TUESDAY 23TH DECEMBER 2025 by THISDAY Newspapers Ltd

Frontline Accountant, Odu of Onitsha, Arthur Mbanefo Dies at 95 Late nonagenarian was Nigeria’s UN representative

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

One of Nigeria’s foremost

accountants and a towering figure in the country’s professional and corporate landscape,

Arthur Christopher Mbanefo, yesterday died at the age of 95, THISDAY has learnt.

A distinguished Nigerian accountant, diplomat, educational administrator and elder

statesman, his passing marks Continued on page 10

Idris: Death Penalty for Kidnappers Consistent with Nigeria’s Law... Page 8

The late Mbanefo

Tuesday 23 December, 2025 Vol 30. No 11216. Price: N400

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UT H

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Tinubu Satisfied with Fubara’s Responsible Leadership in Rivers, Declares Nuhu Ribadu Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Group Chairman, Heirs Holdings and United Bank for Africa (UBA), Mr. Tony Elumelu (Middle); Visiting Bipartisan United States Congressmen led by Congressman Bill Huizenga and Congresswoman Sarah Jacobs; CEO, OANDO, Wale Tinubu; CEO, Transcorp Plc, Owen Omogiafo, flanked by leading private sectors leaders, at the meeting of US Congressmen and Nigeria’s private sectors leaders, hosted by Mr. Elumelu, deepening bilateral ties and advancing shared economic priorities, in Abuja on Sunday

National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, said President Bola Tinubu was pleased with Continued on page 10

In Joint Operation, Nigeria, US Begin Mapping of Terrorist Enclaves Nationwide Military, police order massive deployment of personnel, assets for crime-free Yuletide

NOVA BANK OPENS REGIONAL OFFICE, POISED TO REDEFINE BANKING LANDSCAPE...

Story on page 10

L-R: Chief (Barr.) Chukwuma Uchenna Ekomaru, SAN, and his wife, Her Excellency, Lady Chinyere Ihuoma Ekomaru; Deputy Governor of Imo State, His Excellency Distinguished Senator Hope Odidika Uzodimma, Governor of Imo State; Mr. Philips Oduoza, Chairman, NOVA Bank; and Esther Adino, Group Head, Commercial Banking Group, at the inauguration ceremony of NOVA Bank’s South-East/South-South regional headquarters… recently

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THISDAY • TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2025

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

NEWS

LAGOS STATE SECURITY TRUST FUND OFFICE COMPLEX FOR A SECURED LAGOS...

L-R: Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; philanthropist, Chief Kessington Adebutu; his wife, Mrs. Kofoworola Adebutu; and Secretary to the State Government, Barr. ‘Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, during the groundbreaking ceremony of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF) office complex at the CBD, Alausa, Ikeja, yesterday

Oyedele Declares Controversial Tax Documents in Circulation Fake Says only vetting of gazetted, harmonised legislation can determine alleged alterations Declares implementation delays will leave bottom 90 per

cent of workers overtaxed; lack of exemptions for small businesses, others Insists new tax regime will lessen burden of tax on small businesses, others

James Emejo in Abuja Chairman, Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, yesterday declared the controversial tax regulations currently in circulation as fake. There had been allegations that the reform documents recently signed by President Bola Tinubu into law were different from what the National Assembly had passed. But Oyedele, in an interview in Channels Television, said any allegations over alterations of the original tax laws passed as passed by the National Assembly could only be established both the gazetted documents are compared with the harmonised version of the Senate and House of Representatives. Oyedele, said though he had seen the gazetted copy “but

we do not have the officially harmonised bill certified by the Clerk of the National Assembly and transmitted to the President.” “What has been circulating widely—reported by several media organisations—is fake. “When I saw those materials, I took a very keen interest. I reached out to a member of the committee set up by the House of Representatives. “One of the circulating documents referenced Section 41, Subsection 8, claiming a 20 per cent deposit requirement. I know that provision is not in the final gazette; it was only in an earlier draft. “So, it made no sense that such a mix-up could occur unless someone circulated a report before the committee had even met.” He said, “What is in the media did not come from the commit-

tee set up by the House. We should allow them to conduct their investigation. Ultimately, this issue is not just about tax reform laws; it’s about process. “We need a system that is almost tamper-proof, similar to how currency or ballot papers are printed. Legislation matters that much.”

Oyedele said, “Let’s get into the specific sections that are being alleged to have been changed. We want to examine them. I’ll start with the Nigeria Revenue Service Act, Section 25, on accounts and audit. “It states that the Service shall keep proper accounts and records, and that such accounts

shall, not later than six months after the end of each year, be audited by auditors appointed by the Board from the list and in accordance with the guidelines supplied by the Auditor-General of the Federation. “Let me make a few very important clarifications. Before anyone can say that there is

a difference between what was gazetted and what was passed, we need to have both documents. At the moment, we have what was gazetted, but we do not have the officially harmonised bill certified by the Clerk of the National Assembly and transmitted to the President. Continues online

SGF Commends Amupitan Over Varsity Award The federal government has congratulated the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, following his conferment with the prestigious “Great Ambassador of the University of Jos” award. In a congratulatory letter personally signed by the

Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, the federal government described the honour as a testament to Amupitan’s lifelong dedication to academic excellence, legal scholarship, and selfless national service. The award, according to a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary/Media Adviser to the INEC Chairman, Adedayo Oketola, was conferred on the INEC boss during the

University of Jos’s landmark 50th Alumni Anniversary and the combined 35th and 36th Convocation Ceremony, held at the university’s main campus in Jos, recently. In the letter, referenced SGF.5/S.4/T/867 and dated 15th December 2025, Akume noted that the recognition by the University of Jos was not merely an alumni gesture but a validation of the chairman’s impact on the nation.

“This prestigious honour is a fitting tribute to your exemplary leadership, sterling public service, and enduring commitment to democratic governance, national development, and institutional integrity,” the SGF stated. The SGF further highlighted that Amupitan’s leadership at the helm of the nation’s electoral umpire had been characterised by a drive for systemic strengthening.

Nigeria Lacks Effective Framework for Successful Agro-Business, Says Origin Group Chair Customs, Mining Marshals Kick

Raheem Akingbolu

Past Nigerian leaders, though invested so well in the distribution of machinery, especially tractors, to farmers, but they fail to build effective systems required to make them productive and profitable, the Chairman, Origin Automobile Works, Mr. Samuel Joseph Samuel has said. Speaking at a media briefing in Lagos to mark the 25th anniversary of the company,

Samuel said replacing manual labour with machines without considering efficiency, training, and maintenance has often resulted in losses rather than gains. “You provide a tractor, but you didn’t teach the farmer how to efficiently use the tractor. That’s a problem. Two, you didn’t teach the farmer how to efficiently use the tractor. You didn’t provide him proper maintenance, where he would get quick support and quick

maintenance,” Samuel said. The chairman highlighted the logistical challenges that undermine tractor-hiring schemes, pointing to the wide dispersion of farms across rural areas. “You put a good tractor in one location. The farmers within that area are five kilometres to 25 to 30 kilometres from each other. If they will pay you N10, you will use N30 to transport the tractor to where I work for them. Will you go? You will not go,” he said.

against Attacks on Security Operatives Security agencies, civil society groups and policymakers have renewed calls for a united national response to the rising attacks on security operatives, warning that continued violence against officers threatens Nigeria’s unity, stability and state authority. The call was made at the Grand Finale and National Security Dialogue of the Second Edition of the Campaign Against Killing of Security Personnel,

held yesterday, in Abuja. Speaking at the event, the National Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Customs Service, Abdullahi Maiwada, said attacks on security personnel were deliberate efforts to weaken state authority and undermine public confidence. Abdullahi, who was represented by Assistant Superintendent of Customs 1, Folusho Adeogun, said: “Across Nigeria today, security personnel are

increasingly exposed to targeted attacks while performing lawful duties. Our officers face threats from smugglers, terrorists and organised criminal networks, particularly in border communities and trade corridors,” He stressed that protecting security operatives requires sustained investment in intelligence, training, technology, welfare and inter-agency collaboration, as well as stronger community engagement.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2025 • THISDAY

NEWS

SWEARING-IN OF THE NEWLY APPOINTED OYSIEC CHAIRMAN AND MEMBERS OF THE COMMISSION...

L-R: Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde; Chairman, Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC), Comrade Adeniyi Babatunde; Chief Kunmi Agboola and other members, during the PHOTO: OYO GOV’S MEDIA UNIT swearing-in of the newly appointed Chairman and members of the Commission, held at Executive Chamber Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Ibadan

ADC Faults 2026 Appropriation Bill, Says It’s ‘Budget of Quicksand, Debts, Wishful Thinking’ Chuks Okocha in Abuja

African Democratic Congress (ADC) yesterday said after carefully reviewing the 2026 Appropriation Bill presented to the National Assembly by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, it came to the conclusion that what was presented was only a consolidation of fiscal recklessness and renewed

wishful thinking. ADC said, ‘’If approved, the only thing this budget is capable of sharing is more debts and greater misery in the years ahead.’’ According to National Publicity Secretary of ADC, Bolaji Abdullahi, the 2026 budget proposal only copied the templates of the failed, unimplemented, and,

perhaps, unimplementable 2024 and 2025 budgets and would most likely end up in the same way, with the bulk of its implementation pushed to another year. Abdullahi stated, ‘’We are witnessing a government that attempts to build a house on quicksand, presenting a new fiscal framework at a time when the 2025 budget

has only just been repealed and re-enacted in a display of unprecedented fiscal chaos and administrative incompetence. ‘’Truth is, Nigeria is caught in a fiscal mess. But rather than confront the problems, the Tinubu administration has continued to kick the can down the streets, believing that they can continue to hide the yawning cracks under

Dangote Cement Unveils Multi-Million-Naira Social Interventions in Gboko Communities Sunday Ehigiator

Dangote Cement Plc, Gboko Plant, has unveiled a multimillion-naira social intervention programme aimed at promoting sustainable economic empowerment and improving livelihoods across its host communities in Benue State. The initiative was announced yesterday, at a ceremony held in Gboko, where the company reaffirmed its commitment to community development in line with a mutually agreed Community Development

Agreement (CDA). Speaking at the event, Head of Social Performance at Dangote Cement Plc, Gboko Plant, Dr. Johnson Kor, said the programmes were conceived and implemented in strict compliance with the provisions of the CDA entered into with six mining communities. Kor said, “In December 2024, Dangote Group signed a Community Development Agreement with the six mining communities, including Mbayion Community, which is our host community. Several

projects were earmarked under the agreement to cover a fiveyear period.” He explained that the company had already executed several projects, while others were at various stages of implementation. They included Women Empowerment Programme, Farmers Empowerment Programme, and Youth Empowerment Programme, all designed to enhance economic opportunities and improve the standard of living in the host communities.

As part of the youth-focused interventions, the company presented certificates and starter packs to 30 graduates of its Youth Skill Development Programme during the ceremony. Kor said the gesture was intended to enable the beneficiaries to immediately apply their acquired skills and become self-reliant.

mountains of unsustainable debts that mortgages the future generation, while they continue to indulge in financial profligacy. ‘’This administration fails to grasp a fundamental economic truth: no amount of monetary tinkering or central bank intervention can rescue an economy if the government refuses to embrace fiscal discipline and budget credibility. ‘’What we have seen under this Tinubu APC administration is a chaotic attempt to implement more than four budgets simultaneously because it lacks the basic competence to close out previous cycles and adhere to its own timelines.’’ Abdullahi further said, ‘’Governments may extend budget implementation period or manage multiple supplementary budgets, but operating three or more national budgets simultaneously is President Tinubu’s original contribution to fiscal chaos. It has never happened before in

this country.’’ ADC said what was most evident was the administration’s penchant for turning fiscal planning into a hollow ritual and political ceremonies that mocked the suffering of the Nigerian people. It stated, ‘’While revenues were pushed to N20 trillion in 2024, a figure driven more by the pains of currency devaluation than by genuine economic productivity, the government had the audacity to double its projections to N40 trillion for 2025 and even raising it to N58.57 trillion in 2026. This is not vision; it is fantasy. ‘’The 2026 budget, which remains dangerously scant on detail, embarks on yet another unsustainable expansion built on a foundation of quicksand. “In an era where oil projections are weakening and global prices are dipping as tensions in Europe show signs of cooling, the federal government has inexplicably set a benchmark of $64 per barrel.

Obi Weighs in on Dangote, Farouk $5m School Fees Allegation, Says Kogi Poly Demotes Deputy Funds Can Transform Basic Education Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Registrar Over Negligence of Duty The presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP) in Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

The Governing Council of Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, has approved demotion the of Mr. Audu Mathew, a deputy registrar, to the rank of Principal Registrar following the allegation of negligence of duty. Just as the council also approved promotion of eleven principal Lecturers to the rank

of Chief Lecturers and five hundred and seventy two (572) other teaching and non-teaching members of staff of the institution. In the same vein, Council approved the termination of the appointment of Mr. Mukhtar Muhammed, an Administrative Officer II for sexual misconduct. Mrs. Funmilayo Afolabi, an Assistant Chief Executive Officer, had her appointment terminated

for absconding from duty for nine months. Earlier in his address, the Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Professor Salisu Usman, expressed appreciation to members of Governing Council for their presence at the meeting, describing it as a clear reflection of their steadfast to the institution’s growth, stability and sound governance.

the 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi, yesterday, offered his perspective on the controversy surrounding allegations that former Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Mr. Farouk Ahmed, spent about $5 million on the secondary education of his children abroad.

Obi said the amount, if invested locally, could have made a significant impact in reducing Nigeria’s out-of-school children population and strengthening the country’s education system. He made the remarks in a post, titled, “The Farouk Controversy and the Question of Public Responsibility,” shared on his official X handle. Obi observed that a businessman Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote

Group, had alleged that Ahmed spent about $5 million on the education of his four children in Switzerland, and had called for a full investigation and public explanation. “At current exchange rates, $5 million is approximately N7.5 billion. In a country with over 18 million out-of-school children — the highest number in the world — such allegations raise questions about proportionality, public trust, and moral responsibility,” Obi wrote.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2025 • T H I S D AY

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2025 • THISDAY

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A cross-section of rescued children in Minna, yesterday

Idris: Death Penalty for Kidnappers Consistent with Nigerian Laws Insists $5.1billion health cooperation with US will save lives

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The federal government has shrugged off opposition by Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and Nigerian Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to the proposed death penalty for kidnappers and bandits, saying the punishment is consistent with Nigerian laws. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, stated the position yesterday in Abuja at the government’s end-of-year press conference. Idris insisted that the federal government would act strictly within its laws and would not do anything that negated the laws of the country. He said, “The Nigerian government will not do anything that is not consistent with the laws of the nation. If there is a need to adapt or to modify these laws, we have the National Assembly to consult and to take them so that we can have a response,

but for now it is important to say that Nigeria as a sovereign country has its laws and is being governed by these laws and all the operators, including the security agencies are acting within the ambit, within the parameters of those laws.” The minister said the new national counterterrorism doctrine, established this year, was anchored on four critical pillars: unified command, intelligence, community stability, and counterinsurgency. He stressed, “Let me be clear about what this means: that henceforth, any armed group that kidnaps our children, attacks our farmers, or terrorises our communities is officially classified and will be dealt with as a terrorist organisation. The era of ambiguous nomenclature is over!” Idris also spoke on the conversation around human rights violations with regard to terrorists. He asserted that he could

not see human rights where somebody, for example, came into a room and randomly started shooting at people. According to Idris, “I don’t know how human rights will stop you first. First, I think it is to defend yourself and

Nigeria has to defend itself as a country, observing the highest standards of procedure. All our Armed Forces are trained, they have no collaboration with the international partners and they are following strict protocols of engagement with

terrorists or whoever they are engaging with. “And I think that we must commend the Nigerian security agencies for observing that but where there are specific issues, I want to believe that the security agencies, the high

command of security agencies, will address those issues. “But for now, I know that they are trained, Nigerian security agencies are well trained, they are also observing strict protocols of engagement.

Gov Sani Signs N985.9bn Kaduna 2026 Appropriation With Education Taking Lion Share John Shiklam in Kaduna Governor Uba Sani has signed the 2026 Appropriation Bill into law, with education taking the largest share of 25 percent of the N985.9 billion budget of Kaduna State. Speaking after signing the document on Monday at the Government House, Kaduna, Sani said the budget reflects his administration’s resolve to consolidate the gains made and as well as lay stronger foundations for sustainable

growth. He said N698.9 billion, representing 70.9 percent of the budget, has been devoted to capital expenditure, targeted at infrastructure development, economic expansion, and improved service delivery. The governor also said “recurrent expenditure stands at N287 billion, representing 29.1 per cent, aimed at ensuring that essential government services continue to function efficiently and responsibly. Giving a breakdown of the budget, the governor said the education sector

got 25 percent of the budget, “because knowledge is the most powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty and securing the future of children.’’ He added that infrastructure and rural transformation also account for 25 per cent, reflecting his administration’s determination to open up communities, connect markets, and stimulate economic activity across the state. He said the health sector was allocated 15 per cent, affirming government’s conviction that a healthy

population is the foundation of productivity and human dignity. “Agriculture and food security receive also 11.65 percent, reinforcing commitment to feeding people, empowering farmers, and strengthening local economy,’’ he said. Sani said his administration “also made deliberate provisions for climate change activities, nutrition, and environmental sustainability, recognising the realities of our time and our responsibility to future generations.’’

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

its attendant consequences on national development and security. In addition, MDAs are to collaborate with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in the conduct of the tests, in tandem with established standards and procedures. The statement directed Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Extra-Ministerial Departments/ Parastatals to subsequently include mandatory drug testing as a core requirement in the

recruitment of new personnel. The directive was contained in a service-wide circular from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, to Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), including extra-Ministerial Departments. Imohiosen said it was in line with the determination of the present administration to decisively tackle the menace of drug and substance abuse, and insulate the national workforce from unwholesome practices.

Nigeria Secures Historic Double as FG Pledges FG Makes Drug Testing Mandatory for World-Class Hosting of Global PR Forum Public Service Applicants Before Employment

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to host a world-class 2026 World Public Relations Forum (WPRF) in Abuja. It described Nigeria’s emergence as host as a major milestone in the nation’s information and communications profile. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, gave the assurance on

Monday at the 2025 Endof-Year Media Engagement held in Abuja. He said Nigeria’s successful bid to host the WPRF ranks among the country’s most significant achievements in the global communications space in the outgoing year. Idris, according to a statement by the NIPR Director of Publicity, Stanley Ogadigo, described the hosting rights as historic. He noted that Nigeria will also host the African Public

Relations Association (APRA) Conference in the same year. According to him, this makes Nigeria the first African country to host the two major public relations events within one calendar year. The minister said, “This unprecedented double hosting is a clear vote of confidence in Nigeria’s growing stature as a hub for responsible communication and strategic public relations in Africa.”

The federal government has approved the introduction of mandatory pre-employment drug testing for prospective applicants into the public service. The Director Information and Public Relations, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Segun Imohiosen, said in a statement yesterday that the measure was part of ongoing efforts to curb the rising menace of illicit drug use and

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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2025 • THISDAY

TEN

Report: Trump Recalling US Envoy to Nigeria, Other Career Diplomats Globally Seeks to end Biden-era ambassadors, reshapes diplomatic posture It’s standard process in any administration, says US Consulate in Nigeria Atlantic Council: To curb violence, America must offer Abuja carrots, not sticks

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Donald Trump administration is recalling nearly 30 career diplomats from ambassadorial and other senior embassy posts, including the country’s envoy to Nigeria, as it moves to reshape the US diplomatic posture abroad with personnel deemed fully supportive of the President’s “America first” priorities. The chiefs of mission in at least 29 countries were informed last week that their

tenures would end in January, according to two state department officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss internal personnel moves, Guardian UK reported. All of them had taken up their posts in the Joe Biden administration, but had survived an initial purge in the early months of Trump’s second term that targeted mainly political appointees. That changed on Wednesday when they began to receive notices from officials in Washington DC about their

imminent departures, the report said. Ambassadors serve at the pleasure of the president, although they typically remain at their posts for between three and four years. Those affected by the shakeup are not losing their foreign service jobs but will be returning to Washington for other assignments should they wish to take them, the officials said. When contacted by THISDAY, the US embassy in Nigeria re-echoed the fact

that envoys serve at the pleasure of the President, describing the ongoing process as ‘standard’. “Any change in ambassador is a standard process in any administration. An ambassador is a personal representative of the President,” the US Consulate in Nigeria said in response to THISDAY’s inquiry. Besides, the state department declined to comment on specific numbers or ambassadors affected, but defended the changes, calling them “a standard process in any

administration”. It noted that an ambassador is “a personal representative of the president and it is the president’s right to ensure that he has individuals in these countries who advance the America First agenda”. Africa is the continent most affected by the removals, with ambassadors from 13 countries being removed, including: Nigeria, Burundi, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Gabon, Côte d’Ivoire, Madagascar, Mauritius, Niger, Rwanda, Senegal, Somalia and Uganda.

