THEWILL NEWSPAPER, March 24, 2024

Busola Komolafe is an international award-winning filmmaker, TV producer, and content specialist. She is the Senior Channels Manager at Paramount Africa, overseeing production and programming strategy for the Paramount Channel Brands (MTVBase, BET Africa, Comedy Central Nickelodeon) in Nigeria and the rest of Africa. As the Senior Channels Manager, understanding viewers’ distinct preferences and interests for MTV Base, BET Africa, Comedy Central, MTV and Nickelodeon is a significant part of her role.

Diversity is also a key focus, as Busola Komolafe and her team aim to offer content that resonates with African cultures.

Busola has a few feathers on her cap. As a filmmaker, her short film Phantom won the award for Best Short Film at the Toronto Nollywood International Film Festival and the Best Short Film award at the International World Film Awards. To say she is a woman of many talents is an understatement. Busola’s story is quite interesting; from being a presenter and producer at NTA to becoming the Senior Channels Manager at Paramount, the sky is her limit. See pages 8 to 10 for her story.

Our other pages make for exciting reads.

The fashion pages discuss the dos and don’ts of cocktail attire for women. It delves into the rules to follow if your invitation says cocktail attire. You’ll find this on pages 4 and 5.

The beauty page examines the many benefits of face sheet masks, their hydrating, toning, and moisturising qualities, and how they address many skin concerns. Go to page 13 for this.

Our food page, Bon Appetit, brings you culinary delight from Morocco: Tagine. It is truly scrumptious.

Until next week, enjoy your read.

COVER

10 YEARS AFTER CHIBOK:

Anxiety as Terrorists Seize Over 500 School Kids, Women

This is definitely not the best of times for schoolchildren in the North as well as their parents and guardians as the general insecurity in the region has not abated a bit almost 10 years after the Chibok girls' abduction.

THEWILL recalls that 276 female students of Government Girls Secondary School, Chibok, Borno State, were kidnapped by Boko Haram on the night of April 14, 2014, in what went down in history as the first mass abduction in the history of Nigeria.

Sadly, about 98 of the abducted Chibok girls remain in captivity almost 10 years after the ugly and embarrassing incident as a 2013 report by Save the Children International put the number of school children abducted since 2014 at over 1,680.

Lamenting the upsurge in the attacks on school children in the 2023 report, Save the Children noted that the attacks on schools have been continuing out of the spotlight and highlights the violence that schoolchildren and teachers face across Nigeria.

"In addition to the abductions, over 180 schoolchildren were killed and nearly 90 injured in 70 attacks between April 2014 and December 2022, with an estimated 60 school staff kidnapped and 14 killed.

''Twenty-five school buildings were reportedly destroyed during that period,'' the international non-governmental

organisation stated, adding that the majority of these attacks took place in the North-West with 49 attacks and NorthCentral with 11 attacks.

“These attacks have long-lasting consequences for communities and for children’s access to education, often leading to the mass withdrawal of children from school and school closures. In Katsina State in the north-western part of the country, nearly 100 schools remain closed due to insecurity, affecting the education of over 30,000 children.”

Now, dare-devil bandits and terrorists are holding well over 500 schoolchildren and women in captivity from recent abductions across the North at a time their counterparts in other parts of the country are pursuing their educational development and going about their normal daily lives.

The recent upsurge in abductions especially in Kaduna, Sokoto and Borno States, targeting school children and women, has all the signatures of Boko Haram, especially with the outrageous ransom being demanded by the bandits as condition for the release of the school kids and women.

To date, over five mass abductions of schoolchildren have taken place in Kaduna State with heavy sums of money paid to the bandits as ransom despite heavy military and security presence in the state.

A fortnight ago, the state entered the inglorious record books as the most dangerous state for schoolchildren and women in the country now as dare-devil bandits stormed the LEA Primary School and the Government Secondary School, Kuriga, Chikun Local Government Area, making away with

276 school children and staff in yet another mass abduction.

Just a week before the Kaduna attack, Boko Haram had kidnapped over 200 women and children from an Internally Displaced Peoples' camp in Borno State, while some schoolchildren were kidnapped in Sokoto State, just about the same time.

All these are coming despite all the efforts of the security forces to dislodge the bandits from their various hideouts in the North-East, North-West and North-Central geo-political zones.

BANDITS TALKING TOUGH

The bandits have placed a whopping N1 billion ransom for the release of the Kaduna schoolchildren as they threatened to kill them after 20 days if their demands are not met.

Confirming the callous demand of the terrorists, spokesman of the families of the abducted children, Jubril Aminu, said: “They made a total of a 1 billion (naira) ransom demand for all the pupils and staff of the school.

“They gave an ultimatum to pay the ransom within 20 days, effective from the date of the kidnap. They said they will kill all the students and the staff if the ransom demand is not met.”

FG VOWS NOT TO PAY A DIME

While the Kaduna State Government appears to be confused and overwhelmed by the upsurge in abductions in the state and the outrageous ransom being demanded as conditions

COVER

...Terrorists Seize Over 500 School Kids, Women

for the release of those kidnapped, the Federal Government is talking tough, saying it won't pay a dime for the release of the abducted children.

President Bola Tinubu, while reacting to the recent abductions in Kaduna, ordered the military to go after the bandits and set the hostages free, even as he vowed not to pay a dime as ransom.

MILITARY VOWS TO RESCUE ABDUCTED CHILDREN

The military has since swung into action as it confirmed locating the hideouts of the bandits who, according to military sources, are now using their hostages as human shield in what the military high command described as ''a very difficult terrain.''

The Director of Defence Media Operations, Major-General Edward Buba, while briefing journalists in Abuja, said the military is committed to rescuing all kidnapped victims unhurt, even as the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, confirmed the directive given by President Tinubu to the military to go after the bandits and rescue the hostages.

INTRIGUES OVER BORNO ABDUCTION

The Borno abductions are however surrounded by intrigues and mistrust as some women, teenagers and children from an IDP camp were said to have been kidnapped after they went to the outskirts of Ngala, a town in the central part of Borno State near the Cameroon border, in search of firewood.

Sources in Borno State told THEWILL that the abduction took place about three weeks ago, but it was not immediately reported in Maiduguri, the capital, due to poor communication facility in the area.

Meanwhile, the United Nations Humanitarian Coordination office has condemned the abduction, calling on Boko Haram to free the victims.

"The United Nations strongly condemns the reported abduction of internally displaced persons (IDPs), many of them women, boys and girls in the Ngala Local Government Area of Borno State," UN Resident Humanitarian Coordinator, Mohammed Fall, said in a statement a fortnight ago..

He said the abduction occurred while the IDPs reportedly ventured beyond the safety of the trenches around Ngala town.

He said the insurgents released an unspecified number of older persons and children under 10 years. He called on the abductors to grant the IDPs unconditional release without harm.

EXAGGERATED FIGURES

Governor Zulum however faulted what he described as exaggerated figures used in the report of the abducted IDPs in Gamboru Ngala, urging those reporting the incident to be careful.

"As the Chief Security Officer of the state, I am yet to receive any official figure on the abduction in Gamborun Ngala. So we must be very careful of making unverifiable predictions.

“What you heard a few days ago in Gamboru Ngala is about recruitment. They lost their members and their numbers have depleted and they are now looking for new recruits and women.''

According to the governor, “We are yet to ascertain the correct number of the abducted victims. Some may have decided to go voluntarily. And that's what I am afraid of. If people decide to go to the bush voluntarily, you cannot do anything to stop them. That has been my fear since.

“Reliably, I was informed that some of the women were returning to the bush willingly. Even in Mafa, I went a few days ago and I saw a group of 200 women who said they wanted to go to the bush.

"They said they were in the camp and they were not getting anything. We went and calmed them. This also underscores the fact that there is hunger in the IDP camps. We therefore need your support, especially at the local government levels where we have resettled our people.

"We need to provide them with durable and sustainable livelihood. We need to move away from the immediate solutions to medium and long time durable solutions. Because, once we don't take care of the IDPs, we will be at risk of them returning to the fighters in the forest.

"We have heard situations where they were called from the bush and mocked for suffering. Even when their colleagues who surrendered asked them to come out they always asked what the government had done for them."

DISMISSING ABDUCTION NARRATIVE

THEWILL was reliably informed that no fewer than 100,000 IDPs are currently living in the ISSI camp in Ngala, which makes it the largest internally displaced displaced persons camp in the state and that nine out of the 102 IDPs reportedly abducted have since returned to their homes.

However, the Borno State Government has dismissed the abduction narrative, saying the IDPs only ''lost their way back home from the wilderness.''

HUNGER PUSHING IDPs INTO TERRORISTS' CAMPS

Recently, hundreds of residents of Mafa and Dikwa town have protested and raised serious concerns over hunger and their inability to feed their families, given the recent nationwide hike in the prices of commodities.

However, Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, said his administration cannot do more, regarding the distribution of food items to internally displaced persons and vulnerable residents threatening to join the terrorists in the forests.

Zulum stated this in Mafa while addressing a group of internally displaced persons who have protested, threatening to go to the bush where Boko Haram terrorists camped as a result of hunger.

Zulum expressed displeasure on the action by some people living in the IDP camp, saying those who intend to go back should understand that there would be no second chance. He said; ''I received a report that some IDPs in Dikwa have protested that they will return to the bush because we could not provide food to them. This afternoon, others in Mafa have also done the same.''

Zulum said In the last couple of years, he has consistently provided food to internally displaced and vulnerable people, saying "Believe me, what we are doing is even beyond our capacity.''

“In fact, we don’t even believe that they were abducted,” the Director-General, Borno State Emergency Agency, Dr Barkindo Mohammed Saidu, who led the state government fact-finding team to Ngala immediately after the reported abduction, told journalists in Maiduguri on Friday, March 8. “We believe they only lost their way back home, not abducted, because if they were abducted, the abductors would have, by now, called for ransom; but nobody has called anybody for any ransom yet.”

Speaking to THEWILL, the Borno SEMA chief said; “We have been reliably informed that nine out of the ‘missing IDPs traced their way back to the camp last Friday (penultimate),

'' adding, “Officials at Ngala have been instructed to mount an intensive and extensive vigilance to inform us about any trickling number returning.

“You would have observed that the state government restrained all along from quoting any number because we know the IDPs very well. We are the ones managing their affairs; they are economical with the truth.

“We don’t believe the IDPs in this abduction narrative and the number of those they said were abducted; the IDPs are not trustworthy.

“There is no trust between them (IDPs) and government and between them and NGOs; there is even no trust among themselves; if it is about food and other essential commodities distribution, or they want to raise public sympathy for them among the public, they exaggerate numbers. If it is about anything they don’t want, like immunisation, they reduce numbers.

“This is why we don’t even believe the abduction story and the numbers being quoted.”

PARENTS LIVE IN ANGUISH

Last year, the Acting Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, Isa Sanusi, while commenting on the fate of the remaining Chibok girls still in captivity, after nine years, said: “Parents of the 98 Chibok schoolgirls who are still being held by Boko Haram — as well as other children abducted by unknown gunmen — are living in anguish, knowing that their children are in the hands of ruthless individuals who subject their loved ones to chilling brutalities.”

Sanusi maintained that “It is beyond time that the Nigerian authorities took meaningful action to counter armed groups like Boko Haram,'' adding, ''Nigeria has an obligation to implement safeguards to protect all children and the lack of accountability for these callous crimes is fuelling impunity.'' The Amnesty chief therefore advised that ''The missing Chibok schoolgirls should be returned to their families and all those responsible for committing grave violations must face justice.”

DHQ RELEASES NEW TERROR LIST

Last Friday, the Director, Defence Media Operations, Defence Headquarters, Maj-Gen. Edward Buba, released a fresh list of 97 persons wanted for their alleged involvement in terrorist activities across the country.

Included in the list covering the North-East, North-West, North-Central and South-East, as confirmed to a leading national newspaper, is the factional leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPoB), Simon Ekpa.

THEWILL recalls that in November 2022, the military had declared about 19 bandit leaders wanted, calling on Nigerians to volunteer information that could lead to their arrest, with a N5 million bounty placed on each of them.

In the new list, the North-West led with 43 wanted persons and they include Alhaji Shingi; Malindi Yakubu; Boka; Dogo Gide; Halilu Sububu; Ado Aliero ; Bello Turji; Dan Bokkolo; Labi Yadi ; Nagala; Saidu Idris; Kachalla Rugga and Sani Gurgu.

Thirty-three persons were declared wanted from the NorthEast, which is notorious for Boko Haram and ISWAP terror activities. They include Abu Zaida; Modu Sulum; Baba Data; Ahmad; Sani Teacher; Baa Sadiq; Abdul Saad; Kaka Abi; Mohammad Khalifa; Umar Tella; Abu Mutahid; Mallam Mohammad; Mallam Tahiru Baga; Uzaiya and Ali Ngule .

Sadly, about 98 of the abducted Chibok girls remain in captivity almost 10 years after the ugly and embarrassing incident as a 2013 report by Save the Children International put the number of school children abducted since 2014 at over 1,680

From the South-East and North-Central , a total of 21 persons were declared wanted for terrorism and they include Simon Ekpa; Chika Edoziem; Egede; Zuma ; ThankGod; Gentle; Flavour ; Mathew; David Ndubuisi; High Chief Williams Agbor; Ebuka Nwaka; Friday Ojimka; Obiemesi Chukwudi, aka Dan Chuk; David Ezekwem Chidiebube and Amobi Chinonso Okafor, aka Temple.

A week earlier, the Federal Government had released a list of 15 persons and Bureau De Change operators allegedly involved in terrorism financing. The list, which has become controversial since its release and has been faulted by popular Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, is made up of Kadunabased publisher of Desert Herald and an ally of Gumi, Tukur Mamu; eight others and six BDCs and companies.

*Continues online at www. thewillnews.com

Nigeria's Public Debt Hits N97trn in December 2023 - DMO

Nigeria’s public debt stock as of December 31, 2023, stood at N97.341 trillion (108.229 billion dollars), the Debt Management Office (DMO), said on Friday, in Abuja.

The amount shows an increase of N9.43 trillion over the comparative figure for September 30, 2023,

According to the DMO, the increase was largely due to new domestic borrowing by the Federal Government to finance the deficit in the 2024 budget and disbursements by multilateral and bilateral lenders.

The total public debt comprised domestic and external debt stocks of the Federal Government, the 36 state governments and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

“At N59.12 trillion, total domestic debt accounted for 61 percent of the total public debt stock, while external debt at N38.22 trillion accounted for the balance of 39 percent", it said It said "Loans from multilateral sources constituted 49.77 percent of the country’s external debt stock, while loans from bilateral sources constituted 16.02 percent.

“That is a total of 63.79 percent, mostly concessional and semi-concessional loans.

“Whilst the DMO continues to employ best practices in public debt management, the recent and ongoing efforts of the authorities to shore up revenue will support debt sustainability."

Keyamo Suspends

Public-Funded Foreign Trips By Officials, Agencies

In compliance with President Bola Tinubu’s directive to suspend public-funded foreign trips by ministers and government officials, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has directed all agencies and officers under the Ministry to suspend all approved foreign trips, with effect from March 21, 2024.

This was contained in a letter dated March 21, 2024, and signed by Dr Emmauel C. Meribole, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Aviation, for the Honourable Minister.

The statement reads: “I am directed to inform you to suspend all foreign trips approved by the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development for all Officers in the Ministry and Agencies under Aviation with effect from 21st March 2024. This is in furtherance of a Presidential directive to suspend public-funded trips by government officials at all levels.

"Any Officer who intends to go on any public funded international trip must seek and obtain Presidential approval at least 2 weeks prior to embarking on such trips, which must be deemed absolutely necessary.

“All previously given approvals by the Honourable Minister are hereby put on hold from today, 21st March 2024. Please, direct all your DFAs not to process any flight tickets and estacodes for now. Please, this is for strict compliance.”

