Category: Nigerian Tribune

Concerned tanker drivers from different parts of the country have raised the alarm over public statements attributed to a faceless group operating under the platform of the PTD Elders Forum.

They accused the group, which they noted is not recognised by the PTD bylaws or the NUPENG Constitution of spreading falsehood to the public.

Recall that Comrades Williams Akporeha and Afolabi Olawale, President and General Secretary of NUPENG respectively, had in a statement on Sunday alerted the public and security agencies that the so-called PTD Elders Forum are infiltrators with a sinister motive to cause disaffection within the ranks of the genuine leadership of the Tanker Drivers Branch of NUPENG.

The NUPENG leaders also disclosed that Comrade Augustine Egbon is the duly elected National Chairman of the PTD-NUPENG, chosen by members at its Branch Delegates Conference held in Lagos on July 3, 2024.

Addressing journalists at a press briefing on Friday, tanker drivers from Kaduna, Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Warri Zones disowned the PTD Elders, insisting that they are impostors masquerading as tanker drivers.

One of the drivers from the Kaduna Zone, Comrade Bashir Izalan, said he was surprised that a faceless group was laying claim to PTD-NUPENG membership.

He said:

‘We don’t have anything like PTD Elders in the hierarchy of PTD-NUPENG. We don’t know them.

The only recognised national chairman we know is led by Comrade Egbon.

His leadership is transparent, he gives us a sense of belonging because we can go anywhere in the country and feel at home. If we fall sick, we have insurance and hospitals where we would be treated.

If we have any problem either with our company or vehicles, the union is always ready and willing to solve the problem because drivers can approach any unit close to them at any point in time, explain themselves, and the union will stand up and rescue them. Even if you load in Lagos and go to Kano or Kaura Namoda, there is somebody to take care of your problems there.

So, the union is always handy and ready to come to our aid and solve our problems even before owners of the trucks know about them.’

Speaking on behalf of tanker drivers in the Lagos Zone, Comrade Itanola Abiodun told reporters that the impostors do not belong to the union and appealed to security agencies to fish them out for prosecution.

According to him:

‘Everybody who belongs to a union has a unit and zone where that unit is located. Then, they have a PTD branch. Those units where they claimed they come from do not exist. We in those zones do not know them.

Their names are not known to us at all. They should mention the units they belong to for discerning minds to vouch for their authenticity.

They cannot even say the units or zones they belong to. They are not speaking for us. They are impostors, hired to wreak havoc in our union.

We all have a sense of belonging in PTD. We want to be part of PTD-NUPENG because the leadership of our umbrella body, NUPENG, gives us a sense of belonging and is always there for us when we have challenges with our employers.’

Also contributing, Comrade Chukwudi Okafor from the Port Harcourt Zone dismissed the claim that the leadership of PTD-NUPENG feeds fat on check-off dues and loading fees paid by tanker drivers.

Dismissing the allegation as unfounded and unfair, he told journalists that the money generated from check-off dues and payments for loading at depots is used to address the welfare of tanker drivers, particularly for health insurance and other pressing needs. He noted that such payments are made by truck owners (NARTO), not the drivers.

He said:

‘Why are they complaining about money? Are they the ones paying? They know the benefits of our paying the money and we are very comfortable with them.

It is from that money that they take care of everything we need outside our comfort zones, including hospital bills and other unforeseen issues.

We have implicit confidence and trust in what they are doing with our money, and as beneficiaries, we have no reason whatsoever to suspect or accuse them of wrongdoing. Even if we have a problem or run short of allowances, we approach PTD and they come to our rescue without delay.

We, drivers from different zones in the country, know the benefits of NUPENG and we are enjoying them.

We are appealing to the government to continue giving PTD-NUPENG all the necessary support to thrive because they are helping us to have that sense of belonging, and we are proud of them.’

Comrade Dennis Akore from the Warri Zone, however, gave a different perspective on the recent developments in the union.

He accused certain former members of the PTD Branch who lost out in the last delegate conference election held in Lagos of plotting to take over the leadership through the back door.

He said:

‘The impostors lost out in the election conducted in 2024. When they were in the union, they abandoned us to our fate. Majority of us tanker drivers benefitted nothing.

All they were after was what they would reap from the union, disregarding the best interests of truck drivers who do the main job. That was why we voted them out. They are now lamenting and sponsoring impostors to discredit PTD-NUPENG.

