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A Feat of Patience

Between 2010 and 2015 when Ebele Goodluck Jonathan was president of Nigeria, his wife Patience Jonathan became somewhat of a public spectacle. Nigerians long fed up with public officers in the country seized on her grammatical gaffes, exaggerated same, and made it a point of duty to needle her endlessly. It did not help that her husband’s tenure coincided with a tumultuous period in Nigeria’s history.

As First lady, a position long loathed by Nigerians for the tendency of its occupants to be overbearing and high-handed, she also did not help the conversation around her with the way she put herself about. Many Nigerians came to perceive her as overbearing. Some of it was true, even though the propaganda machine of the then opposition All Progressives Congress was working overtime to discredit the administration.

A whirlwind defeat followed In the 2015 general election and despite being universally admired and acknowledged for quietly handing over power, it meant that Mrs. Jonathan followed her husband into premature political retirement. There were the suspiciously brief exertions of the EFCC to recover stolen property, but it has largely been quiet for the former first family.

The former first lady recently re-entered the public consciousness with a flourish. The occasion was a service at Streams of Joy International, a church run by the popular Pastor Jerry Eze. In her testimony, the first lady who recently obtained her PhD from the Ignatius Ajuru University of Education in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, took Nigerians through her academic journey to thunderous applause from the congregation. She concluded by encouraging Nigerians to pursue their dreams, especially their academic dreams.

To hear her speak in error-proof English was itself refreshing. For someone in whom Nigerians trusted for a free flow of errors to keep the barrel of laughs bustling, it was remarkable to witness how much self-development had refined and elevated her.

Her husband’s time in office saw a rise in insecurity and poverty in the country. But the fact that today, Nigerians look back at that period with something resembling nostalgia speaks volumes about how much the country has fallen in the past ten years under successive APC governments that have been catastrophic examples of how not to make a change.

In deed, since the change of guard in 2015, Nigerians who thought that it couldn’t get worse than the PDP’s rudderless and corrupt leadership of the country for 16 years have been fed new levels of low by an APC administration that combines mind-boggling inefficiency with bone-chilling hypocrisy.

In encouraging Nigerians to pursue their dreams of getting education, Mrs. Jonathan may not have averted her mind to the fact public primary school pupils within the Federal Capital Territory have been at home for more than three months now because their teachers are on strike or that the shambles her husband left in the education system has got worse since he left office in 2015.

Mrs. Jonathan also alluded to her acquisition of a doctorate degree being some kind of superfluity, given that she had finished her career and done time as Nigeria’s first Lady.

She remains an inspiration for hitting the height of academic qualifications, and she can use her wide influence to encourage and support the education of women and the girl-child in a country where they continue to face significant hurdles unjustifiably.

Ike Willie-Nwobu,

Ikewilly9@gmail.com

Between 2010 and 2015 when Ebele Goodluck Jonathan was president of Nigeria, his wife Patience Jonathan became somewhat of a public spectacle. Nigerians long fed up with public officers in

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Bloody Farms, Silent Palaces

Femi Akintunde-Johnson

The bloodbath in Benue State, particularly around the farming community of Yelewata, once again thrusts Nigeria’s North Central into the limelight – not for its rich soils, historic towns, or culinary heritage, but as a killing field where human life is bartered cheaply, and official empathy is rationed like famine aid. The reports are damning: over 100 lives snuffed out, entire villages razed, hundreds displaced – and yet, from Abuja to Makurdi, the fog of bureaucratic indifference floats freely.

The last weekend massacre, reportedly claiming upwards of 200 lives, should have been a national emergency. But what we got, initially, was a bland statement from the presidency calling for reconciliation – yes, with killers who shoot children and slit the throats of pregnant women. Cold-blooded murderers whose identities are either unknown or conveniently unacknowledged. Reconcile with ghosts? Or should we assume the government has a WhatsApp group chat with these faceless marauders?

It wasn’t until America sneezed – when a few Congressmen and the Pope raised their brows – that Nigeria reached for its hanky. Suddenly, the Inspector General of Police and the Chief of Defence Staff remembered that Benue was still on the map. By Monday, they were on the ground, cameras in tow, promising action and commiserations. But the question is not when they arrived; it is why they ever left. Why, after years of recurring attacks, do we still respond like shocked spectators rather than a sovereign with muscle and memory?

The federal government, once again, seems trapped in the eternal tango of reaction, not prevention. While the Presidency’s handlers were busy crafting grammatical gymnastics for a media statement, young Nigerians on X (formerly Twitter) were unloading their fury. Some accused the government of ethnic bias, others of cold-hearted incompetence. Few, if any, defended the state – because, frankly, what is there to defend?

The controversy intensified when reports emerged of the President’s recent visit to Benue. A town hall in Makurdi was hurriedly organised. Elders, leaders, and stakeholders spoke passionately – voices frayed by loss, fear, and disillusionment. And what was the President’s response? Polished, sober, apologetic in parts. Yet, it was his failure to visit Yelewata, the epicentre of the carnage, that ignited fresh outrage. Blaming the rains and poor roads, he stayed back. Surely, this is 2025, and we are talking about the Commander-in-Chief of Africa’s biggest economy. No helicopter? No drone flyover? No virtual address? The symbolism of his absence – at the very heart of the tragedy – is as damning as the bullets that tore through that village.

And just when one thought the optics couldn’t get worse, the President reportedly asked the IGP: “How come no arrest has been made?” A question better posed in private. Publicly, it sounded like a man startled by the sight of smoke after ignoring fire warnings. The statement stung – not just for its content, but for its suggestion: that the federal leader might be as clueless about the inner workings of his security architecture as the rest of us. And if that is the case, then Nigeria is being steered by autopilot, with turbulence as our only guarantee.

At the state level, Governor Hyacinth Alia – a Catholic priest turned politician – is under fire. Elected under a blaze of hope, his robes are now stained with accusations of impotence. Some see a man overwhelmed, others accuse him of political naivety and a worrying passivity. Whatever the truth, one thing is clear: prayers alone won’t stop bullets. A state that is bleeding can’t afford to have leadership still reading the manual.

So, who are the killers? The ever-vague term “herdsmen” has once again crept into public discourse. Some claim Fulani herders – aggrieved over stolen cattle and slain brethren – are carrying out retributive justice. Others suspect foreign mercenaries (jihadists), bandits in disguise, or the usual suspects in the unending narrative of tribal animus and land grabbing. Regardless of which theory you favour, none justify the carnage. Revenge cannot be a synonym for genocide. The law exists to prevent anarchy, not rubber-stamp it.

And if this is about land, then we are dealing with a deeper, more sinister crisis – one that echoes apartheid-style territorial displacements. A creeping strategy to expel indigenes from ancestral lands under the guise of reprisal or grazing rights. If true, then it is not only the Middle Belt at risk, but the very fabric of Nigeria’s unity. If Benue falls silently, tomorrow it could be Nasarawa, Plateau, or Kogi. The nation is inching dangerously close to Rwanda’s ghostly shadow.

Compare this with advanced democracies. In places where human life commands premium value, a single death can trigger resignations, national mourning, and sweeping reforms. In Nigeria, however, entire communities are wiped out and we hold town halls. A child in America gets shot in school, and gun laws are debated endlessly. In Nigeria, children are burnt alive and we debate road conditions for presidential convoys.

What then must be done? First, we must discard this illusion that insecurity is a state problem. It is a national emergency. Whether it happens in Benue, Zamfara, or Borno, the buck stops at the centre. The armed forces must be empowered and unleashed – not just for optics or elections, but for real-time, intelligence-driven protection of rural Nigeria.

Secondly, governors must shed the toga of helplessness. The decentralisation of policing must move from the realm of academic theory to legislative action. State police may not be perfect, but a man defending his home with a licensed arrow is better than a man praying under siege.

Thirdly, there must be consequences. If these killings were in retaliation, then those who murdered cows and herders must face the law. But so too must those who planned, armed, and executed the mass murders in Yelewata. Justice is not a buffet; it cannot serve only the powerful or connected.

Most importantly, Nigeria must find the political will to declare these killings as what they are: acts of terrorism. Not clashes, not misunderstandings, not reprisals – but deliberate, calculated terrorism. Naming the problem is the first step towards solving it.

Ultimately, a nation that treats Benue’s blood with political caution is sowing dragon’s teeth. When people no longer feel safe in their homes, when their cries are met with platitudes, when their killers walk freely, they will stop trusting the state. And when trust dies, anarchy is reborn.

The president must now rise beyond the presidential addresses and tear-jerking town hall sympathies. He must summon courage, not just condolences. For every day of silence or delay, the embers of revenge and radicalisation glow hotter in the hearts of the bereaved.

And the next time the president asks why no one has been arrested, perhaps he should first ask: “What exactly have we done?” Because if this government cannot protect Yelewata, then it has no business selling hope to the rest of Nigeria.

Femi Akintunde-Johnson The bloodbath in Benue State, particularly around the farming community of Yelewata, once again thrusts Nigeria’s North Central into the limelight – not for its rich soils, historic towns,

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‘Consumption’ Uncountable

Ebere Wabara

“THE worst human being is a policeman or soldier who will take arms from his own formations and sell it (them) or hide it (them)….”

Maritime: “Apapa Customs remits N1.875trn into (to) FG’s coffers in 10 months”

“Ladies of St. Mulumba Nigeria to hold annual convention in…” Where, please?

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the entire family of late (the late) Senator…”

“Nothing will work as long as we keep tying the level of exchange rate to our consumptions.” The last word in the extract is uncountable.

“…were the one (ones) going to Parliament (unnecessary capitalization).”

“We decry the national embarrassment cased her by the gross negligent (negligence) of duty by AFN and NOC officials.”

“Trade policy yielding result as balance hit (hits) N6.5trn…”

“Forced retirement: Police officers lament IG’s non compliance (non-compliance) with court (court’s) ruling”

“All eyes on Reps over constitution review exercise” Please delete ‘exercise’ in the interest of word economy.

Yet another set of headline foibles: “KWASU partners USA, China (Chinese) coys on solar energy”

“Kogi farmers’ association allege (alleges) diversion of N1bn agric fund”

“Do they know it’s International Women’s Day” What of the question mark?

The Nation On Sunday of May 25 combated the English language in the following entries: “Somalia (Somali) president attacked by al-Shabab”

“…you have raised the bar of governance which will ever remain difficult for mediocre (mediocrities/mediocrists/the mediocre) to attain….” (Full-page advertisement) ‘Mediocre’ is an adjective.

“Benue 2027: PDP at crossroads over governorship candidate” This way: at a/the crossroads

“Nigerians are, however, skeptical about the level of compliance to (with) the laws guiding the scheme….”

“The governing council, members, management, staff & students of Osun College of Education, Ilesa (another comma) felicitates (how?)….”

“As a symbol, your strides lead the way and inspires (what is going on here?) the hope of a brighter and rewarding future.” (Half-page advertorial by the above institution)

“Any one (sic) with useful information (police cliché: would it have been useless information?) about his where about (sic) (whereabouts) should….” (Full-page advertorial by the FIRS)

Daily Independent online of May 23 circulated headline and body flaws: “Those who say Ibadan don’t (doesn’t) serve gov twice are poor students of history”

“LASU students, JAF protest over (against/at/about) fee hike”

Let us extend our searchlight to Leadership of May 23: “…work for the restoration of peace in (to) northern Nigeria.”

From the editorial to opinion page: “…the citizenry still needs (need) his enormous wealth of experience to stir us to path of rectitude.”

“All Anambra (All-Anambra) LG soccer championship set to kick off”

“…we had been invited on (to/for) a facility tour by the governor.”

“I thought the governor would ride in his official car, or join us in the bus as many other governors have (had) done on trips to other states.”

“We went round Owerri metropolis, seeing state of the art (state-of-the-art) schools….”

“Issues in the Chibok schoolgirls abduction” A syntactic surgery: Issues in Chibok schoolgirls’ abduction

Wrong: Face-me-I-face-you house

Right: Rooming house

“Royal father disowns vigilante (vigilance) group” (DAILY TRUST, May 23)

The Guardian of May 22 toyed with morphological truth: “Parents of abducted female students of the Government Girls (Girls’) Secondary School….” The Guardian must be underestimating its readers’ intelligence: would it have been male students in a girls’ school?

“The aggrieved and traumatised (traumatized, preferably) parents spoke at (on) the premises of the destroyed school when….”

“Umar, Southern Taraba leaders trade words over frequent crisis (crises)”

“Nigeria has best disease surveillance (disease-surveillance) system in Africa”

“SURE-P assures over funding of East-West road” Who did the agency assure?

“…the ordinary poor man in the street….” The ‘man in the street’ does not require any embellishment!

Finally from The Guardian: “…the NJC is a body which every lawyer revere (reveres).”

Next is The PUNCH of May 22 with this faux pas: “FG wants African disease

Leadership of May 22 circulated dozens of inaccuracies: “He said about 150 parents have (had) made spirited attempts last week in search of the abducted girls….”

“He said government has (had) brought food items to the town for….”

“…the case against the Nigerian was serious on the ground (grounds) that he had confessed that….”

“FCT suspends controversial ‘park and pay’ policy” No controversy: ‘park-and-pay’ policy

“MASSOB strikes out ex-Gov Obi’s name from awardees list” Get it right: awardees’ list

“UN raises alarm (the alarm) over ethnic slaughter in South Sudan”

“…restoring sanity in (to) the land….”

The next three wrongdoings are from the opinion pages: “…unless they steal because the varsity has been prized (priced) out of the reach of the poor.”

“…Tinubu to take the bull by the horn (horns).”

“I want to wholeheartedly congratulate President Bola Tinubu for (on/upon) keeping his word….”

“Untold story of E. K. Clark (Clark’s) son’s kidnap, freedom”

“…as you project the vast potentials (potential) of ‘ndi-Anambra’, we wish to appreciate our governor….”

“…Chukwu on his 52nd Birthday anniversary….” Either 52nd Birthday or 52nd Anniversary (the two words cannot co-function).

“Sex enhancing drugs everywhere” Insight: Sex-enhancing drugs everywhere (Otherwise, it will be sex that will be enhancing the drugs)!

“Pomp and glamour as Lagos Traders (Traders’) Cup kicks off” Sports: either pomp and ceremony or pomp and circumstance or just pomp

Vanguard of May 18 goofed two times: “He can still warm (worm) himself to his benefactor in the true spirit of love and reconciliation.”

“He should deploy his energies to (in) rebuilding….”

“…as Kogi and Benue states have experienced it at one time or the other (one time or another).”

“While a section of the media has performed creditably well….” Take off either ‘creditably’ or ‘well’ as both terms cannot co-exist.

Ebere Wabara “THE worst human being is a policeman or soldier who will take arms from his own formations and sell it (them) or hide it (them)….” Maritime: “Apapa Customs

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June 21, 2025
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The Advocate and Arsenal Fan: Glimpse into Life of Abiodun Olatunji

Mr. Abiodun Adediran Olatunji, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria is one of Nigeria’s most accomplished legal minds, with a career spanning litigation, corporate practice, and regulatory advisory. He began his career at the Central Bank of Nigeria during his NYSC, before joining Abdullahi Ibrahim & Co., where he now serves as Deputy Head of Chambers in Lagos. He also chairs Jus Partners, a telecoms consultancy firm, and leads World Lilies Event Place & Hotel. In this exclusive chat with Wale Igbintade, he reveals the human side of legal excellence — his passions, routines, and personal philosophies. Excerpts:

Can you tell us about your academic and professional journey in the legal field?

I was born on December 29, 1967, and called to the Nigerian Bar in 1993 after earning my LLB from the University of Ibadan in 1992. I later obtained an LLM in Banking and Commercial Law from the University of Lagos in 2000. My legal career began at the Central Bank of Nigeria during my NYSC, after which I joined the Lagos office of Abdullahi Ibrahim & Co. I have extensive experience in litigation across trial courts, specialized courts, and appellate courts in Nigeria. I regularly prosecute and defend cases for various federal government agencies and provide advisory services in key regulatory sectors. I also completed a course in Drafting Commercial Agreements and Banking Documentation at the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies. In 2019, I was elevated to the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), and I currently serve as the Deputy Head of Chambers at Abdullahi Ibrahim & Co., Lagos.

Outside the courtroom and legal briefs, how do you typically unwind after a long day?

Outside the courtroom and legal briefs, I have quite a number of business interests and social engagements that keep me on my toes. My daily schedule is usually packed with appointments—both planned and impromptu. Except when external commitments take me out of the office, I rarely leave before 10 p.m. Most of my time is consumed attending to legal briefs and my other business concerns. When I finally get home, I make time to catch up with national and international news and unwind with my family. I’m also a passionate football lover—and not just any football. I am a lifelong supporter of Arsenal Football Club. I follow their matches and news religiously. During these moments, I like to indulge in exotic wines and whisky. I must say, I’m quite knowledgeable about wines, whisky and exotic drinks generally. I also belong to Ikoyi Club in Lagos, the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club, and the Ibadan Golf Club, all of which serve as great places to relax when my schedule allows.

What does a perfect weekend look like for you when you’re not dealing with legal matters?

Even when I’m not directly handling legal matters, I often find myself attending to business interests. However, a perfect weekend for me, when I truly unplug, usually revolves around sports, social events, and family. Watching my beloved Arsenal Football Club defeat rivals like Chelsea and Tottenham brings me immense joy, more so because my son is a die-hard Chelsea fan, and even my boss, Adetunji Oyeyipo, SAN, shares that loyalty. Seeing Arsenal triumph over them is always the icing on my weekend. I also enjoy playing table tennis. As a sports lover, I’m proud to say that a floor of the NBA Ibadan Branch Building (the Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu Building) dedicated to sports, is named after me. Socially, I’m quite outgoing and often attend events, especially since I have interests in the hospitality industry. Whether it’s Lagos or Ibadan, my weekends are rarely quiet, and I enjoy them best when surrounded by friends, family, good music, and laughter.

Are there any hobbies or pastimes you’re particularly passionate about?

Yes, I am very passionate about sports, especially football. I was a member of the University of Ibadan football team during my undergraduate days. I represented the university at the NUGA games and even participated in the World University Games in London. Interestingly, I was scouted by a few English football clubs, but I made a conscious and defining decision to pursue my legal education instead. Apart from sports, I have a deep passion for uplifting people. Helping others achieve their dreams brings me immense satisfaction.

I am particularly invested in supporting indigent students to attain higher education. I strongly believe that education remains the most powerful tool for eradicating poverty and achieving social mobility. That belief drives much of my philanthropic and mentoring activities today.

Can you share some of your all-time favorite books—legal or non-legal—that have left a lasting impression on you?

I maintain a rich personal library that spans various genres—legal texts, historical and political literature, scientific works, autobiographies, biographies, and more. Naturally, as a legal practitioner, I’ve immersed myself in numerous law reports and texts, all of which are invaluable to my practice. Beyond legal literature, I am particularly fond of autobiographies of influential global and local figures. Books on Nelson Mandela, Bill Clinton, Olusegun Obasanjo, Alhaji Abdullahi Ibrahim, and the late Otunba Christopher Adebayo Alao-Akala stand out. Their lives, challenges, and achievements have shaped the course of politics and governance in their respective societies. Reading their personal accounts has had a tremendous impact on me—instilling deeper insights into leadership, sacrifice, and perseverance.

Do you have a daily reading routine? If yes, what types of books or materials do you gravitate towards?

I wouldn’t say I have a fixed reading schedule, but as a lawyer, especially one in active litigation and corporate practice, reading is an inescapable part of my daily routine. It is both a duty and a necessity. You must stay updated not just on law but on virtually every area of human endeavour.

That said, outside legal reading, I gravitate towards books on history, politics, philosophy, and inspirational autobiographies. I enjoy books that challenge the mind and motivate personal development. Any book that sparks ambition, teaches resilience, or offers insight into human behavior and governance will always find a place on my shelf.

What kind of music do you enjoy, and do you listen to music while working or relaxing?

I love Nigerian music, especially the contemporary genres like hip-hop and Afrobeats. Our artists are flying the Nigerian flag high across the globe with beats and rhythms that are uniquely ours. Their music energises and connects with the soul. I also enjoy Juju music, particularly classics by the likes of Ebenezer Obey and King Sunny Ade. Their music is rich in culture, meaning, and melody. There’s a timeless elegance in their sound that still resonates deeply today. I sometimes enjoy a blend of Juju and Afrobeats—especially when played live with a band. While studying, I listen to music at a very low volume—it helps me focus. And when I’m relaxing, you’ll definitely find me enjoying some music, often with a glass of wine in hand.

If you hadn’t studied law, what alternative career path might you have pursued—and why?

Without a doubt, I would have become a professional footballer or a full-time businessman. Football was—and still is—a big part of my life. I played at a level that could have easily translated into a professional career, and I was even offered opportunities abroad. But my passion for law and education prevailed. On the other hand, I’ve always had a natural inclination for business. I see potential in everyday scenarios and often instinctively identify business opportunities. That instinct has helped me build a number of thriving ventures outside legal practice. So, if not law, then definitely football or enterprise.

How would you like to be remembered—not just as a lawyer, but as a person?

I would like to be remembered as someone who used his life to uplift others, who stood firmly for fairness, and who believed that success is best measured not just by personal achievements but by the positive impact one has on others. My deepest satisfaction comes from seeing those I’ve helped go on to achieve their dreams. I believe that justice is not limited to the courtroom—it is a lived reality we create by supporting those around us, championing causes that matter, and leaving legacies of integrity, compassion, and empowerment.

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New Era Autovehicle Services Unveils First Exclusive Jetour Showroom in Nigeria

An auto dealership, New Era Autovehicle Services Limited, has officially launched Nigeria’s first exclusive Jetour showroom in the heart of Victoria Island, Lagos.

The ultra-modern facility was unveiled on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at a grand ceremony attended by leading industry stakeholders, including Chief Michael Ade.Ojo, Chairman of Toyota Nigeria Limited, who commissioned the showroom, as the Guest of Honour.

Chief Ade.Ojo lauded the Jetour brand, noting that its models align perfectly with Nigeria’s rugged terrain and challenging climate.

He urged individuals and corporate organisations to consider Jetour vehicles for their “ruggedness and state-of-the-art equipment.”

“Jetour is not just a stylish automobile, it is a durable companion built to meet Nigeria’s peculiar demands. It is encouraging to see an initiative that prioritises innovation, reliability, and a future-forward approach,” Chief Ade-Ojo said.

Delivering her keynote address, the Managing Director of New Era Autovehicle Services, Kemi Koyejo, described the launch as more than just a business milestone.

According to her, it signals the beginning of a new era in mobility and customer experience in Nigeria.

“Today marks more than the opening of a showroom; it is the beginning of a bold journey to redefine automotive excellence in Nigeria,” Koyejo declared. “We are proud to unveil the first exclusive Jetour dealership in the country, bringing world-class technology, luxury SUVs, rugged off-roaders, and innovative electric vehicles closer to the Nigerian market.”

She emphasised that the facility would not only provide real-time access to Jetour vehicles but also serve as a hub for after-sales services, competitive pricing, flexible financing, and certified pre-owned options.

Koyejo also highlighted the company’s commitment to sustainability, revealing that New Era’s product portfolio includes an expanding line of hybrid and electric vehicles aimed at reducing carbon emissions and contributing to a greener environment.

She extended appreciation to Jetour Mobility Services Nigeria Limited for its support, and to her business partner, Mr. Raf Abanum, for his unwavering encouragement.

The unveiling event also featured a tour of the new showroom, showcasing Jetour’s versatile range of vehicles, from luxury designs to adventure-ready models.

The facility is expected to enhance the brand’s visibility and responsiveness to consumer needs in Nigeria’s highly competitive auto market.

With this development, Jetour joins the growing list of global automotive brands deepening their footprints in Nigeria, as the country’s demand for technologically advanced, affordable, and durable vehicles continues to rise.

An auto dealership, New Era Autovehicle Services Limited, has officially launched Nigeria’s first exclusive Jetour showroom in the heart of Victoria Island, Lagos. The ultra-modern facility was unveiled on Wednesday,

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June 21, 2025
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Nigerian Railways Biggest Investment Coming in 2027, Says NRC MD, Opeifa

The current administration, led by President Bola Tinubu, will in the next two years invest more in the rail transport sector than all past governments combined.

Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr Kayode Opeifa, stated this while delivering a paper titled: “Sustainable Transformation System In Nigeria: A Pathway To Economic Prosperity” at the 11th Nigeria Transport Lecture (NTL), organised by Transport Day Media in Lagos, recently.

Opeifa said the investment coming to the railway would surpass what the country had put in the industry in the last 60 years.

He said this could easily be achieved by both the federal and state governments after removing railway from the exclusive to the concurrent list and as part of the fallout of fuel subsidy removal.

Opeifa lauded President Tinubu, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike and others for repositioning the transport system in the country in the past two years.

According to him, the Nigerian government is making steady progress in building an integrated transport network across the country with the support of investors that are committed to boosting economic recovery and improving macroeconomic indicators.

Specifically, he said President Tinubu had done excellently well by daring to free scarce resources wasted on fuel subsidy and the harmonisation of currency exchange rates.

He also pointed out that the switch of railways from exclusive to concurrent list, the beginning of work to complete the Badagry-Sokoto super highway, abandoned for over 40 years, and the starting of the construction of the Lagos-Calabar super highway were positive indications to a sustainable transportation system.

Other areas he gave credit to the current administration are the investment in rail infrastructure, supporting states with grants for rail system infrastructure, establishment of the Presidential CNG Initiative (Pi-CNG), among others.

Ranking Lagos and Abuja as two cities with the most impressive transportation system, Opeifa said that Kano, Kaduna, Delta, Edo, Oyo, Ogun and others had equally made substantial successes in the transportation system.

He said, “Of mention are the efforts of the states of the northern part of Nigeria investing in Intra-city and interstate transport services as we have in Adamawa, Taraba, Borno, Sokoto, Kastina, Kogi, and Gombe states, among others.”

He equally observed that the efforts of the private sector involvement in interstates transportation were more noticeable in the south eastern regions.

Proffering short-term and long-term strategies for developing sustainable transportation system in the country, Opeifa advised that the government and all other stakeholders, including the private sector, donor agencies and development partners must work together for a sustainable result by prioritising accessibility, affordability, inclusion, efficiency, and environmental responsibility while taking into account cost-benefit analysis.

Other steps for a transport management system, as listed by the NRC boss, are enactment of a national policy on sustainable transportation system, development of a new strategic national rail transportation and logistics master plan, framework for sustainable mass transit operations in Nigeria and establishment of the Ministry of Transportation at all sub-national levels.

He also harped on the need for a review of the current National Integrated Infrastructure master plan and creating an integrated strategic transportation master plan for each state/sub national government (rail, road, water, air, maritime).

Despite the progress made, he equally warned that infrastructure deficiencies, insecurity, operational challenges, union issues, decarbonisation and lack of clear policy, structure and processes had remained the bane of a sustainable transportation system in the country.

The lecture was well attended by key stakeholders in the transportation industry including the Lagos state government, federal government agencies, Federal Road Safety Corps, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Nahco Aviance Plc, Nexant Consulting, and transport and affiliated firms, among others.

The current administration, led by President Bola Tinubu, will in the next two years invest more in the rail transport sector than all past governments combined. Managing Director of the

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June 20, 2025
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Mary Onyeali, Owumi, others Make List as Mbah Inaugurates National Sports Festival LOC

1996 Olympic bronze medalist, Mary Onyeali and former General Manger of Rangers International Football Club as well as current Chief Operating Officer of Nigeria Professional Football League, Davidson Owumi, were among the big names in the nation’s sports industry on parade as the governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah inaugurated the Local Organising Committee, LOC, for the 2026 National Sports Festival to be hosted by the state.

Other members of the LOC, which has the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Barr. Lloyd Ekweremadu, as the Chairman, are Bamiduro Olumide, a seasoned sports management professional and recently retired Director of Elite Athletes Development, National Sports Commission; Aku Aghazu, a skilled lawyer with expertise in sports management; a representative of Nilayo Sports Management; and Chief Operating Officer of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Blessing Ekwe.

Also, on the Committee are the Director of Organising, Enugu State Ministry of Youth and Sports; Director of Coaching in the Ministry, Ephraim Ochomma; Obiora Obasi, also of the state Ministry; Chairman of Enugu State Football Association Tony Ugwu; and President, Modern Pentathlon Federation of Nigeria, Jonathan Nnaji.

Inaugurating the LOC in his office, Mbah, said the state was not just determined to host the NSF, but to also give the nation’s sports industry and sports lovers an unforgettable experience.

Mbah said the government was deliberate in the choice of members, assembling experienced persons from around the country to ensure that Enugu lived up to expectation.

“We want to set the standard because we are Enugu. I am happy that the membership of the LOC is quite rich. It comprises people with great experience in sport administration, and frankly speaking, their reputations precede them. Therefore, we are glad to have this pool of resources to be members of the LOC,” he said.

Mbah added that the state would also leverage its experience hosting the 2009 Under 17 FIFA World Cup and the recent Enugu City International Marathon, noting that his administration was already taking steps to ensure that the sports infrastructure for the NSF were brought to world standard.

“We have started taking steps at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium. We are going to do an extensive revamp. It is going to take a new look. You are not going to recognise the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium because we will bring it to almost a brand new stadium.

“We are also identifying other sporting centers that are not there, such as the aquatic centre. They are going to be there. We are also doing a fit-for-purpose games village known as the Agwu Games Village. We are building new structures there.

“We are indeed poised to give Nigerians and the world at large a world class sporting festival,” Governor Mbah concluded.

Listing the terms of reference of the LOC, he said the Committee would, among other things “be responsible for the successful conduct of the festival; be responsible for the planning and execution of the festival to ensure that the event is organised with the relevant regulations guiding the games.”

The Committee is also to set up relevant subcommittees as it deemed fit and in accordance with the Festival’s regulations and be responsible for coordinating the activities of the various Sub-Committees; and ensure the availability of the games village that will accommodate all the accredited athletes and officials.

Responding, LOC Chairman, Ekweremadu, thanked the governor for considering them fit for the job, assuring that the Committee would work to give the participants the best experience as directed, but also ensure that Enugu State hosts to win.

“The members of the local organising committee are very mindful of Your Excellency’s vision to execute a world-class National Sports Festival, which will set a benchmark for sports festival in Nigeria moving forward. We are determined to win and to make you and the people of the state proud,” he added.

The Chairman equally used the opportunity of the inauguration to present to the governor the flag for the NSF as passed on to Enugu State by Ogun State at the just concluded 22nd edition in the South West state.

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8 Powerful Lessons From Tinubu’s Kaduna Tour

By Nasir Dambatta

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent visit to Kaduna was far more than a ceremonial rite. It was a defining moment of political endorsement, strategic symbolism, and developmental validation.

By personally commissioning a range of people-centred projects executed under the leadership of Governor Uba Sani, Tinubu sent a message that reverberated across political divides. But beyond the moment lies a pattern — one that speaks to eight compelling lessons, each with echoes across Africa.

First, presidential endorsement remains one of the highest forms of political capital. Tinubu’s visit placed a federal seal of approval on Governor Uba Sani’s performance. This is not mere optics. It’s a narrative shift. Just as Tanzania’s President Magufuli turned local performers into national champions through public backing, Tinubu’s endorsement of Kaduna’s projects shores up Uba Sani’s legitimacy and drowns out partisan distractions.

Secondly, infrastructure is increasingly the most eloquent language of modern politics. Uba Sani’s delivery of township roads, a state-of-the-art hospital, and world-class training institutes is a deliberate strategy. These are not abstract policy statements. They are concrete conversations with the people — a model reminiscent of Ethiopia’s Meles Zenawi, whose infrastructure-first approach redefined governance in the Horn of Africa.

Another vital lesson is the shift from speeches to skills as a tool to tackle unemployment. The newly commissioned Institute of Vocational Training and Skills Development, which arms Kaduna’s youths with practical expertise in agriculture, digital technologies, and trades, reflects a pragmatic shift from theory to livelihood. Rwanda’s national pivot to TVET under Kagame mirrors this — a transition from education for prestige to education for productivity.

The fourth takeaway is that infrastructure can also be therapeutic. The reconstruction of the Tudun Biri Road and the foundation-laying of a skills centre in that historically wounded community were not just projects — they were acts of healing. This mirrors Rwanda’s post-genocide strategy of embedding reconciliation into development, reminding us that sometimes, asphalt and mortar carry more than vehicles; they carry dignity.

Fifth, the Kaduna tour proves that when egos are buried and priorities align, intergovernmental collaboration becomes magic. The seamless synergy between the Federal and Kaduna State Governments is not just functional — it’s transformational. Kenya offers a continental parallel. Under President Kenyatta, when the counties and central government collaborated, health and transport infrastructure reached the most underserved zones with stunning speed.

The launch of 100 new CNG buses during the visit also carries wider resonance. These vehicles aren’t just for movement — they are mobile safety nets, easing the burden of subsidy removal. Kaduna’s initiative parallels Senegal’s BRT model in Dakar, where transport isn’t just urban planning — it’s economic relief in motion.

Another key lesson from Tinubu’s visit is the power of visibility in reframing narratives. Where critics once questioned Uba Sani’s speed, the president’s tour has reset the storyline. The same dynamic played out in South Africa when Cyril Ramaphosa’s high-profile presence during regional crises repositioned governors as frontline responders rather than background actors.

Finally, no matter how transformative a government is, its work risks vanishing into silence without communication. Strategic visibility is what etches governance into public memory. Kaduna’s projects are now not only seen but discussed, debated, and defended — much like Ghana’s “One District, One Factory” initiative, which succeeded partly because it was as visible in headlines as it was on the ground.

As Nelson Mandela once declared, “Vision without action is merely a dream. Action without vision just passes the time. But vision with action can change the world.” Governor Uba Sani, backed by federal validation and driven by people-first governance, is proving that Kaduna is not only dreaming — it is building. And the continent is watching.

*Dambatta is Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Print Media

By Nasir Dambatta President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent visit to Kaduna was far more than a ceremonial rite. It was a defining moment of political endorsement, strategic symbolism, and developmental

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Enough of Distortions: Sen. Adeola is People’s Mandate for Ogun 2027

By Taofik Afonkara

In the game of politics, when a man begins to command genuine love from the people, build lasting structures, and deliver measurable impact, enemies of progress begin to shiver. That is the case today with Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, Yayi—a man whose unwavering commitment to the development of Ogun West and Ogun State by extension, has not only earned him the respect of the masses but also struck fear in the hearts of political jobbers who survive on manipulation and mischief.

Let us state the facts clearly, boldly, and unequivocally: no one—absolutely no one—stopped Senator Yayi from attending the Lisabi Festival or the Ojúde Ọba Festival. The insinuation that he was barred or sidelined is a fabrication rooted in fear, sponsored by elements whose political stock is depreciating daily. These events are not battlegrounds for power showmanship—they are cultural celebrations that Yayi respects deeply. If he chose not to attend, it was a decision made out of wisdom, guided by respected elders across the state and the country. It was not out of fear, rejection, or exclusion. Period.

Those reporting that security turned Senator Yayi back from attending Ojúde Ọba are spreading deliberate lies. Let the truth be known: Senator Yayi wasn’t even anywhere near Ogun State on that day. No one—not individuals, not institutions, and certainly not security agencies—can turn him back from going anywhere within Ogun State. That narrative is another pathetic attempt to mislead the public.

Also, the rumor that Yayi orchestrated a plan to be attacked during Lisabi Day is another wicked and senseless fabrication. There were no such plans, no such threats, and no such intentions. Yayi is of Ẹ̀gbá extraction, and no proud Egba son will ever lay a finger on one of their own. This ridiculous claim only exposes the desperation of those pushing it.

These are terrible and pathetic lies being sponsored by detractors—people who cannot match Senator Yayi’s popularity, vision, or performance, so they resort to blackmail and character assassination. But facts are stubborn, and truth cannot be buried.

On the matter of Lisabi Day, we must remind mischief-makers that Senator Yayi’s maternal roots in Egbaland are solid, traceable, and not subject to political approval or social media validation. No amount of propaganda can erase bloodline and heritage. As for Ojúde Ọba, the laughable claim that his removal as “Chairman of the Day” signals a decline is the clearest sign yet of how badly his detractors are grasping for straws. You cannot shame the man whose focus is delivery and destiny.

While enemies are busy cooking lies, Senator Yayi is busy cooking results. Let us talk facts: since assuming office as Senator representing Ogun West, he has delivered more impactful projects and interventions than many before him. From federal roads to health centers, ICT hubs, skill acquisition programs, transformers, classroom blocks, solar lights, and countless youth and women empowerment initiatives, Yayi’s record of service is not just visible—it is overwhelming.

That is why, across Yewa, Egba, Ijebu, and Remo, the verdict of the people is loud and unmistakable: Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola Yayi is the one they want as the next Governor of Ogun State. This is not a rented crowd movement. It is not a media stunt. It is the voice of a grateful people—echoing the desire for a man who gets results, not excuses. What he has done in Ogun West is a fraction of what he is prepared to do for the entire state.

To those still living in delusion, boasting about writing lists of Congresses and controlling party structures, we say this: politics has changed. The power now lies with the people—not godfathers. Ogun State has evolved beyond the era of backdoor deals and ego-driven manipulation. You can write all the lists you want, but you cannot rewrite the will of the people.

And to every supporter, loyalist, and well-meaning citizen watching the drama unfold, hear this: remain calm and unshaken. The storm around Yayi is not a sign of weakness—it is proof of strength. They fight who they fear. But we are not distracted. We are not deterred. And we are certainly not done.

Senator Solomon Adeola Yayi is not just a contender—he is the front-runner. The people have chosen. The mandate is clear. The mission is in motion.

Let it ring loud across Ogun State:
No one can stop Yayi. No force can derail destiny. No propaganda can alter providence.

*Taofik Afonkara writes from Ijebu Ode

By Taofik Afonkara In the game of politics, when a man begins to command genuine love from the people, build lasting structures, and deliver measurable impact, enemies of progress begin

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Yahaya Bello at 50: The Facts I Stumbled On

By Rotimi Durojaye

Very early on Wednesday, 18th June, 2025, I woke up to a message on some WhatsApp groups, saying that there would be no formal celebration of the 50th birthday anniversary of the immediate past Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello.

He would rather prefer to mark it privately, at his Abuja residence, as the day coincided with the birthday of one of his daughters, the message said.

At first, I wondered why he wouldn’t want to celebrate such a milestone, but then some comments on the groups mentioned the mood of the nation, particularly the sad Benue crisis, among others.

I was in Abuja for an advanced training programme and had an engagement around Asokoro, not far from the former Governor’s residence.

Whenever people talked about his residence, I always thought of Wuse Zone 4.

So when I saw the crowd and the very long queue of vehicles, I asked my bolt driver what was going on and he said they were all going to Yahaya Bello’s house.

“Today is Yahaya Bello’s 50th birthday anniversary. All the people that are trekking are going there. That man is a spirit. Kogi people no dey take am joke (Kogi people don’t joke with him),” he said.

I wondered again how people managed to convince others about the exact opposite of the situation of things just with the kind of propaganda that Nigerians like.

For 30 minutes, we were moving slowly, so I told the Bolt driver to stop, so I could satisfy the journalistic curiosity in me. I moved close to different people and asked them if they were invited for a birthday bash.

I didn’t go straight to the point so that I would get the true picture.

“They should have celebrated this birthday in a proper hall instead of inviting people to his residence and causing gridlock like this,” I said.

“They did not invite us o. But White Lion cannot be 50 years and he will say we should not come. We came to celebrate him on our own. Even if we don’t see him, one on one, we have satisfied ourselves that we came to celebrate him. We will post ourselves on Facebook,” one of those that I met dancing to the music they were playing themselves, said.

“They sent a notice that they are not celebrating. That is their own. 50 years? We will celebrate him on our own o. I even thought GYB was 70 years, with all the achievements he has recorded,” another said.

I went round, they were all so full of praises, counting all what he had done for the state, and saying that, though he chose a wonderful successor, they did not think anyone could impact the lives of people like Yahaya Bello did.

So, I told the Bolt guy to find his way back and called one of my bosses, a Managing Director of a national newspaper, who has links with the former Governor to please help me gain access to the residence.

I wanted to see the birthday boy and introduce myself.

I also wanted to apologise for some wrong impression in the past.

I pushed through the crowd, and after about 15 minutes, someone came out of the compound to let me in. But there was hardly space to put my feet even in the compound. At last, I was ushered in. This was around 5pm. No space to sit. I just stood somewhere.

To cut this long story short, the array of former ministers, sitting ministers, former and sitting senators, traditional rulers, federal representatives, House of Assembly members, all from the three senatorial districts of the state, showed the kind of influence Yahaya Bello has in his state, perhaps not really known outside.

I probed further and was told that beyond the propaganda by some people who want to make themselves popular by all means and beyond the bitter politics in Kogi, everyone knows that what Yahaya Bello has achieved in eight years, in terms of infrastructural development, in health, education and other critical sectors, including security, no Governor has gone near since the creation of the state.

I listened to goodwill messages, one after the other, even from those we thought were unrepentant enemies during the 2023 election, and I came to the conclusion that truly, former Governor Yahaya Bello is a hero of all times.

But before I end this short piece, I must say I left there unhappy.

I couldn’t meet the former governor, one on one, or take a picture with him. No one also served me food, probably because I was standing all through!

The last sentence is on a lighter note.

Finally, I wish the White Lion many more years of fulfilled dreams.

*Durojaye, a journalist, was the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to former Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State between 2015 and 2019.

By Rotimi Durojaye Very early on Wednesday, 18th June, 2025, I woke up to a message on some WhatsApp groups, saying that there would be no formal celebration of the