Trump Second is the Asia-Pacific region, with ambassadorial changes coming to six countries, including: Fiji, Laos, the Marshall Islands, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines and Vietnam affected. Continues online

IN JOINT OPERATION, NIGERIA, US BEGIN MAPPING OF TERRORIST ENCLAVES NATIONWIDE

Emmanuel Addeh, Olawale Ajimotokan, Linus Aleke in Abuja and Laleye Dipo in Minna with additional reporting from Reuters

Nigeria and the United States have launched a coordinated security operation aimed at dismantling terrorist enclaves across multiple parts of the country, signalling a renewed push to degrade the operational reach of violent extremist groups and restore state authority in affected communities. The joint effort, involving Nigeria’s security agencies and US technical and advisory support, is focused on intelligence-driven raids, surveillance, and disruption of logistics networks believed to sustain insurgent and terror

cells operating in remote and urban locations. THISDAY learnt that the operation is prioritising precision actions during the mapping and surveillance activities and is designed to limit civilian harm while striking high-value targets, with the collaboration building on long-standing defence and counterterrorism ties between both countries. Also yesterday, the military and police authorities announced extensive security measures, including large-scale deployment of personnel and operational assets nationwide, to ensure a peaceful and crime-free celebration. The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) disclosed that the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), working in collaboration with other

security agencies, had intensified operations across the country, particularly in areas assessed as vulnerable to criminals and terrorists’ threats. On the Nigeria-US collaboration, the Donald Trump-led nation is providing advanced intelligence, reconnaissance capabilities, and capacity-building support, with the operation expected to enhance informationsharing across agencies, closing gaps previously exploited by the terrorist groups. The renewed offensive comes amid persistent security challenges linked to terrorism, banditry, and violent extremism, which have strained local economies and displaced thousands. Already, the US has been conducting intelligence-gathering

TINUBU SATISFIED WITH FUBARA’S RESPONSIBLE LEADERSHIP IN RIVERS, DECLARES NUHU RIBADU

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, over what he described as his responsible leadership. Ribadu stated this when he led a presidential delegation, comprising Minister of Works, David Umahi; Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal; Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, Bashir Ojulari; and others, on a courtesy visit to Fubara at Government House, Port Harcourt. The NSA, who described Rivers State as one of the most peaceful states in the country, conveyed Tinubu’s appreciation to the governor. He stated that the peace currently enjoyed in the state was the product of sustained collaboration between state and federal authorities. Ribadu said, with the current turning point in Nigeria, the country would not be what it used to be again. He stressed that things were changing, and it was starting with Ogoniland. Ribadu said the federal government delegation was in Rivers State to consolidate ongoing peace efforts in Ogoniland and to also inspect some of the federal government projects in the state. According to him, Tinubu specifi-

cally directed him to thank Fubara, and express happiness with his leadership style and coordination of the discussion on resumption of oil exploration in Ogoni. Ribadu said, “Particularly, we are here because of the Ogoni part of Nigeria. And we did an incredibly good work together as one. We are here to demonstrate that, to identify with the people and once again to thank them on behalf of Nigeria. “We are happy, today, Rivers State is probably one of the most peaceful states on Nigeria. Your Excellency, you’re entitled to claim it that you’re responsible, that you’re part of it. And the good people of Ogoni, leaders, quality human beings. “We’ve had this amazing opportunity to work with them and I can tell you they are good people, they’re first class. And we have seen progress, development, massive promise for Nigeria and our future. “Ogoni is looking like the turning point for Nigeria today. A new chapter is being opened. Nigeria will not be again what it used to be. Things are changing and it is starting with Ogoni.” Ribadu also told Fubara, “I

want to deliver the message of Mr President to you. He said I should thank you, Your Excellency. He is very happy with you and we are happy with you. “He said I should also thank the people of Ogoniland for the cooperation, for understanding and for giving him chance for him to achieve an amazing…a programme of three decades somehow is standing to be massive opportunity for Nigeria.” The NSA further commended the Rivers State government for providing a campus for the University of Environment as well as accommodating the South-South Zonal Office of the Office of the National Security Adviser. On his part, Umahi described the Ogoni peace initiative as strategic to the renewed unity of Nigeria, stating that the president took a personal interest in the wellbeing of the Niger Delta people. Umahi assured that all sections of the East–West Road traversing the Niger Delta would be completed to standard. He disclosed that in Ogoniland, the 15-kilometre Eleme axis of the East–West Road included Continued on page 19

flights over large parts of Nigeria since late November, according to flight tracking data and current and former US officials, in a sign of increased security cooperation between the countries. But the flights in West Africa follow US President Donald Trump’s threats in November to militarily intervene in Nigeria over what he says is its failure to stop violence targeting Christian communities. The flights also are occurring just months after a US pilot working for a missionary agency was kidnapped in neighbouring Niger. The US contractor-operated aircraft used for the surveillance operations typically takes off from Ghana and flies over Nigeria before returning to Accra, the Ghanaian capital, the tracking data for December showed. Besides, the flight tracking data showed the operator is Mississippi-based Tenax Aerospace, which provides special mission aircraft and works closely with the US military, according to the company’s website. Liam Karr, the Africa Team Lead for the Critical Threats Project at the American Enterprise Institute, who analysed the flight

data told Reuters that the operation appeared to be running out of an airport in Accra, a known hub for the US military’s logistics network in Africa. Karr said the operation was an early sign the US was rebuilding its capacity in the region after Niger ordered US troops to leave a sprawling, newly built air base in the desert last year, and turned instead to Russia for security assistance. “In recent weeks we’ve seen a resumption of intelligence and surveillance flights in Nigeria,” Karr said in an interview. A former US official told Reuters that the aircraft is among several assets the Trump administration moved to Ghana in November. It is unclear how many aircraft remain in Ghana, but the former official said the missions include tracking down the kidnapped US pilot and gathering intelligence on militant groups operating in Nigeria. Boko Haram and its splinter organisation, Islamic State West Africa Province, are among the militant groups operating in Nigeria. Also, a current US official confirmed the aircraft has been flying over Nigeria but declined

to provide details given the diplomatic sensitivity of the issue. A separate administration official told Reuters that Washington was continuing to work with Nigeria to “address religious violence, anti-Christian attacks, and the destabilising spread of terrorism.” While Nigeria’s government has said armed groups target both Muslims and Christians, the US claims that Christians facing persecution do not represent a complex security situation and ignore efforts to safeguard religious freedom. But Nigeria has agreed to work with the US to bolster its forces against militant groups. The Tenax Aerospace aircraft was seen on November 7 by flight tracking data at MacDill Air Force Base, which is home to the headquarters of the United States Special Operations Command in Tampa, Florida. It flew to Ghana on November 24, just days after the high-level meeting between US and Nigerian security officials, according to flight tracking data. The data showed the aircraft has flown over Nigeria almost Continued on page 22

FRONTLINE ACCOUNTANT, ODU OF ONITSHA, ARTHUR MBANEFO DIES AT 95 the end of a remarkable life of service to Nigeria and the international community. Mbanefo was Nigeria’s former Permanent Representative to the United Nations (UN) and former Pro-Chancellor of the Universities of Lagos, Obafemi Awolowo, and Ahmadu Bello. He was a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria. Born on June 11, 1930, in Onitsha, Anambra State, Mbanefo was educated at St. Patrick’s College, Calabar, and later trained in the United Kingdom, where he qualified as a chartered accountant in the mid-1950s before returning home to begin a career that would span more than half

a century. The Odu of Onitsha had his early professional years spent as a partner in the firm Akintola Williams & Company, Nigeria’s oldest indigenous accountancy practice, where he worked from 1961 until 1986, eventually becoming senior partner. Later, he founded his own management consultancy, providing financial and corporate advice to government, business, and international institutions. He became the President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) in 1978, during which time the ICAN Secretariat was completed and declared open on April 21, 1979. Mbanefo represented the institute on the governing boards of International Federa-

tion of Accountants (IFAC) and the International Accounting Standards Committee(IASC). He was such an exceptional talent that he applied himself to various walks of life and disciplines without loss of concentration, ability and achieved great results. Mbanefo’s influence extended far beyond accountancy. Known for his probity and intellectual depth, he served on several boards of Nigeria’s leading corporations and financial institutions, helping to guide governance and strategic decision-making in an era of economic transformation. His professional stature was matched by his civic engagements, including membership of key national commissions Continued on page 22

THISDAY • TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2025

NEWS

SENATE PRESIDENT LEADS DELEGATION TO OLUBADAN...

L-R: Senate Minority Whip, Osita Ngwu; Senators Sharafadeen Alli, Adamu Aliero; Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I; President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio; PHOTO: SENATE PRESIDENT’S OFFICE Senate Deputy Whip, Onyekachi Nwaebonyi and Senator Yahaya Abdullahi, during a courtesy visit to the Ibadan monarch by Akpabio, yesterday in Ibadan

2026 Appropriation: Oyo Budgets N892bn, Stressing Production, Benue Proposes N605bn for Rural Devt, Sustained Growth Governor Makinde signs bill into law

George Okoh

Governor ‘Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has declared the state’s 2026 Budget has deemphasised consumption and is focused on increasing production, as that remains the best way to expand the economy of the state. The governor stated this on Monday, shortly after signing the 2026 Appropriation Bill into Law, calling on all stakeholders in the state to work consistently in line with the laid down patterns so as to achieve the full implementation of the 2026

Budget for the benefit of Oyo State residents. In another related development in Benue State, Governor Hyacinth Alia on Monday presented the state’s 2026 Budget estimates totaling six hundred and five billion, five hundred and six million, seven hundred and sixty-four thousand, and sixty-six naira, sixteen Kobo (N605,506,764,066.16K), before the members of the Assembly, in Makurdi, for consideration and approval. Addressing members at the Benue State House of

Assembly Complex, Governor Alia explained that the 2026 budget titled “Budget of Rural Development, Livelihood Support and Sustained Growth,” is a deliberate strategy aimed at repositioning the state’s economy, and to improve the living standards of the people of the State. Meanwhile, Governor ‘Seyi Makinde, who made this call at the budget signing ceremony held at the Executive Chambers of the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Ibadan, stated that his administration has maintained

a realistic budgetary process and has achieved improved budget performance over the last six years. He noted that the aim of the N892 billion 2026 Budget is to engender genuine growth by ensuring lesser dependence on federal allocations, saying, however, the state government might come up with a supplementary budget in the course of the year, if there is a financial surplus or if some of the ongoing economic landmark projects begin to yield fruits. He said: “This budget that

has just been signed into law is the last full year budget of this administration. When we came in 2019, the budget we met was prepared by another administration. We reduced the budget by about 25 per cent. “This was because when we looked at the track record over the years and what was the percentage of implementation, it was around 37 per cent. “So, we thought it was better to cut our coat according to our material. After we did that, Oyo State began to experience improved budget performance.

JAMB Registrar, Oloyede Canvasses Sustained Dialogue, Mutual Respect, Deeper Engagement for Scholarly Consensus Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

The Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Professor Is-haq Oloyede has called for sustained dialogue, mutual respect, and a deeper engagement with scriptural sources as foundations for scholarly consensus in the society. Oloyede made the call at this year international conference organized by the El-Mavericky Centre for Educational Research and Development, in collaboration with the Department of Islamic Studies, University of Abuja. In a statement issued and made available to THISDAY yesterday in Osogbo by the Executive Director of the ElMavericky Centre and convener of the conference, Sulayman O. Nafiu, noted that the conference examined the lives and legacies of Nigerian Islamic scholars, with a central focus on unity amid diversity.

Professor Oloyede was represented by Professor Afis Oladosu of the Department of Arabic, University of Ibadan. The lecture advanced the argument that unity does not imply uniformity, calling instead for sustained dialogue, mutual respect, and a deeper engagement with scriptural sources as foundations for scholarly consensus. The two-day event was held at Faculty of Social Sciences Auditorium, University of Abuja. However, the Themed is titled “Lives and Legacies of Nigerian Islamic Scholars: Lessons of Unity in Diversity”. The conference drew a distinguished gathering of scholars and intellectuals from Nigeria and abroad notably from Turkey, Morocco and Saudi Arabia. The event also underscored Nigeria’s long-standing contributions to Islamic scholarship and its relevance to contemporary

global debates on faith, identity, and cohesion. Delivering the keynote address, Professor Mashood A. Baderin, Professor of Laws and Academic Director,College of Law,SOAS University of London, emphasised the historical and moral significance of Nigerian Islamic scholars. He described them as “vicegerents of the Prophet”, noting their pivotal role in preserving ethical leadership, intellectual rigor, and communal harmony within the Muslim world. Also, the Executive Director of the El-Mavericky Centre and convener of the conference, Sulayman O. Nafiu, while delivering his address said the gathering was timely, particularly in an era marked by rising polarisation and divisive rhetoric, often amplified through social media. He urged younger scholars to draw inspiration from the intellectual discipline and moral restraint of earlier generations.

“The past is not a relic,” he noted, “but a reservoir of wisdom that should guide the contemporary Islamic ummah.” The conference also featured Professor Muhammad Babangida of Bayero University, Kano,

as the second lead speaker. Also in attendance was the Mufti of Ilorin, Sheikh Farooq Onikijipa, OON, and other prominent religious leaders, academics, and public intellectuals.

“For us, this 2026 budget has deemphasised consumption. We are in an environment where there is a lot of history around us. We dare to be different and we want to be productive. “We want to expand our economy and depend less on federal allocation, because that is the only path that can bring about sustainable growth for us. “In our effort to focus more on production rather than consumption, we approached the federal government around 2021 to get the approval to fix the Oyo-Iseyin Road, because we have the Fasola Farm Estate around the axis but it is a federal road. “It took the federal government two years to give us approval to fix the road. But the Fasola Farm Estate is extremely important to the Oyo State economy. We have since have fixed the road and we have seen the activities springing up there. So, we dare to be different in Oyo State. Continues online

CSOs Back FG’s Procurement Reforms, Warn Against Politicisation Michael Olugbode in Abuja

A coalition of civil society and regional development organisations has thrown its weight behind the federal government’s ongoing public procurement reforms, describing them as critical to transparency, fiscal discipline and improved service delivery in Nigeria. Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja, the groups, the Northern Youth Integrity Group (NYIG), Oduduwa Development Initiative (ODI), and other civil society part-

ners, said the reform process aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the federal government and is designed to correct long-standing structural weaknesses that have enabled inefficiency, inflated costs and abuse within the public spending system. In a joint address to journalists, the coalition commended the media for its role in promoting accountability and informed public discourse, noting that procurement reforms often attract intense scrutiny and

competing narratives because of the interests involved. The groups stressed that their intervention was not driven by political loyalties or personal considerations, but by a long-standing commitment to governance reform and the national interest. According to the coalition, Nigeria’s development ambitions — including sustainable economic growth, infrastructure renewal and improved public services — cannot be realised if public procurement remains opaque, discretionary and resistant to oversight.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2025 • THISDAY

NEWS

GBENGA OLAWEPO-HASHIM FORGES AHEAD WITH HIS PRESIDENTIAL AMBITION, VISITS OBASANJO...

Former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo(left), and Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) 2027 Presidential Hopeful, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, during his visit to Obasanjo in Abeokuta...yesterday

Sanwo-Olu Performs Groundbreaking for LSSTF’S Permanent Office in Alausa Frontline philanthropist, Sir Kessington, donates operational headquarters to Lagos agency Efforts to enhance security and safety in Lagos State, on Monday, received a boost with the groundbreaking for the construction of a multi-storey building that will serve as the operational headquarters of Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF). Governor Babajide SanwoOlu turned the sod for commencement of the project which will be the permanent office of the state-owned agency established in 2007 by the state government to support security operations. Frontline businessman and philanthropist, Sir Adebukunola Adebutu Kessington, single-handedly took up funding of the project, sited along Assfibi Road in Alausa. The new LSSTF office complex is expected to be ready by October 2026. Sanwo-Olu noted the agency held a strategic

mandate to promote safety but had been operating without permanent office since its establishment. When completed, the governor said the permanent office complex would boost capacity and service delivery of the agency, adding that the state’s security architecture would be enhanced if LSSTF moved to its permanent headquarters. The governor said: “LSSTF has been operating from a rented facility in the last 17 years, which has necessitated the need to build and deliver a permanent facility from where the agency will operate. This will make LSSTF to discharge its statutory obligations with utmost professionalism and integrity. “The completion of the project will make no excuse for its leadership in providing the best quality of security

support services expected from the agency. “The new office complex would bring about significant improvements in the support being given to all security agencies. The Fund is part of the legacies being bequeathed to Lagos and it will continue to do well.” Sanwo-Olu praised the

philanthropic spirit of Sir Kessington, noting that the donation represented the donor’s high sense of patriotism and commitment towards keeping the State secure. The donor’s gesture, the governor pointed out, lifted a financial burden off the government, bypassing

bureaucratic constraints that could have delayed the implementation of the project. “This project will outlive all of us and one man that God has used to kick off this journey of a permanent office is Sir Adebutu Kessington. “The donor of the project has taken off the burden of bureaucracy from the agency’s

shoulders to ensure security operations in Lagos are not undermined,” the governor said. LSSTF Executive Secretary, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, said his vision for the restructuring of the Fund’s operations had started to materialise with the groundbreaking for the agency’s permanent office.

Hospital Breaks Silence on Patient’s Death, Rejects Allegations of Negligence Wale Igbintade

The management of Gynescope Specialist Hospital has responded to widespread media reports and online commentary surrounding the death of Mrs. Akudo Lovelyn John, describing some of the narratives in circulation as inaccurate and misleading.

The deceased’s husband, Mr. Justice John, had described his wife’s death as “sad, painful and completely avoidable,” alleging lapses in emergency response and contradictory explanations by the hospital. In its response, the hospital expressed condolences to Mr. John, the family, and loved ones of the deceased, acknowledging the pain associated with the loss. It said its initial decision not to

comment publicly was deliberate and intended to allow the family space to grieve without public controversy. According to the hospital, the continued circulation of what it described as incomplete and distorted narratives made it necessary to clarify the circumstances surrounding Mrs. Lovelyn John’s death. The hospital stated the deceased was attended to by

qualified and experienced medical professionals who acted promptly and in accordance with established medical standards and protocols. It maintained that all reasonable and available medical interventions were deployed in sustained efforts to save her life, including extraordinary measures such as voluntary blood donation by compatible members of its medical and management team.

NIS Deepens Digital, Border Reforms as CGIS Decorates Promoted Officers HACEY, WACOL Partner to end Genderelevated to higher ranks to confidence in their integrity, Michael Olugbode in Abuja The Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Mrs. Kemi Nandap, has outlined plans to deepen ongoing institutional and digital reforms within the Service, as newly promoted controllers and senior officers were formally decorated in Abuja on Monday. Speaking at the ceremony, Nandap said the success of the reform agenda would depend largely on the quality of leadership provided by senior officers, urging those

drive professionalism, accountability and innovation across commands. She said the reforms, which aligned with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, are aimed at strengthening national security, improving service delivery and positioning the NIS among the best immigration institutions globally. According to the Comptroller General, promotions in the Service are earned through merit and discipline, and the officers’ elevation reflects

competence and capacity to shoulder greater responsibility. “As senior officers, you are now central to enforcing standards, mentoring younger personnel and ensuring that our reforms translate into measurable outcomes,” she said. Nandap disclosed the Service is expanding its digital transformation initiatives, including reforms in visa processing, passport issuance and border management systems, to enhance efficiency and transparency.

Based Violence Prevention, Response in Osun Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

HACEY, in partnership with Women Aid Collective (WACOL), has pledged to put a Stop to Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Prevention and Response in Osun State. Speaking over the weekend at a Participatory Training Workshop on Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Prevention and Response Empowering Christian Women and Women Leaders of Culture for Prevention and Response to Gender-Based Violence in

Nigeria, the project lead, Hacey, David Agala at Daniel Adewole Awe Medical Centre (DAAMC) Orita Iloko, Osun State said the workshop forms part of a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening the capacity of Christian women and women leaders of culture to prevent, respond to, and advocate against gender-based violence within their communities. It would be recalled that the training took place across selected communities in Oyo and Osun States.

According to him, “Genderbased violence remains a critical human rights and public health challenge in Nigeria, deeply rooted in harmful social, cultural, and religious norms”. He opined that through this initiative, HACEY and WACOL seek to empower influential women leaders with practical knowledge, survivor-centered approaches, and advocacy tools to challenge these norms, promote human rights, and support survivors safely and ethically.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2025 • T H I S D AY

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2025 • THISDAY

NEWS

LAGOS STREET ART FESTIVAL...

L-R: Co-Founder, Lagos Street Art Festival, Osa Okunkpolor; General Manager, Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency, Mrs Adetoun Popoola; Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Art and Culture. Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka; Co-Founder, Lagos Street Art Festival, Karishma Daryani-Chugani; CoFounder, Lagos Street Art Festival, Adaora Mbelu; and Co-Founder, Lagos Street Art Festival, Akinlabi Akinbulumo, during a walk-through and site inspection of mural installations at the Lagos Street Art Festival along Ozumba Mbadiwe Road, Victoria Island... recently

World Health Organisation to Explore Benefits of Traditional Medicines Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has agreed to explore the benefits of traditional medicines, from herbalists in Africa gathering plants to use as poultices to acupuncturists in China using needles to cure migraines, or Indian yogis

practising meditation. According to Dr Shyama Kuruvilla, who leads the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre, a historical lack of evidence, which has seen traditional practices dismissed by many, could change with more investment and the use of modern technology.

Earlier this year, countries agreed the WHO should adopt a new global traditional medicines strategy for the next decade that “seeks to harness the potential contribution of TCIM (Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Medicine) to health and wellbeing based on evidence”.

It includes plans to establish a robust evidence base for traditional medicine practices, develop regulation of treatments and practitioners and, where appropriate, integrate the practices into mainstream biomedical healthcare, The Guardian reported. “It’s super-exciting,” says

U.S. to Partially Suspend Visa Issuance for Nigerians, 18 Other Countries from January 1, 2026 Chiemelie Ezeobi

Acting on guidance from the U.S. Department of State, the United States Embassy and Consulate in Nigeria has announced that, effective January 1, 2026, Nigeria will be among 19 countries whose nationals will face a partial suspension of U.S. visa issuance, under Presidential Proclamation 10998 aimed at “restricting and limiting the entry of foreign nationals to protect the security of the United States.” According to a statement

issued by the U.S. Embassy and Consulate in Nigeria, the policy will take effect at 12:01 a.m. EST on January 1, 2026, and will affect the issuance of nonimmigrant B-1/B-2 visitor visas, as well as F, M, and J student and exchange visitor visas, in addition to all immigrant visas, subject to limited exceptions. The proclamation also applies to nationals of Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Benin, Burundi, Côte d’Ivoire, Cuba, Dominica, Gabon, The Gambia, Malawi, Mauritania,

Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, Togo, Tonga, Venezuela, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. However, the U.S. government clarified that certain categories of applicants will be exempted from the suspension. According to them, these include immigrant visas for ethnic and religious minorities facing persecution in Iran, dual nationals applying with passports of countries not subject to the suspension, Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs) for eligible U.S. government employees

under 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(27) (D), participants in certain major sporting events, and Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs). The U.S. Embassy and Consulate in Nigeria further explained that Presidential Proclamation 10998 applies only to foreign nationals who are outside the United States on the effective date and who do not hold a valid U.S. visa at that time.

Chief Emami made the call in a statement issued on Monday and made available to THISDAY in Abuja, shortly after he paid a condolence visit to the family of the deceased, following the killing which occurred over the weekend. Strongly condemning the incident, the APC chieftain described the murder as unfortunate and deeply

regrettable. He lamented that such an inhumane act was allegedly carried out by people who should see themselves as brothers. According to him, no grievance or misunderstanding could justify the taking of a human life, stressing that violence only undermines peace, unity and development within the community.

AbdulRazaq of Kwara State yesterday presented a total sum of N644,004,816,893.00 for 2026 Appropriation Bill to the members of the State House of Assembly. The budget tagged, “Budget of Consolidation and Sustained Growth” according to the governor is built around the following national economic outlook for the year: oil price of US

Kuruvilla. “I’m not saying we know what works and what doesn’t work at scale – but I think there’s this opportunity (to find out) right now,” Kuruvilla said. Traditional medicine, defined as systems for health and wellbeing that predate “biomedicine”, comes in many guises ranging from herbal tea to India’s Ayurvedic medical system. Many of these centuries-old practices have “huge potential”, says Kuruvilla, and can now be explored in new ways by technologies including artificial intelligence, genomics and brain scans. Kuruvilla said Thailand is a good example of a country embracing traditional medicine, with researchers observing and documenting traditional practice, and performing randomised trials to get herbal treatments onto the country’s essential medicines list. There have been some concerns that the WHO strategy

could create a backdoor for unscientific systems such as homeopathy to enter the mainstream but Kuruvilla pointed out that homeopathy does not fit the WHO’s definition of traditional medicine – it was only created in the late 18th century – and that there is not strong enough evidence for the practice. But, she said: “With all of these – with biomedicine, homeopathy, traditional medicine – if the evidence changes, I think it’s our responsibility to be open to that.” In some countries homeopathy is used as a complementary medicine “and that’s up to the countries”, Kuruvilla said, adding “We have to, as WHO, just stick to the evidence. “So I think that’s our bottom line: is this supported by robust reliable evidence, especially on safety and efficacy? And if it’s not, WHO is not supporting it, whether it is biomedicine or traditional medicine.”

