in his honour at Government House, Morne Fortune, Saint Lucia, on Monday
Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja
FGN Bonds contributed over N59.796 trillion or 79.85 per cent to the federal government’s N74,887 trillion domestic debt obligations as of the first quarter of 2025 ending March 31, 2025.
The total public debt stock of the federal and state governments as well as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) also posted 3.3 per cent quarter-onquarter rise of N4.72 trillion, from N144.67 trillion as of December 31, 2024 to N149.39 trillion by March 31, 2025. These were contained in the latest public debt figures released by the Debt Management Office (DMO) total debt stock, comprising debt owed by the government at the centre, the 36 states of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The DMO data showed that of the N78.56 trillion total domestic debt obligations of the federal and state governments as well as the FCT as of March 31, 2025, the federal government accounted for the chunk of N74.89 trillion while the balance of N3,869 billion was for the states
and FCT.
Looking at the debt instruments that constituted the federal government’s N74.89 trillion domeatic debt obligations, FGN Bonds accounted for N59.796 trillion or approximately 80 per cent (79.85 per cent of the amount.
While FGN Naira Bonds contributed N58,387 trillion (N58,387, 428,001,592), FGN US Dollar Bonds accounted for N1,409 trillion (N1,409,423,796,499).
Nigerian Treasury Bills (NTBs) was second among the debt instruments accounting for the federal government’s domestic debt obligations, standing at N12.699 trillion or 16.96 per cent.
FGN Sukuk was third with N992,557 billion (1.33 per cent) while FGN Savings Bond stood at N82.614 billion or 0.11 per cent during the reference period.
FGN Green Bond was the least as of March 31, accounting for just N15 billion (0.02 per cent).
This debt instrument is expected to rise with the recent issuance of N50 billion Series 111 Sovereign Green Bond by the DMO, which
attracted an overscription of N91.42 billion, and the eventual allocation of N47.335 billion to subscribers at a coupon of 18.95 per cent per annum.
Another debt instruments captured as contributing to the
FGN domestic debt obligations as of March 31 were Promissory Notes, accounting for N1.301 trillion (N1,301,075,690,085.77) or 1.74 per cent.
Local currency denominated
Promissory Notes stood at N271.418 billion (N271,418,810,719) while foreign currency denominated accounted for N1.029 trillion.
Meanwhile, Jigawa retained its profile as the least indebted state in
the country with debt obligations slightly above N1 billion. Lagos State remains the most indebted state with N874 billion, followed by Rivers, N364,393 billion and Delta, N204,724 billion.
Tinubu: Functional Capital City is Foundation for Functioning Nation
Hails Wike, his team’s urgency in projects’ execution in FCT
President Bola Tinubu has stressed that a functional capital city is the foundation upon which a functioning nation is built.
Tinubu said the ongoing infrastructure development across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) was a testament to his administration’s commitment to building an inclusive and thriving Nigeria.
Over 20 Speakers Expected as Stakeholders Brainstorm on Gas Safety in Abuja
Oil and gas sector stakeholders are set to converge on Abuja, the Nigerian capital, with a mission to brainstorm on the safety of gas deployment in the upstream, midstream and downstream sectors of the industry.
As Nigeria rapidly transitions to a gas-powered economy through Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), Compressed Petroleum Gas (CNG), and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) adoption, the organisers of the the event, Fleissen & Company, led by its Managing Partner, Dr Sunday Kashio, noted that this growth has brought with it increasing safety risks, regulatory demands, and infrastructure challenges.
The Gas Safety Conference (GSC) 2025, which is set to take place between July 8 and 9, he said , is
Nigeria’s first dedicated platform for gas safety dialogue and action, stressing that it will bring together government and industry players to coordinate national safety priorities.
Kashio, who spoke during a press briefing in Abuja, stated that Nigeria is increasingly becoming a hub for gas deployment, noting that the industry needs to agree on certain safety standards, especially in a country like Nigeria where products are transported by road.
He stated that the Gas Safety Conference 2025 aims to advance a culture of safety by raising awareness, strengthening regulatory compliance, and fostering collaboration across the gas industry.
Besides, he explained that it will raise nationwide awareness of safety protocols among industry operators, policymakers, transporters, retailers,
and end-users to ensure responsible gas handling and usage at every level of the value chain.
In addition, Kashio stated that the conference will support the effective implementation of gas safety regulations by empowering stakeholders with up-to-date guidelines, tools, and training needed to achieve full compliance and operational integrity.
“It will facilitate the exchange of best practices, case studies, and innovations while encouraging coordinated action among institutions on safety strategy, risk mitigation, and emergency preparedness,” he added.
Highlighting the peculiar case of Nigeria which transports its gas by road, the company’s top executive stated that with increasing gas utilisation, safe handling of gas become a very important conversation in the country.
The president spoke on Tuesday, when he inaugurated Connector Road CN8 (Asuquo Okon Way) and other connecting roads in Dakibiyu District, Abuja. He assured that the dividends of the road projects were immediate and enduring.
He said nothing could be a louder proof of the seriousness of a government than the decision to modernise its cities.
He added, “When a city works, when its roads are paved, when its lights stay on, and when its arteries flow without congestion, it tells the world that its government is not just present but purposeful.”
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu stated, “Commutes will shorten. Conges-
tion will ease. And, most crucially, livelihoods will flourish. Shops will open. Markets will thrive. Children will reach school faster. Emergency services will arrive quicker.
“This is what we mean when we speak of Renewed Hope. Not lofty rhetoric but practical impact. Not policy for the sake of politics, but policy translated into progress. This is Renewed Hope poured into concrete and paved across kilometres.”
The president pointed out that while inadequate infrastructure had choked the aspirations of the areas, the inauguration of the roads would breathe life into communities that had been waiting to be seen and served.
He said, “Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, our vision for Abuja is not
limited to its glittering centre. We are equally committed to its outskirts, to its margins, to its hidden corners where dreams often struggle to breathe.
“Every road we build, every bridge we complete, every community we connect is a firm step towards a more inclusive, more equitable Nigeria, the roads are a bold signature of the administration’s commitment to urban renewal and economic revitalisation.”
Tinubu observed that a modern and functional city “inspires confidence, attracts investment, and most importantly, restores the dignity of those who call it home”.
He said a functional national capital served as the foundation upon which a functioning country was built.
Urge FG to Pay €1.1m Debt to OACPS
The House of Representatives yesterday called on the federal government to urgently settle an outstanding debt of €1,119,979.86 owed to the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS).
This resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent national importance moved by the House Majority Whip, Hon. Isiaka Ibrahim, at plenary yesterday. Ibrahim while presenting the motion emphasized that Nigeria is a member of the OACPS, a key international body that promotes cooperation in development, trade, and diplomacy
among its member nations.
He pointed out that Nigeria has benefited significantly from the OACPS, receiving support through various development initiatives that have contributed meaningfully to national development efforts.
He further referenced Section 5 of the OACPS Sanction Policy, which stipulates that member countries must pay their assessed contributions promptly to remain in good standing and avoid sanctions. He informed the House that based on current data, Nigeria’s total assessed contribution to the OACPS amounts to €1,119,979.86. Despite Nigeria’s extensive involve-
ment with the OACPS including benefiting from over €1.7 billion in development grants and investment support through the OACPS-EU Cotonou Partnership Agreement (2000–2020) - Ibrahim expressed concern that the country’s contribution remains unpaid.
He warned that failure to pay this debt could lead to Nigeria’s suspension by the OACPS Secretariat, potentially harming ongoing and future partnerships within the organisation. He added that such a sanction could damage Nigeria’s diplomatic reputation and restrict access to essential development funding and collaborative opportunities.
Deji Elumoye and Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
TINUBU IS KNIGHT
Governor General of Saint Lucia, Mr. Cyril Errol Melchiades Charles (R), conferred on visiting Nigerian President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the title of Knight Commander of the Order of Saint Lucia during a state dinner organised
Juliet Akoje in Abuja
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
INAUGURAL ART COMPETITION AND EXHIBITION BY BABALAKIN & CO...
L-R: One of the judges of the exhibition and respected Economist, Mr. Dotun Sulaiman; Chairman, THISDAY Media Group/ARISE NEWS Channel, Prince Nduka Obaigbena; Principal Partner, Babalakin & Co, Dr.
SAN, and Uche Wigwe of Wigwe &Co ( standing behind Babalakin ), during the Inaugural Art Competition and Exhibition by Babalakin & Co at its office in Victoria Island, Lagos …yesterday
Lokpobiri to
Oil
Firms:
Shape Up Or Ship Out, Tinubu
Has Provided Necessary Incentives for Output Growth
Ojulari says NNPC now able to raise funding for all its businesses Huge gas reserves position Nigeria for energy security, says Ekpo OPEC: Energy demand set to grow by 23% between now and 2050
Emmanuel Addeh and Peter Uzoho in Abuja
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, yesterday read the riot act to oil companies operating in the country to either align with the federal government’s plans for the sector or relinquish their licenses, arguing that the problems of the industry were no longer governance- related.
Speaking at the ongoing Nigeria Oil and Gas (NOG) Week in Abuja, themed: “Accelerating Energy Progress Through Investment, Global Partnerships and Innovation,” Lokpobiri stressed that despite all the incentives provided by the Bola Tinubu administration, the oil companies have failed to raise production, despite several promises.
The minister insisted that it was unacceptable that certain individuals and corporate organisations will acquire the required permits to produce oil and gas, then hold on to them for years without adding to Nigeria’s total output.
According to him, this objective has taken on greater urgency as global financing for oil and gas projects continues to tighten, making it increasingly difficult for all operators to secure the capital needed to develop these assets.
He said: “It is no longer accept-
He maintained that in the ongoing drive to boost national oil production, the federal government remains resolute in ensuring that maximum value is derived from upstream assets currently held by operators.
Winners Emerge at Babalakin & Co Inaugural Art Exhibition
Sunday Ehigiator
Up and coming artists Aaron Ajogwu, Glory Innocent, and Abdlquadr Ojelade, have emerged winners of the maiden edition of the Babalakin & Co (B & C) Art Exhibition, held to mark the firms 37th anniversary, taking home a cumulative prize of N10 million.
The trio emerged winners from a pool of 250 artists who initially put in their works for the exhibition across the country.
Themed, “Tiwan Tiwan”, the exhibition was held as part of B & C’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives to spotlight and leverage emerging Nigerian artists across painting, drawing, and sculpture.
After a careful selection process, Aaron Ajogwu emerged first, winning a cash prize of N5 million.
He was closely followed by Glory Innocent and Abdlquadr Ojelade, who emerged second and third, respectively, with cash prizes of N2.5 million and N1.5 million each.
Ezichi Nkwocha emerged
“Viewer’s Choice Award Winner”, taking home N1 million cash prize.
Speaking on the event, Managing
Partner, Babalakin & Co, Wale Akanni (SAN), stated, “For us at Babalakin & Co, the choice of this concept was very, very deliberate. We took a hard look at the whole landscape, and we thought we were a firm of visionaries. This firm was set up by a visionary in the person of Dr. Wale Babalakin, 37 years ago.
“People did not know that a law practice could be structured and organised the way it is. And as leaders of thought in the legal sphere, we thought it was important to veer off into something very different. And we thought contributing to society is very, very important.
“Art is an area where visionaries are at play. They display their thought process, they display vision, and they capture society in their art. So, it was very important for us.
“It was a deliberate choice. And we chose it knowing that this is the beginning of many episodes to come. We believe that art and law can stay side by side to develop this country and lift us out of the doldrums that we are in. It will be an annual event, and it will always be around this time every year.”
Akanni said, “The take-home for
people here today is that they can see what a well-thought-out process can deliver. It took us a lot of effort to bring this thing to bear. And you can see that the mind of the young Nigerian is very fertile. They can think and develop concepts and ideas.
“Just go through and speak to the artists. They will show you the way their thoughts came out to develop these things. It’s like there is hope for Nigeria.
“There is so much that this country can aspire to become. We should all stop thinking negatively about Nigeria. We believe in this country. There is hope. And I think this hope is what you can see here today.”
Speaking on how the winners emerged, Head of Creative Arts and Sports Law Department, B & C, Dunni Segun-Oki, said, “We wanted to create a platform for young and upcoming Nigerian artists to showcase their talents.
“With the help of an industry expert, we sent out a call for entries to the art society in Nigeria. We received 250 submissions, which were narrowed down to 74 by a panel of four distinguished judges.
“The theme of the exhibition, ‘Tiwa n Tiwa’, aimed to capture what makes Nigerians unique. We asked artists to create pieces that would resonate with every Nigerian, reflecting our society and culture.
“The top four pieces selected are unmistakably Nigerian, tackling issues that are deeply rooted in our culture and society. They are relatable, thought-provoking, and truly representative of the Nigerian experience.”
Speaking to journalists, the firstplace winner, Ajogwu, a graduate of Ahmadu Bello University, stated, “I have four works here with me. One is titled ‘Nature’s Embrace’. It’s a relief sculpture. And then, there is ‘Lagos, A City in Motion’. And then there is ‘The Axe and the Wood’, and ‘Rhythm of the Ancestors.’
“My works are inspired by the beauty of nature, and the efforts in labour, as shown in my works.
“I believe this platform will help my craft in the future. The prize money will help me in getting more materials to produce more art pieces, more unique and original art pieces. And I’m so happy to exhibit my works here in Lagos.”
able for critical national resources to remain in the hands of companies that lack the technical or financial capacity to optimise them or worse, those who use such licenses merely as a lever to access scarce capital, only to divert it to unrelated ventures.
“Our oil and gas industry has witnessed far too many cautionary tales of this nature, and we must now draw a clear line. Let’s be clear: Joint Ventures and Financial/Technical Services Agreements (FTSAs) are not weapons to hold the sector hostage. They are frameworks built on trust that you will act in the nation’s best interest. If you cannot, it’s time to step aside or step up through partnership.
“In this regard, the federal government is prepared to re-evaluate existing partnerships in the oil and gas sector in order to ensure that they align with our strategic national objectives for resource development and economic value creation.”
According to him, the recent mandate by President Bola Tinubu to the new board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) to review all existing operatorship arrangements is not just an administrative exercise, but a clear signal for operators to sit up.
Besides, Lokpobiri insisted that operators must wake up to the responsibility they hold, pointing out that the era of dormant fields and underperforming assets must give way to action, unlock dormant and untapped assets and ensure re-entry of shut-in wells.
“It is worth noting, as a matter of strategic concern, that one company’s production volumes before the enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) were higher than what we are all currently delivering today even with the full benefit of the incentives and business-friendly policies embedded not just in the PIA but, even with the presidential directives.
“So, this cannot be a governance problem. I want to put it to you, the
operators, what happened? How did we get here? And more importantly, what are we going to do differently? We must confront a reality that cannot be ignored. Last year, we stood here and spoke passionately about increasing production. Yet today, we find ourselves asking: what has truly changed? What tangible difference has been made?” the minister asked.. He emphasised that the federal government has implemented farreaching reforms, executive orders, fiscal incentives, streamlined regulatory processes to make the work of operators easier and investment more attractive, without commensurate output growth.
“We cannot continue this way. If we are serious about ramping up production and reclaiming Nigeria’s rightful place among leading oil producers, then every operator must show cause - by performance, not promises.
“We are not just chasing barrels. We are building an economy. One that reflects the aspirations of Nigerians, the commitment of this administration, and the immense potential of our resources.
“The government has done a lot, and is willing to do more, but the results must now speak for themselves. The responsibility is collective, but the obligation to deliver rests first with those holding the assets,” he stressed.
On the African Energy Bank (AEB), he noted that Nigeria was firmly on course and steadily approaching the official launch, explaining that with any institution of this magnitude, it is critical that Nigeria takes the time to cross the T’s and dot the I’s.
Also speaking, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the NNPC, Mr. Bayo Ojulari, who presented NNPC updates on Pipeline Security and JV Cash Call Status at the official opening of the NOG, said the national oil company now has the capacity to raise funds for its businesses.
Wale Babalakin,
PHOTO: KOLAWOLE ALLI
THE GAS KING @ 51...
Health Sector Reforms: Nigeria Plans Exit from Dependence on External Funds, Says Pate
Disburses N32bn Basic Healthcare Provision Fund
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Mohammed Ali Pate, says Nigeria is targeting exiting undue reliance on external funds for implementation of health sector programmes and initiatives.
Pate said Nigeria had for a very long time depended on external financing for its healthcare programmes, stressing that it is now making efforts to reverse this situation in the nearest future.
He said the federal government’s tax reform will boost health funding, as the recent tax bills signed by the president aimed to increase government revenue, which will in turn finance basic services, like healthcare and education.
In furtherance of the initiative to scale up health sector funding, the federal government on Monday announced the disbursement of N32 billion over a six-month period to enhance access to quality healthcare services across Nigeria. Pate disclosed this at the end of the 11th meeting of the Ministerial Oversight Committee (MOC) on health, held in Abuja.
According to Pate, the funds – sourced from the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) – will be released in two tranches: N16 billion for the first quarter, and another N16 billion for the second quarter of the year.He stated, “The Ministerial Oversight Committee (MOC) has ratified two critical disbursement approvals
to ensure seamless implementation of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) in 2025.
“Firstly, the committee approved the application of N32,880,443,906.00 drawn from the first quarter 2025 release towards the implementation of BHCPF activities for both the first and second quarters of the year.
“This represents N16,440,221,953.00 allocated per quarter, in accordance with the provisions of the 2020 BHCPF Guidelines, to ensure continuity and effective use of available resources.”
In addition, the MOC granted approval for the disbursement of N32,880,443,906.25 as the BHCPF Implementation Funds for the third quarter of 2025.
The amount covers the cumulative allocations for April to June 2025 and is expected to be disbursed by the end of August 2025 or as soon as the funds are released by the appropriate authorities.
These approvals reaffirm the MOC’s commitment to timely and efficient health financing to strengthen primary health care delivery and advance progress toward Universal Health Coverage in Nigeria.
Pate, while speaking to journalists at the end of 11th Ministerial Oversight Committee meeting on Monday in Abuja, said the federal government had allocated substantial resources to the health sector in the 2025 budget, including funds to provide essential drugs for those testing positive for various diseases.
Pate explained that the tax reform
was crucial in reducing dependence on external financing.
He stated, “When you create a simplified tax bill, you are increasing government revenue, and it is that government revenue that will finance issues like health, like education, and other things.
“If we can collect more of the resources that are due from taxes, then governments at all levels will have the resources to be able to invest in health.”
Pate added, “The federal government has put resources in the 2025 budget, and the procurement is on the way to provide those drugs to meet up those additional needs arising from the higher testing.”
He emphasised the importance of a collaborative approach between the
federal government, states, and local governments in rebuilding Nigeria’s health system.
“We see federal government, states, and local governments are very integral partners in this effort that we are making. No one level can do it alone,” he stated.
The guidelines for dissemination of BHCPF received provisional approval at the 10th MOC and is scheduled to occur before the end of third quarter of 2025, offering an updated framework to strengthen implementation, coordination, and accountability.
The MOC resolved to increase the visibility of health sector reforms and positive outcomes, including through improved strategic communication, documentation of success stories, and
enhanced media engagement.
Speaking earlier, Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, stated that progress was being made in Nigeria’s health sector reforms, particularly in the implementation of the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF).
According to Salako, the Ministerial Oversight Committee’s involvement in the reforms reflects the level of inclusiveness and transparency being employed by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in implementation of the basic healthcare provision fund.
Salako said the approach was driving more involvement at the sub-national level, civil society organisations, and synergy among government agencies.
The minister stated the impact of the presidential directive on unlocking the healthcare value chain, saying it is being felt and reported.
“You can also see that from that meeting the impact of the presidential order around the unlocking the healthcare value chain is being felt, it’s being reported,” he said.
Salako said the revitalisation of primary healthcare was a key agenda of the President Bola Tinubu administration, and the results were being seen.
Ekiti State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oyebanji Filani, who is also the Chairman of the Health Commissioners’ Forum, commended the efforts of the federal government and other stakeholders to improve the healthcare sector.
NiMet Warns Nigerians to Brace for Climate Variability and Extreme Weather Events
Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Tuesday, warned Nigerians to be prepared and resilient in the face of climate variability and extreme weather events.
The agency, during a one-day sensitisation forum for journalists and civil society organisations in
Minister: MTN Data Centre Will Unlock Productivity, Diversify Economy Beyond Oil
Emma OKonji
The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has said MTN Tier III Data Centre aligns directly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision to grow a $1 trillion economy by unlocking productivity, powering enterprise, and diversifying Nigeria’s economy beyond oil through innovation and inclusion.
Corroborating the minister’s statement, the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu also said the Tier III Data Centre facility would raise the bar for secure, scalable and efficient enterprise services that are critical enablers of businesses, public services, startups and multinational corporations alike.
Both the minister and the
governor said this yesterday in Lagos, during the launch of Phase 1 of MTN Tier III Data Centre and local cloud located in Ikeja, Lagos, with a total expandable IT capacity load of 4.5 megawatts.
The minister said: “The facility is part of the digital foundation of that modern economy that we see. One that provides, and will continue to provide reliable and secure data computing and storage for small and large enterprises, including government data.
“It is only through this kind of infrastructure that we can truly enable sovereignty, trust, and also boost national productivity.”
According to him, the data centre facility connects directly to government’s project like the national fiber rollout that will deliver
90,000 kilometers of connectivity across Nigeria.
It’s also tied to the planned deployment of 7,000 communication towers in unserved and underserved communities, bringing meaningful connectivity to over 20 million Nigerians who are currently offline.
“Together, these efforts ensure that every citizen, regardless of their location, will have access and contribute to our digital economy. As we all know, talent will always need platforms.
“Investments like the MTN Data Centre that is named after MTN’s former Chief Executive Officer, Sifiso Dabengwa, that we’re here to launch, offers the platform for our young people to be able to thrive.
Abuja, highlighted the critical role of accurate weather forecasts and early warnings in safeguarding lives and livelihoods.
It said the forum aimed to strengthen existing synergies between NiMet, journalists, and civil society organisations, and empower them with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively disseminate critical weather information to the public.
Director-General, NiMet, Professor Charles Anosike, in his opening address at the event, encouraged participants to work actively towards
a common goal of having a “better informed, better prepared and more resilient” populace in the face of climatic changes and extreme weather conditions.
Anosike stated that the agency’s success depended not only on the accuracy of its forecasts but also on effective communication. He emphasised the strategic role of the media in communicating scientific data to the public.
Anosike highlighted recent measures taken to improve service delivery, including staff training and
welfare issues.
He said, “The forum marked an important step in enhancing collaboration between NiMet and key stakeholders, ultimately contributing to the agency’s mission of providing best-quality services to the nation.”
Director of Weather Forecasting Service, Professor Vincent Weli, stated that weather and climate had a direct impact on everyday life. Weli said the media played a vital role in informing the public about the weather.
Minister Calls for Review of Taxation in Enugu
Gideon Arinze in Enugu
The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has urged the Enugu State Government to review what he described as high taxation on residents of the state.
Nnaji made the call yesterday, during a rally at Aku town in Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area of the state where he led other leaders of the of the All-Progressives Congress (APC) to receive over 5,000 defectors into the Enugu State Chapter of the party.
In his address, Nnaji said the state has emerged as one of the most expensive places to be, both in terms of housing and business due largely to the rate of taxes
imposed on the people by the state government.
“Today in Enugu, we are facing a major economic quagmire. Today in Enugu, we are at the bottom as the most expensive city in Nigeria. Enugu is a civil service town, yet it remains one of the most expensive city in Nigeria,” he said.
The minister stated the massive defection into the APC across the state showed the people are beginning to acknowledge the projects being executed by the President Bola Tinubu administration in the state.
While noting the APC in the state had been repositioned to take over the government of Enugu State in 2027, he appealed to the people of the state to support the
party and President Bola Tinubu’s re-election to attract more federal appointments and infrastructure to the state. The minister also used the occasion to promise more employment opportunities for young people across the state as well federal infrastructure that will give the people a sense of belonging. Also speaking, the state chairman of the party Ugochukwu Agballa commended President Tinubu for the ongoing reconstruction of the Ninth Mile-Opi-Makurdi road and other federal projects in the state, noting that it was an indication of his commitment to reposition the region for better economic opportunities.
Kasim Sumaina in Abuja
Dr. Julius Rone, OFR, Group CEO, UTM Offshore (2nd from left); His wife, Utee (left); Dan Akpovwa, Chairman, Abuja Inquirer Newspaper (right); and Dr. Aisha Achimugu, an industrialist, during celebrations to mark the 51st birthday of Dr. Rone in Abuja last week
NESG: With Proper Execution, Reforms Will Ensure Equitable, Efficient Tax System
Edun reiterates call for fiscal reform, global tax justice at UN finance summit
Nume Ekeghe and Dike Onwuamaeze
The Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) has declared that the 2025 tax reform acts, which birthed four tax laws, hold the promise of bequeathing to Nigeria a more equitable, efficient, and transparent tax system provided its implementation is timely, inclusive, and firmly rooted in transparency and accountability.
It expressed these views in its occasional paper series titled: “The 2025 Nigerian Tax Reform Acts: Taxing the Fruits, Not the Seed,” which was released yesterday.
The four new tax laws are the Nigeria Tax Act 2025; Nigeria Tax Administration Act 2025; Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act 2025 and Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Act 2025.
The signing into law by President Bola Tinubu on June 26, 2025, according to the NESG, laid the “groundwork for a more transparent, efficient, and pro-growth tax system” in Nigeria.
The NESG also pointed out that Nigeria’s tax system has long been plagued by complexity, weak enforcement, and low public trust, stressing that the new reforms aim to reverse this situation by making taxation simpler, fairer, and more focused on value and productivity.
“Thus, the core principle is to ‘tax the fruit, not the seed’—targeting profits and consumption, not earlystage income or small businesses,” it added.
According to the NESG, the 2025 tax reforms mark a major step forward in Nigeria’s fiscal evolution, noting that for individuals, especially low-income earners, the reforms offer relief through exemptions on wages, essential goods, and job-loss compensation.
“For small businesses, reduced tax levies, including income and withholding taxes, are expected to ease compliance burdens and stimulate growth. Larger businesses will benefit from input tax credits, though they must meet stricter compliance requirements,” it said.
The NESG said that the objectives
of the new tax laws are to simplify the tax system, broaden the base, protect vulnerable groups, and improve tax collection and accountability.
