SATURDAY 4TH OCTOBER 2025

Cardoso: Reforms Have Sparked Global Investors’ Renewed Appetite for Nigeria

Adebayo Ogunlesi: Nigeria now exciting to investors Indicates interest in gas, aviation, renewable energy, maritime sectors

Nume Ekeghe and Dike Onwuamaeze

Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, yesterday, said Nigeria’s

consistent policy stance and transparency reforms in the foreign exchange (FX) market

have strengthened investor confidence, spurred renewed interest from global players, and supported the accretion of the country’s external reserves. He said this yesterday at

Concerns Mount over Rising Diabetes Cases Amid Hike in Drug Prices

Sunday Ehigiator

Health experts in Nigeria have expressed concern over the surging cases of

Continued on page 5

Jonathan: I Thought Buhari Would End Boko Haram Since They Once Chose Him as Negotiator

Reveals Chibok girls’ abduction permanent scar on his administration Shehu Garba faults former president, declares terrorist group never nominated Buhari as mediator In First Private Investor JV, Dangote Begins $2.5bn Urea Fertiliser Manufacturing

NIGERIA'S JOURNEY AND BOKO HARAM CONUNDRUM...

In First Private Investor JV, Dangote Begins $2.5bn

Fertiliser Manufacturing Plant in Ethiopia

Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Peter Uzoho in Lagos

In a record-breaking joint venture partnership between an indigenous African private investor and a government, the Dangote Group has taken its investment on the continent to a greater level with the commencement of a $2.5 billion joint urea fertiliser plant in Gode, Ethiopia, with a capacity to produce three

Alex Enumah, Linus Aleke, Boluwatife Enome and Nancy Mbamalu

Former President Goodluck

Jonathan yesterday expressed surprise that his successor, late former President Muhammadu Buhari, was unable to bring the Boko Haram insurgency to an end, recalling that at the height of the conflict, the extremist group once nominated the deceased to negotiate on their behalf, a development Jonathan said had raised hopes that he would be able to resolve the crisis quickly when he assumed office.

Jonathan also admitted that the abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls in Borno State in 2014 remains a permanent scar on his administration.

But in a swift reaction, former

diabetes in the country, warning that soaring drug prices are putting life-saving treatment out of reach for millions of patients.

Their concerns came as a World Health Organisation (WHO) report had shown that the number of adults living with diabetes has quadrupled over the past three decades, with nearly half unable to access the medicines they need.

Once regarded as a condition of the affluent, diabetes is now increasingly common among both the rich and poor, in rural and urban areas alike, and among

million metric tons of the product per annum (mtpa).

This emerged as Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North Senatorial District, yesterday, declared his support for Dangote Refinery in the heat of its disagreement with the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN).

Africa's richest man and President/Group Chief

spokesperson to late Buhari, Mallam Garba Shehu, faulted the submission by Buhari's predecessor that the deceased was nominated by Boko Haram insurgents to negotiate peace with his government.

Shehu, in a statement yesterday, described as false the position of ex-President Jonathan on his former principal, saying at no time did Boko Haram nominate Buhari as their mediator in their meeting with the federal government then.

Jonathan, who made these remarks at the unveiling of the book, "Scars: Nigeria's Journey and the Boko Haram Conundrum," by former Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor (Rtd), in Abuja, a ceremony which turned out to be another command theater, seeking solution to the perennial

younger age groups.

According to Professor Zubairu Ilyasu of Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, “more than 11 million Nigerians are living with diabetes, many of them undiagnosed.”

The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) puts prevalence at nearly six per cent of the adult population, but doctors warn the true figure is higher because of weak surveillance.

“The numbers we are seeing are alarming,” said Dr Olufemi Fasanmade, professor of medicine and consultant endocrinologist

Executive Officer of Dangote Industries Limited, Alhaji Aliko Dangote disclosed the latest investment in Ethiopia during his speech at the groundbreaking ceremony of the project in the country.

Dangote said the project, which is a partnership between the Dangote Group and the Ethiopian Investment Holdings (EIH), the strategic investment arm of the Government of Ethiopia,

insecurity that has engulfed the nation in the last 16 years.

At the event, Bola Tinubu restated that his administration would not rest until insecurity was defeated.

Also, former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former National Security Adviser (NSA), Major General Babagana Monguno and others regretted that the Boko Haram menace seems to have defied all solutions of four administrations.

Speaking at the occasion, Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, called for a whole-of-society approach to tackling Boko Haram insurgency, warning that Boko Haram cannot be defeated by military might alone.

The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’adu Abubakar III, weighing in on the security

at Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH).

“We now diagnose patients in their thirties and forties with complications that used to appear only later in life. It reflects how lifestyle changes, urbanisation, and poor diets are fueling this epidemic.”

The WHO’s 2024 Global Diabetes Report noted that cases have quadrupled worldwide since 1990, rising from about seven per cent of adults to nearly 14 per cent in 2022.

That translates to more than 800 million people living with the condition, of whom almost

would make the country the biggest agricultural nation on the African continent.

"I am delighted to welcome you all to this historic groundbreaking ceremony of the $2.5 Billion, 3 Million Metric Tonne Urea Fertiliser Production Complex here, in Gode, Ethiopia. This new plant is a partnership between the Dangote Group and Ethiopian Investment Holdings (EIH), the strategic

situation in the country urged Nigerians to live in peace, respect one another, and correct misconceptions about Islam and jihad, stressing that the term does not mean killing non-Muslims but striving to be the best in all endeavours.

Speaking further, Jonathan stressed that the late Buhari was the preferred choice of Boko Haram terrorists to negotiate with the government during his tenure as Nigeria’s President. He also noted that the issue of Boko Haram was far more complex than often presented.

He recalled that his administration established several committees to explore peaceful solutions to the Boko Haram insurgency.

“I felt it would have been easier for him, when he became President, to negotiate with

450 million remain untreated.

Nigeria, according to the WHO, is among the most vulnerable countries, with millions going without essential medicines despite rising diagnosis rates.

“Diabetes has become one of the defining health challenges of our time,” WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said.

“We cannot stand by while life-saving medicines remain out of reach for millions. The time for governments to act decisively is now.”

In Nigeria, however, even as awareness of the disease grows, treatment remains out

investment arm of the Government of Ethiopia", he said.

"It is a new dawn, marking the first time, a private investor from Africa is entering into a partnership with an African country to build an industrial complex" Dangote stressed.

He stated that the partnership with Ethiopian Investment Holdings represents a pivotal moment

them to surrender — but they persisted,” he said.

He continued: “During one of the committee sessions, Boko Haram nominated Buhari to lead their team in negotiations with the government. So I thought, if they had nominated him, then when he took over as President, it could have provided an easier path to engage them and get them to lay down their arms. But the insurgency persisted.”

Jonathan said Buhari’s inability to end the insurgency once in office demonstrated that the situation was more complicated than widely believed.

According to him, “If you conduct research and interview people, you’ll only get part of the story — not the full story of Boko Haram. I was there. Boko Haram started in 2009

of reach for many families because of the soaring cost of drugs.

Insulin, discovered more than a century ago but still the backbone of diabetes care, is priced well beyond what most households can afford.

A vial costs between N7,000 and N12,000 depending on the brand and location, and many patients require two or three vials each month.

This means that a patient may need N30,000 to N35,000 monthly just to survive, in a country where the minimum wage is barely enough to feed the stomach against hunger in a month.

in their shared vision to industrialize Africa and achieve food security across the continent. According to Dangote, the strategic location of Gode, combined with Ethiopia's abundant natural gas resources from the Hilal and Calub reserves, makes this an ideal location for what will become one of the world's largest fertilizer complexes.

when I was Vice President. I became President in 2010 and spent five years battling the insurgency until I left office. I thought that after I left, within a reasonable time, General Buhari would wipe them out. But even today, Boko Haram is still there. The issue is far more complex than it is often presented.” Reflecting on his presidency, Jonathan said the 2014 abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls remains a permanent scar on his administration. He expressed hope that, in the future, some leaders of the insurgent group might document their experiences — much like key figures from the Nigerian Civil War — to provide a clearer understanding of their motivations.

Continued on page 8

The newer GLP-1 receptor agonists, which regulate blood sugar and reduce complications, cost upwards of N80,000 a month, making them accessible only to the wealthy.

Speaking with THISDAY, a Lagos-based Diabetologist, Dr. Aisha Kareem, noted that, “I have patients who choose between feeding their families and buying insulin.

“Some stretch one vial for two months, taking half doses. Others simply stop treatment. By the time they come back to the clinic, they are in diabetic coma or with kidney failure. It is heartbreaking.

CARDOSO: REFORMS HAVE SPARKED GLOBAL INVESTORS’ RENEWED APPETITE FOR NIGERIA

CBN Governor’s Lecture held at the Lagos Business School, where he challenged young Nigerians to see themselves not merely as spectators in the economic debate but as the very subjects upon which the country’s future stability and prosperity depend.

This comes as renowned global investor and Chairman of Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), Adebayo Ogunlesi, described Nigeria as an increasingly attractive destination for international investment, citing recent economic reforms and government-backed initiatives

that have reshaped the business climate.

Also yesterday, the CBN’s decision to assume full control of the Nigerian Fixed Income Market from November 2025, received support from analysts who spoke with THISDAY. The financial market analysts held the view that the move would strengthen transparency, restore regulatory clarity, and sharpen the effectiveness of monetary policy transmission.

Speaking on the theme “Next Generation Leadership in Monetary Policy & Nation Building,” the lecture to mark the launch of what the CBN

described as its Knowledge Acceleration and Thought Leadership Series, a platform to bridge policy and practice while cultivating values-driven leadership.

Turning to reforms under his administration, the CBN Governor noted that clearing the inherited forex backlog was a decisive move that restored credibility and signalled to markets that the Bank was serious about reforms. According to him, trust in Nigeria’s financial system has grown stronger because promises were kept.

“If we expect people to

continue to trust and invest in our economy, you’ve got to keep your promises. That particular action contributed in no small way to the rise in foreign exchange reserves we have been able to accomplish,” he added.

On the forex market, Cardoso highlighted the adoption of a B-Matching electronic trading system, which he described as a game-changer. The platform, he said, has ensured greater transparency by allowing all participants to view and transact at the same marketdetermined rates, reducing

information asymmetry that previously created distortions.

“In the past, some had access to certain information while others didn’t. Now, with the B-Matching system, that gap has been significantly reduced. The market has almost become a perfect market, and this openness builds the trust investors require when coming into our economy,” he said.

Reflecting on progress since his assumption of office, Cardoso stressed that consistent policies and firm commitment to the CBN’s mandate have placed Nigeria

on a stronger footing.

“Two years later, consistent messaging, consistent policies, doing all the right things, not compromising in your mandate, has taken us to a good place,” he said.

According to him, the evidence of renewed confidence is clear in reports by international rating agencies, multilateral institutions such as the World Bank, and feedback from global banks. He pointed out that top investment firms which had previously stayed on the sidelines, are now revisiting Nigeria with keen interest.

LAGOS POWERBOAT CHAMPIONSHIP...

AGF Fagbemi: Technology in Justice Not Luxury, But Necessity

The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has underscored the transformative role of technology in the legal system, describing it as a necessity for ensuring swift, accurate, and accessible justice.

He made the remarks at the Distinguished Alumni Lecture of the University of Jos, delivered by him, titled ‘The Nigerian Justice System in a Digital Age: Opportunities, Challenges and the Road Ahead’.

At the Lecture, which attracted a cross-section of eminent personalities from the legal and academic communities, Fagbemi recalled that the turning point came during the COVID-19 pandemic when the Chief Justice of Nigeria introduced practice directions for virtual hearings.

He said that since then some state judiciaries have adopted innovations such as e-filing and digital cause lists, while others still rely on traditional paper processes.

According to him, the legal profession is gradually embracing a hybrid model where physical and virtual processes complement each other.

“The lesson is clear: technology in justice is not a luxury but a necessity in today’s interconnected world. However, its adoption must be deliberate, inclusive, and rooted in the core values of justice. Nigeria must not copy blindly, but adopt wisely,” the Attorney General emphasised.

In his remarks at the event, the Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, called on the people of the state to come out en masse and give a rousing welcome to President Bola Tinubu, who will be visiting the state on Saturday (today) for the burial ceremony of the late mother

Kano Governor Writes NSA, Seeks State Commissioner of Police Removal

Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

The crisis between the Kano State Government and the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Bakori, has taken a new turn as the state government has written a formal complaint letter to the office of the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, against the CP.

During the 65th Independence Day celebration, Governor Yusuf accused the CP of boycotting the national parade, an action he described as "unacceptable, and a betrayal of the trust of both the people and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

"I therefore, wish to seize the opportunity to call on the President, whom we know as no nonsense man. to remove the commissioner of Police from Kano today.

"On behalf of all of you I am writing a petition against him through the office of the National Security Adviser for onward submission to president of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu," the governor stated. However, the police chief did not comment on the allegations, but a top police source familiar with the issue explained that the matter went beyond the parade, as it was already public knowledge that the Independence Day parade had been cancelled.

He alleged that the state governor has long neglected the police and other security agencies in the state, citing examples of how he clashed with three past Commissioners of Police during his two years in office.

of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda.

The governor stressed the importance of unity, peace, and harmony in advancing the development of the state and Nigeria.

He said, “Tomorrow, we will be receiving Mr. President in Jos, Plateau State, as he comes to honour our late mother, the mother of my dear brother, the National

Chairman of the APC. I am confident that Plateau people will give Mr. President a warm and rousing welcome. I believe that his visit will afford him a deeper appreciation of Plateau and its people.”

He reiterated his conviction that Plateau State remains one of the best places to live in Nigeria, endowed with rich human and natural resources yet to be fully harnessed.

“We cannot realise our full potential if we continue to

pull one another down. We must remain our brothers’ keepers and work collectively to bring Plateau to the place of honour that God has destined for us,” he remarked.

Mutfwang also commended Fagbemi for delivering a thought-provoking lecture, describing him as a “fountain of knowledge.”

He noted that the lecture, presented with a blend of practical experience and deep reflection, offered valuable

insights into how technology is shaping justice delivery in Nigeria. He appealed to the Attorney General to support the advancement of competent and patriotic alumni of the University of Jos into leadership positions at the national level, while urging the university to extend a hand of mentorship to Plateau State University, Bokkos, where he serves as visitor.

Stakeholders: Nigeria’s Power Sector Still Struggling Despite Reforms

Stakeholders in the power sector yesterday agreed that despite reforms in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI), the sector has continued to struggle, barely able to take half of total capacity to Nigerian homes.

Delivering his lecture at the 29th edition of the October Lecture Series of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) in Abuja, a former President of the Society, Tasiu Gidari-Wudil, maintained that Nigeria’s electricity sector remains far from achieving the goals set out in the 2005 reform law, despite nearly

two decades of policy changes and privatisation.

Gidari-Wudil’s paper was titled: ‘Total Challenges Facing Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa: The Transformation of Our Power Sector’. The paper examined the reforms between 2005 and 2023, highlighting the gains, setbacks, and lessons for future policy.

He noted that Nigeria’s installed capacity grew from 6,000 megawatts in 2005 to over 13,000 megawatts by 2023, but average generation remained below 50 per cent of capacity due to gas shortages, transmission bottlenecks, and inefficiencies

across the value chain.

According to him, persistent infrastructural gaps, financial unsustainability, and consumer dissatisfaction continue to undermine progress in the sector.

“Reform is a long-term process requiring sustained commitment beyond political cycles,” he said, adding that strong regulatory institutions, transparent tariffs, and meaningful stakeholder engagement are crucial if Nigeria hopes to meet its power needs.

In an interview after the lecture, Gidari-Wudil stressed that progress has been slow and far below expectations. He blamed political interference, regulatory

weaknesses, and government failures as key setbacks.

“It’s not as significant as envisaged by the crafters of the policy in 2000 and the law in 2005. By now, according to the Electric Power Sector Reform Act, we should have been far beyond 30,000 megawatts.

“The initial buyers of the utilities were given service-level agreements, but the government failed to deliver on its part. The companies also failed, leading to market shortfalls now running into trillions of naira,” he explained.

The engineer also pointed to deep-rooted issues within

JONATHAN: I THOUGHT BUHARI WOULD END BOKO HARAM SINCE THEY ONCE CHOSE HIM AS NEGOTIATOR

Jonathan explained, “One of the major scars on my government — and it will remain with me, as Bishop Kukah said, no plastic or cosmetic surgeon can remove it — is the issue of the Chibok girls. It is a scar I will die with. But perhaps, later, more details may emerge — and that too relates to Boko Haram. What did they really want? Our chairman once raised the issue when he interviewed some of them, and they offered certain perspectives. I pray that one day, some of the Boko Haram

leaders may become literate enough to document what they have done, so people can truly understand their objectives. It’s similar to how participants in the Nigerian Civil War later wrote about their roles.”

Shehu Garba Faults Jonathan

However, Garba Shehu, in a detailed response to Jonathan, stated: "We are compelled to make a response to a terrible statement made on the late president Muhammadu Buhari

by his predecessor in office, President Goodluck Ebele

Jonathan, to the effect that Boko Haram had nominated him to represent them in a dialogue with government.

"If this is a campaign statement towards his bid for the presidency in 2027, we want to say to him that “Mr. Jonathan, you are making a false start.”

"Muhammed Yusuf or Abubakar Shekau, the deceased leaders of the Boko Haram terrorist group, never nominated Muhammadu

Buhari for any such role. In fact, Shekau routinely denounced and threatened Buhari, and their ideologies were in direct opposition.

"In 2014, Muhammadu Buhari escaped a bomb attack on his life by Boko Haram in Kaduna, in which his personal staff suffered various degrees of injury.

"Buhari's campaigns focused on fighting Boko Haram and restoring security to Nigeria whenever he became president, putting him in direct opposition to the terrorist group's leader.

UTICA CAPITAL LAUNCHES SEC-APPROVED FILM FUND...

L-R: Ms. Adebola Adesida of ALP NG & Co; Mr. Kunle Olorunfemi of First Bank of Nigeria Limited; Ms. Toni Sanni of

Commission, Mr. John Briggs; MD, Utica Capital Limited, Mr. Ola Belgore; Chairman, Utica Capital Limited, Dr. Adesegun Akin-Olugbade; Member, Investment

Abimbola Kasim of FSDH Capital Limited; Ms. Adesola Aje of STL Trustees Limited, and Mr. Adewale Arikawe of Cardinalstone Trustees, during the launch of the

capital fund to support the growth of Nigeria’s film industry in Lagos…recently

Court Orders Police to Suspend Tinted Glass Permit Enforcement

Sylvester Idowu in Warri and Linus Aleke in Abuja

The enforcement of the tinted glass permit by the Nigeria Police Force suffered a setback yesterday, as the Federal High Court sitting in Warri, Delta State, ordered the Force and the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to suspend the enforcement of the requirement for vehicle owners to obtain such permits.

The court further directed the police and the IGP to maintain the status quo and respect judicial processes, pending further proceedings in the case.

At the hearing of Suit No. FHC/WR/CS/103/2025—filed by legal practitioner John Aikpokpo-Martins against the Inspector General of Police and the Nigeria Police Force—the court issued an interim order restraining enforcement measures.

Aikpokpo-Martins brought the case to challenge the legality of the renewed enforcement of tinted glass permits.

In its interim order, the court instructed the police authorities to “respect judicial processes pending further proceedings in the matter.”

Kunle Edun, a Senior

Wike Approves Total Rehabilitation of 40 FCT Schools

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Minister Nyesom Wike, has said that 40 schools will undergo total rehabilitation in the territory beginning from next week.

He disclosed this yesterday at the flagging off of the construction of Transit Way to connect Central Area with Wuse District.

The minister said the renovation would add to no less than 70 schools that were ongoing, stating that “almost 45 have been completed and well finished. And then I said again, we will begin to look into the issue of health.”

He said the ongoing spate of flag off and inauguration in the FCT will continue till October 20, while from next month, the administration will start the inauguration on

some other projects that will improve the landscape of the FCT and are considered vital to the growth and the economy of the territory.

“When you are doing your work, people may hate you and they may not like the job. All those who hate us are using the roads. All those who hate us will use the water. All those who hate us, they will use the street lights. It is our opportunity to provide for them and nobody will stop us, that is why they are looking for an opportunity to come closer to us. And because we are very strict, the only way they can come closer to us is to blackmail us. Unfortunately, we don't know the meaning of blackmail. There is no blackmail in our dictionary. The only thing we do in our dictionary is to work and work to the satisfaction of our people,” Wike said.

Advocate of Nigeria, who led the legal team representing the applicant, confirmed the court’s decision to journalists.

He described the directive as a significant step towards upholding the rule of law while the substantive issues are being addressed.

In April, the Nigeria Police Force resumed the issuance of tinted glass permits nationwide

through the Police Specialised Services Automation Project, having suspended the scheme in 2022.

The move reignited public criticism, with many motorists expressing concerns over alleged harassment, extortion at checkpoints, and the perceived unfairness of requiring permits for factory-fitted tinted windows.

The Inspector General of

Police initially set a deadline of 12 August for motorists to obtain the permits but later extended it to 2 October.

The Police defended the policy as lawful, citing the Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Tinted Glass) Act of 1991 and national security considerations.

