SATURDAY 8TH AUGUST 2026

Senior Goldman Sachs ExecutivesVisit Dangote Industries Limited, Laud World-class Refinery Dangote targets $100bn annual revenue by 2030 Goldman Sachs hails scale, quality of refinery

Sunday Ehigiator

Senior executives from leading

global investment banking and financial services firm, Goldman Sachs have toured the Dangote

Industries Limited's integrated petroleum refinery, petrochemicals and fertiliser complex in Lagos.

The delegation, led by Co-Chief Executive Officer of Goldman Sachs International and Global

Co-Head of Investment Banking, Anthony Gutman, visited the Dangote Petroleum Refinery

& Petrochemicals, Dangote Continued on page 5

FG to Begin Local Production of Family Planning Commodities...

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Saturday August 8, 2026 Vol 31. No 11444

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Extend Pay Rise for Military to Other Security Agencies, Rewane Tells FG...

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Kwara: 13 Killed, 12 Children Still Held by Terrorists, Survivor Recounts Ordeal

Oluchi Chibuzor in Lagos and Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

Some of the rescued victims of

the February 3 terrorist attack on Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State have revealed

that at least 13 captives died during the nearly six months in captivity, while 12 children were still being held by the

terrorists. Some of the victims disclosed this during a reception for them in Ilorin, yesterday.

The victims numbering 163 were rescued on Wednesday August 5, 2026, by security forces after spending six

months in captivity. They were abducted when armed bandits invaded the community Continued on page 5

Tense Osun Poll: Vote Buying Worries INEC CSOs flag 13 high-risk LGAs, appeal for police neutrality Kudos, knocks trail Tinubu's directive to unfreeze state’s account Police assure Nigerians of peaceful, credible governorship election

Adedayo Akinwale, Sunday Aborisade and Linus Aleke in Abuja and Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo Ahead of the August 15 governorship election in Osun State, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) yesterday expressed concern over the growing threat of vote buying, warning that the practice could

undermine the credibility of the poll if not decisively checked by security agencies. This comes as Civil Society Concerns on Election Security in Osun urged the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to remain neutral and professional during the state governorship election. Also yesterday, reactions

EXPLORING FUTURE INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES...

Co-chief Executive Officer of Goldman Sachs International (GSI) and Global Co-head of Investment Banking, Anthony Gutman (left) and President/Chief Executive, Dangote

Continued on page 5 Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, during the GSI Team’s Strategic Visit to Dangote Refinery Petroleum and Fertiliser Plant, in Lekki, Lagos…recently

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US Appeals Court BlocksTrump’s $400m White House Ballroom Project

Oluchi Chibuzor with agency report

Preservation, which sued last year after the administration tore down the East Wing and began A United States federal appeals building a 90,000-square-foot court yesterday ordered Donald (8,360-square-meter) ballroom Trump's administration to stop without seeking a​ uthorization construction on a $400 million​ from Congress. "Whether or not a massive ballroom on the site of the White House's demolished East Wing, ballroom should be constructed dealing the Republican leader a is for Congress to decide and major setback in a case testing is not a matter for Executive self-help," the panel's majority​ his presidential authority. "Each P ‌ resident is a temporary wrote. The appeals court placed its tenant, not the owner, of the White House," and cannot ruling on hold for 14 days to fundamentally reshape it allow the Trump administration without congressional approval, to appeal to the U.S. Supreme Reuters quoted the Washington- Court. Trump, who has increasingly based U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit claimed that the ballroom project to have said in a 2-1 opinion. was a security necessity, referred The order upheld a to the structure as a "military preliminary injunction won by center" in a post on Truth the National Trust for Historic Social on Friday and said t​he

administration would appeal to the Supreme Court. He called the decision "horrendous" and politically motivated and said it left him, other White House officials and visitors exposed to attack. "This unjust ​decision must be overturned by the Supreme Court in its entirety," Trump wrote. He said the ballroom plan includes bomb shelters, medical facilities, shielding from drones and missiles and other security features that are "all tied together as one big, expensive, and very complex unit." National Trust President Brent Leggs said in a statement that the ruling marked "a great day for our country and for the American people's right to voice their opinions a​ bout the historic places they cherish,

including the White House." Trump appealed after U.S. District Judge Richard Leon, an appointee of Republican former President George W. Bush, twice blocked aboveground construction on t​he site while allowing underground work to continue. The ballroom plan, which the administration has described as necessary for large formal functions and to preserve the safety of the White House, is the grandest o‌f several Trump efforts to reshape central Washington's landscape of government buildings and national monuments. A judge in a separate lawsuit recently said Trump’s name was illegally added to the exterior of the Kennedy Center

performing arts venue and ordered its removal. In the ballroom case, Justice Department attorney Yaakov Roth said during D.C. Circuit arguments on June 5 that the courts have no role in weighing the privately funded project. He said the National Trust’s "architectural preference" should not take precedence over national security concerns, claiming evidence that the former East Wing left the​president and others in the White House​ vulnerable to attack. The Democratic-appointed judges in the appeals court’s majority — Circuit Judges Patricia Millett and Brad Garcia — said their order does not permanently bar construction of a ballroom,

KWARA: 13 KILLED, 12 CHILDREN STILL HELD BY TERRORISTS, SURVIVOR RECOUNTS ORDEAL earlier this year, killing scores of residents and whisking away many others into the forest, triggering widespread outrage and intensified security operations. Following sustained military operations and coordinated efforts by security agencies, the victims regained their freedom and were transported from Niger State to Ilorin. They met with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, some top military personnel

and government officials. Narrating her harrowing experience, one of the survivors, Nafisat Abdulfatai, said several children remained in the forest because the abductors said they would become slaves if they attempted to leave. “Thirteen people died among us during our time in captivity. Twelve children are still with the terrorists. They were not released with us because the abductors had threatened that those who tried to leave would

become slaves. “Out of fear, the children agreed to remain behind. Two of them were specifically forced to stay because the terrorists believed they were old enough. In truth, those children were compelled to remain. We pray that God will also bring them back safely. “We were not allowed to eat what we wanted. Most days, we ate only once. Our meals were prepared with only salt—there was no oil or other ingredients.

but halts above-ground work during the lawsuit and until the White House secures approval from Congress. National security arguments “are not an automatic get-out-oflaw-free card,” t​he opinion said. “The bold assertion that the Executive can act with utter lawlessness, destroying treasured national landmarks and harming the interests​of individuals, and that no court can stop it flouts our constitutional order,” the judges wrote. Circuit Judge Neomi Rao, whom Trump appointed during his first term, said in her dissent that the trial judge’s injunction blocking the project “is beyond the proper province of the federal courts” and that construction should be allowed to continue.

We survived mainly on ‘luru’ soup. Many of us ended up eating things we never imagined we would eat in our lifetime.” “There were days when we had nothing to eat from morning until night. Sometimes, our only meal came around 7 p.m. or 8 p.m. The suffering was unimaginable. “About a month after we arrived in the forest, they slaughtered two cows every day for five consecutive days, making a total of 10 cows.

“They also slaughtered two more cows before our release. They gave each of us two yards of cloth on two different occasions, but that did not lessen our suffering, “We slept inside the thick bush. The first rainfall came while we were completely exposed, and it ended while we were still there. It was only after some children died that they erected a makeshift shelter with trampoline material,” she said.

According to her, “There were pregnant women and nursing mothers among us. Some women gave birth in captivity but lost their babies. About six or seven women experienced that tragedy, while others returned with their babies. “Some of the rescued victims are currently receiving treatment because they are seriously ill. We are all affected, but some are in much worse condition.”

would depend on the conduct of security agencies, political parties and their supporters. He described the political environment in Osun as "quite tense," urging all stakeholders to exercise restraint and uphold the rules of engagement. "Our biggest concern is vote buying, which we fear could be widespread. We want the Nigeria Police and other security agencies to remain professional, impartial and above board in enforcing the law. "Vote buying is prohibited under the Electoral Act. It is a criminal offence and one of the greatest threats to the integrity of Nigeria's electoral process. Anyone arrested for the offence should face the full weight of the law," the official added. Meanwhile, the Civil Society Concerns on Election Security in Osun has urged the Nigeria

Police Force and other security agencies to remain neutral and professional during the state governorship election. The group made the call yesterday, during a press conference at the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters in Abuja. Executive Director Samson Itodo, who spoke on behalf of the group, warned that public confidence in the electoral process would depend largely on how security personnel conduct themselves before, during and after the poll. “This is the last major election to be held ahead of the 2027 general election. Therefore, it has a lot of significance, and it’s a unique opportunity to inspire public trust, not just in the management of the election, but election security. “The public would want to see institutions demonstrate neutrality

so they can have confidence in those institutions,” Itodo stated. He warned that the level of pre-election violence and political tension recorded in parts of Osun State could undermine public trust and confidence if not effectively addressed. He disclosed that findings from Yiaga Africa’s election observation and risk assessment showed that 13 of Osun State’s 30 local government areas have been classified as high-risk due to recurring violent incidents and heightened political tension. These he said included Irewole, Osogbo, Boripe, Obokun, Ife North, Ife Central, and parts of Ijesaland. He added. “Our comprehensive assessment and monitoring process shows that there have been about 34 known fatalities

TENSE OSUN POLL: VOTE BUYING WORRIES INEC continued to trail President Bola Tinubu's Thursday’s directive ordering the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to return to court and vacate the order freezing the Osun State Government's bank accounts, with political parties, civil society organisations and security agencies expressing divergent views over the development. While the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Osun State and the opposition Accord Party commended the President's intervention as a demonstration of respect for democracy and the rule of law, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) warned that the directive could undermine the operational independence of anti-corruption institutions. The House of Representatives Minority Caucus said the directive issued by the President to the

EFCC was due to massive public outcry and not by respect for the rule of law. Also, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, yesterday assured Nigerians that adequate security arrangements had been put in place to ensure a peaceful, free, fair and credible governorship election. Speaking on INEC’s level of preparedness, a senior official of the Commission who spoke to THISDAY on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to comment publicly on the election, said while the electoral body was fully prepared for the exercise, vote buying remained one of its biggest concerns given the heightened political atmosphere in the state. The official disclosed that the commission had completed virtually all critical preparations for the election, including the

deployment of election materials, training of personnel and testing of its electoral technology. "As far as INEC is concerned, I can confidently say we are over 90 per cent prepared for the election," the official said. He revealed that INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, recently led a comprehensive readiness assessment in the state, which involved six National Commissioners, directors, senior officials and technical staff. According to him, the exercise, which lasted about five days, involved a thorough review of every aspect of the commission's preparations, including a mock accreditation exercise to test the effectiveness of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS). The official, however, stressed that INEC alone could not guarantee a credible election, saying the success of the poll

Continued on page 23

SENIOR GOLDMAN SACHS EXECUTIVES VISIT DANGOTE INDUSTRIES LIMITED, LAUD WORLD-CLASS REFINERY

Fertiliser Limited and supporting infrastructure during a recent visit to Nigeria. Speaking after an extensive tour of the 700,000 barrels per day refinery, the Goldman Sachs executives remarked, “It is extraordinary what Mr. Dangote and the whole organisation have achieved. The ambition, the scale of the project, the quality of the project and the culture of the people is very impressive.” Responding, the President and Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, said the refinery and associated

industrial facilities demonstrate the transformative potential of long-term investment in Africa, adding that the Group's growth ambitions extend well beyond its current strategic plan. "No matter how we try to explain what we have built, you cannot fully appreciate it until you see it. But this is only the beginning. We need to look beyond 2030. The next phase of our journey will include new investments and acquisitions as we continue to scale the business," he was quoted to have said. Dangote said detailed internal

modelling had reinforced management's confidence that the Group's target of generating US$100 billion in annual revenue by 2030 was achievable. He noted that the projections were based on conservative assumptions and had strengthened the company's conviction that it could pursue an even more ambitious long term growth strategy. He added that the level of employee participation in the recent private placement of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery reflected strong internal belief in the company's growth strategy

and prospects. The Goldman Sachs team included Adib N. Zouein, Co Head of EMEA Emerging Markets Regional Sales and Head of the Middle East and North Africa region for Global Banking & Markets Public; Ryad Yousuf, Global Head of FICC Sales Strats and Structuring; and Jimi Adesanya, Head of Sub Saharan Africa Sales (excluding South Africa). They were received by Aliko Dangote; Group Vice President, Oil & Gas, Devakumar Edwin; Managing Director

and Chief Executive Officer of Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals, David Bird; Group Executive Director, Oil & Gas, Fatima Aliko Dangote; Chief of Staff to the President/ CE, Ibrahim Dikko; Group Chief Branding and Communication Officer, Anthony Chiejina; Group Chief Economist, Dr Hassan Mahmud; and Group Chief Strategy Officer, Aliyu Suleiman, among others. The visit came a few days after Aliko Dangote held discussions with Canada’s Prime Minister, Mark Carney,

on opportunities to strengthen investment partnerships and deepen economic cooperation between Canada and Africa. The meeting focused on expanding investment opportunities in Canada and exploring how the Dangote Group, alongside other African investors, could contribute to Canada’s economic growth. Both leaders also exchanged views on Canada’s Africa Strategy and the importance of promoting stronger two-way trade and investment flows between Canada and African countries.

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NEWS

News Editor: Charles Ajunwa 09157401421 (sms only) Email charles.ajunwa@thisdaylive.com

UNVEILING REMODELLED PREMIER HOTEL IBADAN... L-R: Secretary to the Ekiti State Government (SSG), Prof. Abibat Adubiaro; SSG to Oyo State Government, Prof. Musibau Babatunde; Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Secretary to the Government of the COURTESY VISIT... ADVANCING BILATERAL ANTI-DRUG COOPERATION... Federation, Senator George Akume; Group Director,TO Odu’ a Investment Company Limited/Chairman Planning Committee, Mr. Seni Adio, SAN; Chairman, Odu’a Investment Company Limited, Bimbo Ashiru and SSG to the STrATeGIC ALLIANCe SANITISe FXBrig.Investors MArKeT… L-R: Director-General of theOfficer Budget of theDrug Federation, Tanimu Impact Foundation, Etemore Glover; Chair ofin GSG Nigeria andCommissioner Vice Chair of GSG Impact, Mrs. Ibukun Awosika; Minister ofthe Chairman/Chief Executive ofOffice the National Law Enforcement AgencyCEO, (NDLEA), Gen. Mohamed Marwa (Rtd) (right), presenting a plaque to the High of Canada to Nigeria, Dr.PHOTO: David Sproule, during Lagos State Government, Mrs. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, during theYakubu; inauguration of newly remodelled andBuba redeveloped Premier Hotel Ibadan, OyoPartner State…recently ABIODUN AJALA Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu; CEO ofEconomy GSG Impact, Elizabeth Boggs Davidsen, and Market Development Manager at GSG Impact, Ms. Atieno Otonglo, at the courtesy the Federal Ministry RAPID DIAGNOSTIC TEST PRODUCTION FACILITY INAUGURATION... L-R: Minister of Finance Coordinating the ofMs. Nigeria, Wale Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede andvisit thetoGovernor, Central envoy’s visit to discuss areasand ofSenator collaboration withMinister NDLEA atof the agency’s National Headquarters inEdun; Abuja…yesterday

Bloomberg: Nigeria Draws First Tranche Extend Pay Rise for Military to Other Edo APC, State Govt Trade Words Idris: Nigeria on Path of Economic President Tinubu Welcomes New Security Agencies, Rewane Tells FG of $5 Billion Swap With UAE Bank over N9bn Fresh Loan Approval Renewal, Global Respect Qatar Investment Initiatives from of Budget andand Economic Planning Abuja… recently Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso, in aBabatunde StrategicAjayi; Alliance to Stimulate the forex market Abuja…yesterday L-R: Akarigbo Paramount RulerinOf Remoland, representative of Minister of Trade andin Investment, Dr. Rabiu Olowo; Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun; Group Managing Director, Codic Pharm Ltd, Sammy

Ogunjimi; Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate Muhammad, and Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, during the inauguration of Codix Bio Limited held along the Sagamu-Benin expressway, Ogun State…yesterday

