Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City 

The Edo State Government has declared Friday, September 20, a work-free day to enable its workers and other electorate travel to their voting areas ahead of Saturday’s governorship election in the state.

In a statement, the Secretary to the Edo State Government, Joseph Eboigbe, assured residents of the state that security measures have been provided to ensure a free, fair and credible election.

The statement read: “It is hereby announced for the information of the general public that the Edo State Government has declared Friday, September 20, a work-free day in Edo State.

“This is to enable workers and other electorate travel to their voting areas ahead of the September 21 governorship election in the state.

“Government wishes everyone journey mercies and reassures that security measures have been provided to ensure a free, fair and credible election.”

* As Coca-cola pledges to invest $1bn in Nigeria’s economy over a five-year period

Deji Elumoye in Abuja 

President Bola Tinubu has declared that his government was commited to creating a robust financial system and a business-friendly economy that will attract more foreign direct investments. 

The president stated this on Thursday in Abuja, as the Coca-Cola Company announced plans to invest $1 billion in Nigeria over the next five years. 

The announcement was made at a meeting between the president and the global leadership team of Coca-Cola Company, led by its President and Chief Financial Officer, Mr John Murphy, and the Chairman of Nigerian Bottling Company, Ambassador Segun Apata. 

President Tinubu commended Coca-Cola for its long-standing partnership with Nigeria and for promoting investment opportunities that have employed over 3,000 people across nine production facilities. 

According to the president, “We are business-friendly, and as I said at my inauguration, we must create an environment of easy-in and easy-out for businesses.  

”We are building a financial system where you can invest, re-invest and repatriate all your dividends. I have a firm belief in that.”

President Tinubu told the delegation that private sector partnerships, which sustain investments, are central to his government’s far-reaching reforms to improve the business environment. 

He pledged that his government would continue partnering with Coca-Cola to expand investments in Nigeria and address environmental issues, including climate change. 

”The size of this country is enormous in Africa, and the consumption capacity of Nigeria is expanding daily,” President Tinubu added while commending the company for scaling up its skill development and community initiatives as part of its corporate social responsibility. 

Speaking earlier while presenting an overview of Coca-Cola’s business in Nigeria, Murphy noted that the company generates N320 billion annually through nearly 300,000 customers and contributes almost N90 billion in revenue to the Nigerian government. 

He said: “We are very proud of the growth of the business over a long period and its impact on the daily lives of many Nigerians. 

”Beyond the financial impacts, we are also very committed to supporting the communities, and over the last number of years, we’ve had a special focus on several areas in the world of sustainability, water packaging and others.”

Also speaking, the CEO of Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling Company, Mr Zoran Bogdanovic, explained that the company’s confidence in the Nigerian government policies had encouraged it to make the $1 billion investment pledge. 

He said: ”Mr President, in your inaugural address, we were very pleased to hear of your invitation for foreign investors to invest and your assurance that foreign businesses can repatriate dividends and profits. 

”That assurance gives us the confidence to continue our investments. Since 2013, we have invested $ 1.5 billion in Nigeria in capacity expansion, transformation of our supply chain infrastructure capabilities, training and development. 

”I am very pleased to announce that, with a predictable and enabling environment in place, we plan to invest an additional  $1 billion over the next five years. 

”We believe Nigeria’s potential is tremendous, and we are committed to working with the government to realise this potential.”

Ahead of Saturday’s governorship election in Edo State, the leader and presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the 2023 general election, Prince Adewole Adebayo, has debunked the rumours making the rounds that the party’s candidate in the state, Anerua Abdulai Aliu,

has stepped down.

On the contrary, he said its party candidate has not and will never step down for any candidate or party.

Adebayo, in his official X(former twitter) handle @Pres-Adebayo, said the people should not be deceived by the All Progressives Congress (APC) propaganda and its disastrous economic policy that brought sorrow tears and hunger in the land.

“Voters and general public in the Edo gubernatorial election slated for Saturday, 21 September, 2024 should not be deceived by @OfficialAPCNg and its desperate propaganda. @TheSDPNg has not and will not step down for a political party whose disastrous economic policy is sorrow tears and hunger. We stand by our candidate and our manifesto of Farewell to Poverty and Insecurity,” he said. 

Given the economic situation in the land, Adebayo said whoever can spare a finger to thumbprint for APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) should have his or head re-examined. 

For him, “Any voters lamenting over poverty, insecurity, hunger, unemployment, inflation, hardship and injustice who still can spare a finger to thumbprint for @OfficialAPCNg or @OfficialPDPNig need to reexamine the connection between their brains and their fingers”.

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja 

Ahead of Saturday’s governorship election in Edo State, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has warned all political parties that all campaigns end by midnight Thursday, September 19, 2024. 

The INEC National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, in a statement Thursday, therefore, urged parties, candidates and their supporters to take note of the provisions of the law for compliance.

He said: “The commission wishes to remind political parties that in line with Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, and item 12 of the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2024 Edo State Governorship election, all campaigns by political parties end at midnight today, Thursday 19th September 2024. 

“It is therefore illegal for any political party in Edo State to engage in rallies, processions or media campaigns from midnight today. These prohibitions, including sanctions, are provided for in Section 96 of the Electoral Act 2022.

“Similarly, on Election Day, Saturday 21st September 2024, parties, candidates and their supporters should not appear at the polling units in their campaign attires or carry any campaign materials with them.”

Linus Aleke in Abuja 

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has tasked graduating cadets of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) to be ready to meet the high expectations of the Armed Forces of Nigeria by bracing up to play their part towards resolving contemporary security challenges.

He also enjoined the cadets to be determined to make a difference, not only through bravery in battle but also by mastery of the tools and innovations that are reshaping modern warfare.

Abubakar gave the charge to the cadets in his remarks as the special guest of honour at the NDA 2024 Beating of the Retreat and Prize Giving ceremony which held at the NDA Parade Ground, Afaka. 

A statement by the Deputy Director, Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, Group Captain Kabiru Ali, said the CAS reminded the graduating cadets of 71 Regular Course and Direct Short Service Course 28 Army and 32 Air Force that considerable resources had been invested into building their capacity and shaping their character development through quality military training and a sound academic foundation.

He called on the cadets to always put the nation first, and give their best in the defence of her territorial integrity and protection of the people. 

“As you prepare to be commissioned as officers, remember that the hopes and aspirations of our country rest on your shoulders. Therefore, it is time to ask not what your country can do for you but what you can do for your country,” the CAS said. 

Abubakar commended the commandant and staff of the NDA for upholding the time-honoured tradition of the Beating of the Retreat, which symbolizes the end of the training year. 

The CAS, who congratulated the award-winning cadets and battalions, urging them to continue striving for excellence, also reminded them about the importance of integrity, loyalty and courage in their service to the nation.

Earlier, Abubakar inspected ongoing infrastructural projects at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Base Kaduna, providing strategic guidance to ensure qualitative and timely project outcomes. 

