Month: May 2025

APPEAL COURT UPHELD OKPEBHOLO’S VICTORY AT TRIBUNAL.

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…Appeal Court Lashes PDP, Candidate, Before Striking Out Their Appeal   By Sebastine Ebhuomhan   Thursday, 29th May, 2025. Abuja. All Progressives Congress (APC)-elected governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, the man ex-governor Godwin Obaseki as well as his godson and candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Asuerinme Ighodalo, both loath to admit as a master and better strategist, defeated them for the third time on Thursday as the Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja affirmed Okpebholo’s free, fair, credible, peaceful and populous election victory. Delivering a most anticipated judgement on all the appeals and cross-appeal filed against the election of Okpebholo, the appellate court’s three-member panel of judges unanimously struck out all the appeals for lack of merit and inability to sustain arguments to prove allegations of malpractices and over-voting, particularly lashing the main petitioners, Ighodalo and the PDP, for taking a gamble with their meaningless appeals. Okpebholo, who scored 291, 667 votes to defeat the runner-up, Asuerinme Ighodalo of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) with 247, 655 votes in the Saturday, 21st September, 2024 governorship election, had also unanimously defeated Ighodalo and the two other appellants at the Election Petitions Tribunal that sat in both Benin City, Edo State and later Abuja, Federal Capital Territory. There were three appeals and one cross-appeal for the day’s judgment. Okpebholo had a cross-appeal marked: CA/ABJ/EPT/ED/GOV/04/2025 that opposed Ighodalo’s appeal marked: CA/ABJ/EPT/ED/GOV/01/2025. The other two appeals were filed by the Action Alliance (AA) through its National Chairman, Rufai Omoaje, and the Accord Party (AP) through its candidate Bright Enabulele. The court opted to consolidate all the appeals as one against the cross-appeal. Beginning with the cross-appeal filed by the respondent/appellant, Okpebholo, the court allowed his cross-appeal after admitting that it was filed timeously and transmitted within the time limit under Sections 167 and 169 of the Evidence Act and after also admitting the cross-appeal’s objection to the admissibility of 133 BIVAS machines, which the appellants tactically did not open to prove their allegations at the tribunal even when Ighodalo tendered them as prime evidence. The court highlighted the appellant/respondents for their inability to sustain their arguments with relevant witnesses by their deliberate refusal to call relevant witness. Importantly, the court nailed them for pleading no relief, especially as “the court has no jurisdiction to grant to a petitioner any relief that was not pleaded.” The court further underlined the fact of the appellants’ failure to tabulate their correct score after everything, obviously because they were not sure of their votes. Delivering his judgement, Honourable Justice Mohammed Danjuma said, “There is no merit in this appeal. This appeal is hereby struck out. It would be right if we had dismissed it, not merely striking it out. As you can see in this appeal, it was simply a gamble.” Speaking immediately after the judgement, Edo PDP Chairman, Anthony Aziegbemi, who represented Ighodalo in court, disagreed with the Appeal Court judges and the judiciary. He said the party’s lawyers would obtain and copiously study the judgment before heading to the apex court. “We will file an appeal at the Supreme Court after studying the judgment.” Reacting to the victory, Governor Okpebholo called on Ighodalo to accept to the judgment of the Court of Appeal that, once again, affirmed his victory. “The Court of Appeal, in its well-considered judgment delivered on Thursday, meticulously reviewed the arguments presented by all parties and ultimately upheld the decision of the lower tribunal, validating the overwhelming mandate freely given to me by the people of Edo State. “This judgment, being a confirmation of the people’s will, should serve as a clear signal for all political actors, especially Asue Ighodalo, who has since been abandoned by his political godfather, Godwin Obaseki, to set aside partisan differences and join hands with the administration to build a more prosperous Edo State. “This ruling is not just a victory for our party, the ruling All Progressives Congress, but a triumph for democracy and the rule of law in our Edo State.” Okpebholo, who was represented in court by his deputy, The Right Honourable Dennis Idahosa and his party leaders ably led by Edo APC Secretary, Mr. Lawrence Okah, commended the judiciary for its diligence and commitment to justice before urging all citizens to be calm and law-abiding. In a review, Edo State Attorney-General and Commissioner of Justice, Dr. Samson Osagie lauded Appeal Court Justices and the Judiciary for painstakingly analysing the legal submissions of all the parties to the appeals. The appellate judgement, Right Honourable Osagie added, has further dispensed justice to the matter in favour of the governor of Edo State and the people of the state in general. He called on Governor Okpebholo to continue the pursuit of his development agenda for the state while urging all well-meaning people of the state to support the governor in his patriotic determination to make the reality of a new Edo State. Mr. Sebastine EBHUOMHAN is an award-winning journalist and a media consultant from Edo State, who freely supported Monday Okpebholo to become governor. He can be reached on: usie007@yahoo.com and 08037204620.

