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$500m Pipeline: The Numbers Behind FNITCC’s Global Push

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Two years ago, the City of Houston in the United States honoured a Nigerian initiative in a way that caught many by surprise. It officially proclaimed 25 October as Fidelity Nigeria International Trade and Creative Connect (FNITCC) Day. For Houston, a city with one of the largest Nigerian diasporas in America, this recognition, attached to how a single platform was helping to reshape trade and investment between Nigeria and the United States, was both a nod to the growing movement and an encouragement to move more Nigerian goods and services into global markets.

FNITCC, an idea launched by Fidelity Bank, has quickly grown into a marketplace that puts Nigerian businesses directly in front of international buyers, financiers, and policymakers. The journey started in London in November 2022, when more than 100 Nigerian exhibitors travelled to the UK to showcase products ranging from processed food and fashion to fintech and the arts. That two-day event drew over 1,000 visitors daily and ended with trade and investment deals worth about 250 million dollars, which shows that Nigerian businesses could hold their own if given the right platform.

When the second edition moved to Houston in October 2023, the scale doubled. More than 160 Nigerian and US-based businesses participated, making it the largest showcase of Nigerian non-oil exports in the United States in recent times. The outcomes were tangible. JohnVents Industries, a Nigerian cocoa processor, signed a 40-million-dollar pre-export finance facility with Afreximbank, with Fidelity Bank as the local administrative agent. That deal was money on the table, designed to expand Nigeria’s cocoa exports into the US market.

The impact of the Houston outing went beyond cocoa. For small and medium-sized businesses, it was their first chance to step onto a truly global stage. Exhibitors were exposed to diaspora markets in search of authentic Nigerian products, learned first-hand the quality standards required to break into the US supply chain, and built connections with potential off-takers. It was about both visibility and viability, giving businesses the tools and networks needed to scale.

Numbers tell the story better. Between London and Houston alone, FNITCC generated a combined deal pipeline exceeding 500 million dollars. More than 260 businesses across two continents have now used the platform to pitch to international buyers, and thousands of visitors have engaged with Nigeria’s export potential through its exhibitions, networking sessions, and investment panels. For Fidelity Bank, which already serves over 9.1 million customers across Nigeria and the UK, the platform has become an extension of its commitment to support exporters beyond borders.

This September, Atlanta, Georgia, will host the third edition of FNITCC from 18 to 20 September 2025 at the Omni Atlanta Hotel at Centennial Park. Over 100 Nigerian exporters are expected to take part, with organisers projecting an audience of more than 3,000 participants, from US investors and policy makers to diaspora networks and development finance institutions. The focus will remain on non-oil exports; agriculture, packaged goods, fashion, beauty, fintech and the creative economy; all sectors that can reduce Nigeria’s reliance on crude oil and strengthen its foreign exchange earnings.

The lesson from this Fidelity Bank’s idea is simple: exhibitions matter when they move beyond speeches and panels to real deals and financing. FNITCC has proven in just two editions that Nigeria’s entrepreneurs are ready, that global markets are interested, and that with the right support, the country’s non-oil exports can break barriers. The 250 million dollars in trade deals in London, the 40-million-dollar cocoa financing in Houston, plus other businesses that have taken part in FNITCC, can attest that it is the bridge between ambition at home and opportunity abroad.

Marwa, A Man Of Uncommon Grace At 72

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By Femi Babafemi

I have had the privilege of knowing Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd) for about 30 years. As a young reporter, I observed from a working distance the metamorphosis of a military administrator who was unlike any otheran enigma committed as much to his work as to becoming a paragon of excellence in public administration. In an era when military governments were often distant from the people, he ironically became a man of the people in Lagos State, the very cauldron of anti-military sentiment.

Quite luckily, twenty-five years later, I found myself working with him as my direct boss. Then, and even now, he remains the quintessential beacon of leadership and inspiration. Certain men are legends: larger than life by their achievements. Gen Marwa is undoubtedly one of them. Around him, there are never-ending stories of his goodness, drive, and accomplishments. Wherever you gofrom New York to Washington; from Borno to Lagos; from Kaduna to Abuja and from Lagos to Owerriif you meet someone who has worked with him or knows him in a leadership or personal capacity, the encounter is certain to reveal new perspectives of Marwa. Each fresh recollection adds another dimension to his multifaceted personality. Despite knowing him for years, I still hear new details by the day.