However, rights groups have challenged its constitutionality, describing it as exploitative and discriminatory. Last Tuesday, the Delta State Police Command announced its intention to begin full enforcement of regulations concerning tinted vehicle glass across the state, starting Thursday, 2 October 2025. The Command stated that the enforcement would align with existing federal laws and directives.

Omisore Mourns Arise News Anchor, Somtochukwu Maduagwu

Prosper Taiwo

Former Osun State deputy governor and Senator, Iyiola Omisore, has expressed shock over the death of Arise Television journalist and news anchor, Ms. Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu.

In a condolence message addressed to the management and staff of Arise TV, Omisore described Maduagwu’s passing as “a huge loss to the Nigerian media industry and the nation at large.

“It is with deep shock

and profound sadness that I received the news of the untimely passing of your dedicated journalist and news anchor, Ms. Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu,” Omisore said.

He also extended his heartfelt condolences to

Arise News Chairman, Nduka Obaigbena, the station’s staff, as well as Maduagwu’s family, friends, and colleagues. According to him, the late journalist’s contributions to the growth of journalism in Nigeria will not be forgotten.

Ologunagba: PDP On Course for Successful Convention, Defections Are

The National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Debo Ologunagba, has dismissed speculations of looming defections and assured that the party remains firmly on course for its upcoming national convention.

In an interview with ARISE NEWS yesterday, Ologunagba said the PDP was working methodically and seamlessly towards a convention that

would reaffirm its place as Nigeria’s strongest opposition party.

“We are determined as a party, we are focused on the battle, and the train for the convention has arrived.”

Speaking on reports that former President Goodluck Jonathan may seek the presidency under the PDP platform, Ologunagba noted that it was within Jonathan’s right to contest if he so wished. “President Jonathan is a

Mere Wishful Thinking

member of the party. He has not said he is not a member, so it’s within his right to aspire to any position.”

He also pointed out that the PDP has several governors and senior members who are eminently qualified to seek the party’s presidential ticket.

“Aside from the name of President Jonathan that is being bandied around and being mentioned, in the rank of the PDP, there are many qualified, exceedingly qualified

individuals among members of our party, among the governors of the party, many of whom have demonstrated capacity in their performance and achievements.”

On internal disputes in some state chapters, Ologunagba explained that the National Working Committee (NWC) had acted within its powers by dissolving certain executive committees and reconstituting caretaker bodies to avoid leadership vacuums.

IRetirement: The Case Against Age Discrimination

Age should not be a barrier to service, argues SONNY IROCHE

have always believed that there should be no discrimination on the basis of age. Just as in the United States and many other advanced democracies, ability, competence, and health, not the calendar, should determine whether a person continues to serve their nation or profession. Nigeria, ironically, has consistently entrusted its most strenuous, high-stakes offices to individuals above the civil service retirement age, while keeping its own seasoned professionals out of service at 60 years. This contradiction calls for sober reflection and reform. Since the beginning of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic in 1999, all our presidents have been over 60 years of age. From Chief Olusegun Obasanjo (who claimed 62 at inauguration) to President Muhammadu Buhari (72 at inauguration) and now President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (71 at inauguration), the highest office in the land has remained in the hands of those beyond the threshold of compulsory civil service retirement. Governors, senators, and local government chairpersons also serve well into their 60s, 70s, and even 80s. Yet, paradoxically, dedicated civil servants, teachers, doctors, and judges, many still at the height of their wisdom and productivity, are compelled to step down once they clock 60.

This begs the question: if age is no barrier to governing a nation of over 200 million people, why should it disqualify a seasoned technocrat from leading a bank, classroom, hospital ward, or judicial bench?

The United States provides a clear case study where no retirement age exists for corporate and political leadership. President Joe Biden assumed office at 78, making him the oldest president in U.S. history. Donald Trump entered at over 75. In the USA Congress, age is hardly a barrier. Senator Dianne Feinstein served until 90, while Senator Chuck Grassley, at 92. The U.S. Supreme Court has no fixed retirement age; justices serve for life.

In the United Kingdom, there is no mandatory retirement age for MPs or the House of Lords. Winston Churchill served as Prime Minister into his 80s, while Queen Elizabeth II remained monarch until 96.

The Catholic Church is another striking example. Pope Francis served until his passing in April 2025 at age 88. His successor, Pope Leo XIV, elected in

May 2025, illustrates that leadership is measured by capacity, not age. Across faiths, longevity and wisdom are prized over arbitrary limits.

Globally, professors continue to research and teach well into their 70s and 80s. In the U.S., the Supreme Court is filled with examples: Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. served until age 90; Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg until 87; and Justice Thurgood Marshall, the first Black justice, served from 1967 until his retirement in 1991, passing away two years later at age 84. These examples underscore how age enriches judgment rather than diminishes it.

In business, Warren Buffett still leads Berkshire Hathaway at 95. Rupert Murdoch remains influential at 94. My late uncle Michael Okorie, remained the MD/CEO of ITT well into his 90s, in this same Nigeria. Tech and venture leaders like Masayoshi Son and Vinod Khosla continue to innovate into their 70s. Nigeria’s mandatory retirement age of 60 in the civil service is a colonial relic. While originally intended to create space for younger workers, it no longer fits today’s realities.

A 60-year-old permanent secretary with decades of knowledge must retire.

• Judges must step down at 65 or 70, even though jurists like Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, Udo-Udoma, and Kayode Esho, just to name a few, continued to make their best contributions in the Supreme Court of Nigeria late in life.

Yet a 75-year-old can campaign and govern Nigeria. The contradiction is clear: retirement rules appear rigid in bureaucracies but flexible in politics.

Why Retirement Should Be Rethought: Nigerians today live healthier and longer lives than in the 1960s. Many remain active well into their 70s. Loss of Knowledge: Forcing professionals out leads to abrupt loss of experience in medicine, banking, academia, engineering, and law.

Global Competitiveness: Nations that use both youth and elder wisdom advance faster in innovation and governance.

IF A 75-YEAR-OLD IS CAPABLE OF GOVERNING NIGERIA, WHY SHOULD A 61-YEAR-OLD DOCTOR, PROFESSOR, OR JUDGE BE CAST ASIDE?

Iroche is the CEO of GenAI Learning Concepts Ltd, a pioneer AI consulting company in Nigeria. He was a Senior Academic Fellow at the African Studies Centre, University of Oxford (2022–2023).

Nigeria At 65: A Journey Through Hope, Hurdles

SAMUEL AKPOBOME OROVWUJE contends that the country must confront its challenges in the area of leadership and integrity

On October 1, 1960, Nigeria stood before the world with pride and promise, a newly independent nation brimming with hope for unity, prosperity, and greatness. Sixty-five years later, that promise remains unfulfilled. The country’s journey has been marked by dazzling moments of progress and painful episodes of turmoil from the turbulence of military rule to the struggles of democratic governance. Today, as Nigeria celebrates another independence anniversary, the pressing question lingers: why does the dream of a stable, just, and prosperous nation still seem out of reach?

Nigeria’s journey to nationhood was complex and uneven. The amalgamation of 1914, which fused the Northern and Southern protectorates into one colonial entity, created a state without a nation. The British governed indirectly, privileging certain regions and creating unequal patterns of political, economic, and educational development. While the South, particularly the Western and Eastern regions, had greater access

to Western education and political awareness, the North developed at a different pace under indirect rule.

Yet, despite these divisions, the independence movement gathered steam in the 1940s and 1950s. Nationalist leaders such as Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, Ahmadu Bello, and Tafawa Balewa championed self-rule, mobilizing diverse constituencies under the banner of freedom. The Macpherson Constitution of 1951 and the Lyttleton Constitution of 1954 gradually expanded self-government, culminating in the landmark Independence on October 1, 1960.

But beneath the celebrations, the foundations of discord were visible. Nigeria inherited a federal system riddled with regional rivalries. The East, West, and North, dominated by their respective political parties the NCNC, Action Group, and NPC were more loyal to their ethnic bases than to a national identity. While independence brought selfrule, it also unveiled the fragility of unity in diversity. The early post-independence years carried immense promise. Nigeria was Africa’s most

populous country, endowed with fertile land, oil, and human capital. Its leaders spoke of democracy, federalism, and economic progress. Yet, the young nation soon faltered. The First Republic (1960–1966) was marred by electoral malpractices, corruption, and political intolerance.

The 1964 general elections were disputed, while the 1965 Western Region elections descended into violence, infamously remembered as “Operation Wetie.” Political leaders, instead of nurturing national cohesion, often deepened ethnic and regional divides.

The fragile federation collapsed in January 1966 when young military officers staged Nigeria’s first coup, assassinating Prime Minister Tafawa Balewa, Sir Ahmadu Bello, and Chief Samuel Akintola, among others. Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi assumed power, but his attempt to centralize authority deepened ethnic suspicions. By July 1966, a counter-coup erupted, largely driven by northern officers, and General Yakubu Gowon emerged as Head of State.

The spiral of events eventually led

to one of Nigeria’s darkest chapters the civil war of 1967–1970, when the Eastern Region attempted to secede as the Republic of Biafra. The war claimed an estimated one million lives and left deep wounds on the national psyche. Although Nigeria officially declared “no victor, no vanquished,” the scars of mistrust, marginalization, and identity politics remain embedded in the national fabric.

From 1966 until 1999, save for a brief civilian interlude between 1979 and 1983, Nigeria was largely under military rule. The khaki years profoundly shaped the country’s political culture, economy, and institutions. General Yakubu Gowon’s regime (1966–1975) oversaw the civil war and post-war reconstruction, but his failure to deliver on the promise of returning to civilian rule eroded his credibility. His successor, General Murtala Muhammed, attempted bold reforms before his assassination in 1976. Orovwuje is a public affairs analyst specialising in human rights, policy advocacy, and governance in Africa

What a waste!

Somtochukwu Maduagwu: One Death Too Many

In Praise of President Buhari

Prophet Oyeniyi and the Old Woman

WThen President Muhammadu Buhari took over the reins of power on May 29, 2015, Nigeria was sadly a broken state in many respects. As a result of many other factors including bad governance and untold level of corruption, government could not live up to its financial obligations to citizens and service providers at both the federal and state levels.

elements who monitor and trail their victims before striking, often without resistance.

Indeed one of the first official assignments that President Buhari carried out was the approval of billions of Naira in bailout funds to enable state governors pay something as basic as workers’ salaries. Granting those bailout funds was a huge boost to national security because the pressure of arrears of unpaid monthly salaries building dangerously all over the country was a ticking bomb.

he gruesome murder of Somtochukwu Maduagwu, a brilliant news anchor with Arise News Television, has once again thrown the nation into mourning and ignited fresh concerns about the state of insecurity in Nigeria. Somtochukwu was killed during a robbery attack at her residence in Katampe, Abuja, a chilling reminder of how cheap human life has become in our country.

Ask the naysayers and they would readily remind you of how long it took President Buhari to appoint his ministers and how that contributed to collapse of the economy as if, without ministers, governance was frozen. But buying that narrative would amount to what a famous Nigerian writer, Chimamanda Adichie, termed “the danger of a single story”. Yet the whole story was that many of our citizens did not know how decrepit a state President Buhari inherited in 2015.

It was therefore necessary for him to take stock against the background of the fact that the departing government did not, reportedly, cooperate full well with the incoming government in terms of leaving workable handover notes. Although President Goodluck Jonathan was gracious in defeat, many of his appointees were still sulking over what they saw as their personal losses and therefore pulled all the stops to make things difficult for the Buhari government.

Across Nigeria, lives are being cut short daily by armed robbers, kidnappers, armed herders, terrorists, and bandits. What was once considered shocking has now become so routine that it rarely makes headlines. Death and destruction are met with a frightening sense of normalcy, leaving families to grieve silently while the nation trudges on.

by the EFCC, President Buhari by his action has successfully brought back to the public consciousness the need to treat public funds with the highest level of transparency and accountability.

Somtochukwu’s death is more than a personal tragedy. It is a sobering indictment of Nigeria’s decaying security architecture. Beyond the massive infrastructural projects springing up across the FCT, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory must urgently prioritize the safety of lives. Security agencies should not only raid but continuously dismantle criminal enclaves and hideouts in and around Abuja. This must not be a one-off exercise but a sustained and deliberate campaign to restore public confidence and secure the environment.

TAfter keeping treasury looters on their toes and at bay through the EFCC, particularly, President Buhari moved to curb unnecessary spending habits of the nation on what economists call articles of ostentation. Part of the disclosures of the President’s stock taking was how the country frittered away billions in foreign currency by importing goods, which can be produced at home. One of such items was rice, a major staple among Nigerians. By banning rice importation into the country, the President on one hand had saved the nation billions in foreign currency annually.

And, on the other hand, the President has boosted domestic production of rice and in the process had nudged the country into self sufficiency in food production. He also created millions of jobs for young people in the rice value chain.

Stop Ritual Attacks and Killings

he Advocacy for Alleged Witches calls on authorities to sanction a Nigerian Prophet, Oyeniyi, the leader of the African Apostolic Church. This call became necessary following a video where he was seen abusing an elderly woman during a ‘healing’ session. In this video, circulated on X, the ‘prophet’ was seen beating, violently shaking, and pushing this apparently sick woman. At some point, Oyeniyi slapped the face of the woman, spitting into her mouth. The Advocacy for Alleged Witches condemns this revulsive act that is potentially health-damaging. Beating the woman could lead to trauma and other mental health injuries. Spitting into her mouth could infect the woman with flu, cold, herpes and other viral and bacterial infections.

What is most admirable about President Buhari and his government is its frugal management of scarce national resources to attain optimum goals.

Recall that since President Buhari stepped in the saddle, oil revenue dropped abysmally as if to sabotage him knowing all the big promises he made to citizens during his campaigns. But with the little resources that trickle in, the President is achieving what governments that received oil windfalls could not dream of.

Tochukwu Jimo Obi, jimobi83@gmail. com

TThe authorities should investigate the activities of Oyeniyi. They should hold him to account. Oyeniyi should not be allowed to go scot-free. For instance, the post on X stated that he was engaged in ‘healing’. Oyeniyi needs to explain what he was doing in the video and what he was doing to the woman. He needs to show if he is a healer, and how and when he became a healer.

Leo Igwe directs the Advocacy for Alleged Witches

Even with the obvious and unpatriotic obscurantist behaviour of the PDP appointees and their supporters still in government hell-bent on making things difficult for Buhari, the President moved on with his methodical repair of a broken country. The first thing he did was to identify all possible sources of income to the nation and directed that all inflows be paid into one single account in line with the policy of Single Treasury Account (TSA).

The TSA policy, interestingly, was mooted by the PDP government but its penchant for imprudence and lack of accountability denied it the courage of implementing the policy. What the President literally did was to gather all the nation’s money into one box and locked it up with a big padlock and watched for any thief to come close.

This tragedy in Abuja underscores a grim reality: even the Federal Capital Territory, which should be the most secure part of Nigeria, is under siege. Kidnappings, “one chance” robberies, house invasions, and vehicle burglaries plague the city, while security agencies appear overwhelmed, under-resourced, or indifferent. Despite the billions of naira reportedly spent to combat insecurity, the bloodletting continues without abatement.

Who can blame the President for almost developing paranoia over the safeguard of the national treasury with revelations and reports of mind-boggling looting that took place in the 16 years of the PDP? With such disclosures of how billions meant for fighting insurgency in the Northeast ended up in the pockets of a few individuals while our gallant soldiers fought with bare hands and on empty stomach, President Buhari was duty bound to bring sanity and accountability back in national spending.

The nation’s capital should be a symbol of safety and stability, yet its porous security network leaves residents vulnerable. Makeshift houses, abandoned structures, and uncompleted buildings have become hideouts for criminal

Thus, under President Buhari, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which had remained comatose for years, was woken up to resume its duties. Apart from the trillions of Naira of looted funds and property recovered from corrupt politicians

Today, the trains are up and running daily from Abuja to Kaduna. And from Lagos to Ibadan a brand new rail track was started and completed; citizens are already commuting daily to and fro these two major cities in the country seamlessly as they reap from the dividends of democracy. And with the way this government is going, before 2023 when the President would leave, the entire country would be linked by rail with all of its economic advantages.

Ainofenokhai Ojeifo, Abuja

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he approach by Israel to the latest Gaza aid flotilla seems illogical. Stopping them and boarding the boats in international waters is a crime and probably a war crime as weapons were there as a threat. It would have been more sensible to let them keep going and arrest them as ‘invaders’.

he Advocacy for Alleged Witches (AfAW) urges the Nigerian public to stop ritual attacks and killings because the notion of ritual money and wealth is completely baseless. AfAW is making this call following the reported arrest of suspected ritualists in Oyo State in southern Nigeria. The local media reported that members of the Western Nigeria Security Network, Amotekun, arrested suspected ritualists with the body parts of a 73-year-old man. The suspects, who were apprehended in the Boluwaji area in Ibadan, said that a Muslim cleric asked them to procure some human body parts for rituals. Ritual attacks are widespread in Nigeria. Irrational conceptions of how to make money or become wealthy and successful undergird these atrocities. Many Nigerians strongly believe in blood money, known in some local languages as Ogun Owo (Yoruba) or Ogwu ego (Igbo). They think that they could become rich, or successful through ritual sacrifice. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Ritual wealth has no basis in reason, science, or reality. Home movies known as Africa magic or Nollywood films have not helped matters. These movies continue to reinforce these mistaken notions and other superstitions. Families, churches, mosques, and other public institutions do not encourage the interrogation of these traditional occult beliefs. There are no robust efforts to criticize or dispel these irrational and paranormal claims in schools, colleges, and universities. So millions of Nigerians grow up blindly believing that they could make money through ritual sacrifice of human body parts. The belief has led many Nigerians to commit crimes and perpetrate atrocities. Many Nigerians have been jailed or are undergoing court trials due to ritualrelated attacks and murder.

As a number of the people on the flotilla were well known more international attention is created and this portrays the boarding of the boats poorly. It seems that a more practical approach would have been to let them continue on, under escort, land and then arrest them, making sure that any food and medicine is passed on to one of the charities operating there.

Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia

Not too long ago, the police arrested some young Nigerians for stealing female pants, which they intended to use for ritual sacrifice. AfAW is asking all Nigerians to desist from ritual-related abuses because ritual money beliefs are baseless superstitions. Nigerian media, schools, and colleges should help educate and reorient the public. They should assist in reasoning Nigerians out of this killer-superstitious absurdity and nonsense. Leo Igwe directs the Advocacy for Alleged Witches (AfAW)

SCORECARD PRESENTATION...

L

Company Secretary, Parallex

Limited,

2027: EU Warns Nigeria Running Out of Time for Credible Elections

INEC yet to show commitment to electoral reforms, says Atiku

The European Union Electoral Observer Mission has said Nigeria may be running against time in the push to conduct

credible elections in 2027.

This was as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar said that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has not demonstrated sufficient commitment to improving Nigeria’s electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The Mission said as it currently stands, something urgently needed to be done to fast track the ongoing

electoral and constitutional reforms to make the next general elections acceptable to all stakeholders in tandem with the recommendations of both local and international observers who observed the

Nigeria@65: FG Must Root Out Cabal in Oil Sector, Says CIFCFIN

Bennett Oghifo

The Chartered Institute of Forensics and Certified Fraud Investigators of Nigeria (CIFCFIN) has said that as Nigeria celebrated its 65th independence, the federal government must take decisive action to root out the cabals in the oil and gas sector.

In a statement signed by the Founder and Chairman, Governing Council, Dr. Iliyasu Gashinbaki, the Institute stated that its forensic analysis revealed how cabals operating through proxy sector institutions like the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), and the unions such as the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), and

the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN), created formidable bottlenecks that perpetuate scarcity and import dependency.

To break the vicious cycle, Gashinbaki said the federal government must adopt a four-pronged approach.

“One, invoke all legal instruments, including the Petroleum Industry Act, to treat these obstructive actions as economic sabotage. Two, assert executive authority against

any group holding our economy to ransom and harming public trust in government’s performance. Three, designate strategic national assets like the Dangote Refinery as critical infrastructure deserving maximum protection and finally, encourage other big private sector players to invest in the oil and gas industry in order to create greater competitiveness within the oil and gas sector as already seen in the successes of the telecommunication sector.”

NAFDAC Seals 2 Chinese Supermarkets, 8

Cosmetic Shops

in Abuja

unregistered cosmetics, aphrodisiacs, and aesthetic medicines.

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) said it has shut two Chinese supermarkets located in the Jabi District and eight cosmetics shops at Wuse Market, Abuja, confiscating products worth over N170 million.

The agency also said that it has shut down eight cosmetics shops within Wuse Market for the sale of banned, expired, and

A statement yesterday signed by its Deputy Director of Public Relations/ Protocol, Adegboyega Osiyemi, NAFDAC said that “acting on the directive of the Director General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, the enforcement team confiscated and evacuated offending products worth over N170 million.”

It said the action was as a result of flagrant violation

of extant laws governing the sale, distribution, and labelling of regulated products in Nigeria.

The statement said that the supermarkets situated on Mike Akhigbe Way and Ebitu Ukiwe Street in Jabi District, Abuja, were sealed following credible consumer complaints and subsequent surveillance by NAFDAC Enforcement Team.

According to NAFDAC, investigations revealed that the operators of the Chinese supermarkets were engaged in the sale of unregistered

food items and products labelled exclusively in Chinese language, contrary to NAFDAC’s mandatory labelling policy requiring English translations for the Nigerian market and regulatory understanding.