At a time, they connived and went to ambush our national officers in Abuja. They nearly lynched our leaders, and they are still facing criminal charges over that act till today. Security agencies should urgently round them up so that all their atrocities will be exposed.’

At the historic Mapo Hall in the heart of Ibadan, on Friday, September 26, 2025, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja received the staff and instruments of office as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. The event was witnessed by an impressive crowd comprising President Bola Tinubu, the high, the mighty Nigerians and non-Nigerians. It was an event that re-emphasised the uniqueness of the Ibadan monarchy and the global citizenship of Oba Rashidi Ladoja. Soji Ajibola, Busola Oworu, and Olawale Olaniyan capture the scenes as they unfold.

Events leading to the eventual coronation of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja as the Arusa 1, the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, had all the trappings of greatness and exclusivity woven around them. There was a week-long activity announced by the Chief Bayo Oyero-led planning committee, put together by the Oyo State government. But long before the activities were announced by the committee, the picture that you see on the streets, within the interior and exteriors of Ibadan was that of a city in celebratory mood. The entire Ibadan had been formed into a committee, putting in place all of the this and that that made the coronation a special spectacle to behold. From within Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, and even to those in the diaspora, Ibadan has a monarch, in Ladoja, whose fame transcends this shore.

Though the city had to mourn the passing of the 43rd Olubadan Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, the Ige Olakulehin 1, who passed on July 7, 2025, the mourning period soon turned to celebration, in fulfillment of the agelong moniker of the Ibadan people as Omo Agbotikuyo. The 21 days of mourning would also respect the wishes and tradition of the Ibadan people, as it witnessed the movement of the king’s traditional drummers from the Olakulehin compound to Ladoja’s Arusa family house, in Isale Osi, in the interior of today’s Ibadan. Incidentally, the demise of Oba Olakulehin came at a time Oba Ladoja was outside Ibadan town. He was in Lagos when the announcement was made by the state government. So, Oba Ladoja had to hold forth in Lagos till the 21 days passed. The city wore more glowing look as the Oba returned to his land, and from that period, it was celebration and preparation for more celebrations. It all came to a head on September 26, the day chosen by the state government for the official coronation of the 44th Olubadan. It was a day after his 81st birthday, a confirmation of what the Yoruba would describe as celebration falling upon celebration.

The coronation process

The one-week celebration, which climaxed with the presentation of the ancient crown to Oba Ladoja, a former Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, former governor of Oyo State, now Ibadan monarch, was not limited to the Mapo Hall. There were activities in different corners of the town, even as the different families with historic links to the throne and Ibadanland took their turns to pay traditional homage to the Olubadan in his Bodija home. The first coronation lecture, with the topic: ‘Ibadan history: Issues in Tradition and Modernity,’ was delivered by Prof Toyin Falola, a renowned professor of African Studies, who currently chairs the Jacob and Sanger Mossiker Chair in Humanities at the University of Texas, Austin, United States. He told the gathering that the personality of Oba Ladoja, who is a successful businessman and former politician, would bring development to Ibadan by improving its economic condition. Chairman of the coronation committee, Chief Bayo Oyero, also said that the lecture wasn’t a mere academic exercise, but a critical dialogue and a moment of introspection which would serve as a source of guidance for the new Olubadan.

There were events in the different corners of the city as the Mogajis (family heads) and Baales held Owambe functions for their family members. Ibadan indigenes and their friends travelled from far and near to witness the unprecedented events because of the pedigree of Oba Ladoja, who had been elected Senator and governor of the state. Attendance at the events was not limited to Ibadan indigenes alone, as Nigerians of all walks of life arrived in Ibadan from Kano, Abuja, and Lagos, and outside the country to take part in the historical coronation.

There were musical performances in the various parts of the city. Fuji musician, Taye Currency held sway at Mapo Hall on the coronation day, while other Fuji artists, Tiri Leather, Rashidi Ayinde popularly known as Merenge, Abass Akande Obesere all took their audiences to the peak of enjoyment at different locations where they performed. Aside from the musical performances, D-Day came with all the thrills, the frills, anxiety, and relaxation. There was concern about crowd control as news filtered into town that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a long-standing friend of Oba Ladoja, would witness the ceremony. The Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA) issued traffic advisories to residents well ahead of the coronation date. It spelled out roads that would be closed before the event and movement schedules towards the Mapo Hall. Security operatives had full control of the presidential routes from late on Thursday as everything was set for the coronation ceremony.

