Category: Business Day

The imbroglio between ARISE TV anchor Rufai Oseni and Works Minister Dave Umahi stemmed from a contentious live interview, which revealed a clash of personalities alongside deeper issues concerning a major infrastructure project.

Rufai Oseni challenged the minister on policy and personal titles. He alleged that the minister reported him to President Bola Tinubu. In response, David Umahi deemed the journalist ‘too small’ to report to the President and told him to ‘keep quiet.’

The dispute arose from Oseni’s persistent questioning about the transparency and details of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, including its cost per kilometre and loan aspects. Umahi responded defensively, dismissing Oseni’s claims and accusing him of lacking the technical expertise to discuss the project.

The Coastal Highway Project was under debate. Rufai questioned Umahi about the project’s costs. Umahi defended the transparency of the project and its variable costs, stating that oversubscription for the loan elements served as proof of sound budgeting.

Next, Rufai referenced ongoing court cases related to property demolitions for the project. He cited demolitions at Winhomes, a project by Nigerian diasporans. The minister clarified that some cases were dismissed, questioned Winhomes’ legitimacy, and emphasised the importance of protecting diaspora investments.

Oseni challenged Umahi’s self-proclaimed ‘professor in engineering’ title. However, Umahi clarified it was a professorship earned through practical experience, not academia.

Deeper Issues: The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway

The personal clash during the interview overshadowed the substantive policy issues related to the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, which were the intended topic of discussion.

Key points of the conflict

Emotional tensions escalated with dismissive and belittling remarks from Umahi, such as ‘You are too small’ and ‘You don’t understand anything.’

Oseni maintained a call for accountability despite the tension, emphasising the role of a free and courageous press.

Cost and Transparency: Oseni’s line of questioning addressed public concerns regarding the project’s cost. In his defence, Umahi argued that no two sections of a road project cost the same per kilometre and stated that the loan component for the project was oversubscribed by international banks, which he cited as validation of the project’s cost-effectiveness.

Property Demolitions and the Winhomes Dispute: The minister addressed the legal disputes surrounding the Winhomes development, questioning the legality of the land sale and the status of the so-called ‘diaspora investors’. He acknowledged ongoing court cases but stated that no court injunction had halted the project’s progress. Umahi emphasised the government’s commitment to protecting legitimate investments, saying the administration would not let the Winhomes issue ‘damage the Tinubu administration’s relations with diaspora investors’.

A Divided Public Reaction

The incident sparked significant debate on social media, with public opinion divided.

Some viewers criticised Umahi for what they perceived as an undignified and arrogant outburst, revealing the character of public officials.

Others blamed Oseni, claiming his interviewing style was disrespectful and counterproductive, hindering a meaningful discussion on a vital topic.

Another segment of commentators criticised both parties, feeling that the unprofessional exchange diverted attention from critical issues of public accountability.

Opinion: Oseni versus Umahi

The interview session between Oseni, the controversial Arise TV anchor, and the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi has taken place, but the fallout persists. As expected, the interview was poor, as neither Oseni nor Umahi showed enough respect to each other.

Oseni is fiery, passionate, and self-opinionated, which isn’t quite a bad trait for a journalist hosting a morning show. Umahi is arrogant, petty, and delusional, which harms his role as a public officer.Both sides need to adjust. Oseni should realise that a journalist’s role is not to label someone as a fraud or a criminal, but to reveal if the person is untruthful, dishonest, or unqualified. He does this subtly by asking tough, sometimes misleading, questions. Oseni should balance passion with wisdom.

Minister Umahi needs a reminder that he is no longer the Governor of Ebonyi; he should not believe everything is within his control. No, sir. Nothing is under your authority now. You are a public servant. A minister has no inherent importance. A minister is an aide to someone the people elected (setting aside the specifics of the 2023 election for now), and that person is expected to be responsive and accountable. So, when you next appear at a public forum, present your best points, try to smile even when heckled, and trust that your look and body language convey a clear message.

Yes, sir, you are a big man. But you are still a public servant. And you are no longer a Governor, a Governor of a state you bestrode like a colossus.

Readers, you already know I am biased in this piece. I am prejudiced against official pomposity. I rejoice at a bit of deflation, even if it comes through a wave of unprofessionalism.

