The 2024 MTV Video Music Awards is one of the most anticipated events in the music industry, bringing together top artists and fans to celebrate outstanding achievements in music video production.

Scheduled to take place on September 11, 2024, at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, the ceremony will spotlight the most creative and impactful music videos, artists, and songs released over the past year.

The 2024 MTV Video Music Awards promise to be a star-studded affair, featuring a nominee list that ranges from industry powerhouses such as Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, and Megan Thee Stallion to rising stars like Chappell Roan, Sabrina Carpenter, and Gracie Abrams.

The VMAs will be on Wednesday, September 11, starting at 8:00 p.m. ET, with the red carpet events earlier. The date was moved from September 10 to avoid clashing with the first presidential debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump.

There are about 21 categories and voting is ongoing, PUNCH Online reports.

Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s VMAs.

VIDEO OF THE YEAR

Ariana Grande – “we can’t be friends (wait for your love)”
Billie Eilish – “LUNCH”
Doja Cat – “Paint The Town Red”
Eminem – “Houdini”
SZA – “Snooze”
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight”

ARTISTE OF THE YEAR

Ariana Grande
Bad Bunny
Eminem
Sabrina Carpenter
SZA
Taylor Swift

SONG OF THE YEAR

Beyoncé – “TEXAS HOLD ‘EM”
Jack Harlow – “Lovin On Me”
Kendrick Lamar – “Not Like Us”
Sabrina Carpenter – “Espresso”
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight”
Teddy Swims – “Lose Control”

BEST NEW ARTISTE

Benson Boone
Chappell Roan
Gracie Abrams
Shaboozey
Teddy Swims
Tyla

MTV PUSH PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR

August 2023: Kaliii – “Area Codes”
September 2023: GloRilla – “Lick or Sum”
October 2023: Benson Boone – “In The Stars”
November 2023: Coco Jones — “ICU”
December 2023: Victoria Monét – “On My Mama”
January 2024: Jessie Murph – “Wild Ones”
February 2024: Teddy Swims – “Lose Control”
March 2024: Chappell Roan – “Red Wine Supernova”
April 2024: Flyana Boss – “yeaaa”
May 2024: Laufey – “Goddess”
June 2024: LE SSERAFIM – “EASY”
July 2024: The Warning – “Automatic Sun”

BEST COLLABORATION

Drake ft. Sexyy Red & SZA – “Rich Baby Daddy”
GloRilla, Megan Thee Stallion – “Wanna Be”
Jessie Murph ft. Jelly Roll – “Wild Ones”
Jung Kook ft. Latto – “Seven”
Post Malone ft. Morgan Wallen – “I Had Some Help”
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight”

BEST POP

Camila Cabello
Dua Lipa
Olivia Rodrigo
Sabrina Carpenter
Tate McRae
Taylor Swift

BEST HIP-HOP

Drake ft. Sexyy Red & SZA – “Rich Baby Daddy”
Eminem – “Houdini”
GloRilla – “Yeah Glo!”
Gunna – “fukumean”
Megan Thee Stallion – “BOA”
Travis Scott ft. Playboi Carti – “FE!N”

BEST R&B

Alicia Keys – “Lifeline”
Muni Long – “Made For Me”
SZA – “Snooze”
Tyla – “Water”
USHER, Summer Walker, 21 Savage – “Good Good”
Victoria Monét – “On My Mama”

BEST ALTERNATIVE

Benson Boone – “Beautiful Things”
Bleachers – “Tiny Moves”
Hozier – “Too Sweet”
Imagine Dragons – “Eyes Closed”
Linkin Park – “Friendly Fire”
Teddy Swims – “Lose Control (Live)”

BEST ROCK

Bon Jovi – “Legendary”
Coldplay – “feelslikeimfallinginlove”
Green Day – “Dilemma”
Kings of Leon – “Mustang”
Lenny Kravitz – “Human”
U2 – “Atomic City”

BEST AFROBEATS

Ayra Starr ft. Giveon – “Last Heartbreak Song”
Burna Boy – “City Boys”
Chris Brown ft. Davido & Lojay – “Sensational”
Tems – “Love Me JeJe”
Tyla – “Water”
USHER, Pheelz – “Ruin”

BEST LATIN

Anitta – “Mil Veces”
Bad Bunny – “MONACO”
KAROL G – “MI EX TENÍA RAZÓN”
Myke Towers – “LALA”
Peso Pluma & Anitta – “BELLAKEO”
Rauw Alejandro – “Touching The Sky”
Shakira & Cardi B – “Puntería”

BEST K-POP

Jung Kook ft. Latto – “Seven”
LISA – “Rockstar”
NCT Dream – “Smoothie”
NewJeans – “Super Shy”
Stray Kids – “LALALALA”
TOMORROW X TOGETHER – “Deja vu”

VIDEO FOR GOOD

Alexander Stewart – “if you only knew”
Billie Eilish – “What Was I Made For (From The Motion Picture “Barbie”)”
Coldplay – “feelslikeimfallinginlove”
Joyner Lucas & Jelly Roll – “Best For Me”
RAYE – “Genesis.”
Tyler Childers – “In Your Love”

BEST DIRECTION

Ariana Grande – “we can’t be friends (wait for your love)” – Directed by Christian Breslauer
Bleachers -“Tiny Moves” – Directed by Alex Lockett and Margaret Qualley
Eminem – “Houdini”- Directed by Rich Lee
Megan Thee Stallion – “BOA” – Directed by Daniel Iglesias Jr.
Sabrina Carpenter – “Please Please Please” – Directed by Bardia Zeinali
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight” – Directed by Taylor Swift

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY

Ariana Grande – “we can’t be friends (wait for your love)” – Cinematography by Anatol Trofimov
Charli xcx – “Von dutch” – Cinematography by Jeff Bierman
Dua Lipa – “Illusion” – Cinematography by Nikita Kuzmenko
Olivia Rodrigo – “obsessed” – Cinematography by Marz Miller
Rauw Alejandro – “Touching The Sky” – Cinematography by Camilo Monsalve
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight” – Cinematography by Rodrigo Prieto