The operatives, including officers and men of the Nigerian Army, Department of State Services (DSS), the Police, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Amotekun Corps, the local vigilante, and hunters, took strategic positions in line with the design of their duties. Some men of the Army had a difficult time preventing the influx of street boys from Bere and Idi-Arere from entering the venue. Nevertheless, the entire space was effectively manned as those with valid tags to enter the venue were subjected to a thorough security screening. Aside from the traffic advisory issued by the traffic management authority, several neighbourhood markets were closed, while traffic restrictions affected Oja’ba, Orita-merin, Ayeye, Bode, and others. This allowed the traders, artisans, and other categories of people to partake in the programme.

The Traditional Rites

Before D-Day, Oba Ladoja had entered confinement, traditionally set for Yoruba rulers to receive some lessons about the throne and partake in some rites. The coronation proper started with the arrival of Oba Ladoja at the Ile Labosinde (the Afobaje compound) in Oja’ba, Ibadan. The compound is just a stone’s throw from the historic Mapo Hall, where the open event usually takes place. At Ile Labosinde, Oba Ladoja partook of the traditional rites led by the Oluwo Afobaje Labosinde. The monarch had arrived at the venue in a white Rolls-Royce and was accompanied by members of the Olubadan-in-Council, his immediate and extended family, and other well-wishers. He acknowledged cheers from the crowd and proceeded to the business of the day. Kabiyesi Ladoja later proceeded to Osemeji shrine, where the worshippers of Ifa Divinity, led by Abore of Ibadanland, were awaiting his arrival. The Abore, clad in a white regalia, marched on traditional mats in line with the tradition, as he is forbidden to march on the ground barefoot on his way to the shrine that is directly opposite Labosinde Afobaje’s compound.

The monarch was asked by the Oluwo to open a traditional calabash, which was discovered to be filled with honey, and the crowd yelled in admiration. He was also asked to prostrate to the people for the last time, and he did. Yoruba Obas are not allowed to prostrate for anybody after receiving the crown. The Oluwo of Ibadanland then decorated the new monarch with Akoko leaves and the ancient traditional beaded crown, otherwise known as Ade Isenbaye.

Shouts of K-a-b-i-y-e-s-i ooo rented the air as the ancient crown landed on Oba Ladoja’s head. Those who have witnessed coronations in the past said that the moment had been critical for monarchs in the past and that many of Ladoja’s predecessors had to take moments to catch their breath immediately after the ancient crown lands on their head for the first time. It was said that many took time to regain composure before they could continue with rituals. Oba Ladoja was lucky. He remained his true self and was able to continue the other activities without a break. The traditional drummers complemented every second with beats that speak not only to the origin of the city of warriors, but to the genealogy of Ladoja as a son of the Arusa family in the ancient city.

Mapo Hall, the venue of the event, was filled to the brim as the people had started arriving at the venue as early as 6 am to await the arrival of the new monarch, Governor Seyi Makinde, and President Tinubu. Many who discussed in groups described Ladoja as the true ‘Koseleri Kabiyesi’ (never seen before king), as a result of the political positions he earlier held, having been elected the Senator representing Oyo South and governor of the state.

Arrival at Mapo Hall

After the necessary traditional rites had been carried out on Kabiyesi, he proceeded to Mapo Hall, where the guests had been awaiting his arrival for the official presentation of the staff and Instruments of office by the Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde. Ladoja received a loud ovation as he arrived at Mapo Hall. And he proceeded to his seat. As the crowd awaited Governor Makinde and President Tinubu, musical interludes were provided by Taiye Currency, the Fuji Act. At exactly 2.45 pm, the long convoy that conveyed the president, the governor, and other government functionaries arrived at the venue to cheers and admiration of the gathering.

Governor Makinde speaks

‘The excitement everywhere in this city today shows that we must uphold our tradition. I want to say that all challenges associated with Ibadan traditional institutions are now over and behind us,’ he said, apparently referring to the rancour that preceded the inauguration of the 42nd and 43rd Olubadan. He added: ‘What this means is that the tradition, the succession, and process are now sacrosanct. We know everything about that succession.’

The governor spoke further: ‘Today, history was literally made. The president landed at the Ibadan Airport with the first wide-bodied aircraft ever to land at the Ibadan Airport. This shows that the era of Oba Ladoja has begun to witness positive developments. I want to congratulate Kabiyesi and to say that his reign shall be peaceful, bring progress and development to Ibadanland.’ The governor, who claimed that he had assumed a new status of Omooba, declared that history had already been made with the enthronement of Oba Ladoja as the first wide-bodied aircraft landed at the upgraded Samuel Ladoke Akintola airport, Ibadan, for the first time.

