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Tinubu needs more time to fix Nigeria despite hardship, CAC President tells Nigerians

President of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Nigeria and Overseas, Pastor Samuel Oladele, has urged fellow Nigerians to exercise patience with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration ahead of next year’s general election.

He said some of the economic reforms the Tinubu administration is implementing may be very painful in the ‘short term’ but could produce positive results in the long run with his re-election.

The renowned cleric spoke yesterday during the ongoing Pastors’ Conference of the CAC at Ikeji-Arakeji, Osun State.

The Nation reports that the event brought together thousands of pastors, apostles, and other church leaders across the country.

Oladele noted that leadership, especially one saddled with power, requires difficult decisions that might initially impose hardship on the people.

He said the outcome of such decisions should ultimately be measured by whether or not they improve the welfare and living conditions of the people.

The CAC cleric, who acknowledged the economic hardship being experienced by Nigerians following the removal of the fuel subsidy, asked fellow Nigerians to endure the pain temporarily.

‘I appeal that we should also endure, give them more time, provided that all we are going through will eventually result in smiles on the faces of Nigerian people,’ Oladele said.

The cleric said Nigerians should not lose hope over the current economic difficulties, appealing to them to give the government time to implement its policies and address some of the challenges confronting the country.

Oladele said: ‘I think it is not easy to rule or to be a leader. Sometimes, as a leader, you have to take certain measures that can be painful to people, provided that in the end, we are going to smile.

‘So, we are praying for those who are in government and wish them well. Whether or not the fuel subsidy should be removed, the government knows the nitty-gritty of this.

‘We know that there is hardship everywhere, but when a woman is pregnant, do you think giving birth to a baby is easy? Consider the pain and everything she has to endure until that baby is born.’

The CAC president also said decisions concerning fuel subsidy were complex and better understood by those responsible for running the government.

Oladele urged politicians and political leaders across the country to place the welfare of Nigerians above personal and political interests.

The cleric also appealed to those seeking to occupy or are occupying public offices to embrace righteousness, integrity, and piety to discharge their responsibilities.

According to him, political leadership should not be reduced to the pursuit of personal enrichment or self-interest, but should be directed towards improving the lives of citizens.

‘Let’s not allow the politicians in our country to be deluded into believing that they can govern without God.

‘God teaches us how to rule in righteousness and integrity, and how to take care of the people and ensure their welfare,’ Oladele said.

He advised the political leaders to draw lessons from the Bible in carrying out their responsibilities, saying the scriptures condemn corruption, self-aggrandisement and other practices that undermine good governance.

‘When you read the word of God, you will see that self-interest, personal aggrandisement and all sorts of evils that people commit while in office are condemned. The Bible will tell you, no, you can’t do that. So, let our politicians return to the Bible,’ the cleric said.

The CAC president said differences in political opinions should not be interpreted as a division within the Christian faith, stressing that people were created with different perspectives and convictions.

He urged the Christian community to respect legitimate differences of opinion while allowing God’s will to prevail.

‘God has wired us differently, and we cannot all think alike. So, some people can be for Tinubu, while others can also be against him. Everyone is free to take whichever side he or she thinks is suitable.

‘God has not made us a carbon copy of one another; so, there are bound to be differences in opinions and different shades of opinion. In the end, the will of God shall come to pass,’ the CAC President said.

Speaking on the purpose of the annual conference, Oladele said the gathering was designed to deepen the understanding of the Bible among pastors and other church leaders and strengthen their commitment to Christian service.

He described the Bible as God’s message to humanity, saying its teachings remain relevant to the challenges confronting individuals and society.

‘The Bible remains God’s message to man. Irrespective of your colour, your race, your religion or your social status, the Bible is God’s message to man,’ Oladele added.

According to him, the scriptures guide how to deal with the challenges confronting humanity and should remain central to the lives of Christians.

He pleaded with the Christians to return to the teachings of the Bible and allow its principles to guide their decisions, relationships and conduct in society.

The cleric announced that the CAC has about 14,000 ordained apostles, with the 2026 conference attracting more than 9,000 participants and approaching 10,000 as more delegates arrived.

He described the turnout as significant, noting that some ordained apostles and church leaders could not attend because of various commitments.