BEST EDITING

Anitta – “Mil Veces” – Editing by Nick Yumul
Ariana Grande – “we can’t be friends (wait for your love)” – Editing by Luis Caraza Peimbert
Eminem – “Houdini” – Editing by David Checel
LISA – “Rockstar” – Editing by Nik Kohler
Sabrina Carpenter – “Espresso” – Editing by Jai Shukla
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight” – Editing by Chancler Haynes

BEST CHOREOGRAPHY

Bleachers – “Tiny Moves” – Choreography by Margaret Qualley
Dua Lipa – “Houdini” – Choreography by Charm La’Donna
LISA – “Rockstar” – Choreography by Sean Bankhead
Rauw Alejandro – “Touching The Sky” – Choreography by Felix ‘Fefe’ Burgos
Tate McRae – “Greedy” – Choreography by Sean Bankhead
Troye Sivan – “Rush” – Choreography by Sergio Reis, Mauro Van De Kerkhof

BEST VISUAL EFFECTS

Ariana Grande – “the boy is mine” – Visual effects by Digital Axis
Eminem – “Houdini” – Visual effects by Synapse Virtual Production, Louise Lee, Rich Lee, Metaphysic, Flawless Post
Justin Timberlake – “Selfish” – Visual effects by Candice Dragonas
Megan Thee Stallion – “BOA” – Visual effects by Mathematic
Olivia Rodrigo – “get him back!” — Visual effects by Cooper Vacheron, Preston Mohr, Karen Arakelian, Justin Johnson
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight” – Visual effects by Parliament

BEST ART DIRECTION

Charli xcx – “360” – Art direction by Grace Surnow
LISA – “Rockstar” – Art direction by Pongsan Thawatwichian
Megan Thee Stallion – “BOA” – Art direction by Brittany Porter
Olivia Rodrigo – “bad idea right?” – Art direction by Nicholas des Jardins
Sabrina Carpenter – “Please Please Please” – Art direction by Nicholas des Jardins
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight” – Art direction by Ethan Tobman

[Punch]

The Presidency yesterday moved against Chinese firm, Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Company, over the seizure of three presidential jets on the order of the Judicial Court of Paris, France.

It also dismissed court orders against Ogun State Government, which led to the seizure of the three presidential jets, as an attempt to strip Nigeria of her assets.

Consequently, both the federal and Ogun State governments are making frantic efforts to vacate the orders obtained by the Chinese company on March 7, 2024, and August 12, 2024, respectively, with a view to securing the release of the planes.

This is reminiscent of the order obtained by Process and Industrial Development Limited, P&ID, in London to secure $11 billion judgment debt from Nigeria, which the Federal Government eventually got vacated.

Background to the Zhongshan Fucheng Case

A contract between Ogun State and Zhongshan to manage a free-trade zone was executed in 2007 but the parties entered into a dispute in 2015, and arbitration began in 2016.

By 2019, it was learned that the arbitration hearing had been concluded, as the Arbitral Panel awarded over $60 million against the Federal Government of Nigeria, a co-defendant, when all Zhongshan had done was build a perimeter fence around the free-trade zone.

Based on legal advice, Ogun State Government was said to have resolved to resist enforcement of the award. It was also gathered that the resistance was successful in eight different jurisdictions, as there are pending appeals against recognition orders issued in both the US and UK.

Ogun State, it was learned, also engaged Zhongshan in settlement discussions on reasonable terms. The last meeting, which held in September 2023 in London, lasted for three days and was attended by several officials of Ogun State, including Governor Dapo Abiodun and the Attorney-General/Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi.

Zhongshan’s initial reasonable readiness to consider Ogun State’s offer was surprisingly reversed by the second day when it insisted on government paying the full arbitration debt.
It was learned that this led to a breakdown of the mediation, with parties agreeing to meet again in the first quarter of this year.

Since then, Zhongshan, Vanguard learned, had been evasive and instead, embarked on a series of enforcement proceedings, which the legal team appointed by the FGN and Ogun State successfully opposed.

In cases similar to the present one, where Zhongshan obtained an ex-parte order, Ogun State successfully set aside the orders, it was learned.

Ogun State has not given up on a reasonable settlement option, with the most recent being a letter sent to Zhongshan last week.

Zhongshan, it was gathered, only responded after obtaining this latest illegal order.

Claiming that the Federal Government was never served any notice of the two cases in the Judicial Court of Paris which gave orders on March 7, 2024, and August 12, 2024, respectively, the Presidency said it is working with Ogun State Government to discharge what it descried as a frivolous order.

FG not under contractual obligation—Onanuga

Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who disclosed this in a statement yesterday, said: ‘’The Presidency is aware of the various failed attempts by a Chinese company, Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Co. Limited, to take over offshore assets of the Federal Government of Nigeria through subterfuge.

‘’Ogun State Government, on Thursday (yesterday), faulted the judicial process that led to the provisional attachment of three Nigerian government-owned aircraft in France by the Judicial Court of Paris on March 7 and August 2, 2024.

‘’The Federal Government is not under any contractual obligation with the company. The case in which Zhongshan is trying to use every unorthodox means to strip our offshore assets is between the company and Ogun State Government.

“The Federal Government is aware of efforts being made by the Ogun State Government to reach an amicable resolution to the matter.

‘’It must be said without any equivocation that Zhongshan has no solid ground to demand restitution from Ogun State Government, based on facts regarding the 2007 contract between the company and the state government to manage a free-trade zone.

‘’When the contract with Ogun State was revoked in 2015, the company had only erected a perimeter fence on the land earmarked for a free trade zone.

“While the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice are working with the Ogun State Government on an amicable resolution, Zhongshan obtained two orders from the Judicial Court of Paris, dated March 7, 2024, and August 12, 2024, without any notice being duly served on the Federal Government of Nigeria and Ogun State Government.

‘’This arm-twisting tactic by the Chinese company is the latest in a long list of failed moves to attach Nigerian government-owned assets to foreign jurisdictions.

