WEDNESDAY 28TH MAY 2025

Tinubu Seeks National Assembly’s Approval for Fresh

Debt rolling plan outlines external borrowing for federal, sub-national govts for over two years, Finance Ministry clarifies Says debt rolling plan does not equate to automatic increase in the

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the

Minister of Women Affairs,

Representatives,

Minister of state for Education, Prof.

Wife of the Vice President, Hajia

Said

Wife

the Deputy Senate

First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu; Minister for Education, Dr.

Sultan of Sokoto, HRH Muhammad Sa’adu Abubakar; Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Zulum; and Emir of Zauzau, HRH Amb. Nuhu Bamalli, at the launch of the Special Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning & Development (AGILE) Additional Financing to States and AGILE Games Award Ceremony, held at the State House, Abuja, yesterday

June 12: Kola Abiola Demands Recognition for Persons Murdered, Jailed by Abacha Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Kola, the first son of the late billionaire businessman, Moshood Kashimawo Abiola, yesterday released what he described as a ‘substantive response’ to the recent book released by former Head of State, Ibrahim Babangida,

PDP NEC: Tinubu’s Negligence, Abdication of Constitutional Duties Buoying Terrorism

Says policy inconsistency, wholesale corruption, massive treasury looting, budget padding, public funds diversion, responsible for loss of investor confidence Defers discussions on Anyanwu to next NEC meeting on June 30 Lamido warns collapse of party may breed emperor as president

Lagos… recently

L–R:

Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim;

Suwaiba

Ahmad;

of

President, Hajia Laila Barau; Wife of

Speaker, House of

Hajia Fatima Tajudeen Abass;

Nana Shettima;

Tunji Alausa;

Tinubu: Resolve to Fight Corruption

Unwavering, Unshakeable

Promises to strengthen anti-corruption institutions Fagbemi: $763,734,000, £6,472,610 repatriated in eight years

$659,900,000, £6,472,610 invested in conditional cash transfer, presidential infrastructure development fund projects

Alex Enumah in Abuja

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has once again reiterated the determination of his administration to fight the monster of corruption bedeviling the country to a standstill.

Tinubu, who gave the reassurance yesterday, at a one-day Asset Recovery Summit in Abuja, lamented that Nigeria has witnessed the devastating effects of corruption on healthcare, education, and infrastructure, among other sectors, adding that the consequences of misappropriated public funds were painfully evident.

While emphasising that corruption weakens institutions, erodes trust in governance, and deprives the people, especially the most vulnerable of the services and opportunities they deserve, he assured that his government would do everything to rid Nigeria of corruption, irrespective of whose ox is gored.

“I would like to reassure you all that my administration is committed to aggressively pursuing the recovery of stolen assets, ensuring that every looted fund is returned to the Nigerian people.

“Our government will take deliberate steps to strengthen anticorruption institutions and policies in the fight against corruption, enforce transparency and accountability, and

hold perpetrators accountable for their actions and ensure that justice is served — no matter whose ox is gored.

“Our resolve as a government to fight corruption is unwavering and unshakeable, and we implore you all to join us in this journey to rid our society of corruption.”

He commended the organisers of the summit, describing the theme, “Synergising Towards Effective Assets Recovery and Management,” as very apt, as it marks another critical step in the nation’s journey to strengthen governance, combat corruption, and ensure sustainable development for the country.

The president noted that recovering stolen public funds and channeling them towards developmental needs represents both justice and restitution.

“It is about restoring the people’s trust and ensuring that every kobo of our national wealth works for the common good,” he added.

“Asset recovery sends a clear and unwavering message: there will be no safe haven for corruption in Nigeria. It serves as a deterrent, a symbol of accountability, and a practical tool to rebuild national confidence in public institutions,” he said further.

Tinubu stated that Nigeria, in recent times, had taken deliberate steps to institutionalise transparency in the

use of recovered and repatriated assets, adding that the government has prioritised their use in financing critical infrastructure projects that impact the everyday lives of citizens.

“Notable among these are the Lagos- Ibadan Expressway, the Second Niger Bridge, the Abuja-Kano Expressway, and rural electrification programs.

These investments are symbolic of our promise to deliver dividends

of democracy through integrity and accountability.

“Furthermore, in line with the Global Forum on Asset Recovery (GFAR) Principles, Nigeria continues to engage civil society organisations in monitoring the utilisation of recovered assets. This approach ensures inclusivity, transparency, and public ownership of the asset recovery process. Periodic audits and public reporting have helped

institutionalise accountability and build confidence”, he added.

Earlier, the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, noted that Nigeria has made remarkable strides in asset recovery, both domestically and internationally of recent.

Fagbemi claimed that the Federal Ministry of Justice (through its Assets Recovery & Management Unit),

Anti-Corruption and Law Enforcement Agencies (the EFCC, ICPC, NDLEA, NFIU, Police), and some other relevant organisations actively involved in the recovery of assets, have performed creditably very well in the discharge of their mandates. The achievements, the AGF noted, have led to successful recoveries and repatriations of assets or proceeds of crime, from both within and outside Nigeria.

Tinubu Commends SEDC’s Vision to Catalyse $200bn Economy in South-east

Dike Onwuamaeze

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the vision of the South East Development Commission (SEDC) to catalyse a $200 billion economy in the South-east geopolitical zone.

Tinubu gave this commendation, yesterday when the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of SEDC, Mr. Mark Okoye, presented the commission’s first 100 days report card to him.

The SEDC covers five south

eastern states, which are Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo States.

Okoye said: “Earlier today (Tuesday), I had the honour of briefing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on the 100-day report of the SEDC.

“Mr. President expressed strong satisfaction with our progress — from our bold vision to catalyse a $200 billion regional economy through collaboration with state governments and the private sector, to our #RenewedHope programs and strategy to align SEDC’s efforts with the aspirations of the South-east.”

jinx. Thank you, Boss.”

He also said Tinubu’s charge to him was clear and unambiguous, which was to “fast-track execution and deliver impact.”

The goal of the SEDC as it declared in its mission and vision statements is to, “drive sustainable development, economic growth, and unity in the South-east through strategic investments and empowerment initiatives” in a manner that would “position the South East as the preferred investment destination in Africa by 2035

Wale igbintade

Former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, yesterday, asked the Lagos Special Offences Court for permission to engage a forensic expert to examine a handset device used to extract WhatsApp conversations presented as evidence in his ongoing trial for alleged $4.5 billion and N2.8 billion fraud.

Emefiele Seeks Forensic Expert to Scrutinise $17m WhatsApp Evidence in Fraud Trial Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Emefiele and his co-defendant, Henry Omoile, face a 19-count charge bordering on money laundering and fraud.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had accused Emefiele of receiving $17,100,000 from a businessman, Raja Punjab through an intermediary, Monday Osazuwa, as a reward

for facilitating foreign exchange allocations from the CBN.

During yesterday’s proceedings, EFCC operative Alvan Gurumnaan testified that between September 2020 and June 2, 2023, just days before Emefiele’s suspension as CBN Governor, the former Governor of the apex bank allegedly received multiple payments totaling $17.1 million via Osazuwa.

Gurumnaan claimed that Osazuwa delivered the funds to Emefiele’s residence, where they were handed to Omoile.

The EFCC, represented by lead prosecutor Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), sought to admit WhatsApp printouts of conversations between Punjab and his employer as evidence.

Emefiele’s counsel, Olalekan

Ojo (SAN), did not object to the tendering of the device and printouts but insisted that the defence should have the right to inspect the device personally or through a forensic expert to verify the authenticity of the messages.

Ojo argued that the defence must confirm whether the printouts genuinely originated from Punjab’s phone and whether the conversations were complete.

The prosecution, however, objected to the oral application, urging the court to direct the defence to file a formal application.

Yinka Kotoye (SAN), counsel to the second defendant, Omoile, also reminded the court that the defence had previously requested access to the device, but the prosecution had not provided it.

Okoye added that this moment was deeply significant for students of history.

He stated that, “since the end of the civil war in 1970, no Nigerian President, military or civilian, had granted the South-east’s longstanding request for a development commission focused on reconstruction and rehabilitation.

“Mr. President broke that 54-year

As part of marking of its first 100 days, the SEDC announced that it would be targeting a $1 billion asset base by 2035 through its South East Investment Company (SEIC) and a $50 million South East Venture Capital Programme (SEVCP) to fuel start-ups and engender inclusive innovation.

The SEDC said both the SEIC and the SEVCP would drive economic development and unlock the full potential of the region.

The commission said that it has moved swiftly to establish a coherent strategic direction, as well as a defined programmatic focus and a functional administrative backbone with offices in Enugu State, Abia State and Abuja. The SEDC said: “Key initiatives launched in this period include the SEIC, designed to drive bankable regional projects with a $1 billion asset base target; a $50 million South East Venture Capital Fund to support startups and inclusive innovation; and the South East Grassroots Recreation Infrastructure Development (SEGRID), a grassroots sports and youth development initiative.”

The commission revealed that it has engaged with all five South-east governors through virtual public sessions with over 30 federal ministries and agencies, key development finance institutions, organised private sector leaders, academic institutions, and more than 1,000 citizens, adding that 3,500 volunteers have registered to support its mission.

Bola Tinubu has rejoiced with prominent politician and former Minister of Transportation, Hon Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi, ss

L-R: Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, South East Development Commission(SEDC), Mr. Mark Okoye, and President Bola Tinubu, during a visit by Okoye to present 100-day report of SEDC to the president in Abuja...yesterday

TOUR OF GBOKO UNDERPASS PROJECT...

L-R: Former Director-General,

AfDB Forecasts

in 2025, Drop to 17.3% in 2026

Nigeria’s Inflation to Average 24.7%

Nigeria approves $500m for AfDB’s trust fund replenishment over 15 years Adesina hails Tinubu, Shettima’s commitment to continent’s development

The African Development Bank (AfDB) in its latest African Economic Outlook 2025 (AEO) projected that Nigeria was expected to record an average inflation of 24.7 per cent for 2025 before recording a significant decline to 17.3 per cent in 2026. The report highlighted inflation as one of the most pressing challenges facing Nigeria’s economy in the short term, driven by exchange rate depreciation, high energy and food costs, and ongoing structural reforms.

another 15 years.

Also, yesterday Nigeria approved a fresh $500 million replenishment of the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF) at AfDB, extending the facility for

President of the AfDB, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, announced this during his opening remarks at the ongoing AfDB Annual Meetings in Abidjan, as he expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for their continued support.

Also, the Secretary-General of the

United Nations, António Guterres, praised Adesina, for his transformative leadership and unwavering commitment to Africa’s development over the past decade.

The AEO report also projected that monetary tightening, improved agricultural output, and easing global supply constraints could contribute to a notable drop in inflation by 2026.

Rivers Administrator to Defend Budget Before Joint National Assembly Committee, Says Senate

The Senate yesterday, revealed that the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas and other key functionaries would defend the state’s 2025 budget before the Joint National Assembly Ad-hoc Committee to Oversee Emergency Rule in Rivers State.

The upper chamber also assured Nigerians that it had determined to ensure the people of Rivers State “are not shortchanged due to the declaration of emergency rule by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on March 18.”

The Leader of the Senate/Chairman, Senate Ad-hoc Committee to Oversee Emergency Rule in Rivers State, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, disclosed this at the inaugural meeting of the committee held in Abuja.

After President Tinubu declared emergency rule in Rivers State, the President of the Senate, President

Godswill Akpabio, had subsequently constituted an 18-member Committee on Emergency Rule under the chairmanship of Bamidele.

Among others, the inaugural meeting was attended by Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Tahir Munguno; Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Peter Nwebonyi; Chairman, Senate Committee on Land Transport, Senator Adamu Aliero; Chairman, Senate Committee on Finance, Senator Sani Musa; Chairman, Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and Other Financial Institutions, Senator Adetokunbo Abiru and Chairperson, Senate Committee on Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Senator Oluranti Adebule.

At the inaugural meeting yesterday, Bamidele revealed that both chambers of the National Assembly had agreed to hold a joint session to oversight the 2025 budget of the

state, which the sole administrator laid before the parliament last week through President Tinubu.

According to a statement, Bamidele, representing Ekiti Central in the Senate, assured Nigerians that the National Assembly, “is determined to work closely with members of the House of Representatives Ad-hoc Committee to Oversee Emergency Rule in Rivers State to ensure financial propriety and good governance.

“It is our understanding with our colleagues in the House of Representatives that the sole administrator and other relevant functionaries of the state will all appear the joint ad-hoc committee of both chambers of the National Assembly when it is time for them to defend the 2025 the budget at the National Assembly,” Bamidele said with assurance to provide effective oversight in the state.

FG Inaugurates Presidential Committee on Implementation of Digital Public Infrastructure

The federal government yesterday inaugurated the Presidential Committee on the Implementation of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) with the task of ensuring a robust, coordinated and legally compliant implementation of DPI that aligns with Nigeria’s development goals. The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, emphasised the importance of the DPI in promoting Nigeria’s digital economy. According to the SGF, who was represented by Minister of Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, “DPI is the key to unlocking new avenues for growth, creating jobs,

improving public service delivery and empowering our citizens. To achieve this vision, we must establish a well-coordinated and robust governance structure to drive its implementation.”

He charged the Presidential Committee to work assiduously to provide necessary strategic direction and coordination of the seamless integration of the three core pillars of the DPI, which are digital identity, financial payments and data exchange, to foster innovation and evidence-based decision making in governance.

The DPI is to be chaired by President Bola Tinubu, with the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (member/secretariat), the Head of Civil Service of The Federa-

tion (member), Attorney General of The Federation and Minister of Justice (member) and Minister of Finance

Other members of the committee are Minister of Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy(member), Minister of Interior (member), Minister of Budget and National Planning (member), Director-General, National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) (member) and Director-General, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) (member).

In her remarks, the Director General, National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Abisoye Coker-Odusote, reiterated the role of NIMC in improving the overall quality of life of Nigerian citizens through a digital publication structure.

He, further, noted that the inaugural meeting “was a necessary ritual to enable the committee carry out its assignment and mandate. The committee will guarantee that the democratic rule will continue to function in Rivers State despite the declaration of emergency rule.

“The Senate is committed to the rule of law as well as the tenets of democracy. I am also confident in the pedigree of the members of this ad-hoc committee to deliver on the role of oversighting the activities of the sole administrator of Rivers State,” the chairman of the ad-hoc committee further said.

Bamidele, therefore, challenged all members of the committee to be diligent and thorough in providing oversight functions for the Government of Rivers State and ensuring that the citizens of Rivers State are not shortchanged due to the declaration of emergency rule

However, the bank warned that further fiscal and structural adjustments would be critical to sustaining disinflation.

On the growth front, Nigeria’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was projected to expand by 3.2 per cent in 2025, slowing slightly to 3.1 per cent in 2026.

This reflects a downward revision of 0.3 and 0.5 percentage points, respectively, from earlier AfDB forecasts. The weaker outlook was attributed to global economic headwinds, reduced external demand from key partners like the U.S. and China, and lingering uncertainty in financial markets.

Despite these challenges, the bank noted that improving oil output and increased local refining capacity—especially with the ramp-up of the Dangote refinery—have helped strengthen Nigeria’s external position.

The country’s current account surplus, which stood at an estimated 9.2 percent of GDP in 2024, was forecast to moderate to 4.7 per cent in 2025, and 3.9 percent in 2026 as global conditions tighten.

Nigeria’s fiscal deficit was projected to remain elevated, at four per cent of GDP in 2025 and –4.2 per cent in 2026, underscoring the need for stronger revenue mobilisation efforts.

The report noted that West Africa’s real GDP growth was expected to average 4.3 per cent in both 2025 and 2026, slightly lower than earlier projections.

Nigeria, Ghana, and Sierra Leone are expected to grow below the five per cent regional threshold, while

other economies in the bloc are set to benefit from stronger domestic demand, new oil and gas production notably in Senegal and Niger, and rising value addition in agriculture.

The report stated: “Real GDP is projected to moderate to 3.2 per cent in 2025 and 3.1 per cent in 2026, as global uncertainty has increased.

“Services and industrial expansion will drive the economy as inflation moderates and higher oil production reaches 1.8 mbpd.

“Inflation is projected to moderate to 24.7 per cent in 2025 and 17.3 per cent in 2026, supported by tight monetary policy. The fiscal deficit is projected to remain at four per cent of GDP. The current account surplus is projected to narrow to 4.7 per cent of GDP in 2025 and 3.9 per cent in 2026, as imports start to normalise.

“The risks to the outlook include rising geopolitical tensions and greater policy uncertainty, volatile commodity prices, lower oil prices, slowdown in reform momentum, insecurity, and adverse weather events.”

Furthermore, on the Nigerian economy, it stated: “Through fiscal and tax reforms, the government is poised to increase tax revenues for higher public investments in critical public infrastructure, like electricity and transport, which will further drive economic growth.

“The tax reforms are aimed at simplifying the tax structure, increasing compliance, and adjusting tax rates all expected to increase collections.

ASIF 2025: Edun, Oduwole, Others to Discuss Role of Sovereign Investment Fund in Attracting Foreign Capital

James Emejo in Abuja

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, and his counterpart in the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investments, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, will discuss the pivotal role of sovereign wealth funds and institutional investors in mobilising regional and international capital to drive inclusive growth and transformation across Africa, at the fourth annual meeting of the Africa Sovereign Investors Forum (ASIF 2025).

The august event, with the theme, “Leveraging African Sovereign Wealth Funds to Mobilise Global Capital for Transformative Development in Africa,” is scheduled for June 16 to 17 in Abuja, and it would

be hosted by the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA).

It will bring together sovereign wealth funds, global institutional investors, development finance institutions, C-suite executives, thought leaders, and sector experts from across the investment landscape to foster strategic partnerships that aligned with a shared commitment to Africa’s sustainable development and economic transformation.

In a statement, NSIA spokesperson, Joyce Onyegbula, said Chair, International Forum of Sovereign Wealth Funds (IFSWF), Obaid Amrane, and President/Chairman, Africa Export–Import Bank (Afreximbank), Professor Benedict Oramah, will lead the discussions with other dignitaries.

The two-day event will feature thought-provoking panel sessions, fireside chats and curated networking sessions aimed at deepening collaboration and catalysing investment across priority sectors in infrastructure, energy, healthcare, technology, and more. Commenting ahead of the summit, Managing Director/ Chief Executive, NSIA, Aminu Umar-Sadiq, said, “NSIA is honoured to host sovereign wealth funds from across the continent to the fourth Annual Meeting of the Africa Sovereign Investors Forum in Abuja. “This gathering comes at a pivotal moment that demands bold, coordinated action to deepen collaboration and unlock global capital for sustainable, large-scale, inclusive development in Africa.

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Nume Ekeghe in Abidjan

National Orientation Agency (NOA) and Chief Executive Officer, TSM Media, Mike Omeri; former Minister of Information, Labaran Maku; Director, Civil Engineering, Benue State Ministry of Works, Tivfa Wombo, and Project Engineer, Bauhaus Global, Charbel Tannous, during the media tour of the Gboko underpass project in Benue State…yesterday

R-L:

FG Mulls New Measures to Improve Road Infrastructure, PPPs

Bagudu: $100 billion annual investment required to

James Emejo in Abuja

Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, yesterday disclosed that the federal government was exploring and testing innovative methods to improve road infrastructure through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs).

Speaking when he received the new Japanese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Hideo Suzuki, who paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja, Bagudu said partnership will be crucial for unlocking long-term sustainable development.

He stressed that the country’s economy relied heavily on road transportation.

The minister added that Nigeria’s clear objective was to ensure that it benefited equitably from partnership with Japan.

Bagudu said, “Under our Agenda 2050 Long-Term Development Plan, Nigeria estimated that a minimum annual infrastructure investment of $100 billion per annum will be required to achieve its ambitious target of a $30,000 per capita GDP by 2050.

“Furthermore, in response to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s eightpoint agenda, we are determined to

build a $1 trillion economy within the next five years; this is a bold target, and we are already over 10 per cent of the way towards achieving it.”

Bagudu stated that the country was actively addressing the challenges of underinvestment, particularly in infrastructure, stating that the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) can utilise its unique experiences and innovative approaches employed in other parts of the world.

He expressed gratitude to JICA for its expanding involvement in Nigeria’s national development, stating that the partnership between the two countries will facilitate the integration of global best practices while preserving the distinctiveness of their respective identities and strategic goals.

Earlier, Suzuki provided a brief on the Data Collection Survey on Transport and Logistics in Nigeria. He informed the minister that the project for the development of supporting environment for start-ups and addressing social challenges, which was signed in Abuja in April 2024, was the first of its kind in Japan. He explained that it had attracted considerable interest in Tokyo due to its innovative and inclusive approach.

Other initiatives included the FCT Reduction of Non-Revenue Water Project, the Project on Promotion of Market-Oriented Agricultural Extension Systems for Livelihood Improvement, and the Role of PostHarvest Processing and Marketing Pilot Project in Nasarawa and Niger states.

In a statement, Suzuki said

the initiatives reflected Japan’s deep commitment to supporting Nigeria in establishing inclusive systems that would tackle genuine, everyday challenges. He expressed his eagerness to further strengthen Japan–Nigeria collaboration across all sectors.

Suzuki replaced Ambassador Matsunaga Kazuyoshi, who spent

four years in Nigeria. The director overseeing the office of the Permanent Secretary, who also doubles as Director, International Cooperation Department, Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Dr. Samson Ebimaro, stressed that the key mandate of the ministry was to grow the economy and in growing the economy, the country needed to spur economic activities to increase the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as well as provide and support an enabling environment for investments. Ebimaro said, “Delivering key economic variables require adequate and efficient methods of infrastructure, especially in the area of transport.”

Again, Navy Deactivates 8 Illegal Refineries, Recovers 16,040 Litres of Stolen Crude Oil in Delta

Sylvester Idowu in Warri

In a sustained effort to enhance Nigeria’s daily crude oil output and combat economic sabotage, personnel of the Nigerian Navy attached to Forward Operating Base (FOB) Escravos have again deactivated eight illegal oil refineries at Obodo Omadino community in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State. The exercise executed in three different operations led to the seizure of 16,040 litres of stolen crude oil and 1,650 litres of illegally refined

Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).

According to the Commanding Officer, Forward Operating Base (FOB) Escravos, Navy Captain Ikenna Okoloagu, yesterday, the seized items were found in two ovens, 43 dug out pits and 18 polythene sacks.

He disclosed that the first operation was carried out on May 14 this year when operatives, based on credible intelligence uncovered and dismantled two illegal refineries sites at Obodo Omadino which contained approximately 5,625 litres of stolen crude oil, stored in one oven and 17 dug out pits.

Navy Captain Okoloagu said five

days later and precisely on May 19, 2025, operatives again discovered and deactivated three refining sites in same Obodo Omadino which led to recovery of approximately 2,500 litres of stolen crude oil and 1,650 litres of illegally refined AGO, stored in 1 oven, 5 dugout pits, and 18 polythene sacks.

“Maintaining operational momentum, FOB ESCRAVOS personnel conducted a follow-up operation on 26 May 2025, uncovering and deactivating another three illegal refining sites at Oteghele, also in Obodo Omadino. These sites harboured an estimated 7,915 litres of stolen crude oil, concealed in 21

dugout pits”, he added. The Naval Boss said the operations, which were conducted under Operation Delta Sanity II and guided by actionable intelligence, underscored FOB Escravos’ unwavering commitment to the Strategic Directives of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla (Admiralty Medal), aimed at eliminating all forms of maritime illegality in Nigeria’s territorial waters. He assured of Navy FOB Escravos commitment to its mandate of disrupting the operations of economic saboteurs and ensuring that Nigeria harnesses the full benefits of its natural resources.

A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has issued a bench warrant for the arrest of Director, Investigation and Prosecution at the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Mr. Joseph Eriki, and 11 others.

The arrest order was made following the failure of the defendants to appear before the court to defend a charge of criminal conspiracy, criminal trespass, forgery and using as genuine a forged document in relation to landed property in Abuja.

While the federal government is the sole plaintiff, the first to 12th defendants include Boniface Agwu, Ikechukwu Kanu, Eriki, Super Structure Ltd, Bonatec Electrical Company Ltd, Weatherfield Engineering, Marine Service Limited, Asher Information Services Ltd, Prince Isaac Omoluwa, Nwaimoneye Augustine Onyisi, Suraju Aliyu, and Ogbole Michael.

