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Lawlessness in Lagos, Residents Berate LASBCA, Petition Governor over Illegal Demolition

The controversies over the parcels of land in Alma Beach, Ikate Lagos are yet to abate .Abah Onah, Frank Briggs, Amythorix company Limited and a host of others who own buildings in the area are poised for a renewed legal claim of ownership to the properties situate at Ikate, Lekki area of the state. They recently approached Court of Appeal to commence contempt proceedings against Lagos State Ministry of physical planning and Lagos State Building Control Agency, LASBCA over what they termed ‘ lawlessness, impunity and abuse to the constitutional supremacy of Court decisions “

In an affidavit sworn to at the Court of Appeal on the 17th July, 2024 by Monday Peter an official of Amytorix company, LASBCA was alleged to have rolled in bulldozers into part of their landed property and demolished buildings and assets worth over N 1,000,000,000.00( One billion Naira). He claimed that LASBCA’s action is a direct affront and denigration of the processes of Court and asked the Appeal Court to ensure the sanctity of the judicial process and respect for the rule of law.

“Unless this Court grants this application, the contemnors will continue with the nefarious activities of invading the premises of the Appellant/Application to demolish and destroy the remaining properties’, Peter swore in the affidavit which was sighted by this medium.

Abah Onah and Amytorix company who claim rightful ownership of the landed property described the action by agents of Lagos State Government as Contemptuous of the Court of APPEAL which had heard arguments in Appeal NO: CAL/LAG/CV/172/- Amythorix Company Limited v. Netconstruct Limited
& ANOR.

LASBCA was alleged to have demolished the buildings which according to the owners have approval from appropriate authorities.

Abah Onah told newsmen that LASBCA or its GM acted contrary to subsisting judgments and orders of court in his quest to grab land for his friends – Netconstruct and Afolabi Oseni. He said Gbolahan Oki, General Manager of LASBCA rolled in bull dozers at 10 pm at night with Policemen and thugs on Friday the 12th July 2024 defying the law and pulling down premises worth billions of naira.

Onah added that LASBCA GM threatened to fully demolish the estate notwithstanding the court orders and that no order can restrain him. Stating that he has many excuses as cover to demolish any house he wishes.
At a post demolition meeting called by the SA e-Gis & Urban Development, the supervising ministry of Oki at which they continued the threat and directive for the others to “negotiate “ with their clients Netconstruct & Afolabi Oseni, Netconstruct Lawyer Muiz Banire, SAN announced that a 2022 legal advice by the Lagos state Attorney General endorsed by the Governor being relied on by the Abah Onah and Amythorix was what “consumed” the former attorney General and the new Attorney General was coming up with a favorable report to them! Netconstruct.The now shaken developers became threatened!

According to Onah, “Oki issued further threats at a meeting summoned by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s Special Adviser on Urban Planning, Jide Babatunde on the 23rd July with Gbolahan Oki , Afolabi Oseni and his Lawyer Muiz Banire in attendance. The SA clearly in partisanship called Muiz Banire their “ uncle “ in the ministry “ and respect must be given to whom it is due”. This was notwithstanding that Muiz Banire, SAN had argued an application before the Court of Appeal for which a Ruling was pending.

Onah Briggs and Amythorix company who had also petitioned the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu agued that’ “there is complete break down of law and order in government circles” and some persons have hijacked the machinery of government to further their personal interests

Briggs told our correspondent that he is yet to understand reasons for the demolition of his property because according to him, ‘ I was fined 21M Naira for erecting structures without approval sometimes ago and LASBCA GM, Gbolahan Oki gave me an account number of Sterling bank with account number: 0072092193 with account name: Akannistic Ventures into which I was directed to pay the fine which I did and wondered what necessitated the demolition of my property’’.

Last week, on behalf of Abah Ona, Briggs and Amytorix company, Sir Ejeta Otuoniyo a legal practitioner submitted a petition to the Governor of Lagos State alleging Gbolahan Oki, LASBCA GM of giving the government a bad image of not respecting judgments and its process.

Sir Ejeta stated that “we have become astounded and completely alarmed that certain individuals have hijacked government agencies and are running them as gestapo organizations within Government, seeking to cripple commercial activities in the country’s commercial nerve center

“If judgments and commercial contracts suffer colorations of primordial sentiments and disregard, then anarchy and complete collapse, loom”, the famous Lagos based lawyer warned.

