Kabiru Masari, the political masterstroke

Until he was appointed a placeholder while President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was waltzing his way to power, the name was as silent as his personality, taciturn but focused, operating under the radar, but the eyes of the head-hunter had him in focus. That’s one of the strong points of a leader.the ability to select a value team

Masari continued to set tongues wagging until the issue of who would be the Vice President to run with the leader was settled, and like the shadow he cherishes, he stepped aside and disappeared from the radar, which made people wonder the type of character he was.

Masari had one thing going for him, like water, he neither contends nor confronts, he rather keeps his course and focus, a rare and uncommon strategist, but not raising his voice, the political firmament moved on as if he was not there.

Fast forward to his appointment as Special Adviser to the President on political matters, and his ways once again yielded a paradigm shift in political harvest that has left the nation reeling and trotting to catch up.

The effectiveness of Masari in his post has become a rare justification of a round peg in a round hole, which, before long, started like wildfire, pushing everything and everyone in one direction.

Till date, many people are wrongly accusing President Tinubu of coercing opposition to join him without knowing that the strategist is Masari, who has calmly and quietly worked behind the scenes in his usual manner to hone ways and means of winning others for the President with astounding success.

This manifested in a tsunami of defections into the ruling party, which has swept all corners of Nigeria, bringing with it defections from ward levels to local councils, state legislature, governors, national assembly members, and all manner of ranks to the extent that fears have gripped the opposition that the regime of Tinubu was aiming for a one-party state in the country.

Masari’s strategies from his near silent office has further stoked fears among those who seldom can understand what is going on that the President wanted to transit into a lifetime leader by staying beyond his constitutionally given terms without knowing that the secret was in the strategy of Masari who has the proper understanding of Nigeria’s politics was pulling the right strings while the President has given him free hand to handle the affairs of his office. The fact is that the duo of the President and Masari are perfect political combinations that achieve results, thereby making assurance doubly sure of the President’s reelection is a foregone conclusion.

Another top score of Masari is that his method of dispute resolutions for inter and intra-party affairs is top-notch and wins the undecided as well as opposition to the side of the President.

Masari has shown that there are people with near esoteric political understanding, but calmly and quietly operating outside the corridors of power and in the shadows.

With men of such capacity in the President’s team, it can only get better, while the opposition will be left reeling, looking for what hit them, while the President Surges ahead to take the crown.

Funke Akindele fires back at troll over nylon bag comment

Filmmaker Funke Akindele has responded to a social media troll who mocked her for packing food in the popular ‘yellow and black’ nylon bag.

The critic took to Snapchat to shade the movie star, writing: ‘Aunty Funke you are not posh at all. Why yellow and black nylon?’

Akindele clapped back with sarcasm, saying:

‘Oh maybe I need to go and get plastic bags from Macy’s or Nordstrom. Elenu shipoti, you can come and buy nylon for me. I already blocked you. It’s a privilege for you to be seeing my snap. At least you can see I am an elderly person even if I am not old enough to be your mum. Wide mouth.’

Her response quickly stirred reactions online. Many fans applauded the actress for putting the troll in check.

Others praised her humility, pointing out that even celebrities use regular items like everyone else.

The incident reflects the scrutiny public figures often face on social media, where even simple, everyday choices can attract criticism.

Catching leaders young

‘Leadership Made Easy for Young Minds’ is a 10-chapter, 50-page book that does not only inform but calls readers to action. It ensures that young minds do not just digest the content but act upon it, provoking their conscience and coherence. Every chapter rests on the other, flowing logically in a pyramid format.

The central concept of leadership is explicitly dealt with, tailored to resonate with the target audience, which are the teenagers. The book expands on why leadership is essential and its impact, especially in Chapters 1 and 3. It emphasises that leadership is not about titles or positions but about making decisions that benefit all.

The author, Adetola Ajibola, also presents leadership as a journey, debunking the idea that becoming a leader means one has arrived. Instead, leadership is shown as a growth process. The book offers a balanced perspective, exploring not only leadership itself but also the obstacles and challenges leaders face, reminding readers that leaders are not born perfect.

Real-life experiences and scenarios are included, with practical steps illustrated in Chapter 7. In Chapter 9, the author stresses the need to leave a legacy, pointing out that leadership is ultimately about results. Finally, the book highlights technology as a complement to leadership in today’s world.