Justice Suleiman Belgore, who issued the order on Tuesday, specifically charged security agencies to arrest the defendants wherever they were found in the country and bring them before the court for trial on charges bordering on land grabbing.

When the matter was called, counsel to the federal government, Mr David Kaswe, told the court that the defendants were on administrative bail and were duly informed of the charges against them. He, however, lamented that all efforts to bring them to court proved abortive, as none of the defendants could be located at the addresses they supplied.

Citing Section 124 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015, Kaswe applied for the court to issue a bench warrant against the defendants as the last resort to compel their appearance before the court.

Kaswe, in a four paragraph affidavit deposed to in support of

the suit, stated that the defendants were arrested over alleged criminal conspiracy, criminal trespass, forgery, using as genuine a forged document, criminal force to deter a public servant from his duty, wrongful restrain and causing hurt.

The lawyer, while stating that investigations were concluded before a charge was filed, added that a prima facie was established against the defendants.

The prosecution claimed that the first to ninth defendants unlawfully entered upon plot 461-470 and 486-496 belonging to Etha Ventures and put up structures with intent to defraud Etha Ventures Ltd.

The prosecution further alleged that the defendants in trying to actualise their intent fraudulently secured a consent judgement in suit No FCT/HC/CV/240/2019 giving title of Plot 1406 (461-470 ‘and 486-496) Sabon Lugbe East Layout, Abuja, to Super Structures Ltd.

Emmanuel Ugwu-nwogo in Umuahia

The deputy governorship candidate of the Young Progressives Party(YPP) in the 2023 general election in Abia State, Chief Chimaobi Desmond Anyaso, has pitied Abia opposition for the challenging task ahead of them come 2027.

He said with the sterling performance of Governor Alex Otti in the first half of his four-year tenure, it would be very challenging for the opposition to unseat him.

Anyaso who reviewed the scorecard of Otti to mark the governor’s second anniversary in piloting the affairs of Abia, noted that, “Abia State, under the astute leadership of Alex Chioma Otti, has proven to be exceptionally promising”.

“His (Otti) giant strides are posing

a formidable challenge for opposition parties, particularly those entrenched in adversarial politics, to effectively fulfill their roles within the democratic framework of both Abia State and Nigeria at large,” he said.

According to a press release from his media office, Anyaso made his frank assessment of Otti’s performance at various meetings he held with the state leadership of his party and select stakeholders from Bende Local Government Area.

Anyaso, business magnate cum politician stated that despite the existence of “isolated dissenting voices opposing the governor, the overwhelming majority of Abians remain steadfastly aligned with him”

He insisted that the dissenting politicians, who consistently avoid acknowledging any positive contributions of Governor Alex Otti, either

publicly or privately, “constitute a mere minority”.

The Abia YPP chieftain noted that the prevailing democratic framework in Abia State and Nigeria is a pointer to the fact that it is the majority that ultimately dictates electoral outcomes.

He, therefore, stated that judging by what the people are saying, Otti has won the hearts of majority of Abians.

The Igbere-born politician, who has remained consistent in advocating good governance in Abia State and for enhanced infrastructural development throughout the Bende Federal constituency, said that Otti’s performance resonates with him. He vowed that he would not shy away from extolling Governor Otti at any forum for his numerous accomplishments.

President Bola Tinubu with the Director General, Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership, Mr. Joseph Olasunkami Tegbe during a visit to the Presidential Villa, Abuja last Friday.

alex Enumah in Abuja

Green Energy Seeks Partnership with NNPC to Develop 5 New $5.5bn Onshore Oil Terminals

Says $400m Otakikpo terminal to unlock 3bn barrels of stranded reserves

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Green Energy International Limited (GEIL) has signaled its readiness to collaborate with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) under the leadership of its new Group Chief Executive Officer, Bayo Ojulari, to develop five new onshore crude oil terminals across Nigeria.

In a statement yesterday, the firm stated that the strategic move was aimed at addressing critical infrastructure gaps and supporting the nation’s ambitious target of ramping up crude oil production to 3 million

barrels per day by 2030.

GEIL said its studies revealed that without these additional terminals, Nigeria’s oil sector will struggle to achieve this production milestone set by the authorities.

“The research underscores the need for rapid decentralisation of onshore terminal and export infrastructure, emphasising that current evacuation methods are insufficient for handling the anticipated surge in output.

“The company’s recent success— the Otakikpo crude oil terminal—has set the stage for this transformative expansion. As Nigeria’s first indig-

enous onshore crude export hub in over five decades, Otakikpo boasts a 750,000-barrel storage capacity and a 360,000 barrels per day pumping capability.

“The Otakikpo terminal, a $400 million investment, boasts a 750,000-barrel storage capacity and a 360,000 barrels per day pumping capability, designed to unlock over 3 billion barrels of stranded oil reserves.

“Building upon this foundation, GEIL plans to invest $5.5 billion in five new terminals, strategically positioned to reduce reliance on vulnerable pipeline infrastructure,”

the firm stated.

Chairman of GEIL, Prof. Anthony Adegbulugbe, emphasised the urgency of expanding the nation’s terminal network, stating that until this is done, Nigeria’s crude oil production may remain constrained.

“A decentralised export system is essential for Nigeria to sustainably reach 3 MMBOPD by 2030. Without it, production constraints will continue to hinder economic growth and sector efficiency”.

Adegbulugbe emphasised the transformative impact of the Otakikpo terminal and the necessity of further

p D p nec : T I nubu’ S n egl I gence, Ab DI c ATI on of c on STIT u TI on A l Du TI e S

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), yesterday, rose from its 99th National Executive (NEC) meeting and resolved that President Bola Tinubu’s alleged negligence and abdication of his constitutional duties to ensure safety and security of the citizenry, have been responsible for the increasing banditry, kidnapping and other acts of terrorism in parts of the country. Also, based on the advice from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the PDP, the party has reserved the decision on its embattled national secretary, Samuel Anyanwu, to June 30, 2025.

This was as a former Jigawa State governor, Sule Lamido, yesterday, said the PDP was an integral part of Nigeria’s democratic history and that the continued existence of the party was tied to the country’s survival. Lamido, who was a guest on a national television’s Political Paradigm programme, added that if the PDP collapses, Nigeria would breed an emperor as president. In yet another development, a chieftain of the party, Chief Olabode George, has said the PDP made the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, who he is today irrespective of what he thought.

THISDAY was reliably informed that at Monday’s National Caucus

meeting, a three-man committee comprising the governors of Taraba, Enugu and Zamfara States, was directed to interface with INEC on the position of the law and due process. The committee reported back on Tuesday on what INEC advised, stating that 21 working days must be given based on due process, adding that the due process must commence with a petition from the south East zone that they had lost confidence in Anyanwu as the substantive national secretary. It was based on that the national caucus proceeded with the 99th NEC at the alternate office of PDP located in Maitama, Abuja. The meeting was observed by INEC officials, where a petition was

formerly submitted by the south east zone on their loss of confidence in Anyanwu as the national secretary. The 99th NEC adopted the petition of the south east and adjourned for another NEC meeting to June 30, where the issue of a substantive national secretary would be discussed and agreed upon.

In the communique read by the acting National Chairman of the party, Amb, Iliya Damagum, the meeting expressed ‘’Serious concern over the sorry and melancholic state of affairs of our nation under the irredeemably exploitative, insensitive and anti-people APC administration, condemns the worsening insecurity, the wanton killings and the violence against the people.’

TInubu SeekS nATIonAl ASSemblY’S ApprovAl for freSH $23.5bn, €2.265bn, ¥15bn, n757.9bn loAnS

implementation of the Presidential Executive Order on foreign currencydenominated financial instrument local issuance programme.

Also, the President requested the approval of the legislative arm for the federal government’s 2025-2026 external borrowing plan.

However, the Director, Information and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Finance, Mohammed Manga, in a statement made available to THISDAY, yesterday, clarified that the proposed debt rolling plan outlines the external borrowing framework for both the federal and sub-national governments over a two-year period.

Manga, stressed that importantly, the debt rolling plan does not equate to an automatic increase in the nation’s debt burden. He explained that majority of the proposed borrowing would be sourced from Nigeria’s development partners, including the World Bank, African Development Bank, French Development Agency, European Investment Bank, JICA, China EximBank, and the Islamic Development Bank. These institutions offer concessional financing with favorable terms and long repayment periods, thereby supporting Nigeria’s development objectives sustainably.

This was as the Senate yesterday,

“The government’s ambition is to raise domestic revenue to 18 per cent of GDP by 2030 from 13 per cent of GDP in 2024.

“The ongoing monetary reforms need to be matched with reforms on the fiscal side. Accelerating tax policy and administration reforms to reduce complexity will help improve domestic resource mobilisation.

“To support the policy objective of the trillion-dollar economy, the central bank has increased the financial sector’s minimum capitalisation requirements, building resilience to shocks. In the high-interest rate environment, innovations in concessional or blended finance will help investment in growth- and job-enhancing sectors.”

Meanwhile, Nigeria has approved a fresh $500 million replenishment of the NTF at the AfDB, extending the facility for another 15 years.

President of the AfDB, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, who announced this, expressed appreciation to Tinubu and Shettima for their continued support.

“To President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and to Vice President Kashim Shettima, for your support over the past

took a significant step towards reforming the management of Nigeria’s public assets by introducing the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (Repeal & Re-enactment) Bill, 2025.

The fresh borrowing plan, according to Tinubu, would be used to finance critical projects cutting across various sectors of the economy, particularly infrastructure, health, education, water supply, among others.

Tinubu noted that as stated in the Presidential Executive Order, the proceeds of the debt instrument to be raised from the domestic market and its accretion shall be ring-fenced and invested in critical sectors to be approved by the President on the recommendation of the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, subject to appropriation of the National Assembly.

The President added that the minister in making his recommendation, shall have regard to a sector’s capacity to accelerate economic growth, earn foreign exchange, drive infrastructure development, create jobs, and yield reasonable returns on investment.

Tinubu stressed that one of the benefits of the policy was that investors would have the opportunity to earn reasonable income on their US Dollar funds, while allowing the

two years, I am profoundly grateful. Thank you for graciously approving the replenishment of the Nigeria Trust Fund for another 15 years for $500 million”

The NTF established in 1976 by the Nigerian government, is a concessional financing window managed by the AfDB to support low-income African countries with critical development financing at affordable terms.

The NTF established through a formal agreement between the Nigerian government and the African Development Bank Group, operates as a self-sustaining, revolving facility. Its primary mandate is to support the development agendas of low-income regional member countries whose economic and social conditions warrant concessional financing.

In his message of commendation, Guterres hailed Adesina’s bold vision, notably through the Bank’s “High 5” agenda powering, feeding, industrialising, integrating Africa, and improving quality of life as a game-changer that has improved millions of lives across the continent.

He said: “Dr. Adesina, your vision

government to channel the funds to productive uses in the economy.

The president added that it was a viable fiscal strategy with the potential to boost accretion to reserves and promote exchange rate stability.

Tinubu pointed out that it would help diversify the sources of funding for the government and deepen the investor base for government Securities.

He said it would also increase the range of products in the local financial market and enable investors to diversify their portfolios.

On the cost implications for public debt, Tinubu stressed that the capital raising would lead to increase in the public debt stock; and would also increase debt service costs.

In the Senate, Tinubu’s request was conveyed to the Senators in a letter read to the lawmakers on the floor by the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio.

Part of the letter read, “The 2025–2026 borrowing plan covers all sectors with specific emphasis on infrastructure, agriculture, health, education, water supply, growth, security, and employment generation, as well as financial and monetary reforms, among others.”

The total loans requested under

and dedication to just and sustainable development have changed countless lives across Africa. You set a bold course to help shape the continent for the better through your highfives agenda, powering, feeding, industrialising, integrating Africa and improving the quality of life.:

Guterres noted that under Adesina’s leadership, the AfDB tripled its capital base and responded decisively to urgent global challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic. He also recognised Adesina’s role in advancing long-term solutions such as clean energy access, climate-resilient agriculture, and innovative financial frameworks for developing nations.

He added: “As president of the African Development Bank, you tripled the bank’s capital base. Lead responses to urgent crises, including COVID-19, while advancing longterm solutions from clean energy to climate-resilient agriculture, and your leadership on Special Drawing Rights has opened new avenues in financing for development.

“This is essential to support countries facing crushing debt climate shocks and limited fiscal space.”

infrastructure expansion to accommodate Nigeria’s growing production. He expressed the company’s unwavering backing for initiatives that will further help the country unlock its abundant hydrocarbons resources.

He stated: “We are committed to pioneering solutions that unlock Nigeria’s vast oil reserves and optimise crude export logistics.”

Industry stakeholders believe the proposed partnership with NNPC and Ojulari, will potentially reshape Nigeria’s crude export landscape, even as negotiations continue and

It lamented that, ‘’banditry, kidnapping, marauding of communities and other acts of terrorism in various parts of our country emboldened by President Tinubu’s apparent negligence and abdication of his constitutional duties to ensure safety and security of his citizens.

‘’NEC also laments the worsening economic hardship and extreme poverty in the country occasioned by the ill-advised and ill-implemented policies of the Tinubu administration hike in fuel price wanton increase in electricity tariff multiple taxes and unexplained charges on services resulting in collapse of productive sector closure of millions of businesses massive loss of jobs rise in criminality and general sense of misery across the country

the external borrowing plan included $21,543,647,912; €2,193,856,324.54; ¥15 billion; and a €65 million grant. Tinubu, acknowledged the impact of the fuel subsidy removal on the economy and explained that the loans would be utilised to address areas of challenge.

He said, “In light of the significant infrastructure deficit in the country and the paucity of financial resources needed to address this gap amid declining domestic demand, it has become essential to pursue prudent economic borrowing to close the financial shortfall.”

He assured the Senators that the funds would be judiciously applied in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The President said, “This initiative aims to generate employment, promote skill acquisition, foster entrepreneurship, reduce poverty, and enhance food security, as well as to improve the livelihoods of Nigerians.”

calling on the federal government to formally honour persons who were murdered or jailed under the military regime of Sani Abacha.

Specifically, Kola mentioned Alhaja Kudirat Abiola and Chief Alfred Rewane; other heroes of the NADECO struggle as well as journalists and activists, including Mohammed Adamu; Alao AkaBashorun, Mr Olu Akerele, Col. Olu Bamgbose (rtd) Mr Frank Kokori, amongst many others.

While highlighting former Muhammadu Buhari’s role in honouring Abiola, Kola recalled that the ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo refused to recognise or honour June 12 or MKO Abiola in its eight years of governance.

In contrast, he stated that Buhari’s government designated June 12 as National Democracy Day in 2018, replacing May 29, President Obasanjo’s preferred date and renamed the National Stadium MKO Abiola Stadium in 2019.

“The government of the day should take responsibility for and strive to correct misdeeds and injustices of the past. This process was started by President Muhammadu Buhari in 2018 and we would like to urge the

‘’NEC also condemns the policy inconsistency wholesale corruption massive treasury looting budget padding and diversion of public funds that forbid the administration resulting in infrastructure retrogression and loss of investors’ confidence in our system.

“NEC restates the PDP demand that this administration should rescind all its anti-people policies and take practical steps to address the insecurity and economic recession in the country.

‘’Furthermore, NEC stands in firm resistance to the sinister plot by the Tinubu-led APC to turn Nigeria into a one-party totalitarian state as evident in the desperate attempts to strip and annihilate opposition parties through open-stitch threats and intimidation of opposition figures and institutions of democracy in Nigeria.

‘’It is clear that this plot is born out of APC’s mortal fear of inevitable defeat in 2027 due to its dismal failure in government,’’ the communique stated.

On the part of the PDP, the communique stated that, ‘’NEC restates our party’s belief in democracy, the

government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to complete the task of ‘putting right a national wrong,” he stated.

He also recommended the opening of a national register of hitherto now ‘unnamed victims’ of the June 12 annulment tragedy along with a national monument to mark this phase of Nigeria’s history.

Arguing that Nigeria hasn’t learnt any lesson from the ‘terrible’ experience of June 12, he therefore recommended that an accurate June 12 history be included in the national educational curriculum.

Beyond honouring and recognising the victims of June 12, he said he believed Nigeria owes it to the generations coming after this to speak the truth and state the facts about this part of the country’s history as opposed to revising or rewriting it.

“We owe this to the demographic that makes up 65 per cent of our population and who are the future of our nation,” he stated.

He also flayed Babangida for failing to name the persons who pressured him to cancel the polls, stressing that it was a letdown that a Military General was afraid of death.

rule of law and the supremacy of the will of the people as expressed through their free and unhindered democratic participation into multiparty politics and governance.

‘’The successful convening of the 99th NEC meeting clearly communicates our party’s unity and focus despite challenges. NEC also received and ratified the composition of the committee on the zoning of national offices ahead of the national convention.

‘’The members of these zoning committees are Governor Duoye Diri, Chairman Governor Dauda Lawal, Vice-Chairman and Kaleb Mutfwang, Secretary. That is the zoning committee.

‘’The members of the National Convention Committee are Governor Amadu Fintiri, Chairman, Governor Ademola Adeleke, Vice-Chairman and Governor Peter Mbah, Secretary.

‘’NEC also received the resolution of the South-East General Executive with regard to the issue of the National Secretary, and to be considered and deliberated upon in the next NEC which is slated for June 30

‘’NEC reassures Nigerians that PDP remains strong resilient united and determined now more than ever before in leading the charge to rescue our nation from the vicious grip of APC administration.”

The chairman of the party’s Board of Trustees, BoT, Senator Adolphus Wabara, expressed confidence that the party must again become the beacon of hope for the Nigerian people.

According to Wabara, ‘’The journey of our party has been long, sometimes turbulent, but always deeply rooted in our collective aspirations for a united, democratic and prosperous Nigeria.

‘’While we have faced internal and external challenges, and in most

“After 32 years out of office, one wonders why IBB believes that the living culprits should still remain nameless. He found it easy to name Abacha, who is late and can’t defend himself from the grave, but struggles to apologise or properly own up to the truth and consequences of his action.

“In his 420-page memoir, he states that if he had gone ahead and upheld the results of the June 12 election, there was a threat to his life and that of MKO. Thirty Two years after, he is alive to write and launch and benefit from his memoirs, while MKO was consumed by the whole ordeal.

“What an irony; a battle tested General and Military President for eight and half years who survived at least one bloody coup attempt was afraid of death while a civilian, MKO, confronted the dangers head on.

“If for just that one loss of MKO Abiola, the names of the culprits, dead or alive, should have been mentioned 32 years after, starting with the unnamed Lieutenant General. To do otherwise is to confirm that this has always been about self preservation and IBB’s desire to remain in power,” he added.

discussions progress positively, with the imminence of a formal agreement.

Bayo Ojulari

AKPABIO MARKS 2025 CHILDREN’S DAY CELEBRATION WITH STUDENTS...

Oluremi Tinubu Launches Expanded

AGILE Programme for Girls’ Education

Celebrates girls’ achievements on Children’s Day Education takes centre stage as Borno, Kaduna shine at AGILE games awards

Wife of the president, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has launched a new phase of the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) programme, signalling a renewed commitment to girls’ education in the country.

The unveiling coincided with the Children’s Day celebrations held on

Tuesday at State House, Abuja, where children, dignitaries, and education stakeholders marked the event.

The event also featured the maiden AGILE Games Award Ceremony, which recognised exceptional talents in sports, arts, and academics.

Describing Nigerian children as “the heartbeat of the nation,” Mrs Tinubu encouraged young learners to continue to strive for excellence.

She told the children, “Keep learning, keep creating, and know that your potential to make a real difference in Nigeria is limitless.”

While rejoicing with the participants, the first lady stressed the inclusive spirit of the initiative, saying, “whether or not you receive an award today, you are all champions.”

She thanked state governors, traditional rulers, and religious leaders for

their roles in promoting girls’ education, and urged continued collaboration towards a shared national goal.

Mrs Tinubu also outlined upcoming programmes under the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), including the creation of Environment Clubs in secondary schools and Environment Societies in tertiary institutions, alongside a new sanitary pad distribution scheme, Flow with Confidence, aimed at supporting

50% of Nigerians Unaware of Law Prohibiting Gender-based Violence, Says Invictus Africa

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

Invictus Africa, an organisation that advocates inclusive policies, equity and institutional accountability, has expressed worry that the law on Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) is yet to make reasonable impact a decade after its enactment. It said a recent survey conducted across the country showed that only about 49.3 per cent of Nigerians had ever heard of the VAPP law. According to the group, 10 years after the enactment of VAPP Act in Nigeria, most states are yet to commence full implementation of the law.

While presenting its report yesterday in Abuja, Executive Director of Invictus Africa, Bukky Shonibare, said the survey report

showed that public awareness about the law had remained low just as its implementation across the states.

Shonibare said while 23 of the 35 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) had established sex offenders’ registers, only 18 had integrated them into broader gender-based violence tracking systems.

She further said although 32 states authorised courts to issue protection orders, 19 could not provide issuance data highlighting critical monitoring gaps.

She also said funding constraints existed for implementation of free gender-based violence related medical care in most of the states.

With regard to coordination, the report said out of 36 states, 27 had designated enforcement bodies for

the VAPP law.

Shonibare said despite its shortcomings, VAPP Act could serve as a legislative foundation for combating violence in Nigeria.

She stated, “However, a consistent pattern emerges from the survey data: laws have been passed, but implementation is uneven, underfunded, and inaccessible to many, especially those in rural areas and with lower education levels.

“To close the gap between law and lived reality, Invictus Africa calls for urgent, strategic action in four priority areas: Scaling up inclusive public awareness campaigns to ensure that every Nigerian, regardless of background, knows their rights under the VAPP law.”

Shonibare explained, “Strength-

Edo PDP Condemns Looming Breakdown of Law and Order in Benin City

Canvasses responsive leadership

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

The Edo State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said it is deeply concerned about the unfortunate incidents that have occurred in Benin City in the last 48hours where an altercation between some youths and law enforcement officers escalated into violence. According to reports, the unrest was triggered by allegations of police extortion, brutality, and indiscriminate arrests.

As a result, over the past few weeks, palpable tension has gripped Benin City and its environs, largely due to what many perceive as the unchecked actions of the law enforcement officers under the guise of combating cultism and cyber-crime.

In a statement by the Publicity Secretary of the Edo State PDP Caretaker Committee, Chris’ Nehikhare, noted the party believes it is the carte blanche given the law enforcement agencies in the fight against these menace that

is enabling the overreach, abuse of power, and gross violations of citizens’ rights.

“While we unequivocally condemn the attack on law enforcement officers — as it undermines public order and the rule of law — we must equally hold the government accountable for creating the environment that has bred fear, mistrust, and unrest among our people. Violence, from any quarter, is unacceptable and does not reflect the values of a peaceful and law-abiding society that Edo State is known for.

ening enforcement systems by enhancing legal accountability, improving data collection, and ensuring penalties are enforced, expanding survivor support services that are accessible, holistic, and sustainably financed, institutionalizing coordination mechanisms through structured roles, guidelines, and interagency collaboration.

“Laws are only as powerful as their implementation. A decade after the VAPP Act, we must move from intention to action - from passage to protection. This data gives us the clarity we need to build a safer, more just Nigeria or all.”

‘Act

girls in rural areas.

“Stay in school, excel in your studies, and believe in your ability to achieve great things,” the first lady advised the students in attendance.

Earlier, in his remarks, Minister of State for Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, hailed the AGILE expansion as a milestone in the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

Alausa stressed that education was not only a fundamental right but also a national security priority.

“Every textbook is a building block for peace, every school meal an act of justice, and every trained teacher a guardian of our shared future,” he said.

The minister detailed the federal government’s efforts to accelerate education reform.

According to him, within 11 months, the ministry has shifted from planning to action, with initiatives such as the N2 billion School Improvement Programme across all states, N20 billion allocated to teachers’ training, and over 100,000 school-based management committees empowered to oversee local governance.

More than 250,000 teachers received training in digital skills and inclusive pedagogy. Infrastructure-wise, over 3,000 classrooms were built or renovated, and more than five million instructional materials were distributed nationwide.