“Despite initial resistance and denials by the foreign nationals at Ebitu Street that the supermarket is yet to commence operation, the enforcement team confirmed that the outlet was in full operation and selling unregistered regulated products,” it added.

2023 general elections.

The EU team which was in Nigeria on a follow-up mission, while addressing a press conference yesterday in Abuja, said the timely reforms in the constitution and election law were necessary to ensure voter confidence in the country’s electoral process.

The Head of the follow-up EU Electoral Observer Mission, Barry Andrews, said it was necessary that the country sped up the reforms noting that only one out of the 23 recommendations to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been fully implemented.

The EFM found that while two recommendations have been partially implemented, eight are ongoing, three too

early to determine, and nine have not been implemented. Andrews while commending the legislature for the amendment so far in the Electoral Act 2025 and ongoing constitutional review process, pointed out that time is running out.

He stressed that the country’s resilience depends on reforms that citizens can believe in. Andrews said, “So, the electoral observation mission final report in 2023 made 23 recommendations. 11 require legal changes and 12 are administrative in nature.

“The mission identified so far that one recommendation has been fully implemented. Two recommendations have been partially implemented.

Flutterwave CEO Bets on Stablecoins as Africa's Next Financial Leap

At high-profile events in Riyadh, namely Money 20/20 Middle East and the two-day summit Fluidity 2025, Flutterwave Founder and CEO, Olugbenga “GB” Agboola, highlighted the company’s shift toward supporting stablecoin payments for individuals and enterprises.

This strategy underscores that Flutterwave is not merely betting on stablecoins but is actively building partnerships for a future where they serve as the backbone of the ongoing financial transformation across Africa and beyond.

Agboola linked this vision directly to the continent’s demographic during his presentation, ‘Youth, Mobile and Money: Africa’s BillionDollar Fintech Opportunity’.

He highlighted the critical role of Africa’s young population in shaping global

financial trends. “Africa’s youth are early adopters, digital natives, and entrepreneurial by nature,” he said.

Agboola carried this theme into speaking engagements, which featured a panel on public-private partnerships with Mr. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency, and a session on accelerating trade flow between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Africa.

Throughout these appearances, the Flutterwave CEO maintained a consistent message: Africa's youth demographic is a dividend that requires proactive support from all stakeholders. He argued that the continent's economic growth is directly tied to the success of its young population.

REWARDING CUSTOMER LOYALTY...

Tinubu: My Administration Stands Resolute In Empowering Women

Underrepresentation of women in politics will soon be history, says Abbas

President Bola Tinubu has said that his administration stands resolute in empowering women, saying the story of Nigeria will be incomplete without the strength of its women.

This was as the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, declared that the persistent issue of women's underrepresentation in Nigeria's political space will soon become a thing of the past, as renewed efforts are underway to address it through collective action and legislative reform.

President Tinubu and Hon. Abbas disclosed this at the 9th Voice of Women Conference and Awards (VOW2025) themed ‘Nigerian Women and the Power of Collective Action’.

The President who was represented by the Minister

of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, said "Your voices remain the heartbeat of our country; echoing, undaunted, unyielding, and rising to shape a future of equity and progress under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

"My administration stands resolute in empowering women as protectors of families, drivers of innovation, and catalysts of the one trillion-dollar economy we are building together."

The Speaker who was represented by House Committee Chairman on Women Affairs, Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to the passage of the Reserved Seats Bill for Women.

“The issue of women’s underrepresentation will soon be the tale of the past. We are engaging with our colleagues

Ex-Euronav Manager Joins Caverton Marine as Chief Commercial Officer

Bennett Oghifo

Caverton Marine has announced the appointment of former Euronav London General Manager, Pauline Sessou-Diop, as its Chief Commercial Officer (CCO).

According to a press statement by the management, based out of London, her role will comprise defining the commercial and business development strategy focusing on eco effective fleet expansion in oil, gas and bulk marine transportation worldwide, with a particular focus on the West African market.

Deregulation of the downstream sector and implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act has

encouraged an increase of both domestic and foreign investment from the private sector.

Welcoming the seasoned professional to his team, Chief Executive Officer, Caverton Offshore Support Group, Bode Makanjuola said, “We want to strengthen Caverton Marine as a reliable energy transport partner, delivering safe, efficient, and sustainable shipping solutions. Pauline brings a wealth of knowledge in company strategy, time charter negotiations and vessels acquisitions. As appetite for accessing the West African region expands, we want to offer a differentiated service that investors can trust.”

one-on-one. Whether in Abuja or in their constituencies, we are making sure they understand that the time is now. There is no better time than now,” he said.

The Speaker emphasised

the importance of collective advocacy and legislative reform, noting, “The Reserved Seats Bill, which I am proud to co-sponsor, seeks to create 37 additional seats for women across the National Assembly,

including three seats per senatorial district at the state level.”

He highlighted the recent National Public Hearing on the Bill held on September 22, where Nigerian women turned out in overwhelming numbers to show solidarity. “It was a clear sign that Nigerian women are ready to take their place at the decision-making table. We are not asking — we are taking action.”

Nigeria, An Underperforming Country, Says Ibadan Varsity Don

A professor of Political Science at the University of Ibadan, Dhikru Yagboyaju, yesterday described Nigeria as an underperforming country despite its size as well as human and material endowments.

Yagboyaju, while delivering the 595th inaugural lecture of the university titled, ‘Big for Nothing? Nigeria's struggle with a paradox’, said Nigeria though a big country has underperformed because its citizens have underperformed, stating that the situation is abnormal and undesirable because the people have not been acting normally.

According to him, while Nigerians, whether rich or poor, high or low, want a big, beautiful, and functioning country, they hardly understand why and how rules, regulations, and laws are important and connected to the well-being and prosperity of the citizens and the country as a corporate entity.

He noted that though order is required even in anarchy, big men of the country, whether real or aspiring, feel offended

to be asked to be orderly. He said the police, whether in uniform or without, have been found wanting both in their preventive and reparative functions, lamenting that policing in its broad perspective has not been

effective in the country.

Yagboyaju said directional leadership which takes responsibility for decisionmaking has been lacking for a considerable length of time, insisting that serving Nigeria is not about the position one

holds but about how one uses his or her abilities and virtues to impact the society positively. He added that it is then no surprise that institutions in the country, whether social, economic, and political, have performed abysmally.

Have Big Vision, Clarity of Problem to Solve, Financial Prudence, Bolaji Balogun Advices Start-ups

Bennett Oghifo

The Chief Executive Officer of Chapel Hill Denham, Bolaji Balogun, has advised start-ups planning to start business to have a big vision, clarity about the unique problems they intend to solve, discipline, financial prudence, and lots of experience. Balogun gave the advice as

he shared strategic guidance for entrepreneurs aiming to build sustainable businesses in Nigeria and Africa, at a recent Worldwide Alumni Celebration of the London Business School (LBS), Nigeria chapter in Lagos, themed ‘Africa’s Builders: What it takes to start, grow and scale’.

He presented the growth strategies, saying, “You must

have a big vision and be clear about the problems you are solving when starting a business.

“The other thing that you'll find common is that you need tremendous discipline around consistency in execution. It's about financial prudence, operational rigour, and you will also need a lot of courage when you start.”

First Lady Declares Maiden Gombe Health Summit Open

Segun Awofadeji in Gombe

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has officially declared open the maiden Gombe Health Summit.

In her remarks at the ceremony on Thursday, she commended Governor

Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya for his bold and visionary reforms which, according to her, have repositioned the state’s health sector as a model for the nation.

The First Lady described the health policies of the Yahaya administration as transformational and trailblazing.

She pointed to the expansion of primary health centres, the modernisation of hospitals across the three senatorial districts and the innovative approach to tackling child malnutrition as clear evidence of the governor’s commitment to building a workable and sustainable health system.

GLAD TO MEET YOU...

Tourism Experts Harp on Adherence to Standards to Grow Sector

Stakeholders in the tourism and hospitality sector have called for the adoption and adherence to standards in order to enhance the growth of the industry in Abia State and the South-east region. The call was made in Umuahia at the 7th Tourism World International Commercial/Agro-Tourism Conference and Awards held at the Aguiyi Ironsi Conference Hall.

The conference themed

'Tourism: A Viable Tool for Unlocking Socioeconomic Growth, Community Prosperity and Inclusive Opportunities', brought together stakeholders in the tourism and hospitality sector across the nation.

The keynote address delivered by Professor Wasiu Babalola set the tone for the conference which highlighted the vital role of standards in the operation of tourism in Abia, and the Southeast zone as a whole.

Babalola, who is a professor of hotel management and

BAPs 'Fela & The Kalakuta Queens' Thrill Audience as National Theatre Roars Back to Life

The National Arts Theatre in Iganmu, Lagos, roared back to life on Wednesday October 1, 2025 after a few years of renovation and refurbishment.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, together with his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, led a rich array of dignitaries from the government, corporate sector and the creative industries to unveil the new-look premier home of the arts as a symbolic occasion to also celebrate Nigeria's 65th independence anniversary.

The magnificent edifice

and cultural institutions have now been rechristened by the federal government the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts as a fitting tribute to the respected Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, whose literary and theatrical contribution to the development of theatre, literature and film is immeasurable.

The three-hour unveiling event was laced with rich set of performances, of which the command performance of the popular musical, 'Fela And The Kalakuta Queens' stood out, thrilling the audience with its stellar cast, great acting, and spectacular dance routine, all laced with a few evergreen songs by the legendary King of Afrobeat music, the late Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.

Although it was a teaser showpiece that lasted for just half an hour, the performance added unmistakable colour to the unveiling event, especially given that it came just before the speeches by the Central Bank Governor, Mr. Yemi Cardoso and President Tinubu.

tourism at Atiba University Oyo, Nigeria and the Chairman of the SON National Technical/Mirror Committee on Tourism and Related Services, emphasised that standards remain the backbone of a sustainable and competitive tourism industry.

"Without well-defined and enforced standards, tourism services risk being inconsistent, unreliable, and uncompetitive in the global marketplace.

"By prioritising standards, Abia State and the entire

South-east region can position itself as a hub of quality hospitality and tourism, capable of attracting both domestic and international tourists,” he said.

According to the tourism expert, standards must cover all aspects of the tourism value chain, ranging from accommodation, food safety, and customer service to destination management, eco-tourism practices, and safety protocols.

For the culture of standard

to become a feature of the tourism industry in Abia, Babalola urged operators and regulators in the industry to join hands with relevant government agencies and the Technical/Mirror Committee. He said such collaboration was necessary for developing, adopting, and implementing the set standards when they become available, in line with international best practices.

The university don further called for action, stating that standards were not merely

about compliance; they were about building trust, creating value, and ensuring that every visitor to Abia State departs with a memorable, high-quality experience.

The Abia Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Matthew Ekwuruibe, stated that the government remained committed in its efforts to strengthen the tourism sector as a key driver of economic diversification, job creation, and cultural preservation.

NYSC Provides Services Worth Over N14bn to Lagos State Annually, Says DG

Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole in Abuja

The Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig. Gen. Olakunle

Nafiu, has stated that the scheme provides the Lagos State government with services worth over N14 billion annually.

Gen. Nafiu stated this when he paid the Lagos State Governor

Babajide Sanwo-Olu a courtesy visit in his office in Lagos.

The scheme made the disclosure in a press statement that was signed by the scheme's Director Information and Public

Bauchi Committee Recommends 13 New Emirates, 2 Chiefdoms, 111 Districts

Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi

The Bauchi State Committee on the Creation of Additional Emirates, Chiefdoms, and Districts has officially submitted its long-awaited report to Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, recommending a sweeping restructuring that includes the creation of 13 new Emirates, two Chiefdoms, and 111 Districts across the state.

The report was presented at the Government House, Bauchi yesterday, by the Chairman of the Committee, Alhaji Hamza Koshe Akuyam, who highlighted the comprehensive and inclusive nature of the assignment.

Iheanyi Anyahara Appointed PAFA Chair

Sunday Ehigiator

Relations (DIPR), Caroline Embu. And made available to the press on Friday.

Gen. Nafiu emphasised that "services provided by the NYSC for the government and people of Lagos State worth over 14 billion naira annually.

"Gen. Nafiu was quantifying, in minimum monetary value, the contributions of the over 44,000 Corps members deployed to the length and breadth of the state in various capacities, including the 333 medical doctors, 306 pharmacists, 274 nurses, and 7188 teachers.”

According to Nafiu, "Lagos was the number one destination for Corps members, noting that their parents were also comfortable with it, citing the relative security of the State."

The Pan African Federation of Accountants (PAFA) has announced the appointment of Nigerian accounting professional, Dr. Iheanyi Odinakachi Anyahara, as Chair of the Forum for Advancing Sustainability and Integrated Reporting in Africa.

Prinsloo.

The appointment, approved by the PAFA Board at its meeting on September 11, 2025, was formally conveyed to Anyahara, in a letter dated September 25, 2025, signed by PAFA Chief Executive Officer, Alta

Anyahara’s career-long contributions to accounting standards, sustainability practices, and financial reporting both in Nigeria and on the international stage were cited as key reasons for his selection to lead the continental forum.

Speaking on the purpose of his visit he said, "The purpose of my visit was to acknowledge the support of the Lagos State government to the scheme, cement the already cordial relationship and reassure the governor that NYSC would continue to deploy adequate number of Corps members to serve in the state."

•Tourism •Arts&Culture

• 08064268968 • ajunwacharles@gmail.com

Karla Pelser: Hospitality Industry Globally Shifting Toward Sustainable Tourism

In just over a year of managing one of Lagos’s most exclusive lifestyle and leisure destinations, the General Manager of Lakowe Lakes, Karla Pelser, has seen the estate transform into a hub of hospitality, sports, and sustainable living. She tells Sunday Ehigiator, about her journey from Namibia to Nigeria, the rapid evolution of Lakowe and the vision behind its signature event Escape to the Greens recently held in Lagos

Who is Karla Pelser?

My name is Karla, and I come from Namibia. My family is based here at Lakowe. We’ve been here for just over a year now, and we love it. We’ve been very lucky. Our family has lived in a lot of different places in the world, and out of all those places, the people here are just incredible; next-level friendly, with a different kind of energy about them. So, we absolutely love it. What’s really exciting about Lakowe is that we have this massive expanse of land; it’s 306 hectares. Within that land, there are constant developments, and I’m not just talking about the real estate side of things. In hospitality, in the last year alone, we’ve expanded our offerings. We’ve built more cottages, really beautiful superior cottages, and we also have more projects ongoing.

There’s Golf X, which is like a gaming version of golf, similar to Top Golf in Dubai. That centre is under construction at the moment and will feature a new restaurant and café with seating for up to 100 people. It’s going to be fantastic, especially for team bonding. We also have paddle courts coming by December, which is exciting because paddle is becoming a huge global trend. We’re proud to be at the forefront of that development. Then we have our new gym, which is just launching. We even hosted a real estate event there today, as it has just been completed. And there’s more; a new event centre, a spa, and additional accommodation options are in the works. So, it’s constantly evolving, and we’re always finding new ways to keep up with the trends. It’s really exciting.

Lakowe has so many attractions. What would be your top three picks?

immersed in nature is incredible. Second, on the sports side, we have so much going on. We’ve got an amazing swimming pool, tennis courts, and excellent coaches. They offer lessons, so if you don’t know how to swim, we’ll teach you. If you do, we’ll help improve your stroke. And we’re still expanding our sports offerings. Thirdly, the restaurants; we currently have four outlets. There’s the Wine Bar, which is a fine-dining establishment that will soon get a facelift. Then there’s the Clubhouse, which isn’t just for golfers; it’s open to anyone and offers relaxed, all-day dining. We have the restaurant here, and the one at the pool at Revivo, which is launching a new menu next week; lots of smoothies and healthy options to complement the gym, but also some indulgent treats. And then in December, we’ll launch the new café at the Golf X facility. So, truly, there’s something for everyone.

Let’s talk about Escape to the Greens. What’s the idea behind it? This is the fourth year, right?

It’s the fourth year. Escape to the Greens actually started in conjunction with the Lakowe Lakes Golf Classic, which is the golf tournament happening this weekend. The tournament itself is in its 10th year now. About five years ago, it was decided to add a hospitality element for people who want to watch the golf but also have other things to do in between. So, it’s not just a golf event anymore.

First is golf. Everyone will tell you I am a terrible golfer; I’ve tried! But the golf here is incredible. Even if you’re not a golfer, just walking the course with someone who is playing is really great. The amazing thing about Lakowe is that you don’t actually realise you’re in the middle of Lagos. Lagos is usually busy, noisy, and full of energy, but as soon as you come here, it’s quiet, tranquil, and relaxed. Being on the course and Read

That’s how it began, and because it also coincides with Independence Day, it became even more significant. This year, Independence Day falls on a Wednesday, so we couldn’t celebrate in the middle of the week; we shifted it to the weekend.

- www.thisdaylive.com

Eyram Amegashie: Ghana’s Jollof Rice is the Best

Marketing Executive of Zaina Lodge, Mr. Eyram Amegashie, talks about how President John Dramani Mahama is promoting tourism in Ghana, tourism offers from Zaina Lodge, the Jollof rice fight between Nigerians and Ghanaians, among other issues. Charles Ajunwa brings excerpts

How is the current President promoting tourism in Ghana?

I think now more than ever, Ghana has been open to the rest of the world. We started with ‘A Year of Return’ from the previous administration. The current administration is hiring and spearheading the opening of Ghana even further. I don’t know if you heard about the ‘Momo’ conversation between Ghana and Nigeria. We are looking at expanding and opening up. The government is doing really well in this light. So Ghana can be that one destination for anybody who wants to travel and experience different cultures, different cuisine, and different people. Of course, Ghana is a place to be when it comes to hospitality.

Apart from nature, most tourists are looking out for the best the culinary. What do you

have to offer?

Ours is traditional when it comes to food. And Ghana Jollof is the best.

Nigeria’s Jollof rice is the best.

You see, Ghana’s Jollof rice is the best. The taste of Ghana Jollof, it’s boiled and cooked as if you were in your own house. The culinary experience is such that you leave with a good taste in your mouth. It’s an adventure and a delightful journey.

From our Jollof, to our Bangu, to our Fufu, to our Eto. We have all of that at Zaina Lodge and the Royal Senchi.

Nigerians and Ghanaians always fight over Jollof rice. Why?

The funny thing about the fight about Jollof rice is that it’s for neither of us. Apparently it’s from Senegal. But Ghana and Nigeria are such good siblings that we just want to have fun about it. I think that

when it comes to the taste, Ghana definitely has the best. Nigeria has the numbers, but our food is just the best.

Can you talk more about Zaina Lodge?

Zaina Lodge, is Ghana’s exclusive safari lodge. It’s the best safari lodge in the whole of West Africa. We are looking at chalet tents the middle of wildlife. Elephants, buffalos, and recently we spotted some leopards. It’s an amazing adventure. So anybody that is looking for an escape, adventure, safari, Zaina Lodge really is the place to be. The food and everything is done specially to reflect Africa and the authenticity of Ghana especially. And we are calling out to everybody to come to Ghana, to Zaina Lodge to experience Ghana’s exclusive safari lodge.

What other offers do you have?

We have community tours as well. We take tourists

on a wildlife safari with our rangers so they can experience wildlife first hand. We have community tours so you can create shea butter for yourself. We take tourists to a beautiful river in Mognori Village.

Ishan Babani: Why Tourists Should Come to Africa

Operational Manager of Cinderella Travel and Tours, Ishan Babani, talks about how his company promotes tourism in Africa. Charles Ajunwa brings excerpts

Can you tell us what your company is all about?

Our company is related to travel and tours. We do packages, hotels, visas, and tours. We are one of the leading B2B companies in Nigeria.

We have our offices all over Nigeria. Whether Port Harcourt, Enugu, Abuja, Kano, we are present there. We have almost 20 offices all over Africa. We are a Pan-African company.

How is your company promoting tourism?

In terms of promoting tourism, our major focus in Nigeria is to promote tours in Nigeria. We regularly have packages for people outside Nigeria. They should

come to Nigeria and experience their culture. We have done almost 15 groups last year, having 20 people in each group. They came to Nigeria, we did all their flights, accommodations, and visas. We did everything for them. And they really love it. People are going from Africa to other countries just to get a luxury but we know that Africa has the capability. They have those things, but they go outside. So we promote people to come to Africa. View Africa with their eyes. Not just go on the stories. They should come, visit and see how lovely people are. How they have taken care of their nature. Still they have the natural resources and what they have saved. So this is how we used to promote tourism in Africa.

What other products are you offering your clients?

For nature, we have packages for Kenya, Zanzibar, Tanzania so that people will see how beautiful the nature is. For Nigeria, last year when we came to Akwaaba, a few of our staff went to Ekiti State for tourism. They went there, they saw the culture. It was a sponsored trip for them so that they can go and see what is going on. What Nigeria has actually. What is the power of Nigeria in terms of tourism. We have packages for Nigeria.

Can you tell us some of these packages? I would prefer that they should go and explore the website and Instagram channel. We have our phone numbers, our email there.

Speak Volumes, Not ‘Volume’

YOU are welcome to our language clinic: “Customs deputy comptroller slumps, dies at Reps (Reps’) investigative hearing”

“…on his emergence as the vice chairman of the Southern Nigeria Governors (Governors’) Forum.”

