WEDNESDAY 5TH NOVEMBER 2025

Tinubu Seeks Senate Approval for Fresh N1.15trn Domestic Loan to Fund 2025 Budget Deficit

Akpabio: Part of borrowing will be used to pay local contractors Red chamber sets up panel to probe multi-billion-dollar railway projects under Buhari Naira strengthens at official FX market as Nigeria moves ahead with $2.3bn Eurobond plan Stock market drops further by N611.9bn on cautious trading

President Bola Tinubu has written to the Senate seeking approval for a fresh N1.15

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trillion borrowing from the domestic debt market to finance the deficit in the 2025 budget. This comes as the Senate yesterday, resolved to conduct a full-scale investigation into the

executed under former President Muhammadu Buhari, following persistent

Ibadan Court Approves Conduct of

Convention, Orders INEC to

Party’s BoT wades into leadership crisis, youth leaders pledge support for new chair Damagum, other NWC members write electoral body, IGP Chuks Okocha, Alex Enumah in Abuja and Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan A High Court of Oyo State, sitting in Ibadan, has given Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) the go-ahead to

China Rejects Planned US Military Action, EU Says It stands by Nigeria

Idris assures ‘inconsistent narrative’ will be handled with utmost seriousness Tuggar to Trump: State-backed religious persecution impossible under constitution Afenifere: Trump’s threat aimed at forcing Tinubu to

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja, Nume Ekeghe and Kayode Tokede in Lagos IN SEARCH OF EFFECTIVE TRAINING OF SECURITY AGENCIES...

L-R: Commandant, Police College, Ikeja, Lagos, AIG Omolara Oloruntola; Governor of Enugu State and Chairman, National Economic Council Committee on the Revamp of Police and Other Security Training Institutions, Dr. Peter Mbah; and Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, during the

Group News Editor: Goddy Egene

Email: Goddy.egene@thisdaylive.com, 0803 350 6821, 0807 401 0580

PrEss...

L–R: Managing Director, Academy Press PLC, Mr. Gbenga Ladipo; Former Head of National Office, WAEC, Mr. Patrick Areghan; Chairman of the occasion and former Director-General of NTA, Engr. Vincent Maduka; Representative of the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Olanrewaju Bajulaiye; and Chairman, Board of Directors, Academy Press PLC, Mr. Wahab Dabiri, during the public presentation of the book titled Celebrating the Past, Envisioning Tomorrow, held as part of the 60th anniversary celebration of Academy Press, in Lagos...recently

NNPC Reiterates 2m bpd Target by 2027,

$60bn

The Nigerian National Pe- troleum Company Limited (NNPC) yesterday reiterated its commitment to a 2 million Barrels Per Day (bpd) oil production by 2027, calling for bold global partnerships and investments to end the phenomenon of energy poverty across Africa.

Group Chief Executive Of- ficer of NNPC, Bayo Ojulari, made the comment at the “Energy Talk” session of the ongoing Abu Dhabi Interna- tional Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC 2025) taking place in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Fielding questions from the host and Pulitzer Prizewinning energy author, Daniel Yergin, the GCEO emphasised Nigeria’s pivotal role in Africa’s energy milieu, adding that NNPC was the linchpin to the drive for energy sufficiency in the African continent.

He explained that NNPC has raised Nigeria’s oil output to

in Fresh Investment by 2030

1.7 million barrels per day, with targets of 2 million bpd by 2027 and 3 million bpd in the long term, a growth that is driven by redefined relationships with Independent Oil Companies (IOCs) and independents, removing legacy blockers and aligning on shared value.

He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to working with the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) peers, African National Oil Companies (NOCs), and financial institutions to attract $30 – $60 billion in fresh investment by 2030.

Ojulari said new govern- ment incentives beyond the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) are already attracting capital for deep-water exploration, dry gas development, and cost reduction.

He spotlighted some of the nation’s high-profile energy initiatives such as upstream revival through accelerated new fields development, gas infrastructure expansion, including the near-completion

of the (AKK)Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano gas pipeline and the Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben (OB3), and the rollout of cleaner energy, including the Presidential CNG Initiative and expansion of autogas corridors.

Ojulari highlighted Nigeria’s vast oil, gas, and renewable energy potential, stressing that under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope

Agenda, there are concerted efforts to transform Nigeria from an extractive economy to a diversified, investment-driven energy“Africa’shub. energy future must be built on pragmatism, partnerships, and purpose. At NNPC Limited, we are not just participating in the energy transition, we are shaping it from an African perspective.

Our focus is pragmatic: grow production, monetize gas, deepen partnerships, and deliver value to Nigerians and global partners alike,” OjulariEchoingstated. the opening remarks of Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and ADNOC CEO, who called for “pragmatic, not performative” energy policies and emphasised

the need for $4 trillion in annual global energy invest- ment, Ojulari urged global stakeholders to co-invest in Africa’s energy future.

“Our message to the world is clear: Nigeria is open for business, and NNPC Limited is fit for the future and we invite the world to co-invest in Africa’s energy transformation,” he said.

NEMSA Intensifies Nationwide Monitoring to Ensure Safety in Power Sector

Directs EEDC to rectify 31 identified defects

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) yesterday said it had intensified its nationwide monitoring, testing, and inspec- tion of electrical installations to assure safety, stability, and reliability of power networks across the country.

NEMSA, in a statement by the Head, Communications & Protocol, Ama Umoren, said its officials carried out technical inspections of the Afikpo 33kV feeder as well as the inspection of the Nibo Injection Substation in Ebonyi State where 31 criti- cal defects were detected and reported for urgent correction.

to loss of lives and property.

According to the inspection report submitted to NEMSA Headquarters in Abuja by the Enugu Inspectorate Office, led by Osita Obiukwu, the observed defects include right-of-way violations, vegetation encroachment, broken cross-arms, aged, weak, and undersized 33kV overhead conductors with multiple joints.

Climate Change Summit

Shettima Leaves for Brazil to Attend 30th UN

To hold bilateral talks on establishing, managing Nigeria’s participation in carbon markets

deji Elumoye in Abuja

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Tuesday departed the nation’s capital, Abuja, for Brazil to represent President Bola Tinubu at the 30th session of the United Nations Climate Change Conference, tagged COP 30, holding in the South American country. The summit convened by Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, in collaboration with other partners, will be

held from November 6 to 7 in the city of Belém, capital of the state of Pará, in the Brazilian Amazon.

According to a release issued by Media Assistant to the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima is billed to join other world leaders, development partners, and business executives at the event, themed, “Climate Action and Implementation,” with a strong focus on adaptation, forests, biodiversity, and climate justice.

On the first day of engagements in Belem, the vice president will attend the general plenary of leaders, where he is expected to present Nigeria’s climate action address.

He will also take part in the launch of Tropical Forest Forever Fund, and participate in a roundtable chaired by Lula on Climate and Nature, before attending an Amazonian Cocktail for Heads of Delegation, hosted by the president of Brazil.

Consequently, the agency said it has directed the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) to immediately rectify all identified defects to avert potential hazards that could lead

The report also noted that several overhead lines were flying over residential and commercial premises, posing

serious risks to the public. Pursuant to the Electricity Act 2023, NEMSA is mandated to enforce compliance with safety requirements for the construction, operation, and maintenance of electrical power plants, transmission systems, distribution networks, and electrical installations. It is also mandated to provide comprehensive technical support services that assure the efficient production and delivery of safe and reliable electricity supply.

FG Seeks Stronger Partnership with Engineers to Bridge Infrastructure Gap

The federal government has called for enhanced collaboration with consulting engineers to accelerate infrastructure delivery across the country, saying their expertise is critical to achieving national development goals.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, stated this at the 47th Annual Conference of

the Association of Consulting Engineers of Nigeria (ACEN), themed: “Closing the Critical National Infrastructure Deficit and the Strategic Roles of Consulting Engineers,” yesterday, in Abuja.

Delivering his goodwill message, he explained that the Bola Tinubu administration is prioritising road construction, power sector

reform, rail development and digital infrastructure to drive economic growth and job Akume,creation.who was represented by his Senior Special Adviser, Technical, Prof. Babatunde Bolaji said the conference’s theme resonated with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration.

SANWO-OLU HOSTS APC SOUTH-WEST E-REGISTRATION ‘TRAIN THE TRAINERS’...

L-R: Members, APC National working Committee: National Youth Leader, Dayo Israel; South-West Vice Chairman, Chief D. I. Kekemeke; National Secretary, Ajibola Bashiru; Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Nze Chidi Duru and Lagos State APC Chairman; Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi, during the APC South-West E-registration “Train the Trainers” Refresher Training at Lagos House, Marina ... yesterday

Shettima, Emir Sanusi, Others Urge Africa to Leverage Islamic Finance for Inclusive, Sustainable Development

FRC integrates Islamic finance services within Nigeria’s financial reporting framework

Dike Onwuamaeze and Kayode Tokede

Vice President Kashim Shettima and other economic sstakeholders, yesterday called on African nations to deepen the adoption of Islamic finance as a tool for inclusive and sustainable economic transformation across the continent.

Equally, the 14th Emir of Kano, His Royal Highness, Muhammadu Sanusi, expressed his heart’s desire to see an Islamic banking institution in Nigeria that will be as big as Access Bank, or First Bank of Nigeria, or the United Bank for Africa.

This was as the Executive Secretary of the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC), Dr. Rabiu Olowo, said Nigeria has witnessed growing relevance of Islamic finance services over the last decade, which brought with it the obligation for regulators to ensure that financial reporting for Islamic finance services is

consistent, reliable, and globally comparable.

In furtherance of this, Olowo declared that the FRC “intends to formally include Islamic finance services within Nigeria’s financial reporting framework by adopting the standards issued by the Accounting and Auditing Organisation for

Avuru Laments Regulator’s Focus on Decommissioning Oil, Gas Assets against Prioritising Low Cost Production to Raise Output

Reveals agency listed one attractive asset with 149 wells for decommissioning Posits unlike UAE, S’Arabia, Nigeria not planning for life after oil

A top oil and gas investor and Executive Chairman of AA Holdings, Mr. Austin Avuru, has expressed concerns with efforts and resources being invested by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NU- PRC) on decommissioning and abandonment of oil and gas assets in the country, instead of devoting such regulatory actions to drive down the cost of production to increase Nigeria’s output.

Avuru, who is also a non-

executive director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), particularly cited a case where the upstream regulator listed one asset with 149 wells for decommissioning.

He argued that in some cases, the value of assets listed for decommissioning and abandon- ment were less than the cost of such exercise.

Avuru, spoke in Lagos, while contributing during a panel discussion at a special oil industry dinner organised by the Petroleum Club Lagos,

in celebration of the 75th birthday of the Chairman of AMNI International Petroleum Development Company, Chief Tunde Afolabi.

THISDAY recalls that the NUPRC had in September announced that it had approved 94 Decommissioning and Abandonment (D&A) plans since April 2023, saying that represented total liabilities of $4.424 billion, arising from all Field Development Plans (FDPs) submitted within this period. It had stated that over $400

Ondo Begins Disbursement

of N350m to 11,000 Students

Fidelis David in Akure

To ease the financial burden of students and their spon- sors, the Ondo State Government has kicked off the disbursement of over N350m to indigenous students in tertiary institutions across the country.

At the flag-off ceremony in Akure, on Tuesday,

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa said the scheme is a critical instrument in revitalizing education and motivating students to aim higher. Represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami, the governor stressed his administration remains committed to educational advancement and human capital development.

According to him, “The year 2025 has been a remarkable chapter in our educational journey, as our interventions have continued to transform lives, institutions and communities across Ondo State. In this sector alone, our administration has recorded significant strides through various programmes and projects.

million in decommissioning li- abilities had already been secured by the Equally,organisation. the Gbenga Komolafe- led commission had revealed in its in-house magazine published last month that it was targeting to cut Nigeria’s oil production cost to below $10 per barrel in the medium term.

Islamic Financial Institutions (AAOIFI).”

They all spoke yesterday in Lagos, at the 7th African International Conference on Islamic Finance (AICIF), where they enjoined Islamic financial institutions (IFIs) to deplore finances to the unreached and unbanked small-scale enterprises in rural areas to promote inclusive economic growth.

The Special Adviser to the President on Economic Affairs, Dr. Tope Fasua, who represented Vice President Kashim Shettima, said the true measure of progress lies in inclusion.

Fasua added: “We believe that prosperity must be shared and sustained. In one year, our tax revenue has grown by over 400 per cent and tax to GDP ratio has nearly doubled.

“Our resources are being channeled into education, healthcare, and livelihood. We are ensuring that access to financing and insurance opportunities are extended

to the underserved.

“From the Nigerian education loan fund that empowers our students, to real credit schemes that support SMEs, our objective is to build an economy that leaves no citizen behind.”

The Vice President emphasised that Islamic finance provides a credible framework for promoting shared prosperity, rooted in ethics, fairness, and social responsibility.

He said Nigeria’s experience demonstrates the transformative potential of Islamic finance instruments such as sukuk, takaful, murabaha, and waqf, which have financed critical infrastructure and expanded access to inclusive financial services.

“Our sukuk issuances, now in their seventh cycle, have funded more than 120 major road projects covering nearly 6,000 kilometres,” Shettima noted. “Each bond represents a covenant between government and citizens, proof that finance can build rather than burden.”

Global Generator Makers, Jubaili Bros, Perkins Engage Stakeholders on Solutions to Reliable Power in Nigeria

Two of the world’s major manufacturers and suppliers of innovative diesel, gas, and hybrid power generating sets, Jubaili Bros Engineering Ltd and Perkins, have engaged with partners, customers, and stakeholders in Nigeria, providing insights on achieving a reliable and sustainable energy generation in the country.

At a technical seminar held in Lagos, by Jubaili Bros, in collaboration with Perkins, participants

discussed Nigeria’s evolving energy landscape and how to explore solutions for reliable and sustainable power generation.

The event, with the theme: “Powering Nigeria – Diesel, Gas & Hybrid Versatility for a Sustainable Future”, brought together consultants, engineers, engineering equipment contracting (EPC) firms, and corporate clients from across the country.

Discussions centered on the future of diesel, gas, and hybrid technologies, as well

as digital monitoring systems designed to enhance operational efficiency and uptime.

The seminar highlighted the partnership between Jubaili Bros and Perkins and their shared focus on developing efficient, sustainable, and adaptable energy solutions for Nigeria.

A key feature of the event was the introduction of the diesel generators powered by Perkins 5000 series, a new range of engines engineered for high performance and environmental responsibility.

Maiha: Digital Public Infrastructure

Key to Harnessing Livestock Potential

Seeks NADF support, says platform will limit customers, cattle movement, enhance seamless access to critical information, others NADF boss vows financing assistance

James Emejo in Abuja

Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha, yesterday, said the development of digital public infrastructure was fundamental to achieving the ministry’s mandate and maximising opportunities in the sector.

Maiha said the digital platform will limit cattle movements and physical contact, expand market ac- cess, enable seamless access to critical information about livestock activities, regulation, and compliance regime, as well as boost the sector’s visibility.

Maiha spoke at a meeting with Executive Secretary, National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF), Mr. Mohammed Ibrahim, who led a delegation on a working visit to the ministry in Abuja.

He stressed that the quest for digital infrastructure aligned

with key objectives of the livestock ministry.

Maiha said the digital infra- structure was “fundamental in our journey. We don’t have to reinvent the wheel. It’s not the issue of now carrying a stick and moving with animals”.

He stated, “It’s a question of — look, we have 815 livestock markets across this country. We have a number of other very critical stakeholders. We want people to stay in the comfort of their rooms and then find out what is happening in the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development.”

Maiha said, “This is what we want — to take it to a further level, and then make sure that people stay connected to us. And by connecting to us, they can connect to the market — both locally, regionally, and globally.

“Having established this ministry and made some

progress, our first priority is to ensure visibility in the public domain. Nigeria has over 815 livestock markets across the country. Even beyond the major cities, livestock trading is vibrant.

“Our request, therefore, is for NADF’s support to help us digitise and make

our livestock data publicly accessible. In other countries, you can see every detail about their livestock industry on your mobile device — and we want that here.”

The minister asked NADF to support the ministry in developing, deploying, and launching a National Livestock

Public Digital Infrastructure, a platform that would put Nigeria’s livestock industry on the map.

He said the initiative will give visibility to local and international partners, investors, and development organisations.

The minister stated, “We’ve

had discussions with investors, including those from the Gulf region, who are interested in Nigerian livestock, especially our red meat industry. With such a digital platform, they wouldn’t need to travel to Nigeria to see what’s avail- able — a simple click would reveal everything.

Tinubu Nominates Enugu AttorneyGeneral, Udeh, as New Minister

Sunday Aborisade in

Barely a month after the resignation of Mr. Uche Nnaji as Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology over alleged certificate forgery, President Bola Tinubu has appointed Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, SAN, as his replacement.

The nomination of Udeh, who

FG to Create Dashboard for Real-time Monitoring of Performance Indicators

The federal government said it was already advancing key initiatives, including digital dash- boards, for real-time monitoring of national priorities and perfor- mance indicators. Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, disclosed this yesterday in Abuja, at the sectorial retreat of heads of agencies under the OSGF, with the theme, “Strengthening Coordination for Results: Aligning Mandates with Presidential and Service Priorities for Effective

PolicyAkumeImplementation.” described technology as a powerful tool for enhancing transparency, coordination and efficiency, stating that digital in- novation must be employed as the country’s indispensable ally.

The SGF stressed that the federal government was also planning to create e-government platforms to improve service and carry out data integration frameworks for evidence-based policy“Theseplanning. tools will empower us to make better-informed decisions, track progress accurately, and

communicate results effectively to the Nigerian people,” Akume said.

The SGF attributed policy failure to lack of inter-agency collaboration, insufficient performance monitoring, and weak coordination.

He stated the Tinubu administration had established a clear and ambitious vision for national development through the Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises economic revitalisation, social inclusion, infrastructural development, and foundational governance reform.

currently serves as the Attorney- General and Commissioner for Justice in Enugu State, was contained in a letter Tinubu forwarded to Senate, which was read during Tuesday’s plenary by President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio.

In the correspondence, Tinubu urged Senate to give the nominee an expeditious consideration in accordance with constitutional provisions.

The letter read, in part, “In compliance with the provisions of Section 147, Subsection 2 of

the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended, I am pleased to forward to the senate the nomination of Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh for confirmation as Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“While I hope that this request will receive the usual expeditious consideration of the Senate, please accept, distinguished Senate President and distinguished senators, the assurances of my highest regards.”

Following the reading of the letter, Senate referred the request to the Committee of the Whole for immediate screening and confirmation.

Udeh hails from Enugu State and is expected to fill the state’s ministerial slot in the Federal Executive Council, which became vacant after the exit of Nnaji.

Nnaji, who was appointed in August 2023, resigned last month following widespread allegations of certificate forgery levelled against him.

Commonwealth Conference: FG Assures Nurses, Midwives of Support

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

The federal government on Tuesday pledged to support the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) in hosting the 2026 Com- monwealth Nurses and Midwives Federation Conference (CNMF), West African Region, in Abuja.

Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, gave the as- surance at the State House, Abuja, when the leadership of the association paid him a courtesy visit ahead of the event.

Gbajabiamila reiterated the Tinubu administration’s unwavering commitment to healthcare reforms, noting

that health remains one of the government’s top priorities. He cited several recent achievements, including the revitalization of primary healthcare centres, the expansion of national health insurance coverage from 20 million to 60 million Nigeri- ans, and increased investment in health infrastructure and manpower development.

NSCDC Arrests Kidnap Syndicate on Zaria-Kano Highway, Nabs Five Suspected Vandals in Kwara

Michael Olugbode in abuja and Hammed shittu in Ilorin

Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested a five-man syndicate which specialises in kidnapping, extortion, theft, and criminal conspiracy operating on Zaria-Kano road.

