Category: Nigerian Tribune

The Igbo community in Cross River State has raised concerns over what it described as illegal taxation and harassment by non-state actors, calling on the state government to clamp down on those allegedly imposing multiple levies on businesses.

The concerns were raised on Monday during an interactive session between the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, members of the business community, women and student groups, and officials of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Calabar.

The community also complained about the poor condition of roads in parts of the state, saying it was affecting commercial activities.

Speaking at the meeting, the Second Vice President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Agu Prince, alleged that unidentified groups had continued to impose illegal taxes on traders, claiming their activities were threatening the survival of many businesses.

According to him, the groups operate with receipt booklets and harass traders daily.

‘Our position remains that these people have the backing of some persons in government because of the way and manner they go about this,’ he said.

Prince also urged the state government to decongest markets, warning that overcrowding had increased the risk of fire outbreaks.

The Financial Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in the state, Mr Evan Mba, commended Governor Bassey Otu’s administration for its inclusive approach but appealed for the rehabilitation of roads, particularly in the Northern Senatorial District, to facilitate business activities and economic growth.

Also speaking, the state Secretary of the group, Chief Dike Ejike, expressed concern over what he described as inadequate government presence in the Northern Senatorial District and called for clarification over the reported reduction in the salaries of primary school teachers.

The President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Cross River, High Chief Chukwuemeka Egwuonwu, appealed to the state government to address the community’s grievances while reaffirming the commitment of the Igbo community to the development of the state.

The community, however, commended the Otu administration for its efforts in tackling insecurity and fostering peaceful coexistence, noting that members of the Igbo community had continued to feel welcomed in the state.

Responding, the Cross River State Chairman of the APC, Mr Christopher Etta, assured the gathering that their concerns would be conveyed to Governor Otu.

He expressed satisfaction that no security-related complaints were raised at the meeting and attributed the country’s current economic challenges to long-standing structural problems.

‘It is true that things are difficult, but the reforms being implemented are aimed at addressing challenges that should have been tackled years ago. It is only a matter of time before the country begins to reap the benefits,’ Etta said.

The Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (HYPPADEC) on Monday presented farm inputs and cash to 5,000 rural farmers in Kwara State as part of efforts to cushion the effects of the dry-season farming disaster suffered by residents.

Speaking during the distribution in Ilorin, the Managing Director of the commission, Abubakar Sadiq Yelwa, said the farmers were assisted with power tillers, planters and other farm equipment, adding that the state government complemented the intervention with improved maize seedlings, fertilisers and agrochemicals.

Yelwa, who said the commission had also earmarked ?10 million for 100 indigent farmers recently affected by natural disasters in some agrarian communities in the state, said the distribution of the relief materials was aimed at fulfilling the commission’s earlier promise to assist farmers whose farmlands and crops were destroyed during the dry season.

He recalled that HYPPADEC had sympathised with the affected communities at the time of the incident and assured them of support to cushion the impact of their losses.

‘We are here today to distribute relief items to communities affected during the dry season, where many farmers lost their farmlands and crops. We promised them, and today we are fulfilling that promise,’ Yelwa said.

He also applauded the state government for providing hybrid maize seeds for distribution to farmers across the five local government areas covered by the programme.

He described the initiative as a significant step towards improving agricultural productivity and enhancing farmers’ livelihoods.

According to him, the government’s intervention would encourage improved productivity among farmers, create wealth and contribute to food security in the state.

‘We felt it was important to appreciate the state government for this initiative and encourage it to continue supporting farmers. This is not only beneficial to the state but also to the farmers and their families,’ he said.

On the cost of the intervention, Yelwa said the commission had committed about ?100 million to the relief exercise, adding that ?10 million was earmarked for distribution among 100 farmers whose farmlands were affected, while the relief materials were valued at about ?90 million at the time of purchase.

‘What is important is that the government is thinking about its people and supporting farmers. That is the real investment,’ he said.

