WEDNESDAY 7TH MAY 2025

NUPRC Pledges Support as ExxonMobil Commits to $1.5bn Deepwater Investment Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja ExxonMobil has affirmed its long-term commitment to Nigeria’s

oil and gas sector with a planned investment of 1.5 billion dollars in deepwater exploration and development, putting to rest the

company’s rumoured planned exit from the country.

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC)

which posted the information on its social media handles last night, said the significant financial commitment, which will be implemented

between Q2, 2025 and 2027 focuses on revitalising production in the Usan deepwater oil field.

This announcement, it said, was

made during a visit by ExxonMobil’s Managing Director in Nigeria, Mr. Continued on page 9

After Disastrous Local Polls, Tory MPs Meet to Discuss Ousting Kemi Badenoch... Page 6 Wednesday 7 May, 2025 Vol 30. No 10986. Price: N400

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MAN, NECA, Ndume Hail FG’s Nigeria First Policy Predict it will boost GDP by 56%, reduce unemployment by 37% Atiku to Tinubu: Trade your escalade for Innoson to prove policy

Chuks Okocha, Sunday Aborisade in Abuja, Dike Onwuamaeze in Lagos and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) and the Senator representing Borno South, Ali Ndume, yesterday,

commended the federal government for the Nigeria First policy on public procurement that prioritises patronage of Made-in-Nigeria goods and services.

However, former Vice President and the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the last general election, Atiku Abubakar, yesterday challenged President Bola

Tinubu to put the policy to practice by trading his official vehicle, an Escalade, for a local brand such as Innoson or other local brands.

He also dared Tinubu to choose

local hospitals for his medicals over foreign medical institutions.

This was as the Petroleum Continued on page 9

With $75 Budget Benchmark, Concerns Mount as Oil Price Hovers Around $60 Goldman Sachs, Barclays, Morgan Stanley slash forecast NACCIMA, CPPE advise FG to review budget projections Analysts: Lower oil price puts economy at risk, creates appetite for borrowing NLC predicts more hardship for Nigerians

Emmanuel Addeh, Onyebuchi Ezigbo, James Emejo in Abuja and Dike Onwuamaeze in Lagos Oil prices continued to float around $60 per barrel yesterday, spurred by an earlier decision by the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries

(OPEC) and its allies to further speed up output hikes in June.

Precisely, Brent crude futures, Nigeria’s oil benchmark, recovered slightly yesterday to $62.03 per barrel, a day after it dropped to an intraday Continued on page 9

YOU ARE WELCOME TO THE APC...

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (left) receiving Delta State Governor, Mr. Sheriff Oborevwori, who recently defected to the All Progressives Congress, PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI. during an audience with the President at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday

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THISDAY • WEDNESDAY, MAY 7, 2025

Group News Editor: Goddy Egene Email: Goddy.egene@thisdaylive.com, 0803 350 6821, 0807 401 0580

NEWS

SOLAR TURBINES TEAM VISITS LEEMON IKPEA IN HOUSTON...

L-R: Area Sales Manager, New Equipment Sales, Solar Turbines, Mr. Lanre Oladipupo; Regional Sales Manager, Southern Europe/Africa, Solar Turbines, Mr. Mohamed Boubnan; Founder and Executive Chairman, Lee Engineering Group and Allied Companies, Dr. Leemon Ikpea FNSE, CON; Nigeria’s Minister of state for Gas Resources, Mr. Ekperikpe Ekpo; and Vice President, Customer Services, Solar Turbines, Mr. Manoj Dutt, during a courtesy visit to Chief Ikpea’s office in Houston, Texas, United States of America, yesterday

NLNG May Raise Gas Supply by 12% after Deal with Seplat Renaissance halts oil output through pipeline after oil spill

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja The Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG), Africa’s biggest liquefied natural gas plant may be able to raise supply by as much as 12 per cent after striking a deal with Seplat Energy, which recently acquired Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited (MPNU).

The gas plant’s operations have been hobbled by fuel theft, but is set to see gas supplies jump once the agreement with Seplat Energy goes into effect, an executive of the indigenous oil company told Bloomberg News.

Under the terms of a preliminary agreement, Seplat will send more than 150,000 tons of gas a month to the NLNG plant, the Managing Director, ANOH Gas Processing Company (AGPC), Effiong Okon, said. That is more than 12 per cent higher than last year’s monthly average.

Such an increase, the report said, would be a major boost to the plant, which has seen its gas supplies plummet as gangs of thieves tap the pipelines that feed the site. It’ll be just the second time that NLNG — a joint venture between Nigeria, Shell Plc, TotalEnergies SE and Eni SpA — has received gas from a third party.

Both sides are now working out the technical and commercial details of the deal, according to Okon, who expects gas to start flowing to the plant in the third quarter.

Seplat has seen gas production rise by 50 per cent after acquiring assets from the Nigerian unit of Exxon Mobil Corporation. The NLNG accord would bring much-needed revenue to its $700 million ANOH gas plant, which has been idle since completion following delays to a key east-west pipeline due to take its output, Bloomberg added.

The deal “represents a strategic convergence of need and opportunity,” an analyst at the African Energy Council (AEC), Katlong Alex, remarked. It “enables Seplat to overcome infrastructure limitations, while helping NLNG tackle its persistent gas supply issues,” he added.

The agreement will be “short term,” pending completion of the pipeline, Okon said. NLNG didn’t respond to a request for comment

by Bloomberg.

Meanwhile, Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited has halted oil shipments via its Okordia-Rumuekpe pipeline in the coastal Rivers state following a spill, the independent

oil firm said yesterday.

The pipeline, which transports crude oil south to the Rumuekpe manifold for export via the Bonny terminal, experienced the spill in the early hours of Monday in Ikata community in the Ahoada East district of the state, according to the Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre

Vice President Kashim Shettima has stated that African economies will thrive when the continent is able to lawfully share secured data.

He sated this in Abuja, Tuesday at the opening ceremony of the Network of African Data Protection Authorities (NADPA), with the theme, “Balancing Innovation in Africa: Data Protection and Privacy in Emerging Technologies” and the official launch of the Nigerian Virtual Privacy Academy (NVPA).

Represented by the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Sen. Ibrahim Hadejia, the vice president noted that the African economy will thrive when Africa can lawfully share secured data.

“We recognise that data is not merely a digital resource.It is a human story told in numbers. It is the fabric of trust in our economies.

It is the currency of reliability in our institutions.

And as the African continental Future “Agreement expands the scale of its African exchange, our ability to share data securely and lawfully will define our capacity to thrive,” he said.

On the importance of the conference, he stated that such fora were not only welcome but essential, adding that they offer the chance to crosspollinate ideas, to nurture human capital, and to strengthen mechanisms for mutual legal assistance.

He also spoke on the legal framework of NDPC, noting that “Nigeria’s legal framework for data protection is globally recognised as one of the most progressive.

According to the VP, “through it, we reassigned our alignment to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. More

spokesperson said in a statement, reported by Reuters.

While Renaissance did not disclose the cause or scale of the spill, YEAC-Nigeria said it was likely due to third-party interference, with crude oil spreading into the surrounding environment, the report added.

Renaissance has notified govern-

ment regulators and is coordinating a joint investigation with regulatory bodies and the local community.

Persistent oil spills and pipeline vandalism plague Nigeria’s oil-rich Niger River delta, causing pollution that harms local communities and ecosystems, and frequently disrupting oil production.

$400m Steel Factory Set to Commence Operation in Ogun The President of Inner Galaxy Group, Mr. Li Shuang, yesterday, disclosed that his company was ready to set up a $400 million hot rolled coiled steel factory with the capacity to employ about 6,500 direct and indirect workers in Ewekoro Local Government Area of Ogun state.

Shuang, made this known while leading a delegation of principal officials of the organisation at the Governor’s office located at OkeMosan, Abeokuta.

He added that the company was

Shettima: Lawful Sharing of Secured Data Will Make Africa’s Economy Thrive Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole in Abuja

(YEAC-Nigeria). The environmental group’s volunteer network initially detected the spill.

Renaissance, owner of a former Shell onshore subsidiary which operates the pipeline, has halted production into the pipeline and taken measures to minimize potential environmental damage, a

importantly, our data protection ecosystem is now directly tied to the debris of the eight presidential priorities of this administration.”

In his addresses, the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani said “Nigeria is fully committed to a future where technological progress is both inclusive and a right perspective.” “ As we digitise government services, open up digital trade corridors, and advance the need for digital identity on the platform, we must ensure that our value chains are secure, fair, and transparent.

“This is not just about the platform, but it is about trust. And without trust, the digital economy cannot scale,” he said.

While launching the NVPA, the minister said, “This end permits me to again spotlight another of our strategic steps forward, the Data Protection Virtual Academy.

expected to commence operations in April 2026, saying the organisation, a multinational company with vast investments in Asia, the Philippines, Malaysia, and some African countries like Ghana and Angola, entered the Nigerian market in 2005, producing iron rods for the building industry.

Governor Dapo Abiodun, in his remarks expressed delight in the huge investment, as he ascribed the success to his administration’s deliberate and intentional move to make the State the leading industrial hub in Nigeria and the West Africa sub-region.

“This is a $400 million investment; this aligns with the President’s vision to ensure that we grow this economy to a $1 trillion and I think that you

will be contributing your quota in achieving that. We are excited that you will also be employing people.

“I will be commissioning a multimillion-dollar diagnostic equipment facility during the week.

This administration has managed to attract quite a lot of industries in the last six years”, Abiodun said.

The Governor noted that the State was blessed with abundant human and natural resources, adding that alluvial gold had been discovered in large quantities, just as the state has the highest quality of lithium.

“I think it may interest you to know that we also have lithium in Ogun State; the lithium in Ogun State is meant to be the highest quality in Nigeria. So, it may be something

you might want to also discuss.

“We are number one in non-oil revenue in Nigeria because twothirds of the state sits on limestone.

We have a lot of limestone here; we are actually number one in cement production in Sub-Saharan Africa, and we are number three in the entire Africa,” the governor explained further.

Abiodun explained that his administration had put in place an integrated ecosystem of infrastructure to support investments coming into the state, emphasising that required infrastructures like roads, rail, air, affordable housing accommodations, medical infrastructure, and schools have been made available in the State.

Aircraft Leasing: Aviation Minister’s Facilitation Delegation Visits Embraer, Brazil

Presidential directive targets Nigeria air link with South America

Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

In furtherance to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to establish a direct air route between Nigeria and South America, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has arrived in Brazil on a strategic working visit.

Keyamo touched down in Brazil accompanied by the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo, and representatives of local Nigerian airline operators.

At the heart of the visit is a high-level engagement with global aircraft manufacturer and lessor, Embraer, at its headquarters in São José dos Campos, São Paulo State.

Embraer, a renowned leader in regional aircraft production, is collaborating with the Nigerian delegation to explore avenues for strengthening Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem through enhanced access to modern aircraft, favourable leasing options, and a network of credible financiers.

Keyamo, in a statement Tuesday by his Special Adviser, Media &

Communications, Tunde Moshood, said: “We had extensive discussions with Embraer on how they can support our aviation sector with their vast network of lessors and financial institutions.

“The goal is to empower Nigerian operators with the tools and partnerships necessary for growth and expansion.”

The statement further read that the working visit continues today in Brasilia, where the Minister is scheduled to meet with his Brazilian counterpart, the Minister of Ports and Airports, Sílvio Costa Filho.

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NEWS

INAUGURATION OF MOTHER AND CHILD HOSPITAL...

First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, represented by Hajiya Nana Shettima, wife of the Vice President (centre); Governor Hope Uzodimma, CON (3rd right); His wife, Barr. (Mrs.) Chioma Uzodimma (3rd left); Wife of the Speaker, House of Representatives, Hajiya Fatima Tajudeen Abbas (2nd left); and Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire (2nd right), during the commissioning of the Mother and Child Hospital at Awo-Omamma General Hospital, Oru-East LGA, in Imo State

After Disastrous Local Polls, Tory MPs Meet to Discuss Ousting Kemi Badenoch

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Members of Parliament (MP) of the UK’s Conservative Party will hold meetings this week to discuss how to remove their leader, Kemi Badenoch, as panic grows over the future of the party following Reform’s success in the local elections.

Two senior backbenchers confirmed to The Independent that they are

calling meetings with fellow parliamentarians to discuss ousting the Conservative Party leader.

“We cannot continue as we are and she (Ms Badenoch) is just not up to the task,” one of the MPs said.

The moves come after the Tories lost 15 councils and 674 seats last week in devastating results which put the future of the party at risk. At the same time, Nigel Farage declared his

party has now taken the place of the Conservatives as the main opposition to Labour as it won 676 seats and overall control of 10 councils.

One Conservative MP said: “These results were actually worse than last year’s general election. We have somehow gone backwards.”

Kemi Badenoch’s Conservatives suffered a heavy defeat last Thursday, losing hundreds of councillors and

control of 15 councils It is understood that a number of Tories have also contacted Robert Jenrick to stand again for the leadership just six months after he failed in his first attempt. While some of those plotting were his supporters it is being claimed that the discussions on Ms Badenoch’s future “go beyond the usual suspects”.

There are claims that former foreign

Senate Begins Tax Reform Bills’ Consideration Today as Finance Panel Submits Report Akpabio pledges legislative efforts to curb insecurity, hunger

Sunday Aborisade

Also during plenary, the Senate President charged the federal lawmakers to renew their commitment to tackling the nation’s worsening insecurity and growing economic hardship in the country.

He urged them to approach their duties with integrity, unity, and a sense of urgency as Nigerians grapple with deepening hunger and insecurity.

He highlighted key national challenges—rising living costs, instability in the energy sector, and escalating insecurity—as areas needing immediate legislative attention.

He described the violent conflicts in the South-East and North-West, herder-farmer clashes in the North-Central, and environmental

degradation in the South-South as “the bleeding wounds of the republic.”

Akpabio noted that the recent legislative recess coincided with Easter and Eid-el-Fitr, a period he said should inspire the values of sacrifice and discipline in public service.

“The burdens on our shoulders are enormous, and no season better prepares the soul to carry such burdens than the one we’ve just passed through,” Akpabio stated.

He reaffirmed the chamber’s support for the Tinubu’s administration, pledging to enact laws and strengthen oversight to back Executive efforts in stabilising the country.

On the national conversation

around electoral and judicial reforms, Akpabio acknowledged citizens’ growing demand for institutional accountability and called on his colleagues to respond with courage and diligence.

“The people are watching. The world is watching. Our constituents are watching. And history—silent but not sleeping—is watching,” he said.

Dangote Group Donates 20,000 Bags of Rice to Plateau State Govt

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund, NELFUND has assured Nigerian students of its commitment to building a technology-driven system to enhance seamless access to its loan services.

This assurance was given by the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NELFUND, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, during a stakeholders’ engagement session and technical workshop held in Abuja with representatives from polytechnics, monotechnics, and institutes.

Sawyerr revealed that more than 320,000 students have already received funding, while many more are currently undergoing verification.

He emphasized that NELFUND’s mission is not only to disburse loans but to ensure that every willing young Nigerian, regardless of their background or location, can access education without financial barriers.

“For too long, students in technical institutions have faced steep financial obstacles. Some drop out, while others never even apply due to a lack of means,” Sawyerr said. “This is the

The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, yesterday at plenary, disclosed that the red chamber will today begin the consideration of the Tax Reform Bills month after they were first introduced by President Bola Tinubu.

Akpabio stated this after the Chairman, Senate Committee on Finance, Senator Sani Musa, submitted his panel’s report on the fiscal documents.

Akpabio urged the committee to distribute copies of the bill to all senators to enable them to study it so that they would be able to make informed contributions during the consideration.

Seriki Adinoyi in Jos

The Dangote Group of Companies has donated 20,000 bags of 10kg rice to the Plateau State Government to support vulnerable residents across the state’s 17 Local Government Areas.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang, who flagged-off the distribution in Jos, lauded the Dangote Group for its sustained commitment to humanitarian support.

He described the gesture as exemplary, urging others in the private sector to emulate the company’s dedication to uplifting disadvantaged communities.

“No matter how wealthy one becomes, if you do not remember the poor, you will not find true value in your riches,” Mutfwang said.

The governor reiterated his administration’s efforts to mitigate the hardship faced by vulnerable groups, particularly during the farming season.

He disclosed that measures are in place to make fertilizers more accessible and affordable to farmers in a bid to boost food production.

He also expressed optimism about the state’s agricultural prospects, particularly in rice cultivation, stating that Plateau aims to position itself as part of Nigeria’s rice belt with an anticipated bumper harvest in the southern region of the state.

Presenting the donation on behalf of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Bashir Kawu stated that the initiative, carried out through the Dangote Foundation, is designed to alleviate food insecurity in all

local government areas.

He called on officials overseeing the distribution to ensure that the rice reaches the most vulnerable beneficiaries.

Meanwhile, Governor Mutfwang also received reports from the Committee on Land Administration and the Task Force on the Resettlement of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).

Air Commodore Christopher Rwang (rtd), chairman of the resettlement committee, explained that the team was inaugurated on March 25, 2024, with six key mandates guiding its work.

He said the committee’s report sheds light on new challenges preventing many IDPs from returning to their ancestral homes, citing security concerns in areas previously affected by violence.

secretary Sir James Cleverly is also positioning himself for a potential leadership contest as a centrist alternative to the right-wing Mr Jenrick, the report added.

Over the weekend, Sir James told GB News that Badenoch “knows she has my full support” but said he could “rule nothing out and nothing in” regarding a potential leadership bid should there be a vacancy.

Critics of Badenoch in the parliamentary party have spoken of their frustration over a lack of a strategy to deal with Reform.

In particular an attempt to get her support for an anti-Reform attack unit, with the help of former allies of Farage from Ukip and the Brexit Party who have joined the Tories, fell on deaf ears despite support from grandee Brexiteer Sir Bill Cash.

One senior backbencher said: “I feel like I have been banging my head against a brick wall trying to find out what the strategy is to take on Farage and Reform. There has been nothing.”

Jenrick, the shadow justice secretary, noticeably posted on X how all the Tory council candidates in his Newark seat had won on a day which saw hundreds of Tory councillors lose their seats. He spent the weekend

doing party fundraisers in different parts of the country.

But one MP said: “If we give Kemi another year it could be curtains for us. There are no policies, no ideas, no strategy and she has no charisma.”

MPs are calculating that once safe seats in East Anglia, Essex, Kent and across the south of England and shires would fall based on last week’s results.

There are also complaints about her choice of senior staff, especially ex-MPs like Rachel MacLean and Therese Coffey.

“They just don’t seem to understand the trouble we are in,” another MP said.

However, Tory MPs also are concerned that the updated rules meaning a third of them (currently 41 MPs) are needed to trigger a vote of confidence with letters to the 1922 Committee chair Bob Blackman.

While MPs are not putting their names on the record calling for Mrs Badenoch to go yet, other Conservatives have.

Jason Smithers, the former Tory leader of North Northamptonshire Council, called for Ms Badenoch to go following the results, saying: “I can’t see how a leader of a party can stay on with such terrible results across the country.”

NELFUND Assures of Easier Access to Loans Through Tech-driven Platform Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

gap NELFUND seeks to close. But we can’t do it alone. It requires collaboration with government bodies and the private sector.”

Highlighting the Fund’s goals, he stated that NELFUND is developing a platform characterized by transparency, accountability, and efficiency.

The aim is to enable students to apply with confidence, institutions to verify swiftly, and funds to be disbursed in a timely and fair manner.

“We’re aiming for access without stress—a platform students can use with confidence,” he added.

“Transparency and trust are key, so that no one is left wondering about their application status. This system must reflect real-world conditions, not just assumptions.”

He praised the technical institutions for their role in developing skills, building careers, and supporting communities. Sawyerr emphasized the importance of institutional feedback and cooperation in shaping a loan system that is responsive and effective.

“To NBTE, we recognize your leadership in technical education.

Your collaboration is essential as we advance the integration of NELFUND

systems,” he noted.

Also speaking at the event, NELFUND’s Executive Director of Operations, Mr. Iyal Mustapha, reaffirmed that over 320,000 students have already been paid, and verifications are ongoing for more applicants. He explained that of the 576,000 students registered on the NELFUND portal, only 516,000 completed their applications.

“The difference stems from incomplete processes—some due to lack of data, others from disinterest or system testing. We want to close this gap,” Mustapha said. “With institutional support, we can ensure more students complete the process and access both the upkeep loan, which offers N20,000 monthly, and the institutional loan, which is paid directly to schools.”

He emphasized that institutions play a key role in verifying student information and enabling the disbursement process. He announced that NELFUND is exploring technical integration with institutional portals through APIs, which would allow seamless access to student data directly from the schools’ systems.

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SENATE RESUMES PLENARY AFTER RAMADAN/EASTER BREAK...

L-R: Chairman, Senate Committee on Appropriation, Senator Solomon Adeola; President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio; Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibrin Barau; Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele; and Senate Whip, Senator Tahir Monguno, at the resumption of plenary after the Ramadan/Easter break, yesterday

Lagos Govt: Africa’s Largest Central Food Systems Hub Will Boost Lagos N14trn Market

Segun James

As part of move to boost the Lagos Food System which is the most sophisticated in Africa, the state government is in the process of completing a Central Food Systems and Logistics hub in Epe that will increase the worth to N14 trillion.

The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola Olusanya who revealed this yesterday, said: “The Lagos Central Food Security Systems and Logistics Hub, represents a flagship project by the Lagos State Government to modernize and secure the state’s food distribution ecosystem, conceptualized as part of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s broader vision for agricultural and food systems transformation.”

According to Olusanya who disclosed this during the ongoing ministerial press briefing to commemorate the second year in office of the second term of the state governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu at Alausa, Ikeja, the facility will also serve over 1,500 trucks daily.

His words: “The hub is designed to serve as a central, data-driven, and technologically integrated complex for food aggregation, storage, processing, and distribution.

“Upon completion, it will stand as the largest food logistics hub in Sub-Saharan Africa. It will feature

facilities to service over 1,500 (40mt) trucks daily and is expected to boost the N14 trillion food market in Lagos.”

She added: “With expected completion of Phase 1 within the next few months, it will be a game changer in the Nigerian food sovereignty plan, considering the emulation of Lagos as a pioneer as seen recently in the adoption of the project by other states.

