James Emejo in Abuja The federal government and
Commodity risks rejections in EU markets Oduwole: It’s both formidable challenge and transformative opportunity for our country stakeholders in the cocoa value chain, yesterday met to assess the progress so far made towards complying with the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) on sustainability. The EU, which accounts for over 60 per cent of
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Suspect in Kirikiri, airline operators place indefinite flight ban Obi condemns double standard by security agencies
Keyamo: Person who released video of stripped lady will be sanctioned Nigerian online respondents ignore real issues, discuss culprit’s anatomy
Barely one week after renowned Fuji musician, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as Kwam1, tried to stop an Abuja-Lagos flight operated by ValueJet
Says local governments unable to fully address ongoing challenges
To channel resources to providing essential services, economic opportunities Project expected to benefit up to 7.4 million people five Arraigned, remanded in dss’ Custody over 2022 Attack on owo Catholic Church... Page 21
L-R: Dr. Mrs. Nonyem Onyechi, Coordinating Director, Planning and Business Development, NASENI; Erica Liu, SA China Affairs to the EVC; Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu; Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole; and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Ambassador Nura Abba Rimi during the minister’s tour of NASENI facilities... yesterday
NIMASA BoArd’S INAugurAl MEEtINg...
L-R: Executive Director Operations, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Engr. Fatai Taiye Adeyemi; Director General, NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola; NIMASA Board Chairman, Hon. Yusuf Hamisu Abubakar; Executive Director, Maritime Labour and Cabotage Services, NIMASA, Mr. Jibril Abba; Executive Director, Finance and Administration, NIMASA, Mr. Chudi Offodile; and NIMASA Board Member, Mr. Babatunde Bombata, during the Board’s inaugural meeting in Lagos... recently
Mo Ibrahim seeks efficient use of Africa’s 30% of global mineral reserves
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Despite a $74 billion Official Development Assistance (ODA) inflow into Africa, a report by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation (MIF), has said that this funding has been cancelled by the about $90 billion Illicit Financial Flows (IFFs) from the continent.
In its latest forum report titled: “Financing the Africa We Want”, it also stated that Africa’s domestic financial resources were being significantly undermined by huge debt servicing burden.
According to the report, while the continent’s potential gains from taxes, sovereign wealth funds, pension funds and remittances are substantial and largely untapped, the issue of illegal flows out of the continent remain a challenge.
“Africa’s external public debt nearly doubled from $349.4 billion in 2014 to $690
billion in 2023, amounting to 24 per cent of the continent’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Debt service consumes almost 14 per cent of government spending twice the allocation for health.
“Additionally, the continent loses approximately $90 billion annually to IFFs, surpassing the $74 billion received in ODA in 2023,” the new report added.
Besides, with a tax-to-GDP ratio of 16 per cent, it stated that Africa lags behind other regions, stressing that only 14 countries meet the 15 per cent threshold deemed necessary for sustainable development.
“Wealth taxes are virtually non-existent and corporate tax exemptions result in an estimated $55 billion in foregone revenue annually”, it stressed.
While highlighting that African sovereign wealth funds and pension funds hold significant potential,
with assets estimated at $130 billion and $220 billion, respectively, it noted that remittances contribute over $90 billion annually, representing more than 10 per cent of GDP in several countries.
“African pension funds and sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) are conservatively valued at around $220 billion and $130 billion, respectively, while remittances generate an additional $90 billion in inflows“However,annually. debt and illicit
financial flows are drying up Africa’s domestic resources. With the continent’s external public debt stock making up almost a quarter of its GDP ($690 billion), debt service is costing countries billions and diverting funds away from key development priorities like health, education and adaptation to climate change.
“Additionally, IFFs and tax holidays are costing Africa almost $90 billion and around $55 billion a year, respectively. Though not the most indebted region at
global level, Africa’s debt-toGDP ratio is the highest in the world,” the report noted. It admitted that debt is not necessarily an issue because most world regions require liquidity in the form of debt to achieve economic develop- ment goals, as evident in Asia, but explained however that when debt makes up almost a quarter of GDP, as in Africa, it diverts key funds away from public needs, especially in a time of exogenous crises.
“Debt service has risen to a total of $102.6 billion
in 2024, or 13.6 per cent of government expenditure. That is almost twice what the continent spent on health (7.3 per cent in 2021) and almost as much as education expenditure (14.7 per cent in 2023),” it said.
It also highlighted recent massive ODA cuts from historical donor countries.
“On the day of his second inauguration on 20 January 2025, US President Donald Trump froze US aid for 90 days, pending a government review.
Blessing Ibunge in Port
Clamping down on oil theft and associated crimes in the Niger Delta, troops of 6 Divi-
linus Aleke in Abuja
The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, yesterday approved a further extension of the grace period for the enforcement of the tinted glass permit require- ment for vehicles with tinted windows to October 2, 2025.
A statement by the force headquarters stated that the decision followed a significant surge in applications via the official portal, reflecting heightened public compli- ance with the directive.
The statement in Abuja signed by Force Spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, noted that the force considered it imperative to allow sufficient time for the meticulous scrutiny of applications to ensure that the permit is issued only to eligible and qualified indi- viduals in line with national security considerations.
The extension, he said, will also provide room for the continued fine-tuning of verification processes, both digital and physical,
to maintain the integrity of the permit system and prevent abuse.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed that the authorised platform for the application remains the same and advised citizens to disregard any unofficial channels.
The police encouraged members of the public to report all forms of extortion, hidden charges, or unauthorised processing to the appropriate police authorities.
sion, Nigerian Army, arrested 71 suspects and destroyed 14 illegal refining sites across states in the region.
In a statement yesterday by Acting Deputy Director, 6 Division Army Public Relations, Lt. Col. Danjuma Jonah, the Nigerian Army said troops also recovered over 33,000 litres of stolen refined petroleum products, in the operations conducted between July 21 and August 10.
Jonah disclosed that in Rivers State, along Kilometre 45 in Degema Local Government Area, two illegal refining sites were deactivated, and over 22,500 litres of stolen products recovered.
He stated that during the operation, two wooden boats used for the illicit activities were demobilised, adding that in Omoku, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area, two wooden boats loaded with eight sacks of stolen crude
were intercepted.
Similar operations conducted at the fringes of the Imo River, according to the army spokes- person, led to the deactivation of five illegal refining sites, with 16 drum pots, two drum receivers, and over 2,000 litres of stolen products recovered at Obuzor in Abia State, and Okoloma and Oyingbo local government areas of Rivers State.
He said a dug-out pit filled over 1,500 litres of stolen products was handled appropriately.
Similarly, in Bayelsa State, around Bassambiri in Nembe Local Government Area, Jonah said “troops raided a store, where 16 units of 30 litres jerry cans loaded with stolen products hidden in the store. At Biseni in Yenagoa LGA, troops uncovered an illegal refining site with over 1,200 litres of stolen products recovered”.
He added, “This was in addition to several raid operations
conducted with other sister services in the state, which led to the arrest of multiple criminals.
“While, in Delta State, a vehicle with Registration Num- ber AG 02 KWR loaded with 31 units of 25 litres jerricans filled with stolen Automotive Gasoline Oil was intercepted at Omuseti junction along Kwale to Ozoro road in Ndokwa West LGA.”
Meanwhile, General Officer Commanding (GOC), 6 Division, Major General Eric Emekah, while appreciating informants for their support, stated that when illegal products were discovered, due diligence was applied to verify the authenticity of the product.
“However, where the product is discovered to be genuine it is usually handed over to the owner in line with the mandate of Operation DELTA SAFE,” Emekah said.
L-R: Executive Secretary, Kebbi State Emergency Management Agency, Alhaji Abubakar Abdullahi; Kebbi State Commissioner of Humanitarian Affairs, Alhaji Mohammed Hamidu Jarkuka; Director General, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mrs. Zubaida Umar; Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement for Northwest, Alhaji Abdullahi Yakasai; and Director, Search and Rescue NEMA, Air Commodore Kenneth Oyong, during the flood response simulation exercise “Hadin Kai” organised by NEMA at Dukku, Kebbi State, last Thursday
Bassey Inyang in Calabar
Health Authorities in Nigeria have disclosed that about 2,690 women have so far been provided with Free Fistula Surgical Care, while over 5,000 women accessed free emergency obstetrics care between January and
MayThe2025.disclosure was made by Principal Officer, National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Dr. Agi Amogor, at the venue of a multistakeholder meeting held recently in Calabar, the Cross River State capital.
Speaking on the topic,
“Health Insurance in All Inclusivity,” Amogor said, “In a major boost for maternal health, the Fistula Free Programme, FFP, launched in June 2024, is tackling the estimated 4,000 new cases of obstetric fistula recorded annually in Nigeria.
“By May 2025, 2,690 women
had received free fistula surgi- cal care, while 5,289 women accessed emergency obstetric care nationwide between January and May 2025.
“In Cross River State, 247 beneficiaries have been treated, with services available at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, General
Oilden Energies Limited, an indigenous producer and marketer of best-in-class lubricant products, has rolled out ambitious business development and expansion goals aiming, among others, to capture 67 per cent of the country’s domestic engine oil market by 2028.
The company said the goal would be achieved by expanding the capacity of its existing manufacturing plant located in Epe, Lagos State, from the current 40,000 metric tons per annum
(mtpa) to 60,000mtpa.
Group Chairman of Oilden Energies Limited, Mr. Oluwatoni Oladiran, disclosed that yesterday in Lagos during a press conference heralding the unveiling of the company’s new subsidiary, slated to happen this Friday.
Oladiran stated that Africa’s lubricant market was currently valued at $4.2 billion annually, grow- ing about 3.5 per cent per year, with Nigeria alone accounting for over 600 million litres in annual lubricant consumption.
He said, globally, the top 30 lubricant suppliers collectively accounted for over 70 per cent of global production capacity, and the goal of Oilden was to take its rightful place among them.
Oladiran stated, “Today is more than just a prelude to an event; it is a celebration of our heritage, our capabili- ties, and our determination to play a defining role in shaping Nigeria’s — and Africa’s — industrial and energy future.
“Oilden Energies Ltd. is proudly 100 per cent Nigerian-owned, with a
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, yesterday lauded the strides made so far by the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) under the leadership of Mr. Khalil Halilu. Oduwole made the com-
mendation after inspecting NASENI facilities, including the NASENI Innovation Hub, NASENI technology site at the Abuja Technology Village, the NASENI Troment facility and another facility at Abuja Technology Park, Idu Industrial Area. The visit, according to a statement by the Deputy Director, Information, NAS-
ENI, Chima Akwaja, was part of efforts by the ministry to assess local industrial capacity and see high-impact projects that are accelerating the federal government’s ‘Nigeria First Policy’, an agenda focused on boosting domestic production, encouraging local consumption, and creating jobs through industrialisation.
simple but powerful mission: to deliver petroleum services of the highest quality — onshore and offshore — and provide world-class products at competitive prices for both domestic and international markets.
“Our vision is ambitious yet achievable: to be Africa’s leading lubricants supplier and to rank among the top 30 globally by 2030.”
Hospital Calabar, General Hospital Ogoja, Sacred Heart Hospital Obudu, and Holy Family Hospital, Ikom.”
Amogor disclosed that the successes recorded in the state were made possible byHeNHIA-FFP. said, “The scheme has enrolled 33 out of 49 identified vulnerable women under the FFP, and about 200 beneficiaries under the Comprehensive Emergency Maternal Obstetric Care (CEMOC) programme.”
Amogor stated that the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF), working in collaboration with NHIA, had boosted access to essential health services in Cross River State in 195 fully operational primary health centres, and 10 secondary health facilities serving as referral hubs.
Speaking on the NHIA– Roche Cancer Initiative, Amogor said the initiative, aimed at improving access to innovative cancer medicines, and ensuring financial risk
protection, had so far treated over 200 patients nationwide, many with early-stage cancers, under its cost-sharing arrangement.
He said NHIA-Roche covered 50 per cent of treatment costs, NHIA 30 per cent, and insured enrolees 20 per cent. The programme has expanded from seven to 18 accredited centres nationwide, with three immunohistochemistry machines installed at teaching hospitals in Port Harcourt, Abuja, and Ile-Ife. At the meeting, themed, “Charting a New Landscape in Health Insurance,” Cross River State Coordinator of NHIA, Stanley Effah, said there was need for residents to embrace social health insurance as the “gateway to quality and af- fordable healthcare”.
Effah said many services, including caesarean sections and certain cancer treatments, were now free or heavily subsidised under NHIA’s programmes.
Plans have been concluded towards ensuring that each member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) gets N200,000 credit facility, as the scheme enters into a partnership with Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP).
Tagged, YouthCred, eligible corps members would be able to access up to N200,000 single-digit interest loan under the programme.
Speaking at the signing
of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between CREDICORP and NYSC yesterday in Abuja, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of CREDICORP, Engineer Uzoma Nwagba, said N9billion had been earmarked for the first phase of the programme.
According to Nwagba, the programme is in fulfil- ment of President Bola Tinubu’s Democracy Day address on June 12, where he promised that a credit initiative targeting 400,000
Nigerians, including youth corps members, would be launched.
Nwagba stated the first phase of YouthCred focused on NYSC members, who will be required to complete a short digital credit education programme before becoming eligible for the credit facility. He explained that the loan was intended to support a range of needs, including relocation, purchase of work tools or devices, skills training, and funding for small businesses.
L-R: Hon. (Justice) Adejumoke Oluwatoyin Adewole; Chief Judge of Ogun State, Hon. (Justice) Mosunmola Dipeolu; Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun; his deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele; Hon. (Justice) Julius Adebayo Ojikutu; and Hon. (Justice) Oluyemisi Oluwakemi Adebo, during the swearing-in of three new judges into the Ogun State judiciary by Governor Abiodun at the Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, yesterday
As fund partners SAZU, trains 1,000 students, 15 staff on career devt.
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja and Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi
Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has disclosed that in line with its mandate towards public tertiary educational institutions, six multidisciplinary research laboratories are being installed at different locations across the country.
TETFund said four of the state-of-the-art facilities were currently being installed in Rivers, Kano, Abuja, and Lagos, while work on the two will commence before the end of the year.
In a related development, TETFund, in collaboration with Sa’adu Zungur University (SAZU), trained 1,000 students and 15 staff members on career choices and professional development.
The training, organised by the university’s Directorate of Human Resource and Career Development, and fully sponsored by TETFund, was aimed at building the
professional capacity of both students and staff.
Executive Secretary of TETFund, Sonny Echono, disclosed the installation of the six multidisciplinary research laboratories, yesterday, in Abuja while receiving the leadership of Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), led by its President, Mobolaji Adeniyi.Echono revealed that the agency would soon commission some iconic projects across the country, adding that four of the projects would be unveiled in Kano and Osun states before the end of the month.
He said that would enable researchers conduct a wide range research locally, thereby eliminating the need to send research samples abroad for analysis.
According to Echono, “The biggest observation that was made when I became TETFund Executive Secretary was the fact that we were dotting our campuses with all sorts of blocks. But we
are now transiting to iconic buildings.
“I am pleased to report that, within the week, we would commission some of the projects that I feel proud to associate with, and then Nigerians will see what the new type of architecture of our campuses that reflect the ambience that is required.
“Campus architecture has its own serene, its own grandeur that is known all over the world. And they were trying to recreate that in our campuses. Thereafter, we will be in Osun State, where we will commission several projects before the end of the month.
“So, Nigerians will begin
to see what our campuses should look like, not some of the horrible videos that we have seen depicting inhumane living environ- ment.”
Adeniyi applauded the intervention agency under Echono for the development of infrastructure in the education sector.
The NIA president called for patronage by more NIA members, especially in the design of institutions’ infrastructure.
Adeniyi stated, “These interventions in Nigeria’s Tertiary Education sector have left indelible marks in our educational development.
As KOICA ends 4-year $10m funded Korea-Nigeria smart education project
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
TUniversal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) said 70 per cent of the over 10 million out-of-school children in the country had benefitted from its digital literacy initiative. It said 60 per cent of public primary school teachers, who did not possess basic digital literacy, had also benefitted.
UBEC also stated that Nigeria had achieved tremendous
digital transformation in basic education with a total of 21 smart schools currently in operation across the country.
Executive Secretary of UBEC, Aisha Garba, who announced this on Monday in Abuja, disclosed that efforts were currently ongoing to com- mence academic activities in the remaining 16 out of the 37 smart schools established by the commission in each state of the federation, including the
Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Garba spoke at the official closing ceremony of the $10 mil- lion funded Korea International Cooperation Agency, KOICA- Nigeria Smart Education Project.
The project, which com- menced in 2021 with a record of discussion (RoD) signed between UBEC and KOICA on October 26, came to a close on August 11, 2025.
The UBEC boss highlighted significant milestones recorded
through the partnership with KOICA on introduction of smart education in Nigeria, saying when the project began in 2021, Nigeria was faced with sobering realities.
She stated, “Over 10.1 million school-age children were out of school, 70 per cent of those enrolled lacked foundational learning skills, and more than 60 per cent of public primary school teachers did not possess basic digital literacy.
deji elumoye in Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has named a former House of Representatives member, Ayo Hulayat Omidiran as the new Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission.
She succeeds Dr Muheeba Dankaka, whose tenure was dogged by controversy. Presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, in a release issued on Monday, stated that the President also appointed
Abiola as Director-General of the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre (CLTC). In another release issued by presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, disclosed that Ms. Abiola, an expert in strategic communication and government relations, previously served as Senior Special Assistant to the President. He also appointed Nasir Bala Aminu Ja’oji as Senior Special Assistant on Citizenship and Leadership. Names Mohammed Musa secretary, renews term of four commissioners Appoints 31 new commissioners Names Rinsola Abiola DG of CLTC Appoints Nasir Bala SSA on citizenship and leadership Reconstitutes HYREP’s council and board of trustees
Mohammed Musa as the Commission’s secretary while retaining Kayode Oladele from Ogun as Oladele,commissioner. a former House of Representatives member, was appointed by President Tinubu in 2024 as the commission’s acting chairman. The President renewed the appointment of Lawal Ya’u Roni, Abubakar Atiku Bunu and Eludayo Eluyemi, representing Jigawa, Kebbi and Osun States, for a second term.
The President also reappointed Abdulwasiu Kayode Bawalla, the commissioner from Lagos State. The Commissionersnewly-appointed include Hon. Obina Oriaku, Abia; Mrs. Bema Olvadi Madayi, Adamawa; Obongawan Dora Ebong, Akwa – Ibom; Hon. Nnoli Nkechi Gloria, Anambra; Babangida Adamu Gwana, Bauchi; Sir Tonye Okio, Bayelsa; Aligba Eugene Tarkende, Benue; Engr.Modu
Mustapha, Borno; Dr. Stella Odey Ekpo, Cross River; Ederin Lovette Idisi, Delta; Nwokpor Vincent Nduka, Ebonyi; Hon. Chief Victor Sabor Edoror, Edo; Hon. Sola Fokanle, Ekiti; Peter Eze, Enugu; Ibrahim Baba Mairiga, Gombe and Hon. Jerry Alagbaoso, Imo.
Others commissioners are Ruth Jumai Ango, Kaduna; Muhammad Awwal Nayya, Kano; Hon. Anas Isah, Katsina; Bello Idris Eneye, Kogi; Dr.
Ibrahim Abdullahi, Kwara; Alhaji Isah Jibrin, Niger; Comrade Ajimudu Bola, Ondo; Prince Ayodeji Abas Aleshinloye, Oyo; Hon. Pam Bolman, Plateau; Aaron Chukwuemeka, Rivers; Alhaji Aminu Tambar, Sokoto; Comrade Bobboi Bala Kaigama, Taraba; Hon. Jibir Maigari, Yobe; Sani Garba, Zamfara and Solomon Ayuba Dagami, FCT.
Also on Monday, President Tinubu appointed Ms. Rinsola
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
A prominent Al Jazeera journalist, Anas Al Sharif, who had previously been threatened by Israel, was killed along with four colleagues in an Israeli airstrike on Sunday in an attack condemned by journalists and rights groups.
But Israel’s military said it targeted and killed Al Sharif, alleging he had headed a Hamas militant cell and was involved in rocket attacks on Israel.
Al Jazeera, which is funded by the Qatari government,
The World Bank yesterday announced the approval of $300 million (about N462 billion) for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and their host communities in the northern part of Nigeria, under the Solutions for the Internally Displaced and Host Communities Project (SOLID).
A statement from the bank stressed that the new initiative will enhance access to essential services and economic opportunities for IDPs and host communities in selected local government areas in the troubled region.
The IDP crisis in northern
cocoa farmers to comply with the regulation which bordered on sustainable cocoa trade under the EUDR Compliance framework.
The deadline applies to the broader EUDR, which includes cocoa and other commodities, and was extended from an earlier date to allow for more preparation time.
Failure to comply could lead to rejection of Nigerian cocoa exports to Europe, among other punitive measures.
However, speaking at the Nigeria-EU Cocoa Roundtable on EUDR Compliance in Abuja, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, described the development as both a “formidable challenge and a transformative opportunity” for the country.
She said the regulation was a call to action as it remained a “pivotal moment for Nigeria’s cocoa industry”.
Oduwole said the roundtable was more than a highlevel dialogue but a “platform to align national ambition with global standards, as well as a crucial step in ensuring the resilience, sustainability, and competitiveness of our cocoa value chain”.
The minister pointed out that the the EU deforestation
rejected the assertion, and before his death Al Sharif had also denied such claims by Israel, Reuters reported yesterday.
“Anas Al Sharif and his colleagues were among the last remaining voices in Gaza conveying the tragic reality to the world,” Al Jazeera said in a statement.
Al Sharif, 28, was among a group of four Al Jazeera journalists and an assistant who died in an airstrike on a tent near Al Shifa Hospital in eastern Gaza City, Gaza officials and Al Jazeera said. A hospital official said two
Nigeria is one of the most pressing humanitarian challenges in the country, driven largely by a combination of armed conflict, banditry, and communal clashes, with the Boko Haram insurgency in the North-east serving as the single largest trigger.
For more than a decade, towns and villages in many states in the northern region have suffered repeated attacks, forcing millions to abandon their homes in search of safety. In the North-west, rising bandit violence, kidnappings, and cattle rustling have displaced thousands more, while intermittent farmer–herder clashes in the
regulation was reshaping the way agricultural commodities are traded globally.
She said, “But beyond that, Nigeria and this administra- tion is at the forefront of climate change and climate justice, and what is important to is the use of our land for sustainability.
“So, without even an external project, this is something that is Nigeria first. As Mr. President has put it, always Nigeria first in this issue. We’re thinking first and then joining the rest of the world to see how we’re using our resources for the betterment of everybody.
“So, for Nigeria, Africa’s fourth largest cocoa exporter, it’s both a formidable challenge and a transformative opportunity.
“With the EU accounting for over 60 per cent of our cocoa exports, compliance is not optional. It is an eco- nomic, environmental, and developmental imperative. And importantly, we have to support our domestic farmers and investors who are in this space.”
Also, Senior Special As- sistant to the President on Agribusiness and Productivity Enhancement, Dr. Kingsley Uzoma, said the commodity remained a cornerstone of
other people died.
A sixth journalist, local freelance reporter Moham- mad Al-Khaldi, was also killed in the strike, medics at Al Shifa Hospital said on Monday.
Calling Al Sharif “one of Gaza’s bravest journalists”, Al Jazeera said the attack was a “desperate attempt to silence voices in anticipation of the occupation of Gaza”. The other journalists killed were Mohammed Qreiqeh, Ibrahim Zaher and Mohammed Noufal, Al Jazeera said.
“The deliberate targeting of journalists by Israel in the
Middle Belt have added to the numbers.
While these displacements often strip these victims of their livelihoods, property, and social support networks, many IDPs end up in overcrowded camps, makeshift shelters, or host communities ill-equipped to absorb the sudden influx.
Besides, THISDAY reports that conditions in some of these camps are dire, with inadequate access to clean water, healthcare, education, and sanitation. Also, malnutrition, disease outbreaks, and lack of schooling for children are persistent problems.
