FEATURES
Popular singer, Daniel Anidugbe, also known as Kizz Daniel, has announced that he would be going on sabbatical after his next EP.
The singer said he would not release any song till 2026, after his upcoming EP, ‘Uncle K’, drops on November 29, 2024.
“After this I no dey drop anything again until 2026,” he wrote on his X handle on Friday.
Following the announcement, fans have been pleading with him not to embark on sabbatical, saying they would miss his music.
Kizz Daniel has established himself as the one of the most consistent artistes in Nigeria since his debut in 2016 with the hit song, ‘Woju’.
He has released five studio albums and dozens of hit songs since gaining prominence.
[Leadership]
Says Nigeria under ‘state capture’
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has said Nigeria is speedily becoming a bad case under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, who he referred to as Emilokan and “Baba-go-slow”.
He said chaos, insecurity, conflict, discord, division, disunity, depression, youth restiveness, confusion, violence, and underdevelopment have become permanent occurrences in this dispensation.
The former President, who said this while delivering his keynote address at the Chinua Achebe Leadership Forum, Yale University New Haven Connecticut, USA, said Nigeria currently suffers from state capture.
Obasanjo spoke on the theme: Leadership Failure and State Capture in Nigeria.
His words: ”As we can see and understand, Nigeria’s situation is bad. The more the immorality and corruption of a nation, the more the nation sinks into chaos, insecurity, conflict, discord, division, disunity, depression, youth restiveness, confusion, violence, and underdevelopment. That’s the situation mostly in Nigeria in the reign of Baba-go-slow and Emilokan. The failing state status of Nigeria is confirmed and glaringly indicated and manifested for every honest person to see through the consequences of the level of our pervasive corruption, mediocrity, immorality, misconduct, mismanagement, perversion, injustice, incompetence and all other forms of iniquity. But yes, there is hope.’’
CORRUPTION
The former president further described state capture as, “ one of the most pervasive forms of corruption, a situation where powerful individuals, institutions, companies, or groups within or outside a country use corruption to shape a nation’s policies, legal environment, and economy, to benefit their private interests”.
“State capture is not always overt and obvious. It can also arise from the more subtle close alignment of interests between specific business and political elites through family ties, friendships, and the intertwined ownership of economic assets”, he said.
“What is happening in Nigeria right before our eyes is state capture. The purchase of National assets by political elites – and their family members at bargain prices, the allocation of national resources – minerals, land, and even human resources – to local, regional, and international actors. It must be prohibited and prevented through local and international laws.
“Public institutions such as the legislature, the executive, the judiciary, and regulatory agencies both at the federal and local levels are subject to capture. As such, state capture can broadly be understood as the disproportionate and unregulated influence of interest groups or decision-making processes, where special interest groups manage to bend state laws, policies, and regulations”.
He, however, quoted Chinua Achebe’s ‘The Trouble with Nigeria,’ saying: “The trouble with Nigeria is simply and squarely a failure of leadership. There is nothing wrong with the Nigerian character. There is nothing wrong with Nigerian land, climate, water, air, or anything else. The Nigerian problem is the unwillingness or inability of its leaders to rise to the responsibility, to the challenge of personal example which are the hallmarks of true leadership.”
Obasanjo added: ”In hindsight, this forty-one-year-old prescriptive analysis on the root causes of Nigeria’s leadership crisis is quite moderate and appropriate. It is at least not as desolate as the diagnosis provided by Robert Rotberg and John Campbell, two prominent US intellectuals – the latter a former United States ambassador to Nigeria to boot: ‘Nigeria has long teetered on the precipice of failure,’ they argue. ‘Unable to keep its citizens safe and secure, Nigeria has become a failed state of critical geopolitical concern. Its failure matters because the peace and prosperity of Africa and preventing the spread of disorder and militancy around the globe depend on a stronger Nigeria.”
The Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reform Committee, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele yesterday shed further light on the Federal Government’s four tax reform bills now before the National Assembly ,and said it was partly to empower Nigerian youths to play a key role in the digital economy space.
Changes to the income tax laws ,he said on his X handle @taiwooyedele,were to facilitate remote work opportunities for Nigerians in Nigeria within the global business process outsourcing.
He listed the other objectives of the tax reforms as follows:
*Zero rated VAT and other incentives to promote exports in goods, services, and intellectual property.
*Tax exemptions for small businesses with annual turnover of N50 million or less including withholding tax, value added tax, and 0% corporate income tax rate.
*Exemption from PAYE (personal income tax) for minimum wage earners and reduced tax burden for over 90% of all workers in the private and public sectors.
*VAT at 0% for food, education, healthcare, and exemption for rent, public transportation, fuel products, and renewable energy. These items constitute an average of 82% of household consumption and nearly 100% for low income households to ameliorate the rising cost of living for the masses.
*Introduction of the Tax Ombudsman to advocate for an improved tax system and protect vulnerable taxpayers.
*Reduction of corporate income tax rate from 30% to 25% over the next 2 years and elimination of earmarked taxes on companies to be replaced with a harmonised single levy at a reduced rate.
*Elimination of minimum tax on loss-making companies and those with low profit margins.
*Grant of input VAT credit to businesses on assets and services to improve investment competitiveness and reduce the cost of goods and services.
*Redesign of the personal income tax brackets and rates, VAT and capital gains tax to be progressive while protecting the poor.
*Changes to permit the payment of taxes on foreign currency denominated transactions in naira to reduce the pressure on the exchange rate and simplify compliance for businesses.