“Upon completion, Lagosians can anticipate an impactful reduction in food prices due to integrated facilities like cold and dry storage, a 14,000-capacity abattoir, and a jetty for streamlined goods transportation.”

Olusanya, stressed the project is structured as a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) under a DesignBuild-Finance-Operate-and-Transfer (DBFOT) model to ensure long-term sustainability and professional

The World Health Organization (WHO) has said that Nigeria and the rest of Africa are being confronted with over100 health emergencies every year Speaking during the formal presentation of eight emergency response vehicles to the FCT team led by the Mandate Secretary for Health and Social Services, Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, the Country Director of the WHO, Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, said the initiative seeks to develop a multidisciplinary, trained and rapidly deployable national workforce, backed by strong operations and logistics at all level and led by the government.

“It is indeed a reason for joy to see this ceremony, which is here to mark the official hand over of eight utility vehicles, by the WHO to the Federal Capital Territory administration,” he said.

opportunities across the agriculture and logistics value chain - from farmers and transporters to retailers and cold chain operators.

The Commissioner noted it will “guarantee uninterrupted food supply to over 10 million Lagos residents for at least 90 days during emergency or lean periods. Reduce food transportation costs and post-harvest losses, which currently account for 30–50 per cent of total food losses in Nigeria.

“Beyond its immediate function as a food distribution center, the hub is fast becoming a model for other Nigerian states and West African cities.

“It will serve as a foundation for the development of satellite food hubs across the 57 Local Government/ council development Areas of Lagos, integrating rural and peri-urban food systems with urban consumption patterns,” Olusanya stated.

Pate: FG’s Health Sector Reform Recording Progress ‘Improvement in skilled birth attendance, antenatal care, data reporting’

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, has said Nigeria was making significant improvements in healthcare access and in the delivery of quality healthcare services to Nigerians, especially at the Primary Health Care (PHC) level.

Pate who spoke at the Sector-Wide Approach State Strategic Engagement with North Central and South Western States Stakeholders ‘ on Tuesday in Abuja, said that following the reforms in the health sector, about 80 million contacts were made at the

Primary Healthcare Centres.

He commended the collaborative efforts of the states ensuring improved healthcare delivery to the people at the grassroots level.

According to him, despite the prevailing challenges, some states have recorded significant improvements in skilled birth attendance, antenatal care attendance as well as in performance data reporting.

He said: “In some areas, the performance is marginal, but we’re also learning from each other. Overall, we’re seeing improvement in how states are reporting data about their performance.

Africa Facing Over 100 Health Emergencies Annually, Says WHO Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

management of the facility.

“The hub occupies approximately four million square meters (400 hectares) of land. The first phase alone covers 100 hectares, and once fully developed, the facility is expected to handle the storage, processing, and timely distribution of over 1.5 million metric tonnes of food annually.”

She explained the hub will generate over five million income

Molumbo said the flagship project was designed by the Regional Director in consultation with Africa Centre for Disease Control (CDC) to ensure that countries are able to mobilize within 24 hours of a confirmed emergency.

“The initiative aims to develop a multidisciplinary, trained and rapidly deployable national workforce, backed by strong operations and logistics at all level and led by the government.

He said the donation was a practical step forward in realizing the initiative of four pillars, namely, the workforce development, the response coordination, operations and logistics and Risk Communication and Community Engagement.

He explained that the intervention was a joint initiative between WHO African region and Africa, CDC. Mulombo said the event served as a reminder of a journey started

by WHO and partners three years ago in December 2022, when they

organized the training for the first batch of advocacy responders.

“This is in recognition of the fact that, as you know, Africa continues to experience more than 100 health emergencies annually, ranging from disease outbreaks and natural disasters to conflict-driven crises, and Nigeria contributes a lot to that, as you all know.

“The COVID 19 pandemic, Ebola outbreak, cholera outbreak, Lassa fever, recently, dictatorial outbreaks, and even anthrax have tested our system and exposed gaps that need to be urgently addressed. These he said ranges from coordination to mobility, workforce readiness and logistics.

“On behalf of the World Health Organization in Nigeria, today, we are gathering to mark an important milestone in our collective effort to strengthen emergency preparedness and response in the Federal Capital Territory.

“Just to put it in context, every quarter about 20 million contacts are made with Nigerians through the primary health care system that has now been revamped.

“That means about 80 million contacts. It doesn’t mean 80 million people, but it means at least 80 million contacts per year, which means that the primary health care system, imperfect as it may be, is beginning to pick up because of the reforms that this government started under the leadership of the president and with the support of all the states, the local government, civil society, and development partners, as well as Nigerians, because it is all of us, including community leaders, traditional leaders, that have to demand for the care.

“This is an exercise to assess our performance by ourselves, leading

up to the joint annual review that we will do later this year, and we’re very pleased with the support that we’re seeing from all the states that are actively engaged in this effort, which is part of really the transformation that we are undertaking together with everyone.”

Pate who regretted that the health sector had suffered many years of under investments, noted that even though it would take some time before the country’s health sector is positioned the way Nigerians were looking forward to, the current administration has in the last two years, undertaken deliberate investments to drive needed reform in the sector.

“We expect that on an annual basis, that joint review will take place, the state of health report will be produced, so that Nigerians get

a sense of where we are. We have a health sector that has had many years of under investments, but this administration over the last two years, deliberately, under the leadership of the president, has invested, and many state governments are matching what the federal government is trying to do.

“So, it’s a continuous process, and it will take us some time for Nigeria’s health sector to be the way we want it to be.

“But we have started that journey of transformation, and we all have to continue on that path. We have to join hands with the federal government and state, local governments also have to step up.

“The civil society organizations and the media also have to educate Nigerians that health is one thing that should bring everybody together, because it affects all of us.

Nigeria Champions Electrification of 300 Million Africans By 2030 Juliet Akoje in Abuja

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has announced that Nigeria is taking a leadership role in electrifying the African continent, with a goal to provide power to 300 million Africans by 2030.

Abbas made this statement during the First Legislative Conference and Expo on Renewable Energy, hosted by the House Committee on Renewable Energy in collaboration with the UNDP in Lagos.

He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving a $1 billion investment for the Rural Electrification Agency in December 2024 of which

$750 million is dedicated to expanding solar access through 124 mini-grids and 25,000 solar home systems, benefiting over 200,000 Nigerians.

Abbas emphasized Nigeria’s participation in the Mission 300 Initiative - a collaboration with the World Bank and African Development Bank as a testament to its dedication to clean and inclusive energy access.

He urged cohesive action from all sectors: legislators to develop solid legal frameworks, the executive to act with urgency, the private sector to innovate and invest, and civil society to drive awareness and accountability.

He reaffirmed the House’s commitment to clean energy, citing the formation of a Standing Committee

on Renewable Energy and strategic legislative steps like removing VAT on renewable energy components and compressed natural gas (CNG) technologies.

He also highlighted efforts to provide legal backing for Nigeria’s Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Policy (REEEP) of 2015.

Citing international energy trends, Abbas stressed the urgency of a clean energy transition.

“In 2024, over 92% of new global power capacity came from renewables, bringing total global capacity to over 4,448 GW. In 2023 alone, $1.7 trillion of the $2.8 trillion invested in energy went into renewables, efficiency, and electric mobility.”

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Vatican Cuts Phone Signals as Cardinals Enter Seclusion for Pope’s Election

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Vatican yesterday announced that it will cut the phone signal within the tiny city state during the conclave to elect a new pope, but stated that this would not affect St Peter’s Square.

The office of the presidency of the Governorate of the Vatican City State said that “all the transmission systems of the telecommunications signal for mobile telephones present in the territory of the Vatican City State … will be deactivated” from 3pm on May 7 (today).

“The signal will be restored after the announcement of the election of the supreme pontiff,” it said in a statement.

Thousands of faithful are expected

to gather in the square in front of St Peter’s Basilica to await the announcement of a successor to Pope Francis, who died on 21 April. A total of 133 cardinals from across the globe will gather in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel on Wednesday to begin voting for a new head of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics.

The election is carried out in utmost secrecy and the cardinals will be required to leave their mobile phones behind when they enter the conclave, an AFP report, quoted by the UK Guardian said.

Cardinals who will take part in the secret conclave to elect a new Catholic pope began checking into two Vatican hotels on Tuesday, where they will be barred from contact with

the outside world as they decide who should succeed Pope Francis.

The conclave will start behind the closed doors of the Sistine Chapel this afternoon, with all cardinals under the age of 80 able to vote on who should be the next leader of the Church.

The race to succeed Francis, who died last month, is seen as wide open. Although a few names have been cited as possible front-runners, several of the 133 cardinals expected to vote in the conclave have said they do not know who will become the next pope.

“I have no guess,” Cardinal Robert McElroy said during a visit to a parish in Rome on Monday evening.

The conclave process is “profound

and mysterious,” said McElroy, the archbishop of Washington, D.C. “I can give you no insights into who is ahead,” he told Reuters.

Some cardinals are looking for a new pope who will continue with Francis’ push for a more transparent, welcoming Church, while others are seeking retrenchment to more traditional roots that put a premium on doctrine.

Conclaves are often spread out over several days, with multiple votes held before a contender wins the necessary three-quarters majority to become pope. During the conclave period, the voting cardinals will stay in two Vatican guesthouses and take an oath to remain out of contact with anyone not participating in the secret vote.

With $75 Budget Benchmark, Concerns Mount as Oil Price Hovers Around $60

low of $58.50 a barrel, its lowest since February 2021, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI), was $58.94 per barrel, 24 hours after it sold for $55.30.

Analysts believe that the low poses a huge blow to Nigeria’s N55 trillion 2025 budget, which was built around a $75/barrel oil price benchmark, maintaining that the revenue gap is something to worry about.

With the prevailing situation, Nigeria has been recording about $15 per barrel deficit compared with the oil price peg for this year.

The country has also not been able to meet its crude production benchmark of 2.06 million barrels per day, having only been able to record 1.6 million bpd in March, even with the addition of condensates.

But despite the assurance by the federal government that it was responding to the looming economic challenges posed by the decline in oil prices, analysts yesterday advised the government to reprioritise its budget projections.

This, they said, would help Nigeria avoid escalating fiscal deficit and debt burden, which they stressed would have serious macroeconomic implications for the economy.

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) also expressed fears that the drop in the international market price of crude oil might trigger more

suffering for the Nigerian masses.

The continuing fall in global oil prices has clearly been exerting serious pressure on Nigeria’s 2025 federal budget.

Despite the authorities playing down its expected impact on the economy, the consequences if uncurbed may be severe, with its attendant effect of weakening the naira, which already trades above N1,600 to the dollar, compared to the budget assumption of N1,400.

Recently, the government said it was responding by revisiting its fiscal plans, including the setting up of a subcommittee under the Economic Management Team, to model alternative budget scenarios.

Commenting on the development, an Economist and Chief Executive Officer of Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), Dr. Muda Yusuf, advised the federal government to reprioritise its budget projections to avoid escalating fiscal deficit and debt burden, which would have serious macroeconomic implications on the economy.

Yusuf said: “The drop in crude oil price will have significant implications for the implementation of the 2025 national budget.

“This means that there is an urgent need to review the budget’s revenue and expenditure projections

in order to avoid a situation whereby a shortfall in revenue will cause serious macroeconomic challenges, such as increases in fiscal deficit and national debt.”

According to him, escalating fiscal deficit and debt burden have a way of creating serious macro-economic challenges.

“So there is an urgent need for a serious adjustment in the budget’s projections to determine what and what it should drop. As much as possible, we should avoid exacerbating the challenge of fiscal deficit.

“We should avoid the problem of fiscal deficit and debt financing as much as possible because we must ensure macroeconomic stability so that we do not overheat the economy.

In his contribution, the National President of Nigeria Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Dele Oye, reiterated to THISDAY that Nigeria was faced with double jeopardy of falling oil prices and low oil production.

He pointed out that the current trend in crude oil prices might increase the projected fiscal deficit of N30 trillion by 50 per cent.

He added: “This will have a significant effect on all our fundamentals, especially the price of the Naira at the foreign exchange market. This is

MAN, NECA, Ndume Hail FG’s Nigeria First Policy

Refineries Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) urged the federal government to be careful in implementing the policy to avoid unintended consequences.

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) on Monday, approved a new policy framework tagged the ‘Renewed Hope Nigeria First Policy’, which aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s domestic economy and promoting local content.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, had during a media engagement after the FEC meeting in Abuja, described the planned ban on the importation of foreign goods as a bold shift in the country’s economic approach.

According to MAN and NECA, the new policy would enhance local productivity, increase investments, potentially boost GDP by 56 percent and reduce unemployment by 37 percent.

In a separate statement yesterday, the Director General of MAN, Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir, said that the policy directive would impact on development of local content, which borders on appropriate technical knowledge transfer to Nigerian professionals.

Ajayi-Kadir said this initiative was a welcome development in the right direction, adding that, “it is a cheering news and long-awaited relief to resilient Nigerian manufacturers, who, despite the tough economic environment, have demonstrated enduring faith in the potential greatness of the Nigerian economy.

“We see this initiative as a true and definite demonstration of the government’s commitment to promoting local industries, boosting economic growth, and creating jobs for Nigerians.

“By giving preference to locally

produced goods and services, we can stimulate demand, increase capacity utilisation, and attract investments into the manufacturing sector.”

He said MAN believed that this policy would have a multiplier effect on the economy, leading to increased economic activity, improved GDP growth, and enhanced competitiveness of Nigerian industries.

Furthermore, he said, from earlier survey, the effective implementation of such an initiative (as should be stipulated in the consequential executive order) would scale investments and potentially boost GDP by 56 percent, reduce unemployment by 37 per cent and increase firms’ willingness to employ from 1.5 per cent to 22.6 per cent.

He stressed the need for all tiers of government, private sector entities, and individuals to support this initiative by patronising Made-in-Nigeria goods and services.

“This is with a special focus on uniformed government agencies and institutions (including the military and police), the legislature and quite importantly, the Presidency.

“All government contracts should prioritise the patronage of made in Nigeria materials. So, government needs to consult with manufacturers on the way forward to achieve effective and efficient implementation,” he said.

According to him, the new directive was long overdue, and the government, being the biggest spender, would do well to lead by example.

“This will certainly send the right signals and raise consumer confidence in made in Nigeria products,” Ajayi-Kadir said.

He added: “I would say that Mr. President has blown the whistle, let the race to realising the full potentials of our economy begin.

“Let us recommit to the beneficiation of our natural endowments. Let us put action to consuming what we produce, so that we can expand the production of what we consume. This way, we can build a prosperous, more diversified and inclusive economy that benefits all Nigerians.”

In his own reaction, the Director General of NECA, Mr. Mr. AdewaleSmatt Oyerinde, said yesterday, that the new policy would boost local production and stimulate the economy.

Oyerinde stated that. “this is a great move, a strategic economic imperative that we’ve been clamouring for.

“Over the past few years, we’ve urged the government to prioritise the patronage of made in Nigeria goods, as this will not only promote local production but will fundamentally reduce the pressure on forex demands, stimulate local industrial growth and facilitate job creation and preservation among many others.”

He added: “We commend the government for this move and urge a thorough implementation.

Without implementation across all Ministries, Departments and Agencies, the policy could suffer the faith of many like it.”

For his part, Ndume also commended the present administration move to ban the importation of foreign goods that could be produced in the country.

Ndume, a former Senate Leader in a statement yesterday, said the bold initiative by Tinubu would go a long way in promoting indigenous entrepreneurs.

He also said it would boost the local economy and generate employment for Nigerians.

He added, “It is heartwarming to hear that President Tinubu has taken this bold decision to ban imported goods that can be produced locally.

why the government needs to reduce its spending by addressing leakages in the current budget, so that it will not affect the market.

“Otherwise, the Naira will fall further, and there will be inflation, and the government will not be able to pay for services. In addition, the market will be unstable because the receipt will be far below the projected revenue in the budget.”

Oye, therefore, called on the government to cut its coat according to the size of its cloth.

“But the government is not behaving that way as it awarded a contract of $700 million to renovate the port. Where is it going to get that money?” he asked.

Analysts: Lower Oil Price Puts Economy in Dire Situation

However, analysts yesterday expressed concerns over the fate of the Nigerian economy amid falling oil prices below the $75 per barrel benchmark in the 2025 budget.

In separate interviews with THISDAY, they said the consequences of a bearish international crude oil market on the Nigerian economy were grave, adding that the $15 per barrel gap creates an additional deficit in budget performance.

They said the development has

“This will be a major boost for indigenous businesses amid the slipping Nigerian economy.

“If implemented faithfully, it will shield our local producers striving to find their feet from being choked out of existence by established foreign investors who flood our market, unhindered, with goods that are cheaper and even substandard.

“With protection of local industries, there will be employment for our employable youths, the measure will also boost our Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and the value of Naira will appreciate.

“This is because there will be less strain on our foreign reserves, since the demand for foreign exchange by importers of such foreign goods would drastically reduce.”

The lawmaker also suggested to the Federal Government to “also impose heavy taxes on some of the foreign goods to discourage Nigerians from buying them and pick locally produced items.”

Atiku to Tinubu: Trade Your Escalade for Innoson to Prove Nigeria First Policy

Atiku Abubakar, in a statement, challenged Tinubu to put the policy to practice by trading his Escalade official vehicle for a local brand such as Innoson or other local brands.

He also dared Tinubu to choose local hospitals for his medicals over foreign medical institutions.

Atiku through his spokesman, Phrank Shaibu said: “The Tinubu administration’s latest Nigeria First mantra, paraded through FEC, is nothing but another tired PR stunt — designed to deceive, not deliver.

“Nigerians have grown weary of hollow speeches. If this government Continued on page 28

Francis had a priority of appointing cardinals from countries that had never had them before, such as Haiti, South Sudan and Myanmar.

This conclave will be the most geographically diverse in the Church’s 2,000-year history, with clerics from 70 countries taking part.

Japanese Cardinal Tarcisio Isao Kikuchi told La Repubblica newspaper that many of the 23 cardinals from Asia voting in the conclave planned to vote as a block.

He contrasted their strategy with that of the 53 cardinals from Europe, who are known to vote in terms of individual countries or other personal preferences.

“We Asians are probably more unanimous in supporting one or negative ramifications for Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth, and poverty eradication among others, warning that the continuing slide in oil prices below the budget benchmark would worsen the government’s fiscal position, and dampen prospects for infrastructure development.

Nigeria’s Professor of Capital Market, Uche Uwaleke, said though the oil sector accounted for less than 10 per cent of the economy, nonetheless, it contributes over 80 per cent of the country’s FX inflows.

Hence, he said the persistent decline in the crude oil price will negatively impact external reserves with adverse consequences on FX market liquidity and exchange rates, adding that the implications could be quite grave for the economy.

Uwaleke said: “If the naira depreciates in the FX market on account of low FX supply, inflation rate is bound to rise further. With higher inflation comes higher interest rates from monetary policy tightening which leads to higher cost of credit for firms already in debt as well as lower access to credit for entrepreneurs.

“On the fiscal side, it has the downside potential of reducing economic activities and shrinking output if the experience of 2015 is anything to go by which largely caused the recession of 2016.

“Given that both the federal and state governments have prepared their 2025 budgets based on $75 per barrel, the downward trend in the oil price could compel a drastic reduction especially in capital budget provisions.”

According to the former Imo State Commissioner Finance, federation revenues may drop to a point where many state governments become unable to pay the minimum wage resulting in lower aggregate demand for goods and services.

He noted that the situation could further lead to lower sales, inventory accumulation and possible loss of jobs, with higher unemployment and poverty rates.

On the way forward, Uwaleke said

Late Pope Francis two candidates ... we will see which name will come out as the leading candidate,” said Kikuchi.

the Central Bank of Nigeria(CBN) should continue to implement measures aimed at boosting confidence in FX market in order to attract the much-needed foreign investments including Diaspora remittances.

He added: “The government can revisit the estimates in the 2025 budget with a view to prioritising spending in such a way that the deficit is not further widened on account of the decline in the oil price leading to more borrowing. This period also demands cost-cutting measures by all tiers of government.”

Also, speaking to THISDAY, Group Managing Director/Chief Executive, Bristol Investments Limited, Dr. Chijioke Ekechukwu, said a low oil price regime creates an additional deficit in budget implementation.

He added: “Budget deficit leaves us with no other option but to borrow, but additional deficit creates more borrowing options, which will further worsen our economy, by increasing the debt to GDP ratio and debt service to revenue ratio.

“More revenues will be deployed to servicing our debts. Revenues that should have funded other critical sectors. Our foreign reserves will be affected adversely. It will deplete as the revenue declines. When foreign reserves drop, our exchange rate increases as a result of the demand for foreign currencies.”

The former Director General, Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry added: “When the exchange rate increases, the inflation rate will increase, the cost of living will increase, and hardship will pervade. Reduction in GDP will lead to reduction in per capita income, leading to more poverty. There is going to be an adverse ripple effect.”

On his part, Managing Director/ Chief Executive, SD&D Capital Management Limited, Mr. Idakolo Gbolade, said the federal government should make budgetary adjustments to accommodate shortfalls and prioritise project execution and funds Continued on page 29

NUPRC Pledges Support as ExxonMobil Commits to $1.5bn Deepwater Investment

Shane Harris, to the Commission Chief Executive of the NUPRC, Mr Gbenga Komolafe.

The company proposed Final Investment Decision (FID) for late Q3, 2025 subject to final Field Development Plan (FDP) approval as well as internal and partner funding approvals, the upstream regulator added.

According to the NUPRC, this is in addition to investment targeted at the accelerated development of the Owowo, Erha deepwater oil fields, amongst others.

The ExxonMobil chief, Harris, while speaking, stated that the planned capital deployment reflects ExxonMobil’s confidence in Nigeria’s upstream potential and its dedication to playing a pivotal role in the sector’s growth.

The move counters speculation about ExxonMobil’s potential withdrawal from Nigeria, instead underscoring a strategic expansion and strengthening of its operational footprint in the country.

Harris also voiced ExxonMobil’s

support for the NUPRC’s “Project 1 Million Barrels” initiative, which aims to increase Nigeria’s crude oil production to 2.4 million barrels per day in the medium term.

