of the consultancy, strengthen its contribution to the college’s internally generated revenue, and reinforce its role in advancing Nigeria’s development goals.
BIG Restates Commitment to Education Devt at Let There Be Teachers Conference
Uchechukwu Nnaike
BIC, a global leader in stationery, lighters and shavers, has reaffirmed its commitment to education in Nigeria by spotlighting the vital role of teachers at the Let There Be Teachers Conference in Lagos.
The landmark event, which set a new Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of teachers, provided a platform for dialogue on strengthening education, and celebrated teachers as key drivers of national development.
With education at the core of its sustainability agenda and in alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4, Quality Education, BIC has
pledged to improve learning conditions and enhance access to quality education for millions of children worldwide.
This is also in line with its commitment to improving learning conditions for 250 million students by 2025. In Nigeria, the company aims to achieve that through a holistic approach to education starting with equipping classrooms with the necessary writing tools for academic performance, creating inspirational learning environments, unleashing creativity outside of the classroom, all the way to supporting students as they transition from the academic to the professional world and integrate into the workforce.
Speaking at the conference,
General Manager of BIC Nigeria, Anthony Amahwe said: “The belief that education is the backbone of societal progress and development is rooted in BIC’s DNA. This is a key driver for us to continue to support millions of students and teachers and play a key role in raising a generation capable of building sustainable and productive societies.
Now, more than ever, we must strengthen education, not just as a path to employment, but as a foundation for self-expression, creativity, and deep understanding of our environment,” he said.
The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (SSAPSDGs), Princess Adejoke Orelope-
Adefulire, stressed the need to address systemic education challenges and emphasized that teachers must be at the centre of reform efforts.
Keynote sessions and panel discussions reflected the urgency of strengthening Nigeria’s education system, with themes ranging from building a sustainable nation one classroom at a time to empowering teachers for quality education, and repositioning the teaching profession for national development.
Experts and stakeholders explored ways to enhance teachers’ status, integrate technology and innovation into learning, reform education policies, and promote strong leadership for transformation in the sector.
ASCON DG Named 2025/2026 AIG-Blavatnik
Visiting Fellow at
Funmi Ogundare
The Director-General of the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON), Mrs. Funke Adepoju, has been selected as the 2025/2026 Visiting Fellow of the AIG-Blavatnik School of Government at the University of Oxford.
Oxford
Her appointment places her among an exclusive group of distinguished Nigerians who have received the fellowship since its inception, including former INEC Chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega, and former FIRS Chairman, Mrs. Ifueko Omoigui-Okauru. A seasoned administrator
and reform advocate, Adepoju currently leads ASCON with a focus on transforming the institution from a traditional training provider to a national reform hub and reform accelerator.
Her agenda prioritises linking capacity building with reform outcomes, embedding digital governance into public sector training, and aligning with Nigeria’s Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2025 (FCSSIP-25), as well as the Renewed Hope agenda. Reacting to the announcement, Adepoju described the fellowship as both a personal and national milestone.
Some of
at the Let There Be Teachers Conference in Lagos, which set a new Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of teachers... recently
Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia
Tributes Pour in as Tinubu, First Lady, Governors, Wike, NUPRC, NGE, PANDEF,
Tributes poured in yesterday from across the country following the death of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a prominent news anchor, reporter, and producer with ARISE News Channel, with fans, colleagues, leaders, and other concerned Nigerians expressing their deep admiration and sadness.
Maduagwu, fondly known as “Sommie” by colleagues, was killed in the early hours of Monday during an armed robbery at her residence in the Katampe area of Abuja.
The depth of the national mourning was evident in the list of high-profile figures and organisations that expressed their condolences, including President Bola Tinubu, First Lady, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, governors of Osun, Abia, Anambra, Ogun, and Akwa Ibom states, and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.
Others were Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the management of Sun Newspapers Limited, Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), Labour Party (LP), and Channels TV, among others.
Her sudden demise, which had sparked a national outcry about insecurity and systemic failures, marked the loss of a vibrant voice known for her dedication to journalism and social advocacy.
Police: Committed to Finding Perpetrators
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command said it had commenced a discreet and comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the murder of the journalist and lawyer.
The Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, Ajao Adewale, who ordered the probe, also directed the deployment of intelligence and operational assets to identify, track, and apprehend those responsible for the heinous crime.
Adewale extended his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Maduagwu.
A statement by the spokesperson of the command, SP Josephine Adeh, said the command deeply commiserated with the bereaved family and the media community and pledged that every effort will be made to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The police commissioner described the incident as a cruel and senseless act that should have no place in a sane society. He assured the public that the command remained fully committed to ensuring that justice was served.
While reiterating the command’s unwavering commitment to public safety and the prevention of similar occurrences, Adewale called on the public to support ongoing investigations by providing timely and useful information to the police.
He urged all FCT residents to raise prompt alarms in any suspicious situation, with a view to denying criminal elements the freedom to operate.
President Tinubu: She was a Brilliant News Anchor
Describing her as a brilliant news anchor, Tinubu, yesterday, charged security and law enforcement agencies to fish out the killers of Maduagwu.
The president, in a statement issued by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, directed the security agencies to conduct a quick and thorough investigation into the incident and ensure that the perpetrators were apprehended and brought to justice without delay. Tinubu said he received with deep sorrow the news of the tragic passing of “Sommie” Maduagwu, “a brilliant news anchor with Arise News Television, who was killed during an attack by robbers at her residence in Katampe, Abuja.”
He extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of Maduagwu, the management and staff of Arise News Television, and the entire Nigerian media fraternity over the painful loss.
According to the president, “Ms Maduagwu was a promising professional journalist whose life was cut short in a cruel and condemnable manner.”
While commiserating with the bereaved family, Tinubu assured Nigerians that his administration remained committed to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens and will continue to strengthen measures aimed at combating crime in all forms.
First Lady Remi Tinubu: She was a Dedicated and Promising Journalist
In her condolence message, the wife of the president, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, described Maduagwu’s untimely death as painful and quite unfortunate.
The first lady, in a statement yesterday, said, “I woke up to the sad news of the unfortunate and untimely death of one of our young and brilliant minds in the journalism profession, Somtochukwu Maduagwu. Her death is painful and quite unfortunate.
“She has been cut down in her prime. I condole with the chairman Arise News Media, Chief Nduka Obaigbena, her family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones. It is my hope and prayer that the perpetrators will be apprehended as soon as possible and brought to book.
“May her soul rest in peace, and may God give her family, and all her dear ones the fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss.”
Gov. Soludo: Maduagwu was a Shining Star Prematurely Extinguished
The fovernor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, expressed profound sadness and deep sense of loss over the heart-breaking news of the passing of Maduagwu.
Soludo said the news anchor, who was better known as Sommie, was a distinguished daughter of Anambra State.
In his condolence message, Soludo described Maduagwu as a shining star whose light had been prematurely extinguished.
He stated, “At just 29 years old, she had already distinguished herself as a lawyer-turned news anchor, reporter, and producer with ARISE News Channel, where her vibrant voice and professional excellence connected with audiences
across Nigeria and beyond.
“A lawyer by training and a journalist by passion, Sommie exemplified the industrious and excellence-driven spirit for which Anambra indigenes are renowned.”
Soludo lamented that the death of the journalist, who was cut down in the prime of her youth and career by criminal elements, was not only a personal tragedy to her family, but also a loss to Anambra State, the journalism profession, and, indeed, the entire nation. He said, “That such a promising young woman, who worked diligently to inform and educate the public, should meet such a violent and senseless end is deeply disturbing and unacceptable.
“On behalf of the government, and the entire people of Anambra State, I extend my sincere condolences to Sommie’s parents, siblings, extended family members, friends, colleagues at ARISE News Channel, and all who knew and loved her.”
Soludo called on the Nigeria Police to conduct a thorough, swift, and transparent investigation into the terrible crime and ensure that the perpetrators were apprehended and brought to justice expeditiously.
Gov. Abiodun: She was a Vibrant Voice
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, described the killing of the ARISE News anchor, Maduagwu, as a most horrendous event that must be quickly unravelled in the interest of justice.
Abiodun said he received news of the 29-year-old’s brutal killing by armed robbers with profound shock. He commiserated with the management and staff of Arise News, urging them not to allow their spirits to be dampened by the sad incident, but take solace in the legacy of truth and forthrightness that the deceased left behind.
In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Hon Kayode Akinmade, Abiodun urged the security agencies to work together and unravel the killers of the news anchor in the shortest possible time.
He said, “The killing of the popular, extremely versatile and personable news anchor on Monday, September 29, 2025, during an armed robbery incident in her residence in Katampe area of Abuja is a most horrendous, chilling event whose perpetrators must be quickly tracked down and brought to justice.
“For every hour that the perpetrators are left un-apprehended, Nigeria suffers colossal mental and institutional damage. The killers must be fished out very quickly, tried and sentenced in accordance with the law.
“Sommie, 29, a lawyer and vibrant voice that engaged and connected with Nigerians daily, must not be allowed to die in vain. The killers must be punished most severely and very quickly.”
The governor added, “I commiserate with her parents, family and friends, and the staffers of Arise News on this most unfortunate incident.
“It is my sincere prayer that Almighty God will comfort their hearts in this terrible hour and give them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”
Gov. Eno: Her Professionalism and Passion Greatly Enriched Lives
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Bassey Eno, joined thousands of people across the country to mourn the sudden death of Maduagwu. Eno, in a condolence message yesterday to Chairman of ARISE Media Group, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, expressed deep sadness over the tragic and untimely death of Sommie. The governor, in the message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Ekerete Udoh, described Sommie as “a brilliant, dedicated, and promising journalist whose eloquence, professionalism, and
passion greatly enriched news anchorage and inspired countless viewers across the country”.
Eno added, “She had a great future ahead of her. At just 29, she had traversed the worlds of beauty pageantry, law, and the media with brilliance, panache, and poise. Her demise is not only a great loss to ARISE Media Group and the Maduagwu family, but also to the Nigerian media as a whole.”
Gov. Adeleke: She Had Unwavering Commitment to Truth in Her Reportage
The governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, expressed sadness over the passing of Maduagwu.
Adeleke, who said he was deeply shaken by the news of the sudden death of Maduagwu, extended heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of the young media personality.
The governor also commiserated with the management and staff of ARISE NEWS Channel, who lost a highly resourceful team member, stating that her creative and appealing style of news casting will linger in memories for a very long time.
Adeleke said, “I’m disheartened to learn about the unfortunate passing of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, an ARISE TV News Anchor and Producer. While she was alive, Maduagwu won hearts with her professionalism and an unwavering commitment to truth in her reportages.”
The governor stated, “On behalf of the good people of Osun State, I convey my heartfelt condolences to her immediate family, the Management and staff of ARISE NEWS Channel, and everyone touched by this devastating loss.”
Adeleke prayed God Almighty to repose the soul of the journalist and grant her family, colleagues, and everyone touched by her passing the fortitude to bear the pain, adding, “It is my sincere hope that her good works in the short time she spent here will not die with her.”
Gov. Otti: She was Regrettably a Flourishing Career Brought to an Abrupt End
Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, expressed sadness over the death of Ms. Maduagwu.
Otti, in a statement yesterday, said he was “shocked and pained by the untimely death of the talented broadcaster, and regrets that her beautiful life and flourishing career were brought to an abrupt end by criminals who have no regard for human life”.
The Abia State governor called on security agents to dig deep and ensure that the perpetrators of the crime were unmasked, brought to justice, and made to pay for their actions.
While praying God to grant the soul of Ms. Maduagwu eternal peace in God’s bosom, Otti sent condolences to the management and staff of ARISE TV, as well as to the family, loved ones, and friends of the deceased, urging them to be consoled by the beautiful and impactful life she lived and the promise of life in the hereafter.
Wike: A Wonderful Soul Cut Down in Its Prime
Federal Capital Territory (FCT) minister, Nyesom Wike, yesterday, commiserated with the management and staff of Arise News Channel over the death of Maduagwu, describing her death as tragic and painful.
Wike, in a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, prayed for the repose of the soul of Somtochukwu and assured that the police will unravel the circumstances surrounding her death and bring those responsible to justice.
He described the death of Somtochukwu as not only a loss to Arise News family but also to the Nigerian media and the entire nation.
“I feel pained that such a wonderful soul could be cut down in its prime. It is sad!” Wike said.
The statement added that from the report by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) Mandate Secretary on Health, Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, Somtochukwu was brought to the Maitama General Hospital dead about 4:30am on Monday.
He stated, “Preliminary medical report will
be made available to the police to aid their investigation while all efforts will be made to unravel the circumstances surrounding her death.
“Therefore, at this period, we will continue to pray for the continued support of the Almighty God for the staff and management of the Arise News, especially the Chairman, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, and the family and friends left behind by the deceased.
“It is my prayer that God in His infinite mercies will accept her soul and give her family members, friends, and associates the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”
NGE: A Loss to Future of Journalism
Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), yesterday, expressed sadness over the death of Somtochukwu.
According to a statement signed by the Guild’s President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, “By Somtochukwu’s untimely death, journalism has lost not just a good professional who was committed to shedding light on important issues and giving voice to the voiceless, but also one who represented the future of journalism in the country.”
The statement added, “The loss of this dedicated journalist from an armed robbery incident is a stark reminder of the dangers Nigerians face daily in their homes and on the street.
“We cannot help but reflect on the issue of insecurity that plagues our nation. The increasing frequency of armed robbery, kidnapping, banditry, insurgency, and other violent crimes has created an environment of fear and uncertainty for both citizens and professionals like journalists.
“We demand action from the government to address the root causes of insecurity and take measures to ensure the safety and security of all citizens. We demand that those responsible for Somtochukwu’s death be fished out by security agencies and made to face the full weight of the law.”
NGE said, “At this difficult time, we stand in solidarity with Arise News and the broader journalism community. We pray that the memory of this talented young journalist who died at her prime inspire excellence in journalism, even in the face of adversity.
“May the memory of this vibrant journalist be a blessing to all who knew her.”
Labour Party: Her Death Direct Fallout of Nigeria’s Insecurity
The Senator Nenadi Usman-led Labour Party (LP), yesterday, called on the federal government to declare a state of emergency in Nigeria’s security sector and establish private detective institutes to assist security agencies. This followed the demise of Arise Television’s news anchor, Ms. Maduagwu, during an armed robbery attack at her Abuja residence.
that her passing underscores the worsening state of insecurity in the country.
The statement said, “The Labour Party of Nigeria deeply commiserates with Arise TV, one of Africa’s foremost broadcast organisations, on the sudden passing of one of their brilliant and promising anchors.
“The death of this young broadcaster and lawyer at just 29 is a direct fallout of Nigeria’s distressing and persistent insecurity.”
The statement lamented the rising rate of violent crimes nationwide, stressing that Nigerians are unsafe in their homes, schools, and on highways despite huge security budgets.
It also highlighted reports showing that while Nigeria is not at war, its daily casualty rate from violent crimes rivals or exceeds that of war-torn regions.