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AKPOTI UDUAGHAN REMAINS FULLY COMMITTED TO DUE PROCESS _ LEGAL TEAM.

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The legal team of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan on Tuesday urged law enforcement and prosecutorial bodies to uphold fairness, the rule of law and impartial justice in all matters involving the Kogi Central representative. “Justice must be impartial. The ongoing refusal to investigate Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s petitions- many of which implicate key figures and address critical safety concerns – undermines public confidence in due process. The public expects law enforcement and prosecutorial bodies to uphold fairness, the rule of law and impartial justice in all matters involving her”. The legal team also upbraided the country’s enforcement and prosecutorial bodies for the disparity in attention to petitions. ‘’Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s serious complaints remain ignored, counter petitions by Senator Godswill Akpabio and former Governor Yahaya Bello – individuals named in her original allegations – have been swiftly acted upon, leading to a criminal charge against her. This selective response raises deep concerns about biased enforcement of justice’’. In a statement issued by the Queens Law Cradle, a firm of legal practitioners, arbitrators and consultants, the legal team expressed Akpoti-Uduaghan’s commitment to legal progress. ‘’Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan is currently out of the country on personal engagements but remains fully committed to due process. In our capacity as part of her legal team, we have received official communication regarding the charges and she will make herself available at the earliest opportunity once an arrangement date is confirmed’’. Between March 11 and May 19, 2025, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan filed twelve formal petitions addressing serious threats to her safety, defamatory conduct and unlawful actions against her. These petitions, submitted either personally or through legal representatives, have received no substantive response from the Nigeria Police Force or relevant authorities. Furthermore, her witnesses have yet to be invited for clarification or adoption of their complaints. The statement signed by Nwogwugwu Esq listed March 11, 2025 – Petition to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) regarding cyber stalking, hate speech and discriminatory conduct by Senator Peter Onyekachi Nwebonyi, March 25, 2025, – Personal petition to the IGP raising security concerns about Senator Godswill Akpabio, March 31, 2025 – Petition to the IGP on the withdrawal of police security detail and immediate safety risks, April 4, 2025 –Petition exposing an assassination plot implicating Senator Akpabio and Former Governor Yahaya Bello, April 24, 2025 – Legal request for status updates on prior petitions, emphasizing abduction and security threats, April 28, 2025 – Petition on conspiracy, abduction and attempted assassination of her protocol officer, Hon Jude Sule and April 29, 2025 – Internal Police Communication on abduction, threats, instructing investigation by the DCP Monitoring Unit. Others are May 2, 2025 – Petition detailing cyberstalking and Defamation by Senator Nwebonyi, May 6, 2025 – Petition addressing cyberbullying and misrepresentation by Dr Sandra Duru, May 15, 2025 – Petition citing criminal conspiracy and defamation by Senator Akpabio and Dr Duru, May 19, 2025 – Petition to the Attorney-General of the Federation on police failure to investigate earlier complaints and May 19, 2025 – Additional Petition to the IGP reiterating concerns over non-investigation of cases involving Senator Akpabio. The statement praised Nigerians for condemning the action of the Federal Government. ‘’We are encouraged that citizens are publicly condemning the latest development wherein the Federal Government has instead of ensuring that our client is accorded justice now filed an extremely curious criminal charge against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan”. ‘’Our client expresses deep gratitude as she continues to be positive that injustice against her shall not be sustained” the statement added. QUEENS LAW CRADLE LEGAL PRACTITIONERS, ARBITRATORS, CONSULTANTS www.queenlawcradle.com CURIOUS MATTERS ARISING FROM CRIMINAL CHARGES AGAINST SENATOR NATASHA AKPOTI-UDUAGHAN BY THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT Between March 11 and May 19, 2025, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan filed twelve formal petitions addressing serious threats to her safety, defamatory conduct and unlawful actions against her. These petitions, submitted either personally or through legal representatives, have received no substantive response from the Nigeria Police Force or relevant authorities. Furthermore, her witnesses have yet to be invited for clarification or adoption of their complaints. For transparency, the pending petitions are as follows: March 11, 2025 – Petition to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) regarding cyber stalking, hate speech and discriminatory conduct by Senator Peter Onyekachi Nwebonyi March 25, 2025, – Personal petition to the IGP raising security concerns about Senator Godswill Akpabio March 31, 2025 – Petition to the IGP on the withdrawal of police security detail and immediate safety risks April 4, 2025 –Petition exposing an assassination plot implicating Senator Akpabio and Former Governor Yahaya Bello April 24, 2025 – Legal request for status updates on prior petitions, emphasizing abduction and security threats April 28, 2025 – Petition on conspiracy, abduction and attempted assassination of her protocol officer, Hon Jude Sule April 29, 2025 – Internal Police Communication on abduction, threats, instructing investigation by the DCP Monitoring Unit May 2, 2025 – Petition detailing cyberstalking and Defamation by Senator Nwebonyi May 6, 2025 – Petition addressing cyberbullying and misrepresentation by Dr Sandra Duru May 15, 2025 – Petition citing criminal conspiracy and defamation by Senator Akpabio and Dr Duru May 19, 2025 – Petition to the Attorney-General of the Federation on police failure to investigate earlier complaints May 19, 2025 – Additional Petition to the IGP reiterating concerns over non-investigation of cases involving Senator Akpabio. DISPARITY IN ATTENTION TO PETITIONS Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s serious complaints remain ignored, counter petitions by Senator Godswill Akpabio and former Governor Yahaya Bello – individuals named in her original allegations – have been swiftly acted upon, leading to a criminal charge against her. This selective response raises deep concerns about biased enforcement of justice. CALL FOR FAIRNESS AND JUSTICE Justice must be impartial. The ongoing refusal to investigate Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s petitions- many of which implicate key figures and address critical safety concerns – undermines public confidence in due process. The public expects law enforcement and prosecutorial bodies to uphold fairness, the rule of law and impartial justice in all matters involving her. COMMITMENT TO LEGAL PROGRESS Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan is currently out of

