There are growing concerns that the long-running feud between Dangote Industries Limited and BUA Group - two of the nation’s biggest conglomerates – has degenerated into enmity between their founders, Aliko Dangote and Abdulsamad Rabiu. The fact that both men are from Kano, and of the same generation (Dangote is 66 and Rabiu, 63) has further fueled apprehensions that there is more to this than business competition. DIL and BUA have been engaging in press wars for over three decades now. DIL accuses BUA of envy, while BUA alleges that DIL is involved in wrong doing, unethical practices and underhand dealings. Both parties have recently removed their gloves and thrown away caution as they have been publishing lurid allegations against each other. DIL blames BUA for instigating allegations of fraudulent foreign exchange transactions against the Dangote, while BUA responded by publishing a long list of allegations and grievances against DIL, stating that Dangote had always wanted to frustrate it out of business. Its allegations against DIL are many, ranging from issuance of dud cheques to attempting to close down its cement factory in Edo.

But what exactly is behind this media war? People in the Dangote Group I have spoken to claim that Mr. Rabiu has been instigating noxious publications against DIL because he is overwhelmed with personal envy against Aliko Dangote. ‘’There is nothing other than envy. They can’t stand our success. We control about 70% of the cement market, and they don’t want to live with that. It is sheer envy’’, said a senior executive. I have also spoken to some persons in the BUA Group who maintain that BUA is only driven by the need for probity and transparency. They believe that DIL has only thrived by being spoon-fed the federal government and ‘’taking advantage of political connections and closeness to the corridors of power’’, as one of them put it. ‘’We have nothing against Aliko, but we believe that he should play by the rules so that the competition would be fair. We are not afraid of fair competitions, but we just want a level-playing field for everybody’’.

Meanwhile, the two companies are unrelenting in dishing out accusations against one another. Journalists are daily inundated with all sorts of publications. Just the other day, a director at DIL forwarded a publication with a screaming headline ‘’FG gives BUA Deadline to submit Tax Documents Days After Reducing Cement Price’’ to me. In a wargame, any piece of negative news on one party will excite the other.

DIL has been greatly hurt by allegations of allegations of foreign exchange roundtripping levelled against it. Mr Dangote has worked hard all his life to build an enviable reputation and a track record of astuteness in business. He guards it jealously. To counter the smear, DIL announced over the weekend that it has been a good corporate citizen, stating that it has even repatriated N575. 009 million from its operations in other African countries into Nigeria, in addition to a N111.968 million cash swap deal with between Dangote Cement PlC and Ethiopian Airlines. But the statement did not state exactly when these repatriations and swaps were made. ‘’We believe in Nigeria, and we believe in Africa. We are genuine and authentic about our investments, and we call on all relevant agencies to investigate our FX transactions in the past ten years and make public any infraction discovered or noticed’’, a statement from the company said. This should be music in the ears of our monetary authorities.

Although business competitions are good because they engender innovations, enhance product or service quality and drive; Hollyup efficiency, which could eventually lead to price reductions, they could be destructive if they degenerate into conflicts. In our country, fierce competition among businesses and healthy rivalries among competitive brands are not new. I can easily recall the fights between Nigerian Breweries and Guinness and the tussle between Cadbury and Nestle (Bournvita and Milo). We’ve also seen stiff competitions in banking, media and advertising and aviation. But I can’t easily recall that these competitions had ever devolved into quarrels and vicious personal acrimonies. This is why the feud between Dangote and Rabiu is so worrisome. Sociologists believe that a shift in social context can turn dispassionate competitors into warring enemies. This is common in the sporting world of boxing (Michael Tyson and Evander Holyfield); entertainment (the assassination of Tupac Shakur) and among Formular 1 drivers. Experts have also theorized that emotions which are related to past encounters can also lead to conflicts between competing parties to the extent of devolving into unproductive behaviours like exchanging insults and unethical conducts like sabotaging the business or work of the other person. Both Aliko Dangote Abdul Samad Rabiu are of distinguished parentage whose fathers were wealthy Kano businessmen. Could there be there anything in their ancestry that is fueling these conflicts?