‘We have 14,000 ordained apostles in Christ the Holy Church, and the attendance was over 9,000, almost 10,000. We still expect more. Some may not be here for one reason or another, but the turnout is not unusual,’ Oladele said.

The annual conference featured biblical teachings, prayers, and discussions on Christian leadership, evangelism, moral values and the role of the church in national development.

Harmonize, Nandy fined over Sh19 million in Basata ethics crackdown

The National Arts Council (Basata) has imposed Sh19 million in fines on musicians Harmonize and Nandy, a music video director, and two event organisers over breaches of ethical and regulatory requirements governing Tanzania’s arts industry.

The sanctions, which also include temporary bans on engaging in artistic activities for some of those fined, followed separate cases involving the distribution of a music video, a performance at the Miss Universe Tanzania 2026 final and the organisation of an arts event without the required permit.

In a statement issued by Basata acting executive secretary Edward Buganga dated September 22, 2026, Basata said the measures were aimed at ensuring that artists and other stakeholders in the creative industry complied with the laws, regulations, guidelines and ethical standards governing artistic activities. ‘Basata issues fines to artists and arts stakeholders to ensure they comply with the laws, regulations, guidelines and ethics of Tanzanian society when carrying out their artistic activities,’ reads part of the statement.

The largest individual penalties, Sh5 million each, were imposed on Bongo Flava musician Rajab Abdul Kahali, popularly known as Harmonize, and music video director Kennedy David Sanga over the video for Harmonize’s song ‘Kudos’.

Basata said the video violated Regulation 20(a) of the National Arts Council Regulations, Government Notice No. 137 of May 22, 2026, which the council said covers content that violates the dignity of listeners or viewers.

‘The artist was accused of committing an ethical offence by distributing a video for a song called ‘Kudos’ which completely failed to observe the ethics of Tanzanian society and which violates the dignity of the listener or viewer,’ reads another part of the statement.

The council said Harmonize had not submitted a defence or alternative explanation by the time it reached its decision.

As a result, Basata ordered him to remove the video from his social media platforms, pay the Sh5 million fine within 14 days and refrain from engaging in artistic activities until he complied with the decision.

Director Kenny faced similar sanctions because of his role in directing the video, with Basata saying that the production itself amounted to an ethical violation.

‘After being heard, it was established that he committed an ethical offence,’ reads the statement.

He was consequently ordered to remove the video from his social media platforms, pay Sh5 million within 14 days and stop engaging in artistic activities until he implemented the council’s decision.

While the ‘Kudos’ case accounted for Sh10 million of the fines, another Sh6 million was imposed in connection with the Miss Universe Tanzania 2026 final, where singer Faustina Charles Mfinanga, popularly known as Nandy, was fined Sh3 million over her attire during a performance.

The final was held at Haddypro in Dar es Salaam, where Basata said the singer wore clothing that was not considered decent and violated the dignity of viewers.

‘The artist was accused of committing an ethical offence by wearing clothing that was not decent and which violated the dignity of the viewer while performing at the final of the Miss Universe 2026 competition,’ reads another statement.

Unlike Harmonize and Mr Sanga, however, Basata said Nandy admitted the offence, removed the video from her social media platforms and paid the Sh3 million fine.

The council consequently allowed Nandy to continue with her artistic activities, although under its supervision.

The same incident also resulted in a Sh3 million fine against Millen Privé and Co. Lifestyle Limited, the organiser of Miss Universe Tanzania, with Basata holding the company responsible for allowing the alleged ethical violation to occur during the event.

The company was ordered to pay the fine within 14 days of the decision.

Basata’s enforcement action also covered the organisation of arts events, with Avil Contractors Company Ltd, the organiser of Miss Grand Tanzania, receiving a Sh3 million fine for holding the competition without an event permit from the council.

The council said it served the company with a notice of the alleged offence on August 12, 2026, and gave it 21 days to submit its defence, but it failed to do so.

Basata therefore ordered the company to pay the Sh3 million fine within 14 days and refrain from engaging in artistic activities until it complied with the decision.

The five cases bring the total value of fines imposed by Basata to Sh19 million, with the council applying additional restrictions in cases where those sanctioned had yet to comply with its decisions.