“…speak volume (volumes) of your capabilities.” This error-ridden advertorial was signed by five lawmakers!

“…despite the fact that our party performed creditably well.” Delete ‘well’—it is an overkill. You either use ‘creditably’ or ‘well’ as both cannot co-function.

“…the financial institutions, especially those listed on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (another comma) are positioning to….”

“This emerged as the SEC yesterday, released its framework to….” Either a comma before ‘yesterday’ or none at all to avoid a disruption of the subject and the verb—there must be a joint relationship.

“…as listed commercial banks give investors opportunity (an opportunity or opportunities) to own a….”

“…is renowned for her electric music genre, comprising of soul….” Electrocute ‘of’!

Daily Independent online of September 28 entered this foible: “There are times necessity breed (breeds) invention….”

“…uncontrolled contract awards and flagrant disobedience to (of) financial regulations….”

Lastly from the above edition: “Proffer solution to Boko Haram menance first” Spell-check: menace.

“We wish to announce the sudden death of our friend…which sad event took place on…in a ghastly motor accident.” (THE GUARDIAN, September 23) When an accident results in death, it is fatal (not ghastly).

A recurrent blunder: “4 arrested over 62-yr-old man’s death” (Vanguard, September 23) No tiresomeness from error regularity: ‘arrest’ takes ‘for’ (not ‘over’).

“Why we’re promoting artistes of yesteryears” Nigeria’s weekly magazine: yesteryear. The same thing applies to ‘heyday’.

“Our grouse against NHIS, by community pharmacists” (THE GUARDIAN, September 10) My grouse about (not against) media language abuse….

“Before it used to be between 40 to 60.” (THE GUARDIAN, September 17) Even The Flagship? Either from 40 to 60 or between 40 and 60. No muddle, gentlemen.

“Explosions in the African continent” Conscience, Nurtured by Truth: Explosions on the African continent.

“In the presidential polls (a comma) President…failed to score the mandatory 50 per cent of the vote to be declared outrightly elected” ‘Outrightly’ is perverse American English. The standard version is ‘outright’ which functions both as an adverb and an adjective. We cannot continue agonizing over semantics.

“On December 29, the governor added another feather to his cap when….” (Daily Trust, September 15) Stock expression: added (no need for another) a feather in (not to) one’s (his) cap.

“Solutions that create more social trauma and dislocations than is (are) currently the case will not be preferred over (to) solutions that minimize the same.” I prefer compere to (not over) master of ceremonies.

“The three parties that demanded for the restructuring of the electoral body are….” (Daily Independent, September 16) As a verb, ‘demand’ does not take ‘for’ except in a noun form.

“Given the robust profiles of majority (a majority) of the INEC commissioners, there

is every hope that the commission may get its acts together in the next elections.”

A review: a majority of…and the fixed expression: get its act (not acts) together.

The following blunders are from Leadership of September16: “Hong Kong, as a colony, is made up of the harbour that is reputed to be one of the busiest in the world comprising of some outlying settlements, ceded to Britain by China in 1842.” This can’t be a challenge: ‘comprising’ does not require ‘of’.

“I feel the permanent solution is not in importing fuel from abroad….” (Vanguard, September 16) The importation couldn’t have been from within these shores!

“Their roles and participation in the furtherance of dictatorship has (have) seriously.…” (Source: as above)

“Issues bothering on meeting employers’ obligations to employees in form of salary….” There is a sharp distinction between ‘bothering’ and ‘bordering’, which applies here.

“While contesting the alleged sale of the bakery and its ultra-modern equipments….”

‘Equipment’ is uncountable.

“Given the robust profiles of majority of the INEC commissioners, there is every hope that the commission may get its acts together in the April elections.” A review: a majority of…and the fixed expression: get its act (not acts) together.

“The impression seems to have gained ground that the voter registration was just another white elephant project, a wasteful jamboree.” Get it right: just white elephant. All the trash about ‘project, a wasteful jamboree’ is simply pleonastic.

“Just imagine if all the money which was sunken into the Ajaokuta steel project.…”

Tense mix-up: yank away ‘sunken’ for ‘sunk.’

“I escaped death by a hair’s breath” No lexical mayhem: a hair’s breadth.

Nigeria@65: Are We Growing or Ageing?

Afew days ago, Nigeria trudged through her 65th Independence Day anniversary, and you would be forgiven if you missed it. The day slid by on Wednesday, 1 October, with barely a ripple on the national pond - no stirring speeches to remember, no galvanising rallies, no genuine hope stoked in the hearts of long-suffering citizens. Just a few perfunctory flag-wavings here and there, dutiful prayers in government houses, and, of course, the customary presidential address that arrived with all the force of a deflated balloon. By the next morning, the so-called celebration had been swept aside by the humdrum of survival - CNG queues, power outages, kidnappers’ exploits, and the ever-shifting price of tomatoes.

One almost chuckles at the irony: sixty-five years after lowering the Union Jack, the country marks her own birthday like a reluctant celebrant at a poorly attended party, muttering thanks to absent guests. We appear to have resigned ourselves to anniversaries that neither inspire nor provoke much beyond weary sighs. And yet, within this uninspired tableau, one cannot help but remember another Independence Day not so long ago, when the tragic story of a forgotten lecturer in Edo State, Friday Orobator, darkened the promise of our so-called freedom.

Orobator’s name deserves more than a passing mention. In 2020, around the time Nigeria was trumpeting her 60th anniversary with a logo so uninspired it might as well have been doodled in the back of a classroom notebook, Orobator - a principal lecturer in the Department

of Adult Education at the then Edo State College of Education - was plotting his own exit from this world. For thirteen months, he had not been paid his salary. Not thirteen days or weeks. Thirteen months. A whole calendar cycle of hunger, begging, ill health, and humiliation - endured while his governor spent billions of naira on electioneering theatrics and his president scolded Nigerians for daring to complain about fuel hikes. The same president who thought it wise to compare Nigeria’s pump prices with Saudi Arabia’s, as if our roads, hospitals, and infrastructure could be confused with Riyadh’s. By 2nd of October, 2020, Orobator had had enough. He tied a rope around his neck in his Benin City home and ended the battle against a government that had already abandoned him. He left behind a wife, four children, and a newborn who entered the world just in time to watch it crush her father. The following morning, the nation carried on with its distractions: speeches, rallies, fireworks, and the president’s tone-deaf sermon. But in that little flat in Obakhazbaye, Edo State, Independence meant death, despair, and a headline that barely made a dent in our collective memory. Five years later, as Nigeria limped past 65, the story feels eerily current. Workers across states are still being owed. Retirees still collapse in endless queues for pensions that may never come. Doctors still flee abroad in droves, weary of being treated like expendable spare parts. Young graduates still wander the streets, file in hand, clutching CVs that nobody will read. And our leaders? They are still spinning half-baked speeches about sacrifice, unity, and the “resilience of

“I detest the idea of somebody being nun talk less of my own daughter.” ‘Talk less’ is Nigerian English employed in place of ‘not to talk of’ or ‘let alone’ which are standard entries.

“The PDP has expressed serious concern at the fire outbreak, describing it as suspicious.” Just delete ‘outbreak’ on grounds of redundancy.

“Nigeria in search for (of) an enduring political structure…”

“NGO sensitises (sensitizes, preferably) girls on (to) engineering, STEM-related activities”

“…or through these number….” EFCC please take note: this number or these numbers

“We urge that that it will (should) be sustained.”

“For instance, NLC would (should) have opposed land border closure by the immediate past government when it was clear that in Nigeria….”

“Zamfara, C’River, Adamawa, Ogun top cholera cases (case) list”

“Imo agog as APC Flags (sic) off mother of all campaign” Get it right: mother of all campaigns

“Chief Whip stages walk out (walkout) to protest Senate president’s out-of-order ruling”

“The management of the radio station, in a statement (how else?), said his body has (had) been deposited at the Federal Medical Centre….”

“The trustees of Royal Sports Club International, Abuja (another comma) felicitate with (felicitate) you as you mark the Golden (sic) age of 50.” Write right: ‘of 50’ is an overkill!

“13 teams battle for glory as activities build-up (build up).”

Nigerians” - resilience they have fed upon like parasites for decades.

It is tempting to ask: what exactly are we celebrating? A democracy where elections are auctions for the highest bidder? An economy where the naira is a gymnast, tumbling daily without warning? A nation where power supply is still as erratic as NEPA jokes, where students lose years to strikes, and where the cost of living has become a national pastime for comedians? Independence Day has been reduced to a date on the calendar - an excuse for public holidays, not public hope.

And still, the ghosts of Orobator walk among us. Each time a civil servant is left unpaid for months, each time a patient dies at the gate of a public hospital, each time kidnappers snatch schoolchildren while governors issue empty threats, the graveyard grows fuller. The killers of Orobator are not confined to Edo State; they are nationwide. They wear agbada, red caps, babariga. They move in convoys with sirens that scatter the poor from the roads their taxes built. They bury their negligence in committees, white papers, and endless promises. And when tragedy strikes, they roll out the same tired theatre: a condolence visit, a donation of “support funds”, and pledges to sponsor children through school. It is a choreography of shame.

So what does sixty-five mean, really? It means we are now an old nation still struggling with infantile excuses. It means our leaders, having squandered the vigour of youth, are dragging us into a senile decline without the wisdom that usually accompanies age. It means that for all our oil, our talents, our sheer human

capital, we still cannot muster the will to pay salaries on time, to keep hospitals stocked, to protect villages from bandits, or to give young people a reason to stay.

Perhaps that is why Independence anniversaries now pass in whispers. There is little to cheer, little to ignite pride, little to defend when critics point out that Ghana, Rwanda, even tiny Botswana, are running circles around us. We, the supposed “giant of Africa”, are busy dozing in our own shadow, consoling ourselves with recycled slogans about being the most populous, the most resilient, the most prayerful. As if prayers alone will industrialise a nation or resurrect the dead.

In the end, one wonders whether our true national anthem should be a dirge, not a hymn. A song for the Orobators, the forgotten lecturers, nurses, policemen, farmers, teachers, pensioners, who labour without reward until despair drives them to an early grave. For them, Independence is not a day of joy but a reminder of promises broken, a reminder that freedom without responsibility is just another form of bondage.

And so, as we mark sixty-five in the dullest fashion imaginable, we must ask the hard question: are we growing, or just ageing? Because if the only thing we can boast of is survival - “we never die finish” - then the killers of Orobator might as well keep their spades ready. The graveyards will not run out of tenants.

FG Seeks Patronage for Local Auto Manufacturers, Endorses Nord Motors

Minister of Industry, trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, has endorsed the Nord automobile brand, even as she called on government agencies and the private sector to boost their patronage of Made in Nigeria products.

the Minister gave this endorsement today, October 1, 2025, being Nigeria’s 65 independence anniversary, when she visited the Nord automobile assembly plant inside the University of Lagos, UNILAG, to pick up her newly acquired Nord Demir SUV.

the Minister was received by the representative of the Vice chancellor of UNILAG, Deputy Vice chancellor, Academic and research. Prof. bola Oboh, as well as the chairman of Nord Automobiles, Mr. Oluwatobi Ajayi.

Speaking at the ocassion, the Minister said :“With the Africa continental free trade zone agreement, you should be able to scale you industrialization and your production, across Nigeria, you have two assembly plants, here and epe, and your capacity is more than enough to meet increasing demand of Nigerians and I am glad that you told me that.

“You have corporate clients, four of the top ten companies in the Nigeria Stock exchange, we are going to be encouraging the private sector and all Nigerians to patronize Made in Nigeria products, this is a proudly Made in

Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke oduwole appreciating a Nord vehicle together with the executive Chairman of Nord Automobiles, Mr. oluwatobi Ajayi, when the minister paid a visit to the Nord Assembly plant at the university of lagos... recently

Nigeria product, right here at the University of Lagos where I am a product of.

“As a ministry, we are committed to supporting your sector, and Mr. President has prioritised Nigeria First”.

Also speaking, the representative of the UNILAG Vc, Prof Oboh stated that

Spiro Nigeria Fuels

“Unilag is very proud to welcome the Minister of trade, Investment and Industry, an alumnus of the University of Lagos, one of our own who left from the faculty of Law to serve the government, as she picks up her official car, the Nord Demir, assembled at the University of Lagos.”

Innovation as Official Sponsor of E1 Grand Prix in Lagos

Spiro, Africa’s leading electric mobility company, has announced its official sponsorship of the e1 Grand Prix, the world’s first all-electric race boat championship, taking place in Lagos this weekend. this landmark event marks the debut of the e1 series in West Africa and highlights Nigeria’s growing role in the global clean energy movement.

As the e1 Grand Prix brings high-speed electric raceboats to the Lagos waterfront, Spiro’s involvement underscores its commitment to sustainable innovation and regional empowerment. The partnership reflects a shared vision for a cleaner, smarter future—on land and water.

“Spiro’s sponsorship of the e1 Grand Prix in Lagos is a testament to our commitment to sustainable innovation across borders,” said Kaushik burman, ceO of Spiro. “As electric mobility reshapes the future of transportation, we’re proud to support events that push boundaries and inspire change. Nigeria is leading the charge, and we’re honoured to be part of this historic moment.” the e1 Grand Prix is expected to draw thousands of spectators, industry leaders, and sustainability advocates from around the world. With its cutting-edge technology and zero-emission raceboats, the event is a celebration of progress and possibility.

Preparations are on top gear for this year’s annual Lagos chamber of commerce & Industry (LccI) Auto & Allied Sub-Sectoral Group Symposium scheduled to hold on Wednesday, October 8, 2025.

With, the theme, “Impact of Non-Passage of the NAIDP Policy into Law on the Automobile Industry.

Sub theme: Local component, Prospects, Opportunities And Drawbacks, key government officials, industry and allied stakeholders and other dignitaries and speakers have been invited to the event.

Among those invited are the Director-General, National Automotive Design and Development

rahul Gaur, Director of Spiro West Africa, added: “this weekend’s e1 Grand Prix is more than a race—it’s a celebration of Nigeria’s ingenuity and potential. We believe in empowering communities through clean technology, and this partnership reflects our dedication to building a greener, smarter future for the region.”

Spiro will be showcasing its electric vehicle solutions and engaging with attendees through interactive exhibits and mobility experiences. As Nigeria celebrates its Independence Week, Spiro’s sponsorship of the e1 Grand Prix is a powerful symbol of national pride and forward-thinking leadership.

Classy Abuja International Motor Fair Revs for Industry Giants, Visitors

the Organising committee of the Abuja International Motor Fair has revealed that this year’s edition is themed, “Driving the Future of Mobility in Nigeria”, and will focus on showcasing advancements in automotive technology, electric vehicles, and sustainable mobility solutions.

the Fair will take place at the eagle Square, Abuja from tuesday, November 18– Friday, November 21, 2025 from 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. daily.this landmark edition promises to be the most exciting yet, bringing together leading stakeholders in the nation’s automobile and allied sectors, according to a statement by the committee.

the event will feature exhibitions of the latest models of passenger cars, trucks, buses, motorcycles, spare parts, accessories, and services, making eagle Square a hub of automotive excellence for four days.

“It is going to be the most expansive yet, celebrating a quarter-century of showcasing the latest innovations in the automotive industry while driving commerce and consumer choice for the Nigerian market. the fair will feature a comprehensive display of vehicles, from fuel-efficient sedans and rugged SUVs to heavy-duty trucks, electric vehicles, and the latest in automotive technology and accessories”.

A Gathering of Titans and Trailblazers In a major boost for the event, Nigeria’s automotive giants have confirmed their participation, booking significant exhibition spaces.

Some of the nation’s biggest automotive brands have already secured prime exhibition spaces, ensuring an impressive lineup of vehicles and technologies. Among them are toyota Nigeria, Mikano Motors, coscharis Motors, and cedric Autos, alongside several other industry heavyweights.

Visitors can expect to see iconic models such as the toyota camry, corolla, Hilux, Land cruiser Prado, and Land cruiser 300 Series, alongside the Hiace bus and corolla cross. Also on display will be the changan cS55 Plus, changan Alsvin, Maxus t60 Pick-up, and ZNA models — each designed to deliver style, performance, and reliability.

Premium brands like Ford, bMW, Jaguar, Land rover, and Morris Garages (MG) will also showcase best-sellers including the Ford ranger, bMW X5, Jaguar e-Pace, and MG ZS SUV, while renault will display its popular line-ups.

From Jetour, models like the Dashing, X50, X70, X70 Plus, X90 Plus, t2 PHeV, and Ice cream will headline the chinese marque’s presence. exciting debutants from cedric Autos — including the Jim Pick-Up, roar bus (cNG/Petrol), and Voyah Space buses (electric & Petrol).— will also make their first public appearance at the show. this signals to the entire market that the Abuja International Motor Fair remains the undisputed platform for launching products, engaging directly with customers, and gauging market trends. We are pulling out all the stops to make this a truly unforgettable experience for exhibitors and visitors alike.”

council, (NADDc); bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the comptroller-General Nigeria customs Service ( NcS); chukwunonso Okeke, Director-General, Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON); and chief Anselm llekuba, chairman, Association of Local content Manufacturers Association Of Nigeria (ALcMAN).

Speaking at a press conference in Lagos, Dr Femi eguakhide, deputy managing director of r t briscoe Plc and chairman, Auto & Allied Sub-sectoral Group of the Lagos chamber of commerce and Industry said, that both the invited government officials and other industry players are critical to the discourse on local production, regulation, policy enforcement and import-related issues affecting the automotive sector and local industry players. the sectoral

chairman further re-affirmed the groups commitment towards delivering a robust and impactful symposium that addresses the real issues within the Nigerian automotive ecosystem. Giving more insights into this year’s event, Austin Akpovili, chairman of the Organizing committee said that, the event is generating excitement being a platform that will once again bring stakeholders together to deliberate on burning industry issues.

corporate sponsors of the Symposium are toyota Nigeria Ltd, cFAO Nigeria, bras Motors, cIG Motors, Mikano Motors Ltd, coscharis, Honda Automobile Western African (HAWA), Mandilas Motors, r t briscoe Nigeria Plc and coscharis Motors Plc.

A good number of seasoned experts have also been invited as panelists and participants.

Mona Bellucci: I’m Constantly Seeking Knowledge, Mentorship, Inspiration

For over a decade, the Mona Bellucci brand by Georgina Bellucci has been at the forefront of Nigeria’s premium events and giving space, transforming ordinary moments into extraordinary experiences. Through her brands, Events by Bellucci and Gifts by Bellucci, she has built a reputation for precision, elegance, and personalisation, setting new benchmarks for luxury in an industry often defined by fleeting trends. She reflects on her journey, the challenges of building a premium brand in Nigeria, and the philosophy that continues to drive her work in this conversation with Sunday Ehigiator

What inspired Events by Bellucci and Gifts by Bellucci, and how do they complement each other?

My love for event design and planning began in university, where I served in the arts and decorations department of my fellowship, The Abiding Word Gathering. That experience ignited something in me; I found joy in transforming spaces and creating atmospheres that made people feel special. I went on to take on small decoration jobs while in school, sometimes collaborating with a friend who shared the same passion. Those early opportunities taught me resourcefulness, creativity, and the power of detail. As I grew, I wanted to translate that passion into something more structured and premium, which led to Events by Bellucci. Later, Gifts by Bellucci emerged naturally as an extension, because beyond curating unforgettable moments, I also wanted to help clients sustain those memories through thoughtful, bespoke gifting. Together, the brands complement each other: one curates the moment, the other ensures it lingers long after.

What key moments have shaped Mona Bellucci Limited into the brand it is today?

One of the earliest defining moments for me was coordinating an event for the London School of Business and Finance. That project opened my eyes to the reality that event planning is far more than bringing vendors and guests together; it requires recurrent excellence, unwavering dedication, and meticulous attention to detail. Those lessons have shaped the way I approach every event to this day. Another turning point came when my sibling’s friend needed to gift her family for Christmas and decided to contract my services. I offered to curate and deliver them, and the satisfaction I felt, from selecting each item to the joy expressed by the recipients, was unforgettable. It showed me that gifting, when done thoughtfully, could be just as impactful as event planning. Those two experiences planted the seeds for what would eventually grow into

Bellucci

Events by Bellucci and Gifts by Bellucci. Together, they have since evolved into a multifaceted brand committed to refining and redefining excellence across both industries.

How do you maintain Events by Bellucci’s high standards despite potential challenges in the industry?

Excellence is not accidental; it is deliberate. We’ve built precision into our processes, from vendor selection to contingency planning, and we operate with an obsession for detail. I often say, precision is love in action: it shows our clients that we value their trust. Of course, challenges happen, but we anticipate them. My team is trained to think three steps ahead, so that while the preparation may be intense behind the scenes,

LASERC Issues Distribution Licences To Excel DisCo, IE Energy Lagos Ltd

The Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission (LASERC) has officially issued distribution licences to Excel Distribution Company Limited and IE Energy Lagos Limited, the entities that have now officially taken over electricity distribution operations from Eko Electricity Distribution Plc and Ikeja Electric Plc, respectively, marking a new milestone in the implementation of the Lagos State Electricity Policy and the expansion of a competitive electricity market in the State.