United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has said access to clean water for all would foster peace and development in the region ravaged by prolonged armed conflict.

UNICEF Chief of Borno Field Office, Phuong T. Nguyen disclosed this during the 2024 commemoration of the World Water Day with the theme," Water For Peace" held in Maiduguri on Friday.

UNICEF Chief lamented that access to clean water and sanitation remains a big challenge to millions of children and communities in the northeast region.

"Let us reaffirm our commitment to building a future where every child has access to clean water, every community thrives in harmony, and peace reigns supreme.

"Together, let us unleash the full potential of water as a force for good, driving sustainable development and fostering a culture of peace that will endure for generations to come." She said.

She lamented that in the northeast access to clean water has been a challenge for many communities, exacerbating their already difficult circumstances due to vandalisation and theft has reduced the capacity to maximise returns of WASH investments. Phuong said, "Access to safe water is still a mirage for millions of children, households and communities in northeast Nigeria. Access to safe water and sanitation remains a significant challenge.

"There is a need to prevent the vandalisation and theft of Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), infrastructure in camps and communities", she lamented.

NEWS

My Administration Will Support All Nigerians – Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has said that his administration will support all Nigerians, irrespective of their party, religious and ethnic affiliations.

Tinubu also said that his government would ensure that Nigeria and Nigerians are better off in the next couple of days through his administration's various programmes and policies.

The President gave the assurance through the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, who paid a courtesy visit to the Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, on Friday.

He further assured of his readiness to strengthen the presence of the Federal Government in the state. He said the government is redoubling its efforts to fulfil his campaign promises and make life better for all Nigerians.

"As Minister and my team, we are tasked by the President to explain the efforts of the government and what we are doing to tackle the economic reforms and to assure that the reforms are temporary and the difficulties will soon go away and Nigerians will enjoy it", he said.

Earlier, Governor Yusuf commended President Tinubu for answering the calls to reopen the nation's borders which he said would ease the people's suffering.

He also hailed the Minister for his efforts at amplifying the policies and programmes of the Federal Government, assuring that the state is committed to supporting the Federal Government in tackling insecurity through technology.

The governor said Kano was peaceful, though they had tried to tackle the menace of bandits and kidnappers in about ten Local Government Areas of the State. He said the state government would continue to be on the same page with the Federal Government in the efforts to move Nigeria to greater heights.

Niger Republic Opens Konni Land Border With Nigeria

Niger Republic has opened its border with Nigeria in Konni for operations.

In compliance with the sanctions imposed on the Niger Republic by ECOWAS, following a coup that toppled Mohamed Bazoum, in July 2023, Nigeria had in August 2023, closed its land and air borders with Niger. However, President Bola Tinubu, on March 13, 2024, directed the opening of Nigeria's land and air borders with Niger and the lifting of other sanctions. In compliance with the directive, the Controller, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Kebbi State command, Iheanacho Ojike, re-opened the Kamba land border with the Niger Republic. Last week, the NCS also opened the Illela land border. This is just as the Federal Government restored the supply of electricity to the Republic of Niger last Wednesday.

Think of New Ways to Tackle Insecurity, Revive Economy, Olubambi Tells Tinubu

The Chief Executive Officer and President of Vision International Christian Ministries, Rev Francis Olubambi has called on President Bola Tinubu to think of new way to tackle the problem of insecurity, bad economy and other problems confronting the country.

Olubambi who was speaking at the "Transformational Leadership Conference 2024 with the theme, Innovative Leadership", organised by the Vision International Christian Ministries in Lagos on Thursday said leaders in organisations and governments need to strategise and plan ahead of time.

He said it is true that Nigeria is facing economic and insecurity problems, but these problems can be tackled in a new way

"We are facing a lot of problems in the country, but the political leaders can do something better.

"The government needs to think on how best these problems can be handled. It calls for strategic planning, calls for innovative leadership, calls for doing things in a new way to really meet the needs of the people. Any economy that will grow needs planning. It requires people coming together brainstorming on the best way to pilot it", Olubambi said. Speaking on the reason for organizing Transformational Leadership Conference, Olubambi said things keep changing from day to day and anybody who want to progress cannot remain static, saying "We cannot use old method, yesterday's method, we need to be innovative and think of new ways of doing things.

"The whole goal of the conference is to help people to strategise, help people to plan, help people to understand what it will take for them to really win. We are all in the game of winning.

"As leaders, we don't want to be obsolete. We don't want to be yesterday's leaders. We want to show that we are still alive , we are not dead as leaders. That is why we bring people together, to energise them, encourage them and empower them, so that they can be current leaders.

Also, while speaking on innovative leadership at the conference, the General Overseer of Foursquare Gospel Church in Nigeria, Rev. Dr. Sam Aboyeji said the solution to the problem of coping with changes is innovative leadership.

"We need innovative leaders much more than before because our world is grappling with more complex problems now than ever before, thus compelling the need for different approach to solving them.

"Leading in this season calls for innovation and not tradition. The success of any leader at this moment will depend on how well he/she can adapt to change. If our leadership will dominate an industry, change the face of our community or city, hel our nation solve its myriad of problems and meet the needs of thousands of hurting people, them it must influence and inspire the followers to embrace innovation and not tradition", Rev Aboyeji said.

POLITICS

El-Rufai: Testing The Waters

After his political trajectory suffered a setback with the disappointing end of his ministerial nomination in August last year, immediate past governor of Kaduna State, one-time Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and prominent founding member of the governing All Progressives Congress, APC, Nasir el-Rufai proceeded on an academic journey abroad.

Shocked by the way the Senate failed to clear his ministerial nomination, he took to his X platform and wailed about betrayal by enemies posing as friends as portrayed in a popular hit song ‘Who the Cap Fits’ by late Reggae maestro, Bob Marley.

But like the politician that he is, staying in circulation and hitting the headlines in a big way to generate reactions that set tongues wagging.

Recall that a leading national newspaper recently reported that party stalwarts from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and the governing All Progressives Party, APC, were about to form a mega party to contest the 2027 General Election.

According to the report, at meetings held offshore in “a North African country” and other meetings within Nigeria, the ‘mega-party’ planners led by a former northern governor as the arrowhead of the new quest, “aim, according to them, to prop up a former governor from the north widely known for his radical views and disposition on national issues as presidential hopeful against President Bola Tinubu and his deputy, Kashim Shettima, in case they decide to seek a second term in office in 2027.”

So, when El-Rufai paid a visit to the national headquarters of the Social Democratic Party, SDP, in Abuja on Thursday, there were allegations that he sought to recruit the party into a mega platform.

According to sources close to the SDP headquarters, ElRufai allegedly plans to lead an emerging mega platform that would wrest power from President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

In a video recording of the meeting, El-Rufai was heard saying "you can post it, I don't care," when someone was cautioned against sharing the video on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).

THEWILL gathered that the SDP visit rattled the national leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who consider it an anti-party activity.

Concerned APC Leaders in the North are, however, worried that El-Rufai's visit and pronouncements during the meeting at the SDP headquarters constitute anti-party activity for which he ought to be severely punished.

They have, therefore, called on the national chairman of the party, Alhaji Umar Ganduje, to immediately convene a meeting of the National leadership of the APC to decide ElRufai's fate before it is too late.

Speaking in a statement in Abuja, Dr Faruk Ahmed, Chairman of Asiwaju Support Group (North), said El-Rufai's visit to SDP is an open confirmation of the rumour that he was working clandestinely against APC and President Tinubu.

According to him, APC must rise and take decisive action on El-Rufai so that he does not spread a virus that will tear the party apart like he did against the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) under Goodluck Jonathan.

"We have seen the report of his visit to SDP and through our intelligence network also established his mission.

"We understand that he is forming a mega party and is recruiting other small political parties to join him. But we

won't allow that to happen. That is why we are calling on our National Chairman to immediately call a meeting of the national leadership of the APC to take decisive action on him before he destroys our party.

"You will recall that this was how he started immediately Jonathan refused to pick him as his vice president and chose Governor Namadi Sambo instead.

"If you still remember what happened, he had visited Jonathan and lobbied to be his vice president. After that, he started saying good things about Jonathan and praising him. When Namadi Sambo emerged as the Vice President, he turned against Jonathan and started to

“

Now, we see him doing exactly the same because President Tinubu did not make him a minister. APC must step in and take proper action so that what happened before does not repeat itself

undermine him and he eventually joined APC.

"Now, we see him doing exactly the same because President Tinubu did not make him a minister. APC must step in and take proper action so that what happened before does not repeat itself.

"You heard him in the video, say, “I don't care." That means he knows what he is up to and the consequences. It is that consequence that we now want the APC leadership to act on," Dr. Ahmed said.

Meanwhile, El-Rufai's spokesman, Muyiwa Adekeye, has denied any plans by his principal to defect from the APC or work against the party in 2027, saying insinuations towards that are effects of "obsession with politics".

He said El-Rufai only returned the Iftar visit by the SDP National Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam, adding that there was nothing political in the meeting.

"I consider the most recent speculations about Malam Nasir El-Rufai as reflecting an unhealthy obsession with politics.

"People have personal histories and relationships that predate political affiliations. It cannot be a hallmark of civilisation to have friends from within only your political party. When people visit each other or mingle across party lines, it is because human relationships exist, distinct from the political or the partisan," Adekeye said.

But Ibrahim Modibbo, a former member of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Presidential Legacy Group thinks otherwise.

He said, “It’s not surprising that El-Rufai will visit the SDP National Secretariat for consultation about the future of his political career. In terms of infrastructural development, El-Rufai has performed well and he’s one of the bestperforming governors during the last administration. ElRufai is somebody like Nyesom Wike.

“Since he left office, the APC has not considered him for anything and this is a man in search of relevance. He is a performer.”

That search for relevance also took him to the South-West recently. Specifically, on December 15, 2023, El-Rufai had stirred the hornet’s nest when he announced with glee on his X handle his installation as Gbobanyi of Ijebuland by His Royal Highness, Oba Sikiru Adetona. A media statement by one his admirers and immediate past Director-General of the Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dr Bashir Jamoh, sums up the public reaction to the import of the installation.

Jamoh said, “The fact that His Excellency @El-Rufai is the first person outside the South-West to be conferred with a chieftaincy title by the traditional ruler speaks volumes about the person and character of the two- time former Governor of Kaduna State. This title also brings to the fore El-Rufai’s detribalised disposition towards everyone and his acceptability across the nooks and crannies of the federation.”

Having left his footprint in the sands of time in the Federal Capital Territory as Minister and Kaduna State as Governor, Dr Jamoh assured the people of Ijebu land in particular and the South-West by extension that they will benefit from el Rufai’s wealth of experience in leadership.

POLITICS

Endless Drama in Edo PDP

Wracked by post-party primary blues, the Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, is heading into electioneering in April almost a divided house.

The days between March 19 and April 15, 2024 hold the key to the party’s fate in the September 21, 2024 governorship poll in the state as intra-party issues of law and politics will have to be resolved amicably. Those days are a long time for Governor Godwin Obaseki and his Deputy, Philip Shaibu to settle their differences with the emergence of a winner.

That testy period arose from two fronts, both dealing with the party primary, which Asue Ighodalo won and had been crowned the party’s governorship candidate.

On the one hand is the Tuesday, March 19, refusal of Justice James Omotosho of a Federal High Court in Abuja to grant an ex-parte motion filed by Shaibu, seeking an interim order to stop the impeachment process by the Edo State House of Assembly.

On Wednesday, however, Justice Omotosho heard another motion ex-parte brought by the plaintiff seeking substituted service on the defendants due to his inability to serve them. And then fixed the hearing for April 15.

On that same day, the Edo State House of Assembly directed the state Chief Judge, Daniel Okungbowa, to set up a sevenman probe panel to investigate allegations against Shaibu.

As of press time on Friday, THEWILL learnt that Shaibu and his camp are struggling to serve the defendants the substituted service. While that process is going on, the party’s governorship candidate has a suit against him fixed for hearing on April 30, before Justice Inyang Ekwo at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

The suits are two, both challenging the PDP’s primary election that produced Ighodalo as the party’s candidate. One of the suits is by Adizetu Umoru in suit No FHC/ ABJ/CS/195/2024 and another marked FHC/ABJ/ CS/196/2024 filed by Moses Alabi and Christopher Oboarer.

The three suits, which have the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC; PDP Acting National Chairman, Umar Damagun, PDP National Working Committee, NWC and National Executive Council, NEC, as defendants, seek an interim order of the court to restrain the defendants from using the list of ward congresses held on February 4, 2024 for the purpose of conducting the February 22, 2024 primary or any other one lending the hearing and determination of the main suit.

Counsels to the defendants, namely I. S Mohammed for INEC; Adeyemi Ajibade, SAN, for Damagun; Kehinde Ofunwumiju, SAN and Robert Emukpoeruo for PDP NWC and NEC urged the court to dismiss the suit as a notice of preliminary objection has been filed by INEC, the judge fixed May 2, 2024 for ruling on motion seeking for a change of counsel for the 4th defendant.

Efforts to get reactions from both the local and national leaders of the party and the deputy governor failed as calls were unanswered and messages not returned.

Investigation however shows the court cases have thrown a spanner in the works for the PDP ahead of electioneering. For one, the pending suit against impeachment proceedings would likely prevent the Chief Judge from going ahead with the directive of the House of Assembly to constitute a sevenman probe panel for allegations against Shaibu.

Although examples abound in the past where the impeachment procedures had gone ahead in seeming content of court injunctions, recent developments in

jurisprudence, following a directive from the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kayode Ariwoola, has put judges on the alert.

The past example is presented by Kogi State, whereby on October 17, 2019 Deputy Governor Simon Achuba was impeached in a process which the High Court in Lokoja on February 27, 2020, found to be illegal and contrary to section 188, sub section 8 of the Constitution, which stopped the House of Assembly from further action having discovered that Achuba was not found wanting by the panel.

Even so, the deputy governor was neither reinstated nor paid the compensation he sought. Edward Onoja, his replacement, remained in office until the governorship

“What this means is that until the case is heard and disposed of, the legal stalemate in Edo State over the PDP primary, the undercurrent of the crisis, will continue to plague the party

poll on November 11, 2023. The recent example involves Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who as Deputy Governor was stopped from being impeached by A Federal High Court in Abuja. The court on September 26, 2023 restrained the Ondo State House of Assembly from impeaching Aiyedatiwa over an alleged gross misconduct. Justice Emeka Nwite, made the ruling shortly after Aiyedatiwa's counsel, Kayode Adewusi, moved the ex-parte motion.

Explaining the developments, a constitutional lawyer, Mr Napoleon Ene told THEWILL that after the court has ordered that a substituted service on the defendants in Edo State, the High Court Judge would likely not constitute the seven-man probe panel because “after service, the suit will be brought back to court and put on motion; the defendants were served in the interest of fair hearing. The constitution of the probe panel will have to wait till the day the motion is heard.”

Nonetheless, the Chief Judge Justice Okungbowa, on Friday went ahead to heed the directive of the Assembly and constituted a seven-man probe panel.

The panel was constituted on Friday via a statement, with reference number: CR/4837 /Vol. I/131, endorsed by the Chief Registrar of the Edo State High Court, B. O. Osawaru.

The panel is headed by a retired justice, Justice S.A. Omonua with the following members; Professor Violet Aigbokhaebo, Professor Boniface Onomion Edegbai, Professor Theresa Akpoghome Oghogho Ayodele Oviasu, Andrew Oliha and Idris Abdulkareen.

At any rate, there is a general thinking in the PDP camp in Edo State that with or without Shaibu the party is going ahead with its campaign and like all politicians do, will retain Osadebe Government House come September 21, 2024.