*Proposal to repeal over 50 nuisance taxes and levies, and harmonise the remaining taxes to a single digit.
*Introduce an equitable basis for VAT revenue sharing to ensure that states without many headquarter companies are fairly treated and rewarded for their economic contributions.
*Rationalisation of tax incentives to reduce uncertainty and provide a level playing field for all investors.
*A new National Fiscal Policy to set the framework for fair taxation, responsible borrowing, and sustainable spending.
The National Economic Council (NEC) had recommended to President Bola Tinubu the withdrawal of the bills to enable wider consultation.
But the President said the bills would not be withdrawn.
He said the National Assembly should allow the generality of Nigerians make their inputs during public hearings of the bills.
[TheNation]
Popular Nigerian singer, Oluwajuwonlo Iledare, better known as Jaywon, has explained why he apologised to a fellow artiste Onyinkansola Aderigbigbe, popularly known as Ayra Starr, after being accused of mocking her for not receiving a Grammy nomination.
Speaking with Sunday Scoop, Jaywon clarified his intentions, saying, “I felt it was important to address the situation. My motivation behind the apology was to acknowledge any misunderstandings and to show support for her talent. The music industry can sometimes be competitive, but I believe in uplifting one another. You know how fans can be funny sometimes. Most importantly, in this industry, we should focus on collaboration and respect rather than rivalry. We all have our journeys, and it’s essential to celebrate each other’s successes.”
When asked what makes his Evergreen album resonate with fans, Jaywon said, “I believe the album’s appeal comes from its timeless themes of love, resilience, and personal growth. These are emotions and experiences that everyone can relate to at different points in their lives. The melodies and lyrics are also relatable, which makes it something fans can always come back to.”
Offering advice to young artistes on navigating success and fame, Jaywon remarked, “They should stay true to themselves and their vision. Success and fame can be overwhelming, but it’s important to remember why you started making music in the first place. It’s also crucial to embrace both the highs and lows, as they are all part of the journey. Surround yourself with a supportive team and take time to focus on your craft. Don’t get too caught up in the noise of the industry; instead, prioritise your mental health and well-being.”
[Punch]
Amid the rising wave of inflation gripping the country, no fewer than 15 Northern states spent an approximate sum of N45bn on different poverty alleviation programmes in the first six months of 2024, an investigation by Sunday PUNCH has revealed.
On Friday, the National Bureau of Statistics reported that Nigeria’s inflation rate surged to 33.88 per cent in October 2024, up from 32.70 per cent in September.
In January, the country’s inflation rate was 29.90 per cent, indicating that it had increased by 13 per cent within the first 10 months of the year.
The effect is felt in most of the northern states, a region that reportedly has the highest poverty rate in the country.
In April 2024, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, decried the high level of poverty in Northern Nigeria, especially the North West.
According to him, the region had the highest poverty rate in the country, with a national average of 40.1 per cent as of 2019.
Delivering a paper, titled “Navigating the Maze: Addressing Multi-Dimensional Insecurity Challenges in Northern Nigeria,” at the combined convocation lecture of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, Ribadu identified Sokoto as the worst-hit in the region.
The Multidimensional Poverty Index Survey launched by the NBS for the 35 states and the Federal Capital Territory in 2022 also confirmed the high rate of poverty in Northern Nigeria.
The survey indicated that 65 per cent (86 million people) of the 63 per cent (133 million people) poor individuals in Nigeria reside in the North.
It stated that 91 per cent of people in Sokoto State are poor while listing the proportion of multidimensionally poor for other northern states as Jigawa (83.3), Zamfara (82.70), Yobe (81.70), Bauchi (81.30), Kebbi (79.10), Katsina (77.50), Gombe (77.40), Kano (68.80), Taraba (65.10), Borno (64.0), Niger (61.60), and Adamawa (59.90).
An investigation by Sunday PUNCH showed that about 15 of the 19 states in the North spent the sum of N45,323,220,202 on several programmes to reduce poverty in the region between January and June 2024.
The states are Zamfara, Yobe, Plateau, Niger, Nasarawa, Kwara, Kogi, Kebbi, Katsina, Kaduna, Jigawa, Gombe, Borno, Bauchi, and Adamawa.
The figures were derived from an analysis of the budget implementation reports of the states, obtained from the Open Nigerian States, a BudgIT-backed website serving as a repository for government budget data.
The performance report is prepared quarterly and issued within four weeks of each quarter’s end.
During the same period, the states received over N325bn in grants and aid from various financial institutions across the globe.
But despite getting financial aid worth N5.3bn, there was no record that Kano State spent any amount on poverty alleviation programmes in the first half of the year, though about 68.8 per cent of the population of the state lived below the national poverty line.
Zamfara State, with an 82 per cent poor population, spent only N1.3m on poverty alleviation programmes, despite getting N52.8bn in grants alone during the period under review.
For Yobe State, another high poverty rate, N16bn was on poverty alleviation programmes, though it received N53bn in grants.
For other northern states, Plateau spent N3.6bn, Niger N280m, Nasarawa N94m, Kwara N583m, Kogi N14bn, Kebbi N54m, Katsina N16m, Kaduna N13m, Jigawa N6bn, Gombe spent N1.8bn, Borno N3.2bn, Bauchi N850m, and Adamawa N839m to tackle poverty in their states during the period under review.
*INEC postpones collation to 12 noon
*… uploads over 92% of results
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo state and the candidate of the All Progressive Congress is leading in all the 15 local governments so far declared by INEC.
How i spent 10 years in jail without trial for bank robbery i heard about in court - Adeshina
He won the two local government announced when collation began at 5 a.m. The are Akure North and Okitipupa.