Also speaking, the Supervising Commissioner for Agriculture in Kwara, Mrs Toyosi Thomas, said the partnership between HYPPADEC and the state government would boost agricultural productivity and improve farmers’ yields.

The commissioner described the initiative as a demonstration of effective collaboration between the commission, the state government and local government councils in supporting farmers.

She added that the beneficiaries would benefit from extension services to ensure proper utilisation of the inputs and adoption of improved farming practices.

‘It is not common for farmers to receive mechanisation support, production inputs and extension services together. This collaboration is expected to deliver meaningful results,’ she said.

The commissioner also said the Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture was supporting 7,500 farmers with fertilisers, while 2,000 farmers would benefit from the state’s Special Maize Programme.

She explained that the programme was designed as a holistic intervention, providing mechanisation support, technical extension services, production inputs and an off-take arrangement with flour mills.

The Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Abubakar Abdullai, advised the beneficiaries to take full advantage of the intervention by adopting improved farming practices and maximising the use of the hybrid seeds.

He said Kwara had enormous agricultural potential, noting that maize could be cultivated twice annually, while rice could be grown up to three times a year because of the state’s favourable conditions.

‘There are buyers waiting for the harvest. The opportunity is there, and it is now up to the farmers to make the most of it and become successful commercial farmers,’ he said.

The principal of Community Grammar School, Ahoro-Esiele Oyo state, Mrs Rachel Alamu, has recounted how military airstrikes around the kidnappers’ camp became more frightening than the bandits themselves during the final weeks of her 56-day captivity.

Mrs Alamu, who was abducted alongside teachers and pupils from the school in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, shared her experience during a thanksgiving service at Antioch Baptist Church, Ogbomoso, following her release.

Describing the seventh week of their captivity as the most traumatic, she said the intensified military bombardment left the captives fearing they could be killed by stray missiles.

‘The seventh week was the hardest for us all. That was when the troops increased their air raids. It was so intense that, at a point, the fear of the bandits became secondary.’

She added: ‘At a point, the fear of the bandits became secondary. We were just praying that missiles would not accidentally drop on us. We were so afraid. Amidst that fear, God consoled our hearts.’

According to the principal, the kidnappers had earlier raised their hopes by telling them that Governor Seyi Makinde had assured them they would be released before Friday.

‘They had told us the previous week that the Governor said that before Friday we would be released, so we were calm. But when the air raids started on Tuesday, they became so furious.’

Mrs Alamu said tensions escalated towards the end of that week when one of the gang commanders summoned her.

‘Towards the end of that week, the commander came and said, ‘Principal, come!’ I was already shaking because I knew what that could mean.’

She said the commander blamed the government’s military offensive for disrupting their plans before issuing a chilling threat.

‘He said, ‘See what your government has done. I’m going to kill one of you today.’ I just fell to the ground and started rolling on the ground, crying.’

The rescued principal said she pleaded with the gang leader to spare their lives.

‘I said, ‘I brought four men, remaining two and you still want to take more. I already know that the loss of the other two will continue to haunt me for the rest of my life.”

According to her, the commander unexpectedly calmed down and asked for her opinion on how the situation could be resolved.

‘Very unlike him, he said they should call me and asked, ‘Now your government is doing this, what do you want me to do?’ I told him, ‘What you are asking for is beyond any of the victims’ families. Just ask for what we can run around for.”

Mrs Alamu said the terrifying night continued as the captives heard sounds of digging nearby, making them believe the kidnappers were preparing their graves.

‘I thought that had gone. Later in the night, we started hearing shovels, and my men started crying, shouting, ‘Mama, talk to them. They have started digging the ground.”

She said, however, that the feared executions never took place.

‘To the glory of God, they later told us to start moving. They told me to warn the children to stop crying; otherwise, they would kill them. But how can I explain to a two- or three-year-old child not to cry or ask for food?’