Similarly, the NSCDC, Kwara State Command, has arrested five suspects for their alleged involvement in the vandalism and theft of

transformer and streetlight cables in Ilorin, the state capital.

Briefing journalists in Abuja, the CommandantGeneral Special Intelligence Squad Commandant, Apollo Dandaura, narrated the encounter with the notorious gang nabbed for committing brigandage and forcefully attacked one Sani Ahmad driving from Zaria to Kano, and was flagged down by the gang on the account that there was danger ahead.

He said the victim,

Ahmad, was compelled to stop the vehicle unknown to him that he was already in the hands of kidnappers who subsequently extorted valuables from him.

Ahmad, from his statement, hinted that he is a journalist, and on the said day, he was travelling with his friend, Mallam Haruna, his wife and a child, but the unfortunate incident happened after he dropped his friend and family in Zaria and continued his journey to Kano.

Court Orders Interim Forfeiture of Lagos Night Club

Wale igbintade

The Federal High Court in Lagos has granted an order of interim forfeiture on a property located at No. 7 Akin Adesola Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, allegedly used for the storage and distribution of illicit drugs.

Justice Musa Kakaki granted the order following an ex parte application filed and argued by counsel to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Mr. Buhari Abdulahi.

Over Drug Allegations

The property, known as Proxy Lagos Night Club, was said to have been used as an instrumentality of drug dealing and abuse by its owners, Mike Nwalie and Joachim Hillary.

According to the NDLEA, the premises were used to store 169 cylinders (384.662 kilograms) of Nitrous Oxide (commonly known as Laughing Gas) and 200 grams of Cannabis Sativa, both classified as controlled substances under Nigerian law.

In the motion dated

October 27, 2025, the agency sought an interim forfeiture of the property to the Federal Government and an order suspending all business operations at the night club pending the conclusion of investigation.

Arguing the motion, Mr. Abdulahi told the court that the night club had been used for the storage, concealment, and sale of drugs, adding that the substances were kept in preparation for an illegal drug party scheduled to take place at the venue.

Unilever Nigeria Records Revenue Growth, Doubles Profit to N22bn

Raheem akingbolu

Despite the economic headwinds, things are looking up for the one of the fast moving consumer goods giant Unilever Nigeria Plc, as indicated in its interim unaudited financial results for the nine months ended September 30, 2025.

According to the results, the company reported a turnover of N155 billion, which represents 50 per cent increase from N104 billion turnover recorded in the same period of 2024.

Gross profit rose 49 per cent to N64 billion, while profit after tax doubled to N22 billion, up from N11 billion in the corresponding period in 2024.

Speaking on the results, the Managing Director of Unilever Nigeria Plc, Tobi Adeniyi, said: “Our Q3 performance reflects the strength of our focus on our power brands, strategic product mix optimisation, and disciplined cost management. We are committed to sustaining brand investment, ensuring

supply chain resilience, and delivering volume-led growth with our robust portfolio.”

Adeniyi further highlighted Unilever Nigeria’s longstanding commitment towards building and expanding its growth trajectory and plans.

“As a cornerstone of Nigerian manufacturing for over 100 years, we continue to invest locally in expanding our operations, build equitable partnerships across our value chain, and nurturing deep trust with our Nigerian consumers.”

EiE Nigeria Celebrates 15 Years of Transforming Civic Engagement

Enough is Enough (EiE) Nigeria, a foremost civic movement and one of Africa’s most influential voices for democratic accountability, is set to celebrate 15 years of inspiring citizen action and reshaping governance. The milestone will be marked with a landmark event on December 10th in Lagos.

Themed “Footprints & Frontlines,” the celebration will capture the dual spirit of this milestone - reflection and momentum. Footprints speak to the trail EiE has

blazed across Nigeria’s civic landscape - from protests to policy advocacy, radio town halls to civic tech tools, voter campaigns to youth mobilisation. These mark fifteen years of citizens daring to speak, build, and demand better governance.

On the other hand, Frontlines represent the ongoing work of nationbuilding - in classrooms, courtrooms, markets, studios, and digital spaces - wherever Nigerians are pushing for progress through integrity, creativity, and service.

According to EiE, the event promises an inspiring blend of intellect and reflection, headlined by Director-General of the World Trade Organisation(WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and will be hosted by media icon Ebuka ObiUchendu and Arise News anchor Ayo Mairo-Ese. The gathering is poised to ignite fresh momentum for civic participation and accountable governance across Africa’s largest democracy.

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GOOD SERVICE, DECENT REWARD

Christian persecution is a myth sustained by emotion, ignorance, and vested interests, argues UDU YAKUBU

THE MYTH OF CHRISTIAN PERSECUTION IN NIGERIA

Uba Sani raises salaries of Kaduna's tertiary education workforce, writes YUSUF ABASS CHRISTOPHER

The claim that Christians are systematically persecuted in Nigeria has become a recurring headline in both domestic and international media. Yet this narrative, upon closer examination, is misleading and politically expedient. It distorts Nigeria’s complex security and governance crises into a simplistic religious binary that obscures the deeper realities of state failure, elite manipulation, and moral decay. What Nigeria faces today is not religious persecution but the consequences of a broken state, where both Christians and Muslims are victims of violence, neglect, and systemic corruption. The “Christian persecution” narrative serves as a convenient but false refuge for those unwilling to confront the nation’s real problems.

Reducing these multi-dimensional crises to “Christian persecution” is a dangerous oversimplification that hinders meaningful policy responses.

narratives of persecution over economic hardship, applicants have learned to recode their struggle for survival as a struggle for religious freedom.

Thus, the story of “Christian persecution in Nigeria” has become not merely a domestic propaganda tool but an export commodity – a moral currency traded in embassies, immigration interviews, and humanitarian bureaucracies. Each successful claim reinforces the myth abroad, giving new credibility to the very narrative that made the claim possible in the first place.

KALU OKORONKWO pays tribute to the immediate past Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa

Nigeria is one of the world’s most religiously diverse nations, nearly evenly divided between Christians and Muslims, with millions of adherents of indigenous faiths. Across the nation, churches and mosques stand side by side, from the ancient cities of Kano and Sokoto to the riverine towns of Bayelsa and Cross River. Christian schools; hospitals, and businesses thrive in the North, just as Muslim communities live and worship freely in the South.

This lived reality contradicts the notion of a nation at war with itself on religious grounds. While isolated incidents of inter-communal violence persist, the idea of a systematic campaign to eradicate Christianity in Nigeria collapses under scrutiny.

To understand the persistence of this false narrative, one must look beyond faith to the broader crisis of governance. Nigeria’s most violent episodes over the last two decades – Boko Haram’s insurgency, the farmers-herders clashes, and widespread banditry – are rooted not in theology but in state failure, poverty, environmental stress, and the weaponization of ethnicity and religion by political elites.

Boko Haram, for instance, began as an extremist movement rejecting, not Western education and civilization as is commonly and erroneously believed, but the colossal, inter-generational failure of state authority as embodied by the supposedly westerneducated Nigerian elite, Muslims and Christians alike. Its attacks have claimed the lives of tens of thousands of Nigerians, most of them Muslims. The farmers–herders conflict, often simplistically framed as “Muslim Fulani herders versus Christian farmers,” is fundamentally a resource war fuelled by desertification, demographic pressure, and the collapse of traditional conflict resolution systems. Banditry in the North-West is driven by criminal opportunism and economic desperation, not by ideology.

Religious victimhood in Nigeria has become a powerful political and financial instrument. Certain domestic religious organizations, advocacy groups, and their foreign allies have discovered that the persecution narrative opens doors –to funding, international sympathy, and political leverage. It allows religious leaders to rally followers under the banner of existential threat while distracting attention from governance failures within their own communities.

Internationally, the narrative finds fertile ground among Western evangelical circles and advocacy networks, which often see Africa through a neo-missionary lens – as a continent of suffering Christians needing rescue from hostile Muslim majorities. Such groups influence Western policy debates and shape global perceptions, often without nuance or on-the-ground evidence.

This alliance of interests creates a selfreinforcing echo chamber: Western groups demand action; Nigerian actors supply emotional testimonies; and the resulting media cycle reinforces a myth that serves both sides, while deepening mistrust within Nigeria itself.

One of the most potent forces sustaining the myth of Christian persecution in Nigeria is the global asylum economy – a system in which stories of religious suffering are monetized, institutionalized, and rewarded by Western immigration frameworks. Over the past decade, tens of thousands of Nigerians have sought asylum or refugee status in Europe and North America, invoking claims of “religious persecution” as the central justification for their flight.

While a minority of these applicants may have faced genuine threats in conflict zones, the overwhelming majority are economic migrants – ordinary Nigerians seeking escape from poverty, unemployment, or social stagnation. Yet, because Western asylum systems are predisposed to accept

This cycle operates on mutual incentives: for desperate migrants, the persecution story provides a strategic entry ticket to societies that might otherwise reject them; for Western immigration systems, it affirms a self-serving moral identity as protectors of religious freedom and saviours of endangered Christians; for religious and advocacy groups, it validates their fundraising appeals and ideological positions about Islam’s “threat” to Christianity.

The consequences, however, are deeply corrosive.

First, this distortion undermines Nigeria’s image internationally, portraying it as a failed and intolerant state unable to guarantee basic religious rights – when, in truth, millions of Christians and Muslims coexist peacefully across its territories. Second, it trivializes the suffering of genuine victims of violence, who are often caught in the crossfire of terrorism or communal conflict unrelated to faith.

Third, it feeds xenophobic and security anxieties abroad, as Western media and policy circles internalize the false image of Nigeria as a breeding ground for religious extremism.

Perhaps most dangerously, this asylumdriven narrative becomes a feedback loop. Each accepted case of “persecuted Christians” in the diaspora emboldens new applicants, encourages local churches and NGOs to supply “documentation” or “testimonies,” and amplifies international advocacy campaigns that pressure Western governments to “act.” The line between compassion and exploitation disappears; humanitarianism becomes a business, and truth becomes negotiable.

In the process, both faith and nationhood are debased. The Nigerian who claims persecution abroad implicitly indicts his homeland as barbaric and irredeemable, while foreign actors who amplify such claims reinforce a neo-colonial paternalism that denies Nigeria’s agency and complexity.

Dr Yakubu is Chief Biographer & CEO at May Publishing, Lagos. Email: udu.yakubu@ gmail.com

Uba Sani raises salaries of Kaduna's tertiary education workforce, writes YUSUF ABASS

GOOD SERVICE, DECENT REWARD

Recently, it was in the news that Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has committed to implementing 70 percent of the Consolidated Polytechnics and Colleges of Education Academic Staff Salary Structure (CONPCAS) and Consolidated Tertiary Institutions Salary Structure (CONTEDISS).

At a time when the effects of brain drain are clearly seen, our academics deserve more attention. It is commendable that Sani is aligning to increase the academics' emoluments. Hence, the recent applause for Sani by the Head of Service of Kaduna State, Mrs Jummai Bako, is right on target. It symbolises the governor as a leader who not only talks of commitments but acts on them. It fits into a broader pattern of purposeful change across the state under his watch. "His action has once again demonstrated that he is a leader who is ever willing to engage constructively, to deliver lasting solutions to matters of staff welfare," Mrs. Bako said. "This bold and compassionate decision reflects the Governor’s integrity, empathy, and unwavering dedication to good governance, social justice, and sustained harmony between government and the workforce."

Earlier in October 2025, the administration held a meeting with the Joint Union of Tertiary Institutions (JUTIKS) which was facilitated by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Kaduna State Council. In attendance were representatives from Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic, the College of Education Gidan Waya, and the Kaduna State College of Nursing and Midwifery. At that meeting, Sani also approved 65 years as retirement age for academic staff and 40 years of service for non-teaching staff in Kaduna State-owned tertiary institutions. The implementation took effect immediately.

The governor’s decision to implement the new salary scale for academic staff under the state’s tertiary institutions framework aligns neatly with this broader commitment to education and welfare. When staff morale is lifted and compensation is adjusted in recognition of their work, the ripple effects can be profound and especially for teachers, as it translates to overall success in the educational sector. The Head of Service noted that staff members had already begun to receive alerts of salary adjustments—a clear sign of delivery rather than delay.

From his first day as governor on May 29, 2023, Sani has emphasised that good governance is defined by improvements

in people’s lives rather than empty rhetoric. He has directed his energies toward sectors of society which too often linger at the margins: educators, small-holder farmers, students, and underserved rural communities. For instance, his administration cut the tuition fees in all state-owned tertiary institutions by 50 percent. That act was designed to expand access to higher education and remove a significant barrier for many families. At the same time, hundreds of classrooms and new secondary schools have been constructed or renovated, teacher furniture supplied, and thousands of pupils’ desks provided across local government areas in Kaduna.

Also, in Kaduna, a significant step forward has been taken in formalising the apprenticeship programme of the renowned Panteka Market through the partnership with the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE). The move aligns thousands of artisans within the market, with recognised training and certification frameworks, including the Nigerian Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF). With NBTE granting full-training-centre status to Panteka and integrating it into formal accreditation processes, the governor’s administration signals a clear commitment to elevating vocational work from the margins into mainstream economic empowerment. However, Sani’s focus on vocational training goes beyond Panteka. His administration has established three new Vocational and Technology Skills Acquisition Centres in Soba, Rigachikun and Samarun Kataf, each designed to offer training in trades such as welding, aluminium fabrication, solar installation and fashion design, with the aim of graduating thousands of youths annually. These institutions are intentionally located across the state’s three senatorial districts to ensure inclusive access.

By transforming the artisanal vibrancy of Panteka Market into a formal training ecosystem, the governor is recognising the value of traditional skills while modernising their context for today’s economy. Artisans at Panteka now have access to infrastructure upgrades, certification pathways and linkages to viable employment or entrepreneurship, a situation which bridges the gap between informal learning and formal recognition. By formalising the apprenticeship trainees of Panteka Market with NBTE and investing in vocational institutions, Sani is positioning Kaduna as a pioneer in vocational training and human-capital development.

Governor Sani’s administration has also shown that its vision for Kaduna State is not piecemeal but interconnected: education links into health, agriculture, infrastructure, security and economic inclusion. On the agricultural front, his government launched what has been described as the largest free fertiliser distribution programme in the state’s history—500 trucks of fertiliser, 240,000 bags provided freely to 120,000 small-holder farmers.

Abass writes from Kaduna

KALU OKORONKWO pays tribute to the immediate past Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa

CHRISTOPHER MUSA: EXIT OF A LEADER

Friday, October 31, 2025, was not just another day in the annals of the Nigerian Armed Forces. It was a day when the parade ground of Mogadishu Cantonment in Abuja fell into a rare silence, not of formality, but of reverence. Soldiers stood taller, some blinking back emotions. The wind seemed to move in tandem with the event: solemnly. In that moment, the nation wasn’t merely witnessing the retirement of a military officer; it was witnessing the graceful exit of a man who had quietly rewritten the ethos of military leadership in Nigeria.

The Pulling-Out Parade in honour of the immediate past Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, marked the end of an illustrious 39-year career devoted to defending Nigeria’s unity and sovereignty. The event drew senior military officers, top echelon of government officials, society’s glitterati, family members, and friends who gathered to celebrate a man widely admired for his professionalism, patriotism, and resolute commitment to national security.

Across Nigeria, Gen. Musa’s departure stirs deep respect and nostalgia for a soldier-statesman who redefined what military leadership means in a democracy. His tenure was not about wielding authority but about wielding influence, restoring dignity, professionalism, and empathy to the heart of the Armed Forces.

As Nigerians watched him take his final salute, one sentiment cut across ranks and regions: Musa led not just with command, but with conscience.

Delivering his valedictory address as the Special Guest of Honour, General Musa expressed deep gratitude to God, the Nigerian Armed Forces, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for the trust and opportunity to serve as the nation’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS).

“This Pulling-Out Parade is not just a ceremony; it is a sacred military tradition that marks the end of a journey of service that lasted over 39 years and the beginning of a new chapter in my life. I am totally humbled as I reflect on the incredible privilege it has been to serve our great nation, Nigeria, in the noble profession of arms. As I hang my uniform today, I do so with a clear conscience, knowing that I gave my all. I leave with cherished memories of camaraderie, of battles fought and triumphs celebrated as one family. The sound of the bugle may change for me, but the soldier’s heart beats on forever,” he said.

Born on December 25, 1967, in Sokoto State, Major General Musa, OFR, hails from Zangon Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State. He had his elementary and secondary education in Sokoto before proceeding to the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna, in 1986 for his military training. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant into the Infantry Corps of the Nigerian Army as a member of the 38th Regular

Course on September 21, 1991.

After his commissioning, General Musa attended several military and civil courses, including the Mechanical Transportation Officers Course (1992), Young Officers Course (Infantry) (1993), Regimental Signal Officers Course (1998), Junior Staff Course at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji (2000), and the Senior Staff Course at the same institution (2004–2005).

He also earned an Advanced Diploma in Defence and Strategy from the International College of Defence Studies, National Defense University (ICDSNDU), Changping, China, in 2013, and an MSc in Military Science from ICDSNDU in the same year. An alumnus of the National Defence College, China, he also attended the Combined Joint Land Component Commander’s Course on Leadership at the US Army War College in 2017.

Throughout his distinguished career, General Musa held numerous key appointments: from Platoon Commander to Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force (North-East), Operation HADIN KAI before his appointment as Nigeria’s 23rd Chief of Defence Staff.

His service record reads like a chronicle of dedication: Platoon Commander, Intelligence Officer, Administrative Officer, Chief of Staff, Commandant, and ultimately, Chief of Defence Staff. Each role deepened his reputation as a professional who valued competence above convenience.

For a meritorious service, he received several honours and awards, including the MNJTF Medal (2021), Grand Service Star (GSS), Field Commander Medal of Honour (FCMH), and Operation HADIN KAI Medal (OPHK). In May 2023, he was conferred with the prestigious National Honour of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) by President Tinubu.

General Musa’s career was one of quiet resilience and purpose. From his formative years, discipline and humility became his trademarks. He joined the NDA with a singular conviction, that service to one’s nation is the highest form of honour.

Okoronkwo is a communications strategist, and a leadership and good governance advocate

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

BEYOND THE CURRENT FTAF REPRIEVE

The administration should work to strengthen institutions charged with combating illicit financial activities

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) last week removed four countries, including Nigeria, from its ‘grey list’ after positive progress in addressing shortcomings within agreed timeframes. The delisting, according to an obviously elated President Bola Tinubu, marked a “major milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards economic reform, institutional integrity and global credibility”, while the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) said it had “worked resolutely through a 19-point action plan” to demonstrate its commitment to improvements. While we commend the NFIU whose mandate includes collecting currency transaction reports (CTRs), suspicious transactions reports (STRs) and other information relevant to money laundering and terrorist financing activities, it is important to avoid these cyclical suspensions.

The Egmont Group, the highest inter-governmental association of intelligence agencies in the world with membership by 152 countries, provides a platform for sharing criminal intelligence and financial information bordering on money laundering, terrorism financing, proliferation of arms, corruption, financial crimes, and economic crimes.

the international ratings of Nigerian financial institutions, restricting their access to some big-ticket international transactions. The FATF maintains “grey” and “black” lists for countries it has identified as not meeting its standards. It considers grey list countries to be those with “strategic deficiencies” in their anti-money laundering regimes, but which are nonetheless working with the organisation to address them. FATF President Elisa de Anda Madrazo called the removal of Nigeria and the three other countries “a positive story for the continent of Africa”.

The country’s membership paved the path for the removal of Nigerian banks from the blacklist of international finance

Nigeria was fully admitted into the coveted body in 2007, after operational admittance in 2005, in what was considered one of the biggest achievements of the Olusegun Obasanjo administration. Some of the agencies that benefit from the activities of the group include the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Nigerian Customs Service, Independent Corrupt Practices and Related Offences Commission (ICPC), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) among other relevant governmental agencies.