In a telephone conversation, the Oki, the LASBCA GM debunked the allegation of the petitioner, noting he has been doing his job and that whoever feels aggrieved is free to approach the court.

Victor Felix, LASBCA media officer told our correspondent that the agency does not collect fines in private accounts and that all fines and levies are paid directly to the government coffers. He denied knowledge of any court summons promising to confirm same from the agency’s legal department but couldn’t respond till the time of filling this report.

Nigerian Female Youth Organization Condemns Rumour of Ned Nwoko’s Death, Warns Against Spreading Panic

Maryam Aminu

The Nigerian Female Youth Organization (NFYO) has strongly condemned recent rumours circulating about the death of renowned politician and philanthropist, Senator Prince Ned Nwoko.

The organization’s President, Princess Mimi Peter in a statement, expressed her outrage over the baseless claims, describing them as not only false but also dangerous.

In her statement, she emphasized the potential harm such rumors could cause, particularly to those whose livelihoods depend on Prince Nwoko’s continued well-being.

“Spreading false news of this nature can lead to unnecessary panic, emotional distress, and even tragic consequences for those who are closely associated with Ned Nwoko,” Princess Mimi noted.

She further warned those responsible for disseminating the rumours to desist from such actions saying it has gone too far and will not be tolerated.

Princess Mimi highlighted the legal repercussions the peddlers might face.

“If Prince Ned Nwoko decides to pursue this matter legally, no one should accuse him of abusing his political power. The damage caused by such irresponsible rumors is significant, and those responsible must be held accountable,” the statement added.

The President expressed that the proliferation of fake news has become a significant challenge, especially when it targets prominent individuals and their families.

“It is high time that the government takes decisive action against those who deliberately spread false information to exploit the public’s trust. Punishing these fake news publishers would serve as a deterrent to others who engage in such unethical practices, ensuring that the integrity of the media space is maintained.”

“For too long, certain individuals have used the Nwoko’s family as fodder for sensational content, driven purely by the desire to attract traffic to their platforms. This exploitation is not only harmful to the Nwoko family but also to the broader society, as it perpetuates misinformation and distrust.”

“Just few days ago, I paid him a visit, and I can confirm that he is in good health. This raises the question of why anyone would fabricate such damaging stories?”said Princess Mimi

She added that the spread of these falsehoods underscores the urgent need for stricter regulations and penalties to curb the menace of fake news, protecting individuals and preserving the truth in public discourse.

She further called on the public to verify information before sharing it, urging everyone to consider the broader implications of spreading unverified news.

The President reiterated her support for Prince Ned Nwoko, acknowledging his contributions to the nation and urging calm among his supporters.

Malo and Ibadan Fatal Crashes: FRSC Corps Marshal Extends Condolences, Condemns Reckless Driving

Emmanuel Daudu

The Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, has expressed deep concern over the alarming rate of road fatalities caused by poor driving practices across Nigeria.

In a strong condemnation of these dangerous behaviors, he extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims involved in two tragic crashes that occurred on August 13, 2024.

He expressed that the first incident took place in Ibadan at 9:20 AM on the Ojoo/Iwo road near Ajao, opposite Bovas fuel station. The crash involved four vehicles, including a White Mack Truck (AKM 548 ZY), which suffered a brake failure and collided with three other vehicles: a White Nissan Bus (MUB 20 LG), a Red Nissan Micra (BDJ 520 YC), and a Blue Honda CRV (KRD 707 ER). The accident involved 35 people—14 men, 10 women, 6 girls, and 5 boys. Sadly, 16 people lost their lives, and 17 others sustained various injuries. The injured were taken to Amudalat Hospital in Ibadan for treatment, while the bodies of the deceased were handed over to the Nigeria Police Force Divisional Office in Ibadan.

The second fatal crash occurred in Malo at 3:14 PM, involving a White Mazda Bus (DDA 733 XA). The crash was a result of wrongful overtaking, leading the driver to lose control of the vehicle. The incident involved 16 people—12 men, 3 women, and 1 girl. Tragically, 12 people lost their lives, while the remaining 4 male adults were rescued with injuries and taken to a hospital for treatment. The bodies of the deceased were deposited at FOS Morgue in Ipara.

In his statement, Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed urged all drivers and road users to adopt safe driving habits and strictly adhere to road traffic regulations. He reiterated the FRSC’s commitment to partnering with the Judiciary to ensure that drivers involved in fatal crashes face legal consequences, including the withdrawal of their licenses.