He also toured newly upgraded facilities at the NDA Air Force Wing, where he lauded the improvements aimed at supporting the training of future officers. 

While there, the CAS engaged in a robust interactive session with NAF officers, airmen, and airwomen serving at the NDA. 

He commended their dedication to duty and urged them to sustain the high standards of excellence and professionalism for which the NAF is known.

* Adjourns till November 4

Alex Enumah in Abuja 

A three-member panel of justices of the Court of Appeal in Abuja, on Thursday permitted the Federal Government and former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Walter Onnoghen, to resolve the dispute surrounding his sack outside of the court.

The administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari had in 2019, suspended Onnoghen from office, paving the way for his arraignment and subsequent trial on alleged false declaration of assets at the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT).

The tribunal later convicted Onnoghen, had his assets forfeited and barred from holding public office.

Although, the former CJN had immediately approached the appellate court to challenge his suspension and subsequent prosecution, hearing in the appeal did not commence until recently.

At Thursday’s proceedings, although Chief G. U. K. Igwe, (SAN) announced appearance for Onnoghen, however, Chief James Ogwu Onoja (SAN), who argued the appeal, informed the court that parties have been having “several meetings” since the last court’s sitting, towards resolving the issue out of the court.

Onoja therefore prayed the panel to adjourn the appeal for another one month for parties to reach an agreement. 

His submission was corroborated by Mr Tijani Gazali (SAN), the lawyer representing the Federal Government.

Responding, Justice J. O. Oyewole, who led the three-member panel, while commending the parties for efforts at resolving the issue, directed that parties file a term of settlement in the event of an agreement.

He however adjourned till November 4 for hearing.

At the last proceedings on August 20, the office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, had informed the appellate court that the office was yet to take possession of the case file of Onnoghen from the former lawyer handling the case.

When the matter was called, Onnoghen’s lawyer, Chief Chris Uche (SAN), had informed the court of his readiness for hearing but, Gazali noted that the respondent was not because it was yet to take possession of the case file from a private lawyer, who prosecuted on behalf of the Federal Government.

According to the senior lawyer, the trial of the former CJN was contracted to a Kano-based private lawyer, Aliyu Umar (SAN), who is now late.

Gazali therefore appealed to the court to grant an adjournment to enable the government to approach the chambers of the late private lawyer to retrieve necessary documents to respond to the appeal.

According to him, virtually all the processes served on the AGF in 2019 were taken to a private lawyer.

Besides, Gazali said that the matter was being looked into from another perspective with a view to working out an amicable resolution of issues in dispute by the new AGF.

Responding, Uche pointed out to the court that some documents were actually served on the AGF office and acknowledged.

Uche appealed to the court to allow him to move an application for an accelerated hearing, which was granted since there was no objection from the Federal Government.

Justice C. I. Jombo Ofo, who presided over the matter, granted an accelerated hearing and subsequently fixed September 19 for the hearing of the appeal.

Deji Elumoye in Abuja 

President Bola Tinubu will not attend the 79th United Nations General Assembly session in New York this year. 

Rather, Vice-President Kashim Shettima will lead Nigeria’s delegation to the annual summit next week.

In a statement issued Thursday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the president has thus directed Vice-President Shettima to lead Nigeria’s delegation. 

According to the release, President Tinubu, who returned to the country last Sunday after his trip to China and the United Kingdom, wants to focus on domestic issues and address some of the country’s challenges, especially after the recent devastating flooding.

At UNGA 79, Shettima will deliver Nigeria’s national statement to the General Assembly, attend important sideline events and hold bilateral meetings.

The high-level general debate, with the theme ‘Leaving no one behind: Acting together for the advancement of peace, sustainable development and human dignity for present and future generations,’ will run from Tuesday, September 24, through Saturday, September 28, 2024.

Toronto-based artist Sty-Low, with roots in Ivory Coast, Cameroon and France, is on a mission to inspire and empower the next generation of artists through his unique, provanity-free approach to music. “I want to empower young artists from my various roots and here in North America,” Sty-Low said. “You don’t need to rely on explicit content to reach people or to express yourself.”

Sty-Low believes in the power of authenticity, aiming to set a positive example for emerging artists. “The key is staying authentic while creating music that leaves a lasting impact,” he explained. His music underscores the notion that creativity and meaningful expression don’t require compromising one’s values. “I want young artists to realize that they can explore new musical territories without losing who they are at their core.”

Beyond his own music, Sty-Low is dedicated to supporting youth and emerging talent locally in Toronto and back home. He is actively involved in projects that provide aspiring artists with opportunities for mentorship. “It’s not just about making music. It’s about building a movement where artists know they can succeed on their terms, without giving in to stereotypes,” he said.

Raised amidst a mix of musical influences, Sty-Low’s career is shaped by his commitment to blending genres while delivering a message that avoids the pitfalls of explicit content. “We don’t need to shock people to be heard. There’s power in restraint,” he noted, emphasizing his goal to leave a lasting, positive legacy in the music industry.

His vision extends to his community, where he works to create opportunities for young artists who may feel constrained by their circumstances. Through performances and collaborations, Sty-Low is opening doors for the next wave of talent. “I see myself in these kids. I want them to know they can create something meaningful, no matter where they come from.”

Ultimately, Sty-Low is on a mission to inspire artists to create fearlessly and authentically, while challenging industry norms. By promoting profanity-free music accessible to all audiences, he aims to redefine success for himself and for future generations. “Music should unite us, not divide us. That’s the legacy I want to leave,” he concluded.

Vanessa Obioha 

The American hip-hop mogul Sean Combs has been arrested on Monday in Manhattan according to multiple American media outlets. Combs, also known as P.Diddy, was taken into custody after a grand jury indicted him. NBC News reported that he was arrested in a hotel lobby.

The news outlet also reported that his arrest was confirmed by the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Damian Williams, in a post on X.

“Earlier this evening, federal agents arrested Sean Combs, based on a sealed indictment filed by the SDNY.  We expect to move to unseal the indictment in the morning and will have more to say at that time.

While the charges of the indictment remain unclear, a statement from his legal team described Combs as an imperfect person but not a criminal.

“We are disappointed with the decision to pursue what we believe is an unjust prosecution of Mr. Combs by the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” RollingStone reported.

“Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs is a music icon, self-made entrepreneur, loving family man, and proven philanthropist who has spent the last 30 years building an empire, adoring his children, and working to uplift the Black community. He is an imperfect person but he Is not a criminal.

“To his credit, Mr. Combs has been nothing but cooperative with this investigation and he voluntarily relocated to New York last week in anticipation of these charges. Please reserve your judgment until you have all the facts. These are the acts of an innocent man with nothing to hide, and he looks forward to clearing his name in court.”

Combs has been under federal investigation since March this year. His legal troubles began when his former girlfriend Casandra Ventura, popularly known as Cassie, filed a lawsuit last November accusing him of years of sexual and physical abuse. Although the music businessman settled through suit with Ventura within a day, more lawsuits alleging sexual and physical abuse as well as sex trafficking have been filed by other women.

