FRIDAY 2ND JANUARY 2026 by THISDAY Newspapers Ltd

Netanyahu: Israel Working on Agenda to Support Persecuted Christians in Nigeria Chiemelie Ezeobi Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said Israel is

working on an agenda to support beleaguered and persecuted Christian communities in Nigeria.

Netanyahu spoke on Friday during a meeting with evangelical community leaders in Florida, United States, touting

Israel as the only country in the world capable of protecting Christians. The prime minister’s

remarks came a day after his meeting with US President Donald Trump, who had announced air strikes in

Nigeria on Christmas Day in fulfilment of his military Continued on page 9

N’Assembly Directs Release of Signed Tax Bills to Quell Gazetting Controversy... Page 10 Friday 2 January, 2026 Vol 30. No 11226. Price: N400

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FG Unveils 2026 Economic Growth Agenda, Set to Prioritise Jobs, Investments... Page 6

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026 • T H I S D AY

THISDAY • FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026

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

NEWS

GOODWILL VISIT BY LAGOS FIRST LADY TO WELCOME FIRST BABY OF 2026...

L-R: Chairman, Ibeju-Lekki LGA, Hon. Abdullahi Olusesan Olowa; Parents of the first baby of the year, Mr. and Mrs. Oludare; First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke SanwoOlu; with baby Oludare; Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Dayo Lajide; Wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat; Special Adviser to Governor on Health, Dr. (Mrs.) Kemi Ogunyemi; and Member representing Kosofe Constituency at the Federal House of Representative, Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, at the Goodwill Visit by the Lagos First Lady to welcome the First Baby of the year 2026 at Ibeju-Lekki General Hospital, Lagos ... yesterday

FG: Nigeria Ready, Equipped for AfCFTA Market, Lists Milestones James Emejo in Abuja

market. The report stated, “The African Federal Ministry of Industry Continental Free Trade Area Trade and Investment (FMITI) (AfCFTA) Agreement is the said it had taken concrete steps apotheosis of Africa’s journey to ensure Nigeria’s substantive of trade-led economic integrareadiness to trade within Africa tion. Through the progressive under the preferential terms of the elimination of tariffs, removal African Continental Free Trade of other barriers, and regulatory cooperation among AfCFTA Area (AfCFTA) Agreement. The ministry stated that the State Parties, the continental country had fulfilled key obliga- trade agreement establishes tions under the agreement and an economic arrangement that protocols on trade in goods and ensures African producers, services, as well as digital trade investors, traders and workers by gazetting the relevant legal can profitably convert opportunity instruments. It disclosed this in and effort to prosperity. “The key argument for the a publication, “Nigeria AfCFTA AfCFTA is simply that Africa Achievements Report 2025.” Minister of Industry, Trade retains more value when she and Investment, Dr. Jumoke trades with herself. By implication, Oduwole, said the ministry had Africa’s economic development taken concrete steps to position ambitions are inseparable from the and equip Nigerian businesses to ambition of the AfCFTA market.” It said, “Nigeria is Africa’s succeed in the AfCFTA market. Oduwole said Nigerian champion of trade-led regional businesses and products could integration, the birthplace of a benefit from better and prefer- significant number of the anchor ential treatment in the AfCFTA continental instruments that market, adding that FMITI has underpin the AfCFTA Agreement. “These include the Lagos Plan undertaken strategic initiatives to position and equip Nigerian of Action (1980) and the Treaty businesses to succeed in the Establishing the African Economic

Community (1991), also known as the Abuja Treaty. It was also in Nigeria that the negotiations for the AfCFTA Agreement were concluded in 2017.” The report said, “Nigeria signed the AfCFTA Agreement in 2019 and ratified it in 2020. In 2025, the Federal Government of Nigeria through the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and

Investment (FMITI) reinvigorated implementation of the AfCFTA Agreement. “FMITI led Nigeria to many important ‘firsts’ Nigeria is the first AfCFTA State Party to undertake a review of AfCFTA implementation at the 5th year mark, to ratify the AfCFTA Protocol on Digital Trade, and to establish a dedicated AfCFTA

air cargo exports corridor. “In addition, FMITI has taken concrete steps to position and equip Nigerian businesses to succeed in the AfCFTA market.” The report also presented renewed efforts and successes on AfCFTA implementation in 2025 that contributed to a thriving and prosperous one African market. It pointed out, “In July 2025,

New Tax Laws: ADC Youth Wing Issues 7-Day Warning,Vows Nationwide Protests Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) Youth Wing has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the federal government over what it described as “controversial and unconstitutional provisions” in the 2025 Tax Laws recently assented to by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Speaking during a press conference in Kano, its National Youth Leader, Comrade Balarabe Rufai,

accused the federal government and the national assembly of undermining democratic processes and imposing what it termed a “fiscal extraction regime” on Nigerians, particularly youths. The group warned that failure to address its demands within the stipulated period would trigger nationwide actions, including a taxpayer strike and mass youth protests targeting revenue-generating institutions. Rufai said the new tax

framework ignored the economic realities of young Nigerians, who make up a significant portion of the population, while allegedly protecting the interests of the political elite and foreign partners. According to him, members of the ADC Youth Wing marched to the national assembly on December 23, 2025, where they submitted a formal petition outlining their grievances over the tax laws.

In New Year Address, Zelensky Says Peace Deal with Russia 90% Ready Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said a peace agreement to end the war with Russia is “90 per cent ready”, in a New Year address that largely focused on resistance to Moscow’s full-scale invasion. Zelensky said the remaining 10 per cent of the agreement to end nearly four years of conflict would “determine the fate of peace, the fate of Ukraine and Europe”, BBC reported.

But in his own New Year speech, Russian President Vladimir Putin told his troops that “we believe in you and our victory”. Earlier on Wednesday, Moscow also released what it said was evidence of Ukraine using drones to target Putin’s private home on Lake Valdai in north-west Russia, allegations Kyiv has strenuously denied. It included a map allegedly showing that the drones were launched from the Sumy and Chernihiv regions of Ukraine and

Nigeria became the first AfCFTA State Party to conclude and publish a review of AfCFTA implementation at the 5th year mark, as mandated by Article 28 of the AfCFTA Agreement. “This review is an honest and objective self-reflection to indicate frictions, challenges, and successes that has informed key actions by FMITI and the AfCFTA CCC.

a video of a downed drone lying in snowy woodland. A serviceman standing next to the wreckage claimed it was a Ukrainian Chaklun drone. The BBC said it hadn’t been able to verify the footage, and it is not possible to locate where it was shot. Russia would review its position on the ongoing peace negotiations as a result of the alleged incident, the Kremlin said. However, Kaja Kallas, the EU’s top diplomat, on Wednesday described the Russian claims as a “deliberate distraction”

and an attempt to derail the peace process. In his 20-minute address to the nation, Zelensky said that Ukraine did not want peace “at any cost”, adding that “we want the end of the war – not the end of Ukraine”. He said that a Ukrainian withdrawal from the eastern Donbas region means “everything will be over”, a reference to Russia’s maximalist demand that Moscow secure full control of the industrial area in any peace agreement. Moscow currently controls

about 75 per cent of the Donetsk region, and some 99 per cent of the neighbouring Luhansk. The two regions are known collectively as Donbas. Its fate has been a major obstacle throughout negotiations, with Russia consistently unwilling to compromise on its aim to seize full control of Donbas. In the address, Zelensky thanked leaders that have supported Ukraine, but said that “intentions must become security guarantees, and therefore - be ratified”.

He claimed that despite the seriousness of the issues raised, the national assembly had failed to respond, a development he described as “arrogant silence” and an abdication of legislative responsibility. The group alleged that a forensic review of the 2025 tax framework revealed what it called three major “betrayals.” “One of the allegations is that certain provisions, including Section 41(8), which requires taxpayers to deposit 20 per cent of disputed tax assessments before filing appeals, and Section 60, which allegedly grants arrest powers to tax officers, were inserted into the law without proper legislative approval.” “These clauses were not subjected to plenary debate or voting. This is black-market legislation and a direct assault on constitutional governance,” he said. The youth wing also raised concerns over a memorandum of understanding reportedly signed on December 10, 2025, between the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and France’s Direction Générale des Finances Publiques (DGFIP).

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026 • THISDAY

NEWS

NEW YEAR SPECIAL PRAYER...

L-R: Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Head of Service, Mr. Olabode Agoro; Commissioner for Home Affairs, Hon. Ibrahim Layode; Special Adviser to the Governor, Rural Development, Dr. Nurudeen Agbaje; and Special Adviser for Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, during a New Year Special Prayer at the Lagos House Mosque, Marina, yesterday

FG Unveils 2026 Economic Growth Agenda, Set to Prioritise Jobs, Investments Charts path to $1tn GDP with deployment of strategic reforms Pushes for electronic receipt template in govt transactions To restructure domestic debt profile Pledges to work with CBN toward disinflation, FX stability Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Nume Ekeghe in Lagos The federal government yesterday outlined an expansive set of policies and priorities

aimed at accelerating economic growth, creating jobs and mobilising large-scale investment in 2026, as Nigeria seeks to move to a new phase of expansion.

The government stated that its strategy in 2026 would focus on strengthening stability, scaling output and attracting long-term domestic and foreign capital, as part of the ambition

to place the economy on a path towards the much-talked-about $1 trillion Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2036. A statement signed by the Minister of State for Finance,

Abiodun Signs Ogun’s N1.669 Trillion 2026 Budget into Law James Sowole in Abeokuta

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has signed the N1.669 trillion 2026 Appropriation Bill into law, marking another milestone in the state’s fiscal planning and development drive. The governor had on December 3, 2025, presented the Appropriation Bill - tagged the “Budget of Sustainable Legacy” - to the Ogun State House of Assembly for consideration and approval. The signing ceremony, which took place at the Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, was witnessed by the Speaker of the House, Hon. Oludaisi Elemide, principal officers and members of

the Assembly, as well as members of the State Executive Council. Speaking after assenting to the bill, Abiodun assured that his administration would commence immediate implementation of the budget to ensure improved performance in both revenue generation and expenditure. He noted the 2026 budget represents a significant leap in the state’s financial profile, recording a 58 per cent increase over the 2025 budget of N1.054 trillion. “We are excited that Ogun State is making progress. This time last year, we signed into law an appropriation of about N1.054 trillion. This year, we are signing into law an appropriation

of N1.669 trillion, which represents a 58 per cent increase over the 2025 budget,” the governor said. Abiodun added that implementation would begin immediately after the holidays, with a firm commitment to achieving better budget performance on both the financing and expenditure sides. He explained that the timely passage of the Appropriation Bill by the House and its signing before the end of the year align with the administration’s tradition of ensuring fiscal continuity, predictability, and effective governance. The governor expressed appreciation to the Speaker and members of the Ogun State House

of Assembly for their diligence and cooperation, describing their swift action as a demonstration of dedication to the service of the state and its people. “Let me first thank the Speaker and the entire Ogun State House of Assembly for working hand in glove with the Executive. Once we presented the bill, they immediately went to work. They thoroughly interrogated it, engaged all the Ministries, Departments and Agencies, and did so expeditiously, despite the encroachment of the holiday period,” he said.

Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite, said the Bola Tinubu administration was building on reforms implemented over the past two years, including exchange rate unification, energy market restructuring and fiscal consolidation, to drive higher productivity, deepen domestic value creation and expand capital formation. According to the government, 2026 will mark a turning point in which policy emphasis will shift decisively from stabilisation to growth, with a focus on lowering risk, unlocking private capital and ensuring sustainable returns for investors while expanding opportunities for Nigerians. It said the new economic strategy was anchored on macroeconomic predictability, clear sectoral investment pathways and disciplined policy execution, which it described as critical to restoring investor confidence and reducing

uncertainty across the economy. “In 2026, the Federal Government of Nigeria will focus on key policies and priorities to accelerate economic growth, create jobs and mobilise investments to build a prosperous Nigerian economy. The Federal Ministry of Finance will anchor a comprehensive Growth Acceleration and Investment Mobilisation Strategy aimed at strengthening macroeconomic stability, and positioning Nigeria as a premier destination for long-term Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). “Building on foundational reforms implemented over the past 24 months, including exchange rate unification, energy market restructuring, and fiscal consolidation, the Tinubu administration is advancing into a second wave of reforms focused squarely on unleashing accelerated GDP growth, productivity, Continued on page 9

Mutfwang Signs Two Key Bills into Law, Sets Senator Godiya Akwashiki’s Passing is a New Fiscal Framework for Plateau State Yemi Kosoko in Jos

National Loss, Says Deputy Senate President Plateau State Governor, Caleb Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, yesterday, mourned the death of Senator Godiya Akwashiki, describing his passing as a major loss to the National Assembly and the country. Akwashiki, who represented Nasarawa North Senatorial District in the current 10th National Assembly, died on Wednesday at the age of 52 in an Indian hospital after a protracted illness. In a statement issued by

his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Malam Ismail Mudashir, Barau extolled the late senator’s virtues, portraying him as a lawmaker of exceptional calibre, who distinguished himself through patriotism and dedication to public service. Barau said Akwashiki consistently demonstrated commitment to the Nigerian project through his robust contributions in and outside the Senate. “Senator Akwashiki was a parliamentarian par excellence who worked tirelessly to

enhance the standard of living of the people of Nasarawa North Senatorial District and beyond,” Barau said. He added that the late senator’s death had created a huge vacuum, particularly in Nasarawa State’s political and developmental landscape. “My thoughts and prayers are with his immediate family, the entire people of Nasarawa North Senatorial District and Nasarawa State in general. May God grant them the strength to bear this irreparable loss,” he stated.

Mutfwang, has signed into law two major bills passed by the State House of Assembly, marking a significant step in the state’s fiscal and administrative reforms. The first legislation, the Harmonized Taxes and Levies (Approved for Collection and Coordinated Matters) Law, 2025, forms part of a new tax regime expected to take effect on January 1, 2026. The law seeks to streamline tax administration, curb multiple taxation, and strengthen internally generated revenue

mechanisms across the state. The second legislation is the 2025 Appropriation Law, which authorizes the withdrawal and use of funds from the Consolidated Revenue Fund of Plateau State. The law provides the statutory backing for government spending in the 2025 fiscal year following the passage of the budget by the state legislature. Governor Mutfwang assented to both bills during a brief ceremony at Government House, Jos, on December 31, 2025. The event was attended by the Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Naanlong

Daniel, principal officers of the Assembly, the Secretary to the Government of the State, the Chief of Staff, the Attorney General, and members of the State Executive Council. The governor commended the legislature for what he described as a collaborative and reform driven approach to law-making, noting that the new laws would enhance transparency, accountability, and sustainable development in Plateau State. With the governor’s assent, both laws have now come into full effect, laying the foundation for improved fiscal management and governance in the state.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026 • T H I S D AY

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026 • THISDAY

NEWS

YULETIDE HOMAGE TO JIM NWOBO...

L-R: Former Governor of Abia State, Senator Orji Uzo Kalu; Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, and former Governor of old Anambra State, Senator Jim Nwobodo, during a yuletide homage to the elder statesman at his country Amechi Awkunanaw country home, Enugu, on New Year’s eve.

Tinubu Lauds Hadiza Bala-Usman’s Public Service Achievements on 50th Birthday Describes her as a dedicated patriot committed to national development

Deji Elumoye in Abuja President Bola Tinubu on Thursday rejoiced with his Special Adviser on Policy Coordination and Head of the Central Results Delivery Coordination Unit (CRDCU), Hadiza Bala-Usman, on her 50th birthday, on January 2, 2026. Tinubu, in a release issued by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described Bala-Usman as a dedicated patriot whose sterling public career reflected service, sacrifice, and commitment to national development. He said Bala-Usman’s nearly three decades in public service offered enduring lessons in diligence and purpose-driven leadership. The president recalled her early years at the Bureau of Public Enterprises, where, even at a young age, she demonstrated exceptional clarity of vision and a firm grasp of the structural reforms needed to drive economic growth. He described her leadership and outstanding achievements

at Abuja Enterprise Agency and Nigerian Ports Authority as defining milestones, stating that she broke barriers, raised standards, and strengthened accountability in public administration. Tinubu also commended Bala-Usman’s political contributions, particularly her role in party organisation and institutional development within All Progressives Congress (APC), which he said helped entrench internal processes, organisational effectiveness, excellence, and democratic values. Tinubu stated, “In her current role as Special Adviser and Head of the CRDCU, Hadiza continues to distinguish herself as an astute public administrator through discipline, clear thinking, and a firm focus on results. “Hadiza’s efforts have helped strengthen the governance framework, evidence-based performance, and enhanced the realisation of the Renewed Hope Agenda. I thank her for her single-minded commitment

to our administration and national service. “I pray for strength, wisdom, good health and grace for her to remain an inspiration to women, young people and emerging leaders across the country as she celebrates this

Rejoices with Kogi Gov Ododo on 44th birthday

landmark 50th birthday.” Tinubu, also on Thursday, congratulated Governor Ahmed Ododo of Kogi State, as he clocked 44 on January 1, 2026. Ododo, one of the youngest governors in Nigeria today, is an accountant-turned politician.

Ebonyi State Government has procured three new aircraft which will arrive in the state before the end of this month. Governor Francis Nwifuru disclosed this in a state wide new year broadcast to the people of the state, explaining the initiative was a calculated attempt to open the state to greater economic activity. His words: “Reliable air transport makes it easier for investors to do business, for professionals to move in and out of the State, and for our people to connect with other parts of the country and beyond. “Ebonyi Air will support business growth, encourage

tourism, and reduce the time and cost of travel. It will also strengthen Ebonyi’s position as a state that is ready to engage with the wider economy and attract new opportunities. “By improving connectivity, we are creating conditions that support trade, investment, and job creation, while making our state more accessible and competitive.” The governor also announced plans to commence the establishment of a modern cement factory. He said the project would take advantage of the abundant limestone deposits, which are among the natural resources with great economic potential. “For many years, raw materials from different parts of Nigeria have

programmes and encouraged him to deepen the reach of his initiatives. Tinubu joined the people and the government of Kogi State in celebrating the governor and wishing him a happy birthday and a prosperous New Year.

2027: I Will Leave Peter Obi Once He Accepts VP Position, Says Utomi Yunusa says ‘Obidient Movement’ to remain in ADC irrespective of primaries’ outcome

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Respected Political Economist, Prof. Pat Utomi, yesterday vowed to withdraw his support for Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general elections, if the former Anambra governor chooses to run as vice presidential candidate to anybody in 2027. Utomi, the Founder of and Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Values and Leadership (CVL) who

appeared on a national television, where he discussed sundry national issues, maintained that Obi will contest for the presidency in 2027. Recall that Obi on December 31 defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a party which many Nigerians believe former Vice President Abubakar Atiku, a veteran contestant for the presidency, has a stronghold. But Utomi pointed out that Obi did not join the ADC to deputise for anybody, insisting that he will

Ebonyi Government Procures Three Aircrafts Benjamin Nworie in Abakaliki

He had served as auditorgeneral for local governments in Kogi State before he was elected governor in 2023. The president, in another statement by Onanuga, commended the governor for his people-centred policies and

been transported elsewhere for processing. Our goal is to add value here at home. By processing our limestone within Ebonyi State, we keep jobs, skills, and income within our communities.” The governor said in the past years, his administration has made huge investment in critical areas such as education, health care delivery, infrastructure and human capital development “Beyond classrooms and hospitals, development must be visible in the physical environment where people live and work. We constructed and rehabilitated roads in all local government areas, renewed Abakaliki metropolis, improved rural connectivity, and delivered bridges and flagship in-

frastructure projects. Infrastructure creates access, but access must lead to opportunity” In line with Section 212 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), the Ebonyi State governor granted pardon to Eze Nwiboko Obodo Onyike (posthumous), Edigbo Agu (posthumous), Akponwe Ogalegu (posthumous), Ugadu Ofim (posthumous), Nwangbo Idoko (posthumous), Ifeanyi Nwamini, Hyacinth Nwigwe, and Eze Ekene. “For the individuals who are no longer alive, this pardon is posthumous. It is granted to clear their names, restore dignity to their memory, and bring peace to their families and communities.

walk away immediately Obi decides to be vice president to any politician. “I can tell you that Peter Obi will contest for the presidency. The day he becomes somebody’s vice president, I walk away from his corner. I can tell you that for a fact,” Utomi, a former presidential adviser stated. Utomi also made a case for limiting presidential and gubernatorial candidates to Nigerians aged 70 and below, stressing that the Nigerian presidency has increasingly become a ‘retirement home’ for some politicians. Besides, he criticised both former President Muhammadu Buhari’s and President Bola Tinubu’s administrations as persons running ‘government in absentia’, describing the situation as unacceptable. He added: “Something important about this election to bear in mind is that the Nigerian presidency has become a retirement home where people go for the Nigerian state to pay their medical bills. It is not acceptable. They don’t have the fitness to run the country. The last one, and the current one, have essentially been government-in-absentia leaders. “I, Pat Utomi, am insisting that I will canvass to the Nigerian people that nobody over the age of 70 should run for an executive position, whether it be governor or president,” he maintained.

Meanwhile, the National Coordinator of the ‘Obidient Movement’ Worldwide, Tanko Yunusa, has said the movement will remain within the ADC and abide by the outcome of the party’s presidential primary, even if Atiku Abubakar emerges as the candidate in 2027. Speaking on the same media platform, he insisted that the movement was committed to democratic principles and would take its decisions “democratically” within the ADC and compete fairly alongside other aspirants. He stated: “As democrats, we will go in there and contest equitably well with every contestant based on democratic tenets. We believe that at the end of it all, Mr. Peter Obi will come out on top with the large teaming population that he is bringing into the ADC. We will remain in the party and give the party the lease of life it demands democratically.” Yunusa said that the ADC began to gain nationwide traction following the involvement of Obi, describing the party as a “vehicle” that was finally set in motion by the former governor’s entry. Yunusa added: “With all due respect to the ADC, it got its traction when people came around and agreed. The vehicle of ADC kick-started yesterday with one ignition kick, and that is the excitement that His Excellency Mr. Peter Obi has brought to it.”

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Agama: SEC to Prioritise Mobilisation of Long-term Funds, Others in 2026 Kayode Tokede Director-General of Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr. Emomotimi Agama, yesterday said the commission was prioritising the mobilisation of long-term capital to bridge Nigeria’s infrastructure and sectoral gaps. Agama also said SEC was streamlining regulatory frameworks and aggressively facilitating the issuance of innovative financial instruments that channelled disciplined capital into productive sectors. In a New Year Message in Abuja, Agama disclosed that in 2026, the commission will facilitate the issuance of infrastructure bonds, green bonds, municipal bonds, and infrastructure-focused funds.