In these conditions, women
the country’s economic diversification agenda.
Yet, he said financing constraints remained a key challenge, with funding gaps limiting production growth, quality improvement, and compliance readiness.
He said cocoa represented a strategic non-oil export that fuels the country’s transition from petroleum dependency, adding that the cash crop exports recorded a 606 per cent increase in the last
disruption happened on Ibom Air’s Uyo-Lagos flight Q9 303 onTheSunday.incident involved one Ms. Comfort Emmanson, who was said to have refused to abide by safety regulations by switching off her phone before take-off of the flight from Uyo, and also beating up the cabin crew on arrival of the flight in Lagos.
However, Emmanson has been sent to Kirikiri Correctional Centre in Lagos State, following her arraignment by the police, while the Airline operators of Nigeria (AON), has placed an indefinite flight on her.
Ibom Air maintained that Emmanson’s conduct posed a serious threat to the safety
Gaza Strip reveals how these crimes are beyond imagination,” Qatari Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, said on X.
The U.N. human rights office condemned the killings, saying the actions by Israel’s military represented a “grave breach of international humanitarian law” as Palestinians reported the heaviest bombardments in weeks.
Its post on social media platform X was accompanied by a photograph of flattened blue tents next to a bulletridden wall in Gaza City,
and girls, in particular, face heightened risks of genderbased violence, exploitation, and early marriage.
But the World Bank explained in the statement that by adopting an integrated development strategy, the SOLID Project seeks to help both IDPs and host communities move towards greater selfsufficiency and resilience, in line with Nigeria’s long-term development goals.
“Ongoing conflict and insecurity in Northern Nigeria have forced more than 3.5 million people from their homes, putting significant strain on local infrastructure in areas where IDPs have settled.
quarter of 2024.
Nigeria’ cocoa exports rose from about N171 in the last quarter of 2023 to N1.2 trillion, reflecting not only global demand but the resilience and potential of the country’s agricultural sector.
Uzoma said, “Cocoa is no longer just a commodity; it is a strategic lever in our economic transformation. This positions cocoa as a
the Reuters report said.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is “gravely concerned” about the repeated targeting of journalists in Gaza, his spokesperson said.
However, the Israeli military said in a statement that Al Sharif led a Hamas cell and “was responsible for advancing rocket attacks against Israeli civilians” and Israeli troops, citing intelligence and documents it said were discovered in Gaza as evidence but which it did not disclose.
Israel denied deliberately
“The resulting population surge has led to limited access to services and increased vulnerability to natural disasters like flooding. Local governments are unable to fully address these challenges and meet the needs of both residents and displaced populations. This has led to competition for scarce resources and limited livelihood opportunities for all.
“The SOLID Project will build on previous efforts by the Nigerian government, international partners, and the earlier World Banksupported Multi-Sectoral Crisis Recovery Project (MCRP), which focused on short-term emergency recovery,” the Bretton Woods institution stressed.
According to the global financial institution, key priorities for the project include: Developing and maintaining climate-resilient infrastructure as well as promoting social cohesion and community resilience through participatory development planning, economic cooperatives, and the integration of IDPs.
targeting journalists, saying many of those killed in Israeli airstrikes were members of Islamist militant groups, working under the guise of the press.
and sustain new economic activities as well as strengthening institutions to better respond to demographic changes caused by forced displacement.
Speaking on the initiative, World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Mathew Verghis, emphasised that the project has the potential to help Nigeria in addressing development challenges associated with protracted displacement in a sustainable way. He said: “We are glad to support this initiative which has a tremendous potential to help Nigeria in addressing development challenges associated with protracted displacement in a sustainable way.
“The Project’s integrated approach which is aligned with the National IDP Policy and the FGN’s long-term development vision will ensure that IDPs and host communities can transition from dependency on humanitarian assistance to self-reliance and resilience which will open up better economic opportunities”.
Besides, it explained that the programme will support livelihoods to help both IDPs and local residents initiate
of its crew, passengers, and aircraft.
In a statement signed by the airline management, Ibom Air stated that shortly before take-off from Uyo, Emmanson was instructed in line with standard aviation safety procedures, to switch off her mobile phone.
“She bluntly refused to comply until the Pilot-in- Command made an announcement, after which a fellow passenger seated beside her took the phone and switched it off. This action prompted a verbal attack from Ms. Emmanson, but the situation eventually calmed, and the flight departed as scheduled,” it added.
The airline disclosed that
upon arrival in Lagos, Em- manson waited for all other passengers to disembark and then proceeded to confront the Purser (head of cabin crew) who had earlier instructed her to switch off her phone.
“She walked up to the unsuspecting Purser, stepped on her, forcibly tore off her wig, removed her glasses and threw it to the floor, and used her footwear to assault her. She slapped her several times and when the other cabin crew member tried to intervene, she slapped her too. She then attempted to forcibly remove a fire extinguisher to use as a weapon, an act that could have damaged and grounded the aircraft.
“By this time, the Pilot-in-
The multilateral development bank pointed out that
Netanyahu Continued on page 21 Continued on page 20
Command had alerted airport security. Before security could arrive, the Purser as seen on the viral video on the internet, prevented the passenger from leaving the aircraft until security arrived. The arrival of Ibom Air Security personnel, did not deter the passenger, as she attacked them as well, lashing out violently at the security personnel.
“She was then restrained and removed from the aircraft by force. Even after disembarking, she continued to assault Ibom Air security personnel, and even slapped the ground supervisor,” the airline stated.
All these were captured in
L-R: Executive Director, African Subsidiaries, Access Bank Plc, Seyi Kumapayi; Chief Executive Officer, Pan African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), Mike Ogbalu III; Deputy Managing Director, Access Bank Plc, Chizoma Okoli; and, Group Head, Retail Operations, Access Bank Plc, Abraham Ehijator Aziegbe, during a courtesy visit of PAPSS Executives to Access Bank to further discussions to enhance customers experience with transborder payments, following the successful integration of PAPSS on the AccessMore app, held at Access Towers, Lagos…recently
President Bola Tinubu has rejoiced with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) on retaining the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Maturity Level 3 (ML3) status for the regulation of medicines and vaccines.
The global health regula-
tory body conducted a rebenchmarking exercise from May 28 to May 30, 2025, assessing NAFDAC against globally recognised standards for regulatory performance. NAFDAC attained ML3 status in 2022, becoming Africa’s first National Regulatory Authority to achieve this milestone in regulating medicines and vaccines (non-
producing).
In consonance with the WHO policy, periodic reviews are conducted to ensure sustained compliance.
The latest evaluation followed a formal rebenchmarking in November 2024 and five Institutional Development Plan (IDP) review meetings between February and April 2025 to
assess progress on corrective actions.
The President, according to a release issued on Monday by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, welcomed WHO’s verdict that “NAFDAC has successfully maintained a regulatory system that operates as a stable, wellfunctioning, and integrated framework for regulating
Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has applauded PE Energy Limited for its strides in local content development, especially in human capital development, in the Niger Delta.
Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Felix Ogbe, made the commendation at the end of HCD training programme organised by PE Energy Limited, in collaboration with Chevron Nigeria Limited and NCDMB, in Port Harcourt.
The programme is part of Nigeria’s ongoing drive for local content excellence and talent development within the oil and gas sector.
Implemented by PANA Academy, the competency development arm of PE Energy Limited and a subsidiary of PANA Holdings, the 12-month intensive, represents a significant step toward addressing the human capital gap within the energy sector.
It was delivered in align- ment with the 2020 HCD Guidelines of NCDMB, as part of the Chevron MakarabaUtonana Gas Management
Project.
Structured to combine eight months of in-depth classroom instruction with four months of practical, on-the-field training, the curriculum was designed to build technical and vocational skills that aligned with the evolving demands of the energy sector.
It emphasised real-world readiness, innovation, and a strong professional ethos preparing participants not just for employment, but for leadership within the sector.
An achievement from the programme was the automatic employment of six
Funmi Ogundare
The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN), yesterday inducted 101 new medical doctors from Benjamin Carson College of Health and Medical Sciences, Babcock University, IlishanRemo, Ogun State. The 10th induction ceremony, held at the
university’s Amphitheatre, saw 32 graduates honoured with distinctions, with Dr. Chisom Emmanuella Okafor emerging as the overall best graduating student.
Dr. Okafor, who aspires to become a surgeon and medical researcher, earned an impressive 10 distinctions across key medical disciplines, including Family Medicine,
Anatomy, Biochemistry, Pathology, Pharmacology, Paediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Internal Medicine, Surgery, and Physiology. She was awarded N400,000 by the Ogun State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) and N500,000 by an anonymous donor in recognition of her academic excellence.
high-performing graduates by PE Energy Limited, an inspiring gesture that reflects the organisation’s commitment to sustainable local capacity development.
The graduates were recognised for their exceptional performance in character, competence, and commitment to the core values that shaped the training experience.
medicines and vaccines (nonproducing). This achievement results from investment by the Government of Nigeria in strengthening the regulatory system.”President Tinubu commended NAFDAC’s management and staff for their professionalism, consistency, and dedication to safeguarding public health, noting this achievement strengthens Nigeria’s standing as a reliable partner in global health security and pandemic preparedness.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s capacity to ensure the safety, quality, and efficacy of medicines and vaccines in line with international best practices.
He emphasised this milestone complements his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda to transform Nigeria’s healthcare system.
President Tinubu acknowl-
edged the progress in the administration’s initiatives to upgrade over 17,000 primary health centres nationwide, improve maternal care and diagnostics in underserved communities, train 120,000 frontline health workers, and double national health insurance coverage within three years.
He stressed that promoting local production of healthcare products remains a priority.
The President pledged that Nigeria will continue collaborating with credible partners, development agencies, and donor organisations to promote the pharmaceutical sector, attract investment in health-related industries, and expand local manufacturing capacity.
He assured his administration will continue to support NAFDAC in its journey towards achieving WHO’s Maturity Level 4, the highest global standard of regulatory excellence.
David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka
The member representing Nsukka/Igbo-Eze South federal constituency in the 10th National Assembly, Hon. Chidi Mark Obetta, has said his defection with his colleagues to the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State will strengthen Gov. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah’s administration.
He spoke during an interface between the state governor and leaders of political parties in Enugu North Senatorial zone, otherwise known as, Nsukka socio-
cultural zone held at the Hall of Fame, University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) at the weekend.
The lawmaker cited the recent appointment of an “indigenous Nsukka son as Vice-chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, UNN, for the first time after the citadel of learning was founded in Nsukka soil 65 years ago, as one of those dividends.
Hon. Obetta further stated that the 5,000-capacity shop Nsukka International Market which the governor flagged off same day was a clear testa-
ment that the governor has genuine plans, and, committed to developing Nsukka zone. He recalled that when he with his colleagues, including the member representing Udenu/Igbo-Eze North federal constituency, Hon. Dennis Agbo, along with their other supporters decided to return to the PDP following the leadership crisis in their former political party, the Labour Party (PDP), he had made it clear that the decision was borne out of their passion and commitment to advance the course of the development of their area.
L-R: Head of Jury Committee, Lagos Advertising and Ideas Festival (LAIF) Management Board, Ralph
of Sponsorship
Adeleye; Vice President, Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN), Adekoyejo Abiola; Chairman, LAIF Management Board, Jay
Management Board, Henry Akpede and Head, Events and Public Relations Committee, LAIF Management
edition of the LAIF Awards tagged ‘2025 LAIF Creative Festival’ and held in Lagos on Friday.
James Sowole in Abeokuta
The furore between the Ogun state government and a former Governor of the state, Senator Gbenga Daniel, over a quit notice and demolition threat served on the federal lawmaker’s properties, festered yesterday, with Daniel accusing the government of political victimisation.
The properties in question are the Asoludero Court, Sagamu; Conference Hotel, Sagamu and the G Hotel Annex, also located in Sagamu.
Daniel through one of his aides, Steve Oliyide, alleged that Governor Dapo Abiodun’s private residence in Iperu, has no valid docu- ments too and should also be affected by the law he was trying to enforce.
The former governor maintained that those properties that were affected by the government’s actions, have valid documents and the documents were in govern-
ment custody, stating that court action may be taken against the state government.
Oliyide alleged that Abiodun lacked the moral right to serve a contravention order on anyone in Ogun State, describing the demolition threat as “clear political persecution and witch-hunting” and vowed it would be resisted “within the ambit of the law.”
But in a counter press conference, the government, through the State Com- missioner for Urban and Regional Planning, Mr Tunji Odunlami, challenged Daniel to present documents of all the properties in question for verification.
Odunlami called on Daniel to send his representatives to the relevant government offices to show his documents for verification and obtain clearance. He insisted that the government follows clear procedures whenever a property is to be sealed.
The Ogun state govern-
ment stated that the goal of physical planning laws and regulations is to aid urban development and control land use in the public interest, noting that the ongoing exercise in Sagamu and Ijebu-Ode local government areas is not to victimise any law-abiding citizens but to ensure that development laws are Odunlamiobeyed.stated that the exercises were aimed at verifying the permit status
of all types of developments, including houses, schools, hospitals, and other commercial buildings.
The owners of such properties, Odunlami noted, were served due notices to approach the Ogun State Planning and Development Permit Authority, an agency of the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, to present relevant documents in conformity with existing building laws
and regulations.
“It is pertinent to note that this is a daily routine and ongoing activity of this agency and is devoid of witch-hunting, and therefore not designed to harm the interests of any individual. It is a simple and transparent approach that is known and adopted worldwide, including in most states in Nigeria. What we are currently doing is no “Thisexception. exercise has been
done in Abeokuta and is now extended to Sagamu and Ijebu-Ode, where there is no fuss except this one. It is also going to be carried out in Ota and Ilaro, where we also have GRAs,” he said. The commissioner emphasised that the owner of any building served with the notice only needs to approach the office that issued the notice and present their permit and other documents for verification.
Says Tinubu’s pro-youth govt focused on promoting peace, unity among Nigerians
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
Nigeria has pledged unalloyed support to the newly appointed United Nations Global Advocate for Peace, Maryam Bukar Hassan, in her bid to promote unity and peace across the globe.
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
The National Identity Management Commission has successfully upgraded its diaspora enrolment platform in order to ensure effective service delivery and smooth management of the National Identification Number (NIN) enrolment outside the country.
According to a statement on Monday by the Head, Corporate Communica- tions of the Commission, Dr. Kayode Adegoke, the
upgrade process, which was successfully completed, will, amongst many other benefits, provide a seamless, robust, more secure, efficient and effective NIN service delivery to Nigerians in the Diaspora.
He said: “Consequently, NIMC Diaspora Front-End Partners (FEPs) have been onboarded on the upgraded system with intensive training to equip the FEPs with the prerequisite knowledge on the application and effective management of the new system.
“While all the Diaspora FEPs are required to obtain and activate their NIN enrolment licenses on the upgraded platform within the next forty-eight hours (48 hours), diaspora applicants can access enrolment services from the compliant FEPs.”
He however said: “The Commission apologizes for any inconvenience the platform upgrade process might have caused and has set up a dedicated service team to resolve all issues related to diaspora enrolment.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima, who made this known, yesterday, in Abuja, described the appointment of Maryam, a Nigerian spoken word artist and peace advocate who was the first person to hold the role across the UN’s entire Peace and Security Pillar, as well deserved.
Speaking when the United Nations Global Advocate for Peace led her team on a courtesy visit to his office at the State House, Shettima noted that Maryam, had been consistent in her peace advocacy as depicted in one of her videos that went viral: ‘Violence has no Religion’.
“That is the Nigeria of our dream, and she (Maryam) has been consistent, and one of her ardent contributions was that video that went viral: ‘Violence has no Religion’.
“To me, it is the crowning glory of her career. I have watched that particular video more than a hundred times because it’s very inspiring,” the Vice President said.
Taking a leaf from former US House Speaker, Tip O’Neill, who said ‘all politics is local’, Shettima pointed out that Maryam’s resolve to align “with the challenges and the aspirations in her home state of Borno is equally inspiring.”
The Vice President assured the UN Global Advocate for Peace of Nigeria’s unflinch- ing support throughout her tenure, maintaining that the administration of President Bola Tinubu, a pro-youth administration, will do everything possible to support her cause.
His words: “On behalf of President Bola Tinubu, I want to warmly welcome you and thank you from the bottom of my heart for the great work you’re doing for the UN.
“And most importantly, on behalf of the President, I want to assure you that the present administration is a pro-youth administration, and we will do whatever it takes to support your cause.
“Rest assured, Maryam, that you’re not alone. We’re in this together, and whatever support you need, we’ll give you. In fact, as a politician, it is in my self-enlightened interest to align myself with you because you are promoting peace; you are promoting unity, not creating disunity.
“Believe me, the grass is not greener on the other side. We can make this country great. God has blessed us with enormous human and material resources, and when we properly handle them, we can really transform lives in this country.”
Earlier, leader of the delega- tion and the UN First Global Advocate for Peace, said her primary duty was to bring the message of peace to the world, just as she noted that she was not only going to be an advocate for United Nations peacekeeping but would also promote the same in Nigeria where she comes from.
Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE
Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com
08033025611 sms only
National Chairman of the all Progressives Congress, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda’s first litmus test begins with National assembly by-elections in some states scheduled for august 16, which would be followed by the anambra State governorship election on November 8. His performances in this election can either make or mar the chances of the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections. Adedayo Akinwale reports.
The recent election of Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda as the new National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), received commendations from governors, chieftains and stakeholders of the party. It is safe to say the former Resident Electoral Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is still enjoying his honeymoon before the baptism of fire begins.
Yilwatda took over from the former Governor of Kano state, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, who resigned on health grounds. Though the same health ground did not stop him from recently assuming his new position as Board Chairman of the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
His appointment, however, laid to rest the agitation from the North Central stakeholders of the party who felt the position was unduly taken away from the region when Ganduje replaced Senator Abdullahi Adamu who hails from the North Central — the region where the position was initially zoned to.
For instance, the former Governor of Plateau State, Senator Simon Lalong, when he recently led other party chieftains from the State on a solidarity visit to Yilwatda at the national secretariat of the party in Abuja, said his emergence would be an added advantage to President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections, being a former REC of INEC.
Expectedly, Lalong dismissed the threat posed by the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC), adding that the tricks in their baggage are not unusual for the APC-led administration.
According to him: “Yes, it used to be that before you become National Chairman, you must be governor or former governor. Gone are the days. We have seen people who are not former governors becoming national chairmen of the party. We have also seen some national chairmen of the party, former governors, coming here for one reason or another. They didn’t spend time.
“When you talk about party, you are talking about election. What is it about election that an electoral officer does not know? If he knows, it is an added advantage to this party. “I see a new trend. Our new trend is the gap between the old and the new. So, if the whole exercise is about movement of younger ones, movement of women and children, then it means that you must get somebody that can speak their language. I hope you understand. “You now have to get somebody that understands their language. If you understand their language, they also understand his language. That is what we have done.”
Expressing similar sentiment, Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule noted that the Chairman was coming at a time when somebody like him is needed.
According to him, “We, the people of North Central, have been agitating for the return of the chairmanship to our zone. We have no complaints now, he is from our zone. He recently visited Jos, where he was well received by all traditional institutions, religious institutions, youth, women, all the elders, so that’s exactly what it is, so he is beginning to reform the party throughout the country”.
On his part, Chairman of Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) and Governor of Imo state, Senator Hope Uzodinma, said the ruling party was happy with his choice.
“Look at him here — handsome, tall, full of energy and intelligence. Our party is very excited and happy with the choice. We are confident that this is what we’ve been looking for,” he noted.
However, the initial accolades received so far by Yilwatda were expected. Be that as it may, his first litmus test may be coming too soon with the August 16 by-elections already around the corner. His performance in these elections will be a pointer to what to expect in the Anambra State governorship election scheduled to hold on November 8, 2025. The ruling party will be slugging it out with 15 other parties for the governorship seat.
Aside from that, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections are scheduled for February 21, 2026. His performance in these elections may make or mar the chances of the ruling party in the 2027 elections and would also go a long way to determine whether he would be given the chance to lead the ruling party in the general election.
Meanwhile, Yilwatda is also expected to ensure the success of the nationwide electronic membership registration of the ruling party scheduled to commence very soon.
Recall that the party embarked on the same exercise when the Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee led by the Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni was in charge of the party.
At the end of the exercise, the party claimed that it has a membership strength of 40 million members.
But the National Secretary of the party, Senator Ajibola Bashiru said if the party actually has a 40 million membership strength, how come the presidential candidate of the party in the 2023 elections struggled to garner 10 million votes.
“If we have that membership of 45 million, how come we went to the polls and got votes
If yilwatda is to ensure he leads a united party to a major election, imposition of candidates must be prevented or totally avoided. As a former Resident Electoral Commissioner, he must ensure that the candidates of the party emerge from a fair and transparent primary election. This way, whoever loses would willingly support the person that emerges.
of less than 10 million? In line with Amilcar Cabral’s doctrine of ‘tell no lies, claim no easy victories’, that has exhumed the lie,” he had said.
So, the exercise is intended to know the actual membership strength of the party.
Nevertheless, the recent defection of sitting governors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other party chieftains to APC was already creating ripples in some states. In this regard, Delta state easily comes to mind, Yilwatda would be expected to ensure that loyal members of the party are not shoved aside by the defectors.
As the party prepares for the 2027 general election, the leadership of the party needs to ensure that all party organs function as stipulated in the party’s constitution. This would ensure the party is devoid of unnecessary drama that might affect the chances of the party in the election.
In addition, if Yilwatda is to ensure he leads a united party to a major election, imposition of candidates must be prevented or totally avoided. As a former Resident Electoral Commissioner, he must ensure that the candidates of the party emerge from a fair and transparent primary election. This way, whoever loses would willingly support the person that emerges. As Yilwatda walks unaided into his own baptism of fire, the political intrigues that lie ahead will test his faith and the political machinations of the governors will shake the foundation of his principle, especially with necessary and unpalatable compromises.
Why?
‘If someone steals money and uses it to buy property from you, and we trace that money to you, we will recover the money from you’. - Ola Olukoyede, Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission
‘….When it’s time to campaign, we must take the Politicians out of the cocoon of ethnicity, religion and other primordial considerations. We must address the problems, that are confronting our people. If you say you want to replace the people in power, what is your solution to the electricity crisis, education, bad roads….?’ - Femi Falana, SAN, Human Rights Activist and Lawyer
PROF MIKE OZEKHOME, CON, SAN, FCIArb, PH.D. LLD Constitutional Democracy, means a system of government, in which political and governmental power, is defined, limited and shared by a grundnorm called the Constitution, which provides inbuilt checks and balances.
This column seeks to fiercely discuss constitutional, legal and political issues, with a view to strengthening, deepening and widening the plenitude and amplitude of democracy and good governance, without fear or favour.
The writer of this column, Prof Mike Ozekhome, SAN, is a Constitutional Lawyer, Human Rights Activist, Pro-Democracy Campaigner, Notary Public and Motivational Speaker. He co-founded the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), Nigeria’s pioneer human rights league, on October 15, 1987, the Universal defenders of Democracy (UDD), in 1992, and with Chief Gani Fawehinmi and others in 1998, the Joint Action Committee of Nigeria (JACON), to push out the military. In his early days, he lectured at the University of Ife. Prof Ozekhome is an author of many books. He is also a Special Counsel at the International Criminal Court (ICC), at The Hague.
Where Issues in the Case are No Longer Alive
Page IV
Court Slams Zenith Bank, Police, with N85m Fine Over Illegal Account Freeze
Page V
braithwaite: editor, jude igbano
Introduction
The ugly incident that occurred between the musician, Wasiu Ayinde Anifowoshe aka KWAM 1/K1 de Ultimate and Valuejet Airline, its Staff and aviation security personnel last week, is rather unfortunate.