Working closely with him at Nigerias anti-narcotics agency over the past 56 months has afforded me the opportunity to reflect on his character, distil his qualities, and identify what stands him out. In that way, I also have my own stories to tell about him in a work context. I can say this without any iota of doubt or contradiction: wherever he works, the place feels the pulse of change, and he leaves a legacy that continues to echo for generations, long after his departure.

One such story comes from his tenure as Defence Adviser in New York. He had previously served briefly as Deputy Defence Adviser at the Nigerian Embassy in Washington before his recall home. His second tenure in America, as Defence Adviser at Nigerias Permanent Mission to the United Nations, resonates to this day. Through his foresight and effort, he was able to secure permanent accommodation for future occupants of that rolea privilege that had not existed before him. His predecessors had been left to solve accommodation challenges on their own, but he deemed it fit that there should be an official residence for the office and was committed to make it a reality. Today, that is a lasting legacy of the office.

There was a strong sense of déjà vu earlier in February this year, when he stood with dignitaries to commission the first-ever barracks for the 35-year-old National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). What he accomplished decades ago in New York was repeated at NDLEA, where he currently serves. That is the vintage MB Marwa. His life and legacy follow a familiar arc. At DICON, he transformed what did not exist into tangible structures and systems.

In Lagos, his achievements were legendary; in recounting them, he is often elevated to an Olympian. Lagosians remember his impact vividly and with nostalgia, reveling in his legacies. The famous ‘Keke Marwa,’ now ubiquitous across the country, remains a reminder of his extraordinary administrative acumen in Lagos. His other imprints, such as restoration of security through Operation Sweep; Operation 250 Roads; the construction of many housing estates; Lagos University College of Medicine; and Eko Tourist Beach Resort, to name but a few, stand in bold relief in the states history. Indeed, his transformative influence extends back to his time in the old Borno State (now present day Borno and Yobe states), which is still recalled with admiration by the generation that experienced him. The establishment of State Ministry of Water Resources in Nigeria began in Borno, and its creator was the State Military Governor, the then Colonel Mohamed Buba Marwa.
Now, at NDLEA, his four and half years of leadership have been equally transformative. His vision and guidance have woken a sleeping giant by introducing reforms that are both foundational and forward-looking. Today, NDLEAs service resonates not only nationally but regionally and globally.

For Marwa, there is no magic wandthat is my summation. Yes, leadership and vision are traits he embodies, but these alone cannot adequately capture the essence of the man.
In my final conclusion, I always say: he is a man of uncommon grace, imbued with the capacity to touch lives, shape institutions, and leave an indelible mark. In that way, his name has found its place in our national book of exploits for services of enduring impact.

As he celebrates his 72nd birthday today 9th September, I am delighted to join others in wishing him a long and fulfilling life. He is a celebrated hero: with two national honours, CON and OFR, scores of chieftaincy titles across Nigeria, and four Honoris Causa, his record is a testament to a life of recognition. Our celebration of him, and his new age, is an acknowledgment of how his unwavering dedication and keen sense of service have shaped countless lives, livelihoods, and institutions across our nation.

    1. Femi Babafemi is the Director, Media and Advocacy, NDLEA Abuja

Sowore’s Reckless Utterances: No One Is Bigger Than The Constitution

By Kelvin Adegbenga

In every democratic society, the constitution reigns supreme. No individual, no matter how loud, rebellious, or attention-seeking, should place himself above the law.

Unfortunately, Omoyele Sowore, the perennial presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), continues to test the patience of Nigerians by his unguarded utterances, disdain for institutions, and utter lack of respect for authority.

Recently, Sowore described the Department of State Services (DSS) as “lawless, idle, and incompetent.” He went further to call President Bola Ahmed Tinubu “idle, tired, and a criminal Commander-in-Chief.”