Gov AbdulRazaq Presents over N644bn Appropriation Bill for 2026 to Kwara Assembly Onuwaje Murder: Warri High Chief Demands Hammed He said, the fiscal plan will $64.85; daily oil production Shittu in Ilorin focus the estimates of 1.84m barrels Manhunt as Tension Rises in Ugborodo Governor AbdulRahman per day; exchange rate of ongoingmorecapitalon finishing projects and

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State and the Ologbotsere of Warri Kingdom, Chief Ayirimi Emami, has urged security agencies to urgently track down and prosecute those responsible for the killing of Emiko Onuwaje in Warri South-West Local Government Area of the state.

N1,400 per US dollar; and GDP growth of 4.68%. Presenting the appropriation bill to the state lawmakers at the floor of the house on Monday, Alhaji AbdulRazaq stated that, “At least 65.95 per cent of the fiscal plan will go for capital expenditure, while the remaining will go into recurrent, such as supporting the poor and doubling down on workers’ welfare”.

break the grounds for new ones that align with strategic needs of the state. AbdulRazaq stated that, “With profound gratitude to God for His mercies and guidance, I again stand before this Honourable House to lay the 2026 Appropriation Bill in compliance with Section 121 (1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

LAWYER TUeSday, DECemBER 23, 2025

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& RE A SO

weekly pullout

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Christmas Special Edition...

President, Nigerian Bar Association, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN

Yuletide 2025: How Lawyers Will Spend Their Time

T H I S D AY • TueSday, DECEMBER 23, 2025

In this edition

Whether Medical Evidence is Required in All Cases of Homicide Page IV

ASF Advocates for Gender Perspectives in Use of Death Penalty in Nigeria Page V

Quotables ‘It’s no exaggeration to state that the survival of Nigeria’s democracy has often hinged on the steadfastness of the Judiciary..’ - Hon. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, GCON, Chief Justice of Nigeria

‘Global experience shows that when women take part in security, policy making, countries adopt more effective strategies for prevention, community engagement, victim protection and long term State building.’ - Rt. Honourable Tajudeen Abbas, GCON, Speaker, House of Representatives, 10th National Assembly

columnist STEPHEN KOLA-BALOGUN Stephen Kola Balogun, is a vastly experienced Legal Practioner who obtained his LL.B from University of Ife and LL.M from School of Oriental & African Studies, University of London. He has Post-Graduate Diplomas in Intellectual Property Law, Construction Law, Management and Arbitration. He has served in various capacities since his Call to the Nigerian Bar in 1982, including practicing at Akinjide & Co., and lecturing part-time at Oxbridge Tutorial College. He was the Honourable Commissioner for Youths, Sports and Special Needs, State of Osun, August, 2011 to November, 2014. He is currently the Principal Partner at Kola Balogun & Partners. SKB, as he is fondly called, is accredited with several publications to his name, both International and Domestic.

lawyer

ICC Nigeria to Host 10th Anniversary of ICC Africa Conference on International Arbitration & ADR in Lagos Page V

Lagos Judiciary Declares Christmas Vacation, Urges Staff to Uphold Excellence Page V

onikepo braithwaite: editor, jude igbanoI: deputy editor, peter taiwo, steve aya: reporters

III The advocate

T H I S D AY • TueSday, DECEMBER 23, 2025

Supreme Court Judgement on Emergency Rule: My Takeaways

Introduction n considering my major takeaways from the recent Supreme Court judgement in AG, Adamawa State & 10 Ors v AGF & Anor SC/CV/329/2025 Judgement delivered on 15/12/2025 Majority Judgement delivered by Mohammed Baba Idris, JSC, on state of emergency, I start by examining what a Constitution is. A Constitution is a foundational document that sets out broad principles, fundamental human rights and the legal structure upon which an organisation or a country must rest upon. See the definition of Constitution as stated in FCDA v Ezinkwo (2007) LPELR-9015 (CA) per Mary Ukaego Peter-Odili, JCA (as she then was); Bakkat v FRN (2013) LPELR-22817(CA) per Oyebisi Folayemi Omoleye, JCA. The Constitution is a document that is expected to stand the test of time, and sometimes, because its provisions are not always conclusive or may appear somewhat flexible, thereby giving rise to ambiguity, the courts are then called upon to make the necessary clarifications. Strict School of Thought There appears to be a strict school of thought that believes that, for the most part, the Constitution must only be interpreted, as much as possible, literally, and any other form of interpretation or qualification may be an addition which can only be made through constitutional amendment, as it is trite that the Constitution can only be amended by means of a constitutional amendment, and nothing else. See Section 9 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) (the Constitution). And, sometimes, interpretation/ execution of the provisions of the Constitution is what then leads to controversy, particularly when such interpretation is considered to be an addition. For example, last week, Stephen Kola-Balogun (SKB) was of the view that the Supreme Court decision in Monsuru Solola & Anor v State (2005) LPELR-3101(SC) per Dennis Onyejife Edozie, JSC, in which the Supreme Court held inter alia that, the prerogative of mercy in Sections 175 & 212 of the Constitution shouldn’t be exercised while an appeal is pending, was a qualification/addition which required constitutional amendment. I must confess that I have also felt the same way as SKB in certain circumstances, such as that of inconclusive elections. Even though I had admitted that the rationale behind the declaration of inconclusive elections may be sound, if people who have a right to vote, are, for one reason or the other, disenfranchised, and the number of those who haven’t voted is enough to change the outcome of the results declared, I had argued that since Section 179(2)(a) of the Constitution had clearly provided for the threshold that must be met for a Gubernatorial candidate to be declared the winner of an election, then the said Section 179(2)(a) of the Constitution should be strictly adhered to when a candidate meets this threshold, like Governor Adeleke did in the 2018 Osun election (but wasn’t declared the winner), until the Constitution is amended to include inconclusive elections which I considered to be an addition. However, the Supreme Court in Hon. James Abiodun Faleke v INEC & Anor [2016] NGSC 83, appeared to have lent its support to INEC being able to declare elections inconclusive in certain circumstances, and this appears to be the practice that is now followed, when the need arises. The Constitution cannot contemplate every situation, and in the case of inconclusive elections, the makers of the Constitution may not have envisaged a situation such as this, that would lead to the declaration of an election as inconclusive. But, as this situation presented itself on a few occasions - see Hon. James Abiodun Faleke v INEC & Anor (Supra); Senator Nurudeen Ademola Adeleke & Anor v Adegboyega Isiaka Oyetola & Ors (2020) 6 N.W.L.R. Part 1721, the Supreme Court as a Policy Court, appears to have stepped in to fill the gap. There cannot be constitutional amendments for every single issue that arises, or that the Apex Court makes pronouncements upon. The Constitution remains thr framework, and the role of the Supreme Court when called upon, is to define, interpret or give meaning to constitutional provisions, and its pronouncements in this regard, are final and binding. If the Supreme Court wasn’t meant to make pronouncements that give life to constitutional provisions, why were Nigerians eagerly waiting to hear what the Apex Court had to say on the state of emergency? Furthermore, it is impossible for a Constitution to envisage every possible circumstance that can occur and provide for it, particularly as society and life do not remain static, and are in constant evolution. Therefore, there are laws, which mustn’t be inconsistent with the provisions of the Constitution (see Section 1(1) & (3) of the Constitution ), and judicial interpretation, which may be used to fill such gaps, particularly as the Constitution is not always self-executory in some of its provisions. State of Emergency 1) Reasons for Proclamation Aside from the Faleke, Adeleke and Solola cases cited above, another situation which is not expressly mentioned in the Constitution, occurred again and was

Onikepo braithwaite Braithwaite onikepo

onikepo.braithwaite@thisdaylive. com onikepob@yahoo.com

The

Advocate “The Apex Court appeared to have considered a dispute between a State Executive and Legislature, resulting not only in the destruction of the symbol and seat of the Legislature, but in the lack of a functioning government, as a condition that meets the Section 305(3) threshold for the declaration of a state of emergency, requiring extraordinary measures to set things back on course….that the suspension was a practical….temporary solution to the ‘two fighting’ situation between the Rivers Executive and Legislature. I’m not sure that I subscribe to the suspension of elected officials; it is a measure that is too extraordinary in my view, and falls outside the purview of the Constitution” brought to the Apex Court for resolution - the circumstances surrounding the proclamation of the state of emergency in Rivers State, and what constitutes ‘extraordinary measures’. The recent judgement in AG, Adamawa State & 10 Ors v AGF & Anor (Supra), has revved up this debate once again, since the President declared a state of emergency in Rivers State in March 2025, and suspended the Governor, Deputy Governor and House of Assembly Members for a period of six months which elapsed in September 2025. The burning question as to whether the President has powers to suspend elected (State) officials, has been begging to be answered. Even though in AG, Adamawa State & 10 Ors v AGF & Anor (Supra), the Apex Court found that it had no jurisdiction to entertain the matter, as the claim didn’t reveal a cause of action that falls within the purview of Section 232(1) of the Constitution which ignites the original jurisdiction of the Supreme Court in disputes between a State or States and the Federation, or between States, seeing as the subject-matter of the case is so important as we were in dire need of resolution on issues to do with state of

Supreme Court

emergency, the Apex Court went on to make some pronouncements in this regard. Firstly, the strict school of thought argues that the grounds for the declaration of a state of emergency are expressly stated in Section 305(3)(a)-(f) of the Constitution, and therefore, any such proclamation must be restricted to the presence of any of the conditions stated therein, to be ignited. But, aside from some of the usual conditions which President Tinubu listed as grounds for the proclamation, such as the vandalisation of oil installations in Rivers State which could have affected Nigeria’s already shaky revenue, seeing as oil is the mainstay of the economy, the Supreme Court appears to have recognised another condition which it mentioned in an earlier decision in February 2025 - that Rivers State didn’t have a functioning government. It appears that the Constitution may not have contemplated a situation in which two arms of government, the Executive and Legislature, which are crucial to the effective running of any democratic government, would be so much at loggerheads, leading to governance in the State ending up being at a standstill. I had said at the time the proclamation was made, that Governor Fubara

and the Rivers House of Assembly (RSHA) had failed to work together, and instead, the Governor was accused of burning down the RSHA to stop the members from instituting removal proceedings against him, while he purported to govern the State with a ‘Lilliputian’ Legislature comprised of only three members, far from the quorum required by the Constitution. The Apex Court appeared to have considered a dispute between a State Executive and Legislature, resulting not only in the destruction of the symbol and seat of the Legislature, but in the lack of a functioning government, as a condition that meets the Section 305(3) threshold for the declaration of a state of emergency, requiring extraordinary measures to set things back on course. Some Lawyers however, saw this decision as turning the law on its head. Others saw it as a development that captured the statement, “law is dynamic”, where lawmaking and judicial interpretation must evolve to address emerging/new issues, instead of being stuck in a time warp. And, that the depth of the Rivers State Executive/Legislative crisis, could just be an emerging issue, not previously contemplated by the makers of the Constitution. 2) Extraordinary Measures The second matter that arose, is the extent of ‘extraordinary measures’ that can be taken by the President to resolve a situation in which two crucial arms of government (as in the Rivers situation), are at war. It is not unreasonable to expect that whatever measures are taken must be constitutional, though the definition of extraordinary is unusual; synonyms are astonishing, exceptional, even odd. Section 305(1), is subject to the other provisions of the Constitution. This means that it is governed or controlled, by the other provisions of the Constitution. See the case of Labiyi v Anretiola 1992 8 N.W.L.R. Part 258 Page 139 at 164 per Godwin Adolphus Karibi-Whyte, JSC. No provision therein, permits the President to suspend a Governor or Legislators. In Section 188, the Constitution provides for the removal of a Governor by only the State House of Assembly, and not suspension, while Section 110 thereof provides for the recall of State Legislators. Interestingly, even though Section 11(4) of the Constitution contemplates a situation in which a House of Assembly cannot function as a result of the situation in the State, and the National Assembly (NASS) taking up the role of such State Assembly in the interim. NASS, in performing a State Assembly’s role, is prohibited from removing a Governor. From the foregoing, one can conclude that the Constitution doesn’t contemplate the President being able to suspend a Governor or House of Assembly members. And this, the Apex Court stated clearly in the majority judgement, that Section 305 of the Constitution doesn’t expressly confer the President with power “to assume or temporarily displace the executive or legislative institutions of a State”. This position was copiously stated, in the judgement. So, was the suspension an extraordinary measure? The Supreme Court held that the Constitution is silent on the ‘extraordinary measures’ that may follow the proclamation of a state of emergency, and that it is this silence, that the Apex Court decided gives the President the discretion to determine what measures may be required to restore a State to normalcy. It appears that the majority decision is saying that, where two crucial arms of government have differences which affect effective governance in the State, both being the cause of the problem, perhaps, may even be the cause of violence in a State, the extraordinary measure required would be to have both arms step aside temporarily until normalcy is restored, seeing as they are the root cause of the problem, notwithstanding that this isn’t specifically stated in the Constitution. Conclusion While sceptics do not agree with the Supreme Court’s decision in AG, Adamawa State & 10 Ors v AGF & Anor (Supra), particularly the members of the Strict School of Thought, who believe that the majority decision simply panders to the whims and caprices of the President and other vested interests, others argue that the suspension was a practical resolution to a problem that had festered, that is, a temporary solution to the ‘two fighting’ situation between the Rivers Executive and Legislature. With all due respect, I’m not sure that I subscribe to the suspension of elected officials; it is a measure that is too extraordinary in my view, and falls outside the purview of the Constitution. Having an Administrator work side by side the Governor, and Senate or House members, side by side with RSHA, would have been a better option. The Supreme Court cited Section 352-360 of the Indian Constitution, which, for instance, expressly allows the President to assume the executive governance of State, where governance has failed. This isn’t the case, in the Nigerian Constitution. Thankfully, however, the Apex Court stated that one size doesn’t fit all, and each situation must be taken on its peculiar facts, citing the measures taken during the earlier Plateau and Ekiti emergencies, which were different from those taken in the latter Borno, Adamawa and Yobe emergencies.

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Whether Medical Evidence is Required in All Cases of Homicide The Appellant was arraigned before the High Court of Kaduna State, on a one count-charge of culpable homicide punishable with death contrary to the provision of Section 221(b) of the Penal Code, Laws of Kaduna State, 1991. The Appellant was alleged to have caused the death of one Abdulkadir Abubakar, by stabbing him with a knife on 25th June, 2015. The Appellant pleaded not guilty to the charge. In proof of its case, the Respondent fielded three witnesses – PW1, PW2 and PW3, and also tendered some documentary evidence. PW2 - one Sergeant Mohammed Tiji who was the Respondent’s star witness, testified that on the fateful day, while on his way home after close of work, he heard a shout and when he looked around, he saw the Appellant with a knife with a trailing point which he used to stab the deceased on the side of his chest. He further testified that he immediately arrested the Appellant and asked the people around to take him to the Police station, while he took the deceased to the hospital, and he was later called from the hospital on the same day that the deceased was dead. The Appellant did not call any witnesses, but rested his case on that of the prosecution. After the closure of evidence, respective Counsel for the parties gave their final addresses. In a judgement delivered on 14th December, 2017, the trial court found the Appellant guilty as charged, and sentenced him to death. Aggrieved, the Appellant appealed to the Court of Appeal. However, the Court of Appeal dismissed the appeal, and affirmed the judgement of the trial court. Displeased, the Appellant lodged a further appeal at the Supreme Court. Issue for Determination The Supreme Court adopted the first issue distilled by the Appellant’s Counsel which it considered sufficient to decide the appeal, as follows: Whether the Respondent proved its case against the Appellant, beyond reasonable doubt. Arguments Counsel for the Appellant argued that the Respondent did not prove the offence of culpable homicide punishable with death against the Appellant beyond reasonable doubt, as required by Section 135 of the Evidence Act. He contended that the death of the deceased was not linked to the Appellant, and that PW2 who claimed to be an eyewitness met the deceased unconscious without any communication between them as to who stabbed the deceased. He described the evidence of PW2 as mere speculation, and argued that Exhibit-1 – the confessional statement named Mai Kahu, not the deceased, as the one stabbed, and this contradicted the evidence of PW2 on the identity of the Appellant. Counsel also argued that there was no evidence as to what happened in the hospital where the deceased was taken, hence there was a break in the chain of causation which necessitated medical evidence to prove that the deceased died from the knife stab. He referred to ALUTOHAI v STATE (2015) ALL FWLR (PT. 765) 198. He submitted that the absence of medical evidence amongst others, created a reasonable doubt in the case of the Respondent and this ought to have been resolved in favour of the Appellant. In response, Counsel for the Respondent argued that there was no break in causation and there was no need for medical evidence, as the death of the deceased was duly linked to the Appellant. Counsel also argued that the Appellant, having rested his case on that of the prosecution, is deemed to have accepted the evidence adduced by the prosecution. He

Honourable Festus Obande Ogbuinya, JSC In the Supreme Court of Nigeria Holden at Abuja On Friday, the 13th day of June, 2025

Before Their Lordships Mohammed Lawal Garba Adamu Jauro Jummai Hannatu Sankey Moore Aseimo Abraham Adumein Festus Obande Ogbuinya Justices, Supreme Court SC/CR/690/2020 Between ABU UMAR

APPELLANT

And THE STATE RESPONDENT (Lead Judgement delivered by Honourable Festus Obande Ogbuinya, JSC) contended that PW2 and PW3 were also not cross-examined thereby making their evidence uncontradicted. He submitted that the case of culpable homicide punishable with death was established against the Appellant beyond reasonable doubt and urged the Apex Court not to disturb the concurrent findings of the two lower courts. Court’s Judgement and Rationale The Apex Court held that indeed, the law is established that the burden of proof of a crime rests squarely on the shoulders of the prosecution and the standard of proof is one beyond reasonable doubt, by the presentation of oral or documentary evidence that establish the necessary elements of the offence. The Supreme Court held that to establish the guilt of a person charged with the offence of culpable homicide with death, the prosecution must prove that: the deceased died, the death of the deceased was caused by the accused, and the act or omission of the accused person which caused the death of the deceased was intentional, with knowledge that death or grievous bodily harm was its probable consequence. The Court held that these three elements

“……..the need for medical evidence is rendered lame where: death is instantaneous, or nearly so, from an attack; the cause of death is known or could be inferred from the circumstances of evidence adduced, or there is abundant evidence on manner of death”

of the offence must be proved concurrently, beyond reasonable doubt. The Court held that on the first ingredient, it was indeed, established that the deceased died; and on the second ingredient, the record revealed that PW2 witnessed the entire awful episode of the Appellant’s dastardly act of stabbing the deceased with a knife. The Apex Court held that in the colony of evidence, case law has ordained the evidence of an eyewitness as one of the ways to prove the commission and ingredients of an offence, apart from confessional statement and circumstantial evidence, and in terms of potency and credibility, the evidence of an eye witness ranks second in the methodical ladder of proof of crimes, conceding the first rung of the ladder to a confession. The Court held that in essence, the unswerving and unchallenged evidence of PW2, inter alia, constituted an existential proof of the second ingredient, that it was the unholy act of the Appellant in stabbing the deceased that caused the death of the deceased. On the argument of the Appellant’s Counsel that there was a break in the chain of causation which necessitated the presentation of medical evidence to prove the presence of a causal link between the stab and the demise of the deceased, the Court held that it is settled law that the need for medical evidence is rendered lame where: death is instantaneous, or nearly so, from an attack; the cause of death is known or could be inferred from the circumstances of evidence adduced or there is abundant evidence of the manner of death. The Court relied on its earlier decisions in OGBA v STATE (1992) 2 SCNJ/(1992) 2 NWLR (PT. 222) 164; UBANI v STATE (2003) 18 NWLR (PT. 851) 224 and SANI v

STATE (2020) 11 NWLR (PT. 1736) 490. The Court held that medical evidence, which encompasses medical report, has ceased to be a conditio sine qua non for proof of all cases of homicide in criminal jurisprudence. The Supreme Court held that it is discernible from the lower court’s decision, that the unrefuted and concrete evidence of PW2 and PW3 on record is that the Appellant carried out the act of stabbing the deceased at about 12.30pm and the deceased died in the hospital before 2pm and was buried in the evening. The Court held that it is thus inferable from the short time lag between the stabbing and the deceased’s death that the knife stab was the direct and proximate cause of the deceased’s death. The Court further held that there was no ounce of evidence that something inimical to the deceased germinated in between the short time of the killer stab and the demise of the deceased, as to warrant the presentation of any medical evidence or the employment of the doctrine of novus acts interveniens. Relying on UYO v A-G, BENDEL STATE (1986) 1 NWLR (PT. 17) 418, the Apex Court held that the Appellant’s quarrel with what transpired in the hospital is of no moment, because where medical treatment given to a murder victim is reasonably proper and in good faith, but the deceased still dies, the accused will still be criminally liable if the death resulted from his act on the deceased, except where the deceased died from other causes. On the 3rd ingredient, regarding whether the Appellant intended to cause death or bodily harm to the deceased, the Apex Court expatiated on the word “intention” as connoting the purpose or design with which an act is done and the foreknowledge of an act coupled with the desire of such foreknowledge and its consequences. The Apex Court held that there was classical evidence on record that the Appellant brutalised the deceased with a stab with a knife, which qualifies as a dangerous weapon under the law. The Court also held that according to the uncontroverted evidence of PW2, the Appellant stabbed the deceased with a knife on his chest, a critical region of the body that warehouses the heart that oxygenates life and secures human life, and the deceased victim was near the weapon of crime (the knife). The Court held that in effect, the trio criteria to determine the intention to kill were satisfied, and the natural consequences of stabbing the deceased on the lifeline of his body, was to terminate his life or, at least cause him grievous bodily harm. The Supreme Court held that the third ingredient of the offence was thus, duly proved by the Respondent. The Apex Court also held that the Appellant, having rested his case on that of the prosecution without testifying or fielding any witness, is deemed to have adopted the evidence of the prosecution albeit in the hope that even if the evidence is believed, it will be insufficient to convict him. The Court held that resting a case on that of the prosecution signifies that there is no rebuttal of the prosecution’s witness, and the court has the latitude to draw inferences from the uncontroverted evidence, hence, such accused person cannot be heard to quarrel with any portion of the evidence adduced by the prosecution. The Apex Court found that it was clear that the Respondent proved the necessary ingredients of culpable homicide punishable with death against the Appellant beyond reasonable doubt, and the Court of Appeal rightly affirmed the judgement of the trial court. Appeal Dismissed. Representation S. O. Ikani for the Appellant. Ibrahim G. Adamu (holding the Fiat of the Honourable Attorney-General of Kaduna State) for the Respondent. Reported by Optimum Publishers Limited, Publishers of the Nigerian Monthly Law Reports (NMLR)(An affiliate of Babalakin & Co.)

