Category: Business Day

The Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE) has cautioned that the Senate’s proposal to ban textile fabric imports could disrupt Nigeria’s N17 trillion fashion and furniture value chains, threaten the livelihoods of about 10 million people and ultimately fail to revive the country’s struggling textile industry.

In a statement on Sunday, Muda Yusuf, chief executive officer of CPPE, urged lawmakers to abandon import restrictions in favour of reforms that address the structural challenges undermining the competitiveness of local textile manufacturers.

The Senate had recently called for a ban on textile imports as part of efforts to revive Nigeria’s once-thriving textile industry. However, Yusuf argued that while the objective is commendable, an outright import prohibition would likely inflict broader economic damage by disrupting supply chains, increasing production costs and weakening industries that depend on imported textile fabrics.

‘The proposed measure is unlikely to achieve its intended objectives and could have significant adverse consequences for the Nigerian economy. While the objective of reviving Nigeria’s textile industry is legitimate and commendable, an outright import prohibition is unlikely to achieve that objective.

‘Rather than revitalising the textile industry, the proposed ban could impose substantial collateral costs on downstream industries, disrupt critical supply chains and jeopardise millions of jobs and livelihoods,’ Yusuf said

He added that effective industrial policy should tackle the underlying constraints to competitiveness rather than merely restrict imports.

According to the CPPE, Nigeria’s fashion, garment-making and tailoring industry, valued at about N10 trillion, supports an estimated 10 million livelihoods and remains one of the country’s most vibrant creative economy sectors.

The organisation noted that textile fabrics are essential intermediate inputs for the industry and warned that restricting imports would reduce consumer choice, increase costs for businesses and threaten thousands of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises operating across the value chain.

Beyond fashion, Yusuf said Nigeria’s furniture and interior design industry, estimated at N7 trillion also relies heavily on textile materials for upholstered furniture, office furniture, hotel furnishings and mattresses. Any disruption in fabric supply, it warned, would increase production costs and reduce the sector’s competitiveness.

Yusuf maintained that the decline of Nigeria’s textile industry stems primarily from longstanding structural bottlenecks rather than import competition.

He identified high energy costs, poor infrastructure, expensive credit, logistics challenges, obsolete production technology, smuggling, weak access to long-term finance and inconsistent government policies as the key factors driving the industry’s decline.

According to him, imported textile fabrics already attract combined import duties and Import Adjustment Tax of between 35 and 45 percent, yet these tariff protections have failed to restore the sector’s competitiveness because the core challenge lies in the high cost of production.

‘Textile manufacturing is one of the most energy-intensive industries globally. Operating within a high-cost production environment has severely undermined the competitiveness of local manufacturers.

‘It is noteworthy that imported textile fabrics already attract combined Import Duty and Import Adjustment Tax (IAT) of between 35 and 45 percent. Yet these tariff protections have not restored the industry’s competitiveness because the core problem lies in production economics rather than import penetration.

‘An import ban proposition addresses the symptom while leaving the underlying causes unresolved. Sustainable industry revival requires lower production costs, improved productivity and stronger enforcement of the existing tariff regime,’ he said

The CPPE also argued that local textile manufacturers currently lack the capacity to meet the quantity, quality and diversity of fabrics demanded by Nigeria’s garment, fashion, furniture and interior design industries.

It warned that imposing an import ban under such circumstances would create supply shortages and hurt downstream industries that collectively employ significantly more Nigerians than textile manufacturing itself.

Instead of prohibiting imports, the organisation recommended a comprehensive value-chain strategy to revive the industry.

Among its proposals are mandatory government patronage of locally produced textiles and garments for military, paramilitary agencies and schools, the establishment of a Textile Competitiveness Fund financed from textile-related import taxes, renewed investment in cotton production, stronger border enforcement to curb smuggling and reforms aimed at reducing energy costs, improving infrastructure and expanding access to affordable long-term finance.

Yusuf said reviving domestic cotton production through improved seedlings, mechanisation, extension services, enhanced security and guaranteed off-take arrangements would also strengthen the industry’s raw material base.

He advised that Nigeria’s textile industry would achieve sustainable growth only through policies that improve competitiveness and productivity rather than blanket import restrictions.

‘A successful revival strategy should focus on reducing production costs, modernising manufacturing, restoring cotton production and leveraging government procurement to stimulate demand for locally made textiles,’ he said.

There are moments when you realise that sport is doing something politics cannot.

Walking through downtown Atlanta after the final whistle for the match between Uzbekistan and DR Congo on Saturday night was one of those moments. Tens of thousands of supporters streamed through the streets long after the match had ended. Many wore the colours of DR Congo and Uzbekistan, but they were joined by fans from dozens of other countries. The atmosphere was international, diverse, joyful and peaceful, all held together by the beautiful game.

Having now experienced the World Cup in Miami, Atlanta, Houston and Kansas City, I can say without hesitation that the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been extraordinary.

That matters because the tournament arrived amid heavy negativity. Critics warned that an expanded 48-team format would dilute quality. Others feared that geopolitical tensions, polarisation and security concerns would overshadow the event. Instead, the football has been compelling, the cities have come alive, and the fan experience has been exceptional.

The United States, in particular, needed this. At a time when the country often appears divided against itself, the World Cup has offered a different picture: people from every continent walking together, singing together, trading shirts, taking photos and celebrating without suspicion. It has restored, if only for a few weeks, some faith in what America can still be at its best.

It has also been a commercial masterpiece. FIFA, the host nations, participating countries, corporate sponsors, and even non-sponsors have all found ways to benefit from the tournament’s energy. Hotels, airlines, restaurants, broadcasters, apparel companies, fan parks, city governments and national investment agencies are all participating in an enormous global marketplace built around football.

And nowhere has the sporting story been more powerful than with Africa.

Before the tournament, many critics questioned whether increasing Africa’s representation would weaken the World Cup. Gennaro Gattuso, the head coach of Italy who failed to qualify, noted that in earlier tournaments there were only two African teams, while this edition had nine, suggesting that the expansion created ‘difficulties.’ UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin warned that many matches in an expanded tournament would be ‘completely uninteresting.’ Harry Kane, after England’s draw with Ghana, suggested that Ghana had largely come to waste time and secure a nil-nil.

Bastian Schweinsteiger described African football as ‘a bit unorthodox’ and ‘a bit wild.’

Those comments have not aged well.