Calling for urgent action, LP urged the federal government to prioritise citizen safety by investing in modern surveillance infrastructure, such as CCTV networks in urban and rural areas, and considering legislation to recognise private detectives as a profession in Nigeria.
The party added, “It is time for the government to make security a distinct priority rather than allowing huge security votes to be diverted. Investments should go into protecting lives and property so that young talents like Somtochukwu can live out their full potential in service to the nation.”
The party extended its condolences to Maduagwu’s family, colleagues, and the management of Arise TV, praying for her soul to rest in peace.
Sun Newspaper: A Bright Light Taken Too Soon
Chairman/Publisher of The Sun Newspaper, Neya Kalu, commiserated with Chairman, THISDAY Media Group/ ARISE News Channel, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, on the tragic and untimely passing of ARISE News Anchor, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu.
In the condolence letter dated September 30, 2025, Kalu expressed profound sadness over the tragic death of Maduagwu, describing her as one of journalism’s bright lights who was taken far too soon.
She stated that at just 29 years old, Maduagwu, profoundly called Sommie by colleagues, had so much more to give to the profession she loved and served with such dedication.
Kalu said, “As a colleague in the media industry, I have long admired the work of journalists like Sommie who bring stories to life with passion, integrity, and professionalism.
“Her role as a News Anchor, Reporter, and Producer at ARISE News Channel showcased not only her journalistic talent but also her
commitment to informing and connecting with audiences across Nigeria and beyond.
“The violent circumstances of her death are deeply disturbing and underscore the serious security challenges facing our nation. No one should lose their life in such a senseless manner, especially not in the safety of their own home.
“We join ARISE News Channel in calling for a swift, thorough investigation and the prosecution of those responsible for this heinous crime.
“On behalf of The Sun Publishing, I extend our deepest condolences to you, the entire THISDAY family, ARISE News Channel, and most especially to Sommie’s parents, siblings, extended family, and friends. Please know that we share in your grief during this difficult time.”
Kalu prayed for the soul of the deceased to rest in perfect peace and that her family find strength and comfort in the knowledge that her life, though tragically cut short, made a meaningful difference.
NUPRC: She was Cut Short in Her Prime
The management of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) commiserated with Arise Television over the painful loss of its news anchor and producer, Maduagwu.
In a condolence letter, NUPRC prayed that God Almighty grant her family and colleagues the strength to bear the loss.
The letter read, “The death of a loved one is a tragic experience, but even more painful is the fact that Miss Maduagwu’s life was cut short in her prime.
“I therefore, on behalf of the management of the NUPRC, extend my heartfelt condolences to the Maduagwu family and the entire Arise Television team. I pray that God Almighty gives them the fortitude to bear this loss as we await the outcome of the police investigation.”
PANDEF: She Was an Exceptional Lady Who Left a Remarkable Impression
Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) expressed sorrow over the death of Maduagwu, describing her passing as a devastating loss to the nation.
In a condolence letter addressed to Arise Television Chairman, Dr. Nduka Obaigbena, PANDEF’s National Chairman, Dr. Godknows Igali, said the news of Sommie’s demise came as a “total shock and grief,” not only to her family and colleagues but also to the entire country.
Igali described the late broadcaster as an exceptional lady who combined intelligence, boldness, and beauty with professionalism, leaving a remarkable impression as an anchor on Arise TV.
“Without doubt, she was an exceptional lady, intelligent, bold, a beauty queen and anchor who had graced our screens for the past one year with poise and glamour,” he wrote. He extended heartfelt condolences to the management and staff of Arise Television as well as to Sommie’s family, stating that while words may offer little comfort in such a time of sorrow, her memory will remain evergreen.
Igali Maduagwu’s urged colleagues and loved ones to take solace in the positive impact she made within her short but purposeful life.
Referencing the Holy Bible, he added: “To be absent from the body is to be with the Lord; 2 Corinthians 5:8.
“Thank God, she has left great imprints in the sands of time. Her world and achievements remind us to number our days and apply our hearts to wisdom.”
He prayed for the repose of her soul and encouraged her family and colleagues to find strength in the legacy she left behind.
Channels TV Express Shock, Sadness
Channels Media Group, owners of Channels Television, in a condolence message signed by its Chairman, John Momoh, and addressed to Chairman of Arise Media Group, Nduka Obaigbena, said on behalf of the Channels family, “I write with a heavy heart to express our deepest sympathy on the sudden passing of miss Somtochukwu maduagwu.
Continued on page 73
In a statement issued in Abuja, LP’s Interim National Publicity Secretary, Tony Akeni, described Maduagwu’s death as shocking and painful, stating
POLITY
President Tinubu’s Bold Statement At UNGA 80 And The Impact On Global Governance
By Stanley Nkwocha
The 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) just concluded in New York, United States. However, what has continued to dominate national discourse is President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s national statement to world leaders at the annual event. His bold policy statement demanding reforms in global governance has strengthened Nigeria’s international standing as one of Africa’s foremost economies.
In the statement that captured the attention of participants and the world in general, President Tinubu unequivocally called for multifaceted reforms of the UN, focusing on key areas that require immediate attention. And Vice President Kashim Shettima, who delivered Nigeria’s policy statement on his behalf, nailed it for Mr President.
One of the key aspects of VP Shettima’s capacity to represent his boss is his ability to understand and articulate the President’s vision. His presentations reflect Tinubu’s policies and ideas, demonstrating a deep understanding of the President’s mind and work.
The Vice President’s adeptness at representing the President effectively has been evident at various international fora. With the brilliance with which he marshalled and delivered President Tinubu’s foreign policy statement, Nigeria’s voice was clear and loud at the international gathering.
Unlike some world leaders who made their growing disenchantment fully palpable in their addresses at the global stage, President Tinubu did not require any show of righteous indignation to pass on the message of Nigeria and the continent. Subtly, he appealed to the interest of the international community instead of the regional interest. Categorically, he warned that the global body must embrace sweeping restructuring or face growing irrelevance, with world events increasingly bypassing its influence.
One of Nigeria’s primary concerns is the reform of the UN Security Council. The Nigerian leader stood his ground in demanding a permanent seat for Nigeria and Africa in the Council. He argued that this is the only way the country’s growing population, economic influence, and contributions to global peacekeeping would be reflected.
President Tinubu’s point of contention on this is clear: Nigeria, a nation that has transformed from “a colony of 20 million people, absent from the tables where decisions about our fate were taken” to “a sovereign nation of over 236 million, projected to be the third most populous country in the world, with one of the youngest and most dynamic populations on earth,” is politically and morally certified to represent Africa on the UN Security Council. This move is part of a broader process of institutional reform aimed at making the UN more representative and effective.
President Tinubu’s address accentuates Nigeria’s commitment to peace, development, unity, multilateralism, and human rights. He emphasised the need for reform and cooperation in tackling global challenges, including climate change, irregular migration, and financial instability. His diplomatic approach seeks to foster partnerships and cooperation, showcasing his negotiation skills. The President identified an underlying pattern missing in the UN: the need for a more inclusive and effective multilateral system. For the most part, he took a pragmatic view of multilateralism, regarding it as useful but
only when it is all-inclusive. By addressing the challenges and opportunities outlined in his policy statement, nations can work towards a better future for all. The emphasis on reform, cooperation, and collective action underscores the importance of multilateralism in achieving global peace and development.
On the global front, President Tinubu declared Nigeria’s support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He described this approach as “the most dignified path” to lasting peace, stressing that Palestinians “are not collateral damage in a civilisation searching for order,” but human beings deserving of the same freedom and dignity as everyone else. He urged the international community to take concrete actions to protect Palestinian lives and facilitate a peaceful resolution.
By advocating for a two-state solution, President Tinubu’s stance aligns with other countries, including the United Kingdom, France, Canada, Australia, and Portugal, which have also called for Palestinian statehood. This move marks a significant moment in Nigeria’s foreign policy posture, showcasing its commitment to peace, human rights, and collective security.
Sadly, unpatriotic and unscrupulous politicians in Nigeria have lashed out at the Palestine issue to score cheap political points.
The opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC) faulted President Tinubu’s two-state solution stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, saying he failed to address the worsening insecurity and economic hardship in Nigeria.
But this is a view based, in the first place, on a misleading oversimplification and ignorance of the nuances and complexities of global politics of the time. Fortunately, well-meaning Nigerians have described the opposition’s stance as unnecessary critique, emphasising the need for politicians to prioritise national and global interests over partisan politics, especially when it comes to sensitive issues like human suffering. On Palestine, the critics are hereby handed a damning verdict.
President Tinubu must not be seen as making a case for Africa alone at the global event. His bold policy statement on the global stage shouldn’t have been slanted towards regional demands. It is a call for global awakening. What he simply did was prioritise empathy and compassion over political gains, especially in situations
involving human suffering, hence maintaining a level of statesmanship and decorum in global political discourse.
Besides, President Tinubu did not only focus on the crisis in Palestine. He also condemned the ongoing humanitarian crises in Gaza and other conflict zones, maintaining that efforts must be redoubled to de-escalate global tensions. Describing the human cost as “stains on our collective humanity,” he tasked world leaders with the need for coordinated global efforts to combat tensions across the globe and address the underlying causes of regional conflicts and instability.
Was Tinubu actually mum on the Nigerian situation? Certainly not! He said that while “Nigeria has continued to face the threat of violent extremism and terrorism,” his administration is tackling the menace through values and ideas. “At home, we confront the scourge of insurgency with resolve. From this long and difficult struggle with violent extremism, one truth stands clear: military tactics may win battles measured in months and years, but in wars that span generations, it is values and ideas that deliver the ultimate victory,” he added.
On the ongoing economic reforms in Nigeria, President Tinubu acknowledged the difficult reality facing his citizens but said that Nigeria’s economic reforms represent a model for resilience. He noted that his administration has taken difficult but necessary steps to restructure the economy and remove distortions, including subsidies and currency controls that benefited the few at the expense of the many. Expressing confidence in the power of the market to transform, he said, “Our task is to enable and facilitate, and to trust in the ingenuity and enterprise of the people. But the process of transition is difficult.”
The President proposed the setting up of a new, binding mechanism to manage sovereign debt, including an International Court of Justice for money. According to him, this would enable countries to break free from the “economic straitjacket of primary production of unprocessed exports” and promote local value addition in agriculture, solid minerals, and petrochemicals.
The proposal emphasises the need for urgent action to promote debt relief, not as an act of charity, but as a clear path to peace and prosperity that benefits everyone. It aims to help
emerging economies escape the constraints of debt and focus on development and growth. He stressed that the current system is not suited to address the needs of developing countries, citing Africa’s total debt of around $685.5 billion and debt service payments of $88.7 billion in 2025.
President Tinubu also called for a complete overhaul of the global financial architecture governing Africa’s mineral resources. He said African nations must be allowed to finance their own mineral sectors and assert control over African products’ global supply chains, promoting economic development and sovereignty. He also emphasised the importance of benefit-sharing from strategic minerals. Nigeria believes that countries hosting these minerals should reap the benefits, not just through revenue but also through investment, partnership, local processing, and job creation. The President also called for a dedicated initiative to close the digital divide. This initiative would bring together researchers, the private sector, governments, and communities to promote access to technology, mitigate potential negative impacts, and enable growth. Closing the digital divide is crucial for ensuring that all nations, especially developing ones, can participate in the global digital economy and benefit from technological advancements. No doubt, what has become clear about Senator Shettima’s diplomatic outings is that President Tinubu’s choice of Vice President has proven to be a strategic move, showcasing effective leadership and partnership. VP Shettima’s performance at the 80th UNGA demonstrates his capacity to stamp the President’s authority on the global stage. His ability to convey the President’s vision and policies seamlessly has been particularly notable.
It’s clear that their cordial partnership and collaborative leadership style, characterised by mutual trust, are crucial factors in Nigeria’s current progress. Their bond has proven to be solid and effective, with VP Shettima demonstrating absolute loyalty to President Tinubu and working tirelessly to support his initiatives and vision for Nigeria. They are united by a shared goal to engender a strong economy, deliver prosperity, and improve living standards for Nigerians based on the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Beyond the General Debate, the Vice President met with UN Secretary-General António Guterres at UN headquarters to personally discuss Nigeria’s quest for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council and other matters of mutual interest. He also attended a meeting of the AU Peace and Security Council at the level of Heads of State and Government held on the margins of UNGA 80.
Senator Shettima also held bilateral meetings with key leaders, including the President of Namibia, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, and the Gates Foundation’s CEO, Mark Suzman. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening bilateral ties with Namibia, calling for expanded investment in Nigeria, particularly in education and human capital development.
The Vice President also engaged with investors, highlighting Nigeria’s growth ambitions and economic reforms under the Tinubu administration. He emphasised the country’s potential for investment, citing macroeconomic stability, improved productivity, and strategic investment in infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture and education.
•Nkwocha is Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Communications (Office of the Vice President)
President BolaTinubu
Nigeria at 65: Bold Reforms, Painful Sacrifices, and the Road to Recovery
By princess Gloria Adebajo-Fraser
Nigeria marks 65 years of independence with a mix of reflection, concern, and renewed hope. From October 1, 1960, when the green-and-white flag replaced the Union Jack, Nigeria emerged as the most populous Black nation on earth — blessed with vast human and natural resources, but constrained by political instability, corruption, policy summersaults, and missed opportunities.
At 65, the country faces daunting challenges, yet the Tinubu administration has begun to take steps that no Nigerian leader previously dared — bold reforms that, though unpopular in the short run, could lay a strong foundation for sustainable growth if properly managed with citizen-focused policies.
Historical Context & Comparative Analysis
When Nigeria gained independence in 1960, its GDP per capita was higher than countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, and South Korea — nations that have since transformed into economic powerhouses. Singapore, for example, had a per capita GDP of around $428 in 1960, compared to Nigeria’s $96. Today, Singapore’s GDP per capita exceeds $70,000, while Nigeria lags at under $2,500.
What accounts for this divergence?
Policy consistency: Countries like Malaysia and South Korea implemented long-term industrial, educational, and infrastructure strategies, while Nigeria frequently shifted direction with each administration.
Governance and corruption: Weak institutions, military coups, and mismanagement of oil wealth crippled Nigeria’s development.
Dependency on oil: Unlike Asian economies that diversified early, Nigeria became dependent on crude oil, leaving the economy vulnerable to price shocks.
Nigeria at 65: The Reform Era
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has demonstrated rare political courage. The removal of fuel subsidy, floating of the naira, and tax reform plans are moves previous governments avoided for fear of political backlash. These steps, though bitter like strong medicine, are necessary for longterm economic healing.
However, reforms without safety nets are incomplete. Nations such as Indonesia (fuel subsidy reforms, 2005) and Egypt (currency reforms, 2016) combined tough economic measures with social support programs — cash transfers, subsidized transport, and targeted food assistance — to cushion their citizens. Nigeria must follow suit urgently.
What Needs to Be Done
1. Short- and Medium-Term Safety Nets
Implement cash transfer programs targeted at the poorest households.
Regulate transport and logistics costs to reduce inflationary pressures.
