₦airaland Forum

Malami: ADC Gov'ship Flagbearer Championing a New Vision for Kebbi State

In a period marked by rising public demand for effective governance, economic revitalization, and inclusive development, Abubakar malami, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Governorship Candidate in Kebbi State, has emerged as a prominent voice advocating for meaningful change and a people-centered administration.

Across Kebbi State, from urban centers to rural communities, citizens continue to express concern over economic hardship, youth unemployment, agricultural inefficiencies, and infrastructural gaps. Against this backdrop, Abubakar malami’s emergence has been widely described as a renewed opportunity to redefine governance and reposition the state for sustainable growth.

Known for his firm belief in transparency, accountability, and grassroots participation, malami has consistently emphasized the need for leadership that listens to the people and responds with practical, measurable solutions. His political message centers on restoring trust in governance and ensuring that development reaches every ward and local government area.

Supporters describe him as a leader with a deep understanding of Kebbi’s socio-economic realities, particularly in agriculture, which remains the backbone of the state’s economy. His policy direction places strong emphasis on modernizing agriculture, improving access to credit for farmers, strengthening rural infrastructure, and expanding value-chain opportunities for agribusiness development.

Beyond agriculture, malami’s vision includes robust investment in education, healthcare reform, youth empowerment programs, and job creation initiatives aimed at reducing unemployment and fostering self-reliance among young people. His approach reflects a broader commitment to building a diversified economy capable of sustaining long-term prosperity.

Political observers note that Kebbi State stands at a defining moment where leadership choices will significantly shape its developmental trajectory. In this context, Abubakar malami is increasingly viewed by supporters as a candidate offering fresh ideas, renewed energy, and a governance model rooted in inclusion and performance.

His message of unity has also resonated strongly across diverse communities in the state. By calling for cooperation beyond political, ethnic, and social divides, he has positioned himself as a proponent of peace, stability, and collective progress.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, growing attention is being placed on candidates who can combine vision with action. For many citizens, Abubakar malami represents this expectation—a leadership alternative focused on rebuilding institutions, empowering citizens, and driving sustainable development.

For supporters, his candidacy is not just political—it is a movement for renewal, accountability, and a better future for Kebbi State.

Signed:
Khadijah usman
The Nigeria policy group

BOYE OYEWUMI: MOST QUALIFIED VOICE FOR ONDO SOUTH IN THE SENATE

As political consultations and preparations for future electoral contests continue across Ondo State, one name continues to resonate strongly among stakeholders, professionals, youth groups, and party loyalists across Ondo South Senatorial District — Boye Oyewumi.

Widely respected for his integrity, credibility, extensive network, and commitment to public service, Boye Oyewumi stands out as a leader uniquely positioned to provide effective representation for the people of Ondo South in the Senate.

Beyond his impressive professional accomplishments, Oyewumi has built valuable relationships across government, business, and political circles at both state and national levels. These connections are not merely personal achievements; they are strategic assets that can be leveraged to attract development projects, investments, employment opportunities, and greater federal attention to Ondo South.

At a time when communities are seeking stronger representation and greater access to opportunities, Ondo South cannot afford to overlook a candidate with the experience, influence, and capacity to deliver tangible results. His understanding of governance, combined with his ability to engage key decision-makers, makes him a compelling choice for the senatorial position.

Many party faithful and community leaders believe that the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), particularly the National Chairman, should give serious consideration to supporting Boye Oyewumi's aspiration. His reputation as a unifier, grassroots mobilizer, and respected party stakeholder places him among the strongest contenders capable of retaining and strengthening the party's influence in the district.

Supporters maintain that the future of Ondo South requires a representative who can effectively advocate for the district at the national level while ensuring that the needs of the people remain at the forefront of legislative action. In Boye Oyewumi, they see a leader with the vision, reach, and determination to make that happen.

As conversations about leadership and representation continue, many believe that Boye Oyewumi offers a rare combination of competence, credibility, and influence that should not be ignored.

Ondo South deserves strong representation. Ondo South deserves results. Ondo South deserves Boye Oyewumi.

Signed

Boluwatife Ayodele
Abuja
19 June 2026

WOMEN GROUP CONDOLES MINISTER MUSAWA OVER PASSING OF MOTHER

Women in Business and Politics has condoled the Honourable Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, on the passing of her beloved mother.

The women group said it received with deep sadness the news of her demise, which occurred yesterday, followed by her burial in accordance with Islamic rites.

At this difficult time, we stand in solidarity with Honourable Musawa, her family, friends and loved ones as they mourn this profound loss. The death of a mother leaves an irreplaceable void, and we pray that Almighty Allah grants the departed eternal rest in Aljannatul Firdaus and gives the family the strength, comfort and fortitude to bear this painful loss.

Honourable Hannatu Musawa has continued to inspire many women across Nigeria through her dedication to public service and national development. As an organization committed to celebrating and supporting women in leadership, business and governance, we share in her grief and offer our sincere sympathies during this period of mourning.

In a statement, Hassie Oyama, Coordinator of Women in Business and Politics, described the late matriarch’s passing as a painful loss and prayed for divine comfort for the family.

“On behalf of Women in Business and Politics Nigeria, I extend my deepest sympathies to Honourable Hannatu Musawa and her family. The loss of a mother is one of life’s most difficult experiences. We pray that Almighty Allah grants her eternal rest and gives the family the strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss,” she said.

May the cherished memories of her mother remain a source of comfort and may her soul rest in perfect peace.

Kwara Must Not Gamble With 2027

Why the Next Phase Requires Capacity, Stability, Productive Leadership, and Tested Loyalty

By Coalition of Committed Kwara Progressives


Kwara State stands today at a delicate but defining crossroads.

For the first time in many years, the state is gradually emerging from the destructive culture of reckless political entitlement that once weakened governance, damaged institutions, and reduced public administration to a battleground for patronage and elite survival.

Over the last several years, the administration of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has undeniably restored a degree of fiscal discipline, institutional sanity, infrastructural direction, and administrative stability to the state. No honest observer can deny this reality.

However, the greatest danger facing societies after major reform periods is not always opposition from outside. Often, the greatest danger comes from internal opportunism, the attempt by political actors to inherit the benefits of stability they neither sacrificed for nor contributed meaningfully toward building.

This is precisely why the conversation around 2027 must be approached with seriousness and honesty.

Kwara cannot afford experimental leadership.

The future challenges confronting the state are too complex for politics as-usual.

Economic pressures are increasing globally. Federal allocations though have increased but state finances are still under pressure due to burgeoning public expenditure demands. Citizens are facing severe hardship. Youth unemployment needs to be straddled more decisively at state level. Governance is becoming more technology-driven, productivity-oriented, and economically competitive.

Under such conditions, leadership must move beyond rhetoric and propaganda.

The next governor of Kwara State must possess proven evidence of productive capacity, systems management, economic understanding, institutional discipline, and real-world executive competence.

This is no longer negotiable.

The era when politicians without productive backgrounds or independent economic legitimacy could survive purely on patronage politics is rapidly fading.

Today, societies require builders not merely office seekers.

Kwara needs leadership rooted in value creation, not value appropriation.

This is why many progressives across the state are increasingly uncomfortable with the growing attempt by some political actors to reduce the succession debate to propaganda campaigns, emotional blackmail, sectional manipulation, and carefully orchestrated loyalty performances.

The truth is simple:
Not everybody currently shouting loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu stood firmly with the APC structure during difficult periods.
Political memory matters.
Antecedents matter.
Consistency matters.

There is a major difference between those who sustained the party through sacrifice and those who merely position themselves around power once victory appears close.

This distinction is critically important because the APC in Kwara today did not become stable accidentally.

The current structure was built through years of sacrifice, financial commitment, grassroots mobilization, operational coordination, stakeholder management, and sustained loyalty by individuals who repeatedly subordinated personal ambition to collective political stability.

Among those individuals, one name continues to stand out clearly across different segments of the state and that is Amb. Abdulfatai Yahaya Seriki Gambari.

What distinguishes him is not noise, It is antecedent.

At a time when many politicians merely talk about empowerment, he has spent years building one of the most extensive privately funded humanitarian and grassroots support networks across Kwara State without dependence on public office or government patronage.

At a time when many politicians survive entirely around government structures, he built independent economic capacity through one of the most difficult sectors within the Nigerian economy.

At a time when many politicians weaponize bitterness after political disappointment, he repeatedly chose party stability over personal grievance.

These distinctions matter.

Kwara today does not need another career politician looking for access to public resources.

It needs leadership with independent economic legitimacy and proven understanding of productive governance.

This is one of the reasons many stakeholders increasingly describe Ambassador Yahaya Seriki not merely as a politician, but as one of the few aspirants whose life trajectory already reflects the realities modern governance now demands:
• systems thinking
• investment understanding
• institutional coordination
• economic management
• executive discipline
• productivity orientation
• and broad grassroots legitimacy.

The mining and resource economy where he built his enterprise is not an environment where mediocrity survives. It requires resilience, negotiation capacity, operational management, risk coordination, and long-term strategic thinking.

These are governance qualities.

More importantly, his developmental and humanitarian interventions across communities, youth structures, political stakeholders, religious institutions, and vulnerable populations across all three senatorial districts have remained extensive, visible, and largely non-performative.

This partly explains why his acceptance continues to deepen organically across different layers of Kwara society.
What also continues to distinguish him politically is consistency of loyalty.

In 2019, he played a major operational role in the political movement that dismantled the old PDP establishment in Kwara State as Director General of the APC Governorship Campaign Council.

After victory, he remained firmly aligned with the party and the administration of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq even during difficult periods when many others quietly distanced themselves from the structure.

In 2023, after actively contesting the APC Senatorial primaries for Kwara Central,he accepted the final decision of the party with discipline and maturity and subsequently intensified support for the APC structure rather than destabilize it.

This is important.

Because one of the biggest threats facing political systems today is the normalization of desperation politics.