Mrs Alamu also revealed that throughout the ordeal, one of her biggest prayers was that she would return home to find her family alive.

‘I also prayed to God not to meet an empty home, because I knew my husband’s health.’

Reflecting on the 56-day ordeal, she attributed the survival of all the captives to divine intervention, saying it was only God’s mercy that prevented the kidnappers from carrying out their repeated threats.

Bandits, in the early hours of Sunday, stormed the residence of a high court judge, Justice Farouk Hassan Bunza, at Zogirma road in Bunza Local Government Area of Kebbi State, and abducted him.

Sources told newsmen that the judge had just returned from Sokoto, when the gunmen invaded his house.

It was gathered that the bandits started shooting sporadically before whisking the judge away.

When contacted, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Bashir Usman, confirmed the incident.

He said: ‘I can confirm that Justice Farouk Hassan Bunza was abducted from his residence in Bunza around midnight.’

Usman added that on receiving the report of his abduction, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Umar Muhammad Hadejia, immediately deployed tactical and intelligence operatives in the area to ensure his safe return.

Usman said the police were detailed to comb the forest, adding that they are now in the forest tracking the kidnappers.

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State will on Tuesday host the wife of the Vice-President, Hajia Nana Shettima, who will represent the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, at the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Social Investment Programme scheduled to hold in Akure.

The programme, under the Food Outreach Scheme, is expected to provide about 1,800 bags of rice and other food items to vulnerable residents across the state, including widows, persons with disabilities, senior citizens and other indigent persons.

Briefing journalists in Akure on Monday, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr Seun Osamaye, said the event would hold at the International Event Centre (The Dome), Alagbaka, from 10 a.m.

According to her, Hajia Shettima, who is also the National Vice-Chairman of the Renewed Hope Initiative, would represent the First Lady at the programme, while Governor Aiyedatiwa and his wife, Mrs Esther Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa, the state coordinator of the initiative, would receive the delegation.

She said the intervention was aimed at cushioning the effects of the prevailing economic challenges on vulnerable groups in the state.

She explained that beneficiaries were carefully selected from recognised associations of persons with disabilities, widows’ groups, senior citizens’ organisations, registered non-governmental organisations and the 18 local government areas to ensure that the items reached deserving recipients.

Osamaye said: ‘The governor will receive the wife of the Vice-President, while the wife of the governor will assist in hosting the delegation.

‘About 1,800 bags of rice and other food items will be distributed. We have identified structured associations and community groups across the state to ensure the relief materials get to the intended beneficiaries.

‘Local government chairmen have also been directed to identify vulnerable persons at the grassroots.’

The commissioner added that beneficiaries who were unable to attend the event would receive their allocations through designated representatives.

Osamaye also announced that another empowerment programme would hold on Wednesday under the Project 774 Initiative of the APC National Women Leader, Dr Mary Alile.

She said the programme, titled Sensitisation and Empowerment of Women on Gender Equality and Adequate Representation in Governance, would empower about 1,000 women entrepreneurs from the state’s 18 local government areas through financial support and capacity-building.

‘The beneficiaries for Wednesday are different from those for Tuesday. About 1,000 women entrepreneurs across the state will receive financial support to strengthen their businesses,’ she said.

She urged the media to give the programmes adequate publicity, noting that they would further support the state’s social investment drive and women empowerment initiatives.

Osamaye added that the programmes were in line with Governor Aiyedatiwa’s OUR EASE Agenda, particularly its focus on social inclusion and expanding opportunities for women and other vulnerable groups.

Nigerian rapper, Oludemilade Martin Alejo popularly known as YCee, has addressed the Olodo Uprising controversy, saying his comments were misinterpreted by many people and he does not have a university degree.

Speaking during a recent interview, YCee said he was concerned about what he described as society’s increasing obsession with wealth.

According to him, the pursuit of money has affected people’s values and attitudes.

The rapper also rejected claims that his remarks were classist or elitist.

