The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sunday magazine

  • Golden Terra Oil shines at LAIF awards

    Golden Terra Oil shines at LAIF awards

    Golden Terra Soya Oil shone brightest at the weekend at the 19th edition of the highly coveted Lagos Advertising & Idea Festival (LAIF) Awards.

    Themed “Staying A’LAIF,” the festival brought together the best minds in the Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC) industry, but Golden Terra wasn’t just part of the celebration; it became the story of the night.

    The brand’s groundbreaking Pour Pure Love campaign not only dominated conversations but also earned the prestigious Best Campaign of the Year Award in the FMCG category. This recognition placed Golden Terra in a league of its own, celebrating the power of a message that resonated deeply with audiences across Nigeria.

    The Pour Pure Love campaign went beyond marketing, it was a movement. By emphasising themes of care, togetherness, and nourishment, the campaign spoke directly to the heart of the Nigerian family. It reminded everyone that meals are not just sustenance but moments of bonding and expressions of love. From its visually captivating storytelling to its culturally relevant messaging, Pour Pure Love showcased Golden Terra’s commitment to enriching lives, one meal at a time.

    Lanre Adisa, President of the Advertising Agencies Association of Nigeria (AAAN), highlighted the importance of such campaigns during his opening remarks, calling the LAIF Awards a platform that “celebrates dreams and creativity that inspire the world.” Golden Terra’s Pour Pure Love campaign was a perfect embodiment of this vision, bringing authenticity, innovation, and heart to the forefront of Nigerian advertising.

    Read Also: Nigeria, China $2bn currency swap renewal deal to strengthen bilateral trade – DG Tegbe

    Reflecting on the campaign’s success, Probal Bhattacharya, Chief Marketing Officer, TGI Group said, ” ‘Pour Pure Love’ is a testament to our belief that a brand can do more than just sell a product. It’s about crafting stories that resonate with people’s lives and aspirations. This campaign pays homage to the world’s moms, celebrating the warm, delicious meals that nourish not only our bodies but also our souls. Winning the Best Campaign of the Year Award underscores the authentic connections the ‘Pour Pure Love’ campaign fosters, evoking nostalgia and a deep appreciation for a mother’s love. Clearly, our brand messaging struck a powerful chord.”

    This historic win was complemented by Golden Terra’s additional accolades, including Best Film in the Food and Consumables Category, further solidifying the brand’s status as an industry leader. The awards not only recognised creative excellence but also celebrated a campaign that inspired and uplifted.

    As Golden Terra continues to pour love and creativity into every endeavor, this milestone serves as both a celebration and a challenge to aim even higher. With its legacy now written in LAIF history, the brand looks ahead with renewed commitment to creating campaigns that not only stand out but also make a difference.

    Golden Terra Soya Oil is a premium, all-purpose cooking oil made from 100% pure soya beans, sourced and manufactured in Nigeria. It contains 5x more PUFA (Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids) proven to deliver numerous health benefits, like reducing cholesterol, maintaining a healthier heart, enhancing nerve function, boosting brain health, and supporting muscle strength. Discerning consumers trust Golden Terra Soya Oil to bring an unmatched balance of Taste & Health to every dish cooked with it. Available in various sizes, including 45ml and 1000ml pouches, 700ml and 1.4L bottles, and 2.5L, 4.5L, and 25L kegs.

  • Patricia Technologies begins repayment to customers

    Patricia Technologies begins repayment to customers

    In another demonstration of its resilience and commitment to its subscribers, Patricia Technologies, a leading financial services technology firm based in Lagos, has commenced actual repayment to its subscribers who were affected by a reported security breach suffered on its cryptocurrency trading platform.

    This development marks a significant step forward in the firm’s effort at restoration for its affected customers.

    Earlier in the year, Patricia Technologies had requested for a two to five-year repayment window to enable it generate sizeable income from business operations and law enforcement recovery effort, for the purpose of repaying customers and consequently, rebuilding trust.

    Patricia Technologies experienced a major cyberattack in 2022, which resulted in the loss of depositors’ funds amounting to over N600 million. In the intervening period after the security breach, Patricia temporarily restricted withdrawals on its platform to protect the interests of its users, and promptly petitioned the Inspector General of Police to report the alleged theft.

    “We understand the impact this incident has had on our customers and we are delighted that the journey to restoration has finally started,” said Hanu Fejiro, a technology innovation expert, and CEO at Patricia Technologies.

    Following a thorough investigation by the National Cybercrime Center of the Nigeria Police (NPF-NCCC), the Police recorded a major breakthrough in the case with the arrest of Wilfred Bonse, a prominent politician, and three other suspects in November 2023. A development that vindicated Patricia Technologies.