Alausa also highlighted the recently

launched N800 billion Hope Basic Education Reform project, which introduced a performance-based funding model to strengthen learning outcomes and reduce disparities in access and quality.

Speaking on behalf of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, described AGILE as a watershed moment for education in Nigeria.

Zulum stated that the programme’s combined investment of $1.2 billion—$500 million in original funding and an additional $700 million—made it one of the largest educational commitments in the country’s history.

“Already, over 8.6 million girls across 18 states are benefitting, along with 25 million others including teachers and community members,” Zulum said.

He projected a 3.5-fold increase in girls’ enrolment and a national improvement in school completion rates from 42 per cent to 52 per cent.

While celebrating progress, the governor acknowledged the continuing challenge of educating Nigeria’s estimated 10 million out-of-school girls.

“This situation is unacceptable. We must do more to change it,” he stated. Zulum outlined NGF’s interventions, including prioritising girl-child education, expanding gender-sensitive infrastructure, and supporting datadriven strategies to address disparities.

Naija’ Social Development Initiative Debuts in 7 States, FCT

A new initiative targeting social development and poverty reduction tagged ‘Act Naija’ has commenced in seven states namely Kogi, Delta, Enugu, Indo, Osun, Ekiti, Borno and the Federal Capital Territory.

The multi-dimensional social development initiative which is in collaboration with European Union, Brot, New Initiative for Social Development, NISD, and Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice, ANEEJ, will have a life span of 36 months.

Speaking yesterday in Abuja at the project kick-off conference management workshop, Deputy Executive Director of ANEEj, Leo Atakpu, said the key areas of the project will be centered on the building of resilience and inclusion

of democratic societies that aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals numbers 1, 16 and 17 which focuses on addressing poverty eradication and strong institutions.

He said the poverty figures in Nigeria are alarming and unfortunate and for this reason, “the 133 million Nigerians out of over 200 million are our key targets because they are living in multi-dimensional poverty. So, we must target the poorest of the poor to ensure that we pull them out of the poverty line.”

He said in terms of scope and target groups, Act Naija will reach out to over 2,120 individuals- targeting 149 civil society organisations, 30 community-based organisations and five persons with deep stability groups.

“Others are 1,000 women groups

members including 30 traders and farmers, 300 youth leaders, 60 media professionals, 80 government officials, private/sector international agencies and 45 internally displaced persons in Born State will be reached and targeted.”

To clear doubts and misconceptions, he revealed that for the choice of benefitting states, there were special considerations that were deployed to arrive at the choices which includes poverty, social protection laws, natural and man-made disasters amongst other indices.

His words: “They include poverty indicators, the collapse of the dam in Borno state which created some displacements and increased the banditry and terrorism impact was also considered for the choice of Borno State.

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio (behind), with children from different schools in Abuja, inside the Senate Chamber — to mark the 2025 Children’s Day celebration, yesterday

OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA

Thank you, Mr President for conver ting Federal Polytechnic Kabo to Federal University of Science and Technology Kabo

Iexpress our profound appreciation to the

Nigeria, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for assenting to the bill converting the Federal Polytechnic Kabo to Federal University of Science and Technology, Kabo, Kano State.

A correspondence from the President, assenting to the bill which I sponsored was read on the floor of the Senate during Tuesday’s sitting presided over by President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, GCON.

This reflects the President’s relentless quest to improving access to higher education and to fast track the development of our country by providing the necessary skills to our teeming youths.

Thank you once again, Mr. President, for your visionary leadership and commitment to fast track the development of our country.

We are grateful, your Excellency

Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria HIS EXCELLENCY

Signed: Senator (Dr) Barau I. Jibrin, CFR Deputy President of the Senate, Federal Republic of Nigeria First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament

Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE

Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com

08033025611 sms only

New Delta: Time to Queue Behind Gov Oborevwori

Victor Efeizomor writes on the need for concerned stakeholders in Delta state to rally round Governor sheriff Oborevwori as he settles down to business after collapsing all the People’s Democratic Party’s structure in the oil-rich state into the all Progressives Congress.

Former Military President, General Ibrahim Babangida once said, “At critical moments in the history of a nation, good leaders don’t sit on the fence; they take action, they take decisions, for posterity will not forgive them if they fail to do so”.

It is for this reason, and given the circumstance for the collapse of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) structures in Delta State, into the All Progressive Congress (APC) that Deltans, particularly, members of the PDP should back Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and other leaders of the party in the spirit of good leadership and followership to take Delta State to the next level.

Recall that the Delta State Governor, Hon Oborevwori, former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, and other key leaders of the PDP in the state officially defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) on 28 April, 2025.

The defection, according to party chieftains, followed wide consultations, and it was a collective decision among stakeholders across the state.

Surprisingly, majority of Deltans are not only happy about this political development, but it was randomly celebrated in the three senatorial districts of the state, as a strategic move in the best interest of governance and development in the state.

Also, the entire Delta political family have teamed up around Governor Oborevwori for the progress of the party and the state to sustain this recent political realignment, as key members of the administration, including lawmakers and political appointees have all defected from PDP to APC.

Former Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa said his defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) was a strategic move for the common good of Delta State, not driven by personal ambition.

He emphasized that the decision to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was made to connect Delta State to the Federal Government

in Abuja, potentially unlocking more opportunities for the state’s development.

Governor Oborevwori described the defection as a historic movement in the best interest of the state. He pledged to unify the party to ensure total victory for it in the coming elections.

The state’s Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Communication, Charles Aniagwu, justified the move, saying it was in response to the troubling events within the PDP at the national level.

“The State governor and party leaders have been consulting mildly, and the decision stems from those discussions. The political climate has shifted, and we needed to respond accordingly,” the commissioner added.

So, you can see the circumstance surrounding the critical decision of the leaders and critical stakeholders of the PDP in the state to empty the PDP structure into the APC.

Also in his remark on the defection, the pioneer chairman of the PDP in Delta State, Senator James Manager had said, “You have just seen the outcome of the consultations that have been going on

for some time. This is a unanimous agreement. As a riverine man, I can’t stay in a boat that is sinking (referring to the PDP). It’s time for collective change”.

The PDP Governors’ Forum, he said, met at Ibadan, where they resolved not to form coalitions with other parties. With only about 11 governors left, how can we challenge an incumbent president? That decision demoralized many PDP members. We have seen leadership instability, and the party is truly in crises”, Manager justified the Delta State PDP decision to defect to the APC.

It was, indeed a critical moment of decision, dictated by the circumstances starring the PDP on the face.

Would the leaders of the PDP in the state have sat on the fence and watch everybody in the “boat” sink? Will history be kind to our political leaders, the governor, Hon Oborevwori and other leaders of the party (PDP) if they had sat on the fence, and watched the ship of the party sink in the ‘sea’? This are the questions begging for answers.

Governor Oborevwori had demanded that, in order to show the seriousness of the decision of the PDP in the state to collapse its structures into the APC, himself, his deputy, members of the state’s Legislature, members of the State’s

Come to think of it, the need for Deltans, in whatever capacity to support and move with Governor o borevwori, who is now the political leader of the APC in the state is inevitable at this time, given the level of socio-economic, political and infrastructural development the state has witnessed in about two years of his administration, as encapsulated in his m . o .R.E Agenda

Executive Council, Local Government Chairmen and Councillors, all political office holders, appointees, anything and everything PDP in the state must move to the APC. Anything short of that would amount to disloyalty to the governor and the decision of other leaders of the PDP in the state.

This decision is important at this time of the political history of the state because, according to Charles Aniagwu, “As the taste of palm wine changes, so must the drinking pattern. The political climate has changed, and we needed to respond accordingly. This move will solidify development, unity and security in Delta State.

Politics is local, and collaboration with our people in the APC is necessary to preserve the progress we have made”.

Come to think of it, the need for Deltans, in whatever capacity to support and move with Governor Oborevwori, who is now the political leader of the APC in the state is inevitable at this time, given the level of socio-economic, political and infrastructural development the state has witnessed in about two years of his administration, as encapsulated in his M.O.R.E Agenda.

This development is visible in all the three senatorial districts of the state.

Governor Oborevwori himself recently captured it this way, “We have demonstrated our resolve to keep Delta State ahead of all indices of socio-economic development. We are investing massively in infrastructure renewal, upgrading our healthcare institutions, improving the learning climate in our schools, and assisting the poor and vulnerable through our socio-investment programmes”.

However, it is my hope and prayer that the old members of the APC and the new entrants from the PDP should put whatever differences they may have had in the past, and work together in synergy as a family in order to move Delta State to the next level.

-Efeizomor is media aide to Governor Oborevwori.

Governor sheriff oborevwori of Delta state (centre holding APC flag) at the formal defection of himself and other top government functionaries from the PDP to APC in Asaba... recently

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opinion@thisdaylive.com

RAISING THE ALARM ON STUDENT LOAN

Nigeria’s bid to democratise education will flounder without transparency and accountability, writes AYO OLODODO

page 21

ITU AT 160

Sadly, some 2.6bn people, mostly women and girls, are still unconnected, writes SONNY ARAGBA-AKPORE

See page 21

OKE EPIA pays tribute to Elumelu, economist, banker, and chairperson of the United Bank of Africa

HAIL TO TONY ELUMELU

The ‘last man standing’ chatter re-echoes in my head as I contemplate writing this piece. Not many will remember that Tony Elumelu was the first prominent businessman whom the then-presidentelect, Bola Tinubu, paid an open visit to days after the tension-soaked general elections were won and lost. As Tinubu alighted from the SUV that brought him to Tony’s palatial Lagos residence, the latter cheerfully bantered, hugged him warmly, and led him into an exclusive soiree. The short clip that soon circulated rapidly on social media revealed the deep connections between the two men that many were unaware of until that evening.

It is no surprise, therefore, that the Deltaborn magnate has been involved in some critical engagements, including foreign trips, with President Tinubu. He was part of the official delegation during the state visit to France last November, where he signed several lucrative business deals. Even the holy book says there is a time to sow and a time to reap. But Tony is a consistent sower. Little wonder that he is a regular reaper. However, it takes more than the mechanical metaphor of farming to make it and stay relevant in Nigeria. And I am not referring to the concept of luck here, although it cannot be discounted in the treacherous game of life. I am talking about the application of the right combination of acumen, perspicacity and strategy. I am talking about the prescience of preparation and the divinity of opportunity. Just before you misread me: I am not talking about the perfection of systems, processes, and personalities —the triple maladies that are at the heart of Nigeria’s development challenge, including the conduct of elections.

But let’s get back to Tony. The fact that he belongs to the billionaire class of top businessmen in Africa is not news. Neither is the fact that he is a frontline figure in the philanthropy fad familiar to that class. Nor that he is festooned in the inner circle of corporatism that stealthily manoeuvres the political chessboard in Nigeria, much of Africa, and elsewhere around the world. What remains unobtrusive and largely unspoken about Tony is how he brings a uniquely characteristic intellectual acuity, intentional internationality, and a suave sense of style that sets him apart from the rest.

Tony is a people person. I do not refer to his traditional trade craft skills, which define much of his rise from humble beginnings in retail banking to a conglomerate across multiple industries. I also do not mean it in the sense of a political juggernaut who rides the rostrum of mass proselytising. Neither do I refer to the uncanny ease with which he connects with friends, associates, and acquaintances, nor his graceful benevolence in and out of season. That is a story for another day. What I want to highlight here is the massive social and economic capital he is accumulating online and offline, nationally and globally.

Earlier this month, the President of Gabon, Brice Nguema, conferred the prestigious national honour – the Commander in the National Order of Gabonese Merit – on Tony Elumelu in recognition of his contribution to Africa’s development. “Tony Elumelu is not only a visionary entrepreneur but also a committed friend of our nation, Gabon,” the president said at the conferment ceremony, adding: “He has consistently shown that investing in Africa is not just good business. It is the key to our shared future. We honour a man whose actions continue to empower young Africans and inspire nations.”

This award aligns with similar national, continental, and global recognitions Tony has received in recent years, including the Time 100 Most Influential People in the World by Time magazine, which was awarded in 2020. The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), founded in 2010, has reportedly funded over 18,500 startups across Africa's 54 countries and catalysed a digital ecosystem of over one million Africans with a $100 million fund to identify, mentor, and train young entrepreneurs. Like a golden fish with no hiding place, Tony was recently appointed to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Advisory Council on Entrepreneurship and Growth. He now has multiple multilateral and bilateral channels to preach his unique gospel of Africapitalism and influence global attention to home-grown solutions to Africa’s challenges.

Tony Elumelu is the Founder and Group Chairman of Heirs Holdings, a conglomerate with diversified business interests, including healthcare, insurance, and energy. He is also the Chairman of Transcorp Group and the United Bank for Africa (UBA). His prominent profile and increasing international acclaim place him among a unique class of billionaires. And he has taken those highvalue assets online. The way the Tony Elumelu machine utilises social networking on the internet suggests a deliberate design to harness the loyalty and following of the young, youthful, and futurefocused. For what purpose, precisely, is the question that remains up in the air. He is undoubtedly not connecting with Gen Z and the Alphas on Instagram and TikTok solely to showcase his opulent influence, ‘fine boy vibes,’ and ‘stylish steez,’ although there is no question that he enjoys rocking the trend and embracing hashtags that betray the simplicity of his personality. After all, what is life without some selfexulting indulgences? Tony is certainly not on social media to create content that excites algorithms or benefit from clicks, comments, likes, and shares.

One thing, however, is clear: Like in his vast business empire, Tony is strategic and visionary about his online engagements. He is deliberate about personal branding, storytelling, and community building. He is adept at using social channels to connect with diverse demographics, regardless of their ideologies, idiosyncrasies, and indulgences. He ensures that no one is left behind. Depending on where you meet him online, you cannot help but get the impression of a billionaire businessman on a globalising mission of expansion driven by indigenous ingenuity, intellectual interpolations,

and a crusade for social good. However, he is careful to infuse a youthful heart and occasionally display dedication to his family, friends, and work colleagues. The narrative Tony is telling is that success can be influential yet not intoxicating; impactful but not enervating; and honourable yet humbling, humane, and human. One can be lavish yet large-hearted, stylish, and inspiring. Although a media-friendly person and delight of journalists, he has chosen to tell his stories precisely the way he wants them, using the voice and tone that befits the occasion and audience. To buttress this point, I have taken the liberty to cull this post made on his LinkedIn page on the morning of May 19th 2025: “I was in Paris last week. Another opportunity to show Africapitalism in action — my belief that Africa’s private sector holds the key to our continent’s transformation. I met with René-Laurent Alciator, who leads UBA’s presence in France. Paris is an increasingly important hub for UBA’s European and particularly Francophone African business. Our presence in Paris and eleven French speaking African countries, our US dollar clearing in New York and FX business in London give UBA a unique position in serving clients in Europe and Africa. I joined other leaders at the 2025 Steering Committee Meeting of the Council for Inclusive Capitalism, at the invitation of Lynn Forester de Rothschild. Her unwavering commitment to building an ecosystem anchored in fairness and shared prosperity is one that resonates with me. My advocacy highlighted two things: No global conversation should take place without Africa at the table; The private sector — not only in Africa, but globally — must lead in balancing the inequalities existing in our world. Businesses cannot focus solely on profit or shareholder value, we must embrace social impact – to do well and to do good, simultaneously for a greater good. Governments alone cannot solve the developmental needs of a country. This is why I call for stronger private-public sector collaboration — partnerships that catalyse employment, drive entrepreneurship, and empower our youth and women across the continent. I congratulate Lynn once again and the Inclusive Capitalism initiative for the work they are doing in bridging the economic inequality gap by championing access to finance, promoting inclusion, and driving youth empowerment. I also extend heartfelt appreciation to my dear friend, Maurice Levy, Chairman, Publicis, who hosted a networking dinner in my honour with Lynn Rothschild. It was truly an engaging time with the private sector leaders in France, all united by a shared commitment to transformative impact and economic prosperity. I also commend the CEO of UBA Group Paris, René-Laurent, for the great work the team is doing, facilitating opportunities between France and the African continent.” Examining how this same event was narrated on Instagram perfectly illustrates the point I have made about the deliberate strategy of his social networking endeavours. Online and offline, Tony Elumelu is the master of his craft, taking his destiny in his hands and appearing to leave nothing to chance. This raises the inevitable question: Having conquered the world of business and economy, what does Tony want? To put it in local Nigerian parlance, wetin Tony dey find sef?

Epia is a journalist, policy influencer, and thought leader. He writes from Abuja

Nigeria’s bid to democratise education will flounder without transparency and accountability, writes AYO OLODODO

RAISING THE ALARM ON STUDENT LOAN

In Nigeria, when institutions become complicit, and the system itself begins to lose the trust of its beneficiaries, it often takes an unlikely hero to sound the alarm. A few weeks ago, a friend shared a story about his niece, a student at a federal university in the North Central region, who had applied for a student loan under the much-touted Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND). She was excited when her application was approved—until she learned that the funds supply disbursed to her were never credited into her account. Instead, the university had quietly deducted “administrative fees” and delayed notifications, leaving her stranded.

This is not an isolated case. Across the country, particularly in the North Central states—Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, and Plateau— thousands of students faced similar challenges. And just when public frustration was boiling over, the National Orientation Agency (NOA), known more for its grassroots campaigns than high-stakes policy interventions, stepped in.

The Student Loans (Access to Higher Education) Act of 2024 promised a lifeline for undergraduates struggling with tuition fees. Under NELFUND’s stewardship, over ₦56.85 billion was reportedly disbursed in tuition and upkeep allowances for more than 550,000 students. But as the rollout progressed, stories of mismanagement grew louder. Without transparency, reports emerged of tertiary institutions withholding funds or charging hidden fees ranging from ₦3,500 to ₦30,000 per student.

In this climate, NOA’s Director-General, Lanre Issa-Onilu, took the unprecedented step of issuing a public alert. His agency’s community-based monitors, deployed nationwide, gathered firsthand complaints from affected students. This grassroots approach unearthed a troubling pattern: several universities either misappropriated the funds or failed to inform students of disbursements.

While the North West region reportedly received about ₦5.84 billion in disbursed loans, the North Central zone received a much lower ₦2.53 billion, covering 25,859 students across 18 institutions. Disparities in allocations and management became glaring, hinting at possible regional biases or inefficiencies. In many cases,

universities claimed to have remitted loans to students but couldn’t provide verifiable evidence. NOA’s whistleblowing effort drew attention not only to NELFUND but also to complicit universities and financial intermediaries. NELFUND’s initial response—insisting that the disbursement figures included funds for prior programs—did little to calm public anger. The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) launched a formal investigation into the scheme. Early findings suggested that of the ₦100 billion earmarked for the program, only about ₦28.8 billion was traceable to student beneficiaries. The remaining ₦71.2 billion was shrouded in opacity.

Meanwhile, the Federal Ministry of Education, led by Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, convened emergency meetings with vice-chancellors of implicated institutions and NELFUND officials. The government promised corrective actions, including harmonising disbursement protocols and introducing stringent monitoring mechanisms.

For an agency often overshadowed by regulatory behemoths, NOA’s role in this saga is a study of the power of grassroots vigilance. While its primary mandate revolves around public enlightenment and orientation, its rapid response to student grievances demonstrated how proactive governance can restore confidence in public institutions.

One could argue that without the intervention of the NOA, thousands of Nigerian students, particularly those in underserved regions like North Central, might have been left at the mercy of bureaucratic inertia and institutional corruption.

As investigations unfold and reforms take shape, the broader lesson remains clear. Nigeria’s ambition to democratise education will flounder without transparency and accountability. The NOA’s whistleblowing isn’t just a story of an agency saving the day. It’s a clarion call for systemic reform, reminding us that safeguarding public trust is a collective responsibility.

If the government and stakeholders heed this call, future disbursements will be more transparent and restore faith in the institutions designed to empower Nigeria’s youth.

Olododo writes from Abuja

Sadly, some 2.6bn people, mostly women and girls, are still unconnected, writes SONNY ARAGBA-AKPORE

ITU

AT 160

The International Telecommunications Union (ITU)turned 160 years on May 17,2025. While it rolled out drums in Geneva,Switzerland headquarters and Paris,France where it began,the multilateral agency for telecommunications development is worried.

2.6billion people are unconnected to the internet.

Of billion people around the world that are still unconnected, the majority are women and girls. It is estimated that 189 million less women were using the Internet than men in 2024, with gaps in access, affordability and digital skills hindering participation.

And as part of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, ITU highlighted the need to ensure that women and girls worldwide can benefit from and contribute to the globe's digital transformation.

Since 1963, the ITU has ensured fair and reliable access to satellite orbits for ITU Member States. Space is now home to satellites from 91 countries that provide services to billions of people.

In 1976, ITU published a technical standard allowing computer networks to work together, laying the foundation for the modern Internet.

ITU publishes over 300 open standards every year, making emerging technologies safer, more reliable, and more impactful.

In the decade since ITU's 150th anniversary, global connectivity has doubled.

Today, two-thirds of the world's population is online, benefiting from the opportunities connectivity brings.

Since 1906 – and now with 80 per cent of global goods currently transported by sea – ITU has provided rules and frequency resources that help ships communicate and navigate reliably and securely.

With 99 per cent of all Internet traffic travelling through undersea cables, ITU promotes and facilitates efforts to enhance the resilience of this critical infrastructure.

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) commemorated 160 years with dedication to connect.

The world on Saturday, May 17,2025 during the yearly World Telecommunication and Information Society Day thought only about the uncertainty in connectivity for 2.6billion population.

“For 160 years, ITU has brought the world together to ensure technology benefits all of humanity," said ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin. “In this milestone year, let's reaffirm our commitment to building a shared digital future where no one is left behind, and where everyone can thrive."

Since its founding on May 17,1865, ITU has been at the forefront of technology innovation, fostering multilateralism, social and economic growth, security and safety.

From telegraphy and the first radio signals, to satellites, mobile phones and the latest developments in AI and quantum computing, ITU inspires innovation through cooperation as it works for a world where everyone, everywhere is connected.

This year's World Telecommunication and Information Society Day holds special significance with the 160th anniversary. Since 1865, ITU has helped shape every major advance in communication: from the telegraph to the telephone, from satellites to the mobile phone, and from the Internet to artificial intelligence and more.

We have seen a great deal of progress in 16 decades with more people connected than ever before, yet one-third of humanity remains offline.

World Telecommunication and Information Society Day is a moment to reflect on the work still ahead.

This year – and every year – we need to ensure that everyone, especially women and girls, benefits fully from the opportunities brought by technology.

ITU Secretary General said

“I thank ITU's 194 Member States and over 1,000 organizations from the private sector, academia, the technical community that work every day to ensure that the technologies shaping our shared digital future serve everyone, everywhere.”

Digital technologies have the power to accelerate progress across every sector of society, yet that potential remains out of reach for many. Of the 2.6 billion people still unconnected, the majority are women and girls. Gaps in access and affordability of the internet and digital devices, as well as limited digital skills, continue to hinder the participation of women and girls in today’s economy and in shaping tomorrow’s digital solutions. Bridging this divide is essential to unlocking new pathways for economic growth, innovation, and sustainable development.

World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) 2025 highlights the pressing need to advance digital gender equality, so that women and girls everywhere can also benefit from and contribute to digital transformation.

As the world marks 30 years since the Beijing Platform for Action, WTISD-25 is a critical moment to accelerate collective action that ensures digital transformation delivers opportunity for everyone, everywhere.

Aragba-Akpore is a member of THISDAY Editorial Board

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

FATALITIES ON THE ROADS

Regulators should do more to contain the scourge

That no fewer than 1,593 Nigerians lost their lives in road traffic crashes (RTC) during the first quarter of 2025 is disturbing. Although the number of these RTCs decreased by one per cent (from 2,674 to 2,650) when compared to the same period in 2024, there has been a rise in both fatalities and injuries. The number of people killed surged by 8.3 per cent, from 1,471 in Q1 2024 to 1,593 in Q1 2025, according to figures released by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC). In addition, the number of injured persons rose by 7.4 per cent, with 9,298 injuries recorded in Q1 2025 compared to 8,659 in the corresponding quarter of 2024.