-Dr Sam Amadi

Spencer Umoren

Rufai is crude, rude, unprofessional and uncouth. Shameful

Guests can be whatever they want; the anchor needs to maintain decorum, professionalism, and emotional intelligence.

Only barely educated and ignorant folks will say anything positive about Rufai’s conduct

Meanwhile, tell the self-obsessed little man, we have Alternative Phrases to his childish, overused ’empirical fact’. Just disgusting

1. Observed fact

2. Measured fact

3. Experimental fact.

4. Data-driven fact.

5. Evidence-based fact

OVERHEARD

Suppose the cost per kilometre is a challenging question. How, then, did they arrive at the total cost of the project, which served as the basis for Federal Executive Council approval?

Northwest Nigeria: Security, Humanitarian, Economic Crisis

The Northwest region of Nigeria is currently facing a complex and severe crisis, dominated by widespread violence from armed groups, a severe humanitarian situation, and significant economic challenges.

Principal actors are bandits and other armed groups. Their primary motivation is criminality and profit, including ransom, cattle rustling, and control of mineral resources. Often, these issues are driven by historical grievances and disputes over resources.

The common tactics and impact include mass kidnappings (e.g., hundreds of schoolchildren), violent raids on villages, and mass killings. An estimated 30,000 bandits operate in the region.

Then there are Jihadist factions. They are primarily motivated by ideological insurgency, aiming to impose Islamic law. They deploy targeted attacks on military, communities, and infrastructure. ISWAP was the most prolific Islamic State affiliate globally by mid-2025.

There is a convergence between bandits and jihadists. They form transactional alliances where jihadists provide training and ideology in exchange for bandits’ safe passage and access to resources. This blurs the line between crime and insurgency, enhances operational capabilities, and broadens extremist influence. The designated terrorist group Lakurawa is an example.

Humanitarian and Social Impact

The relentless violence has had a devastating impact on the population of Northwest Nigeria.

Mass Displacement and Casualties: By April 2024, over 1.3 million people were internally displaced in the North-central and Northwest regions due to violence. In the first half of 2025 alone, insurgent and bandit violence killed at least 2,266 people, a figure that surpassed the total for all of 2024.

Targeted Attacks on Education: Attacks on schools and mass kidnappings of students are frequent. In March 2024, nearly 400 people were reportedly kidnapped in Kaduna State, including 287 schoolchildren.

Crippled Essential Services: The insecurity severely disrupts basic services, such as healthcare. Volunteer vaccinators in Zamfara State risk their lives to reach children, navigating bandit attacks and flooded terrain to administer polio vaccines.

Economic Context and Challenges

The security crisis is set against a backdrop of significant economic hardship.

Deepening Poverty: Nationwide, Nigeria faces its worst cost-of-living crisis in 30 years. Soaring inflation, especially for food, is pushing millions further into poverty.

Resource-Fuelled Conflict: The violence is partly financed by the region’s abundant mineral resources (gold, copper, lithium), which armed groups exploit to fund their operations. While the federal government is implementing macroeconomic reforms, these improvements have yet to result in better living standards for most Nigerians.

The situation in Northwest Nigeria remains fluid and highly dangerous, characterised by a volatile mix of criminality, ideological insurgency, and deep-seated socio-economic problems.

In a move to contribute to sports development among the youth in Nigeria, over 8,000 students from secondary schools across Ondo State would be participating in an inter-school football competition, organised by Johnvents Foods Limited.

The agribusiness company, which has some of its factories in Ondo State, including Ile-Oluji Cocoa Processing Industry, launched the competition on Thursday at the Akungba Business School, Akure, Ondo State capital.

Tagged ‘Johnvents Apex League,’ the inter-school competition, according to the Managing Director of Johnvents Foods Limited, Mr. Ademola Aramide-Atolagbe, was designed to help young people in schools discover their potentials, build teamwork, and develop leadership skills through sports.

He explained that the football league would run for six months, attracting over 8,000 students of secondary schools.

Aramide-Atolagbe said: ‘The six-month tournament will bring together 16 secondary schools from across Ondo State, engaging more than 8,000 students through mentorship and sports-based learning.

‘The initiative builds on the company’s vision to use sports as a platform for youth empowerment, education, and community development, an extension of its brand philosophy, ‘Creating Unforgettable Food Moments.’

