NOVA Merchant Bank Limited has appointed Mr. Adebowale Oyedeji as its new Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer.
Oyedeji’s appointment which takes effect from today, has been approved by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
Oyedeji succeds Nath Ude, whose tenure expired on November 6, last year.
Oyedeji has held several executive positions in Nigeria and abroad.
He was the MD/CEO of Guaranty Trust Bank UK (a subsidiary of Guaranty Trust Bank Group) between 2008 and 2011 and an Executive Director of Guaranty Trust Bank Group from 2011 to 2018. He was on the Board of Stanbic-IBTC as an Independent Non-Executive Director (INED) from 2020 to last year.
Oyedeji said: “I am honoured to be the pioneer Chief Executive Officer of the proposed NOVA Commercial Bank which is set to positively change the entire banking landscape.”
Chairman of NOVA Merchant Bank, Phillips Oduoza, said: “This appointment is a reinforcement of the bank’s belief that with the right people and leadership, using technology and innovation, the bank will compete favourably for market share in the commercial and retail banking space.
“The Board believes that Wale’s hands-on experience and communication skills combined with his strong leadership capabilities will help NOVA deliver improved execution and financial performance.”
Oyedeji is an alumnus of University of Ibadan where he bagged a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Economics. He also obtained his M. Sc degree in Financial Economics from University of London and Advanced Management Program (AMP) from Havard Business School (HBS). He is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (FCA) and Honorary member of Chartered Institute of Bankers (HCIB).
NOVA Merchant Bank Limited is an investment grade rated merchant bank in Nigeria which offers an integrated suite of financial solutions covering Wholesale Banking, Investment Banking, Asset Management, Securities Trading, Wealth Management, Trade Services, Transaction Banking, Cash Management and Digital Banking.
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has announced the restoration of passenger and freight trains as well as an increase in trips across the country.
Its Managing Director, Fidet Okhiria, said in Lagos: “We are going to increase the number of train trips to six on Lagos-Ibadan, Warri-Itakpe, and Abuja-Kaduna, which means the trips will be three times to and three times fro, making six trips in a day.
“The trips will commence before the second quarter of 2024. Right now, they are running four trips; two up and two down across the board.’’
“What is limiting us is the night operations, and that is not the way train should operate. The train is meant to operate at all times. People may like to travel in the evening, but because of the security situation in the country, we limit ourselves to the daytime.
“We intend to bring back passenger and freight trains from Port-Harcourt to Aba, Lagos to Kano and Kaduna because of the dry ports.”
According to him, the NRC experienced vandalism in the Warri-Itakpe area in 2023, but the problem was resolved two weeks later assuring that sabotaging of the rail tracks would be difficult while it was in use.
Okhiria predicted that when goods trains begin running across the nation, the price of commodities would drop significantly.
As indicated by the NRC boss, in the first quarter of 2024, the company will start offering passenger and freight train service between Port-Harcourt-Aba, Lagos, and Kano.
In addition to Funtua and Kaduna dry ports expressing interest in freight hauling, he said that Dala Dry Port has been requesting that NRC visit them and deliver cargo.
To shorten turnaround times and boost tax revenue for the government, Okhiria declared that the railway would collaborate with all of the nation’s dry ports.
According to him, NRC hired junior employees from levels four and six and was waiting on government approval to assign them.
“We hired the junior staff to improve operations,” he stated.
The NRC head also encouraged Nigerians to take an interest in rail travel even as he applauded government initiatives to link rail lines around the nation.
Sterling Bank Limited has appointed Mr. Olatunji Mayaki as its Chairman with effect from January 1, 2024.
This followed the resignation of Mr. Asue Ighodalo, on December 31, last year.
In a statement, the Company Secretary, Temitayo Adegoke, stated: “The resignation of our erstwhile chairman is in line with the best corporate governance practices as Mr. Ighodalo has offered himself for public service.”
Ms. Adegoke added: “Mr. Mayaki takes on the leadership of the Board to continue the progressive growth and lead the bank onto even greater success.”
Mayaki was as a non-executive director. He studied Law and had worked at Ajumogobia, Okeke, Aluko & Oyebode, among others.
He further served as the pioneer Vice President Legal & Compliance of ARM Limited, Country Head of Legal and Group Company Secretary for all Shell Petroleum companies in Nigeria, and Deputy Managing Director of Addax Petroleum Nigeria. He sits on the Governing Council of a Nigerian private university, Davidson, and a UK-based NGO and charitable organisation, Chestrad, from where he has championed the establishment of several programs in Nigeria to support health systems, social development, women and the girl child. An alumnus of the prestigious University of Ibadan, as well as Harvard and INSEAD business schools, Mayaki’s background in Law, Finance and Investment and overall career experience further strengthens the Bank’s dedication to strong corporate governance.
In recent times, Sterling Bank has enhanced its focus on innovation and digitization, introducing specialized products such as Specta, The Business Hub, OneBank, Qore, Edubanc, HealthBanc, and Omni X, tailored to the unique needs of the Nigerian market. Furthermore, the Bank has forged a partnership with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) to develop the real sector of the Nigerian economy with single-digit low-interest loans to SMEs, starting with a N5 billion scheme. Renowned for its now famous HEART of Sterling strategy; which focuses on investments in Health, Education, Agriculture, Renewable Energy and Transportation; the Bank featured on the prestigious top 100 fastest growing companies in Africa, as published by the globally recognised Financial Times all in 2023. With its optimism about Nigeria, irreverent brand voice and enviable talent management practices, Sterling has been the most recognised awardee of the Great Place To Work Institute over the last 5 years and was named earlier this year as the Overall Best Place To Work In Nigeria.
Dangote Refinery is awaiting the delivery of the fifth one million barrels of crude from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) as the build up to the six million barrels needed for the plant to commence its refining.