We are now witnessing a dangerous culture where some politicians believe that if personal ambition is not immediately satisfied, then party stability, institutional cohesion, and collective political success become secondary.

This mindset is dangerous for any governing party.

Kwara cannot afford leadership rooted in grievance politics, emotional retaliation, factional vengeance, or destabilizing desperation disguised as ambition.

The APC especially cannot afford such instability ahead of 2027.

President Tinubu requires strong, cohesive, and politically stable subnational structures across strategic states. He requires leaders whose antecedents reflect consistency, productive capacity, and institutional discipline,not individuals whose loyalty fluctuates depending on personal political outcomes.

This is why many stakeholders increasingly believe that the current succession process must reward tested loyalty, productive leadership, broad grassroots legitimacy, and stabilizing political maturity.

Anything outside that carries significant political risk.

The future of Kwara cannot be entrusted to individuals whose strongest qualification is proximity to power or temporary propaganda momentum.

It must be entrusted to leadership capable of consolidating the gains already achieved while expanding the state into a more economically competitive future.

Kwara now requires deeper investment attraction, industrial support systems, creative economy expansion, MICE sector growth, tourism development, youth productivity, technological adaptation, stronger institutional governance and sustainable economic expansion.

These objectives require a governor with real-world executive experience and demonstrated productive capacity.
Not experimental politics, emotional agitation or orchestrated propaganda.

Ultimately, the real question before APC stakeholders and the people of Kwara is simple:

Who possesses the broadest combination of tested loyalty, productive capacity, grassroots trust, financial independence, mobilization strength, political stability, executive competence and statewide acceptability?

It is unarguable that many progressives across the state and the generality of Kwarans are convinced that the answer to that question is becoming clearer by the day.

And perhaps this explains why the momentum around Ambassador Abdulfatai Yahaya Seriki Gambari MFR continues to deepen steadily across political, grassroots, business, institutional, and youth circles within Kwara State.

Governors Alia, Mbah, Otu Lead Dignitaries at Accolade Dynamics’ 6th Yellow Ball & Awards

The 6th edition of the Accolade Yellow Ball & Awards 2026 brought together governors, first ladies, ministers, captains of industry, entrepreneurs, philanthropists, and public officials in Abuja for an evening dedicated to celebrating excellence, leadership, and national impact.

The prestigious event, organised by Accolade Dynamics Ltd, honoured distinguished individuals and organisations for their contributions to governance, entrepreneurship, humanitarian service, public administration, community development, and social impact across Nigeria and the African continent.

Among the notable personalities present at the event were the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia; the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah; and the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu.

Also in attendance were the First Lady of Enugu State, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah, and the First Lady of Cross River State, Bishop Dr. Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, alongside several distinguished guests from across the country.

The Minister of Women Affairs, Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim; the Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Hon. Dr. Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure; and the Secretary to the Commission of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Dr. Mrs. Rose Omoa Oriaran-Anthony, were also among dignitaries present at the event.

Other prominent guests included logistics and trade expert, Mr. Nduka Udeh; members of the De Imperial Philanthropic Family; senior government officials; business leaders; development advocates; and stakeholders from different sectors of society.

Speaking during the ceremony, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Accolade Dynamics Ltd, Doofan Chizaram Tor, described the awards as a platform committed to recognising excellence, resilience, innovation, and transformational leadership across different sectors.

According to her, the initiative has continued to celebrate individuals and institutions making meaningful contributions in governance, entrepreneurship, philanthropy, humanitarian service, technology, and national development.

“Tonight is about recognising excellence across different sectors and celebrating individuals whose work continues to inspire progress and development. We are here to honour people who were nominated and voted for by members of the public through Accolade Dynamics Ltd,” she said.

Tor noted that the 2026 edition reflected the growing credibility and national reach of the platform, which she described as a recognition initiative dedicated to celebrating visionaries and changemakers shaping the future of society.

She further explained that this year’s selection process incorporated public participation through a voting system designed to ensure transparency, inclusiveness, and credibility.

“We did not only recognise political leaders. We also honoured entrepreneurs, companies, foundations, and individuals making tangible contributions within their communities and industries. The voting process allowed Nigerians to actively participate in identifying deserving recipients,” she added.

She encouraged young Nigerians and emerging leaders to remain committed to hard work, resilience, and excellence regardless of their background or circumstances.

Among the major highlights of the evening was the conferment of the Best Performing Governor in Infrastructural Development award on the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia. The award was received on his behalf by former Governor of Benue State, Senator Gabriel Suswam.

Speaking at the event, Suswam said the recognition reflected the ongoing commitment of Governor Alia’s administration to infrastructural development and governance in Benue State.

“I believe the award reflects the ongoing efforts of the governor in laying foundations for sustainable development in Benue State despite prevailing challenges. His administration has continued to pursue infrastructural projects with determination, and this recognition is commendable,” he said.

Suswam acknowledged that security concerns, including clashes between herders and farmers as well as criminal activities, remained significant challenges within the state, while expressing optimism that continued support from the Federal Government would improve the situation.

Also speaking at the event, the Minister of Women Affairs, Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, described the recognition as an indication that the ministry’s efforts toward women empowerment and social development were yielding positive results.

“A few days ago, women across Nigeria gathered under the ‘Power of 10 Million’ initiative to endorse President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for women, children, families, and vulnerable groups. Women from different political parties, generations, and regions came together in support of policies aimed at advancing women development in the country,” she said.

The minister further stated that the Federal Government was taking steps to strengthen Nigeria’s social welfare system through the implementation of the Social Work Council Act.

“Mr. President has prioritised the implementation of the Social Work Council Act, and Nigerians will soon witness the emergence of a stronger social work framework and a more effective welfare workforce across the country,” she stated.

Abuja Hosts Grand Exhibition To Celebrate President Tinubu @ 74

Nigeria’s capital city, Abuja, will on March 24, 2026, play host to a distinguished gathering of political leaders, cultural icons and business elites as Artifact Galleries stages a landmark exhibition titled “A Nation in Portraits” in honour of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the occasion of his 74th birthday.

The grand unveiling, scheduled for the A-Class Event Centre, Diamond Hall, Wuse 2, is designed not only as a celebration of the president’s life, but as a reflection on his leadership journey and contributions to Nigeria’s political and economic evolution.

Since assuming office, President Tinubu has pursued a reform-driven agenda that has reshaped key sectors of the Nigerian economy. His administration’s bold policy decisions, including fuel subsidy removal and foreign exchange unification, have been widely acknowledged as difficult but necessary steps toward long-term economic stability. The government has also intensified infrastructure development, expanded social investment programmes, and prioritized revenue generation reforms aimed at strengthening fiscal sustainability.

Beyond his presidency, Tinubu’s legacy as a political strategist and reformer—particularly during his tenure as Governor of Lagos State—continues to define his national influence, with many crediting him for laying the groundwork for modern governance and economic expansion in Nigeria’s commercial capital.
The exhibition will feature over 150 curated portrait paintings of distinguished Nigerians, including a specially commissioned realism portrait of the president, symbolizing his place in the country’s contemporary history.

The event also aligns with the broader vision of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Centre for Art and Vocational (BATCAV), an initiative aimed at equipping 100,000 Nigerian youths with creative and vocational skills while boosting employment and cultural enterprise.

Imo State Governor, H.E. Hope Uzodimma is playing a key role with former Zamfara State Governor and Senator, Abdulaziz Yari, serving as chairman. The President’s daughter, Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, is billed as Special Host.

Special Guest of Honour is Vice President, H.E. Kashim Shettima.
A strong lineup of eminent personalities are also expected which include,
Senate President H.E. Godswill Akpabio; Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu; Minister for Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy,Hannatu Musawa,
Minister for Petroleum, Heineken Lokpobri, Gov Dauda Lawal of Zamfara,
and billionaire industrialist, Abdul Samad Rabiu, among others.

Organisers say the exhibition will serve as a cultural tribute and a platform to inspire national unity, while reinforcing the role of the creative industry in driving economic growth and youth empowerment.
With its blend of art, leadership reflection and national celebration, “A Nation in Portraits” is poised to stand as a defining highlight of President Tinubu’s 74th birthday commemorations.

Ramadan: Foundation Supports Muslims With Food In Abuja


Standing in solidarity and support of resilient beneficiaries in Muslim communities during the Ramadan season, the Khairat Foundation for Hope Revival on Friday fed over 200 muslims with nutritious cooked meals after prayers at the National mosque in Abuja.


Amb.Oyiza Abdulrasheed, President of the Foundation said the initiative which has been ongoing for two years now has become very significant considering the economic strain plaguing low-cost communities due to the rapidly increasing cost of living and economic strain on most low cost communities.



"The foundation initiated this special outreach program as an act of kindness and compassion for food insecure Muslims observing the religious exercise of fasting and prayer during the Ramadan period.


'We as a foundation are doing this to support food security in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and supporting good governance strategies in the country.


"Today, we decided to share the little token of
Ramadan food we can give to the good citizens of Nigeria and also in support of my leader, former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello.


"We are all in collaboration to ensure that Muslims who are fasting get a bit of ease while observing the Ramadan to ensure that they have something to open and break their fast with as an act of kindness and support; she said


The Foundation’s Programs Cordinator, Discovery Idau, said that the exercise is part of the organisation's broader efforts to address food security, with a target of 100,000 households nationwide.


" So we are here this evening to do what has become a custom for us during the fasting period.



"This foundation is always doing this during every fasting period to make sure she gives support to the people, our Muslim brothers , who are fasting, during every breaking fast, we come out to bring food and to tell everyone that there is still hope.

"We gather in a prayer place, which is the mosque to share food items and a little token of cash to support people in their fasting,this is a call that everybody needs to answer because we are all equal .


To make sure, to tell people that all hope is not lost, and we are doing our best to make sure that people's food are on the table for the masses and for the citizens of this country.



"So. we call on Nigerians to support her in doing something like this because she is not relenting and she is not sleeping.

