FRIDAY 9TH JANUARY 2026 by THISDAY Newspapers Ltd

Tinubu Hails Corporate Nigeria, Other Stakeholders Over NGX N100trn Milestone in Capital Market Tasks Nigerians to deepen their investment in nation’s economy Assures 2026 will yield greater returns as government’s economic reforms deliver stronger results Deji Elumoye in Abuja President Bola Tinubu has hailed

corporate Nigeria, citizens, and other stakeholders in the Nigerian capital market for surpassing the

N100 trillion milestone on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX). Tinubu, in a statement issued

on Thursday by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described the record

achievement as an inspiration for the investing public operating in the money and capital markets.

He urged Nigerians to deepen Continued on page 9

NUPRC, NMDPRA Deepen Partnership, Set to Resolve Regulatory Overlaps, Other Issues... Page 5 Friday 9 January, 2026 Vol 30. No 11233. Price: N400

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Lagos Assembly Passes Sanwo-Olu’s N4.4 Trillion 2026 Budget... Page 8

Mark: ADC Reviewing Its Constitution for Inclusiveness, Accountability and Fairness Chuks Okocha in Abuja National Chairman of African

Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, has said the party is reviewing its constitu-

tion to ensure it reflects present realities, meets future challenges, and aligns with global best

practices in democratic party administration. Mark, who spoke at the

inauguration of a 22-member ADC Constitution Review Committee in Abu-ja, yesterday,

explained that the exercise was not about changing principles Continued on page 9

Rivers Assembly Begins Third Impeachment Proceedings Against Fubara APC fights back, warns lawmakers CD urges Tinubu to rein in Wike, as INC, IYC warn against escalation of hostilities HURIWA rejects impeachment plot It’s not corrective measure, it’s political misadventure, group alleges

Story on page 9

CELEBRATION OF LABOUR ICON, HASSAN SUNMONU, ON HIS 85TH BIRTHDAY...

L-R: Former President, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Ayuba Wabba; former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. Boss Mustapha; wife of the celebrant, Alhaja Wasilat Sunmonu; her husband and author of the book, Comrade Hassan Sunmonu; Senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole; and former Governor of Osun State and former Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, during the celebration of labour icon, Hassan Sunmonu, on his 85th birthday in Abuja …recently

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THISDAY • FRIDAY, JANUARY 9, 2026

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

NEWS

IBIDUN IGHODALO FOUNDATION...

L-R: Beneficiary, Ibidunni Ighodalo Foundation, Mrs. Dike Joan; mother of late Pastor Ibidunni Ighodalo, Chief Mrs. Monilola Ajayi; Chairman of the Foundation and Senior Pastor, Trinity House, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo; Executive Secretary, Ibidunni Ighodalo Foundation, Mrs. Grace Ogunniyi; and Medical Director, Lagos Island Maternity Hospital, Dr. Adeiyi Taiwo, during a courtesy visit to the Lagos Island Maternity Hospital, where they made a presentation to Mrs. Dike Joan, who recently gave birth to triplets, as part of the Foundation’s New Year activities in Lagos …recently

KPMG Identifies Errors, Inconsistencies, Gaps, Others in New Tax Laws

Says shortfalls need urgent reconsideration to attain stated objectives of tax reform Seeks action on controlled foreign companies, taxation of nonresident persons, imposition of tax, deductions allowed, others Calls for exclusion of withholding tax on insurance premiums paid to non-residents James Emejo in Abuja

Global advisory services firm, KPMG has exposed gaps, errors, omissions, and inconsistencies in the new Nigeria Tax Act (NTA), calling for urgent reviews to ensure the attainment of the stated tax reform objectives. Some of the identified shortfalls bothered on clarity among other critical oversights in the legislation. KPMG in its latest newsletter titled, “Nigeria’s New Tax Laws: Inherent Errors, Inconsistencies, Gaps and Omissions”, reaffirmed the potential of the laws to transform tax administration in the country. It stated, “There are many provisions in these laws that will result in increased revenue for the government, if well implemented. However, there is always the need to strike a delicate balance between revenue generation and sustainable growth. “It is, therefore, critical that the government review the gaps, omissions, inconsistencies and lacunae highlighted in this Newsletter to ensure the attainment of the desired objectives.” The firm noted that as with any tax reform, the new tax laws aimed to achieve equity and fairness; simplification and efficiency of tax administration; competitiveness; adapt to changing economic conditions; combat tax avoidance and tax evasion; improve revenue generation and stimulate economic growth. But it stressed that certain errors, inconsistencies, gaps, omissions, and lacunae in the new tax laws must be urgently reconsidered to achieve desired objectives. Citing an error/gap in Section 17(3) (b) of the NTA which bothered on taxation of non-resident persons, KPMG recommended that Section 6(1) of the NTAA should be updated to include not only non-residents that derive passive income from investments in Nigeria but also income in which the deduction at source is the final tax.

This, it stated, would clearly absolve non-residents from the tax registration requirement where they have no Permanent Establishment (PE) or Significant Economic Presence (SEP) in the country. The report stated, “This section specifies the conditions under which profits derived by a non-resident are taxable in Nigeria. Although Section 17(4) of the NTA states that payment deducted at source in respect of payments by Nigerian residents to non-residents, irrespective of where the service is rendered, shall be final tax where the non-resident has no permanent establishment (PE) or Significant Economic Presence (SEP) in Nigeria to which the payment is attributable, it does not clearly absolve the non-resident from tax registration requirements under Section 6(1) of the NTAA. “This in, our view, cannot be the intention of the law. The intention should be that non-residents that do not have PE or SEP in the country should not be required to file tax returns as provided for in Section 11(3) of the NTAA.” Also, on Section 3(b)&(c) of the NTA which pertained to imposition of tax, KPMG recommended that if the intention is to impose tax on communities, this should be explicitly introduced in the section, otherwise, the law should clearly state that communities are now exempt from tax. It said, “The section specifies persons on whom taxes should be levied, including individuals, families, companies or enterprises, trustees, and an estate, but omits ‘community. However, community’ is included in the definition of ‘person’ under Section 201.” The report further urged the government to modify Section 6(2) of the NTA, concerning Controlled Foreign Companies (CFC), by providing clarity on the treatment of foreign and local dividends. It noted, “The Act states that undistributed foreign profits are to be ‘construed as distributed’ but also mandates that they be

“included in the profits of the Nigerian company” (implying income tax at 30 per cent). “Though dividend distributed by a Nigerian company is deemed to be franked investment income, this does not appear to be the case with dividends distributed by foreign companies. “It thus appears that such dividends will be taxed at the income tax rate. Consequently, there will be differences in the treatment of dividends distributed by Nigerian companies and those distributed by foreign companies.” In addition, KPMG recommended that Section 6(1) of the NTAA on taxation of non-resident persons be updated to include not only non-residents that derive passive income from investments in Nigeria but also income in which the deduction at source is the final tax, adding that this would clearly absolve non-residents from the tax registration requirement where they have no PE or SEP in the country. The audit firm also sought

amendment to Section 20(4) of the NTA regarding tax deductions allowed. The section states that expenses incurred in a currency other than the naira may only be deducted to the extent of its naira equivalent at the official exchange rate published by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). According to KPMG, this implied that where a business buys forex at a rate that is higher than the official rate, such a company cannot claim tax deduction for the difference in value between the official and the other rates. The intention, it noted, is to discourage speculative foreign exchange transactions and encourage the appreciation of the naira, adding however, that issues surrounding the accessibility of all forex needs due to supply problems have not been fully considered. The firm said, “We do not think that this condition is necessary at this time. With the current state of the economy, focus should be on improving liquidity and introducing

stricter reporting requirements to track and monitor foreign exchange transactions.” Furthermore, KPMG picked holes in Section 21 of the NTA which includes expenses on which VAT had not been charged. The firm said, “This means that such expenses will not be considered allowable tax deductions even when those expenses have been validly incurred for business purposes. This implies that a company could be held accountable for any inaction or non-performance by its suppliers or service providers. “While the defaulting service providers may eventually be required to pay the VAT during an audit or investigation, the company will have already been denied the ability to claim a deduction for the related expense.” It stated, “The only criteria should be that any expense that is wholly and exclusively incurred for business purposes should be allowable for tax purposes.” On Section 27 of the NTA which

dwelt on ascertainment of total profits of companies, KPMG called for the modification to specify the deduction of capital losses. It said, “The NTA is not definite on whether capital loss, other than that arising from the disposal of digital or virtual assets, is deductible. However, we believe that the intention is for such losses to be deductible.” KPMG also reviewed Section 30 of the NTA on ascertainment of chargeable income of an individual. The firm pointed out that in determining the taxable income of an individual, the section limits the deductible items to contribution to the National Housing Fund (NHF), contribution to National Health Insurance Scheme, pension contribution, annuity and life insurance. premium, interest on mortgage for developing owner-occupied residential house, rent relief of 20 per cent of annual rent, subject to a maximum of N500,000. Continues online

UBA Exceeds N500bn CBN’s Capital Requirement After Raising N157.84bn Kayode Tokede United Bank for Africa Plc (UBA) has exceeded the N500 billion capital requirement of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) after successfully raising N157.84 billion from its fully subscribed rights issue on the floor of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX). An investigation conducted by THISDAY revealed that UBA, as at half-year (H1) ended June 30, 2025 audited results, had a share capital and share premium at approximately N350 billion. Following the successful completion of the second tranche

of its rights issue, for which the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) approved the allotment of N157.84 billion to shareholders, the bank’s total share capital now exceeds the N500 billion minimum capital requirement prescribed by CBN. The management of UBA offered shareholders a rights issue of 3,156,869,665 ordinary shares at N50 per share, on the basis of one new share for every 13 existing shares held by shareholders on the register as of July 16, 2025. At the close of the acceptance list on September 19, 2025, UBA initially received 6,404

applications for 4.13 billion shares valued at N206.74billion. Following scaling adjustments by shareholders, the final allotment amounted to 3.16 billion shares worth N157.84 billion, representing 100 per cent subscription of the rights issue. A breakdown of the subscriptions shows that 6,404 valid applications were received for 3.57 billion shares valued at N178.3billion, while 568.7 million shares valued at N28.43 billion were deemed invalid. Full acceptances accounted for 453.58 million shares, and partial acceptances totalled 135.27 million shares, resulting

in 190.93 million shares partially renounced. During the exercise, a total of 2,568,006,215 shares were renounced and reallocated. Applications for additional shares amounted to 2.98 billion shares valued at N148.86 billion, of which 2.57 billion shares valued at N128.4 billion were allotted, following a scale-down by one shareholder. The PAC Registrars and Investor Services Limited will credit the CSCS accounts of allottees by Friday, January 16, 2026, while surplus subscription monies will be returned by Tuesday, January 13, 2026.

firday, JANUARY 9, 2026 • T H I S D AY

THISDAY • FRIDAY, JANUARY 9, 2026

NEWS

BARAU RECEIVES HOLY QUR’AN AT AL-HIKMAH VARSITY’S 15TH CONVOCATION...

L- R: Vice-Chancellor of the Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, Kwara State, Professor Lateef Folorunsho Oladimeji; Founder of the university, Alhaji Abdulraheem Oladimeji; Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, and Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council of the institution, Alhaja Sekinat O.Yusuf, during the 15th Convocation Ceremony of the University on Wednesday. PHOTO: DPS MEDIA OFFICE

NUPRC, NMDPRA Deepen Partnership, Set to Resolve Regulatory Overlaps, Other Issues Eyesan seeks support on ongoing licensing round Upstream regulator fixes January 14 for pre-bid conference on 2025 licensing round Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Peter Uzoho in Lagos The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) yesterday took significant steps toward enhancing regulatory efficiency and closing noticeable overlaps.

This renewed collaboration was formalised yesterday during a meeting held at the commission’s corporate headquarters in Abuja, a statement by the NUPRC’s Head of Media and Strategic Communication, Eniola Akinkuotu, said. According to the statement, during the meeting, both the commission and the NMDPRA

agreed to work more closely, nominating representatives from each organisation to address and resolve regulatory issues. These efforts were aimed at promoting the overall interests of the industry, ensuring a seamless regulatory process across the sector and encouraging investments in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, the statement added.

To strengthen their partnership, NUPRC and NMDPRA resolved to hold quarterly meetings and the regular interactions designed to enhance their working relationship and promptly address any challenges that may arise while regulating. Speaking at the meeting, the Commission Chief Executive of the NUPRC, Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa

Tinubu Rejoices With NRS Chairman, Zacch Adedeji on 48th Birthday Lauds his visionary and charismatic dedication towards restructuring nation’s revenue profile

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has rejoiced with the Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), Dr Zacch Adedeji on his 48th birthday. Tinubu, in a release issued on Thursday by presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, commended Adedeji’s sterling leadership of the 83-year-old revenue agency, the introduction of fresh ideas, the adoption of global best practices, the automation

of systems, and the upskilling of staff members for the greater good of the nation. “I salute the NRS Chairman for his visionary and charismatic dedication in restructuring, aligning and managing the revenue profile of the country. “He recorded a historic achievement, meeting the budget targets in the Third Quarter of 2025, and stimulating the economy for prosperity. “Zacch has also been in-

strumental in the adoption of the National Single Window, a transformative federal digital platform to streamline import and export processes, enhance transparency and reduce cargo clearance from 21 days to one week,” the President remarked. Tinubu prayed that the Almighty God will grant the NRS Chairman more years of good health, wisdom and strength to keep serving the nation. Adedeji previously served as

a senior member of Procter & Gamble’s management team, as Commissioner of Finance for Oyo State, and as Executive Secretary of the National Sugar Development Council, where he established the National Sugar Institute. He also served as Special Adviser to the President on Revenue before being appointed as FIRS chairman in September 2023.

sador Tuggar framed Europe and Africa not as distant continents but as interconnected regions whose destinies are historically and economically linked. Speaking under the theme, “Good Neighbourliness: Building Bridges or Building Walls,” he urged policymakers to focus on tangible realities rather than abstract divisions, highlighting the Mediterranean as a historic connector of peoples.

Tuggar recounted Africa’s longstanding contributions to the modern world - from the trans-Saharan gold trade of the 14th century to early Atlantic commerce in sugar and palm oil—emphasising that contemporary relations cannot ignore this shared past. He proposed that Africa be recognised alongside Europe and Ibero-America as a core component of Spain’s broader historical identity.

President Bola Tinubu on Thursday commiserated with renowned writer, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, and her family over the demise of her son, Nkanu Nnamdi. In a condolence message, Tinubu also mourned with Adichie’s husband, Dr Ivara Esege, and the entire family, describing the loss as a devastating tragedy. He stated, “With a deep

Eyesan underscored the importance of synergy between the two organisations, highlighting that cooperation was essential for the industry’s growth. She emphasised that the oil and gas sector was vital to the nation’s economy and that both agencies serve as enablers for its continued development. She said: “Whether we are talking about the upstream, midstream or the downstream, we are enablers for the industry and without a doubt, we know that the industry is the heartbeat of the nation’s economy. So, we are committed to ensuring that things work properly and the industry grows astronomically. “We cannot do that if we do not work together because as we all know, sometimes there is no fine line between upstream, midstream and downstream. And if we are not working together, then that becomes a problem. So, I believe that this will be the beginning of many more interactions.” She described the meeting as a testament to a renewed commitment, stating that both agencies were “putting forces together to ensure that the industry grows.”

Eyesan also sought support from NMDPRA in the ongoing licensing round and invited the Authority Chief Executive, Mr. Saidu Mohammed to the pre-bid conference scheduled to take place at Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos on January 14, 2026. NUPRC said the licensing round, which offers 50 oil and gas blocks, was expected to attract substantial investments and contribute to an increase in the nation’s reserves. In his remarks, Mohammed emphasised the shared history of both agencies, referring to them as offshoots of the defunct Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR). He stressed the need for harmonious cooperation, saying: “We must improve this relationship between brother and sister agencies,” and pointed out that any differences should be resolved internally and amicably. The partnership marks a renewed commitment by NUPRC and NMDPRA to fostering regulatory efficiency and driving investments in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, promising long-term benefits for the nation’s economy.

President Tinubu Commiserates with Nigeria Urges Europe, Africa Chimamanda Adichie on Son’s Demise to Build Bridges, Not Walls Deji Elumoye inAbuja sense of grief, I condole with the difficult period. “I empathise with the family Ms Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Michael Olugbode in Abuja

Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar has called on Europe and Africa to reject isolationist tendencies and embrace a partnership rooted in shared history, geography, and responsibility. Delivering the keynote address at the 2026 Annual Conference of Spanish Ambassadors in Madrid, attended by 182 diplomats, Ambas-

her husband, Dr Ivara Esege, and the entire family on the passing of their son, Nkanu Nnamdi.” Drawing from personal experience, Tinubu noted the profound pain associated with loss of a child, saying, “As a parent myself, who has suffered the loss of a loved one, no grief is as devastating as losing a child.” The president said he shared in the family’s sorrow and stood in solidarity with them during

at this difficult time, and I mourn this sad loss with them,” he said. Tinubu also paid tribute to Adichie’s global literary influence, describing her as a cultural figure whose work has touched lives across the world. “Ms Adichie is a literary icon who has brought joy and light to many homes globally, and I pray she and her family find strength in the Almighty in this trying hour,” the president said.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 9, 2026 • THISDAY

NEWS

9TH AFRIMA WELCOME SOIRÉE FOR NOMINEES AND GUESTS...

L-R: President and Executive Producer, All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), Mr. Mike Dada; British Deputy High Commissioner, Mr. Jonny Baxter; and AFRIMA Patron, Mr. Bisi Onasanya, during the 9th AFRIMA Welcome Soirée for nominees and guests, held at the residence of the British Deputy High Commissioner, Ikoyi, Lagos, on Wednesday

Lagos Assembly Passes SanwoOlu’s N4.4 Trillion 2026 Budget Segun James Lagos State’s N4.4 trillion 2026 “Budget of Shared Prosperity” has been passed by the state House of Assembly. The budget, which was increased by N171 billion above what Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu submitted, prioritised infrastructure, education, healthcare, economic growth, and social development, with over 52 per cent allocated to capital projects to drive inclusive growth across the state. The 2026 fiscal year was approved by members following the adoption of the report of the House Committee on Economic Planning and Budget. The committee chairman, Hon. Sa’ad Olumoh, presented the report during plenary on Thursday, detailing the assumptions, projections, and structure of the 2026 Appropriation Bill, tagged, “Budget of Shared Prosperity”. According to the report, the 2026 budget represents the third budget cycle of the current administration and the final new-cycle budget of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term.

It was aligned with the administration’s development agenda, anchored on four strategic pillars: human-centric development, modern and adaptive infrastructure, a thriving 21st-century megacity economy, and effective governance that exceeds citizens’ expectations. Olumoh stated that the budget framework was informed by macroeconomic indices, including an exchange rate benchmark of N1,512 to the dollar, an inflation rate of 14.7 per cent, oil production of 2.06 million barrels per day, and a benchmark oil price of $64 per barrel. The committee also reviewed the 2025 budget performance, reporting a cumulative budget performance of 79 per cent as of November 2025. Capital expenditure performance stood at 75 per cent, recurrent expenditure at 87 per cent, while overall revenue performance was put at 79 per cent. For the 2026 fiscal year, the approved budget size stands about N4.4 trillion, with proposed recurrent expenditure of N2.052 trillion and capital expenditure of N2.185 trillion.

The capital component represents a significant portion of the budget, underscoring the state government’s commitment to infrastructure development. The budget included provisions for personnel costs, overheads, debt servicing, and debt repayment, with a projected deficit of about N243 billion to be financed through approved deficit financing options.

Former Governor of Enugu State and elder statesman, Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo, has called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently investigate alleged alterations to the newly passed tax law, describing the discrepancies between what was approved by the National Assembly and what was eventually gazetted as deeply troubling. The former National Secretary of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) warned that such irregularities undermined public trust and democratic accountability. He urged the president to

ensure full transparency by determining how the changes occurred, holding those responsible to account, and reassuring Nigerians that the tax reform process was being conducted in the national interest. Speaking in an interview with THISDAY, the elder statesman said the issue was one of major concern to the party. According to him, Nigerians have engaged the executive robustly before the tax law was passed, and rightly so. “Every adult Nigerian who is eligible to pay tax ought to do so for the country to survive. Nobody is against renewing tax laws to

Lagos that benefits all residents. “Our mission remains clear, to eradicate poverty and build a Lagos that works for all,” the governor said. He stated that the budget was anchored on four strategic pillars: a human-centred approach, modern infrastructure, a thriving economy, and good governance. During deliberations on the budget, lawmakers commended

the budget, describing it as realistic and growth-oriented. Hon. Aro Moshood disclosed that an additional N171 billion was added to the budget during the review process. Hon. Femi Saheed said the size and structure of the budget showed that Lagos State remained on a strong economic footing, provided all stakeholders played their roles.

Mbah Lauds Ex-servicemen’s Sacrifices, Wants Sustainable Welfare Scheme for Nigerian Legion Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has praised Nigeria’s exservicemen and fallen heroes for the selfless sacrifices they had made to ensure the safety of citizens and the nation’s territorial integrity. He made the commendation at the official unveiling and launch of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem held at the Michael Okpara Square,

Investigate Alleged Alterations to New Tax Law, Nwodo Urges President Tinubu Linus Aleke in Abuja

Sanwo-Olu had on Tuesday, November 25, 2025 presented a proposed N4.237 trillion budget for the 2026 fiscal year to the state House of Assembly. Sanwo-Olu tagged the budge, “Budget of Shared Prosperity.” During the address before the 40-member Assembly, the governor emphasised that the 2026 budget proposal was designed to promote shared prosperity and build a

make the system more efficient,” he said. However, Nwodo expressed concern that there might be a hidden agenda, which he said now appeared to be unfolding before the public. He said it was “totally embarrassing” for members of the National Assembly to claim that the law they passed was not what was ultimately gazetted. “A government that is working for the people should be asking critical questions, such as: who sent this piece of legislation to the press for printing? Where did the copy sent to the press come from?” he stated.

Enugu. “Today is not much about the donations only, but it is about the acknowledgement of the sacrifices that the veterans made - sacrifices rooted in the personal willingness to lay their lives for the rest of us,” he said. “It is important that we express to you how we feel about your selfless sacrifices, securing our democracy, strengthening our ability and above all protecting our territorial integrity (thereby) ensuring that each and every one of us is able to explore and exploit our God given talents”. Mbah, represented by the deputy governor, Ifeanyi Ossai,

noted that time has come to go beyond the annual ritual of emblem launch, to put in place a sustainable welfare for the Nigerian Legion. He enjoined members of the Nigerian Legion to come up with a programme, engage the government “on how we can work with you to make things right, meaningfully and sustainably, for those that served”. The governor stated his government has already embarked on aggressive efforts to rebuild Enugu State and expand opportunities for those who live here, including the ex-servicemen. He assured the veterans that “if

you look inward and develop an engagement protocol, we will be able to develop a partnership that will be sustainable and beneficial to you and to us as a people”. Earlier in his address, the Deputy Commandant General and Enugu State Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Dr. Emeka Norman Igwesi, expressed gratitude to the governor for his concern for both the living and fallen heroes. “Your government has been giving us support,” he said, adding that more was needed “to support the fallen heroes’ project the more they can and also support the project of the living heroes”.

