President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and prominent figures across Nigeria’s public and private sectors yesterday paid tributes to Chief Pascal Gabriel
Dozie, the founder of the defunct Diamond Bank and pioneer Chairman of MTN Nigeria, who died yesterday, a day before his 86th birthday.
Tinubu extended his heartfelt condolences to the Dozie family, the business community, and all Nigerians on the passing of the elder statesman, Continued on page 9
entrepreneur, and banker. His son and founder of Sparkle
Sheriff Oborevwori,
the
Ndume: Tinubu Has Borrowed $9.45bn for Spurious Projects Bypassing N’Assembly Presidency refutes claims, says senator allergic to facts, addicted to theatrics
on page 9
After Slamming 14% Tariff, US Kicks against Nigeria’s Import Ban on 25 Product Categories
Says customs practices constitute major obstacles to trade Declares procurement processes corrupt, non-transparent, picks holes in maritime administration Hails CBN for collapsing multiple official exchange rates into single window, says funds repatriation remains barrier to investment
Emmanuel Addeh and James Emejo in Abuja
It emerged yesterday that the 14 percent tariff recently imposed by the United States President, Donald Trump on Nigeria was mainly in protest of the latter’s import ban on 25 different product categories which had impacted US exporters. The Office of United States Trade Representative (USTR) had noted that the ban, particularly in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, beverages, and consumer goods, negatively impacted US trade balance with Nigeria.
This is just as the Trump announced that a 104 percent tariff on goods from China will go into effect today following China’s retaliatory 34% import fee on American products.
Writing yesterday on its X handle, the US Office condemned Nigeria’s restrictions on beef, pork, poultry, fruit juices, medicaments, and spirits,
Continued on page 9
CONDOLENCE VISIT...
& REASON
Deji Elumoye in Abuja, Nume Ekeghe in Lagos and Tony Icheku in Owerri
L-R: Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) Chairman / Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq; Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umar Radda; Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo; and Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, during the NGF’s condolence visit to Governor Radda over the death of his mother, Hajiya Safara’u Umaru Baribari, in Katsina, yesterday
during
State Governors’ Roundtable Session: Unlocking Opportunities in Lagos and Enugu States at the 2025 Commonwealth Trade and Investment Summit (CTIS), held at the Old Ballroom, Mansion House, London, on Tuesday, 8 April 2025
Late Pascal Dozie
Continued
Deji Elumoye and Chuks Okocha in Abuja
Senator Mohammed Ndume has accused President Bola Tinubu of bypassing the National Assembly
‘NNPC/FIRST E&P IMPACT FIRST’ GRANT PRESENTATION EVENT...
L-R: Executive Director, Corporate Services, FIRST Exploration and Petroleum Development Company Limited (FIRST E&P), Emmanuel Etomi; Executive Director, Health Emergency Initiative (HEI), Paschal Achunine; Founder, Cerebral Palsy Centre, Nonye Nweke; Founder, Street To School Initiative, Olowoyeye Tosin; Program Director, Health and Development Support Programmes HANDS), Innocent Emereuwa; and Lead, Community Relations, NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), Loveday Minanengiyeofori at the 2025 ‘NNPC/FIRST E&P Impact FIRST’ Grant
Presentation event in Lagos, where 12 NGOs received funding at the weekend
Assets Deployed to Boost Long-term Financing for Real Sector
James Emejo in Abuja
Director General of the National Pension Commission (PenCom), Ms. Omolola Oloworaran, yesterday revealed that the Nigerian pension industry has committed a total of N5.51 trillion to asset classes that support long-term financing for real sector growth.
Oloworaran gave the figures during a meeting with a delegation from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), led by its Senior Financial Sector Expert, Mr. Jose De Luna.
The visit on Monday was part of the Fund’s 2025 Article IV Consultations.
The IMF staff held discussions with the commission’s key officials on matters relating to the pension industry and broader financial sector developments, according to a statement by PenCom.
Oloworaran, further explained that the real sector investments spanned infrastructure, private equity vehicles, real estate, and subnational infrastructure initiatives, among others.
Represented by the Head, Surveillance Department, Abdulrahaman Muhammad Saleem, the director general told the delegation that pension fund investments in the real sector of the economy are indicative of the industry’s vital role in providing funding for key economic growth and development in Nigeria.
In a presentation to the delegation, PenCom said the industry Net Asset Value (NAV) increased
by 22.65 per cent from N18.36 trillion as of 31 December 2023 to N22.51 trillion as of December 31, 2024.
The growth was attributable to additional contributions received and investment income.
The DG however, decried the limited availability of investable instruments that meet the minimum requirements for pension funds’ investments in Nigeria currently.
She told the delegation that only 86 investable instruments, constituting part of the pension broad index, meet the minimum quality requirement for pension fund investments that are liquid and have the required free float.
This is despite the numerous provisions made in the Investment Regulation to foster increased eligible investment outlets.
Going forward, the commission said it will continue to collaborate with capital market operators to broaden the spectrum of eligible financial instruments for pension fund investments.
The initiative aims to further diversify portfolios and enhance real returns.
Additionally, the commission will promote increased pension fund investment in alternative asset classes.
These efforts are intended to strengthen the overall investment portfolio and reinforce the longterm growth and sustainability of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).
During the meeting, PenCom
also presented key developments within the pension industry, focusing on investment strategies, asset quality concerns, financing for growth, and regulatory challenges.
Noteworthy was the commission’s commitment to fostering the development of diverse asset
classes and securities eligible for pension fund investments.
This initiative involved collaboration with entities such as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Debt Management Office (DMO) and the Pension Fund Operators
Association of Nigeria (PenOp).
The IMF delegation expressed satisfaction with PenCom’s ongoing efforts to diversify pension fund investments, the statement added.
In addition, the fund commended PenCom’s regulation
and supervision of the pension industry in Nigeria. The IMF praised the commission for the remarkable growth achieved within Nigeria’s pension industry, recognising its pivotal role in driving positive momentum and ensuring long-term sustainability.
Tinubu’s Policies Moving Nigeria Towards Food Sufficiency, Says Bagudu
Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan
The Minister of Budget and National Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, yesterday said President Bola Tinubu’s policies are steadily moving the country’s agriculture towards mechanisation, agro-industrialisation, and global market integration through improved line budgeting, infrastructure investment, access to better financing, and public-private sector synergy.
The Minister while delivering a keynote address at the distinguished personality lecture series of the Department of Agricultural Economics, University of Ibadan, said the incremental success of the policies were evident in the latest National Bureau of Statistics report, which showed encouraging signs for the economy and the agriculture sector.
According to him, with GDP growth of 3.84 percent in Q4 2024 — surpassing the 3.46 percent recorded in Q4 2023 and Q3 2024 — the country was witnessing fruits of President
Coastal Highway: Winhomes Boss Tackles Works
Minister Over Comments on $250m Diaspora Investment
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
A real estate developer, Stella Ifeoma Okengwu, has challenged the Minister of Works, David Umahi, to obey the pending court order instead of demanding details of the $250 million invested by Nigerians in the Diaspora in her firm to own houses in the Okun Ajah area of Lagos State. Okengwu, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Winhomes Global Services Limited, in a statement issued yesterday, said it was wrong of the Minister to ask her to publish the financial records of diaspora investors from whom she raised the multi-million dollars to fund the Winhomes project.
She described Umahi’s demand as a distraction from the main issue.
According to Okengwu, the main
bone of contention was the minister’s lack of respect for the rule of law by refusing to obey the Court order on the matter.
Okengwu added, “The minister should first address the issue of the pending court order and explain in details the reason behind his refusal to obey a valid court order. It’s a straightforward issue.
“The minister should tell Nigerians why the illegal diversion from the 2006 Coastal Road alignment into Winhomes property.
“Not only that, Umahi should back his claims with legal authorisation from the relevant authorities including the Presidency, Lagos State Government, the National Assembly or the Lagos State House of Assembly.”
Okengwu added that she would not be intimidated or bow to pressure
in her pursuits of justice and fairness.
“Despite the ongoing controversy surrounding the Lagos-Calabar Highway project, we are committed to working collaboratively with government entities, but this must be grounded in legality and fairness,” She stated.
The Works Minister had recently called out Okengwu at a stakeholders’ meeting held in Lagos.
Umahi had while commenting on the Lagos-Calabar Highway controversy said, “There’s one Mrs. Ifeoma Okengwu who goes to African restaurants in America and pays people little sums of money, saying she invested $250 million.
“If she collects the $250 million those who paid to her should hold her responsible, as nothing has been done on the land, just a gatehouse.”
Tinubu’s bold economic reforms.
He disclosed that while the services sector led the growth at 5.37 percent, contributing 57.38 percent to GDP, agriculture’s 1.76 percent growth and 25.59 percent contribution remain vital.
He added, “These figures reveal both progress and the untapped potential in our agricultural industry, which employs over 70 percent of our rural population and holds immense promise for poverty reduction, food security, and industrialisation.
“This sector’s appreciable outcome has benefited from this administration’s policy consistency, which prioritised improved budgetary funding and access to finance, increasing technological innovation and mechanisation, climate resilience, infrastructure development, publicprivate partnership, and improved security.”
The Minister maintained that the agricultural sector has enjoyed increased budgetary allocation under Tinubu’s administration, noting that it has continued on upward trend from N228.4 billion (1.05% of the 2023 budget) to N362.94 billion (1.32% of the 2024 budget), and N826.5 billion (1.7% of the 2025 budget).
“This is in addition to the N100 billion National Agricultural Development Fund, which the President created in 2023 to address agricultural financing challenges upon declaring a state of emergency in the sector.
“The Central Bank of Nigeria also donated 2.15 million bags of fertilizer worth N100 billion to support farming”, he said.
He said with the improved funding, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has been implementing innovative programmes, including the National Agriculture Growth SchemeAgro-pocket, where millions of farmers are supported through training on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), certified inputs such as improved seeds and organic and inorganic fertilizers and irrigation equipment at highly subsidised prices to enhance their production, increase productivity and ultimately, guarantee higher incomes for farmers.
The World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Dr. Ndiame Diop, in his lecture titled, “Leveraging Agricultural Transformation for Sustainable Economic Development in Nigeria: Key Considerations,” said with expected growth of Nigeria working population
hitting about 100million in the next 25 years, the rapid increase presents a unique opportunity for the country to become a major driver of economic growth.
According to Diop, the growth would surpass Africa and transcend globally considering the aging population in East Asia and Europe. However, realising the potentials, he said, hinges on Nigeria’s ability to generate millions of additional productive and formal employment opportunities for its increasing educated and tech-savvy young people. Speaking, Diop said Nigeria’s economy needs to not only grow at a faster pace but also undergo a transformation, noting that the transformation must accelerate the movement of workers from low productivity, low-paying and often informal jobs to more productive and higher-paying positions. He highlighted how agricultural transformation strengthens the overall competitiveness of the economy, drawing on economic theory and real-world examples to emphasise its vital role in successful economic transformation and the path to higher income levels.
NASENI, Caverton Launch Training of Female Staff on Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) and Caverton Helicopters have commenced the second batch of training for 10 selected female engineers and scientists from NASENI system-wide in Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) technology.
The six-week training programme. which kicked off on Monday, at Caverton’s training school in Ikeja, Lagos, is part of the NASENI-Caverton (NASCAV) ongoing partnership agreement to strengthen the aviation
mandate of NASENI, a statement by the Director Information, NASENI, Olusegun Ayeoyenikan, stated.
The training, NASENI said, is a key component of the SHEFLY project, a pioneering initiative by the Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Halilu, aimed at empowering rural women to leverage drone technology for precision farming and increased agricultural yields.
In his remarks, Team Lead, NASCAV project, Dr. Abayomi Okesola, who spoke on behalf of NASENI management, welcomed
the trainees to the training exercise with Caverton, saying that they are worthy partners due to their impressive track record in aviation and marine spaces.
He said the SHEFLY project is a valuable initiative to promote women in STEM fields and bridge the existing gender gap, stressing that the selection of female trainees from the various institutes across different zones was a deliberate effort to enable them manage clusters that will be set up to train rural women in drone technology for enhanced agricultural activities nationwide.
LISABI DAY COMES ALIVE IN ABEOKUTA...
FG Inaugurates NISO Board, CEO Pledges to
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The federal government yesterday inaugurated the board of the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO), describing it as a significant step in its effort to restructure and strengthen Nigeria’s electricity sector in line with the Electricity Act, 2023.
NISO, established through the unbundling of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), as prescribed by the Electricity Act 2003, is responsible for managing market and system operations, including generation scheduling, grid security, and ancillary services, to ensure a reliable and stable electricity grid.
On March 19, President Bola Tinubu appointed the executive and non-executive board members for the newly established NISO, chaired by Dr. Adesegun Akin-Olugbade, with Mr. Abdu Mohammed Bello as Managing Director and Chief Executive, after a selection process overseen by Phillips Consulting.
The president also appointed four Executive Directors: Nafisatu Asabe Ali for Systems Operation, Shehu Abba-Aliyu for Systems Planning, Dr. Edmund Eje for Market Operations, and Mr. Babajide Ibironke for Finance and Corporate Services.
The non-executive Directors included Lamu Audu, representing Generation; Mrs Folake Soetan for Distribution; Mr Tajudeen Giwa-Osagie as Market Expert; Engineer Sule
Ahmed Abdulaziz for Transmission; and Mahmuda Mamman, Permanent Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Power.
Speaking at an induction ceremony overseen by the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), in Abuja, shortly after he was inaugurated by Vice President Kashim Shettima at State House, Abuja, Bello stated that the new organisation will see to it that the needed changes in the power sector were made quickly.
The new chief executive of NISO stated that with the creation of the body, the leadership will ensure the creation of an atmosphere of transparency, discipline, and orderliness in the electricity business in Nigeria.
He said that meant participants in generation, transmission, distribution, and eligible customers will behave in a passionate and professional manner in line with the provisions of the market rules and the grid code.
Bello stated, “Our major role in the power industry is to bring the needed changes in the system that will enhance availability, reliability, and quality of supply of electricity to Nigerians. In addition to that, we’re supposed to create an atmosphere, an environment of transparency, discipline, and orderliness in the electricity business in Nigeria.
“This means that participants in generation, transmission, distribution, and eligible customers behave in a passionate manner in line with the
provisions of the market rules and the grid code.
“The coming on board of the NISO board of management will usher in these qualities that are required to make the power sector tick, just like other power sectors in bigger jurisdictions. Now it’s a journey. It’s not a one-off business. The beginning of the journey starts today.”
Promising to “hit the ground running”, Bello stated that the next port of call will be Osogbo, where the National Control Centre (NCC) is located, to make sure that operators
were aligned with the vision, mission, objectives, and goals of the Electricity Act, 2023.
He stated, “Furthermore, we’re going to have interfaces with generation companies, with the Transmission Service Provider (TSP), with the distribution companies, and eligible customers. Those interfaces must be coordinated well, managed well, to make sure that the generation of electricity, transmission of electricity, distribution, and utilisation of electricity is in line with the rules and is in favour of the numerous
Nigerian customers.”
He thanked the Tinubu and Shettima, who heads the National Council on Privatisation (NCP), for trusting in the new team’s ability to change the course of the electricity industry.
Bello said, “They championed this exercise to the point that over 100 candidates applied for the post of MD of NISO. But through scrutiny, transparency, ruggedness, firmness, focus, we were able to reach this level today.
“We understand the challenges in the industry, and we’re going
to tackle them pragmatically and systematically. We’re going to deal with these problems. It’s a journey, we’re starting from somewhere, and gradually, definitely with speed and quality, we shall be there to make sure that Nigerians enjoy a steady, reliable electricity supply in the nearest period.”
Earlier, in his welcome remarks at State House, Director-General of BPE, Mr. Ariyo Gbeleyi, said the event aligned with the current administration’s vision for an efficient, reliable, and competitive electricity market.
Taiwan: House Committee Reaffirms Nigeria’s Support for One-China Policy
The House of Representatives Committee on China-Nigeria Parliamentary Relations has reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to the One-China Policy, recognizing Taiwan as an integral part of the People’s Republic of China.
The Committee Chairman, Hon. Jaafaru Yakubu, made the statement on Tuesday in response to remarks
attributed to the Head of Taiwan’s Trade Mission in Nigeria, Andy Yih-Ping Liu.
Liu’s recently assertion that Taiwan is not part of China was dismissed by the lawmaker as propaganda intended to undermine the strong and mutually beneficial diplomatic relationship between Nigeria and China.
He said: “For the record, United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758, adopted in 1971, recognized the People’s Republic of China as the sole legitimate representative of the whole China, including Taiwan.”
He added: “The One-China Policy remains the cornerstone of ChinaNigeria relations. Since establishing
diplomatic ties in 1971, Nigeria has consistently honored this principle. Efforts by Taiwan’s trade office to challenge this stance are futile and will not succeed.”
The chairman criticized Liu’s comments as an attempt to draw Nigeria into China’s internal affairs, insisting that it is a deliberate move to sow discord and provoke a diplomatic rift. He noted that: “Nigeria’s relationship with China is built on mutual respect and non-interference in each other’s political matters.”
On Liu’s claim that Beijing acts as a bully, Hon. Yakubu highlighting the positive trajectory of Nigeria-China cooperation that has shown mutual respect, said: “Contrary to these base-
less assertions, Nigeria has enjoyed a mutually beneficial partnership with China, yielding tangible results for both nations.
