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Hardship: Govs Agree to Dismantle Illegal Road Blocks, Multiple Taxes

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Governors of the 36 states of the federation have agreed to dismantle illegal road blocks and multiple taxes across the country.

They made the resolution after a meeting of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) in Abuja, which ended early Thursday.

The governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who read the communique at the end of the meeting, said the governors resolved to dismantle illegal road blocks and multiple taxes, which they said contributed to food inflation in the country.

The communique was signed by NGF Chairman and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.

It read, “The forum received a briefing from the National Security Adviser (NSA), accompanied by the Honourable Ministers of Defence, Agriculture, Livestock Development, and Transportation, on the rising cost of food and livestock transportation across the country.

“The presentation revealed that the proliferation of checkpoints, illegal taxation, and poor infrastructure are key contributors to price inflation and inefficiencies in the food supply chain.

“The NSA noted that a high-level inter-ministerial committee has been established to address these concerns and has submitted its recommendations for the endorsement of the forum.

“Governors acknowledged the urgency of the matter and expressed commitment to collaborate with federal authorities to streamline levies, dismantle unauthorized checkpoints, and improve the movement of goods across states.”

The NSA, Nuhu Ribadu, declined comments on the outcome of the meeting with the governors.

The emergency session came at a time of heightened insecurity in several parts of the country, with increasing calls for both federal and state authorities to take coordinated action.

Chuks Okocha in Abuja Governors of the 36 states of the federation have agreed to dismantle illegal road blocks and multiple taxes across the country. They made the resolution after

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Oye Exits as NACCIMA President, OPSN Chairman

•Lauds FG, Tinubu, trade minister, NACCIMA members, others

Dike Onwuamaeze

After two years as National President of Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), and six months leading the Organised Private Sector of Nigeria (OPSN), Hon. Dele Kelvin Oye has taken a bow.

Oye leaves behind a bold and indelible legacy of unprecedented growth and visionary leadership that have reshaped the private sector and set it on the path of sustainable development and global competitiveness.

A press statement from the NACCIMA secretariat said since assuming office in June 2023, Oye had been championing private sector growth and reform in Nigeria, leveraging his vast experience, networks and expertise to drive meaningful dialogue, unlock investment opportunities, and reposition NACCIMA as a key player in economic policy formulation and national development.

The secretariat said Oye’s achievements included the unification of private sector voices under a cohesive advocacy platform, expansion of NACCIMA’s membership base, promotion of trade facilitation policies, such as Single Trade Window, and successful international business missions that attracted significant investment interest in Nigeria.

Known for his unifying approach, Oye brought together fragmented private sector groups, especially in his role as OPSN chair, forging cohesive policy positions that amplified the voice of the organised private sector in national economic discourse.

In a valedictory note highlighting his achievements, challenges, and strategies for navigating the dynamic landscape of Nigeria’s business environment, Oye commended the federal government, President Bola Tinubu, Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, leaders and members of NACCIMA, the media, and other stakeholders for their support throughout his two-year tenure.

Oye stated, “Taking on the role of NACCIMA President on June 8, 2023, I encountered a myriad of challenges, internally and externally.

“At the internal level, there was unusual unhealthy competition amongst chambers, such as economic fluctuations, regulatory hurdles, and a fragmented private sector landscape. While daunting, these challenges spurred the radical changes that our association and its members urgently required.”

He added, “We witnessed a surge in NACCIMA’s membership, underscoring increasing confidence in our advocacy and collaborative endeavours.

“Through close collaboration with government stakeholders, we supported the government in the launching of initiatives like the campaign for the Single Trade Window Policy, aimed at enhancing trade efficiency.

“As Chair of OPSN over the past six months, I have prioritised the creation of cohesive policy positions among various private sector groups, resulting in orderly and effective advocacy.

“Our business missions successfully showcased Nigeria as an attractive destination for investment, culminating in discussions that potential investment inflow exceeding several billion dollars.”

Oye identified confronting Nigeria’s economic instability, characterised by high inflation and diminished industrial capacity, as among the challenges he encountered.

He stated, “I sought to transform these challenges into opportunities. Through constructive engagement with government entities, we facilitated the establishment of frameworks prioritizing cooperation over conflict.

“My leadership has concentrated not only on immediate gains but also on encouraging the long-term sustainability of Nigeria’s business sector.”

According to him, “Feedback from our members reveals that NACCIMA has become a more vocal and engaged participant in economic discussions, enabling members to thrive in a competitive landscape.

“Initiatives, such as financial literacy campaigns through our partnership with the Bank of Industry and capacity-building programmes for MSMEs, have empowered numerous businesses.”

He recommended investment in tech-driven solutions for agricultural processing and maintaining strong partnerships with the government to create conducive business environment.

Oye said, “NACCIMA should leverage its substantial network of over 100 chambers of commerce to stimulate targeted collaborations across industries, enhancing competitiveness while promoting innovation.

“The past two years have been transformative for NACCIMA. Our collective efforts have set the stage for ongoing engagement, growth, and evolution within Nigeria’s private sector.

“I extend my deepest gratitude to everyone; my colleagues at the secretariat, our patron, Mr. Rufai Mohammed, and all our national live vice presidents, my colleagues at the OPSN, the newly elected president of NACCIMA and chairman OPSN, Mr. Jani Ibrahim; and the 2025-27 executive committee and council, my colleagues at Oduaccima, Ekiti Chambers of Commerce – on whose platform I was elected in June 2023 – and to everyone who has been involved in this journey together. Let us continue to break barriers and achieve new heights.”

At the heart of Oye’s mission was a steadfast commitment to supporting the growth of Nigerian businesses, particularly micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), the backbone of the national economy.

He ensured that NACCIMA, during his time, served as a true enabler of enterprise, opening new pathways for thousands of entrepreneurs across Nigeria.

•Lauds FG, Tinubu, trade minister, NACCIMA members, others Dike Onwuamaeze After two years as National President of Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), and six

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Tinubu: Infrastructure Development a Good Investment for the People

•FCT collects 1% of FG’s allocation from Federation Account, says Wike

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has assured that his administration will continue to invest in critical infrastructure, including roads, bridges, housing, transportation, education, and healthcare, saying infrastructure development is a good investment for the people. Tinubu stated this yesterday at the official commissioning of the newly constructed Collected Road CN2 (Zakari A. Kyari Street) in Mabushi.

The president, represented by Deputy Speaker House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, expressed commitment to ensuring that every Nigerian felt the impact of good governance. He added that his administration will continue to work to deliver infrastructure projects that will enhance the citizens’ quality of life.