TueSday, DECEMBER 23, 2025 • T H I S D AY

NEWS

L-R: Executive Director, Mama Centre for Marginalised, Chioma Kanu; Country Head, Avocats Sans Frontières, France (ASF), Angela Uwandu Uzoma-Iwuchukeu; Founding Chief Facilitator, Edeika Trauma Care Centre/ Equity Advocates, Mrs Ene Ede, during a capacity building session on mainstreaming gender perspectives ENOCK REUBEN in the use of the death penalty organised by ASF, in Abuja recently

Chair, Arbitration & ADR Commission, ICC, Dorothy Udeme Ufot, SAN

ASF Advocates for Gender Perspectives in Use of Death Penalty in Nigeria

EnockReubeninAbuja

An international nongovernmental organisation, Avocats Sans Frontières (ASF) France, formerly known as Lawyers Without Borders has said that no fewer than 82 female Nigerians are on death row in various correctional centres across the country, even as it advocated for gender perspective in application of death penalty. The advocacy was made

at the two-day workshop organised by ASF to champion the course of the female inmates who are on death row, as the World Women’s Rights Organisation celebrates in Abuja the 16 DaysAdvocacy on Gender Based Violence. At the Workshop themed: “Capacity-building Session on Mainstreaming Gender Perspective in the Use of the Death Penalty”, the Country Director, ASF France in Nigeria, Angela

Class of ’85 Marks 40 Years at the Bar, Honours Chiroma, CJN and Legal Icons The class of1985 graduates of the Nigerian Law School on Tuesday rolled out the drums to celebrate 40 years since their Call to the Bar, honouring the DirectorGeneral of the Nigerian Law School, Professor Isa Hayatu Chiroma, SAN, alongside 26 distinguished members of the class. The landmark anniversary brought together leading figures in Nigeria’s legal, political and academic circles. The event, held at the prestigious Lagos Oriental Hotel, marked four decades of professional service by members of the Class of ’85. It attracted an array of eminent guests, underscoring the class’s enduring influence within the legal profession and national life. Among those in attendance were the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, GCON, accompanied by her spouse, Mr Akin Kekere-Ekun, OFR. Governors of Lagos and Oyo State graced the occasion as Special Guests of Honour, lending further prominence to the celebration.

The Keynote Address was delivered by renowned international academic and professor of law, Professor Fidelis Oditah, KC, SAN. Also present was the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, who doubles as the leader of the Class of ’85. In his Keynote lecture, Professor Oditah emphasised that for any civil or criminal justice system to effectively serve society, it must be perceived as just, fair and efficient in resolving disputes. He stressed that public confidence in the Judiciary, is fundamental to social stability and economic growth.

Uzoma-Iwuchukwu said the statistics showed that the situation in Nigeria is the highest in sub-Saharan Africa, with those on death row somehow neglected and forgotten. Uzoma-Iwuchukwu further

said: “We strongly believe that these women, who have often been neglected, forgotten, because they are behind bars and on death row need a voice, we have decided to raise their voices and their peculiar circumstances.

This is because there are gender issues around the application of the capital punishment. It is often projected as being neutral, but the death penalty is not neutral. She added that “a lot of

these women are victims of domestic violence, who, often when they react and it leads to maybe homicide cases, the criminal justice system fails to recognise them as victims as they go through the justice system”.

Stories by Steve Aya

issued and signed by the Chief Registrar of the Lagos State High Court, Mr T. A. Elias. According to the statement, the vacation was approved by the Chief Judge of Lagos State, Honourable Justice Kazeem Olanrewaju Alogba, in line with Order 49, Rules 4(c) and 5 of the High Court of Lagos State (Civil Procedure) Rules, 2019. The approved Christmas vacation will run from

Wednesday, December 24, 2025, to Friday, January 2, 2026. Normal court sittings and administrative activities are expected to resume across all judicial divisions on Monday, January 5, 2026. The Judiciary clarified that urgent matters arising during the vacation period would not be neglected. Judges to whom cases have already been assigned will attend to urgent applications, while newly filed urgent

matters will be handled by judges specifically designated for that purpose. On behalf of the Lagos State Judiciary, the Chief Registrar extended warm season’s greetings to Judges, Magistrates and staff, wishing them a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. He also expressed appreciation for their dedication and service, throughout the outgoing year.

Lagos Judiciary Declares Christmas Vacation, Urges Staff to Uphold Excellence The Lagos State Judiciary has announced a twoweek Christmas vacation for its staff, scheduled to commence on Wednesday, December 24, 2025. The break applies to all Divisions of the Lagos State High Court, marking the end of official court activities for the year. The announcement was contained in a press release

ICC Nigeria to Host 10th Anniversary of ICC Africa Conference on International Arbitration & ADR in Lagos The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Nigeria is pleased to announce that it will host the 10th Anniversary of the ICC Africa Conference on International Arbitration & ADR in Lagos, Nigeria, from June 3rd to 5th, 2026. This prestigious event will take place at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria

Island, and is expected to attract delegates and speakers from around the world, particularly from African countries. Themed "A Decade of Excellence in International Arbitration & ADR", a release by ICC said ‘This is a flagship event for the continent, providing a platform for Lawyers, Arbitrators, Judges,

policymakers and other stakeholders, to discuss the latest developments and trends in international arbitration and ADR. Since its inception in 2016, the conference has been held in Lagos, Nigeria, for the first seven editions, before moving to Nairobi, Kenya, for the 8th and 9th editions. The 10th Anniversary Celebration

J-K Gadzama LLP Hosts Landmark Year-End Celebration J-K Gadzama LLP marked a major milestone by hosting its 26th Endof-Year Award and Appreciation Evening, alongside its 11th Annual Christmas Carol. The event, held on Monday, 15 December 2025, brought together

leading figures from the Bar and Bench, as well as key justice sector stakeholders. Distinguished attendees included the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, SAN; former

Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice Ibrahim Auta; and former Chairman of the Body of Benchers, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN. Chaired by Professor Jerry Gana and Mrs Lucy Gana, and hosted

by Chief Gadzama and his wife, Mrs Christine Gadzama, the evening blended corporate celebration with festive culture. Highlights included carol renditions by the Abuja City Choir and a l message by Apostle Selman.

conference marks a significant milestone, and the event returns to its roots in Lagos, Nigeria, where it all began’. Prof Dorothy Ufot, SAN, Chair of the Arbitration & ADR Commission of ICC Nigeria, in a statement said: "We are thrilled to announce that ICC Nigeria will host the 10th Anniversary of the ICC Africa Conference on International Arbitration & ADR in 2026. This conference promises to be the mother of all Arbitration and ADR conferences on the African Continent, and we are excited to bring together the best minds in international arbitration and ADR from across Africa and beyond.

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President, Nigerian Bar Association, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN

Yuletide 2025: How Lawyers Will Spend Their Time The yuletide is that special season of the year when professionals take time off tedious work to unwind, relax, feast and holiday with their families. For this year’s Christmas and New Year, THISDAY LAWYER asked a cross-section of Lawyers how they plan to unwind during the yuletide. Would it still be all work and no play for some, or a total shutdown and merry-making for others?

Will Touch Base With My Roots - NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN This year’s yuletide holiday, will be a time of retreat and reconnection. I intend to travel to my hometown, where I can rest, spend quality time with my extended family, and enjoy simple pleasures like sleeping, resting, spending time with my family, strolling through familiar paths, attending social events, meetings and engaging

with friends, relations and community members. It is an opportunity to touch base with my roots, to recharge, and to find strength in the bonds of kinship and tradition. That quiet reconnection, is the true gift of the season. Above all, it is a season

"Above all, it is a season that calls us to serve, not just the law, but the people, with renewed purpose and humility"

that calls us to serve, not just the law, but the people, with renewed purpose I Will Spend Christmas Away, Thankand humility. ing God for His Mercies - Chief Wole Olanipekun, CFR, SAN, former NBA Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN President As a Lawyer, Christmas reminds me of the I Will Rest and Relax - Dame glorious birth of the Lord in a manger, a very Priscilla Kuye, former NBA President lowly estate for the one who is Lord of I will spend the Christmas holiday Lords and King of Kings; translating thanking God to the truism that for the year 2025, Christmas is all and praying for about humility, His Blessings simplicity, love, in 2026; also thoughtfulness reflecting on and sacrifice. the birth of Jesus God willing, I’ll spend this year’s Yuletide Christ. Rest and at a destination already booked and arranged for, in a relaxed mood, thanking relaxation, are God for the grace of life, and appreciating also essential Him for His incredible mercies over me, for me. my family, undertakings and enterprises. I wish you In particular, I’ll continue to honour and all a Merry glorify Him for always vindicating and Christmas, and a prosperous 2026. justifying me! Dame Priscilla Kuye

Chief Wole Olanipekun, CFR, SAN

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Yuletide 2025: How Lawyers Will Spend Their Time I’ll Praise and Worship God, then Jollificate - OCJ Okocha, SAN, former NBA President I am a Christian, and Christmas is the celebration of the birth of my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. I usually spend Christmas Day with my family. We go to Church to pray, to praise and worship God; and then the jollification begins. Merry Christmas to All! OCJ Okocha, SAN Christmas is a Season of Joy J Daudu, SAN - former NBA President Christmas defines humanity, and is not targeted at any group or profession. So, one’s profession does not really matter. Let all come and drink from the waters of salvation which is Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour. We commemorate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, because of the critical importance/significance of God Almighty’s plan for the salvation of humanity. Finally, what determines how Christmas is spent, lies in the reason for the season. Unknown to many people, Christmas by its very meaning is a season of ‘Joy’ simply because we celebrate the salvation of mankind as planned by our Creator. That ‘Joy’ marks the season and so, throughout Christmas and beyond, I strive to be ‘Happy’ because the Lord my God has sent his Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ, to relieve me and the entire humanity of the burdens of this world and access eternity through salvation. So, let’s be joyful and happy, as we mark or commemorate the birth of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. J B Daudu, SAN I Will Reflect on 2026 - Professor Bankole Sodipo, SAN Christmas is a season to recall the sacrificial life of Jesus Christ, and reflect on the extent that my life may have been impactful. During the yuletide season, I will reflect on what my role should be in 2026, in shaping the Nigerian legal system and the Nigerian nation.

Professor Bankole Sodipo, SAN

they still make, buy and display the lit Christmas tree with boxes of gifts A Reminder that Law is an under them, identifying with what they Instrument of Justice, Mercy, and stand for. Fairness - Jean Kiazor-Anisere, The tree SAN reminds us of Christmas, to me as a Lawyer, is a His crucifixion season of reflection, renewal, and on a tree, and recommitment to the values that redemption define both my faith in humanity of mankind. and my professional calling. Christ hath It is a reminder that the law, at its redeemed us best, is an instrument of justice, mercy, from the curse and fairness. The Christmas message of the law, being of peace, goodwill, and compassion made a curse for us: for it is written, challenges me to look beyond Cursed is every one that hangeth on technicalities and remember that at a tree. the heart of every brief, dispute, or The light is to remind us that Jesus opinion are people, often vulnerable, Christ was the true Light, which lighteth hopeful, or every man that cometh into the world. in need of Wherever He is, darkness must disappear. understandThe gifts remind us of God’s love for ing. the world, and salvation of mankind. For I am God so loved the world that He gave spending his only begotten Son, that whosoever this year’s believeth in him should not perish, but Christmas, have everlasting life. with my grandson and his parents I will go-a-fishing of men and help in England. It’s my grandson’s first unbelievers to learn why they should Christmas and I can’t wait to share be saved and be saved, fellowship with this special moment with him. friends and relations, blessing the needy Happy holidays to all, and may and poor, attending Christmas Carols, this Christmas bring good tidings relaxing and preparing for 2026 after of great joy to all! taking stock of 2025. Jean Kiazor-Anisere, SAN

Mike Igbokwe, SAN

I Will Display and Light the Christmas Tree and Boxes - Mike Igbokwe, SAN This is the time to remember and celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, and His work of salvation of mankind. No matter how much some persons have commercialised Christmas,

I Will Spend Quality Time With Family While Engaging in Quiet Reflection Jonathan Gunu Taidi, SAN, former General Secretary, NBA Christmas, to me, is a season of sober reflection and renewed commitment to service. It reinforces the core values that define the legal profession: integrity, sacrifice, justice, and compassion. Beyond the celebration, it is a reminder that the rule of law must always be driven by conscience, humanity, and an unwavering sense of social responsibility. This yuletide, I intend to spend quality time with family, while also engaging in quiet

"It is a reminder that the law, at its best, is an instrument of justice, mercy, and fairness"

reflection and strategic planning for the year ahead. It is a period to recalibrate, give back where possible, and reaffirm my dedication to mentoring younger members of the Bar, and contributing meaningfully to the advancement of the legal profession and our nation. Jonathan Gunu Taidi, SAN, Bencher & former General Secretary, NBA My Best and Happiest Period of the Year - Professor Olanrewaju Onadeko, SAN Christmas season has always been, my best and happiest period of the year. I recall the excitement in the air in my primary school days, fuelled by the upcoming festivities, and the joy of moving to a higher class the following year. I must not forget the tingling feeling of the gently breezing harmattan winds, which we hardly experience these days! The joyful feeling of the impending birth of Christ Jesus subsists though, and I pray that all mankind will continue to experience His peace on earth. The prevailing situation in the country, has manifold implications for all of us; and as we go about our preparations, we should always spare a thought for others, especially those that may be coping with different challenges unknown to us. In the spirit of Christmas, no kind gesture should be skipped. It is unbelievable, how what is considered humble, may have profound impact on their recipients. Let us spread the love of Christ, in whatever manner we can afford this season. Merry Christmas. Professor Olanrewaju Onadeko, SAN I Will Set Aside My Bib, Wig and Robe to Rest - Osayaba Giwa-Osagie, SAN Christmas marks the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, which brings cont'd on page VIII

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Yuletide 2025: How Lawyers Will Spend Their Time

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cont'd from page VII

hope to the hopeless and joy to the whole world. It is a season to reflect on the entire year and count my blessings. Christmas is when I set aside my bib, wig and robe to rest from a full year of hard legal work, so I can start the new year refreshed and ready for fresh legal challenges. As a Senior Advocate navigating Nigeria's complex legal terrain, from corporate transactions to civil disputes, this season calls for a reflection on cases where equity prevailed over the technicalities of the law. It rekindles my unwavering commitment to integrity, excellence and professionalism, which are the enduring foundations of my career. I will spend this year’s yuletide holiday, reflecting on the goodness of God over my family and my legal practice. It would be an opportunity to reflect on the demanding year, while strategising towards the new year. As expected, it will be full of joy and laughter, feasting with family and friends, as well as an opportunity to reach out to the less privileged. As the year comes to an end, it will also be a time to pray for our nation, Nigeria, and for a stronger Judiciary that mirrors justice and fairness. Osayaba Giwa-Osagie, SAN I Will Reflect on the Goodness and Endless Mercies of God - Dr Paulyn Abhulimen-Okpalefe, SAN As Christians, Christmas is an annual event celebrated to commemorate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is about how Jesus came to give us love, hope and joy - through divine obedience of from Our Mother Mary! That message doesn't change from year to year. It is everlasting! As for me, the good news of Christmas is that even when the world or our circumstances change or all odds are against us, the good news remains unchanged! The message of Christmas is timeless. As long as we are alive, we must

use the period to prepare, and open our hearts more to allow the Lord dwell in our hearts. This must be reflected in how we treat one another - putting smiles on the faces of those less privileged and reaching out to our neighbours, families and friends. I will be having a quiet Christmas with my family and loved ones, and reflecting on the goodness and endless mercies of God over me and my family. Thank you Jesus! Dr Paulyn Abhulimen-Okpalefe, SAN Time to Pause with Gratitude to God - Kingsley Jesuorobo As a Lawyer, Christmas is a season of reflection and recalibration. It brings into focus the enduring values at the heart of the profession - justice, compassion, service, and integrity - beyond the constant demands of deadlines and advocacy. It is a time to pause with gratitude to God, and to remember that the law ultimately exists to serve people and uphold human dignity. This yuletide, I intend to slow down (a bit) and spend quality time with family and loved ones, embracing rest, meaningful conversations, and quiet moments of reflection. I also look forward to renewing myself mentally and spiritually, while thoughtfully setting intentions and

agenda for the year ahead with clarity, command and control. Kingsley Jesuorobo, Lawyer, Poet, Canada I Will Focus on Rest and Time With Loved Ones - Adedapo Tunde-Olowu, SAN As 2025 ends, Christmas reminds me that beyond the courtroom, humanity matters most. It is about justice, mercy, and goodwill. This season, I am focusing on: Rest, time with loved ones, Gratitude for family, friends, colleagues and clients, reflection, lessons learned and bold goals for 2026, Prayers for Nigeria’s peace, prosperity and harmony. Wishing you joy, peace, and a fulfilling New Year ahead! Adedapo Tunde-Olowu, SAN I’ll Relax With Children and Grandchildren - Professor Yemi Akinseye George, SAN Christmas is a time of rest, love and sharing life with family and friends. Love indeed, was born at Christmas. I will be home, relaxing and sharing life with my children and grandchildren. Singing and listening to carols, Christmas renditions and Bible reading. Professor Yemi Akinseye George, SAN

"It is also a time to proclaim the good news of the birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, and to spread the gospel of peace and salvation to as many people as possible"

I Will Share Love With the Less Privileged - Kunle Edun, SAN Christmas season to me is a period of sober reflection, love and celebration of the virtue of humanity, as represented by our Lord Jesus Christ. Living without having a positive effect on the community where we live, does not represent the virtue of Christmas. I make bold to say that, we make mockery of the essence of Christmas when our daily life is one replete with looting the commonwealth of the people, weaponising religion to achieve political and personal gains, and revel in the senseless killings and kidnapping of

fellow human beings. We all have one blood running through all of us, black and white; Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, Urhobo, Tiv, Efik and Ijaw. The same God created all of us. Let us celebrate our unity and humanity. I will spend this festive period by taking some deserved rest from work, and spending more time with the family. I will also consider visitation to some less privileged persons, to make them feel loved. Kunle Edun, SAN I Will Bond With Wife and Children - Ebun Olu-Adegboruwa, SAN Christmas to me is a time of reflection, on the events of the year 2025, the past legal year, the events shaping our country Nigeria and the need to create happiness for people around me, especially my family, my workers and my clients. It is also a time to proclaim the good news of the birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christmas and to spread the gospel of peace and salvation to as many people as possible. Personally, it is also a time to take a break and rest from the crowded work schedule, even though the period will be taken up in mass evangelism across many locations in Lagos. I plan to spend the Yuletide season with my wife and children, on holiday together as a family. It’s usually a time for bonding, for the family. I will also undertake my medicals, and plan for the coming year 2026. Ebun Olu-Adegboruwa, SAN I Will Take Two of Our Children on a 2-Week Vacation - Dr Richard Oma-Ahuonaruogho, SAN Christmas is a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. It is significant, as a period cont'd on page IX

IX coVER

TueSday, DECEMBER 23, 2025 • T H I S D AY

Yuletide 2025: How Lawyers Will Spend Their Time cont'd from page VIII

which enables one to reflect on life and one’s goals in life. Coming a week before the beginning of the new year, Christmas portends great promise and expectation for a better forthcoming year. By God's grace, I will be spending this year's Christmas with my wife and two of our children, on a two-week vacation from home. Dr Richard Oma-Ahuonaruogho, SAN Christmas Always Holds a Special Place in My Heart - Professor Ernest Ojukwu, SAN Christmas holds a special place in my heart, a time for reconnecting with loved ones. Though tinged with nostalgia since losing my mother, Helen, on December 22nd, 2008, this year's festivities are particularly meaningful. I'm celebrating a milestone in my legal career: the Legal Practitioners Bill 2025, a culmination of work begun in 2004, is now before the National Assembly. I'm also proud of Nigeria's exit from the FATF grey list, a testament to the dedication of the Nigerian Bar Association Anti-Money Laundering Committee. These achievements make this Christmas, truly unforgettable. Professor Ernest Ojukwu, SAN Time to Demonstrate Christ’s Example of Love - Dr Agada Elachi, SAN Christmas for me, is a time to demonstrate Christ's example of caring for the less fortunate. It's a time to show kindness, compassion and care, not just to friends and family, but to those around us who are less privileged. The essential message of Christmas is one of sacrificial love. Christmas for most of us, is also a time to rest a bit from the hustle and bustle of the outgoing year, and to prepare for the New Year. I wish us all a blessed Christmas holiday, and a rewarding 2026. Dr Agada Elachi, SAN I Will Rest and Recharge for Another Active Work Season in 2026 - Uche

Val Obi, SAN As a Lawyer that has been busy for most part of the year, Christmas is a vacation period during which one takes a little rest and recharge for another active work season starting in January. It is also a joyful period of festivities. As a Christian such yuletide is marked by certain religious programmes and practices of the advent, including the carols and jingles. It is also a period to share with loved ones, and those in needy through acts of charity and philanthropy. It is also a period to travel, either within the country or abroad to visit places of interest and generally connect with the weather and season, depending on your exact location thereby adding value to humanity and the true essence of life. This will characterise my moments and activities, during this season.

of justice, service, and compassion. It is a timely reminder that the law, beyond its technical rigours, must always be anchored on humanity, fairness, and the protection of the vulnerable. The message of Christmas reinforces my abiding belief that leadership within the legal profession is a sacred trust, one that demands integrity, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to the rule of law and national cohesion. This yuletide, I intend to spend quality time with my family, reconnect with loved ones, and give profound thanks to God for His grace throughout the year. This season is, however, particularly poignant for me, as I prepare to lay my beloved mother to rest this December. She attained the godly age of 90 years and passed on peacefully in her sleep. We shall honour her life and legacy in death, in Jesus’ name. Amen. The season also offers an opportunity for quiet reflection, earnest prayer for our nation and the legal profession, and modest acts of charity. It reminds us that the true essence of Christmas lies not merely in celebration, but in love, service, compassion, and hope for a better society. Uche Val Obi, SAN May we all be preserved to enjoy the blessings of this season and Time for Sober Reflection on beyond, in God’s name. Higher Ideals of Justice, Service and Compassion - Dr Monday Dr Monday Ubani, SAN Ubani, SAN Christmas, to me as a Lawyer and Sacred Season of Gratitude and former Vice Reflections - Ayo Akintunde, SAN President of Christmas, to me, is a sacred season of the Nigerian gratitude and Bar Asso- reflections. It’s ciation, is a a reminder of season that God’s love, calls for grace and sober reflec- redemption tion on the to the world. higher ideals A call to live with humility, compassion, and purpose beyond our daily pursuits. This yuletide, I will spend time in quiet thanksgiving with family, rest from the year’s demands, and extend kindness to others, embracing the true spirit of Christmas, love, peace, and goodwill.