The tone is simple, free of ambiguity, relevant and relatable to young minds-making it an effective guide for teenagers who aspire to lead. This book is highly recommended to aspiring leaders, teenage teachers, training institutions and schools. In it, they will find gems that would help teenagers become the leaders they are supposed to be.

Reps committee commends NDPHC on safety standards at Calabar power plant

The House of Representatives Committee on Safety Standards and Regulations has commended the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) for upholding high safety standards at the Calabar Power Plant in Odukpani, Cross River State.

The Committee gave the commendation after an on-the-spot assessment of the 565MW facility, noting significant improvements since its last visit in 2018.

Chairman of the Committee, David Zacharias, said the inspection was aimed at ensuring that Nigerians work in safe environments and enjoy long, healthy lives.

He praised the staff for maintaining the plant, stressing that the health and safety of workers in the power sector are critical to both government and the economy.

‘We, the Safety Standards and Regulations Committee members, always appreciate when we step into any organisation and see that they have done very well. My impression here is positive and you also heard the same from my colleagues,’ Zacharias said.

He, however, noted that the visit was not only to commend but also to highlight areas requiring improvement.

‘When we come to a place like this, we must observe areas that need attention. What we are saying here is to encourage them to deepen their commitment to safety issues. We went round and saw their challenges, which we will take back to the government.

‘We are hopeful that by the time we return, some of the issues we observed would have been addressed,’ he added.

Specifically, the committee called for improvement in the work environment for staff, including better lighting, rest areas for shift workers, and adequate seating in offices.

The lawmakers, who were conducted around the plant by the Chief Operating Officer of the Calabar Power Plant, Engr. Ayoade Olanrewaju Bex, described the facility as one of the best they had visited in terms of safety standards and compliance.

Welcoming the delegation on behalf of the Executive Director, Generation, Abdullahi Kassim, an engineer, the General Manager, Generation Projects at NDPHC, Engr. Valerie Agberagba, said safety and standards remain top priorities for the company.

She stressed that the company’s workforce is central to its operations, adding that NDPHC would continue to improve the work environment for staff, particularly those at its power plants.

‘The visit of the House Committee on Safety Standards and Regulations was very important to us. It gave us the opportunity to assess where we are in terms of health, safety, and compliance with regulations and standards at our power plants.

‘For me, it was an eye-opener. You could see that when they compared the 2018 report to what they have now, there has been a great improvement in compliance. This shows that NDPHC is not taking issues of safety, regulations, and environmental standards for granted. We are working towards an environment that is safe for both our workers and the operation of the power plant,’ Agberagba said.

She stated that the company has taken note of the areas that need improvements, adding that ‘this management is very concerned about the welfare of the staff, because if they are not in a good position to work, we are not going to get the best out of them.

‘So those little observations have to do with good conditions of work for the staff, we will make sure that these things are taken into consideration in the shortest possible time.’

Also speaking, Ag. Head, Health, Safety and Environment, NDPHC, Austin Ijagem disclosed that the plant has not recorded any work related accident that has led to fatality since it began operations.

‘The safety at the power plant has been top notch. Their consultant mentioned that in 2018, when they visited, there were a lot of pending issues, safety concerns that they raised. And they have also acknowledged that when they came in today, the difference was clear. A lot of the safety concerns raised in 2018 have been closed out. That means we are getting nearer to almost zero pending issues as far as the safety at the power plant is concerned’, he stated.

HURIWA, Jurist Omolaye-Ajileye commend SSS DG For N20m award to wrongfully arrested individuals

Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), and a jurist and visiting Professor at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Alaba Omolaye-Ajileye, have commended the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr.

Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, for awarding N20 million as compensation to Mrs. Chineze Ozoadibe and five other individuals wrongfully arrested.

HURIWA said the latest compensation, the recent judicial victory recorded by the DSS in the suit filed against Prof. Pat Utomi’s bid to float a shadow cabinet, and another against African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, were testimonies to the DG’s faith in the rule of law.

On his part, retired Justice Omolaye-Ajileye, lauded the DSS boss for demonstrating leadership, accountability, and respect for human rights, saying they reflect a commitment to transparency and the rule of law.