He also directed the immediate arrest and prosecution of the fleeing driver of the articulated vehicle involved in the Ibadan crash.

The FRSC remains dedicated to improving road safety and reducing the occurrence of preventable accidents on Nigeria’s roads.

RMAFC Chairman Commends President Tinubu on Local Government Autonomy, Hails Supreme Court Ruling

Maryam Aminu

The Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Muhammed Shehu Bello OFR, has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his pivotal role in securing the recent Supreme Court ruling affirming the autonomy of Local Government Councils in Nigeria.

This ruling, described by Bello as a “landmark achievement,” was praised during a sensitisation meeting with members of the Commission’s Board and management staff.

Bello highlighted the historical significance of local government autonomy, recalling a time when Local Government Chairmen wielded significant influence and contributed meaningfully to grassroots development.

He expressed strong support for the Supreme Court’s decision, emphasizing that the restoration of autonomy is crucial for the effective functioning of local governments across the country.

“This decision is very positive for the grassroots of Nigeria,” Bello said. “In the 1970s, local governments were so powerful that even former Federal Commissioners returned to contest for local government elections. Today, unfortunately, state governors determine the fate of local governments, a situation that must change.”

He further expressed confidence that the Supreme Court’s judgement would strengthen democratic governance and ensure better service delivery at the local level.

The meeting also featured an in-depth analysis by Barrister Mohammed Abdul, a constitutional law expert and consultant to the Commission.

Abdul elaborated on the legal implications of the Supreme Court ruling, which reinforces the financial independence and operational authority of local governments.

He stressed the need for adherence to this ruling by all tiers of government to promote transparency and accountability in grassroots administration.

Abdul also addressed the controversy surrounding the judgement, noting that while some state governors had resisted the implementation of local government autonomy, the Constitution clearly recognizes local governments as a distinct tier of government entitled to a share of federal revenue.

The meeting concluded with an interactive session, where members of the Commission discussed the impact of the ruling on fund allocation to local governments and the necessary steps to ensure compliance with the new legal framework.

In his closing remarks, Nwaze Joseph Okechukwu, Secretary to the Commission, reiterated RMAFC’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the full implementation of local government autonomy. He thanked the Chairman and Barrister Abdul for their insights and encouraged the Commission’s staff to apply the knowledge gained to promote better governance and equitable resource distribution across all tiers of government

Maryam Aminu

This ruling, described by Bello as a “landmark achievement,” was praised during a sensitisation meeting with members of the Commission’s Board and management staff.

He expressed strong support for the Supreme Court’s decision, emphasizing that the restoration of autonomy is crucial for the effective functioning of local governments across the country.

He further expressed confidence that the Supreme Court’s judgement would strengthen democratic governance and ensure better service delivery at the local level.

The meeting also featured an in-depth analysis by Barrister Mohammed Abdul, a constitutional law expert and consultant to the Commission.

Abdul elaborated on the legal implications of the Supreme Court ruling, which reinforces the financial independence and operational authority of local governments.

He stressed the need for adherence to this ruling by all tiers of government to promote transparency and accountability in grassroots administration.

NUC EXCITES MIU WITH ACCREDITATION APPROVAL

National Universities Commission (NUC) has recently granted full accreditation status to all the academic programmes of the Faculty of Management and Social Sciences that were visited in the last accreditation exercise. One of the academic programmes got interim approval. The approval was conveyed by the Report on Accreditation Academic Programmes in Nigerian Universities communicated to the University by the supervisory agency in a letter no. NUC/ES/412/VOL.14/361 dated 6th June, 2024.
The Pro Chancellor Eng. Abba, thanked the University management, especially the Head of Academics Prof. Alam Mahtab, for their effort in keeping to the standard of the University. He further urged them to continue the tempo so as to secure the full accreditation of all the other programmes in the next accreditation exercise coming up in October. The Academic programmes with full accreditation were the Departments of Accounting 84.2%, Finance 83%, Entrepreneurship 83.3% and Economics 92.6 %, while the Department of Public Administration had 73.3% getting interim approval. The Commission drew the attention of the University Management that academic programmes that obtained full accreditation status will be eligible for another accreditation exercise after five years, with interim status the programme will be eligible for accreditation after two years.
The National Universities Commission undertook the accreditation exercise from October to November 2023 after issuing the University with provisional license in 2021. This is the first accreditation exercise and the University garnered 80% which is highly commendable and kudos to the current Management and the University Proprietors.
Universities that are denied accreditation status will face immediate ban on students’ admission into such programmes, certificates issued to students admitted into the ban programmes will not be recognised and will be denied call-up into National Youth Service Corps scheme.