AFCON 2025: No More Delays in Super Eagles’ Bonuses, Says Uzoka-Anite Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja The federal government assured yesterday that it had successfully streamlined administrative processes relating to the payment of bonuses for the national team, Super Eagles, in the ongoing African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, gave the assurance in a post in her

official X handle, while addressing concerns over delayed payments to members of the national football team. According to her, the federal government and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) had resolved foreign exchange bottlenecks affecting the prompt settlement of players’ entitlements. Her clarification were sequel to reports that the Super Eagles players threatened to boycott

training, and declined travelling to Marrakech for Saturday’s quarterfinal encounter with Algeria. Uzoka-Anite said, “All groupstage bonuses have been fully released and cleared required regulatory stages. There will be no further administrative delays,” adding that authorities implemented a fast-track conversion process to meet players’ preference for foreign currency payments.

THISDAY • FRIDAY, JANUARY 9, 2026

NINE

NCC, CBN to Roll Out Refund Framework for Failed Airtime, Data Transactions

Emma Okonji

Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) have drawn up a framework to address consumer complaints arising from unsuccessful airtime and data transactions during network downtimes, system glitches, or human input errors. The framework is the outcome of several months of engagement involving NCC, CBN, Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), Value Added Service (VAS) providers, Deposit Money Banks (DMBs), and other relevant stakeholders. The engagements were prompted by a rising incidence of failed airtime and data

purchases, where subscribers were debited without receiving value and experienced delays in resolution. According to a statement released by NCC, signed by its Head, Public Affairs, Nnenna Ukoha, the framework represents a unified position by both the telecommunications and financial sectors on addressing such complaints. It identifies and tackles the root causes of failed airtime and data transactions, including instances where bank accounts are debited without successful delivery of services. It also prescribes an enforceable Service Level Agreement (SLA) for MNOs and DMBs, clearly outlining the roles and responsibilities of each

stakeholder in the transaction and resolution process. The statement said, “Under the new framework, where a purchaser is debited but fails to receive value for airtime or data—whether the failure occurs at the bank level or with an NCC licensee—the purchaser is entitled to a refund within 30 seconds, except in circumstances where the transaction remains pending, of which the refund can take up to 24 hours. “The framework further mandates operators to notify consumers via SMS of the success or failure of every transaction. It also addresses erroneous recharges to ported lines, incorrect airtime or data purchases, and instances where

transactions are made to the wrong phone number.” Speaking on the development, Director of Consumer Affairs at NCC, Mrs. Freda Bruce-Bennett, disclosed that the framework also established a Central Monitoring Dashboard to be jointly hosted by NCC and CBN. According to her, the dashboard will enable both regulators to monitor failures, the responsible party, refunds, and track SLA breaches in real time. Bruce-Bennett stated, “Failed top-ups rank among the top three consumer complaints, and in line with our commitment to addressing these priority issues, we were determined to resolve it within the shortest possible

time,” she said. “We are grateful to all stakeholders—particularly the Central Bank of Nigeria and its leadership—for their tireless commitment to resolving this issue and arriving at this framework, and for ensuring that consumers of telecommunications services receive full value for their purchases. “So far, pending the approval of management of both regulators on the framework, MNOs and banks have collectively made refunds of over N10 billion to customers for failed transactions.” Bruce-Bennett further stated that implementation of the framework would commence on March 1, 2026, once the

NCC Boss, Dr. Aminu Maida two regulators have made final approvals, and technical integration by all MNOs, VAS providers, and DMBs is concluded.

RIVERS ASSEMBLY BEGINS THIRD IMPEACHMENT PROCEEDINGS AGAINST FUBARA

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

In renewed hostilities between the executive and legis-lative arms of the Rivers State government, the House of Assembly, yesterday, commenced fresh impeach-ment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, effective-ly halting his presentation of the 2026 Appropriation Bill. It was the third time Fubara and Odu would be facing impeachment proceedings from the Assembly since coming to office in 2023. Attempts to impeach them in 2023 and 2025, amid political feuds between the gov-ernor and his predecessor and erstwhile political god-father, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, had been halted by presidential intervention. But Publicity Secretary of All

Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, Darlington Nwauju, rejected the resort to impeachment against the governor and his deputy, warning the Assembly to desist from the move. Campaign for Democracy (CD) called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently caution Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, over his “immature and destabilising” political conduct in Rivers State. ljaw National Congress (INC) and Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) also warned politicians against political hostilities in Rivers State. Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) rejected the moves to impeach Fubara, describing it as reckless, unconstitutional and a grave danger to peace and democratic stability in the state. Similarly, APC Progressive Mandate Group called for the immediate cessation of the

impeachment proceedings, describing it as constitutionally flawed, politically motivated, and a direct affront to the peace accord personally brokered by Tinubu. However, the lawmakers commenced the impeachment proceedings during plenary yesterday, televised live, over allegations of gross misconduct against the governor and his deputy. The motion sponsored by Deputy Speaker, Dumle Maol, and another member, mandating an investigation into the governor’s financial and administrative actions, was adopted by the Assembly led by Speaker, Martins Amaehwule. The lawmakers alleged that the governor failed to submit the Mid-Term Expenditure Framework as required by law, claiming that he spent public funds without legislative appropriation. They alleged that the actions amounted to grave violations

MARK: ADC REVIEWING ITS CONSTITUTION FOR INCLUSIVENESS, ACCOUNTABILITY AND FAIRNESS

but “about strengthening them”. The former President of the Senate directed the committee to thoroughly review the existing ADC constitution and identify areas requiring amendment, clarification, or updating. He said the exercise aimed to ensure clarity, fairness, inclusiveness, and accountability in the party’s structures and processes. Mark stated, “A party’s constitution is its moral compass and legal backbone. It defines our ideology, guides our conduct, regulates our internal processes, and safeguards internal democracy.” He said the party wanted a constitution that empowered its members, promoted unity, resolved disputes fairly, and positioned ADC as a credible alternative for national leadership. “The inauguration of the ADC Constitution Review Committee underscores our collective resolve to build a party founded on strong democratic values, internal cohesion, and effective governance,” he stated. He disclosed that members of the committee were carefully selected based on their experience, integrity, and commitment to the ideals of the party. He reminded them that they carried a great responsibility and urged them “to approach this assignment with open minds,

broad consultations, and an unwavering commitment to the collective interest of the ADC”. He told the committee, “You must listen to the voices of party members at all levels, respect our founding values, and produce a constitution that strengthens internal democracy, enhances discipline, and guarantees transparency in party affairs.” The committee, which was given 11 terms of reference, was instructed to ensure that the revised constitution aligned with global best practices in democratic governance, party administration, and internal democracy. It was also expected to produce a revised constitution that promoted inclusiveness, transparency, equity, and fair participation of all members, including women, youths, and persons with disabilities. Other areas of review included provisions relating to party primaries, congresses, dispute resolution, discipline, and sanctions to ensure fairness and credibility, as well as the roles, powers, and relationships of party organs at all levels to enhance efficiency, accountability, and coordination. The committee must also ensure that the ADC constitution complied with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of

Nigeria and relevant electoral laws and regulations, according to the mandate. Chairman of the ADC Constitution Review Committee, Etigwe Uwa, SAN, said the review was not because the current constitution was flawed, “but the purpose is to make the constitution much better”. Uwa described the fractionalisation and multiplicity of party officials up to the unit level as novel, adding that the committee would critically examine it “as a means of grassroots penetration and mobilisation”. He assured that the committee would work with despatch, “realising the urgency, and would utilize both physical and virtual means to achieve our goals. “We will seek inputs from as many members as possible and do our best to produce a near-ideal, autochthonous, and workable constitution that enjoys buy-in and acceptance across the party and the country.” Members of the committee included former ADC National Chairman, Dr. Ralphs Nwosu; Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe; and former Imo State Governor, Emeka Ihedioha. The committee was given 30 days to submit an interim report and proposed amendments to the National Working Committee (NWC).

of constitutional provisions and undermined the authority of the legislature. Sometime in 2023, the lawmakers, believed to be loyal to Wike, had commenced impeachment process against Fubara, which action created serious tension in the state following the reaction from the governor’s camp. The crisis culminated in a six-month suspension of the governor, his deputy, and the Assembly by the president after declaring emergency rule in the state. During yesterday’s deliberations, the members, who recently defected from Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to APC, accused Fubara of “recalcitrant disobedience” to Tinubu. They claimed that the president had intervened multiple times to broker peace in the state’s lingering political crisis. They alleged that the governor failed to honour resolutions reached. Speaker of the Assembly, Amaewhule, while addressing the chamber, said the Assembly would not abdicate its constitutional responsibilities. “We will follow due process to the letter. The law must take its full course,” Amaewhule declared, vowing that the impeachment proceedings would be pursued to their logical conclusion. The speaker further cited a

Supreme Court judgement, which he claimed indicted both the governor and his deputy, insisting that the unfolding crisis should not be framed as a personal conflict between Fubara and Wike. “This is not about personalities. The governor is not fighting any individual; he is fighting against the constitution,” Amaewhule stated. As part of the resolutions reached, the Assembly barred Fubara from presenting the Mid-Term Expenditure Framework and the 2026 budget until the conclusion of the probe into the alleged misconducts. It was expected that the judiciary would commence investigation into the allegations in the coming days. A Rivers State High Court, sitting in Port Harcourt, had in July 2025 issued an ex parte order barring Chief Judge of the state and Clerk of the House of Assembly from dealing with Amaewhule and 26 other lawmakers loyal to Wike. Justice Jumbo Stephen ordered that the chief judge, the clerk, and other defendants in the suit should “not act on any resolutions, articles of impeachment or others” from Amaewhule and 26 other pro-Wike lawmakers. The judge granted the order in a suit marked PHC/2177/CS/2024 filed by the Rivers State AttorneyGeneral and Commissioner for Justice, and Fubara.

Among residents of the state, reaction to the impeachment move ranged from expression deep concern about the implications of the Assembly’s action for governance, budgeting, and economic stability, to condemnation of the move as “the last kick of a dying horse”. Critics of the lawmakers alleged that the impeachment move was a desperate attempt to assert relevance after failing to secure direct access to the president to press claims that the governor breached earlier political agreements. Reacting on the development, the factional state publicity secretary of APC, Nwauju, advised the lawmakers to resist pressures from outside the Assembly to destablise the government of Fubara. Nwauju, in a statement, titled, “Rivers APC rejects impeachment process against Gov Sim Fubara,” said the party would do everything in its power to ensure that the government of Rivers State, being an APC government, was not destabilised through fratricidal disagreements. Nwauju stated, “We concede that the legislature is an independent arm in the tripod of governance, and the constitutional responsibilities of checks and balances are within their democratic purview. “Our position as of today on Continued on page 36

TINUBU HAILS CORPORATE NIGERIA, OTHER STAKEHOLDERS OVER NGX N100TRN MILESTONE IN CAPITAL MARKET their investments in the local economy, assuring that 2026 will yield even greater returns as his administration’s economic reforms continue to deliver stronger outcomes. According to Tinubu, “With the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) crossing the historic N100 trillion market capitalisation mark, the country is witnessing the birth of a new economic reality and rejuvenation. “In 2025, while many of the world’s markets struggled with stagnation or tepid recovery, the NGX All-Share Index was on the ascent. It closed 2025 with a 51.19% return, higher than the 37.65% recorded in 2024. This performance ranks among the highest in the world. Year-to-date returns have significantly outpaced the S&P 500, the FTSE 100, and even many of our emerging-market peers in the BRICS+ group. “Nigeria is no longer a frontier market to be ignored—it is now a compelling destination where value is being discovered. As the stock market reflects the entire

economy, its stellar performance is a significant indicator of the country’s economic health and the confidence investors have in our economy.” The president said, “On the NGX, we have witnessed remarkable performances from listed companies across all sectors. From blue-chip industrial giants that have localised their supply chains, to a banking sector that has demonstrated resilience and technological innovation, Nigerian companies are proving that the country can deliver strong returns on investment. “And we are just getting started. The pipeline for new and upcoming listings looks robust. More indigenous energy firms, tech unicorns, telecoms, and infrastructure-heavy entities are seeking to access the public market to fund their expansion. As these firms are listed, they will boost market capitalisation and deepen democratic ownership of the Nigerian economy.” He explained, “We are not

celebrating the superlative stock market performance in isolation. We are also celebrating the microeconomic effects of our reforms. After the initial headwinds that followed our reforms, we are finally seeing a bend in the inflation curve. “Crucial monetary tightening and the removal of distortionary ‘Ways and Means’ financing have restored stability to the Naira. Furthermore, investments in the agriculture sector have contributed to a consistent decline in inflation over the past eight months. From a 24-month high of 34.8 per cent in December 2024, inflation decelerated to 14.45 per cent as of November 2025, with projections indicating it will reach 12 per cent in 2026. Indeed, inflation is likely to fall below 10 per cent before the end of this year, leading to improved living standards and accelerated GDP growth. The year 2026 promises to be an epochal year for delivering prosperity to Continued on page 34

firday, JANUARY 9, 2026 • T H I S D AY

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 9, 2026 • THISDAY

NEWS

FOSTERING EXCELLENCE, PARTNERSHIP AND INNOVATION IN LEGAL PRACTICE...

L-R: Principal Partner, Danyaya Jurist Law Consult, Alhaji Alkali Adamu; Senior Partner, Yusuf Ali & Co., Prof. Mubarak Adekilekun; General Secretary, Nigerian Bar Association, Dr. Mobolaji Ojibara; Principal Partner, Eko Ejembi Eko & Co., Mr. Eko Ejembi; Principal Partner, Yakubu Philemon SAN & Co., Mr. Yakubu Philemon; and Chief Counsel, Hezekiah & Co., Mr. Hezekiah Ivoke, during an in-house legal training programme on Fostering Excellence, Partnership and Innovation in Legal Practice, organised by Hezdeking & Co. (LawKings) in conjunction with Danyaya Jurist, held in Abuja, yesterday PHOTO: ENOCK REUBEN

US Exits 66 International Organisations in Renewed Drive for ‘America First’ Mantra Rubio says affected agencies wasteful, ineffective, harmful Outrage trails Trump’s decision

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja In its drive towards realising the ‘America First’ tenet, the Donald Trump administration has announced that it is withdrawing the United States from the membership of 66 international organisations. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the list included 31 United Nations (UN) organisations and several agencies committed to countering the

global impacts of climate change and international peacebuilding, including the Commission for Environmental Cooperation, the Global Counterterrorism Forum and the International Energy Forum. Rubio said in a press release that the administration “has found these institutions to be redundant in their scope, mismanaged, unnecessary, wasteful, poorly run, captured by the interests of actors advancing their own

agendas contrary to our own, or a threat to our nation’s sovereignty, freedoms, and general prosperity.” The withdrawals are a result of an executive order issued by Trump less than a month into his second term, which charged Rubio with conducting reviews of all international intergovernmental organisations of which the United States is a member and providing any type of funding or other support. Some other organisations exited

by the Trump administration include: 24/7 Carbon-Free Energy Compact;Global Forum on Cyber Expertise; Global Forum on Migration and Development; Intergovernmental Forum on Mining, Minerals, Metals, and Sustainable Development as well as the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. They also include: The International Federation of Arts Councils and Culture Agencies; International Institute

FMC Abuja Doctors Announce Plan to Join Strike Over Unmet Demands Segun Awofadeji in Gombe

The Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abuja, has announced its support for the nationwide strike action called by the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), scheduled to begin on Monday, January 12, 2026. In a statement issued by Dr. Awuzie Chinemezu Donald, President; Dr. Okedinachi Enweani, Secretary and Dr. Maryam Ahmed Almustapha, PRO, made available to our correspondent on Thursday, the executive committee of the association expressed frustration over the “Federal Government’s failure

to honour agreements reached with NARD”, citing persistent breaches of agreements, worsening welfare conditions and systemic neglect “that have affected morale and healthcare delivery”. It added the strike tagged TICS (Total Indefinite Comprehensive Strike) 2.0, is driven by nine key demands, including the reinstatement of five doctors dismissed from the Federal Teaching Hospital Lokoja, implementation of outstanding promotion and payment of salary arrears, implementation of professional allowance with all accrued arrears captured in the 2026 national budget. Others are: clarification by the

Federal Ministry of Health and the Office of the Head of Service on skipping and entry-level issues, reintroduction of the specialist allowances, resolving the house officers’ salary delays etc. “The healthcare system cannot function optimally when its workforce is consistently disrespected, overworked and subjected to broken agreements,” the committee stated. The FMC doctors emphasised the association’s commitment to professional dignity and fair labour practices, urging the government to address the outstanding issues. “This action has become inevitable due to the continued

failure of the federal government to honour the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) previously signed with NARD, despite repeated engagements, assurances and ample time provided for implementation. “Resident doctors remain critical to the survival of Nigeria’s tertiary healthcare system. Unfortunately, persistent breaches of agreements, worsening welfare conditions and systemic neglect have continued to erode morale, compromise training and threaten the sustainability of quality healthcare delivery.

for Democracy and Electoral Assistance; International Institute for Justice and the Rule of Law; International Renewable Energy Agency and International Solar Alliance. Some UN organisations from which the US withdrew funding and participation are: UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) — Economic Commission for Africa;International Trade Centre; Office of the Special Adviser on Africa; Peacebuilding Commission; Permanent Forum on People of African Descent; UN Democracy Fund; UN Energy; UN University, among others. According to him, the State Department is continuing to review additional agencies going forward. “President Trump is clear: It is no longer acceptable to be sending these institutions the blood, sweat, and treasure of the American people, with little to nothing to show for it. The days of billions of dollars in taxpayer money flowing to foreign interests at the expense of our people are over. “As this list begins to demonstrate, what started as a pragmatic framework of international organisations for peace and cooperation has

morphed into a sprawling architecture of global governance, often dominated by progressive ideology and detached from national interests. “We will not continue expending resources, diplomatic capital, and the legitimising weight of our participation in institutions that are irrelevant to or in conflict with our interests. We reject inertia and ideology in favour of prudence and purpose. We seek cooperation where it serves our people and will stand firm where it does not,” Rubio pointed out. But the decision to withdraw from these organisations has drawn responses from some within the international peacebuilding community. The UN’s Climate Chief and Executive Secretary of the UNFCCC, Simon Stiell, described the move as a “colossal own goal”. He said: “While all other nations are stepping forward together, this latest step back from global leadership, climate cooperation and science can only harm the US economy, jobs and living standards, as wildfires, floods, mega-storms and droughts get rapidly worse. It is a colossal own goal which will leave the US less secure and less prosperous.”

2027: Tinubu Making Big Mistake, Nigerian People are Environment Minister Calls for Inter-Agency Main Opposition, Atiku’s Son, Shehu Abubakar Warns

vast majority of Nigerians who he queried. Okocha in Abuja look forward to ousting him President Tinubu has faced Collaboration to Address Environmental Challenges Chuks accusation of being responsible Shehu Atiku Abubakar, son of in 2027. Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, has urged enhanced inter-agency collaboration to tackle environmental challenges across Nigeria. The call was made during a meeting with the Director-General of the National Hydro-Electric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (NHYPPADEC), Abubakar Sadiq, and his team at the Ministry’s Abuja office. Highlighting potential areas of

cooperation, Lawal emphasized the importance of climate-resilient water supply and sanitation (WASH) programs aimed at ensuring year-round access to safe, reliable, and clean water in communities affected by dam operations. He noted that such collaboration would not only improve access to safe drinking water but also reduce the prevalence of waterborne diseases in these areas. On energy initiatives, the minister discussed the distribution of clean cooking stoves

to households in hydro-basin communities, stressing that this would significantly reduce household energy poverty, deforestation, and emissions through the adoption of energy-efficient cooking technologies. Other proposed collaboration areas between the Ministry and N-HYPPADEC include erosion and flood management, ecosystem restoration, climate-resilient afforestation programs, youth and community engagement, job creation, and public awareness campaigns.

former Vice President Atiku Abubakar claims that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is making a grievous mistake that will ruin his 2027 reelection ambition. Shehu Atiku Abubakar made the claim through his X (Twitter) handle on 4th of January, 2026. According to him, President Bola Ahmed who believes his sustained efforts at weakening opposition political parties as a means of eliminating stumbling block on the path of his reelection, is oblivious of the fact that he does not resonate with the

He added the president might think he is succeeding in his anti-democratic plots but his efforts will end in futility because unhappy Nigerians who are the real opposition, will resist and reject him in 2027 “The mistake President Tinubu is making is that he thinks he is destroying the opposition. Yes, he has succeeded in destroying major parties, but he has missed the point completely. The main opposition is the Nigerian people themselves. How can you destroy that?”

for instigating leadership crisis in the major opposition parties in Nigeria. Opposition parties’ leaders have also openly accused the Nigeria’s president of trying to make Nigeria a one-party state by pressuring political leaders in other political parties, specifically state-governors to join his party, the All Progressive Congress (APC). This development has resulted in multiple defections of opposition state-governors to the president’s APC.

Friday, JANUARY 9, 2026 • T H I S D AY

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RIVERS STATE GOVERNMENT

PORT HARCOURT WATER CORPORATION SPECIFIC PROCUREMENT NOTICE (SPN) Invitation for Bids [IFB] Goods (One-Envelope Bidding Process

IFB Number:

PHWSSP/AFDB/G/NCB/2025/009

Employer:

Port Harcourt Water Corporation, Port Harcourt, Rivers State

Project:

Urban Water Sector Reform and Port-Harcourt Water Supply and Sanitation Project

Contract title:

PROCUREMENT OF BULK CHEMICALS FOR THE PORT HARCOURT WATER CORPORATION

Country:

NIGERIA

Loan No. / Grant No.:

2000130011585

Procurement Method:

Open Competitive Bidding (National) (OCBN)

LCBN No:

PHWSSP/AFDB/G/NCB/2025/009

Issued on:

Friday January 9 2026

Bidding will not be permitted. Late Bids will be rejected. Bids will be publicly opened in the presence of the Bidders' designated representatives and anyone who chooses to attend at the address below on Friday February 6, 2026, at 11: 00 A M. 7.

All Bids must be accompanied by Bid Security of:

2. The Port Harcourt Water Corporation now invites sealed bids from eligible bidders for the execution of the Procurement of Bulk Chemicals for the Port Harcourt Water Corporation 3. Bidding will be conducted through the Open Competitive Bidding (National) (OCBN) procedures as specified in the Bank's Procurement Framework [African Development Bank, Standard Bidding Document Goods (Two-Envelope Bidding Process) August 2021] and is open to all Bidders as defined in the Procurement Framework. 4. Interested eligible Bidders may obtain further information from Chief Ibibia O; Walter with email address: watsanworks.phwssp@gmail.com and inspect the Bidding document during office hours (8:00 A.M. - 4 P.M.) on weekdays only at the address given below.

8. Attention is drawn to the Procurement Framework requiring the Borrower to disclose information on the successful bidder's beneficial ownership, as part of the Contract Award Notice, using the Beneficial Ownership Disclosure Form as included in the bidding document. 9.

The address referred to above is: The Managing Director Attention: Chief Ibibia O' Walter JP Port-Harcourt Water Corporation, 6 Water Works Road, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.

5. The Bidding document in English may be purchased by all eligible Bidders upon payment of a nonrefundable fee of NGN600,000.00 or an equivalent of US$400.00. The method of payment will be in Cheque or Bank Draft, made out in favor of PORT-HARCOURT WATER CORPORATION. The document will be sent by courier on demand. E-mail: watsanworks.phwssp@gmail.com 6.

Bids must be delivered to the address below on or before Friday February 6, 2026 at 10:30 AM. Electronic

Friday, JANUARY 9, 2026 • T H I S D AY

Forever in our

Hearts

LATE MRS.