“Since 1971, our ties have grown significantly. In 2024, during the FOCAC Summit in Beijing, we elevated this relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Today, Nigeria stands as China’s second-largest trading partner in Africa, with bilateral trade surpassing $20 billion.
“China has also played a critical role in Nigeria’s infrastructural modernization through substantial investments in various sectors, including rail networks, road construction, ports, power stations, and water treatment facilities,” he added.
The current influx of investors to Ogun State has yet to abate, as another recycling plant for the production of aluminium and copper ingots has been established in the state.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Neveah Ltd, Mr. Ibidapo Lawal, stated this on Monday after a meeting with Governor Dapo Abiodun in his office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
Lawal noted that the multimillion-dollar recycling plant, when fully operational and at full capacity, would generate over $150 million annually and employ more than 500 people.
He said the plant would recycle aluminium scraps from car engines, cans, and other metals into ADC 12 and export them to
car manufacturing companies in Asia, Japan, Indonesia, and a host of others.
He said: “The plant is situated in Mowe, and it will employ more than 500 people, thereby creating jobs locally and also contributing to the development of Ogun State and Nigeria as a whole. It will account for about 2.53 per cent of the entire non-oil export for Nigeria.
“Initially, this project was meant to be situated in the north, but we chose Ogun because of its proximity to ports like Tincan, Apapa, and, of course, Lekki.
“Apart from that, you think in terms of capital appreciation. Unlike any other state, you look at the return you are going to get in terms of investment. Ogun is very close to Lagos, and you can see
that the price of land and property keeps appreciating.”
The Chief Executive Officer maintained that the availability of skilled labor and expatriates, infrastructure like a good road network, as well as abundance of gas, led to the decision to choose Ogun State for setting up the business.
“Another thing is the availability of gas. If we set up our plant in another state, we would probably have to power our plant using diesel, but in Ogun State, gas is available - so it is cheaper for us,” Lawal added.
He said his meeting with the governor was to brief him on the progress of work at the site and to seek his support for the successful takeoff of the plant.
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Donald Trump administration plans to fine migrants under deportation orders up to $998 a day if they fail to leave the United States and to seize their property if they do not pay, according to documents reviewed by Reuters yesterday. The fines stem from a 1996 law that was enforced for the first time in 2018, during Trump’s first term in office. The Trump
Reuters, U.S. Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement that immigrants in the U.S. illegally should use a mobile app formerly known as CBP One - rebranded as CBP Home under Trump - to “self deport and leave the country now.”
“If they don’t, they will face the consequences,” McLaughlin said. “This includes a fine of $998 per day for every day that the illegal alien overstayed their final deportation order,” McLaughlin added. Emails reviewed showed the White House has pressed U.S. Customs and Border Protection to handle the issue of penalties, property seizures for migrants who don’t pay, and the sale of their assets. The Department of Justice’s civil asset forfeiture division could be another option for the seizures, one email said.
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
L-R: Former Governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun; Former President, Olusegun Obasanjo; and the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo III, at Lisabi Day held at Ake Palace, Abeokuta, Ogun State… weekend
INAUGURATION CEREMONY AND INCEPTION MEETING OF THE UNIDO-LASEPA PROJECT...
L-R: National Programme Officer, UNIDO, Dr. Osuji Otu; Special Adviser on Sustainable Development Goals, Dr. Oreoluwa Finnih; Representative of the Lagos State Governor and Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab; Deputy Head of Mission, Japan Embassy in Nigeria, Mr Kozaki Hitoshi; General Manager, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Dr. Babatunde Ajayi; and Special Adviser on Environment, Engr. Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, during the inauguration ceremony and inception meeting of the UNIDO-LASEPA Project, in collaboration with the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation and the Government of Japan, in Ikeja, Lagos, yesterday
Theresa May-led Commission Moves to End Modern Slavery Globally
Says 1.6m Nigerians trapped, 50m persons still ensnared worldwide
The Global Commission on Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking led by former British Prime Minister, Theresa May, is set to reduce the number of persons trapped in modern slavery globally, with the launch of an international campaign to end the menace.
In a statement by the organisation yesterday, seen by THISDAY, the commission stated that at least
1.6 million Nigerians are currently entrapped by the menace, while globally, over 50 million persons are still being held.
“This is the misery that the Global Commission on Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking wants to bring to an end. It has launched a bold international campaign to save millions from modern slavery and human trafficking.
“An estimated 50 million people–almost the population of Kenya – are
trapped in slavery, according to the landmark report by the Global Commission on Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking launched at the United Nations in New York, at 8 AM Lagos time on April 8.
“The 2023 Global Slavery Index ranks Nigeria 5th out of 51 African nations for modern slavery prevalence, with an estimated 1.6 million people affected,” it said in the statement.
However, the commission acknowledged that Nigeria has also led the
region in its response, implementing the strongest anti-slavery measures in Africa, including a new National Action Plan (NAP).
Describing it as the greatest human rights issue of our time, Chair of the commission, the former British Prime Minister, May, noted that modern slavery constitutes a moral stain on humanity as a whole.
“Modern slavery and human trafficking remain the greatest human rights issue of our time. Yet, in
Genocide: Guterres Canvasses United Global Action to Stem Growing Hate Speech
Rwandan Envoy: Only global cooperation can prevent another ‘1994 genocide in Rwanda’
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
The Secretary General of United Nations (UN), Antonio Guterres, has called for global action to stem the tide of hate speech, stop disunity and discontent mutating into violence, uphold human rights, and ensure accountability in order to stop the repeat of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
Guterres, in his speech on the commemoration of 31 years since the genocide in Rwanda, read by the United Nations (UN) Women Representative in Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ms. Beatrice Eyong, said: “Today we mourn the one million children, women and men slaughtered in the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
“This appalling chapter in human history was not a spontaneous
frenzy of horrendous violence. It was intentional, premeditated and planned - including through hate speech that inflamed division and spread lies and dehumanization.
The overwhelming majority of victims were Tutsi, but also Hutu and others who opposed the genocide.
“As we recall how these crimes came about, we must also reflect on resonance with our own times.
These are days of division. The narrative of “us” versus “them” is ascendant, polarizing societies. Digital technologies are being weaponized to further inflame hate, stoke division, and spread lies.
“We must learn from the terrible history of the genocide in Rwanda, and act to stem the tide of hate speech, stop disunity and discontent mutating into violence, uphold human rights, and ensure
accountability.
“I urge all states to deliver on commitments made in the Global Digital Compact to tackle online falsehoods and hate, to comply with their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law, and to become parties to the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide without delay.
“On this day of remembrance, let’s commit to be vigilant and to work together to build a world of justice and dignity for all - in honour of all the victims, and survivors of the genocide in Rwanda.”
At the marking of the 31 years since the genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, in Abuja, Nigeria, on Monday, Rwanda’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Christophe Bazivamo called for global cooperation in combating
Zamfara Lead Poisoning: FG Warns Illegal Miners, Awaits Experts’ Report
Folalumi
Alaran in Abuja
The federal government has warned illegal miners to immediately vacate all sites in Zamfara, adding that all mining activities are still on hold until the release of standard operating procedures that will guide the resumption of exploration in the state.
Reacting to news reports of recent lead poisoning in Bugundu Local Government Area in Zamfara State, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, said the ban on mining in the state in the last six
years meant there shouldn’t have been any reason for lead poisoning.
The minister said the outbreak was evidence that traditional and local institutions allowed illegal miners to operate in their areas in flagrant violation of the ban.
“Every citizen should obey the laws and regulations established by constituted authorities. Our revered traditional institutions and local authorities, which are funded from the federation accounts, have an even higher responsibility to enforce government directives.
“However, where they dem-
onstrate willful negligence and abdicate their responsibilities, they perpetrate a state of anomie with dire consequences, as we are witnessing in this case.”
To mitigate the situation, experts and ministry officials’ reports will recommend specific interventions enabling us to stave off future calamities, he stated.
Alake commended the government of Zamfara State for deploying emergency services to the area and called for more collaboration between the state and officials of the ministry in the state.
genocide ideology to prevent the recurrence of atrocities similar to the 1994 genocide in Rwanda.
At the event organised in partnership with the Nigerian government and the United Nations in Nigeria, which brought together individuals from various sectors and emphasized the theme “Remember - Unite - Renew,” Bazivamo stressed that Kwibuka is not merely a time for remembrance, but a global call to confront historical truths, challenge genocide denial, and uphold the dignity of the victims.
recent years, it has dropped down the international agenda. While the world faces many challenges, this is a moral stain on humanity that we can – and must – address with far greater urgency and global collective action,” said May.
“Every one of those 50 million victims has talents, interests, hopes, and desires that have been stripped from them. They deserve to live their lives, just like anyone else, and if we are to give them back their freedom, and end this vile trade, we need to act now,” she added.
The report sets out how government, business and civil society can fix the systematic failures which allow the exploitation of millions of lives.
It is an international call to action in pursuit of the United Nations goal of eliminating modern slavery and human trafficking by 2030.
The report encouraged the international community to view modern slavery alongside climate change, geopolitical volatility and armed conflict.
President of the 79th Session of the UN General Assembly, Mr. Philemon Yang, in his remarks, said: “We must take a stronger stand against modern slavery and human trafficking.
“The launch of the Global Commission’s report today will contribute to the dialogue and deliberations around this critical issue. Together, we must forge the diverse partnerships that are critical to our success. By uniting to drive transformative change, we can
confront the challenges that enable exploitation to flourish.”
The Global Commission said it believes a world without modern slavery is a realistic and achievable goal, but only if countries tackle forced labour in global supply chains; urging governments to meet their international commitments; implement effective legislation tackling modern slavery; and engage with civil society organisations to prioritise the issue in crisis contexts.
The report also urged governments in Member States to prioritise effective and enforceable domestic legislation to provide a unified definition of modern slavery and called on businesses to increase accountability over their supply chains to identify, prevent, and address risks of forced labour.
It recalled the case of one Nasreen Sheikh , who survived modern slavery in a sweatshop in Kathmandu where she spent up to 15 hours a day standing at a textile machine, at the age of 10. She later escaped and became an anti-modern slavery activist, social entrepreneur, and author.
“I know first-hand the impact of this devastating crime on people’s lives – stripping them of their humanity and destroying their livelihoods. The scale of suffering caused by contemporary forms of slavery is reminiscent of the genocides of the last century. The world cannot stand by and watch while millions endure such abuses,” Sheikh said.
Alleged Sexual Harassment: Group Slams Nwebonyi, Condemns Uncomplimentary Remarks Against Eminent Nigerians
Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja
The Association of Ebonyi Indigenes, Socio-Cultural in the Diaspora (AEISCID) has cautioned the Senator representing Ebonyi North Senatorial District, Onyekachi Nwebonyi, over his vituperative utterances and attacks on eminent personalities in the sexual harassment allegations involving the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio and the Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. It added that Nwebonyi’s continuous media voyages, uncomplimentary remarks and general tout-like disposition to those calling out the Senate President over the allegations leveled against him by Natasha clearly showed that he does not understand his clearly-spelt-out duty as a legislator in the red chambers.
AEISCID’s President, Amb. Paschal Oluchukwu, in a statement issued Tuesday, described the Nwebonyi’s utterances, conducts and actions as “totally un-parliamentary, unwholesome and unbecoming of a legislator by every known standard.”
He said for whatever it is worth, the voyages of Nwebonyi in defense of the accused, almost crying more than the bereaved leaves so much to be desired.
Oluchukwu stressed the Senator has left the rest of Ebonyians utterly ashamed of his undignifying behaviour, to the extent that the group fell short of labeling him “an attack dog”. He noted: “We have watched, read and listened deeply concerning compunctions, the heedless vibrations of one of our sons, Senator Onyekachi
Nwebonyi, who represents the Ebonyi North Senatorial zone at the 10th National Assembly.
“Like the rest of Nigerians who have watched with reservations, how an ordinarily ‘distinguished Senator’ verbally attacks any and every one including but not limited to Nigeria’s former Minister of Education and foremost women advocate, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, other respected Nigerians and the character of the alleged victim, Senator Natasha AkpotiUduaghan since the allegations of sexual harassment against the nation’s number three citizen came to the fore.
“Ordinarily, we had contemplated letting the matter to gently slide, but we are forced to speak up due to the continuous media umbrages of our brother, Nwebonyi.”
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
12TH AGM OF AFRICA PRUDENTIAL...
L-R: Chief Financial Officer, Africa Prudential Plc, Taofik
Carbon Emission: FG Restates Commitment to Reducing Footprint in Aviation Sector
The federal government on Tuesday said it remained committed to reducing carbon footprint in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
The government said Nigeria was in full alignment with the project by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) on “Leave no Country Behind”, and was fully carried along by developed countries in the transition processes.
But it lamented the cost implications of transitioning into Greener Aviation industry.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festuus Keyamo, made the disclosures when he received members of House Committee on Aviation at the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development headquarters, Abuja.
While pointing out that Nigeria accounted for only 2.5 per cent of global CO emissions as of 2015, Keyamo said, “As a Third World country, we face major limitations in investing in infrastructure and research for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), even though it is part of our mandate.
“Most developed countries have made limited progress in producing SAF due to lack of market demand and most aircraft are
still manufactured to run on fossil fuels. It would be very expensive to modify existing aircraft engines to be compatible with SAF.”
The aviation minister explained that the sector’s agencies were working assiduously on initiatives to mitigate the effect of climate change.
Keyamo said some of the initiatives included production of Seasonal Climate Prediction by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and participation in Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) programme by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
As a result, the carbon footprint for Lagos airport was reduced by six per cent in 2021 due to improved energy management, earning the airport a Level 2 ACA accreditation (Reduction), he stated.
Keyamo added that that Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) was actively addressing climate change through initiatives, like the “Fly2Green Nigeria” programme to promote Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), and collaborate with the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) to facilitate cleaner aviation energy.
Chairman, House Committee on Climate Change, Honourable Chris Nkwonta, emphasised the financial burden of transitioning
to greener aviation. Nkwonta said the committee had discussed that with the United Nations, stressing the need for international support to help developing nations meet climate
change targets.
He also stressed the need for conscious steps to decarbonise the sector as much as possible through the innovative use of less emitting fuels and carbon trade-offs; green
infrastructure at the airports; sustainable waste management practices, among others. Nkwonta called on airlines to invest in buying carbon credits to offset their carbon footprints, saying
DEPOWA Moves to Reverse Nigeria’s Alarming Rate of Out-of-School Children
Linus Aleke in Abuja Defence and Police Officers Wives’ Association (DEPOWA) yesterday took a bold step to try to reverse Nigeria’s alarming rate of out-of-school children by mobilising the military and political leadership, as well as captains of industry, to raise an anticipated N10 billion for the construction of the proposed DEPOWA College in Abuja.
Speaking at a fundraising and ground-breaking ceremony for the building of the DEPOWA College yesterday in Abuja, National President of DEPOWA, Mrs. Oghogho Musa, expressed the association’s resolve to institute positive change by constructing the college to provide a supportive and nurturing environment
Afenifere Warns against Stoking Religious Conflict in South-west
Yoruba’s foremost socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere, has warned all groups and interests against making incendiary statements or introducing unsecular practices that can endanger peaceful coexistence among the residents of Ekiti and other South-West states.
The organisation also called on intelligence agencies, especially the Force Intelligence Department of the Nigeria Police and Department of State Services (DSS) to put the Executive Director of Muslim Rights Concerns (MURIC), Prof. Ishaq Akintola, under check for making comments that can stoke religious conflict in the region.
Afenifere gave this warning on Tuesday in a statement by its Chairman, Ekiti Chapter, Prince Gabriel Alonge following Akintola’s press statement that Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, has declared war on Muslims over Mosque Demolition in Aramoko Ekiti, Ekiti State.
MURIC and Muslim Ummah of South-West Nigeria had influenced and justified the establishment of an independent Shariah Arbitration Panel in the South-West, which triggered stiff opposition from all strata of the region due to its implications for peace and security.
But in its statement on Monday, Afenifere described Akintola’s comment as unfounded, unguarded and capable of endangering peaceful coexistence among brothers of different religious leanings and stoking the embers of religious conflict in Ekiti State and by extension, the South-West states.
It said: “We read the press statement of Prof. Ishaq Akintola with grave concern. We have also dug deeper into the veracity of his claims that Senator Bamidele declared war on Muslims for demolishing a mosque in Aramoko Ekiti, the headquarters of Ekiti West Local Government Area, Ekiti State.
“Our findings revealed that Senator Bamidele facilitated the reconstruction of Alara Modern
Market in Aramoko Ekiti. We also found out that the market, comprising 60 open shops and 40 lock-up shops, was inaugurated on the 28th March 2025 and handed over to Alara-in-Council and Ekiti West Local Government, the two original owners of the property.
“We found out that Chief Imam of Aramoko Ekiti, Alfa Raheem Bamigbola offered the opening prayer at the inauguration of the market. Where did Prof. Akintola get his information?
“For us, at Afenifere, this is a deliberate attempt to destabilise Ekiti State shortly after we got over ripples that their plan to establish the Shariah Arbitration Panel in some South-West states had triggered.
“It is quite disappointing that Prof. Akintola can make such a statement that can cause disaffection, even conflict, among brothers and sisters not only in Aramoko and Ekiti State, but also in the region. South-West is the only part of the federation that has enjoyed some level of peace and stability.
for students.
Quoting UNESCO’s latest statistics of approximately 20 million out-ofschool children, Mrs. Musa lamented that Nigeria had one of the highest numbers of children excluded from education globally, with a low net enrolment rate of 64.10 per cent in primary education and a pupil-teacher ratio of 37.55 per cent.