    Read Also: Nigeria, China $2bn currency swap renewal deal to strengthen bilateral trade – DG Tegbe

    While the perpetrators of the cybercrime are currently being brought to book, Patricia Technologies has kept to its words by beginning the disbursement of funds to the first batch of affected subscribers as part of a phased repayment process. The repayment effort, which started on December 10, 2024, is expected to continue in the coming months as all affected users will receive their funds in subsequent batches.

    Subscribers that are getting paid in this phase, have since been officially notified by email. One of the subscribers with initials BP (for purposes of confidentiality), expressed appreciation and satisfaction with being paid by Patricia via an email reaction: “I really appreciate your effort. Though it took a long time, I’m satisfied with what I’ve received. Thank you for keeping to your words.”

    On his part, Hanu reiterated that the interests of subscribers remain Patricia’s top priority. “This repayment process represents a milestone in the fulfilment of our commitment to making things right for them. We appreciate their patience, understanding, and trust in Patricia as we hope that this refund brings them joy during this festive period,” Hanu further said.

  • MFM donates food to widows, less privileged

    MFM donates food to widows, less privileged

    Members of Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries(MFM) Onitsha Mega Regional axis have
    donated food items to vulnerable persons, widows and less privileged to ameliorate their suffering.

    The Church also fixed Isiokwe Bus stop Street Road junction pot holes as part of her Corporate Social Responsibility(CSR) programmes

    According to the Mega Regional Overseer (MRO) MFM Onitsha Mega Regional axis, Pastor Christopher Kolawole, the church believes in God’s command to feed the poor, provide for the widows and take care of the less privileged.

    Kolawole stressed the kind gesture was also part of the Explosive Evangelism Initiative (EEI), adding the General Overseer, Dr. Daniel Kolawole Olukoya had instructed that all MFM churches should touch lives positively, spiritually through different Evangelism programmes and Physically through different Corporate Social Responsibility programmes.

    The MRO explained that the church gave 500 bags of (10kg) rice and 100 cartons of Spaghetti to about 100 widows and 350 less privileged , each going home with minimum of 30kg Rice and Spaghetti .

    He added that earlier in the year 600bags of 10kg rice was equally shared to widows and less-privileged, while ten thousand naira each was given to fifty families to put food on their tables

    Read Also: Akande calls for establishment of more medical institutions to tackle brain drain

    His words: ” This is an annual event/activities of the church to ameliorate economic situation.”

    Kolawole revealed that the existence of MFM in Onitsha and its environs has brought drastic change physically and spiritually through its deliverance prayers, biblical teachings, entrepreneurial seminars, skills acquisition and empowerment programs to mention a few.

    He added that the church has helped in bridging unemployment gap in the country by training several youths , young adults , men and women on small scale importation without stress at the comfort of their homes, how ro produce paint , soap and other skills which can make them financial independent, as well as employer of labour.

    Beneficiaries testified that the rice, spaghetti, yams and other food items would go along way for their families this Yuletide.

    “We thank MFM for what they have done for us, they have done so well, we appreciate them and may God bless them.

    “It’s not easy for the poor, look at the crowd here, if not for MFM, what will be our hope? What we have received can take us for weeks,” one of them said.

    MFM donates food to widows 4
  • ‘Silence sounds of arms’ for peace to reign, Pope urges leaders

    ‘Silence sounds of arms’ for peace to reign, Pope urges leaders

    Pope Francis has in his traditional Christmas message urged “all people of all nations” to find courage during this Holy Year “to silence the sounds of arms and overcome divisions” plaguing the world, from the Middle East to Ukraine, Africa to Asia.

    The pontiff’s “Urbi et Orbi” — “To the city and the world” — address yesterday served as a summary of the woes facing the world this year.

    As Christmas coincided with the start of the 2025 Holy Year celebration that he dedicated to hope, Francis called for broad reconciliation, “even (with) our enemies.”

     “I invite every individual, and all people of all nations … to become pilgrims of hope, to silence the sounds of arms and overcome divisions,” the pope said from the loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica to throngs of people below.

    The pope invoked the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica, which he opened on Christmas Eve to launch the 2025 Jubilee, as representing God’s mercy, which “unties every knot; it tears down every wall of division; it dispels hatred and the spirit of revenge.”

    Read Also: We are winning war against oil thieves, says Army Chief 

    He called for arms to be silenced in war-torn Ukraine and in the Middle East, singling out Christian communities in Israel and the Palestinian territories, “particularly in Gaza where the humanitarian situation is extremely grave,” as well as Lebanon and Syria “at this most delicate time”.

    Francis repeated his calls for the release of hostages taken from Israel by Hamas on Oct. 7, 2023.