Oba Ladoja’s acceptance speech

In his acceptance speech, Oba Ladoja said he was grateful to God for keeping him alive to get to the top of the chieftaincy ladder. He also recognised the roles played by the late Chief MKO Abiola, whom he said was present during his inauguration as Mogaji, and the late Alhaji Lamidi Adedibu, whom he said was instrumental to his climbing the ladder as Jagun Olubadan. He equally told President Tinubu that the people of Ibadan had asked him to demand the creation of Ibadan State, while he even thanked the president in anticipation of the actualisation.

He told the gathering: ‘This staff of office that the governor, our son in whom we are well-pleased, has presented to me is a source of joy to all Ibadan sons and daughters. One year ago, some people thought Ibadan would scatter, but Ibadan has a way of settling its matters, and we are here today in unity and oneness.

‘I appreciate the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Oyo State Government, and the Coronation Committee for this event. I also appreciate the Olubadan-in-Council; they all supported me. They are the kingmakers, and if they had not agreed to my nomination, I could not be here today. I am assuring the people of Ibadan that since God spared me till today, I will serve them, and I will do it with all my powers. There is nothing else I am looking for in life. Yesterday, I clocked 81. Some people do not have this privilege. So, I recognise that the fact that God spared me till date, what remains is to serve every resident of Ibadan, serve Oyo State, serve Yorubaland, serve Nigeria and Africa, to the best of my ability.’

President Tinubu, who also extolled Oba Ladoja as a successful businessman and a lucky monarch, said that he was happy to see him climb the ladder to the topmost, adding that the monarch was a pro-democracy fighter who stood firm during the fight against military autocracy. Tinubu said that it was a great honour for him to witness Ladoja’s coronation as Oba while he served as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The president, who described Oba Ladoja as a resilient and reliable person, took time to reminisce on their days in the aborted Third Republic Senate, as well as recall the monarch’s battles during his impeachment as governor of Oyo State in 2006, and his comeback story. He prayed that God should grant the new Olubadan long life and success, so that he would be celebrated as one of the rare gems to ascend the throne.

THE National Association of Proprietors of Arabic and Islamic Schools (NAPAIS) has congratulated President Bola Tinubu and all Nigerians on the occasion of the nation’s 65th independence anniversary, expressing optimism that Nigeria is on the path to the greatness envisioned by its founding fathers.

In a statement signed by the NAPAIS president, Sheikh Muhammad-Jamiu Abdulgafar, and Secretary, Sheikh Muftau Salaudeen, the association urged citizens to embrace the country’s diversity as a source of strength for unity and progress.

Addressing the recent unrest in the oil and gas sector, NAPAIS appealed to the President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, and the leadership of the Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) and other relevant stakeholder, to engage in constructive dialogue in resolving ongoing disputes involving tanker drivers.

According to the association, the appeal became necessary in light of the disruptions caused by the standoff between the Dangote Refinery and NUPENG, which reportedly led to the shutdown of refineries and the blockade of fuel tankers, resulting in temporary hardship for ordinary Nigerians.

‘Petrol remains a lifeline for Nigerians, for mobility, daily activities and businesses,’ said Sheikh Abdulgafar, who called on all parties involved to sheathe their swords in the interest of lasting peace and industrial harmony.

NAPAIS commended the efforts of the Federal Government, particularly the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, and the House of Representatives Committee on Downstream Petroleum, chaired by Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, for their timely intervention in averting further fuel supply disruptions.

On matters of traditional leadership, Sheikh Abdulgafar commented on the ongoing supremacy dispute between two prominent Yoruba monarchs, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade.

He urged both royal fathers to set aside rivalry and prioritise the development of their respective domains, especially now that the President of the Federal Republic is from the South West.

‘My advice to our revered monarchs is to compete in the area of development. Let them use their influence to attract projects and initiatives that will uplift their people and reduce poverty,’ he said.

In another development, the NAPAIS president condemned reports of female students being barred from attending schools for wearing the hijab, particularly in Ilorin, a predominantly Muslim city.

Sheikh Abdulgafar described such actions as an affront to Islam and a violation of the constitutional right to education.

‘Efforts are ongoing to engage the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to foster religious tolerance and mutual respect. Under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, education is a right for all Nigerian children. Any act that undermines this policy amounts to opposing government objectives,’ he stated.