NIMI OBATA GRANT-OFFOR (Nee Lawson) (47 Years)

THURSDAY 15TH JANUARY, 2026

5:00pm - SERVICE OF SONG @ Plot 4 Clover Lane, Pearl Garden Estate, Port Harcourt SATURDAY 17TH JANUARY, 2026

8:00am 10:00am 11:00am 12Noon

- Brief Stop-over at Lawson Jack’s Compound in Abonnema. - Lying in State at her husband’s Compound, Omuikume, Omagwa - Funeral Service at St. Martins Anglican Church, Omagwa, Ikwerre L.G.A, Rivers State. - Interment

SUNDAY 18TH JANUARY, 2026

9:00am

- THANKSGIVING SERVICE @ ST. Martins Anglican Church, Omagwa, Ikwerre L.G.A, Rivers State

May her gentle soul rest in peace Amen.

Signed:

Engr. Grant Offor For the family

firday, JANUARY 9, 2026 • T H I S D AY

RIVERS STATE GOVERNMENT

PORT HARCOURT WATER CORPORATION SPECIFIC PROCUREMENT NOTICE (SPN) Invitation for Bids [IFB] Goods (One-Envelope Bidding Process

IFB Number:

PHWSSP/AFDB/G/NCB/2025/002

Employer:

Port Harcourt Water Corporation, Port Harcourt, Rivers State

Project:

Urban Water Sector Reform and Port-Harcourt Water Supply and Sanitation Project

Contract title:

PROCUREMENT OF LABORATORY EQUIPMENT, REAGENT, APPARATUS AND OTHER ACCESSORIES FOR THE RUNNING OF THE PORT FOR THE PORT HARCOURT WATER CORPORATION

Country: Loan No. / Grant No.: Procurement Method: LCBN No: Issued on:

NIGERIA 2000130011585 Open Competitive Bidding (National) (OCBN) PHWSSP/AFDB/G/NCB/2025/002 January 9,, 2026

1. The Federal Republic of Nigeria has received Financing from the African Development Bank towards the cost of Urban Water Sector Reform and Port Harcourt Water Supply and Sanitation Project. It is intended that part of the proceeds of this loan will be applied to eligible payments under the contract for the Procurement of Laboratory Equipment, Reagent, Apparatus and Other Accessories for The Running of the Port for the Port Harcourt Water Corporation 2. The Port Harcourt Water Corporation now invites sealed bids from eligible bidders for the execution of the Procurement of Laboratory Equipment, Reagent, Apparatus and Other Accessories for The Running of the Port for the Port Harcourt Water Corporation 3. Bidding will be conducted through the Open Competitive Bidding (National) (OCBN) procedures as specified in the Bank's Procurement Framework [African Development Bank, Standard Bidding Document Goods (Two-Envelope Bidding Process) August 2021] and is open to all Bidders as defined in the Procurement Framework. 4. Interested eligible Bidders may obtain further information from Chief Ibibia O; Walter with email address: watsanworks.phwssp@gmail.com and inspect the Bidding document during office hours (8:00 A.M. - 4 P.M.) on weekdays only at the address given below.

6. Bids must be delivered to the address below on or before Monday February 9, 2026 at 10:30 AM. Electronic Bidding will not be permitted. Late rejected. Bids will be publicly opened in the presence of the Bidders' designated representatives and anyone who chooses to attend at the address below on Monday February 9, 2026 at 11: 00 A M. 7. All Bids must be accompanied by Bid Security of:

The address referred to above is: The Managing Director Attention: Chief Ibibia O' Walter JP Port-Harcourt Water Corporation, 6 Water Works Road, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.

T H I S D AY • FRIday JaNUaRy 9, 2026

Politics

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

The Highs and Lows of 10th House in 2025

In 2025, the House of Representatives made efforts to shape the polity and policies of government through motions, Bills and resolutions. While it made some headway, it also performed below expectations in some areas. Adedayo Akinwale reports.

ear 2025 was quite challenging and also eventful for the House of Representatives. Aside the defection of about 60 opposition lawmakers to the ruling party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), which undoubtedly left the opposition parties in tatters ahead of the 2027 elections; there were several resolutions on insecurity, passing or landmark bills and even rejection of other bills that looked suspicious. After several resolutions passed by the Green Chamber to arrest the alarming rates of insecurity in the country, the House also organised security summits. While it made its voice heard, not much difference has been made in the sector so far. The problem of insecurity remains intractable. One of the major Bills passed in the outgone year was the controversial Tax Reform Bills — which has now become an Act. The tumultuous journey of the Bill submitted by President Bola Tinubu was a subject of national discussion. Nevertheless, diplomacy, horse trading, engagements and compromise ensured that the Bill became an Act — which has already taken effect since January 2, 2026. To the credit of the Green Chamber, it was able to pass the Bill before the Senate could even make headway. Eventually, the House passed the four tax reform bills. The Nigeria Tax Act, 2025; the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, 2025; the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Act, 2025; and the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act, 2025. On Constitution review, the Green Chamber already commenced voting on some of the constitution alteration Bills. Deputy Speaker, Hon. Ben Kalu, while speaking at a joint retreat of the House and Senate Committees on Constitutional Review said the Constitution they seek to refine the soul of the country, the expression of common destiny, the framework upon which the hopes and dreams of every Nigerian rest. “Let the work we do here in Abuja reflect our shared commitment to a Nigeria that works for all. Let this retreat produce a clear, achievable roadmap; one that strengthens local governance, enhances gender balance, ensures credible elections, and secures our federation against future instability. “After today, we move from deliberation to decision. We move from consultation to legislative action. We move from debate to delivery. History is watching us. The entire nation with over 200 million Nigerians, anticipates a direction from this Assembly. “Our people yearn for reforms that: Devolve power and bring governance closer to the grassroots; localise internal security through innovative approaches, like state police; empower their voices through credible elections; ensure fiscal federalism and equitable resource distribution; protect the rights and dignity of every citizen, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or religion; guarantee local government autonomy so that development reaches the last community,” he had said. Similarly, in the course of the year, the Green Chamber introduced the Indigeneship Bill. According to Kalu who sponsored the Bill, the intention of the bill was to promote national unity, equity, and inclusiveness among all Nigerians, regardless of where they reside. But he finally succumbed to pressure when he was forced to withdraw the unpopular Bill. The Deputy Speaker noted that the withdrawal has become necessary in the light of the concerns and constructive feedback received from various stakeholders regarding the bill. He added that the Bill Analysis Report, forwarded by the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) also made it imperative for him to step down the bill at this time. Kalu pointed out that part of the report stated that the State Houses of Assembly should make laws that will make settlers in different

prove sources of suspicious assets, as ways of strengthening the fight against corruption in the country.

states enjoy the same rights and privileges by the indigenes. The House also introduced a Bill seeking to bar public officials and their families from using private health care facilities and sending their children to private school. The sponsor of the bill, which is awaiting second reading, Amobi Ogah, told journalists that the proposed legislation titled “Private

Institutions and Health Care Service Providers (Prohibition) Bill,”, is aimed at improving the standard and integrity of public health and education facilities in the country. The Green chamber also considered bills to strip the President of the power to appoint the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC); enhance whistleblowers protection and compel citizens to

Weak oversight The discharge of oversight responsibility by House Committees have continued on a downward trend. Members of the committees are more concerned about what they can get from the agencies of government rather than whipping them into line. Analysts were of the view that probes instituted by various committees of the House have yielded no results. It has become an avenue to force erring agencies into the negotiation tables where the lawmakers interest would be taken care of. On a few occasions where the parliament tried to stand its ground, some agencies have staged a walkout. For instance, on October 29, officials of the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board(JAMB) walked out on the House Committee on Basic Education Examination Bodies, at an investigative hearing convened by the panel to enable the examination body give a report on the agency’s 2023–2024 budget performance, Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) implementation, as well as provide evidence of remittances to the Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF). Nevertheless, JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, represented by Mufutau Bello, and other officials, objected to the presence of journalists at the session, describing it as a ploy to ridicule them. Members of the committee were still trying to reason with the examination body, when JAMB officials got up and left the hearing room, to the consternation of lawmakers. NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

Oyo After Makinde: Competence, Not Religion Should Guide People’s Choice Adekunle Adesuji writes that individual competence and not religious sentiment should be a determining factor in choosing who succeeds Governor Seyi Makinde in Oyo State come 2027.

s political conversations gradually shift towards the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State, familiar arguments have once again resurfaced. Chief among such issues of contention is the subtle, but persistent attempt to frame succession through the prism of religion. While such narratives may excite sectional sentiments, they collapse under the weight of history, electoral behaviour, and the enduring political culture of the state. Across Ibadan, Oke-Ogun, Ogbomosho, Oyo, and Ibarapa zones, the evidence remains consistent: political power in Oyo has never been negotiated based on faith or ethnicity alone. Rather, it has been earned through competence, integrity, organisation, structure, and sustained public trust built over time. This has been the trend since the birth of the Fourth Republic in May, 1999. Since the return of democratic governance in 1999, Oyo politics has followed a clear and predictable pattern. The pattern has always been competence over idiosyncrasy, performance over piety, governance over symbolism. The electorate, widely regarded as one of the most politically sophisticated in the South-West, has repeatedly demonstrated the ability to separate personal belief from public leadership. The ongoing debate to reduce the 2027 governorship contest to a religious calculation, therefore, oversimplifies deeply complex political realities that characterise Oyo State. It has never worked under previous political

dispensations. In the foreseeable future, obviously, it is not going to work because the people will always separate religion from politics or any form of sentiment from governance. History offers clarity in this direction. Between 1999 and 2003, late Alhaji Lam Adesina of the Alliance for Democracy (AD), a muslim, governed the state for four years. His administration was noted for grassroots mobilisation and education reforms, yet he lost re-election due to shifting political alliances and voter dissatisfaction—not religious considerations. In 2003, Senator Rashidi Ladoja of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), also a muslim and

now the Olubadan of Ibadanland, emerged as governor and served between 2003 and 2007. His tenure was defined by intense intra-party crises and legislative battles, reinforcing the reality that political survival in Oyo State depends more on structure and stability than on faith or religion. Again, in 2007, the pendulum swung when Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala of the PDP, a christian, assumed office. Despite his populist appeal and security-oriented background, Alao-Akala served only one term, exiting office in 2011, perhaps because he was a product of political crisis. His exit also reminded us that religious identity neither guarantees longevity nor shields a governor from electoral judgment. From 2011 to 2019, late Senator Abiola Ajimobi of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), later the All Progressives Congress (APC), a muslim, governed the state for eight uninterrupted years. His tenure, the longest in Oyo’s democratic history, was secured through strategic alliances with pro-people political actors, urban renewal, expansive infrastructure development, and firm political consolidation. Ajimobi was able to secure re-election not because of religious sentiment, but due to his sterling performance in office. -Adesuji writes from Ibadan. NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

FRIday, JANUARY 9, 2026 • T H I S D AY

business/MOnEYGUIDE

PwC Projects Real GDP Growth of 4.3% for Nigeria in 2026 Kayode Tokede

PwC Nigeria has released its Economic Outlook, projecting a real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of 4.3 per cent for Nigeria in 2026. PwC said its GDP growth forecast is predicated on inflation moderating gradually and the naira remaining broadly stable. According to PwC, the fiscal constraints persist, reinforcing the importance of capital efficiency and balance-sheet discipline. The report examined how recent gains in macroeconomic stability are reshaping the operating environment for businesses, investors, and markets as Nigeria moves into 2026. The Economic Outlook 2026 identifies seven key

issues shaping Nigeria’s economic performance in the year ahead, spanning global and domestic forces. These include; monetary policy effectiveness, fiscal sustainability and reform execution, global economic and geopolitical dynamics, domestic security and social pressures, uneven sectoral growth, consumer affordability constraints, and the expanding role of the digital economy and artificial intelligence. Commenting on the report, Country Senior Partner, PwC Nigeria, Sam Abu said, “PwC Nigeria’s Economic Outlook 2026 provides forwardlooking analysis of key macroeconomic indicators and what they signal for the economy and for business leaders. Nigeria has achieved improved macroeconomic stability over the past year. “The focus now is how

that stability is translated into sustainable economic growth, and how businesses position for 2026. For companies, this stability provides a more predictable operating environment for planning, investment, and growth decisions.” Speaking on the outlook, Partner and Chief Economist, PwC Nigeria, Olusegun Zaccheaus said “The seven themes in the Outlook show how global and domestic forces will shape economic performance in 2026. “Globally, growth is projected at around 3.1per cent, while merchandise trade growth slows to about 0.5per cent, keeping oil prices, capital flows, and access to foreign inflows as key channels influencing Nigeria’s growth and FX liquidity.”

HeirsTechnologies Gets NRS accreditation to Support e-Invoicing Compliance Heirs Technologies, a subsidiary of the Heirs Holdings Group, has secured accreditation from the Nigeria Revenue Service as a System Integrator for the Federal Government’s mandatory e-Invoicing regime, positioning the company as one of the authorised partners to help businesses comply with the Merchant Buyer Solution framework. The accreditation, published in the NRSapproved service providers directory, empowers the technology firm to link corporate invoicing platforms with the national e-Invoicing infrastructure. This integration enables invoice validation, secure data exchange and automated regulatory

reporting — all key components of government efforts to standardise tax administration. The Federal Government’s e-Invoicing mandate is one of the flagship reforms aimed at reducing tax leakages, improving transparency and strengthening revenue assurance across key sectors of the economy. With implementation accelerating, more businesses are now required to align their invoicing and reporting structures with the NRS model. Speaking on the development, the Chief Technology and Innovation Officer at Heirs Technologies, George Njuguna, said e-Invoicing should not be viewed

merely as an IT upgrade but as a cross-functional compliance requirement. “E-Invoicing is fundamentally a compliance requirement that cuts across finance, tax, operations and technology. Successful implementation requires both strong system integration capability and a clear understanding of regulatory and tax obligations,” he said. Njuguna explained that the company is combining its digital transformation and systems integration expertise with collaboration from tax professionals to ensure that client solutions meet both the technical and regulatory expectations of the framework.

WealthBridge Initiative Inveils N700m University Scholarship Kayode Tokede Bridge Charity Foundation, an initiative of WealthBridge Financial Services Holdings Limited, has announced the launch of the Bridge Foundation University Scholarship Programme, a N700 million education support initiative designed to empower Nigerian university students and strengthen access to quality tertiary education across the country. The scholarship programme underscores the Foundation’s commitment to education, social mobility, and long-term nation-building, with a focus on supporting academically outstanding students who demonstrate leadership potential, strong character, and financial need. Under the programme, six successful applicants from 11 universities all over the

six geopolitical zones of Nigeria will benefit from tuition payment, annual financial stipends, structured mentorship, and internship opportunities, providing both financial relief and practical exposure to prepare them for leadership roles in the future. Speaking on the launch,Group Chief Executive Officer of WealthBridge Financial Services Holdings Limited, Ahmed Adekunle Lawal said the initiative reflects the Group’s belief in education as a catalyst for sustainable development. “At WealthBridge, we believe that access to quality education is one of the most powerful tools for shaping the future of individuals, communities, and the nation at large. The Bridge Educational Scholarship Programme is our deliberate investment in Nigeria’s next generation of leaders—young people with the potential to drive

innovation, economic growth, and positive societal change,” Lawal said. He added that the programme goes beyond financial support, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and exposure in building well-rounded graduates. The Bridge Charity Foundation stated that the scholarship selection process will be rigorous, transparent, and merit-driven, overseen by an independent committee comprising respected professionals from academia, finance, etc. The Foundation emphasized that the calibre and diversity of the selection committee reinforces its commitment to fairness, credibility, and excellence in administering the programme. The Bridge Foundation University Scholarship is currently open to eligible Nigerian university students nationwide.

L-R: Sales Partner, Addme, Jesutunwase Sesan; Sales Partner, Opeyemi Elias; Branch Head, Lagos 2, Utkarsh Nayan; General Manager, Sukhman Kaur; Territory Sales Manager, Tinuola Adebayo, and Area Marketing Manager, Lagos 2, Victor Osondu at the Addme 2026 A Stress Free Start Activation at Ikotun Market in Lagos State

MARKET INDICATORS MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS (MILLION NAIRA) October 2025

Month

Money Supply (M3)

119,037,577.07

-- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors

9,291.49

Money Supply (M2)

119,028,285.58

Quasi Money

79,681,419.97

-- Narrow Money (M1)

39,346,865.60

---- Currency Outside Banks

4,646,794.28

---- Demand Deposits

34,700,071.33

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

34,804,442.84

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

84,233,134.23

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

99,199,655.08

---- Credit to Government (Net)

24,787,980.96

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

0.00

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

0.00

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

74,411,674.12

--Other Assets Net

2,603,854.03

Reserve Money (Base Money)

36,641,142.21

--Currency in Circulation

5,057,881.01

--Banks Reserves

31,583,261.21

--Special Intervention Reserves

284,361.95 • Source - CBN

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) Month

October 2025

Inter-Bank Call Rate

October 2025

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

27.00

Treasury Bill Rate

15.07

Savings Deposit Rate

7.43

1 Month Deposit Rate

11.37

3 Months Deposit Rate

11.32

6 Months Deposit Rate

11.12

12 Months Deposit Rate

11.78

Prime Lending rate

18.89

Maximum Lending Rate

29.56

NSE MARKET INDEX CAP

0.75%(52%YoY)

Index

0.9% (29%Y/D) • Monetary Policy Rate - 27%

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE As At 24TH NOVEMBER , 2025

The price of OPEC basket of twelve crudes stood at $63.14 a barrel on Monday, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

FRIday, JANUARY 9, 2026 • T H I S D AY

mARKET NEWS

Champion Breweries Opens N42bn Public Offer After SEC, NGX Approval

Kayode Tokede

Champion Breweries Plc has announced the official opening of its N42 billion Public Offer of ordinary shares at N16.00 per share, following approvals from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX). The public offer gives

institutional and retail investors an opportunity to participate in Champion’s next phase of growth as it prepares to acquire the Bullet brand portfolio and expand its footprint across Africa. The public offer follows the N15.9 billion rights issue to existing shareholders, representing the first phase of the Company’s two-step capital-raising programme. The company offers

P R I C E S MaiN Board

F O R DEALS

structure at 2,625,000,000 ordinary shares of 50 kobo each with an offer price of N16.00 per share, payable in full on application. The application opens on January 8, 2026 and closes January 21, 2026. The management of Champion Breweries revealed that the net proceeds from the public offer, together with those of the rights issue, will be used to fund the acquisition

S E C U R I T I E S Market Price

quantity traded

of the Bullet brand portfolio through an asset carve out that transfers ownership of Bullet’s brands, trademarks, recipes and commercial rights across its African markets to Champion. Also, the proceeds will be used to support the company’s working capital requirements and growth initiatives in areas such as route to market, marketing, innovation and capacity expansion.

T R A D E D

value traded ( N )

MaiN Board

A S

O F

Bullet is Nigeria’s leading ready to drink alcoholic beverage and one of the top energy drink brands in its markets of presence. The brand is currently sold in 14 African countries and earns a significant portion of its revenues in foreign currency, providing Champion with a natural FX hedge and a platform for continued regional expansion. Champion has delivered

J A N UA RY DEALS

strong and improving results in recent years. Revenue increased from N12.7 billion in 2023 to N20.9 billion in 2024, while net income rose from N370 million to N817 million. In the first half of 2025, Champion reported N15.9 billion in revenue and N2.3 billion in net income, representing a record setting performance and underlining the robustness of its operating model.

/ 0 8 / 2 6 Market Price

quantity traded

value traded ( N)

T H I S D AY FRIDAY JANUARY 9, 2026 20 TR

UT H

& RE A S O

Friday January 9, 2026 Vol 27. No 11234

opinion@thisdaylive.com

www.thisdaylive.com

INEC AND THE POLITICAL PARTY CRISIS The electoral body is already compromised, contends IKE ABONYI

See page 21

DIAMOND PEARLS FOR A PUBLIC INTELLECTUAL

PAUL A. OBI celebrates Abiodun Adeniyi, a public intellectual, on his 60th birthday

See page 21

EDITORIAL

SOUTHWEST AND GROWING INSECURITY

See page 22

FCT minister needs a comprehensive review of his tactical situation if he is to survive, writes BOLAJI ADEBIYI

WIKE’S DESPERATE FIGHT AGAINST THE ODDS Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has been at his most truculent in recent days, aggressively targeting perceived political opponents from all directions. To be fair to him, he promised last year that his political activities would begin this January. He is honouring that promise. In recent weeks, he has confronted his significant opponents. His former political allies in the People's Democratic Party, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, were on the receiving end of his harsh criticism in the final days of last year. In an end-of-year television interview, he ridiculed the self-proclaimed US dollar millionaire as a political ignoramus who lacked the substance to hold the important office of President of Nigeria. Wike claimed Makinde was a liar who would have been nothing in politics without him. To give the FCT minister his due, he responded to the Oyo State governor in kind. The governor, in an earlier television interview, accused the minister of being an agent provocateur within the troubled PDP. Makinde alleged that Wike has been acting on a script he promised President Bola Tinubu to undermine the PDP for his own benefit ahead of the 2027 presidential contest. The minister said this was a lie driven by malice and desperation on the governor's part. The altercation between Wike and Makinde underscores the deep crisis within the main opposition PDP. At the centre of the crisis that has hampered the party is the FCT minister, who has remained inconsolable since losing the party’s presidential and vice-presidential tickets in 2022. Given his disruptive activities since then, it is tempting to give the Oyo State governor the benefit of the doubt. With both characters leading two dominant factions of the party, the crisis has placed ambitious members in a political dilemma as the nation prepares to resume electoral campaigns in the second quarter. If anyone doubts the serious implications of the crisis for the party's electoral future, the recent meeting with the Independent National Electoral Commission, led by Prof. Joash Amupitan, should have dispelled those doubts. During the meeting, the commission informed party leaders that they were on a legal tightrope. The party’s governorship aspirants in Ekiti and Osun States are already casualties of the crisis, as the PDP has been unable to produce valid candidates due to INEC’s refusal to recognise any of the warring factions. The silver

lining, however, is that disputants have submitted their grievances to the courts for resolution. Hopefully, as Tanimu Turaki, the mainstream national chairman, suggested, the judiciary will make a determination early enough for the party to organise itself for the 2027 general election. Nonetheless, Wike has been effectively positioned as the aggressor in the heated controversy. With 26 of the 36 state chairmen backing the Makinde-led faction, it is difficult to see how the FCT minister plans to navigate the minefield should his faction prevail in court. In such a scenario, how will he reconcile his declared support for President Bola Tinubu’s second-term bid with the PDP’s effort to unseat the APC government, which they regard as a disaster? Will he persuade the PDP to adopt President Tinubu? Where will that leave the PDP presidential hopefuls? And how will he handle the conflict of interest that will emerge from his support for the President’s re-election and the party’s interests in the gubernatorial races across the states? This conflict of interest is already unfolding in his Rivers State homestead. Overwhelmed by Wike’s bullying, Siminalayi Fubara, the governor, left the PDP for the ruling APC last year seeking refuge. It is notable that this move happened a day after the governor met with the President in Abuja, indicating presidential approval. Clearly dissatisfied with the move, Wike has launched a fierce anti-Fubara campaign across the state, facing resistance from the APC national leadership, which feels compelled to defend one of its members. Both Nentawe Yilwatda, the national chairman, and Ajibola Bashiru, the national secretary, have made it clear to Wike that he would not be permitted to interfere in the APC’s affairs from his PDP base. The dust from the altercation between the FCT minister and the APC national

leadership was still settling when the minister’s allies in the Rivers State House of Assembly moved against the governor on Thursday, initiating an impeachment process for his removal. Now, 17 of the 26 members who brought the motion for the notice of impeachment, citing various offences by the governor, recently defected to the APC. Despite the substance of the assemblymen’s allegations, the question remains whether President Tinubu and the APC national leadership will permit a bipartisan removal of one of their own from office? The feelings from the APC national leadership and its Governors’ Forum are that this impeachment move, masterminded by Wike, is likely to be resisted by the party’s establishment, which may pressure the president to intervene in favour of the embattled governor. Will the president, who will rely on these two powerful pressure groups to secure his second-term ticket bid, be able to withstand their pressure? It is unlikely. So, where does this leave Wike if President Tinubu caves in? It is a precarious situation for Wike, whose objectives seem difficult to attain. The first aim, which is to take control of the PDP machinery, is being vehemently opposed by the party’s mainstream, who hope the courts will thwart the FCT minister’s bid by ruling in favour of the numerous cases. The second goal, aimed at preventing Fubara from securing a second term, also seems doomed as the APC leadership has made it clear that he will not be allowed to interfere in the party’s affairs from his PDP base. This may have compelled Wike to go all-in, orchestrating a removal process that, if successful, will make Fubara ineligible to run on any party platform. Will he succeed? Not likely, but time will tell. Adebiyi, Fellow of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, writes from Abuja.