“In specific terms, the newly enacted tax reform laws pursue several policy, institutional and economic goals, which are to “increase domestic revenue mobilisation and raise Nigeria’s tax-to-GDP ratio to 18
per cent within five years, thereby reducing reliance on oil revenue and debt financing of public expenditures,” it added.
Other objectives of the tax reform laws are to simplify and harmonise the tax system by merging fragmented tax laws into a coherent framework in a manner that would make compliance easy for individuals and businesses.
The NESG also said the new laws would help Nigeria modernise tax administration with the establishment of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) with the mandate to collect and account for all revenues accruing to the federation.
It said: “In addition, the digitalisation of all aspects of tax administration aims to improve efficiency and curb leakages.”
It also said that transparency and taxpayers’ confidence would be enhanced with the introduction of a Tax Tribunal and Tax Ombudsman to resolve disputes and protect taxpayer rights.
The NESG also stated that the laws would promote fairness and equity with its exemption of essentials like food and medicine from VAT.
“It would also simplify compliance for micro and small businesses earning under N50 million annually and foster the strengthening of intergovernmental coordination through the setting up of a Joint Revenue Board to align federal, state, and local tax policies. Also, it will revise revenue-sharing
mechanisms to reward productivity while preserving equity,” it said.
The NESG also remarked that the newly introduced tax laws would support economic competitiveness and growth by lowering compliance costs to attract investment.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, has reiterated the importance of fiscal reforms and stronger international cooperation to support economic growth especially in developing countries like Nigeria.
Speaking at the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4) in Sevilla, Spain, yesterday, Edun said it was time to rebalance the global financial system to better reflect the needs and realities of developing economies. In a statement signed by Director, Information and Public Relations, Mohammed Manga, Edun highlighted Nigeria’s reforms to improve tax administration, drive fiscal discipline, and create an enabling environment for private sector investment.
Saint Lucia Confers Highest National Honour on Tinubu
Nigerian president pledges to deepen cooperation in education, others St. Lucian president says event historic
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
Saint Lucia has conferred its highest national honour, Knight Commander of the Order of Saint Lucia (KCOSL), on President Bola Tinubu, in recognition of his efforts to strengthen the historical and cultural bonds between Africa and the Caribbeans.
According to a statement yesterday by the presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, the formal investiture was performed by the Governor General of Saint Lucia, Errol Charles, on Monday night at the official reception for Tinubu at the Government House, Morne Fortune, Saint Lucia.
Tinubu, who will now add ‘sir’ to his numerous titles, expressed deep appreciation to the government and people of Saint Lucia for the honour, the statement added.
Currently on a state visit to the Caribbean nation, the Nigerian president said he was humbled to receive the honour, noting that the recognition symbolised a deepening of historic and cultural connections between Nigeria and Saint Lucia.
He pledged to strengthen the ties between Nigeria and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) member states.
“I am here as one of you representing that historical journey taken by our forebears, the history that we cannot reserve, but are prepared for progressive understanding. I am greatly honoured, on behalf of my country, on behalf of nearly 220 million people in Nigeria, to stand before you to thank you very much. I came here as a president, but I’m leaving as a knight,” the president said.
Tinubu described the experience as “thrilling and exciting,” praising the warmth and generosity of the Saint Lucian people.
He said: “It cannot be more thrilling, more exciting, and welcoming than that. You are great people. I thank the Prime Minister and His Excellency, the Governor-General for seeing me worthy of this honour and knighthood”.
Reflecting on his earlier address to the Saint Lucian Parliament on Monday, the president reaffirmed his commitment to deepening cooperation between Nigeria and the OECS.
He added: “I addressed the Parliament earlier today. I made some promises to enhance our connectivity and business opportunities, foster creativity in our future together, and help us overcome the legacy of our forebears’ years of separation.
“To see that we can resume cultural exchanges and believe in economic development is a responsibility that we must live up to”.
Highlighting the industry of the
African and Caribbean peoples, Tinubu stressed that both regions must continue to work together in pursuit of prosperity.
“The black race is not lazy. We are hardworking and honest people. Given the opportunity, we can excel. We believe life itself has given us what we need. We have no cause to regret, and we have every reason to celebrate life, opportunity, and excellence. I come from a country where the people are incredibly hardworking and democratic in every aspect. We are good at agriculture and trading,” he said.
In his speech, the Governor General
explained that with the investiture, the Nigerian leader will now be known as “Sir Bola Ahmed Tinubu, KCOSL (Hon.) President and Commanderin-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
According to him, the national honour acknowledged Tinubu’s leadership on the African continent and his ongoing efforts to strengthen ties between Africa and the Caribbean.
It also reflected Saint Lucia’s appreciation for President Tinubu’s commitment to fostering cooperation across key areas of mutual interest, including trade and investment, climate resilience, healthcare, educa-
tion, and cultural exchange, he said. He added that the honour affirmed a shared vision for global South solidarity, rooted in historical connection and future collaboration, describing Tinubu’s visit to the country as historic.
“Today is a historic occasion for us, particularly for our many St. Lucian brothers and sisters, whose ancestors were rudely torn from their tribal homelands in Africa and deposited on these shores centuries ago.
“Deeper than the bonds of friendship is that deep kindred spirit transplanted generations ago in these islands, that elevates your visit to
the status of a visiting relative, with all accompanying joy and goodness that such rare events allow,” he said.
Also speaking, Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, Philip Pierre, praised the Nigerian leader for accepting the highest honour and reinforcing the ties that unite Nigeria and the member states of the OECS.
He said: “For St. Lucia and the OECS, part of our heritage lies in Africa, and we are proud of it. We want to develop it and ensure that the people of these two regions get closer together, because Africa and the region can be one and must be one.
“We are just eight hours away
OPPOSITION COALITION FORMALLY ADOPTS ADC, UNVEILS PARTY, INTERIM EXCO TODAY
Already, upon the adoption of ADC, the coalition appointed former Senate President David Mark as its national chairman and former governor of Osun State and immediate past Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, as national secretary, while former Minister of Sports, Bolaji Abdullahi, was made spokesperson of the party.
Some prominent leaders of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) called on other members of the party to join the coalition ahead of the 2027 election.
Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar; mark; former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido; former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tom Ikimi; former Nigeria’s Ambassador to China, Aminu Wali; and former National Chairman of PDP, Uche Secondus, were among the party’s leaders, who called for a rethink of the current political situation.
They contended that both the opposition PDP and the ruling APC had failed Nigeria and Nigerians. Nonetheless, after a marathon meeting, which ended a few minutes past midnight, the coalition crossed a major hurdle in its quest to play a major role in the 2027 general election and its resolve to upstage the ruling APC.
The coalition had earlier indicated interest in registering a new party, All Democratic Alliance (ADA), after initial talks with ADC and Social Democratic Party (SDP) had broken down. But when it seemed like the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was going to frustrate a new registration effort, it re-strategised and resumed talks with ADC.
While ADC is believed to share very strong affiliation with a former president (name withheld), the renewed talks with the original owners of the party seemed to have yielded some good, resulting
in the eventual adoption of the party and the unveiling billed to hold at 2pm today.
Aregbesola was said to have initially turned down the nomination after someone believed to be close to him allegedly asked him not to accept it. But after much pressure, he eventually agreed to work with the coalition.
Accepting his appointment as national secretary, Aregbesola said, “It is with deep humility, profound sense of duty and unwavering hope for our people, nation, race and party that I accept the appointment as the national secretary of our great party.”
He spoke further, “Let me begin by saying this: a political party is not a platform for opportunism. It is not a mere vehicle to power for the few, not a tool for personal ambition. A political party, in its truest form, is a living institution built on values, guided by ideals and accountable to the people it seeks to serve.
“Throughout Africa’s history and, particularly, in the legacy of the African National Congress (ANC) of South Africa – a 113 year-behemoth of party organisation that is impeccable in its credibility as a model of supremacy of party over its creation (government and popularly elected officials), (we have) seen what a party grounded in ideology, principle and people-centred struggle can achieve.
“The ANC is not perfect but it stands for something. It was forged in resistance, sharpened by vision and led by men and women who believe in justice, dignity, equality, inclusivity of all interests and true freedom. It has character. It has soul. It is, therefore, a true platform for the expression of their aspirations.
“Sadly, in Nigeria today, we cannot say the same about many of our political parties. Our political landscape is plagued by parties that lack ideological depth. They are empty shells, merging and splitting,
not over policy or principle, but over power and personality. There is little regard for the people and even less for the country.
“That is not the kind of party we must be. That is not the kind of party I will serve. As the national secretary, I will work to build a party that has a clear ideological compass; a party that is absolutely committed to the people, rooted in democratic values, rule of law, social justice, accountability, transparency, and national development.
“A party that listens and works for the people, not only during elections, but every single day. We must become an institution where internal democracy is not just preached but practised; intra-party competition is transparent, fair and just; all party structures from the ward to the national level function effectively and efficiently; young people, women, and the marginalised have a real voice, not symbolic inclusion.”
Aregbesola said, “All special and critical interests – security, educators, farmers, workers, women, youth, professionals, people with special needs, etc – must be recognised and allowed to have autonomous structures within the party.”
According to the former governor, “We will model international best practices in party organisation, administration and ethics. We will study what works, from South Africa to Sweden, from Chile to Kenya, and adapt what fits our local reality. Discipline, order, clarity of purpose and service to the people must define us.
“We must be the party that talks about public education and actually builds schools. That speaks of security and supports real policies to keep our communities safe. That believes in jobs and works to create them. That stands for Nigeria, not just during elections but in everyday governance. This is not an easy task.
It will take time. It will demand sacrifice.
“But it can be done.”
Earlier, in a communique by the PDP stalwarts, who operated under the auspices of Concerned Leaders of the PDP, signed by Mark, the group said, “The meeting encourages all well-meaning PDP members and other patriotic Nigerians to join the coalition.
“All coalition partners must be united on the issues of national unity, democracy, national security, national economy, and the political will to stamp out corruption embedded in our institutions.
“The coalition partners to work out the modalities of winning all elections taking into consideration local and national peculiarities.”
Other PDP leaders, who attended the meeting, were a former governor of Cross River State, Lylel Imoke; former governor of Niger State, Babangida Aliyu; former governor of Ebonyi State, Sam Egwu; former governor of Sokoto, Aminu Tambuwal; and former governor of Benue State, Gabriel Suswam.
Also at the meeting were former Minister of Police Affairs, Adamu Maina Waziri; Senator Tunde Ogbeha; Senator Ben Obi; Mrs. Josephine Anenih; former PDP National Financial Secretary, Abdullahi Maibasira; former PDP National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan; Senator Abdul Ninge; and former National Organising Secretary, Senator Austin Akobundu.
According to the communique, “The meeting of Concerned Leaders of our great Party PDP was called to discuss the disturbing condition the party has been sunk into.
“Since our loss in the last presidential election and the exit of Dr. Iyorchia Ayu as National Chairman, our dear party has never been the same again.
“Vested interests from within
from Africa. We have to establish links so that our people can know what is happening in the motherland, and we can enjoy the fruits of what Africa has produced.”
In a separate visit to the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College in Morne Fortune, Castries, on the fourth day of his State Visit to Saint Lucia, Tinubu engaged with faculty, staff, and students of the institution named after the 1979 Nobel Laureate in Economic Sciences, Sir Arthur Lewis. He stressed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening collaboration with Saint Lucia in education, culture, and technology.
and the irresponsible actions of the APC-led federal government, which has been using state institutions to stifle and destroy the democracy, knows no bounds!
“The inability of PDP leadership to lead the party by its constitution, rules and regulations led it into a chaotic and undisciplined party.”
The communique stated further, “The vision of the founding fathers for which the party was established and the role it played in restoring Nigeria as a stable and united country and key player on the regional, continental, and global stage have been washed away, just as our role as the leader of the black race is now overtaken by smaller and less endowed countries.
“Painfully, Nigeria is now a diminished country and an embarrassment on the world stage. The meeting took time to deliberate deeply on the issues of democracy, national unity, national security, economy, corruption, governance, and other concerns plaguing our country.”
The communique stated, “Arising from the above, the meeting hereby resolved as follows: the APC government, which came into being on the false and evil propaganda, to save Nigeria from PDP, is now a disaster to our nation and, therefore, must be voted out of power.
“All indices of development that support the comfort and quality of lives of the citizens have collapsed, and life is now hell in Nigeria. The PDP, which is organic with the discipline, capacity, and history to lead and save Nigeria, is now a shadow of its old self.
“The heatwave unleashed by the APC federal government through threats, blackmail and patronage has forced elected officers in government to abandon the PDP.
“The adopted political party for the coalition will be unveiled Wednesday in Asokoro, Abuja.”
Edun
ADIDAS IN MARINA HOUSE...
L-R: CEO, Adidas Global Emerging Markets, Dave Thomas receiving a Lagos State Government Plaque from the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, during a courtesy visit at Lagos House, Marina ... yesterday
Two Kano Emirs Join Tajudeen, Dangote, Sayyu, FG Team in Medina to Bury Aminu Dantata
Scores of northern leaders, govs also in attendance Senate postpones north west constitution review hearing to honour the deceased, other zonal hearings proceed as scheduled
Sunday Aborisade and Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
Two Emirs of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II and Aminu Ado Bayero, yesterday, joined the son of the late billionaire business mogul, Alhaji Aminu Dantata, Tajudeen Dantata, his nephew, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Sayyu Dantata and the delegation of the federal government in Madinah, Saudi Arabia, to bury the deceased.
Also at the burial ceremony held at the Al-Baqi Cemetery, following
Jana’iza prayers at the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, were scores of northern leaders and governors. At the same time, the Senate has postponed the North-West Zonal Public Hearing on the review of the 1999 Constitution following the passing of Dantata.
The postponement was announced yesterday at plenary, as lawmakers observed a minute silence in honour of the late elder statesman.
Dantata, a key promoter of the Kano Foundation and an influential figure
in Nigerian business and philanthropy, passed away on June 28 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, at the age of 94.
Son of the deceased, Tajudeen Dantata, and one of his nephews, Dangote arrived in Madinah yesterday morning with the body, accompanied by other family members.
The federal delegation, led by the Minister of Defence and former Governor of Jigawa State, Alhaji Muhammad Badaru Abubakar, departed Nigeria late Sunday and arrived in Madinah in the early hours of Monday.
The delegation included the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN; the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris; the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Honourable Yusuf Abdullahi Ata; and Hassan Abdullahi, Director of Internal Security at the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), representing the NSA.
Prominent Islamic clerics also accompanied the delegation. They
ECOWAS Promises Protection of Human Rights in West Africa
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has promised to further promote, respect and protect the human rights of citizens of the region.
In an opening remark at the Regional Consultation of National Human Rights Institutions in West Africa organised by the ECOWAS Commission, Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), the Commissioner on Political Affairs Peace and Security, ECOWAS Commission Ambassador Abdel-Fatau Musah, said there is a need for a new beginning where the human rights of community citizens are further promoted, respected, and
protected in a society where every individual lives with dignity, where justice prevails and where peace and development are realities, not aspirations across member states.
Ho noted the three-day consultation holding under the theme “Justice for Africans and People of Africa Descent Through Reparations: The Role of NHRIs,” places paramount importance on reparatory justice for Africans and people of African descent to addressing historic injustices, including the trans-Atlantic slave trade, colonialism, apartheid, and genocides.
“However, ECOWAS believes that the scope of this conversation should go beyond historical injustices and into the current realities of our societies as it relates to the enjoyment of rights by the
right-holders and reparations of human rights violation in the region.
“This should necessitate our collective call and advocacy for a human right-based approach to reparatory justice for both past and present injustice and human rights violations.”
On his part, the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, urged all participants from ECOWAS countries to take advantage of the consultation to engage actively, make insightful contributions and renew their unwavering commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights in the West African subregion.
Fagbemi, represented by the Chairperson of National Human Rights Commission (NHRC),
Salamatu Sulaiman, said: “National Human Rights Institutions have emerged as very important actors in the protection of human rights in our various domains. Our unique mandate to protect, promote and enforce human rights has positioned us to lead in the realization of the theme of this consultation.”
He added that: “With collaboration and commitments from various stakeholders to work together towards a unified agenda for reparative justice, the objectives of this consultation can be easily achieved. Our voices must guide our actions, ensuring that reparations address the needs of Africans, restore dignity, and foster reconciliation.”
He assured that Nigeria remains resolute in its commitment to advancing reparative justice.
included Dr. Bashir Aliyu Umar, Sheikh Aminu Ibrahim Daurawa, and Khalifa Abdullahi Muhammad, Imam of the Dantata Mosque in Abuja. They were joined by officials from the Nigerian Consulate General in Jeddah, led by Ambassador Ibrahim Moddibbo.
He was accompanied by Ambassador Muazzam Ibrahim Nayaya and Defence Attaché Major General Adamu Hassan, who coordinated arrangements for the funeral.
Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin; and the immediate past Chairman of APC, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, were present at the burial, alongside the Governors of Kano and Jigawa States, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf and Alhaji Umar Namadi, respectively.
Dangote also led other family members and close associates to honour the late patriarch.
This was as the statement by Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Rabiu Ibrahim, hinted at how the late Dantata was buried.
Meanwhile, the North-West Zonal Public Hearing on the review of the 1999 Constitution, originally scheduled to be held in Kano this weekend, was postponed out of respect for his passing and in recognition of his legacy.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio made the announcement after an executive session yesterday.
He noted the decision was reached due to the involvement of the Senate’s leadership in the funeral arrangements. He stated a new date for the NorthWest hearing would be determined after consultations with stakeholders in the region.
Deputy Senate President and Chairman of the Senate Ad-Hoc
Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, Senator Barau Jibrin, is leading the North-West zonal hearing. He, has however, travelled to Saudi Arabia as head of the federal government delegation for Dantata’s funeral, which was scheduled to take place (yesterday), Tuesday, July 1. While the North-West hearing has been put on hold, the other five zonal public hearings will proceed as scheduled on Friday, July 5, and Saturday, July 6. These are to be held in Lagos (South-West), Enugu (South-East), Ikot Ekpene (South-South), Jos (North-Central), and Maiduguri (North-East).
The hearings are part of an extensive national engagement process aimed at gathering input from Nigerians on proposed amendments to the 1999 Constitution.
High on the agenda are far-reaching reforms, including calls for the creation of 31 new states, the establishment of state police, local government autonomy, electoral reforms, and gender representation.
According to Senator Jibrin’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, the hearings will feature robust discussions on over 50 proposed constitutional amendments.
Key among these is a bill seeking to enshrine the autonomy of local government councils and define their tenure through constitutional guarantees.
This is complemented by another bill proposing the establishment of an independent National Local Government Electoral Commission (NALGEC), which would take over the conduct and supervision of local government elections across the country.
AFTER PLENARY...
L-R: Senators Sharafadeen Alli, Saliu Mustapha, Adams Oshiomhole, Adeola Olamilekan, Anthony Ani; President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio; Deputy Senate Leader, Lola Ashiru; and Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, after yesterday’s plenary
ILO Pushes for Total Ban, Elimination of Child Labour By 2025
As Nigeria grapples with socioeconomic challenges posed by child labour, the International Labour Organisation (ILO) has urged the country to aspire for total prohibition and elimination of the scourge.
ILO Country Director for Nigeria, Vennesa Phala, who made the charge during commemoration of the 2025 World Day Against Child Labour in Abuja on Tuesday, said Nigeria is currently striving to achieve the SDG Target 8.7 which focusses on ending forced labour, modern slavery, human trafficking, and the worst forms of child labour, including the recruitment and use of child soldiers
She also said that Nigeria is signatory to laws and international Labour standards that promote elimination of child labour yet the menace still persists.
Her words: “While Nigeria strives to achieve the SDG Target 8.7 which focusses on ending forced labour, modern slavery, human trafficking, and the worst forms of child labour, including the recruitment and use of child soldiers still occur.
“As an Alliance 8.7 Country, we should aim to secure the prohibition
and elimination of all forms of child labour by 2025.
“We must speed up efforts on enforcement of laws to end child labour”.
Phala said globally the number of children (aged between 6-17 yours) in child labour and hazardous work, reduced by 22 million from 160 million to about 138 million, since the last global estimates in 2020.
She also said there are over 100 million fewer children in child labour today than in 2000, even as the child population increased by 230 million over the same period.
The ILO Country Director used the opportunity to call for immediate action by the National Assembly (both the Senate and House of Representatives), the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment and all stakeholders to facilitate a speedy passage of the reviewed Labour Standards Bill for the Country.
“The Labour standards bill once passed into law will align the country’s labour laws with international standards and promote social Justice in Nigeria.
“It will address the needs of workers in the informal sector, protection of workers’ rights, enforcement and
sanctions,” she said.
Phala spoke of progress being made to reduce child labour by Nigeria.
According to her, the country’s enacted Child Rights Act (2003) prohibits children in the 5-11 age group from engaging in economic activity but allows children 12-14
years old to engage in light work, while those, aged 15-17 are allowed to be involved in economic activities that are not hazardous.
Speaking on the efforts to address the problem of child labour, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Alhaji Maigari Dingyadi, said the federal government is working to
build a country where every child can grow up safe, educated and full of dreams that can translate to reality. When asked by one of students invited to the event whether there are sanctions backed law against the practice of child labour, the minister said there is none yet but that the
ministry is promoting awareness on the issue.
He said that part of measures by government is to try to improve on the living condition of every Nigerian so that each family will be able to carter for the needs of the children including training them in schools
Momodu Canvasses Compulsory NDLEA Integrity Test for Teachers, Students, Drivers, Others
Linus Aleke in Abuja
Retired Deputy Commander General and ex-Director of Technical Services at the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Sule Momodu, has called for a compulsory NDLEA integrity test for teachers, students, drivers, politicians, health professionals, and top public servants in the country to forestall the increasing case of drug and substance abuse in Nigeria. He also called on the National Assembly to enact legislation that will make the NDLEA integrity test compulsory for Nigerians.
Lagos Govt Commences Ban Enforcement on Disposable Plastics Use in State
Segun James
The Lagos State Government has begun the immediate enforcement of the ban on Single Use Plastics across the state, warning that defaulters would face the full wrath of the law.
The Commissioner for the Environmental and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, who disclosed this insisted there will be no going back on the commencement date.
The government had given the 1st of July 2025 for the beginning of the enforcement.
He stated that the state was very explicit on the ban of certain categories of single use plastics excluding pure water sachets and pet bottles as explained when the ban on styrofoam food containers was announced in January 2024.
He added that if after 18 months moratorium, the producers have not been able to embrace alternatives to single use plastics, it simply means they have no intention of complying with the ban.
Wahab explained that by January 2025, after series of meetings and representations from concerned stakeholders which included (Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) Restaurants and Food Services Proprietors Association of Nigeria (RFSPAN) and (FBRA) Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance representatives) amongst others, the state gave another grace of 6 months which expired yesterday.
He said the state government took the bold decision to ban styrofoam food containers and single use plastics of less than 40 microns explaining that the decision was majorly because of the safety and wellbeing of residents which the government will never compromise.
“Lagos as a coastal state realises the enormous dangers that styrofoam packs & SUPs of less than 40 microns cause our drainage channels and ecosystem causing blockades and compelling government to channel funds that
should be deployed for provision of other social services to clearing of debris from our drains,” he said.
He stated that the ban of single use plastics was first effected in Bangladesh in 2002 as well as in other major cities and as at 1st of August, 2019, such bans have been introduced in over 70 countries of the world with varying degrees of enforcement whilst 33 countries have imposed a charge per bag policy.
According to him, “For avoidance of doubt, the affected items and reasons for the ban include styrofoam packs which was banned due to their harmful environmetal impacts.
“Plastic straws-prohibited to reduce plastic wastes and promote sustainablity. Disposable plastic cups and cutleries which was banned to minimize plastic pollution in the environment and light weight nylon bags, banned due to its non-reusable and non-bio degradable quality” he added.
A report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime indicates that 14.4 percent (14.3 million) of people aged between 15&64 years abuse drugs in Nigeria.
Additionally, statistical analysis of the findings of a 2015 nationwide survey of 10,609 respondents showed that alcohol is the drug with the highest prevalence rate, while cannabis is the most abused illicit drug.
The national survey further revealed that drug abuse in Nigeria is prevalent across educational levels and reaches down to the secondary school level.
Nigeria is a transit country for heroin and cocaine destined for Europe and, to a lesser degree, the United States.
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) frequently arrests drug couriers at Murtala Mohammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos.
To curb this troubling trend on use of drug by future leaders, the retired Deputy Commander General, Sule Momodu, in a chat with THISDAY advocated the vigorous pursuit of establishing drug-free clubs in secondary and tertiary institutions across the country as part of the way to address the menace.
According to him, “I call for a compulsory NDLEA integrity test for teachers in various sectors of educational institutions and for students. The students need to undergo the NDLEA integrity test
before they are admitted into school and repeat the test when they return to school after a holiday.
“Drivers should also be compelled by law to be tested before obtaining their licence and during renewal. The National Assembly should pass legislation that makes it compulsory for this to take place.
“Students going for NYSC should undergo an NDLEA drug integrity test, and the presentation of the NDLEA drug integrity test certificate should be one of the conditions to be met before registration.
“Young couples preparing to formalise their matrimony should also be made to carry out the integrity test. This is in addition to those seeking public offices.
2010 ‘Doctrine of Necessity’: Fagbemi
Extols Late Justice Abutu for Role
Alex Enumah in Abuja
Encomiums freely flowed in praise of former Chief Judge (CJ) of the Federal High Court, late Justice Dan Abutu, with the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, recalling Abutu’s role in the invocation of the “Doctrine of Necessity” in 2010.
Nigeria was experiencing a constitutional crisis between late 2009 and 2010, when then late President Umaru Yar’Adua traveled out of the country on health grounds without transmitting powers to Vice President Goodluck Jonathan.
As part of efforts at resolving the deadlock, the judiciary was called upon to interpret Section 145 of the Constitution, which provides for how the vice-president can
operate as acting president when the president is temporarily unable to discharge his functions.
Recalling the incident at a valedictory service held on Tuesday in Abuja, Fagbemi stated that Abutu, “doused the growing tension by interpreting Section 145 of the 1999 Constitution to mean that the president cannot be compelled to transmit the notice, that is the president cannot be compelled to surrender or abdicate presidential powers without following procedures set out in the Constitution”.
