THEWILL NEWSPAPER, October 22, 2023

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Policy Reversal on 43 Import Items Compounds Manufacturers’ Woes

Saraki, Mark in Race For PDP Chairmanship

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ST BREA EAST CA CERR CANNCE DIDIAG NOSISISS AGNO From Shock werment to Empo to Empo werm From Shock ent

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OCTOBER 22, 2023 • VOL . 3 NO. 48

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PEACE AT LAST

Akpabio, Ndume, Others Close Ranks Senate Chief Whip Commends Senate President For Retreat Initiative ● We Have no Permanent Hatred But Permanent Interest – Akpabio ● Senate President Harbours no Ill-will Towards Any Senator – Eyiboh ●

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OCTOBER 22, 2023 T H E W I L L N E W S P A P E R • www.thewillnews.com

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Onah Nwachukwu Editor, THEWILL DOWNTOWN

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t’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so we have a couple of articles about breast cancer this week. Sadly, the disease doesn’t seem to have any headway to a cure as more people get diagnosed. However, I can’t help but wonder what happened to those breakthrough drugs that were proven to have worked for the people on whom the drugs were tested. It truly is frustrating to think that there is a solution out there, but the politics of the big pharmaceuticals won’t let it see daylight. For our cover story, we discuss the disease and profile some breast cancer survivors. Read this on pages 8 through 10. Have you ever wondered what kinds of foods are good for breast health? We feature some of them on Bon appetit, our food page. You’ll find that on page 11. Technology has come a long way in helping diagnose diseases; it’s the same for breast cancer. Check out page 15 for tech that can help screen for and diagnose breast cancer in its early stages.

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Not everyone is a morning person. Some people are at their best in the mornings, while others are grumpy. For the glum lot, we have a few tricks you can practice to help you become a morning person on page 14. navigating a

BREAST CANCER DIAGNOSIS From Shock to Empowerment

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COVER

PEACE AT LAST

Akpabio, Ndume, Others Close Ranks • Senate Chief Whip Commends Senate President For Retreat Initiative • We Have no Permanent Hatred But Permanent Interest - Akpabio • Senate President Harbours no Ill-will Towards Any Senator - Eyiboh BY AMOS ESELE WITH UDEME UTIP AND BASSEY ANIEKAN IN UYO

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enator Ali Ndume’s walkout during last week Wednesday’s Senate session in protest over alleged violation of procedural error by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, was a conceding, calmer one on Friday at the Senate retreat on fiscal policy and tax reforms which held at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State. “Honestly, President of the Senate, I want to commend you. When you said we needed to do a retreat, I said, ‘What was the importance of this retreat?’ But I want to say seriously that I can see the importance of this retreat. I never thought it would be so enriching and educative as this,“ Senator Ndume said, after the day’s technical session presided over by Akpabio had been addressed by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun and Mr Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Senate Tax Reform Committee. Earlier in the day, both Ndume, Senate Chief Whip and Senate President Akpabio had exchanged pleasantries with a firm handshake amid the general courtesies that preceded the opening of the retreat, which was attended by over 100 Senators, including former Senators and exPresident of the Senate, Ken Nnamani and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas. “Those who say the President of the Senate (Apkabio) and Senate Chief Whip, (Ndume) clashed at the Senate should come to Uyo and see them, like all other Senators, embracing one another at the retreat in Uyo”, one of THEWILLNEWS

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Senator Akpabio’s media aides told THEWILL on Friday. “He said reports that there was a disagreement between his principal and Senator Ndume were unfounded.

of President of the Senate and campaigned for the emergence of Senator Akpabio as Senate chief officer,” said the source.

BACKGROUND TO THE “TWO FIGHTHING” CASE

Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, who emerged as the Senate Majority Leader, with ex-governor Dave Umahi, who was a fresher, as his deputy (now Minister of Works) are considered as President Bola Tinubu’s men, just like Akpabio for whom President Tinubu pulled all the stops to ensure he emerged as Senate President.

Investigation by THEWILL shows that there are two sources of quarrel between the duo. The first is institutional. The second is personal. And both weave into the other. At the institutional level, dependable sources trace the beginning of trouble to the time when the principal officers at the Senate were elected. The source said that based on his ranking and experience, having been in the National Assembly since 2003, Senator Ndume ought to have been made the Majority Leader and not the Chief Whip, which is lower in the pecking order of the principal officers of the Senate comprising the Majority Leader, Deputy Majority Leader, Minority leader, Deputy Minority Leader, Chief Whip and Deputy Chief Whip.

“So, in the end, neither the President nor Akpabio, for whom he campaigned, appeared to have supported Senator Ndume to emerge as Majority Leader,” the source said.

These officers are often recommended by political parties, but the Senate President and his deputy can influence the emergence of these officers who will assist them to deliver their mandates.

This politicking then threw up in bold relief the second source of trouble, which is personal. Sources told THEWILL, “Senator Ndume is considered rebellious, a trait that any President who is interested in having a ‘cooperative’ Senate leadership to work with would want to keep at a distance.”

“For Senator Ndume, who was once Senate Majority Leader, that same position would have been the minimum for him, considering his experience and ranking. More so, when he had dropped his ambition for the position

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Ndume, who is representing Borno South Senatorial District, had slammed Akpabio for approving the passage of some executive bills without seeking the input of other members.

Ndume’s display of independence got him into trouble in the Senate many times.

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COVER

...Akpabio, Ndume, Others Close Ranks As Senate Majority leader from 2015 to 2017, he was removed by APC Senators on 10 January 2017. That year, he had disagreed with the Senate over the rejection of Ibrahim Magu as Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, INEC.

He delivered his observation with a punch: “This is the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria guided by laws, rules and procedures. If in the course of proceedings at any session errors are observed, they must be corrected before forging ahead with such proceedings.

Miffed by his public disagreement, the Senate caucus removed him. He was replaced by Senator Ahmad Lawan. On June 11 2019, Ndume lost his bid to become president of the 9th Senate. He contested against Senator Lawan who emerged the winner.

“Mr President, there are some things we do in this chamber that are against the rules. Sir, nobody is too big to learn.” Akpabio recoiled on his seat and stopped Ndume from continuing his statement, saying he had ruled on issues that had been raised and they could not be revisited.

In 2023, he had declared his intention to contest the position again before he was persuaded by the President to support Akpabio, whom he was chief campaigner. As part of his 10th Point Agenda, Ndume had revealed among others that,

Not deterred, Ndume stood his ground and then raised another point of order, specifically, Order 54 to seek correction of the perceived error.

“The Senate President should be one, not first among equals, to work harmoniously and interdependently with the executive and the judicial arms of government without undermining the principles of separation of power.'' Although Ndume, who disclosed that his interest to vie for the office of the Senate President in the 10th Assembly was subject to the position of the party and the fairness of that position, spoke along the same lines conveying the independence of the Senate leadership, when he said, “the Senators will decide who will lead them. We went through the election and won the election. The position of the Senate should not be zoned.” However, a source said, “Senator Ndume has a vision of occupying that position and how it should be run. So, he rebels against any perceived infringement.” RISING TENSION This interplay of personal and institutional challenges reached a head during the screening and confirmation of ministerial nominees, which many senators felt was being unduly rushed, forcing them to work extra time for a bonus which Akpabio unintentionally announced on live television, saying money would be sent to their account to enjoy their vacation, beginning on August 7, 2023. By the time the Senate resumed from its long vacation in September, the tension had almost boiled over as speculations became rife about moves to impeach the Senate President and effect a change in the leadership. Allegations of Akpabio’s insensitivity to the demands of senators, side lining of some ranking senators in the headship of committees and the overbearing influence of President Tinubu filled the air. Again, Ndume, as a principal officer, failed to hide his feelings. Speaking on the allowance in an interview with BBC House Service during the recess, he lashed out at Akpabio. He said, among others, “He made a very wrong statement, and I warned him immediately that his comments were unbecoming of an elder. In fact, we are even planning to take drastic action against him if he continues making unguarded statements and acting as if we are kids.” As these tangles continued in the Senate, supporters began to take sides, particularly with Senator Ndume, whom even the senators of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party could easily align with in making their voices felt. Something that Akpabio felt unbecoming of one of his officers. He did nothing visibly, said a source, he just bided his time. That time and day came on Thursday, October 19, 2023. HOW THE POWER GAME PLAYED OUT ON THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12 Trouble began soon after the beginning of the day’s session when Senator Ali Ndume, representing APC, Borno South, raised a point of order to draw the attention of the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, to alleged procedural errors that were yet to be corrected. According to Senator Ndume, a motion that was moved by Senator Sumaila Kawa, representing New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP, Kano South, on the need for re-opening the Nigeria-Niger border, had no official title, yet Akpabio allowed it to be debated. Ndume drew attention to Order 51 of the Senate Standing Rules and requested that the Senate President allow the observed error for correction during the plenary.

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Another senator, Sunday Karimi, APC, Kogi West rose in defence of Ndume’s point of order by raising another point of order. Akpabio dropped the gavel and ruled him out of order. Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau, raised Order 16, which requires a substantive motion to be moved by any senator seeking to correct or review an earlier decision taken. Ndume rose and said repeatedly, “This is the Senate, this is the Senate,” at which point the Deputy Senate President joined the fray. Akpabio dropped the gavel twice, ruled him out of order without allowing him to exhaust his line of argument and asked the Clerk of the House to send him Order 54. Infuriated, Ndume picked up his documents and stormed out of the Senate chamber. Earlier during Thursday’s sitting, Ndume had strongly objected to what he considered abnormal in the passage of certain bills without formal reading and members’ contributions. In this, he was supported by Senator Ogoshi Onawo, PDP, representing Nasarawa, who said, “Very sensitive bills are brought and are expected to be passed with the speed of light, which is not good for the country,” and turning towards Akpabio, added, “Sir, you are on the seat today; history will judge you that things like this are not good for this country.” In a riposte, Akpabio said, “If the bills we pass are good for the country, history will judge me right. I don’t think we would come here to pass a bill that’s not good for the interest of Nigerians. So, your point of order is noted.” To douse the tension in the Senate Akpabio had to rIse to the occasion and requested that his colleagues meet behind closed doors for further discussion. WHAT THE NOTED SENATE ORDERS SAY Order 51 first raised by Ndume, says: “A motion or an amendment may be withdrawn, at the request of the mover by leave of the Senate or Committee, before the commencement of debate. A motion or an amendment so withdrawn must be made again but in the case of motion, notice is required. (2) “If an amendment has been proposed to a question, the original motion cannot be withdrawn until the amendment has been disposed of.” Now, Order 54 (1) raised, again by Ndume, states: “Any

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We are all working in one accord. There is no problem at all. Even if some people disagree with some of the happenings in the Senate, it is only the majority decision that is going to prevail...We are politicians, no permanent hatred but permanent interest. That interest is the interest of the nation

senator deviating from the provisions of these rules may be immediately called to order by the President of the Senate, or by a senator rising to a point of order. A senator rising to a point of order shall simply direct attention to the part he desires to bring to notice and submit it to the President of the Senate or to Chairman for decision 54(2). “When the question of the order has been stated, the senator who raised it shall resume his seat, and no other senator, except with the leave of the President of the Senate or Chairman shall rise until the President of the Senate or Chairman has decided the question, after which the senator or the Committee at the time the question was raised be entitled to proceed with his speech giving effect to the ruling from the Chair.” Order 16 raised by Deputy Senate President, says: “When a matter of privilege at any time arises, the President shall, until the matter is disposed of, or unless the debate on a motion thereon is adjourned, suspend the consideration and decision of every other question: provided that precedence over other business shall not be given to any motion if, in the opinion of the Senate, a prima facie case of breach of privilege has not been made out or the matter has not been raised at the earliest opportunity.” Clearly, there is no where it is stated in any of the orders that a senator raising a motion should be prevented from doing so, as the President of the Senate did to Ndume. Also, there is also no where it is stated that a senator who had raised a motion, should storm out of the session, as Ndume did. Attempts to reach Senator Ndume through phone or personal contact failed. At the retreat, THEWILL correspondent made an unsuccessful attempt to get in contact with him. So too was Akpabio’s Special Adviser on Media, Mr Eseme Eyiboh. Ajuri Ngelale was equally elusive as he would neither answer his phone nor reply to messages. However, in a statement he issued in reply to Senator Elisha Abbo, who had earlier blamed but recanted his allegation that the President of the Senate was responsible for his sack by the Appeal Court, Eyiboh, said on Thursday that Akpabio harboured no ill-will towards any of his colleagues. He said; “Senator Akpabio, for emphasis, has no ill will towards any of his distinguished colleagues and as he has said in the past, the embers of the leadership election have been buried and replaced by the fraternal bond of nationbuilding he shares with the overwhelming majority of senators.” AKPABIO, NDUME EXPLAIN THEMSELVES Expatiating on the senatorial face-off later, Senator Ndume said what happened at the Senate went against established parliamentary protocol as Akpabio interrupted him from completing his speech. During an interview with BBC Hausa, Ndume said the motion being debated was a security issue that must involve the President. “The closure of the border was not initiated by the President of Nigeria, but rather during his tenure as President of ECOWAS. As such, he has the authority to advocate on our behalf,” Ndume said. In his response, Akpabio disclosed at the State House last week Thursday before jetting out to Akwa Ibom State to host the Senate Retreat, that disagreements might arise in the Senate, but the majority decision will ultimately prevail. “We are all working in one accord. There is no problem at all. Even if some people disagree with some of the happenings in the Senate, it is only the majority decision that is going to prevail,” he noted. Akpabio further explained that any arising disagreements are swiftly handled in closed sessions, ensuring that unity and solidarity are maintained. He stressed the Senate’s commitment to the nation’s interests, saying, “We are politicians, no permanent hatred but permanent interest. That interest is the interest of the nation.” How the permanent interest between Akpabio and Ndume play out in the coming days will be interesting to see. THEWILLNIEWS

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NEWS

L-R: Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele CON; Chief of Staff to the President, Olufemi Hakeem Gbajabiamila and Senate President, Godswill Obot Akpabio CON, during the technical session of the 2-day retreat for Senators of the 10th National Assembly on fiscal policy and tax reforms, held at Four Points by Sheraton Hotel, Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom on October 20, 2023.

Appeal Court Voids Tinubu Orders Release FMC Makurdi Promises Downward Review of Judgement Sacking Alex of ASUU’s Withheld Otti as Abia Governor Four Months’ Salaries Medical Charges

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he Court of Appeal sitting in Kano State on Friday voided the May 18 judgement of the Federal High Court, Kano, which purportedly sacked Alex Otti as Governor of Abia State. The Presiding judge of the Federal High Court, Justice M. N. Yunusa, while ruling on a Suit (FHC/KN/CS/107/2023) filed by one Ibrahim Haruna Ibrahim, had on May 18, sacked all elected candidates of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election in Kano and Abia States. Justice Yunusa had cited the failure of the Labour Party to submit its membership registers of Kano and Abia to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), preparatory to the party’s primary elections as the basis for his verdict. The court had ruled that under Section 77(3) of the Electoral Act, 2022, the Labour Party ought to submit its membership registers to INEC 30 days before its primary elections in Kano and Abia States. The judge held that the voided primary elections of the Labour Party cannot produce eligible candidates to be sponsored by the party in the general election and the participation of the candidates of the party in the election in Kano and Abia States is wasted. Ruling on an appeal filed by the Labour Party against the judgment, the appellate Court, on Friday, faulted the trial court’s hasty determination of the suit, even without joining the necessary parties to the suit. The appellate court also awarded one million naira (N1,000,000) cost against the plaintiff. THEWILLNEWS

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resident Bola Tinubu has directed the release of four of the withheld eight months’ salaries of university lecturers to members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). This was disclosed in a statement issued on Friday by Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity. The statement reads: "The President approved the partial waiver of the "No Work, No Pay" order that was instituted against striking members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), following the commencement of their eight-month industrial action which began on February 14, 2022 and was terminated on October 17, 2022. "In view of his determination to mitigate the difficulties being felt during the implementation of key economic reforms in the country, as well as his recognition of the faithful implementation of terms which were agreed upon during the fruitful deliberations between ASUU and the Federal Government of Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu has directed the grant of an exceptional last waiver of the "No Work, No Pay" order on ASUU, which will allow for the previously striking members of ASUU to receive four (4) months of salary accruals out of the eight months of salary which was withheld during the eight-month industrial action undertaken by the union. "The President has directed the grant of the waiver with a mandatory requirement that the Federal Ministry of Education and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment must secure a Document of Understanding (DoU) establishing that this exceptional waiver granted by the President will be the last one to be granted to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and all other Education Sector Unions."

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FROM GEORGE MARTINS, MAKURDI

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he Chief Medical Director of Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Makurdi, Prof Joseph Kortor, has promised a downward review of the medical charges of the centre. Prof Kortor disclosed this on Thursday, during the biennial general meeting of the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN), with the theme: "The Doctor's Health: The Missing Link in Health Care Delivery," in Makurdi. According to him, if the charges were reviewed downward, it would encourage many people to visit the hospital to access healthcare. The CMD pledged to make the centre one of the leading FMCs, which would be dedicated and committed to patient care, training and research. "It is my desire to make the hospital outstanding in order to discourage medical tourism. We will ensure that patients have adequate satisfaction anytime they visit the hospital," Kortor said. He lamented that the centre was far behind her contemporaries, stressing that some of the structures were dilapidated and lacking in some vital equipment. "In six months, I will give the hospital a facelift. I will ensure that the staff are comfortable in order to give their best," he added. In his speech, the State Chairman, MDCAN, Dr. Uche Azuka, lamented that the National Health Insurance Agency (NHIA) did not accord medical doctors adequate protection as they deserved, considering the fact that the health sector was their primary industry. "As you all know, NHIA has not accorded us adequate protection as we deserve considering that this is our primary industry. "Our health coverage by the agency is abysmal and incomparable with what obtains in sister Federal Government institutions like the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), among others," he said. He further commended the CMD for unveiling his vision to them at the meeting, stressing that it was a highly commendable gesture.