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FRIDAY JANUARY 9, 2026

The electoral body is already compromised, contends IKE ABONYI

INEC AND THE POLITICAL PARTY CRISIS

Regardless of who is in charge— whether it’s Prof. Mahmud Yakubu or Prof. Joash Amupitan SAN—the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been involved in the political turmoil within the opposition party. Their attempts to conceal their actions only serve to expose them further. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) are fully aware that they cannot win an election fairly and transparently. Consequently, they have effectively co-opted the electoral body and the judiciary to suppress opposition movements. Intelligence indicates that Tinubu is aware he did not legitimately win the 2023 election, and that Peter Obi of the Labour Party is a significant threat to his political standing. This sheds light on why measures are being taken to deprive Obi of a political platform. INEC’s refusal to recognize Nenadi Usman's leadership of the Labour Party has unveiled their ulterior motives. The commission's sudden reference to a Supreme Court judgment from April—seven months after the ruling—demonstrates their willingness to dance to the ruling party’s tunes. Their primary objective is to hinder Peter Obi. Just one week after Obi departed from the party, INEC seemed to have "remembered" the Supreme Court ruling. There is also credible intelligence that the Taminu Turaki-led Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is being held back at Tinubu and Nyesom Wike's behest, and that they will soon be released, especially since Peter Obi is no longer available as a potential flag bearer. The agenda being pushed by INEC and the judiciary now appears to favor the ruling party, allowing both the PDP and LP to distance themselves from the implications as long as Obi is out of the picture. The leaders of the soon-tobe-released party may be compelled to endorse Tinubu or present an inconsequential candidate. The situation involving INEC and the Labour Party has become one of the most intricate legal and political dramas in recent Nigerian history. The timeline of INEC's jostling with recognition in Labour Party, especially in the light of Peter Obi’s departure, has sparked a significant debate about “double standards” and political timing. Here’s a concise overview of the facts as they stand in early 2026: Throughout late 2024, INEC asserted that Julius Abure’s term as National Chairman had expired in June 2024. However, the legal situation shifted: - **October 2024:** A Federal High Court in Abuja, headed by Justice Emeka Nwite, declared the March

2024 Nnewi Convention (which re-elected Abure) to be valid and constitutional. Following this court ruling, INEC formally engaged with the Abure-led leadership, essentially granting them "privileges" of recognized leadership under judicial compulsion. - However, after months of internal conflicts and attempts to reconcile the Abure faction with the Nenadi Usman-led caretaker committee, Peter Obi officially resigned from the Labour Party on December 31, 2025, and joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC). This timing raises questions about the narrative of INEC "dumping Abure" only after Obi's exit. Interestingly, the Abure-led faction claims to have experienced "liberation," even as INEC's position continues to be dictated by a series of conflicting court judgments rather than a clear administrative decision. Critics and political analysts have highlighted several factors that support claims of double standards: INEC initially refused to recognize the Nnewi Convention but later complied with a High Court ruling. This contrasts with their usual practice of awaiting Supreme Court decisions in other party leadership disputes, such as those involving the PDP or APC. Again INEC initially engaged with the caretaker committee headed by former Finance Minister Nenadi Usman (backed by Peter Obi and Governor Alex Otti) before reverting to Abure after the court order. This led to accusations that the commission is reacting to political power shifts rather than adhering strictly to legal rulings. Given all these factors, it is increasingly clear that INEC, under Prof. Joash Amupitan, is not prepared to ensure free, fair, and credible elections in 2027. Opposition politicians must come to terms with the unfortunate reality that manipulation of the electoral process for the 2027 elections has already begun and the main assignment of the two institutions is to stop Peter Obi at all costs. Abonyi, a Journalist, writes from Abuja

PAUL A. OBI celebrates Abiodun Adeniyi, a public intellectual, on his 60th birthday

DIAMOND PEARLS FOR A PUBLIC INTELLECTUAL

"(Public) intellectuals are people who manage the world in their head. They look at life and try to find some truth, if they cannot find it, they attempt to create it." - Yair Lapid, Jewish Centrist Politician and Israeli Opposition Leader of the Yesh Atid Party In an age of diffusion, hyperpartisanship, populism, disinformation, misinformation, half-truth and alternative facts (sic), the duty of public intellectuals have become more compelling than envisaged two decades ago. As social critics, public intellectuals set the template for how society is measured, navigated and approached at the same time. Similarly, the lenses public intellectuals create and the pathways upon which our world is (de)constructed is essential to the degree of how our cosmos becomes mundane evenly. Through the lenses of public intellectuals, society is remodelled and reset, specifically on the salient and most critical issues and essence of society and life itself. A misdiagnosis of public policy and issues either by pseudo-experts or public intellectuals themselves may lead us to unintended consequences in society. Through deliberations and crossfertilization of ideas, public intellectuals help us gauge our socio-cultural being, and in the long run help us trigger and initiate economic and political freedom in a sense. Their logical thoughtfulness over the centuries have remained a centrepiece and guidepost for our collective existence and commitment to humanity. Even in the midst of partisan divide, public intellectuals open a new vista of social (re)engineering within the public sphere, while also shaping public policy within governmental circles. In history, the Florentine Philosopher, Niccolo Machiavelli, comes to mind as the most visible and audacious public intellectual of the Renaissance Age. In his treatise, documented in his book The Prince, Machiavelli illustrates and illuminates what is known today as modern political thought, philosophy, including leadership, politics, administration and the compass upon which modern states are governed. Today, far from the medieval eras of Machiavelli, contemporary public intellectuals dominate our airwaves, television screens, newspapers’ columns and even our digital spaces. These layers, for the most parts, make (de)constructing or gauging a public intellectual a more daunting task. However, no gauge of a public intellectual is completely impeccable or perfect-proof. For Abiodun Adeniyi, a Professor of Communication and Registrar of Baze University, Abuja, who celebrated his 60th birthday recently, distilling public issues and raising national consciousness on issues of national importance is a rare privilege that ought to be handled with the supreme example of measured intellect and profound logic. In an age where deliberations and public discourse are often wrapped around divide and rule; us vs them, in-your-face political punditry,

and uncivil commentary fostered by quackery and lack of critical thinking and nuances, Prof Adeniyi’s public engagement as a social critic is distinct in various ramifications. Often, Adeniyi’s analytical compass on national television is mostly not induced by the zest for antagonism or to yield to partisan activism, or surrenders his thinking cap to the many palaces of sycophancy that now dominates our political domain and social sphere. As a public intellectual, Adeniyi is adept to the very calling of a public philosopher, whose fundamental duty and essence is to tilt society through debates, conversations, elucidation and utmost clarity to the realisation of truth and the ever evolving social dynamics. These realisations for over two decades have been expanded through various layers and channels of mainstream media and other agencies of communication. Within himself, Adeniyi strode several strands of expertise, craftsmanship and professionalism. He is firstly, a journalist, strategist and communication consultant, teacher, academic, scholar and an administrator. The combination of these experiences as a pool of expertise sets Adeniyi apart as a public intellectual with all the tools essential for social (re)construction of society. With them (experiences), Adeniyi is able to navigate the confines of technocracy and civil society in a sense that acquaint him with both the logic of professional knowhow and the whimsies of social activism. For all these threads, there is a historical path and trajectory that crystallize into one of Nigeria’s most visible public intellectual within the mainstream media and the broader public sphere. First, in the early 1990s, after his graduation from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, with a degree in Sociology, Adeniyi would kick-start his professional calling at Today Newspaper, a Kaduna based daily. He later joined The Guardian Newspaper, one of Nigeria’s flagships of journalism. After a stint with The Guardian, Adeniyi would later win the prestigious Chevening Scholarship to study International Communication at the University of Leeds. Obi is a lecturer, journalist and researcher based in Abuja

22 4

T H I S D AY

EDITORIAL

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

FRIDAY JANUARY 9, 2026

SOUTHWEST AND GROWING INSECURITY Security agencies must do more to stem the spread of terrorism

than 300 attacks on military formations, critical nationhe new year eve attack on Ipele in Owo al infrastructure, humanitarian facilities, and communiLocal Government Area of Ondo State, ties, resulting in the death of hundreds of people. which forced residents to flee to nearby Only recently, Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-pobushes, should be seen as another wakelitical group, warned of the implication of a growing up call, if any was needed. The gunmen atthreat to the South-West. “The sacking of communitacked the Divisional Police Headquarters ties in Kogi, Kwara, and other Middle Belt areas are in the town with gunfire and explosives. That it hapgrim reminders that terrorism is advancing toward the pened in the same Owo local government where there Southwest,” according to the Afenifere spokesman, was a deadly attack on St. Francis Catholic Church three Jare Ajayi. “These are not just criminal elements lookyears ago raises serious questions. And on Wednesday, ing for ransom...The type of weapons they use, the dersome cross-border bandits attacked the National Park ring-do manner with which they attack, and the intenoffice in Oloka village, Oriire Local Government Area sity of the damage they inflict show clear evidence of of Oyo State, killing five forest guards. serious backers.” We recall that a few months ago, the Department of Authorities in the country must work to prevent a State Services (DSS) raised the alarm of a plot by the further escalation of an insurgency Islamic State West Africa Province with religious coloration to the South (ISWAP) to attack some commuso as not to further expose the country Reports indicate that ISWAP, an extremist group nities in Ondo and Kogi States. to danger. Already said to be targetIn a letter reportedly addressed to prevalent in the north-east and the southern Lake Chad ed are Ondo State communities like the Commander of the 32 Artillery Eriti-Akoko, Oyin-Akoko in Akoko Basin, is bent on expanding its spheres of influence, and Brigade, Akure, the DSS warned North-West Local Government Area, of ‘imminent attacks’ while urging spreading terrorism across the country as well as Owo that had been attacked heightened surveillance and secuearlier. The Boko Haram splinter group rity deployment across vulnerable T H I S D AY allegedly has commenced surveillance on potential soft areas. EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU targets in some of these locations. Indeed, the terrorists In recent months, policemen, vigilantes, traditional DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE have reportedly infiltrated many communities in both MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO rulers and many others have been reported as victims DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU states, with their cells being fortified to repeat the same of ambushes by gunmen. For instance, on 10th SepCHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI vicious attacks of the recent past. Besides, bandits have tember 2025, five security operatives comprising three EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN been terrorising some local governments in the Kogi police officers and two vigilante members were killed THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE West senatorial district which share boundaries with at Egbe, Kogi West Area, close to Ondo. Less than Ondo State. two weeks later, four other policemen were killed at a But the ISWAP threat to march on the Southwest checkpoint in Abugi and Isanlu in Lokoja and Yagba and North central are raising serious concerns conEast local government. T H I S D AY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D sidering the implications, especially at a period when EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA Most reports indicate that ISWAP, an extremist group GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, some American politicians are pushing the false narprevalent in the north-east and the southern Lake Chad ISRAEL IWEGBU rative of ‘genocide against Christians’ in Nigeria. Last Basin, is bent on expanding its spheres of influence, and DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, February, amid reports of infiltration of some terrorists spreading terrorism across the country. According to ANTHONY OGEDENGBE fleeing into some forests in the region, the Southwest DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI the 2025 Global Terrorism Index, ISWAP “focuses on SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH Governors’ Forum pledged to establish a joint security targeting state and military assets while attempting to ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI surveillance to tackle the ISWAP threat. There is nothwin local support by providing limited services, such as CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI ing on ground to suggest any concrete efforts in that distributing food and protecting the local population.” DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO direction. TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com In the first half of 2025 alone, the jihadists led more

Letters to the Editor Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-300 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (750- 1000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive. com along with photograph, email address and phone numbers of the writer.

LETTERS INEC, POLITICIANS AND THE 2027 GENERAL ELECTION As Nigerians continue to bask in the euphoria of a new year, the political class appears to have shifted attention rapidly towards the 2027 General Election. Across the country, politicians and political parties have begun early strategising, consultations, and alignments, signalling that the race for power is already underway, barely midway into the current political cycle. This familiar pattern raises serious concerns. As has been observed repeatedly over the years, early politicking often comes at the expense of governance. Many elected officials find their attention divided between service delivery and political survival, a situation that has consistently weakened public institutions and slowed national development. The consequences are visible: stalled projects, poor policy execution, worsening insecurity, economic hardship, and decaying infrastructure.

This trend is unfortunate and must not continue. Nigeria is at a critical point where citizens are yearning not for political drama, but for tangible improvements in their lives. Good governance, improved security, economic growth, job creation, and infrastructural development should remain the primary focus of those entrusted with public office. Against this backdrop, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) carries a heavy responsibility. Under its new chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, the commission has repeatedly reassured Nigerians of its readiness to conduct free, fair, and credible elections that will be generally acceptable in 2027. While such assurances are necessary, they are not sufficient. Beyond promises, INEC must begin now to confront the persistent loopholes that undermined previous elec-

tions. Issues such as logistical failures, voter suppression, result manipulation, violence, and weak enforcement of electoral laws must be decisively addressed. The commission must also work closely with the National Assembly to ensure the timely passage of necessary amendments to the Electoral Act, strengthening the legal framework ahead of 2027. Technology remains one of INEC’s most effective tools. Greater and smarter use of technology can significantly reduce human interference and electoral malpractice. From voter accreditation to result transmission, systems must be improved, secured, and made more transparent to restore public confidence in the electoral process. Tochukwu Jimo Obi, Obosi, Anambra State

T H I S D AY • FRIday, January 9, 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

8 , 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. 8, 2026

3-MONTH

22.41%

MONTH-TO-DATE

0.24%

Report: Manufacturing Sector Posts Sharpest Rise in Input, Output Costs

Dike Onwuamaeze The manufacturing sector posted the sharpest rise in input and output costs in December 2025 among the sectors that were covered by the Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) report of the Stanbic IBTC Bank Nigeria while the services recorded the slowest pace of inflation. The sectors covered by the survey include agriculture, mining, manufacturing, construction, wholesale, retail and services. The report attributed the

rise in input and output prices to hikes in prices for raw materials, which led to a further rise in purchase costs in December. The report also said that manufacturing was the only sector that failed to experience rise in employment in December 2025. Commenting on the PMI report, the Head of Equity Research West Africa at Stanbic IBTC Bank, Mr. Muyiwa Oni, said; “While overall input prices increased sharply in

December from the near five-year low posted in November, the rate of inflation was weaker than the 2025 average. Because of this high input cost, selling prices also increased in December with the most significant price increase seen in the manufacturing sector.” The report added, “the pass through of higher raw material costs to customers resulted in a marked monthly rise in selling prices during December,” with the manufacturing

posting the sharpest rise in price. “The rate of inflation was only slightly quicker than the five-and-a-half year low posted in November. However, the sharpest increase in charges was in the manufacturing sector, while the slowest was in wholesale and retail.” It said: “Nigerian companies increased their staffing levels for the seventh month running in December amid rising customer demand. That said, the pace of job

creation was only marginal and the slowest since last June. Employment rose in three of the four monitored sectors, the exception being manufacturing.” Overall, the PMI report stated that the Nigerian private sector remained in growth territory at the end of 2025 as improvements in customer demand fed through to higher new orders, output and purchasing activity. It stated: “The final month of 2025 saw a further marked expansion

that if the taxes and charges are passed to travellers they will not be able to afford it. Recently, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to warn African governments, stating that excessive taxes and charges on air travel are stifling the continent’s aviation growth and impeding its vital contribution to economic development. The association urged a re-evaluation of current fiscal policies, emphasising that the economic benefits

of aviation are catalytic, not a source of revenue to be overtaxed and added that aviation is not a luxury, but an economic and social lifeline. Air travel significantly benefits a nation’s economy by driving trade, tourism, job creation, and investment, acting as a catalyst for overall GDP growth through efficient transport of high-value goods, connecting global markets, fostering innovation, and supporting diverse

sectors like agriculture and manufacturing, ultimately boosting productivity and living standards. The CEO of ASKY Airlines, Esayas Woldemariam Hailu, said heavy taxation on Africa’s aviation sector is stifling economic growth, undermining job creation, and fuelling youth unrest across the continent, noting that when you buy a ticket in Africa, one-third of the cost goes to taxes and fees. Only two-thirds goes

to the airline to cover all operational expenses. In Nigeria, while the argument rages over high fares, travellers are not privy to the huge taxes and charges airlines and other airport users pay to aviation agencies. The details of the taxes and charged are contained in a document titled, “Aviation Taxes, Fees and Charges,” seen by THISDAY. It revealed about 54 taxes, fees and charges spread across four major

in business activity in Nigeria’s private sector, with the rate of growth little-changed from that registered in November. “Output has now risen in 13 consecutive months. Respondents linked growth to new orders from both new and existing customers, with some noting tailwinds from softer inflationary pressures. Activity increased across all four monitored sectors, led by agriculture.” The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

Experts: High Taxes Militating against Growth of African Airlines Chinedu Eze

Industry experts have posited that despite the immense contribution of the aviation sector in the development of African economies, Nigeria inclusive, air travel is still considered as luxury in Africa. According to them, the motive behind the high taxes imposed by African governments, explains why the cost of air ticket is high in African countries, adding

government agencies - the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), and the FIRS and built to the air tickets payable by travellers by the airlines. The charges according to the document are split into aeronautical and nonaeronautical revenues. 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, J a n u a r y 8 , 2 0 2 6 BONDS Description Price Yield Change Updated Time (%) ^16.2884 17January 99.42 16.78 0.00 8, 2026 MAR-2027 January ^19.94 20102.48 17.46 0.00 8, 2026 MAR-2027 ^13.98 23January 94.94 16.88 0.00 FEB-2028 8, 2026 ^21.00 20January 107.42 16.76 -0.01 MAR-2028 8, 2026 ^14.55 26January 104.22 17.51 0.00 8, APR-2029 2026

BILLS Maturity NTB 5-Feb26 NTB 5-Mar26 NTB 9-Apr26 NTB 7-May26 NTB 4-Jun26

Discount Yield

CPs

Change (%) Updated Time

Maturity

15.55

15.74

January 0.00 8, 2026

15.70

16.08

January -0.01 8, 2026

15.92

16.58

January -0.01 8, 2026

16.01

16.89

January -0.01 8, 2026

16.94

January 0.00 8, 2026

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

15.85

Discount Yield 19.21

19.31

19.83

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21.10

18.33

18.92

19.49

20.42

CLEARED NAIRA-SETTLED NDFS Change (%)

Updated Time

January 0.00 8, 2026 January 0.00 8, 2026 January 0.00 8, 2026 January 0.00 8, 2026 January 0.00 8, 2026

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

January 8, 2026 January 8, 2026 January 8, 2026 January 8, 2026 January 8, 2026

FRIday, January 9, 2026 • T H I S D AY

BUSINESSWORLD

Air watch

‘Nigeria’s Economic Growth Undermined by Persistent Poverty’ Stories by Chinedu Eze The President, Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Dele Kelvin Oye, has said that Nigeria’s economic growth is undermined by persistent poverty with 139 million Nigerians living below the poverty line. He made his assertion, based on the World Bank records of 2025. Oye, who made this known recently at the Annual Business Lecture/ Dinner, Lagos Country Club,

said the development would generate urgent questions about the effectiveness of current economic policies. He said that Nigeria’s economy is wracked by two types of inflation: the demand-pull inflation and the cost-push inflation. According to Oye, the demand-pull inflation is driven by excessive liquidity, largely due to the Nigerian public- sector deficit budgeting/spending and heavy borrowing, which leads to the phenomenon of “too much money, chasing too few goods.” On the other hand, the

cost-push inflation is caused by soaring production costs stemming from issues such as unstable exchange rates, unreliable power supply, poor infrastructure, unstable policies and excessive regulation by MDA, most of which instead of facilitating trade, have turned regulations into government revenue drive. Then there is involution/ deflation, which he described as additional concern, adding that “where unhealthy competition leads to price drops, reduced production, stagnant wages, and rising inequality.”

A i r Watch Events that Shaped Aviation Industry in 2025

SAHCO Reaffirms Commitment to Operational Excellence in 2026

Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) Plc has reaffirmed the company’s commitment to operational excellence, ethics in action, innovation, and sustainable growth as it reflects on a successful 2025 and outlines its strategic priorities for 2026 and beyond. In a New Year message issued on behalf of the Chairman, Board of Directors, and Executive Management, the company expressed appreciation to

its customers for their continued patronage and trust throughout 2025, noting that customer partnership remains central to SAHCO’s existence and long-term success. The management stated that the company would continue to listen closely to customers, deliver excellent service, and consistently exceed expectations in the years ahead. SAHCO also acknowledged the support

of stakeholders and partner governmental agencies, stating that their collaboration played a critical role in enabling the company to serve customers more effectively and achieve shared objectives. Commenting on internal achievements, the company praised the dedication and professionalism of its staff nationwide, attributing key operational milestones in 2025 to their teamwork and commitment.

NA H C O S i g n s H a n d l i n g Contracts with Major Airlines

Nigerian Aviation Handling

Company Plc (nahco Aviance), has announced the signing of a chain of contracts with major airlines for the provision of total handling solutions. In a statement, the company announced the signing of contract renewal with European giants, Air France, KLM and Virgin Atlantic. Renewal contract was also signed with African operator, Rwand Air. NAHCO also signed fresh contracts with United Nigeria – Regional, Bellagio and Malaikair.

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)

The contracts with Air France and KLM are for three years and will run till 2028 respectively. The duration of the contract with Virgin Atlantic is also three years. The Group Executive Director, Commercial and Business Development, NAHCO Plc, Prince Saheed Lasisi, who expressed his delight with the new contracts said NAHCO was ready to exceed customer’s expectations.

According to Lasisi, NAHCO’s more than 46 years of unblemished excellent service delivery stands it heads and shoulders above any other service provider in the industry. “This is what we have been doing for almost half of a century. We will continue to delight our customers and make our stakeholders happy by exceeding expectations in all aspects of our service offerings.”

