The Nation Newspaper

Category: Saturday Magazine

  • Demola Seriki remembered by wife, children, associates

    Demola Seriki remembered by wife, children, associates

    • Islamic clerics, politicians eulogise ex-minister at one-year remembrance

    Exactly one year after his demise in faraway Madrid, Spain, Chief Ademola Rasaq Seriki (CON), former Nigerian Minister of State for Defence and Ambassador to Spain was remembered with a fidau prayer event yesterday.

    The prayer event was organised by his wife, Wosilat Okoya-Seriki and her children, Abisola Dejonwo, Faridah Demola-Seriki and Alimah Araoye. Wosilat was by his side in the Spanish capital when he breathed his last.

    The Special Muslim Prayer for the late Amb. Seriki held at the Island Club’s Peacock Hall, Onikan, Lagos was led by the Imams of Lagos Central Mosque, while the guest lecturer was Dr. Saheed Timehin, Associate Professor, Lagos State University (LASU).

    Seriki, died in active service while serving concurrently as Nigerian Ambassador to Spain and Permanent Representative to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) on December 15, 2022.

    Born on November 30, 1959 in Lagos, he was not only a politician, teacher, businessman and public administrator, whose ambassadorial duty he assumed in January 2021, but a loyal party man to the core. This endeared him to all and sundry as he, in his own right, possessed high level of intelligence, consistency and hardworking spirit that saw him rise through the ranks to the top in his political career.

    Sadly, however, he died on December 15, 2022 at the age of 63 while representing President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration as Ambassador in Spain.

    In his lecture, Dr. Timehin encouraged people gathered to be full of good deeds because, according to him, the only thing that will be left with everyone with their Lord in the grave and hereafter is good deed.

    Eulogising the departed, he said: “It was because of good and fulfilled life that Ambassador Ademola Rasaq Seriki lived that all of us are gathered here today to pray for him. May Allah continue to repose his soul in Al-Jannah Al-Firdaus.”

    Speaking on her late husband, Wosilat Okoya-Seriki described life in the last 365 days without him as not easy.

    “The last 365 days have been tough and extremely lonely without him. We shared so many lovely memories together. I thank the Almighty Allah for everything thus far,” she said.

    “His last moments were with his family, although we felt a deep pain, we remained strong, especially as he had accepted it as Allah’s will.

    “He was my best friend, and we had a deep bond and friendship.

    “I miss everything about him. Life has not been the same since his passing

    “He was a very good life partner to me and a wonderful father,” Wosilat said, adding that if there were to be another world, she would marry him again.

    “May Allah SWT forgive his shortcomings and grant him the highest place in Jannah, amin,” she prayed.

    Encomiums and goodwill messages poured at yesterday’s fidau prayers for the late ambassador was rather sympthomatic of the fact that Seriki lived a well spent life and had been loved in his life time and his memory has become one not to be wished away in hurry one year after his death. He continues to be remembered as the genuine family man that he was, even now in death.

    Seriki came to this world, he saw and, evidence abounds that, he conquered considering the fact of footprints he left behind in the sands of time and his beautiful memories as well as his numerous outstanding accomplishments, which continue to linger.

    Paying tribute to the departed, an associate of the late diplomat, Mutiu Aare, said he was a good man who encouraged all his friends to do good especially during the month of Ramadan. He prayed that Allah should continue to repose his soul in Al-Jannah.

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    Another of his political associates, Senator Abdul Bariu Gbenga Asafa said: “Rasaq Ademola Seriki was my younger one but we were friends. Of all that were close to him, I was one particular person. I believe it is because of this I was asked to be here today. However, no matter how good a man is, he would always have his shortcoming.

    “But Seriki was somebody that when you met him once, you would fall in love with him to continue to see him again and again. He was a good family man. He loved his children and did not joke with their matter.

    “Like the lecturer said, that we should encourage ourselves to do good towards one another, I remember how many people he helped when Demola Seriki was Minister of State for Defence. Death gives no notice, therefore, we should do good because I believe that the good done by Seriki is part of reason this prayer gathering befits him today and prayers will go and meet him in the grave. May Allah repose his soul in Al-Jannah,” Asafa, who spoke in Yoruba, said.

     Dignitaries from all walks of life including former Senator Lagos West, Gbenga Asafa, Mutiu Aare, Tunde Salau, Wosilat Okoya-Seriki, Shade Okoya, brother of the widow, Tajudeen Okoya and representatives of the Oba of Lagos joined the families to grace the event.

  • Couple lament as four children go missing two weeks to Christmas

    Couple lament as four children go missing two weeks to Christmas

    December 25, the day set aside by Christians to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ, is barely two weeks away. Individuals, groups as well as organizations are planning how best to make the day a memorable one. In family terms, husbands, wives and children have started demanding the kind of gifts they want from their loved ones. But for Mr. Chimaobi Agha and his wife, the best Christmas gift they can get from anyone is reuniting them with their four children, who are yet to return home after leaving for school on November 27, SUNNY NWANKWO, who visited the Umuagu, Umuahia North residence of the couple, reports.

    The presence of children in a home no doubt cements the bond of marriage or relationship. This accounts for why many marriages or relationships thrive despite the challenges and difficulties the parties may encounter while they try to provide for the children and other members of the family.

    In African tradition, it is the expectation of parents that their children would grow up and in turn take care of them. That is why parents could choose to go hungry just to ensure that they give their children good parenting.

    But for Mr. Chimaobi Agha, a resident of Umuagu, Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State and indigene of Ndukwe Isakaogu, Amasiri autonomous community in Ebonyi State, his dream as well as that of his wife, Oluchi, that they would be surrounded by their children and possibly their grandchildren is currently under threat.

    Background

    Mr. Agha, the eldest in a family of five siblings (three males and two females), had joined one of his kinsmen in Umuahia, the Abia State capital in 2008 in his upholstery workshop. But seeing that he might not be able to cope with the business, he decided to learn bricklaying (mason) the same year. And in 2010 when he felt that he had secured the requisite skills and knowledge in the craft, decided to start hustling for himself, knowing the responsibility that awaited him at home since his parents and siblings also rely on him for support.

    On December 6, 2015, Agha decided to take a wife, Oluchi, whom he has now lived with for seven years. In the space of that time, the duo has grown to be fond of each other. And like every other low income family, they have been striving as much as they can to keep their family running.

    Mercifully, the couple was blessed with four children made up of three boys and a girl which they believed was the most precious gift they could get from God.

    On November 27, however, tragedy struck as the couple was suddenly in the news for the wrong reasons: their four children, Mmesoma, Testimony, Godswill and Chinweotito, disappeared in a flash and have been nowhere to be found ever since. Mrs. Chimaobi definitely would not have allowed her children to step out of the house on that fateful day if she had an inkling of the ugly development, but somehow, she was caught off guard.

    On the fateful day, the mother of four, whose husband had traveled to Emene in Enugu State where he was contracted for a bricklaying job, had woken up like she normally did to prepare for the day’s business and also get the children ready for school.

    And when it was time for the children to go to school, she decided to see them off. Along the line, she suddenly realized that the balls of akara (bean cake) she was frying were already burning, hence she rushed back to take them off the frying pan. But by the time she returned to join her children, they had already boarded a keke (commercial tricycle) in front of their mother’s shop and went off to school.

    The poor mother had no reason to sense any danger because for two years, the children had been going to the school located a short distance from the house on their own. So on realising that the children had left for school, she merely shrugged and returned to her akara business.

    Unfortunately, Oluchi had no idea of the tragedy that had hit the family until after school hours when she waited in vain for her children to return from school. Having waited for hours without her children in sight, she called the children’s school to know why they had not dismissed, only to be told that the children never got to the school.

    Shocked and confused, she decided to go to the children’s school only for the teachers and pupils to confirm that her children never made it to school on that day.

    The question on many lips is who was the operator of the commercial tricycle the children boarded? Are the children still alive in the face of insecurity and ritual killings associated with the ember months?

    While the matter has been reported to the police who claim to have started preliminary investigation, many residents believe that only divine intervention would fish out the tricycle operator or provide a clue about the children’s whereabouts.

    ‘How my children vanished into thin air’

    Providing details of the circumstances that culminated in the disappearance of her children, the distraught mother of four said: On the 27th of November, I prepared my children for school. When it was time for them to go to school, I took them to the junction, which is some distance from my shop, where they usually boarded keke (commercial tricycle) to school.

    “Normally, I would stand with them to flag down the keke that would take them to school. But on that fateful day, the akara (bean cake) that I had on fire was already burning, so I had to go to take them off from the frying pan.

    “I rushed back to meet them, but they had already stopped a keke man and left. That is how they have been going to school in the last two years.

    “When the normal time they were supposed to return passed, I called the school to find out why the children were not yet back. That was when I got the most shocking news of my life.

    “They told me that they did not see my children in the school on that day. My world literally came to an end. I was devastated. How do I explain that my four children who left the house for school in the morning are nowhere to be found?

    “At that point, I did not even know what to do. I went to their school myself and their teachers confirmed that they were not there on that day. I was just going about, hoping that I would see them, but till date, I am yet to see any of them.

    “I have gone to police stations, radio houses, prayer houses and every other place I think could be of help to the recovery of my missing children. My life has turned upside down since November 27. My every day prayer is for my four children to return to me sound and healthy.

    “In the past, we were using a particular keke rider, but at some point, he started disappointing us. Sometimes, he would not come early. At other times, he would not even tell us that he would not be coming to pick the children.

    “Because of his inconsistency, we decided to stop using him. We later got another person who was more prompt and reliable. Unfortunately, the young man, who was taking them to school from their pre-nursery to their nursery school, relocated from Umuahia to another city after his studies.

    “There were some grown up ones that they did go with. The problem is that those ones were inconsistent too. Sometimes, the children, after waiting for them, would discover that they would not be going to school on that day.

    “Sometimes, the grown up ones would come back home without going to their classes to pick them up while my children would be waiting for them so that they would all come back together, not knowing that they were all gone.

    “It was after all this that the children started going to school by themselves. They were the ones that suggested and convinced me that they wanted to start going to school on their own, and for two years, they were going to school and coming back home on their own without any issue.

    “I didn’t know that such a thing would happen, and I believe that God that gave the children to me will bring them back safely.

    “Honestly, I don’t know what else to say. I am like someone that has lost everything he has laboured to earn, preserve and safeguard over the years.

    “Life has become unbearable for me, because whenever the children come back from school, we sing and pray together. And on Saturdays when they would not go to school, they would help me out in my business.

    “When I cry, it is the children that wipe away my tears. Apart from the fact that I find it hard to eat, I have suffered emotional trauma.

    “I have never stolen anyone’s property; not even a fowl. The kids are a product of my marriage with my husband. I didn’t come to my husband’s house with anyone’s child.

    “I put my hope and trust in God, and I know that He will not disappoint me. I am begging all Nigerians, Abians and others to help me in prayers. I know that there is nothing that God cannot do.

    “God says He is the God that promises and fulfills. I know that he has promised me and He will surely fulfill it.

    “People should please put their ears on the ground. If there is any information about the kids, they should kindly report to the nearest police station or appropriate quarters.

    “I don’t know how to fight. I walk on my own. I suffer alone and move alone. I don’t have any enemies around where I am living or any other place.

    “In terms of suspicion, I am not suspecting anyone. Anybody that planned to set me up or wants to traumatise me, God is watching the person. The person cannot live in this house forever. One day, that person will join his or her ancestors.

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    “All I need are my children. I have given the case file to God. He is the one that will fight this battle for me. My children are still alive; they normally talk to me in the dream. They are still alive.

    “I am confident that these children will never die for the sins that they never committed, and I promise God that if He helps to bring these children back alive, my family and I will forever serve him.

    How I received news of my children’s disappearance, by distraught father

    The distraught father of the missing children, Mr. Chmaobi Agha, an indigene of Ndukwe Isakaogu, Amasiri autonomous community in Ebonyi State, said: “I came to Umuahia in 2008 to hustle. We are five in the family, two females and three male children. I am the first born.

    “My parents are still alive. I came to Umuahia immediately after I finished secondary school. I was staying with my brother who was a furniture maker.

    “I didn’t want to join any woodwork because my brother was already doing it and I didn’t want it to appear as if I was competing with him.

    “So in 2010, I left him to join mason work. I learnt the job for some years and later started being my own boss.

    “We got married on December 6, 2015 and gave birth to a set of twins before the other two came. I have a great bond with my children. It was beyond father-children relationship. They were my friends and my joy.

    “I was in Enugu, around the Airport axis, where I had gone for a job when my wife called to inform me of the ugly incident. I immediately came back and since that time, we have been going from one place to another in search of our kids.

    “The matter was initially reported at Umuagu Police Station and was later transferred to the State Criminal and Investigation Department (SCID).

    “Life has not been the same for us since that incident. I am not suspecting anyone. I haven’t collected anybody’s property and cannot remember having any quarrel with anyone.

    “I am just appealing to the police and Nigerians to please come to our aid. The pain is too much for us to bear. How can one explain losing four children at once?

    Position of Abia State House of Assembly

    The Abia State House of Assembly resolved to render financial assistance to the family after the Abia State Police Command declared the four children missing.

    The lawmakers at a plenary presided over by the Speaker, Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, received a motion from Godwin Adiele, the member representing Ukwa West Constituency, on the disappearance of the four siblings.

    Adiele prayed the house to mandate the state government to step up action in mobilising all the security agencies in the state to intensify efforts in identifying the whereabouts of the missing children.

    Adiele appealed to the House to allocate a modest financial support to the affected family to help them in coping with the financial challenges arising from the unfortunate incident.

    After agreeing to his prayers, the House resolved that security agencies conduct a comprehensive investigation into the activities of Keke riders in the state.

    Confirming the development, the Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Abia State Police Command, Maureen Chinaka, said the incident was reported at the Ohuhu Police Station on November 28, 2023.

    The police spokesperson said the parents of the missing children reported that the Keke rider took them to an unknown destination.

    “They reported the matter at the Ohuhu Police Station, and the DPO in charge of the division swung into action, searching for the kids in the neighborhood, including hotels. Investigation is ongoing on the matter,” she said.

    Chinaka said in a statement: “On 28/11/2023, at about 1530 hrs, Mr Chimaobi Agha and his wife, Mrs Chimaobi Oluchi, residents of Umuagu (IBeku, Umuahia North LGA), visited Ohuhu Police Divisional headquarters to report an incident.

    “According to their account, on Monday, 27/11/2023, at 0730 hrs, Mrs Chimaobi Oluchi escorted their four children identified as follows:

    1. Chinweotiti Chimaobi (7 yrs old, female)

    2. Nmesomachi Chimaobi (7 yrs old, female)

    3. Testimony Chimaobi (4 yrs old, male)

    4. Godswill Chimaobi (2 yrs old, male)

    “The children’s mother escorted them to the junction of her street to board an unknown tricycle destined for Great Ambassadors College, Okaiuga Nkwoegwu, Ohuhu, in Umuahia North LGA.

    “No one escorted or went with them, considering that the eldest is 7 years old and the tricyclist is unknown.

    “Unfortunately, at the end of the school day, the children did not return home as anticipated.

    “The police initiated an investigation into the whereabouts of the missing children.

    “Further investigation has shown that the children were not present in school on the specified date, and the investigation to trace the missing children is ongoing.

    “We urge anyone with information that could aid in locating them to promptly report to the nearest police station.”

    Government’s response

    The Senior Special Adviser on Media to Governor Alex Otti, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma, in a monitored radio programme assured that the state government was aware of the incident.

    According to Ekeoma, the governor had directed the appropriate security agencies to go into action and assured that efforts were ongoing to ensure that not only that the perpetrators were fished out, but the children safely returned to their parents.

  • A transformative investment in agriculture and power sectors

    A transformative investment in agriculture and power sectors

    The proposed 2024 budget promises to be a watershed moment in the country’s development trajectory. The budget, envisioned as a catalyst for job-rich economic growth, macro-economic stability and elevated living standards, strategically allocates substantial resources into two cornerstone sectors: agriculture and power. In this analysis, Assistant Editor NDUKA CHIEJINA unveils the transformative possibilities and synergies embedded in these strategic allocations and how this presents a roadmap to a more prosperous future for the country

    The Federal Government has unveiled a comprehensive budget of N589,570,823,967 for the agriculture and power sectors in 2024, showcasing the administration’s steadfast commitment under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The administration is resolutely focused on fostering economic growth, employment, and job creation, marking a significant departure from oil-centric strategies.

    Agriculture as the bedrock of growth and food security

    A substantial portion of the proposed budget, amounting to N252,692,377,292, has been earmarked for agriculture and food security. This allocation underscores the government’s dedication to cultivating a robust agricultural sector, poised to undergo transformative changes. Investing in pivotal areas such as irrigation infrastructure, enhanced seeds, and fertilizer subsidies holds immense potential for elevating agricultural output. This strategic move is expected to bolster food security, diminishing reliance on imports and ensuring the availability of affordable food for all Nigerians. Moreover, the surge in production will generate employment opportunities in farming, agro-processing, and related industries, contributing significantly to overall economic growth and job creation.

     The allocation to research and development in agricultural technologies is a forward-looking initiative with promising outcomes. It has the potential to enhance crop yields, fortify resistance against pests and diseases, and optimise resource efficiency. This not only augments production levels but also ensures the sustainability of the agricultural sector amidst the challenges posed by climate change. Dr. Michael Ibrahim, an entrepreneur with an integrated farm in Nasarawa State valued at over N100 million, expresses confidence that this budget can markedly boost food production and reduce dependence on food imports. The potential impact of these strategic allocations heralds a new era for Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, setting the stage for sustainable growth and resilience.

    He stated that: “With proper implementation, these investments in irrigation, improved seeds, and fertilizer subsidies can lead to a 20-30% increase in agricultural output within the next few years.” Dr. Ibrahim also sees the focus on research and development as a game-changer for the sector. “By investing in innovative technologies and climate-smart practices, we can not only increase yields but also ensure the long-term sustainability of our agriculture,” he noted.

     Investments in storage facilities, transportation infrastructure, and market information systems will improve farmers’ access to markets, reducing post-harvest losses and increasing their competitiveness. This will lead to better incomes for farmers and encourage them to invest further in their agricultural activities. Additionally, supporting farmer cooperatives and associations can strengthen their bargaining power and ensure that they receive fair prices for their produce.

     The budget recognises the importance of diversifying the agricultural sector beyond traditional staple crops. By promoting the cultivation of high-value cash crops and supporting small-scale farmers to engage in diverse agricultural activities, the government can increase export earnings and create jobs in rural areas. A member of the All-Farmers Association of Nigeria (ALFAN), Ishaya Kabiru, believes the focus on improving storage facilities, transportation infrastructure, and market information systems will greatly benefit farmers. “These investments will give farmers better access to markets, reduce post-harvest losses, and increase their incomes,” he said.

     Power as the engine of economic progress

    Strategic investments in storage facilities, transportation infrastructure, and market information systems are poised to revolutionise farmers’ access to markets, effectively curbing post-harvest losses and heightening their competitiveness. This transformative approach is set to bolster farmers’ incomes, fostering a cycle of investment in their agricultural pursuits. Furthermore, the reinforcement of farmer cooperatives and associations holds the potential to fortify their bargaining power, ensuring equitable compensation for their produce.

    Spotting the imperative of diversification, the budget proactively promotes a shift beyond traditional staple crops. The cultivation of high-value cash crops, coupled with support for small-scale farmers diversifying their agricultural activities, presents an opportunity to boost export earnings and generate employment in rural areas. Ishaya Kabiru, a member of the All-Farmers Association of Nigeria (ALFAN), expresses optimism, stating that the emphasis on enhancing storage facilities, transportation infrastructure, and market information systems will significantly benefit farmers by expanding market access, minimising post-harvest losses, and augmenting their incomes.

    A substantial allocation of N336,878,446,675 to the power sector underscores the government’s resolute commitment to ensuring reliable and affordable electricity for all Nigerians. This financial injection holds the promise of substantial benefits for the nation. Diversifying the energy landscape by investing in renewable sources such as solar, wind, and hydro can significantly amplify the nation’s electricity generation capacity. This strategic move not only diminishes reliance on fossil fuels but also contributes to environmental sustainability and secures the nation’s energy future.

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    Simultaneously, upgrading and expanding the transmission and distribution network are poised to reduce transmission losses, ensuring the efficient delivery of electricity to consumers. This enhancement in infrastructure guarantees a more reliable electricity supply, thereby attracting businesses and investors and fostering overall economic growth. The ripple effect extends to rural areas, where providing reliable and affordable electricity can be transformative. It supports agricultural activities, enhances education and healthcare services, and stimulates economic development, ultimately leading to an improved quality of life for rural communities and contributing to poverty reduction.

    Unlocking the combined potential of the synergy

     The proposed budget allocations for agriculture and power are not isolated investments. They hold incredible potential for creating powerful synergies that can accelerate national development. Reliable and affordable electricity can power irrigation pumps, ensuring efficient water use and improved crop yields in agriculture. This will not only increase agricultural productivity but also promote sustainable water management. By providing reliable electricity, the government can encourage the development of agro-processing industries in rural areas. This will add value to agricultural products, reduce post-harvest losses, create jobs, and generate additional income for farmers.

     Renewable energy sources can power agricultural equipment and facilities, promoting sustainable agricultural practices and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, precision agriculture technologies, powered by electricity and digital infrastructure, can optimize resource use and promote climate-smart agriculture. Power experts also see the budget as a positive step towards achieving energy security and economic growth. Engr. David Osemdua, CEO of Flodasa Energy, a renewable energy company in Nigeria, believes the budget will accelerate the shift towards renewable energy sources like solar and wind. “The budget allocation for renewable energy is a welcome development and will help reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and contribute to a cleaner environment,” he stated. He sees the upgrade and expansion of the grid as crucial for ensuring reliable electricity supply. “This will reduce transmission losses and improve the quality of power delivered to consumers, attracting businesses and investments,” he stated.

    While the proposed budget allocations carry immense potential, their effectiveness hinges on critical factors. Transparent and accountable implementation is paramount, ensuring funds reach their intended targets and are utilized efficiently. Public-private partnerships can amplify impact by leveraging private sector resources and expertise, expediting the development of both agriculture and power sectors. Capacity-building for farmers and rural communities is vital to ensure they benefit from investments, adopt new technologies, and practices. Regular monitoring and evaluation are crucial for tracking progress, ensuring budget allocations achieve intended outcomes, and identifying areas for improvement.

     Effectively addressing these aspects will unlock the combined potential of agriculture and power in Nigeria. Beyond immediate goals of job creation, macroeconomic stability, and poverty reduction, this effort establishes a foundation for sustainable and inclusive long-term development. The journey to transform Nigeria into a prosperous and food-secure nation has commenced. By seizing this opportunity and harnessing the power of agriculture and energy, Nigerians can collectively sow the seeds of growth and harvest a brighter future for their nation.

    Looking beyond the numbers – challenges and opportunities

    The budget’s impact extends beyond statistics, representing an investment in Nigeria’s future—a commitment to building a nation where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive. By empowering farmers, endorsing sustainable agricultural practices, and ensuring reliable, affordable electricity for all, the government lays the groundwork for a more prosperous and equitable future.

     However, achieving these goals requires not just financial investment but also a collective effort from all stakeholders. Public-private partnerships, civil society engagement, and individual responsibility are crucial in ensuring the budget’s benefits reach vulnerable communities, contributing to a fairer, more sustainable future for Nigeria. The proposed budget signifies a critical turning point in Nigeria’s progress, unlocking the potential of agriculture and power for sustainable development, ensuring food security, economic prosperity, and a brighter future for generations. Acknowledging existing challenges is essential. Global oil price fluctuations, climate change, and potential project delays pose hurdles. Equitable distribution of benefits necessitates careful planning and targeted interventions. While experts see potential in the proposed budget allocations, effective implementation, strong partnerships, and a focus on capacity building are crucial for delivering on promises. The budget’s success will be measured by its impact on the lives of Nigerians—increased food security, improved living standards, and a more prosperous future for all. Only time will unveil the outcome.

  • Boosting the national power grid with private sector investments

    Boosting the national power grid with private sector investments

    The unbundling and privatisation of Nigeria’s power sector aimed to establish a competitive market, drawing private investment to enhance power generation and ensure a reliable, cost-efficient power supply. Transcorp Group’s first investment in the Ughelli Power Plant via Transcorp Power Limited stands as a pivotal contributor to economic development. This strategic investment has invigorated the national grid, empowering it to power numerous homes and industries across Nigeria and West Africa, reports Assistant Business Editor COLLINS NWEZE

    Despite the initial challenges accompanying the privatisation of the power sector, the past decade has witnessed the emergence of formidable power companies, both at the national and international levels. These companies have played a crucial role in achieving various milestones, such as the augmentation of installed power generation capacity, the expansion of the transmission network, widespread meter deployment, increased utility revenues, and a heightened demand for power sector equipment. This transformation has paved the way for extensive private sector investments and engagement across the entire value chain.

     Over the course of a decade, Transcorp Group’s inaugural investment in the Ughelli Power Plant through Transcorp Power Limited has significantly elevated the national grid. Transcorp Power Limited (TPL), situated in Ughelli, Delta State, boasts a single-cycle 972MW installed capacity, making it the largest gas-fired power generating station in the country. With a mission to improve lives, TPL is at the forefront of energy generation, impacting millions in Nigeria and across Africa.

     Having surpassed all requirements within the stipulated period, Transcorp Power received the certificate of discharge from post-privatisation monitoring. As of November 2023, year-to-date figures indicate that TPL has contributed substantially, sending out 2,857,950.40MWh (an average of 357MW daily), constituting 8.65 percent of the energy supplied to the national grid. In a noteworthy performance in November 2023, Transcorp Power Limited consistently dispatched an average of 438MW, securing the second position after Egbin. For the entire year-to-date of 2023, TPL holds a commendable fourth position in power generation rankings.

     “TPL currently has a generation capacity of 500MW, and can generate enough energy to power 1.6 million homes daily. Since the privatisation of the power sector in November 2013, TPL has generated over 29,574,447MWh (29TWh) of energy to the national grid powering countless homes and industries in Nigeria and West Africa. TPL currently has a generation capacity of 500MW and currently generates 426MW on average daily in December,” report from the company said.

    Managing Director/CEO of Transcorp Power Limited, Peter Ikenga, in his comments noted that the Company’s journey has been one of resilience, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to powering progress.

    “As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of Transcorp Power Limited, we reflect on a decade of impactful contributions to the energy sector. I am immensely proud of our team’s dedication and the milestones we’ve achieved,” Ikenga said, adding that the anniversary is not just a testament to the Company’s past successes but a springboard for the future.

    For the last decade, Transcorp Power has been an integral part of its host community, with several community-based projects aimed at improving livelihoods including a vocational skills acquisition program that has empowered over 200 recipients. The Transcorp Staff School which Transcorp Power Limited adopted following the takeover of the Ughelli Plant currently serves the community as well as its employees, guaranteeing a higher quality of education for the children in the community.

    “We remain committed to driving positive change and being a catalyst for sustainable development. Thanks to our team, stakeholders, and the communities we serve for being integral parts of this incredible journey. Here’s to the next decade of powering possibilities and lighting up the path to a brighter future,” Ikenga added.

    At the event which held in Warri, Delta State, Transcorp Power also celebrated its employees who have been with the company since inception and have contributed significantly to the achievements of the past decade.

    Transcorp Power Limited has continued to receive recognition for its contributions to the power sector. The company recently won multiple international awards, including the Leading Power Generation Company Nigeria 2023 (International Business Magazine Awards 2023), Leading Power Generation Company Nigeria 2023 and Most Sustainable Power Company Nigeria 2023 (2023 World Business Outlook Awards).

    Transcorp Power Limited (TPL) is a single cycle 972MW installed capacity power generating plant located in Ughelli, Delta State. It is the largest gas-fired power generating station in the country. Its mission is to improve lives, and we are leading the way in energy generation for millions of people in Nigeria and Africa.

    Also, in May next year, the Central Bank of Nigeria, under the leadership of Olayemi Cardoso, in collaboration with the Transmission Company of Nigeria and various power distribution companies, is set to conclude 53 power projects valued at N122 billion. These projects, currently under construction across the nation, are poised to augment the country’s power infrastructure significantly. Upon completion, they are expected to contribute over 1,000 megawatts to the firm’s wheeling capacity. The initiative comes at a crucial juncture as Nigeria grapples with the imperative of meeting the escalating demands for electricity driven by rapid population growth.

    Recognising this need, the stakeholders are strategically investing in diverse power projects to address the burgeoning energy requirements anticipated through 2030. Industry insiders predict promising prospects in areas such as distributed power generation, smart grids, and energy storage over the medium to long term. These innovations not only align with the evolving landscape of energy needs but also position Nigeria to harness opportunities in the dynamic and technologically advanced power sector.

    Power investment and expansion programmes

    In a strategic move, Transcorp Group recently acquired a commanding 60 per cent stake in the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC), solidifying its influence in the region. This acquisition seamlessly aligns with Transcorp Group’s overarching vision to empower Africa and act as a catalyst for the expansion of the continent’s industrial landscape. Under the leadership of Transcorp Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu, the conglomerate’s market capitalisation experienced a significant upswing, providing the financial strength required to make electricity accessible to Nigeria and Africa’s burgeoning population.

     Tony Elumelu, recognising that the lack of electricity presents a significant challenge for the continent, he strategically positioned Transcorp to bridge power supply gaps in Africa. Through a consortium, Transcorp Group not only acquired a substantial stake in AEDC but also orchestrated pivotal management changes. Christopher Ezeafulukwe, the Managing Director/CEO of Transcorp Power, was appointed by the AEDC board to assume the role of the new Managing Director/CEO of AEDC; while Peter Ikenga, the current CEO of Transcorp Energy, succeeded Ezeafulukwe as the Managing Director of Transcorp Power. Elumelu utilised this portfolio realignment to further strengthen Transcorp’s foothold in the continent’s power sector, propelling economic growth with a reliable power supply.

     In recognition of the transformative impact of addressing Nigeria’s power challenges, the World Bank emphasises that resolving the nation’s power problem presents an opportunity to address longstanding issues and stimulate economic growth. The absence of dependable power has been a significant constraint for citizens and businesses, leading to estimated annual economic losses of $29 billion, equivalent to about two percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Beyond Nigeria, West Africa grapples with one of the lowest electrification rates, with 220 million people living without access to electricity, compounded by some of the highest electricity costs in Sub-Saharan Africa. Transcorp’s strategic initiatives, therefore, position it as a key player in tackling these challenges and driving positive change in the region’s power landscape.

  • Survivors of Tudun Biri bombing relive experience

    Survivors of Tudun Biri bombing relive experience

    • I lost three siblings, my precious wife, two kids, says victim

    Even as the injured survivors get free medical care and food and the community is assured of developmental projects, last Sunday night’s error drone bombing in Kaduna village has left permanent scars in the minds and lives of survivors, ABDULGAFAR ALABELEWE reports

    The people of Tudun Biri village, Afaka Ward, Rigasa District in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State were gathered for their annual Maulud Nabbiy celebration on the night of Sunday, December 3 when tragedy struck.

    At first, residents of the community who had got used to being troubled by bandits thought it was the gunmen that had found a means of bombarding them aerially, hence they scampered into safety.  But when they realised that the bombing was done by a military fighter jet, they rushed to rescue their injured kinsmen and pick the dead bodies, not knowing that danger was not yet over.

    As they wailed over the lives destroyed and attended to the injured, another missile was dropped, claiming more lives than did the first. The locals who rushed to contact the media initially reported 30 killed, alleging that the attack was launched by the fighter jet of the Nigerian Air Force.

    But the NAF authorities in a swift reaction denied involvement, saying that it did not carry out any air operation within the said period. The Nigerian Army, however, admitted responsibility for the incident less than 15 hours later, saying that it was an error on its part.

    The Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, thereafter led principal staff officers from the Army to Tudun Biri, where he apologised profusely for the error attack.

    Explaining what transpired, the Army Chief said: “The Nigerian Army Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) on its routine mission observed movement of people suspected to be bandits, and having trailed them for some time, the decision was taken to strike based on the observation of some tactics usually employed by bandits.

    “Unfortunately, the report we got thereafter revealed that it was innocent civilians in Tudun Biri that the drone carried out the strike on.”

    After praying for the repose of the victims’ soul at the mass grave, General Lagbaja proceeded to the hospital to see the injured, donating N10 million for their upkeep. The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, also joined the COAS at the hospital and made similar donations to the welfare of the injured. 

    Similarly, in an effort to wipe the tears of the community that has lost close to 100 loved ones, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday promised to rebuild the community under the presidential programme called the Fulako Initiative. He also said that on completion of the investigation that had already been initiated, whoever was found wanting in the error bombing, would be punished.

    For Suleiman Saminu, a 34-year-old father of three, Sunday’s incident was the greatest disaster of his life, as he revealed that his three siblings, wife and two children were all wiped out without the opportunity of saying goodbye.

    Saminu said: “Before the incident, I had a wife and three children, but the incident claimed my wife and two children, leaving me with a motherless daughter. Three of my siblings were also killed.

    “We were out during the Maulud when we heard the sound. People started saying that it was the loud speaker we were using that exploded. But I said no, it could not be, because even in movies, I have never seen where a loud speaker exploded, not to talk of killing people.

    “So, when we went closer, we saw a hole and concluded that this cannot be speaker. We observed the hole and saw irons and that further confirmed to us that it was not loud speaker that exploded.

    “In fact, one of the people that died, it was with force that we removed iron from his body.

    “That night, everywhere we turned was littered with bodies. For some, we just could not account for them because we could not recognise them.

    “As it is now, before the incident I had a wife three children. But now I don’t have a wife and I lost two children. I also lost three of my siblings. There is no family that has not lost someone. We also lost visitors.”  

    Another survivor, Idris Dahiru, an albino who appeared traumatised and psychologically sick from the attack, claimed to have lost 34 members of his family to the incident. Dahiru said majority of the people killed in the incident were people hit by the second bomb while they were trying to rescue those injured by the first strike.

    He said: “On that Sunday night, around 9:30pm, we were celebrating Maulud Nabbiy. We had people from other villages too who had come to celebrate with us. All of a sudden, we saw the light of an aircraft in the sky, but we didn’t see the flight itself and there was no noise too.

    “We actually didn’t sense any danger because we are a poor farming community and law abiding people. But before we knew it, the plane had dropped a bomb in our midst. I only escaped narrowly too.

    “Our village is almost wiped out, because in my family alone, we lost about 34 people. So, we want government to come to our aid because we are in serious pain and trauma,” he said.

    Bara’atu Abdullahi, a survivor who sustained minor injuries, explained that she was not of Tudun Biri village but came to visit her mother and decided to wait behind when she heard that the village’s annual Maulud celebration was fixed for Sunday, December 3, not knowing that she was only waiting to witness a big disaster.

    She said she only sustained minor injuries on her leg, but she and other people at the occasion were stained with blood from bodies dismembered by the bomb.

    Her words: “When the first one happened, the village people announced that it was a bomb that was dropped on us from a drone, so they were making efforts to stop the drone. Then 30 minutes later, as the youths from the village and those that came to celebrate Maulud from other neighbouring villages were busy helping to evacuate the corpses, another bomb was dropped.

    “Some of the bodies were dismembered. Legs, heads and other body parts were apart, some had their stomachs burst. Those that were not killed were stained with dismembered flesh of others,” she said. 

    Aisha Haruna, another survivor, said they could not count the number of people killed as many were blown into pieces.

    She said: “We don’t even know the number of people killed, because the bodies that were recovered and buried in my presence were more than 80. But the flesh that were picked around and put inside sacks cannot be quantified. They were just buried like that.”

    She called on the government to investigate the incident to prevent future occurrence, as she commended the top military hierarchy who had visited the injured survivors and supported them with cash for their upkeep.

    Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, who is worried by the incident, has since offered to provide financial, psychological and emotional aid to the orphans who lost their caregivers in the tragic incident.

  • Developers, land grabbers and Lagos worsening floods

    Developers, land grabbers and Lagos worsening floods

    In the bustling city of Lagos, the battle against flooding and illegal land sales has reached a boiling point in many communities. Developers, driven by greed and disregard for official warnings, have continued to exacerbate the flooding problems, resulting in the displacement of countless families and individuals who dwell in these communities. HALIMAH BALOGUN writes that as government agencies continue to sound the alarm, resistance and apathy from developers have left many residents in a state of despair.

    Lagos often referred to as Nigeria’s Centre of Excellence and State of Aquatic Splendour has a flooding crisis, and the consequences are far-reaching. The results impact public health and safety negatively. The flooding results from what experts described as a flawed drainage system and poor city planning.

     One of the primary issues fueling the flooding crisis in Lagos is the unscrupulous actions of developers who knowingly build on flood-prone areas, disregarding environmental assessments and regulations. Worst still, the developers feign ignorance of the devastating effects of flooding on the socio-economic lives of the residents.

    Flooding has some adverse effects, among which include loss of human life, property and infrastructure damage, road closures, erosion and landslide risks.

     Generally, flooding is caused by heavy rainfall and climate change. It typically occurs when prolonged rain falls over several days when intense rain falls over a short period, or when a river or stream overflows onto the surrounding area. Flooding can also result from the failure of a water control structure.

     Damaging flooding may happen with only a few inches of water, or it may cover a house to the rooftop. Floods can occur within minutes or over a long period and may last for days, weeks, or longer.

    Regrettably, developers do not take cognisance of the dangerous effects of the devastating tendencies of flooding on the environment.

     By cutting corners to maximise profits, these developers have contributed significantly to the degradation of the city’s natural drainage systems, leading to widespread flooding during the rainy seasons.

     Moreover, the illicit practice of selling lands without proper authorisation has further complicated the situation. In communities across Lagos, unsuspecting buyers have fallen victim to unscrupulous land sales, only to discover that the lands they have purchased are not legally recognised. As a result, many residents find themselves embroiled in legal battles, facing the looming threat of eviction from the lands they believed to be rightfully theirs.

     Compounding these challenges is the blatant refusal of some developers to heed warnings issued by government agencies about building codes and compliance. Despite repeated directives to adhere to regulations aimed at mitigating flooding and ensuring the safety of structures, many developers have continued to flout these guidelines, leading to the proliferation of non-compliant buildings in vulnerable areas.

     In response to these pressing issues, the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) has announced plans to demolish non-compliant buildings to address the threats posed by illegal developments and flooding which has become increasingly worrisome. This decisive action by the FHA signals a concerted effort to reclaim communities from the grip of dishonest developers and provide relief for residents who have borne the brunt of the flooding crisis.

     During a tour of FESTAC Town up to the Abule-Ado area, a lot of abnormalities were observed, ranging from a reduction in the size of roads, blockage of drainage systems and canals and other flagrant defiance to property laws as construction work was ongoing at the sites.

     However, the Deputy General Manager of Urban and Regional Planning for the zone, Francesca Michael-James said the Federal Government will not fold its arms and allow things to degenerate.

       FHA’s decision

     The Federal Housing Authority (FHA), South West Zone has disclosed plans to resume the demolition of illegal structures in the FESTAC Town area of Lagos State, especially at Phase 2.

     The FHA said some of the structures had earlier been marked for demolition as their owners had contravened safety rules.

     This was disclosed during a press conference organised by the zone in Lagos.

    The Zonal Managing Director, Hakeem Olugbenro, Deputy General Manager of Urban and Regional Planning, Francesca Michael-James and the Head of Land Survey, Lawal Umar-Salihu lamented the gross violation of government rules among homeowners in the town.

     According to them, land-grabbing activities have grossly constituted the menace of illegal structures being witnessed in FESTAC Town, and the Federal Government is ready to checkmate the trend.

     Some land speculators and land grabbers with their illegal structures have tampered with the original masterplan of FESTAC and this may adversely affect the environment in terms of flooding and other aspects detrimental to the well-being of FESTAC people.

     The representatives promised that demolition of illegal structures will resume in earnest as notices have been served since August 2023.

     The Zonal Manager, South West, Akintola Olugbenro said access to the affected area has been cumbersome because of encroachment and illegal development.

     He said: “After so many years getting access to the property belonging to the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) in FESTAC Town has been cumbersome, especially in terms of encroachment and illegal development.

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     “This has become so wide, that it is turning the whole place into a slum. The FHA does not build slums like we are being tagged.

     “A lot of illegalities have taken place in that place and we are trying to see how best we can fix this to enable people to live in a more serene environment. Unfortunately, we have so many unprofessional estate developers and illegal property dealers who have defaced the environment.”

     Corroborating his colleague’s assertion, the Deputy General Manager of South West Zone, Francesca Michael-James lamented the fruitless efforts of the government in restoring normalcy to the area, saying, “We are trying to have a sustainable environment and give people a livable town. FESTAC is swampy by nature and why it was developed in phases was reduced to the costs of reclaiming it. For instance, the Phase 1 and part of Phase 2 were sand-filled. Our role is to provide housing for people to enhance their lives, whether commercial or private.

     “From the second phase towards Abule-Ado, the sand filling and road levelling were done and we have to continue from there because FHA has a masterplan for the whole landed property, which was done in the 70s before the commencement of FESTAC Town.

    Distortion of Master Plan

       “What we have noticed in FESTAC Town recently is haphazard development and distortion of the Master Plan. However, the activities of land speculators and land grabbers have disrupted the plans, especially in terms of drainage and canals.

     “In the Master Plan, we have the major artilleries, collector and minor roads. For example, the standard of the Right of Way is about 50 width which was observed by occupants of the 1st to fifth avenues but at several other places in the Town, what we have is a distortion of the Master Plan and landfilling or road leveling is no longer in place.

     “We started demolition of an illegal structure last year but there was a public outcry and, in response to this, we halted the demolition exercise and convened a stakeholders meeting to address the outcry.

     “In furtherance, we embarked on a study of the area by flying a drone to the areas under Federal Government acquisition after which we asked the stakeholders to halt existing construction work to redesign the place and minimise the effects on people,” she said.

  • Upbringing that made my children successful – 90-year-old Jimmy Agbaje’s mother

    Upbringing that made my children successful – 90-year-old Jimmy Agbaje’s mother

    • Respected teacher says her children never had extra lessons as pupils

    Clocking 90 years comes with great wisdom, insight and forthrightness. For Mrs Margaret Olabisi Agbaje, who clocked 90 years on November 19, long life is a gift from God, but she is grateful to those who supported her to get to this stage of her life. As a teacher and good mother to her four children, including the Group Managing Director, Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc, Segun Agbaje, and former Lagos State Governorship Aspirant in Peoples’ Democratic Party, Jimi Agbaje, Mrs. Agbaje spoke with Assistant Business Editor, COLLINS NWEZE, on how to build a good and successful home and the role teachers should play in nation building. Excerpts:

    How does it feel to be 90 years old?

    It is a gift from God. I feel happy. I feel grateful to God. And I am grateful to all those who supported me to reach this age. I am grateful to all those who helped me to find the peace to live up to this age.

    Could you tell us about your journey into the teaching profession and what the experiences were?

    I had an interesting career in teaching. From 1953-1959, I taught Mathematics at my alma mater, Holy Child College, Lagos and simultaneously, I was requested to teach the same subject at Queen’s College Lagos, briefly, after they had lost their own Mathematics teacher in a plane crash. 

    This was when Queen’s College was situated at Onikan on Lagos Island.   I  subsequently taught at St. Joseph’s Teacher Training College, Surulere from January 1960 to January 1971.

    At the request of the then Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, late Archbishop J.K. Aggey, I assumed the position of Headmistress of St. Catherine’s Model School, Surulere where I worked from January 1971 to July 1982.

    After my retirement from St. Catherine’s School in 1982, I went into private business.  I  also became very involved in the activities of the Catholic Women Organisation where I held the positions of President, Lagos Ecclesiastical Province, consisting then of nine dioceses, Vice Chairman Provincial and National Provost. 

    I was married to the late Sir Chief Julius Kosebinu Agbaje  in 1956, an old boy of St. Gregory’s College, Lagos, who was the first indigenous Executive Director of Standard Bank of Nigeria (now First Bank of Nigeria), Pioneer Chairman of Guaranty Trust Bank Plc and Federal Palace Hotels amongst other positions.   The marriage has been blessed with children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

    What was your favorite subject as a teacher?

    I enjoyed teaching all the subjects. We were lucky, when Holy Child College was opened, there were only 30 of us, comprising of two clases of 15 students each.

    We had four Revered Sisters who were expatriates teaching us. Holy Child College was founded in 1945, after the Second World War. And the teachers, were very good. They had no other life than to teach and nurture us to make us to be what we are today.

    In short, it was from there that I decided that if the sisters could be this good at teaching, we also could help our people.

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    What are your thoughts about teaching in those days and what we have today?

    Teachers of today always complain abut their pay package. Teachers of the olden days, be lieved that God would reward them even though the package was small. Today, most teachers  do not want to work. When they teach children in the morning, in the afternoon they keep them in the same classroom, and say they are having lessons and collect money again.

    Look at what is happening. When the teachers finish in the schools they go to the different homes as lesson teachers. We do not need it.

    If you taught very well in the morning, you give them homework based on what was taught the children. That was what we did. The children do not need lessons. My children never went to lesson classes, and they are who they are today.

    But now, they stress children, from morning till six in the evening, children in the primary school are still learning. My children went to Catholic schools, and perhaps, because I was a teacher, if they had difficulties, they might bring them to me; not that I sat them down for two to three hours after school.

    Don’t you think that the approach adopted by teachers of today, has to do with the economic situation in the country?

    And so, what shall we do? Neglect our work?  Do we neglect our work because of  the state of the economy? I know it is difficult, because they are poorly paid. I also think that government should pay teachers something they can live on. At least, we need shelter, food  and clothing. If teachers are not well looked after, then government is not helping them to teach the children. I think government is at fault too.

    Teachers are not well looked after. We did not earn a lot of money in our time as teachers, but life was better. Things were not as difficult as now. They were public transport, and food wasn’t that so expensive. Now, if the market women hear they have increased your salary, the prices of garri will go up because they also take their own portion of the increased salary.

    I think, things will improve, and teachers should have a different attitude to their work. If you do well, your rewards come, although it might be later.

    Many years ago, my students came to my house to help me, but I always  told them I do not need your help. Go back to your schools and support the school. What if I needed help, that is how they would have come.

    But they come in, they said, Mama what can we do for you? But I would say, God looks after me. You go back to that school and do something for the school.

    We know that you were passionate about your job. How did that rub off on grooming your children?

    We closed early and came back to look after our children; unlike today’s workers  that close from work late. Then, teachers came in early, and could still look after their children and the family.

    At our time, our schools did not close late. Closing early helps. You can combine teaching with being a mother.

    Let’s go into your marital life. Tell us how your husband met you and where?

    My husband met me in church. I was very active and always seen as a worker in the church. He also was a person like that. He was a good man, like his children, handsome. And he was getting on well in his career as a banker. He was an accountant by the time we got married. We got married and lived together for over 40 years. Before we got married, they used to call me ‘Miss Teacher’.  If you see all my boys, they are straight and tall.

    If you like them, then you will like my husband. Before we got married, we went to see my grandfather and he said to my husband: “If you don’t drink, then you can have her.”.

    When did you lose your dad?

    I lost my dad early. I was only five, but I knew who he was, because we were very close. He was a good man. Very good man. I had a good father. He was a highly placed civil servant.

    Because he was in such a high position, he could make some provisions for us. So, we were able to go to school.

    Your four children- Femi, Jimi, Mrs. Kofo and Segun. How did they grow up and the role you and your husband played in their early lives?

    You need a family where there is peace and harmony and where the father will be a good guardian of the family. Their father was the one that took decisions on the schools the children attended, and he made sacrifices. He would leave his office at 1.00pm and go to their schools to pick the children up and take them home to have launch because I would come in later.

    He was a good father concerned about his family. Early in the morning, he would ring a small bell and ask the children to come together for payers during the holidays. People were not very happy about it. But you have to be there. We were all there. He could pick on anyone to pray during such mornings. We prayed together. The family that prays together, stays together. You need a good family background. You need a father, a pillar, a guardian and you need a good mother who is submissive to the husband and good mother to the children.

    What are your thoughts about wives that are not submissive to their husbands?

    They have to be submissive. There cannot be two captains in a boat. So, wives should be submissive to their husbands. You have to be submissive to your husband, in all things which are not evil.

    Men have to care for their family. When you get your salary, let your wife know how much you earn. And if you are proud, and you do not want her to know, you have to give her maintenance allowance for the home. Some men do not help in the family. And, they should make sure they have a comfortable place for the family to live in. Anywhere  you live in should be clean. A home where there is love, peace and unity, is a happy home.

    You have very successful children. Tell us about them?

    They started with school. You have to work hard. You also have to work hard when they send you to school. You have to do your best. From your primary school performance, you move on to a good secondary school. Your performance in the secondary school, helps you to move on to the university. In the university, you already have a career, and the father tells them honesty is the best policy. He taught them to be honest. Once they are honest, they will go higher. You see, they are bankers, they won’t go and collect bribe. They won’t be a manager of a bank branch and share with someone who wants to borrow. Not my children. They are absolutely honest.

    We have high rate of divorce in today’s society. What are the causes?

    You know what, those divorces were there before the marriage. Let me tell you. If the woman you married, there is a reason why you should not marry her, you shouldn’t have forced yourself. The background of these divorces were there. You must know your wife and her family and be absolutely sure you want to live with her for the rest of your life. When you take that decision, that is when you need to marry.

    But sometimes, they look at beautiful faces, and take the woman to church. Don’t rush into marriage, later they will be divorced.

    And you look at the mother of the woman you want to marry. Is she a good mother or a bad mother? Be careful. Look at their family before you rush into any marriage.

    And how does being a submissive wife help in having  a successful family?

    You cannot be fighting and boxing each other. You do not have reason for violence in that marriage if the wife is submissive, and the husband is loving. Will there be any reason why there should be violence? Some women come in thinking there is a lot of money in the family, but when they do not get the money, they will be disappointed.

    That your wife, what was she looking for?  Tell her who you are and what you own. Don’t deceive her. Tell her where you work and what you earn.  Some people marry without work or earning salary. When you don’t have a place to stay, and you go and stay in your father’s house, can you marry a wife? Is there accommodation for the family? Does the man have a job, or is he going to depend on my salary as a wife? These are some of the critical questions to answer. A good child does not grow up in a home where parents are fighting each other.

    Do you think parents should play a role in the career path of their children?

    If you decide and the child says no, what will you do? I have a child that wanted to study architecture. Do you know what my husband told him? He said, you will make a good architect, and we know till today, he is passionate about architecture. Even architects come to him, to borrow his magazine. But today, he is not an architect because the Daddy, said: ” I am not a rich man, architects don’t have work all the time. Their work is not regular. If you want some money to look after your family, architecture does not pay now.” And he listened, and now he is successful. 

    Parents should not force a child into a career. You both should discuss together and agree. And if the child says this is what he or she wants to do, at the end, it will be on record that he or she was advised. If my son had become an architect, and did not have money to take care of his family, he will not come to his father. But my children listen.

    Tell us about your birth and childhood?

    I was born at Massey Street Hospital, Lagos Island on the 19th of November 1933 to the family of late Michael Lajuwon Epega, of Ode Remo, Ogun State of Nigeria, a civil servant in the treasury department of the Colonial Civil Service and an old boy of King’s College, Lagos, and Mrs. Sarah Efunwunmi Epega (nee Sowehin), a housewife.   I was the third child and first daughter in a family of four children.

    I  attended primary school at the St. Paul’s Breadfruit School, Lagos Island and was one of the pioneer students of Holy Child College, Ikoyi, Lagos which she attended from 1945-1950 and where she sat for the Cambridge School Certificate.  For my tertiary education, I attended the Holy Child Teacher Training College, Ifuo, Ikot Ekpene, now in Akwa Ibom State from 1951 – 1952.  From 1960-1962, I  also attended the College of Education, Hereford, United Kingdom for further studies in education on a Western Nigeria scholarship. 

  • Minor quarrel with my brother prompted my career as security guard

    Minor quarrel with my brother prompted my career as security guard

    At 50, Adetutu Funmilayo Nelson, could be said to be fulfilled with all the trappings that life could offer. On account of a simple challenge by her brother, she took up a career with security outfit, Corporate Guards, and subsequently rose to the rank of Captain. That job and her love for humanity also gave her the opportunity to join the prestigious Ikoyi Lions Club, where she rose to become president and is currently serving as Zone 2A Chairperson, overseeing several other Lions Clubs. She shared her story with GBOYEGA ALAKA.

    You rose to become captain as a security officer with Corporate Guards. That is some achievement, especially for a lady. Tell us about your journey.

    The journey started in the year 1995 when my late dad, who was then with NMA (National Maritime Authority), came home and mentioned it to my brother who had just finished secondary school. He said there was a security company with uniforms like the American police, and that he should join. As daddy’s girl, I supported the idea. But my brother would not hear of it. He threw it back to me, more like a challenge, that why couldn’t I join? That was how I took up the challenge and joined Corporate Guards.

    What were your initial challenges at finding your feet on the job?

    The training then was tough. I mean really tough. I had to leave Orile Iganmu where I was staying to resume at Ogba in Ikeja for training before 6:30am. There was a day that I almost gave up. That was in September 1995, when I was robbed inside a Molue bus. I had to beg for transport fare to get to Ogba. However, the Commandant, Late Major Imoni, on hearing what happened, gave me the needed encouragement that changed my life. After listening to him, I decided to continue.

    As a female, how easy has the career been?

    It was not easy initially. But my father was a retired soldier and I lived in the barrack. I went to Air force Primary School, Victoria Island, so I had all along been seeing women in uniform and admiring them.

    What’s your advice to young ladies who may want to take up a career in security?

    Take pride in what you do. There is dignity in labour.

    There’s another aspect of you, the humanitarian angle. Tell us about it.

    Yes, I am a member of Lions Club International, the largest humanitarian organisation in the world with over 48,000 Lions Clubs and over 10,000 members in Nigeria. I am currently the Zone 2A Chairperson, which means there are clubs under the zones. This position can only be assumed after one has been a club president. I am a past president of Lagos Ikoyi Lions Club International in 2019/2020.

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    What are your golden moments in the club since joining?

    My first attempt was early 2012, but I stopped because I lost my mum while the rule says you must be present at three meetings non-stop.  I, however, went back in 2013. My first position was as Assistant Secretary before rising to become president after six years. Some of my golden moments would be my investiture day; seeing my boss, Otunba Dr. Olawanle Akinboboye, there made my day.

    Another golden moment for me was the day the club’s core project was commissioned – a Pediatric Cancer Ward at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital. It was a total refurbishing with the help of all our donors and members of Ikoyi Lions Club; not forgetting the ever supportive Lion Alhaja Bintu Tinubu and Otunba Dr Olawanle Akinboboye for his encouragement in that difficult time of COVID-19.

    Tell us more about yourself.

    I am the first of nine children from my parents, Mr. Anthony Kayode and Mrs Amele Ibidun Nelson. I had my primary education at the Nigerian Air Force Primary School, Victoria Island (Lagos). Secondary school was also in Victoria Island and then the University of Lagos. I also have an Advance Diploma in Security Operation and Management from the University of Lagos.

    How do you cope combining your work with the home front as a mother and wife?

    I try to do check and balance here and there.

    And the challenges of social life, parties and club activities?

    All work and no party will make Captain Adetutu a dull girl. So I flow with the social life, just like I flow with work at my work place.

    Do you have any advice for young mothers who may want to veer into social club?

    They should not be distracted by social life, and bear it in mind that they are there to serve the needy.

  • ‘We’re fostering community of empowered women, girls in tech space’

    ‘We’re fostering community of empowered women, girls in tech space’

    Ms. Kelechi Cynthia Udeh is the founder of TechFam, a technology-driven non-profit organisation focused on bridging the gender gap in the tech industry by empowering African women and girls with essential digital skills. She shares her entrepreneurial journey so far, especially her Femme Robotics Competitions, with VICTORIA AMADI.

    Her focus, dynamism and resilient mindset are her staying power in a largely male-dominated technology industry. Added to these attributes is her strong belief that continuous learning and diverse voices contribute to innovation. It is thus easy to see how the founder of TechFam, a technology-driven non-profit organisation focused on bridging the gender gap in the tech industry, Ms. Kelechi Cynthia Udeh, has managed to hold her own in the burgeoning tech world.

    Says the young and dashing tech Amazon, “It’s all about bringing varied perspectives to the table. Embracing challenges as opportunities for growth and recognising the value of a collaborative, inclusive environment empowered me to thrive and make meaningful contributions in the tech space.”

    Indeed, since November 2022 when Udeh threw her hat in the technology space, establishing TechFam, she has been making meaningful contributions in the tech industry by empowering women and young girls with essential digital skills. Her ultimate goal is to foster gender inclusivity; hence, the primary beneficiaries of her impactful projects across Africa are women and girls, particularly those in public schools and the less privileged.

    The aim, she said, is to encourage gender balance in the male-dominated tech industry. 

    Under Udeh’s charge, Femme Robotics competition, one of TechFam’s impactful projects, has been empowering young African women and girls in technology through technical skills and education. Young women and girls have also benefited from reusable sanitary pads, laptops, notepads, smartphones, school bags, water bottles, mathematics sets and certificates of participation in the programme – contributing to their education, empowerment, and exposure to technology in the process.

    Udeh, a seasoned communications specialist, earned a degree in Political Science, from the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) in 2017. She said studying at NOUN, a computer-based school, sparked off her interest in technology. Her subsequent membership at the American Center in 2017, also offered her a conducive environment for tech exploration.

    “I delved into various tech-related courses online, covering communications, web development, graphics design, video editing, and animation,” she told The Nation.

    Her journey into tech entrepreneurship was thus a blend of academic learning and real-world experiences.

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    “My Political Science background equipped me with analytical thinking, while working as a communications specialist honed my strategic communication and leadership skills. Founding TechFam and leading projects on gender mainstreaming provided hands-on experience in tech advocacy. These diverse experiences collectively prepared me for my current career, offering a holistic skill set crucial in navigating the dynamic field of technology and social impact.”

    She, however, had her fair share of challenges, some of which included the initial uncertainties, particularly in handling intricate coding tasks, and hurdles in securing sponsorships for her Femme Robotics competitions.

    “Our major challenge has been securing sponsorship for TechFam’s Femme Robotics competitions and other projects,” she emphasized, adding that as a new organisation, building trust also posed hurdles.

    Explaining how she got round the challenges, she said: “We’ve focused on transparent communication, showcasing the tangible impact of our programs, and actively engaging with potential sponsors. Networking within the tech community, sharing success stories, and demonstrating our commitment to empowering girls in tech has been instrumental in overcoming these challenges and paving the way for sustained growth and impact.”

    Describing the global shift towards tech trend Udeh said: “It is exciting and necessary,” adding that technology has the power to drive innovation, enhance efficiency, and address complex societal challenges.

    “This trend reflects recognition of the transformative potential of tech in shaping the future. It’s an encouraging sign that people are embracing the opportunities that technology provides, fostering a global landscape where digital skills are increasingly valued and integrated into diverse fields.”  

    She noted that the widespread embracing of technology in firms is driven by its ability to enhance efficiency, productivity, and innovation. “Technology streamlines processes, automates tasks, and provides data-driven insights, enabling businesses to stay competitive. The digital transformation also facilitates global connectivity, enabling collaboration and communication.

    “Moreover, the adaptability of technology to various industries allows firms to meet evolving customer’s expectations. Ultimately, the integration of technology is seen as essential for staying agile and relevant in an ever-evolving business landscape,”

    She, however, admitted that within the entrepreneurship space, women-owned businesses still face specific challenges, noting that closing the gender gap in entrepreneurship and politics requires multifaceted efforts. According to her, fostering an inclusive mindset through education and awareness can challenge gender stereotypes.

    “Providing mentorship and financial support specifically tailored for women entrepreneurs can address barriers to entry. In politics, implementing and enforcing policies that promote gender equality, such as quotas, can amplify women’s voices.

    “Encouraging a cultural shift towards recognising and valuing women’s contributions in both sectors is crucial for sustainable change. Collective action involving government, businesses, and society can pave the way for a more equitable future,” Udeh noted.

    On how she balances her heavy workload with the home front, she simply said: “Effective time management and prioritisation. I establish clear boundaries between work and personal time, utilising organisational tools to manage tasks efficiently. Also, delegating responsibilities where possible and fostering open communication with family members, is crucial.”

    Growing up in a small town in the Eastern part of Nigeria, she said, “I initially lacked exposure to technology. However, my university days, computer-based schooling, and joining the American Center in Lagos opened doors to developing my tech skills and ignited my commitment to empowering women in the tech space.”

    Evidently futuristic about her visions and dreams for her organisation, the tech amazon said she is open for more collaboration with government bodies, educational institutions, and tech stakeholders.

    In the next five years, she says: I envision TechFam expanding its reach and impact across various African regions. The organisation will likely deepen its collaborations with educational institutions, governments, and tech industry stakeholders.

    “This expansion may include the introduction of new programs, mentorship initiatives, and strategic partnerships, fostering a broader community of empowered African women and girls in technology.

  • Lagos prince weeps over demolition of shopping complex on land secured by court judgment 79 years ago

    Lagos prince weeps over demolition of shopping complex on land secured by court judgment 79 years ago

    • Come to our aid, embattled royal family members, investors beg Sanwo-Olu 

    • Demolition backed by documents, says new developer

    Lanre Akinsemoyin broke down and wept like a baby as he arrated the ordeal that befell his family on Sunday, August 20, 2023, when a Lagos developer, Saheed Keshinro, allegedly supervised the demolition of a shopping complex at 11 Akinsemoyin Street by Breadfruit Street, Balogun, Lagos.

    Keshinro was allegedly in company of some officials of Lagos State Building Control Agency (LABSCA) and heavily armed policemen whose mission was to pull down a just completed three-story shopping complex comprising shops, offices and open spaces belonging to a consortium of investors anchored by developer and businessman Chidozie Chikelu, the CEO of Good Wave Resources Limited.

    The cry and weeping of traders and investors on the edifice could do nothing to stop the demolition exercise. By the time the dust settled, the N500 million-edifice and N200 million worth of goods had turned into rubble.

    Amidst tears, the great grandson of former Oba of Lagos, Akinsemoyin, who reigned between 1704 and 1749, recalled his ordeal.           

    He said: “On August 20, 2023, to the greatest shock of my life, I witnessed the demolition of a building on our family land, which was legally leased out to Good Wave Resources on a 15-year leasing agreement. Since 1944 when the Supreme Court gave the land to our family, there has never been any contention over it till now.

    “I broke down in tears and struggled to stop them but there were more than 50 policemen preventing people from going near the demolition site. It is a shame that we are being treated this way. We are a royal house of Lagos.

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    “Saheed (Keshinro) supervised the demolition together with some Lagos State officials. How do you want us to live now? The land is an inheritance that has been helping us from generation to generation. We need Mr. Governor to come to our aid.”

    Prince Akinsemoyin said not even a court injunction obtained by the family to stop further activity on the land had yielded any result.

    He said: “A few days after the demotion exercise, the site was quickly cleared and another project commenced on it in spite of a court injunction forbidding further activity on the land.

    Throwing more light on the issue, Gbenga’s elder brother, Oyeku Akinsemoyin, said:  “We went to court immediately after the demolition and got an injunction. But despite a subsisting court injunction forbidding further activity or development on the land, the said Keshinro has continued to work on the land; something we all view as unbridled impunity.”

    Emeka Ejiogu, a filmmaker and representative of the developer, said that due diligence was done and clearance secured before construction commenced on the site in February 2023.

    Ejiogu said: “We are not only surprised that our building was so wickedly brought down in a manner eliciting much suspicion, we are shocked that the authorities who declared it off limits for our use would allow Keshinro to build on it.

    “The developer had approached the Akinsemoyin family in 2021, requesting a lease that would enable him to erect a shopping complex at the then-vacant land. He then applied to the Lagos State Government for approval and a permit to build on the land.

    “The whole exercise was painstaking and it followed due process. The status of the land was run through the appropriate channels and found to be free from previous acquisition and encumbrances that could render it ineligible to be sold or leased before granting the developer concession to access the land.

    “A letter from the office of the State Surveyor-General dated July 13, 2021, with reference number OSG 272/2022/VOLX/64, and signed by the duo of Tejuosho Adenike. A (Mrs) on behalf of the Surveyor General Lagos State, gave the approval for the building to commence.

    “It was after this that the job took off in February 2023 and was finished in August 2023.

    “The demolition came as a rude shock to all of us. Many traders had gone to great lengths to adorn their shops with decorations and fittings and stock them with goods. Some have lost everything.

    “Keshinro is not only defying the court ruling, he has been heard claiming that he had the verbal backing of Governor Sanwo-Olu in pulling down the building. “In the light of this, we are calling on the governor to help us on the matter once and for all. We also want salient questions asked agencies of government like LABSCA that appear to have been implicated in this matter to be answered.

    “We are not certain that the governor, known for his respect for the rule of law and an astute defender of the rights of the less privileged, would order the demolition of a building of such economic importance to the people.”

    When contacted, Keshinro said he had the necessary papers to build on the site.

    He said: “We cannot just go onto a land and begin to demolish and build without having the necessary papers. We have shown the family the papers but some of them don’t want to believe us. As for LABSCA, they are simply carrying out a subsisting order.”

    Confronted with a court injunction ordering that the status quo be maintained, Keshinro said he had not received any such order.

    “We are always on site and we are yet to see any court official serving us any injunction,” he said.  

    The traders also came out in their numbers to speak out against the unlawful and wanton demolition of the complex built from the sweat of their labour and demanded urgent intervention from the governor.

    Brandishing posters and placards condemning the wanton destruction, with some of them calling on Governor Sanwo-Olu to intervene in the matter, the traders carried out a peaceful protest along Kakawa in Broad Street to drive home their point.

    So, why did they not come out to speak before now? Ejiogu said they had been meeting with Lagos officials who have been appealing to them to be calm.

    “We realised that they have been deceiving us because work was going on at the site and that is why we came out to speak for Mr. Governor to come to our aid.”

    At the time of filing this report, LABSCA is yet to react to questions from the reporter.