He explained that he does not have a university degree and shared how he was unable to gain admission to study Computer Science at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) because he did not meet the required cut-off mark.

‘I hate what the pursuit of money has done to us as a society. There are societies that are worse of than Nigeria. War-torn societies where people do not behave as badly as Nigerians. And the excuse is always so long as you make money.

‘The whole Olodo Uprising frenzy, I didn’t coin the phrase. I feel a lot of people missed my point and are trying to make it seem as though I was classist of elitist because I have some level of education.

‘Mind you I just have my school cert o. I don’t have a university degree. It got to some point in SS2 when I couldn’t read anymore, I was like I’m done. I had wanted to study computer science, but I couldn’t meet the cut off to study in UNILAG but now they’ve reduced cut off maybe if I had written now I’d have gotten computer science,’ he stated.

YCee said his educational background does not support the perception that he was looking down on others.

He maintained that his comments were aimed at addressing societal values rather than attacking people based on their level of education.

Leading manufacturers unveiled flagship foldables, AI-powered premium devices, gaming phones, and camera-centric smartphones, giving buyers more options than ever before.

Meanwhile, if you are upgrading your current device or planning to switch brands, this month’s releases demonstrate how artificial intelligence, better cameras, faster processors, and longer software support are shaping the future of mobile technology.

In this article, Tribune Online looked into the latest smart phones in July, and highlighted ten of the biggest smartphone launches that have dominated headlines and are expected to remain popular throughout the second half of 2026.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8

Samsung once again raised the bar for foldable smartphones with the Galaxy Z Fold8. The flagship device features a slimmer profile, stronger hinge, brighter AMOLED displays, Galaxy AI features, and improved multitasking designed for professionals. The upgraded camera system and powerful Snapdragon chipset make it one of the year’s most capable premium smartphones.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip8

The Galaxy Z Flip8 refines Samsung’s compact foldable formula with a larger external display, enhanced battery efficiency, improved AI photography, and a more durable design. It remains one of the most stylish flagship smartphones available for users who prefer portability without sacrificing performance.

TECNO Camon 50 Ultra 5G

TECNO continues strengthening its premium lineup with the Camon 50 Ultra 5G. Known for its impressive camera technology, AI image processing, vibrant AMOLED display, and fast charging capabilities, the smartphone is aimed at contenttcccreators and photography enthusiasts looking for flagship-like features at a competitive price.

TECNO Pova 7 Ultra 5G

Built for gamers and power users, the TECNO Pova 7 Ultra 5G combines a high-refresh-rate display, a large battery, advanced cooling technology, and AI performance optimisation. It’s one of TECNO’s strongest devices for users who prioritise gaming and entertainment.

OPPO Reno16 Pro

OPPO’s Reno16 Pro continues the company’s tradition of delivering premium camera performance. Although the Oppo Reno16 Pro was released on May 29, 2026, in China, it was later launched globally on July 13, 2026. The smart phone is equipped with AI-enhanced photography, an elegant design, fast charging, and a high-quality AMOLED display. It appeals to users seeking a balance of style and functionality.

Nothing Phone (4b)

Nothing expands its smartphone portfolio with the Phone (4b), offering its signature transparent-inspired design, clean Android experience, AI-powered features, and dependable everyday performance. The device targets users who appreciate minimalist software and unique industrial design.

Motorola Razr 70 Ultra

Motorola continues competing aggressively in the foldable market with the Razr 70 Ultra. Featuring a refined hinge mechanism, premium OLED displays, flagship processor, and enhanced cameras, it offers an attractive alternative to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip series.

Vivo X300 Ultra

The vivo X300 Ultra is built for mobile photography enthusiasts. Developed with advanced imaging technology, it offers flagship camera sensors, AI-assisted image processing, premium build quality, and top-tier performance that competes with the industry’s best camera phones.