The country’s membership paved the path for the removal of Nigerian banks from the blacklist of international finance. The blacklisting had prevented the banks from engaging in correspondent banking with foreign institutions and denied Nigerians access to foreign credit cards. It also affected

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

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

In July 2017 Nigeria was suspended from the Egmont group, following failure to grant operational autonomy to the NFIU. With that, Nigeria was denied access to some foreign sources of funds hitherto relied on for funding our deficit budget in addition to other grants and aids. With Nigeria categorised as a non-cooperative territory, efforts were made to redress the situation. The enactment of the NFIU Act, 2018 signed into law by the late President Muhammadu Buhari was helpful. The law establishes a legal framework for a national center that will be responsible for the receipt and analysis of information from financial institutions and designated non-financial institutions, for the purpose of generating and disseminating intelligence to all law enforcement agencies and other competent persons.

While the absence of a legal framework for NFIU Nigeria and lack of operational and financial autonomy among others were problems in the past, the situation has been redressed with the law. Despite that, Nigeria was in 2023 placed “under increased monitoring" due to strategic deficiencies in its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CFT) framework. Even when that has now been resolved, the biggest challenge to the anti-money laundering legislations is the lack of political will and the laissez-faire approach from relevant government agencies. While we commend the efforts that led to the removal of Nigeria from the list of non-cooperation countries and territories (NCCTs), the current administration must work to strengthen institutions that are charged with combating money laundering and other illicit financial activities in the country.

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.

DONALD TRUMP: WHAT TINUBU SHOULD DO

President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu should immediately send a high-powered delegation composed of respected Nigerian statesmen, business leaders, and senior government officials to engage with U.S. authorities.

The team should include former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar, business mogul Aliko Dangote, Bishop Hassan Matthew Kukah, and the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Most Rev. Dr. Daniel Okoh, His Eminence Sultan of Sokoto, representatives of religious groups, NGO, etc.

From the government side, the delegation should include the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, and the Governors of Benue, Plateau, Niger, Katsina, Kaduna, Zamfara, Borno,

Yobe and Adamawa States, given the security relevance of their regions.

Two, re-engage the U.S. Mission in Nigeria:

The Presidency should task the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other well-placed Nigerians with deepening communication with the U.S. Mission in Abuja and the Consulate in Lagos to strengthen diplomatic rapport, address misperceptions, and align mutual strategic interests.

Three, reach out to U.S. allies and partners: Nigeria should actively engage with other influential U.S. allies across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia to rally broader international support for Nigeria’s security and development agenda.

Four, seek U.S. assistance in defense cooperation: President Tinubu should formally request more support from the Donald J. Trump administration in providing modern

weapons, intelligence-sharing technology, and counter-insurgency training to bolster Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and violent extremism.

Four, immediate appointment of ambassadors: Nigeria’s diplomatic missions have remained without substantive ambassadors for too long. Swift appointments of competent, credible, and globally respected diplomats will help restore Nigeria’s voice and visibility on the international stage.

Five, the Minister Yusuf Tuggar should be reassigned to another portfolio, and a new Minister of foreign affairs, preferably one with strong international connections and more diplomatic weight, should be appointed. Zayyad I. Muhammad, Abuja

Amid market distortion and significant increase in price of Premium Motor Spirit and other products, six oil & Gas companies listed on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) generated an estimated N7.44 trillion in 9 months ended September 30, 2025. This represents 26 per cent increase over the N5.9 trillion reported in the corresponding period of 2024.

The firms are: Arabel Holdings Plc, Conoil Plc,

Seplat Energy Plc, Eterna Plc, Totalenergies Marketing Nigeria Plc and Oando Plc.

The companies saw mixed revenue growth in the period under review attributable to a challenging operating environment shaped by price distortions and increased domestic refining capacity from players like Dangote Refinery.

Analysis of unaudited results for the 9 months ended September 30, 2025 showed that Seplat Energy declared N3.36 trillion revenue, about 213 per

cent increase over N1.07 trillion reported in 2024.

Seplat Energy in its report stated that, “In nine months of 2025, average daily working interest production for the group was 135,636 boepd (9M 2024: 47,525 boepd), firmly within the upper half of our original production guidance (120,000 - 140,000 boepd).

“Total crude & condensate production increased by 242per cent to 27.8 MMbbls, compared to the 8.1 MMbbls produced in nine months of 2024. Total

gas produced during the period rose 68per cent to 47.7 Bscf (nine months of 2024: 28.4 Bscf), and we also produced 1.0 MMbbls of NGLs in nine months of 2025.

“As such, aggregate production for the period rose 184 per cent to 37.0 MMboe (nine months of 2024: 13.0 MMboe), reflecting the transformational impact of the offshore assets consolidation and strong performance on our onshore assets. Production performance in our onshore

operations remained strong, up 16per cent from the equivalent period in 2024 (9M 2025: 55,299 boepd; 9M 2024: 47,525 boepd).

The firm added that, “The growth was underpinned by a confluence of positive catalysts including good performance of new onstream wells, sustained gas production from the Western assets and production growth in OML 53. Production deferment in the period was 21per cent onshore (9M 2024: 24per cent) and 20per cent offshore.

“Onshore deferments improved compared to nine months of 2024, underpinned by export route availability for our Eastern assets and resumption of Trans Escravos Pipeline (TEP) operations following 2Q 2025 scheduled downtime. Offshore deferments were due to planned EAP shutdown and three-day production downtime in Yoho production platform caused by the fire incident (details in the HSE section).”

Nume Ekeghe

CCredit to Nigeria’s private sector stood at N72.53 trillion in September 2025, while total loans to the government increased to N24.16 trillion.

The latest Money and Credit Statistics report released by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) showed that the structure of domestic credit is evolving in response to recent rate cuts, fiscal consolidation efforts, and changing liquidity conditions across the banking system.

trillion in May.

Private sector credit began the year at N77.38 trillion in January, before declining modestly to N76.26 trillion in February and N75.98 trillion in March. It rebounded strongly in April to N78.07 trillion, marking the highest level recorded this year, before easing slightly to N77.97

The moderation continued into June, when total private-sector loans dropped to N76.13 trillion, followed by a mild recovery to N75.88 trillion in August.

By September, total credit stood at N72.53 trillion, as some banks slowed new disbursements pending clearer signals from the monetary policy environment.

Analysts attribute the September decline partly to portfolio adjustments, lower credit demand from corporates, and risk rebalancing by banks after the mid-year rate review.

Conversely, credit to the government has maintained a steady upward trend since mid-year.

Data from the CBN showed that government borrowing opened the year at N25.03 trillion in

January, rose sharply to N27.11 trillion in February, before easing slightly to N24.59 trillion in March and N23.93 trillion in April.

Borrowing moderated further to N22.99 trillion in May, dipped to N21.66 trillion in June, and then climbed again to N22.95 trillion in August before settling at N24.16 trillion in September.

This represents a 5.26

per cent month-on-month increase and highlights renewed fiscal activity heading into the final quarter of the year. On a year-on-year basis, however, government borrowing has declined by 38.8 per cent, from N39.47 trillion in September 2024, indicating reduced dependence on central bank funding and a gradual move toward fiscal discipline.

Post-harvest Losses: Need for Agriculture Insurance

High yields and bumper harvests by pepper farmers this season have resulted in glut in pepper markets, forcing the farmers to incur huge losses. Ebere Nwoji reports that this reinforces the need for farmers to insure their produce and pass the losses to insurers.

Current significant glut in the supply of fresh pepper in Nigerian markets and the consequential losses recorded by farmers call for the need for agric insurance among farmers in the country.

In different parts of the country, farmers including pepper sellers witness harvest of losses as there is 80 to 90 per cent fall in the price of pepper. Indeed, the losses are so huge that farmers said proceeds from pepper sales could not cover cost of seedlings and fertilizers used in farming the pepper let alone the cost of labour and transportation from their point of production to market places.

Reports Across the country

Across the country, there are media reports on farmers’ lamentation over financial and produce losses. Reports from Enugu said that pepper farmers have raised the alarm over the sharp fall in prices of the commodity, attributing the development to heavy supplies from the Middle-Belt region. According to the report, in Enugu, a measure of pepper previously sold for N5,000 now goes for N1,000.

The sellers lamented that before the present glut, pepper business used to be profitable as buyers from Port Harcourt, Owerri, and Umuahia patronised them heavily.

In Lagos, the story is the same. One

of the pepper sellers in the popular Iyana-Iba market narrating her bad experience in the business this season, told THISDAY that her pain was not only that the price drastically fell, but sellers scarcely sell their stocks because the supply was much more than demand with the result that at various bus stops, there is common site of bags of wasted pepper heaped by the road sides being trampled upon by passers-by. Indeed, at various dust bin spots, there is common site of perished pepper bags thrown away by the sellers. The wastes are so much that sellers lamented that their business capital would not be recovered, let alone make profits. In Lagos, a bucket of pepper that before now sold for N5000, now sells for N2000 or even less.

Absence of insurance Cover

The situation has been worsened by lack of preservative facilities among farmers with the result that in time of glut, the farmers have no choice than to dispose what they have at any given price that the buyers are willing to pay and then retire to counting losses. Also in the mist of these losses, most farmers lacked adequate insurance cover against glut and other related risks. Agric experts said the worst situation in glut risks is that it is highly unforeseen and unpredictable and as such, farmers often fall victims.

For instance, the experts recalled that at this time last year (November, 2024), farmers were smiling to banks even up to march this year as pepper prices were very impressive to the farmers.

As a result of the high demands and high profits they recorded last year, farmers sunk much money into the business this year; little did they know that this high level of glut would hit the pepper market. Due to the abundance of supply during this harvest season, the price of pepper has dropped sharply. A big bag of pepper in Lagos markets fell by over 48 percent to around N80,000 in September 2025 from N155,000 in August. Some reports from Benue State indicate an 80 percent price crash where farmers are forced to sell at “giveaway prices.” The glut is attributed to a bountiful harvest, especially from major producing regions in the Middle Belt and Northern Nigeria, such as Benue, Kano, Kaduna, and Plateau states.

A major challenge in pepper business is the perishable nature of the commodity and the severe lack of adequate storage and processing facilities. Farmers are often compelled to sell their produce immediately after harvest at low prices to avoid spoilage, which exacerbates the market glut and their financial losses.

Market Dynamics

The surplus supply has led to a stagnant market in some areas, with fewer agents and buyers, further driving down prices.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

Obi: Nigeria’s Entrepreneurial Future Hinges on Supporting Small Businesses

Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has emphasized the importance of supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs in Nigeria.

Speaking at the launch of Ebele Obi’s book, “Just Go Further! Becoming the Total Entrepreneur,” in Lagos, Obi lamented the lack of support for entrepreneurs in the country.

“Nigeria’s problem today is that younger ones think wealth is money,” Obi said.

“We have people here who have built wealth, but we are not celebrating them. We are not even supporting them.”

Obi stressed that entrepreneurship is key to transforming society and creating jobs. He cited examples of successful entrepreneurs like Steve Jobs and Bill Gates, who achieved greatness despite facing

exceptional team, and the success of long-term strategy.

REX Insurance said it exceeded its financial targets for the year ended December 31st, 2024 having grown its premium income by 72 percent to stand at N28.76 billion in 2024, and total assets at N56.10 billion.

The company said this success was achieved despite a complex and dynamic global economic environment which businesses waded through the year.

REX Managing Director / Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Ebelechukwu Nwachukwu at a press briefing in Lagos said the firm’s performance during the period was a testament to the strength of its business model, the dedication of its

“Our vision is to continuously reinvent ourselves to be more responsive to our customers’ needs; by adopting a customercentric approach across all business units and investing in our people and technology, we aim not only to enhance our service offerings but also to become one of the best places to work, aligning with our core values,” she said. According to the Rex boss, despite facing significant challenges, including a large claim that impacted on our financial standing, we are pleased to report that the company successfully met its obligations and settled the claim in a timely manner.

challenges and setbacks.

“The greatest company today in the world is Apple, which was created by somebody who didn’t know how to add things up,” Obi said. “Steve Jobs was a dropout, but he was creative

The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) has conferred an Honorary Fellowship on the Chairman, Board of Directors of Parallex Bank Limited, Dr. Adeola Phillips, in recognition of her outstanding leadership, professional excellence, and contributions to Nigeria’s financial and corporate sectors.

The investiture ceremony, which held at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts, National

and went on to change the world.”

Obi also emphasised the need for financial literacy and prudence, saying that many Nigerians struggle with managing their finances because they were not taught how to do so.

The book’s author, Ebele Obi, said that her book aims to teach people how to become successful entrepreneurs and contribute to the economy.

Theatre, Lagos, brought together leading figures in banking, business, and public policy. The President and Chairman of Council of CIBN, Prof. Pius Olanrewaju, congratulated the honourees, noting that each recipient had “distinctly earned the honour through their dedication, ethical leadership, and immense contributions to the banking industry and Nigeria’s economy at large.”

According to Prof.

“I want to encourage young people to take the path of entrepreneurship,” she said. “It’s not easy, but it’s worth it.”

Olanrewaju, the honorary fellows exemplify “the values of professionalism, integrity, and service excellence,” which the Institute seeks to promote across the nation’s financial system. He encouraged them to continue serving as role models and to support the Institute’s mission of deepening capacity and trust within the financial services sector.

Delivering the keynote address, the Chief Executive

The book reviewer, Oseloka Obaze, described the book as a motivational guide for budding entrepreneurs.

Bank Chairman

Officer of Future Africa, Mr. Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, called on the banking industry to increase investment in young Nigerians, describing them as “the engine of the nation’s future economy.” Aboyeji emphasized that empowering the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs would “sustain the growth of the financial ecosystem and redefine how banking supports national development.”

SMEDAN to Elevate Small-scale Enterprise Lab’s MBA

Dike Onwuamaeze

The Director General/ CEO of Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Mr. Charles Odii, hasb expressed the agency’s interest to elevate to

national event the activities of the Small-Scale Enterprise Lab (SSE Lab), which promote small and medium-scale enterprises through its Manufacturing Business Accelerator’s (MBA).

Odii, who was represented by Lagos

State Manager, SMEDAN, Dr. Olubunmi KoleDawodu, expressed this view in Lagos on Thursday during the MBA Business Shower Cohort 2 Graduation and Business Showcase ceremony with the theme “Innovation, Inclusion and Impact:

Redefining MSMEs in Nigeria’s Economy.” He said: “Our interest is to take this further than what it is now and expand it and make it a grand-national event. This is very dear to SMEDAN as a federal government’s agency in Nigeria.”

Access Holdings Demonstrates Resilience Amidst Dynamic Operating Environment

Kayode Tokede narrates how Access Holdings Plc sustained its growth trajectory in its nine-month financial results as well as its agility in execution and the capacity to turn challenges into opportunities

In a year marked by economic headwinds, market volatility, and shifting regulatory dynamics, Access Holdings Plc has once again demonstrated resilience. The Group’s nine-month financial results for 2025 reveal growth in figures and strength in fundamentals, as well as agility in execution and the capacity to turn challenges into opportunities across its expanding African footprint.

Giving the challenging environment, institutions are becoming more cautious and so is Access Holdings. But the Group continues to move ahead with assurance. Between January and September 2025, it recorded gross earnings of N3.9 trillion, representing a 14.1 per cent year-on-year growth from N3.4 trillion in the corresponding period of 2024.

More significantly, compared to its half-year performance, earnings surged by 56.2 per cent, reflecting strong momentum across both banking and non-banking subsidiaries.

Steady

Growth Across Segments

The performance was powered primarily by a surge in interest income, which rose 21.1 per cent to N2.9 trillion, driven by expansion in the loan book and disciplined asset optimisation. Net interest income followed the same upward trajectory, climbing nearly 49 per cent to N1.3 trillion.

Complementing this was a solid showing in fees and commissions, an area that continues to benefit from the Group’s growing digital ecosystem. Net fee and commission income rose 44.3 per cent year-on-year to N476 billion, reflecting rising transaction volumes and deeper customer engagement across digital and alternative channels. When viewed quarter-on-quarter, this figure represents a 100.8 per cent increase from the half-year, signaling renewed consumer confidence and expanding market reach.

While total non-interest income slipped

marginally by 8.1 per cent to N872 billion, the Group’s strong core operations ensured overall earnings growth remained robust. Operating income advanced 19 per cent to N2.13 trillion, reinforcing Access Holdings’ ability to balance scale with efficiency.

Navigating Headwinds with Discipline

The broader Nigerian macro-economic environment has remained challenging, characterised by inflationary pressures, currency volatility, and tight liquidity. For Access Holdings, these conditions translated into a rise in loan impairment charges, which increased 141.5 per cent to N350 billion. Even against this backdrop, the Group managed its costs with remarkable discipline. Operating expenses rose by a modest 6.7 per cent, helping the cost-to-income ratio improve to 54.6 per cent, from 60.8 per cent a year earlier. This operational efficiency underpinned a profit before tax of N616 billion, up 10.4 per cent year-on-year, while profit after tax reached N447 billion. More strikingly, when viewed sequentially, Access Holdings’ profitability accelerated sharply, with profit before tax climbing

91.9 per cent and profit after tax more than doubling (107.9 per cent) compared to the half-year period. Such performance, analysts say, underscores the Group’s ability to respond dynamically to market realities while sustaining growth. “Access Holdings is showing that strategic diversification works,” noted one Lagos-based financial analyst. “It has built an institution resilient enough to withstand domestic challenges while drawing strength from its growing international footprint.”

Stronger Balance Sheet, Broader Horizon

The Group’s balance sheet expansion remains one of the strongest in the industry. Total assets jumped 25.8 per cent to N52 trillion, propelled by customer deposits, which rose 47 per cent to N33.1 trillion. Loans and advances also grew 19.7 per cent to N15.6 trillion, reaffirming Access Holdings’ commitment to supporting productive sectors and private enterprise across markets.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this growth story is the performance of the Group’s non-Nigerian subsidiaries, which now contribute over half of consolidated

results. From Ghana to Kenya, South Africa to the UK, Access Holdings’ pan-African and international operations through its banking subsidiaries, have become a stabilising force, insulating the Group from the full impact of domestic macroeconomic pressures.

This strategic diversification, both sectorally and geographically, has emerged as a core differentiator in a banking landscape grappling with policy shifts, regulatory tightening, and evolving customer needs. It’s a long-term play that is beginning to pay dividends.

Resilience Rooted in Strategy

Apart from the impressive numbers, Access Holdings’ success is anchored in a clear strategy: build a financial ecosystem that connects individuals, businesses, and markets across Africa and beyond. The Group continues to deepen synergies across its banking, insurance, pension, payments, and asset management businesses, creating a vertically integrated model designed for scale, efficiency, and sustainability.

Even as return on equity (ROE) and return on assets (ROA) moderated slightly to 15.4 per cent and 1.3 per cent, respectively, the Group’s management remains focused on long-term value creation. Its digital transformation initiatives, regional expansion, and robust risk management framework all point toward sustained competitiveness in an increasingly integrated financial landscape. According to the Group’s management, the focus going forward will be on “deepening market presence, strengthening operational resilience, and delivering long-term value for stakeholders.” That ambition is underpinned by a clear understanding of the shifting financial ecosystem, where technology, innovation, and trust increasingly define success.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

Haldane McCall: Building Value Through Real Assets

Haldane McCall

Plc is a Nigerianbased property and hospitality investment company focused on delivering affordable housing and operating budget hotels under the “Suru Express” brand. The company operates primarily in Nigeria and the Republic of Benin, with plans to expand further across West Africa to meet rising urbanization demand. In November 2024, Haldane McCall successfully listed on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), introducing 3.12 billion shares at N3.84 per share and achieving an initial market capitalization of approximately N11.99 billion. With a dual focus on real estate development and hospitality, the company is strategically positioned to generate both one-time revenues from property sales and recurring income through hotel operations—offering a balanced and scalable business model.