Party stakeholders say they have fulfilled all political righteousness regarding fairness and equity as required in a representative democracy. To meet the March 24 deadline for the online submission of names of candidates as directed by INEC, the party has concluded its choice of Asue Ighodalo as its governorship candidate and former Secretary to Government, Bar Osarodion Ogie as its deputy. Considering that the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Hon. Blessing Agbebaku hails from Edo North, Ighodalo hails from Edo Central and Ogie from Edo South, dependable party sources say the power sharing formula has been met and the party is in a strong position to kick-start the April 24 campaign across 192 wards across the state

LP Petitions SGF, AGF, Registrar of Trade Unions Over Conflict With NLC

Following Wednesday’s invasion of its secretariats, the leadership of the Labour Party has formally petitioned government institutions requesting that an urgent intervention be taken to protect the party against further aggression from the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC.

In four letters written separately to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume; Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN; Ministry of Labour and Employment and the Registrar of Trade Unions, Falonipe Amos, the party called for disciplinary action to be taken against the NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero and other union leaders who spearheaded the alleged vandalisation of its property.

In the petition, the party demanded that sanctions be meted out to Ajaero and other union leaders for intimidating their members and destroying their property.

According to the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Obiora Ifo, the NLC leaders have no right whatsoever to do what they did, adding that the NLC is not the owner of the party.

According to Ifo, the Federal Government, being the regulatory agency of trade unions, should define the role of the NLC, particularly on its alleged claim of owning the LP for which it has continually harassed and interfered in the party’s activities.

He said, among others, “The action of the NLC is a clear violation of the 1999 Constitution, the Electoral Act, the Trade Union Act, and any other relevant laws. NLC members are not card carrying members of the Labour Party. The Labour Party cannot be owned by any association. The Labour Party’s constitution says the party is open to all Nigerians who accept its ideology, programmes and the constitution, irrespective of their religion, ethnic, gender, social and economic status. “

This is coming on the heels of the lamentation by LP’s National Chairman, Barrister Julius Abure, that the party lost property worth millions of naira and some staff salaries to the picketing of its offices by the NLC.

The ongoing conflict between the NLC and the leadership of the LP worsened on Wednesday when members carried out their promise to picket the party’s secretariats across the country. The move was to press home their demand for Abure’s resignation.

Obasanjo Praises Otti For Repealing Ex-Gov/ Deputies Pension Law

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Friday commended Governor Alex Otti of Abia State and the Abia State House of Assembly, for their courage to abolish the law that had entitled former governors of the state and their deputies to enjoy life pension.

Obasanjo made the commendation when he paid a courtesy visit to Governor Otti in Abia, on his way to Item where his former Special Assistant on Privatisation, Bishop Sunday Onuoha, was celebrating his 61st birthday.

Describing the abolished Pension law as “rascality”, Obasanjo expressed the hope that other state governors would follow Otti's footsteps.

Obasanjo noted that pensions to former governors and deputies were outrageous while those of ordinary retired workers were owed in Abia since 2014, describing the act as daylight robbery.

The former President said, “I watched the television and I saw : repealing Abia pensions and I asked you what exactly is this and you said to me that the pensions scheme for former Governors here was too outrageous. It’s like trouble because it allowed them to have a house in Abuja and elsewhere,and it allowed them to cart away whatever they can, yet the pensions of ordinary people have been unpaid since 2014.

“What sort of leadership! You came and said there will be an end to that rascality. I congratulate you and I say to you, I hope that your colleagues will follow your footsteps.

“I say congratulation. Congratulation for your tenacity, congratulation for not giving up, congratulation for weathering the storm and congratulation for what you did yesterday (signing the repealing of pension law for former Governors and Deputy Governors).

“This morning, I came in and I met you exercising, a sound mind and a sound body and I say to you, now I know your secret. I was glad when you said you do that every other day. It’s just like me playing squash on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, I think a leader must keep himself or herself in a healthy condition.

“There is still a lot of work to be done, I said to you. You have started, but you should never be tired. Don’t be discouraged.

NLC: Abure No Longer LP Chairman

Against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict between the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, and the Labour Party, the union has said that Julius Abure was no longer the National Chairman of the Party.

The position of the labour union was made known by the NLC Political Commission in a statement issued on Friday.

According to it’s Secretary, Comrade Chris Uyot, “Following this week’s successful take-over of Labour Party Secretariats nationwide by the Nigeria Labour Congress who are the real owners of the party, Mr. Julius Abure’s silhouette continues to hide from the long arms of the law over various allegations and charges bordering on criminality.

He said it is unfortunate that instead of courageously coming out to the open to defend himself against several fingers pointing in his direction, Mr. Abure has adopted the cowardly posture of crouching in the undergrowth of shame, lies, treachery and infamy to lay fictitious claims against a dignified, focused and honourable institution like the Nigeria Labour Congress.

“First is to make the point clear that Mr. Julius Abure has since ceased from being the Chairman of the Labour Party. Second, his latest missive that the successful takeover of the Labour Party Secretariat by workers who are the party’s rightful owners resulted in the theft of staff salaries is sarcastic and pathetic. It is unfortunate that Mr Abure has surrendered himself to the laboratory of public opprobrium on how the mind of an incorrigible liar, visionless usurper, timid traitor, and serial scammer works

“During the nationwide peaceful reclaim of Labour Party’s Secretariats, not even one canister of tear gas was fired as the picketing was conducted in tandem with the NLC’s philosophy and disposition to peaceful protests. For Abure to concoct such daylight falsehood clearly proves to all Nigerians that he carries moral leprosy and must be avoided at all costs. The inconsistency in Abure’s account – from allegations of missing billions now to the theft of workers’ salaries and destruction of valuables – clearly confirms our earlier assessment of him as a drowning political wannabe.

“After being rejected by all stakeholders in the Labour Party, we urge Mr. Julius Abure to show his face in public. He should not hide underground and be vomiting gibberish. The few insignificant scoundrels still hanging on to Abure’s tattered pockets of ill-gotten coins, including irresponsible grandfathers who have committed class suicide and show no visible means of livelihood, and who now appear on television to lie on Labour Party ownership must remember that history’s judgement on traitors is very dire.

SHOTS OF THE WEEK

Photo Editor: Peace Udugba [08033050729]

However, if charity must really begin at home on his latest admonition, he must ensure that all Federal Government officials and National Assembly members use locallyassembled vehicles instead of their preference for expensive imported luxury vehicles

Reducing High Cost of Governance

President Bola Tinubu surely has something good that cannot be taken away from him. His sensitivity to the yearnings of the people and his willingness to do the right thing in response to what his people want really stands him out as a leader that can be trusted.

The recent order banning ministers, heads of agencies and other government officials from embarking on public funded foreign trips for the next three months is highly commendable as it is a way to reduce the increasingly high cost of governance in the country.

The three-month ban, in the first instance, which takes effect on April 1, is coming on the heels of President Tinubu's decision to implement the Oronsanye Report on the merger and reduction of government Ministries, Departments and Agencies, with a committee already inaugurated to work on the implementation.

A letter dated March 12, 2024 and signed by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; and addressed to the Secretary to the Government

of the Federation, George Akume, had conveyed the instruction of the President.

“Considering the current economic challenges and the need for responsible fiscal management, I am writing to communicate Mr Presideni’s directive to place a temporary ban on all public funded international trips for all Federal Government officials at all levels, for an initial period of three months from April 1, 2024.

“This temporary measure is aimed at cost reduction in governance and intended as a cost-saving measure without compromising government functions.

“All government officials who intend to go on any public funded international trips must seek and obtain Presidential approval at least two weeks prior to embarking on any such trip, which must be deemed absolutely necessary,” the letter stated.

The President had earlier In January given an order for the reduction of the entourage accompanying him on both local and foreign trips, as he instructed that his entourage

should not exceed 25 members for local travels and 20 for international trips.

He also mandated security operatives at his destination to handle his protection instead of being accompanied by many security personnel from Abuja.

It is worthy to note that the three-month ban on publicfunded trips for the next three months has also been passed down to the staff of the aviation ministry as the Minister for Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has directed all agencies and officers under the Ministry to suspend all approved foreign trips with effect from March 21, 2024.

President Tinubu's recent call on Nigerians to patronise made-inNigeria goods to shore up the value of the Naira is also worthy of commendation.

However, if charity must really begin at home on his latest admonition, he must ensure that all Federal Government officials and National Assembly members use locally-assembled vehicles instead of their preference for expensive imported luxury vehicles.

OPINION

Senate Budget Padding Scandal: Tinubu/Akpabio Bungled it by

Yes, the Senate may have suspended Senator Abdul Ningi, but the issues he raised concerning the N3.7 trillion, not specifically attached to any project in any location, are not going away any time soon.

Senator Abdul Ningi, the Chairperson of the Northern Senators Forum (NSF), recently told BBC Hausa that the lawmakers sought the service of a private auditor and discovered irregularities in the budget. He reportedly said, “For example, we had a budget of N28 trillion, but after our thorough checks, we found out that it was a budget of N25 trillion. How and where did we get the additional N3 trillion from, what are we spending it for?’

IT IS OUTRIGHT HEARTLESS THAT OUR SENATORS COULD HANG N3.7 TRILLION FOR THEMSELVES IN WHAT THEY WITTINGLY CALLED ZONAL INTERVENTION IN A BUDGET THAT IS RUNNING A DEFICIT FINANCED BY EXTERNAL BORROWING

Ningi had, in the interview, alleged that the budget passed by the National Assembly for the 2024 fiscal year is N25 trillion, while the one being implemented by the Presidency is N28.7 trillion.

He was quoted as saying: “For the first time in Nigerian history, today we are operating two different budgets. One budget was approved by the National Assembly and signed by President Bola Tinubu and the one was implemented by the presidency.

“The one approved by us is N25tn while the one operated by the Federal Government is N28.7tn.”

Without inside information, corruption is hard to detect, prevent and combat. Rather than suspending Senator Ningi, the Senate ought to have used his allegations as a trigger for addressing the lingering problem of budget padding and corruption in the implementation of constituency projects or rather “zonal intervention vote”.

So far nobody in the Senate has denied that the N3.7 trillion is not pinned down to any specific project in the 2024 budget. Nobody can even deny that because it has been established. Even BudgiT, the Civil Society Organisation (CSO), specialising in national budget analysis, has backed the position that the said amount of money isn’t traceable to any project in the budget.

Why is the Senate not proving Ningi to be the liar by coming out clean to give a detailed explanation of why the N3.7 trillion is hanging? Why is the Senate excommunicating Ningi; to shut him up instead of

coming clean on the alleged budget padding and hanging costs?

Rightly as said in a media interview by Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, the national coordinator, Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), it is increasingly becoming clearer that what happened was that the senators allocated a huge sum to themselves. Some of the senators got N200 million; some got N500 million; and the leadership got theirs in billions of Naira. As we have seen so far, most of the senators have been coming to the media to explain this. So nobody is going to deny anything again.

The senators, unwittingly shot themselves in the leg, by suspending the person who exposed the rot in the Senate when they should have handled it better in a way such a thing has been handled before. But unfortunately for them, they kicked out the man and the whole thing is now out in the open.

In fact, almost all the senators have been coming out with revelations of what they got and why they got what they got. How do you explain that? And Nigerians were not aware of all these, not until the senator from Bauchi State opened the cankerworm.

What is the justification under the law or any convention for the senators to allocate certain sums of money to themselves in the name of Zonal Intervention? They are not parts of the budget. Had it been they were parts of it, there wouldn’t have been one N3.7 trillion that will be hanging, which they are now beginning to explain to us.

But come to think of it, have you ever heard of the zonal intervention project or vote, as they call it? What we have always known is the constituency project, which itself has been very disputable. This is because the job of a senator is not to award contracts. He is a lawmaker and not a contract-awarding executive. So it is an aberration constitutionally. But this time, the senators call it zonal intervention. Whatever they meant by that it’s only known to them.

It is outright heartless that our senators could hang N3.7 trillion for themselves in what they wittingly called zonal intervention in a budget that is running a deficit financed by external borrowing. Sad indeed!

Whether the lawmakers accept this or not, a majority, if not even all Nigerians, believe Ningi and see his suspension as a ploy to suppress the truth of the matter.

In all, Tinubu is going to be the biggest loser in what’s happening at the Senate, which definitely is going to trickle into the House of Reps.

As already made clear to the leadership of the Senate by SERAP, Senator Ningi is a whistleblower because of his public interest disclosures on alleged budget padding and corruption in the Senate in the context of carrying out his work as Senate. He is protected under Article 33 of the “UN Convention against Corruption” to which Nigeria is a signatory and a state party. His action amounted to pure public interest disclosures that can contribute to strengthening transparency and democratic accountability in the Senate in particular and the country as a whole.

*Continues

Nigeria’s Forgotten And Fallen: Power, Politics And Fame

In Nigeria’s complex socio-political landscape, there exists a phenomenon often overshadowed by the glitz and glamour of political power and fame—the plight of the forgotten men.

These individuals, once wielders of influence and authority, find themselves relegated to the sidelines of society’s collective memory once their time in the spotlight fades. This essay explores the fallacy of power, politics, and fame in Nigeria, emphasizing the transient nature of these constructs and the tendency of Nigerian politicians to fade into obscurity once they lose their grip on power. Power, in its various manifestations, is often perceived as the ultimate prize in Nigeria’s political arena.

Let me explain briefly and with a smile…I say if you don’t know you can know. In Nigeria, a governor is entitled to some mysterious humongous amount of money called security votes, sadly in most states no one is secure.

That same governor amongst the humble ones are those that are privileged to have at least 20 advisors, some have been known to have as much as 500 advisors with designation ranging from Special Advisers to Senior Special Advisers, this is for offices that have commissioners already, and in cases also personal assistants and advisers.

I have excluded the retinue of security aparachik, the Nigerian politician while in office does not do any work, and pays literally for nothing. I am not discussing the cost of governance but the opulence of governance.

Politicians invest significant resources and effort into acquiring and maintaining power, viewing it as a means to attain wealth, prestige, and influence. However, the reality is that power is ephemeral, subject to the whims of electoral cycles, shifting political alliances, and the unpredictable tides of public opinion.

Nigerian history is replete with examples of once-powerful politicians who have fallen from grace, their names consigned to the annals of history as mere footnotes in the country’s political narrative. I will come back to this before I drop my pen!

Politics, too, is characterized by its transient nature in Nigeria. The pursuit of political office is often driven by personal ambition rather than a genuine desire to serve the public good. Nigerian politicians engage in cutthroat tactics to ascend the political ladder, forming alliances of convenience and betraying erstwhile allies to achieve their goals.

The AD-PDP-ANPP-CPC-AA-APC phenomenon where a politician has belonged to all these political parties in barely two decades of power.

However, once in power, many politicians prioritize self-interest over the welfare of the people, using their positions to amass wealth and consolidate their grip on power. Consequently, when their tenure ends, they are swiftly cast aside by the electorate, their promises forgotten and their legacies tarnished

by allegations of corruption and malfeasance.

Similarly, fame in Nigeria’s political arena is fleeting. Politicians bask in the adulation of the masses during their time in office, enjoying the trappings of power and the privileges afforded to them by their positions.

THE PURSUIT OF POLITICAL OFFICE IS OFTEN DRIVEN BY PERSONAL AMBITION RATHER THAN A GENUINE DESIRE TO SERVE THE PUBLIC GOOD. NIGERIAN POLITICIANS ENGAGE IN CUTTHROAT TACTICS TO ASCEND THE POLITICAL LADDER, FORMING ALLIANCES OF CONVENIENCE AND BETRAYING ERSTWHILE ALLIES TO ACHIEVE THEIR GOALS

However, once their tenure ends, they find themselves relegated to the margins of society, their once-glittering reputations tarnished by scandals and controversies. The Nigerian public, ever fickle in its affections, quickly moves on to the next political sensation, consigning yesterday’s heroes to the dustbin of history.

So, do we remember that governor that fought with his deputy, finally impeaching him for owning a poultry, I mean it, for owning a poultry. How about that governor that became a governor because the owner of the seat went on to become a Vice President that has been trying every electoral circle to get the big prize. The last I heard of him, he was the leader of the Association of Former PDP Ex-Governors.