On international affairs, the NAPAIS president praised countries such as Australia, Brazil, China, India, Canada and the United Kingdom for their recognition of the State of Palestine.

He called on the National Assembly to follow suit by supporting justice and global peace.

He urged Nigerian lawmakers to condemn the ongoing occupation and alleged annexation of Palestinian territories by the Israeli government, describing it as a path to ending genocide and promoting international justice.

The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Act enacted by the Federal Government in 2022 has repealed and replaced the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) Act of 2004. The repealed law had failed to achieve significant population coverage or integration of Nigeria’s fragmented health insurance system.

The NHIA Act of 2022 represents a major policy and legal shift toward making universal health coverage a legal and operational reality for all Nigerians. It mandates the enforcement of a Basic Minimum Package of Care for all citizens, while also creating the Vulnerable Group Fund to subsidize care for the poor, elderly, children under five, and the physically or mentally challenged. States are required to operate a health insurance scheme or use third-party administrators until such schemes are established.

In accordance with the NHIA, on September 3, 2025, President Bola Tinubu directed all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to enrol their employees in the National Health Insurance Authority scheme. To ensure compliance across all MDAs the directive mandates all entities participating in public procurement to present a valid NHIA-issued Health Insurance Certificate. The directive includes a mandate for the Secretary to the Government of the Federation to enforce enrolment and monitor compliance, potentially expanding coverage significantly across MDAs.

The NHIA Act has also mandated the governments of the 36 States and the Federal Capital Territory to provide basic minimum package of care to all residents of Nigeria. In furtherance to this, the NHIA is required to implement the Basic Health Care Provision Fund under the National Health Act 2014 and any guidelines developed in that regard.

However, the State health schemes will be responsible for the management of the fund and monitoring its implementation. Where a state has not established a health scheme, it may use the services of a Third Party Administrator pending the establishment of its health scheme.

No doubt, the primary aim of the NHIA Act is to ensure that every Nigerian and legal resident has access to affordable, quality, and comprehensive health care services through mandatory health insurance. Hence, the NHIA has established a regulatory and institutional framework for the promotion, administration, supervision, and regulation of all health insurance schemes in Nigeria-whether public or private.

According to the Health Care Providers Association of Nigeria, over 90 per cent of Nigerians are still not covered by any form of health insurance. The association warned that with the figure of uninsured Nigerians, the country is far from achieving universal health coverage. The unfortunate development is caused by poverty as it is officially acknowledged that millions of citizens have become dimensionally poor.

Section 25 of the Act provides that the health insurance for vulnerable people shall be fully funded by the government, while section 31 thereof requires employees to contribute to their health on a contributory basis. The law, however, has defined ‘vulnerable group’ to include children under five, pregnant women, the aged, physically, and mentally challenged, and the indigent as may be defined from time to time. Since the majority of citizens have become indigent and vulnerable, the federal government, state local governments, and local governments should provide adequate funding for the health insurance of all citizens.

This demand is in line with section 17(3) (d) of the Nigerian Constitution has imposed a duty on the governments to ensure that ‘ there are adequate medical and health facilities for all persons’ and article 16 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights (Ratification and Enforcement) Act provides that ‘every individual is entitled to the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health.’

Lagos State Safety Commission (LSC) is set to host the Lagos State Occupational Safety and Health (LASOSH) Conference 2025, saying that the planned conference, themed: ‘Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) as a Catalyst for Nation Building,’ would move beyond conversations to concrete policy actions, uniting government, industry, labour, academia, civil society, and development partners in co-creating a sustainable safety framework.

The Agency made this known in a release, a copy of which was made available to newsmen, saying that the landmark event, which was scheduled to hold on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at the Lagos Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, was coming at ‘a defining moment in Lagos State’s development journey.’

The State Safety Commission said this became so as Lagos faces complex safety challenges ranging from managing large events and concerts, building collapses, and transport accidents to industrial hazards, emergency preparedness, and risks in informal sectors, amidst rapid urbanization, industrial expansion, and rising population density.

According to the statement, the summit will position Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) as a policy and developmental imperative, central to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s vision of making Lagos Africa’s Model Megacity and a Global Economic Hub that is Safe, Secure, Functional, and Productive, describing the planned gathering as a Defining Moment for Policy, Safety, and Development.

‘This year’s summit will move beyond conversations to concrete policy actions, uniting government, industry, labour, academia, civil society, and development partners in co-creating a sustainable safety framework.