‘The award of N20 million in total compensation to these wrongfully detained individuals showcases Mr. Ajayi’s total dedication to rectifying mistakes, building public trust, and upholding justice,’ said the retired judge.

‘This action sets a positive precedent for other security agencies to follow and underscores the DSS’s commitment to

protecting the rights of Nigerian citizens,’ noted the retired jurist.

According to HURIWA: ‘The decision to challenge Professor Pat Utomi’s plan to form a shadow cabinet in court, rather than resorting to unlawful arrest or detention, is a significant step towards entrenching democratic principles.’

In a statement by its national coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA noted that the ‘DSS’ recourse to judicial interpretation marks a refreshing departure from the long-standing culture of arbitrary clampdowns on dissenting voices.

‘By seeking judicial interpretation, the DSS has shown that law enforcement can safeguard internal security while still respecting constitutional freedom,’ observed the NGO, adding, ‘this approach aligns with global best practices in democratic governance.’

On the new DSS culture of compensating persons wrongfully arrested, HURIWA noted, ‘These actions, the fourth that has become public knowledge, demonstrate that the DSS, under Mr. Ajayi, recognizes that mistakes are inevitable in security operations.

‘However, what defines professionalism is the courage to admit errors and offer redress. We urge the DSS to codify these reforms into official practice directions so that the principles of compensation, accountability, and respect for due process become entrenched in the Service’s operations,’ observed the NGO.

‘The DSS has set a standard that others must follow; one where internal security is pursued without trampling on fundamental rights. If sustained, this new culture will enhance professionalism, boost public confidence, and consolidate Nigeria’s democratic values,’ the group concluded.

Tiv teachers award Shipper’s Council boss for community empowerment

For community empowerment and academic excellence, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter of the Tiv Teachers’ Education Advancement Forum (TTEAF) paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Pius Uke Yima Akuta, in his Abuja office, and presented him award.

The union, which comprises teachers of Benue State indigenes of Tiv extraction drawn from both private and public schools across the FCT, said the recognition was conferred on Akuta in acknowledgment of his outstanding track record in education, human capital development, and community empowerment.

Speaking during the event, the leader of the TTEAF delegation, Mr. James Azua Tashi, explained that the award was not only in recognition of Akuta’s personal achievements in the field of education but also his contributions to nurturing the younger generation.

According to him, the CEO has consistently supported educational advancement by offering scholarships to students of the Moses Orshii Adasu University, Makurdi (MOAUM), formerly Benue State University, Makurdi.

Beyond scholarships, the union noted that Akuta has empowered various stakeholders by facilitating employment opportunities for qualified applicants in government agencies and parastatals, including the Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, and the Nigeria Customs Service, among others. He was also lauded for appointing a former student leader as one of his aides-an action described as a strong demonstration of his commitment to youth inclusion in leadership.

TTEAF highlighted his sponsorship of a distinguished son of Benue who emerged as the first person from the North-Central region to become President of the Association of Colleges of Education in Nigeria. This, the teachers said, underscores Akuta’s consistent role in breaking barriers for the people of his community.

During the visit, the delegation also tabled a number of requests before the Shippers’ Council boss.

The teachers appealed to him to extend his generosity to the children of their colleagues who have passed away by providing customized educational materials and books. They further requested that he consider supporting less-privileged students of Tiv extraction in the six area councils of the FCT and in Benue State through People Upliftment Projects Initiatives (PUPIs).

The union also called on Akuta to intervene in the plight of their members who are yet to secure government employment and are currently working under Parents-Teachers Association (PTA) arrangements, where they receive what they described as ‘meager and unsustainable’ salaries.

Responding, Akuta expressed deep appreciation to the union for finding him worthy of the award, which he described as both humbling and motivating. He pledged to carefully consider their demands and assured them of his continued commitment to the cause of education and empowerment.

‘Teachers are the bedrock of every society. You are the ones who light the path for future generations. I encourage you to remain steadfast in this noble calling,’ Akuta said.

The Executive Secretary further urged the teachers to take their campaign of recognition and support to other well-meaning sons and daughters of Benue State, stressing that the burden of education development should not rest on one individual alone.

Akuta was accompanied at the event by Professor Simon Akaayar, a distinguished Professor of Law at the University of Lagos. In his remarks, Prof. Akaayar admonished the Tiv Teachers’ Education Advancement Forum (TTEAF) to remain focused, describing them as ‘the true light of the nation’ whose role in shaping minds and values cannot be overstated.