Akure North
APC – 14451
PDP – 5787
Registered Voters – 87293
Accredited Voters – 21608
Total Valid Votes – 20942
Rejected Votes – 648
Total Votes Cast – 21590
Okitipupa
AAPC – 26,811
PDP – 10,233
Total Registered Voters – 126,021
Valid Votes – 37,597
Rejected Votes – 858
Accredited voters – 38,814
Total Votes cast – 38,455
Collation postponed
After the announcement of the two local government area, the collation was adjourned till 12 noon, today.
The remaining local government areas yet to be announced are Ese Odo, Ilaje and Odigbo
Earlier…
The collation officer, Prof Olayemi Akinwunmi, said that the collation of the remaining five council areas will resume by 5 am today (Sunday).
Prof Akinwunmi, who announced the recess, said it is to allow for the arrival of results from the remaining local governments.
According to him “We have five more local governments but we are going to take our recess now until 5 am to receive some receive from Akure North, Okitipupa and Odigbo, then Ilaje and Eseodo. We resume 5 am for these local governments,”
Meanwhile, suspected thugs reportedly fired gunshots sporadically at Ofosu in ldanre Local Government Area to scare voters.
Sources said the thugs stormed the village early, yesterday, before the commencement of the election, firing gunshots.
The incident, it was learnt, caused panic, forcing people to stay indoors to avoid being hit by stray bullets.
A community leader, who spoke to newsmen, said: “We don’t know who they were but they were firing gunshots into the air in some parts of the village since morning. Ofosu is an Ondo village close to Benin in Edo State. There is no casualty, but people in the village are staying indoors.”
APC sent thugs to Idanre —Akingbaso
Reacting to the incident, deputy governorship candidate of the PDP, Mr Festus Akingbaso, expressed concerns over the alleged infiltration of some villages in Idanre by hoodlums.
Akingbaso, who spoke shortly after casting his vote at Imikan Ward 02, Unit 008, Idanre, commended INEC for the timely arrival of voting materials.
He, however, alleged: “Information reaching me is that the majority of the villages are filled with thugs allegedly brought in by the APC.
“At the moment, all the villages are occupied with thugs. Villages like Ofosu, Omifunfun and Ala are occupied.
“There is a place called Igbepo where suspected thugs are in their numbers in Idanre Local Government Area.
“An incident happened in Ofosun where suspected thugs broke into the house of a party member to prevent him from voting. We were informed that there were plans not to allow people in the villages to vote. I have reported the matter to the DPO and DSS.”
APC reacts
Reacting, Ondo APC spokesperson, Mr Steve Otaloro, absolved his party of involvement in any crime and demanded a thorough investigation into the allegations.
Otaloro said: “I am in APC situation room right now. The person you mentioned is the deputy governorship candidate to Agboola Ajayi of the PDP. And if you recall PDP had a press conference two days ago alleging that the kind of violence that happened in that place was by APC.”
When contacted, Police spokesperson, Funmi Odunlami, said the incident had not been reported to the state police command.
DSS nabs suspected vote trader
However, operatives of the Department of State Services, DSS, yesterday, arrested a suspected vote trader with bags of money.
The suspect was arrested with bags of money at Ward 4, Polling Unit 007 outside St. Stephen’s Primary School in Akure, Ondo State.
He was apprehended with two bags of money meant to induce voters.
Speaking on the matter, a former lawmaker, who represented Akoko North East Local Government in the state House of Assembly, Mr Rasheed Olalekan, confirmed that there was vote buying.
Olalekan, who spoke at Ward 01, unit 10, Ikare-Akoko, said: “There was no case of snatching of ballot boxes like we used to experience in previous elections. They were buying votes for N15,000 per vote and you know PDP doesn’t have such money. PDP can’t even offer N2,000.”
On the conduct of the election, he said:”The turnout was impressive.”
No fewer than 30 military checkpoints were mounted from Akure to Oke- Agbe, in Akoko North West area of the state.
Also, in Ondo Central Senatorial District, security agencies including the Army, police and NSCDC mounted rock blocks to frisk commuters plying areas.
Some travellers coming into Ondo State through Ile-Oluji-Oke-Igbo and Boluwaduro areas were prevented from gaining entry.
Exercise peaceful
Although the exercise was peaceful and orderly in some areas, vote trading was openly done by the major parties.
The large turnout of voters in the Northern senatorial districts was a sequel to the cash inducements given to them by the party’s agents.
However, reports from both the central and southern senatorial districts showed that the turnout of voters was low.
Voters were given between N25,000 and N30,000 each with party leaders storming polling units with cash to induce voters.
INEC officials arrived early with voting materials while BVAS worked perfected in many of the polling units visited in the four council areas in Akoko, Owo, Akure South, Idanre and Ondo West council areas.
Journalists were delayed for hours by some military personnel, who insisted that they needed orders from above before allowing them passage despite showing them the INEC accreditation.
l’m satisfied — Aiyedatiwa
Commenting on the exercise, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who is the candidate of the APC, said he was satisfied with the conduct of the election.
Aiyedatiwa, who spoke after casting his vote at Polling Unit 5, Ugbo Ward 4, in Ilaje Local Government Area at 8:50 a.m, expressed optimism about the seamless conduct of the process.
The governor commended the organisation and efficiency at polling stations, noting that the process was both orderly and transparent.
Aiyedatiwa said: “Election was encouraging to see the exercise going smoothly here. I am hopeful that this is reflective of the experience across the state.”