The AGF who was represented by the Director, Civil Appeal, Federal Ministry of Justice, Mr. Tijani Gazali, SAN, observed the National Assembly “subsequently built on this foundation by making the historic invocation of the doctrine of necessity through which the acting president was conferred with full powers of the
president and commander-in-chief”. He added the development also spurred further legislative action to prevent a reoccurrence of such constitutional lacuna through the alteration that introduced Section 145(2) of the 1999 Constitution to the effect that: in the event that the president is unable or fails to transmit the written declaration mentioned in subsection (1) of this section within 21 days, the National Assembly Shall, by a resolution made by a simple majority of the vote of each House of the National Assembly, mandate the vice-president to perform the functions of the office of the president as acting president until the president transmits a letter to the President of the Senate and Speaker of the House of Representatives that he is now available to resume his functions as president.”
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE ON THE GUIDELINES ON CORPORATE GOVERNANCE, 2025
The Nigerian Communications Commission hereby notifies all its Licensees and Industry Stakeholders that the Guidelines on Corporate Governance, 2025 (the Guidelines) is operative. Based on a Regulatory Impact Assessment (RIA), which the Commission conducted on the Guidelines prior to its being finalised, the Commission has adopted a phased approach to implementing the Guidelines.
The first phase of implementation will cover the following category of Licences:
i. Unified Access Service Licence;
ii. International Data Access Licence;
iii. Private Networks Links Licence;
iv. Co-location and Infrastructure Sharing Licence
v. Interconnect Exchange Licence; and
vi. Internet Service Provision Licence (Licensees with Significant Market Share).
For ease of compliance and to guide Licensees in compiling their reports, the Commission has developed a Compliance Reporting Template, in alignment with provisions of the Guidelines. The Guidelines and Reporting Template have been published on the website of the Commission and can be accessed on www.ncc.gov.ng. All licensees are required to avail themselves of the documents for guidance.
Please note that the Commission expects strict compliance with the Guidelines, which is aimed at promoting the sustainability of the Telecommunications industry. Accordingly, the Commission will not hesitate to exercise its enforcement powers under the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, the Nigerian Communications (Enforcement Processes, etc.,) Regulations, 2019 and all other relevant Regulations, for non-compliance with same.
Dated this 2nd Day of July, 2025.
Signed: Nnenna Ukoha Head, Public Affairs Department
Constitution Review: The Defining Test Before 10th Senate
Sunday Aborisade x-rays hurdles before the 10th Senate as it commences another round of constitution review amid familiar beginning and candid optimism
In July 2024, Nigeria’s 10th Senate revived the constitutional amendment exercise, which is a process as old as the 1999 Constitution itself, through its Constitution Review Committee, chaired by the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin.
This time, however, the ambition appears larger, and the stakes, higher. The Committee is reviewing 87 priority bills that cut across critical national concerns: local government autonomy, state policing, judicial and electoral reform, fiscal federalism, gender inclusion, and procedural governance.
The importance of this moment cannot be overstated. Since 1999, successive amendment efforts have suffered from a chronic lack of direction, elite dominance, and meagre outcomes.
Investigations revealed that between 2011 and today, over 12.85 billion has been spent on constitutional amendments—with limited tangible results.
The infamous failed third-term agenda of 2006, and the lacklustre 2011 and 2021 exercises, have left many Nigerians skeptical, even cynical. This Senate must not only confront this legacy—it must transcend it.
There are signs that the 10th Senate has learned from past missteps. For the first time, the constitutional amendment process is guided by a clear timeline and governance structure.
Zonal public hearings are already underway, with plenary debates slated for October, 2025. Voting is scheduled for mid-October, with transmission to state houses of assembly before the end of year 2025.
This level of structure is a welcome departure from previous attempts where 1 billion annual budgets often evaporated into process-heavy yet progress-light meetings.
Unlike previous narrow focuses, this round takes a broad and inclusive sweep. Highlights include: local government autonomy, offering fiscal and political independence; state policing, a long-standing demand amid rising insecurity and financial autonomy for state judiciary and legislature, to reinforce checks and balances.
It also focused on judicial reforms, including gender balance, virtual proceedings, and hearing timelines.
Electoral reforms, like e-voting and independent candidacy; affirmative action, notably the proposed—but rejected—35%
women’s quota in ministerial appointments.
Procedural accountability, including stricter executive assent timelines and ministerial nomination deadlines.These efforts reflect a wider vision for a more functional, equitable federation.
Unlike past top-down efforts, this exercise claims a bottom-up orientation. Zonal consultations are being held with traditional rulers, civil society organisations, women’s groups, youth forums, and academia.
Scholars and observers have lauded this move as the most inclusive public consultation architecture yet seen in Nigeria’s constitutional history. However, inclusion must go beyond form, it must influence substance.
Observers are of the opinion that despite commendable structure and scope, the 10th Senate must not underestimate the formidable headwinds that have historically derailed constitutional reform in Nigeria.
They had noted that the best reforms risk death by decentralization. Most constitutional amendments require 24 out of 36 state assemblies to pass. This is an obstacle that has repeatedly crushed past efforts. In 2022, for example, only 11 of 44 bills passed this hurdle.
Amendments are often hostage
to sectional interests. Power blocs treat the process as political poker rather than democratic engineering. Without counterweights, elite dominance will again dilute national consensus.
Civil society groups have justifiably labelled previous constitutional exercises as “legislative jamborees.” because the billions spent yielded disproportionately little reform, leading to public disillusionment. If the 10th Senate does not produce results, it risks reinforcing this perception.
Tokenism, weak public communication, rushed committee work, and misplaced priorities—such as immunity clauses and self-serving provisions—have derailed many previous cycles. Without attention to quality, quantity means little.
To truly rise above its predecessors, the 10th Senate must adopt bold strategies in six transformative areas:
Success must go beyond passage at the federal level. It must include acceptance by state assemblies, implementation timelines, and real-life impacts. Constitutional reform must be seen not just as a legislative milestone but a governance tool.
Instead of lobbying for passage after federal voting, the Senate must build consensus ahead of time. Governors, Speakers, and local influencers should be part of zonal hearings. Outreach materials should be published in major regional languages. Respected political and civic leaders should be lobbied within their states for passage and public buy-in.
The 10th Senate must organise more than town hall meetings in state capitals. It must
The 10th Senate must demonstrate political courage, administrative transparency, and citizen-centered design. It must listen more than it talks. Act more than it promises. For the Nigerian people, for whom governance often feels distant and opaque, this is not just a legislative exercise. It is a democratic litmus test. Let us hope it does not end, yet again, as just another expensive rehearsal.
engage rural communities, urban poor, and marginalized groups through town hall meetings in remote local government areas with live translation and moderated panels.
It should ensure ethnic, gender, and geographic balance in all consultation fora and invite independent constitutional experts to evaluate drafts for bias or imbalance.
On local government reform, states should be stopped from hijacking Local Government funds and appointments, an action that often undermines grassroots development.
Section 7 of the 1999 constitution should be amended to grant Local Governments full fiscal and political independence, with direct access to federal allocations guaranteed by the Constitution—not left to executive discretion.
Since insecurity remains localized and the police force remains centralized, the ongoing amendments should enshrine the creation of state police in the Constitution, setting federal oversight standards, minimum training protocols, and a collaborative funding framework.
On judicial reform, legal experts have recommended that the constitution should mandate timelines for adjudication, direct budget allocations to judicial councils, and legalize virtual court proceedings.
It has also been recommended that independent candidacy should be legalised and that the proposed amendments should, mandate a phased e-voting pilot, and clarify INEC’s powers to deregister parties that fail to meet standards.
It has also been suggested that to achieve gender equity inclusion in the constitution, gender-based campaign finance support, party-level reserved slots, and state-based gender targets in councils and political appointments, should be specifically spelt out in the proposed amendments.
Describing the exercise as a “national conversation,” Senator Barau, in a statement, last week emphasized the importance of broad-based public engagement in determining the future of the nation.
“This process is not just a legal exercise—it is a national dialogue. We are opening the doors of reform to every Nigerian, from civil society to community leaders, from the professional class to everyday citizens,” he said.
Akpabio
Barau
Bamidele
FEATURES
How Nigeria is Harnessing Seabed Mapping to Boost Blue Economy, Maritime Safety and Climate Resilience
As global efforts intensify to unlock the economic and environmental potential of the oceans, Nigeria is emerging as one of Africa’s most assertive players in the maritime space. Through strategic investments in seabed mapping and digital charting technology, the country is turning previously uncharted waters into instruments of national progress—securing its coastline, safeguarding navigation, and laying the groundwork for a thriving blue economy. This much was made clear at the 2025 World Hydrography Day celebration and West African Hydrographic Summit held in Abuja, recently. Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that by developing the Electronic Navigational Chart (ENC) capabilities and expanding its hydrographic infrastructure, Nigeria is not only enhancing maritime safety but also charting a path toward economic diversification. From renewable energy and food security to maritime trade and job creation, the country is leveraging ocean data to transform its economy and assert leadership in the region’s emerging blue economy
As of mid-2025, 27.3 per cent of the world’s ocean floor has now been mapped to modern standards—an increase of more than 4 million square kilometres in just one year. That’s an area roughly the size of the entire Indian subcontinent.
This milestone, announced shortly after the UN Ocean Conference in Nice and at the halfway point of the UN Ocean Decade, underscores a powerful truth: the ocean floor holds answers to some of the world’s most urgent needs—from tsunami warning systems to offshore renewable energy, cable safety, and biodiversity conservation.
In West Africa, Nigeria is taking the lead, recognising that by investing in seabed mapping and Electronic Navigational Chart (ENC) capabilities, the country is not only improving maritime safety but actively building a blue economy that promises economic diversification, food security, job creation, and energy development.
World Hydrography Day and West African Hydrographic Summit
This was the driving message at the 2025 World Hydrography Day celebration and West African Hydrographic Summit, held in Abuja recently at the Abuja Continental Hotel, where Nigeria announced bold plans to position itself as a regional leader in hydrography and maritime innovation.
From the ice-breaker event at the Abuja Continental Hotel, attended by foreign delegates, partners, Nigerian hydrography icons, industry professionals and maritime stakeholders including Rear Admiral Luigi Sinapi, Director, International Hydrographic Organisation; Mr Jamie McMichael Phillips, Director, GEBCO Seabed 2030 Project; Capt Mostafa Tafrhy, Hydrographer of Morocco; and Dr Kamal-Deen Ali, Director, Ghana Maritime Authority, which ended by celebrating Rear Admiral Osunmakinde, retired Nigerian Navy Hydrographer, on his 80th birthday, the two-day event was carefully curated to lay the groundwork for a thriving blue economy.
Presentations like “Innovations in Hydrographic Technology” by Surv. Paul Adegoke Adeyeye; “Seabed Mapping: Enabling Ocean Action” by Olajide Fagbewesa; and “Mapping the Ocean Floor: The Seabed 2030 Vision” by Mr Jamie McMichael-Phillips, were held with each speaker underscoring the theme “Seabed Mapping: Enabling Ocean Action”.
This was followed by a panel by former Hydrographer of the Navy, Rear Admiral CE Okafor (Rtd); Surv Dr. Chigozie Dimgba, and Surv Dr Nihinlola Olayinka-Dosunmu, moderated by Mr JohnBosco Uche (President, NAPE) on capacity building, hydrographic data governance, and ECOWAS collaboration.
Tapping into a $90 Billion Global Market
Meanwhile, at the kick off of the event, the Special Guest of Honour, Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, used the platform to announce the establishment of the International Centre for Electronic Navigational Charts (IC-ENC) West Africa Regional Office and Training Centre. To be hosted by Nigeria’s National Hydrographic Agency (NHA) in Abuja, the centre will serve as a regional hub for ENC charting, validation, training, and revenue generation.
“This move positions Nigeria to tap into the $90 million global market for Electronic Navigational Charts, potentially generating between $9 million
and $12 million in annual revenue from chart validation, distribution, and revenue management for international shipping clients,” Matawalle said.
The centre joins just four others globally—in the US, UK, Australia, and Brazil—and underscores Nigeria’s rising stature in global hydrography.
Seabed Mapping as a Strategic Imperative Matawalle reminded participants that mapping the ocean floor is no longer an optional or purely scientific exercise. “Seabed mapping is the foundation upon which sound ocean action is built. It is on the seabed that cables connect our digital world, pipelines fuel our industries, and biodiversity sustains our ecosystems. Yet, much of it remains uncharted, unknown, and therefore unprotected.”
He added that the data gathered by hydrographers supports safe navigation, marine spatial planning, climate science, coastal defence, and economic development—functions critical to Nigeria’s long-term prosperity.
“Today’s event is not just about mapping the seabed,” he said. “It is about shaping the future of our oceans. It is about creating tools, data, and partnerships that enable real ocean action: better decision-making, cleaner coastlines, safer navigation, and sustainable exploitation of marine resources.”
Building Capacity for the Future
In line with its broader economic and security goals, the Nigerian government has committed to strengthening hydrographic capacity as a matter of national priority. “Nigeria must leverage its hydrographic capacity not only to secure its waters but to fuel its economic transformation,” Matawalle said.
He also praised the inclusion of student competitions, industry exhibitions, and keynote lectures in the summit programme. “Let us keep investing in our youth because they are the future custodians of our waters,” he added. The minister pledged Nigeria’s continued support for hydrographic investment, regional cooperation, and innovation, ensuring that
“no part of our waters remains uncharted, unsafe, or unsustainable.”
National Hydrographic Agency Takes the Helm Since its formal establishment in 2021, the National Hydrographic Agency has rapidly positioned Nigeria as a credible maritime player. According to the Hydrographer of the Federation and Chief Executive Officer, National Hydrographic Agency, Rear Admiral Ayo Olugbode, Nigeria has now mapped over 85,000 square kilometres of its seafloor, a truly impressive feat.
Rear Admiral Olugbode, who stressed that seabed mapping plays a direct role in reducing piracy, improving maritime trade routes, and supporting sectors like oil, gas, tourism, and shipping, called for accelerated regional cooperation to share data and harmonise standards, noting that this summit marked a turning point.
“This summit is a major step toward strengthening regional cooperation and harmonising efforts in seabed mapping, capacity building, and data sharing,” he said.
Role of Legislation
While highlighting the critical role of legislation in Nigeria’s hydrographic progress, Rt Honourable Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, Chairman of the House Committee on the Nigerian Navy, recalled how he sponsored the NHA bill through the House and Senate until it received presidential assent. Further promising full and unwavering support for the continued growth, funding and modernisation of the NHA, he also offered his backing for expanded budgetary allocation and policy development.
Regional Commitments, Global Context
A major outcome of the summit was a joint communiqué signed by delegates from across West Africa, agreeing to joint surveys, a shared geospatial data platform, and collaborative training. The move is in line with global calls to accelerate seabed mapping as part of the UN Ocean Decade.
Undoubtedly, the timing is significant. World Hydrography Day, marked every 21st of June, commemorates the founding of the International Hydrographic Bureau in 1921 and celebrates the work of hydrographers around the world. It was officially recognised by the UN General Assembly in 2005, with the first celebration held in 2006.
This year’s theme—“Seabed Mapping: Enabling Ocean Action”—could not be more relevant, especially as countries like Nigeria link ocean data to climate resilience, energy development, and economic transformation.
Navigating the
Future
With the announcement of its IC-ENC regional office and expanded national mapping programme, Nigeria is no longer playing catch-up in the maritime sector. It is stepping confidently into a leadership role in African hydrography, using seabed data as a tool for national development, regional integration, and global engagement.
As Minister Matawalle put it: “By investing in seabed mapping, we invest in resilience, in growth, and in future generations.” It would be safe to say that from the floor of the ocean to the corridors of power, Nigeria’s maritime journey is truly on its way to achieving its capabilities in enhancing maritime safety and economic diversification.
Director of the International Hydrographic Organisation, Rear Admiral Luigi Sinapi (fourth right); Special Guest of Honour, Min ister of state for Defence, Bello Matawalle (fourth left); Hydrographer of the Federation and Chief Executive Officer, National Hydrographic Agency, Rear Admiral Ayo Olugb ode; Chief of Naval Engineering, Rear Admiral Baratuaipri Iyalla (second left); and others at the World Hydrographic Day Lecture & Interactive Session 2025…recently
The IHO Director and HoF/CEO - NHA with Women in Hydrography Candidates
Minister of state for Defence, Bello Matawalle receiving a commemorative gift from Rear Admiral Olugbode
From Nigeria to the World: NorthArabia Couture's Quest for Modest Fashion Supremacy
Mrs. Shamsiya Sadiq-Mohammed is the visionary behind NorthArabia Couture, a trailblazing fashion brand that's redefining elegance and modesty in Nigeria and beyond. With a unique blend of creativity, technical skill, and cultural flair, NorthArabia Couture is poised to take the fashion world by storm, writes MARY NNAH
In the vibrant heart of Nigeria's fashion scene, a brand has emerged that embodies the perfect blend of elegance, modesty, and style.
NorthArabia Couture, founded by the talented Mrs. Shamsiya SadiqMohammed, a lawyer-turned-designer, has been making waves in the industry with its unique designs and commitment to modest fashion. This brand has not only captured the attention of fashion enthusiasts but has also become a beacon of inspiration for young designers.
Inspiration from the Unlikely
For Mrs. Sadiq-Mohammed, inspiration is a multifaceted gem that can be found in the most unexpected places. Her latest collection, “Sweet Candy”, was inspired by her kids' love for candies, showcasing her ability to find creativity in everyday life.
“Anything could inspire my creative mind”, she said, highlighting her boundless imagination and passion for design. Her dual life as a businesswoman/designer by day and a lawyer by night has not hindered her creativity but rather fueled her passion for fashion.
Modest Fashion: A Growing Trend
According to Sadiq-Mohammed, modest fashion is gradually evolving in Nigeria and globally, transcending cultural and geographical boundaries.
“NorthArabia since its inception has been driving the movement of modest fashion and it is ready to tell the world that modest fashion isn't just for a particular religious faith or geographical location but for any woman who appreciates elegance," she asserted.
The brand creates pieces for all types of women, based solely on their personality, not their faith or location, making it a true pioneer in the industry.
Design
Process:
A
Fusion of Cultures
Mrs. Sadiq-Mohammed's design process is a meticulous blend of creativity and technical skill. She visualises her ideas, sketches them out, and sources fabrics to bring out the design.
When fusing Northern Nigerian and Arabian cultures into her designs, she picks familiar fashion elements that resonate with both cultures, such as embroidery, turbans, veils, silk, and embellishments.
“For every design, there must be something unique either in the design or the choice of fabric," she emphasised, highlighting her attention to detail and commitment to excellence.
Staying Ahead of the Curve
NorthArabia Couture is not just a fashion brand; it is a trendsetter. “We just smile in amusement when we see others using the same fabrics we used years ago”, Mrs. Sadiq-Mohammed said with a chuckle, showcasing the brand's confidence and innovative spirit. Her advice to young designers is to never give up, be unique, and stand out from the crowd, inspiring a new generation of fashion enthusiasts.
Representing Nigeria on the Global Stage Sadiq-Mohammed is thrilled to be representing Nigeria at the Modest Fashion Week in Abu Dhabi 2025. “It's an absolute privilege to have been chosen to represent
Nigeria for the very first time”, she said, highlighting the brand's growing global presence.
This opportunity will not only boost NorthArabia Couture's brand but also showcase Nigerian designers to the world, promoting cultural exchange and understanding through fashion.
What Sets NorthArabia Apart
NorthArabia Couture is unique in its designs, fabrics, and entire experience.
"You rarely find women dressing modestly and proud of it, but with us, you would want the world to see your glory and enchantment when dressed in any of our pieces," Mrs. Sadiq-Mohammed asserted.
The brand's attention to detail is unparalleled, and every piece is carefully crafted to convey elegance and style,
making it a true leader in the modest fashion industry.
Popular Collections
The "Sweet Candy" collection is one of NorthArabia's most popular collections, inspired by Mrs. Sadiq-Mohammed's kids' love for candies. The collection was carefully curated to bring out the vibrant nature of an elegant woman, showcasing the brand's creativity and attention to detail.
Future Plans
NorthArabia Couture aims to fully serve both local and international customers, with plans to supply international stores and open a walk-in store in Nigeria. Mrs. Sadiq-Mohammed hopes to increase the brand's global presence and showcase Nigerian fashion
NorthArabia since its inception has been driving the movement of modest fashion and it is ready to tell the world that modest fashion isn't just for a particular religious faith or geographical location but for any woman who appreciates elegance
to the world, promoting cultural exchange and understanding through fashion.
Fashion's Role in Economic Growth and Cultural Development
The fashion industry already contributes significantly to Nigeria's economic growth, but Mrs. Sadiq-Mohammed believes it can do more with government support. "If given more support, the industry's annual growth could increase from 17% to 30% or more," she said.
The industry can also promote cultural exchange and understanding through fashion, by incorporating cultural elements into designs and promoting them globally.
Supporting the Fashion Industry
To support the fashion industry in Nigeria, Sadiq-Mohammed proposes access to funding through grants, sponsorships, and partnerships. The creation of the Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy is a step in the right direction, she believes.
With its unique designs, commitment to modest fashion, and passion for showcasing Nigerian culture, NorthArabia Couture is poised to take the fashion world by storm. As Mrs. Sadiq-Mohammed said, "Modest fashion isn't boring; it's elegantly stylish, and that's what we stand for.”
Shamsiya Sadiq-Mohammed
www.thisdaylive.com
IN THE WAKE OF MANGU TRAGEDY
Uba Sani is committed to ensuring the victims get justice, writes ACHALLA JOROME
CREEPING OUT OF INTERNET POVERTY INDEX
Nigeria has the highest number of people living in internet poverty, writes SONNY ARAGBA-AKPORE
EDITORIAL
NIGERIA AND ACCESS TO ELECTRICITY
Iopinion@thisdaylive.com
There are no rules to ensure fair play in politics, argues JOSHUA OCHEJA
WIKE, FUBARA, AND NICCOLÒ MACHIAVELLI
am glad the much-needed peace has returned to Rivers State. Sim Fubara has made peace with his benefactor, Nyesom Wike as brokered by the president and other concerned stakeholders. Peace is priceless, but it comes at a cost that must be borne by either party, depending on the side Fubara had to bear the cost. And he was wise to deem it necessary to end the rift, which was not to his advantage, given the dynamics of politics and how he ascended the throne as Governor of Rivers State.
Politics is a dirty game as insinuated. Yet, politicians have not stopped playing the
making concessions. These deals are agreed, signed and sealed not in the public domain, but in the sanctuary of the political godfather who can make or mar the aspiration of the politician. And when the terms of the agreement are adhered to, there is peace. of politics as a dirty game surfaces, sending unsuspecting members of the general public on a wild goose chase on who and what is right or wrong from a moral standing. But unfortunately, morality stands no chance in politics.
I don’t like to dwell on rumours in my analysis. But the rumour mills have it that part of the deal for peace between Nyesom Wike and Sim Fubara was that the governor would not seek reelection, pay all outstanding allowances to the suspended lawmakers, and Nyesom Wike would nominate the chairmen of all the local government areas in the state. In return, the lawmakers won't institute any impeachment against him, but instead, ensure a good working relationship between the executive and the legislature. If indeed this is true, there is nothing strange about it in my opinion.
The political actors in the state have learnt valuable lessons. Sim Fubara has learnt some hard lessons in politics on why you must keep your side of the bargain. Nyesom Wike has learnt about trust and the need to have a plan B. The lawmakers have learnt about how vital loyalty is in politics and why it pays to be loyal. Worthy of mention is the fact that the lawmakers demonstrated loyalty by not jumping ship. Else, it would have been disastrous for Nyesom Wike.
Sim Fubara didn’t heed the advice of Ayo Fayose, who counseled him about the political notoriety of Nyesom Wike and why it is not always wise to go to political war with him. Indeed, he tested the waters and realized that things are not always how they appear. There are always undercurrents that are not expressed openly. Nyesom Wike can be overbearing too. It takes a lot to be at peace with him. And he is unapologetic about his bearing. His crabby voice also complicates serious or bantering. You can only see joy in him when he is dancing to the rhythm of his
hype men.
What happened in Rivers State is all politics and nothing more. Niccolò Machiavelli, an Italian diplomat, philosopher, and political theorist in his work, “The Prince” a 16thcentury political treatise gave a hint of what to expect in politics. After reading “The Prince”, I laughed because some aspects captured what happened in Rivers State. For example, in chapter six of the book, Conquest by Virtue, he postulated that “Princes who rise to power through their skill and resources (their "virtue") rather than luck tend to have a hard time rising to the top, but once they reach the top they are very secure in their crush their opponents and earn great respect from everyone else. Because they are strong fewer compromises with their allies.”
In chapter seven, Conquest by Fortune, he also postulated that “when a prince comes to power through luck or the blessings of typically has an easy time gaining power but a hard time keeping it thereafter, because his power is dependent on his benefactors' goodwill. He does not command the loyalty authority, and these can be withdrawn from him at a whim. Having risen the easy way, it is not even certain such a prince has the skill and strength to stand on his own feet.” Let’s relate these postulations to what happened in Rivers State.
Sim Fubara became governor of Rivers State by “fortune”. He was handpicked by Nyesom Wike. He had no political leverage to win the election. Everything was dependent on Nyesom Wike and he won the election. That is “conquest by fortune”. According to Niccolò Machiavelli “Having risen the easy way, it is not even certain such a prince has the skill and strength to stand on his own feet.”. This is what happened to Sim Fubara.
He fought hard to change the order to no avail. He was at the mercy of the whims and caprices of Nyesom Wike. Having to accept not to seek reelection and granting the FCT Minister the concession to nominate all the local government chairmen says it all. Make no mistakes, it is not a weakness on the part of Sim Fubara. The tide is against him because of how he rose to power. It would power by “virtue”. That is, using his political connections, resources and structure.
Sim Fubara is not a weak man. It is the circumstances he found himself. I want his supporters to understand this. What were he was disadvantaged politically? He didn’t have the political might in the state and of course, the presidency supported Nyesom Wike all through for political expediency. If you were in his position, what would you have done? Don’t forget that he was also suspended, he was likely to be impeached by the equally aggrieved lawmakers. To Niccolò Machiavelli, Sim Fubara does not “command maintain his authority, and these can be withdrawn from him at a whim.”
If the truth be told, there are no rules to ensure fair play in politics. Politics is more like a dare-devil stunt – One wrong move and down you go. And because there is no fair play, the game ends up being nothing but dirty. For example, someone can kill your mother today, but after the burial, the person joins your political party and you become the best of friends. This is food for thought on the rules of engagement in politics.