When the group stage concluded, nine of Africa’s ten representatives had advanced to the Round of 32. CAF’s 90 per cent qualification rate was the highest of any confederation, ahead of South America and Europe. Africa did not dilute the World Cup. Africa elevated it.

FIFA’s decision to expand African representation has been vindicated. For years, African football followers have argued that the continent’s talent base was far deeper than its World Cup allocation allowed. This tournament has proved the point. Africa did not need charity. It needed opportunity.

As a Nigerian-born football supporter, this World Cup has been a strange experience. The Super Eagles are absent, but Nigeria is everywhere.

Sixteen players of Nigerian heritage are representing nine different countries. Folarin Balogun has become one of the stars of the United States team, even if American commentators still struggle to pronounce his Yoruba surname correctly. Saka, Madueke and Eze are playing for England. Jamal Musiala and Felix Nmecha wear German colours. Promise David and Tani Oluwaseyi represent Canada. Michael Olise plays for France. The Nigerian football diaspora has become one of the most visible forces in the tournament.

Nigeria’s cultural presence has been just as strong. Burna Boy is part of the World Cup theme song and Ayra Star and others are on the soundtrack. Davido thrilled the Atlanta Fan Festival.

Afrobeats is everywhere-in stadiums, fan parks, city streets and sponsor activations. Nigeria may not officially be in the World Cup, but Nigerian footballers, Nigerian music and Nigerian culture are helping define it.

Without the Super Eagles, every Nigerian supporter has had to create a personal formula for choosing teams. Mine has been shaped by identity. I was born in Nigeria, but the Netherlands is my ancestral country throu/gh my parents and one of my passport countries, alongside Canada and the United States. So those became my starting point, followed by every African team, beginning with West Africa, then Central Africa, North Africa and Southern Africa. When none of those teams were playing, I supported whichever side had the strongest Nigerian or African connection.

That is one of the gifts of an expanded World Cup: more people can find themselves somewhere in the tournament.

But the most important lesson for Nigeria has come from watching the Netherlands.

The Dutch are not simply using the World Cup to promote football. They are using football to promote the Netherlands.

Around every Dutch match, the Netherlands Ambassador to the United States, and in Mexico the Dutch Ambassador there, has used the opportunity to spend several days in the host city. Together with the relevant consul-general, the embassy has organised meetings with governors, mayors, corporate CEOs and investors. Dutch companies operating in those regions are involved. American companies with operations in the Netherlands are engaged. Dutch executives looking for opportunities in those markets are present.

Football has become a trade mission.

At the same time, the Dutch federation, the KNVB, has created a spectacular cultural experience around the team. Oranje parties, fan walks behind the famous orange bus, Dutch DJs, the Orange Suit Man, and the powerful national symbolism of orange-drawn from the House of Orange-have all turned each Dutch fixture into a celebration of football, culture, tourism and economic opportunity.

The Dutch King and Queen attended one match. The Prime Minister has also been present. This is not accidental. It is coordinated national soft power.

The message is clear: watch Dutch football, enjoy Dutch culture, visit the Netherlands, invest in the Netherlands and do business with Dutch companies.

Nigeria should be paying close attention.

We have all the ingredients to do this, and perhaps to do it even better. Our musicians are global stars. Our fashion, food, film and creative industries already command worldwide attention. Our entrepreneurs are building companies across Africa and beyond. Our diaspora is vast, influential and emotionally connected to the country. Our football brand, even in difficult periods, remains powerful.

The next time the Super Eagles qualify for a World Cup, Nigeria should not arrive with only a football team. We should arrive with a national strategy.

That strategy should involve the Nigerian Football Federation, government, corporate titans and executives, state governors, investment promotion agencies, tourism bodies, corporate sponsors, musicians, fashion designers, filmmakers, technology founders and diaspora leaders. Around every match, Nigeria should host business forums, cultural festivals, investment roundtables, music showcases and fan experiences that tell a broader story about the country. The Nigerian delegation should not be there just to participate and enjoy the entertainment – they should be there to promote and sell Nigeria.

Football can do far more for Nigeria than win trophies. It can open markets. It can attract capital. It can strengthen diplomacy. It can reshape perceptions. It can give the world a more complete picture of who we are.

The 2026 World Cup has already proved many things. It has proved that the expanded format works. It has proved that Africa deserved more places. It has proved that football can still bring people together in a fractured world. And it has proved that the countries that think strategically about sport will gain far more than ninety minutes of attention.

Nigeria must make sure that when we return to the global stage, we do not only come to play. We must come to compete, to connect, to inspire-and to build the partnerships that will shape our future long after the final whistle.

Thousands of students of Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, turned out for MTN’s Live It 100 on Campus activation, a three-day engagement that combined entertainment, gaming, brand experiences and giveaways, culminating in the presentation of a brand-new car to a lucky student.

The activation, which ran from recently transformed Campus 3 of the university into a vibrant hub of activities as students participated in games, interactive experiences, prize giveaways and entertainment programmes designed to engage and reward young people.

Speaking at the grand finale of the three-day activation, Senior Manager, Segment Marketing (Youth, Women and Teens), MTN Nigeria, Temilolu Salako, said the initiative reflects MTN’s commitment to supporting young Nigerians beyond connectivity by creating opportunities for engagement, empowerment and recreation.

According to him, MTN Pulse was designed to connect with young people in ways that support both their academic journey and personal aspirations. ‘MTN Pulse is an impactful campus initiative created to celebrate and support young people. We want students to have opportunities to learn, connect, showcase their talents and enjoy memorable experiences while on campus,’ he said.

Salako stated that the activation has continued to expand across tertiary institutions nationwide as part of MTN’s broader commitment to youth development and engagement.

The university management commended the initiative, describing it as a valuable contribution to student welfare and wellbeing.

Representing the Vice Chancellor, the Dean of Students’ Affairs, Prof. Vincent Efebeh, praised MTN for its continued investment in young people and for creating opportunities that combine learning, recreation and community engagement. He said the activation had provided students with an avenue to relax, interact and recharge outside the classroom environment.

The President of the Students’ Union Government (SUG), Comrade Kingsley Dumuje, also lauded the initiative, describing it as one that resonated strongly with students.

According to him, the programme is a demonstration of MTN’s understanding of what matters to students beyond the classroom, combining entertainment, engagement and meaningful rewards in a way that resonates with young people.

The high point of the event came during the raffle draw on the final day when Joyce Obarakpor, a 200-level Nursing Science student of the school emerged winner of a brand-new car, sparking excitement across the venue.

