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By Uzair Adam

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has refunded N4.4 billion to Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards across the 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and the Armed Forces, following service lapses during the 2023 Hajj.

In a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, NAHCON’s Head of Public Affairs, Malam Muhammad Musa, disclosed that the refund was specifically for electricity services that were inadequately provided during the Masha’ir (core Hajj period) by Saudi authorities.

Additionally, NAHCON has reimbursed N917.1 million to 192 accredited tour companies that participated in the pilgrimage, with instructions for the funds to be distributed to their respective pilgrims.

Further refunds to other participating tour operators will be made after necessary reconciliations.

“This refund demonstrates the Commission’s dedication to transparency and accountability under the leadership of its Chairman, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman,” Musa stated.

He advised pilgrims who took part in the 2023 Hajj to contact their respective State Pilgrims’ Welfare Agencies or tour operators to claim their refunds, with each pilgrim entitled to receive N61,080.

Looking ahead to the 2025 Hajj, NAHCON urged intending pilgrims to deposit their Hajj fares promptly to facilitate early arrangements in line with Saudi guidelines.

To ensure the refund process is handled transparently, the Commission has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and other relevant agencies to monitor the disbursement closely.

“This collaboration will help ensure that the funds reach the intended beneficiaries without discrepancies,” Musa added.

Dear President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,

I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. 

I commend you, Your Excellency, for the bold reforms implemented under your leadership, including removing fuel subsidies and unifying the exchange rate. 

As you continue to lead Nigeria through a critical period in our history marked by your far-reaching reforms, I feel compelled to address a critical issue that could significantly impact our nation’s progress and economic stability. 

In recent weeks, there have been reports that certain high-ranking presidential advisers are allegedly manipulating and forcing various regulatory agencies to intimidate and harass companies in the media, oil and gas, telecommunications, financial services, banking, fintech, and FMCG sectors. 

This behaviour undermines your administration’s efforts to create a conducive business environment and threatens Nigeria’s economic recovery.

Sir, if it is true that high-ranking officials within the government who should be doing all they can to deliver on your mandate are the same people who undermine it by continuing to exploit regulatory agencies for personal gain, we risk the exit of multinational corporations, the shutdown of local businesses that struggle to comply with arbitrary regulations aimed at stifling competition, and the erosion of investor confidence, etc. 

Mr. President, your commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s economy through your different policies and initiatives is commendable. However, these efforts must be supported by a transparent regulatory framework that protects businesses from undue harassment. 

I urge you to investigate these allegations and take decisive action against any misuse of power by government officials who seek to manipulate regulatory bodies for personal gain.

Reinforcing the independence of these agencies will not only protect businesses but also restore trust among stakeholders in the Nigerian economy. Your actions in response to these challenges will significantly influence our country’s direction in the coming years. 

I trust that you will consider this matter with the urgency it deserves.

Thank you for your service, Mr President.

Sincerely,

Adeola Adepoju

Jabi, Abuja

By Uzair Adam

The Senate of Bayero University, Kano (BUK), has extended the registration deadline by six weeks for students who sat for the First Semester examinations without completing their fee payments.

This decision was reached during the university’s 418th Senate meeting on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, following a recommendation by the Vice Chancellor.

In a statement issued on Friday, Lamara Garba, the Deputy Registrar and Head of Public Affairs, said the extension, effective from Thursday, November 28, 2024, will give affected students additional time to finalise their registration.

Garba warned that students who fail to pay within the extended period will be required to suspend their studies for the 2023/2024 academic session.

He also disclosed that the Senate has approved a suspension of studies for students who were unable to register or sit for the First Semester exams due to unforeseen circumstances.

“This decision highlights the university’s commitment to supporting students facing financial challenges,” Garba stated.

By Uzair Adam  

The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has announced plans to resume the collection of a $300 landing fee from helicopter operators across the country.  

Speaking at the 53rd Annual General Meeting of the Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers Association on Thursday in Kano State, the Director of Air Traffic Services, Tayo John, revealed the agency’s financial challenges and the need to implement the fee.  

Presenting a paper titled “Financial Constraints Affecting Nigeria’s Air Navigation Provision: Impact and Mitigation Strategies,” John explained that the Federal Government had previously directed the agency to suspend the fee, but NAMA is now determined to reintroduce it.  

“In the next few weeks, we will recommence the collection of the $300 landing fee from helicopter operators,” John stated.  

He added, “We started earlier, but the government directed us to halt it due to certain issues in the country. This time, however, there will be no further delays.”   