Why I left skit making for podcast – Bae U

Nigerian comedian and content creator, Adebayo Ridwan Abidemi, popularly known as Bae U Barbie, has explained why he quit skit-making for podcasting.

Bae U said he took the decision after becoming tired of being ‘average’ and sought to create content that would distinguish him from other skit makers.

He disclosed this in a recent episode of The Moraya Show, where he said the idea for his popular talk show, Curiosity Made Me Ask, emerged while he was trying to rediscover himself.

According to him, he wanted to explore something different rather than continue along the path taken by other skit makers.

‘The concept of Curiosity Made Me Ask came from me finding myself. I was tired of being average and wanted to do something different. I didn’t want to be like the skit makers. A show called ‘Between Two Fence’ by Zack inspired Curiosity Made Me Ask,’ he said.

Bae U also revealed that his biggest career ambition is to interview United States President, Donald Trump.

Since launching Curiosity Made Me Ask, the content creator has hosted several prominent Nigerians, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, veteran actor Pete Edochie and television host Frank Edoho.

Sri Lanka at the right time for enterprise digital transformation: Salesforce

As Sri Lanka accelerates its digital transformation journey, businesses across sectors are increasingly looking at technology to improve productivity, strengthen customer relationships and build competitiveness. Salesforce Country Lead for Sri Lanka Pablo Tachil discusses the opportunities emerging in the market, the transition from AI experimentation to enterprise adoption, and the importance of building a strong local ecosystem to support sustainable digital growth.

Q: Sri Lanka is entering a new era of digital and economic growth. Where does Salesforce see the biggest opportunities for technology to improve productivity, competitiveness and business growth?

A: One of the biggest opportunities Salesforce brings across the ecosystem is creating a level playing field for businesses of all sizes.

Whether it is large enterprises such as John Keells, commercial businesses, mid-market organisations or SMEs, companies today have access to global, world-class technologies that can help improve customer retention, increase adoption, grow revenue and enhance different aspects of their operations.

The ability for even smaller businesses to access enterprise-grade technology and compete more effectively is one of the biggest opportunities that platforms like Salesforce can enable.

Q: Salesforce has been strengthening its engagement in Sri Lanka. What does the Sri Lankan market represent for Salesforce today, especially considering the presence of other global technology companies?

A: I would not specifically comment on market share in Sri Lanka because I do not think that would be representative at this stage. Salesforce has only been actively engaging with the Sri Lankan market over the past couple of years, with stronger focus during the last 12 months.

However, we believe the timing is right because several factors are coming together.

Sri Lanka is becoming much more digitally mature, and businesses are increasingly understanding what world-class platforms like Salesforce can deliver. Previously, many organisations may not have had access to these technologies, but today they can leverage some of the best solutions available

globally.

Salesforce is the world’s leading CRM platform, and our focus is to bring those capabilities to Sri Lankan businesses. We believe the right elements are coming together, customers, partners and talent, which creates the foundation for long-term growth in the market.

Q: AI is quickly becoming central to enterprise transformation. How prepared are Sri Lankan businesses to move from experimenting with AI towards using it at scale and delivering measurable business outcomes?

A: Experimentation is an important first step. Many organisations are exploring AI tools and understanding what they can do. However, the real value comes when AI moves beyond experimentation and starts delivering measurable business outcomes in production environments.

At Salesforce, our focus is ensuring that AI solutions adopted by customers create tangible business value and generate meaningful returns.

Sri Lanka is also a highly connected market, where success stories can influence wider adoption. This is why having strong lighthouse customers, such as John Keells, is important. When customers succeed and demonstrate real outcomes, it encourages broader confidence and adoption across the market.

Q: What are the main factors enabling or influencing digital transformation among Sri Lankan enterprises?

A: I would not necessarily say that something is holding businesses back. Instead, I see a lot of positive momentum happening across the market.

Digital maturity and adoption are increasing significantly. Businesses are beginning to understand the productivity improvements and business value that technology investments can create.

Another important area is data. Organisations are recognising that their data will become one of their most valuable assets. Establishing the right data foundations today will be critical as businesses move towards larger digital transformation initiatives.

I have seen many organisations putting significant thought and effort into building these foundations, and that is an encouraging sign.

Q: As Salesforce supports Sri Lanka’s next chapter of digital growth, what role will customers, partnerships, talent development and the wider technology ecosystem play?