He commended security agencies for their effective handling of potential threats during the exercise, stating that Ondo State is one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria.
He said:”We have consistently conducted peaceful elections over the years, and I am confident this one will be no different.”
The governor also commended INEC, expressing confidence in the transparency of the process.
Aiyedatiwa acknowledged the timely arrival of officials at his polling unit, but he stated he could not confirm the situation in other locations.
Poll was peaceful —Interior Minister, Tunji-Ojo
On his part, Interior Minister, Mr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, lauded INEC for conducting a peaceful and credible governorship election in Ondo State.
Tunji- Ojo told newsmen after casting his vote at Ward 03, unit 17 Court Hall/Igafo/Araoye in Akoko North West council area of the state.
He also commended INEC officials for arriving early for the exercise.
He said: “INEC has been fantastic so far. I got calls as early as 7am that they were already in the polling unit. The preparedness seems to be top-notch.
“Akoko North-West is never a troublesome place. In the 2023 elections, there was no cancellation of any polling unit. In the 2024 by-election, there was none; in 2019, there was none.
“We are peaceful people. We believe in democratic tenets. We allow people to come and cast their votes. We allow people to decide.’’
Rep Ehindero lauds INEC
Also, the lawmaker representing Akoko North-East/North-West Federal Constituency, Mr lfe Ehindero, expressed satisfaction with the orderly conduct of the voting process.
Ehindero commended INEC for ensuring a smooth and transparent election after casting his vote at Oyin/Oge Ward 4, Unit 2, Oyin Akoko in Akoko North-East/North-West Federal Constituency.
He expressed confidence in the APC and its candidate, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, to deliver impactful leadership and sustained development for the state.
He said:”We are here to build a better future for our people. I am optimistic about the choice Ondo State is making today. I encourage everyone to remain peaceful, cooperative, and vigilant throughout the process.”
Ajayi expresses disappointment
But PDP candidate, Ajayi, expressed dissatisfaction with the electoral process.
Ajayi spoke after voting at his Apoi Ward 11, Unit 004 at RCM Idumado Quarters Kiribo in Ese-Odo Local Government Area of the state.
He said: “The system has been compromised. Sadly, INEC can’t conduct elections well in one state. BVAS isn’t working, it took about 10 minutes to capture me.
“I think it is deliberate on the part of INEC and the REC, Mrs Oluwatoyin Babalola and we’ve said this several times that the woman can’t be fair.
“I have had a series of complaints from across the state, people are complaining about vote buying. It is a very shameful exercise.”
PSC Records Incidents of Vote-Buying
The Police Service Commission (PSC) said on Saturday that it’s monitors recorded some instances of vote buying at some polling centres during the Ondo State governorship election.
Recall that the PSC deployed staff to monitor the conduct of police officers in line with its constitutional mandate of checking and ensuring there was no Police misconduct during elections.
A statement by PSC issued by its spokesman, Ikechukwu Ani however lamented that vote buying reared it’s ugly head at the Ondo election.
He said “There were, however, reports of pockets of vote buying in some voting centres, which have become a recurring issue in elections in the country”
While commending security personnel deployed for the election in the state, he said, The PSC expressed its satisfaction with the performance of the security personnel who policed the Ondo State governorship election held today !Saturday.
“The Commission staff monitors reported that the security officers, particularly the police, arrived at voting centres on time and fulfilled their constitutional responsibility of securing the election space.
“The Commission monitors noted that the police officers were polite and civil but firm in the conduct of their electoral duties.
“DIG Sylvester Abiodun Alabi, Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of Force CID and who oversaw the security management of the election, ensured a seamless deployment of security personnel, with Commissioners of Police in charge of all the Local Government Areas.
“He was assisted by other senior police officers, including the AIG Zone 7, AIG Benneth Igwe, the Ondo State Commissioner of Police, CP Abayomi Oladipo Peter, and Olatunji Disu, CP of the Federal Capital Territory.
“PSC monitors reported that the election security was generally credible and above average and has received commendation from the Civil Society Situation Room.
“Members of the Situation Room also commended the Commission for its proactive oversight of police conduct during elections.”
On its part, Police Service Commission, PSC, said it recorded some instances of vote buying at some polling centres.
A statement by PSC issued by its spokesman, Ikechukwu Ani, lamented that vote buying was a factor during the exercise.
He said: “There were, however, reports of pockets of vote buying in some voting centres, which have become a recurring issue in elections in the country”
Speaking on the conduct of the election, two observer groups, Yiaga Africa and CDD-EAC, in their preliminary reports decried vote-trading.
Yiaga Africa said it deployed 300 stationary observers to 300 polling units across the 18 LGAs, noting that there was widespread vote-buying.
In its preliminary report, Messrs Ezenwa Nwagwu and Cynthia Mbamalu, Director of Programmes for Yiaga Africa, said the election began “calmly and orderly, demonstrating citizens’ interest in participating peacefully.”
It, however, commended operatives of the Department of State Security (DSS) for “apprehending an individual allegedly involved in vote trading at the St. Stephen Polling Unit in Ward 4, Akure.”
The report reads: “As Yiaga Africa reported in its pre-election statement, the lead-up to the elections was relatively peaceful. On election day, the process began calmly and orderly, demonstrating citizens’ interest in participating peacefully.
“Yiaga Africa observed widespread occurrence of vote buying across several polling units, which is becoming a permanent feature of our electoral process. We strongly condemn this practice, as it contributes to electoral corruption and political inequality.’’