Unfortunately, to many Nigerians, death by RTC becomes news only when prominent citizens are involved or casualty figures in specific incidents are high. Yet, there’s hardly a day when some families would not be thrown into mourning because of these road accidents that claim thousands of people every year. Recent reports credited to the FRSC indicate that vehicles commonly involved in these fatal crashes include commercial buses, articulated trucks and trailers. Since only a certain class of Nigerians patronise such vehicles, that perhaps explains why the authorities do not pay much attention to the victims. But we cannot continue to lose lives needlessly.

also vulnerable to high-impact accidents that occur almost daily. Sign-light and route violations, wrongful overtaking, mechanical failures such as brake malfunctions have also significantly contributed to the fatalities.

A reckless driving culture occasioned by excessive speeding, making calls or texting on cell phones while on the wheel, drunk driving and poorly maintained vehicles are some of the factors that are making Nigerian roads a theatre of blood

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

The FRSC has in recent years also identified the behaviour of road users as one of the reasons for high fatalities when RTC occurs. A reckless driving culture occasioned by excessive speeding, making calls or texting on cell phones while on the wheel, drunk driving and poorly maintained vehicles are some of the factors that are making Nigerian roads a theatre of blood. Vehicles that carry passengers beyond their capacity as well as trailers overloaded with people and livestock are

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA

GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE

DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI

SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI

CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI

DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO

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

Letters to the Editor

There is also the issue of seat belts which many don’t use. Certainly, seat belts are not mere ornaments. They are standard safety equipment of every modern car to cushion the impact of a car crash on the occupants, particularly the driver and the passenger in the front seat. Indeed, many modern cars are equipped with intelligent seat belt reminders. Despite the enlightenment campaigns on the danger of these habits, many road users scarcely pay attention. The FRSC once promised to open a 'Shame Register' which would be a sort of black book for notorious traffic offenders regardless of their status in the society. Nothing has ever been heard about that. The state of the roads is another major cause of accidents. Both the World Health Organisation (WHO) statistics and that of the FRSC place Nigeria as one of the countries with very high road fatalities. Nigeria’s total highway length of 194,394 kilometers is rated second worst in the world. While we commend initiatives like the Nigeria Road Safety Strategy (2021-2030) and the National Crash Reporting Information System (NACRIS) by the FRSC, more should be done to prevent the needless deaths on our roads.

From the WHO estimate of deaths on Nigerian roads to be 2.82 per cent of the global total to figures from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the fatality rate is undesirable. More unfortunate is that victims are often people in the prime of their productive years. We urge the FRSC to collaborate with other stakeholders, including the road transport unions on this issue. We must halt the growing number of these avoidable tragedies on our roads.

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.

THE FORGOTTEN ROADS OF LAGOS

The condition of some inner roads in Lagos is nothing short of disappointing. These roads, which connect homes to major highways, are heartbreaking. It is as though the people who use them every day don’t matter.

The truth is, this is an issue particular to all states in Nigeria. So, whatever I am going to say applies to all other states. The situation in Lagos might even be way better than all the other states, but I want to talk about Lagos because it is where I reside. It impacts me directly.

To be clear, there are areas where inner roads are in good condition, others have been reconstructed, and some are undergoing construction, at least from a few conversations I have had. Credit must go to those responsible for the progress. But this piece is not about those.

This is about inner roads that remain neglected, particularly in areas like Ajao Estate, Ejigbo, Okeafa, Alimosho, Ikotun, and environs. These are not just obscure parts of Lagos, hundreds of thousands of people live there. They work and do business there. Yet, in too many corners, the roads have muddy puddles, uneven surfaces, and look more like war zones. Do we even realize the damage these roads do? Mechanics

have become more familiar than friends, all while incomes are already stretched thin by the harsh economy. And where are the councillors of these areas in all of this? What are our local government chairmen in these areas doing, if anything? They seem to have gone on an extended holiday. I think it’s time we paid closer attention to local government elections, which by the way is happening in July in Lagos. The people we put in these offices wield real power to improve our day-to-day lives, or ignore us completely. Why does it feel like inner roads fall outside their radar? They now receive direct allocations, so what’s the excuse?

The Lagos State Public Works Corporation also needs to step up its efforts. Are they even present in these areas, because their presence is barely noticeable? The inner roads are not just bad, they are not motorable. And during the rainy season? They become a soggy, slippery mess and a very serious health risk.

See, I think we underestimate the power of good inner roads to ease traffic. If these roads were in better condition, more people would confidently use them as alternatives to the main roads. Traffic would be spread out. Commutes would

be shorter. Life would be easier. But because these inner roads are unusable, everyone is forced to clog up the same few major highways every morning and evening. For example, the traffic from Canoe to Airport Road is often a frustrating crawl. It could be significantly eased if the inner connecting roads in and around Ajao Estate, Oke-Afa, and beyond were in good condition. People would have more route options. And let us not forget the security risks. When roads are abandoned (and poorly lit), they become breeding grounds for crime. Small businesses also suffer as delivery riders refuse to enter certain areas, and customers stay away. How many times have you heard, “Oga, I no fit enter that road” while booking an Uber? It’s a common refrain, and it shouldn't be.

The Lagos State government must start treating inner roads as a critical part of development, not an afterthought. People live on these roads, and they deserve better.

Fixing inner roads is not just about cars. It’s about health, safety, and dignity. It’s about time

Chiechefulam Ikebuiro, chiechefulamikebuiro@gmail.com

Kayode Tokede

It has emerged that a total of 30 companies listed on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) paid the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), and other revenue agencies a sum of N919.5billion as tax in first quarter of 2025. This represents a significant increase of 276 per cent when compared to N244.71 billion paid in first quarter (Q1) of 2024.

The 30 firms cut across the banking sector, cement manufacturing companies, Fast Consumer Moving Goods (FCMG), power companies, Oil & gas, telecommunication, among other critical sectors of the nation’s economy.

Aside from paying the statutory 30 per cent income tax, companies operating in Nigeria are meant to pay Education tax, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) tax and Nigeria Police Trust Fund levy.

The tertiary education tax is imposed on every Nigerian company at the rate of 2.5 per cent of the assessable profit for each year of assessment, while the Act that established the Nigeria Police Trust Fund was meant to receive funds from a levy of 0.005 per cent of the net profit of companies operating a business in Nigeria and other various sources, which will be utilized for the training and welfare of personnel of the Nigerian Police Force.

Extracts from the companies’

Q1 2025 unaudited results released by the NGX revealed that Seplat Energy paid the highest tax expenses, followed by Dangote Cement Plc.

Seplat Energy reported N279.26 billion ($184.11million) tax expenses in Q1 2025, representing an increase of 162 per cent from N106 billion ($71.22million) reported in Q1 2024, while Dangote Cement announced N102.73 billion tax expenses in Q1 2025, up by 91.2 per cent from N53.73 billion in Q1 2024.

According to a Seplat statement, “The income tax expense of $184.1 million (Q1 2024: $71.2 million) includes a current tax charge of $215.0 million (Q1 2024: $13.9 million) and a deferred tax credit of $30.9 million (Q1 2024: $57.3 million charge).

“The higher tax charge in the

income statement reflects the current tax due in SEPNU. For the offshore assets, we expect the current tax charge to moderate overtime as the pool of available capital allowances increases as we increase our investments across the asset base.”

For Dangote Cement, it declared N88.09 billion current tax in Q1 2025 from N28.81 billion reported in Q1 2024, while its deferred tax expense dropped to N14.6 billion in Q1 2025 from N24.9 billion in Q1 2024.

Both Seplat Energy and Dangote Cement declared a sum of N2.22 trillion revenue in Q1 2025, representing an increase of 105 per cent from N1.09 trillion declared in Q1 2024.

THISDAY learnt that Cadbury

Nigeria Plc, Nestle Nigeria Plc, MTN Nigeria Communications Plc, Nigerian Breweries Plc and International Breweries Plc that had tax credit in Q1 2024 due to foreign exchange losses, paid tax to FIRS, among other agencies in Q1 2025.

For instance, MTN Nigeria Communication that declared N182.99 billion tax credit in Q1 2024 paid N68.98billion tax in Q1 2025, while Nestle Nigeria paid N20.98billion tax in Q1 2025 from tax credit of N53.4billion in Q1 2024.

Nigerian Breweries paid tax expense of N24.7billion in Q1 2025 from tax credit of 13.49billion in Q1 2024.

In addition, International breweries declared N5.69billion tax expenses in Q1 2025 from

tax credit oof N28.96billion in Q1 2024, while Cadbury Nigeria posted N2.56billion tax expenses in Q1 2025 from N3.13billion tax credit declared in Q1 2024.

The five multinational companies recovered from 2023 & 2024 financial losses to declare N367.4 billion profit before tax in Q1 2025 when compared to N937.17 billion loss before tax declared in Q1 2024. These five multinational companies experienced substantial foreign exchange losses in 2023 & 20024 financial year, primarily

Ebere Nwoji

The National Pension Commission (PenCom), has issued a directive to all Licensed Pension Fund Operators (LPFOs), comprising Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) and Pension Fund Custodians (PFCs), prohibiting them from transacting any business with service providers and vendors that do not remit pensions for their employees as evidenced by a Pension Clearance Certificate issued by PenCom.

Section 2 of the PRA 2014 mandates all employers in the public and private sectors, including Federal, State, and Local Governments to participate in the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) and remit pension contributions not later than seven working days after salary payments.

Despite continuous engagement and enforcement measures, a significant number of employers remain non-compliant with this legal obligation. PenCom intensified its regulatory actions

by appointing recovery agents (RAs) to audit defaulters, recover outstanding contributions, and enforce sanctions.

According to the commission, all LPFOs shall ensure that any vendor or service provider they engage presents a valid Pension Clearance Certificate (PCC) issued by the Commission as a condition for entering into or renewing service level or technical agreements.

The commission said LPFOs must also ensure that investments were made only with companies

and financial institutions that required PCCs from their own vendors and service providers.

It stated, “Every counterparties must execute a compliance attestation, confirming that it enforces the PCC requirement across its vendor network. This attestation must be updated annually and included in LPFO investment documentation.”

Giving further directive, the commission said, “Counterparties must also submit valid PCCs from their own vendors/service

providers before engaging in any investment transaction with LPFOs, including those involving commercial papers, bond issuances, and bank placements.”

The commission said the LPFOs have been directed to integrate these requirements into their internal policies, vendor selection processes, due diligence procedures, governance, and investment risk assessment frameworks, adding that the Parent companies, subsidiaries, holding companies and institutional shareholders of LPFOs should

possess valid Pension Clearance Certificate (PCC) and ensure that every vendor and service provider engaged by them complies with the requirement of the PCC as a precondition for entering into any service level or technical agreement. The commission further said the requirement for compliance attestation was also applicable to the categories adding that, “a six month transition window from the date of issuing the above directives to LPFOs has been granted to allow full implementation.”

REWARD FOR SHAREHOLDERS…

L-R: Chairman, Statutory Audit Committee, Wema Bank Plc, Joe Annosikeh; Company Secretary/General Counsel, Johnson Lebile; Chairman Board of Directors, Dr

Olorunshola; Managing Director/CEO, Moruf Oseni and Deputy Managing Director, Oluwole Ajimisinmi at the Wema Bank 2024

FIRS Engages Stakeholders on E-invoicing Initiative to Boost Tax Compliance

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), has taken a

significant step towards enhancing tax compliance in Nigeria with the launch of a stakeholder engagement forum on its

e-invoicing initiative.

The forum, which was held in Lagos brought together representatives from the

manufacturing and oil and gas sectors to discuss the implementation of the e-invoicing system.

Expert Urges Finance Professionals to Adopt Strategic Mindset amidst Uncertainty

Sunday Ehigiator

Finance expert and author, Ayobami Ishola, has emphasised the need for finance professionals to shift their mindset from traditional numbercrunching to strategic advisory roles, as a crucial necessity for companies to thrive in today’s complex and data-driven business environment.

Ishola made this assertion during the recent launch of her debut book, “The Strategic Finance Business Partner,” which explores ways finance professionals can stay ahead of the curve by adopting data, storytelling, and business acumen to influence decisions.

According to Ishola, finance professionals must move away from traditional finance roles and become strategic advisors, providing insights that create long-

term value for their organisations.

This shift, she noted, “is a business imperative for companies aiming to thrive in an increasingly complex and data-driven world.”

The book, which contains 100 pages and 11 chapters, provides practical examples and real-life scenarios that business professionals can implement to improve their skills. It also highlights the importance of emerging technologies like Power BI, SAP, and advanced Excel in financial analysis.

“It’s a book that could be read by CEOs, CFOs, finance professionals, even business professionals, commercial leaders. It has a lot of strategies in it that can help organisations grow, basically.

“It would help finance professionals grow in their careers and secure a seat at the

table because you’re going to be strategic. You won’t just be talking about numbers, but you’ll be talking about how you can support the business,” Ishola told journalists.

In his address, the chairman of the launch, and Chief Financial Officer of Bell Oil and Gas Limited, Onyia Azuka, revealed that the book is “very practical”, stressing that it teaches how to understand strategic financial management, grasping how financial decisions can align with broader business goals.

Azuka, citing some of the practical nuggets in the book, stated that using dashboards is not only essential for executive decision-making, they also show what operation is doing.

“Each chapter in the book concludes with actionable steps that you can implement to create a more robust job flow as you

apply your work. And, of course, you cannot be a strategic business model without communication, relationship building and a lot of emotional intelligence. These softer skills are very key for finance,” Azuka said.

In his review, a Finance Expert based in the United States, Adedotun Adesile, referred to the book as “a valuable resource that distils the experiences of industry leaders into actionable insights.”

Adesile stressed that the book’s approachable writing style, clear structure, and use of relatable examples are what set it apart from a regular finance text.

He added, “It is a hands-on guide that offers practical advice, rather than just theoretical concepts, making it easy to apply the lessons learned.”

According to Lead Consultant for the FIRS, Sadiq Arogundade, the e-invoicing system is designed to automate tax compliance and reduce the effort required for proper bookkeeping.

Arogundade said further that the system is designed to automate tax compliance and reduce the effort required for proper bookkeeping.

“We have built an electronic invoicing system for taxpayers and businesses to manage their invoicing processes. But we need to ensure that we have all use cases, all feedback, all comments, and concerns of taxpayers handled while we are building the system,” he said.

Arogundade explained that the primary objective of stakeholder engagement is to gather requirements from taxpayers and businesses to refine the e-invoicing system. He further elaborated on the benefits of the e-invoicing system, saying, “When you automate workflows, it will reduce the effort to do proper bookkeeping.”

“So, we want to be part of that bookkeeping lifecycle

Court Empowers Employees to Seek Redress for Non-Remittance of Their Pension Contributions

Ebere Nwoji

Employers who fail to remit or under-remit pension contributions of their employees are strictly liable under Nigerian law, and face limited legal defenses when such matters are brought before the courts.

This assertion was made by Hon. Justice Olufunke Yemi Anuwe of the National Industrial Court.

Anuwe, who made this assertion

in her presentation at the Fourth Forum of Company Secretaries and Legal Advisers in the Pension Industry, organised by the National Pension Commission (PenCom) in Abuja, noted that one of the most frequently litigated issues in the pension sector involved the nonremittance or under-remittance of pension contributions by employers.

“Nigerian courts have consistently upheld the rights of PenCom and pension contributors

to initiate legal proceedings to recover such funds. Statutory penalties and interest have also been enforced to ensure compliance,” she stated.

She further said that the courts recognised Pencom’s regulatory authority as central to the administration of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), adding that courts generally defer to the Commission’s technical expertise, and expects it to act within the limits

of its statutory mandate.

Justice Anuwe reminded participants that under Section 210 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), no person entitled to pension or gratuity under any law shall be denied or deprived of such benefits. “It is a constitutional right,” she affirmed, “and pensioners must be paid for the service they have rendered.”

Addressing jurisdictional

Stakeholders Seek Increased Support for Tech Innovators in Nigeria

Stakeholders in the investment sector of the economy have stated that lack of capital and coaching are still the major challenges hindering tech innovators on the continent.

Speaking at the World Product Day held in Lagos, Executive Director, Innovative Africa Foundation, Tina Mbachu, said coaching and capital are still the missing links critical for tech innovators to attain their full potential.

She advocated for stronger investment in grassroots innovation as there is an urgent need for stakeholders to support young entrepreneurs in developing context-driven solutions to scale those innovations globally.

Mbachu stressed that the broader purpose of World Product Day is more than a celebration of products, as it’s a movement for meaningful change and to

spotlight young innovators, real people building real solutions to real problems.

She remarked that the mission of her foundation, Innovate Africa, is to empower the next generation of African changemakers.

“Today’s hackathon is not just about code. It’s about change. Our mission is simple but powerful—support young Africans to find problems in their communities, build local solutions, and scale those solutions across the continent,” she noted.

She addressed the difficulties many early-stage founders face in taking ideas from concept to impact, particularly due to a lack of knowledge and tools.

“A lot of founders have the idea, but they don’t have the tools. They don’t know how to test, validate, or even ask if

•

•

concerns, Anuwe noted that the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN) remained the appropriate court for pensionrelated disputes, adding that judicial precedents have affirmed the NICN’s exclusive jurisdiction as established by the Constitution and the National Industrial Court Act. This consolidation has helped streamline pension adjudication under one specialised court,” she added.

Commenting on the broader role of the judiciary, she noted that courts have been instrumental in resolving disputes over gratuities, accrued rights, and the transition between old and new pension systems.

so that we can take the tax elements of that invoice and do the job for them”, he noted, adding that this would not only reduce the administrative burden on businesses but also ensure accurate and timely tax compliance.

Acting Director of Tax Automation at FIRS, Mike Adoga, highlighted the potential of the e-invoicing system to deliver real-time transaction visibility across sectors, thereby boosting tax compliance.

“This is about the electronic, real-time exchange of invoices between businesses and their customers, powered by FIRS technology,” he said. He noted further that the benefits include: transparency, accuracy, and efficiency.

The e-invoicing system is expected to capture Value Added Tax (VAT) at 7.5% rate, as well as other tax categories, including withholding tax, company income tax, and personal income tax.

Adoga noted that the system would help to close revenue gaps, strengthen compliance, and align Nigeria’s tax processes with global standards. “Withholding tax operates like an advance payment on tax liabilities,” he added. “Information about such transactions will also flow through the e-invoicing ecosystem.”

While acknowledging ongoing challenges, Adoga emphasised the importance of stakeholder engagement in demystifying e-invoicing and addressing misconceptions. “Many people have heard of electronic invoicing, but misconceptions still exist,” he said. “These engagements are helping close that gap.”

Adoga encouraged businesses to take advantage of the system to improve tax compliance and reduce disputes.

Oluchi Chibuzor

Mary Nnah

Oluwayemisi

Annual General Meeting Held in Lagos… recently

Ololade Majekodunmi: Tinubu Administration Rekindling Hope in Nigeria’s CTG Sector

Ms Ololade Majekodunmi, National Coordinator of the Nigeria Cotton Society and Managing Director of House of Dorcas Integrated Services (HDI), has applauded the Tinubu administration’s efforts to revitalise the Cotton, Textile and Garment (CTG) sector. In a frank assessment of recent policy moves, the leading player in the corporate world and strong advocate of the CTG industry, described the government’s twin strategies — the creation of a dedicated CTG Development Board and the N90 billion agribusiness plan — as “bold and strategic,” capable of closing longstanding gaps in the industry if implemented with discipline and inclusivity. Precious Ugwuzor brings excerpts

What are your thoughts on the twin strategies rolled out by NEC to transform the CTG sector?

The twin strategies — the establishment of the Cotton, Textile and Garment Development Board and the N90 billion agribusiness/livestock plan — are bold, strategic interventions. They represent a coordinated approach to tackle both upstream production and industrial processing challenges. It’s a long-overdue move that can finally address structural issues in the CTG sector if implemented with discipline and inclusivity.

From a policy perspective, these decisions reflect a government that is listening and willing to act. As someone directly involved in field-level coordination with the Nigeria Cotton Society and HDI, I see the gaps this move intends to close: financing, industrial linkages, coordination, and structure. NEC’s endorsement of both the CTG board and the agribusiness plan signals political will, which has often been the missing link.

Do you think the plans are holistic enough?

The plans reflect a more integrated view than we’ve seen in decades — linking agriculture, industry, trade, and innovation. However, “holistic” requires consistent consultation, data-driven execution, and state-level alignment. I would say this is a strong foundation, but further work is needed to ensure last-mile impact — especially around MSMEs, climate adaptation, and youth employment.

We also need to tie this vision into Nigeria’s broader manufacturing revival and food security architecture. Importantly, emphasis must be placed on gender equity and rural revitalisation. The inclusion of livestock under the same strategic plan is also smart — as it allows for crosssectoral interventions, especially in areas like animal feed, cottonseed utilisation, and value-added exports.

Why do you think previous efforts by other administrations failed?

Previous efforts lacked policy continuity, suffered from weak stakeholder engagement, and were often fragmented. Importantly, many failed to address power infrastructure, smuggling, and access to affordable finance. Without these systemic issues being tackled head-on, reforms couldn’t take root.

Additionally, implementation frameworks were often poorly monitored. Policies looked good on paper, but execution was weak. In some cases, there was duplication of efforts, insufficient data, and a lack of coordination among ministries and parastatals. When you do not monitor, you cannot enforce or learn, and that has been the story of CTG for decades.

Are there guarantees that these initiatives will succeed?

Success is a function of leadership, accountability, and inclusive implementation. What gives me confidence this time is the body language of the present government, particularly the leadership of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, who has demonstrated consistent commitment to fulfilling the promises outlined in his Renewed Hope manifesto.

His focus on economic diversification and industrial revival is being matched

by deliberate action. This agenda is more than a slogan — it is birthing the Nigeria we have all been praying for, and I see this happening with each bold step.

The approval of this initiative under the guidance of His Excellency, Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, shows seriousness at the very top. Likewise, His Excellency, Senator John Owan Enoh, the Honourable Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, has shown hands-on leadership and unwavering support.

As the Cotton Coordinator and MD of HDI, I can confirm we are ready to give this our all. And I can say the same of respected leaders in the space such as Chief Aneibi Achimugu and Mrs. Nike Ogunlesi and other stakeholders who have been consistent champions of industry revival.

This time, we are seeing a convergence of political will and private sector readiness — and that is what gives me cautious but firm optimism.

Consultation is key for initiatives to succeed. Were stakeholders duly consulted?

This process marks a significant improvement. Major cooperatives, private sector actors, and technical partners like HDI, ruffle and tumble, the Nigeria Cotton Cooperative Society, Textile and garment makers, were consulted. However, there is still room to deepen stakeholder engagement, particularly with rural farmers, womenled processors, and indigenous textile

clusters.

To the government’s credit, they have been constantly in meetings with key stakeholders. We have had several direct engagements with the Honourable Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, and I can tell you he is passionate and deeply committed to working with us all. Our conversations have moved from abstract ideas to implementation discussions, where we are actively identifying bottlenecks and designing frameworks to remove them.

We are working hard with government to tackle the blockers, and the evidence is in the recent NEC approval of the CTG board — a milestone under the clear leadership of the Vice President.

How far can this administration go in transforming the industry into a money spinner?

This administration has the tools and mandate to make CTG a major forex earner and job creator. If they execute consistently, curb textile smuggling, and empower local players, CTG could rival oil in social impact.

We’re already working with government to map and maximise untapped opportunities in CTG and across agriculture. I can confidently say they are not leaving any stone unturned. From raw cotton production to ginning, spinning, and tailoring — every player is being invited to the table to co-create this transformation.

We are co-developing a phased

implementation model, which means identified challenges will be addressed sequentially with clear accountability metrics. What I can assure Nigerians is that the work is ongoing, and the results will soon begin to show. It is an exciting time — consultations are happening in earnest, and a new future is emerging. Expect to see a marriage between technology and CTG, which will be mirrored across agriculture.

How can associated challenges be subdued?

Challenges like poor infrastructure, access to working capital, and quality assurance can be subdued through targeted financing, digitized value chain traceability, and improved logistics. Strategic incentives for local manufacturers and partnerships with development institutions are also key. We must also work to formalize informal actors and scale cooperativeled clusters. Regional infrastructure like inland dry ports, intermodal transport, and dedicated power for industrial parks can unlock CTG’s full value. Technical skills development, especially through TVET institutions, must accompany these efforts.

Do you think stakeholders have what it takes to grow the industry?