She observed that classrooms were overcrowded, making it challenging for teachers to provide individualised attention.
According to her, “For us at DEPOWA, we remain mindful of the huge involvement of our personnel in operations across the country, especially at this time. This project is, therefore, a direct intervention in support of the non-kinetic operations of the Defence Headquarters and the Services.
“The proposed DEPOWA College has an estimated cost of N10 billion and will be sited on 8,000 square meters of land in Asokoro, Abuja.”
She stated that the architectural and engineering designs for the college were complete and ready, while Original Equipment Manufacturers had been contacted for the relevant equipment.
Musa said DEPOWA was established as a platform for members to
provide support and companionship for one another, necessitated by the customary long absence of their husbands who performed national duties far from home.
The governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by his media aide, Igho Akeregha, pledged to support the initiative to address the gap in educational opportunities for children.
While applauding Musa, a daughter of the state, for the laudable initiative, Oborevwori said his administration was investing massively in education.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudden Abbas, represented by Chairman, House Committee on Defence, Hon. Babajimi Benson, said there was no better way to contribute to building the future of young Nigerians than investing in education.
Abbas applauded DEPOWA for the initiative, adding it is of value to society.
Stressing that education was a bedrock of development, Abbas stated that the most important gift every parent could bequeath to their children was education.
Special Guest of Honour and Minister of Defence, Badaru Abubakar, said
the initiative embodied the unwavering commitment of military and police families to nation-building. Abubakar said education was the bedrock of societal progress, adding, “This college will serve as a beacon of hope, excellence and opportunity for the children of brave service members.”
The minister stressed that a well-educated generation, nurtured in an environment of discipline and patriotism, was critical to sustaining peace, unity and progress in Nigeria. He called on all stakeholders, government agencies, corporate organisations and public-spirited individuals to contribute generously to the project.
Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, stated that education had always been a crucial pillar for national development and societal progress.
According to him, “As we break ground for the DEPOWA College, we reaffirm our commitment to the holistic development of our children and future leaders.
“This noble initiative by DEPOWA is not just about bricks and blocks but also about constructing a future built on knowledge, discipline, and character.
Customs to Strengthen Border Security with Advanced Technology
Francis Sardauna in Katsina
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has unveiled plans to deploy geospatial technology to strengthen border security, intelligence gathering and enforcement operations across border stations in the country.
The NCS Zonal Coordinator, Zone ‘B’, Assistant ComptrollerGeneral of Customs, Oloyede Adekunle Stephen, revealed this during a working visit to the Katsina Area Command of the service on Tuesday.
He said the advanced technology and other innovative tools would be deployed to enhance the NCS surveillance, intelligence gathering and tackle smuggling activities across the nation’s borders.
He added the technology-driven measures would not only help in curbing illicit goods and activities, but also facilitate legitimate and efficient cross-border trade in a transparent and accountable system.
Stephen emphasized the pivotal role of the advanced technology in modern border management, particularly in tackling smuggling,
trafficking and other cross-border crimes bedeviling the country. According to him, “Geospatial is a technology that will assist us in coordinated border management.
The Geospatial technology and risk management are tools that we are going to deployed to assist officers in doing their job.
“We have mapped all borders and this will give us real time movement of goods and services and even human beings at the border stations. So, it will create timely intervention to avert movement of illicit goods, weapons and the rest.
Kasim Sumaina in Abuja
Giwa; Director, Capital Markets, Bukola James-Cole; Chairman, Board of Directors, Chief (Mrs) Eniola Fadayomi, MFR; Managing Director/CEO, Dr. (Mrs) Catherine Nwosu; and Company Secretary/Legal Adviser, Joseph Jibunoh, at the Africa Prudential 12th Annual General Meeting held in Lagos, yesterday
Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti
Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com
08033025611
Kogi: Natasha’s Triumph Over Political Traducers, Skewed Recall Process
Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan last week gave a bloody nose to her political enemies when the Independent National Electoral Commission declared that the petition for her recall did not meet constitutional requirements thereby halting any further action. Adedayo Akinwale reports.
It was indeed a moment of respite for the Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan when the well orchestrated political battle against her came to a halt last week following the declaration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) that the petition for her recall process did not meet constitutional requirements. The electoral body was also emphatic when it said there shall be no further action against her.
The political travails of Akpoti-Uduaghan began when she accused President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment. Along the line, the Senate had suspended the Kogi lawmaker on March 6, 2025 for six months over alleged misconduct and refusal to comply with the chamber’s sitting arrangement during the plenary session on February 20, 2025.
As if that wasn’t enough, her constituents, some of whom were believed to be sponsored by the former governor of the state, Yahaya Bello on Monday, March 24, stormed the headquarters of INEC in Abuja, where they demanded her immediate recall.
Following the receipt of the petition, the electoral body said the petition for the recall of Akpoti-Uduaghan was not in compliance with the legal framework.
The commission explained that the petition from Kogi Central Senatorial District was accompanied by six bags of documents said to be signatures collected from over half of the 474,554 registered voters spread across 902 Polling Units in 57 Registration Areas (Wards) in the five Local Government Areas of Adavi, Ajaokuta, Ogori/Magongo, Okehi and Okene.
Nevertheless, it said its immediate observation was that the representatives of the petitioners did not provide their contact address, telephone number(s) and e-mail address(es) in the covering letter forwarding the petition through which they can be contacted as provided in Clause 1(f) of Regulations and Guidelines.
It noted that once the petition meets the requirements of submission, as contained in its regulations, it would commence the verification of the signatures in each polling unit in an open process restricted to registered voters that signed the petition only.
The Commission reiterated that the recall of a legislator is the prerogative of registered voters in a constituency who sign a petition indicating loss of confidence in the legislator representing them.
However, in a follow up statement, the commission confirmed that the required details of the petitioners had been provided in a letter addressed to the Chairman of the Commission dated Wednesday, 26th March, 2025.
It was based on this that the electoral body wrote Akpoti-Uduaghan on the petition submitted by her constituents to recall her.
INEC National Commissioner and Chairman, Information & Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun in a statement noted that the same letter has been copied to the presiding officer of the Senate and published on the Commission’s website.
“As provided in Clause 2(a) of the Commission’s Regulations and Guidelines for Recall 2024, a letter has been written to notify the Senator sought to be recalled about the receipt of the petition and delivered to her official address. The same letter has been copied to the presiding officer of the Senate and published on the Commission’s website,” he said.
Expectedly, Akpoti-Uduaghan who was battle ready for the political war accused Akpabio and Bello of initiating her recall process using fake constituents.
The Senator described the recall attempt as a continuation of Bello’s political vendetta against her and therefore, challenged Bello to tell the world where he manufactured the names of those fake constituents calling for her recall.
While INEC continued to cross the ts and
dot the Is on her recall process, AkpotiUduaghan in a show of force stormed her constituency last Tuesday where thousands of supporters from Kogi Central’s five local government areas gathered early in Ihima, Okehi LGA, to welcome her.
She visited her constituency despite police and the state government ban on rallies and processions. Natasha flew in a helicopter after she was informed that the state government in conjunction with the police have mounted a series of roadblocks to prevent her from visiting her constituency.
While addressing her supporters, Akpoti-Uduaghan advised the former governor to rather focus on clearing his name over allegations of fraudulent diversion of N89.2 billion, instead of
attempting to destabilise the mandate given to her by the people of Kogi Central.
She added: “It is now very clear to the whole world how popular I am in my constituency. The powers that be did try to suppress the will of the people but my people emphatically said no. No to injustice, no to exploitation of women, no to fake recall, no to Yahaya Bello and his allies.
“They (my people) came out en masse to resist government intimidations. We thank them for the massive show of love. We also thank our oppressors because their actions have now made them more unpopular while we gained more support. As for me, I will do more for my people. I will not betray them. I will continue to give my best and they should be rest assured of our best representation all the time.”
In an interesting turn of events, INEC last week said after careful consideration, the petition has not met the requirement of Section 69(a)
In an interesting turn of events, INEC last week said after careful consideration, the petition has not met the requirement of Section 69(a) of the Constitution and therefore, no further action shall be taken on the recall of the Senator. The Commission in a statement noted that it arrived at the conclusion after consideration and approval of the report of its physical count of the signatures/ thumbprints forwarded with the petition in line with Clause 2(b) of the Regulations and Guidelines for Recall 2024 at its meeting on Thursday.
of the Constitution and therefore, no further action shall be taken on the recall of the Senator.
The Commission in a statement noted that it arrived at the conclusion after consideration and approval of the report of its physical count of the signatures/thumbprints forwarded with the petition in line with Clause 2(b) of the Regulations and Guidelines for Recall 2024 at its meeting on Thursday.
It emphasised that a petition for the recall of a Senator must comply with the provision of Section 69(a) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) which requires the signatures of more than one-half of the registered voters in the constituency.”
The commission said: “The total number of registered voters in the Kogi Central Senatorial District is 474,554. More than one-half of this figure (i.e. 50%+1) is 237,277+1 which is at least 237,278 voters.
“Across the 902 Polling Units in 57 Registration Areas and five Local Government Areas that make up the Senatorial District, the Commission ascertained 208,132 signatures/thumbprints from the submission made by the petitioners.
“This translates to 43.86 per cent of the registered voters which falls short of the constitutional requirement by 29,146 signatories. Consequently, the petition has not met the requirement of Section 69(a) of the Constitution. Therefore, no further action shall be taken on the recall of the Senator.”
Olumekun stressed that in line with the provision of Clause 2(d) of the Regulations and Guidelines for Recall 2024, the Commission has issued a Public Notice to that effect which is also copied to the presiding officer of the Senate. Reacting to the development via a statement, Akpoti-Uduaghan described the decision to reject the recall process as a justice against injustice, adding that INEC has proven to be truly independent.
The Senator also commended the Commission for rejecting a fake process by sponsored groups and individuals to recall her from the Senate. She said: “The voice of the people is the voice of God. Nobody, be it a former Governor Yahaya Bello or Senate President Godswill Akpabio and their associates can toy with the mandate freely given by the resolute people of Kogi Central without being put to shame.
“All along, I did not exercise any fear because I have a God that can never fail and I have people on my side. I commend the umpire for shaming the shameless agents of darkness and setting the record straight according to the laws of our land.
“To God be the glory, we have defeated them again. This development is another recordbreaking against those who prefer coming from the back yard, the manipulators, election riggers, the violent merchants and their allies in Kogi Central and beyond.
“Please bear it in mind that your days are numbered in politics because the new era has come when people will no longer reckon or identify with evil politicians whose trademark are not more than violent, rigging and corruption.”
Afterall said and done, the rigorous process to recall a lawmaker as stipulated in Section 69 of the 1999 Constitution as amended, would make it rather an impossible task to accomplish. Be that as it may, Natasha has once again proven to be torn in Bello’s flesh and his political nemesis as far as Kogi politics is concerned. For the third time she has given a bloody nose to the “White Lion”.
Firstly, against all obstacles on her way, she contested the Senatorial election in Kogi Central during the 2023 general election. Secondly, Though the election results were skewed against her, she won her mandate back through the court of law. Thirdly, she has also defeated Bello again in the bid to recall her. The fearless Akpoti-Uduaghan has once again proven to be the “White Lioness” of Kogi politics.
Akpoti-Uduaghan
Umahi Advises Lagos to Close Waterways Between Carter and Eko Bridges
Bennett Oghifo
Citing defects at the bottom of the Eko Bridge in Lagos, the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi has recommended the immediate closure of the waterways between Eko and Carter bridges to vessels.
Umahi gave the advice after inspecting the damage done by a dredger to one of the pie caps of the Carter Bridge, warning that it was dangerous for any form of ships or boats or dredgers to ply that waterway until necessary repairs were done.
“We had a very terrible situation at Eko Bridge; one of the pier caps has been damaged. A dredger hit one of the pier caps.
“The pier caps is like the legs to human beings. What the pier cap and the piers are to the bridges are what the legs are. So imagine a vehicle hitting one of your legs.
“And so I immediately directed divers to be deployed and I went to a smaller boat to monitor the level of damages
below the water, occasioned by this dredger that hit the bridge. And I was very shocked. A whole pier cap was totally removed. And what is holding that particular section is only the rods. So some of the rods are removed. So it’s like a whole leg of somebody is cut off. Luckily for us, because I was to announce shutting down, but I’ve looked at it and there’s something we can do, even very delicate, but we can restore it. There’ll be no need of shutting down the system, but it’s an emergency situation because one pier is totally out.
“And so I’m discussing with Julius Berger on what they should do immediately to restore that, said Umahi who spent about five days attending to emergency situations on the Independence, Carter, Eko and Third Mainland bridges. He also held a stakeholders’ forum with regards to the Section II of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.
On the closure of the waterways, he said, “But let
me announce and appeal to the governor of Lagos State to please enforce that the waterways between the Carter Bridge and the Eko Bridge should be closed. Because the dredger hit the pier caps and the piers tumbled and they sunk. And part of it is exposed. And so if a boat or ship is now going through that way, it may be very dangerous. And if we have a high tide, you may not see it.
“So what is safe is for that section of the waterway to be closed down. And so I’m alerting all the authorities, the Navy, the Lagos State Government, they have always been very proactive. This section has to be closed down immediately.
“I learned that the owner of the ship or whoever is the captain, of the dredger has been arrested. And so we are going to take decisive action because the damage is very major. And I also saw along the line a very serious dredging along the Third Mainland Bridge. Notwithstand-
ing that the Federal Executive Council about four months back banned any form of dredging 10 kilometers radius from all bridges in Nigeria.
So I was very shocked to see that dredging is still taking place. The dredging of sand along seas and rivers is very dangerous
because all the piers in Lagos State were executed through skin friction, which means that it is the sand that is holding the piers and holding the bridge. And so if we now go ahead to continue to excavate this sand, then it is dangerous.”
He said, “At the Third mainland Bridge, we have installed cameras to observe what is happening on top and also under the water and under the bridge. And so we’re going to be looking at that for all the bridges in Lagos, even though it’s quite a lot of cost. So this is what we noticed and it’s very dangerous.
Africa Climate Talks: AfDB, Partners Join Forces to Shape Climate Agenda Ahead of COP30
Bennett Oghifo
The African Union Commission, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, and the African Development Bank will host the Sixth Africa Climate Talks in Kampala, Uganda, in partnership with the Uganda Parliamentary Forum, the PanAfrica Climate Justice Alliance, the Global Centre on Adaptation,
UNICEF.
The event will bring together government representatives, technical experts, intergovernmental organizations, private sector leaders, and non-state actors, including NGOs, youth, women’s groups, and Indigenous communities to build consensus and coordinate strategy for the 30th United Nations Climate Conference (COP30), to take
place in Belem Brazil in November 2025. The meeting’s theme “Rethinking financing and ambition for climate action, green growth and development in Africa: a justice issue” aims to reinforce Africa’s collective efforts to shape the global climate agenda.
The conference will be supported by Uganda Parliamentary Forum, Pan-Africa Climate
Joseph Orji: Trustcrow
Owners against Fraud
Justice Alliance, Global Centre on Adaptation, and UNICEF. Representatives of a range of organizations and CSOs are expected to participate.
The discussions will also assess outcomes from COP29, particularly in relation to climate finance, adaptation, just transition, and compensation for losses and damage. The meeting will also explore the continent’s
progress in addressing climateinduced challenges for health, gender equality, economic growth, and sustainable resource management.
James Kinyangi, Coordinator for the Climate and Development Special Fund of the African Development Bank Group will lead its delegation. The Bank Group’s involvement in the Africa Climate Talks reflects
its commitment to driving climate-resilient development and mobilizing resources for Africa’s transition to a lowcarbon economy. The Bank delegation will also contribute to technical discussions on the role MDBs can play in bridging Africa’s climate finance gaps, strengthening adaptation measures, and ensuring a just and inclusive transition.
Provides Intelligence for Property Buyers,
Founder and Managing Director, Trustcrow, Joseph Orji, tells Charles Ajunwa that the title search report product, and the property inspection report product launched recently at the company’s office in Ikoyi, Lagos, are gamechangers in the property industry in Nigeria, among other issues
Your company, Trustcrow unveiled two game-changing innovations in Nigeria’s property market. Can you throw more light on this?
On Tuesday, we launched two products. The first is our title search report product, and the second is our property inspection report product. So those are two digital products within Trustcrow’s verification arsenal, essentially, for property buyers, and people who are looking to buy property. People who are looking to rent property can also use the product and these are for people in Nigeria and in the diaspora because it’s an online product, and you can pay for it anywhere in the world. We’ve built different products and it was sometime last year that we really focused on this title search report product. We put together the marketing team to achieve that. We focused on the title search report product in the fourth quarter of last year, and then in the first quarter of this year, we built up our marketing team to now take this to the market. Incidentally, as the second quarter is starting, we’re now launching and going to the market with these products.
What inspired you to launch these products? Are you looking at launching more property products?
Pain inspired us to launch these products because we have dealt in property and have been messed up, as we say here, messed up doing property transactions. And that inspired us. Those tragic incidences led us to speak to others and find out, was it only us? There are
other people who have also been victims. And we found that there wasn’t one alone in this thing. Other people had been messed up, lost money, lost time, had to go to court and gone through a lot of pain, as I mentioned. So we said, based on these problems, we feel there is a need and then what product can now fulfill that need?
That’s how we developed both the title search report product to focus on title verification, and then the property inspection report to focus on validating building quality.