Redmi Note 15 Pro+ 5G

Xiaomi’s Redmi Note 15 Pro+ continues pushing the boundaries of the upper mid-range category. It combines a smooth high-refresh-rate display, powerful processor, long-lasting battery, fast charging, and impressive camera performance at a price that remains accessible to many buyers.

HONOR X9d 5G

HONOR rounds off the list with the X9d 5G, a smartphone that delivers excellent battery life, AI-powered software enhancements, durable construction, and reliable everyday performance. It is designed for users who want premium features without paying flagship prices.

Biggest smartphone trends in July 2026

The latest smart phones in July reveal several clear industry trends. Artificial intelligence has become a standard feature, improving photography, productivity, voice assistance, and battery management. Foldable smartphones continue gaining popularity as manufacturers improve durability and reduce device thickness.

Camera technology also remains a major area of competition, with brands integrating larger sensors, AI image processing, and professional-grade video capabilities. Meanwhile, faster charging, longer software support, and brighter AMOLED displays have become standard expectations among premium smartphones.

Which smartphone should you buy?

The best choice depends on your priorities.

If productivity is your focus, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold8 stands out. Photography enthusiasts may prefer the vivo X300 Ultra or TECNO Camon 50 Ultra 5G. Gamers will appreciate the TECNO Pova 7 Ultra 5G, while buyers looking for excellent value should consider the Redmi Note 15 Pro+ or HONOR X9d 5G.

Comparing specifications, software support, camera quality, and pricing before making a purchase will help ensure you choose the right device for your needs.

The latest smart phones in July demonstrate how rapidly smartphone technology continues to evolve.

From Samsung’s refined foldables and TECNO’s AI-powered devices to OPPO’s photography-focused Reno16 Pro and Motorola’s premium Razr, July 2026 has delivered one of the strongest lineups in recent years.

Whether you’re upgrading for better photography, gaming, productivity, or AI features, these ten smartphones represent some of the most exciting releases currently available.

The inflation figure, released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), represents a 0.02 percentage point drop from the 15.93 per cent recorded in May and the first decline since February 2026.

The experts spoke in Abuja following the communique issued after the 306th meeting of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), held on July 20 and 21, 2026, at which the CBN retained the Monetary Policy Rate at 26.50 per cent for the second consecutive time.

A Lagos-based economist, Mr Joseph Ukwu, said the decision to hold rates showed that the apex bank was responding to prevailing economic indicators but warned that more needed to be done to ensure inclusive growth.

‘Retaining the interest rate at 26.5 per cent for the second time in two months shows that the CBN is also on its toes, given the conditions of some critical indices, but it has to do more to ensure monetary rate stability that will enable inclusive growth,’ he said.

Ukwu noted that while the marginal drop in inflation was a positive sign, the pace was too slow.

‘Yes, headline inflation eased by 0.02 percentage points from 15.93 per cent to 15.91 per cent in one month between May and June 2026. You see that the inflation drop is small, which means all is not well yet,’ he stated.

He added that the ongoing conflict between Iran and the United States had created uncertainty in the global energy market, a development he said could have implications for Nigeria’s economy.

Also speaking, another economist, Mr Eze Onyekpere, said the high-interest-rate environment was constraining small businesses.

He urged the CBN to fully implement programmes such as the Nigerian Overnight Financing Rate (NOFR) to enhance monetary rate stability and boost investor confidence.

‘When you have a predictable interest rate, it encourages investors’ participation in the economy,’ Onyekpere said.

CBN cites global risks, retains cautious stance

In a communique signed by the CBN Governor, Mr Olayemi Cardoso, the MPC said it decided to maintain the current policy stance after a thorough assessment of the balance of risks.

‘Although headline inflation moderated marginally in June 2026, global uncertainties have heightened due mainly to the renewed hostilities in the Middle East. In view of the evolving developments, maintaining a cautious monetary policy stance remains appropriate,’ the communique stated.