Tinubu urged residents of Mabushi, Katampe, and surrounding areas to protect and preserve the road, saying the federal government will dedicate the road to the youth, workers, and families who will benefit from it, with the hope that it will significantly improve their daily lives.

Tinubu said, “This project reflects our administration’s commitment to urban development and improving the quality of life for our citizens. We believe that infrastructure development is critical to national growth and development.

“I commend the Honourable Minister of the FCT and his team for prioritizing infrastructure delivery,”

Speaking earlier, FCT minister, Nyesom Wike, said the FCT was not rich, as what it collected from the federation account monthly was one percent of what the federal government got.

Wike stated, “So, assuming that the federal government gets N800 billion every month, one percent of N800 billion is N8 billion. And that N8 billion is not enough to pay salaries. Our salary today is not less than N13 billion because of the minimum wage increase.

“So, if we only depend on one percent of what the federal government gets every month, it means that we can only increase salaries, not to talk about carrying out infrastructure. And that’s why we’re very aggressive in saying you cannot enjoy this free of charge. You have to pay.”

The minister stated that the value of the land around the project, which was completed within eight to nine months, would now be growing at N200-N300 million, and with the people benefiting from it.

•FCT collects 1% of FG’s allocation from Federation Account, says Wike Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja President Bola Tinubu has assured that his administration will continue to invest in critical infrastructure,

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Wale Edun: President Has Received Tax Reform Bills for Assent

•Oyedele seeks fiscal transformation, wants national interest to override sectional self-interest in policy-making

James Emejo in Abuja

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, yesterday, disclosed that the four key tax reform bills had been transmitted to President Bola Tinubu for his assent.

The development marks a major milestone in efforts to reform both the tax and fiscal environments.

Edun said the bills were formally delivered to the president by the National Assembly on Tuesday.

He gave the hint during the 50th birthday lecture of Chairman, Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele.

He said, “It was, I think, yesterday (Tuesday) that it was finally delivered to Mr. President by the National Assembly for him to sign off on the four tax reform bills,” describing the moment as critical in the current administration’s reform agenda.

The minister said the bills, once signed into law, were expected to significantly improve the efficiency and fairness of Nigeria’s tax system, while nearly doubling the country’s tax-to-GDP ratio, which remains among the lowest globally.

He said, “There is still hard work to be done in efficiently implementing the bills that have been passed. But they promise to change the fiscal landscape.”

The minister praised Tinubu’s persistence in steering the tax reform process through challenging times.

“Mr. President knew the value of those four tax reform bills and kept going through thick and thin, through turbulence and through wind. He just kept going, supporting you (Oyedele),” Edun stated.

According to him, the fiscal reforms championed by the committee are central to Tinubu’s goal of lifting millions of Nigerians out of poverty.

He pointed to strategic areas, such as agriculture, infrastructure (including digital infrastructure), and access to finance as sectors targeted for inclusive growth.

Edun credited Oyedele’s expertise and communication skills for making the reforms broadly accessible.

He said, “You had the grace, the gift of being able to take a complex subject, and time after time, tirelessly break it down and simplify it for all types of audiences—the high, the low, the knowledgeable, the less knowledgeable.

“And that’s why we have today success in terms of a proposal for proposed bills that are now ready for Mr. President to sign into law.”

The minister said the reforms will introduce a fairer, more transparent tax system aligned with global best practices.

He said, “They will give greater fairness. They will give clarity. They will give ease of administration, best practice around the world. And ultimately, they’ll give more revenue for government so that the legitimate demands of our people can be met in social services, health, education, and basic infrastructure.”

The minister referenced Oyedele’s impact on public attitudes toward taxation.

He said, “You went out and you saw and heard from people that they didn’t feel they were in any way obliged to pay tax. You have worked tirelessly to help change people’s perspective on that.”

He added that voluntary compliance played a crucial role in the effectiveness of tax policies.

In his remarks, Oyedele offered a critical perspective on the country’s economic environment, adding that regulatory bottlenecks and tariff burdens are equivalent to granting tax waivers to a few, while discouraging investment and productivity.

He said, “Addressing our tariffs and regulatory hurdles is the equivalent of granting waiver from all income and consumption taxes. We also need fiscal reforms to complement a strong and stable Naira, such as payments of all taxes in Naira.”

He maintained that the work of the committee was far from finished, and called for a downward revision of corporate tax rates to attract new investments and stimulate economic expansion.

Oyedele warned that high tax rates, especially in an inflationary environment, amounted to taxing capital instead of profit.

He said the country must also resolve issues of regulatory overreach and embrace digitisation as part of its economic reform package.

“We must refine our tariff system to reduce the rates on raw materials and intermediate products, which currently are twice the average for sub-Saharan Africa,” Oyedele said.

He cautioned the elite to resist the temptation of simplistic solutions in public policy debates.

He said, “The elite must apply more intellectual rigour in policy debates, challenge long-held theoretical beliefs and question assumptions within context. We must avoid crowd-pleasing analysis because after the applause, the pain remains.”

Offering practical advice to government, Oyedele suggested that public institutions should only carry out tasks that the private sector could not do, and should do so efficiently, collecting the least amount of tax necessary to meet basic public service standards.

He also spoke to the need for quality, non-inflationary spending by government, urging greater prudence and planning in fiscal policy implementation.

According to him, ordinary Nigerians must also rise to the responsibility of civic participation.

He said, “The people must seek first to understand—ignorance compounds vulnerability and steals opportunities. We must think independently, ask questions, engage, and criticise constructively with the sole aim to build, not tear apart, our country.”

The lecture served as both a personal tribute to Oyedele and a broader reflection on Nigeria’s path to sustainable development through fiscal responsibility, tax reform, and inclusive governance.

Oyedele called for lower corporate tax rates, in addressing regulatory overage, and refining tariff systems to stimulate investment and economic growth.

He highlighted the need for an orderly tax system to avoid chaotic taxes that disproportionately impact the poor.

He said the tax reform measures included full income tax exemption for over a third of workers, higher exemption thresholds for small businesses, and zero-rating essential consumptions.

He also emphasised the importance of credible data, inclusive policies, and investing in people. He highlighted the need to refine the tariff system to reduce rates on raw materials and intermediate products to lower input costs.

Oyedele said, “We have priority sector incentives, boosting exports and providing tax relief to prevent public transition for Nigerian businesses operating internationally. Others are changes to income class laws to attract remote work opportunities, enabling Nigerian youths to thrive in the digital economy.”

He stressed the need to make policies for a strong and stable Naira, such as allowing businesses to pay taxes in Naira, despite having a comparative trade balance.

He lamented that the tax system in Nigeria suffered from archaic laws, complex administrative structure, low tax morale, and widespread evasion.

