The phrase “It’s the economy, stupid” gained prominence during Bill Clinton’s successful 1992 U.S. presidential campaign, thanks to strategist James Carville. It served as a directive to campaign staff, urging them to focus on key economic issues to sway voters. In a similar vein, the title of this piece—“Detty December: It’s the Currency Devaluation, Plain and Simple!”—is aimed at highlighting a core factor behind the recent surge in economic activities and festivities in Nigeria during December: the significant devaluation of the naira.

This devaluation prompted many Nigerians living abroad to return home to celebrate the holidays with their families, spurring an unprecedented wave of revelry and tourism. As I see it, this marks a tangible benefit of President Tinubu’s socioeconomic reforms. Without a doubt, December’s economic boom, particularly in Lagos, was fueled by diasporans’ spending and benefited various service providers, including hotels, car rental businesses, nightclubs, cruise operators, and food vendors. Even microeconomic activities saw funds trickling down the value chain, driven by the influx of diasporans escaping winter from overseas.

Until now, the positive impact of this devaluation had gone unnoticed or unacknowledged by many, especially critics who dismissed my earlier piece, “Governing Nigeria is Tough, But Tinubu is Achieving Remarkable Progress” (published in ThisDay on Christmas Day, 2024). In that article, I suggested that the Nigerian economy was beginning to thaw. However, some skeptics failed to appreciate the role the weaker naira played in the remarkable economic activities witnessed during December, particularly in Lagos.

With the naira trading between ₦1,166 and ₦1,750 to the dollar by December, the exchange rate was nearly four times what it was before Tinubu assumed office in May 2023. For diasporans, this provided a unique advantage. Take, for instance, a nurse or doctor in the UK who migrated (or “japa-ed”) and suddenly found their £1,000 paycheck converting to a minimum of ₦2 million at the rate of ₦2,000 to £1. Such individuals could easily afford a luxurious week-long stay in Nigeria, renting hotels or short-let apartments, hiring cars, enjoying boat cruises, dining out, and indulging in Lagos’ vibrant nightlife.

This windfall spending by diasporans, as highlighted in a recent revealing report, underscores the vital role currency devaluation played in creating the economic dynamism of December 2024. It’s a phenomenon that further validates the optimism expressed in my earlier commentary about Nigeria’s evolving economic landscape.

By now, many readers may have come across the insightful analysis of Nigeria’s economic activities during December 2024, particularly in Lagos. However, for those who might have missed this remarkable report—which has gone viral on social media and received significant attention in traditional media—I will summarize its key points to provide context for the discussion on how naira devaluation has driven positive economic outcomes.

One of the reports, authored by Mr. Kayode Osebi, a consultant to the Lagos State government on taxation and revenue, was reportedly commissioned by the Lagos State government. While the accuracy of the research cannot be independently verified, the data aligns with the economic realities experienced during December. Below are the highlights:
• Inbound Passenger Traffic: Between November 19 and December 26, 2024, Lagos Airport (MMA) recorded approximately 550,000 inbound passengers, 90% of whom were Nigerians in the diaspora visiting for leisure and tourism.
• Tourist Origin and Destinations: The top five originating countries were the U.S., Canada, Italy, South Africa, and the U.K., while Lagos, Edo, Delta, Ondo, and Ogun States were the top destination states. Lagos alone hosted an estimated 1.2 million tourists, 60% of whom were local tourists from the South East and FCT.

The report also noted that insecurity in the South East and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s presence in Lagos contributed to the influx of visitors.
• Hotel Revenue: Hotel bookings generated an estimated ₦54 billion ($36 million) in revenue, with 15,000 confirmed bookings in December. Guest spending on food and beverages amounted to ₦13.5 billion ($8 million), while the top 15 hotels accounted for ₦10.5 billion in bookings.
• Short-Let Apartments: Short-let apartment bookings were valued at ₦21 billion ($13 million) across 5,937 apartments, with an average daily rate of ₦120,000. Eko Atlantic ranked highest in residential bookings, while Banana Island recorded the highest estate bookings by value.
• Nightlife and Recreation: The top 15 lounges and nightclubs generated ₦4.32 billion ($2.7 million) in sales, with daily revenues averaging ₦360 million and table spends averaging ₦1.2 million. Beach and resort bookings brought in an additional ₦4.5 billion ($2.8 million), with Ilashe/Ibese and Elegushi beach houses leading in revenue.