•Ocheja, PhD, a scholar and communicator specializes in the documentation of the military histories of Nigeria and Africa and can be reached via jaocheja@gmail.com
Uba Sani is committed to ensuring the victims get justice, writes ACHALLA JOROME
IN THE WAKE OF MANGU TRAGEDY
Nigeria has the highest number of people living in internet poverty, writes SONNY ARAGBA-AKPORE
CREEPING OUT OF INTERNET POVERTY INDEX
•Aragba-Akpore is a member of THISDAY Editorial Board
•Jorome, a Pharmacist, writes from Abuja
Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA
Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com
NIGERIA AND ACCESS TO ELECTRICITY
Fitful supply of electricity does so much damage to the economy
For three consecutive years, the World Bank has named Nigeria as the country with most people without access to electricity. In its latest report, 'Tracking SDG7: The Energy Progress Report 2025,' the World Bank noted that 86.8 million Nigerians could not access power supply as of 2023. The year before (2022), the country also had the least access with some 86 million people. The latest report assessed progress made in the Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7), which focuses on ensuring energy for all by 2030.
The World Bank latest report has once again highlighted the challenges in the country’s power sector. Nigeria generates barely 14,000 megawatts of electricity for more than 200 million people. The more agonising part is that less than half for distribution in homes and industries. While there were expectations that the unbundling of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) along with its DISCOS (distribution companies) in 2013 would translate into improved and increased power generation
critical infrastructure - from generation to transmission lines. Besides, many of the sector players are owed parastatals, which help in crippling operations.
Disruptions of electricity supply occasioned by regular grid collapses and vandalism of equipment are commonplace,
causing significant pains and economic losses to Nigerians
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
have continued to dominate the sector as the transition to a largely privately owned sector did not bring about the outcomes expected.
Today, most Nigerians have come to the inescapable conclusion that the process through which a host of emerging economies successfully used to reset their
parts of the country now consider it a luxury to have few hours of electricity supply on any given day. Disruptions of electricity supply occasioned by regular grid collapses
EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE T H I S D
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA
GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, EMMANUEL EFENI
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Letters to the Editor
The implications of the least access to electricity supply are obvious on the economy. Many Nigerians, both wealthy and poor, have turned to fuel or diesel-powered generators to power their homes and businesses. It is estimated that over 22 million petrol and diesel generators power about 26 per cent of all households and 30 per cent of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Indeed, for decades, roaring generators provide the soundtrack to urban and rural life, producing more than twice as much power as Nigerians get from the grid. The absence of reliable economic activities and productivity. Annual economic losses from
per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP)—at a cost of US$25 billion. With everybody supplying their own electricity, Nigeria is one of the toughest places in the world to do business. Lack of electricity has limited access to healthcare, education, and other opportunities. Many small and medium scale businesses have been crippled due to the prohibitive cost of generating their own power. Even the big business ventures, particularly the manufacturing ones, are economy.
However, in a historic shift, President Bola Tinubu signed a new electricity act in 2023, aimed essentially at decentralising the power sector. The Act gives states the authority to control and regulate electricity within their domains, granting them the freedom to generate, transmit, and distribute power. It is yet to be seen how this intervention will help in powering homes and industries.
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.
BAUCHI’S SWINGING POLITICAL CULTURE
Bauchi is one of the few states, perhaps the only one, in northern Nigeria that has consistently upheld a politics rooted in independence. The people of Bauchi are known for their distinct political culture: no candidate, political party, or ideology can be imposed on them. Incumbency holds elections.
From the days of the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU) in the First Republic to the politics of the Second Republic, and even the cult-like support for Muhammadu Buhari in more recent times, Bauchi has carved out a political identity that is both unique and enduring.
A review of Bauchi’s electoral history, particularly in gubernathat many analysts regard as unmatched in Nigeria.
For instance:In 1979, they elected Tatari Ali as Governor under the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) against their kinsman within the North East in person of Alhaji Ibrahim Waziri of the GNPP. In 1992, they elected Alhaji Dahiru Mohammed Deba as Governor, alongside Alh Ibrahim Tofa of NRC against the popular candidature of MKO Abiola.
Somehow in 1999, after a rerun elections, PDP managed to win
and Adamu Mu’azu got elected as Governor but later lost bid to win senatorial elections after serving for eight years as governor. In 2007, Mal. Isa Yuguda won as Governor under ANPP against the incumbent PDP when Umaru Yar’Adua was president.
In 2011, the state aligned with the opposition APC to produce Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar as governor but lost his re-elecBala Mohammed of the PDP.
and has never dictated governors emergence in Bauchi State. Imposing candidates rarely works. Incumbency does not guarantee
ture of Bauchi politics is one of its most intriguing features
Equally remarkable is the background of those elected. Since 1999, Bauchi governors have consistently emerged from modest Adamu Mu’azu, Isa Yuguda, Mohammed Abubakar, and present Bala Mohammed all came from zero disposition, meaning, not period. This trend illustrates the state’s openness to merit and its
resistance to political imposition. Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, it appears to be the state with the highest number of contestants so far: Mohammed Auwal Jatau – the current Deputy Governor of Bauchi State; Muhammad Ali Pate – the current Minister of Health; Dr. Nura Manu Soro – Ex- Finance commissioner and President Tinubu campaign coordinator; Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, senator from APC; Alhaji Bala Wunti, former MD of NAPIMS; Airtor Halliru Jika,a former senator; Dr. Musa Babayo, former chairman of TETFUND;Senator Dahuwa Kaila, a serving senator, among numerous others. With such a lineup and Bauchi’s long history of voter independence, the 2027 elections promise to be as competitive and unpredictable as ever.
populist traditions. Candidates without a clear vision or strong grassroots connection are regularly rejected at the polls, and 2027 is likely to uphold that tradition.
•Zayyad I. Muhammad, Abuja
Sunday Ehigiator
Despite a tumultuous economic climate, Nigeria’s non-pension asset management industry experienced remarkable growth in 2024, with total assets under management (AuM) increasing by 71.2 per cent to reach N10.1 trillion.
According to a report by Agusto & Co., this growth was driven by macro-economic factors, regulatory reforms, and heightened investor engagement, particularly from the retail segment.
“In a year defined by significant macroeconomic instability and soaring inflation, Nigeria’s nonpension asset management industry did not just survive; it thrived, spectacularly. Total assets under management increased by 71.2 per cent to reach an aggregate of N10.1 trillion.
“This considerable expansion was underpinned by a confluence of
Nume Ekeghe
Currency in circulation (CIC) in Nigeria climbed to N5.015 trillion in May 2025, marking a modest increase from N5.003 trillion in April, according to the latest figures released by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). The 0.24 per cent uptick points to continued liquidity build-up in the system, despite the apex bank’s tightening stance aimed
macroeconomic factors, regulatory reforms, and heightened investor engagement, particularly from the retail segment. The proliferation of digital investment platforms prised open market access for a new generation of younger, digitallynative investors, democratising access to wealth creation like never before,” Agusto & Co. said.
However, the report noted that the sustainability of this growth is uncertain, as it appears to be predicated on volatile economic conditions.
It stated, “The industry’s growth was largely driven by investors seeking safe havens from inflation and currency fluctuations.”
The report also highlighted the dominance of segregated portfolios, which accounted for 57 per cent of the total AuM. According to Agusto & Co., Collective Investment Schemes (CISs) also saw significant growth, with AuM increasing by
at curbing inflation and mopping up excess money supply.
Also, there was an increase in currency outside the formal banking system. From N4.57 trillion in April, the amount of cash held by the public outside deposit-taking institutions rose to N4.63 trillion in May, a 1.38 per cent increase.
Furthermore, a proportion of the total currency in circulation,
82 per cent to reach N3.74 trillion.
“The top five asset managers control 55.5 per cent of total AuM, with Stanbic IBTC Asset Management maintaining its position as the market leader. However, newer players such as CardinalStone and Norrenberger are starting to challenge the dominance of the established players.
“While the industry map is expanding, power remains concentrated. Segregated portfolios (which include managed discretionary and non-discretionary client funds not publicly disclosed) maintained their dominant position within the industry. Serving as customised investment vehicles tailored specifically for institutional clients and high-networth individuals, these bespoke portfolios accounted for 57 per cent of total AuM.
“These mandates offer the kind of customisation that large-scale
cash outside banks accounted for 92.4 per cent in May, up from 91.3 per cent in April.
A broader review of currency data over the past 12 months reveals a steady climb in CIC and currency outside banks. In May 2024, total CIC stood at N3.97 trillion, with N3.71 trillion approximately 93.5 percent outside the banks. By comparison, May 2025’s figures represent a year-on-
capital demands. However, the real momentum was in Collective Investment Schemes. Here, AuM skyrocketed by 82 per cent to reach N3.74 trillion, with 29 new funds entering the fray,” the report said.
It added, “The sheer variety of new launches – spanning money market, dollar, balanced, and Shariah-compliant funds – speaks to a market scrambling to meet a growing public demand for diversification, liquidity, and ethical options.
“Yet, for all the talk of dynamism, it remains a game of giants. The top five asset managers still control a commanding 55.5 per cent of total AuM, expertly leveraging their affiliations with banking behemoths to dominate distribution channels.
“Stanbic IBTC Asset Management held its position as the undisputed market leader. But the landscape is not entirely static. Ambitious players like CardinalStone and
year increase of 26.2 percent in total CIC and a 24.8 percent rise in currency held outside banks.
Throughout the second half of 2024, Nigeria experienced a consistent upward trend in physical currency supply.
In June 2024, CIC was N4.05 trillion, with N3.79 trillion, 93.5 percent outside banks. July maintained the same headline CIC but saw a slight dip in cash
Norrenberger have started chipping away at the dominance of the old guard, suggesting that a more dynamic competitive environment is emerging.
“In 2024, the macroeconomic backdrop continued to be shaped by the impact of policy reforms enacted in 2023: the liberalisation of the naira and the removal of petrol subsidies. Intended to stabilise the economy, these policies instead unleashed a torrent of inflation, which averaged a staggering 31.7 per cent in 2024. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) fought back, hiking its policy rate by a massive 875 basis points to 27.5 per cent.”
The report forecasts continued growth in the industry, with a 60-65 per cent rise in AuM expected, potentially pushing the industry beyond the N16 trillion mark within a year.
“Looking forward, Agusto & Co. forecasts continued expansion
outside banks to N3.67 trillion, or 90.6 percent. By August, CIC rose to N4.14 trillion and cash outside banks stood at N3.87 trillion. In September, CIC climbed further to N4.31 trillion with N4.02 trillion—roughly 93.3 percent held outside banks. October recorded N4.55 trillion in circulation, with N4.29 trillion or 94.3 percent outside banks. November saw a notable jump
of the Nigerian asset management industry, with a 60–65 per cent rise in AuM, potentially pushing the industry beyond the N16 trillion mark within a year.
“Heightened product awareness, increased institutional participation, and sustained retail investment momentum, particularly via fintech collaborations, will be the primary engines. Nevertheless, the industry’s fate remains tethered to the nation’s economic health.
“Persistent inflation, currency risk, and immense fiscal pressures are headwinds that could easily stall the current trajectory. The path to N16 trillion seems paved, but it is fraught with the very same macroeconomic risks that fuelled the initial scramble for returns. The question for Nigeria’s asset managers is no longer if they can grow, but if they can build lasting value on such volatile ground,” it stated.
to N4.88 trillion in CIC, with N4.65 trillion outside banks, the highest volume of out-of-bank currency for the year.
In December 2024, CIC peaked at N5.44 trillion before dropping slightly to N5.24 trillion in January 2025, N5.03 trillion in February, and N5.003 trillion in March. The most recent increase in May signals a return to expansion after a brief period of stabilisation.
Tax Reforms: New Law Ushers in Clarity, Broader Base, Compliance
Nume Ekeghe posits that the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, 2025, signed into law by President Bola Tinubu will overhaul the country’s tax system, ensure compliance and promote fairness
In a bold move to reposition Nigeria’s tax landscape for long-term sustainability, the federal government has signed into law a sweeping tax reform package under the Nigeria Tax Administration Act (NTAA) 2025. This legislation considered a foundational pillar of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s fiscal reset, followed months of stakeholder engagements and expert consultations through the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee.
The law introduces a unified and modern tax framework designed to boost voluntary compliance, simplify administration, and support broader economic growth. It also establishes new thresholds, incentives, and digital processes aimed at aligning Nigeria’s tax policy with global best practices.
According to the President, Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) Innocent Ohagwa, the legislation will greatly engender a more inclusive and transparent tax system; “one that recalibrates how taxes are designed and collected while encouraging voluntary compliance and widening the tax net without stifling enterprise.”
UNIFIED STRUCTURE FOR EFFICIENCY, ACCOUNTABILITY
One of the most significant features of the NTAA 2025, is the establishment of a unified tax administration system that centralises oversight and reduces duplication. It designates the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) as the lead federal body overseeing tax administration for companies, non-residents, and certain federal employees, while empowering relevant state tax authorities (RTAs) to manage personal income tax and related levies within their jurisdictions.
The Act also encourages seamless collaboration between tax bodies. When non-compliance is identified outside an authority’s domain, the matter can be referred or audited jointly, an innovation intended to reduce audit gaps and enforcement delays.
This streamlined architecture, paired with statutory timelines for actions such as issuing
Tax Identification Numbers (TINs) or handling objections, enhances the efficiency of tax administration across all tiers of government.
BROADENING TAX NET
In a significant step toward widening the tax base, the NTAA introduces structured processes to bring more Nigerians especially those in the informal economy into the tax system. Small businesses and low-income earners are encouraged to file simplified returns, while comprehensive identification procedures and penalties are now in place to ensure compliance.
Importantly, the Act also introduces new requirements for Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs), including mandatory reporting of cryptocurrency and digital asset transactions, KYC (know your customer) standards, and defined tax liabilities. According to the law, non-compliant VASPs risk both license suspension and steep fines reaching N10 million for the first month of default and N1 million for each subsequent month.
MAKING ROOM FOR THE DIGITAL ECONOMY
In a major push toward modernisation, the NTAA mandates the adoption of electronic fiscal systems (EFS) for recording, invoicing, and transmitting tax data. Businesses will now operate under a fiscalised VAT regime, with e-invoicing and digital filing integrated directly into tax authority platforms.
Non-compliance with EFS adoption is punishable with stiff administrative penalties starting from N1 million and escalating daily. This measure reflects a firm stance on embracing automation and reducing the inefficiencies and fraud risks that typically accompany manual processes.
“The focus on digitalising tax filing is one of the Act’s most impactful reforms,” according to a KPMG analysis. “It aims to
minimise errors, fraud, and inefficiencies in the tax process. It also streamlines tax administration, providing taxpayers with quicker access to their records and reducing the potential for omissions.”
INCENTIVISING COMPLIANCE, PROTECTING EQUITY
The NTAA 2025 does not just aim to tax more, it aims to tax better. In line with this goal, a number of progressive reforms were introduced to balance the burden across income classes and reduce the complexity of tax obligations.
Among the key changes, Progressive Personal Income Tax (PIT) Rates, Individuals earning N800,000 or less annually will now be exempt from PIT. Higher earners will be taxed up to 25 per cent, with an expanded exemption threshold for loss-of-job compensation rising from N10 million to N50 million.
A new 4 per cent Development Levy will now be imposed on large and medium companies (excluding small businesses). This levy consolidates several existing levies—such as TETFund, NASENI, and IT Levy—into one, thereby reducing the administrative load on businesses. Also, Capital Gains Tax (CGT) Increase, the CGT for corporate entities is raised from 10 per cent to 30 per cent, aligning it with Company Income Tax (CIT) and closing a long-exploited tax arbitrage gap.
Economic Development Incentive (EDI), replacing the controversial Pioneer Status Incentive, the EDI offers a 5 per cent annual tax credit for qualifying capital expenditures incurred within five years of a company’s production date.
These measures are seen as a thoughtful recalibration of the system toward fairness and growth. “It is a clear demonstration of the political will required for entrenching equity, fairness, efficiency, and economic
resilience in our tax and fiscal framework,” said Mr. Innocent Ohagwa, President of CITN.
ELEVATING COMPLIANCE, DISPUTE RESOLUTION
Perhaps one of the most transformative features of the NTAA is the creation of a Tax Ombudsman’s Office. This body is tasked with mediating disputes, handling taxpayer complaints, and liaising with authorities to ensure fair treatment. It introduces an independent layer of accountability into Nigeria’s tax ecosystem, helping to rebuild taxpayer trust.
The NTAA also strengthens refund mechanisms requiring that all validated tax refunds be processed within 90 days and codifies taxpayers’ rights to dispute resolution and transparency. The standardisation of objection procedures and return filing calendars aims to eliminate ad-hoc enforcement and arbitrary assessments.
IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING
With its sweeping provisions, the NTAA 2025 offers a roadmap for sustainable tax reform. But its impact will hinge on execution.
CITN has pledged continued support in capacity-building, policy awareness, and stakeholder engagement. “We look forward to supporting the smooth implementation of the law, especially in terms of professional guidance, awareness, advocacy, and capacity building,” Ohagwa said.
While there are transitional challenges, especially for SMEs adjusting to new digital and compliance expectations, the long-term outlook remains optimistic. If faithfully implemented, the NTAA could mark a turning point in Nigeria’s fiscal narrative, enhancing investor confidence and delivering a more transparent and productive revenue system.
As the legislation takes effect, its success will be measured not just by revenue growth, but by the trust it fosters between citizens, businesses, and the state. In that sense, the NTAA is more than a reform, it is a fresh social contract.
PenCom and Search for Alternative Investment Portfolios
After over 20 years of continued investment of larger chunk of pension funds in federal government securities, National Pension Commission, is now in search of alternative investment portfolios, writes Ebere Nwoji
The National Pension Commission (PenCom) is obviously no longer at ease with the lingering tradition of investing larger chunk of pension assets in federal government instruments such as bonds and public equities. The commission and pension fund operators are earnestly searching for alternative instruments with higher yields where they can stake the whooping N24.11 trillion pension assets on which Nigerian pension sector is currently sitting on.
The reason for search of alternative assets is not far-fetched. The prevailing economic landscape characterised by volatility, rising inflation and declining purchasing power of RSA Contributors, required dynamic and resilient investment strategies in order to make handsome returns to pension fund contributors’ savings account.
The current search for high yielding alternative investment windows initiative which credit goes to the incumbent gentle but vibrant Director General of PenCom, Ms Omolola Oloworaran, is coming after 20 years of religious and tenacious guard on pension assets in terms of operators’ asset class choice of investment. Indeed over these years, managers of the fund believed pension fund is sacrosanct; therefore, should mainly be invested in the assumed safest instrument of Federal Government mainly federal government bonds.
The result of this is that today, over 80 percent of pension fund assets are invested in fixed income securities with Federal Government Securities accounting for 62 percent of total pension assets valued at N24.11 trillion as of 30 May 2025; according to PenCom.
Though safety should be the watch word in investment of pension funds, over these years the fund managers have been risk averse.
Previous regimes in the commission for instance, insisted that pension funds should not be invested in infrastructural development not even in such high yielding but short maturing instrument like commercial papers of even those of blue ship companies like Dangote, strong commercial banks like Access Bank, GTB among others which can hardly default.
PENCOM POSITION
The commission had insisted that except commercial paper instrument is regulated by SEC, it cannot allow pension fund to be invested there.
But with the regime of Oloworaran, the time seems to be ripe for the pension sector to launch out for alternative investment instrument that will guarantee higher yields.
The commission demonstrated commitment towards search for these alternative investment windows by organising two-day sensitisation workshop on Investment in Alternative Assets for Chairpersons of Board Investment Strategy and Risk Management Committees of Pension Fund Administrators
At the workshop, Oloworaran, observed that the Nigerian pension funds were yet to fully optimise investment potential, despite the availability of favourable long-term demography to operators.
She said despite the fact that the overarching theme of investment in the pension industry had consistently been the preservation of capital and generation of fair returns, the misperception of safety with liquidity has limited the ability of Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) to optimally deploy pension funds under their management.
Oloworaran, noted that currently over 80 per cent of pension fund assets were invested in fixed income securities with federal government securities accounting for 62 per cent of total pension assets valued at N24.11 trillion as of 30 May 2025. She said the allocation to alternative assets (private equity and infrastructure funds) was only about 3 per cent, noting that while traditional asset classes such as bonds and public equities had served their purpose, hence the need for alternative investment asset classes.
“In this context, alternative assets provide a complimentary pillar to core investment strategies of pension funds offers. Investments in infrastructure and private equity, in particular, help align pension fund portfolio with their investment horizon, provide opportunities for diversification of pension assets and enhance
risk adjusted returns.
“Let me stress that as Chairpersons of the Investment Strategy and Risk Committees, you occupy a position of trust. You have a fiduciary duty a legal and ethical obligation to act in the best interests of Retirement Savings Account holders at all times. This responsibility includes ensuring that investment decisions are based on sound strategy, robust risk assessments, and are compliant with the guidelines issued by the Commission,” she pointed out.
OPERATORS’ POSITION
Also speaking, president of Pension operators Association (PenOp), which is the umbrella body of pension funds administrators and custodians, Mr Christopher Bajowa, noted that the pension sector has grown significantly both in size and in credibility.
He added that operators have demonstrated that pension assets in Nigeria could be managed professionally, transparently, and responsibly.
“We have shown that retirees can be paid promptly, that pension funds can be grown prudently, and that technology can be deployed to enhance efficiency and customer service. These achievements are commendable, and we should be proud of how far we have come”, he stated. He however said despite these achievements, operators recognised that there were more to do. He said as fiduciaries, operators have dual responsibility not only to safeguard and grow pension assets, but also to contribute meaningfully to the economic development of the country.
“We cannot afford to be passive investors in the face of Nigeria’s infrastructure and development needs.This is why this workshop is so important,” he stated.
INVESTMENT EXPERT’S VIEW
Speaking on alternative areas of investment of pension funds an investment expert and Chartered Accountant with the FMDQ, who does not want his name in print said commercial papers are alternative area of
investment for pension fund.
He described commercial papers as short term debt instrument issued by corporations adding that they can be issued up to a tenure of 270 days.
He however explained that because they are issued by corporations, they are typically not very secured like federal government securities.
He said as such they pay higher discount or interest rate.
According to him, the benefit of investing in commercial papers is that they are usually issued at a discount meaning that interest is paid upfront before the maturity of the securities.
He however said it would be good for the PFA to do its own due diligence to be able to understand the issuer of such commercial paper before investing in them to minimise risks.
He said this is a viable area of vestment for pension funds as SEC recently issued a circular mandating registration of commercial paper programmes to be done so as to review the programme before people will start buying so as to reduce risk faced by the buyers.
He said as such commercial papers are one of the instruments the PFAs can explore in their current search for alternative investment instrument.
ALTERNATIVE INVESTMENT INSTRUMENT
Oloworaran, in her conclusion said alternative investment instrument would ensure handsome returns and ensure long term sustainability. According to her, majority of pension funds are invested in traditional fixed income facilities like federal government bonds, treasury bills, all government securities.
She insisted that now what the pension sector needs to do as an industry is to ask, how can we diversify that portfolio to ensure that we generate inflation plus returns to retirees and RSA holders’ retirement savings account holders. Speaking further, she said, “How do we ensure that pension funds being long term capital can be used to drive infrastructure development because there are great opportunity out there and the best way we can get real returns for pension funds is to begin to invest in real assets.”
Mining with Purpose: Redefining the Social Contract Between Industry and Community
Madhurii Sarkar-Amoda
Across the globe, mining is undergoing a necessary transformation. The industry stands at a crossroads. For too long, its narrative has centred on extraction—companies arrive, take what they need, and leave communities to face the consequences. This model is not only outdated; it is unsustainable.
True prosperity in mining begins with a commitment to host communities and a vision of shared value — a truth today’s leaders can no longer afford to ignore.
At Segilola Resources Operating Limited (SROL), we believe in a new path forward— mining with purpose; this means recognising that our long-term success is tied to the well-being of our host communities. It’s not sentiment; it’s strategy. Here’s how we implement that strategy through tangible, community-centred practices.
COMMUNITY-CENTERED
IMPERATIVE
Traditional mining often treated community engagement as a checkbox exercise—secure the licence, extract the resource, and manage the fallout. But this approach breeds mistrust and long-term instability.
At SROL, we inverted the model. When we began operations in Osun State, we didn’t just consult communities—we embedded ourselves within them. We listened to traditional rulers, market women, youths, and voices rarely reaching the boardroom. We also conducted a comprehensive needs assessment. What emerged wasn’t a CSR programme—but a strategic community development agenda that involved relevant Community Development Agreement (CDA) projects, CSR and Livelihood Restoration Programmes (LRPs).
STRATEGIC INVESTMENT, NOT CHARITY
We distinguish between charity and strategic community investment. Charity creates dependency; strategic investment builds capacity and is sustained. Take our infrastructure work in Imogbara. Constructing a palace for the Oba wasn’t
“Establishing robust relationships with host communities is a strategic imperative that yields tangible business advantages. Research indicates that proactive community engagement can significantly reduce operational disruptions. Moreover, community engagement fosters trust and social acceptance, which is crucial for the social license to operate. Studies have shown that positive dialogue experiences between companies and communities lead to stronger relationships and increased perceptions of fairness, enhancing trust and acceptance of mining operations.”
Bitget has said it launched its institutional services in Nigeria, offering fintech companies a robust platform to build innovative solutions on top of Bitget’s suite of institutional-grade offerings.
The CEO, Bitget, Gracy Chen, in a statement said, “Our goal is to empower Nigerian businesses to innovate
and leverage blockchain for wealth creation opportunities, hence, the institutional services empowers fintech leaders with tailored solutions, as the offerings designed to cater for the unique operational needs of institutional clients, enabling businesses to embed trading functionalities like spot and futures markets, wallet management, and more, directly into their platforms.
“The Key services include White-label Broker Services which enabled Fintech companies to deploy customized crypto exchanges using Bitget’s infrastructure while managing branding and users independently. There is also API Solutions that can make the Developers to integrate trading functionality via APIs for spot, margin, and
just a construction project but a restoration of cultural pride. Our 2.4-kilometre interlocking road project improved transport but also signalled our longterm commitment to quality, sustainable projects and permanence in community relations. These investments are not peripheral. They directly strengthen the business environment—by fostering trust, improving mobility, and attracting complementary development.