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APPEAL COURT DECIDES EDO ELECTION TODAY

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Ighodalo faces insurmountable odds against affirmation of Okpebholo   By Sebastine Ebhuomhan   Thursday, 29th May, 2025. Abuja. The Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja will today decide all the appeals filed on the governorship election of Edo State. The election that held on Saturday, 21st September, 2024, was won by Senator Monday Okpebholo, whom the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) returned as duly elected state governor. To resolve all legal contentions for a sound judgment, the three-member Court of Appeal panel led by Honourable Justice Mohamed Danjuma would consider the merits of three appeals and a cross-appeal. Governor Okpebholo, of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), who scored 291, 667 votes in the election to defeat the runner-up, Asuerinme Ighodalo of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) with 247, 655 votes, and who had also unanimously defeated Ighodalo and two other appellants at the Election Petitions Tribunal, has a cross-appeal marked: CA/ABJ/EPT/ED/GOV/04/2025 contending against Ighodalo’s appeal marked: CA/ABJ/EPT/ED/GOV/01/2025 and the appeal of the Action Alliance (AA)’s as well as its National Chairman, Rufai Omoaje, and the appeal of the Accord Party (AP)’s Bright Enabulele. At the hearing of the appeals on 15th May, lawyers for the appellants prayed the court to allow their appeals and reverse the unanimous judgments of the tribunal delivered on 2nd April. Counsel for Ighodalo and the PDP, Robert Emukpoeruo, SAN, disputed the tribunal’s demand for evidence of polling agents as witnesses to prove how forms were filled or not filled by insisting that there was no record of serial number on Form EC25B as required by Section 73(2) of the Electoral Act, 2022. He further faulted the tribunal’s claim that Ighodalo simply dumped documents on it by maintaining that his clients only challenged the collation of results at the ward level. On the other hand, Okpebholo’s lawyers urged the court to affirm the tribunal judgment and dismiss all the appeals since they have failed to prove their allegations of over-voting, irregularities etc. Particularly, Okpebholo’s lawyer, Oyinyechi Ikpeazu, SAN, argued that contrary to the appellants’ claim that serial numbers were not filled in Form EC25B, the form actually had no provision for filling serial numbers. He explained that then forms only had spaces for imputation of information regarding the quantity received and the quantity returned. Ikpeazu stated that Form EC40A, which the appellants pleaded and tendered showed serial numbers of the ballot papers were clearly indicated just as he underlined that while the appellants pleaded Form EC25D in their petition, they failed woefully to tender the forms before the tribunal. He concluded that ward collation officers are not bound by the results uploaded to iRev where there is over-voting and, thereafter, urged the court to uphold Okpebholo and APC’s cross-appeal. In his arguments for the APC, Emmanuel Ukala, SAN, insisted that the position of the law remains the same even with the introduction of Sections 73(2) and 137 of the Electoral Act, 2022 that a petitioner alleging any form of non-compliance must prove the allegations with the evidence of witnesses from affected polling units and concluded that Ighodalo failed woefully to lead sufficient evidence to prove their case. Appearing for INEC, Kanu Agabi, SAN, also prayed the court to dismiss the appeals of the appellants and affirm the judgment of the tribunal. Following from the solidity of arguments and counter-arguments, it is crystal clear that the ambition of Ighodalo and his appellant-friends to return Edo State to the PDP is a herculean task that seems impossible. While it is indubitable that public angst from Obaseki’s ingratitude and dictatorship fuelled the overwhelming victory of APC in Edo State, Ighodalo confronts insurmountable odds to overturn Okpebholo’s popular election at the Court of Appeal.   Mr. Sebastine EBHUOMHAN is an award-winning journalist and a media consultant from Edo State, who freely supported Monday Okpebholo to become governor. He can be reached on: usie007@yahoo.com and 08037204620.