He stated, “Our goal is to attract long-term domestic and international capital into roads, power, rail, housing, and digital infrastructure, while making it easier for state governments and infrastructure companies to access the market efficiently. “We will promote the listing of agribusiness firms and create tailored listing windows for agricultural cooperatives and value-chain companies. “Through commodity exchanges, agricultural investment trusts, and commoditieslinked financial instruments, we will de-risk agriculture, ensure fair pricing for farmers, strengthen food security, and allow Nigerians to own a stake in the nation’s breadbasket.” The director-general stressed that SEC will also drive the

revitalisation of Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) and introduce innovative affordable housing bonds. He said the initiatives will unlock capital for mass housing delivery, create new asset classes for investors, and move millions of Nigerians closer to homeownership. According to him, “We are reviewing our rules to incentivise listings from small and medium-scale industries, with special focus on manufacturing, automotive, pharmaceuticals, and finished goods. “By providing patient capital through the capital market, we will revitalise factories, reduce import dependency, create jobs, and position “Made in Nigeria” as a global brand. He added, “The SEC will

support Nigeria’s power sector through infrastructure bonds, green energy bonds, project-backed securities, and public–private investment vehicles. We will help unlock long-term capital for grid expansion, renewable energy projects, embedded power solutions, and energy transition initiatives. “By improving bankability structures and attracting patient capital into the power value chain, the capital market will support energy security.” He stated that as the new year began, SEC was not merely turning a page on the calendar; but was embracing a profound opportunity - an opportunity to redefine the very purpose and power of the Nigerian capital market.

Agama Agama added, “We look back at a year of transformation and look forward to a future where our capital market

FG UNVEILS 2026 ECONOMIC GROWTH AGENDA, SET TO PRIORITISE JOBS, INVESTMENTS and capital formation. “In 2026, Nigeria’s economy will enter a transition phase from stabilisation to expansion. Going forward, the government’s focus will be to scale output, deepen domestic value creation, and place the economy on a credible path toward a $1 trillion GDP by 2036,” it stressed . That aspiration, it said, will be achieved by domesticating key supply chains to use raw materials, a workforce, and intellectual property sourced competitively from Nigeria in line with the ‘Nigeria First Policy’ launched by President Bola Tinubu, and building an open, export-oriented economy with strong domestic aggregate demand. As part of efforts to anchor stability, the ministry said it would maintain close coordination with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to support disinflation, exchange rate stability and orderly credit conditions. Besides, fiscal and monetary alignment, the statement noted, would remain central to reducing volatility, compressing sovereign risk premiums and lowering the cost of capital for both public and private investment. The ministry said it had adopted the CBN’s December 30, 2025 macroeconomic outlook as its baseline and would work with the apex bank and the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) to implement a disinflation and growth acceleration strategy aimed at restoring Nigeria’s investment grade fundamentals over the medium term. On growth, the minister said Nigeria would pursue a sector-led strategy designed to unlock private capital, boost exports and stimulate domestic demand. It said barriers to growth would be dismantled, price controls removed and a willing buyer willing seller philosophy infused into sectoral regulations to allow entrepreneurial capital

to flourish. Priority sectors identified by the government include energy and gas-based industrialisation, agribusiness and food value chains, manufacturing and light industry, housing and urban infrastructure, healthcare and life sciences, digital services, creative and tourism industries, logistics and distribution infrastructure, as well as solid minerals and critical metals. The statement said federal ministries, state governments and development partners would align around a common investment thesis built on policy clarity, bankable projects and rapid removal of regulatory bottlenecks. Sector-specific working groups, it added, would fasttrack reforms and investment pipelines capable of absorbing large volumes of domestic and foreign capital. The government also emphasised capital formation as a central pillar of its 2026 growth agenda. It said reforms would be implemented to deepen capital and insurance markets, expand long-tenor local currency instruments, improve liquidity and transparency, and strengthen investor protections to support infrastructure, housing and productive sector financing. According to the ministry, regulatory changes would encourage greater participation by pension funds, insurance firms and institutional investors, while insurance market reforms would focus on recapitalisation, improved supervision and expanded coverage to better manage economic and climate-related risks. To broaden access to finance, the government said it would prioritise financial inclusion and the expansion of consumer credit to households, microenterprises and the informal sector, in order to support domestic demand and translate macroeconomic reforms into tangible welfare gains.

It said partnerships with commercial banks, microfinance institutions, fintech companies and credit guarantee schemes would be deepened to deploy innovative risk-sharing instruments and digital credit infrastructure, with particular attention to women, youthled enterprises and first-time borrowers. The statement also outlined a strategic role for development finance institutions, noting that the Ministry of Finance would assume responsibility for development finance previously handled by the central bank and issue new guidelines for a forward-looking strategy. Given Nigeria’s growth ambitions and an estimated requirement of about N246 trillion in long-term capital through 2036, the government said institutions such as the Bank of Industry (BoI) and the Nigerian Export-Import Bank would be strengthened to de-risk priority sectors, crowd in private investment and anchor investor confidence. Nigeria’s reform momentum, policy clarity, and execution discipline provides a credible platform for DFIs to deploy capital at scale, with confidence, and measurable impact. The Federal Government affirms its full support for DFI-led and DFI-supported initiatives aligned with national priorities and commits to maintaining the policy consistency, institutional coordination, and implementation focus required for successful delivery. On fiscal sustainability, the government said it would strengthen non-oil revenue mobilisation through improved compliance, digital systems and transparency. It highlighted the commencement of new federal tax laws from January 1, 2026 and the rollout of a Revenue Optimisation Platform across ministries and agencies, with electronic receipts becoming the sole legal proof of payment for federal services.

It also pledged deeper coordination with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) and petroleum regulators to improve oil and gas revenue assurance and fiscal accountability, while reviewing constraints such as pricing and domestic supply obligations that limit capital expansion in the sector. “To support fiscal sustainability without distorting growth, the FGN will strengthen non-oil revenue performance through improved compliance, digital revenue systems, and enhanced transparency across federal agencies. “The ministry will continue to review efforts to boost revenue generation in 2026 from a mix of sources. We are optimistic that with the new federal tax laws, effective as of January 1, 2026, royalties, taxes, tariffs, fees, and related line items will be vigorously collected and remitted to the Treasury Single Account (TSA),” the federal government added. Enabling this effort, it said, will be the new federal Revenue Optimisation Platform (RevOps) which will be rolled out across the federation and MDAs starting January 1, 2026. The system, it stressed, integrates across all revenue generating, and

related mechanisms of the federal government. “Integrated into RevOps platform are additional instruments such as the use of Electronic Receipts, which will now become the sole acceptable proof of payment for all federal services and products. From railway tickets to birth certificates to customs duties, only the electronic receipt template is legal as of January 1, 2026. As such, FMF expects sharper visibility on daily revenue collection, uses of cash, and overall effectiveness in managing federal resources,” it emphasised. In addition, the government said it would pursue disciplined cash management and domestic debt optimisation to reduce short-term interest burdens, extend maturities and free up capital for growthenhancing investments. The statement said public sector productivity would be boosted through digitisation of workflows and investment approvals, faster decision-making and clearer accountability across ministries, departments and agencies. To promote Nigeria as an investment destination, the government pointed to the country’s large population, natural resource base, gas reserves, strategic location, trade agreements and

becomes the definitive solution provider for Nigeria’s most pressing economic and developmental needs.” improved financial stability, noting that reforms were aimed at converting these advantages into predictable returns and bankable projects. As next steps, the government said it would intensify engagement with investors, development finance institutions and multilateral partners, and establish a central investor desk within the Ministry of Finance to serve as a single interface for policy communication, disclosure and engagement. The ministry said the administration remained committed to policy consistency, transparent governance and inclusive growth, stressing that reforms were designed to expand opportunity, restore confidence and improve the everyday lives of Nigerians. “Nigeria will restructure its domestic debt profile to reduce short-term interest burdens and extend maturities where applicable. This strategy is designed to crowd in private investment, ease pressure on financial markets, and redirect capital toward productive sectors of the economy. “Lower debt servicing costs will create fiscal space for infrastructure, human capital development, and catalytic investments aligned with national growth priorities,” the finance ministry added.

N E TA N YA H U : I S R A E L W O R K I N G O N AG E N DA TO S U P P O RT P E R S E C U T E D C H R I ST I A N S I N N I G E R I A intervention threat to stop an alleged Christian persecution in the country. In a video posted on his X page, Netanyahu said, “I see the battle against us and the battle against our JudeoChristian tradition, basically being waged around the globe. And it’s waged primarily by two forces, radical Shiite Islam and radical Sunni Islam. “That means the axis that is led by Iran, much battered, admittedly, but still there, and the Sunni axis led by the

Muslim Brotherhood, which permeates everything. “They go to Europe, they go to the United States, they go to Africa, Nigeria. And we are conscious of the fact that Christians are being persecuted, across the Middle East, in Syria, in Lebanon, in Nigeria, in Turkey and beyond. “We’re also aware of the fact, as you are, that one country protects the Christian community, enables it to grow, defends it, and makes sure that it thrives, and that country is

Israel. There is no other. None.” Netanyahu stated, “We are joining an effort to have basically a united nations or countries that support Christian communities around the world, beleaguered communities who deserve our help. “Just as you are helping us, we want to help back; and we’re capable of doing this. In Africa, with intel, in the Middle East, with a lot of means that I won’t itemise each one. This is what our agenda is; it’s a main part of our agenda.”

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026 • THISDAY

NEWS

COURTESY VISIT TO BAMIDELE AT HIS COUNTRY HOME...

L-R: Oluroye of Iroko Ekiti, Oba Sunday Ekundayo; Olomu of Ilomu Ekiti, Oba Oluwadamilare Omobire, Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele; Olohan of Erinjinyan Ekiti, Oba Adegoroye Oluwadare and Elesure of Esure Ekiti, Oba Adebanji Ajibola during a courtesy visit to Bamidele at his country home in Iyin Ekiti Kingdom, Ekiti State … recently PHOTO: OFFICE OF THE LEADER OF THE SENATE

N’Assembly Directs Release of Signed Tax Bills to Quell Gazetting Controversy As Gov Ododo signs new Kogi Tax Reform Act into law Sunday Aborisade in Abuja and Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja The leadership of the National Assembly has moved to address public concerns over alleged discrepancies between the votes and proceedings of the legislature and the gazetted versions of recently passed Tax Acts. It consequently directed the

immediate release of the transmitted bills signed into law by President Bola Tinubu. In a press statement issued on Thursday, the National Assembly said the decision was taken in response to growing public debate and calls for transparency surrounding the tax legislation. In a related development, Governor Usman Ododo of Kogi

State signed the Kogi State Tax Bill into law, a position which took effect from January 1, 2026, trailing introduction of the new Nigeria Tax Reform Act by the federal government. Ododo signed into law two key revenue bills, aligning with the federal government’s new tax reforms, in effect, domesticating the new Nigeria Tax Reform Act

to ensure smooth operation of the new tax regime. The National Assembly leadership disclosed that the clerk had been instructed to make available copies of the transmitted Tax Bills, including the certificate pages bearing presidential assent, to enable Nigerians independently verify the authenticity of the documents. The statement was signed by

First Lady: 2026 Will Be a Year of Peace, Prosperity for Nigeria Welcomes first baby of the year

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has described 2026 as a year of abundant peace and prosperity for Nigeria. Speaking on Thursday during a visit to Federal Medical Centre in Jabi, Abuja, Mrs Tinubu welcomed the “First Baby of the Year,” a girl born at midnight to 26-year-old first-time mother Adakole Patience. The first lady was accompanied by the wife of the vice president, Hajia Nana Shettima; Minister of Women Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulieman-

Ibrahim; and Minister of State for Federal Capital Territory, Hajia Mariya Mahmoud; among other dignitaries. She also celebrated Blessing Oragwu, who gave birth to triplets on December 29, 2025—two boys and a girl—after 13 years of marriage, presenting the family with gifts. “I welcomed The baby of the year, a girl, and then visited the triplets, born last month, the mother has waited for 13 years, which is wonderful, and another baby boy,” Mrs Tinubu said. Reflecting on the significance

of the birth, the first lady expressed gratitude for Nigerians who made it into the new year. According to her, “You know, in Yorubaland, they will say, when you have girls, they come with ease. So we believe that this year is going to be a great year for us as a nation, peace in abundance, prosperity in abundance. “I’m excited because last year was something else. It’s like all of us that made it in to the New Year, we should be thankful. We thank God.” Mrs Tinubu urged Nigerian women to embrace opportunities

with faith and generosity in the new year. She stated, “Nigerian women are blessed. We are blessed. Nigerian women are very hard working. Whatever they want to do, that they feel God has laid in their hearts they should do it. Never feel that I don’t have money to do business. Just go and do what you feel. Start small, and you will be amazed.

Director of Information, Mr. Bullah Bi-Allah, on behalf of Clerk to the National Assembly. It clarified that although public interest in the Tax Acts had been high, only a limited number of individuals and organisations had formally applied for Certified True Copies (CTCs) of the harmonised bills. According to the National Assembly, all such requests received so far have been fully processed, while other interested persons were advised to apply directly to the Office of the Clerk, specifying the particular bills required and paying the prescribed fees. The legislature further explained that the clerk was currently working with the Federal Government Printing Press to ensure the publication of the duly certified and assented Acts in line with statutory requirements. It said the official gazetted versions of the Tax Acts were expected to be ready on or before January 1, 2026. While stressing that the clerk initiated the gazetting process, the National Assembly stated that the responsibility for printing and final publication of Acts rested solely

with the Federal Government Printing Press. To prevent a recurrence of similar controversies, the leadership of the National Assembly announced a review of its internal procedures on the transmission and gazetting of bills. It disclosed that henceforth, all bills forwarded for presidential assent would be routed through designated Presidential Liaison Officers. In addition, the statement said no request for the gazetting of any Act of the National Assembly would be entertained by the Federal Government Printing Press unless such a request was formally initiated by Clerk to the National Assembly or an authorised representative. The National Assembly commended Nigerians for their sustained interest and constructive engagement in legislative affairs, describing it as critical to strengthening transparency, accountability and professionalism in the law-making process. The laws signed by the Kogi State governor included Kogi State Internal Revenue Service (Establishment) Law, 2025, and Kogi State Taxes and Levies (Approved List for Collection) Law, 2025.

Governor Alia Assents to 2026 Budget, Declares End to Rural Neglects in Benue

Presenting the bill to the gov- aspirations that bind us to a Okoh in Makurdi ernor for assent, the Speaker greater tomorrow. Otti Dismisses Defection Rumour, George ”At the heart of Benue lies The governor of Benue of the Benue State House of State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, Assembly, Rt. Hon. Alfred a strong rural foundation that Spurns Invitation to Join APC onthe 2026 Thursday assented to Aondoaver Emberga, stated feeds the nation, preserves our Appropriation Bill, the House did due diligence by culture, and anchors our path Boniface Okoro in Umuahia

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has dismissed rumours of his plan to defect from Labour Party, stating he wouldremain to “rescue” the party that brought him to power. Otti made this clear during his monthly media chat, “Dr. Alex Otti speaks to Abians.” At the media interactive, he was asked to respond to defection

rumours and to also clarify if he was planning to defect with the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, who just defecte to the ADC. “If you remember, I joined the Labour Party before Peter Obi. He (Obi) communicated to me that he was leaving the Labour Party and I gave him my blessings, but I told him that I would remain in the Labour Party. “I told him that I would have

to continue the struggle to rescue the Labour Party. That is the party that brought me to power. But for now, I am not defecting with him,” Otti said. He stressed that discussions about alternative party platforms could only arise after exhausting internal efforts to strengthen Labour Party, emphasising that his immediate priority was delivering on the mandate given to him by Abians.

unveiling what he described as ‘’a people-focused spending plan,” aimed at rural development, livelihood support, and a sustained economic growth. The Governor had submitted to the Benue State House of Assembly an appropriation bill of N605.51 billion, but the House after the appropriate budgetary processes, passed 695.01 billion, increasing the budget by 89.5billion.

painstakingly scrutinizing and analysing the budget viz-a-viz the current economic realities and in line with the vision of the administration. Speaking shortly after signing the bill, christened the “Budget of Rural Development, Livelihood Support and Sustained Growth,” the Governor said: “this budget is rooted in the realities of our present and is guided by the

to inclusive growth. For decades, these rural communities carried the weight of neglect, despite feeding the nation. With this budget, we make a bold declaration: the era of rural neglect is over. ”The 2026 Budget deliberately prioritizes rural transformation through feeder roads, bridges, water supply, rural electrification, and climate-smart infrastructure.

THISDAY • FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026

NEWS

CISLAC AND NECA ADVOCACY ENGAGEMENT...

L-R: Member, Nigeria Employer’s Consultative Association (NECA), Sylvester Osifo Enoghase; Director General, NECA, Mr. Adewale Smatt Oyerinde; Executive Director, Civil Society Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), Auwal Musa Rafsanjani; Communications officer, CISLAC, Halima Shehu and Program Manager, CISLAC, Mr. Solomon Adoga, during the CISLAC engagement with NECA on advocacy agenda, focusing on policy reform, decent work and a conducive business environment for inclusive national development, held at CISLAC office in Abuja ... recently PHOTO: ENOCK REUBEN

Igbo Position in Nigeria: Nwobodo, Kalu, Mbah Hold Strategic Talks Elder statesman and former civilian governor of old Anambra State, Chief Jim Nwobodo, has hosted Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, and Senator Orji Uzor Kalu at his country home, Amechi, Awkunanaw, Enugu, where the leaders held strategic discussions on the position of the Igbo in Nigeria’s political arrangement. As political alignments and realignments continued ahead of the 2027 general election, the closed-door meeting was described as both consultative and reflective, focused on the need for the South-east to clearly define its interests, strengthen internal unity, and play a more central role in the country’s polity. Speaking after the yuletide homage by the two leaders, Wednesday evening, Nwobodo said the engagement was driven by the desire to end ambiguity surrounding the place of the Igbo in national affairs. He stressed that the region could no longer afford to be taken for granted. “These are two very important Igbo men. They came to pay me a yuletide visit, and we also wanted

to know the position of the Igbo in the scheme of things in this nation,” Nwobodo said. He added, “We don’t want anybody to deceive us or pretend that everything is okay. We want to know what Nigeria has for the Igbo, and this time around, we will get it.” The elder statesman warned against symbolic or cosmetic inclusion, insisting that the Igbo must have a clearly defined and respected place in the country’s

power structure. “We don’t want any photographic information. We want to know where the Igbo stand. We cannot be taken for granted for so long,” he stated. Nwobodo disclosed that consultations were ongoing among key stakeholders. He called for a meeting of serving and former governors from the South-east to collectively decide on the political direction of the region. The elder statesman stated, “Let

the present and former governors of the Igbo nation meet and take a decision. Others can meet and decide anything, but let our own governors meet and make a decision. We will definitely have a position for the Igbo.” Former Abia State governor and senator representing Abia North, Kalu, said the discussions centred on ensuring the Igbo remained relevant and strategically positioned in Nigeria’s political space. Kalu stated, “We are discussing

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, has called on Nigerians to embrace unity, hope and a renewed sense of national purpose as the country enters 2026. She stressed that only collective resolve can overcome the nation’s challenges. In her New Year message released Thursday, the lawmaker described the dawn of 2026 as a defining moment for reflection and recommitment to building a stronger, more inclusive Nigeria,

divisions could weaken the region’s influence at the national level. He described the talks as part of an evolving process aimed at fostering cohesion and strategic engagement. “As people of Igbo extraction, we must not do anything that would create division. There is a need for us not to be fragmented,” Mbah said. “The discussions we have had are evolving, and they will come to light in the days ahead,” he added.

Akpabio Drops Defamation Suits Against Natasha, Others, Cites Priest’s Call for Peace at New Year Mass

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has ordered the immediate withdrawal of all defamation lawsuits instituted against several individuals, saying he was personally moved by a sermon delivered during a New Year Day Mass. Akpabio made the announcement on Thursday at Sacred Heart

Parish, Uyo, where he disclosed that he had filed nearly nine court cases against persons he accused of defaming and maligning his character. He said the message of peace preached by the parish priest struck a deep chord, prompting a rethink of his decision to pursue the litigations. Akpabio said, “I had almost nine cases in court against some

individuals who defamed me, who lied against me, who slandered my name. “But as I listened to the priest, I suddenly realised that he was speaking directly to me. “So, I hereby direct my solicitors to withdraw all the lawsuits against them.” In his homily, Parish Priest of Sacred Heart Parish, Aka, and VicarGeneral of the Catholic Diocese of

2026: Akpoti-Uduaghan Urges Nigerians to Rise Above Divisions, Recommits to Nation-Building Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

the position of the Igbo in the polity of Nigeria and how it will be good for all of us. “It is the desire of the Igbo to be in the centre of affairs. We have no alternative than to be in the centre. It is not an option; it is a requirement.” Kalu added that the conversation would be expanded to include other Igbo leaders in order to build consensus. Mbah emphasised the need for unity and warned that internal

rather than a mere change of calendar. She said, “As we step into this New Year, I extend my heartfelt greetings and best wishes to all Nigerians at home and in the diaspora. “A new year offers us not just a change in date, but a renewed opportunity to reflect, rebuild, and rise stronger together as one people,” she said. Akpoti-Uduaghan acknowledged the economic pressures, security challenges and social uncertainties that characterised the past year, while commending Nigerians for

their resilience and determination in the face of adversity. She said, “The year past came with its share of trials, uncertainties, and lessons. Yet, through it all, our people have continued to show remarkable resilience, courage, and hope. “These qualities define us and remind us that no challenge is greater than our collective will to overcome,” she noted. The Senator underscored the imperative of national unity, peaceful coexistence and mutual respect across ethnic, religious and cultural lines, describing Nigeria’s

diversity as a vital asset rather than a fault line. She said, “As we embrace the New Year, let us renew our commitment to unity, peace, and mutual respect. “Our diversity remains our greatest strength, and only through cooperation and understanding can we achieve the Nigeria of our dreams,” she said. She also urged Nigerian youths to remain focused and innovative, stressing that their energy, creativity and entrepreneurial drive are essential to national renewal and long-term transformation.