Consider a crawling peg exchange rate strategy rather than a full naira float, to avoid uncontrolled depreciation.
Review fuel pricing to avoid excessive cost spikes that ripple into food and transport.
2. Tax Reforms with Accountability
Expand the tax base to capture bluechip companies that evade taxes.
Ensure transparency in tax revenue utilization — free primary healthcare, free basic education, and social support schemes should be guaranteed.
Emulate countries like South Africa and Brazil, where taxpayers see direct benefits of compliance.
3. People-Centric Governance
Adopt grassroots initiatives like the Grassroot Perception Initiative (GPI) to rebuild trust and strengthen citizen engagement.
Improve communication between government and people to explain reforms and timelines for relief.
4. Learning from the Global Experience
Countries like Ghana and Pakistan have secured IMF loans but renegotiated terms to reduce the harshest conditionalities.
Nigeria must engage Bretton Woods institutions to soften loan conditions — prioritizing long-term reforms over short-term austerity.
Tinubu Administration: Commendable Boldness
Despite mounting criticism, the administration deserves recognition for breaking decades-old policy barriers. The subsidy regime had drained over N11 trillion in the last decade with little benefit to ordinary citizens. Floating the naira, though painful, curtails arbitrage that enriched a select few. However, reform is not reform until it
touches the lives of the people positively. Nigerians need assurance that the sacrifices they are making will not be in vain.
Conclusion: Nigeria’s Path Forward
At 65, Nigeria has taken bold but painful strides. The reforms introduced are necessary but incomplete without cushioning mechanisms. Floating the naira in a controlled manner, regulating fuel costs, implementing grassroots initiatives like GPI, and enforcing transparent tax reforms will ease the people’s burden. Nigeria must not just borrow lessons from Singapore, Malaysia, and South Korea but adopt and adapt them to its unique context. If Tinubu’s administration can combine courage with compassion, policy boldness with people-centered governance, and reform with relief, then Nigeria can finally move from the promise of greatness to the reality of prosperity. Despite the hardship, I remain an incurable optimist: Nigeria at 65 is still on the right path to recovery — the task now is to shield her people from the storm while steering the ship to safe waters.
•Princess G. Adebajo-Fraser MFR. Founder, The National Patriots. Perception management & Governance Consultant.
Public Analyst.
President BolaTinubu
TONY ELUMELU BAGS APPEAL OF CONSCIENCE AWARD...
L-R: Daughter of Tony Elumelu, Tiffany Ogo Elumelu; Wife, Dr.
Group Chairman, United Bank for Africa
Executive
and
At 20th Abuja International Trade Fair, NACCIMA, Dangote, Others Back Aspiration for
$1trn
Economy
Seek inclusive, sustainable growth, urge government to deploy incentives strategy to spur growth, sustainable practices
James Emejo in Abuja
The Organised Private Sec- tor (OPS) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting President Bola Tinubu-led administration’s aspiration to achieve a $1 trillion economy byThe2030.
stakeholders also renewed their call for a more inclusive and sustainable growth.
They spoke at the opening of the 20th Abuja International Trade Fair (AITF) with the theme, “Sustainability: Consumption, Incentives, and Taxation”, which was organised by the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI).
The private sector players equally advised the government to explore incentives strategies which remained powerful tools to speed-up private sector investment in sustainable practices.
In his remarks, President of ACCI, Chief Emeka Obegolu, said as the economy expands,
the government’s priority must be to ensure that growth remains sustainable, inclusive, and innovation-driven.
He described this year’s fair as celebration of a historic milestone, - 20 years of con- sistent commitment to trade, investment, innovation, and economic diplomacy in Nigeria and Africa.
Obegolu said, “Since its inception, the Abuja International Trade Fair has grown from a modest local exhibition into Nigeria’s most influential multi-sectoral trade platform, and one of Africa’s most recognised trade events.”
In his remarks at the exhibition, President, Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Jani Ibrahim, said the private sector remained united in promoting the Nigeria First agenda, adding that “we must collectively drive the vision of a $1trillion-economy.”
He said the trade fair was not just an exhibition but a
call to action.
He said the annual exhibition remained a platform for reforms, investments, and partnerships that will shape the country’s economic future.
Ibrahim said NACCIMA remained the largest trade and investment gathering on the continent, urging Nigeria to seize the moment.
While congratulating ACCI on its milestones,
he said, “With our strong entrepreneurial spirit, we are well positioned to attract new partnerships and reaffirm Nigeria as Africa’s gateway economy.“NACCIMA’s global vision is to expand Nigeria’s footprint across Africa, Europe, Asia, the Americas, and the Middle East.
“Through NACCIMA Global, we will connect
Nigerian businesses with international partners, deepen private sector reforms, and strengthen Nigeria’s competi- tiveness.”
He said, “On contemporary global issues, we must remain engaged: addressing climate change through renewable energy and green finance; driving digital transformation through fintech and e-commerce; ensuring resil-
ience in supply chains; and promoting inclusive growth by empowering women and youthAlso,entrepreneurs.”representative of Dangote Industries Limited, Fatima Wali Abdurrahman, said the path to a sustainable economic future required the government to provide a vision and enabling environment through smart policies, incentives, and taxation.
Nigeria’s Prosperity Inseparable from Future of Northern Nigeria, Says Tinubu
President Bola Tinubu yesterday declared that Nigeria’s prosperity was inseparable from the future of Northern Nigeria, stressing that the region holds the key to the country’s industrialisation drive.
Speaking at the Nigeria Investment and Industrialisa-
Senate Panel Approves N140bn 2025 Budget for North Central Development Commission
Urges prudent use of capital funds
The Senate Committee on the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) has approved the commission’s 2025 budget proposal of N140 billion, with a charge to ensure transparent and judicious use of the funds when passed by the Senate.
The approval, announced yesterday by the Committee Chairman, Senator Titus Zam, followed the budget defence session led by NCDC Managing
Director, Mr. Tsenyil Yiltsen, before lawmakers.
Senator Zam explained that the committee gave its nod after “a careful review of the provisions in the budget and the eloquent presentation by the MD and his team.”
Presenting the details, Yiltsen disclosed that the federal govern- ment allocated N140 billion to the commission for the 2025 fiscal year.
Of the sum, he said N100 billion was earmarked for capital
expenditure across the six states of the North Central zone and the Federal Capital Territory, while N40 billion will cover recurrent costs, including overheads and personnel expenses.
He explained that the capital votes would not be tied to a single project but spread across multiple sectors, with interventions in eight thematic areas: security, agriculture, mining, environmental degradation, education, health, and road construction, among others.
tion Summit (NNIIS) 2025 in Abuja, Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, said his administration had priori- tised critical industrialisation projects in the region.
The summit, themed “Unlocking Northern Nigeria’s Mining, Agricultural and Power Potentials (MAP2035),” was convened under the auspices of the Northern Elders Forum (NEF).
“The future of Nigeria’s
prosperity is inseparable from the future of Northern Nigeria, if we unlock the North’s minerals, we secure a new era of industrial competitiveness. If we unlock the North’s agriculture, we guarantee food security and global export leadership. If we unlock the North’s power, we ignite a wave of industrialisation that will employ millions of HeNigerians.” added that the North was not just a part of the country but the engine of the country, urging stakeholders to transform its potential into prosperity. Edun, in outlining the administration’s economic achievements, disclosed that Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by 4.23 per cent in the second quarter of 2025, the strongest in a decade outside the post-COVID rebound. He said industrial growth had doubled year-onyear, agriculture and services were expanding robustly, and inflation had steadily declined to 20.12 per cent in August.
US Ambassador Tours Geometric Power Plant, Says IPP World-class
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The American Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, has visited the Aba Independent Power Project developed by Geometric Power, Nigeria’s only integrated electric power company, describing the facility as Millsworld-class. made this known during his assessment of the company yesterday after he
led a team of top American embassy officials on a tour of the firm’s facilities in the Osisioma industrial layout in Aba, the Abia State economic nerve centre.
He stated: “This is worldclass, reflecting the kind of innovation and commitment needed to address Nigeria’s energy challenges”.
The facilities the American delegation inspected included
the turbines from General Electric, the world’s biggest and oldest electricity equipment manufacturing firm which is based in the United States. The ambassador and his team also inspected the stateof-the-art digital Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) facilities used in the distribution and management of electricity in all Geometric Power’s 30 feeders.
Awele Elumelu, accepting 2025 Appeal of Conscience Award on behalf of her husband, Tony Elumelu,
(UBA)
Founder, Tony Elumelu Foundation; Founder, Appeal of Conscience Foundation, Rabbi Author Schneier; and
Vice President, Appeal of Conscience Foundation, Karen Dresback, at the 60th Annual Appeal of Conscience Awards in New York on Monday
Folalumi Alaran in Abuja
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
family of Late Sommie Maduagwu at their residence in GRA Phase 4, Port Harcourt on Tuesday
Unmask Killers of Sommie Maduagwu, Family Urges FG as ARISE News Mgt Visits
Grieving parents of the late Arise News anchor and reporter, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, have called on the federal government and security agencies to act swiftly in identifying and prosecuting those behind her tragic death.
The appeal was made during a condolence visit by senior executives of Arise News to the Maduagwu family home in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Sommie, 29-year-old and lawyer-turned-broadcaster, died in the early hours of Monday, September 29, 2025, during an armed robbery at her residence in the Katampe area of Abuja.
Her untimely passing has sparked outrage and sorrow across Nigeria’s media industry, where she was widely admired for her brilliance, poise, and professionalism.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Engineer Obi Maduagwu, elder brother to Sommie’s father, described her killing as senseless and painful, urging the Nigerian government not to allow her death go unresolved.
“We appreciate the solidarity
shown by Arise News, but we also demand justice. Those who did this must be found and brought to face the full weight of the law,” he said.
The Arise News delegation was led by the Deputy Managing Director, Bayo Awosemo; Director of News, Sumner Sambo, and Director of Corporate Services, Chris Isiguzo.
They described Sommie as a rising star, who had a strong moral compass, an exceptional work ethic, and a deep commitment to truth and justice.
The team delivered the heartfelt condolences of the entire Arise Media Group to the Maduagwu family.
Sommie’s mother was visibly distraught, while her father, Engineer Ifeanyi Maduagwu, was too grief-stricken to speak.
Friends, extended family, and sympathisers gathered at the Maduagwu residence, many describing the late broadcaster as respectful, intelligent, and deeply principled, a beacon of hope for young Nigerian professionals.
With Adedeji in the Saddle, FIRS Poised to Reshape Economy, Says Spokesman
James Emejo in Abuja
The Director, Communications and Liaison Department, Fed- eral Inland
FG to Fight Erosion with €175 Million EIB Facility
The federal government has concluded plans to fight erosion in 23 states across the country with €175 million facility from European Investment Bank (EIB).
Speaking at the launch of the European Investment Bank (EIB) assisted Nigeria’s Climate Adaptation-Erosion and Watershed Project (NEWMAPEIB) on Tuesday in Abuja, the Minister of Environment and Chairman, Steering Committee of the Project, Alhaji Balarabe
Lawal, said the EIB approved facility of €175 million aimed at building upon and deepening the achievements recorded under NEWMAP-IDA, Lawal said: “It is with great honour and privilege that I welcome you all to the launch of the European Investment Bank (EIB) Assisted Nigeria Climate Adaptation – Erosion and Watershed Project (NEWMAP-EIB).
I am delighted to inform you that the Federal Government of Nigeria has fulfilled all the outlined conditions precedent for the implementation of this
project.
“Consequently, the European Investment Bank (EIB) Assisted Nigeria Climate Adaptation – Erosion and Watershed Project (NEWMAP-EIB) is now effecting disbursement.”
He said: “In 2010, the federal government, with support from the World Bank, launched the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP-IDA) to address soil degradation, food insecurity, and land remediation under the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan.
(FIRS), Dr. Abdullahi Ismaila Ahmad, yesterday declared that with a clear vision and strategic roadmap, the service remained determined to further play pivotal roles in shaping the country’s economic future under the leadership of Dr. Zacch Adedeji. He said since his as-
sumption of office, the FIRS chairman, had “practically demonstrated a capacity to take on the tax and fiscal space headlong with much equanimity expected of the capricorn that he is”.
Ahmad’s remarks commemorate Adedeji’s two-year stewardship at the Revenue House.
He noted that two years down the line, the FIRS chairman had recorded significant strides in transforming the nation’s tax system, surpass- ing revenue targets as well as introducing a raft of tax reforms, including modernised tax administration, and positioning the service as a customer-centric organisation.
Report: Burning of Fossil Fuel Poses Threat to 1.6bn People Globally
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Fossil fuel burning is not just damaging the world’s climate; it is also threatening the health of at least 1.6 billion people through the toxic pollutants it produces, data from a new interactive map from Climate Trace, a coalition of academics and analysts that tracks pollution and greenhouse gases,
has shown.
Carbon dioxide, the main greenhouse gas from fossil fuel burning, does not directly damage health, but leads to global heating. However, coal and oil burning for power generation, and the burning of fossil fuels in industrial facilities, pollute the air with particulate mat- ter called PM2.5, which has serious health impacts when
breathed in.
According to the UK Guard- ian, PM2.5 and other toxins are being poured into the air near the homes of about 1.6 billion people. Of these, about 900 million are in the path of “super-emitting” industrial facilities – including power plants, refineries, ports and mines – that deliver outsize doses of toxic air.
Revenue Service
ArisE tEAm pAys condolEncE visit to somtochukwu fAmily...
L-R: Director of Corporate Services, Christopher Isiguzo, Director of News Sumner Sambo, Deputy Managing Director, Mr. Bayo Awosemo, Sommie’s Uncle, Obi Maduagwu and Ifeanyi Maduagwu, father of the late Arise News Anchor, Reporter and Producer, Somtochukwu, when Arise News Management led visited the
michael olugbode in Abuja
Mrs Ann Maduagwu, Mother of late Somtochukwu Maduagwu
LAUNCH OF IOS 37003:2025 FRAUD CONTROL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM...
L-R: Head, Justice and Home Affairs, British High Commission, Abuja, Mrs. Sorrel Evans; Lead Programme Manager, Risk BMC and Security, United Kingdom, Mr. David Adamson; Director, Corporate Affairs, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Mrs. Talatu Ethan; Deputy Director, Reform, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Agu Jachinma; and Chairman, SON Government Council, Prof. Oserheimen Osunbor, during the official launching of IOS 37003:2025 Fraud Control
IsDB Directors Approve US$1.27bn to Spur Sustainable Devt, Build Resilient Economies in Nigeria, Member Countries
Members of Board of Executive Directors of Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) have approved a substantial number of projects amounting to about US$1.27 bil- lion across 12 member countries in Asia, Africa and MENA.
At their 362nd meeting on September 29, chaired by IsDB President, H.E. Dr. Muhammad Al Jasser, the board members
also approved a multi-country programme targeting sustainable agriculture and food security, education, renewable energy, health, ICT, transport, water resources, and governance reforms.
According to the approvals, Pakistan’s transport sector is to be reinforced with a US$475 million financing for the M-6 motorway, ensuring efficient connectivity across a critical corridor.