‘Our mission at Johnvents has always been to nourish lives and invest in the future of our communities.

‘Sports provide a unique opportunity to do both: shaping the minds, discipline, and character of young people who will lead tomorrow. ‘For us, Creating Unforgettable Food Moments goes beyond products; it’s about creating real impact that lasts.’

The state Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Igbekele Ajibefun, who was present at the launch, commended Johnvents Foods Limited for the initiative.

He described the competition as a timely contribution to youth development and education in Ondo State.

Ajibefun emphasised that education goes beyond classroom learning, highlighting the importance of sports in building discipline, teamwork, and character among students.

He said: ‘Education goes beyond the classroom. What Johnvents Foods is doing connects learning, discipline, and passion in a way that develops well-rounded students.

‘By investing in these young minds, Johnvents is helping to raise future leaders who can excel both academically and personally.’

Moreover, the Managing Director of Johnvents Foods Limited explained that ‘As part of its commitment, Johnvents Foods will provide participating schools with sports kits, materials, and nutritional support to ensure that every stage of the competition benefits students both on and off the field.

‘The Johnvents Apex League is powered by Johnvents 3 in 1 Chocolate, the company’s flagship beverage brand known for its promise of ‘Instant Goodness.’

The rules of work have changed. For decades, Nigerians were taught to pursue degrees, secure stable employment, and climb the organisational ladder. But in today’s economy, those once-dependable steps no longer guarantee success. The question facing millions of professionals is urgent: how do I stand out and stay relevant in such a competitive world of work? The answer lies in two interconnected strategies: personal branding and skill monetisation. Together, they are shaping a new definition of career success in Nigeria.

Nigeria is a nation of talent and ambition. Each year, over 500,000 graduates enter the job market, according to the National Universities Commission (NUC). Yet unemployment remains stubbornly high, with youth unemployment around 33 percent and underemployment even higher. Too many degree holders are competing for too few roles, while employers lament a shortage of adaptable, creative talent. This paradox highlights a painful truth: certificates alone no longer guarantee opportunity. A degree may open the door, but it is your skills and how you present and apply them that determine whether you thrive once inside.

Personal branding is not vanity. It is about communicating your value clearly and consistently so that opportunities can find you. In today’s digital-first world, your brand is often the first introduction, long before a CV or handshake. For Nigerian professionals, it is a necessary career survival strategy. Employers, clients, and partners are drawn to those who demonstrate credibility, authenticity, and impact. A strong personal brand says, ‘This is who I am, this is what I do, and this is why it matters.’

Consider the rise of professionals who share insights on LinkedIn, showcase projects online, or speak at industry events. These are not accidental moves. They are deliberate strategies to ensure visibility in a crowded marketplace. And the results are telling: increased recognition, expanded networks, and new income opportunities.

Skill monetisation as a career pathway

Alongside branding is the equally urgent need for skill monetisation. With technology democratising access to global markets, professionals no longer have to rely solely on traditional employment. Teaching, consulting, content creation, digital product development, and strategic partnerships offer real opportunities to turn skills into sustainable income.

We are witnessing the rise of Nigerian professionals offering masterclasses, creating niche consultancies, or packaging local expertise for international audiences as international coaches or digital legal advisors. What was once a ‘side hustle’ is fast becoming the backbone of new industries and, collectively, a driver of national economic growth. If branding is visibility, monetisation is sustainability. Monetising skills creates multiple income streams, financial resilience, and the freedom to shape work on one’s own terms.

I recall working with a young pharmacist who, despite her competence, felt invisible in her career. She began sharing health education tips on social media, soon gaining recognition as a trusted voice. Over time, she built an online wellness brand, launched virtual consultations, and partnered with corporate organisations on health campaigns. What began as frustration transformed into financial growth. Her story is not unique. Across Nigeria, countless professionals are discovering that when you take ownership of your skills and brand, opportunities multiply. It is not an easy journey, but it is one that redefines what success looks like for every professional.

Globally, the future of work is defined by adaptability. Automation, artificial intelligence, and economic shocks are reshaping industries at dizzying speed. Nigeria, with its young and ambitious population, cannot afford to ignore this reality. The time has come for Nigerian professionals to reframe how they view their careers. Instead of asking, ‘Where will I work?’ the more urgent question is, ‘How can my skills create value, and how do I communicate that value to the world?’