"She will do more, she does all these things with money from her pocket and she is not tired.

"We call on more support to ensure that she continues to deploy this sustainable approach and her various reachout programs,"she added( NAN)

TikTok Honours GWR Holder Brian Nwana For Telling Abuja’s Food Story

Guinness World Record holder and content creator Brian Nwana has been named TikTok Africa’s Storyteller of the Year, a win he describes as truly “surreal.”

Brian’s work has always been about one thing celebrating Nigeria’s food culture, especially the hidden gems in Abuja.

Receiving the award, he shared a message that connected with everyone in the room:
“Every single creator is a storyteller. We all tell stories that help drive the local communities, our cities, and our countries, and when we do that we change the perception that the world has about us.”

Speaking after the event, Brian reflected on how everything started so simply.

“When I began creating content, I just wanted to show people what Abuja had to offer. The amazing food, the creativity, the spots people don’t know about. Breaking the Guinness World Record by visiting 150 restaurants in a day, helped shine a big light on that and now this TikTok award is doing the same. I’m honestly just grateful.”

Brian gained national and global attention when he set the Guinness World Record for the Most Fast-Food Restaurant Visits in 24 Hours, a fun but intense challenge that showed his passion for highlighting local businesses.

He shared that telling his small circle about the nomination made the moment even more special, especially the support they've shown him from the beginning. He is grateful for the solid friends and family he has in his corner as well as his Manager Rhoda Kusimo Iloba.

With this new win, Brian continues to stand out as one of Abuja’s strongest creative voices known for his humour, honesty, and love for his city. His journey from visiting local restaurants with a camera to earning global recognition is a reminder that passion can take you places you never expected.

In a bid to promote youth participation in sports, particularly Table Tennis, philanthropist and sports enthusiast Ahmed Khamisu Mailantarki has donated Butterfly Centerfold Table Tennis tables and accessories across the six states of Nigeria’s Northeast region.

The donation was made during a two-day Maiden Table Tennis Clinic held at the indoor hall of the Jolly Nyame Stadium in Jalingo, Taraba State.

The clinic, as noticed by The Guardian, brought together young participants and coaches from across the six Northeastern states for intensive training and talent discovery.

Speaking, Mailantarki stated that his gesture was driven by a passion to develop Table Tennis in the region. He emphasized that the clinic was organized to identify and nurture young talents who can go on to represent the Northeast at national and international competitions.

“The goal is to catch them young and provide the necessary tools and mentorship that can elevate their skills,” he said.

Also speaking, a board member of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) from the Northeast, Heman Timothy, commended Mailantarki for his commitment to grassroots sports development.

Timothy commended the coaches for their hands on training sessions and urged them to continue nurturing the identified talents in their respective states.

Chief Coach of the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation, Bello Nasiru, described the clinic as a vital platform for discovering and grooming young talents. He applauded Mailantarki’s support, promising continued collaboration in future development programs. Nasiru also revealed that similar clinics would be held across other states in the region as part of an ongoing talent hunt initiative.

Shuabu Okainde, a Technical Director on the Board of the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation, also hailed the event as one of the best efforts to groom young players in the sport. He lauded the sponsor for investing in grassroots development.

In his remarks, Taraba State Sports Council Director, George Shitta, expressed gratitude to the organizers for choosing Taraba to host the maiden edition of the clinic. He also thanked the national coaches for dedicating their time and expertise to training the youth.

Tech Pioneer Bright Echefu Leads Editors On Guided Tour Of Defence Innovation Hub

With drones in the sky, innovation on the ground, and a bold vision for indigenous defence capability, Dr. Bright Echefu is emerging as one of Nigeria’s most transformative entrepreneurs — blending technological excellence with national purpose.

Earlier this week, Dr. Echefu, Chairman of EIB Group and the revolutionary Briech UAS, hosted top editors and senior journalists from Abuja to a high-level media parley and guided tour of his ultra-modern defence-tech facility. The event was both strategic and symbolic: a showcase of homegrown innovation and a declaration of readiness to redefine Nigeria’s defence narrative.

In April 2025, Dr. Echefu made national headlines when Briech UAS, in collaboration with the Nigerian military, unveiled Africa’s first large-scale, locally produced attack drones, bombs, and surveillance equipment — a game-changer in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and insecurity. That historic unveiling was attended by top defence stakeholders, including Gen. Christopher Musa, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, the Governor of Plateau State, the Inspector General of Police, and officials from the DSS and Ministry of Defence.

“Nigeria cannot afford to keep importing safety. We must build it here. And that’s what we’re doing — boldly, locally, and transparently,”
— Dr. Bright Echefu

Dr. Echefu is not just building machines — he’s building systems, industries, and sovereign capacity. He sits atop a growing conglomerate that includes four subsidiaries, such as the rebranded Luft CV (formerly Matthias CV) and an advanced automobile production company, all geared toward local manufacturing and industrial self-reliance.

Described as a leader par excellence, Dr. Echefu represents a new generation of entrepreneurs who fuse economic ambition with patriotic duty, especially in sectors vital to Nigeria’s future.

During the media interaction, he called for stronger government backing of indigenous defence manufacturers, stating that jamming systems, drone countermeasures, and battlefield analytics are the future of warfare — and Nigeria must be in front.

“The use of commercial drones by insurgents presents serious risks to our forces. But with drone detection, jamming systems, and local intelligence solutions, we can defend smarter, faster, and cheaper,”— Dr. Bright Echefu

General Musa, present at the April unveiling, emphasized that these homegrown defence solutions are critical in an era of asymmetric warfare and complex procurement politics: “If you don’t produce what you need, you are at the mercy of others — even when you can afford it,” the Defence Chief stated.

In line with that vision, President Bola Tinubu’s 2025 Budget of Restoration allocated ₦4.91 trillion to defence and security, the highest single line item — a move that further validates the push for local manufacturing, research collaboration, and self-sufficiency.

Dr. Echefu believes Nigeria already has the technical expertise and industrial base to reduce reliance on foreign defence imports. His facilities are integrating real-time satellite intelligence, drone surveillance dashboards, and autonomous systems for tactical advantage.

“We’re not just building equipment — we’re building insight. Our systems offer at-a-glance battlefield intelligence, allowing better command decisions and resource allocation,” he noted.

His goal is clear: build force multipliers for Nigeria’s security agencies, create jobs across sectors, and position Nigeria as an African hub for military and defence innovation.

With opposition and online distortion creeping into public discourse, Dr. Echefu’s team has begun a coordinated media strategy to correct the record and amplify his impact.

“We don’t just want to be heard — we want to be understood. We’re building the future of this country, and that story must be told the right way,” — EIB Media Officer

Dr. Bright Echefu is not just a businessman — he’s a tech patriot, a builder of futures, and a strategic mind who sees beyond profits to purpose. His work in defence, mobility, and technology is giving Nigeria not just tools — but hope.

One Abuja-based editor who attended the tour captured the mood best: “This man is not playing. He’s building what other countries beg to import.”

Indeed, Dr. Bright Echefu is helping to craft a new Nigeria — one that secures itself, builds for itself, and believes in itself.

Experts Urge African Leaders To Invest In Capacity Building, Ethical Leadership

As global economies continue to evolve amid rapid technological advancement, stakeholders at the 2025 Marketplace Leadership Conference have called on African leaders, enterprenuers to prioritise capacity building, ethical governance, and youth mentorship as pillars for sustainable development across the continent.

The call was made at The Marketplace Leadership Conference 2025 held in Abuja with the theme, “Diplomatic Kingdom Affairs – Dynamics of Personal, Corporate and Organisational Diplomacy.” The conference served as a platform for dialogue, skill development, and strategic alignment between seasoned leaders and emerging voices in Africa’s economic and social landscape.

Speaking at the event in Abuja, Manasseh Dogon (the disruptive marketplace mentor), Founder of The Metropolitan Church and Chief Executive Officer of the MAIME Foundation, expressed concern over the continent’s leadership readiness. He noted that despite the proliferation of innovation and access to information, many African leaders have yet to embrace the critical need for personal reinvention and mental development.

“African leaders must become active participants in global decision-making processes,” Dogon stated. “Our race or colour should never be perceived as a disadvantage. The key lies in mental capacity—our ability to think, negotiate, and lead with purpose and confidence.”
He added that the conference aims to equip current and emerging leaders with the intellectual tools and ethical foundation required to thrive in both local and international markets.

“We cannot afford to neglect capacity development. Too often, we underestimate our potential. This gathering is about shifting that mindset—about encouraging leaders to reinvent themselves and to lead with integrity and strategic awareness.”

Dogon also highlighted a widespread lack of ethical conduct among business leaders in Africa, stressing the importance of aligning professional practices with global ethical standards and biblical principles.

“We must become people of our word. Ethics is not just a corporate requirement; it is a leadership imperative. As Africans, we must be intentional about conducting business truthfully and respectfully,” he added.

Also speaking at the conference, Mr Akin Akinpelu, scholar in Education Leadership, emphasised the urgent need for curriculum reform in Nigeria’s education system. He criticised the current curriculum as obsolete and misaligned with the realities of today’s job market.

“Any educational framework that does not equip students with employable skills is outdated,” Akinpelu asserted. “We need to reengineer our learning systems to foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and real-world problem solving.”

He also pointed to the importance of creating an enabling environment for young people to thrive, noting that a lack of structure and reliable role models is contributing to rising disillusionment among youth.

“Young people in Nigeria are not asking for much. They want a system that works—an environment where they can breathe, build, and believe,” he said. “What we must do is provide mentorship, transparent success stories, and a future they can trust.”
Akinpelu concluded with a call for intentional mentorship and leadership accountability, stressing that visionaries and established leaders must take an active role in grooming the next generation.

“If we walk with them, guide them, and lead by example, the levels of youth frustration and crisis will significantly decline.”
On his part, a pastor and economist, Jakes Adeyinka, said that dishonesty is killing many businesses in Nigeria as a result of greed and unethical practices of many entrepreneurs.