While the exact date for the fee enforcement was not disclosed, John noted that the measure is essential to alleviate NAMA’s financial constraints.

By Uzair Adam

Operatives of the Special Investigations Team (SIT) attached to the Force Criminal Investigations Department (FCID) Annex in Lagos State have apprehended one Chinedu Ngwaka, accused of orchestrating a fraudulent scheme valued at ₦320 million.

Ngwaka, who presented himself as a licensed Bureau De Change operator, allegedly used a counterfeit presidency number plate on his 2024 Toyota Hilux and carried a forged identity card supposedly issued by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.

This was disclosed on Wednesday by the Police Public Relations Officer of the FCID Annex in Lagos, Mayegun Aminat, through a post on her X handle, #mayegunAmina.

According to the statement, a petition was submitted on September 9, 2024, to the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, FCID Annex, by Chinedu Laz and Partners (Deo Gratia Chambers) on behalf of Mr. Tochukwu Unachukwu, the Managing Director of Casco Electronics Company Limited.

The petition accused Ngwaka and his wife, Janet Onyekachi Ngwaka, of defrauding Unachukwu of ₦320 million.

Following the petition, SIT detectives initiated an intelligence-led investigation.

Banking records were reviewed, and a warrant of arrest was secured, which later led to the detention of leading to Ngwaka.

Investigations revealed that between March and May 2024, Unachukwu transferred ₦320 million to Ngwaka’s companies, Edunaco Multiple Resources Limited and Bright Janes World, for the procurement of USD 200,000 to facilitate the supply of goods from China.

However, the Chinese suppliers confirmed they never received the funds, despite Ngwaka presenting fraudulent documents, including a telex confirmation from Zenith Bank, indicating the transactions were completed in two tranches of USD 100,000 each.

During the arrest, police recovered the black Toyota Hilux bearing a fake presidency number plate (02B679FG).

Further checks with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) revealed that Ngwaka had no affiliation with Phobia BDC Ltd., the company he claimed to represent, and that its license had been revoked earlier in the year.

The police also received additional petitions against Ngwaka, including claims from Mr. Moses Chizoba Enechukwu and Chinedu Nwaforcha, who alleged losses of ₦1 billion and ₦840 million, respectively.

Ngwaka and his accomplices will be charged to court upon the conclusion of the investigation.

Meanwhile, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, FCID Annex, has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any fraudulent activities to law enforcement agencies.

By Anwar Usman 

The Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Wale Adeniyi, has handed over 21 exotic cars worth over N8.1 billion to the Canadian government. 

The exotic vehicles include Rolls Royce, Labomgini Horicane, Mercedes-AMG and Range Rover. 

The comptroller explained that members of the syndicate stole vehicles from foreign countries and subsequently imported them into Nigeria using forged documents, adding that with the aid of the recently established Operations Hot Wheel, officers had recovered about 21 exotic cars from the criminal gang. 

Operation Hot Wheel comprises officers from the Nigeria Customs Service, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the Canadian government. 

Adeniyi revealed that all 21 vehicles were recovered with the aid of the Canadian government as well as the EFCC.Speaking at the official handing over of the stolen vehicles, the CGC stated the Nigeria Customs Service had doubled its operations against vehicle trafficking syndicates operating within the country’s borders. 

The CGC added that, “according to INTERPOL reports, West Africa has emerged as a renown destination hub in the global stolen vehicle trade network, which extends from Europe and North America to as far as South America and Australia.

This challenge is particularly acute in Nigeria”. Adeniyi also highlighted that available data according to National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reveals that between 2013-2015, only 54 per cent of stolen vehicles were recovered, noting that it shows the scale and sophistication of this criminal enterprise. 

“Recent intelligence from international law enforcement agencies further confirms that our region has become a preferred destination for internationally stolen vehicles, a trend that not only denigrate Nigeria’s international world view but also impacts our economy through substantial revenue losses and increased security spending” Adeniyi stated. 

“In order to combat these challenges, the Nigeria Customs Service came up with Operation Hot Wheels, a targeted enforcement initiative aimed at disrupting the flow of stolen vehicles into Nigeria through our ports and borders. Launched as a collaborative effort between the Nigeria Customs Service, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and Canadian authorities, the operation focused on intelligence sharing, coordinated surveillance, and strategic interdiction. 

“The operation’s primary objectives included identifying and intercepting stolen vehicles, dismantling trafficking networks, and strengthening international cooperation in tackling transnational vehicle theft. This multi agency approach was designed to leverage the unique capabilities and jurisdictional advantages of each participating organization,” Adenyi stated. 