Observers
On its part, the CDD Election Analysis Centre, CDD-EAC said the election was fraught with irregularities such as voter inducement in some council areas.
In a statement by its Lead, CDD-EAC Observation Mission Ondo, and Director, CDD-West Africa, Professor Victor Adetula and Dr Dauda Garuba, they lamented that vote trading was prevalent in some areas like Okitipupa and Odigbo council areas.
The group said: “CDD-EAC notes a lot of instances of vote buying In Okitipupa LGA, Ward 09, Unit 003 (Irowa, Ilutitun 3), voters were solicited for their votes, with APC allegedly offering N10,000 per voter and PDP N3,000. In Odigbo LGA, Ward 01, Unit 001 (Oja Baale, Agbabu), reports of vote-buying were noted, with APC allegedly offering N10,000 and PDP N3,000 per voter.’’
[Vanguard]
The World Bank has raised concerns over $32m in unaccounted funds from a Nigerian water sector project, sparking fears of embezzlement and mismanagement.
According to the FY2024 Sanctions System Annual Report, the Bank’s Integrity Vice Presidency (INT) discovered the discrepancies following a forensic review of the project’s financial records.
The funds, originally allocated to improve water infrastructure in Nigeria, were not properly accounted for, prompting the Bank to intervene to safeguard the project’s integrity.
In response, the World Bank engaged key project stakeholders, including Nigeria’s Task Team Leader, Operations Manager, and Financial Management Specialist, to address the issues.
To mitigate further risks, the Bank directed the Central Bank of Nigeria to reimburse $22m while retaining $6m in the project account to cover future operational expenses.
The Bank also restricted the project’s financial operations to direct payments, aiming to prevent additional irregularities.
A copy of the report obtained by Sunday PUNCH read, “INT followed up on risks identified regarding a project in Nigeria’s water sector and flagged to operations the risk, which was associated with $32m of unaccounted funds.
“INT met with the Task Team Leader, Operations Manager, Programme Leader, and Financial Management Specialist to identify steps to reduce the risk of embezzlement. As a result, the project team asked the Central Bank (of Nigeria) to reimburse the full amount ($22m) and limited the remainder of the project to direct payments.
“The local account remained with about $6m in undisbursed balance, a little more than the anticipated PIU expenses for the remainder of the project.”
Further investigations showed that the World Bank has imposed a 1.5-year debarment with conditional release on a Nigerian engineering firm and its managing director for fraudulent practices in the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project.
This decision follows an investigation by the bank’s Integrity Vice Presidency, which uncovered instances of misrepresentation during the bidding and execution phases of the project.
A document from the World Bank obtained by the platform provided more information on the project, noting, “This case arises in the context of the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project (the “Project”) in the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“The project sought to reduce vulnerability to soil erosion in targeted sub-watersheds in Nigeria. On April 16, 2013, Nigeria entered into a financing agreement with IDA for an amount equivalent to Special Drawing Rights (‘SDR’) 321.4m (approximately $500m at the time of signature) to support the project.
“Simultaneously, the bank and Nigeria entered into two grant agreements under the Global Environment Facility and the GEF Special Climate Change Fund, for $3.96m and $4.63m, respectively, to support the project.
“On February 12, 2019, the bank provided additional financing to Nigeria in the amount of SDR 208.7m (equivalent to $300m), plus a Scale-up Facility Additional Credit in the amount of $100m. The project became effective on September 16, 2013, and closed on June 30, 2022.”
The NEWMAP project, financed by the International Development Association and supported by the Global Environment Facility, was designed to reduce soil erosion in targeted Nigerian sub-watersheds.
The $900m project spanned multiple states, including Abia, where the firm under scrutiny was contracted.
The engineering firm, part of a joint venture, was awarded a $1.22m contract in 2015 to provide design and supervision services for erosion control.
The investigation revealed that during the selection process, the firm misrepresented the availability of key staff and the role of one of its JV partners.
Also, during project implementation, the firm replaced key personnel without notifying the project management unit, violating contract terms.
The investigation uncovered that two key staff members listed in the firm’s proposal were unavailable during the project.
Despite this, their resumes and certifications were included in the proposal to strengthen the bid.
The firm’s managing director admitted during the hearing that the staff’s availability was never confirmed before submission.
This act constituted a fraudulent misrepresentation, according to the World Bank’s Consultant Guidelines.
The firm also falsely claimed that a JV partner actively participated in the project.
While the partner was listed in the proposal, it neither contributed to the work nor received payment for its involvement.
The firm’s justification that the partner was included for its political connections was deemed unsubstantiated by the World Bank.
The firm and its managing director are barred from participating in any World Bank-financed projects for a minimum of 1.5 years.
This sanction extends across the World Bank Group and may be enforced by other multilateral development banks under a cross-debarment agreement.
The document read, “The Respondent Firm, together with any entity that is an Affiliate directly or indirectly controlled by the Respondent Firm, shall be ineligible to (i) be awarded or otherwise benefit from a Bank-financed contract, financially or in any other manner; (ii) be a nominated sub-contractor, consultant, manufacturer or supplier, or service provider of an otherwise eligible firm being awarded a Bank-financed contract; and (iii) receive the proceeds of any loan made by the Bank or otherwise participate further in the preparation or implementation of any Bank-Financed Projects.”
It added, “the Respondent Managing Director, together with any entity that is an Affiliate that he directly or indirectly controls, shall be ineligible to (i) be awarded or otherwise benefit from a bank-financed contract, financially or in any other manner; (ii) be a nominated sub-contractor, consultant, manufacturer or supplier, or service provider of an otherwise eligible firm being awarded a Bank-financed contract; and (iii) receive the proceeds of any loan made by the Bank or otherwise participate further in the preparation or implementation of any Bank-Financed Projects.”