•Oyedele seeks fiscal transformation, wants national interest to override sectional self-interest in policy-making James Emejo in Abuja Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, yesterday,

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June 20, 2025
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Bill Gates, Tijani, Ribadu Lead Other Experts to FIN-Web Conference on AI, Cybersecurity, Tech Innovation at Silicon Valley

Renowned American philanthropist, business mogul and Co-Founder of Microsoft, Bill Gates; Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani; National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; and Director-General/CEO of National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kachifu Abdullahi, will lead other distinguished experts to FIN-Web Conference and AI Expo 2025 scheduled for October.

The prestigious event will afford the experts the opportunity to brainstorm on Artificial Intelligence (AI), cybersecurity and tech innovation.

The summit will take place at the Computer History Museum in Silicon Valley, California, between October 1 and 3.

That was disclosed in a statement signed by FIN’s Director Strategic Communication, United Kingdom, Mr. Ayo Ayeni, and made available to journalists on Thursday.

According to the organisers, the invited speakers for the event include Gavin Newsom, Governor of California; Eric Schmidt, former CEO of Google; Bill Gates, Co-Founder of Microsoft; Dr Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications and Digital Economy; and Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, National Security Adviser (NSA).

Others are Kachifu Abdullahi, Director-General/CEO of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA); Jensen Huang, founder and CEO of NVIDIA; Paul O’Sullivan, SVP at Salesforce; Karan Shah, Data Science Director at Meta; and Abdullah Alswaha, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Saudi Arabia.

The statement added that speakers who confirmed participation for the event included Sabeer Bhatia, Co-founder of Hotmail; Mark Minevich, AI strategist, investor, and futurist, President of Going Global Ventures. USA; HE Badria Al Mulla, Chairperson of International Emirates Business Group (IeBG) to lead the UAE delegation; Chetan Dube, Founder of IPsoft; USA; Mr. Prabhav Sharma, Private Equity and Venture Capital Investor, USA; Dr. Nizar Ben Neji, ICT Expert & Strategist and Minister of Communication Technologies of Tunisia.

Others were Andreas Deutschmann, former, MD J.P Morgan USA; Michael Kim, Founder and CEO of AQUATRON; USA; Reginald Mbawuike, Co-Founder/Managing Director at Generating Innovation Ventures & Enterprises, Inc. Harvard University; Mr. Wayne Ronhaar, CEO & Co-founder, Cylentium Inc; Nagy Moustafa CEO of Infosec Global; Mehdi Paryavi Chairman, International Data Center Authority (IDCA); Temi Olufisibe Labor, Deputy Head of Internal Audit, Chief Financial Officer, Wio Bank, Dubai UAE and Joe Weiss PE, CISM, CRISC, Emeritus Managing Director ISA99, USA.

On the uniqueness of the event, the organisers disclosed that the premier event of FinWebConference 2025 will bring together industry leaders, innovators, investors, and thought leaders from across the globe to explore the latest advancements in finance, artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, and digital transformation.

With an expected turnout of top-tier executives, government representatives, and cutting-edge tech entrepreneurs, FinWebConference 2025 will serve as a unique platform for forging new partnerships, discussing emerging trends, and securing investment opportunities.

Key Highlights of FinWebConference 2025:

●Dynamic Keynote Speakers: Hear from industry leaders, policymakers, and experts who are shaping the future of technology and finance. Notable speakers include Doreen Bogdan-Martin, ITU Secretary-General, as well as experts from AI, cybersecurity, fintech, and policy sectors.

●AI & Cybersecurity Focus: Special sessions dedicated to AI innovation, cybersecurity advancements, and their intersection with finance. The conference will host workshops, panel discussions, and hands-on demonstrations of the latest technologies.

●Startup Pitch Zone: Entrepreneurs and startups will have the opportunity to showcase their cutting-edge solutions to a panel of investors, with the chance to win support, partnerships, and funding.

●Exclusive Networking: Attendees will have access to exclusive networking sessions designed to connect tech innovators with investors, industry leaders, and government officials.

●Exhibition & Sponsorship: A range of exhibitors and sponsors, including leading tech companies, financial institutions, and government agencies, will showcase their innovations and discuss new collaboration opportunities.

The statement further disclosed that the FinWebConference 2025 was a landmark event bringing together finance, technology, and innovation.

The conference will provide attendees with access to the most cutting-edge knowledge and solutions in the world of AI, cybersecurity, fintech, and investment opportunities.

With its vibrant exhibition space, interactive sessions, and prestigious speakers, FinWebConference 2025 is set to be the event of the year for tech and finance professionals, the statement said.

The conference will feature various topics, including:

●The Future of Technology: AI, Ethics & Impact

●Investing in Innovation: VC Trends & Founder Insights

●The Road to Net Zero: Tech’s Role in the transition to a Sustainable Future

●AI in Healthcare: Diagnostics, Digital Therapeutics, and Health Data Privacy

●Cybersecurity: Zero Trust Architecture, AI-Driven Threat Detection, and Ransomware Defense and among other topics.

The organisers further disclosed that the event will afford the participants the following benefits:

●Expand Your Network: Meet global leaders from the finance, tech, and policy sectors.

●Gain Industry Insights: Learn from top experts and discover the latest trends.

●Explore Investment Opportunities: Connect with investors looking to fund the next big innovation in tech and finance.

●Discover New Technologies: Experience firsthand the latest in AI, cybersecurity, and digital transformation.

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UK Reaffirms Commitment to Nigeria with 99% Duty-Free Access Under DCTS

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The United Kingdom (UK) has confirmed that Nigeria will continue to enjoy duty-free access on 99% of total goods exported to the UK market under the Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS).

The DCTS is part of the UK’s strategy to support growing economies like Nigeria by reducing tariffs on thousands of goods, simplifying export rules for Nigerian businesses and making it easier to qualify for trade benefits.

The scheme lowers import cost for UK businesses and offers consumers a wider range of affordable products.

Since its launch in June 2023, the Developing Countries Trading Scheme allows Nigeria and 36 other African countries to export over 3,000 products duty-free or at reduced tariffs to the UK, supporting Nigerian businesses to grow and become more competitive on the global stage.

Through the DCTS, Nigerian exporters can sell key goods like cocoa, yam, tomatoes, plantain, shrimp, and other agricultural products to the UK at reduced tariffs.

The scheme also supports processed and value-added products like cocoa paste and cocoa butter, sesame and palm oil, cashew nuts, cotton clothing, and cocoa paste, helping Nigeria move beyond raw materials exports.