Renowned UNESCO Laureate, Aremu decorates Oyo Monarch with five stars Global Golden Medals

*Oyo State First Class Monarch Bags ICWLS’S
Golden Awards As “Most Notable and Top Distinguished King of the 21st Century”.

*VC CUICI, USA Commends Oba Sefiu Olawale Oyebola-Adeyeri III On Contributions To Nation-building.

UNESCO Laureate, Prof Sir B. Aremu has on Thursday decorated one of the first class Monarchs in Oyo State, Oba Sefiu Olawale Oyebola-Adeyeri III as “The Most Notable & Top Distinguished King of the 21st Century”, coupled with Five Stars Global Golden Medals and other Awards of the ICWLS.

Aremu in a statement made available to some group of Journalists by his Executive Assistant On Media, Publicity & Communication Matters, Comrade Sir Bieni Victor Emenike today being on Thursday, August 15 2024 in Asaba, Delta State capital, he congratulated Oba Sefiu Olawale Oyebola-Adeyeri III, the Monarch of Iseyin Kingdom Oyo State, Nigeria who was honored as “The Notable and Top Distinguished King of the 21st Century” and Fellowship Award with Five Stars Global Golden Awards by the International Chartered World Learned Society.

The statement reads in part: “I, UNESCO Laureate use this medium to congratulate Oba Iseyin Olawale Oyebola-Adeyeri III on this great feats. He has been conferred with ICWLS’s Global Golden Awards as the “Most Notable & Top Distinguished King of the 21st Century”. According to a letter addressed to Oba Sefiu Olawale Oyebola-Adeyeri III of Oyo State, Nigeria by Prof. Dr (Sir) S. R. Boselin Prabhu on behalf of the Society, the Oyo State First Class Monarch was recently conferred the awards by UNESCO Laureate, Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu, the World Grand President of the Society.”

The statement by UNESCO Laureate & VC CUICI, USA while congratulating the Monarch on his Global Golden Awards reads in parts: “Oba Sefiu Olawale Oyebola Adeyeri III, Ajirotutu I
Oba Sefiu Olawale Oyebola-Adeyeri Ill was born on 6th April, 1969 to the family of Prince Kareem Oladejo Oyebola and Princess Afusat Olabisi Oyebola of Eyinade Royal Compound of Akando, a Royal Lineage of Aseyin of Iseyinland”.

“Kabiyesi had his primary school education between 1975 and 1981 at St Paul Primary School, Idi-Iroko, Iseyin, Oyo State. He proceeded to Ekunle Community High School for his secondary school education between 1981 and 1987. During his secondary school education, Oba Sefiu was also an apprentice with Noble Photo, Ita Epo, Iseyin for his Photography training”.

“Having completed his secondary school education, Kabiesi Oba Sefiu proceeded to Oyo State Self Employment Integrated Scheme, Odo-Ogun, Iseyin from where he obtained Certificate of Participation in Practical Agriculture between 1987 and 1990”.

“After going through a lot in life as an Orphan who lost his caring mother at the age of 1l and his father shortly after, Oba Sefiu had certifications in Insurance, Indemnity and Risks, Real Estate Management, IT-Oracle Primevera and Business Management. He is currently running a degree programme in Business Administration from Ivytech College, Indiana, United State of America”.

“He worked briefly but with outstanding impacts at Gabax Cinema, Ojodu, Lagos as a manager. During his stay at the Cinema House, Aseyin Sefiu established additional two branches in Lagos.

“Precisely In March 17, 1995, Oba Aseyin established his own Photography Studio in Lagos. As an expert in Insurance, Indemnity and Risks, Aseyin worked with International Standard Insurance Company as a Sales Representative and his performances then accorded him The Best Sales Representative for three consecutive year; 1998, 1999 and 2000”.

“Also prominent among the Insurance Companies Aseyin Oyebola worked with was Allied Insurance Company with memorable records of meaningful contributions to the establishment goal. He also work with Cashcraft Assets Management”.