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POLITICS

2024 Ondo Gov Election: INEC, Political Parties Begin Preparation BY AYO ESAN

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he Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that the Ondo State Governorship Election will be held on Saturday, November 16, 2024. The National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, INEC, Sam Olumekun, in a statement explained that the release of the time-table and schedule of activities became imperative, considering the fact that the tenure of the Governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu, would end on February 23, 2025. The commission said, as provided in Section 178 (2) of the Nigerian Constitution, that election into the said offices would hold, not earlier than 150 days and not later than 30 days, before the expiration of the tenure of the last holder of the office. It added, “The latest date for Election to the office of Governor of Ondo State is 24th January 2025 adding that similarly, Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act, 2022 requires the Commission to publish Notice for the Election not later than 360 days before the date of the election.” INEC therefore stressed that the Ondo governorship election would hold “on Saturday, November 16, 2024.” It added that party primaries would take place between April 6 and 27, 2024, while the submission of the list of nominated candidates via the online portal would start at 9.00am on April 29, 2024 and close at 6.00pm on May 20, 2024.

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INEC therefore stressed that the Ondo governorship election would hold “on Saturday, November 16, 2024

It noted that the final list of candidates would be published on June 18, 2024, while campaign in public by political parties commences on June 19, 2024 and ends 24 hours prior to Election Day on November 14, 2024. The commission revealed that a detailed time-table and schedule of activities for the election have been uploaded to its website and social media platforms. It has therefore urged the political parties and candidates to note the activities in the time-table for strict compliance. Following the release of the election time-table by the INEC, political parties have started putting their houses in order and setting their machinery in motion

for the forthcoming election. The parties have also started mobilising their members for the all-important election to replace Governor Akeredolu who is rounding up his second and last term in office. Except Ondo experiences a repeat of the 2007 governorship election when former governor Olusegun Mimiko won the election on the platform of a relatively unknown party, the Labour Party (LP) and took over power from the then ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP), the next year’s governorship election will be a two-horse race between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). What makes next year’s governorship election more important for the people of Ondo State is the apprehension that trails the continuous absence of Governor Akeredolu not only from office but also from the state for almost four months now. Akeredolu, who travelled abroad for medical treatment in June this year, had the medical leave extended on doctor’s advice. He returned to the country from Germany after his three months sick leave on September 7, 2023, but instead of returning to Akure, the state capital, he returned to his home in Ibadan. Up till now, the governor has not resumed office. The PDP has even declared him ‘wanted’ as the party said the whereabouts of the governor is unknown. The leaders of the APC and the PDP may have agreed THEWILLNIEWS

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POLITICS

...INEC, Political Parties Begin Preparation in principle that the next governor of the state should come from the Ondo South Senatorial District. This is because Ondo Central and Ondo North have had their own terms of eight years in Government House.

Tinubu may favour Oke, who is also seen as the aspirant being backed by another strong power broker and First lady of the state, Betty-Anyanwu Akeredolu and Babajide, the governor’s son.

Political gladiators in the state have started mobilising for the election starting with their parties’ primary elections.

THEWILL recalls that in 2008, 2012 and 2016, efforts by President Tinubu to install a protégé as governor of the Sunshine State proved abortive.

Intrigue in APC as aspirants await for Akeredolu’s nod

THEWILL gathered that Tinubu, couldn’t achieve his aim despite making a huge investment and he will be desperate to get one of his men in control of Ondo now that he is the president.

In the APC, the present health status of Governor Akeredolu and his recent medical trip abroad has created some vacuum within his party, thereby slowing down some aspirants from coming out fully to declare their interest in the plum job.

Unluckily for Tinubu, though he ‘invested’ heavily in the legal battle that eventually brought former governor, Olusegun Mimiko of the then Labour Party (LP) into office. Tinubu and Mimiko later fell apart. Another factor that may guide the election is the zoning formula, which all the political parties in the state have noted may favour Ondo South. This is likely to aggravate intrigues in the ruling party, in addition to what played out in the last three months during Akeredolu’s absence.

The present situation is that the APC has remained in the forefront in terms of preparation for the forthcoming governorship election in the state. There is little or no activity on the part of the PDP concerning the election except one or two aspirants who just addressed the media on their intention, but with no sign of being ready for the race. THEWILL recalls that when receiving some PDP defectors in Akure recently, the Chairman of the APC in Ondo State, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, boasted that with the defection of hundreds of PDP members to APC, the opposition party has been crippled in the state.

Party stalwarts from Ondo South Senatorial zone, the area that may likely produce the next governor in 2024, if the zoning arrangement is strictly upheld, were principally involved in the intrigue. These stakeholders are from different parts of Ondo South and are said to be nursing ambitions to succeed the governor next year

He said, “We have been managing the party well. Some parties have collapsed because there is disagreement between the chairman and state governors, but since I came on board, more people have been joining the party.

Lull in PDP In the PDP there is little activity on ground towards the coming governorship election.

“We have more or less a one-party system in Ondo State now; we will use the advantage to the fullest. The next election in Ondo State will be a walkover for the APC.”

However, an aspirant, Adeolu Akinwumi, recently addressed a press conference and said that the ruling APC in the state would be chased out in 2024 for its abysmal performance.

Although prominent members of the APC have shown interest in succeeding Akeredolu, majority of them are cautious and waiting for the direction the governor will point to before spending on grassroots campaigns, ahead of the party primaries.

Akinwumi, who is a chieftain of the PDP in Ondo, called on the major opposition party in the state to look towards the Ondo South Senatorial District in the forthcoming governorship election in the state.

Prominent among the names that are interested in the governorship race and therefore, involved in the intrigue for power is the Deputy Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Chief Olusola Oke; Commissioner for Finance, Wale Akinterinwa; the lawmaker-elect for Ondo South, Jimoh Ibrahim; running mate to Akeredolu in the 2012 governorship election, Paul Akintelure; National Vice Chairman, APC South-West zone, Isaac Kekemeke, among others. One of the consequences of this political intrigues and scheming for power is the current travail of the Deputy Governor, Aiyedatiwa who is currently facing impeachment threat from the State House of Assembly.

Akinwumi who said it is the turn of the zone to produce Akeredolu’s successor, noted that Ondo South must have the right of first refusal before other aspirants from other zones show interest in the governorship position. Speaking with THEWILL, the state publicity secretary of the PDP, Mr Kennedy Ikantu Peretei, said the party is preparing silently. “You know we are not in government. It is a matter of strategy and we do not owe the public any apology for keeping our strategy to our chest,” he said.

What is halting his impeachment is the order he got from Akure and Abuja Courts, as well as the intervention by the national leaders of the APC led by its Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje. Aiyedatiwa’s offence, according to some insiders, is his scheming to be acting governor in the absence of the governor and an alleged attempt to hijack the control of government in Governor Akeredolu’s absence. THEWILL recalls that on his return from the medical trip abroad, Governor Akeredolu sacked the entire media crew of the deputy governor, in what is perceived by political analysts as a sign of crack in the relationship between the deputy governor and his principal. This development and the continuous absence of the governor in public space has watered down the struggle for the governorship election coming up next year in the ruling party. THEWILL gathered that most of the aspirants have turned Akeredolu’s Ibadan home to a Mecca of sorts, THEWILLNEWS

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while seeking his nod for their ambition to succeed him. Political analysts and watchers of political developments believe that two personalities will determine who carries the party’s banner in the next election. The personalities are Akeredolu and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Analysts believe that President Tinubu will play a big role in who carries the APC’s flag and who will eventually win next year’s governorship election, bearing in mind that he has made several efforts in the past to have his candidate installed in the state, which has not been successful.

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Although prominent members of the APC have shown interest in succeeding Akeredolu, majority of them are cautious and waiting for the direction the governor will point to before spending on grassroots campaigns, ahead of the party primaries PAGE 11

OCTOBER 22, 2023 T H E W I L L N E W S P A P E R • www.thewillnews.com

POLITICS

Saraki, Mark in Race For PDP Chairmanship BY AYO ESAN

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he race to replace the former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP), Senator Iyorchia Ayu, is taking shape as two prominent leaders of the party and former Senate Presidents, Dr Bukola Saraki and David Mark are said to be lobbying to take over the chairmanship of the party. Abubakar Bukola Saraki was the Senate President from 2015 to 2019. He previously served as Governor of Kwara State between 2003 and 2011 and was elected to the Senate in 2011, under the PDP, representing the Kwara Central Senatorial District and then reelected in 2015 under the APC He left the ruling party, APC and returned to his former party, the PDP, where he became opposition leader, on July 31, 2018. Saraki declared his ambition for the PDP presidential ticket in the 2019 general election, but lost the primaries to Atiku Abubakar. He was subsequently announced as the Director-General of Atiku Abubakar's presidential campaign for the 2019 presidential election, which he lost to former President, Muhammadu Buhari David Mark is a retired BrigadierGeneral. He served as the 12th Senate President from 2007 to 2015. Before then, he was the representative of Benue South Senatorial District in the Senate from 1999 to 2019. Prior to his senatorial career, Mark was the Military Governor of Niger State from 1984 to 1986 and a former Minister of Communication. He is the longest serving president of the Nigerian Senate. He served for three terms. Mark was elected to his position as President of the Senate of Nigeria on June 6, 2007. He ran for reelection to the Senate for Benue South in April 2011 and was elected for a fourth term. David Mark noted that the polls pointed to his decisive victory and called on his opponents to work with him to improve Nigeria. THEWILL recalls that following the suspension of Ayu in March 2023 at the ward level in Benue State, the PDP has been without a substantive Chairman. Umar Ililya Damagum, the party’s Deputy Chairman (North) assumed the role of Acting National Chairman, following Ayu’s suspension, but it is reported that most party leaders, especially Atiku’s supporters, are not comfortable with his leadership. THEWILL recalls that the call for Ayu’s sack after Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, a fellow northerner, had picked the presidential ticket of the party and Ayu’s refusal to step down caused a division within the party which eventually forced the five governors of the party, known as G-5 Governors, to work for the APC candidate and incumbent President, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu in the February 2023 Presidential election. Other PDP Governors who worked for the APC include Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State, Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and Samuel Ortom of Benue State. In a move to replace Ayu, sources within the party said, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and his group have thrown up

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In the viral video on social media, Wike entertained Saraki in his Abuja residence, taking him to the kitchen and displayed his expertise in the preparation of delicacies

Senator David Mark, while the other group have put forward Senator Bukola Saraki. Both Saraki and Mark are from the North Central where Ayu hails from. Social media went abuzz, penultimate Tuesday as Senator Bukola Saraki visited the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Mr Nyesom Wike at his Abuja residence. In the viral video on social media, Wike entertained Saraki in his Abuja residence, taking him to the kitchen and displayed his expertise in the preparation of delicacies. Political analysts and watchers of political developments have insinuated that Saraki’s to Wike is not unconnected with the chairmanship tussle of the PDP, as well as part of ongoing moves to reconcile aggrieved PDP leaders and members.

Both Saraki and Wike contested the PDP presidential primary, which was won by Atiku. Despite his romance with APC and the fact that he is holding the position of FCT Minister under the APC –led Federal Government, Wike has repeatedly said he is still in PDP. Watchers of political developments have however said with the intention of Wike’s group intention to remain in the PDP, they don’t want to be left out of the scheming towards the emergence of a new chairman, hence the recent visit of Saraki to his residence. Sources within the group say it is backing Saraki who is regarded as a bridge builder and who is seen as neutral and one that can be relied upon on as against David Mark who is believed to be loyal to Atiku. On the other hand, Atiku and his group are rooting for the former Senate President, David Mark, to become the next National Chairman of the party. The group supporting the former Vice President expressed dissatisfaction with Damagum’s appointment, as they perceive him to be closely associated with a former governor of Rivers State and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, who is serving in the All Progressives Congress (APC)-dominated Federal Government. They believe that if Mark is appointed as the next Chairman of the party, he has the capacity to deal with renegade party members who are involved in anti-party activities. THEWILL gathered that they however, eventually reconsidered their plans due to concerns about potential negative repercussions. THEWILLNIEWS

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OCTOBER 22, 2023 T H E W I L L N E W S P A P E R • www.thewillnews.com

POLITICS NEWS

L-R: Programme Officer, Widow and Orphans Hope Project (WAOH Project), Mrs Oluwakemi Dairo; former First Lady/ Mother of the Day, Erelu Bisi Fayemi; a beneficiary of the Education Support Scheme (for orphans), Miss Adeyemi; with Ekiti State First Lady, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, during the unveiling of the WAOH PROJECT, an initiative of Ekiti State First Lady, and empowerment of 350 widows and orphans in AdoEkiti on October 19, 2023.

INEC Seeks Closer CACOL Cautions FG on Debt Burden Bamidele Advocates Legislative Measures to Ties With Media Stem Naira Devaluation to Curb Fake News T

AYO ESAN

he Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership, (CACOL), has cautioned the federal government on the huge debt burden being imposed on the country. In a release issued and signed by CACOL’s Director of Administration and Programmes Tola Oresanwo on behalf of the organisation’s Chairman, Mr. Debo Adeniran, he stated, “It was reported by some sections of the media recently that the Federal Government was engaging the World Bank on a fresh $1.5bn loan. To authenticate the report, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, on Monday after the second Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, disclosed to newsmen that the federal government has approved an application for $1.5 billion in financing from the World Bank, even as the government approved another $80million financing from the African Development Bank (AfDB). According to the minister, the funding will be provided through the International Development Association, known for its virtually interest-free loans. On the $80 million financing from the African Development Bank, the minister said the financing was designated for the Ekiti Knowledge Zone Project (EKZ) in Ekiti State. He said EKZ aims to empower young individuals by facilitating their engagement in the knowledge economy and the technology sector. Edun said the project will enable training, employment opportunities, and participation in the ever-growing technological landscape in Nigeria. The report further stated that so far, Nigeria had secured a total of $1.95bn in loans from the World Bank in the first four months of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. The first was the $750m approved on June THEWILLNEWS

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9, 2023, to boost Nigeria’s power sector. The second was $500m to help the country’s drive for women’s empowerment and was approved on June 22, 2023. The third was a $700m loan to enhance adolescent girls’ learning and empowerment, which was approved on September 21, 2023. Reacting to this development, the CACOL Boss enthused that “The decision of the federal government to continue borrowing amidst the rising debt burden already imposed on the country by the past administrations and the seemingly unsustainable nature of the loans has made us break the silence of the day on this serious issue. We want to emphatically say that we expect this administration to dare to be different from past administrations; we expect the president and his cabinet members to think out of the box in finding solutions to the myriads of problems confronting the nation.” “If a country that can afford Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs), allegedly worth N130 million to its lawmakers but still go cap in hand begging Bretton Woods organisations for funds needed to finance its budget, then something is wrong somewhere. If the government must borrow at all, it should not be for servicing recurrent expenditures, but must be targeted on capital projects that would later generate income or grow our gross domestic product (GDP) sporadically.” “We hope the President and his advisers know the implications of these incessant borrowings on our economy, the value of the naira, the enormity of the debt service burden, the current size of our debt, and our very limited capacity to service both domestic and external debts. Those given us loans also have their stringent conditions attached to it which must be met by the government and most often, some of these conditions are not made public, hence imposing the burden on even unborn generations.” THEWILLNEWS

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he Senate Leader, Sen. Opeyemi Bamidele,has urged federal lawmakers to come up with creative legislative frameworks and provide robust oversight support that could guarantee the appreciation and stability of Naira. He made the call in a statement by his Directorate of Media and Public Affairs in Abuja on Friday. The directorate quoted Bamidele to have made the suggestion in a speech he delivered at the ongoing two-day retreat on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms organised for senators by the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) at Ikot Ikpene, Akwa Ibom. Bamidele also recommended regular parleys between federal lawmakers and all members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC). This, he said should serve as measures to integrate the eight-point agenda of President Bola Tinubu with the programmes of the 10th National Assembly. Raising further concerns about the weakness of the Naira, the senate leader called for oversight support for the implementation of responsive fiscal and monetary policies. “This is with a view to rescuing the economy from regression. “Both chambers of the National Assembly are under obligations to stem the recurring decimal of Naira devaluation and promote economic stability. “This entails appropriate legislative framework and oversight support for the implementation of responsive fiscal and monetary policy measures. “Henceforth, developing appropriate legislative frameworks is central to ensuring macroeconomic stability with focus on managing inflation, addressing high interest rates as well as foreign exchange deficit,” he added.