Commenting on the DCTS, British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery, said: “As one of the UK’s most important partners in Africa, Nigeria stands at the heart of the UK’s global trade ambitions, and we want to strengthen the trade ties between our two great nations and unlock the power of sustainable and transformative growth in Nigeria and across emerging economies.

“A major advantage of the UK’s developing countries trading scheme is the reduction or complete elimination of duty-tariffs on everyday goods such as cashew nuts, cocoa, cotton, plantain, tomatoes, prawns, and sesame.

“This isn’t just about improved access into the UK market, it’s about building a fairer, freer global trading system that supports economic growth and job creation, both in developing countries and in the UK.”

Speaking further, Dr. Montgomery added: “Through the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP) we are continuing to work alongside the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment (FMITI) to tackle export challenges and ensure the DCTS is fully leveraged by Nigerian businesses to improve trade growth between our two countries.”

This trade framework is part of a wider UK effort to build strong economic ties across the world, with recent trade agreements also signed with major economies like India and the United States.

Michael Olugbode in Abuja The United Kingdom (UK) has confirmed that Nigeria will continue to enjoy duty-free access on 99% of total goods exported to the UK market under the

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June 20, 2025
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Tinubu and Sanwo-Olu: Reading the Room

withLanre Alfred

I knew it. I absolutely knew it.

When I wrote “The Man Who Carried a City”, the biography of Governor BabajideOlusolaSanwo-Olu in celebration of his 60th birthday, the calls started pouring in almost immediately. Some were polite, most were not. Politicians, corporate bigwigs, even career sycophants with no skin in the game, everyone suddenly found their voice. They wanted to know what I was thinking, why I would risk such public affection on a man supposedly estranged from his political godfather, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. One very senior political jobber even called me in the middle of the night to ask, genuinely perplexed: “Don’t you read the mood of the room anymore?”

But I had read the room. Very well, in fact. And I understood the subtext most of them were ignoring: this wasn’t a Shakespearean tragedy, it was a temporary chill between two men whose bond ran far deeper than the average political alliance.

So, when news broke this weekend that President Tinubu had publicly and unequivocally declared all was forgiven, that “it’s all over now,” I didn’t feel vindicated, I felt quietly satisfied. The reunion wasn’t just inevitable, it was always written in the politics and the personal history they share.

Let’s be honest. Anyone who truly understands Lagos politics knows that Tinubu and Sanwo-Olu have always had the kind of dynamic that defies linear political analysis. Tinubu, the legendary political architect of modern Lagos, and Sanwo-Olu, the quiet but brilliant technocrat who rose from obscurity to become one of the most effective governors the state has seen. Their journey together has always been more familial than transactional.

Yes, there were whispers. Yes, there was the moment at the Lagos-Calabar Highway commissioning when the President appeared to bypass Sanwo-Olu without a handshake. Yes, there were events in Lagos where the state’s chief executive was conspicuously absent. But even then, I was certain that this was a momentary frost, not a full-blown winter.

Because I have watched Sanwo-Olu too closely to be fooled. I have studied the man, not just as a subject of biography, but as a specimen of Lagosian grit and governance. And more importantly, I have observed Tinubu long enough to understand that he is not one to allow emotion get in the way of strategic reconciliation. This is a man who forgives like a general—pragmatically, and with foresight.

So, when the GAC, the Lagos State Governor’s Advisory Council, met with Tinubu in Ikoyi this weekend to plead on behalf of Sanwo-Olu, I imagine the President wasn’t hearing new arguments. He was merely being given the right opportunity to do what he had probably already decided: forgive and move forward.

And forgive he did—with the kind of magnanimity that only Tinubu can deliver. “It’s all over now. All is forgiven.” No hedging. No ambiguity.

In response, Sanwo-Olu and members of the GAC prostrated before him.A symbolic gesture, yes, but one heavy with Lagos political tradition. It was the public performance of something I suspect had already occurred in private.

What will the purveyors of discord say now? What will the profiteers of division do? Those who had peddled stories of irreparable rift, who tried to offer their loyalties like unsolicited dowries to either side, where will they pitch their tents now?

Shame to bad people. The hatchet has been buried. And thank God it has.

And let me say this without an ounce of apology: Governor BabajideSanwo-Olu absolutely deserved “The Man Who Carried a City”. That book was not a political stunt. It was a tribute to vision, courage, and performance. Regardless of anyone’s personal interpretation of the temperature between him and Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu’s achievements are self-evident.

This is a man who steered Lagos through one of its most volatile moments, COVID-19. While other governors floundered, Sanwo-Olu became the face of calm leadership. He was visible, he was firm, and above all, he was compassionate. Lagos didn’t just survive the pandemic; it adapted, evolved, and even expanded under his watch.

Under his administration, Lagos saw historic infrastructural expansions—from the Blue and Red rail lines to the digitization of the judiciary and education sectors. Have you seen the revamped Yaba? The new Lekki?The Eco-Friendly Terminal in Oshodi? These are not minor projects. These are legacies.

More than that, Sanwo-Olu’s Lagos is a city that’s trying to remember its human side. Investments in primary healthcare, access to education, inclusive housing projects—he’s managed to combine a megacity vision with grassroots accessibility.

And let’s not forget his firm but measured handling of the post-#EndSARS chaos. That moment could have consumed lesser men. But Sanwo-Olu did not retreat from his responsibilities. He took the hits—some fair, many unfair—and kept his eyes on governance. That is the measure of a man who truly carries a city.

So, when people told me that I had made a mistake by gifting the governor a biography at 60, I simply told them: you don’t bury light just because the skies are cloudy. I stood by my decision, knowing that the temporary misalignment between mentor and mentee would soon be corrected. And here we are today.

Let us now talk about the politics of perception. Many people fail to understand that silence in politics is often louder than noise. Neither Tinubu nor Sanwo-Olu ever publicly denounced each other. At worst, there were cryptic gestures—an overlooked handshake here, a missing name there. But no harsh words. No scorched-earth interviews. That restraint, that discipline, is what kept the bridge intact, even as stormy waters flowed underneath.

What we witnessed this weekend was not just a personal reconciliation, it was the affirmation of a shared vision. Lagos is too important to Nigeria, and both men know it. Their collaboration isn’t just political theatre—it is a functional necessity for Nigeria’s economic and political stability.

I am personally happy, immensely so, that this reunion has finally happened. The politics of division may be entertaining for some, but for those of us who care about leadership and legacy, reconciliation is always the better headline.

As we look forward, I am confident that the renewed camaraderie between Tinubu and Sanwo-Olu will yield even more progress for Lagos. There is now room for deeper alignment, more ambitious governance, and fewer distractions from naysayers and political opportunists.

To those who sneered at me for writing “The Man Who Carried a City”, I say: you read the moment, but I read the men. And I’ll always place my bet on conviction over convenience.