"Christmas for most of us, is also a time to rest a bit from the hustle and bustle of the outgoing year, and to prepare for the New Year"

Ayo Akintunde, SAN

I Will Offer Pro bono Services to Deserving Indigents - Rickey Tarfa, SAN Christmas and the season is a special time to think, reflect and meditate on the true meaning of the season. The birth of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, and the values that go with it. Jesus embodies true love, kindness, compassion, affection, pity, empathy, humanity etc. As a Christian Lawyer, the Christmas and festive season offers us the opportunity to strive and follow what our Lord Jesus Christ embodies. We try to reflect on the values, and ensure that our professional conduct is in line with his teachings and the Christian principles of honesty, fairness, justice, peace, integrity, love, compassion and respect for other human beings generally. We are to awaken our spirit of kindness. Remember friends and persons in need. Extend our hands of generosity in many ways, and as a Lawyer, extend your kindness in offering pro bono services, to deserving indigent persons and those in need. This could be in addition to material presents including food and food stuffs to family, friends, colleagues and those in need. Work and improve your quality of relationships with family, friends, relatives, and colleagues, by being together and sharing values and quality time. Share the word of God in whatever way, and increase evangelism by making many appreciate Christ as our Lord and Saviour, as best as one can. In all, pray, praise and give thanks to God Almighty for his mercy, continuing blessings and the gift of life. It is our sincere prayer for this and all seasons, that God will continue to give us a good and better nation in Nigeria with the complete fear of God, now and forever more. Amen. Compliments of the season. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year in advance. Rickey Tarfa, SAN Epilogue For Nigerian Lawyers, it will be a Christmassy 2025, in spite of the palpable economic and security challenges. All agreed that rest is crucial this yuletide, as well and showing compassion to the needy. THISDAY LAWYER wishes Nigerian Lawyers, a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

TueSday, DECEMBER 23, 2025 • T H I S D AY

My Brief by SKB stephen kola-balogun

stephenkolabalogun@yahoo.com

The Prerogative of Mercy Stalemate on Maryam Sanda

The Prerogative of Mercy Stalemate on Maryam Sanda could have been avoided by inviting the Attorney General of the Federation as an Amicus Curiae.

be interpreted as being superior to the other, unless the Constitution specifically states so. The Constitution should have been effectively amended along the following lines, to state that notwithstanding the provisions of Section 175 of this Constitution, the President shall not exercise his powers to grant a Prerogative of Mercy under this Constitution to anyone, while an appeal is pending to the Supreme Court.

Background fter we had engaged in a robust argument on the issue, I read with profound interest last week, the position of the Editor of ThisDay Lawyer, Onikepo Braithwaite, on the most recent controversy of the Prerogative of Mercy provisions as exercised by President Bola Tinubu under Section 175 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) in her weekly Column on Tuesday, 16th December, 2025 and titled “Maryam Sanda: Presidential Pardon vs Conclusive Justice”. The Editor robustly defended her position, on whether it was right for the President to commute the death sentence which had already been handed down to Maryam Sanda, but subject to a pending appeal to the Supreme Court. She went on to conclude that the Presidency ought to have waited until the appeal was determined, before commuting her death sentence. In my respectful opinion, we need to distinguish between what ordinarily can be considered to be the ideal situation, as against the true and proper position of the law as laid out under the Constitution. In doing so, we need to consider the historical nature of the Prerogative of Mercy provisions in previous Constitutions.

Maryam Sanda

the President's power of pardon, as inadvertently undermine or contradict discussed in legal analyses of that era, another provision, and in the same document. Meaning of ‘Without Prejudice’ Because of this lingering controversy on in an Enactment the effect and meaning of without prejudice Previous Constitutions Now, when a clause or statement , when the 1979 Constitution later came Under the 1963 Republican Constitution, says ‘without prejudice’ to a provision into effect after several years of military Section 101 was the equivalent of Section found elsewhere in a document," it rule, the words ‘without prejudice’ to the 175 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended ) typically means: Prerogative of Mercy provisions which were on the Prerogative of Mercy, while Section *Non-impairment*: The provision in the 1963 Republican Constitution were 120 was the equivalent of Section 233 of being discussed does not limit, negate, removed, and the same was repeated in the 1999 Constitution (as amended) on or impair the validity, enforceability, or the 1999 Constitution (as amended). This appellate jurisdiction. Section 120 which also effect of another provision elsewhere removal allowed the Supreme Court to dealt with appeals to the Supreme Court, in the document. assert its authority over the Prerogative stated that this was without prejudice to the *Preservation of rights*: The clause of Mercy provisions, as was done in Prerogative of Mercy provisions under Section aims to preserve the rights, obligations, the case of Monsuru Solola & Anor 101 of the 1963 Constitution. Section 120 or protections afforded by the other v The State 2005 LPELR-3101(SC), in using the phrase "Without prejudice” to provision, ensuring they remain intact by not taking judicial notice of a pardon Section 101 (relating to the prerogative of and unaffected. or a commutation of a sentence given by mercy), created legal debate about whether In essence, it is a legal safeguard a President during the pendency of an a Supreme Court decision could override that ensures one provision doesn't appeal, but the question remains, is this constitutional? I think not, and base my argument on the fact that as a consequence of the Supreme Court’s decision in Monsuru “The words “notwitwstanding the provisions of Solola & Anor v The State (Supra), the word “notwithstanding” now becomes a Section 175 ………” ought to have been included necessary constitutional amendment that remains omitted from Section 233 of the as a consequential constitutional amendment under 1999 Constitution (as amended). The Section 233 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) words “notwitwstanding the provisions of Section 175 ………” ought to have been for clarity and certainty, so as to have the desired included as a consequential constitutional amendment under Section 233 of the 1999 effect the Supreme Court was seeking to achieve, Constitution (as amended) for clarity and certainty, so as to have the desired effect the in trying to jealousy safeguard and assert its Supreme Court was seeking to achieve, jurisdiction as the final authority on appeals under in trying to jealousy safeguard and assert its jurisdiction as the final authority on the 1999 Constitution…. both parties, the Supreme appeals under the 1999 Constitution (as Court and the Presidency, seem to have acted inap- amended). This is also significant because, as the Editor pointed out last week, no propriately by not cooperating with one another” particular section of the Constitution should

Meaning of ‘Notwithstanding’ in an Enactment ‘Notwithstanding’ is a legal term used to indicate an exception or override to a previous statement, provision, or section in a document. When used in a section, it typically means: Exception or override: The provision or section that follows "notwithstanding" takes precedence over any conflicting or potentially conflicting provisions, mentioned earlier in the document. Precedence: The clause or section containing ‘notwithstanding’ will govern or prevail, despite any inconsistent or contradictory language elsewhere in the document In essence, notwithstanding is used to clarify that a particular provision or section supersedes others, ensuring its primary in interpretation. Since the words notwithstanding do not appear under Section 233 of the 1999 Constitution as amended, the Supreme Court, with the utmost respect, were effectively amending the Constitution through the back door in Monsuru Solola & Anor v The State (Supra) in its attempt to protect and guard its jurisdiction, but, unfortunately the lingering controversy remains unresolved. The Way Forward In the future, if again faced with such complex and conflicting issues of this nature, the Supreme Court should endeavour to invite an Amicus Curiae (in this instance the Attorney-General of the Federation), to address it on the issue, rather than be unduly critical and scathing of the Presidency. The Supreme Court was also being a judge of its own cause in trying to protect its jurisdiction, with regard to its powers under the Constitution. This is never ideal. More the reason why calling an Amicus Curiae to address the Court on this issue was not only compelling, but necessary. Furthermore, the Supreme Court can’t enforce the hanging of Maryam Sanda anyway! That power lies with the Executive, so what was all the fuss and fury about? As it turns out, both parties, the Supreme Court and the Presidency, seem to have acted inappropriately by not cooperating with one another. This was an unnecessary and avoidable conflict that could easily have been averted by calling the Attorney-General as an Amicus Curiae, to address and advise the Apex Court and Presidency accordingly. Indeed, this was the practice in the days of old, and it is sincerely hoped that the Supreme Court will make better use of this most useful practice in the future.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2025 • T H I S D AY

XII

T H I S D AY • TuesDAY DeCeMbeR 23, 2025

business/MOneYGuiDe

Business Leaders Urged to Embed Customer Service as Core Operational Culture

Oluchi Chibuzor

employee, regardless of role or seniority, must be equipped to attend to Business leaders and customers’ needs, because executives across Nigeria’s customer investment financial and digital services goes beyond money to sectors have been urged to include time, enquiries and embed customer service as engagement with products. a core operational culture “For any business to rather than confining it to thrive, customer service is a standalone department. key. When customers invest Speaking at Customer their time to understand your Service Standard Magazine product, that is already an 2025 Awards, held in Lagos, investment, and how you MD/CEO, Prospera Finance, respond determines your Umesegha Obinna, said success.” customer-centric strategies Commenting, the MD/ should drive enterprises CEO of Hegde-Point Security in a world driven by Services Dr. Afolabi Olatunji, technological innovation. described customers as According to him, the lifelong plug of every “Customer service should business, noting that one be regarded as a defining satisfied customer could feature of an organisation’s attract many more through operational DNA. Every referrals.

He stressed that how organisations manage existing customers determines future growth. “Customer is king. Regardless of complaints or feedback, we prioritise listening to our customers because feedback helps us build a sustainable business,” he said, adding that organisations must focus on building deeper, customer-centric relationships with both existing and potential clients. Also speaking, the Deputy Managing Director, Entourage Integrated Trust Limited, Nkafuonye Philip, said delivering valueandunderstanding customers’ real needs naturally translates to improved return on investment (ROI).

L-R: Chairman of ALPi Group, Olasupo Shasore SAN; Mario Gomes, of Grupo Simples (ALPi Angola Corporate Client), Partner, ALPi Ghana, Nana Adjoa Hackman; Uyi Giwa-Osagie, Partner of ALPi Nigeria and Partner, ALPi Ghana, Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, during the opening of ALPi’s office in Luanda, Angola…recently

MARKET INDICATORS

ALPi Opens Angola Office, Making First Entry into Lusophone Africa Africa Law Practice International Group (ALPi Group), one of Africa’s leading PanAfrican corporate and commercial law firms, has announced the opening of a new office in Luanda, Angola, marking its first entry into a Lusophone African jurisdiction. Commenting on the launch, Chairman of ALPi Group and Co[1]Chairman of the Commonwealth Legal Network, Mr. Olasupo Shasore SAN, said: “Our entry into Angola is both deliberate and strategic. It reflects ALPi Group’s long-term vision of building a truly Pan-

African legal platform that mirrors Africa’s linguistic, legal and commercial diversity. Angola is central to Africa’s energy, infrastructure and trade future, and establishing a strong, locally grounded practice here enables us to better support crossborder investment, regional integration and Africa’s evolving role in the global economy.” Also commenting, Ms Nana Adjoa Hackman, Managing Partner of Africa Legal Associates (ALPi Ghana) stated: “ALPi’s expansion into Lusophone Africa completes an important chapter in our continental

strategy. Having built deep capacity across Anglophone Africa and the OHADA Francophone zone, Angola positions us at the intersection of Southern Africa, Lusophone ma rkets and global trade routes.” Welcoming ALPi’s entry into Angola, Mr. Mário Gomes, of Grupo Simples, one of Angola’s leading indigenous oil and gas services companies and a client of ALPi Angola, said: “We are pleased to be clients of ALPi Angola. Working with the firm in just these few weeks has opened our group of companies to opportunities in Angola and across the continent.”

Court Strikes Out FHT Mega Express Suit Against Parallex Bank The Lagos State High Court has struck out the suit filed by FHT Mega Express Limited against Parallex Bank and ordered the company to publish the court’s decision in three national newspapers, according to the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment obtained today. Justice A.T. Muyideen of the Ikeja Judicial Division, in the ruling delivered on 18 November 2025, terminated Suit No. LD/ ADR/6143/2025, in which FHT Mega Express Limited claimed that Parallex Bank was indebted to it. The company had initially sought ex-parte orders to attach funds belonging to the bank, but the court

refused the application and directed that the bank be served. The CTC of the judgment shows that Parallex Bank, upon being served, responded through its senior counsel, Dr. Kemi Pinheiro SAN, who filed multiple processes, including a preliminary objection dated 17 November 2025. In the objection, the bank contended that the suit was an abuse of court process. The bank’s filings, as captured in the certified judgment record, revealed that Parallex had earlier instituted Suit No. FHC/L/ CS/1774/2025 at the Federal High Court on 4 September 2025 against FHT Mega Express Limited, seeking

to recover over N4.5 billion allegedly owed by the company. The Federal High Court had reportedly ordered parties to maintain the status quo, a development FHT Mega Express failed to disclose before initiating the Lagos High Court action. According to the CTC, Parallex Bank argued that the company attempted to secretly obtain ex-parte orders to freeze the bank’s funds despite being aware of the subsisting Federal High Court proceedings. Following its failed exparte bid and confronted with the bank’s strong objection, FHT Mega Express applied on 18 November 2025 to discontinue the matter.

MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS (MiLLiOn nAiRA)

Lagos-based essential wear fashion brand, Folayemi Joshua, has taken a major step in its growth journey with the launch of its first-ever physical pop-up, held at Holiday Haus, curated by Pop of Culture in Lagos. The pop-up marked the brand’s transition

from a solely digital presence to an in-person retail experience, offering customers the opportunity to engage directly with its products for the first time. Known for its minimalist aesthetic and commitment to quality, the brand showcased a curated selection of its core pieces, characterised by clean cuts, refined finishing, and versatile designs suited

for everyday wear. Rooted in its philosophy, “Look Your Best, Be the Best,” Folayemi Joshua has built a loyal online following by blending functionality with intentional design.” Speaking on the milestone, the brand’s Creative Director, Joshua Folayemi, described the pop-up as a defining moment.

119,037,577.07

-- Cbn bills Held by Money Holding sectors

9,291.49

Money supply (M2)

119,028,285.58

Quasi Money

79,681,419.97

-- narrow Money (M1)

39,346,865.60

---- Currency Outside Banks

4,646,794.28

---- Demand Deposits

34,700,071.33

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

34,804,442.84

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

84,233,134.23

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

99,199,655.08

---- Credit to Government (Net)

24,787,980.96

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

0.00

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

0.00

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

74,411,674.12

--Other Assets Net

2,603,854.03

Reserve Money (Base Money)

36,641,142.21

--Currency in Circulation

5,057,881.01

--Banks Reserves

31,583,261.21

--Special Intervention Reserves

284,361.95 • Source - CBN

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) Month

October 2025

Inter-Bank Call Rate

October 2025

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

27.00

Treasury Bill Rate

15.07

Savings Deposit Rate

7.43

1 Month Deposit Rate

11.37

3 Months Deposit Rate

11.32

6 Months Deposit Rate

11.12

12 Months Deposit Rate

11.78

Prime Lending rate

18.89

Maximum Lending Rate

29.56

FJ Makes Physical Retail Debut with Holiday Haus Pop-up Sunday Ehigiator

October 2025

Month

Money Supply (M3)

NSE MARKET INDEX CAP

0.75%(52%YoY)

Index

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

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE As AT 24TH nOVeMbeR , 2025

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

XIII

T H I S D AY • TUESDAY DECEmBER 23, 2025

mARKET NEWS

Stock Market Opens New Week Positive, Advances by N256.08bn

Kayode Tokede

The stock market section of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), yesterday gained N256.08 billion to open trading activities on Xmas week positive over investors demand for BUA Cement Plc and 33 others. The stock market rally is supported by sustained investors’ appetite for BUA

Cement, among other stocks with strong fundamentals, amid improved market confidence. As the stock price of BUA Cement gained 2.35 per cent or N4.00 per share to close at N174.00 per share, the market capitalisation of the NGX closed for trading at N97.193 trillion, about N256.08 billion or 0.26 per cent from N96.937 trillion the market closed for trading last week.

P R I C E S MAIN BOARD

F O R DEALS

Consequently, the NGX All-Share Index closed for trading at 152,459.07 basis points, about 401.69 basis points or 0.26 per cent growth from 152,057.38 basis points the stock market opened for trading this week. With the growth of 0.26 per cent, the NGX ASI Month-toDate and Year-to-Date returns advanced to +6.2per cent and +48.1per cent, respectively. Sectoral performance was

S E C U R I T I E S MARKET PRICE

qUANTITy TRADED

mixed as the NGX Industrial Goods Index gained 0.9per cent and NGX Consumer Goods Index advanced by 0.5 per cent advanced while the NGX Insurance Index dipped by 0.5 per cent. The NGX Banking Index and NGX Oil & Gas index closed flat. As measured by market breadth, market sentiment was positive as Aluminium Extrusion Industries, 33 other stocks gained relative to 19

T R A D E D

vALUE TRADED ( N )

MAIN BOARD

A S

O F

losers. Aluminium Extrusion Industries led the advancers’ table by 9.72 per cent, closing at N13.55, International Energy Insurance trailed by 9.69 per cent, ending the session at N2.49 while Mecure Industries gained by 9.64 per cent, settling at N60.30 per share. Also, Royal Exchange grew by 9.60 per cent, finishing at N1.94 and Austinlaz rose by 9.50 per cent, closing at N2.65 per share.

Conversely, Custodian Investment and ABC Transport led the decliners’ table by 10 per cent each, settling at N35.10 and N3.15 per share respectively. Similarly, Prestige Assurance dropped by 7.41 per cent, finishing at N1.50, Guinea Insurance she’d by 7.38 per cent, closing at N1.13 while Ellah Lakes fell by 6.45 per cent, ending the session at N13.05 per share.

D E C E M B E R / 1 8 / 2 5 DEALS

MARKET PRICE

qUANTITy TRADED

vALUE TRADED ( N)

XIV T H I S D AY TUESDAY DECEMBER 23, 2025 20 TR

UT H

& RE A SO

CHIDI ANSELM ODINKALU contends that the supreme court’s eventual position on emergency rule in Rivers is cynical and political

TINUBU’S RESCUE PLAN

See page 21

THE UNFINISHED DREAM OF A UNITED AFRICA

SHERIFF MAHMUD ISMAIL urges Africa to look ahead, to choose courage over caution, and integration over isolation

0 0

1000 mi 1000 km

See page 21

EDITORIAL

ABANDONED TO ROT AWAY...11

See page 22

opinion@thisdaylive.com

www.thisdaylive.com

The President is delivering on his promise, argues BAMIDELE ATOYEBI

Tuesday December 23, 2025 Vol 27. No 11222

THE SUPREME COURT’S EMERGENCY POLITICS “All judges are politicians whether they know it or not.” Enrique Petracchi, former Chief Justice of Argentina, (2002). Among lawyers trained in the traditions of the Common Law, judicial power is often mis-understood. In Nigeria, the 1999 Constitution divides the powers of the federation between the legislature, the executive and the judiciary. The first two are elected. Judges are not. In the elected arms, it vests the legislative and executive powers of the federation. In turn, the same constitution vests the “judicial powers of the Federation” in the courts. This suggests that judicial power is political not institutional. Yet, the tradition of Nigerian law is largely to equate judicial powers with the jurisdiction of courts to both adjudicate over cases and fashion remedies in accordance with the pleadings of the parties and with judicial interpretation of the applicable laws. That is an error. Jurisdiction is inherent in the judicial office; judicial power is functional in how the judicial deploys its jurisdiction behind the party or cause that it prefers. This is the sense in which lawyers trained in the methods of the Civil Law system speak of le pouvoir judiciaire – the judicial power. On 15 December 2025, Nigeria’s Supreme Court indulged in a dramatic demonstration of judicial power in a case in which it determined that it lacked jurisdiction on the facts. The dispute arose over the proclamation by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of a State of Emergency in Rivers State on 18 March 2025. The declared duration of the emergency was an initial period of six months. In the proclamation, the president also pronounced the suspension of the elected governor and House of Assembly of the state. At the time, the governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara – who has recently christened himself a lifelong “progressive” – was in supposedly retrograde company in the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP), on whose platform he was elected. Some 23 days after the emergency proclamation, 11 Governors elected on the platform of the PDP - naturally suffering from a profound bout of “there but for the grace of geography go I” - invoked the original jurisdiction of the Supreme Court to challenge the constitutionality emergency proclamation. Under Nigeria’s constitution, the Supreme Court is the final court of appeal in the country and most cases get to the court by way of an appeal from lower courts. However, the court also has original jurisdiction as a

court of both first and final instance in legal disputes between the federation and states or between states among themselves. When this case was filed, the emergency still had five months and one week to run. A Supreme Court which desired could easily have accorded it due priority and dealt with it expeditiously. The case concerning Local Government autonomy filed in May 2024 (which arrived the court by similar means), for instance, took only 45 days from filing to judgment on 11 July of the same year. In this case concerning emergency rule in Rivers State, however, the Supreme Court chose a deliberately somnolent route to scheduling. Everything the court did subsequently appeared to have been underpinned by that imperative. On 18 September 2025, the emergency proclamation in Rivers State became spent and the suspended institutions and officials were restored to office. By the time the Supreme Court found time to address the issues posed for it in the case three months thereafter, five of the 11 governors who filed the original action had relocated their party loyalty from the PDP to the president’s All Progressives Congress (APC). Two more would do so in the days immediately following the judgment. No one will ever truly know whether the jurisprudence of political coercion confirmed in this case had anything to do with the desperation of these gubernatorial acts of party political transfiguration. After their judgment, the Supreme Court released an unsigned, 14-page media summary of the majority judgment of Mohammed Baba Idris, who led a majority of six of seven Justices. There followed a public race to unravel what the Justices had decided. The media reported that the Supreme Court had licensed the president to suspend elected state officials under colour of an emergency.