Reinstatement after the debarment period is contingent on the firm implementing compliance measures, including the establishment of an integrity compliance program.
Further checks by Punch showed that a firm, Diyokes Consultants Limited, based in Enugu State, Nigeria was declared ineligible by the World Bank for a period of 1.5 years (from March 11, 2024, to September 10, 2025) for fraudulent practices.
The individual associated with the same firm, Innocent Diyoke, shared the same ineligibility period and grounds for sanction.
Both the firm and individual were linked to fraudulent activities uncovered in connection with the World Bank-financed project.
It was earlier reported that the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, secured loans worth $6.45bn from the World Bank in just 16 months.
The amount increased to the new figure following the recent approval of three new loans totalling $1.57bn from the World Bank for various projects in Nigeria and is expected to increase further in the coming months.
This was as the international lender approved no fewer than 36 loan requests to the Federal Government, amounting to a substantial total of $24.09bn within five years.
These approvals, aimed at financing various development projects nationwide, arrive alongside increasing concerns about the country’s escalating debt profile, prompting questions about the sustainability of these financial commitments and their potential long-term effects on the economy.
Some of the projects under Tinubu include loans for power ($750m), women empowerment ($500m), girl’s education ($700m), renewable energy ($750m), economic stabilization reforms ($1.5bn) and resource mobilization reforms ($750m).
For many Nigerians, long years of infrastructure decay and increased unemployment have triggered an increased feeling of bitterness whenever they hear the government’s intention to borrow.
Although some of them realistically agree that resources are thin, considering an outsized population; however, they believe the past borrowings have not been justified.
Chidimma Adetshina, the newly crowned Miss Universe Nigeria, has made history by becoming the first runner-up at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant.
The grand finale of the Miss Universe 2024 beauty pageant ended in Mexico City on Sunday morning, with Miss Denmark Victoria Kjaer Theilvig taking home the crown.
Theilvig defeated Adetshina in the final, while contestants from Bolivia, Mexico, Venezuela, Argentina, Puerto Rico, Russia, Chile, Thailand, Canada and Peru also made it to the top 12.
Chidimma’s journey to the top was remarkable. She impressed judges and the audience with her thoughtful answers on diversity and human respect.
Initially, she made it to the top 30 finalists and gradually rose to the top five contenders, ultimately securing the top two spots alongside Theilvig.
Theilvig, however, took over the crown from Miss Universe 2023 Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua.
Chidimma’s feat means she is the first Nigerian woman to take the second spot — following in the footsteps of Agbani Darego was a contestant at Miss Universe 2001.
Darego became the first Nigerian to place among the top 10 semi-finalists, finishing seventh overall.
Chidimma’s path to Miss Universe was not without controversy. Born to a Nigerian father and Mozambican mother, she faced criticism and withdrew from the Miss South Africa pageant due to her nationality.
However, Silverbird Group, organisers of Miss Universe Nigeria, invited her to participate, and she was crowned the pageant’s winner.
Recently, Chidimma revealed she waited seven years to be able to walk the Miss Universe stage.
“Win or not I am so proud of myself and filled with so much joy and fulfilment for I am about to accomplish what once seemed impossible. I envisioned this moment and I’m about to make it a reality,” she had said.
“This journey hasn’t been easy for me mentally and emotionally. The tears, the pain, the trauma. The days I felt like giving up, the days I felt unworthy and undeserving, however I refuse to let anyone or anything dim my vision.
“This achievement is not just mine but it’s for NIGERIA, it’s for AFRICA. Your support and encouragement has been the fuel to my fire.”
[TheCable]
Nigeria’s representative, Chidimma Adetshina, has finished as the first runner-up at the 73rd Miss Universe Competition held in Mexico.
The final moments of the prestigious event, announced early Sunday morning, saw an electrifying face-off between Nigeria and Denmark, as the two women stood poised to claim the crown.
The competition, described as one of the most thrilling in recent years, celebrated the talents, intelligence, and elegance of women from around the globe.
In a post via Instagram, the organisers said, “The final two! Nigeria and Denmark, two incredible women, one unforgettable moment.”
Though Denmark ultimately won the crown, Adetshina’s exceptional performance and grace earned her widespread admiration from judges and audiences alike.
Details later…
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State and the All Progressives Congress, APC, governorship candidate, has vowed to concede defeat if he loses Saturday’s election.
Aiyedatiwa, however, said he would concede defeat if the governorship election is free and fair.
He disclosed this while addressing journalists after casting his vote at polling unit 05, Igbo Ward 4, Obenla in Ilaje LGA of the state.
Aiyedatiwa said reports from his aides showed that the election has been largely peaceful in some other units of the state.
“If the outcome of the poll does not favour my party, APC, as long as we did not receive any report that it (poll) was fraudulent in any way.
“Why not? We will accept defeat. But if we notice any practices and non-compliance of the procedures.
“The only thing is to go to the tribunal to challenge that. By and large, if it goes that way, I will accept the outcome of the election.”
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As Nigeria grapples with biting economic hardship, a quieter crisis is unfolding- the pressure to provide for family has become a crushing weight for many men.
The fight to repress this pressure, especially in a society that prioritizes issues affecting women and children, has driven some men into depression.
In Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, a 45-year-old father of two who said he has fallen into depression as a result of his incapacity to provide adequately for his family, narrates his struggle to DAILY POST.
Every day, Idris (not his real name), who lives in the Ijeja area of the state, treks to his place of work in an attempt to manage his N16,000 salary.
With his hand on his chin, Idris, clothed in a faded dark blue shirt, said he works as a gate man at a well-known beer parlour along Onikoko, Panseke Road.
“Since I only make N16,000 a month working as a gate man, I trek to work every day in order to manage my salary, the cost of transportation is now high.
“I was previously earning N13,000, but as the prices of things got higher, my salary was increased to N16,000,” he said.
Shaking his head in self-pity, Idris said that despite his efforts, he sees himself as a failed man who cannot provide for his family.
“They do not pay me in cash; I am always given a cheque; I would have to go to the bank to cash the money. My wife does not work, so I must do everything to take care of my family,” he told DAILY POST.
Also, a middle-aged single father of two simply identified as Fred said, “I feel like I’m going crazy, especially when the money at hand isn’t enough to meet the basic necessities”.
He asserted that, like him, many men are falling sick every day, but rather than visit the hospital, they concentrate on taking care of their families.
“This hardship affects my reasoning, thinking and emotions. Sometimes it looks like I’m running mad when I start calculating all the things I want to do, especially when I know that what I have at hand cannot even take care of my needs.
Men Don’t Cry, Yet Dying In Silence
Men have a duty to provide for the family, and amid the toiling they are often less inclined to express their emotions because men don’t cry, as the popular saying goes.
As family heads, men, while dealing with a lot of emotional difficulties, find it hard to express their feelings or ask for help so as not to be perceived as being weak or even lazy.
According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), over 6 million men suffer from depression annually. However, these cases are frequently underdiagnosed.
The World Health Organization (WHO) in 2017 claimed that 7,079,815 Nigerians suffer from depression. Depression is a type of mental illness that is characterized by unhappiness and can lead to suicide.
Seven million Nigerians represent approximately 4 percent of the entire population, thus making Nigeria the most depressed country in Africa.
It has long been the norm for men to be strong, independent, and emotionally resilient, and this has left them with no choice but to bottle up emotions even when they need help.
It is also reported that men’s depression over family burden in Nigeria is a significant fraction of the global burden of diseases, accounting for 40% of the leading health conditions contributing to disability-adjusted life years (DALYS).
37-year-old Adesegun Akinsanya admitted that there is pressure to maintain a strong external look even while struggling internally.
“I’m a father of three. I have to provide for food, clothing and even transportation.
“I was brought up with the mentality that men are to shoulder the responsibilities, and that is a pressure I deal with every day,” he told DAILY POST.
Unlike the other men, Akinsanya has a wife who works, yet he expresses his fears.
“I am the head, and I don’t want her shouldering the responsibilities, although I want to change that mindset, but I cannot, that was what we were taught from infancy,” he said.
Fear of Judgment and Failure
Akinsanya pointed out that he has refrained from seeking assistance or talking about his struggles because of fear of being perceived as incompetent or a failure.
He admitted that the current economic hardship has added to the burden of men, yet, he wallows in silence and cannot speak out.
“Before now, my wife prepared a pot of soup with N5,000, but it’s different now; just two fishes would cost almost N4,000; even while cooking the gas would finish. I don’t know how to ask people for help, so I try to save the little I have and manage myself,” he said.
“I Shout On My Wife, Children When I’m Frustrated”
Akinsanya disclosed that when he is weighed down with the challenges of providing, he transfers the aggression to his wife.
“It’s an everyday pressure, and sometimes when I’m tired, I react angrily and shout at them when they ask for money,” he said.
Similarly, Fred revealed that while he gets irrational and upset over minor issues, he also distances himself from friends and families.
Fred said, “Sometimes for something that is not worth shouting on, I shout, I react irrationally sometimes to my friends, I get angry over little things that are not worth it, and when I get home and have a rethink, I start blaming myself and have to apologize the next day.
“Naturally, I don’t know how to beg, I carry my cross alone and at worst I distance myself from people, face my problems and once I get out of it, I start socializing with people again.”
Bottling Up Emotions Can Lead to Depression, Substance Abuse, Suicide – Psychiatrist
The Secretary General of the Association of Psychiatrists in Nigeria (APN), Dr Abayomi Olajide, said suppressed emotions might result in increased tension, anxiety, depression, substance abuse and even suicide.
Olajide asserted that silence is not a good coping strategy and can also lead to strained relationships with partners, family, and friends.
“The concept of men’s mental health is very broad, yes; it is often known that men don’t cry; they do not express their emotions; instead, they go about showing strength even when they are hurting.
“But it is not a good coping strategy, a problem shared is a problem solved. Internalizing some of these challenges often leads to anxiety problems, depression, and, for some, increased substance abuse.
“It could also affect their interpersonal relationship, and that can cause a lot of distress, psychosocial challenges, marital disharmony, social interactions can also be affected because they go about with tension,” he told DAILY POST.
Speak Out When You Feel Less Of Yourself – Psychologist
Mrs Damilola Onebamhoin, a counselling psychologist in Abeokuta, advised men to speak up when they feel inferior, warning that there is a connection between self-esteem and achievements to depression.
According to Onebamhoin, men must understand that asking for assistance and talking about their challenges is a show of strength and bravery rather than a sign of weakness.
The psychologist disclosed that talking to others about their worries might help reduce the burden, avoid mental health problems, and strengthen their relationships with loved ones.
She said, “Most people who have their goals outlined and they meet those goals or find fulfilment in doing something hardly fall into depression.