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he Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has called for stronger collaboration with the media in the efforts to combat fake news. The electoral body said in Akwanga, Nasarawa State, that the collaboration would also minimise misinformation and disinformation about the electoral process. INEC made the call through the Chief Press Secretary to its Chairman, Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi, at a two-day capacity workshop for INEC Press Corps. The workshop is focusing on “Ethics, Safety, Practices and Critical Issues Relating to the Kogi, Imo and Bayelsa governorship elections”. Oyekanmi’s presentation was titled “Impact of fake news, misinformation and disinformation on election information: INEC’s experience”. Oyekanmi said that misinformation and fake news were among the major challenges INEC faced while conducting the 2023 general elections. He said that the trend was a threat to democracy and was not limited to the social media alone. “Some conventional mediums also fell for the fake news or misinformation that emanated from the social media,” he recalled. He also recalled how some citizens and social media influencers spread fake news regarding the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System, collection of Permanent Voter Cards and recruitment of staff for INEC. There were also some falsehood related to ethnicity and the elections, he added. He said that many journalists also fell for such fake claims because of sentiments and individual prejudices. “We had many situations where fake news got published without any form of verification. No questions asked about their authenticity,” he fumed. He said that journalists had the responsibility to report facts without taking side on every matter, including election process.

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EDITORIAL

OCTOBER 22, 2023 WWW.THEWILLNEWS.COM

Calling Sheikh Gumi And Co-travellers to Order The FCT, just like Nigeria, belongs to all Nigerians and should not be seen as an enclave exclusively owned by any particular ethnic group. It is sad and unfortunate that some ethnic bigots who have benefited immensely from the many years of lopsided appointments to key national positions in the country are now becoming uncomfortable with the new change that is unfolding

NIGERIA BUREAU: 36AA Remi Fani-Kayode Street, GRA, Ikeja. Lagos, Nigeria. info@thewillnigeria.com / @THEWILLNG, +234 810 345 2286, +234 913 333 3888 EDITOR: Olaolu Olusina @OLUSINA LETTERS/OPINIONS: opinion.letters@thewillnews.com

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ontroversial Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, was in the news lately. The man, who ran himself into trouble for his inglorious contact with bandits and herdsmen terrorising the North-West and North-Central parts of Nigeria, during the tenure of former President Muhammadu Buhari is about to rock the boat once again. His recent outburst in a 14-minute video broadcast on his Facebook page where he described the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, as ''satanic'' and castigated President Bola Tinubu for appointing Christians into top and sensitive security positions in the country, saying Christians and others, whom he also described as ''infidels,'' cannot be trusted. Making some unfounded insinuations and outrageous allegations in the broadcast, Gumi succeeded in whipping up ethnic sentiments and tribal divisions capable of causing disunity and hatred among Nigerians, even as he allegedly threatened President Tinubu of dire consequences if Wike is not removed as FCT Minister. The outburst followed Wike's

hosting of the Israeli Ambassador in Abuja and the minister’s plan to collaborate with Israel on security for the FCT, even as Gumi betrayed his innermost fear of himself and his co-travellers being labelled as terrorists if the security plan eventually comes into effect. “The Minister of the FCT is a Satanic person. I said it before when he was appointed and some people were grumbling. “He has gone and brought the Israeli Ambassador. That’s what someone sent, and I am yet to watch it. But what is confirmed is he said they will collaborate with the Israelis on Abuja’s security issues. “Abuja will now become an extension of Tel Aviv and when they see anyone with a beard like us, they will say it is Bin Laden and we will be killed," Gumi was quoted as saying in the broadcast. Gumi's dangerous outburst and vituperations, as well as his combative stance, especially at this point in time, are highly condemnable as they are capable of fanning the embers of disunity in the country. We therefore call on the controversial cleric to be mindful of the implications of his unwarranted outburst in a secular country like Nigeria.

While we wonder what Gumi's problems and fears are, if truly he is a peaceful religious leader that he portrays himself to be, we call on the authorities concerned to call him to order now before his army of followers and religious fundamentalists start misbehaving and wreaking further havoc in the country. Unfortunately, Gumi seems to have found support for his outburst in other ethnic bigots who feel threatened and uncomfortable with Wike's appointment as FCT Minister as they erroneously believe that the FCT belongs to the North and must be administered by a minister of northern extraction. While their fears are quite unfounded if they choose to be peaceful, we want them to know that their threats will not come to fruition. We want to state categorically that the FCT, just like Nigeria, belongs to all Nigerians and should not be seen as an enclave exclusively owned by any particular ethnic group. It is sad and unfortunate that some ethnic bigots who have benefited immensely from the many years of lopsided appointments to key national positions in the country are now becoming uncomfortable with the new change that is unfolding.

THEWILL NEWSPAPER TEAM Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

Business Editor – Sam Diala

Photo Editor – Peace Udugba

Austyn Ogannah

Copy Editor – Chux Ohai

Head, Graphics – Tosin Yusuph

Editor – Olaolu Olusina

Cartoon Editor – Victor Asowata

Deputy Editor – Amos Esele

Entertainment/Society Editor – Ivory Ukonu

Circulation Manager – Victor Nwokoh

Politics Editor – Ayo Esan

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Guest Art Director – Sunny Hughes

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OPINION

OCTOBER 22, 2023 WWW.THEWILLNEWS.COM

ENSG’s N170 Billion Loan: A demand For Fiscal Responsibility BY FRANK NWEKE II

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ith an alarming internal and external debt profile of approximately N183 Billion, it is baffling to see the Enugu State Government attempt to borrow an additional N170 Billion.

debts incurred were spent on. Roads, hospitals, and schools are in deplorable states. Teachers' salaries and pensions remained unpaid for several months despite the huge sums quoted through the years.

In effect, this administration seeks to open its loan portfolio with an 182.79 per cent increase above the N93 Billion domestic debt accumulated over eight years of the Ifeanyi Ugwanyi Administration. It is also interesting to note that the loan amount exceeds the 2023 total budget presented in December 2022.

While I am not against borrowing for development purposes, it should be consistent with the Open Governance Partnership requirements for transparency and accountability, per the provisions of the Debt Management Office for fiscal responsibility, and with the citizens apprised of the purposes of these facilities.

EVERY SITTING GOVERNMENT IN ENUGU STATE MUST COMMIT TO PROVIDING INFORMATION AND ENSURING TRANSPARENCY IN MANAGING THE STATE’S ACCOUNT. APPROPRIATE MECHANISMS MUST ALSO BE EMPLACED IN PLACE TO TRACK THE DEPLOYMENT OF THESE RESOURCES

This will take our state above the stipulated borrowing limit by the Debt Management Office by 226 per cent and will place Enugu State as the fourth most indebted state in the country. In the past year, I have spoken extensively about the poor fiscal conditions of the state and the need for drastic costcutting measures and strategic prioritisation to pull us out of the economic morass that the previous government had plunged us into. The Ugwanyi administration closed with a domestic debt of N93,197,207,627.52 and an external debt of $120,667,083.51. The prospect of further increasing our debt profile is not in the best interest of our economy.

At present, Enugu State’s debt per capita ratio, which represents how much debt the government owes on behalf of each citizen, stands at N23,907. This additional N170 Billion will double and triple our debt per capita ratio over the next year. This means that the state government will owe an estimated N67,500 on behalf of each citizen, which is a far cry from the zero per cent poverty headcount index promised by this administration. To put this in perspective, the state spent N3,506.84 per capita on education and N1,559.1 per capita on health in 2022. Enugu is currently the 10th poorest state in Nigeria and the second poorest in the Southeast with a poverty rate of 58.13% behind Ebonyi State.

This recent development raises several concerns. According to the provisions of the Debt Management Office, for Domestic Capital Market borrowing, the 36 states and the FCT are to ensure that their total amount of loans outstanding at any particular time, including the proposed loan shall not exceed fifty (50) per cent of the actual Total Revenue for the preceding year. (Investment and Security Act, 2007, Part XV, 223 (1b) quoted in the provisions of the DMO. With Enugu’s reported actual total revenue for 2022 being N128 Billion, the acquisition of a domestic debt of 170 Billion which takes our total debt profile up to approximately N354 Billion will exceed the stipulated limit by 226%. (I must make a side note about the herculean task of downloading the quarterly performance reports from which the total revenue for 2022 was extracted, as it is unavailable anywhere else). The Act also provides that “The DMO shall conduct a Debt Sustainability Analysis to ascertain that the Monthly Debt Service deduction of the State or FCT, including the servicing of the proposed bank loan being contemplated, does not exceed 40% of the Total Monthly Revenue (FAAC and IGR) of the State or FCT for the preceding 12 months, and make a recommendation to the minister as appropriate.” First, the government is in breach of the law and intentionally jeopardising the economic health of the state and ultimately, the welfare of the people. Concerning the stated percentage allowed for debt servicing, what is the viability of maintaining a monthly debt service deduction below 40 per cent of our revenue when the state’s total liabilities are consolidated? If it technically falls below the threshold, how will this reflect on the economy in real terms? Unfortunately, the figures and terms of our indebtedness are not readily available for public evaluation. The state government must shun the practice of opacity in managing the state’s accounts and embrace transparency. Secondly, the financial institutions offering these facilities will also be acting in breach of the law and liable to sanctions as provided. Have Fidelity Bank and Globus Bank calculated the costs? •Mr Nweke II is a former Minister of Information •Continues online at www.www.thewillnews.com

The stagnant economic situation in the past decade begs the question of what the previous

Israeli/Palestinian Conflict: Who is to Blame? BY SUNDAY ONYEMAECHI EZE

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n October 7, the world woke up to a surprised and unprovoked attack on Israeli territory by the Palestinian-led Hamas group, resulting in the death of scores and destruction of properties. Hamas was said to have launched over 5,000 rocket-propelled attacks on Israel lasting several hours. Sources from Aljazeera quoted Mohammed Deif, head of the Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas, as saying, “We announced the start of Operation Al-Aqsa Flood and we announce that the first strike, which targeted enemy positions, airports and military fortifications exceeded 5,000 missiles and shells.” At least 1,200 civilians were reported dead, many wounded, while thirteen out of 150 Israelis held hostage have been killed by Hamas. Israel does not take any affront to its sovereignty or territorial integrity lightly. Therefore, it has swiftly retaliated with blistering aerial attacks on Gaza, preparatory for a ground assault. Israel is angry and nobody knows when this onslaught on Gaza will end. Responding to the unwarranted attacks, Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, vowed that, “Israel will take mighty vengeance against Hamas. This war will take time. It will be difficult.” The attack on Israel was a surprise to the global community after many thought the two neighbours were beginning to learn how to live in peace with each other. Why is it difficult for the world to find a lasting solution to this conflict? The unending Israeli/Palestinian conflict is fuelled by the bias and hypocrisy of the global community. There is an already existing global political alignment on matters related to Israel/Palestine. America has never hidden her support for Israel. The Islamic Republic of Iran has risen up as the big brother of Palestine/Hamas. It is ridiculous that some religious leaders across both Christian and Islamic divides have made this conflict to look like a religious war. Their followers have pitched tents with either side in complete ignorance of the crux of the matter. The crisis is a war to claim territory. It is not based on religion. Land as a resource and historical ancestral affinity to both Israel and Palestine is at the heart of this conflict. Both have laid claims to ancestral ownership of the land. Humanity does not support injustice and subjugation. Therefore, the right of the Palestinian people to life and home is paramount. Israel also needs protection and a place called their own. Hamas should have allowed the sleeping dog to lie, by avoiding any provocative actions that could deepen the already existing animosity and fragile situation. Israel should understand that the generality of the Palestinian people are the underdog and it is not fair to kill a fly with a sledgehammer. Therefore, for calm and normalcy to return, the world should strongly impress it on both states to embrace peace and the United Nations prescribed 1947 two-nation states status. The world should take sides with humanity, stop alignment based on economic or political interest and discard spewing religious bigotry.

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The total population of Israel is 9.364m, equivalent to the population of Kaduna State in Nigeria, occupying a land mass of 22,145 sq. km [1], far less than Adamawa State of Nigeria with 36,917 sq. km [2]. Of the above population, 1.7m are Muslims representing 18 per cent, while Christians are just 185,000 equivalent to 1.9 per cent. Jewish religion adherents make up about 73.6 per cent of the total population.

IT IS RIDICULOUS THAT SOME RELIGIOUS LEADERS ACROSS BOTH CHRISTIAN AND ISLAMIC DIVIDES HAVE MADE THIS CONFLICT TO LOOK LIKE A RELIGIOUS WAR. THEIR FOLLOWERS HAVE PITCHED TENTS WITH EITHER SIDE IN COMPLETE IGNORANCE OF THE CRUX OF THE MATTER

From the above figures, it can be seen that Israeli Muslims outnumber Israeli Christians, while Jewish religious adherents take the lead. The Israeli Defence Force has an army of 169,500 (active personnel). Of this number, only 150 are Christians, while Muslims are 606, and the rest are Jewish Adherents. About 40 per cent of the population of Jerusalem are Palestinians. Therefore, if you think the fight between Israel and Palestine is a Christian/Muslim war, you are dead wrong. As the war rages on, the world should bear in mind that the price of war is stewed with the blood of the innocent. In the end, it is the poor man, woman and children, who bear the brunt. The global politics of war is nothing but a business devoid of morality.

Iran which is allegedly said to sponsor Hamas has an interest in protecting the people, same as America and the rest. Both try to sustain the war with their support and in the end, sell their arms and ammunition to both aggrieved parties, while the common man continues to suffer and die. It is observed that whenever it comes to the Israeli/Palestinian conflict people seem to express an understanding of fairness. Not genuine fairness in the right sense of it, but on account of religious beliefs separated by Christianity and Islam. We have refused to agree that no matter what we believe in, Abraham was the father of both Ishmael and Jacob - the symbols upon which the two religions are founded. Unfortunately, justice, equity and demand for a two-state solution have been swallowed by the opium of the masses and are activated based on the above factors. Who is to blame, Israel or Hamas? Those are the questions. • Eze is a media and development communication specialist

OCTOBER 22, 2023 • VOL . 3 NO. 48 WWW.THEWILLNEWS.COM

NNPC: INDUSTRY EXPERTS FAULT KYARI’S BOGUS CLAIMS

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N10 billion

Nigeria's Tethys Emerges Sole Brand Licensee For Texaco Lubricants / PAGE 34

N6.6tr

Nigeria’s 36 States Generated N6.6tr Revenue in 2022 – / PAGE 35 Report

EDITOR Sam Diala

Policy Reversal on 43 Import Items Compounds Manufacturers’ Woes 100TRN

NIGERIA'S DEBT PROFILE & EXCHANGE RATE 2014-2023(Q2)

(N’trn)

60TRN

20TRN

C

2016

D

2017

E

2018

F

2019

G

2020

E

2021

F

2022

G

2023

F

G

39.56

E

32.92

D

27.0

C

24.38

B

17.3

12

A

87.38

2015

46.25

B

11.2

H

I

J

800N

600N

400N

420

G

387.2

F

380.2

E

360

D

361.2

C

333.7

B

199.6

I

A

Source; DMO f there are winners and losers in the recent policy reversal which restored the 43 import items formerly restricted from the official foreign exchange (forex) window, it is the manufacturing sector. In a twist of events, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on October 15, 2023 announced the readmission of the 43 import items to the official forex window after eight years of exclusion; the CBN had insisted that no reversal should be contemplated. The apex bank in a notice dated October 12, 2023, signed by its Director, Corporate Communications, Dr AbdulMumin Isah, said, “importers of all the 43 items previously restricted by the 2015 circular, TED/FEM/FPC/GEN/01/010 and its addendums, are now allowed to purchase foreign exchange in the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market.” Some of the affected items include rice, cement, margarine, palm kernel, palm oil products, vegetable oils, meat and processed meat products, vegetables and processed vegetable products, poultry, tomatoes/tomato paste, soap and cosmetics, and clothes. The apex bank’s action was received with mixed feelings because it had earlier in June 2023 restated that the 43 noneligible items remained banned from forex By this development, the manufacturing firms which have been operating in an atmosphere of choking macroeconomic headwinds, are set for a more challenging experience. First, the policy will crowd out real manufacturers from the forex market and make forex difficult to access thereby worsening their already challenging situation. Secondly, it will increase the cost of sourcing forex to meet their needs. In view of the devaluation of the naira, manufacturing firms will need more naira to buy dollars in the forex market amid raging inflation and high interest rate. Again, the firms that had commenced domestic production of the items will have their projects hampered. Some operators who spoke to THEWILL said they had already commenced local production of the items. They lamented that the new policy

197.8

0

780

200N 165.15

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2014

40TRN

0

BY SAM DIALA

(N)

A

21.68

O

il and gas experts have faulted the recent declaration by the group managing director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, Mele Kyari, that Nigeria will become a net exporter of petroleum products by 2024. Speaking at the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) Energy and Labour Summit 2023 in Abuja on October 9, Kyari said as a resourcedependent country, Nigeria should not be exporting 100 percent of its crude as it does at present. “Today, we export 100 per cent of our productions, no resourcedependent country does this and that is why we must deliver on our mandate. I don’t want to speak about it; when it is done, you will see it. “So, I don’t want to tell you we are going to revamp our refineries. That is too much of PowerPoint talks. So, it will be done and you will see it. I don’t want to speak about it, we are tired of speaking about it. “But what we must achieve is that this country must be a net exporter of petroleum products and this is within sight,” Kyari said. Industry experts who spoke to THEWILL lampooned the NNPC GMD for making bogus claims without basis for their realisation. They observed that Kyari has become known for such declarations which are at variance with realities and unbecoming of a public officer of his position. An oil and gas expert, Bala Zaka, wondered how the GMD expects to achieve the feat of Nigeria becoming a net exporter of petroleum products in a year’s time when the industry is entangled with various structural and environmental challenges. For a national oil company that is reeling on the throes of oil theft, dormant refineries, dwindling investment, inconsistent policy frameworks, to become a net exporter of petroleum products in 2024 does not add up. “It’s all paperwork. Countless number of such fake promises have been made

EXCH. RATE NAIRA (I&E)