For businesses, this means rethinking recruitment and development strategies to prioritise skills and creativity over certificates. For individuals, it means investing in continuous learning, building visible personal brands, and exploring monetisation opportunities that can withstand economic uncertainty. The future of work in Nigeria will belong to those who are ready to take ownership of their skills, brand their expertise, and build income streams that are as dynamic as the economy they operate in.

But to fully embrace this future, a mindset shift is necessary. Parents must move beyond the narrow definition of success as medicine, law, or engineering and instead encourage children to master skills that solve modern problems. Universities and institutions must align education with employability, placing practical skills and entrepreneurship at the heart of their programmes. Businesses must open their doors to freelancers, innovators, and creators who bring new ways of thinking. And individuals must take responsibility for continuous learning, growth, and visibility. Waiting for opportunities is no longer enough.

Personal branding and skill monetisation prepare professionals to navigate uncertainty. They empower individuals to adapt, pivot, and create value across industries and borders. For a country where over 60 percent of the population is under 25, this shift is imperative. When professionals thrive, businesses grow. And when businesses grow, the economy strengthens.

Farouk Lawan, former member of the House of Representatives, has expressed deep gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for granting him a presidential pardon, describing the gesture as a renewal of hope and restoration of faith in the country.

President Tinubu granted clemency to Lawan and several others on Thursday.

Lawan, who represented the Bagwai/Shanono constituency of Kano State, was at the centre of a major corruption scandal in 2012 after he was accused of demanding a $3 million bribe from billionaire businessman Femi Otedola.

The payment was allegedly to facilitate the removal of Otedola’s company, Zenon Petroleum and Gas Limited, from the list of firms implicated in the petrol subsidy fraud.

At the height of the controversy, videos circulated widely on social media showing Lawan stuffing wads of cash into his traditional outfit and under his cap.

He was subsequently arraigned on seven counts of bribery by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). In June 2021, a Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Apo convicted him on three counts and sentenced him to seven years in prison.

In February 2022, the Court of Appeal discharged and acquitted Lawan on two of the three counts but upheld his conviction on one count, reducing the sentence to five years. The Supreme Court, in January 2024, affirmed the appellate court’s judgment.

Lawan completed his five-year prison term in October 2024.

Reacting to his pardon in a statement, the former lawmaker described Tinubu as ‘a fatherly, compassionate, and decisive political leader.’

‘To a fatherly, compassionate, and decisive political leader, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, God, and history shall remember you,’ he said.

‘Mr President has cast a warm blanket over me, pulling me back from the harshness of yesterday’s cold. A day like this is not for a long treatise. I lie, prostrate utterly humble in my heart and entire being, grateful for the mercy which Allah (SWT), through Mr. President and my country have shown me.’

Reflecting on his ordeal, Lawan acknowledged his family and supporters for standing by him. ‘During the eclipse at noon of my life, a path designed by destiny, a past with which I am fully reconciled, my family, friends and associates stood by me through thick and thin, their light became my singular unfailing beacon. I remain eternally indebted to you. May Allah (SWT) recompense you.’

He added that his faith in Nigeria’s potential never wavered. ‘Throughout those moments of sober reflection, my faith in the greatness of our Fatherland never wavered, nor did my resolve to contribute to it ever weaken. A re-dedication to the ideals of Nigeria is upon me. My hope is renewed.’

Lawan said the pardon has restored his sense of purpose and commitment to national service. ‘My family and I, along with my friends and associates in Kano State and across Nigeria, are indescribably grateful to Mr. President for drafting me back into active citizenship with its unavoidable service imperative.’

Katsina State Government has signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) with Revive, a Belgian-based international Non-governmental organisation (NGO), to provide medical services and training focused on breast and cervical cancer treatment for women in the state.

The partnership will see a team of 25 medical professionals visit Katsina for two weeks to provide medical services, conduct diagnoses, and train local healthcare workers.

Speaking on the partnership during the delegation visit to Belgium, Musa Adamu Funtua, commissioner for Health, said the partnership aimed at combating breast and cervical cancer among women in the state.