There is another one I know, in fact a woman, and trust me in Nigeria forget all that noise of gender equality, I tell you, our women have not done badly, I know that was a councillor in the 70s, Commissioner in the 80s, Minister in the 90s, 20s, and even doubled as a deputy governor, and was still a minister a year ago. I don’t recall where she is now.

There is one, a big masquerade, he was all over the place, he always gifted you a statue of yourself if he was pleased with you, his home-state has been unfortunate in governance, from a palm wine tapper to the current one lovingly called in the past, the Supreme Court Governor.

Govt Reiterates Intention to Boost Power Supply to 6,500MW in Six Months

National Economic Council Approves $617.7m i-DICE Programme Nationwide

The unending repairs of Port Harcourt Refinery is set to enter the second quarter of 2024 after missing the December 2023 target.

The Federal Government had, through the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), emphatically assured that the facility would resume production in December.

The “commitment” was extracted from the government after organised labour had embarked on a nationwide strike over the hardship resulting from the removal of the subsidy on petrol. It also accused the President Bola Tinubu-led government of pushing the refinery repairs to the back burner.

The four local refineries in Nigeria, including the two in Port Harcourt, had stopped operations in 2019, yielding the country to full importation of its petroleum requirements.

This has drained the nation’s resources extensively as it spent the bulk of its oil revenue on “subsidy” while it also suffered huge losses from massive oil theft which the NNPC put at $10 billion in 2022 alone.

As a result, the NNPCL made zero remittance to the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) in 2022 arising from the challenges of oil theft and payment of “under-recovery,” a euphemism for subsidy.

In a dramatic change of events, the Federal Government in December confirmed the “commencement of operations” at the Port Harcourt Refinery.

It announced that the facility commenced operations on December 20, 2023, as the first phase of work at the plant had been completed, adding that refined petroleum products would start flowing from the refinery after the

Continues on page 33

Africapitalism: Tony Elumelu Foundation Splashes Young African Entrepreneurs With $5.52m

At a time most African countries are sinking deep into the miry clay of poverty, the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), the leading philanthropy empowering the continent’s entrepreneurs, on Friday, March 22, 2024 unveiled 1,104 beneficiaries of its flagship Entrepreneurship Programme for the year.

Each of the 1.104 beneficiaries, will receive a non-refundable $5,000 seed fund to execute their chosen projects endorsed by the Foundation. The amount translates to a total of $5,520,000 to be received by the beneficiaries who cut across the 54 countries of Africa.

Stakeholders agree that the TEF’s focus on fighting poverty in the continent stands out as one with little or no rival. This is because of its Afrocentric dimension, and drive by the stakeholders to allow no slag in the implementation of the scheme. This has helped the scheme in maintaining its success tempo to the admiration of those that come in touch with it.

At the head office of Africa’s Global Bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA) where the colourful event took place, participants, guests and the media from across the continent witnessed the hopebuilding atmosphere that dominated the event streamed live for about one hour.

The founder of TEF, Tony Elumelu, who is also chairman of UBA, said in his keynote address that he is proud of what the foundation has accomplished in 10 years since its inception.

“These 1,104 young men and women from 54 African countries

will each receive a non-refundable $5,000 seed capital,” he said.

The importance of the scheme resonated in the voice of Elumelu:

“We believe in democratising luck, we believe in spreading prosperity and we think that the easiest way to spread prosperity in Africa is by identifying our young ones, encouraging them and helping them to start their own businesses. This is why we have done this.”

“Till date, over 20,000 young men and women from across Africa have received over $100 million in support of their programme. We are happy to see our young ones progressing. We are happy that what we started alone as Tony Elumelu Foundation will have been able to identify and partner with other global institutions.

“So, today is a day of impact, a day of gratitude, and most importantly, a day of reflection for me because God has been kind in so many ways. My family and I do what we do, not from the abundance of wealth, but just a realisation that poverty anywhere is a threat to us everywhere, and that we cannot live alone in prosperity.

“I’m happy that today, we continue to spread that prosperity- not just in Nigeria, not just in our family, but in all 54 African countries. I am indeed happy that in our lifetime, we are able to impact the next generation.”

Elumelu, whose birthday coincided with the event, said, “For my family and I, we thought there is no better way of celebrating

BUSINESS WEEKLY

...Tony Elumelu Foundation Splashes Young African Entrepreneurs With $5.52m

I’m happy that today, we continue to spread that prosperity- not just in Nigeria, not just in our family, but in all 54 African countries

my birthday than announcing the selection of the 2024 Tony Elumelu Foundation entrepreneurship Programme beneficiaries.”

This year’s edition reinforced the philosophy of Africapitalism which is at the heart of the TEF. According to the Foundation, Africapitalism is the economic philosophy developed by Tony Elumelu, the Founder, and it is predicated on the belief that Africa’s private sector can and must play a leading role in the continent’s development.

“Africapitalism means we cannot leave the business of development up to our governments, donor countries, and philanthropic organizations alone. The private sector must be involved in the business of development."

Testimonies shared at the event confirm that the scheme is a success and making the desired impact. Speaking about the previous beneficiaries of the foundation programme, Elumelu said that TEF tracks how the beneficiaries are succeeding and how they are impacting humanity, society, and their communities. He disclosed that they have generated over $1.2 billion in revenue in their businesses.

“All have not succeeded, but we did tell ourselves from the onset- it is not about 100 per cent success, but even if 40, 50 per cent of our beneficiaries succeed, let’s through them help to eradicate poverty, but more importantly, show others, because we are trying to crowd in others into this space of entrepreneurship, we’re trying to encourage other successful Africans and global institutions and citizens that in the 21st century, there is a better way to develop Africa than just aid.”

The Co-Founder of TEF, De Awele Elumelu, also giving an address at the event, congratulated the members of the 10th Cohort.

She said, “To today’s 10th cohorts, I want to say as you embark on the next phase of your journey, know that you’re a part of a network of entrepreneurs, a big network of entrepreneurs and I want to say that you have all our support here- all of us here, we’re here to support you, to cheer you, to celebrate you, to pray for you, as the chairman has very nicely said. But to those who were not selected, let me also assure you that your journey is far from over.”

A positive note about the TEF programme is that the beneficiaries are of the modern generation and would not hesitate in driving with the vision of the scheme. They are in a position to reverse Africa’s narrative of being the cesspool of poverty, war and backwardness.

From the success story of the past beneficiaries, the prospect of Africa seeing a turnaround from its negative perspectives through the drive, focus and determination of the lucky beneficiaries can be seen. A note of assurance resides in Elumelu’s confirmation that the Foundation plans a global spotlight.

“We aspire to magnify our scale and impact, we want to do more. And we are thinking of forming a coalition of African entrepreneurs that will touch more lives. We are thinking of launching a coalition, a global coalition, to prioritize young Africans.”

...Maintenance Set to Enter Q2 2024

Christmas break.

The government had earlier in the year repeatedly stated that the Port Harcourt refinery would begin operations before the end of 2023.

The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, who led members of the Refinery Steering Committee to inspect the facility, congratulated the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited and Nigerians in general for the feat.

“In our quest to ensure that this refinery is re-streamed to continue to deliver value to Nigerians, we made a promise that we will reach a mechanical completion of phase one of the rehabilitation project by the end of December and get the other plants running in 2024. Today, we have kept those commitments,” a statement quoted NNPCL Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari as announcing during a facility tour of the plant.

However, industry experts and inner members of the Refiners have countered the claim by NNPC, maintaining that the refinery was far from the state of resuming actual production.

Among these is Engr Alex Ogedegbe, a former Managing Director of Port Harcourt and Kaduna Refineries at different times who explained that the so-called fulfilled promise was a hoax.

“From the analysis of the information published so far it does not appear that the refinery can start any production in the foreseeable future,” Ogedegbe disclosed in a statement, adding, “It is also noteworthy that the main contractor, TECHNIMONT did not promise any mechanical completion or production start-up dates.”

Last week, the Group Managing Director of NNPC, Mele Kyari, announced April 2024 as a new date for the Port Harcourt refinery to resume operations. In a statement, the NNPCL chief explained that mechanical works, again, have been completed on the facility which had received over 450,000 barrels of crude, following delivery from active lines.

December 2023.

THEWILL recalls that the Senate on October 24, 2023 constituted an ad-hoc committee to investigate all contracts estimated at over N11.35 trillion awarded for the rehabilitation of the four moribund refineries in the country.

This followed a motion brought by Senator Sunday Karimu on the unending repairs of the nation’s refineries despite the huge resources invested in fixing them. He added, “We are concerned that the Federal Government of Nigeria has carried out rehabilitation projects in Port Harcourt Refinery Company (PHRC) over a period of seven (7) years from 2013-2019 at an estimated cost of N12,161,237,811.61. In addition, on the 18th March 2021, a rehabilitation contract was executed between NNPC/PHRC and Tenenimont SPA at a Lump Sum of $1,397,000,000.00, about N75 billion naira amidst global public criticism, no result has been achieved. While Nigerians were still expecting the outcome of the Senate probe of the refinery repairs, the federal lawmakers on February 20, disclosed that the upper legislative chamber had resolved to probe how the N30 trillion Ways and Means loans of the Central Bank of Nigeria was obtained and spent by the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Meanwhile, unconfirmed reports revealed that the government engages in ‘secret’ payment of subsidies amounting to over N17 billion daily following the rise in price of oil at the international market.

FBN Holdings Announces Five New Directors as Otedola’s Chair Tenure Begins

FBN Holdings Plc has appointed three new directors for the HoldCo and two more for the Bank marking the beginning of billionaire investor, Femi Otedola’s, tenure as chairman of the holding company.

The holding company announced the appointment of Mr. Olusola Adeeyo, and Mr. Viswanathan Shankar as NonExecutive Directors of FBN Holdings Plc respectively.

The bank (a subsidiary of the HoldCo) also appointed Mrs. Remilekun Adetola Odunlami as Non-Executive Director and Mr. Anil Dua and Mrs Fatima Ibrahim Ali as Independent Non-Executive Directors of FirstBank .

All the appointments are subject to the approval of Central Bank of Nigeria and the shareholders at the next Annual General Meeting of the Company.

Until February 2023, Mr. Adeeyo was the

Chairman, AXA Mansard Insurance Plc and had previously served on the board of other reputable companies Including, Central Securities and Clearing Company Plc and Viathan Engineering Limited, among others.

Viswanathan Shankar, a vastly experienced personality is Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Gateway Partners, a private equity and alternative investments manager focused on investing in the dynamic growth markets of Africa, Asia and the Middle East.

Remi Odunlami has served In various management and board leadership positions such as the Director/Country Risk Manager in CitiBank Nigeria Limited where she managed the credit portfolio and enterprise risk management processes within the bank, and she was the first female in Citibank across Africa to serve as an Independent Risk Senior Credit Officer.

Mr. Anil Dua has sat on the boards of Standard Chartered Bank Limited in Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, and Cote D’Ivoire.

He also served on the Board of Dangote

GSP Offshore FZE, Seychelles International Mercantile Banking Corporation, Heirs Holdings Oil and Gas Limited, Matador Investment Management Limited and Africa Property Development Managers.

Mrs Fatima Ibrahim All founded Santi Food and Beverage Limited In 2015, drove the company’s strategic direction and orchestrated business development efforts that yielded over 300% growth in consumer retail and supply channels within the first five years of establishment.

FBN Holdings Plc announced the appointment of Mr. Olufemi Otedola as its new Chairman of the Board of Directors in Januaryu succeeding Alhaji Ahmad Abudullahi.

Nigeria Customs Suspends 25% Penalty on Improperly Imported Vehicles

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the suspension of the 25 percent import duty penalty on improperly imported vehicles.

The directive for the suspension came from the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, and is said to be part of strategies to help rejuvenate the economy and ensure compliance.

The National Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Customs Service, Abdullahi Maiwada, made this known in a statement on Friday.

“The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), under the directives of the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, has initiated a 90-day window, effective from 4th March 2024 to 5th July 2024, for the regularisation of import duties on specific categories of vehicles.

“To ease economic hardship and encourage compliance, the Honourable Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy has approved the suspension of the 25% penalty previously imposed in addition to import duty on improperly imported vehicles,” the official said.

Thousands of vehicles are improperly imported into Nigeria, often from land borders with neighbouring countries such as Benin and Niger.

Many of such cars do not undergo proper documentation at the customs, including payment of levies, leading to the imposition of the 25 per cent penalty when the owners of such vehicles eventually decide to register them.

It is that penalty that has now been suspended.

The customs spokesperson stated that concerned persons have a 90-day window from 4 March to 5 July, to regularise import duty payments.

“Stakeholders, including vehicle owners, importers, and agents, are encouraged to seize this opportunity to regularise import duty payments within the designated 90-day timeframe,” he added.

The latest announcement adds to the efforts of the customs to address the demands of Nigerians amidst a cost of living crisis in the country.

Earlier in the month, in response to concerns regarding inconsistent import duty assessment levies, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) issued a directive advising the Nigeria Customs Service to adopt the closing foreign exchange rate in the official window for import duty calculations.

Amidst the recent liberalisation of the forex market, importers have faced uncertainties in the pricing of goods and services.

The irregular changes in import duty by the customs have further compounded these challenges, resulting in disruption in pricing and overall business operations.

To provide clarity and reduce business uncertainty, the central bank through a circular signed by Hassan Mahmud, director of trade and exchange department, advised that the closing FX rate on the date of opening Form M for importation should be used for duty assessment.

“The Central Bank of Nigeria wishes to advise that the Nigeria Custom Service and other related parties adopt the closing FX rate on the date of opening Form M for the importation of goods, as the FX rate to be used for Import Duty Assessment.

Govt Reiterates Intention to Boost Power Supply to 6,500MW in Six Months

The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has reiterated the federal government’s plan to raise electricity generation from 3,500 megawatts to 6,500MW within the next three to six months.

During a working visit to various power projects in Lagos on Friday, Mr Adelabu said the aim was to enhance power supply across the country to meet the growing energy demands. His visit included an inspection of the headquarters of Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) and two 20 MVA injection substations at Randle, Surulere, along with Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) monitoring rooms.

Mr Adelabu emphasised the urgency of boosting electricity generation capacity, stating, “3,500 megawatts is not acceptable, and we have plans to increase the capacity to a minimum of 6,000 to 6,500 within the next three to six months.”

He commended EKEDC for its achievements over the past decade and stressed the need for continuous improvement in the power sector to drive economic growth and development effectively. Highlighting the critical role of the power sector in industrial and economic development, Mr Adelabu compared Nigeria’s power generation capacity unfavourably to that of countries like Korea and China, underscoring the need for substantial improvement.

Addressing challenges in the power sector, Mr Adelabu emphasised the importance of prioritising baseload power generation and gradually transitioning to cleaner energy sources to meet the nation’s energy needs effectively.

He acknowledged the persisting complaints about power outages and urged stakeholders to work collaboratively to address these challenges and improve service delivery.

Mr Adelabu outlined the government’s strategy to prioritise service provision to customers in higher billing bands while gradually extending improved services to all segments through strategic infrastructure investments.

Recognising the role of Distribution Companies (DisCos) in customer service, Mr Adelabu said it was important to ensure proactive engagement and efficient operations at this level to address consumer needs effectively.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that he stressed the need for comprehensive reforms and transformation in all segments of the power sector, focusing on issues such as metering, vandalism, debt collection, and customer relations.

Mr Adelabu highlighted the necessity of stimulating demand through customer engagement to ensure effective utilisation of generated power and underscored the importance of efficient distribution to prevent wastage.

The minister noted the government’s commitment to enhancing the sector’s performance through substantial investments in infrastructure and efficient customer response.

In response to the minister’s visit, Oritsedere Otubu, chairman of EKEDC, commended the government’s efforts to improve power supply and expressed the company’s commitment to supporting the initiative.