    He cited a deadly outbreak of measles in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the suffering of the people of Myanmar, forced to flee their homes by “the ongoing clash of arms.” The Pope likewise remembered children suffering from war and hunger, the elderly living in solitude, those fleeing their homelands, who have lost their jobs and are persecuted for their faith.

    Pilgrims were lined up on Christmas Day to walk through the great Holy Door at the entrance of St. Peter’s Basilica, as the Jubilee is expected to bring some 32 million Catholic faithful to Rome.

    Traversing the Holy Door is one way that the faithful can obtain indulgences or forgiveness for sins during a Jubilee, a once-every-quarter-century tradition that dates from 1300.

    Pilgrims submitted to security controls before entering the Holy Door, amid new security fears following a deadly Christmas market attack in Germany. Many paused to touch the door as they passed and made the sign of the cross upon entering the basilica dedicated to St. Peter, the founder of the Roman Catholic Church.

  • Invest in choirs to enhance worship, cleric urges church leaders

    Invest in choirs to enhance worship, cleric urges church leaders

    The Presbyter of Wesley Cathedral Olowogbowo, Lagos, Very Rev Adesola Kuyebi, has called on church leaders to prioritise musical education and the growth of their choirs to ensure impactful worship and ministry.

    Kuyebi made this appeal at the church’s 101st Annual Choir Festival, themed Sing Unto The Lord. 

    He underscored the centrality of music in worship, describing it as a vital tool for fostering spiritual connection.

    “Well-trained choirs elevate the worship experience by delivering music with precision, harmony, and emotional depth, helping congregants connect more deeply with God,” he said.

    Reflecting on the spiritual and historical significance of music, Rev. Kuyebi highlighted the deep connection between Methodism and music, citing the legacy of its founders, Reverend John Wesley and Reverend Charles Wesley.

    “Methodism is synonymous with music because our progenitors in the faith were not just preachers but also singers,” he stated, praising Charles Wesley, who wrote over 8,000 hymns that continue to shape worship in Methodism and beyond.

    The Presbyter urged the congregation to reflect on their musical heritage, questioning whether today’s church music aligns with its original intent. 

    He called for a return to the authentic spirit of Methodism, rooted in classical hymns and melodies that uplift the soul.

    “Of all the things God created, music is the one thing that never dies,” he noted, emphasising its timeless role in worship.

    Rev. Kuyebi also expressed optimism about the future of Wesley Cathedral’s choir, which has flourished for over a century. 

    He commended the younger generation of choristers for their dedication and ability to blend traditional and contemporary influences, keeping the choir vibrant.

    Engineer Bayo, a Patron of Wesley Cathedral, also addressed the festival, reflecting on the choir’s enduring legacy.

    “It’s symbolic that I have had the privilege to witness the choir’s centennial milestone, even though I was born much later. It’s a testament to the enduring tradition of this great choir,” he remarked.

    Bayo acknowledged the challenges faced by the choir and the church community but stressed the importance of the annual festival as a platform to celebrate and appreciate the choir’s talent and dedication.

    “This festival gives us an opportunity to appreciate the choir purely for their music. It’s not about leading a service but about creating a space to truly listen and be uplifted by their melodies,” he said

  • Limoblaze at The Experience spells progress for Afrogospel

    Limoblaze at The Experience spells progress for Afrogospel

    The 19th edition of The Experience Lagos, Africa’s biggest annual music gospel concert hosted by House On the Rock church, under Pastor Paul Adefarasin has in the past hosted a wide array of gospel artistes from all walks of life.

    The event had its stage graced by the likes of Cece Winans, to Tye Tribbett, Kirk Franklin, Chandler Moore, Travis Greene, Nathaniel Bassey, Dunsin Oyekan, Tim Godfrey and in the last edition, Limoblaze.

    Before and even after relocating to the United Kingdom, Limoblaze has never not made giant strides as an urban gospel artist. But most recently is his performance at The Experience 19, alongside his label boss, Lecrae.

    When speaking about the inclusion of a representative of the Afrogospel genre – an afrobeats subgenre with a Christian message – at The Experience, Pastor Paul Adefarasin established how important it is to carry the coming generation along in the things of God. In his words, ‘this is why Limoblaze was invited. He represents that population, and this is an avenue to point that demography towards the things of the Kingdom’.

    The artiste went on to perform some of his most familiar songs like ‘Jireh’, a sample of a Maverick City hit, featuring Lecrae and Happi. He also got the crowd going with newer songs off his latest album “Young & Chosen”.

    In all, for Limoblaze, he’s just grateful for another opportunity to share his beliefs with the younger generation through music.

    “Jesus still wins over the world, and I find purpose in simply being a vessel he uses to reach out to his children through music.”

    Once again, this moment stands as an affirmation for the entire afrogospel community. It’s a declaration that this genre, which was once overlooked and heavily criticised, has found its place on the main stage.