‘We are committed to ensuring that our women have access to quality healthcare services, and this partnership is a testament to our government’s dedication to improving the health and well-being of our citizens,’ the commissioner said.

Speaking on the partnership, the wife of the Governor, Fatima Dikko Radda, expressed profound satisfaction with the MoU, describing it as a game-changer for women’s health in Katsina State.

‘This collaboration is deeply personal to me because I have witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of breast and cervical cancer on our women. Many suffer in silence due to lack of access to early detection and treatment. This partnership with Revive will change that narrative by bringing world-class medical expertise directly to our women,’ Fatima Radda stated.

She commended Governor Dikko Umaru Radda for his unwavering commitment to healthcare development and pledged to continue chasampioning initiatives that improve the health and well-being of women and children across the state.

‘As a mother and advocate for women’s welfare, I am committed to ensuring that no woman in Katsina State dies from preventable diseases. This medical mission is just the beginning, and I call on all women to take advantage of this life-saving opportunity,’ she added. In her remarks, Hadiza Yar’adua, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, stated that three medical oncologists from Katsina will also travel to Belgium for hands-on training at a leading teaching hospital. Yar’adua disclosed that the delegation, which included Dr. Gadafi (Oncologist), Dr. Aliyu (Medical Director, Primary Healthcare Katsina), and Aisha Mukhtar (SSA to the Governor’s wife), visited Belgium last week to engage with the Board of Directors and medical professionals of Revive.

She noted that the collaboration focuses on women’s health, particularly breast and cervical cancer, which affects one in every ten women.

‘This partnership represents another milestone in our continuous effort to promote preventive healthcare, strengthen medical capacity, and ensure that women have access to quality and lifesaving services,’ Yar’adua stated.

The Commissioner for Women Affairs noted that over the past two years, the Radda administration has made significant investments in the health sector, upgrading Primary Healthcare Centres across all 361 wards and equipping hospitals with modern medical facilities.

‘The next step in this progress is to invest in our human capital by strengthening the capacity of our medical professionals and building strategic partnerships that can bring lasting impact,’ Yar’adua emphasised.

The partnership is expected to strengthen Katsina State’s capacity to combat women’s cancer and improve overall healthcare delivery across the state.

Drug-resistant infections now kill more Africans than HIV/AIDS or malaria, signaling a new era of global health insecurity, according to Gatefield, a public strategy organisation.

If unchecked, Gatefield warned that antimicrobial resistance could claim 10 million lives annually by 2050, surpassing cancer as the world’s leading cause of death.

According to the organisation, Africa’s health systems are under unprecedented pressure; from rising chronic diseases, drug-resistant infections, to underfunded mental and women’s health services which threaten millions of lives.

‘Warning signs are clear: one in three adults has high blood pressure, one in three people can obtain antibiotics without a prescription, and when antibiotics fail, even simple infections can turn deadly. The erosion of basic health protections threatens to reverse decades of progress in life expectancy, economic growth, and stability’, the organisation stated.

In addition, it noted that fewer than 8% of people across the region have health insurance, even as the burden of chronic diseases rises faster here than anywhere else in the world.

‘Nearly one in four African lives is cut short by non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Behind these numbers lies a deeper crisis of access, equity, and investment. Africa carries 25% of the world’s disease burden but receives only 3% of global health spending. Each year, 150 million Africans face catastrophic health expenses that push families into poverty, underscoring the fragility of financing systems’, the statement added.

Gatefield further expressed concerns that women’s health and mental health remain critically under-resourced with 116 million Africans living with mental health conditions, yet less than 2% of global health funding targets the crisis. Against this backdrop, the organisation explained that the Gatefield Health Summit 2025 in Abuja from October 22 will convene global and regional leaders to define a new agenda for resilient health futures, noting that Sub-Saharan Africa stands at a defining moment for health resilience.

‘Health resilience begins with systems that anticipate shocks, whether pandemics, drug resistance, or financial strain, and protect the most vulnerable. It demands stronger domestic financing, data-driven governance, and innovation in community- and at-home care’, Omei Bongos, public health lead at Gatefield said.

‘The Gatefield Health Summit 2025 will convene policymakers, researchers, and private sector leaders to redefine resilience across Africa. From food and funding to women’s health and medicines, the agenda recognizes the shared truth that health systems must be built to endure,’ Shirley Ewang, advocacy lead at Gatefield said.