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KEYAMO REITERATES IMPORTANCE OF ROBUST AERONAUTICAL INFORMATION MANAGEMENT.

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  CHUKS OKOH As aviators light up Abuja as Nigeria hosts first IFAIMA global conference, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo has emphasized the importance of Aeronautical Information Management in ensuring safe, regular, and efficient air navigation. In his opening address at the  Global Aeronautical Information Management (AIM) Conference 2025, themed “Digital AIM for a Safe and Efficient Global Air Navigation System,” holding in Abuja, Keyamo called for innovation and collaboration in the aviation sector. Keyamo highlighted the need for a robust aeronautical information ecosystem, citing the critical role that information collection, collation, and application play in ensuring safe, timely, and seamless flight operations. He also stressed the importance of embracing change and innovation in the pursuit of excellence, noting that the aviation industry is continuously evolving. The Minister emphasized the need for a well-trained and highly motivated workforce that can deliver the highest level of service that is globally accepted and in line with ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs). He further highlighted the importance of adequate and quality training of AIM Officers, citing the role of human factors in aviation safety. Engr. Farouk Ahmed Umar, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), in turn emphasized the strategic importance of AIM in modern air navigation, noting that AIM has evolved from paper-based systems into an intelligent, digital, and interconnected pillar of the global air traffic management system. Farouk highlighted NAMA’s commitment to digital transformation, citing initiatives such as the implementation of the Aeronautical Information Management Automation Project (AIMAP) and the development of the National AIM Roadmap in alignment with the ICAO Global Air Navigation Plan. He also emphasized the importance of capacity building for AIM professionals in data integrity, quality assurance, and cyber resilience. “The take home is that the conference provided a platform for industry stakeholders to share experiences, expertise, and best practices in Aeronautical Information Management. The event also drove progress and improvement in the aviation industry, with a focus on safety, infrastructure development, and support for local operators. As the conference climaxed, it is expected that it has provided a platform for industry stakeholders to collaborate, innovate, and shape the future of Aeronautical Information Management. With the theme “Digital AIM for a Safe and Efficient Global Air Navigation System,” the conference explored innovative approaches to AIM, including the use of System Wide Information Management (SWIM) to enhance efficiency” Hosting the Global AIM 2025 conference is a testament to Nigeria’s growing reputation as a major player in the global aviation industry. The event  promoted aviation safety, efficiency, and sustainability, with a focus on digital transformation and innovation in Aeronautical Information Management. And in appreciating a successful conference, Ms. Olufunmilayo Adeyemi, President of the International Federation of Aeronautical Information Management Associations (IFAIMA),  highlighted the growing importance of AIM across all regions of the world. Adeyemi emphasized the significance of the conference, noting that it was the first time IFAIMA’s flagship event was being hosted in the ICAO WACAF (Western and Central African) region. She expressed gratitude to the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Keyamo, for his support and endorsement of the conference. Chairman, organizing committee  for the conference, Comrade Kabir Yahaya Gusau, applauded the minister, the NAMA, other agencies and  corporate bodies  that made the conference very successful. The highly elated trade unionist,  popularly called ‘My Regatds’ was very visible in his effort to ensure that all delegates are made comfortable, even as he expressed so much delight in the way and manner participants conduct themselves in the course of the conference.