On his part, the NUPRC Chief Executive, Gbenga Komolafe, welcomed the announcement, reaffirming the NUPRC’s role as a business enabler and pledging regulatory support to facilitate ExxonMobil’s operations.

Komolafe highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration between regulators and investors to meet Nigeria’s production and energy security goals.

Discussions during the visit, the NUPRC stressed, also addressed compliance with the Domestic Crude Supply Obligation (DCSO) and the need for transparent pricing and accountability in the sector.

“The commission is committed to the implementation of Section 109 of the PIA which addresses the subject of willing buyer, willing seller and we urge producers to comply,” Komolafe stated.

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WEDNESDAY, MAY 7, 2025 • THISDAY

NEWS

NDLEA STAKEHOLDER CONFERENCE FOR NIGERIA GOVS’ SPOUSES ON DRUG PREVENTION...

L-R: Wife of Ogun State Governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun; Chairman/CEO, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd.); Representative of the First Lady/wife of the Deputy Senate President, Hajiya Hauwa Barau; and wife of Delta State Governor, Mrs. Tobore Oborevwori, during the NDLEA Stakeholder Conference for Nigeria Governors’ Spouses on Drug photo: ENOCK REUBEN Prevention, Treatment and Care (DPTC) in Abuja, yesterday

Drug War: First Lady, UNODC, Marwa Charge States on Community-based Interventions Michael Olugbode in Abuja State governments have been charged to embrace and entrench community-based interventions that will curb the impact of the scourge of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking at the grassroots in line with the National Drug Control Master Plan (NDCMP).

The charge was the highpoint of remarks by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd), Country Representative of the

United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Cheikh Toure as well as ECOWAS representative, Dr. Daniel Amankwaah at a training workshop organized by NDLEA for the Nigeria Governors Spouses’ Forum in Abuja on Tuesday.

In her keynote address to the gathering, the First Lady commended the NDLEA, and NGSF for the initiative aimed at advancing drug control efforts to the grassroots across the country.

She specifically commended Marwa and his team “for courageously confronting the fight against illicit drug abuse and trafficking in

the country.”

Senator Tinubu, represented by wife of the Deputy Senate President, Hajiya Laila Jibrin Barau, said: “This training cannot be coming at any better time than now when statistics and daily life experiences are revealing that drugs have infiltrated every nook and cranny of our communities.

“As a nation, we are confronted with a growing crisis, one that affects the very core of our society, the health, safety, and future of our children.

“The rising tide of drug and substance abuse amongst

adolescents is a challenge that we must no longer ignore or tackle in isolation. It requires concerted efforts, community-driven response, one that integrates enforcement, education, family support, and sustained intervention.

“Our presence at this training testifies to the collective resolve we display in ensuring that we strengthen, secure, and safeguard families and communities.

“Today’s training will ensure that we are adequately armed with the right knowledge, tools, skills, and competencies necessary to effectively tackle this complex issue.

Alleged Misappropriated N234bn: CSOs Demand Explanation from IGP Egbetokun Petition ICPC, demand investigation

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) have called on the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun to proffer explanation regarding the alleged misappropriation of the sum of N234 billion in the force.

The CSOs made the demand on Tuesday in Abuja at the roundtable on Police Reform and Accountability.

Speaking, the Convener and the Executive Director, Peering Advocacy and Advancement Centre in Africa (PAACA), Ezenwa Nwagwu, said rather than making accusations, they decided to raise critical questions in the public interest - questions that demand thoughtful and transparent answers.

He said it was not only to uphold institutional integrity but to restore public confidence in our policing system.

Ezenwa noted that the recent developments have raised serious questions about the prudent management of resources within the force.

He expressed worry over reports circulating in the media and from whistleblowers alleging possible financial misconduct under the current leadership of the force.

Ezenwa stated: “Reports circulating on social media that over N234 billion may have been mismanaged under the current administration of the Police Force call for serious concern and deserve a transparent and detailed response

or explanation.”

He added that some of these allegations as they have read, involved claims of diversion of funds for internal security, contract awards, and disposal of Police Assets to cronies.

Ezenwa added: “For instance, we expect an explanation to reports alleging a N6 billion contract for police uniforms was split into 66 smaller contracts - each just under the procurement threshold - despite a prior budgetary allocation for the same purpose?

“Could it be true that On January 16, 2024, through internal memo CQ 6000/DLS/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.83/946, IGP Egbetokun reportedly approved the award of a N6 billion contract for the supply of police uniforms, an

amount well beyond his approval threshold.

“To evade financial regulations, the contract was alleged to have been illegally split into sixty-six (66) separate awards, each valued under N100 million, all awarded to a single company, a certain Messrs Crown Natures Nigeria Plc, in direct violation of the Public Procurement Act. “To fund this massive irregularity, IGP Egbetokun allegedly diverted N6 billion from the Police Internal Security Operations budgetary allocation, money originally meant to enhance operational readiness in combating internal threats.

“It is my hope that this capacitybuilding workshop, through honest discussions and sharing of best practices, will provide valuable insights into evidence-based strategies for prevention, early intervention, and holistic treatment approaches, especially targeting marginalized and vulnerable communities.

“I urge us to utilize the knowledge gathered at this training to develop viable solutions while collaborating with relevant stakeholders, especially the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, other law enforcement agencies, MDAs, civil society organizations, healthcare providers, educators, and community leaders.

“Let us always bear in mind that as state First Ladies, you owe our people the duty to lead by example, to bear their burden, and share in their pain as we jointly confront drug abuse in our society.

“I urge us to continue to provide the right direction through prevention initiatives, advocating for those whose voices have been silenced by addiction, providing community interventions to support recovery and reintegrate people into communities after treatment.

“Let us approach the formidable task ahead with humility, doggedness, and commitment to enable us to build communities where our children are protected from harm and empowered to thrive.

“Together, we can change the narrative, restore dignity to our communities, and ensure a healthier, safer future for all Nigerians.”

In his welcome address, Marwa noted the drug scourge obstructs progress and dims prospects in an already beleaguered world.

His words: “Regrettably, Nigeria is

not immune to this scourge, which steadily infiltrates every stratum of our society. Statistics, academic research, and lived experiences alike reveal a grim reality about illicit drug use and consequences in the country.

“The magnitude and impact of the drug crisis render the attainment of our national aspiration - improving the health and security of all who dwell within our borders, as enshrined in the National Drug Control Master Plan 2021–2025 - a daunting yet inevitable task for any government and people worthy of the name.”

He also said it is imperative for all stakeholders at the workshop to adopt urgent, holistic, and inclusive strategies to dismantle the drug menace.

According to him, “Over the past four years, the NDLEA has pursued this mission with renewed and unwavering zeal, ensuring that Nigeria’s hard-won global and regional drug control successes are not merely preserved but expanded.

“Permit me to inform this distinguished gathering that over the four years, the NDLEA has deployed substantial resources towards a comprehensive assault on the drug problem, yielding significant outcomes.

“Under the drug supply reduction mandate - encompassing drug seizures, arrests, prosecutions, and convictions - we recorded the arrest of 62,595 drug suspects (Including 68 drug barons), the seizure of 10,317,137.55 kilograms of assorted drugs, and secured the conviction of 11,628 offenders. Furthermore, 1,330.56553 hectares of cannabis farms were identified and destroyed.

Europe Day 2025: British Council, EU, ECOWAS Hold Benue Launches Electric/Solar-Powered Taxis with Virtual Graduation for Sustainable Energy Scholars Zero Emissions to Solve Transportation Problems Funmi Ogundare

George Okoh in Makurdi

The Benue State Investment and Property Company (BIPC) has launched a high-tech Green Wheel Electric/Solar Powered Taxi.

The vehicles are 100 per cent zero-emission technology aims to promote eco-friendly transportation.

The group managing director, Dr. Raymond Asemakaha, during the commissioning, which was held at the BIPC Head Office in Makurdi, said the electric vehicles would reduce the state’s reliance on fossil fuels, decrease air pollution, and mitigate the impacts

of climate change.

He described the electric vehicles as a testament to the company’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting sustainable mobility.

He added: “Today, we gather to mark a significant milestone in our journey towards a more sustainable future.”

The MD commended the governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, and all parties involved in making the project a reality.

According to him, “the commissioning of the Green Wheel Taxi

demonstrates Benue State’s commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship, paving the way for a cleaner and greener future.”

He said: “To our esteemed CoManager Esse Mobility, we are grateful for unlocking the electricity vehicle.

This will go a long way in reducing unemployment and increasing our state’s GDP. “As we move forward, let’s continue to prioritize sustainability, innovation, and environmental stewardship. Together, we can create a cleaner, greener future for generations to come.”

The British Council, in collaboration with the European Union (EU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is set to host a virtual graduation ceremony to celebrate Europe Day 2025.

The programme which will honour the first graduating class of the EUECOWAS scholarship program for sustainable energy, will on hold on May 9 on Microsoft Teams (virtually).

Donna McGowan, Country Director of the British Council Nigeria, in a statement, explained the event marks a major milestone for the 40 young scholars from across the ECOWAS region who successfully completed

fully funded two-year Master’s degrees in sustainable energy.

She noted the graduates, many of whom are women, represent a new generation of leaders committed to transforming West Africa’s renewable energy sector.

“The online celebration will feature keynote addresses from representatives of the EU, ECOWAS, and the British Council, as well as industry leaders in sustainable energy. Attendees will also hear directly from the graduates, whose stories highlight the transformative power of education and international cooperation,” she stressed.

The programme, McGowan said, is not just about academic achievement, it’s about building capacity for Africa’s

energy future through strong global partnerships.

“It’s especially meaningful to mark this occasion on Europe Day, which celebrates peace, solidarity, and cooperation.”

The country director explained that the EU–ECOWAS Scholarship Programme was launched to build technical expertise in West Africa, a region rich in renewable energy potential but still developing its human capital in the sector.

“The event also aims to inspire the next generation, especially women and young professionals interested in sustainability by offering insights into the programme and guidance on how to apply.

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T H I S D AY • Wednesday MAY 7, 2025

Politics

Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com 08033025611 sms only

The Lagos Salesman

In his hands is an exquisite product, Lagos, and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, would stop at nothing in marketing it to all prospective investors, writes Shola Oyeyipo

A

t every opportunity, the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu is relentless in marketing the state to would-be investors – local and foreign.

He is obviously not battling the famous second term syndrome.

Whilst he would not be seeking re-election by the next election cycle, he is curiously not slowing down. He’s probably realised that his legacy is as important as his succession.

This, therefore, explains why he is firing from all cylinders in his commitment to marketing Lagos to investors and making the state the favourite destination for investors of all kinds.

Anyone monitoring the Sanwo-Olu administration would have noticed how he has continued to work relentlessly in the bid to attract foreign-direct investments into Lagos State.

Lagos, the state of aquatic splendour, presently ranks as the business capital of Africa, and it is in that light that he beamed lights on the potentials of the state, when he took to the podium recently at Harvard Business School.

Sanwo-Olu spoke as a guest during a course by a renowned Nigerian academic and businessman, Professor Hakeem Belo-Osagie, themed, “Understanding Africa: Business, Entrepreneurship, Political Economy and the Complexities of a Continent,” the governor dwelled on the topic: “Building the Future: Lagos State’s Infrastructure-Led Transformation.”

This, no doubt, presented Sanwo-Olu with the opportunity to share his administration’s ambitious vision for Lagos and the progress recorded in areas like transportation, housing, climate innovation, and industrial development, which he said were precursors for business growth, thereby making Lagos the most ideal destination for investors.

Look at the statistics: The state’s GDP of $259bn, it’s 25 million population, the functional Lagos Blue Line, which is the first intra-city electric rail system in Africa, the Red Line, and the about-to-be started Green Line project, aimed to connect Lagos Island with the Lekki-Epe corridor.

Not done, he further listed the abundant tech savvy youth population, which he said constitutes the bedrock of a 30-year Development Plan to create a human-centric economy in Lagos, investments in education at all levels, investment-friendly policies, and the state’s four seaports, were parts of the factors Sanwo-Olu boasted as why Lagos is a business and commercially viable destination.

According to him, “What truly made the session special was the engaging discussion with the brilliant students. Their insightful and thought-provoking questions, covering topics such as leadership, sustainable revenue generation, infrastructure renewal, and investment partnerships, showcased just how much interest there is in Africa’s urban transformation.

“Lagos is on the rise, not only in terms of growth but also in importance. We aim to be a shining example of how infrastructure can drive prosperity across the continent, and this reinforces that we’re heading in the right direction.”

Sometime ago, the governor, who joined other participants at 2025 edition of the Commonwealth Trade and Investment Summit (CTIS), held at the City of London’s historic Mansion House, London, on Monday, April 7, 2025, did what he knows how to do best by presenting Lagos to the commonwealth business community as a state in Nigeria ready to receive businesses.

He joined Heads of Governments, senior ministers, and representatives of Commonwealth governments in the plenary, participated in roundtable discussions, and networked some of the commonwealth’s key participants.

Sanwo-Olu addressing students at Harvard and by extension marketing Lagos State

Sanwo-Olu joined other notable speakers like the Nigerian Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole; the Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade, and Industry, Kenya, Lee Kinyanjui; President of Zanzibar, His Excellency, Dr Hussain Ali Mwinyi; Enugu State Governor, Dr Peter Mbah; His Excellency, The Rt Hon Alderman Alistair King (Lord Mayor of the City of London), Hon Shirley Ayokor Botchwey (SecretaryGeneral of the Commonwealth), as well as ministers from Gibraltar and Jersey.

Former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo; Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori; His Royal Majesty, Igwe Alfred Achebe; the Obi of Onitsha, Chairman of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote; Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, Cardinal John Olorunfemi Onaiyekan; and Chairman, Zenith Bank, Mr. Jim Ovia, were some of the prominent Nigerians present at that event.

Sanwo-Olu, who underscored the fact that Lagos has the largest seaport in sub–Saharan Africa and the biggest refinery, said, “At the Commonwealth Trade and Investment Summit (CTIS) 2025, I led a governor’s Roundtable focused on unlocking opportunities in Lagos State. The roundtable offered a great platform to share our story and opportunities for investment with the international business community.”

“We have solidified Lagos’ position as Africa’s largest city and a thriving

innovation, finance, and creativity center.

Our aim has always been to drive economic growth and attract investment across key sectors. We have made great strides by fostering a supportive regulatory framework and improving infrastructure.

“A resilient and ambitious private sector is at the heart of Lagos’ growth. We need to continue building the right environment: access to credit, reliable infrastructure, supportive regulations, and public sector responsiveness. Our role as a government is to listen, enable, and support when needed.

With the right partnerships, Lagos will continue to lead in Africa and compete globally”.

On why his government participated in the event, he said, “We have done a lot of heavy liftings before COVID, during COVID, post COVID. There have been a lot of improvements. We have doubled almost the GDP of the state in six years.

“You have seen those improvements in infrastructure, in rail, in health. But there is still a lot of work to be done. There is still a lot of heavy lifting that we need to do, and so that is why we are here.

“We are here to tell the Nigerian story – to tell the clear Lagos story that we are building a shared prosperity for the future. We just don’t want it to be an African mega-model city; we want it to be a city that is functional, that is working, and that is real.”

In 2023, during a Sky News interview, Sanwo-Olu, stated that London held a special place in Lagos’ history and that as the state began its journey as a global financial hub with the setup of the Lagos International Financial Centre council with the mission

In the end, when the overall mathematics is done with the addition, subtraction and multiplication taken out of the equation, whatever is left would be enough for Sanwo-Olu to continue to earn his marks, many years after leaving office.

of positioning the state as Africa’s premier financial centre, it was important to begin the storytelling and investor road show from London.

“Inviting UK investors aligns with our commitment to sustainable growth. Lagos, a dynamic economy, offers a promising landscape for those eager to contribute and thrive. Our focus on development ensures mutual benefit for all involved,” he stated.

This, perhaps, justified why Sanwo-Olu didn’t take kindly to the delivery of a former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, at John Hopkins in the US, which seemed to be a deliberate demarketing of Nigeria, a country he sought to govern. For him, marketing Lagos was inevitably marketing Nigeria, and anything to the contrary was unacceptable in the spirit of patriotism.

Sanwo-Olu has said to whoever cares to listen that, “The GDP of Lagos is bigger than the GDP of Kenya, bigger than Ghana, bigger than Rwanda, and it is bigger than Senegal. So, as a subnational, it’s actually very big in how it stands, in how it sits.

“And it is all of that conversation that we think a lot of people need to know what is happening in Lagos and how we can use the Lagos story to sort of tell the African story and be able to put it where it should really be.”

He said the idea behind the Lagos Financial International Council was just to let the world, starting with London, know what was happening in Lagos, stressing that, “the council will set up strategies where we can hand-hold British companies; foreign direct investors that want to come into Lagos. Let’s know what the red tapes are.

“What are the things they want us to do: regulatory frameworks, legal frameworks; what kind of permit they need to have, what kind of approval they need to have. So, the council is going to set up structures where communication and collaboration will happen.”

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

WEDNESDAY MAY 7, 2025 • T H I S D AY

15

19

T H I S D AY • Wednesday, May 7, 2025

BUSINESSWORLD R A T E S MONEY MARKET

A S

REPO

A T

Group Business Editor Eromosele Abiodun Email oriarehu.eromosele@thisdaylive.com

08056356325

M a y

S & P INDEX

6 ,

2 0 2 5

S & P INDEX

EXCHANGE RATE

OPR

25.34%

CALL

23.25%

INDEX LEVEL

595.26

1/4 to daTE

0.24%

N1,556.05/ 1 US DOLLAR*

OVERNIGHT

25.18%

1-MONTH

21.37%

1-DAY

0.10%

YEAR TO DATE

-10.99%

*AS AT Tues., May 6, 2025

3-MONTH

22.41%

MONTH-TO-DATE

0.24%

At -13.20%, NGX Oil & Gas Index Remain Worst Performing Indicator

Kayode Tokede For closing at -13.20 per cent in the first four months of 2025, the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) Oil & Gas Index has maintained its position as the worst performing indicator on the bourse amid the overall stock market growth in the period under review.

Investors’ return on the NGX has appreciated by 2.79 per cent in the first four months of 2025 but NGX Oil & gas index, NGX Insurance Index and NGX Industrial Index have continued to depreciate as investors trade stocks in the sectors with caution.

THISDAY analysis of trading numbers showed that the NGX Insurance Index and NGX Industrial Index dropped by 6.10 per cent and 5.80 per cent in the first four months of 2025, respectively.

With a return of 170 per cent in 2024, the NGX Oil & Gas Index outperformed the NGX Banking

Index, NGX Consumer Goods Index, among other indices as the best performing index, attributable to reforms by the federal government.

But the index has been on a downturn over the past few years, recording negative returns to shareholders. For instance, in 2018, the NGX oil and gas declined by 8.61 per cent. This indicates that, on average, investors in this sector experienced a negative return of 8.61 per cent for the year.

Similarly, the sector declined by 14.6 per cent in 2019. Also, in 2020 and 2021, the index recorded a loss of 13.03 per cent and 8.73 per cent, respectively.

However, succour came the way of investors as the sector witnessed a turnaround in performance, achieving a gain of 98.3 per cent in 2023.

Despite posting positive 2024 unaudited result and accounts for period ended December 2024,

investors’ negative sentiment have continued to rock the listed Oil & Gas companies.

So far in 2025, the three fundamentals stock in NGX Oil & Gas have seen downward momentum as two appreciated and one trading flat since 2024.

An investigation by THISDAY revealed that Etern Plc, Totalenergies Marketing Nigeria Plc, two listed Oil & Gas companies appreciated in stock price, while Seplat energy Plc has remained flat at N5,700 per share since 2024.

The stock price of Eterna closed April 30, 2025 at N49.95 per share, gaining 106 per cent YtD from N24.30 per share it closed for trading in 2024. On the other hand, Totalenergies Marketing Nigeria moved to N705 per share as of April 30, 2025, up by one per cent when compared to N698 per share it opened for trading in 2025.

On the flipside, MRS Oil Nigeria Plc closed trading April 30, 2025

at N157.50 per share, about 28 per cent decline from N217.80 per share, while the stock price of Oando Plc dropped to N42.05, a decline of 36 per cent from N66 it closed for trading in 2024.

In addition, the stock price of Aradel Holdings Plc fell to N448 per share, a decline of 25.1 per cent from N598 per share, while Conoil Plc closed April 30, 2025 at N331.20 per share, a decline of 14.5 per cent from N387.20 per share it opened for trading this year.

Commenting on Aradel Holdings, Investment Banker & Stockbroker, Mr. Tajudeen Olayinka said, “the company’s stock dropped because the entry price or introduction price was fundamentally hurtful. The price of the stock is going through the usual market correction.”

Other analysts linked the performance of the sector in 13.20 per cent YtD to late filing of 2024 result and accounts and declaring

dividend payout to investors.

On his part, the Vice President, Highcap Securities Limited, Mr. David Adnori, said, “The Oil & Gas sector was propelled in recent times by Oando. Oando’s stock price appreciated significantly and when Aradel Holdings was listed, the price was very high and it drove the index growth in 2024.

“However, since the beginning of the year, Oando and Aradel Holdings have taken a serious beating. The NGX Oil & Gas Index worst performance has to do with listed companies not with the industry itself. Investors’ confidence around Oando dropped and Aradel Holdings could not sustain the high tempo which it migrated from NASA to NGX,“ he added.

The Managing Director, Globalview Capital Limited, Mr. Aruna Kebira, had attributed the downward movement in the NGX Oil & Gas index to

profit-taking in Oando.

He said, “The management of Oando proposed a bonus of one new ordinary share for every 12 existing ordinary shares and other listed companies’ bonuses have a terminal date of 90 days.

The management put a bonus for three years, which is to be credited for 36 months. Investors felt the management of Oando was taking them for granted and opted to take profit.”

He added that the poor performance in the NGX Oil & Gas is based on investors’ sentiment that Conoil, among others may declare a dividend that is not commensurate with their 52-week high.

“Investors believed that the dividend they are expecting from listed Oil & Gas companies cannot be commensurate with their prices.

So they are exiting ahead of the dividend payout. Investors can exit quietly now when the dividends are not declared,” he said.