Yes — Nigerian stakeholders are resilient, innovative, and ready. What we need is structure, reliable support systems, and access to the right tools and markets. The renewed hope agenda offers an enabling environment if all hands remain on deck. This is not just about planting cotton or sewing garments — it’s about building a sustainable industrial ecosystem. With committed leadership across cooperatives, finance, manufacturing, and export bodies, we will make this work. And I see that commitment daily.

How are financial institutions like the Bank of Industry keying into the project?

The Bank of Industry has shown commitment to supporting industrial players, especially with single-digit interest loans and cluster-based financing. They have a critical role in dweploying affordable capital, particularly to mid-tier processors and rural aggregators.

We’ve already started engaging financial institutions as part of the renewed CTG agenda. I’ve personally been in meetings with the new Managing Director of the Bank of Agriculture and the Director-General of the Agricultural Development Fund. Their readiness to support is encouraging. We’re also opening conversations with private equity and fintech actors to design innovative blended finance options that will fast-track real industrial growth.

Tell us about what the future holds for the industry and Nigeria.

The future is bright if we build sustainably. We are witnessing the rebirth of a national treasure — one that can clothe our people, empower our communities, and enrich our economy. The CTG sector can be a flagship of Nigeria’s industrial renaissance.

It’s not just about cotton; it’s about dignity, identity, and shared prosperity. The Nigeria we are building will wear its own fabric proudly again. And with youth, technology, and partnerships leading the charge — the CTG sector can become one of Africa’s strongest economic stories.

Majekodunmi

At Access Bank GLS,Tunji-Ojo Calls for Innovation-driven Public, Private Sector

Nume Ekeghe

The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has outlined a sweeping vision for innovation-driven governance, ethical leadership, and urgent reform in the country’s correctional system.

He delivered a compelling charge to public and private sector leaders in his speech at the Access Bank Guest Lecture Series (GLS), tagged, “Dare to Dream, Dare to Innovate,” held in Lagos.

Tunji-Ojo drew on his background as an ethical hacker to illustrate how great leadership, like in cybersecurity, must be proactive, identifying and fixing vulnerabilities before they become crises.

“Leadership is not about reacting to problems, it is about foreseeing and solving them before they occur,” he

said. “And for that, you must always ask: What is your purpose? How will you execute it? And when is the right time to act?”

Tunji-Ojo showcased the transformation underway at the Ministry of Interior since he took office, including the clearance of a backlog of over 200,000 unprocessed passport applications and the elimination of N28 billion in legacy debt. These achievements, he noted, were realised without additional financial aid from the federal government. Instead, the ministry deployed a strategy built on system integration, technology innovation, and financial self-sufficiency. Among the innovations highlighted were the rollout of e-visa platforms, contactless passport renewals for Nigerians in the diaspora, advanced passenger information systems, and the commissioning of a Tier-4

data centre to support round-the-clock immigration services.

In one of the most resonant moments of the event, the Minister spoke passionately about the broken state of Nigeria’s correctional system. He revealed that over 4,000 inmates were being held in custodial centres nationwide simply because they could not afford to pay fines as low as N50,000.

Chairman of Access Holdings Plc, Aigboje AigImoukhuede who welcomed the minister to the lecture series, praised his clarity of vision and decisive leadership. “What Dr. Tunji-Ojo has demonstrated is that innovation is not about big budgets, it is about big thinking,” Aig-Imoukhuede said. “His approach to public service reflects the same DNA of impact and excellence that defines Access Group.”

Applications Open for Heirs Insurance N10.5m Essay Championship

Heirs Insurance Group, has opened applications for the fourth edition of its annual Heirs Insurance Essay Championship, targeted at Junior Secondary School students nationwide.

This year’s edition features N10.5 million prizes for the winning students, teachers, and schools, reinforcing the Group’s commitment to driving insurance awareness at an early stage.

The winning student will receive a N5 million scholarship along with a N1 million education grant for their school. The first and second runners-up will receive N2 million and

N1 million scholarships, respectively. In addition, insurance-focused themes and quizzes have been embedded into the application process for students, ensuring early engagement with the concept of insurance.

Commenting on this year’s competition, Chief Marketing Officer, Heirs Insurance Group, Ifesinachi Okpagu, said: “We are excited to return with an even bigger edition of the Heirs Insurance Essay Championship. This year, we are not only empowering students and their schools, but also shining a light on the critical role teachers play in shaping

financially-aware communities. Across our businesses, we see education as a powerful tool to build a more secure future, and we are proud to drive that vision forward.”

The Heirs Insurance Essay Championship remains a flagship Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative of Heirs Insurance Group, aimed at improving education outcomes and deepening insurance awareness among the younger generation. Winners of the programme will be announced at a Grand Finale event in August 2025.

Ghana Cargo Technical Committee Pays Study Visit to NIA

A team of Ghana Cargo Technical Committee, comprising representatives from various insurance bodies in the country’s insurance sector recently paid a tour visit to the secretariat of umbrella body of Nigerian Insurance underwriters, the Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA). Those on the tour visit include members of the National Insurance Commission (NIC), Ghana Insurance Association (GIA), Ghana Shippers

Association (GSA), Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS), of Ghana. The Ghana Cargo Technical team was received at the Insurers House in Victoria Island, Lagos by the management of the NIA led by the Director-General, Mrs Bola Odukale, officials of the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) led by Dr Julius Odidi,Head of Lagos Control Office, NAICOM, and executive members of the NIA Marine Offices Committee

(NIA-MOC).

A statement signed by the Head, Corp.Comm/Brand Management, NIA, Mrs Ajoke Adeyemi said the primary objective of the educational tour was to gain insights into the operations of compulsory cargo insurance in Nigeria.

She said the meeting provided an opportunity for the Ghana Cargo Technical Committee to understand the processes, challenges, successes, and expectations regarding marine insurance business in Nigeria.

Foundation Recognises Expatriates Contribution to Nigeria’s GDP With Awards

Oluchi Chibuzor

The TEBA Foundation for Humanity, a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), has commended the contributions of expatriates to the growth of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The foundation in order to further encourage the expatriates irrespective of their countries of origin, recognised them with, “The Expatriates Business Awards,” which it believed would further inspire them to give more to the Nigerian society and ensure the country’s citizens are more engaged.

Speaking at the unveiling of the awards in Lagos recently,

Odunola Abayomi, Director of Awards, TEBA Foundation, said that the project aimed at rewarding entrepreneurial spirits of successful foreign personalities, groups, corporate firms and loyal migrants who now see and call Nigeria their homes.

She said the awardees had evolved their lives to contribute to the country’s business landscape over the years, adding that the awards were a testament and celebration of Nigeria’s multifarious business people. According to her, the company was currently conducting public opinion polls, meticulous research, and reviewing nominations

from the general public, insisting that the integrity of its selection process was sacrosanct.

Also commenting, the Head Samuel, the Head, Marketing Communication, Aero Contractors, Irene Samuel, said that the airline as a cultural ambassador, which encourages diversity, supported TEBA Foundation in recognizing worthy persons who have contributed to the growth of the nation.

She said that the partnership was an opportunity for the airline to identify and appreciate expatriates who reside in the country and create job opportunities for Nigerians.

Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo),

(Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic

Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

L–R: Programs Manager, Bethesda Child Support Foundation, Esther Alaribe; Head, Brands & Corporate Communications, Tenece Group, Yetunde Johnson; Principal, Bethesda Secondary School, Ikota, John Abah and Communication Officer, Bethesda Child Support Foundation, Esther Aladegbonmire at the recently concluded CSR initiative held at Ikota Secondary School in Lagos…recently

Ebere Nwoji

NGX Market Capitalisation Crosses N70trn Mark on Demand for Airtel, Others

Kayode Tokede

The market capitalisation of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), yesterday crossed the N70 trillion mark, over investors demand for Airtel Africa Plc, and 35 others stocks.

Airtel Africa led the gainer chart yesterday, gaining 10 per cent or N215.60 per share to close at N2,372.50 from N2,156.90.

With the gain in Airtel Africa, overall market capitalisation closed yesterday at N70. 4trillion, gaining N1.09 trillion from the previous day N69.29 trillion the stock market closed for trading.”

Consequently, the NGX ASI closed at 111,606.22 basis points, representing an increase of 1.6 per cent or 1,721.29 basis points from 109,884.93 basis points the stock market

opened for trading. On this, the NGX ASI Month-to-Date and Year-to-Date returns improved to +5.5per cent and +8.4per cent, respectively.

As gathered by THISDAY, the market value of Airtel Africa appreciated by N810.26 billion in a day it announced the purchased a following number of its ordinary shares of $0.50 each from Barclays Capital Securities Limited

pursuant to the authority granted by its shareholders as part of its share buy-back programme, details announced on May 14, 2025.

The company in a statement posted on NGX explained that the purchased ordinary shares would be cancelled.

“Following the purchase of these ordinary shares, the remaining ordinary shares of $0.50 each in issue will

be 3,669,442,413, including 7,489,044 treasury shares. Accordingly, the total number of voting rights in the Company is 3,661,953,369.

“This figure may be used by shareholders as the denominator for the calculations by which they will determine whether they are required to notify their interest in, or a change to their interest in, the Company under the Financial

Conduct Authority’s Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules.”

The statement added that, “Since the commencement of the first tranche of the $100milliion share buy-back programme announced on 23 December 2024, the Company has purchased 27,363,335 ordinary shares in aggregate, at a volume weighted average price of 136.7128 GBp per ordinary share.”

Alima Atta Foundation Pledges Support for LASU’s PR, Advertising Dept Ahead of 10th Anniversary

Charles Ajunwa writes that the Alima Atta Foundation has pledged continued support to the Public Relations and Advertising Department of Lagos State University

Before her demise on June 6, 2015, after a long battle with cancer-related ailment, Alima Atta, then Managing Director of Sesema Public Relations company, had set out to support, empower and educate the girl-child with her resources and expertise. It was a dream she pursued vigorously, reaching out to friendly individuals and institutions across Nigeria that shared in her dream.

Lagos State University (LASU) is one of the institutions that had a robust relationship with her in terms of training the girl-child in Public Relations, a field she dominated for over 20 years.

Beginning

Alima Atta had a postgraduate diploma in Marketing from Kingston University, Surrey, and a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in French and Sociology from the University of London. She had a successful public relations and marketing career for over 20 years. She worked at MMD Marketing Communications and Anderson Soames in the UK before establishing her PR agency, Sesema PR, in 2002, which was affiliated with Edelman, the world’s leading independent PR firm.

An inspiring woman who worked hard to reach the top, Alima brought Sesema PR to a leading role as PR consultancy in Nigeria, headquartered in Lagos, with a subsidiary in Accra, Ghana. Sesema’s dedication to improving PR practice in Nigeria earned her an award for her contributions to PR. She was named one of Nigeria’s ‎100 most influential women. Apart from being treasurer of the PRCAN, she was an educationist and host of TalkBiz on Smooth 98.1 FM.

Alima Atta Foundation’s on-the-spot assessment of LASU’s PR Studio

On April 23, Alima Atta’s aged mother who is the chief promoter of her daughter’s legacy, directed some members of the Alima Atta Empowerment Foundation, a foundation founded shortly after Alima’s death by family members and friends in her honour, to visit and assess the state of facilities at the Public Relations and Advertising Department, Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, Lagos State University (LASU), to support in any way possible before Alima’s 10th anniversary which comes up on June 6. Representatives of the foundation, Mr. Olamide Olowole and Mrs. Sade Onyia, were received

L-R: Sub-Dean, Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, Lagos State University, Dr.

Advertising Department (PRAD), LASU, Dr. Julius

sentatives of Alima Atta Foundation, Mr.

Olusegun, during on the

assessment

at the Alima Atta PRAD Studio by the Dean, Faculty of Communication and Media Studies (FCMS), Prof. Jide Jimoh; Sub-Dean, FCMS, Dr. Stephen Fatonji; Head, Public Relations and Advertising Department (PRAD), Dr. Julius Adeyemo; former Dean and President, ACSPN, Prof. Rotimi Williams Olatunji; Postgraduate Coordinator, Dr. Noeen Thanny; lecturers PRAD, Dr. Olatunji Andrew; Dr. Khadijah Yusuf, and Studio Manager, Mr. Giwa Olusegun.

One of Alima’a friends, Onyia, said that they put money together to start the Alima Atta Empowerment Fund immediately after she died.

Onyia said, “We handed N1 million, which was supposed to be given to 100,000 best graduating students for each year, based on what I understand, we’ve had five awardees so far.

“The idea is that we’ll do this for 10 years, and also the interest for me to be put back into that fund. Apart from that, we had contributed 10 laptops some years back.

former

and

“Because it’s coming up to 10 years, we’re just thinking about what else we could do to support it. Also, Prof Olatunji had reached out to us to try and see what we could do to help upgrade your PR studio.”

On the philosophy behind the foundation, she said, “Originally, when Alima was alive, she used to support LASU. I believe she used to get female interns from here. She was very supportive towards the girl-child, as well as people who had done PR, because that’s her background. We just wanted to continue what she had started in her lifetime.”

Olowole, another friend, said, “I think one of the things Alima was committed to was improving the profession whilst she was alive. Obviously, seeing her time was cut short, I think one thing her mother has also committed to doing is making sure that she honours her daughter’s legacy in terms of trying to improve the profession in Nigeria.”

He stressed that whatever Alima’s foundation contributed to the department should go round all the students and not only be beneficial to a few.

Olowole also urged individuals and the private sector to support universities in the country instead

of leaving the responsibility to the government alone.

Echoes of commendations

While commending the foundation for its support, the dean recalled that the first student sent on internship to the foundation, Omoye Akaba, ended up with a first class. He called for collaboration between academia and corporate organisations.

Akaba said, “At the end of the day, it is the society that will benefit from the products that we will produce and from the environment that we can create to ensure that we are able to do that.

“Doing this with an institution like you, a public-spirited one that takes CSR very seriously. We thank you for what you have done so far. We also thank you in advance for what you will continue to do. On our own part, we are committed to raising students that we can be proud of. Market-ready students, which is the essence.”

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

American Don Urges Nigeria to be Organised to Overcome Prejudices from Global North

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

A professor of Classics and Philosophy at Princeton University, USA, Hendrik Lorenz, has said the time has come for the country to organise and actualise its potential and overcome prejudices from the Global North.

He stated this while delivering a lecture, ‘Africa in Aristotle and Aristotelian Tradition’, organised by the Department of Classics, University of Ibadan, and the Classical Association of Nigeria, held at the Draper’s Hall, Institute of African Studies, UI. Lorenz, who spoke extensively on the history, studies, thoughts and ideas of Plato and Aristotle and their philosophical and scientific tradition, disclosed that the thoughts of Plato and Aristotle

were built in philosophy, science and culture.

He noted that looking at the foundation of Plato, Aristotle, and other thinkers is essential to understanding how thoughts work.

According to him, Nigeria is at the receiving end of a lot of prejudices and discrimination, and to dismantle them, the country needs to understand and look at the historical text and their contextual framework.

He also urged Nigerians to work together to make a difference, pointing out that the country has a lot of potential in various sectors.

“Nigeria needs to organise better to

actualise its full potential. Individuals cannot struggle effectively alone in isolation. They must organise and agitate together. By working and organising together, Nigeria can make a difference,” Lorenz explained. “Nigeria needs to work together and learn from other nations. There are economic, educational, cultural and healthcare opportunities in working together. Nigeria needs to cultivate and promote what it can offer the world.”

In her remarks, Prof Olakunbi Olasope of the Department of Classics, UI, said there are many practical benefits in promoting classical studies in Africa, urging participants to continue to work together to promote classical studies in Nigeria and Africa to unlock the potential of the youths

ICAN Fellow, Fasawe to Build N20m

A philanthropist, who is also a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, Odunayo Fasawe, has announced a plan to give a face-lift to his alma mater, Manuwa Memorial Grammar School, Iju Odo, Ondo State as he pledged to rebuild one of the staff buildings in the school which had collapsed and gone into ruin many years ago.

Fasawe, who was recently elected as the vice-president of the school’s old students’

association (MMGSOSA), said the pledge was one of numerous ways to give back to the college that contributed significantly to who he is today.

The project, estimated at N23 million, is expected to help the MMGSOSA achieve its noble objective of restoring the boarding house system to the 71-year-old college.

To improve the security in and around the college, Fasawe spent

and to enrich people’s cultural heritage further.

“Classical studies in Nigeria have had a profound impact on our country’s educational landscape and cultural heritage. Classical studies, encompassing the languages, literature, history, and culture of ancient civilisations of Greece and Rome, offer a wealth of knowledge and insights that can enrich our minds and lives as Africans,” said Olasope.

He added, “Here in Nigeria, cultural heritage and identity are deeply valued, classical studies have been complementing and enriching our existing various cultural traditions. By exploring the classical world, we have gained a broader understanding of the global cultural landscape and develop a more informed sense of our place within it.”

Staff Quarters at Alma Mater

about N20 million to provide a modern office and station for the Southwest security outfit, otherwise known as Amotekun opposite the school. He also facilitated the installation of security lights and sirens on the official Hilux vehicle for effective and efficient operations. He is the founder and managing partner of Stephen Fasawe & CO (chartered accountants).

The firm has been consulting for Lagos State as a tax consultant for over 25 years, and has acted as tax consultant to Ondo and

Ogun State governments.

In appreciation of his philanthropic gesture and community development agenda, Fasawe was recently elected the National President of the prestigious and most famous social club in Ondo senatorial district, Omawa Club of Ikale Land, made of seasoned technocrats, successful businessmen and women, retired military and police offices.

By his election, Fasawe became the youngest person to lead the over 30- year-old club.

Stephen Fatonji; Head, Public Relations and

Adeyemo;

Dean

President, ACSPN, Prof. Rotimi Williams Olatunji; Repre-

Olamide Olowole; Mrs. Sade Onyia; Dean, FCMS, LASU, Prof. Jide Jimoh; Lecturer, Dr. Khadijah Yusuf; Post Graduate Coordinator, LASU, Dr. Noeen Thanny; Lecturer PRAD, Dr. Olatunji Andrew; and Studio Manager, PRAD, Mr. Giwa

spot

at Alima Atta PRAD Studio, LASU, Ojo...recently

65TH BIRTHDAY ANNIVERSARY OF OLIVER ALI ABA...

Obi Decries Alleged Extortion of

from Onitsha Drug Traders by NAFDAC

As NAFDAC dismisses allegation of extortion Insists administrative charges were imposed on offenders

The presidential candidate of Labour Party in the 2023 election has decried the allegations of extortion by National Agency for Food Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) from drug traders in Onitsha, Anambra State.

The traders had alleged that officials of the agency who had closed the market for about two months on the allegations that they were selling fake drugs have turned around to ask them to pay N700,000 each before they can open their shops.

In a related development, NAFDAC denied allegation of extortion by a prominent social media influencer, the Very Dark Man.

The popular social media influencer was shown in a viral video with protesting traders at the Ogbogwu Market at Onitsha Bridge Head in Anambra State, alleging that officials of NAFDAC were extorting money from the traders before allowing them to reopen their shops closed in wake of the operation against fake and unwholesome medicine.

Meanwhile, Obi recalled he had visited the market and addressed traders in the early days of the closure of the market and had expressed solidarity with NAFDAC to ensure that the market was rid of fake drugs. He however said he never knew it would become a means of extortion, and also called on the agency to quickly review and drop the charges,

to avoid stifling businesses.

Obi said: “Already, over seven million Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) have collapsed in the past two years in Nigeria.

Our MSME’s businesses are at a “we can’t breathe” stage, and the very system that should be offering them oxygen to support their breathing is instead suffocating them.

“This level of insensitivity is both disturbing and uncaring. Let us prioritize compassion, economic recovery, and the survival of our small businesses at this critical time in our nation.

“I recall visiting the Head Bridge Market during the initial phase of its closure, standing in support of the authorities to ensure our society is free from fake drugs and counterfeit goods.

“I did so with the hope that investigations would be carried out swiftly, and the market would be reopened promptly, especially to ease the suffering of small business owners already burdened by our current national economic challenges.

“It is, therefore, deeply unfortunate to learn that shop owners are now being asked to pay N700,000 to reopen their stores.

“I want to appeal again to the relevant authorities: please review and drop this charge. Allow these businesses to reopen.

“These shop owners have already endured prolonged closures, mounting unpaid bills, and economic strain.

Adding further burdens to them and their families at this time is simply unjust and an economic sabotage.

“Peter Obi decries alleged extortion of N700,000 from Onitsha drug traders by NAFDAC. I am standing in support of the authorities to ensure our society is free from fake drugs and counterfeit goods.

“I did so with the hope that investigations would be carried out swiftly, and the market would be reopened promptly, especially to

ease the suffering of small business owners already burdened by our current national economic challenges.

“Compassion must lie at the root of government action.”

Meanwhile, in the video featuring the Very Dark Man, the traders claimed they were being forced to pay monies ranging from N500,000 to N700,000 in order to reopen their businesses.

However, NAFDAC said nothing of such happened, rather administra-

tive charges (as gazetted by federal government) were imposed on perpetrators.

A statement signed by the Director General of the agency, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye said: “The public should please note, contrary to erroneous speculations, that these are federal government gazetted charges and payments.”

The statement further said: “The attention of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration

and Control (NAFDAC) has been drawn to a misleading information as contained in videos that are trending on the social media of the incitement of traders of Onitsha Bridge Head Market by one social media influencer.

“The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) therefore, wishes to alert the public and security agencies on the incitement, which may constitute a breach of the Cybercrime Act.

Democracy @26: Nigeria Still Lacks Important Ingredient to Thrive, Says WIPF

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

As Nigeria celebrates 26 years since returning to democracy, Women in Politics Forum (WIPF) has insisted that the important ingredient needed for the nation’s democracy to thrive was missing.

Speaking at an interaction with the media in Abuja on Tuesday, WIPF Chairperson, Barr. Ebere Ifendu, said the Special Seat Bill, a groundbreaking proposal “is not merely an adjustment within our legislative framework; rather, it embodies a historic opportunity to bridge the significant gender gap in our governance system

Navy@69: Eastern Command Offers Free Medical Services to Over 5000 in Rivers

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

As part of activities marking the 69th Anniversary of the Nigerian Navy, the Eastern Naval Command has extended free medical care to over 5000 residents of Obumoton-Chiri, Bie-Ama Community in Borikiri axis of Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

The free medicare which is part of the Navy’s medical and educational rhapsody also featured the presentation of educational materials to children of the community.

Speaking during the flag-off ceremony at the community town hall in Port Harcourt, yesterday, the Flag Officer Commanding, Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral Saheed Akinwande, said the gesture is part of the Navy’s Corporate Social Responsibility to her host communities.

Represented by Captain Ugochukwu Elendu, Rear Admiral Akinwande also said the gesture by the Navy is aimed at improving civil-military relationship and sustaining harmonious partnership with their communities.

“The Nigerian Navy has a tradition of regularly reaching out to host communities as part of measures towards enhanced Civil-Military-Cooperation.

“The NN commitment to her Corporate Social Responsibilities is a key priority in the vision of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla which aims at sustaining partnership and catering for the welfare of the NN host communities,” he said. Akinwande disclosed that the Navy has outlined several activities to mark its 69th Anniversary, adding that they chose Obumoton-Chiri

Community because of her peaceful co-existence and relevance to national development.

The FOC said the rhapsody underscores the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to quality health care and educational services offered in safe and secured environment.

“This outreach is therefore organised as part of the celebrations and also to serve NN’s CSR objective. The Obumoton-Chiri community was chosen for this year’s Rhapsody because of her social and economic relevance to national development as well as her peaceful co-existence with the Nigerian Navy.

“The outreach is meant to provide free primary health care services and some selected secondary health care services to the wonderful people of this community and beyond,” he added.

and amplify the voices of women in critical decision-making roles.”

She added that: “Today, we stand at a milestone in our shared commitment to achieving gender equality and revitalizing our democracy - a journey propelled by an unwavering belief that the full participation of women in governance is an essential pillar of a thriving democracy.

“The statistics we face are not just numbers; they are a sobering reflection of the entrenched inequities that persist within our political landscape. Currently, women occupy only 19 of the total 469 seats in the National Assembly - 4 in the Senate and 15 in the House of Representatives - resulting in a mere 4.05% of legislative representation in Nigeria.