The company said NNPCL has delivered another one million barrels of crude oil to the refinery being the fourth fresh one million barrel of crude oil that has been supplied to the refinery in the last few weeks.
The refinery is scheduled to receive six million barrels of crude before the commencement of production.
In a statement, the company yesterday said: “Preparations are in top gear for the commencement of production in Dangote Refinery, as the petrochemical company has received the fourth crude shipment of one million barrels of bonny light crude supplied by the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), and expecting the fifth crude shipment, anytime from now.
“The fresh one million barrels of crude was the fourth consignment to be delivered to the Dangote facility out of the six million barrels of crude being expected by the world’s largest single-train refinery.”
The statement recalled that Dangote Refinery had earlier received three million barrels of crude.
According to the statement, the Managing Director of Dangote Ports Operations, Mr. Akin Omole, had then told reporters at the Dangote Quay, Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos that the Refinery will receive about four million crude shipment before the end of last year and the balance by early January 2024.
He said the crude supply would put the Refinery in good stead to take off.
The refinery said once the six million barrels were fully delivered, it will facilitate the initial run of the refinery as well as kick-start the production of diesel, aviation fuel, and LPG before subsequently progressing to the production of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
“This latest development will play a pivotal role in alleviating the fuel supply challenges faced by Nigeria as well as the West African countries.
Designed for 100% Nigerian crude with the flexibility to process other crudes, the 650,000 barrels per day Dangote Petroleum Refinery can process most African crude grades as well as Middle Eastern Arab Light and even US Light tight oil as well as crude from other countries.
Dangote Petroleum Refinery can meet 100 per cent of Nigeria’s requirement of all refined products, gasoline, diesel, kerosene, and aviation jet, and also has a surplus of each of these products for export.
The refinery was built to take crude through its two SPMs located 25 kilometres from the shore and to discharge petroleum products through three separate SPMs. In addition, the refinery can load 2,900 trucks a day at its truck-loading gantries.
Dangote Refinery has a self-sufficient marine facility with the ability to handle the largest vessel globally available. In addition, all products from the refinery will conform to Euro V specifications.
The refinery is designed to comply with US EPA, European Emission Norms, and Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) emission/effluent norms as well as African Refiners and Distribution Association (ARDA) standards.
While receiving the first consignment, Dangote said: “We are delighted to have reached this significant milestone. This is an important achievement for our country as it demonstrates our ability to develop and deliver large capital projects. Our focus over the coming months is to ramp up the refinery to its full capacity. I look forward to the next significant milestone when we deliver the first batch of products to the Nigerian market.”
The Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) has announced the appointment of Dr. Tayo Aduloju as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the NESG, effective from January 1, 2024.
Until his appointment, Aduloju was the Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Senior Fellow, Economic Policy, Strategy, and Competitiveness of the NESG.
With this appointment, Aduloju becomes the sixth Chief Executive Officer of the NESG.
Aduloju is a Nigerian scholar-practitioner, economist, policy entrepreneur, and strategist. In particular, he has contributed to reform initiatives in several socio-economic fields, including aviation, agriculture, finance, fiscal development, human resources, governance, performance management, investment promotion, maritime, transport policy, and public service reforms.
Prior to this appointment, Aduloju had worked as a policy advisor and held several appointments serving former Presidents Yar’Adua, Obasanjo and Buhari.
At various times, he had overseen the NESG’s network of national public-private leadership and conversation forums to advance the transformation of the economy for an inclusive, sustainable, and competitive place on the world stage.
Dr Aduloju is an Okun Economic Fellow for Africa and the Middle East, the Programme Director for the NESG High-Level Forum on Sustainable Development Goals, Chair of Country Illicit Financial Flows Mapping Group, Co-Chair of the Nigeria Open Government Partnership Poverty Eradication and Social Protection Technical Working Group and the Private Sector Advisor for the Presidential Taskforce on COVID-19.
He graduated with a Bachelor of Technology degree from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria and has earned five graduate degrees over time with a Masters in Data, Economics and Development Policy from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Master in Public Administration from Walden University, Masters in Business Administration from the Commonwealth University of Business Arts & Technology; Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Economic Policy and Public Administration, Rushmore University and Doctor of Business Administration (honoris causa) in Strategic Management from Commonwealth University of Business Arts & Technology.
Aduloju has, over the years, instructed aspiring corporate leaders in his lectures on how to approach societal change with a more involved and adaptable mentality.
His commentary on economic policy examines empirical evidence and applies pragmatism to discussing economic change in Nigerian print and internet media.
He has also previously served as the primary historian and archivist for creating the “In the National Interest” television documentary series, which explored the background and effects of the NESG. Incorporated in 1996, the Nigerian Economic Summit Group is a non-profit, non-partisan private sector organisation with a mandate to promote and champion the reform of the Nigerian Economy into a modern, globally competitive, sustainable, inclusive, and open economy.
Nigeria and the rest of West Africa are expected to experience significant decrease in the production in maize, sorghum, and millet this year.
According to the West Africa Regional Supply and Market Outlook, this is anticipated due to agroclimatic challenges, insecurity, and rising production costs.
United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs(OCHA ) coordinates the outlook.
The aggregate regional cereal production for 2023/24 is forecast to be about 76.5 million metric tonnes (MT), down by one per cent from the previous year.
Notable yearly declines in national cereal production are expected in Nigeria, Niger, Chad, and Mali.
However, the report said rice production would increase.
For most roots, tubers, and cash crops, the report noted that regional production prospects are optimistic.
While the structural rice import gaps would slightly narrow from approximately 8.5 million MT to 7.9 million MT, the outlook indicated that international imports into the region will be constrained by global trade restrictions, shipping costs, lower national exchange rates, and domestic policies.
The report observed that staple prices will remain. This is attributable to a combination of factors, including production deficits, trade restrictions, insecurity in the Sahel, elevated global prices, high transaction costs, and currency depreciation in the coastal countries of the Gulf of Guinea.