  • Debtor industrialist hires soldiers to brutalise artisan for demanding payment

    Debtor industrialist hires soldiers to brutalise artisan for demanding payment

    • Victim forced to write undertaking, slumps, hospitalised

    • Factory owner: I acted because he threatened me

    A Lagos based welder and metal fabricator collapsed and was rushed to the hospital shortly after he was brutalised by soldiers at the instance of an Ogun factory owner who allegedly defaulted payment for welding work executed at the factory and seized the artisan’s tools box and welding equipment, reports KUNLE AKINRINADE. 

    Lukmon Bisiriyu’s body ached with wounds on his reclining bed at  a hospital, in the Ojokoro area of Lagos State penultimate Saturday. Too weak to speak, his mother became his spokesperson, sharing an ugly encounter he had with some soldiers who allegedly manhandled him at the instance of a factory owner for whom he was contracted to install some machines at a factory in Mowe area of neighbouring Ogun State.

    Narrating the circumstances that culminated in the ugly fate that befell Lukmon, his distraught mother said: “My son was invited by a factory owner to work somewhere in Mowe area of Ogun State.

    “He went back to the factory to pick the tools he left behind only for the company owner to invite soldiers to beat him up simply because my son demanded full payment of his fees.

    “After subjecting him to cruel flogging for several hours, he slumped and we had to rush him to this hospital.

    “I thank God that he is recovering, but I am crying out for justice over the cruelty that was meted out to my son by the man that hired him to do a job for him.”

    Sharing his plight and the events that led to his plight in barely audible tone, Lukmon, a welder cum metal fabricator, said he was contracted by the owner of Rev Food and Beverages Limited at Kajola Street near Redemption Camp on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Mowe, Ogun State, Mr. Terrence Erhunmwunnsee, a few weeks ago.

    The 37-year-old artisan explained that he struck a bargain of N600,000 fees for his services with the company’s owner for welding works involving the installation of some machines at the factory.

    He said of the agreed sum of N600,000, he was paid the sum of N400,000, leaving a balance of N200,000. He said after the work was completed, he left his tools behind because it was too late to go home with them.

    Lukmon said a few days later, he received an alert of N74,000 on his phone only for Erhunmwunnsee to call his mobile phone a few hours later to say that the said sum was sent to him in error.

    The artisan said he explained to Erhunmwunnsee that the money came in at a time his wife was very sick and that he should please consider it as part payment for the sum of N200,000 that was outstanding. But he said the industrialist was furious, tongue-lashed him on the phone and vowed to deal with him.

    Lukmon said: “I was engaged for welding works at the factory preparatory to the installation of production machines there.

    Read Also: Strengthening Nigeria’s Fight Against Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Through Student Stewardship Programs

    “We had agreed on N600,000 as the fee for my services. He paid me N400,000 in bits and I moved my tools and welding equipment to the factory site.

    ”On completing my work, I demanded the payment of the outstanding sum of N200,000 and he pleaded that I should give him a little time to sort things out since I had just introduced another artisan that was to fix a storage tank for the factory.

    ”It was late when I was leaving the factory, so I left my tools and welding equipment behind because he explained that we would start the second phase of the work in a few days.

    “I told him that I would return to pick the tools box and  welding equipment at a later date and he did not object to the idea.”  

    Lukman said he was pleasantly surprised when he received a credit alert of N74,000 from the man, thinking that it was a tranche of the N200,000 balance.

    He said: ”When I demanded payment of the balance of my fees, which was N200,000, in order to pay for my sick wife’s treatment, the man begged me to give him some time to sort it out. He promised to pay me before long, and I left the factory.

    ”A few days later, I received a credit alert of N74,000 from him and I thought that he sent the money as part of the N200,000 he was owing me.

    “The money came at a time my wife was on admission in the hospital, so I quickly spend a large percentage of it to clear her medical bill.

    “The next day, I received a call from him, asking me to send the money back to him or prepare for a showdown, saying that the money was sent to me in error.

    “I told him that he should remove the said amount from the balance of N200,000 he was owing me, but he was just not listening to me as he ranted on the phone.”

    Lukman said on December 8, 2024, he visited the factory to pick up his tools box and welding equipment only for the factory owner to lock the gates, invited three soldiers in military camouflage and instructed them to beat him up. He said the soldiers in question were led by one Sikiru.

    Lukmon said: “The soldiers invited by the company’s owner, Mr. Terrence Erhunmwunnsee mercilessly beat me up. They asked me to lie down facing the sun and flogged me with a belt.

    “They accused me of barging into Erhunmwunnsee’s factory to pick my tools and equipment without informing him. The soldiers stripped me and my wife’s brother and flogged us from 9 am to 4pm.