Portugal Ambassador Hails Carnival Calabar The Ambassador of Portugal to Nigeria, Paulo Martins Santos, has praised the quality and cultural depth of the Carnival Calabar, describing his first experience of the festival as impressive and full of potential for greater international recognition. Speaking during his visit to Calabar, Santos said he was struck by the organisation and seriousness of the events, starting with the children’s festival, which he attended shortly after arriving in the state. Contrary to his expectations of a simple children-focused parade, the ambassador said the event reflected strong planning,

symbolism and cultural intent, setting the tone for what he was told would be a series of even bigger spectacles, including the bikers’ parade and the main carnival procession. Santos, who has lived in Nigeria for more than two years, said he experienced no cultural shock in Calabar, noting the long-standing historical ties between Portugal and Africa, including Nigeria. He explained that shared history and cultural exchanges over more than five centuries have created a familiarity that makes Portuguese visitors feel at home across the continent.

Chinedu Eze When the Tinubu administration took office in 2023, some radical decisions were taken which reverberated in the aviation industry. Some of the development include; foreign exchange market reforms, removal of fuel subsidy. The two actions of government gave rise to stability in the exchange rate and guaranteed the supply of aviation fuel, known as Jet A1. In 2024, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo had developed his five-point development agenda or key performance indicators which include; enhancing safety (International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) compliance, boosting infrastructure, including airport modernisation, support for local airlines, developing human capacity and optimising revenue generation. Also, the administration in 2024 solved the problem of trapped funds, signed the Practice Direction that enables lessors, with full support of the Nigerian courts, to take away its aircraft from Nigerian carriers in the case of non-compliance with lease agreements. As a result of this, the Aviation Working Group (AWG) removed the country from its watch list. In 2025, the industry witnessed availability of operating aircraft and increase in the number of commercial airlines. Although airfares were high but the airlines offered more seats which met the demand of air travellers. However, towards the end of the year, the fares were outrageously high. To guarantee continuous upgrade and development of major airports in the country, Tinubu’s administration is pushing for the concession of international airports in the country. It was a plan it inherited, which the previous administration made so much noise about but achieved nothing because of lack of sincerity and transparency in the process. Tinubu’s administration restarted the process for major airports like Lagos, Abuja, Kano, Port Harcourt, and Enugu with a focus on greater transparency, approving business cases for some like Port Harcourt and Enugu, and aiming to boost efficiency while ensuring worker protection and addressing safety. What is really interesting is that some state government have developed interest in aviation with strong commitment, an effort pioneered by Akwa Ibom. So, in 2025, Nigeria’s aviation sector saw growth in new airline operations, like Enugu Air, new Commitment by Cross River state,

which acquired two Bombardier CRJ 1000 jets for its Cally Air. The aircraft are operated by ValueJet, while Aero Contractors continues to operate the original two Boeing 737 also owned by the state government. Bayelsa State acquired two ATR 72-600 for is airline to be named Bayelsa Air and the aircraft are currently managed by Pioneer Airline. It started scheduled commercial service in 2025. Ebonyi State last year acquired three aircraft for its own planned carrier. The aircraft are expected to arrive this year. Ogun State, which kicked off schedule flight service in its new airport, also planned to start its own airline and has acquired two Bombardier CRJ jets for its planned airline, Gateway Air. The aircraft are currently being operated by ValueJet. On infrastructure, earlier last year, the Federal Executive Council approved N712 billion for the upgrade of the old international terminal of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, work had since started and the plan is to totally transform the facility, create exit structure for arriving passengers in the new terminal, known as Terminal 2, so that arriving passengers and departing passengers will not follow the same access to and out of the terminal. Nigeria significantly improved its standing with the Cape Town Convention (CTC) by boosting its compliance score to 75.5 per cent, moving from its previous rating, after implementing the Irrevocable Deregistration and Export Request Authorization (IDERA) procedure, leading to its removal from the Aviation Working Group (AWG) watch list and unlocking better aircraft leasing for airlines in 2024. This yielded positive result in 2025 when Air Peace received a commercial aircraft on dry lease from world’s biggest leasing company, Aer Cap, after over 10 years lessors blacklisted Nigerian carriers for not keeping with the terms of leasing agreement in the past. The dry lease was facilitated by federal government’s guarantee, indicating that it would be held responsible if Air Peace falters on the terms of contract. Over the years, Nigerian airlines have been leasing aircraft on wet lease arrangement which is three times costlier than dry leasing, short term with lessor’s crew operating and maintaining the aircraft; unlike dry lease, which is long term with the lessee, the airline, managing the aircraft in terms of maintenance and crew. The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

Friday, JANUARY 9, 2026 • T H I S D AY

firday, JANUARY 9, 2026 • T H I S D AY

T H I S D AY • FRIday, January 9, 2026

BUSINESSWORLD

INTERVIEW

LCCI Advocacy to Focus on Continental Competitiveness of Nigerian Companies

The newly elected President of Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Mr. Leye Kupoluyi, has dropped the hint that the chamber’s advocacy during his tenure would be targeted at continental competitiveness of Nigerian companies. Dike Onwuamaeze brings the excerpts:

Kupoluyi What will be the direction of LCCI’s advocacy under your leadership? hank you so much for this question. As you know advocacy is one of our major mandates as a chamber because of the different interests that we are representing. Under my leadership we will carry on advocacy as usual as evidence based engagement on how to strengthen Nigeria’s productive capacity and enhancing business generally. Our advocacy will be for competitiveness of Nigerian businesses beyond the borders of Nigeria. The chamber will focus on advocacy that will enable Nigerian companies to be very well competitive within Nigeria and in Africa because it is now a borderless economy.

Do you think that Nigerian companies have the muscle to push their competitiveness extend beyond the country? If we do not have the muscle then we have to develop it. But truly we have the muscle to push it. Nigeria is the hope of Africa. Arguably Nigeria is the largest economy in Africa. I do not want to go into the statistics of people saying which country has the largest economy because there is no country in Africa that is bigger than Nigeria. Therefore, if we cannot take the lead in Africa then there is no one to do it. There is no doubt that Nigeria is the arrow head of Africa. But the West African market is shrinking for Nigerian made goods due to the exit of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger Republic from ECOWAS? There are challenges in terms of organised legal exports to these countries even though most of the manufactured goods they require still come from Nigeria. But definitely there are challenges in terms of doing business the way we know it at this chamber, which is formal, legal and legitimate trade and not through smuggling. Informally, Nigerian goods are reaching these countries but there are challenges when it comes to formal trade. And we know that ECOWAS leaders are doing everything possible to bring these countries back into the fold. With the benefit of hindsight what do you see as the gains and losses of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s economic reforms? Thank you very much for this very important

question. President Tinubu right on his first day in office declared that petrol subsidy is gone and merged the multiple exchange rates. He did these because the fiscal choice before him at that moment was extremely limited. The economy was already on a life support system them and had he not taken those decisions may be that life support system might have been taken away from our noses. From the benefit of hindsight we now know that the President did not have many choices not to have taken those decisions. But what are the implications of those actions? The implication is that the reform has put more money into the hands of governments for them to provide the right infrastructure. The unified exchange rate has eliminated those that just take advantage of the system to become billionaires overnight. But the question now is what are the ordinary people gaining from these reforms? We need growth and that is where investing on infrastructure is important. The ordinary people want to see good roads, support for agricultural inputs; support for the power system so that manufacturing can have cheaper and stable supply of electricity. We want our industries to produce enough for local consumption and to export and earn foreign exchange. We need broadband. Lagos and other cities may be okay but what about the hinterlands? Nigerians should be able to stay at any place in the country and still have internet access. The people should not only be looking at the indices that show that the economy is moving forward. They ought to see these benefits on their dining table as well. What do you think will be the immediate impact of the implementation of the new tax laws from January 1, 2026? Thank you very much. For every reform like Nigeria’s tax reform there must be some shocks and benefits. But with the tax reforms we know that the benefits will be more than the shocks. It is a very good relief that the low income earners have been removed from the tax net. The multiple taxations that have been an epidemic in Nigeria’s business environment for many years will be taken care of. The tax reform must not be a burden to the people. It will unlock lots of revenues for the government because the tax net has been widened and strengthened. The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

firday, JANUARY 9, 2026 • T H I S D AY

CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF POWER ENGINEERS OF NIGERIA

(Established by the Act of the National Assembly No 50 of 2023) Eight Floor, Unity Bank Towers, Plot 785, Herbert Macaulay Way, Central Business District, 900211, Abuja, FCT., Nigeria. www.cipen.org.ng; Info@cipen.org.ng

His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Federal Republic of Nigeria State House Three Arms Zone, Asokoro Abuja.

AN OPEN LETTER TO MR. PRESIDENT

Your Excellency, APPOINTMENT OF MR. PETER UTSUASHIBEL, DIRECTOR CORPORATE SERVICES (A NON-ELECTRICAL ENGINEER PERSONNEL) AS THE ACTING MANAGING DIRECTOR/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF NIGERIAN ELECTRICITY MANAGEMENT SERVICES AGENCY (NEMSA) AND ACTING CHIEF ELECTRICAL INSPECTOR OF THE FEDERATION (CEIF) A Serious Infraction and Violation of the Provisions of the Electricity Act-2023 On behalf of the Governing Council and the entire membership of the Chartered Institute of Power Engineers of Nigeria (CIPEN), we convey our profound appreciation to Your Excellency for the visionary leadership and unwavering commitment your administration has demonstrated toward alleviating energy poverty and transforming Nigeria's power sector into a catalyst for inclusive economic growth. Chartered Institute of Power Engineers of Nigeria (CIPEN) is a statutory professional and regulatory body established by an Act of the National Assembly. CIPEN is mandated to regulate and uphold standards in power engineering education and practice across Nigeria. We respectfully wish to present our professional position regarding the appointment of Mr. Peter Utsuashibel Executive Director, Corporate Services a non-electrical engineer as the acting Managing Director of Nigerian Electricity Management Agency (NEMSA) and the acting Chief Electrical Inspector of the Federation (CEIF) contrary to the provisions and the requirements section 177(1-8) of the Electricity Act-2023 with special reference to subsections 1, 2 & 5 of section 177. Also, it is essential to note that the Act of the National Assembly, signed into Law by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, supersedes any issued administrative circular purportedly relied upon in the handing over of the technical Agency to administrative personnel. Kindly note that this has come to our notice through various news media: the appointment of a non-electrical engineer as the acting Chief Electrical Inspector of the Federation (CEIF), following the expiration of the tenure of the immediate past CEIF. Your Excellency may wish to note that NEMSA is statutorily mandated and empowered to carry out the enforcement of technical standards and regulations, technical inspections, testing and certification of all categories of electrical Installations, electricity meters and metering equipment in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI), and other allied industries in Nigeria. At the same time, the Agency is equally empowered to provide all technical electrical inspection services in Nigeria. As provided in Section 177(1-8) of the Electricity Act- 2023 (as amended), (1) There is appointed for NEMSA by the President on the recommendation of the Minister, a Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer. (2) The Chief Executive Officer shall be an electrical engineer, registered with the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) and have not less than 20 years of professional and practical experience in the core operational areas of the NEMSA or the NESI. (3) The Chief Executive Officer shall hold office for a term of four years and may be eligible for re-appointment for only one further term of four years. (4) The Chief Executive Officer shall be the head of management and chief accounting officer of the NEMSA. (5) The Chief Executive Officer shall be the Chief Electrical Inspector of the Federation, with powers to carry out the functions of enforcement of technical standards and regulations through technical inspection, testing, and certification of all categories of electrical equipment, materials, and installations, electrical meters, instruments, and other related matters in the NESI. (6) The Chief Executive Officer shall be responsible for the administration of the NEMSA, for keeping the books and records of the NEMSA, and shall be subject to the supervision and control of the Governing Board. (7) The Minister shall also appoint the Executive Directors, who shall hold the office for a

term of four years and may be eligible for re-appointment for only one further term of four years (8) The Executive Directors shall administer under the direction of the Managing Director the following Directorates: (a) Technical Services. (b) Commercial Services; and (c) Corporate Services Your Excellency, the following points are worthy of note: Ÿ The MD/CEO of NEMSA is also the Chief Electrical Inspector of the Federation (CEIF), a statutory office responsible for determining the technical inspection and approval of all power engineering projects and infrastructure in Nigeria. Ÿ The responsibilities are professional administration and authority. It is not open to every career, public/civil servant. Ÿ The most important aspect of the CEIF is that he/she is responsible for approving all Technical Reports, all certificates to be issued by the Agency for inspection and license to firms undertaking power engineering projects in Nigeria, and factory inspections, commissioning, etc. Ÿ He/she is the Chief Safety Officer for all power infrastructure in Nigeria. Ÿ The signature of the CEIF is not a mere administrative appellation but a professional endorsement by a technical competent authority to act in such capacity. It is not a delegated role. Ÿ Thus, to act on that position, the appointee must have met the basic professional competence required for such a role. Ÿ The aforementioned Certificates, Licences and Reports cannot be signed by a nonelectrical engineering professional. Ÿ A practising electrical engineering professional must occupy the Office of the CEIF with the requisite technical competence. Therefore, the situation at NEMSA at this moment where a non-electrical engineering professional is appointed as an Acting MD/CEO and CEIF is an aberration and infraction because the Officer is not a COREN register Electrical Engineer as demanded by the Act and so not eligible or competent to action/treat any Technical Document/Reports, Professional Electrical Practising Certificates and Licenses, etc or speak as a professional Electrical Engineer who by Law is expected to be the Chief Electrical Inspector of the Federation and the custodian of all electrical engineering infrastructure in Nigeria. The Office of the CEIF is akin to the following: Ø The Office of the Attorney General of the Federation Ø The Office of the Solicitor General of the Federation Ø The Office of the Accountant General of the Federation Ø The Office of the Auditor General of the Federation Ø The Office of the Surveyor General of the Federation Etc. For emphasis, none of the offices cited above can be administered by a non-professional in the relevant field, either in an acting or a substantive capacity. The office of the MD/CEO of NEMSA and the Chief Electrical Inspector of the Federation is of such a statutory status. Request and Recommendation With due respect, Your Excellency, we are asking for the immediate appointment of the most senior Electrical Engineer in NEMSA to take over the affairs of the Agency in acting capacity, pending the appointment of a substantive Managing Director / Chief Executive Officer of NEMSA and Chief Electrical Inspector of the Federation as per the Electricity Act-2023. This measure will ensure continuity and stability in NEMSA's mandate to enforce Technical Standards and Regulations and its numerous technical operations, while also demonstrating your administration's commitment to the Rule of Law on appointments. Finally, we respectfully urge Your Excellency to consider this our request and recommendation as above, ensuring NEMSA's leadership aligns with statutory requirements, complies with the Act, meets industry needs, and ultimately supports the sustainability of Nigeria's Power Supply Industry. Please accept the assurances of our highest consideration and professional commitment supporting your administration's reform efforts through technical excellence. Yours faithfully, For: Chartered Institute of Power Engineers of Nigeria

Engr. Israel E. Abraham, MBA, CPEng, FCIPE President & Chairman of CIPEN Governing Council

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T H I S D AY • FRIday, JANUARY 9, 2026

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

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A f r i c a Fa s h i o n We e k Nigeria Sparks Cultural Revolution on the Runway

T H I S D AY • FRIday, JANUARY 9, 2026

Cover

Africa Fashion Week Nigeria Sparks Cultural Revolution on the Runway

The curtains have closed on the 11th edition of Africa Fashion Week Nigeria (AFWN) 2025, and the fashion world is still buzzing with excitement. Held recently in Lagos, the event was a spectacular celebration of African fashion, culture, and innovation. With over 30 talented designers, influencers, and industry insiders in attendance, AFWN 2025 was a true showcase of the continent’s creative prowess. Writes MARY NNAH

Tide Chen Lagos

Robes and Blings by Aokomali

Ventunna

Rhaychelle Cuts

Tide Chen Lagos

EAA

Aso ebi by Nandar

Binta Badmus

Ndoko Shapes & More

Aso ebi by Nandari

Sisi Sewing

he vibrant city of Lagos was abuzz with style and creativity as Africa Fashion Week Nigeria (AFWN) 2025 took center stage at the J. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture & History on December 20-21. The 11th edition of this highly anticipated event was themed “The Naija December Experience,” and it truly delivered a spectacular celebration of African fashion, culture, and innovation. With over 30 talented designers from Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, and beyond, the runway was a kaleidoscope of colors, textures, and designs that showcased the continent’s rich cultural heritage. From the opulent luxury of CHARMS-XVI to the vibrant Afrodiscoqueens of RTW by Teetee, each collection was a masterclass in creativity and style. Other notable designers included Asoebi by Nandari, Rhaychaelle_Cut, Elegant by Rachy, and Glovika, among others.

markets, DJ sets, and sustainability talks, which added to the excitement and highlighted the importance of eco-friendly fashion practices. Africa Fashion Week Nigeria (AFWN) is a leading platform for African fashion that spotlights designers, supports talent development, and connects African creativity with global markets. AFWN blends runway, commerce, and culture to create commercially relevant opportunities for designers and a large cultural moment for Lagos and the continent. Queen Ronke AdemiluyiOgunwusi, the visionary behind Africa Fashion Week Nigeria, shared her insights on the platform’s significance and its impact on emerging designers. With 11 successful editions, AFWN has become a launching pad for creatives looking to make a mark in the fashion industry.

The Runway Comes Alive The 3 pm showcase on day one set the tone for an electrifying two-day event, with designers showcasing their unique interpretations of African fashion. The likes of Aby Toria Brand, Robes and Blings by Akokomali, and Adire Teems stole the show with their handcrafted unity pieces, while Prince and Helen Keshi of Klass Kay’s upcycled UK-Nigerian streetwear left the audience in awe. The Influencers Collective was dominated by Big Brother Naija’s Koyin Sanusi, whose commanding presence on the runway sparked trending conversations on social media. The event also featured pop-up

A Celebration of Creativity With creativity overflowing on every runway tonight, Queen Ogunwusi poses a rhetorical question: ‘Why not African Fashion Week Nigeria?’ She gestures towards the vibrant displays, her enthusiasm palpable. “We’ve had 11 successful editions, and our platform serves as a launchpad for emerging designers. It’s like primary school for them - a starting point that prepares them for the next level. Most of our designers begin their journey with us.” This sentiment encapsulates the essence of AFWN, a platform that has become a launching pad for emerging designers in the fashion industry.

“This is our 11th edition, and the platform acts as a springboard for emerging designers who want to go into the fashion industry,” Queen Ogunwusi, a longtime champion of African creativity whose portfolio includes founding Africa Fashion Week London and the Adire Oodua Textile & Training Hub, explained. “African Fashion Week Nigeria is like primary school, before they go to secondary, and then they go to university. So, they all start from us, from most of them”, she noted further. Queen Ogunwusi’s passion for promoting African creativity and innovation shines through in her words. As Africa Fashion Week Nigeria continues to grow and expand, it’s clear that the platform will remain a vital launching pad for emerging designers and a celebration of African fashion excellence. When asked what sets this year’s edition apart, Queen Ogunwusi highlighted the diversity of designers from across Africa. “Every year, we have different designers from across Africa. So, as you’ve seen on the runway today, so many designs that you have never seen before. Because most times, this is their first time showcasing. So, as I said, we act as a springboard. And we know that for creativity to grow, there must be a platform that showcases this growth. And a lot of them start from us.” AFWN has built a reputation for elevating emerging talent and merging fashion with culture and purpose. Her vision is that AFWN should be more than a catwalk; it must be a catalyst for

economic growth, artistic exchange, and deeper cultural resonance. AFWN has in previous years served as a showcase and launchpad for designers across Nigeria and the African continent. More than 3,000 designers have participated in AFWN and its sister events to date, drawing over 90,000 visitors, including industry buyers, media, and stakeholders. In 2025, the festival was reimagined to deliver immersive experiences beyond standard fashion week models. Expanding the Platform Looking ahead, Queen Ogunwusi shared her vision for expanding the platform. “We’ve been expanding it. We have 15 years of African Fashion Week London, 11 years of African Fashion Week Nigeria, and two years of African Fashion Week Brazil. We intend to go to Ghana, South Africa, and different parts of Africa. Because our creativity, the creativity that comes out of Africa, is like a bottomless pit. You keep on digging, digging, and you just don’t know what you’re going to get.” With a clear vision and a passion for promoting African creativity, AFWN is set to continue its mission of empowering the next generation of fashion designers. AFWN 2025 was more than just a fashion event - it was a celebration of African creativity, innovation, and style. With designers like Klass Kay and EAA pushing the boundaries of fashion, it’s clear that Africa is a force to be reckoned with in the global fashion industry. As the event comes to a close, one thing is certain: African fashion is here to stay, and Lagos will always be at the heart of it.

T H I S D AY • FRIday, JANUARY 9, 2026

features

The Sahara Group Foundation Extrapreneur Revolution and Real Community Impact

Entrepreneurship in Africa is increasingly less about profit and more about purpose. Across the continent, young innovators are stepping forward to solve real, everyday problems in their communities, often with limited resources but limitless resolve. Through its EXTRApreneur ecosystem, the Sahara Group Foundation is helping to turn this determination into durable impact, backing ideas that are rooted in local realities and driven by the ambition to transform lives, not just markets. Uzoma Mba reports

ntrepreneurship, across Africa today, is more than an economic engine. It is more of a quiet revolution reshaping communities, households, and

futures. According to the African Development Bank, small and medium enterprises account for over 80% of jobs created across the continent, yet only a fraction ever receive the capital, training or market access needed to survive their first three years. For millions of young Africans bursting with ideas but constrained by structural barriers, the gap between innovation and opportunity has become one of the continent’s most persistent development challenges. For Sahara Group, a leading international energy and infrastructure conglomerate, entrepreneurship holds the bedrock for sustainable development in Africa. This drive to harness entrepreneurial opportunities and capacity in Africa is propelling Sahara Group Foundation’s EXTRApreneur ecosystem. The Sahara Group Foundation is the social responsibility arm of Sahara Group that is committes to building sustainable communities in Africa through extraprenuership. The Sahara Group Foundation EXTRApreneur drive is a movement powered by grit, creativity, and the belief that when African entrepreneurs are supported with the right tools, they do more than build businesses, they facilitate change. “What we are seeing is a new wave of Africans who are not waiting for permission to create impact,” said Kola Adesina, Executive Director, Sahara Group. “Our role is to widen the runway so they can take off.” For the past four years, the Sahara Impact Fund programme and subsequently, the MADAA programme have quietly become one of the continent’s most compelling incubators of community-rooted innovation. These programmes function as a continental proving ground where resilience meets opportunity, and where early-stage founders learn to turn ideas into enterprises capable of shifting realities on the ground. In this year’s cycle, more than 2,000 young innovators from across 15 African countries applied, each carrying a story shaped by local problems and powered by ambition. Their ideas ranged from waste-to-energy solutions in Lagos to science-education labs in Nairobi, organic skincare lines in Accra, circular-economy models in Kampala, and wheelchair engineering in Johannesburg. What united them was not industry, but impact. “We come from communities that expect solutions, not excuses,” said Tracey Shiundu, one of the awardees from Kenya. “This support gives us the chance to meet those expectations.” For many of these founders, the obstacles they face are as real as their dreams. They usually range from limited financing, fragmented policy environments, supply-chain gaps, to skill shortages, and intense market pressures. This is where Sahara’s EXTRApreneur framework becomes catalytic. Beyond grants, the

Ade Odunsi, Executive Director, Sahara Group flanked by awardees of the Sahara Group Foundation’s Making A Difference Around Africa (MADAA) and the Sahara Impact Fund initiatives at the Gala Awards ceremony in Lagos, Nigeria

Kola Adesina, Executive Director, Sahara Group flanked by awardees of the Sahara Group Foundation’s Making A Difference Around Africa (MADAA) and the Sahara Impact Fund initiatives at the Gala Awards ceremony in Lagos, Nigeria

L-R: Program Supervisor, Sahara Group Foundation, David Ayinde; Head, Corporate Communications, Sahara Group, Bethel Obioma; Executive Director, Sahara Group, Kola Adesina; and Director, Sahara Group Foundation, Chidilim Menakaya at the Foundation’s Gala Awards Ceremony for winners of the Making A Difference Around Africa (MADAA) and the Sahara Impact Fund initiatives at the Gala Awards ceremony in Lagos, Nigeria

programme equips participants with governance training, commercial modelling, business advisory support, communications strategy, and the discipline required to convert passion into long-term structure. To reinforce the human-centred purpose behind this model, Bethel Obioma, Head of Corporate Communications at Sahara Group, captures the heartbeat of the movement: “Across Africa, entrepreneurship is increasingly

a lifeline for communities. What we see in the EXTRApreneur ecosystem is proof that when young people are given structure, guidance, and the right kind of support, they build solutions that uplift more than themselves.” “African entrepreneurs are not short on ingenuity,” noted Ade Odunsi, Executive Director, Sahara Group. “What they need is structure, clarity, and the right kind of strategic push. That is what EXTRApreneurship provides.”