No matter the causes of the quarrel between DIL and BUA, there is no doubt that it has run long enough and Nigerians will like it stop. If this were a soap opera, it would have long been rested. Nobody has benefitted from this bitter fight and so, there is a strong need for BUA and DIL to sheathe their swords for the benefit of their personal integrity and the Nigerian economy. I am proud of the two of them for their huge investments in our economy. They, and indeed, all other Nigerians who have worked hard to invest in the economy, create good products and services, generate thousands of jobs, are our true icons. Instead of throwing insults at each other, DIL and BUA should rather engage in price wars that would benefit the Nigerian consumer. Two weeks ago, BUA announced plans to cut cement price to N3, 500 per bag. That’s quite commendable. DIL should follow suit.

Good enough, the two gentlemen have common friends in business, banking and government who could help to bring them into amicability. I suggest that President Tinubu who knows both men very well to invite them for dinner one Sunday evening and have a word with them. In addition, important personalities like Kano State governor; Emir of Kano and the Sultan should wade in and bring peace to these eminent Nigerians. I understand that the former Kano governor had two years ago made efforts to settle the rift. But they were not successful. The current governor should take it up also. This bad blood cannot go on forever. We have nothing to gain from it.

The Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke has congratulated a former Presidential Spokesperson, Dr. Reuben Abati, on the auspicious occasion of his 58th birthday, celebrating his remarkable impact in the field of journalism.

Governor notes his admiration for Dr. Abati's style of journalism, which is anchored on truth and genuinely informing the public, eulogizing the Arise TV lead presenter as a fearless voice in the charge for a better society.

The Governor acknowledges Dr. Abati's frank and objective analysis of topical issues, pointing out that his indepth contributions has shone light on important issues, canvases actions, and provided a feasible direction.

"I join friends, family and well-wisher in celebrating one of the greatest minds in the field of journalism, Dr. Reuben Abati, as he turns 58 years today. Dr. Abati has not only made an indelible mark on the field of journalism but has also through remarkable career, carved a niche for himself and serve as a source of inspiration for countless individuals," the Governor was quoted as saying in the congratulatory message.

"As Presidential Spokesperson, Dr. Abati showed class, admirably spotlighting his principal and the country in acceptable manner. And as a presenter on Arise TV, he continues to make meaningful contributions that not just deepened our democracy, but also have profound impact on our society."

Governor Adeleke wishes him a momentous celebration while praying to Almighty God to bless him with good health and sound mind to continue to contribute to the country, particularly, the journalism field.

Signed:
Mallam Olawale Rasheed,
Spokesperson to the Osun State Governor

Osun governor Ademola Adeleke has hailed Arise Television lead anchor and former presidential spokesperson, Dr. Reuben Abati, for his style of journalism, which, according to him, is anchored on truth and genuinely informing the public

Adeleke said this while eulogizing Abati ‘as a fearless voice in search of a better society’ in a 58th birthday to the former presidential spokesperson on Tuesday.

The Governor hailed the newspaper columnist for his remarkable impact in the field of journalism in the birthday message issued on his behalf by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed.

According to the statement, Adeleke acknowledges Abati’s “frank and objective analysis of topical issues, pointing out that his in-depth contributions have shone a light on important issues, canvased actions, and provided a feasible direction.

“I join friends, family, and well-wishers in celebrating one of the greatest minds in the field of journalism, Dr. Reuben Abati, as he turns 58 years old today. Dr. Abati has not only made an indelible mark on the field of journalism but has also through a remarkable career, carved a niche for himself and served as a source of inspiration for countless individuals,” the Governor was quoted as saying in the congratulatory message.

“As Presidential Spokesperson, Dr. Abati showed class, admirably spotlighting his principal and the country in an acceptable manner. And as a presenter on Arise TV, he continues to make meaningful contributions that not just deepened our democracy, but also have a profound impact on our society.”

“Governor Adeleke wishes him a momentous celebration while praying to Almighty God to bless him with good health and a sound mind to continue to contribute to the country, particularly, in the journalism field.”

[PM News]

The approved 65-year retirement age and 40 years of service for teachers is paying off as senior civil servants, especially education officers, who have attained the age of retirement are now hiding under the cloak of the new law to grab teaching jobs across the country.

LEADERSHIP checks revealed that some directors and other senior staff due for retirement in the Federal Ministry of Education and some of its agencies have been working out their redeployment to secondary schools in order to benefit from the new teachers’ retirement age.

It was also gathered that some of the senior civil servants, after attaining 60 years of retirement recently, worked their way out to some federal government colleges as teachers.

Our investigation further revealed that one of the senior staff (servants (names withheld) has also been deployed to a federal government college located in Abuja.

According to sources, the manipulation came from the zeal to benefit from the 65 years retirement age approved under former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.

It would be recalled that former President Muhammadu Buhari had during the 2020 World Teachers Day promised that teachers in Nigeria would enjoy a new retirement age.

After the federal executive council (FEC) approved the bill in January 2021, Buhari transmitted the bill to the National Assembly in June of that year.

The bill, which has now become law, increased the retirement age of teachers from 60 to 65 years.

The legislation also extended the duration of service for teachers in the country from 35 to 40 years.

Section 1 of the Act clearly stipulates that teachers in Nigeria shall compulsorily retire on the attainment of 65 years of age or 40 years of pensionable service, whichever is earlier.

Section 3 of the Act provides that the Public Service Rule or any Legislation that requires a person to retire from the Public Service at 60 years of age or after 35 years of Service shall not apply to teachers in Nigeria.

The new retirement age for teachers is a law which mandates that once one is engaged as a teacher under the government, whether federal, state or local, his/her retirement age is 65 unless otherwise he/she decides to retire earlier than that.

It was also gathered that their retirement was necessitated by the fact that they had attained the mandatory age of retirement and also the required active years in service.

The mandatory retirement age for all grades in the service is 60 years or 35 years of pensionable service, whichever is earlier.

But credible sources in the federal ministry of Education and National Senior Secondary Education Commission confirmed that some senior staff have already worked out their redeployment.

When contacted, spokesperson for the Education Ministry, Ben Bem Goong, did not respond to calls or messages by our reporter.

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of three new Executive Commissioners to serve in the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), and the redeployment of one current Executive Commissioner, pending their confirmation by the Nigerian Senate.

According to a statement by Presidential spokesman, Ajuri Ngelale, they are; Bashir Indabawa, representing North West is the Executive Commissioner, Exploration and acreage Management. Dr. Kelechi Ofoegbu, representing South East is the Executive Commissioner, Corporate Services & Administration (Redeployed) while Enorense Amadasu, representing South-south is the Executive Commissioner, Development & Production. Babajide Fasina, representing South-west is the Executive Commissioner, Economic Regulation & Strategic Planning.

Ngelale said the President approved this reshuffling and replacement based on his deeply informed assessment of all factors concerning the sector with a view to establishing a regulatory framework and culture that comprehensively disincentivizes errant behaviour and incentivizes diligence and rules-based business practice across the industry.

An All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Mr Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, said President Bola Tinubu is capable of fixing the economy for the benefit of all Nigerians.

Oyintiloye, a member of the defunct APC Presidential Campaign Council (PCC), said this while speaking with newsmen in Osogbo.

He said all the president needs from Nigerians in fixing the economy is a little patience, perseverance, endurance and support from all the citizens.

The APC chieftain urged Nigerians, both home and abroad, to have faith in the ability of the president to provide practical steps in solving the challenges confronting the country.

Oyintiloye, who noted that Tinubu had the interest of Nigerians at heart, said the president knew the challenges confronting the country before he decided to be the president and was adequately prepared for it.

He said while the various economic policies by the president put the country’s economy on the right path even though they seem painful.

He said at the end, the outcome of the policies will put smiles on the faces of the people.

Oyintiloye, a former lawmaker said the hardship Nigerians were presently facing would soon be a thing of the past.

“It is true that the economy is not in good shape and Nigerians are going through a lot, finding it difficult to live a decent life.

“I believe the President knew this before he offered himself to govern the country and he is well prepared to tackle all these challenges.

“All we need to do is to continue to pray for the president, support him and be patient. There is no doubt that he is capable of fixing the economy.

“President Tinubu is a man with a private sector background. He worked in the banking and oil sector and believes he will use his wealth of experience to fix things.

“The removal of fuel subsidy and the monetary policy of the president will soon put the country on the right part.

“There will be improved electricity, job opportunities, improved security, infrastructure development, housing provision and food security,” he said.

Oyintiloye, who was also the Osun Chairman of the defunct Directorate of Civic Engagement (PCC), while congratulating the President on his victory at the supreme court, said that Tinubu will now have enough time to contrate on governance.

He commended the Judiciary for the landmark judgement, adding that the Judiciary has once again proved itself as the last hope for the common man.

He also commended the president for appointing the best hands in his team to move the nation forward.

Oyintiloye also said that the president should be commended on the mission of Renewed Hope Agenda” for Nigerians.

He said the president genuinely expressed is committed to the renewed hope, when he expressly asked all his cabinet member during a retreat last week to signed a performance bond.

“This show that this government is taking the bull by the horn and putting individual on their toes which will enhance effective performance and delivering of good governance.

“This will further reaffirm confidence of our people in the present democratic process”, he said.

The presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has urged Imo residents to shun sleep, defend their votes, and make sure they vote for Senator Athan Achonu, the party’s governorship candidate in the November 11 governorship poll in Imo State.

Obi spoke at the Kanu Nwankwo Sports Complex in Owerri while addressing supporters of the party candidate, Senator Achonu.

Obi, who was at the venue alongside the Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, and Imo LP governorship candidate, Achonu, bemoaned the current hardship, inflation and insecurity in the country, saying Nigerians and Imo residents deserve better governance.

Obi restated that Labour party has the capacity to reposition the state for the better. He urged the citizenry to support the Labour Party, Senator Athan Achonu in the upcoming election.

The former governor of Anambra State said the President Bola Tinubu administration had done very little to ameliorate the sufferings of the Nigerian masses, urging the people of the state to show the APC administration the way out on Saturday by voting the LP candidate and protecting their votes.

Speaking, Otti said Imo residents should not only cast their votes for Senator Achonu but should also protect them.

Otti also enlightened the people on the need to defend their votes at the polling units.

“You are expected to stay awake, cast and protect your votes in the upcoming election,” he stated.

Speaking, Achonu stated that, if elected governor, he would address insecurity, create jobs for the unemployed young people, and promote local government autonomy.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has warned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other stakeholders against manipulating Saturday’s governorship election in Kogi, Bayelsa and Imo States.

The national publicity secretary of PDP, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, said the party will not stand by and watch the elections manipulated.

Ologunagba further warned that it will not accept results that are not consistent with the will of the people.

He decried that less than four days to the election, the INEC chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu has not redeployed Prof. Sylvia Agu, the state Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), despite the widespread outcry.

The party had charged the INEC chairman to emulate the Inspector General of Police (IGP), who redeployed the Imo state Commissioner of Police after public outcry.

The party said: “Information available to us indicates that INEC had held several meetings on the Imo election and that preponderance of opinion in INEC was that it was imperative that Prof. Sylvia Agu should be redeployed in order to maintain the integrity and neutrality of INEC.

“The INEC Chairman should not succumb to the alleged pressure from the APC, especially from an APC national officer said to be related to Prof. Sylvia Agu.

“It is in the interest of Prof. Agu to recuse herself from participating, supervising or superintending the Saturday, November 11, election in Imo State

“The PDP is aware of Prof. Agu’s mission which is to compromise and manipulate the election in favour of the APC, having regards to her antecedent in previous elections.

“The PDP wants to state that our party and candidate are winning the Imo election and we and the people of Imo State will never fold our hands and watch the election manipulated by anybody whatsoever.

“The PDP believe that the INEC Chairman knows the implication of any attempt to compromise election in a State like Imo. He should heed the voice of reason and redeploy Prof Agu immediately.”

“We are set to win overwhelmingly in Imo State because of the acceptability of our candidate and party among the people. He is accessible, grassroot politician, humane, understands and connects to the suffering of the people.”

Speaking on Kogi, the party said that Governor Yahaya Bello is also overwhelmed with fear and has technically accepted defeat.

PDP said: “Governor Yayaha Bello is already overwhelmed and he has technically accepted defeat, especially with the triumph of Senator Hadiza Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, in the Kogi Central Senatoral District which is an affirmation of the popularity and acceptability of our Party in the State.

“The APC has lost its voice, that is why they are no longer campaigning in Kogi State.

“The APC is now jittery and in mortal fear of the PDP. Only this morning, the APC-led Kogi State Government denied our Party the use of the Confluence Stadium, Lokoja for our Campaign grand-finale scheduled for Thursday.

“This panic mode of the APC cannot stop our Party and the people of Kogi State. We will hold our Rally and go ahead to win the Governorship election in Kogi State on Saturday.”

On Bayelsa, the PDP said that the candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC), Timipre Sylva, has no fighting chance in the face of the more popular candidate of the PDP, Governor Douye Diri.

The party said: “The APC Candidate, Timipre Sylva has no fighting chance in the face of the more popular candidate of the PDP. He has no message; the APC is practically dead in Bayelsa and cannot win in any Local Government of the State.”

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and the Committee of Vice Chancellors of Nigerian Universities have strongly criticised the FG’s 40% IGR deduction plan, labelling it detrimental to the university system.

In a letter dated October 17, 2023, titled ‘Implementation of 40% automatic deduction from internally generated revenue of partially-funded Federal Government institutions,’ the FG informed that the deduction would commence from November 2023.

This decision aligns with a Finance Circular dated December 20, 2021, referencing FMFBNP/OTHERS/IGR/CRF/12/2021.

However, ASUU’s National President, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, expressed disappointment, arguing that universities do not generate revenue from user charges and service fees collected from students.

He found it perplexing that the government sought to deduct funds from subsidised charges, such as ID cards, hostel accommodation, lab coats, and more.

He said, “This is what we saw when we were fighting that the government should fund universities, and Nigerians think ASUU is the problem.

“Universities are not revenue-generating agencies, so the 40 per cent of the subsidised money students pay for a hostel, medicals, ID cards, lab coat, chemicals in the laboratory should still be shared with the government?

“This is an extreme that such is happening in Nigeria. Will the Presidency ask the NASS, NNPC, to give a return of 40 per cent?”

Osodeke called on parents, students and Nigerians to rise against what he described as an attack against the universities, adding that ASUU would also meet with the Federal Government agencies in charge of the policy to take the next line of action.

He said, “Parents, students, Nigerians need to rise up to this. This is an attack on universities. Universities are already paying taxes. They pay withholding taxes, and it goes to the government. There is nothing like IGR in universities. What we have are charges.

“We need to know the 40 per cent of what they want to collect from universities. They are even saying lecturers should pay them accommodation fees, too.

“They want 100 per cent of what they pay as accommodation. It is sad. Give us some time to interact with the government.”

On his part, the Secretary-General Committee of Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities, Prof. Yakubu Ochefu, revealed that the amount deducted by the FG from universities was 25 per cent but was increased to 40 per cent recently.

He called on the AGF to specify what it meant by IGR, saying universities only get user charges from students and not profits or revenues.

He added that universities were being run in deficit already, arguing that a deduction of 40 per cent would completely run the universities down.

Ochefu said, “The Federal Government, through the Accountant General of the Federation, is citing the Finance Act of 2021 as the basis for the decision.

“We also have to look at the provision of the law. It says that it is when you have a surplus in terms of your Internally Generated Revenue that is when you can make a return to the government. But many universities don’t have IGR, because most universities charge students’ fees as user charges.

“Paying N2,000 for an ID card, which the university has already subsidised; they pay health insurance, sports, ICT, and accommodation. These are all the charges that come together, and universities must provide all these for their students.

“If a user charge is considered as IGR, then we have a problem with the nomenclature. The accountant general should specify what he was referring to as IGR.

“If it is all these subsidised charges that the government wants to collect 40 per cent, then the universities will lead towards financial catastrophe.

“We will open our books to the world to let them know that this is how much we get in terms of user charges. Universities are being run in deficit, and FG still wants to collect 40 per cent; that means you want the universities to run down.”

Meanwhile, he insisted that if the Federal Government wished to collect 40 per cent of what universities generate, they should fund the universities fully.

“If this happens, the financial challenges of the universities will get worse because the university is not a profit-making institution; it is not a revenue-generating entity. It is a service-providing entity.”

He also said the committee of VCs would consult with the Ministry of Education, accountant general and others.

Corruption has long been a pervasive issue in Nigeria, particularly within some government Ministries, Agencies and Departments, which may not be necessary to name and shame at this time. But are well known by both Nigerians and Foreigners who transact businesses with them, for their history of corruption and inefficiency. The detrimental effects of corruption on any nation's development and the well-being of its citizens cannot be overstated. However, with the rapid advancements in technology, particularly in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI), there is a glimmer of hope for combating inefficiency and corruption, if only those placed in positions would embrace its deployment.

The main thrust of this article is to explore how the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN), can deploy AI in some key government agencies to check corruption by officials, focusing on critical areas that have been plagued by corruption and human-interactive inefficiencies.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to revolutionize and assist the Tinubu’s administration in the fight against low productivity and corruption in Nigeria's government Ministries, Departments and Agencies. It may not be able to wipe it out entirely, but can drastically reduce it.
By leveraging AI technologies such as machine learning, natural language processing, and data analytics, the FGN can implement mechanisms to detect and prevent corrupt practices. There are specific ways in which AI can be deployed in agencies prone to corruption, particularly those that have a long history of corruption. And here are some examples how AI could intervene

Enhancing Transparency and Accountability:
AI can play a crucial role in promoting transparency and accountability within government agencies. By implementing AI-powered systems, such as automated auditing and monitoring tools, the federal government can detect irregularities and suspicious activities in real-time. For instance, AI algorithms can analyze financial transactions, identify patterns of corruption, and flag potential cases for investigation. This would significantly reduce the ability of corrupt officials to engage in fraudulent practices. In order for the president and his key personnel to be abreast of the input of AI and take appropriate actions, some of the key staff in the presidency, such as Ms. Hadiza Bala Usman, who is charged with monitoring the Federal Minister’s Key Performance Index (KPI), should have access to monitoring recording devices that flag the reports of AI, where major infringements and malfeasance are reported.

Streamlining Processes and Reducing Human Interaction:
One of the root causes of inefficiency and corruption is the excessive human interaction in bureaucratic processes. AI can help streamline these processes, minimizing the opportunities for corruption. For example, AI-powered chatbots can handle routine inquiries and applications, reducing the need for citizens to interact with corrupt officials. Additionally, AI can automate decision-making processes, eliminating the potential for biased or corrupt official judgments.

Data Analytics for Predictive Policing and Risk Assessment:
The Nigerian Police Force has long been plagued by accusations of corruption, and sometimes high handed ness, leading to a breakdown in law and order, as in the case of the October 2020 EndSars protests. AI can be instrumental in transforming the police system by leveraging data analytics for predictive policing and risk assessment. By analyzing historical crime data, AI algorithms can identify black spots high-risk areas and predict potential criminal activities. This proactive approach would not only deter corruption but also enhance the overall effectiveness of law enforcement.

Enhancing Border Security and Customs Control:
Corruption at border checkpoints and customs offices has been a significant challenge for Nigeria. AI can be deployed to strengthen border security and customs control by automating processes such as cargo inspection and document verification. AI-powered systems can quickly identify discrepancies, flag suspicious shipments, and reduce the reliance on human intervention, thereby minimizing opportunities for corruption.

The deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in various government agencies holds immense potential for combating corruption. By leveraging AI technologies, the federal government can enhance transparency, streamline processes, and implement data-driven decision-making. The Nigerian Police, Armed Forces, Customs, Immigration, NNPCL/ Oil & Gas, and Border Patrol are some critical areas that can benefit from AI-powered solutions. However, it is crucial to ensure that the implementation of AI is accompanied by robust governance, regulatory framework, ethical considerations, and proper training for officials. With a comprehensive approach, AI can help check inefficiency and corruption to the barest minimum, leading to a more transparent, accountable, and efficiency in the MDAs.

Now, given my personal experience and training as a banker and a player in the electricity power sector, it is incumbent upon me to analyze, review and recommend how AI can be deployed in the two sectors to enhance efficiency and curb corruption.
The banking and financial sector, as well as the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI), have long been plagued by various forms of malfeasance, including insider lending, foreign currency round tripping, financial fraud, market manipulation, electricity theft, and infrastructure vandalization. These issues not only undermine the integrity of these sectors but also hinder economic growth and development. However, with the advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI), there is an opportunity to address these challenges effectively. It is therefore crucial to explore how AI can improve payment systems, reduce financial malfeasance in the banking sector, and enhance the operations of the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry's and the Market Participants (Gas Suppliers, GenCos, TCN, NBET, DisCos) monitoring capabilities.

Ways that AI can be used in improving Payment Systems and Reducing Financial Malfeasance in the Banking Sector, are as follows:

Fraud Detection and Prevention:
AI can play a crucial role in detecting and preventing financial fraud in the banking sector. By analyzing vast amounts of transactional data, AI algorithms can identify patterns and anomalies indicative of fraudulent activities. For instance, AI-powered systems can detect unusual spending patterns, unauthorized access to accounts, or suspicious transactions, enabling banks to take immediate action and prevent financial malfeasance.

Insider Lending and Risk Assessment:
Insider lending, where bank officials grant loans to themselves or their associates without proper scrutiny, is a significant concern in the banking sector. AI can help mitigate this issue by automating the loan approval process and implementing robust risk assessment models. By analyzing various data points, including credit history, financial statements, and market trends, AI algorithms can provide unbiased loan recommendations, reducing the potential for insider lending and improving overall lending practices.

Market Manipulation Detection:
AI can also be deployed to detect and prevent market manipulation in stock and commodities markets. By analyzing market data, news articles, social media sentiment, and other relevant information, AI algorithms can identify suspicious trading activities and patterns. This can help regulatory bodies and financial institutions take timely action to prevent market manipulation, ensuring fair and transparent trading practices.

Deployment of AI in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry:

Monitoring the National Grid:
AI can significantly enhance the monitoring capabilities of the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry, particularly in monitoring the National Grid. By analyzing real-time data from sensors and smart meters, AI algorithms can detect anomalies, predict potential failures, and enable proactive maintenance. This would help prevent grid failures, reduce downtime, and improve the overall, efficiency, reliability and stability of the electricity supply.

Electricity Theft Detection:
Electricity theft is a pervasive issue in Nigeria, leading to significant revenue losses for electricity providers. AI can be instrumental in detecting and preventing electricity theft by analyzing consumption patterns, identifying abnormal usage, and flagging potential cases for investigation. This would not only reduce revenue losses but also ensure fair distribution of electricity resources.

Reducing Aggregate Technical Commercial and Collection Losses:
AI can also help reduce Aggregate Technical Commercial and Collection (ATC&C) losses in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry. By analyzing consumption data, billing information, and customer behavior, AI algorithms can identify areas of high losses and recommend targeted interventions. This would enable electricity providers to improve revenue collection, reduce inefficiencies, and enhance overall financial performance.

Infrastructure Vandalization Prevention:
Vandalization of electricity power infrastructure is a significant challenge in Nigeria. AI can be deployed to monitor critical infrastructure, such as transmission lines and substations, using surveillance cameras and sensors. AI algorithms can analyze the data in real-time, detect suspicious activities, and alert relevant authorities. This proactive approach would deter vandalism and protect the integrity of the electricity power infrastructure.

On the controversial Estimated Billing System and electricity theft in Nigeria, which has caused a lot of disharmony between the DisCos and consumers of electricity, AI can be deployed to check for tampering with electricity meters and bypassing of meters to steal power by using smart metering systems and advanced analytics. Here are a few ways AI can be utilized in this context:

Data analysis: AI algorithms can analyze the data collected from smart meters to identify patterns and anomalies that indicate tampering or bypassing of electricity meters. Unusual consumption patterns or sudden drops in energy usage can be flagged for further investigation.

Machine learning models: AI can be trained using historical data to develop machine learning models that can detect abnormal energy consumption patterns. These models can continuously learn and adapt to new techniques used by consumers to bypass meters.

Image recognition: AI-powered image recognition systems can be used to analyze images or video footage from surveillance cameras installed near electricity meters. These systems can identify physical tampering or unauthorized modifications to the meters.

Real-time monitoring: AI can enable real-time monitoring of electricity consumption, allowing utility companies to detect any sudden changes or irregularities immediately. This can help identify potential tampering or bypassing attempts promptly.

Predictive analytics: AI algorithms can analyze consumption patterns and other relevant data to predict potential instances of tampering or bypassing. This proactive approach can help utility companies take preventive measures and minimize revenue losses.

It's important to note that the deployment of AI for such purposes should comply with privacy regulations and ensure transparency to gain public confidence.

Another area of grave concern to most Nigerians and foreigners alike, is the difficulty and delays in obtaining Nigerian passport and visas by business travelers and tourists in and out of the country. But the cheering news is that the Minister of Interior, Bunmi Tunde-Ojo, recently reeled out his Ministry’s blue-print on the improvement in the fast processing of passports for eligible citizens. The processing and issuance of Nigerian passports and visas had long been plagued by inefficiencies, delays, and corruption. However, the Minister’s recent initiatives appear to be assuring. These previous challenges not only inconvenience applicants but also hinder economic growth, foreign direct investments and international relations. However, with the advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI), there is an opportunity to revolutionize the facilitation of passport and visa processing. It is important again to explore how AI can be deployed in immigration offices in Nigeria and our foreign embassies and High Commissions to streamline the process, enhance security, and improve the overall experience for applicants.

Streamlining the Processing and Issuance of Passports and Visas:

Automated Application Processing:
AI can automate the application processing for passports and visas, reducing the reliance on manual labor and minimizing errors. By implementing AI-powered systems, immigration offices and foreign embassies can streamline the application process, enabling applicants to submit their documents online. AI algorithms can then analyze the applications, verify the authenticity of the documents, and flag any discrepancies for further review. This would significantly reduce processing times and improve efficiency.

Facial Recognition Technology:
AI-powered facial recognition technology can be utilized to enhance the security and accuracy of passport and visa processing. By capturing and analyzing facial features, AI algorithms can verify the identity of applicants, reducing the risk of identity fraud. This technology can also be used to compare the applicant's photo with existing databases to identify potential security threats or individuals with multiple identities.

Natural Language Processing for Document Verification:
AI-powered natural language processing can be employed to verify the authenticity of supporting documents submitted with passport and visa applications. By analyzing the content and structure of documents, AI algorithms can detect forged or altered documents, ensuring the integrity of the application process. This would help prevent the issuance of passports and visas based on fraudulent information.

Intelligent Queue Management:
AI can be utilized to optimize the queuing system in immigration offices and foreign embassies. By analyzing historical data and real-time information, AI algorithms can predict peak hours and allocate resources accordingly. This would help reduce waiting times, improve customer satisfaction, and enhance the overall efficiency of the processing and issuance of passports and visas.

Enhanced Data Security:
AI can also play a crucial role in ensuring the security of applicant data throughout the passport and visa processing. By implementing robust data encryption and access control mechanisms, AI-powered systems can protect sensitive information from unauthorized access or data breaches. This would instill confidence in applicants that their personal information is secure and handled with utmost care.

The deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the facilitation of passport and visa processing holds immense potential for streamlining the process, enhancing security, and improving the overall experience for applicants. By automating application processing, implementing facial recognition technology, utilizing natural language processing for document verification, optimizing queue management, and ensuring data security, immigration offices in Nigeria, foreign embassies and High Commissions can significantly improve efficiency and reduce corruption, if the will to do so is there. However, it is crucial to ensure that the implementation of AI is accompanied by proper training for officials, robust governance frameworks, and adherence to data privacy regulations. With a comprehensive approach, AI can transform the passport and visa processing system, making it more transparent, efficient, and secure in Nigeria.

The use of AI in tackling insecurity in Nigeria:
Further to the persistent challenges over decades, posed by different militant and violent groups such as Boko Haram, ISWAP and the unknown gunmen, causing mayhem in different parts of Nigeria, AI could be deployed in curbing the violent and disruptive activities of these terrorists, in the following ways:

Data analysis and intelligence gathering: AI can analyze vast amounts of data from various sources, including social media, news reports, and intelligence databases, to identify patterns, connections, and potential threats. This can help in early detection of militant activities and provide valuable insights for counter-terrorism operations.

Predictive analytics: AI algorithms can analyze historical data and patterns to predict potential areas of conflict and attacks in the major flash points of these terrorist groups, particularly in the North East, North Central, North West and the South East parts of Nigeria. This can assist security forces in deploying resources and personnel strategically to prevent or respond to attacks more effectively.

Image and video analysis: AI-powered image and video analysis can be used to monitor surveillance footage, identify individuals, and detect suspicious activities. This can aid in tracking and apprehending militants, as well as identifying their networks and support systems.

Natural language processing: AI can be used to analyze and understand vast amounts of text data, including social media posts, online forums, and communication intercepts. This can help in identifying extremist propaganda, recruitment efforts, and communication channels used by militant groups.

Border security and surveillance: AI can enhance border security by using technologies such as facial recognition, license plate recognition, and anomaly detection to identify potential threats and monitor movement across borders. This can help in preventing the infiltration of militants and illegal activities.

Cybersecurity: AI can be used to detect and prevent cyber threats and attacks, which are often used by militant groups to disrupt critical infrastructure and communication networks.

It is important to note that while AI can be a valuable tool in combating militant and violent groups, it should be used in conjunction with other strategies, such as community engagement, intelligence sharing, and socio-economic development, to address the root causes of extremism and promote long-term stability.

In conclusion, to attempt cataloging all the areas of our national life and operations that AI could potentially enhance efficiency and productivity will be a daunting task. However, with the foregoing examples as pilot cases, the model of deployment of AI in business, health, climate change, agriculture, military, education and all spheres of human development could be replicated in many other sectors.