The event ended on a note of celebration as the teachers reaffirmed their commitment to quality education while pledging to continue their partnership with visionary leaders like Dr. Akuta in promoting learning, scholarship, and nation-building.

With BCCC-Africa’s intervention, students, corps members now equipped to curb plastic pollution nationwide

The Basel Convention Coordinating Centre for the African Region (BCCC-Africa) has organised a workshop for students of the University of Ibadan to train them on how to create awareness on the dangers of plastic waste and solutions to the menace when they proceed to their compulsory one-year National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme across the country, and for serving corps member currently enrolled in the scheme.

The workshop tagged, ‘Accelerating Community Awareness on Plastic Waste through Interventions with Students and Graduates of Tertiary Institutions in Ibadan, Nigeria,’ is a continuation of a project which commenced earlier this year. Earlier on June 18, BCCC-Africa held a one-day Inception Workshop for a project titled: ‘Accelerating community awareness on plastic waste through interventions with students and graduates of tertiary educational institutions in Ibadan, Nigeria,’ on the campus of the University of Ibadan (UI), Ibadan, Oyo State.

The BCCC-Africa Executive Director, Professor Percy Onianwa, at the project inception, noted that ‘Nigerian students and youth corps members have never before been utilised in this manner for any community awareness raising programme. The scheme has a high potential for a wide reach within the country. The trainees are also likely to carry on with awareness-building activities even beyond the lifespan of this project.’

He added, ‘The project is being executed by the BCCC-Africa, with funding provided by the Secretariat of the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm Conventions through its third Small Grants Programme (SGP-3) on Plastic Wastes.’

The project aims to engage about 450 final-year students of the University of Ibadan (UI), and 450 final-year students of The Polytechnic Ibadan, and also work with National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members that are already deployed to serve in the metropolitan city of Ibadan.

The project will also develop educational materials that are suitable for awareness raising and outreach programmes on plastic waste in Nigeria and build the capacities of higher academic institutions’ students and NYSC members for the purpose of engaging them in community awareness through advocating activities on plastic waste and management.

The intensive full day programme held on Saturday, September 20, for students of UI could be broadly divided into two parts, namely ‘problems’ and ‘solutions’ to the plastic waste challenge in Nigeria. The first part with the broad topic of ‘Plastics, Plastic Wastes, Plastic Pollution,’ took them through sub-topics including: ‘Nature of Plastics/Plastic Waste/Single-Use Plastics’, ‘Microplastics and Chemicals in Plastics’, ‘Plastic Pollution: Health Hazards of Plastic Wastes’.

The second part of the session on ‘Managing Plastic Wastes’ dealt with sub-topics including Sorting, Collection and Recycling. Mr Victor Okunola, a recycler from Plastic Edge, said that recycling can become a viable source of income. Professors Adie and Ipeaiyeda spoke on ‘Alternatives to Plastics’ that are less harmful to the environment, such as bamboo, liquid wood and substances that can be added to make plastic biodegradable.

Mr Rafiu Akorede of the Oyo State Ministry of Environment, who spoke on the topic: ‘Managing Plastics in Ibadan,’ mentioned strategies the state government is using for waste management, including decentralised waste collection through waste management consultants, public awareness and advocacy and promoting reusable items.

The ‘Role of Extended Producer Responsibility in Managing Plastic Waste in Nigeria’ was handled by Agharese Onaghise of the Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance (FBRA).

Before she spoke, Prof Onianwa noted that the economics of waste management has changed with the increase in the cost of managing dumpsites. He added that one of the ways to cope with this challenge is the extended producer responsibility.

Onaghise said FBRA, established in 2018, with just four members, now has about 47, adding that the organisation empowers Nigerian industries to manage plastic waste effectively.

Speaking about their experiences, Happiness Abiodun, a 400-level student in the Department of Chemistry, said the workshop was indeed insightful, as she not only learned about the activities of BCCC-Africa but also discovered how plastics can be harmful to the environment, despite their usefulness.

She added, ‘I am grateful to BCCC-Africa and all the speakers for teaching us how to enlighten secondary school students and market women on plastics recycling.’