Peep Into FY Financials

Haldane McCall delivered strong financial results for 2024, underscoring the value of its diversified asset base: Revenue: N3.64 billion, a 109per cent increase from N1.74 billion in 2023, largely driven by land and property sales totaling N2.68 billion, Profit Before Tax: N1.01 billion, up 168per cent from N378 million, Profit After Tax: N679.6 million, up 164per cent YoY from N256.96 million and Total Assets: N21.99 billion, reflecting a 22.8per cent increase from N17.91 billion. The board declared a N220.6 million dividend (N7 kobo/share), translating to a payout ratio of 32.5per cent, a signal of management’s commitment to value creation and shareholder returns.

Strategic Development

Haldane McCall continues to invest in scalable infrastructure. The Company delivered 48 housing units in Porto Novo, Benin Republic, and 34 units in Ketu, Lagos. It is

currently developing a 1,200-unit housing project in Majidun, Lagos with Ongoing expansion of Suru Express Hotels to strengthen recurring revenue streams. In May 2025, shareholders approved a capital raise of up to N250 billion through a rights issue and debt issuance, enabling accelerated development of housing and hotel assets in underserved urban markets.

Beting on Haldane McCall

Haldane McCall has strong potential for accelerated growth. The high double-digit growth in both revenue and net income shows strong operational and effective capital allocation. It has a strong asset-backed value. With total assets approaching N22 billion and a deep property pipeline, the company may be undervalued relative to its book value and earnings potential. There is Rising demand for affordable housing and budget hospitality—driven by urbanisation

and a youthful population creates tailwinds for sustainable expansion. It has a consistent dividend policy combined with stock appreciation offers a compelling total return story and its listing on NGX improves transparency, access to capital, and investor confidence.

Investors Takeaway

Haldane McCall presents a unique opportunity for investors seeking exposure to Nigeria’s booming real estate and hospitality markets. Its balance of asset-backed securities, growth potential, and shareholder returns make it an attractive medium-to-long term play. Haldane McCall combines the solidity of real estate with the scalability of hospitality. With a proven ability to execute, growing assets, and plans to scale across West Africa, the company is well-positioned to deliver strong total returns. Investors with a 2–5-year horizon should consider increasing exposure to capitalize on this growth trajectory, while remaining attentive to compliance and balance sheet discipline.

Firm Secures $50bn Funding for Ondo’s 500,000bpd Refinery, FTZ Development

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

Following the successful execution of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Backbone Infrastructure Limitde and the Ondo State Government, through the Ondo State Investment Promotion Agency (ONDIPA), for the construction of a 500,000 barrels-per-day refinery and the development of a 1,471-hectare Sunshine Free Trade Zone in the Ilaje area of Ondo State in July, Backbone has said that it has secured project funding exceeding $50 billion for both projects through a joint venture agreement with its partner, NEFEX Holdings Limited of Canada.

The team, which arrived in Nigeria recently, is set to visit Ondo State to interact with the State Government Officials and

pay a courtesy call on the State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

The BINL team will be led by the Chairman, Senator Ken Nnamani, including other Board members and the Executive management team led by Henry Owonka.

Speaking on the refinery financiers, BINL’s Vice-President for Corporate Services, Mr Wale Adekola, disclosed that NEFEX Petroline is involved in engineering and construction services for ports, terminals and logistics facilities, including pipelines and facilities in the Oil and Gas Industry.

Adekola stated, ‘’With operations across the Middle East, Europe, North America, and beyond, NEFEX Petroline combines the advantages of a global network with deep local understanding. The firm maintains partnerships

with leading global financial institutions to secure multicurrency credit lines and liquidity support for large-scale operations.’’

“Our partnership with NEFEX opens the next chapter for the commencement of BINL Refinery development, ‘’ the BINL executive added.

BINL, which operates from offices in Abuja, London and Zug, Switzerland, is also exploring a strategic partnership with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) to drive the development of the ultramodern refinery complex.

Adekola applauded Governor Aiyedatiwa for his commitment and robust support for the projects which have attracted a groundswell of approval from the people of the state across the globe.

WIOCC Begins Fibre Duct Infrastructure Project in Abia

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

The West Indian Ocean Cable Company (WIOCC) has given a huge boost to the digital inclusion drive of Abia State by partnering the government to build fibre duct infrastructure project that would connect all homes and businesses.

The transformative infrastructure project designed to expand broadband access, enhance digital inclusion and improve last-mile connectivity across Abia would begin from Aba, the commercial city.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony held at the headquarters of Aba North Local Government, yesterday, the Chief Executive Officer(CEO) of Open Access Data

Centres(OADC), a subsidiary of WIOCC Group Company, Dr Ayotunde Coker, highlighted the project’s significance.

He said that the duct infrastructure, being driven by WIOCC, Africa’s digital backbone, continues bridging the digital divide and advancing national broadband goals as more states are joined to the connectivity.

“Our partnership with the Abia State Government represents a shared vision to accelerate digital access and inclusion,” he said.

Abia Governor, Alex Otti in his address said that Abia was already “taking tomorrow” by initiating the process of extending digital and internet connectivity to all residents.

He stated that the digital inclusiveness drive would be achieved through an interconnected underground duct system supporting the deployment of reliable broadband technology, superior digital services.

Otti said that “while the project will begin with the urban centres, my assurance is that no community will be left behind” in the progressive expansion of digital connectivity.

“Our target is that over the next 12 to 18 months, we shall see a dramatic rise in the number of homes, schools, offices, and institutions connected to the broadband superhighway that runs on the DUCT fiber infrastructure we are laying the foundation today,” he stated.

NSDC Launches Sugarcane Outgrower Development Programme to Boost Local Production

Sunday Ehigiator

The National Sugar Development Council (NSDC) has announced the launch of the Sugarcane Outgrower Development Programme (SODP), a flagship initiative aimed at accelerating local sugar production and driving Nigeria closer to self-sufficiency.

In a statement, the Executive Secretary/CEO of NSDC, Mr. Kamar Bakrin, noted that the programme is a key component of the Nigeria Sugar Master Plan (NSMP II) and has been designed to scale up local sugarcane production, reduce the nation’s reliance on imports, and stimulate inclusive economic growth,

particularly within rural communities.

“The SODP is designed to boost local sugarcane cultivation, reduce Nigeria’s dependence on sugar imports, and create opportunities for inclusive economic growth by integrating outgrower farmers into the industry’s supply chain. This programme will complement the output of existing large-scale sugar estates and help close the national supply gap,” Bakrin stated.

Bakrin further emphasised that this is a pioneering initiative in Nigeria’s sugar sector.

He said, “For the first time, a structured outgrower development programme will formally integrate farmers at all levels into the national sugar

value chain. This campaign is about reaching every stakeholder, from large-scale operators to smallholder farmers, and ensuring that everyone has a fair opportunity to contribute to Nigeria’s journey towards self-sufficiency in sugar production.”

Speaking on the programme framework, the Head of OutGrower Management at the NSDC, Mrs. Lade Offurum, explained that the SODP will engage three key categories of farmers, agribusinesses and commercial farmers cultivating 50–500+ hectares, farming cooperatives, who can apply as organised clusters of between 30 and 50 hectares, and individual farmers or friends willing to jointly farm clusters of 30+ hectares.

NAHCO Grows Profit by 46% to N18b in Q3 2025

Kayode Tokede

Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO) Plc has further strengthened its impressive earnings outlook with the third quarter results showing double-digit growths across key performance indicators within the ninemonth period.

The nine-month results of NAHCO for the period ended September 30, 2025 released at the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) at the weekend showed strong growths across sales and profitability, with a 47 per cent increase in net earnings underlining the increased capacity of the leading aviation handling and logistics group to sustain improved returns

to shareholders. The report showed that total revenue rose by 40.7 per cent from N33.95 billion in third quarter 2024 to N47.76 billion in third quarter 2025, driven by renewed and new business contracts and expanding business activities across the subsidiaries.

Gross profit rose by 37.1 per cent to N28.43 billion in third quarter 2025 as against N20.74 billion

in third quarter 2024, showing top-line cost efficiency despite domestic and global inflationary pressures.

Operating profit jumped by 40.8 per cent from N12.88 billion to N18.14 billion, underlining the fact that the performance of the company was driven by business operations rather than financial or structural management. Profit before tax

leapt by 46 per cent to N17.94 billion in third quarter 2025 compared with N12.29 billion in third quarter 2024.

After taxes, net profit stood at N13.46 billion, representing a remarkable increase of 46.6 per cent on N9.18 billion recorded in comparable period of 2024. With this, earnings per share increased simultaneously from N4.71 to N6.91, providing significant

headroom for the group to sustain higher dividend payouts, even by the third quarter. The balance sheet of the group also remained strong with total assets rising from N46.95 billion in December 2024 to N48.64 billion by September 2025. Shareholders’ funds also increased from N20.04 billion in December 2024 to N21.92 billion in September 2025.

SOStainability Week ly

Trends and Threads

Nigeria ’ s Transportation and the Decarbonisation Challenge

Nigeria’s transport sector is heavily reliant on fossil fuels, with road transport accounting for over 90 percent of internal goods movement. This dependence contributes significantly to the nation’s carbon emissions, with transportation responsible for 21 percent of Nigeria’s greenhouse gas emissions, a figure that continues to rise as urbanization and economic growth accelerate.

While Nigeria’s transport and logistics sector is critical to the economy, it also presents a significant environmental challenge. As the world intensifies efforts to combat climate change, Nigeria faces the difficult task of balancing economic growth with reducing its carbon footprint.

According to Nigeria’s Third Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0), the transport sector has a mitigation potential of 44.3 Mt CO2e. Key measures to reduce emissions include the adoption of electric and compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles, with targets like replacing diesel with CNG in 50 percent of locomotives by 2035 and transitioning 30 percent of the road transport fleet to electric vehicles.

So, what must Nigeria’s transport and logistics sector do to meet global sustainability targets? It’s clear that innovation, policy reform, and a climate-first regulatory framework are crucial. However, true progress will only be achieved when these actions are aligned with Nigeria’s infrastructure realities and regulatory landscape.

The State of Nigeria’s Transport Sector Nigeria’s transport sector has grown exponentially over the past few decades, driven by rapid urbanisation, population growth, and increasing demand for goods and services. Yet, this growth has come at a cost. Road transport accounts for more than 90 percent of the internal movement of goods and passengers, and with that comes a heavy reliance on fossil fuels. This dependence has resulted in significant greenhouse gas emissions, making the transport sector one of the leading contributors to Nigeria’s carbon footprint.

While road transport dominates, other modes, such as rail and maritime, remain underdeveloped. The poor state of road infrastructure, combined with a fragmented logistics system, exacerbates fuel inefficiency and increases emissions. As a result, Nigeria’s transport sector not only contributes to environmental degradation but also faces enormous economic and public health costs, including high fuel consumption, increased air pollution, and poor road safety.

Are Regulations and Compliance Moving Us Toward Sustainability?

Regulations are key to driving the transformation of any sector, but in Nigeria’s transport and logistics industry, the current framework is largely focused on safety and infrastructure. While important, these regulations have not sufficiently addressed the climate impacts of the sector. For instance, compliance requirements like vehicle inspections, axle load limits, and freight forwarding regulations aim to ensure safety and efficiency. However, these measures don’t fully incentivize or require operators to consider emissions or fuel efficiency as part of their operations.

To align with global climate goals, Nigeria needs regulations that prioritise sustainability. This could include mandating lower emissions for all new vehicles, incentivizing the use of cleaner fuels, or establishing stricter penalties for non-compliance with environmental standards. Without such regulations, the industry will continue to contribute to the climate crisis without any significant change.

Where Nigeria Can Start?

The path to a cleaner transport sector does not need to be an all-or-nothing proposition. While transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs) might be a long-term goal, there are several practical and cost-effective steps Nigeria can take in the short term. Here are some key actions that could yield immediate results: Optimizing Freight Movement: Many emissions come from inefficient freight movement. Poor infrastructure, long wait times at ports, and empty trucks making return journeys are major contributors to fuel waste. Streamlining the logistics network by optimizing routes, improving port efficiency, and encouraging shared loads

can reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Simple improvements in efficiency can have a massive impact on reducing the carbon footprint of the sector. Improving Road Infrastructure: Roads in Nigeria are often poorly maintained, leading to longer travel times and higher fuel consumption. Investing in infrastructure upgrades, including better road quality and intelligent transport systems, would reduce these inefficiencies and contribute to significant emissions reductions

Adopting Cleaner Fuels: While Nigeria may not yet be ready to transition fully to EVs, the introduction of cleaner fuels like Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) could

serve as a bridge. CNG is cheaper and more environmentally friendly than traditional diesel, and Nigeria could incentivize its adoption through subsidies or tax breaks for operators who switch to cleaner fuels.

Public Transport Expansion: Expanding and improving public transport systems is one of the most effective ways to reduce emissions. The expansion of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems in urban areas, along with investments in rail, could reduce the number of private vehicles on the road, leading to fewer emissions and less congestion.

Need for a Just Transition

One of the major concerns in Nigeria’s push for a greener transport sector is the potential economic impact on workers. A just transition, one that balances environmental sustainability with economic and social equity is essential. Nigeria must ensure that the workers who rely on the fossil fuel-based transport system are not left behind. This includes retraining programs for those involved in the transport and energy sectors, as well as policies that encourage local job creation in the green economy.

The country must also ensure that new technologies and policies do not disproportionately increase transportation costs for consumers. The removal of fuel subsidies in 2023, while a necessary economic measure, has already led to increased transportation costs for many Nigerians. It is crucial that the government adopts policies that make sustainable alternatives not only environmentally friendly but also economically viable for the average Nigerian.

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Washing and hushing

Corporate Social Investment : Getting It Right for Best Results

Aprevious article on this page, “Social Value vs CSR: Why Companies Should Care,” presents a thoughtful discussion on how businesses in Nigeria can balance profit-making with societal well-being. It clearly distinguishes between Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) - often philanthropicand Social Value, which is more integrated into business strategy.

This follow-up piece seeks to address the deeper systemic and

structural challenges that prevent Nigerian companies from moving beyond tokenism toward measurable social transformation.

The Missing Lens: Accountability and Impact Measurement

One major gap in most

reports, yet few provide verifiable data on the long-term outcomes of these initiatives. For instance, PwC Nigeria (2021) found that less than 30 percent of Nigerian organizations use measurable indicators to track the effectiveness of their social investments. Many companies can tell you how much they donated to a cause, but not how many lives were improved or how communities evolved as a result. Without transparency and standardized reporting frameworks like the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) or Social Return on Investment (SROI), CSR remains largely

Community as Beneficiaries, Not Partners

Too often, projects are decided in corporate boardrooms without local participation. As research

Events and Newsmakers

Bank of Industry Launches Groundbreaking ESG Report

Last week, the Bank of Industry (BOI) hosted its inaugural Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) conference in Lagos. The landmark event brought together leaders, innovators, and experts from across various sectors to advance the conversation on sustainable business practices in Nigeria. The conference theme, “Advancing ESG Adoption,” was a significant milestone in BOI’s ongoing efforts to support the sustainable industrialization of Nigeria’s economy.

The conference was not just a discussion forum; it also featured the launch of the highly anticipated “ESG Adoption by Nigerian Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)” report. This report revealed critical insights into the barriers facing Nigerian businesses in embracing ESG principles, which will shape future initiatives aimed at supporting the MSME sector in adopting sustainability practices.

Dr. Olasupo Olusi, MD/CEO of BOI, presented the findings of the report, emphasising the need for enhanced support to MSMEs, which constitute over 80 percent of Nigerian businesses and play a pivotal role in driving the country’s

economy. The report identified limited funding and lack of technical capacity as the largest barriers to ESG adoption among MSMEs. Other challenges highlighted in the report include inadequate policy-linked incentives, limited knowledge, and low customer demand for ESG-compliant products and services.

“MSMEs are the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, contributing

nearly half of the nation’s GDP and employing millions of Nigerians,” Dr. Olusi stated. “For these businesses to remain competitive and thrive in a changing global economy, adopting ESG principles is not just necessary, it is an imperative.”

The conference also featured several insightful panel sessions focused on the practical steps Nigerian businesses can take to integrate ESG into their operations.

has shown, community members are treated as beneficiaries, not stakeholders. This top-down approach creates mistrust and dependency, especially in oil-producing regions where companies’ “gifts” are seen as compensation, not partnership. Real social value emerges when communities co-design programmes - when women, youth, and local leaders are part of identifying priorities, implementing projects, and evaluating results. That is how social initiatives move from “charity” to “shared ownership.”

Culture of Compliance Over Commitment

Many Nigerian businesses engage in CSR because they have to, not because they truly believe in it. Regulatory frameworks and sectoral guidelines from the Nigerian Exchange now encourage sustainability reporting, but compliance often stops at box-ticking. A genuine shift toward social value requires embedding sustainability in the company’s DNAin its supply chain, recruitment, energy use, and governance. For instance, few companies have integrated climate-conscious production systems or gender-inclusive procurement policies into their operations. The emphasis remains on short-term visibility, not long-term resilience.

Lack of Alignment Between CSR,

ESG, and

National Goals

Another area often overlooked is the disconnection between corporate initiatives and national sustainability goals. Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), National Development Plan (2021–2025), and Energy Transition Plan (2022) call for private sector leadership in renewable energy, green jobs, and inclusive growth. Yet, most corporate CSR efforts remain scattered and unaligned with these frameworks. For example, while Access Bank’s Green Bond initiative aligns with global ESG standards, smaller firms lack the guidance or incentives to follow suit. This creates a sustainability gap between multinational corporations and indigenous businesses.

Moving Forward: What Companies Should Do Differently

To move beyond good intentions, Nigerian companies must redefine success from profits alone to purpose and performance combined. This requires embedding social value into business models not as side projects, but as part of how value is created and shared. It also requires measuring what matters using data-driven frameworks to track real impact and report transparently; building partnerships with communities and government to co-create solutions that reflect local; investing in employee engagement because true CSR begins internally, with fair wages, inclusion, and capacity development; and aligning with national and global sustainability goals ensuring every initiative supports broader climate and social objectives.

Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE

Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com

08033025611 sms only

Trump’s Extreme Madness and Failure of Leadership

Iyobosa Uwugiaren argues that while nigerians may have been ‘’disgraced’’ by actions and inactions of the past governments, including Bola Tinubu’s administration, nigerians must defend its country against Trump’s extreme madness without party, ethnic or religion sentiments.

If President Donald Trump’s recent decision on Nigeria were put to a popular vote in the US, it’s not likely to pass. Most Americans, especially Democrats, have a negative view of Trump. A recent NBC News poll found that over 52% of Americans believe Trump has done more to undermine the US Constitution than protect it. Additionally, about 80% of Democrats give Trump a cold rating, with 73% holding a very unfavorable view of him.

In particular, former respected President Barack Obama has been vocal about his discontentment of Trump, calling him “lawless and reckless” and criticizing Trump’s tariff policy and deployment of National Guard troops to US cities. Most Democrats also perceive Trump as having higher levels of gloomy traits, particularly narcissism, psychopathy, and sadism.

But, why is this character, often criticized for his stance on immigrants and accused of racism, suddenly claiming to champion Nigerian Christians, and threatening military action against Nigeria if President Bola Tinubu doesn’t act swiftly to protect them? Is he genuinely concerned or just playing politics? Or it is part of the US foreign policy, to put pressure on Tinubu’s administration to quickly end the killings across Nigeria?Trump said few days ago that he had asked the US Defence Department to prepare for possible “fast” military action in Nigeria, if the country fails to crack down on the killing of Christians. But, apparently trying to play down tension between US and Nigeria, despite Trump calling Nigeria a ‘’disgraced country’’, the Presidency through the Special Adviser on Media Policy, Daniel Bwala, said it would welcome U.S. help in fighting Islamist insurgents as long as its territorial integrity is respected.

‘’We welcome U.S. assistance as long as it recognises our territorial integrity,” Bwala, told Reuters. “I am sure by the time these two leaders meet and sit, there would be better outcomes in

our joint resolve to fight terrorism.”