In additionally, the report said Nigeria’s annual inflation will continue to climb, exacerbated by the removal of fuel subsidies.
The report said prices are projected to stay above both average owing to the limited production performance, sustained demand, constrained humanitarian assistance, continuing trade disruptions, and security and socioeconomic challenges in the region.
• MDAs to provide monthly Budget Performance Report
• N28.78tr 2024 Appropriation Act to run concurrently with 2023 Extra Budget
Shape up or ship out – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday told any of his aides who will be a cog in the wheel of the implementation of this year’s Appropriation Act.
After signing the N28.78 trillion 2024 Appropriation Bill, Tinubu warned ministers and heads of agencies that those who would not aid effective implementation of the budget would be eased out.
Capital expenditure got N10 trillion out of the N28.27 Budget.
The President, who was in Lagos to celebrate Christmas and New Year, assented to the bill at the State House, shortly after returning to Abuja yesterday, a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, said.
Speaking at the signing of the bill, the President assured Nigerians that the implementation of the budget would be efficiently pursued and vigorously monitored.
The statement reads: “A budget is only as good as its implementation. We will implement this. I want to assure Nigerians that all the MDAs and our teams have been warned, that’s why we even take our time to separate Economic Planning from Finance.
“MDAs must have regular reports of the budgetary performance in the areas that we put in place to help ordinary Nigerians. The goal is to promote efficiency, dedication, and accountability. If you cannot do that, you may have to leave us to do the job on your behalf.
“All MDA’s have been directed to take responsibility and provide monthly Budget Performance Reports to the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, which in turn shall ensure the veracity of such.
“The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy shall hold regular reviews with the Economic Management Team and, in addition, I shall chair periodic Economic Coordination Council meetings.”
He lauded the National Assembly for burning the midnight oil to ensure the timely delivery of the scrutinised appropriation bill to maintain the January – December Budget Cycle.
The President added: “When I presented the budget on November 29, 2023, I presented N27.5 trillion and left the room; I called for expeditious treatment of the budget, the review, the passing, the debate and all that.
“Today, we have a budget of N28.7 trillion with an increase of N1.2 trillion over the proposal that I submitted.
“I thank the National Assembly for this prompt review, adjustment and auditing. This is evidence and a great testament to the excellent relationship between the executive and the legislature. We should keep it up.”
He went on to highlight both the focus and structure of the budget, which he said is aimed at giving hope to ordinary Nigerians.
Tinubu added: “In my address then, I remarked that the budget is a Budget of Renewed Hope. It is anchored on reducing the deficit and increasing capital expenditure, particularly in our priority areas.
“The 2024 Budget that we just approved achieves both objectives. It contains a very good increase in the capital side, a reduction in recurrent expenditure and it brought down the deficit from 6.11 per cent to 3.88 per cent. That, to me, is an achievement.
“When you pay attention to education, health and road infrastructure, you are resuscitating the economy and making sure that the ordinary people are carried along.
“One of the priority areas we just passed is the N100billion provision for the feeding of school children, which will encourage our school attendance and others.
“I’ll be meeting with local governments at sub-national levels so that we can collaborate and jointly bring an all-inclusive programme that will help.”
The top priorities in the budget are defence and internal security, job creation, macroeconomic stability, improved investment environment, human capital development, poverty reduction, and social security.
The President emphasised his commitment to enhancing investment promotion while creating a rules-based society that favours no individual over the law.
He said: “Funding the judiciary is a major element in our effort to support a just, rules-based society.
“Statutory transfer to the Judiciary has been increased from N165 billion to N342 billion.”
Speaking on how the budget will be funded, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, said the government plans to rely more on generated revenues than on borrowing.
He said: “The first thing to say is that it’s a lower budget deficit, so it’s a lower financing requirement and, as a percentage of GDP, the budget deficit is down from 6.1% to 3.8%.
“We’re relying less on borrowing and more on revenue and I think you have to take the two together. I think we’re very optimistic about the improvements in revenue that will take place.
“We are all ready, even from tomorrow, applying technology and digitalisation to ensure that the revenue that should come to government from all sources, including from government-owned enterprises, comes into the consolidated revenue fund and on the other side, we are bringing order to government borrowing.
“Ways and Means is being eliminated by taking the funding that is required from the market, as opposed to the printing of money by the Central Bank.
“That, in a nutshell, is what is happening on the financing side. We are very optimistic that not only will this budget be funded adequately, but it will be funded on a timely basis as well.”
Reacting to criticisms from some quarters that the National Assembly hastily passed the Appropriation Bill, the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Atiku Bagudu, said the budget went through a thorough process.
He, however, explained that the process was seamless this time around because all those involved in the process, from the President down the line, were experienced in the process.
The minister said: “There’s nothing like being in a hurry. This shows that people are on their toes. Mr. President had experience as a member of the National Assembly, he had experience as a governor and then luckily for us as a country, now he’s sitting atop the affairs as President.
“Equally, many members of his team; the Vice President, Chief of Staff, SGF, many ministers, the First Lady of the Federation, so, there has been a build-up of relationship between the National Assembly as it ought to be.
“Committees are supposed to be working, it’s not when you are passing a budget that committees should know the priorities of the relevant sectors.
“Mr. President, ever since he was sworn in, left no one in doubt that look, ‘I want you to respect institutions; as ministers, respect National Assembly’. They work well with the committees.
“The oversight is respected, we welcome interrogation. He said so publicly. Even before the budget process started full-stream, there was a good understanding of what the challenges are; what the priorities are, and therefore it’s easy to conclude as to what we should do, and that’s what we have done.”
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who addressed State House Correspondents after witnessing the signing, said the legislature will be working closely with the executive to monitor implementation, given the President’s earlier directive.