These are not mere criticisms but calculated insults designed to provoke instability and undermine Nigeria’s democracy.

Nigeria is a country governed by law, not by noise-makers or professional agitators. Sowore’s repeated denigration of state institutions and leaders is not activism; it is recklessness.

To describe Nigerians as being “held hostage by a tiny, wicked, inhumane band of rogues” is not only irresponsible but also an affront to the resilience and intelligence of the Nigerian people.

It is worth stating that no well-brought-up Yoruba man will stoop so low as to constantly insult those who are old enough to be his father. Yoruba culture, like other rich traditions across Nigeria, upholds respect for elders and authority. Sowore, by his words and conduct, has strayed far from this value system.

If indeed he has grievances against the government, the courts are open, the parliament is functional, and legitimate channels for redress exist. But for him to consistently hurl abuses at the President and key security agencies shows not just irresponsibility but a deliberate attempt to fan the flames of anarchy.

It is time for the DSS and other security agencies to move beyond cautionary tolerance. Sowore must face the consequences of his utterances. Free speech is a right, but freedom without responsibility is a threat to democracy. No citizen, no matter how loud or frustrated, should be allowed to ridicule the highest office in the land with impunity.

Sowore’s political ambition has failed time and again at the ballot box. He should not now attempt to destabilize Nigeria through reckless propaganda and social media insults.

Nigerians deserve constructive engagement, not baseless name-calling from a failed presidential candidate who seems more interested in chaos than progress.

The message is simple: no one is bigger than the constitution. Sowore must be made to understand that his rights end where the law begins.

 

Kelvin Adegbenga writes from Akure, Ondo State. e-mail: kelvinadegbenga@yahoo.com @kelvinadegbenga

AfriTECH 5.0: Experts To Discuss AI & Sovereign Tech In Building Africa’s Digital Independence

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Organizers are thrilled to announce the upcoming Africa Tech Alliance Forum, AfriTECH 5.0, a flagship continental gathering set to take place on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at the Oriental Hotel in Lagos.

Now in its fifth year, the Forum has firmly established itself as a premier annual convergence of thought leaders, innovators, policymakers, investors, startups, academia, and civil society to shape Africa’s digital trajectory.

Under the theme “AI & Sovereign Tech: Building Africa’s Digital Independence,” AfriTECH 5.0 invites participants to:

Explore transformative ideas: Delve into pivotal discussions on AI, sovereign tech, telecommunications, data centers, eCommerce, fintech, blockchain, and cybersecurity.

Engage with innovators: Experience hands-on tech demonstrations and discover solutions addressing Africa’s most urgent challenges.

Network with impact: Meet and collaborate with Africa’s brightest minds, from government and business to innovation hubs and tech ventures.

Shape policy and partnerships: Join panels and workshops tackling digital trust, infrastructure sovereignty, inclusivity, and regulatory frameworks.

“A highlight of AfriTECH 5.0 is the Africa Tech Alliance Excellence Awards (ATAEx) ceremony, where outstanding innovators and changemakers will be recognised for their groundbreaking contributions to Africa’s tech ecosystem”, said the Co-Convener of AfriTECH, Mr. Chike Onwuegbuchi.

Past recipients of ATAEx awards include; Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi (Director General, NITDA) received the Digital Transformation Leadership Award.

Dr. Ayotunde Coker was crowned ATAEx Man of the Year and also received the Lifetime Achievement Award in Data Centre Management.

Other recipients included Jude Ozinegbe (Blockchain Advocate of the Year), NeuRaL AI (AI Startup of the Year), Digital Encode Ltd (Cybersecurity Award), Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN), PalmPay, Happiness Obioha, and many more across diverse categories of innovation and impact.

AfriTECH 5.0 promises another unforgettable awards ceremony, putting innovators and changemakers at the forefront of the conversation.