BabajideSanwo-Olu remains one of the most accomplished governors Lagos has seen in recent memory, and I am proud to have documented part of his journey. Now that he has re-secured the blessing of his godfather and mentor, there’s no telling how much more Lagos stands to gain.

Indeed, you may carry a city, but the real task is to never let it fall. Sanwo-Olu hasn’t let Lagos fall. He has lifted it—steadily, patiently, and with quiet dignity.

And now, with President Tinubu’s forgiveness and renewed camaraderie, he’s about to lift it even higher.

Let the cynics eat their hearts out. Lagos moves forward.

withLanre Alfred I knew it. I absolutely knew it. When I wrote “The Man Who Carried a City”, the biography of Governor BabajideOlusolaSanwo-Olu in celebration of his 60th birthday, the

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Gautier Mignot: In the Ongoing War Between Russia and Ukraine, Russia is the Aggressor

The recent 2025 European Day celebration did not come and go without leaving on its trails some notes for file. But to cap this and give it meaning was the European Union (EU) Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, who spoke to Michael Olugbodeon many issues, including the importance of Nigeria to Europe, the drive to have more skilled Nigerians going to work in Europe and developing the human capital of Africa’s most populous nation, among others. Excerpts:

What’s the essence of the European Day being celebrated in May?

Every year, we celebrate Europe Day on the 9th of May because we commemorate what was the starting point of the European integration process that led to the European Union as it is today. It was on the 9th of May 1950 that the so-called Schuman Declaration was proclaimed, which was the first offer by the then French foreign minister to other countries in Europe to launch into this integration process.

It was accepted at the time by five other countries and there were six founding member states. So, this year we are celebrating 75 years of the Schuman Declaration. We decided to do a whole Europe month with different activities, in particular with media engagements, but also with universities. We were in Sokoto also these last few days with nine member states ambassadors.

We have joint activities with our member states, and also because in the current geopolitical context, we think it’s very important to reaffirm what we stand for in Europe and remind our citizens and the world what is the significant of the European integration. Also, we want to engage more with Nigeria and to explain to Nigerian people who we are and what is the purpose of the stronger partnership we want to build.

What are the reasons for the celebration, especially in terms of achievements?

Well, if you look back to 75 years ago, Europe was still very much in ruins after World War II. We thought we were on the verge of a third world war. We just didn’t know what to do with Germany, which had been defeated and divided.

And this Schumer Declaration and this European integration process were really a turning point where we launched into a completely new kind of relationship in Europe, breaking with the former century of relations based on domination, rivalry, power politics, to go into a relationship of cooperation, of equal partnership, of shared sovereignty. The result is tremendous.

Today, a war between our member states is just unthinkable. We went from six founding member states to 27 today. We have 450 million inhabitants, a GDP comparable to the US or China. We are leading in trade of goods and services. We have a society based on free economy and market economy, but also on civil liberties and on social inclusion, which is very attractive.

We have a region attracting more tourists, students, migrants. And we have eight member states, eight candidate members, candidate countries, which want to become members of the European Union.

Our model is attractive. It’s a success. Of course, it has also its shortcomings and weaknesses and challenges that we want to address. But I think we can be proud of what we’ve achieved over these 75 years. And we want also to offer, to propose to the rest of the world, to follow a little bit the same recipe that has made this success for us, based on cooperation.

Talking about war in Europe. There’s an ongoing one between Ukraine and Russia. Where has this left the EU?

Of course, it’s a war, which actually is rather an aggression by Russia against Ukraine. None of them are members of the European Union. Ukraine is a candidate country now. And with Russia, we have tried during decades to engage in the same kind of relationship of shared prosperity, of cooperation.

But the Russians have always rejected this approach. They have always insisted on power politics, and trying to dominate, undermine, occupy the neighbours, until this full-scale invasion of Ukraine. So it’s not only disrupting European security, and with Russia trampling all the treaties it had signed, to solemnly promise to respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

In 1991, when the USSR broke down, and Ukraine became an independent country, with Russia on its side. But it also disrupts the world order and the world supply chains, especially in food, fertilizers, etc. So it has very serious consequences, and this is why we are unwavering in our support to Ukraine, to resist this invasion, and to uphold the principles of the UN Charter, of international law.

And we think that it’s only on this basis that a just and lasting peace can be found. So, there are efforts to engage in serious negotiations. Unfortunately, Russia hasn’t shown any sign of willingness to engage seriously in peace negotiations.

Do you see an end to this war?

All wars end one day or the other. And the question is, on which basis, and if it’s a lasting peace or not. We knew this very well in Europe. We had the First World War, and we only had 20 years of peace, until another, even more brutal World War came. So you have to build solid pieces, a solid foundation for that.

So, yes, the question is, when will Russia realise, and probably under the pressure of others, that’s why the pressure by all the international community is so important; that they have to resist, they have to respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. At the end of the day, any settlement must be freely negotiated by Ukraine itself. That’s the concept of sovereignty.

Is there a time the EU will feel that this war is a success?

I mean, this war will never be a success. This war is a terrible thing happening to Ukraine first and to the world. So it’s a crime against the planet, because it’s wasting dozens and dozens of billions of dollars. Without speaking of human lives, of course, which are the most important, but it’s also wasting so much money that could be used for better causes– for fighting poverty, for sustainable development, climate change, adaptation, mitigation, etc.

However, this war will be a success if the principles of the UN Charter are upheld. Sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the prohibition of use of force against your neighbours. I think Ukraine has already successfully resisted.

Remember that Putin thought that in three days he would conquer Ukraine. It’s been three years now, and he has already advanced. So, from a military point of view, the Ukrainians can say that they have contained this invasion to some part, but still more or less one-fifth of the territory is occupied by Russia illegally. So, we have to uphold international law. That is very important.

Expectedly, the US President has stepped in with some proposals. What is the EU saying concerning these proposals by President Trump?

We think that any goodwill effort towards peace is welcome. But again, we shouldn’t be ingenious. To negotiate peace, you must have willingness on both sides. There is a willingness, clear willingness on the Ukrainian side. Not at any cost, of course, but there is a willingness. And there is no such willingness on the Russian side.

So you have to force Putin to negotiate, and for this, we need pressure by all sides. The US, China, India, in particular all the democratic countries in the world. And we are very glad to see that Nigeria has been very consistent in condemning the Russian invasion to Ukraine at the United Nations General Assembly. That’s very important, and that’s very commendable on the part of the Nigerian diplomacy.

But why is it taking long to bring Ukraine into the EU fold?