‘Key policy directions to be advanced include: Mainstreaming OSH into Nigeria’s national and state development plans, Institutionalizing Safety Impact Assessments for all major development projects, Enforcing occupier’s liability insurance across commercial buildings to protect the public, Strengthening legislative backing for OSH standards in both public and private sectors, Integrating safety in urban planning, transport reforms, and tourism regulation, Leveraging technology and innovation to strengthen data-driven safety management systems.

‘By embedding safety into economic and social planning, Lagos aims to boost productivity, safeguard lives, attract sustainable investment, and reinforce public trust,’ the statement said.

Speaking further, the statement stated that the highlight of the event will include Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu holding a High-Level Global Dialogue, titled:

‘Advancing Sector-Specific Safety Standards across Lagos’s Diverse Economy,’ with representatives from Canada, Germany, Sweden, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United States, sharing lessons from international best practices.

It said there would also be a Discourse Session, titled: ‘The Future of Work: Balancing Safety, Innovation, and Technology,’ with contributions from Google, Ernst and Young, Lafarge, and BUA Group, adding that there would be a Roadmap Presentation by the Lagos State Safety Commission team.

‘Occupational Safety and Health is not just about compliance; it is about protecting lives, preserving dignity, and driving Lagos’s growth story. At LASOSH 2025, we are going beyond the rhetoric and building a Lagos where safety is a culture, innovation drives resilience, and every life is valued,’ LSC Director General,’ Mr. Lanre Mojola said.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has disclosed what he found out about the Boko Haram insurgents, and why the problem continues to persist years after the terrorist group’s major attack in the country.

The former President said this on Friday while giving remarks as the Chairman at the launch of ‘Scars: Nigeria’s Journey and the Boko Haram Conundrum’, a book by former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Lucky Irabor (rtd.) in Abuja.

According to Obasanjo, the insurgent group came to be not because they were interested in political power or serious religious issues, but rather a better life.

‘I found, yes, there was Boko Haram. I found they were not really aiming for anything political or anything seriously religious. But in short, they were looking for a better life. And any other thing attached to that is a better life for them,’ he said.

Continuing, the former Nigerian head of state and two-term civilian president questioned steps taken by Nigeria as a nation in addressing the challenges, adding that if the country had taken the right steps, Boko Haram would not have been a part of its daily life.

‘Have we understood that? If we have, have we taken the steps that we should take? If we have, why are we, after fifteen years, Boko Haram is not virtually becoming part of our life? Should we accept that? If we should not accept, what should we do? How much do we know?’ He asked.

Obasanjo further questioned the country’s proactiveness, across the divides, in dealing with the insurgency problem, which he said is becoming a monster within the country.

‘I think we have to ask ourselves the necessary questions to be able to deal with this thing that is now becoming a monster within our country,’ he added.

The event had in attendance other prominent Nigerians, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Minister of Defense, Abubakar Bagudu; Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar; Bishop Hassan Kukah, among others.

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has flagged off the construction of the Transit Way (N2), linking Wuse Zone 3 to the Central Area, with assurances that under his watch, no sector of the FCT Administration will be left out in the development drive of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Speaking during the flag-off ceremony on Friday, the Minister emphasised that road infrastructure remains the backbone of any modern city, attracting investments and accelerating growth.

‘There’s no development in any city without a good network of roads. When all the cities are linked with good roads, then you talk about development. Road infrastructure attracts investment,’ Wike said.

Wike disclosed that Abuja has already caught the attention of international investors, citing a Dubai-based company that has committed to replicating the Dubai City Walk project in the FCT.

According to him, the N2 corridor, which will be supported by two strategic bridges, evolved from a citizen-led initiative around the TY Danjuma Foundation.

The Minister commended the efforts, adding that the FCTA took over and expanded the scope to connect the Central Area with the Wuse District.

While assuring strict supervision of the contractors, Wike announced fresh plans to rehabilitate not less than 40 additional schools across the FCT, complementing 70 ongoing school projects, out of which about 45 have already been completed.

He also hinted that attention will soon shift to healthcare facilities, stressing the urgency of timely project delivery.

‘Time waits for nobody. If you don’t know how to meet up, go and ask those who know how to beat up with the speed I work with,’ Wike warned, urging top officials to keep their phones on 24 hours for effective coordination.

The Minister noted that flag-off and commissioning activities will run until late October, after which more projects vital to the economy and the city’s landscape will be unveiled from November.