A: These elements will play one of the biggest roles in Salesforce’s growth journey in Sri Lanka.

Customers are obviously central. Sri Lanka is a very connected market, and successful customer journeys create confidence across the wider business community.

At the same time, our implementations, deployments and customer success initiatives are typically supported by partners and startups. We are placing strong emphasis on developing this ecosystem and have been engaging with many partners over the past several months.

We are also focusing on the developer community through initiatives such as YAL Learning, and we are looking at launching Trailhead Academy and Trailblazer communities in Sri Lanka.

Building this ecosystem will be essential to ensuring customers succeed and that the broader digital economy continues to grow.

Q: You mentioned plans to launch the Trailblazer community. How will this support Sri Lankan startups and the wider technology ecosystem?

A: Some of the smartest people I have worked with over the past 23 years have been from Sri Lanka. I have seen many talented

individuals doing remarkable work here.

Communities such as Trailblazer will encourage more people to learn technology, understand how it can solve customer challenges and identify new business opportunities.

We also believe there is an opportunity to build a Salesforce economy in Sri Lanka. By developing Salesforce skills, people can support local customers as well as organisations globally.

This creates a positive cycle, more skilled professionals support more businesses, which creates more opportunities and continues to expand the ecosystem.

Q: Would you like to add anything in closing?

A: We are very excited about the Sri Lankan market. Our focus is to work closely with customers and partners, support their success and help organisations leverage technology to achieve their business goals.

Sowore faults politicians’ shifting position on fuel subsidy

Presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, has said politicians who keep shifting their positions on fuel subsidy are inconsistent.

This followed the latest declaration by the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) vice-presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, that the party, if elected, would restore subsidy in a different form.

Kwankwaso, who is the running mate to Peter Obi, spoke on a national television programme, where he maintained that the party would bring back subsidy ‘in our own way,’ if elected in 2027.

He criticised President Bola Tinubu’s removal of petrol subsidy, describing the action as a mistake that had plunged the country into a ‘total mess’. Kwankwaso said the NDC would explore measures to reduce petrol prices, including increased government investment in domestic refining.

The former Kano State governor argued that if private individuals could establish refineries, government could also build refineries to a level capable of meeting the country’s minimum requirements and making petrol available to Nigerians at a reasonable price.

His position has, however, sparked a fresh debate over the consistency of opposition politicians on the controversial subsidy policy.

But Sowore, who is also campaigning on a platform that seeks a return to subsidy, expressed a different view on the matter.

He said politicians were evasive on the matter, failing to show a clear position on where they stand.

The AAC candidate’s intervention comes against the backdrop of a policy difference between Kwankwaso and Obi.

While Kwankwaso said the NDC would reintroduce subsidy in a different form, Obi has maintained that subsidy should be removed, arguing that the problem was the way the policy was implemented and the failure to deploy the savings transparently.

Obi restated his position in August at this year’s Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) conference in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital.

The NDC presidential candidate said he still subscribed to subsidy removal but faulted the management of the proceeds.

The conflicting positions have placed the fuel subsidy question back at the centre of the opposition’s economic debate ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

Kwankwaso’s declaration is also significant because he had criticised President Tinubu for removing the subsidy immediately after assuming office in May 2023, arguing that the government failed to consider the consequences of the decision.

He said the NDC would not simply return to the old arrangement but would adopt a different mechanism to make petrol affordable.

‘We are bringing subsidy in our own way,’ Kwankwaso said.

He also said an NDC administration would ‘do whatever it takes’ to bring down the price of petrol.

Kwankwaso’s latest position has, therefore, opened another front in the opposition’s campaign debate, with questions likely to persist over whether or not the NDC’s presidential and vice-presidential candidates share the same position on fuel subsidy.

For Sowore, the controversy provides an opportunity to challenge what he called the changing political positions on a policy with direct consequences for all Nigerians.

The debate is expected to feature prominently as the 2027 campaign gathers momentum and political parties present competing economic prescriptions to voters.

Anuradhapura and Jaffna SMEs explore alternative capital raising avenues

The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE), in collaboration with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Sri Lanka (SEC) and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka (CA Sri Lanka), successfully concluded a series of issuer forums in Anuradhapura and Jaffna on 10 and 12 September, respectively.

