President Tinubu, Call Your Inspector-General of Police to Order

By Mobolaji Sanusi

President Bola Tinubu, GCFR. Greetings sir.
Kindly be informed, through this medium, that Nigerians are distraught with your appointed Inspector General of Police. They have no problem with your choice of his person. It is a preference that you’re constitutionally empowered to exercise.

But in recent times, our people have been compelled by prevailing circumstances to ask questions about whether Kayode Egbetokun, Ph.D., has met their expectations regarding policing responsibilities. Even though most of the challenges being faced by the police as a law enforcement institution of state are not his creation, most Nigerians remain in doubt as to whether Egbetokun has done enough to ameliorate or solve some of these problems.

This must have informed why, expectedly, an unbridled outrage heralded his insensitively unnecessary tinted vehicle permit policy.

Mr. President sir, the policy, as newly exhumed and repackaged by the incumbent inspector general of police is thoughtless, insensitive, exploitative, ill-motivated, ill-advised, draconian and more importantly, lacks milk of human kindness with no empirical linkage to the prevailing insecurity in the country that the number one cop seems to have no clue on how to effectively handle.

The 1999 Constitution (as amended) in section 14(2b) provides that the primary purpose of government is the security and welfare of the people. Clearly, it is undeniable that Egbetokun, with his tinted vehicle permit policy, has not familiarised himself with this important provision on the welfare and wellbeing of the citizenry being the main thrust of government.

The first issue with his tinted vehicle permit policy is its being ill-conceived and erroneously linked to insecurity while surreptitiously placing high premium on revenue generation by the police he leads.

Quite unbelievable, Mr. President sir, Egbetokun is exploitatively saying Nigerians should be ready to renew their tinted vehicle permits every year, same with ECMR, that were until now, done once in the lifetime of any vehicle ownership in the country.

Mr. Egbetokun claimed that the process for obtaining the permit with an official fee of less than N14,200 per year is seamless. This is far from the truth, Mr. President, sir.

The police POSSAP portal designed for the policy is perpetually busy and the only way to get it done is to pay any identifiable insider an unofficial amount ranging from N45,000.00 to N60,000.00 for proxy access to the portal, and with same proxy method’s generation of personalised code with which an applicant is expected to proceed to Force Headquarters annex, Obalende, for capturing. This cumbersome process is needlessly punitive and extortionate.

Your sincerely, Mr President sir, believes that Nigerians don’t deserve this unnecessary infliction from the inspector-general. Even if the thoughtless redesign of the policy is so dear to him, why can’t he direct that vehicle owners should obtain the permit when fresh vehicle registration or renewal of expired vehicle license are to be done.

Egbetokun, above all, callously expects factory or non-factory fitted Nigerian tinted vehicle owners to go through this cumbersome process every year. He also exploitatively expects our people to pay yearly tinted vehicle renewal fees. His main motivation, being revenue and not the policing wellbeing of the people, was well captured by the legal body of lawyers in the country to wit: “The Police may generate at least N3billion within a month from monies that will be collected, thus, turning the Police into a revenue- generating agency of the Federal Government instead of focusing on the more serious issues of crime.”

Mr. President sir, tinted vehicle permit for factory or self tinted vehicle is nothing new to our people. What is shocking is the shenanigans associated with the permit under the number one cop who has merely monetised, problematised, and distorted its whole essence. This is quite an insensitively disturbing way of projecting Your Excellency’s esteemed government in bad light amongst the hoi poloi tinted vehicle owners and even in the estimation of right thinking elites in this country.

Mr. Egbetokun has shown no iota of regard for the all important Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and even the revered judiciary in this country and this is a dangerous development, emanating from the country’s number one cop.

Mr. President sir, Nigerians were disappointed when they woke up on Friday to the news of Egbetokun-led Police ignoring the pendency of the NBA instituted suit against the force by going ahead to enforce his newly redesigned tinted vehicle permit policy.