Expressing gratitude, Obarakpor said she had imagined winning before the event and dedicated the win to her mother, describing her as her greatest support system. ‘My mum is going to be very excited because she has sacrificed so much to make sure my siblings and I go to school. I just want to say thank you to MTN. I’m very happy and very excited,’ she said.

Live It 100 on Campus is part of MTN Pulse’s youth engagement platform designed to connect with students through experiences that bring together entertainment, learning and opportunities, while strengthening the brand’s relationship with young Nigerians across tertiary institutions nationwide.

Ventures Platform and the Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art (YSMA), Pan-Atlantic University, are pleased to announce Haneefah Adam as the winner of the inaugural Ventures Platform-YSMA Futures Art Award, a pioneering public art commission established to support artistic innovation and future-focused cultural expression in Nigeria.

The announcement was made during the 10th anniversary dinner of Ventures Platform in Lagos, where Haneefah was recognized following a competitive national selection process that attracted submissions from artists and art collectives across Nigeria.

Haneefah will be commissioned to create a 12-foot public sculpture titled ‘Bloom in Unexpected Places’, which will be permanently installed within the YSMA and Pan-Atlantic University environment.

Selected through a rigorous jury process involving leading artists, curators, scholars, and cultural professionals, the proposal distinguished itself through its originality, conceptual strength, artistic ambition, and thoughtful engagement with the award’s central theme: ‘Reimagine the future and build into form through art’.

The work explores themes of growth, resilience, innovation, and possibility, inviting audiences to reflect on how creativity and human ingenuity can flourish in unexpected circumstances and environments. Through its scale and public presence, the installation is intended to spark conversations about the future while enriching the cultural landscape of the University and the wider community.

The award represents a landmark moment in Haneefah Adam’s artistic journey. While she has earned recognition for her innovative and socially engaged practice, this commission marks her first institutional award, her first major public art commission, and the largest public artwork of her career to date.

Speaking on behalf of YSMA, Jess Castellote, museum director, described the Award as an important investment in both artists and public culture.

‘At YSMA, we believe museums have a responsibility not only to preserve cultural heritage but also to support the creation of new cultural futures. Haneefah’s proposal impressed the Jury with its clarity, imagination, and relevance to contemporary conversations about innovation and possibility. We are delighted to support the realization of this ambitious work and to welcome it into the Museum’s growing public art programme. The Ventures Platform-YSMA Futures Art Award demonstrates what is possible when cultural institutions and private-sector partners work together to invest in creativity and public engagement.’

For Ventures Platform, the award forms part of its broader vision of supporting the systems, ideas, and people shaping Africa’s future.

According to Kola Aina, founder and general partner, Ventures Platform: ‘As we celebrate ten years of backing visionary founders across Africa, we wanted to create something

that reflects our belief that innovation is not confined to technology or business alone. The future is also imagined through culture, creativity, and the stories we tell about ourselves. This Award represents an investment in imagination itself. Haneefah’s proposal captures that spirit beautifully, and we are excited to see it come to life as a public artwork that inspires curiosity, reflection, and optimism.’

The award is one component of a broader three-year collaboration between Ventures Platform and YSMA, which also includes entrepreneurship-focused masterclasses, guest lectures, and student engagement initiatives within the Pan-Atlantic University ecosystem.

Supporting the long-term legacy of the programme is Atsur Technologies Ltd, the exclusive Provenance Infrastructure and Physical-Digital Documentation Partner for the Ventures Platform-YSMA Futures Art Award.

Through the partnership, every commissioned artwork produced under the Award will be professionally digitized, authenticated, and recorded using Artsur’s provenance and collection management technology, ensuring robust documentation of the artist’s creative process, the artwork’s history, and its enduring place within Nigeria’s cultural record. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to strengthening transparency, documentation standards, and the long-term preservation of contemporary African artistic production using innovative technologies.

Commenting on her selection, Haneefah Adam expressed gratitude for the opportunity and excitement about the journey ahead.

‘I am deeply honoured to be the inaugural recipient of the Ventures Platform-YSMA Futures Art Award. To have my work selected from among so many strong submissions is both humbling and encouraging. Bloom in Unexpected Places is rooted in the belief that creativity, hope, and transformation can emerge even in the most unlikely circumstances. I look forward to working with YSMA and Ventures Platform to bring this vision into the public realm and create a work that invites people to think differently about the future.’

Beyond the commissioning of a single artwork, the Ventures Platform-YSMA Futures Art Award seeks to establish a new model for collaboration between the cultural and innovation sectors. By positioning artists as active participants in conversations about technology, entrepreneurship, and societal transformation, the Award expands the ways in which the future can be imagined, questioned, and made visible.

As work begins on Bloom in Unexpected Places, the project signals a bold commitment by both Ventures Platform and YSMA to nurturing creative talent, supporting public art, and fostering interdisciplinary approaches to shaping the future.

The passage of the State Police Bill by the Senate reflects a growing national consensus that Nigeria needs decentralised policing to tackle worsening insecurity across the country.

While the bill empowers governors to oversee State Police operations, it also includes safeguards prohibiting the use of State Police against political opponents or government critics except in accordance with the law.

However, stakeholders have called for institutional safeguards to prevent the misuse of the law by state governors and enforcement agencies.

It is also argued that without strong constitutional and administrative protections, State Police could potentially be influenced by local political actors, thereby undermining their neutrality and the rule of law.

The federal structure currently being practised in Nigeria is characterised by wide disparities in fiscal strength, administrative capability, and institutional maturity.

These imbalances present a situation where some states may have the capacity to maintain professional security institutions, while others may struggle to fund, train, and properly supervise their state police.

Hence, it is argued that introducing State Police under these conditions risks creating an uneven and fragmented security architecture.

Accordingly, Nigeria must, along with the introduction of State Police, confront the reality of ungoverned or weakly governed spaces across the country. BusinessDay’s JOHN SALAU and KENNETH ATHEKAME spoke with some Nigerians on the passage of the Bill on State Police and what it means for the country’s security architecture. Excerpts:

For many years, I have been a strong advocate of State Policing in Nigeria. You can then imagine my excitement as the bill is starting to get the needed momentum. If we must be honest with ourselves and devoid of retrogressive sentiments, this is something long overdue.

Firstly, almost all other countries in the world practising federalism have a subnational policing system. Why do we delude ourselves that we would not do the same and expect our policing to be top-notch? Yet most of these countries have less cultural diversities and less security challenges than we do.