A statement yesterday, explained that the licence presentation ceremony, held in Lagos on Thursday.

“The event brought together amongst other stakeholders, the representatives of the new Licensees and the LASERC Commissioners, Engr. Abimbola Odubiyi (Chairman), Dr. Fouad Animashaun (the Executive Commissioner/CEO), Mrs. Kofo Olokun Olawoyin (Executive Commissioner, Legal, Licensing and Compliance), Engr Oluwaseun Fadare (Executive Commissioner, Engineering and Standards) and Mr. Tunde Gbajumo (the Non-Executive Commissioner).

At the event, Folake Soetan signed on behalf of IE Energy Lagos Limited, while Sheri Adegbenro signed for Excel Electricity Distribution Limited.

“With the newly issued licenses the implication is that Eko Electricity Distribution Plc and Ikeja Electric have ceased to exist as distribution licensees

within the Lagos Electricity Market. The legally recognised electricity distribution entities are now Excel Electricity Distribution Limited and IE Energy Lagos Limited,” it stated.

In his remarks, LASERC Chairman, Odubiyi, noted:“This is another defining moment in Lagos’ journey towards a reliable and sustainable electricity market. The Commission will continue to uphold the principles of independence, transparency, and service to the people of Lagos.”

He further thanked critical stakeholders in Lagos for their continued support and dedication to the vision of setting up the Commission. He therefore thanked very specially, The Executive Governor of Lagos State, His Excellency, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, the House of Assembly, led by the Speaker, Rt, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, the Chairman of the Power Committee, House of Assembly, Hon. Akanbi Oluwa and the Honourable Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Mr. Biodun Ogunleye.

Also speaking, Animashaun, highlighted the significance of the event, saying: “The issuance of these licences underscores our commitment to enabling private sector participation. By expanding competition, we are ensuring that Lagosians can look forward to better access, improved reliability, and affordable electricity supply.”

what our clients see is effortless grace. How have your industry affiliations impacted your work and brand opportunities?

These affiliations keep us plugged into global best practices and evolving trends. They give me access to a network of brilliant professionals whose insights sharpen our own work. They’ve also opened doors to collaborations, partnerships, and visibility we may not have achieved otherwise. More importantly, they remind me that the work we do here in Nigeria contributes to a bigger, global conversation on events and gifting.

What sets Mona Bellucci Limited apart in Nigeria’s competitive events and gifting industries?

What sets us apart is our belief that we don’t just provide services; we craft experiences. Our edge lies in personalisation, precision, and premium quality. No two projects are ever alike, because no two clients are alike. People trust us because they feel seen, understood, and celebrated, and that personal touch is something competitors cannot easily replicate.

Which client type (corporate, nonprofit, or government) presents the biggest challenge, and why?

Each audience brings unique dynamics, but I’d say corporate institutions can sometimes be the most challenging because of their complex approval processes and high expectations for detail and compliance. However, these challenges keep us sharp. They push us to be more innovative and disciplined, and once that trust is built, the relationships often become some of the most rewarding.

What unique challenges have you faced building a luxury brand in Nigeria?

Building a premium brand in Nigeria comes with its realities: infrastructure gaps, fluctuating costs, and sometimes scepticism about the value of premium services. But challenges bring clarity: you either compromise or you innovate. We chose to innovate. By educating clients on the value of premium experiences and sourcing smarter, we’ve stayed true to our vision while proving that excellence is possible, even here.

How does your personality shape your leadership style and client relationships? Being reserved allows me to listen deeply and observe what others might overlook. Clients appreciate that; they feel heard, not rushed. My refined nature shapes how I insist on excellence, both in presentation and execution. As a leader, I believe in leading by example: calm under pressure, meticulous in detail, and respectful in all interactions. That’s how I build trust, with my clients, my team, and everyone I work with.

Fubara Charges Civil Servants on Integrity, Professionalism

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt accountable.

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has charged civil servants in the State on professionalism, to uphold the values of the civil service, and shun any act of illegality in the discharge of their responsibilities.

Fubara emphasised that civil servants must remain consistent in their service, prioritising truth, fairness, and due process above personal or political interests.

The Governor gave the charge yesterday, during the swearing-in ceremony of the new Permanent Secretary, Mr. Austin Ezekiel-Hart, in Government House, Port Harcourt.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to due process and integrity, stressing that the civil service must remain the backbone of good governance.

Reflecting on past challenges during the period of emergency rule, Governor Fubara lamented that some Permanent Secretaries failed in their responsibility to safeguard due process and instead engaged in actions that undermined the principles of the service.

He warned that such conduct is unacceptable and that erring officials would ultimately be held

The Governor praised Ezekiel-Hart for his professionalism and refusal to compromise his integrity despite pressures, noting that his steadfastness and principled stance earned him the new appointment.

He pointed out that the appointee’s colleagues could attest to his record of doing the right thing even in difficult circumstances.

He stressed that no directive, regardless of its source, should override established rules and procedures, assuring that his administration would never pressure officers to act outside the law.

He reiterated that his government is more focused on tangible results than on rhetoric, adding that all appointments are based strictly on merit, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to service.

The Governor explained that Ezekiel-Hart’s elevation reflected his choice to stand as a true professional, and that his administration expects every official to act rightly so that history will judge them well.

Governor Fubara concluded by urging the new Permanent Secretary to justify his elevation with improved performance, reminding him of the greater responsibilities attached to the office, while assuring him of the government’s full support.

INTERVIEW

Joke Aliu: Legal Excellence Tool for National Development

AsAfrica’slegalindustryundergoesrapidtransformation, one thing is clear: firms that will define the future are those that combine deep local expertise with panAfrican reach, innovation, and a strong talent pipeline. For Joke Aliu, Co-Managing Partner at Aluko & Oyebode | ALN Nigeria, this vision has guided her leadership since stepping into the role in 2023. In this conversation, she reflects on the defining moments of her tenure so far, the firm’s commitment to client-centred innovation and sustainable growth, and how Aluko & Oyebode is shaping the future of legal practice across Nigeria and the continent. Sunday Okobi brings the excerpt

You’vebeenCo-ManagingPartner at Aluko & Oyebode since 2023. Looking back, what have been the most defining moments of your leadership so far?

Stepping into this role on January 9, 2023, as co-Managing Partner has been a journey marked by several defining moments. Perhaps the most symbolic was our 2024 rebrand to Aluko & Oyebode | ALN Nigeria. This was not just a new name; it was communicating a firm promise to our clients: seamless, pan-African execution across 15 jurisdictions. Our membership and leadership within theAfrica Legal Network are foundational to this promise. With our Of Counsel, Gbenga Oyebode, as ALN’s Chair and my role on the ALN Board, we ensure that Nigeria has a place in shaping the future of legal services on the continent. Another moment was in February 2024, when we appointed five homegrown partners, achieving a gender-balanced partnership of 12 women and 12 men. This was a demonstration of our commitment to excellence and growth, and this commitment also explains why clients trust our ability to shape the market.

Since taking on the role, what strategic priorities have you focused on to strengthen the firm’s position in Nigeria’s legal market?

Since I stepped into this role, our priorities have been laser-focused on a dual vision: cementing our position as Nigeria’s undisputed top-tier law firm while simultaneously leading the future of legal practice across Africa. We achieve this through three core pillars: client-centred innovation, nurturing future-ready talent, and driving sustainable growth. For us, innovation is about delivering measurable value by deploying the

Adegbola

right technology and resources. We have deployed a suite of integrated tools to enhance both transparency and efficiency. This approach has earned us accolades like being referred to as a ‘Centre of Excellence’ by key clients. We know that our greatest assets are the brilliant minds that build our brand every day. We invest deeply in our people, starting with our Early Career Programme designed to equip them at the start of their careers, and our structured mentorship programmes alongside other support programmes. Finally, we believe in sustainable growth, measured not just by our balance sheet, but by our impact. Thus, our financial strength is matched by our commitment to ESG, from adopting solar power to championing the single-use plastics bill. We scale this vision across the continent through the ALN. This holistic strategy, which fuses local strength with pan-African leadership, is why we consistently maintain our Tier 1 rankings. In all these areas, our objective is unequivocal market leadership, not mere participation.

The legal industry is undergoing shifts in client expectations, technology adoption, and regulatory complexity. How is the firm adapting to stay ahead?

The legal industry is indeed transforming, and we are intentionally staying ahead of these shifts by embedding a forward-looking, client-centric ethos into what we do. Our first focus is on smarter execution. We believe technology must serve the client, not the other way around. We have fully integrated a suite of tools, including our due diligence platform and legal knowledge management system, the litigation schedule platform, CRM, and Enterprise Resource Planner to deliver faster, higher-quality work and greater cost predictability for our clients. Beyond the transactional, we focus on creating deeper partnerships. We

Gallery Opens

in Lagos with Landmark Independence Day Exhibition

Adegbola Art Projects has announced the opening of Adegbola Gallery, a new contemporary art space in Victoria Island, Lagos.

Founded by lawyer and cultural entrepreneur Kayode Adegbola, the gallery opens with its inaugural exhibition, ‘Heroes Past’, a timely reflection on leadership, identity, and memory, on view from October 1, 2025, Nigeria’s Independence Day.

Adegbola, a well-respected force in Nigeria’s art scene, represents a new generation of African leaders working across art, business, and media.

Through Adegbola Art Projects, his curatorial and advisory platform, he has spent over 15 years building infrastructure for Nigerian artists, championing both established masters and emerging talent.

With Adegbola Gallery, he establishes a new home for serious curatorial ambition, rooted in the local context yet attuned to global conversations.

Conceived as a travelling institutional exhibition, Heroes Past opened as the inaugural exhibition at Adegbola Gallery. The exhibition features rarely seen

paintings, sculptures, photographs, and archival paraphernalia honouring Nigeria’s pre- and postindependence leaders, and includes works by Akinola Lasekan, Uche Okeke, Ben Enwonwu, Oyerinde Olotu, Rufus Ogundele, Lady Head, and Doreen Kern. Unfolding across media and generations, the show offers a powerful meditation on how art has shaped and challenged national narratives.

On launching the gallery and its inaugural exhibition Heroes Past, Adegbola, founder of Adegbola Gallery, said,“Now feels like the right time because Nigeria is at an inflection point. A generation of artists, collectors, and audiences are maturing simultaneously. I wanted to create a community that responds to the moment – by elevating critical dialogue, finding and showcasing exceptional work, and building lasting value around our culture.

“Heroes Past will include paintings and sculptures by Akinola Lasekan, Uche Okeke, Ben Enwonwu, Lady Head, Oyerinde Olotu, Rufus Ogundele, Doreen Kern, as well as archival images and related paraphernalia. I’m really excited about it because of the combination of beauty, historical relevance and educational value.

do this through insight-led engagement at scale, from our 100 Women GC roundtables, our Finance Masterclass for in-house counsel, to our Project Finance training that reached over 250 attendees. This commitment to building our clients’ own capacity positions us as true strategic partners. Finally, we help our clients to future-proof their businesses. Our bespoke Telecommunication, Media, Entertainment & Technology, Fintech, and Governance, Risk & Compliance practices are designed to navigate complex regulatory terrains, while our work on ESG policy, such as drafting the single-use plastics bill, helps align client goals with societal progress. This extends to the entire business ecosystem.

Aluko & Oyebode has been instrumental in shaping legal frameworks in sectors like energy, telecoms, and finance. How do you balance your clients’priorities and the overall good of Nigeria?

We are guided by our core values. However, we do not see our clients’ priorities and the overall good of Nigeria as a balancing act. We see it as a single act of building a stronger Nigeria.Advancing our clients’ commercial success and strengthening Nigeria’s legal and economic ecosystem are not conflicting goals.

Every time we help strengthen Nigeria’s rule of law, we are also protecting the very investments and opportunities our clients entrust us with. That is what responsible lawyering is. Therefore, for us, leadership is not a choice between legal excellence and societal impact; it is the fusion of

the two. This philosophy is embedded in every aspect of our work. We believe a thriving private sector and a strong national economy are two sides of the same coin. When we advise on finance that builds markets, such as the expansion of key financial institutions acrossAfrica, we are helping a champion deepen the region’s financial system. When we provide regulatory foresight to one of Nigeria’s first MVNO licence holders, we enable principled innovation while ensuring market stability. Even in contentious matters, we pair vigorous advocacy with a profound respect for the rule of law. Beyond our commercial mandates, we have a deep commitment to shaping a sustainable future. This is an active investment in our nation’s framework.Apart from contributing to the global Oxford Net Zero Policy Survey launched at the COP29, we are partnering organisations such as the Nigerian Conservation Foundation and Teach For Nigeria, reaching approximately 800 students. Ultimately, legal excellence is not an end in itself but a tool for national development.

As part of the Africa Legal Network (ALN), Aluko & Oyebode can serve clients across 15 African jurisdictions. How has this network enhanced your client service and deal execution capabilities?

In today’s interconnected Africa, legal advice cannot stop at the border, and our membership in ALN is our strategic answer to this reality. The ALN promise is simple but powerful

Owie, Imasuen, Others Advocate Love, Unity at Benin Summit

Former Senate Chief Whip, Senator Roland Owie, Senator Ehigie Uzamere, Senator Neda Imasuen, and many other leaders of Benin extraction, have advocated the need for the Benin-speaking people to be united and pursue a common purpose that will drive development in the area.

They made the call at the maiden edition of the Benin Unity Summit held in Benin City.

Speaking at the Summit, Owie said that the good moral values for which the Benin nation is known must be promoted in all their ramifications to build a prosperous nation.

He urged the womenfolk to continue praying to God on behalf of the Benin nation, as their prayers are often answered due to their deep commitment to God.

The former senator further called on the sons and daughters of the Edo south senatorial district to reawaken the values of honesty and love, which they were once known for.

For the former senator representing the Edo South senatorial district, Senator Ehigie Uzamere, he appealed to the sons and daughters of the senatorial district to shun jealousy, hatred and work in harmony for the interest of the Benin nation.

He further cautioned people of the senatorial district to desist from casting aspersions on the royal throne of the Oba of Benin and the traditional institution on the social media.

He said the monarch is the symbol of respect and dignity of the Benin nation and must be respected and treated as such.

For the current senator representing the Edo South senatorial district, Senator Neda Imasuen, the problem militating against the Benin nation is that nobody wants to pay the sacrifice but everyone wants to be a leader, noting that such attitude can’t bring about upliftment to the Benin nation.

Bashir Adewale Adeniyi as Epitome of Lifelong Learning

By earning a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Leadership and Security Studies from the Institute of Governance and Development Studies, College of Post Graduate Studies, Federal University Lokoja, the Comptroller-General, Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi has shown that true leadership is inseparable from lifelong learning, writes Prosper Taiwo

In a nation where public service often consumes every waking hour, leaving little room for personal development, the Comptroller-General (CG), Nigeria Customs Service, Dr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has demonstrated that the human capacity for excellence is only limited by discipline and vision.

At a time when many assumed that his responsibilities as head of one of Nigeria’s most complex government agencies would leave no space for academic pursuits, Adeniyi did the extraordinary by earning a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Leadership and Security Studies from the Institute of Governance and Development Studies, College of Post Graduate Studies, Federal University Lokoja.

This feat is not just a personal triumph. It is a rebuke to the culture of excuses, a symbol of perseverance, and a lesson in the transformative power of education in leadership.

Adeniyi, who is preparing for his convocation in the coming weeks, began his doctorate programme in 2022. At the time, it was largely seen as one of his many commitments, pursued alongside the enormous demands of public service. Balancing leadership responsibilities with the rigours of doctoral research was no easy feat, and few believed he could sustain the journey.

According to his close associates, it was not until 2023 that he truly committed himself to the programme, carving out time in his packed schedule to focus on research, writing, and academic engagement. By 2024, his determination became even more evident, as he reportedly immersed himself fully in the work, often spending late nights and early mornings poring over materials and refining his thesis. This shift in focus demonstrated a remarkable sense of discipline and resilience, qualities that defined both his academic and professional pursuits.

Now, as he prepares to don the doctoral gown, Adeniyi’s story stands as a testimony to perseverance and the pursuit of knowledge against the odds. His journey underscores the idea that success in academia, much like in leadership, requires not just intellect but also commitment, consistency, and a willingness to push through challenges. For many, his achievement is both an inspiration and a reminder that lifelong learning is a powerful tool for personal and professional growth.

Born on January 19th, 1966, CG Adeniyi hails from Modakeke, Ife East LGA of Osun State. He is a 1987 graduate of the University of Ife, Ile-Ife, Nigeria (Now Obafemi Awolowo University), where he bagged a Bachelor of Science in International Relations.

He also obtained a Master of Communication Science from USI, Lugano, Switzerland, in 2013. He was enlisted into the Nigeria Customs Service as a Cadet officer in 1990. After his training, he was posted to TinCan Island Port, Apapa Lagos, as an Assistant Superintendent from March 1991 to May 1996.

In June 1996, he was redeployed from Tincan Island Port, Apapa Lagos, to the then Economic Relations Research and Planning Department Customs Headquarters, Abuja, where he worked until February 2001.

In March 2001, he was appointed Customs Public Relations Officer, a post he held until December 2016, when he was deployed to Apapa Port Area Command, Lagos, from December 2016 – March 2017.

He served as the Deputy Commandant, Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College, Gwagwalada, Abuja, from March 2017 – July 2019. From August 2019 to February 2020, he served as a Customs Area Controller at Murtala Mohammed International Airport Command, Lagos. He was the Commandant, Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College Gwagwalada, Abuja, from February

2020 until his appointment as the Acting Deputy Comptroller General in charge of Strategic Research and Policy on 12 January 2023 and later confirmed by the Nigeria Customs Service Board during its 57th regular meeting on 4th May 2023.

He was subsequently appointed as the Acting Comptroller General of Customs by President Bola Tinubu on June 19th, 2023, and was confirmed as substantive 31st Comptroller General of Customs on October 19, 2023.

Adeniyi attended both National and international courses such as Strategic Leadership and Management Development at the World Customs Organisation, in Brussels in September 2016; Mastering Trade Policy at Harvard University, in August 2015; Strategic and Crisis Communication at the University of California (UCLA), August 2012; Transformation Initiatives Leadership Training in Toronto, Canada, May 2012, and Strategic Communication Columbia University in New York, August 2009.

He is also a member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and a former Vice-President of the Governing Board and Fellow of the Institute; member of the International Public Relations Association (IPRA); Fellow, Nigerian Institute for International Affairs among several others.

In June this year, the Customs boss was elected chairperson of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Council. Adeniyi’s appointment marked a milestone for Nigeria, as he became the first Nigerian to head the 73-year-old organisation with 186 member countries.

“I am deeply grateful for my election as Chairperson of the Council. I want to acknowledge the exceptional work of my predecessor, whose guidance and stability provided strong leadership for the Council,”Adeniyi had said on his WCO appointment.

“Specifically, I hope to build on the

progress made so far in the development of the Strategic Plan for 2025-2028 and I look forward to working with the Secretariat and the Vice-Chairs towards its diligent implementation and WCO modernisation,” he had added.

As chairperson, Adeniyi provides strategic leadership to the WCO Policy Commission, steering the global customs agenda and facilitating high-level discussions on trade facilitation, revenue optimisation, security, cross-border cooperation, and digital transformation.

President Tinubu has consistently praised Adeniyi, acknowledging that revenue collection has increased under his leadership. Tinubu said the Customs under Adeniyi has consistently surpassed budgetary targets, improved relations with various stakeholders, modernised operations and digitalised processes for effectiveness

The President recently approved a oneyear extension for the Comptroller-General. His tenure was originally due to expire on August 31, 2025.

The tenure extension would enable Adeniyi to consolidate ongoing reforms and complete strategic initiatives under the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Adeniyi has since his appointment in 2023, led several transformational initiatives aimed at repositioning the Service for greater efficiency, transparency, and alignment with global trade standards.

Among the critical projects highlighted are: the continued modernisation of the Nigeria Customs Service, the full rollout of the National Single Window Project, and the effective implementation of Nigeria’s commitments under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) protocol.

Adeniyi has spearheaded a wave of institutional transformation, blending professionalism with innovation to modernise Customs operations and reposition the agency as a critical enabler of economic growth.

The Customs plays a vital role in the country’s economic framework, serving as a gatekeeper for revenue collection and national security at the borders.

With the AfCFTA now entering critical stages of execution, the administration’s decision signals a continued emphasis on trade integration, digital systems enhance-

ment, and cross-border efficiency.

Under Adeniyi’s watch, the NCS has witnessed significant improvements in trade facilitation, revenue generation, and border security. His emphasis on digitisation, transparency, and compliance has helped close loopholes, enhance efficiency, and boost stakeholder confidence in the agency’s processes.

The Customs CG who is working on initiatives to further ensure modernise Customs operations, has also pledged his commitment to ensuring that the recently launched B’Odogwu system is transformed into a first-class trade facilitation platform for the country.

Adeniyi said with all the clarity of the system, they are now resolute to transform the platform into a world class trade facilitation platform for trade modernisation. According to him, “Technology is not cheap. As we migrate from one system to the other, we make a lot of investments in technology rollouts. We are going to be talking about scanners, system upgrades, and all of that. And our plan is to make B’Odogwu a reference point in trade facilitation.