“Aseyin was a contractor in plumbing works under his sole proprietorship company. He was a contractor to national and international companies including Shell and NPC. He combined businesses with politics. His roles in the emergence of President Olusegun Obasanjo remained memorable especially at Kosofe Local Government where he served as The Secretary of People’s Democratic Party (PDP) that produced Obasanjo as President of Federal Republic of Nigeria in the 1999 general elections”.

“He secured visa to United State of America in March 11, 2002 and became a citizen of the country in 2017. Oba Oyebola was a consultant on Currency Gold. He owned a transportation company, Alphatop, that consulted for United Nation and United States of America. As a result of his passion for film production, Aseyin established Gracehill Movies Production. He is also the Chief Executive Officer of Gracehill Blocks Industry”.

“Aseyin of Iseyin was an advocate against Gun Violence in United States. He established TIMI PROJECT REVEAL as a Non-Governmental Organization to immortalize his preciously loving son who died in 2018. The initiative was to educate and empower young people against gun violence. He secured appointment as supervisor with United States Postal Service”

“(USPS), the position he held till his clarion call to fill the vacant stool of Aseyin of Iseyinland, Iseyin, Oyo State, Nigeria. His emergence as Aseyin led to his resignation from active service of USPS in October, 2023. Oba Oyebola is a Philanthropist of global recognition, an Entreprenuer of note and Contractor with integrity and pedigree”.

“Aseyin is happily married to Olori Mariam Oyebola and also blessed with a daughter Oluwaseyi Oyebola who is currently studying Medicine at the United States of America”.

“UNESCO Laureate, Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu is the the Vice Chancellor, Crown University International and World Acclaimed Distinguished Professor of Computer Science, Information and Communication Technology The World Grand President, International Chartered World Learned Society, World Grand Chairman , University of Nations for Quality Education, México and associates world wide, World Grand President, World Accreditation Commission, Chairman/Pro Chancellor, Board of Trustees, Chartered Intl. Da Vinci University, Vice President for International Affairs”.

“UNESCO Laureate is the Chairman Board of Trustees of West Coast Intl. University of Science, Technology, Management and Arts; Vice President International Affairs (Vice Chairman International Affairs of Board of Trustees) Sastra Angkor University Kingdom of Cambodia; Deputy Director General for Africa and Research Professor at International Biographical Centre in Cambridge, UK. He had also, held positions as a World Grand Chancellor, Chartered World Order of the Knights of Justice of Peace”.

“UNESCO Laureate is the World Grand President, The Chartered World Institute of Encyclopedia of Books, World Grand President at Africa International Institute for Professional Training and Research, ; Vice President, International Centre for Eye Research and Education, Argentina, South America , Recipient Award as a World Acclaimed Distinguished Research Professor Emeritus of University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria and Fellow Editorial International Advisory Board at Cambridge Scholars Publishing, United Kingdom and several other institutions that have declared him as a World Acclaimed Distinguished Professor by various higher institutions worldwide”.

Aremu noted that the recognitions were based on Oba Sefiu Olawale’s immense contributions to Iseyin Kingdom, Oyo State , Yoruba nation, Nigeria and global knowledge industry through entrepreneurship & higher education, philanthropic services and other activities as well .

According to the statement, the insignia of the awards included certificates, a muffler, a Global Golden medal, a global golden frame of five stars and other instruments of the society which were presented in recognition of “the avocation, enthusiasm and reputation” of the honouree.

While congratulating Dr Oba Sefiu Olawale Oyebola-Adeyeri on behalf of the World Grand Board of Directors, ICWLS, including Prof. Sir Sarfraz Lloyd of Oceania, Prof. Sir Abhiram Kukshreshtha of Asia, Prof. Sir M. Howard Pilley of Europe and Prof. Sir Luis Emilio Abad of the Americas, Aremu urged the recipient not to relent in his efforts of adding value to humanity.

According to Prof. Sir Aremu, who is also the Vice Chancellor Crown University Int’l Chartered Inc., in USA, Santa Cruz, Argentina with official partners constituent campuses worldwide and online operation, Oba Sefiu Olawale Oyebola-Adeyeri III is a shining example of diligence, excellence and competence from whom the present and future generations will continue to draw inspiration.

While responding to the presentation of the awards, Oba Sefiu Olawale Oyebola-Adeyeri III appreciated the World Grand President and the ICWLS Board of Directors for deeming him worthy of the honour.

He stressed that he considered the honour and dedicated it to the good people of Iseyin Kingdom, Oyo State, Nigeria and the rest of the world which he is privileged to serve and contribute to Nation-building, growth and development of humanity at large.