Why You Can’t Miss It

Whether you’re a:

Tech visionary charting the future,
Investor seeking Africa’s next big breakthrough,
Policy influencer shaping digital governance,
Startup founder or entrepreneur aiming for scale,
AfriTECH 5.0 is your platform to learn, connect, innovate, and shine. For further inquiries, please, email: africatechallianceforum@gmail.com

About Africa Tech Alliance Forum (AfriTECH)
AfriTECH is a highly influential, pan-African tech and business forum that delivers strategic engagements, innovation showcases, policy dialogues, and honors outstanding contributions through the ATAEx Awards. Its mission: to empower Africa’s digital sovereignty and spark homegrown tech-led transformation.

24th CRMI International Conference: Shettima, Ugwuoke, Cardoso, Edun, Push For Home-Grown Risk Solutions

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Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima has called on the African Union (AU), African Development Bank (AfDB), and Afreximbank to support the efforts of the Chartered Risk Management Institute of Nigeria (CRMI) in tackling the growing wave of global risks confronting Africa.

Speaking at the 24th International Conference of CRMI in Lagos, the Vice President, represented by the Technical Adviser to the President on Economic and Financial Inclusion, Dr. Nurudeen Zauro, emphasized the need for strengthened continental collaboration in addressing risks ranging from climate change and cybersecurity to pandemics, terrorism, and disruptive technologies.

“For over two decades, the Institute has been a beacon of foresight, resilience, and preparedness,” Shettima said. “Risk management is not just a profession—it is a discipline of national importance. The establishment of the Federation of African Risk Management Association marks a historic milestone, positioning Africa to address risks on its own terms.”

The Vice President reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to risk mitigation, noting ongoing initiatives such as #SheIsIncluded, launched in January 2025, to support Nigerian women’s inclusion and resilience in economic participation. He also stressed the importance of community-based early warning systems for floods and droughts, microinsurance schemes, and social protection for farmers as tools for building resilience and national prosperity.

Speaking at the conference themed, “Global Risks, Local Solutions,” the President/Chairman of CRMI’s Governing Council, Kelvin Ugwuoke, underscored the importance of adopting homegrown strategies in addressing global disruptions such as climate change, cyber threats, pandemics, food insecurity, and the implications of artificial intelligence.

“We are witnessing risks driven by climate change, cyber threats, Artificial Intelligence, and geopolitical conflicts such as the Russia–Ukraine war, which have direct consequences on food security and economic stability,” Ugwoke said. “Our mandate is clear: to develop home-grown solutions that help Nigeria and Africa withstand and prosper amid global uncertainties.”

Ugwuoke who also serves as Executive Director, Risk Management at Fidelity Bank Plc, also disclosed that a bill is currently before the National Assembly to formally entrench risk management into national policy, underscoring CRMI’s advocacy for stronger integration of risk principles in both public and private sector decision-making.

Also speaking at the Conference, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, represented by Dr. Blaise Ijebor, Director of Risk Management at the CBN, commended CRMI’s leadership in advancing risk management in Nigeria.

“Global risks do not respect borders. Our reforms are designed to integrate risk awareness into financial planning, ensuring economic stability amid evolving uncertainties,” he stated.

Similarly, Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun, represented by Permanent Secretary Raymond Omachi, highlighted the necessity of recent policy reforms such as fuel subsidy removal and exchange rate unification. “Risk management is not about predicting the future, but preparing for it. The future will not be defined by the storms we face, but by the solutions we craft together,” he said.

The 24th International CRMI Conference convened policymakers, business leaders, and experts to deliberate on localized strategies for addressing global risks. It reinforced Nigeria’s leadership role in advancing risk management as a critical tool for economic stability, resilience, and sustainable development.

About CRMI
The Chartered Risk Management Institute of Nigeria (CRMI), established by Act No. 39 of 2022 and founded on March 29, 2000, is the national professional body for risk management in Nigeria. The Institute promotes best practices, education, research, and advocacy in risk management across industries. Through its flagship Chartered Risk Manager (CRM) certification, professional training, and Mandatory Continuing Professional Education (MCPE), CRMI sets the national standard for excellence in risk management and supports a community of professionals dedicated to advancing the discipline.