tranche of a $5 billion derivatives press time. drawn attention from market closing at N1,380.9/$ at the inflows, despite mounting Nume Ekeghe with agency deal with United Arab Emirates' The $5 billion facility, participants because of the official market yesterday, pressure from investors chasing reports largest pressing aheadin captured. approved by that thetheNational limited disclosure compared with N1,380.1/$ assets, recently approved increase Nume Ekeghe in Benin City also revealed value of stupendous Breakfastpublic Session, a copy lower-ranking personnel, 50 per dollar-denominated compensation packages. “In his infertile rambling, Tenebe state Governor, Mr. Godwin as N9 billion for the has been lender, swindled by Obaseki-led Adibe emenyonu made wild and completely off-theObaseki across all sectors of the fathom projects which only "Information at the behest of the with a transaction that has been Assembly earlier this year, is surrounding its terms. The the previous day, while holding falling international oil prices Nigeria has accessed the first administration the salary of with military personnel electronic payment transactions of which was obtained by cent for officers from warrant "The knock-on effects will an unassailmark comments suggesting that state over the paston seven years.” in the imagination of online members of1,700 the Edo State House of existed able, humongous debt profile of scrutinized for being opaque. part of the federal government's International Monetary Fund firm at N1,390/$ the parallel and a pullback in the domestic tranche of a proposed $5 to other security agencies, The Managing Director and in Nigeria increased by 5.54 THISDAY yesterday, argued officers to colonels, and 30 per affect the rest of the public span over kilometres aimed The minister reiterated that the that the federal government is about 85 per cent complete projects Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja and bold reform agenda, which included Assembly is to the effect that they the governor, it was discovered Edo State is owing $35 Ahoada billion. “Tenebe hasmore beenprojects on a frenzy Edo State chapter ofof the All Pro- N135 billion and $35.6excluding billion, at unlocking economic activity andto ongoing reforms by the therecently Tinubu ismarket concentrating in the handled by Rock Result along “The West African nation plan to month-on-month diversify external (IMF) and was Fitch thelies third consecutive equities market. billion derivatives financing warning that Chief Executive Financial per cent thatthe following federal cent forfor officers from colonels sector and the relativity factor the removal of fuel subsidies and the were Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt Even if that was what was written looking for to tell since that facility not even N9 recalled from their holiday gressives Congress (APC), yesterday, the governor is unyielding and Nigeria. The Ambassador knows stability tothat thewere world. I seeabout your Nigeria's tax with system, Nigeria's readiness to build on the- bridging end of the tunnel."You can't find Deji Elumoye Company in Abuja regional divides. administration not just than northern areasthe ofasmaking the nation. ofnaira East West Road ishe atknown 60 per unification of foreign exchange rates drew $1.5 billion in the financing sources and 2026, reduce cautioned while derivativeweek. has come under themabout could create distortions arrangement with the United Derivatives (FDC), N122.98 trillion in July up billion government's approval ofina South to assumed generals, total costit section forThe the private sector," stated. for him, he should have he office Acting but a figure wrapped or leave by the Speaker on the urged Governor Godwin Obaseki to unstoppable in his characteristic that I take Qatar very seriously. efforts as in much humanasdevelopment, easier for foreign investors to do cent momentum generated by his shifts state request a better partner thanthat Nigeria. “The aimthe iscosts. not just connectivity, economic arithmetic, but about Chairman. Responding to questions from completion, adding RCC, two of the most significant policy Minister of Information and National that the figure is wrong and can't Rather than focus secrecy N17.5 billion of state governor for last couple of weeks from a borrowing Structured as based financing can improve Analysts attributed pressure in recent sessions as within the country's security Arab Emirates' largest lender, Mr. Bismarck Rewane, from N116.52 trillion recorded comprehensive wage review for estimated at N924 billion. He further cautioned that stop securing loans, noting that the design leave State inhistory. ruin, but economic opportunity,” he said. creating aand new foundation forLike inclusive who his inspection Setraco have follow shown commitment in Weimmediate are willing to go further in to peace prosperity. you, business in observed the country. visit toto Qatar inEdo 2024, pledging to the I always global issues President Bola Tinubu yesterday in Nigeria’s recent economic Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has said by be true. on reawakening histo completely which the opposition inArmy, the journalists approval ofFirst the N9 billion loan recently approved asking for a facility of N17.5 total return swap transaction a Total Return Swap with liquidity, such arrangements the resilience strong investors reposition ahead of the architecture. according to a Bloomberg has called on the federal in June. He projected that the personnel of the Nigerian While acknowledging the higher wages without a “Nigeria is really retracing its steps. growth, the Zarama section of theefforts Westto their our bilateral relations." we areaccountability, sandwiched between the of implement all difficult bilateraldecisions agreements "We are making and your have to welcomed new initiatives by billion “These were that said thethe country was on Assembly the path towards "Injobs. reality,efforts. our debtYou stock is not comatose party, which isEast unable rejected andand orsustainable refused facility which according to house by House of was few ago, which was This isdays as the economist with First Abu Dhabi Bank Abu Dhabi Bank, proceeds are should be transparently macroeconomic fundamentals, dollar-denominated fundraising government torestating extend the had figure would climb further to there should be a corresponding importance of improving the corresponding increase in report, marking theexplore first It is becoming an important nation once development. Road rehabilitation in Bayelsa State, Addressing the journalists, Umahi The President said the Qatari challenge of terrorism and helping between the two countries. reform our tax system. Going do more in Nigeria to help fight to be made. They caused some Qatari investors to economic recovery, federal to provide constructive criticisms a secret and in fact, we are ‘under them is said to be N9 billion to be part of the approval. needless and will plunge the state said to be N9 billion." again the comity nations. In another development, who expressed satisfaction withstill the said, "We havein just inspected work PJSC, according to people earmarked for refinancing debt managed toreaction, minimise healthy external by Dangote Refinery and N126.70 trillion inofAugust, salary forfiscal the Umahi welfare of amilitary personnel, productivity could fuel the inflation, but anisaircraft taking reported under turbulence, government’s commitment to restoring government had demonstrated our neighbours. We areUmahi conscious He directed the Minister of but by experiences ofreserves the past and poverty the humanitarian opportunities in the agricultural borrowed’. Emperor Tenebe would expected of viable opposition, But in adjustment its the Edo asamong event unfolded, after into financialdrawdown distress. Tenebe, saidlike"It important The respect thatforesight Nigeria used to have disclosed this yesterday while inspecting ongoing projects across Rivers, Delta ofPetrochemicals, Rockknown Result where we have multiple off, we are now reaching stability. The investors’ confidence and deepening maturity and in working of who is our friend and those Budget and Economic Planning, the need to depart from old area. You have done well have this if he understood he has resorted to spreading State Government stated that sector and assured that Nigeria the mammoth request by the as seasonal spending and Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Rewane warned that the policy estimating that the adjustment familiar with the transaction, and supporting infrastructure and debt risks. on a steadily upward trajectory prompting ain aBut facility that has attracted in a swift reaction, the to state, that it is now in public is now gradually returning. Investors the ongoing construction of federal and Bayelsa. culvertsaofover the East West World Bank has noted our returnthe to opposition democratic the economics governance, fiscal in ahave desperate Edo APC “obviously in the and House as toof the for global peace deserves helping usand towas ameliorate the misinformation Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu; ways, our reforms have been concrete developing knowledge-based remains open to structure strategic Edo State values. Government said it and political space that the continued adoption Security Civil Defence would inevitably wider could add between two and who asked not to be identified financing. Meanwhile, the naira has at $51.2 billion and sustained rotation of capital from naira scrutiny over its have more confidence our country,” roads in by Rivers, Bayelsa and Delta He said that the tough Bodo-Bonny Road Road failure in between Rivers and growth levels not seenState in over a the This was as his to counterpart, responsibility and debt-to-GDP ratio. curry popularity. the achievements of attempt rationale for ainchannels facility as commendation. problems." Minister of of Information and hard. Itomade decisions economy Qatar, but what partnerships. was perplexed learn ofMinister what fiscal budget Edo was digital payment lift pained Corps (NSCDC) and other implications forcheap the public and Bayelsa. three into percentage points to because they aren't authorised This transaction has, however, remained relatively resilient, foreign portfolio investment assets dollars. and transparency. he said. states, dismissed the claims trending construction handled by Julius Berger decade,” Idris told Forbes Africa. Works, David Umahi, has disclosed itoftermed “laughable and incredibly passed few weeks ago before the According to him, "I am proud President Tinubu also noted National Orientation, Mohammed so that we could grow. We are about Nigeria?", the President The President gave the transaction values. security agencies to maintain private sectors. inflationary pressures. to speak to the media." Bloomberg reported that He noted that this year’s observance that the federal government is investing ridiculous attributed to Edo of of Assembly Idris;State and House Minister Foreign of your efforts to bring peace and ongoing reforms to streamline gradually seeing the light at the explained. assurancetantrums at the State House, Rewane, while weighing in equity and morale across the He said the salary adjustment "This will push wages of the outlined Democracy Day notYusuf just trillions ofacting naira in the construction Efforts byleave to Nigeria drew about $1.5 billion the newwhile chairman of the proceeded on without the and aTHISDAY roadmap for Kayode Tokede Affairs, Ambassador Abuja receiving a special warranted celebration, but sober and rehabilitation ofof roads across the commencement Edo State chapter APC, Jarret of the execution on the increase in emoluments, security services. would affect wage relativities higher without productivity. independently confirm the over the past two weeks through Maitama Tuggar, tomarket workdemocratic together envoy from the Amir of the State reflection transitioning from recovery on the journey country. Tenebe where he made baseless of the budget by theofexecutive. in a presentation he made at The wage review approved across the public service and Inflation is bound to increase reported drawdown from a Total Return Swap (TRS) to ensure the timely execution of Qatar, Dr. Mohammed bin to a deliberate national capital President Bola has and economic renewal. Idris reaffirmed thisTinubu yesterday in Itconsolidation and spurious allegations on the isthese most disheartening that the Rescue workers edition from around the trapped under rubble before the buildings. Heavy onmachinery reported severe ofshortages of the August of the for the Nigerian Army provides place pressure private by a minimum two to three of agreements. Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of transaction with First Abu Dhabi formation programme capable of reaffirmed federal government’s Idris explained that funds recovered an interview with Forbes Africa to Edo fiscal management of our dear State Government now is world yesterday intensified efforts critical 72-hour "golden window" arrived in some of the hardest-hit essential supplies, saying years of was told that he would not board the would clear the air on what really every passenger has a right, your Chinedu Eze He said, "To all the members of Qatar's Minister of State for Lagos Business School (LBS) for an 80 per cent increase for sector employers to review per cent," he noted. Finance were unsuccessful. Bank PJSC, people familiar requesting from the fuelfor subsidy removal were mark the Democracy celebration state by the citing Governor Godwin a facility of N17.5 mobilising long-term investment commitment toDay leveraging to locate survivors trapped beneath for finding survivors begins to close, areas nearly two days after the underfunding had left the country' s flight because boarding had closed. happened, since the Senator and the right is limited to what is within the the Idirectly want tointo say asent big Foreign Affairs, Dr. Al-Khulaifi, being reinvested critical Obaseki-led government.” and unbroken 26 years ofrequested democratic with corollary of project Calls andno text messages with the deal who todelegation, support Nigeria’s aspiration Nigeria’s capital market asin a billion lid Operators Minerals formalisation of artisanal miners also want tobegin be available part of the move d'Affairs, US Embassy, InBBC another development, the airline have made their own ICAO (International Civil Aviation Airline ofDevelopment, Nigeria (AON) Charge collapsed buildings in Venezuela the reported. disaster to clearing massive healthcare system ill-prepared for a thank you for coming to Nigeria. conveyed Amir's strong interest Addressing a press conference attached there to the said facility infrastructure projects including two rule in Nigeria. toofthe Minister ofGod Financewhat and Dr. anonymity because they were becoming a to one-trillion-dollar hasthe described strategic catalyst for into cooperatives amongst others. to reduce global emissions and put Organisation) in his include office on Minister of Aviation and Aerospace covered the incident. regulation and the that byAlake, disrupting operations David We are expanding bilateral yesterday, Tenebe had cooperation, said the state and alsograteful that the facilityfor is not afterDele two powerful earthquakes The Greene, worst-hit areas the videos piles ofthat debris. disaster of such magnitude. expansive highway corridors that will said He defended President Bolaeconomic Tinubu’s United Nigeria’s "Theindustry. miningThere sector mining sector on the global aviation Coordinating Minister of the Alake lauded the United not authorised to speak publicly. Development, Festus Keyamo, has our Okonkwo stated the operators’ is noprovides amount of Air Peace States when itasdenied him Thursday, economy. transformation, enterprise growth was already suffering a debt contained as loan to be in the we have experienced astaken partners announcing that aunder high-level killed more than 900 people and capital, Caracas, the coastal state Among those anxiously awaiting The tragedy has also reignited and strategic veritable avenue for map. We on have critical minerals fostering orderedcommitment that a probetoshould be viewpoint the incident and said ofa any disappointment, if atincreased all, from boarding for theally Lagos-Abuja flight, States’ Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, According to Bloomberg, profile of N135 billion and $35.6 2024 budget recently Thefiscal presentation highlighted and long-term capital formation, in progress. I am also just glad that the longstanding Qatari business delegation will the left thousands injured in one of the of La Guaira and neighbouring rescue efforts is Natacha Diaz, criticism of Venezuela's fragile partner forinthe nation’s mining trade between Nigeria and the United that are in commercial demand cooperation with Nigeria in diverse conducted on the incident. that passengers have their rights but any airline that gives you any rightin former governor of Edo State and billion. passed. A cursory perusal of the are under scrutiny and processing," Penta M &Amp; Centre 2, Tambuwal one of them was also involved Kuni Tyessi Abuja were responded to as of sector development. "Nigeria has accessed the first Amir ofnot Qatar greatlyperformance remembers visit Nigeria in theengagement coming the market’s strong following a high-level States, especially in the area of value globally,"Alake said. sectors of the economy, stating that country' s deadliest natural disasters communities, where hundreds of whose two daughters are believed emergency response system, with Spokesman of AON and the airline operations are guided by for self-help. We have been talking currently Senator representing Edo He said, "While it is a monumenentire budget does not reveal where Oloyede said. LGA, Sokoto, Sokoto State. impersonation. the issues discussed during my weeks to explore opportunities over the for lastthe three years, with North with thethat Board and Management Speaking while receiving itChairman addition, which implies processing The minister partner- about underscores significance of the ofthe Unitedshowed Nigeria regulations and itawelcomed isshopping the responsibility unruly behaviour. So,towhat District, Adams Oshiohole, tal disaster Edo State patrimony the project facility is ever in more than a century. buildings were reduced to piles of trapped inside complex residents urging authorities allow “The 2025 UTME the Oloyede added that 80 suspects The registrar also said that due to The Joint Admissions and last year. inof agriculture, security,Group and visit and of setting up ship with the US on investments in of extracted smooth bilateral relations in between market capitalisation growing violated Nigerianfood Exchange Airlines, Obiora Okonkwo, a pressof of airlines and passengers toby abide saw wasminerals avolunteers typical case unruly aviation regulation. According to (JAMB) Venezuelan concrete and twisted steel. where they worked. Holding their more civilian to participate prevalence of some particular types were being interrogated the you substandard performance, four centres Matriculation Board has both "Let me commend the brotherly other critical sectors. factories here. We would also require the mining value chain, expanding countries. in Lagos yesterday called by those regulations. behaviour. It is not acceptable. Air Senator Oshiomhole who had conference from approximately N30 trillion officially Plc (NGX Group) and the relations infractions, which suggests systemic police fortechnology their involvement in the hadrescue been delisted and blacklisted for announced the of on authorities, at Abuja least 920release people ofgathering grief unfolded acrossI access photograph, the distraught mother in operations as thousands financing from multilateral institutions to extracting “IScenes you for your visit. between Qatar and 6:30a.m. President Tinubu emphasised thethank Federal Airports Authority “AON had had theinfull brief of Peace is aon respected airline. No matter Lagosflight on Air elections momentum, yesterday submitted their report Ilorin Thursday, they had Chuks Okocha in Abuja and in 2023 N160 trillion, Economic Team Hope” andto improving the livesand of the Fidelis DavidManagement in Akure vulnerabilities or gaps in registration examination malpractices and most technical deficiencies. He listed the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation for our local operators. We are providand processing minerals and met the US Assistant Secretary of have been confirmed dead, while affected communities as desperate said they were "all I have." remain displaced. Nigeria (FAAN) toPDP bringhas out the Air Peace on this incident. And as what you think about it, they carryto last Wednesday was denied ofthe Kwara State also the State Working Committee pledged their commitment Hammed in Ilorin the Ondo State. thepeople NGX All-Share Index rising Peace at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, among Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan theof youthful population. “Wethan areShittu establishing, this State ing incentives for investments like mining areas. for Energy Resources, Geoffrey and examination administration or/ asecuring ofto them would beas prosecuted. centres as: Adventure Associate, Behind Examination (UTME) results. CCTV video of the incident, saying matter of fact, much as we 40 to 50 percent of all the domestic boarding when he arrived atsustained 6:05a.m., more 3,300 others families waited near collapsed Another resident, Andreina Meanwhile, international “Today, wethe take yet another bold The Governor of Ondo State, moved to capitalise on the of the party. the electoral victory ofequipment, President tax waivers for mining Throwing light on reforms Pyatt, on the sidelines of the Mines He said government is year, 37,000 Citizens’ Brigade from 52,000 points to 244,000 on Thursday and monitoring. “The Board has identified the Sheshe Supermarket, Kano, Saadatu Following poor performance the numerous challenges Olawale Ajimotokan in that it is the video from FAAN that appreciate and understand that passengers in Nigeria. 25 minutes to departure time and injuries afterSchool. the twin earthquakes, structures, hoping forinwithin news of embarked Valerio, help to rescue assistance hasrepatriation pouring into step in our ongoing commitment to inof Lucky Aiyedatiwa, said his worried of full ofZaria. profits upon byfor the federal govThe Director National Money conference London growing the The appealed parley according to policy Bola College Ahmed Tinubu come 2027, The Kwara chapter about 72 per cent Primary inUTME, eachof and “The newdiscontent trends observed were presence of extraneous fingers in Rimi ofbegun Education, candidates inState the1,000 2025 pointsthat over the period, During theGeneral, visit,has NGX Group confronting thesame country, Abuja improving the youthful welfare ofpopulation our people, administration will continue to of measuring magnitudes 7.2 and missing loved Many her one-and-a-half-year-old son, the country. Rescue teams from to home countries amongst others," ernment, the minister highlighted past year, andones. weand hadExamination asurvivors fruitful Orientation Agency (NOA), the nation’s state, including FCT, Abuja. These in the Registration the registration details of some of On how to check the UTME results, telecommunications and digital ruling APC, mandating former THISDAY checks might not but vowed not to work for the the Peoples Democratic Party alongside significant growth presentedsocial a strategic overview social inclusion fulfilling prioritise inclusion and ensuring urging them to and intensify Alake emphasised. revised Community Development engagement. I didwere analyse allin our 7.5, struck barely a minute apart have also been forced to sleep Santiago, who remains trapped Switzerland and Mexico have Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, has have become foreigners through Citizens’ Brigade are going to be processes and they mainly the these candidates. This raises concerns Oloyede said: "To check the 2025 solutions company, Globacom, said Senate President, Bukola Saraki, be unconnected with the recent success of the APC in the state. (PDP) and the 15 aggrieved inpromise trading domestic of thefederal Nigerian market’s the of activity, Renewed Hope for economic empowerment In his remarks, the US Ambas(CDA) guidelines issues, andcategories: fundamentally, we just Agreement prayers for President Bola The government announced planscapital toof vulnerable launch ongubernatorial Wednesday night. The Guild second outdoors after homes were alongside other family members joined local emergency the influence of cartoons and Boys’ ScoutPreparatory and Girls’ following Identity Fraud, regarding potential strategies UTME results, candidates should its Examination Service to begin talkstheir with aggrieved resolutions of the PDP leadership However, the PDP and thesend 15 aspirants of All want Tinubu thehis support givenforeign to the like all,” he for declared. Tyessi intransformation Abuja citizens through strategic partnerships commended theresponders, renewed geared towards reducing frictionfor in sador to diversify our economy participation and remarkable under Tinubu and administration. has asserted its unwavering aKuni 37,000 Citizens’ Brigade in movies which areHumanitarian foreign in of the olden days. and Biometric Fraud of Combined impersonation. by text message “UTMERESULT” as was specifically designed to help quake is believed to be the strongest destroyed or declared unsafe. beneath the rubble. while the United States military is A statement posted on the anti-graft's prosecution to proceed with the trial described the May 27, 2025 bail application Alex Enumah in Abuja According to Aiyedatiwa, a total with the federal government. interest of Nigeria in solid minerals, commission and the host communities; on-going plans from oil. Not just for our own members of the party. to meet the aggrieved 15 APC aggrieved gubernatorial aspirants Progressives Congress (APC) portfolio investment. the current administration primary schools across countryto . contents, He255 also expressed optimism resolve togovernment securing freedom values and across cultures. “Across the in world, Nigerians Thumbprint of Candidate,” he said. lDoctors of 3,656 candidates fall hearing withinzone this one to 55019 or 66019has using the Computer-Based social media handle X, noted the duo prayed for of theword defendants as incompetent, given of 16, beneficiaries all 18 students toin hitthe theexcel South American nation economic InAs Lapart Guaira, residents described inaccelerated the disaster participating inathe humanitarian rescue that sector huge Also, Aiyedatiwa hasthe forwarded for new security architecture to ofstressing survival butthat also toits and Affairs Ministry. The federal yesterday of efforts to put gubernatorial aspirants towards have set up committee on how state have commenced He made theHouse disclosure whilea Local Other he trends said, were category. Consequently, the results of that same they had used Issa-Onilu saidAreas as a in way out are known beFinancial the smartest examinations. were arraigned onglobal a six-count case. natural thephone defendants neither underto that ongoing security The Economic Crimes be for Nigerians held captive potentials tonumber rivalwere the contribution the state secure efforts in tuneinfractions, with for the the Ondo State of Assembly HeGovernment revealed that Nigeria said there arejournalists ongoing discussion since 1900. toand widespread devastation ascharge, rescue warned that resources; hospitals were operations despite longstanding troubled inwarming. order which fostering political understanding tooilshare the positions negotiations the sharing speaking with in Ibadan bordering on money toWe the Responding, the defence counsel, J.J. arrest, nor inthe detention, nor have appeared impersonators at laundering the point of to the candidates have been withheld.” register theelective registration process. thereceive malaise, NOA would on earth. This is abriefing positive Commission (EFCC), yesterday, arraigned Speaking at workers aon press inof reduction of toduring nation's economy. generate big geo-data; the inhouse global will N75,and 000plans each, disbursed list of 12 nominees for the position of of operations coordinated byhow bandits. has concluded to soon host people on 15,000 Nigerians stranded Emergency are racing teams, police officers and military struggling to cope with the influx tensions between Washington engulfed thethe party after the Usman, ahead thepartforthcoming before the final closure oflater." the elective positions ahead of 2027 tune during a working to Oyo launch of $12 with million. SAN,ofon on underage his reminded the before the court, being the grounds the Managing Director/Chief Executive registration active involvement Speaking candidates, Result printing will be available aleaders Mobile App containing but some people Abuja yesterday, Registrar of JAMB, monthly installments of N25, 000 development commissioners the visit State Executive interventions would yield global to discuss issues Secretary toinNiger, the Government in Cameroon, Chad and in against time to rescue those feared personnel searched damaged ofelections. casualties. personnel and Caracas. State. The defendants according to the court of subsistingMedical bail following applications of provided by thethe Administration of Officer of SunTrust Bank Ltd, Halima conduct of the party primaries portal of Independent elections. for three months, directly through Council for confirmation. of few CBT centres, double registration, he explained that the Meanwhile, reacting to the poor indigenous cartoons through mischievously tend to portray Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, revealed that the migration and how it affects other parts of the worldSenator would of positive results in the fight Buba ofHe the Federation, statement, however, defendants, dated May 27,aggrieved 2025 and Criminal Justice Act,students (ACJA) that should and thepolitical bank's Executive Director/ saidgovernor 1,000 Citizens’ Brigade their debit cards. The made this which and attempted substitution ofpleaded self by the Ministry of Education’s decision performance of in the 2025 Board withheld the results 39,834 local contents, national us inWith negative light. Butof this is EFCC's in the state, the Kwara State At the meeting of the National Electoral Commission permutations countries under the membership be returned to Nigeria safety. against kidnapping and other George Akume, gave the values guilty” to all the chargesCommittee when they prayed that the acourt should uphold a bail application but rather Chief Compliance Officer, theand totaltaking amount commitment during official would be Commissioner, set up in each of the The new Comptroller ofthe Immigration atHe thesaid state over,injected headed candidates. togubernatorial enforce minimum age theof UTME, the company explained that candidates outare ofthe the over 1.9Innocent million “not and culture would be who we as a people. APC Reconciliation aspirants held in precipitate (INEC). ahead of 2027 general of the on not Federal National readOloyede to themadded following which the lead applications and admit thegranted defendants applied for bail from the comfort of their Mbagwu, before Justice Emeka Nwite criminal activities. assurance yesterday when into theEuro-African scheme is N1,Dialogue 219,125, 000, flag-off ceremony ofFederal the second phase promoted. 36 states and the Capital that 244 candidates 16, an exception was for the Glo Examination Preparatory applicants that sat for the exam. “To change the negative narin Cross River State, Okechukwu straight to inspect locations and Migration and Development. Commission for Refugees, Migrants Rotimi Oyedepo, to“exceptionally bail. officesstudents when noronaction has of the Federal High Court,boss, Abuja for direct economic support of thehosted Conditional Cash national Transfer Tand erritory (FCT)has toDisplaced promote "Our up mission heAnyanwu, members of were caughtcounsel, engaging in “WhatsApp gifted” underage homes Serviceortrains practical According thesetting JAMB of prosecution According to him, vari- ratives, we to are upout the rallied officers and providing setting rules of"These engagement Popularly known ason theearth, Rabat Internally Persons SAN, announced thetoreadiness of the The prosecution counsel in his response, been taken againstinthem. alleged fraud. to thousands of households. disbursement to beneficiaries in Ondo values as of old, stating that the runs,” subscribing rogue groups students. ways to excel Computer-Based the figure 96 candidates' results were our goal on earth is to ous policies are geared towards Citizens’ Brigade to produce the Federation of Muslim Process, the meeting be menheld ofofthe Command towas enthrone for officers torecalled ensurewould maximum (NCFRMI), Alhaji Tijani Ahmed, Thehisgovernor thatthe in young State, atthe the Akure South Local essence toin changing that bordering on terrorism murder. enumah in Abuja promising leaked questions. The registrar said thatand of the 41,027 Fagbemi, examinationsSAN, such assubmitted Joint Admissions withheldNigerians over exam malpractices, the and and createa Alex promote, tonarratives preserve, and Women's Associations the first thematic dialogue under disclosed this atBrigade atomedia briefing synergy in order execute the core alertness in securing all entry points November 2024, a total of 8,637 debit Government Secretariat yesterday. the charge having been filed by Although, they pleaded not revive and rebuild the national He said their results had also been underage candidates who registered, and Matriculation Board (JAMB), decrease from 123 in the previous year. wrong impression that the outside positive models to rebuild the tothrough prolong life. toIt's not to Nigeria’s chairmanship, which Nigeria led cards in Abuja. were distributed beneficiaries, At the event, Governor mandate of(FOMWAN), the service.Aiyedatiwa the state. Justice Bolaji Olajuwon of a Fed- guilty the Inspector General of Police, was to all the charges, the judge the values and create positive models withheld to set a stern example. only 467 met the high-performance Junior and Senior West African Oloyede said the Board remained world is having about the country . national values." conveyed government' s approval stakeholder participation in health federal government’s Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja is being co-chaired by Nigeria Ahmed revealed that no amounting to N647,775,000, making launched the distribution of the it. The by its National Amirah, High Court inhe Abuja, yesterday, incompetent and askedexaminations the court to however, ordered that they Anyanwu, who is the Dr. 29th shorten According to a government statement by the Wale In cases, said,Oversight the entire criteria, with onedefendant. disqualified duebe to and Examination Council in itsin Abuja commitment to eral High Court which had dismissed onegovernance. other unreliable witness testimonies, Igbintade atoperational thesome 5th the Ministerial sector commitment to1,3,4,5,6, strengthening and the Kingdom and resolute fewer thanHope six million people current phase ofa Spain, significant Renewed Debit Hamza. Cards to the excellence ascentres they selling six at the Darussa State, the COAS described Linus Aleke dismissed application by two and strike out counts and 7the of isPublic doing everything tothesecure remanded atcows the Kuje Correctional Sumaye Fadimatu Comptroller of the Command, Relations officer of Calabar syndicates colluded with CBT examination malpractice. as well as IELTS. eliminating any form of examination his no-case submission, and quashed At theofpending lower court, Justice Raliatu including those of PW9, PW10, and ofon theof social safety net. thousands of beneficiaries aseffort part expansion isthe focusing youth, education were displaced inthat Nigeria, while Committee (MOC) held in Abuja As efforts to reinforce health sector governance, The federal government has Rivers State indigenes challenging the charge orthe strike strike out Center, the hearing of prepare to serve in the Nigerian Village market in Gudu Local exercise as flagship of the release all who are He vowed no the welfare and and Command, Asi Obi,theAnyanwu to register usingcharge multiple fingerprints. He bail said that the Board remained Theas 2025 UTME results released malpractice, addingLagos that 1,957,000 the 12-count filed against had ruled that the EFCC well as Exhibits P59–P61. Court of Appeal, Division, the “We understand economicon The ofassured the federalthat innovation. thousands ofgovernment’s refugees areNational living jurisdiction of the court to try Adebiyi entire suit for been incompetent. their application fixed for PW11, yesterday, said the committee state financing compliance, deepening accountability across approved N32,880,443,906.25 Army's newly established Government offacie Sokoto Army's post-basic infantry Thedischarged Chief of Army Staff captured," he said. will be spared to the challenges regard, has approved your indicated that Governor Seyi Kemi Olaitan inProgramme Ibadan According tothat him, as aFinancial result of had committed toas providing the necessary by JAMB on May 5 had elicited candidates were verified to sit for him by thealleged Economic and established aArea prima case The Court of Appeal agreed, has and acquitted a them conducive environment for(NSIP), service resumption met with unitpeople heads that that many of holds our Social Investment over complicity in the Responding, Police lawyer, Mr. February 2, well as the motion The meeting, which May elsewhere across thefacilitate world. has so far disbursed a total of the Committee directed the implementing institutions, under the second quarter, 2026 suspension as the Onido of Ido in divisions, formations and units. State. training framework, designed Makinde approved the suspension (COAS), Lieutenant General this, 3,656Commission “extraneous support for persons with disabilities widespread concerns morenot than Crimes (EFCC). some of the counts and ordered holding that the appellant was a He lauded FOMWAN for the examDirector while 71,705 were of absent. former General the burning safe return ofby captives, while and this programme is asynergy, clear implemented in collaboration with face ofcandidates the Riverswith State House of on Simon Lough, SAN,asurged the as enthroned the Comptroller and "called for maximum of the 1st and 2nd defendants 13th to 14th, 2025, is expected to “We have 15,000 Nigerians who The Oyo State Government, yesthe area of authority of Ido Local on 1st of February, 2024. N290 billion under the initiative. MOC Secretariat to issue formal improving coordination among BHCPF disbursement memo Assembly The EFCC accused and his co-defendant the VIMSAS Committee; Nigerian Maritime This was as the troops Speaking at the graduation to million sharpen combat fingerprints” have had their results Akpobolokemi aspiring to pursue tertiary education. 1.5 out of 1.9 million candidates Waidi Shaibu, has candidates charged According to him,Administration 2,157 demonstration that the that government the Ondo State Government through complex in Port Harcourt, court toofdismiss theproficiency, application challenging the jurisdiction of member its steadfast contributions reaffirming the government's feature discussions would want to return to the country General of the service, Kemi dedication, and teamwork among all terday, suspended Oba Investment Gbolagade stands Area ofrejections Oyo State." Thewith letteryou,” readthe ingovernor part, "I wish to Government Akpobolokemi of conspiracy, open their notresults a signatory to any of the and Safetyfingerprint Agency (NIMASA), meeting also approved communication all2025 36 the states to and stakeholders, andwarrior accelerating added. withheld, and some CBT centres He said that forto the UTME, whose were released scored tosoldiers sustain implementation of Rivers the National Social experienced due for lacking in the merit. the court to defence. suit ofThe 8State. Division Garrison of to ceremony ofentertain the Advanced strengthen ethos graduating from topersonnel national development, commitment to we strengthening policy direction, shape voluntarily, and alsoOnido haveto guide Nandap, would be leveraged tothat advance the Command Muritala Babalola, as the Itsuspected directed Oba Babalola to hand inform you His Excellency, the Patrick stealing, and forgery in connection Akpobolokemi, through his Committee’s accounts. Akpobolokemi, of alleged He further disclosed that efforts Chime Eguma Ezebalike and Programme Agency (NSIPA). According to Lough, besides against them. implicated will face sanctions. a total of 501 candidates were below 200. A breakdown of the results to registration infractions, modalities to commence inclusion reiterate responsibilities relating to implementation of ongoing healthcare services nationwide. the Nigerian Army have Infantry Training Programme and prepare soldiers for the Exercise RESTORE HOPE Xinto with alleged illegal transfers from the lawyers Collins Ogbonna and Kunle cooperative efforts among not less 100,000 foreigners describing association as of Ido inthan Ido Local Government national security. all million government properties Executive Governor Oyo State of over see that the Command delivers while upholding theofcore The court further held he N754.8 fraud. Lukman Oladele, were ongoing tothe expand themandates, state’s Sections and 66 of thethat Police Ezebalike andArmy Oladele had health Addressing the gathering, the are He identified the suspected centres as counterpart successfully examined byTraining JAMB released by4JAMB on Monday showed auphold figure, he said, wasstandards far aboveof Prince of private sector actors within the funding obligations sector reforms under the The Coordinating Minister countries of origin, transit and apprehended four at the Nigerian realities of contemporary living in this country as refugees. Area of the state. the highest his possession to the Chairman Nigeria, in exercise of the powers avalues, vital partner in promoting The SGF underscored account of thepersons VIMSAS Committee. appealed the ruling, neither signed nor approved any In a unanimous decision delivered on the mandate. and standards among five charged with Gbolahan, Acts that empower them to bring argued that by the provisions register tooperational accommodate more acceptable governor expressed joya and adated deep social Tigh Technologies Limited, Sascon Equal Opportunity Group (JEOG) that 983,187 candidates (50.29 per cent) margins and currently The government, in letter Ido localthe government. Incourt the conferred on him by stressing Sub-section destination, explore inclusive All are theof responsibilities Ministerial Oversight Committee and fund commitments. national agenda towarddefendants, achieving ofprofessionalism, Health and Social Welfare, Lakurawa terrorists while Centre (NATC), Kachia, Kaduna military operations. discipline and terrorism He wasand originally arraigned with arguing thenationwide. EFCC to withdrawal instructions internal yesterday, appellate murder. The others the charge against of theequity Terrorism Act, it isfailed only the peace, advocacy, unity and thethese vital role faith-based households, that of sense ofFebruary, responsibility, noting that vulnerable The Comptroller had aftersigned arriving of the service. International School, Maitama, across 11that centres scored between 160the andor199, while under investigation. 2nd of 2024 and meantime, the stateAli government 1&2 of Section 26 ofcooperation the Chiefs policies, stronger of the commission, tostep give them framework to strengthen broader In his remarks, Pate reaffirmed Universal Health Coverage. Prof. Muhammad Pate who several others, but the charges were link him to any wrongdoing and memos related to the alleged are Kenneth Goodluck Kpasa, Osiga allowed Akpobolokemi’s appeal, Section 5 and 99 of the Terrorism Attorney General of the Federation no vulnerable household should be the initiative is a bold towards social progress. organisations in addressing According to Oloyede, the results 488,197 candidates (24.97 per cent) "A total of 39, 834 results remain Abuja, Wudil Computer Information by the Commissioner for Local

Reveals electronic payment transactions rose to N122.98trn in July Projected to hit N126.7trn in August

Umahi says FG investing trillions in construction of roads across Nigeria Affirms Nigeria's readiness for strategic partnership

Tinubu, NGX Push $1trn Economy Agenda

Air Peace Incident: Oshiomhole Violated Aviation Mining Development: Nigeria, USto 920 Death Toll in Venezuela Earthquakes Rises Regulation, AON Alleges, Minister Orders Probe UTME: JAMB Releases Results, Withholds 39,834 Explore Areas of Strategic Partnership Places 1,426 results under scrutiny 2027: 15 APC Guber Globacom:PDP, how our product can help students excel inAspirants JAMB, other exams Aiyedatiwa Launches FG's N1.2bn Conditional Cash Transfer in Ondo, Negotiate Power-sharing in Kwara

Akume Assures Nigerians

Saraki woos aggrieved members APC reconciliation committee submits report

Nominates NOA DG: FGCommissioners to Launch 37,000 Citizens' Brigade Nationwide in Captivity of Freedom FG to Repatriate 15,000 Nigerians Stranded Abroad

Alleged Money Laundering: EFCC Arraigns SunTrust Bank CEO, Executive

New Calabar Immigration Comptroller Sues for Synergy to Achieve Mandate

BurningofRiversAssemblyComplex:CourtDismisses Pate: FG Has Disbursed N32.88bn Application Challenging Competence of Charge COAS Charges Troops to Uphold Professionalism

Basic Healthcare Fund for Q2 2026 Appeal Court Acquits Ex-NIMASA DG Akpobolokemi in N754.8m Fraud Case as Army Expands New Formations

Oyo Govt Suspends Monarch in Ibadan

support,” hepromise said. of “Renewed fulfilling the Government andPresident Chieftaincy Ahmed thanked Bola Matters, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola,

Law,sustained Cap. 28 Vol I, Lawsthat of Oyo and dialogue can left Statebehind. of Nigeria 2000positively. and by virtue reshape migration of all other enabling powers in

has vowedthe to hit hard atthe anyone, set aside Ikeja unreleased. Ofruling these, of 1,426 results no matter how highly placed, who contravenes the law.