In Uzbekistan, a US$192 million financing from IsDB will upgrade the 4R40 road to enhance connectivity, catalyse investment, and unlock the tourism potential of the Jizzakh region.
The IsDB president said Bangladesh would receive US$143.28 million of funding for the Sonagazi 220 MW Solar Power and Livelihoods Improvement Project, which will expand
renewable generation capacity and stimulate economic activity in surrounding communities.
Türkiye will also benefit from EUR140 million in IsDB development financing for the Antalya–Alanya motorway, easing congestion, improving safety, and lowering emissions.
The IsDB leader stated that in Nigeria, the bank will provide US$50 million to strengthen agricultural resilience in Yobe
Ex-VCs, Others Laud Tinubu, Alausa on NERD’s Digitisation Initiative
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Leading educationists, including former vice chancellors, have praised the federal government on its giant strides with the digitisation programme at the Nigeria Education Repository and Databank (NERD).
This is coming as the October 6 deadline for the enforcement of the regulations for the Nigeria NERD programme, which have been described as transformational, approaches.
Former Vice Chancellor of the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa
University (ATBU), Bauchi, Prof Abubakar Sambo, in a chat with newsmen, on the sidelines of a NERD stakeholders meeting in Abuja, commended the current administration for the significant steps to eliminate the recurring evil of education rackets, fake certificates, and the festering for-profit honour scams.
Sambo, who once served as the Director General of the Energy Commission, applauded the incumbent Education Minister, Dr. Tunji Alausa, for his decisiveness
in implementing the NERD scheme, especially the thesis digitisation and anti-certificate racketeering components of the programme, as well as the National Publication Indexing System for researchers.
“There is no responsible country in the world that will allow the integrity of its educational system to be crippled by doubts and refuse to provide the tools to guide the public and the industry. I am glad that the President appreciates the enormity of the problem. There are just too
Nigeria, EU Hold Inaugural Trade, Investment Dialogue
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
Senior Nigerian and European Union (EU) government officials today met in Abuja to assess the vibrant economic partnership between the two parties and chart a way forward.
The inaugural Nigeria-EU Senior Officials Trade and investment Dialogue (TID) was anchored by the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of
Industry, Trade and Investment (FMITI), Ambassador Nura Abba Rimi, and Director of the European Directorate-GeneralCommission’s for Trade and Economic Security (DG TRADE), Ms. Dora Correia, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investments, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, and the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot,, welcomed the launch of the Dialogue, which they said underscored the
growing importance attached to trade and investment in the EU-Nigeria partnership.
The senior officials’ meeting marks an important step in strengthening the trade and investment partnership between the EU and Nigeria, and provided opportunity for the officials to exchange views on areas of mutual interest; address potential challenges and explore opportunities for further collaboration.
many hardworking Nigerians over the ages who deservedly earned their honours.
“At least, the nation must put systems in place to protect the sanctity of academic hon- ours from being corrupted by a few bad eggs. Even liberal societies like the United States of America will ensure there are clear ways to separate proper educational experience from the activities of degree mills.
State, supporting market-oriented and climate-resilient value chains that raise rural incomes.
Uganda is to receive US$36.80 million to establish regional oncology centres to reduce cancer-related mortality and extend quality healthcare services, complemented by EUR73.33 million for a second phase of the Local Economic Growth Support initiative to transform rural livelihoods and strengthen institutions.
In Senegal, the approved allocation of EUR36.51 million from IsDB will fund a nationally owned school meals programme designed to improve student nutrition, strengthen institutional capacity, and connect local small- holders to reliable markets.
IsDB stated that Republic of Guinea would see the allocation of EUR32 million to finance the completion of the Boké–Québo road to stimulate economic activities in key agricultural zones.
In Tunisia, IsDB will avail a EUR30 million financing to strengthen the country’s water supply systems as additional financing for dams and water transfer infrastructure, securing
drinking and irrigation water for multiple regions.
Sierra Leone will see the allocation of US$30.55 million that will boost the cassava value chain, improving productivity, processing, and value addition to create new opportunities for women, youth, and persons with disabilities.
IsDB added that the Comoros would advance its e-government transformation with EUR6.30 million to build resilient ICT infrastructure, enhance service delivery, and equip citizens with digital skills.
Mauritania will advance transparency and institutional reform with US$1.77 million for the second phase of its public procurement capacity-building project.
Beyond individual countries, IsDB stated that it had endorsed US$7 million for the Tadamon 2.0, a community empowerment programme that aims to reach vulnerable populations across member countries with digital literacy, healthcare, and Islamic finance while strengthening the capacity of civil society organisations.
Ex-British Council Chief Says Reports of Genocide
A former Director of the British Council, Abuja, David Roberts, yesterday posited that insinuations of genocide against Christians in Nigeria, were untrue.
“I lived in Nigeria as a British diplomat and toured the length and breadth of the country. It is ridiculous for anyone even to suggest that half a million people were killed as part of a genocide against Christians in Nigeria by Muslims last year alone.
“Yes, there are security chal- lenges in Nigeria, but those
challenges have plagued the country from the pre-colonial to the colonial and now the post-colonial eras,” he stated.
According to him, more Muslims are killed by the terrorists, explaining that recently, insecurity in Nigeria has been exacerbated by the crisis in the Sahel, with the fall of democratic governments in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger.
“And this is not some Christian genocide. As a matter of fact, more Muslims are killed in the face of these attacks in Nigeria than Christians—a
fact noted by the Institute for Economics and Peace in their annual Global Terrorism Index.
“In recent times, insecurity in Nigeria has been exacerbated by the crisis in the Sahel, with the fall of democratic govern- ments in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger,” he added.
As these countries typically share a border with the North-west and North-east of Nigeria, which are the Islamic heartlands, it means that Muslims have borne the brunt of the situation more than Christians, Roberts said.
Management System in Abuja, yesterday
PHOTO: ENOCK REUBEN
Sunday Okobi
EXCLUSIVE NETWORKING EVENT ON FUNDING AND POWERING NIGERIA AGRIC SMES...
L-R: Divisional Head, Retail and SME, Wema Bank, Mrs. Ayodele Olojede; State Manager, MSME Directorate, Bank of Industry, Lagos, Sandra Yoroh; CEO, Gain Business Incubator Ltd, Mr. Opeyemi Adeyanju; Head, Alumni Relations and Support Services, Enterprise Development Center, Dr. Nnenna Ugwu; Executive Director, Finance and Corporate Services, Development Bank of Nigeria, Mrs. Ijeoma Ozulumba; and Lead, Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning, Enterprise Development Center, Dr. Stanley Ibeku, during the 2025 Exclusive Networking Event to Funding the Future and Powering Nigeria Agric SMEs held in Lagos… recently
Dangote, PENGASSAN Reach Truce, Strike to Be Called Off, Sacked Workers to be Recalled
MAN, NECA condemn unions’ attack on refinery National grid loses significant supply as strike constrains gas supply Umahi urges oil workers to call off action, prioritise national interest
Emmanuel Addeh, Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja and Dike Onwuamaeze, Peter Uzoho in Lagos
The Dangote Refinery and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) early Wednesday morning reached a truce after sev- eral hours of gruelling negotiations overseen by federal authorities.
The development came after both parties agreed that the strike action embarked upon by the union will be called off immediately, while the sacked employees by the management of the $20 billion oil facility will be reinstated. However, they will be redeployed to other companies within the Dangote Group.Those at the conciliation meeting were: The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu; Minister of Labour and Employment, Maigari Dingyadi; Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun; Minister of Budget and Economic Plan- ning, Abubakar Bagudu and the
Minister of State for Labour and Employment.
Others were the Director General, Department of State Services (DSS), Oluwatosin Ajayi; DG National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Mo- hammed Mohammed and the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, VAlso present or represented were: The Chief Executives of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) as well as representatives of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC).
A communiqué released at the end of the deliberations signed by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dingyadi, obtained by THISDAY, said that the meeting was sequel to the notice to stop gas supply to Dangote Petroleum Refinery and withdrawal of services byAtPENGASSAN. the two-day talks were also the top management of the Dangote
Group and the President and Sec- retary General of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Festus Osifo and Nuhu Toro, respectively and other top leadership of PENGASSAN.
“Whereas the leadership of PEN- GASSAN said that the directives given to stop the supply of gas to Dangote Petroleum and withdrawal of services was in response to the termination of appointment of over
800 members of PENGASSAN by the management of the Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical Limited, the management of Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical on the other hand, explained the reason for disengagement of the workers was as a result of the ongoing reorganisation in the company,” the communiqué stated. It indicated that after lengthy
discussions, the parties to the dispute agreed on several resolu- tions, going forward, which are expected to be adhered to strictly.
“After a lengthy discussion, the matter was resolved as follows: The Honourable Minister of Labour informed the meeting that unionisation is a right of workers in accordance with the laws of Nigeria and that this right
should be respected.
“After examining the procedure used in the disengagement of work- ers, the meeting agreed that the management of Dangote Group shall immediately start the process of taking the disengaged staff to other companies within the Dangote Group, with no loss of pay.
Continues online
2027: Peter Obi’s Record of Prudence Stands Him Out Ahead Other Presidential Aspirants, Says Sam Amadi
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
Renowned legal luminary and political analyst, Dr. Sam Amadi, has said that the 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi’s record of prudence and fiscal discipline stands out among other aspirants ahead of 2027.
Speaking in an interview with Arise Television News,
House C’ttee Seeks Enhanced Safety in
Power Sector, Lauds NDPHC for Upholding Standards
Addeh
The House of Representatives Committee on Safety Standards and Regulations has commended the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) for upholding high safety standards at the Calabar Power Plant in Odukpani, Cross River State.
The Committee gave the commendation after an on-the-spot assessment of the 565MW facility, noting significant improvements
since its last visit in 2018, a statement by the Head, Corporate Communica- tions & External Relations, NDPHC, Emmanuel Ojor, said.
Chairman of the Committee, Hon. David Zacharias, said the inspection was aimed at ensuring that Nigerians work in safe environments and enjoy long, healthy lives and praised the staff for maintaining the plant, stressing that the health and safety of workers in the power sector are
critical to both government and the economy.
“We, the Safety Standards and Regulations Committee members, always appreciate when we step into any organisation and see that they have done very well. My impression here is positive, and you also heard the same from my honourable colleagues,” Zacharias said.
He, however, noted that the visit was not only to commend but also to highlight areas requiring improvement.
Dr. Amadi explained that the challenge of governance in the country today, regarding the management of public funds, gives Obi an advantage because of his record of transparency in handling public funds.
He also acknowledged that Obi has a strong support base among Nigerian youths and those desirous of disrupting the current unwanted system.
Dr. Amadi also looked into the entry of former President Goodluck Jonathan into the race and noted that he and Obi enjoy the advantage of zoning, which is in favour of
the South.
He noted: “Jonathan will have the advantage of his current international reputation, which goes with his position as a former president, as well as the definitive one-term, which he has above all other aspirants.
“Former President Goodluck Jonathan has political advantages even though Peter Obi has declared to do one term, but he has more clarity.”
Amadi noted that Jonathan carries the appeal of being a statesman with global recognition and the certainty of a single four-year tenure, which
gives him leverage in political negotiations, particularly with Northern elites.
“He has the clarity as to tenure. No question around four years, so he’s going to bank on that. So, he comes with the idea that if it’s Jonathan, there’s no question around whether that would be four years or not four years,” he added.
Amadi also admonished the opposition Coalition, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to consider a winnable candidate at the main election, not at the primary.
Beneficial Partnerships Better than Handouts, Otti Tells US Ambassador
Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has stated that his government was disposed to enter into economically beneficial partnerships than stretching hand to receive aids and grants from developed nations.
He said that more value would be added to Abia by
entering into partnerships that would be of mutual benefit to the parties involved.
According to a press release from his office, Otti expressed his preference for partnerships when he received the Ambassador of the United States of America(U.S.A) to Nigeria, His Excellency, Ambassador Richard Mills, in his office.
“In terms of partnership, we
don’t believe in grants and aid, rather we seek partnership, believing that there is a lot of value that we can add working together,” he told Mills, who was on two-day visit to Abia.
“I think there are a lot of areas where you can be of help to us, and we can also be of help to America,” Otti added, and enthused that Abia “is probably the SME capital of Nigeria”.
Emmanuel
in Abuja
53RD MAN ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING PRESS CONFERENCE...
L-R: Assistant Director, Corporate Services Division, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Dr. Segun Alabi; President, MAN, Otunba Francis Meshioye; and Director General, MAN, Segun Ajayi-Kadir at the 53rd Manufacturers Association of Nigeria Annual General Meeting Press Conference, held in Lagos, yesterday
Bloomberg: Nigeria, South Africa to Exit Dirty-Money List in October
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Nigeria and South Africa are set to exit the Financial Action Task Force’s “gray list” as soon as next month, marking a change in fortune for two of the continent’s biggest economies, Bloomberg reported yesterday.Assessors from the FATF conducted on-site visits and noted significant progress in the
action plans for South Africa, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, and Mozambique, according to people familiar with the matter. The removal from the list would be “a culmination of the remarkable work the government is doing” and would make the countries “more attractive to investors,” said government spokesmen for Nigeria and officials for other countries.
The two nations were put under heightened scrutiny by the Financial Action Task Force in February 2023 for shortcomings in tackling illicit financial flows. Assessors from the Paris-based FATF conducted on-site visits in recent weeks and subsequent feedback on the action plans for those countries — as well as for Burkina Faso and Mozambique — noted significant progress.
All four countries are expected to come off the list on October 24, the final day of an FATF plenary in the French capital, sources told Bloomberg. No final decisions have been made. Listings are determined based on a consensus among the group’s membership, which includes the US, UK, European Commission, China, Japan and India.
As part of efforts to identify weaknesses in the Nigerian electoral system, the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) has recommended critical issues that should be addressed in the ongoing constitution amendment.
The Centre which launched a compendium of review reports of Electoral Reform Panels and Observers since 2010 in Abuja, yesterday, said that one of the gaps needed to be filled by the
Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is electoral reform advocacy and public education.
It listed 27 areas of concern and the required legislations that are needed to significantly improve on Nigeria’s electoral process.Among the critical and priority issues identified by PLAC are the appointment members of the National and Resident Electoral Commissioners, unbundling of INEC, establishment of Political Parties
Registration and Regulatory Commission, establishment of Electoral Offences Commission, reorganisation and integration of the existing State Independent Electoral Commission into the structure of INEC, Reserved Seat for women in legislative chambers.
Other key issues include; conduct of elections on the same day, independent candidature, use of technology in voting process and procedure, Diaspora voting and swearing-in of winners after adjudication of electoral disputes.
Glo Targets Thousands of Widows, the Aged in Warri Food Drive
Thousands of women from various local government areas and communities around Warri, Delta State, on Saturday converged on Urhobo College, Warri, to receive packs of food items from Glo Foundation in its “Giving Back Together” initiative. The event was in continuation of the special intervention programme by Globacom to
support the most vulnerable segment of society with essential food items to cushion the effects of the economic situation.