He said: “We have already enjoined all our committees to get to work. And that means the President has also pointed out that it’s good to have a monthly report from the ministers or the MDAs and any head of any agency or minister found wanting would have to find his way out of his administration.
“With that directive from the President, ours is to monitor what goes on to ensure that, indeed, it is one thing to do a budget; it is another thing for the budget to be fully implemented.”
He also defended the adjustment of the N27.5 trillion bill proposed last November to N28. 78 trillion, saying the lawmakers had “very verifiable justifications” to do what they did.
House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas told reporters that the 2024 Budget was not the only legislation assented to yesterday by the president.
Abbas said that Tinubu also signed the 2023 Supplementary Budget – which will now run until March 31. Another bill is on the securitisation of the controversial Ways and Means.
He explained: “Mr. President has signed two other bills. The first one is the supplementary appropriation bill of 2023, which he has agreed to extend by 90 days. So, it will continue to work concurrently with the 2024 budget up to March 31.
“He has also approved the 2023 main budget to concurrently operate with the capital component of the 2024 budget up to March 31.
“Another landmark achievement we had was also approving the securitisation of the ways and means that have effectively brought to an end these controversial means and ways of borrowing money. And he has assured Nigerians that this will be the last of this kind of ugly incident”, Abbas said.
At the signing ceremony were Akpabio, Abbas, Edun, Bagudu, National Security Adviser (NSA) Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila; National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje; Chairman of the Senate Appropriation Committee Senator Olamilekan Adeola and Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Appropriation Abubakar Bichi, and others.
The Police Command in Nasarawa State says it is investigating the abduction of Safiyanu Isa-Andaha, Chairman, Akwanga Local Government Area (LGA) of the state by gunmen.
DSP Ramhan Nansel, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the state, stated this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Lafia.
The PPRO said Umar Nadada, Commissioner of Police in the state, had mobilised personnel to go after the hoodlums and rescue the chairman and one other person who were kidnapped unhurt.
The police spokesperson said they got information that the chairman and one other were abducted around 8:30 p.m. in Ningo village of Akwanga LGA.
“The police in collaboration with other security agencies are currently on the trail of the kidnappers to ensure the release of the council chairman and the other victim.
Nansel therefore urged members of the public, especially people from villages in the area to provide the police with useful information that would lead to the rescue of those abducted and arrest of the perpetrators.
Also, Mr Haruna Kassimu, Special Adviser (SA) to Gov. Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and close associates of the LG boss confirmed the incident.
The SA said the LG boss and one Adamu Custom were kidnapped at Ningo village of Akwanga around 8:30 p.m. on Monday.
On the occasion of former President Muhammadu Buhari‘s 81st birthday, The Nation sheds light on his post-retirement activities beyond the Villa. AUGUSTINE OKEZIE, during a visit to Dumurkli-Maidua in Daura local government area, provides insights into the ‘other lives’ of the celebrated leader.
Dumurkli: Ex-President’s village of birth
Few Nigerians are aware that former President Muhammadu Buhari was born in Dumurkuli village, also known as Soho Birni, meaning old village. Situated about 3km from Buhari’s current residence in Daura and approximately 5km from the last village on the Nigeria-Niger Border, Dumurkuli is a tranquil roadside village in Maidua Local Government Area. Notably, this LGA serves as a border region between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Niger Republic.
The monarch of Maingwa Maitasu Dumurkuli, Alhaji Mohammed Tasiru, shared with The Nation during an interview in his palace that Muhammadu Bapari, the father of Buhari, migrated from Niger Republic and settled in Dumurkuli Village, where the former President was born. The monarch revealed that the village was originally inhabited predominantly by herders who migrated from the neighbouring borders. It was from Dumurkuli that the former President later moved to Daura, where he embarked on his military career and political journey.
Describing the former President as a people’s advocate, the monarch highlighted the positive impact of Buhari’s influence, noting that the village has witnessed significant development and infrastructure. Buhari’s love for the people, as articulated by the monarch, has contributed to the growth and progress experienced by Dumurkuli village.
He said: “Buhari was born in this village, he is our son, and he is a lover of the people. We have witnessed several developments, hospitals, good primary and secondary schools, mosques, electricity, security, water supply and so many other good things of life. Our major challenge now is unemployment; the youth are loitering because of lack of jobs. I have seven children that are still unemployed after graduation. We keep praying for Muhammadu Buhari so that God will give him longer years.
“Again, I am begging the government and our son to help rebuild my palace; the roofs are leaking. I have to battle with rainfall every night using plate and zinc to shield myself from being drenched by rain.”
Meanwhile, The Nation can confirm that the village is rapidly being transformed into modern town with growing infrastructure and presence of different arms of the security agencies, including the 171 Brigade, Customs and Immigration, and so on.
Buhari in the eyes of Dumurkli villagers
To the people of Dumurkuli Village, Buhari is likened to as a demi-god, a man of the people and a hero. The situation which aptly describes why the former President has repeatedly been voted for in every electoral contest held in the zone. Unlike other zones in the state, Buhari hardly stays away from the village of his birth, particularly during prayer times.
Manir Abdulkadir, a civil servant and a native of Dumurkli Village, affirmed the sterling qualities and integrity in the conduct of the former President. However, he regrets that the villagers hardly have rare opportunities of seeing him regularly as often as they might have desired.
He said: “The most times Buhari visits is mainly the time he comes here for prayers, during the Friday mosques usually held in the magnificent mosque that was built in this place, but then as you can see, our village is fast developing, thanks to Buhari.”
A motorcyclist, Mohammed Usman, who took the reporter to the Maiangwa’s palace corroborated Manir’s assertion about Buhari. Meanwhile, The Nation can confirm that the village is rapidly being transformed into a modern town with growing infrastructure and presence of different arms of the security agencies, including the 171 Brigade, Customs, Immigration, and so on.