Tinuade Sanda, CEO of EKEDC, said the company would continue to collaborate with government agencies and consumers to protect power assets and curb vandalism within its operations.

•Continues online at www. thewillnews.com

L-R: Director, Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development, NYSC, Mrs Ngozi Nwatarali; Director, General Services, NYSC, Alhaji Yusuf Baba Abdullahi; representative of Director General of NYSC, Hajiya Zainab Isah; Director, Ventures Management, Prince Mohammed Momoh and Director, Procurement, Chief Chiwendu Chukwu, during the opening of NYSC Store Officers workshop in Abuja on March 19, 2024.

National Economic Council Approves $617.7m i-DICE Programme Nationwide

The National Economic Council (NEC) has endorsed the implementation of the $617.7 million Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (i-DICE) programme across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The approval was given during the 140th meeting of the National Executive Council, chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima, according to a statement by Stanley Nkwocha, the Vice President’s spokesperson.

The Vice President assured that as the scheme becomes operational in the coming weeks, implementation nationwide will be diligent, committed, and forthright.

In his opening remarks, Sen. Shettima pledged the government’s commitment to ensuring citizens benefit from promised opportunities. He emphasized the priority placed on skill acquisition and job creation, aligning with President Tinubu’s eight-point agenda, which emphasizes dignified livelihoods for Nigerians.

He said, “But two things are clear: one, we won’t ever regret paving the way for the acquisition of skills that meet the needs of the global markets; two, our actions today will shape the economic landscape of tomorrow, and so it’s incumbent upon us to ensure that we leave a legacy of prosperity and opportunity for all Nigerians.

“When we empower entrepreneurs and small business owners, we unlock the potential for innovation, job creation, and economic growth. By providing access to financing, training, and mentorship programs, we unleash the entrepreneurial spirit that lies within every Nigerian, catalysing a wave of economic prosperity that benefits us all. We cannot achieve this without inclusivity and equitable access to opportunities. This is the ladder we must offer to every disadvantaged citizen.”

The Vice President highlighted that the government has progressed from discussions to the implementation phase, actively pursuing short-term objectives as part of its journey towards achieving medium and long-term strategies.

During his presentation on the i-DICE programme, Mr. Shekarau Omar, the Executive Director overseeing SMEs at the Bank of Industry, stated that the i-DICE programme, aims to fulfill the commitment made by the Tinubu administration to generate millions of jobs in the technology sector.

Equities Market: UBA, FBNH, Access Holdings

Dominate Trading in Week-ended March 22

Trading in the top three equities namely United Bank for Africa Plc, FBN Holdings Plc and Access Holdings Plc (measured by volume) accounted for 564.882 million shares worth N16.990 billion in 8,493 deals, contributing 32.56% and 34.85% to the total equity turnover volume and value respectively.

The NGX All-Share Index and Market Capitalization depreciated by 0.42% to close the week at 104,647.37 and N59.169 trillion respectively.

A total turnover of 1.735 billion shares worth N48.755 billion in 45,237 deals was traded last week by investors on the floor of the Exchange, in contrast to a total of 1.773 billion shares valued at N52.867 billion that exchanged hands last week in 44,713 deals.

The Financial Services Industry (measured by volume) led the activity chart with 1.273 billion shares valued at N31.077 billion traded in 23,066 deals; thus contributing 73.36% and 63.74% to the total equity turnover volume and value respectively. The Conglomerates Industry followed with 123.237 million shares worth N1.772 billion in 3,205 deals. The third place was the Consumer Goods Industry, with a turnover of 104.854 million shares worth N5.292 billion in 6,166 deals.

Four States Seek Shareholder Rights in Benin Disco

The state governments noted that the decision is to ensure the efficient provision of electricity services to citizens.

This was disclosed in a letter dated 18 March, addressed to the Executive Chairman of NERC, Sanusi Garba.

The letter was jointly signed by the Commissioner for Energy in Delta State, Jerry Ehiwairor; the Commissioner for Mining and Energy in Edo State, Enaholo Ojeifoh; the Commissioner for Infrastructure and Public Utilities in Ekiti State, Mobolaji Aluko; and the Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources in Ondo State, Razaq Obe.

The officials signed the letter on behalf of the state governments.

The letter titled ‘Notification of intent to exercise shareholder rights in the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC)’ was also sent to the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, Shamsuddeen Usman, Chairman, Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), Director General, Nigeria Governors Forum, Chairman, Senate Committee on Power and Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Power.

“We write to formally inform the NERC (the “Commission”) of the intent of the governments of Delta State, Edo State, Ekiti State and Ondo State (the “BEDC State Governments”) regarding our collective residual equity in the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC).

“After a thorough evaluation of the operational deficiencies and service delivery failures to our states, the BEDC state governments intend to exercise our shareholder rights in BEDC, to ensure the efficient provision of electricity services to our citizens,” the letter reads in part.

The state governments said the provision of reliable electricity to enhance the welfare and development of people is a core priority of the government.

“As such, we cannot afford to overlook the critical importance of ensuring that electricity distribution services provided by BEDC meet the needs and expectations of our populace henceforth,” the letter reads.

The state governments explained that in exercising their shareholder rights, they intend to actively participate in the decision-making processes of BEDC both at the board and management level of the company, to strengthen operations of the company and enhance service delivery, improve operational efficiency, increase electricity access to unserved and underserved communities, and ultimately, transform the electricity sector within the states.

“Please note that our demand is not capricious and merely wishes to correct a historical lapse. We wish to emphasize that at no point did the BEDC State government give any Power of Attorney (PoA) to either the Federal Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOF) or the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) with respect to our shareholding in the PHCN successor Benin Electricity Distribution Company, or the post-privatized entity.

“It has come to our notice that the commission intends to exercise a regulatory takeover of BEDC by March 31, 2024. The commission is kindly requested to formally notify the BEDC State governments before taking any regulatory action to appoint new directors and a management team for the company.

“We also urge the commission to immediately commence the process of unbundling BEDC into its operational areas along state boundaries,” it said.

The state governments further assured the commission of their support and cooperation in exercising any regulatory action against BEDC and its core investor, provided their rights as shareholders in the company are not breached.

Lastly, the state governments requested a meeting with the commission to discuss its intention as outlined in the letter in order “to exercise our rights in the company with a view to working out how these rights will be exercised under the commission’s regulatory oversight and for the benefit of all stakeholders involved.” •Continues

How Inflation is Changing Consumer Behaviour

Small businesses and consumer goods firms are facing heavy disruption in their supply chain and operational costs due to inflation, currency risk, removal of fuel subsidies leading to a significant increase in energy costs and scarcity of foreign exchange (FOREX).

In recent times, revenues and business forecasts are set to suffer short-term pressures, declines and low or no profits. Because the Nigerian economy is largely import-driven, the unstable foreign exchange rate continues to generate higher import bills for many of these companies. Consequently, this results in a significant rise in the expenses associated with production and manufacturing in the country, and we have noticed the ongoing constraints on consumer spending and business continuity amidst the rising inflation.

Apart from the challenges above, power, restocking cost, and transportation are among other key factors contributing to the high expenses incurred by all forms of businesses in the country, be it micro, small or big companies at this time. In fact, small businesses are struggling, and many are on the brink

of collapse. Even big companies such as Nigerian Breweries have posted losses and released their audited results for the period ended December 31, 2023, revealing a net loss of N106 billion during the year, largely induced by the impact of the devaluation of the naira on its foreign exchange transactions. Multinational companies in the country, such as GlaxoSmithKline Plc, Nestle MTN, and Unilever, are also posting losses, and the list of these companies reporting losses continues to grow. These companies may be unable to pay year 2023 dividends to their shareholders based on this status, which is a concern.

If these challenges persist, many of these multinational companies will hold extremely high foreign-currencydenominated debts, which may significantly strain their business continuity and job security for the teeming employees. Because inflation is still rising, and the new price level and high cost of producing goods and services have continued to be the trend. Due to this inflation, purchasing power is weakening and the ability to buy goods and services has significantly decreased.

Nigeria's headline inflation has

If these challenges persist, many of these multinational companies will hold extremely high foreigncurrency-denominated debts, which may significantly strain their business continuity and job security for the teeming employees

reached its highest levels in over 18 years at 29.90 per cent in January 2024, according to the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS). But the real inflation rate in the country caused by the food inflation could be well above that.

The upward trend in the prices of basic food items continues to disrupt the spending pattern of consumers and citizenry, and individuals are refraining from spending on other households' needs, products and services. Consumption and spending are currently weak in the country, which should ordinarily be the economy's primary driver.

Therefore, to stem the current tides, companies may need to adopt strategic measures to cushion the effect of these challenges, particularly the volatile foreign exchange and harsh business environment. One key way of managing businesses at this time is through cost-saving measures and one of them is through technology adoption, particularly for service-oriented businesses.

Business survival and continuity at this time depend largely on the ability to manage operational costs. If operational cost continues to increase and these businesses cannot transfer these costs to the customers, the businesses will be at risk and in a vulnerable position.

The use of technology may be helpful at this time because it will allow the automation of common processes in business, such as distribution, sales, after-sales service, and inventory management. The marketplace for business transactions will be extended beyond traditional boundaries with the adoption of technology through e-commerce.

The necessary shopping, bargaining, and transactions can take place anywhere, and businesses can be accessible everywhere and anywhere in Nigeria with the adoption. Obviously, this strategy's adoption will provide customer convenience that will enhance and reduce shopping costs. Transactional and operational costs of online transactions are lower; therefore, business operators can showcase, transact and sell anything, even perishable items, such as fresh tomatoes, chicken, and so on these platforms.

In essence, it will reduce huge transportation costs, and e-commerce will provide the platform for businesses, irrespective of their size or number of employees, to thrive beyond borders and geographical location and build reputations. If a country has businesses that produce goods and services that can be sold in the international market, then there is a great likelihood that its currency will be strong.

Companies should strive to achieve this at this time and connect with their high-net-worth customers and business partners promptly and efficiently nationwide and internationally.

Commercial activities are aided faster online, and effective usage of e-commerce can provide this. Likewise, it is convenient for clients to transact online because it will save them the stress of transportation and other logistic cost. By adopting e-commerce, businesses benefit from increased revenues and sales, improved market reach, access to new markets globally and cost savings on marketing and communication expenditures.

Therefore, the ability to quickly and flexibly incorporate new strategies, such as e-commerce will set business operators apart during this period, including young entrepreneurs, women in business, agriculturalists, manufacturers and business executives. It will change shopping and consumer behaviour.

•Olubiyi is an entrepreneurship and business management expert.

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STEPHANIE COKER-ADERINOKUN

ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY

Shining Light on PCOS Will Serve as Beacon of Hope For Women Suffering From it – Stephanie Coker-Aderinokun

Nollywood actress and media personality, Stephanie CokerAderinokun speaks with IVORY UKONU about her new documentary film titled, ‘Where The Heck Is My Period?’ which was recently released on Prime Video. The documentary offers an intimate perspective on the experiences of women living with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder.

Over two years ago, you mentioned to me that you were working on a documentary centered around Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Your dream finally came true. What was filming the documentary like?

I must say that it was very emotional for me. I poured my heart into it. I have always been passionate about women’s health, especially women living with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) , a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age that causes enlarged ovaries with small cysts at the outer edges.

Women with PCOS may have infrequent or prolonged menstrual periods or excess male hormone (androgen) levels. This syndrome affects about one in 10 women in the world and it is one of the main causes of infertility, but people don’t talk about it. I wanted people who suffer from it to know that they are not alone and to make them feel seen, loved, understood and supported. Sharing my story publicly was a big step I was willing to take. Although nerve-wracking, I’m glad I did it.

Every time I heard the stories of the women, I felt a wave of emotions. While it was hard listening to their struggles, I’m happy I could find women who were willing to be vulnerable, be their authentic selves and support each other by telling our stories. This documentary is very dear to my heart and I decided to pour myself into this by telling my story and being a major part of the filmmaking process.

Your vulnerability and courage to shoot this documentary on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is commendable particularly because it is your own personal story.

Thank you. I shot the documentary alongside other African women from different socioeconomic backgrounds. They all bravely opened up about their own experiences with PCOS. Their vulnerability and courage serve as a beacon of hope for women everywhere, inspiring them to seek support and take control of their health. I was diagnosed with the syndrome at age 16. So my aim is to educate people on the life-altering experiences, such as menstrual irregularities, depression, anxiety, obesity, irregular hair growth, unexpected physical changes and infertility as some of the challenges women with PCOS face. The documentary explores the challenges, triumphs and resilience of women as they navigate the complexities of the condition. Like I said, I hope every woman living with PCOS watches this and feels loved, seen and heard.

Why the choice of Michael Akinrogunde as the director of the documentary?

Well, because I felt that Michael Akinrogunde who is fondly called AMA Psalmist could bring to life my vision for creating awareness about PCOS. The Covenant University graduate has worked on some of the biggest blockbusters produced in the country as well as getting accolades for his work.

I suppose being affected compelled you to start a foundation on PCOS

Yes it did. I am the founder of 'The Future Is Her,' a nonprofit organisation dedicated to the education and early diagnosis of people living with PCOS. Will you be shooting more of this kind of documentary film?

Of course. We will be producing more documentaries that shine light on some issues that are not frequently talked about and hopefully films and TV shows. I have a studio where I will be producing it with my all female team.

Your podcast, 'Hook me up with Stephanie Coker' is a little over two years-old now. How has the journey been?

It has been good. I joined the podcast train in 2019 and the podcast series was tagged 'Unscripted with Stephanie Coker'. It was me having real, unscripted, unfiltered conversations with some celebrities; talking about different issues from marriage, fashion, life and everything in between. That was short-lived.

In 202o during the COVID-19 pandemic, I started a live session on Instagram where I was helping people out and they really loved it and wanted me to continue. I found another way to do this, that is more seamless because Instagram live can be a bit clumsy. I wanted something that would be episodic so that people can go back and watch it. It was called 'Hook me up with Stephanie Coker' which was basically about relationships, marriage and hooking people up literally. It was more or less like having an ‘agony aunt’ who you tell all your issues. A guest and I would talk about these issues and try to help them out. Then there is a segment where people called in, seeking my help to find love. That was pretty much the premise of the podcast.

What was the inspiration behind it?

I have always loved dating shows. I recorded a dating show about five years ago, but I never aired it and since then I have always felt like I need to do this. Besides, I am really big on love, happiness and marriage. I just think that everyone deserves love. So, in my own way, I have been hooking people up. I even hooked people up in my day-to-day life and I have hooked a lot of my husband’s friends up.

Not many people know you started your career on radio

Yeah, I actually started on radio. When I moved to Nigeria I started with Cool FM, stayed with them a couple of months. Then I was with MTV for five years. During that time, EbonyLife started. I joined EbonyLife too. I was the first presenter on Ebony Life because I was the co-host during Mo Abudu’s search for presenters. I did their first reality show with two other ladies. Cameras were following us around. I hosted the Wardrobe Diary on EbonyLife as well. I also hosted a couple of big shows on EbonyLife. I was also on Tinsel at that time. I was working on every single network and people would ask me how I was able to do that. I was on EbonyLife, MTV, Africa Magic plus, Tinsel, all at the same time. And then I got to co-host The Voice season 1 and 2. I was still with MTV when I was doing that and most recently, in season 3 as the host of the Red Room.

In my last interview with you, you did mention that you were hoping that your podcast would transition to a talk show. How has that vision been going?

Yes, that was my aim and I am glad it has worked out. I now host 'Me, Her & Everything Else,' a show that is based on discussions around women, society and lifestyle with the aim of uplifting women and sharing their stories.

You have appeared in some blockbuster movies like 'The Fate of Alakada,' 'The Wedding Planner' and 'King of Boys 2.' What determines the movie you feature in?

I am so picky when it comes to the movies I feature in. I really just want to stick to movies that are organised and not very large, you know, not like ‘oh come on set and just do this character.’ I really want to absorb the character, even if it’s like a two minute scene. I really want to be able to do that.