Outside President Trump’s extreme stance, many Nigerians believe his intervention will put suffocating pressure on the government at all levels to end the senseless killing across the country.

Islamist insurgents such as Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province have created mayhem in the country for more than 15 years, killing thousands of people. Security experts, NGOs and other observers

said the level of insecurity -- motivated by rising criminality, continued to worsen since Tinubu came to office.

For instance, earlier in the year, a Catholic seminarian was burnt to death, when bandits attacked the residence of the Chancellor of the Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan in the Zangon Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State. Bandits had also attacked a mosque in the Ikara Local Government Area of Kaduna State and killed seven worshippers.

In December last year, armed gunmen launched coordinated attacks on more than 17 villages

in Plateau State, killing more than 150 persons, mostly Christians, injuring and displacing thousands of others. Between mid-April and early July, this year, attackers killed more than 200 persons, all of them Christian, in the Mangu Local Administrative Area in Plateau State.

The Church of the Brethren in Nigeria, EYN, also reported that Boko Haram and Fulani militias killed 18 persons in attacks during last year’s Christmas season on four of their communities in Borno State. In March this year, armed men killed 17 Christians in the Zangon Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State. According to media reports, in September, Fulani herdsmen killed 10 Christians in Plateau State, where 27 others were slain in August.

Some Christian leaders said they believed herdsmen’s attacks were driven by a desire to take over Christians’ lands as desertification has made it difficult for them to sustain their herds, while others said that in many cases the attackers were bandit groups that disguised themselves as herdsmen.

On their part, Fulani leaders said the killings were reprisals for previous killings of Fulani herders. According to the NGO, Open Doors, there were 4,118 Christians killed, 3,300 abducted, and 100,000 internally displaced in the country over the years. There were also numerous kidnappings for ransom involving members of clergy. The Aid to the Church in Need, said 23 Catholic priests, sisters, and seminarians had been kidnapped, and there were several killings as well.

Earlier this year, stakeholders in Plateau State, including religious leaders, traditional rulers, and political figures, unanimously agreed and declared that the persistent killings within the state constitute genocide and ethnic cleansing.

NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

As Senate Holds Public Hearing on Alleged Substance Use By Pilots...

The Upper Chamber of the n ational a ssembly will on Thursday in a buja hold a public hearing on the allegation of substance abuse by n igerian pilots while on duty.

The Red Chamber of the federal legislature has expressed deep concern about the reported allegation of substance abuse by pilots in the course of their duty.

Chairman of the Senate Committee on Aviation, Senator AbdulFatai Buhari, who made this known stressed that the decision of the Senate to hold a public hearing on Thursday on the allegation of substance abuse levelled against Nigerian pilots was based on the need to ensure safety of lives of passengers and also in the overall interest of the nation.

Buhari spoke with newsmen in the wake of the controversy surrounding the claim by former Senate Chief Whip, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, at a recent Senate plenary, alleging drug use among some pilots, and called on the authorities to take necessary actions.

“On many occasions, I have stopped to fly because of inadequacy of pilot’s preparation; some of the pilots are not prepared. Some of them use Indian hemp,” Orji had said.

The allegation by the senator drew spontaneous reaction from the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), which challenged the Abia senator to either provide verifiable evidence to support his claims or issue an immediate public retraction and apology.

The association reiterated that Nigerian pilots are subject to strict regulatory, medical, and ethical standards as established by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, in line with global protocols set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation. These include regular and random drug and alcohol testing.

Commenting on the proposed public hearing, ranking Senator Buhari disclosed that Minister

of Aviation, Festus Keyamo and other top players in the industry will be on hand to speak on a number of trending issues in the sector, as no fewer than 60 invitations have been sent out to them. He said: “There is no intention to victimise anybody. We will look out for what we are supposed to that we may not be doing now or we have not done so far. When you are faced with

this kind of scenario, you don’t gloss over the issue. So, we will compile the report and submit it to the Senate.

“All the agencies have been invited; we have over 60 invitations. The minimum time or notice we give in such circumstances is a week, but we made it three weeks this time. The planned public hearing is not about the airline alone; it is about our lives; it is about the industry,” he said.

According to him, there are lots of petitions bordering on activities in the Nigerian aviation industry, some of which have to do with indiscriminate hike in airfare by the industry operators blaming the trend on cost of acquiring aircraft coupled with high lending rates by banks.

He also identified flight cancellations by airline operators with the negative effects on the personal schedules of passengers and other categories of customers of the airlines.

His words: “Secondly is the arbitrary cancellation of flights. It does not give you room to plan your journey; if you do, you will miss that appointment. It puts you under pressure, the only way is you leave your home at 10 am till 10 pm; there will be loss of appointments.

“Sometimes, they blame it on technical problems. So, this has been a source of worry for me as the chairman of the committee on aviation in the Senate”.

He said the public hearing was not meant to witch hunt anybody but to address those core issues that prevalent in the sector and proffer the way forward, adding that there is no plan to sweep them under the carpet.

He also advocated the need for improved public awareness on the rights of passengers when those rights are infringed upon by airlines, just as he identified cancellation of flights as part of the rising concern of many passengers.

On the rising number of states establishing airports when the public perception is that majority of the federal airports are not viable, Buhari said the existence of more airlines, coupled with healthy competition are necessary ingredients to bolster the sector.

FEaturEs Flying Smarter, Striking Harder: Air Marshal Aneke Charts the Course for an Adaptive, Resilient Nigerian Air Force

Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame

When Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke assumed office as the 23rd Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) on October 30, 2025, his message to Nigerians was clear and compelling: the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) will be swift in action, precise in strike, and intelligent in execution. It will be a force built not merely to showcase power, but for purpose, protection, and progress.

That declaration was more than an inaugural statement; it was a philosophy, one that captures the mindset of a leader who sees modern air power more about nuance, less about brute force and more about disciplined precision. In an era where national threats are complex, adaptive, and asymmetric, Air Marshal Aneke’s leadership represents a shift towards purposeful Lethality, the ability to achieve decisive outcomes with intelligence, restraint, and responsibility.

His appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu marks more than a routine succession. It signifies continuity in the transformation of one of Africa’s most dynamic and professional air forces.

Known as a strategist and consummate professional, Air Marshal Aneke combines deep technical expertise with operational brilliance, honed over three decades of service. A graduate of the United States Air War College in Montgomery, Alabama, he also holds advanced degrees in Strategic Studies, International Affairs, and Political Economy and Development Studies.

With over 4,300 flight hours across multiple aircraft types, he brings to the table a blend of experience, composure, and intellect, hallmarks of a true airman-scholar.

At his inauguration, he described his new role as “a tremendous privilege and a solemn duty,” pledging to lead with humility, integrity, and an unyielding commitment to national security.

He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and reaffirmed the NAF’s readiness to defend Nigeria’s airspace while contributing meaningfully to peace, stability, and national transformation.

Under his leadership, he vowed, the NAF will remain “willing, able, and ready” strengthening inter-service cooperation and upholding a tradition of discipline, resilience, and professionalism.

His track record speaks volumes. As Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command, Air Marshal Aneke revitalised the Service’s strategic airlift capabilities, enabling rapid deployment of troops and logistics to key theatres of operation.

He also advanced joint operations and improved intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, which proved instrumental in counter-insurgency operations in the North-East and anti-banditry campaigns in the North-West. Colleagues describe him as “a leader who speaks sparingly but acts decisively” one who values outcomes over rhetoric.

At his Senate confirmation, he articulated his vision succinctly: “I use the word lethal in a professional sense, because a man running from you will not have the time to sit down and plan. The Nigerian Air Force will respond swiftly, strike precisely, and act

intelligently across the full spectrum of military operations.”

This philosophy of intelligent lethality underpins his vision for the modern NAF a force that integrates technology, training, and accountability. For him, every mission must reflect precision, purpose, and protection. His agenda emphasises unmanned aerial systems, data-driven operations, and interoperability among the military services, supported by artificial intelligence and real-time situational awareness.

Yet, Air Marshal Aneke’s vision extends beyond combat. He is repositioning the NAF as a guardian of communities, not just a destroyer of threats. His approach prioritises Civil-Military Relations (CMR) and Quick Impact Projects (QIPs), expanding the Service’s humanitarian footprint through rescue operations, health outreaches, and infrastructure support. These efforts are not mere goodwill gestures; they are strategic tools for strengthening trust between the military and the people it protects. His confirmation by the National Assembly reaffirmed both the principle of civilian oversight and the strategic continuity of ongoing defence reforms.

It also signals confidence that his leadership will consolidate gains in fleet modernisation, local maintenance capacity, and indigenous research and development.

In recent years, the NAF has entered a renaissance phase inducting modern aircraft such as the T-129 ATAK helicopters, A-29 Super Tucanos, and AW-109 Trekker helicopters, while reactivating older fleets through local innovation.

Air Marshal Aneke’s task is to sustain that momentum while deepening a culture of innovation across commands. His leadership ethos is grounded in teamwork and empowerment, with a firm belief that “no service fights alone.”

Calm yet decisive, Air Marshal Aneke embodies quiet confidence, the kind born of competence and clarity of vision. He believes that airpower must not only defend sovereignty but also mirror national aspirations: resilient, adaptive, and humane. His blueprint for a smarter, stronger Air Force rests on four pillars, training, technology, safety, and strategic innovation, the foundations of what he calls a thinking Air Force.

He insists that safety will remain

As he takes command, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke stands as both a symbol of continuity and renewal, a leader rooted in the Air Force’s proud tradition of excellence yet bold enough to redefine its future. His vision of a swift, precise, and intelligent NAF charts a new course for Nigeria’s defence architecture: one that fights smarter, protects better, and serves with distinction

non-negotiable. “No mission is truly successful if lives are lost unnecessarily,” he often says a testament to his commitment to professionalism, maintenance culture, and personnel welfare.

For him, the NAF’s greatest asset is not its aircraft, but its people. His leadership will therefore continue to prioritise morale, mentorship, and the well-being of every airman and woman.

Internationally, Air Marshal Aneke is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s leadership in regional airpower cooperation. Under his watch, partnerships with the United States, France, and African allies will deepen, with a focus on joint training, intelligence sharing, and operational synergy.

At home, his focus remains unwavering: sustain fleet modernisation, enhance readiness, and foster unity within the Force. His blend of empathy and firmness will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of NAF personnel, while reassuring Nigerians that their skies are in capable hands.

As he takes command, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke stands as both a symbol of continuity and renewal, a leader rooted in the Air Force’s proud tradition of excellence yet bold enough to redefine its future. His vision of a swift, precise, and intelligent NAF charts a new course for Nigeria’s defence architecture: one that fights smarter, protects better, and serves with distinction.

Indeed, a new dawn has arrived for Nigeria’s sky guardians, a future where every mission counts, every strike matters, and every action reflects the enduring promise of airpower in the service of peace, progress, and national pride.

•Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame is the Director of Public Relations (DOPRI), Nigerian Air Force.

Dick Cheney, Powerful Ex-US VP Who Pushed for Iraq War, Dies at 84

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Dick Cheney, a driving force behind the US invasion of Iraq in 2003, considered by presidential historians as one of the most powerful vice presidents in US history, has died at the age of 84.

He passed on on Monday from complications of pneumo- nia and cardiac and vascular disease, his family said in a statement on Tuesday.

The Republican - a former Wyoming congressman and Secretary of Defence - was already a major Washington player when then-Texas gov-

ernor George W. Bush chose him to be his running mate in the 2000 presidential race that Bush went on to win, Reuters reported yesterday. As vice president from 2001 to 2009, Cheney fought vigorously for an expansion of the power of the presidency, having felt that it had been eroding since the Watergate scandal that drove his one-time boss Richard Nixon from office. He also expanded the clout of the vice president’s office by putting together a national security team that often served as a power centre of its own within the administration.

Cheney was a strong advocate for the 2003 invasion of Iraq and was among the most outspoken of Bush administration officials warning of the danger from Iraq’s alleged stockpile of weapons of mass destruction. No such weapons were found.

He clashed with several top Bush aides, including Secretar- ies of State Colin Powell and Condoleezza Rice, and defended “enhanced” interrogation techniques of terrorism suspects that included waterboarding and sleep deprivation. Others, including the US Senate Select Committee on Intelligence and

the UN special rapporteur on counter terrorism and human rights, called these techniques “torture.”

His daughter Liz Cheney also became an influential Republican lawmaker, serving in the House of Representatives but losing her seat after opposing Republican President Donald Trump and voting to impeach him in the wake of the January 6, 2021 attack on the Capitol by his supporters. Her father, who agreed with her, said that he would vote for Democratic candidate Kamala Harris in 2024.

“In our nation’s 248 year-

history, there has never been an individual who is a greater threat to our republic than Donald Trump,” said the man who had long been a foe of the left.

Cheney was troubled much of his life by heart problems, suffering the first of a number of heart attacks at age 37. He had a heart transplant in 2012, the Reuters report added.

Cheney and Defence Secretary, Donald Rumsfeld, who had been colleagues in the Nixon White House, were key voices pushing for the March 2003 invasion of Iraq. In the run-up to the war, Cheney suggested there

Dick Cheney

might be links between Iraq and al Qaeda and the September 11, 2001 attacks on the United States. A commission on the 9/11 attacks later discredited this theory.

China, yesterday, vehemently opposed the planned military action in Nigeria by the United States over alleged genocide against Christians, reaffirming its support for the President Bola Tinubu government, as it leads the country through the current turbulence.

Equally, yesterday, the Eu- ropean Union (EU) expressed solidarity with Nigeria, declaring full respect for the country’s sovereignty and reaffirming its commitment to strengthen cooperation in peacebuilding, interfaith dialogue, and human

Justice A. L. Akintola gave the approval on Monday while ruling in an ex-parte application brought by a member of PDP in Oyo State, Mr. Folahan Adelabi.

The court also ordered Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to attend and monitor the national convention for the election of new national officers of theTheparty.tenure of the current leadership of PDP under Ambassador Iliya Damagun comes to an end next month.

The order came barely 72 hours after Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja had given a contrary order to INEC. Omotosho ordered INEC not to participate or give recognition to the outcome of the Ibadan convention of PDP.

However, ruling in the ex-parte motion on Monday, Akintola restrained the defendants in the suit, marked: I / 1336/2025, from acting in any manner whatsoever that would truncate or frustrate “the Guidelines, Timetable and Schedule of Activity and/or disrupting, preventing and or stopping the conduct of the Scheduled National Convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) fixed for November 15 and 16, 2025 at Ibadan to elect officers of the said party

rightsMinisterprotection. of Information, Mohammed Idris, who spoke for Tinubu, expressed confidence that Nigeria will emerge stronger amid religious intolerance allega- tions by President Donald Trump. Idris assured Nigerians that the “inconsistent narrative” behind the US move was being handled with the utmost seriousness that it required.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, said on Tuesday that state involvement in religious persecution was “impossible” in Nigeria under the country’s laws and constitution.

China stressed that Nigeria must be allowed to handle its internal challenges without undue foreign interference, maintaining

at national, pending the hearing and determination of motion on notice.”

The judge issued the interim injunction against the defen- dants, which included PDP, its National Chairman (for himself and the members of the National Working Committee (NWC) and National Executive Committee (NEC) of the party), Rt. Hon. Umaru Ahmadu Fintiri (for himself and members of the PDP National Convention Organising Com- mittee), and INEC as first to fourth defendant, respectively.

The judge said he was mindful to grant the reliefs sought, after “reading the motion ex-parte and affidavit in support deposed to by Folahan Malomo Adelabi and after hearing A. E. Okelue, counsel for the claimant/applicant...”

The plaintiff, who claimed to be aspiring for the position of Deputy National Organising Secretary, had dragged the defendants before the court, seeking an order compelling PDP to conduct the elective national convention as scheduled.

He predicated his case on the grounds that the party had met the statutory requirements for the conduct of the national convention.

Among the reliefs sought was “An order of Interim

that the country must toe the development path suited to its national conditions.

Addressing a press confer- ence in Beijing, spokesperson of China’s Foreign Ministry, Mao Ning, said, being Nigeria’s strategic partner, it was against any country using religion and human rights as an excuse to interfere and threaten the West African nation with sanctions and force.

Ning was answering a ques- tion on Trump’s threat of military action in Nigeria over alleged persecution of Christians.

Trump had at the weekend asked the US Department of War to prepare for “possible action” in Nigeria and urged the Nigerian government to act fast to end

Injunction directing the 1st to 3rd defendants to adhere to and honour the provisions of the aforesaid Guidelines, timetable and Schedule of Activities for the conduct of the National Convention pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice.”

Delivering the ruling, the judge held, “Having carefully considered the claimants/applicant’s motion ex-parte together with the affidavit in support as

mechanical failures on the Itakpe–Warri standard gauge rail line.

Also yesterday, the naira defied sentiments around United States President, Donald Trump’s threat against Nigeria over alleged widespread killings of Christians and rising religious intolerance in the country, as it appreciated at the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM) to close at N1,433.65 per dollar, stronger than the N1,436.34 it closed on Monday, reflecting renewed stability and improved sentiment across the foreign exchange market.

Nigeria also plans to sell $2.3 billion in Eurobonds as early as this week, testing investor appetite for the country’s sovereign debt, Bloomberg

the “killing of Christians” in the country.Describing Nigeria as a “disgraced country”, the US president said, “If the Nigerian government continues to allow the killing of Christians, the USA will immediately stop all aid and assistance to Nigeria, and may very well go into that now disgraced country, ‘guns- a-blazing’, to completely wipe out the Islamic terrorists who are committing these horrible atrocities.

“I am hereby instructing our Department of War to prepare for possible action. If we attack, it will be fast, vicious, and sweet, just like the terrorist thugs attack our cherished Christians! Warning: The Nigerian government better

well as the written address of counsel, this court is satisfied that the claimant/applicant has successfully made out a case for the urgent intervention of this court at this stage.

“As a demonstration of sincerity and transparency, the claimant/applicant has also caused to be filed the motion on notice for orders of interlocutory injunctions in this case.

Continued on page 38

reported. The planned issuance would include 10-year debt and possibly 15- or 30-year securities, pending final approval from the Ministry of Justice.

However, the domestic stock market, yesterday depreciated further by N611.9 billion as investors sustained cautious trading. The market capitalisation that opened for trading at N97.582 trillion, shed 0.63 per cent or N611.9 billion to close yesterday at N96.970 trillion. Equally, the All-Share Index (NGX ASI) was down by 0.72per cent or 1,109.50 points to close at 152,629.61basis points from 153,739.11basis points the market opened for trading this week.

The President’s request for approval for fresh borrowing

move fast!”

Thereafter, Trump declined to rule out airstrikes as well as having US military boots on the ground in the planned intervention.

However, the Nigerian govern- ment repeatedly refuted claims of Christian genocide in the country, with Tinubu stressing, “The characterisation of Nigeria as religiously intolerant does not reflect our national reality, nor does it take into consideration the consistent and sincere efforts of the government to safeguard freedom of religion and beliefs for all Nigerians.”

The Chinese government spokesperson emphasised, “As Nigeria’s comprehensive strategic partner, China firmly supports the Nigerian govern- ment in leading its people on the development path suited to its national conditions.

“China firmly opposes any country using religion and human rights as an excuse to interfere in other countries’ internal affairs, and threatening other countries with sanctions and force.”

EU: We stand by Nigeria, support its sovereignty

EU expressed solidarity with Nigeria, declaring full respect for

was contained in a letter read yesterday by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during plenary.

According to the President, the proposed borrowing was aimed at bridging the funding gap and ensuring full implementation of government programmes and projects outlined in the 2025 fiscal plan.

In the letter, Tinubu stated that the loan request was in line with the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2007, which mandates National Assembly approval for all new borrowings by the federal government.

The letter partly read, “I write to kindly request the approval of the National Assembly to borrow N1,150,000,000,000 from the domestic debt market to close the unfunded deficit gap

the country’s sovereignty and reaffirming its commitment to strengthen cooperation in peacebuilding, interfaith dialogue, and human rights protection.

EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, made the remarks during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Lagos. Mignot, while reacting to recent comments by Trump threatening possible military action against Nigeria, said EU’s position was guided by “long-standing partnership and shared values” with Nigeria, not external influence.

He said, “Our position is one of solidarity with Nigeria. Solidarity with the victims of violence, with the authorities working to protect citizens, and with the Nigerian people who overwhelmingly desire peaceful coexistence beyond ethnic and religious divides.

“We respect Nigeria’s sover- eignty and constitutional com- mitment to religious neutrality.”

Mignot promised that EU was ready to enhance its support in peace, security and defence mat- ters, as well as through dialogue with all stakeholders, including civil society organisations, and traditional and religious leaders. Mignot, while assuring that EU

Continued on page 37

created by the increase in the budget size over and above the prior approved revenue and borrowing plans.

“This request is pursuant to the provisions of Section 44 (1 & 2) of the Fiscal Responsibility Act, which requires the approval of the National Assembly for all new borrowings by the Federal Government of Nigeria.

“The National Assembly passed a N59.9 trillion budget, an increase of N5.25 trillion from the N49.74 trillion proposal by the Executive. This increase created a budget deficit of N14 trillion.”

However, the proposed borrowing approved in the budget was N12.95 trillion,

Continued on page 36

OPENING PANEL AT THE AFRICA FINANCIAL INDUSTRY SUMMIT IN CASABLANCA...

L-R: CEO, Ecobank Group, Jeremy Awori; Group CEO, African Guarantee Fund, Jules Ngankam; Minister of Economy and Finance, Kingdom of Morocco, Nadia Fettah; Chairman, Coronation Group and Access Holdings, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede; and Regional Vice President, Africa, IFC, Ethiopis Tafara, during the opening panel at the Africa Financial Industry Summit (AfIS) in Casablanca on Monday. The session examined strategies for mobilising Africa’s domestic capital to fund continental transformation

FG Moves to Avert Further Strike By Varsity Lecturers

Says it has literally met all ASUU’s demands Alausa meets Tinubu, wants more concessions

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated his government’s resolve that academic activities in nation’s public universities must no longer be disrupted by strikes.

He has, therefore, directed government negotiators to ensure lasting industrial peace in all public tertiary institutions.

Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, relayed the President’s position yesterday,

after briefing Tinubu at the State House, Abuja, about ongoing engagements with the Academic Staff Union of Nigerian Universities (ASUU) and other tertiary-institution unions.

Speaking with reporters

after the meeting, Alausa said the federal government had “literally met” the demands of ASUU and described the union’s recent six-day warning strike as unnecessary. He explained that his visit to the State House was to

Gombe Gov Flags Off Fresh Gratuity Payments to State, LG Retirees

Segun Awofadeji in Gombe

Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State has once again demonstrated his admin- istration’s deep commitment to the welfare of senior citizens with the disbursement of N8.2 billion as gratuity payments to 3,204 retirees from both state and local government services.

Speaking during the flag-off ceremony Tuesday, Governor Inuwa Yahaya said the event was a continuation of his government’s pledge to clear all outstanding gratuities by 2027, ensuring that no retiree is left behind.

“During the last payment exercise in July this year, we made a firm pledge to achieve zero gratuity backlog by 2027. Today’s event is another bold step toward that vision,” the governor stated. He revealed the government is committing N8.2 billion for the payment of accumulated gratuities to state and local government retirees, includ- ing N6.6 billion specifically earmarked for state retirees spanning across 2021, 2022 and 2023, covering a total of 3,204 beneficiaries. The payments also covered a one-year disbursement of

outstanding gratuities for 162 local government retirees across the 11 local government council of the state.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya explained that the next payment phase will cover state retirees for 2024 and 2025, adding that his administration has mapped out a schedule to ensure complete clearance before the end of his tenure.

“By next year, we will clear the gratuities of 2024 and 2025 retirees, and by the first quarter of 2027, every retiree in Gombe State would have been fully paid. No one will be left waiting for their entitlements,”

Troops Thwart Terrorists’ Attack on Military Base in Borno, Kill Scores

Linus Aleke in Abuja

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), Joint Task Force North East, successfully thwarted a coordinated terrorist attack on the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Kangar, located at Mallam Fatori in Borno State, in the early hours of Tuesday, 4 November 2025. The Media Information

Officer of the Joint Task Force, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, stated that the assault, launched at about 0430 hours by Boko Haram/ ISWAP terrorists, involved armed drones and mortar fire targeting the base’s defensive positions.

He praised the troops, reinforced by the main force from the battalion under

Sector 3, for displaying exceptional gallantry and tactical superiority in repelling the attack.

“Despite the initial use of drones and indirect fire, the troops held their ground, engaging the terrorists in a fierce firefight supported by close air support from Nigerien Fighter Ground Attack platforms.

the governor assured. He further outlined that under the state’s phased payment plan, local governments such as Funakaye, Kwami, and Nafada will clear their backlogs in the 2024 financial year, while Akko, Billiri, and Shongom will settle outstanding payments for 2018, and Dukku and Balanga for 2017, with Gombe, Kaltungo, and Yamaltu Deba clearing theirs for 2016.

“extract more concessions” from the President to further stabilise the university system.

According to him: “Mr. President has mandated us that he does not want ASUU to go on strike again, and we are doing everything humanly possible to ensure our students stay in school.

“We have met literally all their requirements. We are back at the negotiation table and in touch with their leadership.

This will be resolved.”

The Minister faulted claims that the government was neglecting other tertiary- institution unions or that a four-week ultimatum had been issued by the unions and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).

“There is no ultimatum. Everything is calm. This is a listening government,” he stated, adding that he spoke to the leadership of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) on

Monday.

Alausa explained that the government has collapsed multiple negotiating teams into a single panel led by Alhaji Yayale Ahmed to ensure a coordinated ap- proach across universities, polytechnics and colleges of education, covering both academic and non-academic staff.

He also listed key issues already addressed to include payment of arrears and earned academic allowances, while highlighting the launch of a federal transparency dashboard to track tertiary-institution finances and performance.

The Minister maintained that Tinubu remains “deeply committed” to education and human capital development, adding that the administration will continue to make concessions to secure uninterrupted learning in Nigeria’s public universities.

House in Rowdy Session Over Probe of Lagos International Trade Fair Complex

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja Lawmakers on Tuesday clashed on the floor of the House of Representatives over which committee has the proper mandate to investigate the alleged irregular allocation and management of the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex.

Hon. Ademorin Kuye had in a motion of urgent public importance called for an investigation into the alleged illegal sale of government assets at the

Trade Fair Complex.

Kuye, who is also the Chairman of the House Committee on Public Asset, proposed that his committee be given the mandate to carry out the investigation.

It was at this point that the Chairman, House Committee on Rules and Business, Hon. Francis Waive raised a Point of Order that the motion in question falls under the jurisdiction of the House Committee on Commerce.

However, Waive’s Point of Order led heated debate

as lawmakers argued over which Committee should chair the investigation between the Committee on Public Assets and Commerce. In his intervention, the Chairman, House Committee on Navy, Hon. Yusuf Gagdi raised a point of order citing Order 109, Rule 1 & 2 of the House Standing Rules, which, he said, gives the Committee on Public Assets jurisdiction over all govern- ment property, including those situated within and outside the country.

HIGH LEVEL BUSINESS FORUM ON MOBILISING THE PRIVATE SECTOR FOR AFRICA’S ECONOMIC GROWTH...

L-R: President, National Association of Small and Medium Enterprises, Dr. Abdulrashid Yerima; Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Folashade Ambrose-Medebem; President, NEPAD Business Group Nigeria (NBGN), Bashorun J. K.

National Coordinator/CEO, NEPAD Nigeria, Jabiru Abdullahi; Vice Chairman, NBGN, Dr. Abiola Dosumu; and Director, NBGN, Dr. Toyin Sani, during the High-Level Business Forum on Mobilising the Private Sector for Africa’s Economic Growth and Development organised by NEPAD Business Group Nigeria (NBGN) in Lagos… weekend

FG Reviews Security Architecture, Orders Inspection, Training, Learning for Police

Set-up has nothing to do with recent security situation in the country, says Abiodun

Segun James

The federal government set up National Economic Council Committee on the overhaul of security training institutions in the country, the chairman of the committee, Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, disclosed yesterday.

Equally, the co-chairman of the committee, and Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, clarified that the setting up of the committee preceded the recent security situation in the country.

The committee was made up seven governors, compris- ing the governors of Enugu, Ogun, Akwa Ibom, Taraba, Nasarawa, Kaduna, and Zamfara states, with former Inspector General of Police, Alhaji Usman Alkali, as secretary.

It was given 30 days to report on the status of all security training institutions in the country, especially the

police, and to report back to the National Executive Council.

The committee, which was divided into two – one for the north and the other for the southern part of the country – with Mbah as chairman, yesterday started their inspection from Lagos, where they visited Police College, Ikeja.

During the visit, they were faced with the stark reality at the college, where decay and dilapidated infrastructure were apparent.

They were told by the commandant of the college that most infrastructure in the college had not been updated since the college was established in 1949.

The commandant, Assistant Inspector General of Police, Mrs Omolara Oloruntola, said most of the structures in the college had almost collapsed, and there was no electricity and water system in the school, a situation which

made it hard for a conducive learning environment to thrive.

Speaking during the in- spection, Mbah said, “What we have seen here today is just consistent with what the president has already recognised, when he came to the council chamber on the 23rd of October.

“He personally approved the inauguration of this ad hoc committee on the overhaul of all the training institutions of the police and the Nigerian security and civil defense corps.“And so the president recognising that there is need for bold and urgent steps to

be taken in order to restore the pride, the professionalism and the confidence of our men and women in the security space.“And that’s what we have just come here to validate. This committee has a mandate to report back in 30 days.”

The governor added,

“As you already know, we constituted ourselves to two teams. We have the team that is visiting all the training institutions in the north, led by the governor of Nasarawa State, His Excellency Abdullahi Sule. And we are now visiting all the training institutions in the south.

Politically Exposed Persons Exploit Gaps in Justice System, Says EFCC Chairman

Wale Igbintade

The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has lamented that the slow pace of trials involving politically exposed persons continues to frustrate Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts, warning that justice delayed is effectively justice denied.

Zulum Shares 63 Patrol Vehicles to Combat Criminality in Maiduguri

Michael Olugbode in Abuja Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, has handed over 63 patrol vehicles to security agencies and the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) operating in Maiduguri and its environs.

Out of the 63 vehicles, 30 were given to the 10 different sectors of CJTF, 16 to Rapid Response and Anti-Social Vices, 10 to paramilitary organisations, six to hunters, and one to the National Agency for

Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP).

According to a statement on Tuesday by the governor’s spokesman, Dauda Iliya, the distribution aims to enhance the mobility and response capacity of the police, other security outfits, and the civilian joint task force in tackling security threats, such as armed gangs and other forms of criminality within the state capital and its surrounding areas.

Iliya stated that the latest donation was one of the nu-

merous vehicle distributions by the Zulum administration since 2019, all of which were targeted at strengthening the security architecture and safeguarding the lives and property of citizens.

Zulum, while presenting the vehicles, reiterated his government’s commitment to providing continuous logistics support to security forces.

He emphasised that security was part of the cardinal priorities of his administration.

Speaking at the CanadaNigeria Legal Exchange Forum in Toronto, Olukoyede said some influential defendants have mastered the art of exploiting loopholes in the criminal justice system to frustrate their prosecution, thereby weakening the credibility of the justice process and eroding public confidence.

“A major challenge is the slow pace of trial involving some politically exposed persons who are adept at exploiting gaps in the criminal justice system to

frustrate their prosecution,” he said.

“This point was made recently at a workshop for judges and justices in Abuja, where it was emphasised that justice delayed is justice denied.”

Olukoyede, who has served in multiple capacities within the EFCC before his appoint- ment as Executive Chairman, said the Commission’s fight against corruption has never been easy, as entrenched interests continually push back to protect illicit gains.

He described the fight

against corruption as “never rosy anywhere in the world,” but insisted the Nigerian context presents peculiar challenges due to procedural delays, interlocutory injunctions, and systemic weaknesses that make swift justice almost impossible. According to him, prolonged trials allow corruption suspects to enjoy their ill-gotten wealth, influence investigations, or manipulate legal processes, thereby undermining deterrence and emboldening others to engage in financial crimes.

Don Charges Varsities to Collaborate with Industries, Govt to Address National Problems

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

Nigerian universities have been charged to collaborate with industries, governments and communities to address nationalSpeaking,problems. the 19th President of the Nigerian Academy of Science, Prof. Ekanem Ikpi Braide said there is a need for stakeholders to work together with academia (researchers)

to feed policy to numerous challenges facing the country.

Prof. Braide noted this at the 20th convocation lecture of the Bowen University, Iwo, in Osun State, titled, The Nigerian University of the 21st Century: Engine of knowledge, Driver of Development, at the weekend

She acknowledged the recent significant attempts at improving the collabora-

tion between the researchers and industries that will be beneficial to the country. According to her, “As driver of development, research carried out in the university must feed policy and practice. Stakeholders including aca- demia (researchers), industry, government and communities must work together in a quadruple helix manner to address national problems.

BUSYBEE EVENTS BUSINESS SUMMIT 9.0...

L-R: Head of Corporate Sponsorships, BusyBee Events, Kehinde Anifowoshe; Head of Budgets, Ibidunni Layade; Head of Communications and Marketing, Isabella Adedeji; Convener, BusyBee Events Business Summit, Bisi Sotunde; Chairman, Planning Committee, Adeola Sessi-Traore; and Head of Delegate Experience, Convener and Planning Committee, Nneoma Jide Ebelendu, at a press briefing heralding the BusyBee Events Business Summit 9.0 in Lagos… yesterday

Lack of National Cohesion Worsening Nigeria’s Security Crisis, Says Dambazau

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

Cites weak governance, corruption, poor coordination among security agencies Wants security architecture redesigned, tweaking of Buhari’s strategy Says US looking for opportunity to establish military base in Nigeria and other violent offenders engaged in armed robbery, murder, and ritual killings.

Former Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau (rtd), has blamed the country’s worsening security crisis on lack of national cohesion, which found expression in weak governance, corruption, and poor coordination among

securityDambazauagencies.spoke in Abuja, yesterday, where he presented a keynote address on “Nigeria’s Security Challenges and the Quest for National Cohesion: A New Paradigm for Internal Security Architecture and Governance,” at the seventh annual public lecture of the

“Just Friends Club of Nigeria” (JFCN).

Dambazau, a former Minister of Interior between 2015 and 2019, also lamented that the country had been buffeted by complex security challenges that demanded an adaptive and internal security architecture, saying the current architecture

and strategy need to be recalibrated

According to him, foremost among the security challenges are threats to the safety of life and property, posed by the activities of groups like Boko Haram, bandits, IPOB, Yoruba Nation agitators, kidnappers, militants, urban criminal gangs,

Wunti Al-Khair Foundation Bridges Education, Employment Gaps with Skills for Employability Initiative

Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi

The Wunti Al-Khair Foundation (WAKF) has hosted the 2025 edition of its flagship Skills for Employability Program, bringing together more than 600 young people from across Bauchi State for a full day of learning, inspiration, and empowerment. The program held yesterday under the theme “Beyond Degrees: Building Employability and Entrepreneurship Skills for a Changing World,” aimed to equip participants with practi- cal tools to thrive in today’s dynamic job market while

promoting entrepreneurship as a pathway to sustainable livelihoods.

In his keynote address, Mallam Murtala Muhammad Alamai, director of the Centre for Career Services at the Federal Polytechnic Bauchi, emphasised the need for adaptable skills, innovative thinking, and entre- preneurial courage to succeed in an ever-changing economy. Earlier, the Director of Programs at Wunti Al-Khair Foundation, Mr. Ango Mustapha, said the initiative seeks to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and employability.

“The Skills for Employ- ability Program is not just a conference. It’s a movement designed to prepare our youth for the realities of the modern workforce and inspire them to create opportunities where none exist,” he stated.

Mr. Mustapha added that the program reflects the foundation’s commitment to empowering young people with the skills, networks, and mindset needed to navigate the evolving world of work and enterprise.

The event featured multiple expert sessions and interac- tive panels led by seasoned professionals, including Gbade

Alkebulan, who delivered a session on “Your Voice, Your Brand: Building Employability Through Communication.”

Other speakers included Elijah Moses, Head of Partnerships at RLabs Nigeria, who spoke on “Going GloCal: How to Search and Sort Opportunities,” and Seun Onarinde, Executive Director of Young Leaders Network, who shared insights on “Volunteering as a Pathway to Gainful Employment.”

He said their activities had instilled a pervasive sense of fear across homes, markets, places of worship, and farm- lands, adding that “freedom from fear” has been eroded by the violent, non-state actors.

The former army chief lamented that in addition to physical threats, Nigeria faced significant human security challenges that undermined its survival and livelihoods, citing issues such as poverty, unemployment, hunger, dis- ease, and illiteracy as having denied many citizens their “freedom from want”.

He said Nigeria continued to rank low in the UN Human Development Index, stressing that apart from deprivation- induced insecurity, emerging security threats have evolved from technological advance- ments, particularly in the field of ICT.

Driven by porous borders,

regional instability, and the proliferation of illicit arms production, Dambazau lamented that the widespread availability of unregistered and unmarked weapons had fuelled insurgency, banditry, armed robbery and general insecurity across the country.

Considering the multifaceted factors behind insecurity, he argued that the menace could not be surmounted by military action alone.

According to him, “We can’t shoot our way out of insecurity. Bullets and boots alone won’t solve problems rooted in poverty, unemployment, and exclusion. Real security is people-centred — it is about freedom from fear and freedom from want.

“The roots of banditry lie in unemployment, hunger, lack of education, and weak local administration. The military has been overstretched because the police, who should handle internal security, are underde- veloped and politicised.”

Daniel Hails Tinubu over Establishment of Naval Base in Ogun New Military Spokesperson, Uba, Assumes Duty, Pledges to Counter False Narratives

James Sowole in Abeokuta

Former governor of Ogun State and the Senator representing Ogun East, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, has hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the establishment of a naval base and dockyard in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area of the state, saying the project is a

significant asset that would provide numerous economic benefits and enhance national security.Daniel, who is the Chairman, Senate Committee on Navy, also commended the president for providing tremendous support for the resuscitation of the Olokola deep-seaport project in the local government which, according

to him, will impact positively on the state’s economy.

He spoke during the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Otunba Gbenga Daniel (BATOGD) Mid-term Community As- sessment and Review Tour to Abigi in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, held to evaluate progress, engage with constituents and inspect community projects.

The newly appointed Director of Defence Information (DDI), Brigadier General Samaila Mohammed Uba, has officially assumed duty at the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) after a colourful but brief handover ceremony.

General Uba, who succeeded Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, yesterday in Abuja, pledged to counter terrorists’ false narratives and misinformation, reaffirming military’s commitment to truth and transparency

in its public communication.

He said the Directorate of Defence Information, under his leadership, would focus on four strategic priorities — unity of purpose, timeliness and transparency, digital innovation, and effective media relations.

Describing himself as the historian of the Nigerian Armed Forces, Uba stated that one of his core tasks was to ensure that the sacrifices of military heroes were recorded truthfully, celebrated proudly, and remembered eternally.

“Presently, we operate in a

landscape where misinformation can erode trust in seconds. Adversaries exploit vulnerabilities in our information ecosystem, seeking to divide us. Let me be clear: we will not cede ground.

“Through rigorous factchecking, public education campaigns, and partnerships with the media and cybersecurity experts, we will fortify Nigeria’s defence information architecture. I assure the Chief of Defence Staff that I will uphold the highest standards of integrity and innovation in this role,” he said.

AnnuAl RetReAt of edo College ’92 Committee of fRiends...