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RICHMOND OMAGBEMI AT 62: CELEBRATING A COLOSSUS AT UNIDEL

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By Igbotako Nowinta “The emergence of Barr. Richmond Jolomi Omagbemi, as a prominent and influential figure at University of Delta, Agbor, was a gradual and explosive process. With extraordinary synergy he enjoys with the highly cerebral Vice – Chancellor, Prof. Stella Chiemeke, he has over the years translated collective formulated ideas into concrete language of practice within this ivory tower. Barr Richmond Omagbemi at 62, has elevated himself into the status of a colossus as a result of his unparalleled commitment to service and ability to rise above challenges. What this writer has seen is sheer responsibility, administrative maturity being personified by the Registrar”   The then Governor of Delta State, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa signed a Bill into law in 2021, that heralded the establishment of University of Delta, Agbor. Thus, the appointment of Prof Stella Chinye Chiemeke as the pioneer Vice Chancellor of the University in 2021, became a glaring reality. Barr. Richmond Jolomi Omagbemi’s appointment as the Registrar also in 2021, was a fact because he had established himself as a vision of service, having shown what is possible with focus, grit and brilliance at the University of Benin (UNIBEN), as a rugged impactful administrator. Therefore, in 2021, he was ready to thread the rope of the university’s registrar ship, believing that the environment is supposed to be a dynamic social engineering mechanism, and a proper means towards building generations of vibrant graduates. And being a legal super weight and a scholar in Public Administration, he had distanced himself from narrow pragmatic interpretations, and attached great importance and significance to the development of his mind, a development which has successfully robbed positively on the progress being recorded at the University of Delta. It is clear that Barr. Richmond Omagbemi has demonstrated the ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize duties, and maintain accurate records; ensuring accuracy in student records, transcripts, and other documents; effective interaction with students, faculty, and staff, both verbally and in writing; ability to supervise and guide staff, make informed decisions, and implement policies; familiarity with student information systems, databases, and software; maintaining confidentiality and handling sensitive information with discretion; contributing to the development of policies and procedures that support the university’s mission. An irreconcilable opponent of laziness and non – chalance, testimonies abound of his constant push for digitalization of official records, recalibration of policies towards sophisticated development of the university, and the promptitude has redefined administrative commitments. A proof of this fact came up during the recent Monthly Training programme for Administrative, Executive and Secretarial Staff of the university, which took place at the 1000 Capacity Hall, Main Campus, where Barr. Omagbemi urged staff to prove themselves as engine room of administration. According to the Registrar: “As the engine room of administration, you are expected to prove your worth. Get work done on time, ensure that plans are executed, and ensure smooth coordinating of faculty activities”. It is imperative to look at the meaning of the word colossus. A colossus is a massive statue, often of a person or mythical figure, like the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World: The term “colossus” can also describe someone who has immense power, influence, or talent in their field. In a broader sense, “colossus” can represent anything enormous, powerful, or awe-inspiring, like a colossal achievement or a colossal challenge. The emergence of Barr. Richmond Jolomi Omagbemi, as a prominent and influential figure at University of Delta, Agbor, was a gradual and explosive process. With extraordinary synergy he enjoys with the highly cerebral Vice – Chancellor, Prof. Stella Chiemeke, he has over the years translated collective formulated ideas into concrete language of practice within this ivory tower. Barr. Richmond Omagbemi at 62, has elevated himself into the status of a colossus as a result of his unparalleled commitment to service and ability to rise above challenges. What this writer has seen is sheer responsibility, administrative maturity being personified by the Registrar. This man who is inescapably drawn to the vortex of integrity and excellence has lifted himself to a new zone of administrative distinction, a development offering students and workers fantastic opportunities to rededicate themselves to their studies and duties. Barr. Richmond Omagbemi’s registrar ship of University of Delta, so far is a reminder that greatness often begins in the shadow, even as his antecedents in University of Benin (UNIBEN), speaks volumes about his resourcefulness and absolute dedication to official duties. This piece is specifically written to congratulate and celebrate Barr. Richmond Jolomi Omagbemi, the Registrar, University of Delta, Agbor, at 62, as the Almighty God added another year to his meritorious life on May 16th, 2025. Congratulations to a super Registrar! Because the Registrar has lived his life like a meteor at the University of Delta, Agbor, I hereby conclude here by quoting the timeless words of Jack London, in his book titled: “I Would Rather Be a Meteor”. According to the legendary writer: “I would rather be ashes than dust! I would rather that my spark should burn out in a brilliant blaze than it should be stifled by dry-rot. I would rather be a superb meteor, every atom of me in magnificent glow, than a sleepy and permanent planet. The function of man is to live, not to exist. I shall not waste my days trying to prolong them. I shall use my time. Up to a certain point, it is necessary for a man to live his life in the world in which he finds himself, and to make the best of it. But beyond that point, he must create a world of his own…Let us make the most of that time, and let us burn brightly, like meteors across the night sky, leaving behind us a trail of light and inspiration for those who come after us”. Nowinta Igbotako, a serial author, media consultant, is Assistant Registrar @ University of Delta, Agbor: 08078703947

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” IF NIGERIANS SUPPORT PRESIDENT TINUBU, HE WOULD FOREVER BE ACCLAIMED FATHER OF MODERN DAY NIGERIA” _ GODDY OKOYO

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Nigerians have been advised to come together to support Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the nation’s president, thus asserting that it is the only way the country could swing back from the social, political and economic challenges facing the people, adding that the total support, if given to him, could set the country aright, where Tinubu may forever be revered as a father of modern-age Nigeria. The call was made via a press statement given to journalists in Benin City, the Edo State capital, by Mr Goddy Francis Okoyo (GFO), a Canadian based Chartered Accountant, Management Consultant and a Behavioural Scientist. The advise to Nigerians is at the instance of the second anniversary of the president’s swearing-in as leader of the country, which is expected to be celebrated with pomps. On 29th May, 2023, Asiwaju Tinubu was sworn in as president of the African most populous nation and one of the continent’s economic hubs, on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), after which there was a titanic legal tussle over the authentic winner of the presidential election, amongst the two candidates of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP), in which the Tinubu’s APC was declared winner. But Okoyo, a stalwart of the state chapter of APC, from Ugboha Ward of Esan South East Local Government Area of the state, particularly observed that Tinubu, judging from his enviable past as a pro-democracy activist and now a president-reformer, could revive the country to buoyancy, like Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, a late leader of Turkey, for which he is still remembered as a principal architect of the Mediterranean European nation. “Nigerians are living witnesses to the unrelenting efforts of Mr. President, to stem the blizzards of inherited challenges, with his significant policies and reforms”. Rationalised Okoyo, a leading light in the diaspora activities, that have greatly contributed to the rapid growth of his home-state and Nigeria, through increased diaspora remittances and investment etc. Okoyo, more known for his acronym of GFO, urged the President not to relent, but further strive to give Nigerians the best of governance, saying that posterity will judge him right for doing so. GFO is also a grassroots mobilizer and strong campaigner, who in the past served variously as a member of the medical sub-committee of the 2023 APC National Convention, media committee of the Edo State APC Presidential Campaign Council and director of Diaspora on the 2024 Governorship Campaign Council of the state.