Donald and Ochueja Thankgod. later amended to include only him Technology. Kano State and They wereWudil, last week arraigned on a seven-count criminal charge

relied onfileinadmissible evidence transfers. Act, shows that theand police have that any released charge ofbut terrorism are can also being sadly, fraudulent scored between powers to also 140 initiate 159. terrorism against them. Their lawyer, Mr. Lukman charges against the defendant.

7

SATURDAY AUGUST 8, 2026 • T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R

NEWS

BOOSTING RURAL CONNECTIVITY...

L-R: Ogun State Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele; Governor Dapo Abiodun; Baale of Adesan, Tajudeen Adesanolu; Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Ade Akinsanya, and Speaker, Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide, during the inauguration of the Adesan road in Obafemi Owode Local Government…yesterday

FG to Begin Local Production of Family Planning Commodities

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The federal government has announced plans to commence local production of family planning commodities as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria's healthcare value chain, reduce dependence on imports and improve access to reproductive health products across the country. The government said the initiative would be implemented through a partnership between global pharmaceutical company, Bayer Pharmaceuticals, and a local manufacturer to produce family planning commodities in Nigeria, describing the move

as a major milestone for the He said the company, to be country's pharmaceutical located in Anambra State, would industry. be the first of such facilities to It said the initiative also commence production of family forms part of broader efforts planning products not only in to build a healthier and Nigeria but in the sub-Saharan more productive population African region. capable of contributing more According to the minister, the effectively to Nigeria's economic pharmacy firm was expected to development. help provide the needed family The Coordinating Minister of planning products that can Health and Social Welfare, Prof. accelerate the improvement Muhammad Ali Pate, disclosed this at the inauguration of a high-level meeting of Nigeria Inter-Ministerial Platform on Family Planning, Health, Human Capital and National Development held in Abuja, Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi yesterday. Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdukadir Mohammed, has directed security agencies to sustain joint operations against criminal elements, warning crude oil. that renewed threats require The recoveries, estimated at coordinated action to protect 60,000 litres and 45,000 litres lives, property and vulnerable respectively, were made at communities across the state. different locations within the This was as the governor Oteghele axis of the state. commended the security Folorunsho said the recoveries agencies for their successful highlighted both the persistence operations against terrorists in of crude oil theft syndicates Alkaleri Local Government Area, and the Navy's determination to dismantle their operations, protect critical oil and gas assets and prevent economic losses. He added that the success Francis Sardauna in Katsina further demonstrated the effectiveness of Operation The Katsina State Government Delta Sentinel in degrading has revealed that enrolment criminal networks engaged under its Contributory Health in crude oil theft and illegal Insurance Scheme has risen to bunkering across the Niger 583,460 beneficiaries, representing Delta. a 64 per cent increase from the

The Nigerian Navy has intensified its crackdown on crude oil theft and illegal bunkering under Operation Delta Sentinel, recovering about 105,000 litres of products suspected to be stolen crude oil during separate operations in Delta State. According to a statement by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the operations within the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Delta Area of Operation uncovered concealed storage facilities used by economic saboteurs to stockpile suspected stolen

describing the military offensive as a major breakthrough in the state’s fight against insecurity. Governor Mohammed, who was speaking during a meeting of the Bauchi State Security Council on Thursday, instructed security forces to replicate the recent successes recorded in Alkaleri, Ningi, Ganjuwa, Toro and other affected local government areas through intensified patrols and coordinated ground operations. He urged security agencies to deny criminals freedom of movement by increasing patrols,

President Bola Tinubu has rejoiced with seasoned banker and first Managing Director of Fidelity Bank, Mr. Nebolisa Arah, as he turns 75 today. Also, the Supreme Council of Tijaniyya worldwide has condoled with President Tinubu over the passing of

and that is people-oriented," he added. Speaking on the importance of the Inter-Ministerial Platform on Family Planning, the minister said one of the targets of administration was to turn Nigeria’s large population into productive assets that would help meet up with the vision of a prosperous, peaceful, and people-oriented country.

dismantling forest hideouts and strengthening surveillance across border communities vulnerable to kidnappings, banditry and infiltration. The governor warned traditional rulers Linus Aleke in Abuja against harbouring criminals, allocating land to suspicious persons or facilitating illegal activities, stressing that offenders would face sanctions in accordance with the provisions of the law. He reaffirmed the state's commitment to supporting

security agencies through improved logistics, technology, expanded military presence and additional police stations, while encouraging stronger collaboration with communities and traditional institutions across Bauchi. Mohammed further urged security agencies to remain professional and impartial during forthcoming political activities, ensuring adequate protection for citizens, political parties and democratic processes while maintaining peace and public order across the state.

Katsina Health Insurance Enrollees Hit 583,460 355,000 enrollees recorded in 2023. Governor Dikko Umaru Radda disclosed this yesterday during the flag-off of the enrolment of 184,105 beneficiaries into the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) across the state.

Tinubu Rejoices With Pioneer MD Of Fidelity Bank, Nebolisa Arah, At 75 Deji Elumoye in Abuja

collaboration with Bayer, which will be the first, not only in Nigeria, but I believe in the sub-Saharan African region. "And that's a good plus because not only do we have to depend all the time on things being brought to us, we can produce them here, create jobs for our youth as well, and create country that is prosperous, that is peaceful,

Bauchi Governor Orders Security Forces to Intensify Crackdown on Criminal Hideouts

Navy Recovers 105,000 Litres of Suspected Stolen Crude in Delta Linus Aleke in Abuja

of the country's health and human development index "I have to say that for the family planning community, we're very pleased that there is now an advanced conversation and the plan is being constructed. "For the first time, there will be a pharmaceutical entity able to produce family planning commodities in Nigeria in

Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, the former leader of the Tijaniyya Islamic organisation in Nigeria. The President, in a release issued yesterday by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, highlighted Arah's enduring contributions to the banking sector and his commitment to professionalism.

According to Tinubu, "Mr. Nebolisa Arah laid a foundation of integrity and professionalism not only for Fidelity Bank but for the banking institution generally. "Arah's influence on a generation of bankers and finance sector practitioners who are inspired by his exemplary life of integrity, simplicity and

contentment is noteworthy." The President wished the banking icon more years and a continued life of impact. Arah became the founding Managing Director of the then Fidelity Union Merchant Bank, which later transformed into Fidelity Bank in 1988, at the young age of 37. He led the bank for 15 years.

He attributed the growth to his administration's sustained investment in healthcare financing and reforms aimed at achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in the state. He also announced that enrolment into the state health insurance scheme would henceforth be compulsory for all government employment programmes in the state. He added that an executive memorandum would be issued to enforce compliance across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs). He said the health insurance scheme is intended to shield residents from catastrophic outof-pocket medical expenses while expanding access to affordable and quality healthcare services.

Radda disclosed that retirees, members of the Hisbah Corps, the Katsina State Community Watch Corps and persons with disabilities continued to enjoy free health insurance funded by the state government. He further stated that the state recently paid N243 million as counterpart funding for the Basic Health Care Provision Fund, while its digital enrollee management platform had strengthened transparency and efficiency in healthcare service delivery. In his remarks, the Director General of KTSCHMA, Mohammed Safana, said the agency had enrolled over half a million residents into the health insurance scheme as of July 2026.

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NEWS

RENEWED HOPE AMBASSADORS' PROJECT TOUR...

L-R: Special Assistant to the President on Social Media, Segun Dada, Senior Special Assistant on Public Engagement, Fredrick Nwabufo, Senior Special Assistant on Media and Special Duties and Director of Communications, Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Tunde Rahman; Benue State Deputy Governor, Samuel Ode, and Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, at the site Buruku-Wukari link bridge during the Renewed Hope Ambassadors North-Central Projects Tour

Atiku Alleges Bank Data Breach after Suspicious Payment into His Private Account Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has alleged that the confidentiality of his personal banking information may have been compromised following a suspicious transfer into one of his private accounts. Atiku also called President Bola Tinubu to name the insiders in the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council (PFIPC) scandal, describing the interim report of the ICPC on the PFIPC as an indictment that raises more questions than it answers. Atiku, who described the suspicious transfer into one of his private accounts as a serious

threat to the financial privacy of Nigerians, said the incident has raised concerns about how confidential banking information could have been accessed by unknown individuals. The allegation was contained in a statement issued yesterday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu. According to the statement, an unidentified person transferred money into Atiku’s personal bank account domiciled with one of Nigeria’s leading commercial banks. The transaction reportedly carried the narration, “Contribution Electioneering Campaign.” The former Vice President

Yoruba Tennis Club @100: Eno Seeks Democracy with Real Gains Funmi Ogundare Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has declared that democracy should be measured by the quality of governance and the tangible benefits it delivers to citizens rather than by the conduct of elections alone. Speaking at the third Centenary Lecture of the Yoruba Tennis Club, Lagos, themed: 'Democracy and the Imperative of Good Governance: Renewing Hope in Challenging Times', Eno explained that democracy only retains its legitimacy when it improves the daily lives of the people through quality healthcare, education, infrastructure, food security and other essential public services. "Our task, therefore, is not merely to preserve democracy. It is to make democracy mean something," the governor said. He argued that citizens

experience democracy beyond election day, stressing that governance must translate into improved living conditions. "A citizen does not experience democracy on election day alone. He experiences it at the hospital gate, in his child's classroom, on the road to his farm, and in the price of what he eats. A democracy that never reaches those places loses its moral authority long before it loses an election," he stated. According to him, good governance remains the bridge between democratic promises and their fulfilment. "Elections confer legitimacy; governance justifies it," Eno added. The governor also emphasised the need for transparency and accountability in governance, warning that opaque budgeting and procurement systems create fertile ground for corruption.

maintained that neither he nor his campaign organisation requested, approved or had any prior knowledge of the payment. He stressed that the account involved is a strictly private one and that its details have never been made public, questioning

how an unknown individual obtained the information. “The account is a strictly private one whose details are not in the public domain. This raises a fundamental question: How did unknown persons obtain the confidential banking

details of a private citizen?” the statement read. Atiku warned that the development goes beyond his personal circumstances, arguing that it casts doubt on the security of financial data belonging to millions of Nigerians.

“If the private banking information of a former Vice President and a leading presidential candidate can be accessed and deployed for reasons yet unknown, then no Nigerian’s financial privacy is safe,” the statement added.

Alleged Off-budget Expenditure: Lawmakers Demand Emergency Reconvening of N’Assembly Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

A group of bi-partisan lawmakers in the House of Representatives under the aegis of Save Nigeria Group has called upon the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, to reconvene both Chambers immediately for an emergency session.

The emergency session, the lawmakers said must address the issue of underimplementation of the 2024, 2025 and 2026 Appropriation Acts; the constitutional controversy surrounding the State Police Constitutional Alteration Bill; allegations of off-budget expenditure. Other issues they want the parliament to address as a matter of urgency included:

non-release of capital funds to security agencies, the deteriorating security situation, and measures required to restore public confidence in the rule of law and democratic governance. The concerned lawmakers stated this in a statement issued yesterday and jointly signed by Hon. Awaji-Inombek Abiante (NDC, Rivers); Hon. Abubakar Kusada, (APC, Katsina) and

Hon. Mansur Jega (ADC, Kebbi) on behalf of other lawmakers. The lawmakers clarified that they are neither an opposition platform nor an instrument of any political interest, rather they are legislators increasingly alarmed by the direction of Nigeria’s democracy and the growing tendency of public institutions to subordinate the constitution.

Nigeria, China Seal Creative Industry Pact to Drive Film, Cultural Diplomacy Michael Olugbode in Abuja

Nigeria and China have taken a major step towards deepening cultural diplomacy and expanding cooperation in the creative economy with the signing of a landmark agreement between the China

Movie Channel (CMC) and the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA). The pact, signed yesterday at the China–Nigeria Film and Literature Symposium held at the China Cultural Centre in Abuja, is expected to unlock new opportunities in film co-production, content

exchange, professional training, technology transfer and the global distribution of creative works from both countries. The agreement comes as Nigeria and China mark 55 years of diplomatic relations, with both countries seeking to strengthen people-to-people ties through culture, arts, literature

and entertainment. The partnership was hailed by stakeholders as a strategic move that could transform the creative industries of both nations by connecting Nollywood, one of the world’s largest film industries, with China’s highly developed film and broadcasting ecosystem.

Controversy Trails Nnewi Multi-billion Naira Shops Allocation, LG Chairman Denies Involvement

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

Controversy is currently trailing the construction and allocation of multi-billion-naira blocks of shops constructed at Agbedo Motor Parts Market in Nnewi, Anambra State. A prominent figure in the town,

Chief Gabriel Chukwuma, also widely known as Gabros had in a viral video claimed that there were shady dealings in the market, especially as it had to do with the newly constructed massive blocks of shops. He insisted that over N4 billion

had been realised from illegal allocation of shops in the market and had already been embezzled. Though Chukwuma failed to mention names, but the Chairman of the Nnewi North Local Government Area, Hon. Echezona Anazodo who oversees

the market spoke to journalists during a fact-finding visit to his office on Thursday, said he was neither responsible for the allocation of shops or collection of money for the shops, insisting that the project was handled by private investors.

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NEWS

PAGE 23 PAGE 23 Airline Operators Urge NASS to Scrap AFRICAN REGENERATIVE MEDICINE SUMMIT....

L-R: President/Chairman, Atunse Healthcare Limited, Prof. Kamar T. Adeleke; Group Executive Director of Commercial Operations for Oil and Gas, Dangote Industries, Fatima Aliko Dangote; Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi; Chief Clinical Transition Officer, Atunse Healthcare Limited, Dr. Mercedes Kweh; Chief Science and Technology Officer, Dr. Frederick Kweh, and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Sola Oluwole, during the Launch of Atunse at the African Regenerative Medicine and Longevity Summit held in Lagos recently

PAGE 23 5% TSC, Adopt FAAN’s PSC Model Insist percentage-based system unfair to airlines

Chinedu Eze

The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has called on the National Assembly to scrap the current five per cent Ticket Sales Charge (TSC) and replace it with a structure modelled on the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN)’s system of collecting passenger service charge (PSC), which is specific amount of money paid by passengers on every ticket. AON said the existing percentage-based system of collecting five per cent of the cost of every ticket was unfair to domestic airlines.

The association made its position known yesterday at a public hearing on the proposed revision of the statutory sharing formula for the five per cent TSC, held at the Federal House of Representatives. The umbrella body, which was represented at the hearing by former Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Capt. Roland Iyayi, said adopting the FAAN’s model of Passenger Service Charge will put to an end the controversy over debts emanating from non-payment of TSC to NCAA.

Presenting the association's position to the committee, the AON also argued that a flat charge like that of FAAN's PSC, would remove the distortions created by a percentage levy applied indiscriminately to airline earnings, and put operators on more equal footing regardless of route or ticket pricing. The association also linked its call for reform to the sharp rise in fuel prices affecting airlines nationwide. It said domestic carriers have struggled to remit the five per cent charge to the NCAA since March, managing to do so only by

shifting toward charter flights rather than sustaining regular scheduled operations. “The five per cent service charge has outlived its usefulness. It has become a burden on domestic airlines. We have made a submission on this. We have been proactive. As the AON, we have actually produced a document addressing institutional reform for the entire funding policy of the industry, and we will resolve it. So, essentially, what I am here to say, in a nutshell, is this: there are issues for consideration.

India to Assist Nigeria Cut 50% Post-harvest Losses, Deepen Agricultural Revolution Michael Olugbode in Abuja India has unveiled an ambitious plan to support Nigeria’s drive for food security by helping the country slash post-harvest losses estimated at nearly 50 per cent, modernise livestock production and strengthen food processing, in what could mark a significant boost to bilateral agricultural cooperation. The initiative, which comes as Nigeria battles soaring food prices, declining agricultural

productivity and mounting food insecurity, also includes technology transfer, climatesmart farming, mechanisation, financing and capacity building aimed at transforming the country’s agricultural value chain. Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ambassador Abishek Singh, disclosed the plan on Thursday at the India-Nigeria Trade Forum on Agriculture and Allied Sector in Abuja, organised by the Indian High Commission in partnership with the Abuja

Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI). Speaking on the theme, ‘Cultivating Trade, Growing Together’, Singh said Nigeria possesses enormous agricultural potential but continues to lose almost half of what its farmers produce because of inadequate storage, poor processing capacity, weak logistics and inefficient value chains. He said India, which has transformed itself from a food-deficit nation into one of the world’s largest agricultural

producers through technology and innovation, was prepared to deploy its expertise to help Nigeria reverse the trend. “Nigeria’s agriculture contributes significantly to its GDP, and India is ready to invest in livestock, fisheries and food processing to enhance food security,” Singh said. He added that India would support Nigeria in adopting climate-resilient farming practices to enable farmers to withstand the growing impact of climate change on food production.

Nigeria’s Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Dr. Bernard Doro, has invited Nigerians resident abroad to join the federal government in a strategic national partnership and play a central role in driving

the nation’s economic and social development roadmap. Dr. Doro made the declaration during the 17th Annual Mbaise USA Convention held in Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America, where he addressed an international audience of nearly 3,000 attendees

both physically and online. The minister who praised the diaspora community for its massive Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and sustained commitment to grassroots economic empowerment, added that the administration of President Bola Tinubu considers

Emmanuel Addeh inAbuja

that it will also reduce capital flight associated with overseas The Petroleum Technology education and technical training. Aliyu said the university, Development Fund (PTDF) yesterday said the newly renamed alongside PTDF’s Centre for Skills General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Development and Training in Port University of Geological Science Harcourt, was conceived as part and Engineering Technology of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s (UGSET), Kaduna, will play a human capital base and develop strategic role in supporting the world-class expertise within the federal government’s ambition country. Aliyu said the university’s to build a $1 trillion economy. The Executive Secretary of PTDF development was consistent PresidentOF BolaNAME Tinubu’s and Chairman of the university’s with CHANGE Hope Agenda and the Governing Council, Prof. Shehu Renewed I formerly known and addressed National Development Aliyu, stated this in Kaduna during 2026-2030 as WISDOM BASSEY, now wish the target a press conference on the institution’s Plan to be(NDP), knownparticularly and addressed as growingINNOCENT Nigeria into BASSEY. a $1 trillion operational status, ongoing reforms of WISDOM All former documents remain and strategic direction, stressing economy. valid. The general public should CHANGE NAME CHANGE OF NAME OFplease take note. formerly known and addressed I formerly knownI and addressed I formerly known and addressed as as WISDOM BASSEY, now wish as WISDOM BASSEY, now wish SAIDI OLADIMEJI ODENIYI, now to be known and addressed as to be known andWISDOM addressed as wish to be known and addressed INNOCENT BASSEY. WISDOM INNOCENT BASSEY. as SAHEED OLADIMEJI All former documents remain All former documents ODENIYI. All former documents valid. Theremain general public should valid. The general publictake should please note. remain valid. The general public please take note.I formerly known and should please addressed as take note. I formerly known and addressed as SAIDI OLADIMEJI ODENIYI, now to be known SAIDI OLADIMEJIwish ODENIYI, now and addressed SAHEED OLADIMEJI wish to be knownasand addressed All former documents as SAHEED ODENIYI. OLADIMEJI remaindocuments valid. The general public ODENIYI. All former should please take note. remain valid. The general public should please take note.

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

FG Seeks Diaspora Partnership to Drive Economic Growth

Tony Icheku in Owerri

PTDF: Yar’Adua Varsity’ll Boost FG’s $1tn Economy, Reduce Capital Flight

the diaspora vital to achieving sustainable national growth. He emphasised that the group’s core focus areas healthcare, technology, skills acquisition, and poverty alleviation - align directly with the priority agenda of the federal government.

saturday AUGUST 8, 2026 • T H I S D AY

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Garlands for

A distinguished scholar, conscientious public servant, and unswerving democrat. May your days be long. And may God's blessings and protection continually abide with you. CONGRATULATIONS.

PROF. NENTAWE GOSHWE YILWATDA,

NATIONAL CHAIRMAN, APC. Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff F.O. Oborevwori Governor, Delta State

saturday AUGUST 8, 2026 • T H I S D AY

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saturday AUGUST 8, 2026 • T H I S D AY

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Henry Abebe:

Tw e l f t h Ye a r R e m e m b r a n c e Ahey! Your passing in 2014 dimmed the radiance of life not only for me, but for the countless friends whose lives you enriched with your warmth, wit, and generosity of spirit. You were much more than a Prince Charming. You were the heartbeat of every gathering, the one whose presence transformed ordinary moments into cherished memories. Blessed with an extraordinary sense of humour, you possessed the rare ability to find laughter even in the most difficult circumstances. Your sharp wit and remarkable insights could turn the gravest of situations into occasions of shared joy, leaving everyone around you in uncontrollable laughter. Although your passing left an enduring void, I remain profoundly grateful to Almighty God for the privilege of having shared in your friendship. For while your earthly journey ended twelve years ago, the warmth of your spirit, the brilliance of your smile, and the memories you created continue to illuminate our lives. Time has not diminished your impact; if anything, it has deepened our appreciation of the remarkable man you were. You may no longer be with us in person, but in memory, in laughter, and in the enduring love of those whose lives you touched, you remain ever present. May your gentle soul continue to rest in perfect peace.