L–R: Eseosa Ekhaguere, Godspower Epete, Peter Momodu, Osazuwa Morgan, Eugene Asemota, Jimmy Oyan, Owen Asaolu, Sumuila Salami, Micheal Morgan, Micheal Akhidenor, Kazeem Bello-Osagie, Salvador Osayogie, Victor Gbajumo, Eseosa Iyamu, and Patrick Ikeh at the Annual Retreat of Edo College ’92 Committee of Friends, held recently at the Hyatt Hotel, Nairobi, Kenya...recently

T I nubu Seek S Sen AT e ApprovA l for f re SH n 1.15 T

resulting in an unfunded deficit of N1.1 trillion.

“It is therefore necessary to increase the domestic borrowing limit in the 2025 budget by N1.147 trillion to close this gap.”

Following the announcement, Akpabio referred the request to the Senate Committee on Local and Foreign Debt, chaired by Senator Aliyu Wammako (APC, Sokoto North), with a directive to report back within one week for further legislative action.

Meanwhile, the naira yesterday appreciated at the NFEM, closing at N1,433.65 per dollar, stronger than N1,436.34 to a dollar it closed the previous day.

At the parallel market, the local currency traded flat at N1,440 per dollar, unchanged from Monday’s rate.

This comes despite recent geopolitical noise, including comments by Trump regarding Nigeria’s internal security challenges, the federal government has maintained its focus on economic and financial objectives.

According to Bloomberg, Nigeria plans to sell $2.3 billion in Eurobonds as early as this week, testing investor appetite for the country’s sovereign debt. The planned issuance will include 10-year debt and possibly 15- or 30year securities, pending final approval from the Ministry of Justice.

The National Assembly had earlier approved a plan to raise $2.3 billion in foreign debt before the end of the year, alongside $500 million in sukuk (Islamic) notes, as part of the government’s 2025 financing strategy to deepen external reserves and support infrastructure financing.

Speaking on developments in the market, Head of Financial Institutions Ratings at Agusto & Co., Mr. Ayokunle Olubunmi, said the rebound in Eurobond prices signals renewed investor interest ahead of the upcoming issuance.

“The Eurobond market has rebounded from the declines

recorded in the early hours of Monday. Nigeria is issuing Eurobonds, so what we are seeing is investors taking early positions in anticipation of the new instruments, which reflects continued confidence in the country’s external debt market,” he added.

In the meantime, Akpabio during plenary at the Senate, acknowledged the protests car- ried out by local contractors which led to the closure of all major entrances to the National Assembly that part of the loan would be used to settle them.

Hundreds of members of the All Indigenous Contractors Association of Nigeria (AICAN) yesterday stormed the National Assembly in Abuja to protest the federal government’s alleged failure to pay billions of naira owed to local contractors for completed projects.

The contractors, who marched through the streets carrying placards and chanting solidarity songs, accused the government of deliberately neglecting Nigerian-owned firms while prioritising payments to foreign contractors.

They said the development has crippled many indigenous businesses, forced several into bankruptcy, and worsened unemployment in the country.

According to the protesters, the federal government was indebted to local contractors to the tune of about N760 billion, representing verified projects already executed and certified across various ministries, departments, and agencies.AICAN leaders, however, claimed the total outstanding for completed capital projects could exceed N4 trillion, when other pending obligations are included.

They told journalists during the protest that the government’s continued delay in settling verified debts had pushed many contractors to the brink of collapse.

They lamented that despite several assurances from the Ministry of Finance and the Budget Office, the promised

payments have not materialised.

They said, “Government officials keep saying that our payments have been approved and warrants issued, but there is no cash backing.

“What that means is that the payment exists only on paper while contractors are left to suffer.

“We borrowed money from banks to execute these projects, and today, the same banks are taking over our properties because we cannot repay our loans.”

AICAN maintained that it would no longer accept new contracts without upfront mobilisation payments, stressing that previous experiences had shown that completed projects often linger unpaid for years.

The association also called on Tinubu to personally intervene in the matter and ensure that future projects are properly cash-backed to avoid recurring debt traps.

The contractors’ action followed months of frustration over what they described as the government’s “deliberate insensitivity” to their plight.

Despite claims by officials that about N3.1 trillion had been approved for contractor payments, AICAN insists that many of its members remain unpaid.

Last month, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, facilitated a meeting between the association and the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, in an effort to resolve theHowever,impasse.the contractors said no tangible outcome followed.

The protesters urged lawmakers to intensify oversight of the capital budget and ensure that payment processes for verified projects are transparent and timely.

Senate Sets Up Panel to Probe Multi-Billion Dollars Railway Projects Under Buhari

The Senate yesterday, resolved to conduct a full-scale investigation into the railway

projects executed under former President Muhammadu Buhari, following persistent derailments, vandalism, and mechanical failures on the Itakpe–Warri standard gauge rail line.

The red chamber also set up an ad hoc committee to carry out a comprehensive probe into the contracts, funding, and execution of all railway projects undertaken during the Buhari era and to submit a report within six weeks.

Members of the panel include Senators Adams Oshiomhole, Huseini Babaginda, Adamu Aliero, Wasiu Eshinlokun, Osita Ngwu, Adeola Solomon, Ibrahim Dankwabo, Ireti Kingibe, and Sahabi Yau.

The Senate’s resolution followed a motion sponsored by Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central), who raised alarm over the “disturbing and persistent technical breakdowns” on the Itakpe–Warri rail corridor, one of the flagship projects of the Buhari administration.

Dafinone said the line, commissioned with great national fanfare just a few years ago, had become a source of embarrassment and danger due to frequent derailments and service disruptions.

He disclosed that the line recorded no fewer than 10 derailments and several breakdowns between 2023 and 2025, incidents that have endangered passengers and eroded public confidence in Nigeria’s rail system.

He therefore urged the Federal Ministry of Transportation and the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) to immediately undertake an independent technical assess- ment of the line to determine the root causes of the failures and implement corrective measures.

Dafinone further recommended that the NRC increase operational capacity, deploy more coaches, and ensure at least two passenger services daily in each direction between Ujevwu and Itakpe.

Supporting the motion,

Senator Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central) described the situation as a national embarrassment.

Ningi said, “The government borrowed billions of dollars to construct these lines, yet they are collapsing barely two years after completion.

“This is not about politics. We must hold those responsible accountable for negligence and mismanagement.”

Senator Patrick Ndubueze (Imo North) called for a complete reorganisation of the NRC, saying the corporation “is no longer fit for purpose.”

He argued that the decay in the rail system was placing undue pressure on Nigerian roads.

“Our highways are failing because freight that should move by rail is transported by road. Fixing the railways will save lives and preserve our roads,” he said.

Senator Solomon Adeola (Ogun West) also backed the motion, urging a transparent probe into how much was borrowed and spent on the projects, the contractors involved, and whether due process was followed.

“We must find out whether this is a case of poor workman- ship, corruption, or lack of supervision,” he said.

Senator Babangida Hussaini (Jigawa North-West) blamed Nigeria’s chronic project failures on poor conception and maintenance culture.

“The same Chinese firms that built the Mombasa–Nairobi railway in Kenya delivered a functional system that still works efficiently. Why is ours collapsing within months?” he asked.

However, the debate took a dramatic turn when Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who presided over the session, delivered a fiery address accusing those who mismanaged the railway projects under Buhari of gross incompetence and deceit.

Akpabio said it was “shocking” that some of the same individuals responsible for the failures were now warming up

to take power from Tinubu in 2027, despite having left behind what he described as “a trail of waste, debt, and deception.”

Akpabio said, “You’ll be shocked that the same people, the same people that did this were lying. They are the same people now seeking to take back the government by revolution.

“The same characters, without remorse, without answering questions, are the ones now seeking to take back the government after leaving this kind of mess behind, with the amount of indebtedness they caused the country.”

Visibly angered, Akpabio questioned how a project that cost “trillions of naira” could begin to fail within months of commissioning.

He said, “You spend trillions on rail lines, you commission them, and within one year you have all sorts of mechanical faults.

“We must find out whether these were truly new lines or refurbished scraps bought and repainted as new. Nigerians deserve to know the truth,” he said.

The Senate President drew comparisons with similar projects abroad built by the same contractors that have remained functional for decades, describing Nigeria’s failures as “a tragic symbol of corruption and poor oversight.”

He also clarified that most of the derailments recorded in 2023 and 2024 occurred before the Tinubu administration took office, saying it would be unfair to blame the current government for inherited problems.

“These derailments started before we came. This government inherited a failed system,” Akpabio said.

At the end of the debate, the Senate adopted far-reaching resolutions mandating the Ministry of Transportation and the NRC to immediately repair the Itakpe–Warri rail line, improve safety measures, and deploy additional rolling stock to restore full operations.

END POLIO IMMUNISATION PROGRAMME ORGANISED BY ROTARY CLUB OF IKEJA...

L-R: Health Education Officer, Isolo LCDA, Akande Aminat; Officer in Charge, LSDPC PHC, Nurse Oso Kuburat; Rotary Club of

Akanni; President, Rotary Club of Ikeja, Rotarian Lanre Lawal; Chief of Staff to the District Governor, District 9111/District Polio Chair/Past Assistant Governor, Busola Satuyi; Apex Nurse, Isolo LCDA, Bola Lawal; and Health Education Officer, Isolo LCDA, Adeyeye Testimony, at the End Polio Immunisation Programme organised by the Rotary Club of Ikeja at Isolo Community Centre, Rotary Road, Isolo, Lagos… recently

C HI n A Reje CTS Pl A nne D US M I l ITARY A CTI on, e U S AYS I T STA n DS b Y nI ge RIA would continue to implement several peacebuilding initiatives across the country to promote peaceful coexistence, said, “We also support programmes on de- radicalisation, demobilisation, and re-integration of ex-members of non-state armed groups in the North-east.”

He assured of EU’s continued commitment to the protection of all communities, especially the minorities, with the freedom of religion and belief, acknowledg- ing that while Nigeria faces challenges in human rights and freedom of religion, its legal and institutional framework provides for fundamental freedoms.

Mignot said, “The situation is not perfect, as in any country, but there exists a constitutional basis for the protection of human rights. It is up to Nigerian authorities and society as a whole to uphold and strengthen this environment of peaceful coexistence.”

The envoy stressed that EU worked closely with civil society organisations on projects promoting interfaith dialogue and good relations among religious communities. He stated that EU’s support was non-discriminatory, covering all victims of violence, irrespective of the motives.

Mignot said EU’s engagement with Nigeria remained steady and predictable, adding that the cooperation between both parties is not driven by what others do but by “shared inter- est in a stable, prosperous, and democratic Nigeria”.

Mignot disclosed that a peace, security and defence dialogue between Nigeria and EU was expected soon as part of efforts to deepen strategic cooperation.

He emphasised that EU’s guiding principle was to help Nigeria reinforce stability and prosperity, stressing that the country’s future “lies firmly in the hands of Nigerians themselves”.

Idris assures ‘inconsistent narrative’ will be handled with utmost seriousness

Idris, who spoke to newsmen at State House, Abuja, yesterday, after a routine meeting with the president, assured that Tinubu remained calm, deploying a multi-pronged approach to addressing concerns raised by

Washington, while meticulously reviewing all dimensions of the issue.

According to the minister, the Nigerian government is giving preference to constructive engagement over inflammatory rhetoric.

He stated that coordinated efforts were underway across relevant government agencies, while new channels of communication had been opened with international organisations to deepen understanding of Nigeria’s ongoing reforms and futureIdrisstrategies. said, “The initiative is designed to address both domestic and international concerns through transpar- ency, sustained dialogue, and demonstrable commitment to tolerance, security, and national cohesion.

“Of course, the issue of the US threats also came up and we discussed that extensively with Mr President and Mr President is calm. He is looking at the whole situation and he is looking for ways and means of ensuring that the international community understands what Nigeria has been“Onlydoing.two weeks ago, Mr President in his own desire to rekindle the security architecture of the country reinvigorated the hierarchy of the armed forces, a new Chief of Defence Staff and other service chiefs were appointed. These were all the issues that came out before the US concerns. So, that tells you that Mr President has been working assiduously to ensure that Nigeria is a country that remains safer for all Nigerians to live in.”

Idris added, “We are looking at all the issues and we don’t want to overheat discussions, but work is ongoing and we have also opened channels of communication for international organisations to understand what Nigeria has been doing better and what we intend to further do to ensure that whatever concerns that there are either domestically here or from the international communities are beingTheanswered.” minister stressed that Tinubu had continued to engage religious leaders across the

country in sustained dialogue aimed at strengthening unity and understanding among Nigerians of all faiths.

He stated, “It is a multiple approach, discussions with the leadership of religious groups is an ongoing effort and Mr President has been meeting with them and he will continue to do so, they are all Nigerians and he is leading them. They are of course an important stakeholder in the Nigerian project.”

Idris reaffirmed that the president will continue to engage actively with the international community, not only the US, but also regional and continental bodies to strengthen cooperation in addressing security challenges and correcting misconceptions about Nigeria.

He said the government remained determined to eliminate criminal elements whose actions had contributed to misleading global narratives about the country.

The minister stated, “Mr President will continue to engage with the international community not just the US, everyone, the regional bodies ...the continental bodies and everyone that we think has a role to play in ensuring that Nigeria succeeds in ridding this country of these criminal elements that are helping the world to drive this narrative to give Nigeria a very bad name.

“We know that this is not who we are as a country, so for us to be characterised as a country that is not tolerant when it comes to religion is not accurate, this is absolutely false.”

He called on Nigerians to look beyond divisive rhetoric and unite against extremists seeking to sow discord, warning that those driving false religious narratives are attempting to undermine the country’s peace and cohesion. Idris explained that Nigeria’s diversity was a source of strength rather than division.

He said, “Nigeria has Muslims and Christians and even those who even do not believe in any of these religions and our constitution guarantees everyone should practice their faith without hindrance and Mr President is going to respect that to the letter.

“Again, yes, we have these

security challenges but nowhere has there been any decision to favour one religion or the other or to inflict violence over one religion. What has happened is that we have these extremists that are driving this narrative and their desired outcome is to see that this country is divided.

“We want to caution Nigerians to look deeper. This is a time for us to reflect on our nationhood to reflect on our unity, this is not the time for division, this is not the time for rhetoric, it is the time for nation building. It is the time for calling for everyone to come together so that we can continue to have the Nigeria of our dreams.

“Mr President is calm, he’s taking this of course very seri- ously and all those that should look at this issue are looking at them with all the responsibilities and the depth that it requires so that at the end of the day we will come out of this. We believe that we will come out of this very strongly.”

Tuggar to Trump: Statebacked religious persecution impossible under constitution

Tuggar said Tuesday that state involvement in religious persecution was “impossible” in Nigeria under the country’s laws and constitution.

He was responding to a question about US President Donald Trump’s warning of possible “fast” military action in Nigeria if it failed to crack down on the killing of Christians by Islamist insurgents.

Speaking in Berlin alongside his German counterpart, Johann Wadephul, Tuggar pointed to Nigeria’s “constitutional com- mitment to religious freedom and rule of law,” a Reuters report“Thissaid. is what shows that it’s impossible for there to be a religious persecution that can be supported in any way, shape or form by the government of Nigeria at any level, be it federal, be it regional, be it local, it’s impossible,” he said.

The Nigerian presidency had said it would welcome US help in fighting Islamist insurgents as long as the country’s territorial integrity was respected.

In Northern Kaduna, one of the northwestern states most affected by violence against Muslims and Christians, leading Muslim cleric Ahmed Gumi said Trump’s comments risked further inflaming tensions in the country.

Gumi, who had faced criticism for negotiating with armed groups, said the government should work to reduce poverty in northern Nigeria to help end insecurity.

APC’s inept foreign policies to blame for current situation, says Olawepo-Hashim

A former presidential candi- date, Olawepo-Hashim, said the responsibility for the ongoing diplomatic crisis between Nigeria and the US over alleged Christian genocide rested squarely with the administration of Tinubu, not with US Olawepo-Hashimpresident.said the diplomatic standoff reflected the Tinubu government’s “reckless and self-serving foreign policy,” which prioritised personal, politi- cal, and pecuniary interests over Nigeria’s national security and global reputation.

He stated, “It is deeply trou- bling that, as we speak, Nigeria does not have ambassadors in many key countries. The bi-national and bilateral commissions established to address pressing concerns on security and trade have collapsed for over a decade.”

He lamented that after “para- lysing” institutional mechanisms for diplomacy, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) government had resorted to using “a motley crowd of poorly informed operatives and international outlaws pushing shady interests incoherently and dangerously.” He described this as “a Janjaweed foreign policy, which is truly disgraceful and embarrassing”.

Recalling Nigeria’s proud legacy as a stabilising force in Africa, he stated that the country once stood tall as a reliable partner that brought peace to West Africa through ECOMOG and played leading roles in peacekeeping operations in Congo, Darfur, Liberia, and Sierra Leone. “Our current predicament is both tragic and

disgraceful,” he lamented.

The politician faulted attempts to downplay reports of targeted killings, saying such arguments are “fundamentally faulty”. He further alleged that grave human rights violations were being committed daily by sup- porters of the ruling APC while the administration looked away. He warned that open threats by party loyalists against groups of voters suspected of not support- ing Tinubu in 2027 amounted to international crimes under the Rome Statute, which Nigeria had domesticated.

“These threats are directed at an ethnic group that predomi- nantly practices one faith,” he said.

“Such acts cannot be dismissed as internal affairs when Nigeria is a signatory to many international human rights conventions,” he added.

Olawepo-Hashim called for an urgent national dialogue to chart a new course for Nigeria’s national security and foreign policy“Genuinearchitecture.patriots must begin consultations to rebuild a framework that ensures peace, stability, and the preservation of Nigeria’s sovereignty,” he said.

Afenifere: Trump’s threat aims at forcing Tinubu to negotiate Pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, stated that the recent threat by Trump to invade Nigeria to “fight” ter- rorists was a decoy to mask his displeasure and to force Tinubu to negotiate with him. By sounding harsh, Afenifere said Trump hoped to get Tinubu to negotiate with him with a view to having more inroad into Nigeria’s economy and to possibly force Nigeria to buy more goods, especially weapons, from America.

Its factional National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, in a statement issued Tuesday, maintained that the claim that the government was complicit in terrorists’ killing of Christians in Nigeria was not only unfounded, but an attempt to “give a dog a bad name to have a justification to kill it”.

DELEGATION OF IHK GIESSEN-FRIEDBERG CHAMBERS’ VISIT TO MINISTER OF EDUCATION...

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, IHK Giessen-Friedberg Chambers of Commerce in Germany, Dr. Mathis Leder; former Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Lai Mohammed; and Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, during the delegation of IHK Giessen-Friedberg Chambers of Commerce in Germany’s visit to the Minister of Education on dual vocational training in Abuja, yesterday

Ib ADA n CourT Approve S Con D u CT of p D p Conven TI on, o r D er S I ne C T o Mon IT or

“Accordingly, this court finds merit in the claimant/ applicant’s motion ex-parte. The same succeeds and it’s hereby ordered as prayed on the claimant/ applicant’s motion ex-parte dated November 3, 2025 and filed on the same date in this case.”

A Certified True Copy (CTC) of the enrolled order of the court signed by Mrs. S. O. Hammed and sighted by THISDAY stated that the court, in addition, clarified that “the interim orders of injunction sought are hereby granted as prayed pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice for orders of Interlocutory Injunctions already filed in this case.”

Consequently, the court ordered the PDP National Working Committee (NWC), National Executive Committee (NEC), and National Convention Organising Committee to “honour the provision of the aforesaid Guidelines, Timetable and Schedule Activities for the conduct of the PDP National Convention pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice.”

The court also ordered INEC, as fourth defendant, “its servants, agents, officers, and or privies to attend, monitor and or observe the Elective National Convention of the 1st Defendants scheduled for Ibadan, Oyo State on the 15th and 16th of November 2025, pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice.”

THISDAY learnt that PDP, its National Convention Organising Committee, and INEC had already been served with the court order.