He said: "Values are critical for any business to grow. Values are what you're known for. Values are what people respect you for. And particularly now, a Bible verse that I would want to echo is Proverbs 11.1. So the Bible says a dishonest skill is an abomination to God. What does that mean? It means if people even know you as a person that you use dishonest skills in your business or concept, or your product is fake, you know, people will just shy away from you.

"For any business that will grow, one of the foundational things the business should have is values and ethics that people can actually vouch for. Policies are a product of men putting down thoughts, structures, laws, legislations in place that actually govern a system. We need to shape the mindset. Then we need people to go in there and make these things work.

"The fact is we have policies, we have systems in place, but one of the things we need to happen is the will and people to actually do. So there are systems in paper, but we need things to actually be executed."

Mid-term Report: Citizens Project To Release Compendium On Tinubu’s Administration

The Citizens Project, a national civic initiative committed to documenting and elevating the role of citizens in governance accountability is set to release its flagship publication on President Bola Tinubu's administration.

The publication titled "The Reform Index™: Tracking Nigeria's Governance Evolution Under Tinubu" is a comprehensive, non-partisan compendium of the day to day activities, reforms and policy directions undertaken by President Tinubu’s government between May 29, 2023, and May 28, 2025.

In a statement the convener, A'dab Ukor said the project through its flagship publication, grassroots engagement, and public communication platforms, offers a clear-eyed view of Nigeria’s governance trajectory—anchored in verifiable data and a commitment to participatory democracy.

According to him, “The Reform Index™ documents key initiatives in economic reform, energy restructuring, foreign policy, infrastructure expansion, education, social protection, digital governance, and national security. It captures the difficult choices made, such as the removal of fuel subsidies and foreign exchange unification, as well as the compensatory social programs like the expansion of cash transfers, student loan schemes, and the revival of long-standing infrastructure projects.

“The Reform Index™ is not a government document, nor is it a partisan critique—it is a citizens’ lens on the governance journey so far."

Ukor revealed that the Reform Index™ will be publicly presented after it has been officially handed over to Tinubu by the Citizens Project Presidential Stakeholders Delegation.

“It will become a biennial feature of The Citizens Project. Future editions will continue to draw from verified field data, media tracking, budget analysis, and citizen surveys, to ensure an informed civic discourse rooted in transparency, truth, and shared responsibility.

“The Citizens Project acknowledges the critical role of the Nigerian media in amplifying citizen voices and shaping the national conversation. We see media partners as key stakeholders in our mission to deepen democratic engagement through evidence-based narratives. We encourage newsrooms, editors, and broadcasters to examine The Reform Index™, reference its findings in their reporting, and invite representatives of The Citizens Project for commentary, clarification, or further analysis,” Ukor added.

The project is said to be supported by distinguished national patrons like His Imperial Majesty, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, Ooni of Ife; His Royal Highness, Emir Nasir Ado Bayero, Bichi Emirate Council; Chief Sam Okey Nwosu, Project Chief Facilitator and hosts of other patriotic eminent Nigerians drawn across the six geopolitical zones.

The Citizens Project, according to the organisers, has presence across all 36 states and over 590 local governments areas, to bridge the gap between reform and reality, policy and people.

Analysts Want Tougher Measures Against Purveyors of Fake News Against Banks

Financial analysts have expressed concern that the slew of fake news targeting some financial institutions could undermine the banking system and called on the authorities to crack down on the purveyors.

A financial expert, Dayo Bello, said he was surprised that despite repeated clarifications by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) earlier this year, some mischief makers had infiltrated the media, recycling the same old, false news.

Bello expressed concern that it was regrettable that even some public officers who should know better were amplifying the fake news and called for tougher sanctions by the police, the CBN and other regulators.

"Such unwarranted and baseless attacks could undermine confidence and create a run, which is the last thing that the country needs at this time," Bello said.

Another analyst, Mr. Abdullahi Umaru, condemned the social media campaign, adding that he was particularly surprised that Keystone featured in the fake news. He asked the police and the CBN to crack down on the purveyors.

"A bank with excellent retail banking record like Keystone Bank, even by KPMG BICX 2023 rating, is the last bank you expect to find in such false and alarming report," he said, adding, "I have seen continuous, remarkable improvements in the performance of Keystone. The new management is obviously in pole position to recapitalise as directed by the CBN. No one needs any distractions now."

It would be recalled that last week, the CBN issued a statement clarifying that a statement it had issued on January 10, 2024, on the dissolution of the Boards of Union, Keystone and Polaris Banks was being passed off as if it was issued on June 10, 2024.

On Tuesday, Keystone Bank issued a statement reaffirming that the bank remained safe, healthy, strong and resilient.

The bank said it was pursuing legal action against the purveyors of the fake news and urged customers and stakeholders to dismiss the report.

Nigeria @64: Our democracy tied closely to quality of leadership – Gov. Yusuf

Kano Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has affirmed that the country’s democratic progress is tied closely to the quality of leadership.

Gov. Yusuf spoke at a lecture to mark the country’s 64th independence.

Assessing the progress made in the country’s democratic journey, he identified weak institutions, corruption, poor governance, and the quality of leadership at the national, state, and local government levels as some of the challenges hindering Nigeria’s development.

The governor commended the two speakers at the lecture, Prof. Kamilu Fagge and Sheikh Ibrahim Khalil, for their contribution while they “incisively engaged us on topics that are of paramount importance to both Kano state and our country as a whole.”

He described the topics addressed as apt and reflecting the realities of national life, especially in the areas of governance, leadership, and the relentless pursuit of development.

In his assessment, Governor Yusuf raised questions on whether the democratic ideals of freedom, justice, and equality have been fulfilled.

He said: “As it is everywhere globally, the success of Nigeria’s democracy is tied closely to the quality of leadership.

“As a developing nation with a complex political landscape, leadership challenges, such as corruption, weak institutions and lack of accountability, have hindered national progress.

He said: “A lecture focusing on leadership challenges will certainly allow for a deeper analysis of the role leaders at both state and national levels play in the country’s successes and shortcomings.

“Although the topics address national issues, its specific focus on Kano State is highly relevant. States are the building blocks of Nigeria’s federal structure, and the progress of individual states contributes to the overall success of the nation.

Turning his attention on his own government and state, Governor Yusuf said that by repositioning Kano State to address leadership and governance challenges, it sets an example for other states on how to create a model of good governance that can be replicated nationwide.

He said: “Allow me to also remind you that the future of Nigeria is deeply linked to the development of its states. A brighter future for Kano State can serve as a small-scale version of the broader national aspiration for a prosperous Nigeria.

“By addressing state-level challenges in leadership, education, health, and infrastructure, these topics emphasise the importance of localized governance as a stepping stone to national success.”

He said we must recognise that democracy is a journey, and the success of that journey is largely dependent on the quality of leadership at every level — national, state, and local government. “We in Kano State are fully committed to playing our part in strengthening the democratic process and building institutions that foster good governance.”

Governor Abba, who used the opportunity to highlight some of his achievements in education, health, security, agriculture, and public service reforms among others, said as Kano State looks to the future, his administration will continue to build on those achievements.

He called for the active participation of all citizens and unity in the spirit of patriotism, hard work, and dedication to the values that define Nigerians as a people.

“Let me therefore urge all of us to use this anniversary as a time for reflection, and renew our commitment to building a prosperous, secure, and inclusive Kano State and Nigeria at large,” he said.

Re: Of Formidable Eagle and Paper Tiger, A Reply to Aminu

Shahada Umar

The article by one Nasir Aminu entitled, “A Formidable Eagle or a Paper Tiger,” exposes the dangers of a single narrative. But it’s obvious, from the start, that it was deliberate. I have seen many such tainted pieces; smarter ones even try to disguise their motives from the beginning. But not this one.

In the article, the fellow, supposedly a teacher in Economics and Finance with an interest in ethics, had one agenda: to feed the dangerous narrative that the leadership of certain institutions in the country is the prerogative of one section. Nonsense!

Invoking the nostalgia of the Nuhu Ribadu days and the current trial of former governor Yahaya Bello were among the convenient distractions.

But he didn’t need to hide in plain sight. His scandalous attempt to stretch a weak narrative betrayed his sinister motive.

It is not the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, who has invited the drama in former Governor Yahaya Bello’s case. I thought Aminu should know that. The governor, in a desperate attempt to avoid accountability at all costs by manipulating public perception, is responsible. I’m sorry for the Kogi people.

The incident of September 18, which Aminu pretends to be the basis of his article – and not his jaundiced view – was one of the series of well-scripted shenanigans executed by Bello, without shame and possibly with the collusion of fifth columnists, to undermine the former governor’s trial.

He has been charged, since April, with 19 counts of financial misconduct, including conspiring to divert public funds for personal gain. If he had any respect for the people of Kogi who elected him, he would have long submitted himself to court to answer these grave charges.

The EFCC, I believe, is determined to follow through with Bello’s trial. It does not need to be Aminu’s or anyone else’s tiger to do its job. The commission has recovered over N150 billion and secured over 2000 convictions in the last year. It cannot progress if it cherry-picks from Aminu, whose ethnic agenda and intention to instigate resentment in the commission are apparent but whose vested interests we don’t yet know.

It is shocking that a teacher who should have called out Bello’s disgraceful conduct at the premises of the EFCC is using the disgusting drama to advance his ethnic agenda at the commission and stir trouble within.

Alhaji Shahada Umar, Northern Region Coordinator of the GLOBAL PEACE MOVEMENT INTERNATIONAL (UK), writes from Kaduna State

Kano Govt approves conversion of Sa'adatu Rimi University to degree-awarding college of education

The Kano State Executive Council has approved the conversion of the Sa'adatu Rimi University of Education to Sa'adatu Rimi College of Education and maintained that it would remain a degree-awarding institution.