At the Saturday programme, women, including the aged and widows from far and near communities such as Warri North, Warri South, Aladja, Ughelli South, Udu, and Uvwie local government areas, gathered immediately after the
state’s monthly environmental sanitation exercise to benefit from the scheme.
Speaking at the event, Globa- com’s head of Corporate Social Responsibility, Mrs. Jumobi Mofe-Damijo, stated that having successfully held similar food donation programmes in some other states, it was the turn of women in Delta to also be part of the programme.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Director of PLAC, Mr. Clement Nwankwo, said there is no doubt that members of the civil society organizations have over the years supported electoral reforms in the country. As we head towards 2027 General election, it is clear that there are challenges that needs to be addressed.
exiting the list “would certainly be good for sentiment,” said Lauren van Biljon, senior portfolio manager at Allspring Global Investments UK Ltd.
“It would be confirmation that the reforms and measures put in place in the wake of the gray listing are both significant and sticky,” she said. The direct market impact may be fairly modest though a short-term lift in asset prices is possible, Van Biljon said.
The watchdog’s recommen- dations are closely tracked by global investors who’re wary of conducting business in places found to be deficient in antimoney laundering regulations. Jurisdictions added to the list require closer monitoring, and the designation may cast seri- ous doubt over the integrity of their financial systems.
A 2021 report by the Inter- national Monetary Fund (IMF) found gray-listed countries experienced “a large and statistically significant reduction in capital inflows.”
South Africa’s National Treasury said it would com- ment after the FATF makes its
decision public next month. It also referred Bloomberg to a statement issued in July after the FATF’s on-site visit in which it said South Africa had substantially completed all 22 action items required to be removed from the list.
“We are excited” about the ramifications of Nigeria being removed from the list, said a government spokesman, Temitope Ajayi. It would be “a culmination of the remarkable work the government is doing in fulfilling our global obligations and making Nigeria more attractive to investors,” Ajayi said.
Mozambique has completed the 26 actions needed to be delisted, said Luís Abel Cezerilo, national coordinator for the country’s removal from the gray list.
“We expect a good result, but we don’t know — we need to wait,” he said by phone on Monday. The country’s removal from the list would come at a crucial time, just as TotalEner- gies SE is anticipated to resume its $20 billion natural gas export project, Cezerilo said.
Health Workers Hail Uba Sani for Implementing Consolidated Salary Structure
By John Shiklam in Kaduna
The Kaduna State Council of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has lauded Governor Uba Sani for implementing the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) and the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), describing the move as a milestone in labour relations and healthcare reform in the state.
In a letter a letter to the
governor, jointly signed by the State Chairman of NANNM, Comrade Ishaku Yakubu, and the State Secretary, Comrade Christiana Bawa, the association expressed deep appreciation for what it described as a “singular act of magnanimity and fairness” by the governor.
According to the as- sociation, the decision has “rekindled the hope of many dedicated nurses” and reaffirmed the administration’s alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President
“The governor has not only demonstrated a genuine commitment to the welfare of nurses and health workers but has also reaffirmed his passion for strengthening healthcare delivery in our dear state,” the letter read in part.
The union noted the imple- mentation of CONHESS and CONMESS, despite the state’s competing fiscal obligations, underscores Governor Sani’s prioritisation of human capital and public sector productivity.
PHOTO: SUNDAY ADIGUN
Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
REEA-A 2025 INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE...
L-R: Chief Technical Assistant on Climate Change and Green Economy to the Hon. Minister of Women Affairs, Prince Xavier Eyanba; Executive Director, Risk Management, Access Bank PLC, Gregory Ovie Jobome; President, Governing Council, Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Associations (Alliance), Prof. Chidi Magnus Onuoha; and Managing Director, Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency, Engr. Aliyu Tukur Tahir, at the REEA-A 2025 International Conference, held at Radisson Blu Anchorage Hotel, Lagos. recently
Obi Condemns Unending Killings in Kwara
Oke-Ode residents leave in exodus over attacks Bandits kidnap NSIEC commissioner, former NSUBEB Chair, 30 others in Niger Report: Small arms proliferation, armed non-state actors, others may disrupt Anambra poll
people of Kwara State. I reassure you that you are not alone.”
Presidential hopeful, Peter Obi, yesterday, expressed sorrow over the recent attacks in Oke-Ode, Kwara State, where armed bandits had killed many people, including vigilantes and the Baale of Ogbayo.
In a statement on X, Obi described the development as a “mindless act of violence” that had thrown the country into mourning.
He emphasised the urgent need for a national security emergency, stating that no Nigerian should live in fear in their own home.
He condemned the normalisation of tragedy and offered his condolences to the governor and people of Kwara State, as well as the grieving families.
Obi stated, “We cannot continue to normalise tragedy. My heart goes out to the governor and the
Obi prayed for the souls of the departed to rest in perfect peace and for their families to find strength and comfort in their time of grief.
No fewer than 12 persons, including the Baale of Ogbayo, were killed during Sunday morning’s gunmen attack on Oke-Ode community, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State.
A statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun EjireAdeyemi, said operatives of the command and personnel of the National Forest Security Service swiftly responded to distress calls, but 12 vigilante members were already found dead.
The statement added that four injured victims were taken to the hospital for treatment, while the bodies of the deceased were evacuated.
“The news of her death, following the armed robbery incident in Abuja on Monday, 29 September 2025, came to us with great shock and sadness.
“We know that no words can truly ease the pain you, your team, and Somtochukwu’s loved ones are enduring.
“Yet we hope you find some comfort in the knowledge that our thoughts and prayers are with you as you go through this trying time.”
League of Anambra Journalists: She was a Passionate Voice for Truth
League of Anambra Journalists in Abuja (LAJA) expressed deep sorrow and grief over the untimely death of Maduagwu.
LAJA said it received with deep shock and immense grief the devastating news of her untimely death.
A statement signed by Interim President of LAJA, Ikenna Okonkwo, and Interim Secretary, Princess-Ekwi Ajide, described
Residents of the ancient town of Oke-Ode started to leave the community en masse due to bandits’ attacks.
A video clip being circulated in Ilorin, the state capital, showed the mass movement of residents of Oke-Ode community out of the town to safer places in the state.
It was gathered that the residents were being conveyed in series of taxi cabs and loaded with their bags and baggage out of the community for fear of further attacks on the town.
Some of the residents, who spoke in local language, expressed concerns over the mass killing of the people in Oke-Ode community.
They said, “We are so worried that just a day the security agencies allegedly withdrew the guns from the local vigilantes, the suspected bandits invaded our town and killed many people.
“We are in serious tension and pains and no one can sleep
late Somtochukwu “as not only a shining light in the newsroom but also a passionate voice for truth, justice, and accountability”.
It said, “Her tragic passing is not just a personal loss to her family, friends, and colleagues, but a huge blow to the Nigerian media fraternity and the nation at large.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, colleagues at Arise News Television, friends, and all who had the privilege of working with her.”
LAJA said words alone could not capture the pain and sorrow of losing such a vibrant, young professional in so cruel and senseless a manner.
It condemned the killing as a heinous act and called on the Nigerian government and security agencies to leave no stone unturned in fishing out the perpetrators of the wickedness and bringing them swiftly to justice.
“Anything less would be an injustice to the memory of Somtochukwu and an affront to the ideals of justice and
with two eyes closed in Oke-Ode community and before they kill all of us again, it is better to move out of the town for a while to safer places in the state.
“We are calling on the state governor, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to rise up to our security as the people of Oke-Ode community need urgent action so as to return peace to our town.”
Bandits Kidnap NSIEC
Commissioner, Former NSUBEB Chair, 30 Others in Niger
A commissioner in the Niger State Independent Electoral Commission (NSIEC) (name withheld) and a former Chairman of Niger State Universal Basic Education Board (name withheld) were among the over 30 people abducted by bandits in the state on Monday evening.
The other abductees were traveling in two Sharon com-
human dignity,” it added.
Manifold Media: We are Thankful to Have Known Her Warmth and Talent
Manifold Media, publishers of the Pan-African newspaper, African Angle, expressed sadness over the death of Somtochukwu Maduagwu.
In a statement yesterday, signed by its Executive Director, Seun Akioye, the management of Manifold Media condemned the hospital’s alleged refusal to treat Somtochukwu until a police report was produced.
The organisation described the hospital’s conduct as “ungodly,” insisting that its negligence was as culpable as the criminals who attacked her. “We noted that while all humans would die, death unwholly, unwelcome, untimely, preventable, is totally unacceptable,” the statement read.
Manifold Media also decried the worsening insecurity in Abuja, stressing
mercial vehicles, when the gunmen kidnapped them.
The incident occurred around the Ibbi National Park, along the Zugurma-Ibbi road, while the victims were traveling to New Bussa, headquarters of Borgu Local Government Area.
The gunmen, allegedly numbering over 100, blocked the highway and shot into the air to scare away people before herding their victims into the forest. They were said to have first demobilised the policemen stationed at the entrance to the national park.
According to reports, some farmers who later came out from hiding as a result of the sporadic shooting by the gunmen, saw the vehicles in which the victims were traveling abandoned on the roadside and raised the alarm.
Niger State Police Com- mand Public Relations Officer, Superintendent of Police Wasiu
that despite heavy security presence in the capital, the system failed both to prevent the crime and to save her life.
According to the statement, Somtochukwu, a lawyer by training but a passionate journalist by profession, sustained fatal injuries during the robbery.
“We can only recall and be thankful for the opportunity to know her, to feel her warmth and talent,” the statement added.
Extending its sympathy, Manifold Media condoled with her family, loved ones, and the management of Arise TV, alongside the wider journalism community in Nigeria.
The Manifold Media group further emphasised the loss to journalism, noting that her voice and presence left a lasting impression on colleagues and audiences alike.
NUJ: She Brought Intellect, Warmth and Integrity to Her Work
Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ)
Abiodun, confirmed the story when contacted.
Abiodun said the bandits had first attacked and destroyed two police patrol vehicles. He did not say if any policeman was injured by the gunmen.
Abiodun said men of the police tactical teams, in conjunction with other security agencies and vigilante members, were already trailing the kidnappers with a view to rescuing the victims and possibly arresting the gunmen.
Report: Small Arms Proliferation, Non-State Actors, Others May Disrupt Anambra Poll
A report by a civil society organisation, CLEEN Foundation, revealed that the proliferation of small arms and light weapons could mar the November governorship election in Anambra State if urgent steps were not taken to mitigate the challenges.
said it received with deep shock and sorrow the tragic death of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, fondly known as Sommie, a news anchor, reporter, and producer with ARISE News Channel, who was killed during an armed robbery attack at her residence.
NUJ stated, “At only 29 years of age, Sommie was a brilliant, passionate, and dedicated professional who brought intellect, warmth, and integrity to her work. She was also a lawyer, a supportive colleague, and a source of inspiration to many.
“Her passing is not just a painful loss to her family and colleagues at ARISE News, but to the entire journalism profession and our nation at large.
“The NUJ condemns this heinous act and calls on the Nigeria Police and other security agencies to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation to ensure that the perpetrators are swiftly apprehended and brought to book.”
Chuks Okocha, Linus Aleke in Abuja and Hammed Shittu in Ilorin
Courtesy Visit by NNPC
CorPorate CommuNiCatioNs team...
L-R: Head, Media and External Communications, NNPC Ltd, Mr.
Obasanjo: Nigeria is Easy to Govern, Needs Honest Leaders with Sense of Purpose Sultan
emphasises place of education, knowledge
onuminya innocent in Sokoto
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, yesterday, said Nigeria was an easy country to govern, despite its diversity.
But Obasanjo said the country needed honest leaders with a sense of Obasanjopurpose. made the assertion
the government’s efforts, with sovereign credit rating agencies having upgraded their outlook for Nigeria, recognising its improved economic fundamentals.
The stock market, the President said, is experiencing an unprecedented boom, rising from an all-share index of 55,000 points in May 2003 to 142,000 points as of September 26, 2025, while at its last Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting, the Central Bank slashed interest rates for the first time in five years, expressing confidence in the country’s macroeconomic stability.
As Nigerians reflect on the significance of the day and their journey of nationhood since October 1, 1960, Tinubu paid tributes to Nigeria’s founding fathers, including: Herbert Macaulay, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Sir Ahmadu Bello, Margaret Ekpo, Anthony Enahoro, Ladoke Akintola, Michael Okpara, Aminu Kano, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, and other nationalists—who believed it was Nigeria’s manifest destiny to lead the entire black race as the largest black nation on earth.
While Nigeria may not have achieved all the lofty dreams of its forebearers, the President assured that it has not strayed too far from them, stressing that the
in Sokoto at the inauguration of Saint Bakhita Information, Communication, Technologies (ICTs) centre. He stressed the importance of seeking knowledge in diversity for the overall development of theThecountry.former president explained that learning and acquiring ICT
nation has made tremendous progress in economic growth, social cohesion, and physical development.
“Our country has experienced both the good and the bad times in its 65 years of nationhood, as is normal for every nation and its people,” he stated.
On security, the Nigerian leader stated that his administration was working diligently to enhance national security, ensuring the economy experiences improved growth and performance.
He said that the officers and men of the nation’s Armed Forces and other security agencies were working tirelessly and making significant sacrifices to keep Nigeria safe.
“They are winning the war against terrorism, banditry and other violent crimes. We see their victories in their blood and sweat to stamp out Boko Haram Terror in North-East, IPOB/ESN terror in South East and banditry and kidnapping.
“We must continue to celebrate their gallantry and salute their courage on behalf of a grateful nation. Peace has returned to hundreds of our liberated communities in North-west and North-east, and thousands of our people have returned safely to their homes,” he stated.
Speaking to young people,
knowledge and skills would empower and create jobs for Nigerian youths.
With the emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Obasanjo stated that the world was going digital, and everyone should embrace the trend.
He stated that if all Nigerians were educated, there would
he described them as the future and the greatest assets of the country, urging them to continue to dream big, innovate, and conquer more territories in their various fields of science, technology, sports, and the art and creative sector.
He highlighted the impact of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), positing that approximately 510,000 students across 36 states and the FCT have benefited from this initiative, covering 228 higher institutions.
“As of September 10, the total loan disbursed was N99.5 billion, while the upkeep al- lowance stood at N44.7 billion.
Credicorp, another initiative of our administration, has granted 153,000 Nigerians N30 billion affordable loans for vehicles, solar energy, home upgrades, digital devices, and more.
“YouthCred, which I promised last June, is a reality, with tens of thousands of NYSC members now active beneficiaries of consumer credit for resettlement,” he disclosed, acknowledging that the reforms have come with some pains.
“Fellow Nigerians, I have always candidly acknowledged that these reforms have come with some temporary pains. The biting effects of inflation and the rising cost of living remain a significant concern to our government.
be many good servants in the country, as not everyone could be a leader at the same time.
He also urged Nigerians not to give up on education, saying it is the only key to success and empowerment.
Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar 111, emphasised the
“However, the alternative of allowing our country to descend into economic chaos or bankruptcy was not an option. Our macro-economic progress has proven that our sacrifices have not been in vain. Together, we are laying a new foundation cast in concrete, not on“Thequicksand. accurate measure of our success will not be limited to economic statistics alone, but rather in the food on our families’ tables, the quality of education our children receive, the electricity in our homes, and the security in our communities. Let me assure you of our determinationadministration’s to ensure that the resources we have saved and the stability we have built are channelled into these critical areas.
“Today, the governors at the state level, and the local govern- ment autonomy are yielding more developments. Therefore, on this 65th Anniversary of Our Independence, my message is hope and a call to action.
“The federal government will continue to do its part to fix the plumbing in our economy. Now, we must all turn on the taps of productivity, innovation, and enterprise, just like the Ministry of Interior has done with our travel passports, by quickening the processing,” he added.
importance of seeking knowledge, saying those who refuse to seek knowledge would not develop.
The sultan stated that illiteracy did not know religion or tribe, stressing that people should do everything possible to equip their children with educational knowledge.
He condemned recent reports of genocide against Christians in northern Nigeria, saying those responsible are terrorists who have killed both Christians and Muslims.
The sultan urged Nigerians to unite against evil and reject false reports that sought to cause acrimony.
In his remarks, the governor of Sokoto State, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu, thanked Bishop Hassan Matthew Kukah for complementing his government’s efforts in providing digital education for the people.
Aliyu stated that his admin-
istration placed high premium on digital education and would support any initiative that sought to improve the lives of the citizenry.
Kukah, in his address, said he conceived the idea of the ICT centre because the world was heading towards digital education with the emergence of artificial intelligence.
He disclosed that the centre had 250 laptops and 50 tablets for those who would like to acquire skills and knowledge.
Kukah emphasised the importance of digital education in Nigeria, stressing that acquiring digital skills and knowledge are crucial for the development of Nigerian youths.
The bishop added that the initiative was not just about providing physical infrastructure, but also about rebuilding com- munity cohesion and resilience.
The spokesman of African Democratic Congress (ADC), Bolaji Abdullahi, has criticised the federal government’s decision to cancel the 65th independence anniversary parade, describing it as another sign of disconnect between the presidency and the Nigerian people.
The federal government had Monday announced the cancellation of the parade scheduled for October 1 in Abuja. It, however, said other anniversary activities would go ahead as planned.
But in an interview yesterday, Abdullahi faulted the move. He said the parade was a symbolic moment that should not be
abandoned.
The ADC spokesman stated, “This independence celebration is a remarkable milestone. It is an opportunity for Nigeria to project itself to the world and inspire the people, to renew their confidence in the country and their government. But what did the government do yet again?
“I am sure the reason the presidency cancelled the parade is because the president is not in Abuja. The last time I checked, he was in Lagos, unless he returned without the public knowing.
“This independence time, everybody was looking forward to it. So, why the sudden cancellation? What happened?
Chinedu Achusi; Chief Corporate Communications Officer, NNPC Ltd, Mr. Andrew Odeh; Sunday Editor, THISDAY, Mr. Davidson Iriekpen; Deputy Sunday Editor, Festus Akanbi; Deputy Saturday Editor, Ahamefula Ogbu and Business Adviser to the CCCO, NNPC Ltd, Dr. Emeka Agbayi, during a courtesy visit to THISDAY office by the Chief Corporate Communications officer, NNPC Ltd and his team on a familiarisation tour to media houses in Lagos.... yesterday
PHOTO: ABIODuN AjALA
T
PresentatiOn Of Letter Of nOminatiOn...
L-R. Senator representing Edo South, Senator Neda Imasuen and CEO Megastar Media Communications, Dr Adeniyi ifetayo presenting letter of nomination on the forthcoming “Megastar Man of the Decade Award” to the Senator in Benin, Edo State... yesterday.
Nigeria at 65: Atiku, Akpabio,
Barau,
Abbas, Mark, Govs, Others Celebrate
Our Correspondents
Prominent Nigerian leaders, yesterday, came out in their numbers to celebrate the country’s modest achievements in the last 65 years, especially since the return to civil rule.
They included former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Senate President Jibril Barau, Speaker of House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, and several governors.
The leaders preached unity, peace, and harmonious co-existence, with opposition figures also seizing the opportunity to expose what they termed the misdoings of the government of the day.
Generally, however, the independence day tributes from across the political divide expressed optimism that despite the evident inadequacies in some critical areas, Nigeria was destined for greatness.
Akpabio: The Worst is Over
President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, assured citizens that the pains of ongoing reforms under the President Bola Tinubu administration were temporary. Akpabio insisted that the country was already on the path to recovery, as the worst was over.
In a congratulatory message he personally signed, to commemorate Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary, Akpabio appealed to Nigerians to endure the difficulties with resilience and hope, saying the reforms are beginning to yield positive results.
The senate president stated, “My dear resilient and wonderful people of this great nation, I wish to heartily congratulate you for witnessing Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary celebration.
“At 65, we are matured and should be working for the unity of the nation and prosperity of our people. We salute your resilience,
patience and endurance in the last two years. We deeply appreciate your support and understanding.”
Akpabio added, “In line with the theme of this year’s celebration, all hands are on deck for a greater Nigeria, I urge you to continue to bear the temporary discomfort of the ongoing reforms.
“We are not unaware of the pains occasioned by the reforms, but I want to assure you, very soon, this will be a thing of the past because the benefits of the reforms are beginning to manifest positively.
“I must tell you that Nigeria is not finished. Do not buy into the mischievous narrative that Nigeria is irredeemable. We are on the right pedestal and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is reshaping the country; we are growing and making progress.”
Barau Calls for Unity, Support for Tinubu
Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, urged Nigerians to remain united and committed to national development, stressing the importance of rallying behind the Tinubu administration.
Barau, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, said the country’s founding fathers sacrificed to secure independence. He said the ideals of unity, peace, justice, and tolerance must continue to guide the nation.
The deputy senate president stated, “Fellow Nigerians, happy Independence Day. As we celebrate the 65th Independence Anniversary of our beloved country, we must remember the enormous sacrifices made by our founding fathers, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Sir Ahmadu Bello and Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, among others, and recommit ourselves to the ideals they stood for.
“Yes, at 65, we have some challenges facing us as a country, but we will overcome them. Our country,
the Federal Republic of Nigeria, will emerge stronger from its present challenges, by God’s grace.”
According to him, the benefits of Tinubu’s economic reforms are already surfacing, while security across the country has improved considerably in the past two years.
“Let us continue to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to actualise his policies and programmes as encapsulated in the Renewed Hope Agenda. He has good intentions for the country. We will get it right,” Barau stated. Abbas: Years Ahead Promises Better Deals
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, said Nigeria had come a long way through a chequered history, while the years ahead promised greater unity and prosperity for all.
Abbas, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Leke Baiyewu, said God had, indeed, blessed the country with immeasurable human and natural resources.
He called for collective efforts by all stakeholders towards building “a nation of our dreams regardless of religious, ethnic and political differences”.
Abbas stressed that Nigeria was on the right path with the ongoing implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.
He expressed optimism that the country remained the “Giant of Africa” and was bound to reclaim its position as the biggest economy on the continent.
While urging Nigerians to remain undaunted by the security and socioeconomic challenges, Abbas called for more prayers and patriotism, as they remained law-abiding.
He assured Nigerians of the 10th House’s commitment to providing accountable leadership, good governance, and dividends of democracy to the people, especially at the grassroots.
Atiku: This Government Has Abandoned Its People, Hails Nigerians’ Courage for Unity
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar paid tribute to the uncommon patience, endurance, and resilience of Nigerians, who, despite living under suffocating socio-economic and security conditions, continued to hold the country together.
In an Independence Day message released by his media office, yesterday, Atiku lamented that Nigerians were enduring excruciating pains, from raging insecurity, to rising food scarcity, mass unemployment, and a dangerous climate of hopelessness — all compounded by the insensitivity of the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration.
Atiku said in the message, “It is tragic,” Atiku declared, saying, “In a country blessed with immense human and material resources, millions of our people have been reduced to refugees and beggars in their fatherland.
“Every responsible government holds the welfare and security of its citizens as supreme. But what we have today is an administration that has abandoned its people.
“Hunger is killing Nigerians, bandits are massacring communities, yet President Tinubu and his cabinet stand by, unmoved and uncaring.”
Calling on citizens not to lose faith, Atiku reminded Nigerians that 2027 provided a clear opportunity to reject bad leadership and reclaim the promise of a better tomorrow.
He stated, “The beauty of democracy lies in the power of the ballot. Oppressed and battered as our people may feel today, they will have the chance to sweep away this inept government at the next polls. That is the power no cabal can take away from the people.”
At 65, Atiku stated, Nigeria remained a giant moving painfully slow on feet of clay — a direct result of decades of poor leadership and wasteful governance.
He urged Nigerians to keep hope alive, insisting that with the right leadership, the country can still rise from the ashes of failed governance to reclaim its rightful place in the comity of nations
Mark: Nigeria Needs Credible Leadership
National Chairman of African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, reflected on Nigeria’s 65 years of nationhood, describing the journey as one of resilience in the face of daunting challenges.
Mark acknowledged that the country had gone through many trials and emphasised that Nigerians must not lose faith in their collective ability to rebuild and reposition the country for prosperity.
In his goodwill message, Mark urged the citizens to draw strength from history and confront present realities with courage and unity.
He said, “Sixty-five years ago, we lifted the flag of freedom and declared ourselves a sovereign people. That moment was not just the end of colonial rule; it was the beginning of our responsibility to build a nation worthy of our hopes.
“Today, we look back with mixed emotions and gratitude for how far we have come, but concerned over the storms that still threaten our future.”
The ADC national chairman stated that the country stood at a critical juncture, weighed down by insecurity, unemployment, inflation, food scarcity, and the collapse of industries.
He stressed, “Our communities are restless under the grip of insecurity. Our youths are losing hope to unemployment. Inflation has eroded the dignity of honest earnings, while factories close and businesses relocate, leaving despair in their wake. Families struggle daily to put food on the table. These are harsh truths we cannot deny.”
Despite those difficulties, Mark said Nigerians must not give in to despair. He reminded citizens
that the great nations of today were also built through periods of severe hardship.
Oborevwori to Nigerians: Remain Steadfast
Delta State Governor, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, called on Nigerians to remain steadfast in their commitment to building a stronger and more united nation, assuring them that the country would overcome its current challenges and emerge greater.Oborevwori, in his Independence Day message, signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, urged Nigerians to continue to support President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” as well as the Delta State government’s “MORE Agenda”, which, he said, were designed to improve the living standards of the people.
Oborevwori stated that his government was investing heavily in massive infrastructure upgrades across Delta State, advancing a power revolution through a renewable energy mix, and creating an enabling environment to attract foreign direct investment.
He said the efforts were aimed at making life more meaningful for residents and significantly boosting the state’s economy.
The governor also used the occasion to appeal to all ethnic groups in the state to embrace peace and remain united, stressing that peace is a prerequisite for sustainable development.
Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and pledged to continue working for the progress and prosperity of all Deltans. Mutfwang Preaches Peace, Unity, National Transformation Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, joined millions of Nigerians to felicitate with Nigeria on
Continued on page 76
Dapo abioDun in China...
its 65th Independence Anniversary, preaching peace and unity.
In a goodwill message, Mutfwang described the anniversary as both a remarkable milestone and a solemn moment of reflection on Nigeria’s collective journey.
He stressed the need for renewed commitment to peace, unity, and national transformation that would enhance the welfare and well-being of citizens.
The governor paid glowing tribute to the founding fathers of the country, acknowledging their courage, resilience, and spirit of togetherness, which laid the foundation for Nigeria’s independence.
He stated, “It is with pride and profound humility that I felicitate with patriotic Nigerians across the globe on this 65th Independence Anniversary. This milestone calls for sober reflection on our unity, peace, and progress as a nation.
“Our hope and confidence remain that God Almighty is at work in Nigeria, and despite our challenges, this nation shall surely rise to greatness.”
Mutfwang reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building a Plateau where peace, security, and prosperity would thrive.
He said his government would continue to prioritise protection of life and property, infrastructure development, and promotion of unity across ethnic and religious divides.
He pledged to remain fair, just, and inclusive in governance, ensuring that every citizen, regardless of political or religious affiliation, was carried along.
Mohammed Stresses Need for Unity, Prayer, Mutual Coexistence for National Progress
Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, stressed the need for unity, prayer, and mutual coexistence for national progress.
Mohammed said this while extending warm felicitations to the people of Bauchi State and Nigerians, at large, on the occasion of the 65th Independence Anniversary of the country
In his goodwill message, issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Comrade Mukhtar Gidado, Mohammed described Nigeria’s independence as a milestone achievement that liberated the country from colonial domination and gave its people the right to
self-determination, socio-economic growth, and political development.
He urged citizens to reflect on whether the noble ideals of the founding fathers had been fully realised after 65 years of nationhood.
The governor said, “Though our development trajectory may not match that of some countries that gained independence around the same period, particularly the Asian Tigers, Nigeria has made significant strides in governing itself, managing diversity, and uniting towards nation-building.”
He acknowledged that the prolonged period of military rule had stunted democratic growth, but expressed delight that 26 years into uninterrupted democracy, Nigerians were beginning to savour the dividends of good governance.
Mohammed reiterated his administration’s resolve to sustain its multi-dimensional approach to development, particularly in infrastructure, security, and economic empowerment.
He disclosed that the state government had concluded arrangements for an investment summit, scheduled for October 8 and 9, aimed at attracting investors to harness the state’s enormous potential.
On security, Mohammed stated that peace remained the bedrock of development. He pledged continued collaboration with security agencies to safeguard life and property.
He appealed to citizens to support security efforts by reporting suspicious movements or persons to the relevant authorities.
Idahosa:
Time to Build, Not Just Celebrate
Edo State Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa, congratulated Nigerians on the country’s 65th independence anniversary, urging citizens to see the celebration as both a symbol of freedom and a call to duty.
In his message, signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Friday Aghedo, Idahosa described October 1 as a reminder of the courage, sacrifices, and vision of Nigeria’s founding fathers, who laid the foundation for a united and prosperous nation.
He stated that despite the challenges the country had faced over the decades, Nigerians had continued to show resilience, creativity, determination, and qualities, which must be harnessed to build a stronger nation.
The deputy governor stated, “Independence anniversary is not only a celebration of our freedom as a people, but also a call to duty. It is a reminder that the task of building a greater Nigeria lies with all of us.
“Let us remain committed to peace, justice, and the collective good of our nation.”
House Reaffirms Commitment to Unity
The House of Representatives reaffirmed its commitment to legislate with integrity, provide oversight that strengthens institu- tions, defend the vulnerable, and be a bridge of understanding in the diverse society.
Spokesperson of the House, Hon. Akin Rotimi, in a statement, said while the green chamber acknowledged that the country still had a long way to go in achieving its dreams, it must also celebrate how far it had come as a people in strengthening democracy, promoting unity, and laying the foundations of a more prosperous society.