Uyo, the Very Reverend Father Donatus Udoette, emphasised peace as the greatest need of mankind. Udoette urged parishioners to forgive and let go of past grievances. He said, “You have to let go of the past, no matter what it was. All of us carry some luggage of pain and hurt. You have to let go if you want to move on.” With the directive, the senate president brought to an end all pending defamation-related legal actions, signalling a gesture of reconciliation and a fresh start at the beginning of the new year. Akpabio’s decision to withdraw all pending defamation suits came against the backdrop of a series of highly publicised legal and political disputes involving Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, which had drawn national attention and intensified debates around free speech, gender, power and accountability within Nigeria’s political space. The rift between Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan became prominent following sharp exchanges, which led to her suspension, as the Kogi Central senator openly criticised Akpabio over the action taken against her by the senate. In response, Akpabio and

his allies turned to the courts, filing multiple defamation suits against Akpoti-Uduaghan and other individuals who echoed or amplified the claims. The legal actions, estimated to be close to nine in number, sought retractions, apologies and substantial damages, and were widely seen as a test case on the limits of political criticism and dissent in Nigeria’s democracy. Akpoti-Uduaghan, on her part, maintained that her statements were made in the public interest and constituted legitimate political expression, vowing to defend herself vigorously in court. Civil society groups, media organisations, and rights advocates weighed in, with some warning that the lawsuits could have a chilling effect on free speech, while others argued that public office holders also deserved protection from false and damaging allegations. As the cases progressed, they became emblematic of deeper tensions within the political class, reflecting struggles over power, reputation and accountability. Akpabio’s sudden decision to withdraw all defamation suits, citing a New Year sermon on peace and forgiveness, therefore, marks a significant turning point.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026 • THISDAY

NEWS

GIFT FOR FIRST BABY OF THE YEAR...

Her Excellency, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, Wife of the Ogun State Governor, marks the New Year by presenting a gift to Mrs. Ayoola Oluwadamilare, mother of the first baby of the year 2026, at Batoro Community Health Centre, Sagamu.

Bala Mohammed: FCT Minster is a Terrorist Wike: you have no party for successor Fubara urges residents to ignore rising political tension in Rivers Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi, Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, yesterday, traded words, in what many consid-ered a renewal of their feud and rivalry. While Mohammed accused Wike of being a “terrorist”, and claimed he was behind the Economic and Financial Crimes (EFCC) charges against his finance commissioner, Wike derided the Bauchi State governor as someone without a political structure and party cohesion to produce a successor. Mohammed who spoke in an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, yesterday, alleged that Wike was controlling institutions, bribing people, and selling lands

to carry out operations. “Somebody said he was going to put fire in my state,” he said, describing the minister as an “undertaker” in Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) working against the party’s unity and interest. The governor also claimed that Wike was working with a former accountant-general, who stole from Bauchi State to testify against his commissioner. Mohammed, who spoke amid widening cracks within the opposition PDP, said Wike was not a genuine member of the party, alleging that his loyalty lay with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He stated, “Wike is an undertaker in our party. He is not there as a genuine member of the PDP, and I fought him. I was even at the secretariat when he went there to

take over. You cannot be in two places at the same time — it’s against the rule of nature.” Mohammed urged PDP leaders to be sincere and avoid arrogance in handling the party’s ongoing leadership tussle, warning that the consequences of impunity could be severe. “We are the leaders today, but we should not think that we are arrogant and that we can do things with a lot of impunity, and nobody questions it,” he cautioned. However, Wike, who was on a thank-you visit to Abua-Odual Local Government Area of Rivers State, where he addressed supporters and political stakeholders, described Mohammed as someone without a political structure and party cohesion to produce a successor. He urged the Bauchi governor to stop the blame game and face

his problems, describing the crisis rocking PDP as a consequence of weak leadership and internal schisms. He stated, “If you do not have such power, why are you fighting? If you have the power to put out a fire, then go ahead and do it. Face your problem. “You came to my state. I told you to be careful. Leave my state alone because you wanted to impose a party leader in my state. “I warned him, ‘you will see the consequences’. Today, he does not have a party to produce his successor. That is exactly what I warned him about. If you know you do not have the strength to fight, why don’t you retreat?” The former Rivers State governor also dismissed as baseless allegation by Mohammed that he instigated crises in Bauchi State.

Crisis Brews in NBA as Yoruba Lawyers Accuse President of Interference in SPIDEL Election Warn NBA could lose credibility before 2026 election

Wale Igbintade

A major crisis is brewing in the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) as the Egbe Amofin O’odu’a, the Yoruba Lawyers’ Forum, has accused NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, of unilaterally annulling the SPIDEL election for alleged personal and partisan reasons. The forum warned that the move casts serious doubts on the credibility of the 2026 NBA General Election, raising fears that the Bar’s leadership is on the brink of a historic internal crisis. The forum described the action as a blatant abuse of office that undermines internal democracy and threatens to compromise the integrity of the Bar’s forthcoming national elections. In a statement issued in Ibadan, Egbe Amofin said the SPIDEL Annual General Conference (AGC) in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, was disrupted after nomina-

tions had concluded and some candidates had already emerged unopposed. The statement was jointly signed by Adetunji Oso, SAN, Secretary of Egbe Amofin O’odu’a, and Aare Isiaka Abiola Olagunju, SAN, Chairman of the Governing Council. According to the forum, the NBA President terminated the election process and imposed a caretaker committee, reportedly handpicked by him, to run SPIDEL affairs for the next two years. The association also alleged that the Secretary of the Electoral Committee of the NBA (ECNBA) 2026, Mr. Aliyu Nasarawa, was used to execute what it described as a “hatchet job” on behalf of the President, raising serious concerns about the impartiality of the electoral body ahead of the 2026 NBA polls. Egbe Amofin warned that the SPIDEL episode, dubbed

“Afamgate”, has eroded the moral authority of the NBA leadership, arguing that a President who allegedly annuls a democratic process for personal gain cannot be trusted to supervise the national election. The group further alleged that Osigwe had openly campaigned for a preferred candidate using NBA resources and had deliberately appointed loyalists to the

electoral committee to engineer a predictable outcome. Rejecting the NBA’s official response to the allegations, Egbe Amofin described it as weak and evasive, noting it failed to address whether any formal complaints prompted the annulment. “The President acted whimsically to truncate the ambitions of perceived political opponents,” the statement said.

“He said all the problems he is facing are because of me, that I claimed I would put fire there. If you have such power, go ahead and use it. Face your problems?” Wike said. The FCT minister, who said he was dealing with Mohammed at the level of party leadership, stressed that he was not interested in what was happening in his state. He advised the Bauchi State governor to confront his issues with EFCC, which is after his associates for alleged financing of terrorism. He said, “What is my business? If your state is clean, go there and clear yourself. Don’t come and tell Nigerians stories. Leave me alone and go and face your problems. “You said I was selling land. You were Minister of the Federal Capital Territory from 2010 to 2015, why not tell Nigerians what you did with Abuja? “You sold land everywhere. The contracts you awarded you couldn’t complete them. Now I am the one completing the projects. Nigerians are singing our praises every day. That means I have done well and I will continue to do well.” He also downplayed criticisms that he was “semi-literate” and a former motor washer not fit for public office, saying such insults do not diminish his political achievements. The FCT minister said, “I have no problem with that. At least I am semi-literate and not completely illiterate. Someone who washed cars became chairman of a local government, governor of one of the most important states in Nigeria, and a two-time minister.”

He defended his political choices and record in public office, insisting that Nigerians are increasingly judging leaders based on performance. “When you tell people the truth, people get angry. But the truth remains the truth,” Wike said. “If you were a senator for eight years, tell your people what you did. That is not abuse; that is accountability,” he said. He defended his continued support for President Bola Tinubu, saying Rivers State has benefitted significantly under the current administration. “The appointments Rivers State has received under President Tinubu have never happened in the history of this state. That is why I can boldly tell Rivers people to support him,” he said.

Fubara to Rivers: Ignore Political Tension Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, urged residents of the state to remain calm, but resolute in the face of rising political tension. Fubara assured residents that his administration will not be distracted or intimidated by what he described as “sounds of war”. He emphasised that prayer, restraint, and peaceful engagement, not confrontation, would continue to define the government’s approach to leadership and governance in 2026. The governor gave the advice during the New Year crossover service at Chapel of Everlasting Grace, Government House, Port Harcourt. Continues online

Zulum Hosts Kanuri Kinsmen from 10 African Countries Michael Olugbode in Abuja Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum yesterday hosted thousands of Kanuri kinsmen from across Africa as Maiduguri played host to this year’s Kanem-Borno Cultural Summit. The gathering attracted Kanuri delegates from at least 10 countries, including Ghana, Sudan, Gabon,

Niger, Central African Republic, Senegal, Libya, Chad, Cameroon and Benin. In attendance were 161 emirs, senior government officials and traditional leaders, underscoring the historic and cultural significance of the summit. The event was conceived as a platform to revive transnational kinship ties rooted in shared

Kanuri heritage, while fostering cooperation in education, economic development and social advancement among Kanuri communities spread across borders. Colourful cultural displays and traditional dance performances by delegations from the participating countries highlighted the rich heritage of the Kanem-Borno civilisation, one of Africa’s longest-

surviving empires which thrived for over a millennium around the Lake Chad region. Addressing participants in the Kanuri language, Zulum called for renewed commitment to educational exchange, entrepreneurship and collective socio-economic initiatives that would uplift Kanuri communities globally.

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026 • THISDAY

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GODSWILL ARRIVING SACRED HEART FOR NEW YEAR SERVICE ...

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio and wife, Unoma (middle), arriving the Sacred Heart Parish in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State for the New Year Service... yesterday PHOTO: SENATE PRESIDENT’S OFFICE

2026: Sanwo-Olu, Bala Mohammed, Makinde, Oyebamiji, CAN, Others Raise Hope of Nigerians Chuks Okocha, Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja, John Shiklam in Kaduna, Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi, Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo, Sylvester Idowu in Warri, Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja and Yemi Kosoko in Jos Nigerian leaders, among them governors, yesterday, in their various new year messages expressed confidence that 2026 would a better year for the citizens. They generally expressed optimism that the new year would yield better result than the outgone year and sought the cooperation of Nigerians for the collective good.

Sanwo-Olu: 2026 Will Be Glorious Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said the New Year would be better and more glorious, praying for God’s guidance and affirming that “with God all will be well”. Sanwo-Olu spoke at a New Year’s Day service at State House Chapel, Marina. He was also at the mosque to join the Muslim prayers. He prayed for President Bola Tinubu, urging Nigerians to support his bold moves to tackle Nigeria’s social and economic challenges. The governor stated, “Lagos will continue to make progress. It shall be well with all citizens; 2026 will be a glorious year. There will be political movements. I will continue to count my days. “I have only one January first left in office. No position is permanent. Let’s continue to pray. We will never give up, no matter the challenges. Nigeria will be greater.” Sanwo-Olu, at the mosque, urged workers to be more dedicated. He also prayed for Mr. President, his family and all Nigerians. At the service were senior government officials, junior staff of State House and some ordinary citizens.

Oyebamiji Vows Peoplefocused Govt The governorship candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Munirudeen Oyebamiji, extended heartfelt felicitations to the citizens and residents of Osun State on the occasion of 2026 New Year celebrations. Oyebamiji extolled the high

N E W Y E A R M E S SAG E S sense of resilience and patriotism daily exhibited by the people of the state since its creation, informing them to await masses-focused and people-centred progressive government in 2026. AMBO, in a congratulatory statement, acknowledged the citizens’ prayers and steadfastness that had kept the state afloat, promising to bring the desired developments when elected governor this year. Oyebamiji stated, “As we usher-in New Year of prosperity, I extend my warmest greetings and felicitations to the good people of our dear state whose resilience, perseverance, dedication and avowed hope have kept our state afloat against all odds. “This is a year of manifestation, a year of fulfillment, a year of transition, a year of prosperity for all and a year of all round growth and development for everyone in the state.”

Mohammed Seeks Peace, Unity, Patience Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, called for continued peaceful coexistence, unity, patience and sustained support as the citizens began the journey of the new year 2026. The governor appealed to political parties, aspirants and their supporters to conduct themselves peacefully and in accordance with the Electoral Act, as political activities ahead of the 2027 general election began to gather momentum. Mohammed, who felicitated with the people of the state and Nigerians at large on the occasion of the 2026 New Year, expressed gratitude to God Almighty for seeing the state and the country through the challenges of 2025. He described the successful passage into 2026 as an act of divine grace, stating that despite economic, political and social challenges, the people of Bauchi State remained resilient, steadfast and prayerful.

Let’s Join Hands to Build Oyo’s Future, Makinde Tells Residents in 2026 Broadcast Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Ma-

kinde, called on all residents of the state to continue to cooperate with the state government, perform their civic duties, and remain united so as to build the future that everyone desired for the Pacesetter State. Makinde said the state government alone could not build the state, calling for continued support from residents in terms of making the state productive, lawful and peaceful in order to achieve the vision of a better and greater Oyo State. Makinde stated this yesterday, in his New Year Broadcast. He appreciated residents of the state for their resilience, trust and support in 2025, saying though the state and its residents were hard pressed on different fronts, they were not crushed. He listed some of the achievements of the administration in the outgone year, including the commissioning of key infrastructure projects in Ibadan and the massive progress on the 110km Ibadan Circular Road project. He pointed out how the state’s commitment to moving its economy from a consumptive one to a productive economy received a major boost through the Oyo State International Agribusiness Summit and the International Tourism Summit organised in the outgone year. Makinde added that as a result of the government’s efforts, Oyo State enjoyed relative peace amid increased insecurity across the country. The governor said the outgone year tested the resolve of the state, but the New Year would reward its preparations, as several efforts, including the preparation and signing of the 2026 Budget of Economic Expansion, had prepared the ground for the tremendous achievements and economic uplift that will be witnessed in the state in the New Year.

Oborevwori, Omo-Agege, Mulade Celebrate Nigerians in New Year Messages Delta State Governor, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, extended warm and heartfelt felicitations to Deltans as they ushered in 2026. Oborevwori expressed profound gratitude to God Almighty for His protection, grace and sustaining

presence over the people and the state throughout the past year. In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, yesterday, the governor described the New Year as a season of renewed hope, fresh beginnings and collective responsibility. He urged citizens to draw strength from the lessons of the past and look forward to the future with optimism, courage and unity of purpose. Oborevwori acknowledged the sacrifices, resilience and patience displayed by Deltans. He said the modest but impactful gains recorded across key sectors of the state were made possible by the people’s enduring spirit, peaceful disposition and shared commitment to progress. Deputy President of the 9th Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, said having weathered the storm precipitated by the poor economy it inherited, Nigerians could look forward to a year for the consolidation of the bold reforms initiated by President Bola Tinubu since taking over the reins of power. In his New Year message, OmoAgege commended Nigerians for their resilience despite the tough decisions they have had to endure. Omo-Agege, the Obarisi of Urhoboland, stated, “The good thing about the reforms introduced by President Tinubu is that they were not knee jerk reactions. They are the product of thoroughly evaluated projections which experts and the international community were convinced were just what the economy needed to come back from the brink. “To a large extent, that has been accomplished. It is now time for consolidation of the gains of the reforms. I believe 2026 marks the return to prosperity for Nigerians.” A prominent Ijaw leader, peace advocate, and human and environmental rights activist, Chief Mulade Sher-iff, welcomed Nigerians to the New Year 2026, urging government at all levels to embrace prudence, accountability, and purposeful governance focused on delivering electoral promises rather than being distracted by the next election cycle. Mulade, the Ibe-Serimowei of ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, made the call in his New Year message issued at Okerenkoko Community in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South-West Local Government

Area of Delta State. In the message, Mulade reflected on the prevailing socio-economic realities confronting the country and the responsibilities of leadership at a critical time in Nigeria’s democratic journey. Mulade stated that Nigerians were currently grappling with severe economic hardship, a situation he said demanded urgent, people-oriented responses from the federal government.

Ododo Seeks Unity, Hard Work, Patriotism Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, extended warm New Year greetings to the people of the state, calling for unity, hard work, and sustained patriotism as the administration intensified efforts to deliver people-oriented governance. In his New Year message, Ododo expressed gratitude to Almighty God for protection and guidance throughout the past year, stating that the period test-ed the resilience of the people but also strengthened their collective resolve. He said despite challenges, the state recorded modest but significant gains across key sectors, including security, infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, and youth and women empowerment, attributing the progress to discipline, unity of purpose, and the cooperation of citizens. Ododo stated, “The New Year presents renewed hope and a stronger resolve by his administration to do more through prudent resource management, inclusive governance, and policies aimed at improving the quality of life of the people, expanding opportunities for youths, empowering women, and strengthening the state’s economy.”

Wike: 2026’ll Mark FCT 50th Anniversary Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, described 2026 as a particularly significant milestone because it marked the 50th anniversary of the creation of the Federal Capital Territory. Wike affirmed this yesterday in a New Year message to residents of the FCT. He added that the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) would not just be commemorating the third anniversary

of the Tinubu administration but planned to mark it by showcasing tangible developments aimed at transforming the lives of residents favourably. The minister said through Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, FCT had witnessed unprecedented development across territory, from the Abuja Municipal to far flung areas, such as Abaji, Kuje and Kwali. He enjoined FCT residents to imbibe the virtues of diligence, discipline, and determination and be law abiding as they navigated the new year together. The FCT minister stated, “The year 2026 as a particularly significant year because it marks the 50th anniversary of the creation of the Federal Capital Territory. “The golden jubilee celebration of the FCT is a testament to the vision of our founding fathers, and to the resilience of Nigerians who have continuously demonstrated the resolve to coexist in peace and unity these past 50 years.”

Najeem Salaam Felicitates People of Osun African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate in Osun State, Dr. Najeem Salaam, felicitated with the people of Osun State on the occasion of the New Year 2026, describing it as a season of renewed hope, unity, and collective resolve for a better future. Salaam thanked the people of the state for their resilience and faith, despite prevailing socio-economic challenges, urging them to remain steadfast and optimistic. “The New Year 2026 presents us with a fresh opportunity to reflect, renew our commitments, and work together for the Osun of our dreams, an Osun that is prosperous, inclusive, and just for all,” he said. The ADC flagbearer emphasised the need for purposeful leadership anchored on transparency, peopleoriented policies, and sustainable development. He said Osun State was endowed with the human and natural resources required to thrive if properly harnessed. He further called on the youth, women, professionals, artisans, and traditional institutions to actively participate in shaping the future of Continued on page 15

THISDAY • FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026

NEWS

2025-26 CROSS-OVER NIGHT SERVICE...

Cross-Over Night to 2026 service held at the Celestial Church of Christ (CCC), Calvary Parish 1, Aguda Ogba, Ikeja, Lagos, led by the Shepherd In Charge, A/M/S/E. Shola Makinde PHOTO: SUNDAY ADIGUN

NNPP Crisis Deepens as Kwankwaso Absent at Governor Yusuf’s New Year Celebrations Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

The national leader of New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Rabiu Kwankwaso, was absent yesterday at the 2026 New Year celebrations by his erstwhile political godson, Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf, fueling insinuations about the deterioration of the crisis plaguing the party. The celebration was initiated during Kwankwaso’s second term as governor, but had now been taken over by the administration of Yusuf. According to sources, Kwankwaso’s absence may not be unconnected to the current crisis rocking the party in the state, following Yusuf’s alleged move to defect to All Progressives

Congress (APC). The former governor, who had never skipped the programme, was believed to be protesting Yusuf’s alleged secret talks with APC and President Bola Tinubu about joining them before the party congress, despite

Kwankwaso’s warning to Yusuf not to join. The mammoth crowd at the event, chanting Kwankwaso and Kwankwasiyya slogans, were visibly disappointed as the former governor could not make it to Filin Mahaha ground

where the occasion took place on the eve of the new year. Speaking at the event, Yusuf declared that 2026 would be a year of progress and development for the youth of the state in all sectors of the economy. He stated, “Our plan for you

this year, our dear youths, is more than you can imagine. 2026 is a new platform for you in which we plan to provide you with job opportunities. “We have named this year, 2026, the year of Kano youths; the year of job provision for youths;

we also declare it as the year for peaceful coexistence in Kano, by the grace of Almighty God. “As you are aware, in this government, providing access to education is our priority, and so, this year is the year of educational development.”

Kabiru Turaki: Our Challenges in PDP Temporary

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

National chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Kabiru Turaki, SAN, has called on members of the party to remain calm and focused, as its challenges of the party are temporarily caused by proxies of All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement he signed, Turaki said, ‘’While the PDP is presently confronted with an induced internal impasse orchestrated by proxies of the ruling party, we assure our teeming supporters and members across the country that these challenges are temporary. “The party remains resilient

and determined to overcome them in order to reclaim its historic role as the vehicle for national rebirth and good governance. “We call on Nigerians to continue praying for our dear country and for the PDP, as we work diligently towards resolving these challenges and

2026: SANWO-OLU, BALA MOHAMMED, MAKINDE, OYEBAMIJI, CAN, OTHERS RAISE HOPE OF NIGERIANS the state, stressing that governance munities have repeatedly come National Electoral Commission to stand firm in prayer and service. should be a collective responsibility. under attacks despite ongoing (INEC) continued voter registration “As we enter the new year, efforts by security agencies to (CVR) exercise, to register to vote 2026, we give thanks to God for Deadly Attack Mars restore peace. in the 2027 general elections. His sustaining mercy through the In a statement, Berom Youths “It is only through this legitimate trials of the past year,” he said. Celebration in Plateau Moulder-Association (BYM) democratic process that we can He acknowledged the economic New Year festivities were condemned the attack, describ- enthrone the leadership we col- hardship, insecurity, and social overshadowed by tragedy in ing it as “a painful reminder of lectively desire for our nation in uncertainty that marked the Plateau State, as suspected armed the persistent threats faced by 2027,” Usman said. outgoing year, stressing that the assailants launched a deadly attack vulnerable communities across She also called on those in posi- Church remains committed to on Bum community in Chugwi, the state”. tion of authority to demonstrate praying, serving, comforting the Vwang District of Jos South Local The association said it was greater empathy in leadership by afflicted, and proclaiming hope Government Area, leaving several closely monitoring developments pursuing policies that genuinely to communities. residents dead and many others and will provide further updates as addressed the needs of the suffering The CAN chairman reminded unaccounted for. more information became available. masses. Christians in Northern Nigeria of The incident, which occurred their dual responsibility as “citizens about 11pm on December 31, 2025, LP Tells Youths to Show Nigeria Needs Economic, of heaven and active participants came at a time when residents Interest in Nation’s Affairs in the nation’s affairs”, stating that Moral, Spiritual Healing were preparing to usher in the the country yearns for healing on in 2026, Declares CAN Labour Party (LP) called on the New Year. multiple fronts. The community was plunged Nigerian youth to show greater Chairman “Our land longs for healing into chaos as gunmen reportedly interest in whatever was going economically, socially, morally, Chairman of Christian Asinvaded the area, opening fire on on in the country. of Nigeria (CAN) in and spiritually,” Pam said. Interim National Chairman of sociation unsuspecting civilians. He urged the Church to respond the 19 Northern States and the As at press time, seven bodies LP, Senator Esther Nenadi Usman, Federal Capital Territory to insecurity, unemployment, rising (FCT), had been recovered, while search in her New Year message, said she Rev. Yakubu Pam, said Nigeria living costs, and communal tensions and rescue operations continued desired a country that worked. needed economic, social, moral, with continuous prayer, wisdom, Usman stated, “Nigeria is amid fears that the casualty figure integrity, and peace, warning healing in 2026. currently haemorrhaging from andInspiritual may rise. against despair and hatred. his New Year message, Local sources told THISDAY the devastating effects of mis- Pam called on Christians to He added, “In the face of that the attack followed an earlier governance, and the effort to remain steadfast in faith, united insecurity, unemployment, rising security alert warning that several rescue her from the clutches of in purpose, and hopeful in the living costs, and communal tencommunities in Jos South Local poor leadership requires far more face of Nigeria’s economic and sions, the Church must continue to Government Area had been than passive interest in the electoral security challenges, as they entered pray without ceasing, speak truth earmarked for possible coordinated process.” with wisdom, remain model peace year 2026. She urged the youth and women theHe assaults. and integrity, resist despair, and expressed gratitude to The latest violence added to to take a more active role in the God for sustaining the Church reject hatred. the growing concerns over the politics and governance of the through the trials of the past year, “We must not allow frustration deteriorating security situation in country, and called on them to take stating that despite hardship and to silence our witness or bitterness Plateau State, where rural com- the advantage of the Independent uncertainty, the Church continued to redefine our faith.”

ending the prolonged hardship imposed on the people by the current administration.” He felicitated with Nigerians on the dawn of a New Year and the opportunity it presented to renew the collective hope for lasting peace, sustainable progress, and shared prosperity for the country. Turaki said, “As Nigeria journeys further into this new year, the PDP reaffirms its unwavering commitment to offering tested, trusted, and people-centred leadership as the only credible opposition and a worthy alternative to the ruling party, which has manifestly failed to provide good governance and economic relief to Nigerians. ‘’Nigerians have borne the brunt of poor policy choices and administrative insensitivity, as evidenced by widespread protests against the arbitrary removal of fuel subsidy without adequate consultation, the reckless floating

of the naira resulting in severe depreciation, and the unjustified increase in electricity tariffs far beyond the reach of the average income earner. “In a further display of arrogance and disregard for public welfare, the government has introduced tax policies that are clearly anti-people and economically suffocating.” He added, ‘’We urge Nigerians to reflect with nostalgia on the era of PDP governance a period marked by relative economic stability, optimism, and progress. “Under the PDP, Nigeria emerged as Africa’s leading economy following the rebasing exercise and ranked among the world’s fastest-growing investment destinations. “That era witnessed significant technological advancement, revitalisation of the railway sector, and notable strides in agricultural development.’’