The decision to convert the university to a college of education was taken at the 18th sitting of the state’s executive council held on Sept. 18, 2024.

The state government said the development was aimed at enhancing the quality of education and maintaining effective management in the state’s higher education sector.

According to a statement signed by Baba Dantiye, the Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, and made available to newsmen on Tuesday, the decision followed an extensive consultation with key stakeholders.

It said the decision also followed the recommendation of a high-powered committee appointed by the state government to examine the university's status and devise a way to enhance its academic quality. 

It further stated that the committee's findings highlighted concerns from the academic and non-academic communities and other stakeholders regarding the potential negative impact of the initial college transition into a university. 

“These concerns include the risk of losing experienced lecturers, salary-related conflicts, and administrative challenges that could hinder the institution's operational efficiency. 

“The Council noted that several similar institutions across the country have successfully operated as colleges of education while offering a variety of degree programmes, without transforming into university status, under the “dual mode” introduced by the NCE-regulated body. 

“The conversion is expected to have no adverse effects on students, as the current undergraduates in the college will continue with their studies. 

“Also, the certificate of the university will be safely kept for future use. 

“Moreover, the institution will continue to offer both its traditional courses and additional degree programmes, in line with its newly expanded academic mandate,” the statement read.

Consequently, Gov. Abba Yussuf has approved the dissolution of university management with immediate effect and directed the vice chancellor to hand over the affairs of the former university to his most senior deputy, pending further announcements. 

“This strategic decision underscores the Kano State Government’s commitment to ensuring the stability and continued growth of its higher education institutions while addressing the concerns of stakeholders to maintain academic excellence and operational efficiency,” it read.

In Feb. 2023, the National Universities Commission (NUC) approved the licensing and upgrading of Sa'adatu Rimi College of Education to Sa'adatu Rimi University of Education towards the end of the previous administration.

$1million fraud: EFCC arrests syndicate impersonating Olukoyede

Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC) have arrested a four-man syndicate of alleged fraudsters impersonating and blackmailing the Executive Chairman of the Commission, Mr. Ola Olukoyede in a $1million deal.

This was made known in a statement signed by Dele Oyewale, Head, Media & Publicity and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Abuja.

The alleged fraudsters were named as: Ojobo Joshua, Aliyu Hashim, Thomas Oduh and Paul Ogiji were arrested on Wednesday, August 28, 2024 at Gimbiya Street, Garki and Apo Legislative Quarters, Abuja.

The commission said the alleged fraudsters contacted a former Managing Director of the Nigeria Port Authority, Mr. Mohammed Bello-Koko, claiming his indictment in some phony investigative activities of the EFCC during his tenure as the MD of NPA.

“They alleged that Olukoyede was ready to give him a soft landing for $1million or risk being arrested and prosecuted.

“On receipt of intelligence regarding the moves of the impersonators, operatives of the commission were deployed to play along with the alleged fraudsters. They were successfully arrested and in custody of the commission,” the statement read.

The commission said the alleged fraudsters would be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.

$1million fraud: EFCC arrests syndicate impersonating Olukoyede

Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC) have arrested a four-man syndicate of alleged fraudsters impersonating and blackmailing the Executive Chairman of the Commission, Mr. Ola Olukoyede in a $1million deal.

This was made known in a statement signed by Dele Oyewale, Head, Media & Publicity and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Abuja.

The alleged fraudsters were named as: Ojobo Joshua, Aliyu Hashim, Thomas Oduh and Paul Ogiji were arrested on Wednesday, August 28, 2024 at Gimbiya Street, Garki and Apo Legislative Quarters, Abuja.

The commission said the alleged fraudsters contacted a former Managing Director of the Nigeria Port Authority, Mr. Mohammed Bello-Koko, claiming his indictment in some phony investigative activities of the EFCC during his tenure as the MD of NPA.

“They alleged that Olukoyede was ready to give him a soft landing for $1million or risk being arrested and prosecuted.

“On receipt of intelligence regarding the moves of the impersonators, operatives of the commission were deployed to play along with the alleged fraudsters. They were successfully arrested and in custody of the commission,” the statement read.

The commission said the alleged fraudsters would be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.

Entrepreneurs Urged to Harness Business Opportunities Across Africa

...as stakeholders advocate adoption of Production Intelligence to drive businesses

Industry leaders and stakeholders have called on entrepreneurs and business leaders to explore and leverage the abundant business opportunities available within Africa for the continent’s overall development.

At the Marketplace Stakeholders Africa conference held on Friday in Abuja, with the theme; “Making Africa Work Through Productive Intelligence,” the host Mr. Manasseh Dogon emphasized the conference’s role as a blueprint for other African nations. He announced that the event would occur quarterly across various African countries.

“The primary aim of Marketplace Stakeholders Africa is to unite industry leaders under one roof to educate them on the upcoming developments in Africa. We’ve found through production intelligence that many opportunities in Africa remain uncoordinated. This conference provides an avenue for industry leaders to discover and maximize these opportunities,” said Mr. Dogon.

He highlighted the importance of self-management in overcoming business barriers. “We often place expectations on our leaders, but we must also take responsibility as businesspeople and individuals. It’s essential to view the world from a global perspective. Our efforts here will serve as a blueprint for other African countries, helping them to maximize their potential,” he added.

Dogon, a Disruptive Marketplace Mentor while delivering a lecture on “The Art of Production Intelligence,” said “the concept of production intelligence is basically the instinctual ability to use one's knowledge, past experience, information, understanding, insight, reasoning or set of skills to improve the African economy by intelligently inventing a brand, software, machine, robot artificial intelligence, product, or produce a service that can poker solution to specific real life problem.

He further explained that Marketplace Stakeholders Africa is a groundbreaking conference organized by Maime Innovation Foundation in collaboration with The Metropolitan Church. The event aims to bring together industry leaders, market experts, creatives, and innovators from various sectors across Africa.

“The conference will facilitate open dialogues with industry stakeholders and the press, addressing prevalent problems in their respective industries and offering contemporary solutions through production intelligence. This concept involves using one’s knowledge, past experience, insight, and skills to improve the African economy by innovating products, services, and technologies that address real-life problems within communities and markets,” he explained.

The event aims to expose young entrepreneurs, market leaders, students, and innovators to diverse industries from a global perspective, thereby creating an environment for investors to capitalize on untapped potential and resources throughout Africa.

Additionally, Mr. Ehiogie Osaigbovo, CEO of Enived Travels Limited, advised Nigerians to acquire employable skills rather than lamenting about unemployment.

This conference is set to travel to countries such as Ghana, Kenya, Rwanda, and South Africa, establishing a continental network for maximizing Africa’s business potential.

Why FBI Director Gray’s visit matters
 
By Kayode Adebiyi, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)
 
Contrary to the narrative of John Grisham’s fictional thriller, The Racketeer, this was a real-life, long-overdue gesture of genuine friendship and partnership, a testament to the shared interest in combating trans-border crimes that pose a significant global threat.
 
The visit of one of the longest-serving Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) directors, Mr. Christopher Wray, to Nigeria last week signalled a new era in cooperation between Nigeria and the United States.
 
With the increase in the growth and sophistication of trans-border crimes and criminal networks in such crimes as cybercrimes, online fraud, trafficking in illicit drugs and money laundering and illicit transactions, government agencies across the world are working closer for solutions.
 
Wray’s historic visit to Nigeria, marked by his courtesy calls on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Security Adviser Malam Nuhu Ribadu, was a significant milestone. This was not only his first visit to Africa in his seven years as FBI director but also a testament to the growing importance of Nigeria in the global fight against trans-border crimes.
 
Equally significant was Wray’s inaugural visit to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), where he held a crucial meeting with the Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede.
 
This meeting, the first of its kind, underscored the importance of international cooperation in combating trans-border crimes and the confidence in the EFCC's renewed anti-corruption efforts under Olukoyede's leadership.
 
There are perhaps a dozen anti-corruption agencies in Africa, notable among them the EFCC, the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Hawks; the Kenyan Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC); the Ghanian Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO); and the Sierra Leonean Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), among others. Wray, however, visited only two – the EFCC and the EACC.
 
Wray’s visit also aims to strengthen the partnership between the FBI and the EFCC. In his remark during the visit, Wray said, “We have had a relationship over the years, and this is a reflection of how stronger than ever we are looking forward to taking our partnership to higher and higher levels in tackling threats that affect the people of Nigeria and the people of the United States.”
 
In response, Olukoyede said in the fight against the “bad guys” and trans-border crimes, the Commission was “willing to continue and develop ideas that would be of mutual benefit to both agencies and ensure that the issue of cybercrime will take utmost priority in our scale of preference and also ensure that sextortion that has become a major challenge to us is taken very seriously.”
 
Wray’s visit takes on a special meaning in the context of statistics showing that apart from rising cybercrimes, illicit drugs and small arms, illicit financial flows also cost Africa around $88.6 billion yearly.
 
Security analysts hope a deeper collaboration between the FBI and the EFCC will improve capacity building and intelligence sharing.
 
And that means that the Malcolm Bannisters of this world, the fictional character in Grisham’s book, will have a hard time in the future. (NANFeatures)

**If used please credit the writer and News Agency of Nigeria

Vestance, 365 Farms Train Oyo Farmers On Modern Practices

Vestance Limited in collaboration with 365 Farms Limited have organised a training program for farmers in Sepeteri, Saki East Local Government, Oyo State to equip them with good agronomic practices to transform their farms and improve yields.

The one-day training, which took place at the Sepeteri Town Hall, was attended by resident farmers, community representatives, and the management of 365 Farms. 

Programme Manager at Vestance, Rildwan Bello emphasised the importance of empowering farmers with modern agronomic practices, stating, "Agriculture in Nigeria is still hampered by outdated practices, leading to low yields and limited market competitiveness. For example, while Nigerian farmers only manage to average two tonnes of maize per hectare, farmers in peer countries like Ethiopia and South Africa are doing more than four to five tonnes per hectare."
 