Confirmed speakers include leaders from The World Bank, International Diabetes Federation, Pathfinder International, Policy Innovation Center, Society for Family Health, and the South African Medical Research Council.

The African Development Bank (AfDB), in collaboration with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), has launched a new report calling for innovative and coordinated investments to rebuild northern Nigeria’s food systems and boost agricultural productivity.

Titled ‘Investing in Innovative Food Systems Solutions in Challenging Contexts,’ the report was presented on the sidelines of the 31st Nigerian Economic Summit in Abuja.

It outlines actionable policies and investment strategies aimed at revitalising agriculture, restoring livelihoods, and fostering long-term resilience in conflict-affected regions.

Speaking during a high-level panel session, Abubakar Kyari, minister of Agriculture and Food Security, highlighted government plans to relocate 80 percent of national silos closer to small farming communities.

‘We are working to ensure that storage facilities serve the real producers, not just distant hubs,’ he said. Muhammadu Sanusi II, Emir of Kano, emphasised the importance of private sector participation and consistency in agricultural policy.

‘The best way to tackle poverty in the North is through long-term investment and fixing the value chains,’ he said.

Abdul Kamara, AfDB’s director general for Nigeria, who moderated the session, stressed that rebuilding the region’s agricultural value chains is crucial to achieving food sovereignty and economic stability. ‘By building resilient value chains, we can create sustainable jobs, empower women and youth, and lay the foundation for shared prosperity,’ he said.

The AfDB currently has nearly $900 million invested in Nigeria’s agriculture sector through initiatives like the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) and the National Agriculture Growth Scheme (NAGS). These programmes aim to enhance productivity, market access, and value addition across key crops including sorghum, millet, maize, wheat, cowpeas, soybeans, groundnuts, and tomatoes.

Steven Were Omamo, executive director of IFPRI, said the report offers a data-driven framework to guide policy and investment decisions in fragile contexts.

‘Grounding decisions in rigorous evidence ensures smarter resilience-building and lasting impact,’ he noted.

David Stevenson, WFP Country Director added that rebuilding northern Nigeria’s ‘breadbasket’ requires shifting from emergency aid to market-led, climate-smart, and partnership-driven solutions. ‘It demands bold investments rooted in peace and resilience,’ he said.

The partners urged government agencies, investors, and development organizations to use the report as a blueprint for channeling financing toward a food-secure and inclusive northern.

The federal government has formally presented Taoheed Elias (Judge), as Nigeria’s candidate for election to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), appealing for international support to re-establish West Africa’s representation on the bench of the world’s top judicial institution.

At an event held on Thursday in Abuja, Yusuf Tuggar, minister of foreign affairs, led senior government officials and members of the diplomatic corps in endorsing Elias’ candidacy ahead of the ICJ elections scheduled for November 12, 2025.

Tuggar, in his address, lamented that no West African judge has sat on the ICJ bench since 2011 and that Nigeria has been absent from the court for over 30 years.

‘This long absence is not a matter of pride but of perspective. It underscores the importance of equitable geographical representation and the need for voices from West Africa to again be heard within the world’s highest judicial body’, he said.

The minister described Dr. Elias as a jurist of exceptional distinction and integrity who embodies the ideals enshrined in Article 2 of the ICJ Statute.

‘Elias is not merely a national candidate but a candidate for the international community. He embodies the envisaged qualities, a person of high moral character possessing the qualifications for the highest judicial office and recognised competence in international law.

‘He is a Nigerian national, a distinguished scholar, a seasoned international civil servant, and a respected judge’, Tuggar stated.

Tuggar emphasised that Nigeria’s nomination of Elias goes beyond national interest, representing a collective effort to ensure Africa, particularly West Africa, maintains its rightful place in shaping global jurisprudence.

‘This candidacy is not about Nigeria alone. It is about ensuring that Africa, and West Africa in particular, retains its rightful presence in shaping the global rule of law’, he added.

In his remarks, Elias expressed deep appreciation for the government’s confidence in him and reaffirmed his commitment to the principles of international justice.

‘The ICJ is at the cornerstone of the entire architecture of the United Nations, being responsible for the peaceful resolution of disputes,’ he noted.