Henry Oyailo Abebe (1961 - 2014)

Signed

CHIEF JAMES ONANEFE IBORI Governor of Delta State 1999–2007

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AUGUST 8, 2026 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

INSIGHT 13

SEPTEMBER 25, 2021 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

INSIGHT

Free at last... What a waste!

of Amazon President Buhari Daisy Danjuma:In ThePraise Glowing at 74

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Wunti Dada: A Place ofRitual ConcernAttacks Stop nsecurity is gradually becom- incidents in which hoodlums and Killings ing an everyday reality in allegedly break doors and gates

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by of the EFCC, Buhari by his action has successfully brought back to President Muhammadu the the reins of n the hen grand tapestry of Buhari took overby magnitude lives President touched thetransformed. public consciousness the need to treat public funds with the highest level power on May 29, 2015, Nigeria was sadly a and brokencommunities state in human history, epochs are of transparency and accountability. many respects. As a result of many other factors including bad our society, and for many during the night to gain access to occasionally bycorruption, the government True could greatness isAfter measured not looters on their keeping treasury toes and at bay through the governancepunctuated and untold level of not he Advocacy for Alleged Witches (AfAW) students living offspending campus, their rooms. Valuable belongings emergence of rare,totranscendent merely bythethe heights of power one Buhari moved EFCC, particularly, President to curb unnecessary live up to its financial obligations citizens and service providers at both urges the Nigerian public to stop ritual the fear of becoming such as smartphones, laptops, habits of the on what economists call articles of ostentation.the Part next federal and state levels.whose very existence attacks and killings because the notion figures—icons attains in the corridors ofnation national of the disclosures of the President’s stock taking was how the country Indeed one of the first official assignments that President Buhari carried of ritual money school and wealth is completely victim is becoming increasingly power banks, bags and redefines the parameters of grace, capital, but by how deeply one’s frittered away billions in foreign currency by importing goods, which can baseless. AfAW is making this call following the out was the approval of billions of Naira in bailout funds to enable state difficult to ignore. money are among the items often intellect, and profound roots those remain anchored in atthe soil be produced home. One of such items was rice, a major staple among reported arrest of suspected ritualists in Oyo State governors pay something as basic societal as workers’ salaries. Granting bailout Wunti Dada, a well-known forcibly taken. In some cases, banning rice importation into the country, the President on one in southern Nigeria. The local media reported funds was a huge boost to national security because the of pressure of arrears impact. home. SenatorNigerians. Daisy By Danjuma’s hand had saved the nation billions in foreign currency thatvictims members have of the Western Nigeria Security ofWhen unpaid monthly salaries building the country was community in annually. Bauchi State, also reportedly chronicling such dangerously paragonsall overfootprints ofadurable, everlasting And, on the other hand, the President has opposite boosted domestic production Tatari Network, Amotekun, arrestedduring suspectedsuch ritualists ticking bomb. located Abubakar sustaining injuries of Ask enduring legacy, names like remind youlegacy areitindelibly of riceetched and in theinto process had nudged the country into self sufficiency in with the body parts of a 73-year-old man. the naysayers and they would readily of how long Polytechnic, has become incidents. Cleopatra, Nefertiti, Helen of Troy, thecontributed vibrant toacademic sands of food production. He the also created Ali millions of jobs for young people in the ricea The suspects, who were apprehended in the took President Buhari to appoint his ministers and how that source of concern for some stuWhat the situation value chain. Boluwaji area makes in Ibadan, said that a Muslim collapse of the economy as if, without ministers, governance was frozen. Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, University of Benin (UNIBEN) and What is most admirable aboutdents Presidentresiding Buhari and his government is What cleric asked them todisturbing procure someishuman But buying that narrative would amount to what a famous Nigerian writer, in the area. particularly that body Princess Diana, Grace Kelly, Elizathe storied grounds of Itohan Girls its frugal management of scarce national resources to attain optimum goals. parts for rituals. Ritual attacks are widespread Chimamanda Adichie, termed “the danger of a single story”. Yet the whole should ordinarily be a peaceful in Nigeria. WuntiIrrational Dada isconceptions not a community beth Taylor, Sophia Loren, Grammar Recall that since President Buhari stepped in the saddle, oil revenue dropped of how to story was that many of our citizens didHedy not know how decrepit a state School. community without security presence. There abysmally as to sabotage him knowing all the bigwhere promises students he made to live, make money or become wealthy and successful President Buhari in 2015. Rai cross Lamarr, andinherited Aishwarya Refusing to subscribe toifthe citizens during his campaigns. But with theand little resources that for tricklesome in, the undergird these atrocities. therefore necessary forsymbols him to take of stock againsttransient the background study rest has, are police stationsMany and Nigerians security theIt was mind as timeless nature of modern ostentaPresident is achieving what governments that received oil windfalls could believe in blood money, knownYet, in of the fact that the departing government did not, reportedly, cooperate full residents, become a place where strongly personnel around the area. ethereal, beauty. tion, she and hernotfamily channeled dream of. some local languages as Ogun Owo (Yoruba) well with thehead-turning incoming government in terms of leaving workable handover the fear of night attacks and or Ogwu the persistence of think nightthat time Yet,Although to observe transformative Today, theinto trains are up and running daily from Abuja totime Kaduna. And ego (Igbo). They they notes. PresidentSenator Goodluck Daisy Jonathan was gracious in defeat, many resources theft is never farand away. attacks from Lagos toinfrastrucIbadan a brand new rail track was started completed; could becomeraises rich, orserious successfulquestions through ritual of his appointees were stillis sulking over whatthat they saw as their personal Ehanire Danjuma to realize monumental educational citizens are already commuting daily to and fro these two major cities in the sacrifice. Unfortunately, this is notof thesecurity case. losses and therefore pulled all the stops to make things difficult for the Students living in different about the effectiveness she does not merely inhabit this ture. country seamlessly as they reap from the dividends of democracy. And with Ritual wealth has no basis in reason, science, Buhari government. lodges within the community surveillance and response mechacelestial she and elevates it.obscurantist She Erasmus Ikhide, theikhideluckyerasway this government is going, before 2023 when the President would or reality. Home movies known as Africa Even withclass; the obvious unpatriotic behaviour of the PDP nisms in protecting residents. have experienced leave, the entire country would be linkedreportedly by rail with all of its economic magic or Nollywood films have not helped appointees and their supporters still inphysical government hell-bent on making effortlessly fuses timeless mus@gmail.com advantages. matters. These movies continue to reinforce things difficult for Buhari, the President moved on with his methodical repair Idris Rufai, Abubakar Tatari majesty with an unyielding steel these mistaken notions and other superstitions. of a broken country. The first thing he did was to identify all possible sources Ainofenokhai Ojeifo, Abuja Ali Polytechnic, Bauchi State of character, intellectual Families, churches, mosques, and other public of income to the nation and directedbrilliance, that all inflows be and a queenly dominance that com-of institutions do not encourage the interrogation paid into one single account in line with the policy of these traditional occult beliefs. There are Single Treasury Accountreverence (TSA). mands absolute across S ATUURRDAY DAYNNEEWWSSPA PAPPEERR no robust efforts to criticize or dispel these The TSA policy, interestingly, was mooted by the TTHHEESAT generations. As she marks her EDITOR ADEBOWALE EDITORYEMI OBINNA CHIMA irrational and paranormal claims in schools, PDP government but its penchant for imprudence What's the Count? DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU milestone 74th year, Senator Daisy colleges, and universities. So millions of and lack of accountability denied it the courage of MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO Nigerians up blindly believing thatkeep they implementingstands the policy.as What President literally DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU Danjuma antheimmortal used togrow be a math teacher but I can't DEPUTY MANAGING ISRAEL IWEGBU CHAIRMAN EDITORIALDIRECTOR BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI could make money through ritual sacrifice of did was to gather the nation’s money intoand one box institution ofallstyle, substance, CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN countbody of the number of has times human parts. The belief led Trump many and locked it up with a big padlock and watched for EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL UWUGIAREN MANAGING EDITORIYOBOSA BOLAJI ADEBIYI selfless has threatened Iran with destruction Nigerians to commit crimes and perpetrate any thief toservice. come close.Beyond her classic THE THEOMBUDSMAN OMBUDSMANKAYODE KAYODEKOMOLAFE KOMOLAFE human radiatrocities. Many Nigerians have been jailed Who canbeauty—breathtaking, blame the President for almost developing and then backed down. or are undergoing court trials due to ritualparanoia over the safeguard of the national treasury ant, luminous, majestic, enchanting, The counting difficulties also applies with related attacks and murder. with revelations and reports of mind-boggling looting exquisite, and alluringly graceful— the amount of money has earned Not too long ago, the Trump police arrested some that took place in the 16 years of the PDP? 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DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI soon. Fortunately Constitution restricts beliefs are baselessthe superstitions. Nigerian was duty bound to bring sanity and accountability back DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH decades of active engagemedia, schools, and colleges should help inAcross national spending. the number of presidential terms to two SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI educate themust public.remain They should Thus,in under President Buhari, thelegislature, Economic and DIRECTOR PATRICKDIBIAGWU, EIMIUHI NDUKA MOSERI ment law, commerce, CONTROLLERSASSOCIATE ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA and that and is a reorient fact and a fact assist in reasoning Nigerians out of this Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which had CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO and human upliftment, she has for the world to prosper. DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO killer-superstitious absurdity and nonsense. remained comatose for years, was woken up to resume TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com proven thatfrom truetheroyalty defined Dennis 28 Landale Box Leo IgweFitzgerald, directs the Advocacy for St, Alleged its duties. Apart trillions ofis Naira of looted TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com Witches fundsmerely and property from corrupt but politicians not byrecovered titles or status, Hill, Vic, (AfAW) Australia

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CELEBRATING A GREAT

FATHER!

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Daddy, you’re a legend! Your life story is exemplary! May God’s goodness and mercy continue to be with you.

- Dapo Awofisayo

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ajia Memunat Olayinka Aminu, popularly known as Hajia Candy recently celebrated her 50th birthday in grand style at the Oriental Hotel, Lagos. The milestone event, which trended under the hashtag #HajiaCandy3in1 Celebration, features the official launch of her NGO, the Meymuna Enpowerment Foundation, and her inspiring new book titled "Storms of Life". a memoir detailing her journey of overcoming pain, illness and challenges through resilience and faith, supported by her husband, family and network of friends Ismail Aminu; Mariam Aminu; Celebrant, Hajia Olayinka Memunat Aminu; Muhammed PHOTOS: Kunle Ogunfuyi L-R: Aminu (behind); her husband, Alhaji Isimila Aminu and Aminu Aminu

HRH Alhaji Dr. Muhammed Abali Muhammed Idrisa, Emir of Fika (middle) and Chairman Yobe State Council of Traditional Rulers with classmates

L-R: Alhaji Ismail Aminu; wife, celebrant Hajia Olayinka Memunat Aminu; Chairman of the day, Dr. Ahmed Sulieman and Hon. Idris Salman

L-R: Dr. Mrs Sherrifat Ahmed-Sulieman and Dr Ahmed Sulieman

L-R: Oladele Oyelola,Oluyemisi Oyelola; Olubunmi Kunle and Daniel Kunle

L-R: Hajia Azeezat Eniabiyi and Hajia Rasheedat Azeefan

L-R: Alhaji Ismila Aminu and wife Hajia Olayinka Aminu

L-R: Hajia Toyin Kolade ; Ejide Bakare and Hajia Adiatu Mayegun

L-R: Olori Azeezat Abisola Elegushi; Olori Adekunbi Elegushi and Olori Adejoke Elegushi

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L-R: Princess Omotunde Elegushi and Mrs Kofowora Olulana

L-R: Comrade Abiodun Olaniyi; Hon Olowonawu Solomon; Hon. Idris Salman and Chief Owoniyi Akere

L-R: Dr Mrs Sherrifat Ahmed-Sulieman ; Dr Ahmed Sulieman; Joy Emeghava; Alhaji Ismaila Aminu; Hajia Olayinka Memunat Aminu and Halima Oriabure

L-R: Ejiro and Emmanuel Imafidon

L-R: Mrs Omotayo Disu;Olori Taiwo Elegusi and Mrs Joy Oluwole

L-R: Alhaji Ismila Aminu and wife, Hajia Olayinka Aminu

L-R: Alhaja Toyin Kolade and Princess Adia Maiyegun

L-R: Mr. and Mrs Lawrence Juwah

Cross-section of guests present at the Oriental Hall

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NEWS XTRA

GOLF AND NETWORKING SESSION FOR BANKERS....

L-R: Social Secretary, Association of Corporate Communication and Marketing Professionals in Banks (ACAMB), Macqueen Afolabi; Publicity Secretary, Abiodun Coker; First Vice President, Chinwe Bode-Akinwande; Past President, Rasheed Bolarinwa; Captain, Ikoyi Club 1938, Afolabi Balogun; Vice Chairman, Ikoyi Club, Bolaji Martins; President, ACAMB, Jide Sipe; Former President and current Board of Trustees member, ACAMB, Lanre Alabi; Head, Partnership and Hospitality, Golf Section, Ikoyi Club 1938; Second Vice President, ACAMB, Morolake Philip-Ladipo and General Secretary, ACAMB, Olugbenga Owootomo, during the Golf and Networking Experience, hosted by ACAMB to commemorate its 30th Anniversary celebration in Ikoyi, Lagos, recently

Otedola Acquires Additional N18.11bn Worth of First Holdoc Shares, Stock Price Hits N145.40 Kayode Tokede

The Chairman of First Holdo Plc, Mr. Femi Otedola, has increased his stake in First Holdings, following his fresh acquisition of 138.04 million ordinary shares valued at about N18.11 billion. The regulatory filing on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) revealed that the shares were purchased by Calvados Global Services Limited, a company linked to Otedola as a significant shareholder, at N131.20 per share on the Exchange. The transaction completed on August 6, raised Otedola’s holdings from 25.8 per cent in 2025, to 26.7 per cent (11,901,059,657 billion shares), further strengthening his position

in the financial services group. The billionaire investor in July 2026 had acquired additional 2,485,226,155 shares of the Group to hike its stake to 26 per cent. His latest acquisition and the impressive corporate earnings reported by the holding company, followed a strong rally in First HoldCo’s share price on the Nigerian bourse. Shares in the company have surged this week, gaining N15.85 per share or 12.23per cent Week-on- Week (WoW) to close yesterday, at N145.40 per share from N129.55 per share the stock closed for trading in July 2026. Also, the Group stock has advanced by more than 203.5per cent since the start of the year, driven by sustained investor

Abiodun Inaugurates Adesan Road, Announces Arrest of Four Kidnappers Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, yesterday inaugurated the 3.3-kilometre Adesan Road in Mowe, Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area, as he announced the arrest of four additional suspects linked to the abduction of seven students of Gateway ICT Polytechnic, Saapade. Governor Abiodun described the rescue of the students and the arrest of the suspects as a major victory in the state’s war against criminality, declaring that Ogun State would never become a safe haven for criminals. It would be recalled that two members of the kidnapping gang were arrested on Thursday during the operation that led to the successful rescue of the students. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the governor expressed appreciation to the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), the National Association of Ogun State Students (NAOSS), and other student bodies for their patience, understanding, and

support throughout the period of the students’ captivity. He attributed the successful rescue operation to the coordinated efforts of security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Ogun State Security Network Agency (Amotekun Corps), local hunters, and vigilantes. The governor also acknowledged the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Inspector General of Police, and the Director-General of the DSS. “Sometime before the end of July, some of our students were kidnapped by unscrupulous elements. To the glory of God, with the cooperation and collaboration of our law enforcement agencies and the support we received from Mr. President, the Inspector General of Police and the Director General of the DSS, we worked night and day.

demand and expectations around ongoing reforms under Otedola’s leadership. The stock recently climbed to an all-time high of N140 per share, pushing the company’s market capitalisation to N6.37

trillion and reinforcing its status as Nigeria’s most valuable listed banking group. The latest move comes shortly after Otedola signalled plans to increase his stake beyond the current level. In a recent

interview, he disclosed that he has invested over N600 billion of his personal wealth in the lender, describing it as a long-term commitment. “My investment threshold is always over and above 51 per

cent,” he had said. “One of my key investment principles is that firm shareholder control, with due regard for minority interest, is a key ingredient to executing reforms and restructuring to deliver value to all stakeholders.”

Education Without Ethics Fuels Leadership Crisis, Helmbridge Warns Sunday Ehigiator

The Director of Helmbridge Study Centre, Mr. Wilfred Dieke, has called on public and private educational institutions across Nigeria to place greater emphasis on ethical character formation alongside academic excellence, warning that the country risks producing educated individuals without the moral compass required for responsible

leadership. Dieke made the call during a press conference held recently in Lagos to announce activities marking the 50th anniversary of Helmbridge Study Centre, a notfor-profit organisation dedicated to the ethical formation of boys from the age of eight. According to him, the yearlong anniversary celebration, which began in July 2026 through till June 2027, will

commemorate five decades of the institution’s commitment to nurturing ethical values while also serving as a platform to raise funds for infrastructure upgrades, including the establishment of a robotics laboratory to prepare children for the era of Artificial Intelligence. Speaking on the need for a renewed focus on character education, Dieke argued that Nigeria’s leadership challenges

TENSE OSUN POLL: VOTE BUYING WORRIES INEC across incidents recorded between 2025 and June 2026.” In the meantime, reactions have continued to trail President Tinubu's directive ordering the EFCC to return to court and vacate the order freezing the Osun State Government's bank accounts ahead of the August 15 governorship election. IPAC, in a statement issued yesterday by its Caretaker Committee Chairman, Odesola Oluseye Titus, described President Tinubu's directive to the EFCC as a demonstration of respect for democratic principles and the rule of law. The council said the President's action had reinforced confidence in Nigeria's democratic institutions and should serve as a guide for all agencies involved in the electoral process. Commending Tinubu for directing the anti-graft agency to vacate the court order, IPAC also praised the President's insistence on the independence and professionalism of law

enforcement agencies. Quoting Tinubu's position that anti-corruption agencies should discharge their statutory responsibilities "independently, professionally, without fear or favour or political interference," the council described the President as "the father of the nation." It urged INEC, the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to emulate the President's example by performing their constitutional responsibilities impartially. According to IPAC, the President's directive should guide the conduct of all agencies involved in the forthcoming governorship election, stressing that security agencies and electoral officials must act professionally to sustain public confidence in the electoral process. The council also appealed to political actors to respect the rules of engagement and urged eligible voters to come out en masse on election day, expressing confidence that every

vote would count. However, the opposition Accord Party demanded the immediate resignation of the Chairman of the EFCC, Ola Olukoyede, insisting that he should be held accountable for approving what it described as the unconstitutional freezing of the Osun State Government's bank accounts. Speaking at a world press conference in Abuja, the party's National Chairman, Chief Maxwell Mgbudem, commended President Tinubu for what he termed a timely intervention that prevented a constitutional crisis. He, however, argued that the EFCC chairman had embarrassed the President, damaged Nigeria's democratic image and brought the anti-corruption agency into disrepute. Mgbudem said if Olukoyede failed to resign voluntarily, President Tinubu should remove him from office to restore public confidence in the Commission. The Accord chairman also

stem not from a shortage of educated citizens but from a deficit of principled leaders. “Nigeria’s greatest challenge today is arguably not the scarcity of educated people but the shortage of principled leaders. The country is replete with highly educated individuals who have abused public trust, undermined institutions and sacrificed the common good on the altar of personal gain,” he said. called for the immediate release of about 60 of the party's members allegedly detained in Abuja, Osun and Nasarawa States, saying their continued detention could heighten political tension ahead of the election. He further urged INEC to conduct a free, fair and credible governorship election, describing the Osun poll as a critical test for Nigeria's democracy ahead of the 2027 general election. In a sharp contrast, the Executive Director of CISLAC and Head of Transparency International Nigeria, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, criticised the President's intervention, warning that directing the EFCC to seek the lifting of the court order could weaken the operational independence of anti-corruption institutions. Addressing journalists in Abuja, Rafsanjani argued that while governance should not be unnecessarily disrupted, presidential intervention in specific enforcement actions created a dangerous precedent.

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Bola Oyebamiji:

Osun Deserves Business-minded Governor

Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), the All Progressives Congress candidate in the August 15, 2026, Osun State governorship election, believes his years in banking, public finance and public administration have prepared him to lead the state. A former Commissioner for Finance under two administrations and immediate past Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority, Oyebamiji says Osun needs a business-minded leader capable of translating its abundant human and natural resources into shared prosperity. He speaks on his vision for the state, his PROSPERITY Agenda, governance priorities, security concerns and why he believes the APC will reclaim Osun. Sunday Ehigiator brings the excerpts:

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hy do you believe you are best qualified to be the next governor of Osun State? I am running because I believe that I have what it takes to turn around the declining fortune of Osun State. The state has an estimated population of about five million citizens. We are blessed with vast human capital and abundant mineral resources — all tangible assets that can elevate our state to a new level of prosperity. To maximise these assets, Osun requires a focused, credible, knowledgeable manager with proven character and capacity. A leader who can

confidently sign their signature and stand by it. I, Bola Oyebamiji, offer myself because I have the managerial competence and experience to reposition Osun State for greatness and deliver the dividends of democracy to our people. I have served as Commissioner for Finance, working directly with two governors, and I also served as Managing Director of the state’s investment arm, OSICOL. The records are there, and my antecedents are clear. I am that manager that Osun State needs to flourish. I became MD of OSICOL, now known as Omoluabi Holdings Limited, and the achievements are there for anyone to verify. From OSICOL, I was appointed Commissioner for Finance under former Governor Rauf Aregbesola, and we delivered

excellently. I also served our leader, Adegboyega Oyetola as Finance Commissioner, also without blemish. Later, I was appointed Managing Director of NIWA, and in two years, we recorded unprecedented progress, and the results have never been matched since the establishment of NIWA. These experiences give me confidence that with hard work, competence, and God’s grace, success will always follow. We are in this race to win, to serve, and to deliver value to our party and our people. Why do you believe the people of Osun should replace the current administration in the August 15 governorship election?

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Bola Oyebamiji: Osun Deserves Business-minded Governor The facts speak for themselves. And to properly situate why Osun deserves a better deal at this time, the last allocation received by the APC administration of Governor Gboyega Oyetola from the FederationAccountAllocation Committee (FAAC) stood at approximately N2.6 billion. Today, the average monthly allocation to the state is about N16 billion without commensurate values to the state and her citizens. In fact, few of the infrastructure projects delivered by the current administration were awarded in secrecy to incompetent contractors while many of such projects have failed before commissioning. To arrest the current drift in the state, I therefore seek your support as we approach the August 15, 2026, governorship election in Osun State. I have spent 12 years in the topmost levels of government, working directly with tough, credible managers — two former governors. As Commissioner for Finance, you must thoroughly analyse, review, and recommend every financial decision. I understand government operations deeply. Among all the other candidates, I am the only one with these combinations of highlevel experience, proven records, and capacity in both the private and public sectors. I have the experience. I have the records. I have the antecedents. And I am prepared to lead Osun State to a new era. I was shaped in a targetoriented industry: banking, which rewards performance and sanctions inefficiency. This philosophy has guided my professional and personal life for decades. I am committed to a fair reward system, helping everyone reach their potential without bias. My administration will be firmly rooted in fairness and equity. It will be a new dawn for our people. Our people can no longer sit and watch the enormous resources of the state being expended without equal value or meaningful improvement in their daily lives. Osun State cannot afford to be left behind in the current wave of reforms, development and economic transformation being championed by the administration of our great leader, Mr President, His Excellency, President BolaAhmed Tinubu, GCFR. We must therefore seize this moment of national transformation and ensure that Osun State becomes an active participant and beneficiary of the Renewed Hope Agenda. This is why I believe Osun State deserves a change in leadership at this point in time. Can you walk us through your PROSPERITY agenda? As you may have noticed, our Prosperity Agenda has continued to gain widespread acceptance among the people of Osun. So far, we have taken our campaign to twenty-four local government areas spread across seven federal constituencies in the state. Within the next forty-eight hours, our campaign train will cover the remaining six local government areas across the two outstanding federal constituencies. As a party, our firm belief is that the primary responsibility of any government, as provided in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is the security and welfare of its citizens. Consequently, our Prosperity Agenda is built on seven key pillars: P – Poverty Alleviation, Workers’ Welfare, and Job Creation; R – Responsive, Accountable, and Transparent Governance; O – Opportunities for Economic Growth, Support Programmes for Small and Medium-Scale Enterprises (SMEs), and Youth and Women Empowerment; S – Security, Safety, and Social Protection; P – ProductiveAgriculture Through Public-Private Partnerships and Rural Development; E – Education, Skills Development, and Targeted Investment in Healthcare Delivery; and R – Renewed Investment in Infrastructure to Drive Inclusive Growth, Culture, and Tourism. Osun is historically the cradle of the Yoruba people and home to UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Osun-Osogbo sacred grove. Every town has unique cultural events that can be leveraged economically. We aim to restore Osun to a prominent position culturally and economically. Agriculture and its value chains will receive maximum attention. Osun has fertile land and a youthful population, and the market is growing. We will create the next generation of millionaires from agriculture. Public-private partnerships, particularly in agro-allied and ICT sectors, will be prioritised. MSMEs, especially women and youth-led businesses, will be supported with financing, training, and empowerment. What specific programmes will your administration implement within the first 100 days? By the Grace of God, after the good people of Osun would have handed me the mandate, we will, in line with our campaign promises, within our first one hundred days in office, undertake a comprehensive review of all outstanding entitlements owed to active and retired workers and commence immediate payment. We are equally committed to ensuring that the Dagbolu Dry Port becomes fully operational. In addition to these, through strategic partnerships, we will commence the training and empowerment of not fewer than 10,000 young people in information and communication technology. We will also institutionalise monthly meetings of the State

During the 2022 governorship election, more than 25 members of our party were murdered by members of the political party in power in Osun. In my own local government area for example, the Chairman of Irewole Local Government, Honourable Remi Abass, was killed within the council secretariat last year. Between 2023 to date, several of our members and other Osun citizens have been killed by agents of the government. Our party has also documented several other politically motivated attacks and killings, for which we continue to seek justice through the courts. Therefore, the ongoing political violence in the state has all the signs of the government in power on it. Just recently, the Inspector-General of Police visited Osun State and publicly raised allegations concerning individuals accused of criminal activities being housed within the Government House. Reports also emerged a few days ago concerning the arrest of a suspected criminal within the private residence of the Secretary to the State Government in Osogbo. Furthermore, reports from last night indicated that some of our members were attacked in Ede, the hometown of Governor Ademola Adeleke. As an opposition party, these are some of the experiences of members of our party. Ironically, it is the Accord party and the government of Adeleke that would cry foul while our members bear the scars of political violence.