The Committee noted the potential pass-through effects of rising global energy prices on domestic inflation, but added that the Nigerian economy had remained largely resilient, reflecting gains from previous fiscal and monetary reforms.

‘Maintaining the current monetary policy stance will provide an opportunity to closely monitor incoming data and assess the trajectory of inflation to guide future policy decisions,’ Cardoso said.

The MPC also acknowledged the Federal Government’s renewed commitment to strengthening policy coordination with the monetary authority, noting that greater alignment between fiscal and monetary policies would enhance policy effectiveness.

The Committee further commended the government’s efforts to improve crude oil production and urged relevant agencies to strengthen reforms in other sectors, such as solid minerals, to complement government earnings.

Inflation, GDP and reserves

According to the CBN, headline inflation, year-on-year, eased marginally to 15.91 per cent in June 2026 from 15.93 per cent in May, ending three consecutive months of increases.

Food inflation, however, rose to 17.52 per cent in June from 16.96 per cent in May due to supply constraints, while core inflation moderated to 15.92 per cent from 16.82 per cent, largely on the back of exchange rate stability.

The 12-month average inflation rate also declined to 17.63 per cent in June from 18.36 per cent in May, marking the sixth consecutive month of moderation.

On growth, the CBN said real GDP expanded by 3.89 per cent in the first quarter of 2026, compared with 4.07 per cent in the preceding quarter, driven by the non-oil sector, which grew by 3.94 per cent.

Gross external reserves rose to $52.52 billion as of July 17, 2026, from $50.47 billion at the end of May, sufficient to finance about 11 months of imports of goods and services.

Cardoso projected that output growth would remain resilient in 2026, anchored on improved crude oil production and policy reforms, while inflation is expected to moderate further on continued foreign exchange stability and improved food supply as the harvest season approaches.

Analysts said sustaining monetary rate stability would be critical to attracting increased investment into the Nigerian economy.

The Founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide, Bishop David Oyedepo, has cautioned young Nigerians against sports betting, warning that it is not a pathway to financial freedom or lasting prosperity.

Speaking during a sermon on Sunday, Oyedepo urged youths to abandon the pursuit of quick wealth through gambling, describing it as a habit capable of destroying their future and destiny.

He maintained that genuine success comes through hard work, discipline and patience, not through games of chance.

‘Young people, Naija Bet is not the way to financial fortune. Stop wasting your destiny, stop wasting your destiny, stop wasting your destiny. I have never been once deceived. Stop!’ he said.

The cleric encouraged young people to remain steadfast even when success appears slow, stressing that achievements built on integrity and diligence are more sustainable.

‘Things may be slow, but it is sure,’ he added.

To underscore the importance of gratitude and faithfulness, Oyedepo recounted how he honoured the woman who introduced him to Christianity when he was 15 years old.

According to him, he presented her with a car on his 60th birthday, decades after she led him to Christ.

‘My mother of faith led me to Christ at 15. When I turned 60, I got her a car that they took to her place in the U.S., she wept. You had better wake up,’ he said.

In 1528, the sixteenth-century Italian writer Baldassare Castiglione published his classic, The Book of the Courtier (Il Libro del Cortegiano). One of the memorable words in that work is sprezzatura-his description of the art of making difficult things appear effortless. Oga Ray Ekpu invoked that word last week to describe Professor Ishaq Oloyede’s manner and his work.

I thank the legendary Ekpu for sending me back to Castiglione. In writing about the same man, however, I would rather use a string of simpler words: grace. Quiet strength. Emotional resilience garnished with uncommon candour. Succeeding where others fail is a gift; standing upright where others stumble is grace painted in theological colours.

Those are the words and phrases I choose for the man whose remarkable ten-year tenure as registrar and chief executive of JAMB now draws to a close. Professor Ishaq Oloyede has grit and grace, and the nation has watched them at work.