Ukraine is a very new candidate country. Its candidacy negotiations were already open, which was really very quick. But the accession process always takes many years. It takes, in most cases, at least 10 years or so. So Ukraine has been advancing already very fast in this process.

It will take more years even if the war stops, until Ukraine becomes a member state of the European Union. There are other member states, other candidate countries, which are negotiating their accession for years and years, for 15 years or more. So, Ukraine has not been going slowly in this process.

Why such a long time to process accession?

Acceding to the European Union is very demanding. You have to meet very demanding criteria. Criteria in terms of rule of law, respect for democracy and human rights first. And enduring in time, of course.But also criteria in terms of economic policies, of integrating all the EU legislation into EU national law. Having the administrative capacities to do so, to implement this legislation. And also having the economic capacity to enter into the European single market. It requires a lot of efforts by a candidate country.

What are the ideals of the EU?

We stand for a world, a multipolar world where you shouldn’t have the law of the strongest. But a multipolar world based on rules, based on the principles of the UN Charters, a world where all nations’ interests and sovereignty are respected and taken into account.

A more prosperous and sustainable world with free trade; a fairer world also with a better repartition of power and of economic opportunities. And we are promoting also a model of society based on this combination of civil liberties, economic efficiency and social inclusion, which is our DNA in Europe, the basis of our success.

We think that we encourage others to follow this path and also follow the path of regional integration. This is what we stand for, and this is a powerful model. This is why others are trying also to undermine our offer and spread disinformation, especially in Africa on what the EU is trying to do, saying that we are here to exploit the African people and exploit raw materials. And that we just want to keep Africans in poverty, which is exactly the contrary to what we are trying to do.

What does Nigeria represent for the EU?

Well, for us, Nigeria is a major player. Not only for the future, but also for the present. A few days ago, I paid a very interesting courtesy call to His Excellency, the Vice-President, KashimShettima, and he reminded us that already 25% of Africans are Nigerians, and in 2050, it will be one third. So Nigeria is a giant. It’s a giant in Africa, it’s a giant in the world.

West Africa as a whole is a neighbouring region for us. We have many links – human, cultural, economic – that we’ve had for a very long time. So, our destinies are intertwined –are very much linked. The EU cannot go well if things go wrong in West Africa, and vice versa. That’s why the interest we’re pursuing in West Africa and Nigeria is basically about promoting prosperity, stability, sustainable development,have a friendly and strong partnership and relationship. A partnership among equals and based on shared values. So,this is what we are trying to promote with Nigeria in particular.

How does the EU engage with Nigeria?

First, through trade. We are already Nigeria’s first trading partner. More or less 28% of Nigeria’s foreign trade is with EU companies, with the EU. Actually, Nigeria benefits very much from it, with more than 10 billion dollars surplus. Unlike its relationship with other important trade partners, with whom it has a deficit.

With the EU, it has a trade surplus, and a significant one. And we are also the first export market for Nigeria’s non-oil exports. In terms of investment, we are also historically the first partner, the first source of foreign direct investment. One third of the existing foreign direct investment in Nigeria comes from the EU.

It’s a quality investment in terms of environment norms and respectful labour laws, for instance. Third, we are engaging with cooperation, with partnership on green economy, on climate smart agriculture, on renewable energy, on digital innovation, on health, but also on education, social protection, and humanitarian aid for the most destitute.

What we want to do is for this cooperation to benefit the citizens, people in Nigeria, and leverage more investments, create more opportunities, more jobs. This is what we call the Global Gateway Strategy, which is our new cooperation strategy for the world, and in particular here in Africa, to try to articulate more cooperation with the private sector, and with investment projects.

This is basically what our engagement is about. But, also, in terms of people-to-people contacts, we have many Nigerian students going to study in Europe, for instance. In terms of science and innovation, we would like to negotiate an agreement with Nigeria on this. In terms of migration, we have to engage also on a comprehensive partnership, to manage in a coordinated way together migration flows. So yeah, a very wide agenda, and we want to strengthen our partnership with Nigeria on all of this.

In what other areas does Nigeria benefit from Europe?

Well, basically trade and investment, and in terms of cooperation, we are bringing from the EU, apart from what our individual member states also bring, 730 million euros of grants in the period 2021 to 2027, plus loans with very low interest rates from the European Investment Bank, the EIB, and now we have a new bank also coming to Nigeria to complement this offer, which is the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, extending its mandate to Nigeria.

We have, plus our humanitarian aid, some 50 million euros annually from the European Union, and our member states put more or less the same amount, focusing really on the most destitute. It’s also a reliable and constant partnership. Unlike others who are withdrawing, changing their mindsets and reducing their support, we are staying on course, we are keeping our commitments with Nigeria, and we are maintaining our cooperation. In these troubled geopolitical times, you need some stable and reliable partners, and this is what we want to be to Nigeria, and we feel that Nigeria is also for us.

Nigeria aside, what do Nigerians have to gain from Europe?

The citizens in Nigeria have a lot of talents, and we can see this in the digital sector, for instance, where we are very much helping entrepreneurship, for instance young people, young women in particular, to develop their skills and their entrepreneurial projects. We have a network of digital transformation centres, for instance, which are doing this, and we have also several programmes to help young people to enhance their skills.

In the digital sector, we support the three million technical talents project of the federal government. We also support the Nigeria Jubilee Fellowship Programme to help young people to find internships and facilitate the integration to the labour market. Nigeria is a country with a lot of human capacities in particular, and so we want to very much help develop this, because for us it can create opportunities for business, for skills.

We need skills in Europe also, so we want to have skilled Nigerians coming to Europe, but without promoting a brain drain in Nigeria, because Nigeria also needs professionals. I want to talk about that. We know that the population in Europe is mostly getting old, and we have a vibrant, young, and educated, well-skilled population in Nigeria.

What are the migration pathways that can facilitate easy migration, labour migration from Nigeria to the European countries?

Until now, the labour migration has been primarily a competence of national competence in the EU, of member states. But now we have a pact on asylum and migration in the EU, and we want to act in a more united way between the EU member states. What we want is to partner countries like Nigeria to decide who is coming to Europe based on the necessity of our labour markets.

The availability of these skills in Nigeria, of professionals willing to work in Europe, and without taking away from Nigeria the professionals needed here. So, we have to do this in an organised way. Today, people are sometimes going through illegal pathways, sometimes most frequently with very tough experiences, and they don’t get there. We have programmes for return, and re-admission, and support reintegration in the local communities.

We want to have legal migration pathways agreed and organised together with the member states and with our partners like Nigeria. This is something we have to work on. We also have programmes to fight migrant smuggling, trafficking of human beings, which is a spreading phenomenon. And, of course, proceedings of return for migrants, illegal migrants. But our policy in Europe is based on respect for the rights of people and protection of persons more than anything.