The forums formed part of an ongoing island-wide initiative aimed at enhancing awareness of capital market opportunities and alternative capital-raising avenues available to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Sri Lanka.

The forums provided SME participants with valuable insights into strengthening their businesses and unlocking growth opportunities through the capital market. Sessions also covered the SME Creditworthiness Rating Framework, the SME Magazine, the Entrepreneur Awards Program, and the importance of maintaining sound financial management practices to support sustainable business growth.

Participants gained a comprehensive understanding of Initial Public Offerings (IPOs), regulatory requirements, succession planning for family-owned businesses, and the opportunities available through the CSE’s Empower Board. The forums concluded with interactive panel discussions, offering participants the opportunity to engage directly with industry experts and receive practical guidance on scaling their businesses and preparing for capital market participation.

The panel comprised SEC Corporate Affairs Managers Samanthi Gunawardana and Marian Sandanam, CSE Senior Vice President Commercial Punyamali Saparamadu, Jaffna Branch Manager Shanmukananthan Sabananthan, Commercial Manager Himashi Wickramasinghe, JA Partners Managing Partner Somasuriyasingham Janarthanan, Ernst and Young Partner Rasika Fernando, CA Sri Lanka Vice President Anoji De Silva, Deloitte Sri Lanka Associate Director Krishnaveny Karmegam, and Asia Securities Investment Banking Analysts Tharusha Wickramarachchi and Neshigan Ganeshan.

Organisers seek sponsors as entries open for GCU Relays

Organisers of the eighth Government College Ughelli (GCU) Relays have opened entries for interested secondary schools and launched a sponsorship drive ahead of the November 14 event.

The annual inter-school athletics competition is traditionally staged by invitation, but organisers said schools that show a strong desire to participate can also be considered.

Novena University Staff School, Kwale, and Yewa College, Ilaro, are among schools that have previously entered through the window and posted impressive performances. Yewa College sprinter Sunday Akintan dominated the second edition and set a 100m record that still stands. Government Secondary School, Kaduna, has already indicated interest in the 2026 edition.

Organisers have also reconstituted sub-committees, confirmed the date and begun upgrading facilities at Government College Ughelli. The school’s tartan track and accommodation are undergoing renovation.

Sapele and School Houses have traditionally lodged the boys and girls respectively. The newly rebuilt Forcados House, now nearing completion, is expected to provide extra accommodation for athletes and officials for the first time. It was rebuilt in honour of Arco Group Chairman, Dr Alfred Okoigun.

Navy Commodore (Rtd) Omatseye Nesiama will start the eighth edition. He is expected to officiate as an International Starter for athletics at the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, scheduled for November 6-10, days before the GCU Relays.

The event is anchored on the objective of the Government College Ughelli Old Boys Association to revive and strengthen sporting rivalry among secondary schools nationwide and create opportunities for young athletes.

Organisers called on individuals, corporate organisations and other stakeholders to sponsor the competition, saying such support will help sustain it and strengthen its role in identifying and nurturing Nigeria’s next generation of athletics talents.

What we’re doing to develop Katsina for its growing population – Gov Radda

The Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has declared that Katsina is moving forward with purpose as the state marks the 39th anniversary of its creation, saying the progress recorded over the years and the renewed development drive under his administration provide a strong foundation for a more secure, prosperous and competitive state.

Governor Radda congratulated Katsina State indigenes at home and in the diaspora on the anniversary, describing the occasion as a celebration of the resilience, sacrifices and collective contributions of generations of citizens who had played their part in the development of the state.

‘At 39, Katsina is moving forward with purpose. We celebrate how far we have come, but we are even more determined about where we are going. Our responsibility is to build on the sacrifices of those before us and create a state that offers greater opportunities for the generations coming after us,’ Governor Radda said.

He noted that his administration’s Building Your Future agenda reflected that responsibility, with deliberate attention to security, education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, economic empowerment, public sector reform and sustainable development.

According to the governor, the administration has remained focused on bringing development closer to the people and ensuring that government interventions make a practical difference in communities across the 34 local government areas.

Governor Radda said ongoing investments in education, healthcare, agriculture, roads and other critical infrastructure were part of a broader effort to strengthen the foundations of the state and create opportunities for its growing population.