Int’l NGO appoints HRH Usman Nga Kupi as member National Traditional/Mayor Council, set to flag off National sanitation project

By Maryam Aminu

The World Sustainable Development Goals Organization-Nigeria has appointed the Garki Chief of the Municipal Area Council, FCT, Abuja, HRH (Dr) Usman Nga Kupi, the Sapeyi of Garki as member National Traditional/Mayor Council of the World Sustainable Development Goals Organization-Nigeria.

The appointment letter which was presented to him on Thursday, 15th of August, 2024 at his Palace in Garki by the Country Representative, H.E. Engr. Kolawole Rasheed Adenekan, alongside his delegation, brought hope to the rural dwellers as the tendencies of domesticating projects are high.

While speaking, the country representative, disclosed that there would be a flag off of a national environmental project aimed at goal 11 of the SDGs and there by metamorphosing into goal 3 of the SDGs on Saturday the 17th of August, 2024 in Abuja.

However, in the sphere of sustainable development, the involvement of various stakeholders is both transformative and indispensable. Among these stakeholders, traditional rulers hold a particularly pivotal role, anchored firmly in their communities and often revered as custodians of culture and social norms. The inclusion of such figures in initiatives aimed at global betterment should not only be encouraged but duly recognized. The significance of traditional leaders in accomplishing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a particular focus on the esteemed appointment of HRH. (Dr) Usman Nga Kupi, the Sapeyi of Garki, as a Member of the National Traditional/Mayor Council of the World Sustainable Development Goals Organization-Nigeria is a welcome development.

The country representative, H.E. Engr. Kolawole Rasheed Adenekan while speaking to the media on the appointed made, said, “traditional leaders, by virtue of their influence and respect within their communities, are uniquely positioned to catalyse progress towards the achievement of SDGs. In Nigeria, as in many parts of Africa and the world at large, such leaders are not just figureheads but play an active role in governance, especially at the local level. They often possess expansive knowledge about the social and economic networks within their communities, making them valuable assets in promoting grassroots development.

“The appointment of HRH. (Dr) Usman Nga Kupi echoes this sentiment and signifies a recognition of the symbiotic relationship between tradition and modernity in the pursuit of development. As a Member of the National Traditional/Mayor Council of the World Sustainable Development Goals Organization-Nigeria, His Royal Highness holds the responsibility of bridging the gap between high-level policy directives and on-the-ground realities.

“HRH. (Dr) Usman Nga Kupi’s appointment represents a sincere commitment to involving traditional rulers in the implementation of the SDGs. The World Sustainable Development Goals Organization-Nigeria has taken an admirable step in acknowledging that sustainable development requires adapting global initiatives to suit local contexts, a process in which traditional leaders are indispensable. HRH. (Dr) Usman Nga Kupi, instilled with both the knowledge of contemporary development challenges and the wisdom of traditional governance, embodies an innovative approach to achieving the SDGs at the community level.

“The Sapeyi of Garki, with his extensive experience and deep-rooted connections within the community, is tasked with not only endorsing the SDGs but actively engaging in strategic planning and execution of relevant programmes. His role is to ensure that the targets set by the SDGs seamlessly integrate into local development plans, respecting both the culture and the socioeconomic dynamics of the regions.

Community involvement is crucial to the successful implementation of development projects. Traditional rulers, such as HRH. (Dr) Usman Nga Kupi, can act as catalysts, invoking their influence to rally community support around the goals. They can also play a role in educating the populace about the importance of sustainable practices, thus fostering a supportive environment for the implementation of the SDGs.

“They do this not merely by virtue of their authority but through genuine engagement, understanding the needs of their people, and actively seeking solutions that align with sustainable development principles. As traditional and religious leaders are often the most respected figures in rural areas, their endorsement of projects and initiatives carries significant weight, paving the way for more effective policymaking and project execution

By promoting policies that reflect the ethos of the SDGs, traditional leaders can lead the charge in transforming resource management culture from one that is extractive to one that is conserving and regenerative. Furthermore, by advocating for fair and ethical practices, they can ensure that economic benefits derived from natural resources are equitably distributed among community member”, Adenekan added.