Lately, China has been asserting more presence in Nigeria. Is the EU threatened by this close relationship between Nigeria and China?

No, we respect absolutely the right of Nigeria and other countries to have other partners. This is a multiple world, and we don’t demand any kind of exclusivity. So, it’s fair for Nigeria to engage with other partners. We have different offers.

Our offer is different from China’s offer or from the offers of other countries in the world. It is based on the principles I have recalled, which I don’t think that China, for instance, follows the same path or the same kind of actions. For instance, in Europe, we don’t have infrastructure built, bringing our workforce and our companies to do the work here.

We rely on local workforce and companies to build, for instance, the photovoltaic park or mini-grids that we finance in rural areas, to name just one example. So, we don’t feel threatened, but we know there are other offers in the relationship. We think that our partnership is special because, again, we are neighbours, with destinies intertwine.

We are close to each other, and I think that makes a real difference. The fact that our partnership is based on the respect for sovereignty, real care for sustainable development, for having a win-win partnership so that all cooperation benefits to the people here, makes it particularly valuable.

As the EU ambassador to ECOWAS, you are aware of the upheavals in the regional body, like the exit of three member states, and the challenges they have with France. What is your take on the situation, and how is it affecting your relationship with West Africa in general?

As I mentioned earlier, our experience in Europe shows that we are stronger together as a region. Integration is better than disintegration. Everybody wins with integration, everybody loses with disintegration. We have always been very much supportive in the 50 years of existence of ECOWAS, of this regional organisation, and we still are. We also have a sizable cooperation, second to none, with ECOWAS.

And, of course, we encourage very much ECOWAS and its member countries to find a new way of coexistence, a relationship with their neighbours in the three exiting countries. You can’t change geography. You remain neighbours even if you don’t belong to the same regional integration organisation. We went through this experience in Europe with Brexit, when the UK decided to leave the EU, and we have tried from day one on the EU side to engage positively with the UK to shape a new relationship.

I think that little by little, we have advanced quite a long way to build this new relationship with our British neighbours in France. Hopefully things can follow the same path here in West Africa, and perhaps at some point governments can reconsider also under the pressure of the people, because the people, I think, in West Africa, like in Europe, have a sense of belonging together.

Are you still expecting Britain to have a rethink on BREXIT?

This is not on the agenda. As I mentioned earlier, getting in and also getting out of the European Union is not a simple matter, it’s not a simple process. If at some point the UK would like to apply again for candidate, it could be a long complex process certainly but it is not on the agenda neither on UK side and nor on the EU side. Brexit is a fact, and we are working closer and closer with UK in the framework of this new reality.

You are new in Nigeria, btu what do you feel differently about Nigeria since you came, and what legacy would you want to leave behind?

Very good question, you mean how has my look of Nigeria changed over the first eight months? I think I have grasped the richness, diversity, complexity of this country. Its diversity of cultures, of tribes, of tongues and traditions, that is what makes this country complex and fascinating.

The richness of its culture. I have been to Calabar for a carnival, to Katsina for the durbar, we went to Sokoto in the last few days and I found out it is such a rich culture, which unfortunately is not sufficiently known in Europe, and which I think we should work on, make the Europeans and other people of the world more acquitted of the richness of Nigerian traditions.

The legacy I would like to leave behind is a strengthenedpartnership so that we really manage to leverage on more investments, create more jobs, more opportunities. To meet all these objectives, I have mentioned in terms of migration for instance. Also to help Nigeria on the path to peace and stability. And of course you have to be very humble as an ambassador.

First to be aware that what we are bringing as an international community is just a small contribution but the future of Nigerians lies in the hands of Nigerians, of the leaders of the people. We are here to simply help to accelerate at some point. We are not here to dictate anything. We are not the one who are going to change things, we can just help to accelerate a little bit, and if we are able to do this, we have already achieved a lot.

You are an ambassador for you are smaller than what you represent. It is not about one’s legacy but about how you can contribute to an history of relationship between so many people, between two giants in Africa and in Europe, Nigeria and EU. And if I could help bring forward some of these issues during my tenure, I would be very happy.

One issue which I would want to draw your attention to is this issue on Northwest and Northeast Nigeria. We are launching a package of new projects, new cooperation projects of about €300 million in grant from the Team Europe, from the EU and our member states and that was why I went to Sokoto a few days ago because we have a strong support for the Northeast in the last 15 years but we want also to do more for the Northwest.

So, we are launching in Sokoto, three more cooperation projects in social protection, woman and adolescent reproductive health and in solution for internally displaced persons, and we want to review projects of humanitarian support and education. We are coming stronger to the Northwest and the northern part of the country in general.

The recent 2025 European Day celebration did not come and go without leaving on its trails some notes for file. But to cap this and give it meaning was the

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Carex Re-launches with New Identity, Expanded Portfolio in Nigeria

Sunday Ehigiator

Carex, a product of PZ Cussons and a globally trusted name in hygiene, has officially re-launched in Nigeria with a new Masterbrand identity and an expanded portfolio of antibacterial solutions. The solutions include: handwash, bar soaps, and antiseptic liquids, all designed to help Nigerian families stay protected every day.

The re-launch event, which took place in Lagos, brought together media professionals, health experts, regulators, influencers, and key stakeholders to celebrate Carex’s renewed mission: ‘to win the war against germs and champion everyday hygiene’.

Speaking at the event, the Managing Director, PZ Cussons Nigeria, Oghale Elueni, said: “Carex has always stood for protection and care. This is more than just a Masterbrand re-launch. It’s about a bigger mission- to win the war against germs wherever you are- at home, at work, in school, on the go.”

Echoing this commitment, the Head of Marketing at PZ Cussons, Martha Kayode, added: “This re-launch is a fresh start, a chance to renew our promise to Nigerian families. Every single product is formulated to kill one million+ germs in seconds, while being kind to your skin.”

Commenting on the significance of the event to the long-lasting relationship between the United Kingdom and Nigeria, the British Deputy High Commissioner, Jonny Baxter, noted that, “As we celebrate this milestone, let us also celebrate the spirit of partnership that makes it possible. Let us recognise the resilience of Nigerian consumers, the vision of companies like PZ Cussons, and the growing alignment between UK enterprise and Nigerian ambition.”

The brand’s message drew praise from dignitaries and health leaders alike. The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi, highlighted the critical role of hygiene, noting that “good hygiene saves lives. Carex is reaffirming that truth today.”

Similarly, the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, commended Carex’s advocacy, noting that, “Promoting everyday hygiene is essential to reducing the disease burden in our communities. Carex’s dedication to this cause is commendable.”