On March 25, federal agents raided Combs’s homes in Los Angeles and Miami Beach, Florida. His electronic devices were reportedly confiscated after he was stopped at a Miami-area airport. 

The New York Times reported that authorities made no announcements at the time, but a federal official said the inquiry was at least in part a human trafficking investigation.

Although he denied the allegations in the lawsuits while his lawyers described the raids as “a gross overuse of military-level force,” Combs was back in the spotlight in May after CNN released a hotel surveillance footage showing Combs physically assaulting Ventura. Combs would later apologize in a video but the damage to his reputation almost seemed irredeemable.

He reportedly sold his stake in Revolt, the media company he founded, and his share of DeLeón tequila, a partnership with the spirits conglomerate Diageo. A New York charter school network ended its partnership with him. Also, his mansion in the Holmby Hills neighbourhood of Los Angeles, where federal agents carried out a raid in March, was listed on the real estate market for $61.5 million this month.

James Emejo in Abuja

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) which measures change in prices of goods and commodities declined to 32.15 per cent in August compared to
33.40 per cent in the preceding month, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said Monday.

The NBS attributed the 1.25 per cent drop in the headline index to moderation in food and commodity prices.

According to the CPI figures for the review period, year-on- year, however, inflation was 6.35 per cent higher compared to 25.80 per cent in August 2023.

Month-on-month, headline inflation dropped to 2.22 per cent compared to 2.28 per cent in July.

Details later…

*Gombe govt donates N50m to support victims of Mafa terror attack, flood disaster in YobeSegun Awofadeji in Bauchi

Governors of the six states of the North-east subregion have been called upon to place premium attention to issues of women and children in their respective states by way of adequate budgeting for child-sensitive sectors.

This is as Gombe State government has donated N50 million to help victims of the recent terror attack in Mafa, Tarmuwa Local Government Area and the devastating flood disaster in Yobe State.

The call was made by stakeholders in the affairs of budgeting in the six states of Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba and Yobe, stressing the importance of adequately capturing issues of child’s right in annual allocations.

The stakeholders made the submission on Thursday, during a panel discussion at a two-day North-East Nigeria Zonal Policy Dialogue on Social Budgeting for Child Sensitive Sectors in Gombe.

During the panel discussions anchored by the UNICEF, Bauchi Field Office Communications Officer, Opeyemi Olagunju, the stakeholders from the six states of Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba and Yobe as well as specialist from the UNICEF, agreed that the annual allocations for child sensitive sectors will translate to a better future.

They particularly stressed that policies of education, health, nutrition (exclusive breastfeeding, good dieting) and WASH must be adequately provided and implemented for a healthy future.

Each of the discussants who included commissioners and permanent secretaries, are of the opinion that states must go back to domesticate the social protection policy and strengthen it.
They unanimously agreed that with domestication of the social protection policy, the negatives of child abuse most particularly neglect will be reduced to the barest minimum.
The panelists however expressed fear about whole implementation of the social protection policy pleading with the relevant stakeholders in child protection issues to see to its domestication and implementation.

They expressed optimism that if child sensitive sectors are adequately captured in the budget and allocation promptly released, the problem of insecurity will reduce.

According to them, the Almajiri syndrome will be drastically taken care of just as the out-of-school children syndrome too will be addressed adequately.

The panelists concluded by calling on the governors of the six states of the North-east subregion to support proposals on children issues from the relevant Ministries by not seeing such as duplication.

They stated that each MDAs has a specific role in the life of the child which are different from each but having same purpose of ensuring the growth and development of the child.

Olagunju while moderating the discussion, stressed that UNICEF is ever ready to support any move that will increase access for women and children to good living in line with the relevant convention.

Meanwhile, Gombe State government has donated N50 million to help victims of the recent terror attack in Mafa, Tarmuwa Local Government Area and the devastating flood disaster in Yobe State.

In a gesture of solidarity and compassion, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya sent a high-level delegation led by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Manassah Daniel Jatau, to Yobe State to convey the heartfelt condolences and support of the government and people of Gombe State.

This was contained in a statement issued yesterday by Ismaila Uba Misilli,Director-General (Press Affairs),Government House,Gombe.

Governor Yahaya expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident in the community, calling it “both sad and unfortunate.”

“We stand with you in this moment of grief, as you face the double tragedy of the attack on Mafa community and the devastating floods that claimed lives and destroyed homes and farmlands across the state,” he stated.

He said the N50 million donation is to help the state government in providing much-needed assistance to the affected victims.

Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni, while receiving the delegation, expressing profound appreciation for the support.

He described the visit as a demonstration of a strong bond of brotherhood and love between Gombe and Yobe states.

Governor Buni emphasised that while the financial aid will significantly help the victims, the act of solidarity and care in such trying times will be remembered as a remarkable show of unity between the two neighbouring states.

The governor noted that the donation and the visit are not only a source of immediate relief but also a lasting symbol of the friendship and cooperation between the people of Gombe and Yobe.

The Gombe delegation included Speaker of the Gombe State House of Assembly, Hon. Abubakar Mohammed Luggarewo; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi; Commissioner for Finance and Economic Development, Muhammad Gambo Magaji; Commissioner for Local Government and Community Development, Abdulkadir Mohammed Warizi; Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Lt. Col. Abdullahi Bello (Rtd.); Hon. Nasiru Abdullkareem, representing Dukku North Constituency in the Gombe State House of Assembly; and the Executive Secretary of Gombe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Abdullahi Haruna Abdullahi. 

By Okey Ikechukwu

Every 42 adult today was not born when the man who left this works while serving Ndigbo as President General of Ohaneze was at the peak of is visibility in business, national politics, the aviation sector, the media, the construction industry, sports and much more. How many today know, or would believe, that he put two million dollars of his hard earned money into the building and development of Imo Airport? Who today remembers Oriental Airlines, the Iwuanyanwu Narionale football team, Hardel and Enic Construction Company and much more?

He lived a full life, for himself and for his Igbo people. He left this life serving them as a rallying voice and a rousing pillar of influence. That is why it would make sense to speak of him as one the the people’s Ijele of note inAla Igbo.

But let us note, for the record, that the Ijele is not just a masquerade; no! There is no such thing as the Ijele Masquerade in the real sense of the term. Igbos have  big and small masquerades. There are many of them. But the Ijele is not one of the masquerades. It is not a big masquerade. And that is because it is Ijele: and Ijele cannot be anything other than what it is, namely, Ijele.

As was once said here long ago: There are masquerades and then there is the Ijele. The latter does not dance for money because it is sufficient unto itself. It does not try to entertain anyone, because that is beneath its dignity. It does not ask anyone to get out of the way when it is coming, because it cannot contemplate that anything would possible want to stand in its way. It expects, and knows, that people would know what to do.