According to him, criminals are now using various tactics, including false declarations and the use of containerised shipments, attempting to circumvent customs detection systems. 

He said the operation exposed how stolen vehicles were being smuggled through the nation’s ports using legitimate cargo as cover.

By Talent Bassey Akpan

Climate change is one of the most pressing issues facing the world today. Nigeria is particularly vulnerable to its effects due to its diverse ecosystems, economic reliance on agriculture, and significant population density. The changes in climate patterns have profound implications for Nigeria’s environment, economy, and public health, making it crucial for the country to understand and address these challenges effectively.

In Nigeria, climate change has led to erratic weather patterns, manifesting in extreme floods and prolonged droughts. Since the late 20th century, rainfall patterns across the country have become increasingly unpredictable. For instance, while some regions experience heavy rains resulting in severe flooding, others suffer from acute water shortages and drought, particularly in the north.

The fluctuations impact agricultural output, as farmers rely on predictable rainy seasons for planting and harvesting. Consequently, food security becomes compromised, increasing food prices and poverty levels.

Agriculture is the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, employing a significant portion of the population and contributing substantially to the GDP. However, climate change severely threatens agriculture, disrupting the growing conditions essential for crops and livestock. Changes in rainfall patterns can lead to crop failures while rising temperatures can reduce yields for staple crops like maize, cassava, and rice.

The situation is exacerbated by the fact that many Nigerian farmers employ traditional farming methods, leaving them ill-equipped to adapt to these rapid changes. As agricultural productivity declines, rural communities are further marginalized, leading to increased migration towards urban centres and creating additional strain on city resources.

The health implications of climate change in Nigeria are also far-reaching. Heatwaves, rising temperatures, and poor air quality can contribute to an increase in respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. In addition, changing weather patterns can spread vector-borne diseases, such as malaria and dengue fever, as the habitats for mosquitoes and other carriers expand.

Food insecurity and malnutrition resulting from agricultural decline may also lead to increased susceptibility to diseases and weakened immune systems, particularly among children and vulnerable populations.

In conclusion, the effects of climate change in Nigeria require a multifaceted approach, combining immediate action with long-term strategies. Efforts must include investment in climate-resilient agriculture, enhancement of water management practices, and promotion of sustainable land use. Furthermore, community awareness and education should be prioritized to prepare residents for potential climate impacts.

As Nigeria continues to grapple with the challenges posed by climate change, concerted efforts from the government, civil society, and international partners are essential to safeguard the future and ensure a sustainable environment for future generations. It is imperative for all stakeholders, including the citizens, to engage actively in combating this pressing global issue.

Talent Bassey Akpan wrote from Mass Communication, Bayero University, Kano.

By Uzair Adam

At the Federal High Court in Abuja, the trial of former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, took a new turn as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) presented evidence that N20 million earmarked for the Mambilla Hydro Power project was allegedly spent on personal accommodation.

The Daily Reality gathered that during Wednesday’s proceedings, presided over by Justice James Omotosho, retired Colonel Adebisi Adesanya, the third prosecution witness, revealed that Mamman used project funds to cover a year-long stay at Sami Court Resort Limited, a serviced apartment in Abuja.

Led in evidence by EFCC counsel A.O. Mohammed, Adesanya, who is also the resort’s Chief Security Officer and owner, testified that Mamman’s payments were made in installments deposited into the resort’s UBA account.

He identified “Exhibit PWC” as the invoice issued to Mamman after his N20 million payment, covering accommodation from August 30, 2021, to August 30, 2022, explaining that on September 6, 2021, N5 million was deposited by Golden Bond Nigeria Limited, followed by another N5 million from Mintedge Nigeria Limited on January 23, 2022. On March 9, 2022, Abdullahi Suleiman deposited N2.5 million, while the final installment of N7.5 million was made on May 10, 2022, by A.I.J Global Tools Limited.

According to Adesanya, the funds were used exclusively for a one-bedroom unit at the resort. Justice Omotosho adjourned the case to January 13, 2025, for further proceedings.

The EFCC is prosecuting Mamman on a 12-count charge of conspiracy and money laundering amounting to N33.8 billion.

By Uzair Adam

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned Yahaya Bello, the immediate past governor of Kogi State, before the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Maitama over an alleged N110 billion fraud.

Bello, who governed Kogi State from 2016 to 2024, was arraigned alongside two former state officials, Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, who are the second and third defendants in the case.

