Nigeria forward Victor Osimhen is set to make his 100th Serie A appearance for reigning champions Napoli against Torino.

The Partenopei will entertain Torino at the Diego Armando Maradona on Friday (today).

Osimhen linked up with Napoli from Ligue 1 club, Lille in 2020.

The 25-year-old has featured in 99 league games from a possible 141.

The striker has so far scored 61 goals for Napoli in the Italian top-flight.

He helped Napoli win their first Scudetto in over three decades last season, netting 26 times in 32 league outings.

A forensic expert and witness of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr Bamaiyi Mairiga, has admitted that forensic examination was not carried out on the signature of the former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr Godwin Emefiele, who is being tried by the federal government over alleged $6.2 million fraud.

The witness made the admission under cross examination by Emefiele’s lawyer, Mr Mathew Burkaa (SAN).

Emefiele is standing trial for an alleged 20-count amended charge preferred against him by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (OAGF).

He was alleged to have engaged in criminal breach of trust, forgery, conspiracy to obtain by false pretence and obtaining money by false pretence when he served as the apex bank’s boss.

Among the allegations was that the former CBN boss forged a document entitled: Re: Presidential Directive on Foreign Election Observer Missions dated January 26, 2023 with Ref No. SGF.43/L.01/201 and purportedly to have emanated from the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (AGF).

During the court sitting on Thursday, the witness, who is the sixth to be called by the prosecution, presented report of the Forensic Document Examination (FDE) carried out on the signatures of former President Muhammadu Buhari and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) , Mr Boss Mustapha.

According to him, his forensic examination was limited to only Buhari and Mustapha.
He told the court he did not carry out the forensic examination of Emefiele’s signature because the EFCC did not submit it to him, adding that he did not know why the defendant is standing trial.

He also admitted that the request for the forensic document examination was made by the operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Earlier, Mairiga had informed the court that the signatures of Buhari and Mustapha were forged in two separate letters used to facilitate the withdrawal of $6.2 million from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

Led in evidence by prosecution lawyer, Mr Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, the witness stated that he analysed documents carrying the “disputed signature” and the “specimen signature” in order to identify individual characteristics present or absent in each of the signatures.

He said, “Conclusion from the analysis revealed that the disputed document showed evidence of forgery and copying as the same movement in formation and the skill of execution were found to be different from that of the specimen signature.”
At the end of his evidence, Mairiga went ahead to tender the said documents used in the forensic analysis which were admitted by the court as exhibits.
Sources however wondered why Emefiele’s signature was not sent for forensic examination given that he was the first to raise an alarm after meeting with a special investigator, Mr Jim Obazee, that his signature had been forged.

HIS Excellency Emmanuel Macron, the President of France, is a pendulum. He dangles across political and ideological lines. Sometimes, he seems to forget what he said in the morning. It is therefore not surprising that in the Russo-Ukrainian War, he has swung from being a peacemaker in 2022, to an advocate of damaging Russia without destroying it, on to demanding in 2024, an outright invasion and destruction of Russia.

 I am sure he is not so daft not to realise that his advocacy to militarily overrun Moscow, is an invitation to a Third World War. I don’t know if he cares; his objectives are to grab the headlines and, position himself as the leader of the so-called free world.

The contemporary Ukrainian political crises began in November 2004 following disputed presidential election re-run between the pro- Russian candidate from the Eastern Ukraine, Viktor Yanukovych and Viktor Yushchenko which was won by the former. What followed were street protests in some parts of the country, and the election results were annulled. In the second re-run, Yushchenko was declared winner and was sworn-in as President. This was called the ‘Orange Revolution’.

In the 2010 elections, Yanukovych, the pro-Russian candidate, again, won. This time, his election was not annulled. However, when, three years later, his government decided to sign a trade pact with Russia, rather than the European Union, pro-West forces staged street protests and on February 21, 2014, President Yanukovych fled the capital, Kyiv. Next day, the parliament, claiming that the President had withdrawn from his constitutional duties by fleeing the capital, removed him from office.

 Eastern Ukraine protested that it was the second time it was being deprived of the presidency it had won through the ballot box. It therefore refused to recognise the new government, insisting that only a democratically elected President can preside over the country. This led to a civil war in which the Ukrainian armed forces, backed by the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation, NATO, took on the Russian–backed rebels.

Two peace accords were signed in Minsk, capital of Belarus, to end the conflict. The Minsk Peace agreements provided for a ceasefire, constitutional reforms, including decentralisation, a federal system and special status for the eastern regions of Donetsk and Lugansk.

 This was where Macron came in. He, like the German Chancellor, Angela Merkel, pressed that the peace accords signed by all sides, should be implemented. But the then Ukrainian President, Petro Poroshenko, refused to implement them. He insisted on conquering the rebels.

However, Volodymyr Zelensky, as a candidate, campaigned that he would implement the peace accords. He told the Eastern Ukrainians that he would “continue in the direction of the Minsk Talks and head towards concluding a ceasefire”. But after his 2019 election, he reneged and, rather, sent troops to overrun that part of the country.

Justifying his sabotage of the peace agreements, Zelensky in an interview with the German newspaper, Der Spiegel, published on February 9, 2023, said: “Procrastination is perfectly fine in diplomacy”. He added that he merely “jumped on the (peace) train” to deceive Russia and prepare for war.  

Former French President, Francois Hollande, confirmed that Ukraine was not interested in a peaceful resolution of the civil war. He said: “Since 2014, Ukraine has strengthened its military posture. Indeed, the Ukrainian army was completely different from that of 2014. It was better trained and equipped. It is the merit of the Minsk Agreements to have given the Ukrainian army this opportunity.”

Merkel also confirmed that rather than seek a peaceful resolution of the differences in the country, Ukraine decided to stockpile Western weapons, strengthen its armed forces and prepare for war with Russia.

Former Israeli Prime Minister, Naftali Bennet, said he thought the Russo-Ukrainian War was avoidable. So, he decided to broker peace between Russia and Ukraine, but that the United States and Europe blocked the process, insisting that there is the need “by the West to keep striking Putin” and ensure that the civil war in Ukraine escalated. He reiterated: “They blocked it, and I thought they’re wrong”.

Macron also did not agree Europe should encourage war in Ukraine rather than peace. On February 7, 2022, he met President Vladmir Putin in the Kremlin. On February 22, 2022, Russia decided to support the Ukrainian rebels military by attacking Ukraine. Despite this, Macron kept an open communication line with Russia.

Following the war, he changed his attitude towards Russia. Putin said of this: “At some point, the French President stopped the relationship with us. We didn’t do it, I didn’t. He did. If there’s interest, we’re ready. If not, we’ll cope.”

Then on Saturday, February 18, 2023, Macron moved to advocate the defeat of Russia, but not its humiliation. He told the Le Journal du Dimanche paper: “I do not think, as some people do, that we must aim for a total defeat of Russia, attacking Russia on its own soil. Those observers want to, above all else, crush Russia. That has never been the position of France and it will never be our position.”

At the end of February, 2024, Macron had completely changed his position. He said: “We are convinced that the defeat of Russia is indispensable for stability and security in Europe…We are determined to do whatever it takes for as long as it takes” to help Ukraine defeat Russia. Then he dropped the bombshell: “There is no consensus today to send (NATO) ground forces in an official, acknowledged and approved manner. But in a dynamic situation, nothing should be ruled out. We’ll do everything necessary so that Russia cannot win this war.”

So, does Macron think that Russia, a nuclear power, would watch NATO forces stroll into Moscow? It is like expecting the United States to watch foreign troops march across New York and seize Washington.

 Even if Macron is suicidal, I am sure NATO is not. It is aware that even in a conventional warfare, the prize of its troops taking on Russia, will be quite high. Other Europeans are not as daft as Ukraine that is using its youths as cannon fodder. Also, NATO as an alliance, is smart enough to realise that it is not the only game in the world. In other words, in the event of war, Russia will have allies.

Thirdly, NATO is smart enough to know that while the first and second all-European wars of the 20th Century, christened the First and Second World Wars, were fought with conventional weapons, the third one will not be fought only with such weapons.

Since humanity is not ready for the Third World War, it is logical to ask when Macron will leave the French Presidency; 2027 may be too far.

The Cosmopolitan Women’s Cub of Lagos on The Occasion of The International Women’s Day 2024 Joins All Women of Every Strata in Nigeria and The World Over to Once Again Celebrate Ourselves.

It is good to thank God for the success thus far of the millions of women’s march for women’s rights as human rights.

However, it looks like no sooner have women seemed to have broken the glass ceiling than is it replaced by a tripled glazed glass barrier.

Poverty is rife and has sadly attained generational dimension and women are amongst the poorest of the poor.

Families are without the basic necessities of life and end up going to bed hungry. 

Extremely high cost of living and inflation have reduced households to a status of indignity.

Disease and poverty have excluded large numbers of women and children from basic human needs of healthcare and housing. 

Gender inequality impacts on empowerment of women in politics and decision-making positions thereby leading to exclusion.

So, as we reflect on the IWD theme inspire inclusion, let us resolve to act in unison to break down all barriers to women’s liberation.

Happy International Women’s Day.

Dame Marie Fatayi-Williams President Cosmopolitan Women’s Club, Lagos

In the heart of Nigeria, lies the Home of Solid Minerals-Nasarawa State. A land with a profound tapestry of culture and resilience woven by its women, a testament to their unwavering strength, tenacity, and unyielding spirit of purpose and drive. As we commemorate International Women's Day on March 8, 2024, under the theme "Inspire Inclusion," it is imperative to pay homage to these unsung heroes whose perseverance has shaped communities and inspired change locally and internationally.

Despite facing formidable challenges, Nasarawa women have stood tall, confronting adversity with grace and determination, making their mark and weaving a ribbon of hope across sectors. As the economic landscape continues to shift, Nasarawa women adapt and innovate, harnessing their academic and entrepreneurial spirit to navigate uncertain terrains. In doing so, they have kept their farms and motherhood, promoting their culture and community through enterprises and non-classified businesses while helping to sustain societal life wire by educating their children in difficulty yet happy to do so. From the bustling markets and the serene villages to urban professional realms, their presence resonates with a quiet yet formidable power, driving progress and fostering unity within their families and the society at large.

Through entrepreneurship, education, and community initiatives, they have defied odds, are breaking barriers and shattering cultural and religious stereotypes along the way to emerge as beacons of hope. Their resilience knows no bounds, serving as a reminder of the boundless potential that lies within each woman.

The road ahead remains fraught with obstacles, underscoring the urgent need for investment in women's empowerment. In times of economic uncertainty, women often bear the brunt of financial instability, facing systemic barriers that hinder their progress and limit their opportunities. Yet, it is precisely during these challenging times that investing in women becomes even more critical. By encouraging and providing access to quality education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, we not only uplift individual lives but also catalyze progress on a societal scale. Nasarawa women are not just content to be beneficiaries of investment; they want to be catalysts for transformative change, driving innovation, and fostering inclusive growth across diverse sectors. Nasarawa women are among several others that have proven their capacity to contribute to statecraft and nation building. They are educated, motivated, and inspiring role models for the young and next generation of Nasarawa women, many of whom are doing wonders in sports, the arts, fashion, education, and the public service. Inspite of it all, the road is still a distance in politics and big business. By their disposition and resilience, they are conquerors and time shall tell even sooner than later.

 As we celebrate the resilience of Nasarawa women this International Women's Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to their empowerment. Let us amplify their voices, champion their causes, and create an enabling environment where every woman can thrive. Together, let us harness the power of diversity and inclusion to accelerate progress, realizing the full potential of our nation and beyond.

This tribute by Amina Omeri is dedicated to the following noteworthy women of Nasarawa both young and old who have set the milestone on attainable pedestals of hope and possibility.

Dr. Halima Doma

Dr. Hauwau Mainoma

Dr. Comfort Adokwe

Mrs. Martina Ibrahim Shuaibu

Mrs. Elizabeth Ogabo mni

Mrs. Zainab Abdulmumuni

Mrs. phoebe Ayenaje

Hajiya Iman Suleiman

Hajiya Lantana Ahmed

Late Dr. Fatima Othman

Late Mrs. Rebecca Umaru

The Unknown Woman of Nasarawa

The Central Bank of Nigeria says foreign portfolio inflow into Nigeria surged $2.3 billion in the first two months of 2024 compared to $3.9 billion recorded in 2023.

The Acting Director of Corporate Communications at CBN, Hakama Sidi Ali, disclosed this on Thursday.

She noted that foreign investors purchased more than $1 billion in Nigerian assets in February alone.

According to her, the surge in foreign investor’s interest in Nigeria has led to total portfolio flows reaching $2.3 billion in 2024.

Meanwhile, the apex bank said diaspora remittances surged by 443 per cent to $1.3 billion in February.

“Foreign investors purchased more than US$1 billion of Nigerian assets last month, with total portfolio flows of at least US$2.3 billion recorded thus far in 2024 compared to US$ 3.9 billion seen in total for last year,” she stated.

DAILY POST recalls that foreign investment portfolios in the fourth quarter of 2023 surged by 66.77 per cent to $1,060.73 million in the fourth quarter of 2023 compared to the preceding quarter.

Meanwhile, an economic think tank group, Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise, said the recently introduced expatriate employment levy will hurt FDI in Nigeria.

The University of Ibadan has emerged as the institution with the highest number of First Class graduates from the November 2023 Nigerian Law School Bar Exams.

Out of the 144 students from UI who were called to the Bar, an impressive 27 earned First Class honors. 

The Lagos campus of the Law School also recorded an outstanding performance, producing 61 First Class graduates out of the 961 students enrolled there – the highest among all the campuses.

While some state and private universities are making their mark, a few prominent older institutions like the University of Benin, Ahmadu Bello University, Bayero University, American University of Nigeria, and the contingent of foreign students did not have any First Class graduates on the list.

Following the Lagos campus, the Port Harcourt campus with 1,018 students had 56 First Class graduates, while the Abuja campus with 1,094 students recorded 54 First Class graduates. The other campuses at Kano, Enugu, Yola, and Yenagoa also produced several First Class graduates.

Among the top 10 universities that produced the highest number of First Class graduates are Afe Babalola University, Babcock University, Obafemi Awolowo University, and Benson Idahosa University. The University of Lagos, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Olabisi Onabanjo University, and Lagos State University also featured prominently on the list.

Other institutions that secured spots in the First Class rankings include Rivers State University, Abia State University, Bowen University, Adeleke University, and Ebonyi State University.

A few well-known universities like BAZE University, University of Nigeria Nsukka, University of Jos, University of Calabar, and University of Ilorin managed to have at least one First Class graduate each in the November 2023 Nigerian Law School Bar Exams.

A total of 4,412 candidates were successful out of a total of 5,300 who sat for the examination. Among the successful candidates, 251 had First Class. On the other hand, a total of 888 candidates failed the final Bar examination conducted in November 2023. The Call to Bar ceremonies, which commenced on Tuesday, concluded today with the successful candidates being called to the Nigerian Bar.

Appoints New Management Team

President Bola Tinubu has approved the indefinite suspension of Ahmad Salihijo Ahmad, the Managing Director/CEO of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), and three Executive Directors of the Agency from their positions in light of fresh information uncovered during a thorough investigation into the financial activities of the Agency.