Majority of the people of Daura that interacted with The Nation, while admitting that the former President rarely comes out in the evening to mingle with the people because of protocol and security concerns, they however stated that the two major occasions when he usually comes out to mingle with the people namely: when he comes out for Friday mosques and whenever he is headed to his farms. While admitting that Buhari hailed from Dumurkli Village, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) to the Emir of Daura, Usman Ibrahim Yaro, however, stated that the ex-President only exercises street lives in Daura when headed to the Jumait Mosque or to his farm. He said: “Buhari rarely maintain street appearances except when he goes to the mosque, to his farm or when receiving visitors in his house in Daura, mainly due to strict security and protocols built around him. “When walking down to his farm, he usually acknowledges greetings from some passersby on the way. In his farm, he concentrates on livestock, grains and cattle. Buhari is highly prayerful. Again, he changes mosques frequently.”
The Chairman of Daura Coalition Group, Mohammed Saleh told The Nation that Buhari is extremely jovial, and loves receiving visitors, particularly youth groups and associations in his house in Daura. He said: “Buhari jokes a lot, he reminds you of your history, and he even knows your parents by merely looking at your face. We youths are often reminded of several things we have forgotten when we meet Buhari in his house in Daura. He is an embodiment of history. He usually points at us one after the other whenever we are in his house, saying you are from so, so family by looking at us in the face.”
Celebrating ex-President Buhari at 81
Born on December 17, 1942, Dumurkuli village near Daura in Katsina State, Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR) the former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is currently receiving several accolades from Nigerians, including current leaders. As the country extends warm wishes and heartfelt greetings, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on the significant contributions and leadership of this statesman. Former President Buhari’s life journey is said to have interwoven with Nigeria’s modern history. This milestone birthday offers an occasion to celebrate not only the President’s longevity but also his steadfast commitment to the benefit of Nigeria. Throughout his career, Buhari had navigated the complexities of governance with a focus on anti-corruption efforts, security and economic development.
Life outside Dumurkli and Daura
Since his exit from office, former President Buhari attended several functions within Katsina State, however a few of them will be considered here. Former President Buhari joined Katsina Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda at Othman Bn Fodio, Juma’at Mosque, Modoji to thank Almighty Allah for His blessings upon the state. In Katsina State, the 1st of August every year is set aside as ‘Yaumush-shukr’ (Thanksgiving Day) to thank Almighty Allah for the innumerable blessings that He has bestowed upon the state. Besides, August 1st is a very significant day in the history of Katsina State being that it is the day that the two emirates of Katsina and Daura were brought under one province.
At the thanksgiving service, Governor Radda stressed the need to always thank Almighty Allah for His numerous blessings, considering the natural resources, agricultural landscape and the quality of people he has bestowed on the state. The Katsina Annual Thanksgiving Service was initiated in 2019 by the immediate past administration of Aminu Bello Masari.
Former President Buhari in Maiduguri served as the ‘wali’ (groom’s representative) who received the wife of Mohammed Babagana Zulum, eldest son of Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum. The wedding Fatiha took place at the Maiduguri Central Mosque around the palace of the Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Al-Amin Elkanemi. The wedding was attended by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, governors of Kwara, Gombe, Yobe, Ogun, Niger, Ogun, Bauchi, Abia, Lagos and Katsina states, National Security Adviser Malam Nuhu Ribadu, former governors of Borno, Maina Ma’aji Lawan and Ali Modu Sheriff, traditional rulers from within and outside Borno State, among other dignitaries. Performing religious rites, former President Buhari asked for the bride’s hand (Ummi Kaltum) on behalf of Zulum’s son and thereafter handed the dowry to a representative of the bride. The Chief Imam of Borno State, Imam Zanna Laisu officiated the wedding.
Katsina celebrates Buhari at 81
Meanwhile, the people of Katsina State, led by Governor Malam Umar Dikko Radda have joined in celebrating the 81st birthday of former President Buhari. A press statement signed by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mohammed Kalau and made available to newsmen in Katsina said the governor recognised the former President as a leader of truth, justice and patriotism.
He said: “Governor Radda commends the enduring qualities that make former President Buhari an iconic figure, his unwavering commitment to honesty, fairness, and deep love for the country. The Governor expresses his sincere hope for the former President’s continued good health and happiness on this momentous occasion. As Katsina State joins in celebrating this milestone, the Governor reflects on the positive impact of former President Buhari’s leadership, acknowledging the significance of his contributions to the development and well-being of the country.”
Buhari hosts ex-ministers in Daura
Former President Buhari was surprised on his 81st birthday when several of his former cabinet members paid him an unexpected visit at his residence in Daura, Katsina State. Led by Boss Mustapha, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the visit aimed at extending birthday wishes and prayers for the ex-President. Buhari, who was visibly surprised and grateful, thanked his former cabinet members for taking their time to travel all the way to pay him such a visit on his birthday.
Boss Mustapha, in a brief speech, praised Buhari’s unwavering leadership and described him as an incorruptible and exemplary figure in Nigeria’s history.
“Your Excellency, sir, joining other cabinet members, we have come to pay a special homage on the occasion of your birthday. You are an incorruptible and exemplary leader. May the Almighty Allah bless you for all your efforts and service to our great country. You have certainly earned your place in history. Thank you for your exceptional leadership and dedication. May the Almighty Allah bless you for all your efforts and service to our great country,” he said.
The cabinet members included: Abubakar Malami, Mu’azu Jaji Sambo, Suleiman H. Adamu, Prof. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, and others, who showered prayers upon him; wishing him good health and divine protection for him and his household. Mustapha highlighted Buhari’s invaluable contributions to the country and expressed joy at seeing the former President in a relaxed and healthy state. He said: “President Muhammadu Buhari’s contribution to the development of our great country, especially in infrastructure development and securing our maritime waters against piracy, will not be forgotten in a hurry. He was an incorruptible leader and father of the country indeed.” He prayed that the Almighty Allah would sustain Baba Buhari in good health, grace and fruitful life.