LASG, BOI, Sterling Bank to Accelerate SMEs’ Access to Finance The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, is set to officially sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Bank of Industry (BOI) and Sterling Bank as part of efforts to boost access to finance for small and medium-scale entrepreneurs across the state.

The signing ceremony, which

is part of activities for the launch of a new initiative tagged Lagos State Access to Finance for SMEs through Co-operatives (LASMECO) programme, is billed to hold tomorrow in Lagos.

According to the Commissioner of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Folashade Ambrose, LASMECO is a first-ofits-kind public-private financing

platform that aims to deliver low-interest, risk-mitigated loans to SMEs across strategic sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, creative industries, manufacturing, and circular economy clusters.

Ambrose explained that the initiative is a game changer that will accelerate access to finance for SME business owners in the state by providing a loan of up to Ten

Million Naira at a 9% interest rate for two to three years. She added that the loans are non-collateralised and will be 50% guaranteed by Sterling Bank.

She disclosed that the Access to Finance for SMEs initiative, which is to be launched by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at the event, would be witnessed by key stakeholders in both public

and private sectors, including Managing Director, Bank of Industry (BOI), Olasupo Olusi, Managing Director, Sterling Bank Plc, Abubakar Suleiman, President, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Dr. Francis Meshioye and President, Lagos Chambers of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Gabriel Idahosa.

During the launch, the

Honourable Commissioner will sign the MoU on behalf of the state government, while the Managing Director of the Bank of Industry will do same for the bank.

The programme’s launch marks a significant milestone in Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES+ economic transformation agenda and pathway to industrial inclusiveness in Lagos State.

M a r k e t d ata A s at T u e s d ay, M ay 6 , 2 0 2 5

BONDS

Description Price Yield Change Updated Time (%) ^16.2884 17May 95.83 19.00 0.01 20256, MAR-2027 May 6, ^19.94 20101.12 19.14 -0.01 2025 MAR-2027 ^13.98 23May 6, 88.97 19.22 0.01 2025 FEB-2028 ^21.00 20May 6, 104.32 18.94 0.00 2025 MAR-2028 ^14.55 26May 6, 86.82 19.46 0.00 2025 APR-2029

Maturity

NTB 5-Jun25 NTB 10-Jul25 NTB 7-Aug25 NTB 4-Sep25 NTB 9-Oct25

BILLS

Discount Yield

CPs

Change (%) Updated Time

Maturity

17.95

18.21

May 6, -0.01 2025

17.12

17.66

May 6, -0.01 2025

17.67

18.50

May 6, -0.01 2025

18.55

19.77

May 6, -0.01 2025

19.61

May 6, -0.01 2025

TGIF CP II 3-JUN-25 MCIL CP II 16-JUL-25 JVIL CP XI 20-JUN-25 FAST CP VI 11-AUG-25 MTNN CP XII 30-JUL-25

18.10

Discount Yield 26.09

26.62

21.53

22.47

25.65

26.49

24.63

26.35

21.72

22.88

CLEARED NAIRA-SETTLED NDFS Change (%)

Updated Time

May 6, -0.01 2025 May 6, 0.00 2025 May 6, 0.00 2025 May 6, 0.00 2025 May 6, 0.00 2025

Contract Current Tenor Contract Rate ($/₦) (Month) NGUS MAY 13M – 27 2026 NGUS JUN 14M – 24 2026 NGUS JUL 15M – 29 2026 NGUS AUG 16M – 26 2026 NGUS SEP 17M – 30 2026

Updated Time

May 6, 2025 May 6, 2025 May 6, 2025 May 6, 2025 May 6, 2025

20

Wednesday, May 7, 2025 • T H I S D AY

BUSINESSWORLD

MINING

Digging Deeper: The Case for Responsible Mining in Africa Oluchi Chibuzor stresses the need for a deliberate effort to build mining models that consider long-term sustainability as part of operating logic, not as an afterthought

Arial view of SROL, Osun State

B

y all accounts, mining remains one of the most consequential economic activities on the African continent. From precious metals buried deep beneath Nigeria’s hills to vast cobalt deposits that power the global energy transition, the continent sits atop extraordinary mineral wealth. Yet with this abundance comes a responsibility—a responsibility that extends to the land, water, air, and perhaps most importantly, the communities surrounding every mine site.

In recent years, the discourse around responsible and sustainable mining has gained momentum, but practice often lags behind principle. Too many mining operations, particularly in emerging economies, are still synonymous with environmental degradation, community displacement, and opaque governance. That’s why it’s important to not only recognise the mines charting a different course—but to study them closely, so their lessons can inform a better standard for the industry.

In Osun State, Nigeria, the operations of Segilola Resources Operating Limited (SROL) offer a compelling case study. As operators of the country’s first large-scale gold mine, Segilola has had to balance modern extraction techniques with a clear-eyed understanding of its environmental and social footprint. Their usage of compressed natural gas (CNG) generators as the main power supply helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 25% and is part of Segilola Resources Operating Limited (SROL)’s broader ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) strategy. The mine utilises seven 1.2 MW CNG generators, with five in operation and two as standby, to power the processing plant. While diesel generators are also used for construction and as backup power, CNG is the primary fuel source for the main power supply.

This kind of contextual intelligence is not yet widespread across Africa’s mining

belt, but it is catching on. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Kamoa-Kakula copper project has made headlines not only for its resource potential but for its relatively low carbon emissions compared to other largescale copper producers. The joint venture, which includes Canadian company Ivanhoe Mines, has incorporated hydropower into its energy mix—an important step in decoupling mining activity from fossil fuels. Similarly, in Ghana, Newmont’s Ahafo mine has invested heavily in environmental monitoring and community partnerships. The mine funds independent environmental assessments, supports sustainable agriculture projects in host communities, and has instituted grievance mechanisms to ensure that local voices are not only heard but respected.

What unites these examples is not perfection but intent—a deliberate effort to build mining models that consider long-term sustainability as

part of their operating logic, not as an afterthought.

For instance, rather than relying solely on reactive measures, Segilola proactively waters haulage routes and applies molasses to bind loose soil and suppress airborne particles. It is a simple but effective innovation, rooted in both science and sensitivity.

With global demand for critical minerals surging, the pressure to exploit deposits quickly and cheaply is immense. But this moment also presents an opportunity: to build a mining ethos that is efficient without being exploitative, profitable without being predatory. Companies like Segilola Resources Operating Limited, Kamoa-Kakula, and Newmont are showing what is possible when operations are guided not just by ore grades and returns, but by the principles of equity and environmental care.

What comes out of the ground will always matter. But how we take it out—and who we become in the process—matters just as much.

Tariffs Without Power: The Broken Promise of Electricity Reforms in Nigeria Nick Agule

Why Telecoms Privatisation Succeeded While Power Sector Privatisation Struggles in Nigeria

B

efore 2001, Nigeria had just 500,000 telephone lines serving over 100 million people. The demand far outstripped supply, making access to phones expensive and exclusive. Racketeering was rampant, and even a former Minister of Telecommunications implied that “telephones were not for the poor.”

That narrative changed dramatically in 2001 when the federal government liberalised the telecoms sector.

Private operators were licensed and, recognising the massive demand, invested aggressively to expand the network. Since then, over $100 billion has been invested, and active telephone lines have skyrocketed from half a million to over 220 million today. Importantly, these operators did not wait for cost-reflective tariffs to invest—they thrived on volume, not price. The result?

Nigerians now pay much less for telecommunications than during the NITEL era, with significantly better availability and service.

Power Sector Privatisation: A Different Story

In 2013, the federal government privatised the electricity sector, selling off generation companies (GENCOs) and distribution companies (DISCOs) to private investors.

However, it retained ownership of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN). Although transmission operations were briefly handed to Manitoba Hydro International (Canada), this was later reversed.

At the time of privatisation, Nigeria generated about 6,000 megawatts of electricity. Twelve years later, that number has declined, hovering between 3,000–5,000 megawatts. In stark contrast to telecoms, electricity supply has worsened post-privatisation.

Why Did Power Sector Privatisation Fail?

The main difference lies in investment. While telecoms companies poured billions into infrastructure, power sector operators did not. Electricity output has declined rather than increased. With proper investment, Nigeria could have been generating 25,000 megawatts or more

by now—thus reducing tariffs and improving availability. By global rating, 1,000 megawatts is to serve one million people therefore Nigeria with over 200 million people is expected to be supplying 200,000 megawatts but currently doing only 5,000 megawatts. Rather than committing billions of dollars to expand supply and tap into the massive power deficit, power sector companies have focused primarily on tariff increases.

So why haven’t the power companies invested?

The Capital Problem Most of the DISCOs simply lack the capital.

A review of their filings at the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) shows that the total share capital of all 11 DISCOs is less than N1 billion—about $583,000. Below is a breakdown of their capital: DISCO

Capital Capital (N) (USD*)

1

Abuja

N15m

$10,000

2

Benin

N5m

$4,000

3

Eko

N200m $140,000

4

Enugu

N10m

$7,000

5

Ibadan

N10m

$7,000

6

Ikeja

N100m $70,000

7

Jos

N500m $350,000

8

Kaduna

N10m

$7,000

9

Kano

N10m

$7,000

10 P’Harcourt N10m

$7,000

11 Yola

$4,000

N5m

*USD values are approximated

Rising Costs, Static Supply

Despite declining output, electricity costs have risen sharply. Why? 1. Loan Repayments: To pay for the licences in 2013, DISCOs borrowed nearly $1.5 billion at an exchange rate of ₦155/$1. With today’s

Adelabu rate around N1,500/$1, they now face over N2.25 trillion in loan repayments, up from N232.5 billion. These escalating costs from foreign exchange losses are being passed to consumers without any increase in power supply.

2. Inefficient Structure: Before privatisation, PHCN (formerly NEPA) was the sole provider of 6,000 megawatts. Today, there are 46 entities—33 GENCOs, 11 DISCOs, 1 TCN, and 1 NBET—yet they collectively generate less electricity than PHCN did. Consumers now are forced to bear the cost of operating this bloated structure with high tariffs to generate enough revenues to meet these costs from only 5,000 megawatts!

Consumers have gone from paying for one Managing Director under NEPA to footing the bill for 46 Managing Directors across the power sector—yet they’re receiving even less electricity than before. The system is clearly broken.

A Minister Serving the Companies, Not the People?

The current Minister of Power appears aligned with industry operators, pushing for tariff hikes instead of enforcing investment. In 2023, he approved

a 250 per cent increase for Band A customers (from N65/ kWh to N225/kWh)—all without any new generation, transmission and distribution capacity. Despite supplying no more than a 5 per cent increase in electricity, the power sector cashed in with a 70 per cent revenue hike, according to the Minister’s own report. There are indications that the Minister may soon approve another round of tariff increases, still based on the same stagnant 5,000 megawatts of electricity supply! Even worse, while consumers pay higher tariffs, they are still expected to buy their own meters, transformers, and pay for repairs.

What Should the Minister Do?

To truly serve Nigerians, the Minister must refocus on reform, not liquidity. Here’s how: 1. Distribution Reform • Require DISCOs to invest in infrastructure, just like telecom companies did.

• In telecoms: Licence → $285m; Investment → $100bn; Success through scale.

• In power: Licence → $100m; Investment → Almost none; Failure due to stagnation.

The story continues online on

www.thisdaylive.com

21

T H I S D AY • Wednesday, May 7, 2025

BUSINESSWORLD

Insurance

Of NAICOM Failure and Policy Holders’ Recourse to Vudu

As policy holders consider the National Insurance Commission a weak for its failure to enforce payment of claims, Ebere Nwoji writes that annuitants now resort to consulting their local deity for vengeance against those who reneged on terms of agreement

R

ecent media reports indicating that annuity holders with the embattled African Alliance Insurance Company and others now resort to consulting their local deities to speak for them after seven months of unpaid annuity arrears, have been interpreted by the members of the insuring public as lack of public confidence on the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) and sign of weakness on the part of the commission which is the regulator of insurance industry.

THISDAY learnt that a group of Nigerians tagged, “Concerned Citizens,” have implored sorrowing annuitants of African Alliance Insurance Plc to take their unpaid seven months pension benefits to Oba Lesekese meaning God Almighty as against sango and obakoso, their local deities.

They made the appeal while reacting to the report by an online medium, Inspenonline quoting the annuitants as saying that Sango and Obakoso, their local deity would fight on their behalf. But that in a counter reaction some members of the insuring public and their fellow retirees have advised them to rather call on Oba Lesekese – God Almighty as the only one that could help them out of their present plights.

Oba Lesekese is the title of a gospel song recently released by a local gospel musician popularly known as Chuxudo and it means God who is prompt in solving problems.

Annuitants in a bit to express their frustration, have resolved to report the company to deities such as sango and obakoso.

Some of their expressions which they displayed to the public read, “After seven months of nonpayment of my annuity, then let nobody blame me if l report AAI & collaborators to “Sango, Obakoso for immediate sanction.

“I don’t want or request for two months payments, but full payments of the arrears of seven months from August 2024 to March 2025,” one of the victims stated.

Another aggrieved annuitant said, “May all the deities in Yorubaland, get ready to act for my rights to get paid when due and AA insurance and its collaborators have denied me that agreement since last year August, 2024 till today.

“Sango, Obatala, Obanta, Agemo and others get ready for action,” said the aggrieved annuitants.

These complainants are retirees who purchased life annuity contracts from one of the life insurance companies African Alliance Insurance being regulated by NAICOM.

Annuity and PRA2014

An annuity is a written contract typically between a retiring worker and a life insurance company in which the insurance company makes a series of regularly spaced payments to the retiree in return for a premium or premiums he has paid.

It is a financial product that offers a guaranteed income stream and is usually bought by retirees. The accumulation phase is the first stage of an annuity during which investors fund the product with a lump-sum payment or periodic payments.

Section 7(1)(c) of the Pension Reform Act 2014 states that, “Retirees can use the balance in their Retirement Savings Account (RSA) to purchase an annuity for life from a Life Insurance Company licensed by Insurance NAICOM. This annuity would provide monthly or quarterly payments to the retired worker. This specific section of the Act allows retirees to choose a life annuity as a retirement benefit option. The retirees use the funds accumulated in their RSA to purchase the annuity. The annuity must be purchased from a company licensed by NAICOM. Upon this agreement the annuity will provide a regular stream of income

to the retiree through regular payments by the life insurance company.”

Besides the annuity, retirees can also choose to receive their periodic payment through programmed withdrawals from their RSA held by their chosen pension fund administrator PFA. But the lamenting retirees are those who in line with the Pension Reform Act 2014 choose to use their hard-earned lump sum retirement benefits to purchase annuity plan with the African Alliance.

Beginning of AAI problem

The life underwriting firm started showing signs of insolvency around October 2023 when it failed to pay one OKeke Nkemjika, a Lagos resident who subscribed to a policy contribution with the company in 2015. The policy was meant to mature in 2023 but when Okeke requested his surrender value, the insurance firm failed to fulfil its end of the contract.

By July 2024, many retirees who purchased annuity from African Alliance started complaining about unpaid arrears of annuity while the company kept making promises. Many of them complained to NAICOM but the commission kept dialoguing with the company until there was arrears of unpaid annuity before it withdrew its operating license.

This was highly criticised by the insuring public who said the commission would have swung into action before the accumulation of the arrears of annuity.

Duties of NAICOM

By its official regulatory functions, NAICOM was established to regulation and supervise insurance firms.

NAICOM established standards for the conduct of insurance business, approves premium rates, and regulates transactions between insurers and reinsurers.

The commission was also meant to protect Policyholders, beneficiaries, and third parties to insurance contracts. NAICOM ensures compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, including capital adequacy, sound management practices, and the protection of policyholders.

Its actions contribute to the financial stability of the insurance industry, ensuring that insurance companies operate responsibly and prudently.

In essence, NAICOM acts as a central authority for the Nigerian insurance sector, ensuring its stability, protecting consumers, and fostering a vibrant and innovative industry.

Public criticism against NAICOM

But contrary to this, the commission has often been accused of being passive to one of its function which is the protection of policy holders. Analysts said the commission has over the years been paying lip service to this as when an insurance firm is showing signs of insolvency, the commission would wait until the company is dead before it would swing into action.

The commission received a lot of criticism in this regard from victims of the current African Alliance insolvency status as some regretted that if the commission had acted timely, their condition wouldn’t have deteriorated to the extent that it has gone now.

Industry critics said this lack of prompt action by the commission did not start from the tenure of the present commissioner but dates back to the days of Sunday Thomas, Fola Daniel. They cited examples of companies like Standard Alliance Insurance Plc, Niger Insurance, Investment and Allied insurance to mention but few.

The story continues online on

www.thisdaylive.com

22

T H I S D AY •WEDNESDay, MAY 7, 2025

business/MOnEYGUIDE

AXA Mansard Expresses Commitment to Financial Empowerment of Women Ebere Nwoji AXA Mansard Investments Limited, has expressed its commitment to continue to empower women financially in the country. The company said this at the third edition of its flagship webinar series with the theme, “Achieve Much More,” held virtually.

The company said the special Women’s Day edition, with the them, “Women’s Wealth: How to Start from Where You Are,” was designed to equip Nigerian women with practical knowledge and tools for achieving financial security regardless of their life stage or income level. The virtual session featured financial advisor and Chief Executive Officer of MoneyStart, Mrs. Ibi Ibru, as the guest speaker.

A content creator and influencer in the personal finance space, Ibru shared actionable strategies for saving, diversifying income, and getting started

with investing—even with minimal capital. Throughout the session, participants learned how to plan and adjust their finances across different life phases – singlehood, relationships, marriage, and parenting.

The company said the session demystified a range of investment vehicles, from traditional savings to beginner-friendly options in the Nigerian financial landscape, helping women identify how to take control of their journeys towards financial freedom.

Speaking about the initiative, Chief Marketing Officer AXA Mansard Investment, Mrs. Adebola Surakat, emphasised on the company’s dedication to fostering a financially literate population She said, “At AXA Mansard, we strongly believe that financial education is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. Empowering women with financial knowledge not only transform individual lives, but strengthens families,

communities, and the broader economy. This webinar reflects our ongoing commitment to ensuring all Nigerians—regardless of gender, income, or background, have access to the tools they need to make informed financial decisions.”

She said Achieve Much More’ webinar series was part of AXA Mansard Investments’ broader efforts to provide accessible financial education through interactive sessions, expert-led discussions, and simplified investment tools tailored to everyday Nigerians.

“As 2025 progresses, AXA Mansard Investments remains dedicated to its mission of advancing financial literacy and supporting Nigerians on their journey to financial independence. By placing even greater emphasis on educating the public about smart money habits, we aim to empower more Nigerians to take charge of their financial future,” Surakat stated.

Okobi, Otaigbe, Global Leaders to Discuss Sustainable Finance at UNEP FI’s Roundtable As part of its continued commitment to sustainability, Access Holdings Plc will be amongst the leading participants in the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI) Regional Roundtable on Sustainable Finance for Africa and Middle East.

Taking place from today in Marrakech, Morocco, the event will bring together regulators, policymakers, and key stakeholders from the financial sector to discuss and shape critical sustainability issues, including climate mitigation and adaptation, nature-positive finance, just transition and financial inclusion, carbon finance, among others.

In a statement, Access Bank said its Chief Brand and Communica-

tions Officer of Access Holdings, Amaechi Okobi; Group Head of Credit Administration, Governance & Project Monitoring, Edmund Otaigbe and Group Head of Products and Segments, Njideka Esomeju will be contributing insights from their extensive experience in driving sustainability within the financial sector.

“Among the discussions will be sessions dedicated to accelerating the transition of real economy sectors towards sustainability, addressing climate risks, and ensuring financial inclusion.

One of the focal points will be how financial institutions can support climate adaptation and resilience, particularly in vulnerable sectors across Africa and the Middle East. The event

will further tackle the challenge of unlocking private finance for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), exploring innovative ways to align capital flows with regional sustainability needs.

“Other high-level dialogues will explore regional collaboration to support sustainability goals, advancing action on climate adaptation, and the regulatory developments promoting sustainable finance across the region. Panels will focus on topics such as financing and insuring MSMEs for climate resilience and fostering an inclusive transition by ensuring that vulnerable communities and underserved populations are not left behind in the push for green growth,” it said.

LivingTrust Mortgage Bank Plc Declares N981.20m Profit Chinedu Eze LivingTrust Mortgage Bank Plc has declared a profit ₦981.2 million, one of the highest in the Bank’s history.

This is according to its Audited Financial Statement for the year ended December 31, 2024.

In an increasingly challenging macroeconomic environment, marked by inflationary pressures, exchange rate volatility, and tighter regulatory oversight, the bank’s management said the record profit stands as a testament to its strategic resilience.

According to the bank’s board and management team,

LivingTrust has demonstrated commendable financial stewardship, balancing risk, maintaining asset quality and driving profitability with a clear long-term view. The bank said it grew its deposit by 66 per cent signifying the highest volume growth in the Bank’s history to N15.19 billion from N9.14 billion the previous year while total asset of the Bank increased to N24.04 billion, a 35 per cent growth over N17.79 billion posted in 2023.

It reported a 29.97 per cent increase in gross earnings for the year ended December 31, 2024, amounting to N3.75 billion, compared to N2.89 billion in the same period of 2023.

The bank’s record also shows

a 47.40 per cent rise in Profit Before Tax, which increased to N981.20 million from N665.65 million in 2023. Profit After Tax grew by 38.87 per cent to N789.14 million, up from N568.27 million in the prior year.

The earnings per share for the period increased by 31.52 per cent to 15.78 kobo, from 11.37 kobo in 2023.

Beyond the numbers, the management said the profit rewards the loyalty of the bank’s esteemed customers and patience of shareholders who have stood by the bank through cycles of growth, strategic clarity, disciplined execution and unwavering dedication to value creation.

Sanlam Celebrates Sales Champions at Annual Awards Life insurer, Sanlam Life Insurance Nigeria Limited, celebrated her outstanding field force at a colourful gala held recently at the ancient city of Benin. The event, christened The Retail Awards Competition (TRAC) and MD/ CEO Ember Awards, has held annually for 12 unbroken years, a firm demonstration of the company’s unstinting commitment to rewarding excellence amongst the sales champions.

At the event, the Benin Area was named the overall best Financial Advisor for the second year in a row while Benin/Edo Area also won the Best Area for the second time, back-to-back.