He outlined three core pillars underpinning his candidacy: academic expertise in international law, institutional understanding of the United Nations system, and extensive judicial experience.

‘The first element of my candidacy is my academic background and intellectual expertise in international law.

‘The second is my knowledge of the principal constituencies of the ICJ, the UN itself. The third element is my judicial experience.

‘I have spent more than 20 years in the United Nations system as a lawyer. These are things I’ve actually lived, in addition to teaching about them’, he explained.

Currently serving as a judge ad hoc on the ICJ, Elias highlighted his recent appointment by Equatorial Guinea, a country that chose him over its own national, as a testament to his global credibility.

‘In the International Court of Justice, when you have a case, one party has a judge of their country on the court.

‘The other country, which does not, can appoint anyone. Equatorial Guinea didn’t pick somebody from their own country; they picked me,’ he said.

Elias also paid tribute to Abdulqawi Yusuf (Judge) of Somalia, whose seat he is vying to fill, acknowledging the high standard of excellence set by his predecessor.

‘Given the nature of the challenges that I described, I think that a wider profile, perspective, and deeper appreciation in practice are things that I hope you believe will be of value to the court,’ he stated.

If elected, Elias would become the fourth Nigerian to serve on the ICJ, following in the footsteps of Charles Onyeama, Bola Ajibola, and his father, the late Taslim Olawale Elias, a former ICJ President and one of Africa’s foremost legal minds.

Elias is a member of the Institut de Droit International and has held several senior positions within international organisations, including Legal Adviser and Director at the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) in The Hague.

He currently serves as President of the Administrative Tribunal of the OPEC Fund for International Development, Chairman of the Islamic Development Bank Administrative Tribunal, and former President and member of the OPEC Appeals Committee.

Members of the Udo Udoma and Belo-Osagie (UUBO) have advocated stakeholder collaboration in implementing the Nigerian Data Protection NDP Act.

They spoke at a Data privacy breakfast held in Lagos recently.

Themed, ‘the GAID in practice: Navigating Nigeria’s New Privacy Directives,’ Managing Partner at UUBO Jumoke Lambo, in her welcome remarks, disclosed the event was organised to provide opportunity for regulators, policymakers, in-house counsel, data protection officers, and industry leaders exchange insights on the implementation of the Nigerian Data Protection (NDP) Act General Application and Implementation Directives (GAID).

Saying the NDP landscape continues to evolve, she added the regulator, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), continues to set the pace as one of the most active data protection authorities across the continent.

In his presentation, Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner/Chief Executive Officer Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) described the GAID as operational blueprint for NDP Act, 2023, issued by the Commission on March 20th 2025. With the aim of providing clarity and practical guidance on implementation of the NDP Act, 2023, he disclosed the Act takes effect from September 19th 2025, replacing the NDPR 2019 as the nation’s principal regulatory guide.

Specifically, Olatunji spoke on Principles of Data Protection; NDP Act Compliance Audit Returns; Data Protection Officer’s Assessment; Data Privacy Impact Assessment; Guidance on Cross-Border Data Transfer; Data Subject Vulnerability Indexes; legitimate Interest Impact Assessment Template; Data Subject’s Standard Notice to Address Grievances and NDP Act Compliance Audit Returns Filing Fee.

Speaking further, he added complying with the NDP Act GAID is not just a regulatory requirement, but a strategic enabler for trust, innovation, and sustainable growth.

Concerning Data Protection Officers (DPO), he said their contact must be publicly available and communicated to the Commission; annual credential assessment of DPOs will be conducted to ensure they maintain requisite level of professionalism to carry out their responsibilities; the DPO is required to submit a semi-annual report to management on the data protection status within the organization; the DPO should have unrestricted access to personal data and processing activities to effectively fulfil their role; the DPO must operate independently, free from undue influence to ensure objectivity; the DPO must maintain confidentiality regarding their work.’

In conclusion, he noted, ‘the successful implementation of the NDP Act depends on cooperation among all stakeholders (data subjects, government, businesses, Civil Society Organisations and the media). Through this collective effort, we can transform compliance into opportunity, strengthening governance, improving services, and enhance Nigeria’s global competitiveness.’

President Bola Tinubu on Thursday appointed Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as the new chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), ushering in a new era for Nigeria’s electoral body amid rising calls for reforms.