Other highlights included:
• Event centers earning ₦1.2 billion ($804,000) from 1,175 bookings.
• Car rentals in the Eti-Osa area generating ₦1.5 billion ($937,500) from 750 high-end vehicle bookings, with daily rates reaching as high as ₦2 million.
• An additional ₦20 billion ($13 million) in revenue from recreational activities such as artist bookings, fine dining, boat rentals, and DJ services.

These figures, compiled by Mr. Osebi, align with another Lagos-based report titled The Economics of Detty December by GrowingNigeria.com. Both reports highlight the significant inflow of funds into the Nigerian economy during the festive period, particularly in Lagos, which served as the epicenter of the festivities.

What stands out most is the sheer scale of money injected into the economy by Nigerians in the diaspora. Instead of enduring the cold winters in Europe and North America, many returned home to celebrate with their families, spurring economic growth. Their spending fueled a near-carnival atmosphere, attracting Afrobeat enthusiasts and tourists from around the world, reminiscent of how reggae music was popularized globally in the 1990s by icons like Bob Marley.

The Bigger Picture.

To fully appreciate the significance of Detty December, it is essential to consider its broader economic implications. A summary of the referenced report captures it succinctly:

“Detty December has evolved from a simple season of family time and Christmas jollof into a global attraction for diasporans, tourists, and Afrobeat lovers. Whether through concerts, beach parties, weddings, or fashion shows, this cultural phenomenon has become a time to experience everything Nigeria has to offer. But beyond the good vibes, have you ever stopped to think about the economics of it all?”

This lighthearted description transitions into a deeper discussion about the massive inflow of foreign exchange into the Nigerian economy. Once converted into naira, these funds were used for lifestyle and entertainment, creating significant economic benefits, particularly for Lagos.
Clearly, Detty December in Nigeria did not commence in 2024. But the exceptional turnout and outcome of the celebrations last december have been exceptional. That is because of the naira devaluation under Tinubu’s watch. Not many commentators including the authors of the headlines hugging reports viewed the Detty December phenomenon from that prism.
Conventionally, nations prefer their currencies to be weak to boost exports and trade because the lower the value of a country’s currency, the more she will be exporting as lower costs attract importers. This can help stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and improve the trade balance.
Critics may argue that Nigeria need not devalue her currency simply because it has nothing substantial to export, except crude/refined petroleum products which in anycase the price is being determined by the Organization of Oil Producing Countries,OPEC.
I would argue that such a point of view is not exactly correct. That is because the huge number of Nigerian professionals in health care and Fintech migrating abroad are actually our exports. India and the Philipines generate enormous revenue from their human resources working in the diaspora.
The potentials of Nigeria’s diaspora population is evidenced by the CBN data cited by the authors/researchers of the Detty December survey where it was noted that over $20 billion was remitted by diasporan Nigerians back home in 2022 and reflective of how the economic landscape of Lagos was impacted for good last december.
In light of the above, is it not preprostrous that there was a time when the agenda of some of our political leaders during campaigns was making the naira exhange rate to be at par with the dollar i.e N1 equal to $1?
Thankfully, president Tinubu is not one of those romantizing the so called good old days of the naira exchange rate being higher than the pound sterling and dollar.

In conclusion, Detty December has showcased the untapped potential of Nigeria’s tourism sector. With the right policies and infrastructure, the nation could transform this seasonal boom into a year-round driver of economic growth.

Tragic December: Lessons for Nigeria’s Tourism Potential.

Before diving further into the economic gains generated by Detty December in Nigeria, it’s important to reflect on the tragedies that marred the same period. In my column titled “Tragic December: Why Can’t Palliatives Be Distributed Dangote Way?”, I addressed the unfortunate loss of over 70 lives in stampedes during food and palliative distribution events in Ibadan, Abuja, and Okija between December 18 and 21.

These avoidable tragedies underscore the urgent need for Nigeria’s national and subnational governments to enact laws regulating the distribution of aid to prevent such disasters in the future. Similar historical incidents, such as the 1929 St. Valentine’s Day Massacre in Chicago, prompted legal reforms in the U.S. to safeguard lives during public events. Nigerian lawmakers should take inspiration from such examples and establish regulations to prevent harm during public gatherings.

The heartbreaking losses during December meant that many families were plunged into mourning during what should have been a time of celebration. This stark contrast highlights the need to ensure that future festivities are not tainted by avoidable tragedies.