Mutfwang Quits PDP, May Join APC Yemi Kosoko in Jos

Finally, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, has resigned from Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), ending a longstanding relationship with the party under which he rose to prominence, and signalling a potential shift in the state’s political direction ahead of the 2027 election cycle. In a resignation letter dated December 29, 2025, and addressed to the PDP Ward Chairman of Ampang West Ward, Mangu Local Government Area, Mutfwang expressed

appreciation to the party for the platform it provided throughout his political career. He acknowledged the support of party leaders and members, stating that he remains grateful for the trust placed in him. He said “The realities of the moment” and his commitment to “purposeful leadership, clarity of direction, and service delivery” had compelled him to seek an alternative political platform. The letter was received and acknowledged by Mr. Desjack Sunday, Longvel Ward Chairman, on December 30, 2025.

T H I S D AY • FRIday JaNUaRy 2, 2026

Politics

Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com 08033025611 sMs OnLY

Five Exciting Events to Expect in 2026

Etim Etim writes about five interesting events that will shape the nation’s political landscape in year 2026.

appy New Year! This will be a very big political year. There shall be party congresses, primaries, conventions, campaigns and more defections in 2026, but watch out for these five major political events that will grab national attention and dominate headlines for most of the year. Number one: The entry of Seyi Tinubu into the Lagos governorship race in the second quarter would be one of the most controversial and divisive political events of the year; threatening to tear Lagos APC apart. He would likely be chosen as a consensus governorship candidate, displacing heavyweights like Femi Gbajabiamila, the chief of Staff to the President, and Mudashiru Obasa, Speaker of the Lagos House of Assembly. Both men and other aspirants would be forced to withdraw from the race for the president’s first son, but the protests that would trail his emergence would be reminiscent of the Dapo Sarumi-Agbalajobi contest of 1991 in SDP. Some would defect in protest to other parties and the ensuing battle would be fierce and combustible, fueling a strong possibility of the reenactment of the ethnic tensions that marked the last governorship election in the nation’s tiniest, but most populous state. Seyi Tinubu has the full backing of his father who has maintained a strong grip on Lagos politics since he was elected its governor in 1999. The President decides just about everything in Lagos and influences who gets what in the state. His words carry the weight of the law, and there’s no doubt that he would do everything to further tighten his grip on Lagos and deliver the state to his beloved son. Two, the ADC presidential primary would offer another interesting spectacle. After a long hesitation and careful deliberations, Peter Obi formally joined the party on New Year’s Eve to begin early preparations to challenge Atiku Abubarkar for its presidential ticket. He made the announcement at a rally in Enugu. He moved into ADC with Senator Victor Umeh (Anambra Central); Senator Enyinaya Abaribe (Abia South); Senator Tony Nwonye and other top politicians from the South-East. There were also many other South-East politicians who once dominated the politics of the region under PDP. The contest between Obi and Atiku would be fierce. The former Vice President himself has been preparing for this for years. Rich and well-connected, he’s a veteran of many presidential races dating back to 1993. Obi’s supporters will tout his youth, energy and zoning as his strong points. Atiku will rely on his Northern ancestry and support base, but the fact that he’s running against the well-established principle of rotation will cost him many votes. On the other hand, Obi himself will have to convince a lot of people, especially Northerners that he would serve only one term if elected. If Atiku picks the ticket, he would gladly invite Obi to be his running mate. If Obi declines the offer, Atiku would find it difficult to find a better alternative as most potential picks have since defected to APC. But if Obi accepts to run with Atiku, President Tinubu would face another grueling electoral race. By all standards, ADC’s convention will be one of the most electrifying events of 2026. Three, if the US continues to bomb terrorist positions in Northern Nigeria, there may be dramatic political implications. If the strikes end up reducing terrorist attacks and incidents of kidnappings and banditry to the barest minimum, Tinubu’s approval ratings would soar; but if high collateral damage is recorded and the criminals remain unfazed, the President would suffer severe rejection. Already, many Northern elites have spoken out against the US interventions as if they enjoy seeing innocent blood being spilt, while Christian leaders across the country have welcomed the strikes and praised the US President for coming to their help. Four, Rivers politics is also one to watch in 2026. The truce brokered by President Tinubu

between the FCT Minister and Governor Sim Fubara has broken down. Nyesome Wike has vowed to stop Fubara from seeking second term. The FCT Minister has begun a tour of the state to campaign for the President and whip up sentiments against the governor. Fubara is banking on the support from President Tinubu to secure a second term ticket under APC. It’s likely that Wike himself would defect to APC sometime in 2026, but will Tinubu allow Wike to import his troubles into APC? Five, Akwa Ibom politics will also offer

another exciting story. With the defection of Governor Umo Eno, the PDP has been emptied out and the state has suddenly become a one-party state. But former Governor Udom Emmanuel is still in the PDP, trying to plot a new direction. He made initial attempts at rebuilding the PDP in the state, convened meetings, established a caretaker committee to manage the party and even attended the party’s convention in Ibadan with some supporters from the state. He facilitated the selection of his ally, Ini Ememobong, as an NWC member. But with INEC withholding

its recognition for that faction of the party due to pending litigations, the former governor has been left in a limbo. Over the holidays, he sounded conciliatory. In his Christmas message, he asked Nigerians to rally around President Tinubu to fight terrorism; but did not utter a word on his successor. He is however said to be talking to the Atiku Abubarkar group in ADC for a possible Vice Presidential ticket. A truly thrilling year is upon us. -Etim writes from Abuja.

Ukraine–Russia War: A Divided World and Africa’s Call for Peace

What initially appeared to be a conflict between neighbouring countries with a long history of political alignment—Ukraine and Russia—has evolved into a protracted war that has deeply divided the international community, with no clear end in sight. although Nigeria, and indeed the entire african continent, have consistently called for a peaceful resolution, the conflict continues to generate far-reaching political, economic, and humanitarian consequences globally, Michael Olugbode reports.

he war between Ukraine and Russia has become one of the defining conflicts of the 21st century. What began as a dispute rooted in history, identity and post-cold war security arrangements escalated in February, 2022 into a full-scale invasion that has reshaped global politics, energy markets, food security and international norms. While the battlefield lies in Eastern Europe, the consequences are global — and they are being felt sharply across Africa. From rising food prices and inflation to energy insecurity and diplomatic fragmentation, the conflict has reinforced a hard reality: modern wars rarely remain regional. As the fighting drags on, the key question confronting the international community is no longer just when the war will end, but how — and whose interests will ultimately shape that ending. Historical Roots and Security Tensions Ukraine and Russia share deep historical and cultural ties tracing back to Kievan Rus’, the medieval polity centred in present-day Kyiv. Over centuries, Ukrainian territories shifted between European and Russian

control, producing overlapping identities but also long-standing resentment. Following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, Ukraine emerged as an independent state. Russia recognised that independence, but continued to view Ukraine as part of its strategic sphere of influence. Kyiv’s gradual movement toward the European Union and

NATO — especially after the 2013–2014 Euromaidan protests — marked a decisive break from Moscow’s orbit and triggered Russia’s annexation of Crimea and support for separatists in eastern Ukraine. NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

THISDAY • FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026

POLITY

Time, Tragedy, Nigeria: Looking Ahead into 2026 John Segun Odeyemi

hronos – time, they say is the judge of history. Time also goes by quietly and mostly cannot be regained. On the first day of a new year (2026), we have a sacred duty, like the two-faced Greek God Janus (from where we get January), look back before we can look into the future. Whenever we fail to act righteously, justly and truthfully in time, we allow evil to mature in and through time. Nigeria, its leadership, and its people have wasted time. Instead of building, we have been tearing down. Instead of fighting corruption, we have nursed and enabled it. Instead of virtue, we have chosen vice for far too long. And time keeps going leaving our nation and its hubris to dwell in the darkness that it has chosen. All the tragic drama of 2025 is basically our chickens coming back home to roost. Beyond the violence, carnage and the incineration of entire communities, we forget that time records history by which tomorrow will remember our names and times. The tragedy of a nation is exposed when men/ women who hold power sacrifice the truth for political and economic expediencies. More tragic is when the ruling class no longer are able to distinguish the difference between moral rectitude and deformed (and often time deranged) appetite for avarice and greed. A nation’s termination is marked when the rule of law is jettisoned for cabalistic interests, when various factions exist in their own bragging rights and operate according to their own laws with unbridled impunity. The bellicosity, gargantuan appetites, and absurdities which have become the hall mark of the Nigerian elitist political class has found an insidious way to replicate itself in the majority of the populace creating a conflicting dilemma of a “rat race,” a situation of “a survival of the fittest.” If as Plato said, “you do not take an interest in the affairs of your government, then you are doomed to live under the rule of fools.” And yet time keeps running by… The Nunc-dimittis begins to sing itself as a dirge for a nation where the lives of the citizens are worth less than that of a cow. An entire nation looks on as maniacs, emboldened state and non-state

President BolaTinubu actors decimate mosques, churches and sack entire villages. The real beasts are not only the notorious “Fulani” herdsmen, Boko Harram, kidnappers, armed robbers, and terrorists who have successfully, over the years created a parallel state within our nation; the real beasts are those who strut in the corridors of power, who sponsor, abet, and enable anarchists, acting with arrogance and impunity. Worse still is the impotence of the nation’s governance to call these known puppeteers to justice. The puerility of our nation’s erstwhile almost invincible military might seem to have become a toothless bulldog, scraggly mongrel about to sink into the dusk of past military glory. The Nigerian military can quell a coup within twenty fours hours in a neighbouring country but at home is unable to suppress anarchists and terrorists. Again, time will be the judge! No rational person pretends to sleep through a

storm. s/he acknowledges the fact when the roof is on fire and acts proactively to save life and if possible, property; that is facing reality not some delusional optimism where you consciously avoid the elephant in the room and applaud inessentials germane to your welfare and longevity. We have at best a government lacking in clear ability to logically process issues. Rather, they act on impulse, a sudden adrenaline rush to the head. One after another, they make decisions that make one wonder which part of their physiology they reason from? Otherwise, how do you explain the capture of insurgents who have terrorized, maimed and murdered innocent citizens, then the government claims they are rehabilitated and immediately enroll them in the nation’s army? How does one logically process the fact that the government of Nigeria have a comprehensive list of those sponsoring banditry and terrorism, and they are walking free, worse still they are participants in governance. It is only in Nigeria that we have different government and non-governmental actors negotiating between our nation’s invaders, plunderers, rapist and mass murderers, and they speak boldly and act impunitively. These vile characters, at this time, hold an entire nation in a vice grip of death. Time will be the judge! Even at this miserable time, those who are in power are in denial. It is only by the intervention of the US that the sleeping giant is beginning to stare- but not yet awake. Why should other nations have to tell us what we know already; that our nation is a joke, which for years we have avoided confronting? Clowns, career criminals, and near neanderthals are the ruling class and you expect to build a nation? They change the story to fit their own narrative without an iota of respect for truth and decency. To our national disgrace, there are people who are voicing publicly that the rest of the nation at some point maltreated the murderous herdsmen and now they are reacting. Only compound idiots will argue in this manner, hoping that they are addressing people who are fools! We have too many interlocutors who inject themselves into the national debate, and while there is no need for too much scrutiny, you can easily tell that these are candidates for the psychiatry wards. The working class have been beaten black and blue

so regularly that they no longer understand they are abused. The intellectuals of the nation are the worst – they have perfected the art of double speak, reconstruction and lies; clergy, judges, professors, royalties, industrialists – most have sold out, betrayed the idea of a once dreamed of nation. They construct a vision of only today, forgetting that time flexes backwards and forwards. Even the Holy Book talks about the “hour of darkness”, in which humanity when acting from a position of greed – “they prefer to hide in the darkness so that their wickedness is not known.” They all forget that after dusk, dawn arrives, “and all that is done in darkness will be shown in bright day light.” All in time, all in God’s own time. One of the greatest tragedies for a people is to have leadership where power is grabbed for power’s sake. The incompetence of the power grabbers is for the necessary chaos that is to ensue, because each person acts based solely on their natural ability and aptitude. If you elect a clown as your leader, do not feign surprise when he turns the seat of power into a circus. So also, if you elect a kleptomaniac and people of shady character, why show surprise when they embezzle from the nation’s commonwealth. Beyond rational comprehension, we find politicians starching away billions that they are unable to use even if they were given three lifetimes. This is the madness from the gods which precedes self-destruction… We keep wasting time, we keep wondering what happened to our country. The nation was built on a false premise of unwilling bedfellows, and not until we separate our huts will each be able to sleep as they wish, we shall continue to butt heads. We have wasted enough time! We are at the beginning of a new year; we need to reconfigure how we use our time to benefit every citizen of Nigeria. Unfortunately, this year, I am unable to offer you the traditional and often regurgitated greetings, “Happy new year.” The only way to peace and a happy new year is known to all of us: simply put, Decentralize Governance, construct a constitution that works for a democratic system and Go Back to the Regions! Tempus fugit. Carpe Diem! •John Segun Odeyemi, Asst. Prof. of Systematic Theology (IBCS), New Orleans, Louisiana.

TRIBUTE

Michael Arokodare: A Life of Intellect, Focus and Integrity

Taye Ige

s I stepped into his tastefully appointed residence in high-brow Ikoyi this Boxing Day for what was a quietly dignified sit-out to mark his 66th birthday, I was struck by a deep sense of gratitude to God. Gratitude for the life of a man who, by every measure, deserves the serenity, peace, and fulfillment that now surround him. Michael Abiodun Arokodare - fondly called MA by close family members —has lived a life that naturally attracts honour. Not by noise or self-promotion, but by consistency of character, depth of purpose, and a generosity of spirit that has touched countless lives. In his native Ijero-Ekiti, the traditional institution, led by the revered Owa-Ajero, has formally installed him as the Asiwaju of the town—a frontline leader in the truest sense. Among ordinary townsfolk, he is affectionately called “Olórò”, the man of wealth. Yet, what truly distinguishes him in the eyes of both royalty and commoner alike is not merely material success, but highimpact philanthropy rooted in wisdom, guidance, and an uncommon ability to inspire, influence, and lead. Snr Arokodare’s journey of excellence began early. A proud alumnus of Doherty Memorial Grammar School (DMGS), Ijero-Ekiti, he distinguished himself as

Global President, Pastor Sanya Olagunju (1977), second from right; Hon. Vice President, Engr. Joshua Obabiolorunkosi (1983), extreme right; Member BoT, DMGS-ETF, Barrister Bamidele Adebayo (1983), centre; Immediate Past Global President, Biodun Arokodare, (1976), second from left; Hon. President, 1980 set, Taye Ige, (1980) extreme left; at the birthday event for Dr Arokodare in Lagos...recently.

the best student in his class, earning the prestigious role of School Library Prefect in his final year—an honour reserved only for the most exceptional. His academic brilliance paved the way for a sterling professional career as a chartered accountant, culminating in his fellowship of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria and a doctorate in his field. Yet, these accomplishments were only chapters in a much larger story. Years later, our paths crossed again when he assumed office as Global President of the DMGS Old Students

Association Worldwide. In that role, he provided visionary leadership, most notably steering the planning and execution of the School’s 70th Founder’s Day Anniversary, an event that was both impactful and historic. Under his watch, the Endowment Trust Fund was institutionalised, laying a solid foundation for improved infrastructure and sustainable development in the School —an enduring legacy for generations yet unborn. Philanthropy, for Michael Arokodare, is not an obligation; it is a lifestyle. He gives quietly, deliberately shunning the spotlight and avoiding publicity.

Together with his wife, Grace Bolanle Arokodare—herself an accomplished professional, a fellow DMGS alumnus, and a Pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God—their generosity dots the landscape of every institution they attended, from primary school through university. Their compassion further extends profoundly into their church life in the Redeemed Christian Church of God where they established an Endowment Trust Fund for widows, a touching testament to their shared commitment to lifting the vulnerable.

Only a few weeks ago, I had the privilege of visiting Dr Arokodare in his Lagos office on behalf of the DMGS 1980 Set, following our successful 45th Graduation Anniversary. As the current President of the Set, the visit was an opportunity to express our gratitude for his support. It also afforded me a rare moment to ask him about the philosophy behind his lifelong generosity. His response was simple, profound, and revealing: life is ephemeral. To him, clinging tightly to material possessions makes little sense when the true purpose of life is to give, to serve, and to uplift others. Here, indeed, stands a man richly endowed with intellect, unwavering focus, disciplined diligence, and a heavy content of integrity. These virtues have shaped not only his professional success and philanthropic reach, but also his deep sense of gratitude, contentment, and fulfillment in retirement. Today, as we celebrate Michael Abiodun Arokodare FCA, PhD at 66, we honour a life well lived and still giving. His journey continues to inspire, his legacy continues to speak, and his impact continues to grow quietly but powerfully. May the years ahead bring you renewed strength, abiding peace, and the joy of seeing lives continually transformed through your example. Happy 66th Birthday, sir.

PERSPECTIVE

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026 • THISDAY

As Justice Adumein Challenges Corruption ISSUE By Louis Achi

ccording to former Secretary-General of the United Nations Ban Kimoon, “The fight against corruption is the fight for the future. Corruption corrodes the fabric of society and undermines trust.” The world’s former top diplomat’s position certainly finds fundamental resonance with the position recently canvassed by Justice of the Supreme Court, Moore Abraham Aseimo Adumein. Justice Adumein had recently declared that the nation’s justice system depends on credible evidence, effective investigation, and proper handling of cases while commending the Chartered Institute of Forensics and Certified Fraud Investigators of Nigeria (CIFCFIN), for deploying cutting edge technology and forensic tools to root out corruption and financial crimes in the country. “This is a game changer in winning the war on corruption and financial crimes currently bleeding the country dry,” His Lordship proclaimed recently during the Institute’s 9th Direct membership training graduation and Fellowship award ceremony at EFCC Academy in Abuja, shortly after his conferment as a Fellow of the Institute. According to Justice Adumein, “CIFCFIN continues to engage with international investigative frameworks and proposes their adoption in sensitive national processes, such as the electoral system management and public sector reforms. These practices must be guided by credible reports, transparency, and professionalism.” The circumspect Supreme Court Justice also added that one of the most outstanding achievements of CIFCFIN is the training and capacity building of over 5,000 forensic professionals across Nigeria and beyond since its inception. His words: “This is no small effort. It has deepened institutional knowledge, expanded professional competence, and enhanced our ability to respond to complex realities. Through this work, the institute has positioned both public and private organisations to adopt structured forensic methodologies.” For good measure, he added the institute’s efforts had strengthened transparency, reinforced control systems, and improved organisational resilience, noting that the efforts had significantly contributed to a world where institutions must address increasingly sophisticated threats and challenges. With a significant sense of history laced with awareness of effective nation building, Justice Adumein brought even sharper clarity and urgency to his position. His words: “Winning the war against corruption is a task for all Nigerians. We should always examine our consciences and if we do so by standing firm, honest, just and equitable in what we do in our respective offices or in all areas of our

Justice Adumein

endeavour. “I can tell you that we will live up to some of the portions of our renewed National Anthem, and we will definitely build a nation ‘where no man is oppressed, a nation blessed with peace and plenty, and handover to our children banners without stain.’” He correctly stressed that forensic practice has moved to the centre of justice administration, providing clarity, supporting evidence-based conclusions, and strengthening accountability. The Justice was further quoted as saying that, “Forensic practice supports this directly and indirectly, strengthening both operational processes and institutional integrity.” It could be recalled that on receiving the news of his winning the 2017 Nobel prize in literature, the British author Kazuo Ishiguro observed that, “It comes at a time when the world is uncertain about its values, its leadership and its safety.” Today, Nigeria is uncertain about its values, its leadership and its safety. And according to emerging consensus, a key take off point of changing this regressive narrative is caging corruption. Lending a bold voice to this transformational project, especially from the conservative background of the nation’s apex judicial establishment, speaks to new hope of a new Nigeria. Significantly, Justice Adumein has an impeccable track record in the Nigerian judiciary long before his ascension to the

Supreme Court. This visibly informed his choice as one of the few Nigerians on the bench found worthy and given approval to undertake a Post Graduate Certificate course in Corruption Studies at Hong Kong University in collaboration with the world-renowned Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) Academy, Hong Kong. Perhaps, not surprisingly, the President and Chairman-in-Council, CICFIN, Dr. Iliyasu Gashinbaki, said that Justice Adumein is an anti-corruption warrior who the Institute is privileged to have as an ally “as we roll up our sleeves to root out corruption, fraud and other financial crimes in Nigeria.” This is also a good time to recall former French president, Giscard D’Estaing’s counsel to statesmen and world leaders: “There can be no response to history without effort.” D’Estaing’s sage counsel was clearly inspired by the environment of the human crisis that defined his era. He was born during the First World War and fought in the second bloody, global conflagration. Cut to the bone, D’Estaing’s core, timeless message was simply that there can be no meaningful response to history, no transformative change without concomitant effort, especially at a time of crisis. By speaking genuinely to the issues that bog the national journey and endanger the nation-state, Justice Adumein is keying into the sage counsel

of the former French president, as well as reaffirming the sturdy principles that have driven his professional trajectory to-date. Corruption is indisputably a complex phenomenon that continues to persist in many countries across the world. It has a direct impact on the three dimensions of sustainable development - social, economic and environmental - and affects each of the five pillars of the 2030 agenda: people, planet, prosperity, peace and partnerships. Despite progress, corruption is still a pressing challenge. Resources lost to corruption globally exceed the estimated $10 trillion required to eradicate poverty by 2030. Money lost to corruption is development denied to those most at risk of being left behind. In Nigeria, despite the massive efforts being made by the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration to stem the malaise, corruption remains an existential challenge to be conquered. The process is undoubtedly on. But it definitely needs powerful voices from powerful establishments to speak up and dig in for the long haul. Justice of the Supreme Court, Moore Abraham Aseimo Adumein is clearly one such voice and from one such establishment. And just as Ban Ki-moon accurately proclaimed: “The fight against corruption is the fight for the future. Corruption corrodes the fabric of society and undermines trust.” The fight for Nigeria’s future must indeed begin today.