Mr President sir, kindly note that the umbrella body of lawyers in the country, the NBA, has empathetically intervened in the matter. The association has even approached the court to seek judicial solution with Egbetokun’s police looking the other way despite receiving a letter sent to his office reminding him of the pendency of the matter before the Federal High Court, Abuja. The height of police impunity on this issue, despite its pendency in court, is that barely forty-eight hours ago (Thursday), a judge of the National Industrial Court, NIC, in Delta State had his tinted vehicle impounded by the police.

To mitigate the hardship being faced by the people over this matter, it is imperative to let your esteemed self know that the NBA, through its Chairman on Special Public Interest Litigation Committee, NBA-SPIDEL, Mr Kunle Edun, SAN, has assured the public that the legal body shall “Invoke the powers of the Court to ensure that the Nigeria Police Force does not trample on the rights of Nigerians.”

The association has also directed its “Human Rights Committees of the 130 branches of the NBA in Nigeria” to offer pro bono services to anyone that is harrassed by the police over this issue. This underscores the seriousness attached to this issue by millions of Nigerians looking up to your esteemed intervention.

Mr. President sir, the implication of above involvement of NBA is that the recalcitrant posturing of the IGP on this issue may indirectly be galvanizing instruments of blackmail for the opposition against your government. Yours sincerely do not think your esteemed self should allow this to happen. Hence, the necessity of your quick action in this regard.

It is yours sincerely’s humble view that the Nigeria Police Force under your esteemed presidency, should be directed to forthwith on this matter, show respect for the rule of law, the judiciary, and to eschew anything that could further provoke members of the public on this subject.

The IGP needs to know the trite law that a party served with an Originating Process and especially a Motion on Notice for Interlocutory Injunction has a duty imposed on him by law to maintain the status quo ante bellum until the case is determined by the court for or against any of the parties involved.

The need for Egbetokun-led police to keep the state of things the way they were at the time he was served with the motion in order to not foist a situation of helplessness on the court is obligatory, not persuasive.

As the nation’s number one cop, the expectations of the people on this policy is that he should stop further contempt for judiciary processes. If he’s sure of the constitutionality of his policy on tinted vehicles permit fees policy, he should go ahead and argue his case in a courtroom, not on the several roads across the country where his rampaging men and officers are disturbing peaceful motoring.

Mr President sir, please, Nigerians need your urgent intervention in calling this man to order. IGP Egbetokun should not be further allowed to dent the constitutional reputation of your government before the judiciary and Nigerians more than his current unyielding posturing is doing.

May almighty God continue to bless your leadership. Thank you Mr President.

•Sanusi, former MD/CEO of Lagos State Signage & Advertisement Agency is currently the managing partner of AMS RELIABLE SOLICITORS.

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    Tinubu to New Service Chiefs: Strengthen Nigeria’s Security Architecture, Deepen Professionalism

    Tinubu to New Service Chiefs: Strengthen Nigeria’s Security Architecture, Deepen Professionalism

    ·         President retains chief of defence intelligence in major shake-up

    ·         Gen. Oluyede now CDS, Maj. Gen. Shaibu named Chief of Army Staff, AVM Aneke is Chief of Air Staff, Rear Admiral Abbas appointed Chief of Naval Staff.

    ·         Presidency says appointment of new service chiefs routine

    ·         Governors pledge to share intelligence with DSS, others

    ·         Experts harp on synergy, improved troops’ welfare

    Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha, Linus Aleke in Abuja and Chiemelie Ezeobi in Lagos

    In a bold move to strengthen the nation’s security architecture, President Bola Tinubu yesterday replaced the Service Chiefs and gave the newly appointed military leaders a clear mandate to deepen professionalism, enhance vigilance, foster unity within the Armed Forces, and serve the nation with honour and dedication.

    Precisely, the President appointed General Olufemi Oluyede to replace General Christopher Musa as the new Chief of Defence Staff. The new Chief of Army Staff is Major-General W. Shaibu. Air Vice Marshall S.K Aneke is now the Chief of Air Staff, while Rear Admiral I. Abbas is the new Chief of Naval Staff. However, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Major-General E.A.P Undiendeye, retained his position.

    The shake-up, described by analysts as both urgent and strategic, underscored the Tinubu-led administration’s resolve to restore public confidence and reclaim control from spiraling threats and killings by armed bandits in some parts of the country.