DEBT

80TRN

H

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will also impact severely on the small and medium enterprises (SME) who are engaged in the production value chain. For real, the manufacturing firms came off two national economic recessions in six years between 2015 and 2021. They also faced the excruciating pains of the federal government’s disastrous naira redesign project, the obnoxious 15-month border closure, spiraling inflation, and the government's debtdriven macroeconomic policies. The unprecedented high energy cost amidst deplorable infrastructure and ravaging insecurity has not abated. The firms have been grumbling and protesting. Manufacturers reacts The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has cautioned the government to urgently reverse the decision in order to save the nation from the looming job crisis, insecurity and outright collapse of the nation’s economy. Featuring in a national television programme, the Vice Chairman of Basic Metal, Iron and Steel Products sector of MAN, Mr. Lekan Adewoye, totally condemned the new policy of the CBN stressing that the policy reversal could lead to the collapse of many companies soonest “For items that can be produced in Nigeria, such manufacturers ought to be encouraged. This directive will further kill the manufacturing industry that is already struggling to survive,” Adewoye said. When contacted, the Managing Director/CEO of Erisco Foods Limited, manufacturers of tomato pastes and allied products, Chief Eric Udofia, lamented what he called the partial implementation of forex rules by policymakers. In a note to THEWILL, Chief Udofia condemned the new policy and argued that the CBN ought to have found a way of identifying the genuine manufacturers and supporting them in their business. “I hope that the federal government would find a way to obtain the data of genuine manufacturers in Nigeria with a view to

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...43 Import Items Compounds Manufacturers’ Woes supporting them to expand as that is the only way to lift Nigeria out of the prevailing economic troubles which have lingered for a long time,” Udofia said. Uche Uwaleke, Professor of Capital Market at Nasarawa State University, Keffi, opined that the immediate impact of the policy reversal will be to reduce the premium between the official and the parallel market. “But it will have negative implications for import substitution and local manufacturing efforts. The decision to readmit the 43 items is ill-timed in view of the current forex shortage. The official exchange rate will further rise to meet the parallel market rate,” Prof. Uwaleke said in a note to THEWILL. However, the Director/CEO, Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), Dr Muda Yusuf, on the other hand, hailed the policy reversal which he noted to have contributed to the distortions in the forex market. “We welcome the decision of the CBN to discontinue with the forex exclusion policy on the 43 items. It is a move in the right direction. It is part of the policy normalisation process. The exclusion of the 43 items was one of the several drivers of distortions in the forex market,” Dr Yusuf told THEWILL in a note. Case of palm oil To meet expanding local demand, Nigeria will spend up to $100 million on the importation of palm oil, one of the 43 items, in 2023, going by available data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). The figure is based on the value of the imported commodity in the past two years at an average cost of N25 billion in six months, or N50 billion per year. In its quarterly ‘Foreign Trade in Statistics’ reports, the NBS showed that (crude) palm oil, which falls under the imported agricultural products, originated from the Asian countries of Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, China, India and West Africa Cote d’Ivoire. Before now, importers sourced their forex from the parallel market. Deeper challenges As anticipated, the volatile forex market has become more challenging as the naira faced a rollercoaster ride in the financial markets recently – plunging to a record low of N848.12 per dollar on the Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange Market (NAFEM), formerly I&E window, on the October 12 announcement of the policy reversal. The naira touched the deepest level of N1,170 per dollar at the parallel market on Thursday, October 20. The scenario reflects the harrowing experience of the manufacturing sector since the first six months of the year arising from the devaluation of the naira on June 14, culminating in huge losses. The 2023 interim half-year financial ststements of Nigeria’s manufacturing companies revealed they are battling for breath as they struggled to lift margins.

The 2023 half-year financial statements of these firms proved they are working a tight rope, and literally trudging the valley of shadow of death

...Industry Experts Fault Kyari’s Bogus Claims in the past,” Bala said. Another expert, Ibilola Amao said. “I don’t believe it. Happy to be proved wrong.” An oil service operator, Engr Abraham Mbonu, advised Kyari to stop projecting the national oil company “into bogus, unrealistic future” recalling various declarations of the NNPC’s boss that ended up enriching the vocabulary as a hoax. These include the declaration in May 2023 that NNPCL was ready to commence supply of crude to Dangote Refinery – when the facility was not ready for production. While delivering his address at the Nigeria Oil and Gas Opportunity Fair held at the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) Conference Centre, Bayelsa, with the theme ‘The oil and gas industries: Catalyst and fuel for the industrialisation of Nigeria’.Kyari said NNPC was ready to supply 300,000 barrels of crude oil to the Dangote Refinery to begin operations. “The NNPC saw the strategic interest of doing business, and we will be supplying 300,000 barrels of Nigerian crude to Dangote Refinery from NNPC. That is a marketing opportunity.” Mbonu said, “It has been five months since Kyari told the world that NNPC was ready to begin crude supply to Dangote refinery in July 2023. We are now in October and the crude is yet to flow. He was in the position to know that the target was not realisable.” THEWILL recalls that Kyari, had assured Nigerians of the company’s resolve to complete the rehabilitation of Port Harcourt Refinery by March, 2023, which did not happen. “The promise was to start the fuel plant, which is the 60,000 bpd component of this activity by the last quarter of 2022, but it is not practical. So, we will start it off in the first quarter of 2023, otherwise every other process is going on,” Kyari stated this while giving an update on the Port Harcourt refineries during the ministry of petroleum resources 2022 scorecard in Abuja. Again, the NNPCL had in July 2022 disclosed that Nigeria will no longer import refined petroleum products from mid-2023.This was based on the expected completion of ongoing maintenance of the nation’s refineries and the almost completed Dangote platform. Kyari, who made the disclosure during the weekly ministerial media briefing, also lamented the phenomenon of oil theft bedeviling the society. According to him, Nigeria lost about $10 billion in oil theft as of 2022. Apparently, based on the assurance of Kyari and his team, President Bola Tinubu had assured Nigerians that the Port Harcourt Refinery will resume production in December 2023. Recent reports indicate that this might not be achieved due to some critical issues concerning spares, materials and the communities. On June 1, 2023, Reuters reported that “Nigeria's state owned oil company NNPC will soon end its monopoly on petrol supplies, its chief executive told local television on Thursday, a day after it nearly tripled prices at its fuel stations countrywide. “Mele Kyari told Arise TV that prices were expected to come down once new companies started supplying petrol, bringing more competition. “All we did was to set variable prices depending on our costs by location and knowing full well that NNPC is the single supplier of the market and we are seeing that exit coming very, very quickly. "There will be no monopoly, NNPC will not continue being supplier of this product alone’," Reuters said. *Continues online at www. thewillnews.com

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Heirs Energies Committed to Environmental Development – Elumelu

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he Chairman of Heirs Energies, Tony Elumelu, has said that the newly rebranded firm is totally committed to environmental development from a global standpoint. Elumelu made this disclosure while speaking on the unveiling of the company’s new logo following the announcement of its new corporate identity as Heirs Energies Limited, formerly Heirs Holdings Oil & Gas. Heirs Holdings Oil & Gas had announced a major rebranding, and change in its name to Heirs Energies Limited with a new logo colour scheme, reinforcing the strategy of meeting Africa’s unique energy needs in a sustainable manner. “Heirs Energies signifies our unwavering commitment to environmental responsibility, value creation in Africa, integration across our value chains, while working THEWILLNW

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together with our community towards a shared destiny,” the company said in a statement last week, adding that the rebranding was in line with achieving net zero emissions by 2050. It stated, “Heirs Energies will utilise its extensive expertise, resources, and innovation to lead in transforming the energy landscape while creating a lasting, positive impact on the environment. “Heirs Energies will continue its exploration and production, while leveraging on emerging technologies to cut carbon emissions by eliminating gas flaring, as well as investing in gas utilisation projects to harness the abundant energy sources for improved energy access, that will drive development on the continent.” Elated Elumelu reiterated the company’s passion for innovation, growth, and sustainability in Africa

which the new brand identity represents. He said, “Heirs Energies signifies our unwavering commitment to environmental responsibility, value creation in Africa, integration across our value chains, while working together with our community towards a shared destiny. “We are excited to embark on this transformative journey that will shape the future of the energy sector in Africa.” THEWILL recalls that Heirs Oil & Gas, Africa’s integrated energy company, was awarded the ‘Africa deal of the year 2021’ by Project Finance International (PFI), following its $1.1 billion financing and acquisition of 45% stake in OML 17 in 2021. The award ceremony which took place on May 9, 2022 in London, was a gathering of senior industry leaders to celebrate excellence.

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L-R: Former Chairperson, NGX Regulation Limited, Mrs. Catherine Echeozo; Director, Nigerian Exchange Group ,Mrs. Ojinika Nkechinyelu Olaghere; Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), Mr. Temi Popoola; former Chairperson, NGX Real Estate, Erelu Angela Adebayo; former Group Chairman, NGX Group, Otunba Abimbola Ogunbajo; former President, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Alahji Aliko Dangote, GCON; former President, NSE, Dr. Oba Otundeko, CFR; Group Chairman, Nigerian Exchange Group, Alhaji (Dr.) Umaru Kwairanga; Senator Tokunbo Ogunbanjo and Mr. Oscar N. Onyema, OON,during a condolence visit by Nigerian Exchange Group to Ogunbanjo’s family in Lagos on October 18, 2023.

Nigeria's Tethys Emerges Sole Brand Licensee For Texaco Lubricants

MABISCO Shuts Down Operations, Puts Plant up For Sale

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wners of an indigenous biscuits company in Nigeria, Mayor Biscuits Company Limited (MABISCO), has stated that they have shut down the company and would be selling the multi-million-dollar biscuits plant. It will reinvest the proceeds into a new line of business, it said. This was contained in a statement made available to the media. According to the statement which quoted Segun Matthew, the company’s finance director, “We want to sell MABISCO because we want to concentrate on our area of core competence of business,” adding that “to achieve that we have to divest appropriately” Established in 2016, MABISCO, with the state-of-the-art biscuits manufacturing technologies has a total capacity of 3.5tonnes per hour with access to Shell LNG Gas terminal. The plant has packing machines that have the capacity to do 350 packs per minute, the statement said . Prior to shutting down operations in March 2023, MABISCO has inaugurated over 300 established distributors nationwide in 7 years. the company is situated in Agbara Industrial Zone, Ogun State and it has a land area of 73,732.391 Square metres (sq2m). In 7 years, MABISCO has accumulated 5% market share in the Nigerian biscuits market, with a sustained market presence in the north, west and east of the country. The statement said the plant is open to two sales options that includes selling the plant or sale of the machines.

Nigerian company, Tethys Ltd., has emerged as the sole brand licensee for Texaco lubricants across the country. Speaking at the Chevron-Tethys Texaco Lubricants relaunch on Thursday in Lagos, Mr Jaap Jan Mohlmann, Manager, Distributor and Export Sales Chevron, said the company was happy for its reentrance into the Nigerian market. Mohlmann said the company had been in Nigeria for years and was happy to work with Tethys as the brand licensee for Texaco lubricants in Nigeria. He noted that Texaco is one of the most recognised largest lubricants in the world with integrated supply chain and was happy to be back to the Nigerian market. "We have been in Nigeria for a long time and we have built an extensive network and we know a lot of people but we don't make associations very likely. "And in Chevron we run through a process of selection, interviews and others to make sure the people we work with are working with a similar vision; we have a brand and company to protect and we do underground checks to make sure we have a true collaboration." He assured Nigerians that the products would be affordable and durable stressing that quality would be guaranteed. Mohlmann disclosed that the lubricant products are the best for the Nigerian users because of durability and affordability. On why the company is interested in the Nigerian market, he said the economy cannot be neglected because of its high population. "Nigerian economy is fast growing in Africa despite the challenges, and they drive the quality demand across Africa. So, when you are not in Nigeria, you will not be successful anywhere else. "The demand for high quality product in Nigeria is increasing, the interest of Nigerian people is to progress and become better and that's where we fit in," he said. Also speaking, Mr Habib Bello, the Managing Director, Tethys Ltd., said the company was happy to be the brand licensee. "We feel honoured and we are privileged to be the brand licensee; we are not distributors, we are brand licensee and there's a difference. "The difference is that in the past the kind of relationship we had was relationship where people solely import their products and distribute in the country. "However, ours is different arrangement because of local production; all the raw materials and all packaging materials, the bottles, cartons, labels, everything is sourced locally here. "That means it will reduce our landing cost and make our product more affordable and these are very trying times in the economy and whatever product you want to push out, you must have the empathy of the consumers," Bello said. He said the company was incorporated in June 2020 stressing that it would continue to explore more opportunities in the industry to increase its market share. Bello expressed optimism that the company would be a force to be reckoned with in the industry over the next five years. On what makes the company unique, he said Tethys is a sales and marketing company with a specialise interest in lubricants. "From board of directors down to the executive management to the staff are people that have minimum of 10 years’ experience in lubricants. "So, we understand the market and it gives us a head start in the industry," Bello said. On future plans, he said the top priority of the company in the next five years would be to build trust of customers and consumers and to be reliable. "Aside from trust, another thing is to be reliable that you will deliver on time, reliable that you will consistent in the market.

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New NCC Boss, Maida Commits to New Vision on Digital Economy

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he new Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, has said he would align the Commission’s regulatory focus to achieve the vision of a digital economy under Nigeria’s new government. Maida, who spoke to the Senior Management team of the Commission at the Commission’s Head Office in Abuja Tuesday, said there is a need to ensure that the NCC strategically focuses on ensuring all Nigerians have access to affordable and reliable broadband services. Part of this is to ensure “effective broadband infrastructure diffusion across the length and breadth of Nigeria. The new telecom regulator paid tributes to former chief executives of the Commission for their laudable role in building a resilient telecoms industry. Dr Maida said the pursuit of improved quality of service on the networks will be one of his priorities, as well as supporting the vision of the Federal Government and the Ministry of Communications, Innovations and Digital Economy. “Considering the fact that many people are going more digital and virtual in everything they do, the telecom infrastructure is now under much stress. President Tinubu’s vision emphasises the need to build more robust broadband connectivity that will not only facilitate seamless digital transactions but also serve as the bedrock for e-governance and other socio-economic initiatives,” he said. “As such, we would align with this aspiration to increase broadband penetration to 70 per cent and to cover 90 per cent of the population by 2025. Therefore, we need to build a reliable telecom industry with impressive quality of service (QoS) indicators with quality of experience (QoE) as our watchword and ultimate goal. This also requires us to address a number of issues such as the Right of Way (RoW) challenge, ensuring security of our telecom infrastructure, among others. Efforts must be made to significantly improve service delivery by ensuring the NCC is performancedriven,” he said. *Continues online at www. thewillnews.com

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OCTOBER 22, 2023 T H E W I L L N E W S P A P E R • www.thewillnews.com

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Executive Secretary, Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Engr. Simbi Kesiye Wabote (Middle), with members of the National Executive Committee and NCDMB/ PENGASSAN at 2023 Energy/Labour Summit in Abuja on October 11, 2023.

Nigeria’s 36 States Generated N6.6tr Revenue in 2022 – Report

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he cumulative revenue of the 36 Nigeria states grew by 28.95 per cent from N5.12 trillion in 2021 to N6.6 trillion in 2022, a report has said. BudgIT, a civic advocacy organisation, disclosed this in its 2023 edition State of States report released on Tuesday. The report explained that the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of the 36 states appreciated by 12.98 per cent from N1.61 trillion in 2021 to N1.82 trillion in 2022, denoting a strengthened domestic revenue mobilisation capability. Nonetheless, the report said the IGR to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ratio remained very low at 1.01 per cent. “The increase in IGR did not reflect across the board as 17 states experienced a decline in their IGR from the previous year while 19 states recorded positive growth. “Occasioned by a 49.2 per cent increase in global oil prices, gross federal transfers rose by 35.68 per cent from the previous year to N4.05 trillion, despite a 12.55 per cent drop in crude oil production,” it said. Cumulatively, it said states’ reliance on transfers from the federal government increased from 58.4 per cent in 2021 to 61.45 per cent in 2022. It said that taken apart, at least 70 per cent of the total revenue of 16 states comprised federal transfers, while 32 states depended on transfers from the federal government for at least 50 per cent of their revenue. The report said the viability of states still depends largely on their ability to mobilise revenue internally, primarily through taxes. To do this, it said states will need to implement reforms aimed at strengthening their tax mobilisation capacity, broadening and diversifying their tax base, formalising their informal sector using technology, and establishing a robust consequence management regime to address and deter instances of corruption. According to the report, the total expenditure of the 36 states put together stood at N8.2 trillion, 24.7 per cent more than the N6.58 trillion spent in 2021. “Save for three states Anambra, Cross River and Rivers 33 States had an increase in their total spending in the 2022 fiscal year.” The report added that considering the huge deficit in infrastructure, primary health care, education, and key ease of doing business metrics, several states are concentrating their resources on improving infrastructure and security, improving transparency and accessibility to information, reforming the regulatory environment, and improving health and educational outcomes. Commendably, it said not only did 9 states exceed the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) recommendation of allocating 20 per cent of the annual budget and spending to education, 15 per cent of the total expenditure for 17 states went to education. Regarding health, the report said just two states, Sokoto and Jigawa, surpassed the Abuja Declaration recommendation of earmarking 15 per cent of total expenditure for improvement in healthcare delivery. On a per capita basis, it said while 24 states spent below the national average of N4,499.48 in 2022, Anambra and Abia spent below N1,000 per capita on health. THEWILLNEWS

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Policy Summersault Threatens Cocoa Revolution Drive in Cross River BASSEY ANIEKAN, CALABAR

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major policy change by the Cross River State government is threatening the cocoa revolution drive of the previous administration in the state. This follows the setting up of a new cocoa allocation committee with terms of reference which is at variance with the already executed consent judgement between the cocoa landlord communities and state government. Following about seventeen years arrears owed landlord communities in the state by the state government, they draged the state government to court. In the course of prosecuting the case, two consent judgements from Etung and Ikom High Courts ordered the state government to defray its protracted indebtedness to the landlord communities. Following this judgment, the government enforced the two Consent Judgments through the concerted and properly coordinated actions of the Governor and His Deputy, the Attorney-General, Due Process Office, Auditor-General, Internal Revenue Service, Smartgov Office and Cocoa Development and Control Department, Governor’s Office The state government subsequently approved the payment of the government indebtedness to the cocoa landlord communities through the Smartgov account platform in line with the consent judgement. This was aimed at proactively settling all her past, present and future liabilities and obligations to the Cocoa Landlord Communities thus, permanently prevent delay and the accumulation of rent/royalties. Accordingly, Cross River State Government opted for and approved lease of 6 (six) years CERTAIN, to Smallholder Farmers in line with the executed Agreement dated 13th August, 2021 with the Representatives (Attorneys) of the Landlord Communities.” The precious administration in its wisdom allocated a total of 1,415 hectares of cocoa farmland to farmers leaving out 3,137 hectares to be allocated with the landlord communities having seventy percent allocation. So far, the landlord communities have collected over N37,000,000.00 as rent and royalties realized from the lease in the Smartgov lease arrangement while the state government has earned over N41,000,000.00 correspondingly paid through the automated Smartgov account platform number 1008000100/40237A that splits directly into landlord communities account and the state government, an action that has put an end to the age-long crisis of rent and royalties between landlord communities and the state government. However, this modest achievement aimed at stabilizing the cocoa sector in the state is being threatened as the policy has been shelved. This follows the setting up of a new cocoa allocation committee and a mandate which contravenes the court ordered judgment. *Continues online at www. thewillnews.com

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BUSINESS WEEKLY

Economy: Real Estate Partners Entertainment to Promote Diversification

services in these areas. This in turn improves the overall livability and appeal of these regions and attracts more property development.