•Oyebamiji Security Council involving security agencies, traditional rulers, and local government leaders. Furthermore, we will launch pilot off-grid renewable energy projects in selected public institutions and rural communities. Similarly, we will conduct a comprehensive fiscal sustainability review covering state revenue, expenditure, and debt obligations. We will also undertake a state-wide infrastructure audit to identify priority economic roads and other critical infrastructure needs. These, among others, are the initiatives that we consider essential within our first one hundred days in office. What makes you think you can defeat an incumbent? Election is about numbers. We have the numbers. Majority of those with the incumbent with whom they prosecuted the election in 2022, are now with us. During that time, with all the shenanigans, the difference in their votes and our own was just four percent. And those who joined us from their camp are about 50 percent.

So, you do the arithmetic. Besides, he would not be the first incumbent to lose power in Osun. Our party, both at the national and state levels have demonstrated readiness to commit their time, energy, experience and resources towards ensuring the victory of our great party. With their support and that of the good people of Osun, we are confident that the APC will be returned to the seat of government in Osun. The people of Osun State are ready. The Osun APC is ready. Our campaign is ready. Together, we will win. Together, we will rescue Osun State. Together, we will build a prosperous Osun State. Tell us about the dimensions of the political violence in Osun State? The truth is that, we are the victims, the governor is just raising alarm where none existed. Let therefore seize this opportunity to reassure Osun people and Nigerians, through you, that both the APC and I have been victims of the persistent political violence in Osun State.

What is your final appeal to the electorate ahead of Saturday’s governorship election? I appreciate the entire theAPC and theAsiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO) Movement. I humbly seek continued support for my party, the APC, and the agenda my candidacy represents. We mean well for the people of Osun State, and by the grace of God and the support of the people, we shall emerge victorious in the forthcoming governorship election come August 15th, 2026. To our people in Osun, do not feel intimidated by noise from the governor. Remain peaceful and committed to our resolve to stop the irresponsible dancing in our dear State. We need a new face, that is business-minded and that will not concentrate development in a particular section of the state. In the course of this journey, we have engaged with every segment of our society: our revered traditional rulers; private-sector operators; market men and women; students; artisans; civil servants; members of civil society organisations; religious leaders; professionals; youths and women. Across all these engagements, one message has been consistent and clear: the people of Osun State can no longer afford to endure another day of the current uninspiring administration in the state beyond November 27th, 2026. Let us therefore collectively send the government packing on Saturday, August 15, 2026, so that by November 27, 2026, a new dawn will be birth in Osun.

When Wealth Raises Questions: ‘19’ Explores Nigeria’s Culture of Easy Money Tosin Clegg

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n today’s Nigeria, the display of extravagant wealth on social media has become almost routine. Luxury cars worth hundreds of millions of naira line the entrances of exclusive nightclubs, while expensive champagne, cognac and limited-edition whiskies are ordered by the crate, often with little public curiosity about how such fortunes were made. While legitimate wealth has grown through technology, entertainment, entrepreneurship and the digital economy, the scale of conspicuous consumption has also fuelled difficult conversations about the country’s growing fascination with quick money. Increasingly, many Nigerians are asking whether society has become too comfortable celebrating wealth without questioning its source. It is this uncomfortable reality that ‘19’, a gripping new crime drama, confronts head-on. Rather than celebrating cybercrime or reinforcing stereotypes, the film traces the origins of Nigeria’s internet fraud culture through the life of Ndubuisi Madueke, an exceptionally brilliant young man whose search for success gradually draws him into a dangerous world where ambition, desperation and opportunity collide. Set during the early years of Nigeria’s internet revolution, ‘19’ revisits the emergence of the infamous “419” culture, exploring the economic pressures, social influences and moral compromises that blurred the line between survival and criminality for many young people. More importantly, the film goes beyond the scams themselves.

•Odunsi It examines the devastating consequences that fraudulent lifestyles leave behind—the broken families, fractured friendships, damaged reputations and emotional scars often hidden beneath the glamour of sudden wealth. At the centre of the production is multiple award-winning actor Stan Nze, whose compelling portrayal of Ndubuisi captures the emotional transformation from an ambitious young dreamer into a man forced to confront the consequences of his choices. His performance anchors a film that combines suspense with powerful social commentary. The story is further enriched by an accomplished cast that includes Sola Sobowale, Bisola Aiyeola, Deyemi Okanlawon, William Benson, Demola Adedoyin, Enado Odunsi, Tayo Faniran and Boma

Akpore. Their performances provide emotional depth, showing how crime rarely affects only the perpetrator but also parents, spouses, friends and entire communities. The title itself carries symbolic weight. ‘19’ draws inspiration from Section 419 of Nigeria’s Criminal Code, the law historically associated with advance-fee fraud. Yet the film deliberately avoids simplistic judgments. Instead, it asks difficult questions about the choices people make, the society that shapes those choices and the true cost of pursuing wealth without integrity. Writer, producer and director Tola Odunsi describes the project as the culmination of months of extensive research, writing, filming and testing. Reflecting on the journey, Odunsi posed a question that captures the essence of the film: “You can outsmart the police, the banks and the system. But can you outrun the truth?” The film opens in cinemas nationwide on September 11, 2026, with distribution by Nile Entertainment. Beyond the cinema release, the producers are also seeking to extend the conversation into society. In partnership with Aforevo TV’s Build Africa Store, Nile Entertainment has launched the #19TheFilmChallenge, a nationwide awareness campaign designed to stimulate conversations about fraud, cybercrime and ethical decision-making among young Nigerians. Adding further excitement is a N5 million grand prize, encouraging creative participation while reinforcing the campaign’s broader message against internet fraud. At a time when online scams continue to damage reputations, destroy trust and cost victims billions of naira across the world, ‘19’ arrives as more than another crime thriller.

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Uwais Maiwada: From Biochemist to Fashion, Lifestyle Entrepreneur Uwais Abdullahi Maiwada, son of a Court of Appeal judge, defied expectations by turning away from a career in biochemistry and molecular biology to building a thriving fashion and lifestyle brand in Abuja. Today, his upscale fashion house and signature tea lounge attract governors, top public officials, business executives and other influential Nigerians. He spoke with Chuks Okocha about entrepreneurship, skills development, wardrobe management and his vision for creating jobs through innovation

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our journey extends beyond fashion into entrepreneurship, skills development and youth empowerment. Can you take us through how Uwais Maiwada evolved from a passion project into a multifaceted enterprise? My name is Uwais Abdullahi Maiwada. I am from Keffi Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, and I am also the Magayaki of the Keffi Emirate. I ventured into fashion out of passion. The Uwais brand started in 2017 as Uwais Caps, but we did not go very far with it. I then decided to focus fully on fashion. It all started in Keffi as an experiment. I converted a gazebo in my father’s house into a small factory after buying two sewing machines. By the grace of God, we later moved to Maitama, Abuja, after gaining some experience. While in Maitama, I realised many young people wanted to become self-reliant, so we began training them in fashion skills to enable them become entrepreneurs. That also led to the establishment of the Uwais Maiwada Aid Foundation (UMAF), a nonprofit organisation focused on education and skills development. On July 28, 2025, the foundation organised its first Impact Forum, which promoted the transition from classroom learning to vocational skills. We believe vocational education creates employment opportunities because acquired skills can generate income. We also empowered young women and developed proposals for state governments to establish skill acquisition centres through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs). Our model differs from conventional skill centres because it combines a training centre with a production centre. Many skill acquisition programmes fail because beneficiaries sell the equipment given to them. Under our model, trainees move directly into production after completing their training. Through partnerships with schools, hotels, government agencies and paramilitary organisations, they already have a market for their products and services. Rather than simply empowering people with equipment, we create sustainable employment opportunities. Government can provide support, while private operators manage the centres efficiently through PPP arrangements. Beyond that, we introduced wardrobe management, especially for executives. Many busy professionals struggle to decide what to wear. We work with clients monthly by reviewing their schedules and preparing appropriate outfits for each engagement. Your appearance communicates a great deal about you, so we help clients make the right impression without worrying about daily wardrobe decisions. I remember discussing this idea with a state governor shortly after completing a Harvard Online course in Design Thinking and Innovation. When I explained the concept, he replied, “Did you enter my head?” because it addressed a challenge he personally faced. Sometimes we see public officials attending events with avoidable wardrobe issues simply because of their busy schedules. Our wardrobe management service addresses that gap. Although it is still being developed, it is an important part of our brand. What inspired this line of business? I studied Biochemistry and Molecular

for their academic qualifications. That is not to say the journey is easy. There will always be challenges. It is important to tell young people both the opportunities and the realities so they are prepared. Every worthwhile endeavour comes with difficulties. When my brother received a government appointment, my father asked me to submit my CV. I declined because I knew entrepreneurship was the life I wanted. Some people see government jobs as security, and that is fine. But I prefer doing what I love. Because I enjoy what I do, I have the energy to keep improving. I believe that if more young people pursue their passions while developing valuable skills, we can gradually change the narrative. What is the story behind your tea brand? We developed two blends—the Carrot Tea and the Uwais Special Tea. They are made from ingredients such as hibiscus, cardamom, ginger, mint leaves, green tea and other healthy herbs. We engaged an expert to develop the blends and organised tea-tasting sessions where we explained the health benefits of each product. People appreciated both the taste and the health benefits, and our customer base grew through recommendations. We produce and blend the teas ourselves.

•Maiwada Biology. However, I built this brand out of passion. I enjoy helping people look good, and I realised everyone wears clothes every day. As someone once said, you may skip three meals in a day, but you cannot walk around naked. Regardless of income, everyone needs clothing. I also saw fashion as my own contribution to societal development. We often talk about change, so I asked myself, What can I do to contribute? Government cannot do everything. The private sector must also help create jobs and reduce unemployment. What made you to abandon what you studied at the university? Passion. It was my passion that made it possible for me to persevere. Being an entrepreneur in Nigeria is not easy. Every day comes with uncertainty and rising operating costs. Even now, we are running on generators, and diesel is expensive. However, we have a vision and wanted to set an example for younger people. If we give up too easily, we send the message that there is no hope for the country. Encouragement also keeps me go-

ing. I remember travelling to Rivers State at a point when I had almost decided to quit the business. That same day, I met a client who encouraged me and supported the business. His patronage changed my perspective and convinced me I was on the right path. Sometimes even my brother tells me how much I have achieved. Comments like that motivate me. Of course, there are critics, but I do not dwell on criticism. You cannot move forward while constantly looking backward. I focus on reasons to keep pushing rather than reasons to quit. How would you encourage young Nigerians, especially graduates, to make good use of available opportunities? I would advise them to remain true to themselves. Many young people grow up believing that success only comes through certain white-collar jobs. That mindset needs to change. As a biochemist, I chose a different path in the informal sector because it aligns with my passion. I once visited someone who dismissed me because of what I do. Yet people far more accomplished respected my work. Experiences like that strengthened my resolve. I tell young people not to worry about what society thinks. Look around the world—skills have transformed lives. Many successful people are known more for their creativity and entrepreneurial abilities than

What challenges do you face with the tea business? One major challenge is balancing different categories of customers. Many of our highprofile clients travel frequently. Sometimes I call them expecting to conclude a transaction, only to hear they are abroad. That means you never know when business with them will resume. That is why we value everyday customers. If you ignore ordinary customers because you are chasing influential people, you may regret it later. Today’s ordinary customer could become tomorrow’s influential person. We therefore create products at different price points so everyone can afford something. I also believe every customer matters. A driver may introduce you to his employer. Someone you overlook today may become your biggest opportunity tomorrow. Do you plan to make your tea available in more locations? Yes, we do. We have ambitious expansion plans, but funding remains our biggest challenge. We have built the business through savings and determination. To expand successfully, we need additional investment and strategic partners. Expansion requires more people, more resources and a stronger distribution network. Recently, a client told me that if we could produce a particular design quickly, there was demand for it outside Abuja. Opportunities like that encourage us to think seriously about opening more outlets and expanding into new markets. Apart from fashion, do you intend to venture into other areas? Yes. I also own Atlas Unimatrix, a project management company. It handles different types of projects, including interior design, business setup and project coordination. We have started operations, but we are taking things gradually because funding is a challenge. My philosophy is to establish one business successfully before expanding into another. Fortunately, that expansion is already in our pipeline.

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MEMORABLE MILESTONES

Mudiaga Enajemo: 10 Milestones That Built a Nigerian Fashion Empire From humble beginnings in a one-room apartment in Lagos to building one of Africa’s most celebrated fashion brands, Mudiaga Enajemo’s entrepreneurial journey is defined by resilience, vision and determination. In this reflective piece, the founder of Mudi Africa recounts the 10 defining milestones that transformed his dream into a Nigerian fashion empire. Ferdinand Ekechukwu brings the excerpts:

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The day I was admitted into secondary school (the prestigious Government College Ughelli) 1979. I received the news of my admission letter with so much excitement and I remember vividly the very first day I resumed, my dad took me to school to appreciate the then principal late Chief Ogboduma. I sat in the front seat of my dad’s car with so much excitement as we drove into the prestigious Government College Ughelli

he has been mandated from Alausa to name the street where my head office is located after my brand name, Mudi Lane Street. 7. The day my first outlet outside Nigeria (in Accra Ghana) was jointly unveiled by the Nigerian ambassador to Ghana Musiliu Obanikoro and the American Ambassador to Ghana. My move to open an outlet in Accra Ghana which was the first propped up when I visited Ghana for a ceremony organised by Nigerian community in partnership with the embassy to welcome Musiliu Obanikoro as the Nigerian Ambassador to Ghana. As the event went on I was looking at the outfit those that came wore. A lot of them tried to look African. That was when I said to myself that there is a market for my outfits in Ghana.

2. The day I received the key to my first shop paid for by the legendary actor RMD. I started my career from a one room apartment in Ketu, Lagos and when it was time to get a showroom, I had to approach RMD to support me financially to enable me pay for a shop. He gave his younger brother Martins a cheque of N45,000 to cash and we both went to pay the landlord for two years. When the landlord asked for a name to be written on the receipt, I specifically told him to address the receipt to Richard Mofe Damijo.

8. The first time I shook hands with a foreign head of state (Ghanaian President, John Kuffour). His Excellency the president saw a Ghanaian client of mine who happens to be among my first clients in my design and he asked him to invite me over to Accra. My flight ticket and accommodation were taken care of by the office of the president. I was received by the foot of the plane (Aero contractor) and driven in a state house vehicle straight to the president house.

3. The very first time I travelled out of Nigeria to Paris. The trip was for a client’s birthday party and it was truly an exciting moment. I spent just two nights. My visa and flight ticket were organised by him. We went straight to the hotel and the party was held in the same hotel. 4. The day I bought my first car. A friend of mine was the one who propped me up to buy the car. He saw me at a bus stop as I was about to take a bus to Victoria Island to deliver clothes to a client. He felt it was time for me to get a car to ease my movement so the following day we both went to Cotonou Benin Republic to buy the car. My heart was overwhelmed with joy the very first day the car was delivered to me. 5. The day my head office complex was inaugurated by former Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Raji Fashola. I didn’t know Fashola before and I wanted the

Enajemo Governor of Delta State, then Emmanuel Uduaghan, to commission it but later changed my mind. The traditional ruler of my town, His Royal Highness Oharisi the third) and my late mum flew in from Delta to attend the event. That was the first time my late mum shook my hand to appreciate me for putting up the structure. 6. The day the street where my head office complex was named after my brand (Mudi Lane Anthony Lagos). I got a call from an official of the local government area that

9. The day King of Morocco visited my head office. The King of Morocco (King Mohammed VI) was in Lagos on a private visit after his State visit to Abuja. He was in Victoria Island and he needed to visit five places in Lagos and my head office was among the places he visited. The MUDI Africa fashion house and Fela Shrine in Ikeja were the only places on the mainland the king visited. I took him round my showroom and personal office and he was so impressed. His interpreter said to me that they have visited so many fashion houses in Africa and that mine is the finest. The king later invited me to Morocco with a business class ticket and accommodation paid for. I spent six nights (two days each in Novotel Hotel Casablanca, Rabat and Marrakesh). 10. The day I was given an award by Urhobo progress Union (UPU) to celebrate my achievements in the Nigerian fashion industry. The award by Urhobo progress Union (UPU) was very touching for me. Though I received numerous awards but the one UPU was very commendable and it has further energised me to keep doing things that touches lives.

Chief Willie Obiano at 71: A Legacy Time Cannot Erase Fred Chukwuelobe

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irthdays are not merely markers of age; they are occasions to reflect on a life of purpose, service and lasting impact. As His Excellency, Chief Willie Maduaburochukwu Obiano, celebrates his 71st birthday, it is only fitting to honour a leader whose contributions to the development of Anambra State continue to speak for themselves years after he left office. When he was sworn in as Governor of Anambra State on March 17, 2014, Obiano promised to consolidate the achievements of his predecessor while unlocking the immense entrepreneurial potential for which Ndi Anambra are renowned across the world. Over the next eight years, he pursued that vision with quiet resolve, delivering landmark infrastructure, strengthening public institutions and laying foundations that continue to support the state’s growth. Born on August 8, 1955, in Aguleri, Anambra State, Obiano’s journey reflects discipline, diligence and professional excellence. He graduated in Accountancy from the University of Lagos in 1979 and built a distinguished career in banking and the oil industry before entering public service. After a brief stint with First Bank of Nigeria, he joined Chevron Corporation, where he rose to become Chief Internal Auditor. In 1989, he was among the professionals who participated in the audit of the Texaco Refinery in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. In 1991, he joined Fidelity Bank and rose through the ranks from Deputy Manager and Head of Audit to Executive Director. The financial discipline, managerial competence and

corporate experience he acquired over the years became defining features of his administration. A Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (FCA) with an MBA in Marketing, Obiano was also honoured by Pope Francis with the papal knighthood of Knight Commander of the Order of St. Gregory the Great. As governor, Obiano was not given to political theatrics or the pursuit of headlines. He believed that leadership should be measured by results rather than rhetoric, and by institutions that outlive those who build them. Nothing illustrates that philosophy more than the Chinua Achebe International Airport, Umueri. Once dismissed by critics as an impossible dream, the airport today stands as one of the most significant economic assets in Anambra State, improving connectivity, attracting investment, promoting tourism and opening new opportunities for commerce. Another enduring achievement is the Anambra International Conference Centre in Awka. Today, it ranks among the finest public event facilities in the South-East, providing Anambra with a befitting venue for major conferences, exhibitions, business meetings and national events. His administration also recorded notable progress in road construction, healthcare, education, agriculture and security. Through sustained investment in security infrastructure and effective collaboration with security agencies, Anambra earned national recognition as one of Nigeria’s safest states during his tenure. That stable environment boosted business confidence and encouraged economic activity across the state.

No administration is without its critics, and Obiano’s was no exception. That is the reality of democratic governance. Yet, with the passage of time, political arguments give way to more objective assessment. Increasingly, leadership is judged not by the volume of applause or criticism it attracted, but by what remains after the politics has faded. In Obiano’s case, the evidence is visible. The Chinua Achebe International Airport, the Anambra International Conference Centre, extensive road networks and numerous other projects continue to serve millions of Ndi Anambra. They are enduring reminders of an administration that invested in the future rather than the moment. Time has a way of separating politics from performance. Campaign slogans disappear. Controversies fade. What endures are the institutions built, the infrastructure delivered and the lives positively impacted. By that measure, Chief Willie Obiano has secured a worthy place in the developmental history of Anambra State. As he marks his 71st birthday, we celebrate an accomplished banker, respected administrator and former governor whose legacy continues to inspire confidence in what purposeful leadership can achieve. Happy 71st Birthday, Your Excellency. May Almighty God grant you good health, peace of mind, renewed strength and many more fruitful years of service to Anambra State, Nigeria and humanity.

Obiano Equally noteworthy was his prudent management of public finances. Salaries and pensions were paid consistently, critical infrastructure projects were executed without crippling the state’s - Chukwuelobe, journalist, public affairs finances, and Anambra maintained a reputation for commentator, wrote from Lagos fiscal responsibility throughout his administration.

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Ferdinand Ekechukwu- 08035011394 Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

Peller, Jarvis Officially Walk Down the AisleToday Ferdinand Ekechukwu

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or many on social media, Nigerian TikTok stars, Habeeb Adelaja, popularly known as Peller, and Amadou Aminata, better known as Jarvis, had left widespread notion their relationship was just “content.” They met and started online as friends and collaborators, and every major high and low of their playful relationship was posted supposedly for entertainment. Their church wedding, which holds today, Peller announced shortly after the celebration last Saturday, would be limited to 100 guests. Critics frequently pointed out their young age differences and rapid rise to fame, assuming their partnership was purely transactional to boost views and brand deals. Despite widespread doubts that it was all for clout, the pair transitioned their virtual chemistry into reality by completing their traditional marriage rites and wedding ceremonies last Saturday. The lavish celebration in Lagos on August 1, 2026, followed their court wedding on July 29 after their traditional marriage formalities earlier in Benin City. From real-time live streams on Twitch and YouTube to public announcements of high-value real and “fake” gifts, the star-studded event trended as they celebrated their union in the presence of celebrity guests, friends, and well-wishers. Weeks before the ceremony, the #JP2026 hashtag deployed across social media channels, generating pre-event momentum. At the occasion, the arrivals

of celebrity guests appeared as deliberate viral hooks. Showmen Pretty Mike arriving with a staged medical team and Cubana Chief Priest fulfilling his multimillion-naira pledge turned every hour of the event into separate clips for social feeds. As photos and videos from the celebration began making the rounds, social media quickly turned its attention to the couple’s striking traditional wedding outfits. One of the biggest moments of the ceremony saw socialite King Ochacho announce that he was gifting the newlyweds brand new house worth N400 million in Abuja. He went on days later in a post to liken the amount to N400,000. Another moment came courtesy of a masked guest known as Oga9ja. He arrived, stylishly flanked by two female companions and a full entourage, moving through the crowd in an elaborate, regal-style outfit and a mask that gave away little. He presented Peller and Jarvis with a ceremonial cheque for N10 million during the reception. The streets had a field day outside the venue. Trust their retinue of co-content creators and influencers to live up and fully represent at the wedding, including Priscilla Ojo, Purple Speedy, Nons Miraj, Papaya Ex, Isbae U, Kamo State, Geh Geh, Jo Blaq, Diadem Adeola and Samuel Banks. Kidbaby, Tee Dollar, Alvin of Lagos, Tunde Perry, Smart BM, Momma Dessy, Rufai Bukky Ojo, Jojo of Lele, Cute Abiola, Seun Pizzle and T Dollar. The marriage ceremony marked another stage in a relationship that had unfolded publicly over several months. In June 2026, Peller proposed to Jarvis during a private beachside ceremony at La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Ghana.

Peller and Jarvis

CEO P&G Records, Peter Black Nominated for Award Ferdinand Ekechukwu

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uch as he avoids publicity like a plague, CEO of P&G Records, Peter Dunia, better known as Peter Black, has earned laudable recognitions in his community and society at large, due to his notable contributions in the area of youth empowerment and skill acquisition spanning music, talent management, sports, and social advocacy, through his vast network and resources. This humanitarian is not a typical media tiger. He believes that his intervention in the lives of the people was a contract between himself and God, which should not be celebrated in the public glare. However, his development impact has continued to generate attention. Little wonder he has earned nomination as Man of the Year for the eighth Leadership Excellence Awards scheduled to take place in November. Others nominated alongside in different category includes FiveStar Records owner, Emeka Okonkwo – E Money, and socialite, Chima Anyaso. Organised annually, the prestigious Igbere TV Leadership Excellence Awards (LEEX Awards) honor top leaders, change-makers, innovators in Nigeria and across Africa and recognises excel-

Peter Dunia lence in leadership, public service, innovation, and humanitarian work. Born on September 19, 1972, Peter Black hails from Ogbona in Etsako Central Local Government Area of Edo State. Peter Dunia’s story reads as an inspiring testament to selfless leadership and

transformative community impact. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, to Grace Dunia and the late John Agunu Dunia, Peter Dunia’s formative years set the stage for his lifelong commitment to service. Within the scope of his interest in music and entertainment, Peter Black supports primarily through creative industry investments, talent management, and youth empowerment as artist sponsor, supporting local recording spaces and up-and-coming musicians. In talent management, he established a recording studio and actively supports, mentors, and develops up-and-coming musical artists. He combines his backing of the entertainment and sports sectors having sponsored the Warri Wolves football club and building sports and community complexes. His work in the creative space ties into broader youth skill-acquisition and empowerment initiatives in Nigeria. In the arts, he integrates creative arts into programs, building recreational and talent-nurturing infrastructure in his Edo State. Peter Dunia stands out as a celebrated Nigerian philanthropist, businessman, and humanitarian for his remarkable contributions to community development, youth empowerment, and humanitarian initiatives. As the Chairman of the Oceanwave Group of Companies, Dunia’s work spans multiple sectors and has earned him widespread recognition, particularly for his enduring impact in the Niger Delta.

His background foretells his journey. “I lived a very good part of my life in Delta State, but I am originally from Auchi in Edo State, Ogbona, to be precise,” he recalls during a recent session. “My growing up was quite interesting in the sense that you have to go through life and what it brings. It wasn’t easy, but I am grateful to God Almighty for bringing me this far to succeed.” His lifestyle reflects and delves into his engagements. “I love good music, the reason I manage a recording studio and a few artistes, and yes, I love very good food. And I am a football fanatic, am all for Arsenal, and when you love something, you show it. The reason I single handedly sponsored Warri Wolves for two years was that everything was upon me throughout the period.” He said, “Life has taught me a lot, growing up with hardship and perseverance, then the only thing that just makes me happy is to be able to help in any way I can. I don’t like lazy people. In as much as I see you want to do something and I can be of help, then I will. Even God said he will bless the works of our hands, so do something, don’t just be in a place and complain.” Peter Dunia’s vision stands in sharp contrast to the self-interest often seen among the affluent. Rather than seek personal luxury, he invested in meaningful projects that uplift mankind. His philanthropy exemplifies leadership, ingenuity, and a genuine commitment to giving back, serving as an inspirational model for others.