She said she planned to use her upcoming national service year (NYSC) to initiate a group of corps members that would embark on an enlightenment campaign to students and market women. ‘I also plan to introduce clubs in secondary schools that will focus on plastic recycling, and also bring in resource persons to teach them. Secondary school students are well-exposed these days, and I believe they will catch the message quickly,’ she added.

David Adewale, a Geology student of the university, said he was now fully aware of the need to reduce the usage of plastics due to its impact on the environment. ‘I understand that there are alternatives to plastics.

BCCC-Africa also conducted another session of the same workshop on Thursday, September 25, for corps members currently enrolled in the NYSC scheme for the same purpose of creating awareness on the dangers of plastic waste and how to manage it.

After the session, Babalola Sunday, a corps member serving in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, described the session as educative. ‘I understood what BCCC-Africa stands for and its functions. I now understand the dangers of plastic pollution, and we can help to save the situation.’

Ayomide Hannah, another corps member, thanked BCCC-Africa for the opportunity to attend training on plastic waste. ‘I learned about the history and objectives of BCCC-Africa, particularly its role in protecting human health from hazardous waste.

‘The sessions emphasised the hazards of plastic pollution on land and in aquatic environments, supported with statistics, and also explored existing policies and management strategies. I was especially encouraged to create awareness by communicating plastic waste issues to people of all ages.’

Former NNPCL boss visits APC National Chairman over mother’s death

The former Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Andy Yakubu, has described the death of the mother of All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, as a national tragedy.

Yakubu stated this during a condolence visit to Prof. Yilwatda at his residence in Abuja over the weekend.

He said the passing of Mama Lydia Yilwatda, mother of the APC National Chairman, who died at the age of 83 at the Jos University Teaching Hospital, was a painful national loss.

‘The late Mama Lydia was a devoted Christian, a virtuous woman leader, and a pillar of the Church of Christ in Nations. Her death is not only a personal loss to the National Chairman but also to the entire APC family in Plateau State and across the country,’ Yakubu said.

He noted that Mama Lydia, together with her late husband, Reverend Toma Goshewe Yilwatda, made significant contributions to the growth of the church in Borno, Yobe, Bauchi, and Plateau States.

‘There is no doubt that Mama’s passing is painful and devastating to the Yilwatda family, especially at a time when her motherly advice and prayers were most needed, particularly by Professor Yilwatda. Her demise is a great loss to the Church, the Women’s Fellowship, and Plateau State,’ he added.

International Day of Older Persons 2025: Fostering older adults’ well-being

ACCORDING to the World Health Organisation, the population of older adults is projected to almost double by 2050. It is also projected that by 2050, 80% of older persons will live in low- and middle-income countries. Nigeria currently has the highest number of older persons in Africa and the 19th globally, with the number likely to triple by 2050. These statistics highlight older adults as an important part of the population whose health should be prioritised. Despite the rising population of older persons in our society, older adults’ health, especially mental health, continues to be shrouded in ignorance, shamed and stigmatised.

In the media, we often see cases of old women being burnt to death or isolated after being accused of being witches. We also see older adults begging to survive, homeless older adults, and the elderly living alone in dilapidated houses. Many people will admit to seeing older adults struggling with their mental health, exhibiting signs of cognitive decline or psychosis, and so on.

The United Nations designated October 1st as the International Day of Older Persons in celebration of older adults and to increase awareness of the challenges and opportunities of population ageing. This year, the theme is ‘Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Well-being and Our Rights’. This theme recognises older adults as active participants in their community initiatives and global efforts. It also spotlights the importance of advocating for the aspirations, inclusion, and rights of older adults. It also reminds us of the importance of fostering the well-being of older adults.

Despite the contributions of older adults to society, they continue to face systemic challenges that negatively influence their well-being and compromise their rights. Ageism, the stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination of older adults based on their age, remains a major obstacle to older adults. Many older adults are often isolated, as they are considered too old to participate in certain activities. This isolation deprives them of social support, which is proven to be a positive predictor of mental health.

Access to adequate and quality healthcare is another pressing concern. Many older adults live with chronic illness, mobility challenges, cognitive decline, and other health concerns. Loneliness, depression, psychosis, and other mental health challenges are also common among older adults, particularly among those living alone. The current wave of ‘japa’, with many youths emigrating to other countries, frequently results in situations where aged parents have no close family members around them in old age. Furthermore, the low number of healthcare professionals in Nigeria also implies that there are few healthcare professionals skilled in providing geriatric care, thereby limiting access to healthcare for older adults.