EMPOWERING WOMEN, BUILDING ECONOMIES
Our Segilola Women’s Initiative Programme (SWIP) illustrates how development should go beyond infrastructure. Over 200 women have been trained in digital literacy, marketing, and financial management, and 120 benefited from the entrepreneur and startup project. These are not aid beneficiaries—they are emerging entrepreneurs ready to build generational wealth and uplift their communities.
This kind of empowerment has ripple effects—stronger families, growing local businesses, and increased resilience against economic shocks.
INVESTING IN THE FUTURE: YOUTH AND INNOVATION
Just as empowering women strengthens households and local economies, engaging youth builds the foundation for long-term societal growth.
Our annual football tournament builds bonds between our staff and local youth, and the recent commissioning of our Host Community Mini-Bus Transport Scheme underscores our continued commitment to fostering economic growth and development within our host communities. But we go further—our university innovation competition challenges students to tackle illegal mining, offering rewards for implementable solutions.
We provide merit-based scholarships to outstanding students from our host communities in secondary and tertiary institutions. To further support their academic journey, top scorers in the scholarship examinations receive laptops to aid their studies. We have also invested in upgrading key schools—renovating classrooms,
derivatives markets, ensuring fast execution and seamless experiences for end users.”
Chen added, “The ND Broker Model provides clients with complete autonomy over user-facing platforms, offering exclusive front-end flexibility while relying on Bitget for back-end market liquidity. Clients are able to employ Protection Fund and Proof of Reserves of over
providing ergonomic furniture, and equipping science laboratories with state-of-the-art equipment. These efforts are designed to promote STEM education and create a learning environment that nurtures curiosity, critical thinking, and innovation. We’re not just supporting education—we’re cultivating future industry leaders, grounded in innovation and community insight.
THE BUSINESS CASE FOR PURPOSE
Establishing robust relationships with host communities is a strategic imperative that yields tangible business advantages. Research indicates that proactive community engagement can significantly reduce operational disruptions. Moreover, community engagement fosters trust and social acceptance, which is crucial for the social license to operate. Studies have shown that positive dialogue experiences between companies and communities lead to stronger relationships and increased perceptions of fairness, enhancing trust and acceptance of mining operations.
Other examples further illustrate these benefits. In Ghana, AngloGold Ashanti implemented a comprehensive malaria control program in Obuasi, reducing malaria cases by 74% over two years. This initiative improved public health and enhanced workforce productivity and community relations.
Similarly, in Australia, the Carey Group’s partnership with AngloGold Ashanti at the Sunrise Dam mine exemplifies the positive impact of Indigenous engagement. By incorporating Indigenous businesses into its supply chain, AngloGold Ashanti supported local economic development and strengthened its operational stability and reputation.
These cases underscore that investing in community relationships is a strategic approach that enhances operational efficiency, mitigates risks, and fosters sustainable development.
IT’S TIME TO LEAD THE TRANSFORMATION
The world is changing—climate concerns, ESG expectations, and social activism are rewriting the rules for mining. Companies stuck in archaic extractive models will fall behind. Those who intentionally embrace mining with purpose will unlock new sources of resilience, competitiveness, and goodwill.
At Segilola Resources, we have seen what’s possible. We believe the future of mining is not just about what we take from the ground—but what we leave behind in the hearts, minds, and livelihoods of those around us. The question is no longer if this transformation will happen—but who will lead it.
Ebere Nwoji
Leadway Group, has said it sponsored Nigerian pavilion at the prestigious London Design Biennale which held between June 5 and 29, 2025.
The sponsorship, according to the group, is a decisive commitment to the global celebration and representation of the next generation of Nigerian creatives through international convergence of Nigerian culture,
innovation, and creativity. Speaking on the event, the Group Managing Director, Leadway Holdings, Tunde Hassan-Odukale, said Leadway believed that the intersection of culture, creativity, and commerce held immense power to shape society and inspire progress.
“Our support of Nigeria’s participation at the London Design Biennale 2025 aligns with our bold affirmation of the global significance of Nigerian
artistry and innovation. This initiative is not merely about aesthetics; it’s about preserving heritage, amplifying our stories, and empowering the next generation of creative thinkers,” he explained.
According to him, through this platform, the Leadway group proudly invests in the limitless imagination of Nigerian youth and the enduring spirit that propels the nation forward.
Commenting, General, Center
for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC), Aisha Adamu Augie stated that Nigeria’s participation in this year’s London Biennale is critical to our collective goal of projecting the African heritage on the world stage.
She said it provided a veritable platform for the best of African design and talents to showcase their capabilities and inspire a lot more in the creative sector in the process.
$600million secured in the Bitget Protection Fund and real-time Proof of Reserves, which gives clients assurance of maximum transparency and security.”
Ebere Nwoji
The Educational arm of insurance industry, the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria (CIIN) recently championed the course of insurance awareness creation through hosting of Insurance Awareness Walk to flag off the Year 2025 Insurance Week, an annual event of the industry.
The exercise which brought together a broad spectrum of professionals from across the insurance and financial service sectors portrayed a picture of the institute’s penchant for unity, advocacy and marketing of the industry to the Nigerian public.
The awareness walk — a flagship tradition of Insurance Week — kicked off promptly at 7:00 am at the Lagos office of NEM Insurance Plc, where participants from many insurance institutions gathered in branded T-shirts
and caps, waving banners with messages promoting insurance education and inclusion. The exercise saw workforce of various insurance firms organising themselves as a team with their flags and banners conspicuously displayed and led by a fitness instructor.
Leadway Sponsors Nigerian Pavilion at London Design Biennale Event Firm Launches Institutional Services to Empower Fintech Innovation
Organised in squads the fitness walkers began the morning with aerobics and warm-up exercises, creating an atmosphere of excitement and engagement.
In obvious expression of her excitement on the mass turnout of insurance operatives for the exercise, President/Chairman of Council, CIIN, Mrs. Yetunde Ilori, commended the impressive turnout and passion shown by industry stakeholders. She said the awareness walk was more than just a tradition but also a movement.
Kayode Tokede
Climate Change: Construction Professionals Urged to Align Housing Models with Global Sustainability Movements
Bennett Oghifo
Professionals in the building and construction industry in the country have been advised to be mindful of the impacts of climate change in delivering their projects.
The President, Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN), Prince Akintoye Adeoye gave the advice at the inaugural Africa ESG Conference and Exhibition, the association organised in collaboration with the Mortgage Bankers Association of Nigeria, (MBAN) and the Nigerian UK Real Estate Society, in Lagos, recently.
The theme was ‘Sustainable Real Estate Value Chain, The Era of Green Initiatives in Africa’.
“You will all agree with me that our planet is changing. We are experiencing rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, flooding and desertification, which are increasingly disrupting our communities. As developers and stakeholders in the housing
sector, we just have to take that responsibility of ensuring that our buildings are energy efficient, climate resilient and environmentally friendly from design to material selection and from construction to occupancy, the time has come to align our housing models with the global sustainability movements.”
According to him, “The Africa ESG conference serves as a platform to reposition Nigeria and, indeed, much of Africa’s built environment for a more resilient and inclusive future. “By mainstreaming ESG principles, the real estate industry can proactively address issues such as carbon emissions, energy efficiency, climate resilience, design, affordable housing, ethical sourcing of materials, gender equity and governance transparency through engaging panel discussions, technical sessions, exhibitions and policy network.”
The President of MBAN, Mr Ayo Olowo-Okere said the African ESG Conference and
Exhibition 2025 “represents a significant milestone in our collective journey towards sustainable development, responsible investing and ESG innovation in Africa’s real estate and financial sectors, we are proud to be part of this platform that brings together fund lenders, innovators, regulators and industry players to explore practical solutions to forge new partnership for a sustainable future in our country.
“As ESG consideration becomes increasingly important in shaping investment decisions and business strategies. This conference will not be more timely to the opportunity to learn from global best practices against local success stories. For stories align our collective effort with the principles of environmental stewardship, social responsibility and strong governance. MBAN Remains committed fully to advancing ESG principles within the mortgage banking sector and supporting our members in integrating sustainability into
our core operations.”
The Lagos State Commisioner for Housing, Hon. Moruf Akinderu Fatai, who was represented by Mrs. Kemi Fosudo, said, “Sustainable green estate plays
a social role in shaping Africa’s green future, as the world tackles climate change in the 21st Century. Human induced climate change poses significant threats to food security, ecosystems,
water supply, health and more, demanding urgent attention, if left unchecked, its severe impact will likely lead to environmental refugees and resource driven conflicts.”
Lagos Accounts for 55.1% of Total Building Collapse Cases in Nigeria, Says BCPG
Bennett Oghifo
A nongovernmental organisation, the Building Collapse Prevention Guild (BCPG), has said that the unending collapse of buildings in the country was as a result of a combination of factors, such as owners/developers not engaging
the right professionals, use of substandard materials, unhealthy rationing of inputs, skills gap and that Lagos State accounts for 55.1% of the total cases of
L-R: President, Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB), Prince Babatunde Oguntade; Founder/CEO, Standard Insurance Consultants Ltd, Professor Ahmed bin Salawudeen; former President of NCRIB, Dr Sanusi Teslim; and Executive Secretary/ CEO, NCRIB, Mr. Tope Adaramola, at the Standard Insurance Consultants Ltd’s CEO’s presentation of N50 million donation for the NCRIB’s building project in Lagos ... recently
building collapse cases in the country.
Members of BCPG stated these, recently, at the site of a building that collapsed on Obafemi Awolowo Way, Ikorodu, Lagos on May 27, this year.
Builder Kunle Awobodu, a past president of the Nigerian Institute of Building, and pioneer President of Building Collapse Prevention Guild, “It is sad that in the country we are having, as of today, not less than 1,621 people dead as a result of building collapse, and also we have about 659 buildings that have collapsed up to today.”
Awobodu, a member of the Board of Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria, said BCPG gets its information from different construction sites through their members who reside in these communities.
These professionals liaise with
U.S.-based Proptech Firm Unveils Platform in
Fadekemi Ajakaiye
A United State-based proptech firm, Contract2Close.Com (C2C) has officially launched its transaction management platform in Nigeria.
The platform is expected to significantly boost efficiency, transparency, and professionalism in property transactions, especially as the sector grapples with increasing demand and complexity. C2C was designed to manage real estate transactions from start to finish—offering tools that cover contract creation, task tracking, document management, team collaboration, and secure client communications.
The platform’s entry comes at a time when diaspora investment makes up more than 70 percent of new property inflows in Nigeria, according to analysts. With investor expectations growing
and compliance requirements becoming stricter, experts say tools like NG.Contract2Close. Com could help bridge the gap between local realities and global standards.
The platform has been widely adopted by agents and brokerages in the U.S., and its entry into Nigeria marks a new chapter for the country’s digital property ecosystem. Industry players have welcomed the development, noting the growing need for digital solutions that can match the pace of Nigeria’s urban expansion and rising investor interest, particularly from the diaspora.
Already, several Lagos-based firms have started onboarding the system, encouraged by its simplicity and adaptability to local practices. The company has also established a Nigeria-based support team to assist agents and brokers with implementation,
training, and technical integration.
The real estate sector in Nigeria, particularly in urban hubs like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, continues to attract domestic and international investors. But transaction bottlenecks—caused by inconsistent paperwork, poor communication, and lack of transparency—have slowed progress and undermined trust.
As the Nigerian real estate market continues to evolve, NG.C2C may well become an essential partner in shaping the future of property deals—one streamlined transaction at a time. The platform was created by seasoned professionals who understand the relentless demands of the real estate industry, born out of a collective experience, with a mission to eliminate the sleepless nights and missed deadlines that often
Nigeria,
plague this dynamic field.
“Real estate professionals in Nigeria often navigate fragmented, paper heavy and manual processes. Modified for the local Nigerian market, C2C is here to change that,” said Lauren Merdinger, the company’s founder and CEO. “Our platform provides a single, secure place to manage real estate deals —making property transactions clearer, faster, and more accountable.”
“I built C2C not from a techdeveloper’s lens, but from the field level—grounded in the day-to-day realities of agents and brokers who manage transactions under pressure, and with little support. Our platform was built from the agent side up, and our mission is simple: to meet the market where it is—not to demand that the market rise to meet us.
the artisans working in these sites, stating, “We have really come a long way. And what inspires us is when you are a field man working all over in the formal and informal sectors, and we are able to discover some of the shortcomings, then, for the purpose of preventing unnecessary loss of life and property, we decided to come together as environment professionals, Architects, Engineers, Builders, Estate Surveyors and Valuers, Quantity Surveyors, Surveyors, Town Planners, Geologists, and also building artisans.”
This enabled them to put up a structure that covers all the nooks and crannies, a grassroots approach to preventing building collapse.
“So those of us with each professional body in the build environment submitted names of professionals according to local governments where they
are living, or where they are working. And anything happening in your area, about building construction, you pay attention to it, and we have a lot of information. So that network was so fantastic and effective to the extent that building artisans will call you at a site that we are about to embark on concrete work here, but we are being persuaded to reduce the number of bags of cement that will not give us the required strength.
“There is hardly a site where a building collapsed. Some of those workers there will give us primary information about the site and that has been the advantage of the network that we built over the years. “But the problem of response could be discouraging to them. We should learn to respond fast to all those alerts from our building artisans and professionals in the field.”
Streamlines Property Deals
“The platform is designed specifically for Nigeria—stripped of extras they don’t need now (like embedded e signature) and priced so that the average agent can subscribe to it without hesitation,” she said.
“This tool couldn’t have come at a better time,” said Gbenga Ismail, a local partner and Managing Partner, Gbenga Ismail and Partners, an estate surveying and valuation firm. “From contract execution to deal closure, Nigerian agents now have access to the same modern toolkit used in more developed markets.”
“C2C the structure and discipline we’ve been lacking,” noted Kehinde Olumide, a Lagosbased property manager. “For clients, it builds confidence. For professionals, it reduces costly errors.”
Founded in the United States, C2C is transaction management
software designed to simplify the homebuying and leasing process. It integrates workflow automation, deadline tracking, document management, and communication into a seamless interface tailored for real estate professionals.
R-L: Chairman, First Investment Development Company, Mr Adebisi Adebutu; Head of Joint Venture, Arch. Adeyemi Olumuyiwa; Director, Legal Service, Lagos State Ministry of Housing, Mrs Bukade Idowu-Koya; and Lagos State Commissioner for Housing, Hon. Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, during site inspection at Ilubirin Foreshore Housing Project, Lagos Island, yesterday
A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.
An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the
floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.
A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.
GUIDE TO DATA:
Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 30 June-2025, unless otherwise stated.
DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS
Expert Recommends Key Reforms to Tackle Building Collapse in Nigeria
Nume Ekeghe
A leading construction expert, Rita Bolusemihi, has highlighted critical measures to prevent the frequent incidence of building collapse in Nigeria, urging for greater collaboration among professionals and stricter adherence to construction standards across the sector.
Bolusemihi, who is the Managing Consultant and Head of Projects at Wilmeb Nigeria Limited, identified poor coordination among built environment professionals, improper material specifications, disregard for onsite realities, and inaccurate load assumptions as major contributors to structural failure.
Bolusemihi, an Architect made the remarks while speaking as a Panellist at BusinessDay Sustainable Building Conference 2025 with the theme: “Sustainable
Practices and Financing Solutions for the Nigerian Construction Sector,” held in Lagos over the weekend.
She noted that Architects often finalise designs without early, detailed input from structural engineers, pointing that this lack of coordination can result in load paths being poorly considered, especially in complex cantilevered or irregular forms.
She said, “Architects and consultants should work closely with contractors and site engineers early in the design phase to understand limitations and integrate practical construction methods.”
She further noted that if loads are underestimated, the building may not be strong enough to handle real-world conditions, increasing the risk of structural failure or collapse.
On overlooking construction realities, she said design safety
could be compromised when architects do not account for on-site construction limitations or potential deviations, especially with unskilled labour or informal contractors.
Speaking to the theme of the Conference on how professionals can lead the charge in promoting circular design and sustainable materials in Nigerian construction sector, she said ‘Architects have the unique position of shaping sustainability narratives early in the building lifecycle.
On regulatory reforms needed to drive green building, she said this will help elevate the role of architectural consultants in sustainable development, advocating for Mandatory Green Certification, Incentivised Green Codes that offer tax incentives, Consultant Empowerment through Contracts, Professional Capacity Building and Local Standards Development.
FG Rallies Private Sector for Intra-African Trade Fair
With less than six months to go until the fourth edition of the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2025) in Algeria, Nigerian trade and investment officials are ramping up efforts to mobilise the private sector and boost the country’s footprint in Africa’s $3.4 trillion single market under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
This is even as the federal government revealed yesterday that plans are underway to launch Nigeria’s national intellectual property policy and strategy before the end of this month.
Speaking at a roadshow in Lagos via zoom, the Minister, Federal Ministry of industry, trade and investment, Dr. Jumoke
Oduwole, urged Nigerian businesses to take advantage of the fair as a platform to scale regionally. She stated that the IATF is not just an exhibition, but rather a bridge to markets, partners, and policy dialogue across the continent. According to her, this is Nigeria’s opportunity to lead from the front in operationalising the AfCFTA.
Organised by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) in collaboration with the African Union and the AfCFTA Secretariat, the IATF brings together thousands of buyers and sellers from across Africa and the diaspora to foster trade and investment linkages. The 2025 edition will be hosted in Algiers, Algeria, from
September 4–10, 2025 under the theme; “Harnessing Regional and Continental Value Chains: Accelerating Africa’s Industrialization and Global Competitiveness under the AfCFTA.”
Echoing Oduwole’s remarks, the Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Nonye Ayeni, highlighted the need for Nigeria to shift from export ambition to execution.
Also speaking at the event, the Executive Vice President of Intra-African Trade Bank at Afreximbank, Kanayo Awani, said the 2025 fair will feature seven days of high-level business engagements, trade deals, cultural showcases, and creative economy forums.
Why More Nigerians Are Turning to Golden Terra Oil
The average Nigerian market is a theatre of colours, scents, and voices. From the lively banter of traders to the glittering rows of bottles and sachets jostling for attention, every corner promises something new. In this daily spectacle of choice, cooking oil remains one of the most contested categories. Shoppers, armed with shopping lists and personal preferences, pause before aisles filled with promises of purity, affordability, and health. Still, among all the noise and choices, one brand has steadily become a trusted fixture in Nigerian homes: Golden Terra Oil.
Made from 100% Pure Soya Oil, Golden Terra Oil is steadily winning hearts not by shouting the loudest, but by delivering on what matters most to Nigerian families:
health, taste, and trust. In a time where rising health concerns like hypertension and high cholesterol are reshaping conversations about what we eat, more Nigerians are making the conscious shift towards oils with proven nutritional benefits. Rich in Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFA) known for lowering bad cholesterol and supporting heart health, Golden Terra Oil is one of the few everyday cooking staples backed by nutritional science and loved for preserving the original flavours of Nigerian dishes. Alongside PUFA, it boasts essential nutrients like MUFA and Vitamin E, ensuring that health-conscious eating never has to come at the cost of culinary tradition. But perhaps what sets Golden Terra Oil apart is its approach beyond the shelf. It’s not just a brand selling
oil but feeding knowledge. Through ongoing consumer education campaigns from nutrition facts across media platforms to hearthealth conversations, the brand consistently provides consumers with relevant information to make smarter, informed choices about their meals and wellbeing.
According to Probal Bhattacharya, Chief Marketing Officer, TGI Group, “It’s been incredibly rewarding to see how Nigerians have connected with not just our products, but the values behind them.
The positive feedback from rising sales to the heartfelt response to our campaigns reminds us why we do what we do. More than ever, people are making informed, health-driven choices, and we’re proud to be part of that journey.
Stanbic IBTC Bank Wins Trade Finance Award
Stanbic IBTC Bank has been honoured with the Best Trade Finance Bank in West Africa award at the Global Trade Review (GTR) Awards in London.
The award recognises the bank’s exceptional performance in trade finance and its commitment to delivering innovative solutions.
Commenting on the award, Executive Director of Corporate and Transaction Banking, Stanbic IBTC Bank, Eric Fajemisin, in a statement emphasised the impor-
tance of trade finance in fostering economic development: “Trade finance is vital for the growth and sustainability of businesses, especially in emerging markets. This award is a recognition of our efforts to empower businesses and contribute to the overall economic progress of West Africa. We remain focused on enhancing our service offerings and supporting our clients in achieving their trade objectives and beyond.”
The recognition at the GTR Awards underscores Stanbic IBTC Bank’s leadership and expertise in trade financing
solutions, positioning the bank as a vital partner in promoting international trade across West Africa. The bank’s ongoing commitment to innovation and customer-centric solutions continues to drive its success in the competitive trade finance landscape.
Head, Transaction Banking, Stanbic IBTC Bank, Jesuseun Fatoyinbo, shared insights on the significance of the recognition, “This Award of Best Trade Finance Bank in West Africa is not only an honour but a responsibility.”
Saharan Blend
Djeno
(Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic
Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).
L-R: : National Head of Sales, First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Mr. Emmanuel Comla; Regional Head, Lagos, Mrs. Omowunmi Kalejaiye; Otunba of Sangotedo Kingdom, Otunba Tunde Johnson; Chairman, Eti-Osa East Local Council Development Area, John Ogundare; Aro of Ogombo Kingdom, Chief Lukman Lawal and FCMB’s Group Head, Operations and International Trade Services, Mr. Ademola Idowu, at the commissioning ceremony of the Bank’s new branch at Sangotedo, Lekki-Epe Expressway, Lagos… recently
Nume Ekeghe
Aradel Holdings, Wema Bank Outpace Others to NGX- 30 Index
Kayode Tokede
The Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), yesterday announced that it has replaced Conoil Plc and Julius Berger Plc with Aradel Holdings Plc and Wema Bank Plc in the NGX 30 Index.
Announcing the result of its half year (H1) market index review, the Exchange disclosed new entry and exit of some companies from several indices which took effect at the open of the market on
Tuesday,July 1, 2025. The review covers the following indices: NGX 30; NGX Lotus Islamic; NGX Pension; NGX Pension Broad Index; Corporate Governance Index; Afrinvest Bank Value Index; Afrinvest Dividend Yield Index; Meristem Growth Index and Meristem Value Index.
Also, the five Sectoral Indices of The Exchange: NGX Banking, NGX Insurance, NGX Industrial, NGX Consumer Goods and NGX Oil & Gas.
For the NGX Consumer Goods Index, Mc Nicholas Consolidated Plc replaces Golden Guinea Breweries Plc.
Lasaco Assurance Plc takes over in the NGX Insurance Index as Fortis Global Insurance Plc and International Energy Insurance Plc take exit.
Austin Laz and Company replaces Notore Chemical Industries Plc in the NGX Industrial Index.
For the Afrinvest Div Yeild,
Access Holdings Plc, FCMB Group Plc, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc takes over. Wema Bank Plc, Chemical and Allied Product Plc, Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc replaces Fidelity Bank, Transnational Corporation Plc, United Bank for Africa, Unilever Nigeria Plc and Guiness Nigeria Plc in the Meristem Growth Index.
In the Meristem Value Index, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc takes
exit while United Bank for Africa, Unilever Nigeria Plc and Guiness Nig Plc takes over.
For the NGX Banking, NGX Oil and Gas, NGX Pension, NGX Lotus Islamic, Corporate Governance, NGX Pension Board and Afrinvest Bank Value indices, there was no record reported for them.
This review was designed using the market capitalisation methodology. The indices are rebalanced
on a semi-annual basis on the first business day in January and in July respectively. The Chief Executive Officer, NGX,Mr Jude Chiemeka in a statement reiterated that the Exchange continues to blaze the trail on the path to becoming Africa’s foremost securities exchange with innovation and product development that deepen the market and boost liquidity, thus connecting Nigeria, Africa and the world.
Inauguration of Collector Road CN8 (Asuquo Okon Street) from Arterial Road N5 (Obafemi Awolowo Way) to Arterial Road N1 and other connecting Roads in Dakibiyu, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, yesterday.
Minister of State FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, Vice President Kashim Shettima and Chairman of the Senate Committee on FCT Area Council, David Jimkuta
Area Council Chairmen
Senators Ifeanyi Ararume, Senator Allwell Heacho Onyesoh, David Jimkuta, Vice President Kashim Shettima and FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike
Vice President Kashim Shettima moving round with FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to greet former Governors of Abia, Benue and Enugu, Okezie Ikpeazu, Samuel Ortom and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, as well as Senator Mao Ohuabunwa and PDP National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu
Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, former Governors of Enugu, Benue and Abia States, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Samuel Ortom and Okezie Ikpeazu
Former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chibudom Nwuche, Senator Olaka Nwogu, APC National Vice Chairman (South South), Hon Victor Giadom, his PDP counterpart, Chief Dan Orbih, Senator Magnus Abe, Senator Sandy Onoh and Marcus Nleejii
Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, PDP National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, Chief Emma Anyanwu, Senator Philip Aduda and former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chibudom Nwuche
FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike and Minister of State FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud
The commissioned road
R-L: Minister of State FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, Vice President Kashim Shettima, FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, Chairman of the Senate Committee on FCT Area Council, David Jimkuta and MD, O.K Osokariari Nigeria Ltd, Mr. O.K Osokariari
Photo
Prof.
recently
Hon.
Supervisor for Women Affairs,
State Commissioner
and Rector, Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Kwara State, Dr. Kamoru Kadiri Oluwatoyin,
the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between NRC and five tertiary institutions on the development of manpower in Railway Engineering Technology, held in Lagos… recently
President of Sierra Leone and current Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), President Julius Maada Wonie Bio (middle), flanked by Chairman of Cubana Group, Dr. Obinna Iyiegbu (right), and Managing Director/CEO, Pointek Limited, Mr. Emeka Oguchi (left), during a courtesy call on President Bio in Freetown, Sierra Leone…recently
L-R: Regional Sales Manager, North West Region, Intercontinental Distillers Limited (IDL), Mr. Olakunle Busari; Insight and Category Manager, IDL, Mr. Samson Opaleye; His Royal Majesty, Ologidi of Ogidi, Oba Rafiu Oladimeji Sule; and National Sales Manager, North, IDL, Mr. Frederick Usman, during the presentation of Eagle Aromatic Schnapps to the Ologidi of Ogidi ahead of the 2025 Ogidi Day in Ijumu, Kogi State… recently
L-R: Corporate Communications Executive, Airtel Nigeria, Princess Osehobo; Learning Team Coordinator, 3MTT, Theophilus Osifo; Community Coordinator, 3MTT Lagos State, Oluwaseyi Ayodele; and Lead, Corporate Social Responsibility, Airtel Nigeria, Victoria Ndu, during the 3MTT programme launch and industry mixer in Lagos supported by Airtel Nigeria as part of its sponsorship of the Three Million Technical Talents (3MTT) of the federal government to which Airtel has donated N1billion towards the training of 25 million young Nigerians across 45 LGAs.