Many governors’ whose election are being challenged will know their fate this year as the supreme court decides the pending petitions. Deputy News Editor JOSEPH JIBUEZE, Assistant Editor ERIC IKHILAE, ADEBISI ONANUGA and ROBERT EGBE highlight major cases to look forward to. They also spoke to lawyers about their expectations.
Some senior lawyers have identified areas the Judiciary must improve on in 2024.
It is a year the Supreme Court will, for the first time in decades, have the full compliment of 21 Justices as provided for in Section 230(2) of the Constitution.
It is hoped that the additional hands will help decongest the dockets.
The National Judicial Council (NJC) at its 104th meeting on December 5 and 6 recommended Justices Jummai Sankey, Chidiebere Uwa, Chioma Nwosu-Iheme, Haruna Tsammani, Moore Adumein, Obande Ogbuinya, Stephen Adah, Habeeb Abiru, Jamilu Tukur, Abubakar Umar and Mohammed Idris.
The Senate confirmed them on December 21, 2023.
The agenda
Lawyers hope that cases pending in various courts will be decided more quickly this year.
Former Secretary of the Body of Benchers, Seyi Sowemimo (SAN) urged the judiciary to address delays.
He also wants the mode of judges’ appointments reviewed.
Sowemimo said: “The delay in the administration of justice is the major problem that the judiciary faces and we need urgent reforms to tackle the problem.
“Further, the mode and criteria for the appointment of judges need to be addressed. Integrity issues will thereby be resolved.”
Frontline litigator Wahab Shittu (SAN) also set an agenda for the judiciary in 2024.
He said: “My agenda for the Judiciary in 2024 should appropriately be based on its core mission as an institution, its vision for the new year and its political and administrative will to co-opt remedial measures targeted at improving justice delivery in the country and exposing and punishing corrupt judicial officers who have desecrated their oath of office and put our collective prosperity as a nation in jeopardy.
“The Judiciary anywhere in the world is encumbered with the responsibility to protect constitutionally guaranteed rights and freedoms, uphold the rule of law, resolutely safeguard proper and equal application of the law and ensure that court verdicts are handed down by impartial, independent, ethical and competent judges.
“The vision of the judiciary should be to devote serious and sustained effort to realise a better, fair, accessible, timely and transparent judiciary.”
Shittu said: “The values instrumental to realising a fair administration of justice in 2024 embody principles of judicial autonomy and impartiality that must be replicated at an institutional level.
“Justice is characterised by judging each case on its own merits.
“The judiciary’s position as a final arbiter of disputes should be taken with considerable seriousness because of the implications for the country in the absence of this legitimate concern.
“It is, therefore, an entrustment by the Nigerian people on the institution to resolve frictions that impact the country as a whole and citizens individually.”
An accessible judiciary
Shittu said: “That justice is easily accessible to all, is a principled recognition that providing legal protection and upholding the rule of law, while eliminating hindrances to prompt and effective access to justice, are the true hallmarks of a judiciary that serves the nation.”
Embrace technology
“Embracing the use of new technologies for the digitisation of the court system should be on the table in 2024,” the law teacher said.
Timely justice
The SAN noted: “Timely justice implies expeditious, handling of disputes that result in reliable and predictable decisions based on precedents and distinguishable decisions based on fact-based distinctions.”
Transparent administration of justice
Shittu added: “Transparency in the administration of justice in Nigeria is based wholly on sound reasoning and application of the law based on the precedents.
“It is not based on strange interpretations of the law and judicial capitulation to political pressure and favour that essentially defeats decades of precedence and installs confusion in the jurisprudence of the nation.
“Where decisions can be followed because they abide by the law, they create sustainability in the system and ensure predictability.
“On the other hand, when decisions are characterised by judicial descent into the arena on behalf of one party in litigation, it erodes the fundamental principle of the rule of law, and subverts the hope for fairness, and transparency by the public.
“Parties should win transparently and should be seen to have so won and the other side should lose transparently as well.”
For Emeka Etiaba (SAN), 2023 was a defining year for the judiciary.
He said: “Nigerians have risen to condemn the performance of the judiciary, and this ugly tale has been fanned by numerous conflicting judgments of courts and, in particular, the Court of Appeal.
“The not-so-good rating of the judiciary cannot be blamed on lack of precedents but the inability of the justices to follow the precedents thereby jettisoning the principle of Stare Decisis.”
He said Nigerians expect a change in the performance of the judiciary.
“This can only come where the National Judicial Council (NJC) decides not only to sanction judges who are guilty of unprofessional conduct but also, judges who refuse to abide by precedents commended to them by counsel.
“Again, except the process of appointment of judges is made transparent and merit-based, the quality of decisions of the courts will not improve.
“On the issue of improvement of emoluments of judicial officers, I expect a marked improvement but I sincerely do not believe that such improvement will ensure elimination of corruption as corruption in the judiciary is borne out of greed and not hunger,” Etiaba said.
Cases, issues that will shape 2024
The Supreme Court is likely to only enjoy the pleasure of a full Bench until August 22, 2024, when the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Justice Olukayode Ariwoola is expected to retire.
Born on August 22, 1954, Justice Ariwoola will attain the retirement age of 70 years on August 22.
He assumed office on July 27 in an acting capacity. He was sworn in as the substantive CJN by former President Muhammadu Buhari on October 12, 2023, making him the 16th indigenous CJN.
Justice Ariwoola alluded to his impending retirement while speaking on November 27, 2023, at the special court session to mark the commencement of the Supreme Court’s 2023/2024 legal year.
He said: “Incidentally, this is the last legal year that I will be presiding over.”