Have we wondered why semblance of state police like the CJTF in Borno State or the Amotekun in States of the South West have been recording successes? It is a simple case of local intelligence superiority and populace acceptability. There is no way an Efik man who has spent all his years in the Niger Delta will be sent to Maiduguri and you expect the majority local Kanuri populace to trust him with intelligence sharing, or him to have good knowledge of the physical and cultural terrain.

Secondly, let us look at it from the funding angle. We can use the April FAAC allocation as a yardstick. For the month of April, 2026, the sum of N2.257 trillion total distributable revenue was shared amongst the 3 tiers of government:

FG = N787.351 billion

State Governments = N772.360 billion.

Oil Producing States = N157.254 billion

(additional amount as 13% of mineral revenue)

LGAs = N540.152 billion

Total = N2.257 trillion

In percentages:

FG = 35%

States= 41% (13% derivation added)

LGAs = 24%

Now, looking at the figures, will it be out of place to ask the tier of government getting the most allocation to also formally get involved in policing? Have we been asking questions about security votes states have been getting, yet at the slightest crisis, only the FG is screamed at but the ‘Chief Security Officer’ of the state getting the security vote is comfortably operating below the radar of responsibility, accountability, and scrutiny?

Kudos to some of the state governors who even without State Police, are actively and frontally tackling insecurity in their states. Lagos, Kogi, Borno, and Edo readily come to my mind. Meanwhile, in the same country, a governor getting the same vote will raise up his hands in the air and tell his citizens that he cannot be responsible for insecurity in his state. While technically such a governor might be right, morally he is inexcusable. Figuratively, while there might be no blood on his hands, he has blood on his soul! With State Police, the era of being a Chief Security Officer that gets paid to secure a state but will not be responsible for security (an aberration) will come to an end!

Thirdly and lastly, the police are better trained and suited for maintaining internal security than the military. The closer the policing structure is, the easier it is to manage security. All the present quasi police arrangements like CJTF, Amotekun, Neighborhood Watches/Vigilante Groups can be refined and fused into different state police architecture as might be suitable. Let them be the first line of defense, followed by the Federal Police, then the military.

– Moses Lawal, Lagos-based social commentator

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The proposal for the establishment of state police in Nigeria is, in principle, a welcome development because effective policing is most successful when it is rooted in the community it serves. Nigeria’s growing security challenges have exposed the limitations of an overly centralised policing structure in a large and diverse federation like Nigeria. From both governance and communication perspectives, state policing has the potential to foster stronger relationships between the police and the people through better understanding of local languages, cultures, and security dynamics.

However, the success of state police will depend largely on the legal and institutional safeguards put in place to prevent political abuse. A legitimate concern is the possibility that some state governors may deploy state police as instruments to intimidate political opponents, suppress dissent, or influence electoral outcomes. To prevent this, the operational independence of state police must be guaranteed through clear constitutional provisions, independent oversight bodies, transparent recruitment processes, professional training, and effective judicial accountability. If these safeguards are firmly established, state police can become a valuable instrument for improving security without undermining democracy, the rule of law, or citizens’ fundamental rights.

– Chukwudinma Okoji, HoD, Department of Mass Communication, Federal Poly, Offa, Kwara State

The call for the establishment of state and community policing has remained a subject of national debate for several years. Political leaders, media commentators, security experts, and members of the public have continued to express differing opinions on the issue. While some believe that community policing alone is the key to addressing the persistent challenges of killings, kidnapping, and other violent crimes, others advocate for a more comprehensive security framework that includes state policing coordinated alongside existing federal structures.

The reality is that the Nigeria Police Force, despite the dedication of its personnel, does not have sufficient manpower to effectively secure the country’s rapidly growing population. Although the Federal Government has sustained the recruitment of new officers, the gap between the available workforce and the nation’s security needs remains significant.

The recent surge in banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes has further strengthened the argument for state policing. This position has been reinforced by the concerns raised by several state governors who, despite being regarded as the Chief Security Officers of their respective states, have little or no authority over the deployment of police personnel during emergencies because policing is exclusively under the control of the Federal Government. In view of this reality, the establishment of state police has become increasingly necessary.

Opponents of state policing, however, have expressed legitimate concerns. Some fear that state governors may misuse the police as instruments of political oppression against perceived opponents. Others question whether state governments possess the financial capacity to adequately fund their own police forces. There are also concerns about possible duplication of intelligence, jurisdictional conflicts, and operational clashes between federal and state security agencies.

While these concerns deserve careful consideration, they should not overshadow the urgent need to confront the rising wave of insecurity across the country. The increasing rate of violent crime demands practical, innovative, and collaborative solutions.

This is, therefore, a call to every patriotic Nigerian to support the adoption and effective implementation of state and community policing. Recruitment into such security agencies should be strictly merit-based, while officers must be thoroughly trained to uphold the rule of law, respect human rights, and protect the dignity of every citizen. With appropriate legal safeguards, adequate funding, and effective oversight mechanisms, state policing can complement the efforts of the federal police and significantly enhance security across the nation.

– Badru Saleh Abiona, proprietor, The Source Schools, Alakuko, Lagos

Yes, Nigeria can benefit from state police, but only if there are strong legal safeguards, proper funding, accountability systems, and protection against political abuse. The current centralised force, the Nigeria Police Force, has struggled with manpower shortages, slow response times, and limited local intelligence in many communities.

Can State Governors Fund and Manage It Effectively? It depends on the state.

Some economically stronger states, such as Lagos State, Rivers State, and Kano State, may have the revenue base to fund a professional police structure.

However, many states depend heavily on federal allocations and may struggle to sustain.

Salaries and welfare packages, modern equipment and vehicles, training and professional development, intelligence gathering systems, operational logistics, and without stable funding, state police could become weak and ineffective.

Will it improve crime-fighting? Potentially, yes. Advantages include: better local intelligence officers understand local languages, terrain, and community networks.

Faster response time, less dependence on commands from Abuja.

Improved community trust, Citizens may cooperate more with locally accountable officers.

More focused crime prevention – better handling of kidnapping, banditry, cultism, and communal conflicts.

Nigeria’s current security challenges, such as kidnapping and insurgency, have exposed the limits of a purely centralised model.

Major risks of State Police – The biggest concern is political misuse by governors.