Yes, the average person considers it an honour to help clear the way when he hears (even before confirming) that the Ijele is approaching. That is why its ‘presence’ always precedes it. Who, or what, will stand in the way when the ijele is afoot? It is just not done!

The Ijele does not ask the big and small masquerades to leave the Village Square when it wants to enter. They have to. They are not the Ijele. They are masquerades and that is the essential difference. The Ijele must take pre-eminence as a matter of course. And, mind you, there is no question of arrogance or preposterous self-inflationsion here. It is the nature of the Ijele to live thus.

So do not expect that it would acknowledge the cheer and applause of the crowd, no. Do not also expect that it would genuflect and thank anyone for getting out of the way as it approaches. Absurd!  There is no contemptuous air of superiority on display here no. It is just the natural majesty conferred on the Ijele by its very identity, as well as the triumph of the Aristocratic Principle of Nature.

 The Ijele’s majesty is inherent in, and internal to, it. What can you give to Ijele? How would you even approach it in order to bestow anything on it? Who are you to enter the square while it walks the square? Please note this: there are masquerades and then there is the ijele!

In all matters affecting Igboland and Ndigbo everywhere, on questions people of group cohesion, selfless service and the values of community leadership, the late Ahaejiagamba stood head and shoulders above many of his contemporaries. He was a remarkable man in every sense of the word, warts and all. But back to masquerades In Igboland.

Most Igbo masquerades serve many social purposes in the traditional Igbo society and are often the audio-visual aids used by society to embody some core, moral and cultural values. The Agbogho nmanwu, for instance, is the physical embodiment of the most graceful maidenly beauty. Dainty, beautiful, calm and exquisitely womanly in every sense of the word, its form and dance steps may be called a living admonition for any woman who tends towards any form of brashness.

The Ulaga, Oji onu and a few others are the entertainment masquerades; while Agaba, Okwonma, Ike Udo represent uncontrolled manly strength and youthful rascality respectively. Onuku (the fool) represents degenerate manhood and is so degenerate in appearance that every pregnant woman would do anything to avoid sighting, or being reminded of, this masquerade throughout the period of pregnancy. It is only Onuku that fights with women, or enters the village square from obscure corners and sneaks up to unsuspecting women to take liberties with some parts of their anatomy. Yes masquerades have great moral, epistemological, educational and political values in Igboland.

But the Ijele is royalty embodied! That is why it is laden with choices gem on the few occasions it comes out. A yearly appearance for the Ijele is out of the question, because royalty is never part of the evening and morning market rush.

And it is within this context of the Ijele that we must locate some aspects of the profile, life and times of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu. The title of “Ahaejiagamba” refers to one whosw name gives Right of Passage when mentioned even in foreign lands. Such a person is an institution in his own right, but not for himself. The title is presumed to speak of one in whom the essence of influence, credibility and social leverage is most meaningfully embodied and who also ‘bodies it forth’ without apologies, without reservations and without being afraid of his own voice!

Can this be said of the late Iwuanyanwu? The answer is a resounding yes! He represented some of the best, and also even the somewhat questionable, attributes of the Igbo man. Industry, courage (even daredevilry, disarming candour and an occasional bluntness that sometimes makes others look for a fire extinguisher.

Ahaejiagamba wanted justice, dignified visibility and relevance for his people. He would not keep quiet when he knew he should speak out. That is why tributes will pour in, as Ndigbo prepare to bury the remains of their immediate past President General. The ceremomies are bound to come. But Ndigbo must also use the occasion to ask themselves deep and searching questions. How many people do they have in the public space who are living for either a cause, or for others?

I can imagine what Ahaejiagamba would probably have done back in1966, after the Northern offices staged a counter coup against Ironsi’s government. With the anger against people of the South East, and as Ndigbo were killed in all the provincial capitals of Northern Nigeria except one, which is Mubi, he probably would have mobilized everyone he knew within and outside Nigeria to push for nationalization of the Mubi example.

When Ndigbo were being murdered wantonly in other cities of the North, late Alhaji Isa Ahmadu the father of the current Emir, invited all the town elders to a meeting and reminded them that the Igbo people in Mubi were brothers and that no harm should come to them. They were all invited to the palace where their safety was assured. Vehicle owners were made to surrender their vehicles to be used to convey Ndigbo to Bourha Susprefecture of the Republic of Cameroun.

Before leaving, they were all made to write out their properties down to the chicken on free range. Selected elders were given custody of such property. After the war, all those who survived and returned to Mubi collected their property with rent accrued and the cost of animals sold. There is no incident of Abandoned property in Mubi. Even those who did not return had their family members traced and given their property.

Today Mubi stands proudly one place in Nigeria where every Nigerian can safely call home. The Igbo and Yoruba populations have representation at the highest decision making bodies of the town. When a Northerner and Engineer Udeogwu contested for the post of Rector Federal Polytechnic Mubi, the townsfolk including prominent traditional title holders backed Engineer Udeogwu.

Today, with the full backing of the people of the town, an Igbira Man from Kogi state is the Rector because he was there for some time and considered a son of Mubi in the true tradition of the town. And what Mubi is today is what Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu would have loved to bestow on the Federal Republic of Nigeria as his legacy. He was a people’s Ijele

Prof Ikechukwu is Chairman of the Publicity Committee for the Burial of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The federal government has declared next Monday as public holiday to mark the celebration of the Eid-ul-Mawlid, the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).
The Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who made the declaration on behalf of the federal government, congratulated Muslim Ummah both at home and in the Diaspora on this occasion.
Tunji-Ojo urged the Muslim Ummah and by extension Nigerians to imbibe the spirit of patience, sacrifice and resilience.
The minister while congratulating the Muslim Ummah on the occasion, implored them to use the opportunity of the period to pray for enduring peace and a more prosperous egalitarian nation.

Victoria Ojiako

The Nigerian Navy has urged Nigerians, especially musical artistes, to capitalise on the unifying power of music to foster a peaceful society.
This appeal was made at the Nigerian Navy Band annual conference themed: ‘Fostering a peaceful society in Nigeria through the power of music’ held at the Nigerian Navy Music School (NNMS), Ota, Ogun State.
In his welcome address, the acting Director of Music, Captain Simon Ubandoma, said the conference, which brought together musicologists from the Armed Forces, other security agencies and the academia, was designed to leverage the power of music to foster sustainable peace in the community and country.
Setting pace for discussions, the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, urged participants to churn out useful recommendations and suggestions that would enable the NN Directorate of Music do more especially in primary and secondary schools.
He noted the need for the directorate to establish its steel bands in more schools where pupils can develop interest in the tool and from there they can be moulded to become patriotic musical artists as they grow up.
Ogalla who was represented by the Chief of Administration, Rear Admiral Kennedy Ezete, acknowledged that music can be used to not only tell unifying stories and history but to also keep the young ones busy and out of trouble.
Calling for restraint and self-discipline among Nigerians, Ogalla noted that all hands must be on deck for the country to return to its glory days.
He said: “We have to cultivate that habit of self-discipline, which is almost totally absent because the kind of music they play today is totally different from what they used to play in the past.
“This is the Gen Z era. I think there is a disconnect between them and how our society will be better. So, we can still use music to send out the real message of how a society should be in a way that will appeal to them.
“So that means our musicologists need to go back to work because the musicians sing for entertainment and to make their money.
“But the musicologists are more focused on the society and the right morals. They will have to do more to bring forth workable solutions that will help salvage our society from the present decadence.”