Filmmaker, Joseph Okechukwu Returns with Historical Drama, ‘Properties of The Gods’ Starring Pete Edochie, Onyeka Onwenu Ferdinand Ekechukwu

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fter an eight-year hiatus from filmmaking, acclaimed Nollywood actor, writer, director and producer, Joseph Okechukwu also known as King Joe Okechukwu returns to the big screen with ‘Properties of the Gods’, a sweeping historical drama set for release on September 4, 2026, with Nile Entertainment distributing the film across cinemas nationwide. For many movie lovers, King Joe Okechukwu will always be remembered as Amadi in the beloved Nollywood classic, ‘Alice My First Lady’. After years away from the spotlight, he returns with what is undoubtedly one of the most ambitious films of his career; a powerful exploration of history, identity, love and the enduring weight of tradition. Four years in the making, ‘Properties of the Gods’ is a visually rich historical drama that delves into one of the most enduring conversations in Igbo history—the Osu caste system. Through compelling storytelling

and unforgettable performances, the film explores inherited identity, forbidden love, family loyalty and the lingering consequences of centuriesold traditions. The film boasts an exceptional ensemble cast led by Pete Edochie, Joseph Okechukwu, Enyinna Nwigwe, Maria Chike Benjamin, Zack Orji, Hilda Dokubo, Elvina Ibru, Linc Edochie, Jennifer Eliogu, Obi Okoli, Ofia Mbaka, and the late Onyeka Onwenu in one of her final screen performances. Speaking about the film, King Joe Okechukwu said: “This is more than a film to me—it is a story that needed to be told. ‘Properties of the Gods’challenges us to confront the parts of our history we often avoid discussing, while reminding us of our shared humanity. Returning to filmmaking after several years away has been both emotional and rewarding, and I am grateful to everyone who believed in this vision. My hope is that audiences will leave the cinema entertained, deeply moved and inspired to continue conversations that can help shape a more compassionate society.” With breathtaking cinematography, powerful performances and a story that bridges history with contemporary relevance, ‘Properties of the Gods’ is poised to become one of the year’s most significant Nigerian cinematic releases. ‘Properties

Pete Edochie, Joseph Okechukwu and Zack Orji of the Gods’ opens in cinemas across Nigeria on September 4, 2026, with international screenings in Ghana, the United Kingdom, and other territories to follow.

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T H I S D AY, Th e S ATURDAY, N e w S PA P e r • AUGUST 8, 2026

•Tourism •Arts&Culture

Charles Ajunwa

• 08064268968 • ajunwacharles@gmail.com

Abisoye Fagade: We’re Creating Structures to Standardise Tourism Industry Director General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism, Dr. Abisoye Fagade, says ongoing reforms are not targeting operators, instead they are aimed at professionalising Nigeria’s tourism and hospitality industry. Charles Ajunwa brings excerpts:

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fter your recent engagement with stakeholders in Abuja, the institute inaugurated a committee to develop a national framework for the recognition, collaboration and governance of professional bodies in the tourism, hospitality and travel sectors. Was it done to witch-hunt? No. There’s nothing anybody would do, as long as it’s regulation, they would think it’s witchhunting. Today, people still think that EFCC was set up to witch-hunt, and people also believe that the police is witch-hunting too. As long as you are executing the regulation, they will still feel it’s witch-hunting. You see, today our industry needs that structure to survive. Associations are not the ones that are being witch-hunted. We are creating institutes from those associations that can hold structures for tourism. We now said to ourselves, we have created this structure, stakeholders go and create what you think can work, as a fallout of the stakeholders’ engagement that we had. Let’s prune down. Do you know the funny thing? We realised that most of these associations that we are talking about are not even registered under Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). Some are registered as NGOs. Many are not even active on CAC portal. How long are we going to do this? I checked the 17 associations, only 6 or 7 are active. If we don’t get counted, we can’t justify the way we are being treated. We need to show the government what we are bringing to the table as a sector. What we are doing right now is a starting point. They called you to come and participate, you said no, you’re not participating. I should stop and wait till you are ready for me to work. I’m a federal government agency, I’m not an association. It’s them that should be playing catch-up, not me playing catch-up. Every sector in this country is driven by private sector. In aviation, government has no single

commercial airline. It’s driven by private sector, and the regulations there stand. Telecommunication in Nigeria is driven majorly by private sector. So don’t let anybody deceive you. There must be regulation that must be followed. When there is overlap between NTDA and NIHOTOUR, we can collaborate. We have agreed to collaborate. So what we have done with this committee is for them to establish a structure that can work, that will pay both the association and the agency. We need to take out all the quacks in our industry. The only reason why we are not having people coming back is because of our poor services. We have to elevate the standard of tourism in Nigeria. Those standards mean that every hotel or institution must train their staff twice a year. They must send their staff for training. Who is overlooking those things? How can you know if somebody is not well-trained if he is not on your register? How can you report bad service or poor service if it’s not on your register? Then how do you create a clear career path for our industry when we are not registered? People cannot wake up in the morning and say, I want to be a bartender. Most of the time, it’s always happening because they don’t have a job and they will serve for a long time. So, we are creating a structure that will help the industry scale up. Right now, we have allowed the worst of us to rule over the best of us in tourism. That cannot continue. We need to create that structure for us to be able to standardise the industry. One year is almost gone, what have we done? They think they can hold the whole sector to ransom. It’s not going to happen under my leadership. Don’t you think there’s need for dialogue to resolve these differences? Well, it’s as simple as we’ll keep doing what we need to do. I have a job to do, and I have a mandate to deliver. If you are open to engagement, we’ll engage you. I can tell you that nobody has

Fagade written to me. I’ve been seeing everybody that wants to see me and I’ve been making clarifications. We have gone beyond the stage of us going cap in hand to create a structure. At the point we are now, it is important for all of us to come together and rub minds. It’s my responsibility as Director General to make sure that the NIHOTOUR Act is implemented. For example, a director in my office who has served for 26 years wrote a letter and somebody said, ‘why is your DG not even signing it?’ Before you can rise to the level of director, you must have put in 26 years of your life. But if they see a letter from FRS state director, they start to shake. Because we don’t respect the sector that we are working in, there can never be respect for all of us. What am saying in essence is, there’s always need to dialogue. We’ll keep talking and we’ll keep acting. NIHOTOUR will not stop negotiating. Also, NIHOTOUR will not stop acting. We have to act on our Act and we need to implement it. Some of us have not even read this Act, all they are after is hear-say. They

should read the Act and see how they can use it to better their businesses and create structures that work. So, we are creating structure that will create more opportunity to invest in tourism. You’re almost two years in office, can you tell us your achievements? Well, my number one achievement, is that tourism now has a register. Whether we have 76 people on it or 35 people on it, the fact remains that we have a register and every other person that is not on that register is quack. What is the implication of the register? The implication of the register is that the Act mandated us to keep register of everybody in that sector after two years of this Act and my predecessor worked on it. I came in and met the Act. Almost one year, four months after, we now have a register. Second, NIHOTOUR now has taken its rightful place in the industry. Before now, you get a fellowship from some associations, we now have national honour.

Lagos Invests in Boys’ Agboola Launches Culinary Training ‘Tourism as Capital’ Charles Ajunwa

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overnor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES+ Agenda targeting young talents with practical skills beyond the classroom resonated on Monday at the prize-giving ceremony of the 2026 Lagos Boy Child Initiative cooking competition organised by the Lagos First Lady, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu. The competition held at the Lagos Marriott Hotel, Ikeja, according to Mrs. Sanwo-Olu, was designed to prepare young boys for practical skills that will enhance their cooking careers. She said the state’s expanding tourism economy would require skilled workers to serve hotels, restaurants, resorts, event centres, cruise operations and international hospitality brands. “Our State is steadily positioning itself as Africa’s preferred destination for tourism, hospitality, entertainment, culture and creative enterprise. As this vision unfolds, the demand for skilled professionals across the hospitality industry will continue to grow,” she added. Sanwo-Olu, who challenged gender stereotypes, stressed that teaching boys how to cook not only builds responsibility, but it makes them to be compassionate and better prepared for life. According to her, “caring for the home should

never be viewed as the exclusive responsibility of women. When our boys learn to cook, they are not becoming less masculine; they are becoming more responsible, more compassionate and better prepared for life.” “There is something truly remarkable about a young boy who discovers that his hands can do more than write examinations or operate digital devices. They can also prepare meals, create opportunities, build careers and bring joy to others,” she added. According to her, “Some of the young boys seated here today could become tomorrow’s celebrated chefs, hospitality managers, food entrepreneurs, culinary educators or restaurant brands. We must therefore begin to prepare them now.” “Our objective was simple but profound: to expose our boys to culinary skills, ignite their passion for the hospitality industry and help them appreciate that cooking is not merely a domestic activity but a respected profession capable of creating wealth, employment and global opportunities. Today, I am delighted that this vision is gradually becoming a reality,” she said. The First Lady of Lagos State also announced a strategic partnership between the Lagos Boy Child Initiative (LBCI) and the Akwaaba African Travel Market, a collaboration that will provide winners of the LBCI Boys Cooking Competition with an opportunity to showcase their culinary talents on one of Africa’s biggest tourism and hospitality platforms.

Light Nwobodo

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ourism strategist and policy advisor, Elizabeth Agboola, has announced the pre-order launch of her debut ebook, ‘Tourism as Capital: 52 Weeks That Shaped a New Continental Doctrine’, a collection of 52 essays challenging conventional thinking about tourism’s role in Africa’s economic future. The publication brings together a year of insights originally shared through her weekly ‘Office Hours with TEA series’. Rather than viewing tourism as a leisure industry, the book presents tourism as an integrated economic system capable of driving investment, trade, diplomacy, workforce development, aviation, and regional integration. The ebook examines themes including destination economies, tourism diplomacy, aviation, halal tourism, workforce development, investment, Africa–Caribbean cooperation, and the role of tourism in national development.

According to her, “Tourism has long been discussed as entertainment,” adding, “This book argues that tourism should instead be recognised as capital, an economic asset capable of creating jobs, attracting investment, strengthening international partnerships, and transforming destinations.” Agboola, Founder of NTT Global Destinations, has worked across Africa, the Caribbean, and the emerging halal economy, advancing destination development through tourism diplomacy, market access, and strategic partnerships. She led the first direct NigeriaCaribbean charter flight to Jamaica and currently serves as Strategic Partner (Market Access and Tourism Diplomacy) to the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Strategic Partner (International Relations and Strategic Engagement) to the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), and Halal Tourism Lead on the Nigeria Halal Economy Strategy Implementation Committee Secretariat (NHESICS). The pre-order launch comes ahead of the conclusion of the Office Hours with TEA series, which will publish its final edition on 1 September 2026.

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FEATURES

How Access Bank is Nurturing Africa’s Next Generation of Innovators From a local initiative to one of Africa’s biggest STEM learning platforms, STEM Africa Fest has inspired nearly 30,000 young people, driven by Access Bank’s six-year commitment to science and technology education, writes Sunday Ehigiator

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OnabrightSaturdaymorning at Landmark Event Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos, the usual sounds of children’s laughter mixed with the whirring of drones, the buzz of 3D printers and animated conversations about artificial intelligence filled the ears. Instead of spending the long school holiday indoors glued to television screens or mobile phones, more than 3,500 children gathered to immerse themselves in a world where science was exciting, technology was hands-on, engineering was creative, and mathematics became an adventure rather than a classroom obligation. Across the expansive exhibition halls, children programmed robots, experimented with chemistry, built paper engineering models, flew drones, designed digital animations using artificial intelligence and interacted with more than 50 exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge technologies. It was the sixth edition of STEM Africa Fest, now regarded as one of Africa’s largest STEM education festivals for children. Yet beyond the colourful exhibitions and excitement lay a deeper story; not just about education, but about what sustained corporate investment can achieve when it is driven by purpose rather than publicity. That story begins with Access Bank. Partnership with Belief Long before the festival became an annual attraction drawing thousands of participants, before it expanded across Africa and before STEM education became fashionable among many organisations, Access Bank made an early decision to support an idea whose impact had not yet been proven. Six years later, the results speak loudly. The bank has remained the headline sponsor throughout the festival’s journey, helping transform what began as a Nigerian initiative into a continental platform reaching children in Ghana, Rwanda, Kenya, Zambia, Sierra Leone, The Gambia and several Nigerian states. For co-Convener of the event, Titi Adewusi, Access Bank’s role extends far beyond financial sponsorship. “They were the first people that believed in us. When it was just a dream that nobody was doing, we went around, and nobody understood. They took a chance on us from the very first year.” That early confidence became the foundation

upon which the festival expanded. According to Adewusi, it was Access Bank that encouraged the organisers to think beyond Nigeria. “When we went to Ghana, it was because Access was in Ghana and they said, ‘Come, we’ll back you up.’ When we went to Gambia, Sierra Leone, Zambia and Kenya, they stood with us.” Even more importantly, she said, the bank challenged them to dream beyond what they initially imagined possible. “They’ve been a partner everybody prays for. They’re the kind of partner that puts their money there and also helps you dream bigger. Investing in Tomorrow Corporate sustainability has evolved significantly over the past decade. Increasingly, companies are recognising that creating lasting value requires investing not only in communities but also in future generations. For Access Bank, STEM Africa Fest fits squarely within that philosophy. Speaking during the event, Programme Manager, Sustainability atAccess Holdings, Ikechukwu Iheagwam, explained why the institution has remained committed to the initiative. “In Access, we believe in the future, and the future is these children. In some years to come, these children will be the ones to shape the world.” He noted that supporting STEM education aligns directly with the bank’s sustainability agenda, particularly its focus on education and technology. Perhaps the most striking aspect ofAccess Bank’s involvement is its consistency. Many corporate partnerships last only a year or two before priorities change. Access Bank has remained involved throughout all six editions. That consistency has given organisers confidence to plan long-term, expand geographically and continually improve programme quality. From Lagos to Abuja and Ilorin, and from Nigeria to multiple African countries, the bank’s backing has provided the stability necessary for sustainable growth. Another co-Founder, Jadesola Adediji, believes that commitment made all the difference. “They probably didn’t fully understand what we were trying to do at the beginning, but irrespective, they put a bet on us. Year after year, Access Bank keeps showing up for us. If it wasn’t for them, especially when we were starting from ground zero, it would have been much harder.”

Jadesola Adediji (left) and Titi Adewusi Learning by Doing One reason STEM Africa Fest continues attracting thousands is its emphasis on experiential learning. Unlike traditional classroom settings where students often memorise theories, the festival encourages children to touch, build, experiment and create. Adewusi described the festival as “a STEM wonderland. It has to be engaging. It has to be immersive. The children need to touch and feel. They don’t just hear about technology. They see it, and they do it; that philosophy is evident everywhere. Instead of reading about drones, children fly them. Instead of watching videos about robotics, they build robots. Instead of merely hearing about AI, they generate animations using artificial intelligence tools. Instead of learning chemistry from textbooks, they conduct real experiments. AI takes centre stage. This year’s edition reflected one unmistakable reality. Artificial intelligence has arrived. Masterclasses on AI attracted packed audiences as children learned how AI tools generate videos, solve problems and stimulate creativity. For many participants, it was their first practical exposure to the technology reshaping industries worldwide. Astudent, Jason Lawal from Court Hill College, admitted he arrived simply hoping to broaden his knowledge. He left inspired. “I learned about artificial intelligence,” he said. “We worked in groups to create AI animations. It was really exciting.” Jason believes AI education should become mainstream. “AI is what’s reigning now. So students really need to learn it.”

Tinubu Welcomes Nigeria’s Return to World Energy Council, Hails Isa, Wunti Says nation’s entry to shape discourse on energy security Deji Elumoye and Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

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resident Bola Tinubu yesterday welcomed Nigeria’s formal admission as the newest National Member Committee of the World Energy Council (WEC), describing the development as a vote of confidence in the country’s energy reforms and its leadership role in Africa. The president, in a statement issued yesterday by his SpecialAdviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said Nigeria’s return to the over a century-old global energy network would provide the country with a stronger platform to influence international discussions on energy security, equity and sustainability. Nigeria’s admission places it within the WEC network of more than 100 countries, with the federal government expected to leverage the platform to deepen policy dialogue, investment mobilisation and innovation across the energy sector.

Agbo

•Isa

•Wunti

Tinubu also congratulated the inaugural leadership of WEC Nigeria, particularly the Chairman, Mr. Abdulrazaq Isa, and the Chief Executive Officer, Mr Bala Wunti, as well as

other members of the inaugural board drawn from different segments of the energy industry. The board comprises representatives from across the energy value chain, regulatory institu-

A Festival for Everyone One notable aspect of STEM Africa Fest is its commitment to inclusion. While many educational programmes inadvertently cater mainly to privileged schools, STEM Africa Fest deliberately creates opportunities for children from public and low-income schools. Sponsors, including Access Bank, purchase tickets enabling disadvantaged students to attend free of charge. According to Adewusi, this approach reflects the festival’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goal Four: Quality Education for All. “We don’t want it to become elitist. We want children of every background to experience quality STEM education.”Each year, between 60 and 100 schools participate. That diversity enriches the learning environment while ensuring access is not determined solely by economic status. STEM Africa Fest’s greatest achievement lies beyond attendance figures. It has catalysed a growing STEM education movement across Africa. Schools have established STEM clubs after attending. Educators have replicated similar festivals in their own states. Organisers from other African countries now seek guidance on creating comparable programmes. For educators, the impact becomes visible long after the festival ends. Tolulope Aleogena, Director of Briarcrest School, Ikeja, attended for the third consecutive year. This year, she brought students. “It’s been really good,” she said. “The children experience things they ordinarily wouldn’t in school.” She observed that each edition introduces emerging technologies. “Every year you see something new. It tells the children that technology is constantly evolving.”

tions, industry associations, finance, academia and the Future Energy Leaders community. Tinubu described Isa as a distinguished patriot and industrialist whose investments in indigenous refining and industrial energy had opened new opportunities for Nigerian enterprise. He similarly described Wunti as one of the country’s leading energy strategists and reform champions, noting that his more than three decades of service had been characterised by integrity, strategic vision and reforms that contributed to strengthening national revenues and restoring investor confidence in the energy sector. Tinubu said the combination of experienced industry leaders, regulators, financial experts and young professionals on the WEC Nigeria board would provide the balance and credibility required for the organisation to operate as an effective platform for national energy dialogue. According to him, Nigeria’s participation in the WEC would go beyond membership, with the country expected to use the platform to ensure that the priorities and perspectives of Africa are reflected in global energy policy decisions. “Nigeria has joined the World Energy Council to lead, not just participate, to ensure Africa’s voice shapes global energy decisions,” the president said. The President also affirmed the federal government’s support for WEC Nigeria as a neutral and technology-agnostic platform for policy dialogue, investment mobilisation and innovation.

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PERSPECTIVE

Musa Aliyu and the Reinvention Of ICPC iSalihuAbdul

institutional integrity assessments, strengthened Anti-Corruption and Transparency Units across government agencies, promoted ethics compliance, invested in specialised officer training and continued advocating legislative reforms such as the Whistleblower Protection Bill and the Unexplained Wealth Bill. This reflects a broader understanding that corruption cannot be defeated through arrests alone. Sustainable success depends on making corruption more difficult to commit in the first place. The Commission’s operational record also suggests greater activity. Within its first year under the current leadership, the ICPC reported recoveries running into tens of billions of naira, tracked approximately 1,500 constituency and executive projects worth about 610 billion, processed hundreds of petitions, secured convictions, prevented the diversion of billions of naira in public funds and intensified oversight across Ministries, Departments and Agencies. While statistics do not tell the whole story, they indicate an institution attempting to become more visible through measurable outcomes rather than rhetoric.

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or much of its existence, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has lived in the shadows of Nigeria’s anticorruption architecture. While the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) often dominated public attention through high-profile arrests, dramatic raids and headline-grabbing prosecutions, the ICPC was frequently perceived as the quieter institution—competent perhaps, but seldom at the centre of the national conversation. That perception appears to be changing. Since assuming office as Chairman in October 2023, Dr Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, has quietly embarked on what many observers describe as an institutional reset. His leadership has been characterised less by theatrical enforcement than by deliberate efforts to reposition the Commission around professionalism, prevention, institutional reform and the rule of law. Whether this transformation proves enduring remains to be seen. Yet even critics acknowledge that the ICPC today attracts considerably more public attention than it did only a few years ago. That renewed visibility, however, comes with its own burden.

Leadership Under Pressure

The real measure of institutional leadership, however, often emerges during politically sensitive moments. That test confronted the Commission following the discovery of the fictitious Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC)—an elaborate fraud that embarrassed government and raised troubling questions about institutional vulnerabilities. President Bola Tinubu directed the ICPC to investigate the matter. The assignment goes beyond exposing a criminal syndicate. It requires establishing how forged government documents, fake appointments and fraudulent representations acquired apparent legitimacy, while identifying every individual or institution that enabled the deception. The outcome will inevitably influence public confidence in the Commission’s independence and investigative capacity.

The Politics of Fighting Corruption

No anti-corruption agency anywhere in the world escapes accusations of bias. In Nigeria, where corruption investigations frequently involve politicians, influential business figures and senior public officials, almost every major investigation is interpreted through political, ethnic or regional lenses. The ICPC has not been immune. Recent investigations involving politically exposed persons have generated allegations in some quarters that the Commission is being deployed selectively or serving partisan interests. Such criticisms are neither new nor unique to the present leadership. Virtually every anti-corruption agency in Nigeria has, at different periods, faced similar accusations. The more relevant question is therefore not whether allegations exist, but whether the institution demonstrates consistency, due process and adherence to the law irrespective of whose interests are affected. That is ultimately where credibility is earned—or lost.

A Lawyer’s Approach

Those familiar with Aliyu’s professional background argue that his style differs from many of Nigeria’s better-known anticorruption personalities. Unlike some predecessors whose public profiles were built around aggressive enforcement, Aliyu’s instincts appear rooted in legal process. A former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Jigawa State, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and an academic, he has consistently projected the fight

Building Institutions, Not Personalities Aliyu against corruption as a legal and institutional responsibility rather than a media contest. Perhaps nothing illustrates this philosophy more than his willingness to personally appear in court to prosecute cases—an uncommon practice for the head of a federal anti-corruption agency. Supporters regard this not as symbolism but as a statement that leadership begins with personal accountability.

Beyond Arrests

What increasingly distinguishes the ICPC under Aliyu is its growing emphasis on prevention. The Commission has expanded

Nigeria Cannot Afford Another Leadership Gamble

Benson Ezem

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s another election season approaches, Nigerians stand at a defining moment in our nation’s history. The decisions we make at the ballot box will either deepen our national challenges or set us firmly on the path of renewal and sustainable development. For too long, public office has been viewed by some as an avenue for personal enrichment rather than an opportunity for public service.

Corrupt leadership

The insatiable appetite for wealth has become one of the greatest impediments to Nigeria’s progress. Some public officials have amassed fortunes that could sustain several generations, while millions of Nigerians struggle daily to access quality education, healthcare, electricity, good roads, and employment. This is not merely corruption; it is the gluttony of power. The consequences are visible everywhere. Hospitals and schools lack essential equipment while our roads remain death traps. Industries struggle under poor infrastructure. Youth unemployment has reached alarming levels, while insecurity continues to threaten lives and livelihoods.

Crime and inequality

Although criminality can never be justified, prolonged economic hardship, inequality, unemployment, and weakened institutions create conditions that criminal elements readily exploit. Banditry, kidnapping, cybercrime, and

other forms of organised crime flourish because governance has failed to deliver opportunities. History has repeatedly demonstrated that nations do not fail because they lack resources, but because they lack accountable leadership and strong institutions. Nigeria has earned billions from its abundant natural resources over the decades, yet much of the expected development has remained unrealised because transparency, accountability, and prudent management have too often been sacrificed for personal gain. The World Bank, Transparency International, and numerous development institutions have consistently identified corruption and weak governance as major barriers to economic growth, poverty reduction, and sustainable national development. Every naira diverted from public service is a school not built, a hospital not equipped, a road not completed, or a young person denied an opportunity to succeed.

All eyes on INEC:

This reality places an enormous responsibility on every Nigerian voter, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). As campaigns intensify ahead of the elections so much is expected from INEC. We must move beyond empty promises, political slogans, ethnic loyalties, religious sentiments, and vote buying. The Osun Gubernatorial election is a test case for INEC. Every candidate deserves serious scrutiny in terms of leadership experience, and institutional management capability. Experience, character, and competence matter. This is one reason why many commentators have pointed

to the performance of Dr. Alex Otti, the Governor of Abia State, as an example of how executive preparation can shape governance. He spent decades building a successful career in the private sector, where strategic planning, accountability, financial discipline, and measurable performance are indispensable. Supporters argue that this background has influenced an intentional approach to governance in Abia State, demonstrating that effective leadership is often rooted in preparation rather than improvisation. The reforms Nigeria needs are clear: stronger anti-corruption institutions, transparent public finance institutions, an independent judiciary, merit-based appointments, protection for whistle-blowers, improved civic education, and greater citizen participation in governance.