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AFTER NANTA VISITS , THE TURKEY AMBASSADOR ANNOUNCES EASE OF VISA REGIME, TARGETS TRADE BOOST WITH NIGERIA.

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  CHUKS OKOH. Barely a week after the leadership of National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) returned from a trade penetration and visa regime advocacy visit to Istanbul, supported Türkiye Airlines, the Ambassador of the Türkiye to Nigeria, Mr. Mehmet Poroy announced that the stringent visa ecosystem of Türkiye would henceforth be eased to encourage travel, tourism, and trade between the two countries. NANTA, led by the president, Mr. Yinka Folami, during the Istanbul trade tour, had impressed it on the minds of the Turkish Travels Association Leadership (TURSAB) that the visa regimes of the Türkiye nation are hurting trade and tourism visits by Nigerians and solicited interventions by the influential Türkiye travel trade  group to ease the pain. Speaking at the Turkiye culinary week in Abuja last week, the Ambassador stated that his country would relax the visa regime, noting that Nigeria and Türkiye have a lot to benefit from open trade in commerce and tourism, with Turkiye government targeting about five (5) billion US dollars trade boost, and a forty (40) billion US dollars target from the African continent, at  the implementation of ease of visa regimes and engagement by the two nations and Africa in general. NANTA President, excited by the response of the Türkiye Ambassador to Nigeria,  urged the Nigerian government to quickly address the visa regime concerns of the Türkiye travel trade and business community wishing to also visit and do business with Nigeria, reiterating NANTA’s desire and advocacy to open and invite the world to Nigeria. “We at NANTA are excited by the prompt response of the Türkiye Ambassador in Nigeria to our request during our marketing and promotion penetration visit to Istanbul.  We did not do this alone as we see the new development as a supportive gesture from the Turkish Travel Association leadership and Turkish Airlines management, and without their their support, our advocacy visit would have just been another wasted opportunity and rhetorics exercise.” Meanwhile, about ninety (90) registered members of the association arrived Banjul, Gambia in early hours of Tuesday morning to the warm embrace of the drummings of Cultural Troupe here, with the state immigration officials,  making sure the Nigerian travel trade professionals have a stress-free entry in the smiling coast of Africa. The group on a week training, training and retraining exposure expedition was flown into Gambia by Air Peace, the official carrier for the association,  which also announced other partners such as the Djeliba group – owners of four exclusive luxury beach resorts; the Kombo, the Tamala, Halifax, and the Balafon Apartment and Tanala Voyage. The Gambia Tourism Board is the host partner, while The Gambia Tourism and Hospitality Institute facilitated the training certification programme.

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SAHCO HOSTS STRATEGIC CARGO STAKEHOLDERS’ MEETING TO STRENGTHEN INDUSTRY COLLABORATION.