L-R: Former Surulere Local Government Area Secretary, Hon. Ganiyu Akanni; President, GBAJA FKL Group, Hon. Olanrewaju Giwa; businesswoman,
Oluwakemi Akande-Martinez; Guest Lecturer,
Abdulrasheed Ojikutu;
Surulere LGA, Hon. Ganiyat All-Balogun; and Lagos
for Local Government Service Commission, Hon. Hakeem Bamgbola, at the Public Lecture organised by members of GBAJA/FKL in commemoration of 63rd birthday anniversary of the Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, held in Surulere, Lagos…
L-R: Consultant Gynaecologist, Dr. Amdii Ndayi; Customer Experience Executive of the firm, Mary Isaac; Embryologist, Janefrances Ugwuodo; Business Development Manager, Lawrencia Obi; and Business Manager, Marvelous Ochoga, at the June 25 Welcome Forum -On Real Conversation on ‘Does Low Sperm Count Affect Her Fertility?’, held in Abuja… recently
PHOTO: JULIUS ATOI
L-R: Lawmaker representing Mainland federal constituency in the House of Representatives/member, House Committee on Land Transport, Hon. Olanrewaju Oshun; Managing Director, Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr. Kayode Opeifa; Rector, Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, Dr. Abdul Jimoh Mohammed; representative of the Rector, Yaba College of Technology and Deputy Rector, Academics, Yaba College of Technology, Ismail Badmus; Vice Chancellor, Trinity University, Yaba, Prof. Olusegun Olaniran Kolawole;
at
EDUCATION
GASDI Conference: Charting New Path for Sustainable, Equitable Development
In response to worldwide crises, the Global Affairs and Sustainable Development Institute at Osun State University recently held the 2025 International Sustainable Development Dialogue. The event brought together global and local experts to explore how science, the humanities and local knowledge can collaboratively advance sustainable and equitable development in an increasingly unstable world. Funmi Ogundare reports
Considering the global uncertainties stemming from climate change, political instability, and economic inequality, scholars, policymakers, and development practitioners from around the world recently converged on Osun State University for the fifth International Sustainable Development Dialogue (ISDD), organised by the Global Affairs and Sustainable Development Institute (GASDI).
Themed ‘Sustainable Development in the Age of Crisis: Humanities, Science and a More Equitable World’, in collaboration with Rosa Luxembourg, South Africa, the 2025 edition of the conference offered more than just academic deliberations. It emerged as a critical platform for cross-sector dialogue, promoting collaboration between science and the humanities to chart a more just and resilient future.
It aimed to foster intersectoral collaboration, strengthen policy implementation, and address inequality with urgency and empathy as the world races towards the 2030 SDG deadline amid growing global crises. The conference attracted scholars, policymakers and development practitioners.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Odunayo Clement Adebooye, described the theme as a timely response to a world plagued by insecurity, conflict, and economic disruption.
“There is no nation that is completely immune from crisis; only the magnitude and degrees of consequence may vary,” he said. “This dialogue is crucial because crisis-related challenges are fundamentally interconnected and transcend national borders.”
Referencing recent international tensions, including the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, the VC highlighted the global implications of such hostilities, citing humanitarian catastrophes, economic disruptions and geopolitical instability as pressing threats to sustainable development. Adebooye reaffirmed UNIOSUN’s commitment to supporting policy-relevant academic research and international collaboration in development discourse while expressing hope that the dialogue
L:R: Gareth Doherty, Associate Professor of Landscape Architecture at Harvard University, Associate Professor of Global Sustainable Development and Director of Research for School of Cross Faculty Studies, University of Warwick, Feng Mao, Prof. Moises Lino e Silva, of the Federal University of Bahia, Brazil, Prof. Rotimi Fasan (UNIOSUN), Princess Adedoyin Talabi Faniyi, caretaker of Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, Prof. John Agbonifo, Director, GASDI, UNIOSUN, a representative of the special guest of honour, Dr Thomas Ogungbangbe, and Prince Ojo Ejigbo, at the fifth International Sustainable Dialogue, organised by Global Affairs and Sustainable Development Institute, Osun State University, Osogbo... recently
would produce actionable communiqués and frameworks for future implementation.
The Director of GASDI, Prof. John Agbonifo, called for urgent, collaborative and adaptive approaches to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“The world has changed drastically. The strategies for sustainable development were crafted in an era of relative global stability, but we now live in fluid and unstable times,” Agbonifo said. “With ongoing conflicts such as Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Iran, it’s clear that the original roadmap to the SDGs cannot remain static. We must adapt or risk falling short.”
Agbonifo told THISDAY that the current crises expose the fragility of global development frameworks and the urgent need to rethink both the means and partnerships for achieving sustainability targets.
But despite the bleak outlook, he noted that the conference is grounded in hope.
“We’re not giving up. Even in uncertain times, there are pathways we can forge together to negotiate these crises,” Agbonifo said.
He also identified a key barrier to recognising the integrated nature of the SDGs, saying that fragmented and uncoordinated efforts across institutions undermine national progress.
“You can’t achieve goal one (no poverty) without addressing goal four (quality education) or goal
five (gender equality). “If hospitals, schools and religious institutions are not aligned with gender equality policies, or if ministries act in silos, then real progress becomes impossible,” added Agbonifo.
He cited sexual violence cases against minors, where informal settlements often derail justice, pointing out that “when perpetrators are allowed to walk free through private arrangements, it sends the wrong message”, undercutting “our commitment to gender justice” and perpetuating a cycle of impunity.”
Agbonifo stressed the need for interdisciplinary collaboration, saying that participants must recognise the SDGs not just as policy goals but as a shared ethical and societal responsibility.
“Compassion, equity and innovation must converge if we hope to build a more sustainable and just world,” he said.
A former Director General of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS), Prof. Taofeek Ladan, who spoke on ‘Strategies for Accelerating the Realisation of the UN SDGs in Africa’, expressed concerns about Africa’s lagging progress towards the SDGs, warning that most targets are off-track, particularly in the areas of poverty reduction, energy access and gender equality.
According to Ladan, who joined virtually, only 35 per cent of SDG targets in Africa are on track or show moderate progress. A staggering 27 per cent show minimal movement, while 80 per cent of energy-related targets have actually regressed below 2020 levels, based on recent data from the African Development Bank.
He noted that the impact of COVID-19 and ongoing crises across African nations has significantly derailed efforts to eradicate poverty, as outlined in SDG 1, adding that Africa now accounts for 9 per cent of the world’s poor and progress in building robust social protection systems remains uneven.
NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com
Student’s Vision Births First Supreme Model United Nations Club
Oluchi Chibuzor
In a groundbreaking initiative, the maiden Supreme Model United Nations (MUN) club has heralded a new era for youth leadership, global awareness and championed by a year 10 student, Sekemi Ayeni as the founder and president.
The initiative, designed to promote excellence and celebrate the power of knowledge, provided a vital platform where brilliant young participants would be challenged to dig deep, think critically and express themselves with confidence and clarity.
Speaking at the maiden Supreme MUN one-day spelling bee and current affairs event, recently, and sponsored by Bell Oil and Gas, the Principal,
Supreme Education Foundation (SEF), Mr. Yusuf Abubakar lauded Ayeni’s courage and determination in developing her ideas.
“The competition is more than just a contest of words, it actively promotes academic excellence, confidence, and teamwork. Participants demonstrated mastery of language and staying informed about the world. This initiative directly aligns with the Sustainable Development Goal Four: Quality Education,” he said. Ayeni, a spectator at a one-day MUN conference, was captivated by the idea of Model United Nations – a simulation of the UN. Unable to participate then, the experience ignited a passion, leading her to initiate something new at her current
school. With the support of friends who became executives and the school management approval, her vision came to fruition, driven by a passion for international affairs.
According to her, “the idea was birthed from my old school after a one-day MUN conference. I saw it and I liked the idea, but I couldn’t participate then because I was a year seven student.
I have a passion for Model United Nations and to become an international citizen, basically.”
The CEO, Bell Oil and Gas, Dr. Kayode Thomas, promised that the company would continue to support initiatives that promote education and knowledge improvement.
According to him, “fundamental difference often observed between private and public institutions
in fostering such initiatives is funding, which impacts access to quality teachers, infrastructure, facilities, tools and technology. However, it is suggested that even without extensive resources, these events can be brought to public schools to empower students to start small and become local champions.
A member of the advisory board, Supreme MUN club, Mrs. Kemi Shonubi, who emphasised the importance of courage, said that young people must learn to speak up about their dreams and aspirations, rather than letting ideas die within them.
“I do encourage seeking assistance from coaches and mentors, as you can see that the founder herself sought support from the school and partners,” she said.
KEY Academy Shortlisted for World’s Best School Prize in Innovation
Nigeria’s efforts in shaping the future of work through innovative knowledge impartation have been recognised by a global organisation, T4 Education, as part of its moves to champion change and build future-ready talents.
Through its ‘World’s Best School Prizes’, T4 Education has been motivating institutions to adopt best practices and enable learning that blends academic rigour with creative discovery, connecting learners to the real world.
The prestigious learning award recognises outstanding efforts in five key areas: Community Collaboration, Environmental Action, Innovation,
Overcoming Adversity, and Supporting Healthy Lives.
For this year’s edition, the organisation shone a spotlight on a Nigerian academy, Keep Educating Yourself (KEY), for its outstanding and holistic learning approach, which earned it a prestigious nomination among the top ten finalists in the innovation category.
Lagos-based KEY academy was recognised, among other innovations, for its project-based learning (PBL) model, which prioritises critical thinking,
creativity, and real-world problem-solving over the traditional model. By adapting the PBL framework to Nigeria’s unique context, the academy strikes a balance between creative exploration and academic rigour, empowering students to solve real-world problems through collaborative projects.
Founder of T4 Education, Vikas Pota, emphasised the need for young people to be creative and adaptable to keep pace with the evolving digital era.
“As AI revolutionises our world, transforming learning and rendering centuries-old jobs obsolete,
young people face an uncertain future amidst growing challenges like climate change, conflict, poverty, and populism,” said Pota. “In this precarious landscape, a human-centred education thus becomes more crucial than ever.”
Founder of KEY Academy, Damilola Okonkwo, expressed excitement about being the first Nigerian to receive recognition in the innovation category, stating that it has further motivated the academy to pursue its long-term goal of driving policy reform and catalysing lasting, multi-generational changes to uplift Nigerians.
Corona School Agbara Celebrates Another Cohort of Trailblazers, Eyes Future Expansion, Societal Impact
Oluchi Chibuzor
Corona Secondary School, Agbara, has celebrated the graduation of its latest cohort, the class of 2025, describing the 72 students as trailblazers, even as the school continues to pursue future expansion and societal impact.
The school stated that the event underscored its long-standing commitment to academic excellence, character development and preparing students for significant global contributions.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, the principal, Innocent Oaikhena, said that each graduation day is a moment of profound satisfaction, akin to an architect celebrating the completion of a major project.
“For me, it is when those ones graduate, and more importantly, when they go out there to make an impact in the world. This year’s graduating class, consisting of 72 students, was hailed as a unique set distinguished by impeccable character and the spirit of trailblazers who set records and break records,” Oaikhena said.
The principal highlighted the remarkable academic prowess of their students, noting that 27 students scored above 300 in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), with one student achieving an impressive 36, arguably the best in Ogun State.
He added, “Beyond academics, their all-round capabilities were evident in a recent sporting competition, where they secured an astounding 18 out of 22 available medals among over 20 competing schools, leaving the remaining 19 schools to vie for just four medals.”
The school’s core mission, as articulated by the principal, is to deliver world-class education to children. This mission extends beyond textbooks to the inculcation of high moral and ethical values, preparing students for lifelong learning, service, fulfilment, and, critically, leadership.
“The emphasis on soft skills like empathy, taught through extensive
community service projects, is a cornerstone of their education,” Oaikhena explained. “Students in each year group actively adopt different schools, homes, and underserved places such as schools for the blind or orphanages. They contribute financially from their pocket money, organise fundraising exercises, and trade to raise funds for initiatives like donating libraries and books.”
Echoing the principal’s sentiments, the school
board’s chair, Olaniyi Yusuf, reiterated that while every graduating set is unique, a consistent focus on excellence and values is integral to all Corona graduates.
Looking ahead, the board chair highlighted the school’s recent 70th anniversary celebration, attended by distinguished alumni, including the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, a former vice-president, and a former state governor.
“This milestone prompts a forward-looking vision for the next 70 years. Having established a nursery, primary, secondary, and a college of education, the board is now actively exploring the establishment of a Corona University to provide a complete educational continuum,” Yusuf said.
In his keynote, guest speaker and Project Director of The Ark Legacy, Dr. Gbenga Alalade, charged the students to maintain a state of perpetual learning, encouraging them to question everything from societal norms to government effectiveness and technological advancements.
Addressing the broader question of Nigeria as a fertile ground for big dreams, he asserted that location does not determine the scope of one’s aspirations. Alalade also urged Corona and its alumni to leverage their success to scale the school’s impact.
The mother of the overall best student, Mrs. Anne Nnorom, shared her family’s rewarding experience with the school.
“The investment in this place is nothing compared to the exposure it gave Princess,” said Nnorom. “She has secured a scholarship to the University of Toronto and another to the University of Alberta, so the returns far exceed what we’ve put in.”
Don Urges Students to Serve Humanity as Iseyin College Matriculates 1,300
Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan
The Provost of Iseyin College of Science and Health Technology, Prof. Oluwasogo Olalubi, has charged new students of the institution to use the period of their stay in the school and afterwards to serve humanity and transform their society.
He made this statement at the 2025 matriculation ceremony of the college, held at Ajelanwa Village, Iseyin, Oyo State, calling on the new
students to remain curious and focus on their academics to become architects of the country’s future.
The event featured the swearing of an oath by 1,300 students, of whom 1,000 gained admission to study health technology courses, while 300 were admitted to study education courses.
Olalubi said the students are not in the school merely as passers-by but to fulfil the threshold of destiny, stating that
the ceremony marked more than their formal admission but the beginning of a life-changing journey.
According to him, in choosing education and health sciences, they have answered a higher calling to serve humanity, promote well-being, and uphold the dignity of life.
“You have been called into a sacred order, not only to chase certificates but to transform society through the deployment of integrity, skills, expertise, cutting-edge technology and
innovations. Ideally, today is not really the beginning of school. It is the beginning of your significance and relevance within the community,” Olalubi said.
He also acknowledged the sustained mutual relationship between the institution and the host community, urging the people of Iseyin to continue supporting the college’s progress. Present at the event were representatives of traditional rulers, youth organisations and religious leaders, among others.
NAS, Nigerian Library Donate Books, Sensitise Rivers Students on Reading Culture
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
The Olympus Marino Deck of the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity), in partnership with the Rivers State chapter of the Nigerian Library Association (NLA), has donated books to Community Secondary School, Mgbuoshimini, Obio/Akpor LGA of Rivers State.
The association also launched a project titled ‘Reviving the Reading Culture in Secondary Schools in Rivers State’, at the school, encouraging the students to imbibe consistent reading habits.
In his remarks, the Capon of Olympus Marino Deck, Nnamdi Ilochi, stated that the programme aligns with the group’s commitment to educational advancement and social development.
Ilochi said the initiative seeks to address the
noticeable decline in reading habits among students by creating practical and sustainable platforms that promote literacy, foster critical thinking, and enhance academic performance.
“We believe that reading is not merely a skill. It is a pathway to knowledge, empowerment, and civic responsibility,” said Ilochi. “This aim as an organisation to reignite and institutionalise a strong reading culture among secondary school students through structured literary activities and increased access to reading materials.”
Ilochi stated that the initiative will also enhance academic performance and critical thinking by encouraging daily reading habits and exposure to diverse genres
of literature.
“It will strengthen school-community partnerships by involving teachers, parents, volunteers, and civil society in building a robust ecosystem for literacy and learning,” added Ilochi.
Stating that the challenges facing the educational system require collective action, Ilochi said, “Through this partnership, we aim not only to provide books and resources but also to inspire a cultural shift, one that sees reading as essential to personal growth and national development.
This project is a call to action to educators, parents, institutions, and leaders at all levels to invest in the intellectual future of our children.
A nation that reads is a nation that leads.”
Chairman of the NLA, Rivers State chapter, Dr. Nyemezu Chidaka, stated that the library
Entries Open for 11th Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition
Nigerian Breweries Plc has officially announced the call for entries for the 11th Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition. Submission of entries commenced on June 24 and will close on August 22, 2025. The Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition, a brainchild of the Nigerian Breweries-Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund, is an initiative that aims to recognise, celebrate, and reward exceptional teachers in Nigeria’s public and private secondary schools while inspiring excellence in teaching.
Eligible teachers can participate by visiting the
dedicated website (www. maltinateacheroftheyear.com) to complete the online entry form. Alternatively, they can download the form, complete it, scan it, and email the completed form to maltinateacheroftheyear@ heineken.com. Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Lagos, the Managing Director of Nigerian Breweries Plc, Hans Essaadi, represented by the Corporate Affairs Director, Uzodinma Odenigbo, reiterated the company’s commitment to honouring the invaluable contributions of teachers. Essaadi, who commended both lead and supporting spon-
sors — Union Bank of Nigeria Plc, Air Peace, and First City Monument Bank — for their consistent support and belief in the project, noted that the partnership has significantly helped sustain and grow the initiative year after year.
While appreciating the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), the Teachers’ Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), and the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS) for treading the path with NB-Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund, he stated that their support has been vital in ensuring the credibility and
reach of the competition.
“Today, we begin another chapter in this story, a celebration of the men and women who give so much of themselves to nurture the minds and shape the future of the next generation,” Essaadi explained. “We are encouraged by how the competition continues to grow, from the number of entries we receive each year to the increasing involvement of partner organisations and even greater government engagement. It tells us one thing: our collective effort to raise the profile of teachers in Nigeria is working.”
decided to partner with the Seadogs on the project due to its significance in the lives of young people in society, especially in CSS Mgbuoshimini.
“One of the things that will improve the reading habits of the students is having an equipped library in the school. It is only when the library is in existence that children will have a love for books,” Chidaka noted. “Not just in their schools, they are supposed to have a library in their various homes.”
Chairman of the advocacy committee of Olympus Marino Deck, Emery Okwakpam, said, “We identified that there has been reading culture decline, especially in Rivers State, so we as a team decided to carry out the advocacy effort, to revive the reading culture in secondary schools in the state.”
L-R: Vice Principal, Pastoral, Corona Secondary School, Agbara, Mrs. Chito Ezike; head boy, class of 2025, Temiloluwa Awonubi; the Principal, Mr. Innocent Oaikhena; head girl, class of 2025, Oluchi Igbo; and the Vice Principal, Academics, Mrs. Mojisola Johnson, at the 2025 valedictory service of the school in Ogun State... recently
Ooni of Ife, Oba Ogunwusi (seated), with Otunba Stephen Fasawe, Vice-President, MMGS Old Students’ Association (right), and Prince Adeleke Adefowoju (left) during a courtesy visit to the Ooni... recently
TRIBUTE
Wale Babalakin: Celebrating a Man of Purpose @65
By Emmanuel Akanni
There are lives, and then there are legacies. For Dr. Bolanle Olawale Babalakin, SAN, OFR, who turns 65 on July 1, 2025, his life represents a journey of undeniably enduring legacies. For many, it is just another milestone. “Was it not just 365 days ago that his 64thbirthday was marked with family, friends, staff members and associates celebrating him?” such people would reason. But for those who have followed the extraordinary arc of the Ibadan-born legal luminary, astute businessman, philanthropist, and distinguished public intellectual, it is far more than a birthday celebration. It is a celebration of a life dedicated to the rigorous pursuit of excellence, a reaffirmation of the values of integrity, and a testimony to what one man can do with grace, grit, and uncommon brilliance.
To speak of Dr. Wale Babalakin, as he is fondly called, is to confront a paradox: a man intensely private and modest, yet profoundly public. From law to construction, from aviation to academia, and from business to philanthropy, he is a technocrat of great repute, whose actions echo loudly across sectors where he has left his footprints. He is a man with the Midas touch, best described as a lawyer who doubles as a dominant force in the business world. For him, law is his calling, business - one of his many hobbies.
The Ibadan years
Born on July 1, 1960, in Ibadan, to the late retired Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, esteemed Justice Bolarinwa Oyegoke Babalakin and Mrs. Ramotu Ibironke Babalakin, a pioneering female hospital proprietress, Dr. Babalakin was raised in a household steeped in discipline, excellence, and service. He would later mirror and magnify those values both in his family, legal practice and business.
After his early schooling at Sacred Heart Private School and the prestigious Government College, Ibadan, he proceeded to The Polytechnic, Ibadan, for his A-levels. He was then admitted into the Faculty of Law at the University of Lagos in 1978, graduating as one of the top three students in 1981 at just 21 years old.
By 22 years old, he had been called to the Nigerian Bar as a Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria. Then, in a move that foretold his intellectual ambition, he became one of only three Africans admitted into Corpus Christi College, University of Cambridge, for the pioneer Master’s in Law (LL.M). He earned the degree in 1983 and pressed forward to complete his PhD, on the eve of his 26th birthday. In less than 10 years, he had achieved such a scholarly feat that not many can boast of, thus setting the stage for a successful legal and entrepreneurial journey.
From thriving legal practice to business empire
Upon his return to Nigeria in 1986, Dr. Babalakin cut his teeth at the chambers of Chief Frederick Rotimi Williams, learning at the feet of one of Nigeria’s greatest legal minds. But he would not remain in anyone’s shadow for long; in 1987, he founded Babalakin & Co., now one of Nigeria’s leading law firms, known for its strong commercial and dispute resolution practice. The law firm is now a hub for elite lawyers, about 70 of them, carrying on Babalakin’s legacy of prowess, excellence and service.
In 2002, he was deservedly elevated to the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), and in 2007, conferred with the national honour of Officer of the Federal Republic (OFR), recognition not just of legal brilliance, but of national impact.
But to confine Dr. Babalakin to the legal corridor alone would be to miss the full picture. A polymath with a mind for infrastructure and an eye for detail, he ventured into business, building conglomerates that have contributed to Nigeria’s development and created jobs for thousands.
He is Chairman of Bi-Courtney Limited, the company responsible for the concession and construction of the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 2 (MMA2), Nigeria’s first and most enduring public-private partnership in aviation infrastructure. Where governments saw a problem,
Babalakin saw a possibility. The terminal, now in its 18th year, remains a gold standard for domestic air travel in Nigeria.
He also chairs Stabilini Visinoni Limited, a leading construction firm, and Resort International Limited, a leisure and hospitality company.
Through Alma Beach Estates Limited, Amalgamated Trustees Limited, and Homan Engineering Company Limited, Dr. Babalakin has further expanded his footprint in Nigeria’s real estate and infrastructure sectors, as well as the construction sector. His work is not just about profit; it is about nation-building. He would have turned the Lagos-Ibadan Express into a world-class corridor for both road and rail transport with modern rest areas, service plazas, stations and malls, but for the government’s policy somersault.
A statesman who heeds calls to public service
Despite his business success, Dr. Babalakin has never hesitated to heed the call to public service. In 2005, President Olusegun Obasanjo appointed him a member of the National Political Reform Conference, where he served on the Legal Reforms Committee and chaired the Constitution Drafting Sub-Committee.
He has also played a pivotal role in the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), chairing both the Real Estate and Construction Law Committee under the Section on Business Law and the Government Practice Committee under the Section on Legal Practice. His brilliance and versatility earned him further recognition as he was named Honorary Adviser to the Federal Government, alongside Alhaji Rilwanu Lukman, under President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua’s administration.
His most transformative public role, however, has arguably been in academia. Babalakin served as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council at the University of Maiduguri and later at the University of Lagos. As Chairman of the Committee of Pro-Chancellors of Federal Universities, he played a central role in university governance and policy formulation. He was appointed Chairman of the Implementation Monitoring Committee for the 2009 Federal Government agreements with university unions - ASUU, SSANU, NAAT, and NASU - and led the renegotiation efforts. Though challenging, he approached these roles with uncommon diligence and patriotic commitment.
An unpretentious philanthropist
In a country often plagued by performative generosity, Dr. Babalakin’s philanthropy stands out for its sincerity and scale. Through the Ramatu Ibironke Babalakin Foundation, named after his beloved mother, he has provided thousands of free eye treatments and surgeries across Osun, Ondo, and Kaduna States, restoring sight and dignity to the underserved.
His love for education is further reflected in his scholarship scheme, which has funded over 200 students in Nigerian universities and more than 40 students in foreign institutions. To him, education is not just empowerment; it is a legacy.
He donated an 80-bed hostel to the University of Ilorin in honour of his father and a 500-seat auditorium to Moshood Abiola Polytechnic in memory of his mother. In all this, he seeks no applause, only impact.
His country home, Gbongan, in Ayedaade Local Government of Osun State, is not left out of Dr. Babalakin’s benevolence, as the
community has been lifted with a 6,000-seater conference facility with meeting halls to cater to any world-class gathering.
He is the President of the Government College Ibadan Old Boys Association. Under his leadership, the association has refurbished the school and restored it to its pride of place among great schools in Nigeria. There has been monumental structural reconstruction, academic rejuvenation and administrative empowerment, since Dr Babalakin assumed the leadership of the prestigious association.
In 2013, he received the Merit Award of the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, alongside other national dignitaries, affirming the Islamic community’s recognition of his moral and material contributions to society.
A successful colossus at 65
At 65, Dr. Babalakin remains a man of calm intellect and relentless purpose. He is not one for social circuits or noisy self-promotion. Yet his impact resounds through airports, courtrooms, lecture halls, the construction industry and the lives of those he has quietly uplifted. He represents a rare breed of Nigerian elite who have refused to be swallowed by mediocrity or seduced by the vanity of title. His walk has always been steadier than his talk, and his works speak with more authority than his words ever could. For him, life is not about titles but purpose and impact. Otherwise, his 65thbirthday should be hallmarked with fresh chieftaincy titles from the nooks and crannies of Yoruba land in particular and Nigeria in general.