Righteousness exalts a nation

Beyond domestic operations, Aliyu has also strengthened Nigeria’s profile within international anti-corruption networks, including serving as Chairperson of the African Asset Recovery Practitioners’ Forum and helping secure Nigeria’s continued role within the GlobE Network of anti-corruption authorities. Yet perhaps the more important legacy he appears to be pursuing is institutional rather than personal. Those who have observed his tenure closely often describe him not as a flamboyant reformer but as a quiet institutional reformer—someone seemingly more interested in strengthening systems than cultivating celebrity. That distinction matters. Nigeria’s anti-corruption institutions have often become identified with the personalities leading them. History suggests that when institutions become personality-driven, their momentum sometimes

countries come to mind at this point. What can we learn from them to enhance our governance philosophy? Lee Kuan Yew took Singapore to a New World just like China’s Chairman Mao Zedong, and Deng Xiaoping. Park Chuang-hee of South Korea, and Shigeru Yoshida of Japan led their countries into economic prosperity. Where do our leaders fit into this category of nation builders? Where is Nigeria’s Lee Kuan Yew, our Chairman Mao, etc?

At what point was the Nigerian vision impaired, and why is it taking so long to have it repaired?

Chinua Achebe had proposed in one of his seminal works that Nigeria’s problem could be deployed on corrupt, dishonest leadership. Does that mean the leaders being vilified came from outer space and not in the ranks of the grassroots and the middle class? The problem with us is also partly one of a national psyche where the average Nigerian believes he can only benefit from a corrupt system. Accountability, strong and transparent institutions, not avarice and nepotism, should be the goal for a strong economically driven prosperous nation.

The Bible reminds us that “righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people, Proverbs 14:34.” And, “Whoever is greedy for unjust gain troubles his own household, but he who hates bribes will live, Proverbs 15:27.” As we approach another election, let us remember that the ballot is more than a political instrument- it is a moral responsibility. President Bola Ahmed Nigeria does not simply need new leaders; Nigeria needs prepared, principled, Tinubu: As a democrat who fought from visionary leaders and citizens who will refuse to mortgage the future of generations the trenches for the restoration of yet unborn for the temporary gains of democracy, so much is expected from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. today. As Governor of Lagos State, he left Japan, China, Singapore and an eloquent testimony of what he can achieve as President. The men South Korea: The models of the above-mentioned he positioned in government did not disappoint.

Beyond these projections however, we expect more dividends of democracy from Mr. President going forward especially with the grassroots. The President’s bold reforms such as the subsidy removal, exchange rate stabilisation, and a host of other broad system-wide government and Central Bank of Nigeria macro-economic policies, all the national economic aggregates such as inflation, government debts home and abroad with the foreign exchange reserves, and fiscal revenues that have been endorsed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), must be balanced by bold grassroot and micro-economic policies-a strong purchasing power parity of household budgets in different baskets of currency, and the operating costs of small and big businesses, that is the ability of industries to remain in business plus a plugging of the loop holes in budgetary management. Who knows, the President may pull the plug for efficient management of the economy, and win the Lee Kuan Yew medal! Just thinking aloud.

Alex Otti

My governor Alex Otti has become endeared to the people of Abia State for a track record of good governance. He remains a recurring decimal of positive delivery, and with the members of the Abia Classic Golf and Country Club with me as chairman of the Board of Trustees, we doff our hats for him and wish him more energy in the delivery of the dividends of democracy as well as an easy ride to a second term in 2027. Read full article online www.thisdaylive.com

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PERSPECTIVE

Aviation Height Clearance: Why Nigeria Must Preserve Distinction Between Regulation, Service Provision Unde Ekpen Nogah

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he recent public hearing of the House of Representatives Committee on Aviation on the proposed amendment of the statutory revenue-sharing formula for aviation agencies has generated significant interest within Nigeria’s aviation industry. Much of the public attention has understandably focused on the request by the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) for an increase in its share of the existing five per cent Ticket, Charter and Cargo Sales Charge (TCSC). Equally noteworthy, however, was the Agency’s proposal that obstacle evaluation services and Aviation Height Clearance (AHC) should be recognised as technical services rendered by NAMA, with 90 per cent of the associated fees remitted to the Agency and only 10 per cent retained by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). At first glance, the proposal may appear logical. NAMA designs instrument flight procedures, carries out WGS-84 aeronautical surveys, maintains navigation infrastructure and conducts technical obstacle assessments in support of air navigation. These are highly specialised responsibilities requiring significant expertise and investment. No objective observer would dispute the importance of these functions. Indeed, Nigeria cannot achieve safe, orderly and efficient air navigation without a technically competent and adequately funded Air Navigation Service Provider. However, the issue before the National Assembly is not simply one of institutional funding. It is one of aviation safety governance. Before any decision is taken regarding Aviation Height Clearance, it is necessary to understand exactly what Aviation Height Clearance represents within the global aviation safety system.

More Than a Permit

To many Nigerians, Aviation Height Clearance is simply the document issued before a telecommunications mast, high-rise building, transmission tower or other tall structure is erected. That perception is understandable. But it is incomplete. Aviation Height Clearance is one of the State’s most important preventive aviation safety mechanisms. Its objective is to ensure that no structure is constructed in a manner that endangers aircraft operations or compromises the safe use of Nigerian airspace. Contrary to popular belief, the issuance of the clearance is only the final stage of a comprehensive regulatory process. Long before an approval is granted, aviation safety inspectors examine the proposed development against Obstacle Limitation Surfaces (OLS), verify geographical coordinates and elevations, review technical data, conduct aeronautical studies where necessary, assess potential operational impacts, consult relevant stakeholders and carry out site inspections. Even after approval has been granted, the responsibility continues. The regulator monitors compliance, conducts post-construction inspections and enforces corrective measures where violations occur. These are not commercial services. They are statutory regulatory oversight responsibilities performed in the interest of public safety.

What the Law Provides

Fortunately, this matter is not left to interpretation. The Civil Aviation Act, 2022 clearly assigns the responsibility for regulating structures capable of constituting hazards to air navigation to the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority. The Authority is empowered to evaluate proposed structures, determine whether they constitute hazards, issue Aviation Height Clearances, undertake continuing surveillance and enforce compliance with aviation safety requirements. The same legal framework recognises Aviation Height Clearance fees as statutory revenues collected to recover the cost of performing these regulatory functions. That distinction is extremely important. Aviation Height Clearance fees are not payment for operational services. They are regulatory cost-recovery charges designed to ensure that the State safety regulator possesses the financial capacity to discharge its statutory mandate independently and effectively.

International Practice Leaves Little Room for Doubt

Nigeria is a contracting Oritsemeyiwa state to the Convention on International Civil Aviation. As ICAO deliberately separates the provider of operational such, the country is expected to implement ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices. ICAO Annex 14 requires every services from the authority responsible for regulating those services. That separation protects regulatory independence and State to establish effective systems for obstacle control strengthens aviation safety. around aerodromes. ICAO Doc 9137 (Airport Services Manual, Part 6 – Control of Obstacles), the principal international guidance Appreciating NAMA’s Contribution None of this diminishes the invaluable role of NAMA. Far on obstacle management, identifies obstacle control as a responsibility of the competent aviation authority. Likewise, from it. NAMA remains the backbone of Nigeria’s air navigation system. Its responsibility for Air Traffic Services, ComICAO’s Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme munications, Navigation and Surveillance (CNS), Aeronautical (USOAP-CMA) evaluates a State’s implementation of Information Services (AIS), instrument flight procedure obstacle control, Obstacle Limitation Surfaces, land-use design and calibration is indispensable to the safe movement coordination, obstacle marking and lighting, guidance of aircraft throughout Nigerian airspace. Indeed, during the to industry and continuing surveillance against the Civil design and validation of instrument flight procedures, NAMA Aviation Authority. conducts technical obstacle assessments to ensure the protecThese responsibilities form part of the State’s Safety tion of aircraft flight paths. These activities are essential. Oversight System. They are not evaluated against the Air Navigation Service Provider. This distinction exists for a Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com reason.

Jim Nwobodo: How Not to Dishonour a Sage Sunny Igboanugo

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et me confess my bias from the outset. Jim Ifeanyichukwu Nwobodo, former Governor of old Anambra State, former Minister of Sports and Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, who once represented Enugu East in the National Assembly, is more than a celebutante icon. He is an institution. Whichever way you turn the mirror – business – sports – politics, and even lifestyle, his persona reflects a certain elevated position beyond the ordinary – one several notches above his peers – a phenomenon whose streak of success, betrays some sort of heavenly interventions. As a highly successful businessman and socialite, Nwobodo’s appointment as Chairman of, then Rangers of Enugu, now Rangers International, begot the glorious era of the club, leading to it winning the African Cup of Winners title in 1977 the first time the trophy came to Nigeria. Recall how he also led Nigeria to winning the football Olympic Gold medal, at the Atlanta, Gorgia meet, as Minister of Sports, in 1996, another gold medal through Chioma Ajunwa in long jump, one silver and three bronze medals – a feat considered today as one the greatest outings of Nigeria in global sports. Politically, Nwobodo’s legacy as governor, between 1979 and 1983 is still visible in the three states that comprise the old Anambra State he oversaw – Enugu, Anambra and Ebonyi. More intriguingly, Nwobodo, remains one of the two surviving members of the class of ’99 governors of the second republic. All other the 19 members outside him and Kashim Ibrahim, former Governor of Niger State, have

Nwobodo

gone to the great beyond. That in itself is demonstrable evidence of God’s hand in his affairs. So, all round, the story of this elder statesman, who celebrated his 86th birthday in May this year, is one told superlatives than ordinary. As a privileged insider,

I watched the entire streets of Enugu blocked by human traffic, just by his appearance alone. I watched eager residence screaming the ear-splitting rendition – Jiiiim! No other politician in the state, living or dead as at today, possesses such magic, none so overwhelming. So, when I saw a screaming headline – As Demolition of Properties Tears Nwobodo, Wife, Kinsmen Apart, Polarises Enugu Community - I quickly rushed to read the details, only to discover that it was about a dispute over a piece of property in an estate belonging to the elder statesman. Thereafter, I quickly put a call through to him and discovered a man in great pain. It was about a row between himself and one Basil Ogbuanu, an indigene of the state, over a piece of land in an estate owned by the former governor at Independence Layout, a choice ambience Enugu metropolis. Both parties, I hear are already in court over the matter. Essentially, Ogbuanu, said to be a businessman in Lagos, from what I could glean from the report, is accusing Nwobodo of demolishing a property he was developing in the estate, sold to him by the former governor, despite being in possession of all the relevant documents empowering him to build on the land. The row, which got to a head early this year, following the demolition saga, saw Ogbuanu, in furtherance of his push for a pound of flesh, upping the ante in June this year with a letter fired to the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), alleging ethical misconduct against the Senator’s wife, Patricia, herself a senior lawyer. Now, anyone familiar with the Senator, knows of his undiluted affection for the wife. Ogbuanu, has thus touched a sore nerve in the heart of the Senator. So, it was not surprising that he was full of lamentations over the development. His anguish is even more because he claimed he was warned about the person is now dragging him and his precious wife.

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BOOK REVIEW

Encountering the Holy Spirit with Objective Knowledge T he doctrine of the Holy Spirit remains one of the most discussed and at the same time, one of the most misunderstood areas of Christian theology. In recent decades, the rapid growth of Pentecostalism, Charismatic Renewal, prophetic ministries, healing ministries and independent churches across Africa has renewed interest in the gifts and operations of the Holy Spirit. Unfortunately, this renewed interest has also produced numerous doctrinal distortions, emotional excesses, commercialisation of spiritual gifts and conflicting interpretations of Scripture. It is within this theological and pastoral context that Rev. Fr. Innocent Onyeogoh presents “Encountering the Holy Spirit with Objective Knowledge: A Theological Handbook for Avoiding the Misconceptions about the Holy Spirit in Contemporary Time.” The book is a pastoral handbook intended to distinguish authentic Christian teaching from contemporary misconceptions surrounding the Holy Spirit. The author argues that ignorance of sound theology is largely responsible for the abuse of spiritual gifts and the proliferation of false teachings. Throughout the book, he consistently maintains that objective theological knowledge, grounded in Sacred Scripture, Sacred Tradition, the Magisterium of the Catholic Church and the writings of renowned theologians, remains the surest antidote to doctrinal error. The work bears both the Nihil Obstat by Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Idahosa Amadasu and Imprimatur by Most Rev. Book Author: Rev. Fr. Onyeogoh Dr. Michael O. Elue respectively, indicating ecclesiastical where the author explains that the book exposes approval for publication, which immediately situates the misconceptions through Scripture, Church doctrine, book firmly within the Catholic theological tradition. scholarly opinion, and lived Christian experience. This was further emphasised in the Foreword Understanding the Title written by Rev. Fr. Romanus M. C. Anayeokwu. The title itself is one of the strengths of the book. The phrase “Encountering the Holy Spirit” suggests Organisation of the Book an experiential relationship with God rather than mere After the Preface, Forward and General Introducintellectual speculation. However, the addition of “with tion, the work is divided into four major chapters: Objective Knowledge” introduces an important balance. 1. Historical Development of the Doctrine of His subtitle, “A Theological Handbook for Avoiding the the Holy Spirit Misconceptions about the Holy Spirit in Contemporary 2. Misconception of Some Gifts of the Holy Spirit Time,” clearly reveals the purpose of the work. 3. Misconceptions of the Holy Spirit 4. Evaluation and Conclusion Unlike many books that simply celebrate charismatic Chapter One has 28 sub-themes; Chapter Two is experiences, this work seeks to evaluate them critically divided into 10 sub-themes, Chapter Three into 11, through theological reflection. The title therefore succeeds and Chapter Four, into 8 sub-themes. The author in communicating the central thesis of the book— that first established the doctrinal foundation before genuine spirituality must always be guided by objective discussing abuses and then concludes by proposing theological truth rather than subjective emotions or personal theological remedies. experiences. This objective is reinforced in the Preface,

among some preachers.

Chapter One: Historical Development of the Doctrine of the Holy Spirit

The first chapter is undoubtedly the scholarly backbone of the book. Rather than discussing contemporary issues immediately, the author traces the historical evolution of Christian understanding of the Holy Spirit. Beginning from the Old Testament concept of Ruah, he explains how Israel gradually understood God’s Spirit before moving into the New Testament revelation through Christ and Pentecost. The chapter then surveys the contributions of the Apostolic Fathers, the Cappadocian Fathers, St. Augustine, the Ecumenical Councils, the Middle Ages, the Protestant Reformation and Vatican II. One particularly commendable aspect is the author’s demonstration that Christian doctrine did not emerge suddenly but developed through centuries of theological reflection and ecclesiastical discernment. The discussion of the Cappadocian Fathers and Augustine is especially valuable because it shows how early theologians clarified the divinity and personhood of the Holy Spirit during periods of doctrinal controversy. The chapter concludes by emphasising that many modern misconceptions are simply old heresies reappearing in contemporary forms.

The table of contents shows this deliberate progression from history, to contemporary issues, to theological evaluation. The General Introduction lays the conceptual foundation of the entire book. The author argues that every misconception begins with faulty understanding. Consequently, he defines important concepts such as theology, the Holy Spirit and misconception before addressing controversial issues. One of his strongest arguments is that people perish because of lack of knowledge. Ignorance creates fertile ground for deception, especially where self-proclaimed prophets manipulate unsuspecting Christians for financial gain. He insists that pastors have a responsibility to educate believers about the authentic person and work of the Holy Spirit so they will not become victims of exploitation. He identifies two major causes of misconceptions: poverty of theological understanding and exploitative motives

Chapter Two: Misconception of Some Gifts of the Holy Spirit

This is perhaps the most practical and controversial chapter of the book. Here, the author discusses three major charismatic gifts: Speaking in tongues, Prophecy as well as Healing and miracles. Rather than denying these gifts, he acknowledges their biblical authenticity but criticises their abuse. His treatment of speaking in tongues is balanced. Drawing heavily from 1 Corinthians 12–14, he argues that tongues should build up the Church and be intelligible within communal worship. He criticises practices where believers are taught to manufacture glossolalia or where unintelligible speech becomes a badge of spiritual superiority, noting that Paul preferred intelligible instruction for the edification of the Church. Read full article online - www.thisday-

RIGHT OF REPLY

Re: Otti’s Three-Day Memory Ferdinand Ekeoma

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he author of the piece titled “Otti’s Three-Day Memory” is, by all indications, a pseudonymous writer hired to do a hatchet job. Reputable political commentators based in Owerri say he does not exist. Not a single notable journalist in Owerri has acknowledged ever hearing that name. This suggests that the writer is not only an illiterate comedian who should not be taken seriously, but also a hapless ignoramus attempting to discuss a subject beyond his knowledge and intellectual gravitas. Worst of all, he is a coward who clearly does not believe in the dirty job he has been paid to do. Why are we responding? To cure a debilitating ignorance that ought not to be given a public platform, and to disabuse the minds of victims and potential victims who may be misled by the falsehoods and disinformation emanating from him. On Subsidy Removal and Governor Otti’s Commendation of the President Governor Otti stands by his statement that the President took a wise, commendable, and courageous decision in removing fuel subsidy and floating the naira. For the record, Governor Otti’s stance on economic reform is rooted in deep intellectual conviction, not political convenience.

His advocacy for subsidy removal predates the Tinubu administration. However, the President deserves commendation for having the courage to implement it. Those embittered by this position should reflect on their understanding of democracy and governance. Timeline of Governor Otti’s Position: March 13, 2016, in his backpage column, “Outside The Box” titled “The Foreign Exchange Monster” in Thisday Newspapers, Dr. Otti had argued over 10 years ago that the foreign exchange market needed to be deregulated. Again, in another Backpage column on September 24, 2018, titled “Subsidies: Working the Monkey and Feeding the Baboon” Dr. Otti maintained that subsidy was not sustainable and that the beneficiaries were those who it was not intended for. On August 24, 2020, writing in his column, “Outside The Box” in ThisDay Newspapers, titled “Towards Dismantling the Petroleum Subsidy Regime” Dr. Otti argued extensively that Nigeria must remove fuel subsidy, warning that it had become an unsustainable scam. Again on October 5, 2023 Gov. Otti delivered the 63rd Founders Day lecture of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka where he publicly endorsed

the removal of petroleum subsidy, stating it was the right decision that should have been taken a decade earlier, while advising that better cushioning measures be put in place. On December 22, 2023 in Lagos, Governor Otti praised the President’s courage, reiterating that unifying the exchange rate and removing the subsidy on petroleum— which he again described as a scam — would yield long-term economic benefits. In March 2026, while receiving Federal Character Commissioner Dr. Victor Ikeji, Otti reaffirmed his long-held position, stating “some of us have held positions in the past that completely align with what the President is doing today... the President was courageous enough to make a decision on it.” Otti So the question is: why has this now become an issue? Is it because of never enjoyed the people’s support members, and Senators. Yet Abia elections that is around the corner? or acceptance until they left office in was the only state that produced a 2023, because the people refused to Governor. Was that by accident? On Otti Being Afraid of Offending forgive them. In 2023, Otti became Governor A Certain Category Of Supporters Otti’s political platform, the with 175,467(One Hundred and The peddlers of this hogwash Labour Party, fielded candidates in Seventy-Five Thousand, Four betray a lack of understanding of Abia governorship elections in no fewer Hundred and Sixty-Seven) votes. politics and the history of Otti’s politi- than 30 states in 2023. The 2023 In 2015, the same Alex Otti polled cal journey, which began in 2014. For “Obidient Wave” swept across those 180,882 (One Hundred and Eighty the records, Otti was overwhelmingly states and other parts of the federaThousand, Eight Hundred and elected by Abia people in 2015 as their tion, producing House of Assembly Eighty-Two) votes. Does this not Governor. This was nationally acmembers, House of Representatives speak to Otti’s enduring popularity? claimed. It was called the “Otti Wave” in Abia. Those who subverted that Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com mandate, and the direct beneficiaries,

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ANALYSIS How Zenith Bank’s Cancer Care Initiative is Giving Nigerians Second Chance at Life Through strategic healthcare investments, Zenith Bank is demonstrating that corporate social responsibility can save lives, restore dignity and give vulnerable Nigerians a second chance, writes Omolabake Fasogbon

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or many Nigerians, a cancer diagnosis is often the beginning of a financial, emotional and psychological crisis. Families sell property, exhaust their savings, borrowheavilyorsimplyabandon treatment because they cannot afford the cost of chemotherapy, radiotherapy or surgery. In a country where access to specialist cancer care remains limited and treatment costs are beyond the reach of many households, thousands of lives are lost each year, not only because of the disease itself but because help arrives too late or not at all. Against this backdrop, Zenith Bank Plc is redefining what corporate social responsibility (CSR) means in Nigeria. Rather than limiting CSR to periodic donations or symbolic community projects, the bank has adopted a long-term approach that addresses one of the country’s most pressing public health challenges. Through strategic investments in cancer awareness, prevention, early diagnosis and treatment, Zenith Bank is demonstrating that corporate institutions can become powerful partners in saving lives and strengthening healthcare delivery. Its interventions illustrate a growing recognition that businesses have responsibilities beyond generating profits. Increasingly, they are expected to contribute meaningfully to solving social problems, particularly in areas where public resources alone cannot meet rising demand. For Zenith Bank, healthcare has become one of the defining pillars of its sustainability agenda. The bank’s approach reflects the philosophy that when businesses invest in healthier communities, they also invest in stronger economies, more productive citizens and a more sustainable future. Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death globally, and Nigeria continues to face enormous challenges in combating the disease. Delayed diagnosis, inadequate screening facilities, shortage of specialist treatment centres and the high cost of care have combined to make cancer one of the country’s most difficult public health battles. Recognising this reality, Zenith Bank has deliberately focused its healthcare CSR on removing some of the financial barriers that prevent vulnerable Nigerians from accessing life-saving care. This approach aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3 on Good Health and Well-being and Goal 10 on Reducing Inequalities. Standing with Cancer Patients Beyond financial assistance, Zenith Bank has worked to create a culture of empathy around cancer. Each year, employees participate in cancer awareness campaigns by wearing cancer awareness lapels, serving as visible reminders that the fight against cancer is everyone’s responsibility. The initiative may appear symbolic, but its impact extends much further. It encourages conversations about early detection, reduces the stigma associated with cancer and reminds patients and survivors that they are not alone. Within corporate Nigeria, such initiatives help normalise discussions about preventive healthcare while encouraging more people to seek timely medical attention. One of Zenith Bank’s most impactful interventions has been its partnership with the WinCancer Foundation. Recognising that thousands of Nigerians discontinue treatment simply because they cannot pay, the bank directly funded chemotherapy and radiation therapy for financially disadvantaged cancer patients in Lagos. For beneficiaries, the intervention representedhopeandmeantanotheropportunity to fight for life. Additionally, it meant parents remaining with their children, breadwinners returning to work and families being spared the devastating choice between survival and financial ruin. The partnership also acknowledges that

Redefining Corporate Citizenship Zenith Bank’s healthcare interventions reflect a broader shift in how responsible businesses measure success. Corporate value is no longer determined solely by balance sheets and profitability. Increasingly, it is measured by the positive impact companies create within the societies where they operate. Healthcare represents one of the areas where this impact is most visible. By investing in awareness campaigns, funding treatment, supporting vulnerable patients, strengthening partnerships and introducing innovative mobile healthcare solutions, Zenith Bank has demonstrated that CSR can move beyond philanthropy to become an instrument for national development. Its interventions improve access to healthcare, promote early diagnosis, reduce treatment costs for vulnerable families, strengthen disease awareness and support government efforts to reduce preventable deaths.

Umeoji

healing extends beyond medicine. Cancer survivors receive specially designed care packages that provide emotional, psychological and mental support throughout recovery.These initiatives recognise the fact that successful healthcare is not measured only by clinical outcomes but also by the dignity, confidence and emotional resilience restored to patients. Extending Care Beyond Hospital Walls Zenith Bank has equally recognised that lasting healthcare transformation cannot be achieved by one institution acting alone. The bank has therefore expanded collaborations with organisations already working within vulnerable communities. Among the most notable partnerships is its support for the Charly Boy Foundation, an organisation committed to improving men’s health through prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment, diabetesmanagementandmentalhealth advocacy. The bank’s donation funded complete prostate cancer treatment for 40 men requiring urgent medical intervention. For many beneficiaries, the intervention eliminated costs that would otherwisehaveplacedtreatmentbeyond reach. Beyond the number of beneficiaries, the partnership demonstrates how strategic collaboration between the private sector and civil society can significantly improve healthcare outcomes. Perhaps the most transformative element of Zenith Bank’s healthcare CSR is its investment in mobile cancer diagnostic and treatment centres. Rather than waiting for patients to travel long distances to urban hospitals, the bank chose to bring specialist healthcare directly to communities. Its funding of ten Mobile Cancer Diagnostic and Treatment Centres, popularly known as PinkCruise, represents one of the most ambitious healthcare interventions ever undertaken by a Nigerian financial institution. The innovation addresses one of Nigeria’s greatest

healthcare challenges—geographical access. For millions of Nigerians living outside major cities, specialist medical facilities remain hours away. By the time many patients reach hospitals, diseases have often progressed to advanced stages. The PinkCruise initiative changes this narrative. These fully equipped mobile centres travel directly into communities, providing services that many residents would otherwise never access. Their facilities include cancer screening, mammography, colonoscopy, endoscopy, colposcopy, cryotherapy, laboratory investigations, vaccination services and minor surgical procedures for pre-cancerous conditions and early-stage cancers. Importantly, the centres extend beyond cancer care. Communities also receive screening for hypertension, diabetes, kidney disease, hepatitis, HIV, obesity, malaria, schistosomiasis and Helicobacter pylori infection. Eye examinations under the Mission PinkVISION programme further broaden access to preventive healthcare. Every outreach becomes a one-stop health intervention capable of identifying multiple life-threatening conditions before they become critical. Reaching CommunitiesThat Need Help Most The impact of the mobile programme became evident soon after the arrival of the first pilot centres. Operational units were established across Lagos, Abuja, Asaba and Port Harcourt, extending specialist healthcare to Nigeria’s major regions. Community outreach began in Agbor, Delta State, where residents received free cancer screening, medical examinations, eye care services, nutritional support, treatment and referrals regardless of age or gender. Subsequent programmes expanded across Lagos and other locations, bringing preventive healthcare directly to thousands of Nigerians. According to reports from the Cancer Education and Prevention Programme (CECP), more than 5,000 Nigerians benefited during the initiative’s early implementation phase. For many participants, the screenings represented their first comprehensive health examination. Some discovered underlying conditions early enough for effective treatment. Others received referrals before illnesses progressed into life-threatening emergencies.