Temitope Ajiboye was named the overall best Annuity Manager.

Speaking on the Awards, MD/CEO, Sanlam Life Insurance Nigeria Limited, Tunde Mimiko commended the outstanding work of the

retail force. He charged them to do more while promising that the company would do much more to aid their sales drive at every point in time.

“Many are called, few are chosen; you, the few, have been outstanding and your efforts are being rewarded today.

Thank you for all you do, not just for our dear company, but also for driving financial inclusion and deepening insurance penetration in Nigeria,” he stated.

MARKET INDICATORS MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS (MILLION NAIRA) Month

NOVEMBER

Money Supply (M3)

108,966,480.44

-- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors

19,796.18

Money Supply (M2)

108,946,684.26 72,672,756.90

-- Narrow Money (M1)

36,273,927.36

---- Currency Outside Banks

4,652,527.74

---- Demand Deposits

31,621,399.62

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

17,347,112.78

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

91,619,367.66

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

115,576,757.67

---- Credit to Government (Net)

39,616,629.91

---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA

0.00

---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA)

0.00

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

75,960,127.77

--Other Assets Net

12,147,461.96

Reserve Money (Base Money)

30,871,571.25

--Currency in Circulation

4,878,125.22

--Banks Reserves

25,993,446.02

--Special Intervention Reserves

278,860.37 • Source - CBN

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) Month

November

Inter-Bank Call Rate

28.88

Minimum Rediscount Rate (MRR) Monetary Policy Rate (MPR)

27.50

Treasury Bill Rate

18.00

Savings Deposit Rate

6.56

1 Month Deposit Rate

8.48

3 Months Deposit Rate

9.53

6 Months Deposit Rate

12.13

12 Months Deposit Rate

14.22

Prime Lending rate

18.39

Maximum Lending Rate

31.06

NSE

NSE MARKET INDEX % Change

CAP

0.75%(52%YoY)

Index

0.9% (29%Y/D) • Monetary Policy Rate - 27.50%

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE As At 6TH JANUARY , 2025

The price of OPEC basket of twelve crudes stood at $76.18 a barrel on Monday, compared with $75.89 the previous Friday, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations.

The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

23

T H I S D AY •WEDNESDay, MAY 7, 2025

mARKET NEWS

Market Cap Adds N1.05trn in One-day on Demand for ETI, Others Kayode Tokede

The stock market section of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) yesterday sustained its bullish sentiment by N1.05 trillion as investors continued to show strong interest in Ecobank Transnational Incorporated Plc (gained 10 per cent) and 41 other large-cap stocks.

The All Share Index (ASI) gained by 1,662.60 points,

representing a growth of 1.56 per cent to close at 108,361.10 points basis with the Monthto-Date and Year-to-Date returns settling at +2.6per cent and +5.3per cent, respectively.

Also, market capitalisation gained N1.05 trillion to close at N68.105 trillion.

Market breadth remained positive, with 42 gainers outpacing 25 decliners. Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI), Northern Nigeria Flour

P R I C E S MaiN Board

F O R

DEALS

Mills (NNFM) and Nestle Nigeria recorded the highest price gain of 10 per cent each to close at N25.85, N82.50 and N1,210.00 respectively, per share.

Beta Glass followed with a gain of 9.98 per cent to close at N132.80, while Austin Laz & Company up by 9.94 per cent to close at N1.88, per share.

On the other hand, Guinea Insurance led the losers’ chart by 8.70 per cent to close at

S E C U R I T I E S

Market Price

quantity traded

value traded ( N )

63 kobo, per share. DAAR Communications followed with a decline of 6.78 per cent to close at 55 kobo, while VFD Group declined by 6.59 per cent to close at N17.00, per share.

Wapic Insurance depreciated by 6.07 per cent to close at N2.01, while Regency Alliance Insurance declined by 4.69 per cent to close at 61 kobo, per share.

Also, the total volume traded

T R A D E D MaiN Board

declined by 16.45 per cent to 475.459 million units, valued at N13.899 billion, and exchanged in 17,575 deals. Transactions in the shares of Access Holdings topped the activity chart with 103.915 million shares valued at N2.202 billion. Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) followed with 37.985 million shares worth N2.423 billion, while United Bank for Africa (UBA) traded 30.731 million shares valued at N1.039 billion.

A S O F

Sterling Financial Holdings Company traded 27.177 million shares valued at N147.244 million, while enith Bank sold 26.184 million shares worth N1.235 billion.

On market outlook, Afrinvest Limited said “we expect the domestic bourse to sustain gains, driven by market reassessment of opportunities on the back of the largely impressive Q1 2025 earnings performance.”

m ay / 0 6 / 2 5 DEALS

Market Price

quantity traded

value traded ( N)

24

FEatures

T H I S D AY •WEDNESDay, MAY 7, 2025

Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi Email chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com, Tel: 07010510430

Gov. Mutfwang: Trudging on amidst Recurrent Distractions Polycarp Auta

I

n the run up to the 2023 general elections, political analysts identified Mr Caleb Mutfwang, a contestant to the Plateau governorship seat, as one candidate that was sure of victory.

They hinged such optimism on the affection the lawyer enjoyed among Plateau residents long before he picked the ticket of his political party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Such popularity was amply demonstrated when he returned from Abuja after collecting his party's flag.

The crowd that came to welcome him at the Heipang Airport was so massive that his opponents feared an imminent defeat.

And, true to the fears, Mutfwang easily won the election and was sworn in on May 29, 2023.

The battle for the seat was to continue at the courts with the Supreme Court finally declaring him winner in January 2024.

Mutfwang quickly settled into governance, moving with the speed of a leader ready to fulfil his contract with the people.

The first challenge was the high debt profile and the decay in the state's civil service.

Civil servants were already on strike as they were owed several months’ salaries. The outstanding salaries and pension arrears were paid and the workers returned to work.

Available records also show that the government has also paid gratuities and death benefits dating back to 1986.

The minimum monthly pension has also been increased from N5,000 to N20,000, with the payment now more regular.

Attention has also been paid to transportation.

According to Mutfwang, the goal is to "invigorate Plateau economy and draw investors to its vast potential".

In this respect, Jos intra-city bus service has been launched, easing movement across the capital.

In the first phase launched on May 7, 2024, 15 busses were inaugurated with more coming on board as the demand kept rising while more routes are getting covered.

To boost inter-state transport services, 15 busses have been added to the Plateau Express Ltd, while 20 Toyota Sienna vehicles have been acquired to ply the Jos-Abuja route.

The governor has also ratified a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Valuejets Airline for thrice-weekly flights to Jos. Government has also brokered a deal with the Nigerian Railway Corporation to rejuvenate the dormant rail transport and mitigate the impact of fuel subsidy removal on the populace.

The envisaged train service is anticipated to invigorate economic activities, attract investments, bolster commerce, enhance tourism and create direct and indirect jobs.

The health sector is also being revitalized with the Plateau State Drugs and Medical Commodities Agency (PS-DMCMA), equipped to procure, store and distribute drugs and medical supplies in state-run medical outfits.

The goal, Mutfwang says, is to ensure that essential medications are available, accessible, and affordable.

Until recently, Plateau was celebrated as one of Nigeria's cleanest states, making it a choice destination for tourists.

The Mutfwang administration found a changed situation with Jos grappling with heaps of refuse and powerful stenches oozing from all angles.

To tackle the menace, government has declared a state of emergency on the environment with refuse disposal trucks evacuating waste in Jos/ Bukuru metropolis and beyond.

The reintroduction of the monthly sanitation programme, supervised by the Governor, has led to significant improvements and the streets are noticeably cleaner.

The monthly stipend of street cleaners in Jos has also been reviewed from N8,000 to N15, 000 to encourage them to put in their best.

To improve road network across the state, government has initiated significant projects within the Jos/Bukuru Metropolis and across the 17 Local Governments.

The administration has rehabilitated a network of roads constructed more than 40 years ago and had deteriorated into hazardous conditions.

It has also completed the flyover bridge linking NASCO and Abattoir communities. This project is significant as it eases traffic within the capital city.

The construction of a 6.5km road at Angwan Rogo, with a bridge to Hawan Idi/Ali Kazaure, and a 12.1km road covering Amma Street to Apata, is another critical project.

Other critical road projects executed are the Sabon Barki-Building road, the Tudun Wada-Mado-

Gov. Mutfwang Jabong road, among many others across the state, turning Plateau into a construction site.

In the agricultural sector, the state has distributed N3.6 billion worth of fertilizer to bolster dry-season farming efforts.

The Plateau Agricultural Development Programme (PADP), has also launched coconut and oil palm plantations to further diversify and strengthen the state's agro-forestry sector, while 500 farmers specializing in maize, rice and wheat value chains, have been given assorted seeds to boost yields.

PADP has also procured 200 tractors, while 300 tractors belonging to ASTC were revamped and put to use.

Piggery farmers in Jos South and Langtang North LGAs, who were hit by the 2022 floods, have been assisted to restart.

Mutfwang has carried women and children along in his vision, beginning with the nomination of Mrs Josephine Piyo as Deputy Governor.

So far, the women affairs ministry has trained 102 widows on various skills at the Mangu Centre and equipped them with starter packs to start their businesses.

In the area of education, the Governor has reduced tuition fees by 50% for Plateau natives enrolled in state-owned tertiary institutions.

Additionally, there has been a 300% increase in scholarship award for Plateau students pursuing higher education across Nigeria.

Government has also addressed the issue of unpaid salaries for ad hoc staff, some of whom had been on that status for several years.

Worried by the destructive malarial menace, the State Malaria Elimination Programme (SMEP), has secured 2,998,650 Insecticide Treated Nets (ITNs) for distribution across households.

The Mutfwang leadership has also boosted the capacity of the Plateau Hospital, Jos, with 22 medical consultants across various specialities, while its long-abandoned laboratory complex had been completed and equipment worth N2 billion fitted into it.

In the area of primary education, government has renovated and constructed 148 classrooms and dug boreholes in schools to make the learning environment conducive.

A lot has also been sunk into water supply with N1.3 billion spent to procure assorted Water Treatment Chemicals while N700 million went into settling liabilities incurred on similar items by previous administrations.

INCLUSIVE GOVERNANCE In pursuing his dream of a greater Plateau, Mutfwang has shown no discrimination either on the basis of religion, tribe or political leanings.

Two commissioners - Bashir Lawandi in water resources and energy, and Mohammed Nyalum of commerce - for instance, are Muslims.

He also has many Special Advisers, Special Assistants and top aides that are Muslims and is on record as sponsoring the highest number of Muslims to Hajj in 2023.

Areas with Muslims as residents have also enjoyed many development projects, a privilege that has attracted speedy growth to the areas.

SECURITY CONCERNS But, as Mutfwang speedily moves to build a prosperous Plateau, a recurrent distraction - insecurity - is slowing down the steam and blurring his focus.

Indeed, the challenge of insecurity has, for long, been the lot of Plateau residents.

When Mutfwang came in, he visited camps where Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) are kept in Riyom, Mangu and Bokkos Local Government Areas, to asses the situation.

Few weeks before he was sworn in, his own Mangu Local Government Area came under severe attack on May 15, 2023.

The attacks claimed a lot of lives and appeared to give him a signal that evil was lurking.

The violence subsided in the later part of 2023, 2024 and the first quarter of 2025, but resumed in the last few weeks with Bokkos, Bassa, Mangu, Barkin-Ladi and Riyom as the targets.

A distraught Mutfwang has since been running from pillar to post to secure his people.

He has made it a duty to visit every hit community to commiserate with victims and caution against reprisal attacks.

He has severally met with President Bola Tinubu, Chief of Defense Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, and other top security officials to work out ways to tackle the menace.

At first, it appeared that the efforts had yielded fruits with both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies adopted to restore peace, but the resurgence of hostilities has shown that more needs to be done.

To tackle the violence, the Governor has reactivated the hitherto dormant state-owned security outfit —Operation Rainbow.

The outfit is expected to mobilise 600 personnel, chosen from across the local governments, to secure the state.

Its personnel shall be expected to use the knowledge of their communities to provide effective security, focusing on intelligence gathering and the relay of early warning signals.

The administration has also established the State Security and Information Centre where citizens can report security concerns via a toll-free line. This centre enables the government to receive timely information on pressing security issues in rural communities.

But, as the governor battles to secure

the state, analysts fear that the situation would worsen if all stakeholders are not united to end the crisis.

They particularly decried a situation where politicians seek to make political capital out of the bloodshed and feared that desperate politicians could even stock the fire of violence to put the governor on the defence.

Worried by the recurring attacks on the rural communities, President Tinubu has directed security agencies to fully mobilise all resources to end the bloodshed.

He has also promised to fully support measures that could restore normalcy.

Former Plateau governor Jonah Jang has also decried the worsening insecurity in Plateau, urging everyone to support the Governor to bring peace.

Jang said that resolving the crises and restoring peace to Plateau was not a matter the governor could handle alone.

“The attacks in Plateau are not mere communal disputes; they are perpetrated by a group with a specific agenda “It is crucial for the President to understand the true nature of these attacks in order to address them effectively,” Jang said.

Jang advised Tinubu to convene an expanded meeting with community leaders to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the situation in Plateau.

He said that such a meeting would provide a platform for stakeholders to share their insights and experiences, enabling the President to develop a more informed approach to tackling the problem.

Jang urged the people of Plateau to remain strong and resist any attempt to destroy their state.

He urged the people to love everyone around them, but admonished them to "always remain alert so as to protect the state from invaders".

Retired Admiral Bitrus Atukum, former Plateau Military Administrator, has spoken in the same vein and urged President Tinubu to give security agencies "specific instructions" to flush out miscreants invading Plateau rural communities.

Atukum, who ruled Plateau from 1984 to 1985, said that the attacks were constituting a "huge economic sabotage".

"We are now in the farming season; if the attacks continue, farmers won't go to the farm. That will lead to hunger and poverty," he fumed.

On his part, Mutfwang has consistently rehashed what his predecessors had always said - that the violence is targeted at land grabbing - vowing, however, that no Plateau land shall be ceded to anyone.

While lamenting that many communities had been seized by the invaders, the Governor has promised to ensure that all displaced people return to their ancestral lands.

Analysts believe that the governor's current consultations will bring peace to the state and ward off recurrent distractions obstructing his focus toward building a greater Plateau.

•Auta writes for the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

25

T H I S D AY • Wednesday MAY 7, 2025

Education

Group Demands OOU Pharmacy Students Bemoan Delayed Reversal of Nigeria Induction, as Dean Seeks Patience Maritime University’s Key Appointments Uchechukwu Nnaike

Following the controversy that trailed the appointment of three principal officers at the Nigeria Maritime University (NMU), Okerenkoko, Delta State by its governing council, critics have called for the reversal of the appointments.

More than three weeks after the appointment, the allegations of procedural breaches and ethnic bias are yet to ebb, just as calls for its reversal have continued to gather momentum within and outside the university.

Those appointed were Dr. Paul Bebenimibo as Registrar, Abduldayan Fatimah Jibril as University Librarian, and Gbe Tamaraudebaemi Justin as Bursar.

Many stakeholders insisted that the process that led to the appointment of the principal officers was at variance with provisions of the federal character principles and university recruitment standards.

The appointments were made during NMU 21st governing council on April 15, 2025, in Warri, with an eight-member selection panel led by Mr. Abdullahi Nedanda Bardi, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council.

Other members included Prof. Emmanuel Adigio, Hon. Benedict Aguele, Mr. Freeman Kasa, Professor Chris Orubu, Professor Bariweni Perekibina, Mr. Anthony Dirisu, and Mrs. Helen Wang, who represented the Federal Ministry of Education.

It was alleged by those familiar with the process that Wang compromised her role and failed to uphold the integrity expected of her as a representative of the ministry.

They said that the appointments did not reflect the equitable representation mandated by the Federal Character Commission (FCC), which among other statutory roles and responsibilities upholds

Nigeria’s federal character policy, and were instead driven by ethnic favouritism.

They also pointed to the fact that the appointment of Bebenimibo, an academic and former head of department at Delta State University, Abraka to the non-academic role of registrar, traditionally reserved for seasoned university administrators who have attained the rank of Principal Assistant Registrar or higher is flawed.

An advocacy group ‘Let The Right Thing Be Done Advocates’ described the process as a “mockery of due process,” blaming the selection panel for what they termed a “shoddy job.”

The group said, “How does a lecturer become registrar in a federal university without fulfilling the administrative criteria? This is not just unprofessional. It is an aberration. The selection committee failed its duty and Mrs. Wang, who should have upheld the Federal Ministry of Education’s position on transparency and merit, was unfortunately compromised. This betrayal casts a long shadow on the process.”

In a swift reaction, the prochancellor maintained that due process was followed and the appointments were in line with NMU’s statutes.

He dismissed the criticisms as politically motivated and aimed at discrediting the council’s work.

However, the uproar has raised serious questions about the credibility of the appointment process and the role of regulatory oversight within Nigeria’s higher education sector.

NMU, which was founded in 2015 to promote maritime education and Nigeria’s strategic participation in global maritime trade, now finds itself at the centre of a governance scandal that threatens to undermine its integrity.

Ayedatiwa Pledges Support for AFUED Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa has pledged to develop Adeyemi Federal University of Education (AFUED), Ondo.

The governor stated this during a recent courtesy visit to his office in Akure, by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairwoman of the Governing Council, Mrs. Ganiyat Adeola Yusuf, and the university’s management.

The chairwoman was accompanied by a member of the governing council, Mr. Adedapo Lam Adesina; the acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof.

Samuel Akintunde; the acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olufemi Olajuyigbe; the Registrar, Mrs. Olufisayo Fakorede; the acting Librarian, Dr. (Mrs). Adeola Afolabi; and the Director of Information and

Public Relations, Mrs. Oluseto Olatuyi.

The governor lauded the prochancellor’s vision to grow the university to an enviable one and promised that his administration would support its development to meet its vision and mission.

The governor stated that the state has four tertiary institutions, which has a lot of financial implications for his administration, he however acknowledged the enormous support of the federal government which he said had brought remarkable relief to his government.

He expressed his willingness to attend the 35th convocation ceremony of the institution, where the first lady, Mrs Oluremi Tinubu, would be the guest of honour.

Some final year Pharmacy students of Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) are worried that their dream of pursuing their career now hangs in the balance following the perceived delay by the Dean, Faculty of Pharmacy, Professor Lateef Kasim, to present their results to the University Senate for approval.

The affected 44 students regretted that the delayed approval of results would hinder them from participating in the induction into the Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria (PCN), scheduled for May 8 at the university.

They also fear that the negligence of the Faculty of Pharmacy may cost them an extra year, as the next induction may be towards the end of the year or early next year.

THISDAY learnt that the matter started after the 90 students admitted in 2019/2020 completed their final exams on August 1, 2024, and on November 5, the school released the list of students who passed and, consequently, the list of would-be inductees.

Some students whose names were not on the list because of an outstanding course were

said to have revolted. They approached some powerful figures who prevailed on the school authorities and the vice-chancellor to recall the senate-approved induction list.

After a series of consultations and almost two months of information blackout, a new induction list was released in late January 2025, which excluded 44 students.

The students cried out that their results were altered on the result portal, and marks were changed at random, but the dean reportedly advised the affected students to stop complaining and rewrite the exams if they wanted to be inducted with the unaffected students.

He allegedly issued them a two-week ultimatum to pay a full tuition fee of N280,000, which they complied with.

After writing the exam on February 3, they waited 10 weeks to get their results, which should be released within four weeks.

After the release on April 14, as part of the protocol, the results would be approved at the university senate meeting, usually held every last Thursday of the month.

But, at the meeting on April 24, the dean reportedly failed to supply the electronic copy of

the results. Thus, the results of the 44 affected students missed the senate’s approval.

This stirred a fresh uproar as students, parents, and some alumni besieged the office of the vice-chancellor on April 28 to appeal the decision.

A mixture of exasperation and anger drove the parents and students to write a letter of appeal to the dean. They arrived at the dean’s office with pleas and tears, but he allegedly told them another induction would be arranged for them in June.

But the students expressed disbelief, saying, “When they cancelled our result for no just reason, he encouraged us to rewrite the exam and that he would delay the entire induction so that we all can hold one ceremony together. We did that, but he failed to keep his word. Now he is telling us the same lies.”

Parents are also planning a lawsuit against the Faculty of Pharmacy for causing psychological trauma, stealing their children’s future away from them, and subjecting them to adverse economic hardship.

They noted that in 2020, due to the ASUU strike, the students wasted a whole academic year.

Now, they are confronted with another year if this matter is

not urgently addressed.

An official at the university said conducting two separate inductions in a year is not usually feasible, suggesting that the dean was being evasive and deceptive.

The official added that the dean could still make amends by liaising with the vice-chancellor to call an emergency senate meeting for approval and subsequently merge all the inductees.

In a telephone chat with THISDAY, Prof. Kasim condemned the students’ conduct and impatience, saying that he was always truthful and hospitable towards them and genuinely concerned about their welfare, but their recent behaviour showed a lack of confidence in him.

When asked to consider the students’ request to organise a joint induction ceremony, the dean insisted that they should exercise patience and wait, which is part of their training.

He refuted the claims that the results were not approved at the last senate meeting because he didn’t provide electronic copies, and assured the students that the results would be presented for senate’s approval this month, while induction will follow shortly, but did not say when.

OOU gate

‘PAD Me A Girl Initiative’ Launches Pad Bank to Support IDP Girls, Women Funmi Ogundare Gatmash Media’s ‘PAD Me A Girl Initiative’, in collaboration with Access Bank, has launched a transformative project, ‘Pad Bank’, to supply free reusable sanitary pads to girls and women living in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps, Durumi, Abuja, and Ortese, Benue.

The effort targets menstrual health awareness and aims to combat period poverty among displaced populations.

Convener of the PAD Me A Girl Initiative, Theresa Moses, expressed excitement about the launch of the Pad Bank, saying

that it will restore dignity and provide relief to thousands of displaced girls and women.

According to her, access to menstrual hygiene is a basic right that supports education, health, and economic participation. She added that the Pad Bank provides a sustainable, eco-friendly solution, disclosing that the reusable pads can be washed and used multiple times, reducing dependency on disposables and contributing to environmental sustainability.