To the younger generation, he remains a symbol of what is possible with focus and doggedness. To his peers, he is a steady hand and voice of reason. To Nigeria, he is an invaluable asset, an institution in himself.
Family, faith and foundations
Babalakin is married to Olugbolahan Babalakin, daughter of the late Justice Y.A.O. Jinadu, herself a lawyer and legal administrator. Together, they have raised a family grounded in faith, learning, and service.
He is a devout Muslim, committed to the ethical tenets of his faith, which are integrity, humility, and compassion. These values are evident in his dealings, his speech, and the way he carries his success: never gaudy, always grounded.
Still flying, still serving
While many at 65 slow down to smell the roses, Dr. Babalakin is still planting orchards. He remains active in business, in legal advisory and national discourse. His mind is still sharp; his vision still clear.
His law practice has recently relocated to a new, ocean-front edifice, marking the beginning of a new era for the firm while signposting a recommitment to excellence in service delivery, a value Babalakin has imbibed from his early days.
The lawyer-turned-business czar is driven by a deep-seated belief in Nigeria’s potential and a personal conviction that true greatness lies in service. This is what keeps him going, not accolades, not applause, but the unshakable belief that one must leave a place better than one met it.
The legacy in progress
There are many lenses through which one can view the life of Dr. Babalakin: as a brilliant lawyer, a business strategist, a university administrator, a reform advocate, or a silent philanthropist. But perhaps the most accurate description is this: He is a man of purpose and impact. Like him or not, you cannot underemphasize his selfless service to humanity and investments in people. His greatest asset, arguably, remains the people he has built.
At 65 years old, Dr. Babalakin is not merely ageing gracefully; he is growing purposefully. He stands tall not because he is loud, but because his deeds are large. In an age of superficial achievements, he remains a man of substance. Happy 65th, Dr. Wale Babalakin, SAN, OFR. May your days be long, your vision sharp, and your impact ever enduring. History sees you, and posterity will remember.
Dr. Babalakin
ASO OKE FESTIVAL IN LAGOS...
L-R: Director, Finance and Logistics/Member of Organising Committee, Aso Oke, Mr. Kehinde Akintonde; Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olanrewaju Bajulaiye; and Director, Media and Publicity/Member, Organising Committee of Aso Oke, Ayo Idowu, during the two-day Aso Oke Festival at J-Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, Onikan, Lagos…recently
Trump Escalates Feud with Elon Musk, Threatens Tesla, SpaceX Support
Says U.S considering whether to deport world’s richest person
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
U.S. President Donald Trump yesterday threatened to cut off the billions of dollars in subsidies that Elon Musk’s companies receive from the federal government, in an escalation of the war of words between the president and the world’s richest man, one-time allies who have since fallen out.
The feud reignited on Monday when Musk, who spent hundreds of millions on Trump’s re-election,
renewed his criticism of Trump’s tax-cut and spending bill, which would eliminate subsidies for electric vehicle purchases that have benefited Tesla, the leading U.S. EV maker.
The bill passed the Senate by a narrow margin midday Tuesday.
“He’s upset that he’s losing his EV mandate and … he’s very upset about things but he can lose a lot more than that,” Trump told reporters at the White House yesterday, as reported by Reuters.
Though Musk has often said
government subsidies should be eliminated, Tesla has historically benefited from billions of dollars in tax credits and other policy benefits because of its business in clean transportation and renewable energy.
The Trump administration has control over many of those programmes, some of which are targeted in the tax bill, including a $7,500 consumer tax credit that has made buying or leasing EVs more attractive for consumers. Tesla
shares dropped more than 5.5 per cent Tuesday.
The Tesla CEO renewed threats to start a new political party and spend money to unseat lawmakers who support the tax bill, despite campaigning on limiting government spending.
Republicans have expressed concern that Musk’s on-again, offagain feud with Trump could hurt their chances to protect their majority in the 2026 midterm congressional elections.
Wike: Atiku Behind Allegation I Allocated Lands to My Children, It’s Futile Blackmail
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has alleged that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar is behind allegations that he allocated choice plots of land to his children in exclusive parts of Abuja.
In a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, Wike dismissed the accusation as futile blackmail.
Wike’s aide, who described the allegation as sponsored, insisted that no land had been allocated to any of his children in the FCT.
The statement said, in veiled reference to Atiku, “Let that fellow from Adamawa State, who is struggling to get at the FCT minister for supporting power rotation between the northern and southern parts of Nigeria put more efforts. This is because, just like
the one of last week, this one, too, has failed even before its commencement.”
The statement added that no amount of blackmail would stop Wike from continuing with his development efforts in the FCT in accordance with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. It said, “Last week, it was unfounded and poorly carried out propaganda of Wike allocating 2,082 hectares of land in Asokoro and Maitama to one of his sons, even when no such land is available in the two districts combined. They used a document showing allocation of land for farming in Bwari Area Council to a company, JOAQ Farms, to justify the falsehood.
“This week, it is a tale of allocation of land to another son of the minister because documents showed allocation of lands to a company, Jordan Farms.
“Even though, like other Nigerians, it is the rights of children of the
minister, his friends, associates and relatives to own lands anywhere in the country, including the FCT, provided all necessary conditions are met, as at today, no land has been allocated to any of the minister’s children.
“No doubt, land was duly allocated to Jordan Farms and Estates Limited, a company duly registered in Nigeria, with none of the children of the FCT minister as director of the company.
“That one of the sons of the FCT minister is Jordan and there is a company, Jordan Farms and Estates Limited, is no reason anyone should conclude that the company belongs to Wike’s son.”
He challenged those behind the stories to publish the names of the company’s owners, stating that the record of ownership of the company is available at the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
The statement added, “For instance, my name is Lere Olayinka, and
Nigeria to Launch ‘Africans for
Africa
The federal government has disclosed plans to formally launch the “Africans for Africa Fund” at the forthcoming African Natural Resources and Energy Investment Summit (AFNIS) scheduled to hold from July 15 to 17, 2025, in Abuja.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, who made the disclosure during a media briefing in Abuja, said the fund is designed to mobilise African capital for investment in mining, energy,
Fund’
there is Lere Local Government in Kaduna State. Do I own the Local Government? Am I even from Kaduna State? There are companies like Jordan Telecommunications, Jordan Foods, etc. Are they also owned by Wike’s son?
“In the United Kingdom, there is Jordan’s Farms. Is the company also owned by Wike’s son? On the document showing the name and signature of one of the minister’s security aides, the question to be asked is simple, who owns the company: Hyper Communications Limited?
“If I choose to assist my friend, associate or relative to collect property documents, does that confer ownership of the property on me?”
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent pushed back on Musk’s criticism that the bill would balloon the deficit, saying, “It ‘ll take care of” the country’s finances.
Musk spearheaded the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), aimed at cutting government spending, before he pulled back his involvement in late May.
Trump on Truth Social on Tuesday suggested Musk might receive more subsidies “than any human being in history, by far,” adding: “No more Rocket launches, Satellites, or Electric Car Production, and our Country would save a Fortune.”
Trump later doubled down, telling reporters with a smile, “DOGE is the monster that might have to go back and eat Elon,” he added.
In response to Trump’s threats, Musk said on his own social media platform X, “I am literally saying Cut It All. Now.” He later added that he could escalate the exchange with Trump but said, “I will refrain for now.”
The feud could create new challenges for Musk’s business empire, particularly as the electric automaker — his primary source of wealth — bets heavily on the success of its robotaxi programme currently being tested in Austin, Texas.
The speed of Tesla’s robotaxi expansion depends heavily on state and federal regulation of self-driving vehicles.
“The substance of Tesla’s valua-
tion right now is based on progress towards autonomy. I don’t think anything is going to happen on that front, but that is the risk,” said Gene Munster, managing partner at Tesla investor Deepwater Asset Management. Analysts expect another rough quarter when the EV maker reports second-quarter delivery figures on Wednesday. Sales in major European markets were mixed, data showed Tuesday, as Musk’s embrace of hardright politics has alienated potential buyers in several markets worldwide. The elimination of the EV credit could hit Tesla’s earnings by as much as $1.2 billion, about 17 per cent of its 2024 operating income, J.P. Morgan analysts estimated earlier this year.
Gary Black, a longtime Tesla investor who manages money for the Future Fund LLC, sold his shares recently as car sales declined. He told Reuters he is considering when to reinvest and that eliminating electric vehicle credits would harm Tesla. In a separate post on X, Black said: “Not sure why @elonmusk didn’t see this coming as a result of him speaking out against passage of President Trump’s big beautiful bill.”
The U.S. Transportation Department regulates vehicle design and will play a key role in deciding if Tesla can mass-produce robotaxis without pedals and steering wheels, while Musk’s rocket firm SpaceX has about $22 billion in federal contracts.
at AFNIS 2025 Minna General Hospital No Longer Serving Health Needs of Our People, Bago Declares
infrastructure, and industrialisation projects across the continent. He described the initiative as a shift from foreign dependence to intra-African financing, with the goal of enhancing ownership and control of the continent’s natural resources.
“This is not a slogan. It is a mindset shift. Africa must invest in Africa, we are done outsourcing our growth. The time has come to back our industries, innovations, and infrastructure with the resources we already have,” he said.
The fund is expected to serve as a key feature of the fourth edition of AFNIS, which will be held at the State House Conference Centre and is being organised by the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development in collaboration with strategic public and private sector partners.
This year’s summit, themed: ‘Harnessing Local Content for Sustainable Development’, will focus on industrialisation, value addition, energy transition, and cross-sector integration within the continent’s extractive and energy sectors.
Thumbs down on state of facility Mimiko: Nigeria must re-strategise to recover the brain drain in health sector
Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has thumbed down the Minna general hospital, saying the hospital built more than 50 years ago could no longer serve the health needs of the people.
Bago also lamented that the bench in the eye centre was the one that has been there since he was a child.
The governor who paid an unscheduled visit to the hospital said the “facility has been overstretched for many years, and its current state
poses a serious challenge to effective healthcare delivery in the capital and beyond.”
In a related development, a former governor of Ondo State, Dr Olusegun Mimiko, has said the policies of government in the health sector, if adequately funded and pursued with needed determination would stem the emigration of health personnel from Nigeria and reduce gaping lapses in health care provision.
A statement by the governor’s Special Adviser on Print Media, Aisha Wakaso, disclosed that Bago has therefore declared a state of
emergency on the facility because of the urgent need to give it a total overhaul.
“The General Hospital Minna, in its present condition, can no longer serve its purpose. It is overstretched, outdated, and unsafe. What we need now is a modern, functional, and efficient health facility that reflects our vision for a healthier Niger State.
“Our administration is committed to building systems that work. Health is a priority, and we are determined to ensure that people feel the impact of government through visible improvements in healthcare delivery,” Bago submitted.
L-R: Former Commissioner for Health, Ogun State, Dr. Soyinka; MD of Krown
held in Lagos…recently
Matawalle to Military: Embrace Innovation, Strategic Foresight in Tackling Insecurity
Troops kill 10 terrorists, recover cache of arms, ammunition in northeast Police apprehend three wanted bandits, kidnappers in Abuja, Kaduna
The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has urged military authorities to shift their mindset to embrace innovation, sustainability, and strategic foresight in tackling emerging security threats in the country, as well as addressing logistics and mobility challenges in the military.
Matawalle also assured them that the Defence Ministry, under his supervision, remained committed to championing policies that not only enhance national security but also align with Nigeria’s economic, environmental, and developmental aspirations.
The minister stated this while commissioning over 80 CNG vehicles converted by the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PiCNG) for the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) at the Mogadishu Cantonment Parade Ground in Abuja, yesterday.
He stated that by transitioning a portion of the Armed Forces’ vehicles to CNG to reduce operational fuel costs and contribute to the national effort, the military authorities were also demonstrating innovation and adaptability in military logistics and mobility.
He said, “I am glad that the military is leading this public sector transition to cleaner energy. It is important to note that this transition is not a one-off event but the beginning of a long-term systematic change.”
The minister tasked the military high command to also focus attention on building supporting infrastructure, including CNG refuelling stations across military bases, and training technological personnel to maintain their systems.
The Armed Forces, he stressed, must plan for the seamless integration of sustainability and sustainable energy solutions into logistic operations and procurement.
He stated that this milestone would not have been possible without interagency cooperation and the robust support of partners in the energy and automotive industries.
He applauded the Defence Headquarters, the Chief of Defence Staff, and the Services for embracing this initiative with commendable enthusiasm.
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, said the introduction of CNG vehicles into the Defence Headquarters fleet was a clear demonstration of the federal government’s dedication to reducing carbon emissions, enhancing fuel efficiency, and ensuring cost-effective service delivery.
“Unlike traditional fuel sources, CNG offers a cleaner, safer, and more affordable alternative, aligning our mobility strategy with global best practices in sustainable development.
“Hence, this initiative is directly aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President of the Federal
Republic of Nigeria, which prioritizes innovation, energy efficiency, and sustainable development,” General Musa said.
He stated that the transition would enhance the operational effectiveness of the Nigerian military while supporting national development goals.
Earlier, in his welcome address, the Chief of Defence Logistics, Major General John Ochigbano, recalled that the federal government introduced the presidential initiative on compressed natural gas with the primary objective of transitioning Nigeria’s transportation and critical energy base from petrol to natural gas.
The transition, he stressed, was from petrol to cleaner and more affordable CNG as an alternative.
In his goodwill message, the Chief Executive Officer of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Initiative, Michael Oluwagbemi, promised to stand with the armed forces of Nigeria to achieve their objectives in migrating to cleaner and more cost-effective energy.
Meanwhile, troops of the Joint Task Force North East Operation Hadin Kai killed no fewer than 10 Boko Haram/Islamic State West African Province (ISWAP) terrorist fighters during a recent coordinated operation in their hideouts in the southern
Lake Chad region of Borno State.
Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, Headquarters, Theatre Command, Operation Hadin Kai, Captain Reuben Kovangiya, in a statement, yesterday, revealed that a large cache of arms and ammunition was recovered from the terrorists.
“During the operation, which was conducted between Rann and Gamboru Ngala, close to the Cameroon border at Manawaji, troops made contact with the terrorists.
Following the intense firefight, the determined and well-equipped troops eliminated 10 terrorists who, according to intelligence, had been disrupting peace in the general area.
“The gallant troops also recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition, including anti-aircraft ammunition, suspected to have been looted from an earlier attack on the Cameroonian Defence Force in Cameroon.”
Captain Kovangiya stated that while the resilient troops had been commended for the great feat, they had vowed to totally deny the terrorists freedom of action in the general area and sustain an offensive against the terrorists in the entire North East Region, in line with the directives of the Chief of Defence Staff, to achieve the mandate of Operation Hadin Kai.
Sylvester Idowu
Renowned Delta State peace and environmental justice advocate, Chief Sheriff Mulade, has lamented the deliberate neglect and non-implementation of the Delta State Anti-Open Grazing and Prohibition Law 2021. He alleged the law was enacted to only score political credit while vulnerable masses, especially farmers, were abandoned to their fate.
Speaking on the law, Chief Mulade,
Mimiko: Nigeria Must Re-strategise to Recover from Brain Drain in Health Sector
Former Governor of Ondo State, Dr Olusegun Mimiko, has declared that the policies of government in the health sector, if adequately funded and pursued with needed determination would stem the emigration of health personnel from Nigeria and reduce gaping lapses in health care provision.
Mimiko spoke yesterday at an event to mark the 81st Birthday of Senator Bode Olajumoke in Akure.
The former governor, who spoke on the theme: “Conqueror, Conquered and Consequences: A Discourse on Brain Drain,” organised by Bode Olajumoke Education & Hospitality initiative, (BOEHI), said to fully tackle the subject of brain drain, Africa must come to the realisation that it has moved from being “involuntarily conquered to
being voluntarily conquered.”
According to him, “The way out is for us all, particularly our leaders “to create circumstances and environment that will ensure that our brain is available for our services and development.”
Focusing on the debilitating effect of mass emigration of professionals in the health sector from Nigeria, Mimiko said, “Medical Health Revamp — System-wide reform anchored on increased funding” is the very first step towards preventing and reducing emigration of medical personnel from Nigeria. He said the implementation of the 15% Budgetary Allocation to Health as in the Abuja 2021 declaration was one needed step that has to be taken as opposed to the 5% maximum allocated to health thus far.
Here, however, insisted that, there was urgent need to devolve more power to the federating units and the need to legalise state and local policing as a means of tackling insecurity among others.
On his part, the Governor of Ondo State, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who was represented by his Deputy, Dr Olayide Adelami, lamented that “Poverty, inequality and lack of access to education and healthcare are just a few of the pressing issues that require our collective attention and actions.
“It is in this context that Senator Olajumoke’s legacy serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration. His commitment to serving others, guided by his faith and values, has made a lasting impact on countless lives.
who is the Ibe-Serimowei of ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri SouthWest Council area, said yesterday that close to four years after its passage, the non-implementation of the law is an indictment on the government in its inability to safeguard the lives of Deltans.
His words: “In 2021, the Delta State Government took a politically motivated and significant step towards addressing the long-standing conflict between herders and farmers by signing the Anti-Open Grazing and Prohibition Law.
“This legislation was designed to curb the rampant issues associated with open grazing, which has been a source of tension, violence, and
insecurity in many parts of Nigeria.
“However, as we approach the fourth anniversary of this law, it is evident that the Delta State Government has failed to implement it effectively, leaving citizens vulnerable to the very crises the law was intended to prevent.”
Mulade reiterated the importance of the law in not only curbing violence but enhancing agricultural productivity and economic stability.
“The context of the law is very clear: Open grazing has been a contentious issue in Nigeria, particularly in the Middle Belt and southern regions, where clashes between herders and farmers have led to loss of lives, destruction of property, and widespread insecurity.
“The Anti-Open Grazing Law was introduced as a proactive measure to regulate livestock movement, protect farmlands, and promote peaceful coexistence between herders and farmers.
“By prohibiting open grazing, the law aimed to reduce conflicts and enhance agricultural productivity, thereby fostering economic stability in the region,” he stressed.
The National Coordinator of the Center for Peace and Environmental Justice, (CEPEJ), warned of the consequences of the non-implementation of the anti-grazing law to include hunger, insecurity, violence, crimes, and the lack of public trust in the government among others.
NHREC Launches Electronic Platform to Strengthen Health Research
Chairman of the National Health Research Ethics Committee (NHREC), Prof. Richard Adegbola, has said the newly developed Electronic Protocol Submission Platform (NHREC E-portal), will strengthen health research and governance.
This is even as the minister of state for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako has said the NHREC E-portal is a secure, user-friendly digital interface designed to facilitate the submission, review, monitoring, and approval of
research protocols by the NHREC. Special adviser on Research and Innovation to the minister, Dr. Lolade Dosunmu Adeyemi, while quoting the minister, said the new innovation replaces the previous email-based system, aiming to improve the efficiency, transparency, and accountability of ethics review processes. He invited all stakeholders, including researchers, research institutions, ethics committee members, sponsors, and collaborators, to begin using the platform
from July 1, 2025. Meanwhile, Adegbola expressed appreciation to the Federal Ministry of Health, partners, and sponsors for their support in making the launch possible. According to him, “Support materials, user guides, and technical assistance will be readily available to ensure a smooth transition.” He further said this milestone follows the official unveiling of the platform on October 4, 2024, and subsequent refinement and pilot testing.
Linus Aleke in Abuja
in Warri
Hospital, Dr. Kayode Akinlade; son of Aare Afe Babalola and Head of Chambers, Emmanuel Chambers, Lagos, Mr. Tunde Babalola, SAN; Dr. Femi Oladimeji; and Iheanyichukwu Uwa, Esq, Emmanuel Chambers, Lagos, all representatives of ABUAD at the 11th Annual Nigerian Healthcare Excellence Awards
THREE-DAY EMPOWERMENT EVENT COMMEMORATING LAWMAKER’S TWO YEARS IN OFFICE...
Ondo AG Confirms Petition Seeking Coroner’s Inquest into Akeredolu’s Passing
Eighteen months after the death of a former Governor of Ondo State, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of the state, Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, has confirmed that the state has received petitions from concerned groups requesting the invocation of the Coroners Law of Ondo State in relation to the death
of the former governor.
Akeredolu died on December 26, 2023 after a protected illness and was thereafter laid to rest at his hometown in Owo, headquarters of Owo Local Government Area
of the state.
However, in a statement released by Dr. Ajulo, he affirmed that citizens have the right to request the invocation of the Coroners Law, designed to address public concerns
surrounding deaths considered unnatural or controversial.
Particularly, the AG emphasised that under the law, any citizen or group who reasonably suspected foul play or had lingering questions
Dele Momodu: Tinubu and Wike Are Maximum Rulers, Birds of Same Feathers
Says Ganduje tragic hero, took bullets for president, warns Akpabio must be circumspect
Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Sunday Ehigiator in Lagos
Publisher of Ovation International and Chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Aare Dele Momodu, has weighed in on the perceived leadership issues happening in the ruling All Progressive Party (APC), describing President Bola Tinubu and Governor Nyesom Wike as “maximum rulers” who are “birds of the same feathers.”
Momodu also described the immediate former Chairman of the APC, Abdullahi Ganduje, who recently resigned from his position, as a “tragic hero” who took bullets for Tinubu but has now outlived his usefulness.
He further warned his friend, Senator Godswill Akpabio, to be wary of Tinubu’s penchant for discarding those who have served their purpose.
In a scathing critique posted on his Instagram handle, Momodu alleged that Tinubu’s style of governance has remained unchanged since his days as Lagos State governor, where he held sway for 26 years.
He claimed that Vice President Kashim Shettima’s current fate was a testament to his assertion, drawing parallels with the experiences of former Deputy Governors in Lagos and aformer governor of the state, Akinwunmi Ambode.
Momodu wrote: “I knew this day would soon come when katakata go burst for the ruling party APC. Many of our political pundits do not have knowledge of contemporary history.
“How could anyone have thought Tinubu’s Style would ever change after capturing Lagos State, unchallenged, for 26 years? The fate that has befallen Vice President Shettima today is nothing new.
“It befell several Deputy Governors in Lagos. Governor Ambode was the biggest casualty. Governor Sanwo-Olu merely escaped by the whiskers recently.
“Those surprised at the ungodly alliance between Tinubu and
NASENI, Partners to Revitalise Nigeria’s Tech Sector’s Capacity to Boost Economy
Emmanuel Addeh and Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole in Abuja
The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has unveiled its strategic partnership with the Abuja Technology Village (ATV) to develop 300 hectares of land dedicated to factories, technology companies, and innovation-driven manufacturing plants to boost the national economy.
Speaking at a press briefing yesterday held at the office of Abuja Technology Village, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Halilu, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to come up with local and foreign partners to transform NASENI allotted sites at the Abuja Technology Village from a research-centric institution into a fully-fledged manufacturing agency.
“NASENI will work to attract investments and create job oppor-
tunities through this initiative. Our goal is to promote national brands and local production through the Abuja Technology Village. This is just the beginning; more factories will rise, and innovation will flourish within the 300 hectares. We are assuring that ATV will not be disappointed,” said the EVC.
“We will no longer keep our research on the shelf as prototypes. Today, we are making a clear commitment to turn renewable energy and other innovations into real, market-ready products. This partnership with ATV is a key step in that direction,” he added, according to a statement signed by the Director of Information, Olusegun Ayeoyenikan.
Halilu highlighted that last year alone, NASENI developed 35 market-viable products, and that the collaboration with ATV will help scale those innovations.
He emphasised the mutual benefits of the partnership, citing shared goals such as strategic
location, investment incentives, and a joint vision for technological advancement of Nigeria and the economy.
In his opening remarks, the Acting Managing Director, Abuja Technology Village Free Zone Company, Mr. Isa Shafeek, praised the collaboration, calling it timely and vital for Nigeria’s industrial development.
“This partnership is a perfect fit, especially when Nigeria urgently needs to build local production capacity. ATV is ready and committed to working with NASENI on various technology-driven projects,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, Dr. Dahiru Mohammed, Special Adviser on Foreign Partners & InterGovernmental Affairs to NASENI EVC, emphasised the importance of the initiative for Nigeria’s human capital development. He noted that establishing factories and attracting tech companies has been a top priority for new NASENI’s leadership.
Wike should have known the Yoruba aphorism ‘Iwa Jowa Ni Nje Ore Jore’ (Birds of the same feathers flock together). They are the maximum rulers. But sooner rather than later, things we never anticipated will happen.
“On Abdullahi Ganduje, he’s a tragic hero who took bullets for Tinubu. But like it happens to all lackeys, his usefulness has expired. My friend Akpabio should be aware. This current power is absolutely for Tinubu, and no one should fool themselves.
“No one is indispensable and everyone else is expendable, whenever it becomes necessary.
The Prince does not entertain competition. This is the season of Machiavelli. More victims will fall on the battlefield. No one is sacred.
“Ganduje is already being blamed for the woes of the APC.
One analyst even said he should have brought El-Rufai back after he was humiliated and rejected by the National Assembly. But Ganduje knew the real power that betrayed Nasiru and dared not meddle in the matter.
“Never mind, and don’t be too far from this page for regular analysis and gossip, and remember to grab your popcorn and Coke.”
about a person’s death had the legal right to demand a coroner’s inquest.
“It is not out of place for citizens to demand its invocation when there are legitimate concerns. The Attorney General is duty-bound to act in accordance with the law once such concerns are raised by members of the public,” Ajulo said.
While confirming the receipt of petitions relating to the demise of the late governor, Ajulo maintained that the law would be allowed to take its course without bias or sentiment.
He assured the people that the Ministry, under his leadership, was committed to transparency, the rule of law, and due process in handling such sensitive matters.
“We have received petitions from groups both within and outside the state, including professional bodies and even from the late Governor’s hometown. Let me be clear: due process will be followed. The law is there to serve the people and ensure that truth and justice prevail,” he said.
He said the petitioners urged him to initiate an inquest to investigate the circumstances surrounding the former governor’s death.
INEC Says It’s Working on Supplementary Regulations, Declaration Guidelines, Others
Worries over interpretations of Section 65
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), yesterday, said pursuant to its powers to issue regulations, guidelines and manuals to give effect to the provisions of the Electoral Act and its administration, it was working on a supplemental to the Regulations and Guidelines to provide clarity on the review of declaration and return at elections.