What emerges is a new generation of “EXTRA”preneurs who do not merely “hustle,” but build with intention. Founders who understand their markets, measure their impact, and embrace the responsibility that comes with growth. Take the environmental innovators who are turning agricultural waste into smokeless briquettes to fight deforestation in rural Nigeria. Or the health-tech pioneer in Ethiopia building medical distribution systems for underserved communities. Or the Ugandan chemist who created organic mosquito-repellent products now used by families living in malaria-endemic zones. Their success is not theoretical; it is measurable, tangible, human. “In Uganda, breaking past survival mode is a battle,” said Joan Rukundo Nalubega. “This grant helps us move from surviving to scaling.” And when these small wins multiply across borders, what begins as a grant programme becomes an engine of continental transformation. “These are not small interventions,” said Chidilim Menakaya, Director, Sahara Group Foundation. “Each entrepreneur carries a ripple effect that touches homes, markets, and futures.” And this is what makes the EXTRApreneur Revolution distinct. Entrepreneurship is not celebrated for its glamour, but for its grounding in community problems that demand solutions. Businesses are valued not only for revenue, but for relevance. “Our products come from African soil and serve African needs,” added Violet Amoabeng, an awardee from Ghana. “This support proves that local solutions deserve global confidence.” Growth is measured not just by scale, but by the number of lives made easier, safer, healthier, or more hopeful. “Mobility is a lifeline,” shared Ernest Majenge from South Africa. “This grant strengthens our ability to return dignity to people who rely on wheelchairs every day.” Sahara Group’s role in this story is not to stand at the centre, but to widen the path. By deliberately aligning the Sahara Impact Fund with MADAA, the Sahara Group Foundation has built a streamlined innovation pipeline; one that doesn’t just reward ideas but strengthens the people behind them. Governance becomes as important as creativity. Sustainability becomes inseparable from profitability. Execution becomes a discipline, not an aspiration. And yet, the most compelling part of this movement is the human thread running through it. Every founder who receives support becomes an ambassador of possibility in their community. They employ neighbours. They mentor younger dreamers. “What this grant gives Ethiopia is not just expansion,” said Dr. Sisay Abebe, “but the chance to get essential health products to people who need them.” They demonstrate, simply by existing, that African problems can be solved by African solutions. One entrepreneur at a time. Africa’s future will not be built solely by policies. It will be built by people who are resilient, imaginative, and unafraid to try. And as long as EXTRApreneurs continue to rise across the continent, Sahara Group’s investment in them becomes more than a programme. It becomes a legacy.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 9, 2026 • THISDAY

NEWS

DIOCESE OF LAGOS BISHOPS AND WIVES RETREAT...

L-R: Wife of the Bishop of the Diocese of Lagos, Mrs. Modupe Okupevi; Bishop, Diocese of Lagos, Rt. Revd. Dr. Ifedola Okupevi; Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Primate, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Revd. Henry Ndukuba; his wife, Mrs. Angela Ndukuba; and Dean, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Revd. Blessing Enyidah, during the Diocese of Lagos Bishops and Wives Retreat at Archbishop Adebola and Mrs. Oluranti Ademowo Christian Resource Centre (Faith Plaza), Bariga, on Wednesday

Declare State of Emergency on ‘One-chance’Vehicle Operators, Female Lawyers Charge Wike, Police, DSS Protest killing of colleague, nurse, others

Alex Enumah in Abuja

Female lawyers under the platform of International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) have called on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike and all heads of security agencies in the country to declare a “State of Emergency” over the menace of “One-chance” vehicle operators in the FCT. The group made the call on Thursday, while speaking with journalists in Abuja, on the brutal murder of a nurse, Chinemerem Chuwumeziem and a senior legal practitioner, Princess Chigbo Mediatrix, by suspected gang of one-chance operators in the FCT. The lawyer’s lifeless body was found dumped by the roadside by her attackers a few days after the killing of the healthcare worker. Speaking on the development, Chairperson of FIDA, Abuja branch, Mrs. Chioma Onyenucheya-Uko, lamented that the tragedy is a searing indictment of the growing insecurity in the FCT, a city that ought to represent

safety, order, and the rule of law. “While we mourn deeply with the family, colleagues, and loved ones of our fallen colleague, we condemn in the strongest possible terms, this heinous and dastardly act. No society that claims to be governed by law should tolerate the routine abduction, assault, and murder of its citizens, particularly in its

capital city”, she said. Stressing the incident is not isolated, FIDA claimed it forms part of a disturbing pattern of “one-chance” operations that have continued unabated, despite repeated public outcries, media reports, and citizen distress. “The time for expressions of sympathy has passed. What is urgently required now is

Following current security challenges across the country, students of the tertiary institutions have been admonished to always be security conscious and should under no circumstances disclose their personal security. A security expert and the guest lecturer who delivered a lecture titled, Managing Security and Rumours in the Campus, Mr. A Musa, at the 33rd matriculation ceremony of the Kogi State Polytechnic in Lokoja on Thursday, expressed this position. Musa explained that security

networks as well as prioritize the installation and activation of functional CCTV surveillance, particularly along major transport corridors, drop off points, and identified hotspots. FIDA in addition urged for the urgent regulation and sanitization of commercial transportation, including clear identification, registration, and monitoring of

public and informal transport operators. The association also called on the Police, Department of State Service (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and others to embark on intelligence-driven patrols, stop-and-search operations, and covert surveillance along known one-chance routes.

Publishers, Veterans Issue 14-Days Ultimatum to Police to Unravel Attackers of Arise NEWS Crew in Rivers

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

A group under the aegis of Port Harcourt Press (PHP) has called on the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun and the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Adewole Adepoju, to speedily investigate, arrest and prosecute the attackers of the Arise NEWS Crew and an ex-commissioner in the state. The Arise NEWS Crew and the former Rivers Commissioner for Employment, Dr. Leloonu

Nwibubasa, were attacked by suspected armed men, during an interview in Port Harcourt. Though the stolen items have been recovered and returned to the Arise NEWS staff, but there has not been report of arrest or prosecution of the suspects. During a media conference in Port Harcourt, yesterday, the group who are body of veterans, publishers and media managers in Rivers, noted that, “When that journalism profession is threatened, the society of course will come under siege”.

Be Security Conscious, Security Expert Warns Students Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

decisive, coordinated, and visible action”, she said, while calling on the FCT minister for, “An immediate declaration of a security emergency against the menace of one-chance operators within the FCT.” According to her, the minister should establish and publicly unveil taskforce dedicated solely to dismantling these criminal

is everybody’s business, urging students across tertiary institutions to take the issue of security seriously. He highlighted some key factors that vitiate security within and outside campuses such posting on social media, disclosing vital information about themselves, keeping bad gangs, et cetera, warning against the danger of spreading rumours and unverified information. He advised students not to disclose their personal security to anyone because such information could be used to trace the person and

then become vulnerable to men of underworld. He therefore cautioned all students across campus not announce their movement on social media, posting sensitive information about themselves, and disclosing to people about the their impending journeys. He told them not to walk alone within or outside campuses and to always inform their partners or friends when going out. The guest lecturer warned that student should avoid travelling in the night because of the free movement by criminal elements.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Hon. Ogbonna Nwuke, a former House of Representatives member who represented the Etche/Omuma Federal Constituency, stated the attack was an act of intimidation, threat to both the Nigerian media and human lives, especially in the forceful carting away of broadcast equipment. Nwuke who is the publisher of Port Harcourt Telegraph, said that an attack on journalists on their legitimate duty is a direct assault on the larger society. “This body has watched with utter consternation, the trend of things vis-a-vis further allegations by the interviewee, Dr. Leloonu Nwibubasa, that the invaders were bold enough in boasting that, any statement against their

leader, Chief Nyesom Wike will be challenged and resisted, and those involved will be dealt with. Such a barbaric style of politics is quite ancient and this body condemns in its totality the resort to brigandage and barbarian approach in seeking for power or relevance in whatever form.” Stressing that “this event became necessary drawing from the fact that society collapses quite fast when evil is allowed to thrive while good people keep silent”, the group regretted that the incident is a litmus test of what desperate politicians want to re-enact in the state and create an insecure environment. “From available information, the Police appear to be playing to the gallery. While the broadcast

equipment was reportedly recovered, no definite arrests have been made. Even more troubling is the fact that Dr. Nwibubasa reportedly mentioned the name of a particular perpetrator, yet no immediate action was taken. “The silence of the Police Authority since Friday January 2, raises serious concerns. We are therefore constrained to believe that the Police may be compromised and, by implication, complicit in this heinous act against the journalism profession in Rivers State.” The body therefore demanded an urgent and thorough investigation of the matter, saying that those found culpable should be brought to justice within two weeks.

Edo Vaccination Campaign Targets 2.2m Children for Immunisation

Felix Omoh-Asun in Benin

Nigeria Integrated Mass Vaccination Campaign is targeting 2.2 million children for vaccination in the ongoing campaign against measles and rubella. This was disclosed in Benin yesterday by Dr. Eseigbe Efeomo, the Director, Disease Control and Immunization of Edo State Primary Healthcare Department Agency.

In a media parley organised to sensitize journalists on the immunization project, Efeomo explained the campaign which commences on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, across the 18 local government areas of the State, will last for 10 days. According to Efeomon, Edo State falls in phase 2, stream 1 of the immunization campaign that began late last year in the north. Also speaking, the State

Coordinator of National Primary Healthcare Department Agency, Mr Osawe Lawani, described measles and rubella as deadly viral infections. He said, however, this could be halted by vaccination. He added that children of 9 months to 14 years will benefit from the 2-in-1 vaccination, even as he added that vaccinated children would be issued vaccination cards.

THISDAY • FRIDAY, JANUARY 9, 2026

NEWS

INSTALLATION OF MORONKE AS THE IYA OBA OF JOGA-ORILE...

Oba Adeyemi Adekeye, Abepa of Joga-Orile (R), installing Chief Mrs Moronke Faloyin-Badejo as the Iya Oba of Joga-Orile at the Abepa of Joga-Orile Palace in Ogun on Wednesday

AFCRD Celebrates Sacrifices of Personnel Who Paid Supreme Price in Defence of Nigeria Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced that 15 January is observed annually by the Federal Government of Nigeria to honour both the living personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) and those who have paid the supreme price in the defence of

the nation’s territorial integrity, as well as the lives and property of its citizens. The day, it said is preceded by a week-long series of activities, culminating in a grand parade and wreath-laying ceremony on 15 January. Formerly known as “Armed Forces Remembrance Day”, the

occasion was officially renamed “Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day” to better capture its dual purpose: honouring the living while commemorating fallen heroes. In a statement, the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, urged members of the media to adopt the new

name in all future coverage. “The AFN once again appreciates the media’s unwavering support in the fight against insecurity and looks forward to even stronger collaboration ahead,” he said. In a related development, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu,

E-Registration: Governor Mbah Sets 2m Enugu APC Membership Target Says era of fringe politics over

Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, says the Enugu State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) aims to build a twomillion-member base, noting the era of fragmented politics that denied Enugu State the benefits of the centre was over. Mbah stated this during the flag-off of the APC eregistration exercise at Owo, Nkanu East Local Government Area of Enugu State, on Thursday, describing the exercise as a defining moment to concretise the movement from the Peoples Democratic Party to the APC.

“It was just barely two and a half months ago that we chose partnership, progress, and chose to stop being on the sidelines. The time that we played fragmented politics is over. “We no longer want to be on the sidelines, but we want to be at the centre and play dominant politics. This requires that we support the politics at the centre. “It suffices to say that we do have a target. We have the sentiment that we are not going to give 5 per cent and expect the same treatment as those who gave 95 per cent.

So, we now have a duty to change that. “So, we have a target of registering at least a minimum of two million persons here in Enugu because when we had this grand movement, it was not about Peter Mbah, the state government, or a particular arm of government. It was total. “So, we have work to do to ensure that the banner of our political party is entrenched in our various homes, not just communities. This is to make sure that our people are not confused and know where we stand at the centre, state, and local government levels.

We are APC in the morning. We are APC in the day and we are APC in the night,” he asserted. Mbah explained the movement from the Peoples Democratic Party to the APC in October 2025 was not to displace those already in the house, but to make the house stronger, more viable, and more beneficial to the people of Enugu State going forward.

extended condolences to the Bayelsa State Government and the people of the state over the passing of the Deputy Governor, the late Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who died in December 2025. Describing the loss as both painful and significant, General Shaibu called for continued prayers and support for the bereaved family. He conveyed his sympathy during a courtesy visit to the Executive Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, at the Government House, Yenagoa, as part of his maiden operational tour of the 6 Division Area of Responsibility, which covers Bayelsa State. According to the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the COAS commended the Bayelsa State Government for its sustained support to Nigerian Army formations in the state, particularly 16 Brigade, noting that such collaboration is vital for operational effectiveness, troop welfare, and the maintenance of security.

General Shaibu specifically praised Governor Diri for the construction and donation of nine three-bedroom quarters for Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs) and two blocks of nine two-bedroom apartments for Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) serving in 16 Brigade, describing the intervention as timely and impactful. “These accommodation facilities will significantly alleviate housing challenges for personnel, boost morale, and enhance operational efficiency within the Brigade,” he said. The Army Chief, who observed notable infrastructural improvements across Bayelsa State since his last visit five years ago, assured Governor Diri of the Nigerian Army’s continued collaboration with the state government to ensure peace, security, and stability. In response, Governor Diri expressed appreciation for the visit and reaffirmed the state government’s unwavering support for the Nigerian Army and other security agencies operating in Bayelsa.

Lagos Mobilises Stakeholders Ahead of Measles–Rubella Vaccine Rollout

active participation of influential engagement programme was Ogundare groups in encouraging parents designed to clearly communicate Nigeria Secures Release of Pastor Funmi The Lagos State Government and adolescents to embrace the the importance of the measles-rubella vaccine and to enlist community said it has intensified new vaccine. Egbaji from Republic of Benin yesterday According to him, the MR vaccine leaders as ambassadors who would efforts towards mobilising key stakeholders across communities, rollout goes beyond procurement help promote the initiative at the Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has secured the release of a Nigerian cleric, Pastor Benjamin Egbaji, who had been imprisoned in the Republic of Benin amid growing concerns over his deteriorating health and treatment in custody. Pastor Egbaji, a businessman and religious leader from Cross

River State, regained his freedom on Thursday, following a presidential pardon granted by Beninois President Patrice Talon. The pardon, which was gazetted in December 2025, came after months of sustained diplomatic engagement by Nigeria. Egbaji had been in detention for more than two years after being accused of various

offences. He was initially held in a hospital in Cotonou under conditions described by officials as degrading, before being transferred to a correctional facility. His situation attracted national attention after images showing him visibly ill and restrained to a hospital bed circulated widely, triggering public outrage and diplomatic intervention.

religious institutions and social groups to ensure the successful introduction of the Measles–Rubella (MR) vaccine scheduled to commence on January 20. Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement on the Routine Immunisation (RI) schedule, the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Primary Healthcare Board, Dr. Ibrahim Akinwunmi Mustafa, explained the meeting was aimed at securing the interest, support and

and distribution, requiring strong community advocacy to ensure that eligible children between the ages of nine months and 14 years, are brought out for vaccination. “It is not just about getting the vaccine or the logistics to deliver it. We need people who will encourage mothers, fathers and adolescents to come forward, and that is where stakeholders play a critical role,” he said. Mustafa stated the stakeholders’

grassroots level. He noted that the goal was to ensure that all children across Lagos state, irrespective of religious or social background, receive the vaccine. He stressed the dangers associated with rubella, particularly for pregnant women, noting that infection could lead to congenital rubella syndrome, which may result in babies being born deaf, blind, dumb or with cognitive impairments.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 9, 2026 • THISDAY

NEWS

DECORATION OF NEWLY PROMOTED FFS OFFICERS...

L-R: Controller General, Nigeria Correctional Service, Sylvester Nwakuche; Commandant General of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Prof. Ahmed Audi; Controller General of Federal Fire Service (FFS), Olumode Samuel and Secretary to the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB), retired Maj.-Gen. Abdulmalik Jubrin, during the decoration of newly promoted FFS officers in Abuja on Wednesday

Nwoko Dismisses Negative Drug Test Claims About His Estranged Wife, Regina Daniels Insisting temporary abstinence not sobriety

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

Senator Ned Nwoko representing Delta North Senatorial District has cautioned the public against what he described as a misleading attempt to equate a recent negative drug test result about his estranged wife, Regina Daniels with genuine recovery. In a statement issued by the senator’s communication team and posted on his verified official X-handle on Thursday, Nwoko argued that a later negative drug test result does not invalidate earlier findings that allegedly confirmed the use of drugs and alcohol. According to the statement, those earlier findings were established through assessments carried out by two independent and reputable centres in Nigeria and South Africa. Nwoko stressed the earlier reports were professionally conducted, formally documented, and remain admissible evidence, which would be presented and defended in court. He added the centres involved would be subpoenaed to testify to their findings, insisting that

any subsequent test must be subjected to the same level of judicial scrutiny. Part of the statement read, “Presenting a later negative result as proof that no prior use occurred is misleading and disingenuous. “At best, it reflects abstinence over a period of time. It does not invalidate earlier medical reports, nor does it negate what necessitated intervention in the first place.” The senator also criticised what he described as attempts to downplay the seriousness of MDMA, commonly known as Molly. He noted that regardless of how casually it is referenced or rebranded, it remains a drug with well-documented risks and consequences. “Renaming it does not alter its chemical composition, its risks, or its impact on judgment and stability,” the statement added. Beyond the dispute over test results, Nwoko emphasised that recovery and accountability could not be reduced to public performances or social media engagements. He maintained that healing

requires sustained effort, honesty and long-term professional support, rather than episodic or selective compliance. According to the statement, long before the matter became public, the senator explored multiple avenues to provide support, including private rehabilitation and structured therapy aimed at long-term recovery. He said these efforts were pursued discreetly and without media

second quarter of 2025, suggesting a strong close to the year. “Nigeria’s foreign reserves have crossed the $45 billion mark, giving the Central Bank the firepower to maintain stability. The Naira has stabilised, moving away from the volatility that once fuelled speculation. The Central Bank of Nigeria, in its latest outlook, projects foreign reserves will cross the $50 billion threshold in the first quarter of 2026. “We are also seeing an expansion of the rail networks, the completion of major arterial roads and the revitalisation of our ports. With the transformative Lagos-Clabar and Sokoto-Badagry superhighways, the nation’s infrastructure is growing. “Our medicare facilities are

quiet, consistent healing rather than public drama. The statement further added, “It is therefore inaccurate to suggest consistent sobriety or to dismiss prior findings. “A single test, taken at a time of one’s choosing, does not outweigh documented assessments conducted independently and professionally.” The senator also called for credibility and transparency in

any ongoing claims, stressing that any test conducted anywhere in the world would be subject to court scrutiny. He noted that, for clarity, the court could appoint a neutral and credible laboratory to independently verify competing claims. The statement noted that “If accountability is to be invoked, then it must acknowledge the reality of a problem and demonstrate a willingness to address it.”

Zamfara Govt Accuses Matawalle of Using NSA’s Office to ‘Abduct’ State Officials Chuks Okocha in Abuja and John Shiklam in Kaduna

Zamfara State Government has raised the alarm over what it described as the alleged abduction of one of its officials in Abuja, accusing federal security operatives of being used to harass and intimidate opposition figures within the state. The state government claimed that the operation was

TINUBU HAILS CORPORATE NIGERIA, OTHER STAKEHOLDERS OVER NGX N100TRN MILESTONE IN CAPITAL MARKET

all Nigerians.” Tinubu added, “Also noteworthy is the status of our nation’s current account, a valid measure of our overall economic health. In 2024, Nigeria posted a surplus of $16 billion. According to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), our current account balance is projected to rise to $18.81 billion in 2026, up from $16.94 billion in 2025. “Under our administration, Nigeria is exporting more and importing less of what we can produce locally. Non-oil exports surged by 48 per cent by the third quarter of 2025, totalling N9.2 trillion. Exports to Africa alone rose by 97% to N4.9 trillion. Manufacturing exports increased by 67 per cent year-on-year in the

attention, in order to preserve family stability and protect the wellbeing of the children involved. Nwoko further referenced a court judgment that granted him custody and dismissed what he described as unsubstantiated human rights abuse claims previously brought forward. The court, he noted, ordered supervised therapy with evidence of compliance, an approach he said was designed to encourage

improving, and medical tourism costs are declining. Our students benefit from the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), and universities are receiving increased research grants.” The president said, “Nationbuilding is a process, not a destination. Hard work, sacrifices, and the focus of its citizens build a nation. The N100 trillion market capitalisation is a signal to the world that the Nigerian economy is robust and productive. “As your leader, I pledge to continue working unrelentingly to build an egalitarian, transparent, and high-growth economy that will be further catalysed by the historic tax and fiscal reforms that came into full implementation from January 1”.

orchestrated by Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, describing the development as troubling. Citing an instance, the government said Saleem Abubakar, a technical assistant in the office of the Zamfara State governor, was allegedly abducted in the Federal Capital Territory by operatives linked to the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA). In a statement, spokesman to the Zamfara State Governor, Sulaiman Idris, said the incident had heightened concerns over the growing use of federal institutions for political persecution.

“We received a shocking and distressing message that Saleem Abubakar, a technical assistant in the office of the Zamfara State Governor, was abducted in Abuja yesterday,” Idris said. The state government said the alleged abduction was carried out without an arrest warrant, by a special security unit said to be operating from the NSA’s office. “The illegal abduction was said to be carried out by a special forces unit from the office of the National Security Adviser,” the statement alleged. It added, “The most unfortu-

nate and worrying part of the abduction of Saleem Abubakar is that it was syndicated through the office of the NSA by the state minister for defence, Bello Matawalle.” Idris alleged that Abubakar was taken to an undisclosed location and later moved between different facilities, which he said was an attempt to conceal his whereabouts and obscure accountability. “The abductors, without an arrest warrant, took Saleem to an unknown location, which we later found out they moved him from to different facilities to cover their tracks,” he stated.