The Economics of Detty December.

Returning to the report titled “The Economics of Detty December” by a firm known as GrowingNigeria, the document reveals the massive economic boost generated by festive activities, particularly in Lagos. The editors highlighted how Detty December has evolved into a major economic driver, attracting foreign currency and stimulating various industries.

Key Insights:
1. Diaspora Contributions: Nigerians in the diaspora, carrying foreign currencies, are central to the December economic boom. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) reported diaspora remittances exceeding $20 billion in 2023, a significant portion of which flowed in during the festive season.
2. Tourism and Spending: Dollars, pounds, and euros exchanged at airports and POS machines across Lagos fueled spending on flights, hotels, events, and cultural activities. Custom-made outfits (aso-ebi) for weddings and events further benefited local artisans.
3. Ripple Effects: Industries such as hospitality, logistics, events, and even local crafts saw significant liquidity. As the report noted: “Detty December is more than a social calendar; it is a money-making machine.”

Unlocking Nigeria’s Tourism Potential by replicating Detty December financial boom nation wide.

The economic success of Detty December underscores Nigeria’s untapped tourism potential. However, the benefits are currently concentrated in Lagos. To fully harness tourism, the following steps must be prioritized:
1. Addressing Insecurity: The lingering insecurity in Nigeria, particularly in the northern regions, must be tackled. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu must work to dissuade religious insurgents through persuasion and economic opportunities rather than relying solely on military force.
• Example from Islamic Countries: Countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Egypt, despite being Islamic nations, have leveraged tourism as a significant income source. For instance, Saudi Arabia earned $36 billion from tourism in 2023, contributing 11.5% to its GDP.
2. Tourism as a Tool for Peace: By creating job opportunities in tourism, the government can redirect those involved in insurgency toward productive activities. Former militants could serve as tour guides or offer other services, as seen in the Middle East and North Africa.
3. Diversifying Tourism Beyond Lagos: Authorities should promote tourism nationwide, leveraging Nigeria’s vast cultural and natural attractions. Lagos should remain a hub, but other states with rich histories and unique landmarks must also be developed as tourism destinations.

Comparisons to Global Tourism Earnings.

Despite Nigeria’s size and cultural wealth, its tourism revenue in 2022 was only $17.3 billion, representing just 3.6% of its GDP. This pales in comparison to:
• Saudi Arabia: $36 billion (11.5% of GDP in 2023)
• UAE: AED 220 billion (11.7% of GDP in 2023)
• Egypt: $15 billion (2023)

With strategic planning, improved security, and proper investments, Nigeria could significantly increase its tourism revenues and reduce reliance on oil.

Detty December has proven that tourism is a viable path for Nigeria’s economic growth. The challenge now lies in extending its benefits nationwide while addressing the structural issues holding the sector back.
We can emulate Egypt which is an African country deeply rooted in lslam yet they welcome foreigners as tourists to live amongst them.

In Egypt for instance, there is a city known as Sham El Shek. It is a purpose built location for european tourists who have established their winter homes over there. Currently , owing to climate change effects, europe and north America -USA and Canada are frozen with the elderly ones anxious to relocate to countries with more clement weather.
The weather and environment of Sham El Shek is not different from what is obtainable in Kaduna and kano states in Nigeria.
There are even tourist locations such as Tiga Dam around Kaduna and Kano.
Ordinarily, the europeans spending their winter in Egypt could have done the same in Nigeria.
But they are unable to do so owing to insecurity imposed on the areas by religous extremists and bandits including herders-famers engaging in violent clashes.
The same panacea being proposed for the northern parts of Nigeria applies to the Unknown Gunmen , ravaging the south east also known as separatists and environmental rights activist who have become militants in the Niger Delta.
The faith based institutions and priests in those regions also have a role to play in persuading the angry Nigerians engaged in rebellion against our country in multiple guises, that it is time to give peace a chance so that we can all harness the immense potentials of our beloved country for the greater good of all.
Magnus Onyibe, a public policy analyst, author, democracy advocate, development strategist, alumnus of the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University, Massachusetts, USA, and a former commissioner in the Delta State government, (2003-2007) sent this piece from Lagos, Nigeria.

To continue with this conversation and more, please visit www.magnum.ng.

Rhodes-Vivior stated this on Monday while reacting to the impeachment of the state’s House of Assembly Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa.

Naija News reported that Obasa was accused of financial misappropriation by the House. However, the Lagos political structure was in heat over the reported governorship ambition of Obasa clashing with that of the son of President Bola Tinubu, Seyi Tinubu.

The Deputy Speaker of the House, Mojisola Lasbat Miranda, who represents Apapa State Constituency 1 of the Lagos State was sworn in as Speaker.

In his reaction on his X handle, the former Labour Party governorship candidate wondered why the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) was not interested in financial misappropriation before the governorship ambition saga erupted in the state.

“It’s interesting that the EFCC just realized the corruption of APC Lagos politicians. It is not a coincidence that they all have ambition to become the next governor.

“Your principal has just indirectly communicated that Lagos is his birthright and that of his descendants, and every aspiring APC politician exists solely to further his interest and that of his family.

“I have said this before and will say it again. Lagos is bigger than him and we must remind him that Lagos is not his to bequeath,” he wrote.

[NaijaNews]

Lagos State House of Assembly has sworn in its first female Speaker, Mojisola Meranda.

Meranda took her oath of office after the impeachment of the former Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, on Monday during a plenary session.

She represents the Apapa 1 state constituency in the assembly.

She was first elected as a member of the House in 2015, representing Apapa constituency 1. She was re-elected in 2019 and 2023.

Before her time in the House, Mrs Meranda served the Apapa local government in different capacities. She also worked in the private sector.

Her late father was a legislator at the local level before he became the Ojora of Lagos. Her mother is from the prominent Oniru family in Lagos. Her brother is the Oniru of Iru land, Oba AbdulWasiu Omogbolahan Lawal.

Mrs Meranda began her primary education at St. Charles Nursery and Primary School before moving to Randle Primary School at Randle Avenue in Surulere from 1986 to 1992.

She attended Lagos Anglican Girls Grammar School (1992-1996) and Ansar-Ud-Deen Secondary School (1996-1998), both in Surulere, where she was a library prefect and secretary of the press club.

She obtained the West African School Certificate (WASC) in 1998, according to her official House profile.

After her secondary education, Mrs Meranda obtained an advanced certificate in software development in 2005. She is also recorded as having attended Lagos State University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Public Administration in 2013.

In 2018, she returned to school, enrolling at the University of Lagos.

In 2003, at the age of 23, she began working as a personal assistant to Dr. Olumuyiwa Gbadegesin, a senior special assistant on technology and special projects to Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Between 2007 and 2008, Mrs Meranda worked in the oil and gas industry with Cirrus Nigeria Limited as a procurement manager.

She returned to politics in 2008, taking active roles in the Apapa local government, first as a senior special assistant on intervention and intergovernmental affairs to the then Chairman, Ayodeji Joseph, and later as a supervisory councilor for health.

In 2014, she joined Worthline International Services Limited as head of operations. Worthline was originally registered in 2012, with Mrs Meranda as a director.

And then in 2015, she was elected as a member of the House.

[YTheNation]

Boxing legend Tyson Fury has announced his retirement from the sport, bringing an iconic career to an end following consecutive losses to undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.

Speculation had been rife about Fury’s next move, with fans eagerly anticipating either a trilogy bout against Usyk or a long-awaited showdown with fellow Briton Anthony Joshua.

Instead, the ‘Gypsy King’ has chosen to bow out of the ring, leaving an indelible mark on the world of boxing.

“Hi everybody, I’m going to make this short and sweet,” Fury said in an Instagram video on Monday afternoon, addressing his millions of fans. 

“I’d like to announce my retirement from boxing. It’s been a blast. I’ve loved every single minute of it. I’m going to end with this: Dick Turpin wore a mask. God bless everybody, see you on the other side.”

His video caption read, “Thanks, it’s been a blast  thanks to everyone who helped out along the way! Happy new year . Jesus is king  now & forever.”

Fury’s first encounter with Usyk in May last year ended in heartbreak, as the Ukrainian powerhouse handed him his first professional loss via split decision, claiming undisputed heavyweight status.

In a December rematch, Fury fought valiantly but fell short again, this time losing by unanimous decision.

The defeats sparked widespread debate about Fury’s future, with many touting a blockbuster clash with Anthony Joshua as the natural next step.

Joshua himself expressed eagerness for the matchup, declaring on Sunday at The Ring Magazine Awards last week: “It has to happen this year.”

Despite the mounting anticipation, Fury has opted to step away from the sport he dominated for over a decade.

His decision caps a storied career marked by grit, charisma, and unforgettable moments inside and outside the ring, Eurosport reported on Monday.

[Punch]

The United States unveiled new export rules Monday on chips used for artificial intelligence, furthering efforts to make it tough for China and other rivals to access advanced technology in Joe Biden’s final days as president.

The restrictions build on curbs announced in 2023 on exporting certain AI chips to China, which the United States sees as a strategic competitor.

In recent years, Washington has expanded its efforts to curb exports of state-of-the-art chips to China, which can be used in AI and weapons systems, as Beijing’s tech advancements spark concern among policymakers.

“The US leads the world in AI now — both AI development and AI chip design — and it’s critical that we keep it that way,” Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo told reporters. 

The new rules update controls on chips, requiring authorizations for exports, re-exports and in-country transfers — while also including a series of exceptions for countries considered friendly to the United States.

AI data centers meanwhile will need to comply with enhanced security parameters to be able to import chips.

But the latest move drew industry criticism and warnings that it would hurt US competitiveness.

Semiconductor Industry Association chief executive John Neuffer said: “We’re deeply disappointed that a policy shift of this magnitude and impact is being rushed out the door days before a presidential transition and without any meaningful input from industry.”

He added in a statement that the rule could cause “lasting damage to America’s economy and global competitiveness” by ceding key markets to rivals.

Chip titan Nvidia said in a blog post that “while cloaked in the guise of an ‘anti-China’ measure, these rules would do nothing to enhance US security.”

– Trump decision? –

The rules make it “hard for our strategic competitors to use smuggling and remote access to evade our export control,” White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said.

They also create “incentives for our friends and partners around the world to use trusted vendors for advanced AI,” he added.

The new rules will take effect in 120 days, Raimondo said, giving the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump time to potentially make changes.

In its blog post, Nvidia stressed that the first Trump administration showed how the United States “wins through innovation, competition and by sharing our technologies with the world — not by retreating behind a wall of government overreach.”

Trump put heavy tariffs on China during his first presidential term.

However, his backers in Silicon Valley could also see the rules as an undue burden on their ability to export products.

On Monday, Nvidia shares slid around three percent in early trading while Intel lost 1.6 percent and Advanced Micro Devices fell by about 0.8 percent.

For now, the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF) said that pressuring countries to choose between Washington and Beijing could alienate partners and boost China’s position in the global AI ecosystem.

“Many countries may opt for the side offering them uninterrupted access to the AI technologies vital for their economic growth and digital futures,” said ITIF vice president Daniel Castro.

AFP

“Why sale of Port Harcourt Refinery to Dangote was cancelled by President Yar’Adua by Femi Falana” – VANGUARD, January 4, 2025

I never thought a situation would arise which would induce me to come to the defence of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited, NNPCL. But, this page started with a pledge to adhere to the basic principles of journalism, which is facts are sacred; comments are free. We have tried to maintain that principle; despite the occasional emotional reactions of the officials who are carpeted on this page. Former President Obasanjo’s attack on the NNPC and late President Yar’Adua is one of those rare examples when NNPC must be defended.

First of all, my sincere appreciation goes to Femi Falana, SAN, whose rejoinder to OBJ in the VANGUARD, cited above, has partly exonerated the NNPCL.

Posterity will someday recognise Falana as one of the greatest lawyers of our era. He had, in that short piece, exposed the corruption behind the purported sale of the refinery to Dangote for $750 million. One does not need to be versed in law; neither is it necessary to have a great grasp of the English language to understand that what Obasanjo called a sale was in reality a scam.

“If I were to try to read, much less answer, all the attacks made on me, this shop might as well be closed for any other business”.

US President Abraham Lincoln, 1809-1865.

However, before going further, I must advise the Board and Management of the NNPCL to develop appropriate thick skin to criticisms. In a situation in which every decision affects various groups differently, for good or ill, it is out of question to expect losers to join the praise singing or for winners to see anything wrong with the decision. Invariably, there are very few neutral observers.

More to the point, it is difficult for me to understand why the current managers of the NNPCL felt called upon to publish rejoinders to Obasanjo’s outburst when most of it referred to decisions made long before any of them got into office. Two Presidents – Jonathan and Buhari – had the opportunity to revisit Yar Adua’s decision, which was most patriotic, and they did not reverse it. So, what has the current NNPCL managers got to do with it? They should simply have ignored Baba.

“Truth that’s told with bad intent/ Beats all the lies you can invent.” William Blake, 1757-1827.