“Material facts in the transaction between Ogun State Government and Zhongshan point to another P&ID case in which unscrupulous and questionable individuals falsely present themselves as investors with the sole objective of cheating and scamming governments in Africa.

‘’Undoubtedly, Zhongshan withheld vital information and misled the Judicial Court in Paris into attaching the Nigerian government’s presidential jets, which are on routine maintenance in France.

‘’The use and nature of the presidential jets as assets of a sovereign entity whose assets are protected by diplomatic immunity forbid any foreign court from issuing an order against them.

‘’We are convinced the Chinese company misled the Judicial Court of Paris regarding the use and nature of the assets it seeks to attach and did not fully disclose to the court as required by law.

“This same Chinese company had tried to enforce its questionable judgment in the UK and USA but failed. Like the P&ID case, foreign companies are trying to defraud Nigeria with the collaboration of some bureaucrats.

“Zhongshan appeared to have sold the judgment they got to a venture capitalist seeking to make money by embarrassing the Federal Government and President Bola Tinubu.

“We want to assure Nigerians that the Federal Government is working with Ogun State Government to discharge this frivolous order in Paris immediately.

“Nigerian government will always work to protect our national assets from predators and shylocks who masquerade as investors.

Ogun moves to vacate seizure order, faults fraudulent legal process by Zhongashan
Reacting to the court order yesterday, Ogun State Government faulted the judicial process that led to the provisional attachment of three Nigerian government-owned aircraft in France by the Judicial Court of Paris.

In a statement by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, Ogun State Government described the latest development as the new antics by the Chinese company to appropriate Nigerian assets in foreign jurisdictions, as past efforts had continually failed.

The statement described the legal process as nothing but a total charade with fraudulent notion, adding that the company deliberately concealed the litigation from both the Nigerian government and Ogun State, as well as their legal counsel before hurriedly securing orders of seizure.

It added that the company must have misled the Judicial Court of Paris as to the use and nature of the assets it sought to attach and not made full disclosure to the court as required by law.

According to the statement, Ogun State, alongside the Federal Government, has already taken immediate action to ensure that those provisional attachments are lifted quickly, even as it accused the company of reneging on earlier discussion for an amicable resolution of the case.

The state government also likened the case to that of P&ID, describing it as very unfortunate case of unscrupulous individuals masquerading as foreign investors with the sole aim of defrauding Ogun State and Nigeria at large.

The statement read: “On August 14, 2024, the attention of the Ogun State Government was drawn to the provisional attachment of three Nigerian government-owned aircraft in France by the Chinese company, Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Co. Ltd. (Zhongshan).

‘’Ogun State also learned of two orders of the Judicial Court of Paris dated March 7, 2024, and August 12, 2024, respectively, both obtained by Zhongshan without notice being duly given to the Federal Government or Nigeria, Ogun State or their legal counsel.

“This is the latest in a series of ill-advised attempts by Zhongshan to attach Nigerian-owned assets in foreign jurisdictions, none of which have to date led to the recovery of any sums from Nigeria.

“Each of the three aircraft is used solely for sovereign purposes and as such are immune from attachment under international and French laws.

“In obtaining the provisional attachments, Zhongshan deliberately withheld information from the Federal Government of Nigeria, Ogun State and their legal counsel.

“Just like the P&ID case, this is another unfortunate case of unscrupulous individuals masquerading as foreign investors with the sole aim of defrauding Ogun State and Nigeria.
“It should be recalled that the underlying contract between Ogun State and Zhongshan was executed in 2007, 12 years before the present administration, for the management of a free-trade zone. The parties entered into a dispute in 2015 with arbitration commencing in 2016.

“By 2019, when the current State Administration took office, the hearing at the arbitration had been all but concluded. The Arbitral Panel awarded over 60 million USD against the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) which was a co-Defendant, when all Zhongshan had done was to build a perimeter fence around the free-trade zone. Needless to say, this was a bad/unfair decision.

“The present state administration could not in all good conscience allow such an unconscionable and baseless decision, which would dissipate the commonwealth of the good people of Ogun State.

“Accordingly, and based on erudite legal advice, this administration resolved to resist enforcement of the award. The resistance was successful in eight different jurisdictions. Currently, there are pending appeals against recognition orders issued in both the US and UK.’’

It’s an international embarrassment —Peter Obi

Reacting to the development yesterday, the presidential candidate of Labour Party, LP, in 2023 elections, Mr Peter Obi, described the seizure of aircraft in Nigeria’s Presidential Air Fleet as an international embarrassment.

Obi said the development has exposed Nigeria’s failed leadership and poor attitude to the rule of law in a democracy.

He said: “The trending international news on the seizure of three jets belonging to Nigeria’s Presidential fleet is yet another of many embarrassing things exposing our failed leadership and our attitude to the rule of law, even in a democracy.

‘’It has also exposed multiple dimensions to our leadership failure and our insensitivity to the plight of the growing poor class in our midst.

“The fact that the Federal Government went ahead with the jet deal, despite the cacophonous cry against the purchase of a presidential jet at this time when the people are going through a horrifying economic hardship, shows the insensitivity of this administration.

“Added to it is the embarrassing aspect of our country’s presidential jets being held for contractual breaches arising from yet another dimension of inadequate leadership tidiness.

“I have been loud in my demand over time that government at all levels should be accountable to the people, meaning that they must be very transparent in all their dealings.

‘’Until a court in France prohibits Nigeria from moving or selling these three jets, Nigerians have no iota of information about both the buying and selling of these aircraft.

“It has been done in secrecy. Federal government property, which belongs to the people, is being managed as a personal family asset. Paying as much as $100million for a Presidential jet for a country that is the poverty capital of the world and has more out-of-school children with over 40% food inflation is the height of concern for the people’s feelings.

“This incident has also opened up an aspect of indiscipline that is copiously embedded in our country, which is the abuse and disrespect for the rule of law.

“Here are questions begging for answers: To what extent did Ogun Government follow its agreement with the Chinese firm?

“After the UK court ruling that prohibited some Nigerian buildings in Liverpool, what did both Ogun State and Federal Governments do before the French court action?

“I would like to, therefore, challenge the Federal Government to come clean and transparent on this matter and tell Nigerians how we got to this latest international mess.”

Vanguard News Nigeria

Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 election, says the seizure of three presidential jets by a French court is an “international embarrassment” to the country.

A Paris court recently ordered the seizure of three jets belonging to the Nigerian government over a dispute involving an arbitration award in favour of ZhongshanFucheng Industrial Investment Co. Ltd., a Chinese firm.

The court ruled that the Chinese firm should use the three jets at the Paris-Le Bourget and Basel-Mulhouse international airports “as security for its claim of EUR 74,459,221”.

However, the presidency on Thursday accused the Chinese firm of using “unorthodox and subterfuge” means to take away Nigeria’s offshore assets.

Obi, in a statement by Yunusa Tanko, his campaign spokesperson, said the seizure of presidential jets has exposed the federal government’s disregard for the rule of law and failure of leadership.

The former governor of Anambra said the federal government’s decision to proceed with the purchase of the jet amidst widespread criticism and severe economic struggles showed the insensitivity of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to the plight of citizens.

Obi also demanded that the federal government explain the circumstances surrounding the jet seizure.

“The trending international news on the seizure of three jets belonging to Nigeria’s presidential fleet is yet another of many embarrassing things exposing our failed leadership and our attitude to the rule of law even in a democracy,” the statement reads.

“It has also exposed multiple dimensions to our leadership failure and our insensitivity to the plight of the growing poor class in our midst.

“The fact that the federal government went ahead with the jet deal despite the cacophonous cry against the purchase of a presidential jet at this time when the people are going through a horrifying economic hardship shows the insensitivity of this administration.

“Added to it is the embarrassing aspect of our country’s presidential jets being held for contractual breaches arising from yet another dimension of inadequate leadership tidiness.

“I have been loud in my demand over time that the government at all levels should be accountable to the people, meaning that they must be very transparent in all their dealings.

“Until a court in France prohibits Nigeria from moving or selling these three jets, Nigerians have no iota of information about both the buying and selling of these aircraft.

“It has been done in secrecy. Federal government property, which belongs to the people, is being managed as a personal family asset.

“Paying as much as $100 million for a presidential jet for a country that is the poverty capital of the world and has more out-of-school children with over 40% food inflation is the height of concern for the people’s feelings.

“This incident has also opened up an aspect of indiscipline that is copiously embedded in our country, which is the abuse and disrespect for the rule of law.

“Here are questions begging for answers: To what extent did the Ogun government follow its agreement with the Chinese firm?

“After the UK court ruling that prohibited some Nigerian buildings in Liverpool, what did both Ogun state and the federal government do before the French court action?

“I would like to, therefore, challenge the federal government to come clean and transparent on this matter and tell Nigerians how we got to this latest international mess.”

[TheCable]

There is a growing concern again among Nigerians as the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), better known as fuel or petrol, is nearing ₦1,000 per litre at filling stations across states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja.

Naija News understands that the supply of petrol has experienced intermittent availability throughout the nation, resulting in numerous filling stations being unable to provide the product.

Recent findings have revealed the unpleasant experience of motorists and general consumers of the product in FCT and various States across Nigeria.

It has been revealed that at certain stations operated by members of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) in the satellite towns of the FCT, petrol is being sold for nearly ₦1,000 per litre.

Meanwhile, motorists are enduring extensive wait times at the outlets of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and a select few major oil marketers that are dispensing fuel within the city of Abuja.

The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria has attributed the ongoing petrol shortage to a lack of direct supply from the NNPCL.

Speaking on the development on Thursday, a former Chairman of IPMAN, Ejigbo Depot, Lagos, Akin Akinade, told Daily Trust that: “Our members have no direct supply from NNPC. We buy from Third Party. We buy at DAPMAN (Depot and Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria) Depot in Abule Ado.”

FCT/Abuja

Naija News learnt that numerous fuel stations in Abuja were closed yesterday, while the few that were operational experienced extensive queues.

This predicament began several days prior to the #EndBadGovernance protest, which started on the 1st of this month and has continued for over two weeks since then.

At the Umaru Ngelzarma Filling Station located in the Lokogoma area of Kabusa District in the FCT, one of our reporters noted yesterday that petrol was being sold at ₦980 per litre.

Additionally, at Christee’s Petrol Station, also situated in the Lokogoma area of Abuja, the price for the product was recorded at ₦950 per litre.

Long lines were observed at the NNPCL station in Katampe, along the Kubwa Expressway, where motorists indicated they were prepared to spend the night in order to purchase fuel at ₦617 per litre.

Another NNPCL station at Airport Junction, Jabi, was not dispensing fuel during a visit by one of our reporters yesterday.

This scenario was consistent across most petrol stations in Abuja and its surroundings, primarily due to the scarcity of the product.

Lagos

Journalists in Lagos reported yesterday that long lines formed at NNPCL stations offering fuel at ₦568 per litre, while other stations such as Mobil, MRS, and North West charged between ₦600 and ₦650 per litre.

Commercial drivers shared their significant worries regarding the ongoing scarcity and the steep price increases at the limited stations that are still operational, primarily located on the outskirts of the nation’s commercial hub.

“The hike in fuel price is the major problem we have in Nigeria. I bought ₦900- ₦950 in Calabar, that is why I have not travelled again. It is affecting our business.

“I left my bus because some filling stations sold ₦1,000 per litre,” Omotayo Adenikeju, a transporter, told newsmen.

However, a former chairman of IPMAN, Ejigbo Depot in Lagos, Akinade, told Daily Trust that third-party vendors from which some of their members source the product, “sell to us ₦840, ₦850; and by the time you add transportation to that, there’s no way our members would sell less than they’re selling.

“If they bring down their price, we’re also going to bring down our price. We’re in business to make money.”

Kano

Motorists in Kano reported purchasing fuel at ₦950 per litre from independent oil marketers’ stations, while NNPCL stations offered it at₦620.

This includes locations such as Kano Line, Kofar Nasarawa, Club Road near Murtala Muhammed Way, and Tal’udu Sabon Titi.

A commercial driver, Habibu Sani, expressed a preference for waiting in line at the NNPCL station rather than paying over ₦900 for a litre of fuel. Another driver, Kabiru Yakasai, stated that he had to park his vehicle due to the unaffordability of fuel priced above ₦900 per litre.

At an AY Maikifi outlet on Maiduguri Road, it was noted that fuel was being sold for ₦900, while A.A. Rano Station on Gyadi-Gyadi Zaria Road was dispensing it at ₦730.

Bashir Umar, an independent oil marketer in Kano, explained that the current supply shortage is due to marketers hesitating to transport fuel from Lagos, fearing a price drop once Dangote Refinery begins its market supply.

He indicated that marketers acquire fuel at ₦900 per litre in Kano and subsequently sell it for ₦950, accounting for transportation expenses.

Maiduguri

Reports from this region revealed that virtually all the NNPCL filling stations in the Borno State capital are located at the Bulumkutu area, along Kano Road; Mohammed Indimi Way, Off Damboa Road and Galadima Junction along Low-Cost Road, were closed yesterday.

A driver, Aminu Idris, said: “We cannot afford to buy petrol from independent marketers at ₦950”.

Speaking, IPMAN Chairman, Borno State chapter, Mohammed Kuluwu, told journalists that most stations in the state deliberately suspended fuel supply owing to “the crisis resulting from the #EndBadGovernance protest”.

Oyo

Naija News authoritatively reports that fuel is currently being sold at ₦850 and ₦900 at several filling stations in the Oke-Ogun axis of Oyo State.

Our correspondent, who recently bought fuel at two different stations, reports that the product was sold on Monday at ₦850 and subsequently, on Thursday, many of the petrol stations changed their pump price to ₦900.

Meanwhile, black markets around this region of the state currently sell the product at exorbitant prices.

CSO’s Reaction

Naija News reports that the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has conveyed its concerns regarding the ongoing fuel scarcity affecting Nigeria.

In a statement released by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA articulated its dissatisfaction with the federal government’s lack of response to this issue.

The organization noted that fuel scarcity has become a prevalent issue nationwide, with Abuja and other significant urban areas consistently experiencing extended fuel queues.

“Despite the various excuses provided by the NNPCL, the crisis persists, leading to speculations that the company may be benefiting from the situation.

“In the past three months alone, the NNPCL has churned out no fewer than five different excuses for the ongoing fuel scarcity, ranging from logistics challenges to supply chain disruptions.

“However, none of these explanations hold water, given that the crisis continues to linger unabated. If the NNPCL were serious about resolving the issue, they would have done so by now”, it said. HURIWA alleged that if the NNPCL had not benefited from the fuel crisis, it would have resolved it long ago.

“The simultaneous occurrence of fuel scarcity and the reported challenges faced by the Dangote Refinery suggest an orchestrated effort to undermine the refinery’s operations, further entrenching the NNPCL’s monopoly over Nigeria’s petroleum industry,” the organization noted.

However, the NNPCL has yet to issue any official statement regarding the recent development as of the time of filing this report.

[NaijaNews]

Nigeria is on the verge of securing a $500 million loan from the World Bank, a significant financial boost aimed at addressing critical challenges in the country’s education and healthcare sectors. 

This is according to the “Program Information Document (PID)” for the appraisal stage of the Nigeria Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity (HOPE) Governance Program. 

The proposed loan, part of the Nigeria Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity (HOPE) Governance Program, is intended to tackle long-standing staffing gaps and enhance the performance management of basic education teachers and primary healthcare workers. 

World Bank likely to approve loan next month 

The World Bank is expected to give its final approval for the loan on September 26, 2024.  

According to the PID seen by Nairametrics, the loan will focus on three major result areas, with the improvement of recruitment, deployment, and performance management of sector workers being a key component. 

This effort is particularly important given Nigeria’s alarming human capital index, which indicates that a child born in the country today will only achieve 36% of their productive potential if current levels of health and education services persist. 

One of the primary objectives of the loan is to incentivize improvements in workforce planning within the education and healthcare sectors.

The loan will provide the necessary financial resources to enhance the recruitment processes, ensuring that qualified professionals are adequately deployed to where they are most needed.

The initiative will also address the significant disparities in staffing across Nigeria’s regions, a challenge that has long plagued both sectors. 

Nigeria to leverage BVN, NIN to tackle payroll fraud 

In addition to workforce planning, the loan will support the adoption of new systems to improve payroll management and reduce fraud. This includes the implementation of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s Bank Verification Numbering (BVN) system and National Identity Numbers (NIN) platforms. 

These systems will play a crucial role in ensuring that funds are used efficiently and that only verified employees are on the payroll, thereby eliminating ghost workers. 

The planned introduction of biometric check-ins and community monitoring, where available, will further strengthen the accountability and performance of education and health workers. 

A part of the PID noted that one of the expected results of the loan program is improved recruitment, deployment, and performance management of basic education teachers and primary health workers, adding that: “This results area will incentivize: (i) the enhancement of the sector and workforce planning function, (ii) reduction of significant staffing gaps and improved deployment and management practices for basic education and primary health care workers, and (iii) adoption of new or existing systems such as the Central Bank of Nigeria Bank Verification Numbering (BVN) system and National Identity Numbers platforms to check payroll fraud, biometric check-ins where available, community monitoring, performance bonuses, automatic payroll deductions.” 

Loan program to run for four years 

• The HOPE Governance Program, under which this loan falls, is scheduled to run from 2024 to 2028, providing support for systemic reforms at both the state and federal levels, focusing on cross-sectoral issues such as financial resource allocation, public financial management, fiscal transparency, and accountability. 
• As part of the World Bank’s support, the loan will also incentivize the reduction of staffing gaps by 40%, with a target that at least 30% of new recruits will be women.
• This gender-sensitive approach is intended to address not only the quantity but also the quality and diversity of the workforce in these critical sectors. 
• The loan is part of a larger $2 billion government program that seeks to accelerate the provision of quality basic education and healthcare services across Nigeria. 

[Nairametrics]

Six months after his tragic death in a helicopter accident in California, eminent banker, Dr. Herbert Wigwe was celebrated by his family, friends and associates on his posthumous birthday on Thursday, August 15. In the privacy of their homes, they sang and prayed for his soul, children and relatives and in emotional public statements published in many newspapers, they were effusive in their outpouring of love and grief. Herbert died with his wife, Chizoba and son Chizi. Herbert’s friend, Abimbola, and the two pilots of the chopper, also perished. May their precious souls continue to rest in peace.

In a highly expressive statement written in the form of a letter to their departed son whom they fondly called ‘’Gege Papa’’ and released this morning, Herbert’s aged parents, Pastor Stella and Pastor Shyngle Wigwe write, ‘’words cannot express the depth of our love for you and the immense void your absence has left in our hearts. Today, 58 years ago, God blessed us with the precious gift of you, our beloved Gege. Though your departure was sudden and heartbreaking, we find solace in knowing that only the Almighty can mend our shattered hearts’’. They described him as ‘’extraordinary and remarkable son’’ and thanked God for his life. Reading the full message from Herbert’s parents is choking, and it’s clear that the Wigwes are still hurting. Indeed, there is no greater pain to a parent than the loss of a child. I experienced it 25 years ago; and I pray that nobody should experience it.

Herbert was born at Island Maternity Hospital in Lagos on August 15, 1966 – a momentous period in Nigeria’s political history. He died in the night of February 9, 2024, in California (early morning of February 10 Nigerian time). Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu had pledged at Herbert’s Nights of Tributes held at the Eko Convention Center, Victoria Island, Lagos, on March 4, to immortalize the departed business icon on the Lagos Island since ‘’he is an Island boy’’. The historic import of the statement was not lost on many in the cavernous hall that evening and I hope that the governor will make good his promise.

The part of Lagos State known as Lagos Island (Isale Eko in Yoruba) is a sprawling, crowded settlement well known as the native land of the indigenes of the city. Over the years, it has become a melting pot for Nigerians from different parts of the country and the center of culture, history and unabashed hedonism that give Lagos its uniqueness. My parents-in-law, from what is today Delta State, grew up on the Island, and so are millions of Nigerians from all over the country, some of whom had made the Island their permanent home.

It is in the Lagos Island that freed slaves from Brazil settled when they returned to what was then a British colony - a piece of history still ingrained in the architecture and some family names. It was on the Island that Dr. Herbert Macaulay, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe and the other founding fathers of the country began their political career and the long fight for the independence of our nation.

Historically, Lagos as we know it today has its origins in the Island, and this explains why the governor’s pledge to establish a memorial for Herbert over there carried a ring of historic importance. The governor was well applauded for the pledge in particular and for the searing tribute he gave in which he recalled his close relationship with the late banker. He had known Herbert for 34 years and Herbert had supported his governorship campaign generously and also support his administration through many financial initiatives, the governor announced. I enjoin Mr. Sanwo-Olu to fulfil this promise soon.

Herbert’s younger brother, Emeka, had cut short his trip to the US days earlier to enable him spend time with his parents and coordinate the family’s activities on this memorial day. He wrote: ‘’As I pen these words in on what would have been your 58th birthday, the weight of your absence weighs heavy on my heart. It feels as though a piece of the world has been taken with you, leaving a void that can never be filled’’. I have spoken with Emeka fairly a few times since his brother’s death, and it seems to me that he’s still inconsolable and devastated.

From Access Nation, comprising the over 28,000 men and women who work in the bank, the parent company and its many subsidiaries, came an early morning message released by Company Secretary Sunday Ekwochi, at 12.09am today. ‘’On this day, we remember the laughter, the shared moments and the countless ways you touched our lives. You may not be here to blow out the candles, but we will always honour your light that continues to shine brightly in our lives’’, it reads.

I published my own message in the form of a poem at 12.11am. The first stanza read: ‘’A leader, a mentor, a fearless warrior. Your presence is still felt, though you are out of sight. I remember you every day, and specially on your first posthumous birthday…’’. I added in the middle of the text: ‘’your energy, wisdom and kindness, I still recall’’.

Wigwe University and his foundation, The HOW Foundation, will remain two Herbert’s most enduring legacy. In a joint statement, titled ‘’Happy Birthday in Memoriam’’, the two institutions write, ‘’though you are no longer with us, your fearless commitment to excellence and humanity and continues to inspire and guide us. We celebrate your visionary leadership and the countless lives you touched. We shall remain steadfast in our dedication in carrying forward your extraordinary legacy’’.

From the family of Nigeria’s former Petroleum Minister, Chief Dan L. Etete came a soothing word of consolation to the Wigwes. Signed by the patriarch, Chief Etete himself, the prominent Odi, Kolokoma family wrote, ‘’We stand with the Wigwe Family, as we honour and remember our dearest father, son, brother and friend, Dr. Herbert O. Wigwe, CFR, a true icon and legend on his first posthumous birthday. Herbert was a perfect man and very dear to so many people. A very prosperous, and kindhearted man’’.

Truly, a life of impact that touches lives will always endure long after the body has gone.

President Bola Tinubu and Equatorial Guinean President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo on Wednesday evening in Malabo signed an agreement on Gulf of Guinea Pipeline Project, further affirming partnership for mutual development.

The agreement covered legislative and regulatory measures for the gas pipeline, establishment and operation, transit of natural gas, ownership of the gas pipeline, and general principles.

In his remarks at the event, President Tinubu, who is on a three-day official visit to Equatorial Guinea, said the signing of the agreement will open up new opportunities for gas exploration and employment.

The President stated that the two leaders had discussed issues related to the creation of employment, food security, multilateral relations, and conflict resolution mechanisms on the continent during a private meeting that preceded the signing of the agreement.

“Concerning Africa, conflicts and conflict resolution were discussed. We discussed various areas of conflicts and what we can do to promote peace.

“We talked about promotion of peace and stability in our countries, and growth and prosperity on our continent.

“In the same way that Europe and America have kept themselves and found a solution for their conflicts, we have to look at both inadequate capital, industrialization efforts, research and development programmes, and enlighten our people, navigate our way through problems.

“Instead of the crisis and conflicts that we see in the Republic of Congo, and others, we have to look inwards to solve problems ourselves,’’ the President said.

President Tinubu said the discussion with the President of Equatorial Guinea also covered challenges of security, African Continental Free Trade Area (ACFTA), and food security.

“We are all going for it. Within Africa and the African Union, we have resolved that we will work together to make sure that the solution to many of our problems in Africa comes from within,’’ the President concluded.

In his remarks, the President of Equatorial Guinea said bilateral relations with Nigeria over many years have been rewarding and emphasized the need to deepen cooperation across salient areas.

President Mbasogo said Africa’s vision of having a permanent seat in the Security Council of the United Nations is vital for the development of the continent, affirming that Equatorial Guinea will work with Nigeria to realize the objective.

The President of Equatorial Guinea said the signing of the agreement was strategic for Africa’s development.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar of Nigeria, and Mr. Simeon Oyono Esono, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Equatorial Guinea, also signed the agreement.

The Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Chief Lateef Fagbemi, SAN; Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru Abubakar; Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; Minister of State, Petroleum, Gas, Ekperikpe Ekpo, and Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Ibrahim- Biu were present at the signing of the agreement.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

Binance’s global regulatory woes continue with the latest episode happening in Brazil where the largest crypto exchange in the industry is expected to pay a fine of $1.7 million for derivatives trading violations.  

Binance will be paying $1.7 million to the Brazilian Securities and Exchange Commission (CVM) as a settlement following an investigation into its unauthorized derivatives trading in the country.  

The development was announced by CVM via an official statement on its website spelling out the details of the case and the amount Binance is expected to pay.  

“ The Board of the Securities and Exchange Commission (CVM), in a meeting on 8/13/2024, analyzed proposals for the Term of Commitment of the following administrative sanctioning processes (PAS): 

1. PAS 19957.008369/2022–11: B Fintech Technology Services Ltda.
2. PAS 19957.008992/2023–47 : Gafisa SA, Guilherme Augusto Soares Benevides and Ian Masini Monteiro de Andrade.
3. B Fintech Serviços de Tecnologia Ltda presented a new proposal for a Term of Commitment to terminate PAS CVM 19957.008369/2022–11.

In a meeting held on 8/29/2023, the CVM Board decided to reject the agreement with B Fintech Serviços de Tecnologia Ltda, as it understood that the execution of the Commitment Term would not be timely and convenient. 

On 2/15/2024, a new proposal for a Term of Commitment was presented, and, after negotiations with the Term of Commitment Committee (CTC), the proponent committed to pay the CVM R$9,600,000.00. The PFE-CVM concluded that there is no legal impediment to the execution of the agreement. 

Therefore, the CTC considered it appropriate and convenient to accept the agreement. 

The Board followed the CTC’s opinion and accepted the signing of a Commitment Term with B Fintech Serviços de Tecnologia Ltda.” CVM Stated  

For context, B Fintech Technology Services Ltd. is a shell company operated by Binance in Brazil.  

In May 2023, a Brazilian court recognized that the company was part of Binance Group.  

CVM initiated the investigation into Binance’s operations in July 2020, accusing the company of offering derivatives trading services without the required licenses.  

Binance tried to settle the matter by offering a paltry settlement fee of $370,000 to CVM which was turned down.  

Both parties finally agreed on a $1.7 million settlement fee according to the official statement by Brazil’s CVM above.  

What to Know  

• Binance is facing a lot of regulatory challenges in Various countries at the moment given the size and reach of the crypto exchange. The regulatory challenges all seem to border on Binance operating in a country without getting officially approved by relevant authorities.  

• Binance recently had a spat with India which it appears to have settled. It just settled its case with Brazil but the crypto exchange is still at loggerheads with Nigeria over claims of Tax evasion and money laundering.  

[Nairametrics]

In this interview with Vanguard’s Law and Human Rights, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice of Ondo State, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, SAN, spoke on various issues including the recent #Endbadgovernance protest and its handlers and the rights of Nigerians to protest.
He also reviewed the tenure of the outgoing Chief Justice of Nigeria, CJN, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, even as he set an agenda for the incoming CJN, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, who is widely reputed as a no-nonsense judicial officer.

Excerpt:
Before the commencement of the last #EndBadGovernance protest, the government made spirited efforts to abort it. How does this align with people’s fundamental rights to freedom of expression, association and movement?

Away with all the sentiments expressed before during and after the protest, the basic issues at play which remains uncontroverted in any quarters is the government’s efforts to strike a balance between maintenance of public order and ensure the citizens’ rights as guaranteed by our laws in Nigeria and I didn’t see it from the perspective of the government trying to abort the protest.

Nigeria’s democratic growth, I must stress, depends on balancing public order and citizens’ rights and it is  government’s responsibility to maintain order while respecting people’s fundamental rights. People’s democratic right, I won’t say is sacrosanct, but constitutional and in this context of our discussion, freedom of expression is essential for democratic participation and accountability. Freedom of association is crucial for collective action and advocacy. Freedom of movement is necessary for personal and economic development and in doing this and permitting the protest, we must learn from history. As an undergraduate schooling in Nigeria, I participated in countless  protests that left some dead, some maimed and arrested, the last one, EndSARS, is still fresh as it got to a point that the protest turned into something else which borders on  issues of public order. And no responsible government will go to sleep particularly when the organisers of the protest were gracious enough to give adequate notices.

You will recall that some lawyers on behalf of government also went to court to obtain injunction to restrict movement of protesters to a certain location. Tongues wagged. In your view, what is the implication of such court order on the nation’s fledgling democracy?

This is a complex issue that touches on the balance between the right to peaceful assembly and the government’s responsibility to maintain public order.On one hand, the right to protest is a fundamental democratic freedom that should be protected. Peaceful protests play a crucial role in giving voice to citizens and holding the government accountable. Restricting the movement of protesters should  be seen as exercising the responsibility placed on government to maintain order and safeguard lives and property. The government also has a duty to ensure public safety and prevent potential violence or disruptions to daily life. Mass protests in this side of our world lead to unrest, property damage, or clashes with security forces. In this context, a court order restricting protest locations may be intended to facilitate the exercise of the right to protest while managing potential public order issues.

Ultimately, I believe this is a delicate balance that requires careful consideration of the specific circumstances. The implications for democracy depend greatly on how the restrictions are implemented and whether they are reasonable and proportionate to the situation. Overly broad or heavy-handed limitations could indeed be problematic for democratic freedoms.

And mind you, we all have some unique way of doing things, like in Ondo State, Governor Aiyedatiwa’s approach was to engage constructively with the people to find mutually agreeable ways while maintaining public safety. Transparent communication, good-faith negotiation, and a commitment to protecting fundamental rights, are crucial factors here.

What is your advice for protesters in future on how to coordinate protest without it being hijacked by hoodlums?

It’s everyone’s fundamental right to peacefully protest without affecting others’ fundamental rights. In future, it is essential and very imperative to prioritise careful planning, effective communication, and a strong commitment to peaceful, disciplined protest, these particularly require that law enforcement agencies, media and the authorities are involved.

It is not out of place to first engage government to seek any other alternative to the protest. For example, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State engaged with everyone, listened to them and proffered solutions to their complaints and in addition, as Attorney-General of Ondo State, a 24-hour Intervention Unit, Citizens Rights and Advisory Bureau, CRAB, was created  wherein people of the state come with their complaints and enquiries through our dedicated phone lines and other electronic devices to get across to the governor and his aides. By taking these steps, protesters can work to prevent their message from being overshadowed or hijacked by outside agitators.

It does appear many Nigerians were disappointed with Tinubu’s speech after the #EndBadGovernance protest, for not addressing the issues raised by the protesters. How will you react to this?

Presidential speeches and the public’s reactions to them can be complex topics, involving factors like messaging, leadership, and the broader socio-political context.

How President Tinubu’s speech is viewed is subjective depending on who is reviewing it. The essence of the speech is the Presidential reaction to the protest and my take home first is that the President acknowledged the protest and said his administration was ready to listen to, and address the concerns of the protesters. Do not forget that the President humbly made it bold to claim that he has heard their calls “loud and clear” and he promised to fix all the concerns raised. In my opinion, the message gives hope, quite reflective, while trying to sooth the nerves of the aggrieved Nigerians. And, above all, did the speech serve its purpose? I will say yes as the President connected with the people, gave clear directives, and no one is on the street as we speak.

Justice Ariwoola will bow out of the bench in a week’s time. Justice Kekere- Ekun will take over. How will you score the outgoing CJN?

Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, has an eventful tenure as Chief Justice of Nigeria. He assumed the role in 2022 after the sudden resignation of the previous CJN, Justice Tanko Muhammad. During his time as CJN, Justice Ariwoola presided over several high-profile cases and sought to address some of the challenges facing the Nigerian judiciary.

On the positive side, Justice Ariwoola is credited with efforts to improve the efficiency and transparency of court processes. He championed the increased use of technology and Human Resources in court proceedings. During his tenure, the apex court had its full constitutional number of 21 Justices and he pushed for faster resolution of cases. The judiciary also saw improved conditions for court officials under his leadership. During Justice Ariwoola’s tenure, the Supreme Court broadly demonstrated her independence and pro-people and progressive tendencies, as I shall never be quick to forget the President Vs National Assembly matter that I defended successfully before the full panel of the court, CBN’s Currencies Change matter, Local Government Autonomy and host of other cases that accentuated the very best of the Court.

However, Justice Ariwoola also faced criticisms on certain fronts. There were concerns raised about allegations of bias and undue influence in some instances which remain unproven. The judiciary continued to grapple with funding shortfalls and infrastructure challenges during his tenure. We should not also forget the image of the Judiciary today which begs for improvement.

Overall, Baba made many positive strides, but also fell short in fully addressing the very deep-seated problems facing Nigeria’s justice system. The incoming CJN, Justice Kekere-Ekun, will have her work cut out for her in continuing the reform efforts.

What do you know about the incoming CJN and what is your advice for her, going forward?

My noble Lord, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun,  is a highly respected jurist with over 30 years of experience in the Nigerian judiciary. She has served as a Magistrate, then rose to become a Judge, and finally a Justice of the Supreme Court since 2013. She is known for her legal acumen, fairness, forthrightness, and fortitude. I have had several opportunities to appear before her, and I see her as a no-nonsense jurist.

Justice Kekere-Ekun has a reputation for being tough but impartial, with a steadfast commitment to upholding the rule of law.
This will be instrumental in restoring public confidence in the judiciary.
In all sincerity, I consider myself too humble a minion to advise the esteemed Justice Kudirat Motonmori Kekere-Ekun, as she takes on the role of CJN.

However, I will humbly beseech her Grace to consider the following: To prioritize a holistic agenda of judicial reforms, addressing the systemic challenges of inadequate funding, infrastructure deficits, and case backlogs.

To steadfastly work towards enhancing public trust and confidence in the judiciary through unwavering transparency, unimpeachable accountability, and the most steadfast fairness in all judicial proceedings.

To foster a spirit of collaborative synergy between the judiciary, the legislature, and the executive, thereby resolving any tensions and safeguarding the independence of the courts.

To invest diligently in the capacity-building of judges and court staff, while leveraging technological innovations to improve efficiency and widen access to justice.

To champion initiatives that shall promote the noble ideals of gender equality and diversity within the hallowed halls of the judiciary, for this shall undoubtedly strengthen the institution.

It is my fervent prayer that, with her Grace, wealth of experience and her demonstrated commitment to the rule of law, she shall steer the Nigerian judiciary towards a future of unparalleled excellence, despite the significant challenges that lie ahead. Her steady and discerning leadership shall undoubtedly make a most profound difference.

[Vanguard]