How do you juggle acting, being a media personality, a mum and a wife?

I am used to it and I like to think of myself as someone who can multitask. But juggling between motherhood and work gives you this ‘Mom Guilt.’

Whenever you leave the house, you just feel guilty. But I am happy that my daughter is in school now so that gives me more room to juggle. You once revealed that you had your daughter through In Vitro Fertilis ation, (IVF). Why did you feel the need to reveal that?

My mom actually told me not to talk about it. Most people who go through IVF do not like to talk about it because they feel it’s like a stigma and people are going to look at you differently.

Most people associate IVF with people who have made several unsuccessful attempts at getting pregnant. But you were married for only three years and then you tried IVF. Why?

Well, a couple of things, but really the main one was that I felt like I was wasting time as well.

So I just thought if there’s a quick solution to something as opposed to the whole process of trying and trying, why not give it a trial. What happened was that I developed ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome which is a syndrome where your ovaries hyper stimulate and I got really sick like it was really bad; it was life threatening. I was in the hospital and was on anesthestics every day because they were trying to drain liquid out of me after the egg retrieval to make embryos. I got really sick and felt like I was actually done. I did IVF because I didn’t want to waste time. Besides, there were other things as well that were going on. So, I said let’s just do this because it was straight forward and that was it.

A lot of young people do it, though they just don’t say it because they feel like somebody may go like ‘Oh! Your fallopian tube must be really bad, maybe because you had lots of abortion.’ People are too quick to jump into conclusion; they don’t usually think it might be genetic or just medical issues.

What is your take on surrogacy?

Surrogacy is yet to be openly accepted here. That’s the same thing we have argued about because some people still go to church and they will be like God did it for them. Obviously I know that God is involved because without God science won’t be available, but people keep saying that it was because their pastor prayed fervently and then they had triplets. We all know that triplets are mostly from IVF. And the problem of not being open is that people end up feeling like God neglected them, meanwhile, this person has probably done IVF and they are not saying what they did, they just say that the pastor was amazing and now I am pregnant. Don’t get me wrong, I know it happens, but the truth of the matter is that there are other things involved.

What was growing up like for you?

ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY

“It was good. I have a brother who lives in the United Kingdom and works at the London Stock Exchange. My growing up years were very nostalgic. I grew up in London, but our home was a typical Nigerian home. I used to listen to a lot of fuji music from Salawa Abeni, Lagbaja, Haruna Ishola, Kwam1 and Sunny Ade. I think when you have an accent people just believe that maybe you don’t listen to all those kinds of songs. And I used to attend a lot of Owambe parties in London. When I got into the University, I would come to Nigeria on holiday and one time I stayed for like a year it was on one of such occasions that I met my husband.

Why did you move back to Nigeria?

Even though Nigeria lacks a lot of structure, there is something about it that allows you to be independent. You know in the UK, there are safety nets and structures put in place to make life easy. You go to work and come home, everything is available, there is electricity, water but the thing is that when you’re an ambitious person you have to be around ambitious people and I felt like there are so many ambitious people in Nigeria, especially in Lagos. When I moved back, I really hustled, though my own suffering was the ‘ajebutter’ suffering because my mom gave me money when money finished in my bank account. I was living in a two-bedroom apartment in Lekki. Before then, I lived in Ebute Metta and then Maryland. But then my mom cut me off because I was always going to eat at ‘The Palms’ shopping mall. She told me to go find a job. So I started managing my money like in the morning I would buy ‘puff puff’, then in the afternoon I would buy indomie noodles and then I would watch Africa Magic Yoruba all day with the househelp then. And then I would create a proposal and concept about shows. I feel things were better than they are now, because everybody then was just trying to make it. There weren't Instagram people who were showing off.

What is it about your growing up years that has shaped you to be who you are today?

I will say being exposed to different people. While in London I grew up in a multicultural setting with different types of people who had different upbringing and opinions. Which is what taught me not to be judgmental. So, I think that allowed me to be open minded and also to be able to express myself and it taught me to be resilient as well because my mom is very hardworking. She did a lot like shuttling between three jobs and she really

inspired me to really hustle and also to work hard. I feel one really needs to pay your dues and work hard. Everything used to be based on merit. It’s changing now, which is fine, but I still believe that you should work hard. Sometimes you’re given a job just because you’re popular on Instagram. Everything isn’t based on talents anymore unlike how it was before.

Two years ago, the late Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba Adesanya Olugboyega Dosunmu bestowed on you and your husband the chieftaincy titles of Akinruiyiwa and Yèyé Akinruiyiwa of Owu kingdom. Why do you think you were both singled out for the titles?

Because the King saw what my husband has done for the Owu Kingdom and communities around Abeokuta through his initiatives. Everyone is very proud of him, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo who is not only an Owu indigene but who was also physically present when we were bestowed with the titles. My husband’s title means the warrior that brought dignity home. So by default, I got the title as well. I believe that my husband is very deserving of this. He has definitely brought dignity to his hometown. He has gone through so many challenges and adversities and overcame them and continued to recognise the people in his hometown by helping them through our foundation and by trying to make life easier for them. My family is grateful for being bestowed with these titles.

How is your vision on impacting humanity with your titles going?

We have always been about charitable deeds and helping people around us. Through the Olumide Stephanie Aderinokun Foundation, we have been impacting women and children and have been giving back to schools, built boreholes in communities, etc. We have supplied electricity to communities that do not have any source of light. We plan on doing so many other things, but I personally have been using my platform to help and I am planning a project that will be beneficial to the Owu kingdom, Abeokuta and Lagos State. This will revolve around children and fashion.

If you were not into the entertainment industry and media, what other profession do you think you would have been comfortable I have no clue, maybe law. I studied Media and Communication. I have always known what I wanted to do

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age that causes enlarged ovaries with small cysts at the outer edges. Women with PCOS may have infrequent or prolonged menstrual periods or excess male hormone (androgen) levels. This syndrome affects about one in ten women in the world and it’s one of the main causes of infertility, but people don’t talk about it. I wanted people who suffer from it to know that they are not alone and to make them feel seen, loved, understood and supported. Taking the big step of being vulnerable enough to share my story publicly was a big step I was willing to take. Although nervewracking, I’m glad I did it

ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY

OBY EZEKWESILI'S HUSBAND CLOCKS 70

Pastor Chinedu Theodore Ezekwesili, husband to Obiageli Ezekwesili, a former Minister of Solid Minerals, recently clocked 70. To celebrate her husband's milestone, the former Minister of Education, alongside some close friends and relatives, threw him a party in the Federal Capital Territory, (FCT).

The two-day festivities, with Frank Nweke jnr chairing the birthday committee, began with heartfelt tributes from the celebrant’s friends, colleagues in the vineyard of the Lord, family, associates, members of the congregation, etc. This was followed by a symposium themed, ‘Purposeful Men’ in honour of his 70th birthday and '70 minutes of praise' at Glory Tabernacle Parish.

During the symposium, Pastor Ezekwesili said his dream at 70 was to see Nigeria become a super nation God had made it to be. He said the country, as currently managed, might not attain its full potential, hence the need to restructure for effective nation building.

Present at the party proper to felicitate with the celebrant were Abia State Governor, Alex Otti; Minister of Works, Dave Umahi; former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi; Labour Party governorship candidate in Edo State, Olumide Akpata; Pastor Jerry Eze and several others. Music to serenade guests was strictly gospel music and it was provided by the choir of the church he

Continued from page 38

pastors. A very unassuming man, Pastor Ezekwesili is the founding Pastor of The Everlasting Arms Parish (TEAP), Abuja of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG, a mustard seed he planted some 24 years ago which has since blossomed into ‘RCCG TEAP Zone’, comprising dozens of parishes with a strong family of people spread across several countries.

Eyitayo Jegede Drops Ondo Governorship Ambition

HOW LACK OF SEX RUINED SHADE LADIPO'S MARRIAGE

Media personality, Shade Ladipo's marriage has collapsed less than two years after she tied the knot. The media entrepreneur tied the knot with her husband Jide in Lagos and by the end of 2020 the union folded up. The erstwhile couple were able to keep their marital status under wraps because they both relocated to Canada. But opening up on her failed marriage, the media entrepreneur and social activist revealed that lack of sexual intercourse for six months, among other issues, contributed to the failure of her marriage.

Continued from page 38

Pastor Jerry Eze's wife Appointed Chairman, Abia State Civil Service Commission

been appointed as the Chairman of the Abia State Civil Service Commission by Governor Alex Otti.

Mrs Eze holds an MBA in Entrepreneurial Management from the Entrepreneurship Institute, Australia, a Masters in International Human Resource Management from the University of Greenwich London, and is currently concluding her PhD in Human Resources Management. With extensive years in management, she consults for multinational companies, megachurches and several nonprofit organisations. She is the Lead Consultant, MD and CEO of Jeno Management Solutions, a human resource company.

A transformational catalyst, a quintessential speaker and a dynamic

preacher, Eno currently sits as the Resident Pastor of Streams of Joy Umuahia, an expression of their burgeoning ministry, Streams of Joy International. She actively supports women to pursue their God-ordained destinies through mentoring, coaching, and leadership at The Women on Fire Network, an organisation dedicated to empowering and raising pastor’s wives, women in ministry, and women on fire for God since the inception of the Women of Fire network in 2020. She has held several Pastors’ Wives and Women in Ministry Conferences all over Nigeria and continues to serve thousands of members all over the world as far as the United Kingdom, United States, United Arab Emirates, South Africa, and Canada.

aspirant has dropped his ambition. A twotime governorship candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Eyitayo Jegede, has declared that he will not be part of the primary election of the party scheduled for next month. This latest development is coming after the only female aspirant in the state, Oladunni Odu, jettisoned her ambition to become the first female governor in the state to support businessman, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim of the All Progressives Congress, APC.

Jegede, who was the candidate of the PDP in 2016 and 2020, lost to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) on both occasions. He hinges his decision to drop out of the race because he wants to respect the decision of the party leadership to zone the ticket to Ondo South. Ironically, the constitution of his party is silent on zoning. He therefore told his supporters to remain and work

for the progress of the party in future elections.

A lawyer, Jegede was appointed Notary Public by the Chief Justice of Nigeria and in the space of less than 10 years, he was elevated to the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria. He was heading his law firm, Tayo Jegede and Co, in Abuja and Yola before he took up an appointment as the Hon. Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice from where he joined active politics.

A former Chancellor of Anglican Communion of Jalingo, Taraba State, he was once the Chancellor of Anglican Dioceses of Yola and a member of Implementation Committee of American University, Yola, Adamawa State, as well as a member, Chairman Board of Governors, ABTI Academy International School and member, Board of Trustees, Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, Ondo-State.

When they relocated to Canada, they resided in her brother in-law’s home and as such were not able to communicate or function as a couple. They could not have sex to reduce the tension. They were also not able to find their footing. They could not use the bathroom because there was only one and her in-laws were also at home, including their two-year child. The plan was that after six months, they would leave her brother in-law’s house and get their own place. But by the end of the six months, her husband did not want to leave because he owed debts and was doing a contract job. He wanted to get a permanent job. He was happy with everything, but she needed to be happy first and had to leave. Their natural separation resulted in their official divorce in 2020. While she was in Nigeria, she served as the Country Director for WEConnect International in Nigeria. She founded Avienti Limited, a destination management company. She had previously worked with United Nations Volunteers-Nigeria and advertising agencies where she specialized in event management, account management and client services. She is a Goldman Sachs fellow and was a public speaker who regularly appeared on radio, TV and live event platforms. Her talks included topics such as gender equality in the economic workforce, connecting women enterprises, and leading successful businesses in Nigeria.

ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY

IT IS ONE WEEK, ONE TROUBLE FOR KWAM1

This is obviously not the best of times for Fuji maestro, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, more popularly known as KWAM1. In the last two weeks, the 67 year-old has been battling to prevent his reputation from going to ruin. First, it was one of his drummers who alleged that he maltreats his staff. The drummer, Kunle Ayanlowo, said that he worked with KWAM1 for 32 years and in all those years, he achieved nothing as he lived in fear throughout his time with him. He noted that people only see his good side, but don’t know who he really is behind the scenes.

Ayanlowo also claimed that the musician treated him and his colleagues like slaves and would always seize their passports each time they travelled and returned to Nigeria. He also disclosed how Kwam1 ordered him to return home when he ran into him while he was on the way to the hospital for the treatment of ulcer, an ailment he has been suffering for a while.

This expose is coming barely six months after two of KWAM1's band members, the lead guitarist and the keyboardist, absconded without a trace while they were on a musical tour in the United Kingdom. Refuting the allegation on his behalf, a media aide to the singer alleged that Ayanlowo disrespected Kwam 1 in public. The media aide claimed that upon sighting Ayanlowo at the venue of an event he was to perform, not dressed in the band uniform, Kwam 1 told him not to perform with them that day. This got Ayanlowo angry and he asked the singer “are you God?” — before leaving the premises.

According to the media aide, Anyanlowo would later beg Ayinde for forgiveness, but his pleas fell on deaf ears. This made the drummer to turn against Kwam 1 because he was not reinstated to the band. While that was still on the front burner, the singer was accused of having an amorous affair with a socialite, Folake Ibile and a female chef.

Cheating allegations have also dogged KWAM1's highly publicised marriage to Emmanuella Ropo, his latest wife. Each time the allegation arises, he is quick to dismiss it as a mere rumour. The first controversy to hit his less than three-year-old marriage was in April 2022, when the singer denied being slapped by his wife over infidelity allegations. Then in 2023, he denied having issues in his marriage after a footage of him rejecting a kiss from Emmanuella at his 66th surprise birthday party surfaced online.

Meet Olugbile

Debunking rumours of cracks in his marriage, K1’s media aide again came to the rescue. He reiterated that K1 and his wife enjoy a strong and harmonious marriage, untouched by the lies and rumours of malicious sources. They are deeply devoted to each other and without any insinuation of discord. He further denied rumours of any secret marriage between his principal and Ibile as false. He clarified that KWAM1's only connection to her is a coincidental surname, emphasising that Ibile is happily married to another man. He also denied being in a relationship with a female chef, stating that he had never been involved with one or employed a female chef. He dismissed the allegations as baseless and purely fictional. After several shots at matrimony, Kwam 1 married his current wife, Emmanuella, an entrepreneur in November 2021. The couple had an elaborate wedding ceremony at the Palace of the Alake of Egbaland, Ake Abeokuta, graced by over 30 monarchs. It was the first time the Fuji maestro would stage a grand and public wedding. In July 2022, the singer reassured his wife that she was the last wife he would ever marry. Hopefully his reassurances to his wife and his attempt to deny any extra marital affairs are not just mere words but an affirmation of his resolve to remain with her.

Holloway, Polo Buff Who is DG Museum And Monuments

During the week, President Bola Tinubu appointed Olugbile Holloway as the new Director-General, National Commission for Museums and Monuments, an agency that ensures the preservation, promotion and development of Nigeria’s diverse tangible and intangible cultural heritage. Besides his current workplace and educational background - a Bachelor of Arts in Politics and International Relations and a master’s degree in business administration, the presidential spokesman, Ajuri Ngelale, had nothing else to say about Holloway. Not even his picture was attached to the press statement announcing his appointment.

Holloway began his career in advertising with Image Promotions Nigeria Limited and then moved to Proximity Communications Nigeria, where he worked on campaigns for brands like Cowbell, Top Tea, Onga, and Etisalat. He then continued on to DDB Lagos where he worked as a brand manager on more leading brands such as MTN, Globe Motors, Martel and Exxon Mobil. He currently runs his own show as the Managing Director of Evoke Communications Limited, a creative brand/ consultancy agency. Prior to joining the advertising industry, Olugbile worked with the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service, LIRS. He is a sibling to Oladisun Holloway, a former Lagos Commissioner for Tourism and Inter-Governmental Relations, under former governor Babajide Raji Fashola. Olugbile is an ardent polo player and is the honorary secretary of the Lagos Polo Club.