    “My wife begged Erhunmwunnsee for hours before he later asked the soldiers to release us with a caveat that we must write an undertaking forbidding us from tarnishing his company’s image or his own image and that we would refrain from taking any action to seek redress in any guise.

    “That was when they released us with the tools and equipment we gone to pick from the factory.

    “He also asked the soldiers to force us to write that I was owing him the sum of N174,000 when in actual fact he is the one that has failed to pay me the sum of N200,000 as the balance for my services.

    “I was being whipped by the soldiers as I wrote the undertaking they dictated to me.

    “On getting home, I slumped and was rushed to this hospital.

    “As I speak to you, my body is aching seriously.

    “Please, sir, help me. I desire justice.”

    Speaking with our correspondent on the telephone, Erhunwunsee, who allegedly invited the soldiers to brutalise Lukmon, said the artisan visited his factory without informing him and also threatened his life.

    Erhunmwunnsee said: He broke into my factory on a Sunday (December 8) with two others (his wife and brother-in-law) and he threatened my life.

    “I had to run out of the factory.”

    Asked why he resorted to inviting soldiers to intervene in the dispute, Erhunwunsee retorted: “Would I have allowed him to kill me? The question as to whether I invited soldiers or not is out of it.

    “I have since reported the matter to the police and they are looking for him. You better tell him to show up.

    “Besides, my lawyer has asked me not to entertain any question or speak with journalists about the matter.

    “I cannot even speak further with you because I don’t know you.”

    A copy of the undertaking extracted from Lukmon under duress by the soldiers reads in part: “…that I Lukmon Bisiriyu Akande on the 8th of December, 2024 came with my wife and brother (in-law) about 9.15 am and broke into the factory and processing room to collect my welding machine that was seized by the company because I am owing N174,000 for double transfer made to me…

    “I hereby undertake that from today December 8, 2024, if anything happen (sic) to the chairman, the MD, the family (sic) and workers and all the machines, I will be held responsible…

    “I also undertake not to invite my friends and family members to put the company in bad light…and that I have been given my welding equipment back intact…”

    In a twist, one of the soldiers called Lukmon on the phone, urging him not to escalate the matter in the media.

    In an audio recording of the conversation obtained by our correspondent, the soldier identified as Sikiru told Lukmon in Yoruba to leave everything to God.

    The soldier said: “Lukmon, why did you want to escalate the matter again after the man (Erhunwunsee) said we should leave you and release your equipment to you?

    “Why can’t you leave everything to God even if he has cheated you?

    “I know that I was wrong too and you would remember that at a point I was pleading with him to let us soft-pedal in brutalising you.

    “That was why I decided to flog your feet at a point.

    “You should not have involved your wife in the matter at all, and that was what got the man (Erhunwunsee) angry.

    “Remember that you wrote an undertaking not to escalate the matter. So, ask your family members to let the matter slide as the undertaking you made could be used against you, because you came to the factory on a Sunday when the factory was not in operation.

    “I wasn’t even the one that dissuaded the man from calling the police or getting the police involved in the matter.

    “Please, as soldier and a Muslim brother, I urge you to take what has happened to you or the beating in good faith and let it slide.

    “I even asked Allah to forgive me for intervening in the manner I did…because I had been to Mecca for pilgrimage.

    “I am a native of Ilorin.

    “What else do you want us to do for you? After all we let go of your brother-in-law when we discovered that he was your in-law, and we asked him to put on his shirt after he was stripped.

    “The man just called me on the phone now, saying that you had reported the matter to the media and that you want to escalate the matter.

    “So, you don’t need to escalate the matter at all.

    “You may send me your mother’s phone number so that I can talk to her to stop the matter from being escalated.”

  • How POS platforms are transforming digital payments in rural Nigeria

    How POS platforms are transforming digital payments in rural Nigeria

    In many rural areas across Nigeria, poor network connectivity and the lack of bank services are hindering efficient financial transactions.  These have forced people to often depend on Point-of-Sale (POS) platforms to meet their financial needs. In this report, Justina Asishana explores the impact of such a payment system in some communities in Niger and Sokoto states.

    Limited access to banks

    In the Lavun Local Government Area of Niger State, there is only one bank, the United Bank for Africa (UBA), which is located at the local government headquarters, Kutigi.

    The local government, which has about 13 communities, rely on POS services for their financial transactions.

    They are able to send and receive money from different parts of the country, buy mobile data and transact business.

    Travelling to the bank incurs significant transportation costs, making banking often unattractive.

    Haruna Mohammed from Danchitagi community, however, said POS payment systems have come in handy. 

    “We appreciate the POS a lot because they help us. We are too far from the bank. If you want to go to the UBA, it is about 75 km and we pay about N3,000 to N4,000 for transportation.