Femi Falana SAN, provided a spin on the judgment from a segment of the legal profession initially in shock, which argued that the court did not go as far. In reality, it did that and much more and the initial media reports were very accurate. Five things are notable about the decision of the court in this case. First, in a mere four pages, all seven Justices made short shrift of the case as filed, declining jurisdiction on the basis that “the plaintiffs failed to disclose any reasonable or justiciable dispute between them and the federation capable of invoking the original jurisdiction of the court.” At this stage, the job of the court was done. However, the Justices decided to “undertake a considered discussion on the scope and exercise of the powers” under the constitution concerning emergency proclamations. It is notable that the court framed what it undertook in the remaining two-thirds of its “summary” as a “discussion”, rather than an exercise in judicial decision making. Scholars and jurists will expend considerable froth in the years to come on the import of what may well become known as “Supreme discussion”. Second, the court embarked on its self-appointed discussion by locating the bases of emergency powers in an invented doctrine of “a temporary expansion of federal powers” which lacks any foundations in the text or structure of Nigeria’s constitution. Indeed, emergency powers under Nigeria’s federal system are not an expansion of federal powers. On the contrary, they are contingent powers, ripe to be exercised upon the fulfilment of twin requirements of substantive and procedural compliance with constitutional pre-conditions. Third, turning to the constitutional preconditions, the Supreme Court continued its disquisition by pronouncing the emergency proclamation in Rivers State as having fulfilled the substantive preconditions under the constitution. Fourth, the Court turned to the procedural arithmetic preceding the emergency proclamation. Nigeria’s constitution requires an emergency proclamation to be sustained by a joint resolution supported by two-thirds majority of each chamber of the National Assembly. The court ruled that this implies that the voting “process adopted renders the attainment of the two-thirds majority clearly ascertainable.” A lawyer and a teacher, Odinkalu can be reached at chidi.odinkalu@tufts.edu

T H I S D AY

XV 321

TUESDAY DECEMBER 23, 2025

The President is delivering on his promise, argues BAMIDELE ATOYEBI

TINUBU’S RESCUE PLAN Looking with hindsight at the rate of delivery on campaign promises, what rightfully agitated the mind would be, is President Bola Ahmed Tinubu a prophet? The question may sound rhetorical, even dramatic, but it is one that keeps imposing itself on public discourse as events continue to align with the projections he boldly made while presenting the 2025 budget in 2024 with empirical accuracy. At the time, many who dismissed his projections as mere political optimism now know better. He called the 2025 budget “An Ambitious But Necessary Budget To Secure Our Future” and projected that inflation which appeared untamable, and stood at about 34.6 per cent, would drop significantly to around 15 per cent. Today, inflation has reportedly declined further to about 14.5 per cent and still racing towards single digit. That was not coincidence; it was policy meeting purpose, the result of one who prepared for power and just linking the dots with pinpoint accuracy. He also spoke with confidence about the exchange rate. When the naira was hovering around ₦1,700 to the dollar, with many predicting it would hit the N2000 mark, President Tinubu projected a drop to about ₦1,500. As at today, the naira is trading around ₦1,452 to the dollar and with the reforms, there is no gain saying that the naira will further firm up. Again, what many saw as wishful thinking has become measurable progress with adroit policy implementation. This is why the President’s oft-quoted assurance, “go and be rest assured, go and be at peace” resonates differently today. Tinubu did not just say he would fix the battered economy; he is fixing it, step by step, policy by policy. Leadership is not about noise; it is about results. The results are beginning to speak loudly in different sectors where hopes had been lost. Even the NNPCL has stepped up under this administration. For the first time in over 36 years, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has broken long-standing barriers, recording historic highs in its upstream crude oil production and posting unprecedented financial returns with a never seen transparency. This turnaround has been driven by stronger accountability, improved operational efficiency, and a clear reform direction championed by the Tinubu government. President Tinubu has always spoken with the confidence of a man who understands both power and process. He once said he does not join certain caucuses because he knows them to be sneaky and untrustworthy, but that he would defeat them in every election. History records that he did exactly that, defeating Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rabiu Kwankwaso despite their combined efforts. "We will vote", "we

will win" was not just a slogan; it became a political reality that has become an immutable benchmark. Every major statement Tinubu has made in public either became a trending topic, a political reality, or an economic direction. His words shape conversations; his policies shape outcomes. That is why some Nigerians, half-joking but half-serious, now ask: Does Tinubu like Nostradamus, see the future? From the standpoint of the BAT Ideological Group, this is not prophecy; it is preparation. It is the product of experience, courage, clear vision and an ideological belief in reform-driven governance. Tinubu understands that tough decisions today are the price for stability tomorrow. This is why we say Tinubu is not a politician he's an institution, he doesn't just make a statement like others do without having plan and methodology on how he would achieve his aims and objectives. As we look ahead to 2026, optimism is no longer blind faith; it is grounded in evidence and reality of what have so far been achieved. The foundations are being laid, the numbers are tallying, and confidence is gradually building. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu deserves his accolades, not because he speaks boldly, but because the country is beginning to move in the direction he promised. History will decide the final verdict, but for now, one thing is clear: when leadership is guided by ideology and competence, vision can begin to look like foresight. When I was asked at one event I attended in Kwara what to expect from President Tinubu after 2027: I told them to expect anti-terrorists battalions, improved salaries and welfare for our security men, upgraded weapon systems, more loans for farmers, farmers cooperative, rural infrastructure development, access to finance, more Renewed Hope homes for low income earners, among others. When the reporter asked how I knew these; I told him Bamidele understands by Renewed Hope manifestos and political impartation same way "Daniel understood by books and time." Atoyebi is the Convener of BAT Ideological Group, publisher at Mining and Unfiltered reporting and National Coordinator for Accountability and Policy Monitoring

SHERIFF MAHMUD ISMAIL urges Africa to look ahead, to choose courage over caution, and integration over isolation

THE UNFINISHED DREAM OF A UNITED AFRICA On the humid Atlantic edge of Accra, where the Gulf of Guinea exhales history into the present, Africa once again gathered to wrestle with its oldest and most unsettling question: whether unity on this vast and varied continent is a destiny deferred or a promise within reach. The African Summit, held in Ghana under the resonant theme “Building a New United Africa,” arrived as a timely intervention in a world that is rapidly reorganising power, markets and influence—often without Africa at the table, and sometimes at its expense. That the summit convened in Ghana was no coincidence, it was symbolism with intent. This is the soil where Kwame Nkrumah, standing at independence in 1957, declared that Ghana’s freedom was meaningless unless it was bound to the total liberation and unity of Africa. Accra, more than any other African capital, is the continent’s political memory bank, a place where Pan-Africanism ceased to be an abstraction and became a programme. To return here in 2025, amid global fragmentation and African uncertainty, was to summon history as a rebuke. The keynote address by former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Bai Koroma framed the moment with disarming clarity and urgency. His central contention was stark: the world already knows how it prefers to deal with Africa, and it is not on Africa’s current terms. Global powers convene Japan–Africa, China–Africa, EU–Africa, and US–Africa summits not out of sentimental Pan-African conviction, but because it is administratively and strategically easier to engage a continent as one bloc than as more than 50 fragmented, and often competing, states. Africa, by contrast, continues to negotiate with itself in pieces, forfeiting leverage before discussions even begin. As President Koroma put, this paradox, being treated as one from the outside while remaining divided within, sat at the heart of the summit’s deliberations. "It exposes an uncomfortable truth: disunity is no longer merely an African weakness; it is a global liability" in an era defined by scale. "Markets are continental, technology ecosystems are transnational, and geopolitical influence increasingly belongs to those who can mobilise population size, resources and political coherence. On these terms, Africa’s fragmentation is not just inefficient, it is self-sabotaging, the statesman added.. Yet the argument for unity has never been uncontested, and the summit did not pretend otherwise. Skeptics point to Africa’s extraordinary diversity— thousands of ethnic groups, languages, religions and historical experiences— as evidence that political federation is unrealistic, if not dangerous. Others warn that stronger economies may resist surrendering sovereignty or subsidising weaker neighbours. Still others cite fragile institutions, recurrent conflict, democratic backsliding and uneven governance as

0 0

1000 mi 1000 km

proof that continental ambition exceeds present capacity. These are not frivolous objections; they are the hard edges of reality. But as President Koroma reminded his audience, these were precisely the doubts once levelled against Europe, a continent that had just emerged from centuries of internecine war when it chose integration over perpetual rivalry. Diversity did not prevent cooperation there; it demanded better systems to manage it. The lesson is not that Africa should copy Europe wholesale, but that fear of complexity is a poor substitute for political courage. The costs of non-unity are already visible in the most mundane details of African life. It remains, as the keynote observed, often cheaper and easier to fly from an African capital to Europe than to a neighbouring African country. Goods can move faster from Asia to West Africa than from one West African port to another. Railways and roads still mirror colonial extraction routes rather than continental integration. These are not mere inconveniences; they are structural barriers to growth, trade and solidarity. Transport, President Koroma argued, "is not simply infrastructure, it is the bloodstream of unity. Without it, integration remains theoretical.' Against this backdrop, the summit’s emphasis on moving “from dialogue to implementation” carried particular weight. The agenda ranged from the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to proposals for common institutions—a central bank, a parliament, a court of justice, and coordinated security architecture— long discussed, rarely realised. AfCFTA, headquartered in Accra, emerged as the most tangible proof that unity need not remain rhetorical. Operational since 2021, it represents the largest single market in the world by number of countries, and a deliberate shift from political aspiration to economic logic. Still, economics alone cannot sustain a continental project. What gave President Koroma’s intervention the compelling moral force was the way he braided Africa’s future to its past. He invoked the founding generation—Nkrumah, Nyerere, Sekou Touré, Haile Selassie—much more than marble icons, but as restless spirits whose work remains unfinished. Ismail writes from Accra, Ghana

XVI 22 4

T H I S D AY

TUESDAY DECEMBER 23, 2025

EDITORIAL

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

ABANDONED TO ROT AWAY...11

The federal government should put the buildings to better use

Continued from yesterday

oday, several edifices that were once national monuments have deteriorated into an eyesore to the embarrassment of a nation that is increasingly becoming incapable of maintaining its national assets. For instance, many of the national stadia have become a huge economic waste. The situation of Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, is worse. Built in 2003 at the cost of $360million (more than N100 billion today), the 60,491-capacity edifice is one of the most expensive projects in the world. Renovated recently for African Legends vs Barcelona match, it is still not deemed suitable for Nigerian league matches because of its present condition. Available records show that the six stadia got N300 million in the 2012 budget for maintenance, increasing slightly to N400 million in 2016. With this meagre fund, it is evident that the facilities could only be what they are. We urge the federal government to take quick steps on many of these entities that are wasting away either by giving them out to private investors in line with its concession policy or handing them over to states that are interested in running them. Experts in the real estate sector are at a loss as to how a nation could wantonly subject such iconic properties to abuse. Indeed, former President of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV), Emeka Eleh noted that vacant houses run down faster than occupied houses and advise the government to lease the houses to individuals who can afford them, while others suggest that the federal government and the states should find a way of putting these buildings to better use. Even more disturbing is the spate of building collapse. There is no doubt that many buildings collapsed because of their decrepit state.

According to the latest report from the Building Collapse Prevention Guild, the country witnessed about 604 building collapses between 1974 and May 2024. The report indicated that Lagos State recorded 57.28 per cent of the total collapses with over 346 buildings caving in the last 50 years. Even though findings by the guild attributed many of the incidents largely to professional ineptitude ranging from excessive loading, use of substandard materials, faulty design, poor workmanship and weak foundation, there is no doubt that years of neglect and abandonment contributed to the tragedies. We have seen governments come and go with none of them making it a priority to recover the real values of national assets that are depreciating by the day. Every government compounds the problem by adding more to the list of abandoned projects. Yet, we are bothered by this proclivity to the waste of scarce resources, especially at a time the population is growing at an alarming rate, and the economy is slowing down. We feel that all abandoned national assets should either be turned around for economic benefits to the country, or at best be handed over to entities that can make the most of them so they can create jobs for the people. At a period when we need to think out of the box to address the myriads of socio-economic challenges, there should be no room for waste. Aside from the economic implications, there is also the issue of security risks posed by criminals who use these neglected buildings as havens for nefarious activities. Yet transforming many of these historic landmarks into creative use will help to get the needed money into cash-starved government coffers. Besides, as the House of Representatives has noted in their passed resolution, it makes no sense to abandon buildings erected at enormous costs and begin to pay scandalous amounts on rent for government agencies.

Transforming many of these historic landmarks into creative use will help to get the needed money into cash-starved government coffers T H I S D AY

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

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

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA 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

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

LETTERS ALGON TO STRENGTHEN AGRICULTURE, PRIMARY HEALTH CARE

As the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) was holding its quarterly National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Abuja, news came in that President Bola Tinubu has warned state governors that he may be forced to issue an Executive Order to enforce direct allocations to local governments if they fail to comply with a recent Supreme Court ruling affirming financial autonomy for Nigeria’s third tier of government. Tinubu gave the warning on Friday during the 15th National Executive Committee meeting of the All Progressives Congress at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja, where he warned that non-compliance may force him to directly allocate local council funds from the Federation Account Allocation Committee. The warning is apt since non-compliance impedes grassroots development. Nigeria is a federation and each tier of government has a role to play; local governments therefore

have a central role to play, which is why ALGON is looking at ways to key in and support the present administration especially in driving Nigeria’s agricultural revolution. ALGON has made giant strides in 2025 in areas like primary health care which constitutionally is under the mandate of local governments. So we engage the state governments, federal ministry of health and particularly the ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) to see that LGs continue to play their key roles as enshrined in the constitution. In preparation for the commencement of year 2026, there are lots of programmes that affect the 774 local governments, and in turn the livelihoods of people at the grassroots. For the first time ALGON President is a member of the Ministerial Oversight Committee (MOC) that charts the course for primary health care delivery in Nigeria, and to ensure that the narrative is changed for the better. And so, it is the duty of ALGON to key in and support the

present administration in driving the agricultural revolution; this we do by looking at how we source our agricultural inputs and outputs. We are looking at how to support the Nigerian farmers at the local levels and how we can increase the production level through mechanised farming and affordable farming inputs. This will surely drive down food production costs and help our farmers get value for their produce. The ALGON quarterly National Executive Council (NEC) meeting is where we peer review and chart a course for policy direction and the role LGs will play for good governance in preparation for the commencement of year 2026. There are lot of programmes that affect the 774 local governments and in turn the livelihoods of people at the grassroots. Engr. Bello Lawal, President, Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON)

t h i S d ay • TUESDAY, DECEmbER 23, 2025

BUSINESSWORLD R A T E S MONEY MARKET

A S

A T

REPO

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

08056356325

D E C E m b E R

S & P INDEX

2 2 ,

S & P INDEX

2 0 2 5 EXCHANGE RATE

OPR

25.34%

CALL

23.25%

INDEX LEVEL

595.26

1/4 TO DATE

0.24%

N1,441.36/ 1 US DOLLAR*

OVERNIGHT

25.18%

1-MONTH

21.37%

1-DAY

0.10%

YEAR TO DATE

-10.99%

*AS AT mONDAY., DEC. 22, 2025

3-MONTH

22.41%

MONTH-TO-DATE

0.24%

NNPC Earns N890.8bn in Management Fees, Frontier Funds i n 1 1 M o n t h s

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) raked in a combined N890.8 billion from management fees and Frontier Exploration Fund (FEF) in the 11 months to November 2025, according to official figures submitted to the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC). The accruals drawn from Production Sharing Contract (PSC) operations, underscored the continued centrality of upstream oil and gas activity to Nigeria’s public finances, even amid

fiscal pressures and volatile crude market conditions. Under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), the NNPC is entitled to specific deductions from production sharing contract profits. The management fee is intended to cover the company’s costs and responsibilities as the concessionaire and manager of PSC operations on behalf of the federation. Besides, it compensates the national oil company for technical, commercial and administrative oversight, including contract administration, monitoring of contractors, and coordination of upstream activities under

PSC arrangements. On the other hand, FEF is dedicated exclusively to financing geological and geophysical surveys, appraisal and exploration activities in Nigeria’s frontier basins, which are areas considered underexplored and higher risk. These include inland basins such as the Chad, Sokoto, Bida, Anambra and Benue troughs, among others. Documents from the December 15 FAAC meeting seen by THISDAY showed that the company’s management fee, fixed at 30 per cent of PSC profits, amounted to N445.4 billion between January and November.

In the same vein, an identical N445.4 billion accrued to the FEF, which is also funded with 30 per cent of PSC profits and earmarked for exploration activities in frontier basins across the country. Combined, the two revenue lines accounted for 60 per cent of total PSC profit distribution over the period. Further analysis indicated that overall PSC profit total distribution for the 11 months stood at about N1.48 trillion, reflecting cumulative monthly inflows for the months under consideration. However, while the figure remained substantial, it fell short of the year-to-date

budget benchmark, resulting in a negative variance of roughly N686.3 billion, highlighting the persistent gap between projected and realised oil revenues. A closer look at the monthly trend showed that PSC profit inflows fluctuated significantly during the year. In January, PSC profit stood at about N105.9 billion, rising to N127.7 billion in February and increasing significantly to N204.9 billion in March. April recorded N121.9 billion, while May came in at N129.3 billion. But the mid-year months were comparatively weaker, with June at N22.8 billion and

July at N84.5 billion. August improved to N263.1 billion, one of the strongest months in the period, it was N275.4 billion in September, but fell sharply to N36.8 billion in October. November closed at about N112.3 billion. Since the management fee and frontier exploration fund are directly tied to PSC profit performance, their monthly accruals followed a similar pattern. In January, each component contributed N31.8 billion. February delivered N38.3 billion apiece, while March rose to N61.5 billion.

Unlocking New Frontiers in Renewable Energy.’ He said colloquium was put together to identify priority areas for action to increase energy access and drive economic growth in the quest to attain a one trillion-dollar economy. Represented by Group Executive, Corporate & Investment Banking, Dele Faseemo, he explained that Sterling Bank will be

paying closer attention to policy actions in two or three key priority areas, especially regulation and financing. He noted that by focusing on these areas, the Bank can do more to drive progress and expand access to energy, which he described as essential for supporting economic growth and overall development. In a keynote address titled, “Scaling Electrification in

Nigeria, The REA Impact,” Managing Director and CEO of The Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Dr. Abba Aliyu, spoke on the vision, mission and mandate of the agency. He noted that Nigeria requires about $26 billion to address its energy deficit. He said the energy transition in Nigeria is a strategic shift towards achieving universal, reliable

and sustainable energy access by integrating the grid, mini-grid and off grid technologies while aligning with national development and climate goals. The CEO who was represented by his Senior Advisor, Mr. Abba Hayatudden, said: “REA is strategically expanding and optimizing channels to accelerate the adoption and sustainable growth of

renewable energy across the country in the areas of value chain development, regulation enhancement, funding windows, alternative resources and technical standardization.” On his side,the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, commended Sterling Bank for convening the conversation on renewable energy.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

Sterling Bank Urges Stakeholders to Unlock Nigeria’s Clean Energy Potential Oluchi Chibuzor

Sterling Bank Limited has called on stakeholders in the renewable energy industry to explore ways to accelerate action in the sector. Managing Director and CEO of Sterling Bank Limited, Mr. Abubakar Suleiman, gave the charge in his address at the bank’s premier colloquium with the theme: ‘Beyond The Grid;

food name of commodity

rice

Size

State

Price

50kg

aBuJa

n65,000 n68,000

50kg

LagoS

₦55,000 – ₦70,000

50kg

kWara

50kg

enugu

50kg riverS

₦52,000 – ₦54,000 ₦65,000 ₦70,000 ₦60,000 n65,000

commoditieS name of commodity

Sorghum

Price

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

t o d ay

State

Price

name of commodity

Size

State

Price

100kg JigaWa

n30,000

BeanS

Benue

n32,000

Brown Beans

100kg

50kg Bag

₦90,000 – ₦95,000

LagoS

100kg

kaduna

n32,000

n95,000

50kg

enugu

n24,000

kano

50kg

LagoS

n26,000

100kg

deLta

n35,000

₦70,000 – ₦75,000 ₦72,000 – ₦75,000

100kg

aBia

n36,000

Size

50kg 50kg 50kg 50kg

oLoyin (honey)

White BeanS

Borno White BeanS

deLta

White BeanS

n72,000 – ₦75,000

TUESDay, DECEmBER 23, 2025 • T H I S D AY

BUSINESSWORLD

NEWS FooD

nAme oF CommoDITY

PALm oIL

SIze

STATe

25CL LAgoS 25CL

25CL

oYo

25CL

Imo

25CL

eDo

25CL

AbUjA

CommoDITIeS

PrICe

nAme oF CommoDITY

SIze

STATe

₦20,000 – ₦42,500

groUnDnUT

₦24,000 – ₦35,000 ₦22,000 – ₦35,000 n32,000-n56,000

₦20,000 – ₦35,000 ₦25,500 – ₦35,000

PrICe

T o D AY

PrICe

nAme oF CommoDITY

SIze

STATe

100kg kAno

40,500

onIonS

100kg

IbADAn n60,000

100kg benUe

47,000

100kg LAgoS

45,000

100kg DeLTA

44,000

100kg

AbIA

100kg kADUnA

PrICe

nAme oF CommoDITY

SIze

LoCATIon

PrICe

mAIze

50kg

oYo

n30,000

50kg

enUgU

n30,000

100kg DeLTA

n30,000

50kg

AbIA

n32,000

n30,000

100kg kAno

n250,000₦270,000 n250,000100kg PLATeAU ₦270,000 100kg benUe

100kg DeLTA

50kg

LAgoS

n30,000

27,000

n250,000

100kg LAgoS

n250,000

50kg

kAno

n32,000

40,000

100kg enUgU

n250,000₦270,000

100kg benUe

n30,000

Capital Market Operators to Renew Registration from January 2026

Kayode Tokede

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), has announced that capital market operators are to renew their registration from January 1 to 31, 2026. In a bid to make the process as seamless as possible, the commission said it will commence electronic receipt and processing of applications for registration and updates of registration information in the first quarter of 2026. Director General of the SEC, Dr. Emomotimi Agama stated this during an interview in Abuja.

According to Agama, “These initiatives reflect our commitment to leveraging technology for faster, more transparent, and efficient regulatory processes. The Commission is taking deliberate steps to make regulatory processes faster, more transparent, and technology-driven. We are investing in automation, databased supervision, and secure infrastructure to improve how we interact with the market.” He stated that through its Digital Transformation Portal, the commission has automated registration and licensing

end-to-end as operators can now submit applications, upload documents, and track approvals online, cutting down manual processing time and reducing the need for physical visits. He said, the commission has

also rolled out the Commercial Papers issuance module, which allows operators to file documents, monitor progress, and receive approvals electronically while feedback from early users shows a clear improvement in turnaround

time. “Work is ongoing to automate quarterly and annual returns submissions, with structured templates and system checks to ensure accuracy. A returns analytics dashboard is also

in development to support risk based supervision and exception reporting. “To back these changes, we have started upgrading our IT infrastructure, servers, storage, networks, and security layers, to boost speed and reliability.

TCN Clears Illegal Structures on Ugwuaji–Makurdi Transmission Line Stories by Emmanuel Addeh in abuja

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has removed illegal structures encroaching on its transmission line Right of Way (RoW) in some areas of Enugu State, as part of ongoing efforts to protect critical power infrastructure

and ensure public safety. The demolition affected fences and other structures erected dangerously close to Tower 31 of the Ugwuaji– Makurdi 330kV Double Circuit Line at Akpuoga Nike in Enugu East Local Government Area, and others along the corridor of a 132kV transmission line,

posing serious safety risks and obstructing maintenance access. Prior to the commencement of the demolition exercise, TCN said it had consistently carried out sensitisation campaigns warning residents and traders against building or conducting activities within transmission corridors.

“The action was unavoidable, necessitated by the need to prevent accidents, safeguard lives and property, and ensure unhindered access for linesmen during routine inspections and emergency repairs,” a statement by the General Manager, Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, said.

The federal government has said that Nigeria will move beyond box-ticking compliance with global transparency rules and begin to use the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) as a practical reform tool capable of plugging revenue leakages, strengthening institutions and delivering measurable benefits to citizens.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), who doubles as Chairman of the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) National Stakeholders Working Group (NSWG), George Akume, said this at a two-day ‘Advocacy Dialogue for Stakeholders on Nigeria’s 2026 EITI Validation’, organised by the Initiative in

Abuja. Akume, who was represented by the President, Miners Association of Nigeria (MAN), Dele Ayanleke, a member of the board, described the dialogue as coming at a ‘critical moment’ for Nigeria, which is currently grappling with economic reforms, fiscal pressures and rising public

demand for accountability in the management of natural resources. The meeting brought together government officials, civil society organisations, development partners, the media and sub-national actors to review Nigeria’s readiness for the next round of global EITI validation under the 2023 Standard.