After they pleaded not guilty to the charges, Justice Maryann Anenih ordered the trio to be remanded in EFCC custody and set December 10 to rule on their bail applications.

The EFCC, represented by a team of lawyers led by Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, opposed their bail, citing Bello’s repeated failure to appear in a separate trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Joseph Daudu, SAN, leading Bello’s legal defense, argued that his client is presumed innocent under the law and requested bail to prepare a proper defense.

He also noted that Bello appeared in court in compliance with a summons served on him late on November 26. Pinheiro countered, arguing that the bail application was premature since it was filed before the defendants were formally arraigned, rendering it “incompetent.”

The EFCC’s charges, marked CR/7781, include conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and possession of unlawfully obtained property.

The Commission alleged that Bello misused state funds to acquire properties across Abuja, including: No. 35 Danube Street, Maitama (N950 million), no. 1160 Cadastral Zone C03, Gwarimpa II (N100 million) and no. 2 Justice Chukwudifu Oputa Street, Asokoro (N920 million).

Additional properties listed include locations in Wuse Zone 4 and a luxury apartment in Dubai. The EFCC also accused the defendants of transferring over $1.1 million to TD Bank in the United States and of possessing N677.8 million linked to Bespoque Business Solution Limited.

Meanwhile, Murtala Ajaka, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate in the last Kogi governorship election, expressed his willingness to provide evidence to the EFCC.

He applauded the agency’s actions and called for a comprehensive investigation into state finances during Bello’s tenure, from January 2016 to January 2024, to ensure justice and accountability.

By Lawal Dahiru Mamman 

Africa boasts an abundance of resources, with its vast landscapes from north to south and east to west teeming with diverse natural and mineral riches. These treasures have the potential to revolutionise the lives of its citizens. The continent’s human capital is equally impressive, harbouring 18.3%—approximately 1.5 billion—of the global population, making it the world’s second-most populous continent.

In truth, these natural resources gifted to Africa have not been fully harnessed for the benefit of its people. In some cases, resources in regions have ignited conflicts and even war, leaving people in bemoanable poverty and deprived of basic necessities like food and water, which are essential for human survival. This is in sharp contrast to the supposed envious rapid developments cities should be undergoing for urban and economic renaissance.

Ghana’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah, an enthusiastic advocate for the continent’s unity and independence, captured this problematic state of African nations when he said, “Africa is a paradox,” not without rhyme or reason but because “Her (Africa) earth is rich, yet the products that come from above and below the soil continue to enrich, not Africans predominantly.” 

Considering this age-long reality, leaders have repeatedly converged, deliberated, and mapped out strategies for development. Among many of these, Africa Agenda 2063 – a deliberate framework for socioeconomic transformation adopted by the African Union (AU) in 2015—and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)—an economic agreement aimed at creating a single unified market for Africa—remain the most talked about in the present. 

Little progress has been made with these well-thought-out agreements for nearly a decade. Recently, the Mandela Washington Fellowship Alumni Association of Nigeria (MWFAAN) announced its intention to host a ‘Pan-African Legacy Conference’ in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. 

The conference will commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Mandela Washington Fellowship, a brainchild of former United States President Barack Obama to enhance U.S.–Africa relations, particularly among young people. Since its inception, the fellowship has sent over 7,200 young Africans to the U.S. for six weeks of professional development and cultural exchange. 

Themed “Shaping Africa’s Future through the AfCFTA and Agenda 2063” aims to chart a path for the next 10 years, focusing on economic development in Africa. It will bring young people closer to decision-makers to bridge the gap between the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and youth entrepreneurs. It will also ensure access to trade opportunities across Africa and unite the government, nonprofit sector, and business leaders to create a comprehensive framework for sustainable development.

A ruckus has been raised in the fullness of time for youth to participate actively in governance for Africa’s development. This conference is a deliberate attempt by young people to engage policymakers and industry experts in solving our age-old predicament: failing to cater to our rapidly growing population.

Could this gathering sew the Gordian knot, freeing Africa from the shackles of stagnation and retrogression and guiding her towards prosperity? Tempus Omnia Revelat—the future holds the answer. 

As Kwame Nkuruma astutely observed, “It is clear that we must find an African solution to our problems and that this can only be found in African unity. Divided, we are weak; united, Africa could become one of the greatest forces for good in the world.”

If the Mandela Washington Fellowship Alumni Pan-African Legacy Conference will be a point of unity that proffers solutions and moves us towards economic liberation, so be it.

Lawal Dahiru Mamman writes from Abuja and can be reached via dahirulawal90@gmail.com.