“This stark reality places our nation significantly below the global average of 26.5%, illustrating

a critical disparity that demands urgent redress.”

She lamented that: “Moreover, Nigeria ranks a disheartening 178 out of 182 countries in the InterParliamentary Union’s (IPU) global standings for women in national parliaments.

“This ranking clearly highlights the systemic barriers that have long stifled the voices of women in governance. This alarming reality serves as a clarion call for immediate and collective action, urging us to unite in the pursuit of meaningful change.”

She explained that: “The Special Seat Bill, currently under consideration in the National Assembly, emerges as a bold and necessary response to rectify this historical inequity by reserving dedicated seats explicitly for women within our legislative chambers.

“This visionary legislation is spearheaded by Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, alongside a dedicated coalition of lawmakers who are resolute in their mission to advance gender equality in Nigeria.

“The Special Seat Bill seeks to create an additional 74 federal legislative seats and 108 state assembly seats specifically for women. This is not merely a numerical increase; it is a transformative step toward achieving equitable representation that aligns with the principles of democracy.

“Importantly, this bill includes a sunset clause that mandates a comprehensive review every 16 years, reinforcing our commitment to ensure its impact remains relevant, effective, and responsive to the dynamic needs of our ever-evolving society.”

Service to Humanity for Citizens’ Benefits

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has assured his administration will continue to touch lives and render service to humanity to ensure socio-economic benefits for residents of Lagos State.

Governor Sanwo-Olu gave the assurance on Monday, when the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Lagos State Chapter, led by Rt Rev. Stephen Adegbite, and the leadership of the Cherubim & Seraphim (C & S) Church, led by His Eminence Baba Aladura Olorunfunmi Bashorun, visited him during different

courtesy visits at the Lagos House, Ikeja. The governor attributed the peaceful coexistence and developmental strides recorded in Lagos State to the unwavering support and unity demonstrated by religious groups, noting that Christian and Muslim leaders had shown examples of love, tolerance and harmony to the benefit of the state.

He also expressed appreciation for the role religious leaders have played in promoting peace and harmony, noting that their conduct

had significantly contributed to the state’s stability and growth.

“We are enjoying peace and progress in Lagos because our religious leaders - both Christian and Muslim - have consistently demonstrated love, tolerance, and unity. These values are vital to the continued success of our administration,” he said.

Governor Sanwo-Olu assured the Christian community of his administration’s continued support, especially in areas that foster spiritual and communal wellbeing, calling them stakeholders in government.

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka and Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

L–R: First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. (Mrs.) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu; Deputy Governor of Benue State, H.E. Barr. Dr. Sam Ode; Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence, Dr. Oliver Ali Aba JP; and wife, Deaconess Maria O. Aba, at the 65th Birthday Anniversary of His Eminence held yesterday at Hoare’s Memorial Methodist Cathedral, Sabo, Yaba, Lagos

16TH AFRICA’S BEACON OF ICT MERIT AND LEADERSHIP LECTURES / AWARDS...

L–R: Chief Operating Officer, Spectranet, Mr. Amrish Singhal; Founder/Chief Visionary Officer, Digital Encode Limited, Prof. Obadare Peter Adewale; Chief Executive Officer, Medallion Communication Limited, Mr. Ikechukwu Nnamani; Founder/Editor-in-Chief, Nigeria Communications Week, Mr. Ken Nwogbo; Regional Executive for West Africa, Africa Data Centres, Mr. Krish Ranganath; and Pioneer Chief Executive Officer, Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN), Mr. Muhammed Rudman, during the 16th Africa’s Beacon of ICT Merit and Leadership Lectures/Awards on the theme: “AI Governance, Standardisation and Cyber Security in the AI Era,” held in Lagos…recently

Tinubu Launches Campaign to Protect Nigerian Kids, Commits to Bullying-free Era

First Lady tasks Nigerians on bullying

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has appealed for a nationwide community involvement in child protection just as he launched a new public awareness initiative titled: “See Something, Say Something, Do Something.”

The campaign was aimed at deepening the culture of vigilance and responsibility for children’s safety nationwide.

In a commemorative statement issued to mark this year’s Children’s Day, the president declared, “Our children’s safety cannot be solely anchored on government policies but on community vigilance.

“This is why I am launching a nationwide ‘See Something, Say Something, Do Something’ campaign today, encouraging every Nigerian to become a child protection champion.”

The campaign formed part of the

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

President’s broader address on the theme of this year’s Children’s Day, “Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bullying-Free Generation.”

The president, who stated that the campaign was timely, also noted that it, “speaks directly to the culture we are building— a culture where every child feels safe, respected, and heard, both in physical spaces and digital communities.”

Stressing the critical importance of child safety, the president pointed to alarming statistics.

According to him, “Globally, more

than 1 in 3 children experience bullying regularly. In Nigeria, studies estimate that up to 65% of school-age children have experienced some form of physical, psychological, or social aggression. This is unacceptable. A child who learns in fear cannot learn well. A child who grows in fear cannot grow right.”

Tinubu further reaffirmed the administration’s “constitutional, moral, and intergenerational duty and commitment to safeguard every Nigerian child, protect his rights, and nurture his dreams.”

remained a central pillar under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The president, therefore, noted the implementation of the National Plan of Action on Ending Violence Against Children (2024–2030), which he personally launched. He described the Plan as “a comprehensive roadmap to prevent abuse, prosecute perpetrators, and support victims, backed by robust financing and multi-sectoral coordination.”

Tinubu also highlighted ongoing legislative efforts, revealing that the government was reviewing the Child Rights Act (2003) and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (2015) to expand their scope, strengthen provisions, and ensure consistent implementation nationwide. He stressed that these efforts would be boosted by full enforcement of the Cybercrime Act to combat online bullying and child exploitation.

Akpabio: Senate Will Prioritise Legislation on Children Abbas Vacates Seat for Secondary School Pupil

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has assured Nigerian children that the legislature was committed to prioritising policies and programmes that would protect their rights and enable them explore their potentials.

He added that child protection

Lagos Champions Collective Responsibility for Child Development, Education Support

Funmi Ogundare

Addressing the school children, the Senate President urged them to shun drugs, dream big, work hard and never give up on their aspirations.

“We pledge to prioritise policies and programmes that protect their rights and their potentials,” he assured.

Akpabio, made this disclosure at the National Assembly while addressing children at the Senate chamber in commemoration of the 2025 Children’s Day. The Senate had earlier suspended its rules to admit the children into the chamber.

Mohammed Tasks Stakeholders to End Violence, Intimidation Against Children

Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi

Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed has challenged relevant stakeholders on child development to rise up and take a decisive action to stem cases of violence and intimidation against children.

Speaking at the occasion of the 2025 National Children’s Day celebration held at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium, he said the call became imperative as his administration was

committed to protecting the rights and privileges of all children in the state. He noted that the choice of this year’s theme, “Stand up, speak up, building a bullying-free generation,” could not have come at a better time than now, as it underscored the commitment of his administration towards creating awareness on the negative impact of bullying on individuals and communities, and as well educate children and parents to recognise and prevent bullying behavior.

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, yesterday, vacated his seat for a student, Lawal Saliu, a student of Government Secondary School, Kuje, to preside as a ‘Shadow Speaker’ to commemorate this year’s Children’s Day.

Abbas allowed the student to preside over the ceremonial session that lasted about 15 minutes.

Saliu, who said he was “very excited to preside over today’s plenary,” thanked Speaker Abbas for the opportunity.

The Speaker had on October 10, 2024, vacated his seat for a 16-yearold gender advocate, Isabel Anani, who served as ‘Shadow Speaker’ in commemoration of the International Day for the Girl Child.

AbdulRazaq, Aremu Assure Children of Quality Education, Health, Welfare Policies

Hammed Shittu in

Kwara State Governor, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, yesterday, said his administration would continue to invest in quality basic education and basic healthcare as well as implementing policies that would make the world a better place for the children in the state.

AbdulRazaq, in a statement in Ilorin, said, “Every child deserves to live and prosper in dignity and this depends on all of us that they

look up to.

“As a government, we continue to invest in quality basic education and basic healthcare, while implementing policies that make the world a better place for them.

“This is reflected in our commitments to basic education, child and maternal healthcare, anti-hawking stand, six-month paid maternal leave, child-protection laws, and other consistent efforts to give them an environment to compete in the digital age.

FIRS Urges Stakeholders to Integrate Tax Education in School Curriculum PAN: 11m Children Suffer from Food Poverty

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has charged stakeholders in the education sector to integrate tax education into school’s curricula and extracurricular activities to instill the principles of taxation, fiscal responsibility, and civic duty in the minds of Nigerian children.

Executive Chairman, FIRS, Zacch Adedeji while speaking in Abuja at the Public Presentation of Taxation Book for Nigerian children stated

that tax education has been confined to boardrooms and policy circles making children to have little or no knowledge about the importance of tax benefits when they get to the helm of affairs, hence the urgent need for tax education.

Adedeji, represented by Associate Prof, Aisha Mahmood, explained that when children learn about taxation, they grow to be informed citizens who understand how taxes work and empowers them to demand accountability from the government.

Kuni Tyessi in

The Pediatric Association of Nigeria (PAN), has revealed that 11 million children were currently suffering from food poverty. It said out of the 11 million children, who could be categorized into two – over nutrition and under nutrition –over two million were malnourished, thereby posing a serious problem for the country.

National President of PAN, Prof. Ekanem Ekure, who stated this

yesterday in Abuja during an art competition centered on the theme of nutrition amongst children, said nutrition was foundational in the life of every child and serves as building blocks that brings out their potential to which attention must be paid to and not delayed. For this reason, she appealed to the lawmakers to make children-related issues a topmost priority, while noting that love for children should be evident in policies, decisions and in all interventions.

The Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to child welfare, quality education, and protection initiatives.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government ( SSG), Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, Sanwo-Olu described children as the state’s greatest assets, stressing the need for parents, educators, and the broader society to join hands in raising responsible future leaders.

He spoke at the grand finale of the 2025 Children’s Day celebration held at the Police College Ground in Ikeja. Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, however, called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to eliminate barriers hindering children’s access to quality education, healthcare, and overall well-being.

Okpebholo Urges Parents to Dissuade Their Children from Joining Cult Groups

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has asked parents not to allow their children join cult groups. Okpebholo, who stated this in a message of felicitation to children in the state, said he recognised the Children’s Day as a significant opportunity to celebrate the boundless potential, innocence, and vibrant spirit of the young ones, who are the true leaders of tomorrow. He reaffirms his administration’s unwavering commitment to ensuring their well-being, providing them with quality education, and creating an environment where they can thrive and realise their full potential. He, however, donated two Hiace buses, one for the winning male school football team to Ogbe Secondary School and one for the winning female school football team to Idia College, Benin City.

Foundation Brings Joy, Healthcare to Orphans in Abuja

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

Hope Everyday Foundation (H.E.F.), a medical nongovernmental organisation based in Kuje, Abuja, yesterday, organised a free medical outreach, health awareness campaign, and welfare donation exercise at a local orphanage and school, Al Ansar Children’s Home.

In continuation of its tradition

of reaching out to vulnerable children, H.E.F. selected Al Ansar Children’s Home — located in the Hajiya Zara neighborhood of Kuje Area Council — as its outreach destination for 2025. The event brought together a team of 34 volunteers, including medical doctors, nurses, pharmacists, microbiologists, and administrative staff, all committed to making positive impact.

Ilorin

Abuja

meetIng wItH State UnIverSal BaSIc edUcatIon Board...

L-R: Deputy Executive Secretary for Services, Universal Basic Education Commssion (UBEC), Tunde Ajibulu; Executive Secretary, UBEC, Aisha Garba; and Deputy Executive Secretary, Technical at UBEC, Rasaq Olajuwon, at a high-level meeting with State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) chairmen in Makurdi, Benue State…recently

NDDC Restates Commitment to Children’s Wellbeing in N’Delta

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), has restated its commitment to prioritising the wellbeing of children in the Niger Delta region.

The NDDC Managing Director,

ActionAid Nigeria Calls for Immediate Action to Protect Future of Nigerian Youth

michael olugbode in Abuja

ActionAid Nigeria (AAN), has called for immediate action to protect the future of Nigerian child.

Speaking in Abuja on this year’s Children’s Day, themed: “Tapping the Untapped Natural Treasure,” the Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, Andrew Mamedu, called for urgent, unified action to protect the rights and dignity of Nigerian children.

He urged the government at all levels, civil society, development partners, and the private sector to

acknowledge the dire conditions facing many children in Nigeria and to prioritise investments that secure their future.

Mamedu described the situation of the Nigerian child as alarming and untenable, stating that, “Despite the day’s celebratory nature, the reality for many Nigerian children is far from joyful. The convergence of escalating insecurity, deepening poverty, and widening digital divides has created a crisis that threatens the well-being and future of the country’s children.

Dr Samuel Ogbuku, who stated this during the commemoration of the International Children’s Day at the NDDC Event Centre in Port Harcourt,

said the Commission was focused on social bonding and inclusion for children in the region.

Ogbuku, represented by the NDDC

NUJ Sokoto Urges Parents, Govts to Priotise Children’s Welfare

onuminya Innocent in Sokoto

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Sokoto State Council, has joined the rest of the country in commemorating the 2025 Children’s Day, calling for greater parental responsibility and reforms in the Almajiri education system.

In a statement by Chairman Usman Mohammed Binji and Secretary Muhammad Nasir Bello, the NUJ emphasised the critical role of parents, guardians, and caregivers in shaping the lives of children.

The Council urged families to invest more in the moral, spiritual, and emotional development of their children, beyond material provision.

T I nubu Seek S nATI on A l A SS emblY ’ S ApprovA l for f re SH

The letter was referred to the Senate Committee on Local and Foreign Debts for further legislative measures within two weeks.

In the Red Chamber, Tinubu also wrote a second letter seeking approval for the issuance of federal government’s Bond in the domestic debt market to offset outstanding pension liabilities under the Contributory Pension Scheme. The bond is in the sum of N 757.9 billion. Tinubu explained that the bond issuance was intended to address long-standing pension arrears and fulfill the government’s commitment to retired public sector employees. Akpabio, while admitting the presidential requests, referred all of them to the Committee on Local and Foreign Debts for scrutiny.

Similarly, in the House of Representatives, the letter was addressed to the Speaker.

Part of the letter read by the Speaker stated: “I write to request the kindly approval of the National Assembly for capital raising of up to $2 billion in the domestic debt market toward the implementation of the Presidential Executive Order on Foreign Currency Denominated Financial Instrument Local Issuance Programme and Related Matters Order, 2023 dated October 19, 2023 (Order No. 16 of 2023) by the Debt Management Office (DMO).

“The House of Representatives may wish to note that this request is pursuant to the provisions of Section 44(1-2) of the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA), 2007 which requires the approval of the National Assembly for

all New Borrowings and Section 1(7) of the Presidential Executive Order that requires the NASS to appropriate the proceeds of the capital raising.

“Further to the provisions of the FRA 2007 which defines, the Use of Proceeds of all borrowings and requires Cost-Benefit Analysis of capital raising, please find below.”

On the request of the National Assembly for the issuance of federal government Bonds in the domestic debt market by the DMO to settle outstanding pension liabilities, the President wrote: “I write to request for the kind approval of the National Assembly for the issuance of Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) Bonds in the domestic debt market by the DMO to settle outstanding pension liabilities under the CPS as at December 2023 in the sum of N757,983,246,571.”

The President noted that Section 15(4) - Guarantees the right of retirees to pension review in line with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which provides that pension shall be reviewed every five years or whenever salaries are reviewed:

He further highlighted Section 6(2) - which requires the government to fund the shortfall in the Retirement Savings Accounts (RSAs) of eligible University Professors who are to retire on their full salary in line with extant laws; and,

The president noted that Section 82(2) - Establishes the Pension Protection Fund and mandates the federal government to contribute an annual subvention of one per cent into the Fund to part-finance the minimum

Pension Guarantee for retirees whose RSA balances had depleted while receiving the pension.

He stated: “The House of Representatives is invited to note that the FGN has not been complying with the implementation of the above provisions of the PRA 2014 over the years due to revenue challenges leading to accumulation of pension arrears with the attendant hardship to retirees.

“To settle the accrued pension liabilities as of December 2023 in the sum of N757,983,246,571.00, the government has decided to raise funds through the issuance of FGN Bonds in the domestic debt market.

“The proposed Issuance of FGN Bonds to settle outstanding pension liabilities was approved by the Federal Executive Council in its meeting held on February 4, 2025.

“This request to the National Assembly to approve the Issuance of FGN Bonds by the DMO to settle pension liabilities in the sum borrowing of N757,983,246,571.00 is pursuant to the provisions of Section 44(1-2) of the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA), 2007 which requires the approval of the NASS for all New Borrowings by the FGN.”

The president emphasised that the projects and programmes included in the Borrowing Plan were selected based on thorough technical and economic evaluations, as well as their anticipated contribution to the socio-economic development of the country.

These initiatives, he added, aimed at generating employment,

The NUJ also called on the government to intensify efforts towards improving the Almajiri system of education, integrating both Qur’anic and basic formal education, while ensuring the welfare, safety, and dignity of the children enrolled.

A reformed and well-funded Almajiri education system, the Council noted, would help curb street begging, reduce illiteracy, and equip children with both religious and practical knowledge. The NUJ appealed to policymakers, traditional institutions, religious leaders, and development partners to work collaboratively in designing and implementing childfriendly programmes and initiatives.

promoting skill acquisition, fostering entrepreneurship, reducing poverty, and enhancing food security, all of which would improve the livelihoods of the average Nigerian.

Tinubu noted that the majority of the projects and programs would be implemented across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

He said: “In light of the significant infrastructure deficit in the country and the vast financial resources needed to address this gap amid declining domestic funding, it has become essential to pursue prudent external borrowing to close the financing shortfall.

“These funds will primarily be directed towards critical infrastructure projects, including the sectors of power, railways, and healthcare, among others.

“Given the urgent nature of these needs and the importance of stabilising the economy, it is crucial to seek the consideration and approval of the House of Representative for the 2025-2026 External Borrowing Plan.

“This will enable the government to fulfill its obligations to the Nigerian people through timely disbursement and effective project implementation.”

Meanwhile, Mohammed Manga, in the statement further noted that by adopting a structured, forwardlooking approach, the debt rolling plan facilitates comprehensive financial planning and avoids the inefficiencies of ad hoc or reactive borrowing practices.

“This strategic method enhances Nigeria’s ability to implement effective fiscal policies and mobilise develop-

Deputy Director of Education, Health, and Social Services, Mrs Chioma Nwakwue, stated that beyond infrastructure development, the Commission emphasises human capital development.

“We, at the NDDC, are passionate about our children in the region, and we are committed to putting smiles on their faces. We decided to commemorate this event because our children are the future of the Niger Delta region.

“They are a generation that will shape the region and the world to come. We must ensure that their development is handled with care. This would make a positive impact on the lives of our children and ensure we all have a better tomorrow,” he said.

Invest on Your Children, They Are Leaders of Tomorrow, Says Kogi Poly Rector

Ibrahim oyewale in Lokoja

The Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, Professor Sallisu Usman, has urged parents to always invest in children because they are the future leaders of tomorrow.

Usamn was guest speaker at the Nigerian Post/Margret Ekpo Biographical Centre to commemorate this year Children’s day at the NUJ press centre in Lokoja yesterday.

ment resources. Importantly, it should be noted that the debt rolling plan does not equate to an automatic increase in the nation’s debt burden.

“The majority of the proposed borrowing will be sourced from Nigeria’s development partners, including the World Bank, African Development Bank, French Development Agency, European Investment Bank, JICA, China EximBank, and the Islamic Development Bank. These institutions offer concessional financing with favorable terms and long repayment periods, thereby supporting Nigeria’s development objectives sustainably.

“The overarching goal of the federal government is to drive rapid, sustained, and inclusive economic growth. Achieving this vision requires substantial investment in critical sectors such as transportation, energy, infrastructure, and agriculture,”

Manga stated.

He noted that the investments would lay the groundwork for longterm economic diversification and encourage private sector participation.

“Our debt strategy is therefore guided not solely by the size of our obligations, but by the utility, sustainability, and economic returns of the borrowing. Ensuring that all borrowed funds are efficiently utilized and directed toward growth-enhancing projects remains a top priority.

He explained that today’s lecture, “Children Our Future, Our Responsibility”, is both powerful and profound it compels us to reflect on the role we all must play individually and collectively in shaping the lives of the next generation. According to him, “This responsibility, however, transcends politics, geography, religion or profession. It is a moral duty, a national obligation and human imperative.

“In conclusion, the government remains committed to keeping borrowing within manageable and sustainable limits. The ongoing tax reform agenda, and other revenue initiatives, will further improve revenue generation and financial management.

“We reaffirm our dedication to fiscal discipline, transparency, and accountability. Constructive public engagement and legislative oversight are vital components of our journey toward long-term economic stability and inclusive national prosperity.” In the meantime, the Senate yesterday took a significant step towards reforming the management of Nigeria’s public assets by introducing the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (Repeal & Re-enactment) Bill, 2025.

The bill sponsored by Senator Sani Musa (APC Niger East) and was given first reading in plenary yesterday, seeks to repeal and comprehensively update the existing MOFI Act, which was first enacted in 1959. The proposed legislation aims to modernise the legal framework governing MOFI, repositioning it as a dynamic, commercially-oriented institution responsible for managing and optimising government investments.

Key provisions in the bill address the need for strengthened governance structures, improved transparency, and alignment with international best practices in sovereign asset management.

This holistic reform is expected to enhance the performance and value of government-owned enterprises and investments, driving greater economic returns and supporting the country’s broader development objectives. The Senate’s move underscores a renewed national focus on fiscal responsibility, institutional efficiency, and sustainable economic growth.

ANNOUNCING ORIJIN AS OFFICIAL BEVERAGE FOR THE OJUDE OBA FESTIVAL...

L–R: Head, Media and Partnerships, Guinness Nigeria, Seye Odebunmi; Marketing and Innovation Director, Guinness Nigeria, Olayinka Bakare; Chairman, Ojude Oba Festival Planning Committee, Prof. Chief Fassy Yusuf; Corporate Relations Director, Guinness Nigeria, Rotimi Odusola; and Head of Marketing, Mainstream Spirits and RTS, Guinness Nigeria, Uchechukwu Onwudiwe, during the press conference announcing Orijin as the official alcoholic beverage of the Ojude Oba Festival, at the Palace of the Awujale in

on Monday

Court Orders El-Rufai to Pay N900m Compensation for Illegal Arrest, Detention

A Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna, has awarded N900 million in damages against former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir ElRufai, and three others for arbitrary arrest and detention of nine Adara elders in 2019.

Delivering judgment yesterday in a suit filed by one of the elders and a former President of the Adara Development Association (ADA), Awema Maisamari, for the enforcement of his fundamental human right, the presiding judge, Justice Hauwa’u Buhari, said the detention of Maisamari for over 40 days without trial was in violation of fundamental human rights.

The court also ordered the Inspector General of Police, the Kaduna

State commissioner of police and the Nigerian Police Force, who were respondents in the suit, to pay N10m as general and special damages to the plaintiff.

On February 16, 2019, El-Rufai, who was the governor of Kaduna State at the time, ordered the police to arrest Maisamari and eight other Adara elders, accusing them of being behind the crisis in Kajuru Local Government Area where bandits were unleashing mayhem on communities. They were released on March 30th, 2019, after 43 days in detention without trial.

It was however gathered that El-Rufai, who was served through substituted means never filed any process and never appeared in court, neither was he represented throughout the proceedings.

In an interview with journalists shortly after the judgment, counsel to the applicant, Gloria Ballason, described the judgement as a landmark achievement against abuse of

fundamental human rights and abuse of power by the former governor. She added that “the judgment marks a watershed against abuse of power and accountability for

abuse whether the occupiers of the office are temporarily shielded by immunity or not.”

Ballason said the case was filed after El-Rufai left office, “which ex-

plains why he was sued in personal capacity as the first respondent,” adding that, “even when people in authority enjoy immunity, it does not warrant executive lawlessness.”

Dagogo’s Legal Team Opposes Transfer of Rivers State Emergency Rule Suit to Abuja

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The legal team representing a former federal lawmaker and 2023 Governorship Aspirant in Rivers State, Dr. Farah Dagogo, has protested the relocation of his legal challenge against the federal government’s emergency rule declaration in Rivers.