KWAM 1 claims that the contents of his flask which was the subject of the dispute, was water. If it was, why was it required? The first thing that you are served once you board Valuejet, even before the aircraft takes off, at least in Premium or Business Class, which I would imagine was what KWAM 1 was travelling, is water - any quantity you require. The truth is that, had KWAM 1 been at Heathrow Airport, London, or Dulles Airport, Washington DC, he could never have tried what he did at Abuja Airport. He would have been arrested. So, it was a matter of bemusement, amazement and bewilderment, watching the videos of how the KWAM 1 incident was at sixes and sevens, with ground staff pleading and talking to KWAM 1 on the tarmac, where he shouldn’t have been, in the first place. He should have been bundled away by ground staff/security, for his own safety and that of others. They were obviously ‘star struck’ or acting under the fear of ‘Bigmanism’, because, if that was you or me, we would almost certainly have been bundled away from the tarmac, had we refused to follow instructions. KWAM 1 even had his hand on the aircraft as if it was a motor vehicle, while he was trying to call someone in authority to ensure that he got on the flight, regardless of whether or not he was breaching aviation rules. The errors/inaction of the ground staff, led to the the somewhat bad ending of the incident. Do our airport personnel, even undergo proper training in international best practices at all? Surely, safety protocols on an airport tarmac should be strictly adhered to, with absolutely no exceptions.
KWAM 1: Matters Arising
1) The Over-100ml Flask
KWAM 1 appeared to be the cause of the ensuing altercation, between himself and airport ground staff/crew of Valuejet Airline. He was said to have attempted to board a Valuejet aircraft bound for Lagos from Abuja, with a flask which was not only bigger than 100ml, but opaque (allegedly containing an alcoholic beverage), contrary to aviation rules which require that any liquid to be carried on board an aircraft mustn’t exceed 100ml, and must be clearly displayed for inspection by aviation security officers or any other authorised person on demand. KWAM 1 was also alleged to have assaulted Valuejet Staff, by splashing the contents of his flask on them. One even wonders how he got that far, to the foot of the aircraft with the offending flask in hand. See the Nigerian Civil Aviation Security Programme and Annex 17 particularly Article 4.4 (Measures relating to passengers and their cabin baggage) to the Convention on International Civil Aviation Tenth Edition of 2017 (ICAO) & Section 45 (1)-(3) of the Civil Aviation Act 2022 (CAA).
ICAO recognises the airlines’ duty to protect their passengers, and obviously, this is done by proper screening of passengers, their cabin baggage, and even the luggage that goes into the hold of the aircraft. In the first place, KWAM 1 had no right to refuse to submit the offending flask for whatever inspection was required. Section 84 of the CAA recognises the fact that it is possible to carry a toxic substance onto an aircraft, which could prove to be a danger to passengers. Also see Section 35(1)(c) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022 (TPPA) Although the TPPA has similar or corresponding offences as the CAA with regard to aviation offences, it is obvious that this whole KWAM 1 fiasco had nothing to do with terrorism, but was a case of Bigmanism gone wrong. For instance, radioactive material could be in liquid form; it is hazardous to the health of people if they are exposed to it, while flammable liquids that can damage or destroy an aircraft and everyone on it, or prevent it from flying, are dangerous liquids that terrorists could attempt to sneak on board an aircraft. By virtue of Section 84(1)(c) of the CAA, a person convicted of placing dangerous substances on an aircraft which results in damaging or destroying it, or prevents it from flying, is liable to life imprisonment with no option of fine. It therefore, shows how important it is to adhere to the rules concerning screening of passengers, to prevent harmful things from making their way into an aircraft to cause havoc.
2) Assault In Lawal v State (2010) LPELR-4622(CA) per Joseph Shagbaor Ikyegh, JCA, the Court of Appeal used the definition of assault in Section 15 of the Robbery and Firearms Act thus:“…striking, touching, moving or otherwise applying force, including heat, light, electrical force, gas, odour, or any other substance or thing whatever, if applied in such a degree as to cause injury or personal discomfort to the person of another, either directly or indirectly without his consent….”. KWAM 1 was seen to not only be in a heated argument with the airline staff, intimidating them with “do
onIkepo BraIThwaITe
com onikepob@yahoo.com
“…. had KWAM 1 been at Heathrow Airport, London, or Dulles Airport, Washington DC, he could never have tried what he did at Abuja Airport. He would have been arrested….Have we considered the most valid defence? That Pilots have a limited amount of visibility directly under the aircraft when they are taxiing, because of the aircraft design, the height of the cockpit and their position of sitting in the aircraft?”
you know I am?”, but, he was also alleged to have splashed the contents of his flask on the ground staff and even Captain Ogoyi who had disembarked to de-escalate the tension, thereby causing them personal discomfort. See Section 264-265 of the Penal Code Act 1960 (PCA) on assault, and the punishment of one year imprisonment or a fine or both upon conviction.
3) Trespass and Nuisance
KWAM 1 also trespassed on the tarmac, contrary to Section 75(1) of the CAA, a misdemeanour that carries upon conviction, punishment of a fine of at least N500,000 or 6 months imprisonment or both. He stood in front of the Valuejet aircraft, obstructing it, in a bid to prevent it from moving (we don’t know if the Pilots were able to see this from the cockpit). This kind of nuisance or trespass is also contrary to Sections 473 and 459B of the PCA and Criminal Code Act (CCA) respectively, and attracts a punishment of 3 months imprisonment upon conviction under both laws and/or an unspecified fine under the PCA or N40 fine under the CCA. Additionally, Sections 472 and 459A of the PCA and CCA respectively, prohibit any person, inter alia, from obstructing, hindering or impeding the movement of an aircraft which is in motion; such a person is guilty of a misdemeanour and is liable upon conviction to 2 years imprisonment under both laws, or a fine or both under the PCA .
4) Hijacking
Be that as it may, KWAM 1’s actions do not fall within the purview of hijacking an aircraft as many have labelled his actions, at least, not within the provisions of Section 83(1) of the CAA, which provides inter alia that the offender must be ‘onboard’ the aircraft in service, to commit the offence of hijacking by threatening to or
seizing control of it. KWAM 1 wasn’t onboard the Valuejet aircraft, he was clearly outside it. Again, Section 34 of the TPPA requires an offender to be on board an aircraft which is in flight, seizing control or exercising control over it, to qualify as the offence of hijacking, which upon conviction, attracts life imprisonment, and also a N25 million fine by virtue of Section 83(1) of the CAA. Take Singapore’s Hijacking of Aircraft and Protection of Aircraft and International Airports Act 1978 (revised in 1996)(HAPAA), in Section 2(2)(a), it defines the period when an aircraft is in flight, inter alia, as from when its doors are closed following embarkation until when they are opened for disembarkation. But, just like the CAA, Section 3(1) of the HAPA also provides that the hijacker must be onboard the aircraft.
Remember the 1993 Nigerian aircraft hijack case? When 4 Youths, Richard Ogunderu, Kabir Adenuga, Benneth Oluwadaisi and Kenny Rasaq-Lawal, hijacked an Abuja bound Nigeria Airways flight, which they planned to divert to Frankfurt, Germany. Their demand was that Military Head of State, General Ibrahim Babangida, GCFR, resign and handover to Chief MKO Abiola, GCFR, or they would set the aircraft ablaze in 72 hours. The plane had to stop in Niamey, Niger Republic to refuel. There were 149 people aboard, 138 passengers and 11 crew members. After initial negotiations, 129 hostages were freed. Eventually, Niger Gendarmes stormed the aircraft. A female crew member lost her life during the rescue operation, while one of the hijackers was injured. The hijackers were tried and convicted in Niger, where they served out their prison sentences.
Unlike KWAM 1, the hijackers were on board
the Nigeria Airways flight; they seized control of the aircraft, altered its course, diverting it from going to Abuja and instead, taking it to Niamey. They also made demands, and threatened consequences if they weren’t met. Their actions fell within Sections 83(1) of the CAA and Section 34 of the TPPA. See the case of R v Abdul Hussain [1999] Crim LR 570 where the Defendants hijacked a plane going from Sudan to Jordan, and diverted it to London. They were found guilty of hijacking a plane, contrary to Section 1 of the Aviation Security Act 1982 Their appeals were however, subsequently allowed. Captain Oluranti Ogoyi & First Officer Ivan Iloba
Section 84(3)(a) of the CAA makes it an offence for anyone using a device to commit an act of violence against another at an aerodrome, which is likely to cause serious injury or death to another. The punishment for this under the CAA upon conviction, is a fine of at least N2 million or imprisonment of at least 5 years. Some have argued that this is what the Pilots of Valuejet did to KWAM 1, as they started taxiing on the runway while he and the ground staff were still standing and arguing by the aircraft. They believe that Captain Ogoyi couldn’t have got clearance from the Marshaller to move, when there was a commotion still going on by the aircraft. How do they know that, for a fact? Was the Control Tower, aware of the disturbance outside the aircraft? They could have cleared Captain Ogoyi, for takeoff. The investigation will reveal the response to this. Though, all reasonable people believe that the aircraft should not have moved with the commotion still going on around it, one cannot conclude that Captain Ogoyi intended to physically hurt KWAM 1 or anyone else, as such conclusion doesn’t make sense. KWAM 1 was in the midst of airport staff, standing quite close to each other, and he certainly wouldn’t have been the only casualty. Again, why would the Pilots want to hurt or kill fellow Valuejet staff or airport security, by running into them with the aircraft?
Someone asked if provocation could be a viable defence for the Pilots. In Sunday Jackson v State (2025) LPELR-80692(SC) per Mohammed Baba Idris JSC, the Supreme Court held that the plea of provocation wasn’t exculpatory, and was only a mitigating defence that could reduce punishment from murder to manslaughter. Provocation involves a loss of self control, based on the action of the adversary. Loss of self control, is certainly not expected from a Pilot-in-Command or any Pilot for that matter, while it is unlikely that any reasonable person would lose their self control, based on an issue such as that of KWAM 1 and his Bigmanism at the airport that day. Pilots are trained to manage stress, and make unimpeachable decisions, even under stress; they are also trained, to manage their emotions.
So, what could it have been?
Have we considered the most valid defence? That Pilots have a limited amount of visibility directly under the aircraft when they are taxiing, because of the aircraft design, the height of the cockpit and their position of sitting in the aircraft? And, this is why when Pilots start to taxi, they do so at a slow speed until they reach the deserted area, the runway, to take off. This allows them to minimise risks and react, if the need arises. This appears to be a more reasonable and tenable explanation of what happened, on the part of Captain Ogoyi and FO Iloba. That maybe the Pilots, couldn't see under the plane. In any event, no rational person would remain beneath or by an aircraft, after the doors have been shut for take off.
Conclusion
KWAM 1 rendered a public apology, for his ‘ultimate’ misbehaviour, particularly as a titled Chief of Ijebuland. His predecessor-in-title, Otunba Michael Olasubomi Balogun, CON, the former Olori Òmò Òba Akilè Ijebu, would certainly not have been caught dead in that kind of public altercation with anyone; he comported himself with the dignity that his title required. And, if the late Awujalè of Ijebuland, Oba S. K. Adetona, GCON, for reasons best known to himself, had conferred KWAM 1 with Otunba Balogun’s title even before his burial, to the chagrin of some Ijebuites, KWAM 1 has succeeded in somewhat ridiculing the confidence reposed in him by the late Awujalè, less than a month after his death, with his reprehensible behaviour.
KWAM 1’s apology was probably insincere but necessary, since he had behaved odiously, and this had resulted in his condemnation by some right thinking members of the public. The statement of the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, SAN, showing that what is good for the goose, is also good for the gander, would have also been a motivating factor for his hollow show of remorse. If the Pilots were suspended pending the outcome of the investigation, KWAM 1 has also received no-fly punishment from the Minister.
For those who have condemned the Pilots without hearing the outcome of the investigation, they are pre-empting the investigation, and drawing conclusions without all the facts. Let’s wait and see what happens.
Fact
s
The dispute which resulted in this appeal, involved ownership of a State land known as Plot 134 Oromineke Layout, also designated as Nos. 6 and 6A Wogu Street, Port Harcourt. The land was originally leased in 1962 to Mr Arua Kalu, who subsequently transferred his interest via a Power of Attorney to Mr Frederick Nwosu Iheme, the predecessor-in-title to the Appellants. Mr Iheme developed and occupied the property, and by a 1972 Will, he bequeathed the land to the Appellants. In 1972, the Rivers State Government purportedly cancelled the lease via the State Lands (Cancellation of Leases) Edict, and in 1986, sold the property to the 4th Respondent. The 4th Respondent thereafter, attempted to take possession of the property by bringing down some structures in the property, prompting the Appellants to commence an action for trespass and other reliefs against the Respondents in 1982. Owing to the delays the suit suffered, parties agreed to dispense with the need to call oral evidence and proceeded based on documentary evidence and written addresses. The trial court delivered judgement on 2nd April, 2012 and found that the State Lands (Cancellation of Leases) Edict had been declared void by the Supreme Court. Thus, the court held that the 1986 sale to the 4th Respondent was null and void. The trial court also found that the irrevocable power of Attorney did not vest on the Appellants valid legal title because there was nothing showing that the consent of the Governor was obtained either prior or subsequent to its execution as provided for in the Lease Agreement. Nonetheless, the trial court entered judgement in favour of the Appellants, with respect to the claims for trespass and perpetual injunction against the 4th Respondent only.
Dissatisfied with the findings of the trial court on the invalidity of their title, the Appellants appealed to the Court of Appeal. The appellate court, however, questioned the procedure adopted at the trial court and held it to be improper. The Court of Appeal therefore, set aside the judgement of the trial court and dismissed all the claims of the Appellants for lack of proof. This prompted the Appellants’ appeal to the Supreme Court.
Preliminary Objection of the 1st, 2nd and 4th Respondent
The 1st, 2nd and 4th Respondent raised preliminary objection to the hearing of the appeal, on the ground that it is purely academic. They argued that the subjectmatter of the appeal, being the 40-year building lease granted to Mr Arua Kalu in September 1962 and commencing on 1st January, 1962, had expired on 1st January 2002. According to Counsel for the 1st and Respondents, the appeal no longer presents any live issue and is therefore moot.
Arguments
Counsel for the 1st and 2nd Respondent, in support of the preliminary objection, argued that jurisdiction is the lifeblood of adjudication and that where a court lacks jurisdiction, its decision is a nullity. He contended that the appeal does not disclose any live issue against the Respondents, because the original lease for 40 years granted to Mr Arua Kalu had expired without renewal. Counsel further argued that although there was a live issue in 1986 when the action was commenced, by 2012 and 2015 when the lower courts delivered their respective decisions, the lease had already expired in 2002, thereby rendering the matter academic. Counsel also submitted that the issue of jurisdiction can be raised at any time, even for the first time before the Supreme Court. And that although a court may have jurisdiction at the commencement of a suit, it may lose it during the proceedings due to certain occurrences, as is the case in this appeal. He therefore, urged the court to dismiss the appeal.
In response, Counsel for the Appellants argued that the limitation period for a suit halts during the pendency of a suit. Counsel submitted that the Appellants’ rights arose under the Land Use Act, which must be construed strictly against the 1st to 3rd Respondent. The 1st to 3rd Respondent, being public officers, cannot rely on limitation clauses
In the Supreme Court of Nigeria Holden at abuja
On Friday, the 17th day of January, 2025
Before their lordships
uwani Musa abba aji adamu Jauro Obande Festus Ogbuinya Habeeb adewale Olumuyiwa abiru
Mohammed Baba Idris Justices, Supreme Court SC/741/2015
Between
1. Mrs dorcas ada Iheme
2. Oguzie Iheme
3. anthony Iheme
4. aguguo Iheme aPPeLLaNTS
And
1. attorney-General, Rivers State
2. Permanent Secretary, Lands division Governor’s Office, Rivers State
3. Rivers State Housing and Property development authority
4. Mr Francis akanni Tella ReSPONdeNTS
(Lead Judgement delivered by Honourable Obande Festus Ogbuinya, JSC)
to shield their unlawful acts from judicial scrutiny. Counsel argued further that a live issue remains in the case, as the expiration of the lease occurred during the pendency of the suit. And that the alleged illegal actions of the Respondents, as well as the claim for a perpetual injunction, remain unresolved. He urged the court to dismiss the objection.
Courts Judgement and Rationale
In resolving the preliminary objection, the Supreme Court relied on its previous decision in PLATEAU STATE v A-G., FED (2006) 3 NWLR (PT. 967) 346 AT 419, where His Lordship, Tobi, JSC (as he then was), explained the issue of law succinctly thus: “A suit is
“An academic question is drained of any live issue, which engages the adjudicative attention of the courts….the doctrine of mootness postulates that a court cannot exercise its jurisdiction where issues presented for adjudication are no longer alive, or when the parties’ cognisable interest in the outcome had vaporised or ceased to exist”
31st December, 2001, the reversionary interest returned to the Rivers State Government. Although a live issue existed at the commencement of the Appellants’ action in 1986, there was no longer a live issue by the time the lower courts delivered their judgements in 2012 and 2015. The expiration of the lease in 2001, which left the Appellants without any enforceable rights over the property, constituted a fundamental change in circumstances. This change affected their interest in the disputed property, notwithstanding that it was the subject of ongoing litigation (lis pendens).
The Apex Court held that it is a hallowed principle of law, known for its antiquity, that a court of law may be clothed with the jurisdiction to entertain a matter at its commencement, but, may be drained of jurisdiction in the course of the proceedings owing to any radical change in the circumstances over the case. Indubitably, to equip the court with the requisite jurisdiction, a live issue or an actual controversy must exist between the parties from the commencement of an action, and throughout the gestation period of the lawsuit. The Supreme Court held that the expiration of the lease in 2001, during the pendency of the Appellants’ suit, emasculated its lifespan, rendered it lifeless and drained the appeal of any live issue. Thus, even if the appeal is allowed, the judgement of the trial court, which was against the Appellants on the basis that the transfer of interest in the lease was without the mandatory consent of the Governor of Rivers State, will continue to haunt the Appellants within the four walls of academic dispute.
The Supreme Court, in distinguishing the case of CHIADI v AGGO (2018) 2 NWLR (PT. 1603) 175 relied upon by Counsel for the Appellants from the facts of this case, held that in the Chiadi’s case, the lease expired on the 30th April, 1971, and it was not renewed. However, the property in dispute, which had been declared an abandoned property, was released to the Appellant in that case, Mrs Grace Chiadi, by the Rivers State Government vide Rivers State Government Notice No. 451 published in the Rivers State Official Gazette No 56 Vol. 4 of 1st November, 1974. The return of the property to the Appellant in the Chiadi’s case creates a significant difference between it and the instant appeal. Therefore, the facts of the present appeal not being on all fours with the case relied upon by Counsel for the Appellants, made it impossible for the court to adopt the principle of stare decisis.
In conclusion, the Supreme Court held that there was no live issue in the appeal that will bestow a proprietary right or benefit on the Appellants, which the appeal seeks to address. It follows that the Supreme Court is not clothed with the requisite jurisdiction, to entertain an academic appeal. The preliminary objection was thereby, upheld.
Dissenting Opinion of Honourable Habeeb Adewale Olumuyiwa Abiru, JSC
academic where it is merely theoretical, makes empty sound, and of no practical utilitarian value to the Plaintiff, even if judgement is given in his favour. A suit is academic, if it is not related to practical situations of human nature and humanity”. The Supreme Court held further that it is a settled law that a court is divested of the necessary jurisdiction, to adjudicate over an academic dispute which is a monopoly of those in the ivory towers. This is so, even if its determination will enrich the legal jurisprudence. An academic question is drained of any live issue, which engages the adjudicative attention of the courts.
The Supreme Court, relying on the decision in SOUTH ATLANTIC PET. LTD v MIN., PET. RESOURCES (2023) 7 NWLR (PT. 1882) 135 AT 166, held that the doctrine of mootness postulates that a court cannot exercise its jurisdiction where issues presented for adjudication are no longer alive, or when the parties’ cognisable interest in the outcome had vaporised or ceased to exist. In this case, the parties are in agreement that the building lease granted on 14th March, 1962, expired on 31st January, 2001 because it commenced retrospectively on 1st January, 1962. A thorough review of the building lease also revealed that there was nowhere in the lease where the original lessee, Mr Arua Kalu was given a right or option of renewal. In essence, after
His Lordship dissented from the majority decision on the preliminary objection, and opined that it was wrong for the lower court to have completely ignored the complaints of the Appellants, which were essentially against the trial court’s findings on the validity of the Appellants’ title to the subject property, when it proceeded to set aside the entire judgement of the trial court, including portions not appealed against. His Lordship also opined that the judgement of the trial court was based on the tort of trespass; and trespass is a violation of possessory rights, an unlawful interference with exclusive possession. Thus, the fact that a person does not have valid title does not necessarily affect their right of possession to the land. The expiration of the lease agreement in 2001, could not and did not affect the substance of the judgement of the trial court. Consequently, the contention of Counsel for the 1st and 2nd Respondent that the live issue for determination in the appeal disappeared with the expiration of the lease agreement, was incorrect. His Lordship found no merit in the preliminary objection.
Appeal Dismissed by a Majority of 4:1.
Representation
Ledum Mitee for the Appellant.
F. G Warmate for the 1st and 2nd Respondent. D. Tella Attoni for the 4th Respondent No appearance for the 3rd Respondent.
Reported by Optimum Publishers Limited, Publishers of the Nigerian Monthly Law Reports (NMLR)(An affiliate of Babalakin & Co.)
L-R: Head, Creativity and Innovation Management Unit, MAN, Ms Seyi Adegbite; IP Litigation Lawyer, Mr Rowland Uzoechi; Company Secretary, Unilever Nigeria Plc, Mr Peter Dada; Assistant Director, Inspectorate & Compliance Department, SON, Engr Dona Ogbozor; Director-General of MAN, Mr Segun Ajayi-Kadir; Mr Gbenga Biobaku, Chief Superintendent of Customs, Ms Lydia Nemahuan; Assistant Director, Investigation & Enforcement Directorate, NAFDAC, Yohanna, Mr Kunle Ojo and Ms Anita Ezike
Stories by Steve Aya
A Federal Capital Territory High Court has fined Zenith Bank and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) N85 million, for unlawfully freezing a customer’s account based on an invalid Magistrate Court order. Justice S. U. Bature also ordered the Bank to immediately unfreeze the account, and issue a public apology to the affected firm, Abhulimen & Co.
The court ruled that Zenith Bank acted negligently by freezing the account located at its Maitama Branch without notifying the customer, violating banking regulations. Justice Bature criticised the Bank for relying on an order
from a Nasarawa State Magistrate court, which lacked jurisdiction over banking matters.
The case (FCT/HC/ CV/2194/2024) was filed by Paulyn Abhulimen, SAN, after discovering her firm’s account had been restricted in early
2024. The Bank claimed it acted on a Police request, citing a Mararaba Gurku Magistrate Court order, a justification the Judge dismissed as legally flawed.
Justice Bature emphasised that Magistrate Courts lack authority to freeze Bank accounts, as such matters
fall under the Federal High Court’s exclusive jurisdiction. He condemned Zenith Bank’s legal team for failing to recognise this, calling their compliance with the invalid order "unjustifiable".
The Judge further faulted the Bank for not informing
Abhulimen before freezing the account, calling it a breach of duty. "The failure to notify the Claimant amounts to negligence", the Judge stated, adding that the indefinite freeze without due process, was unlawful.
The court declared the
Nasarawa Magistrate Court’s order void and ruled that the Police and Bank acted beyond their powers. Justice Bature stressed that freezing accounts without a competent court’s approval, violates customer-banker trust.
Nigeria's aviation authorities have taken unprecedented action against music icon, K1 de Ultimate, following a disruptive incident while trying to board a Valuejet flight last week. The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has escalated its response to the high-profile altercation involving Fuji music icon, Wasiu
Ayinde Anifowoshe aka King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, K1 de Ultimate and KWAM 1.