He said, “We are organising the training because we believe that Nigerian farmers can be as productive as their peers and by providing them with the necessary information and education on best agronomic practices, we can help them improve their farm yields, profitability and market competitiveness."
 
The training program is part of Vestance's initiative to support farmers in Nigeria and across Africa in a bid to unlock the full potential of agriculture. 
It covered topics including crop rotation, irrigation management, soil conservation, and value-addition techniques. 
Participating farmers were given the opportunity to share their experiences and challenges, and receive guidance from experienced agronomists.

Vestance is a Lagos-based consultancy firm dedicated to helping players in Africa’s agricultural sector unlock the full potential of agriculture.

Estate Firm, BigUncle Homes Launches Operation In Canada, US


...promises to prioritise locally manufactured products


Nigerian based real estate firm, BigUncle Homes is set to launch operations in Canada,  US in line with the national strategy of the government to boost exportation and reduce importation.


The move according to the firm aims to strengthen its brand, build global awareness and contribute to the Nigerian economy.


Managing Director of BigUncle Homes, Topsy Essien noted that the company will prioritise locally manufactured products from Nigeria in order to help local manufacturers and encourage exportation.


He also emphasised that the company will engage local content in its workforce.

"We will employ architects, project analysts, graphic designers, digital marketers from Nigeria to help create jobs for the youths."

The firm assured investors of high level of professionalism and timely delivery on projects.

Inflation: BigHomes Seeks Subsidy On Housing

Abuja real estate developer, BigHomes has decried the rising cost of building materials in the country, calling on the government to consider subsidising the housing sector.

In a chat with journalists, Big Homes Managing Director, Topsy Essien said the real estate sector is one of the worst hit by inflation in the country.

He said, “There is an urgent need for the government to assist home buyers and developers who have been hit by the excalating prices of building materials and economic downturns, by introducing some strategic subsidy to help keep the sector running.

“The present situation has made it hard for developers that operate the off-plan payment structure - a strategy that was modeled to make citizens pay for homes comfortably over a period of time. While payment plans extend to 2, 3 years , construction costs escalate tremendously almost on a daily basis, making it almost impossible to meet up on delivery.”

Essien maintained that the real estate sector over the years has created thousands of jobs and is a source of livelihood for many including lawyers, agents, facilitators, engineers, builders, traders, artisans, manufactures, miners, and many more.

He said if the sector suffers more hardship, the ripple effect is likely to affect other sectors connected to it.

“When developers can not build, artisans who have no other source of income besides putting their skills to hard labour may resort to crimes or other illegal activities to make ends meet."

He urged the government to consider subsidising the housing sector, adding that if properly and strategically implemented, could help stabilize the economy.

Open Letter to President Tinubu: Tunji-Ojo Needs Protection As Monstrous Passport Cabal Fights Back!
 
It’s not a coincidence. No. And we, members of the Renewed Hope Collective (RHC), saw it coming!
 
The moment the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made the bold decision to appoint Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo as Minister of Interior and the minister declared his intention to implement the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda without fear or favour, we knew he would get into trouble.
 
We didn’t know it would be so soon!
 
The monstrous passport cabal is after him for daring to break their stranglehold on long, deliberate delays in passport production, which was costing the country billions of dollars in foreign exchange but was hugely profitable to the cabal!
 
Tunji-Ojo belongs to an unenviable select group of change-makers who predictably would incur the wrath and ferocious resistance of the sectorial cabals profiting from the existing modus operandi in dire need of cleansing.
 
The minister reminds one of the late Chief Bola Ige, who promised to “turn stone into bread” in the power sector, having been appointed minister of power by former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Both his talk and walk suggested that he was, indeed, going to turn things around, but the powerful and desperate energy sector cabal frustrated his efforts until he was eased out.  
 
Another go-getter who had to fight her sectorial cabal tooth and nail was the late Prof. Dora Akunyili when she was the Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). There was nothing the cabal in the food and drug sector didn’t do either to sabotage her effort or eliminate her. Death threats, charms and attempted assassinations were regular occurrences just because the woman was determined to rid Nigeria of fake products.
 
Tunji-Ojo is their latest target!
 
The cabal has been making a mountain of the molehill of the alleged involvement of New Planet Project Limited in the award of contracts by the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Betta Edu.
 
They have smelt blood, and sharks that they are, they are coming for the Interior Minister!
 
Indeed, Tunji-Ojo founded the company 10 years ago, but he resigned from directorship in 2019 when he contested for the House of Representatives and has not been involved in the Management of the company since.
 
On a Channels TV programme on Monday night, he produced a Certified True Copy of Corporate Affairs Commission as far back as 2019 to prove this.
 
He is also NOT a signatory to the accounts of the company and his traducers have not shown any proof that he was a DIRECT beneficiary of the contract awarded to the company.
 
It is precisely to avoid a potentially legally untenable situation as envisaged in the civil service regulations that the Minister resigned his appointment in the company five years ago!
 
In only a few months since he was appointed minister, see the list of his achievements:

●   Elevated the Ministry of Interior from a mere public holiday-declaring office to a proper result-oriented supervising ministry.

●  Announced a two-week timeline for processing passport applications; promised the commencement of home and office delivery of passports to applicants from February 2024 and kept his promise and scored the first PR points for the government.

●  Threatened to commence the execution of the principle of reciprocity in international relations by halting the visa-on-arrival privilege granted foreign nationals whose countries subject Nigerians to rigorous visa application processes.

●  Commenced personal upload of passport photographs on NIS passport application portal; and established more e-passport offices in Europe.

●  Led the advocacy for fair compensation for paramilitary officers, insisting that their salaries must align with those of the Nigeria Police Force personnel

●  Commenced arrangements to set up a functional pension board for paramilitary personnel as a mechanism to secure their future.

●  Cleared fines and compensations worth N585 million for 4,068 inmates nationwide on account of their inability to pay their fines as penalties for crimes committed, all in an effort at prison decongestion.

●  Improved operational capacities of agencies and parastatals under his ministry to the extent that popular governance, policy and strategic management expert, Dr Joe Abah, documented the pleasant outcome of his random visit to the Nigeria Immigration Service headquarters.
 
The cabal is NOT blind! The cabal was to destroy what it fears – positive change!

The Renewed Hope Collective (RHC) wants the public to know that it’s the Passport Cabal that is behind the campaign of calumny against Tunji-Ojo! Nothing more, nothing less!
 
We urge President Tinubu, GCFR, to remain focused and steadfast in the implementation of this Renewed Hope Agenda, but to be mindful of beheaded snakes in the system who do not wish him and the country well!
 
This fight is bigger than Tunji-Ojo, bigger than his office, and bigger than the Ministry!
 
The President who sent him on this mission for renewed hope MUST protect him from a monstrous cabal that threatens to swallow him alive!
 
Renewed Hope Collective
Abuja (and in Diaspora)
13, Mungono Street
Kubwa
Abuja

Sanwo-Olu Commends GAMSU, LBS on Research Center

The Lagos state Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has stressed the importance of research in resolving the challenges of society, this is as he commended the Gamaliel and Susan Onosode Foundation (GAMSU) as well as the Lagos Business School on the newly commissioned International Management Research Center.
 
Speaking at the commissioning, Sanwo-Olu who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Bimbo Salu-Hudeyin, said the International Management Research Center in honor of the late Gamaliel Onosode and his wife, Susan is a testament that the African management landscape is ready to the shaped by its people rather than by external forces.
 
The governor noted that “The edifice stands as a tribute to the late Gamaliel Onosode enduring legacy of integrity excellence and commitment to shaping the future of management in Africa. The role of shaping Africa's management landscape speaks to the transformative power that thoughtful and rigorous research can have on the people, particularly on our continent.
 
“The LBS through this state-of-the-art research center reaffirms its commitment to contributing significantly to the intellectual capital that will shape the future of management in Africa and consequently impact our developmental strides. Research is the bedrock upon which progress is built.
 
“It illuminates the pathways challenging existing paradigms and providing insights needed to address and combat challenges facing our society. In the context of management, research becomes a compass guiding business, policymakers and institutions towards sustainable and impactful decisions.”
 
Chairman of GAMSU, Mr Moyo Ajekigbe whilst thanking the LBS in his opening remarks for putting the funding from the foundation to good use, said “It is my prayer that the center will serve the purpose for which it is being built which is to help the LBS in achieving its goal of capacity management while providing a world-class learning experience.
 
“I invite you to partner with GAMSU as a donor in fostering the success of the young ones through the provision of quality and affordable learning opportunities. Your donations will be used to support the projects that GAMSU is involved which include provisions in selected public schools, award of scholarships particularly to less privileged students and other social activities.
 
“We intend to achieve these through the GAMSU endowment fund and GAMSU school initiative/scholarship fund, by donating to the foundation you will be contributing to the improvement of the Nigerian children.
 
“We at GAMSU are delighted that our flagship project is being commissioned today. Gamaliel Onosode had a passion for quality education and this was what motivated him to establish GMANSU which was launched in May 2013.
Onosode had the Nigerian child in mind when he set up this foundation. But as a past president of the Institute of Management, he also believed that the provision of world-class executive education was a key requirement for the economic transformation of Nigeria, hence GAMSU’s partnership with the LBS.

“Onosode had a belief that his contribution to the country should be continuous and should outlive him. The international management research center that is being commissioned today is a part of that dream.

LBS is a strong brand and the Onosode brand is equally strong which stands on values such as integrity, hard work selflessness, patriotism and passion for excellence. The decision to partner with LBS was largely informed by the desire to work with an organization known for structure and excellence. The donation of N500 million to the center had 70 per cent from the family, 20 per cent from the foundation and 10 per cent from other donors.”

On his part, the dean of the Lagos Business School, Professor Chris Ogbechie speaking on the commissioning, said the Gamaliel and Susan Onosode International Management Research Center, which is worth more than N1 billion is a brilliant initiative towards improving management practice in Nigeria and Africa.