Four Million Muslims Expected in Katsina for Sheikh Nyass Maulud Francis Sardauna in Katsina No fewer than four million Muslims from 15 countries across West and North Africa are expected to converge on Katsina State for the 40th Maulud of the renowned Tijaniyya Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ibrahim Nyass. The Chairman of the Main Organising Committee, Sheikh Muhammad Hadi-Balarabe, disclosed this at a news briefing

in Katsina, describing the annual Maulud as one of the largest Islamic gatherings in the sub-region. Hadi-Balarabe said the Maulud is being organised by the national body of Majma’u Ahbab Sheikh Ibrahim Nyass and is scheduled to hold on January 17, 2026, in the ancient city of Katsina. The theme of this year’s event is: “Life of Sheikh Ibrahim Nyass, His Works and Contributions to Islam.”

He said followers of the Tijaniyya Sect, Islamic scholars and clerics from about 15 countries in West and North Africa have confirmed their participation in the programme, which is expected to attract a larger crowd than previous editions. “In 2016, we recorded about three million participants. This year, with increased awareness and participation from more countries, we are projecting over four million people,” he said.

THISDAY • FRIDAY, JANUARY 9, 2026

NEWS

KALU’S COURTESY VISIT...

R-L: Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, and National Vice Chairman, All Progressives Congress (APC), South East/ Chairman, Governing Board, David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital, Ebonyi State, Dr. Ijeomah Arodiogbu, during the visit to Umuahia, Abia State...recently

Afenifere Challenges South-west Governors to Take Urgent Action against Terrorism

NADECO USA urges Tinubu to declare emergency rule in northern states

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Afenifere, yesterday, decried the upsurge in terror attacks in parts of Yorubaland and other parts of Nigeria, urging state governors from the South-west geopolitical zone to take urgent actions. That was as a pro-democracy organisation based in the United States, National Democratic Coalition (NADECO USA), urged President Bola Tinubu to declare six months emergency rule in some states of the north held by insurgents and terrorists,

stating that the 2027 elections cannot be conducted in the face of insecurity. Afenifere, in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, decried the recent killing of some Forest Guards at Old Oyo National Park in Oloka, Oriire Local Government Area, and the killing of four farmers in Igboho, Oorelope Local Government Area, both in Oyo State. It further condemned the abduction of a nursing mother and her child in Supare/Ajegunle in Akoko South Local government Area of Ondo State, the apprehension of some bandits

in Ondo who were alleged to have fled Sokoto in the wake of America’s bombardment of their hideouts, and the burning down of a police station in Ipele, also in Ondo State. Afenifere challenged the Southwest governors to put life to the resolution they made when they met in Ibadan on November 24, 2025 on the security of the region. South-west governors had resolved to, among others, set up South West Security Fund (SWSF) that would institute a “Joint Security Intelligence Sharing and Communication

Platform” for the purpose of exchanging threat notifications, incident logs, traveller and cargo alerts, and coordinate state-tostate rapid response. Ajayi urged the governors to quickly actualise the arrangement and jointly acquire necessary facilities to secure the region. “Kwara and Kogi states, including Edo and Delta states, can be brought into the loop in view of insecurity linkage with these states,” Ajayi said. Afenifere said strategies to be mapped out should include concrete re-orientation on the need to place greater value on life,

Ugochinyere Quits PDP, Joins APP Amby Uneze in Owerri

Member representing Ideato Federal Constituency of Imo State in the House of Representatives, Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, has left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and defected to the Action Peoples Party (APP). The Chairman, House Committee on petroleum downstream sector, defected along with

members of other opposition parties at a ceremony held in his Constituency on Wednesday, December 7, 2026. The occasion, held at St. Peter’s Field, Akokwa in Ideato North Local Government Area of the State, marked the end of his PDP membership and the beginning of a new era in APP. The event drew widespread attention and underscored the

growing momentum of in the state. On hand to receive him were the national leadership of APP, led by its National Chairman, Uchenna Nnadi. Playing host were members of the Imo State Interim Executive Committee, led by Hon. Ernest Njesi, who ensured the seamless integration of Rt. Hon. Ugochinyere into the party as

their presence highlighted the unity and organizational strength of the party at both national and state levels. Also gracing the occasion was the state leader of APP, Mazi Chima Matthew Amadi, alongside members of The Mazi Organization (TMO), prominent among whom were Hon. Henry Onwukwe and Hon. Michael Crown Njoku.

de-radicalisation, debriefing of youths who had been negatively indoctrinated, restructuring the security architecture, appropriate training of security personnel, motivation and empowerment of the personnel, including the provision of modern security equipment as well as the immediate take-off of state police. Ajayi added that in view of the need to tinker with the Nigerian constitution to have state police, a presidential order could be made to have various levels of the existing police structure at state and community levels to be peopled by indigenes or inhabitants of the given areas. On his part, President and Chief Executive Officer of NADECO USA, Lloyd Ukwu, while addressing issues concerning the peace of the country, said the Nigerian democracy was at risk if nothing was done to contain the activities of terrorists in the north before the 2027 elections. Ukwu stated, “Why Nigerians are gearing up for the 2027 elections, it is important to recognise that free, fair and credible elections cannot occur if terrorists are occupying parts

of northern Nigeria. How and where would these individuals cast their votes? “The issue must be resolved before 2027 elections. Nigeria often prioritise the wrong issues. Why are we discussing 2027 elections when we are unable or unwilling to secure the lives and property of its citi-zens.” Ukwu tasked the president to consider emergency rule in states where bandits and insurgent were holding down, adding that issues of insecurity must be resolved before the 2027 elections. He stressed , “Considering the ongoing crises in northern Nigeria, which includes attacks from insurgent groups and bandits, the president may want to consider declaring a six months state of emergency in the affected northern states or all 19 northern states. “This would grant the federal government the extraordinary power to coordinate security operations. As part of this strategy the administration would formally request that the United States deploy a limited contingent of special operations forces to assist Nigerian troops.”

Buratai Slams N1bn Libel Suit on Retired General over Alleged Terrorism Financing

John Shiklam in Kaduna

Former Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt-Gen Tukur Buratai (rtd), has approached a Kaduna State High Court, seeking N1 billion in damages over defamatory allegations made against him by a fellow retired military officer, Maj-Gen. Danjuma Hamisu Ali Keffi. The suit, filed yesterday, arose from statements allegedly made by Ali Keffi and circulated through online media platforms, allegedly linking Buratai to terrorism financing, Boko Haram suspects, and

the unlawful release and shielding of terror suspects. Buratai, who instituted the action through his lawyers, A. I Aliyu and A. M Hassan of Law Plus Consult, asked the court to declare that “the publications, which appeared on Sahara Reporters and further amplified on several news and social media platforms, were false, malicious and damaging to his reputation.” Court filings revealed that Buratai accused Ali Keffi of granting interviews in 2025 during which he allegedly suggested that he (Buratai) maintained relationships with

individuals linked to terrorism and participated in efforts to conceal terrorism related activities while serving as Chief of Army Staff. The former army chief stated that the allegations gained wide circulation on digital platforms, including Facebook, X, WhatsApp, and Instagram, exposing him to public ridicule and reputational harm both within and outside Nigeria. Buratai maintained, in his statement of claim, that he had never been investigated, indicted, or convicted for terrorism, terrorism financing, or any similar offence,

describing the allegations as baseless and misleading He argued that the statements presented him as “a threat to national security, an unpatriotic citizen and a corrupt public officer”, assertions he said severely undermined his integrity, honour and standing in the international community. According to him, the defendant “acted with malice and reckless disregard for the truth, even while acknowledging in the same publications that no official investigation had found Buratai culpable of terrorism financing.”

The former army chief, therefore, sought “an order of court directing Ali Keffi to retract the statements and issue an unreserved public apology, to be published with equal prominence on Sahara Reporters, in two national newspapers, and across all social media platforms where the allegations were circulated.” He also prayed the court for N1 billion compensation as general damages for libel, citing the seriousness of terrorism related accusations, the extent of their dissemination, and the influence associated with the defendant’s

status as a retired senior military officer. He prayed the court to grant a perpetual injunction, restraining Ali Keffi from further making or repeating the alleged defamatory statements and to compel him to bear the full cost of the litigation, including legal fees. The writ of summon directed the defendant to enter an appearance within 21 days of being served, failing which the court may proceed with the matter in his absence. The court has yet to fix a date for hearing.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 9, 2026 • THISDAY

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2026 NEW YEAR CORPORATE COURTESY VISIT...

L-R: Otunba Ayo Olumuko, Infogem Limited; Oba Onisanlu of Isanlu, Kwara State; Olori Temitope Ogunwusi; Ms. Adenike Ajobo, Managing Director, Adron Homes Group; Arole Oduduwa Olofin Adimula, Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II; Sir Aare Adetola Emmanuelking, KOF, Akile Adimula Oduduwa Designate and Chairman/GCEO, Adron Homes Group; HRM, Alayeluwa Oba Peter Oluwole Ogunbayo (Otete III), Odemo-Elect of Isara Remo; and the Oba Olulamokun of Yakoyo, Osun State, during the 2026 New Year corporate courtesy visit by Adron Homes Group management to the Throne and House of Oduduwa at Ile Oodua Enuwa, Ile-Ife, Osun State …recently

CAS Moves to Fast-Track Delivery of 12 AH-1Z Attack Helicopters Linus Aleke in Abuja Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has led a Programme Management Review meeting with senior United States Government officials and representatives of Messrs Bell Textron in San Diego, California, USA, as part of a strategic effort to enhance the operational capability of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).

The engagement, the NAF said, centred on fast-tracking the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters, a critical capability upgrade aligned with the CAS’s Command Philosophy of building and sustaining a highly motivated, professional, and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower in synergy with ground forces to achieve national security objectives.

During the meeting, Aneke expressed appreciation to the United States government and Bell Textron for their continued cooperation, professionalism, and transparency in the execution of the helicopter acquisition programme. According to a statement by NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the CAS stated

that the structured review reflected NAF’s emphasis on programme discipline, accountability, and results. Aneke stated, “We deeply value the professionalism and openness demonstrated throughout this process, and we remain fully committed to working closely with our partners to ensure the timely and successful delivery of these platforms.”

He stressed that the acquisition of the AH-1Z helicopters represented more than a simple platform upgrade, describing it as a testament to the enduring defence cooperation between Nigeria and the United States. The CAS said the programme underscored a shared responsibility for regional and global security built on mutual trust, common values, and a collective vision for

peace and stability. “This partnership reflects our resolve to address evolving security challenges through collaboration and sustained capability development,” he added. Reaffirming NAF’s sense of urgency, Aneke assured the US team that his administration would take all necessary steps to ensure the helicopters were delivered in the shortest time possible.

RIVERS ASSEMBLY BEGINS THIRD IMPEACHMENT PROCEEDINGS AGAINST FUBARA

this matter is that, we solemnly reject the resort to an impeachment process against our governor and his deputy. “It will be totally untenable for our party to keep quiet when an obvious hangover from strife that occurred within the PDP are allowed to resurface in our great party. “It is important to say to Rivers people and Nigerians that since the latest threat of impeachment centres on the budget, may we remind ourselves that under the period of emergency rule, a budget was transmitted to the National Assembly by the President and Commander-in-Chief in May 2025 which was approved by the Senate on 25 June 2025 and subsequently by the House of Representatives on July 22, 2025 for a total sum of N1.485 trillion. “Interestingly, this budget is for one year and should run until August 2026 and if the governor is comfortable with the composition of the said budget, he may elect not to present any supplementary budget. Besides, the constitution allows for a six-months spending window into the new fiscal year by a state governor.” Nwauju called on the Assembly to immediately discontinue the impeachment process in order not to drag the image of APC in the mud and stifle the continuous progress and development of Rivers State.

CD to Tinubu: Rein in Wike, Halt Threat to Democracy in Rivers

Campaign for Democracy (CD) called on President Bola Tinubu to caution Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, over what it described as his “immature and destabilising” political conduct in Rivers State.

CD warned that Wike’s actions posed grave threat to democratic governance and national stability. In a statement by its National President, Pastor Ifeanyi Odili, the group alleged that last year’s political crisis and bloodshed in Rivers State were traceable to Wike’s unguarded utterances and actions against Fubara. It added that the development culminated in the controversial suspension of the governor, the introduction of an interim administration, and his eventual reinstatement following presidential intervention. According to CD, the chain of recent events has raised serious concerns about Wike’s influence in the state, his motivations, and the broader implications for Nigeria’s democracy. The organisation urged Tinubu to “advise and warn” his minister to exercise restraint, maturity and respect for democratic norms. It also stated that Wike’s public statements and political manoeuvres had the capacity to inflame tensions, incite violence, and erode public confidence in government institutions. Part of the statement read, “Mr. Wike’s conduct, if unchecked, threatens democratic principles and stability in Rivers State. “His actions and utterances give the impression of authoritarian tendencies that undermine democratic freedoms and the rule of law.” CD accused the former Rivers State governor of making inflammatory statements capable of encouraging hatred and violence. It stressed that such rhetoric could further destabilise an already fragile political environment in the state.

INC, IYC Warn Against Escalation of Political Hostili-ties in Rivers

ljaw National Congress (INC) and Ijaw Youth Council (IYC)

warned politicians against political hostilities in Rivers State. The Ijaw ethnic nationality urged Wike to desist from alleged hostilities and cease all acts and statements capable of destabilising the state. In the statement jointly signed by the chairmen of INC, Eastern Zone, Comrade Abel Peterside, and IYC, Eastern Zone, Comrade Datolu Sukubo, at a press conference in Port Harcourt, yesterday, the groups called on the minister to allow the peace accord facilitated by Tinubu to take root in the interest of governance, democracy, and public order They said they had observed with growing concern the increasingly confrontational posture adopted by Wike towards Fubara. The groups said the escalation of political tension posed a significant threat to public peace, democratic order, and the stability of Rivers State They stated, “The peace accord brokered by the president, Bola Tinubu, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Thursday, 26 June, 2025, between former Governor Wike and Governor Fubara was widely welcomed as a necessary step towards reconciling warring factions and restoring harmony in the state. “Regrettably, subsequent statements and activities attributed to Minister Wike have had the opposite effect, undermining the spirit and objectives of that agreement and reintroducing uncertainty into the political environment.” The Ijaw ethnic nationality further stressed that rather than allowing the post-agreement phase to consolidate, the minister had chosen a path defined by hostility, public provocations, and political interference. INC and IYC said regarding

Wike, “His utterances portraying himself as the ultimate arbiter of political succession in Rivers State, and his insistence on dictating who may or may not contest future elections, are deeply inconsistent with democratic norms and are an affront to the sovereign will of the electorate. “Particularly disturbing are reported demands that the governor dismiss senior officials – including the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Tammy Danagogo, and the Chief of Staff, Hon. Edison Ehie, and reinstate specific traditional leadership appointments. “Such demands constitute an unwarranted encroachment on the constitutional powers of a sitting governor and represent an attempt to personalise and monopolies the governance trajectory of Rivers State.”

HURIWA Rejects Rivers Impeachment Plot

Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) rejected the renewed moves by members of the Rivers State House of Assembly to impeach Governor Siminalayi Fubara, describing the threat as reckless, unconstitutional, and a grave danger to peace and democratic stability in the state. HURIWA said the impeachment plot, reportedly driven by lawmakers, now APC members, was politically perverse and morally indefensible. It alleged that the legislators were acting on the prompting of a non-APC member, Wike. The group warned that such a contradiction exposed the exercise as a proxy war rather than a constitutionally grounded oversight process. In a statement by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA called on Tinubu to

urgently intervene to stop what it described as a manufactured crisis. It insisted that the president, as leader of the ruling party and custodian of national stability, must not allow political manoeuvring to plunge Rivers State into avoidable turmoil. HURIWA stressed that allowing an impeachment to proceed under such circumstances would embolden political lawlessness and weaken democratic institutions nationwide. It urged the APC leadership to immediately issue a 24-hour ultimatum to the Assembly members to withdraw the impeachment threat or face disciplinary measures, including dismissal from the party, arguing that party discipline and constitutional order must prevail over factional interests and external interference. The group maintained that the impeachment threat failed basic constitutional tests, stating that impeachment is a serious remedy reserved for proven gross misconduct and not a tool for political vendetta. It said there had been no transparent, credible or lawful process establishing any impeachable offence against Fubara, warning that due process cannot be replaced by political theatrics without dire consequences for democracy and the rule of law. HURIWA also appealed to Chief Judge of Rivers State to resist any pressure to endorse or facilitate an impeachment process that was tainted by controversy and lacked constitutional merit. It cautioned that the judiciary must remain a bulwark against political abuse rather than an instrument for legitimising it.

Impeachment Not corrective, It’s Political misadventure

APC Progressive Mandate Group called for the immediate cessation of impeachment proceedings against Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, describ-ing it as constitutionally flawed, politically motivated, and a direct affront to the peace accord personally brokered by Tinubu. In a statement issued by Ayodele Alonge, the group warned that the impeachment, already initiated in the Rivers State House of Assembly, was being conducted on a faulty legal line and must be suspended to prevent further destabilisation of the state. The statement said, “The ongoing impeachment proceedings are fundamentally flawed and lack the constitutional and procedural grounding required for such a serious action. “More than a legal misstep, this is an affront on the office of the president, who personally mediated the peace between Governor Fubara, Minister Nyesom Wike, and the Rivers State House of Assembly. “It undermines the painstakingly restored harmony that Nigerians witnessed last year.” Impeachment proceedings were first initiated against Fubara by the Assembly in October 2023 over alleged gross misconduct. But it was dropped following a meeting called by Tinubu, where he tried to broker peace between the governor and Wike. The Assembly commenced another impeachment process against the governor and his deputy in March 2025, which, however, ended after Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025, suspending both the executive and legislative arms of the government for six months, and appointing a sole administrator for the state.

friday january 9, 2026 • T H i s d ay

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OKOYA’S FREE HEALTHCARE SUPPORT…

L-R: Mrs. Wosilat Okoya-Seriki; Wife of the Convener of Medical Outreach/Managing Director, Eleganza Industrial City Limited, Chief (Dr.) Folashade Noimat Okoya, Chairman, Sagittarius Home & Properties, Lekki, Lagos, Mr. Gbenga Obasa, and the daugher of the converner, Ms. Abimbola Okoya, at the fourth day of the Okoya Community Free Healthcare Outreach to mark Chief Okoya’s 86th birthday held at Oluwanishola Estate, Lekki-Ajah Expressway, Lagos…yesterday

Global Islamic Scholars Denounce Terrorism, Banditry

Raheem Akingbolu

Islamic scholars and clerics, drawn from Nigeria, the United States of America, Middle-East and Europe, have unanimously declared that criminal violence, including banditry and terrorism, has no link with Islam. They condemned all attempts to associate crime, injustice, and evil with the religion, warning that such links not only misrepresent Islam

but also fuel prejudice and religious intolerance. They spoke at the 17th Annual Islamic International Conference in Lagos, convened by the Daaru Na’im Academy for Shariah Sciences, Nigeria, and attracted over 20,000 participants and international scholars. Held from January 1 to 4, 2026, the four-day event addressed the critical theme, “The Jurisprudence of the Sound Creed and Contemporary Challenges,”

Otu Receives Naval Chief, Recommits to Strategic Security Partnerships Governor of Cross River State, Bassey Otu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening security and deepening strategic partnerships as he received the 25th Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, on a courtesy visit in Calabar. Governor Otu described the visit as a “homecoming,” noting that Vice Admiral Abbas had previously served in the state and was returning at the peak of his distinguished naval career. The governor emphasised the importance of sustained collaboration between Cross River State and the Nigerian Navy, stressing that the state’s strategic coastal location makes security cooperation vital to

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Momoh Isah Onimisi, hereby notify that I am now known and addressed as Momoh Isah Nimsi. henceforth, all existing documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I formerly known as Blessing Ngozi Ewiwilem, now wish to be called and addressed as Mrs Blessing Ngozi Eseka. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

protecting lives, investments and national assets. He assured the Naval Chief of the state government’s readiness to complement federal security efforts through coordinated action, improved maritime infrastructure and the deployment of state resources where necessary. In his remarks, Vice Admiral Abbas thanked Governor Otu for cutting short his official trip to receive him and his delegation, commending the governor’s visionary and people-centred leadership. The Naval Chief explained that the visit was part of his routine assessment of operational readiness and personnel welfare since assuming office on October 30, 2025.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as OGBEMISOLA FOLAKE OMILabu, now wish to be known and addressed as GBEMISOLA FOLAKE GABRIEL. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note. I formerly known and addressed as SALIU ABOSEDE VERONICA, now wish to be known and addressed as SALIU ABOSEDE ENIOLA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

drawing attendees from within Nigeria. The Deputy Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Mohammad Ali Wahiso, and representatives from Saudi Arabia emphasised that Islam is founded solely

on the principles of peace, justice, and the sanctity of human life. The conference focused mainly on addressing contemporary challenges, including extremism and

moral decay, by promoting cohesion and reinforcing the basic principles of the religion. The Director-General and Chief Imam of Daaru Na’im, Sheikh Abdul Mojeed Imran Eleha, stated that the conference

was aimed at examining the importance of sound Islamic belief across African societies in view of evolving social practices and behaviors that contradict the principles of authentic Islamic creed.

Kano Groups Vow to Actualise OlawepoHashim’s Presidential Ambition

Chuks Okocha inAbuja

Ahead of the 2027 presidential election, no fewer than four support groups backing the presidential aspiration of Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, have converged in Kano, pledging to intensify grassroots mobilisation to ensure the actualisation of his ambition.

The groups, which met separately before a joint convergence, vowed that they would no longer work for politicians who use supporters merely as stepping stones to power, only to abandon them afterwards. They expressed firm commitment to seeing Dr. Olawepo-Hashim emerge

as president in 2027, insisting that his leadership would place Nigeria on the path of development, peace and progress. The support groups are the Gbenga Hashim Solidarity Movement, led by Hajiya A’isha Mustapha; Gbenga Hashim Group (Party Structure), led by Miko Isyaku; Gbenga Hashim

Support Group, led by Khalifa Muhammad; and the Gbenga Hashim Vanguard. During the meetings, the groups passed votes of confidence on Dr. Hashim and appealed to their members and supporters to return to the grassroots to mobilise widespread support for his presidential bid.

IG Recommits to Capacity Building, Welfare-driven Police Force Olusegun Samuel inYenagoa

The Inspector-General of Police (IG), Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, has expressed his commitment to capacity building and welfare-driven interventions in the Nigeria Police Force. Egbetokun stated that police officers, who are mentally

sound and emotionally balanced, are better positioned to serve the public with professionalism, empathy, and restraint. The IG, who was represented by the Bayelsa State Police Commissioner, Iyama Daniel, made this known at the Specialised Training

Programme organised by the Nigeria Police Trust fund (NPTF) for officers and men of the state command. The training, with the theme, ‘Integrated Mental Health, Trauma-Informed Care and Emergency Response,’ is aimed at strengthening the psychological resilience,

emotional intelligence, and emergency response capacity of Police officers in the discharge of their constitutional duties. The IG, in his speech, expressed his continuous commitment to capacity building and welfare driven interventions in the Nigeria Police Force.

Further Hearing in N5.78bn EFCC Case against ex- Kwara Gov, Commissioner Stalled Hammed Shittu inIlorin

Kwara State High Court in Ilorin yesterday adjourned the continuation of the further hearing on the alleged diversion of N5.78billion by the immediate past governor of the state, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed and his former Finance Commissioner, Alhaji Ademola

Banu till February16, 2026. The court, however, ruled that the prosecuting agency, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Ilorin zonal office, failed to properly arranged the documents put forward for prosecution of the case. The duo have been standing trial over the alleged diversion

of the funds while in office and it was instituted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission( EFCC) Ilorin zonal office. At the court yesterday, the principal witness 6, Mr. Stanley Ojilebu, told the court how he wrote letters to the management of Skye Bank now Polaris Bank and that

of Guaranty Trust Bank(GTB) on the loans obtained by the state government to offset the payment of salaries of SUBEB teachers in the state. He said: “We requested for the statement of SUBEB account details, state government account, statement of account of merging grants of 2013 and 2014.