He added that support for young people, women, farmers, entrepreneurs and small businesses remained important to the administration’s plan to build an economy in which more citizens could become productive and self-reliant.

On security, Governor Radda acknowledged the challenges confronting some communities but assured the people that his administration would continue working with security agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders and citizens to protect lives and property and restore lasting peace.

The governor stressed that the 39th anniversary should not only be an occasion to celebrate past achievements, but also a moment for citizens to renew their commitment to the future of the state.

‘At 39, we must ask ourselves what kind of Katsina we want to hand over to the next generation. We want a state where our children receive quality education, our farmers prosper, businesses grow, communities are safe and every citizen has the opportunity to live with dignity,’ he said.

Governor Radda maintained that government could not achieve this vision alone, calling on citizens, irrespective of political, religious or social differences, to continue contributing to the peace, unity and development of the state.

‘Katsina belongs to all of us. Its progress is our shared responsibility. Government will continue to provide leadership and create opportunities, but lasting development requires the contribution of everyone,’ he stated.

He urged traditional and religious leaders, professionals, business owners, farmers, women and young people in the diaspora to continue supporting initiatives that promote peace, education, enterprise and community development.

Governor Radda also paid tribute to past leaders, traditional institutions, public servants, security personnel and citizens whose sacrifices and service had contributed to Katsina’s development since its creation.

He assured the people that his administration would continue to pursue the Building Your Future agenda with determination, complete ongoing projects, strengthen public institutions and expand opportunities across the state.

‘As we celebrate 39 years of our dear state, our message is one of gratitude for the journey behind us and confidence in the future before us. We have made progress, but there is still more work to be done,’ Governor Radda said.

He prayed for continued peace and prosperity in the state and wished the people a happy 39th anniversary.

Nawaloka Hospitals expands surgical excellence with 16 operating theatres

As Nawaloka Hospitals Colombo celebrates another milestone in its journey, the hospital is entering its next chapter with a clear focus on expanding surgical capacity, strengthening clinical readiness and creating greater convenience for both consultants and patients.

A significant step in this journey is the expansion of its operating theatre complex from 12 to 16 theatres. More than an expansion of physical infrastructure, this represents Nawaloka Colombo’s readiness to support the evolving needs of modern surgical practice and provide consultants with the environment, resources and trained teams required to deliver specialised care.

The announcement coincided with the celebration of the 41th anniversary of Nawaloka Hospitals.

The theatre complex is designed to support a broad spectrum of surgical disciplines, including general and laparoscopic surgery, cardiac and cardiothoracic surgery, neurosurgery, orthopaedics and spine surgery, vascular surgery, urology, transplantation, plastic and reconstructive surgery, ENT and head and neck surgery, ophthalmology, paediatric surgery, and gynaecological and obstetric surgery. This multidisciplinary capability brings a wide range of surgical expertise together within one integrated hospital environment.

For consultants, this means an operating environment built around clinical preparedness and efficiency. Behind every theatre is a multidisciplinary team of nurses, anaesthetists, surgical technicians and perioperative professionals who are continuously trained and prepared to meet the demands of modern surgery. The emphasis is not simply on having advanced theatres, but on ensuring that the people operating within them are equipped with the knowledge, skills and readiness required to support consultants throughout the surgical journey.

This readiness extends beyond the operating room. Nawaloka Colombo’s surgical services are supported by 24-hour emergency services, intensive and critical care, advanced imaging, laboratory diagnostics, blood bank facilities, specialised anaesthesia and postoperative monitoring. This integrated infrastructure enables patients to move efficiently from consultation and diagnosis through surgery, recovery and rehabilitation.

For patients and their families, the expansion means greater access, improved convenience and increased flexibility. With additional theatre capacity, Nawaloka Colombo is positioned to accommodate both scheduled and emergency procedures while supporting smoother patient flow and reducing pressure created by growing surgical demand.

The hospital’s theatres operate around the clock and support procedures ranging from routine surgery to complex cardiac, neurological, orthopaedic, transplant and cancer-related interventions. Existing facilities include laminar airflow theatres designed for high-precision neuro and orthopaedic procedures, supporting stringent infection-control requirements and clean operating conditions.