The three Executive Directors are;

(1) Olaniyi Alaba Netufo — Executive Director, Corporate Services

(2) Barka Sajou — Executive Director, Technical Services

(3) Sa’adatu Balgore — Executive Director, Rural Electrification Fund (REF)

President Tinubu has also ordered a wider investigation into the conduct of the aforementioned officials in a fraudulent misexpenditure amounting to over N1.2 billion over the past two years, some of which has already been recovered by anti-graft agencies.

By the directive of the President, the following qualified Nigerians are appointed to serve in the new management team of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) in acting capacity with immediate effect:

(1) Abba Abubakar Aliyu — Managing Director/CEO

(2) Ayoade Gboyega — Executive Director, Corporate Services

(3) Umar Abdullahi Umar — Executive Director, Technical Services

(4) Doris Uboh — Executive Director, Rural Electrification Fund (REF)

(5) Olufemi Akinyelure — Head of Project Management Unit, Nigeria Electrification Project

President Bola Tinubu expects all appointees in his administration to uphold the highest standards of transparency and accountability in the discharge of their duties and reiterates his determination to elevate the yearnings of Nigerians for good governance and qualitative service delivery above the narrow interests of individuals who are entrusted to provide critical services to the Nigerian people.

The House of Representatives, on Thursday, charged the Federal Inland Revenue Service, FIRS, to recover all taxes totalling over N5.19 trillion owed to the Federal Government by ministries, departments and agencies.

The development comes after the adoption of a motion by the member representing Oredo Federal Constituency of Edo State, Esosa Iyawe.

He said, “Audit reports from 2015 to 2019 revealed government agencies owing hundreds of billions in FIRS taxes, comprising underpayments and under-recoveries and over 5,000 companies and MDAs of the Federal Government owing N5.2 trillion in withholding taxes.”

Iyawe further argued that under-remittance and non-remittance of tax deprived the country of much-needed revenue.

He said, “The effect could be crippling on the country’s already dwindling economy.”

He contended that small-scale businesses in Nigeria were frustrated by multiple taxations by the FIRS “while states and local government authorities, multinational companies and other corporate organisations are getting the kid-glove treatment.

“To ensure that all debts in taxes owed to the federal government are duly recovered and reported back within four weeks for further legislative action.”

The N28.7 trillion 2024 Budget signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has a deficit of N9.18 trillion.

Meanwhile, FIRS generated N12. 37 trillion as tax revenue in 2023.

The Police in Rivers State said it has arrested a man identified as Michael Chidozie, for allegedly beating his wife and strangling her in their residence in Mile 4, near Port Harcourt, the state capital.

Though it was not clear how the incident happened, it was learned that the victim and mother of three, Mrs Ufuoma Eriera Chidozie, who hails from Delta State allegedly died after sustaining injuries after he was assaulted in the early hours of Tuesday, March 5, 2024.

The children of the couple are aged 10, seven and five respectively, all males.

A source in the area who pleaded anonymity said the deceased husband put a call across to his late wife’s brother to come that there was an emergency at home but fled before his in-law arrived.

“When the late woman’s brother arrived, the house was open and quiet. He then went in only to find the lifeless body of his sister. He shouted and called out the name of the woman’s husband.

“But he was nowhere to be found and there was no trace of him. Since then they have been looking for him and even reported the matter to the police,” the source explained.

He further revealed that before now the couple had been having issues, adding that the man had been complaining to some of his close friends.

It was gathered that the suspect was however arrested Wednesday morning by the Agip Police Division, Mile 4, Port Harcourt.

The spokesperson of the State Police Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the incident, saying the suspect was in detention and that an investigation is ongoing.

Iringe-Koko, a Superintendent of Police, disclosed that following his arrest, the suspect was transferred to the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department in Port Harcourt for discreet investigation.

She said, “The suspect has been arrested. He has been transferred to the SCIID for discreet and proper investigation.”

Our correspondent learnt that the woman’s corpse had been deposited in the mortuary, as the police and the family had agreed on an autopsy as part of the investigation before she would be buried.