The initiative, she noted, supports several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG4

and five on quality education and gender equality, SDGs six and 12 on clean water and sanitation; responsible consumption and production, as well as SDG13 on climate action.

Moses noted that Access Bank plays a key role in funding and resource support, enabling the widespread distribution of reusable pads to those in need.

“We’re proud to partner with PAD Me A Girl to promote menstrual health among IDPs,” said Moses. “Together, we’re working toward a future where no girl misses out on life or learning because of her period.”

Other sponsors include

Checkers Custard, Vita Baites Foods, PROSTAR SPORTS INTERNATIONAL, Jeffery Kuaran Foundation, Nigeria Online Media Alliance (NOMA), and anonymous donors.

Some of the beneficiaries shared how the pads have changed their lives.

“I’m grateful for the sanitary pads. I can now attend school without worrying,” said Joy Terseer, 12.

“The pads gave me back my confidence,” added Hadiza Ibrahim, 15. “Before, I lived in fear of embarrassment from unexpected periods. Now, I feel ready to face the world.”

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WEDNESDAY, MAY 7, 2025 • THISDAY

NEWS

ABIODUN HOSTS INNER GALAXY GROUp...

L-R: President, Inner Galaxy Group, Mr. Li Shuang; Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun; and Vice President, Inner Galaxy Group, Mr. Jackie Chen, during a visit to the office of the Governor at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta on Tuesday

Kanu Admitted Calling for Attack on Police Officers, Witness Tells Court As court grants DSS application to remand leader of Benin-based Marxist group

Linus Aleke in Abuja A Federal High Court in Abuja heard on Tuesday how the self-acclaimed leader of the proscribed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, admitted operating an illegal radio station and inciting members of the public to attack police officers.

An official of the Department of State Services (DSS) said this while testifying as the second prosecution witness (PW2) in Kanu’s ongoing terrorism trial before Justice James Omotosho.

The witness said Kanu confirmed his activities while giving his statement.

In another development, an Edo State High Court sitting in Benin has granted the Department of State Services (DSS) application to remand in custody the leader of a Benin-based Marxist group, Talakawa Movement, Kola Edokpayi.

A top intelligence source revealed DSS arrested Edokpayi and four others on April 30 for planning to stage a rally in support of the leader of Burkina Faso’s military junta, Ibrahim Traore.

Led in evidence in the IPOB matter by prosecuting lawyer, Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, the PW2 said beside being the leader of the proscribed IPOB, Kanu is the founder of the Eastern Security Network (ESN), the armed wing of IPOB. The witness said Kanu also operated an illegal radio station, which

broadcast on frequencies 102.1 FM and 88.0 FM. He also said the radio was illegal because it was not licensed by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC).

He added that on July 2021, he was assigned the duty of taking Kanu’s statement following a letter from the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) requesting the IPOB leader be investigated for his alleged terrorism activities.

The witness said he carried out the assignment in the company of four other colleagues. He said he handed Kanu the letter from the AGF, which the defendant read and also gave his lawyers to read, following which he requested that Kanu respond to the issues raised in the letter.

He said that after reading the letter, Kanu volunteered to make a statement in the presence of two of his lawyers, including Alloy Ejimakor.

The witness said he played some of the broadcasts made by the defendant on his radio station (Radio Biafra), including where he called for the attack of police officers and other inciting comments.

PW2 said Kanu admitted the voice in the broadcast, which he played to his hearing, were his (Kanu’s) own.

On what Kanu was agitating about, the witness said Kanu wanted the secession of the five South East states, parts of Kogi and Benue states from the rest of Nigeria.

The witness said the defendant’s

statement talking session was recorded on video.

At that point, Awomolo showed the witness a copy of a compact disc, which PW2 identified as containing the recording of his interaction with Kanu.

Awomolo then applied to tender the letter from the AGF, the disc and a certificate of compliance.

But lawyer to the defence, Kanu Agabi, SAN, objected to the prosecution’s application to tender the items, arguing that the defence was not served with the AGF letter and the video recording.

The Bayelsa State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration among the various security agencies for the security of lives and property in the state.

Governor Douye Diri stated this on Monday when participants of Study Course 47 of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House, Yenagoa.

Governor Diri, who spoke through his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, noted that Bayelsa had a robust and resilient security architecture, saying his administration was poised to make the state safest for business and residency in Nigeria.

But to achieve this, he said the state government would continue to support the security agencies and ensure “that all hands are always on deck” According to the Bayelsa helmsman, government exists mainly to ensure security of lives and property, and the welfare of the people, which requires complementation and not competition among security agencies.

Governor Diri, while expressing hope that the visit of the Senior Course 47 Defence Study Team to Bayelsa would further help the state improve on its security architecture, added that advanced security equipment were being installed for more effective surveillance in the state.

His words: “On behalf of the

Constitution, serve on the defendant all facilities, including documents that it intends to rely on to prosecute the case.

Upon an application by Awomolo, Justice Omotosho adjourned till May 7 to enable the prosecution to serve the defence of all the necessary documents and for the PW 2 to continue his testimony.

Earlier, the PW1, identified as PWAAA concluded his testimony after being cross examined by Agabi and re-examined by Awomolo.

Under cross-examination by Agabi, the witness said he was consulted

in relation to the role he played in the case as an investigator before the charge in the case was filed.

The witness said he is not aware that the defendant was charged with 15 counts, but that he is aware that Kanu was charged with inciting others to attack members of the police force.

PWAAA said: “I was not part of the drafting of the charge, but I am aware that he (the defendant) incited people to kill members of the police force,” adding said he is not aware that the count relating to that allegation was struck out from the charge in an earlier ruling.

Defence Minister Matawalle Meets Chinese Defence Manufacturer to Enhance Nigeria’s Military Capabilities Linus Aleke in Abuja The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, had met with a leading Chinese manufacturer of advanced anti-terrorism and hightech defence equipment to enhance Nigeria’s defence capabilities.

A statement by the minister stated the high-level security meeting, which took place in China, was aimed at strengthening strategic defence ties between Nigeria and China.

Matawalle said the primary

Security: Bayelsa Govt Reaffirms Commitment to Fostering Inter-Agency Collaboration Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa

Agabi said it was part of the right of the defendant to be given copies of all documents and materials that the prosecution planned to rely on in prosecuting the case.

Awomolo said he was ready to furnish the defendant with all the necessary documents and materials that the prosecution wishes to rely on.

Ruling, Justice James Omotosho held that the defence was entitled to all the documents and materials the prosecution planned to rely on.

Justice Omotosho proceeded to order the prosecution to, in line with the provision of Section 36 of the

government and people of our state, I welcome you to Bayelsa.

We believe that your study is very focused, and the area of focus appears to be the one we have put our foot forward in the comity of states.

“Government exists for two reasons: The primary responsibility of government is to provide security of lives and property, and to promote the well-being of the people.

“We are happy that you are coming to look at our security architecture and to encourage us to improve on it. We have quite a robust, resilient and proactive security system. But we will continue to build on it until we make our state unarguably the safest in this country.

focus of his engagement with the Chinese defence manufacturer was to formalise a collaboration through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Chinese firm and the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON).

He said the new partnership is expected to play a crucial role in advancing Nigeria’s security sector.

His words: “Under the terms of the MoU, the Chinese company has committed to investing in Nigeria’s defence infrastructure with a comprehensive partnership that includes: technology transfer, facilitating the transfer of cuttingedge defence technology to Nigeria; local production, establishing local manufacturing capabilities for advanced military equipment; and

capacity building, providing technical knowledge exchange to enhance the skills of Nigerian personnel.”

Matawalle also highlighted key areas of collaboration, including the maintenance and upgrading of existing military hardware, servicing of battle tanks, and offering military engineering services.

According to him, “this partnership aims to extend its reach beyond Nigeria, providing military support services to neighbouring African countries and contributing to regional security and stability.”

Stating that this landmark engagement represents a major advancement in Nigeria’s defence modernisation agenda, the minister reiterated the federal government’s commitment to building a selfreliant, technologically advanced,

and globally competitive militaryindustrial base.

In addition to these initiatives, Matawalle said the agreement encompasses the construction of new production lines for various ammunition types, including 7.62×51mm ball cartridges, 7.62×51mm blank cartridges, 9×19mm pistol cartridges, and machine gun ammunition.

“Furthermore, new manufacturing workshops and facilities will be established in Kaduna and Kachia, Kaduna State, for the production of brass casings, bullet jackets, and other essential defence components,” he said.

The minister said the MoU aligns with President Tinubu’s vision for a comprehensive renewal and strategic overhaul of Nigeria’s security and defence capabilities.

Sokoto Receives €60m EU Funding to Enhance Social Protection, Health System Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto In a major boost to Nigeria’s development efforts, the European Union (EU), in partnership with the United Nations (UN) and the Danish Refugee Council (DRC), has launched three landmark projects worth €60 million in Sokoto State.

The projects, which will be implemented over a four-year period (2024-2027), aim to strengthen social protection, health systems, and sustainable solutions for displacement-affected communities

in Sokoto State.

The launch, which took place in Sokoto State, was attended by Governor Ahmed Aliyu, and ambassadors from nine EU member states.

According to the EU, the projects will focus on enhancing social protection, improving health access, and building resilience in Sokoto State and other parts of Nigeria.

The EU’s investment is expected to make a significant impact on the lives of millions of Nigerians, promoting sustainable development, reducing poverty and inequality, and

improving access to healthcare and social services.

The projects are being implemented in collaboration with the Government of Nigeria, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the International Labour Organization (ILO), and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

Protection, Health Systems.

In his remark Governor Ahmed Aliyu, commended the European Union (EU) for launching three development projects worth €60 million in the state.

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THISDAY • WEDNESDAY, MAY 7, 2025

NEWS

SOLO ROAD TRIP FROM LONDON TO LAGOS REMEMBERED...

L-R: Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Idris Aregbe; Ambassador/Solo London-to-Lagos Driver, Ms. Pelumi Nubi; and Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Olanrewaju Bajulaiye, during the one-year anniversary celebration of her groundbreaking solo road trip, held at the J. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, Lagos Island…recently

Tanko Yakassai: North Alone Can’t Decide Tinubu’s Presidential Fate in 2027 Elections Declares it will play a vital role of numbers ACF: No region can do it alone, it’s a collective venture Stakeholders worry over electoral integrity

Chuks Okocha and Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja Elder statesman and former parliamentary Adviser, Alhaji Tanko Yakassi, has warned that the North alone could not decide President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, when another election is due, saying it’s a national responsibility.

The 99-years-old, who spoke against the comments by a former Special Adviser on Political Matters to President Bola Tinubu, Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, that the North would

soon take its stand on 2027, however, declared that the north would play a critical role because of its numbers, among other factors.

In the same manner, the National Publicity Secretary of Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Prof. Tukur Mohammed Baba, also said the forum has no control over who would win the presidential election and that no region could produce the president on the basis of regional voting alone.

This was as stakeholders in the election process in Nigeria have raised concern over eroding electoral integrity

in the country.

Baba-Ahmed had stressed that no politician could win the Nigerian presidency without the support of the North. “No politician can become president without Northern support, making the region’s stance crucial to any aspirant’s success,” he said.

But Yakassai, a former Liaison Officer to the late President Shehu Shagari and founding member of Arewa Consultative Forum, ACF, said neither the North nor the South could single-handedly decide the fate of the next president by 2027.

“The presidential election is a national affair. Any presidential election is a national issue. The North alone cannot determine who becomes president; the South alone cannot make it. The South and North must come together with a formidable candidate to get it done.

“When I mean a formidable candidate, it means apart from someone with the popularity, he must have the financial clout. Elections in Nigeria now involve a lot of money. Unfortunately, people with money in Nigeria do not like to sponsor any candidate.

You must have enough money to

Minister Meets with Ganduje, Kicks against Kwankwaso’s Rumoured Defection to APC

Says ex-governor no longer relevant in Kano He’s wallowing in darkness, let’s help him, declares party chair

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Ata, has kicked against the rumoured defection of aformer governor of Kano State, Rabiu Kwankwaso to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Ata disclosed this in Abuja after a closed-door meeting with the APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje at the party’s national secretariat.

His words: “Anybody who visits Kano State even today will see that there are a lot of changes. It is hardly you will find red caps in Kano.

“Before now, if you visit the mosque you will see many red caps but today you can visit a

mosque and if 5000 people come for prayers, you cannot see 20 red caps in Kano.

“So, we are assuring the president that we are not asking for anything less. We are strongly behind our national chairman. We have been discussing with him. This is the opinion of all the Kano State APC, even to the grassroots.

“Kwankwaso is no longer relevant in Kano. He is only coming to APC, not that we invited him. Because he is going to die politically. I am assuring you and even Mr. President has all his security records from the grassroots in Kano.

“He is no more attractive. So, he is struggling to be accommodated in the APC. That may bring a lot

of crisis in the APC in Kano state.

This is our position.

“Unless the National Chairman, who is the leader of the party in Kano takes a decision to accept him, Kwankwaso stands rejected.”

Asked why he won’t be happy if Kwankwaso joined the APC, he said, “Personally, I won’t be happy.

Unless it is a decision from our father (Ganduje) to accommodate him. I was in the House of Assembly in 1999 when Kwankwaso was the governor. So, I know Kwankwaso very well.

“He is no more attractive in Kano.

We have no deal unless the national chairman, as a leader, said we should accommodate him. No problem.”

However, Ganduje who said

FG Steps-up Citizens’ Registration with Citizen NIMC NIN Authentication Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The federal government has approved the launch of the NIMC NIN Authentication for secure and seamless identity verification and authentication.

President Bola Tinubu has also directed the use of NIN Authentication for verification and authentication across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), in line with the NIMC’s mandate of regulating a reliable National Digital Identity for citizens and legal residents to

affirm their identity.

A statement on Tuesday by the spokesman of the commission, Dr. Kayode Adegoke read: “The launch of the “NIN Authentication (NINAuth),” a cutting-edge suite of services that include web, API and mobile verification designed to enhance data security, protect privacy, and simplify access to government services, is part of President Tinubu, Renewed Hope Agenda on strengthening the National Identity Management System.”

He said the NIMC NINAuth application is the official service for integration with the Commission’s backend infrastructure. It Introduces a robust layer of protection, empowering individuals with greater control over their personal information.

By requiring explicit consent before data is shared for Know Your Customer (KYC) processes or other verifications, the platform fosters trust, transparency, and user autonomy in digital identity management.

Kwankwaso has been abandoned by all his followers, added that “when a fish is running out of water, that’s exactly what is happening.

“If the water is drying, the fish has to find its way to water. So that is what is happening. I will not say we are not ready to welcome him.

put yourself there but don’t rely on others,” Yakassai said.

Although he agreed that the North could play a critical role in the emergence of a president, it could not make the decision alone.

His words: “Like I said, the North alone cannot decide who becomes President in 2027 but it will play a very important role because of its numbers. Of course, other factors will make it possible for a presidential candidate to emerge and win elections in this country. Those factors include acceptability and support by the stakeholders.”

Yakassai further said every Nigerian with a voter card is expected to cast his or her vote for or against any presidential candidate, explaining that it was not a question of North or south. ‘’Presidential election is a national event. Hakeem Baba Ahmed knows that,’’ the elder statesman maintained.

The ACF, through its National Publicity Secretary, Prof. Tukur Mohammed, insisted it had no control over who would win the presidential election and that no region could produce the president on the basis of regional voting alone.

According to the ACF spokesman, “In 2027, ACF views the statement as a personal opinion of Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed to which he is entitled.

Whether or not it will come to pass, we don’t know.

“ACF as an organisation has no control over that. But we do know that no one can be president on the basis of regional voting alone, as the constitution requirements require what is essentially a pan-regional spread of support at some minimum level.

“Again, whatever anyone thinks, it is the voter, if allowed to vote without interference, manipulation or other electoral malfeasance, that will determine the outcome. So, basically, we need to wait to see how things eventually pan out,” he said.

Stakeholders Worry over Electoral Integrity

Stakeholders in the election process in Nigeria have raised concern over eroding electoral integrity in the country.

They also decried the high level of poverty, lack of means or freedom to assert their civic rights and political actors manipulating elections, where vote-buying and exploitation of vulnerable communities distort democratic outcomes.

The stakeholders stated this yesterday in Abuja at a-two day Policy Dialogue on Nigeria’s Triple Challenge: Civic Space, Poverty, and Electoral Integrity organised by the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development (Centre LSD), and Women’s Rights Advancement and Protection Alternative (WRAPA) with support from MacArthur Foundation.

Obi Decries State of Nigeria’s Education Sector, Low University Enrollment Insists Nigeria remains world poverty capital

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The Labour Party, LP, presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi, has expressed deep concern over the recently released results of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), describing them as a reflection of Nigeria’s deteriorating education system.

The former governor of Anambra State, was reacting to the data published by JAMB, which revealed that 1,955,069 candidates sat for the 2025 UTME and that out of this figure, only about 420,000 scored above 200, while over 1.5 million candidates scored below the 200-mark.

In a statement released Tuesday via his verified social media handle,

Obi noted that “this means that over 78% of the total candidates failed to meet the 200-mark threshold – a reflection of the deep-rooted challenges in our educational system.”

Attributing the poor performance to long-standing neglect and underinvestment in the education sector, he stressed that education must be repositioned as a cornerstone of national development.

According to him: “The latest JAMB results once again highlight the consequences of decades of underinvestment in education, a sector that should be central to our national development strategy.”

Mr. Obi also drew comparisons between Nigeria and other countries with significantly stronger educational outcomes, stating that Nigeria’s total university enrollment is currently about 2 million students while in stark

contrast, Bangladesh’s National University, a single university, has an enrollment figure of over 3.4 million students, despite the country having only about 75% of Nigeria’s population.

“Bangladesh, which once lagged behind Nigeria in virtually every measurable development index, now surpasses us in all key areas of development and in the Human Development Index (HDI),” he remarked.

Citing another example, Obi referenced Turkey, which has a population of about 87.7 million but boasts more than 7 million university students - over three times Nigeria’s entire university enrollment.

He reiterated his long-standing position that education is not merely a social service but a strategic national investment.

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WEDNESDAY, MAY 7, 2025 • THISDAY

NEWS

DINNER ORGANISED IN HONOUR BY THE NATIONAL AGENDA FOR TINUBU 2027...

L-R: Legal Adviser to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr. Abdul Karim Abukaria; Former House of Representatives member, Mr. Farouk Lawan; and National Chairman of the APC, Dr. Abdullahi PHOTO: KINGSLEY ADEBOYE Ganduje, during the dinner organised in honour by the National Agenda for Tinubu 2027 in Abuja…recently

18 Imo Judges Appear Before NJC over Alleged Age Falsification and Misconduct Lawyer demands sanction of judges over abuse of ex parte orders

Alex Enumah and Folalumi Alaran in Abuja No less than 18 judges in the Imo State judiciary are scheduled to appear before the National Judicial Council (NJC), over alleged age falsification and misconduct.

A source in the Imo State judiciary disclosed to THISDAY that the summons was sequel to a petition to the judges’ umbrella body, by a civil society group, the Civil Society Engagement Platform (CSEP).

This was as a human rights lawyer and activist, Christopher Chidera, has called for the sanction of appeal court judges over the abuse of ex parte order to oppress Nigerians.

CSEP had last month dragged 18 out of the 24 judges in Imo State before the NJC over alleged age falsification and misconduct.

The Executive Secretary of the Coalition, Comrade Onyebuchi Emmanuel, had in the petition, addressed to the NJC Chairman and Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN),

accused 18 of the judges of falsifying their ages at various times in order to secure appointment into the judiciary, thereby gaining undue advantage.

“The Civil Society Engagement Platform CSEP, a powerful coalition of leading civil rights activists in Nigeria has unearthed an unprecedented age falsification scandal of an alarming proportion in the Imo State Judiciary.

“This is at a level never seen before in Nigeria, involving a whooping 18 Judges of Imo State Judiciary.

Unbelievable!

Bamidele Heads Oversight Committee on Rivers

“Your lordship may recall that CSEP through its diligent and painstaking covert operations, exposed the former Chief Judge of Imo State, Hon. Justice Chikeka, for the same crime of age falsification.

“We followed up with a petition to the NJC and she was eventually sacked after due process was followed.

“We hereby demand action on this petition so as to save the Judiciary from continued ridicule as a result of the presence of certain Judges who are (allegedly) known to have falsified their ages and still parade themselves as Judges.

“We are confident that you are one person who will not allow the Judiciary to be brought to ridicule,” the letter had read.

A source at the Imo judiciary

disclosed that the affected judges had been summoned by the NJC to defend the allegations.

The appointment of an acting Chief Judge of Imo State had pitted the Imo State Government against the leadership of the judiciary for quite some time.

The judges’ umbrella body had rejected the candidate of Governor Hope Uzodinma, on the grounds that the appointment breached the constitutional hierarchy of the judiciary.

Following the sack of the former CJ, Uzodinma had appointed the fourth most senior judge as CJ, after by-passing the three most senior judges.

The governor predicated his action on the grounds that the three most senior judges were not qualified to

occupy the office of Chief Judge due to various alleged infractions ranging from age falsification to misconduct.

But the NJC refused to accept the governor’s candidate, ordering him to comply with constitutional provisions by appointing the most senior judge as CJ. Meanwhile, a human rights lawyer and activist, Christopher Chidera has called for the sanction of appeal court judges over the abuse of ex parte order to oppress Nigerians.

The lawyer insisted that if Justice Inyang Ekwo could face sanctions for his misconduct, then the Appeal Court justices who upheld the illicit ex parte decree prescribing Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) issued by the late Justice Kafarati must also be held accountable.

MAN, NECA, Ndume Hail FG’s Nigeria First Policy

Senate to hold 3-day national security summit isandtrulyeconomic serious about local content leadership isn’t photo-ops or should be exempted from the ban patriotism, it must soundbites—it’s setting the tone or have a waiver to ensure their by example. Nigeria deserves real continuous availability. start at the very top.

House charges NSA, service chiefs on Benue, “This is because some products “We challenge President Tinubu commitment, not this never-ending to stop the noise and trade in his charade,” Atiku said in his challenge may not be readily available locally, probes Giwa Barracks armory Fire, attacks beloved Escalade for an Innoson, to Tinubu on the Nigeria First policy. or their local production may be

Adedayo Akinwale, Sunday Aborisade and Juliet Akoje in Abuja

The Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, has been nominated to head the committee to oversight the sole administrator in Rivers State, being one of the requisite constitutional demands in the event of a proclamation of a state of emergency.

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, yesterday, made the announcement, when he constituted an 18-member committee to oversee the activities of the Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.)

Akpabio reaffirmed Senate’s commitment to upholding democratic processes in the oil-rich state, just as the Senate, yesterday, resolved to organise a three-day National Security Summit in Abuja.

At the same time, the House of Representatives, has called on the National Security Adviser (NSA) and the service chiefs to ensure maximum deployment of security personnel to Otukpo local government Area of Benue State in view of the security crisis in the state.

In the same vein, the House has mandated its committee on army, defence and national security, to investigate the cause of the fire incident at Giwa Barracks armory and the escalating terrorists’ attacks,

and report back to the it for immediate action to prevent future occurrences.

President Bola Tinubu appointed Ibas to administer the affairs of Rivers State after the declaration of emergency and suspension of the governor of the State, Siminalayi Fubara, for six months.

The House of Representatives had since set up its own committee during the Sallah and Easter break.

Akpabio made the announcement during plenary upon resumption yesterday from Easter and Eid Fitr celebrations, appointing the Leader of the Senate, Opeyemi Bamidele, to chair the committee.

In his remarks, the Senate President explained that the committee was created to ensure transparency and accountability in the state’s governance.

He said the setting up of the panel was critical in ensuring effective legislative oversight in Rivers State, and charged the committee to commence its oversight duties without delay, insisting that their assignment was urgent.

Other members of the committee included Senators Adamu Aliero, Osita Izunaso, Osita Ngwu, Kaka Shehu, Aminu Abass, Tokunbo Abiru, Adeniyi Adegbonmire and Sani Musa.

Also on the committee were Simon Lalong, Asuquo Ekpeyong, Adams Oshiomhole, Ireti Kingibe, Onyekachi Nwebonyi; Idiat Adebule,

Ede Dafinone, and Mohammed Nakudu, alongside the Clerk of the Senate, Andrew Nwoba.

Senate to Hold 3-Day Security Summit

The Senate, yesterday, resolved to organise a three-day National Security Summit in Abuja.

The summit will be attended by participants from all levels of government, traditional institutions, civil society, and the security sector.

This was as it urged the executive to review and update national security policies based on the recommendations from the Summit.

The red chamber said the summit would be convened by all senators in the 109 senatorial districts which they represent in order to create widespread awareness on the outcome of the event.

The summit idea was in response to the escalating wave of killings, kidnappings, and other violent crimes across the country.

This followed the adoption of a motion titled “Urgent Need for a National Security Summit,” sponsored

by Sen Jimoh Ibrahim (Ondo South) and co-sponsored by Senators Titus Zam Tartenger (Benue North-West), Onyeka Peter Nwebonyi (Ebonyi North), and Osita Ngwu (Enugu West).

Nord or any made-in-Nigeria car.

“That single act will do more to promote local industry than a thousand policy memos. Let’s see the ministers—those shameless Rolls Royce connoisseurs—sweat it out in Nigerian-made vehicles too. Or is Nigeria First only for the masses?

“And speaking of double standards, it’s time Mr. President shelves his love affair with Paris and London.

If he’s serious about patriotism, his next vacation should be at Obudu Cattle Ranch, Yankari Game Reserve, or Erin Ijesha Waterfalls. Nigeria is beautiful—unless, of course, the President thinks otherwise.”

He added: “More importantly, the era of jetting off for medical tourism while preaching self-reliance must end. We demand that President Tinubu—champion of Nigeria First—conduct all future medical check-ups at LUTH, National Hospital Abuja, UCH Ibadan, or even the #41 billion Naira Akwa Ibom world-class hospital built by uncommon transformer, in Uyo. ‘’If these hospitals are good enough for ordinary Nigerians, they should be good enough for their Commander-in-Chief. Anything less is sheer hypocrisy.

“This government’s addiction to foreign luxuries while demanding sacrifice from suffering Nigerians is the height of insincerity. True

PETROAN Cautions Government

Also, PETROAN urged the federal government to be careful in implementing the policy.

In a statement signed by National PRO, PETROAN, Dr. Joseph Obele, made available to journalists in Port Harcourt, yesterday, the group applauded Tinubu for the bold step in promoting local produce, but warned of potential pitfalls.

In the statement, the National president of PETROAN, Dr. Billy Gillis-Harry, urged the government to exercise caution on the import policy to avoid economic shock.

Gillis-Harry expressed concerns that the policy could worsen Nigeria’s inflation and emphasised the need for energy security.

While commending the government’s efforts to strengthen the domestic economy and promote local content, the association urged the government to ensure that the policy does not lead to shortages or price increases, particularly in the petroleum sector, where local refining capacity is still being developed.

PETROAN advised that, “essential and sensitive products, such as petroleum products, pharmaceuticals, and other highly consumable goods,

insufficient to meet demand, leading to shortages and price hikes.”

The association noted other factors that may necessitate importing goods to include: “Unavailability of specialised technology or expertise locally, higher quality standards of imported goods, economies of scale favouring imports and strategic or critical nature of the product.”

PETROAN noted that, “even the United States, under the ‘America First’ policy, has implemented targeted tariffs rather than blanket bans, allowing for flexibility and exemptions for critical goods.”

Listing some of the advantages of banning the importation of foreign goods, Gillis-Harry said it promotes local content, stimulates economic growth, create jobs, and increase domestic production.

He added that the policy would aid in reducing reliance on foreign goods, which narrows the trade deficit and conserves foreign exchange.

He said, “Our primary concern is the availability and affordability of petroleum products in Nigeria to meet the daily consumption volume of over 46 million litres of petrol and other petroleum products.

“We must ensure that our policies do not compromise energy security, as this could have far-reaching consequences for the economy and the well-being of Nigerians.”

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THISDAY • WEDNESDAY, MAY 7, 2025

NEWS

FIRST SESSION OF THE 36TH SYNOD OF THE DIOCESE OF LAGOS...

L-R: Wife of former Diocesan, Mrs. Oluranti Ademowo, presenting a commemorative plate to Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; with them is the Diocesan Bishop of Lagos, Anglican Communion, Rt. Rev’d. Ifedola Okupevi, during the first session of the 36th Synod of the Diocese of Lagos at Our Saviour Church, Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Lagos on Monday

I’m Not Leaving PDP, But Leading Coalition to Challenge APC, Atiku Declares Media office says Bwala’s outburst exposes Tinubu camp’s mounting panic over coalition PDP BoT women constitute c’ttee to meet party’s governors against defection

Chuks Okocha in Abuja Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, has dismissed insinuations that he was planning to dump the party for ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking with female members of the PDP’s Board of Trustees (BoT), who visited him to help save the party from total collapse, he insisted on a coalition to push out the APC-led government in 2027.

Atiku said the coalition was not just a political strategy, but a necessity to challenge the ruling party and rebuild the country.

THISDAY gathered that Atiku, who was so passionate about the PDP, told the women led by the former Minister of Women Affairs and Ex-National Women Leader of the party, Hajia Inna Ciroma, that the coalition was a workable one that

would assure good results.

According to him, the National Party of Nigeria (NPN), the ruling party in the Second Republic, had formed an alliance with the Nigeria Peoples Party, NPN and it was called NPN- NPP accord, saying when the coalition was achieved, the name of PDP would not be affected.

He was said to have told the women about the status of the panNigerian coalition that he was building in conjunction with other leaders and stakeholders across political divides and regions.

Atiku also informed them that the Nigerian Movement was being powered by Nigerians desirous of reclaiming and rebuilding their country.

When contacted, Inna Ciroma said, “We as PDP Board of Trustees, BoT members, the conscience of the party decided to take this bold decision to

come into the crisis the party is going through. We as mothers are worried and disturbed with what the party is going through at the moment.

“We are disturbed that the party has no leadership and any organisation without leadership could not stand.

We are worried and disturbed. We cannot fold our hands and see things go bad in our great party.

“We decided to visit former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to complain about what we are not happy with, to brainstorm with him on the way forward, on how to save the party from total Collapse.

“We told him that there must be leadership and direction in the party.

We had very fruitful discussions with the 2023 Presidential candidate of the party. He told us that he was not leaving the party as he discussed much on the coalition and the need for us to key in.

“We also discussed party funding, that parties should be well-funded so that no single person can control the party based on funding parties must belong to the people and everyone has a role to play in the growth of the party.”

The BoT women further took it upon themselves to have a meeting with the Acting National Chairman, Amb. Umar Damagum, for over one and half hours at Wadata Plaza, PDP National Secretariat.

In order to achieve this, the BoT women constituted a team that would reach out to PDP governors, leaders, stakeholders and other members to discuss the problems, why the crisis and the way forward.

Meanwhile, the Atiku Media Office has said that comments by Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu, Daniel Bwala, had shown that there was a mounting panic over

With $75 Budget Benchmark, Concerns Mount as Oil Price Hovers Around $60

allocation to key strategic areas of growth.

He said the excess crude account had always been used to shore up shortfalls in situations where the oil benchmark falls below budgetary expectations.

Idakolo said: “Since the excess crude account is now not funded, it will not be able to cushion the effect of any shortfall. The main implication of crude oil price falling below budgetary projections is reduced revenue that would affect growth projections and affect infrastructural development.”

NLC Laments Falling Prices

The NLC said its apprehension arose based on the likely consequences of the price decline which is bound to affect the budget benchmark and the country’s earning capacity.

While responding THISDAY’s enquiry, NLC’s Chris Onyeka said the fears were made more apparent because of lack of fiscal discipline and judicious allocation of resources by the government.

According to another top official of NLC, who spoke on condition of anonymity, apart from affecting the ability of the government to discharge its debt repayment obligations, the ordinary Nigerians may be subjected to further deprivation since the government may use it as excuse to cut funding for safety nets and other things that impact on the welfare of the average Nigerian.

“For an economy that is largely dependent on a single product or what we call in economics - mono product economy like Nigeria, we find out that the health of that

particular product determines the state of that country’s economy.

“In essence, the fiscal position of that country is dependent on what happens to the price of that product at the international market.

“Unfortunately for Nigeria, the drop in the price of crude below the budget benchmark will have a significant impact on the nation’s economy. It will make the country’s situation more complicated than it was before.

“This is a nation that has suffered severely as a result of its negative fiscal position, now that the price of oil has dropped to $60, which makes the situation even worse,” he explained.

He said a reduced revenue will make matters worse, adding that for a government that was already borrowing to service its debts, such would pose a big challenge.

“It means that the more you struggle to service your debt, the less you can meet your other fiscal challenges like having money to spend on things like infrastructure, health and education,” he said.

On the fears that organised labour may have on the price slump, the NLC said: “Once this happens, we will begin to have less money devoted to critical needs of the people like the social safety nets and welfare of workers.

“We are afraid that these things will not be provided for adequately, and then the ability to also deliver on the expectations of workers in terms of regular payment of salaries.”

The Labour official, however, said beyond the crude oil price

drop was the issue of lack of fiscal discipline and profligacy on the part of government officials.

“Even with this level of fiscal challenge, the fact is that the problem the country has is waste in the economy.

If there is fiscal discipline on the part of those running the economy, the government should be able to prioritise its spending and we will not have any issue.

“But where you have profligacy in the government and nothing is done to check it, then there is going to be little to spend on the people,” he said.

OPEC+ agreed on Saturday to accelerate oil production hikes for a second consecutive month, raising output in June by 411,000 barrels per day.

The June increase from the eight producers in the OPEC+ group would take the total combined hikes for April, May and June to 960,000 bpd, representing a 44 per cent unwinding of the 2.2 million bpd of various cuts agreed on since 2022.

To align with current realities, a number of internationally renowned finance institutions have reviewed their earlier projections for the oil market.

Goldman Sachs slashed its oil price forecast for a third time in one month after OPEC+ decided to hike production in June with a similar 410,000-bpd increase it is implementing in May. Analysts at Goldman said they now see Brent crude prices averaging $60 per barrel this year, down from a previous forecast of $63 a barrel, while the average price of the US

benchmark, WTI crude, has been downgraded to $56 for 2025, down from $59 a barrel previously.

According to Goldman, next year, Brent may likely average $56 a barrel, down from $58, and WTI is expected at $52, down from $55 per barrel in the mid-April forecast it released before now.

Besides, Barclays lowered its Brent oil price forecast by $4 per barrel to $66/bbl for 2025 and by $2 to $60/bbl for 2026, citing the decision by OPEC+ to accelerate oil production hikes.

Barclays now expects OPEC+ to phase out the additional voluntary adjustments by October 2025, but also expects slightly slower US oil output growth. Overall, this loosens their balance estimates by 290, 000 bpd for 2025 and 110 kbd for 2026, it said.

In the same vein, Morgan Stanley joined other major investment banks in slashing oil price forecasts amid expectations of a larger market surplus later this year as OPEC+ plans to raise output much more than previously expected.

Morgan Stanley cut its oil price forecasts for the remainder of the year, anticipating a bigger glut. The bank revised down its projection of Brent Crude prices to $62.50 per barrel in the third and fourth quarters of this year, down by $5 per barrel from the previous forecast.

The market glut could reach 1.1 million barrels per day (bpd) in the second half of the year, Morgan Stanley reckoned, an upward revision of 400,000 bpd from the previous surplus forecast.

the Atiku-led coalition.

In a statement, Atiku’s media office said they had noted with utter contempt the disparaging remarks

by Bwala, during a recent interview on TVC. The statement stated: “It is both ironic and pathetic that Mr. Bwala — a political turncoat who once served as spokesperson for Atiku Abubakar’s 2023 presidential campaign — now presumes to lecture a statesman of global standing on matters of legacy, destiny, and retirement. ‘’His sanctimonious pontificating, laced with bitterness and duplicity, betrays a desperate effort to curry favour with a floundering administration clearly shaken by the unstoppable

momentum of the national coalition being galvanized by Atiku and other progressive leaders. ‘’Let it be clearly stated: Atiku Abubakar neither seeks nor requires validation from political opportunists who shed principles as easily as they change parties. Mr. Bwala’s current relevance, if any, is owed entirely to the platform he once occupied under Atiku’s leadership — a fact that should breed humility, not arrogance. ‘’The Tinubu camp’s obsession with Atiku’s political future is no coincidence. If, as they claim, Atiku is a spent force, why the relentless smear campaign? Why the strategic allocation of presidential platforms to attack him?

Delta Assembly Speaker, Guwor, 21 PDP Lawmakers Formalise Defection to APC Six reps members, too Edo speaker, others also join ruling party

Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba, Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City and Juliet Akoje in Abuja

Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Emomotimi Guwor, yesterday, formally joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) together with 21 other members of the House elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Also, six House of Representatives members from Delta State, have defected from the PDP to the APC. At the same time, the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA), Mr. Blessing Agbebaku, led two other members of the assembly and some local government councilors of the PDP to the APC. Guwor and the others were, on 28th April in Asaba, received into the APC by Vice-President Shettima, alongside Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, former governor Ifeanyi Okowa, the chairmen of the state’s 25 local government areas and almost all the leaders and members of the PDP in the state.

However, by yesterday’s formal defection of the Speaker and the 21 former PDP legislators, the Delta State House of Assembly is now effectively transformed into a one-party, APC legislature because the remaining seven lawmakers were already APC members.

The speaker made the announcement when the House resumed plenary after the Easter break.

He justified the action referencing Section 109 of the 1999 Constitution as amended, thanking the members for the support and contribution to legislative activities of the state legislature.

Guwor urged the House to ensure the completion of all pending bills as the second legislative session nears draws towards the end.

From the House of Representatives, six PDP members defected to the APC. They were Hon. Victor Nwokolo, Hon. Julius Pondi, Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi, Hon. Nicholas Mutu, Hon. Okodiko Jonathan, and Hon.Nnamdi Ezechi.

Also, two Labour Party members from Enugu State, also defected from their party to join the PDP. They were Hon. Mark Obetta and Hon. Dennis Nnamdi.

According to the Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, the lawmakers attributed their defections to unresolved internal crises within their parties both at state and national levels.

In Edo, the Speaker, Mr. Blessing Agbebaku, led two other members of the house and some local government councilors of the PDP to the APC. The Speaker said the move was aimed at aligning with Governor Monday Okpebholo to fast-track development across the State.

WEDNESday may 7, 2025 • T H I S D AY

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NEWS xtra

ENHANCING ACADEMIC VISIBILITY…

L-R: Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Retail Development and Investment Company (RDIC) Limited, Ejimofor Akah; Regional Manager, South-South, RDIC, Ewaen Osasuyi; Provost, Federal College of Education (FCET), Ekiadolor, Dr. Emmanuel Asagha, and Registrar, FCET, Henry Itedjere, after the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the company and the institution in Benin, Edo State…recently

House Unveils Steps to Quell Rivers Crisis, Moves to Restore Democratic Order Eradiri begs Fubara to sustain reconciliation

Juliet Akoje in Abuja, Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The House of Representatives, yesterday, unveiled steps aimed at addressing the ongoing political turmoil in Rivers State.

Speaker of the House, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, who disclosed this when lawmakers reconvened from the Easter and Sallah break, emphasised the importance of restoring democratic stability in the state.

A joint operation by the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) and the National Park Service yesterday led to the arrest in Abuja of three persons, Musa Usman, Samila Abdullahi and Saidu Jagaban, for trafficking in endangered wildlife species.

The suspects were arrested in different parts of the city for illegal sale of prohibited exotic birds and wild animals contrary to the provisions of the Endangered Species Act. A statement by the spokesperson of NESREA, Nwamaka Ejiofor read: Whilst Usman and Abdullahi were found in possession of 15 Senegalese Parrots and one

House acted in accordance with Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) to endorse the measure.

“Subsequently, we inaugurated a 21-member

Ad-hoc Committee, led by the Leader of the House, to exercise oversight of the caretaker administration and safeguard democratic accountability in the state.

of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.

However, Abbas noted that the House’s endorsement of the emergency rule declaration reflected its firm commitment

African Grey Parrot, Saidu Jagaban was arrested for hawking three dead antelopes.

She noted that the trio are to remain in custody while investigation continues.

The Director-General of NESREA, Prof. Innocent Barikor, however, reminded Nigerians that trafficking in endangered species remains a crime under Nigerian law, warning that perpetrators will be prosecuted accordingly.

He stressed that all living things play different roles in ensuring biodiversity sustainability, hence the need to protect those classified as endangered species under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) to which Nigeria is a party.

Expert Links Bad Project Management Delivery to Poor Political Will

Three Persons in Custody for Illegal Trade in Endangered Wildlife Michael Olugbode in Abuja

to constitutional principles and its prompt reaction to the crisis unfolding in the oil-rich region.

“Following the president’s transmission of a Proclamation of a State of Emergency, the

This was as a former President, Ijaw Youths Council (IYC) Worldwide, Udengs Eradiri, has urged the suspended Governor of Rivers State, Mr Siminalayi Fubara to sustain the ongoing reconciliation process in the State.

At the same time, President of Ijaw National Congress (INC), Prof Benjamin Okaba, has encouraged the acting Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Bayelsa State, George Turnah, to forge ahead and collaborate with the Minister

EFCC:We Arrested VeryDarkMan Because He Failed to Honour Our invitation

Alex Enumah in Abuja

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), yesterday, said it arrested Martins Vincent Otse popularlyknown as VeryDarkMan (VDM) because he failed to honour its invitation.

The arrest of VDM, last Friday, in Abuja, has sparked condemnation and protest against a new generation bank believed

Blessing Ibunge in PortHarcourt

A project management expert, Dr. Prince N. Nwosa, has observed that poor planning and bad political will contributes to some failed projects delivery in the country.

Nwosa made the observation during the unveiling of his book titled: ‘Managing Project Successful:

to be connected with his arrest and the EFCC. However, reacting to the criticisms, the anti-graft agency explained that contrary to public perception, VDM was arrested due to his failure to honour the Commission’s invitation to answer to alleged financial offences.

In a statement by the Head, Media and Publicity, EFCC, Mr

Efficient Strategies for High Impact Delivery’, in Port Harcourt.

In his remarks, Nwosa, a project manager, noted that the Nigerian Government and government of other sub-saharan Africa are doing a good job in project management delivery, while seeking more improvement in their efforts.

He urged project managers to get licensed, read more about

Dele Oyewale, the commission, claimed that VDM, “refused to show up in spite of several invitations sent to him through his known addresses and medium of communication.”

The spokesperson noted that the petitions pertained to grave allegations of financial malfeasance that could not be ignored by the Commission.

“It is needful to admit that the

projects and also do research on other projects that failed as well as projects that succeed so that they could get lessons learned to impact on new projects that they can also be successful.

Nwosa said researches uncovered that “poor planning, bad political will, actually affects project delivery, and that’s why you can find a project that is well

commission is aware of several unguarded attacks of the suspect against its operations. While such conduct is condemnable, his arrest was not informed by such attacks. The relevant law enforcement agency will be allowed to look into them.

“The EFCC has a lawful right to hold Otse in custody like any other suspect being investigated by the commission.”

funded, has a good location but still fails or delays because there’s no political will”.

In his address, the Chief Executive Officer of the Chartered Institute of Project Managers of Nigeria (CIPMN), Mr. Henry Mbadiwe, urged Nigerians to adopting ingenious approaches to project management delivery in the country.

Osun Now Ranks 7th in National Examinations from 33rd in 2022 Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

Governor Ademola Adeleke has achieved another milestone in fulfilling his electoral promises as Osun state is now ranked 7th in national examinations from its 33rd position in early 2022.

Governor Adeleke had during the 2022 governorship campaign

promised to take Osun to a single digit ranking in national examinations, a vow he is keeping with the new report titled “Standard Educational Performance Ranking of States in 2024 SSCE” from the National Examinations Council (NECO).

According to an internal release on the development from the

Commissioner for Education, Hon Dipo Eluwole, the report confirmed Governor Adeleke’s commitment to restoring Osun state education sector to its academic leadership that the state once occupied from its creation in 1991.

For the records, Osun State was ranked number seven out of 36 States and the Federal Capital

Territory (FCT) coming behind Lagos, Kano, Oyo, Benue, Ogun and Katsina States, with 29,101 candidates that obtained at least five credits including English Language and Mathematics out of 41,264, that sat for the exam.

Osun state thereby achieved approximately 71 per cent success, first of its kinds in the last 18 years.

Project in partnership with Enactus Nigeria, has reached over 2,000 students across 20 public secondary schools in Lagos State.

The project’s 2.0 Grand Finale culminated in a thrilling essay competition during the weekend, with top winners emerging from some of Lagos’ top schools.

Samuel Opadotun of Ebute Elefun Senior High School took the top spot, followed closely by Ruben Oshisanya of Baptist Academy and Anuoluwapo Akeni of Jagunmolu Girls’ Senior Grammar School.

Dr. Okechukwu Enelamah, chairman of Africa Capital Alliance Group, described the

initiative as a movement, saying: “Ethical living project is not just a competition, it is a movement, it is a call to action for each of us to live by the values we espouse, to be the change that we want to see in our communities and society and to live by example in a world hungry for ethical and exemplary leadership.”

JTI Appoints Abdallah Simba as General Manager, Nigeria Nigeria’s Future Brightens as Thousands of Youths Embrace Ethical Leadership Japan Tobacco International (JTI) has announced the appointment of Abdallah Simba as the new General Manager for its Nigeria operations, effective May 1, 2025.

Simba brings nearly two decades of commercial and strategic leadership experience to the role, having held key positions across multiple markets and at JTI’s global headquarters in Geneva.

He joined JTI in Tanzania in 2005 in Marketing before taking on an international assignment in Ireland in 2009. He later transitioned into broader commercial roles, leading various Sales and Trade Marketing capabilities with increasing responsibility. In 2013,

Simba moved to JTI’s global headquarters in Geneva, where he progressed into senior roles within the Global Commercial Strategy function. In these roles, he led the optimisation of business models, guided market strategies, and up-skilled commercial teams across a wide range of markets.

Most recently, Simba served as Country Manager for Slovakia, where he successfully led profitable multi-category growth and operational strengthening, positioning the business for long-term sustainability.

He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Southern New Hampshire University in International Business.

Mary Nnah

Thousands of Nigerian youths have taken a significant step towards shaping the country’s future, embracing ethical leadership values in a groundbreaking initiative.

The Africa Capital Alliance Foundation’s Ethical Living

Obasanjo, Abdulsalami to Grace Lamido’s Autobiography Launch on May 13

Sunday Ehigiator

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd), state governors, federal and state lawmakers, and traditional rulers, are amongst several other dignitaries expected to attend the

book launch of the former Governor of Jigawa State and former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sule Lamido.

The book ‘Being True to Myself’, will be launched at the NAF Conference Centre, Abuja, on Tuesday, 13 May 2025.

Addressing the media yesterday in Abuja, Chairman of the Sule

Lamido Book Launch Committee, Senator Mustapha Khabeeb, said the event will offer a nuanced exploration of Nigeria’s complex political history, spanning the Second Republic’s final years, military intervention, transition arrangements, and the tumultuous dawn of the Fourth Republic.

According to him, the event will allow the former governor to present his book, which encapsulates both his personal and Nigeria’s political, democratic, and governance history, reflecting the nation’s journey towards development and its current challenges.

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Group Sports Editor: Duro Ikhazuagbe Email: duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com

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Two Arab Teams Agree to Pay Osimhen’s Transfer Clause Saudi’s Al Hilal, UAE’s Al Ain in battle to sign the Super Eagles striker

Speculations have continued to gather momentum over the future of Victor Osimhen when his loan deal with Galatasaray

is up this summer with latest reports now linking the striker with big-spending clubs in Saudi Arabia and UAE.

C H A M P I O N S L E AG U E

Inter Win Final Ticket, to Face PSG or Arsenal Inter Milan qualified for the final of the UEFA Champions League last night with a dramatic extra time 4-3 (7-6 aggregate) defeat of Barcelona in San Siro.

As the last Italian side to lift the Champions League way back in 2010, Inter will be heading to the final in Munich on May 31 for the second time in three seasons.

Federico Dimarco threw San Siro into a rancorous celebration when he stole the ball off Dani Olmo in the midfield and slid through Denzel Dumfries, who rolled it across to Lautaro Martinez for a simple stroke into the empty net for the opening goal of the night.

Inter were on top before the break with two goals under their belt but they looked completely out of it as Barca took a 3-2 lead. Hansi Flick’s side looked set for a first Champions League final in a decade but a late

get the cash not later than June.

It stressed thatNapoli needed the cash from Osimhen’s transfer to finance new signings for the new season.

It is now known fact that Napoli Coach, Antonio Conte, has been unhappy that the former Serie A champions lost top star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to PSG and failed to land some of their top transfer targets in January.

With three games to end of the Italian Serie A season, Napoli are on top of the log on 77 points with Inter Milan (74 points) and Atalanta (68 points) on their heels.

A win will return Napoli to the UEFA Champions League and will need to reinforce to make impact in Europe’s top club competition if Osimhen who was frustrated out of the squad last summer exits Naples.

RESULTS Inter 4-3 Barcelona

(Qualify 7-6 aggregate)

Today

PSG v Arsenal

U20 AFCON

Nigeria v Kenya Tunisia v Morocco

acquisition of a state-of-the-art mobile cancer screening bus and the provision of radiotherapy treatments for patients who lack access to adequate healthcare.

Over 100 golfers are expected to participate in this year’s tournament, competing in teams of four in a spirited team format. Among the participants will be cancer survivors.

Leading the lineup is the event’s star attraction, Farooq Oreagba, fondly known as “King Steeze.”

A Cancer survivor and passionate advocate for awareness, his involvement in the tournament is expected to inspire participants and spectators alike, highlighting the importance of survivorship and the transformative power of support.

MTN CHAMPS Grand Final Kicks off in Style in Uyo Day 1 of the MTN CHAMPS Grand Final in Uyo took off in spectacular fashion at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, featuring a range of events across different categories, including the Senior and Junior 400m races, and the Youth 100m, among others.

Reigning NDDC Sports Festival Champion, Victor Sampson, was the fastest overall qualifier in the men’s 400m, racing to a time 46.55s, followed

by Johnson Nnamani (47.00s) and Michael Ighogboja (47.54s).

In the women’s 400m, Odot Udo clocked the only sub-54 performance to dominate the category, returning a Personal Best (PB) time of 53.85s ahead of Rhoda Adisa who also clocked a lifetime best of 54.01s, and Rita Munachiso third overall in 54.69s.

Fresh from his gold-medal winning feat at MTN CHAMPS, Team MTN’s Ezekiel Asuquo breezed through his race, posting a time of 48.00s to win his heat in the fastest time overall in the Junior men’s 400m over Chidiebere Obed (49.33s) and

Napoli want to offload Osimhen as soon as possible so that they could use the cash from his sale to fund their own in-coming transfers this summer as they prepare to return to the UEFA Champions League next season.

Italian news outlet,II Mattino, reported couple of days ago that Napoli will accept 65 Million Euros from Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal for Osimhen, but on condition they

equaliser in normal time and an extra-time winner puts Inter there for the second time in three seasons.

Inter Milan will face either Paris St-Germain or Arsenal in the final.

In the other semifinal tonight in Paris, Arsenal’s Declan Rice has said that the Gunners need “big balls” and “magic moments” if they are to overturn their semi-final 1-0 deficit against Paris St-Germain and reach the Champions League final.

Cancer Survivors, Others Swing Against the Scourge in Lagos In a continued effort to inspire hope and raise awareness for cancer prevention, the Foundation for Cancer Care, is set to host the 3rd edition of its annual charity golf tournament, Swing Against Cancer Golf Day, on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at the Ikoyi Golf Club.

The event will bring together survivors, supporters, and advocates united by a shared commitment to fighting cancer through golf.

The tournament not only serves as a platform for friendly competition but also plays a vital role in supporting the Foundation’s critical outreach and treatment programmes.

This year’s event aims to raise funds for two key initiatives: the

Italian newspaper La Repubbicareported yesterday that Al Hilal of Saudi Arabia and Al Ain in UAE have serious interest in the 26-year-old striker so much so they will pay Napoli his release clause of 75 Million Euros.

Both clubs will feature in the expanded FIFA Club World Cup and plan to get Osimhen off the transfer market as early as next month.

Stephen Adejumo (49.57s).

In the women’s race, Miracle Sonny ran a time of 54.75s in Heat 1 to become the quickest across all heats. Elizabeth Olumide (54.85s) and Team MTN’s Toheebat Jimoh (55.83s) were the next top finishers overall.

Onyemechi Peter Onoriode narrowly missed the Youth Boys’ 100m Championships Record (CR) of 11.09 set by Team MTN’s Alvin Onyeama in Season 1 of the competition, crossing the line in 11.10s to boast of the fastest time amongst other qualifiers.

Team MVP’s duo of Tunmise Ebimetan (11.34s) and Akolo Emmanuel (11.36s) followed closely.

For the Youths Girls’ 100m, Team MVP led the way with the three overall fastest times: Enilolobo Rebecca (12.64s), Bernice Onoriode (12.69s), and Promise Egbebe (12.71s).

The standings at the end of Day 1 saw Delta Secondary School lead with 10 points in the Youth women’s category, with Charity School (8 points), Ikot Ibiok Girls (6 points) and West Itam (5 points) following.

L-R: Ex-International, Chief Segun Odegbami, receiving his letter of appointment as the Grand Sports Ambassador from the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun at the Olusegun Osoba Press Center on Tuesday, during the media briefing on the forthcoming National Sports Festival to be hosted by the state

Gov Abiodun: Gateway Games Will Be New Benchmark for National Sports Festival Appoints Odegbami as Grand Sports Ambassador of Ogun State

Duro Ikhazuagbe The Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has promised that the National Sports Festival scheduled to be hosted by the state beginning from May 16 through May 31, 2025 will become the new benchmark in the history of the sports fiesta.

Speaking yesterday while addressing sports journalists in the Governor’s Office Press Centre in Abeokuta, Prince Abiodun insisted that Ogun State was ready to host the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to a memorable Games like never before.

He emphasised that Ogun was deliberate in choosing to host the 22nd National Sports Festival, now dubbed Gateway Games, as a way of showing to the rest of the country the great strides that have taken place in the state since 2006 when it first hosted.

“When we bidded to host, we were very deliberate about it. We have developed our infrastructures, improved massively on security, and other areas now than when Ogun first hosted in 2006. Now that we have moved into upgrading our tourism, culture and sports infrastructure, we believe that we have all that it takes to host a games like no other,” stressed the Ogun State Governor.

Prince Abiodun said that it was also deliberate to have all the 10,000 athletes from the 36 states and the FCT in one Games Village as a way of creating unity amongst youths in the country.

“We are aware sports unite the people despite our various differences.

This is why we are going to house and fed all the athletes coming to Ogun State for the Games in on place.

It’s going to be a Games Village, and that’s like Olympics standard.

“We have also put the best security and transportation in place to ensure smooth transit to and from the Games Village and the venues for all the events,” the Governor hinted.

He commended members of the

Local Organising Committee (LOC) for working round the clock to ensure that facilities earmarked for the Gateway Games are of World-class standard. ‘”The LOC and government have been working day and night to put finishing touches to our preparations.

I can boldly say we are ready. “ Meanwhile, Governor Abiodun unveiled Nigeria’s former football captain and an African legendary star, Chief Segun Odegbami, as the Grand

Sports Ambassador of Ogun State.

Also appointed as ambassadors are athlete Tobi Amusan and former boxing heavyweight champion, Anthony Joshua.

Prince Abiodun presented certificate of appointment to Chief Odegbami, whose activities will go beyond the National Sports Festival.

“Permit me to use this opportunity to perform this ceremony of unveiling Chief Segun Odegbami as our grand sports ambassador.

...Delta Governor Receives National Sports Festival ‘Torch Of Unity’ Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State on Tuesday in Asaba received the Torch of Unity from the National Sports Commission, towards the 22nd National Sports Festival scheduled to hold in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, the governor stressed the importance of peace and unity, noting that sports competition has remained a unifying factor in Nigeria.

Oborevwori urged Delta State athletes, as defending champions, to prepare thoroughly for the tournament and brace up for the true spirit of excellence as they get ready for the Abeokuta meet.

The governor said, “Our young

athletes and the entire sporting community in Delta State, as the defending champions, I charge you to uphold the spirit of excellence and discipline.

“You are the pride of our state and the future of our great nation.

“Delta State has consistently remained at the forefront of sporting excellence in Nigeria.

“We are immensely proud of our legacy, hosting and triumphantly winning the 2022 edition of the National Sports Festival, and nurturing some of the finest athletes who continue to make us proud on the national and global stages.

“Let this moment also serve as a powerful reminder that, despite our diverse cultures and backgrounds, we are united by the Nigerian spirit:

stronger together and driven by common dreams and aspirations.

“I commend the National Sports Commission and Ogun State, the host of the 22nd National Sports Festival, for sustaining this noble tradition and for continuing to promote the ideals of national unity and sporting excellence.

“As we receive this torch today, may it ignite in us a renewed sense of hope, passion, and national pride,” stressed the governor.

Earlier, the Chairman, Delta State Sports Commission. Mr. Onoriode Oborevwori, in a welcome address, lauded the state government’s immense contribution to the development of sports in the state, noting that the torch represents peace, unity and true spirit of sportsmanship.

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HONOURING LATE PASCAL DOZIE...

L-R: President and Chairman of Council, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Mr. Gabriel Idahosa; Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), Mr. Jude Chiemeka; Immediate Past Group CEO, Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group), Mr. Oscar Onyema; Past President of Council, NSE, Dr. Raymond Obieri; Director, NGX Group, Mrs. Fatima Wali-Abdurrahman; Chairman, Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), Mr. Niyi Yusuf; Grandson of Late Pascal Dozie, Mr. Chidi Dozie; Group Chairman, NGX Group, Alhaji (Dr.) Umaru Kwairanga; sons of Late Pascal Dozie, Mr. Uzoma Dozie and Mr. Kelechi Dozie; GMD/CEO, NGX Group, Mr. Temi Popoola; Chairman, NGX RegCo, Mr. Olufemi Akinsanya; GMD/CEO, Futureview Financial Services Ltd, Mrs. Elizabeth Ebi; Former Interim Administrator, NSE, Mr. Emmanuel Ikazoboh; and Publisher, BusinessDay, Mr. Frank Aigbogun, during an afternoon of tributes and special closing gong ceremony in honour of the late Pascal Dozie in Lagos, yesterday

KayodeKomolafe The Horizon

kayode.komolafe@thisdaylive.com

0805 500 1974

Lamido in His Own Words

I

t was Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka who sometime ago introduced the sarcasm of “please quote me in my own words” into the public sphere. The irony should be obvious: how else could a man be quoted except in his own words? Soyinka has employed the phrase to respond to the frequent attribution of false statements to him by unscrupulous elements who attempt to rig legitimacy into their views by giving those positions the Soyinka signature. Unforunately, the activities of persons “quoting” Soyinka in their own words have not abated in the permissive world of social media. This trend triggered the publication of the series entitled “Interventions,” by which Soyinka now responds to specific topics of public debate.

In fact, long before the advent of the social media, some eminent public figures were not content with speaking to reporters when granting interviews. They would insist on writing their responses to the questions from media houses.

Perhaps, former governor of Jigawa State and one-time foreign minister, Alhaji Sule Lamido, had in mind this extreme distortion of history arising from the perversion in the social sphere when he embarked on writing his memoirs entitled “Being True to Myself.”

By writing his own story, Lamido has offered history a self-definition of his political personality.

This book will remain clearly distinguishable from other versions of the Lamido story which may be told by others. To that extent he has done a great justice to himself and posterity. In other words, Lamido may not need to plead henceforth that “quote me in my own words.”

Not many Nigerian politicians can lay claim to political traditions. Yet there are identifiable political traditions of different origins in the history of Nigerian politics. Lamido is indisputably among the view politicians that could be traced to a political tradition that is undeniably progressive.

And he is very proud of this background. A man of organisation, Lamido is also among the vanishing breed of politicians who take the fidelity to political parties seriously. To be sure, if there is one politician who would not defect from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), that politician is certainly Sule Lamido, the prince from Bamaina in Jigawa state! As one of the founders of the PDP, Lamido has remained committed to the party through thick and thin of the stormy waters of Nigerian politics. The progressive streak has been discernible in Lamido’s politics all through his career. In the Second Republic he was elected to the House of Representatives on the platform of the People’s Redemption Party (PRP), a party that had the heritage of the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU) whose leader was the legendary populist, Mallam Aminu Kano.

To the people, NEPU was simply the party of the “talakawa,” the poor. During the transition

Sule Lamido

programme of President Ibrahim Babangida, Lamido was elected the national secretary of the “little to the left” Social Democratic Party (SDP). In this dispensation the PDP cannot, of course, be accused of being a party of the Left.

Yet Lamido, as a PDP governor in Jigawa did something that was reminiscent of his NEPU political ancestry. Long before the idea of cash transfer as a social protection instrument was embraced by the federal government, Lamido’s administration in Jigawa had a programme of giving stipend to the most vulnerable in the state based an authentic social register. The programme expectedly generated an avalanche of criticisms from the right-wing elite who argued that the money given to the poor could be better invested in cottage industries and other economic alternatives.

Lamido countered the technicist arguments on a philosophical basis. He explained that the organising principle underlying the programme was the respect for the dignity of human person and not economic calculus. In any case, the beneficiaries were living on begging; some of them without limbs were carried in wheelbarrows to line the streets. Such persons were not in the position to engage in productive activities even if the jobs were available. The idea of the cash transfer was to keep the beggars off the streets while the stipend is taken to the poor in a dignified manner. Here we are talking of the poorest of the poor. Anyone who was already a dependant on another person, who earning income, was disqualified from receiving the stipend because of limited resources.

Such is the nature of the politics of Lamido

whose autobiography will be launched in Abuja next Tuesday.

The composition of the committee organising the book launch says something about the breadth of Lamido’s politics.

The committee chaired by Senator Mustapha Khabeeb has Dr. Aminu Abdullahi Taura as secretary. Other distinguished members of the organising committee are Senator Ibrahim Musa Kazaure, Ambassador Joe Keshi, Ambassador John Shankaiye, Hon. Musa Elayo, Iyom Josephine Anenih, Hajiya Inna Ciroma, Hajiya Zainab Maina, Professor Tijjani Naniya, Dr. Max Ndugi Abe, Dr. Auwalu Anwar, Dr. Akilu Sani Indabawa, Alhaji Mustapha Sule Lamido, Dr. Babandi Ibrahim, Prof. Nu’uman, Alhaji Ahmed Amin, Alhaji Ismaila Omipidan, Umar Kyari Jitau and Umar Danjani.

Below is a foretaste of the book launch given yesterday at a press conference by Senator Khabeeb: “Sule Lamido’s autobiography, for which he gives the intriguing title BEING TRUE TO MYSELF, takes the reader through a revealing story on the making of what he has become today - a versatile, au courant, urbane, cosmopolitan, knowledgeable, dynamic, highly principled and dedicated leader and public servant who has given his all towards the making of modern-day Nigeria. As an elder statesman now, Sule Lamido has done well to document this revealing and remarkable experience, which has taken him to the nooks and corners of our country and beyond. He revealed how this has enabled him to build an enormous clientele of friendship and association with people from all parts of the country and internationally. His calling initially in the private sector before joining the political fray revealed itself in his rich pattern of relationships.

“It is worthwhile for everyone to recognize that Sule Lamido’s character and disposition took root from his typically innocent Fulani nature of truthfulness, of seeing life with pure simplicity devoid of flamboyance or pretence. But, it is also a disposition of not being given to condescending or patronising attitude from anyone - no matter their social standing. His is a character that has also been moulded and imbued with a sense of honour, sincerity and honesty, typical of a blue blood pedigree.

“Viewed from this antecedent, Sule can easily be excused for his bold, blunt truthfulness when it comes to speaking his mind on any given issue, to anybody, no matter how highly placed.

“President Olusegun Obasanjo discovered these attributes early in Sule and probably was one reason for the enormous confidence he had in him to make Sule Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister.

“Besides writing a foreword to BEING TRUE TO MYSELF, the former President is also the Special Guest of Honour at next Tuesday’s occasion.

“So, did the author of BEING TRUE TO MYSELF

have a central role and say in all other political arrangements that culminated in the formation of the Peoples Democratic Party? Indeed, Sule was a founding member who has tenaciously stuck with the party to this day.

“Many other colleagues of his have since switched camps, some several times. Sule Lamido, Muhammadu Abubakar Rimi, Dr Iyorchia Ayu , the book reviewer next Tuesday, all played key roles at the Jos Convention which produced Obasanjo as the presidential candidate and later as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 1999.

“BEING TRUE TO MYSELF will surely resonate not only with students of history and politics, but with every Nigerian who still believes in the politics of principles and the promise of a better Nigeria.”

Doubtless, Lamido’s autobiograpghy is a welcome addition to the corpus of memoirs of those individuals who have played significant roles in the making (and unmaking?) of Nigeria.

This is more so given the shallowness often displayed in the public shere about even the recent history of the nation. There are indeed untold stories of Nigeria. How enriching would it have been to history if General Yakubu Gowon and Dim Emeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu could write their respective memoirs on the civil war.

Those who have stories to tell should write from their various perspectives. President Muhammadu Buhari, who was in charge of the Nigerian state cumulatively for nine years and eight months, said he would not write his memoirs because doing so would make some people unhappy. On the contrary, from whatever prism through which Babangida’s memoirs, “A Journey in Service: An Autobiography,” is read, the point is that the former president has told his own story. And he is very lucky to do so.

This reporter, as a member of a three-man team which interviewed Babangida 27 years ago in Minna, posed the question of what the general thought the verdict of history would be on him in the light of the criticisms from various quarters. Babangida’s response was that there would be many versions of the history. Now, it is difficult to fault that assertion, which is far from being cryptic as the former president is often described.

Some philosophers of history object to Thomas Carlyle’s argument that the “history of the world is the biograpghy of great men.” Yet, it is indubitable that the insights and arguments from the various biographies of individuals who have played important roles in history would constitute some of the veritable materials to be used by professional historians for the construction of a grand history of Nigeria.

Here lies the significance of Lamido’s memoirs.

So, saying congratulations to Alhaji Sule Lamido will be in order.

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