Reminiscing about his days as a young boy, the Naval Chief noted how parents diligently performed their duties to the point that a child would not bring someone else’s pencil home without answering questions.

“But what we see today is that students whose parents are still paying their school fees will buy the latest phones for the same parents or come home with choice cars and their parents will be celebrating. Is that child working? Did you probe to know how he/she got the money for those things?” He queried.

In his lead paper, Associate Professor of Music at the University of Lagos, John Olugbenga, highlighted the complex nature of the country with over 400 ethnic groups and 500 indigenous languages.

“With all these diversities in our culture, religion and everything; music is the language that can bring all of us together. It’s a language that every of these diverse cultures, ethnic groups will understand, especially when the music is tailored towards bringing unity in our country.  

“All the musicians-academia, non-academia, military, paramilitary and all the celebrities out there- it is supposed to be a combined work. We must all be deliberate to use music as a unifying factor in this nation, especially now that everything is just going in a different direction.

“Let us use music to gather everybody together by bringing peace, unity, solidarity, harmony in our nation.

“We need government support to achieve this. We need to continue to have different musical conferences towards bringing communities and individuals together to educate them on how music can be used positively to bring peace in our nation,” he concluded.

Similarly, a music lecturer at the Federal College of Education, Abeokuta, Dr. Debora Temisan-Lawal, said researches have shown music was a powerful non-violent tool to solve several issues in the country and across the world.

 “Music is a form of identity. It exemplifies our values, it shows what we stand for, what we fall for and what we desire,” she added. 

Alex Enumah in Abuja

A cross section of Nigerians have challenged the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC) to begin the practice of naming and shaming indicted corrupt government institutions so as to serve as deterrent to others.
Speaking at a roundtable meeting to review the implementation of the National Ethics and Integrity Policy (NEIP) and the Ethics and Integrity Compliance Scorecard (EICS), the stakeholders which included religious leaders, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), lawyers and representatives of the international community, stressed that until institutions found guilty of corruption are brought before the public for name shaming, the ICPC and other anti-corruption agencies in the country, will only achieve very little in the war against corruption.
Chairman of the ICPC, Dr. Musa Aliyu, SAN, challenged religious bodies, civil groups and Nigerians in general to come up with fresh ideas as well as approaches that would enhance the county’s war against corruption.
Aliyu recalled that the NEIP and EICS was established in 2020 and 2015 respectively to help create a  “moral re-birth and inculcate in Nigerians an anti-corruption mindset.”
Represented by the Secretary of the Commission, Mr Clifford Oparaodu, the ICPC’s boss, pointed out that it has become imperative for stakeholders to “review, evaluate, re-strategise and retool where necessary for increased positive impact.
He explained that the objective of the evaluation of MDAs through the ethics and integrity compliance standards are particularly to monitor and evaluate them on the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
“This is meant to ascertain their level of compliance with institutional ethics and integrity requirements and avail the ICPC with a tracking and diagnostic tool and intelligence to monitor system risks and vulnerabilities and direct management and leadership of the MDAs to take appropriate measures to mitigate them.
“I sincerely hope that this programme will afford us the needed opportunity to critically evaluate the effects of our numerous efforts in respect to these initiatives in the society, and create in us the motivation to do more,” he said.
“Attitudes has to be changed and anti-corruption mindset might be inculcated so as to overcome national and institutional challenges.

“It is therefore my pleasure to declare this stakeholders’ roundtable review of the implementation of the NEIP and EICS open, and to wish you fruitful deliberations that can usher in fresh ideas and more valuable approaches that capable of improving on the existing anti-corruption initiatives,” he added.

In a goodwill, the Director of Al-Habiyyah Islamic Society, Imam Fuad Adeyemi, called on the commission to publish state by state, ministry by ministry, agency by agency names of corrupt institutions, adding that ICPC should deploy the social media in ensuring that such names go viral.

He disclosed that Muslim clerics are being trained to shun corruption and engage in productive ventures so as to shun grafts from corrupt congregants.

Similarly, the General Secretary of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Apostle Samson Fatokun, who represented CAN President, Most Reverend Daniel Okoh, lamented the high level of moral decadence in the country.

While stating that the step taken by the ICPC is in order and would facilitate ethical recovery in the country, he however, argued that such move must start from the top instead of the grassroots.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has applauded the central role ethics and integrity play in the effective delivery of the institution’s mandate.

According to the Chairperson of the Anti-corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) of the NIS, DCI Florence Laira, the service recognises that the fight against corruption is not the task of one agency but a collective responsibility.

“It is through forums like this that we can engage in meaningful dialogue, share best practices, and work together to ensure that ethics and integrity are deeply ingrained in the culture of every public office.

“As we engage in today’s discussions, I encourage all participants to take full advantage of this opportunity to contribute ideas, offer solutions, and share perspectives that will guide the review and implementation of these important policies.

 “Together, we can build a nation where the values of integrity and accountability thrive, and where public trust in our institutions remains strong,” she said. 

Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has performed the formal flag-off of the revitalisation of the Enugu United Palm Products Limited, EUPPL.
The flag-off, which took place on Thursday at Ibite-Olo, Ezeagu Local Government Area of the state, was sequel to the N100bn deal between the Enugu State Government and Pragmatic Palms Limited, PPL, in May this year.
At the event during which he equally performed the groundbreaking for the staff quarters at the plantation, Mbah thanked the people of the state for believing in his vision and determination to revive and convert the state’s moribund assets to productive assets.
“For me, this flag-off is a triumph of vision over cynicism. Recall that a few months ago, when we announced an investment of N100bn in partnership with Pragmatic Palms Limited, the news was greeted with a lot of cynicism and doubt. We had a lot of naysayers and critics, who ascribed all sorts of things to this humongous investment. But as you have seen, we were absolutely clear as to what we wanted to achieve and accomplish for our people in Enugu State.
“So, what this groundbreaking ceremony represents for us is a new lease of life for Pragmatic Palm Product Limited. It also shows that we are getting closer to our dream to transform Enugu State as a premier destination for investment, industry, tourism, business and living.
“Therefore, I want to use this opportunity to reassure the management and executive of PPL of our commitment to supporting every step of this investment,” he said.
Speaking, the Managing Director/CEO of Pragmatic Palms Limited (PPL), Prof. George Nwangwu, rolled out a five-year aggressive plan to reposition EUPPL as one of the leading integrated oil palm establishments in Nigeria, playing in the upstream, midstream, and downstream sectors.
He added that the firm would create 3,500 direct and indirect jobs.