Can you talk about your market audience?
Our market audience: we have our primary target audience and our secondary audience. Our primary target audience are first-time homebuyers and diaspora buyers. Why? Because those
two audiences are very vulnerable to property transactions. First-time homebuyers, because they haven’t done it before. They simply don’t understand the process. Diaspora buyers, they’re not on ground. They’re further away, and they don’t understand all of the intricacies about buying property or renting property here in Nigeria. Those are our primary target audience. Our secondary audience are property investors. Why? Because they’re consistently buying and selling property. Okay, they have a need for this thing. Now, they were previously doing it in a different fashion, in a different manner, in a manual manner, and maybe they might have a team that was doing it before. But they said to themselves, I want to basically be able to do this in a more efficient manner, and perhaps also in a cheaper manner. That’s why we target first-time homebuyers and diaspora buyers primarily, and then property investors secondary.
What makes these two products unique?
The truth of the matter is that people have been doing title search reports and property inspection reports for decades. I’m sure you know some people who hire a lawyer or maybe they go down to Alausa in Ikeja themselves and do it. I know for a fact you can hire an engineer, you can go to a building and do a report. But that is the old way of doing things. What makes this unique is that it’s a more modern way of transacting and getting what you want. Why? Because it’s online. You don’t have to talk to anybody. You can do it whether from Maryland
in Ikeja, or Maryland, U.S. You can do it at 11 o’clock at night from your own home. So it’s all online and it’s streamlined and it’s efficient. Everything is there. You don’t have to negotiate with anybody. All the services are there. You pay with your card or pay via transfer. Somebody sees the order, picks up the order, fulfills the order, uploads the respective report on your dashboard within 24 business hours if there is no issues in Lagos State, for the title search report. So, it’s more accessible, and we’re also trying to make it more affordable as well. The base package for the title search report is N100,000. So it gives you the protection, gives you the access, and it gives you the affordability.
What about security of these products from hacking and cyber attacks?
We don’t have a payment gateway. We leverage on the existing payment gateways that are proficient in this.
So domestically, we leverage on Paystack and MoneyFi. MoneyFi is MoneyPoint’s payment gateway. Internationally, we leverage on Stripe for our domestic customers. These are large billion-dollar companies that have, frankly, some of the best payment gateways on the planet. Stripe is a $60 billion company, and it actually owns Paystack. When you’re paying online for our products, you’re paying through those gateways. And these guys handle millions of transactions daily. So we’re not using ragtag or unverified kind of products. These are corporate products that we use.
Umahi inspecting the bottom of the Eko Bridge in Lagos… recently
Orji
IN MEMORIAM: ANDREW STEPHEN EYRE (ANDY EYRE) )
It is with deep sadness that the Board, Management, and Staff of Century Group Nigeria announce the passing of our esteemed Director of Operations and Technical Services, Andrew Stephen Eyre, fondly known as Andy Eyre, who peacefully departed this life on Monday, March 31, 2025.
Andy was a visionary leader whose dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment were instrumental to the growth and transformation of Century Group over the past 14 years. His remarkable contributions to the Nigerian energy sector and to our organization were characterized by innovation, excellence, and integrity. He championed initiatives that strengthened our operations, empowered teams, and elevated industry standards, leaving an indelible mark on all who worked with him.
A respected professional and cherished mentor, Andy Eyre’s legacy is one of exceptional leadership and service. His influence extended beyond professional achievements—he inspired those around him with his generosity of spirit, clarity of vision, and genuine care for people.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his beloved family during this difficult time. We join them in mourning the loss of not only a distinguished colleague but a remarkable human being.
To honour Andy’s life and legacy, a Memorial Service will be held as follows:
Friday, April 11, 2025 11:00 AM
J’s Signature Hotel, 14-16 Location Road, off Tombia Street Extension, New GRA Phase 3, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
We invite friends, colleagues, and associates to join us in paying tribute to a life so meaningfully lived. The Board and Management remain committed to preserving Andy Eyre’s vision and values, and will ensure continuity in leadership and operations in line with our governance protocols. Further updates will be communicated in due course.
Signed: Management g
overnance protocols e course
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ACCOUNTABILITY IN THE HEALTH SECTOR
HENRY EWUNONU argues that the fraud in the health sector, particularly at the local councils, is unconscionable
TIKTOK GETS ANOTHER LIFELINE
The popular video app has a breather to either sell its US operation or face a ban, writes SONNY ARAGBA-AKPORE
THE KILLINGS IN PLATEAU STATE
SEUN AWOGBENLE urges Nigeria to initiate a trade deal with the US
TRUMP TARIFFS AND NIGERIA IN A NEW WORLD ORDER
If anyone had said 10 years ago that we would one day see a retreat in globalisation and the dismantling of the world order as we have come to have it since the end of the Second World War, nobody would have taken the person seriously.
The second coming of President Trump has been both a tragedy and comedy at the same time, dominated by animated reality TV content that sometimes leaves people utterly shocked. Despite much of what we have seen within the short period, nothing could have prepared anyone for the spectacle that played out at the Rose Garden on April 2, where Trump slammed most countries of the world with tariffs, including the poor old penguins on Heard and Macdonald Island.
Today, we are experiencing a shift in world order and the end of multilateralism, or at least momentarily. In his reflection, the United Kingdom Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, declared that the world as we knew it has gone. In slamming the rest of the world with baseline and reciprocal tariffs of disproportionate dimension, Trump said, “For decades, our country has been looted, pillaged, raped and plundered by nations near and far, both friend and foe alike,”. He believes that his tariffs are an attempt to make the world pay for their many “sins against America,” and even went on to declare April 2 as America’s liberation day.
In all the responses I have seen to the tariff madness, there is none that is as apt as the one by 83-year-old Professor Richard D. Wolff, who said the things you hear President Trump say are, quite frankly, things you would not expect to hear from an undergraduate of maybe three weeks and that this was more about Trump’s selfpromotion than it is about the American people.
The main challenge, as I see it, is not just Trump’s faulty economic assumptions; it is more about how he arrived at the tariffs for different countries. In arriving at the tariffs for each country, Trump and his advisers considered America’s deficit relative to each country and then halved it to arrive at who gets what. In addition to oversimplifying such an important issue, he also refused to acknowledge the fact that we are in a more interconnected and integrated world, where his tariffs, which he claims were originally designed to protect US domestic industries and consumers alike, would now inadvertently hurt them in the form of high production costs, higher consumer prices, inflation and a global recession.
The idea that you can use tariffs to whip everyone into line is flawed because there are things America would never be able to produce efficiently. That is the idea guiding free trade because if America could produce everything efficiently, US companies like Apple, Boeing and Nike would not need
to assemble or source production parts elsewhere. Some of the countries involved in their value chain, such as Vietnam, China and India, are the ones worst hit by the Trump tariffs.
In a tariff system, no one benefits; that much has been established with the SmootHawley Tariff of 1930, which led to a major trade war between America and its allies and a global depression. As with Smoot-Hawley, the outcome of Trump tariffs is not likely to be any different, and worse still, the Trump tariffs are like never seen before. Already, the markets are bleeding; we are witnessing major selloffs, global stocks have plunged, threatening the fear of a possible recession.
Crude oil prices have also fallen below $60 for the first time since 2021. There are fears that that retaliatory tariffs from other countries could spark the beginning of a major trade war.
Since the Second World War, there is no country that has enjoyed far greater economic prosperity than the United States, and this has been on the back of free trade.
While Trump’s argument for the protection of local industries is valid, tariffs are meant to be short-term strategies, applied in specific instances, to serve as anti-dumping measures. There are also non-tariff barriers, like quotas and embargoes, that can be negotiated on a case-by-case basis. But a blanket tariff is certainly the beginning of an economic apocalypse, the end of which no one can foretell.
Nigeria is one of the countries that was affected by the new tariff regime. Trump slammed Nigeria with a 14 per cent tariff.
The United States is one of Nigeria’s biggest
trading partners, averaging $5–6 billion annually, with oil exports constituting 90 per cent of the exports.
Although it appears the US may have exempted energy imports from the list of sweeping tariffs, there are fears that the value of Nigeria's net exports to the US may drop and impact Nigeria’s overall trade balance and foreign exchange earnings, which are necessary for stabilising the economy. The price of oil has also fallen below the budget benchmark, and this increases fear of how Nigeria would fund its budget. It may also expand an already wide budget deficit and necessitate more borrowing.
In the current situation, Nigeria is confronted with at least three choices; it can either capitulate, negotiate, or retaliate. Looking at it more critically, Nigeria is not in a strong position to take on the US with retaliatory tariffs. In that sense, what Nigeria can do is to attempt to get a trade deal with the US, similar to what the EU has proposed: zero-for-zero tariffs. In the medium term, Nigeria must locate new trade partners and enter into new trade agreements and renegotiations with other countries or trading blocs.
The world as we used to know it is no more. Every country, including Nigeria, must now brace up and plan for a new world under Trump. Surely, there are still opportunities in this cloud of despair.
Awogbenle, a Development and Public Policy Professional, writes from United Kingdom. He can be reached via seunawogbenle@ gmail.com.
Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA
Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com
THE KILLINGS IN PLATEAU STATE
The culprits should be brought to justice
Failure to apprehend and prosecute the perpetrators of the heinous crimes in Plateau State and elsewhere seem to encourage the propensity for violence as means of redressing perceived grievances
T H I S D AY
EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU
DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE
MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO
DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU
CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA
GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU
DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE
Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-300 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (750- 1000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive. com along with photograph, email address and phone numbers of the writer.
FAREWELL, PASCAL DOZIE
It’s supposed to be a happy day for me, but it had a tinge of sadness because I lost a dear friend. Some years ago, I walked into a restaurant in Transcorp Hotel, Abuja and met Dr. Pascal Dozie, who showed so much admiration for the work I do.Our friendship was further cemented when he discovered I was born on the 8th of April while he was born on the 9th of the same month. We had regular meetings and he would always call me on my birthday to wish me well. I also always looked forward to calling him the next day. We spoke about everything - life, business, and mentorship. He showed me the possibilities of a greater Nigeria, shared his failures and successes with me so I could learn from them. He believed in me and encouraged me to never stop loving Nigeria. We had plans to visit his village, but sadly, that will never become reality. One story stands out in his love for humanity - he would
organize a yearly football tournament, and he told me how happy it made him feel to see society unite over football. I saw a man who had his dignity intact despite setbacks, who loved the possibilities the world brought, and even at 85, kept on working and looking forward to a brighter world.
I saw him last a few months ago, and I never knew that would be the last time. His last words to me were, ‘Keep doing what you do best.' My
Although I can’t call them again, it’s a reminder of what we shared. Sometimes I still go through their messages. All memories are forever cherished. Thank you for the friendship, Dr. Dozie, and happy birthday today. It feels strange I can’t call you.
Rufai Oseni rufaioseni@gmail.com
NO MESSING AROUND WITH SCIENCE
Scientists have recreated the American Dire Wolf using DNA from environment and is, or will be a dangerous wild animal. Scientists are always trying to make the world a better place but on the other side, there are numerous movies and conspiracy sites that show the problems that scientists could cause. Fortunately the mov-
With the world's problems, climate, food production, pollution, and more, it might be best to skip returning animals that nature, sometimes with the help of humans, allowed to disappear. When we are all safe, healthy, well fed, educated and sheltered, then scientists can bring back the Dodo and the T-rex but maybe not the Megalodon.
As a retired science teacher I want my ex-students to see the great achievements that I told them science could produce rather than a few lost animals.
Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia
POLITY
Benedict Peters: How Envy- fuelled Fiction Tried and Failed
By Lanre Alfred
The tides of history have a way of singling out men whose visions are too grand to be confined within borders. Indeed, like an indefatigable mariner, Benedict Peters rides the storms, bolstered by a tenacious spirit and mulish resolve to excel and arrive with his dreams intact, on pliant coasts. Today, that unyielding spirit of his has paid off. It has seen him through the teething and oft tumultuous stages of the cut-throat world of global commerce till he emerged unhurt and stronger in spirit and resolve like a champ.
Yet, from the pit of envy, some have chosen to forge a false crown of controversy for a man whose very life’s work is founded on service, not scandal.
Benedict Peters does not trade in noise. He builds—quietly, consistently, powerfully. He builds bridges between nations, breathes life into economies, and etches his legacy not in the temporary ink of media spin but in the iron permanence of infrastructure, investment, and human impact. Still, mischief masquerading as media seeks to reduce this African lion to a footnote of sensationalism.
Let it be said without stammer: the tales being peddled around are not revelations; they are distortions. They are not journalism; they are echoes from a chamber of resentment. This is not scrutiny; it is sabotage. And this, this very moment, demands the loud clarity of truth and the lyrical audacity of justice.
For Peters is no stranger to trials. Like the oil his empire refines, he has endured pressure, fire, and filtration. And what has emerged is a man as rare as platinum, as steady as an African sunrise—an unflinching symbol of what African capital can become when wielded with vision, integrity, and grace. Let those who misunderstand greatness learn quickly: Benedict Peters is not the problem. He is the promise.
Beyond the Frantic Melodrama
Recent reports circulating within the Ghanaian media ecosystem have attempted, with unfortunate vigour, to paint Benedict Peters in hues of controversy. Chief among these accusations is a tale of his supposed arrest over an alleged deployment of an “armed militia” that obstructed
access to a luxury estate near the Jubilee House in Accra. This sensational claim is not only false but wholly unfounded. Veteran journalist and Ovation Publisher, Chief Dele Momodu, swiftly and courageously addressed the issue, describing it as an “overblown story”—a caricature of reality. Having spoken directly with Peters, Momodu affirmed that no arrest took place. Instead, what transpired was a moment of misunderstanding, promptly and professionally
handled by Ghanaian authorities. Let us be clear: Benedict Peters is not a man of violence. The notion that he would deploy an armed militia is as ridiculous as it is repugnant. Like many distinguished global figures, Peters employs private security for personal safety—none of whom carry arms. In a world where even musicians and movie stars are flanked by bodyguards, it is absurd to vilify a high-profile businessman for doing the same.
What, then, fuels these attacks? The answer lies not in truth but in envy.
Interestingly, however, Peters’ businesses provide jobs, pay taxes, and bolster the nation’s energy and economic sectors. His investments are not shackled to politics; they are tied to people—Ghanaian workers, families, communities. To question his presence is to undermine Ghana’s own progress.
Luxury, Security and the Narrative of Witch-Hunt
Another thread in the fabric of falsehoods concerns Peters’ lifestyle—particularly claims that he owns over 20 luxury cars. Yet, for a man who has built multi-billion-dollar enterprises across continents, what is a convoy but a small symbol of his success?
We must resist the impulse to criminalise affluence, especially when it is achieved through diligence, intellect, and the honest grind of enterprise. Peters’ wealth is not stolen; it is sown—across oilfields, business ventures, and economic partnerships. To own luxury cars is not a crime; to lie about a man’s character to suit petty narratives is.
A Visionary Builder, Not a Villain
Benedict Peters is not an invader, but an investor. He is not a threat, but a thriving thread in the fabric of African economic renaissance.
As founder of Aiteo Group, Peters has transformed the energy sector in Nigeria nay Africa. His influence is not confined to balance sheets, but flows into the veins of economies—reviving infrastructures, enabling industrial growth, and empowering the continent’s workforce. His contributions to Ghana’s economic vitality are tangible, traceable, and tremendous.
To cast aspersions on Benedict Peters is to cast shadows on a continent in dire need of light-bearers. His story is not one of scandal, but of success. From humble beginnings, he has risen to become a symbol of African ingenuity and resilience—a beacon of what is possible when bold dreams meet honest work.
In a time when Africa must rise above dependency and mediocrity, men like Peters offer more than business acumen—they offer blueprints for transformation. He is not merely an African businessman; he is a continental luminary, a citizen of humanity, and a custodian of tomorrow’s promise.
Altercation over Planned New Access Road Causes Chaos on Banana Island
An alleged plan by the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development to construct a road through the exclusive highbrow Banana Island, located in lagos, to a new estate around the same area,
yesterday resulted in chaotic scenes. No official of the ministry was willing to comment on the issue, but THISDAY gathered that the resistance by the residents of the island to security officials deployed by the ministry, led to a serious traffic jam around the area, delaying several homeowners who were on their way to their offices.
It was learnt that the occupants of the island insisted that the socalled access road was not part of the estate’s initial blueprint and if allowed to be constructed would not only deface the island, but could severely compromise security.
Aside from the boat club which
was designated for recreation, set to be affected by the project, sources within the estate stated that the club house has been marked to be demolished, while the children’s playground as well as the gate will also be affected.
Due to the disagreement yesterday, the gates of Banana Island situated in the Ikoyi Area of Lagos state was
shut for entry and exit, causing serious gridlock around the Lekki-Ajah axis and some other parts of Ikoyi.
A viral video seen by THISDAY, showed vehicles in long queues, with security personnel manning the gate to the estate, trying to restore order.
The ministry officials were said to have ‘invaded’ the upscale estate
Zulum Decries Rising Boko Haram Attacks in Borno, Urges FG, Security to Take Action
Worries situation may reverse past gains Says state deserves better for sharing border with Chad, Cameroon, Niger
Olugbode
Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has raised thealarm over the escalating attacks by Boko Haram/ ISWAP, urging the federal government and security agencies to take decisive action before the situation spirals out of control.