In an unprecedented move, the regulatory body has formally requested the AttorneyGeneral of the Federation and the Inspector-General of Police, to initiate a criminal investigation into the musician’s alleged misconduct while trying
The law firm of Gbenga Biobaku & Co. (GBC), in collaboration with the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), successfully hosted an industry workshop themed “Counterfeit Threats and Intellectual Property Protection: Ensuring Brand Integrity in Nigeria’s Manufacturing Industry”. The event was held at MAN House, Ikeja, and drew key stakeholders from Nigeria’s regulatory, legal, and manufacturing communities. The workshop addressed the rising threats of counterfeit and substandard goods in the Nigerian market and
explored collaborative, legal, and technological strategies to safeguard intellectual property and brand integrity.
In his welcome address, Mr Segun Ajayi-Kadir, mni, Director General of MAN, emphasised the urgency of coordinated efforts between regulators and manufacturers. This was followed by opening remarks from Mr Gbenga Biobaku, Senior Partner at GBC, who stressed the economic and reputational risks posed by counterfeiting.
Keynote presentations were delivered by Mr Peter Dada, Company Secretary at Unilever Nigeria Plc; Mr Kunle Ojo, Assistant Director at
NAFDAC; and Mr Wole Tejuoso, Partner and Head of IP Department at GBC. Their addresses highlighted enforcement gaps, regulatory frameworks, and the vital role of intellectual property in combating counterfeiting.
to board a Valuejet flight on August 5, 2025.
The incident, which occurred on Flight VK201, reportedly involved actions by the veteran artiste that violated critical aviation safety protocols. While specific details remain undisclosed pending investigation, insider accounts suggest the altercation disrupted standard operational procedures, prompting immediate intervention from flight crew and airport security. The NCAA has classified the matter as a potential breach of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs) 2023.
In a sternly worded letter to law enforcement agencies, the NCAA emphasised its zero-
tolerance stance towards behaviour that compromises flight safety. “No individual, regardless of social standing, is exempt from aviation laws”, stated the NCAA’s spokesperson, referencing potential penalties ranging from heavy fines to imprisonment under Sections 40 and 41 of the Nig. CARs for endangering aircraft operations.
Adding fuel to the controversy, NCAA Director General, Captain Chris Najomo has issued an advisory to all domestic airlines, urging K1 de Ultimate’s temporary placement on a “No-Fly List” pending investigation outcomes.
This measure, modelled after global aviation
security protocols, would mark the first time Nigeria’s entertainment industry has faced such severe travel restrictions over an onboard incident. Valuejet Airways has yet to release an official statement, but aviation analysts confirm the airline is cooperating fully with investigators. Industry sources reveal that cockpit crew filed an “unruly passenger” report, a rare designation typically reserved for extreme cases of misconduct. The incident has reignited debates about celebrity privilege and accountability, with social media divided between fans defending the musician, and aviation professionals stressing the non-negotiable nature of in-flight safety.
A 44-year-old suspected serial killer and gang leader, Wasiu Akinwande, popularly known as Olori Esho, has been remanded in Kirikiri Custodial Centre by an Ogba Chief Magistrate’s Court, over alleged involvement in multiple murders, unlawful arms possession, and a disturbing cache of international passports. The Chief Magistrate, Mobolaji Tanimola, declined to take the Defendant’s plea,
and ordered his remand pending legal advice from the Lagos State Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The case was adjourned to September 4, for further Akinwande,proceedings. who has been described by investigators as the ringleader of a violent criminal network operating across Lagos for over a decade, faces an 11-count charge bordering on murder, attempted murder,
illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, grievous bodily harm, and possession of stolen international passports, including those of several foreign nationals. The offences were allegedly committed between 2009 and 2025, mostly within Mushin, Idi-Araba, Surulere, and Fadeyi areas ofPoliceLagos.Prosecutor, Nosa Uhumwangho, told the court that the accused had
been on the run for years, and was finally tracked to Alagbado, Lagos, following intelligence-led operations. Items reportedly recovered from him include nine AK47 rifles, two pump-action guns, two locally-made pistols, one K2 assault rifle, 70 rounds of live 5.56mm ammunition, 57 cartridges, and three walkie-talkies. A poisonous dagger, allegedly used in cult-related violence, was also recovered.
PROF M ike O zekh OM e, san
Introduction
The last installment of this treatise covered the following themes: Understanding Digital identity in the Nigerian context; the universality of rights in a technological age; digital rights as human rights; data sovereignty; the impact of the NPDA 2023; the challenges of enforcement and their implications on sovereignty. This week’s feature covers a similarly (albeit all-inclusive) field, namely the moral foundation (human dignity) of identity and data rights. Enjoy.
This behaviour undermines both national policy directives and the financial sustainability of local data centres. More critically, it exposes national data to external jurisdictions with differing legal standards and potentially conflicting geopolitical interests. The gap between infrastructure availability and institutional compliance reveals a deeper systemic challenge: without coordinated enforcement, investment in local data infrastructure will remain under-leveraged, and Nigeria’s vision for digital sovereignty will be continuously compromised. In these scenarios, enforcing the NDPA’s localisation requirements becomes not just a legal matter but an infrastructural and fiscal challenge. Without domestically controlled data centres, robust encryption standards, and a trained pool of cybersecurity experts, the intent of the NDPA may remain aspirational rather than operational.
Moreover, the public sector’s own data practices often fall short of the standards set out in the Act. Many government websites and portals lack secure connections or clear privacy notices. In some cases, sensitive biometric data, such as that collected during national identity registration or elections, has been stored using foreign cloud solutions. This contradiction between legal mandates and actual practice reveals a deeper institutional issue: data sovereignty cannot be legislated into existence without sustained investment in infrastructure, skills, and public accountability. For the NDPA to succeed, it must be accompanied by a national digital policy agenda that promotes domestic technological capacity, public education, and inter-agency coordination.
At the same time, the issue of data sovereignty is not only legal or technical, it is deeply political. In a global context marked by rising digital nationalism, economic protectionism, and cyber geopolitics, Nigeria’s ability to control its data is increasingly linked to its ability to shape its future. Sovereign control over digital resources determines the government’s capacity to develop homegrown artificial intelligence solutions, improve governance through data-driven policies, and protect citizens from foreign exploitation or digital manipulation. Data sovereignty also has profound implications for public trust. Citizens are more likely to engage with digital services when they believe their data is protected by domestic laws and institutions they can understand and
access. Sovereignty, in this sense, becomes not only about independence but about democratic legitimacy and transparency. In sum, the NDPA 2023 is a critical and necessary milestone in Nigeria’s digital evolution. It lays the legal foundation for asserting national control over data, protecting citizens' privacy, and fostering digital trust. Yet, its success will depend on more than legislation. It will require institutional coordination, infrastructural investment, regulatory vigilance, and a cultural shift in how both the state and the private sector treat data as not just an economic commodity, but a national asset whose governance is inseparable from Nigeria’s sovereignty and democratic future.
At the heart of digital identity systems and data governance frameworks lies a central ethical question: how do these technologies reflect, reinforce, or undermine the inherent dignity of the individuals they claim to serve? In a society governed by liberal democratic values, dignity is not aspirational, it is foundational. Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution recognises this explicitly in Section 34, which guarantees every individual the right to dignity of person, freedom from inhuman or degrading treatment, and respect for bodily and mental integrity. However, in the digital sphere, these rights are increasingly mediated through platforms, algorithms, and databases. When systems of identity management and data processing fail to uphold transparency, consent, fairness, and accountability, they do not simply create inefficiencies, they risk dehumanising citizens and violating their constitutional protections.
A core hypothesis, therefore, is that the design and deployment of digital identity systems must be judged not only by their technical functionality, but by the extent to
“Digital identity systems that disregard users' lived realities, illiteracy, geographical remoteness, limited documentation fail not only operationally, but ethically. When an individual is unable to access healthcare, education, or a mobile phone SIM because of an identity system that denies them recognition, the harm is not just administrative, it is existential”
which they preserve or erode human dignity in practice. In Nigeria, this hypothesis is tested daily. The enforcement of the National Identification Number (NIN) registration process between 2020 and 2022, offers a vivid case in point. Introduced to centralise and standardise digital identity verification across multiple government services, the NIN system aimed to enhance service delivery, improve security, and reduce fraud. Yet the process of enrolment revealed deep systemic inequalities. Across the country, elderly citizens, persons with disabilities, rural dwellers, and economically marginalised groups were forced to queue for long hours often under harsh weather conditions just to be enrolled. Many were turned away due to the absence of documents that the State had not effectively provided access to in the first place, such as birth certificates or formal addresses. These were not isolated incidents, but widespread patterns that occurred during a government-imposed deadline under threat of SIM card deactivation. What was intended as a nation-building exercise, quickly became a scenario of institutional exclusion.
Beyond the logistical challenges, this scenario exposed a deeper moral failure. Digital identity systems that disregard users' lived realities, illiteracy, geographical remoteness, limited documentation fail not only operationally, but ethically. When an individual is unable to access healthcare, education, or a mobile phone SIM because of an identity system that denies them recognition, the harm is not just administrative, it is existential. The experience of being unacknowledged by the state in the digital domain replicates and reinforces social marginalisation in the physical world. In effect, technology that is not inclusive by design risks perpetuating systemic injustice under the veneer of modernisation.
More troubling still is the rise of algorithmic decision-making in critical domains without meaningful oversight. Financial technology platforms in Nigeria increasingly use automated systems to assess creditworthiness, assign risk scores, or determine eligibility for loans. In some cases, these systems scrape data from users’ mobile phones, social media activity, and contact lists without fully informed consent. Similarly, predictive policing
tools and surveillance technologies, often deployed under national security pretexts, are opaque and rarely subjected to independent audits. The decisions these systems make can have life-altering consequences, denial of credit, targeting by law enforcement, exclusion from employment yet they often lack mechanisms for appeal, redress, or even explanation. The individuals affected are left without recourse, effectively stripped of their agency in processes that directly impact their lives.
The Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) 2023 makes a commendable attempt to address some of these challenges. Section 35 of the Act grants individuals the right to object to decisions made solely through automated processing, especially when such decisions have legal or similarly significant effects. This is a step toward restoring some level of agency in an increasingly automated world. However, the Act stops short of requiring algorithmic explainability, a crucial safeguard in a digital age where decisions made by machines are often inscrutable. Without mandatory transparency in how algorithms are developed, trained, and deployed, accountability remains elusive, and human dignity remains vulnerable. To genuinely uphold dignity in the digital age, Nigeria’s governance model must go beyond the prohibition of harm and move toward the empowerment of digital agency. This means creating systems that do not merely avoid discrimination but proactively accommodate the diverse realities of Nigerian citizens across gender, class, ethnicity, geography, and ability. For instance, identity systems must include offline verification options for rural dwellers without internet access, accommodate alternative forms of documentation, and be available in local languages. Data governance policies must ensure that consent is not just a checkbox but a comprehensible and meaningful process, particularly for populations with limited digital literacy.
Furthermore, digital inclusion must be approached not only from a technological standpoint but as a human rights imperative. Institutions must embed ethical standards in every stage of system design, implementation, and evaluation. This includes engaging communities before deploying systems that affect them, conducting regular impact assessments with a focus on marginalised groups, and establishing independent oversight bodies with the authority to investigate harms and mandate reforms. The NDPC, created under the NDPA, has the potential to play this role if empowered with adequate resources, technical capacity, and legal independence.
Ultimately, digital dignity is inseparable from democratic governance. In a society where data increasingly shapes decisions about who gets access to public services, jobs, or even basic recognition, data rights must be treated as an extension of civil rights. The question is no longer whether Nigeria will digitise, but whether it will do so in a way that enhances justice, participation, and human flourishing. If human dignity is not protected in the design and operation of digital systems, then digitisation, no matter how well-funded or technologically advanced risks becoming yet another mechanism of exclusion and disempowerment. (To be continued).
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
“The end of law is not to abolish or restrain, but to preserve and enlarge freedom. For in all the states of created beings capable of law, where there is no law, there is no freedom.”(John Locke)
A Case Study of Contractual Disputes in the Nigerian Entertainment Industry Introduction
You may recall that sometime in 2017, G-Worldwide, Kizz Daniel’s (fka Kiss Daniel) former record label slammed a lawsuit against the artiste, for allegedly breaching a 7-year recording and management contract deal. G-Worldwide was the label under which Kizz Daniel recorded hit songs such as “Woju”, “Raba”, “Woju (Remix)” featuring Davido and Tiwa Savage, “Laye”, “Good Time” and in fact, his debut album, “New Era”. His run with the label was a match made in heaven, as they churned out several hit singles back to back. However, this relationship faced a strain, which we intend to digest below, with recommendations on how upcoming artistes can avoid certain contractual disputes that may have far reaching effects on their career.
Background of the Dispute
G-Worldwide (“GWW”) accused Kizz Daniel of infringing on their intellectual property by using the stage name "Kiss Daniel" and performing songs from his "New Era" and "Evolution" albums, which they claimed were produced under the contract. The label therefore, sought an injunction restraining Kizz Daniel from performing the copyrighted songs recorded under the label, and using the stage name “Kiss Daniel” which GWW had trademarked. Also, they claimed damages for breach of contract, contract exit fees, infringement on intellectual property rights and other incurred costs amounting to about N500 million.
Kizz Daniel’s alleged offence was that he had illegally formed his own independent label, ‘FLY BOI I.N.C”, appointed a new Talent Manager, negotiated and entered into performance deals and used the stage name ‘Kiss Daniel’ without the consent and permission of GWW, whilst still under contract with GWW.
GWW’s position was that the 7-year contract signed by Kizz Daniel was yet to lapse, and there was never a time when the contract was reviewed to enable him terminate the agreement prior to the expiration of the contractual term.
Kizz Daniel in his defence, denied the allegations and stated that he had properly terminated the contractual agreement, and the label was attempting to exploit him. He also claimed that the stage name “Kiss Daniel” was not the intellectual property of the record label, as he had been using the name prior to the signing of his contractual agreement with GWW.
The issues for determination before the court include:
1.Whether Kiss Daniel is not in breach of the terms of his contract with GWW, by using the trade marked name “Kiss” without the consent and permission of GWW?
2.Whether Kiss Daniel is not in breach of the terms of his contract with GWW, by negotiating and entering into performance deals without the consent and permission of GWW?
3.Whether Kiss Daniel is not in beach of the terms of his contract with GWW, by performing copyrighted songs in contravention of the agreement with GWW?
4.Whether Kiss Daniel is not in breach of the contractual terms, by terminating the agreement without a review of the terms of the agreement?
The first issue to be considered is Pacta sunt servanda - sanctity of contracts; the principle that denotes that agreements must be kept /upheld. It is trite that parties who willingly enter into an agreement must respect the terms of the contracts and abide by its provisions, both the consideration / accruing benefits and the duties / obligations. In the entertainment industry, this principle means that contracts involving artists, production companies, distributors, and other parties, are generally upheld by the courts. Hence, a party that willingly entered into an agreement, cannot decide to deviate from its terms without financial consequences by way of costs and damages.
To lay some foundation, there are certain rules of drafting that ought to be followed in every contract, these include: clarity and precision, certainty of parties, certainty of duration, certainty of terms (of the contract), governing law and dispute resolution etcetera. These are drafting principles that must be followed to avoid ambiguity, and to ensure that the intention of the parties is adequately conveyed in the legal document.
Now to the dispute, and this analysis is to an extent
This article by James abati revisits the 2017 lawsuit of G-Worldwide (GWW) record label against Music artiste, Kizz daniel, accusing him of infringing on their intellectual property, claiming damages and other incurred costs amounting to about N500 million. He makes recommendations on how upcoming artistes can avoid contractual disputes, firstly, by employing the services of a competent entertainment Lawyer from the get-go, to protect their interest
a hypothetical analysis of the legal issues, as the contract between Kiss Daniel and GWW was not and is not available in the public domain, possibly due to the confidentiality provisions in the agreement; all the available information on the case, are by way of public dissemination by the Nigerian media.
Firstly, to the issue of the trademarked name “Kiss”, we should be aware that: “a trademark is a distinctive sign, design, or expression that legally identifies and distinguishes the products or services of one party from those of others. It serves as a form of intellectual property, protecting a brand's identity and helping consumers easily recognise and associate a product with its source”. As a record label, GWW took the active step of registering “Kiss” as a trademark and therefore, owns the right to the intellectual property. It was however, an issue for judicial determination, being a question of whether Kizz Daniel who had been using the name before signing to the label but without taking active steps to protect the brand identity, had a more established right than GWW who did what he failed to do, in a legally binding manner. The common law defence of prior use – if the case had been brought to a lawful conclusion, would have been weighed against the equitable right of registration of the trademark bestowed upon GWW. There is yet to be a settled case law on this issue, however, while common law rights based on prior use are important, registration offers a more comprehensive and robust legal framework for trademark protection. Hence, use of the name “Kiss” became permissible only under the consent, permission or licence of GWW, the owner of the intellectual property.
Secondly, there is an allegation that Kizz Daniel and his management negotiated and entered into performance deals, without the consent and permission of GWW. If the contract that existed between the two parties stipulated that performance agreements required the consent or permission of the label, or if it granted the label the sole right to negotiate and enter into
“Entertainers, be it, musical artistes, actors, sports men and women, producers, directors or film makers, need to be conscious of the agreements they enter into, and there is only one way to safeguard their interest in this regard, brief a Lawyer, and not just any Lawyer, an entertainment Lawyer whose area of specialisation is entertainment”
such deals on behalf of Kizz Daniel, then a breach existed. However, if the contract was silent on this issue and solely limited to production, recording, distribution, releases, promotion and profit sharing, then Kizz Daniel acted well within his right to negotiate and enter into performance deals independent of the label. This is a common occurrence in the entertainment industry, depending on the terms of the contract between artiste and label; management agreements are known to exist independent of record label deals. Artiste Managers under the terms of their own contract, are usually charged with the responsibility of legal and financial administration / management. Thus, performance agreements falling under this overhead may sometimes be within their purview, depending of the agreement(s) entered into by the artiste.
Thirdly, on the issue of performing copyrighted songs, this is a very dicey issue, and we will dissect it with statutory provisions. Section 2(1) of the Copyright Act in Nigeria stipulates that:
“Subject to this Act, the following works shall be eligible for copyright
• literary works ;
• musical works ;
• artistic works ;
• audiovisual works ;
• sound recordings ; and • broadcasts.”
Section 4 of the Act states that: “Eligibility for copyright under this Act shall not require any formality”. Section 5 goes further to confer copyright by virtue of nationality (Citizenship of Nigeria) or place of habitual residence (Nigeria), while Section 6 confers copyright by virtue of country of origin, that is, a musical work first published in Nigeria.
With the provisions of the Copyright Act, it is evident that the copyright of musical works recorded or released by Kiss Daniel, as he then was, belongs to him by virtue of his nationality, place of habitual residence and country of origin of his musical works. The salient question that requires a judicial determination, is thus: whether the provisions of the Copyright Act can be derogated from, by way of contractual agreement. The answer to this is yes, copyright can be transferred or conferred by way of an assignment or licence. In the instance of Kizz Daniel, if the record label agreement with GWW included a copyright clause assigning the copyright of musical works recorded and published under the label, then such musical works belong to the label. This is the standard all across the world in entertainment related agreements, and parties are bound by it. On this issue, GWW had an upper hand. Finally, on the issue of terminating the record label agreement without reviewing the terms of the contract, the issue to be considered is
whether the contract contained a termination clause. A termination clause is an essential part of a contract; it can either be as of right (without cause) or with cause, based on an alleged infringement. A contractual agreement without a termination clause is inherently flawed, and will not be upheld during adjudication of legal disputes. The reason is this; an unwilling party cannot be bound by an agreement that they no longer wish to enforce. A contract without a termination clause, can be vitiated by relying on the principle of unfair contractual terms. For emphasis, unfair contract terms are clauses in a contract that are considered to be particularly harsh, one-sided, or unconscionable, and which unfairly disadvantage one party. These terms can limit the rights and obligations of one party while excessively favouring the other. A contract stipulating that the agreement cannot be terminated without meeting certain conditions or by paying exorbitant / excessive exit fees may generally be considered to be unfair, particularly in light of allegations of breaches by the terminating party. Based on the foregoing, it is yet to be seen whether the contract between Kizz Daniel and GWW was unfair, but for educational purposes, this is the position of the law.
Entertainers, be it, musical artistes, actors, sports men and women, producers, directors or film makers, need to be conscious of the agreements they enter into, and there is only one way to safeguard their interest in this regard, brief a Lawyer, and not just any Lawyer, an entertainment Lawyer whose area of specialisation is entertainment.
In the initial stages, entertainers are thrilled by the prospect of signing a new deal, making money, entering the spotlight and achieving their dreams, that they do not foresee the inherent dangers in signing an agreement that is flawed ab initio. The cost of getting a Lawyer to review the agreement and safeguard their interest is minute, compared to the legal costs associated with briefing a Lawyer in the event of a contractual dispute.
For instance, in the case of Kizz Daniel, he had to procure the services of a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Dr Olisa Agbakoba, to represent his interest in the lawsuit. The attendant cost associated with briefing a SAN is relatively high, when compared to briefing an entertainment Lawyer to review the contractual agreement governing an entertainment deal. An average of N30 million to N60 million would have been expended on defending the suit. This could have been avoided, for a suit that was eventually resolved by changing “Kiss” Daniel’s stage name to “Kizz” Daniel. Hopefully, lessons have been learnt and young talents looking to venture into the entertainment world, will learn to call a Lawyer, or better still, call Saul.
The bond of brotherhood between Nigeria and Ghana, is old and deep. But, that chord of friendship has run thin a couple of times; first, in 1969, when the Government of Ghana issued the aliens Compliance Order expelling many allegedly undocumented West african migrants, including many yorubas from Nigeria, on grounds of economic decline, and secondly, between 1983 and 1985, when Nigerians across the country protested the ubiquitous presence of Ghanaians in Nigeria and the aphorism ‘Ghana Must Go’ came into Nigerian vocabulary. although it was diplomatically resolved, later events showed that the scars have remained, and Ghanaians don’t seem to have forgotten or forgiven. What appears inexplicable is the current angst by Ghanaians against Nigerian nationals in Ghana, asking Nigerians, particularly the Igbos this time, to leave their country willy-nilly. This negative reaction against Nigerians isn’t limited to Ghana; it also happened in South africa and the united arab emirates.Prosper Nwachukwu and chukwuemeka Eze, in this discourse, x-ray the complex and sensitive issues at play, even tracing the origins and history of xenophobia
“Nigeria Must Go!”: Unpacking the Tension, Truth, and Way Forward Prosper Nwachukwu
Introduction
Protesters in Ghana took to the streets between 26 and 29 July 2025, to demand the mass expulsion of Nigerians. The slogan “Nigeria Must Go!”, featured prominently on placards and in media headlines. These demonstrations led by a vocal minority ac-
cused Nigerian residents of economic dominance, criminal activities, and cultural insensitivity.
For many Nigerians living in Ghana, like me, these protests have been shocking and disheartening. We live here legally, work hard, pay our taxes, and contribute to the local economy and society. And, yet, in a storm of anger and fear, we find ourselves the targets of resentment.
But, to fully understand why some Ghanaians are calling for Nigerians to
“A major factor behind the protests is the perception that Nigerians are the driving force behind crime in Ghana, and are often identified as culprits after Police investigations. Placards at recent demonstrations cited kidnapping, ritual killings, cybercrime, armed robbery, and prostitution. Official data, however, provides no support for singling out Nigerians….. Statistics from Ghana Prisons Service as of Monday, 4 August 2025, indicate that out of a total prison population of 13,949, there are 991 foreigners in custody…..earlier data released by Ghana Prisons Service for 2021, showed that 314 Nigerian inmates accounted for 35% of the foreign prisoner population and roughly 2% of the overall inmate population”
leave, we must resist the temptation to react emotionally, and, instead, examine the historical, economic, cultural, social, and political reasons behind this sentiment. It may well reflect the broader anxieties of a region in flux.