BY ‘LANRE ADEYINKA TAIWO

One of the significant knock-on effects of the close relationship between the entertainment industry and real estate is the strengthening of Nigeria's tourism sector. The country has become a destination for tourists who want to experience a vibrant culture, music and film scene. Tourists visiting Nigeria often require accommodation, stimulating the growth of the hospitality sector, including hotels, resorts and short-term rentals. The proximity of these accommodation options to entertainment venues further enhances the overall visitor experience.

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he Nigerian real estate sector is strategically partnering with the entertainment industry to advance economic development.

Often referred to as the 'Giant of Africa', Nigeria is known for its vibrant entertainment industry and fast-growing real estate sector. These two seemingly unrelated sectors have developed a fascinating and mutually beneficial relationship over the years with potential of achieving the much-desired diversification.

The recent GDP report by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed that the real estate services sector recorded a real GDP growth of 1.87 percent in the second quarter of 2023. This is lower than the growth achieved in the second quarter of 2022 by 2.54 per cent points, but higher by 0.17 per cent points relative to Q1 2023. On a quarter-on-quarter basis, the sector grew by -0.57 per cent in the second quarter of 2023.

The advent of technology has played a vital role in bridging the gap between the real estate and entertainment sectors. Online platforms and apps now make it easier for artists to book short-term accommodation, while real estate agents can more easily connect with potential buyers, sellers or tenants. Virtual tours and augmented reality tools also help showcase properties to domestic and international clients, further highlighting the connection between technology, real estate and the entertainment industry.

The synergy between real estate and entertainment industry has pushed developers to think creatively

Entertainment industry boom The Nigerian entertainment industry, particularly Nollywood (Nigerian film players) and the music scene, has seen remarkable growth and enjoyed international recognition in recent years. The global appeal of Nigerian movies, Afrobeat music, and a plethora of talented artists has brought unprecedented attention to the country's cultural exports. Entertainment hubs like Lagos, Abuja and Port

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For example, renowned musicians like Davido and Wizkid along with actors like Genevieve Nnaji have diversified their portfolios by investing in real estate ventures. Their importance and recommendations draw attention to specific real estate projects and locations, which ultimately increases the value of real estate.

Role of technology

It contributed 5.29 per cent to real GDP in Q2 2023, lower than the 5.33 per cent it recorded in the corresponding quarter of 2022. This reflects the general lull in the economy during the period arising from various macroeconomic headwinds.

Q2 2022 by 2.43 per cent points, but lower by 2.93 per cent points when compared with that of the preceding quarter. Quarteron-quarter, growth stood at -33.08 per cent in real terms. “Overall, Art, Entertainment and Recreation contributed 0.21 per cent to real GDP in Q2 2023, relatively the same with the 0.21 per cent recorded in the same quarter of 2022 and lower than the 0.31 per cent recorded in the first quarter of 2023”, the NBS report stated.

Nigerian entertainers, including musicians, actors and comedians, often invest in real estate to secure their wealth and contribute to the growth of the industry. High-profile celebrities have become involved in residential property development, hotel ownership and real estate agencies, further promoting the connection between the two industries.

The synergy between real estate and the entertainment industry has pushed developers to think creatively. Responding to the unique needs of this sector, developers are designing properties to meet the demands of artists, producers and entertainers. These spaces often include state-ofthe-art recording studios, soundproof rooms, and equipment to facilitate video production. Such niche real estate offerings are testament to the adaptability of the real estate industry.

In recent times, operators in the real estate space have announced various initiatives aimed at partnering with key players in the entertainment industry to boost gross domestic product (GDP). Although the results have been slow, there is steady progress among the sectors.

Similarly, in real terms, the entertainment sector grew by 2.54 per cent year-onyear, which was higher than the rate recorded in

Celebrities and real estate

Harcourt have become epicenters of creativity, works of cartoonists, producers and enthusiasts from around the world. The constant influx of people seeking opportunity and experience has greatly increased the demand for housing and commercial space in these cities. Real estate investment

Nigeria's entertainment boom has fueled real estate investment in and around entertainment hubs. Real estate developers are realising the potential of these areas and are building luxury apartments, studios and event venues to meet the needs of the entertainment industry. The demand for real estate in entertainment hotspots has caused real estate values to skyrocket. Investors are eager to capitalise on the rental market, which is robust with frequent visits from professionals and tourists. Some areas in Lagos, for example, have been transformed into designated entertainment districts that offer a unique mix of cultural experiences. With nightclubs, theaters and restaurants, these neighborhoods are revitalizing previously neglected neighborhoods and raising the profile of their properties. As the entertainment industry flourishes, the government and private entities invest in improving infrastructure such as roads, security and public

As the world becomes more environmentally friendly, sustainable real estate development in Nigeria is gaining momentum. Many entertainments center real estate projects are now prioritizing energy efficiency, green building practices and environmentally friendly design. The intersection of sustainability and the entertainment industry reflects a commitment to responsible development that aligns with global trends. Challenges, Opportunities While the symbiotic relationship between real estate and the Nigerian entertainment world has brought many opportunities, it also presents challenges. For example, competition for the best real estate locations has led to skyrocketing property prices, making it difficult for many Nigerians to afford houses in desirable areas. The government and stakeholders must strike a balance to ensure sustainable growth and equitable development. In conclusion, the synergy between real estate and the Nigerian entertainment world is a dynamic and evolving partnership that continues to shape the landscape of the country. Not only has it attracted local and international investment, it has also strengthened the nation's global cultural influence. This mutually beneficial relationship serves as a model for other countries and shows the potential of two seemingly unrelated industries to flourish through collaboration. As both sectors continue to grow and adapt, the future of Nigerian entertainment and real estate will be even more interconnected and promising. •Taiwo, an Estate Valuer, is Managing Partner at Taiwo Taiwo Associates. THEWILLNIEWS

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OCTOBER 22, 2023 T H E W I L L N E W S P A P E R • www.thewillnews.com

SHOTS OF THE WEEK Photo Editor: Peace Udugba [08033050729]

L-R: Technical Advisor of Chartered Institute of Treasury Management (CITM), Mr Akeju Daniel; Registrar/ Chief Executive, CITM, Mr Olumide Adedoyin and representative of Director of Treasury, Federal Capital Territory (FCTA), Mr Musa Lere, during the Induction and Recertification Programme of the Institute in Abuja on October 19, 2023.

L-R: Director, Content Marketing, Moniepoint, Obinna Okerekeocha; Winner BBN All Stars, Ilebaye Odiniya; Moniepoint Arena Games winner, Pere Egbi; Senior VP, Business Loans and Salary Advance, Moniepoint, Tobi Amira and PR Manager, Moniepoint, Bemigho Awala at the Moniepoint BBN Meet and Greet, in Lagos on October 15, 2023.

L-R: Minister of Youth Development (FMYD), Dr Jamila Bio Ibrahim, being received by the Permanent Chief Executive Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Carl Cruz (Right), met with Minister of Communications, Innovation Secretary, FMYD, Alhaji Ismaila Abubakar and other members of staff, as she assumes duty at the and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, to discuss innovative ways to advance the digital economy in Ministry in Abuja on October 16, 2023. Abuja recently.

Minister of State for Education, Dr Yusuf Sununu (5th right) and other participants during the National Director General, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Garba Abari (2nd right), with the Minister of stakeholders workshop on the development of a Roadmap for the Nigerian Education sector (2024- Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris (2nd left) and others, during the Minister 2027) in Abuja on October 19, 2023. visit to NOA Headquarters in Abuja onOctober 17, 2023. THEWILLNEWS

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OCTOBER 22, 2023 WWW.THEWILLNEWS.COM

Godswill Akpabio, Adams Oshiomhole in Supremacy Battle

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ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY EDITOR Ivory Ukonu

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here is an ongoing supremacy battle between the senate president, Godswill Akpabio and Senator Adams Oshiomhole and so far, Akpabio seems to be the one gaining the upper hand, at least for the time being. It all began when both men indicated interest in the senate president seat. Akpabio, who was a returning senator, deployed all the tricks he knew about how the National Assembly works. Coupled with the fact that President Bola Tinubu threw his weight behind his ambition, he easily edged out Oshiomhole and the rest of the candidates. Also, when it was time to share the chairmanship of juicy senate committees, Oshiomhole wanted to chair a particularly juicy committee. Again, Akpabio played a deft move, edged him out and gave him the chairmanship of the

ENITAN BALOGUN

TheSkincare Enthusiast

Oshiomhole Continues on page 41

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ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY

I Haven't Scratched Surface of my Ambition Yet – Enitan Balogun Non conformists dot every profession, and the skincare industry is no exception. Former banker turned certified skincare entrepreneur, weight loss expert and one time publisher of ‘Beauty Overdose' Magazine, Enitan Balogun, the CEO of Lise Beauty range of Cosmetics, tells IVORY UKONU, her story. Excerpts:

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hy did you leave the banking industry for the beauty business? I didn't think I would end up a banker, even though I studied Business Management. I thought that I would spend a few months with Commerce Bank, Manhattan, USA after graduation before finally settling for what I wanted to do, but I ended up spending a little over a year, which was why it seemed like I spent many years there. I didn’t enjoy it one bit. I am not a corporate person or one who likes to wear suits all the time; it’s just not me. I don’t like to be too serious, but I love to do what I enjoy. I don’t like to be stuck in one place. I like to travel, meet people and be creative. Most times, one can’t express all of these in a corporate environment. So, I was miserable, as I couldn’t do those things that I wanted to do, like wear make-up the way I want. My decision to go into the beauty industry was basically because of my creativity. I love art and I love coming up with great ideas as a way to express myself and makeup gave me that opportunity. Along the line, I added skincare and wellness to my brand after getting the required certifications. So how did your journey into the beauty world begin? Well I grew up a tomboy but one that loved to wear lip gloss and even with my tomboy attitude, I was nevertheless drawn to the hair and beauty industry because I had a father who was so keen on beauty. He would always drag me to the spa for facials. Gradually, I became drawn to the beauty industry, working part time with established beauty brands like Fashion Fair and Mac. I became a certified make-up artist in 1999 and a certified skin care expert a few years later. You used to own a make-up brand. What prompted that? After putting in six years, enhancing women’s beauty, I decided it was time to launch my own brand of make-up. It began because most of my clients wanted specific colours that weren’t readily available except when two or three colours were mixed together. Besides, I liked to play with colours. So, I decided to get my own range, customise my colours, get the kind of intensity that I want and have colours I could easily relate to like teal, jad, and turquoise. I started with eye shadows and lip glosses first and after I moved back fully to Nigeria in 2006, I launched the full beauty range of foundation, powder, mascaras, blushers, etc. It is not like now where everyone now owns makeup lines. I was one of the very few pioneers in Nigeria. Back then, we only had to make do with international brands. How was the acceptance, especially when people had a wide range of products to choose from? There was the peculiar challenge of orienting people about the product. Sometimes, I had to do a lot more talking in order to convince people to buy the products. But now, I have reached a stage where I just allow people to believe whatever they want to believe. You can’t really force them to accept what they don’t want. But the products speak for themselves when they are tried. Besides, over the years, they have gotten that level of acceptability that I expect. You also founded a make-up school. Is it still in existence? Not anymore as I have bigger responsibilities to deal with as a skin care therapist and entrepreneur. I started the LISE Pro Beauty School in 2007. I was self-trained as a make-up artist, but I did get some training with a couple of internationally recognised names such as James Vincent and Michael Devallis, the creative director of Mac Cosmetics. I also got some extensive training from Mac during my college days in New York, from Fashion fair, Soline Beauty School and many others. With a mentor like Michael Devallis, I found it expedient to teach the art of make-up and mentor several other make-up artists, rather than keep all that I have learnt over the years to myself. How would you compare Nigerian make-up skills back then to what obtains today? First, it wasn't long after I relocated back home that I discovered that it was no tea party. It isn’t an easy task, coming from another country where techniques are totally different from what others were already doing here. But they are two environments with their own peculiarities and over time, I must say Nigerians have done remarkably well and are at par with international makeup artists because of the evolution of the makeup industry in Nigeria. You also pioneered the make-up association in Nigeria. What inspired it? I wanted a platform besides my school where I could mentor younger make-up artistes and seeing that there wasn't any, I had to take the bull by the horn to actualise my dream to pioneer a make-up association, which was hitherto not in existence before then. You can imagine that at that time, over 15 years ago, Ghana had a make-up association, but we didn’t have one here. It really bothered me. So, I approached a few old hands in the industry who backed out initially. THEWILLNEWS

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They didn’t want to come on board. They said they couldn’t relate on the same level with other make-up artists they had trained and that made me wonder. I mean, if it isn’t a big deal to have talks about make-up tricks with say, the boss of Revlon, why should it be a big deal to be in an association with the people you have trained? I am not a proud person. People tell me I should be proud of what I do, but I see no reason for that. If I don’t do it, someone else will, because it is supposed to be done. I thought about the controversies that would emanate from forming the association, but there has to be an association to move the industry forward. That was how I invested my own money and founded the Professional and Certified Make-up Artists of Nigeria, a proper body to represent the interest of make-up artists, inspire them, empower them, share ideas, problems and generally do some networking. With the growing number of make-up artists in the country, don't you think Nigerians will get to a stage where it will become one too many? Although the industry has evolved tremendously with some gracing international stages, there is never a thing as too much. We don’t have anything yet, believe me. I am part of an association in America that has over 10,000 make-up artists as members and that is just in New York City alone, whereas I can’t count up to that in Nigeria as a whole. How did you become a weight loss expert? I get bored easily and my creative mind never ceases to amaze me. Around 2011, I came across some herbal plants and decided to get into the kitchen and create some mixtures for weight loss and detoxification. Now I have a few wellness products for weight loss and many more, including skin care products. I am a firm believer in taking care of your body from inside and not just outside alone. How did you venture into the skincare business? I got tired of doing make-up and decided to concentrate on my skincare business and spa, LISE Beauty Range of Cosmetics. The way make-up artists are treated in Nigeria is not the way I was taught. They are not even proud of themselves in Nigeria. I just felt like society was a bit tough when it comes to doing make-up for brides. I almost got beat up by a bride’s father.

Balogun just a variety of people that like the brand and it’s been growing ever since. I get calls from all over and it’s been worth it that I’ve been consistent. You were once publisher of a beauty magazine, 'Beauty Overdose'. What did you set out to achieve with the magazine? 'Beauty Overdose' Magazine, BOM, was a quarterly magazine guide to all things beauty, fashion, health and wellness for the young and contemporary woman. I began publishing it in 2009 and officially released the first edition in 2011. In terms of what I set out to achieve for the magazine, at that time, I didn't think I had achieved my goals in terms of putting out knowledge about the beauty industry yet. But I can proudly say it was a dream come true as it did take a while contemplating the down sides of publishing in Nigeria.