There has been a surge in past months in Borno communities as insurgents have led relentless assaults targeted at villages and military outposts, particularly in Sabon Gari, Wajiroko and Wulgo, among others.
During an expanded security
meeting at Borno State Government House, Maiduguri, Zulum urged the federal government to prioritise the security of the North East, particularly Borno State, which shares borders with three neighbouring countries –Chad, Cameroon, and the Republic of Niger – as well as security concerns in the Sahel region.
“While we appreciate the tremendous support from the federal government and the military, we also want to state that with the current focus in the fight against insecurity shifted from the northeast, all the gains we have recorded so far will be reversed.
“In recent times, Borno State has been witnessing sporadic attacks from Boko Haram insurgents; many military formations were dislodged, such as in Wulgo, Wajiroko and Sabon Gari, among others. It seems we are losing ground.
“Therefore, we want to appeal to the federal government to ensure that the northeastern part of the country receives the desired attention. It seems the focus of the Nigerian Army and the Ministry of Defence is not on the northeast,” he said.
Zulum noted that the northeast, particularly Borno State which is neighbouring three countries in the
troubled sahel region deserved more attention from federal government in its resolve to fight terrorism in Nigeria.
His words: “The recent escalation of Boko Haram attacks across the state is a matter of utmost concern. There is an urgent need for aggressive military action and actionable intelligence to counter the insurgency.
“The recent attacks on Sabongari, Damboa, Wulgo, Baga and Monguno point to the need to up our ante in confronting BH insurgency decisively and swiftly.
“I call on our armed forces to not only mount checkpoints and guard our towns and villages, I also call on
our armed forces to take the battle to the enemy. We should not grant breathing space to the terrorists to regroup, rearm and carry out attacks on our territory.
“By engaging in relentless patrols, picketing and decapitation missions, our troops should defeat and end the insurgency in time so that our recovery plan will progress without let or hindrance.”
The governor, however, restated his commitment to continually support the military and other security agencies working in Borno State to achieve their objectives of fighting insurgency in the state.
intent to enforce the construction of the access road, but were resisted by the residents, who cited security concerns and significant impact on some of the estate’s facilities, including the entrance gate and recreation facilities.
Workers within the islands as well as visitors who had businesses to transact in the residential area were seen trekking right from Gerard Road into the estate, as security officials attempted to control the surging crowd.
The planned estate, known as Apple Island, which is the bone of contention, is said to be developed by the Nigerian Army Properties Limited (NAPL) and is located 400 metres off the shoreline of Banana Island.
It is said to sit on 45 hectares, with a total of 131 plots and when completed will comprise a shopping mall, guest house, police station, mosque, and clubhouse.
Although, in February, the Lagos State Government announced plans to mark illegal buildings on the Island for demolition, citing violations of building regulations, safety risks, and unauthorised encroachments, it however, denied any involvement in yesterday’s event.
Benedict Peters
Michael
in Maiduguri
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Bennett Oghifo in Lagos
Allocation Delay: Averting Risk of Cover Rule Violation
With on-going delay in release of government’s budgetary allocation to its insurers, experts said insurance firms underwriting government businesses may violate No premium No cover. Ebere Nwoji writes
Recent media reports have indicated that most federal government ministries, agencies and departments (MDAs) are yet to renew their insurances for this year due to delay in release of allocations for insurance in the 2025 budget. This raises the question on the place of government in complying with critical insurance laws like the “No Premium No cover. The implementation of this law was kicked off by the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) since January 1, 2013.
Similar reports also indicated that the same problem is starring the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) in the face regarding its insurances, as insurance underwriters and brokers appointed for the NNPC accounts are still waiting for their letter of appointment for the business; whereas their cover for 2024 elapsed since April 1, 2025.
According to media reports, at present, some of MDAs are out of cover, as their insurances have elapsed, while some are pleading to insurers to hold covers for a month, while waiting for the release of allocations from the government.
ANALYSTS’ VIEW
Analysts said government’s agents on insurance of its assets attributed the delays in renewal of the insurance cover to the recent two-day public holidays, but there are signs that in the next one month, these allocations may not be released. Insurance firms, however, fear that the brokers in charge of the business presently may plead that “No Premium, no cover” law for one month should be kept in abeyance, pending the time government would release the allocation funds.
This is because some insurance underwriters said, already some brokers have threatened to starve them of business should they insist on “No premium No Cover” law.
The federal government had allocated N17.3 billion for group life insurance of its workers for this year. Government also allocated N12.4 billion for insurances of what it described as its sensitive assets. These funds are to be released to various insurance firms and brokers approved to handle government insurance for the year.
Going by the “No premium No cover” law, until funds from these allocations are paid to insurance firms appointed for the businesses this year, both the government workers covered under the group life insurance policy and government assets for which the money is meant to cover have no entitlement from any insurance company in form of claims should anything happen from April 1. 2925.
INSURANCE ACT
This is in accordance with section 50 (1) of the Insurance Act 2003, which stipulates, “The receipt of an insurance premium shall be a condition precedent to a valid contract of insurance and there shall be no cover in respect of any insurance risk unless the premium is paid in advance.”
Invariably, the law presupposes that no insurance cover shall be granted by any insurance company without having received the premium.
This delay by government to release budgetary allocation for insurance premium confirms the fear expressed by a shareholders’ right activist, Mr Boniface Okezie last week when confronted with the question on what is expected of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the much-desired presidential assent to the insurance reform bill that has been signed by the law makers.
In his response he said, “As good as the passage of the bill is, the problem with the Nigeria Insurance Industry is not just about passing the bill but implementing it to the later. Now that the bill has been passed and everybody is praying for the President to assent to it when signed into law who will implement it, NAICOM? I doubt it.”
He said the passage of the bill was very good adding that NAICOM has the right to be jubilant over it. He however, stressed that the government may be the first to break the law through failure to patronise the sector by insuring its assets as required by the law.
“But the problem facing insurance sector cannot just be solved by the president assenting to the bill and enthroning the regime of new law in the industry. Government must lead others in patronising the insurance sector by insuring all its assets with indigenous insurance underwriting firms not with foreign firms and paying the premium as and when due. We like foreign things but let them show example by making the laws work through insurance of their own assets,” Okezie stated.
According to him, “NAICOM itself should regulate to keep the souls of the companies alive,” he said.
NAICOM had on January 1, 2013 announced its implementation of “No premium No Cover” policy as one of its market conduct reforms targeted at transforming the insurance industry to a N1trillion premium market from N260 billion annual premium income the insurance sector recorded then.
OPERATORS’ REACTION
Operators and stakeholders in the industry hailed the commission for the policy implementation, saying it was the best thing that could happen to the industry. This is because, prior to the announcement, insurance sector was enmeshed in huge outstanding premium that littered their annual reports and which they kept carrying over and over every year without single record of recovery.
THISDAY findings reveal that majority of these debts were owed by government through either non release of funds allocated to insurance or where the funds were released, government insurance agents and brokers withhold the money waiting for the year to elapse and if there was no risk occurrence, they share the money without a dime going to the insurance underwriting company.
But the problem facing insurance sector cannot just be solved by the president assenting to the bill and enthroning the regime of new law in the industry. Government must lead others in patronising the insurance sector by insuring all its assets with indigenous insurance underwriting firms not with foreign firms and paying the premium as and when due. We like foreign things but let them show example by making the laws work through insurance of their own assets.
Insiders revealed that the quantum of outstanding premium in the annual reports of insurance firms at that time was so huge that NAICOM at a point insisted that every insurance firm must make provision for every figure reflected in its annual report. On their part, insurers were very happy saying that the policy would put more physical cash in their vault and strengthen them to pay claims timely.
Insurers vowed among themselves to ensure that the policy worked so that the era of operating business on paper figures would give way to business operation based on physical cash. But an insurance broker who did not want his name in print, told the media at that time that the only thing that would slow down the success of the “No premium No cover” policy was unhealthy competition among insurers, especially in insurance of government businesses.
This, according to the broker, was because while one insurance underwriter or broker will insist on complying with the law by not granting cover until premium is paid; another insurance broker and its underwriting firm would be so overzealous over participating in government business that they would position themselves to provide the cover without premium being paid if only to grab the business.
Looking at what is playing out in both NNPC business and MDAs where the brokers were pleading for one month cover obviously without premium, this is where the problem of the operators lies. From this point, it will extent to two months, three months or even six months. This has raised the question on what role is government actually playing in Nigerian insurance sector in term of patronage, regulatory implementation among other areas? What is the position of NAICOM on this as the industry’s regulator and federal government adviser on insurance matters?
Indeed, a critical look at the industry regarding sales of policy and premium payment reveals that “No premium No cover” policy has not been as successful as one had thought. Checks by THISDAY revealed that whereas NAICOM and other stakeholders in the industry celebrated the success of the policy, in practical terms, the policy is a ruse.
INSURANCE MANAGERS’ REACTION
The Brand and Business Development Manager of one of the new generation insurance firms in Lagos confided in THISDAY that the “No premium No cover” policy was not working because of dubious activities of insurance brokers and their government insurance agent’s cohorts.
The manager who anonymity because brokers would feel exposed and stop giving his company business lamented that the policy would have been a very beautiful one capable of redefining the face of insurance sector but for the brokers’ attitude.
He said whereas “No premium No cover” policy stipulates that every business placed by brokers must be paid within the maximum period of 30 days, many brokers place business with insurance firms, collect money from the clients and hold back the money for as long
as one year and when he sees that there was no risk occurrence, he would pocket the money.
He said the brokers would place the business, issue credit note to the insurer but would not pay the premium.
Asked why the underwriters condone such brokers and will not report them to the regulator, he said because if you do, they would blacklist your company and would not want to give your company business in future.
He said this explained why in most insurance companies’ books you see so many premium debts written off because it is obvious it will not be paid.
He lamented that if not the brokers’ attitude, “No premium No cover” would have drawn insurance firms out of doldrums.
He however said with direct business, aviation class of business, and some class of oil and gas business, the policy was working perfectly. He also said insurance agents remit their premiums without delays.
NAICOM’S EXPECTATION
THISDAY recalls that during the flag off campaign on implementation of the “No premium No cover” the then insurance commissioner, Mr Fola Daniel, said the implementation of the law was expected to significantly improve the cash flow of insurance institutions in the country adding that it was expected that the positive turn of events in the implementation of “No premium No cover” law would impact on the capacity of operators to settle claims promptly, thus removing a major sore point in the relationship of insurance consumers and service providers.
Insurance underwriters lament that while they keep writing off huge outstanding premium owed by insurance brokers, such brokers were busy buying houses in GRAs with insurance premium paid to them by the clients.
According to the business development manager, the brokers’ activities is aided by lack of cooperation among underwriters.
He said when an insurance underwriter tries to shun a brokers’ business because of bad experience in the previous business he placed, within the same period another underwriter, a bigger and more robust player would invite the broker and sign the contract without stress.
Querying whether this is how the insurance industry would build the much talked about trillion Naira market, the insurers called on NAICOM to review “No premium No cover” policy and monitor adherence by brokers.
At the initial implementation of the “No premium No cover” policy, its beauty inspired neighbouring countries like Ghana to adopt similar policy in their country.
With what is currently playing out in this year’s government insurance business, industry watchers said it is high time insurance underwriters in their trade union meetings should put heads together and decide to get the brokers do the right thing by insisting on “No premium No cover “policy implementation.
The industry observers said it was time insurers should in their periodic meetings with the regulator draw the Commissioner’s attention to what the insurance brokers are doing with “No premium No cover” policy to get the commissioner call them to order.
A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return. An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the
floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange. A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.
GUIDE TO DATA:
Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 04 April-2025, unless otherwise stated.
DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS
Investors Gain N100bn as Global Stock Markets Rebound amid Trump’s Tariffs Rattles
Kayode Tokede
Investors on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) yesterday gained N100 billion as the major stock markets rebounded amid President Donald Trump tariffs rattles in global markets.
Reuters in a report stated that the World markets won a reprieve after three days of heavy selling that wiped trillions of dollars off the value of shares, but caution prevailed with focus on whether Washington might
be willing to negotiate on some of its aggressive tariffs.
According to the report, the Asia stocks bounced off 1-1/2year lows, European shares rallied over 1.5per cent and U.S. stock futures pointed to a positive open for Wall Street where shares had fallen to their lowest in over a year the previous day before steadying.
However, the NGX All Share Index (ASI) gained by 159.86 basis points or 0.15 per cent to close at 104,376.73 basis points.
Consequently, the Month-to-Date and Year-to-Date returns settled at -1.2per cent and +1.4per cent, respectively. Also, market capitalisation gained N100 billion to close at N65.589 trillion.
Analysing by sectors, the NGX Insurance Index depreciated by 4.1per cent, NGX Consumer Goods was down by 0.2per cent, and NGX Industrial Goods dipped by 0.1 per cent, while the NGX Banking index gained 1.9 per cent. The NGX Oil & Gas index, however, remained un-
changed. Despite the rebound, market breadth was negative, as 16 stocks advanced against 42 decliners. Secure Electronic Technology recorded the highest price gain of 8.89 per cent to close at 49 kobo, per share. Abbey Mortgage Bank followed with a gain of 8.35 per cent to close at N5.58, while Sterling Financial Holdings Company up by 6.85 per cent to close at N5.15, per share. VFD Group rose by 5.26 per cent to close at N66.00, while Mutual Benefits Assurance up
by 4.55 per cent to close at 92 kobo, per share. On the other hand, Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO) led the losers’ chart by 9.94 per cent to close at N62.95, per share. NEM Insurance followed with a decline of 9.92 per cent to close at N11.80, while Lasaco Assurance declined by 9.86 per cent to close at N1.92, per share.
Royal Exchange depreciated by 9.78 per cent to close at 83 kobo, while UPDC declined by
9.76 per cent to close at N2.68, per share. Also, the total volume traded increased by 3.71 per cent to 460.565 million units, valued at N10.105 billion, and exchanged in 14,528 deals. Transactions in the shares of Access Holdings topped the activity chart with 56.498 million shares valued at N1.185 billion. GTCO followed with 51.556 million shares worth N3.430 billion, while Fidelity Bank traded 24.067 million shares valued at N431.615 million.
PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF APRIL/8/25
EDUCATION
Akinyeye: Chrisland School is Shaping Future-ready Nigerians Via Emotional Resilience, Digital Literacy
Mrs. Ayoola Akinyeye is the Director of Chrisland Schools, currently reshaping the education landscape with her innovative vision. In this interview with Funmi Ogundare , she explained her efforts to shape futureready global citizens equipped with the knowledge, emotional resilience, behavioural intelligence, and digital literacy necessary to thrive in an ever-changing world. Excerpts:
What strategies have you implemented to support students and teachers in managing the pressures of exams, and how do you ensure that emotional intelligence is integrated alongside academic excellence in the school’s approach to education?
Current research shows that the attention span of the children we educate has dropped very short for Gen Z or Alpha. They have a shorter attention span, and they give me tips. There’s no running away from that. It has led to struggles in teaching them for many schools and educators, and you often see teachers and administrators wondering how we can educate Gen Z and relate to Gen Z parents. In some instances, some will think it’s a crisis, especially when you think that one in three of the students we teach today has anxiety, real anxiety as a mental health case. I don’t see it as a crisis.
I think it’s a call to change how we teach and revolutionise how we teach, not from the traditional angle but more from an understanding of how they learn, by embracing all that they are and embedding mental health, self-reliance, and resilience into teaching in a way that helps to shape them into future-ready global citizens. So, all we say is that we are shaping global citizens, but many of us have not stepped back to ask ourselves what it really means to be a global citizen. What skills do we need to give? So, we all know the skills we need to give, but do we know what we need to do? Do we know the allowances we need to make? Do we know what is new that we need to do? My task is clear. It is very simple to merge academic excellence with behavioural intelligence. That’s the task. By merging academic excellence and behavioral intelligence, you can foster an ecosystem where students not only excel academically but also thrive emotionally and socially. So many schools have students that thrive academically, as we do in Chrisland. I think the lever is the emotional intelligence and how we bring that to be the balance in our academic process.
There’s a lot of talk about exam pressure. So many schools will do intervention and support classes to get better academic grades. But we don’t. We are not intentional about the emotional support. So in Chrisland now recently as far back as last week, I had a training with all our VP Student Affairs, Astro affairs, and we did a training called Steps to tackle exam pressure and stress, to make sure that just as the teachers and VP academics are preparing the students academically, the VP students are there with an intentional programme to support the pressures. So we did that training.
We’ve cascaded it as we roll into the exam season. I expect that we are probably one of the very few schools with a dedicated programme to managing the pressure that comes with writing exams because those pressures are more real now than ever. So not only did we do the training, we have the handouts and work with some parents, so we’re not just supporting the students, we are supporting the teachers that teach the student, and we’re supporting the parents of the children to understand what is
Akinyeye
exam pressure and how to manage it, because we do put the children under a lot of pressure to accept.
How do you ensure that the school’s policy and practices foster students’ emotional, social and academic growth?
The school has a policy in place, and it becomes effective in implementation. So, how do I make sure it’s effective? I work with a very dynamic team of regional heads or executive heads. My job is largely strategic. My job is to put the policies in place based on research, best practice and acculturation. So we look at what is best practice and what the research is saying, and we situate it to develop policies that work for us, also in implementation. I work with the executive or regional heads team, and regional heads are responsible for turning strategy into operations. They are a tactical group. They have a good understanding of strategy. They have a good understanding of operations because each of the executive heads, by the way, have one school, so it’s easy for them to understand the operations of the school and how a policy gets translated into practice. So, the executive head takes the policies that are written and supports the schools in their region. For instance, they are in charge of regions.