Possible dangers: Using the police against political opponents during elections

Harassment of journalists and critics

Ethnic or partisan favouritism in recruitment. Turning police into a tool of personal political power; Nigeria’s democratic institutions are still evolving, so this concern is significant.

Will It Make Policing Reputable Again?

Not automatically. State police alone will not restore trust. Reputation improves when there is professional training and independent oversight bodies. Better salaries and welfare;

strict punishment for corruption and abuse; respect for citizens’ rights and the rule of law. If corruption simply moves from the federal level to the state level, public trust will not improve.

A strong argument can be made that Nigeria needs state police, but success depends on structure, not just creation. A good model would be:

Federal police handling national security and interstate crimes

State police are handling local security and community policing. Independent oversight commissions prevent abuse by governors.

The real problem is not the absence of state police; it is the lack of accountability at the state level and the absence of genuine political will.

In a country where many politicians appear more focused on political manoeuvring than on governance, state police risk becoming instruments of political intimidation and repression rather than agencies dedicated to protecting lives and property.

– Julius Ayoola, Lagos-based lawyer.

The renewed conversation on the establishment of state police in Nigeria is a welcome development and, indeed, long overdue.

The worsening insecurity across the country is not something we can continue to watch while hoping that things will somehow improve on their own.

Every day, communities are attacked, lives are lost, and citizens are increasingly living in fear. It is therefore necessary to adopt practical solutions that can strengthen our security architecture.

There are concerns being raised by some Nigerians about the possible abuse of state police by governors and political leaders.

While these fears should not be ignored, they should also not prevent the nation from embracing a system that has the potential to improve security.

In several northern states, there are already security outfits operating along religious lines and carrying out functions similar to those of state policing.

These outfits have existed for years without creating major constitutional crises.

Likewise, many states across the country already maintain various security agencies and vigilante groups that work closely with conventional security agencies.

In reality, these are forms of indirect state policing.

I believe that states willing and prepared to establish state police should be allowed to do so, while those that are not ready can wait until they have the necessary capacity and framework in place.

A gradual implementation process may even be the best approach.

The situation can be compared to the introduction of telephones in Nigeria.

There was a time when telephone services were reserved only for the elite.

However, when the need arose to make communication accessible to the masses, the government created policies that made it possible.

In the same way, the necessity of state police has become increasingly evident as a way out of the nation’s current security challenges.

There is no reason for Nigerians to be afraid of state police.

We already have various federal and state agencies doing the same thing, including transport authorities and other government institutions. Having federal and state police will not be totally different.

Furthermore, state governors should be encouraged to channel their security votes into strengthening the state police and supporting the judiciary and other mechanisms that ensure justice and the rule of law.

The establishment of state police is not a threat to Nigeria’s unity; rather, it is an opportunity to bring security closer to the people, improve intelligence gathering, and ensure quicker responses to local security challenges.

The time has come for Nigeria to embrace state police as part of a broader strategy to restore peace and security across the country.

– Stanley Ihedigbo, publisher and Editor-in-Chief, The Mirror Newspapers

Let the communities and state government take responsibility for their people… This will increase our overall capacity. Let the states come together and source funds from their wealthy citizens, just like Lagos is doing, and be accountable for such funds.

– Eyo Rita

That is one of the best things that has happened to Nigeria and exactly what many of us have been advocating for. Various state governments should now take ownership of their security responsibilities. A governor who cannot generate enough revenue to pay workers’ salaries will inevitably struggle to recruit, train, equip, and sustain a state police force. Establishing state police goes beyond creating a security outfit; it requires substantial and consistent investment in personnel training, welfare, logistics, and operational capacity.’

– Ayobami Adeyemi, Lagos-based lawyer

The United Nations Association of Nigeria (UNAN) has held a one-day forum in Lagos to educate and sesnsitise secondary school students across Nigeria and Africa on the dangers of tobacco and nicotine substance use.

The event, which held under the theme, ‘Unmasking the appeal: Countering nicotine and tobacco addiction’, brought together secondary school students from both public and private schools in the state.

Speaking at the event, Oluremi Olutimo, president, UNAN, linked the use of tobacco as a major preventable cause of disease and death globally, adding that tobacco usage leads to increased risk of cancers, heart disease, stroke, respiratory ailments, and many other life-threatening health problems.

Despite years of public health efforts, Olutimo who is a professor affirmed that nicotine products, flavored tobacco products, e-cigarettes, and intensive digital marketing were currently introducing the youth to nicotine and tobacco use.

According to him, ‘The debate would serve as a reminder that addiction does often start with products that are perceived as fun, safe, trendy or ‘cool’.

‘But beneath all the eye-catching packaging and attractive advertising is a deadly product that can destroy health, diminish life quality, and place enormous stress on families and the community.

‘This will equip participants with knowledge, creativity and leadership competencies required to effectively contest tobacco industry power, as well as promote healthier life’.

Monica Nwosu, executive director, Heart Aglow Foundation, highlighted the importance of the inter school debate championship, adding that it aimed to ensure that the young minds understand the impact and the implication when it comes to substance abuse.

According to her, ‘The truth is, peer pressure is real. Even if they decide not to take, but if there is a lot of peer pressure, they can succumb to those peer pressure. And that is why we are raising this awareness through the debate.’

Nwosu, who is a member of UNAN, disclosed that at the end of the debate, her association would come up with a policy document.

‘We’re going to be collaborating with relevant government stakeholders and relevant ministries, agencies, and departments of the government to ensure that this policy is translated into law to limit the consumption of this substance.

‘We know that outright ban may be a tall order. But then again, we are advocating that the control should be more effective,’ she said.

Speaking on ‘How the tobacco and nicotine industry is exploiting vulnerable youths’, Chente Okoli commended the organisers of the event, adding that it would go a long way in educating the young minds on the dangers of emerging addictive products such as e-cigarettes, nicotine pouches and synthetic nicotine devices.

Okoli, who is a certified emotions doctor, highlighted the need for youth to avoid substance abuse no matter the challenge facing them.

‘There’s no need for them to run to substance abuse, just to be able to pour down some emotions.

‘It is ideal for youth to be able to navigate things head on and not look for easy way to come out of that situation.

‘The tobacco and the nicotine industry are doing a lot of things to bring in new appealing products so as to lure these youth who are leaders of tomorrow in to substance use.

‘The way to prevent this is to educate the youth on time on the dangers of substance abuse and that will enable them take the right decision,’ she said.

