The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Illegal mining: Reps C’ttee summon minister, DG mining cadastre, others 

    Illegal mining: Reps C’ttee summon minister, DG mining cadastre, others 

    As part of its investigation into the activities of illegal miners in the country, the House of Representatives on Wednesday summoned the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake and the Director-General of the Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office to appear before it to give insight into the nefarious activities of some persons. 

    Chairman of the House Adhoc Committee on Mineral Exploitation, Security and Anti-Money Laundering Sanni Egidi Abdulraheem gave the directive at the resumed seating of the Committee on Wednesday.

    He regretted that, “Inspite of the friendly approach to some MDAs, the two governments organisations that are central to this exercise: Ministry of Solid Minerals and the Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office has not give much desired willingness to receive the Committee.

    He said, “However, the Committee has directed the Secretariat to write the minister and DG of Nigeria Mining Cadastre to appear before the Committee on a scheduled dates for each of the two organisations, if possible with EFCC and other anti-graft agencies”.

    He said Committee will as part of its work plan, pay working visits to all MDAs covered by its mandate; physically inspect all mineral exploitation centres; invite a number of selected MDAs and put its findings to report back to the House.

    The Committee Chairman informed that, the Committee was mandated to among other things, “conduct a comprehensive investigation into the scale, patterns, actors and modalities of illegal mineral exploitation across the Federation, with a view to identifying causes, consequences and extent of associated revenue.

    ‎READ ALSO; Emir of Ilorin condemns Eruku Church attack

    “Examine the operational roles, effectiveness and challenges of security agencies deployed to mineral-bearing areas-particularly the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Defence Corps (NSCDC), Mining Marshals, and other relevant formations-and asses their capacity to secure mining sites and protect national assets.

    “Investigate the security implications of illegal Mining activities, including their links to Organised crime, communal conflicts, environmental degradation, and threats to national stability.

    “Undertake an appraisal of the legal and regulatory framework governing mineral exploitation in Nigeria, with a view to identifying gaps, overlaps and enforcement deficiencies and make recommendations for legislative amendments or new enactments where necessary.

    “Probe the financial flows associated with illegal mineral extraction, including mechanisms through which proceeds are laundered, concealed or transferred and identify roles of individuals, networks and institutions in facilitating such illicit transactions.

    “Interfere with relevant agencies-including the Ministry of Solid Minerals, Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Security Agencies, State governments, traditional institutions, and licenced mining operators-to obtain submissions, documents, data and expert opinions.

    “Assess the adequacyof current Anti-Money Laundering measures within the solid minerals sector and recommend strengthened oversight mechanisms, compliance standards,and enforcement actions to curb illicit financial flows.

    “Recommend strategies to block revenue Leakages, enhance transparency in mineral value chains and ensure that, the exploitation of mineral resources contributes maximally and legitimately to national development.

    “Conduct public hearings and stakeholders engagements to gather evidence, facilitate transparency, and build national consensus on measures to address illegal Mining and it’s attendant security and financial risks.

    “Submit a detailed report to the House within the stipulated time frame, containing findings, conclusions, and actionable recommendations for legislative, policy, administrative and security interventions.

    “Perform any other functions as may be assigned by the House in furtherance of this mandate”.

  • Nigerian entrepreneurs launch Route25.55 to showcase African luxury fashion in Dubai

    Nigerian entrepreneurs launch Route25.55 to showcase African luxury fashion in Dubai

    Two Nigerian professionals with thriving careers in luxury marketing and global event production have unveiled a new fashion platform designed to elevate African luxury designers on the international stage, starting with Dubai.

    The founders, Kike Tewe and Kehinde Otitoju—daughter of Sir Kayode Otitoju, a former Commissioner for Information in Ekiti State, said their brand, Route25.55, was inspired by a shared passion for promoting high-end Sub-Saharan African fashion and addressing longstanding barriers that have limited its global visibility.

    Unlike traditional pop-up stores, Route25.55 functions as an “experiential concept space,” immersing visitors in a multisensory journey through African culture, from fashion and textures to scents, sounds, and tastes.

    “We want people to feel Africa, not just view it on racks. Our goal is to bring the continent’s creativity to life in a memorable and multisensory way,” Otitoju said.

    The initiative launches at a time when African fashion continues to gain global traction. The recent appearance of Grammy-winning singer and style icon Ciara on the runway at Lagos Fashion Week further amplified global interest.

    “That moment showed the world that African fashion is not just emerging; it is here. We felt it was the perfect time to introduce Route25.55,” Tewe noted.

    ‎READ ALSO; Emir of Ilorin condemns Eruku Church attack

    Beyond celebrating culture, the platform aims to tackle practical challenges faced by African designers trying to enter global retail markets—especially high shipping costs that often rival the price of garments, and the limited African presence in major luxury retail spaces across the UAE, including Bloomingdale’s and Galeries Lafayette.

    Route25.55 seeks to bridge this gap by bringing African luxury closer to Dubai consumers while offering designers access to one of the world’s most vibrant fashion hubs.

    The founders say they are eager to foster deeper conversations around African creativity, global retail equity, and cultural exchange, and have expressed interest in speaking with Arise News for a feature or interview.

    “It would be an honour to share how Route25.55 is connecting cultures and opening new pathways for African fashion on the global stage,” Otitoju said.

  • Firm employs 1,000 Ondo youths to secure waterways

    Firm employs 1,000 Ondo youths to secure waterways

    The Gallery Security Service, a private security organisation, has said it has engaged no fewer than 1,000 youths across Ondo State to provide surveillance and security along waterways and coastal communities in the state. 

    General Manager of the firm, Mr. Anthony Onyeisue disclosed this on Wednesday during the organisation’s 13th anniversary celebration in Agadagba Obon, Ese Odo Local Government Area of the state.

    Onyeisue explained that the recruitment drive was part of the company’s efforts to curb criminal activities in riverine areas and provide meaningful employment to young people. 

    According to him, youth empowerment remains central to Gallery’s crime-reduction strategy.

    “Youth unemployment remains a major challenge everywhere in the country, and to address this, we have employed over 1,000 personnel, providing jobs and keeping young people away from criminal activities,” he said.

    ‎READ ALSO; Emir of Ilorin condemns Eruku Church attack

    He noted that the company works closely with conventional security agencies, including the police and the military, even though it does not possess prosecutorial powers or access to military-grade equipment.

    “We are restricted from using equipment such as drones, but our partnership with the military allows us to draw on their capabilities. We use everyday devices like mobile phones and walkie-talkies effectively,” he added.

    The GM stated that the security outfit has assisted in the arrest of several criminals, who were handed over to the police for prosecution.

    “Any criminal we identify is handed over directly to the police. We do not keep statistics, but I can tell you that a good number of those arrested are in various correctional centres, including Olokuta,” he said.

    Onyeisue emphasised that Gallery Security Service operates strictly under the regulations of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), mirroring the national community-policing model.

    He also revealed that the organisation’s operations extend beyond Ondo state.

    “We have an agreement with the Ondo state government to manage its waterways, which serve as a gateway to the Niger Delta and Lagos. 

    “Although our headquarters is in Ondo, we operate in Lagos, Akure, Benin, and other parts of the country. Once accredited by the NSCDC, we can operate anywhere in Nigeria, and we are working toward building a global brand,” he said.

  • National intellectual property policy and strategy: Key stakeholders’ involvement and economic gain

    National intellectual property policy and strategy: Key stakeholders’ involvement and economic gain

    By Olalekan O. Akinwumi

    The issue of the Federal Executive Council accepting the National Intellectual Property Policy and Strategy (NIPPS), is a turning point in the quest by Nigeria to become a knowledge based economy. Traditionally, IP in Nigeria has been a legal tool that is mostly used to safeguard creative works, as well as industrial innovation. IP is now being re-packaged with the support of FEC as a strategic economic asset, which will be able to attract investment, open credit doors, expand capital markets, and form the global competitiveness in the creative and digital economy of Nigeria.

    Now that the policy has come to stay, there is a need to begin to analyze its economic implications on one hand, and, the operational role of government agencies, financial institutions, and insurers in the new IP-based economy.

    Intangible assets, software, copyrights, GI, patents, data, and design rights, which are strengthened towards an Intangible Asset Economy, take up more than 80 percent of corporate value in developed economies.

    Nigeria has been functioning below this rate because there are disjointed registries, poor enforcement, low valuation skills, and low use of IP assets by the financial sector. The fact that the FEC has approved it is an indication that the country is willing to streamline this landscape. A single policy framework has given government institutions an obligation to incorporate IP in economic planning, industrial policy, export strategy, and as well as capital formation.

    Economic Implications are immeasurable; growth of access to credit using IP-backed lending. The most direct economic effect is through allowing access to credit by micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by intangible collateral. Technology, pharmaceuticals, and FMCG, as well as digital services and entertainment, are the main industries where IP is the most valuable asset. The policy: enhances the validation of IP as security; requires the increased effectiveness of registration and verification platforms; offers regulatory guidance to banks, DFIs, and fintech lenders.

    With the incorporation of IP into the National Collateral Registry and the lending policies of CBN, Nigeria can open up new avenues of credit to the businesses that do not qualify as assets in the conventional asset-backed lending. This increases the liquidity, stimulates creativity and increases the survival rates of MSMEs.

    Capital Market Development through IP Securitisation: The policy offers a structural basis of the securitisation of royalty streams, licensing revenues, and other IPR-related cash flows. In developed markets, the IP securitisation is used to finance films, music catalogues, pharmaceutical rights, and software licenses. The capital market of Nigeria will have three advantages it:

    Non-traditional instrumentation of investable assets. 

    These are new monetization methods of creatives, tech founders, and brands. Greater liquidity in the market via specialised SPVs and asset-backed securities. SEC’s control over these instruments will enable them to draw pension funds, private equity, insurance companies, and DFIs that want to have long-term assets with yields.

    Enhanced Foreign Investment and Technology Transfer: Enforcement of IP protection, increases investor confidence, decreases legal risk, and facilitates joint ventures, licensing relationships, and the exchange of technology across borders. With multinational companies, the understanding of the ownership of IP, the enforcement of the same, and commercialisation is a requirement before conducting business in high-risk jurisdictions. The policy puts Nigeria as a more reliable choice of creative and technology based FDI.

    Positive Impact on Employment and Innovation: Better IP governance is the practice that promotes innovation in universities, research institutes, technology hubs, and manufacturing. It encourages the creation of jobs in knowledge in: software engineering, digital media production, branding and marketing, industrial design, legal, and valuation services.

    This grows the non-oil GDP and has a spillover effect on export competitiveness.

    Importance of Major Government Agencies FMITI and NIPO (IP Registries).

    These bodies are mandated with the role of digitising, modernising, and harmonising the Trademarks, Patents and Designs Registry. They are their economic deliverables: the rapid verification of ownership; the enhancement of the quality of data; the automation of the banks and insurers; and the decrease in the time of registration.

    Effective registries lower the transaction costs and raise the bank’s confidence in treating IP as collateral. The IP finance is anchored on the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). It has the responsibility of issuing regulatory acknowledgement of IP as qualified collateral; revising prudential principles of risk evaluation of intangible assets, instructing banks to frame IP lending models; and partnering with Direct Foreign Investments (DFI) to finance pilot lending schemes. The presence of CBN will make sure that the policy is translated into the adoption stage in the financial sector.

    Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). To ensure securitisation takes root, the SEC will:

    Implement disclosure, valuation, and investor protection rules; authorize SPV structures of IP-backed securities; facilitate market ready IP instruments.

    This increases IP to the balance sheets of corporations to the mainstream investment portfolios.

    The Ministry of Justice and Judiciary, Enforcement is the main pillar of any IP economy. They are supposed to take the following responsibilities: reinforce IP courts or commercial divisions; speed up the process of dispute resolution; enhance anti-piracy activities in cooperation with other agencies, such as NCC and Customs. Enforcement is more effective and adds value to any IP asset and minimizes risk to investors.

    The financial Institutions, commercial banks, microfinance institutions, DFIs, and fintech lenders role will require: to create IP-based credit scoring models; to implement valuation-based underwriting policies; to work with certified IP valuers and insurers; to provide creative and tech enterprise lending products. The financial sector turns out to be the channel through which IP is transferred into working capital and investment capital.

    Function of the Insurance Sector: Insurance plays an important role in IP transaction de-risking. The policy generates demand for: IP enforcement insurance; infringement liability insurance; royalty-payment default insurance; securitised IP portfolio insurance. NAICOM needs to collaborate with the insurers and international reinsurers to develop local capacity. Well organised insurance products will stabilise IP-backed lending and draw in institutional investors.

    The adoption of the National IP Policy by FEC is a watershed move to the transformation of Nigeria to an intangible-asset economy. 

    The economic consequences of the policy are quite numerous: widens access to credit, a more developed capital market, increases investor confidence, improved innovations, and the appearance of new financial spheres of professional services. Nonetheless, the actual worth will become a reality when government agencies, financial institutions, and insurers are organized to conduct the implementation.

    When it is implemented in a disciplined and systematic manner, Nigeria will have the potential to open up billions of dollars in frozen IP value, improve creative and technological ecosystems, and emerge as a major hub of knowledge in Africa.

    Olalekan O. Akinwumi, Estate Surveyor and Valuer, a specialist in Intellectual Property (IP) Valuation and Securitization,, writes from Lagos.

  • Wike to SSDC: don’t disappoint Tinubu, focus on grassroot development

    Wike to SSDC: don’t disappoint Tinubu, focus on grassroot development

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Wednesday charged the newly constituted South-South Development Commission (SSDC) to focus on grassroots development in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

    Wike gave the charge when the board members and management team of the Commission, led by the Board Chairman, Hon. Chibudom Nwuche paid him a courtesy visit in his office.

    The Minister congratulated the Board members and Management Team on their appointments by President Tinubu, emphasizing that their selection was based on trust and magnanimity and urged them not to let the President down.

    The Minister said, “The only way you can justify your appointment and make the President happy is to work tirelessly to achieve the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President in your region. Your loyalty is to him. Make the President proud of the Commission”.

    He urged the members not to allow themselves to be used as tools of division by those opposed to the President’s vision for regional development, adding that the overall objective of the Commission is to bring development to the people of the South-South.

    “One thing that is paramount is your humble self. Are you willing to work for the development of your region? Are you willing to make sure that the vision and mission of Mr. President is being achieved?”, the Minister asked.

    ‎READ ALSO; Emir of Ilorin condemns Eruku Church attack

    Wike further delivered a strong admonition against the politicization of the Commission’s activities and the misuse of public funds, stressing that members must work together as a team and refrain from being used as a tool to cause division within the commission.

    Outlining clear guidelines for project execution, the Minister advised members of the Commission against abandoning their primary responsibility or diverting funds meant for development projects. 

    He urged them to ensure financial prudence, adding that they should only embark on projects that have financial backing.

    “Don’t award projects to satisfy selfish interests”, the Minister stressed.

    Noting the importance of stakeholder consultation, the Minister also advised members of the Commission to consult widely before deciding what project to execute in the different states of the region.

    He said, “Go to the Governors and ask them questions. Don’t duplicate projects that the local government or state is doing”.

    Wike, while stressing the need for courageous leadership, thanked President Tinubu for his wisdom and courage in establishing the regional commission to accelerate development.

    He said, “It’s not easy. I know what happens when several of these commissions were created. It takes courage and leadership for Mr President to have agreed to create a commission for the various regions.

    “No former President has done it before. Leadership without courage cannot achieve anything”, Wike stressed. 

    Speaking earlier, the Chairman, Board of the South-South Development Commission, Hon. Chibudom Nwuche, expressed profound gratitude to the FCT Minister for his pivotal support and role in the establishment of the Commission and the appointment of its members.

    Nwuche hailed the Minister’s leadership style, stating that the Board members were keen admirers of Wike’s “result-driven” approach and promised to emulate his style, particularly the timely execution of infrastructure projects.

    He assured the FCT Minister and President Tinubu of the Board’s total support and commitment to the development of the South-South region.

    The Managing Director of the Commission, Miss Usoro Akpabio, also affirmed this commitment, thanking the Minister for his support and pledged that the Commission will carry out its mandate diligently, towards bringing development to the South-South region.

  • Alleged Christian genocide: U.S. statements emboldened violent groups in Nigeria, Fed Govt warns

    Alleged Christian genocide: U.S. statements emboldened violent groups in Nigeria, Fed Govt warns

    …says no evidence of ‘Christian genocide’, urges stronger Nigeria–U.S. collaboration

    The federal government has cautioned that recent pronouncements from the United States on Nigeria’s security situation have inadvertently emboldened opportunistic violent groups, encouraging them to exploit international narratives and stage renewed attacks on soft targets.

    The warning was issued on Wednesday by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, during a press conference in Abuja, addressing the evolution of violent extremism, Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgency, North-West banditry, economic drivers of insecurity, and what he described as the need to clarify misleading claims of “Christian genocide” in Nigeria.

    Akume said insurgency structures had been significantly degraded before the latest wave of commentary from Washington, adding that such statements, though perhaps well-intentioned, had the unintended effect of emboldening extremist factions. 

    He stressed that what Nigeria needed from global partners, especially the United States, was collaboration through intelligence, technology and equipment, not public labels that distort the country’s security realities.

    The SGF firmly dismissed as inaccurate and dangerous the growing international rhetoric that Nigeria is witnessing a “Christian genocide.” 

    He said no credible international organisation had ever classified the crisis as genocide against any group.

    According to him, Boko Haram and ISWAP have historically attacked both churches and mosques, killing Christians, Muslims and traditionalists alike, while North-West bandits operate primarily as criminal enterprises with economic motivations rather than religious ones.

    “The current misrepresentation of the crisis as ‘genocide against Christians’ fuels religious tension, emboldens extremist and criminal factions seeking to exploit sectarian narratives, creates diplomatic friction, and undermines Nigeria’s longstanding efforts to build constructive international security partnerships,” he warned.

    Akume reiterated that Nigeria is a secular state whose constitution prohibits the adoption of any religion as a national faith, adding that President Bola Tinubu’s appointments reflect the nation’s diversity, with equal representation of Christians and Muslims in the Federal Executive Council and the National Security Council.

    The SGF also said President Tinubu is now doing what ought to have been done over the last twenty years by previous administrations for the good of all Nigerians.

    Providing a detailed historical context, Akume traced the insurgency to the ideological currents that shaped Boko Haram from 2002, through its radicalisation under Mohammed Yusuf, the mass-casualty era of Abubakar Shekau, and its transformation into ISWAP following its pledge of allegiance to ISIS in 2015.

    He also highlighted the role of the 2011 collapse of Libya and instability in Egypt, which opened trafficking corridors for extremist groups. 

    ‎READ ALSO; Emir of Ilorin condemns Eruku Church attack

    Weapons flowed through Al-Qaeda-linked AQIM routes into the Sahel and Nigeria, boosting the operational capacities of Boko Haram, ISWAP and later, armed banditry networks.

    On banditry in the North-West, the SGF said all credible analyses point to economic roots, including competition for land and water resources, cattle rustling, illegal mining of gold and other minerals, kidnapping-for-ransom, and extortion of rural communities.

    “These pressures, not religious motives, explain the persistence of violence in the North-West,” he said.

    Akume referenced the June 13–14 Yelewata attack in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, where over 100 people were killed, according to independent rights organisations. 

    He said President Tinubu immediately dispatched relief materials and ordered a census of destroyed homes and properties to facilitate reconstruction.

    Akume stressed that the Nigerian Armed Forces remain highly capable and have reclaimed vast territories once occupied by Boko Haram and ISWAP. 

    He said Nigeria does not require foreign combat troops but needs targeted intelligence, surveillance technology and advanced equipment to finish the job.

    “What is needed is partnership, not prescriptive statements,” he added.

    Outlining the government’s strategy, Akume said Nigeria will scale up nationwide operations, tighten intelligence-sharing with global allies, intensify efforts to dismantle illegal mining and trafficking networks, and strengthen rural security and border governance.

    He appealed to citizens across political, ethnic and religious lines to unite against violent extremism, saying “now is the time to speak with one strong and united voice to confront a common enemy and eradicate terrorists, bandits and insurgents from our national borders.”

    Akume reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening diplomatic ties with the United States on the basis of mutual respect, shared democratic values and a joint responsibility to enhance regional and global stability.

  • Reps vow to fix 17-year power sector failures, begin probe into govt investments

    Reps vow to fix 17-year power sector failures, begin probe into govt investments

    Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has said the House is determined to correct the longstanding failures that have plagued Nigeria’s electricity sector for 17 years, adding that lawmakers will conduct a comprehensive investigation into government investments in the industry.

    Speaking at the commencement of the probe into the nation’s power sector reform, Tajudeen expressed regret that the sector has faced persistent challenges that have hindered growth and hampered efficiency.

    He said the House has a constitutional duty to Nigerians to ensure that reforms aimed at improving service delivery, boosting capacity, and upgrading infrastructure move beyond policy documents and begin to deliver tangible results.

    According to him, “Electricity, as we all know it, is the lifeblood of modern civilization. No nation attains sustainable progress without reliable power supply. From our factories to our schools, our hospitals to our homes, electricity determines productivity, quality of life, and our collective economy.”

    “Regrettably, the Nigerian power sector has witnessed numerous challenges that have hindered its growth and efficiency. It is about time we looked into the reforms implemented over the past 17 years, to understand their successes and shortcomings, and to ensure that we pave a path that benefits all citizens”.

    ‎READ ALSO; Emir of Ilorin condemns Eruku Church attack

    He said further that “the establishment of this ad-hoc committee is not only timely and necessary; it is formed in recognition of our responsibility to the people as stipulated pursuant to the provisions of Section 88 and 89 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), and Order 20 Rule 7 of the Standing Orders of the House of Representatives which empowers the National Assembly to conduct investigations and inquiries into the conduct of affairs of government ministries, departments, and agencies.

    “As our constitutional duty of oversight, we owe it to Nigerians to ensure that the reforms intended to enhance service delivery, increase capacity, and improve infrastructure are not just on paper, but are effectively implemented and yielding the desired results. 

    “Therefore, we must ask ourselves: Have these reforms fulfilled their promises? Have they led to the expected improvements in service delivery? And most importantly, have they been executed with integrity and in the best interest of our citizens?

    ‘As we embark on this important journey, I urge all members of the committee to approach their duties with diligence, openness, and a commitment to the truth. Your work will be crucial in shaping the future of our power sector and, by extension, the policy formulation of the sector. I encourage you to engage with stakeholders, listen to the voices of the people, and be fearless in your pursuit of the truth.

    “In a broader context, it will be admirable if the outcome of this exercise spurs reliable and modern energy recommendations in line with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG)7 as the world is moving toward sustainable energy solutions. Our investigation should consider not only the historical context but also the future we envision for our power sector—one that is sustainable, innovative, and inclusive.”

    Chairmam of the ad-hoc committee, Arch. Ibrahim Almustapha Aliyu said the task before the committee is to conduct an Audit and Investigate Nigeria’s Power Sector Reforms and Expenditure from 2007 to 2024, assuring that they critically examination investments in the sector that has profound implications for our nation’s development.

    He said, “The journey of Nigeria’s power sector over the last two decades has been marked by ambitious goals, substantial investments, and, unfortunately, persistent challenges. The reforms introduced were intended to revitalize our energy landscape, spur economic growth, and improve the quality of life for all Nigerians. 

    “However, the reality on the ground tells a more complex story—one that requires thorough investigation and honest reflection.

    “Our mandate is clear: to conduct a comprehensive audit and investigation into the power sector’s reforms and expenditures during the period of 2007 to 2024, in line with Sections 88 and 89 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) which empower the National Assembly to investigate the conduct of public officers, agencies, and institutions entrusted with public funds, and to expose inefficiency, waste, or corruption in governance. 

    “We aim to trace the flow of funds, assess the implementation of policies, and evaluate the effectiveness of projects and initiatives undertaken during this period. This will not only illuminate areas of success but also identify and address systemic failures and inefficiencies that have hampered our progress. 

    “The task ahead of us is immense, and it necessitates a collaborative approach. We are committed to engaging with all relevant stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector actors, civil society, and the Nigerian public at large. 

    “Transparency, objectivity, and diligence will be the cornerstones of our proceedings.

    As we embark on this investigative hearing, let us be guided by an unwavering commitment to the truth. Our objective is not merely to identify problems but to propose actionable solutions that can drive genuine and sustainable improvements in our power sector. 

    “It is essential that we build a robust framework that safeguards public resources and delivers on the promises of improved power supply for every Nigerian”.

  • Why I want to play for Super Eagles, by Urhoghide

    Why I want to play for Super Eagles, by Urhoghide

    Winner of Player of the season in the Major League Soccer (MLS), Osaze Urhoghide, has opened up on why he wanted to play for the Super Eagles.

    The FC Dallas MLS defender said he was saddened that Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2026 world cup.

    He said he felt Nigerians disappointment at the country’s failure to qualify for the World Cup.

    Urhoghide noted that footballers who gave their best should be given a chance to lead the Super Eagles to victory in the Nations Cup.

    He said, “Winning the Defender of the Season award is a great honor, but it’s not just about individual accolades.

    “It’s about the team, and I’m proud to have been part of a successful season with FC Dallas. I’m looking forward to bringing that success next season or at the international level if invited.

    ‎READ ALSO; Emir of Ilorin condemns Eruku Church attack

    ‎When asked about his plans for the off-season, Urhoghide revealed that he intended to help Nigerians and engaged in charity work.

    “I want to give back to the community and inspire young Nigerian kids to pursue their dreams. Football is a powerful tool for social change, and I want to be part of it.”

    ‎Urhoghide’s impressive performances have earned him the Player of the Year award and recognition as the best defender for his club in the league.

  • Abiodun felicitates Alake of Egbaland on 20th coronation anniversary

    Abiodun felicitates Alake of Egbaland on 20th coronation anniversary

    Ogun state governor, Dapo Abiodun, has congratulated His Royal Majesty, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, Okukenu IV, the Alake and paramount ruler of Egbaland, on the occasion of his 20th coronation anniversary.

    Oba Gbadebo ascended the throne on November 19, 2005.

    Abiodun described the royal milestone as a celebration of two decades of purposeful, visionary and selfless leadership that has brought remarkable progress, unity, and dignity to Egbaland and Ogun State as a whole.

    The governor noted that Oba Gbadebo has, since ascending the exalted throne, demonstrated exceptional commitment to the peace, cultural preservation, and socio-economic advancement of his people. 

    He also noted that the monarch’s wisdom, statesmanship, and unwavering support for developmental initiatives had continued to inspire both traditional and contemporary governance structures across the state.

    ‎READ ALSO; Emir of Ilorin condemns Eruku Church attack

    “I join the government and good people of Ogun State in congratulating His Royal Majesty, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo (Okukenu IV), the Alake of Egbaland, on the momentous occasion of his 20th anniversary on the throne.