The suit, filed in the Port Harcourt Division of the Federal High Court, was moved to the Abuja Division, following a directive from the Attorney-General of the Federation.

On March 18, 2025, Tinubu declared a State of Emergency in Rivers State, citing alleged security threats.

PDP NEC: T IN ubu’ S N E gl I g ENCE , Ab DICATI o N of Co NSTIT u TI o NA l Du TIES b uo YIN g

cases self-inflicted challenges, we have also witnessed our enduring strength, the strength of our ideals, the resilience of our supporters, and the loyalty of millions of Nigerians as we also see today in the PDP as the most credible platform for national transformation.”

In his comments, the chairman of PDP Governors’ Forum, Bala Mohammed, said, ‘’As governors, we have gone through a lot. This dispensation is a different one under the present administration. There are so many booby traps, innuendos, political movements that have been done.

‘’Today, we have been bombarded by the issue of coalition, defection, a gale of defection that is even affecting some of our members.

‘’Our members are standing strong and resolute. There is no intimidation that we are not going through. There is no caressing or cajoling that members and elected governors are not going through if you ask anyone of them. But certainly, we are resolute. We will not abandon the mandate.

‘’And that is why you can see us here together.

Yes, we wish well for those who have left. But we believe this is not the first time people left PDP and came back. I’m sure they will come back.”

Prominent leaders of the party like former vice president, Atiku Abubakar and David Mark were absent.

But those in attendance included Governors Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), Ahmed Fintri (Adamawa States) while Peter Mbah of Enugu was represented by his Deputy.

Others were former Governors Mohammed Ahmed Maikarfi (Kaduna), Dr Achijke Udenwa (Imo),

Senator Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa) and Senator Gabriel Suswam (Benue) and Dr Samuel Ortom (Benue).

Also there, too, were two former Senate Presidents, Dr. Bukola Saraki and Senator Adolphus Wabara, members of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party led by Damagum, Prof Jerry Gana, Chief Olabode George, High Chief Tom Ikimi, Chief Eddy Olafeso and immediate past national publicity secretary of PDP, Mr. Kola Ologbondinya.

Equally present were Uche Secondus, former National Chairman of PDP, Chief Emma Ogidi, Iyom Josephine Anenih, Chief Mike Oghiadome, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, High Chief Ben Obi, Barrister Emmanuel Eno Iden, Mr Philip Salau, Dr Tony Aziegbemi, Prof Wale Oladipo, and Chief Alli Odefa.

Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, Deputy National Chairman (South), Senator Zainab Kure, Alhaji Ibrahim Shekarau, Amb Aminu Wali, Senator Abdul Ningi and Alhaji Kabiru Turaki, SAN among others.

Collapse of PDP May Breed Emperor

as President, Warns Ex-Governor Sule

Lamido

Former Jigawa State governor, Sule Lamido, has said the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was an integral part of Nigeria’s democratic history and that the continued existence of the party was tied to the country’s survival.

The PDP founding father, who was a guest on Channels Television’s Political Paradigm programme, added that if the PDP collapsed, Nigeria would breed an emperor as president. This was as another chieftain of the party, Chief Olabode George, has said the PDP made the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, who he is today irrespective of what he thought.

Meanwhile, based on the advice from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the PDP, the party has reserved the decision on the embattled national secretary, Samuel Anyanwu, to June 30, 2025.

Speaking, Lamido said, “If the PDP collapses, Nigeria will collapse. Where there is no opposition, then there will be an emperor. When the party collapses, then you have an emperor all over Nigeria, and all emperors are destroyed by their greed.

“The PDP is Nigeria’s history in the last 25 years. Therefore, look at the bigger picture. If the party collapses, it is Nigeria’s history which collapses.”

Lamido said if the PDP hadn’t restored Nigeria’s democracy in 1999, there was no way ex-military head of state Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress (APC) would have taken over power as president in May 2015.

He added that without the PDP laying the foundation for Nigeria’s democracy in the Fourth Republic, incumbent ex-Lagos governor Bola Tinubu wouldn’t have taken over from his party man, Buhari, in May 2023.

The former governor said Tinubu needed the PDP as a focal opposition party to keep him in check.

“More than anybody, Tinubu needs PDP to be chasing him, to be on his toes, but when it collapses, nobody will be chasing him; he will be chasing himself,” he said, stating that he wouldn’t leave the PDP despite the many crises rocking the party.

PDP Made You, Brought You to Limelight Politically, Bode George Tells Nyesom Wike

Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party

(PDP), Chief Olabode George, has said the PDP actually made the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, whatever he is today irrespective of what he thought.

George, who stated this while condemning Monday’s sealing of the PDP National Secretariat in Abuja by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), said the action by Wike was a complete betrayal.

Featuring on Arise Television yesterday, George further described the sealing of the PDP National secretariat on the orders of Wike as “absolutely sacrilegious, culturally unacceptable and politically indefensible.”

The PDP chieftain said, “The minister of the FCT, Wike, must know and appreciate the fact that this is the very party that brought him to national prominence.

“Wike’s action is like someone returning to his ancestral village only to lock up or sell the family house over a trivial debt. What is the motive behind sealing off the party secretariat because of a N7 million ground rent debt which Wike could have resolved without resorting to such a public show of hostility.

“If your family house has a backlog of ground rent, do you return as chairman of the local government to lock it up? Seven million naira is not a monumental amount. That is something you, Wike, could easily settle, especially for the party that gave you everything,” he said.

George, therefore, questioned the selective enforcement of land use charges, saying even the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) might be owing similar fees.

“If the authorities investigate APC’s national headquarters, it may be found to be defaulting as well. Such administrative lapses can happen and it should not be used as tools of vendetta,” he said.

The president further suspended the state’s democratically elected leadership and appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd.) as Administrator of the state.

In response, Dagogo initiated Suit No: FHC/PH/CS/50/2025 on April 9, 2025, challenging the constitutionality of the president’s actions.

The suit named as defendants, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the President of the Senate, the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the appointed Administrator.

The matter, presided over by Honourable Justice Turaki Mohammed, had been adjourned to May 26, 2025, for further proceedings.

However, before the scheduled date, the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court approved a request by the

Attorney-General of the Federation to transfer the case to Abuja.

In a protest letter addressed to the Chief Judge and copied to the Presiding Judge of the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt, Dr. Dagogo’s lead counsel, Cosmas Enweluzo, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, criticised the transfer as a violation of judicial independence and due process.

“Your Lordship, allowing a party to dictate the forum of adjudication sets a dangerous precedent and erodes public confidence in the justice system,” the letter stated.

The legal team argued that the Attorney-General, being a party to the suit through representation of the president, lacked the statutory authority to initiate or influence the transfer of a case from one judicial division to another.

Kalu: Senators, Others Endorsing Tinubu Because of Faith in His Leadership, Policies

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The Senator representing Abia North, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, yesterday, the reason his colleagues and others were openly endorsing President Bola Tinubu for a second term in office was because of their confidence in his leadership and policies.

He, however, said the defection into the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and endorsements for Tinubu were not for the fear of the opposition.

Addressing journalists in Abuja, Kalu said Tinubu represented national unity and not a regional leader.

“I don’t think that a party like APC has anybody to fear. We are a ruling party; we are passionate about Nigeria. We love Nigeria.

“So, there is nothing like fear. If the opposition doesn’t criticise us, who would they criticise? It’s their job to criticise.

“We are doing our job perfectly very well. And I hope that the Nigerian people will be less furious about what is happening in the country.

“Tinubu will be voted by both the

North and South. It’s in the interest of every Nigerian that he returns in 2027,” he said.

Relatedly, the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, has commended Tinubu for assenting to the bill converting the Federal Polytechnic Kabo to Federal University of Science and Technology, Kabo, Kano State.

The correspondences of the president on the establishment of three universities in Kano, Akwa Ibom and Oyo States were read on the floor of the Senate during Tuesday’s plenary presided over by the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio.

The Deputy President of the Senate, sponsored the bill on the conversion of the Federal Polytechnic Kabo to the Federal University of Science and Technology. He said the development reflected the president’s relentless quest to improve access to higher education and to fast-track the development of the country by providing the necessary skills to Nigerian youths.

Ijebu Ode,

John Shiklam in Kaduna

Barau hails president for signing Kabo Federal Varsity bill

NICE TO SEE YOU…

Afenifere Appoints Olu Falae as Chairman, Expresses Worries of Rising Insecurity

Goddy Egene

The Pan Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, yesterday appointed former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Oba Olu Falae, as the chairman of the National Executive Committee(NEC).

Falae, who is the Olu of IluAbo in Akure North Council Area of Ondo state, was appointed at the group’s monthly meeting held at the country home of its national leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, in Akure.

Rising from the meeting, Afenifere also insisted that restructuring is the best way to solve Nigeria’s problems and

BAOSA Names

expressed worries over insecurity, amongst other challenges facing the country.

Briefing newsmen after the meeting, National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, said that the appointment of Oba Falae was made by Pa Fasoranti.

According to Ajayi, the appointment of Oba Falae was to ” reposition the Pan Yoruba social political organisation.

He said: ”Oba Falae’s appointment is meant to reinvigorate the organisation with a view to ensuring that the House of Oduduwa is back on track to project the Yoruba mandate.

“The new Chairman, Oba

Tony Akiotu Abuja Region Protem Chairman

The National Executive Committee (NEC) of Baptist Academy Old Students Association (BAOSA) has announced the appointment of High Chief Tony Akiotu (1977 set) as the Protem Chairman of the Abuja region.

The President of BOASA, Olumide Ajomale, said in a statement that with Akiotu’s distinguished background and leadership experience, they are confident that he would bring renewed energy and vitality to Abuja region.

“As Protem chairman, High Chief Akiotu will work closely with members to revitalise the Abuja region, foster unity, and promote the values of BAOSA. His appointment marks an exciting new chapter for the region, and we look forward to his leadership and vision.”

“The NEC has tasked him with identifying and engaging ex-students in the region, organising a reunion, and building a strong community of Baptist Academy alumni. We are excited about the prospects of this appointment and anticipate a bright future for the Abuja Region under his stewardship,” Ajomale said.

He explained that Akiotu is a distinguished alumnus of Baptist Academy and a seasoned leader.

“As the Group Managing Director of DAAR Communications Plc (2010-2024), he has demonstrated exceptional leadership and management skills. We are delighted that he has agreed to assume this role and contribute to the growth and development of BAOSA’s Abuja region,” the BAOSA president said.

Former Nestle Chairman, Dave Ifezulike, Dies at 78

The Joshua Ifezulike family of Eze Ekpunobi clan of Umuezu, Umuanuka, Otolo Nnewi, Nnewi North Local Government Area, Anambra State, has announced the passing onto glory of their husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and cousin, Mr. Dave Chidolue Ifezulike. He was 78 years.

He died on the 30th of April, 2025, after a brief illness. According to a statement, Mr. Dave Ifezulike was a former Chairman of Nestle Nigeria Plc and also a former Chairman of Cutix Plc.

He was an alumnus of University of Manchester, England where he studied Engineering

and of Government College, Umuahia, Abia State.

He was also, before his demise, a director with the Full Gospel Business Men International (FGBMFI), Nigeria. The statement noted that he is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, brothers, sisters, nephews, nieces, cousins, in-laws and kinsmen and women.

He will be interred at his village, Umuezu, Umuanuka, Otolo,Nnewi, Nnewi North Local Government Area, Anambra State on June 12, 2025. Before then, there will be a service of songs at Our Saviour Anglican Church, Onikan, Lagos Island, on the 4th of June, 2025.

Falae, is a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), among other important offices he has held.”

In a communiqué issued after the meeting, Afenifere said: “The meeting considered various challenges confronting the nation currently.

“Since we have subjected these issues to rigorous interrogations severally, we have come to the conclusion that the most potent means of tackling the challenges is Restructuring.”

“We are therefore calling on the federal government under President Bola Tinubu and

the National Assembly to set the machinery in motion to restructure the country as a matter of urgency.”

“As we congratulate the present administration for clocking two years in office, we urge it to make Restructuring one of the major policies in its third year in office.”

”The security situation in the country is getting more worrisome. Bandits are, in certain situations, so emboldened that they even go into people’s homes to abduct them as happened to Oba James Ogunyanda Ilufemiloye, the Obalohun of Okoloke in Kogi State.

FG Launches High-Speed Internet Access for UNILAG Students

Vanessa Obioha

The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy yesterday launched the pilot phase of the Fibre 2 Hostel initiative, aimed at providing high-speed internet access to students in tertiary institutions.

Speaking at the launch event held at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Minister, Bosun Tijani, described the initiative as “a strategic milestone in our nation’s journey to drive meaningful connectivity across our country, and a powerful step towards improving the daily digital experience for students across Nigeria.” Fibre 2 Hostel is one of the flagship initiatives under the National Broadband Alliance for Nigeria— the ministry’s demand-side broadband strategy designed to increase internet usage by directly connecting public institutions such as universities, hospitals, and government offices. It is complemented by other programmes like Project 774, which aims to connect all local government secretariats in the country, and the Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme. The project is in partnership with Galaxy Backbone Limited, Tizeti Network, and Huawei.

UBEC Boss Calls for Action to Address Un-accessed Funds

Sunday Okobi

The Executive Secretary of Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Aisha Garba, has emphasised the urgent need to address unutilised and un-accessed UBEC intervention funds in basic education.

Garba, who spoke at the 26th Quarterly Review Meeting(QRM)

in Makurdi, Benue State, emphasised the urgency of addressing unutilised and unaccessed UBEC intervention funds.

She asked: “Are we doing enough?” although not as a rhetorical question, but as a direct call to action.”

UBEC boss stated firmly that the Nigerian child cannot continue

to pay the price for institutional delays and inefficiencies.

According to her, “This meeting is not just another routine engagement. We are confronting the real barriers to access and equity in basic education.”

A major highlight of the meeting was the unveiling of a new template for accessing UBEC intervention funds by states.

Garba stated that the framework aims to improve efficiency, accountability, and transparency in how education funds are accessed and deployed. She urged all stakeholders to commit to transforming every naira allocated into visible and measurable outcomes that benefit Nigerian children.

Ododo Attends 2025 AfDB AGM, Seeks Partnership for Kogi Devt

Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

Kogi State Governor, His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, FCA, is currently participating in the 2025 Annual Meeting of the African Development Bank (AFDB) in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, where he was invited as a Special Guest of the continental development finance institution.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has received the Director-General and Global Liaison of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP), Mr. Joseph Tegbe for a high-level briefing on the current state of the comprehensive strategic partnership between Nigeria and the People’s Republic of China.

According to him, “Governor Ododo is engaging with AfDB

The Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, who disclosed this in a statement yesterday, explained that the governor’s participation in this prestigious forum reflects the commitment of the state government to deepen partnerships with global financial institutions in order to attract critical development funding that will unlock the vast economic potential of the state and improve the living conditions of its people.

leadership to access targeted funding from a range of the bank’s specialised financing windows, with a focus on three strategic sectors: agriculture, solid minerals, and transportation infrastructure, particularly the development of a proposed airport in Kogi State.”

Tinubu Receives NCSP DG, Reviews Progress of Strategic China Partnership

According to a statement, during the meeting, Tegbe provided an update on the ongoing activities and initiatives of the NCSP office, highlighting significant progress made in advancing the comprehensive strategic partnership agreement signed by President Tinubu and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Niger Commissioner Listed among 50 Nigeria’s Most

Laleye Dipo in minna

Niger State Commissioner for Communications Technology and Digital Economy, Mr. Sulaiman Isah, has been named as one of Nigeria’s 50 most Valuable Digital Economy Leaders for 2025.

Isah was honoured by IT Edge News Africa at a ceremony held in Lagos recently.

The recipient was adjudged to have redefined technological governance in Niger State thereby emerging as a beacon of tangible progress.

Under Isah’s stewardship, Niger State has embarked on an ambitious journey to overhaul its healthcare system through

The statement noted that since his appointment, Tegbe has led robust engagements with key stakeholders in the Chinese government and business community, working to attract targeted investments into Nigeria across critical sectors, including infrastructure, technology, manufacturing, agriculture, education, healthcare, and mineral development.

It said: “President Tinubu commended Tegbe and his team for their dedication and the tangible strides made in aligning international cooperation with Nigeria’s national development goals.”

Valuable Economy Leaders

digital innovation especially through the introduction of a unified health card which has revolutionised patient record management across 23 secondary health facilities.

“This initiative is eradicating the longstanding issues of fragmented medical records and delayed care, ensuring that patients’ medical histories are accessible across the state,” it stated.

IT Edge News Africa acknowledged what it described as Isah’s commitment to leveraging technology for public good evidenced in the simplification of civil service recruitment processes.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji(left) with former Ondo State Governor, Dr. Rahman Mimiko, during Mimiko’s courtesy visit to the Governor’s office in Ado-Ekiti...recently

I bb ’ S A Journe Y In Serv I ce: A Sub STA n

transition programme. The initial handover was supposed to be 1990. This was changed to 1992 and eventually culminated in the annulment of the June 12 1993 election. The transition process started with the creation of grassroots political parties. The party registration criteria required parties to have representation in every state, local government and ward of the federation. After two years of this process, the then military administration proscribed all the political parties and decided to foist a two-party system on the nation with the creation of SDP and NRC. That singular act led to the detention of many politicians and impoverished a lot of Nigerians who had expended their resources into building political institutions that they believed promoted their political ideologies.

Even though Nigerians were experiencing economic hardship directly caused by government’s Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP), the military government, to meet the party formation requirement it had earlier set for politicians, took on the colossal expense of building secretariats for the two parties in every state and in all then 454 local governments of the federation. The huge expense included staff salaries and other recurrent expenses. Sadly, this long-winded process cost the nation approximately 5 Billion USD in 1993. It eventually dawned on Nigerians that the entire transition process was never sincere and a betrayal of Nigerians’ democratic expectations.

Not since the civil war had there been an event that

the establishment and operationalization of regional development commissions. The South West, North East, North West, South East, North Central, and South-South Development Commissions now serve as vehicles for sub-national infrastructure delivery, post-conflict recovery, and local economic development—helping decentralize impact and institutionalize regional equity.

Expanding Access to Consumer Credit

The establishment of the Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDITCORP) marks a significant move to widen financial inclusion and support domestic consumption. CREDITCORP is designed to facilitate access to consumer credit for underserved populations, particularly civil servants, youth, informal sector workers, and lower-income households. By offering credit guarantees and working with financial institutions, the initiative aims to stimulate spending, improve living standards, and energize the economy through responsible borrowing and lending mechanisms. So far, over 200,000 have benefited.

Advancing Education Financing

To democratize access to higher education, the government launched the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), a dedicated vehicle for financing tertiary education. The scheme provides low-interest, long-tenure student loans to eligible Nigerians, reducing financial barriers to university and vocational training. This initiative aligns with the administration’s broader goals of human capital development, youth empowerment, and long-term productivity enhancement. One year after its launch NELFUND has benefited about Six Hundred Thousand Students.

Unlocking the Blue Economy

With over 850 kilometers of Atlantic coastline and expansive inland waterways, the administration has prioritized the development of the blue economy. New policies and sector plans aim to sustainably tap Nigeria’s marine and ocean resources while generating jobs across coastal states and boosting revenues from fisheries, tourism, port infrastructure, and marine transport. Agricultural Transformation and Livestock Policy to bolster food security and rural incomes, a dedicated

responsibility and a national necessity.

The AfDB’s Financial Challenges

The AfDB’s financial health is under scrutiny. Despite a robust 2023 performance, with net income rising to UA 406.05 million and the African Development Fund achieving a record surplus of UA 115.27 million, warning signs loom large. Non-sovereign loan impairments, pegged at 12.4%, signal weaknesses in risk assessment that undermine private-sector lending—a critical engine for Nigeria’s burgeoning industries. Net interest income plummeted 93.5% from UA 153.31 million in 2022 to UA 9.95 million in 2023, driven by soaring funding costs and unfavorable spreads. Currency translation losses and actuarial liabilities further erode earnings, while reliance on callable capital pushes debt-to-usable capital ratios close to prudential limits. Most alarmingly, the Trump administration’s May 2, 2025, announcement to cut America’s $555 million annual contribution to the AfDB and its concessional arm, the African Development Fund, threatens the Bank’s triple-A credit rating and its ability to raise affordable capital. For Nigeria, which relies on the AfDB for concessional financing and infrastructure projects, these challenges demand a leader who can stabilize the institution while amplifying its role in Nigeria’s economic agenda.

Adesina’s Legacy and Nigeria’s Stake

Dr. Adesina’s tenure has been a boon for Nigeria. Under his leadership, the AfDB has prioritized projects like the $500 million Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) initiative, which has boosted Nigeria’s agricultural value chains, created jobs and stimulated rural development. Nigerian businesses have accessed AfDB financing for energy, transport, and digital infrastructure, while Nigerian professionals have risen to prominent roles within the Bank, reflecting Adesina’s commitment to meritocracy and national pride. A misstep in selecting his successor risks unraveling these gains, marginalizing Nigerian staff, and weakening the Bank’s support for Nigeria’s development priorities. Nigeria, holding the

shook the foundation of our nation like the June 12 annulment tragedy. For an election that was acknowledged by all, including today’s IBB, to be free, fair and devoid of ethnic and religious cleavages, the annulment threatened the unity of Nigeria by reopening a lot of old wounds. Some of those wounds still haunt us till this day.

As at 1993, MKO Abiola’s group of companies was the largest private sector employer of labour in Nigeria at that time, with over 15,000 employees spread across every state, right down to local governments of Ardo Kola in Taraba State, Lafiagi in Kwara State and Oriown Local Government in Edo State amongst others under the Community Concord newspaper. These businesses were disabled by the military government of the time expressly because of MKO Abiola’s victory in a free and fair election. The direct and indirect loss of livelihood for these Nigerians cannot be quantified. We were all casualties of the annulment.

The integrity of the June 12 elections and MKO Abiola’s victory were finally acknowledged by Military President General Babangida in his speech at his book launch on February 20th 2025. In the address, IBB blamed the annulment on some powerful Northern generals and politicians opposed to MKO’s victory. IBB specifically identified General Abacha and an unnamed Lieutenant General as opposed to his personal unwillingness to give up power.

After 32 years out of office, one wonders why IBB

Ministry of Livestock Development was established, separating livestock policy from crop agriculture for more tailored interventions.

Investments in climate-resilient farming, modern ranching, and value-chain processing are aimed at boosting productivity, reducing import dependency, and addressing longstanding pastoralist-farmer tensions.

The Livestock Ministry established by President Tinubu is a product of good thinking and visionary leadership. The Ministry can significantly boost the livestock sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s GDP, moving from $32 billion to $74 billion by 2035. In terms of potential, the sector could generate over N33 trillion in revenue.

In a bid to stabilize the foreign exchange market and strengthen the Naira, the government has launched new oil-trade mechanisms, including the Naira-for-Crude initiative and Crude-for-Naira transactions. These instruments seek to restructure how Nigeria monetizes its oil exports while ensuring domestic currency liquidity and reducing dollar demand pressures.

Capital Market Deepening and Investment Incentives.

With Treasury bill interest rates exceeding 20%, the Central Bank has recalibrated short-term borrowing instruments to attract investors and contain inflation. In parallel, the creation of a new national credit guarantee institution—CREDITCORP—aims to ease access to finance for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), supporting job creation and GDP growth.

Flagship Infrastructure Projects. From the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway to the Sokoto-Badagry Economic Road, large-scale infrastructure projects are underway with the dual objectives of enhancing connectivity and unlocking regional trade corridors. These projects are expected to catalyze logistics modernization, cross-border commerce, and localized economic activity.

Welfare Enhancements and Youth Incentives

In a major boost to youth welfare, the administration has raised the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) monthly stipend from N33,000 to N77,000—more than doubling support for graduates participating in national service. This marks a broader effort to retain skilled youth,

largest shareholding at 9.3%, cannot afford to back a candidate who lacks the vision or expertise to sustain this momentum. Dr. Maimbo is the only candidate who combines the technical prowess and strategic foresight to protect Nigeria’s interests while steering the AfDB through global uncertainties.