“Now that the chairmanship of the WCO is with us, we also want to show the world that we can take in our trade, manage it by a system that is indigenously developed. So at the end, in the next three years, it is going to be Oduku to the world, and Nigerians will see that we have a system that can work. However, technology everywhere is capital intensive.”

B’Odogwu is a locally developed digital trade facilitation and integration system introduced by the Nigeria Customs Service.

The Comptroller General has also, within a short period of time, through the instrumentality of synergy, substantially cleared several of the illegal checkpoints on the Lagos-Abidjan trade corridor, which had before now, constituted a serious hindrance to the free flow of legitimate trade.

The Customs management is currently optimising implementation of the Nigeria Customs Service Trade Modernisation Project TMP, which is aimed at further promoting trade facilitation. When fully operational, the project would enhance a unified Customs management system, trade portal, and cargo release system.

What also stands out in Adeniyi’s tenure is his people-centred leadership style. His open-door policy and hands-on engagement with personnel and external stakeholders alike have created a more responsive, performance-driven culture across Customs commands.

At the heart of his reforms is a belief that the Service must not only generate revenue but also contribute meaningfully to national development by easing the cost of doing business and protecting local industries from illicit trade.

Adeniyi, recently declared that the service recorded unprecedented seizures that have made the country safer for Nigerians.

He said, “Nothing gladdens me more than the fact that the whole world is taking notes of the advances that we are making, the impact that trade facilitation initiative is making in the system. This is the position that we now have to defend in the years ahead.

“We must reposition ourselves to be seen as the government agency that is constant, that is respected, and that is responsible.”

Indeed, that Adeniyi carved out time for rigorous academic pursuit that requires sleepless nights, meticulous research, critical thinking, and unyielding commitment is nothing short of extraordinary. Beyond personal glory, this story holds deeper implications for governance in Nigeria.Nigeria is in dire need of leaders who read, think, research, and learn. Adeniyi has shown us the way. The rest of us—citizens and leaders alike—must now follow

Ferdinand Ekechukwu - 08035011394

Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

Uzoamaka

Aniunoh: I Always Knew I Would Be An Actor, What I Didn’t Know Was When, How

Uzoamaka Aniunoh emerged as ‘Cynthia’ on MTV Shuga years back and has since appeared in other great films. Having had an intriguing career run, Uzor, as she’s fondly called, has taken on daring roles, playing the main character in the highly controversial LGBTQ+ film, ‘Ife’ and have been challenged with daring roles. The writer, poet, and actor, tells more about her fascinating life and family in this fascinating conversation with Ferdinand Ekechukwu

tellusabitaboutyourjourney intoactingandwhatattracted you?

I always knew I was going to be an actor. What I didn’t know was when and how. My first realisation was watching the Sound of Music and seeing Maria being free and fantastic. My second realisation was watching Nollywood movies and seeing people like Genevieve Nnaji, Stephanie Okereke, Dakore egbuson, Oge Okoye etc. I wanted to be like them. I learned their lines and re-enacted them in front of a mirror. With Maria in Sound of Music, it was her free spirit and the way she held a scene with her smile and voice. I thought it was powerful. With the Nollywood actors, it was their mannerisms, their fashions and their stubbornness, their boldness. I knew I wanted to be in their world.

Werethereanychallengesfromfamily/friends inthecourseofventuringintoacting?

Yes. My father’s idea of work was in an office. Anything outside of that he saw as a waste of time. I think, though, that he came around slightly when someone sent him chimamanda Adichie’s words about my excerpt that she published. I think he felt that if Ms. Adichie knows Uzoamaka and says she’s good, then Uzoamaka may actually be up to something.

Tellusaboutyourbackground,growingup, andwhatfondmemorydoyouhold?

I am the first of four children. I grew up on the fourth floor of a four-storey building in Fegge, Onitsha. My strict father owned the building and so everyone in the neighborhood called my siblings and I ‘umu landlord’. My father was a trader and my mother, a Fine Arts teacher. We weren’t allowed to go downstairs, even on errands, so we made friends through the bars of our burglar-proof balcony.

I remember once when my mother helped me with my geography assignment in primary four. She drew the map of Africa for me, and when I got to school, I was punished to my utter surprise because my drawing was too perfect. When I told my mother that day, she called my teacher jealous. I laugh every time I remember it.

Wouldyousayyouhavefoundfulfillment inacting?

If I say I have found fulfillment in it, it feels like an end to a long search, and now I get to rest forever. I love acting, and I love every art form that I’m called to express through. And every time I work as an artist, I feel a slice of fulfillment that hopefully carries me to the next expression or work. So, it’s never full. Sometimes it’s a spoonful, sometimes it’s a slice, if you’re lucky, it’s a plate. It’s like that, in small doses.

Whatchallengesyouasanactress?Isthere anyroleyoucan’tplay?

I am constantly challenged by my previous work. I want to do better, be better. I watch people I admire in the film industry and I know that if I continue doing excellent work consistently, it’ll only be a matter of time. Yes, there are roles I would not play— characters that exist for no reason in stories that don’t move you.

Youareknownasanactorandwriter,which didyoustartwithfirstandhow?

I started writing first. I wrote something at every small opportunity I got. On Facebook for instance, I shared my thoughts and daily experiences that then transformed into a reality blog back in 2014. then I turned in a story to the Farafina Writing Workshop taught by chimamanda Adichie, and I got accepted. that served as a kind of validation for me. I decided to take writing a little more seriously.

Haveyouwrittenanybookyet?Isthereany book/novelprojectinthemaking?

I did start something that’s been put on hold. A memoir. As soon as I finish it, l will do well to scream it to the world.

Whatexcitesyoumostasanartist,andwhat inspiresyou?

I am mostly excited about the endless possibilities, the routes a character can take you, the process of achieving a vision. I love reading a script and trying to figure out things before I get to the end of it. I like knowing a story and already picturing the scenes. I am inspired by life, people, and experiences. I am an observer, in real life and in online spaces. I like to watch people be and react, and I wonder what it is about their life that’s prompted this particular reaction. Would they behave differently if they suddenly came into money, or if they were born into money? Life is such a movie.

Whathastheexperiencebeenlikesincegetting into acting and to what extent has it affected yourlifestyle?

It’s been a learning field for me. I’ve seen the huge difference getting comfortable in front of the camera makes in one’s delivery and how preparation stands you out. Also, how it’s not about you, it’s about the story, so unless you’re doing a solo performance, you’re working with your co-actors collaboratively for the success of the story. I don’t think acting has affected my lifestyle. I’m still the same girl, maybe with a little more money.

What’sthemostexpensivegiftitemyouhave everreceived,orlet’ssay,mostexpensivematerial possession?

It would be my car. My father came to Lagos from the east, bought it for me, and went back to the east the same day. A flex I love. It was the last thing he gave me before his passing.

Tellusyourlikesanddislikes;yourhobbies; turnon,turn-offs;phobias,yourfavouritefood, favouritecolour,andthingslikethat?

I am a human being who happens to be an artist. I love life, I believe in the universe’s love for me, and I don’t think twice before saying yes to things that make living much more enjoyable. I love music, especially jazz and soul. I dance like no one is watching, I enjoy a good glass of red wine occasionally, and I would rarely turn down a plate of garri and oha soup. I love red and yellow colours. I love it when people stay true to themselves and exist authentically in this world, because what use is it if everyone behaves and dresses alike owing to the fact we’ve been told that it is how we’re supposed to be to be accepted or be cool? that’s boring.

Lagos Cocktail Week 2025 Returns Bigger, Better

cocktails take center Stage as Africa’s biggest cocktail experience returns, upgraded like never before.

the Lagos cocktail Week 2025 (LcW) will take place from Friday, October 17th – 24th, 2025, featuring a full week of epic bar hops, exclusive brand collaborations, and unforgettable experiences - all leading up to the grand finale at the Cocktail Village. the weeklong event would span multiple

locations across the city, culminating at the Cocktail Village at Balmoral Convention centre, Lagos. For over a decade, LcW has been the ultimate meeting point where cocktail enthusiasts, international brands, and lifestyle lovers converge.

Among the array of brands, sponsors, as the Lagos cocktail Week 2025 promises an exciting experience, including Lagos State Ministry of tourism Arts & culture, eventi cocktails, Federal Palace Hotel, balmoral events, tanqueray, remy Martin, and Johnnie Walker blonde.

Other partners include Don Julio tequila, Jack Daniels, Gin Mare, Schweppes, Gordons

Folabi Nuel: Creative Force Behind Music of YouTube’s Hit Series ‘The Wives’

the Youtube original series ‘the Wives,’ directed by award-winning filmmaker Orire Nwani, has quickly become a viral success.

In just a matter of weeks, the series has surpassed one million views, capturing the attention of audiences worldwide.

A key element driving the show’s impact is its music, supervised, written, and produced by acclaimed artist and music director, Folabi Nuel. Known for his innovative sound and artistic versatility, Nuel’s work brings a unique depth to the series, complementing the storytelling and heightening the emotional experience for viewers. From original compositions to precise

musical supervision, his contributions have become an integral part of the series’ identity. Nuel’s ability to fuse music with narrative underscores his reputation as one of the most exciting and influential creatives in today’s entertainment landscape.As ‘the Wives’ continues its upward trajectory, Folabi Nuel’s role highlights the indispensable power of music in shaping unforgettable stories. His contribution goes beyond melodies, weaving soundscapes that elevate the emotional depth of each scene, draw the audience closer to the characters, and create moments that linger long after the curtain falls. by blending creativity with intention, he demonstrates how music can transform a production into an experience, making the Wives not just a performance but a lasting memory for its audience.

Gin, Don royale, Origin bitters, JJ corry, bold ‘98, Lord’s Gin, Calypso, Da Vinci gourmet syrup, Nestle Pure Life, TVC, MAX FM, and the Sip Pass. this year, LcW is stepping it up with masterclasses, culinary experiences, and unique collaborations. this year’s event blends cocktails, culture, culinary infusions and creativity, with experiences across the city.

Highlights will showcase immersive masterclasses, hands-on industry workshops, and the Cocktail Village Grand Finale + Bar Battle, a thrilling festival showdown showcasing both local and international talent.

Speaking on what attendees can expect this year, LcW founder Lara rawa, says, “cocktails have become more than just drinks—they’re part of our lifestyle. With Lagos cocktail Week 2025, we’re pushing boundaries, creating spaces where people can connect, learn, and experience cocktails in new ways that blend seamlessly into their lifestyle.”

Launched in 2014, Lagos cocktail Week was founded with the aim of highlighting the pinnacle of Nigeria’s cocktail culture. Its overarching objective is to solidify the recognition of the cocktail industry as a vital component of the Nigerian beverage sector.

Osajele’s Debut Single, ‘It Belongs to You’ Now Streaming

Tosin Clegg

After weeks of anticipation, Manchester-based pastor and gospel artist ekes Osajele has officially released his debut single, ‘It belongs to You’, now available across all major streaming platforms.

the Living Faith church (Winners chapel) minister, who has long balanced his calling in ministry, family, and business, steps into the gospel music scene with a track rooted deeply in personal testimony.

Osajele’s journey into music was not straightforward. though blessed with the gift of singing, he never saw it as his calling until a harrowing health crisis changed everything. Diagnosed with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), he faced sleepless nights, fatigue, and fear for the future. turning wholly to prayer and worship, he

experienced what he describes as divine healing.

“God healed me supernaturally,” he recalls. “the doctors couldn’t explain it, but I knew it was His hand.”

It was in that season of restoration that songs began to rise in his spirit.

“It belongs to You” is the first expression of that gift, a worship anthem declaring that healing, blessings, and victories ultimately belong to God. Speaking on the release, Osajele said, “this song is a reminder that God is still a healer, still a miracle worker, and still worthy of our worship. My prayer is that it ministers to anyone going through silent battles, just as God ministered to me.”

With ‘It belongs to You’, Osajele steps boldly into gospel music, bringing the same message of faith he preaches from the pulpit into song. For him, the mission is simple: every track is a testimony, and this one declares that everything belongs to Him.

As Retiree, I Now Dedicate Time to Family, Mentoring Young Professionals Iheanyi Anyahara:

After more than two decades of distinguished service in Nigeria’s regulatory space, Dr. Iheanyi Anyahara, a firstclass honours graduate from University of Nigeria, Nsukka, who retired from the Financial Reporting Council as Coordinating Director, Directorates of Accounting Standards (Public Sectors) and Sustainability Reporting Unit last year, has transitioned into a new chapter of life that blends professional reinvention with personal fulfillment. Having played a pivotal role in the adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards and International Public Sector Accounting Standards in Nigeria, his career has been defined by integrity, precision, and an unwavering commitment to accountability. Yet, retirement from public service has not meant slowing down; instead, it has opened a new avenue for impact. Through his firm, Regulatory Compliance Readiness Advisors Limited, Anyahara, who at some point acted as the CEO of the FRC, is today helping organisations shift from reactive compliance to proactive readiness, embedding resilience and governance into their DNA. Dike Onwuamaeze brings the excerpts:

You retired after more than two decades in regulatory service, how has the transition into private practice and entrepreneurship been for you personally?

The transition has been both exciting and humbling. After over 20 years in regulatory service, I developed a deep appreciation for the challenges organisations face in meeting compliance expectations. Moving into private practice has allowed me to channel that experience into tailored advisory work, helping businesses and institutions prepare for and adapt to evolving regulatory demands. Personally, it has been fulfilling to apply my knowledge in a more flexible environment, while also building a legacy through entrepreneurship.

Outside the world of numbers, reporting standards, and regulations, what does a typical day in your life look like now?

I value balance. A typical day often begins with quiet reflection and reading—sometimes professional literature, sometimes history or biographies. I also dedicate time to family, mentoring young professionals, and staying active in my community. This variety helps me remain grounded and brings fresh perspectives that I carry into my professional work.

How do you balance your academic, professional, and family responsibilities with the demands of leading a new firm?

Discipline and prioritisation are key. I approach my responsibilities with a structured mindset: ensuring that academic commitments enhance, rather than compete with, my advisory work; carving out family time that is sacrosanct; and relying on a strong support system. I believe balance is not about dividing time equally, but about giving each responsibility the attention it deserves at the right moment.

You played a key role in Nigeria’s transition to IFRS and IPSAS. Looking back, what impact do you think these frameworks have had on transparency in Nigeria’s financial reporting?

The adoption of IFRS and IPSAS marked a turning point for Nigeria. These frameworks elevated the quality and comparability of financial information, fostering greater investor confidence and aligning Nigeria with global best practices. While challenges remain in full compliance and enforcement, the progress has been significant in promoting accountability and transparency across both public and private sectors.

What do you consider the biggest corporate governance challenge Nigerian companies still face today?

The greatest challenge remains the culture of weak enforcement. While regulatory frameworks exist, compliance is often treated as a box-ticking exercise rather than a governance philosophy. Board independence, ethical leadership, and transparency

need to be embraced as strategic imperatives, not regulatory burdens. Strengthening enforcement and building corporate governance culture will be critical for Nigeria’s economic future.

Sustainability reporting is now a global hot topic. How ready are Nigerian firms, especially public sector institutions, to comply with emerging ESG and sustainability standards?

Nigerian firms are at varying levels of readiness. Some multinationals and large corporates have begun integrating ESG principles, but many local firms and public sector institutions are still in the early stages. There is a pressing need for capacity building, awareness creation, and alignment with global sustainability frameworks. My view is that readiness will require a phased approach, supported by strong regulatory guidance and advisory support.

From your experience at the Financial Reporting Council, how can Nigeria strengthen its fight against financial misreporting and money laundering?

The fight must be multi-pronged: Stronger regulatory enforcement with real consequences for offenders; better inter-agency collaboration, especially between regulators, law enforcement, and financial institutions; enhanced whistleblower protections to encourage reporting of misconduct, and continuous training for professionals to detect and prevent financial misreporting. Ultimately, integrity and accountability must be built into the culture of both public and private institutions.

What gap did you see in Nigeria’s regulatory compliance landscape that motivated you to establish Regulatory Compliance Readiness Advisors Limited?

I observed that many organisations view compliance as reactive—something to address only when regulators come knocking. This leads to last-minute fixes, penalties, and reputational risks. I wanted to create a firm that shifts the focus from reactive compliance to proactive readiness, helping organisations embed compliance into their strategy and culture. A novel initiative, you may call it. Only very few ethical organisations appreciate the idea but I have no doubt that over time, entities in our jurisdiction will come to realise that to be resilient, you need to embed integrity and accountability into their DNA.

What services will your new firm focus on, and who are your target clients—public sector, private companies, or both?

Our firm will provide regulatory compliance advisory, sustainability reporting guidance, anti-money laundering readiness assessments, and corporate governance support. We intend to serve both public sector institutions and private companies, recognising that compliance challenges cut across these spheres. Each client group requires a tailored approach, but both stand to benefit from a readiness mindset.

How does your firm plan to support organisations in navigating complex regulatory changes, especially around sustainability and

anti-money laundering rules?

We will adopt a three-pillar approach: Education & Awareness – providing training and workshops to demystify new rules; Advisory & Strategy –guiding organisations in embedding compliance into their operational strategies; monitoring & Support – offering ongoing support to track changes, assess risks, and ensure continuous compliance. This holistic model ensures organisations are not just compliant today but prepared for the future.

What will make Regulatory Compliance Readiness Advisors stand out from other consulting firms in the same space?

What sets us apart is lived experience. Having worked at the heart of Nigeria’s regulatory framework, I bring insider knowledge of how policies are shaped, enforced, and interpreted. We combine that regulatory insight with practical, tailored advisory services that help organisations move beyond compliance into resilience and sustainability. Our goal is not just to keep clients compliant, but to position them as leaders in transparency and governance. Furthermore, we partner with individuals and organization globally leveraging on my vast network and social capital to ensure nothing short of the best is offered to our clients.

A few days ago, you were appointed Chairman for Advancing Sustainability and Integrated Reporting in Africa by Pan African Federation of Accountants (PAFA). What does the appointment entail and what is the objective of PAFA?

Being appointed Chairman of the Pan African Federation of Accountants (PAFA) is both an honor and a profound responsibility. The appointment entails providing strategic leadership to PAFA as the recognized continental forum for advancing accountancy, sustainability, and integrated reporting in Africa. It means steering the Federation’s agenda so that Africa’s accountants and institutions are equipped not only for traditional financial reporting, but also for emerging demands in sustainability disclosure, ESG, and integrated thinking.

The objective of PAFA is to build a strong, unified, and future-ready accountancy profession in Africa—one that upholds high standards of transparency, ethics, and accountability, and contributes directly to sustainable economic growth. Specifically, PAFA works to: Strengthen national professional accountancy organisations; champion adoption and implementation of international standards (financial reporting, auditing, and sustainability), serve as a convener for thought leadership on integrated reporting and sustainable finance, and position the African profession as a partner in shaping global standard-setting conversations. In short, this appointment is about ensuring that Africa’s accountants are at the forefront of advancing credible sustainability reporting and integrated reporting, so that the profession can help drive trust, investment, and long-term value creation for our continent.

Tax Reforms: Tasks Ahead of Businesses, Finance Professionals

beyond their macroeconomic implications, Nigeria’s new tax laws place fresh responsibilities on businesses and finance professionals, particularly in the area of compliance. to minimise risks and maximise opportunities, companies and individuals must begin adjusting well ahead of the January 1, 2026 rollout.

these reforms are designed to cover all economic classes—employers, employees, and even self-employed “hustlers”, all confronted with a new tax reality. the overarching goal is to expand Nigeria’s tax net, improve revenue generation, and strengthen fiscal liquidity. the laws, published in the official gazette, include the Nigeria tax Act (NtA), the Nigeria tax Administration Act (NtAA), the Joint revenue board (establishment) Act (JrbeA), and the Nigeria revenue Service establishment Act (NrSeA), all aim to streamline the tax system, broaden the tax base, and aim to promote economic growth.

chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and tax reforms committee, taiwo Oyedele explained that the reforms grant high exemption thresholds for small companies, exempting those with turnover not exceeding N100 million and fixed assets below N250 million from tax.

“For larger companies, the corporate tax rate will fall from 30 per cent to 25 per cent, subject to presidential approval on the advice of the National economic council.

“Additional measures include top-up tax exemption thresholds of N50 billion for local firms and €750 million for multinationals,

plus a 5 per cent annual tax credit for investments in eligible priority sectors. businesses conducting foreign currency transactions now also have the option to pay taxes in Naira at the prevailing official exchange rate.

“For individuals, the reforms introduce a tax exemption for low-income earners, making those with annual taxable income of N800,000 or less after reliefs and allowances fully exempt from personal income tax,”

OTH er Bu SIN e SS STO r I e S

he clarified.

While some critics warned that the reforms may worsen the financial burden on Nigerians, Finance Minister Wale edun insists they will improve household spending power.

“this will put more money, more purchasing power in the hands of those at the lower end of the scale,” he said. “that is good for business as well, because people need purchasing power to buy goods”, he affirmed.

Above all, a tax advisory firm bakertilly noted that the reforms impose stricter compliance duties on both businesses and tax professionals.

It explained that the changes, which introduce new thresholds, exemptions, and incentives, will require companies to adjust their operations ahead of implementation to remain compliant and benefit from available reliefs.

the advisory firm detailed preparatory measures for companies ahead of the law’s implementation in 2026, outlined below:

Know your tax exposure

Start by evaluating how the reforms affect your personal or business finances. Look at your income level, sector, and existing tax obligations. this helps you spot any new exemptions you qualify for or new liabilities you may face.

Refresh your tax plan

With the new Development Levy, changes to capital Gains tax, and minimum tax rules, old strategies may no longer work. review your financial structure, profit models, and investments to ensure they fit into the new

tax environment.

Go digital with compliance technology is now at the heart of tax compliance. Make sure your accounting or financial systems can handle e-invoicing, real-time VAt reporting, and electronic recordkeeping in line with the new Nigeria revenue Service requirements.

Build knowledge within your team

Whether it’s payroll, finance, Hr, or compliance, your staff must fully grasp the new regulations—especially around VAt, income tax bands, and deadlines. Invest in training or seek expert guidance to close any gaps.

Monitor tax risks closely

Set up a system to track potential tax risks such as capital gains, VAt errors, employment taxes, or transfer pricing. Keeping a “tax risk register” can help you anticipate issues and make informed financial decisions.

Keep stakeholders informed the reforms may affect employees (through payroll changes), customers (via invoicing rules), or investors due to new tax rates. communicate clearly with everyone involved to avoid confusion and ensure smooth adjustments.

Don’t hesitate to seek expert help the new tax landscape is complex, and missteps can be costly. consult tax professionals or legal experts to interpret sector-specific rules, maximise available reliefs, and stay fully compliant from the start.

Aspira Addresses Evolving Laundry Needs with New Product Launch

Manufacturer & distributor of Personal, Laundry & Dental care products, Aspira Nigeria Limited has expanded its product portfolio with the launch of Viva Matic in response to modern laundry demands.

the firm stated that its latest product was specifically formulated for washing machines, as more Nigerian households adopt automated laundry solutions. It reiterated that the new product is targeted at meeting growing demand for machine-compatible detergents, while demonstrating its dedication to delivering practical and innovative solutions that align with the shifting needs of families.

Head of Advertising at Aspira, Lynda Aguocha, added that the new product will simplify laundry and make it more cost-effective.

“At Aspira, we listen to our customers and understand that efficiency and convenience are top priorities for modern households. Our latest is positioned as an indispensable laundry companion, ensuring clothes come out cleaner, fresher, and protected wash after wash.

“Unlike traditional powder detergents designed for hand washing, Viva Matic’s advanced formula is engineered to dissolve quickly and work seamlessly

in both front-load and top-load washing machines,” she stated.

Also speaking, the company’s Head of Marketing, Santhosh Kumar Nair described the launch as part of the company’s broader focus on practical innovation and quality in household products.

“With washing machines becoming more common in Nigerian homes, this product is meant to provide efficiency and convenience.

“It’s more than just a washing product; it’s a solution that helps families care for their clothes and appliances better, while saving time and resources, “he stated.

JMG Renews Commitment to Economic Growth

Indigenous electro-mechanical solutions provider, JMG Limited has reaffirmed commitment to supporting Nigeria’s economic growth through expanded investments in power infrastructure and sustainable energy. the firm reiterated this on the occasion of Nigeria’s Independence Day celebration under the theme: “Nigeria @ 65: All Hands-on Deck for a Greater Nation.” Speaking, Group General Manager of the firm, rabi Jammal highlighted the importance of unity, resilience, and innovation in shaping Nigeria’s future, adding that same principles

have sustained the organisation for more than two decades.

“this anniversary is not just a commemoration of our past triumphs; it is a call to action for every Nigerian. Like our founding nationalists, we must recommit ourselves to values of service, innovation, and shared progress.

“At JMG, we remain steadfast in delivering the power and solutions that fuel growth, enabling Nigerians to dream bigger and achieve more”, he said.

Jammal further said the goal of the company was to ensure reliable and cost-effective energy solutions that enable

businesses and households to thrive, while contributing to national development.

He stated that the firm’s ongoing investments reflect its long-term pledge to position energy as a key driver of productivity and development in Nigeria.

“Since 2018, we have rolled out solar and hybrid systems, including Lithion and Livfast inverters and batteries, while in 2024, we introduced LONGi solar panels, Deye lithium batteries, and Must solar inverters to broaden consumer options.

Digital Economy Positioned as Lifeline to Unemployment Crisis

Nigeria’s burgeoning digital economy has been touted as a potential solution to the country’s unemployment crisis, with experts predicting that it could reach $180 billion by 2025 and $712 billion by 2050.

ceO of Quomodo Systems Africa, Oluwole Asalu noted however, that the sector can only be maximized with concerted policies, skills-building, and investments in infrastructure.

Asalu informed that projected growth in the industry automatically translates to increased opportunities in fintech, software development, digital marketing, and the creative industries.

Importantly, Asalu noted that with stable internet and the right skills, Nigeria’s youthful demographic advantage, with over 70 percent of its population under 30, positions it to outcompete ageing economies like europe, Japan, and

china in the digital economy.

“the globe is thirsty for the exact commodity Nigeria is richly endowed with- the young and digital talent.

“talent no longer has to migrate physically to contribute globally. Nigerian developers are building apps for Silicon Valley, designers in Abuja are creating for european clients, and our content creators are shaping brand stories for international companies. this is no longer sporadic; it is the beginning of something systemic.”

Amid sector potential, Asalu worried about the absent of regulatory protections for gig and remote workers, noting that this could be exposing Nigerians to exploitation by foreign employers.

“Without contracts, health insurance or pension systems, many are vulnerable. If Nigeria wants to be a global hub

for digital labour, it must also protect its workers.”

He noted, however, that some emerging initiatives offer a glimmer of hope, including the Federal Government’s 3 Million technical talent (3Mtt) and Quomodo Systems Africa’s Q-Intern program, striving to bridge the gap between academia and industry.

“Diaspora engagement is also seen as a crucial factor. Our professionals in Silicon Valley, London and berlin can play a catalytic role as mentors, investors, and partners.

“the digital economy is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to turn our unemployment crisis into global competitiveness. but it will not realise itself. It requires vision, infrastructure, and leadership. If we fail to act, our young people risk becoming a liability. If we succeed, they will become Nigeria’s greatest export.”

FeATureS

Tinted Permits: Law Enforcement or Targeting Nigerians?

It is easier these days to be kidnapped on a Nigerian highway than it is to drive through Lagos without be- ing stopped by the police for tinted glass. In a country where armed gangs operate freely, where bandits storm villages unchecked, and where kidnapping has become a billion-naira industry, the Nigerian Police Force has found its biggest enemy not in violent crime but in motorists with factory-fitted windows. Every morning, officers litter the highways and street corners, waving down drivers and demanding ‘tinted permit’ that most citizens cannot even access. What began as a security measure years ago has degenerated into one of the most visible symbols of harassment, extortion, and misplaced priorities in Nigerian policing, Adedayo Adejobi writes

On a humid Monday morning along the Berger axis of Lagos, Tunde, a middle-aged businessman, thought his drive to work would be uneventful. Instead, he found himself hemmed in by two policemen at a checkpoint. Their charge? His Toyota Camry had “tinted glass.” Within minutes, he was asked to produce a “tinted permit.” When he tried to explain that his car came factory-fitted that way, the officers smirked. “Oga, no tinted permit, no movement. Unless you want to sort us here.” By the time he was released, N5,000 had changed hands, and he was already late for work.

Scenes like this play out daily across Nigeria, where drivers are stopped, harassed, and extorted over tinted glass permits. The Nigerian Police Force, struggling with its battered image and woefully inadequate manpower to fight rampant kidnappings, robberies, and violent crimes, has found fresh energy in pursuing a policy that many Nige- rians see as misplaced and oppressive. What business, one is forced to ask, does the police really have chasing tinted permits in a country where basic security is collapsing?

The controversy around tinted glass in Nigeria is not new. It dates back to the late 1990s and early 2000s, when rising cases of armed robbery and political assassinations pushed the government to ban vehicles with tinted windows unless officially approved.

By 2012, under President Goodluck Jonathan, the police intensified enforcement, arguing that criminals used tinted glass to hide weapons and evade detection. Nigerians were told they could apply for permits, supposedly at no cost, and that such permits would help the police track who was using tinted vehicles legally.

The rationale sounded reasonable at the time: limit criminal anonymity, make it easier for officers to identify occupants of vehicles, and reduce the space for insurgents and kidnappers to operate.

Over a decade later, however, Nigerians are still waiting for evidence that the policy has worked. Armed robbers continue to operate with reckless impunity. Kidnapping for ransom remains a concern. Terrorists and bandits terrorise highways and villages. In all of this, tinted glass enforcement has had no measurable effect. The only visible outcome is that the ordinary motorist has become a victim of harass- ment and extortion.

Checkpoints, which should be places of safety and deterrence against criminals, have turned into tollgates. For officers, tinted glass has become another excuse to stop cars,

demand “settlement,” and collect their daily “returns.”

“Every day, they stop us for the same thing,” says Musa, a commercial driver who plies the Abuja–Lokoja route.

“They don’t care about tinted permit. They just want money. If you argue too much, they threaten to take you to the station.”

Ngozi, who drives a small salon car in Lagos, tells a similar story: “Even cars that come factory-tinted, like mine, are harassed. I can’t remove the tint; it came from the manufacturer. But the police don’t want to hear that. They just want you to settle them.” For many drivers, the experi- ence is not just a nuisance; it is an ordeal that leaves them humiliated and poorer by N14,200 in a struggling economy, amidst multiple taxation by the government.

The absurdity of it all is sharpened when one considers Nigeria’s policing priorities. With a police-to-citizen ratio of roughly one officer to every 600 Nigerians, far below the United Nation’s recommendation of one to 400, the Nigerian Police Force is stretched thin. Rural communities go for weeks without police patrols.

Kidnappers roam the highways. Armed gangs invade villages at night. Yet in the midst of this insecurity, officers crowd major roads in cities, devoting their time to tinted glass. The questions hang heavy in the air: Does this stop kidnapping? Has it reduced terrorism? Does it prevent armed robbery? Or is it simply a convenient excuse to squeeze money from struggling Nigerians?

The contrast becomes even starker when viewed against international practice. In the United Kingdom, police atten- tion on motorists is focused on road safety: speeding, drunk

driving, and vehicle roadworthiness.

In the United States, some states regulate the level of window tint permitted, but enforcement is tied to traffic safety, not treated as a nationwide security threat.

In South Africa, where violent crime is rife, the police devote energy to community safety and armed response rather than harassing ordinary drivers over factory-fitted windows. In Canada, law enforcement focuses on drug trafficking, cybercrime, and organised crime; traffic stops over window tinting are rare and clearly regulated.

In all these countries, the common thread is that policing exists to protect citizens. In Nigeria, tinted glass has been elevated into a policing priority at the expense of real threats to public safety.

The human cost of this misplacement is felt daily on the roads.

Amaechi, a ride-hailing driver in Port Harcourt, recalls how he lost three hours on a single trip because of tinted glass

His“wahala.” passenger cancelled in frustration, and he had to part with N6,000 to continue after so much haggling.

Fatima Bako, a small business owner in Kano, narrates her ordeal: “My car came tinted from the factory. I’ve applied for the permit three times, but the system never processes it. The police don’t care. Every checkpoint, I must pay. It’s like having a car in Nigeria is a crime.”

The ChUMMIeS

Why Trust, Precision Are Critical in Hospitality, High-end Residential Construction

Kunle Adedigba

The global luxury real estate and hospitality industry operates on two fundamental principles that determine success: precision and trust. In markets from Dubai to Singapore, where luxury construction drives tourism, investment, and urban transformation, these values separate enduring landmarks from costly failures.

In Nigeria, the stakes are equally high—arguably higher. The country’s luxury real estate sector is projected to grow significantly alongside rising urbanisation and foreign direct investment in hospitality.

PwC’s African Real Estate Insights report forecasts that Nigeria’s hospitality sector will attract over $1 billion in new investment by 2030. Yet recent controversies around missed deadlines, cost overruns, and high-profile disputes between construction firms and government agencies have exposed a critical vulnerability: can Nigeria’s luxury construction sector be trusted to deliver to global standards?

Precision: The Invisible Standard of Excellence

Globally, precision defines luxury construction. Dubai’s iconic projects—Atlantis, Burj Al Arab—earn acclaim not merely for their scale but for meticulous attention to detail, from engineering tolerances to bespoke finishes. South Africa’s high-end hospitality developments, such as One&Only Cape Town, demonstrate how precision in planning and execution translates directly into international recognition and sustained investment returns.

Nigeria’s luxury construction landscape faces unique challenges that make precision even more critical: unreliable supply chains, infrastructure deficits, and skills gaps. In this environment, precision becomes a competitive discipline requiring detailed planning, world-class project management, and uncompromising quality control. Without these foundations, Nigeria’s luxury sector cannot compete on the global stage.

Trust: The Foundation That Cannot Be Rebuilt Trust in the Construction industry, especially

the high-end niche is the most critical success factor. The ability to deliver on time and to specification boost investor/client confidence in the market and stimulates investment. It enables long-term partnerships between governments, developers, and investors that drive successful projects. In markets like Morocco and Kenya, where tourism-fueled luxury real estate thrives, investor confidence in a developer’s ability to deliver—on time, on budget, to specification—is as crucial as the project financing itself.

Recent disputes in Nigeria between prominent construction firms/developers and subscribers/investors/ state governments have demonstrated how quickly this trust can erode. When projects stall or promises unravel, the consequences extend far beyond the immediate parties: investor confidence weakens, sectoral reputation suffers, and the credibility of “Made in Nigeria” luxury developments faces global scrutiny.

As Africa’s most populous nation and one of its largest economies, this represents more than reputational damage—it’s a squandered economic opportunity. Nigeria’s expanding middle and upper classes represent significant demand for premium real estate and hospitality experiences. Without consistent delivery and reliable partnerships, this demand will inevitably migrate to competing regional hubs in Accra, Nairobi and Dubai.

The Global Standard Nigeria Must Meet

These International and regional leaders offer clear lessons: precision and trust are not aspirational goals—they are baseline industry requirements. Nigeria’s construction sector must embrace this reality. The bar is even higher for the niche construction companies in high end construction because of the sophistication of clientele and capital that it is involved.

These requirements can be achieved through:

Transparent governance: Implementing clear procurement and project management practices that withstand scrutiny and build confidence among all stakeholders.

International benchmarking: Adopting globally recognized quality standards and certifications that demonstrate commitment to excellence.

Long-term thinking: Prioritising sustainable reputation over short-term profit maximization. Stakeholder trust: Building credible relationships not only with clients but with regulators, communities, and the broader investment ecosystem.

Nigeria’s Defining Moment

Nigeria stands at a critical juncture. Growing demand for high end residences and hospitality facilities creates unprecedented opportunity, but heightened scrutiny on delivery capabilities will separate serious players from pretenders. Precision must be evident in every design decision and construction detail. Trust must be embedded in every contract and stakeholder relationship.

Success here will deliver more than iconic hotels, resorts, and residences—it will establish the market confidence that attracts global brands and sustains long-term investment. True

How Eventful Powers Africa’s Most Talked-About Experiences

Fisayo beecroft

For over two decades, Eventful has served as the architect of Africa’s cultural and business narrative, transforming how people gather, celebrate, and exchange transformative ideas. Born in Lagos when the events industry was still finding its voice, the company has evolved into a creative powerhouse trusted by corporates, government institutions, and vibrant youth audiences across the continent. From intimate weddings to state policy summits, from corporate conferences to pulsating youth festivals, Eventful’s portfolio mirrors Africa’s extraordinary diversity and relentless dynamism.

The Economics of Experience

The numbers tell a compelling story.

The global live events industry, valued at $652.6 billion in 2022, is projected to surge beyond $1.2 trillion by 2032, a compound annual growth rate of 5.9% that underscores the sector’s explosive potential. Corporate events and seminars command a substantial 28.5% share of this market, while cultural showcases like Lagos Fashion Week attract over 40,000 attendees annually, launching African fashion brands onto the international stage. These gatherings transcend mere networking. They become crucibles where narratives are shaped, collaborations sparked, and entire industries advanced.

Bridging Boardrooms and Street Culture

Eventful’s genius lies in its ability to serve two distinct yet interconnected audiences with equal mastery. For corporates, the company translates complex business objectives into meaningful live experiences, from healthcare forums that reshape policy to global brand activations that redefine market presence.

luxury construction excellence is measured not by marble quality or architectural flourishes, but by the confidence it inspires, the standards it maintains, and the trust it preserves.

The current debates around reliability in Nigeria’s luxury construction sector represent both challenge and opportunity. To achieve global competitiveness, precision and trust must become the industry’s fundamental blueprint—not eventual goals, but immediate imperatives.

At WL Construction, we are building our reputation on these exact principles. Every project we undertake—from luxury hotels to high end residential developments— reflects our unwavering commitment to precision in execution and trust in partnerships. We don’t just construct buildings; we create lasting value through meticulous attention to detail, transparent processes, and reliable delivery that meets international standards.

As Nigeria’s luxury construction sector evolves, we remain dedicated to setting the benchmark that attracts global investment and builds enduring confidence in Nigerian excellence.

Adedigba is the Managing Director/ CEO WL Construction

Simultaneously, Eventful has captured the pulse of Africa’s youth through platforms like Tech and Gamification events. These experiences blend music, sports, and urban lifestyle into authentic cultural expressions, providing spaces where Gen Z and millennials connect, create, and define their own codes. This dual expertise ensures Eventful’s relevance spans generations while maintaining cultural authenticity. Innovation Through Strategic Alliances

The company’s forward-thinking approach manifests through

groundbreaking collaborations like Podfest Naija Nigeria’s inaugural podcast festival. By positioning African storytellers at the epicenter of the global audio revolution, this partnership demonstrates how local voices can influence conversations far beyond continental borders. Such strategic alliances reflect Eventful’s ability to anticipate what audiences, industries, and communities need before they fully realize it themselves.

The Road Ahead

This year’s calendar reinforces Eventful’s position as Africa’s cultural architect. November’s African Marketplace in Dubai promises to connect African and Caribbean communities, while October delivers a powerhouse lineup: the E1 Series, IIF Gender Summit and the Innovate Africa Tech Event in December. Each represents a carefully crafted platform designed to resonate locally while commanding global attention.

Mr. Football, A Teacher Like No Other Always Impacting Lives

charles Ajunwa

When my late Dad in the early 80s was transferred from Aba to Umuahia, the capital of Abia State, as Stores Manager at the then Golden Guinea Breweries Limited located along Aba Road, my siblings and I never had an inkling that one day the whole family would move from No.2 Crowther Street to my Dad’s newly built house in the village to reside permanently. From my village, Umukabia Okpuala, it takes approximately 20 minutes or less to reach Umuahia.

Going or coming back, I must pass through the main road from Umuawa Alaocha Village, which is not only shorter but also closer to my village. This is Mr.

Football’s village. My secondary school teacher hails from that village. He is one of those who greatly influenced my life.

When I finished my primary school education at Umukabia Central School, I later gained admission into Ohuhu Community Secondary School, Amaogwugwu, where Mr. Football, whose real name is Ejikeme Ikwunze, taught us agriculture, health education, and was in charge of the football teams.

He was also good at sciences and arts, and commercial subjects, which he delivered effortlessly. In and outside the classroom, Mr. Football was worshipped like an idol. He impacted our lives positively. He delivered it effortlessly. During breaktime, instead of

going for lunch, other students and I would gather at the school’s roundabout under a tree canopy where Mr. Ikwunze lectured us on the history of football, current affairs, and other subjects of interest. He stands tall as a living encyclopaedia of football. His love for, and devotion to football gave him the sobriquet

‘Mr. Football,’ as he can take a whole day to teach football history from ancient Greece to the most recent happenings without looking at any book or getting tired. I picked interest in history as a student because of Mr. Football’s teachings. And I ended up studying History at the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN), where I graduated with a Second Class Upper Division.

After my secondary education, I

remained in touch with Mr. Football, who, anywhere we met, would always introduce me to his friends. “Meet Charly, my student,” is his short of way of introducing me, which he does with pride. He would continue by saying that he taught me in secondary school, which leaves me chuckling.

As providence would have it, after over three decades, I reconnected with my teacher, Mr. Football, who served as Special Adviser to then Abia State Governor, Senator Theodore Orji, on Sports. I was Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.

Mr. Football’s humility is infec-

tious. At every given opportunity, he would tell the Governor, ‘Charly is my student’. This left me flabbergasted. Nothing can make Mr. Ikwunze change his style. I discovered that it makes him happy that his investments in those of us that passed through him yielded good fruits, and not wasted.

On his Facebook, I found out that he has 1,670 friends. This says a lot about his personality and character. He relates with people a lot. Eighty to 90 per cent of his Facebook friends might likely be his former students whom he impacted their lives in different ways.

V ICTO r O SI m H e N

u nequalled Class at r ams park

LessthanoneandahalfseasonssincetradingNapoliforGalatasaray,firstonaloanmovebeforeGala eggheadsmadeitpermanentlastsummertransferwindow,VictorOsimhenhassmashedvirtually all records at the Rams Park.Aside winning the golden boot and golden ball-for the highest goal scorerandBestPlayerAwardrespectively,theNigerianinternationalsmashed24-year-oldrecordfor the most goals by a foreign player in a single season after scoring 35 goals across all competitions in hisfirstseason,surpassingthepreviousrecordof34goalsheldbyBrazilianMarioJardel.Andjuston Tuesday,the26-year-oldbecamethefirstNigerianplayertoscore10goalsintheUEFAChampions LeaguewithhislonestrikeagainstLiverpool

Super Eagles forward, Victor Osimhen etched his name into the history books on Tuesday night after becoming the first Nigerian player to hit double figures in the UEFA Champions League.

Osimhen, 26, achieved the milestone during Galatasaray’s 1-0 win over Premier League champions Liverpool at Rams Park in a Champions League phase clash.

Osimhen, who was handed his first full start for the Turkish giants since returning from an ankle injury, showed no signs of rust as he confidently converted from the spot in the 16th minute.

His cool finish past Liverpool goalkeeper, Alisson Becker not only gave Galatasaray an early lead but also pushed his Champions League tally to 10 goals, making him the most prolific Nigerian in the competition’s history. He also ended the game with the manof-the-match award.

Osimhen now stands ahead of former Inter Milan forward, Obafemi Martins, who scored nine times in Europe’s premier club tournament. Ademola Lookman, Nwankwo Kanu, Victor Ikpeba, and Yakubu Aiyegbeni all trail further behind with five goals each.

Meanwhile, Victor Osimhen has lauded Liverpool as ‘one of the greatest clubs in the world’ after helping fire Galatasaray to victory against the Reds on Tuesday evening. The Nigerian netted the winner in the first half, converting from the penalty spot early on to secure a memorable triumph for the Turkish heavyweights.

The result marked Galatasaray’s first home Champions League victory in seven years, with the final whistle sparking jubilant scenes amongst Okan Buruk’s players and their passionate supporters.

Osimhen had been a fitness concern ahead of kick-off, having only just returned from a month-long injury layoff as a late substitute on Friday evening.

However, after being restored to Galatasaray’s starting line-up, the 26-year-old has called on his teammates to harness the victory as inspiration for the rest of their European campaign.

“I’m extremely happy about the performance we put in about one of the greatest clubs in the world,” he told CBS Sports after the final whistle.

“For us, we never get carried away because this is a true test that Liverpool gave to us and I’m really happy about this win.

“It won’t take away that they are one of the best teams in the last decade. For us, it’s a really big motivation for us.

“They made us even better and we

know we have a lot of things to work on. I’m really happy for this win and the team.

“We have quality in our team and we just need to be focused in many games in this competition.

“This is a huge step for us and we won’t be carried away because we beat Liverpool. It’s a big motivation.”

Osimhen also confessed it was a ‘huge moment’ to net the decisive goal past Becker as he praised the Brazilian - who limped off with an injury in the second half - as amongst the finest keepers on the planet.

The Nigerian striker has now faced off against Alisson and Liverpool on three separate occasions, with Tuesday evening’s triumph marking the second time he’s emerged victorious.

Yet, his winner against the Reds represented the first occasion he’d found the net against the six-time European champions, having previously watched Alisson thwart him from 12 yards during his Napoli days back in 2022.

Osimhen revealed his earlier miss had been weighing on his mind before stepping up to face the Liverpool goalkeeper once more as he finally laid his past disappointments to rest.

“You come face-to-face with one of the best goalkeepers in the world, Alis-

son,” he said. “I have to be on high concentration for the place where I want to put the ball and I didn’t change it.

“For me, it’s a huge moment. I came against him when I played for my previous club and he held my penalty so I needed to be highly concentrated to do better.”

Before securing his permanent switch to Galatasaray from Napoli this summer, Osimhen had been touted for a potential move to Liverpool.

However, Liverpool boss, Arne Slot was seemingly not too impressed with Osimhen’s antics during his side’s defeat to Galatasaray on Tuesday.

The striker’s penalty was enough to secure the Turkish champions a 1-0 win in Istanbul, and provide the Reds with a setback in their hopes of reaching the Champions League knockout stages.

Interestingly, Liverpool Manager, Arne Slot didn’t seem all that enamoured with the way in which Galatasaray protected its lead.

The second half was littered with stoppages as the hosts took every chance to run down the clock, with Liverpool’s boss seen involved in an angry exchange with Osimhen at one point as the striker waited to make his way back onto the field.

“It is difficult to compare this situa-

tion to before. We are sometimes a bit outsmarted in situations like this and I cannot blame Dominik Szoboszlai for the situation. They make a 20 per cent penalty a 100 per cent penalty, which is very smart from them.”

Prior to joining Galatasaray permanently from Napoli this summer, Osimhen had repeatedly been linked with a move to Liverpool.

However, ahead of facing the Turkish giants, Arne Slot had played down suggestions that the Nigerian was ever on the Reds’ transfer shortlist.

Meanwhile, Turkish football transfer expert, Süleyman Rodop has revealed that Osimhen played his side’s UEFA Champions League tie against Liverpool with painkiller injections.

Before the encounter, Osimhen had sustained an ankle ligament injury against Rwanda in a World Cup qualifier while on international duty with the Super Eagles of Nigeria a few weeks ago.

“Victor Osimhen played the Liverpool match with painkiller injections,” Rodop was quoted by Habersarikirmizi as saying.

“A day before the match, he said, ‘I have to play in this match, I will play with injections if necessary.’

“Whether Victor Osimhen will play in the Be kta match will be determined in a day or two.”

e kong, Iwobi, Osimhen, 20 Others for Crocodiles, Cheetahs Battles

Super Eagles’ Head Coach, Eric Chelle has drafted team captain, William Ekong, goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, defenders Bright Osayi-Samuel and Calvin Bassey, midfielders Alex Iwobi and Wilfred Ndidi, and forwards Victor Osimhen and Simon Moses in his list of 23 players for this month’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Lesotho and Benin Republic.

Defender Semi Ajayi, who missed the last two matches in the September window due to injury, returns to the group, as do France-based Terem Moffi and former junior international Olakunle Olusegun, who plays

his club football in Russia. Nigeria, now in third place and only three points off first-placed Benin Republic and second-placed South Africa, tackle the Likuena (Crocodiles) of Lesotho at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa on Friday, 10th October in a Matchday 9 encounter, before flying from SouthAfrica to Uyo to battle leaders Benin Republic in a fiery final Matchday game on Tuesday, October 14. The players are scheduled

to fly into South Africa from their different bases in Europe and elsewhere, to converge in Polokwane on Monday, October 6.

Goalkeepers:Stanley Nwabali, AmasObasogie;AdeleyeAdebayo

Defenders: William Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Oluwasemilogo Ajayi; Bright Osayi-Samuel; Bruno Onyemaechi; FelixAgu; Benjamin Fredericks

Midfielders:Alex Iwobi; Frank Onyeka; Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi); Wilfred Ndidi.

Forwards: Ademola Lookman; Samuel Chukwueze; Victor Osimhen); Simon Moses; Cyriel Dessers; Tolu Arokodare, Terem Moffi; Akor Adams; Olakunle Olusegun.

Sanwo-Olu Flags off Race for Historic E1 Lagos GP

The wait is finally over as the historic E1 Lagos GP officially commenced yesterday with the opening ceremony held at the Lagos Motor Boat Club, Ikoyi as Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu flagged off the race weekend.

The iconic race with a blend of speed, culture and mind-blowing speed is coming to the heart of Africa, and Lagos showcasing its waterways to drive sports tourism and sustainable development.

The E1 Lagos GP - the UIM World Championship, an all-electric international offshore powerboat racing series highlights Lagos blue economy potentials and the state commitment to host major

sporting events.

Speaking at the well attended opening ceremony, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Alejandro Agag said bringing E1 to Africa represents a pivotal moment in the mission to grow electric racing on the continent, making the event truly global.

African football legend Didier Drogba, co-owner of Team Drogba Global Africa along with Gabrielle Lemaire, is representing Africa in the global to championship. The former Chelsea star expressed excitement with Africa’s ever race in Nigeia.

Governor Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the impact of E1 Lagos GP while assuring on the state’s commitment to host future event, making race a permanent event

on the global E1 calendar.

The Governor commended the organisers for bringing the race to Lagos and partners c for making the dream a reality. He further assured on the state resolve to compete with big cities across the world though her resilient, competitiveness and home to global businesses.

The RaceBirds took to the Lagos Lagoon to round off the opening ceremony ahead of the race which starts with the qualifying rounds on today while the main race will hold on Sunday.

The E1 Lagos GP, set up up a thrilling penultimate round in the battle to crown the 2025 ‘Champions of the Water’. ahead of the season finale in Miami.

. . . Lagos, UNDP Commended, as First Bank Commits to Environmental Sustainability

Lagos State government has commended First Bank of Nigeria Limited for its support for mangrove restoration project in the state.

The tree planting initiatives, organised by Team Drogba alongside E1 and the Lagos Organising Committee is part of the E1 Lagos GP; an all-electronic powerboat racing championship in Lagos.

The E1 Lagos GP is first

of its kind all-electric powerboat race championship in Africa. It features teams owned by notable figures across sports and entertainment including former Chelsea stalwart. Didier Drogba.

The restoration, through tree planting took place at Eco Park, Akodo-Ise in Ibeju Lekki area of the state.

Samuel Egube, Deputy Chief of Staff to Lagos Governor and Chairman of LOC who deliv-

betPawa Unveils tekno as brand Ambassador after ₦494m Nigeria National League Sponsorship

Gaming brand, betPawa, is raising the stakes in Nigeria. Days after announcing a 494 million Locker Room Bonus sponsorship for the Nigeria National League (NNL), the company unveiled Afro-pop sensation, Tekno, as its new brand ambassador at a colourful event in Lagos.

The unveiling highlights betPawa’s strategy of blending football, music, and culture to connect with young Nigerians. Tekno, one of the country’s most celebrated hitmakers, now becomes the face ofAfrica’s “home of big winners,” carrying a message that extends beyond gaming into lifestyle and inspiration.

“Tekno represents everything betPawa stands for — energy, creativity, and breaking boundaries,” said Borah Omary Ndanyungu, Head of Local Marketing & CSR at betPawa. “His music inspires millions, just as football does. This announcement comes on the heels of our 494m investment in Nigerian football through the Locker Room Bonus.

“For us, it’s about rewarding performance on the pitch and creating unforgettable experiences off it.”

Tekno, known for charttopping singles like Pana

‘Chaos

ered the speech at Eco Park, said the initiatives is part of Lagos state plan to ensure that communities bordering the Lagoon are well protected while commending First Bank for the support.

Alsospeaking,RosemaryAgbo,Senior ProgramAssistant to the National Coordinator of UNDP, Global Environment, Facilities and Small Grants, said United Nations Development Programme, has providedtechnicalsupportfortheproject in protecting mangroves and forests. She said, “I would like to say it’s really exciting to see a force for good like First Bank supporting this project. I want to commend First Bank and we look forward to such partnerships across the country.

Reacting, Acting Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications ofFirstBank,OlayinkaIjabiyi,reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting any sustainability initiative aimed at enhancing the resilience of Lagos coastal environment and communities.

“Supporting sustainability is one of our key aspects, and key drivers of our business.Any area where there is an opportunity to demonstrate sustainability, to support the environment, to do things that help advance communities, First Bank will always be found there, he said.

and Skeletun, welcomed the partnership: “I’ve always been about pushing limits, from the studio to the stage. That’s why betPawa felt like family. The odds, the payouts, the innovation — it’s a game-changer. And you know me, I’m here for winners only,” he said.

Locker Room Bonus Reshaping Football

The Locker Room Bonus initiative, launched inAbuja earlier this month, guarantees 56,000 direct mobile-money payments to 20 players and three technical staff fromeverywinningNNLteam— 1,288,000 in total per match. With 292 games scheduled, over 369m will go directly to players and staff this season. Another 100m will support league operations, while 8.1m is reserved for endof-season awards. For the NNL, the deal is about more than cash; it represents professionalism and transparency. Club officials have already been trained on the Locker Room Bonus platform, which digitises line-up verification and automates payments, ensuring instant rewards for players.

A Brand Bridging Culture and Sport

The unveiling of Tekno signals

in the Ring’, A Defining

Stakeholders and dignitaries havehailedthesuccessof‘Chaosin theRing’,describingitasadefining moment for Nigerian sports and a showcaseofthecountry’sgrowing reputation beyond football.

The Independence Day boxing spectacle, staged at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena and promoted by Amir Khan’s AK Promotions in partnership with Balmoral Group Promotions and Bet9ja as official sponsor, lived up to its billing as one of the biggest sporting nights on the continent.

In the main event, American cruiserweight Brandon Glanton delivered a devastating sixthround knockout against 2012 OlympianMarcusBrowne,sealing

that betPawa is embedding itself in Nigerian culture. From its 1,250% sports win bonus — the highest in Africa — to its exclusive 1M x multiplier on JetX crash games, the company is positioning itself as the “home of big winners.”

But the brand says its mission goes beyond business. “Across Africa, we’ve shown our commitment to grassroots development. Whether through Locker Room Bonuses or supporting local leagues, our focus is on empowering players and fans,” Borah added.

At the Abuja launch, stakeholders urged betPawa to extend support to women’s football and basketball, areas where the company already invests in other African markets. The brand’s track record shows inclusivity, ensuring equal rewards for men’s and women’s leagues where it operates. By investing in both sport and culture, betPawa is shaping a new model of corporate sponsorship in Nigeria — one that fuels ambition on the pitch, drives creativity in music, and empowers communities.

As Tekno prepares to release new music and the NNL gears up for its November kickoff, the synergy of football and Afro-pop promises to keep Nigeria buzzing. For betPawa, this is just the beginning of a bigger story.

Moment for Nigerian Sports

victory in one of the night’s most tightly contested bouts.

There was also a historic homecoming for Nigerian-born UK boxer and former Commonwealth and European champion DanAzeez, who thrilled the Lagos crowd with a fourth-round TKO win over SulaimonAdeosun in his first-ever fight on Nigerian soil.

Reacting to the night’s success, Bukola Olopade, Director General oftheNationalSportsCommission (NSC), said the event highlighted Nigeria’s growing profile in global sports.

“This year alone, we have hosted international events in athletics, karate, arm wrestling, and more, and it has been magnificent.”

The event drew an illustrious audience, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Minister of Finance Wale Edun, Minister of State for Finance Dr. DorisUzoka-Anite,NSCChairman Mallam Shehu Dikko, Lagos State Sports Commission DG Lekan Fatodun, SSA to the President on GrassrootsSportsChiefAdeboyega Adeyinka Anthony, veteran journalist Chief Dele Momodu, and Nigerian football legend Victor Ikpeba.

“This symbolises the excellence that Nigeria is known for. We had attendance from different continents, and tonight proves we are more than a football nation,” Olopade said.

Nine Nigeria-eligible Players Called up by England

The English Football Association has announced the Young Lions rosters ahead of international matches later this month, with nine Nigeria-eligible players called up. Arsenal’s history-making midfielder Ethan Nwaneri and Chelsea forward Tyrique George have been chosen to represent European champions at U21 level, England.

The Young Lions will lock horns with Moldova at Stadionul

Zimbru on October 10 andAndorra at Derby County’s Pride Park Stadium on October 13 in back-to-back European Championship qualifiers. Ipswich Town fullback Somto Boniface has been selected for England U20s squad for the first time ahead of a friendly against Switzerland at St. George’s Park next Friday. Joining him in the squad picked byBenFutcherareRangersdefender Jayden Meghoma, Crystal Palace’s Eyimofe Jemide and Aston Villa

wonderkid Jamaldeen Jimoh. Three Nigeria-eligible players—Khari Ranson, Rio Ngumoha and Callum Olusesi—have been named in Will Antwi’s England U19 squad for upcoming matches against Belgium and Wales.As part of their preparations for next month’s Euro qualifiers, the Young Lions will face Belgium on Saturday, 11 October at the Marbella Football Centre, before facing Wales on Tuesday, 14 October at La Quinta Football Centre.

COURTESY VISIT TO KATSINA GOVERNOR...

OBINNA CHIMA

obinna.chima@thisdaylive.com

Africapitalism as Africa’s Answer to Migration Failures

The recent rise in migrants’ deaths in Africa underlines the painful truth that economic despair continues to drive thousands into perilous journeys.

Every year, an uncountable number of men, women, and children gamble with death on treacherous routes in search of opportunities that remain scarce at home. These recurring losses expose not just a humanitarian crisis, but also the deep structural economic failures that force Africa’s brightest and strongest into exile, often with fatal consequences.

This matter, which has remained a concern on the continent, was brought to the fore recently after a tragedy occurred in which 68 African migrants lost their lives when a boat capsized off the coast of Yemen. A report from the United Nations’ Migration Agency revealed that during the boat accident, 68 African migrants died and 74 others got missing. The tragedy was the latest in a series of shipwrecks off Yemen that have killed hundreds of African migrants fleeing conflict and poverty in hopes of reaching the wealthy Gulf Arab countries. The vessel, with 154 Ethiopian migrants on board, sank in the Gulf of Aden off the southern Yemeni province of Abyan early Sunday, Abdusattor Esoev, head of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) in Yemen, had revealed. After the incident, the bodies of 54 migrants washed ashore in the district of Khanfar, and 14 others were found dead and taken to a hospital morgue in Zinjibar, the provincial capital of Abyan on Yemen's southern coast. Only 12 migrants survived the shipwreck, and the rest were missing and presumed dead.

Also, within the same period, another 70 African migrants were killed when a boat capsized off the coast of THE Gambia, in West Africa, in one of the deadliest accidents in recent years along a popular migration route to Europe. Another 30 people were also killed after another vessel, believed to have departed from The Gambia and carrying mostly Gambian and Senegalese nationals, sank off the coast of Mauritania recently. This Atlantic migration route from

the coast of West Africa to the Canary Islands is typically used by African migrants trying to reach Spain.

Tragically, the IOM reported that migrant movements increased sharply in the first half of 2025 despite a rise in deaths and disappearances along the perilous Eastern Route linking the Horn of Africa to the Arabian Peninsula.

Indeed, each body washed ashore, each person lost to the sea, is a frightening reminder that Africa’s greatest wealth, its young people, are being lost on the waters of desperation, in their quests for better living conditions.

Besides rising cases of migrants’ deaths, Africa is often at the epicentre of overlapping global crises – economic shocks, climate disruptions, and geopolitical tensions – that compound vulnerabilities, because of its heavy dependence on primary produce. Additionally, the unfavourable terms of trade between the continent and the rest of the world, rising geopolitical tensions, and isolationist policies adopted by some developed economies are all pointers to the fact that Africa needs to rethink its development strategy.

To reverse this tide, African governments must begin to embrace Africapitalism as

a transformative development model. Africapitalism places responsibility on African leaders and private sector actors to create homegrown opportunities that combine profit with social impact.

By building industries, investing in local talent, and embedding accountability into governance, Africa can transform misery into dignity and migration into choice rather than necessity.

Africapitalism, which is championed by the Chairman of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) and Heirs Holdings, Mr. Tony Elumelu, advocates for a form of capitalism that prioritises long-term economic and social value in Africa. It's a call for the private sector to play a leading role in the continent's development, not just for profit, but for shared prosperity. In the face of global trade uncertainties, this philosophy offers a beacon of hope.

Africapitalism acknowledges that the public sector is insufficient to drive Africa’s development and provides an alternative to government-only methods of market regulation and the delivery of necessary social services.

It calls for the creation of a new Africa via the initiatives of a resurgent private sector that will deal with societal challenges by starting companies and creating wealth for the local community.

Certainly, Africa offers countless untapped economic opportunities as the last frontier of capitalism. That is why the continent needs an endogenous growth model in which it manufactures goods for its markets as a first foundation, spreading out regionally from that base and emerging as an economic power in its own right through competitive advantage.

One way to do so is to invest heavily and simultaneously in job-creation strategies and in education systems that will create skilled workers to take opportunities that will be created by expanding economies. Africa’s growth profile is, among other things, driven by its rapidly expanding consumer markets, as well as its private sector. From Lagos to Nairobi, Accra to Lusaka and other major cities in the continent, with innovations in the mobile

payment space, e-commerce, technology, agriculture and other critical sectors of the continent, promoters of Africapitalism strongly believe that African youths, if given the required support can compete with their peers in the global market, thereby expanding trade in the region. This would help lift the continent out of its present economic predicament.

Additionally, proponents of Africapitalism maintain that the private sector can also contribute to the continent's development by making long-term investments in critical sectors that will foster social welfare and economic prosperity.

Elumelu preaches to anyone who will listen that with Africapitalism, Africa’s policymakers should "run government like a business," with legislatures holding administrations responsible in the same way that they hold chief executives accountable. For him, the private sector should aggressively invest even in difficult socioeconomic situations because the continent cannot flourish through government alone.

The founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation strongly believes that entrepreneurship is a vital tool for eradicating poverty in Africa. More importantly, for him, entrepreneurship would get youths in the continent busy and keep them out of social vices, as well as create employment opportunities in the continent.

According to the Chairman and Founder of Heirs Holdings, Africa’s development requires massive private global capital to fire and power investments in the area of infrastructure, to create employment and eradicate poverty.

Therefore, if Africa is to meet the demand for new jobs and to create wealth sufficient to sustain domestic economic growth, it must sharpen its entrepreneurial focus on the continent and make faster progress, especially with initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement. Again, long-term investments with social impact can offer outstanding return opportunities when compared with short-sighted, rent-seeking types of economic activities that have been Africa’s private sector for decades.