In the upstream, he said that with only 40 per cent of the 6,700 hectres of land planted so far, EUPPL would embark on aggressive planting of the unplanted lands, increasing the planted area to at least 20,000 hectres in five years.

In the midstream, Nwangwu said, “We will set up world-class oil mills across the three locations as well as increasing the oil production capacity over time.

“We will also set up and improve our refining capacity to produce crude palm oil, palm kernel oil, olein, stearin, biodiesel, as well as refined, bleached, and deodorised oil.

“In the downstream, we plan to have a share of the retail market by setting up the largest network of agents to aggregate fresh fruit bunches from around our catchment area.”

In her remarks, the Commissioner for Trade, Investment and Industry, Adaora Chukwu, recalled that EUPPL, originally established by the government of the defunct East Central State in 1970 on 6,700 hectares traversing Ibite-Olo in Ezeagu LGA, Ugwuoba in Oji River LGA, and Umulokpa in Uzo-Uwani LGA, though initially viable, was crippled by mismanagement, obsolete equipment, and limited market access.

She, however, said that the N100bn joint venture sealed between the state government and Pragmatic Palm Limited in which the state provides the land/plantations, while PPL provides finance for 60 per cent of the transaction, would see to the turnaround of the company to the immense  benefit of the state through job creation, economic diversification, infrastructural development, revenue generation, technology development, innovation, among others.

The Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation, Patrick Ubru, said the partnership between the Enugu State Government and PPL towards the revitalisation of EUPPL was very strategic to the overall vision of the Mbah administration for the agriculture sector.

Meanwhile, the host communities, lauded Governor Mbah for reviving the EUPPL after over 40 years of dormancy and ruin, with a businessman and community leader from Olo, Johnmary Anagolu, pledging a donation of N50m to support the administration’s infrastructural development in the area.

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The operatives of the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Special Task Force on Petroleum and Illegal Bunkering (IGP-STFPIB) have once again made a significant breakthrough in the continuous fight against oil theft, illegal bunkering and economic sabotage.
The Force Public Relations Officer (PRO), Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said that police uncovered and deactivated an illegal refining site and nabbed four suspected oil thieves behind the economic sabotage.
In a separate statement, Adejobi also said that the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, averred that discipline, dedication, hard work and loyalty remained the cornerstone of a successful career in the Nigeria Police Force, stating that without discipline, no individual can survive the rigours of the Police Force.
“This milestone achievement was marked after the operatives, in collaboration with the department of operations, Rivers State Command, on 12th September 2024, made discovery of a storage facility in Trans Amadi, Port-Harcourt, Rivers State, used in dealing and processing illegally acquired Crude oil. This operation had led to the arrest of four suspects namely; Emmanuel Nwachi ‘m’ 58 years; Adamu Bala ‘m’ 35years; Nura Musa ‘m’ 22 years; Bashir Abubakar ‘m’ 28 years, and the recovery of 40,000 Litres of petroleum products, stored in 67 white storage tanks,” Adejobi said.
The team, he said, destroyed the site and recovered the equipment and machines used in committing these crimes.
“The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, re-emphasised the commitment of the Force to tackling every form of crime, criminality and corruption, extending to those involved in this economic sabotage,” he said.
 The Force, he said, remained unyielding and will continue to bring these perpetrators to book.
Meanwhile, Egbetokun, said that discipline, dedication, hard work and loyalty remained the cornerstone of a successful career in the Nigeria Police Force, stating that without discipline, no individual can survive the rigours of the Police Force.
He also stated that the foundation laid during the training period is crucial, as it moulds the recruits into effective and efficient police officers ready to serve the nation with integrity.
Egbetokun, said this on Thursday, in Benin, when he paid unscheduled visit to the Police Training School and the Police Mobile Force (PMF) 5, in Benin City, Edo State, as part of his ongoing efforts to ensure that police training across the country adheres to the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, and service.
A statement by Adejobi said that during the visit, Egbetokun inspected various facilities, including the recruits’ dormitories, classrooms, and the kitchen, where meals for trainees are prepared.
According to him, Egbetokun took a special interest in the welfare of the recruits, currently totalling 492, and commended the staff on their commitment to training the next generation of officers.
Addressing the recruits during the unscheduled visit, the IGP charged them to embrace professionalism, respect for human rights, and dedication to duty.
He reiterated the importance of remaining disciplined and focused as these traits are vital for the successful execution of their duties and for maintaining public trust in the Force.
The police boss further announced his plan to carry out unscheduled visits to other police training schools across the country.
According to him, “These visits aim to ensure that training programs align with the core values of the Force which are professionalism, discipline, and dedication to service.”
Adejobi concluded that the Inspector General of Police remains committed to reforming and improving police training and operations to meet the challenges of modern policing.

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

An article by The Economist magazine has urged President Bola Tinubu to allow market forces to determine the price of petrol and plough savings from the removal of subsidy on petrol into building human capital in the country.
According to the global news medium, many wise petrol states now seek to turn oil revenues into human capital by investing in better clinics, schools and other public services.
By doing this, it said that Nigeria could nurture healthy, well-educated citizens who would thrive long after the oil runs dry.
Stressing that nearly half the government’s oil revenues are wasted on petrol subsidies, that is about 2.3 percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), or four times the health budget, it urged Tinubu to scrap the subsidy.
Although a hard step, it noted that the decisions could be made politically easier by the start of petrol production last week at a huge refinery owned by Aliko Dangote, Nigeria’s richest man.
“The subsidy has survived for decades, despite several attempts to get rid of it. President Bola Tinubu announced at his inauguration last year that the fuel subsidy ‘is gone’. Yet it quickly returned.
“In its current form, it is convoluted and opaque. The state-owned Nigerian National Petroleum Company swaps locally pumped crude oil for petrol refined abroad and sells that petrol to Nigerian motorists at a below-market price.
“The vast losses it makes on this are deducted from the oil revenues it is supposed to pay to the state. This dramatically reduces what is available for public services. It is hard to exaggerate how terrible this policy is,” it stated.
The magazine described the policy as inequitable because the benefits flow disproportionately to the car-owning middle class.
“It is dirty, encouraging Nigerians to burn more petrol. It is an open door to graft. Lorry loads of subsidised fuel are smuggled into neighbouring countries. And because it costs a fortune to keep supplying cheap petrol, which the state cannot afford, petrol often runs out.
“In recent days mile-long fuel queues have caused huge traffic jams. Some drivers wait all night to fill their tanks. Worst of all, lavishing more public money on fuel subsidies than on health and education combined makes it hard to improve the dismal quality of either,” it said.
According to the article, this is one reason why Nigeria is home to a sixth of the children who die before the age of five, and why the average Nigerian child absorbs only five years of schooling, against 8.5 in Kenya (measuring what is learned, not how long is spent in class).
It pointed out that the waste of human potential is spectacular, with Nigeria projected to be the world’s third-most populous country by mid-century.
“The World Bank estimates that, with proper food, schooling and health care, Nigerian children would grow up to be 2.8 times more productive,” The Economist magazine stated in the article.
But it admitted that the difficulty in scrapping it, is that the petrol subsidy is popular in Nigeria, although it lopsidedly benefits the better-off, while every Nigerian swiftly feels the pain when it is reduced.
Recalling that a recent sharp increase in the official price of petrol has raised the cost of everything from groceries to electricity, since Nigerians often use petrol-powered generators at home, it noted that people are furious about the government’s decision.
“Last month police fired on crowds protesting against the high cost of living, leaving more than a dozen dead. The government is terrified of provoking further unrest. Yet a failure to reform will only prolong the misery.
“There are two possible ways to persuade voters that scrapping the subsidy will ultimately benefit them more than it hurts. One is to end the fuel shortages by letting Mr Dangote (and anyone else) sell petrol at market prices.
“The transition will not be smooth, owing to bottlenecks in the domestic supply of crude oil. And it will mean higher prices, which people will hate. But Nigerians are sympathetic to the nationalist view that, as an oil producer, their country should refine its own fuel. And the government might find political cover by blaming higher petrol prices on Mr Dangote.