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I felt like I wasn’t feeling it anymore. I wasn’t getting the kind of fulfillment I was used to getting before. But I’m glad that I was able to work with 4,000 students. I want to thank those guys that tell me that their skin is full and they want to brighten up before their wedding. That’s how I got into skincare. From doing the bride’s skin to the mother in law and before you know almost all the bridal trains wanted to glow. That was how I moved gradually to skincare. I won’t lie to you, make-up wasn’t bringing money in. In my time, there was no makeup artist that got a property or piece of land. It was so tasking and you are not seeing returns. The passion got me going. But everything is intertwined. We deal with the skin deep. How has it been? It’s the world of social media. If your work is good people are going to find you, regardless of where you are. I’m also into the hair business. I have a lot of products all over the world. I won’t lie to you. I'm proud of what I do. It has panned out really well for me. I have a lot of clients from all over the world. So it’s

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Why did you rest it? I achieved my aim with it. It was an achievement for me, being the first to publish a health and beauty magazine that is of international standard. However, I must say it wasn't an easy venture. I don't like starting something I can't finish otherwise, I probably would have pulled the plug from the beginning. Trying to publish quality prints is like getting a camel to pass through the eye of a needle. While it lasted, I printed my copies abroad because I wanted a certain kind of quality. There were challenges of high cargo rates of bringing the prints into Nigeria and then clearing through customs too. Need I say more? But I looked past these challenges because I was and I am still passionate about what I do. How do you find time to juggle your numerous roles as a beauty, skincare entrepreneur, a mother of three grown up girls and a wife? It isn't easy, but I try to find the time. My strength as a mother is what has significantly shaped me into who I am today. No matter how much I multitask or get exhausted, I never get tired of being a mother to my three beautiful girls. I consider being a mother my greatest achievement in life. Are you fulfilled with all of your numerous ventures? I love being part of everything I do or have done prior to now. I am proud of what I do, no doubt, but believe me, I have not even scratched the surface yet.

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OCTOBER 22, 2023 T H E W I L L N E W S P A P E R • www.thewillnews.com

ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY STORIES BY IVORY UKONU

DAPO ABIODUN IMMORTALISES LATE SON

Continued from page 38

Godswill Akpabio, Adams Oshiomhole in Supremacy Battle

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ix years after the death of his son, Gbemiga, more popularly known as DJ Olu, the Ogun State governor, Dapo Abiodun, has decided to immortalise him. He has instituted a N55 million scholarship award scheme for 550 indigent students in the Remo Federal Constituency of the state in his late son's honour. Aptly named Gbemiga Abiodun Education Scholarship, besides the fact that the educational scholarship is in continuation of the selfless philanthropic acts the late disc jockey exhibited, the governor also chose to use education to immortalise him as he decried the low enrollment of girls in male-dominated trades in technical colleges and vocational centres compared to boys and also lamented that despite the free education policy of his administration, many basic school graduates are hindered from proceeding beyond junior or secondary schools and acquiring tertiary education. While inaugurating the scheme, Governor Abiodun called on the beneficiaries of his memorial foundation to make the best of the scheme to better their lots, saying it was the best way his family would keep the memory of the deceased alive. Abiodun Abiodun said that the scheme would ensure that brilliant students and those whose parents could not afford to educate them, have access respective institutions. to quality education. According to him, the number Gbemiga died on October 7, 2017. Himself and his of beneficiaries will increase to 1,000 in the next 12 friend, Chime Ameachi, were found lifeless in a BMW months, which will be the minimum at any given car parked at an underground garage of an apartment time. building in Banana Island, Ikoyi Lagos. During a search He also promised that the scholarship would be and examination on the car in which their lifeless body extended to other federal constituencies in the was found, the then Lagos State Acting Commissioner state for maximum spread and that selection of of Police, Edgar Imohimi, reportedly recovered beneficiaries will be determined by the State Ministry substances suspected to be drugs from the car but the of Education Science and Technology, using the Cumulative Promotion Examination Result obtainable family immediately debunked the rumour stating that the cause of their son’s death was not in any way drug from the OGSERA platform while the beneficiaries related. for tertiary institutions were recommended by their

Dignitaries Bid Akintola Williams a Final Goodbye

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he life journey of late economic patriarch, Akintola Williams who died on September 11, came to a final end when his remains were laid to rest on Thursday October 19. Earlier in the week, a special valedictory session was held in his honour by the institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, a professional body he led. The ceremony heralding the burial of the first black chartered accountant began on Wednesday October 18 with a special Night of Tributes at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos. The following day, funeral proceedings kicked off with a lying-in-state at his residence. This was followed by a funeral service at MUSON Centre, Lagos which had quite a handful of dignitaries from all walks of life in

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attendance. Proceedings kicked off with a performance by the Muson Choir and Orchestra which was directed by Emeka Nwokedi. Prominent guests at the funeral included Jim Ovia, Chairman of Zenith Bank; Biodun Shobanjo, Chairman, Troyka Holdings Limited; Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun; Pastor Mrs Ifeanyi Adefarasin, wife of Paul Adefarasin of the House On The Rock church; Aliko Dangote, Africa's richest man among others. Pa Williams bade the world goodbye at the age of 104 on September 11, 2023. Described as a man of integrity worthy of emulation by Nigerians. Pa Williams died at the age of 104. He is survived by two sons and grandchildren.

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TINUBU APPOINTS BENJAMINLANIYAN FCT WOMEN AFFAIRS SECRETARY

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ollowing her woeful performance in the 2023 general election where she contested for a seat in the House of Representative on the platform of All Progressives Congress, APC, master of ceremony, Adedayo Benjamin-Laniyi has now joined the legion of praise singers who have bagged varying kinds of compensation from President Bola Tinubu. She has been appointed the Mandate Secretary for the newly created Women Affairs Secretariat of the Federal Capital Territory Administration. Justifying her appointment, the presidency said that Benjamin-Laniyi’s exemplary qualifications and dedication to public service alongside her over 35 years of experience as a communications consultant, social entrepreneur, international mentor, and environmentalist, earned her the appointment. The presidency believes that she will be bringing a wealth of knowledge to her new role and that her appointment will further strengthen the administrative team led by the Federal Capital Territory minister, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, and the Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud. Unarguably, one of the best and most sought-after female comperes in Nigeria, Benjamin-Laniyan is known for her sublime skills as a Master of Ceremony. Even though she resides in Abuja, she has been able to spread her tentacles far and wide such that most high-profile events aren't said to be complete if she isn't the one compering or is a co-compere. No doubt, she has an undeniable spark and zest which she brings to bear in any event she comperes. Besides being actively involved in politics, the 58-year-old who likes to refer to herself as a 'Voice' runs an events management company, Doxa Digital which has since become a motivating force in the capital city of Abuja and beyond. THEWILLNIEWS

Senate Committee on Interior. He took it in his stride and hoped that his ministerial nominee would at least be fixed in a juicy ministry, specifically the petroleum ministry. Unfortunately, his hopes got dashed again as his nominee, Abubakar Momoh got the Youth Ministry. Frustrated and at his wits end, he was forced to approach Tinubu to do something drastic and save him from a looming embarrassment. As the head of the All Progressives Congress, APC in Edo State, it is Oshiomhole's duty to raise money for the gubernatorial election in 2024, if he wants the APC to have a strong hold in the state and to also maintain his political relevance. In this regard, he had hoped to use either his position as senate president, chairman of a juicy senate committee to 'raise' the required funds needed for the election or to raise funds through his lackey, Momoh. Seeing that if he didn't act fast enough, he may as well kiss his dreams goodbye. This was what prompted him to plead with Tinubu for his intervention. And Tinubu didn't disappoint his friend. Momoh was then quickly redeployed to the ministry of Niger Delta Development. But that was only the beginning of Oshiomhole's problems. Even though his lackey heads a juicy ministry, the trio of Akpabio, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, the minister of Federal Capital Territory, FCT and James Ibori, a former governor of Delta State - all of whom are Tinubu's foot soldiers in the south south, ensured that Oshiomhole's man will be nothing but a sitting stooge without powers. They got their own lackeys to occupy sensitive and strategic positions in the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC. Ibori's lackey from Delta State, Chiedu Ebie heads the juicy commission as chairman, so also Abasi Nkono from Akwa Ibom, Akpabio's lackey and Wike's lackey, Boma Iyaye from Rivers State as the Executive Director (Finance and Admin). The primary duty of the trio is to ensure that Oshiomhole doesn't have his way through his own points man, They plan on checkmating him from ever gaining any form of political relevance, enough to cause them worry. The endgame is all about 2027. To finally put a nail on Oshiomhole's political coffin as it were, the Senate, deftly steered by Akpabio, amended its rule to restrict first-time senators from vying for any principal office such as the position of the Senate President and Deputy Senate President. The amendment happened amidst rumours of alleged moves by northern lawmakers allegedly supported by Oshiomhole, to impeach Akpabio. And Oshiomhole is a first time senator. It is really all about 2027. THEWILLNW

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OCTOBER 22, 2023 T H E W I L L N E W S P A P E R • www.thewillnews.com

ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY STORIES BY IVORY UKONU

‘MAMI WATA’ SELECTED AS NIGERIA’S OFFICIAL ENTRY FOR 2024 ACADEMY AWARDS N

igeria has selected award-winning film, 'Mami Wata' as its official entry for the 2024 Academy Awards, a.k.a Oscars, in the International Feature Film (IFF) category. The IFF (formerly Best Foreign Language) award is presented annually by the Academy to a feature-length film produced outside the United States that contains 50 per cent or more non-English dialogue. Written and directed by C.J. Obasi, ‘Mami wata’ is an exploration and creative re-imagination of the mythology of a titular mermaid-deity of West African folklore and one which, among other things, celebrates womanhood. The Nigerian Official Section Committee (NOSC) for the IFF said it chose the film for its relevant theme – multiple generations of women at the forefront of society’s well-being – its unique approach to a story set pre and post-colonial African societies, as well as its technical and artistic excellence. The NOSC voting members include Stephanie Linus, award-winning actress and chairperson of NOSC; Chidia Maduekwe – MD Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC); Victor Okhai, president of Directors’ Guild of Nigeria (DGN); Omotola Jolade-Ekeinde, actress; Andy Amenechi, former president of DGN; Yibo Koko, theatre practitioner; and Izu Ojukwu, writer/director. Others are Adetokunbo ‘DJ Tee’ Odubawo, cinematographer; Emem Isong, writer/producer; Dimeji Ajibola, director; Jude

Okereke Idada, writer/director; Ngozi Okafor, producer/costumier; John Njamah, actor/director; and Meg Otanwa, actress/ polyglot. 'Mami Wata' advances in the Oscars race having received the highest votes from the 14-man committee. The next stage of the film will be determined by the IFF Executive Committee. Shot on location in the Republic of Benin, 'Mami Wata' tells the story of a beach-side community that must interrogate previously held beliefs when a stranger washes up ashore and further threatens its harmony. The film, which had its theatrical releases in Nigeria and other countries, won the Special Jury Award at the Sundance Film Festival 2023 for its vivid black-and-white cinematography. The 96th Oscars will take place on March 10, 2024. The show will broadcast live on ABC and in more than 200 territories worldwide from the Dolby Theatre at Ovation, Hollywood.

Adesua Etomi-Wellington, Jemima Osunde Launch Skin Care Brand N ollywood actresses, removing serum. The core of the Jemima Osunde branding is not just living your and Adesua Etomiskin,but loving yourself and the Wellington, have both slogan is 'because you are a work joined the growing list of of art'. actors venturing into the Adesua said her venturing skin care business. The duo into the skin care business recently launched a skincare was predicated on Africans line that has been two years predominantly facing in the making. The skincare hyperpigmentation problems, brand is named Sanaa. acne scarring and so much more. According to Adesua, Sanaa "These products are not about symbolises the core value bleaching people's skin. We of what they are trying to wanted a product that would achieve. In Swahili, the work over time, not one that word means ‘work of art’ or would change your skin tone. ‘beautiful’ or ‘radiant.’ We were very particular about At the launch of Sanaa that. I wanted my skin to be the Beauty, the partners healthiest version of itself and Osunde & Etomi-Wellington revealed their starting not change it," she said. products, 'Morning Dew' The products are unisex, as men and 'Beam Serum' a hydrating, clarifying and blemish also deserve a healthy glowing skin.

OBASEKI CONFIDENT NOLLYWOOD CAN BECOME NIGERIA’S CASH COW

AGN Unveils On-Screen Magazine

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head of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) International Festival scheduled for Maimi, Florida from November 16 to 18, 2023, prominent Nollywood actors have graced the public presentation of the guild’s online magazine, ‘On-Screen’. The event, which held last weekend in Lagos, had the likes of Osita Iheme and Chinedu Ikedieze, Victor Oswagwu, Kate Henshaw, Segun Arinze and Charles Inojie in attendance. Others include comedianturned-actor, Bovi Ugbomma, Jenefer Eliogu, Ronnie Dikko, Maleke Idowu, Pascaline Alex and Funky Mallam. The actors’ cocktail night and unveiling of the ‘On-Screen Magazine’ is a build-up to the guild’s International Festival. Nollywood actress, Nancy Isime and Joseph Benjamin are hosts of the International Festival. Speaking on the International Festival, AGN president, Emeka Rollas, said the magazine would educate the public on the roles actors play in the industry. “On-screen magazine is for actors; we have just unveiled the cover page and we intend to reveal the leading magazine in Miami. It will be an online publication, which will be published quarterly. “It will be capturing the activities of actors in Nigeria. We are trying to create visual awareness for actors. We know that in recent times, many actors have worked so well, but they have nothing to show for it because we have not been able to work on branding and rebranding our craft nationally and internationally. I don’t want the Nollywood industry to look like that of football in Nigeria,” Rollas said. He also said the festival was organised to promote Nigerian actors and expose them to international casting THEWILLNEWS

Convention Center, 711 N.W 72nd Avenue, Miami Florida, United State. The theme of the three-day festival is ‘The Future of Nollywood Actors in the Global Economy.’ Some of the highlights of the event are red carpet gala and awards, film screenings, panel discussions, city tours, workshops and seminars, where actors, filmmakers and other creative professionals can network and learn from each other, as well as meet and engage with their fans and supporters in the Diaspora. The festival is expected to assemble some of the brightest stars in the Nigerian movie industry, including the official hosts and a lineup of over 70 Nollywood stars.

Rollas agencies. He said that through this, actors would gain access to wellremunerated jobs with international actors, film directors and producers. He noted that the festival would engage casting directors and members of the Script Actors Guild of America in different workshops, and Artificial intelligence (AI) would also be touched on. “The only way the industry will improve the welfare of its members, in terms of reasonable remuneration is when they are involved in productions with massive budgets. “So, we are advocating that we must go and sell ourselves out there. This will create cross-cultural relationships between Nigerian actors and foreign ones. We will continue the festival next year until we can strengthen our body; we need to see actors engage in bigger projects outside here.” The festival will be held at DoubleTree by Hilton Miami Airport and THEWILLNW

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he governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, is confident that the Nigerian film industry can become a cash cow for the country if stakeholders play their cards right and maximise obvious opportunities. He told filmmakers recently that the creative industry is the perfect vehicle for Nigeria's goals of diversifying the economy. The governor noted that Nigeria is the dominant market on a continent whose

share in the entertainment industry is rapidly growing globally. He said organising the industry properly would ensure great benefits for many creators who can export better content than what is currently available. "If we go at this rate, with what is happening in the fossil fuel and hydrocarbon industry, the returns from film will be bigger than oil. Where does that money go to? Not to a few big companies, but to hundreds and millions of participants in the industry," Obaseki said. He said government at all levels has an important role to play by supporting creators and nurturing the industry to become more profitable. The governor made this statement, ahead of the second edition of the Edo State International Film Festival (ESIFF) which is scheduled to take place in Benin City between November 30 and December 2. Over 3,000 films have been submitted from 126 countries, with most of the entries coming from Nigeria, Iran, India, the United States and Brazil. Governor Obaseki said the festival and a planned film village in the capital city show the state's eagerness to compete in the film space. He invited stakeholders to see Edo as a hub for their productions, promising an abundance of local talent and infrastructure.

Jim Iyke Regrets Visits to Late TB Joshua, Others

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ollywood actor, James Ikechukwu Esomugha popularly known as Jim Iyke said that desperation made him seek healing for his mother from now late Temitope Joshua, the founder of Synagogue Church Of All Nations, SCOAN. TB Joshua died on the 5th of June, 2021. Jim revealed that his attendance at the church was only motivated by Esomugha his strong wish for his mother’s recovery, which was fuelled by a sense of desperation at the time. This was in 2013 and the deliverance session was well publicised because of his celebrity status. His mother however, passed away on April 1, 2014. TB Joshua was not the only spiritual leader he

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approached for healing. He claimed to have approached five or six different clergymen seeking healing for his mother’s health. He didn’t mince words about how they exploited him and stole his money while promising him that she would live. “The only thing they could do was attack my personality, attack my integrity, I’ll never be desperate again in my life. Desperation was what took me there, to take my mother there, hoping that a man of God would heal her. “She lives here day and night, I still have conversations with her, she’s never left. When I’m done praying with God she is the next person, I know how many times my mum appeared to me in dreams. If she were to live, twenty TB Joshuas will not stop her”, the actor said. The actor confessed that an evil spirit was tormenting his life during the healing session at the church. He also said he felt very bitter over the deliverance by the

late clergyman. “At that point, truthfully if they told me there would be a cure in hell, I would go,” he said. “I went there with my security, my sister, my personal assistant and when we got there, there was constant insistence that I come to church that day and I said that wasn’t the arrangement. “I said the understanding is that you lay your hands on her and she will get better and they said no, you must come to church. When the whole thing about touching people and they will say stuff started, I found it laughable, to be honest. And I remember my sister pinching me and telling me to stop. “Next thing, the gentleman in question passed and I looked at him and still had the same look of amusement on my face and he touched me. Now I can’t explain what happened within those five minutes. I’m not here to start proffering explanations to spiritual things that are way beyond me. I’m a man and I understand the way a lot of things work but that, I cannot explain, and nobody can suggest anything otherwise.”