“An average person who feels lacking in one area or the other would want to feel depressed and it’s connected to our mental health. So when you begin to feel less of yourself then there is a problem.
“There’s something that connects your self-esteem and achievements to depression. Attaining a state of isolation and depression can lead to suicidal thoughts,” she added.
‘How Men Can Get Help’
Olajide advised men to first accept the fact that the economy is bad and things aren’t going as anticipated.
This, according to him, will enable them to realize the need to discuss the problems, get assistance when needed, and seek counsel.
The Consultant Psychiatrist who works at the Neuropsychiatrist Hospital, Aro, Abeokuta, also recommended reminiscence therapy, explaining that they can recall memories of things they achieved in the past and dwell on them to encourage them.
He told DAILY POST that: “Support groups are also important in the society and community.
“Attending workshops or seminars- they must engage in problem-solving skills or use the knowledge of others to engage the problem and then move on with the solution.
“Yes, reminicious therapy, you can look back and think about what you’ve done in the past, the success you achieved, and rely on those things to encourage you.”
He emphasized that all men must keep in mind that they are not alone and that many others have faced and conquered similar difficulties.
‘The Society Have A Role To Play’
Olajide argued that society must learn to accept men as human beings, not superheroes who can do everything without having emotions.
He noted that rather than stigmatizing and discriminating against them, they should encourage them to talk about their struggles.
“Society should accept that men are human beings and are not superman. I think we need to change our ideology about men being superheroes who can do everything without having emotions.
“We need to begin to look at them as people with feelings and emotions, who can be hurt, disappointed, and can cry.
“Once society accepts that there is a little difference in the emotional component of men and women, it will give them that confidence to come out.
‘The Government Has a Role To Play’
Olajide urged all tiers of governments to do everything within their power to alleviate the challenging economic hardship facing the country.
According to him, they should provide chances for self-improvement, productivity, earning money, learning new skills, and other activities that are known to enhance men’s mental health.
The Consultant Psychiatrist, however, opined that they should also invest in sporting activities as this, among others, can help men deal with pressure and challenges.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited says there is no plan to remove Mele Kyari, its group chief executive officer (GCEO).
A report had speculated that Kyari may not last in his post until the end of the year following a major shakeup at the organisation.
Speaking to Punch on November 15, Olufemi Soneye, NNPC’s chief corporate communications officer, described the report as a baseless speculation.
“One might wonder if they were the ones who hired Mele Kyari, given their apparent insight into his career plans. Such baseless speculation is not only laughable but also a testament to the lengths some will go to craft immature narratives,” Soneye said.
“Let’s set the record straight: GCEO Mele Kyari is performing exceptionally, steering Nigeria’s energy sector toward unprecedented success.
“Under his leadership, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited has transitioned from years of losses to declaring profits—a historic achievement.
“Just yesterday (Thursday), we reached a production milestone of 1.8 million barrels per day, a testament to his unwavering commitment.”
The Soneye said Kyari is focused on actualising President Bola Tinubu’s vision for progress and development in the energy sector, ensuring energy security for our nation.
“So, to address the rumour: it’s as credible as a mirage in the desert,” he added.
On November 13, the NNPC announced a major reshuffling in the leadership of the NNPC.
The national company appointed Adedapo Segun as its chief financial officer (CFO).
The company also named Udobong Ntia as the new executive vice-president (EVP) of its upstream operations.
Afrobeats superstar Wizkid has set a new streaming record with his latest single, Kese, which amassed over 1.5 million Spotify streams within 24 hours of its release.
This milestone surpasses the previous record held by Davido’s Awuke. The chart-topping track is a standout from Wizkid’s upcoming album Morayo and comes shortly after his recent hit, Piece of My Heart, featuring American singer Brent Faiyaz.
According to a recent report by Chart Data, Wizkid now holds the top two spots for the most-streamed songs in Nigeria on their debut day.
Kese takes the lead, while Piece of My Heart secures the runner-up position. Asake’s Grammy-nominated track MMS, from his album Lungu Boy and featuring Wizkid, follows in third place with 870,000 streams.
Wizkid’s previous release, Piece of My Heart, had earlier made history as the first Nigerian song to hit one million Spotify streams on its release day.
This achievement was later surpassed by Davido’s Awuke before Kese set a new record.
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Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo has come forward with revelation about the intense backlash she faced while fighting for justice for the late Nigerian singer, Ilerioluwa Aloba, better known as Mohbad.
Speaking candidly on the ‘Glass House’ with AY, the actress revealed how her activism became the target of vicious online attacks and scandalous accusations that took a personal toll.
She disclosed that, instead of being applauded for her activism, she was relentlessly targeted, with critics accusing her of being responsible for his death.
According to her, she was also branded a clout chaser, with many claiming she was using the tragedy to gain attention.
Iyabo passionately declared that her fight for justice was driven by a genuine desire to honor Mohbad’s memory and hold those responsible accountable.
Ojo said;
“They were even insinuating that maybe I killed Mohbad. I wasn’t around when Mohbad died. I was not close to him. I didn’t really know him that much.
“My encounter with him was during One Africa music fest. For the few days that we were together, I just knew that he was a cool boy, had his own thing he was going through and doing his music.
“If I killed him, then why was I fighting for his body to be exhumed for autopsy? There was a time they said I was paid [for my activism in getting justice for Mohbad]. They also said I was looking for a political position.
“They even said I was using it for clout. There are so many things that have been said about me. But I am not bothered because that isn’t the case. All I did was just to help seek justice for the late singer.”
TUNE INTO HER WORDS IN THE CLIP BELOW