Cruxstone Unveils Nautica Rise to Redefine Coastal Living in Lagos Ayodeji Ake

Cruxstone Development and Investment Limited has unveiled Nautica Rise, a resort-inspired waterfront residential and hospitality development spanning 77,000 square metres along the Lekki Peninsula, just beyond the

new Lagos–Calabar Coastal Road. According to the Managing Director of Cruxstone Development and Investment Limited, Dr. Adetoro BankOmotoye, the project is conceived as a long-term coastal ecosystem that blends luxury living, leisure,

and sustainable investment value within one of Lagos’ fastest-growing waterfront corridors. He said: “Nautica Rise is not just a real estate project; it is a long-term commitment to redefining how coastal living is experienced in Lagos. We are creating a

destination that harmonises luxury, community, leisure, and investment value, while contributing meaningfully to job creation and economic growth. This development reflects our belief that great real estate must deliver both lifestyle excellence and enduring value.”

FRIDAY, JANUARY 9, 2026 • THISDAY

FRIDAYSPORTS

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

0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY

Super Eagles Train First Time in Marrakech, Osimhen, Lookman, Akor Vow Algeria Will Fall Duro Ikhazuagbe After the intervention of the Federal Government on another possible strike action by Super Eagles players over unpaid bonuses ahead of AFCON 2025 quarterfinal fixture against Algeria’s Desert Foxes on Saturday, the glory-seeking three -time African champions had their first training in Marrakech yesterday. The team flew from Fes where Eagles won all their previous four matches to Marrakech, praying to also have same luck here. According to the Media Officer of the Super Eagles, Promise Efoghe,

all the players featured in the training session supervised by coach Eric Chelle, who celebrated his first year in charge of the team yesterday. Nigeria’s twin-terrors Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, and new face Akor Adams, who is highly motivated by his first AFCON goal (against Mozambique in the Round of 16) and the steady recuperation of his mother, look too hot to handle for the 1990 and 2019 champions. Osimhen and Lookman were the driving force behind Nigeria’s runner-up accomplishment in Cote

d’Ivoire two years ago, and have proved equally impactful here with each netting three goals, while Lookman has five assists and Osimhen has one. However, the Algerians have their own pack of match-winners, who have proven over the years to be highly dependable and can eke out a result when it is least expected. Baghdad Bounedjah scored the

only goal of the 2019 Final against Senegal in Cairo, which handed Algeria their second AFCON trophy, and has remained one of the most potent strikers in the history of the Foxes. Captain Riyad Mahrez has turned out to be as brutally efficient as Rabah Madjer (who carried the nation on his shoulders as the North African country hosted and won the AFCON trophy in

1990), Lakhdar Belloumi and the nifty Abdelhafid Tasfaout. Ismael Bennacer is another tricky customer, though he operates from the midfield, and defender Ramy Bensebaini scored the only goal when the Fennecs pipped Nigeria in a friendly in Austria in October 2020. Adil Boulbina netted the scorcher that ended the hopes of Leopards of DR Congo, and the Super Eagles

must also beware of midfielders Ibrahim Maza and Hicham Boudaoui, as well as striker Anis Hadj-Moussa. Both countries, with five African titles between them, will throw everything into the encounter on Saturday as they seek a place in the last-4 of perhaps the biggest and most glamorous AFCON tournament in the competition’s 69-year history.

Lagos Assembly Confirms Oshodi as Chairman, LSSTF Board The Lagos State House of Assembly has confirmed Mr. Wahid Enitan Oshodi as Chairman of the Lagos State Sports Trust Fund (LSSTF) Board of Trustees, following his nomination by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. The confirmation followed the presentation of a screening report by the Chairman of the ad-hoc Committee, Hon. Fatai Mojeed, who led the exercise in line with Sections 106 and 192 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended). According to the report, the committee assessed the nominee based on the documentation of

his credentials, personal appearance, performance, and overall presentation during the screening. Members of the Assembly also raised questions, all of which Mr. Oshodi responded to satisfactorily. Hon. Mojeed noted that the committee reviewed previous nominations to the position and found Mr. Oshodi suitable and qualified for the role. Consequently, the committee unanimously recommended that the former Commissioner for Youth, Sports and Social Development be approved as Chairman of the Lagos State Sports Trust Fund (LSSTF) Board of Trustees.

Super Eagles had their first training in Marrakech yesterday on arrival from Fes. Nigeria will against train at the venue of the quarterfinal fixture with Algeria same time as when the matches will kickoff ....on Saturday

AFCON 2025 Quarterfinals Live on SuperSport Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions Coach The Super Eagles will continue their Africa Cup of Nations campaign on Saturday at 5:00 pm in Marrakesh, where they face Algeria in the quarter-finals. The match, alongside all AFCON games will be broadcast live on SuperSport on DStv and GOtv. Nigeria progressed to the last eight with the most emphatic result of the Round of 16, recording a 4–0 victory over Mozambique. Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams were all on the scoresheet, while Alex Iwobi controlled midfield proceedings in a performance

that reinforced the Super Eagles’ attacking depth. The quarter-final schedule begins on Friday, with Mali facing Senegal at 5:00 pm, followed by Cameroon against Morocco at 8:00 pm. On Saturday, Nigeria face Algeria before Egypt meet defending champions Ivory Coast at 8:00 pm. All quarter-final matches will be broadcast live on the SuperSport AFCON channel on DStv Channel 202 and GOtv Channel 59, with Open Access available to DStv Yanga and GOtv Jolli subscribers.

Plays Mind-game with Morocco

Tips the Atlas Lions to win today’s Q’final fixture in Rabat

Indomitable Lions Head Coach, David Pagou, has insisted that hosts Morocco are favourites to win their quarter-final fixture against his team. The two countries will battle for a place in the semi-final in Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat this afternoon. Pagou placed all the pressure on the shoulders of the Atlas Lions ahead of the encounter.

” Walid Regragui played in a World Cup semi-final, you can’t compare the incomparable. We’re going to try and challenge them,” Pagou said at a pre-match press conference. The coach also highlighted the individual difference between both teams. ” Morocco has the stars. Achraf Hakimi plays for PSG, he is the

best African player; there is no Cameroonian at that level,” he pointed out. Cameroon have won the AFCON title five times but he believes that Morocco have a stronger team at the moment. “ Morocco is the natural favorite, a World Cup semi-finalist. We would never say here that Cameroon is the favorite. We are playing the

host country, a big team. It will be a difficult match,”he added.

TODAY Mali v Senegal Cameroon v Morocco SATURDAY Algeria v Nigeria Egypt v Côte d’Ivoi

Goldberg Sets the Stage with Festival of Drums and Lights ahead of Algeria Clash As anticipation builds ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarter-final match between Nigeria and Algeria, Goldberg Lager Beer is once again placing fans at the heart of the football experience with the return of its Festival of Drums and Lights under the Our Beat, Our Gold campaign. The Super Eagles will be battling it out against the Desert Foxes on Saturday, 10 January, and Goldberg is set to host a major fan experience at the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Social Development (PAKO Field), Awe Close, Dopemu, Lagos.

The activation will open at 3:00 p.m., ahead of the 5:00 p.m. kick-off, giving fans enough time to soak in the atmosphere before the Super Eagles take on a familiar North African rival. While the Super Eagles prepare for what promises to be a tough quarter-final against Algeria, Goldberg’s focus remains on creating a space where Nigerians can come together, connect and express their shared love for football. Following the strong response recorded during Nigeria’s emphatic win over Mozambique, the brand is bringing back its Festival of Drums and Lights, a celebration

that blends football with music, culture and community spirit. The experience is designed to reflect the rhythm and emotion that surround Super Eagles match days. “Our Beat, Our Gold is about how Nigerians live football,” said Kunle Aroyehun, Senior Brand Manager, Goldberg. “It’s in the sounds, the drums, the lights, the conversations and the belief we share. With the Festival of Drums and Lights, we are simply creating the right environment for fans to feel that connection as the Super Eagles push for a fourth AFCON title.”

ALL FOR SUPER EAGLES...

Hosts and hostesses of the Goldberg Fans Viewing Centres reviewing plans ahead the Nigeria versus Algeria AFCON 2025 cracker ...today

T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, JANUARY 9, 2026

BACK PAGE CONTINUATION A MISREPRESENTATION OF TONY ANENIH

declarations that “Under him, the PDP was both an election-winning machine and a widely dominant political party”. “Would the PDP be where it is today if it still had men like Anenih, or individuals who can play the various roles he played for the party when it really mattered? Just look at the PDP today”. I think it is quite a stretch to attribute the success of the pdp at the 1999, 2003, 2007 and 2011 presidential elections or any of them in particular, to his leadership. What is not an exaggeration was that he was an effective enforcer of whatever decisions were taken by his principals, hence the befitting sobriquet of Mr Fix it. He was exercising the delegated powers and authority of superiors who were nearly all conveniently incumbent presidents. All through his career, from the National Party of Nigeria, NPN days, there was not one single instance where he was a member of any political party other than the ruling party. In his depiction of Anenih as larger than life, Okey wrote “It was Anenih who, during the Second Republic, chaired the initially questionable and relatively unpopular National Party of Nigeria (NPN) in the old Bendel State and transformed it into the incredibly popular party with which he defeated the no less popular Governor Professor Ambrose Alli at the time”. Yet we all know that the said ‘victory of NPN in the governorship election in the then Bendel state was no more than a local instance of a generalised deployment of the “landslide and bandwagon” ideology of the party in the 1983 general elections to which Anenih acted as local enforcer. In 2007, when he was much more powerful, his attempt to pull the same trick in Edo state, ultimately ended in failure, when the courts abbreviated the short lived governorship career of his protege, Monday Osunbor. Okey asserted “His role and impact were obvious in the building of what turned out at the time to be Nigeria’s first people-owned and real national party, the Social Democratic Party (SDP). Consider how he deftly facilitated the political fortunes of his friend, whom he literally took by the hand and sold him across the nation as the SDP presidential flag bearer”. There was no doubt he played a significant role in the consolidation of SDP but he did so as an agent of his godfather at the time namely Shehu Yaradua. And only Okey would know how “he literally took Moshood Abiola by the hand and sold him across the nation…”. To the contrary, what was public knowledge about the role of Anenih as SDP national chairman in 2003, was his intrumentality to the internal subversion of Abiola’s June 12 1993 presidential victory. Okey spoke of how “Anenih helped to quell the somewhat over-ambitious aspirations of former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, who wanted to unseat his principal, Olusegun Obasanjo”. The truth of that unfortunate chapter is certainly more complicated. Regardless,

Late Anenih with or without Anenih, there was no chance Atiku would have unseated Obasanjo in 2003. If we are looking for those that were consequential in ensuring that Obasanjo prevailed, maybe we should be looking in the direction of hard ball players like General Theophilus Danjuma who read the riot act to the conspiring governors. The truth about Anenih is that he was a connoisseur of power who knew how to position himself as indispensable to the quests of his sponsors to capture and retain political power, mostly incumbent rulers. Rather than attribute to him an autonomy of influence he did not possess, he was as strong as his superiors wanted him to be. His political career reflects a dependency on the existing power structures, akin to the role of a consigliere in organized crime—strategically positioned but ultimately subordinate to those in command . Several attempts at understanding the contemporary status and situation of the Nigerian political party system have been ruling the waves. I should now make a contribution. I begin with the inference from the last presidential election that: were the Labour party and the Peoples Democratic Party, (as represented by Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar), to team together in a unified presidential ticket, they would have carried the day and defeated the presidential candidate (now incumbent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu) of the All

Progressives Congress, APC, and vice versa. The logic is quite persuasive albeit mostly pushed by those eager to rationalise and legitimise the outcome of the 2023 presidential election as inevitable, with or without rigging. They argue that it is a matter of simple arithmetic and self-evident in the fact that the declared winner only won with 37% of the total votes cast, while the balance of 63% was shared between Obi and Atiku who individually posted a lower margin to Tinubu’s figures. As a ringside player with a vested interest in the election, I have more than a passing interest in this summation. The argument is predicated on an assumption that is not valid. Obi’s appeal and recognition stemmed from his individual candidacy, which would likely diminish if he were to run as a vice-presidential candidate. His unique connection with voters would not translate effectively in a coalition context, especially considering regional and religious sentiments. He would have lost his appeal to the crucial younger generation bloc of voters styled the ‘Obidients.’ I boast better access and insight into what truly transpired at the 2023 elections but I have no interest in (re)litigating the fraudulent result declared and certified by the so-called Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC. Moreover, the notion that Nigerian political parties function like conventional political entities is misleading. Nigerian po-

litical parties evolved as vehicles for ethnic mobilization and rough and ready SPVs for contesting elections rather than genuine platforms for democratic engagement. This reality traces back to the colonial history of Nigeria, where political parties emerged as extensions of ethnic and cultural unions . The pace for this identity and role was set by the British decolonisation formula of divide and rule and the contending large scale pluralities of the constituent regions. The Nigerian political elite responded to this stimulus with the formation of political parties that were essentially the alter ego of ethno cultural unions. ‘On March 21, 1951, for instance, the Egbé Omo Odùduwà set up a political party called the Action Group. The party was to serve as the vehicle for realizing its primary objective of mobilizing the Yoruba under one political umbrella. The Action Group was therefore formed to implement the ideals and objectives of the Egbé Omo Odùduwà; and was led by Chief Obafemi Awolowo’. Within the context of seeking political power in an ethno regional predicated Nigerian politics, it would have been unrealistic of the Egbe omo Oduduwa as an emergent political party not to rouse and magnify the urgency of the ethnic mobilization of the Yoruba. Formed in June 1943, the Northern Peoples Congress, NPC (which made no effort to disguise its interchangeability with Jamiyaar Mutanen Arewa, went straight for a nomenclature that marked out its geopolitical identity) was the dominant political party in the Northern region from the 1950s until the military coup of 1966. It similarly metamorphosed from the cultural organisation earlier identified as Jamiyaar Mutanen Arewa, ‘The National Council of Nigerian Citizens, NCNC, had its core and organic support in the Ibo State Union (later Igbo State Union) a powerful pan-Igbo organization (1948-1966) whose focus was Igbo unity, cultural preservation, socio-economic development, and played a key role in Nigerian nationalism’. The dysfunction of overcentralisation of power, a unique and debilitating feature of Nigerian federalism, has repeatedly resulted in the syndrome of the trend towards one party dictatorship and the attendant crisis. The phenomenon was at play in the first republic with the formation of the grand Nigerian National Alliance, NNA, by Ahmadu Bello and the NPC. The history repeated itself in the second republic with the overreach of the National Party of Nigeria, NPN. The PDP was similarly trending in the same direction (as encapsulated in the boast that they would rule Nigeria for sixty years). Tinubu and the APC are now in the thick of enacting the same scenario. The ongoing political dynamics suggest that without significant constitutional reforms, the trend towards one-party dominance will persist, echoing the patterns of past political eras .

ADC MOVE: OBI BITES THE BULLET, APC PANICS probably be condemned by history as THE BEST LEADER WHO NEVER LED! Nigeria’s own Alexander Hamilton of sorts. Again, whatever choice he made, he would alienate the OBiDIENTS movement, his teeming ‘cult’ followers across the country.

PROMETHEUS BOUND AGAIN: It’s strongly believed that the best Obi would get in the ADC would be the running mate slot... behind Atiku Abubakar! Die hard Obi supporters like Professor Pat Utomi and Aisha Yusufu have already vowed to disown Obi should he play second fiddle to any candidate. These are the signature supporters. Millions of his followers and acolytes across the country would be stricken. Obi for them is not only their president already, he represents, a certain Prometheus, the Greek god who beat all odds to light up the earth and liberate hapless earthlings. But the goodly god was met with a torrid fate. He was eternally bound to a rock to pine away but was eventually freed by Hercules. Peter to his large followers, is a paradigm shift for Nigeria. He is believed to be the change Nigeria has awaited for 66 years. They were actually on the cusp of stealing the thunder from Nigeria’s old order in 2023 but the tide was turned against them at the nick of time.

The old warhorses “glitched” the process at the last minute and practically had to force back the hand of the clock.

WILL ATIKU BUDGE:? Not likely. Not with a Philharmonic of marabouts chanting the majesty of Atiku’s position day and night. He’s already gone beyond the ADC primary. He’s probably at the stage of making a running mate deal with Obi. Pundits believe only Atiku can wrench power from the sitting President, Tinubu. With the north much disillusioned with the present administration, they would easily vote en masse for their own. The idea of power returning to the north would also be a great advantage in this calculation. While Peter Obi would of course, lose a chunk of OBiDIENTS, a good number would tarry if convinced that Atiku is the stepping stone to their objective which is ultimately: the making of a new Nigeria!

WHY WON’T ATIKU BACK OBI TO THE DIADEM? Simple: Atiku is not a democrat; he’s a powermonger who seeks to bear the title, ‘President’ at all cost. Otherwise, with a strong backing from Atiku and the entire coalition,

Obi will easily win a historic pan-Nigerian mandate in 2027. Apart from Obi’s magical nationwide appeal, power rotation also favours the southeast. This is not to mention Obi’s vow to do only one term of four years so power would return to the north in 2031.

RULING APC IN PAINS: As the two major contenders in the 2023 polls come together, ruling APC has been reeling in severe pains. There’s no doubt that Obi and Atiku on one card would be almost impossible to beat. Presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga was first to make a painful yelp hours after Obi’s announcement. He sounded as if he was struck by a thunderbolt in his hurried, disjointed press release. Few days ago, it was Festus Keyamo, Aviation Minister who gripped about Obi playing second fiddle as if that has become a criminal offence. As if Obi is the cause of the mire that’s aviation in Nigeria under Keyamo’s watch. APC is surely in a bad place right now!

AS OBI CHOOSES REALPOLITIK... Peter Obi will need a bit of hardshell to convince his adherents that joining ADC

or even playing second to obdurate Atiku is the best option available. He set the tone in his grand Enugu speech: “Let history record that Nigeria’s turning point begins here and now. Together, with courage, unity, and resolve, we can build a new, productive, and inclusive Nigeria.” Finally, has Obi bitten the bullet or is he stooping to conquer? Time will tell.

LAST LINE: Leaders Continue The Revel...

t a time of roiling poverty, Nigeria’s leaders, especially public officials, seem to develop a special fervour for obscene living. A viral post during the year-end season suggests that about a dozen governors were holidaying abroad. The President too seems to be more at home in Europe and Arabia than in Nigeria recently, (nigh every Nigerian wants to flee, actually.) Meanwhile, Nigeria remains on tenterhooks. Hunger is still pervasive. Insecurity is not abating, jobs are not being created just as the flailing economy enjoys no reprieve. Let our leaders quit politicking and junketing. Let’s sit up ###

T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, JANUARY 9, 2026

Price: N400

BACK PAGE LEAD PHOTOGRAPH

E-REGISTRATION: MBAH DISPLAYS HIS TEMPORARY APC MEMBERSHIP CARD...

Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, displays his temporary membership card after flagging off the Enugu State edition of the All Progressives Congress membership e-registration exercise at Owo, Nkanu East LGA, Enugu State, Thursday.

AKINOSUNTOKUN A Misrepresentation of Tony Anenih DIALOGUE WITH NIGERIA

“W

ith the migration, last week alone, of two more state governors from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party [PDP] to the ruling All Progressives Congress [APC], the latter has already recorded a landslide victory more than a year before the 2027 general elections and is on course to record a political earthquake in the upcoming elections. Whether that is historically safe, is another matter. In summary, PDP that emerged from the 2023 elections with twelve state governors, is now down to three”-Mahmud Jega The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP is in crisis today not because, as my friend and colleague, Okey Ikechukwu, proposes, it lacks the presence of a man like Anenih. This is a total misreading of the evolution of the Nigerian political party system and its

Late Tony Anenih culmination into the repetitive trend towards one party dictatorship.

STEVEOSUJI

akin.osuntokun@thisdaylive.com

Anenih, a politically astute former police officer, leveraged his career to forge a national network of connections, effectively using the police force as a means to navigate the political sphere. His approach has often been characterized by a style reminiscent of political maneuvering seen in organized crime, fostering relationships that served his interests . His pedigree in the police institution provided a fertile ground for keeping tabs on influential or potentially influential individuals and the cultivation of a secondary career in mafia-style political racketeering. It is a misunderstanding and exaggeration to imply that Anenih would have made a difference to the crisis that has typically buffeted the PDP. Ever the keen and disciplined political opportunist, his political acumen was always coupled with opportunism; he would likely have shifted allegiance to the APC in

2015 had he remained politically active. Ask Shehu Yaradua, Ibrahim Babangida, Olusegun Obasanjo, Umaru Yaradua and Goodluck Jonathan. Without the shield and protective custody of incumbent power, he certainly would not have gone far in national political reckoning. The observation that “his life-long exposure to human affairs and deep knowledge of the country, with relationships that spanned geographical, religious and other boundaries, gave him great advantages when and where it mattered. His capacity for strategic engagement, especially from the angle of power politics, as distinct from being in political office, gave him an aura that was peculiarly his own” is correct. Of doubtful validity are such fanciful Continued on page 39

EXPRESSO

ADC Move: Obi Bites The Bullet, APC Panics

Rock and a Hard Place: It was a hard decision. But it had to be made, and very quickly too. And on the 31st of December, 2025, Peter Obi decided to formally join Nigeria’s coalition political group, the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Let’s say he bit the bullet. It’s symbolic he chose the last day of the year. It’s even more so that the venue had to be Enugu, the regional seat of the Igbo. And more remarkable, for the first time since Obi disrupted the political equation of Nigeria about five years ago, notable Igbo leaders are arrayed behind him. At the Enugu declaration, there were five former governors of the Southeast in his corner; several serving senators and other respectable Igbo leaders and prominent figures like Chief Simeon Okeke, Prof. Pat Utomi and Osita Ogbu and Sen. Eyinnaya Abaribe, to name

Peter Obi a few. There was also ADC chairman, David

Mark and former governors Tambuwal and Osarienren of Sokoto and Edo respectively; among others. In an arid political era, that was an assemblage of the cream of the crop of Igbo politics today. The gathering speaks volumes; for once, there seems to be a meeting of minds of Igbo leaders and all facing one direction and pursuing one goal. It must have taken some doing to mesh together, this caucus! It’s even more salutary that they are queueing behind one of their own. Igboland have never enjoyed this size of unity of purpose and this kind of ime-obi (elders conclave) camaraderie for a long time. It seems like a good omen for Peter Obi. But the matter is not so straightforward. Recall that this column had in a recent edition

urged Obi to shun the ADC. The reasons were simple. Obi had been boxed between a rock and a hard place, so to speak. While rampaging President Bola Tinubu and his APC had devised a scorch-earth strategy to capture and close the entire Nigeria political space on the one hand, the coalition ADC on its part, already has the imprimatur of Atiku Abubakar stamped on it. This makes the party impregnable to other aspirants. Therefore, as at 31st December, Peter Obi actually had two choices: either to quit politics honourably or join the ADC where he has a slim chance of getting a presidential ticket; where he may be consigned to the role of a bit player. Whatever choice Obi made, he would Continued on page 39

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