Halima Lawan, head, Business Development Africa, Study Now, regretted that a lot of young students have gone into use of tobacco, adding that many start from cigarettes, down to drugs, alcohol, among others.

Lawan called for more awareness on the dangers associated with substance use, adding that such would make the youth understand the consequences that come with it.

Speaking on ‘Psychology of nicotine addiction, mental health and relationship therapist, Jacinta Powell, said that nicotine targets adolescents because they are little children who do not have ability to say no.

She stressed the need for parents to be present in their children’s lives, adding ‘parents need to be present in their children’s lives, because they are the ones who will make decisions for them that the children cannot make themselves.’.

Ikeja Senior High School Lagos emerged winner of the debate which was the second in its series; clinching N200,000 prize money.

African football has reached an unprecedented milestone at the FIFA 2026 World Cup, with nine of the continent’s 10 representatives qualifying for the Round of 32 in the most successful campaign in Africa’s World Cup history.

The expanded 48-team tournament has provided African nations with their greatest collective achievement, surpassing all previous editions. Before 2026, only six African countries had ever reached the World Cup knockout stages, doing so on just 11 occasions.

The nine African teams to advance are Algeria, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, DR Congo, Egypt, Ghana, Morocco, Senegal and South Africa. Tunisia were the continent’s only casualty in the group stage.

A new benchmark for Africa

The feat shatters Africa’s previous record of two teams reaching the knockout stage, set at both the 2014 and 2022 World Cups.

Several African nations also produced memorable results against global heavyweights, taking points off Brazil, Spain, Belgium and Uruguay to underline the continent’s growing strength on the world stage.

Historic milestones across the continent

Morocco continued the momentum from its historic 2022 campaign, when it became the first African nation to reach a World Cup semi-final. The Atlas Lions finished second in Group C after earning a valuable draw against Brazil, proving their success in Qatar was no fluke.

Senegal extended its reputation as one of Africa’s most consistent World Cup performers by reaching the knockout stage once again. The Lions of Teranga first captured global attention with their quarter-final run on their tournament debut in 2002.

Ghana also advanced, adding another chapter to a World Cup history that includes its famous run to the quarter-finals in 2010.

Egypt celebrated a historic breakthrough by reaching the knockout rounds for the first time. Africa’s first World Cup representative, who debuted in 1934, finally advanced beyond the group stage after nearly a century.

Algeria booked their place in the Round of 32 following a dramatic 3-3 draw with Austria.

South Africa also reached the knockout stage for the first time in the nation’s history, while Ivory Coast celebrated its maiden qualification beyond the group phase after an impressive campaign.

DR Congo made history by recording the country’s first-ever World Cup victories and securing a place in the knockout rounds. The nation previously competed as Zaire in 1974.

Tournament debutants Cape Verde emerged as one of the biggest surprises of the competition, becoming the smallest nation by population ever to reach the World Cup knockout stage after holding Spain and Uruguay to draws.

Eyes on more history

With nine teams still in contention, Africa has already secured its most successful FIFA World Cup campaign.

Attention now turns to the knockout rounds, where the continent’s representatives will attempt to surpass Morocco’s semi-final run in 2022 and continue rewriting World Cup history.

African Round of 32 Fixtures:

South Africa vs Canada – June 28, 8:00 p.m. – Los Angeles Stadium

Morocco vs Netherlands – June 30, 2:00 a.m. – Estadio Monterrey

Ivory Coast vs Norway – June 30, 6:00 p.m. – Dallas Stadium

DR Congo vs England – July 1, 5:00 a.m. – Atlanta Stadium

Senegal vs Belgium – July 1, 9:00 p.m. – Seattle Stadium

Algeria vs Switzerland – July 3, 4:00 a.m. – BC Place, Vancouver

Egypt vs Australia – July 3, 7:00 p.m. – Dallas Stadium

Cape Verde vs Argentina – July 3, 11:00 p.m. – Miami Stadium

Ghana vs Colombia – July 4, 2:30 a.m. – Kansas City Stadium

With Brent crude prices declining by 4.44% to $71.92pb on on easing supply concerns over stranded oil tankers at the Strait of Hormuz, Nigeria’s high oil production is cushioning the effects on the economy. The oil production surge is linked to successful operations by the Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd (TSSNL), which for years achieved peace and stability in the Niger Delta region. The regional peace has accelerated oil production, helping Nigeria absorb revenue shortfalls from the decline in oil prices.

In every thriving economy, there is always the urgent need to protect strategic assets.

Doing so comes with so many benefits, including building stability and confidence that lead to national prosperity.

Nigeria’s experience with pipeline surveillance operations in the Niger Delta region has followed this trajectory.

For decades, Nigeria’s oil pipelines operated under persistent attack, exposed to sabotage, vandalism, illegal refining and outright theft.

Aside from lost revenue, environmental degradation, social instability, and an economy unable to fully benefit from its oil windfalls were the immediate consequences.

That practice persisted until President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL) led by High Chief, Dr. Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, to protect Nigeria’s oil assets in the Niger Delta region.

The appointment was to enable TSSNL, through its security operations, to support the national economy in getting the full benefits of oil resources.

The TSSNL works in collaboration with other security outfits to achieve its goals of securing oil assets and ensuring peace and stability in the Niger Delta region.

Tantita’s operations had ensured the security of oil pipelines, ensuring the uninterrupted flow of petroleum resources, and ensuring that Nigeria migrated from a position of constant loss management to stability, planning, growth and development.

Impact on oil production output

This impact is already of public knowledge: national crude output climbed significantly. Data released by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) showed Nigeria’s crude oil production topped its OPEC quota in May, reaching its pinnacle in 15 months and cementing its position as Africa’s leading oil producer.

The report said the country produced an average of 1.53 million barrels of crude oil per day (bpd) during the month.

With a condensate production of 170,446 bpd included, the commission put Nigeria’s average total hydrocarbon output at 1.7 million bpd.

‘Nigeria’s oil production witnessed an upswing in May 2026, averaging 1,530,354 barrels of crude oil and 170,446 barrels of condensates per day, bringing the total combined production to 1,700, 800 barrels per day and consolidating Nigeria’s position as Africa’s largest oil producer,’ NUPRC said in a statement.

The figure represents 102 per cent of Nigeria’s OPEC production quota of 1.5 million bpd, according to the regulator. The latest performance marks a significant milestone for the country’s oil sector, with total production standing at its peak since last July, when the combined crude oil and condensate output reached 1.71 million bpd.