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OCTOBER 22, 2023 T H E W I L L N E W S P A P E R • www.thewillnews.com

ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY

Wizkid Sets Bar High With Lavish Party For Late Mum BY IVORY UKONU

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enultimate week, award-winning music star, Ayodeji Balogun, more popularly known as Wizkid, literally held Lagos spell bound with a lavish burial ceremony for his late mother, Madam Julianna Morayo Balogun, who passed away in August. The two-day ceremony, which had all the trappings of opulence and was attended by the high and mighty, is still being talked about, over a week after it ended. Here are titbits about the party:

was seen holding a candle alongside his siblings who tried their best to console him. He said that his mother’s death came as the deepest pain he had ever experienced and an extremely difficult one to bear, adding that it hurt deeply. Mourning his mum, he said, “I have no words to describe the pain that I feel and I know every one of my family members shares this pain with me. I know the pain can’t go away, so I’m not going to say, ‘Take away

The man Ayodeji Balogun That Wizkid has come a long way from his rookie days as a studio ‘rat’ on the streets of Ojuelegba, Surulere, Lagos would be simply putting it mildly. His career trajectory, which has catapulted him to international stardom, is a testament to the power of his dreams to make something for himself through music. From bagging some of the biggest awards locally and internationally to performing on some of the biggest stages around the world and in sold-out concert arenas, he is an inspiration to anyone who dares to dream, work relentlessly and exercise the power of self-belief.

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the pain’, but I know God, in his infinite mercy, will comfort us to go on with life. The pain is profound; it hurts deeply. It is the deepest pain I have ever felt in my life. I am lost, but I pray, and I know God will comfort every one of us.”

The man who loved his mother Wizkid has been able to achieve such great heights in his career through his late mother's guidance and care. He honoured her in her lifetime by becoming great with his music. To truly appreciate her impact in his life and his deep love for her, the singer expressed this through a song, 'Mummy Mi,' which he dedicated to mothers worldwide. The single is off the album titled, 'Ayo.' In the song, Wizkid lauds his mother for the joy she gave to him, promising to spoil her with the finest things in life. The track featured heartfelt praises for his mum who he vowed to shower with life’s finest pleasures. Following her death, he went off social media for weeks to mourn her.

The interment Late Mrs Balogun's funeral service took place on Friday October 12 at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG, City of David parish, Victoria Island, Lagos. Her remains were interred in a private ceremony restricted to the Balogun family and their close friends. It was at the funeral that Wizkid could no longer hold back the tears and he wept like a baby at the thought of never seeing his mum again.

‘Blessed among women’ Wizkid is the only and last male among 12 female siblings. His mother, a Christian, was his Muslim father, Alhaji Muniru Balogun's third wife. His mother sired four children - himself, Yetunde Balogun, Omolara Osunkoya and Olubusayo Balogun. He is the only male child of his parents. B

alogun a nd Elum elu Meet Wizkid's immediate family The superstar has four children from three different women. His first son, Boluwatife, a preteenager is by his first baby mama, Oluwanisola Ogudu. His second son, Ayodeji jnr is by his Guinean-American model baby mama, Binta Diallo. His third son, Zion, is by his current partner and manager, Jada Pollock, while he welcomed his last child, his only daughter, with Jada. While Shola resides in Nigeria with Boluwatife, both of whom attended the ceremonies, Wizkid flew in with Jada and his two children with her. However, Binta was conspicuously absent.

Boluwatife Balogun: A fine young gentleman No doubt, Oluwanisola Ogudu did a good job raising Bolu as a single mother since Wizkid isn't really present in their lives. At the burial ceremony one could tell that Bolu is well brought up as he oozed respect, decorum, empathy, discipline and brotherly love towards his half siblings and the people around. A night of tribute and wake The ceremony to officially bid Mrs Balogun a final goodbye began on Thursday October 12 when the Balogun family held a wake for her at the Balmoral Hall in Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos. During a procession, Wizkid, visibly heartbroken and almost in tears,

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Madam Balogun’s unique resting place The remains of Madam Balogun was ferried to her final resting place in a brown casket made of rich shiny mahogany wood procured from Ebony Funeral Home. The casket was lowered in her own readymade private vault located at Ebony Funeral Home and Private Cemetery, Ikoyi, Lagos. The vault is surrounded by a medium length fence made of marble, polished tiles and granite, befitting the mother of a superstar. There are different types of vaults available at Ebony Funeral Home and Private Cemetery. A basic single vault which is the cheapest costs N12,500,000. This is followed by a basic double vault which costs N22,000,000 and then the classic vault which costs N25,000,000. The most expensive kind of vault available there is the premium vault costing N35,000,000. For anyone who desires a special kind of vault different from the ones listed, the cost is dependent on what the specifications for the special requests are. The above listed cost does not include tombstone classification such as marble slabs, granite slabs, tiling of vault, embossment of picture, alley, picture portrait etc. Any of these services which must be included have prices ranging from N100,000 to N1,300,000. The reception venue The venue of the reception was the Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos, the only venue that could comfortably accommodate the large number of guests that turned up in solidarity for Wizkid. The banquet hall was beautifully transformed with chandeliers, flowers and other decorative ornaments in the party colour, theme.

Madam Julianna's resting place

Shuga Band, KWAM1 in their elements Shuga Band, one of the most sought-after music bands led by THEWILLNIEWS

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ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY Akinloye Tofowomo, a.k.a Akin Shuga, set the ball rolling with a superb performance. Soon after the band’s allotted time was up, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshall went into his elements. Straight from his one week isolation, which culminated into his installation as the Olori Omooba Akile Ijebu, the Fuji maestro thrilled the guests. After a while, he came down from the stage where he was performing and took a seat beside Wizkid while he serenaded him with a special number. Mr Money with the vibes Wizkid showed that he came prepared, cash wise, for the funeral reception of his mother. Quite unlike how Nigerians would normally make it rain with naira notes in different denominations, Wizkid opted to spray cash in bundles of currency notes. While KWAM1 played on stage, Wizkid spent about N2 million cash on him in bundles. After the praise singer took his seat beside Wizkid, the diminutive singer asked his personal assistant to hand over the N5 million with him, in readiness to expend it all on KWAM1. Wizkid made sure to give his two sons present bundles of money to spray as they pleased. The special souvenir Although there were a number of souvenirs shared to party guests, two particular souvenirs stood out. They were skincare products from skincare expert, Fabslimtox by Fabslim Remedies. Apparently, during Madam Juliana's lifetime, she was an ardent user of products from the skincare brand which made her skin glow. So her children requested the owner of the beauty brand to produce bottles of one of her moisturisers, Revive Milk and handmade organic scrub. A bottle of her revive milk costs N58, 000 and Madam Balogun's children requested her to make mini bottles of these two products in hundreds with the deceased photo stamped on them.

likewise some others. Perhaps, they were not invited. Special message from Davido delivered by KWAM1 to Wizkid As earlier mentioned, Davido was unable to attend his colleague's mum's funeral because he was away in America to welcome his twin children with wife, Chioma, he however sent KWAM1 to deliver a heartfelt message on his behalf to Wizkid. And this he did in a manner that warmed the hearts of many, showcasing the profound mutual respect and affection between these two heavyweight Afrobeats artistes. This message was delivered by the messenger via a song.

Wizkid doling out bundles of cash as KWAM1 sings his praise

Wande Coal, Dapo Oyebanjo, a.k.a DBanj, Paul Okoye, Jude Okoye, etc. Some of the big acts were not in the country. David Adeleke, a.k.a Davido, was in America welcoming his twin children. Damini Ogulu aka Burnaboy has been out of the country for months now. Oluwatobiloba Daniel Anidugbe, a.k.a Kizz Daniel, was away on official engagement somewhere in Africa. Augustine Kelechi aka Tekno hasn't been in the country for a while and Daniel Benson is currently on a tour of North America, same also with Temilade Openiyi, a.k.a Tems. However, people like Michael Ajaere, a.k.a Don Jazzy, were in town,

Tiwa Savage, queen of the night The songstress arrived while the party was underway. She was not dressed in any of the several 'aso ebis' that dotted the hall of the party. She was dressed simply but looked ravishing in a bou bou. On sighting her, KWAM1 raised the tempo of his music and began to sing her praises. He called her 'Iyawo Wizzy' (Wizkid's wife) eliciting a shock reaction from her. While trying to embrace Wizkid to comfort him, the host may have attempted to get fresh with her as memories of their time together in the past came flashing back to him, prompting her to quickly knock off his hands on her. Overall, she had a swell time. Other attendees The Nigerian film industry had able representation in Osas Ighodaro and Eniola Badmus, reality stars, Mercy Eke, Kemenni Ekerette, Yeni Kuti, Cecil Hammond, etc.

The man Sunday Are In his 60s, Sunday Are is Wizkid's official manager and right hand man. He supervises Wizkid's shows and engagements, coordinates his affairs and maintains mutual agreements for Starboy Entertainment. He is the CEO of List Entertainment Limited, a promotional and management company based in Lagos. He has been the brain behind so many big shows and big names here in Nigeria and Diaspora. For his loyalty to him over the years, Wizkid gifted him a Toyota Prado SUV about two years ago. Sunday was more or less Wizkid's personal security at his mum's funeral party, ensuring that he was adequately taken care of in all aspects. Tony Elumelu paid his respects The Chairman of United Bank of Africa, UBA and HEIRS Holding, Tony Elumelu, made sure to attend the ceremony with some members of his 'kitchen' cabinet, including Dupe Olusola, MD/CEO Transcorp Hotels Plc, owned by Transnational Corporation where Tony is chairman. Wizkid welcomed him warmly and introduced his three children present, including his partner, to him. Both men nurture a relationship that transcends beyond their business transaction which is having Wizkid as the brand ambassador for UBA. Wizkid and Banky W bury the hatchet One of the early callers at the party was singer, actor and politician, Bankole Wellington, a.k.a Banky W. He sat quietly at a table allocated to him as he beamed with smiles and acknowledged greetings from other guests. It was good to see that both men had buried the hatchet and embraced peace. Wizkid began his journey into stardom on the music platform that Banky W provided him. He was signed to Empire Mates Entertainment, a record label founded by Banky W and his friend, Segun Demuren. By the terms of his contract with EME, Wizkid was supposed to drop five music albums, but he only dropped two and started making moves to sever ties with EME. This naturally caused some animosity and resentment between Wizkid and the label. Banky had to let him go eventually. But Wizkid at that time said he had no money to his name after he made his last album, 'Ojuelegba' with EME. When he left, he set up his own label, Star Boy. He however never showed solidarity to Banky W when he attained major milestones; marriage, having a child, joining politics until he was sighted at the party.

Balogun

Oba Saheed Elegushi lets his hair down The young king who rules over the Elegushi-Ikate kingdom in Lagos State never misses a chance to party hard, particularly if the host is someone very dear to him. He was accompanied to the party by socialite Prince Fuad Oloto. Seated beside Wizkid, the traditional ruler disregarded all royal protocols and danced to KWAM1's music to his heart's desire. He ensured he had a good time before departing late at night. The music industry was not fully represented Only a few of Wizkid's colleagues attended the party. They included THEWILLNEWS

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Adewale yebanjo, Sarumi, O

and Bad mus

lusola Balogun and O

The Wellingto

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FEATURES

How Imam Kashim Imam Almost Became FERMA Chair at 24 BY MICHAEL JIMOH

of Mechanical Engineering from Brighton University in the UK, Imam finished his mandatory national youth corp service in August 2022. With the scents and sounds of Mammie market still fresh on his olive green regulation “kopashion” uniform, he was named board chair of a sensitive post and juicy appointment millions of graduates like him would’ve compulsorily gone on dry fasting for, kept vigil at mountain top prayer sessions for the infinitesimal chance of landing such a lucrative job.

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e made history after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed him chairman of Federal Roads Maintenance Agency in mid-October. Fresh from university without experience, Imam Kashim Imam was only 24 when the unsolicited plum appointment landed on his lap like an apple from above. Citing his youth and inexperience, Nigerians panned the presidential appointment almost immediately leading to withdrawal barely a week after. With the offer, he would have been the luckiest lad in Nigeria today. A first class graduate

CV handy, pounding the pavement for years on end for the average Nigerian graduate postyouth service is part of the experience leading to gainful employment in the public or private sector. A cossetted child, Imam had no such experience. The presidential offer probably got to him in his father’s well-appointed living room in Abuja. Who can blame him? As is very well known, the gods choose those they wish to bestow their favour on and not necessarily who is most qualified. After all, Esau hunted, worked as hard as his donkeys from sunup till sundown but it was idle Jacob who got the blessing from a half-blind Isaac in his dotage. In that sense, you couldn’t really blame Imam for his appointment. Without having to go through the Senate for confirmation, his appointment as FERMA chair was almost a done deal. It was a purely presidential prerogative and if the lot fell on him, whose fault? And that was precisely the point. There was a fault somewhere because soon after the announcement by Ngelale, Nigerians began to question it. Ironically, it was not even the agency he was to helm that began the grumbling which rose to a national murmur. No! It was ordinary Nigerians who called out the president himself for the choice of a 24-year-old to oversee such a sensitive government agency. If the appointment brought smug satisfaction to the immediate family and close friends of Imam, it was not so in the public space. Newspapers ran headlines disapproving of the offer from the get-go, quoting sources from social media platforms. @kennyNuga declared frontally that the “appointment is not worth it. A fresh graduate to oversee the entire FERMA board. Absolutely unworthy.” @Dipo_Bello felt the same way, suggesting that “this doesn’t seem right. We want young for young-appropriate roles. This role seems the type that requires a lot of experience. A board member could be more suited to him” while @ aminsaad mused that “political expediency should not be a factor in making appointments where experience and even expertise could be called upon.”

With the scents and sounds of Mammie market still fresh on his olive green regulation “kopashion” uniform, he was named board chair of a sensitive post and juicy appointment millions of graduates like him would’ve compulsorily gone on dry fasting for, kept vigil at mountain top prayer sessions for the infinitesimal chance of landing such a lucrative job

One can imagine the goodwill calls from family, frenemies, mates and fellow corp members to the appointee soon after the announcement by Ajuri Ngelale, Senior Special Adviser Media and Publicity to PBAT. There would have been plenty of backslapping too, the mandatory congratulatory messages following the job offer from so high above without necessarily soliciting for it. What luck for a 24-year-old!

OCTOBER 22, 2023 WWW.THEWILLNEWS.COM

The rumour following PBAT’s job offer to the lad was that his father campaigned vigorously for a Tinubu presidency. Kashim Senior it was who got propositioned to head FERMA as reward for his labour. (Kashim the elder is the current chairman Board of Trustees of Tertiary Education Fund TETFUND appointed by ex-president Muhammadu Buhari on May 14 2020.)

It was said the father declined Tinubu’s offer, favouring his son instead. Others suggested that First Son Seyi Tinubu also had a direct bearing on the chap’s appointment. Apart from the Kashim’s campaign contribution to BAT’s success in the February presidential polls, Seyi and Imam are close friends on first name terms. Besides, during his campaign, Tinubu pointedly said he would THEWILLNIEWS

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FEATURES

...Imam Almost Became FERMA Chair at 24 co-opt young people into his administration to give them a say and usefulness in government.

and ethnicity. But that, again, has raised hackles for PBAT over his withdrawal of two nominees, one as minister and the other as chairman. Nominated by PBAT as a minister, Dr. Maryam Shetty from Kano state was already awaiting screening at the Senate chambers when news reached her of Mr. President’s withdrawal. The ministerdesignate took it in her stride, declaring that “the sheer joy and pride I felt at my nomination were beyond words. It was a validation of my capabilities, a nod to my vision, and a sign that our great nation was ready to embrace a future where young women like me, even from the most traditional parts of Nigeria, can hold positions of influence and power.”

“Good to see young and vibrant people occupy places of authority,” @adamsaleemm proclaimed, referencing Imam’s appointment. “Despite his inexperience, which raises ethical concerns, he could be the catalyst for the transformation we have longed for.” @aminsaad was not so impressed, commenting on the appointment that “Ferma is all about construction. An experienced civil engineer could make a better choice. True, the Mechanical Engineer could as well marshal, channel knowledge into ensuring the heavy equipment of the agency are in top shape” but “those in authority should try to make the country work by prioritizing expertise and experience. These two are essential commodities to any struggling economy like ours.” For @JALLO71424757, the presidency’s choice for the FERMA job “is an absolutely silly appointment!” In his criticism, @ AtahiruAbdulka1 referenced Imam’s privileged status thusly: “NYSC completed in 2022. Congratulations to you o. But if it’s me and another common Nigerian, they will ask us for 5 to 10 years working experience. I know that God will surely judge us all.” Another writer hinted at Imam’s privilege. “His father is currently the chairman of the board of the TETFUND. That’s not even the issue. Yes, it is good to appoint youths into positions of responsibility. Nonetheless, appointing a fresh graduate with no cognate experience into such a sensitive position is ill-advised. The truth is that Tinubu doesn’t seem to be getting it right with appointments made so far.”