Financial insecurity is another challenge many older adults experience. With no income, meagre or inconsistent pensions and poor health insurance, many older adults are left struggling. It is common knowledge that social protection for the elderly in Nigeria is mostly nonexistent. With increasing life expectancies and harsh economic realities, we have to address this problem.

Furthermore, elder abuse – which may be physical, emotional, or financial – remains an underreported and under-addressed crisis. According to the WHO, 1 in 6 people aged 60 years and older experience some form of abuse, a number expected to rise as populations age further.

The Well-being of Older Persons: Everyone’s Responsibility

Promoting the well-being and rights of older persons is a shared societal responsibility. From the government, families, and communities to schools, businesses, and civil society organizations, everyone has a role to play in creating environments where older persons can thrive with dignity.

The government must lead the way in implementing the National Policy on Ageing for Older Persons in Nigeria, which was ratified by the Federal Executive Council in February 2021. Government at all levels must also increase funding for health and the recruitment of healthcare professionals at all cadres.

But the role of the government alone is not enough. Civil society organisations, including elder care institutions, religious groups, and advocacy networks, are essential in raising awareness, providing services, and mobilizing public support for age-inclusive well-being initiatives. These groups can help amplify the voices of older persons and ensure they are not just beneficiaries of aid but active participants in shaping policies that affect their lives. These groups must also foster awareness and support for older adults’ health.

Perhaps most importantly, younger generations must be engaged in fostering intergenerational solidarity and communities. Through mentorship programmes, volunteer initiatives, and shared community spaces, people of all ages can build bridges of empathy, respect, and cooperation. The strength of a society is often measured by how it treats its elders, honouring their experiences, learning from their wisdom, and protecting their rights, which is a mark of true progress. Asido Foundation is leading these efforts through targeted advocacy and interventions.

As we reflect on this year’s theme, ‘Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action’, it becomes clear that the empowerment of older people is a necessity, not a luxury. Ensuring their well-being and rights today helps build the inclusive, resilient societies of tomorrow.

Oyetola urges innovative financing to drive Marine and Blue Economy

THE Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has declared that finance remains the decisive factor in transforming Nigeria’s bold new vision for its marine and blue economy into tangible impact, stressing that without sustainable investment, the country risks leaving its vast marine resources underutilised.

Oyetola recently made this call in Lagos at the 3rd Quarter Citizens’ and Stakeholders’ Engagement of the Ministry and its agencies.

Addressing an audience of industry leaders, policymakers, investors and interest groups, the Minister described the event’s theme, ‘From Policy to Impact: Finance is Key,’ as both timely and urgent, noting that the Federal Executive Council’s approval of Nigeria’s first-ever National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy in May 2025 had created a clear roadmap for growth, but that the next critical step lay in mobilising the capital needed to achieve results.

According to him, the new policy envisions economic growth across a wide range of sectors, including shipping, fisheries and aquaculture, marine tourism, coastal infrastructure, renewable energy, and ocean research.

However, he reminded stakeholders that ‘vision without financing remains no more than a dream’. He pointed out that government alone cannot shoulder the immense responsibility of modernising Nigeria’s ports, sustaining maritime security, expanding aquaculture, or building climate-resilient infrastructure. It would take innovative partnerships, international financing mechanisms and strong private sector engagement to translate policy into measurable outcomes.

Oyetola drew attention to the Ministry’s proven record of discipline and results, recalling that in the first quarter of 2025, the Central Results Delivery Coordination Unit (CRDCU) awarded the Ministry a performance score of 96 per cent, while in 2024 the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council named it the best performing ministry in the country. These achievements, he said, demonstrate the government’s capacity to deliver, but scaling up requires unlocking far greater resources.

The Minister cited recent examples where financing has already yielded impact. Nigeria, he noted, has sustained a piracy-free record for more than three years in the Gulf of Guinea, a feat made possible through investments in the Deep Blue Project. Rehabilitation and modernisation of Lagos ports are underway, designed to attract larger vessels, cut down turnaround time, and create thousands of jobs, with similar initiatives planned across the country.