Sansadeen Awosanya Joins League of Private University Owners

Major-General Sansadeen Adebanjo Awosanya (retd.) has joined the league of private university owners in Nigeria. His institution is called Altheia University and it is situated in Ogun State. To project the university as being in a class of its own, he appointed accomplished economist and former Minister of Industry, Chief Mrs Onikepo Akande, as its pro-chancellor and chairman. Other eminent Nigerians on the board of the university include a former Deputy Governor of Ogun State Senator Adegbenga Kaka; former Head of Service of the Federation, Prof. Oladapo Afolabi; immediate past Vice-Chancellor of Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Prof. Ganiyu Olatunde; Prof. Mojisola Ogungbe, Prof. Adebayo Ayeni, Engr. Olufemi Olukoya, Alhaji Ndababo Mohammed Alfa and Mr Olanrewaju Adesanya. Apart from the Governing Council, the university also unveiled the members of its Board of Trustees. They include Prof. Saburi Adesanya, Mrs Adeola Simon, Mr Abiodun Awosanya, Mr Ade Oyebanji (SAN) and Mr

Kola Abdul, who will serve as Secretary. Beyond the university project, Awosanya is the Chairman of Rostrum Investment and Securities Ltd (Member of Nigerian Stock Exchange). Prior to his retirement, he served in the Nigerian Army for 30 years. He holds a pre-military diploma in Accounting from The Polytechnic, Ibadan and a BSc from Gwent College of Higher Education, United Kingdom, a Diploma from University of Lagos; an MBA from Federal University of Technology, Akure and a PhD in Accounting from Marlborough University, Honolulu, USA and a PhD from Olabisi Onabanjo University.

Awosanya is a Member of the Association of Certified National Accountants of Nigeria (CNA), Member of Nigeria Institute of Management (MNIM) and a member of the prestigious National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) where earned his mni. Whilst in the Army he served as Chief Paymaster General and earned the following medals: Forces Service Star (FSS), Meritorious Service Star (MSS), Distinguished Service Star (DSS) and United Nation Interim Forces in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

It was a gathering of who is who when former senator Lanre Tejuosho rolled out the carpets in celebration of his 60th birthday. The high-octane shindig took place at the ballroom of the Oriental Hotel, Lagos. On the band stand to serenade guests was Sir Shina Peters. With more than enough to eat and drink, some of those who made it to the party included his father, the Osile Oke-Ona Egba, Oba Adedapo Tejuoso; his mother and her two famous co-wives; his father in-law, Razaq Okoya and his two surviving wives - the oldest, Kuburat and the youngest, Shade; former Ogun State governors, Gbenga Daniel and Olusegun Osoba; construction magnate, Olu Okeowo and his wife; Chief of Staff to the president, Femi Gbajabiamila; Ogun State

LANRE TEJUOSHO THROWS LAVISH 60TH BIRTHDAY PARTY

governor, Dapo Abiodun; Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, Oba Gbolahan Lawal and his wife, Olori Maryam Lawal etc. Ahead of his birthday, the Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ, Ogun State chapter had honoured him in celebration of the milestone for his demonstrated exemplary leadership and his passion for the welfare of his constituents during his tenure. Unknown to many, Prince Tejuosho who was at different times a former Commissioner for Youth and Sports, for Environment and for Special Duties in Ogun State, is a trained medical doctor. Little wonder during his time as a senator, he was made the chairman, Senate Committee on Health. Despite growing up amidst affluence and opulence, his sheltered reality did not however obscure his determination to pursue the public good and render selfless service. That fact also did not imbue him with an insufferable pride common with wealth. The businessman who is married to Moji, the first child of the patriarch of the Okoya family is the Chairman Governing Council of the University of Lagos.

ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY

Eedris Abdulkareem Vs 50 Cent: When Will Eedris Stop This 20-Year-Old Lie? (2)

Then I saw some three very big fellas in front of Eedris, telling him to stand up. The Nigerian star refused. There was a verbal exchange. I looked beyond the guys and saw 50 Cent standing just by the door of the airplane with a “what is going on here?” expression on his face. Without further ado, one of 50 Cent’s security dragged Eedris up and Eedris’ security responded. And it became a free for all fight. I did not even stand up from my seat as I was too stunned and taken by surprise by what was happening to react. Blows were falling with heavy thuds and what I saw next was one of 50 Cent’s guys having Eedris in a deadly chokehold while the blood of one of his bodyguards was flowing freely from a deep gash on his right cheek.

When Eedris was finding it difficult to breathe, with his last strength, he managed to scream: “Nigeria journalists, una dey here and dem dey beat me like dis, Nigerian artistes, shame on you all”.

I recall someone saying behind me: “Sebi wen dem dey beg you since, you no gree, nah now you know say Nigerian journalists and artistes dey here abi? Idiot”. Eedris was breathless, his hands were slowly dropping, that was when the sound of a bottle that was smashed violently, caused panic in the plane and saved Eedris. I am not sure you have witnessed pandemonium inside a plane or a small area before. It is best you don’t. Everybody was trying to run to the front of the plane where the only exit door was at, over 100 people, all at once! That was when airport security with FAAN officials came and evacuated us all back to the departure lounge.

YOUNG BUCK’s LIE

At this point, I will like to address the lie told by one of 50 Cent’s sidekicks who I never knew was in his band when the incident happened. Young Buck. Real name is David Darnell Brown. I have been watching a video where Young Buck, who is also an American artiste, described what could have happened only in a Hollywood movie as what happened that day. The video made me laugh and very angry at the same time. He said Eedris, in the course of the fracas, made a call and as the plane was taxiing, a very 'big dude' appeared on the runway and was walking towards the plane and the pilots stopped the plane, opened the door and jumped out! Wait o, did that guy narrate the incident of that day or there was another one involving Eedris and 50 Cent that I know nothing about? Why do people take delight in lying? And if one must lie, why don’t you tell a lie about an event you were the SOLE witness to?

The plane did not even start its engines that morning. In fact, the door of the plane did not close. So, where did Young Buck see a 'big dude' walking towards the taxiing plane after Eedris’ call, which made the pilots flee and left us all in the middle of the runway? Haba! No nah! In all my adult life, Young Buck’s lie should win an international award because it was my first time coming into close contact with a bare face lie and perhaps a liar!

Even if I can’t recall every other person inside the plane like the members of thedefunct KC Presh, made up of Kingsley Okonkwo, aka Kcee, and Precious John, aka Presh. The other person was Kcee’s wealthy brother, Emeka Okonkwo, aka E-Money who then was like the manager of the group. I have consistently mentioned Olumide Iyanda who by the grace of God is still very much alive, so I am asking, when did a big dude appear from the woods and was walking towards the already taxiing plane which made the pilot to abandon us all on the runway and run away?

Wen dat one happen abeg?

Now, back to where airport security evacuated all of us back to the departure lounge. At the lounge, Eedris was still blowing hot. He was all over the place making a whole lot of noise. The other artistes in the plane who were all now back with us at the departure lounge were obviously not happy with him, but no one, because of his violent disposition, could confront him. In fact, they were scared of him because at that point, Eedris was ready to fight even his father. On the other side, officials of the company were trying to placate 50 Cent while some non-artistes who could muster the courage to meet Eedris, were talking to him. The mission was clear: let there be peace and the journey to Port Harcourt should resume.

How I Got Into The News

I was sitting some metres away from a boiling Eedris at the departure lounge. Somehow, our eyes locked and he probably did not see the disgust about his action written all over my face or he did, but decided to find out why I was disgusted.

As I made to walk past him (we were all restless, walking about the lounge that day anyway), Eedris beckoned on me to stop. I stood in front of him and in his phoney American accent which he was parading when he was a star, he asked me how I perceived his action. Well, what many others, including his colleagues, were too afraid to tell him, I now had the opportunity to tell him. I told him that what he did was “stupid”.

I recall using the word “stupid”. Before he could react, I gave him an analogy. I asked if he had just two chairs in his living room, one was finer than the other, and a stranger came visiting, which of the chairs would he offer the visitor? That was when it dawned on him that I was not on his side.

He flared up and we started exchanging harsh words. He called me a ‘sell out’ taking sides with a foreigner against my own. The next thing, his goons jumped me from behind and in less than a minute, my long-sleeved shirt was in tatters, my two mobile phones, one a Nokia and Motorola, were smashed into smithereens. I however managed to take a few pot shots at Eedris, but three men to one when I am not a ‘Jack Bauer’ was like 27.90 to 1.06 odds to win. It was one of the officials of the company who brought another new shirt for me, I don’t even know how he did it. So, folks, that was how I got into the news.

HOW CHARLIE BOY GOT INVOLVED

Enter Charles Oputa, aka Charly Boy, into the mix. Unknown to some of us, Eedris had pulled a call through to him even in the midst of the hell storm. A much younger Charly Boy then, with some rough looking characters (who will

you see with Charlie Boy if not rough looking characters, especially when he is the self-acclaimed Area Fada?) arrived; all looking like some goons in a low budget Nigerian movie. As at then, there was cheering news that 50 Cent had agreed to continue the trip to Port Harcourt. We were all shuttling between the tarmac just outside the departure lounge and inside the lounge because 50 Cent and his bandsmen refused to join the rest of us there. They were obviously now scared and understandably so.

When Charlie Boy arrived, and was within earshot of 50 Cent, he announced loudly in his American accent: “This is our country, we run things, things don’t run us”.

That to 50 Cent was a veiled threat and I overheard him ask the officials of the company that organised the show: “Who the f*ck is this guy?”. He was told Charlie Boy was the president of PMAN. In case you don’t know the full meaning of PMAN, let me help you. PMAN means Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria. And that was when 50 Cent changed his mind again about going to Port Harcourt. He obviously figured what manner of an artistes’ union president is, who did not bother to hear from the other party before issuing a veiled threat. Did I forget to tell you that as we were being evacuated from the plane, Eedris loudly told 50 Cent’s men that if they dared step foot on Port Harcourt soil, he would call Ijaw militants (many of you erroneously referred to those militants then as ‘Niger Delta’ militants, but they were actually of Ijaw/Rivers stock only) on them. Need I remind you that back in the day, it was Ijaw militants that the whole country dreaded the same way we now dread Boko Haram and bandits from the north? Boko Haram and bandits were on the side lines then watching the M.O of Ijaw militants.

After the veiled threat by Charlie Boy, 50 Cent once again refused to embark on the trip to Port Harcourt. The organisers were now desperate. Eedris, on seeing Charlie Boy, calmed down, perhaps with the hope that CB would handle the situation well.

Gas as Game Changer And Catalyst For Industrialisation

The Rise of Gas: From Gaslink to the Decade of Gas

by Charles

Lagos, Radi8 Nigeria Limited, 2023, 196pp

Sometime in May 1989, a news bulletin triggered the kind of happiness people experience when they have had a major breakthrough in life. The bulletin itself didn’t mean much to the ordinary Nigerian on the street. But it meant a whole lot to a team of engineers from NNPC/ Shell on that day. One of them was Charles Osezua a 35-year-old natural gas engineer from the famous Texas A&M University in Houston and author of this fascinating book The Rise of Gas: From Gaslink to the Decade of Gas.

Months before in cloistered seclusion in far flung posh offices in London, The Hague and closer home in Lagos, the engineers beavered away formulating a Gas Policy and Pricing to leapfrog the industrialisation process in Nigeria. In the course of their study and data collection, the team toured the industrial zones of the 19 states in Nigeria - Aba, Kaduna, Kano, Jos, Offa, Onitsha, Port Harcourt, Warri to conduct a “market survey to establish the potential gas market in Nigeria, determine the cost of infrastructure required to deliver, and establish the commercial prices for its realisation.”

Done with their assignment, they made persuasive presentations to stakeholders in the Oil & Gas industry, NNPC, Shell, NEPA, industrialists and relevant government ministries “to ensure their buy-in.” And, of course, the Armed Forces Ruling Council the highest decision-making body in the country presided over by military President Ibrahim Babangida who was also Commander-in-Chief. The team’s argument was straightforward: for the government to consider gas a better, cheaper source of energy for economic development and not focus only on crude oil at the expense of what scientists call the queen of the hydrocarbons.

AFRC gave their thumbs-up thus prompting the midday jubilation in May by the engineers. It was going to be a new dawn for the country and they were understandably over the moon.

“I was excited and felt very proud to be a Nigerian and I could envision, immediately, the economic development and transformation of my country facilitated by gas which would fuel power and petrochemical plants, as well as fertiliser companies with other multiplier effects,” Osezua gleefully recalls following the approval. “It was an opportunity for Nigeria to industrilise, stamp her authority as the leading economy in Africa, and perhaps dictate the pace of, or become the go-to-nation for Gas Policy and Pricing dynamics.”

Most shocking to the author is the total disregard by successive Nigerian governments for the vast potentials of gas as an alternative energy source for economic development “

Alas, the team’s happiness was premature and shortlived. As the author tells it in his riveting account, the new law on gas had to be documented in a Federal Government Gazette. It never go to be. Why?

The Minister of Industry, Power and Steel at the time an Air Force chief who was absent from the AFRC meeting when the approval was given, arbitrarily overruled his superiors (including the C-in-C) insisting that his ministry “cannot pay the approved tariff.”

To the author’s utter dismay, the AFRC reviewed and reversed the policy bringing to an abrupt end a master plan for Gas Policy and Pricing painstakingly put

together over a period of nearly three years. Responding to the reversal, Osezua says they were all shocked, asking rhetorically: “Have we suspended our future as a nation that was set to dictate the pace for other emerging economies in Africa?”

Apparently, the government of the day did not think so, neither did successive administrations. It was not until President Muhammadu Buhari declared the turn of the 21st century as the Decade of Gas – part of the subheading in the title of the book - that Nigeria had a comprehensive gas policy in place.

As the title suggests, Osezua’a book chronicles the history of the bride of the hydrocarbons from its very beginning, his role in it and early enthusiasm shown towards a workable national gas policy, the consequences of not tapping into it early enough, the crude politics and power play involved, the betrayals and in-fighting among the big players in the sector. But most shocking to the author is the total disregard by successive Nigerian governments for the vast potentials of gas as an alternative energy source for economic development.

Refining crude with its attendant gas flaring has its environmental hazards. It is not so with gas. Gas is a more effective and cheaper means of running factories compared to diesel or petrol. In fact, Osezua makes a persuasive case that most of the moribund industries in Nigeria today, especially textile, may still be in operation if they had not been totally dependent on diesel and petrol.

“What has happened since President Babangida’s junta suspended the national gas policy?” The expert on gas

...Catalyst For Industrialisation FEATURES

provides an answer. Think of the frequent collapse of the national grid, he urges readers. “What about the regular scarcity and shortage of cooking gas? Or the textile mills that have all ceased to exist in Kaduna, Kano and Katsina and fertiliser scams that have bedeviled the country? Spare a thought for all the factories that have shut down over the past few years because diesel has surged past N700 per litre. These were all problems that the gas policy which had positioned gas as alternative to fuels and feeds was hoping to avoid.”

Part of Osezua’s solution was to set up Gaslink Nigeria Limited, a pioneering company to “show the world that I could walk the talk.” Along with some like-minds, Osezua made a bid for a franchise on gas distribution by Nigeria Gas Company in 1996. It was precisely what he and his team suggested on Gas Policy Pricing which the AFRC rejected. Joining the bid, according to the author, “was to prove that it was possible to translate what we had on paper into reality” and, ultimately, “have industries in the industrial clusters switch their fuel sources from diesel or fuel to the cheaper, cleaner, more efficient alternative gas.”

But for willing and supportive financiers, Gaslink may never have existed. A major backer is Chief Ifeanyi Ochonogor who gave a loan of $3m, pointedly telling Osezuwa that “we invest in character, not in presentations! Anybody can make a good presentation, but it is the character of the person that make things work.” Another is Tony Elumelu who also offered loan facilities to the young company.