Dr. Maimbo’s Unmatched Qualifications

Dr. Maimbo’s career is a testament to his ability to deliver results in complex financial and institutional settings. As Vice President for Budget, Performance Review, and Strategic Planning at the World Bank, he secured a $3.5 billion budget—the largest nominal increase in two decades—while streamlining operations to enhance efficiency. This experience is directly relevant to the AfDB’s need to restructure its operations amid financial pressures. His leadership of the World Bank’s IDA20 replenishment, securing a record $93 billion a year early, demonstrates his ability to rally global capital for Africa’s priorities—a critical skill as the U.S. signals disengagement. Since the IDA supports 39 African countries, including Nigeria, Maimbo’s proven ability to align donors with African needs makes him uniquely suited to diversify the AfDB’s funding base, engaging Gulf States, sovereign wealth funds, and African institutional investors to offset Western retrenchment.

Strengthening Nigeria’s Private Sector

Nigeria’s private sector, a cornerstone of its economic growth, stands to benefit immensely from Maimbo’s expertise in risk management and financial innovation. His tenure as Practice Manager for Long-Term Finance and Risk at the World Bank saw him oversee $700 million in financial services, from sovereign catastrophe bonds to infrastructure finance products. This experience equips him to address the AfDB’s 12.4% non-sovereign loan impairments, which have hampered private sector lending critical to Nigerian businesses in energy, agriculture, and technology. Maimbo’s pioneering work in hybrid capital mechanisms and securitization offers a playbook to stabilize the Bank’s financial base, countering the margin squeeze

believes that the living culprits should still remain nameless. He found it easy to name Abacha, who is late and can’t defend himself from the grave, but struggles to apologise or properly own up to the truth and consequences of his action. In his 420-page memoir, he states that if he had gone ahead and upheld the results of the June 12 election, there was a threat to his life and that of MKO. 32 years after, he is alive to write and launch and benefit from his memoirs, while MKO was consumed by the whole ordeal. What an irony; a battle tested General and Military President for eight and half years who survived at least one bloody coup attempt was afraid of death while a civilian, MKO, confronted the dangers head on. If for just that one loss of MKO Abiola, the names of the culprits, dead or alive, should have been mentioned 32 years after, starting with the unnamed Lieutenant General. To do otherwise is to confirm that this has always been about self-preservation and IBB’s desire to remain in power. Not uncommon with politicians of the day.

Governance is a continuous and evolving process. The government of the day should take responsibility for and strive to correct misdeeds and injustices of the past. This process was started by President Muhammadu Buhari in 2018 and we would like to urge the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to complete the task of “putting right a national wrong.”

Firstly, we recommend that the Federal Government also

reduce brain drain, and incentivize civic participation.

Tax Reforms and Digital Government

The introduction of the new tax reform bills now awaiting accent of the President is designed to simplify Nigeria’s complex tax architecture, reduce evasion, and improve compliance. Complementary reforms such as digital passport issuance and the installation of e-gates at international airports are improving public service delivery and reducing bureaucratic delays.

Wage Reform and Labor Protection

To protect household incomes in the face of inflation, the government has pledged to implement a recurring minimum wage review every three years. This institutional commitment aims to ensure wage growth keeps pace with economic conditions and worker productivity.

Transition to Clean Energy and Trade Logistics

As part of its energy transition plan, the government is scaling up the use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as a cleaner and more affordable fuel alternative. Simultaneously, the Three Million Tons Transport and Trade (3MTTT) initiative targets an overhaul of freight logistics, boosting efficiency in the movement of goods across the country.

Strengthening Local Goverment Administration.

The drive for local government autonomy remains central to the administration’s federalism agenda. By promoting fiscal and administrative independence for local councils, the aim is to enhance public service delivery and bring decision-making closer to the grassroots.

Diversification of the Economy: Away from Oil, President Tinubu as pursued aggressively the goal of decertifying the Nigerian economy. Nigeria’s Solid Minerals potentials is receiving full attention under Minister Dele Alake and contributing immensely to national revenue. Nigeria’s mining reforms now yielding six-fold increase in revenue, $800m foreign investment.

Conclusion

President Tinubu’s first two years in office have ushered in a bold and wide-ranging reform agenda aimed at stabilizing Nigeria’s macroeconomic fundamentals while

that saw net interest income collapse. For Nigeria, where private-sector growth is vital to reducing unemployment and boosting GDP, Maimbo’s ability to strengthen the AfDB’s lending capacity is a game-changer.

Navigating Geopolitical Challenges

Geopolitically, Maimbo’s global credibility and diplomatic finesse position him to safeguard Nigeria’s influence within the AfDB. His track record—leading presidential transition teams, convening African Heads of State in Dakar and Abidjan for IDA funding alignment, and cultivating trust across global capitals—demonstrates his ability to navigate the fractious landscape of international finance. As the U.S. withdrawal threatens the AfDB’s credibility, Maimbo’s ability to bridge Wall Street’s rigor with Africa’s realities makes him the ideal candidate to restore donor confidence and secure new partnerships. For Nigeria, this means continued access to concessional financing for projects like the LagosAbidjan Corridor and the Nigeria Electrification Project, which have been pivotal to regional integration and energy access.

A Pan-African Vision Rooted in African Realities

Maimbo’s African roots, born and raised in Zambia, give him an intimate understanding of the continent’s challenges and aspirations. Unlike candidates who may prioritize donor agendas, Maimbo has consistently championed African-led development, advocating for financing that aligns with African governments’ priorities. This resonates deeply with Nigeria, which has long sought to assert greater agency in global financial institutions. His commitment to transparency, fairness, and value for money ensures that the AfDB will remain a truly African institution, responsive to the needs of its largest shareholder. For Nigerian policymakers, this election is a chance to cement the AfDB as a platform for Nigeria’s leadership in pan-African development, particularly in advancing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), where Nigeria plays a pivotal role.

formally recognise the sacrifice of the following people:

• Alhaja Kudirat Abiola

• Chief Alfred Rewane

• Other heroes of the NADECO struggle

•Journalists and activists such as Mallam Mohammed Adamu, Mr Alao Aka- Bashorun, Mr Olu Akerele, Rtd Col. Olu Bamgbose, Mr Frank Kokori, amongst many who were either jailed or killed

We also recommend the opening of a national register of hitherto now unnamed victims of the June 12 annulment tragedy along with a national monument to mark this phase of our history.

In my previous statement, I questioned if we have learnt any lesson from the terrible experience of June 12. I still believe we haven’t. I come to this conclusion from the perspective of someone who was deeply involved in the June 12 story. Beyond honouring and recognising the victims of June 12, I believe we owe it to the generations coming after us to speak the truth and state the facts about this part of our history as opposed to revising or rewriting it. We owe this to the demographic that makes up 65% of our population and who are the future of our nation. We therefore also recommend that an accurate June 12 history be included in the national educational curriculum.

Thank you.

God bless Nigeria.

LKO

positioning the country for long-term, inclusive growth. From aggressive infrastructure renewal and enhanced health and human capital investment to targeted sectoral interventions, the administration has demonstrated a commitment to modernizing Nigeria’s development model and unlocking its full economic potential. With a focus on decentralization, innovation, and privatesector engagement, these reforms are actively reshaping the business landscape. Strategic initiatives—such as the launch of regional development commissions, credit access schemes, education financing, capital market reforms, and energy transition programs—signal a deliberate move toward a more competitive, investor-responsive economy. The government’s emphasis on regulatory clarity, institutional strengthening, and the rule of law is restoring confidence in Nigeria as a destination where capital is protected, contracts are respected, and the private sector is seen as a true partner in national development. Nigeria’s expanding infrastructure backbone—from coastal highways to trade corridors—is being aligned with human capital initiatives in education, healthcare, and skills development, providing the critical foundation for sustainable productivity and innovation. These combined efforts not only foster domestic resilience but also create compelling entry points for foreign direct investment across sectors such as logistics, technology, energy, agribusiness, financial services, and manufacturing. Nigeria is ready for business. The doors are open, and all legitimate investors—from across Africa and around the world—are welcome to engage in mutually beneficial partnerships. Backed by a population of over 200 million people, an increasingly digital economy, and a government committed to reforms, Nigeria offers one of the most promising frontiers for growth, scale, and return on investment. While challenges remain, the trajectory is clear: this is a country undergoing a renaissance. Sustaining momentum will require disciplined execution, measurable results, and a continued focus on transparency and global best practices, which President Tinubu has all but done. With a strong foundation now in place, Nigeria is confidently stepping into a new era of opportunities and inviting the world to take a bet on it.

•Sunday Dare, CON, is the Special Adviser to Mr. President on Media and Public Communications

The Risks of a Wrong Choice

The risk of choosing the wrong candidate is stark. A leader lacking Maimbo’s financial expertise could fail to address the AfDB’s vulnerabilities, jeopardizing its triple-A rating and limiting Nigeria’s access to affordable capital. A president without his institutional experience might struggle to reform the Bank’s operations, leading to inefficiencies that undermine Nigerian projects. Worst of all, a candidate swayed by vote-trading or regional politics could dilute Nigeria’s influence, sidelining its professionals and businesses. Adesina’s legacy—marked by Nigeria’s prominence in the AfDB’s operations—must not be squandered through a short-sighted choice.

Conclusion

This election is a referendum on the AfDB’s future and Nigeria’s role in it. Dr. Maimbo offers a rare synthesis of technical mastery, institutional insight, and pan-African vision. He represents the best of Africa: competent, principled, globally respected, and deeply rooted in African development realities. For Nigeria, backing his candidacy is not charity—it is strategic self-interest. It ensures that the institutional gains under Adesina are preserved, that Nigerian businesses remain key beneficiaries of AfDB capital, and that Nigeria’s leadership role in Africa’s development finance architecture is sustained. Given current climes and conditions, the AfDB’s next leader will shape Africa’s economic destiny. Nigeria can and should lead that future—by supporting the right man, at the right time, for the right reasons. That man is Dr. Sam Maimbo.

•Tunde Ajia is an infrastructure development specialist and strategy advisor, whose interests lay at the nexus of where policy meets the design and delivery of infrastructure projects.

Previously a board member of the Project Management institute (PMI) UK chapter and currently sits on the executive board of Oxford Urbanists (OU), a global non-profit organization on sustainable urbanism. He has conducted extensive research in infrastructure development and economic growth. Email: tuibaj@outlook.com

T I nubu’ S M IDT er M , Fro M r e F or MS T o r ecover Y

Super Eagles, Black Stars Take Rivalry to Unity Cup in London

Duro Ikhazuagbe

Three-time African champions Nigeria and four-time champions Ghana will bring alive the Unity Cup Invitational Tournament in London this evening

when both regional rivals clash in the second semi-final of a tournament of immense cultural and sporting relevance.

Both teams bring a number of critical elements into the encounter

Underdogs Betis Battle

Chelsea for Europa Conference League Title Live on GOtv

The 2024/2025 UEFA Europa Conference League final between Chelsea and Real Betis will be broadcast live on GOtv. Scheduled to take place at the Tarczy’ski Arena in Wrocław, Poland, the match will kick off at 8pm tonight on SuperSport channel 61.

Chelsea have had an impressive run in the Conference League, netting 39 goals across 14 matches. The Blues have cruised through every stage in the competition to book their place in the final.

Meanwhile, Real Betis have surpassed all expectations, making history by progressing beyond the last 16 of a European competition for the first time ever.

Chelsea, already crowned champions in three major UEFA competitions, could become the first

team to complete a clean sweep of all European trophies.

A win tonight would not only cap off their European run but also provide a crucial confidence boost heading into next season.

Real Betis, in a bid to make history, have reached their first-ever European final, and they will hope to make it a memorable one.

After stunning Fiorentina in the semi-finals, Betis are not short of confidence. With a squad bursting with talent and determination, they’re ready to defy expectations and bring home their first continental trophy.

Despite being considered underdogs, Betis have the flair and fighting spirit to pull off a major upset. The encounter promises expect end-to-end fireworks.

Djokovic Makes Winning Start to French Open Title Campaign

Novak Djokovic began his latest bid for a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam singles title with a commanding win over Mackenzie McDonald.

The former world number one ended his wait for his 100th ATP singles titlein Geneva last week and maintained his recent upturn in form with a 6-3 6-3 6-3 win over the 98th-ranked American.

Djokovic - who turned 38 last week - has now won all 21 of the first-round matches he has played at Roland Garros.

Sixth seed Djokovic will next play Corentin Moutet, who beat fellow Frenchman Clement Tabur in straight sets in the first round.

Djokovic arrived in Geneva without a win on clay in 2025,

having suffered first-round exits in both Monte Carlo and Madrid.

But with his wait for a 100th Tourlevel titlefinally over - one which had gone on since he completed the career ‘Golden Slam’ at the Paris Olympics last summer - the Serb will feel he is beginning to gain real momentum on this surface.

The one-sided victory over McDonald, completed two minutes short of the two-hour mark, was his fifth successive win following a run of three straight losses.

After that unfamiliar slump in results, Djokovic took the decision to end his six-month partnership with coach and former rival Andy Murray, who he said joked this week that he was winning tournaments now he had “a proper coach”.

taking place at Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium, including a 74-year rivalry in which Ghana have smiled more than Nigeria, but either team has felt like they lost a World War 3 whenever results did not go their way.

Until March last year, when they won a friendly match against the Black Stars 2-1 in the Moroccan city of Marrakech, thanks to goals from Cyriel Dessers and Ademola Lookman, the Super Eagles had not beaten their West African foes in 18 years. That was when Taye Taiwo’s shot from a free-kick outside the box condemned the Black Stars to defeat in a group

phase encounter in Port Said, at the 2006 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.

The Black Stars won the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification pitching both teams together, on the away goal rule, and retain the bragging rights of the biggest win in their clashes – a 7-0 spanking of then Red Devils in a Jalco Cup match in Accra on 30th October 1955. Ghana also won the two teams’ only previous clash at Brentford, running away 4-1 victors in a friendly encounter on 6th February 2007.

However, the Super Eagles have equally had their day in the sun, such as the 3-0 trashing of the Black Stars

in Port Harcourt to earn passage to the 2002 FIFA World Cup finals, and eliminating the Cup holders from the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations.

Wednesday’s clash in west London is another opportunity for the Super Eagles to prove their mettle, with Head Coach Eric Chelle having called an interesting blend of home-based talent and boys based overseas.

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali is expected to be in goal, with Semi Ajayi, Felix Agu, Sodiq Ismaila, Igoh Ogbu, Bruno Onyemaechi, Junior Nduka, Ifeanyi Onyebuchi and Waliu Ojetoye available for slots in the defence, and Frank Onyeka, Wilfred

Host state Ogun added to its medal tally in table tennis at the 22nd National Sports Festival—tagged Gateway Games 2024—by securing gold in the Mixed Doubles category.

On Monday, Ogun had already claimed two gold medals in the para table tennis events. Building on that success, the duo of Bode Abiodun and Tosin Oribamishe delivered a stellar performance in the Mixed Doubles final, defeating Bayelsa’s Azeez Solanke and Iyanuoluwa Falana.

mance from the Ogun pair. They cruised to a straight-sets 3-0 victory over Bayelsa, bringing Ogun’s gold medal count in table tennis to three.

Meanwhile, the singles competitions are heating up as they enter a critical stage. Defending women’s singles champion Fatimo Bello of Delta has confidently declared her intent to retain the title.

“Expect a different performance in this festival because nothing can stop me from retaining the title. It’s going to be tougher this year, but

I’m fully ready for any opponent here in Abeokuta,” said Bello.

The men’s singles event promises a fierce contest with more than ten top contenders, including foreignbased stars such as Olajide Omotayo, Bode Abiodun, Taiwo Mati, Bode Kayode, and Azeez Solanke. They will be joined by local talents like Matthew Kuti and Abdulbasit Abdulfatai, as well as defending champion Amadi Omeh of Edo.

Chairman of the Lagos State Table Tennis Association (LSTTA), Tunji

Lawal, praised the organizers and emphasized the importance of talent identification at the festival.

“I must commend the Ogun State government for putting on a great show. The turnout for the table tennis event has been impressive. With more players participating, we increase our chances of discovering new talent. This is a promising development for the sport in Nigeria. Hopefully, we can find the next Quadri Aruna at this year’s Gateway Games,” Lawal stated.

The annual Bayelsa State Government sponsored Prosperity

nationalities showcased brilliant football skills to admiration of football enthusiasts.

In the quarter finals played at the Samson Siasia Sports Complex on Tuesday, two teams from Yenagoa, Eternal Grace Ministries and Bayelsa

Gateway Games 2024: Ogun Wins Table Tennis Mixed Gold ...Team IJA Settle for Men’s

Their path to the final wasn’t without challenges. In the semifinals, they faced stiff competition from Edo’s Rilwan Akanbi and Aminat Fashola. It was Abiodun’s experience that proved decisive, helping the Ogun team edge out a narrow 3-2 victory to book their place in the final.

Unlike the hard-fought semifinal, the final saw a dominant perfor-

Team IJA (Invited Junior Athletes) made up of National U17 Boys, has clinched the football bronze medals of the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival in Ogun State. Team IJA defeated Team

Football Bronze

Kaduna 2-0 in the third-place match played at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo on Tuesday morning. Goal-poacher Abdulmuiz Adeleke scored the first goal and

then put immense pressure on his marker to score an own goal and seal Team IJA’s triumph. In the female event, Team Ogun defeated Team Osun by the same margin to clinch the bronze medals.

Prosperity Cup Enters S’finals As Organisers List Gains

United Feeder team and Youbolobo FC from Agge community and Crusaders FC Peretorugbene, both from Ekeremor Local Government Area, made it through to the semi finals. In a grueling but an entertaining last quarter final match, Crusaders FC defeated Citiboi FC 1-0 to advance to the semi finals.

Earlier, Bayelsa feeder’s team defeated Movers FC, External Grace Ministry defeated PNS FC, while Youbolono FC edged out Advance Dream FC. The semi finals matches are expected to begin on Friday as both teams from Yenagoa meet each other just as the qualified teams from Ekeremor LGA slugged out to

determine which team fight it out for N10M prize money and the trophy. Speaking on the tournament, the Director General of the Prosperity Cup 2025, Kelvin Akpe, listed some of the gains of the tournament which has attracted local and foreign scouts. This year completion according to him attracted many non-indigenous team like the Arewa FC, Ohaneze youths team participating in a larger version of the tournament thereby promoting unity among the various groups and ethnic nationalities in the state. He said most of players discovered from the competition have form the fulcrum of the Bayelsa United feeders team and gone on to play for other teams both in Nigeria and Europe.

Ndidi, Papa Daniel Mustapha, Saviour Isaac and Collins Ogwueze tugging for the midfield shirts. Christantus Uche was yet to arrive in the team’s Doubletree By Hilton Ealing abode as at Tuesday evening. Ahmed Musa, Moses Simon, Kelechi Iheanacho, Nathan Tella, Cyriel Dessers, Samuel Chukwueze, Sikiru Alimi and Adamu Abubakar are available for Coach Eric Chelle in the fore-line, as Tolu Arokodare, who a few days ago clinched Belgium Pro League’s top scorer award, was scheduled to arrive on last night and might not feature having not trained with the team.

Super Eagles in last warm up session yesterday evening before taking on Ghana’s Black Stars today in the Unity Cup tournament ...in London

Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa

Cup Football Tournament among communities and other clubs in the state has entered the Last 4 stage after over 254 rounds of matches across various centre.

This year’s tournament which attracted over 231 clubs including female teams, has lived up to expectation as new clubs, community teams and even teams from other ethnic

Novak Djokovic...flying start to 2025 French Open

inAUGURAL mEETinG of SEnATE AD-hoc commiTTEE To oVERSEE EmERGEncy

RULE...

L-R: Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Tahir Munguno; Chairman, Senate Committee on Land Transport, Senator Adamu Aliero; Leader of the Senate/Chairman, Senate Ad-hoc Committee to Oversee Emergency Rule in Rivers State, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele; Chairman, Senate Committee on Finance, Senator Sani Musa; Lawmaker from Delta Central, Senator Ede Dafinone and Chairperson, Senate Committee on Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Senator Oluranti Adebule at the inaugural meeting of the committee held in New Senate Wing, National Assembly Complex, Abuja ... yesterday

KolAABIOLA

IBB’s A Journey In Service: A Substantive Response

After the return to democracy in Nigeria, we sought the official recognition of the June 12 elections and Chief MKO Abiola’s victory.

On June 12th 2018, the Federal Republic of Nigeria awarded Bashorun M.K.O Abiola the posthumous national award of Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR). His running mate, Ambassador Baba Kingibe, was also awarded the Grand Commander of Nigeria (GCON). This belated recognition came 25 years after the election they won in 1993.

At the event, President Muhammadu Buhari said, “The decision and this event is not meant to be and is not an attempt to open old wounds, but to put right a national wrong. Nigerians of their own freewill voted for

Late Chief MKO Abiola and Amb. Baba Gana Kingibe, the Presidential flag bearer and running mate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the 1993 elections. The Government of the day inexplicably cancelled the elections when it was clear who were going to be the winners.” He further said, “On behalf of the Federal Government, I tender the nation’s apology to the family of Late MKO Abiola, who got the highest votes and to those that lost their loved ones in the cause of June 12 struggle.”

With this announcement, our prayer was answered. On that day in 2018, our father stopped being the “presumed winner” of the 1993 election to being recognised as Nigeria’s posthumous President. After 25 years of emotional and

SuNDAYDARE

psychological trauma, the award in 2018 went a long way to bringing closure for some of us. Once again, we would like to acknowledge and appreciate the courage of President Buhari for that bold step.

The Obasanjo government refused to recognise or honour June 12 or Bashorun MKO Abiola in its eight years of governance. In contrast, President Buhari’s government also designated June 12 as National Democracy Day in 2018, replacing May 29, President Obasanjo’s preferred date. Further, the National Stadium was renamed MKO Abiola Stadium in 2019.

As of February 27th 2025, the day of the IBB book launch, 62% of MKO’s children were 45 years old and below. This percentage correlates with Nigeria’s demographic

distribution today. On June 12th 1993, 35 years ago, most of us would have been 10 years old or younger. Many were toddlers or teenagers with limited knowledge and understanding of the facts surrounding the June 12 election and the colossal tragedy that unfolded thereafter. As such it is necessary for us as a nation to acknowledge and document facts for the proper preservation of history, justice and accountability.

After the coup of 1985 that brought the government of the Military President IBB into power, there was a national agitation for a return to civilian rule. In a speech to the nation in 1987, IBB announced a political

Tinubu’s Midterm, From Reforms to Recovery

As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu marks two years in office, the series of structural reforms and sector-specific initiatives aimed at stabilizing the macroeconomy, expanding access to finance, and accelerating inclusive development begins to take firm root. Under President Tinubu, Nigeria’s economy achieved its fastest growth in 10 years in 2024. According to the World Bank, his slew of new fiscal and monetary policies now positions Nigeria strongly for a growth projection of 3.6% this year, 2025. Key milestones include the establishment of regional

development commissions, new education financing and credit access schemes, targeted investments in health and human capital, a renewed push into the blue economy and resurgent investor confidence opening up new funds in oil and gas, energy, mining and agriculture. The list goes on. A robust infrastructure renewal drive—anchored by flagship road and transport corridor projects—is underway to enhance connectivity and unlock regional trade. Complemented by tax reforms, wage adjustments, and energy transition efforts, the administration’s agenda reflects a strategic pivot toward decentralisation, innovation,

and fiscal sustainability.

Crucially, Nigeria is reasserting itself as a more investor-friendly destination, underpinned by a renewed commitment to the rule of law, institutional reforms, and a regulatory environment aimed at attracting domestic and foreign capital.

While challenges persist—particularly in inflation, security, and policy implementation—the foundations for long-term economic competitiveness and privatesector-led growth are being laid. One man’s clear vision and decisive temperament, laced with an aggressive approach to reforms, has opened up Nigeria’s possibilities

and potential.

There are ongoing efforts showcasing achievements and impacts that have shaped the socio-economic landscape of the nation as the Tinubu Government reaches the midway mark.

Regional Development Frameworks

To address Nigeria’s geographic diversity and regionspecific challenges, the administration has advanced

Africa’s Financial Future Hinges on Nigeria’s choice:

Why Dr. Sam Maimbo