Meanwhile, hearing in the substantive case was fixed for November 10.

PDP Petitions IGP over Alleged Takeover of Secretariat

In another development, PDP petitioned the Inspector General of Police (IGP), calling

for an investigation into what it described as a violent invasion of its National Secretariat in Abuja by suspended party officials and their supporters.

The party said the incident, which reportedly left several staff members injured, was led by the suspended national secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, and aided by some security operatives.

A copy of the petition obtained by THISDAY last night was signed by Damagum.

It explained that the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), at its 608th meeting, had earlier suspended four national officers, including Anyanwu, over alleged antiparty activities and referred them to the disciplinary committee.

According to the petition, the invasion occurred on Monday, November 3, 2025.

It stated, “The suspended National Secretary allegedly led a group of supporters to the National Secretariat, forced their way into offices, and disrupted official activities.

“The thugs broke into offices, unleashed violence, attacked staff, fired tear gas, wounded our staff, assaulted journalists, and disrupted activities in our National Secretariat.”

The petition also claimed that a female staff, who inhaled tear gas during the commotion, fainted and was later revived, while three others – Mr. Terna Tergba, Mrs. Cecilia Ukwayi, and Mr. Innocent Ezekiel –sustained injuries and were receiving treatment.

“The intruders attempted to install a member of the National Working Committee as acting National Chairman,” the party further alleged, describing the incident as a dangerous prec- edent for internal democracy.

It said, “The role of the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, regarding this incident should be properly examined. On whose instruction did he deploy security personnel to the National Secretariat of a political party without notifying

the National Chairman?

“The Inspector General may, please, note that our country is currently under the scope of the international community, and this unwarranted assault on the opposition party and its staff, which is a clear threat to democracy in Nigeria, further aggravates a very tense situ- ation.”

PDP BoT Wades into Leadership Crisis

The Board of Trustees (BoT) of PDP has announced its resolve to wade into the leadership tussle in the party.

The embattled national chairman, Ambassador Illya Damagum, and other members of the party had also written to the INEC, intimating it of the suspension of National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu; National Legal Adviser, Kamadueem Ajibade; National Organising Secretary, Umar Bature; and Deputy National Legal Adviser, Osuoha Osueke.

In a letter dated November 4, 2025, signed by the NWC members, the party notified INEC of the officials’ suspension.

The Anyanwu faction of NWC of PDP had on Monday,

November 3, written a similar letter to INEC, informing it of the suspension of some members of the NWC.

However, in a notice summoning a BoT meeting, Chinwe I. Nnorom, National Director of Publicity, said, “This is to officially invite you for coverage of the PDP BoT meeting as directed by its chairman, Most Distinguished Senator Adolphus Wabara, to hold as follows:

“Date: Wednesday, 5th of November, 2025 (tomorrow) Venue: NEC Hall, PDP National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja. Time: 11:00 Am

“The main item on the agenda is the suspension and counter suspension of members of the NWC.”

However, PDP youth lead- ers in the North-central zone, yesterday, congratulated and supported the zonal chairman, Alhaji Abdulrahman Muhammed, over his appointment as acting National Chairman of PDP consequent upon the suspension of Damagun

They pledged their support for Muhammed, National Working Committee, Board of Trustees, and the founding fathers of the party for saving the opposition party.

A communique signed by Jamliu Ali, PDP Youth Forum’s chairman and Gombe youth leader, called on all party members to “close all ranks, sit down on the table and resolve all matters facing the PDP so that they would be able to submit one position since the people of Nigeria rellied on PDP and its leaders”.

At the same time, the North-central zone, at a meeting, disassociated itself from Mohammed as the national chairman and subsequently passed a vote of no confidence on him.

The delegates that walked out claimed that they could not be asked to sign an already prepared communique without any input.

Led by Alhassan Dangana, from Niger State, the delegates shouted on top of their voices, saying, “We are not robots, you cannot force a communique on us without any input.”

The PDP woman leader in the North-central zone also stormed out of the meeting, insisting that a communique that they knew nothing about would not be forced on them.

The communique read by Hon. Francis O. Orogu, PDP North Central Secretary, said

they found the assumption of office of Mohammed as acting national chairman not in accordance with the PDP constitution. It said more disturbing was that “government institu- tions are used to perpetual or encourage crime! this is unbecoming of a civilised democratic society”.

Relatedly, PDP National Ex-Officio Forum condemned Monday’s invasion of the party’s national secretariat in Abuja by loyalists of the suspended national secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, describing it as a display of political lawlessness and a direct assault on internal democracy. In a communiqué by its Chairman, Clement Faboyede, and Secretary, Mrs. Hassan Comfort, the forum said the incident at Wadata Plaza amounted to “a violation of the party’s constitution and an attempt to desecrate the sanctity of an institution built on decades of sacrifice, vision, and democratic commitment”. It added, “Those behind this inglorious plot have only succeeded in exposing their disdain for order and their contempt for the collective will of millions of PDP faithful nationwide.”

Workers’ Union to FG: Save Our Health System from Collapse

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The Medical and Health Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MHWUN) has asked the federal government to take measures to address the problem of poor infrastructure, inadequate personnel, and insufficient public investment still afflicting the country’s health system.

The union, which reechoed the concerns by striking Resident Doctors over funding and poor welfare packages, lamented that the situation has led to continued massive exodus of doctors, nurses, and other skilled professionals

from Nigeria.

It urged the federal government to prioritise workers’ welfare and commit more resources to strengthen the system.

The union’s position was contained in a communique released at the end of its 51st National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja, which was declared open by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Maigari Dingyadi, recently.

In the communique jointly signed by MHWUN President, Dr. Kabiru Sani, and Secretary-General, Auwalu Kiyawa, the union said the country was far from achieving a

health system of its dream, adding that urgent action was needed to tackle brain drain, insecurity, and chronic underfunding currently impacting negatively on the sector.

MHWUN condemned the country’s persistent failure to meet the 15 percent health budget commitment of the 2001 Abuja Declaration, describing it as Itunacceptable. also decried rising insecu- rity, internal displacement, and economic hardship, stating the challenges were worsening poverty and threatening national stability.

On workers’ welfare, the union expressed deep concern over the

worsening economic hardship and inflation that have eroded workers’ purchasing power, calling for urgent relief measures and policies that reduce reliance on imports.

The union lamented the massive exodus of doctors, nurses, and other skilled professionals, stating that it has crippled healthcare delivery and exacerbated medical tourism.

According to MHWUN, over 60,000 nurses and 19,000 doctors have reportedly left Nigeria in the past two decades, leaving behind a demoralized and overstretched workforce.

Ajax Coach Compares Osimhen with Drogba, Ibrahimovic

Ahead UEFA Champions League clash between Ajax and Galatasaray

Duro Ikhazuagbe

Ahead of tonight’s UEFA Champions League clash between hosts Ajax and Galatasaray at the Amsterdam Arena, Head Coach of the Dutch side, John Heitinga, has likened Nigeria and Galatasaray striker, Victor Osimhen, to former Chelsea legend, Didier Drogba and AC Milan great, Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Speaking at a pre-match press briefing on Tuesday in Amsterdam, Heitinga, insisted that Osimhen’s strength, physique and ball sense can only be compared with the two former legends of the beautiful game.

“If I were to compare Osimhen to someone, it would be these two people; one is Drogba, the other Ibrahimovic. He’s both strong and fast, and his physique is very good. We need

to watch out for him (tonight),” observed the Ajax gaffer ahead of the must-win clash for his team languishing at the bottom of the table with no point yet from three games.

Indeed, Heitinga, has every reason to be scared of the informed Nigerian striker whose presence in Istanbul has turned around Galatasaray fortunes. Osimhen has put his acrimonious departure from Napoli behind and settled down to business with the Turkish giants.

Before signing permanent deal last summer, Osimhen had during his loan spell banged in 37 goals in all competitions for Galatasaray. Just as he helped Napoli to win the Italian topflight Scudetto after three decades with his 26 goals in the Serie A, Osimhen was also largely instrumental in Galatasaray

Opobo Marathon Seals Sponsorship Deal with Ailes Group

The organisers of Opobo Marathon have announced a strategic partnership deal with Ailes Group as a key sponsor for the 8th edition of the race, scheduled to hold on January 5, 2026, in the historic coastal town of Opobo, Rivers State.

Ailes Group, a fast-rising conglomerate with interests spanning technology, energy, and integrated solutions, joins other corporate partners sup- porting Opobo Marathon as it continues to grow into one of Nigeria’s most recognised community-based first coastal road races.

Since its inception in 2019, Opobo Marathon has evolved into a rallying point for runners and visitors across Nigeria, showcasing the rich heritage and hospitality of Opobo Kingdom, while driving socio-economic activity in the region.Speaking on the partnership, Founder and Project Lead of Opobo Marathon, Henry Iyowuna

Cookey, said the collaboration marks another milestone in the marathon’s journey of expansion, and purpose-driven impact.

“We are delighted to welcome Ailes Group as a valued partner for the 8th Opobo Marathon. This partnership underscores our shared commitment to innovation, wellness, and community development. Together, we’re not just running — we’re going further,” Cookey said.

In a statement, Ailes Group noted that its decision to support the marathon aligns with its vision to back initiatives that foster social development and promote unity throughAccordingsports. to the Chairman/ Managing Director of Ailes Group, Chief Michael Onuoha, “Opobo Marathon represents resilience, collaboration, and progress — values that resonate deeply with Ailes Group. We are proud to be part of this inspiring platform that continues to empower com- munities and promote excellence.”

winning both the Turkish Super Lig title and the domestic cup, ending an 11-year wait for a double.

His absence at the start of this season’s UEFA Champions League opening game against Eintracht Frankfurt on Match-day 1, saw Galatasaray battered 5-1 by the Bundesliga side. Osimhen was sidelined due to injury he picked on international duty for Nigeria against Rwanda in Uyo. But his return has seen Okan

Buruk’s side flying high. First Osimhen delivered the goal that gave Galatasaray their first ever win against Liverpool. He also followed up scoring twice as the Turkish side hammered Bodo/ Glimt 3-1 in the third round. Now the Nigerian star forward has extended his streak of finding the net to seven consecutive European matches, bringing his total goals in that period to nine.

Tonight, Osimhen will be aim-

ing to erase the memories of the 2-1 defeat Galatasaray suffered against Ajax here at the same Amsterdam Arena. For Buruk, any win will be sufficient for his team to break away from several other teams on same six points. Three points in the bag tonight will lift Gala to the elite Top 8 class as the new league phase reaches its halfway point. Defeat here for Osimhen and his teammates might cause the 15th-placed side to drop further

GUNNERS BOOMING...

Monimichele: NFF Programmed Ugborodo Stadium Project to Fail

Duro Ikhazuagbe

The contractor handling the FIFA Forward 2.0 Stadium project in Ugborodo, Delta State, Monimichele Sports Infrastructure Limited, has heaped blames on why it was abandoned on the doorsteps of the leadership of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

Speaking on Brila FM’s “No Holds Barred” programme

yesterday, CEO of Monimichele Limited, Ebi Egbe, insisted that he did not abandon the project but left when the NFF stopped funding it.

The NFF had recently claimed in a statement to have terminated the contract due to the non completion of the project by the contractor.

But Egbe accused the NFF of reneging on the contract it entered with his firm.

Nigeria’s Set for World Sambo Championships in Kyrgyzstan

Nigeria will make its second appearance at the 2025 World Sambo Championships, scheduled to take place in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, from November 7 to 9.

Organized by the Fédération Internationale de Sambo (FIAS), the World Sambo Championships are the premier global event for both Sport Sambo and Combat Sambo, includ-

ing the Blind Sambo (SVI1 category).

Representing Nigeria this year are Fatai Balogun, Samuel Kekere, and Sodiq Ajibade, competing in the Combat and Blind Sambo categories. Balogun will compete in the men’s 88kg Combat Sambo, while Kekere, who made history in 2024 as the first African to compete in Blind Sambo

at the World Championships, returns to the global stage in the men’s 64kg Blind Sambo. Ajibade, making his debut, will represent Nigeria in the men’s 98kg Blind Sambo, aiming for a podium finish.

Expressing his excitement ahead of his second outing, Kekere praised FIAS for its support and commended Sheriff Hammed, Vice President and

General Secretary of the Sambo Association of Nigeria, for his instrumental role in facilitating the team’s participation.

The three-day championship will feature top sambists from around the world, with competitions across Sport Sambo (men and women), Combat Sambo (men and women), and Blind Sambo (men, SVI1 category).

“The NFF stopped funding the project three years ago,” began Egbe in the BrilaFM interview.

He stressed that the federation, from inception programmed the project to fail.

“The project was built to fail. I challenge anybody to go and quantify what has been done in Ugborodo. They should pay me my balance and see if the project won’t be completed,” the Monimichele CEO challenged the NFF on the project situated 300 nautical miles deep in the Atlantic Ocean.

While he was accused of not completing the job, Egbe, restated that he has only been paid $500,000 on the FIFA Forward 2.0 project, a development that makes it impossible to continue work without getting the balance of his contract terms

“I have worked more than $500,000 worth of construction, and I have equipment in Ug- borodo worth over ₦250 million rotting away in the last three

years,” observed the stadium construction expert.

The Monimichele CEO alleged that it was not funny for the NFF to receive $1.2 million from FIFA for the developmental project meant to help grassroots football and refused to pay him.

“I am hearing the NFF have received $1.2 million for the project from FIFA yet refused to pay me. I have not received $1.2 million. I am owed $700,000. They are just lying to Nigerians. He further alleged that the NFF taxed the $500,000 that he was paid to start the project “Do you know I was taxed on the $500,000 by the NFF? I have the documents to prove it,” he stated.

According to FIFA documents, the Ugborodo stadium project is just one of the several of such conceived as part of FIFA’s Forward 2.0 infrastructure support programme designed to improve football development across member nations.

ChiDiANSELm ODINKALu

Independent and Unaccountable: A New Code for Nigeria’s Judiciary

Among the doctrines that underpin the legal process in Nigeria, few are as profound and pervasive as judicial independence, but no doctrine in the ecosystem of the law rivals its elusiveness. The idea is ubiquitous in the syllabus of every programme leading to the award of a degree in law, in political science or public administration. After leaving the university, the practitioner will encounter it regularly in conferences and in after-dinner speeches.

Judicial independence is more than the stuff of law faculties and after-dinner fares. It is a fundamental human right in Nigeria. Indeed, the guarantee of the right to fair trial in section 36(1) of Nigeria’s constitution requires that every court should be “constituted in such a manner as to secure its independence and impartiality.”

Judges have a notional obligation to uphold it. The Code of Conduct for Judicial Officers in Nigeria contains five mentions of the words “independent” or “independence” and obligates them to observe “a high standard of conduct so that the integrity and respect for the independence the judiciary may be preserved.”

Despite the repetitive and obligatory genu- flections before its shrine, however, few people take even appearances of judicial independence seriously, and many are these days happy to advertise undisguised ridicule for it.

Take for instance what happened last week. On 29 October, a leading national newspaper ran the headline: “FIRS, Judiciary Strengthen Collaboration on Emerging Tax Laws.” It would have been easy to disregard it as the handiwork of a distracted or mis-informed reported. The reportage, however, belied that.

The National Judicial Institute (NJI) had organized what it called “a capacity-building workshop for Justices of the Supreme Court, Court of Appeal, and Judges of the Federal High Court on (Nigeria’s) new tax law.” Effectively, this was a training for the most senior and most influential judges in Nigeria.

Established in 1991, the NJI is the statutory body responsible for continuing studies or judicial education by judges and magistrates in Nigeria. It is headed by an Administrator, who is a retired senior judge and operates under the governance

of a board chaired by the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN). The Board approves all of its activities, including conferences, workshops, and trainings.

The NJI is funded by appropriations from the National Assembly but it also can receive sponsorships sometimes for its activities. The sums had not yet been disclosed at the time of writing but credible reports appear to indicate that the Federal Board of Inland Revenue (FIRS) substantially sponsored this latest training on the new tax laws. It is suggested, however, that the sponsorship was generous.

One of the headline speakers at that training for these most senior judges in Nigeria was the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), who happens to share the same first name as the infamous tax collector in the Christian Holy Book. To minimize the association with its Biblical forebear, the name this time is stylized to “Zacch”. In his address, Executive Chairman, Zaccheus, called “for deeper collaboration between the judiciary and tax authorities to ensure fair interpretation and enforcement.”

The call for collaboration of any sort, whether deep or shallow, between judges and anybody or institution clearly misapprehends the mission of the judiciary or invites them to be nobbled for value. It is not immediately clear if the judges had any response for Zaccheus on this occasion.

There, however, is evidence on the basis of previous conduct which offers us some clues.

This is far from a first in recent times for a senior public official to seek to corrupt the judiciary under the guise of seeking their collaboration.

In his memoirs, The Accidental Public Servant, former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and immediate past Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir el-Rufai, proudly tells the story of how as minister two decades ago, he led his staff to meet his High School senior, Lawal Hassan Gummi, who served in his time as Chief Judge of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory.

Following that meeting, he gloated, “the FCT judiciary supported us strongly throughout my tenure.” The manner of the support is clear from the fact that it subsequently became nearly impossible to secure any orders against the FCT administration while those two were in office. The few cases that escaped this institutionalized nobbling did not survive to enforcement.

Two years ago, in November 2023, the incumbent Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory, Husseini Baba Yusuf, led the Bench of his court to the office of Nasir el-Rufai’s current successor as the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike. At the meeting, the Chief Judge reminded the Minister that “as a judiciary we are part of the government and we expect that we should be able to do things that should make government work….”

As an act of prostitution of judicial powers, it is impossible to beat this. He did not have to wait too long to make good on this institutional willingness to be at the equestrian beck and call of the FCT Minister. When the FCT High Court filled judicial vacancies on its bench in the first quarter of 2024, they dutifully allocated one out of the twelve new vacancies on offer to the FCT Minister, to which he promptly deputed his sister-in-law.

This is far from the only way in which the politicians ensure that the courts are no longer constituted or able to fulfill the basic constitutional requirement of independence.

In July 2022 apparently, as he swore in a new Chief Judge for the state, Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, at the same time procured the State House of Assembly to amend the High

Court Law. Under the new amendment, where there is no substantive Chief Judge, the power to manage and assign cases in the High Court is transferred from the most senior judge (who is supposed to act until a new Chief Judge is appointed) to the Chief Registrar of the High Court.

There are well-founded suspicions that this amendment was procured a little more recently but backdated to 2022 to make it look older than it is in order to amputate the judicial role of the recently sworn-in Acting Chief Judge, Ijeoma Ogugua, whom the governor has been entirely unenthusiastic to allow into the role. The Acting Chief Judge functions under the authority of the National Judicial Council (NJC), in whose composition the Governor has no role.

By contrast, the Chief Registrar is appointed by the State Judicial Service Commission whose members are entirely beholden to the State Governor. In other words, by depriving the Chief Judge of the power over judicial dockets and case assignment and transferring it to the Chief Registrar, the Governor effectively makes himself the owner, controller, and manager of all cases filed in the High Court of Imo State. This is an arrangement that makes the life of the Chief Registrar unbearable and that of the Acting Chief Judge untenable. Almost assuredly, it is also manifestly unconstitutional.

Unconstitutional is, however, not a standard that necessarily or at all bothers these peddlers of political roguery. In their books, the judges are there to be massaged in public and ransacked in private. Preachments about judicial independence are there to impress law students, pre-occupy their teachers, and distract the un-initiated. Sadly, the current leadership of the judiciary at various levels at both state and federal levels have been complicit partners in this very political ravishing of their institutional virtues.

Increasingly, doctrines of judicial independence serve only one purpose: to render the judges independent of accountability for breaching it. The value of judicial independence, rather ironically, now lies in the absence of accountability for publicly flouting it.

•A lawyer and a teacher, Odinkalu can be reached at chidi.odinkalu@tufts.edu