    “Since his coronation as the 10th Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland on November 19, 2005, Kabiyesi has continued to exemplify wisdom, dignity, and an unwavering commitment to the peace, unity, and development of Egbaland and Ogun State at large. His reign has been marked by remarkable strides in cultural preservation, community advancement, and the promotion of harmony among all people.

    “Kabiyesi’s reign has been characterized by grace, compassion, and an unrelenting pursuit of the welfare of his people. His role in fostering communal harmony and supporting our government’s development agenda remains invaluable. On behalf of the government and good people of Ogun State, I congratulate our revered royal father on this remarkable anniversary,” the Governor said.

    Governor Abiodun prayed that the Almighty would continue to grant the Alake sound health, long life, and greater wisdom to continue his noble service to Egbaland, Ogun State, and Nigeria.

    He wishes His Royal Majesty a memorable and impactful 20th coronation anniversary celebration.

  • Open rearing, gazing regulation law: Oyo Assembly engages stakeholders

    Open rearing, gazing regulation law: Oyo Assembly engages stakeholders

    The Oyo State House of Assembly has begun public hearing and stakeholders’ engagement on Post Legislative Scrutiny (PLS) inquiry on open rearing and grazing regulation law, 2019.

    The public hearing, which was in collaboration with Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD), involved various stakeholders including the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Oyo State Security Network (Amotekun), Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA), Ministry of Justice, Nigeria Custom Service, Nigeria Police Force,Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Civil Society Organization among others.

    It was held at the House of Chiefs, Secretariat, Ibadan on Wednesday.

    Declaring the public hearing opened, the Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, who was represented by his Deputy, Muhammed Fadeyi disclosed that with adoption of Post Legislative Scrutiny (PLS) by the state legislative arm of government, the Oyo State House of Assembly has broken another record.

    He established that the state House of Assembly has taken a step further in the business of lawmaking by adopting the PLS to discuss the functionality of the already passed laws by conducting PLS inquiry, which shortcomings and the level of compliance to determine for its amendment or repealing the law for stricter implementation.

    READ ALSO; Emir of Ilorin condemns Eruku Church attack

    The Speaker assured all stakeholders that all submitted memoranda will be considered and harmonized for necessary actions.

    In his welcome address, the House Majority Leader, who is also the Chairman of the Committee, Sanjo Adedoyin, said the aim of the public hearing is to brainstorm and receive ideas on modern legislative practice known as Post-Legislative Scrutiny (PLS).

    ‎He disclosed that the Oyo State’s Open Rearing and Grazing Regulation Law, 2019 is sought to bring order and sustainability to the very bedrock of the state’s economy and the complex relationship between the farming and herding communities.

    The Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Olasunkanmi Olaleye described the Oyo State Open Rearing and Grazing Regulation Law as a law that was borne out of visions. 

    He maintained that the law is still working in progress and that it is yet to get to its highest level.

    While emphasising that the law is not to witch-hunt anybody, rather it is to promote state economic and individual businesses, the Commissioner suggested that local government and traditional rulers should be involved in the operation of the law for effective implementation.

    The Chairperson, Oyo State Security Network (Amotekun), Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA), Justice Aderonke Aderemi (rtd), said the law is in existence to serve as a security measure to protect every individual irrespective of ethnic, religion or any other sentiment.

    She disclosed that the Open Rearing and Grazing Regulation Law, 2019 has reduced the recurring conflicts between farmers and herders, as well as environmental limitations.

    Justice Aderemi suggested increment in the amount of fines and jail terms for offenders, allocation of lands for creation of the agency’s offices across the 33 local government areas by the council chairmen and involvement of traditional rulers in the operation of the law.

    In their recommendation, Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) suggested proper education, increased awareness and information on the law to ensure that everyone is carried along before the implementation.

    They called for fairness, justice and involvement of local authorities including members of the Fulani community at the local level for accurate data collection and peaceful coexistence.

    Other stakeholders also submitted their memoranda which the Speaker assured them that they will be properly looked into and harmonised.