With approximately 13,000 surgeries performed annually, the expansion reflects both the demand for Nawaloka Colombo’s surgical services and its continuing investment in the future of surgical care.

As Nawaloka Hospitals Colombo expands from 12 to 16 operating theatres, the message is clear: the hospital is preparing not only for more surgeries, but for the future of surgical practice – with modern infrastructure, highly trained teams, comprehensive supporting services and an environment designed to help consultants practice with confidence while giving patients greater access to seamless, specialised care.

Bauchi begins N11.7bn gratuity payment to 5,736 retirees

Bauchi State Government on Wednesday, commenced the disbursement of the sum of N11.7 billion to clear outstanding gratuities owed to 5,736 retired civil servants at both State and LGAs whose terminal benefits have not been paid since 2012 to 2016.

The State Governor, Sen Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, officially flagged off the disbursement at the Sub-treasury office premises, represented by the Deputy Governor Rt Hon Auwal Jatau.

Bala Mohammed, said that the payment was part of a renewed strategy to address pension liabilities inherited from previous administrations.

The Governor revealed that according to validated government records, the outstanding gratuity obligation stands at N11,704,200,221.83, covering retirees between 2012 and 2016.

The breakdown shows that N6,132,505,444.44 is owed to 3,570 state government retirees, while N5,579,694,779.39 is owed to 2,256 local government retirees.

The government has approved an initial N10 billion for the exercise, which will be paid in batches based on the age of the debt, availability of funds, completeness of documentation and successful verification.

A committee led by a former Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Sabiu Baba, is coordinating the exercise in collaboration with the Bauchi State Contributory Pension Commission, which is responsible for validating and reconciling pensioners’ records.

The first phase will cover local government retirees from the 2012-2013 period and state civil service retirees from 2013.

The government stated that retirees outside the initial phase would not be excluded, assuring that the payment exercise would continue until the backlog was cleared.

It acknowledged that many pensioners had waited for more than a decade for their benefits, while some had died before receiving their entitlements.

The government consequently directed the pension commission, Head of Service and participating commercial banks to eliminate bureaucratic bottlenecks, corruption and favouritism in the payment process.

It also directed verification teams to give priority to elderly and physically challenged retirees during screening as the Pensioners were urged to cooperate with verification officials and provide the required documents to facilitate payment.

The latest intervention builds on previous efforts by the state government to address pension obligations. Under its 2025 budget, the government allocated N5 billion for gratuities and N8.5 billion for pensions as part of its social benefits programme.

Beyond clearing the current backlog, the government said it was working towards establishing a fully automated pension system to prevent the accumulation of unpaid retirement benefits in the future.

The gesture has been described by organised Labour and other stakeholders as an economic stimulus and a proof of a labour-friendly administration.

In his goodwill message, the representative of organised labour, Ibrahim Maikudi commended the state government for prioritizing workers’ welfare, noting that Bauchi was among the first states in the country to implement the N70,000 minimum wage for civil servants.

He further stated that Bauchi was the first state in the North to implement the N32,000 minimum pension for pensioners.

‘We are witnessing another gesture today, which is the flag-off of payment of accrued gratuity which this administration inherited. It is because of the good nature of our labour-friendly Governor that he decided to pay this backlog,’ he said.

He disclosed that the current phase covers retirees of 2012 to 2013, with assurance that the exercise would continue from 2016 to 2026 to clear all outstanding arrears.

‘For now, we are paying from 2012 to 2013 and we were told it will continue after 2016 up to 2026. The entire pensioners are here, happy and ready to support this government,’ he added.

Also speaking, the Executive Chairman of Ningi Local Government Area, Alhaji Yahuza Adamu, who spoke on behalf of other chairmen of local governments, said the payment goes beyond politics.

‘What we are doing today is beyond socio-political, it is economic in nature. We are injecting funds into the public domain in Bauchi State and with the multiplier effect, it is going to change the economic trajectory of the state,’ he said.

Yahuza maintained the gratuity payment, which had become a mirage over the years, was promised by successive administrations but never fulfilled.

‘Everybody promised to do this and nobody ever did it. This is only done now by the right leader, at the right time, at the right moment, and to the right people,’ he said.

He pledged the support of local government councils for the developmental programmes of the state government and urged beneficiaries and their families to continue to pray for the success of the administration.