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CHUKS OKOH. Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) PLC has reiterated its commitment to advancing Nigeria’s cargo and aviation handling sector by successfully hosting a Cargo Stakeholders engagement.   The event served as a platform for meaningful engagement, collaboration, and strategic dialogue among SAHCO’s key clients in the cargo logistics value chain to promote trade and efficiency in the cargo industry. The gathering brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including clearing agents, exporters, logistics professionals, amongst others. Discussions focused on how to reposition Nigeria’s cargo industry as a central driver of economic diversification and how to support government initiatives for sustainable growth.   In her welcome remarks, the Managing Director/CEO of SAHCO, Mrs. Adenike Aboderin, who was represented by the Executive Director, Cargo Services, Mrs. Boma Ukwunna expressed her heartfelt appreciation to partners and stakeholders for their support over the years. She noted that the event was not only a celebration of the sector’s achievements but also a vital opportunity to share insights, identify challenges, and reinforce industry partnerships.   Honourable Bola Ashiru, Chairman of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), commended SAHCO for its investment in state-of-the-art infrastructure, particularly its cold storage facility, which he credited for improving the handling of temperature-sensitive goods and creating employment opportunities.   He emphasized the urgent need for Nigeria to reduce its overdependence on oil and elevate the cargo sector as a national economic priority. A representative of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) underscored the importance of embracing digital transformation. As port processes move toward full automation, the representative encouraged all industry participants to equip themselves with basic computer skills to remain competitive in a technology-driven environment.   In her remarks, Mrs. Boma Ukwunna, Executive Director of Cargo Services SAHCO, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to sustained investment in modern equipment and facilities. She highlighted that SAHCO currently operates some of the most advanced Ground Support Equipment (GSE) and warehousing solutions in the country, all designed to support efficient and compliant cargo operations.   Also at the event, other salient issues discussed included poor packaging standards of most exportable Nigerian product, how to improve packaging to compete with international markets and how to combat the challenges of the limitations in effective traceability systems to ensure accountability of products from origin to their final destination. Furthermore, lack of formal training amongst clearing agents and freight forwarders was highlighted about how this has promoted inadequate documentation, unethical practices and touting.   It was emphasized that to promote efficiency in the cargo industry, there is need to ensure proper certifications are acquired by those who engage in the cargo industry to improve efficiency and industry reliability.   The Cargo Stakeholders’ Meeting also provided a unified platform to align objectives, promote sectoral reforms, and set a clear direction for the future of Nigeria’s cargo logistics industry. SAHCO remains at the forefront of innovation, operational excellence, and stakeholder engagement, driving growth and transformation across the air cargo value chain.

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NCAT TO ADDRESS INFRASTRUCTURE GAPS

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  CHUKS OKOH The Rector, Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria in Kaduna State, Dr. Danjuma Adamu  Ismaila has given assurance of the institution’s readiness to address the dearth in infrastructure in order to meet the surge in enrollment for the over 200 aviation industry programmes run by the college. Ismaila disclosed this yesterday at the opening session of the League of Airports and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC) Course on going in the college. He said despite some challenges , besides inadequate accommodation, the college is striving hard to position itself as the leading centre for manpower development in the country. He said the construction of a 150 room additional hostel is currently on , affirming that the management is concluding plans to acquire a Boeing 727 flight simulation facility to boost the recurrence training of pilots in the country. The rector said if many facilities are provided , there may be no need for aviation personnel to travel overseas for training given the capacity of the college to block the huge gap in training needs. He spoke of plans by the management to expand courses offered in the college to reflect evolving trends and technology in the global air travel space. He said NCAT is embarking on an aggressive carbon emission programme in line the directives rolled out by global aviation regulatory body: International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). He said the college by adopting environmental friendly sustainability programmes, carbon credits could be earned. The rector said the college has continued to achieve many feat with the training of scores of air traffic controllers from neighbouring countries in English Language , one of the requirements by ICAO. He said the college will continue to pursue decarbonization programmes by switching to solar and other sources of power and energy other than fossil fuels. In his remarks, Chairman of LAAC, Comrade Idris Suleiman urged NCAT management to continue to design programmes to meet the fast evolving trends for airlines, aviation agencies and other players in the value chain. The LAAC chairman said :” This gathering marks not just the start of another training session, but it is a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to excellence, capacity building, and responsible journalism within the aviation sector. “The role of aviation correspondents, particularly in an evolving industry like ours, cannot be overstated. You are the bridge between the industry and the public—the narrators of our progress, our challenges, and our aspirations. “This training course is therefore an opportunity to deepen understanding, strengthen professional ethics, and explore new trends in global aviation. Ladies and gentlemen! The global aviation industry has in recent times, witnessed fluctuations and undeniable changes in the level of patronage, expectations and realignments. Airlines and regulatory authorities have had to review business decisions and policies. The toughness of the global economy was reflected in aircraft fleet renewals, cancellation of aircraft orders, changes in delivery dates by manufacturers and other effects. “Back home in Nigeria, despite the challenges of excruciating airlines operating cost, operational and environmental constraints, more local airlines have received Air Operators’ Certificates within the last one year according to the NCAA while some other AOCs are being processed. “The vision of investment in airports in the form of concessions is being piloted by the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development. These and other developments call for more training in the sector and they represent more opportunities for NCAT to harvest the ripe field of training adventures in the industry. “As a nation, there exist opportunities for Nigeria to make progress in terms of its aviation development. LAAC therefore wishes to use this forum in the spirit of patriotism, to appeal to the various stakeholders and aviation authorities in the country to sustain their commitment towards the overall development of the sector. “We live in a time when aviation is undergoing rapid transformation—driven by technology, sustainability goals, safety imperatives, and an increasingly interconnected world. As such, it is critical that aviation journalists are equipped not only with factual accuracy but also with a nuanced appreciation of the technical and policy frameworks that govern this dynamic industry. “Having undergone this training over and over, you can confirm that the difference in the knowledge and skills gathered from this training has to a large extent, reflected significantly in our coverage and reportage of the industry events continuously. “We are confident that this years’ training will further boost professionalism in our reportage and practice as aviation media practitioners and journalists while further empowering us to play our role as the fourth estate of the realm. ‘I  make bold to say that the entire aviation industry in Nigeria has benefited immensely from the relationship between LAAC and NCAT over the years. It is on this basis that I wish to reassure you that LAAC will continue to support NCAT in pursuing its goals and objectives and ensuring that NCAT asserts its rightful position in the global aviation training market. “Rector Sir, I will not end this speech without commending you, the entire management of NCAT for the unhidden improvements in infrastructure around the college. But there is still room for improvements though as we have only stepped into the second quarter of the year 2025. I wish to also applaud the college for once again serving as a beacon of knowledge and technical expertise. “During our stay for this training, I appeal to our course lecturers, residents of NCAT and the Zaria community to accord us the usual hospitality that we have enjoyed over the years during the programme. “I encourage my colleagues and all participants to approach the training with curiosity, commitment, and an open mind. Engage fully, ask questions, and make the most of this valuable learning experience. The insights you gain here will not only enrich your reporting but also enhance public understanding and confidence in our aviation systems. I plead that we remain focused and demonstrate the expected level of discipline and good conduct during our stay. “On behalf of