Once Gaslink got under way, civilian governor of Lagos State Bola Ahmed Tinubu, ever receptive to progressive ideas, gave Osezua full backing following a presentation by the Gas Man to the governor. “I am looking for people who will help me build a state the black man would be proud of, and what you have told me fits in right there,” Asiwaju pointedly told Osezua. Of course, Gaslink got its “Right of Way” and “No Objections” from Governor Tinubu to laying pipes across roads and streets in the entire state. What’s more, Osezua admits he never bribed anyone in the state for the approval by the governor. “I did not give a dime to anyone in the Lagos State Government. I thank God that there were very good and decent people there.”

The Rise of Gas is not only about Nigeria’s disinterestedness in tapping the vast deposits of gas down below. It is also the compelling story of how Osezua himself became a thoroughgoing professional on anything about gas in Nigeria leading to one of the oracles in the O&G industry Aret Adams nicknaming him “Gas Man.”

Becoming Gas Man

Osezua’s road to becoming Gas Man started way back as a 17-year-old in secondary school at Annunciation Catholic College Irrua. It was 1971. In Form 3, he was part of a debating team to Ughelli scheduled to also visit a Shell facility in the town. Touring the plant, an engineer pointed to an unquenchable tongue of flame and told the students: “This is a gas flare,” continuing that “if properly harnessed, Nigeria can make a lot of money from this gas that is being flared.”

The teenage student was fascinated by what he saw from that moment on, he was hooked. “They had taken us around the plant but it was the gas flare that finally caught my attention and the gentleman who was explaining that there was a lot of potential in the gas being flared. Using slides, he explained all that could be done with natural gas…the chemistry behind it and how hydrocarbons are the building blocks of the petrochemical industry.”

Post-secondary school, Osezua worked at Nigerian Broadcasting Station in Benin City where, as if predestined by fate, one thing led to the other resulting in him getting a government scholarship to study abroad.

“Once Gaslink got under way, civilian governor of Lagos State Bola Ahmed Tinubu, ever receptive to progressive ideas, gave Osezua full backing following a presentation by the Gas Man to the governor

He opted to study Natural Gas Engineering at Texas A&M University – one of two institutions where the course is taught in the United States - instead of a school in the U.K. For Masters’ degree he read Business Admin and International Law. Already aware of his entrepreneurial bias, Osezua chose to read the three courses “to prepare me to view things better from both an Engineering and business perspective. The truth is, you could make an excellent design, but unless it makes economic sense, it will not be implemented.”

By the time Osezua returned to Nigeria for his mandatory one-year youth service, he was posted to the Gas Unit of NNPC, not a full Department, mark you. There was his boss Olukoga and his peer Ajade, Dr. Iheanyi Ohiaheri from Imperial College London, Saidu Mohammed a Chemical engineer.

There wasn’t much to do in the Gas Unit of NNPC.

Even so, Osezua never lost focus of its huge potential for economic development, writing articles and publishing them in O&G journals thus cementing his reputation as the man to chat up on anything gas. So, when NNPC/ Shell formed a team of engineers to come up with a policy statement on gas, Osezua was a natural choice. “I believed that an awareness of the quantum of gas that we had, and a consideration of the commercial potentials would help bring not just awareness, but tilt the policy direction towards gas commercilisation,” the author writes presciently.

For his commitment and knowledge of gas matters, Osezua would rise to become Technical Adviser to Aret Adams GMD of NNPC, a position he describes as “a high profile one with responsibility for advising the GMD on all the business activities (internal and external, including operations, finance, commercial, and joint ventures) and managing the staff in the office of the GMD.”

In that position, Osezua witnessed some of the power play at NNPC, the forceful removal, in 1990, of Adams who rooted for meritocracy against the mediocrity canvassed for by Rilwan Lukman as Minister of Petroleum.

By the time Osezua left NNPC, another offer was waiting, an invitation to help start up Educational Cooperation Society (ECS) on recommendation from Reverend Robert Lozano vicar of Opus Dei in Nigeria, an organisation the author claims to have benefitted from. Now called upon to assist in setting up an educational institution, Osezua gladly took up the offer. At the time in 1994, Nigeria was in an economic tailspin, leaving hundreds of parents unable to fund their ward’s education abroad. The idea, then, was to “set up a business school in Nigeria that could cater to the training needs of that segment.” Thus was Lagos Business School at Victoria Island born and Osezua a pioneer once again.

Despite such digressions, The Rise of Gas is basically about gas and harnessing it in Nigeria. Since the discovery of crude not at Oloibiri in 1956 as the history books have it, but at Dahomey Basin and Akata near Eket, according to Osezua, Nigeria has focused more on exploration and marketing of crude oil instead of gas despite its availability. Associated gas, mostly flared (literally burning money, to the author) is what comes out while drilling for crude. Non-associated gas is what you get in quantum when you drill. To Osezua, both are useful but the “industry and policy makers have not paid the kind of attention they ought to have paid gas. There is opacity and lack of direction and it all started from the definition of what gas means in the oil and gas ecosystem.”

Quoting Dr. Ogbonnaya Orji, Director of Communications of NEITI, Osezua claims that Nigeria’s major foreign exchange earner remains crude oil but argues that gas could easily displace it. For instance, in a 21-year period from 1999 – 2020, Nigeria earned over $741.8 billion from oil but statistics indicate that “gas may well be our Eldorado.” It is not hard to see why.

In a presentation last year by Mrs. Monilola Udoh Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, Nigeria has the ninth largest proven natural gas reserve in the world with approximately 200trilion cubic feet. Despite this, “only 25 percent of those reserves are currently being developed.”

Assured a shelf life in libraries in O & G and engineering departments in schools and as a first of its kind in the history of publishing in Nigeria, The Rise of Gas is all the more important not just because a pioneer wrote it but because of its timeless value to students, researchers and policy makers. Like the untapped vast gas deposits in the Niger Delta, the book may just have remained in the womb of time without ever coming to life where it not for Gloria, Osezua’s wife, who asked for the publication as a birthday gift. It is a birthday gift like no other.

Finidi George And Nigeria's Search For Next Super Eagles' Coach

The Nigeria Football Federation's (NFF) pursuit of a new head coach for the senior men's national team, the Super Eagles, has reached a critical juncture. With the expiration of Jose Peseiro's contract, following the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where Nigeria narrowly missed out on the continental crown after a heartbreaking loss to hosts Ivory Coast in the final, the NFF wasted no time in advertising the coveted vacancy. The governing body issued an open call for applications, attracting a diverse array of candidates – no fewer than 10 – all vying for the opportunity to lead one of Africa's most revered national football teams.

Marrakesh, Morocco. George's tactical prowess was on full display as he navigated the ebbs and flows of the contest, making decisive substitutions that ultimately swung the pendulum in Nigeria's favour.

The game's opening goal arrived, courtesy of a coollydispatched penalty by Cyriel Dessers in the 39th minute, followed by a thunderbolt from Ademola Lookman in the 84th minute that left the Ghanaian goalkeeper grasping at thin air. Although Jordan Ayew's late penalty reduced the deficit, Nigeria held firm to secure a morale-boosting victory, providing George with an impressive start to his interim tenure.

“

The road ahead is arduous, with the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on the horizon, continuing in June

As the NFF embarks on the meticulous process of evaluating the applicants, one name has already been thrust into the limelight: Finidi George. The 52-year-old former international, who amassed over 60 caps for the Super Eagles during his illustrious playing career, has been entrusted with the interim role ahead of the crucial international break in March.

George's appointment as interim head coach serves as a de facto audition for the substantive position and his debut in the dugout couldn't have been more auspicious.

In a high-profile friendly encounter against eternal rivals Ghana, dubbed the "Jollof Derby," Nigeria emerged victorious with a hard-fought 2-1 triumph in

Finidi George's pedigree as a former Super Eagles legend, coupled with his coaching acumen, which saw him guide Enyimba FC to the Nigeria Professional Football League title last year, has firmly entrenched him as a leading contender for the permanent role. His experience as a member of Nigeria's 1994 Africa Cup of Nations and 1996 Olympic Games-winning squads adds an invaluable layer of understanding of the pressures and expectations that come with donning the iconic green-and-white jersey. However, George is not the only candidate whose name has been thrust into the limelight. Among the other aspirants vying for the coveted position are several high-profile figures, both domestic and international, each bringing a unique blend of experience and pedigree to the table.

Sunday Oliseh, who previously held the reins of the Super Eagles from July 2015 to February 2016, is seeking a return to the dugout, aiming to rectify the tumultuous relationship with the NFF and key players that ultimately led to his departure during his previous tenure. Renowned for his insightful punditry and analytical contributions to various media outlets, Oliseh's desire to prove his worth as a coach remains undiminished.

SPORTS

...Nigeria's Search For Next Super Eagles' Coach

Another name that has garnered significant attention is Emmanuel Amuneke, the mastermind behind Nigeria's 2015 FIFA Under-17 World Cup-winning team, the Golden Eaglets. Amunike's candidacy has been bolstered by an endorsement from the legendary Jo Bonfrere, the architect of Nigeria's historic 1996 Olympic Games gold medal triumph.

Amuneke's own playing credentials are impeccable, having been a part of the 1994 AFCON and 1996 Olympics-winning sides, lending credence to his suitability for the role. The ex-Zamalek standout player also exhibited his chops when he guided Tanzania to qualify for the 2019 AFCON, marking the nation's inaugural participation in the event since 1980.

Ndubuisi Egbo, the trailblazing Nigerian coach who etched his name into history by becoming the first compatriot to win a league title in Europe during the 2019/2020 season with KF Tirana in Albania, is another intriguing candidate. His international exploits have garnered admiration and raised hopes that he could replicate such success on the grandest stage with the Super Eagles.

2013, making him a seasoned campaigner in the African football landscape.

in August, allowing him to stake his claim for the coveted role.

Sylvanus Okpala, an ex-Super Eagles assistant coach under the late Stephen Keshi, is another contender whose name resonates with Nigerian football fans. Okpala's pedigree is undeniable, having won the AFCON title both as a player in 1980 and as an assistant

Joining the fray is Michael Nsien, the current head coach of the United States Under-19 team. The 43-yearold Nigerian-American, a former defender himself, firmly believes that his blend of tactical acumen and understanding of the modern game makes him the ideal candidate to succeed Peseiro and guide the Super Eagles into a new era of success.

The list of candidates is further bolstered by the presence of Samson Siasia, a name that carries both reverence and controversy in equal measure. Currently serving a FIFA ban from all football-related activities, Siasia's hope hinges on the NFF delaying the appointment until his ban is lifted

Salisu Yusuf, a former chief coach of the Nigerian national team, is a controversial inclusion in this list, having faced allegations of bribery involving players from the CHAN Super Eagles squad in 2018. Despite the tarnish to his record, Yusuf's current role with Rivers United has reignited his ambitions of leading the senior national team.

Rounding out the list of candidates is Daniel Amokachi, who served as an assistant to Stephen Keshi when the Super Eagles last tasted AFCON glory in 2013. Amokachi's wealth of experience, both as a player

Temporary Ban on Foreign Trips, Yes But …

more, the high cost of governance itself, including excessive salaries and administrative expenses, has been a subject of debate and scrutiny.

It is time for governments at all levels to address these deep-rooted issues and restore public confidence in our democracy and management of public funds. Beyond symbolic gestures like the temporary ban on foreign travel, comprehensive reforms are needed to tackle corruption, streamline bureaucratic processes, and promote transparency and accountability across all levels.

Nigeria must prioritise the implementation of robust anti-corruption measures, including strengthening independent oversight bodies and ensuring the effective prosecution of those found guilty of misappropriating public funds. Additionally, efforts should be made to simplify bureaucratic procedures, reduce duplication of efforts and promote inter-agency collaboration to enhance efficiency and minimise waste.

It is encouraging to note that the Bola Tinubu Administration has taken a crucial step in this direction by committing to implement the recommendations of the Orosanye Report on restructuring the civil service and reducing waste. This long-overdue initiative aims to streamline government operations, eliminate redundancies, and enhance efficiency in public spending. The Federal Government deserves commendation for this bold move, which, if executed effectively, could yield significant savings and redirect resources towards more productive endeavours that benefit the Nigerian people. State governments can also streamline their departments and agencies to improve efficiency. Nigeria needs a decisive and comprehensive action to address this perennial issue, restore public confidence and ensure that public resources are utilised for the betterment of all Nigerians, rather than indulging in graft, extravagance and perpetuating a culture of elitism.

Temporary Ban on Foreign Trips, Yes But …

Recently, the decision by Nigeria's AccountantGeneral's Office to hold a workshop for the 36 State Commissioners of Finance in the expensive city of London, England sparked outrage in the media and reignited debates surrounding the misuse and inefficient allocation of public funds in our nation. This contentious move serves as a poignant reminder of the deep-rooted issues plaguing successive administrations, issues that have persistently undermined our country's progress and exacerbated the hardships faced by ordinary Nigerians: Financial recklessness and fiscal irresponsibility.

While President Bola Tinubu's recent imposition of a three-month ban on publicly funded overseas travel for all Federal Government officials and employees is a commendable step, it merely scratches the surface of a far more profound problem.

Indeed, the mindless decision of the Accountant-General of the Federation, Oluwatoyin Sakirat Madein to host the workshop in England flagrantly reeks of insensitivity and a blatant disregard for fiscal responsibility. It is a move that not only undermines the government's purported commitment to curbing wasteful expenditure but also perpetuates the perception of an elitist and detached leadership, oblivious to the harsh realities faced by ordinary Nigerians.

At a time when Nigeria is grappling with soaring inflation, currency devaluation, and a widening budget deficit, it is utterly irresponsible to squander taxpayer’s money on extravagant overseas events. The resources allocated for such purposes ought to have been redirected towards addressing pressing domestic needs on sectors requiring financial investments at large scale as in healthcare, education, infrastructure, and poverty alleviation.

who are more than capable of providing the required training and expertise. By outsourcing such activities to foreign countries, the government not only undermines

Furthermore, that irresponsible decision raises serious questions about the necessity and effectiveness of conducting a workshop abroad. Nigeria is home to numerous highly qualified professionals and experts

local expertise but also fails to leverage the wealth of knowledge and experience within its own borders. It also raises concerns about transparency and accountability in government procurement processes. Unfortunately, the misuse and inefficient allocation of public funds in Nigeria extend far beyond the realm of foreign travel

and workshops. It is a pervasive issue that permeates various sectors of governance and all the different levels of government, hampering the country's progress and exacerbating the hardships faced by its citizens.

Like a malignant tumour, financial recklessness has metastasized throughout various sectors of governance. Beyond the centre of power in Abuja, this infestation has roots in state governments and even at the local government levels, hampering our nation's progress and exacerbating the hardships faced by its citizens. From corruption and inefficient bureaucracy to unsustainable subsidies and abandoned projects, a multitude of areas demand urgent attention and reform.

Corruption, a cancer that has plagued Nigeria for decades, remains a significant contributor to the misuse of public funds. Bribery, embezzlement and misappropriation of resources continue to divert funds away from their intended purposes, depriving citizens of essential services and infrastructure from the local government level, where government is closest to the people. The issue of ghost workers, wherein non-existent employees siphon funds away from legitimate payrolls, is another area of concern that must be addressed with urgency.

Inefficient bureaucracy and cumbersome procedures also contribute to the wastage of public resources. Delays in project implementation, inflated costs due to unnecessary paperwork and cutbacks and duplication of efforts by multiple government agencies to line private pockets, all lead to significant financial losses and inefficiencies.

Unsustainable subsidies, inflated contracts awarded through non-competitive bidding processes and abandoned projects are additional areas where allegations of misuse of public funds frequently arise. Further-

Bribery, embezzlement and misappropriation of resources continue to divert funds away from their intended purposes, depriving citizens of essential services and infrastructure from the local government level, where government is closest to the people

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