    “Without POS, we would not have been able to survive financially in this community. Our relatives outside the community can send us money and we receive it from the POS.”

    In Sokoto State, several of the banks are in the centre of the town, which is between 50 to 75 kilometers from several communities in Sokoto’s main town.

    Usman Alerio from Gagi community said when it comes to financial transactions, going to the POS is easier for them in the community than going to the banks. “It is close to us and it serves us. It is easier than going to the bank. It reduces the cost of transportation. It favours me. In this community, there are no banks nearby. Most of the banks are in the centre of the city, POS is better than going to the banks.”

    72-year-old Yusuf Muhammad in Tamadi community in Sokoto State said his three children live outside Sokoto. Yet he said he had yet to step into banks since his account was opened, as he receives money his children sent to him through the POS.

    “I don’t bother to go to the bank. As far as my ATM card is still valid and I know my PIN, I can withdraw my money from the POS people. It is easy and better for me.”

    Denis Felix in Tamadi community said that services from the POS are fast and easy because there is no bank in his community: “To access a bank, you may have to transport yourself from Tamade to the town which will cost like N2,000. I prefer to go to the POS because it is preferable; I go to the bank once in a while.”

    Read Also: FoodCo gifts borehole to Ibadan community

    Impact on daily lives

    POS services are integral to the economic activities of these communities. In areas like Rigi Sambo and Tudun Wada, they support business transactions and personal financial needs, including receiving money from relatives. Without POS service, many residents say they would face significant hardship.

    POS helps in bridging the financial digital divide, as they connect remote communities to digital payment ecosystems, fostering financial inclusion and economic growth. POS technology streamlines transactions and boosts local enterprises.

    POS is working to close the financial exclusion gap in communities that might have been left behind in the digital revolution.

    Challenges with POS systems

    Despite their reliance on POS machines, residents highlighted the need to improve network connectivity and reduce failed cash transactions and cash availability.

    Residents and POS operators alike face challenges. Poor network connectivity often disrupts transactions, leaving customers with debits that do not reflect on one of the parties’ systems.

    Abdullahi Musa from the Jima community said using POS becomes frustrating when transactions fail. “There are times when you want to withdraw money and your account will be debited, but on the POS, it will show as unsuccessful. That has happened to me. Sometimes they tell me to wait for 24 or 28 hours; that it would be reverted; but after waiting without it being reverted, I would have to go to the bank to file a complaint, so that it can be reimbursed.”

    Adejo Joseph, a POS Operator in the Tudun Wada community in Sokoto noted that these days, there is cash scarcity and a lack of adequate network connectivity, which sometimes makes it difficult for him to conduct transactions.

    “These days, even in banks, you cannot withdraw a certain amount; but from us, the withdrawal limit is addressed as the people can get more money from the POS. Another challenge we face includes declined transactions, where the customer is debited but we are not credited. Sometimes, it becomes very rowdy. Telling them that they will need to make a complaint at the bank is challenging. Then also network problems from network providers and from the banks are often frustrating.”

    The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in 2018 directed all banks to refund all failed electronic transactions within 24 hours, but several people who spoke to the reporter said their monies were not refunded until they went to the banks to make complaints.

    Solutions

    Ubanjin Ahmed, a financial expert in Minna, said POS has increased financial inclusion down to the last mile customer, regardless of geographical location; adding that the coming of POS to communities has helped in fostering digital financial inclusion and that the POS terminals enhance seamless cashless transactions, boosting digital public goods (DPG) adoption.

    The Head of Digital Skills and Services in the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC), Hauwa Wakili, while speaking to MFWA DPI Journalism Fellows during its training in Abuja, said that broadband penetration is still at, as of October 2024, 42 per cent, saying that the NCC is working to achieve a national broadband plan of 70 per cent by 2025.

    She said sometimes lack of connectivity is caused by vandalisation, which is a big menace in the telecom sector.

    “Sometimes, when we experience this lack of connectivity, quite often, it is as a result of vandalisation activities. The vandalisation is not only to fibre cuts, but also to base stations, and to towers. That is how bad it is.

    “It is so rampant. We experience about 24,000 fibre cuts in one year, which makes it 65 fibre cuts in a day. One fibre cut in a state could affect another or even regions. It could have a ripple effect in regions. And so, you have that downtime.

    She stated that the fibre cuts also affect the quality of service, lamenting that it has been increasing over the years and it is a very big challenge for the telecoms industry and consumers who use telecoms services, as several of them would not be able to transfer or receive money or engage in any financial transactions when this giver cuts occur.

    This report is produced under the DPI Africa Journalism Fellowship Programme of the Media Foundation for West Africa and Co-Develop.