1. Criminal Stereotypes
A major factor behind the protests is the perception that Nigerians are the driving force behind crime in Ghana, and are often identified as culprits after Police investigations. Placards at recent demonstrations cited kidnapping, ritual killings, cybercrime, armed robbery, and prostitution. Official data, however, provides no support for singling out Nigerians. Statistics from Ghana Prisons Service as of Monday, 4 August 2025, indicate that out of a total prison population of 13,949, there are 991 foreigners in
custody. This represents approximately 7% of all inmates (Statistics – Ghana Prisons Service, accessed 05 August, 2025).
Although, no definite number of Nigerians is captured, earlier data released by Ghana Prisons Service for 2021 showed that 314 Nigerian inmates accounted for 35% of the foreign prisoner population and roughly 2% of the overall inmate population ( The Fourth Estate, accessed 05 August 2024).
Against a reported number of approximately 77,000 Nigerians in Ghana, we can conclude that:
1. There are indeed, Nigerian criminals in Ghana. Most Nigerians acknowledge this, and support the full and fair application of the law.
2. Nigerians implicated in criminal activity, are a tiny fraction of the entire Nigerian population in Ghana.
3. At approximately 2% of the entire prison population, Nigerians cannot be singled out as the driving force behind crime in Ghana.
The tendency to highlight crimes committed by Nigerians in media, however isolated, and sensationalise these events based on nationality, has cemented a damaging stereotype. The reality is that many Nigerians living in Ghana are hardworking professionals, contributing
actively to national development. We are not criminals, we are neighbours. It is time to question and reject unfounded stereotypes that divide rather than unite.
2. Economic Competition
One of the most cited grievances, stems from business rivalry in Ghana’s informal sector. Many Ghanaian traders claim that Nigerians have flooded the retail space, particularly in markets, engaging in categories of retail trade reserved exclusively for Ghanaians under the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre Act, 2013 (Act 865). Foreigners are also required to invest a minimum of US$1 million before trading in imported goods and services, which Ghanaian traders claim is frequently flouted. According to Ghanaian traders, Nigerian businesses-often backed by cross-border supply chains-undercut local markets, threatening livelihoods. In 2019, members of the Ghana Union of Traders Association locked over 600 shops owned by Nigerians, citing violations of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre Act, 2013 (Act 865).
The economic strain is palpable, and the path forward must be rooted in fair enforcement, mutual respect, and cooperation. Laws must be upheld, and applied without bias. Nigerian traders, like all foreigners, must comply with local regulations governing business and commerce. Equally, the principles of hospitality and regional cooperation require that those who abide by the law, be treated with dignity and fairness. Ghana has a right to regulate its markets and enforce its laws, but such enforcement must be even-handed and grounded in due process. The public must also distinguish between individual infractions, and sweeping generalisations that fuel xenophobia.
Rather than descend into rivalry, both nations have the chance to pursue compliance and cooperation. The economic strain presents a chance to unlock shared prosperity, through regional cooperation.
3. Cultural Misunderstanding
Some Ghanaians have voiced concerns about cultural domination, citing in particular, the Igbo Kingdom Controversy. This controversy stems from a 2013 video that has been recirculated online, featuring a Nigerian title holder identified as Eze Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu. In the viral clip, he stated that he would acquire 50 acres of Ghanaian land to build an Igbo Kingdom, which was received by both Ghanaians and Nigerians as an audacious assertion of parallel authority. “They even have an Igbo king in Ghana. They have hijacked our lands”, one Protester said.
Eze Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu has since issued an apology, and released a video clarifying that his title is only ceremonial. He also stated that there are no ongoing plans to establish an Igbo kingdom in Ghana. “Some people will say I’m building a Kingdom. I want to destroy Ghana. I want to rule Ghana. I want to put Ghana in my pocket. Who am I to do this?” he said. He noted in a separate video that he has been married to a Ghanaian for 28 years and has five Ghanaian children, adding that he harbours no ill intent towards Ghana or its people.
On festivals such as the annual Iri Ji (New Yam Festival), Nigerians have stated that cultural events are not held as an act of domination, but respectfully as a matter of identity. These festivals are publicised as open events, and often see a significant amount of Ghanaian and foreign participation. According to Njoku
Macdonald Obinna, Nigeria’s eye-witness reporter who covered the 2021 – 2024 Igbo New Yam Festival celebrations in Ghana, the 2024 Igbo New Yam Festival recorded approximately 20,000 people in attendance. This included people from Ghana, Nigeria, the Caribbean, the United States of America, Indonesia, Guinea-Conakry, and South Africa. Representatives from Ghana’s National House of Chiefs, Regional House of Chiefs, Traditional Councils, and the United Nations were also involved. If there is any misunderstanding here, it is symbolic. What is intended as cultural pride and exchange, has been misread as disrespect and encroachment. Dialogue and cultural sensitivity from both sides, could ease such frictions.
These incidents which are often exaggerated or taken out of context, play into a broader narrative of invasion, particularly territorial invasion. It is therefore, important to state that under Article 266 of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana and Section 10 of the Land Act, 2020 (Act 1036), foreigners including Nigerians, are prohibited from acquiring a freehold interest in land. The law only permits leases up to a maximum of 50 years, after which interest reverts to its Ghanaian owner or the State. This extends to companies and corporate bodies that are considered foreigners. In simple terms, Nigerians cannot buy or claim Ghanaian land. No foreigner can. Concerns that Nigerians may lay territorial claims are without constitutional basis, and should be put to rest.
4. Misinformation and Political Exploitation
In today’s digital world, misinformation spreads faster than the truth. As with many modern crises, misinformation has been gasoline on the fire. Viral posts, often doctored, outdated, or taken out of context, have painted Nigerians as lawless and Ghanaians as xenophobic.
“One of the most cited grievances, stems from business rivalry in Ghana’s informal sector. Many Ghanaian traders claim that Nigerians have flooded the retail space, particularly in markets, engaging in categories of retail trade reserved exclusively for Ghanaians under the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre Act, 2013 (Act 865)…."
As stated by Ranking Member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Hon. Samuel Ablakwa, “they are not a true reflection of the situation.”
Political manipulation has not helped. Political manipulation has been a prominent feature in this rise of xenophobia, evident on placards drawing political support for the founder of the All People’s Congress, Mr Hassan Ayariga.
Misinformation and political opportunism distort public perception, and inflame tensions where none need exist. When allowed to thrive, especially in emotionally charged contexts, they erode trust and distract from the real issues facing citizens.
5. Historical Wounds
The historical backdrop marked by two major cycles of mass expulsion, is hard to ignore. In 1969, the Government of Ghana issued the Aliens Compliance Order expelling many West African migrants, primarily Yorubas from Nigeria, on grounds of economic decline. Two decades later amid Nigeria’s own economic downturn, the Nigerian Government retaliated by expelling migrants, primarily Ghanaians, in 1983 and 1985. Both nations justified these devastating mass expulsions, as efforts to preserve the livelihood of citizens.
These cycles of expulsion, created long-lasting mistrust. We must avoid cyclical patterns rooted in post-colonial rivalries and economic crises. The chant “Nigeria Must Go” which mirrors the infamous “Ghana Must Go” is a reminder of a painful chapter in our shared past, and a warning against letting history repeat itself.
Government Response
Both governments have been swift to defuse the crisis. President John Mahama has assured Nigerians living in Ghana of our safety, condemning xenophobia in the country. He gave this assurance while receiving President Bola Tinubu’s special envoy, led by Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca OdumegwuOjukwu. President Mahama reiterated Ghana’s commitment to the ECOWAS Protocols, especially those relating to free movement and trade. He clarified that the situation with the viral video was swiftly contained, and the protests involved fewer than 50 people. Hon. Samuel Ablakwa emphasised the “deep
historical, anthropological, and cultural bonds” between Ghana and Nigeria.
The meeting affirmed that isolated criminal cases involving foreigners would be handled under Ghanaian law, not through collective punishment. Ambassador OdumegwuOjukwu, on her part, thanked the President for his hospitality and explained that the envoy’s mission was to help calm tensions following the viral videos that had raised concerns in Nigeria. She also proposed the establishment of a Nigeria-Ghana Joint Commission, to address challenges and enhance international relations.
Coexistence
Despite the topical tension, everyday life tells a different story. Millions of Ghanaians co-exist peacefully with Nigerians. Ghanaians and Nigerians attend the same schools, worship in the same churches, intermarry, and collaborate across music, film, fashion, and several other industries. During her visit, Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu reassured Nigerians that there was no visible protest or hostility; “I would say, there’s no cause for alarm ”.
We must not allow isolated incidents, to define our relationship. This is not a story of villains and victims. It is a story of fragile economies, uncertain futures, and the human tendency to look for someone to blame. Worsened by misinformation, misunderstanding, and political manipulation. But, history has shown, again and again, that mass discriminatory expulsion solves nothing.
To avoid a repeat of past mistakes, both nations must uphold and enforce local laws for the benefit of all residents, whether citizens or foreigners. This includes condemning criminal activity based on credible evidence, discouraging political opportunism that exploits tensions, and promoting accurate communication to counter misinformation - especially on digital platforms. Sustained, respectful dialogue between communities and governments should be encouraged, alongside community-led conflict resolution and integration efforts. Upholding ECOWAS principles on free movement, residence, and trade remains essential. Equally important, is building cross-border cooperation to ease trade tensions and reinforce shared values. Public education campaigns can help combat xenophobia and build awareness of constitutional and land laws. No less important, is the need to acknowledge the positive contributions made by both Ghanaians and Nigerians in each other’s
countries.
West Africa’s greatest asset is its people: resilient, dynamic, and interconnected. Let us not tear that apart in fear. Let us build together.
Prosper Nwachukwu, Corporate and Commercial Lawyer; Advocate for Regional Cooperation, Accra, Ghana
Protest Against Nigerians in Ghana, Xenophobic?
Chukwuemeka Eze
_"Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it."
- George Santayana
_"There is no present or future - only the past, happening over and over again - now."
- Eugene O'Neill
Background
Many citizens of Nigeria and Ghana, especially the Youth, will remember the Nigeria and Ghana rivalry more as a football matter. It is, however, much more than that. Ghana got its independence in 1957, while Nigeria's independence was in 1960. Despite Nigeria being more than eight times of the population of Ghana, many Ghanaians, though harbour respect for Nigerians, view Nigeria from the prism of a giant with a clay foot.
In November 1969, the Kofi Busia regime in Ghana enforced the Aliens Compliance Order, which compelled all foreigners allegedly without proper documentation, to leave the country within two weeks. The Order led to the expulsion of more than two million people, especially Nigerians. The expulsion was part of a broader policy, aimed at addressing undocumented immigration and economic competition. The order stipulated that all foreigners lacking the necessary residence permits or engaged in unauthorised businesses were to leave Ghana by December 2, 1969. While the law targeted all undocumented immigrants, it disproportionately affected Nigerians, who were a substantial portion of the foreign population in Ghana then.
In 1983, the Shehu Shagari administration in Nigeria returned the "favour" to Ghanaians resident in Nigeria, through the infamous epithet known as "Ghana Must Go", referencing the bags many Ghanaians used to carry their belongings during their forced departure.
Following the global recession of 2008 arising from the global banking crisis, many developing economies, like that of Ghana, were hit with economic miasma, which affected mainly small and medium term enterprises, who were adversely affected. Under pressure from the Ghana Union of Trade Associations (GUTA), the Ghanaian Government enacted the Ghana Investment Promotion Act 865, which barred foreigners from engaging in retail trade.
On July 14, 2014, GUTA members forcefully locked up shops belonging or affiliated to Nigerian businesses. It took protests, counter-protests, and diplomacy,
before the tension simmered.
Eze Ndi Igbo, Ghana, takes the Centre Stage in 2025
His Royal Majesty Eze (Dr) Ambassador Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu, Eze Ohazurume 1, Eze Ndi Igbo Ghana, arrived Ghana as a businessman in 1995, and married a Ghanaian lady in 1998. He was crowned Eze Ndi Igbo, Ghana, on 30th August, 2012, about 13 years ago. His video of 2013, where he disclosed his plans to build an Igbo village or kingdom in Ghana, which went viral on social media in early July 2025, sparked xenophobic protests on 29 July, 2025. Some of the sentiments spewed by some respondents, are captured herein below:
“We don’t show-off our wealth in Ghana. We believe in spreading it, helping others or staying low key. But, any Nigerian that makes small money will flaunt it to lure our girls and corrupt our boys.”
“We don’t hate Nigerians, but we don’t like their lifestyle. They like to make loud noise, they spend unnecessarily, they like luxury a lot, but, we are on the quiet side,”
“Apart from their lifestyle, Nigerians are ahead of all of us in West Africa in many other good things. So, we are scared of their dominance,”
The ensuing social media war and subsequent street protest led to the Nigerian President sending the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mrs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, to commune with President John Mahama of Ghana on 30 July, 2025.
Not a few Ghanaians decried the rising crime rate, drug and human trafficking, and business dominance, taking their jobs, their women, and daughters, and heaped the blame on Nigerians.
South Africa becoming Synonymous with Xenophobia
From 1993 through 2008, 2015, 2017, and 2019, xenophobic attacks in South Africa became a recurring decimal, with many rioters shouting - ‘Buyelekhaya’, meaning, "go back home" or "go back to your country".
“It is time for the United Nations to address this issue, in order to offer succour to those vulnerable to xenophobic attacks, whether in Ghana, South Africa, or elsewhere. The world needs not wait for a deterioration, before it acts”
In September 2019, riots and looting targeting shops owned by foreign nationals broke out in South Africa, following the death of a taxi driver. Despite several arrests by the South African Police, looting was widespread and around 50 businesses predominantly owned by Nigerians were reportedly destroyed or damaged. The riots coincided with a nationwide truck driver strike, protesting against the employment of non-South African truckers. After riots resulted in 12 deaths in the first week of September, 640 of an estimated 100,000 Nigerians in South Africa volunteered to take free flights offered by Nigeria to return.
The Greeks Started It
The Ancient Greeks were the earliest people known for their xenophobic sentiment, as they denigrated foreigners as "barbarians". They had the belief that the Greek people and culture were superior to all other peoples and cultures, and that barbarians were naturally meant to be enslaved. Xenophobia, which is of Greek origin, has been described as the fear, hatred, or dislike of people from other countries or cultures. It is a form of prejudice that can manifest as hostility towards immigrants, refugees, or anyone perceived as foreigners.
Ancient Romans also held notions of superiority over other people, while the Germans held the view that their race was superior to others, and that the Jews were responsible for their woes.
The Germans Aggravated It Germany's persecution of Jews saw the Nazi regime, driven by antisemitism and racial ideology, systematically targeted Jews for extermination, culminating in the Holocaust, a genocide that resulted in the murder of 6 million Jews. In 1933, Jewish people in Germany were subjected to increasing discrimination, including the loss of jobs, exclusion from schools and universities, and restrictions on their movement and social interactions.
In 1935, the “Nuremberg Laws” stripped Jews of their citizenship and defined who was considered Jewish based on ancestry, laying the legal groundwork for further persecution.
The November 1938 pogrom, known as Kristallnacht, which means the Night of Broken Glass, saw widespread violence against Jewish businesses, synagogues, and homes, further escalating the persecution.
The systematic, State-sponsored persecution and murder of 6 million
Jews by the Nazi regime and its collaborators, is known as the Holocaust. This involved the establishment of concentration and extermination camps, where millions were systematically murdered through gassing, forced labour, and other horrific means. The events of this period remain a stark reminder of the dangers of intolerance, hatred, and the consequences of unchecked xenophobic sentiments, whether backed by the State or otherwise.
International Law Perspective
None of these international human rights documents [Universal Declaration of Human Rights, 1948; International Convention on Civil and Political Rights, 1966, and the International Convention on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, 1966], directly address the issue of xenophobia. This means that there is no express United Nations Convention on xenophobic acts.
At least six human rights documents are, however, relevant to any conversation around xenophobic sentiments and attacks. These are:
*(i) UN Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Racial Discrimination, 1965 ("CERD")";
*(ii) UN General Assembly, Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action, 1993 ["DAPA"];
*(iii) United Nations, Durban Declaration and Programme of Action, adopted at the World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Violence, 8 September 2001, endorsed by the UN General Assembly Resolution 56/266 of 15 May 2002 ["Durban Declaration"];
*(iv) Special Rapporteur on Contemporary forms of Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance, 1996, 2005, 2016, etc.;
*(v) UNHCHR, International Organisation for Migration, Racism, Discrimination and Xenophobia; and
*(vi) Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, General Recommendations on Discrimination Against Non-Citizens.
One common denominator of these materials, is that they tend to link xenophobia with racism. This leaves victims of xenophobia to depend on reliefs available within local jurisdictions, some of which are accomplices or initiators of the xenophobic sentiments.
It is time for the United Nations to address this issue, in order to offer succour to those vulnerable to xenophobic attacks, whether in Ghana, South Africa, or elsewhere. The world needs not wait for a deterioration, before it acts.
Chukwuemeka Eze
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) recently took steps to expand financial services access with the launch of NonResident Biometric Verification Number (NRBVN) policy. Already, the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS) data show that the number of Nigerian bank account owners linked to BVN rose by 2.7 million between December 2024 and July 2025 to 66.2 million. The surge in BVN enrollment is an indication that the policy is achieving its objective of getting more Nigerians into the domestic financial services net. Precious Ugwuzor
The Bank Verification Number (BVN) project, which captures the uniqueness of every bank customer is one of the mostinnovative projects introduced into the financial system by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
The BVN scheme gives each bank customer unique identification and has continued to revolutionalise the banking and payment systems while ensuring safety of depositors’ funds.
The project is now witnessing enrollment surge, as the Olayemi Cardoso-led CBN continues to take strategic steps to advance financial inclusion in the country.
The surge in BVN figures has also been attributed to the recent launch of Non-Resident Biometric Verification Number (NRBVN) in Abuja.
Following the unveiling of NRBVN in Abuja, the CBN boss Cardoso directed Nigerian banks to proactively develop and offer products specifically tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of the diaspora community. The NRBVN launch is seen as a major step to keep remittances inflow to the country soaring and dollar liquidity strong.
BVN enrolment continues surges
The NIBSS data has shown that the number of Nigerian bank account owners linked to BVN hit 66.2 million at the end of July, 2025.
The data showed significant surge from 64.8 million recorded in January 2025 and 63.5 million as at December 2024.
The data showed that 2.7 million new BVN enrollments were recorded between December 2024 and July 2025.
Further analysis of the NIBSS data showed that as at 2021, 51.9 million accounts were linked to BVN, it rose to 56 million in 2022, and 60.1 million in 2023 and closed 2024 at 63.5 million.
According to NIBSS, the BVN gives bank account owners a unique identity that can be verified across the Nigerian banking industry, while it ensures that customers’ bank accounts are protected from unauthorized access.
The BVN project, which captures the uniqueness of every bank customer, is one of the most-innovative projects introduced into the financial system in 2014.
Cardoso had explained that offering innovative and attractive financial solutions can greatly enhance diaspora participation, deepen financial inclusion, and significantly boost remittance inflows.
“Over the past year, our policy frameworks have undergone extensive refinements, informed by sustained dialogue with International Money Transfer Operators (IMTOs). The introduction of the willing buyer, willing seller regime, licensing of additional
IMTOs, and market reforms that have facilitated currency convergence are notable examples. Consequently, remittance flows through official channels have risen markedly, from $3.3 billion in 2023 to $4.73 billion last year,” he said.
He added: “With the introduction of NRBVN and complementary policy measures, we are optimistic about achieving our ambitious target of $1 billion in monthly remittance flows, a goal we believe is entirely achievable given the growing trust and convenience in formal remittance channels”.
Cardoso explained that a fully connected system will ensure that every Nigerian in the diaspora can confidently contribute to national development through trusted and cost-effective channels. He emphasized that the launch was not the final destination, but the beginning of a broader journey.
“The NRBVN is a dynamic initiative, one that will continue to evolve in response to the needs of its users. It presents a unique opportunity to learn, to innovate, and to adapt. We encourage all stakeholders to engage actively, share insights, and help shape a system that serves millions of Nigerians across geographies and generations. The NRBVN is not just a tool; it is a bridge between Nigeria and its global citizens,” he said.
He added: “With the introduction of NRBVN and complementary policy measures, we are optimistic about achieving our ambitious target of $1 billion in monthly remittance flows, a goal we believe is entirely achievable given the growing trust and convenience in formal remittance channels”.
“To meet these targets, collaboration and compliance with established regulatory frameworks remain essential. All stakeholders MUST
adhere strictly to the FX Code and other relevant regulatory guidelines. This is critical to ensuring market stability, integrity, and overall confidence in Nigeria’s financial system.”
The CBN boss further invited the IMTOs to integrate with the NRBVN platform as part of shared vision to build a secure, efficient, and inclusive financial ecosystem for Nigerians globally.
Cardoso explained that a fully connected system will ensure that every Nigerian in the diaspora can confidently contribute to national development through trusted and cost-effective channels. He emphasized that the launch was not the final destination, but the beginning of a broader journey.
“The NRBVN is a dynamic initiative, one that will continue to evolve in response to the needs of its users. It presents a unique opportunity to learn, to innovate, and to adapt. We encourage all stakeholders to engage actively, share insights, and help shape a system that serves millions of Nigerians across geographies and generations. The NRBVN is not just a tool; it is a bridge between Nigeria and its global citizens,” he said.
He reiterated the CBN’s commitment to reducing the cost of remittances, currently averaging over seven percent in Sub-Saharan Africa. Lowering these costs, he stated, will enhance the safety and appeal of formal channels while amplifying the socioeconomic impact of diaspora remittances on Nigerian households and the broader economy.
on dollar inflows via IMTOs
The value of foreign exchange inflows to the economy through the IMTOs rose sharply in 12 months to $4.76 billion, the apex bank’s quarterly statistical bulletin showed.
The report, which covered inflows in 2024, represents a significant 44.5 per cent increase from the $3.30 billion recorded in 2023. The IMTO inflows continue to be a vital source of foreign currency for Nigeria, supporting families, businesses, and the broader economy amid ongoing FX market challenges.
The year began with a strong performance in January 2024 as inflows surged 32.5 per cent year-on-year to $390.86 million, compared to $295.21 million in January 2023. This early momentum was maintained in February, with inflows increasing by 67.3 per cent, rising to $326.91 million from $195.23 million the previous year.
March continued the positive trend, with IMTO inflows hitting $363.76 million in 2024, up 30 per cent from $279.79 million in March 2023. April saw a leap, with inflows reaching $466.11 million, an 83.3 per cent increase from April 2023’s $254.26 million, marking the highest year-on-year percentage growth in the first half of the year.
May recorded inflows of $404.75 million in 2024, a 45.3 per cent rise compared to $278.54 million the year before.
June was a relatively flat month-onmonth but still strong year-on-year, with inflows at $389.79 million, up 40.2 per cent from $278.04 million in June 2023. July and August were the standout months for IMTO inflows, posting the highest volumes of the year. In July 2024, inflows jumped to $552.94 million, more than double the $240.35 million recorded in July 2023, representing a 130% year-on-year increase.
August maintained this peak momentum with inflows rising to $585.21 million, a 116 per cent increase from $271.24 million in August 2023. These two months alone accounted for nearly a quarter of the total inflows for the entire year, highlighting their critical role in Nigeria’s FX ecosystem. The final four months of 2024 showed a mixed pattern of inflows, reflecting broader economic uncertainties and seasonal effects. September recorded $336.61 million in IMTO inflows, up 40.8 per cent from $238.98 million in the same month of 2023.
October’s inflows rose modestly to $378.85 million, a 29.1 per cent increase year-on-year. However, November saw a sharp decline, with inflows dropping by 22.1 per cent to $252.28 million from $324.20 million in November 2023.
December ended the year on a more positive note, with inflows rebounding to $316.59 million, a 9.1 per cent increase compared to $348.33 million in December 2023. The surge in IMTO inflows is closely tied to the reforms introduced by the CBN under Governor Cardoso since his assumption of office in September 2023.