    This comes as the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) pledged to deepen intelligence sharing and coordination with the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies, to tackle insecurity threats, violent extremism, and inter-communal tensions across the country.

    The President in a post on his verified X handle, @officialABAT, while announcing changes in the hierarchy of the nation’s security leadership, explained that the new appointments were part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s national security architecture and enhance operational effectiveness.

    “I have approved changes in the hierarchy of our Armed Forces to further strengthen Nigeria’s national security architecture. I charge the new Service Chiefs to deepen professionalism, vigilance, and unity within our Armed Forces as they serve our nation with honour,” Tinubu wrote.

    President Tinubu also expressed appreciation to the outgoing Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and other former Service Chiefs for their “selfless service and dedicated leadership,” assuring that the new appointments reflect his administration’s resolve to ensure a secure and stable Nigeria.

    Earlier yesterday, in a statement, presidential spokesperson, Sunday Dare, Tinubu had charged the newly appointed Service Chiefs to justify the confidence reposed in them to further enhance the professionalism, vigilance and comradeship that define the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

    The appointments were with immediate effect.

    In a separate statement yesterday, the Presidency described as routine the appointment of new service chiefs.

    Dare clarified that the appointment was a routine exercise within the constitutional mandate of the President, who, as Commander-in-Chief, bears the responsibility of recalibrating the nation’s security architecture for optimal performance.

    He explained: “It is a routine, the President as the Grand Commander of the order of Federal Republic of Nigeria, can make appointments just as he changed the ministers few months ago”.

    Dare dismissed insinuations that the appointment was a confirmation of speculations in a section of the media suggesting undue discord.”

    The presidential spokesperson affirmed that the President acted within his constitutional powers and prerogative in relieving former Service Chiefs of their duties.

    He stressed that appointments and reappointments in the security sector remain the exclusive preserve of the President, in line with his obligation to safeguard national security and ensure effective leadership within the Armed Forces.

    Meanwhile, the NGF has pledged to deepen intelligence sharing and coordination with the Department of State Services to tackle security threats, violent extremism, and inter-communal tensions across the country.

    During its fifth meeting in Abuja, which held from Thursday night to early yesterday, the Forum also called on governors to rally support for the Reserved Seats for Women Bill, describing it as a vital step toward gender equity and inclusive governance.

    In recent weeks, gunmen have launched sporadic attacks on lives and property in parts of the country.

    The DSS had on Tuesday warned of a planned attack by the Islamic State West Africa Province targeting Ondo and Kogi States.

    In response, security agencies in the affected states have heightened surveillance and activated counter-terrorism measures to thwart the threat.

    Kogi State, which borders 10 states: Benue to the east, Anambra to the south, Enugu to the southeast, Edo and Ondo to the southwest, Ekiti and Kwara to the west, Niger to the north, Nasarawa to the northeast, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, has been identified as a strategic location.

    Alarmed by these developments, NGF, in a communique signed by its Chairman, Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and read by Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, emphasised the need to strengthen intelligence sharing and collaboration with federal security agencies to promote peace and stability across the country.

    Sanwo-Olu stated, “The Forum received a presentation from the Director-General of the DSS, Mr Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, on emerging security threats and intelligence-led strategies to strengthen subnational coordination.

    “The briefing focused on countering violent extremism, managing inter-communal tensions, and addressing security risks linked to economic hardship and political transition.

    “Governors expressed appreciation to the DSS for its proactive engagement and reiterated their commitment to deepen intelligence sharing and collaboration with federal security agencies to enhance peace and stability across the states.”

    In a related development, security experts yesterday set agenda for the newly appointed Service Chiefs, urging them to prioritise synergy amongst the services, invest in troops’ welfare, and judiciously manage the funds at their disposal to achieve the Federal Government’s objectives in the defence and security sector.

    They also dismissed speculations that the sack of the former chiefs may be connected to the alleged attempted coup plot which the military authorities had previously denied.