  • Gowon, Obasanjo laud Jos Christmas carol

    Gowon, Obasanjo laud Jos Christmas carol

    •Say it’s vehicle for strengthening unity

    Sons and daughters of Plateau State recently gathered in Jos, to celebrate this year’s Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carols and Praise Festival. The event heralded a new Plateau of love and unity, in contrast to its past era of conflicts and disunity. Our Jos Correspondent KOLADE ADEYEMI captured the spiritual significance of the event.

    Plateau State and its people have gone through its dark days. Days when the people went through the flame of internal crisis; days when people of other states dreaded coming to Jos; when killings and bloodshed painted the streets of Jos and when residents pack their belongings and fled Jos overnight.

    The good news today, however, is that despite those dark days, Plateau remains its good old self – ‘a Home of Peace and Tourism’. Only few societies have gone through such tumultuous times and remain standing. So what has been the secret? The answer is persistent prayer and faith in God. After all, the name JOS means JESUS OUR SAVIOR.

    The past experiences especially such witnessed under the era of Senator Jonah Jang (2007-2015) must have informed the then governor to initiate a worship center known as “The Ten Commandments” located in Doi, Jos South Local Government. And since then, the people have gathered there to worship and pray to God Almighty once in a year.

    But this year’s edition was different. It was attended by two former heads of state/presidents in the persons of Gen Yakubu Gowon and Gen Olusegun Obasanjo. The 3-day worship, praise and prayer programme obviously signified a launching of the state into her better and brighter future.

    The prophetic gathering on 29th November – 1st December tagged: “Plateau State Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carols and Praise Festival” was a moment for worship and as well as a celebration of victory over adversaries.

    Read Also: Strengthening Nigeria’s Fight Against Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Through Student Stewardship Programs

    The event, which was organised by the Plateau State Government in collaboration with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), was intentionally timed to usher in the Christmas season in celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.

    In his address, Gen. Yakubu Gowon expressed gratitude to the Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, for organising the event. He emphasised the importance of unity, prayer, and peace, not only for Plateau State but for Nigeria and the world at large. Gowon also reflected on his experiences as a leader and the need for harmony among people of different faiths, urging Nigerians to embrace peace and reconciliation.

    Governor Caleb Mutfwang, in his remarks, highlighted the significance of unity in fulfilling Plateau State’s destiny as a land of promise and blessings; calling on citizens to come together under one purpose, emphasising the role of faith in fostering peace and progress. The Governor further expressed hope that the festival would become a symbol of unity and a platform to promote Plateau as a beacon of light for the nation.

    The festival continued on its second day with a heartfelt keynote address by former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, who underscored the transformative power of love in fostering peace and unity. 

    Speaking at the 10 Commandments Altar in Du, Chief Obasanjo emphasised that love is the foundation for harmonious relationships and the antidote to conflicts. He urged attendees to embrace love as a unifying force, saying, “Where there’s love, there won’t be conflict.” 

    Obasanjo linked many of Nigeria’s challenges to the absence of understanding and compassion, highlighting how love enables individuals to appreciate diversity while focusing on shared values. “God’s gift of diversity is for identity, but our common humanity is what unites us,” he remarked.

    He commended Governor Mutfwang for initiating the Festival, which he described as a platform for unity and spiritual reflection.

    Mutfwang, on his part, reaffirmed the festival’s vision of uniting people under a shared purpose of peace and progress, urging the people to rise above divisions and focus on the collective goal of a prosperous future.

    Chairman of the Plateau State Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Reverend Polycarp Lubo, added a spiritual dimension to the event, citing Isaiah 7:14 to highlight the fulfillment of God’s promise through Christ’s birth. He called on Christians to live as “lights of the world” and to use singing and worship as expressions of faith and hope. 

    The three-day event, hosted at the iconic 10 Commandments Altar in Du, Jos South Local Government Area, drew a massive crowd of over 15,000 attendees, including dignitaries, religious leaders, and Christian faithful from across Plateau State and beyond.

    The event, a flagship initiative of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has been widely praised for fostering unity and promoting peace among diverse communities in Plateau State.

    Notable national figure that also graced the occasion include former Plateau State Governor, Senator Jonah David Jang; the Gbong Gwom Jos, HRH Da Jacob Gyang Buba; and former Plateau Governor, Chief Joshua Chibi Dariye, underscoring the importance of unity and reconciliation in Nigeria’s sociopolitical landscape.

    In his exhortation, former Anglican Bishop Benjamin Kwashi highlighted the significance of the gospel’s deep roots in Plateau State, calling on Christians to remain steadfast in faith amid challenges. Reflecting on the second coming of Jesus Christ, he urged believers to prepare for this reality while emphasising the gospel’s power to overcome sin and suffering.