“This research centre houses all the research initiatives that help us to drive the practice of management in Nigeria and Africa. So that whatever we do, we can also help practitioners. So, all our research programmes and projects are impact-driven and most importantly, they are meant to help businesses, the public sector, social sector to succeed in the way they run their operations. That was a brilliant initiative because we all know what Gamaliel stood for and there is a synergy between his values and the values of the LBS.”

.

Sanwo-Olu Commends GAMSU, LBS On Research Center

The Lagos state Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has stressed the importance of research in resolving the challenges of society, this is as he commended the Gamaliel and Susan Onosode Foundation (GAMSU) as well as the Lagos Business School on the newly commissioned International Management Research Center.
 
Speaking at the commissioning, Sanwo-Olu who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Bimbo Salu-Hudeyin, said the International Management Research Center in honor of the late Gamaliel Onosode and his wife, Susan is a testament that the African management landscape is ready to the shaped by its people rather than by external forces.
 
The governor noted that “The edifice stands as a tribute to the late Gamaliel Onosode enduring legacy of integrity excellence and commitment to shaping the future of management in Africa. The role of shaping Africa's management landscape speaks to the transformative power that thoughtful and rigorous research can have on the people, particularly on our continent.
 
“The LBS through this state-of-the-art research center reaffirms its commitment to contributing significantly to the intellectual capital that will shape the future of management in Africa and consequently impact our developmental strides. Research is the bedrock upon which progress is built.
 
“It illuminates the pathways challenging existing paradigms and providing insights needed to address and combat challenges facing our society. In the context of management, research becomes a compass guiding business, policymakers and institutions towards sustainable and impactful decisions.”
 
Chairman of GAMSU, Mr Moyo Ajekigbe whilst thanking the LBS in his opening remarks for putting the funding from the foundation to good use, said “It is my prayer that the center will serve the purpose for which it is being built which is to help the LBS in achieving its goal of capacity management while providing a world-class learning experience.
 
“I invite you to partner with GAMSU as a donor in fostering the success of the young ones through the provision of quality and affordable learning opportunities. Your donations will be used to support the projects that GAMSU is involved which include provisions in selected public schools, award of scholarships particularly to less privileged students and other social activities.
 
“We intend to achieve these through the GAMSU endowment fund and GAMSU school initiative/scholarship fund, by donating to the foundation you will be contributing to the improvement of the Nigerian children.
 
“We at GAMSU are delighted that our flagship project is being commissioned today. Gamaliel Onosode had a passion for quality education and this was what motivated him to establish GMANSU which was launched in May 2013. Onosode had the Nigerian child in mind when he set up this foundation. But as a past president of the Institute of Management, he also believed that the provision of world-class executive education was a key requirement for the economic transformation of Nigeria, hence GAMSU’s partnership with the LBS.

“Onosode had a belief that his contribution to the country should be continuous and should outlive him. The international management research center that is being commissioned today is a part of that dream.

LBS is a strong brand and the Onosode brand is equally strong which stands on values such as integrity, hard work selflessness, patriotism and passion for excellence. The decision to partner with LBS was largely informed by the desire to work with an organization known for structure and excellence. The donation of N500 million to the center had 70 per cent from the family, 20 per cent from the foundation and 10 per cent from other donors.”

On his part, the dean of the Lagos Business School, Professor Chris Ogbechie speaking on the commissioning, said the Gamaliel and Susan Onosode International Management Research Center, which is worth more than N1 billion is a brilliant initiative towards improving management practice in Nigeria and Africa.

“This research centre houses all the research initiatives that help us to drive the practice of management in Nigeria and Africa. So that whatever we do, we can also help practitioners. So, all our research programmes and projects are impact-driven and most importantly, they are meant to help businesses, the public sector, social sector to succeed in the way they run their operations. That was a brilliant initiative because we all know what Gamaliel stood for and there is a synergy between his values and the values of the LBS.”

Insert: L-R: Dean of Lagos Business School (LBS) Prof Chris Ogbechie; Chairman Board of Trustees (BoT), GAMSU, Jacob Moyo Ajekugbe; Secretary to Lagos State Government, Barr Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, and member Board of Trustees, GAMSU, Ms Helen Oputu, during the official commissioning of Gamaliel & Susan Onosode International Research Management Centre building, at LBS Ajah, Lagos yesterday.

jeremy85:
Sanwo-Olu Commends GAMSU, LBS On Research Center

The Lagos state Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has stressed the importance of research in resolving the challenges of society, this is as he commended the Gamaliel and Susan Onosode Foundation (GAMSU) as well as the Lagos Business School on the newly commissioned International Management Research Center.
 
Speaking at the commissioning, Sanwo-Olu who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Bimbo Salu-Hudeyin, said the International Management Research Center in honor of the late Gamaliel Onosode and his wife, Susan is a testament that the African management landscape is ready to the shaped by its people rather than by external forces.
 
The governor noted that “The edifice stands as a tribute to the late Gamaliel Onosode enduring legacy of integrity excellence and commitment to shaping the future of management in Africa. The role of shaping Africa's management landscape speaks to the transformative power that thoughtful and rigorous research can have on the people, particularly on our continent.
 
“The LBS through this state-of-the-art research center reaffirms its commitment to contributing significantly to the intellectual capital that will shape the future of management in Africa and consequently impact our developmental strides. Research is the bedrock upon which progress is built.
 
“It illuminates the pathways challenging existing paradigms and providing insights needed to address and combat challenges facing our society. In the context of management, research becomes a compass guiding business, policymakers and institutions towards sustainable and impactful decisions.”
 
Chairman of GAMSU, Mr Moyo Ajekigbe whilst thanking the LBS in his opening remarks for putting the funding from the foundation to good use, said “It is my prayer that the center will serve the purpose for which it is being built which is to help the LBS in achieving its goal of capacity management while providing a world-class learning experience.
 
“I invite you to partner with GAMSU as a donor in fostering the success of the young ones through the provision of quality and affordable learning opportunities. Your donations will be used to support the projects that GAMSU is involved which include provisions in selected public schools, award of scholarships particularly to less privileged students and other social activities.
 
“We intend to achieve these through the GAMSU endowment fund and GAMSU school initiative/scholarship fund, by donating to the foundation you will be contributing to the improvement of the Nigerian children.
 
“We at GAMSU are delighted that our flagship project is being commissioned today. Gamaliel Onosode had a passion for quality education and this was what motivated him to establish GMANSU which was launched in May 2013. Onosode had the Nigerian child in mind when he set up this foundation. But as a past president of the Institute of Management, he also believed that the provision of world-class executive education was a key requirement for the economic transformation of Nigeria, hence GAMSU’s partnership with the LBS.

“Onosode had a belief that his contribution to the country should be continuous and should outlive him. The international management research center that is being commissioned today is a part of that dream.

LBS is a strong brand and the Onosode brand is equally strong which stands on values such as integrity, hard work selflessness, patriotism and passion for excellence. The decision to partner with LBS was largely informed by the desire to work with an organization known for structure and excellence. The donation of N500 million to the center had 70 per cent from the family, 20 per cent from the foundation and 10 per cent from other donors.”

On his part, the dean of the Lagos Business School, Professor Chris Ogbechie speaking on the commissioning, said the Gamaliel and Susan Onosode International Management Research Center, which is worth more than N1 billion is a brilliant initiative towards improving management practice in Nigeria and Africa.

“This research centre houses all the research initiatives that help us to drive the practice of management in Nigeria and Africa. So that whatever we do, we can also help practitioners. So, all our research programmes and projects are impact-driven and most importantly, they are meant to help businesses, the public sector, social sector to succeed in the way they run their operations. That was a brilliant initiative because we all know what Gamaliel stood for and there is a synergy between his values and the values of the LBS.”

Insert: L-R: Dean of Lagos Business School (LBS) Prof Chris Ogbechie; Chairman Board of Trustees (BoT), GAMSU, Jacob Moyo Ajekugbe; Secretary to Lagos State Government, Barr Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, and member Board of Trustees, GAMSU, Ms Helen Oputu, during the official commissioning of Gamaliel & Susan Onosode International Research Management Centre building, at LBS Ajah, Lagos yesterday.

Sanwo-olu Commends GAMSU, LBS On Research Center

The Lagos state Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has stressed the importance of research in resolving the challenges of society, this is as he commended the Gamaliel and Susan Onosode Foundation (GAMSU) as well as the Lagos Business School on the newly commissioned International Management Research Center.
 
Speaking at the commissioning, Sanwo-Olu who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Bimbo Salu-Hudeyin, said the International Management Research Center in honor of the late Gamaliel Onosode and his wife, Susan is a testament that the African management landscape is ready to the shaped by its people rather than by external forces.
 
The governor noted that “The edifice stands as a tribute to the late Gamaliel Onosode enduring legacy of integrity excellence and commitment to shaping the future of management in Africa. The role of shaping Africa's management landscape speaks to the transformative power that thoughtful and rigorous research can have on the people, particularly on our continent.
 
“The LBS through this state-of-the-art research center reaffirms its commitment to contributing significantly to the intellectual capital that will shape the future of management in Africa and consequently impact our developmental strides. Research is the bedrock upon which progress is built.
 
“It illuminates the pathways challenging existing paradigms and providing insights needed to address and combat challenges facing our society. In the context of management, research becomes a compass guiding business, policymakers and institutions towards sustainable and impactful decisions.”
 
Chairman of GAMSU, Mr Moyo Ajekigbe whilst thanking the LBS in his opening remarks for putting the funding from the foundation to good use, said “It is my prayer that the center will serve the purpose for which it is being built which is to help the LBS in achieving its goal of capacity management while providing a world-class learning experience.
 
“I invite you to partner with GAMSU as a donor in fostering the success of the young ones through the provision of quality and affordable learning opportunities. Your donations will be used to support the projects that GAMSU is involved which include provisions in selected public schools, award of scholarships particularly to less privileged students and other social activities.
 