With the figure for condensates excluded, the 1.53 million bpd in May represents Nigeria’s strongest performance since January 2025, when output touched 1.538 million bpd. The May figure also represents a 15-month high for crude oil production, excluding condensates.

An economist and policy analyst, Dr Muda Yusuf, explained that while a price drop in crude oil will naturally translate to a reduction in the pump prices of petrol, diesel, Jet A1 and gas, on the flip side, it portends a drop in revenue for the federal government.

Yusuf said that while security interventions have helped improve production levels compared to previous years, Nigeria still faces significant challenges in attracting the scale of investment required to sustain higher output levels.

Other analysts noted that while government reforms under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) have improved the fiscal environment for investors, sustainable production growth requires more domestic and foreign investment into the sector.

Michael Otu, an oil magnet based in Abuja, said: ‘To sell more crude oil requires additional production. The capacity to produce more depends on several factors, including fiscal regime, which is much better now than it used to be. The second is investment in the sector’.

Out said that raising crude oil output requires significant capital expenditure and long-term planning by operators, adding that higher oil prices alone do not automatically translate into increased production.

‘The PIA policy was to incentivise production. A lot of the amendments made through executive orders were also designed to boost investment and drive output,’ he stated.

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission attributed much of this gain to reduced pipeline vandalism and improved asset protection. This production recovery has direct fiscal implications: each additional 100,000 barrels per day translates to approximately $2.5-3 billion in annual export revenue at current pricing, funds that flow directly into national development budgets.

In a published report, President General, Niger Delta Progressive Alliance, Nse Victor Udoh, said pipeline protection enabled national institutions to progress from reactive crisis management to strategic foresight, from temporary containment to durable systems-building, and from uncertainty-driven decisions to calculated national ambition.

‘It is important to clarify the role of pipeline surveillance within the wider energy landscape. Energy security encompasses the full value chain, from exploration and production to refining, distribution, pricing policy, and subsidy frameworks. Pipeline surveillance does not manage these domains,’ he said.

He added: ‘Its mandate is precise: safeguarding critical infrastructure that transports petroleum resources. Yet this single function has proven foundational. Without secure transportation channels, production targets falter, refining plans collapse, exports decline, and fiscal projections become unreliable.’

Continuing, he wrote: ‘Asset protection, in this context, is not a supporting activity. It is a precondition for economic order. In effect, the pipeline is the hinge on which the entire petroleum value chain turns. When that hinge is weak, every other link in the chain carries strain. When it is secure, the entire system gains coherence.’

The immediate impact has been operational. Sustained monitoring and rapid response systems have sharply reduced pipeline breaches and illegal tapping. Receipt rates have climbed toward full recovery, with national output rising to levels not seen in recent memory.

This redirection has restored Nigeria’s credibility in international oil markets, allowing Nigeria to reclaim market share lost to Angola and Libya.

‘Economic stability follows predictability. When crude flows are secure, refineries can plan feedstock intake with assurance. Export commitments can be met without fear of sudden shortfalls. Gas-to-power projects can operate without recurrent shutdown risks’.

‘Investors can assess Nigeria’s petroleum sector with clearer risk profiles. Surveillance, therefore, does more than stop theft. It reintroduces reliability into national energy planning. And reliability is the bedrock upon which sustainable economic growth is built. With predictable flows, national budgeting becomes more credible, infrastructure planning becomes more precise, and long-term contracts become easier to negotiate. Predictability is the silent currency of modern economies, and pipeline surveillance has begun restoring it,’ he stated.

Further benefits extend into public finance. Higher accounted-for production translates directly into increased export revenues, improved foreign exchange inflows, and strengthened fiscal capacity. National oil company performance in recent years illustrates this shift toward profitability and efficiency, driven in part by reduced losses and enhanced operational continuity.

As revenues stabilise, government budgeting gains credibility. Development planning becomes less speculative. The national economy gains breathing space to invest in infrastructure, social services, and diversification. This breathing space matters. It allows policymakers to think beyond survival and begin shaping structural reforms, industrial expansion, and long-term social investment. It also reduces dependence on emergency borrowing and short-term fiscal patchwork.

Asset protection has also produced environmental and social dividends, particularly in the Niger Delta. Illegal refining and pipeline sabotage once left waterways polluted, farmlands infertile, and communities trapped in cycles of hazard and insecurity. With sustained surveillance operations dismantling illegal sites and preventing repeated breaches, ecological recovery has begun.

What other stakeholders are saying

Chairman of the House Committee on Host Communities, Dekor Dumnamene Robinson, had said the contributions of Tantita and its leadership to national security deserve appreciation.

Also, in one of the strongest endorsements yet of the firm’s operations, lawmakers under the Joint Committee of the House of Representatives on Host Communities and Public Petitions and other stakeholders also commended Tantita for what they described as effective and patriotic service in safeguarding Nigeria’s critical oil infrastructure.

‘Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, in partnership with NNPCL, has rendered demonstrably effective service in the protection of crude oil pipelines and the recovery of national crude oil production,’ they stated.

The Joint Committee subsequently passed a unanimous vote of confidence on the company and called on the Federal Government and NNPCL to approve a long-term renewal of the surveillance contract to consolidate gains already achieved in the fight against crude oil theft and illegal bunkering.

‘Tompolo and his team have served this country at great personal risk. They have kept the economic lifeline of the nation running and restored peace to communities that had not experienced peace in decades,’ he said.

The National Chairman of Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas (HOSTCOM), His Highness Benjamin Style Tamaranebi JP

had further commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the confidence he has reposed in Tantita as a critical part of the security apparatus for protecting oil assets in the Niger Delta.

Global oil market condition

Oil prices dropped significantly as markets became confident that Strait of Hormuz disruptions would decrease. This has led to 10% drop on Brent prices and Middle East crude benchmarks slipping into contango.

Whilst ship transits through the Strait of Hormuz remain a fraction of their previous norm (130-140 transits per day), plunging crude oil prices suggest the commodity markets anticipate that flows would start to recover sooner rather than later.

The two Middle Eastern crude benchmarks, Dubai and Murban, have flipped into contango, as a temporary period of oversupply is sending ripples across the Asian markets. Logging a hefty 10% weekly loss, ICE Brent will close the week around $72 per barrel, the same level that it was before the US attack on Iran on February 28.