Amupitan, 58, hails from Ayetoro Gbede in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State. A professor of law at the University of Jos and an alumnus of the same institution, he specialises in Company Law, Law of Evidence, Corporate Governance, and Privatisation Law. He became a Senior Advocate of Nigeria in 2014.

His appointment comes at a critical period of Nigeria’s democracy, following widespread criticism of the 2023 general elections. The polls were marred by controversies over result transmission failures, logistical delays, and allegations of partisanship. Recent off-cycle gubernatorial elections have also faced similar challenges.

Mahood Yakubu, former chairman, introduced several reforms during his 10-year tenure in office, including Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV), but the success of these devices appears to be derailed by politicians who have mastered how to manipulate the devices, throwing recent elections into chaos and disputes.

A recent example was the Edo State governorship election, where disputes arose over the collation of results at the state headquarters, rather than the designated local government collation centres.

With the 2027 general election approaching, public confidence in the commission remains low. Political party defections, early campaigns, and heightened tensions have further put INEC under pressure to show neutrality and independence.

Public trust in elections

Stakeholders say the immediate task before Amupitan is to rebuild public trust and restore confidence in the electoral system.

‘The former chairman started well, especially with the technological innovations but politicians later defeated him to his game. Our electoral system need total overhaul,’ Temitope Musowo, public policy expert and lecturer, told BusinessDay.

‘Amupitan must assess the performance of technology in the conduct of elections in Nigeria and see where there are lapses to improve the system.

‘It is either he is ready to work or he should decline the offer. A lot of people don’t want free and fair election in Nigeria because they are not popular,’ he noted.

According to him, the new chairman must immediately show Nigerians that he is not a political appointee but a servant of the constitution and must work for Nigerians.

Similarly, Amina OJei, political analyst at the Centre of Electoral Reforms, called for immediate reforms in INEC, saying that they must be swift, inclusive, and transparent.

‘INEC must lead the charge in collaborating with the National Assembly and the civil society to close legal loopholes that enable malpractices,’ Ojei said.

Experts also expect Amupitan to drive amendments of the Electoral Act, particularly in areas dealing with result collation and electronic transmission.

‘Strengthening electronic transmission from polling units will promote transparency and accountability,’ said Kunle Okunade, another political analyst. ‘That’s how to rebuild public trust in our electoral process.’

Source of funding for INEC should change

Many stakeholders say that any move to give INEC autonomy must start with its source of funding. There are reports that the commission activities have been affected by limited funding recently. Such was seen in the 2023 poll where not all the money budgeted for the general election was released by the executive.

Speaking some days ago at a webinar on electoral reform, Obiageli Ezekwesili, former education minister, had called for urgent financial and operational autonomy for INEC to function effectively, saying that the electoral body should be funded directly from the consolidated fund.

Challenge of restoring faith in BVAS and IReV

With technology now central to Nigeria’s electoral process, the new chairman faces the challenge of restoring faith in BVAS and IReV, both of which experienced significant malfunctions during previous elections.

Pundits say digital integrity, cybersecurity, and operational reliability will be critical in the 2027 general election.

Ezekwesili had demanded the strengthening of the results collation mechanism, change in the procedure for the appointment of INEC commissioners, strong penalty against electoral offenders, among other reforms, ahead of 2027.

She had called upon the National Judiciary Commission to discipline judges who undermine the electoral system by giving frivolous rulings and colluding with politicians.

‘Case exceeding the timeline should not be allowed. We need specialised courts for election cases in Nigeria urgently and judges should be randomly picked for these cases to check manipulation,’ Ezekwesili said.

Youth disillusionment, poor voter turnout

The 2023 elections witnessed a surge in youth voter registration, driven mainly by political movements on social media.

However, post-election surveys indicated a wave of disillusionment among young Nigerians, many of whom felt their votes did not count.

Voter turnout has been in steady decline in Nigeria over the last decade, and there are fears it would will be worse in 2027.

Political analysts say Amupitan must rise to restore Nigerian youths’ confidence in the electoral system, which will be key to increasing voter turnout in 2027.

‘To gain youth confidence, the election umpire at this moment needs to work on the human and material logistics during the election day,’ Okunade noted.