NNPCL should have left OBJ to Falana and Dele Sobowale; who know a lot more about why the former president is still sore about the sale of the refinery.

As Falana pointed out, the former President co-opted the statutory functions of the Vice-President by giving the excuse that he wanted to eradicate corruption in the privatisation process. He did the same with the Petroleum Development Trust Fund, PDTF. Yet, a Senate ad hoc Committee, headed by Senator Daisy Danjuma had this to say about PDTF under Obasanio.

“I was shocked, disturbed at the extent of gross abuse of office, privileges and misapplication of public funds by both the President and Vice President…PDTF was paying for services outside its mandate.” PDP:

CORRUPTION INCORPORATED, P. 19S). Incidentally, page 197 of the book has information vital to a current case of defamation now trending. Somebody close to Obasanjo must be very careful. Reputation once considered rock solid is in jeopardy. Just as Obasanjo was intentionally hypocritical and used the office of Nuhu Ribadu, Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, to cover his involvement in the controversial PDTF funds case he was not totally honest about why 51 % shares in two refineries were sold on May 17 and 28 respectively. Keen observers would notice that the second sale, on May 28, 2007, was made on Obasanjo’s last day in office when all the organs of government which should have been involved have shut down. Again as Falana rightly pointed out, the shares in the Port Harcourt refinery sold for $516 dollars were estimated to be worth $5 billion. It is baffling how anybody who disposed of public assets worth $5 billion for $516 million can still go around talking as if he was acting in the national interest. We all know what would have happened to such a man in China or Singapore!

SALE OF OIL BLOCK

“$2 billion oil block sold at $5 million”. The NATION, July 31, 2008.

The sub-head to the story said: “The DPR chief, Obasanjo directed sale”. The rest of the story read as follows: “The House of Representatives Ad Hoc Committee probing the oil sector heard yesterday how a $2.28 billion [then, N296.4 billion; now N3.476 trillion] was sold to a Chinese firm for $5 million by some workers of the Directorate of Petroleum Resources, DPR”

Further, one Tony Chukwueke, a Director of the DPR, said the “block was awarded on the directive of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.” The full disclosure about this deal is available on pages 290 to 292 of PDP: CORRUPTION INCORPORATED, which was published in 2011. The truth is, when Obasanjo took the unprecedented step of appointing himself Minister of Petroleum Resources, he claimed that the aim was to wipe out corruption in the sector. Probes by Ad Hoc Committees of the Senate and House of Representatives have proved beyond reasonable doubt that instead of eradicating corruption, Obasanjo encouraged it. Before you start thinking that another Dele is fishing in troubled waters, just read the book. It is available online. You will be amazed that a former official who has so many skeletons in the archives of the National Assembly, NASS, would still be pointing accusing fingers at a sector in which his government established a new template for corruption.

DELIBERATE NEGLECT OF TURN AROUND MAINTENANCE

“TAM contract awards: More sacrifices on the altar of greed.”

When Obasanjo decided on fuel subsidy removal and proposed to privatise the four refineries, his government released a document which made several revelations. Pages 283 to 288 of PDP: CORRUPTION INCORPORATED were based on a document titled REPORT OF THE SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON THE REVIEW OF PETROLEUM PRODUCTS SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION which was released by the Federal Government in October 2000.

 I must confess to receiving a copy plus briefing before other columnists from late Mr Tuni Oseni, the President’s Senior Special Adviser before it was widely distributed. Read my book; and you would be shocked at the depth of deliberate sabotage at the highest levels of government.

Because of space constraints, I will limit myself to only one issue – Turn Around Maintenance, TAM. The last TAM was in 1994 before 1999. TAMs were last carried out regularly under Babangida. Obasanjo undertook only one – which was not full – before deciding to privatise and sold one to his crony. The refineries were deliberately allowed to run down; they operated at about eighteen per cent of installed capacity; in order to provide the excuse for selling them as scrap to a benefactor. Read the truth and you will feel sorry for Nigeria for having such a leader at a critical point in our history.

I am a member of the foreign relations think tank, the Society for International Relations Awareness, SIRA. Its membership is made up primarily of retired ambassadors, Emeritus Professors, academics, former Permanent Secretaries, political scientists and lawyers. There is just a sprinkling of other professionals such as the military and trade unions. About four years ago, SIRA founding President, Professor Nuhu Omeiza Yaqub, former Vice Chancellor, University of Abuja, UNIABUJA and, later, Sokoto State University, called me. He wanted to visit me at home. I protested that it was I as one of his mentees that should visit him. He insisted on the visit. What he said shocked me. The elders of SIRA had consulted and had decided that I should be the next president of the organisation. I gave some reasons why I could not be SIRA President, including the fact that I had not even been a member of the Executive Board. Yaqub brushed aside my objections saying I had no choice in the matter. He added in his characteristic humour that since Nigeria is a democracy, I had the right to protest against my nomination at the convention.

He had no airs and was ever ready to assist people. In January 2024, I sent him an urgent text message. A group of us in Nigeria had decided to organise The International Lenin Centenary Conference to commemorate the January 21, 1924 passing of Vladimir Lenin, the man who led the first Socialist Revolution in the world. I asked if despite the very short notice of a few weeks, he could present the Keynote Address. Within hours, he sent me theme of his presentation: “Labour Aristocracy and the Denouement of Democratic Politics in Nigeria: Marxism-Leninism to the Rescue.”

Some months later, SIRA decided to organise an International Conference for the Eradication of Colonialism on Earth. The theme was: “The Forgotten Peoples: International Conference to Decolonize the World.” We zeroed in on Professor Ibrahim Gambari, last Chair, UN Special Committee Against Apartheid and former UN Special Envoy to Cyprus, Zimbabwe and Myanmar. To secure the consent of the quite busy international envoy, Prof Yaqub led a delegation to Prof Gambari. 

Prof was a very active advocate of various causes, including those for the total independence of Western Sahara and, the lifting of the six-decade embargo against Cuba by the United States. I recall that in 2019, the Nigerian Movement of Solidarity with Cuba had a public campaign for Cuba in the Nasarawa State University, Keffi. Prof drove there to express his solidarity. He just could not stand by and watch people suffer.

In 1992, a young public servant, Olusola Magbadelo, based on the perspective of the ‘Home-grown Democratization Theory’ presented a paper on the Transition Programme of the Babangida regime. It was at the International Political Science Association Conference. He got jeers and condemnation, left the hall head bowed with a sense of dejection.

It was in that state of despair, someone approached him outside the hall, commended him for the bravery he displayed and enquired why he was not in a doctoral programme. That was how he met Yaqub.

“In 2024, that is 15 years after he had left UNIABUJA, a professor pasted on the Professors WhatsApp page, a photograph he took with Yaqub; what followed was an avalanche of testimonies highlighting his humanness, commitment to merit, mentorship and sense of social justice”

Magbadelo told him that he was shortlisted for the 1994/1995 Commonwealth scholarship to support his PhD programme in Canada. Yaqub advised him to start the doctoral programme locally while awaiting the Commonwealth scholarship. Yaqub who was then the Head of Political Science, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, obtained the institution’s postgraduate form and sent it to Magbadelo. The latter was admitted into Danfodio in 1994. Shortly afterwards, the Commonwealth Scholarship programme for Nigerian scholars was cancelled as Canada pulled out of Nigeria in protest against the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election and, the 1995 execution of environmentalist, Ken Saro-Wiwa. So, Yaqub’s advice and action turned out to be providential. As his main supervisor, he helped Magbadelo secure the research grant to support his comparative study of the democratisation processes in Nigeria and South Korea. When the latter’s workload in the civil service from 1998 made him to abandon the PhD programme, Yaqub, whenever he was in Abuja, ensured he met Magbadelo to pressure him to resume his PhD programme. When he eventually did, Yaqub and his family hosted his student whenever he was in Sokoto and arranged accommodation for him in the University Guest House. These acts enabled Magbadelo to complete his Political Science doctoral programme in 2001.  

When Yaqub was UNIABUJA Vice Chancellor, Professors Ohaire and Aliyu Hussaini who were travelling to attend the College of Education, Okene, convocation ceremony, died in a motor accident. Yaqub did not only ensure befitting funeral rites, but also offered jobs to the families of the academics.

In 2024, that is 15 years after he had left UNIABUJA, a professor pasted on the Professors WhatsApp page, a photograph he took with Yaqub. What followed was an avalanche of testimonies highlighting his humanness, commitment to merit, mentorship and sense of social justice.

On Monday, December 2, 2024 I was with Yaqub at the 70th Birthday programme of Professor Jibrin ‘Jibo’ Ibrahim. We agreed to meet to update ourselves on events. He was also active in at least three other programmes leading to the New Year. So, nothing prepared me for the shock on Saturday, January 4, 2025 that he had marched on.

At his January 11, 2024 Fidau prayer, the crowds gathered. The diplomats included the 74th United Nations General Assembly President, Tijjani Muhammad- Bande; Cuban Ambassador Miriam Morales Palmero and Western Sahara First Secretary Hamahu-Allah Mohamed. The political class included former Education Minister, Professor Tunde Adeniran, former Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu and two Commissioners representing Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo. Also present was prolific author, Dr Buka Usman and trade unionists Chris Uyot, Hauwa Mustapha and Denja Yaqub. Civil Society leaders included Mma Odi. The Amilcar Cabral Ideological School sent a three-person delegation. Academics expectedly thronged the venue. They included Professors Adele Jinadu, Bolade Eyinla and Jibrin Ibrahim. The SIRA family included Professor Warisu Alli and Rear Admiral Anthony Isa, who gave the vote of thanks.

Professor Abubakar Suleiman, Director General of the National Institute of Legislative and Democratic Studies, said Yaqub had so much humility that even when he wanted to minute to a messenger, he would begin with the word ‘Please’.

In response to the messages of appreciation heaped on him by UNIABUJA professors, Professor Yaqub had responded in October, 2024: “My obsession in this earthly world is to beseech God not to allow me to fall below the high estimation that each of THESE MY COLLEAGUES have bestowed upon me. God, kindly allow me to come back to You in the Hereafter in this blaze of integrity and performance quotients that my colleagues have heaped on me.”

Nollywood actor Adeniyi Johnson has shared the emotional journey of waiting a decade to welcome his first children, a set of twins, with his wife, Oluwaseyi Edun.

In a recent interview with fellow actor Kunle Afod, the 46-year-old revealed that his journey to fatherhood spanned two marriages. He explained that he waited three years for a child during his previous marriage before the relationship ended. 

Adeniyi began dating Oluwaseyi in 2016 and the couple tied the knot in 2018. Together, they spent seven years praying and engaging in religious activities while holding onto hope for a child. 

Their perseverance was rewarded in February 2023 when they welcomed their twins.

Reflecting on the experience, Adeniyi credited his faith and patience for helping him through the challenging period, adding that the long wait made the eventual blessing even more meaningful. 

“The vigil was much. But we thank God that what one has been crying over God turned it into joy. It is a cry of 10 years. I waited for 10 years. Myself and the mother of the twins have been seeking God’s face for a child for seven years. And when it came, God said he wanted to gift me with twins. What do I do?” he said.

“Whenever I am at home, and I see them climbing on top of me, I am always very happy. I would say thank you, God. Other people buy diapers for one child for us we buy two. We bless God for provision. They also eat well.

“We did not allow age to tell on us. And we thank God we do not look like what we have passed through.”

[Vanguard]

An inquest into the 2018 helicopter crash that killed the owner of Leicester City Football Club opened on Monday.

Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha and four others were killed when the Thai billionaire’s personal helicopter crashed shortly after taking off from the Premier League club’s King Power Stadium following a match in October 2018.

Catherine Mason, the coroner presiding over the hearing, told the jury that under English law the role of an inquest is simply to determine the facts over how someone died rather than make rulings on individual guilt or innocence.

“An inquest hears evidence so the jury can make findings of fact and come to a conclusion about the deaths,” said Mason, sitting at Leicester City Hall. “Nobody is on trial here.

“An inquest does not decide matters of criminal or civil liability,” added Mason, who also said the hearing was expected to last for between two and three weeks.

In a tribute read to the court by the lawyer for the family of Srivaddhanaprabha, he was described as “a good man with a good heart”.

The family statement also paid tribute to his role in reviving Leicester’s fortunes and bankrolling their shock Premier League title triumph in 2016 after the Midlands club were 5,000/1 rank outsiders to be crowned champions of England at the start of that season.

“Khun Vichai had a vision to the put the club in the Premier League. He wanted to build the club up, not just run it.

“With his support and commitment the team won the Premier League in 2016 — in only their second year in the division.

“We miss him every day. The pain his death caused and continues to cause our family is immeasurable.”

In a separate development, the family announced last week they had launched a £2.15 billion ($2.63 billion) legal action against the manufacturers of the helicopter, in what is reported to be the largest fatal accident claim in English history.

AFP