NOTE:
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
The Director General World Trade Organization, (WTO), Dr Mrs Ngozi OkonjoIweala, has urged African nations to throw weight behind the Africa Tourism and Creative Economy Expo, (AFTCEE) scheduled for November in Abuja by leveraging the opportunity provided by the upcoming event to harness assets for accelerated trade and economic growth.
The economist, who is the first woman and first African to lead the WTO as the DG,
shored up the support for the forthcoming continental event in a letter, personally signed and sent to the Chief Executive Officer, CEO of Afrocultour, Mr Chuks Akamadu, the organizers of the event.
Okonjo-Iweala described the theme of the Expo, “Optimizing Africa’s Comparative and Competitive Advantage for Accelerated Trade and Economic Growth,” as timely and highly relevant.
“Africa is immensely endowed with cultural and touristic opportunities. Now is the time to leverage these
advantages to integrate more deeply into global and regional supply chains. At the WTO, we believe the future of trade lies in services, and tourism and the creative economy have a central role to play,” she said.
She equally expressed gratitude for the invitation to speak at the event despite her prior commitments at the G20 Leaders Summit.
In the letter, the former Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister for the Economy, wished the organizers a successful and impactful event, saying she looked forward to engaging in the future.
In a display of compassion and commitment to societal well-being, UBA Foundation, the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, extended its generosity to the less privileged in Lagos through its charity outreach program.
The Foundation visited So-Said Charity Homes Community and SOS Children’s Village, in Lagos, where the elderly, children, and vulnerable members of
society were presented with essential food items and other relief materials, including several bags of rice, beans, and other necessities, aimed at alleviating hardship and putting smiles on the faces of the beneficiaries.
Speaking during the outreach, UBA’s Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Alero Ladipo, who emphasised the Foundation’s commitment to improving lives across Africa, noted that this initiative is
one of the ways the Foundation gives back to its communities.
“At UBA Foundation, we believe in touching lives and giving back to the communities where we operate. The elderly and children are among the most vulnerable in society, and it is our responsibility to support them in any way we can. This outreach is a testament to our commitment to corporate social responsibility and sustainable development,” she said.
Emmanuel Addeh in
Abuja
The Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission (EERC) has urged MainPower to follow the provisions of the Commission’s Business Rules which require that they make a formal petition within 30 days of the Commission’s Order if they were not satisfied with the directive.
The commission in a statement noted that this will eventually lead to public hearing where the grievances of the parties will be made known,
discussed and resolved, instead of cutting power supply unilaterally.
The disagreement emanated when on July 21, the EERC reduced the Band ‘A’ electricity tariff in Enugu to N160/kWh from N209, leading to concerns among electricity Distribution Companies (Discos) and electricity Generation Companies (Gencos).
“As regards the curtailing of power supply in Enugu, and their dissatisfaction with the Tariff Order from the Commission,
thereby plunging parts of the state into darkness, the Commission reminded MainPower of the provisions of the Commission’s Business Rules which require that they make a formal petition within 30 days of the Commission’s Order if they were not satisfied with the Order, instead of resulting in curtailing of supply.
“The petition will enable a public hearing on the Tariff Order to which the outcome will be implemented.
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, and the Lagos State Government are in collaboration to host a stakeholders workshop on National Land Titling, Registration and Documentation Programme (NLTRDP).
Housing and Urban Development Minister, Ahmed Dangiwa, is scheduled to flag-off the Workshop which will be hosted by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, a statement from the Director of Press and Public Relations, Badamasi Haiba, said in Abuja.
The Workshop which is slated to hold today (Tuesday) in Lagos, is expected to have high profile attendance from the built environment; professionals, real estate experts, mortgage institutions and other financial services stakeholders, the statement added.
KayodeTokede
The minority shareholders of Tourist Company of Nigeria Plc (TCN) have commended the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for its principled stance in overseeing the company.
The minority shareholders, who
account for over 4,000 members of the company, said the failure of the Alex Ibru group to complete the buyout of Ikeja Hotel Plc led to the current deadlock.
They said they had for years been at the short end of the stick due to family disputes and boardroom politics impacting their
stakes in the publicly listed company.
According to them, the situation was almost without solution, with no dividend paid for so many years, until the regulatory intervention of the SEC seven years ago, which halted the affairs of TCN “from the spiralling loss, and lack
of accountability before this intervention, which was welcomed by the minority shareholders”.
The minority shareholders, in a statement by a shareholder of Ikeja Hotel Plc and Chairman, Zonal Shareholders Mobilisation Committee for Annual General Meetings, Dr
Olatunde Okelana, DFIJP, said regardless of whether the Alex Ibru group has now acquired over 80 per cent equity in TCN, the company still has 4,991 shareholders and retains its status as a public company (Plc).
On the way out, the minority shareholders said: “If the Alex Ibru
group desires sole control of TCN, the proper and responsible course of action is to make an open and fair offer to buy out the remaining shareholders and take the Company private, just as 11 Hospitality Limited did with Capital Hotels Plc and in line with the SEC directives.”
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Uba Sani’s administration represents a confluence of capacity, competence and compassion, reckons TAOFEEQ MAHMOOD
See page 21
HOW TO DECAPACITATE BOKO HARAM BY GALULA
JOSHUA OCHEJA argues that the military should ramp up its relationship with the local population in order to tame the Boko Haram insurgency
See page 21
EDITORIAL
Nigeria’s food inflation and malnutrition crisis are symptoms of deep-seated problems that require immediate and coordinated solutions, writes CHETA NWANZE
A clear and alarming picture is emerging of Nigeria’s escalating food inflation and its devastating impact on child malnutrition. The crisis is not an abstract economic problem; a Premium Times report published on 10 August shows that this is a tangible, life-threatening emergency, vividly illustrated in communities like Awe in Nasarawa State. According to Premium Times, the local government’s nutrition coordinator, Salamatu Madaki, has reported a sharp increase in cases of severe acute malnutrition, with figures rising from 64 to 86 between December 2024 and May 2025. This disturbing trend, mirroring a national catastrophe, highlights a country where spiralling food costs are pushing its most vulnerable citizens to the brink.
When viewed through a global lens, Nigeria’s plight is among the most severe outside of war-torn and hyperinflationary countries. This is more than just a matter of economics; it’s a humanitarian emergency that threatens to cast a long shadow over the future of millions of Nigerian children.
The most recent data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) shows that Nigeria's food inflation, while having eased, remains a grave concern. The year-on-year food inflation rate for June 2025 stood at 21.97%, a significant drop from the peak of over 40% recorded in May 2024. However, this figure is still exceptionally high, especially when compared to a global average of 4.3% reported in the IMF's April 2025 World Economic Outlook. Nigeria’s rate is still considerably higher than that of its economic peers, such as Ghana's 17.2% and Kenya's 3.8%. Even with the moderation, the inflation rate signals an economy under immense pressure.
The tangible impact of this inflation is powerfully captured by the SBM Intelligence Jollof Index. According to its June 2025 report, the national average cost of preparing a single pot of Jollof rice, a staple for countless Nigerian families, has surged by an astonishing 153% since March 2023. The cost has risen from approximately ₦10,864 to over ₦27,527. This dramatic increase means a traditional celebratory meal has become a luxury, consuming a significant portion—up to 40%—of the new minimum monthly wage for low-income households.
This economic hardship has a direct link to the grim reality of child malnutrition. According to the 2025 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan, an estimated 2.55 million children under five are projected to suffer from acute malnutrition, with one million of these cases being severe. This places Nigeria's crisis on par with other severely affected nations. For comparison, UNICEF's 2025 projections for Afghanistan show 3.5 million children suffering from wasting, while Somalia is projected to have 1.7 million acutely malnourished children. Nigeria is in between both!
When we look at stunting, UNICEF reports that 32% of Nigerian children under five are affected, a rate that highlights a failure to meet global nutrition targets. WHO projects that if current trends continue, there will be 127 million stunted children under five globally in 2025, underscoring the severity of Nigeria’s contribution to this global challenge.
The crisis is not the result of a single issue but rather a combination of interconnected problems.
In conflict-affected regions, farmer displacement remains a major driver of food scarcity. A July 2025 report from UNICEF detailed a deadly attack in Benue State that displaced over 3,000 residents and destroyed food storage. This is a recent example of the systemic insecurity that continues to disrupt food supply chains and put millions at risk.
Nigeria continues to struggle to meet its humanitarian funding needs. The humanitarian response plan for the Northeast requires over $910 million in 2025, with a significant portion allocated to nutrition. Despite a recent $1.08 billion loan from the World Bank in March 2025 for various programmes,
including nutrition, the funding gap remains critical. A comparison with Yemen's 2025 Humanitarian Response Plan shows its nutrition cluster is only 3.4% funded, a stark reminder of the global nature of these resource gaps.
The Naira’s volatility, debt, and foreign exchange shortages continue to inflate import prices and erode household purchasing power, pushing food inflation higher. While the overall inflation rate has eased, price hikes for staples persist. Recent market surveys in Lagos show that a 50kg bag of rice has surged, and a single egg now costs five times its 2023 price, illustrating the enduring pressure on household budgets.
Beyond the Statistics: The Human Cost
These alarming figures point to a multi-faceted emergency with farreaching consequences.
The high number of acute malnutrition cases is a symptom of both regional insecurity and systemic underinvestment in food and healthcare systems. Severe wasting in children can lead to lifelong physical and cognitive deficits, threatening to create a "lost generation" with limited prospects for a healthy, productive future.
Soaring food costs are a major threat to urban and rural families, increasing social unrest and deepening poverty. The displacement of farmers and food insecurity is destabilising rural economies, leading to a migration of people into already overstretched urban slums and putting immense pressure on aid systems.
Malnutrition makes millions more vulnerable to infectious diseases, impairs children's performance at school, and lowers adult productivity. The widespread prevalence of stunting and wasting means that a large portion of the population will not have the opportunity to live healthy, fulfilling lives.
The Path Ahead: A Perilous Future Nigeria is heading towards a more perilous future without swift and decisive action. The combination of global food price shocks, local insecurity, and a weak currency could push inflation even higher, forcing more families into a state of acute hunger.
Nwanze is a partner at SBM Intelligence
Uba
Sani’s administration represents a confluence of capacity, competence and compassion, reckons TAOFEEQ MAHMOOD
Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has demonstrated an exceptional blend of competence and compassion in steering the state toward transformative development. His administration has embarked on an ambitious journey to bridge the infrastructure and socio-economic gaps between rural and urban areas, ensuring that no community is left behind. This commitment is evident in his administration’s focus on rural transformation, urban renewal, and inclusive governance, underpinned by a people-centered approach that prioritizes the welfare of Kaduna’s diverse populace. The recent approval of N3.5 billion for compensation to homeowners and service providers affected by the second phase of 80 road projects across the state’s 23 local government areas exemplifies this balanced vision, showcasing a governance model that combines strategic competence with deep compassion for the ordinary man.
Governor Uba Sani’s administration has made rural development one of its focal points of its agenda, encapsulated in the ‘SUSTAIN’ manifesto, which emphasizes inclusive growth, infrastructure development, and poverty alleviation. Recognizing that rural communities have historically been underserved, Governor Sani has shifted the focus from the urban-centric policies of his predecessor, Nasir El-Rufai, to a more inclusive model that extends the dividends of development to rural areas. His administration’s rural transformation agenda aims to reduce poverty, enhance productivity, and curb rural-urban migration by improving access to critical infrastructure such as roads, healthcare facilities, and schools.
One of the flagship initiatives under this agenda is the construction and rehabilitation of over 780 kilometers of roads across Kaduna’s three senatorial districts, with a significant portion targeting rural communities. By prioritizing rural connectivity, his administration is fostering economic growth and improving the quality of life for rural dwellers, who form the backbone of Kaduna’s agricultural sector.
The recent approval of N3.5 billion for compensation to those affected by the second phase of 80 road projects across all 23 LGAs further highlights Sani’s compassionate approach. Making the announcement, Dr. Abdullahi Baba Ahmed, Managing Director of the Kaduna State Roads Agency (KADRA), declared that the initiative will ensure that property owners and service providers impacted by the projects are fairly compensated, thus
minimizing disputes and fostering community support for infrastructure development. This move not only demonstrates administrative efficiency but also a deep understanding of the human cost of development, ensuring that progress does not come at the expense of vulnerable citizens.
According to Baba Ahmed, “These roads will impact every local government area. We’re not just constructing roads; we’re building links to opportunity, trade, and development. Governor Uba Sani is determined to ensure that no community is left behind.”
He described the latest approval as a “pivotal moment in Kaduna’s infrastructural journey.” What this means is that Governor Uba Sani is committed to timely execution and delivering full value for taxpayers’ money.
Among the key projects in view include the reconstruction of Rigasa Township Roads in Igabi Local Government Area, Kwoi Township Roads in Jaba Local Government Area, and the road linking the Kachia-Zonkwa Road to the new Federal University of Applied Sciences in Kachia Local Government Area.
Interestingly, also approved are the completion of the long-abandoned dual carriage road from PEN-Drive through Television Garage to Sabon Tasha in Chikun Local Government Area; the Bassawa Junction–Hunkiyi Junction road connecting Sabon Gari to Kudan Local Government Areas; and the Kayarda Tasha–Maskawa–Dan Alhaji Road in Lere Local Government Area.
While rural transformation is a priority, Uba Sani has not neglected the urban centers that his predecessor, Nasir El-Rufai, significantly transformed through the Kaduna Urban Renewal Programme. Governor Sani has made it clear time and again that he is committed to sustaining and expanding these gains, ensuring that urban areas like Kaduna, Zaria, and Kafanchan continue to thrive as hubs of economic activity.
Mahmood,
a public affairs analyst and good governance advocate, writes from Kaduna, Kaduna State
JOSHUA OCHEJA argues that the military should ramp up its relationship with the local population in order to tame the Boko Haram insurgency
As the country battles insurgency, one name readily comes to my mind whenever I have the opportunity to research counterinsurgency operations. I took the time to study his work. I realised that some of his postulations are relatable to the war against insurgency in Nigeria, and why it may be wise for our military to adapt where necessary. Insurgency is not a conventional war. It is irregular, meaning a situation where things are done differently in war situations. Winning the battle is different from winning the war. It is tactical victory versus strategic success. Tactical victory is short-term. Strategic success is a long-term concept that explains the importance of winning hearts and minds as a potent strategy in counterinsurgency operations.
This is where the postulations of David Galula, a former French military officer and counterinsurgency expert, come into play in counterinsurgency operations. In his classical work, “David Galula, Counterinsurgency Warfare: Theory and Practice”, he posited that insurgency is a competition between insurgents and the government for the support of the civilian population, as the population provides the "sea in which the insurgent swims". He emphasised that winning the support of the local population is crucial in counterinsurgency operations.
Let’s analyse the Boko Haram insurgency using Galula’s counterinsurgency manual. The Boko Haram war has festered because it is an irregular war that tanks and bullets alone can’t address. Have we wondered why, despite the superior artillery of the Nigerian military, the Boko Haram insurgents have been able to sustain the war for close to 16 years? I have also read commentaries criticising the military’s inability to defeat the Boko Haram insurgents. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work that way. It is not a boxing match. Boko Haram can’t be defeated even with an uppercut blow. It can only be decapacitated. Insurgencies don’t end. It transforms its cause over time, adapting to changing circumstances and evolving its tactics, strategies, and ideologies. For example, the FARC rebels of Colombia have existed for over 50 years, fighting the Colombian government. At some point, it transformed into a political party and went back to hostilities with the government.
Galula postulated that the most important thing for insurgents in the beginning is a cause. “Insurgencies will strive to latch onto a cause or causes derived from political problems most relevant to the population.” Galula was right. Leadership deficit and lack of accountability created an environment conducive to the insurgency. Mohammed Yusuf, the Boko Haram founder, preached against corruption and the perceived moral decay in Nigerian society. He criticised the government for its
failures and perceived injustices and advocated a system based on Islamic law (Sharia), which he believed would address these issues.
Galula also argued that “insurgents lack power but have the advantage regarding intangible assets such as ideology and a general lack of responsibility. Intangible assets are psychological and include winning the hearts and minds of the population. Counter-insurgents (military) hold the monopoly on tangible assets, such as material resources and legitimate power. The explanation is that though the military is powerful with all the arsenal that you can think of, however, they are obliged to uphold law and order, which limits the use of force so as not to violate the law of armed conflict that regulates the conduct of participants during armed conflicts, aiming to protect those who do not participate in hostilities and to limit excessive use of force in warfare.
For example, when Boko Haram insurgents take shelter in communities and use women and children as shields, the military can't engage the insurgents to risking civilian casualties. It would be a violation of the law of armed conflict. In some instances, the locals would shelter them in exchange for protection, and in some instances, food and other essential supplies. They would withhold sensitive information from the military. In some instances, the military is viewed as occupiers of their land rather than their liberators. This gives the Boko Haram insurgents an edge over the military. It is from these shelters that Boko Haram insurgents monitor the movement of the military and launch attacks when their guards are down. The population must be involved in a successful counterinsurgency operation. This is Galula’s position on the local population, providing the "sea in which the insurgent swims".
Ocheja, PhD, specialises in the documentation of the military histories of Nigeria and Africa
Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA
Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com
The amendment bill is unnecessary
The moribund Nigeria power sector recorded a historic milestone on 17 March 2023 when the late President Muhammadu Buhari assented to the 5th Alteration Bills, 2023, thus devolving power from the Exclusive Legislative List to Concurrent Legislative List. Combined with the consequential Electricity Act enacted same year, that presidential assent fully decentralised electricity supply industry in Nigeria, making it possible for states to participate in its generation, transmission, and distribution. Since then, 15 states have passed laws to establish their state electricity markets, with Enugu State taking the lead. Nine states have been granted full regulatory oversight authority by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).
However, this glimmer of hope in the power sector appears to be dimming already. With more states taking advantage of the Electricity Act 2023, and Enugu slashing electricity tariff for Band A in the state, some of these gains would seem to have shaken the table in some quarters, prompting the Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which has already passed a Second Reading in the Senate and awaiting a public hearing. Expectedly, stakeholders have rejected this move to arrest the progress made so far. Coming under the Forum of Commissioners of Power and Energy (FOCPEN) aegis, the 36 states have decried what they described as the lack of consultation by the federal government and the industry regulator, NERC, before plotting to derail the law.
by removing their explicit power to license minigrid operators and allied institutions. Worse still, the Bill seeks to return NERC the exclusive authority over activities on the national grid system and interstate electricity operations.
Section 230C (1) (a) provides that states may regulate electricity fully within their borders only if the supply is not linked to the national grid. Section 230(c) (2) of the Amendment Bill equally restores to NERC the sole authority in critical areas like tariffs, consumer rights, technical codes, and anti-trust issues. Also, the safety role of the National Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) will become national, and overrides state efforts as can be inferred from Section 230(c) (3) of the Amendment Bill. Meanwhile, licenses and contracts stay valid even during the transition of oversight from NERC to a SERC as seen in Section 230(c) (5) of the Amendment Bill.
The Amendment Bill will recentralise control under NERC and stall the growth of truly subnational electricity markets
T H I S D AY
EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU
DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE
MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO
DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU
CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN
THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA
Indeed, a critical review of the Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill 2025 would reveal clear attempts to erode or dilute the regulatory independence of the State Electricity Regulatory Commissions (SERCs) already established in the 36 states as well as undermine the vision of a fully decentralised, contract-based electricity market as envisaged under the Electricity Act 2023. For instance, Section 63 of the proposed Amendment Bill erodes the authority of SERCs
GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU
DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE
DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI
SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI
CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI
DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO
TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com
Other concerns are the implied supremacy of NERC in dispute resolution, ambiguity and uncertainty in existing licenses and contracts in Section 230C (4–6), and the potential erosion of investor confidence arising from a rollback of state powers and the re-centralisation tendencies that would signal regulatory instability and policy reversals. This is especially so for investors that have already committed resources based on the decentralised framework of the Electricity Act 2023.
We agree with the concerns being expressed by the 36 states. The Amendment Bill has indeed arrogated more powers and control to the NERC by way of approval, making rules, setting out guidelines and participating in the distribution and trading of electricity space that is strictly for the SERCs. The Amendment Bill will recentralise control under NERC and stall the growth of truly subnational electricity markets. We note that the law is still very young and has done so well so far. Why the hurry to fix what is not broken?
We call on the National Assembly to let the Electricity Act, 2023 be.
Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-300 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (750- 1000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive. com along with photograph, email address and phone numbers of the writer.
"Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies…" – Proverbs 31:10
Five years have passed since the Lord called home our beloved wife, mother, sister, and matriarch — Deaconess Florence Olanike Atte — yet not a day goes by without the echo of her voice in our hearts and the light of her legacy in our lives.
Florence was more than a woman of virtue — she was the anchor of our family, the fragrance of grace in every room she entered, and the embodiment of godly wisdom, faith, and love. With unwavering strength, she nurtured her children, stood by her husband, uplifted her community, and served the Lord with humility and conviction.
A pillar in ministry, a beacon of encouragement, a mother whose arms never tired, and a friend whose prayers never ceased — she lived Proverbs 31 with every breath.
Her kindness clothed many; her wisdom guided countless souls. In her presence, there was peace. In her absence, there remains a void only heaven can fill.
Though tears still fall and hearts still ache, we rejoice knowing that she rests in the bosom of the Almighty — awaiting the glorious resurrection.
On behalf of the children: Grace, Gabriel, Abigail and Victoria, I am grateful for the gift of her life and honour her today with love, cherished memory, and an enduring promise: We will carry forward her light.
To all who stood with us through the journey of grief, comfort, and healing, we say thank you. Your prayers, support, and love have meant more than words can express.
Zacchaeus Olu Atte, Ayetoro Gbede, Kogi State
Abuja is not just the capital of Nigeria. It is the ancestral home of the Amwamwa, Bassa, Egbira, Gade, Ganagana, Gbagyi, Gbari, Gwandara and Koro.
They're the original custodians of their lands. They're rich in culture, rooted in history, and still fighting for justice. For centuries, Abuja’s original inhabitants have lived in harmony with their lands. Today, they remain among the most excluded. Thus, we commemorate the 2025 United Nations International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples with the theme: “Empowering Indigenous Voice: Promoting Indigenous Rights and Preserving Culture”.
Dr. Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, Executive Director, Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civil Education (CHRICED)
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The daily average demand for Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) also known as petrol stabilised at about 38.94 million litres per day in June this year, with Lagos state consuming about 14.27 per cent or 205.66 million litres out of the roughly 1.44 billion litres national supply for the month.
Specifically, a document seen by THISDAY
showed that Nigeria’s monthly truck-out of petrol in that month totaled 1,440,768,129 litres, with Lagos alone taking 205,664,228 litres, underscoring the citystate’s overwhelming share of retail fuel distribution in the period.
The data was presented by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to the Federation Account Allocation Committee
(FAAC) during their July meeting.
A THISDAY analysis showed that the official state-by-state truck-out breakdown indicated a very uneven spread of petrol offtake across the federation, reflecting population concentration, transport and commercial hubs, industrial demand, and logistics patterns.
As mentioned earlier, the top end of the distribution was led by Lagos, followed
by Ogun at 88,686,299 litres (6.16 per cent), the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) at 77,507,001 litres (5.38 per cent), Oyo at 72,809,933 litres (5.05 per cent), Delta at 68,509,151 litres (4.76 per cent) and Kano at 68,221,917 litres (4.74 per cent). Together these six states accounted for a large chunk of June supply.
The data further showed that petrol consumption has more than halved when it was at its peak in
2021. Nigeria’s highest recorded average daily petrol consumption occurred in April 2021, when official data showed about 93 million litres were used each day.
This figure, far above the long-standing national average of around 61 million litres, the managers of the sector at the time said, was largely driven by a combination of heavy subsidy payments and the smuggling of fuel to
neighbouring countries where prices were significantly higher.