Crude transits through the Strait of Hormuz rose to the highest weekly tally since the onset of the US-Iran conflict this week, with more than 16 million barrels passing through the waterway last week, Wednesday-Thursday, raising hopes of a full, gradual reopening.

However, there are rising fears that Hormuz transit could be choked off again, Iran’s IRG fired several drones at the Taiwan-owned Ever Lovely cargo ship, attempting to cross the Hormuz through ‘ unauthorised routes, damaging the vessel’s bridge some 7 miles off the Omani coast.

According to report, the main reason for the price drop was more good news about the agreement between the United States and Iran. The deal aims to end the recent fighting and let normal oil shipping start again through the Strait of Hormuz.

Findings from reports during the week said the two sides were working out final details on how and when the important shipping route would reopen. They were also talking about letting Iran sell more of its oil again under a special waiver from U.S. sanctions.

Traders saw these steps as clear signs that hundreds of thousands of barrels of Iranian crude could return to the global market sooner than expected.

The African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) and Dev-Afrique Development Advisors have entered into a partnership aimed at supporting African governments in strengthening conservation efforts, improving environmental governance, and advancing policy reform linked to sustainable development.

The collaboration is designed to help governments and regional institutions better integrate natural capital into planning and decision-making, while also improving the tools and systems used to manage biodiversity, land use, and ecosystem resources. It brings together AWF’s long-standing conservation experience with Dev-Afrique’s expertise in governance advisory, institutional strengthening, data systems, and geospatial technology.

Under the agreement, both organisations will work with public institutions and development partners to design and implement practical solutions that connect conservation goals with economic development priorities. A key focus will be ensuring that policies are not only developed but also effectively implemented through stronger institutions, improved data, and technical support.

Speaking on the partnership, Kaddu Sebunya, chief executive officer, AWF, said Africa’s natural resources are central to the continent’s future prosperity.

‘Across Africa, there is growing recognition that our natural capital is not only an environmental asset but a foundation for economic growth, resilience, and prosperity,’ he said.

‘Realizsng this opportunity requires strong institutions, sound data, effective planning, and partnerships that can bridge the gap between vision and implementation.’

He emphasised that stronger decision-making systems are essential for ensuring conservation delivers long-term benefits for both people and ecosystems.

Ridwan M. Sorunke, founder and managing principal of Dev-Afrique, said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to African-led solutions that address both governance and environmental challenges.

‘Africa’s future will increasingly depend on how effectively we manage the intersection of economic development, governance, and natural capital,’ he said.

‘By combining AWF’s conservation leadership with Dev-Afrique’s advisory and implementation expertise, we see an opportunity to develop practical, scalable solutions that strengthen conservation outcomes, support governments and institutions, and help translate Africa’s biodiversity ambitions into measurable impact.’

The partnership will be implemented through AWF’s Strategic Solutions Group, which is intended to provide advisory and implementation support for conservation and development initiatives across the continent.

Both organisations say the goal is to close the gap between policy design and execution, ensuring that conservation and sustainability commitments translate into measurable impact on the ground.

What Enugu is witnessing currently is the unleashing of transformative projects by the Mbah administration in leaps and bounds. Mbah seems to be in a hurry to take Enugu State to higher pedestals in his development agenda for the state. Eyes have not seen, nor has it entered the hearts of men, what Mbah prepares for the people of Enugu State. In two days, Mbah has launched a landmark centre for DNA and Forensics at Godfrey Okoye University, Ugwuomu, Nike in Enugu State, which is unprecedented in Africa, the first of its kind in Africa, and the concessioning of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport and the Cargo wing to Aero Alliance Limited.

The governor does not look back. He is resolutely determined to do the unheard-of things in the state. While you are yet to recover from the pleasant daze of one unexpected and unprecedented project, Mbah comes up with another. The people of Enugu State are enthralled at Mbah’s development initiatives and can only thank God as they drink largely to the lees the spring Mbah is stirred. Mbah navigates the landscape with ubiquitous inclination, as his multisectoral approach touches everywhere deeply.

The established DNA and Forensic Centre is taking security to another level. Enugu had gone far in security with the Command-and-Control Centre, the DRS, the AI-embedded surveillance cameras with capacity for facial and plate number recognition installed on the DRS vehicles and in strategic places in the state, and the procurement of supersonic drones that fly the length and breadth of the Enugu sky and chase criminals cold. The addition of the DNA and Forensics Centre is top-notch, for while settling paternity issues, it flies off the handle with forensic analytics, making for adequacy in the security trajectories of the state. This is the application of scientific and analytical techniques to investigate crimes, resolve legal disputes, or uncover the facts behind complex situations. This actually makes the whole security situation of the state, and Mbah sends strong message to criminals to back out of Enugu State in their own interest, if any interest they have got at all.

The concession of the Akanu Ibiam Airport to Aero Alliance Limited in the mode of Public-Private Partnership (PPP) is the meeting point of private enterprise and visionary leadership cutting across the Tinubu administration at the national level, given that aviation is in the Exclusive List, and the Mbah administration for facilitating it for a common purpose. According to Governor Mbah, the concession is an enabler for the state to expand the Enugu Air fleet to 20, in anticipation of regional and international opportunities the international airport engenders, as flights will be expanded regionally and internationally. It offers economic possibilities in business and logistics, as an efficiently managed international airport will palliate regional and international constraints in logistics and business delivery.

The governor said that the airport occupies an important place in connecting the opportunities already created in the other sectors. It is in line with his endeavor to create an economy that works for everyone and competes globally. A modern and globally competitive economy works far beyond the confines of aviation. It supports hotels, restaurants, transport, artisans, vendors and small businesses. According to the governor, it attracts conferences, exhibitions and business events. It strengthens investor’s confidence, opens new opportunities for local businesses and exports, and deepens regional integration and global value chain.

Incidentally, Mbah’s development trajectories rub off on the entire South East region. Mbah thinks globally, and his projects are such that have local content with international reach, thereby repositioning Enugu State in the global map. This is how to be a governor. With the catch-them-young educational policy and the smart green school programme, Mbah has also placed the Enugu State human capital development at the global cutting-edge positioning, a shift that in time to come would make Enugu a place for the harvest of the best that is known in all the world.

The world is aware there is a governor in Enugu State who is pushing the frontiers for innovation and technological advancement of his people. Nigeria is also in the know that what Enugu has got for a governor is not ordinary. The people of Enugu State are aware they are headed for vistas of many opportunities, advancements and disruptive innovation yet to obtain anywhere. Thanks to Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah.