At a lively gathering in a popular relaxation center in Ogba, Lagos, the usual banter about current affairs and social media celebrities took an unexpected turn. The air was filled with chatter, drinks flowed, and laughter echoed across the space until one woman, clearly exasperated by the latest controversy involving Nigeria’s most flamboyant social media personality, Bob Risky, screamed, “Chai, this Bob Risky dey take risk sha!”

Her exclamation sparked a fresh wave of conversation about the controversial influencer, whose daring lifestyle and risky public behavior have become a topic of national debate. Bob Risky, real name, Idris Okuneye, has never been a stranger to hullabaloo, and in recent weeks, he has found himself at the center of even more serious legal and societal scrutiny. From gender identity discussions to allegations of financial misconduct, Bob Risky seems to live perpetually on the edge, and people are beginning to wonder just how far he can go before things spiral out of control.

The woman’s outburst in Ogba captured a sentiment shared by many Nigerians, both admirers and critics alike. Bob Risky’s lifestyle, filled with displays of luxury, flamboyant fashion, and unrestrained social media posts, seems to thrive on risk. He pushes boundaries, both in terms of cultural norms and legal limitations, constantly daring the public and authorities to challenge him.

The phrase “taking risks” is particularly apt when describing Bob Risky’s approach to fame. In a country as conservative as Nigeria, where traditional values run deep and laws governing behavior are strictly enforced, Bob Risky’s audacious public persona challenges societal expectations. His gender-fluid presentation, which includes cross-dressing and sometimes identifying as female, stirs both admiration and disdain in equal measure. Many wonder how he manages to walk such a precarious line without facing severe consequences, at least until recently.

The risks Bob Risky takes are no longer just about his image or identity; they now extend into legal territory. Presently, he has found himself at the center of a controversy following the leak of a voice note by fellow influencer Very Dark Man (VDM). In the leaked audio, Bobrisky in the leaked voice note alleges that be bribed some yet to be known officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) with N15m to delete a particular case from his case file when he was in the commission’s custody some months prior to his imprisonment, and in a similar vein heard saying that a certain “Godfather” connived with some officials of the Maximum and Mininum Custodial Centres, Kirikiri, Lagos State to  give him an apartment outside the custodial centre.Being an act that is out rightly against the law, the Federal Government, on Thursday, suspended the officers in charge of the Maximum and Minimum Custodial Centres, Kirikiri, Lagos State.

The voice note has not only raised concerns about Bobrisky’s deepening notoriety but has also reignited debates about the responsibility that comes with fame, particularly on social media platforms.

It is deeply concerning that Bob Risky, a highly scandalous individual, was reportedly granted the privilege of staying in accommodation outside the prison premises during his legal ordeal. Such preferential treatment raises serious questions about the fairness and integrity of the justice system, especially in a country where many ordinary citizens face harsh conditions while awaiting trial or serving time. This discrepancy highlights the troubling issue of inequality in how justice is administered, where influence and celebrity status appear to grant undue favors, undermining the core principle that justice should be blind and applied equally to all.

It was this perception of untouchability that likely prompted the woman at the relaxation center in Ogba to exclaim in disbelief, “This Bob Risky dey take risk sha!” The risks he takes go beyond self-expression, they now extend into legal, financial, and even moral territory.

For many young Nigerians, Bob Risky’s boldness is seen as a form of self-expression, a rejection of societal limitations. However, this admiration can come with a dangerous consequence: the emulation of a lifestyle that glorifies materialism, controversy, and a disregard for consequences. While it is important for individuals to express themselves freely, there is a need for young people to understand that not all risks are worth taking.

In fact, his latest troubles serve as a cautionary tale. His conduct, though bold, comes with significant challenges that could derail anyone who seeks to follow in his footsteps. Living a life based on controversy and risk-taking may bring short-term fame and attention, but it could also lead to long-term damage, both to one’s reputation and legal standing.

Throughout the annals of human history, there have been individuals whose extraordinary presence, courage, and commitment to justice stand out as rare gifts to humanity. These figures often emerge in times of profound social or political turmoil, sent by what many believe to be divine providence, to fight for the oppressed, challenge the status quo, and right the wrongs that seem insurmountable. One such individual in our time is the personality known as Very Dark Man, acronymically known as VDM, whose battle against injustice and advocacy for the downtrodden has earned him widespread admiration and respect.

What sets such individuals apart is their deep sense of purpose, their resilience in the face of opposition, and their seemingly unshakable moral compass. These qualities are not commonplace, nor do they emerge frequently. Indeed, personalities like Very Dark Man come at long intervals in the course of human history, and when they do appear, they represent a kind of moral lighthouse, guiding the masses through the fog of injustice, corruption, and oppression.

Many believe that personalities like Very Dark Man are not merely products of circumstance or random chance, but rather, that they are sent by God during critical periods in humanity’s journey. Their emergence is often seen as part of a divine plan, meant to awaken society to the injustices that have been allowed to fester for too long. In biblical history, figures like Moses, David, and Esther were called upon by God to deliver their people from oppression. Similarly, in modern times, we have seen leaders like Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, and Mahatma Gandhi rise to confront systemic inequality and guide their people toward justice.

Very Dark Man belongs to this lineage of extraordinary individuals. His purpose is not self-serving; rather, it is grounded in a deep sense of responsibility to those who are often voiceless and marginalized. He fights not for personal gain or recognition, but because he believes, deeply, that justice must prevail, no matter the cost. This kind of commitment is rare, and it is what makes Very Dark Man a unique and powerful figure in today’s world.

Very Dark Man has made it his mission to fight against the entrenched systems of injustice that pervade our society. In a world where inequality seems to grow wider every day, where the rich get richer, and the poor are left to fend for themselves, his voice has become a clarion call for those who suffer in silence. Whether he is confronting political corruption, social oppression, or economic exploitation, Very Dark Man stands as a fearless advocate for the people.

His activism goes beyond mere rhetoric. He has shown time and again that he is willing to take on the powerful, even when doing so puts him at great personal risk. His fearlessness in the face of adversity inspires others to stand up and speak out, and his leadership has galvanized many to join the fight for a more just and equitable society. Very Dark Man’s work is not just a reflection of his personal bravery, but a testament to his unwavering belief in the possibility of a better world.

Throughout history, we have seen that societies in turmoil require strong and visionary leaders to guide them through their darkest hours. These leaders are often rare, appearing only when they are most needed. Very Dark Man is one such leader. His leadership is not marked by authoritarianism or self-interest, but by compassion, empathy, and a deep commitment to the common good.

In a world where many leaders have become disconnected from the struggles of the people, Very Dark Man’s approach is refreshing and much needed. He understands the suffering of the marginalized, and he uses his platform to amplify their voices. His leadership is rooted in the belief that justice is not a privilege for the few, but a right for all. This is what makes him a rare and invaluable figure in today’s landscape of social activism.

While Very Dark Man’s fight against injustice is deeply personal, it is not a fight that he can, or should, take on alone. Individuals like him, who are willing to take on the systems of power and privilege, need the support and encouragement of the people. They face immense opposition from those who benefit from maintaining the status quo, and without the backing of the masses, their fight becomes exponentially harder.

As a society, we have a responsibility to stand with Very Dark Man. His fight is not just his own—it is our collective fight. By supporting him, we are supporting the cause of justice, equality, and fairness. We are sending a message that we will not allow injustice to go unchecked, and that we are willing to fight for a better future for all.

Encouraging Very Dark Man also means providing him with the moral and emotional support he needs to continue his work. The weight of fighting against injustice can be immense, and even the strongest of leaders need to know that they are not alone. By standing with him, we are ensuring that his fight continues and that the possibility of a more just society remains within reach.

One of the most important aspects of personalities like Very Dark Man is the legacy they leave behind. Their work is not just about addressing the injustices of the present, it is about laying the foundation for a better future. Very Dark Man’s fight against oppression, corruption, and inequality will serve as a blueprint for future generations, showing them that it is possible to stand up against injustice, no matter how powerful the forces of oppression may seem.

His story, like those of the great leaders who came before him, will be remembered for generations to come. He will be remembered not just as a fighter for justice, but as a beacon of hope, someone who believed in the possibility of a better world and was willing to risk everything to make that vision a reality.

Very Dark Man is a rare and extraordinary figure, whose presence in our time is nothing short of a gift from God. His relentless fight for justice, his unwavering commitment to the oppressed, and his fearless leadership make him a beacon of hope in an often unjust world.

However, his fight is not one that he can undertake alone. We must rally behind him, offer our support, and amplify his voice. By encouraging Very Dark Man in his noble quest, we are not only standing with him, but we are also standing for justice, equality, and humanity.

In the end, personalities like Very Dark Man do not come around often, and when they do, they must be cherished, supported, and celebrated. Let us not miss this opportunity to stand alongside him as he continues to fight for a better, fairer world for all.

World Tourism Day, celebrated annually on September 27, is a moment for countries across the globe to reflect on the power of tourism as a tool for socio-economic growth and cultural exchange. For Nigeria, a country blessed with diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and historical heritage, this day should be more than just a celebration. It should serve as a wake-up call to harness the vast, untapped potential that lies within its tourism sector.

With a population exceeding 200 million and over 250 ethnic groups, Nigeria boasts a rich cultural mosaic that is unrivaled in many parts of the world. From the picturesque Obudu Mountain Resort in Cross River State to the mystical Ogbunike Caves in Anambra State, Nigeria is home to numerous natural and historical attractions that can compete with global tourism destinations. Yet, these sites remain underdeveloped and under promoted, losing out on the massive economic benefits that tourism could bring. As the world celebrates this day, it is imperative for Nigeria to look inward, identify these opportunities, and take deliberate steps toward maximizing its tourism sector.

One of Nigeria’s greatest assets in tourism lies in its geographical diversity. From the sprawling savannahs of the North to the lush rainforests in the South, Nigeria’s natural landscape is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. The northern region, for instance, is home to the ancient city of Kano, with its historic walls and centuries-old markets. The Durbar festival held annually in Kano is a visual spectacle that draws visitors from around the world. However, despite its cultural richness, northern Nigeria is still not a major player in the global tourism scene.

In the southeast, the Arochukwu Long Juju slave route in Abia State is a poignant reminder of Nigeria’s role in the transatlantic slave trade. The route leads to a dark tunnel once used for human trafficking, and it holds deep historical significance. Yet, it is rarely visited by Nigerians or international tourists due to poor maintenance and lack of awareness. Similar historical and cultural landmarks can be found across the country, but they continue to languish in obscurity.

Nigeria also has natural wonders like the Olumo Rock in Abeokuta, the Erin Ijesha Waterfalls in Osun State, and the Idanre Hills in Ondo State, all of which are visually stunning and culturally significant. These destinations, though popular among locals, are largely unknown outside Nigeria. Infrastructure issues such as poor road networks, inadequate lodging facilities, and limited international flights make access to these sites difficult for foreign tourists.

Tourism is a major economic driver in many parts of the world, contributing billions of dollars to national economies and creating millions of jobs. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), tourism contributed over $8.8 trillion to the global economy in 2019, employing around 330 million people. In Nigeria, however, the contribution of tourism to the economy remains marginal, accounting for less than 5% of the country’s GDP. This is a stark contrast to countries like South Africa, where tourism contributes nearly 9% to the national economy, or Kenya, where the sector is a major pillar of economic growth.

With Nigeria grappling with high unemployment rates and over-reliance on crude oil revenues, tourism offers a viable alternative for economic diversification. The sector has the potential to create jobs, particularly for young people, who make up a significant portion of Nigeria’s population. From tour guides and hospitality workers to artisans and cultural performers, the ripple effect of tourism could generate employment in multiple sectors.

Additionally, tourism can foster the development of local communities. For example, rural areas where natural attractions like waterfalls and wildlife reserves are located can benefit from increased tourism through infrastructure development, such as better roads, schools, and healthcare facilities. The rise in eco-tourism and cultural tourism globally means that people are increasingly seeking authentic experiences that take them off the beaten path. Nigeria is well-positioned to tap into this trend, as many of its attractions are located in rural and semi-urban areas that offer rich, immersive experiences for travelers.

To fully unlock the potential of tourism, there needs to be a robust partnership between the government and the private sector. The Nigerian government must prioritize tourism as a strategic industry and allocate sufficient resources for its development. This includes improving infrastructure, ensuring security at tourist sites, and creating enabling policies that will attract both local and foreign investment.

One area where the government can make a significant impact is in simplifying the visa process. Currently, the bureaucratic hurdles for obtaining a Nigerian visa can be daunting for international tourists. Countries like Rwanda and Kenya have seen a surge in tourist arrivals after introducing visa-on-arrival policies or e-visa platforms. Nigeria should adopt similar initiatives to make it easier for tourists to visit the country.

The private sector also has a critical role to play in tourism development. From building hotels and resorts to offering transportation services and tour packages, private businesses can drive growth in the tourism sector. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) should be encouraged, where the government provides the enabling environment, and the private sector brings the necessary investment. Tourism operators, travel agencies, and hospitality entrepreneurs must also take the initiative to market Nigeria as a top destination for both leisure and business travel.

One of Nigeria’s unique selling points is its vibrant cultural festivals, which take place throughout the year. Festivals like the Osun-Osogbo Festival, the Argungu Fishing Festival, and the Calabar Carnival have the potential to become global tourist magnets. The Calabar Carnival, for instance, is already regarded as “Africa’s Biggest Street Party,” attracting thousands of visitors every December. However, the promotion and management of these festivals need to be improved to draw even larger international audiences.

Partnerships with international cultural organizations and influencers can also help spotlight Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage on the global stage. Leveraging social media platforms, engaging travel bloggers, and collaborating with global tourism networks will help put Nigeria on the map as a must-visit destination.

Of course, no discussion about tourism in Nigeria would be complete without acknowledging the challenges. Issues like insecurity, poor infrastructure, and a lack of political will have held back the development of the tourism sector for years. The insecurity caused by insurgencies, kidnappings, and banditry in parts of the country has tarnished Nigeria’s image as a safe destination for travelers. The government must invest more in securing tourist sites and ensuring the safety of visitors.

Similarly, infrastructure development must be prioritized. Without good roads, reliable power supply, and modern amenities, even the most beautiful tourist destinations will remain inaccessible. The Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, in collaboration with state governments, must ensure that the necessary infrastructure is in place to support the tourism industry.

As the world marks World Tourism Day, Nigeria must seize this opportunity to reposition its tourism sector as a key driver of economic growth and cultural diplomacy. The time has come for Nigeria to look inward, recognize the wealth of opportunities within its borders, and take bold steps toward becoming a global tourism destination.

With the right investments, policies, and collaborations, Nigeria can unlock the untapped potential of its tourism sector, creating jobs, generating revenue, and preserving its rich cultural heritage for future generations. This World Tourism Day should mark the beginning of a renewed commitment to tourism in Nigeria, a commitment that will not only transform the sector but also uplift the entire nation.

President Bola Tinubu extends his heartfelt condolence to Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom state on the shocking passing of his beloved wife, Pastor Patience Umo Eno.

On behalf of the Federal Government, the President commiserates with the Eno family, the government, and the people of Akwa Ibom state during this grim time.

The President joins them in mourning the painful and profound loss of the state's First Lady, who has supported Governor Eno's administration.

The President affirms that Patience Eno, as the wife to a visionary governor and an ordained gospel minister, embodied humility, resilience, and loyalty.

President Tinubu acknowledges that through her 'Golden Initiative for All,' she demonstrated her passion for serving the people and residents of Akwa Ibom state with love, honesty, and dedication, leaving a positive impact that will continue to inspire future generations.

He trusts that her selfless service to improve the lives of women, children, and the vulnerable will forever remain an important part of Akwa Ibom’s history, a legacy that will continue to inspire and be appreciated by future generations.

President Tinubu commits the grieving family, friends, and relatives to the comfort of the eternal God, who is the source of life and holds the future of all creation in his hands. He expresses his trust in their resilience and strength during this challenging time, offering reassurance and support.

Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)

After using the iPhone 16 for a few days, I felt the same way I did while watching the fourth season of Emily in Paris — familiar yet offering twists and turns that make the new edition much more adventurous. Maybe the changes aren’t as dramatic as before, but the allure of the new iPhone continues with more natural-looking photos, a button for taking pictures, and better battery life. The iPhone 16 won’t change the smartphone market, nor does Apple believe it will—it’s a guilty pleasure, much like every new season of Emily in Paris.

Apple iPhone 16 price in India (as reviewed): Rs 79,900 onwards

Improved design, with useful new buttons

 

Camera Control is the new button on the iPhone 16 series, and I’m getting used to it. (Image credit: Anuj Bhatia/The Indian Express)

When I first unboxed the iPhone 16 in a white finish, I immediately opened my closet to find all the early Apple products designed during the Jony Ive era—the iPod, iBook G3, iBook G4, and more. Even though Ive is no longer with Apple, I can still see his influence in the company’s newest products. There’s so much warmth when you hold the iPhone 16, and it evokes nostalgia—at least for me. The finish and quality are premium, and the thought that the iPhone 16 is an entry-level smartphone didn’t cross my mind. This is what I love about Apple, and that one thing hasn’t changed a bit.

The iPhone 16 is still a one-handed device and slides comfortably into my Levis. The flat-edged shape returns, as do the aluminum rails. Even the front-facing camera cutout morphs into a genuinely useful Dynamic Island, which remains the same as on the iPhone 15 (review). Externally, the iPhone 16 may not look any different from its predecessor, aside from the camera island, which is now a pill-shaped, two-lens oval reminiscent of the iPhone X. The new lens alignment allows the iPhone 16 to shoot stereoscopic spatial videos that enhance viewing with the Apple Vision Pro VR headset. Truth be told, the design continues to be impressive, but there’s nothing particularly special about the iPhone 16 from that perspective, so you could comfortably stick with your iPhone 14 or 15 without upgrading for at least another 2–3 years.

 

However, the iPhone 16 is getting a couple of new hardware buttons that may or may not change how you use the phone, depending on what type of user you are. But I beg to differ. I actually like the Action Button, which has been passed down from the Pro models and replaces the ring/silent switch. The Action Button serves as a shortcut to useful functions and features, like enabling ChatGPT or activating a Focus mode that limits distractions. You can assign it to a shortcut, including both complex user-built shortcuts and simpler Apple Shortcuts provided by the developers of the apps you use. I feel the Action Button will be relevant to far more users than the ring/silent switch ever was. It’s fun to use and makes it very easy to change your settings. Another new addition is the Camera Control button, which lets you quickly access camera functions and features (more on that later). It’s a brand-new hardware button that’s also coming to the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max.
The iPhone 16 now has a USB-C port instead of Lightning, just like the iPhone 15. It’s a good change, and if you are upgrading from older iPhones, it’s more than just swapping cables—Apple includes a very nice braided USB-C to USB-C cable in the box.

Camera Control button is an interesting addition to the iPhone

Camera control offers DSLR-like camera control to the latest iPhone. (Image credit: Anuj Bhatia/The Indian Express)

Apple likes to keep the design simple and avoid unnecessary buttons. But for a change, Apple is adding a second physical button to a device for the first time in many years. I think it’s a clever implementation. However, I have mixed feelings about the Camera Control button, which allows you to launch the camera, take photos, and adjust some settings. On the right side of the iPhone 16 is the Camera Control button—a real button that, when fully pressed, launches the camera app. It works like a traditional camera. However, the difference between this and a typical camera shutter button is that the one on the iPhone 16 is also touch- and pressure-sensitive, allowing you to “push halfway” to bring up another set of options, such as zooming in or switching between photographic styles. If you keep your finger on the button and half-push twice in quick succession, you’ll move up one level in the hierarchy and can swipe to access different commands. Then, half-push once to enter whatever controls you want, and you’re back to swiping.

The button itself feels good, and it only took a few minutes to learn how to navigate the Camera Control. However, I won’t be using it every day as Apple might hope, because sometimes the button feels too stiff to operate. There are times when I find myself going back to the on-screen shutter just for convenience. I believe the dual functions of the button need to be implemented better.

Bright display, but no 120Hz refresh rate yet

The display is bright but only refreshes 60 times per second. (Image credit: Anuj Bhatia/The Indian Express)

I wouldn’t make a big deal out of it, but seeing a 120Hz screen on a super affordable Android smartphone and not on a premium device like the iPhone 16 is worth mentioning. While it’s true that 120Hz is just a visual upgrade and doesn’t improve functionality, I would argue that a high-refresh-rate screen has a meaningful impact on the user experience, whether you are scrolling through your Instagram feed or playing a game. Apple ships the iPhone 16 with a 60Hz screen, which looks dated. Sure, the 6.1-inch display is bright and colorful, and if you have used the Pro models, you will notice that the iPhone 16’s feeds and web pages don’t feel nearly as buttery smooth by comparison.

 

Keeps getting faster

The iPhone 16 runs iOS 18 out-of-the-box. (Image credit: Anuj Bhatia/The Indian Express)

The iPhone 16 is a fast phone, and I bet it will feel faster than most premium Android smartphones on the market. However, the A18 chip that Apple used in the base iPhone 16 models (the Pro models use the A18 Pro) continues to improve incrementally. So yes, the A18 is faster, combined with extra RAM, than the A16-powered iPhone 15. However, I feel the improvements in chip processing power are modest, to say the least, and even older iPhones have enough horsepower for most general use cases. That said, the A18 may have an edge over older processors when running Apple Intelligence features, which I will highlight in detail later. Considering all this, the iPhone 16 offers a significant performance boost compared to the iPhone 15 or iPhone 14. Notably, the iPhone 16 does feel a little faster in daily use and when running the same apps compared to the iPhone 15. Does that warrant an upgrade to the iPhone 16? Probably not, but Apple Intelligence may change your mind, especially since these AI features will only support the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 series and won’t be available on the iPhone 15.

Apple Intelligence is not a killer feature yet, but it might be in the future

The iPhone 16 model will be capable of running Apple Intelligence. (Image credit: Anuj Bhatia/The Indian Express)

It’s ironic that Apple Intelligence is not yet available on the iPhone 16, yet Apple is heavily branding its AI features as a killer reason to upgrade to the latest iPhones. Maybe it’s a marketing ploy for some, but in reality, the set of AI features coming to the iPhone and other Apple devices may play a significant role in deciding whether to upgrade to the iPhone 16 or stick with your older iPhone.

I’m not an analyst or a trade pundit to forecast anything, but as a reviewer, all I can say is that compatible hardware is needed to run Apple Intelligence, which I feel is promising but still has a lot of room for improvement. I have been using Apple Intelligence as part of the developer beta for a couple of months, and Apple plans to roll out the first wave of AI features later this year for certain markets, with India possibly getting them sometime in the first half of next year. Based on my experience, what Apple is trying to do with Apple Intelligence isn’t too different from what Google has built into the Pixel 9 series. There’s a lot of common ground between Apple Intelligence and the features Google is incorporating into its Pixel smartphones, such as writing tools that use generative AI to proofread and improve text, summarising emails and notifications, and an image cleanup feature for removing unwanted objects from photos.

However, the difference between Apple Intelligence and other generative AI features lies in the ecosystem advantage that Apple offers and the promise of privacy that others can’t easily match. As I mentioned earlier, Apple Intelligence is still work in progress, and so is the iPhone 16. The reason for this is that Apple Intelligence serves as the foundation for an AI-powered smartphone like the iPhone 16, and if it isn’t available at launch, it puts Apple in an awkward position. Apple AI is not on the phone right now, which is running iOS 18. That being said, even without Apple Intelligence, the iPhone 16 does come with solid software features as part of iOS 18, including new ways to customise your home screen, reorganise your photos, send cash with a tap, and store your passwords in Apple’s sleek new password manager, among others.

[indianexpress]

Naija News reports that details of the debt were confirmed by the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) in its audit of the petroleum sector.

The report, presented on Friday in Abuja, detailed that as of August 31, 2024, the unpaid royalties and gas flare penalties owed to the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) amounted to $6.071 billion and ₦66.4 billion.

According to the report, the outstanding petroleum profit taxes, company income taxes, withholding taxes, and VAT owed to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) totalled $21.926 million and ₦492.8 million as of June 2024.

NEITI also noted a 9 percent decline in industry revenue for 2023, with figures showing $16.467 billion compared to $18.106 billion in 2022.

The report highlighted a total loss of 7.68 million barrels of crude oil in 2023 due to theft and measurement inaccuracies, marking a significant decrease of 79 percent from the 36.69 million barrels lost in 2022.

Additionally, 153.44 million barrels of crude oil production were deferred in 2023, with companies such as SPDC (39.13 million barrels), TEPNG (6.07 million barrels), and TUPNI (3.5 million barrels) being notably impacted.

It was also reported that the government disbursed ₦3.01 trillion as a petrol subsidy in 2023, a decrease from ₦4.71 trillion in 2022.

The report indicated that 23.54 billion litres of PMS (premium motor spirit) were imported into the country in 2022, while imports fell to 20.28 billion liters in 2023, reflecting a reduction of 3.25 billion litres, or a 14 percent decline, following the subsidy removal.

“A detailed 10-year trend analysis (2014-2023) shows that the highest annual PMS importation into the country, 23.54 billion litres, was recorded in 2022, while the lowest, 16.88 billion litres, was recorded in 2017. A total of N15.87 trillion was claimed as under-recovery/price differentials between 2006 and 2023, with the highest amount, N4.714 trillion, recorded in 2022,” the NEITI audit revealed.

In his remark at the report unveiling, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, assured stakeholders that the government would continue to grant NEITI the freedom to fulfil its mandate to the country and the global Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, EITI.

Sen. Akume said: “As the Chairman of the NEITI Board, I stand before you today to underscore the Federal Government’s respect for NEITI’s independence. While my role as Chairperson is a testament to the importance the government places on NEITI, it also signifies the commitment to ensure that NEITI operates independently, without interference, as mandated by the EITI standard. We must safeguard this independence with great care and diligence, ensuring that NEITI can operate free from undue influence.”

EFCC Chair Vows To Recover Revenues

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Olanipekun Olukayode, pledged to utilize the most recent report to facilitate the recovery of all outstanding revenues owed by the companies to the government.

He further stated that based on previous reports from NEITI, the EFCC has successfully recovered and remitted more than ₦1 billion to the Federal Government’s accounts.

[NaijaNews]

A serving Minister was quoted as saying, that the crisis in the country is being sponsored by those who wish to share power with the President. To me, there is nothing wrong with power sharing. It is only in a country like our own that it is a sin to lose an election. Much as it is wrong for the opposition to want to destroy the country because they are not in government, there is nothing bad in accommodating them in the government.

A coalition government is in no position an inferior government nor illegitimate. Power sharing is good for democracy. It helps to reduce the possibility of conflict between social groups. Power sharing makes people dependent and responsible. It is essential to avoid violent conflicts, tyranny of the majority and ensure political stability. Democratic rule and power sharing have close links. Power sharing is an integral component of the spirit of democratic rule. It is highly applicable in a diverse society as ours. Let’s face it, a united Nigeria is still a dream. Ethnicity is still the rule here, and if power sharing will help bring about progress and unity, let’s adopt it. Monopoly of power by group, a tribe, a political party, will lead to envy hatred, disunity and jealousy, no matter how that party got to power, even if they bought their way to power.

In some countries it is called coalition. In the first Republic we called it alliance, in the second Republic we called it accord.

In his inaugural address on May 29 last year, President Bola Tinubu GCFR, declared, “Today, Fate and Destiny join together to place the torch of human progress in our very hands. We dare not let it slip.

We lift high this torch so that it might shine on every household and in every heart that calls itself Nigerian. We hold this beam aloft because it lights our path with compassion, brotherhood, and peace. May this great light never EXTINGUISH.

Our administration shall govern on your behalf but never rule over you. We shall consult and dialogue but never dictate. We shall reach out to all but never put down a single person for holding views contrary to our own.

We are here to further mend and heal this nation, not tear and injure it.

In this vein, may I offer a few comments regarding the election that brought us to this juncture. It was a hard-fought contest. And it was also fairly won. Since the advent of the Fourth Republic, Nigeria has not held an election of better quality.

The outcome reflected the will of the people. However, my victory does not render me any more Nigerian than my opponents. Nor does it render them any less patriotic.

They shall forever be my fellow compatriots. And I will treat them as such. They represent important constituencies and concerns that wisdom dare not ignore”.

I remember in the first republic that there was an alliance between National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) AND ACTION GROUP. There was also an alliance between Northern People’s Congress (NPC) and Chief Ladoke Akintola’s Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP).

While at Olofin Anglican Grammar School in Idanre in Ondo state in 1964, I remember the first time I saw Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s wife, Chief Hannah Dideolu Awolowo (25 November 1915 – 19 September 2015) was when she came to Idanre, my hometown, in company of Chief Michael Okpara (NCNC), the then Premier of the Eastern Region, for a political rally. Their alliance then was called United Progressive Grand Alliance (UPGA).

The alliance between NPC and NNDP, transformed into what was known then as the NNA. That alliance produced the following as Ministers on March 31, 1965. They were Mr. M.T. Mbu(Minister of State in the Ministry of Defence, Navy), Alhaji Nuhu Bamali (Minister of State in the Ministry of External Affairs), Mr. Jaja Nwachukwu (Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance, Alhaji Usman Maitambari( Minister of State, Transport), Alhaji Ibrahim Tako) Minister of State, Defence, Army), Alhaji Hashim Adaji(Minister of State, Works), Mr. T.E. Orodi (Minister of State, Lagos Affairs), Chief H.O. Davies (Minister of State, Industries), Chief A. Akerele( Minister of State, Information), Alhaji Abdul Rasaq(Minister of State, Transport) and Mr. D. Ibekwe, Minister of State, External Affairs).

Others were Alhaji Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa (Prime Minister and External Affairs), Alhaji Muhammadu Ribadu (Defence), Chief Festus Okotie-Eboh(Finance), Alhaji Shehu Shagari(Internal Affairs), Alhaji Mahammadu Inuwa Wada(Works), Alhaji Zanna Bukar Dipcharima(Transport), Mr. Raymond Njoku(Communications), Dr. Kingsley O. Mbadiwe(Trade), Mr. Jaja Wachukwu (Aviation), Chief Adeniran Ogunsanya (Housing and Surveys), Chief A.M.A. Akinloye (Industries), Chief Ayo Rosiji(Information), Mr. R.A. Akinjide(Education), Mr. Adeleke Adedoyin(Labour), Mr. Alade Lamuye (Natural Resources and Research), Alhaji Yusufu Maitama Sule 9Mines and Power, Alhaji Waziri A. Ibrahim(Economic Development), Dr. T.O. Elias (Attorney-General and Justice), Dr. M.A. Majekodunmi(Health) and Chief J.C. Obande (Establishments).

Still fresh in memory was the NPN-NPP accord under a Presidential System of Government.

On August 9, 1979 the then Chief Justice of the Federation, Sir Darnley Arthur Alexander (28 January 1920-10 February 1989) GCON, who was born in Castries, Saint Lucia in the Caribbean but came to Nigeria in 1957, on the invitation of the Premier of the Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo GCFR, constituted elections tribunals that would give judgments on various petitions that may arise on the Senate, House of Representatives, Gubernatorial and State Assembly elections. He acted on the electoral decree 1977. The tribunals were for Imo, Gongola, Lagos and Kaduna zones.

For Imo zone, Justice Alexander named Honourable Justices A. A. Adeoba(chairman), F.I. E. Ukattuh and A.A. Ononuju as members. For Gongola zone Honourable Justices D.E.Y. Aghahowa (Chairman), M.U. Anisiobi and Alhaji Garba Alfa Tarfan as members while for Lagos zone Honourable Justices A. Allagoa, A. Desalu and A. O. Ejiwunmi were named. Kaduna zone included Honurable Justice S.E.J. Ecoma(Chairman), honourable Alhaji Bashir Sambo and Mr. S. A. Ibiyeye as members.

On the same day of August 9, 1979, Justice Alexander constituted the election tribunal on the Presidential election. Members of the tribunal were Justice Boonyamin Oladiran Kazeem (Chairman) while Justice A.I. Aseme and Justice A.B. Wali were members.

Justice Kazeem was born in Lagos on August 29, 1922. He had his education at the Government School, Lagos, Christ Missionary Society Grammar School, Lagos and the University of London, England. He was called to the Bar and as clerk, 1942-1950, crown counsel, 1954-1959, senior crown counsel, 1959-1961, principal crown counsel, 1961-1963, legal adviser, 1963-1964, deputy solicitor-general, 1964-1965, solicitor-general general and permanent secretary, 1965-1967, judge High Court, Lagos, 1967-1976, appointed judge, Federal Court of Appeal, 1977; member, Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, member and Nigerian Society of International Law.

Justice Kazeem was later elevated to the Court of Appeal and to the Supreme Court. On August 11, 1979, the Senate and Presidential elections were held throughout the country.

On August 17, 1979, the Federal Electoral Commission declared Alhaji Usman Aliyu Shehu Shagari as the winner of the Presidential Election.

In a two-page prepared statement read at a Press conference in Lagos by the returning officer, Mr. Fredrick Menkiti, the FEDECO said Alhaji Usman Aliyu Shehu Shagari GCFR (25 February 1925- 25 February 1925), satisfied the provision of section 34 (A), subsection (1)(C)(1) of the Electoral Decree No. 73 of 1977 by scoring the highest number of votes cast at the election. I attended the declaration on that day at Onikan, Lagos, almost forty-five years ago.

Mr. Menkiti declared “He also satisfied the provision of subsection (1) (c) (11) of the same section. He has not less than one-quarter of the votes cast at the election in each of at least two-thirds of all the states in the Federation.”

“The Electoral Commission considers that in absence of any legal explanation of guidance in the Electoral Decree, it has no alternative than to give the phrase at least two thirds of all the states in the Federation—in section 34(A) subsection 1 (c) 11 of the Electoral Decree the ordinary meaning which applies to it.

“In the circumstances, the candidate who scores at least one-quarter of the votes cast in 12 states and one-quarter of two-thirds, that is, at least one-sixth of the votes cast in the 13th state satisfies the requirement of the subsection.”

This is the full text of the Federal Electoral Commission’s statement on the presidential election on that day:

“I certify that having carried out my duties and the formalities required by the Electoral Decree 1977, the result of the poll carried out in the Federation on August 11, 1979, is as follows in order of the number of votes each candidate received: Candidate ALHAJI SHEHU SHAGARI 5, 698,857, Candidate CHIEF OBAFEMI AWOLOWO 4,916,651, Candidate DR. NNAMDI AZIKIWE 2,822,523, Candidate ALHAJI AMINU KANO 1,732,113, Candidate ALHAJI WAZIRI IBRAHIM 1,686,489.

Alhaji Shehu Shagari has satisfied the provision of Section 34 A subsection (i) (c) (i) of Electoral Decree No 13 of 1977, that is to say, he has the highest number of votes at the election.

From the details of the state-by-state results, this candidate has also satisfied the provision of sub-section (i) c) (ii) of the same election in each of at least two-thirds of all states in the Federation.

The Federal Electoral Commission considers that in the absence of any legal explanation or guidelines in the electoral decree, it has no alternative than to give the phrase “at least two-thirds of all states in the Federation” in section 34a subsection 1 (c) (ii) of the electoral decree the ordinary meaning which applies to it.

In the circumstances, the candidate who scores at least one-quarter of the votes cast in 12 states and one-quarter of two-thirds, that is, at least one sixth of the votes cast in the 13th state satisfies the requirement of the sub-section.

Accordingly, Alhaji Shehu Shagari GCFR is hereby declared elected President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria”.

After the declaration, Chief Obafemi Awolowo GCFR (25 February 1925- 9 May 1987) of the UPN went to the election tribunal headed by Justice Kazeem, who rejected his request.

Justice Alexander retired on August 21. The then Military Head of State, General Olusegun Obasanjo GCFR, invited Justice Atanda Fatai Williams (22 October1918-10 April 2002), then a Justice of the Supreme Court, to a meeting at the seat of power at Dodan Barracks, Lagos. At the meeting, Obasanjo offered Fatai-Williams the office of the Chief Justice of the Federation.

In his memoirs, FACES, CASES AND PLACES, published in 1983, Justice Fatai Williams claimed that the offer “was totally unexpected, and, for the first time in my life, I was at a loss for words”, adding that General Obasanjo “watched my discomfiture with relish and delight.”

Chief Awolowo’s petition finally ended in the Supreme Court which endorsed FEDECO’s declaration on September 26, 1979, just five days before the inauguration of Alhaji Shehu Shagari as the President. The case was SUIT NO SC62/1979.

Justice Fatai Williams was assisted in his ruling by Justice Mohammed Bello, Justice Mohammed Uwais, Justice Chike Idigbe and Justice Gabriel Ayo Irekefe. Justice Andrew Otutu Obaseki (11 June 1926- 13 July 2017) partially disagreed with the majority judgment while Justice Kayode Eso (18 September 1925-16 November 2012) supported Chief Awolowo’s position.

Addressing a press conference after the FEDECO declaration in Lagos which I also attended, Alhaji Shehu Shagari said “I extend my hands of friendship to them and ask them to join me in the task of building a united, prosperous and virile nation of which we can all be justly proud. We need an atmosphere of friendship amongst all Nigerians. I believe that if our nation is to be truly great, we must come together as a family to solve our common problems. After all, the objectives of all the five political parties are similar. So let us work together in harmony towards the fulfilment of these objectives”.

Thereafter his party, the NPN struck an accord with the NPP of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe (16 November 1904- 11 May 1996).

It was this accord that made it possible for Dr. Joseph Wayas of the NPN to be elected Senate President on October 9, 1979. He defeated the former Chief Judge of Bendel state, Justice F.O.M. Atake of the UPN by 53 to 42 votes. Dr. Wayas was nominated by Dr. Sola Saraki of the NPN (Ilorin/Asa) and seconded by Senator Garba Matta of NPP(Pankshin/Mangu/Kanam). Senator Atake was nominated by Senator E.I. Akpata of UPN (Bendel Central) and was seconded by Alhaji Idrisa Kadi of the GNPP (Borno North-Central).

The accord also enabled Senator John Wash Pam of the NPP to defeat Alhaji Sabo Barkin Zuwo of the PRP by 51 votes to 43 votes to become deputy Senate President. Senator John Wash Pam was nominated by Senator Jaja Nwachukwu, NPP (Aba) and was seconded by Senator Uba Ahmed—NPN (Bauchi South East), while Alhaji Ahmed Danbata of the PRP (Kano Central) nominated Senator Sabo Barkin Zuwo of the PRP and was seconded by Senator David Oke of the UPN (Ondo West).

In the election for the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr. Edwin Ume Ezeoke of the NPP(Nnewi) defeated Mr. Hamza M. Ngadiwa of the GNPP(Borno) by 245 to 201 votes. Chief Ezeoke was nominated by Mr. Yunusa Kaltungo of the NPN (Tangale-Waja South) and seconded by Lieutenant Colonel(rtd) P.C. Amadi of the NPP (Owerri North). Mr. Ngadiwa was nominated Dr. Gordon J. Idang of the UPN (Etinam II) and seconded by Mr. M.A. Olukoya—UPN(Ijebu-Ode).

For the post of deputy speaker, Alhaji Idris Ibrahim, NPN(Minna) defeated Mr. Faji Fajobi of the UPN(Ekiti South) by 244 to 201votes. Colonel(rtd) Amadi (Owerri North) nominated Alhaji Idris Ibrahim while Mr. Kaltungo seconded his nomination. Alhaji Sidi Alli of the PRP(Kano–Danbatta) nominated Mr. Fajobi and was seconded by Mr. Olaiya Fagbamigbe of the UPN(Akure).

All the elections were conducted by the then Clerk of the National Assembly, Alhaji Gidado Idris GCON.

On October 18, 1979, Presidential Shagari submitted thirty-three ministerial nominees to the Senate, presided over by Dr. Joseph Wayas (21 May 1941 – 30 November 2021). Four of the nominees were Nigerian Peoples Party (NPP)members. They were Chief Paul Unongo (Benue), Professor Ishaya Audu (Kaduna), Chief Ademola Thomas (Lagos) and Chief Mrs Janet Akinrinade (Oyo).

Apart from the Presidency at that time, the NPN had seven governors out of nineteen namely Alhaji Shehu Kangiwa(Sokoto), Chief Melford Okilo(Rivers), Alhaji Awwal Ibrahim(Niger), Alhaji Adamu Attah(Kwara), Dr. Clement Isong(Cross Rivers), Mr Apar Aku(Benue), Alhaji Abubakar Tatari Alli (Bauchi) while UPN had five governors—Chief Bisi Onabanjo(Ogun), Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin (Ondo), Chief Bola Ige(Oyo), Alhaji Lateef Jakande (Lagos) and Chief Ambrose Ali(Bendel). NPP had three governors— Chief Sam Mbakwe (Imo), Chief Jim Nwobodo (Anambra) and Mr. Solomon Lar (Plateau). The GNPP had two governors—Alhaji Abubakar Barde(Gongola) and Alhaji Goni(Borno). The PRP had two governors— Alhaji Abubakar Rimi(Kano) and Alhaji Balarabe Musa (Kaduna).

Even in the Senate elections, the NPN had 36 seats, UPN-28, NPP—16, GNPP—8 and PRP—7. In the House of Representatives NPN had 168, UPN—111, NPP—79, PRP—47 and GNPP—-44.

The following Senators were elected then—Prince Onyeabo Obi, Dr. Offia Nwali, Chief B.C. Okwu, Chief N.N. Anah and Mr. Isaiah N. Ani(Anambra)—-NPP; Alhaji A.D. Rufai, Alhaji Ibrahim Dimis, Alhaji Ibrahim Jalo Waziri, Alhaji Abdulkadir Yelwaji Saleh and Mr. Uba Ahmed(Bauchi)—NPN; Mr. D.O. Dafinone, Mr. Bardi Joe(both of NPN), Chief John Umolu, Chief E.O. Akpata and Justice Frankly O. Atake(UPN)—-Bendel; Mr. Andrew Abogede, Chief J.S. Tarka, Mr. Suemo Chia, Mr. B.A. Ebute and Colonel Ahmadu Ali (NPN)—Benue; Alhaji Idrisa Kadi, Mr Bukar Sanda, Mr. Jafaru Manga and Mr. Umaru Lawan Bama (GNPP) and Alhaji G. Lawan (UPN)—Borno; Mr. George Daniel and Prince Joseph Ansa(GNPP), Mr. Victor Akpan, Mr. Donald Etiebet and Dr. Joseph Wayas(all of the NPN)—-Cross River.

Pastor Luka Zanyazing, Mr. Bitrus B. Kajal, Alhaji Mahmud Waziri(GNPP), Mr. Iliya Audu(NPN) and Mr. Gayus Gilama(UPN)—Gongola; Mr. Emeka P. Echeruo, Dr. Elijah E. Emezie, Dr. Jaja Nwachukwu, Chief Tony Anyanwu and Mr. Simeon Ojukwu(NPP)—Imo; Alhaji Abba Ali, Mr. Jacob Madawaki and Alhaji Yusuf Ali(NPN), Mr. Bello Bakori and Alhaji Ibrahim Barau(PRP); Alhaji Adamu Gaya, Alhaji Ahmed Zakari, Alhaji Hamisu Musa, Alhaji Usman A. Dambata and Alhaji Sabo B. Zuwo(PRP)—Kano; Alhaji Isa Abonyi Obaro, Mr. Aliyu Mohamadu Gan and Dr. Olusola Saraki(NPN); Mr. Justus Olu Olabode and Mr. C.O. Adebayo(UPN); Alhaji Sikiru Shitta-Bey, Dr. Femi Ayantuga, Alhaji M.A.O. Abiru, Mr. Abayomi Durosinmi and Mr. Adeyiga Ajai(UPN)—Lagos; Alhaji Abubakar Magaji, Alhaji Jubrin Salihu, Alhaji Ibrahim Kolo, Alhaji Abdullahi Mangu and Colonel Garba Dada Paiko(NPN)—Niger state.

Mr. Ladega Daniel Adetola, Mr. Oyero Kunle, Mr. S.O. Sogbein, Chief J.A.O. Adebiyi and Mr. A.A. Adesanya(UPN)—Ogun; Chief E.K. Ogunleye, Mr. Michael Onukun, Professor D.O. Oke, Mr. Ayo Fasanmi and Professor S.A. Akintoye(UPN)—Ondo; Chief Adeleke Ayoola, Dr. Christopher Ilori, Mr. Ademola Adegoke, Dr. Christopher Adeoye and Mr. Olalere Adesina(UPN)—-Oyo; Mr. Abubakar Ibrahim, Mr. Garba Matta, Mr. John Wash Pam, Mr. George Hookwap and Mr. Muhammadu Musa(NPP)—Plateau; Mr. P.J. Ella and Dr. Obi Wali(NPP); Dr. O. Eberewariye, Mr. C.N. Nunije and Mr. Amatari Zuofa(NPN); Mr. Otto Bugundu, Mr. Haruna Muza, Alhaji Garuba Gada, Alhaji Hassan Zuru and Alhaji Garba Kware(NPN)—-Sokoto.

The domination of NPN in 1979 was not in doubt. But for reasons best known to Alhaji Shehu Shagari, the then President, he decided to go into partnership with NPP. He was aware the Presidential Constitution does not allow for partnership or alliance.

Since 1999 to date, no President has ever accommodated members of other parties in government, although some were appointed to government on individual recognition and not as party members. Late Chief Bola Ige, the present Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Chief Nyesom Wike and others, are examples.

In Nigeria, if you lose an election, you are nothing but an orphan. The winner takes all policy as contained in our current Constitution will not bring about the desired unity. It is harmful. No political party or group or tribe or association can do it alone.

Diversity is our strength; unity is our power.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission says it plans to invest $380 million in electricity in public schools and health centres in Nigeria, Benin, Chad and 16 other African countries.

The commission said the electrification exercise would be carried out through its Regional Off-Grid Electricity Access Project (ROGEAP) and it is aimed at addressing power deficit across the region.
The project is funded by the World Bank, Clean Technology Fund (CTF) and Directorate General of International Cooperation (DGIS) of the government of the Netherlands.

This was disclosed yesterday at a stakeholders’ engagement forum on energising public institutions in Nigeria, where the senior adviser at the commission on ROGEAP, El-hadji Sylla, said the project was aimed at increasing access to electricity for rural communities in the ECOWAS region.

“We want to promote a new innovative chain to electrify public institutions. Our target is to electrify schools and health centres to improve the service delivery. We are piloting the project in Nigeria and Benin Republic. The project covers 15 countries in the ECOWAS region and four countries in the Sahel region,” he said.

Speaking specifically on the implementation of the project in Nigeria, Sylla said the commission hopes to electrify selected public schools and health centres in the FCT, Niger and Nasarawa states in the next 18 months, noting that for the pilot project in Nigeria and Benin, they are targeting 18 months for completion but the entire project in the region is expected to be executed in five years in the various countries.

Also speaking, Engr. Bem Ayangeaor, the representative of the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu said rural electrification space in Nigeria had witnessed growth through grants and subsidies.

He said the ministry through capital subsidies administered by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), has been implementing innovative solutions to electrify rural communities.

[Leadership]

Nigerian workers have confirmed receiving Federal Government’s new minimum wage.

The spokesperson of Nigeria Labour Congress, Benson Upah and the Deputy President of the Trade Union Congress, Tommy Etim disclosed this in a separate statement on Thursday.

Upah and Etim’s comments come as DAILY POST exclusively reported on Thursday that the Federal Government has begun the payment of the N70,000 minimum wage.

Reacting to the new minimum wage payment commencement, Upah, asked establishments in the country to emulate the example set by the Federal Government.

“Yes, I think so. We ask other entities to emulate this example”, he said.

Similarly, TUC’s Etim said, “FG’s committee on consequential adjustments already released a template, so, no one has any moral ground to delay the payment of the minimum wage. We now advise that all other parties follow suit and commence the payment of the new minimum wage.”

A civil servant working in the office of the Head of Civil Service, who is not authorized to speak, also confirmed that he has received a new minimum wage payment for September 2024.

“I got an alert around 2 pm on Thursday. I am hoping the arrears will come too”, he told DAILY POST.

Some of the federal workers confirmed that they received an additional N40,000 to their previous salary, as consequential adjustment.

The implication meant that over 1.2 million workers under the federal government’s payment have begun to receive payment of the new minimum wage.

On Tuesday Chairman of the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, Ekpo Nta, confirmed that the government has approved the upward review of the consolidated public service salary structure, CONPSS in line with the Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act, 2024.

This followed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval of N70,000 new Minimum wage on July 18, 2024.

Tinubu’s approval was followed by the Senate passage of the new minimum wage bill into law.

The N70,000 minimum wage was a 100 percent pay rise from the N30,000 paid under President Muhammadu Buhari’s government.

Meanwhile, the payment rise implementation for Nigerian workers came at the same time prices of goods and services had hit the rooftops as Headline and Food Inflation stood at 32.15 and 37.52 percent in August 2024.

[DailyPost]

Ms. YAN Yuqing, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos, has described Nigeria as the largest engineering contracting market for China in Africa.

Yuqing disclosed that Chinese companies have been actively participating in infrastructural projects in Nigeria, saying that their participation significantly promote local economic and social development, and improving people’s livelihoods.  

She stated this in her article tittled ” UNGA Resolution 2758 Brooks no challenge”, saying China and Nigeria, under the strategic guidance of head-of-state diplomacy, will deepen mutual trust and cooperation in various fields. 

“China and Nigeria, under the strategic guidance of head-of-state diplomacy, will deepen mutual trust and cooperation in various fields, firmly support each other’s core interests, join hands to build a high-level China-Nigeria Community with a shared future, and uphold a new international order based on equity and justice”, she added.

“FOCAC was a remarkable event, attended by the leaders of 53 out of 54 African countries that have established diplomatic relations with China, along with nearly 6,000 Chinese and foreign guests. 

“The summit adopted by consensus the Beijing Declaration on Jointly Building an All-Weather China-Africa Community with a Shared Future for the New Era, which clearly states that Africa reaffirms its firm commitment to the one-China principle, and reaffirms that there is but one China in the world, Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory and the Government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China, and firmly supports all efforts by the Chinese government to achieve national reunification. The FOCAC has created strong momentum in favour of one-China principle”

Yuqing stated: “The People’s Republic of China and the Federal Republic of Nigeria established diplomatic relations on February 10, 1971, and the Joint Communiqué on the establishment states that the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria recognizes the Government of the People’s Republic of China as the sole lawful Government representing the entire Chinese people.” 

“Since then, the bilateral relations have developed robustly and smoothly on the basis of the one-China Principle. Recently, President Tinubu was invited to visit China and attend the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), and the Nigerian side reaffirmed in the China-Nigerian Joint Statement that “firmly adheres to the one-China principle, acknowledges that there is but one China in the world, and the government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory. 

“Nigeria opposes any form of ‘Taiwan independence’ or interference in the internal affairs of China and firmly supports all efforts made by the Chinese government to achieve national reunification and the Chinese side supports the Renewed Hope Agenda of Nigeria and the efforts made by Nigeria to maintain national unity, peace, security, and social stability, as well as promote economic development and improve people’s welfare”.

[TheNation]