The artificially low domestic price, sustained by subsidies, encouraged excessive demand and leakage across borders. By 2023, just before the federal government removed the petrol subsidy on May 29, daily consumption had already eased to around 66 million litres.
The Raw Material Research and Development Council (RMRDC) is wooing Nigerian investors to patronise its research outputs by embracing domestic resource based manufacturing that would end Nigeria’s industrial dependency.
The RMRDC made at the Nigeria Manufacturing and Equipment/Nigerian Raw Materials (NME/ NIRAM) Expo 2025 through its Director Agricultural and Agro Allied Raw Materials Department, Raw Material Research and Development Council (RMRDC), Dr. Sab C.
Ebiriekwe, and the Managing Director of Jola Global Industries Limited, Dr. Moses Omojola, who was formerly a director with RMRDC.
They pointed out that the Nigerian manufacturing sector is relying on importation for over 75 per cent of its industrial inputs
while about 80 per cent of manufacturing firms in Nigeria are owned by foreigners.
Ebiriekwe said in his presentation titled “Harnessing Local Resources: Enhancing Value Addition Through Innovation in Raw Material Sourcing” that Nigeria is grappling with industrial dependency
despite being endowed with vast natural resources, adding that no country industrialises sustainably without local raw material transformation through innovation.
He said that despite the abundance of local raw materials, only 35 per cent of local manufacturers in
Nigeria could rely on steady access to local raw materials. He added that a gap exists between research outcome and practical application as “only 5.0 per cent of research outputs reach commercialisation.”
In today’s fast-shifting corporate landscape, the smartest companies are turning to compliance governance, enterprise risk management, and financial analysis as their compass and radar, helping them spot threats before they strike, seize opportunities as they emerge, and steer confidently toward sustainable success. Festus akanbi explores why businesses must raise their game in this new era
In Nigeria’s financial and real sectors, compliance and enterprise risk management have moved from being backoffice formalities to front-page determinants of corporate survival. This is because a critical look at recent corporate failures reveals a recurring thread: promising firms, particularly in the once buoyant fintech landscape and the real sector giants, have crumbled under the weight of compliance breaches and poorly managed risks.
Analysts pointed out that in the financial sector, lapses in anti-money laundering controls, Know Your Customer procedures, and reporting obligations have triggered regulatory sanctions and investor flight. In the real economy, from manufacturing to infrastructure, weak governance structures, cavalier risk taking, and disregard for statutory requirements
‘tinubu
have led to insolvencies, abandoned projects, and shattered public trust. Analysts argued that the narrative is no longer about isolated missteps; it is about a systemic underestimation of compliance and risk management as strategic levers, without which firms are only as stable as the next regulatory audit or market shock.
For a nation that has to deal with many business and economic challenges, the ability of companies, especially startups, to put their house in order is seen as a necessity; after all, it only makes sense to avoid complicating the already difficult operating environment in Nigeria.
ENtErprISE rISk
MaNagEMENt
Analysts point out that
although the challenges of lack of compliance and enterprise risk management cut across all sectors, there is no doubt that bigger firms are better placed to withstand initial shocks that the development can bring to the company, much more than the startups, hence the rising mortality of startups in Nigeria and other parts of Africa. They added that economic challenges in the form of high inflation, currency volatility, and forex shortages can be headaches for investors and startups. Others blame regulatory uncertainty in the form of changes and unclear actions that reflect a lack of understanding of the new nature of developments, which also tends to disrupt growth plans. There is also the problem of over-reliance on foreign venture capital without
establishing sustainable revenue streams.
However, reports said bigger challenges came in the form of weak governance and unrealistic scaling. In the postmortem analyses of some of the collapsed firms, especially the startups, in Nigeria, analysts said there were incidences of rapid expansion without adequate structures, management capacity, relevant human capital, board oversight, or ethical leadership most certainly result in internal breakdowns.
Today, Nigeria, long regarded as Africa’s startup capital, is facing a sobering reality as a wave of company closures in 2024 and 2025 raises concerns over the sustainability of its tech ecosystem.
The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com
The Chairman and CEO of Air Peace Limited, Dr Allen Onyema, has said that the President
S a HCO r eports
155.4% profit in H1
Skyway Aviation Handling Company Plc (SAHCO) has announced unaudited half-year financial results for the period ended June 30, 2025, reporting a remarkable 155.4 per cent increase in profit, driven by strong revenue growth and operational efficiency.
The company said it recorded a revenue of N21.063 billion, representing a 74 per cent increase compared to N12.11 billionposted in
the same period in 2024. This substantial growth was supported by an increased demand for aviation handling services, strategic partnerships, and operational expansion both locally and regionally.
Chairman of SAHCO Plc, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, commented: “This outstanding performance reflects the dedication of our team, the loyalty of our clients, and our strategic focus on sustainable growth.
Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s administration is determined to solve the perennial infrastructural challenges that have over the years retarded the growth of air travel in Nigeria.
Onyema said that with the determination of President Tinubu and his team in the aviation
sector to transform airport facilities and modernise them with the ambitious plans to address decades-old airport infrastructure challenges, industry stakeholders are of the view that once completed, the transformation will not only improve passenger
experience but also unlock new revenue streams for airlines.
Speaking at the 29th League of Airport and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC) Annual Conference in Lagos, Onyema described inadequate airport infrastructure as one of the most pressing
barriers to the growth and profitability of Nigerian airlines. He stressed that the absence of proper transit facilities at key airports has long hindered the country’s ability to function as a true regional hub, costing airlines both passengers and revenue.
Chinedu Eze
In recognition of his noble contributions to the aviation industry, foremost aircraft maintenance engineer, Dr Sunday Kayode Solomon Olubadewo has been honoured as one of the Champions of Aviation Development. Olubadewo was
recognised with a Distinguished Honourary Award as ‘Nigeria’s Foremost Aircraft Maintenance Engineer’ at the 29th edition of the League of Airport and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC) annual conference held at the Providence Hotel, Lagos on the 7th of August, 2025.
Launch of book entitLed ‘PsychoLog of creativity’...
L-R: Chairman, Action Health, Dr. Eset Uwemedimo; Chairman, Digital Finance Solutions Limited, Deacon Niyi Ajao; Author, Psycholog of Creativity, Gogo Majin; and Mrs. Adenike Eset, during the launch of the book entitled ‘’Psycholog of Creativity’’ held in Lagos... recently
backs presidential hopeful on one-term
chuks okocha in Abuja
Former governor of Anambra State and 2023 presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP), Mr. Peter Obi, said the rate of hunger and poverty in Nigeria was real, not exaggerated, and not mere statistics. Obi said this in a post on X, explaining that the
harsh reality was that millions of Nigerians were grappling with acute food shortages and multi-dimensional poverty at a scale never before seen in theThecountry.comments came as human rights activist and lawyer, Dele Farotimi, yesterday, supported Obi’s proposed one-term of four years,
stressing that past Nigerian leaders squandered longer tenures without delivering meaningful progress.
Writing on X, Obi stated, “In our country today, hunger and poverty are not just distant statistics; they are the harsh reality that millions of our people face daily.
“Recently, the United
says past leaders wasted eight years mismanagement have nearly wiped out our once vibrant middle class. Families who once lived stable lives are now slipping into poverty.
Nations stated that about 34 million Nigerians will face acute food insecurity, and about 63 per cent of our population, which is about 133 million people, now live in multidimensional poverty.
“Inflation, even with the suppressed statistics, is nearly 30 per cent, while unemployment and economic
The Niger State Government has sought an out of court settlement in the case between it and Badeggi FM Radio station in Minna, Niger State.
At the commencement of hearing in the case filed before Justice Mohammed Mohammed, the vacation judge of the High Court on Monday, counsel to the state government, Mr. Jacob John- son Usman, SAN, told the court that the respondents would want the case to be settled out of court.
Mr. Philip Emmanuel counsel to the applicants did not oppose the request by the respondents.
After hearing from both parties, Justice Mohammed Mohammed granted the request of the respondents and adjourned the matter to 3rd September, 2025 to enable them explore an out-of-court settlement of the case.
The two parties are expected to meet and iron out the grey areas of misunderstanding before coming up with conditions and terms of reference for
the settlement at the next adjournment day.
Justice Mohammed Mohammed had last week granted an interim injunction stopping Governor Moham- med Umaru Bago or any of his proxy from shutting the Badeggi FM radio station in the suit filed by Badeggi Broadcasting Services Ltd and Mohammed Shuaibu Badeggi the owner of the station.
The suit was brought pursuant to sections 6(6)a 36(1and 2) 41,43,46 and the Seventh Schedule Of The Constitution Of The Fed-
chuks okocha in Abuja
For the second in ten days, the lawmaker representing Kiru/ Bebeji Federal Constituency in Kano State, Hon. Abdulmumin Jibrin Kofa, Sunday night, held a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu behind closed-doors.
THISDAY gathered that the meeting, which took place at
the Presidential Villa in Abuja, began at about 9:00 pm and lasted until nearly 11:00 pm, underscoring what insiders describe as “serious and sensitive political discussions.”
Although Jibrin did not disclose the agenda, sources privy to the meeting hinted that the talks might have revolved around the relationship between President
Tinubu and former Kano State governor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, as well as growing anti-APC sentiment in certain political quarters in the North.
During his first visit, he had told State House Correspon- dents that their conversation centred on “issues of national development,” without offering further details.
eral Republic of Nigeria as Amended, as well as section 2(2) 9 and 13 of the National Broadcasting Commission act cap N11 LFN 2004, and order 2 rule 3,4,(a) (b) (c) of the fundamental Rights ( Enforcement Procedure rule 2009 and also under the inherent jurisdiction of the Hon. Court as prescribed under section 6 (6)(a) of the 1999 Constitution as Amended.
“But this is not just ordinary, it is as a result of incompetent leadership without capacity and compas- sion, who are not interested in putting the Nigerian people first in their actions.
“Other nations have faced similar challenges and turned their fortunes around through disciplined leadership, sound economic policies, and a total commitment from the leaders to invest in human development and pulling their people out of poverty.”
Obi added, “A recent example is what is happening in Argentina. In Argentina, over 52 per cent of its population lived in poverty by early 2024 according to the World Bank, with millions of Argentines unable to meet basic needs.
Inflation was above 200 per cent, and economic confidence
had collapsed.
“Yet, within two years, through decisive action to cut waste in governance and prioritize economic stability, the newly inaugurated president was able to cut down the poverty rate to 38.1 per cent from 52 per cent in just two years and extreme poverty fell to 8.2 per cent, with inflation just around 2–3 per cent monthly. “As at 2025, the urban poverty had declined to 31.6 per cent, lifting millions of people out of poverty. Investor confidence grew and the economy began to grow. The people now see real improvements in their daily lives.”
The former governor stated, “Both Argentina and the current Nigerian leadership assumed office in the same year, and this proves what I have always stated, that two years may not be enough to change a nation with a 100 per cent turnaround.
Forty-six suspected drug traffickers have been arrested by the Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), while assorted drugs weighing 40,000kg were seized within the month of July this year.
The agency also said it destroyed seven cannabis plantations spanning 15.85 hectares across two local government areas of the state
Speaking in Benin City on Monday, while presenting the command’s July operational report, the Commander of Narcotics, Mitchell Ofoyeju, said the raids were carried out in Ihama Road and other known drug hotspots across Edo State.
“The July result reflects the ongoing commitment to dismantling drug trafficking operations in the state. We apprehended 46 drug suspects, comprising 38 males and 8 females.
“A total of seven cannabis
farms measuring 15.85 hectares across Oke Forest in Uhunmwonde and Ewere Forest in Uzebba, Owan West Local Government Areas, were destroyed.
“In all, we successfully took 39,983.294 kg of narcotic drugs out of illicit circula- tion. The breakdown of the drugs is as follows: cannabis, 39,977.644 kg; psychotropic substances, 5.5753 kg; methamphetamine, 0.26 grammes; cocaine, 0.0598 grammes; and 5.8 litres of codeine syrup,” he stated.
L-R: The Principal, Ansarudeen Grammar School, Mr. Habeeb Badru;
at the Valedictory/Award Ceremony of Ansarudeen Grammar School Randle Avenue held Surulere, Lagos... recently
and Alex Enumah in Abuja
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), yesterday, reinvited a former governor of Sokoto State, Senator Aminu Tambuwal, for questioning in respect of a “total cash withdrawal” to the tune of N189 billion, during his tenure as governor of the state.
According to a source, Tambuwal, a serving senator, arrived the headquarters of the anti-graft agency in Abuja, around 11.30am yesterday morning and was taken in forTheinterrogation. source further hinted that Tambuwal “will be spend- ing the night with us” until in- vestigation is through, adding: “We are asking him to account for the cash withdrawal.
“The withdrawals are in clear violation of the Money Laundering Act,” the source said, adding that the investi- gation had been ongoing for months.
If found guilty, the 2023 presidential aspirant of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) might be prosecuted for fraud.
Meanwhile, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has kicked against alleged selective investigations by the EFCC, accusing it of behaving like a political hit squad for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
ADC warned that the dangerous trend was eroding public trust in EFCC and undermining the real fight against corruption.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, ADC said EFCC’s recent pattern of action, re-opening closed cases, digging up files from years past, and targeting members of opposition parties was not
the work of an impartial anti- graft body, but the tactic of a politicalAccordingenforcer. to Abdullahi, several senior members of the opposition coalition have of late received EFCC summons that were clearly politically motivated.
“These are not fresh cases arising from new evidence but new files opened in reaction to emergent political affiliations to intimidate key opposition figures,” he Abdullahisaid.explained that EFCC was created to be a fearless defender of the Nigerian people’s trust, applying the law evenly to all, friend or foe, ruling party or opposition.
He stressed, “Today, that vision appears to have been compromised. The Com- mission now operates like a department of the APC, deployed to fight government critics and opposition figures thereby achieving what the government cannot achieve through public debate.”
Abdullahi stated, “We have observed how investigations into ruling party allies quietly fade away while opposition figures are dragged before the court of public opinion with sometimes decade-old allegations that have been hastily revived and dressed up as fresh evidence. This is selective prosecution, and selective prosecution is the death of justice.
“It does appear that in today’s Nigeria, one’s guilt or innocence depends on one’s party membership, not evidence. For example, since a certain former governor defected to the APC with his state’s entire political machin- ery, the EFCC’s investigations into his administration have vanished from public view.
Not a question has been asked.
“Not a document leaked.
Not a single update. Yet the same EFCC still somehow find means to reopen old cases against opposition leaders and pursue the stale allegations against them.
‘’It does not augur well for the EFCC if people think that all you need to point the
vital contributor, accounting for roughly 29 per cent of our total agricultural exports and 5.6 per cent of non-oil exports overall.”
He said the federal govern- ment remained committed to agricultural sustainability, value addition, and global trade standards.
He said the administration of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda was creating an enabling environment that catalyses public-private partnerships, empowering communities, and driving a greener, and more prosperous Nigeria.
Uzoma noted that at the heart of the discussion was the EUDR, which prohibits the import of cocoa and other commodities linked to deforestation after December 2020.
However, the EU had provided a deadline extension to help countries like Nigeria adapt to the new regulations.
He explained that the new regulation required traceability, due diligence, and proof of deforestationfree supply chains, reinforcing environmental stewardship.
According to him, EUDR aligns with Nigeria’s green economy agenda, advancing its goals to combat climate change, preserve biodiversity, and build resilient agricultural systems. It also drives innovation in traceability technologies
accusing hands of the Com- mission in your direction is to stand opposed to the ruling party and all that it takes for protection is to align with the government.“Unfortunately, this is the widely established perception in Nigeria today, which the
such as blockchain and satellite mapping, while enabling stronger farmer support programmes that promote sustainable practices and higher yields without encroaching on forests.
The presidential adviser pointed out that Nigeria’s cocoa production supports over 300,000 smallholder farmers, who produce ap- proximately 80 per cent of the country’s output and contribute about six per cent to the global supply.
In the 2023/2024 season, Africa produced 3.151 million metric tons of cocoa, with Nigeria accounting for 320,000 tonnes and aiming to increase production to 500,000 tons by 2025 through targeted interventions.
He said the figures not only underscored the scale of opportunity but also the urgency to explore and invest in cocoa production in the country.Nevertheless, Uzoma said, “We must also confront the realities. While progress has been made, more needs to be done to fully establish effective compliance mechanisms.
“This underscores the importance of the extensive engagements held since December 2024 to align stakeholders and chart a clear path forward.
“Financing constraints remain a key challenge, with funding gaps limiting
commission by its recent ac- tions, including the ongoing surreptitious harassment of opposition leaders, has given credence to.”
ADC called on Nigerians, civil society organisations, and the independent media to resist the dangerous slide into dictatorship and misuse of public institutions to achieve partisan objectives.
production growth, quality improvement, and compliance readiness.
“The Nigerian Agricultural Development Fund (NADF), though well-intentioned, is under significant budgetary strain. It is therefore important to note the potential value of innovative financing options, such as a dedicated cocoa sector credit line with flexible repayment terms, to provide timely and adequate support.”
According yo him, EUDR compliance presents transformative opportunities for Nigeria’s cocoa industry.
He said by “prioritising local processing, we can create jobs, retain more value within our borders, and shift from raw exports to high-value products such as chocolate, beverages, and cocoa butter.
“Revitalising aging plantations could deliver up to 50 per cent higher yields, reduce pressure on forests, and equip farmers with climate-smart practices.
“These advancements also position Nigeria to tap into climate finance and carbon credit schemes, potentially attracting significant international funding for eco-friendly initiatives, while engaging our youth in agribusiness as part of an inclusive growth strategy.
“To fully realise this vision, we are exploring options for effective partnerships to deploy digital compliance tools,
The ADC spokesman stated, “The EFCC does not belong to the APC. It belongs to the Nigerian people. It is funded by taxpayers, not the ruling party.”
farmer mapping systems, and traceability infrastructure that empower smallholders.
“We also welcome greater participation from private investors in the development of cocoa processing zones, where innovation and opportunity will combine to build sustainable, competitive supplyUzomachains.” said, “With our rich heritage in cocoa, producing an average of nearly 320,000 tons annually over the past decades, and a clear policy roadmap, we are poised to lead in sustainable agribusiness.
“Let us forge a new era of strategic partnership where Nigerian cocoa becomes a global symbol of sustainability, innovation, and shared prosperity.
“Together, we can build a deforestation-free future that uplifts farmers, protects forests, and strengthens trade ties across continents.”
Essentially, the EUDR aimed at ensuring that products placed on the EU market are deforestation-free. To comply, Nigerian cocoa farmers need to implement robust traceability systems and due diligence procedures to prove their cocoa is deforestation-free, including measures to track the origin of their cocoa beans and verify that the land used for production was not recently deforested.
L-R: Ace broadcaster, Modele Sharafa-Yusuf; Chairman, Nigeria Premier Football League, Gbenga Elegbeleye; Minister of State for Industry, John
Enoh; the
former Governor, Lagos State, Babatunde Fashola; Chairman, National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko; Senior Advocate of Nigeria, AbdulHakeem U.
and Nigeria football legend, Segun Odegbami during the public book presentation of Alao’s autobiography at the University of Lagos in
Alex Enumah in Abuja
Five persons linked to the June 5, 2022, attack on St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State, were yesterday arraigned before a Federal High Court in Abuja.
The five men were arraigned by the federal government on a nine-count criminal charge bordering
videos that have since gone viral on social media.
According to Ibom Air, the passenger was removed from the ramp and taken into custody by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) security (AVSEC) and handed over to the Nigeria Police Force for further investigation.
The airline said it has since submitted a report on the incident to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and placed a travel restriction on Emmanson, whom it said will no longer be permitted to fly on any of its aircraft.
“Ibom Air reiterates its zero-tolerance policy towards any form of unruly or violent conduct that threatens the safety of passengers, crew, or equipment. Such behavior will be met with the strongest possible response, including legal action and permanent restriction from our services.
“We commend the bravery and professionalism of our crew in handling this situation under extremely challenging circumstances, as well as the swift support from airport security and the Nigeria Police. Safety remains our highest priority.
“We urge all passengers to comply with crew instruc- tions at all times for the safety, security, and comfort of everyone on board,” the airline also said.
NCAA Reacts
on alleged terrorism.
Over 40 persons were reportedly killed in the attack, while over 100 individuals sustained injuries.
The defendants which included Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza, Al Qasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, Abdulhaleem Idris and Momoh Otuho Abubakar, were in the charge, marked:
Reacting to the incident, the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, NCAA, Michael Achimugu, said that travelers cannot continue to refuse to comply with safety regulations because safety is forHeeveryone. said there should be more deterrent measures against unruly passengers to discourage such incidents that have become a habit in Nigeria among travelers, insisting that passengers cannot disobey the rules in Nigeria which they humbly obey abroad.
Achimugu said the regulatory authority will have to devise punitive measures to curtail the flagrant abuse of regulations by passengers in air travel in Nigeria.
“We cannot continue to refuse to comply with air travel regulations. Safety is for all. We need to improve the speed/quality of response to unruly passenger behaviour and other security situations at the airports. You cannot disobey rules in Nigeria that you obey
FHC/ABJ/CR/301/2025, accused among others, of being members of Al Shabab terrorist group, with cell in Kogi State.
In the suit filed by the Department of State Service (DSS), the defendants were also alleged to have carried out the attack in furtherance of their religious ideology. However, the defendants
“Robustabroad.ramifications and enforcement actions will become the order of the day. More sensitisation and passenger responsibility education will be done, but we all have a responsibility to do what is right. All (aviation) agencies need to look inward and tighten up loose ends,” Achimugu said in a post he made on X concerning the incident.
denied all the nine-count charge read against them, following which the prosecution lawyer, Calistus Eze, prayed the court to order their remand in the DSS’ custody pending commence- ment of trial.
While not opposing the request, lawyer representing the defendants, Abdullahi Muhammad prayed the
f l I g HT
Security personnel.
However, THISDAY learnt that Emmanson was sent to Kirikiri Correctional Centre in Lagos State following her arraignment by the police.
This was disclosed by the Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Tunde Moshood.
After she was arrested at the tarmac of the domestic terminal, MMA2, she was first taken to the police station at the General Aviation Terminal (GAT) and later to the police station located at Beesam, which is a bigger facility. It was from there she was finally taken to Kirikiri Correctional Centre.
Video evidence showed that Emmanson did not show any contrition; rather, she continued to fight Aviation Security officials who arrested her, even while she was in the bus conveying her from the airport to the police stations. She dragged one AVSEC official closer to herself where she was sitting down in the Toyota Coaster bus and tore his top, as he was struggling to free himself from her and at the same time avoiding any physical confrontation with her.
While on the tarmac, she also attacked the ground crew of Ibom Air and Aviation
“The more reason the flying public should be more careful, the unruly passenger on UyoLagos bound Ibom Air, Miss Comfort Emmanson has been charged to court and she’s now cooling off in Kirikiri,” Moshood said.
Meanwhile, AON has condemned the unruly behavior of the passenger and has announced that she will be banned from flights operated by Nigerian commercial airlines indefinitely because of her unscrupulous action.
In a statement signed by the spokesman of AON who is also the Chairman
the SOLID Project is expected to benefit up to 7.4 million people, of which up to 1.3 million individuals are identified as IDPs.
The project, it said, will be implemented through a coordinated, communitydriven approach involving all tiers of government, with strong partnerships from international stakeholders.
By bridging the gap between emergency relief and long-term development, SOLID, the World Bank said, aims to help Northern Nigeria transition from crisis response
court to order the DSS to allow members of the defendants’ families and their lawyers to have access to them.
According to Muhammad, the defendants have been in custody since 2022, when they were arrested and have not had access to family members and lawyers.
Responding, Eze informed
of United Nigeria Airlines, Obiora Okonkwo, AON said: “We condemn the violent incident involving Ms. Comfort Emmanson, a passenger on Ibom Air flight Q9 303 from Uyo to Lagos on August 10, 2025.
“We reviewed the detailed statement issued by Ibom Air regarding the incident and we commend the airline for its swift and professional handling of this unfortunate event and fully endorse the actions taken.