“More importantly, it should invest the money saved by scrapping the fuel subsidy in health care, education and a less threadbare social safety net. Mere promises to do so will be widely disbelieved.

“Many Nigerians assume, with some justification, that any spare cash in state coffers is likely to be stolen or wasted on vanity projects. It is up to Mr Bola Tinubu’s government to prove them wrong, and quickly.

“Much could go wrong, as it has before. But Nigeria’s public finances are so wobbly that it can’t carry on like this. It should stop subsidising petrol, and subsidise people instead,” the magazine affirmed.

Agnes Ekebuike

The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has announced the 2024 CANEX Deal Room, a platform designed to connect creatives with financiers and investors.  
Through the CANEX Deal Room, Afreximbank will provide entrepreneurs in the creative sector with the opportunity to present bankable projects and opportunities to financiers and investors.
The bank and its sister financial institutions will consider debt and equity financing for transactions in segments such as film and television, music, franchising, fashion, and infrastructure for the creative industry.
This announcement comes ahead of CANEX WKND 2024, Africa’s largest gathering of creative industry professionals, taking place from October 16-19, 2024, in Algiers, Algeria.
According to organisers, this initiative aims to support the development and growth of the creative and cultural industries in Africa and the diaspora.
The event will build on the success of previous editions, including CANEX at IATF2023 in Cairo, which brought together delegates from across the continent representing various creative sectors.
To be eligible for the CANEX Deal Room, applicants must meet specific criteria, including being Africa-based enterprises with at least 25 per cent African ownership, having an operating history of at least three years, and employing at least 50 per cent African talent. Proposals must be submitted by October 1, 2024, to be considered. Late submissions will be disqualified.
CANEX WKND 2024 is hosted by Afreximbank, in partnership with the African Union Commission, the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat, and the Government of Algeria. The event will build on the success of previous editions, including CANEX at IATF2023 in Cairo, which brought together delegates from across the continent representing various creative sectors.

Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

The Kano State Independent Electoral Commission(KANSIEC) has reduced by N1 million each for the nomination fees for Chairmanship and Councillorship positions for the forthcoming local government elections in the state.
The Chairman of the commission,Prof.Sani Malumfashi, who announced the new fees at a news briefing in Kano on Friday, said the body reduced the fees in compliance with the court injunction.
He stated that the commission respects the court and the order restricting it from collecting N10 million for the Chairmanship nomination form and N5 million for Councillorship after some political parties went to court to challenge the initial rates.
According to him, the commission would now charge N9 million for the Chairmanship nomination form and N4 million for councillorship nomination form for the forthcoming polls.
“We are a law-abiding organization and as such,we are complying with the court order and therefore reducing the nomination fees to N9 million for chairmanship and N4 million for councillorship positions.”
He said the nomination forms bearing the new fees are already in some designated banks and would be on sale from next Monday and advised candidates of the various political parties partaking in the elections to access them.

Agnes Ekebuike

Cavista Technologies, a global technology services company, has announced its commitment to create up to 500 high-skill IT jobs with the opening of its new corporate office in Botswana in the heart of Gaborone’s business district.
A statement said this is part of Cavista’s commitment to innovation and growth across Africa.
President of the Republic of Botswana, Dr. Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi, participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony, and toured the state-of-the-art facility alongside the Vice President, the Minister of Trade and Industry, other senior government officials, and the U.S. Ambassador to Botswana.
Also in attendance were dozens of business leaders, Cavista Holdings executives, and members of the media.
President Masisi warmly welcomed Cavista’s entry into Botswana, emphasising its significance for the nation’s growth.
“The official opening of Cavista in Botswana is not just the beginning of a new chapter for this esteemed company, but also for our own country,” President Masisi said. “This marks the beginning of a partnership built on shared values, collaboration, and a belief in Botswana’s potential as a key player in the global business landscape.”
He added, “Cavista Holdings’ decision to invest in Botswana is a powerful vote of confidence in our country’s stability, business environment, and vision to become Africa’s leading technology hub.”
The President further remarked, “Cavista Holdings is no ordinary company. Its commitment to creating technology solutions that improve lives and enhance business efficiency aligns perfectly with Botswana’s national development agenda. As we diversify our economy beyond traditional sectors, technology and innovation will drive our transformation.”
Earlier, Chairman of Cavista Holdings, the parent company of Cavista Technologies, John Olajide, said “We are in Botswana for the long haul.
“Botswana’s youth represent a tremendous opportunity for us to create jobs, harnessing their technical and engineering skills to drive innovation and create value for businesses. Together, we will transform lives.”
Olajide highlighted his commitment to Botswana, which grew out of two years of conversations with President Masisi.

“Our journey here is a testament to the power of relationships built on trust,” Olajide said, adding, “I believe Cavista’s presence in Botswana will help transform the lives of many young people, allowing both Botswana and Africa to thrive and reach their full potential in the years to come.”

By the end of next year, Cavista plans to employ 100 highly skilled professionals in Botswana, collaborating with teams across the company’s global operations. In the long term, the goal is to expand to 500 IT jobs in the country.

Cavista Technologies Limited is a global technology services company focused on building innovative solutions that empower clients to address their most complex technology needs with robust technology solutions. With a strong presence in key global markets, Cavista boasts a diverse workforce of highly skilled software designers, engineers and product development teams that serve clients worldwide. We help our clients and partners realize their greatest potential and thrive in an ever-changing world by unleashing the power of our talented global team and customised solutions.

Cavista Holdings Limited is a dynamic and rapidly expanding investment and holding company with a global footprint across four continents. With strategic investments in Nigeria, Botswana, the United States, Canada, India and the Philippines, our portfolio of companies deliver innovative products and services that enrich lives worldwide in key sectors, including technology, healthcare, agriculture, hospitality and financial services. We believe business is a force for good and make strategic investments to create value and transform lives.