    The former Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Ogbole Amedu-Ode, advised the new chiefs to carry out their constitutionally assigned duties to the best of their ability and ensure the security of the country, both internally and externally, so that citizens can sleep with their two eyes closed, and travel without fear of bandits, kidnappers, or terrorists on the highways.

    The retired ambassador, who spoke to THISDAY, said: “I expect them to prioritise kinetic efforts, while non-kinetic measures should be directed towards exposing those who sponsor insecurity — the conflict merchants. We should be able to identify who they are and bring them to face the full weight of the law.”

    Asked if there was a nexus between the appointment of the new Service Chiefs and the alleged attempted coup, he said: “I am not someone who is easily given to speculation. Whatever the case, the Commander-in-Chief has exercised his constitutionally granted powers to the best of his ability. His actions are in accordance with the law.”

    A security expert and veteran defence journalist, Chidi Omeje, stressed the need for collaboration and synergy among the services, as well as improved welfare for frontline troops.

    According to him: “The new COAS was a theatre commander not long ago, so he understands the issues at stake — namely, extinguishing the flames of terrorism in Nigeria. He is aware of the challenges. I expect each and every one of them to strengthen collaboration, as no service can do it alone. Therefore, I want this new set of Service Chiefs to foster greater cooperation and synergy within and amongst themselves, so that the occasional complaints by ground forces about not receiving air support when urgently needed will become a thing of the past.”

    Former Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mike Ejiofor, said the President has his reasons, but changing the Service Chiefs may not bring about immediate improvements in the security situation.

    He added: “They must concentrate all efforts on fostering synergy; they must work together to succeed. The government must also play its part by adequately funding the services.

    “While analysts may insist that the defence and security sector has the largest allocation in the 2025 budget, they often forget that we have only just begun implementing it, which means we are effectively running two budgets concurrently. There have been few releases and little cash backing for projects in the sector.”

    PROFILES OF NEW SERVICE CHIEFS

    Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede: Seasoned Commander and Strategic Reformer Appointed Chief of Defence Staff

    President Tinubu approved the appointment of Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede as the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), following a successful tenure as the 24th Chief of Army Staff (COAS). 

    A seasoned commander and reform-minded officer, he is widely regarded as one of the key figures behind the Nigerian Army’s recent transformation drive, which focused on operational efficiency, personnel welfare, and inter-service cooperation.

    During his tenure as Chief of Army Staff, General Oluyede led a series of successful counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations in the North-East and North-West, resulting in the decimation of several terrorist enclaves and the surrender of thousands of insurgents. 

    He also prioritised improved welfare and training for troops, ensuring that field commanders received the logistical and intelligence support needed to sustain momentum on all fronts.

    His administration introduced key reforms in Army logistics, intelligence-led warfare, and human capacity development, initiatives that enhanced operational coordination within the Armed Forces. 

    He was also instrumental in expanding the Army’s civil-military relations framework and in deepening collaboration with the Navy and Air Force, fostering joint operations that improved mission outcomes.

    Thus, with his appointment as Chief Defence Staff, President Tinubu is seeking to ensure continuity and stability in the military’s strategic direction.

    Major General Waidi Shaibu: Battle-hardened Strategist Takes Command as 25th Chief of Army Staff

    A decorated commander and seasoned strategist, Major General Waidi Shaibu brings to the post of Chief of Army Staff (COAS) a blend of operational experience, academic rigour, and unyielding commitment to Nigeria’s sovereignty. 

    His appointment signals a defining phase in the Nigerian Army’s transformation towards enhanced combat readiness and institutional reform.

    Born on 18 December 1971 in Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State, General Shaibu was admitted into the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in 1989 as part of the 41 Regular Course and was commissioned into the Nigerian Army Armoured Corps in 1994. 

    A mechanical engineer by training, he holds a Bachelor’s Degree from the NDA and multiple advanced degrees, including a Master’s in Strategic Studies (University of Ibadan), a Master’s in Security and Strategic Studies (National Defence University, Washington D.C.), and a Master’s in Public Administration (University of Calabar).