“The incident which Ibom Air described, from the initial refusal by the passenger to comply with safety instructions regarding mobile phone usage which led to the brutal physi- cal assault on Ibom Air crew
the court that it was the standard practice that detainees’ family members and lawyers should be granted access after a formal written request.
He noted that it has become inevitable at this stage that the defendants be allowed access to their lawyers to enable them prepare their defence.
members and the attempted use of a fire extinguisher as a weapon, constitutes one of the most severe cases of unruly passenger behaviour witnessed this year,” the organisation said.
The airline operators also noted that her action was not just disruptive but a sustained, violent attack that placed the lives of crew, passengers, and the integrity of the aircraft itself at risk.
“This behaviour is unacceptable. Therefore, effective immediately, the AON has placed Ms. Emmanson on its ‘No Fly’ list indefinitely. She is hereby banned from flying with any AON member either domestically or internationally for life.
to stability, resilience, and inclusive growth.
“This operation is central to tackling the enduring displacement crisis in Northern Nigeria. It reflects the urgency of addressing infrastructure gaps and service delivery challenges in host communities that were already strained before the influx of displaced populations.
“It will provide targeted livelihood support to help both displaced and host populations achieve sustain- able economic outcomes,” said Task Team Leaders for
The Nigerian govern- ment, in collaboration with humanitarian agencies, has made efforts to provide relief, including food distribution, temporary housing, and medical care, although insecurity often restricts aid workers’ access to remote areas, and funding gaps limit the scale and consistency of assistance. In the same vein, resettlement and reintegration plans have faced delays, as many communities remain unsafe or destroyed.
Marshall Anifowoshe, the Fuji maestro, Talazo Fuji exponent, popularly known as KWAM 1 or K1 De Ultimate. There is no doubt that he is a legend in his chosen field, he is a gifted musician, who has infused his artistry with entrepreneurship and created a brand that is unique in its originality. The only problem that the critics of this musical genius claim he has is his arrogance, his fabled lack of humility. He once openly disrespected the Oluwo of Iwo, His Royal Majesty, Telu I. On another occasion during the burial ceremonies in honour of his mother, he reportedly insulted the Muslim clerics who had come to his residence in Ijebu Ode to commiserate with him. He spoke to them as if they were beggars looking for hand-outs. He was advised to apologise. He never did. It was this same haughty attitude that he took to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on August 5. He wanted to board a Lagos-bound Value Jet flight, but airport officials at the foot of the aircraft told him he could not carry a flask containing water, alcohol, or whatever on board and he was asked to drop the flask. KWAM 1 refused. Rather than co-operate with the airline officials, he forced the issue to a point where the pilot had to come to him, with other officials. In an account by the Captain, Ranti Ogoyi, KWAM 1 asked her: “Do you know who I am?” and proceeded to splash the content of the flask he was carrying on her and others. It must have been an ugly scene even at that point. How many of us travel up and down, here and there, and speak of having a direct encounter with the pilot? For the Captain of a flight to leave the cockpit and directly engage a passenger, that must have been an unusual situation indeed. What is the special thing about this flask? KWAM I is more than comfortable enough he could have handed over the flask to anybody around and buy another one. He is a leader in his chosen career, in his community and in the larger society. He failed the leadership test. He failed the test of maturity. The confrontation between the passenger and the airline officials went South quickly, and rather histrionically. The pilot went to the cockpit and started the engine ready to take off. KWAM 1 who had been prevented from boarding the plane went in front of it, trying to block it from flying, resulting in a potential dance macabre. KWAM 1 is a well-travelled, well exposed man. He knows definitely that what he tried on August 5, if
he had tried it anywhere abroad, he would be cooling his heels in a detention centre right now, waiting to be sent to jail. Nigerian big men misbehave only when they are in Nigeria. They act as if they are above the law, untouchable, because they know people in powerful places. Otunba KWAM 1 is to a large extent an official entertainer of the ruling APC and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The politics of association easily gets into people’s heads in Nigeria, and hence, many act with impunity.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development was right to have described the ValueJet vs KWAM 1 incident as a moment of insanity. As he ruled, KWAM 1 was wrong to have disrupted airline operations and to have assaulted airline staff. He violated Sections of the enabling Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority Act (section 30 for example) and Section 459 (a) of the Criminal Code. Trying to block an aircraft that was planning to take off is clearly an attempt to commit suicide, punishable under Section 327 of the Criminal Code and Section 231 of the Penal Code as well. It had to take the intervention of Minister Keyamo insisting that what is good for the goose is good for the gander for KWAM 1 to be sanctioned at all: a six-month no fly ban within the Nigerian airspace for the next six months, pending investigations. The pilot already had her licence suspended for six months. Were it not for Keyamo’s intervention, KWAM 1, who should have been arrested on the
Do YI n Ab I ol A , TrulY Exc E p TI on A l! such as Sam Omatseye as deputy, Victor Ifijeh, Olusegun Adeniyi, Louis Odion and Gboyega Amobonye, popularly called “Governor with unlimited mandate.”
Following the team’s excellent coverage of several political news stories including Gideon Okar’s failed coup against Babangida’s regime in 1990; our accurate prediction of Sir Michael Otedola as the next Governor of Lagos State in 1991- even when the then National Electoral Commission (NEC) was still counting the votes; the formation and eventual dissolution of political parties such as People’s Solidarity Party (PSP), the People’s Front (PF), and Liberal Convention (LC); the imposition of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and National Republican Convention (NRC) by Babangida’s regime; the visits to United Kingdom and the United States to report on the elections of John Major as Prime Minister and Bill Clinton as President respectively; the proposed publication of “EXCLUSIVE” on the Armed Forces Ruling Council (AFRC) meeting on proscription of June 12 election result in the Sunday Concord that almost led to the assas- sination of the Editor, Dele Alake on Airport road by the regime’s goons, she would later remark to me, “You’ve never disappointed me.” And with the backing of our main editor then, Nsikak Essien (National Concord Editor), the sky was our limit.
Few months prior, she had started what was thought to be impossible — Nigeria’s first Saturday Newspaper. This was achieved using another great star of the journalism profession, Mike Awoyinfa. Egbon Mike was my former features editor and I worked as a senior staff writer under him. He had been redeployed
spot and walked straight into detention would have just escaped with his impunity. While it is noteworthy that both he and the pilot have been upbraided, the investigation should now focus on the behaviour of the ground staff. How on earth did KWAM 1 get to the aircraft in the first place? Any traveller is subjected to at least two security checks before getting to the foot of the airport. All the officials who passed KWAM 1 through the security checks must be identified and sanctioned. He has now issued an apology, and even waxed a chorus begging for forgiveness. His supporters are saying “to err is human to forgive is divine”. No, please. Nobody should seek to resolve this matter with that cliché. God has nothing to do with this. The apology is not acceptable. KWAM I must be duly sanctioned and charged to court. His fans must even be angry that he was trying to commit suicide. He wants to waste all that talent by simply being unreasonable? He has set a very bad example as a leader, anyone else could behave just as badly, and apologise, cite K1’s example, and we are all supposed to echo the cliché that to forgive is divine?
The danger in this is what happened five days later, August 10, 2025, on an Ibom Air flight from Uyo to Lagos. A lady now identified as Comfort Emmanson refused to switch off her phone when the purser directed all passengers to do so. Another passenger had to snatch the phone away from her and switched it off. Safety is the primal consideration in aviation. Every passenger is required, and expected to respect and observe safety protocols. Ms Emmanson refused. She started quarrelling. But with her phone switched off by force, the flight headed towards Lagos. Upon arrival in Lagos, she reportedly attacked the cabin crew and gave the purser dirty slaps for having the effrontery to insist that she must switch off her phone. She even tried to grab the fire extinguisher in the plane to hit the cabin crew lead. The pilot had to call airport security. She was detained by the cabin crew till the arrival of the airport security. She fought back but she was disgraced. She was dragged down by force from the aircraft, and in the process her nakedness was exposed and video-recorded. She was not even wearing a bra. There is something called the Free-The-Nipple Movement in Europe and elsewhere to promote body positivity, but this is not Europe, this is Nigeria where ladies are expected in our culture to dress decently. By the time Emmanson’s ripe
mammary glands had been exposed for the whole world to see, (viewer’s discretion advised) one Good Samaritan eventually gave her a shirt to cover her shame. This is supposed to be someone’s daughter, someone’s sister, someone’s future wife. But that was not the eventual punishment she received. She has since been remanded in Kirikiri prison. She is being referred to as KWAM 2, the protégé of the ace musician, but while the musician has since returned to active duties, even turning the incident into an opportunity for mirth, Ms. Emmanson is in prison. The Airline Organisation of Nigeria (AON) has slammed her with a lifetime no-fly ban, without any investigation, or trial. She has been summarily convicted without anybody hearing her own side of the story, in contravention of her rights under Section 35 of the 1999 Constitution. In the business of being “big” in Nigeria, there is an Animal Kingdom hierarchy when things go wrong. K1 the Ultimate should be in an opposite cell. But he is free. The cinematographic evidence against Ms. Emmanson is incomplete. Her dehumanization and torture appear excessive. However, the matter was better resolved by a post on the Instagram handle of @IgboAmakaah where a certain Dr. Zo, speaking from a medical point of view, opines that if Otunba Ayinde Wasiu Marshall had behaved as he did in the United States, he would have been taken straight to a psychiatric hospital, and every attempt on his part to argue would have resulted in an extension of his stay in the mental facility, by a minimum of a month. It would be too much of a burden on the state to ask that anyone travelling by air in Nigeria should be subjected to a drug or psychiatric test. And let no one insist that KWAM 1 deserves preferential treatment because he is a legend and a star. There must be the equality of persons under the law. Creative persons may not necessarily be good persons but they are required to respect the same laws made for everybody. Sean “Diddy” Combs, 55, is an American rapper and one of the wealthiest and most influential musical artists in the world. He has been incarcerated at the Metropolitan Detention Centre in Brooklyn, without bond or bail, for more than a year. He is awaiting sentencing in a two-count charge of “Transportation to engage in prostitution.” Festus Keyamo, SAN does not need to be reminded that there is equality of persons before the law, what is “good for the goose is good for the gander” or that justice administration must not be selective.
from Sunday Concord as Assistant Editor to be Features Editor when Ola Amupitan left, and soon after transforming the features pages into a must-read for Nigerians, legendary Mike ascended again to become the editor of the new Saturday Newspaper with the late Dimgba Igwe as his deputy.
The newdpaper was christened Weekend Concord. The Weekend Concord suddenly became Nigeria’s best-selling on the newsstands with its compelling human-angle approach and salacious news story about events and people.
She was not done yet. When the Babangida’s regime floated the idea of privatization of public enterprises in Nigeria, Dr Abiola summoned a select group of editors and editorial board members to a meeting on the need to study and report how it had been done in other countries. Consequently, editors were deployed to different parts of the world — about 20 countries where it had been done. I ended up visiting Mexico to do my own investigation. In the end, a book was produced on that experience, researched and written by Concord editors and senior staff.
She was never a political actor in a strict sense of politics. Her terrain was only the media. However, the annulment of June 12 election, won by her husband, transformed her. When Concord Group of Newspapers was shut down for almost two years by a combination of Babangida and Abacha’s regimes (a whole different story for another day), Dele Alake (then Editor of Sunday Concord and later National Concord), Segun Babatope, Chairman, Editorial Board and myself became her closest allies. It was like a confirmation of the political aphorism, “Never under-estimate a hitherto
seemingly politically disinterested person when confronted with the challenge and reality of power politics.”
With no office to go to following the military barricade, she turned her residential apartment at Moshood Abiola crescent in Ikeja, Lagos to another fortress for us. Every day, the three of us would resume there to debate and work with some notable pro-democracy activists on daily moves while pretending that we were not being monitored by members of the state security service. We were constantly in touch with local and the political exiles like our current President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Her telephone and fax machines were at our beck and call. Sometimes, to shake off security trail, we had to use various decoys to enter and leave her house.
By the time Concord was reopened in early 1996 with Bashorun Abiola still in detention, a lot of advertisers and suppliers deserted us out of fear of General Sani Abacha and his media crackdowns. After being left to bear the brunt, she stood tall as a leader and encouraged us to Delepersevere.Alake resumed as National Concord Editor and I took over as Sunday Concord Editor. And when Alake left to join Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s cabinet in Lagos in 1999, she appointed me the National Concord Editor. We had thought the 1999 return to democracy was the salvation point following the death of our publisher in July 1998, but it was going to be the turning-point for the Newspaper empire. The family politics and antagonism also set in. We needed substantial capital to rejuvenate Concord. Fortunately, there was a significant
asset which Lagos State Water Corporation was interested in and we agreed to sell it with Governor Tinubu’s endorsement. The payment was about to be finalized by the LASG when we saw a caveat emptor from some members of Abiola’s family in some newspapers. That was the end of the transaction. This was followed by several other frustrations. And staff became disillusioned.
In November 2000, I walked up to her office to let her know I was resigning. She became disheartened and asked me to think it through. I asked for a month leave and it was from there I sent in my letter of resignation. My resignation triggered some others. Kayode Komolafe as editor of Sunday Concord also resigned. Two days after learning of my resignation, Publisher of THISDAY, Prince Nduka Obaigena, gave me a call and offered me the Chairmanship of Editorial Board of THISDAY Newspapers. Despite my departure from Concord, I grew even closer to the beloved media empress, Dr. Doyin Abiola, her wonderful only daughter, Doyin, and her husband Bamise. I commiserate with them. And like a chapter in every book, it must have an end. Dr Doyin Abiola has left us to join her great husband, MKO. May her soul rest in perfect peace.
Goodnight, Aunty Doyin!
Goodbye, Mummy Doyin!
*Tunji Bello, Political Scientist, Lawyer and Public Administrator, is former editor of the National Concord and later Chairman, Editorial Board of THISDAY Newspapers, past Secretary to the Lagos State Government and Commissioner for the Environment, is currently the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of FCCPC.
Kunle Adewale
Super Eagles duo of Taiwo Awoniyi and Ola Aina will compete in the next UEFA Europa League starting later next month with Nottingham Forest, after FA Cup winners, Crystal Palace, failed in their legal battle at the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) to overturn a European football ruling.
According to UK’s Times, the ruling by CAS means that Nottingham Forest have been handed the spot earlier reserved for Palace as FA Cup winner.
Palace had taken their case to CAS following a UEFA Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) ruling that they did not meet multi-club ownership compliance requirements by March 1 deadline.
The South London club, fresh from lifting the FA Cup and edging Liverpool in the Community Shield on penalties last Sunday, had hoped to retain a Europa League berth.
However, CAS rejected their appeal, leaving Palace with a place in the Europa Conference League instead.
The verdict represents a financial and sporting blow, as the Europa League offers higher prize money and greaterPalaceprestige. are understood to
be reviewing the ruling in detail and are considering whether to pursue further legal avenues, potentially including compensation claims.
Forest, who had initially finished in a Conference League spot after a stuttering end to a rather impressive Premier League campaign,
have been handed a major boost. Participation in the Europa League could provide Nuno Espirito Santo’s squad with a lucrative opportunity to attract top players and deepen their squad ahead of a challenging season involving four competitions.
The club has already been busy in the transfer market,
sealing deals for Jair Cunha and Igor Jesus from Botafogo, Dan Ndoye from Bologna, and goalkeeper Angus Gunn. Forest beat away several of Europe’s top clubs to commit Nigeria’s Ola Aina to a new deal. The former Torino and Chelsea defender is now tied to Forest until 2028, with the versatile full-back now set to
the club to the lower Europa Conference League...yesterday
For securing a spot in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, has gifted players of his club, Barau FC, 35 motorcycles and N17.5million.
He announced the donation yesterday during a reception in honour of the club’s players and manage- ment in Kano. The club recently gained promotion from the Nigeria National League (NNL) to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
Each of the 35 players was gifted a brand new motorcycle and N500,000 for the feat. The ceremony also witnessed the unveiling of the club’s latest Technical Adviser, Ladan Bosso.
Senator Barau, in a statement by his Special Adviser
on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, showered encomium on the players and the club’s management, challenging them to bring home the Premier League title.
“There is no doubt the club have witnessed a remarkable
achievement within a short period. From Academy to NLO, from NLO to NNL and from there to this great milestone of the Premier League. Your success is a victory for the Nigerian youth. We can’t thank you enough,” he said.
Senator Barau added that his dream is to see the team on the continental stage by next year and some of the club’s players playing in the world’s best international clubs.
Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau I. Jibrin (centre), flanked by players and managers of his football club, Barau FC at the reception he
for team following their promotion to play in the Nigeria Premier
(NPFL) in Kano...yesterday
play a leading role in their European campaign.
Nottingham Forest have also joined Arsenal and Inter Milan in the race to sign Super Eagles and Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman. Lookman could be more open to switching to a club that plays Europa League football than one in
the Conference League. Meanwhile, Awoniyi will face stiff competition for the No 9 role from Chris Wood and new arrival Igor Jesus. However, the former Union Berlin striker’s physical pres- ence and proven Premier League scoring ability mean he remains a key figure in the squad.
Nigeria’s credentialsbounce-back-ability on the football field will again be subjected to a stern test when the homebased senior men national team, Home-based Eagles, take on Sudan’s Falcons of Jediane in a must-win 8th Africa Nations Championship Group D encounter in Zanzibar this evening at 6pm Nigerian time.
Title-holders Senegal scored with their only shot on goal with only a quarter-hour left in the two teams’ clash on Tuesday last week, rendering today’s clash with the Sudanese a win-or-wind-up
for the Super Eagles B. Venue is the same 15,000 -capacity Amaan Stadium on the island of Zanzibar where the 2018 runners-up fell to their West African rivals. Head Coach Eric Chelle admitted after last Tuesday’s setback that his charges must go into clear-eyed overdrive to cut the feathers of the Falcons and go ahead to drive Congo’s Devils into the ditch a week later, to stand any realistic chance of making it to the knockout rounds in the rather irregular 19-nation finals.
Bet9ja, Nigeria’s leading sports betting platform, has announced heavyweight boxing sensation, Moses Itauma, as its newest brand ambassador.
The deal was confirmed ahead of Itauma’s headline fight against Dillian Whyte in Saudi Arabia, marking a powerful statement of national pride and ambition.
Born to a Nigerian father and now one of the most
exciting talents in global boxing, Itauma’s heritage, strength, and relentless drive make him a perfect symbol for the Bet9ja brand. Already, unbeaten in 12 professional fights with 10 knockouts and the WBO Intercontinental and WBA International championship titles around his waist, Itauma is tipped to become a global sports icon, a journey Bet9ja is proud to support.
Young table tennis talents from across Nigeria will undergo an intensive two-day coaching clinic to kick off the 6th edition of the annual Adegboyega Efunkoya National Cadet Table Tennis Championships, scheduled to run from today, Tuesday, August 12 to Saturday, 16 at the National Stadium and Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall, Teslim Balogun
Stadium, Lagos. Organised by the Efunkoya Sports Founda- tion in collaboration with the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF), the U-15 tournament aims to discover and nurture young talents through modern coaching techniques and competitive play. The participants are expected to emerge from states and clubs across the country.
2025 FiRST QUARTER pRESS BRiEFinG on non oiL EXpoRT...
L-R: Director, State Offices Coordinating Department, Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Mr. Arnold Udoh Jackson; Director of Corporate Services Department, NEPC, Mrs. Esther Ikporah; Executive Director/CEO, NEPC, Mrs. Nonye Ayeni; and Director, Solid Mineral Department, NEPC, Mr.
The biggest affliction that Nigerians suffer from, individually and collectively, is encapsulated in the common, familiar saying: “Do you know who I am?” It is a statement, a question, rooted in a feeling of superiority towards the other to whom it is directed, a subtle reminder that the person speaking is important, a big man or a big woman, who feels entitled to be treated differently, specially, a kind of demand for respect, preferential treatment and submission. By asking the question, the speaker is also invariably registering a protest, and he/she feels the need for self-assertion. This claim of superiority and request for recognition could be at any level in the Nigerian society, where status is taken seriously and some people would go to any length to remind a compatriot that they are luckier in terms of fortune.
Among the lower class, living in communal settings, otherwise known as “face-me-I-face-you”, the usually congested eight-room or six-room bungalow occupied by eight families, sharing one
kitchen, one toilet, one bathroom, or perhaps a storey-building of the same orientation upstairs, there is even a sense of hierarchy which is uniquely Nigerian, in the midst of such poverty. The man who manages to buy a small generator, of no
more than N50, 000, and can afford to buy petrol to power it is an “I-better-pass-my-neighbour” tenant. He is a big man. He may end up snatching the neighbour’s wife or even the landlord’s wife, because if there is no electricity supply in the building, he alone can decide who can enter his room to watch television. But the bigger man in the compound would be that person who owns a car, no matter how miserable the contraption may be. Nobody in the local neighourhood would dare take such a person for granted. He is a big man too and he naturally acts like one, even if his jalopy requires the assistance of young boys to jump-start it on a daily basis. The big man syndrome, expressed as “Do you know who I am?” comes from a deep-seated place of psychological inadequacy, a compensatory mechanism for a lack of fulfilment.
It occurs in varying degrees. The issue may not be material possession, it could be education, exposure, family pedigree, or the fact of association with an important person or organisation.
EST COL um NIST
The phrase “Gentlemen of the Press” used for both male and female journalists, has no known origin. But it became popularised following the 1929 American film by Walter Huston who portrayed the life of a professional journalist deprived of joy of ordinary life due to the exigencies of duty.
So, with time, the phrase acquired a universal application in public discourse as a form of greeting where journalists are gathered. And despite the heroic efforts of “Women Liber” in the profession, the phrase has endured as standard greeting at press gatherings.
Ibadan with her employment as Features Editor of then powerful Daily Times at Kakawa in Lagos Island.
By the time I joined the profession fresh from National Youth Service in October 1985, Dr Doyin Abiola had become one of its leading lights. With a Ph.D from the famous New York University, she was the Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief of Concord Group of Newspapers, arguably the leading publication in Nigeria’s media industry where I began.
But the irony is that those who try to act “big” end up being exposed for their smallness, and the hollowness of their pretensions. They may be quick to anger or act in strange manners, but when they are brought down to earth the stigma sticks. In a society like ours where almost everyone has demons they are managing, there are more than enough persons who will confront the big man or woman who oversteps his bounds, and they would easily retort: “Who the hell are you?”, “I don’t care who you are, do you too know who I am?” In the course of the heated exchange, so much misconduct follows, including assault and violence. Both parties lose their sanity.
Within the last week, there were two incidents in the aviation industry that clearly illustrate this behavioural tendency among Nigerians, and from which others may draw useful lessons. The first is the incident involving Otunba Wasiu Ayinde
ladder, I saw her as a super boss who was exceptional in professional creativity and in providing editorial leadership. She was a great risk-taker in the profession and was never afraid when it came to competition and professional judgement.
Surely, there are great women of the profession in history whose footprints far overshadow such gender murmurs and whose solid contributions belie any claim to male superiority. One of such exemplars was Dr. Doyin Abiola (née Aboaba), wife of our national hero Bashorun M.K.O Abiola,
winner of the 1993 June 12 presidential election that gave birth to Nigeria’s present democracy. She had joined the journalism profession in 1970 with a degree from the prestigious University of
In my first two years in the Concord newsroom, I never came into personal contact with her. At best, our encounters were from afar: either that I was walking past her along the boardroom corridor or while in conversations with our senior editors. Of course, I was obliged to greet her with reverence.
But as time rolled by and I stepped up the
I was just six months in the position of Assistant Features Editor in 1989 when I was summoned to her office.“Tunji,” she asked, “the management is thinking of making you the Group Political Editor, but some senior editors are saying you are too young for such a role at almost 28.”. My reply was, “Why don’t you give me a trial first?” Hearing me out, she replied, “Ok, we shall go ahead.”
We went on to set up a Political Desk of brilliant minds, who later became media stars,
abati1990@gmail.com Continued on page 22 Continued on page 22