Rotimi stated, “Independence Day is not just a date in history. It is a reminder of our shared identity, the sacrifices of our heroes past, and the resilience of generations who, through both struggles and triumphs, laid the foundation for the Nigeria we cherish today.
“It is also a call to rededicate ourselves to the ongoing task of building a country that lives up to its enormous promise. From the first parliament in 1960, Nigerians have recognised the legislature as the true custodian of representative democracy.
“Despite interruptions during periods of military rule, the legislature has always stood as a symbol of the people’s sovereignty and their right to representation.”
Rotimi said since the return to civil rule in 1999 and the advent of the Fourth Republic, the National Assembly had worked tirelessly to deepen democracy, strengthen institutions, and give practical expression to the aspirations of the citizens.
He stated, “At 65, the House of Representatives reaffirms its solemn duty to legislate with integrity, to provide oversight that strengthens institutions, to defend the vulnerable, and to be a bridge of understanding in our diverse society.
“While we acknowledge that we still have a long way to go
in achieving the Nigeria of our dreams, we must also celebrate how far we have come as a people in strengthening democracy, promoting unity, and laying the foundations of a more just and prosperous society.”
PSC, AANI Celebrate Tinubu, Nigerians
The Police Service Commission (PSC) and Alumni Association of the National Institute (AANI) felicitated with President Bola Tinubu, the government, and the people of Nigeria on the occasion of the country’s 65th Independence Anniversary.
PSC also extended warm greetings to officers and men of the Nigeria Police, as well as the dedicated staff of the commission, urging them to remain steadfast in their service to the fatherland.
A statement by PSC’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani, said the commission remained committed to reforms that would guarantee an efficient, motivated, and accountable police force.
Chairman of the commission, Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) of Police Hashimu Argungu (rtd), stated that Independence Day was not only a time of celebration but also of sober reflection on the sacrifices made by the country’s founding fathers and the collective responsibility of all citizens to build a united, peaceful, and prosperous nation.
Argungu called on police officers across the country to rededicate themselves to the principles of professionalism, discipline, and integrity as they carried out their constitutional mandate of ensuring law and order.
He stated, “As we celebrate our Independence, let us renew our faith in Nigeria and continue to work together in unity and love. The challenges may be daunting, but with resilience and commitment, our nation will continue to thrive.”
AANI, in a statement by its Presi- dent, Ambassador Emmanuel Obi Okafor, said the historic milestone of 65 years of independence offered Nigerians not only a moment of celebration, but also a solemn opportunity for sober reflection.
Okafor stated, “Our journey as a nation has been defined by resilience, diversity, and the unyielding spirit of our people. Yet, it also reminds us of the pressing challenges we must collectively
confront—especially the task of securing our land, strengthening our unity, and fulfilling the promise of prosperity for every Nigerian.
“AANI commends the gallant efforts of our military, security agencies, and other law enforce- ment bodies who continue to make immense sacrifices in countering insurgency, banditry, terrorism, and other security challenges across the country.
“Their courage and commitment to safeguarding our sovereignty and protecting our citizens are deeply appreciated. We, however, urge them to intensify their efforts, adopt innovative approaches, and sustain the momentum until peace and stability are restored in every part of Nigeria.”
AANI also enjoined the leadership of local, state, and federal governments to prioritise the safety and security of all citizens and residents.
LCCI Urges FG to Sustain Encouraging Macroeconomic Changes with Structural Reforms
Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) advised the federal government to deepen struc- tural reforms that could enhance ease of doing business in order to sustain the current encouraging macroeconomic signals. President of LCCI, Mr. Gabriel Idahosa, stated this in a press statement, titled, “Nigeria’s Economy at 65: Renewed Momentum and Cautious Optimism.”
Idahosa said, “Nigeria stands at an inflection point. Encouraging macroeconomic signals, including rising growth, more substantial reserves, improving oil output, and a downward trend in inflation, are visible.”
He added that the way forward laid with “deepening structural reforms that ease the cost of doing business”.
The LCCI president said the country’s 65th anniversary offered not only a moment of celebration but also of sober reflection on the state of the economy, the business environment, and the need for sustained reforms required to unlock Nigeria’s full potential.
“Examining major macroeco- nomic indicators, we observe a renewed momentum that is fostering cautious optimism about the economy,” he said.
Commenting on the state of the economy, Idahosa said key economic
indicators were showing some positive trends worth highlighting. He explained, “Economic growth is accelerating, with the second quarter GDP growth rate at 4.23 per cent. Productivity in the oil and gas sector is “Headlinerecovering. inflation, while still elevated, has eased to 20.12 percent as of August. The Naira exchange rate is appreciating and trending below the psychological N1500/ USD mark.
“External reserves have strength- ened to above $42 billion. For the first time since 2020, the monetary policy authorities eased rates to 27 percent after several hikes due to spiralling inflationary pressures.
“Significant tax reforms are underway. These developments create a cautiously optimistic business climate. One that offers opportunity but demands sustained policy discipline and private-sector agility.”
So Far, Not So Good, Declares ActionAid, In apparent thumbs-down ActionAid Nigeria declared that the Nigerian story still begged for answers on why the country had not gone beyond its current level.
Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, Dr. Andrew Mamedu, in a statement, said, “As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence Anniversary on October 1, 2025, ActionAid Nigeria joins citizens to reflect on our country’s journey.
“Sixty-five years after independence, and 26 years into an unbroken stretch of democratic governance, Nigerians are entitled to ask difficult but necessary questions about the state of the nation.”
Mamedu commended the resilience of Nigerians and the endurance of the country’s democratic system, despite flaws, in sustaining constitutional rule and peaceful transfers of power since 1999.
Mamedu said, “We also recognise areas of progress, including new railway projects, private sector-led investments such as the Dangote Refinery, the continued role of agriculture as the backbone of the non-oil economy, and modest improvements in the solid minerals sector, which, if properly managed, could diversify revenue and create jobs.
“These gains, however, remain overshadowed by persistent crises that undermine the well-being of millions.”
L-R. GM, SDLQ, Wan Yu-Fan; Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun and Director, Rizhao Foreign Affairs Office, Xie Jixiao during a meeting with the company’s management at Shandong, China.
N I ger IA AT 65: ATI ku, AkpA b
Abb
aCCOUNTiNG TO sHaREHOLdERs…
L-R:
Director, Marketing
Police Rescue Kidnap Victim after N10m Ransom Demand in Anambra
david-Chyddy Eleke in awka
Police in Anambra State have rescued a kidnap victim who had already been charged N10 million as ransom for his freedom.
The state Police Command’s spokesperson,
SP Tochukwu Ikenga, who revealed this in a statement, said the victim was rescued just seven hours after he was kidnapped.
Ikenga said the rescue followed a swift and coordinated operation carried out by Joint Operatives from the Anambra State Police
Amotekun AmbushedOperatives in Osun
yinka Kolawole in osogbo
The Osun State Security Network Agency, known as Amotekun Corps, has confirmed a violent ambush on its operatives while responding to a distress call from residents of Akinlalu, a community in the Ile-Ife axis of the state.
The incident occurred yesterday and resulted in a deadly confrontation between the corps and suspected armed hoodlums.
According to official reports, the operatives were dispatched from
the Amotekun Command in Ile-Ife following an emergency call from Akinlalu residents, who reported a group of suspected bandits invading farmlands in the area.
Acting swiftly, four Amotekun operatives mobilised on motorcycles to address the situation and ensure the safety of the local population.
Tragically, while en route to Akinlalu, the team was ambushed by armed assailants, suspected to be the same group terrorising the community.
WAPTV Announces More Youthoriented Content for Viewers
sunday Okobi
Ahead of its 13th anniversary celebrations on October 1, 2025, wapTV, Nigeria’s leading family entertainment channel, has announced several upcoming changes in its programming which would further increase the content tailor-made and targeted towards the Gen Z generation while also growing the overall entertainment being enjoyed by millions of wapTV viewers of other ages worldwide.
The Managing Director of wapTV, Wole Adenuga, in
a statement yesterday, said:
“One major improvement in wapTV’s new programme would be the introduction of fresh young presenters who would be coming onboard to join our existing OAPs.
“This ongoing extensive repackaging exercise also includes the construction of more aesthetic sets, creation of fresh inserted contents, acquisition of new ultramodern equipment to improve picture quality, more partnerships with youthoriented event organisers, and a few awesome surprises.”
Command Tactical Team.
He said the operation was carried out in the early hours of yesterday, after which the kidnap victim was
successfully rescued at Oba/ Ojoto axis, seven hours after he was abducted by armed criminals at Umuru Village in Nnobi.
He said: “The criminal elements had earlier demanded a ransom of ₦10million from the victim, but the Joint Command
Tactical teams, on an intelligence-led operation, were immediately deployed in the location for aggressive and extensive combing.
Experts Harp on Research to Reclaim Family Cultural Values
Kuni Tyessi in abuja
In the call towards reclaiming African cultural identity and values, Professor of sociology, demography, population studies and social research at the University of Lagos, John Oyefara, has harped on the need for research, documentation, data
collection and dissemination of the findings. He said while all cultures have positive and negative sides as revealed in the face of education, awareness and globalisation, Nigerians must not lose sight of the importance of what family, culture and values can offer in national development.
Speaking on the theme,”
Reclaiming African Family, Culture and Values” which was organised by The Initiative for Equal Rights (TIEM), Oyefara stated that as Nigeria’s continue to have contact with other societies, advancement is achieved and people bring in the right approach to issues that centre on agitations
to what is different from that they’re used to. According to him, “What we need to do really is to see how we can do more of studies to be able to understand these cultural issues that are good, because there might be some other aspect of our culture that might not be good.
Warri Delineation: Harriman Tasks INEC to Uphold Integrity
sylvester idowu in warri
A former member of the House of Representatives for Warri federal constituency, Hon. Temi Harriman, has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to adhere strictly to the law establishing it
and discharge its duties with integrity.
She gave the charge last weekend during a public presentation of a book titled: ‘INEC Corrupt Practices: The Siamese Twins and Warri Federal Constituency’, co-authored by the Egogo of Warri Kingdom, Chief Robinson
Ariyo, and Jolone Ikomi, both wof ho are lawyers. Harriman stressed during the book launch that only strict compliance with the law can resolve the controversies trailing INEC’s recent ward and polling unit re-delineation.
According to him, “We are not merely talking
about the immediate judgment,” she said, noting that: “INEC has been told to revisit this matter because the genesis of the problem must be addressed systematically, from the ground up. Respecting the law is the only way to sustain peace. Nigeria is not a jungle.”
Lumumba, Obasanjo, Jonathan for Island Club’s Lecture, Awards
ayodeji ake
In commemoration of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, Island Club, Nigeria’s social club and custodian of national dialogue since 1943, has announced a scheduled event for Independence Lecture and
Awards Night.
Addressing journalists in Lagos about the event slated for October 2, 2025, at the club’s historic Peacock Hall, with the theme: ‘Nigeria and the African Reawakening: The Giant That Must Not Sleep’, the Chairman of Island Club, Omoba Dr. Rotimi Martins,
noted that the lecture would focus on the urgent call for the nation to rise to its historic responsibility as Africa’s beacon of hope.
“It is an occasion for sober reflection on our journey from colonial subjugation to sovereignty, and a platform to critically assess Nigeria’s
central role in Africa’s political, economic, and cultural resurgence,” he said. Martins, during his speech, announced the attendance of the eminent pan-Africanist and global thought leader, Professor Patrick Loch Otieno Lumumba, as the keynote speaker.
Rite Foods Preaches Support as Nigeria Marks 65th Independence
Mary Nnah
Rite Foods Limited, Nigeria’s leading food and beverage company, is adopting the theme
“Nigeria @ 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation” as the
country celebrates its 65th Independence anniversary. This theme highlights the company’s commitment to supporting the country’s growth and progress.
As a proudly Nigerian company, Rite Foods has consistently demonstrated
its commitment to the nation’s progress.
In a press release, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Rite Foods Limited, Seleem Adegunwa, emphasised the significance of Independence Day, saying, “It is a time to celebrate the sacrifices and vision of our founding leaders who paved the way for a united Nigeria. It is also a reminder for us all to reflect on our shared history and commit to building a brighter future.”
Company Secretary, Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc; Oloruntomiloba Olagunju, Chairman, Abimbola Oguntunde; Managing Director/CEO, Olaotan Soyinka, and Executive
& Business Development, Mrs. Ugochi Odemelam, at the company’s 30th Annual General Meeting in Lagos... Recently
WORLd MaRiTiME day CELEBRaTiON…
LGA Workers Suspend Strike as Fubura Intervenes in Rift with Chairman
Blessing ibunge in Port Harcourt
Timely intervention by the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has ended industrial action which commenced yesterday by workers of Emohua Local Government Area workers in the state, over rift with the LGA Chairman, Mr. Chidi Llyod. Governor Fubara had after a meeting held behind closed doors with the leadership of Rivers State Council of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), the Local Government Service Commission, and Chairman of Emohua LGA, Llyod, directed that the parties resolved their differences amicably.
In a joint press briefing after the meeting yesterday in the Government House, Port Harcourt, the Chairman of Local Government Service Commission, Israel Amadi, Emohua LGA chairman, and President of Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees, Rivers State Council, Clifford Paul, commended Governor Fubara for his intervention, and assured him that they would comply with his directive to ensure that the disputes are harmoniously resolved.
According to the chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, Amadi, “His Excellency has given his mandate and we want to use this opportunity to
Plateau Liaison Director Backs State Police
The Liaison Director for MDAs and Security Agencies in Plateau State, Hon. Ziphion Chrysanthus, has stated that Nigeria’s centralised security system has failed to address the country’s growing and localised security challenges. He, therefore, stressed the need for the creation of state police.
Chrysanthus, in a statement issued yesterday, argued that rejecting state policing out of fear of abuse by governors is tantamount to denying Nigerians the prospect of safer communities.
His remarks came in response to the rejection of the idea of establishing state police forces by Hon. Yusuf Gagdi, who represents Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam
federal constituency in the House of Representatives.
“The claim that state police could be abused is an argument that serves the comfort of the elite, notinterestserest of the people. Security cannot be micromanaged from Abuja. It must be localised, responsive, and communitydriven,” he said. According to him, establishing state police would ensure quicker response time, stronger local intelligence, and the deployment of officers familiar with the cultural and geographical contexts of their communities.
Chrysanthus stressed that concerns of abuse can be tackled through robust checks and balances, similar to accountability mechanisms in federal institutions.
thank him for intervening. And we hope that everything that we have discussed and resolved will be implemented as we also thank NULGE
for their collaboration and cooperation.”
Also speaking, Chidi Llyod noted that Governor Fubara has issued clear directives, and assured
them that they would work together to implement the directives.
He emphasised that the governor had further directed that the Council
and the Local Government Service Commission should take it further, noting that: “We will come out very soon with all that we have agreed.”
Osun 2026: APC Fixes December 13 for Guber Primary
Pegs nomination form at N50m
yinka Kolawole in osogbo
The All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday announced that its primary for the August 8, 2026 governorship election in Osun State will hold on
December 13, 2025.