    His career trajectory reflects both grit and intellect. He has commanded formations across challenging theatres of operation, from Borno to Yobe, including his tenure as General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7 Division and Commander Sector 1, Operation HADIN KAI, Maiduguri. His previous appointments include Chief of Training (Army Headquarters), Brigade Commander (21 Special Armoured Brigade, Bama), and Chief Instructor, Nigerian Army Armour School.

    General Shaibu’s leadership has been tested in major operations such as HARMONY, LAFIYA DOLE, HADIN KAI, and DESERT SANITY, earning him the Purple Heart Medal for gallantry. He is also a graduate of the Harvard Kennedy School of Government and has served on peacekeeping missions in Liberia and Sudan.

    A Fellow of the Defence College (fdc) and recipient of numerous decorations, including the Distinguished Service Star (DSS) and Meritorious Service Star (MSS), Shaibu is expected to consolidate reforms in the Army, enhance intelligence-led warfare, and deepen synergy in joint operations.

    Rear Admiral Idi Abbas: Seaman Scholar Rises as 25th Chief of the Naval Staff

    Rear Admiral Idi Abbas, a seasoned Above Water Warfare specialist and career naval officer, assumes office as the 25th Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), a role that caps nearly four decades of service defined by discipline, professionalism, and operational excellence.

    Born on 20 September 1969 in Nassarawa Local Government Area of Kano State, Rear Admiral Abbas began his military journey at the Air Force Military School, Jos, before enrolling in the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987 as part of the 40 Regular Course. He was commissioned as a Sub-Lieutenant in 1993 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry.

    An accomplished officer, he has undertaken several specialised and command courses at home and abroad, including the Officers’ Long Course (OLC XII) at NNS QUORRA and the United Nations Military Observer Course in Tanzania. 

    A graduate of the National Defence College, Abuja, he holds the prestigious designations of Passed Staff Course (psc) and Fellow Defence College (fdc).

    Rear Admiral Abbas’s naval career has been defined by wide-ranging leadership roles. He has commanded key operations and naval bases, including NNS VICTORY, NNS DAMISA, and the Central Naval Command. 

    His previous appointments include Flag Officer Commanding (CNC), Maritime Guard Commander of NIMASA, and Commander Task Group of Operation TSARE TEKU. He has also served as Chief of Naval Safety and Standards (CNASS) and Chief of Defence Civil-Military Relations (CDCMR) at Defence Headquarters.

    His outstanding service record has earned him several honours, including the Forces Service Star (FSS), Distinguished Service Star (DSS), Grand Service Star (GSS), and Defence General Staff Medal (DGSM).

     A member of the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM) and the International Institute of Professional Security (IIPS), he is respected for his firm leadership and innovative approach to maritime security.

    Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke: Intellectual Aviator and Strategic Reformer Becomes 23rd Chief of the Air Staff

    An accomplished pilot and scholar, Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke’s appointment as the 23rd Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) represents a fusion of intellectual rigour and operational excellence. His leadership is expected to propel the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) into a new era of smarter airpower, enhanced mobility, and precision warfare.

    Born on 20 February 1972 in Makurdi, Benue State, AVM Aneke hails from Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State. A member of the 40th Regular Combatant Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy, he was commissioned as a Pilot Officer in 1993. Over the decades, he has distinguished himself as a tactical aviator, strategist, and reform-minded officer.

    Aneke holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Physics, a Postgraduate Diploma in Management, and two Master’s Degrees, one in International Affairs and Diplomacy (Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria) and another in Political Economy and Development Studies (University of Abuja). 

    He also earned a Professional Certificate in Aviation Safety Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Florida, and is currently pursuing a PhD.

    With over 4,300 flying hours on multiple aircraft, including the Falcon 900, Gulfstream 550, and Hawker 4000, AVM Aneke has led complex missions within and beyond Nigeria. 

    He has served as Chief of Air Operations for the UN Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUC), Command Operations Officer at Tactical Air Command, and Air Officer Commanding, Mobility Command, Yenagoa.

    His stellar career is decorated with medals such as the Grand Service Star (GSS), Distinguished Service Star (DSS), and Field Command Medal (FCM). 

    Known for his calm disposition, discipline, and strategic foresight, Aneke is poised to strengthen the NAF’s role in counterterrorism, intelligence-led operations, and defence innovation.

    ​  

    ·         President retains chief of defence intelligence in major shake-up ·         Gen. Oluyede now CDS, Maj. Gen. Shaibu named Chief of Army Staff, AVM Aneke is Chief of Air Staff, Rear Admiral

    Tributes Pour in as Oramah Steps Down as Afreximbank President

    Tributes Pour in as Oramah Steps Down as Afreximbank President

    • Successor, Olombi pledges to build on legacy of innovation, unity

    Sunday Ehigiator

    In what was both a grand celebration and an emotional farewell, tributes from African leaders, business magnates, and international dignitaries poured in yesterday for Prof. Benedict Okey Oramah, as he officially bowed out as President and Chairman of the Board of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) after a decade of groundbreaking leadership that redefined the trajectory of African trade, finance, and economic integration.

    The valedictory ceremony, held at Afreximbank’s headquarters in Cairo, Egypt, was an affair befitting the stature of a man many described as, “Africa’s trade architect,” a scholar, visionary, and patriot whose ideas turned into enduring institutions and whose leadership transformed Afreximbank into a continental powerhouse.

    The event, attended by some former and current African heads of state, business leaders, bankers, and global diplomats, saw Nigeria’s Aliko Dangote, former Afreximbank presidents Jean-Louis Ekra and Christopher Edordu, incoming President Dr. George Olombi, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State and AfCFTA Secretary-General Wamkele Mene, among others, pay glowing tributes to Oramah’s indelible legacy.

    Since assuming office in 2015, Oramah presided over what many describe as the most transformative era in Afreximbank’s 30-year history.

    Under his stewardship, the bank’s assets grew beyond $30 billion, Afreximbank launched PAPSS to enable local-currency trade, initiated the African Medical Centre of Excellence in Abuja, created CANEX and the Intra-African Trade Fair, and established the AFCFTA Adjustment Fund with $1 billion in seed capital.

    Observers said these initiatives redefined Africa’s trade sovereignty and strengthened South–South cooperation, especially between Africa and the Caribbean.

    Taking the podium last, Oramah delivered a reflective and gracious farewell, tracing his 31-year journey with the bank — from joining as a pioneer staffer, to leading it through Africa’s most dynamic trade decade.

    “When I joined Afreximbank, I knew I was not entering just another financial institution,” he said. “I was joining a movement aimed at turning Africa’s aspirations into reality.”

    He recounted milestones achieved under his tenure, the implementation of AfCFTA, the launch of PAPSS, the Intra-African Trade Fair, and the bank’s balance sheet growth from $6 billion to over $40 billion.

    “We fought on all fronts,” he said, “because we knew Africa’s economic emancipation could not come from outside. Our development dynamo had to be powered from within.”

    Oramah paid tribute to his mentors; the late Dr. Babacar Ndiaye, pioneer president Christopher Edordu, and successor Jean-Louis Ekra, for their trust and guidance, and to the Afreximbank board and staff for their unwavering support.

    He closed his speech with quiet humility: “Thank you for allowing me to serve. Thank you for your partnership, friendship, and faith. The relationships we have built and the bonds we have forged will remain permanent threads in the tapestry of our lives.”

    In one of the night’s most heartfelt moments, Oramah’s wife, Mrs. Chinelo Oramah, moved the audience to tears as she spoke about the personal side of the Afreximbank journey.

    “One time he fell sick, and the bank rallied around us,” she recalled. “The concern of the board, management, and staff—and the care that was provided—saved his life. That kind of support transcends employment. It is family. It is love. It is humanity at its finest,” she added.

    She thanked Afreximbank for investing not just in her husband but in their entire family’s well-being and future.

    “If not for this institution, my children would not have had access to the best education and opportunities,” she said.

    Expressing appreciation to the Afreximbank Spouses Network, she said, “You created a community where we could share joys, navigate challenges, and support one another. The strength you gave me enabled me to be the pillar my husband needed.”

    Turning emotional, she offered gratitude to Egypt, which the family has called home for 32 years. “Cairo is not just where we lived; it is where we loved, laughed, and belonged,” she said. “May God continue to bless Afreximbank, the Arab Republic of Egypt, and our beloved continent.”

    Incoming president, Olombi was visibly moved as he received the mantle of leadership.

    “We are witnessing the end of an era, but also the beginning of a new chapter,” he said. “Professor Oramah has shown us what is possible when vision meets courage. We will build on this legacy,” he said.

    Aliko Dangote captured the mood of the evening with humour and affection, praising Oramah’s relentless drive and service to the continent.

    “Prof, as you depart, you leave behind a kindred spirit and zeal which can only get better,” Dangote said. “We return you now to your family, but only for a brief sabbatical because we can’t have our star player on the bench when the game is still in the first half.”

    Dangote also acknowledged Oramah’s wife, and their daughters for what he described as “a decade of generosity in sharing him with Africa.”

    Turning to Oramah’s successor, Olombi, Dangote pledged the Dangote Group’s continued partnership with Afreximbank, urging Olombi to “take the institution to even greater heights.”

    Jean-Louis Ekra, who handed the baton to Oramah in 2015, spoke with visible emotion as he reflected on their 30-year professional bond that began when Oramah joined the bank as a young officer in 1996.

    “For nearly two decades as my colleague and close collaborator, he demonstrated deep dedication and steadfast commitment to the bank’s growth,” Ekra recalled. “Ten years later, I am profoundly moved to witness that Prof. Oramah not only fulfilled that mandate but far surpassed every expectation.”

    He described Oramah as, “a man of loyalty and faithfulness,” crediting his transformational leadership for making Afreximbank “an indispensable pillar of African development finance.”

    Ekra also saluted Oramah’s wife, Chinelo, for her steadfast support through years of demanding public service. “Behind this great man is a woman of rare strength,” he said.

    The bank’s pioneer president, Christopher Edordu, recounted his first encounter with the young Oramah in the early 1990s, when the agricultural economist presented his PhD thesis on irrigation, as his entry credential to banking.

    “He had never worked in a bank, yet his thesis revealed an audacious mind,” Edordu said. “He was the kind of man who, if you showed a helicopter, would return in a week with a sketch of a spacecraft.”

    Edordu noted that Oramah’s early writings on trade finance and currency policy helped shape the intellectual foundation for the creation of Afreximbank and later the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS).

    AfCFTA Secretary-General Wamkele Mene praised Oramah’s visionary partnership that helped the new trade secretariat find its footing.

    “Because of him, we can now trade in local currencies. The PAPSS is a reality,” Mene said. “He didn’t just imagine Africa’s integration, he built it.”

    He lauded Oramah’s courage in asserting African financial independence despite external skepticism: “When African institutions assert their independence, there are always consequences. But leaders like Oramah have shown we can deliver on our promises as Africans.”

    Representing Nigeria’s political and traditional community, Engr. Simon Ukpaka described Oramah as “a man whose humility and brilliance have not erased his roots.”

    “Each time he returns home, he supports our community projects and mentors our youth,” Ukpaka said. “He has made us proud.”

    The Prime Minister of Grenada, through his envoy Ambassador Richard Allen Nixon, recalled the African-Caribbean Trade and Investment Forum 2025, where Oramah was honoured with a symbolic flamboyant tree planting in Grenada’s national park.

    “That tree, with its fiery red blossoms and resilience, now stands as a living tribute to the unity you fostered between Africa and the Caribbean,” the message read.

    As the lights dimmed on the ceremony, applause lingered for minutes, echoing through the marble halls of Afreximbank’s Cairo headquarters.

    For many present, the night was not just a farewell to a leader but a celebration of a legacy; one defined by vision, discipline, and faith in Africa’s potential.

    Oramah’s life’s work, as one speaker put it, “became Africa’s shared story; a testament that when Africans believe in themselves, the world takes notice.”

    ​  

    Sunday Ehigiator In what was both a grand celebration and an emotional farewell, tributes from African leaders, business magnates, and international dignitaries poured in yesterday for Prof. Benedict Okey Oramah,

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