In her remarks, the General Secretary, National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives(NANNM), Mr. T.A. Shettima T.A, said: “This relaunch marks a significant milestone in NANNM’s collaboration with PZ Cussons; a partnership that has been guided by a clear sense of purpose- promoting health and hygiene through products that meet the highest standards of safety and efficacy.”

Sunday Ehigiator Carex, a product of PZ Cussons and a globally trusted name in hygiene, has officially re-launched in Nigeria with a new Masterbrand identity and an expanded portfolio of

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GIVING INEC A BAD NAME…

The 2023 general elections were free, fair, and credible, argues OLUWAFERANMI AYINDE

Serial parochial criticisms of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and its Chairman, Prof Mahmood Yakubu, have become the pastime of some self-serving moralists, masquerading as patriots and opposition leaders. But their motive is nowhere near patriotism, only a desperate call for invitation to the “national dining table.” Their modus operandi is simple: give INEC a bad name to hang it. Thankfully, they are failing.

I was amused when the former Director of the Muhammadu Buhari’s 2019 Presidential Campaign Council, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi in a recent interview he granted a national television outfit, said that the All Peoples Congress (APC) wouldn’t have won the 2015 Presidential Election if Prof. Yakubu had been in charge of INEC. Remember that Amaechi was also a former Rivers State Governor and Minister of Transportation.

The immediate question is, who was in charge of INEC in 2019, when Amaechi’s principal, former President Buhari contested and won that year’s presidential election? Was it not Prof Yakubu? Could Amaechi have forgotten his role as Buhari’s Director General of Campaign for that election so soon? Not likely. After Buhari was declared winner at the time, Amaechi had no issues at all with either INEC or its Chairman. To him, that election was free and fair. Thereafter, he went about appealing to other contestants in the race to embrace the spirit of sportsmanship, concede defeat and join hands with the winner to take Nigeria forward. In fact, at a press briefing he held on March 5, 2019, Amaechi, among other things, said: “It is only those who fail elections that gather for meetings, while the winners just gather to pop champagne and drink to their victory.” That was how sweet the victory of his party and candidate in the 2019 polls felt for him.

Fast forward to 2023. Amaechi wanted to be President, which is fair enough. He participated in the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential primary election but lost. INEC did not conduct the election. But since then, for reasons best known to him, Amaechi became a turncoat of some sort, transforming into a bitter critic of INEC and its Chairman.

Many subjective supporters of the Labour Party (LP) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have also continued to delude themselves by insisting that they both won the 2023 presidential election that they knew they did not win. Even after their parties lost at the Supreme Court, they have continued to denigrate INEC on social media. Not only that, they have also continued to berate the judiciary, with some of them labeling the Supreme Court Justices as “compromised jurists.” There is no name and conspiracy theory they have not peddled to tarnish Prof Yakubu’s image. But to their utter disappointment, he has refused to respond to their antics and to be drawn into their pits.

I agree that the 2023 general election was not perfect. In any case, who can show me one country in the world where perfect elections are conducted? Not even in the United States, the so-called bastion of democracy where we copied our presidential system from. The memory of the 2020 presidential election controversy, which led to what analysts have described as an instigated but failed insurrection is still very fresh.

An objective assessment of INEC’s trajectory since 2015, devoid of petty sentiments, will reveal positive developments which, unfortunately in my view, have been grossly under-reported. In contrast to what the modern-day Pharisees have been saying, I think the 2023 general elections, comprising the presidential, national assembly, governorship, and state assembly sets, met the required threshold of substantial compliance, meaning they were free, fair, and credible.

I have my reasons. The election produced several firsts. For the first time since 1999, four political parties won governorship seats, unlike in the past when only two political parties dominated the scene. Seven parties won senatorial seats, while eight parties secured federal constituencies. Nine parties also won seats in the State Assembly, paving the way for unprecedented diversity in the national and state legislatures.

Since 2015, when Prof. Mahmood Yakubu took office, several innovations and milestones that would stand the test of time have been implemented. One of the technological innovations is the multi-purpose Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), which replaced the Smart Card Reader (SCR) after it became clear that fraudulent politicians had found a way to circumvent the SCR. That singular action effectively ended voting by proxy, leading to the subsequent widespread dumping of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in forests and shrines by those who had warehoused them for election rigging purposes. It also led to a spike in vote buying, as it became clear to politicians that only real voters could cast a valid vote in an election.

Under Prof. Yakubu, there has been a massive expansion of voter access to polling units. For the first time in 25 years, the total number of polling units in Nigeria increased from 119,974 to 176,846. Also, for the first time, the Commission introduced an online voter registration portal, which enabled voters aged 18 and above to log on to the Commission’s portal, upload their information, and validate their registration at designated centres. Approximately 9.5 million new voters registered between June 2021 and July 2022, increasing the National Register to its current figure of 93,469,008.

The Commission was the first Electoral Management Body (EMB) in Africa to produce a Policy on Conducting Elections in the Context of COVID-19 in 2020, a year when the world was reeling from the devastating effects of the virus. The policy enabled the Commission to conduct several elections safely during the pandemic. There was also the enactment of a new Electoral Act 2022, which the Commission vigorously campaigned for with the assistance of civil society. Among other things, the new Electoral Act made it possible for the Commission to receive its funds for the general election one year in advance, just as it was given the power to review the result of an election in a situation where a Returning Officer was forced to declare the wrong person as the winner.

The INEC Result Viewing (IReV), established by the Commission to promote transparency in the result management process and provide citizens with the opportunity to view polling unit results in real time, was a game-changer. Despite the unexpected glitch that temporarily froze the portal during the 2023 Presidential election and which was quickly rectified, the IReV, which is not a result collation outfit, has given citizens more insight into the election result management architecture than ever before.

The Commission has also made significant gains in inclusivity matters. In recognition of the importance attached to the interests of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), the Commission created a separate Department of Gender and Inclusivity to address the needs of persons in extraordinary circumstances, enabling them to participate actively in the electoral process. Through this route, the Commission has reconfigured its polling booths, provided magnifying glasses for individuals living with albinism, and braille guides for persons with visual challenges, among others.

There are many more. It is thus unfortunate that professional naysayers would, due to purely selfish interests, continue to push destructive narratives, reckless statements, lies and conspiracy theories in a determined effort to destroy one of the foundations of democracy in Nigeria. They are bound to fail.

Dr Ayinde, an entrepreneur, writes from Uyo

The 2023 general elections were free, fair, and credible, argues OLUWAFERANMI AYINDE Serial parochial criticisms of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and its Chairman, Prof Mahmood Yakubu, have become the