A staff member of a real estate company in Anambra State, Olieh Somtochukwu, has become the first winner of the sum of N1 million naira in the Glo Jolly Win promo. The promo is organised in conjunction with NCC-licensed Nitroswitch, an aggregator company, and Tetragrammaton, a value-added service provider.
Somtochukwu played with just N100 in August and became an instant millionaire in the promo draw held in line with the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) procedure. He was presented with the prize at a brief ceremony held in Lagos on Wednesday.
A highly elated Somtochukwu, who travelled to Lagos all the way from Onitsha, Anambra State, to receive his prize, could not contain his excitement upon receiving the credit alert for N1 million on his phone before the event ended. He disclosed that, after playing the lottery game, he forgot about it and was shocked when he was called and told that he had won N1 million. He took the information with a pinch of salt and only believed it when he got to Globacom’s office and saw himself as the focus of attraction.
“I was very much surprised. Even up to now, I’m still shocked. I am short of words to express how I feel today. I thought it was a scam when I was called, I thought it was one of those random calls you get, but on coming here, I can say I am happy with what has happened here. I’ve received the alert for the N1 million”, Somtochukwu affirmed, adding that the money came in at a time that he needed help to take care of his health challenges.
Mojeed Aluko of VAS Department, Globacom, explained that “the Glo Jolly Win is a lottery service in which subscribers can answer trivia questions or spin a wheel to win loads of airtime and cash prizes for as low as N100 daily, with no need for downloads or any storage usage on phones. Subscribers can select their preferred services from the options of Jolly Trivia, Wheel, Win & Life to join in the fun and excitement of the lottery with the potential to become millionaires like Somtochukwu.”
Subscribers can opt for a one-time daily package or set it at auto renewal. There is also an option of a one-time weekly subscription or an auto renewal package while subscribers can also have a one-time monthly package or set it on auto renewal.
To take part in the lottery, subscribers can dial *20152# or, in the alternative, send JWD, JWW or JWM to 20152 as applicable.
Mr. Chidi Nnadozie, the Chief Executive Officer of Nitroswitch, an NCC-licensed Value-Added Service aggregator with Globacom, said his organization was proud to work with the network to bring excitement and rewards to Glo subscribers through the lottery. He promised that more fun and amazing benefits await subscribers who participate in the various offers on the Glo network.

Nitroswitch is licensed to integrate and deliver third party content services such as video, animation, gaming, infotainment and lottery services from licensed Content Providers to mobile network operators in Nigeria.

Tetragrammaton, also an NCC licensed Value-Added Service Provider, offers lottery, entertainment, video and gaming services to mobile subscribers through the VAS Aggregator. The company is the owner of the Jolly Suite lottery services, among other exciting value-added services on Globacom network.

The Chief Executive Officer of Webber Hoops and Courts, Opeyemi Babalola, has pushed his dream of taking the game of basketball to every neighbourhood of Nigeria. The structural engineer, best known in the sports circle as Webber, shared his goals with the youths as the Anthony Village Ballers 3×3 face-off came to an end late on Sunday.

The event, done in partnership with Soopermart and Nike, was one in the series of events organised by the Nigerian basketball equipment manufacturing company.

Webber said, “We are doing this as our own way of taking basketball to every corner of Nigeria. We love communities to bond like this and create fun with the game of basketball. We have started this and we are moving around places to create fun and keep the youths busy.

“It is our hope that we also have the continent of Africa doing this and this dream has seen us going to places like Morocco, Cote d’Ivoire, Kenya and other places.

“And be sure that you guys will not just play and go home empty-handed tonight. There’s always something to go back home and for this event there’s something special.”

The surprise of the day was the gift of brand-new Nike shoes for 12 of the players who won in the Boys U14, Girls U14 and Boys 15 and above. There were no entries for Girls 15 and above category. The canvas shoes were made available in conjunction with the Nike Store at the Ikeja City Mall. The winners and other players went home with various cash prizes.

The event in Anthony Village was one among others held previously in Victoria Island and two centres in Abuja. The Webber Hoops and Court train is planned for more neighbourhoods in Lagos, Ilorin and other cities across Nigeria.

Webber manufactured all the equipment used in the competition ranging from the court to the upright, basketball racks, the trophies and the lightning.

 NBA Africa and Agence Française de Développement (AFD), France’s public development institution, concluded the third season of the Jr. NBA & AFD Basketball Experience by holding a two-day event at the National Stadium in Surelere, Lagos on September 10 and 11.

The celebration was organized around a symposium discussion on the core values of the program and a physical education teachers’ workshop. The stakeholders took this opportunity to discuss mental health, hygiene and gender equality whilst building the capacity of PE teachers and enhancing the learning experience for students in their respective schools. 

Speaking at the event,AFD Country Director for Nigeria Xavier Muron said: “At AFD, we believe that sport is a powerful drive for change, fostering social and economic progress.  Therefore, our participation to the Program reflects our dedication in investing in youth, skills development, and the empowerment of communities”

General Consul of France in Nigeria Laurent Favier she steted that, “Over the past two years, with the financial support of the French Embassy, several initiatives have been launched to promote inclusion through sport across Nigeria.  These efforts emphasize the transformative power of sport, not only as a tool for personal development but also as a means to foster inclusion, unity, and health across all communities.”

According to the Vice President and Head of NBA Nigeria, Gbemisola Abudu, “the Jr. NBA & AFD Basketball Experience has been essential in our commitment to make basketball more accessible to Nigerian youth and focusing on the importance of mental health, hygiene and gender equity.”

Jr. NBA & AFD Basketball Experience is a youth development programme that features weekly basketball and life skills sessions to educate African youth about the importance of physical and mental health and wellbeing.  The initiative also aims to use basketball as a platform to promote social inclusion and inspire secondary school children as change-makers in their communities.

Over the past three years, the programme has reached more than 40,000 youth from 54 schools in Lagos through basketball clinics and life-skills sessions.

Nigeria’s U18 Women, J’Tigress have booked a ticket to the FIBA U19 World Cup following their 71-67 pound-for-pound victory over Uganda in a match played in Pretoria, South Africa yesterday.

Nigeria will take on Mali in the final match billed for today after the Malians who are also the defending champions of the competition dispatched Cameroon in the first semi-final match yesterday.

The J’Tigress match against Uganda was played practically at the clutch with every loose ball aggressively fought for. Little signs of victory showed for Nigeria early in the game as J’Tigress won the first quarter 21-20. They maintained their grip and led the match at 45-39 through the break. The Nigerian ladies would not give up on their lead and the third quarter ended 61-54 for Nigeria. The push and shove of the last quarter yielded little or no fruit for the East Africans as Nigeria smiled at the buzzer with the score 71-67.

The semi-final game between J’Tigress and the Ugandan ladies was the second in this competition. They won the last group match against Nigeria 80-64 but the conditions were quite different. In that first match about nine members of the J’Tigress team were down with flu.