Despite opposition and criticisms, Wike assured that ‘All those who hate us are still using the roads, water, and streetlights we provide. We don’t know the meaning of blackmail in our dictionary; the only thing we know is to work, work, and work to the satisfaction of our people,’ Wike said.

Also speaking, the Minister of State for the FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, described the project as a milestone in strengthening connectivity, easing traffic congestion, and promoting seamless movement within Abuja.

She noted that the N2 Transit Way is another demonstration of the Renewed Hope Agenda translating into visible dividends for residents.

Mahmoud further applauded the National Assembly for their consistent support through collaboration and legislative backing.

‘Your role in ensuring that the FCT receives the needed budgetary attention and oversight is highly commendable, and today, we are witnessing the fruits of such partnership,’ she stated.

The N2 road project is one of the major infrastructure efforts lined up for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s third-year anniversary, with the FCTA positioning Abuja as a model modern city through roads, schools, health facilities, and investor-friendly initiatives.

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, on Friday declared that Nigeria’s marine and blue economy sector is being strategically repositioned to serve as the country’s major revenue earner, replacing crude oil as the dominant source of national income.

Speaking at the Institute of Maritime Studies, University of Lagos (UNILAG), during the official visit of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Secretary-General, Arsenio Domínguez, Oyetola highlighted the vast opportunities inherent in the maritime sector. He said the Federal Government is committed to unlocking these opportunities through investments in infrastructure, manpower development, and international partnerships.

‘Nigeria’s future lies beyond oil. The marine and blue economy is a goldmine that can drive sustainable economic growth, create millions of jobs, and position our nation as a global maritime hub. We are determined to harness its full potential to become the primary driver of our economy,’ the minister said.

Oyetola, an alumnus of UNILAG, urged Nigerian youths to take advantage of the numerous career and investment prospects within the sector. According to him, the government’s vision for the blue economy requires a new generation of skilled professionals who will drive innovation and competitiveness.

‘There are abundant opportunities for our young people in shipping, logistics, fisheries, shipbuilding, marine research, and offshore energy. I encourage you to be bold, innovative, and diligent. The future of this sector, and indeed the future of Nigeria’s economy, rests on your shoulders,’ he added.

He commended UNILAG and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) for their collaboration in maritime manpower development, particularly the establishment of a modern facility for the Institute of Maritime Studies.

The minister reaffirmed that the Federal Government’s marine and blue economy agenda is anchored on sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity, stressing that youth engagement and capacity building are central to achieving the long-term vision.

IF anyone still doubts where the audacity of the criminals who prowl the Nigerian landscape comes from, they need not look further than the official failure to make them pay for the crimes. Apparently, armed robbers, kidnappers and terrorists of all hues are having a swell time at the expense of defenseless, hapless Nigerians, scoffing at the authority of the Nigerian State and daring the powers that be to do their worst. To be sure, arrests take place, and a few criminals end up behind bars, but the majority of the criminals have apparently seen no reason to back-track from their evil trade. They are laying a siege to communities, farmlands, roads and, indeed, virtually any space available, giving law-abiding citizens an endless nightmare. Indeed, they seem to be intent on proving the point that no citizen is beyond their reach, and that anyone who manages to escape from them at any point in time has only just postponed the evil day. This is the thought that comes to mind as you ponder the case of the kidnappers who recently shot a victim in Delta State for, of all reasons, having an ‘insufficient’ account balance!

According to reports, operatives of the Delta State Police Command arrested the three suspected kidnappers after they had collected N2 million ransom from their victim and still shot him. The suspects identified as Chukwuebuka Nka (25), Uche Okechukwu, and Somto Chukwuma, allegedly shot the victim in the leg after discovering that he did not have ‘enough money’ in his account. The command’s spokesperson, Bright Edafe, said that the suspects were arrested following a distress call that indicated that a young man had been kidnapped from his residence in Ogwashi-Uku. According to the police spokesman, the operatives tracked the suspects to a bush in Ogwashi-Uku, where the victim was rescued with a gunshot wound. Investigations led to the arrest of Chukwuebuka Nka and Uche Okechukwu in Anambra State, where the victim’s white Toyota Venza was also recovered. Thereafter, based on the suspects’ confessions, operatives raided the outlaws’ hideout in Agidiase village, Ogwashi-uku, and arrested the third suspect. The suspects then led the police to their hideout, where their operational vehicle and a network jammer circuit device were also recovered.