We have regions A, B and C. Each region has five to six schools, depending on the region. So, the executive head is responsible for implementing or making sure those policies are implemented in the regions. They support the teachers in implementation, and where I need to go, they will invite me, and I would
have coaching sessions. I hope I’m accountable to myself, so I’m quite talking, but to make sure that the policies are being implemented. I’m also supported by the quality assurance unit. The quality assurance unit checks that the policies are being implemented. And feedback is sent to me, so they do my spot checks to make sure that if I say write in blue biro, they’re the ones that go into the schools to make sure that the children are writing in blue biro, just like an example of policy implementation. I then have the risk and compliance, which is a unit that is very strong, that also checks for risk and compliance of policies. So, where there’s a breach of policy implementation, the risk and compliance is being contacted, and they then set up the investigation process, which comes to my table for a review. If the policy is not a good policy, we review it. If the policy fails because of human implementation, we can either retrain, if we need to, or change the personality if we find out that it is not the best fit for the position. So, those are the structures in place to ensure that policies are fully implemented.
You talk about revolutionised learning. Apart from teaching, what is Chrisland doing in the area of tech and skills development in building well-rounded students?
We have smart boards in the classrooms, interactive boards. We’ve got the infrastructure, but that is really not how to revolutionize the infrastructure. That itself doesn’t solve it. It’s the quality of learning. We’ve recently relaunched our video on the device. Now, its in the first phase, the three phases, where we get the children to understand digital literacy, and that includes understanding how the world of technology works, the advantages and the disadvantages. We have embedded digital literacy into one of our very popular programmes, which we call ‘Ready for Life’.
It has a number of modules in it. It is taught by default. It’s not an exception. So over and over again, we teach about online safety, about using tech to support your learning. We teach about AI. We teach about plagiarism. We teach about all the dangers. So it’s a part of a curriculum that we’ve always had. All we had to do is just to review it and make sure that it is future-ready. We teach it from the primary all the way to secondary. In the primary, I think they do it once a week. In secondary, they do it once a week, but they have cluster lessons where the children actually get to discuss what it is they have learnt, and bring up their own ideas and solutions to the problems that we are counted. We’re putting devices in the hands of the children. It’s not the wrong strategy for me, what I think is cutting edge which is the way we have been able to embed it in our curriculum. So we are teaching them about digital literacy. We are aware of the dangers of the advantages and how to report online bullying, how to stay safe and recognize it.
Nobody buys a car and gives their child the keys without going to the driving school. So our driving school is our ready-for-life programme where we teach you how to navigate the world of tech. Because it’s a programme, we can update it as tech evolves. Also, our learning delivery policies have been reviewed to ensure that they are very clear guidelines on what teachers cannot do and what they need to watch out for. So, in addition to being ready for life from the students, there are clear policy guidelines that support teachers as well as understanding that teachers have ambitions and are reluctant sometimes, but with the right kind of support policy guidelines, we’ve been running it for almost a year now, and I think we’ve recorded good level of success. We’re ready to move to phase two, which will include rolling out for a greater number of students and deploying additional online resources. So we’re taking it in phases.
How does the school ensure transparency and accountability when handling incidents, and what changes have been made to renew trust with parents?
Partnerships with our parents have never been taken for granted or called into question. We have a very vibrant PTA community led by a chairperson. In my role, I found them extremely supportive, and when I say extremely supportive, they are not puppets supporting me. They’re also very critical friends. They’re very vocal and will tell me what the parents want to see in the school. Their expectations for their children make it easy for me to deliver these promises to them. So, I have a very positive, warm and vibrant relationship with them. I would frequently call them up, individually or collectively, to sound off ideas, discuss initiatives and get their views from a parent’s point of view, so transparency and relationship with the stakeholders would never have been better.
NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com
DELSU Promotes Odiboh as Professor of Mass Communication
The management of Delta State University, Abraka, has promoted Oscar Odiboh as full professor of the Department of Mass Communication, Faculty of Communication and Media Studies.
The promotion resulted from decades of excellent accomplishments in the advertising industry as a thoroughbred professional and a distinguished academic career.
Odiboh had traversed Nigerian universities, such as Covenant University and Edo State University, until his latest appointment.
The new appointee brings his professional and academic excellence to Delta State University, where he will work with other accomplished scholars to take the university to greater heights.
Odiboh is an acclaimed professional with a strong academic drive and a lifetime commitment to the advancement of his students all over the world.
He pioneered Marketology as a philosophy of marketing communication and a new area of study globally. He
simultaneously taught Marketing, Mass Communication, and Advertising as a visiting senior lecturer at three leading Nigerian universities.
Odiboh is also a reviewer, editor, editor-in-chief, and member of several high-impact local and international academic journals.
He worked at Nigeria’s first advertising agency, Lintas Limited, where he established the country’s first research department in any advertising agency.
The don is a communication consultant to some multinational companies. He is also a
country consultant to US-based Percept Global Image and Europe-based OC&C and KEA Associates. He is an examiner, officer, and member of several professional bodies such as the African Council for Communication Education (ACCE), International Advertising Association (IAA), Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), The Institute of Management Consultants (IMC), among others.
The widely travelled researcher is a multiple awardee, both locally and internationally.
ASSESSMENT AND SYMPATHY VISIT OF NEMA TEAM TO INJURED VICTIMS OF COMMUNITIES IN BOKKOS...
L-R: Chief Medical Director, Plateau State Specialist Hospital, Professor Christopher Yilgwan; Director, North Central Zone, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mr. Aliyu Waziri; and Director, Search and Rescue, NEMA, Air Commodore Abang Oyong, during an assessment and sympathy visit of the NEMA team to injured victims receiving treatment at the hospital following the recent attack on some communities in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State on Monday
2027: Perish Idea of Another Presidential Run, APC National Vice Chair Warns Atiku
Urges El-Rufai to reconcile, return to party
The National Vice Chairman, North West of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Hon. Garba Datti, has
urged former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar to perish the thought of another presidential contest in the 2027 elections. He also appealed to the former
governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir El-rufai, to reconcile with and return to the ruling party.
Datti, a member of the National Working Committee (NWC) of APC,
made the call in an open letter addressed to the duo in Abuja, yesterday. He said having been contesting since 1993, Atiku should remain a statesman rather than wasting his
Sanwo-Olu: LASG Will Strengthen Bilateral Relationship with Sweden in Technology, Cybersecurity
Hosts Crown Princess of Sweden at Lagos House, Marina
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Tuesday said the state government will strengthen its bilateral relationship with Sweden in information technology, cybersecurity and infrastructure for the benefit of residents of the state.
Governor Sanwo-Olu spoke during a courtesy visit by the Crown Princess of Sweden and Duchess of Vastergotland, Her Royal Highness, Princess Alice Desiree, and her entourage, at the Lagos House, Marina.
The governor, represented by his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hazmat, said Lagos, as the heartbeat of the country, is essential to Nigeria and important to Africa.
He expressed optimism that the stakeholders meeting of the Swedish representative with the business community in Lagos would birth more development opportunities for
mutual benefits.
His words: “We need a lot of technology. We are building fibre optics of about 6,800 kilometres across our state. We finished the first phase, about 3,500 kilometres, to increase the bandwidth penetration in our state.
“Interestingly, a lot of companies are coming. Google is building a data centre, and other companies are coming. About four data centres are being built now in Lagos.
“So, for IT and other related infrastructure, Lagos is the place. With a population of 22 million, about twice the size of Sweden, the opportunity is wide, and we would like to engage.”
Speaking earlier, the Crown Princess of Sweden and Duchess of Vastergotland, Her Royal Highness, Princess Alice Desiree, in her brief remark, commended the Lagos State
Government for being the economic backbone of Nigeria due to its huge business potential.
“We are very excited to be here and to see what the Swedish-Nigerian relationship can develop into. We see vast areas of potential for further growth and cooperation. We are very happy to be here with the Swedish companies already present in Nigeria,” she said.
Speaking with journalists, the Minister of Infrastructure and Housing within the Government of Sweden, Mr. Andreas Carlson, said the Crown Princess’ visit to Lagos was to build stronger ties for a green economy, digital innovations and the exchange of ideas between Lagos and Sweden for better development.
He disclosed that a Sweden Trade Office, which is the first in Nigeria, will be inaugurated in Lagos on Tuesday
Food Security: FG to Establish Comprehensive Farmers’ Registry
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Aliyu Abdullahi, has said that the federal government plans to establish a comprehensive database of farmers to enhance food security and provide targeted support.
Addressing a press conference in Kano on Tuesday, the minister said the initiative aimed to address challenges in the agricultural sector and boost crop production in the country.
He said the Ministry of Agriculture would team up with the National Identity Management Commission
(NIMC) to register genuine farmers growing different types of crops.
According to him, the initiative aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a food security emergency, which emphasized the importance of a resilient food production ecosystem to combat food inflation and enhance production.
He added that the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS) has mapped out strategies in working with stakeholders, including input producers, distributors, agro-dealers, and farmers on how to assist genuine farmers.
He said: “Agriculture serves as a vital source of the economy, hence it needs optimum commitment towards curtailing challenges affecting agricultural development, especially climate change and soil degradation.”
Speaking also at the 49th Annual Conference of Soil Science Society of Nigeria, with the theme, “Promoting Soil Health and Resilience Through Research and Innovation for Sustainable Agriculture,” the minister expressed the commitment of President Tinubu in advancing agriculture through the various renewed hope Agro initiatives to boost food security in Nigeria.
by Crown Princess Alice Desiree.
He said: “Her Royal Highness the Crown Princess Victoria is here in Lagos to underline the importance of a strong relationship and partnership with Nigeria and Lagos State.
“We see opportunities to strengthen the already strong partnership between our two countries. We see opportunities when it comes to green and digital transition.
“We have well-represented companies already in Lagos. Today the Crown Princess Victoria will inaugurate a Swedish Trade Office here in Lagos, which will be the first trade office in Nigeria. We think Lagos is the place to start. We are really happy about the cooperation we already have.”
time and resources to contest again in 2027.
The APC chieftain, who represented Hon. Datti, who served as a member of the House of Representatives, representing Sabon Gari Federal Constituency of Kaduna State for 16 years urged Atiku and El-Rufai to tread softly ahead of the 2027 elections.
Datti said Atiku should take a cue from another former Vice President, Namadi Sambo, who has been operating in the background and remained an elder statesman since he left office in 2015.
“As we approach the next general election, you are at it again. However, this time around, having sensed that your party, the PDP may not cede the presidential ticket to you, you are now considering joining forces with some aggrieved politicians to form a coalition to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu come 2027.
“For you, Alhaji Atiku, our former Vice President, my freehearted advice is, in your best interest and the interest of Nigerians, it is better you drop the idea of contesting for president in 2027, by which time you would have already turned 80 years.
Datti also urged Atiku not to listen to some politicians likeEl-Rufai, who are dangling the carrot of a coalition to him ahead of 2027.
Migration:
In a bid to mitigate the negative effects of exodus of health workers from the continent to other parts of the world, Nigeria and other African countries on Monday commenced a 4-day capacity training for regulators of healthcare services.
Apart from identifying operational gaps in the regulatory institutions, the training was meant to enable the regulators gain greater wisdom and skills needed for informed strategic and operational decisions.
Speaking at the opening of a 4-Day Capacity Building Workshop organised under the auspices of the
Association of Medical Councils of Africa (AMCOA), the president, Prof. Joel Okullo, said the focus will be on: managing Health workforce mobility, Improving credentialing and Information data management systems.
“Our collaborative efforts today and over the next few days will lay the groundwork for transformative changes that will resonate across the healthcare landscape of Africa. As we delve into the various sessions, I encourage each one of you to engage actively, share your expertise, and gain new perspectives,” he said.
Okullo who expressed concern over reports that no fewer than 16,000 medical professionals had
The former lawmaker further counseled El-Rufai to reconcile with the APC as he was a founding member of the party who toiled to see its success. He noted that, “It is on record that you were part of the founding members of the APC. Having worked for the party tirelessly and served as governor under its platform for eight years, it is rather worrisome that you decided to leave APC at this critical point.”
Datti recalled that when El-Rufai was still serving as governor in 2022, during one of his media chats, he said, “the moment I leave APC, then I have quit politics altogether. At this critical point, you should ponder and reconcile with the APC or quit politics altogether.
“The world knows that it was you who announced that you were not interested in any position in the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration.
“Why should you turn to a critic overnight just because you perceived things were not going your way when you had unfettered access to the leadership of the party and the President?”
“As someone who was once close to you, I want to advise you to refrain from using emotions, sentiments, and unsubstantiated claims/allegations in politics.”
left Nigeria within 5 years, said the training will focus on, “exploring innovative approaches to healthcare regulation and leadership, ensuring that operators of the institutions are well-equipped to meet the evolving needs of our communities.
“We also recognise the importance of embracing technology and innovation in enhancing healthcare delivery. By integrating modern solutions, we can improve efficiency and accessibility, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for our people.
“Let us remain open to new ideas and approaches, as they are the catalysts for growth and improvement,” he said.
Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja
OPENING EVENT OF SEEN, HEARD, UNDERSTOOD, AN EXHIBITION OF THE PAINTINGS...
Egbin Power Picked to Host Nigeria’s First National Data Park, Compute Infrastructure
Peter Uzoho
In a significant move aimed at accelerating Nigeria’s digital economy, Lagos-based power generating company, Egbin Power Plc has been identified as the ideal location to host the nation’s first National Data Park and Compute Infrastructure. The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, announced this yesterday during his visit to the power plant in Lagos.
Received by the Group Managing Director of Sahara Power Group, owners of the power firm, Dr. Kola Adesina and the Chief Executive Officer of Egbin Power, Mr. Mokhtar Bounour, among others, Tijani expressed confidence that Egbin
FRC Expresses Concern over Non-participation of Industrial, Consumer Goods Companies in Adopting Sustainability Reporting Roadmap
Dike Onwuamaeze
The Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC), Dr. Rabiu Olowo, has expressed concern that no company in the Nigerian industrial and consumer goods sector has shown interest in adopting the roadmap for sustainability reporting.
Olowo, expressed his concern yesterday, in a keynote address at the “Industry Specific Workshop on the Implementation of ISSB’S IFRS S1 & S2 for Industrial and Consumer Goods Companies in Nigeria,” which was held in Lagos.
He said: “As a regulator, we are concerned that none of the industrial and consumer goods companies in the sub-sector of the economy is yet
to be part of the adoption roadmap in Nigeria for sustainability reporting.
“We encourage you to join the voluntary phase, which is running between 2024 and 2027 to prepare your entities for the mandatory period of 2028.”
Olowo, who was represented by the former Coordinating Director, Directorate of Accounting Standards Sustainability Reporting, FRC, Dr. Iheanyi Anyahara, recalled that the FRC has been proactive in its involvement in the standard setting process of ISSB’s sustainability reporting from the beginning, by not only declaring its intention to do early adoption but also by constituting a technical think tank known as the Adoption Readiness Working Group for Sustainability Reporting in Nigeria, (ARWG), which
midwifed the adoption roadmap for Nigeria sustainability reporting.
He explained that the roadmap provided regulatory discretionary reliefs with phased implementation of sustainability standard from 2023 to 2030 for reporting and assurance instead of the ISSB’s effective date of 2024.
“This workshop, which is packaged in partnership with Nigeria Integrated Reporting Committee (NIRC), is in furtherance of our resolve to ensure that industrial and consumer goods companies know their onions when it comes to sustainability reporting before the mandatory period.
“Given this background, we cannot reiterate enough the benefits of entities will derive from sustainability reporting,” he said.
AFTER SLAMMING 14% TARIFF, US KICKS AGAINST NIGERIA’S IMPORT BAN ON 25 PRODUCT CATEGORIES
to delays and denials.”
White House Says 104 %Tariff on China Will Take Effect Today
Meanwhile, the U.S. will impose a 104% tariff on China beginning at 12:01 a.m. EDT Wednesday, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a briefing yesterday.
“Starting tomorrow, (today) the White House will begin collecting steep levies on imported goods from China, as President Trump follows through on a threat issued against Beijing on Truth Social Monday.
Mr. Trump on Monday threatened to slap an additional 50% tariff on imports from China after the nation said it would impose a 34% import fee on American products. China’s retaliatory move came after Mr. Trump said China would face a 34% tariff on all goods imported to the U.S., a rate tailored specifically to China.
Mr. Trump also said in his Truth Social post that the U.S. would cease all negotiations with China, while proceeding with trade talks with other nations. China’s commerce ministry on Tuesday asserted that
Beijing would “fight to the end” and take countermeasures against the U.S. if Mr. Trump did not walk back his latest threat.
In the press briefing Tuesday, Leavitt said retaliatory tariffs on roughly 90 countries were designed to open negotiations with the U.S.’s trade partners.
“To countries around the world, bring us your best offers and he will listen,” Leavitt said of Mr. Trump.
“Deals will only be made if they benefit American workers.”
She added that 70 nations have already approached the White House to begin negotiations and presumably lower their assigned tariff rates in exchange for concessions that Mr. Trump deems beneficial to the U.S.
“On the other hand, countries like China, who have chosen to retaliate, and try to double down on their mistreatment of American workers are making a mistake,” Leavitt said.
She also reiterated Mr. Trump’s “firm belief” that the U.S. needs to prioritize the bringing of manufacturing back to the U.S.
“President Trump has a spine of
steel and will not break,” she said, later adding that “a strong America cannot be solely dependent on foreign countries for our food, medicines and critical minerals.”
Critics of Mr. Trump’s tariff agenda, including some prominent Wall Street figures, say levies could stoke inflation and slow the U.S. economy.
“Whether or not the menu of tariffs causes a recession remains in question, but it will slow down growth,” JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon said in his annual letter to shareholders Monday.
Economists are also raising the odds of the U.S. economy entering a recession on Mr. Trump’s reciprocal tariff announcement, with Goldman Sachs analysts on Monday putting the odds of the economy entering a recession within the next 12 months at at 45%, up from 35% in its previous forecast.
Goldman cited tightening financial conditions, consumer boycotts of U.S. goods and uncertainty over the Trump administration’s economic policies, saying those factors are “likely to depress capital spending” by more than the bank had previously forecast.
Power has the right environment to host the Data Park, enabling the Genco to play a crucial role in powering the digital economy.
The groundbreaking initiative, spearheaded by the federal government, aims to harness the power of reliable energy and cutting-edge technology to drive Nigeria’s digital economy forward.
The collaboration between the power-generating company and the federal government underscored a shared vision to enhance the nation’s technological capabilities and foster innovation in the digital sector.
Tijani stated, “Without a digital economy, the growth we seek cannot be realised. Everything we need to truly power the digital economy exists here in Egbin Power—not only in
Beyond corporate leadership, Dozie was deeply interested in Nigeria’s economic development. He was the founding Chairman of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), where he championed private sector-led reforms.
NESG described him as a visionary leader, nation builder, and enduring symbol of integrity, adding that his legacy will continue to shape Nigeria’s economic journey for generations to come.
NESG, in a statement, said, “With profound respect, we mourn the passing of Dr. Pascal G. Dozie, OON, CON Founding Father and Pioneer Chairman Emeritus of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG).
“A visionary leader, nation builder, and enduring symbol of integrity, Dr. Dozie’s legacy will continue to shape Nigeria’s economic journey for generations to come.
“We honour his remarkable life of service, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to national development. May his soul rest in perfect.”
Former Governor of Anambra State and 2023 presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, wrote, “I am deeply saddened this morning by the news of the passing of Dr. Pascal Dozie, a man I held in high esteem. I met him during the formation of Diamond Bank and later MTN Nigeria, and throughout our collaboration, I came to know him as a true gentleman and a teacher who always sought the good of all.”
Obi added, “His legacy as a banker and entrepreneur stands as a testament to his vision, leadership, and commitment to excellence.
“May God Almighty grant him eternal rest, and comfort his family and all of us who mourn his irreplaceable loss.”
A former Minister of Education and prominent public policy advocate,
terms of energy and water, but also in the excellence of the team that runs this facility. That is what is required to fuel the digital economy.”
The minister highlighted the global advancement in artificial intelligence, emphasising the need for Africa to catch up with this momentum.
He stressed the importance of finding innovative ways to participate in this digital phenomenon.
He further noted that Nigeria’s digital economy significantly contributes to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), emphasising that an efficient data centre was vital for harnessing the capabilities of AI and data processing.
The minister also toured the Bright Gyimah Innovation Centre, located within Powerfields Schools, owned by Egbin Power. The Innovation Centre serves as a facility for students to acquire skills in Information Technology (IT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and to explore their creativity in arts, music, and culinary/hospitality fields.
Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, also paid her respects, describing Dozie, “As a foremost pioneer of venture capitalism on our continent who knew how to support start-ups ever before start-ups became a thing.”
A former Minister of Information, Frank Nweke Jr., echoed similar sentiments.
In a tribute posted on LinkedIn, Nweke wrote, “Deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Pascal Dozie, visionary entrepreneur, former central banker, philanthropist, and founder of Diamond Bank. He was deeply committed to good governance and Nigeria’s economic progress.”
Dozie was also known for his humility and grace, qualities that defined both his professional and personal life. He was on the boards of several major corporations. Chief Executive Officer (CEO), MTN Nigeria, Karl Toriola, in a statement, said, “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Pascal Gabriel Dozie, founding Chairman of MTN Nigeria. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.
“A pioneer, statesman, and titan of industry, Dr. Dozie played a pivotal role in the emergence of mobile telephony in Nigeria and in shaping the MTN Nigeria story.
He brought insight, experience, and leadership at a time when bold vision was essential.
“He was instrumental in securing the early support and investment that brought the Y’ello dream to life. On May 16, 2001, he made the first call on the MTN network, a historic moment in Nigeria’s telecommunications journey.”
Toriola added, “For 18 years, from 2001 to 2019, Dr. Dozie served as Chairman, leading with strength and conviction. His presence on the Board
Commenting on the strategic collaboration, GMD of Sahara Power, Adesina, said, “There is a nexus between the digital economy and power. Reliable power enhances the functionality of the digital economy, whether in terms of the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), data utilisation, and more.” He expressed commitment to supporting the establishment of a National Data Park and Compute Centre and other IT infrastructure required for the digital economy.
was unifying. He championed good governance, corporate responsibility, and long-term value, deeply committed to the greater good. In challenging times, he remained a stabilising force.
“His unwavering belief in Nigeria’s potential and his dedication to its development were truly inspiring. His leadership at MTN Nigeria laid the foundation for our success, and his legacy will continue to guide us in the years to come.”
The statement listed some landmark contributions of the deceased to include the incorporation of the MTN Nigeria Foundation in 2004, “and our commitment to dedicating a percentage of profit after tax to social investments; launch of one of Africa’s largest switching centres in 2010; his significant role in 2015 during critical conversations around the regulatory fine and its resolution.”
Dozie’s contributions also included, “The introduction of Africa’s first 3G feature phone in 2018 and MTN Nigeria’s listing in 2019 on the premium board of the Nigerian Exchange,” the statement said.
CEO, Cowry Assets Management, Johnson Chukwu, wrote, “One of the great men who created the personality that is today known as Johnson Chukwu is no more. I feel weak and sad but I thank God for the privilege of having Dr. Pascal Dozie as one of my mentors.
“PGD was a great man who built so many others. I am proud to say that I am one of those who passed through his tutelage. One of the memorable quotes I imbibed from him is ‘life is not a sprint but a long distance race.’
“PGD also taught me that ‘whatever you are is not of your making but from God.’ He will forever be remembered. His legacy will never die. May the Almighty God grant his soul eternal rest.”
L-R: Head, Special Projects and Mental Health, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Tolu Ajomale; Founder, Mydrim Gallery, Mrs. Sinmidele Adesanya; the artist, Miss Christine Mike-Nnaji; the artist’s mother, Mrs. Nonye Mike Nnaji; and Guest of Honour, Mrs. Remi Soyanwo, at the opening event of SEEN, HEARD, UNDERSTOOD, an exhibition of the paintings of Christine Mike-Nnaji, an autistic young lady, held at Mydrim Gallery in Lagos… recently
TINUBU, INDUSTRY LEADERS MOURN VISIONARY BANKER, BUSINESS ICON, PASCAL DOZIE
Again, Residents Protest Killing of Four Farmers in Ondo
As assailants kill socialite in hotel
Fidelis David in Akure
Farmers from 13 farming settlement in the Ajagbusi area of Ala Elefosan in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State yesterday protested the fresh killing of four farmers by suspected herdsmen in the community.
This came few weeks after protesters shut the governor’s
office at Alagbaka, Akure, the state capital, over the killing of another five farmers by armed herdsmen.
Angered by the latest incident, the protesters marched to the popular ShopRite roundabout in the state capital, barricaded the road leading to the governor’s office, causing gridlock for several hours.
They explained that the
PAP Distributes Laptops to Final Year, PG Scholarship Students
The Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) has commenced the distribution of laptops to final year and post-graduate students under its scholarship scheme in partnering universities across the country.
Already, 64 PAP scholarship beneficiaries, made up of 25 students from Nile University and 39 from Baze University, have been presented with their laptops in the first phase of the distribution. The total figure comprises 60 final year, one doctor of philosophy, and three masters degree students.
Speaking at the presentation ceremonies at Nile and Baze universities, the PAP Administrator, Dr. Dennis Otuaro, said that the gesture was in fulfillment of his promise to the scholarship beneficiaries during his tour of partnering institutions in 2024.
He said the office recognised the usefulness of the mobile computing device to the students’ academic success, especially as they prepare to write their final year projects, thesis and dissertations.
Otuaro, who was represented
respectively at the events by PAP’s acting head of administration, Ebikpolade Zorab, and Secretary to the PAP boss, Ebimene Jackson, urged the scholars to make good use of the laptops and justify the objective behind the gesture.
Addressing the students, he said: “You are the first set of PAP scholarship students that are receiving these laptops, and we will also extend this (distribution) to other beneficiaries in other institutions that we are partnering with.
“I advise and encourage you to make good use of it for your academic progress. With these laptops, if you were to make a low grade in your project, we expect that you will score excellent grades because you now have portable computers to enhance your academic endeavours.”
Otuaro reiterated his leadership’s unwavering commitment to closing the human capital development gap in the Niger Delta, while working to ensure sustainable peace, security, stability and development in the region.
victims were killed in the early hours of Tuesday while on their way to the farm.
Specifically, the protesters who were armed with leaves brought the corpses of the victims to the scene of the protest, urging the state
government to fish out the killers.
The protesters, who explained that the attack has thrown the community in Akure North into mourning, demanded immediate action from Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to address
the relentless attacks on farming communities.
The traditional ruler of Adeshina Community, Taiwo Samuel, described the incident as one too many. His words: “Three farmers were killed in the 13 camp in the
attacked them and shot them. One person was also killed two days ago.
NUJ Condemns Police Brutality, Assault on Rivers’ Journalists
Blessing Ibunge inPortHarcourt
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Rivers State Council, has condemned the brutality and assault meted on journalists in the state by the men of the state Police Command.
It would be recalled that some journalists covering a peaceful
protest by civil society groups in Port Harcourt were brutalised, and tear gas canisters shot by the policemen who claimed to be acting on order.
The union, however, has described “the assault on Charles Opurum of Channels Television; Allwell Ene of Naija FM; Soibelemari Oruwari of Nigeria/Info; Ikezam
Godswill of AIT, and Femi Ogunkhilede of Super FM,” as unprovoked, barbaric, inhuman and a violation of their rights.
According to the statement signed by the state Chairman of the NUJ, Paul Bazia, and Secretary, Ijeoma Tubosia, “The four members of the NUJ were tear gassed by the police while carrying out their legitimate duties of covering a peaceful protest in Port Harcourt. Opurum was even arrested and detained for a period of time by the security agents.”
The NUJ further regretted that “a security agency paid to protect lives and property could turn itself into a monster terrorising innocent citizens, particularly journalists in the state.”
Communal Disputes: Adeleke Reduces 24-hour Curfew to 12 Hours
YinkaKolawoleinOsogbo
Premised on the gradual return to peace in the three warring communities of Ilobu, Ifon, and Erin Osun in both Irepodun and Ifon-Orolu Local Government Areas of Osun State, the state Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has
directed that the hitherto 17 hours curfew imposed by his administration in the three warring communities be relaxed to 12 hours. The relaxation of the curfew is sequel to the different security reports reaching the governor that the much expected ceasefire is taking the centre stage on a daily basis.
Accordingly, the governor has
directed that the curfew should, beginning from yesterday, commence from 7p.m. to 7a.m. on a daily basis until further notice.
A statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, quoted Governor, Adeleke as saying: “Now that
peace is gaining the centre stage on a daily basis, it gladdens my heart, as the governor and Chief Security Officer of Osun State, to announce the relaxation of the curfew earlier imposed on Ifon-Ilobu- Erin Osun communities from 17 hours to 12 hours daily with effect from today (yesterday).
Fed Varsity Lokoja Warns against Social Vices, Admits 7,571 Students
Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja
The management of the Federal University Lokoja (FUL) has warned its new intakes that the institution has zero tolerance for any form of social vices as it admitted fewer than 7571 students for 2024/2025 academic session.
The Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Olayemi
Audu Presents Letter of Appointment to New MD of Ajaokuta Steel Company
Kasim Sumaina in Abuja
The Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, has officially received the newly appointed Managing Director of the Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited (ASCL), Prof. Nasir Naeem Abdulsalam and presented him with an appointment letter following
the handover by the former acting Sole Administrator, Engr. Kanwai Joseph, to the new leadership.
Speaking at the handover ceremony held in Abuja, Prince Audu expressed confidence in Prof. Abdulsalam’s ability to lead Ajaokuta Steel Company in alignment with the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for the revival
of the moribund steel plant.
The minister also extended his appreciation to the outgoing acting Sole Administrator, Joseph, commending his dedication to duty all through his almost 35 years of service at the steel plant where he rose from an entry level engineer to the helm of affairs as acting as sole administrator in the last six months.
AWAMN Demands Enabling Environment for Efficient
Waste Mgt
Akinwunmi, gave this warning while speaking at 13th matriculation of the Federal University Lokoja yesterday.
Akinwunmi noted that the university has zero tolerance for laziness, academic misconduct, or deviant behaviour.
“Any student who fails to live up to the expectations of academic diligence and discipline will be shown the way out. I say this not to scare you, but to prepare your minds for the serious business ahead.
“Work hard so that you can graduate in record time. Avoid unnecessary delays in your studies. Shun bad company and do not allow anyone to mislead or derail you from your goals.
The Association of Waste Managers of Nigeria (AWAMN) has called for an enabling environment for its members to deliver efficient and effective waste management in Lagos state.
He added that the duo should sit down and chart a course to remove the challenges in the waste management value chain.
He expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Government, through the Lagos Waste Management
President , AWAMN, Mr Olugbenga Adebola, made the call in a chat in Lagos, saying that effective and efficient waste management require the commitment and collaboration of government and the Private Sector Participants (PSPs) operators.
Authority (LAWMA) for graciously committing to the provision of compactor trucks to PSPs on the lease to own model.
“We would like to thank the LASG, the Managing Director of LAWMA who has graciously announced to the whole world that they are buying compacting trucks on the lease to own for PSP operators.”
Ex-Abia Gov, Senator Orji Refutes Fraud Allegations
Former Governor of Abia State, Senator Theodore Orji, has strongly condemned a recent publication that falsely accused him of fraudulent activities in connection with Effdee Nigeria Limited.
In a statement from his liaison office, Senator Orji decried the report as a deliberate attempt to smear his hard-earned reputation.
The publication, he said, was riddled with falsehoods, calling it “baseless” and “malicious,” and accused its authors of failing to conduct proper fact-checking.
One of the glaring inaccuracies cited in the statement was the claim that Senator Orji served as Governor in 2016 and 2017, whereas his tenure ended in May 2015.
The statement also dismissed as false any associations between Senator Orji and Mr. Uchenna Erondu or Mr. Austin Akuma, emphasising that neither individual had any role in his administration.
Human Rights Lawyers Decry Ban on Kano Sallah Durbar
Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano
The National Forum of Kano Indigene Lawyers has condemned the recent ban on Sallah Durbar festivities across the four Kano Emirates, describing it as a violation of cultural and human rights protected under national and international law.
Addressing journalists after submitting an open letter to the Commissioner of Police, Kano State Command, leader of the group Barrister Usman Imam Tudun Wazirchi, expressed gratitude to the police for maintaining relative peace during the Sallah period.
However, they criticised the decision to prohibit
Durbar celebrations, calling it “a denial of cultural rights and historical expression of identity.
They also kicked against the police attempt to indict Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi, for attack staged on the palace guards where one of the vigilance attached to the palace killed.
Ajagbusi area of Ala Elefosan in Akure North Local Council. They were on their way to the farm this morning (Tuesday) when the Fulani herdsmen
Bayelsa Stuns Delta, Edo to Emerge Champion of Niger Delta Sports Festival
Okon Bassey in Uyo
After Team Bayelsa shocked powerhouses in Nigerian sports, Delta and Edo states to yesterday win the inaugural Niger Delta Sports Festival in Uyo,Akwa Ibom State, sponsored by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Bayelsa State’s Commissioner for Sports, Hon Daniel Igali, has insisted that the team must be prepared to raise the bar.
Bayelsa and Delta athletes ran a close race for the top spot. At the end, just one gold medal swung the contest the way of Bayelsa as they finished with 42 gold medals while Delta grossed 41. Edo was a distant third with 23 gold medals.
But Igali who won Olympic
wrestling gold medal for Canada before return home to help put life back into Nigeria’s wrestling, said in as much as he would allow the Bayelsa athletes to revel in their feat of winning the maiden Niger Delta Sports Festival, they must not take their eyes off the bigger picture which is the National Sports Festival scheduled to hold next month in Ogun State.
“While we revel in this remarkable achievement, our eyes must now turn to the bigger challenge ahead — the National Sports Festival, Gateway 2025, in Ogun State. It’s time to rest, recover, and prepare to raise the bar once again,” observed Igali.
In what sports chroniclers consider as upset, Team Bayelsa edged hitherto
front liners, Delta and Edo states to etch their name in history.
It was a very outstanding performance across various sports during the week-long events as Bayelsa and Delta athletes ran a close race for the top spot.
The sporting fiesta, which brought together athletes from the nine mandate states of the NDDC that include; host Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Ondo, Imo and Abia states, showcased thrilling contests, raw talents, and exceptional competitiveness — but it was Team Bayelsa that stole the show with their dominance in medal haul.
Team Bayelsa hauled a total of 86 medals comprising 42 gold, 29 silver, and 15 bronze — a performance
that proved too strong for their closest rivals.
Delta State, despite a spirited effort and finishing with the highest number of medals overall (99), settled for second place after recording 41 gold, 26 silver, and 32 bronze medals.
Edo State claimed the third position with a combined haul of 89 medals, which included 23 gold, 35 silver, and 31 bronze medals.
In fourth place is Rivers State which finished with 21 gold, 16 silver, and 26 bronze medals, making a total of 63 medals.
Ondo State secured the fifth position with 10 gold, 18 silver, and 15 bronze medals to tally 43, while the host state, Akwa Ibom, managed a sixth-place finish with a medal haul
Rice Scores Two Free-kicks as Arsenal Crush Real Madrid at Emirates
Declan Rice scored two excellent second-half free-kicks as Arsenal stunned Real Madrid 3-0 in the Champions League quarter-finals at Emirates Stadium to take a three-goal advantage into the second leg.
Mikel Arteta had asked the Arsenal fans to arrive early to create an impressive atmosphere inside the stadium, and the team responded by starting the game quickly with a number of dangerous crosses into the Madrid penalty area. It took until the 20th minute for Madrid to have their first real chance, when Vinicius Jr curled an effort wide.
But Rice took control of the tie for Arsenal in the second half.
The Gunners were the better side all evening and took the lead in the 58th minute, when Rice curled the first of two excellent free-kicks round the Real Madrid wall into the corner of the net past Thibaut Courtois.
Rice scored his second of the night with a free-kick of equal quality 12 minutes later, bending another long-range effort into the top right-hand corner to leave Madrid stunned.
Mikel Merino then made sure it was a memorable night for Arsenal when he curled a shot into the bottom corner from inside the area just five minutes later.
Things only got worse for Madrid when Eduardo Camavinga was sent off in stoppage
time for picking up a second yellow card.
Arsenal have not reached the semi-finals stage of the Champions League since the 2008-09 season, but they have given themselves a huge chance of progressing to the last four with this result.
Declan Rice scored brace as Arsenal defeated Real Madrid 3-0 in the first leg, quarter final of the
in London on Tuesday night
of 9 gold, 14 silver, and 14 bronze medals totaling 37 medals.
Abia State followed closely in seventh position with 9 gold, 10 silver, and 13 bronze medals (32 in total), while Imo State placed eighth with 6 gold, 12 silver, and 24 bronze medals amounting to 42.
Cross River State, despite its gallant efforts, finished at the bottom of the medals table with 5 gold, 7 silver, and 19 bronze medals, totaling 31. Bayelsa’s victory in Uyo is expected to further boost enthusiasm for sports in the state as their athletes proved their readiness to dominate the region in future competitions. The success of the inaugural Niger Delta Sports Festival has set the tone for what promises to become a flagship event in the region’s sports calendar, with calls already mounting for the next edition to surpass the achievements recorded in Uyo.
NPFL Summons Lobi Stars’ Media Officer over Betting Allegations
A summons has been handed to the Media Officer of Lobi Stars, Emmanuel Ujah, to appear for an inquest into a publication in which he suggested that players were engaging in betting activities on the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
The NPFL set up the panel to sit on Wednesday, April 9 for Ujah to throw more light on the claims he made in writing and audio recording.
Signed by the Chief Operating Officer, Davidson Owumi, the invitation read in part, “we have taken note of certain remarks which borders on alleged match fixing and players betting in relation to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) matches and fixtures.
“The said report appear to contravene the League’s Code of Conduct for Officials by casting aspersions on the integrity of the NPFL and the League’s governance structure.
“These actions are considered detrimental to the reputation of the NPFL and its stakeholders”. The NPFL Board Disciplinary Committee has scheduled the inquest to hold on Wednesday, April 9 at its Abuja office. The invitation which was routed through the club management stated that the appearance of their media officer is mandatory. He is required to come with any relevant evidence or representation to support the claims in the said publication.
Ronaldo Pays Tribute After Death of Former Coach
Cristiano Ronaldo has paid tribute following the death on Tuesday of the coach who discovered him and several other elite Portuguese players.
Aurelio da Silva Pereira, who died aged 77, created Sporting Lisbon’s recruitment and training department in 1988 and went on to be responsible for the development of some of Portugal’s finest players.
The list of players he discovered and nurtured includes Ronaldo, Luis Figo, Nani and Ricardo Quaresma.
“One of the greatest symbols of world training has left us, but his legacy will live on forever,” Ronaldo postedon social media.
“I will never stop being grateful for everything he did for me and for so many other players. Until forever, Mr. Aurelio, thank you for everything. Rest in peace.” Aurelio Pereira was partly responsible for Portugal’s greatest football achievement, as the Euro 2016-winning squad featured 10 players he helped to discover. That team was nicknamed the ‘Aurelios’.
In 2017, he received the Medal of Sporting Merit from the City of Lisbon and, in 2018, Uefa distinguished him with the Order of Merit for his contribution to the development of Portuguese and European football.
2500 Athletes from 155 Secondary Schools Set to Battle for MTN CHAMPS Honours in Lagos
More than 2,500 athletes from 155 secondary schools and 158 other Teams (Clubs, States, Universities, etc) will begin their quest for glory as the MTN CHAMPS Continental Relays takes centre stage in Lagos from today, April 9th to April 12th. The competition will unfold simultaneously across two venues: the Yabatech Sports Complex and the UNILAG Sports Complex. Speaking at the press conference to herald the third edition of the MTN CHAMPS Continental Relays held at MTN’s Headquarters in Lagos, yesterday,
MTN’s Chief Marketing Officer, Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, describes the MTN CHAMPS as a platform that continues to grow, inspire, and transform the future of athletics in Nigeria.
“MTN CHAMPS is a platform that continues to grow, inspire, and transform the future of Athletics in Nigeria. At MTN, we’ve been committed to supporting the dreams and aspirations of Nigerians, not only through innovative solutions, but also through active involvement in socially impactful initiatives and programmes. This is why we are
actively involved in sports, especially in Football and Athletics. In 2023, we launched the MTN CHAMPS with a clear vision to discover and nurture young Athletic talents with the goal of building future Olympians for Nigeria,” observed the MTN’s CMO.
She further expressed her delight at having the 20 top athletes selected from the MTN CHAMPS at the press conference.
“We have also discovered and selected 20 exceptional talents from different parts of Nigeria and they are here today where
they are receiving coaching and training to represent Nigeria in future championships,” stressed Ikenna-Emeka.
Representing Making of Champions (MoC) Founder/CEO, Bambo Akani, at the event, Deji Ogeyingbo said: “At Making of Champions, we’ve made it a mandate to revive Track and Field in Nigeria. It’s our biggest sport judging by the medals we’ve won at the Olympics. Out of the 27 medals won in total, 14 are from Athletics alone. We have the talent. How can we transition this talent to ensure that we win
medals at the Olympic Games and the World Championships? We all love the fact that Tobi Amusan did something great about three years ago at the World Championships where she broke the World Record, and we need to be able to consistently replicate that.” The Director General of the Lagos Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu, affirmed Lagos State’s support for sports development. There were also goodwill messages from the Athletics Federation of Nigeria as well as the Nigerian School Sports Federation.
Team Bayelsa Captain and officials with the overall first prize trophy and dummy cheque of N50million as champions of the inaugural Niger Delta Sports Festival that ended in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State ...on Tuesday afternoon
Champions League at the Emirates Stadium
MISSILE
Afe Babalola to NUC, NASS
“Mass approval of mushroom and substandard universities, with some, lacking in even the basic learning facilities and infrastructure...NUC’s ability to ensure quality control, and to stamp out substandard institutions, have been seriously compromised. We currently have over 270 universities in Nigeria, and proposals for the approval of another 200 new institutions are currently under consideration by the National Assembly” --LegalLuminary, AfeBabalola,raisesthealarmoverproliferationofsubstandarduniversities.
MAGNUSONYIBE
At 73, Tinubu in the Race to 2027
My family and I join millions of Nigerians in extending our warmest birthday wishes to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a formidable political strategist of our time, as he turns 73.
This particular birthday holds unique significance, as it coincides with the conclusion of Ramadan and the observance of Christian Lenten period. For Tinubu, a devout Muslim, celebrating his birthday on March 29 at the end of one of Islam’s most sacred periods—Ramadan—adds a profound spiritual dimension. Additionally, the fact that it aligns with the period of Lent being observed by his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, a pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), makes it even more remarkable. The convergence of these three significant religious events is certainly noteworthy. It is, therefore, unsurprising that the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, paid a heartfelt tribute to her husband, referring to him as her “knight in shining armor.”
For those unfamiliar with the phrase, “knight in shining armor” originates from medieval European folklore and symbolizes chivalry, bravery, honor, and unwavering loyalty. This image, which first emerged in 12th-century literature, embodies key virtues such as:
1. Chivalry – Upholding a code of honor, loyalty, and the protection of the weak.
2. Bravery – Courageously facing challenges and adversity.
3. Loyalty – Demonstrating steadfast devotion to one’s cause, country, and loved ones.
4. Honor – Committing to principles that uphold personal and family integrity.
These attributes align closely with Tinubu’s public service record. From his early days as a pro-democracy activist to his tenure as a senator, governor, and national leader of the ruling party, he has consistently demonstrated political resilience and strategic brilliance. It is in this context that the First Lady’s description of him as “My Knight in Shining Armor” appears fitting.
Beyond his wife’s admiration, Tinubu has also received praise from past Nigerian leaders. Former President Muhammadu Buhari, under whom Tinubu served as the ruling party’s key strategist, described him as an influential figure in Nigeria’s political history:
“No doubt, the annals of the country will not be complete without mentioning President Tinubu’s significant roles as an entrepreneur, party stalwart, activist, and a serial winner of democratic elections. I am truly proud of my association with Asiwaju.”
Similarly, former Military President Ibrahim Babangida, under whose regime Tinubu was forced into exile due to his pro-democracy activism, acknowledged his leadership qualities:
“There comes a time in the life of a nation when an uncommon personality and courageous disposition define the essence of problem-solving leadership. With your background in the struggle for the emancipation of ordinary Nigerians and your commitment to deepening democracy, your history speaks for itself.”
Babangida further praised Tinubu’s resilience, stating:
“You have come to lead Nigeria at a very challenging time in our history, and your leadership thus far has been remarkable, bold, and encouraging. Only those who have been in leadership positions understand the complexities
involved in governing a nation like Nigeria.”
These endorsements reinforce Tinubu’s political standing. However, as he marks this milestone, opposition forces are mobilizing to challenge his presidency in the 2027 election.
Going by his concluding part of his tribute, Babangida has apparently endorsed Tinubu for a second term.
“A results-oriented and pragmatic leader like you is well-suited to tackle the current challenges, particularly given the innovative policies and strategic direction your administration has pursued so far.”
Babangida’s tribute stands out to me because, in several of my past media engagements, I have argued that President Tinubu is making the tough decisions that Babangida, as a former military head of state, was unable to implement to rescue Nigeria from economic decline. Specifically, Babangida’s failure to fully execute the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) of 1984/85—choosing instead to step aside under pressure—plunged the country into a state of arrested development, leading to the socio-economic and political struggles that persist today and which Tinubu’s reforms are dismantling.
It is noteworthy and commendable that Babangida himself has acknowledged Tinubu’s determination to follow through on difficult reforms, a path he hesitated to complete before stepping down in 1993.
Even former President Muhammadu Buhari— whose tenure as a military ruler from 1983 to 1985 was marked by repression, rivaled only by General Sani Abacha’s rule from 1993 to 1998—has given due recognition to Tinubu’s critical role in helping him achieve the presidency in 2015 after multiple failed attempts.
For me, the key takeaway from the tributes by both Buhari and Babangida is that they reinforce the “Knight in Shining Armor” title bestowed upon Tinubu by his wife, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu. Their acknowledgments align with the characteristics of a knight: chivalry, bravery, loyalty, and honor.
While we have yet to see birthday tributes from other former Nigerian leaders like General Abdulsalami Abubakar and former President Goodluck Jonathan, there appears to be a broad consensus on Tinubu’s political influence.
I have previously stated that Tinubu is implementing reforms that past leaders should have introduced and completed over the last
four -five decades.
In his book Political Style: The Artistry of Power (1995), Robert Hariman examines the political craftsmanship of historical figures, including Vaclav Havel, Ronald Reagan, and Bill Clinton. He highlights how each leader’s style shapes their political effectiveness and the crises they encounter.
Tinubu exemplifies this idea of political artistry. Aristotle famously described humans as “political animals,” naturally inclined to engage in governance and power dynamics. Though trained as an accountant, Tinubu has evolved into a master politician, refining his approach from his early days as a senator under Babangida’s transition to democracy. His journey—from opposition leader to president—has drawn both admiration and criticism, particularly from former allies like Nasir El-Rufai and Rotimi Amaechi, who are now among his growing list of political adversaries.
Hariman identifies four dominant political styles in his book:
1. Realist Style – Rooted in Machiavelli’s The Prince, this approach prioritizes power, calculation, and emotional control.
2. Courtly Style – As seen in Kapuscinski’s The Emperor, it revolves around hierarchy, decorum, and reverence for leadership.
3. Republican Style – Inspired by Cicero, this style emphasizes rhetoric, consensus-building, and civility.
4. Bureaucratic Style – Echoing Kafka’s The Castle, this focuses on institutional procedures and governance structures.
Tinubu has, at different times, demonstrated elements of these styles. His distinct mannerisms, strategic thinking, and political resilience have made him a phenomenon in Nigeria’s contemporary political landscape.
This explains why, ahead of the 2023 presidential election, he confidently declared “Emi lo kan” (It’s my turn) in Yoruba, asserting his right to lead after years of king-making—a claim even former President Buhari acknowledged.
Despite his proximity to power, Tinubu faced significant obstacles, including the naira redesign policy, which created cash shortages and threatened his campaign. He later recounted how a close associate questioned whether he could succeed under such conditions. Yet, he remained resolute, stating, “I will make it.” True to his words, he secured the presidency.
In my book Becoming President of Nigeria: A Citizen’s Guide (2023), released before the party primaries, I argued that Tinubu had a strong chance of winning the presidency, even though zoning considerations had not officially favored him.
In chapter six (6) titled Political Frenzy and Fireworks Surrounding the Jostle for Presidency of Nigeria in 2023 Against a Politician from the Yoruba Ethnic Stock as detailed from pages 99-110, the case was made for Tinubu’s eligibility based on former Ogun state governor, and elder statesman,Aremo Segun Osoba’s optics.
At that time, Peter Obi’s rise through the Labour Party was not yet fully in play. In the Conclusion chapter of the book (p.301) one had also predicted the contest would primarily be between Tinubu (APC) and Atiku Abubakar (PDP).
All that is contained in my article titled “How to Become the President of Nigeria , 2023” first published on September 15, 2021 by Thecable. ng and later on page 331 -332 in my book by
the same title published in 2023. Tinubu’s political acumen is well-established. However, some believe he may have weakened his position by declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2024. Critics argue this move could alienate Niger Deltans, while his supporters maintain that he acted decisively to prevent a violent crisis in the volatile region. Among his challengers is Nasir El-Rufai, the former Kaduna governor who was instrumental in Tinubu’s 2023 victory but was later sidelined from a ministerial position, after being nominated. El-Rufai is reportedly working to unify opposition parties under the Social Democratic Party (SDP) to replicate Tinubu’s 2015 strategy against the PDP. Whether he will succeed remains to be seen.
Another formidable opponent is Rotimi Amaechi, the former Rivers governor and transportation minister, who contested against Tinubu in the APC primaries. While it wise not to take any threat forgranted, he may not be such a threat as his influence in Rivers state politics has been whittled down by the immediate past governor and current minister of the F.C.T, Nyesom Wike.
An anecdote: ‘l once asked a wiseman, how do l know who is real (amongst my followers) and he replied, ‘Remove the benefits and see who’s left’ appears to ring true in Rivers state, as loyalty is being determined by who is benefiting and who has the ability and capacity to keep dispensing benefits.
Regardless of opposition, Tinubu remains a master strategist who has reshaped Nigeria’s political landscape. His ability to build coalitions and outmaneuver opponents was evident in the formation of the APC, which unseated the PDP in 2015. As governor of Lagos, his policies—including the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system and revenue reforms—laid the foundation for the state’s economic growth. His adaptability is another strength. Over the years, he has adjusted to shifting political realities, often turning challenges into opportunities.
Of course, Tinubu is not without controversy. Some critics allege discrepancies in his age, questioning whether he is truly 73, as officially stated, or older, based on past reports. However, in a world where information can be manipulated with Aritificial Inteligence tools, such claims remain unverified. Moreover, age falsification is widespread among Nigerian civil servants, with many reducing their official ages to extend their careers.
To address this issue, the National Assembly should consider criminalizing age falsification and making it highly enforceable as part of the ongoing constitutional review.
Ultimately, Tinubu’s rise to power is a testament to his political skills. While some admire his leadership, others strongly oppose his methods. But instead of resorting to insults to me for this analysis based on objective principles, critics should articulate their reasons for opposing him so that meaningful political discourse around the strenghts and weakness of president Tinubu’s reforms can take place.
On that note, once again, on behalf of my family and l, happy birthday, Mr. President—Asiwaju of Lagos and Jagaban of Borgu, and congrats to madam first Lady Oluremi Tinubu who has been standing by her husband like the Rock of Gilbraltar.