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has announced that normal traffic flow has been restored to the AbujaLokoja highway, following a disruption occasioned by a standoff between truck drivers and military personnel over the weekend. The incident, which reportedly involved the smashing of a truck’s windscreen, led to a blockade of a portion of the road by

truck drivers, resulting in severe traffic gridlock along the alignment. A statement by the Director of Press and Public Relations in the ministry, Mohammed Ahmed, said this caused significant delays and hardship to road users travelling towards Lokoja and other destinations during this festive season. “In response, the minister directed the immediate

opening of already completed sections of the expressway and approved the deployment of all necessary measures to restore free movement and ease the hardship being experienced by the road users,” the statement added. The directive, which the ministry said was promptly implemented on Sunday, December 21, 2025, it stressed, has helped

to decongest the affected corridor and improve traffic flow. According to the release, the Federal Controller of Works, Kogi State, Patiko Isah, disclosed that: “The Field Headquarters, in collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and other security agencies, restored the free flow of traffic at about 2:00 a.m., today.”

Residents of the Durumi Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Camp in Abuja have received humanitarian assistance from Green Circuit Association International following an outreach organized to support displaced families. The outreach, which took place yesterday, provided food items, medical services, and educational materials to

hundreds of camp residents, including children, nursing mothers, and the elderly. Speaking during the event, the International President of Green Circuit Association International, Comr. O. N. Iguodala, said the outreach was part of the organization’s commitment to supporting vulnerable and displaced communities. He noted that many

Oil Prices Gain on US Interception FG: Nigeria to Deploy EITI as Reform Tool, Surpass Compliance Checklist of Crude Tanker Oil prices climbed in early and the third in less than trade yesterday after the US intercepted an oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela in international waters. Brent crude futures rose 44 cents, or 0.73 per cent, to $60.91 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude rose 40 cents, or 0.71 per cent, to $56.92. The US Coast Guard is also pursuing an oil tanker in international waters near Venezuela, in what would be the second such operation over the weekend

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

two weeks if successful, officials told Reuters. The rebound in oil prices has been sparked by geopolitical developments starting with US President Donald Trump’s announcement of a “total and complete” blockade on sanctioned Venezuelan oil tankers and subsequent developments there, followed by reports of a Ukrainian drone strike on a Russian shadow fleet vessel in the Mediterranean Sea, IG analyst Tony Sycamore said. “The market is losing hope that the US-brokered RussiaUkraine peace talks will reach a lasting agreement any time soon,” said Sycamore. Brent and WTI were down about 1 per cent last week after both crude benchmarks fell about 4 per cent in the week of December 8. US special envoy, Steve Witkoff, said on Sunday talks between US, European and Ukrainian officials over the past three days in Florida aimed at ending Russia’s war in Ukraine had focused on aligning positions. Those meetings and separate talks with Russian negotiators had been productive,” he said.

FG: Normal Traffic Flow Restored to Abuja–Lokoja Road

Charity Organisation Provides Food, Medical Aid at IDP Camp families in the camp have lost their homes and means of livelihood due to conflict and displacement, adding that the intervention was aimed at easing their hardship and reassuring them that they are not forgotten. Some beneficiaries described the support as timely. The women leader at the camp, Aisha Malami,

said food had been scarce in recent weeks and expressed gratitude to the organization for the assistance. The camp administrator commended the charity group for the gesture and appealed to government agencies and other humanitarian organizations to continue supporting the camp to meet the growing needs of its residents.

T H I S D AY • Tuesday, deCember 23, 2025

busINessWOrLd

FeaTure

How Wema Bank Closed the Year by Redefining Trust, Innovation As 2025 draws to a close, Wema Bank’s 80-year journey stands as reassurance for prospects, partners, and stakeholders alike. It signals an institution that understands where it has come from, why it exists, and where it is going, writes Kayode Tokede

s the year draws to a close, certain milestones ask more of institutions than applause. They demand pause. They require honesty. They invite a reckoning with the past and a cleareyed commitment to the future. For Wema Bank, turning 80 in 2025 has not simply been about marking longevity. It has been about reaffirming relevance in a fast-moving world, responsibility in a fragile economy, and purpose in an industry where trust remains the ultimate currency. As the Year of 80 comes to an end, what stands out is not only how far the Bank has come, but how deliberately it has chosen to move forward. Eight decades in banking is not an accident of time. It is a product of discipline, judgement, and the ability to evolve without losing one’s core. Many institutions are born strong but fade when the environment changes. Others survive but stagnate, weighed down by outdated models and shrinking relevance. Wema Bank belongs to a rarer category. It is an institution that has endured by learning, adapting, and consistently aligning its growth with the realities of the moment. In doing so, it has remained present across generations of customers, businesses, and communities, earning trust not through rhetoric, but through action. Founded in 1945 as Agbonmagbe Bank Limited, Wema Bank emerged at a defining moment in Nigeria’s economic history, when indigenous participation in formal banking was limited and access to finance was far from inclusive. The Bank’s founding purpose was both practical and visionary: to enable Nigerians to participate meaningfully in the economy, to provide access where barriers existed, and to support enterprise at a time when opportunity was unevenly distributed. That founding ethos would prove resilient, tested repeatedly by national and global shifts over the decades that followed. From the era of mushroom banking in the 1950s, through civil unrest,

currency reforms, and structural adjustments, Wema Bank learned early that survival required more than ambition. It required prudence. It required governance. It required a willingness to make difficult choices in the interest of long-term stability. The consolidation period of the mid-2000s would become another defining chapter, reshaping Nigeria’s banking landscape and forcing institutions to confront new capital realities. Wema Bank emerged from that period leaner, focused, and resolute, ultimately regaining its national banking licence in 2015. That moment was not just regulatory; it was symbolic. It marked a return to national relevance, renewed ambition, and a readiness to engage a broader market with clarity of purpose.

“Eight decades in banking is not an accident of time. It is a product of discipline, judgement, and the ability to evolve without losing one’s core. Many institutions are born strong but fade when the environment changes. Others survive but stagnate, weighed down by outdated models and shrinking relevance. Wema Bank belongs to a rarer category. It is an institution that has endured by learning, adapting, and consistently aligning its growth with the realities of the moment. In doing so, it has remained present across generations of customers, businesses, and communities, earning trust not through rhetoric, but through action.”

What followed was not a retreat into tradition, but a decisive embrace of the future. As banking began its global shift toward digital-first models, Wema Bank once again chose evolution over inertia. The launch of ALAT in 2017 did more than introduce Africa’s first fully digital bank; it reframed expectations. It demonstrated that heritage institutions could lead innovation, not trail it. By simplifying access, reducing friction, and prioritising user experience, ALAT became a signal of intent: that Wema Bank understood the modern customer and was willing to build for them. That spirit of innovation did not stop at convenience. It extended into inclusion, literacy, and ecosystembuilding. ALAT Xplore reflected an understanding that financial empowerment must start early, equipping young Nigerians with tools to build healthy money habits in a digital age. CoopHub addressed the structural challenges within cooperative societies, introducing transparency and efficiency where manual processes once limited growth. These were not abstract ideas. They were practical solutions designed around real needs, reinforcing the Bank’s reputation for innovation with purpose. As the Year of 80 unfolded, it also became clear that Wema Bank’s commitment to empowerment remained central to its strategy. Through Sara by Wema, the Bank continued to support women across economic levels, providing access

to finance, markets, capacity-building, and wellness initiatives at a time when resilience mattered more than ever. These interventions were not framed as charity, but as investment in economic participation, recognising that women-led businesses are essential to sustainable growth. Youth empowerment followed the same logic. Programmes such as Hackaholics, the FGN-ALAT Digital Skillnovation Programme, and the NYSC-ALAT Accelerator underscored the Bank’s belief that the future of Nigeria’s economy depends on skills, innovation, and opportunity. As the year closed, these initiatives stood as evidence of long-term thinking: preparing young people not just to participate in the economy, but to shape it. For small and medium-sized enterprises, the Bank’s 80th year reinforced a promise that has endured across decades. From financing to advisory support, from digital tools to market access, Wema Bank has continued to position itself as a growth partner rather than a transactional lender. Platforms like ALAT for Business and ALATPay, combined with training and advisory programmes, reflect a holistic approach to enterprise development. The scale of investment, measured in hundreds of billions of naira in loans, grants, and capacity-building, speaks to consistency rather than coincidence. As the year ended, performance reinforced narrative. Strong growth in profitability, assets, deposits, and shareholder value validated the Bank’s strategy. Improved credit ratings, successful capital raises, and recognition as one of Nigeria’s best workplaces further strengthened confidence in its governance, culture, and leadership. These are not isolated indicators. They are the result of deliberate alignment between ambition and execution. What ultimately gives meaning to Wema Bank’s 80th anniversary is coherence. The story holds together. Innovation is not detached from responsibility. Growth is not separated from inclusion. Heritage does not inhibit progress. Instead, the Bank has demonstrated that longevity, when paired with clarity and adaptability, can be a strategic advantage rather than a constraint. As 2025 draws to a close, Wema Bank’s 80-year journey stands as reassurance for prospects, partners, and stakeholders alike. It signals an institution that understands where it has come from, why it exists, and where it is going. It affirms that trust can be built patiently, innovation pursued thoughtfully, and growth achieved sustainably. Wema at 80 is not a conclusion. It is a handover between eras. A bridge between legacy and possibility. And as the year ends, the message is clear: the future is being shaped by an institution grounded enough to endure, and bold enough to evolve.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2025 • THISDAY

NEWS

2025 GREAT CAROL SERVICE BY CANDLE LIGHT IN OTA...

L-R: Director, Publicity and Information Management, Rhema Christian Church and Towers, Pastor Adeola Salako; Presiding Archbishop, Dr. Taiwo Akinola; Deputy Pastor-General, Bishop Mrs. Ireti Akinola and the Cathedral Provost/Director of Prayer, Praise and Deliverance, Pastor ‘Tofunmi Opaleye, at the 2025 Great Carol Service by Candle Light in Ota, Ogun State on Sunday

FG: We’ve Rescued All Abducted Pa-piri Schoolchildren, Teachers Laleye Dipo in Minna The federal government has restated that it has rescued all the abducted St Mary’s Catholic Primary Secondary School pupils/students and their teachers, who were abducted over a month ago. National Coordinator, Counter Terrorism Centre, Major-General Adamu Laka (rtd), made this known yesterday, while handing over the freshly rescued 130 children and teachers to Governor Mohammed Bago at Government House, Minna. “All the children have been successfully rescued, none remain in captivity,” Laka declared. He said all the children were rescued unhurt.

The federal government had earlier rescued 100 students. Laka said the rescue operation was carried out by the office of the National

Security Adviser, in collaboration with operatives of Department of State Services (DSS), the police, and other security operatives. He appreciated the pa-

Senator representing Plateau Central, Diket Plang, has described the defection of Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as “an excellent move” that would strengthen political alignment and accelerate development for the state. Speaking during an interactive session with journalists, Plang said having the governor, the national chairman, the president, and key federal lawmakers in the same party would make lobbying for federal projects easier and more productive. According to him, “When

appreciated President Bola Tinubu and the security operatives for their unwavering commitment that led to the rescue of the schoolchildren.

Bago also lauded Nigerians for their solidarity and prayers during the trying times and promised to celebrate Christmas with the rescued children.

Olawepo-Hashim Meets Obasanjo, Babangida Ahead of 2027, Pledges Security Chuks Okocha in Abuja

In furtherance of his presidential aspiration, presidential hopeful in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has intensified consultations ahead of the 2027 elections, holding separate meetings with former President Olusegun Obasanjo

and former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd.). The closed-door meetings, held yesterday, were part of Hashim’s ongoing nationwide engagements with elder statesmen and key national figures to discuss the future direction of Nigeria. Sources familiar with the

Senator Plang Backs Mutfwang’s Defection to APC, Predicts Tinubu’s Return in 2027

Yemi Kosoko in Jos

tience of Nigerians, adding that government has taken steps to ensure the safety of schoolchildren and all Nigerians. In his remarks, Bago

you have a governor and you are in the ruling party, and you also have a president, lobbying becomes easier and cheaper for members of the legislative arm. If the coming of the governor will be an added advantage for us to pursue more for Plateau, then it is an excellent move.” Responding to concerns from APC factions rejecting the governor’s entry into the party, Plang said political disagreements were normal but must give way to unity once decisions were made and agreed at the national level. “Some people said no because of interest, some said yes because of interest, but at

the end of the day, the final outcome is Plateau interest. We must accept ourselves, shake hands and work together,” he said, calling for forgiveness and maturity among party stakeholders. Addressing questions on hardship and public dissatisfaction on some of government policies, the senator insisted that President Bola Tinubu’s inclusive leadership style and economic reforms would earn him a second term. He argued that the president’s appointments were reflection of ethnic and religious balance, describing him as “a holistic and inclusive leader.”

consultations said Hashim assured both former leaders of his capacity to tackle Nigeria’s security challenges, rebuild national unity, stabilise the polity, and restore economic prosperity. He stressed that Nigeria urgently needed purposeful, inclusive, and unifying leadership to avert deeper national fractures. Both Obasanjo and Babangida are widely regarded as influential elder statesmen, who remain invested in Nigeria’s unity and stability, having played defining roles

in the country’s political and military history. Hashim arrived at Obasanjo’s residence in Abeokuta at about 11:00 a.m. and departed roughly an hour later. He subsequently travelled to Minna, aboard a Hawker 800 jet with registration number 5N-BZP, where he met with Babangida. During the Minna meeting, Hashim was said to have appealed to Babangida’s historic role in preserving Nigeria’s unity, referencing the sacrifices made during the civil war. “General, you still carry in

your body the wounds of the war fought to keep Nigeria one. Many of your colleagues were not fortunate to survive that struggle. “If Nigeria is allowed to disintegrate today through incompetent leadership, then the sacrifices of patriots like you would have been wasted,” Hashim was quoted as saying. He emphasised that the 2027 election must be centred on national rescue, warning that continued leadership failure could further endanger the country’s cohesion and stability.

CSO Demands Redeployment of Edo CP, Agbonika over Extortion Allegations Felix Omoh-Asun in Benin

A civil society group, Bail Is Free Campaign, based in Benin, Edo State capital has called for the redeployment of the state Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika. In a peaceful protest in Benin yesterday, the group dragged the Commissioner for failure to curb extortion by officers under his command. The protesters armed with placards of various inscriptions

alleged that the extortions were becoming excessive and having a toll on Edo people. They accused policemen in the state of carrying out illegal arrest and detention, noting they were becoming chronic. The protesters therefore demanded that Agbonika be transferred from Edo for incompetence. Some of the placard read: “Stop the unlawful detention, we demand accountability

and transparency, stop police extortions,” “Human rights is not negotiable,” Bail is free, stop the merchandise,” “Edo CP must go,” among others. Addressing journalists, the Director General of the group, Comrade Oni Edigin alleged that the Commissioner of Police lacks the ability to direct the affairs of the command, especially when it comes to the alleged extortions of the citizens of the state, calling for his immediate redeployed.

THISDAY • TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2025

NEWS

LAUNCH OF LASHMA-AID...

L-R: Permanent Secretary, Lagos Health District II, Dr. Dayo Lajide; Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA), Dr. Emmanuella Zamba; Chairman LASHMA Board, Dr. Adebayo Adedewe; Chairman House Committee on Health, LSHA, Hon. Musibau Aina Lawal; Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. (Mrs.) Kemi Ogunyemi; Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Public Service Office, Mrs. Sunkanmi Oyegbola and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Parastatal Monitoring Office, Hon. Ibrahim Obanikoro, at the Launch of LASHMA-AID held in Ikeja, Lagos ... recently

APC Sets March 2026 for National Convention, Releases Timetable for Nationwide Congresses The All Progressives Congress APC has formally unveiled a comprehensive timetable for its 2025 and 2026 nationwide congresses, setting in motion an extensive internal democratic process that would culminate in the party’s national convention

scheduled for March 2026. The detailed schedule of activities was released on Saturday by the APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, through his verified X account. The timetable outlines a structured roadmap for

the conduct of ward, local government, state and zonal congresses across the country, in line with the provisions of the party’s constitution. According to the document, the congresses are pursuant to Articles 11 and 17 of the APC

Sanwo-Olu Swears in Obasa’s Son as Agege LG Chairman Toyin Anjous-Ademuyiwa takes oath of office as Perm Sec

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has sworn in Hon. Abdul-Ganiyu Obasa, the son of Speaker of Lagos House of Assembly, Hon. Mudasiru Obasa, as Chairman of Agege Local Government Area. Obasa had been acting in the role for some time due to the resignation of the former chairman, Tunde Azeez, on health grounds. He was sworn in yesterday, taking over the mantle of leadership and the responsibility to steer the affairs of Agege Local

Government Area. Sanwo-Olu also swore in Mrs Toyin AnjousAdemuyiwa as Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Office of Transformation, Creativity and Innovation (OTCI). Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony at Lagos House, Ikeja, SanwoOlu said governance in the state was anchored on appointment of capable and trustworthy individuals who approached public office as a call to service rather than a platform for privilege. The governor stressed

that leadership in Lagos State — whether political or technocratic — would continue to be guided by the will of the people and the imperative of results-driven governance. He said, “To both of you being sworn in today, let me emphasise this: leadership in Lagos State is defined by service, discipline, and results. The offices you now occupy are not rewards; they are responsibilities. The people of Lagos expect diligence, integrity, and impact—and they deserve nothing less.

Dangote Refinery Releases Hotline for Reporting MRS Filling Stations Selling Petrol above N739 Nationwide

Peter Uzoho

Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced the launch of a dedicated hotline for Nigerians to report any MRS Oil Nigeria Plc filling station selling Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) popularly known aa petrol above the approved pump price of N739 per litre.

This initiative underscores the refinery’s commitment to ensuring transparency, affordability, and consumer protection in the downstream petroleum market. In a statement issued last night, the refinery said the hotline number: 0800 123 5264, is now active nationwide, enabling consumers to promptly

report violations and help maintain fair pricing across over 2,000 MRS stations. This measure follows the refinery’s recent commencement of nationwide PMS sales at N739 per litre—a strategic intervention aimed at stabilising fuel prices and easing the financial burden on Nigerians during the festive season.

Constitution, which provides the legal framework for the election of party officials at all levels. The exercise is aimed at renewing party leadership structures nationwide and strengthening internal democracy ahead of future electoral contests. The schedule indicates that the entire process would commence with the launch of a nationwide membership eregistration exercise. This phase began on Monday, December 1, 2025, and would run until January 30, 2026. The party leadership said the exercise was designed to update and expand the APC

membership database, ensuring transparency and inclusiveness in the congresses. Following the conclusion of the membership registration exercise, the party would issue formal notices of congresses to all state chapters and the Federal Capital Territory. According to the timetable, these notices would be issued on February 2, 2026, thus activating the congress process at the grassroots level. The schedule further revealed that the purchase and submission of nomination forms for ward and local government area LGA congresses would take place between February 4 and February 9, 2026.

Aspirants seeking to contest various party positions at the ward and LGA levels are expected to obtain and submit their forms within this period, in compliance with the party’s guidelines. Screening committees for ward and LGA positions would be inaugurated on February 10, 2026. The screening of aspirants is scheduled to hold from February 11 to February 13, during which candidates’ credentials and eligibility would be thoroughly examined. This stage is intended to ensure that only qualified and constitutionally compliant members participate in the congresses.

TINUBU SATISFIED WITH FUBARA’S RESPONSIBLE LEADERSHIP IN RIVERS, DECLARES NUHU RIBADU five flyovers, one of which was being constructed by the Rivers State government to support the effort of the president. The minister said the over N200 billion project was scheduled for completion in April next year. He also revealed that, with presidential approval, designs were ongoing to dualise the Bonny–Bodo Road, from its starting point to the East–West Road, including the construction of two flyovers. Umahi added that the president had ordered a redesign of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway to pass through Ogoniland. The environment minister, Lawal, said the Ogoni clean-up project was a priority for the ministry. He explained that projects recommended by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) were progressing well, including mangrove restoration, healthcare delivery, human capital development, and women empowerment initiatives. Ojulari said the national oil company was fully committed to the Ogoni dialogue process,

stressing that going forward, the focus would be on the people, rather than oil. Ojulari disclosed that the employment of 30 Ogoni indigenes by NNPCL had reached the final stage, with appointment letters already issued and resumption scheduled for January 2026. He described the developments in Ogoni as a model for a new Nigeria. Responding, Fubara reaffirmed his administration’s support for Tinubu’s vision for the Niger Delta, declaring that the long-standing Ogoni crisis is finally giving way to visible progress in infrastructure, employment and environmental remediation. Fubara credited Tinubu with the courage to confront issues that had remained unresolved for over three decades. He said acknowledging the president’s effort was a duty for all who desired the progress of Rivers State. The governor stated, “Thanking Mr. President is the first thing that everyone who truly loves this state should do. For over 30 years, one particular issue has always been a

recurrent problem. I want to thank him for having the boldness, the determination and the toughness to say, ‘let us start from somewhere.’” He stated that the renewed engagement with the Ogoni people was already yielding tangible benefits, particularly in employment, as more Ogoni indi-genes were now being absorbed into the NNPC under a more secure and trusting framework. Fubara stated, “Today, we have more men and women of Ogoni extraction already employed in NNPC. Somehow, maybe we didn’t manage our situation very well and it slipped off, but I’m happy that, today, that assurance, support and encouragement is actually coming back.” He explained that the new owners of Shell assets had approached him to intervene, not for fresh operations, but to prevent further environmental degradation. Assuring the NSA of Rivers State’s commitment to peace and development, Fubara urged patience, as the state adjusted to long-delayed progress.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2025 • T H I S D AY

tuesday DECEMBER 23, 2025 • T H i s d ay

NEWS

Wike Not National Leader of Our Party, Bauchi PDP Declares Chuks Okochain Abuja Segun Awofadeji inBauchi

Bauchi State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party

(PDP), has reaffirmed that it would not succumb to propaganda or intimidation by unauthorised body, saying no amount of distortion could replace

constitutional authority. They also described as misleading, inflammatory and illegal, the insinuation by a group purportedly parading themselves as

Alleged Forgery Stalls Reading of Olanipekun Adesina’s Will

Sunday Ehigiator

A prolonged family dispute over the estate of the late Prince Emmanuel Olanipekun Adesina, a former Senior Manager at United Bank for Africa (UBA), has stalled the reading of his will at the Lagos State High Court, amid allegations of forgery, fraud and bitter intra-family rivalry.

At the centre of the controversy is Kolawole Adesina, son of the deceased, who has petitioned the court to allow the probate registry unveil his father’s will, which he says was lawfully deposited at UBA for safekeeping before his death in 2006. The effort, however, has been repeatedly delayed following

objections by other interested parties, citing allegations of forgery and ongoing disputes.

Caretaker Committee Members of the party in the state. Bauchi State PDP Publicity Secretary, Dayyabu Chiroma, stated at a press briefing. He said that the attention of the PDP in Bauchi State has been drawn to a misleading, inflammatory, and legally defective press statement purportedly issued on 17th December, 2025, by a group of individuals

A member of the National Assembly, Prince Bayo Balogun, has urged Nigerians to stop politicising the issue of security, pleading for their support

all government’s efforts aimed at restoring peace in parts of the country facing security challenges. He is also of the view that since security is local everyone must play a role in their respective

that creates or recognizes the office or position of national leader. “We wish to set the records straight and to properly guide party members and the general public. On Legitimacy and Authority, the said group lacks any legal, constitutional, or administrative authority to speak for, act on behalf of, or issue directives in the name of the PDP in Bauchi State”.