T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026

MARKET NEWS A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return. An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange. A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange. GUIDE TO DATA: Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 30 December 2025, unless otherwise stated.

Offer price: The price at which units of a trust or ETF are bought by investors. Bid Price: The price at which Investors redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF. Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total return an investor would have earned on his investment. Money Market Funds report Yield while others report Year- to-date Total Return. NAV: Is value per share of the real estate assets held by a REIT on a specific date.

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS MUTUAL FUNDS / UNIT TRUSTS

AFRINVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD aaml@afrinvest.com Web: www.afrinvest.com; Tel: +234 818 885 6757 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Afrinvest Equity Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Afrinvest Plutus Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Nigeria International Debt Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Afrinvest Dollar Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 ALPHA MORGAN CAPITAL MANAGERS LTD mutualfund@alphamorgan.com Web: www.alphamorgan.com, Tel: +2347018898523 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ALPHA MORGAN BALANCED FUND 2,220.54 2,239.56 46.44% AIICO CAPITAL LTD ammf@aiicocapital.com Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AIICO Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 18.40% AIICO Balanced Fund 7.81 7.92 36.64% AIICO Eurobond Fund 100.00 100.00 6.32% Web:www.anchoriaam.com, Tel: 08166830267; 08036814510; 08028419180 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Anchoria Money Market 100.00 100.00 17.95% Anchoria Equity Fund 1.63 1.63 24.41% Anchoria Fixed Income Fund 409.55 414.49 58.51% ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD enquiries@arminvestmentcenter.com info@anchoriaam.com Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Aggressive Growth Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 ARM Discovery Balanced Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 ARM Ethical Fund 0.00 0.00 51.30% ARM Eurobond Fund 1.23 1.23 10.81% ARM Fixed Income Fund 1.38 1.38 20.32% ARM Short Term Bond Fund 1.21 1.21 17.13% ARM Shariah Fixed Income Fund 1.15 1.15 13.50% ARM Short Term Eurobond Fund 1.05 1.05 5.07% ARM Specialized Dollar Fund 1.05 1.05 4.60% ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 17.49% AVA GLOBAL ASSET MANAGERS LIMITED info@avacapitalgroup.com Web: www.avacapitalgroup.com; Tel 08069294653 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 121.78 121.78 17.10% AVA GAM Fixed Income Dollar Fund 1,265.88 1265.88 17.89% AVA GAM Fixed Income (Naira) Fund 1.00 1.00 16.29% AVA GAM Money Market Fund AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED investmentcare@axamansard.com Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 0.00 0.00 0.00 AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 AXA Mansard Money Market Fund CAPITAL EXPRESS ASSET AND TRUST LIMITED info@capitalexpressassetandtrust.com Web: www.capitalexpressassetandtrust.com; Tel: +234 803 307 5048 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 2.74 2.74 11.25% CEAT Fixed Income Fund 6.00 6.14 31.72% Capital Express Balanced Fund(Formerly: Union Trustees Mixed Fund) CARDINALSTONE ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfunds@cardinalstone.com Web: www.cardinalstoneassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 (1) 710 0433 4 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 1.08 1.08 13.37% CardinalStone Fixed Income Alpha Fund 1.12 1.12 10.52% CardinalStone Dollar Fund 1.85 1.88 56.20% CardinalStone Equity Fund 1.24 1.25 24.45% CardinalStone Balanced Fund 1.00 1.00 18.57% CardinalStone Money Market Fund CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD investmentmanagement@chapelhilldenham.com Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Chapel Hill Denham Money Market Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Nigeria Bond Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Paramount Equity Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmgtteam@cordros.com Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 17.67% 112.24 112.24 12.72% Cordros Fixed Income Fund 122.78 122.78 11.89% Cordros Halal Fixed Income Fund Cordros Dollar Fund ($) 118.84 118.84 6.98% Cordros Milestone Fund 230.75 232.44 25.18% CORONATION ASSETS MANAGEMENT investment@coronationam.com Web:www.coronationam.com, Tel: 012366215 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coronation Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 17.32% Coronation Balanced Fund 2.12 2.16 29.03% Coronation Fixed Income Fund 1.53 1.53 11.86% EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfundng@ecobank.com Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 EDC Nigeria Balanced Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 EDC Nigeria Halal Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 EMERGING AFRICA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@emergingafricafroup.com Web:www.emergingafricagroup.com/emerging-africa-asset-management-limited/, Tel: 08039492594 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Emerging Africa Money Market Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Emerging Africa Bond Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Emerging Africa Balanced Diversity Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Emerging Africa Eurobond Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Emerging Africa Halal Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 FBNQUEST ASSETS MANAGEMENT LIMITED invest@fbnquest.com Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn First Asset Money Market Fund 100 100 17.12% First Asset Bond Fund 1665.94 1665.94 11.06% First Asset Dollar Fund 127.87 127.87 7.18% First Asset Halal Fund 142.24 142.24 14.10% First Asset Specialised Dollar Fund 124.65 124.65 7.50% First Asset Balanced Fund 427.26 431.37 44.91% First Asset Smart Beta Equity Fund 449.8 456.1 55.99% First Asset Blended Dollar Fund 112.03 112.03 12.03% FCMB ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED fcmbamhelpdesk@fcmb.com Web: www.fcmbassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Legacy Money Market Fund (LMMF) 1.00 1.00 0.00% Legacy Debt Fund (LDF) 1.48 1.48 6.92% Legacy Equity Fund (LEF) 3.61 3.63 -0.32% Legacy USD Bond Fund (LUBF) 5.52 5.65 48.33% FCMB-TLG Private Debt Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00% FSL ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED Adeniran.Daniel@fsl.ng Web: https://www.fsl.ng/asset-management ; Tel: +2348062727759 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FSL Money Market Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 FSL Euro Bond 0.00 0.00 0.00 FIRST ALLY ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED blossom.omojughare@first-ally.com Web: https://first-allyasset.com/ ; Tel: +2348023217850 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FAAM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 19.48% FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD coralfunds@fsdhgroup.com Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coral income fund 4,751.05 4,751.05 8.39%

Coral money market fund 100.00 100.00 17.35% FSDH HALAL FUND 1,324.46 1,324.46 11.61% FSDH dollar fund 1.34 1.34 6.10% Coral Balanced Fund 11,174.22 11,258.00 46.36% HILLCREST CAPITAL MANAGEMENT dabbey@hillcrestcapmgt.com Web: https://hillcrestcapmgt.com/; Tel: +2348075144540, 0214540094 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Hillcrest Balanced Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 LOTUS CAPITAL LTD fincon@lotuscapitallimited.com Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn LOTUS HALAL FIXED INCOME FUND 0.00 0.00 0.00 LOTUS HALAL INVESTMENT FUND 0.00 0.00 0.00 LOTUS HALAL EQUITY EXCHANGE TRADED FUND 0.00 0.00 0.00 LOTUS WAQF ENDOWMENT FUND 0.00 0.00 0.00 MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD info@meristemwealth.com Web: www.meristemwealth.com/funds/; Tel: +2348028496012 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Meristem Equity Market Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Meristem Value ETF 0.00 0.00 0.00 Meristem Growth ETF 0.00 0.00 0.00 Meristem Fixed Income Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Meristem Dollar Income Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Meristem Money Market Mutual Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 MANGO ASSET MANAGEMENT jetadafe@mangoam.com Web:https://mangoam.com/; Tel: +234 7030839517 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Mango Naira Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 17.31% NORRENBERGER INVESTMENT AND CAPITAL MANAGEMENT LIMITED

enquiries@norrenberger.com

Web: www.norrenberger.com, Tel: +234 (0) 908 781 2026 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Norrenberger Money Market Fund (NMMF) 0.00 0.00 0.00 Norrenberger Islamic Fund (NIF) 0.00 0.00 0.00 NORRENBERGER DOLLAR FUND (NDF)-----($) 0.00 0.00 0.00 NORRENBERGER TURBO FUND (NTF)-----(N) 0.00 0.00 0.00 PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD info@pacassetmanagement.com Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM Balanced Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 PACAM Fixed Income Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 PACAM Money Market Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 PACAM Equity Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 PACAM EuroBond Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 SCM CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED info@scmcapitalng.com Web: www.scmcapitalng.com; Tel: +234 1-280 2226,+234 1- 280 2227 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn The Frontier Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 SFS CAPITAL NIGERIA LTD investments@sfsnigeria.com Web: www.sfsnigeria.com, Tel: +234 (01) 2801400 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SFS Fixed Income Fund 1.15 1.15 17.05% SFS REIT 174.00 174.00 25.15% UH REIT/SFS 62.74 62.74 20.37% STANBIC IBTC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD assetmanagement@stanbicibtc.com Web: www.stanbicibtcassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 280 1266; 0700 MUTUALFUNDS Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) Stanbic IBTC Shariah Fixed Income Fund Stanbic IBTC Enhanced Short-Term Fixed Income Fund Stanbic IBTC Absolute Fund UPDC REIT Stanbic IBTC Balanced Fund Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 Fund Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund Stanbic IBTC Imaan Fund Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund SIAML Pension ETF 40 Stanbic IBTC Aggressive Fund Stanbic IBTC Conservative Fund

STL ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED Web: WWW.STLASSETMGT.COM; Tel: 8136115170 Fund Name STL MONEY MARKET FUND STL BALANCED FUND STL DOLLAR FUND

UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 01-6317876 Fund Name United Capital Money Market Fund United Capital Sukuk Fund United Capital Fixed Income Fund United Capital Nigerian Eurobond Fund United Capital Global Fixed Income Fund United Capital Stable Income Fund United Capital Equity Fund United Capital Balanced Fund United Capital Wealth for Women Fund United Capital Children Investment Fund VETIVA FUND MANAGERS LTD Web: www.vetiva.com; Tel: +234 1 453 0697 Fund Name Vetiva Banking Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Consumer Goods Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Griffin 30 Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Money Market Fund Vetiva Industrial Goods Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva S&P Nigeria Sovereign Bond Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva USD Fixed Income Fund QUANTUM ZENITH ASSET MANAGEMENT & INVESTMENTS LTD Web: www.quantumzenith.com.ng; Tel: +234 1-2784219 Fund Name Zenith Balanced Strategy Fund Zenith Income Fund Zenith Income Fund Zenith Money Market Fund ZEDCREST INVESTMENT MANAGER LIMITED Web: www.zedcrestwealth.com; Tel: +2348075881240 Fund Name Zedcrest Money Market Fund Zedcrest Fixed Inocme Fund Zedcrest Dollar Fund REITS Fund Name SFS REIT UPDC REIT

0.00 259.24 1.67 144.34 161.30 12.41 12.41 9,674.70 308.11 4.46 384.92 934.49 42,075.58 409.08 12,502.95 9,342.45

0.00 259.24 1.67 144.34 161.30 12.41 12.41 9,762.29 313.44 4.52 385.27 946.27 42,653.36 416.13 12,663.88 9,377.13

17.02% 0.30% 6.99% 8.29% 18.18% 10.17% 10.31% 51.66% -24.20% -97.77% 8.77% 87.54% 66.02% -49.06%

56.11% 37.42% jemenike@stlassetmgt.com

Bid Price 0.00 0.00 0.00

Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 unitedcapitalplcgroup.com

Bid Price 1.00 1.23 1.98 124.76 1.25 128.93 1.92 2.22 1.79 1.13

Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 1.00 16.14% 1.23 14.53% 1.98 10.03% 124.76 9.23% 1.25 4.54% 128.93 5.85% 1.94 46.97% 2.23 32.24% 1.80 37.47% 1.13 13.53% funds@vetiva.com

Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 15.90 15.00 28.44% 39.63 39.73 103.49% 55.91 56.11 77.23% 1.00 1.00 17.70% 56.74 56.94 48.15% 142.42 144.45 1.95% 1.00 1.00 17.70% service@quantumzenithasset.com.ng Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 34.14 34.54 60.52% 40.22 40.59 51.03% 30.30 30.30 8.60% 1.00 1.00 17.23% investmentoperations@zedcrest.com Bid Price 1.00 1.37 $ 1.49

Offer Price 1.00 1.37 $ 1.49

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn 19.89% 27.78% 19.65% Yield / T-Rtn

0.00

0.00%

9,377.13

37.42%

The value of investments and the income from them may fall as well as rise. Past performance is a guide and not an indication of future returns. Fund prices published in this edition are also available on each fund manager’s website and FMAN’s website at www.fman.com.ng. Fund prices are supplied by the operator of the relevant fund and are published for information purposes only.

T H I S D AY FRIDAY JANUARY 2, 2026 20 TR

UT H

& RE A S O

Friday January 2, 2026 Vol 27. No 11229

opinion@thisdaylive.com

www.thisdaylive.com

A COLLECTIVE TRIUMPH

Umo Eno wins NEAPS Award, writes MARTINS AKPAN

See page 21

THE YEAR OF POLITICS AND ECONOMIC CONSOLIDATION? Even with all its significance, nothing decisive can be said about the new year, argues JOSHUA J. OMOJUWA

See page 21

EDITORIAL

RISING CASES OF FOOD POISONING

See page 22

UCHE OKORONKWO UCHE offers mid-term assessment of the upper house of the National Assembly

MILESTONES AND BENDS OF THE 10TH SENATE In a manner of expression and to underscore the power of relationship, or symbiotic interaction, there is a saying that the life of water is the life of fish. Similarly, many governance commentators hold the view that the presence of democracy is signified by the presence of legislature. This underscores the consensus that the legislature is the most distinguishing feature of a democracy or democratic government. In other words, the presence of legislature is the presence of democracy and the absence of a parliament is the absence of democracy. It's probably in this sense that philosophers view the legislature as a foundational institution of democracy, essential for people representation, executive power control and upholding the rule of law. Although scholars and philosophers perspectives varied on the relevance of the legislature, there is a consensus gentium on the idea that the legitimacy and stability of democratic government depend on a legislative body which the popular expectation and will into law while also upholding principles of justice and freedom. It is in keeping with the norms and nuances of the democratic process that Nigerians voted for a new set of leaders to steer the ship of state in the 2023 general elections. Therefore, in furtherance of upholding with the traditions of democratic system of government, the Senate on the 13th of June 2023 elected Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio as the 10th Senate President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. In his inauguration acceptance speech, Senator Akpabio assured Nigerians that he was mindful of the enormous responsibilities that the position he assumed and occupy on behalf of Nigerians. That he was mindful of the enormous responsibilities that the position demands stating that it was time to go forward and promulgate laws and enactments to enhance the well-being and security of the country, exercise its role of checks on/over the executive through legislative oversight functions. The President of the Senate enthused that the Senate under his watch shall reach and surpass the expectations of Nigerians in building a better, safer, more inclusive, prosperous, efficient and ethical country. His Excellency, Senator Godswill Akpabio nudged his colleagues to join him in strengthening the legislative space by latching onto the legislative agenda inherited from the Senator Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan led 9th Senate which included gender issues, persons with special needs, youths engagement,

empowerment and rewards, expansion of revenue streams, and legislate on economic viability, social acceptability and environmental sustainability in line with the programmes and policies espoused by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Two years down the line, Nigerians and indeed observers of governance processes in Africa’s largest democracy have begun to carry out evaluation of the performances of the current administration as it relates particularly to the legislative arm. Political observers have been evaluating the scorecard of the Akpabio led Senate. Observers and analysts are considering what has been the journey so far, the milestones, the bends and expectations from the 10th Senate under the captainship of the uncommon leader, Senator Godswill Akpabio. Speaking from the achievements perspectives, observers and commentators, are of the opinion that the 10th Senate major attainments lies more on the side of its supportive role to the executive arm. These they say, include the routine duties of passage of budgets including the Rivers State emergency rule appropriation law midwifed by sole administrator Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas. On record, the current senate has the bragging right of passing the nation’s highest budget figure so far totaling N54.99 trillion tagged budget of restoration as well as the passage of critical executive bills chief among which the tax reform Act. However, there is accord of opinion that the half time performance of the 10th Senate was characterized more by the setbacks it faced than its accomplishments. Nigerians quickly point to the lingering issue of security challenges. Insecurity has remained Nigeria's primal worry. This challenge though inherited from previous administration, has taken a toll on the time resource of the red chamber due to series of attention directed to seeking solutions. Those legislative interventions through motions, resolutions, meetings

with security chiefs, and other behind the scene involvements, have not shown any measurable outcome. The Senate has also been troubled by late commencement and lack of result in the constitution amendment process. Like its previous tenure’s the 10th Senate failed to break the jinx connected with constitutional alteration. Yes, it is a rigorous process, it is of great concern that the Senate in particular and the National Assembly in general choose to pile up several items for amendment rather than pick some bills and push them to a conclusive end within a give time frame. For example, it is weird to push or recommend over fifty items for constitutional alteration which we all agree, is rigorous in all its forms. This approach is a reason why some observers see the zonal public hearings as jamborees and expenses without evidence of value for money. Again, the 10th Senate in the first half of play failed to scale the expected performance bar when evaluated on the basis of adequate or effective oversight. As the curtain dropped at the half-line mark, the Senate had been conducting major investigations including inquiry of the Thirty Trillion Naira Ways and Means expenditure by former President Buhari administration and over eleven thousand abandoned projects across the country. Failure to carry out adequate and effective oversight speaks to promises made but not kept. In his address on inauguration day, promised that the Senate under his watch, will put the executive on their toes especially the ministers. He declared, “I have an opportunity of serving as a governor and I warned my people who worked with me that I didn’t steal to invest in politically motivated infrastructure. Therefore, we shall carry out very serious oversight functions to ensure the protection of the resources of the country.” He went further to add: “We will not betray the people of Nigeria. Government is a continuum and the Senate is no less. We will strengthen the legislative space in continuation of the laudable efforts made by the 9th Senate….”. After the half hour whistle, the Senate in the view of observers can only boast of routine budget defence sessions as there has not been any bold move by the upper chamber to oversight the ministries as promised by His Excellency, Senator Godswill Akpabio. There is also the gale of suspensions of its members which brought the Chamber to public crucible. By this the 10th Senate seemingly earned the enviable record of scoring the highest earliest own goal since 1999 - the first to suspend two senators within two years of inauguration. ucheokoronkwouche@gmail.com

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FRIDAY JANUARY 2, 2026

Umo Eno wins NEAPS Award, writes MARTINS AKPAN

A COLLECTIVE TRIUMPH When Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State stepped forward to receive the Nigeria Excellence Awards in Public Service (NEAPS) for Sustainable Development and Community Empowerment, the moment carried significance far beyond personal acclaim. Conferred at the Conference Centre of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, and presented on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, the award symbolised national recognition of a governance philosophy rooted in inclusion, sustainability and grassroots impact. For many in Akwa Ibom, it was not just a proud moment, it was validation. Speaking from Uyo shortly after the ceremony, the Deputy Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, KufreAbasi Edidem, captured the prevailing sentiment succinctly. He described the honour as a collective accolade for the people of Akwa Ibom State, whose lives, he said, have continued to improve under Governor Eno’s people-centred leadership. The NEAPS award for Sustainable Development and Community Empowerment is among Nigeria’s most prestigious recognitions for public service, celebrating leaders whose policies translate into measurable social and economic outcomes. Governor Umo Eno’s selection places him among a growing cadre of leaders redefining governance as a tool for shared prosperity rather than elite advantage. According to Edidem, the award reflects the governor’s unwavering commitment to sustainable development, grassroots empowerment and inclusive governance—core pillars of the ARISE Agenda that has shaped policy direction since Eno assumed office. “Governor Umo Eno has, within a short time, demonstrated uncommon dedication to improving the standard of living of our people,” Edidem said. “His focus on empowering communities, strengthening entrepreneurship and promoting sustainable development has placed Akwa Ibom on a new trajectory of progress and national recognition.” At the heart of the governor’s recognition is the ARISE Agenda—an integrated development framework focused on Agriculture, Rural Development, Infrastructure, Security and Education. While the agenda provides a strategic roadmap, its true strength lies in execution and impact. Under Governor Eno, economic inclusion has moved from rhetoric to reality. Policies designed to stimulate small and medium-scale enterprises, support artisans and traders, and expand access to skills training have helped create pathways for self-reliance across communities. Youth empowerment programmes have focused not only on short-term relief but on long-term employability and entrepreneurship. These interventions, Edidem noted,

have collectively reshaped livelihoods and restored confidence in governance as a force for good.What distinguishes Governor Eno’s approach is the centrality of community empowerment. Rather than concentrating development in urban centres alone, the administration has emphasised equitable growth across local governments, ensuring that rural communities benefit from infrastructure, social services and economic opportunities. From rural road construction to community-based enterprise support, the focus has been on unlocking local potential. This decentralised approach to development has strengthened social cohesion and reduced disparities, aligning closely with the criteria for the NEAPS award. For Edidem, the recognition is therefore as much about the people as it is about leadership. “The award is not only a personal accolade for the governor, but a collective honour for the people of Akwa Ibom State, whose lives have continued to be positively impacted through strategic policies in the areas of economic inclusion, youth empowerment, social welfare, infrastructure and community development,” he said. Beyond economic initiatives, Governor Eno’s administration has paid deliberate attention to social welfare. Programmes targeting vulnerable groups, women, youths, the elderly and underserved communities, have helped broaden the benefits of growth. By integrating social protection into development planning, the government has acknowledged that sustainability is not solely about physical infrastructure but also about human wellbeing. This holistic understanding of development is increasingly recognised as essential for long-term stability and prosperity. It is this blend of economic pragmatism and social compassion that has earned Governor Eno respect across political and civic spaces. The Deputy Speaker also used the occasion to reaffirm the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly’s commitment to partnering with the executive arm to deliver impactful governance. This synergy, he said, has been instrumental in translating policy vision into actionable programmes. Martins Akpan writes from Uyo, Akwa-Ibom State

Even with all its significance, nothing decisive can be said about the new year, argues JOSHUA J. OMOJUWA

THE YEAR OF POLITICS AND ECONOMIC CONSOLIDATION?