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Appointing and revoking appointments of individuals within days of announcing them, a security analyst suggested, is making a mockery of the Presidency and not the appointees. What it shows is that the person making the appointments know little or nothing about the appointees themselves – their track records, disposition, competence and work experience

Corroborating this square peg in round hole appointments, Ochereome Nnanna in his column in Vanguard of October 18 wrote inter alia. “President Bola Tinubu has continued to ruffle feathers in the polity with the manner of individuals he is bringing into high positions of his government. What I can see running rampant through most of these appointments is that he is still trying to say “thank you” to people, particularly his kinsmen, cronies and Northerners, who helped him to controversially realise his presidential ambition.” While taking Tinubu to task for his presidential proclivity, Nnanna however thumbed up for giving young people a chance to prove themselves in government and then listing youngish and dynamic Nigerians who distinguished themselves in leadership roles in the past. According to the columnist, “the appointment of young people into big political offices should be seen as a positive sign that the Tinubu regime wants to bring in young men and women into his government as he promised during his campaigns. It is also in step with the spirit of the Not-Too-Young-To-Run, NTYTR, Act signed by former President Muhammadu Buhari on May 21, 2018.” Dr. Sam Ikoku, first republic politician and THEWILLNEWS

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member of Action Group was only 34 when he was elected into the Eastern Region House of Assembly, Ochereome wrote. So with Navy Lieutenant Alfred Diete-Spiff, a mere 24 when he became military administrator of Rivers state in 1967, the same age with Imam. Head of state Yakubu Gowon himself was only 31 while Emeka Odumegwu Ojukwu who battled Gowon for a separatist Biafra region was just 34. For Ochereome therefore, it is not so much a question of age that is the problem with recent presidential appointments or nominations but of sacrificing competence on the altar of loyalty

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On PBAT’s revoking her nomination, she also took with equanimity. “Life with its characteristic unpredictability led to the withdrawal of my nomination,” Shetty mused. “To some, this could seem like a setback, but my faith as a devout Muslim guided my understanding. I saw it as the divine will of Allah, who I believe grants power as He wishes when He wishes. His plans are always superior to ours.” But some northerners are not amused with the withdrawals coming very close. A recent headline news from The Whistler an online publication was “From Maryam Shetty to Kashim Imam’ — Northerners Fume Over Tinubu’s Withdrawal Of 24-Year-Old FERMA Chairman Nominee.” The publication even went as far to document the nomination of former Kaduna state governor Nasir el Rufai as a minister only to be dropped by Mr. President. Then Shetty and now Imam. But the newspaper itself neglected to mention that another woman and classmate Mariya Mahmoud was almost immediately nominated to replace Shetty. But the bigger question for some was didn’t the presidency conduct background checks on the nominees before announcing their names? Even if they did not, what about the random security checks by the dozens of intelligence agencies, starting with the DSS, DMI and the Police? Appointing and revoking appointments of individuals within days of announcing them, a security analyst suggested, is making a mockery of the Presidency and not the appointees. What it shows is that the person making the appointments know little or nothing about the appointees themselves – their track records, disposition, competence and work experience. “Our public offices belong to the Nigerian people,” Ochereome submitted. “They do not belong to the person(s) currently occupying them. Our presidents and governors should be properly schooled on this. The prerogative that the Constitution gives them to make appointments also assumes that strong elements of decency, maturity and patriotism are factored into making these choices. Track record of performance, character and probity must be tested before greenhorns are plonked into public office. It is not a toy for toddlers.” PAGE 45

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Rise And Fall of Divine Oduduru BY JUDE OBAFEMI

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jowvokoghene Divine Oduduru was once the bright, young hope of Nigerian athletics. The sprinter burst onto the scene as a teenager, breaking national youth records and winning medals at junior championships. His rapid rise continued as he set new senior national records, claimed NCAA collegiate titles in the United States, and represented Nigeria at the Olympic Games. He was poised to become Nigeria’s next sprint superstar, following in the footsteps of legendary compatriots like Davidson Ezinwa and the late Sunday Uti.

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However, there were also some who recalled warning signs and rumours that had long dogged the sprinter’s rise to success

However, Oduduru’s once promising career now lies in ruins, after he was handed a six-year ban last week for doping offences. It is a spectacular fall from grace for the 27-year-old, who insists he is innocent despite overwhelming evidence linking him to a wider doping ring involving his disgraced teammate, Blessing Okagbare. Many in Nigerian athletics circles reacted with shock and disappointment at the news. However, there were also some who recalled warning signs and rumours that had long dogged the sprinter’s rise to success.

Oduduru grew up in Ughelli, a small town in Nigeria’s Delta State. He was introduced to athletics by a local coach, David Etsebiminor, who recognised his natural running talent, which he regularly displayed while racing friends on the streets. His big breakthrough came when he won sprint doubles at the Nigerian youth and junior championships, setting new national age-group records in the process. More junior titles followed at continental level, marking Oduduru out as a future star. He had success as a youth sprinter for Nigeria, winning gold in the 100m and 200m at the 2013 African Youth Championships. He made the final of the 200m at the 2013 World Youth Championships and won gold in that event at the 2013 African Junior Championships. He defended his 200m title and also won the 100m and 4x100m relay gold at the 2015 African Junior Championships. In his early senior career he won silver in the 200m at the 2014 World Junior Championships and led Nigeria's 4x100m relay team at the 2014 Commonwealth Games. Injuries sometimes kept him from defending his titles but he bounced back to win silver in the 200m at the 2015 All-Africa Games. Yet, it was his move to the United States on a college scholarship in 2017 that really accelerated his development. At Texas Tech University, under the expert guidance of veteran NCAA coach Wes Kittley, Oduduru went from prospect to champion. In his first NCAA outdoor season, he finished

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SPORTSLIVE

...Fall of Divine Oduduru second in the 100m and won the 200m final. The following year, he went one better by claiming the sprint double at the NCAA Indoor Championships in record-breaking times. Outdoors, he retained his 200m title and broke the revered 20-second barrier. Another NCAA 200m gold came in 2019, as Oduduru clocked a blistering 19.73 seconds - the fastest ever time run by a Nigerian. He also took home the 100m title in 9.86, the fastest time in the world at that time in the sprint season.

The same evidence trail has now caught up with her protege, Oduduru. Phone records show Okagbare requesting injections and oral medicines from Lira for Oduduru. Photographs on Okagbare’s phone revealed packages containing vials of human growth hormone and insulin growth factor 1 that were sent on for delivery to Oduduru.

Back home, he was ratified as national 100m and 200m record holder. With his chiselled physique, broad smile and humble demeanour, Oduduru was both a sponsor’s dream and an icon for Nigeria’s aspirational youth. His NCAA success brought prestigious individual honours like the Bowerman Award nomination for the best collegiate athlete in the United States.

When investigators from the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) raided Oduduru’s Florida apartment last August they found two boxes labelled Somatropin, identified as human growth hormone. Also discovered were three vials of insulin growth factor and erythropoietin. Oduduru denied opening or using any prohibited substances but conveniently claimed he had disposed of other packages sent to him by Lira.

With such rapid progress, an Olympic medal seemed within reach. However, behind Oduduru’s rise, shadows were gathering. At the 2018 Commonwealth Games, his name was linked by media to a Nigerian team hit by doping violations that eventually saw eight athletes banned. Oduduru denied any wrongdoing and no evidence implicated him at the time.

This implausible tale has now ended Oduduru’s career. His six-year ban for using and possessing banned substances was announced last week by the AIU, who presented overwhelming evidence of his doping with the help of his now infamous teammate Okagbare.

Okagbare

The following year, documents leaked during the Russian doping scandal showed Oduduru had recorded suspicious blood values in 2017, prior to his breakthrough NCAA season. His results did not trigger an anti-doping rule violation but they did raise eyebrows. Oduduru labelled the allegations a “distraction” and said he was committed to clean sport. His denials were backed by former chairman of the Delta State Athletics Association, Solomon Ogba, who cautioned against “casting aspersions.” With no proof of wrongdoing, Oduduru’s career continued on an upward trajectory.

In a flat statement, Oduduru continued to deny any wrongdoing and signalled his intention to appeal. It is unlikely that he will produce evidence to overturn a ban that rules him out until just before his 33rd birthday. The AIU concluded his violations were aggravated by being part of a wider doping ring orchestrated by Okagbare and Lira. They also noted his complete lack of remorse for behaviour that has irrevocably damaged the reputation of Nigerian athletics.

Behind the scenes, the gentle giant from Delta State had forged a close bond with his compatriot Blessing Okagbare – the record-breaking sprint star and senior figure in Nigerian athletics. Okagbare acted as a mentor to Oduduru, then an impressionable 21-year old navigating a path on foreign soil.

In hindsight, it was a fateful relationship. Last February, Okagbare was banned for 11 years for doping violations following an investigation triggered when US police charged her therapist Eric Lira with supplying performance enhancing drugs to athletes, including at the Tokyo Olympics. Okagbare had denied any wrongdoing but messages and financial records revealed her deep involvement with Lira in obtaining and using prohibited substances over several years.

Continued from Back Page

Still on Government's Wasteful Spending And Insensitivity to Struggling Nigerians

Most importantly, graft remains the elephant in the room when discussing public sector waste and inefficiency. The MDAs and parastatals are cesspits of corruption manned by rapacious officials. Budget padding, ghost workers, contract inflation, illicit payments and bribes are standard fare. Public office is for primitive accumulation in Nigeria. The anticorruption agencies seem unable to buck this culture as only slaps on the wrist are given to culprits. Until these crass causes are addressed, the haemorrhage will continue. Taming this terrible tendency requires urgent structural shifts. Our budgets must be supervised and overseen with a fine-toothed comb to ensure they reflect fiscal prudence and strategic priorities. Profligate presidential/executive votes and constituency projects should be scrapped. We must adopt a medium-term expenditure framework that links budgets to the government's socio-economic objectives. The constitution and fiscal responsibility law must be amended to guarantee judicious use of public resources. The National Assembly should be compelled to follow international good practices like programmebased budgeting with measurable milestones to keep

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track of progress. Public financial management must be strengthened by full deployment of IPPIS, TSA and other frameworks to check waste. Oversight institutions need more resources and independence to play their roles robustly. The anti-corruption drive needs to be escalated from rhetorical threats to demonstrable deterrence. Political interference should end and all indicted officials must face prosecution. Asset tracing, confiscation and recovery needs to be intensified. Systems enabling corruption like convoluted waivers, subsidies and tax credits should be abolished. Nigeria bleeds profusely from fiscal indiscipline; it is time to stanch the haemorrhage. The culture of waste is an existential threat to Nigeria's economic viability. If not curtailed, we face the stark prospect of debt unsustainability. With debt servicing already consuming practically all federal revenues, even a minor external shock could tip us over the brink into bankruptcy. The time has come to cure this addiction to profligacy which has drained development and spawned despondency. We deserve responsible leadership that spends prudently and spurs productivity, not predators who plunder the commonwealth.

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Oduduru’s fall from grace is a lesson to all athletes that cheating eventually gets found out at the highest level. It is also a sad episode for Nigeria, where he was a rare talent capable of rekindling memories of sprinting glory on the track. His family and those early mentors who set Oduduru on the path to success must now wonder if avoiding the fateful partnership with Okagbare might have seen Oduduru fulfil his potential without resorting to the menace of doping. There will also be anger and soul-searching within Nigerian athletics circles. Oduduru is not the first high profile athlete from the country to recently test positive but he is by far the most successful male track star to be banned. Questions will be asked about why warning signs were not heeded earlier and what more can be done to prevent doping. Oduduru’s case is strengthened by evidence uncovered in criminal proceedings against his supplier Eric Lira in the United States. The extra-territorial reach of American law enforcers continues to prove crucial in tackling the scourge of doping in global sport. Their vigilance exposed Okagbare and has now ended the career of her young sidekick Oduduru. With his ban now confirmed, Oduduru’s achievements and record will be questionable. The NCAA titles, national records and Olympic appearances will be considered to have been attained dubiously. Once the heir apparent to Nigerian sprinting royalty, he will now serve as a cautionary tale for those dreaming of following in his footsteps. The question now is whether Oduduru can salvage his reputation after this spectacular fall from grace. Perhaps, but only if he shows true remorse and reveals all details of his doping past to the relevant authorities. Until then, he will remain Nigeria’s Icarus of the track - a prodigious talent who flew too close to the sun before crashing down in the most saddening fashion possible.

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Still on Government's Wasteful Spending And Insensitivity to Struggling Nigerians

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he hallmarks of good governance are prudence, restraint and responsibility in managing public finances. However, the Nigerian Government has shown an unrestrained propensity for prodigality and wastefulness in its spending decisions. As Nigeria grapples with debilitating debt, depleted reserves, double-digit inflation and excruciating economic hardship for its citizens, governments continue to fritter away scarce resources on frivolous, inappropriate and outrageous luxuries. This spendthrift culture pervades all arms and the tiers of government, but it is most egregious in the banal overindulgence of the Executive and the National Assembly for selfish use of public funds. Last week, a government memo revealed that the presidency spent approximately $507,000 on President Bola Tinubu's accommodation during the 78th United Nations General Assembly. The memo specified that around $422,000 went toward rooms for the President and his aides at the luxury St. Regis Hotel in New York from September 16 to 23, with the remaining $84,000 (20 per cent of the total) designated for incidentals. Yet, the federal and state governments, day after day, admonish Nigerians to make sacrifices as the economic reality continues to bite and send more into distress. As though attempting to outshine the Federal Government on frivolity, the House of Representatives of about 360 members received N160 million Sports Utility Vehicles each, totaling N57.6 billion, as personal gifts. In their defence, the House spokesperson, Akin Rotimi, attempted to clarify by explaining that these vehicles were not personal gifts but property of the National Assembly during the members' four-year tenure. These vehicles, Rotimi said, were intended as work tools to enable highly mobile representatives to access remote locations and fulfil their duties effectively. The emphasis was that the SUVs were needed as functional and reliable off-road vehicles. These vehicles usually become the property of the legislators at the end of their term. This has been the practice from my findings. Were Nigeria blooming with economic prosperity and financial stability, not a few Nigerians could have bothered about either of these incredulous wastage of taxpayers' money. This is only worsened by the fact that budgetary allocations to the Executive arm and the National Assembly also do not take the difficult economic status quo into account. The proposed 2023 budget exemplifies the fiscal recklessness and tone-deafness of our elected leaders. Out of N13 trillion in projected federal expenditure, N3.8 trillion is earmarked for debt servicing from debts incurred to encourage this habit of indulging the excesses of the Executive and the National Assembly. That N3.8trn exceeds the combined allocations to critical sectors like health, education, roads and agriculture. Debt servicing alone consumes about 96

percent of projected federal revenues of N4 trillion. This shows that almost all of Nigeria's earnings will go towards paying interests on loans instead of funding development. The Presidency and the House of Representatives exemplifies the tragic irony of Nigerian public administration: the more the agencies and committees purportedly aimed at cutting waste and improving efficiency, the more wasteful the government becomes. The biggest drain of scarce resources is the monstrosity of recurrent expenditure, which is exacerbated by the duplications in the budget as well as appropriations for wasteful and needless projects/ ventures. The National Assembly is exacerbating the debilitating waste with its narcissistic and extortionate appetite. The lawmakers will gorge billions in statutory transfers and their constituency projects. They also allocated several billions for renovating their office building, which has gobbled billions of naira over the years with no appreciable facelift. Their legislative aides are due some extra billions, just as office supplies and transport will gulp even more. This is barefaced banditry.

The billions allocated to pleasure the palates of the privileged in the midst of so much misery and lack among citizens smacks of irresponsibility and a disconnect with reality on the streets. The State House will spend billions on meals, travel and welfare in 2023 besides the billions allocated to feed and pamper embodiments of gluttony like the OSGF and HoS. Travel became the largest component of State House expenditure since 2015 junketing took precedence over governance. In 2023, N2.5 billion is proposed for foreign and local trips whose value to citizens has been viciously pilloried by critics. These spendthrift tendencies betray not just fiscal recklessness but also policy heartlessness. Critical public goods and services are being starved while leaders binge on wasteful subsidies and perks. Health care, education and citizen welfare continue to take the back seat in the grand scheme of things. Nigeria cannot compete globally with such a reality. This is a recipe for permanent underdevelopment. The opportunity costs of this waste are actually much higher when we consider the loss to infrastructure deficit which erodes productivity and competitiveness. Nigeria loses $10 billion annually to poor power supply as businesses burn diesel. We lose $14 billion annually to flooding which destroys roads, farms and houses due to poor drainage. These losses dwarf the paltry sums allocated to fix them. Without rectifying these infrastructural bottlenecks strangling productivity, growth will remain stunted. Three factors drive this wasteful culture: institutional decay, regulatory failure and rampant corruption. Oversight institutions lack teeth to bite despite chronic waste exposure. The Fiscal Responsibility Commission and Bureau of Public Procurement are effete bulldogs. Audited reports of MDAs are perpetually tardy, so culprits escape sanctions. The National Assembly, despite its constitutional oversight role, connives and condones rather than condemn the excesses of the Executive. Its own budgetary process falls below minimum standards of integrity, with lawmakers reviewing and passing their own budget proposals. Secondly, big gaps remain in the public financial management and procurement frameworks despite recent reforms. The Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007 which should guide prudent spending is observed in breach. Budgets still lack credibility. Regulations like the Public Procurement Act 2007 are not fully enforced to ensure value for money. MDAs ignore budgets and procurement rules with impunity. Fraud thrives on poor record keeping, accounting and auditing. Faulty frameworks enable fiscal criminality. Continues on Page 47

The billions allocated to pleasure the palates of the privileged in the midst of so much misery and lack among citizens smacks of irresponsibility and a disconnect with reality on the streets PAGE 48

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