It, however, expressed concern over various interpretations given to the provision of Section 65 of the Electoral Act 2022 on the review of election results.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu stated this at the second quarterly consultative meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) in Abuja.
The chairman added that as soon as the Commission takes a decision, the supplementary Regulations and Guidelines would be uploaded to the INEC website and other
platforms for public information.
Yakubu stated: “As we approach the by-elections, the off-cycle governorship elections and ultimately the 2027 general election, the Commission is concerned with the various interpretations given to the provision of Section 65 of the Electoral Act 2022 on the review of election results.
“Pursuant to our powers to issue regulations, guidelines and manuals to give effect to the provisions of the Electoral Act and for its administration, the Commission is working on a supplement to the Regulations and Guidelines for the Conduct of Elections 2022 to provide clarity on the review of declaration and return at elections.
“As soon as the Commission takes a decision, perhaps as early as this week, the supplementary Regulations and Guidelines will be uploaded to our website and other platforms for public information.” Yakubu informed the RECs that
there were policy and procedural issues already determined by the Commission which they needed to implement without prompting from the Headquarters in Abuja. He noted that some of them were already doing so, but that they needed to intensify their effort. He added: “You do not need an elaborate conference or workshop to build the capacity of your staff to improve on their knowledge of new policies and practical innovations introduced by the Commission to improve electoral service delivery to Nigerians.
“You also need to provide us with information on your plans to enhance voter access to polling units by decongesting some of them or in other areas such as the cleaning-up of the voters’ register, deepening our engagement with electoral stakeholders at State and Local Government levels, the management of electoral logistics and election security.”
L-R: Onojie of Ewatto, HRH Osagie Ikhummhen; Hon. Prince Odianosen Henry Okojie; Onojie of Uromi, HRH Aslem Edenojie II, Ojuromi of Uromi Kingdom; Onojie of Orowa, HRH Cyril Aidenojie I; and the DPO, Olukeothuk, Uromi Police Divisional Headquarters, at the three-day empowerment event commemorating the lawmaker’s two years in office, held at Okpujie Primary School, Uromi, Edo State, on June 26, 2025
Managing Director, Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund(NSITF),
of a N11.178 million
Compensation
Youth Forum: Tinubu’s Fate in South-east Hinges on Youths, Not Political Office Holders
Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia
Contrary to the assurances by South-east political leaders in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) that the party would reap a huge harvest of votes in the zone in 2027, the expected roller-coaster victory may not eventually happen.
This is because a youth group in the South-east under the umbrella of All Igbo Youth Forum(AIYF), yesterday warned political leaders against making “bogus claims” concerning Igbo votes,
saying that youths hold the trump cards and not political office holders.
South-east APC has been benefitting from the massive defections of political heavy weights from opposition parties, especially the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), thereby emboldening the APC leaders in their claim that South-east is a low hanging fruit for the ruling party.
But at a press conference in Umuahia, President General of the AIYF, Hon Chinedum Obilor (popularly known as Fayose Ohuhu), insisted
Stakeholders Urged to Embrace Research as Catalyst for National Development
Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo
Stakeholders in every sector in Nigeria have been tasked to always play their roles in executing research for national development.
that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and APC would not get wholesale support in the 2027 general election in Southeast. He said that direction of
casting Igbo votes that majorly come from youth population would depend on either the release or continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of
Biafra (IPOB). Obilor, who is a former Deputy Chairman of Umuahia North Local Government Area, stated that the AIYF with membership across the
five states of Southeast and Igbo speaking areas of South South, has put forward Kanu’s freedom as condition for supporting Tinubu’s second term bid.
Ekiti Gov Assures Investors of Business-friendly Environment
Former councilors demand justice, payment of entitlements
Gbenga SodeindeinAdoEkiti
Ekiti state governor, Biodun Oyebanji has reassured investors and business owners that his administration would not relent in improving the business environment in order to attract investment to the State.
This is just as elected councilors who served in Ekiti State from 2022 to 2024 under both the former
governor Kayode Fayemi and the current Oyebanji’s administrations have called on the incumbent governor to pay all outstanding entitlements.
In a statement made available to THISDAY in Ado Ekiti yesterday, the councilors expressed sadness over what they described as unfair treatment melted out to them by the Governor Oyebanji’s-led
government for not fulfilling its obligations to former councillors who served during a critical period of governance in the state.
They said: “We, the former elected councillors who served diligently across Ekiti State from 2022 to 2024 under both the Kayode Fayemi and Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) administrations, wish to bring to public attention the unjust treatment and neglect we have suffered under the current BAO-led government.” “Despite our legal and moral entitlements, the BAO administration has selectively paid only councillors who served under Governor Fayose, completely abandoning those of us who gave our time, commitment, and resources in service to the state and the All Progressives Congress (APC).”
Again, Bandits Strike, Kidnap 32 in Niger, Kwara Communities
Laleye Dipo in
and
Barely one week after gunmen attacked communities in Mariga local government of Niger state some bandits have again raided three communities in the same local government. The bandits said to have been
It would be recalled that the university hosted a Research Fair aimed at showcasing the institution’s burgeoning research culture and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.
THISDAY learnt that the research fair is an opportunity for the Redeemer’s University to demonstrate its academic depth, innovation culture, and societal impact.
Speaking at the weekend on the 2025 Research Fair, which was part of Redeemer’s University’s 20th-anniversary celebrations, the guest speaker Hon. Adewumi Adeyemi, representing Obokun state constituency in Osun State, who reiterated the importance of research, urged stakeholders in every sector in Nigeria to play their role in executing research to serve as catalyst for all rounds development. While commending the management and founder of the institution, Adewumi also urged Redeemer’s University to expand its horizons in research for academic excellence and societal advancement.
Kogi Ranks Lowest in Domestic Debt among the 36 Sates
The strategic economic and fiscal reforms embarked upon by the Kogi State Government have begun to yield fruitful results as the state now ranked the fifth lowest domestic debt among the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
This was contained in statistics released by the Debt Management Office (DMO) on March 31, 2025.
The report shows that Kogi State domestic debt stands at N20.38 billion, marking a significant drop from the N121.81 billion recorded in Q4 of 2023, when the state ranked 18th lowest in the country.
This reflects a remarkable debt
reduction of over N101.43 billion in just over one fiscal quarter.
While speaking on the achievement, the state Commissioner for Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Asiwaju Asiru Idris, attributed the success to the state aggressive implementation of global best practices in financial management, including prudent borrowing, enhanced revenue performance, and strategic expenditure control.
“We are deliberate in our financial approach, cutting waste and focusing on impactful spending. This improvement is not accidental; it is the result of Governor Usman Ododo’s transparent, accountable and reform-minded leadership,” he said.
riding three on each motorcycle numbering well over three hundred and armed with AK 47 rifles struck on Monday night wrecking havoc and sacking the villagers in Gulbinboka, Kakihun and Kumbashi.
Similarly, panic has again gripped residents of Babanla community in Ifelodun Local
Government Area of the Kwara state as suspected bandits abduct two teenage girls while the monarch’s wife of the town nearly escaped abduction on Monday night.
Eyewitnesses told THISDAY that the bandits in Niger kidnapped no fewer than 30 of the villagers and killed unknown number.
In addition, according to the report, a secondary school was burnt at Kakihun while a security operation vehicle was also set ablaze at Kumbashi. According to the findings, the attack has now led to people migrating from the affected communities to Kontagora.
FG Tasks Monarchs to Join Fight against Gender Based Violence
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
The federal government has called on traditional rulers across the nation to speak up against gender based violence, insisting that the fight against the scourge cannot be left for government and its agencies alone.
Speaking in Abuja yesterday at a knowledge-enhancing session for traditional rulers on gender based violence organised by the United Nations Women, the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, told the monarchs that “as people who carry great
influence in our families and communities. You are the heartbeat of your people. And when you speak, your people listen. That is why we have gathered here to talk about a matter that urgently requires your voice, your action, and your leadership- Gender Based Violence (GBV) We cannot do this work without you.” “Justice does not begin in court; it begins in the community. If cases are hidden, there can be no prosecution. If victims are shamed, there can be no truth. If wrongdoers are protected because they are rich and influential, there can be no justice.”
Otu Receives New Navigational Charts for Bakassi Deep Seaport
Bassey Inyang in Calabar
The Cross River State Government has announced that it has recorded a major breakthrough in its quest to transform the state into a maritime hub with the official presentation of the hydrographic, geotechnical, geophysical report
and new navigational chart for the proposed Bakassi Deep Seaport project.
Speaking at a formal ceremony held in the State Executive Council Chamber yesterday in Calabar, the state governor, Senator Bassey Otu, described the event as a “historic milestone” that not only affirms
Nigeria’s maritime boundaries, but also sets the stage for an economic revolution across the Gulf of Guinea.
Otu said: “This is truly a historic day, not just for Cross River State but for the entire country. What we have achieved today replaces charts dating back to 1903 and settles longstanding debates about Cross River’s status as a littoral state. This chart clearly affirms our coastal status.”
Otu emphasised that the updated maritime chart now aligns with S-100 International Standards, positioning the state for deepwater commerce, and international shipping operations.
Niger Delta Celebrates Chief Wellington Okirika on His Birthday
Prominent Niger Delta leader and political icon, Chief (Dr.) Wellington Okirika, is being celebrated across the region on the occasion of his birthday as admirers and community leaders reflect on his enduring contributions to justice, equity, and the development of the Niger Delta.
Okirika is the Bolowei of Gbaramatu Kingdom.
For instance, in his tribute, Ambassador Dr. Samantha Simeon described Chief Okirika as “a remarkable leader whose life story, as captured in his autobiography, continues to inspire generations
with its message of resilience, vision, and public service.”
Chief Okirika’s autobiography, widely regarded as a powerful chronicle of his personal journey and political struggles, has resonated with many across the region. It details the challenges he has overcome, his unwavering
advocacy for the Niger Delta people, and his vision for a more just and prosperous society. Simeon said: “Chief Okirika has been a guiding light for many. His leadership transcends politics; it reflects a deep commitment to justice, equity, and unity within our diverse communities.”
Minna
Hammed Shittu in Ilorin
Mr. Oluwaseun Faleye (fourth right); Managing Director, Unity Bank Plc, Mr. Ebenezer Kolawole(fifth left) and other executives of the bank, during the presentation
Employees’
Scheme death-benefit cheque by NSITF in Lagos… yesterday
Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja
Osayi-Samuel: 2026 World Cup Ticket Not Beyond Super Eagles Yet
Duro Ikhazuagbe
Nigeria defender, Bright OsayiSamuel, believes that it is not over yet for the Super Eagles to still
qualify for the 2026 World Cup despite trailing group leaders South Africa by six points.
Speaking yesterday in Benin City, the former Fenerbahce defender said
Angulo Seite Wins Yucateco Boxing League, Recieves N50m Prize Money
Angulo Seite Boxing Club has emerged champions of the Yucateco Boxing League Season 2. The campaign which climaxed in Ogun State on Monday attracted hundreds of boxing fans and stakeholders, with top boxers and the best overall team carting home prize monies after what has been described as the most competitive edition of the Olympic-styled boxing showdown.
The dramatic grand finale held in Shagamu, culminated with the big pay day for the young pugilists.
The champions’ night gave raise to financial gains in the squared ropes sports as boxers who finished tops in various weight classes received N2 million each.
The first and second runners up in the 13 weight classes received One million Naira and Five hundred thousand Naira respectively. It was a defining moment for
boxers in the colors of Angulo Seite Boxing Club, after they edged Ogbas Families BC in a straight fight for the crown. The champions edged their rivals on record number of fights executed despite both teams tied on points after the penultimate contest in Ijebu-Igbo.
The champions were rewarded with the sum of N50 million as a team; the best individual honour - the most valuable boxer went to Samuel Dahunsi of Ogbas Families BC who received a land valued at N20 million in Ikorodu area of Lagos State.
The highly successful second season of the first ever Olympicstyled boxing league in Africa had over 300 boxers, representing the 12 accredited boxing clubs, and over 520 bouts were decided in the tournament which started in August 2024.
Chief Executive Officer of Yucateco Boxing Promotions, Hon Omolei Imadu (right) presenting the N50million dummy cheque winner of the boxing league Angulo Seite Boxing Club at the grand finale which held in Sagamu at the weekend
Nigeria can still pick the group’s sole ticket if the three -time African champios win all their remaining games. South Africa have a case in FIFA
over the fielding of an ineligible player against Lesotho and risk losing three points and three goals. Should that happens, the gap at the top will narrow to just three
points.
According to Osayi-Samuel, the road to the ticket is rough but it is not beyond Super Eagles reach. “In terms of Super Eagles quali-
fiers, I believe we will qualify for the Word Cup. The aim is just to win every single game.
“Of course, it will be difficult, but for us and the team, I think we have a good chance,” observed the Edo-born defender whose switch from Fenerbahce to Besiktas was reported to have collapsed at the weekend.
He described the team’s Franco-
Mali coach Eric Chelle as a fantastic gaffer who is very capable and qualified to lead Nigeria to the World Cup.
Osayi-Samuel was particularly impressed by the game plan adopted by Chelle in curtailing Russia during the last FIFA window.
“For me, the coach (Chelle) is fantastic. The way he wants us to press and run; I think everyone in the team has aligned with his ideas.
“In our last game against Russia, we gained upper hand against a team that hadn’t lost in six or seven matches. If we keep working together, we have a good chance,” the defender said.
The three-time African champions, Super Eagles, currently find themselves in a precarious position in their qualifying group, sitting in fourth place and trailing leaders South Africa by six points. With only four matches left to play, the pressure is mounting for the Eagles to deliver a stellar performance to enhance their chances of qualification for the World Cup to be jointly hosted by USA, Canada and Mexico.
NIS DG, Philip Shaibu, Vows to Reform Foremost Sports Institute
Director General of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, has pledged sweeping reforms at the institute, citing personal experiences that exposed deep-rooted flaws in Nigeria’s
Imaobong Uko is 10th Nigerian Athlete Serving Ban for Dope
The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) has officially announced the ban of one of Nigeria’s quarter milers, Imaobong Nse Uko, 20, for two years for dope violation.
In the updated list of athletes sanctioned for dope related offences published on July 1, 2025, Uko’s ban was retroactively effected from June 5, 2024, the date of her infraction. She is the 10th Nigerian athlete on that list of athletes banned for dope.
Although the AIU failed to list the exact offence for which Uko is being punished for, she was provisionally suspended from the track from July 7, 2024 with all the results of the races
she clocked from that date all now annulled.
She will not be eligible to return to the track until July 23, 2026. Uko at just 17, shot into limelight when she won the 400m gold at the U20 World Athletics Championships in Nairobi, Kenya with a PB of 51.55secs.
The following year, she went on to win the National Sports Festival 400m gold. medal. She defended the quarter-mile gold at the 2021 NSF and followed up qualifying to run in Nigeria’s 4x400m relay at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo in 2021.
Uko is one of Nigeria’s brightest hope to step into the shoes vacated by the likes of Falilat Ogunkoya and Fatima Yusuf.
In that updated list of athletes serving suspensions for various infractions, Imaobong Uko is the 10th Nigerian athlete so banned.
Former shot put record holder, Vivian Chukwuemeka and Henry Azike top the list with life bans followed by Blessing Okagbare who is serving 10 years suspension. Glory Okon, Stephen Eloji, Ada Princes Bright and Yinka Ajaiyi are all serving four years each for similar dope infractions.
Kenyan and Indian athletes however dominated the list of athletes serving dope violations with several years ban from track and field.
No official of the AFN could be reached last night to speak on this Imaobong Nse Uko dope violation.
Dolphin Swimming League Award Set for July 5
Schools and students who distinguished themselves in season five of the annual Dolphin Swimming League will be rewarded for their efforts at the award ceremony scheduled for Saturday, July 5, at St. Saviour’s School, Ikoyi. This foremost private interschool swimming tournament has continued to identify talents that have worked their way to the national limelight, with more schools participating.
According to the organisers, the two-hour award ceremony will witness several laurels being doled out to outstanding schools and students who graced season five, with the aim of inspiring others to aim high in subsequent events. All participating schools are expected to be present at the award ceremony, which kicks off at 10 a.m., as the main sponsor, Rite Foods, will also be part of the colourful event in Lagos.
More than 10 schools featured in season five of the championships, with several records set by the young swimmers this year, as plans are on to stage an improved edition in season six. Meanwhile, the organisers have hailed some the swimmers that featured at the 22nd National Sports Festival tagged Gateway Games 2024, describing it as a good platform for the athletes to showcase their skills nationally.
sports development system.
In an interview with M4Stv, the former Edo State Deputy Governor revealed that he had encountered two negative experiences with the NIS—one of which involved the disqualification of Edo Queens’ coach from sitting on the bench during the CAF Women’s Champions League in Morocco.
“I was one of those Nigerians who felt nothing was happening at the NIS,” Shaibu said. “One of the negative experiences was when Edo Queens qualified for the CAF Champions League in 2024 and I saw our coach, Moses Aduku, sitting in the stands. I asked why, and he told me he wasn’t allowed on the bench because his NIS certificate wasn’t recognized.”
According to CAF regulations, coaches must meet specific licensing
requirements to sit on the bench during interclub competitions such as the CAF Champions League or Confederation Cup. Head coaches are required to hold a CAF ‘A’ License or a valid PRO License from a sister confederation (e.g., UEFA, AFC), while assistant coaches must possess a CAF ‘B’ License.
Shaibu described the incident as a wake-up call and a symbol of the broader credibility crisis facing the institute. He likened the NIS to the engine room of Nigeria’s sports ecosystem—one that must be properly serviced to perform at an optimal level.
“It’s like a car without an engine. The engine is the NIS. We cannot keep going into international competitions like the African Games, Commonwealth Games, and the Olympics and
return empty-handed,” he said. He emphasized that the NIS must fulfill its statutory role of producing world-class coaches with globally recognized certifications. “We need to align with international federations and adopt their coaching methodologies so that our graduates can qualify for the highest-level certifications,” he added.
Shaibu also expressed optimism about the future of the institute, highlighting the importance of collaboration and planning. “My passion is to make things work, and by the grace of God, the private sector and government having a handshake as far as funding and support is concerned, the NIS will be back to its actual challenges of fixing Nigerian sports at the management cadre,” he said.
PRESIDENTIAL WELCOME ....
Siji Otenigbagbe
of Portugal. With him here is the Captain of Dumiense
Bright Osayi-Samuel...believes that the 2026 World Cup ticket not beyond the Super Eagles yet
L-R:
(left) recently took over the mantle of leadership as President of Dumiense
Duro Ikhazuagbe
COALITION ON THEIR MINDS...
ONYIBE
GUEST COLUMNIST
First-Class Politicians Playing Second-Hand Politics
The African Democratic Alliance (ADA), the name of the new political party currently seeking registration with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)—Nigeria’s electoral umpire—is a platform being floated by a group of top-tier politicians who are presently aggrieved. Their dissatisfaction stems from no longer occupying front-row seats in Nigeria’s political leadership or enjoying unfettered access to the Aso Rock Villa, the seat of presidential power. According to media reports, the prominent figures behind this new political vehicle include:
1. Former Vice President of Nigeria (1999–2007) and presidential candidate of the former ruling party, Waziri Adamawa, Atiku Abubakar
2. Former President of the 8th Senate and ex-Governor of Kwara State, Bukola Saraki
3. President of the 6th Senate and military governor of Niger State during the Gen. Ibrahim Babangida regime, David Mark
4. Former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and immediate past Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai
5. Former Governor of Rivers State and immediate past Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi
6. Former Governor of Anambra State, 2019 PDP vice-presidential candidate, and 2023 Labour Party, LP presidential flag bearer, Mr. Peter Obi
7. Babachir Lawal, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation under President Muhammadu Buhari
The list is by no means exhaustive. Others, such as former President Goodluck Jonathan, appear to be operating behind the scenes. Nonetheless, it is not an exaggeration to describe these eight figures as first-class politicians.
When l heard in the broadcast media and read in the press the list of the political actors aiming to displace President Tinubu in 2027, what resonated in my mind is the hit song by the American singer, Tina Turner: What’s Love But a Second-hand Emotion?
It is being in sync with Tina Turner’s assessment of love, that l dare to classify the promoters of the proposed political platform, ADA as brand new second-hand politicians angling to replace President Tinubu in Aso Rock villa in 2027. For instance, how can El-Rufai, an ardent proponent of Muslim- Muslim presidential ticket be working with Babachir Lawal who is a die-hard opponent of El-Rufai’s ideology and promoter of Christian -Muslim or vice versa presidency to set up together a new political platform? Notably, it was Babachir who parted ways with Tinubu when
he settled for a Muslim- Muslim ticket.
But the balanced manner in which President Tinubu has so far managed the often magnified differences between muslims and Christians in Nigeria that has revealed how absurd politics can be in Nigeria and a validation of the fact that it is the elite that play up tribal and religious sentiments by emphasizing or exploiting religious differences in Nigeria to the detriment of the unity, harmony and inclusiveness in our country that should drive the greater good and prosperity of all Nigerians.
Over the 26 years since Nigeria’s return to multi-party democracy, these individuals that l would like to refer to as first-class politicians playing second-hand politics earlier listed have occupied commanding positions within the political landscape. Their experiences span the executive arm—from vice presidents, ministers, and secretaries to the federal government, down to state governors. In the legislative arm, the group also includes two of the most consequential Senate presidents since 1999.
One of the most vocal actors seeking to torpedo President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027 is Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, the immediate past Governor of Kaduna State and former Minister of the FCT. Until recently, he was a key figure within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). However, following the Senate’s rejection of his ministerial nomination by President Tinubu, El-Rufai defected to the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
Expressing his frustration during a recent television appearance, El-Rufai publicly apologized to Nigerians for supporting Tinubu’s rise to the presidency. He also declared that Tinubu would not secure northern votes in 2027:
“We have polled it. There is a 91 percent disapproval of this administration across the country. 91 percent disapproval is the worst in Nigeria’s history.”
His comments stand in stark contrast to those of his successor, Governor Uba Sani, and other notable political figures in the north who have dismissed El-Rufai’s assertions and the emerging anti-Tinubu coalition as “hogwash” and lacking substance.
Regardless, El-Rufai’s ‘apology’ echoes that of former military head of state and ex-president Olusegun Obasanjo, who similarly recanted his support for former Vice President Goodluck Jonathan after he succeeded the late Umaru Musa Yar’Adua as president in 2010. As may be recalled, Obasanjo also ‘apologized’ to Nigerians for backing Jonathan’s presidency.
Discomfited and disillusioned, former ally of President Bola Tinubu, Nasir El-Rufai, concluded his scathing commentary on Tinubu’s administration—an administration he helped midwife—with the following declaration:
“Let me contribute towards removing this evil that I believe will destroy Nigeria if left unchecked.”
In playing a familiar political script, El-Rufai appears to be walking the path previously trodden by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, whose political about-face has become a hallmark of Nigeria’s democracy. What this reveals is a pattern: first-class politicians engaging in second-hand politics.
A prime example is Obasanjo’s turn against Goodluck Jonathan, a man he had backed for president after the death of President Umaru Yar’Adua in 2010. Fueled by resentment, Obasanjo aligned with his former military colleague and fellow Head of State, General Muhammadu Buhari, to ensure Jonathan’s defeat in the 2015 elections. He joined the “Never Jonathan” movement—dominated by northern political actors who believed that Jonathan had usurped their rightful turn under Nigeria’s informal rotation agreement, a gentlemen’s pact respected by political elites.
Jonathan’s failure to step aside after completing Yar’Adua’s term triggered a backlash. His perceived breach of the zoning formula—though unwritten—galvanized opposition. Obasanjo’s dramatic withdrawal of support from Jonathan, including the infamous public tearing of his PDP membership card, sealed the latter’s fate.
El-Rufai’s recent resignation from the APC—though
not as theatrical—mirrors Obasanjo’s defection in both symbolism and intent. El-Rufai simply exited rather loudly and joined the lesser-known Social Democratic Party (SDP).
Adding to the narrative of recycled political strategy is Obasanjo’s eventual fallout with Buhari, whom he had also helped bring to power. When Buhari’s administration failed to serve his perceived interests, Obasanjo began funding an alternative political movement—a “third force”—made up of former aides and political allies. But it suffered a stillbirth.
Yet, despite these maneuvers, Buhari won re-election in 2019. This outcome underscores a critical truth: poor economic performance or widespread hardship does not necessarily translate to electoral defeat—especially in Africa. Even in advanced democracies, it is rarely inflation or economic stagnation alone that unseats incumbents. Instead, it is the mishandling of major crises—natural or man-made—that spells doom. Donald Trump, for instance, lost the 2020 U.S. election largely due to the allegations that he mishandled the COVID-19 pandemic. Similarly, Jimmy Carter’s failure to navigate the Iran hostage crisis cost him re-election to Ronald Reagan in 1980. Before them, the Watergate scandal forced Richard Nixon to resign, forever altering the landscape of American politics.
Returning to Nigeria, Jonathan’s loss in 2015 was less about governance failure and more about a political agreement dishonored. The north believed it still had six years left in the rotational presidency arrangement after Yar’Adua’s death. Jonathan’s decision to contest in 2011 and again in 2015 violated that understanding.
This breach opened the door for Tinubu, then in the opposition, to build a formidable coalition—uniting five political parties into the APC, which eventually defeated the PDP. Fast forward to 2025, and a similar coalition appears to be forming under the African Democratic Alliance (ADA) to stop Tinubu in 2027. Thus, it is fair to describe this latest political effort as “second-hand politics by first-class politicians.”
But would the ADA politicians have potency of antijonathan movement since, denying Tinubu a second term would be an affront to southern politicians who would be aggrieved if a southerner is denied a second term in the manner that northerners felt disappointed that Jonathan stole their mandate when he allegedly usurped Yaradua’s and northern tenure in 2011 and attempted to consolidate it in 2015?
Atiku Abubakar
L-R: Former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Chairman, Prince Uche Secondus; former PDP National Woman Leader and Minister for Women Affairs, Hajia Inna Chiroma; a former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chief Tom Ikimi; former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Senate President, David Mark; former Governor of Jigawa State, Sule Lamido, a former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Aminu Wali and others reading the communique after their meeting at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja... yesterday