“We intend to achieve these through the GAMSU endowment fund and GAMSU school initiative/scholarship fund, by donating to the foundation you will be contributing to the improvement of the Nigerian children.
 
“We at GAMSU are delighted that our flagship project is being commissioned today. Gamaliel Onosode had a passion for quality education and this was what motivated him to establish GMANSU which was launched in May 2013. Onosode had the Nigerian child in mind when he set up this foundation. But as a past president of the Institute of Management, he also believed that the provision of world-class executive education was a key requirement for the economic transformation of Nigeria, hence GAMSU’s partnership with the LBS.

“Onosode had a belief that his contribution to the country should be continuous and should outlive him. The international management research center that is being commissioned today is a part of that dream.

LBS is a strong brand and the Onosode brand is equally strong which stands on values such as integrity, hard work selflessness, patriotism and passion for excellence. The decision to partner with LBS was largely informed by the desire to work with an organization known for structure and excellence. The donation of N500 million to the center had 70 per cent from the family, 20 per cent from the foundation and 10 per cent from other donors.”

On his part, the dean of the Lagos Business School, Professor Chris Ogbechie speaking on the commissioning, said the Gamaliel and Susan Onosode International Management Research Center, which is worth more than N1 billion is a brilliant initiative towards improving management practice in Nigeria and Africa.

“This research centre houses all the research initiatives that help us to drive the practice of management in Nigeria and Africa. So that whatever we do, we can also help practitioners. So, all our research programmes and projects are impact-driven and most importantly, they are meant to help businesses, the public sector, social sector to succeed in the way they run their operations. That was a brilliant initiative because we all know what Gamaliel stood for and there is a synergy between his values and the values of the LBS.”

In Kano, ‘All Eyes on the Judiciary’ takes an interesting shape

By Kabiru Mohammed

Recently, the Director-General of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria, Dr Olalekan Fadolapo, ordered the removal of “All Eyes on the Judiciary” billboards nationwide.

The said advert had popped up in strategic parts of major cities in Nigeria amid anxiety as Nigerians await the judgement of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal (PEPT) sitting in Abuja.
However, instead of those peeping eyes being removed from matters at the PEPT in Abuja, they simply were shifted to another direction with even more fierce and rapt attention.

Speaking in open court before the commencement of the session on Tuesday, August 15, Chairman of the Kano State National and State Houses of Assembly Election Petition Tribunal, Justice Flora Ngozi Azinge, refocused those eyes back on the judiciary but this time in Kano State, when she expressed her anger over attempts by a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) to bribe her.

The judge lamented how senior lawyers particularly engage in unethical practices and specifically singled out a SAN who has a pending case before the tribunal. In the typical Nigerian way of expressing hurt and frustration, Justice Arinze placed a curse on those who she said were putting pressure on the tribunal by offering bribes to them and engaging them in media trials.

“A Senior Advocate of Nigeria who has a pending case before me is attempting to bribe me. Money has been flying in this tribunal since yesterday. Whoever collects money on my behalf, God will punish that person and his generation yet unborn — to the fourth generation.

“They keep abusing judges, insulting us every day in the papers, in the media — that we are taking bribes... Let me repeat again that nobody should approach me with money again. I’m contented with what God has given me, and I have a roof over my head,” she said.

Understandably, some SANs who have pending cases before the tribunal Arinze chairs urged the judge to name, shame and report their colleague, or else all of them would be potential suspects on the matter. 

That call prompted Justice Arinze to dial back, stating that she was not directly reached but was offered inducement by proxy.

“What I said was that there is an allegation that money is transferred to the account of an orderly of one of us and a tribunal staff by a lawyer. The said staff is currently under investigation on this matter. A lawyer attempted to bring meat for me during the Eid-El Kabir celebration which I declined and cautioned him that it is unethical.”

We understand her Lordship’s concern not to be misrepresented; but in this instance her clarification amounted to a distinction without a difference. Right-thinking people, especially in Kano, should be truly worried.

The Kano State government has already issued a statement, expressing concern that there are strong forces bent on upturning the outcome of the last governorship election in the state.

The Commissioner for Information, Baba Halilu Dantiye mni, said the alarm by Justice Arinze should not be swept under the carpet. Anyone who has followed the history of Kano politics in recent times will understand why. We were here before in 2019 when anti-democratic forces in the state suborned the will of the people and stole their mandate in daylight judiciary robbery.

Governor Yusuf Abba Kabir, who flew the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) flag during the last election, secured 1,019,602 votes to defeat his closest rival, Gawuna Nasiru Yusuf of the All Progressives Party (APC) who polled 890,705 votes.

The 35 percent turnout in that election was nearly 10 percent higher than the turnout the February 25 presidential election, according INEC records. And the outpouring of jubilation statewide that followed the announcement of the result of the governorship election is an indication of the governor’s acceptance and the peoples’ readiness to defend their mandate this time.

While all eyes are on the tribunal in Kano, there is also a searing side gaze in the direction of an influential member of the ruling APC from the state facing serious allegations of corruption and whose political elevation in spite of these charges has brought opprobrium to his party.

We wish her lordship will name names; but we understand the difficulty that she faces at this time and commend her courage for speaking up. It is heartening that in spite of everything, there are still judges with good conscience and integrity.
To strengthen the hands of Justice Azinge and the Panel, his Lordship the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, must take judicial notice of the concern expressed Her Lordship as indeed one also expects all right-thinking members of the NBA to do.

Those who think that their dollars will buy them Government House will be shocked to find that Kano of 2023 is not Kano of 2019!
We’re watching.

Kabiru Mohammed writes from Kano

2023 Elections: CSOs Demand Political Accountability, Present Research Report

21 Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) under the auspices "Joinbodi Cohort" have risen against the rising monetisation of the political process in Nigeria. The CSOs are seeking accountability from politicians and political parties to address the issue of monetisation of elections.

At the launch of a Research Report and Conference on Political Accountability & Elections in Nigeria, organised by Women’s Rights Advancement and Protection Alternative (WRAPA) and partners in Abuja Monday, May 22, the CSOs said Nigerians witnessed the most monetised political party primaries ever in the 2023 general elections.

Former Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) commissioner, Prof. Okey Ibeanu in his keynote address said media organizations, CSOs and traditional rulers are as important as INEC in ensuring the accountability of elected officials.

According to him; "Political accountability has gained global significance because of awareness creation by several developing countries. There is a great affinity between democracy and accountability. The demand is for political officials to be responsive to the people. A major tenet of political accountability is that the leaders are answerable to the people for their actions and inactions while in office.

Prof Ibeanu said if the demand side of political accountability is flawed, the supply side will also be flawed, including the INEC, CSOs, media and other stakeholders that are supposed to supervise elections. He however urged stakeholders to come together to hold political leaders accountable if the country must make progress.

On her part, Secretary General, Women’s Rights Advancement and Protection Alternative (WRAPA), Hajiya Saudatu Mahdi, said the launch of the report is important to guide the incoming administration towards fulfilling the mandates of their offices as executive officers and National Assembly members.

She said the launch of the research report was supposed to have been held before the 2023 general elections, but was postponed as a result of unforeseen circumstances. “It is important that it is happening now before the swearing-in of the executives, National Assembly and states house of assembly members.

"It's a week to the handover date, so we want to call the attention of the incoming political actors to what is expected of them. As "Joinbodi", we have created a cohort to hold the duty-bearers accountable to the people who elected them, especially the executive and legislative arms of government. We are to speak to the incoming government and to chart the way forward for the development of the country."

Emir of Bungudu, Zamfara State, Hassan Attahiru speaking to journalists on the role of traditional rulers said, “As fathers of the people, we are very much interested in how well our people are governed, and it naturally starts with good and credible elections.

“For us to have a credible election, everybody must play their part. The people, those seeking office, the government, INEC, civil societies, and pressure group must play their part, when we do that is when we’ll have credible elections and leaders will feel accountable to the people, where they will give the dividends of democracy.”

On how to enlighten the people to demand accountability from their leaders, He said “We must begin to tell the people to ensure they state the margins, by telling the political leaders what they want in terms of community development not just what they want in their pockets. The people must shun primordial needs.”

 
Recommendations to INEC, Government, Political Parties, Media and CSOs

The research report in its recommendations on political accountability and financing, called on Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to implement more transparent, accountable and accessible campaign finance monitoring, tracking, and reporting mechanisms in line with international best practices.

Also, create a central database that tracks all political donations and expenditures made by political parties and their candidates, which is accessible to the public.

Monitor, investigate, and enforce compliance with electoral laws, including the political financing regulations.

For political parties, it said there is a need to establish internal controls to ensure transparency, accountability, and proper management of political donations and expenditures, while also submitting financial reports regularly and in a timely manner, detailing their donations and expenditures.

It tasked the government to increase funding for INEC to enable it to carry out its responsibility effectively. Also, regulate the prices of nomination forms and reduce the cost of running for office, which would reduce the incentive to engage in corrupt practices.

The civil society organisations it said, should collaborate with INEC to monitor political financing activities and report violations to the appropriate authorities. Establish an Electoral Offences Watch to monitor political financing violations and report them to relevant authorities.

It recommended that the media should play a more active role in investigating and reporting on political financing violations, in addition to just reporting on campaign activities.

The report also urged the media to report the source of funding for political advertisements to promote transparency and accountability. Provide in-depth analysis and scrutiny of campaign financing reports submitted by political parties and their candidates, and also conduct regular public education campaigns on political financing regulations, including highlighting the negative consequences of violations for the democratic process.

The 21 CSOs include WRAPA, SERAP, CITAD, CISLAC, PLAC, IRIAD, HEDA Resource Center, NOIPolls, CODE, CHRICED, Public and Private Development Centre, ARDP, Shehu Musa YarAdua Foundation, BudgIT, Social Action, Partners United, AFRICMIL, Community Life Project and MacArthur Foundation.