The Yoruba understand the limits of destiny. They say a benefactor may secure you a job, but he cannot do the work for you. Alág?m? may give birth to a child; whether that child dances well is entirely the child’s affair. Oloyede once told a gathering of editors that a former president recommended him to President Muhammadu Buhari for the appointment. The man who mentioned his name may have opened the door; but the mentioning did not keep him inside. His staying power was the way he handled himself and the job. The strongest testimony to that performance and his emotional intelligence was that he kept his office, his head and his credibility even after the two presidents had fallen out.

‘When I was appointed registrar of JAMB ten years ago, it was strange to me. Did I need it? I was enjoying myself after serving as vice chancellor,’ he told a room full of media men and women, academics and the civil society who had gathered last week to send him off at the close of a tenure that stands almost alone in its worth and consequence.

He described the beginning as strange. For the public, the dominant reaction was cynicism. It was another appointment by a government that had become synonymous with the drab and the dour. So, when Oloyede arrived a decade ago, many Nigerians dismissed him as just another labalábá-a butterfly destined to flutter briefly before vanishing into our vast forest of the forgotten. To the surprise of the watcher, the man cut through turbulence and calm and completed his long-haul flight with his wings colours intact. Ernest Hemingway, in a 1926 letter to the author of ‘The Great Gatsby’, F. Scott Fitzgerald, coined the phrase ‘grace under pressure.’ That is an ideal which Oloyede spent ten years in JAMB turning into public administration.

Year after year, what others had treated as barren ground became, in his nimble hands, fertile soil for innovation, for integrity and measurable results.

Shakespeare wrote in ‘The Tempest’ that ‘What’s past is prologue.’ Oloyede seemed to read that line as a challenge: so, with him, every successful year became merely the introduction to a better one.

You look at the man and remember Aesop’s fable of the thirsty crow. Faced with a pitcher whose water lay beyond reach, Aesop’s crow did not lament the obstacle or curse its fate. It patiently dropped pebbles into the vessel until the water rose to meet its mouth. Others walked away from the same problem; the crow found a solution. That, more than brilliance, is the mark of transformative leadership: the patient intelligence that raises the level instead of complaining about it.

There are people in whose hands every assignment becomes impossible. They are the sort in whose mouths even àkàrà turns into a jaw-breaking bone. Then there are the rare few like the outgoing JAMB minder, for whom àkàrà remains àkàrà; persons in whose mortar old yam and new yam are pounded with the same ease and mastery. In such hands, difficult tasks lose their menace, for competence is second nature.

To the self-possessed pilot, turbulence is merely the sky clearing its throat. That is my further description of Ishaq Oloyede: unflappable. He remained steady-handed throughout the few difficult moments he had to grapple with managing JAMB and its combustible affairs. The pilot never allowed the severity of turbulence to dictate the course of his flight.

Wordsworth wrote that ‘the best portion of a good man’s life’ consists in ‘his little, nameless, unremembered acts of kindness and of love.’ Public service demands a wider canvas, but the principle is the same. The worth of a public officer lies not in speeches but in the quiet accumulation of honest, heroic deeds whose effects outlive applause.

The exiting man’s score is not a hundred percent, but it is certainly above seventy-nine. What he could not fix is what his successor has been appointed to fix. I wish the new man, 40-year-old Professor Segun Aina, an even more fruitful tenure. British statesman, novelist and two times Prime Minister, Benjamin Disraeli, once observed that ‘almost everything that is great has been done by youth.’ We will watch closely to see whether the new registrar proves Disraeli right. I pray he does. Pray, I must. I have no other choice: his Otan Ayegbaju hometown is only a four-minute walk from my Eripa.

Seventy-one-year-old Professor Ishaq Oloyede is one of the reasons this democracy has not scored a big, fat zero, as round and vacant as a shark’s eye. As the man takes his leave of JAMB, one hopes that Nigeria, a desert of competent, trustworthy players, will not ask its striker to hang up his boots. The nation still has new fields to till, new frontiers to cross, and new medals to win.