DSS Demands Meta Ban Sowore’s Facebook Account Over “False, Inciting” Post Against President

The Department of State Services (DSS) has formally petitioned Meta Platforms Inc., owners of Facebook, demanding the immediate deactivation of the account belonging to activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore.

In a letter dated September 7, 2025, and signed by Uwem Davies, on behalf of the Director General of the DSS, the Service accused Sowore of using his verified Facebook page to “disparage and ridicule” the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The DSS said its monitoring team detected a post made by Sowore on August 26, 2025, in which he described the President as “a criminal” and accused him of lying about corruption in Nigeria while on a state visit to Brazil.

According to the Service, the statement has continued to circulate online, generating “widespread condemnation, political tension, and security concerns” across the country, in addition to “damaging Nigeria’s image before the international community.”

The DSS maintained that Sowore’s remarks amount to a violation of several Nigerian laws, including:

* Section 51 of the Criminal Code Act (publication of false information),
* Sections 19, 22, and 24 of the Cybercrimes Act 2025 (spreading fake news, offensive online content, hate speech), and
* Section 2(3) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 (incitement capable of threatening national security).

The security agency described Sowore’s post as “misleading information, online harassment, and hate speech,” insisting that it was a willful attempt to “discredit the President, embarrass the nation, and incite disunity.”

The letter, addressed to Meta’s headquarters in Menlo Park, California, demanded the removal of Sowore’s Facebook account and all related posts within 24 hours, warning that failure to comply would compel the Federal Government to take “far-reaching measures.”

New Dimensions Of The Moral Turpitude Of Eld. Chidi Wihioka Unmasked As More Reactions Trail The Folly Of His Discourteous Harangue On Amaechi

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…Former Minister Trashes The Howl Of The Hubristic Ululant

Erstwhile National Publicity Secretary of the defunct New People’s Democratic Party (nPDP) and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, says concerned citizens angered by the careless misstatement of one valueless loon, Chidi Wihioka, that Rt. Hon. Chibuike Amaechi denied Rivers State the opportunity of hosting Dangote Refinery because of the former Governor’s personal demand to the businessman before approving a land for the mega project, have reacted in furry to the baseless claim, with some calling it the height of sycophancy while others say it smacks of the former Lawmaker’s characteristic idleness since leaving public office.

In a statement made available to the media, Chief Eze said the floodgate of reactions condemning the unfounded claims clearly points simpliciter, that the former elder who represented Ikwerre/Emohua Constituency in the House of Representatives is struggling to revive his perpetually drowned political image by taking up a campaign of calumny against his benefactor and former Transportation Minister, Chibuike Amaechi, to further the project of crashing his rapidly increasing influence, followership and generally accepted interest for the presidency in 2027.

A respected Rivers elder, Chief Bob Wali, whose deep concern triggered Amaechi’s reaction reached out through a message below:

“Chief Eze, I must commend you in the matured way you handled the accusation of elder Chidi Wihioka against Amaechi on denying Dangote building a Refinery in Rivers State but such malicious allegation was supposed to be aggressively confronted by Hon. Rotimi Amaech himself, this type of allegation could tarnish somebody’s image, he needs to clear the air.

In the same vein, I must confess that I was really shocked when I heard all that chidi was vomiting against his brother man just because of politics, must you destroy your brother’s reputation to get favor” Chief Bob Wali.

Eze said the text above from a respected son of Rivers State, counselling that Rt. Hon. Barr. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, makes a statement by himself on the subject, not minding the full details and denial contained in his press statement on this issue, made him reach out to the former Minister who gave his position, particularly necessitating this second release on the matter.

According to the APC Chieftain, the former Governor, Chibuike Amaechi said the Dangote Refinery in Lagos was already under construction when Dangote came to ask for land for a gas plant which he willingly obliged by showing him a befitting place opposite the Onne Seaport.

Sadly, Dangote never returned to build the gas plant after Amaechi gave him land and the former Governor never asked for anything from the businessman as wrongly peddled by this unreasonably irate elder called Wihioka.

The text from the former Governor reads:- “I never asked him for anything. Gave him land opposite the Onne seaport. He had already commenced construction of the refinery in Lagos but wanted land for a gas plant.”