Oil Industry Corruption Allegations: Tinubu Urged to Ensure Unhindered Probe Wale Igbintade

A youth advocate and social critic, Nwabueze Onwuneme, has called

on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure an unhindered, transparent, and comprehensive investigation into

Stop Politicising Security, Lawmaker Begs Nigerians

Segun James

parading themselves as a “Caretaker Committee” of the PDP in Bauchi State.” According to the party, the attempt by certain individuals to portray Mr. Nyesom Wike as the “National Leader” of the PDP is reckless, misleading, and completely unknown to the Constitution of party, challenging the purveyors of this falsehood to point to any provision of the PDP Constitution

community in ensuring that peace reigns supreme. Hon Balogun, who represents Ibeju Lekki Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives made this appeal while featuring on Gbagede

Oro on Rainbow 94.1 F.M Lagos anchored by Opeyemi Makinde. He said that it is imperative for the country to adopt state police as a panacea to security challenges.

allegations of massive corruption in Nigeria’s oil industry raised by billionaire industrialist, Alhaji Aliko Dangote. Onwuneme made the call while reacting to the confirmation by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) of its readiness to investigate a petition submitted by Dangote against the former Chief Executive Officer of

the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Farouk Ahmed. The activist described the allegations as a critical opportunity for the federal government to confront what he termed “deepseated and long-standing corruption” in the oil sector, warning that failure to act decisively could attract international attention.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2025 • THISDAY

NEWS

CUSTOMERS EMPOWERMENT AND BURSARY AWARD CEREMONY...

L-R; Customers of Asha Microfinance Bank, Mrs. Aminat Olatilewa and Mrs. Simiat Sunboye; the Managing Director/CEO of the Bank, Mrs. Funmilola Paseda Oladoyinbo; other customers, Mrs. Funmilayo Taiwo, Mr. Babatunde Ezekiel and Mrs. Nurat Sanni, at the customers empowerment and bursary award ceremony organised by Asha Microfinance Bank held in Sango-Ota, Ogun State ... recently

At Christmas Carol, Uba Sani Hails Religious Leaders for Role in Kaduna Peace John Shiklam in Kaduna Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has said the prayers of religious leaders, their counsel, and steadfast commitment to peace played a

vital role in sustaining stability in the state. Sani spoke on Sunday at the 2025 Christmas Carol held at Yar’Adua Hall, Murtala Square, Kaduna. The event was organised by the Kaduna State

FRONTLINE ACCOUNTANT, ODU OF ONITSHA, ARTHUR MBANEFO DIES AT 95 such as the Justice Ayo Irikefe Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation’s finances, where his analytical rigour helped bring clarity to complex financial issues. Besides, the nonagenarian’s commitment to education and institutional development was legendary. Mbanefo held the office of Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council at three of Nigeria’s prestigious universities: the University of Lagos (1984–1986), Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife (1986–1990), and Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (1990–1993). In these roles, he was credited with promoting academic excellence, administrative discipline and moral integrity at times when higher education in Nigeria faced significant challenges. His leadership helped steer these institutions through periods of growth and reform, leaving enduring legacies in governance and academic culture. In 1999, Mbanefo entered the arena of international diplomacy when President Olusegun Obasanjo appointed him Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York, engaging with global leaders and advocating for cooperation on issues ranging from peace and security to development and human rights. His tenure enhanced Nigeria’s diplomatic

visibility and strengthened ties with other member states. In remarks made on his 94th birthday, President Bola Tinubu described Mbanefo as a member of one of the finest stock and vintage class of Nigeria’s statesmen, set apart by integrity, hard work and patriotism. “President Tinubu salutes the accomplished accountant and administrator, and describes him as being from one of the finest stock and vintage class of Nigeria’s statesmen set apart by integrity, hard work, and patriotism. The President prays for more years in excellent health for the elder statesman,” a statement by the then Presidential spokesman, Ajuri Ngelale, noted. Throughout his long life, Mbanefo was also recognised for his contributions to professional bodies. He was a Fellow of both the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, affirmations of his technical mastery and his role in shaping the accountancy profession in Nigeria. The Odu of Onitsha was a recipient of the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (MFR), Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), Commander of the Order of Merit, Republic of Italy and a Grand Officer, National Order of the Southern Cross of Brazil.

chapter of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). The governor stated that it was the third time he was participating in the ‘’sacred moment with the Christian family in the dear state”. He added, “On each occasion, I am reminded with renewed clarity that faith remains one of the most

enduring bridges to unity, healing, and collective progress in our society.” He said Christmas was not just the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, but ‘’a season that speaks, gently yet powerfully, of love, sacrifice, humility, compassion, and selfless service. These virtues transcend religious boundar-

ies and speak directly to our shared humanity. “Christmas challenges us not merely to rejoice, but to live differently; to become better neighbours, fairer leaders, and more compassionate citizens.” The governor said he attended the Christmas carol by choice, conviction, and commitment, adding that such

gatherings “renews hope, and reconnect us to the timeless values that bind us together as a people.” He stated, “I stand before you not merely as your governor, but as a fellow citizen; one who seeks renewed inspiration at a season of profound meaning for Christians across the world.”

IN JOINT OPERATION, NIGERIA, US BEGIN MAPPING OF TERRORIST ENCLAVES NATIONWIDE daily since the start of the operation. The aircraft is a Gulfstream V, a long-range business jet often modified for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions, according to the data seen by Reuters. Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu declared a security emergency last month and ordered the army and police to begin mass recruitment to tackle worsening armed violence across the country.

Yuletide: Security Agencies Deploy Massively

Meanwhile, the military and police authorities have announced extensive security measures, including large-scale deployment of personnel and operational assets nationwide, to ensure a peaceful and crime-free celebration. The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) disclosed that the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), working in collaboration with other security agencies, have intensified operations across the country, particularly in areas assessed as vulnerable to criminals and terrorists’ threats. In a statement by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, the military confirmed that additional troops have been deployed to strategic locations and along critical routes, while special forces units and air components

have been placed on high alert to provide rapid response where necessary. According to him, surveillance operations have been significantly enhanced through aerial monitoring and strengthened intelligence gathering to track the activities and movements of suspected criminal groups. He added that unit commanders nationwide have been directed to increase patrols, establish reinforced checkpoints and deepen collaboration with community leaders, local vigilante groups and state security outfits. Onoja emphasised that the Armed Forces remained fully committed to safeguarding lives and property throughout the festive period. “The security and stability of our nation remain our top priority. Every necessary measure is being taken to ensure that Nigerians can celebrate Christmas and the New Year in peace, unity and joy,” he stated. He also called on citizens to support security efforts by remaining vigilant and promptly reporting suspicious activities to the nearest security formation, assuring that all credible information would be treated with urgency and confidentiality. Similarly, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, extended his festive greetings to Nigerians, wishing them a Merry

Christmas and a prosperous New Year, while urging communities to share security-related information widely in the interest of collective safety. In a related development, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the strategic deployment of police personnel and operational assets across the country to complement the military’s efforts and ensure a safe, peaceful and crime-free festive season. The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said the directive formed part of the Nigeria Police Force’s proactive security strategy for the yuletide period. He explained that all Zonal Assistant Inspectors-General and State Commissioners of Police have been instructed to intensify patrols, visibility policing, intelligence-led operations and confidence-building engagements. The IGP further directed commands to sustain raids on identified blackspots, forests, criminal hideouts and flashpoints, while strengthening collaboration with other security agencies and community stakeholders to guarantee comprehensive security coverage. Hundeyin revealed that specialised units, including the Police Mobile Force, CounterTerrorism Unit, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Command,

Intelligence Response Team, Special Tactical Squad, Special Intervention Squad, Highway Patrol, Marine Police and the Air Wing, have been placed on heightened operational readiness. He added that deployments have been prioritised around places of worship, recreational centres, markets, parks, event venues, transport terminals, highways, critical national infrastructure and other highdensity public areas. Additional patrol and surveillance teams have also been activated along major interstate routes to curb road-related crimes, traffic disruptions and accidents. Officers on duty, he said, have been charged to remain firm but courteous in the discharge of their responsibilities. While wishing Nigerians a joyful Christmas and a prosperous New Year, the IGP urged the public to celebrate responsibly, remain alert and report all suspicious activities through designated emergency lines or the nearest police station. The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that the festive season and the period beyond are enjoyed in an atmosphere of peace, safety and security nationwide. Continues online

THISDAY • TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2025

TUESDAYSPORTS

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

0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY

Chelle: Super Eagles Will Put World Cup Failure Aside as they Take on Tanzania Today Duro Ikhazuagbe

Ahead of this evening’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group C opening clash with the Taifa Stars of Tanzania, Nigeria’s Head Coach, Eric Sekou Chelle, believes that his wards will put aside their not qualifying for the World Cup next year to make something out of their participation in the 2025 AFCON in Morocco. Speaking at the pre-match conference in Fes, Morocco on

AFCON 2025 Monday, the Franco-Malien, hinted that Nigeria’s target is to get off to a winning start. “We are our first opponent, we need to focus on ourselves and take out outside noise,” the Super Eagles supremo said at official pre-match press briefing. He continued: “Of course, the World Cup miss is painful.”

“Our first game (against Tanzania) is a big game, and the first game is very important. For sure we want to win this game,” he added. “This is not the moment

to talk about the World Cup qualifiers. For now, the most important thing is this tournament.” Nigeria’s newly appointed Super Eagles Captain, Wilfred

Ndidi, spoke almost in the same way as his coach. He insisted taking up the captaincy of the Super Eagles will not be added pressure for him at the 2025 AFCON.

Nigeria to End 2025 Ranked 38th Globally Nigeria’s Super Eagles will end year 2025 as the 38th best team in the world and the fifth best in Africa, according to the latest FIFA Rankings released on Monday. The African ratings are headed by AFCON hosts Morocco with Senegal second.

Algeria and Egypt are third and fourth, respectively. The Super Eagles will hope to improve on the rankings with a good campaign at the AFCON in Morocco as the next set of rankings will be announced on January 19, a day after the final of the continental tournament.

RESULTS

Mali 1-1 Zambia S’Africa 2-1 Angola Egypt 2-1 Zimbabwe

TODAY

Eagles players listening to team talk from Head Coach Eric Chelle after the final Oboh Earns LET Tour Super training ahead today’s Group C opener against Taifa Stars of Tanzania Card 2026 in Morocco

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Nigerian golf star, Georgia Oboh, over the weekend earned the Ladies European Tour 2026 Card at Lalla Aicha Q-School held at Al Maaden Golf Marrakesh and Royal Golf Marrakesh, Morocco with a strong finish on the leaderboard. Oboh shot 70 on the final day of the qualifier, which improved her overall score to 13 under par 277 over four days.

The Manchester-born professional golfer, shot rounds of 68 69 70 70 tofinish in a Tied for fifth spot, which proved enough to place her among the top 20 players that earned the Category 12 status on the 2026 LET. She and South African, Caitlyn MacNab, who finished at -10 under par, and in 12th position, were the only Africans who made the professional cut and earned full LET cards for the 2026 season.

The Besiktas midfielder will lead the Super Eagles out against Tanzania this Tuesday evening after he succeeded William Ekong, who has called time on his international career. “To be honest there’s no pressure,” Ndidi said on his new leadership role. “We’ve got senior players in the team helping out, with the help of the coach and the staff. “I’ve been here learning from the former captain Troost-Ekong, so there’s not pressure at all.” Ndidi celebrated his 29th birthday last week and said the team do not wish to drop the standard they set at last year’s AFCON in Cote d’Ivoire, where they reached the final.

DR Congo v Senegal v Nigeria v Tunisia v

Benin Botswana Tanzania Uganda

Eagles Get FG’s National Honours, Houses as Silver Medalists from Last AFCON Unlike earlier generations of the Super Eagles who got houses promised them after almost 30 years, the Class of 2023 that finished as runners up at the last edition of the Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire have been handed deeds to the property and the National Honours.

Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Malam Shehu Dikko, who is in Morocco for the ongoing AFCON 2025, physically handed out the documents to excited Super Eagles players at their base in Fes ahead of the team’s opening Group C clash with Tanzania today.

Dikko confirmed in a social media post last night that the honours were conferred in the categories of Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) or Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), in line with existing national awards already held by individual players.

The NSC Boss stated that the classification ensured compliance with national honours regulations, which prevent the duplication of the same category of awards, while still recognising the players’ outstanding contribution to Nigerian football at the continental tournament.

BACK PAGE CONTINUATION NIGERIA, TRUMP AND THE US Before the submission of that report, yet another American delegation led this time by Bill Huizenga (R- Michigan, 4thCongressional District) has just completed a visit to Nigeria. Huizenga was the one who said during one of the Congressional hearings in Washington DC, that the Tinubu administration was “not doing enough” but visiting Nigeria, and after all the diplomatic efforts of Nigeria, his tone is different. Members of that bipartisan delegation that just visited also displayed a better understanding of the Nigerian position and reality. They include Michael Baumgartner, Keith Self, and Jefferson Shreve, accompanied by Ambassador Richard Mills, who until yesterday was President Trump’s Nigerian Ambassador. The team met, like the Moore team before now, with senior government officials, religious leaders, civil society actors, and private sector persons. Now, what came out of the press conference by the group was that the United States is concerned about protection for all Nigerians, regardless of faith, and that the United States will work with the Tinubu administration to ensure a strong, forward-looking relationship! Ambassador Mills in fact added that the designation of Nigeria as a Country of

Particular Concern (CPC) is a tool to encourage change and dialogue, rather than a permanent label. “The better Nigeria does, the better Africa does. And the better Africa does, the better the world will do,” Huizenga added. Both Huizenga and Rep. Keith Self drove the point home by stating matter-of-factly that there will be no American “boots on the ground”, rather the US will assist Nigeria through training, logistics, intelligence sharing and capacity-building initiatives. There will be American shoes on the ground, but not military action, and that true friends should stay engaged. The US is not planning to punish Nigerians but to promote partnership, government responsibility and encouraging real, measurable progress. Rep. Keith Self even warned against simplistic narratives, and that Nigeria is “too complex for one-size-fits-all solutions”. Between October 31 and now, the tone is changing. The Republican Christian Evangelists of America have shifted from the position that Christian lives in Nigeria matter to a more realistic view that all Nigerian lives matter and that the Nigerian government and the people deserve all the support that they can get. For sure, there is nothing that cannot be

resolved through diplomacy. Within a month, the Nigerian government has scored goals on the diplomatic front in the Republic of Benin, Burkina Faso (over the detention of our soldiers and aircraft) and now, in its relations with the United States. The safest way to approach difficult challenges in relationships with other countries is through dialogue and diplomacy to build trust, promote relationships and prevent conflict. Nonetheless, in Nigeria’s relationship with the United States, it is important to pay attention to the sub-text. Nigeria as the US Congressmen admitted, is a very strategic country and partner. But this same Nigeria has been overly friendly with China and France, which is something of particular concern in today’s connected world. The United States is having a difficult moment in its relations with South Africa which may translate into waning US influence in the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Niger turned against the United States. The Sahel region in West and North Africa has more or less been overtaken by Russia and China. France is actively looking for a reinvention of its influence in Africa having been rejected by its former colonies. The

United States needs to maintain its strength and influence in a continent that is considered for the want of a better phrase as “the last frontier”. President Trump has established the American voice in the Great Lakes region by intervening in the conflict between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. He now has the ears of Nigeria! There must be other aspects to Trump’s game of power. Nigeria is one of those countries that would face visa restrictions from January 2026. Only yesterday, President Trump also recalled about 30 career diplomats from their positions, including Ambassador Richard Mills in Nigeria who actually assumed office as recently as July 2025. Trump wants to reshape American missions abroad by sending personnel who are deemed fully supportive of the “America First” policy. What does this mean in real terms? Whatever it is, it is noteworthy that Nigeria and the US are having a useful dialogue not just in security and education but also in the areas of health and trade. Nigeria has just signed a five-year, $5. 1 billion bilateral health co-operation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the US, to strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system. What is the deal? What is Nigeria giving back in return?

THISDAY • TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2025

Price: N400

BACK PAGE LEAD PHOTOGRAPH

IWA CONFERENCE SERIES 14...

L-R: Former Deputy Gov. CBN, Aishah Ahmad; Senior Consulting Counsel at Dentons Law Office, Franca Ciambella; Convener, Inspiring Woman Africa (IWA) Conference, Kemi Ajumobi; Former President of Ethiopia, H.E Sahle-Work Zewde; Acting MD/CEO Nova Bank, Chinwe Iloghalu and Obafemi Banigbe, CEO T2 (Formerly 9Mobile) at the IWA conference series 14 held in Lagos ... recently

TUESDAY WITH REUBENABATI abati1990@gmail.com

Nigeria, Trump And The US

igeria seems to be making some progress in our engagement with the United States, against the background of the Trump administration’s re-designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) on October 31, with express instruction to the Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee and Congressman Riley Moore to investigate and make appropriate recommendations to the President of the United States (POTUS). So much has happened between October 31 and now - including at least two major Congressional hearings with participation by members of the House Appropriations Committee, the Foreign Affairs Committee, the National Security Subcommittee and experts like Dr. Ebenezer Obadare of the Council on Foreign Relations and Ms. Oge Onubogu, Director of the Africa Programme at the Wilson Centre. The issue was religious persecution in Nigeria, identified as Christian genocide, communicated as the slaughter of Christians in Nigeria. One meeting was chaired by House Appropriations Vice Chair and National Security Sub-Committee Chairman Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL), and then another hearing by the House Foreign Affairs Africa sub-committee chaired by Chris Smith. (R-NJ). The hearings were robust covering the spectrum of extreme, to moderate, to liberal -with Congressman Smith claiming that over 52, 000 Christians have been slaughtered in Nigeria compared to 34, 000 moderate Muslims since 2009, and the reign of a culture of hate in Nigeria. Smith advocated for serious targeted sanctions under the Global Magnitsky Act against Nigerian individuals and entities. But there were moderate voices as well. Congresswoman Sara Jacobs (D-San Diego) said President Trump was only being reckless and that focusing on religious conflict does not capture the reality in Nigeria. This was also the view of Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (D-Washington). Congress man Bill Huizenga accused the Nigerian government of “sitting back and not doing enough” Ms. Oge Onubogu submitted that the allegation of Christian persecution merely oversimplifies an otherwise complex and more nuanced issue. Dr Obadare called for assistance and help for the Nigerian authorities. He added salt to the matter when he asked that the United States should mount pressure on President Tinubu

US President Donald Trump to make Sharia law unconstitutional in the 12 Northern States, and disband the Hisbah groups: a clear prescription for chaos. One other notable voice during the Congressional hearings was that of Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Makurdi, Bishop Wilfred Anagbe who told the lawmakers in Washington DC, that Christians in Nigeria face the danger of complete elimination, and that the Nigerian government has refused to acknowledge that such evil exists. The debate in the United States indicated a sharp division among American lawmakers and the invited experts as to the nature, scope and extent of religious conflict in Nigeria. Just as the Americans were divided, the debate at home among concerned stakeholders was even more intense. There was the loud crowd of commentators, Christian evangelists and mischievous closet and open partisan politicians who saw Trump’s threat to storm Nigeria with “guns a- blazing” as the comeuppance for the Tinubu administration that they had been waiting for. They were quite vociferous. They boasted that America already knows and that America will punish the Tinubu administration. Many of them were generous with conspiracy theories about how President Trump’s administration in the United States will stop Tinubu from being re-elected. Opposition figures were of course glad that what they could not achieve at the polls, Trump will do it for them. In their

obsession with a single narrative, they could not see far enough that whatever sanctions may be imposed on Nigeria will affect everyone, and the reputational damage would be a collective risk. Then there were others who also argued that whereas many Christians have lost their lives to kidnapping, banditry and terrorism, the truth is that all Nigerians are victims be they Christians, Muslims or animists. They are victims of a reign of terror and insecurity which successive governments have not been able to check, despite the rich vocabulary that the challenge has thrown up over the years: kinetic, non-kinetic, asymmetrical, decimated, decapitated. Nigerian public officials will justify anything with adjectives and adverbs, without any concrete action. This class of commentators urged a more sober and reflective assessment of the Nigerian situation. There is yet a third category: those who tried to play religious and ethnic politics with the conversation. Meanwhile, Muslim students at the same time were abducted from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, in Maga, Kebbi State on November 17 (25 students, two members of staff (one student escaped), 38 church members at Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Kwara State during Sunday service, and about 250 students from St. Mary’s Private Primary and Secondary School in Papiri, Nigeria State. These incidents occurring within the same period merely lent weight to the observation that Nigeria faces a serious challenge of insecurity. The situation got worse with the obvious politicization of President Trump’s characterization of religious freedom in Nigeria, and it soon got scary when a certain character who is given voice by an over-indulgent section of the media pushed the clearly stupid view that the abduction of school girls is a lesser evil than the killing of soldiers in combat. Should any child be kidnapped at all and turned into an item of merchandise in the evil ecosystem of banditry? Should anyone be killed at all, unjustly and inhumanely? The Tinubu administration did what it could to douse tension. Its spokespersons denied that there is any religious persecution in Nigeria, quoting Sections 10 (on religious neutrality) and Section 38 (on the freedom of religion, faith and belief), and Section 42 (on non-discrimination) in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

In a show of humility, the government of the day called on the United States to collaborate with Nigeria to address issues of particular concern that would be of mutual benefit to both countries. President Tinubu obviously took a long-standing advice that he had been given in the public domain by Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, Nigeria’s former Foreign Affairs Minister that he, President Tinubu would be well advised not to get into any confrontation with President Trump under any circumstances whatsoever. Pundits advised President Tinubu to seek the wisdom of the elders and explore back-room channels of engaging the Trump administration. He went a step further by declaring that his administration is committed to ensuring the safety of everyone in Nigeria. A Nigerian delegation led by the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu was soon sent to the United States to tell the Nigerian story and engage with American officials. The delegation was more of a security-focused team rather than diplomacy, but it has worked out well, all the same, in the long run. Nigeria soon set up a Nigeria-US Bilateral Working Group. President Tinubu replaced his Minister of Defence, former Governor Badaru Abubakar, who most conveniently resigned for health reasons, with a former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa. The President also ordered the removal of policemen from VIP protection duties, he directed the Department of State Services to recruit forest guards, and the police to recruit additional 50, 000 personnel all with the aim to strengthen internal security. The military followed through by freezing all pending retirements by its personnel for the next six months. Thus, the focus on Nigeria by the Trump administration had the effect of pushing the Nigerian government into action. Nigeria’s demonstration of sobriety and wisdom has since paid off. In the last month, the Nigeria-US Working Group has met, here in Nigeria, with Congressman Riley Moore leading a delegation to Nigeria. They came to see things for themselves, meeting public officials, church and community leaders, civil society figures, as well as persons in Internally Displaced Persons camps. Riley Moore has since returned. He says he is working on a comprehensive report of the trip which will be presented to President Trump. Continued on page 23

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