The party also remarked that its nomination and expression of interest forms will go for N50 million.
This is contained in the party’s official schedule of activities detailing timelines for nomination, screening,
delegate congresses , and primary elections.
In a statement signed by the National Organising Secretary, Sulaiman Argungu, and issued from the party’s National Secretariat in Abuja, the APC said the election process would commence with the notice of election to the State Chapter on Friday, 3rd October 2025, while the update of the membership register will run from Monday, 20th October to Friday, 31st October 2025.
Katsina Resuscitates 139 Communities with N1.7bn Projects
Francis sardauna in Katsina
The Katsina State Government has resuscitated 139 communities with N1,668,000,000 worth of rural development projects across the 34 local government areas of the state.
The community-driven
projects, which cut across healthcare, education, water ,,and road,s were executed in the communities by the government through its Community and Social Development Agency (CSDA).
The state Commissioner for Rural and Social Development, Prof.
Abdulhamid Ahmed, disclosed in in this an interview with some journalists at his office in Katsina.
He said the 139 communities were given a grant of N12 million each from the state government’s coffers, amounting to N1,668,000,000, to execute
at least two major projects of their choice. He reiterated that the projects had revamped the benefiting communities and empowered residents through inclusive and sustainable access to other essential services aimed at ameliorating their impediments.
Kogi Offers Access to 76,000 Enrollees in Health Insurance Scheme
ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja
Kogi State Government has flagged off the Health Insurance intervention and the access to care to over 76,000 enrollees, the distribution of equipment, andthe the distribution of 62,000 direct solar refrigerators by the Kogi
State Primary Healthcare Development.
The flag-off ceremony which took place yesterday at the Government House in Lokoja was spearheaded by the Kogi State Health Insurance Agency, State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (KSPHDA), and the
coordinating State Ministry of Health.
The Governor, Usman Ododo, explained that his administration is committed to the welfare of the people of the state, noting that that was why the state government upgraded all the Primary Healthcare Centres to bring quality
healthcare service delivery to the doorsteps of the people in rural areas.
The governor, during the flag-off, also gave an assurance that his administration would not relent in providing opportunities that would guarantee citizens’ access to quality healthcare.
EDC, AGRA Partner to Offer Agric SMEs Growth Strategies
The Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) of Pan-Atlantic University in collaboration with Alliance for Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) has created a platform titled: ‘Exclusive Networking Event’, which is capable of connecting agricultural small and medium enterprises (SMES)
to key players in the sector.
The SMEs include financial institutions, business development service providers, and government officialsm thereby discovering strategies to fund, grow, and scale their businesses.
Also titled: Funding the Future: Powering Nigeria’s
Agric-SMEs, the recent Lagos event brought together agricultural business stakeholders from around the country.
Its goal was to connect them with key players in the Nigerian agriculture sector and provide strategies for funding, growing, and scaling their
businesses. The two-day session featured insightful panel discussions, funding opportunities, strategies, and success stories from some of the most successful food and agricultural SMEs, and high-value networking with some financial institutions and investors.
Funmi Ogundare
L-R: Director-General, Nigeria Chamber of Shipping, Mrs. Vivian Chimezie-Azubuike; Board of Trustees (BoT) Chairperson, Women in Maritime and Energy (WIME) Awards, Dr. (Mrs) Chizoba Anyika; President, WISTA Nigeria, Dr. Odunayo Ani, and Managing Solicitor, Trizon Law Chambers, Mrs. Foluke Akinmoladun, at the 2025 World Maritime Day celebration in Lagos…recently
Osimhen Fires Galatasaray to Famous Win Over Liverpool
Duro Ikhazuagbe
Nigerian international, Victor Osimhen, returned from Injury lay-off to snatch a vital UEFA Champions League 1-0 win for Galatasaray against Liverpool in Istanbul.
The defeat was a second successive defeat suffered by Liverpool.Osimhen who has been on the sideline since he copped an ankle injury on duty for Nigeria in a World Cup qualifier against Rwanda in Uyo, put away a penalty after 16 minutes and Galatasaray then resisted the pressure from mighty Liverpool to win their first game in the group phase of the Champions
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
League.
He had at least two other chances to give his team a more convincing victory.
The Super Eagles striker also became the first Nigeria to score double figures in the Champions League after Obafemi Martins netted nine goals in this competition.
It was remarkable fight back by the Turkish champions after they were humbled 5-1 by Eintracht Frankfurt in their opening group tie.
Liverpool Head coach Arne Slot left talisman Mohamed Salah on the bench after the Reds lost at Crystal Palace, but
Ikoyi Club 1938 Kicks off 87th CelebrationsAnniversary with Fanfare
Nigeria’s foremost socio-cultural sports club, Ikoyi Club 1938, has kicked off celebration of its 87th anniversary with series of programmes lined up.
Disclosing this at a pre anniversary Press Briefing in Lagos on Monday, Vice Chairman of the Club, who also doubles as Chairman, Organising Committee of the 87th anniversary celebration, Bolaji Martins, said that the anniversary celebration com- menced with the official press briefing and will run through to Sunday, October 5th, 2025.
According to him, part of the celebrations include Staff Engagement and Symposium/BusinessAnniversary that took place yesterday evening.
“This will be followed by junior member’s party on Wednesday before a glamorous evening of fashion, music, dance and more for Ladies in the evening,” he noted. Thursday, September 2nd
has been dedicated to the Elders while Digital Night, an exploration of the impact of Artificial Intelligence on the world will hold Thursday evening.Aviation Day is slated for Friday before Millennial Vibes in the evening. Saturday, Oc- tober 4th will witness another bumper day with Health Walk in the morning, followed by International/Global Cultural Day and Saturdaymore.would be rounded off with Black Tie event in the evening.
He disclosed that Sunday, October 5th is the anniversary grand finale and Gala night. Themed Heritage and Legacy; the anniversary emphasizes the club’s long history and enduring legacy as a symbol of prestige and excellence.
Ikoyi Club was originally set up as European Club in 1938. Akinwumi Akintola is Ikoyi Club 1938 Chairman.
failed to fire amid a constant cacophony of noise at RAMS Park.
And, to add to Liverpool’s misery, goalkeeper Alisson went off injured in the second half
after pulling off a superb save from Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen.
Slot introduced Salah and Alexander Isak just after the hour in an attempt to salvage something but it was to no avail.
Liverpool thought they would get the chance to rescue a point when referee Turpin pointed to the spot after Ibrahima Konate went down, but the decision was overturned following a video assistant referee (VAR) review.
Wike Backs Nigeria’s 2030 Commonwealth Games Bid with Road Construction
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has given Nigeria’s bid to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Abuja a major boost with the flagging off of the 2.4 kilometres Arterial Road S1 in Kaura District.
He conceded at the occasion yesterday that it would be herculean for Nigeria to secure the hosting rights of
the Commonwealth Games without a good network of roads.
Wike asserted that the bid evaluation committee would see in place the basic infrastructure being provided that would give Nigeria the leeway to be given the hosting rights of the Commonwealth Games when it visits Abuja.
“So, all these linkages, all this network of roads, is also geared
to showcase to the world that we have a city that can host the next Commonwealth of Games.
“Again, the road will help the Fire Service Station in case of emergencies.We have always talked about fire incidents and the response is not usually timely. But we don’t ask ourselves, it’s not only the fact that maybe they may be lacking some basic amenities,
but also they don’t have good network of roads that will enable them to move down and to see that that fire incident is solved.
“Look at the fire service station there. By the time this road is constructed, with the three-span bridge, of course anywhere there is any fire incident and they are called upon, they will respond immediately,” Wike said.
Showdown Glanton, Browne Go for Broke in Today’s ‘Chaos In The Ring’ at Mobolaji Johnson Arena
Ahead of today’s Independence Day boxing confrontation, tagged-’Chaos In The Ring’ slated for the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos, headline fighters, Brandon Glanton and Marcus Browne have been talking tough ahead of their cruiserweight clash.
The first of its kind boxing showdown in Nigeria organised by CEO Balmoral Group, Dr. Ezekiel Adamu in conjunction with British boxing legend,
Amir Khan, is seen as Africa’s biggest boxing extravaganza since the famed “Rumble in the Jungle” in 1974.
Marcus Browne (25-2, 16 KOs), a 2012 Olympian and former WBA interim light heavyweight champion, said the fight is another step in his mission to become a twodivision titleholder.
“I’m fully loaded and I’m ready to press the trigger,” Browne declared at the Lagos press“Fansconference. should expect power
boxing, fireworks, and a state- ment for the cruiserweight divi- sion. This fight is sentimental for me, being Liberian, I feel at home in West Africa. I’m grateful for the opportunity, and I want to put on a show forHowever,Nigeria.”his opponent, Bran- don Glanton, a heavy-handed American with a reputation for knockout power, has dismissed Browne’s comments, insisting he is ready to impose himself in “I’mLagos.fully prepared. I’ve got
great opposition in front of me, but I’m here to show myself,” Glanton said. “People know I don’t come to dance around the ring. Expect an explosive fight—I’m coming to show exactly who I am.”
Meanwhile, organiser of the event, Dr. Adamu, described “Chaos in the Ring” as the biggest boxing showcase in Africa since Mohammed Ali versus Gerge Foreman.
“Our ambition is to stage a boxing spectacle that rivals Saudi Arabia’s recent mega-
the Premier League champions
Victor Osimhen celebrating his winner from the spot after firing Galatasaray to a famous UEFA Champions League win over Liverpool in Istanbul...last night
Kunle Adewale
L-R: Olufemi Shadamoro, Entertainment Chairman; Babasola Olalere, Honorary Treasurer; Akinwumi Akintola, Chairman, Ikoyi Club 1938; and Bolaji Martins, Vice Chairman of the club who also doubles as Chairman of the Organising Committee, during the press briefing to mark the 87th anniversary of Ikoyi Club 1938 in Lagos ....recently
RUSSiAn ChApTER of ThE BRiCS WomEn ALLiAnCE ViSiTS fiRST LADy...
First
M O h AMMED I DRIS
Nigeria at 65: A Nation Tested and Triumphant
Alot has changed since our 64th Independence Day anniversary, a year ago—and positively so. Nigeria today is better positioned for enduring economic growth and prosperity than it has been in a long time.
In this piece, I would like to highlight the progress we have made as a nation over the past year.
External reserves have grown from $37 billion to $42 billion. The Naira has gained about 6 percent against the US dollar since a year ago. Headline inflation, which stood at 32.7 percent a year ago, has fallen to 20 percent and is still declining. The Central Bank has just cut interest rates for the first time in five years, reflecting rising confidence in macroeconomic stability. In June 2025, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) affirmed that “Nigeria [is] no longer on the list” of countries where airline funds are blocked from repatriation.
Four landmark tax bills have been passed—the single largest fiscal reform in our recent history. On the strength of reforms that have grown revenues and blocked leakages, we have achieved the unprecedented feat of hitting the federal revenue target for the 12 months of 2025 in August—five months ahead of schedule.
In infrastructure, the presidential legacy projects have moved from fledgling ideas to visible, tangible wonders—mile after mile of imposing concrete roads stretching through communities from Lekki to Calabar to Enugu to Akwanga to Sokoto, and more. Across the country, state-of-the-art cancer centers, electricity substations, MSME hubs, student loans, cash transfers, and new Regional Development Commissions are impacting the lives of the Nigerian people.
In oil and gas, we have seen the conclusion of the historic IOC divestments, ushering in a new chapter of indigenous strength and capacity in our energy industry. We have also welcomed a $5 billion FID from Shell—in the Bonga North deepwater project—alongside several new gas supply agreements that will transform the LNG market both domestically and for export.
Many notorious terrorist and bandit leaders who were actively unleashing violence a year ago have been neutralised or are now in captivity, while our security agencies continue to score improvements in both capacity and synergy.
In sports, our women’s national teams made history:
the Super Falcons with their Mission X triumph, and the D’Tigress with their Mission V success—five consecutive AfroBasket titles.
The past year has also brought Grammys, Guinness World Records, and our first official selection ever for the Cannes Film Festival—a testament to Nigerian grit and cultural genius.
The period has also seen several Nigerians elected or appointed into key international organisations, including the Vice Presidency of the International Association for Ports and Harbours; Vice Chairmanship of the International Telecommunication Union Council; Chairmanship of the World Customs Organisation Council; and the Executive Directorship of the WHO’s
Health Emergencies Programme, among others. Nigeria is now the AU’s Digital Trade Champion, and the designated provider of strategic sea support services to the Union, through the Nigerian Navy. And in January 2025, we attained the status of a BRICS partner country.
In the first half of 2025, Nigeria-China trade surged to $15.48 billion, a 34.7 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024. This comes almost exactly a year after our bilateral relations with China were upgraded to a comprehensive strategic partnership at the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
There is indeed much to celebrate, affirming President Tinubu’s uplifting charge to the nation on October
1, 2024: “While it is tempting to focus on what has been left undone and where we have stumbled as a nation, we must never lose sight of how far we have come in forging and holding our country together.” Today, as we turn 65 and begin our 66th year as an independent nation, every word of that charge rings true. The road has been challenging, but the rewards have been real, and we have forged a bold path toward the light, just as the President promised. At 65, a person is considered a senior citizen—typically retired from active service. But for a nation, 65 years of independence is not a long time; it is correct to say this is ‘morning yet on creation day’ for us. That said, we are no longer the traumatised 39-year-old that took tentative steps into democracy in 1999.
We have grown wiser, made mistakes, and learned from many of them. We have come to understand, by experience, what Winston Churchill meant when he said that “democracy is the worst form of government except for all those other forms that have been tried.” We will never allow this democratic journey to be undermined.
Twenty-five years into this historic Fourth Republic, Nigeria has at its helm a bold and experienced reformer—one unafraid to take hard but necessary decisions for the country’s future; and with a vision to deliver a trillion dollar economy by 2030.
We are able to look ahead to the coming year with great hope and confidence that we are on the right path, moving in the right direction. In the next few weeks, preparations for the 2026 budget will gain momentum, with all hands on deck to deliver a budget that truly works for the people. And in January, the new tax laws will take effect, opening a new chapter of economic dynamism.
In his 2024 Independence Day address, President Tinubu urged: “I urge you to believe in our nation’s promise. The road ahead may be challenging, but we will forge a path toward a brighter future with your support.”
Looking at how the past 12 months have validated these powerful words—a challenging road that nonetheless opens up endless possibilities for growth, prosperity, and progress—I have no doubt whatsoever about the greatness that lies ahead as we begin the count down to our 66th Independence anniversary.
•Mohammed Idris, fnipr, is the Honorable Minister of Information and National Orientation.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu (M) flanked on the immediate right by Chairman Russian Chapter of BRICS Women business Alliance, Nesterova Anna, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment Hon Jumoke Oduwole and others and flanked on the immediate left by Minister of Women Affairs Hajia Iman Ibrahim-Sulaiman, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Amb. Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu and others during the courtesy visit of the Russian Chapter of the BRICS Women Alliance to the First Lady... yesterday