Judgments in pending governorship disputes
The Supreme Court is expected to deliver judgments in some pending election cases on Cross River, Kano, Lagos, Nasarawa, and Plateau states, among others.
On December 19, a five-member panel, presided over by Justice John Okoro, scheduled a hearing for January 11 in the appeal by the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the last governorship election in Cross River State, Senator Sandy Ojang Onor.
In the appeal marked: SC/CV/1194/2023, Onor seeks to upturn the victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Bassey Edet Otu.
Also on the same day, the panel fixed a hearing for January 9 in two appeals over the governorship dispute in Plateau State.
The court also heard and reserved judgments in two appeals filed by Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, candidate of the Labour Party (LP) and his PDP counterpart, Azeez Adediran against the election of Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
On December 21, the apex court heard and reserved judgment in the appeals on the Kano election in which the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) returned Abba Yusuf of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) as the winner.
Yusuf seeks to upturn the November 17 judgment of the Court of Appeal, which affirmed the September 20 decision of the election tribunal voiding his victory in the March 18 election.
Nnamdi Kanu’s trial
On December 15, the Supreme Court reversed the October 13, 2022 decision of the Court of Appeal, Abuja acquitting Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
His trial before a Federal High Court in Abuja is expected to resume early this year.
Kanu is on trial for treasonable felony before Justice Binta Nyako, who on November 14, 2022, suspended further proceedings in the case indefinitely to await the outcome of the appeals.
Emefiele’s trial
Justice Olukayode Adeniyi of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) will on January 8 deliver judgment on a fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele.
Justice Adeniyi chose the date on December 11 after lawyers to the parties made their final submissions.
Emefiele is challenging his arrest and detention, which he claimed violated his rights and is claiming damages of N1 billion.
The Federal Government, the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and its Executive Chairman are the respondents.
On January 18, his trial is expected to resume on a five-count charge, marked: CR/577/2023, in which he is accused of “conferring corrupt advantage” contrary to Section 19 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act 2000
On November 22, Justice Hamza Muazu of the High Court of the FCT granted bail to Emefiele at N300 million with two sureties in like sum.
On November 28, the prosecution opened its case and called three witnesses – Shamsudeem Abulili, an official of the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), Remigious Ugwu, a Compliance Officer with Zenith Bank Plc and Oluwole Owoeye, who is a Deputy Director, Banking Services with CBN and former Secretary to Major Contract Tendering Committee (MCTC) of the apex bank.
They were also cross-examined, following which the judge adjourned till January 18 for continuation of trial.
Trial Abba Kyari and four others
The ongoing trial of the suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) in charge of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT), Abba Kyari and four other officers of the IRT is expected to resume before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Kyari, Sunday J. Ubua (an assistant commissioner of police), Bawa James (an assistant superintendent of police), Simon Agirgba (an inspector) and John Nuhu (an inspector) are on trial before Justice Emeka Nwite on charges relating to dealing in cocaine, among others.
The trial is being conducted behind closed doors.
Trial of terrorist negotiator Mamu
Another behind-closed-doors trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja is the one involving alleged terrorist negotiator, Tukur Mamu.
Mamu, who is before Justice Inyang Ekwo, was arraigned on March 21 by the Federal Government on a 10-count charge bordering on terrorism financing, and aiding terrorist operations in the country, among others.
He was said to have been nominated by the terrorists that attacked the Abuja-Kaduna bound train sometime in March 2022 in which scores were taken hostage.
The prosecution claimed that Mamu convinced the terrorists to discuss ransom payments with individual families of the hostages for his financial gain, instead of the Chief of Defence Staff Committee, set up by the Federal Government.
It added that investigations revealed that Mamu collected an aggregate sum of $420,000 from the families of the victims, as well as a million from another set of families of the train attack.
The defendant is also accused of exchanging voice note communications with one Baba Adamu, identified as a spokesperson of the notorious Boko Haram sect.
Mamu was alleged to have collected ransoms on behalf of the Boko Haram terrorists from families of hostages, confirmed the amount and facilitated the delivery of the same to the terrorists.
Ecobank vs Otudeko
Will this be the year Nigerians will see an end acrimonious dispute between Ecobank and businessman Obafunke Otudeko and his firms over a multi-million dollar debt?
The heated crisis has its roots in a 2012 facility that Anchorage Leisures Limited, Honeywell Flour Mills Plc and Siloam Global Services Limited secured from Oceanic Bank, which was subsequently acquired by Ecobank.
Anchorage Leisures Limited, Honeywell Flour Mills Plc and Siloam Global Services Limited are all owned by or connected to Otudeko.
Fourteen years later, the dispute has ballooned to an alleged N13.5 billion Supreme Court judgment debt claimed by Ecobank, a N72.2 billion Federal High Court judgment debt claimed by Honeywell, a libel case at the Lagos State High Court, another related case at the Federal High Court also in Lagos, among other cases.
A few months ago, it also threatened the stability of First Bank of Nigeria Holdings Plc following Ecobank’s opposition to the 4.7 billion shares bought by Otudeko’s Honeywell Group.
Naira Marley’s alleged cybercrime trial
This year should see the resolution of the alleged cybercrime-related trial of singer/rapper Azeez Fashola popularly known as Naira Marley at the Federal High Court in Lagos.
Last October, Fashola’s trial was disrupted following his arrest and arraignment by the police in connection with the death of his estranged one-time label signee, Oladimeji Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad.
The Mohbad-related proceedings meant Fashola could not honour his court date for the resumption of his already four-year prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at the Federal High Court.
According to the EFCC, Fashola committed the offences on different dates between November 26, 2018, and December 11, 2018, as well as May 10, 2019.
In the charge, the agency alleged that Naira Marley and one Raze (still at large), on or about December 11, 2018, conspired to use an Access card 42658840359191132 issued to persons other than him in furtherance of internet scams.
It was also alleged that Fashola and Raze on or about May 10, 2019, with intent to defraud, possessed a counterfeit card 4921819410257431 issued to oneyTimea Fedorne Tatar and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 33(9) of Cyber Crimes (Prohibition, Prevention etc) Act
He pleaded not guilty.
Fayose’s trial
Fourteen years after his re-arraignment for alleged fraud by the EFCC, former Ekiti State Governor and proponent of the “stomach infrastructure” political strategy, Ayodele Peter Fayose, is yet to shake off the monkey on his back.
Fayose is now on trial at the Federal High Court in Lagos for a related allegation, this time for allegedly laundering N4.6billion.
On November 30, 2023, the case resumed before Justice Chukwujeku Aneke.
The judge, following the end of the day’s proceedings, adjourned till January 26 for defence to cross-examine a witness.
The case has continued to grab the headlines following the many revelations of how, according to the EFCC, the cash was allegedly transported by helicopter after it was looted through the Office of the National Security Adviser.
Ajetunmobi couple’s alleged ponzi scheme
Two years after Bamishe Ajetunmobi and his wife Elizabeth were declared wanted by the police for an alleged N7.5 billion fraud, the husband got his day in court last July on Lagos.
Ajetunmobi was arraigned on a 12-count charge of alleged fraud by the Force Criminal Investigation Department (ForceCID Annex) Alagbon-Ikoyi, Lagos.
Justice Chukwuejekwu Aneke ordered that Ajetunmobi be kept in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Services (NCoS) pending the determination of charges filed by the police against him.
The judge’s order followed the defendant’s not-guilty plea.
According to the police, Ajetunmobi’s arraignment was not without some serious effort.
He was alleged to have been arrested in Côte d’Ivoire while trying to board a flight to the United Kingdom.
The case is expected to generate huge public interest this year because of the number and calibre of people – said to be in the hundreds – who fell victim to the alleged scam.
Dr Olaleye life imprisonment appeal
An Ikeja Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court last year sentenced Dr Femi Olaleye to double life imprisonment for defiling and sexually assaulting his wife’s niece.
In his appeal which will come for hearing this year, Dr Olaleye raised 35 issues for determination.
Olaleye accused the lower court of erring on all counts and is praying to be discharged and acquitted.
He claimed the court was wrong to hold that the victim was a child of 16 at the time of the offence.
He said the prosecution did not tender any documentary evidence in support of its case that the alleged victim of the crime was 16 years old.
He said the evidence concerning the age of the alleged victim of the crime was all hearsay evidence, which is prohibited in law.
N4.8b Ibeto case
Trial will commence on January 20 in the case of N4.8b against a businessman, Chief Cletus Ibeto over alleged N4.8b fraud.
The Lagos State government had last month taken over the case of the industrialist who was to be tried by the EFCC for an alleged N4.8b fraud.
The takeover was contained in a December 4 letter signed by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Dr. Babajide Martins and forwarded to Justice Oyindamola Ogala of the Lagos State High Court sitting at Ikeja.
It notified the court of the decision of the state government to take over the case marked: ID/2149C/2023.
Ibeto’s lawyers had petitioned the state government after the court, on November 3, issued a bench warrant against him for non-appearance in a 10-count charge of fraud.
The lawyers, under the aegis of the International Human Rights Protection Initiative (INHURPI), had urged the anti-graft agency to review its position on the matter which they said involved a land dispute.
Mohbad’s inquest
On September 12, Nigerian pop star, Ilerioluwa Aloba a.ka MohBad died in Lagos, aged 27.
His death threw up controversies and protests, with his fans demanding justice.
The Lagos State Police Command invited Ms Feyisayo Ogedengbe, an auxiliary nurse, as well as Naira Marley, Sam Larry, Primeboy and others in the course of the investigation.
The Lagos State government set up a coroner inquest under Magistrate Adetayo Shotobi to unravel the cause of Mohbad’s death.
Those who have given evidence before the coroner sitting at High Court, Ita-Elewa, Ikorodu include the father of the deceased Joseph Aloba; his wife, Omawunmi; brother Adura, among others.
At its last sitting on November 22, the court heard that the autopsy report was not ready as the toxicology examination of the internal part of the deceased was being done in the USA.
The coroner failed to sit since December 6 due to the Judiciary workers strike.
Adoke’s trial
The trial of former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mohammed Adoke (SAN), is expected to resume before Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court in Abuja. He was granted permission to travel to the United Arab Emirates to see his family.
Adoke is on trial alongside Aliyu Abubakar, a property developer, over allegations of money laundering amounting to N300 million.
The EFCC alleged that Adoke made a cash payment of $2,267,400 to Unity Bank in 2013 in contravention of money laundering laws.
Justice Ekwo directed the former AGF to return to Nigeria before January 11, 2024, for the continuation of his trial.
Ikuforiji
The trial of former Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker, Adeyemi Ikuforiji, before Justice Mohammed Liman of the Federal High Court is expected to continue.
He was charged by the EFCC along with his former Personal Assistant, Oyebode Atoyebi, on a 54-count of N338.8 million money laundering.
They had pleaded not guilty and were allowed to continue on an earlier bail granted to them in 2012 when they were first arraigned.
On March 17, 2021, the EFCC closed its case after calling its second witness. On May 4, 2023, the defence lawyer, Dele Adesina (SAN), opened the case for the defence and began calling witnesses.
Femi Fani-Kayode
Former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, is on trial before Justice Olubumni Abike-Fadipe of an Ikeja Special Offences Court over alleged involvement in the use of false documents to fabricate evidence.
But he had pleaded not guilty to the 12-count charge when he was first arraigned on December 17, 2021. At the last hearing of the case, the trial judge had threatened to declare the former minister wanted if he failed to appear on the next adjourned date for his trial. The last time he was in court was November 4, 2022.