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“TAJUDEEN ABAS BRING A BILL TO SANITIZE NIGERIA’S ELECTORAL ACTS NOT A BILL TO FORCE NIGERIANS TO VOTE ” _ IGBOTAKO

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Nowinta Tells Speaker, House of Representatives. The Speaker, House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has been challenged to dump his current bill that will make it mandatory for Nigerians to vote, and instead sponsor a new bill, which will comprehensively sanitize the Electoral Act. This patriotic call was made by a prominent Nigerian social critic, human rights and pro-democracy advocate, Comrade Igbotako Nowinta. Comrade Nowinta,  who is also the Executive Director, Nigeria Good Governance Research Centre,  (NGGRC), who doubles as an international conflict resolution expert, said “What Nigerians are seeing playing out in the National Assembly and in the board rooms of the rulling All Progressives Congress (APC), is a desperate and carefully orchestrated agenda to foist Bola Tinubu on Nigerian voters come 2027 Presidential Elections”. Meanwhile, a bill proposing mandatory voting in all elections for eligible Nigerians has successfully passed its second reading at the House of Representatives. The bill, was sponsored by Tajudeen Abbas, the Speaker of the House, and it was debated extensively during last Thursday’s plenary session, before it received overwhelming support to proceed to the next legislative stage. He said, “just last week the All Progressives Congress (APC) unanimously endorsed President Bola Tinubu for 2027 Presidential elections in a grand ceremony held in Abuja; just last week too, Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker, House of Representatives had his way in the House of Representatives, when the bill he sponsored was unanimously adopted through a voice vote and referred to the appropriate committee for further legislative action” “What Nigerians are seeing playing out in the National Assembly and in the board rooms of the rulling All Progressives Congress (APC), is a desperate and carefully orchestrated agenda, to foist Bola Tinubu on Nigerian voters come 2027 Presidential Elections, by hook or crook” “The Nigeria Good Governance Research Centre (NGGRC) is seeing a terrifying treachery being unleashed on the mass of our people with Tajudeen Abbas Bill; we see glaringly a desperate effort to bend reality on on one man (Tinubu’s) whim; a maddening chase of 2027 presidential elections, while our people continue to bow to pervasive injustice, mind – boggling corruption, hyper inflationary trends and neglect” “Instead of steady empowerment of our people via massive distribution of democratic dividends; instead of the likes of Tajudeen Abbas, to engage in the genuine sanitation of our electoral process, so that we can collectively access free, fair and credible elections in Nigeria, he is busy chasing shadows as a lackey of President Bola Tinubu, thereby blatantly disregarding and disrespecting the sensibilities of the pauperized masses” “It is agonizing to know that the current rulers of our country continue to subjugate our people in grinding poverty, unemployment and stark misery; it is sickening to know that this country is being significantly pillaged with a special viciousness unmatched yet in history, and Tajudeen Abbas is adding salt to our injury with this annoying bill” “Because Nigeria has become a place for experimentation of political nonsense and economic ruination, we hereby call on Tajudeen Abbas, to dump his vexatious bill and substitute it with a bill that will comprehensively sanitize the current Electoral Act in Nigeria. How do we comprehend a situation where the voting process is heavily compromised and tilted in favour of President Tinubu; and one Tajudeen Abbas is trying to force Nigerians to vote at all cost?” “A clan of sadistic monsters using corporatocracy to rob us blind, of soulless and greedy psychopaths, who care only about maintaining their own power, than helping the masses, must be stopped from having their way come 2027. In rejecting Tajudeen Abbas bill, patriotic Nigerians must reject these clueless trash calling themselves leaders; and must be resolute and prepare to take them down”.

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