If anything, this story shows the depth of the depravity of the criminal mind. Why shoot someone from whom you had already seized N2m and an SUV to boot? Which money did the criminals who complained of the victim’s financial limitation keep in his account? There is in fact a distinct possibility that the money in question does not even belong to the victim. Artisans frequently receive money meant to purchase materials needed to complete clients’ jobs in their accounts and in any case, even if the money in this case actually belonged to the victim, it is certainly clear that he did not intend it to be seized by criminals, as they turned out to do in this case. In a country where the minimum wage is N70,000, it says a lot that kidnappers who found N2 million in a victim’s account could still complain that the money was insufficient, and then proceed to shoot the victim, apparently with intent to finish him off. To these criminals, the victim, never mind the fact that he rode a Toyota SUV, had the audacity to be poor, and must pay for his poverty. No country that means to make meaningful progress allows criminals to subject law-abiding citizens to such harrowing experiences. Government exists, and collects tax, for the primary purpose of ensuring that citizens are safe and secure.

Of course, this Delta kidnapping case, like the many others that innocent Nigerians confront on a daily basis, boils down to governmental failure. Over the years, and particularly in recent years, the Nigerian government has failed to protect citizens. Politicians have put the people’s lives in peril while living atrociously luxurious lives with their money, and they are apparently set in their ways because, like in the case of the criminals who lay the land waste, there are hardly any consequences for their actions in office. In Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Somtochukwu Maduagwu, a prominent journalist, recently lost her life while trying to escape from the robbers who invaded her residence. So many citizens have lost their lives in such harrowing circumstances that highlight the dysfunctionality of the Nigerian state.

The Delta kidnapping victim is fortunate to be alive, but many citizens have lost their lives in such circumstances, and their voices will never be heard again, except symbolically. The government is duty-bound to ensure that the criminals who subject law-abiding citizens to agony are fished out and punished to the fullest extent allowed by law. Leaving law-abiding citizens at the mercy of criminals makes utter mockery of the law. It sends the dangerous signal that crime actually does pay, and that those who abide by the law are wasting their time. We urge the government to bear this point in mind and make crime unattractive even to criminals.

THE Muslim Congress (TMC), Oyo West Local Government chapter, has inaugurated its newly appointed patrons, conferring certificates of recognition on eight distinguished members, with Alhaji Saheed Ishola Sodem named as grand patron.

The investiture ceremony was held on Sunday at the Anwarul Islam Central Mosque, Gedu Scheme, Oyo.

The new patrons include Alhaji Saheed Ishola Sodem (grand patron), Alhaji AbdulGaniy Asimiyu Alawo, Alhaji Dhikrulah Olalekan Ojombo, Alhaji Faruq Doyin Asaye, Alhaji Kabir Oyeleye Omo Oye, Alhaji Tijani Ridwanullah, Alhaji AbdulQuodri Ayantunji Ayanyemi and Alhaji Abdul Azeez Abdul Rasaq.

In an address, the Wakil (Local Government Coordinator) of TMC Oyo West, Ustadh Abdur Razaq Olayiwola, commended the honorees for their commitment to the propagation and development of Islam in the community.

‘We appreciate your immense contributions to the growth of Islam within and outside Oyo town. Your numerous meritorious deeds have convinced us that you are truly deserving of this honour,’ he said.

Delivering the inaugural lecture, the Waali (State Coordinator) of The Muslim Congress, Oyo State, Alhaji Daud Oladosu, described TMC as one of the most credible and impactful Islamic organisations in Nigeria.

He stressed that the mission and vision of the organisation are firmly rooted in the teachings of the Qur’an and Sunnah, covering all aspects of human and societal development.

He urged the patrons to support TMC’s initiatives both morally and financially, stating: ‘Those who have partnered with The Muslim Congress can testify that we are not only trustworthy but also transparent in our accountability before God and man.’

Responding on behalf of the newly inaugurated patrons, Alhaji Saheed Ishola Sodem expressed appreciation, describing TMC as a trustworthy and value-driven organisation reflective of the broader Islamic Ummah.

‘TMC is the only organisation with a genuine Islamic framework for addressing societal challenges. I have known this organisation for a long time and I have never heard anything negative about it. Associating with TMC is not only safe but also a step toward earning Allah’s pleasure,’ he remarked.

The event also featured an awards presentation to past leaders of TMC, Oyo West chapter.

The honorees included Professor Miftaudeen Rauf, Alhaji Waliyullah Abdulkareem, Ustadh Abdurrasheed Abdurraheem Aseke and Ustadh Abdulhakeem Adeyanju, recognised for their notable service and leadership.