Just as 2025 was in its final hours, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr Peter Obi made the only move that seemed available to him; officially join the ADC. He spent months playing in its orbit so the official announcement seemed a formality. The Labour Party were scathing in their position on his move. That came as no surprise because the man and the party had been at loggerheads all year. It was a battle of attrition that was always going to leave each side less of the other. With Atiku Abubakar and now Obi in the same party, we could have a re-run of their 2019 ticket. 2026 will be the year of politicking, but for the sake of the Nigerian masses, it is the year that President Tinubu’s economic reforms must start to show some form of consolidation that’d take the gains from the board rooms to the streets of Nigeria. More than any other year under this administration’s present term, everything it does and announces will be seen through the filter of the next election. Whilst we are talking about 2027, there are strong indications and machinations to have the elections at the end of this year, 2026. We shall see about that. The APC has widened its base without a single mention of a coalition, primarily through defections and keeping the house largely intact. Even its worst enemies must admit it is a party in its strongest position since 2015. The once massive PDP is in its worst ever state. It may not be a challenger in 2027, except something unusual happens. That is not unlikely. Announcements about big deals in power and the oil sector, like we saw with Geregu deal on one side and the Heirs Energies and Afrexim Bank deal, not to mention a number of other related deals, will suggest whatever is at play in the privacy of board whispers are likely to come to the fore this year. Those are on the side of economic consolidation. The politics and the governance must interplay. The new roads, the prospects of increased power supply, education, and social programmes are bound to be read for electoral subtext. The stock market, I believe, will further expand this year. These are the sort of gains everyday Nigerians crave and must see this year. We must accept that all of that will often get so mixed with politics they could be inseparable at times. Can this year become a year of economic consolidation, where reforms are felt in homes and shops rather than just in corporate Nigeria? Stability begins with money and markets. We enjoyed a semblance of stability last year. It must be the norm in 2026. The foreign exchange framework should stay predictable for importers, exporters, and investors to plan for the year. Our steadier currency is essential for planning and employment. We’d do well to stay consistent on this front. The Tax reform has remained a controversy but the government has gone ahead with its implemetation. It is a crucial part of the reforms and they must find

a way to ensure all the issues around the misaligment between what was passed by the National Assembly and what was signed by the president all get resolved. The truth is, even without this, there are many who do want these tax reforms to happen. Tax reforms is never without a bloody fight, in every country. Power remains the stubborn obstacle and the most realistic breakthrough. Generation capacity exists on paper, yet transmission and distribution remain short. The year demands practical steps, targeted grid investments, industrial feeders that actually work, and fast scale for commercial mini grids that power clusters. Every additional hour of reliable electricity lowers costs, supports factories and shops, lengthens service hours, and rewards households. Logistics and ports are the arteries of commerce. If 2026 is to count as consolidation, port clearance times must fall and trucking must become safer. Rail freight should carry more bulk movement of grains, fuel, and building materials. A true single window for documentation, predictable fees, and working scanners will shave days from each shipment. Dry ports in the interior can bring customs closer to producers and ease pressure on coastal terminals, lowering costs for exporters and importers. The opposition also carries responsibility. If the ADC wishes to look like a government in waiting, it must publish a simple economic brief that voters can check. Who are the shadow ministers? What is the plan for power, inflation, for jobs? How will coordination with states be achieved in a federation where capacity varies? Will they return the fuel subsidy? Will the forex arbitrage return? This must go beyond washing dirty toilets on a British Airways flight. Nigerian voters know what they want and will not be deceived by sob and sad stories. The diaspora remains an underused force for investments, jobs and skills. Clear rules for remittance investment vehicles, credible diaspora bonds, and simple processes for professional licensure can attract capital and talent. Partnerships between Nigerian institutions and global firms should target apprenticeships, remote services, and supplier development. Omojuwa is chief strategist, Alpha Reach/BGX Publishing

22 4

T H I S D AY

EDITORIAL

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

FRIDAY JANUARY 2, 2026

RISING CASES OF FOOD POISONING Regulators should do more to ensure food is properly processed and preserved

cross the country, incidents of deaths after meals are now common. Since the causes of many of these deaths were never accurately determined, it is becoming increasingly clear that the way some foods are being processed poses serious health risks, especially to vital organs and the immune system. The most endangered are people already malnourished as they lack the proper mix of amino acids that are vital ingredients in detoxifying some of the poisons. Perhaps more disturbing is that most of these fatal incidents are never investigated by health authorities to ascertain their causes so that lessons can be learnt. When five siblings in Anambra State recently died from suspected food poisoning, we called for a thorough investigation but up till now, there has been no report. The children reportedly ate a meal prepared by their mother before they started experiencing stomach aches, vomiting, and other symptoms, which worsened over time and were rushed to the hospital where they all died. Their mother, who also ate from the same meal, was said to be in critical condition at the time. On the average, contaminated amala, rice, beans, biscuits, and others lead to more than 30,000 deaths in a year. The issue of food safety has for several years posed a daunting challenge in Nigeria hence an urgent need for strict compliance with laws on food preservation. For instance, experts have identified improper use of agro chemicals and pesticides to control pests on grains as one of the causes of the rising cases of food poisoning in Nigeria. Last year, the University of Ibadan released report of a study which revealed that over 50 per cent of pregnant women in some rural areas had detectable levels of pesticides in their blood. Jointly conducted by the

Environmental Rights Action (ERA) and the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), the report reveals the adverse effects of chemical poisoning cases especially concerning food-borne diseases with their attendant social, economic and health costs. The consumption of food grains that have been laced with pesticides by vendors to preserve their shelf life and protect them from destruction by pests puts many people at risk of gastro-intestinal disorders and some types of cancers. Given the alarming rate at which people, including sometimes a whole family, eat certain food and then die, there is an urgent need for public enlightenment on the danger associated with some of the food items we consume. Nigerians must also be made to understand that certain food can be dangerous if not properly processed. For instance, it is important that there be a campaign on cassava-based dishes which are widely consumed in Nigeria, where it is a major source of carbohydrates. They are by far the commonest meals, with popular appeal to the poor. But cassava has one major drawback: When poorly processed, the roots and leaves contain a substance named Linamarin which when eaten is converted to cyanide, a poisonous gas which could be fatal when inhaled or ingested. The processing of cassava often employed by the traditional methods and rural women is said to be good enough to effectively contain the toxic content found in cassava, whether of the sweet or bitter variety. But these days, many producers adopt short-cut processing techniques, which turn out to endanger lives. In some cases, particularly those with high cyanide levels, mere exposure to volatile substances while being processed can cause some health disorders. The poor preparation of cassava meals, according to experts, can leave enough of this poisonous substance to cause acute intoxication, goitre and in some cases death.

On the average, contaminated amala, rice, beans, biscuits, and others lead to more than 30,000 deaths in a year T H I S D AY

EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

T H I S D AY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D

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LETTERS

WHY NIGERIA NEEDS A NATIONAL HEAT MANAGEMENT PLAN During the 2025 Ramadan fasting period, schools were shut in some states across northern Nigeria. The decision sparked public outrage, with many Nigerians questioning it. The unanimous reason given by authorities was that the heat had become unbearable in the affected states and therefore necessitated the closure of schools. For many people, that was a reasonable excuse, but beneath it lay a policy failure that deserved more attention than it received. Northern Nigeria, particularly the North East and North West, sits within a semi-arid belt bordering the Sahara Desert. It has always been hotter than other parts of the country. What that school closure quietly revealed was the absence of a national or states heat management policy. Nigeria is of course not lacking policies for floods, droughts, energy transition, and disaster response, climate and health adaptation. However, heat is largely unmanaged. There is

no clear policy framework on how schools, workers, farmers, or low-income households should cope with rising temperatures. As a result, heat is not treated as a public policy emergency. This is not an attempt to relitigate a past event on the schools closure. Rather, it is an effort to call attention to how rising heat is silently pushing Nigerians deeper into poverty, food insecurity, and worsened health conditions. Heat stress is now not just an environmental concern but a development issue that largely affects productivity, education, health, and household income. Unlike floods, heat is not dramatic, but it is as deadly or even worse. It creeps into everyday life, drains energy, reduces earning hours, and increases health risks. Evidence globally has over the years established a strong link between extreme heat and poverty, particularly in low-income societies.

For many outdoor workers, earning a livelihood has become increasingly difficult. In some places, work cannot continue past noon because of extreme heat. Those who push through do so at the expense of their health, suffering dehydration, headaches, and heat exhaustion. Lost income and rising healthcare costs are the result, which also consume the little savings they manage to earn under the heat. The education sector also tells a worrying story. Recently, during a visit to the primary school I attended in Bauchi State, I saw how teachers and pupils were struggling under the suffocating heat. The teacher was drenched in sweat. The pupils were distracted, trying to hand-fan themselves with notebooks. Learning was taking place in form, but not in substance. Isah Kamisu Madachi, Abuja

T H I S D AY • FRIday, January 2, 2026

BUSINESSWORLD R A T E S

MONEY MARKET

A S

REPO

A T

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

08056356325, 07034471123

J a n u ar y

S & P INDEX

1 , 2 0 2 6

S & P INDEX

EXCHANGE RATE

OPR

25.34%

CALL

23.25%

INDEX LEVEL

595.26

1/4 to daTE

0.24%

N1,460.15/ 1 US DOLLAR*

OVERNIGHT

25.18%

1-MONTH

21.37%

1-DAY

0.10%

YEAR TO DATE

-10.99%

*AS AT THUR, JAN. 1, 2026

3-MONTH

22.41%

MONTH-TO-DATE

0.24%

Despite FG’s Promise, Airline Operators Insist Existing Tariffs Erode Profitability

Chinedu Eze While the controversy over the new tax laws rages, the aviation industry has raised issues with the new tax regime, insisting that it will erode profitability and adversely affect domestic air travel. But the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee has dismissed claims that Nigeria’s new tax laws will hurt the aviation industry, insisting that the reforms are designed to

reduce operating costs for airlines and bring longterm relief to the sector. The committee acknowledged the longstanding challenges facing the aviation industry, particularly the burden of multiple taxes, levies and regulatory charges, but noted that government has been engaging extensively with airline operators and other stakeholders, adding that the consultations are ongoing. According to the Committee, the new tax

regime addresses several structural issues that have historically driven up costs for airlines and constrained cash flow. One of the most significant changes is the removal of the 10 per cent withholding tax on aircraft leases under the existing law. The committee explained that the tax, which had been the single biggest tax burden on airlines, has now been replaced with a rate to be determined by regulation. This, it said,

creates room for either a full exemption or a substantially lower rate. But airline operators have insisted that what the federal government promised would ease the operators in the application of the new tax regime would even exacerbate their case because currently the airlines are literally flogged by numerous taxes with different names, which the new tax regime may not likely remove; except if

government had chosen to revive the airlines. This, they said, would mean total review of the existing taxes, suspension of many of them and introduction of the new tax regime with the precondition that government would want the airlines to survive and become profitable. Industry stakeholder and a trustee member of Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), Captain Roland Iyayi, told THISDAY in exclusive

interview that the existing taxes with planned introduction of new ones may end up killing the airlines; “unless there is a careful review, recognising the regulation of taxes by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) on the standardised taxes paid by member countries and other taxes which the Nigerian government and its agencies level on airlines.” The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

Insurance Commissioner Tasks Takaful Promoters on Harnessing Market Potentials Ebere Nwoji

The Commissioner for Insurance, Mr. Olusegun Ayo Omosehin, has advised promoters of Takaful Insurance to brace up with key challenges confronting development of the market by harnessing the potentials of the business line through increased participation and awareness creation. Omosehin noted this

while addressing members of the Takaful Advisory Council (TAC), who paid courtesy visit to his office in Abuja. He reaffirmed the commission’s Commitment to Takaful Insurance development. He commended TAC for its commitment and contributions to the development of Takaful insurance in the country,

describing the meeting as an interactive session aimed at identifying areas for expansion and improvement within the Takaful Insurance subsector. Omosehin noted that Nigeria’s population of over 200 million people presents a significant opportunity for the growth of Takaful insurance, stressing that the market potential cuts

across religious boundaries. He emphasised that the key challenge lies in harnessing this potential through increased participation and awareness. The commissioner further praised the council for the efforts in strengthening the Takaful Insurance business. He further explained the structural background and core mandate of NAICOM, highlighting

its responsibility to ensure industry stability, protect policyholders, and promote sustainable growth. He noted that the ongoing reforms in the insurance industry was aimed at strengthening operators and safeguarding consumers. Omosehin also underscored the commission’s developmental role, describing it as critical to

the growth of the industry. He recalled that on July 31, 2025, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed into law the Nigerian Insurance Reform Act (NIIRA) 2025, which formally recognises Takaful Insurance as part of Nigeria’s insurance business framework, describing the development as a major milestone for the industry.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

M a r k e t d ata A s at W e d n e s d ay, DE C e m b e r 3 1 , 2 0 2 5 BONDS Description Price Yield Change Updated Time (%) ^16.2884 17December 99.42 16.77 0.01 31, 2025 MAR-2027 December ^19.94 20103.46 16.60 0.00 31, 2025 MAR-2027 ^13.98 23December 94.94 16.85 0.00 FEB-2028 31, 2025 ^21.00 20December 107.42 16.80 0.00 MAR-2028 31, 2025 ^14.55 26December 105.58 16.98 0.00 31, APR-2029 2025

BILLS Maturity NTB 8-Jan26 NTB 5-Feb26 NTB 5-Mar26 NTB 9-Apr26 NTB 7-May26

Discount Yield

CPs

Change (%) Updated Time

Maturity

15.32

15.37

December -0.01 31, 2025

15.55

15.79

December -0.01 31, 2025

15.70

16.14

December -0.01 31, 2025

15.77

16.47

December -0.01 31, 2025

16.83

December -0.01 31, 2025

EULL CP IX 18-JAN-26 SKIS CP XV 23-JAN-26 VAAG CP XII 2-FEB-26 DANC CP XXI 11-MAR-26 NEVE CP II 3-APR-26

15.90

Discount Yield 19.21

19.39

19.81

20.06

20.74

21.13

18.18

18.84

19.28

20.28

CLEARED NAIRA-SETTLED NDFS Change (%)

Updated Time

December -0.01 31, 2025 December -0.01 31, 2025 December -0.01 31, 2025 December 0.02 31, 2025 December 0.06 31, 2025

Contract Current Tenor Contract Rate ($/₦) (Month) NGUS JAN 13M – 27 2027 NGUS FEB 14M – 24 2027 NGUS MAR 15M – 31 2027 NGUS APR 16M – 28 2027 NGUS MAY 17M – 26 2027

Updated Time

December 31, 2025 December 31, 2025 December 31, 2025 December 31, 2025 December 31, 2025

FRIday, January 2, 2026 • T H I S D AY

BUSINESSWORLD

NAMA Allays Harmattan Threat to Flight Safety A i r

Stories by Chinedu Eze

The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has reassured air travellers that Harmattan weather does not compromise air safety in Nigeria, insisting that the country’s navigational infrastructure remains robust, well maintained and fully aligned with global aviation standards. NAMA disclosed that all navigational aids at Federal Government airports are routinely maintained, flightchecked and calibrated in strict compliance with International

Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices, as well as the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations. “These processes are not discretionary. They are mandatory safety requirements,” NAMA said, explaining that calibration and inspection are conducted using its dedicated flight inspection aircraft operated by highly trained technical and flight inspection personnel. Critical infrastructure such as Instrument Landing Systems (ILS), VHF Omnidirectional Range

(VOR), Distance Measuring Equipment (DME) and other Communication, Navigation, Surveillance and Air Traffic Management facilities undergo periodic ground and airborne verification to ensure signal integrity, operational accuracy and safety reliability. Beyond internal processes, NAMA noted that its activities are carried out under continuous regulatory oversight by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), which audits compliance, validates calibration cycles and enforces corrective actions where required.

Air watch

Watch

Airports Certification as Key to Safe Destination

Air Peace Dismisses Report of Stranded Passengers in Barbados Air Peace Limited had condemned recent media reports alleging it abandoned its passengers in Barbados and described it as a misleading report. The airline said that all tickets were sold strictly in accordance with international airline sales practices and applicable aviation regulations, stating that at no point did the airline engage in deceptive sales or intentionally misled any passenger regarding their

travel arrangements. During standard predeparture profiling and documentation checks at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, Nigeria, it was discovered that some passengers did not possess the required transit visas to travel via Antigua to their final destinations, including Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago. In compliance with regulatory requirements, Air Peace immediately offered

the affected passengers a full refund of their tickets. The airline disclosed that while some passengers accepted the refund option, others voluntarily requested to be rerouted through Barbados to their final destination, noting that Nigerian passport holders do not require transit visas to travel through Barbados to Jamaica and beyond. Based solely on this voluntary request, Air Peace facilitated the rerouting.

IATA: $1.2bn Airline Funds Blocked in Africa, Middle East, Others

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reported that $1.2 billion in airline funds were blocked from repatriation by governments as of the end of October 2025. A marginal improvement of $100 million has been made since last reported in April 2025. Out of total blocked funds reported, 93 per cent are trapped in Africa and Middle East (AME). IATA called on governments to lift all restrictions on currency repatriation and allow airlines to access their revenues in US dollars

Group Business Editor Eromosele Abiodun Deputy Business Editor Chinedu Eze Comms/e-Business Editor Emma Okonji Asst. Editor, Energy Emmanuel Addeh Asst. Editor, Money Market Nume Ekeghe Correspondents KayodeTokede(CapitalMarkets) James Emejo (Finance) Ebere Nwoji (Insurance) Reporter Peter Uzoho (Energy)

from ticket sales, cargo sales and other activities, as guaranteed in bilateral air service agreements and treaty obligations. Restrictions include burdensome or inconsistent procedures to obtain repatriation approval, delays in obtaining approval, shortage or lack of foreign exchange or other limitations imposed by governments or central banks. “Airlines need reliable access to their revenues in US dollars to keep operations

running, pay their bills, and maintain vital air connectivity. Governments have committed to unfettered repatriation of funds in bilateral agreements. With low margins and significant dollar denominated costs, airlines depend on governments fulfilling that commitment. It is also in the interest of governments to foster the economic catalyst that airlines provide by connecting their economies globally.

Ethiopian Airlines Achieves A350-900 MRO Paint Milestone Ethiopian Airlines has recorded a major maintenance, repair and overhaul milestone with the successful completion of Africa’s first full stripand-paint programme on the Airbus A350-900. The achievement, carried out on two aircraft, marks a decisive expansion of Ethiopian Airlines’ in-house MRO capability and reinforces its long-term strategy of technical self-reliance. Therefore, the development positions Ethiopian Airlines as a continental leader in advanced composite aircraft painting. The A350 strip-and-paint programme follows the recent

introduction of full composite painting capability on the Boeing 787 fleet. However, the A350 project represents a more complex technical leap due to the aircraft’s extensive use of advanced composite materials. By executing the programme internally, Ethiopian Airlines has demonstrated the depth of its engineering competence while reducing dependence on offshore maintenance providers. Appreciating the accomplishment, Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr Mesfin Tasew, said the project marked a significant step forward in the airline’s wide-body composite structure paint capability.

Chinedu Eze Recently the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) issued aerodrome certificates for the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) and Obafemi Jeremiah Awolowo International Airport, Port Harcourt (JOAIA). This means that four major international airports in Nigeria operated by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), have been certified as the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja were recertified in November 2024. Aerodrome certification means that these airports have met the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards. ICAO standard stipulates that airports must prove robust Safety Management System (SMS), competent staff, adequate facilities (rescue, firefighting, lighting), clear obstacle clearance, and operational readiness with approved manuals and procedure. It includes ensuring ongoing compliance with Annex 14 standards for safe, uniform operations worldwide. Annexe 14 standards sets global Standard and Recommended Practices (SARPs) for airport design and operations. Industry insiders said that FAAN management headed by Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, expressed determination to see these two major airports certified after gaps were identified in the last audit conducted by ICAO and has deployed human and material resources to make it happen and the efforts include facility upgrade, manpower training and lighting and marking of airport ramps and taxiways, as some pilots confirmed that the airport markings have been totally revamped. During media briefing about the certification, the Director General, NCAA, Captain Chris Najomo, said the process was not merely procedural, but, it was, indeed, a demonstration of the NCAA’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that every aerodrome in Nigeria meets the requirements prescribed in the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations

2023 Part 12, Vol. I which represents the domesticated version of ICAO Annex 14, Volume I. According to Najomo, “The FAAN Managing Director will recall the extensive journey of cooperation and collaboration that have brought us to this momentous occasion. Over the past months, NCAA conducted multiple inspections, issued Corrective Action Notices (CANs), and received from FAAN a series of Corrective Action Plans (CAPs) addressing identified gap at both airports. Najomo also said, “I am pleased to state that through diligent collaboration and sustained effort, both MAKIA and JOAIA have now been adjudged compliant, and have no matters of significant safety concern outstanding. “With today’s certification, the total number of Nigeria’s international airports that have been issued aerodrome certificates rises to four out of the five designated international airports in Nigeria; the earlier certified airports being Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.” THISDAY spoke to the former Director General of NCAA and also former Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Captain Fola Akinkuotu, who said that the certification is commendable because it confirms that the four airports so certified have met ICAO standards, noting that Nigeria has many airports but only some of them are designated international airports. Akinkuotu said these airports will over time be recognised by the international aviation community and this has some benefits for Nigeria, the airport management and both domestic and international airlines, adding that with ICAO certification of these airports, international airlines that operate to them would be identified as operating to ICAO certified airports and Nigerian airlines may have downward review of their aircraft insurance premium. The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

T H I S D AY • FRIday, January 2, 2026

BUSINESSWORLD

INTERVIEW

Tadesse: Aviation Training Will Boost Manpower Devt President of Ethiopian Aviation University, Laeke Tadesse, in this interview, speaks about one of Africa’s most accredited aviation institutions, and the need to train more technical personnel to match global demand for manpower development. Chinedu Eze brings the excerpts: What is the history of the university and the retraining of personnel for Ethiopian Airlines? he Ethiopian Aviation University goes back all the way to 1956. It is almost 59 years going to 60. It started by training the required workforce for the airline, primarily training pilots, aircraft maintenance technicians, cabin crew and sales and marketing staff. Gradually it continued to do so and later on, it started to train interested parties, third-party trainings, but it was established ab initio as an in-house training academy.

year and the other in- flight scheduling that is arranged on demand.

How many international organisations and countries have accredited the university so far? The big institutions like FAA, EASA, ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organisation), IATA International Air Transport Association). We have accreditation in the different programmes and the different civil aviation authorities in Africa whenever they want to send their trainees, they first come, evaluate and give accreditation. So, I could say almost all over Africa, we have the regional or the nationwide CAA accreditation. In West Africa, the ANAC (National Civil Aviation Agency of Brazil) and other entities have approved the University. East Africa, the respective countries, CAAs (Civil Aviation Authorities), have also accredited the University. So, I would say pretty much we are covered in that space. What’s the duration for the training of aircraft engineers and the entry level qualification? Meeting the entry requirement, if it is the full maintenance technician training, it is 18 months. But we also provide modular training courses if one wants to be an avionics specific technician, there is a modular training offer for that or plant only or airframe only. But in general, the complete

Currently how many students are in your school and which countries are they from? Well, the size of students may differ throughout the year. Let’s say if you take the cabin crew, since they graduate frequently, the number may change. But at the moment, close to 1,800 students are involved in different programmes. They come from different African countries like Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon, Zambia, Namibia, Tanzania and so on. It depends on the timing but the current figure is in this range. In Cabin Crew Training, do you type rate the students if they so choose? Yes, we do provide both the initial training as well as a specific aircraft type training. We can do the rating on the Boeing B737, B767, B787 and the Airbus C-50 and the Q400 models of aircraft.

Ta d e s se

package will reach up to 18 months. Do you train students on flight scheduling and operations control? Yes, we do have ad hoc trainings for any of the business functions. If you take the flight scheduling, the scheduling team; whenever they have new recruits, we provide that training in-house. And whenever there is also a demand from the market, we set up these trainings. We do not currently have established, say,

regularized training in terms of that, but on demand, we provide the training and we have done so to so many African carriers for their internal scheduling team. When it comes to the operational control, similar approaches follow. We have a regular program with a basic taking close to four months and we also provide recurrent ones to refresh existing dispatchers. So, in terms of operations control, we do have a regular class for anyone interested two or three times a

If you have jobs available, do you link your students to such jobs? Definitely. One of the things we do is linking our graduates with the market. Some of them, of course, will end up working for us. Some will work for our equity partner airlines and some will also work for those airlines that have sent them here for the training. But if someone is trained privately, we also point him to the market, since they are already accredited and licensed when they graduate. And as you know, aviation is growing and the need for trained workforce is there. They quickly get placed in the areas they are trained. The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

Aliko Dangote Phenomenon: Deeper Perspective on Industrial Devt Potential Dan Kunle

Industrialisation within the colony was neither encouraged nor required. Nigeria was positioned as a supplier of raw materials and a consumer of manufactured goods produced elsewhere. The colonial economy functioned as an appendage of imperial industry, not as an autonomous system capable of internal value creation. Education reflected this design. Where it existed, it was geared toward producing clerks, interpreters, and administrators rather than engineers, scientists, or industrialists. By independence, Nigeria inherited an economy structurally dependent on trade and extraction, with weak industrial capacity and fragile institutions. This outcome was not an accident of governance, but the result of deliberate economic design.

Nigeria’s Story Did Not Begin in 1960 igeria’s prolonged struggle with industrial development, economic diversification, and broad-based prosperity cannot be explained solely by post-independence policy failures or leadership shortcomings. To frame the country’s economic crisis purely as a modern governance problem is to overlook the deeper historical forces that shaped the Nigerian economy long before the modern state emerged. Long before independence in 1960, the territory that became Nigeria was configured around economic systems that privileged trade, extraction, and circulation over production, innovation, and institutional development. This history matters because economies are path-dependent. They evolve within inherited structures, incentives, and constraints. States do not simply choose development trajectories; they inherit conditions that shape what choices are feasible. Nigeria’s contemporary contradictions, vast natural resources alongside persistent poverty, a large population without commensurate industrial output, and deep dependence on imports, are not accidental. They reflect structural decisions embedded in the foundations of the economy well before the rise of a Nigerian political elite. Understanding this background is essential to appreciating why the rise of Aliko Dangote is not merely a story of personal success, but a revealing lens through which Nigeria’s unrealised industrial potential can be examined. Making of a Trading Economy External contact began shaping the region’s economic orientation long before formal colonial rule. From the late fifteenth century, Portuguese explorers reached the West African coast, opening maritime routes that linked coastal settlements to European commercial networks. These encounters were part of a wider global transformation driven by advances in navigation, shipbuilding, and metallurgy. The objective of these engagements was not

the development of local productive capacity, but the extraction of value in the form of commodities, labour, and strategic advantage. Coastal settlements such as Lagos, Badagry, and communities in the Niger Delta evolved into trading outposts, while inland routes connected West Africa to North Africa and the Mediterranean through long-established trans-Saharan networks centred on hubs such as Kano. This pattern reinforced an economy organised around exchange rather than production. Goods passed through Nigerian territory, but institutions capable of sustaining manufacturing, technological accumulation, or

industrial innovation did not emerge. Trade thrived, while production stagnated. This orientation laid the groundwork for what would later be formalised under colonial rule. Colonial Consolidation and Economic Design British colonial administration did not alter this trajectory. It systematised it. Colonial infrastructure, including railways, ports, and roads, was designed primarily to extract raw materials from the interior and transport them to the coast for export. Agricultural produce and minerals flowed outward, while finished goods flowed inward.

Independence Without Economic Transformation Political independence in 1960 offered Nigeria a moment of possibility. Sovereignty was transferred, but the underlying economic logic remained largely unchanged. Political authority shifted, yet the structure of production, capital formation, and economic incentives persisted. The discovery of oil in commercial quantities shortly before independence deepened this imbalance. Rather than catalyse industrialisation, petroleum revenues entrenched rent-seeking behaviour and reinforced import dependence. The state became the principal distributor of wealth, while private enterprise gravitated toward trading, contracting, and arbitrage. Over time, the failure to build strong regulatory, judicial, educational, and industrial institutions became one of the most binding constraints on development. Weak institutions cannot sustain long-term economic transformation, regardless of resource endowment. Without policy credibility, capital remains short-term, infrastructure underdeveloped, and industrial risk prohibitively high.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

SOStainabilityWeekly

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026 • THISDAY

Edited by Oke Epia | e-mail: sostainability01@gmail.com | Whatsapp: +234 8034000706

Washing and hushing

Mining: A Sector Littered With Sustainability Landmines N

igeria’s renewed push to diversify its economy has placed mining and solid minerals back at the centre of national policy conversations. From gold and lithium to aggregates and industrial minerals, the sector is increasingly framed as a pathway to revenue growth, job creation, and reduced dependence on oil. Yet mining is also one of the most environmentally disruptive economic activities, with long-term consequences for land use, water systems, biodiversity, host communities, and carbon emissions. In a world where climate risk and sustainability governance now shape investment flows and regulatory credibility, how mining companies communicate their responsibilities matters as much as what they do operationally. In this week’s SOStainability Weekly edition, we apply the Sustainability Visibility Scan to mining and solid mineral companies operating in Nigeria to examine whether the sector is publicly prepared for a climate-constrained future. Sustainability gaps in a high-impact sector Globally, mining companies are under growing pressure to demonstrate how they manage environmental damage, community relations, emissions, and post-extraction rehabilitation. This pressure is not driven by activism alone but by financial institutions, insurers, downstream buyers, and governments seeking to de-risk supply chains. In Nigeria, however, the mining sector remains largely absent from sustainability conversations, despite its clear relevance to climate adaptation, environmental protection, and social stability. The gap is not about technical capacity alone. It is about governance maturity and the willingness to publicly articulate responsibility. When a sector that reshapes landscapes and livelihoods says little about sustainability, it raises questions about readiness, oversight, and long-term national risk. How the Sustainability Visibility Scan was applied The Sustainability Visibility Scan is designed to assess what companies make publicly visible about their climate and sustainability responsibilities. It does not judge intent, internal activities, or regulatory filings that are not publicly accessible. Instead, it focuses on four core dimensions that form the baseline of accountability under Nigeria’s Climate Change Act: climate policy visibility, climate reporting visibility, target visibility, and governance visibility. Each company is assessed strictly based on information published on its official website. Social media claims, interviews, and third-party references are excluded because visibility is a prerequisite for verification, investor confidence, and regulatory alignment. For this assessment, ten mining and solid mineral companies operating in Nigeria were reviewed. These include Eta-Zuma Group, Japaul Gold & Ventures Plc, Segilola Resources Operating Limited, Multiverse Mining & Exploration Plc, Goldwater Mining Limited, AG Vision Mining Ltd, Prowell Mining Nigeria Limited, Continental Lithium, Goldlin Dimensions Limited, and Neveah Limited. Together, these firms represent a cross-section of Nigeria’s mining landscape, spanning

•Dele Alake, Minister of Mines and Steel Development

local operators and international-linked entities, precious metals, and transition minerals. What the patterns reveal across companies The most striking outcome of the scan is not variation but uniformity. Most companies assessed fall into a clear zero-visibility category. Eta-Zuma Group, Goldwater Mining Limited, AG Vision Mining Ltd, Prowell Mining Nigeria Limited, Goldlin Dimensions Limited, and Neveah Limited show no publicly visible climate policies, sustainability reports, measurable targets, or governance structures. Their websites are functional from a commercial or corporate perspective but silent on environmental or climate responsibility. A second group shows limited awareness without structural depth. Japaul Gold & Ventures Plc, Segilola Resources Operating Limited,

•Obadiah Nkom, Director-General, Mining and Cadastre Office

and Continental Lithium reference environmental stewardship or sustainability in broad language. These statements signal awareness but stop short of formal policy, reporting, targets, or governance. Without structure, such language remains aspirational rather than accountable. Only one company, Multiverse Mining & Exploration Plc, demonstrates partial structural visibility through published policy documents, including health, safety, and environment and mine waste management policies. However, even here, climate reporting, measurable targets, and governance disclosure are absent. No company assessed reaches a level where sustainability appears institutionalised rather than incidental. Visibility failure is a governance problem The absence of sustainability visibility in Nigeria’s mining sector is often dismissed

as a communication gap. That framing is misleading. Visibility is not about public relations; it is about governance signals. When companies publish climate policies, reports, targets, and leadership structures, they signal that risks are identified, responsibilities assigned, and performance monitored. When they do not, it suggests that climate and environmental risk remain peripheral to strategic decision-making. This has concrete implications. Regulators struggle to align sector activity with national climate plans without company-level disclosure. Financial institutions increasingly interpret the absence of ESG visibility as a proxy for unmanaged risk. Communities affected by mining operations lack information needed to hold operators accountable. At a national level, Nigeria’s ambition to position solid minerals as a sustainable growth pillar is weakened when operators cannot demonstrate alignment with evolving global norms. The cost of inaction for Nigeria’s mining future Nigeria stands at a critical juncture. Global demand for transition minerals is rising, and countries that can credibly demonstrate responsible extraction will shape future supply chains. Sustainability visibility is fast becoming a market access requirement, not a voluntary add-on. Mining jurisdictions that fail to enforce transparency risk attracting only short-term, high-risk capital while being excluded from long-term investment partnerships. The findings from this scan suggest that Nigeria’s mining sector is not yet prepared for this reality. The issue is not a lack of opportunity but a lack of institutional signalling. Until mining companies begin to publicly articulate how they manage climate risk, environmental impact, and governance responsibility, sustainability will remain peripheral to sector growth. For a country seeking to diversify its economy responsibly, that is a risk Nigeria can no longer afford to ignore.

THISDAY • FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026

SOStainabilityWeekly Edited by Oke Epia | e-mail: sostainability01@gmail.com | Whatsapp: +234 8034000706

Trends and Threads

Extractive Industries: Accountability Blind Spots as Nigeria Nears Another Global Validation

or decades, Nigeria’s extractive sector has been both a lifeline and a puzzle: rich in resources but often thin on trust, accountability, and improvements in the lives and living conditions of citizens. These corruption-related pain points have refused to go away. The media recently reported that the presidency authorized the cancellation of $1.42 billion and ₦5.57 trillion in legacy debts owed to the federation by the state-owned Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL). This debt forgiveness raises critical governance questions that directly relate to the themes of transparency, accountability, and revenue integrity that have consistently dogged the extractive sector, especially oil and gas. Annual audits by the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) and the reports of the Office of the Auditor General of the Federation (OAuGF) have almost always flagged the NNPCL for one violation or another. It is concerning that a commercialized company would still get such a unilateral and hefty bailout when it has not demonstrated transparency and accountability in the receipt, management, and remittance of petroleum revenues. Should such a decision with significant fiscal

•Musa Adar, NEITI Executive Secretary

• Bayo Ojulari, CEO of NNPCL

impact for all three tiers of government not be subject to robust stakeholder consultation and legislative oversight? This development highlights several accountability blind spots as Nigeria gears up for another round of validation by the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), the global transparency watchdog to which Nigeria subscribes. The EITI standards are the mirrors for self-assessment and global validation of resource governance for countries and companies. For Nigeria, a key issue has

always been the timely, accessible, and transparent publication of data to enable citizens to hold leaders accountable.

Amaeshi goes to UNILAG

or an accomplished academic, thought leader, and catalyst of African-focused entrepreneurial excellence, the news of an appointment to a professorial chair by a leading institution is worth celebrating. The University of Lagos (UNILAG) recently announced Professor Kenneth Amaeshi as the inaugural occupant of the Samuel Asabia/ First Bank Professorial Chair of Business Ethics. According to a statement by the university, the role marks a new beginning in ethical leadership and academic excellence. The statement rightfully describes Amaeshi in superlative terms, outlining his accomplishments at several Ivory Towers across the world, including the European University Institute in Florence, Italy, and the University of Edinburgh in the United Kingdom. His work has helped shape global thinking on responsible business and good governance. He has also made a significant mark in entrepreneurship development, and in this regard, the evolutionary OKOBI (One Kindred One Business Initiative) is fast gaining national and global attention. This effort highlights Amaeshi’s impact beyond the walls of academic institutions: he has worked closely

• Prof. Kenneth Amaeshi with governments, businesses, and international institutions to offer practical guidance on sustainable finance, governance, and policy reform. According to the UNILAG statement, the Samuel Asabia Chair was created by First Bank in honor of Samuel Asabia, its first indigenous Managing Director, as a platform for advancing thoughtful research, teaching, and leadership in business ethics in Nigeria and beyond. The team at SOStainability heartily congratulates Prof. Amaeshi on this new feather to his cap of many colours.

The Weight of the Last Validation

In 2023, Nigeria underwent a comprehensive EITI validation on how effectively the country implemented the EITI Standards between March 2019 and December 2022. This process examined three pillars: Outcomes and Impact, Stakeholder Engagement, and Transparency. These pillars are not abstract concepts; they measure whether Nigeria is genuinely providing user-friendly data, inviting diverse voices into policy conversations, and using accountability to drive reforms. Nigeria scored 72 out of 100, a result categorized as meaningful progress but with clear areas needing improvement. This score was not just a number; it was a mirror reflecting how far Nigeria has come and how far it still must go. In three core areas of assessment: Outcomes and Impact, Transparency, and Stakeholder Engagement, the country’s performance varied, scoring 92, 71, and 52 points, respectively. The key issues flagged were delays in reconstituting the National Stakeholders Working Group (NEITI Board), poor industry participation at meetings, and constrained civil society participation. To address these problems, the EITI recommended specific corrective actions, including strengthening civil society participation, and making license and contract information more systematic and accessible. Since the 2023 Validation, NEITI has made efforts to address identified gaps and reposition Nigeria for a better outcome in subsequent validations, the next being in about six months. The ball is now squarely in the court of the recently appointed NEITI Executive Secretary, Musa Sarkin Adar, to ensure Nigeria improves in rating. This is why NEITI secured donor support to convene a dialogue for stakeholders, bringing together government officials, civil society, industry representatives, subnational actors, media, and development partners in Abuja recently. The dialogue examined where Nigeria stands, what it must fix, and how

to rise to the expectations of the next validation exercise. What emerged from this intensive engagement was not only a clearer sense of direction but also a shared recognition that NEITI’s success requires all sectors pulling in the same direction. The country must demonstrate not just compliance with rules, but real change in resource governance. Specifically, Nigeria must deepen stakeholder engagement by ensuring that government, industry, and civil society are not just present but actively shaping the transparency process. The meeting also harped on expanding systematic disclosures by making data on licenses, contracts, revenues, subnational flows, and state participation available in real time and accessible to citizens. Participants also emphasized the need to show tangible policy impact by linking EITI reporting with concrete reforms in fiscal management, anti-leakage strategies, and public financial accountability. Energy Transition and Why EITI Validation Matters to Nigeria

For ordinary Nigerians, the EITI validation might seem distant. But its implications are profoundly direct. Validation is a global quality assurance test that checks whether a country is living up to the commitments it made under the EITI standards. It asks not just whether data is published, but whether the information provided is meaningful, timely, accessible, and used to shape decisions that improve resource governance and service delivery to citizens. A dimension of transparency that is rapidly gaining importance in the EITI framework is the energy transition. As countries around the world plan shifts from carbon-intensive fuels toward cleaner energy futures, Nigeria cannot be left on the sidelines. This challenge has particular resonance for a country whose economy depends heavily on oil and gas. The EITI 2023 standard encourages countries to incorporate transition-related disclosures such as environmental impacts, climate-related fiscal risk, and energy policy data into transparency reporting. For Nigeria, this is more than symbolism. It means that data on gas utilization, emissions, and compliance with environmental standards must be openly published; licenses and contracts linked to fossil fuel extraction and energy projects must be transparent; and fiscal planning must consider future energy scenarios and how revenue streams will evolve. Nigeria cannot succeed in the validation if transparency ends at revenue numbers alone; it must embrace transparency that reflects the realities of a global shift toward cleaner energy, and must extend to how climate, environmental, and transition risks are managed in the extractive sectors. True readiness requires Nigeria to use the EITI process not just to report data, but to translate transparency into reform. That means ensuring that published figures actually influence policy choices, expose areas of leakage, and empower citizens to hold leaders accountable.

This

Weekend

T H I S D AY • FRIday, JANUARY 2, 2025

Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com

07010510430

Weekly Magazine UTH

& R E ASO

2026: A Year of Renewal, Impact and Rising Expectations

T H I S D AY • FRIday, JANUARY 2, 2025

Cover

2026: A Year of Renewal, Impact and Rising Expectations

As 2026 unfolds, expectations across Nigeria and beyond are shaped by a shared sense of renewal, purpose and forward momentum. From governance and economic reform to healthcare, media, infrastructure and personal growth, there is a collective belief that the newyearwillrewardpreparation,collaborationandresilience.Leaders,professionalsandinstitutionsareentering2026withoptimism grounded in action: strengthening systems, deepening partnerships, embracing innovation and turning long held intentions into measurable impact. After a period of turbulence, the year ahead is widely seen as a moment for visibility, growth and fresh beginnings, when hard work begins to yield results and hope is translated into progress. Chiemelie Ezeobi reports

Rear Admiral Olugbode

Rear Admiral Ayo Olugbode: Hydrographer of the Federation/ CEO National Hydrographic Agency s we step into 2026, the National Hydrographic Agency remains committed to advancing Nigeria’s maritime interests through cutting-edge hydrographic surveys in line with global S-100 Electronic Navigational Chart (ENC) standards, robust geospatial data management, and enhanced maritime safety initiatives. We look forward to collaborating with national, regional & international stakeholders to drive quantum growth in the Renewed Hope Agenda for blue economy aspirations and support national development. Here’s to a productive and impactful 2026!

Dr. Dolapo Fasawe

James Ladi Williams

Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe: Mandate Secretary, Health Services and Environment Secretariat, FCT We are building a healthier and greener capital and delivering renewed hope for Abuja, which was was conceived as a model capital—orderly, inclusive, and forward-looking. Our responsibility at the Health Services and Environment Secretariat (HSES) is to ensure that its health system and environment reflect that vision: resilient, equitable, and responsive to the needs of all residents, especially the most vulnerable. Over the past two years, guided by the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the clear policy direction of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)Administration under the leadership of Barrister Chief Nyesom Wike, we have focused on turning intent into impact. From saving lives through emergency and critical care investment, to advancing women’s health and protecting the vulnerable expanding access, affordability, and community outreach; strengthening the health workforce and primary health care foundation; and linking health, environment, and system sustainability, these achievements and forwardlooking investments reflect a simple but firm commitment: to make Abuja a place where quality healthcare is accessible, health workers are valued, and the environment supports, rather than undermines wellbeing. The work continues, but the direction is unmistakable, and the results are

Amina Omoike

Odita Sunday

increasingly visible. Amina Omoike: Group Head, Media Services, Mediacraft Associates My expectation for 2026 is one of purposeful impact - where I will grow continuously, contribute to meaningful conversations, and show excellence in all I do. Professionally, my major expectation is career growth. As a practitioner in the media / PR industry, I am faced with rapid change and new innovations. So, this year, I look forward to improving on my craft and helping my clients tell more accurate, insightful, and people-centred stories that not only inform and educate; but also inspire others. I also hope for stronger collaborations with my media partners. For me, building trust within the media circle remains critical. On a personal note, I expect to be more intentional about my life and matters that relate to me. We know the demands of media work can be intense, so I am hopeful for a year where I will prioritise my health and enhance work-life balance. Family is very important to me! Nosa Iyamu: IVI PR, CEO As we enter 2026, Nigerians must prioritize economic mathematics over emotional sentiments. The full implementation of the Nigeria Tax Act is the cornerstone of this shift, harmonizing fragmented codes and exempting those earning under

₦800,000. To succeed, a national orientation campaign is vital; fiscal literacy will be the bridge between confusion and compliance. With inflation cooling to 14.45%, a fragile window has opened to stimulate the real economy. The “Renewed Hope” agenda must now manifest as food on the table. By addressing insecurity in the Middle Belt and North-East, the government can stabilize prices and ensure the projected 4.49% GDP growth is felt by every citizen. Economic diversification in energy and health, alongside banking recapitalization, promises much-needed liquidity. However, infrastructure remains the backbone of recovery. To empower SMEs, “access to scale” through the 4,000 km high-speed rail and expanded digital fiber optics is non-negotiable. These are not vanity projects; they are essential links between markets like Aba and Kano. As the 2026 elections approach, a safe environment and a digital-first process under the Electoral Act 2025 are critical for investment stability. Ultimately, success rests with State Governors. We need “competitive federalism,” where performance data is public and measurable. By aligning state spending with federal goals, Nigeria can transform 2026 from a year of mere “function” into an undeniable breakthrough. Let us stay optimistic. James Ladi Williams: Founder and President of Akada This is the year of upshot growth,

Nosa

the year when seeds that were buried and seemed to have died and forgotten will finally bear fruit. It is the season when unseen labour, hard work and painful struggles that once felt wasted will reveal their purpose. In 2026, small beginnings will grow into big forests, and quiet efforts will lead us into rooms we once only imagined. There will be impact across the world, because while 2025 was a year of turmoil, so 2026 is a year of fresh morning and new beginnings. I feel deeply hopeful about this year. I am encouraging myself and others to believe again. This year, people need to come out of hiding, and to step forward with confidence. What God is building will see the light of day. Odita Sunday Udemaguna: CEO Razor Media Group My expectation this year is to consolidate my position as a respected media powerbroker, agenda setter, and institution builder within Nigeria’s media and public affairs ecosystem. I expect Razor Media Group to operate as a profitable, well-structured media enterprise with diversified revenue streams, advertising, content partnerships, strategic communications, events, and digital products. I also intend to Strengthen Razor Media Group into a trusted, nationally recognised media brand known for credibility, development reporting and responsible journalism, just as I intend to become a leading voice in public discourse, policy communication, and governance advocacy. This year, I will expand my media influence beyond reporting into strategic communication, media consulting, political communication, and reputation management. I will also be publishing and documenting more national narratives, spotlighting silent heroes, reformers, and institutions shaping Nigeria’s progress. Finally, I will build strong institutional relationships with government agencies, private sector leaders, civil society, and international partners and also mentor young journalists and media entrepreneurs, thereby contributing to the next generation of ethical and professional media practitioners.

FRIday january 2, 2026 • T H i s d ay

NEWSxtra

E-ELEVEN AWARDS & DINNER CEREMONY…

L-R: Special Guest of Honour, Mrs. Bukola Olajide; former Ekiti State First Lady/Grand Matron, e-eleven, Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi; Managing Director, Agbeyewa Farms Limited/ Secretary, e-eleven, OSKA Seyi Ayeleso; and Chairman, Cavista Holdings, John Olajide, during the award and dinner of the club at Ikogosi Warm & Cold Resorts...recently

Ipele Attack: Aiyedatiwa Meets Heads of Security Agencies, Orders Intensified Patrols

Fidelis David in Akure

Following the New Year’s eve attack on the Ipele police station in Owo Local Government Area, Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has directed intensified patrols across communities and forest areas, stressing that security remains a 24-hour responsibility, particularly

during festive periods. The governor spoke yesterday after an emergency meeting with the heads of security agencies in Akure, where he reviewed the response to the attack and measures to prevent its recurrence. He explained that the attack occurred late on Wednesday night while many residents

Separatist Group Members Arrested in Ogun they disrupted the free flow Becky Uba Umenyili The Ogun State Police Command recently arrested four females and four male leaders of a separatist movement for breach of public peace, unlawful assembly, obstruction of traffic and assault on police officers in Ogun State. The group, operating under the aegis of “Democratic Republic of the Yoruba,” unlawfully barricaded roads recently and set bonfires at the Temidire junction and Under-bridge part of Sango-Otta in the state, where

of traffic. However, when the Police officers arrived the scene of protest, the agitators attacked them. Despite the attack the polic swiftly dispersed the crowd, arrested the suspects and seized their vehicle, broadcast equipment, flags and other secessionist materials in their possession. Reacting to the incident, the Ogun State Commissioner for Police (CP) Lanre Ogunlowo, warned against any act capable of breaching public peace or any form of assault on police officers.

were attending night services to usher in 2026. The governor said that upon receiving the report, he immediately contacted the police and the Brigade

Commander of the army, instructing that security personnel be deployed to support officers on patrol and protect residents. Governor Aiyedatiwa

noted that security operatives, including members of the Joint Operations Task Force and Amotekun Rangers, were already on patrol throughout the state and in forested areas.

Their rapid mobilisation, he said, ensured that the attackers, who gained access to the police station and discharged an explosive, were unable to harm anyone.

Suspected Bandits Abduct Royal Father, Son in Kwara Community

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

No fewer than eight suspected bandits have reportedly abducted a traditional ruler of Aafin community in the Ile Ere district of Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara state, His Royal Highness, Oba Simeon Olaonipekun and his son who is presently a member of National Youth

Service Corps(NYSC) at the palace. The incident, according to THISDAY checks occurred around 8:00p.m on December 31, 2025 when the suspected bandits invaded the royal father’s palace in the town. During the attack, according to source close to the town, the suspected bandits were said to have caused panic in the

palace following the sporadic shooting that heralded their invasion. Sources said that during the incident, the assailants appeared to have come specifically for the monarch and his wife. He said: “I noticed some strange movements outside around 8:00p.m and immediately alerted those

inside. “We began locking doors and switching off lights, but once they realised this, they started shooting,” the source said. The source told newsmen in Ilorin yesterday that “the gunmen broke down the palace doors with their weapons and demanded to see the Kabiyesi.

Ewor: Fubara Deceived Us and Defected to APC from the FCT Minister, in Port Harcourt yesterday. (Fubara) reelection.

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

A factional Caretaker Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State, Dr. Robinson Ewor, has alleged that the State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, deceived them into believing that he was capable of wrestling political control

Nyesom Wike. The PDP chieftain lamented that after making them believe his alleged mission, the governor dumped the party at the middle of a political sea for the All Progressives Congress (APC) The PDP chairman spoke while addressing journalists

He said rather than follow the path of peace after the end of the emergency rule, so as to ensure smooth running of government, the governor was allegedly boasting that Tinubu will not only force the State House of Assembly members to pass budget, but will also force Wike to work for his

He demanded that the Rivers people must know the full content of the agreement reached before Mr President lifted the emergency rule. “The mandate he (Fubara) is holding was given to him by Rivers people, and all his actions and inactions affects all those whose mandate he is holding.

Backs Nigeria’s Gas Transition with $285m Deal Gbajabiamila Pays N53m RMB co-ordinator, Mandated platforms. RMB also delivered Chidi Iwuchukwu stated: Nume Ekeghe Lead Arranger (MLA), a bespoke funding solution that “This milestone transaction Medical Bills of Patients in Lagos also splashed monetary gifts Rand Merchant Bank (RMB), Underwriter and Bookrunner, enabled BlueCore Infraco to showcases RMB’s ability to Segun James The Chief of Staff (CoS) to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila yesterday paid the medical bills of N53 million for all the patients on admission at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, and three other general hospitals in Surulere of Lagos. Besides, Gbajabiamila, who is a former Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives who represented Surulere Federal Constituency for many years,

CHANGE OF NAME

I Formerly known as Okani Rachael, now wish to be called and addressed as Mrs. Eneziakpo Rachael. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

on the first baby of the year who was born at 12.01 am at the Gbaja Maternal and Child Centre, Randle Road, and other babies who were born in the new year. At LUTH, he paid N33.6 million to offset the bills of those on admission, while also paying N8.6 million for the patients at the Femi Gbajabiamila General Hospital, Iyun, Surulere. The CoS said the gesture was done not only in the spirit of the Yuletide, but also in realisation of the fact that many at the hospitals are not in position to meet their medical bills at this critical point. Gbajabiamila urged privileged people in the society to always lend a hand of support to those in need around them.

a subsidiary of the FirstRand Group, has successfully closed a landmark $285 million acquisition financing for BlueCore InfraCo Limited, marking a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s energy infrastructure evolution. Acting as Global Debt

RMB structured and partfunded a total $285 million debt financing solution to support BlueCore InfraCo’s acquisition of Glover Gas & Power B.V., the 100 per cent owner of Axxela Limited one of Nigeria’s leading private gas and power distribution

finalise the transaction within short timelines and served as exclusive sell-side adviser to Helios Investment Partners, the outgoing shareholder, ensuring a seamless transition to local Nigerian ownership. Head of Investment Banking, Africa, RMB,

deliver integrated, high-impact solutions that unlock value for our clients while advancing Nigeria’s energy transition. By enabling indigenous ownership of strategic gas and power assets, we’re helping to drive the shift toward cleaner, more sustainable energy.”

APC Launches E-Registration Drive in Sokoto Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Sokoto State has announced plans to commence electronic membership registration, aiming to strengthen the party’s database and enhance its organisational structure.

According to the party’s chairman, Alhaji Sadiq Achida, the e-registration exercise is a crucial step towards repositioning the party for future electoral successes. He made this known at a meeting with state executive committees and local government chairmen at the party secretariat in Sokoto.

Achida urged all party members to participate in the exercise, stating: “For us to know that you are a member of this party, you have to participate in this important exercise.” He emphasised that the e-registration process would help the party to update its records, identify genuine

members, and plan effectively for future elections. The party chairman explained that the exercise would be conducted simultaneously across the 23 local government areas of the state, with the party engaging the services of computer-literate individuals to facilitate the process.

THISDAY • FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026

FRIDAYSPORTS

Group Sports Editor: Duro Ikhazuagbe Email: duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com

0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY

Ola Aina to Return to Topflight Football this Saturday at Aston Villa Knee Injury may retire Victor Boniface from football

Duro Ikhazuagbe Injured Nigerian international defender, Ola Aina, may return from his almost five-month absence from topflight Football this weekend. The hamstring injury prevented Nottingham Forest to register Ola Aina for both the English Premier League as well as the Europa League. But news out of England confirmed yesterday that Ola Aina

may return to action this weekend as Nottingham Forest play away to Aston Villa on Saturday. Despite returning to training some weeks ago, Nottingham Forest refused to rush Ola Aina back to action, preferring instead to keep training with their youth team. Aina has featured twice for the club’s B team, playing a combined 153 minutes against Wolves U21s and Millwall U21s as he geared up preparations for an eventual first-team return.

Why Maresca Quits Chelsea Job Less than six months after guiding Chelsea to FIFA Club World Cup success, Enzo Maresca yesterday left his post as head coach at Stamford Bridge. The Blues won just one of their final seven Premier League matches under Maresca and sit fifth in the table - 15 points adrift of leaders Arsenal. After their most recent game - a 2-2 draw with Bournemouth on 30 December - assistant manager Willy Caballero said Maresca felt too unwell to speak to the media, but it is understood his absence was more due to him considering his next steps. Two days on, Maresca has gone. But how did things unravel? At the end of November, Chelsea appeared in a harmonious place, with the team third in the Premier League and having recently dismantled Barcelona in the Champions League. On 12 December, Maresca was named Premier League manager of the month for November. Just one league win followed in December but it was not only results that added to the focus on

Maresca, with fissures emerging between the Italian and the club’s hierarchy. Maresca stunned key figures at Stamford Bridge - and even his own staff - when, after beating Everton 2-0 forChelsea’s solitary Premier League win in December, he said “ many people” had made it his “worst 48 hours” since joining the club. Those comments came from a position of strength after a good performance but were viewed dimly by the club hierarchy, at whom they appeared to be aimed. They have since been explained as being linked to medical recommendations. Senior figures inside Chelseasaid instructions were ignored and decisions either risked players getting injured again - or prevented them from training because of overload. Maresca felt the club were telling him who to pick, based on a player’s value. Even after that, the plan remained to conduct an end-ofseason review to decide whether to move forward with Maresca or part company.

Owanta community has emerged winners of the maiden edition of the Ika Nation Football Tournament after coming from a goal down to beat Omumu 3 - 1 in a grueling encounter played at the Diagbor Primary School Foothall Pitch, Owerre-Olabor in Ika North-East Local Govemment Area of Delta State. Omumu from Ika South had taken the lead in the 27th minute but Owanta in Ika NorthEast drew level 15 minutes later. But two quick goals in the 55th and 58th minutes of the second half through eventual highest goal scorer, Destiny Isioma, hand Owanta the N1million prize money as well as a giant trophy. Earlier, Umunede in Ika North East hammered Abavo in Ika South 4-0 to claim the third

place prize The competition powered by the Udoka Nwaeweche Foundation attracted sons and daughters of Ika extraction from within and outside the state including the member representing Ika North East in the State House of Assembly, Hon. Marylyn Okowa Daramola as well as the Commissioner for Works and Public Information, Chief Charies Aniagwu and the Vice Chancellor of the University of Delta, Professor Stella Chiemeke The head of Udoka Nwaeweche Foundation, Hon. Udoka Kingsley Nwaewche, said the competition was put together to strengthen the unity among Ika Youths as well as taking them off the streets while giving them a platform to attain global attraction.

With the January registration window now open, Sean Dyche has confirmed that Aina is in contention for Saturday’s trip toVilla Park. “Ola comes back into the group now, which is good,” Dyche confirmed yesterday. “He’s in contention, he’s back in the group. He’s got a lot of miles on the clock, obviously, because he couldn’t come back into the squad (before January) anyway. “His injury’s fine, he feels fine, so certainly he’s back into the group, anyway.” Elsewhere in Germany, Victor Boniface is on the edge of hanging his boots finally. Sources in Germany has confirmed that Boniface has reached the end of his career. It was learnt that Werder Bremen and Bayer Leverkusen have agreed that Victor Boniface will need to undergo another knee

surgery. “The Nigerian striker has irreparable damage in his knee, putting his career in serious danger,” observed the source in Germany. This current development reinforces why AC Milan pulled out of signing Boniface last summer after the deal was about to be consummated. Medical in Milan revealed that Boniface’s right knee was in bad shape. The 24-year-old joined Leverkusen from Belgian side Union Saint-Gilloise in 2023 and was instrumental in his debut campaign at the BayArena, scoring 21 goals in 34 appearances as the German side lifted their first-ever Bundesliga title, won the DFB-Pokal, and finished as Europa League runners-up. However, the two ACL injuries he suffered, first in the 2018-19 season and then in the 2020-21

season, continue to be an issue for the striker. He missed 14 games last season due to multiple fitness problems. Following his failed medical, Boniface returned to Germany. The Super Eagles striker opened up on his battles with injuries and explained why his move to Milan ultimately collapsed. Speaking on a live stream, Boniface said: “The transfer didn’t work out because of my past injuries. I had two injuries to my right knee, and the problem has persisted for a long time. At one point, I had given up. While others were playing football, I was working just to get back to playing. After my second anterior cruciate ligament injury, I didn’t even want to play anymore because of the pain from the first one and what I had gone through during the second one. I also lost my mother during that time.”

Ola Aina...set to return to topflight football this weekend

L-R: Paul Onuachu, Raphael Onyedika, Churchill Oliseh and Frank Onyeka are some of the players that have benefited from Churchill Oliseh’s players’ management skills

Churchill Oliseh Using FC Ebedei as Owanta Community Emerges Champions of Ika Pathway to Stardom for Football Talents Nation Football Tourney Currently, FC Ebedei competes in and a future for its members, folFC Ebedei, one of Nigeria’s premier maintain that success. Many African football academies, was established in 1998. However, its foundation can be traced back to 1993 when Barrister Churchill Oliseh, a legal practitioner and astute sports businessman, began his career in player representation/management. Churchill is the elder brother of Sunday Oliseh, a Nigerian football legend and former Super Eagles Head Coach. In addition to Sunday, both Azubuike and Eguatu were also professional footballers, steering them, his foresight and his prior football career provided Churchill with a wealth of knowledge and a unique vision for the sport. Confronted with the declining state of Nigerian football, Oliseh recognized the reasons behind Nigerian players’ inability to reach the highest levels of the game or to

players viewed football merely as a pastime, a means to showcase flamboyance, and a temporary source of income without the necessity for commitment, training, or professionalism. Moreover, there was no distinctive brand of football that could be identified as uniquely Nigerian, unlike those of Cameroon, Ghana, Brazil, or South Africa. Through interactions with European football investors and administrators, Oliseh came to understand that the most influential role in football development was that of the Club President. This position allowed for the propagation and promotion of a specific brand of football and professionalism while influencing the growth of the team, its players, and the broader society.

the Nationwide League One (NLO), the third-tier of Nigerian football. Oliseh’s vision for the club was to serve as a feeder team for international clubs. There is no aspiration for FC Ebedei to gain promotion to Nigeria’s higher leagues, such as the Nigeria National League (NNL) or the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL). This approach helps keep the club’s operational costs manageable. Oliseh’s primary objective is straightforward: Identify outstanding raw talents, develop those players at FC Ebedei, and then promote them to overseas clubs as opportunities arise, primarily in countries like Denmark. It now includes a state of the art secondary school the EBEDEI SPORTS COLLEGE. FC Ebedei aims to provide hope

lowers, and the community. No other team in Africa has matched FC Ebedei’s impact on the current generation of players. Many of the academy’s graduates have reached the global stage and are actively contributing to Nigeria’s national teams. Notably, FC Ebedei has established itself as the African feeder team for FC Midtjylland, a club in the Danish Superliga. This partnership has facilitated the transfer of over 200 players from Nigeria to Denmark, Norway, Austria, Belgium, and beyond. Among these players are Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu, Frank Onyeka, Raphael Onyedika, as well as Ajilore Oluwafemi, Babajide Collins, Taofeek Salami, Rilwan Hassan, Sylvester Igboun and many others.

T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026

Price: N400

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VISIT TO THE FIRST BABY OF THE YEAR 2026 IN FCT...

L-R: Minister of Women Affairs, Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim; Minister of State FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud; Wife of the Vice President, Nana Shettima; and Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, during the visit to the First Baby of the Year 2026 at the Federal Medical Centre, Jabi, Abuja, yesterday PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI.

STEVEOSUJI EXPRESSO

Who Will Think Nigeria Out Of The Hole?

iant In A Hole: The only thing certain about Nigeria at the moment is that she’s in trouble, deep trouble. Nigeria is indeed at the crossroads and if there was any time requiring national introspection and concerted thought leadership, that time is now. This is not to say that she had never had ruptures and cataclysmic moments in her history. In fact, it can be said that Nigeria was conceived in the heat of a cunning colonial coitus and birthed in a charged atmosphere of upheavals waiting in the rafters. The flight of nationhood has therefore, been one of endless turbulence all of her three scores and five years. This has spanned two military coups, one civil war, many skirmishes in between and now, 17 years of sustained extremist Islamic insurgency and terror which currently threatens Nigeria’s very sovereignty. Terror which has overwhelmed three successive presidents, including the incumbent. And now this: America, or shall we say Mr. Donald Trump, incumbent POTUS walking into Nigeria, “gun a-blazing.” Nigeria is today besieged on many flanks and whatever is left of her sovereignty is being shredded before the eyes of the world. IN NEED OF GOOD MINDS: The country is like a lady looking on helplessly as she’s being ripped apart by contending barbarians. Nigeria has never been in need of thinking heads at any time more than now. We are in a moment begging for introspection. We are at a dire juncture where we are in need of eggheads, think-tanks, wise and wizened elders, just any elevated caucus of leadership that can piece our jigsaws together right now. The point is that Nigeria must think herself out of this mess. It’s a matter of urgent national importance. NO LEADERSHIP SUPPORT: But the trouble with Nigeria today is that she has become intellectually

President Bola Tinubu lame and bereft. It would seem that all the good minds in the land have gone into hiding. Apparently, many don’t seem to want to be associated with the Bola Tinubu presidency. President Tinubu himself has proved to be antiintellectual. Not being a man of letters, not giving a damn actually, Tinubu’s main joy is playing political and power games. Tactic, stratagem; to wheel, to deal and to capture power. Not one for high ideals or the rigours of philosophy. By the same token, Tinubu has no (high-minded) friends. He only has ‘boys’ and he has installed them in places requiring huge gray matter. But now is the time for mind work and he has no one to press to work. IN THE CROSSFIRE: Nigeria is caught in the crossfire of the two major contending forces in the world today and sadly, she has no leadership. Nigeria

is a miserable pawn in her own chessboard. In 17 years, Nigeria couldn’t manage to devise a coherent strategy to defeat extreme Islamic insurgencies on her soil. Today, Nigeria still has no clear-cut roadmap for engaging the American intervention led by President Donald Trump. Early November Trump had warned that the US would intervene if Nigeria’s leadership continues to dilly-dally on the extremists’ terror that’s encircling Nigeria. On the midnight of December 25th the US struck in Sokoto, northwestern Nigeria. About 16 guided missiles were targeted at ISIS forward camps. President Trump was first to inform the world via his social media handle that as Commander-in-Chief, he had ordered a strike in Nigeria. Of course, he never mentioned any collaboration with the Nigerian government. There was probably none. But hours after the reality of Trump’s brash offering had hit the world, Nigeria’s officials (Foreign and Information Ministers) made separate statements telling the world about “close coordination.” Of course nobody believed Nigeria’s government. Not even Nigerians. NEED FOR AN EMERGENCY TEAM: This initial embarrassment is more reason Nigeria must do more in this US-Nigeria collaboration. Setting up a small WAR-ROOM Team to manage this process may be in order. A team with a leader that can be trusted by the US will deepen collaboration. The leader must present as the face of the ‘war’ effort. He must be well respected by all. There must be regular briefings. There must be timelines, broad strategies, there must be regular briefing of Nigerians, most important, there must be timeframe for closure, etc SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC APPROACHES TOO:

As the missiles fly and the mop-ups follow, there’s need not to neglect the social and even economic aspects so that the problem would be properly closed. For instance, the almajiri system which provides manpower for terrorism in Nigeria must be outlawed. Open grazing must be phased out and Sharia practices curtailed. Nigeria is a secular state. On the economic front, the US could provide both technical support and funding for the rapid creation of model ranches across the 19 states of the north in the first phase. This would be a precursor for the gradual phase out of open grazing in Nigeria. These are just pointers to some of the thoughts president should be thinking right now. He needs good minds around him now, more than ever.

BOTTOM LINE: The Sovereignty Baloney

ebates have raged about Nigeria’s nationhood in the face of the US hauling missiles on her soil almost unilaterally. The point is that Nigeria has been unable to protect her sovereignty for well over a decade. Nigeria has therefore, been exposed as a mere swathe of unmanned territory. Nigeria definitely needs help to guard and manage her space like other countries. America can provide that support right now and Nigeria should actually count herself lucky to have such a lifeline. Recall that successive POTUS’ didn’t want to get involved. Yes, it won’t come free, or cheap, but let it come, it’s the lesser evil. CAVEAT: Are we keeping our eyes open in all of this? ##

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