Int’l NGO appoints HRH Usman Nga Kupi as member National Traditional/Mayor Council

Maryam Aminu

In the sphere of sustainable development, the involvement of various stakeholders is both transformative and indispensable. Among these stakeholders, traditional rulers hold a particularly pivotal role, anchored firmly in their communities and often revered as custodians of culture and social norms. The inclusion of such figures in initiatives aimed at global betterment should not only be encouraged but duly recognized. The significance of traditional leaders in accomplishing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a particular focus on the esteemed appointment of HRH. (Dr) Usman Nga Kupi, the Sapeyi of Garki, as a Member of the National Traditional/Mayor Council of the World Sustainable Development Goals Organization-Nigeria is a welcome development.

DICON’s 60th Anniversary: A Call for Private Sector Investment and Local Manufacturing in Nigeria’s Defence Industry- Ned Nwoko

Maryam Aminu

The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) has successfully marked its 60th anniversary with a grand celebration that drew attention to the crucial role of private sector investment and local manufacturing in strengthening Nigeria’s defence industry.

The event, held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja, also served as the platform for the maiden Africa Defence Industries Conference (ADIC).

Speaking during the event, Senator Ned Munir Nwoko, a prominent member of the Senate Committee on Defence, highlighted the vast potential of Nigeria’s defence sector to drive economic growth.

As the Chief Book Launcher at the event, Senator Nwoko stressed the importance of harnessing the nation’s resources to develop a robust defence industry, echoing the sentiment that this sector could become a significant driver of Nigeria’s economy, much like oil, gas, and banking.

“Nigeria’s defence sector is a global powerhouse in the making, with the potential to rival other key economic sectors if properly harnessed,” said Senator Nwoko.

He urged for substantial investments and active private sector participation, asserting that the responsibility should not rest solely on the government.

The Senator emphasized the critical need for local production and manufacturing within the defence sector.

“We have the capacity and the financial resources to make our defence industry as profitable as any other sector in Nigeria,” he noted.

Sen. Nwoko further called on the government to support specialized companies through licensing and approval processes, while also promoting public awareness to attract investment, create jobs, and reduce reliance on imports.

The Senator in a show of commitment to the future of the Nigerian defence industry, made a significant announcement of rewarding the top three contestants with AI-assisted technological business ideas for the sector with the sum of $10,000 each.

This initiative underscores the ongoing efforts to foster innovation, drive economic growth, and build a stronger, self-reliant Nigeria.

As the event came to a close, the consensus was clear: unlocking the full potential of local manufacturing and private sector investment in Nigeria’s defence industry is not just an aspiration but a necessity for the nation’s future.

Presidency Condemns Chinese Company’s Attempt to Seize Nigerian Assets Abroad

Emmanuel Daudu

The Presidency has condemned the ongoing attempts by Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Co. Limited, a Chinese company, to seize Nigerian government assets overseas through what it described as “subterfuge and unorthodox means.”

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in a press statement he signed and made available to journalists on Thursday in Abuja, expressed that the Federal Government has emphasized that it is not under any contractual obligation with Zhongshan Fucheng.

The dispute, which the Chinese company is exploiting to target Nigeria’s assets, is between Zhongshan and the Ogun State Government.

The government highlighted that the Ogun State Government has been working diligently towards an amicable resolution of the matter. However, it firmly asserted that Zhongshan has no legitimate grounds for demanding restitution from Ogun State based on a 2007 contract to manage a free-trade zone.

He noted that the contract was revoked in 2015, when the company had only managed to erect a perimeter fence on the land designated for the project.

Despite ongoing efforts by the Ogun State Government and the Attorney-General of the Federation to resolve the issue, Zhongshan has pursued a series of legal maneuvers, including obtaining two orders from the Judicial Court of Paris on March 7, 2024, and August 12, 2024.

The Nigerian government insists that these orders were secured without proper notice to either the Federal Government or Ogun State, characterizing the company’s actions as part of a broader strategy to unjustly seize Nigerian assets abroad.

The Nigerian government accused Zhongshan of withholding vital information and misleading the Paris court into wrongfully attaching presidential jets undergoing routine maintenance in France, which are protected by diplomatic immunity.

Furthermore, the Presidency noted that Zhongshan has previously tried and failed to enforce its questionable judgment in both the United Kingdom and the United States.

The company is alleged to have sold its judgment to a venture capitalist aiming to profit by embarrassing the Federal Government and President Bola Tinubu.

The Nigerian government assured its citizens that it is working closely with the Ogun State Government to overturn the “frivolous” court order in Paris.

It reiterated its commitment to protecting national assets from predators and Shylocks who masquerade themselves as investors