    In his remarks, Governor Caleb Mutfwang expressed gratitude to the dignitaries and attendees who graced the event. He emphasised the carol’s purpose of fostering unity among the people of Plateau, irrespective of denominational differences.

    “As we grow in our faith and spiritual maturity, achieving unity will become easier. This event is not just about celebrating Christmas; it is about planting seeds of peace and reconciliation that will transform not only the church but also the state’s economy and our relationships with one another,” Governor Mutfwang stated.

    General Yakubu Gowon lauded Governor Mutfwang for organising such a unique and impactful programme. He described the carol as a unifying force and expressed confidence in its potential to grow into a globally recognised festival.

    Former President Olusegun Obasanjo echoed similar sentiments, describing the carol as a seed sown for the future.

    Senator Jonah David Jang described the event as prophetic, aligning with God’s plan for a “new Plateau” and a “new Nigeria,” while the Gbong Gwom Jos, HRH Da Jacob Gyang Buba, stressed the importance of peace in Plateau State, urging Governor Mutfwang to lead with justice and courage in the face of challenges.

    Similarly, Chief Joshua Dariye commended the visionary leadership that brought the Unity Christmas Carol to fruition, emphasizing the need for translating ideas into actions that drive growth and harmony in the state.

    Hon. Samuel Nanchang Jatau, one of the event organisers, reflected on the challenges and successes of hosting the maiden edition. He promised that future editions would be even more impactful, with plans to expand the event internationally. Jatau encouraged Plateau residents to explore the business opportunities the carol has created, noting its potential to boost tourism and the local economy.

    As the event drew to a close, it left a lasting impression on attendees, who departed with renewed hope for a peaceful and united Plateau State. The Plateau Unity Christmas Carol has set the stage for an annual tradition that celebrates the season and fosters reconciliation, faith, and collective growth among the people of Plateau.

  • Media should help eradicate open defecation in 2027 – SURWASH

    Media should help eradicate open defecation in 2027 – SURWASH

    As Plateau State intensifies in its statewide campaign against the menace of open defecation across the state, the State’s Programme Coordinator, Engr. Jonathan Malann, in this encounter in Jos, tells KOLADE ADEYEMI that media advocacy is needed to meet its 2027 targets.

    We learnt you are on a sensitisation programme on SURWASH Initiative. Tell us about it. It is about SURWASH Initiative in two states – in Kaduna, Katsina, Imo, Delta, Plateau, Gombe and Ekiti. Several programmes have been outlined for the implementation of the project; more are ongoing, and many others are planned. However, the irony is that a lot of people are still unaware of what we are doing as a programme. And that is where the sensitisation and public awareness comes in. We believe the best way to reach the people is by bringing our partners from the media and CSOs together. This platform allows us to interact, showcase our progress so far, highlight our achievements, and outline what we aim to submit as our results to the World Bank. 

    The SURWASH programme is result-based, operating on performance for results. The results we achieve are verified by the Independent Verification Agent (IVA). The IVA submits its report to the World Bank, which then disburses funds to the state, based on the verified results. The IVA does not work in isolation. The media is a critical stakeholder in reporting the results we have generated so far. Hence, we seek to engage these key stakeholders to unveil what we have accomplished and what we intend to present to the World Bank as Plateau State’s results. These results will determine the funds accrued to the state.

    What is the current prevalence of cases of open defecation in Plateau State? 

    According to the national WASHNORM routine mapping by WHO and UNICEF, more than 56% of Plateau residents practise open defecation, a concerning statistic. In the North Central Region, Plateau ranks second in open defecation, just behind Kogi State. This is a bad omen for us as a state. 

    Addressing this issue is one of the targets under this programm, specifically through DLI-6 (Disbursement Linked Indicator 6), which focuses on communities achieving open defecation-free (ODF) status. We are working tirelessly with our implementing agencies to ensure at least two local governments achieve ODF status as a start. 

    Our target is that by 2027, when this programme ends, Plateau State will no longer struggle with open defecation. In 2018, the state declared an emergency in the WASH sector, and we are actively pursuing the strategies outlined during that declaration. 

    Read Also: Tinubu’s economic reforms will not leave anyone behind – Information Minister

    In urban centers, PEPSA is making significant progress, and we will share what they have achieved in Jos today. In rural areas, RUWASSA is leading efforts. We are optimistic that Langtang will become the first local government in Plateau State to be declared open defecation-free. 

    The chairman of STGS is here to attest to the verification protocols and ongoing efforts. While the current statistics are concerning, we are determined to turn things around and eliminate open defecation in Plateau State by 2027. 

    We cannot achieve this alone. Journalists are key partners in this journey. We’ve called you here today to share this story, so you can present it to the public, enabling them to understand and appreciate our efforts.