Investing in Lives Zenith Bank has shown that corporate organisations have both the capacity and the responsibility to become active participants in that effort. Its healthcare CSR programme is an investment in people, families and communities. In demonstrating that responsible banking extends beyond financial services to improving lives, Zenith Bank is setting a compelling example of how corporate social responsibility can become a powerful force for healthcare transformation. In doing so, the bank is proving that some of the most meaningful returns on investment are not measured in financial statements, but in healthier communities, restored hope and lives given a second chance. Zenith Bank has over the years, continued to restore hope, dignity and confidence to some of Nigeria’s most vulnerable citizens. For instance, in partnership with the Marymine Mother’s Care Initiative Network (MMCIN), the bank supported the launch of the “Protect the Dignity of Our Females” project, a programme designed to improve menstrual hygiene management while raising awareness about sexual and gender-based violence in IDP camps across Benue State. More than a corporate social responsibility initiative, the project addressed two issues that often receive little attention during humanitarian emergencies. For many displaced women and girls, the absence of sanitary products and accurate reproductive health information affects their education, health, confidence and participation in community life.At the same time, overcrowded camp conditions expose many to heightened risks of abuse and exploitation. In April this year, the bank celebrated the Zenith Bank’s 2026 International Women’s Day seminar with the theme, “Take It, You Own It.” The bank also held the inaugural ‘Woman of PowerAward,’inpartnershipwithFordFoundation. The event was about visibility and bringing into the national consciousness the everyday women who hold communities together, often without acknowledgment or reward. Sustainability is deeply embedded in the bank’s operations and strategic vision. In commemorating World Environment Day 2026, Zenith Bank chose to move beyond words and demonstrate what responsible corporate citizenship can look like in practice. By cleaning streets, restoring waterways, partnering with public institutions and promoting environmental awareness, the bank transformed a global environmental theme into local action. As cancer continues to threaten countless Nigerian families, Zenith Bank’s healthcare interventions demonstrate that responsible corporate citizenship can bridge critical gaps in access to life-saving care. By investing in awareness, early diagnosis, treatment and community partnerships, the bank is not only transforming cancer care but also giving thousands of Nigerians what every patient deserves—a genuine second chance at life.

GLOBAL W’CUP TICKET SOCCER AT STAKE

THISDAY, The SATURDAY Newspaper • april 24, 2011

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weekly pull-out

Samuel Ogazi

8.8.2026

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Broken Jinx, Record Setting in Glasgow

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2026 COMMONWEALTH GAMES ACCOMPLISHMENT

Samuel Ogazi

Broken Jinx, Record Setting in Glasgow Every sport has its defining barrier, a historic ceiling that athletes from a particular nation chase for generations but can never quite break.For Nigerian men’s athletics,that barrier was the 400-metre track at the Commonwealth Games. For nearly a century, legendary Nigerian quarter-milers had stepped onto the global stage, only to fall just short of the ultimate prize. But on a crisp, electric night in Scotland, a 20-year-old sensation from Kaduna did what no Nigerian man before him had ever accomplished.With a blinding burst of speed and unparalleled grit, Samuel Ogazi did more than just win a race, he rewrote the record books, inspired a nation, and asserted himself as the new king of the track, writes Kunle Adewale

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hestadiumlightsofGlasgowcaught the sweat glistening on Samuel Ogazi’s shoulders, but it was the clock that held the world captive. 44.25 seconds. In the time it takes to draw a few deep breaths, the 20-year-old sprinter from Kaduna did what no Nigerian man before him had ever accomplished in the 96-year history of the Commonwealth Games. He didn’t just win the 400-metre gold medal; he completely rewrote the narrative of Nigerian quarter-mile running. For decades, Nigeria’s athletic identity had been built on raw, explosive speed—the short sprints of the 100m and 100m hurdles. The 400 metres, a brutal discipline requiring an excruciating mix of aerobic endurance and tactical pacing, was often seen as the domain of the Caribbean giants or American titans. Yet, on that cool Scottish night, Ogazi shattered the status quo. His golden run was not a stroke of luck; it was the explosive culmination of a journey defined by calculated discipline, collegiate dominance, and an unyielding self-belief.

The Genesis of a Quarter-Mile Prodigy

Long before he became the toast of the Commonwealth, Samuel Ogazi was a quiet teenager running on the dusty tracks of Nigeria’s school sports festivals. Unlike many sprinters who stumble into the 400 metres after failing to make the cut in shorter races, Ogazi embraced the event early. He understood the rhythm of the track. He knew how to conserve his energy through the backstretch and when to launch his assault on the final bend. His breakthrough on the domestic scene caught the attention of international scouts, eventually earning him a scholarship to the University of Alabama in the United States. It was a well-trodden path for Nigerian athletics talent, but Ogazi’s transition was seamless. Under the elite collegiate system, his raw, natural stride was refined into a mechanical weapon. He learned the science of the “death zone”—the final 100 metres where lactic acid turns the legs of ordinary men to lead. Ogazi didn’t fear the pain; he mastered it. By the time the 2026 collegiate season came around, Ogazi was already dropping ominous times. He wasn’t just competing; he was dominating, stepping up to the biggest stages with the composure of a veteran. Yet, the true test of his mettle would not be in the colours of his university, but in the green and white of his motherland.

The Perfect Storm in Glasgow

The 2026 Commonwealth Games arrived at a critical juncture for Team Nigeria. While the country’s para-athletes and weightlifters had historically carried the medal burden, the track team was desperate for a new icon—particularly on the men’s side. The expectations were high, but few outside the Nigerian camp predicted a historic golden

Ogazi leads the pack in the 400m in the recently concluded 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow reverberated far beyond Glasgow. For peak of a typical 400-metre runner’s career. sweep in the men’s long sprints and field 72 years, Nigerian men had chased this The event usually favours older, physically events. particular glory. By capturing the 400m gold, mature athletes who have spent years buildOgazi arrived in Glasgow focused and ing the specific endurance required for the Ogazi broke a historic jinx and signaled unbothered by the media pressure. Through distance. Ogazi has bypassed that timeline a renaissance in Nigerian male sprinting. the heats and the semi-finals, he ran with a entirely. Combined with Ezekiel Nathaniel’s historic relaxed, almost casual grace. While rivals His 44.25-second run in Glasgow firmly gold in the 400m hurdles and Chukwuebuka burned precious energy trying to make statements early in the rounds, Ogazi did just Enekwechi’s shot put triumph, Ogazi’s victory establishes him in the upper echelon of global athletics. It sends a clear message to spearheaded a historic tournament where enough to secure prime lane assignments. the rest of the world: Nigeria is no longer the men truly changed the story for Team On the night of the final, the atmosphere just a threat in the short relays or the hurdles; Nigeria. inside the stadium was electric. Standing in the green-white-green is now a force to be “I just wanted to run my race and his blocks, Ogazi looked down his lane. He execute what I practiced,” Ogazi told jour- reckoned with in the quarter-mile. knew the history. He knew about the legends nalists in the mixed zone, draped in the As the curtains fell on the 2026 Comof Nigerian athletics—Innocent Egbunike, monwealth Games, with Nigeria finishing Nigerian flag, a calm smile replacing the Sunday Bada—men who had come close but as the highest-ranked African nation in 7th fierce intensity he had shown on the track had never climbed the highest step of the place, Ogazi’s gold stood out as the crown minutes prior. “To know that I am the first Commonwealth podium in this specific jewel of the tournament. He didn’t just win a to do this for my country is a blessing I event. race; he gave an entire nation a blueprint for cannot fully describe. This is for everyone When the gun went off, Ogazi executed a success—proof that with the right combinaback home who kept believing.” flawless race plan. He didn’t panic when the tion of grassroots talent, elite training, and Back in Nigeria, social media erupted. inside lanes made an early push. As the runners unwavering mental fortitude, Nigerian From the sports halls of Lagos to the hit the 200-metre mark, he began to turn the streets of Kaduna, Ogazi’s name became athletes can conquer the world. screw, using his long stride to eat up the track. Samuel Ogazi’s journey from the tracks synonymous with excellence. He was Coming off the final bend, he was neck-andof Kaduna to the podium in Glasgow is the no longer just a promising collegiate neck with the world’s best. Then came the definitive sports story of 2026. It is a tale of athlete; he was a national hero, the legendary Ogazi kick. While others began to a young man who ran against history, ran vanguard of a new generation of Nigerian fade, tying up under the immense physical against the clock, and won. And as he sets track kings. strain, Ogazi found another gear. He crossed his sights on the upcoming World Chamthe line, eyes fixed on the timer, stopped at a pionships and the global stage, one thing is The Dawn of a New Era magnificent Games record of 44.25 seconds. What makes Ogazi’s achievement so certain: the world will be watching, but they Breaking a Century-Old Jinx frightening for his competitors is his age. will have to run very fast to catch up with The sheer weight of Ogazi’s victory At just 20 years old, he is nowhere near the him.

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2026 WAFCON... 2026 WAFCON...

Maradona’s goal in the quarter-final match saw him illegally punch the ball into the net Super Falcons captain, Ajibade and teammates put up a superlative performance against Egypt

Nigeria, Cameroon Battle for 2027 World Cup Ticket

Kunle Adewale

Tomorrow’s Women’s AfricanCupofNations(WAFCON) quarter final clash between the Super Falcons of Nigeria and the Indomitable Lioness of Cameroon is not just a ticket for the semifinals of the competition, but a ticket to the 2027 World Cup in Brazil. Super Falcons scraped through the quarter-finals after recovering from an opening Group C opening game loss to Malawi to beat Zambia and Egypt. However, the eggheads of the 10-timeAfrican champions are not taking things lying low after the team’s coach, Justine Madugu declared that his players would approach the game with maximum focus. “It’s a final for us. We won’t take it for granted,” Madugu told reporters after his side’s victory over Egypt. The gaffer also admitted that they put themselves in a difficult position after losing to Malawi in their first game. “We put ourselves in a very difficult position, but thank God we managed to get out of it. The competition is just starting for us,” Madugu said. Meanwhile, former Super Falcons chief

coach, Kadiri Ikhana has warned table Lionesses finished Group that Nigeria risk crashing out of D unbeaten with two wins and a WAFCON 2026 when they face draw, conceding just two goals. Cameroon’s Indomitable Lion- Despite Ikhana’s concerns, he is esses in Sunday’s quarterfinal not writing Nigeria off. “Based at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in on Cameroon’s group stage Casablanca, unless the team sig- performance, they will start as nificantly raises its level. “Super favourites to win on Sunday, Falcons have not impressed so but Super Falcons are usually far in the championship, and I at their best when written off,” don’t see them beating Cam- he said. “I trust our girls to go all eroon if they fail to raise their out for victory by not allowing game when they clash in the the Lionesses to play their usual quarterfinals on Sunday,August high tempo game. It will be a 9,” Ikhana said. “I just hope the very tough game, but Super Super Falcons find their rhythm Falcons can squeeze through again, reach the semifinals and if they come with theirA-game.” pick a World Cup ticket.” His Cameroon finished top of concern is rooted in how uneven Group D, featuring Ghana, Mali Nigeria’s group stage actually and Cape Verde. The winner of was. The Super Falcons lost their this quarter-final will automatiopener to tournament debutants cally qualify for the 2027 World Malawi, then needed wins over Cup in Brazil, while the loser Zambia and Egypt just to scale will have to attempt to qualify through. “I don’t really know through first theAfrican playoffs why our girls have not been at between losing quarter-finalists their best so far. They should and then the Inter-Confederation realise that a World Cup ticket is playoffs. at stake, and we cannot afford to miss the chance of qualifying for Q’final Fixtures the World Cup,” Ikhana added, referencing the fact that this Today Ivory Coast v Algeria year’s WAFCON doubles as Morocco v South Africa qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’sWorldCup.Cameroon Sunday Cameroon v Nigeria arrive as one of the form teams Malawi v Ghana of the tournament. The Indomi-

N50m for Grab as Delta Ethnic Peace & Unity Cup 2026 kicks Off Sylvester Idowu inWarri i

The Convener of the 2026 Delta Ethnic Peace & Unity Cup and National Coordinator of the Center for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ), Chief Mulade Sheriff, has inaugurated the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the forthcoming youth Football competition, describing the tournament as a strategic platform to strengthen peace, unity, cultural integration, and youth empowerment across Delta State. Speaking during the inauguration ceremony yesterday, Chief Mulade, who is the Ibe-Sorimowei of the ancient

Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri ing opportunities for positive South-West council area, said engagement across communities the initiative, jointly organised and ethnic groups. by CEPEJ and the Africa 4 According to the CEPEJ Boss, Peace Sports Academy, is the competition will serve as designed to unite the state’s a vehicle for breaking ethnic seven major ethnic nationali- barriers, building trust, and ties—Ijaw, Itsekiri, Isoko, An- reinforcing the values of toleriocha/Oshimili, Ika, Ndokwa, ance, dialogue, and cooperation, and Urhobo—through sports which are essential for sustainwhile promoting mutual able development in Delta State. understanding and peaceful Chief Mulade noted that the coexistence. tournament would also provide He explained that the Delta a constructive platform for Ethnic Peace & Unity Cup is engaging youths, inspiring more than a football compe- leadership, discovering sporting tition, stressing that it is a talents, and redirecting young peacebuilding project aimed people towards productive venat fostering friendship among tures capable of contributing to young people, encouraging the growth of their communities cultural exchange, and creat- and the state at large.

Jessica Oji Makes History, Wins Nigeria’s First-ever World U20 Field Event Gold Nigeria’s Jessica Oji has etched She improved on that mark with Germany’s Emily Scherf claimed her name into the country’s her second throw, hitting the bronze at 17.23m. sporting history after becoming championship-winning distance Oji had already signalled the first Nigerian athlete to claim of 18.08m, before following up her readiness for gold during a gold medal in a field event with 17.95m and, after two fouls, qualification, topping the standings at the World Athletics U20 a strong closing throw of 18.07m. with a throw of 17.56m to cruise Championships, delivering a Her consistency throughout the into the final as the athlete to sensational winning throw of final left no doubt about beat. Her triumph in Oregon 18.08m in the women’s shot her dominance, as she ends a 24-year wait for Nigeria put final in Eugene, Oregon. remained the only athlete in in a women’s field event at the The 19-year-old opened her the competition to clear the championships and marks the campaign in style, launching 18-metre mark. Ecuador’s country’s first-ever gold in any a powerful 18.05m in her first Belsy Jenniffer Quiñónez settled field event at the World U20 level, attempt to seize an early lead. for silver with 17.90m, while track or field.

Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ Ball Expected to Sell for $10m

The soccer ball that Diego who died in November foes Argentina and England Maradona used to score his 2020, wore during the flared again in a semi-final at notorious “Hand of God” Argentina-England clash this year’s World Cup, where the goal during Argentina’s win currently holds the record South American side prevailed over England in the 1986 for the most expensive soc- before losing the final. World Cup is expected to cer shirt - standing at $9.3 Politically, the two sides have a sell for $10 million at a US million. long-standing sovereignty dispute auction this month. Tensions between old over the Falkland Islands”l Maradona’s goal in the quarter-final match saw him Money’ll Deciide Venue of Fury Vs Joshua’s Clash illegally punch the ball into The long-awaited venue, that’s why I know where the net - a foul missed by heavyweight showdown the venue is. I did the deal. We at the referee. between Tyson Fury and TKO (the company which owns After the match, the Ar- Anthony Joshua will take UFC, WWE and Zuffa Boxing) gentine star said his goal was place “where the money is”, did the deal for television and scored “a little with the head says Dana White. we did everything,” White told of Maradona and a little with White, who founded the Sky Sports. the hand of God.” His nation UFC and new promotion There has been much speculawent on to win the World Zuffa Boxing, is a major tion that Fury vs Joshua could Cup. figure in combat sports. take place in the United States Heritage Auctions, based He revealed that he knows rather than Britain, with Edin Texas, expects the ball will where Fury vs Joshua will die Hearn, Joshua’s promoter, sell for eight figures when take place. claiming: “I really feel strongly it goes under the hammer “We’re the ones that have that this is something that from 21 to 23 August, with done all the deals for this should happen in the UK and a $2.5 million opening bid. fight. I did the deal for the we’ll do all we can.” The jersey that Maradona,

Okocha Stood Fearless, Reclaims Bragging Rights at Thrilling ‘Chaos in The Ring’

Fearless Energy Drink, the 2023. The bout, flagship energy drink brand however, took an from Rite Foods Limited, unexpected turn powered one of Nigeria’s big- when Portable gest entertainment spectacles walked out of the as the energy drink sponsor of ring during the the highly anticipated celebrity openingroundand boxing rematch, Chaos in the was subsequently Ring, where Nollywood actor d i s q u a l i f i e d , and comedian Charles Okocha handing Charles emerged victorious over street- Okocha a dramatic pop star Habeeb Okikiola, victory and bragpopularly known as Portable. ging rights. Tensions escaHeld on Friday, July 31, 2026, at the Balmoral Convention lated moments when Chaos in the Ring - Fight Centre, Federal Palace Hotel, earlier Victoria Island, Lagos, the block- Portable took Okocha to the an action-packed evening of buster event drew an impressive canvas in a wrestling-style move, celebrity and professional boxcrowd of celebrities, sports prompting swift intervention ing contests. Basit “Joker Boy” enthusiasts, entertainment from the referee and security Adebayo, Yusuf Adeniji, Suleilovers, and hundreds of excited personnel. Although Portable man Jafaru, Michael Babalola, fans eager to witness the latest later returned to argue that the and Shiloh “Sugar Shy” Defreitas chapter in one of Nigeria’s most takedown should have secured all recorded impressive victories talked-about celebrity rivalries. him the win, officials upheld the in their respective bouts, underTagged “Unfinished Busi- rules of the contest and officially scoring the growing popularity ness,” the rematch reignited awarded victory to Okocha. Beyond the headline clash, andcommercialappealofcombat the rivalry that first captured sports in Nigeria. public attention in December Chaos in the Ring delivered

Young Nigerian Creators Launch LagosInspired Games at UNILAG Showcase

It was a blend of gaming, culture and everyday life at Game Lab, University of Lagos, Akoka, as young creators showcased their first playable Roblox projects after completingthe“BuildAfricaonRoblox” programme. One of the games presented at the graduation showcase reflected the Lagos transport system, as the organisers said they are using games to project African culture, tell local stories andshowcaselifeacrossNigeria and other African cities. Two teams unveiled games theybuiltfromscratch.Oneofthe

games,“AfroDriver”capturesthe fast-pacedandoftenchaoticnature of transportation in Lagos, while the other, “Spirit Runner”, takes players on a culturally inspired adventure. Both projectsarefully playable on Roblox. The first cohort of the “Build Africa on Roblox” programme is funded by the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub, an initiative of the Digital Access Programme (DAP) under the UK Government’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). The programme was delivered at Gamr Lab, with support from the French Embassy in Nigeria

acrossGamrstudios’programmes. Speaking with our correspondent, Program Lead and Game Director at Gamr Lab, Gideon Uwem, said the programme is designed to create opportunities for young Africans to thrive in the gaming industry. “Gaminghasgonebeyondjust esports because there is so much more it can do. Today, games are helpingtoshapeculture,tellstories and preserve identity. If you look at countries in Europe and Asia, they are using games to tell their own stories. We believe Africa should be doing the same,” he said.

“W rent a ga tack subs amo Nige

Price: N400

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OBINNACHIMA

PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI.

EDGY OPTIMIST obinna.chima@thisdaylive.com

When ‘Network Failure’ Becomes Strategy to Defraud Businesses

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igeria's transition to a cash-less economy has been one of the country's most remarkable financial success stories. From cash reduction, ease of payment, financial inclusion, improving the effectiveness of monetary policy in managing inflation, supporting economic growth, convenience, efficiency, among several others, the benefits of a cash-less society far outweigh its demerits. That is why as part of efforts to sustain its gains, successive leadership of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) have made efforts to ensure that policies around Nigeria’s payment system vision remain formidable. Today, electronic transfers remain the preferred means of payment for millions of Nigerians when they go into supermarkets, restaurants, hospitals, pharmacies, filling stations and when they deal with artisans. The country is one of Africa’s largest digital payments ecosystems, with electronic payment transactions running into over N3 quadrillion annually, billions of instant payment transactions processed every year, and one of the continent’s fastest-growing fintech industries. However, hidden beneath this success story is an emerging form of internal fraud that deserves urgent attention from business owners, regulators and customers alike. Today, there are reported cases whereby when a customer arrives at a store in Lagos and some other cities in Nigeria, to purchase an item, when it is time to make payment, the cashier brings out a point-of-sale (PoS) terminal, pretends as if he or she is attempting to process the payment and suddenly announces that the company's account is experiencing "network failure." Before the customer even suggests to transfer the money or decides to make transfer to the account, the cashier quickly brings out a personal account number and assures you that the money will be transferred to the company later. Pressed for time and anxious to leave, many customers comply. The transaction is completed and the customer walks away. From petrol stations and supermarkets to pharmacies, hotels, restaurants, cinemas, hospitals, courier companies, beauty salons, electronics stores and even some private

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schools, this practice is becoming disturbingly common. What many customers perceive as a genuine network glitch in some instances is an avenue to divert the company’s revenue into personal accounts. A friend who attended Kennyblaq’s concert at Eko Hotels last month was shocked when he arrived at the venue and was made to make payment into someone’s account all in the name of “network failure,” and because he arrived for the concert late, he quickly responded and went in. For some businesses, this practice goes unnoticed until stock begins to disappear without corresponding sales receipts and their revenue begins to drop. As customers, we should be concerned when an employee substitutes the organisation’s official account with a personal account without proper authorisation. Once money enters into a personal account, the customer has no guarantee that it will ever reach the organisation. Ironically, this practice thrives because some dishonest employees exploit the weakness within Nigeria's digital payment infrastructure. Network disruptions remain an unfortunate reality. Banking applications occasionally fail and at times, payment transfers are delayed. Interestingly, this was the focus of a recent policy report launched by The Bridgforte Centre

for Global Impact titled, ‘Trust Architecture in Platform-led Finance,’ which highlights that Nigeria’s cash-less policy depends on public confidence in electronic payments. The further report further argues that trust in transactions is shaped by how institutions respond when payments fail, disputes arise and customers seek redress. It reveals that for every successful transfer completed in seconds, there is another customer waiting days for a failed transaction to be reversed. For every digital lending platform expanding access to credit, there are growing concerns over data privacy, algorithmic decision-making and consumer protection. Fraud continues to evolve alongside innovation, while customer confidence is often tested not by the sophistication of technology but by how institutions respond when things go wrong. Former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and Founder of Bridgeforte, Aishah Ahmad, stressed the need to strengthen trust in the payment system while allowing innovation to flourish. Rather than focusing on expanding access, the new report argues that the next frontier of financial inclusion should be to enhance confidence—confidence that digital platforms will work reliably, institutions will resolve disputes fairly, regulators will protect consumers and technology will operate transparently. However, the need to strengthen public confidence was recently acknowledged by the CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, who noted that, “people must have confidence that they are dealing with a safe, reliable payments system." Unfortunately, genuine network problems have now become convenient cover for dishonest employees. The phrase "network is down" has become the perfect excuse. History shows that many major financial frauds begin with seemingly harmless shortcuts. The Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE) recently estimated that MSMEs in the country lose between N5 trillion and N10 trillion annually to employee corruption and occupational fraud. Chief Executive Officer of CPPE, Dr. Muda Yusuf, in a policy brief, stated that beyond the visible pressures of inflation, weak purchasing

power, high operating costs, infrastructure deficits, and constrained access to finance, employee corruption and occupational fraud within the MSME ecosystem remained a less visible but deeply corrosive threat. He said addressing this challenge is not only an ethical or managerial concern but a strategic economic priority for the country. “These losses silently destroy profitability, suppress investment, eliminate jobs, weaken government revenue and slow inclusive growth. Fraud prevention, governance strengthening, and digital transparency must become central pillars of enterprise policy and business practice in order for Nigeria’s MSME sector to realise its full potential as an engine of growth,” he added. He advocated that reducing occupational fraud in MSMEs would require coordinated public-sector support, including “a national MSME internal-control framework linked to credit and government programmes, accelerated digital financial inclusion for small businesses, stronger legal enforcement and asset-recovery mechanisms, expanded governance education.” To ensure that they remain as going concerns, every organisation must establish a non-negotiable policy that customers must never pay money into employees' personal accounts and the company’s account details should be prominently displayed at payment points. Receipts should clearly identify the beneficiary organisation. Alternative official payment channels should be available whenever network challenges arise. Additionally, they must carry out daily reconciliation of electronic payments and random transaction reviews should be conducted. For customers, whenever an employee requests payment into a personal account, you can politely ask whether the arrangement has been authorised by management. If there is doubt, insist on paying through the organisation's official account or request to speak with a supervisor. Nigeria's digital payment revolution has brought enormous convenience and expanded financial inclusion and must not be undermined by avoidable internal fraud disguised as temporary "network failure."

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