Angered by his displaced outburst, some Nigerians close to the retarded Chidi Wihioka, threw more light on the depraved personae of this man-about-town, particularly how he used public funds so lavishly on mistresses and women of easy virtue.

While he held sway as Member of the House of Representatives, Chidi Wihioka was missing in action. He never uttered a word, never impacted on his constituents in any form. His bizarre performance could be linked to the fact that he dedicated his time and energy on mistresses.

Below are some of the reactions:

A very close ally to the FCT Minister, Chief Nyesom Wike, who wishes to remain anonymous had this to say:
“Good evening Chief, God bless you for letting the world know more about Eld. Chidi Wihioka but what you didn’t disclose in your must read exposure is that he is justifying the recent contract given to him by our Principal Wike in Abuja.”

A highly influential watcher of Rivers State politics, Dr. Green Parker in his reaction stated this:-
“Chief, you didn’t mention how Chidi Wihioka was busy buying cars and building houses for his mistresses with 6.8bn naira given to him for zero pot holes in Port Harcourt by Amaechi during his tenure as a Governor.”

Alh. Abdullah reacted thus:-
“Thanks so much Chief Eze, the Pen Oracle of our time. In my own Opinion the general Public is seriously waiting for your Reply to this stomach infrastructure, Useless and Hopeless individual called Chidi Wihioka
Meanwhile the two were important to attend to but Please take that first Option and deal with that Corrupt,Bandit and Criminal human being called Chidi before the Next option. Thanks”

Barr. Chizy Enyi, who loves to tread where the lions are afraid to pass reacted as expected this:-
“Chidi Wihioka and lies are 5 & 6. No wonder he has joined those who almost killed him and his supporters between 2013 and 2016 here in Rivers State”

Double Chief Amadi was a bit direct in his reaction. According to this fearless leader who knew Chidi Wihioka in and out:-
“Good. Let me share. U can imagine elder who’s only achievement was buying a car gift for a lady who was his Secretary And could not give account of Ikwerre Agricultural loan of 126m.”

Hon. Madu Israel, in his reaction highlighted:- “Elder Wihioka fall hand big time. Amaechi met him as a teacher with CAS now Polytechnics. Amaechi created road maintenance agency, made him the Head and released billions for a start. He later assisted him to secure HOR seat. Even if you don’t work with him, decency and good character demand you ingratiate such good. Amaechi attended his Child dedication in his small staff quarters. Such humility by a governor should be eternally rewarded.”

Mikali Folarin was full of sadness about how Amaechi is rewarded for his good deeds towards his people. He stated:-
“He be like say is a curse on Ikwerre people to always bring their own brother down just for them to see appointment or get job somewhere. Livingstone did the same when buhari appointed Amaechi as a Minister. They use Senate to frustrate the man with lies. After the same man came out and beg Amaechi for forgiveness for what he had done to him. Now because Amaechi wants to come out for President again, they begin to lie against the man again. Ikwere people shame on you people.”

Prof. Bassey, following the thought of Mr. Folarin reacted this way:- “Chief, I may keep repeating these lines but no regret in my outburst and disdain for irresponsible political class who Amaechi gave a window in politics and political appointments but turned around to condemn who made them beats me hollow.

Is it that they are so broke that they will compromise conscience for money? Honestly I resent these pack and question if good men don’t exist? nobody can wish away the esteem law of karma. It will visit them someday .watch out,it may be delayed but not denied.you can see why decent elites distance themselves from Nigerian politics bc its down to thuggery, godfatherism and money.”

MEDIA MOGUL, PROF SOLOMON BASSEY ON AMAECHI AND HIS DEVIOUS APPOINTEES THAT NEARLY CAUSED ME TO CRY. READ WHAT HE WROTE AND JOIN HIM TO WONDER IF WE STILL HAVE MEN OF INTEGRITY:

To Prof Solomon Bassey who is a bit confused of the type of devious characters that Amaechi surrounds himself with lamented,
“Chief, I may keep repeating these lines but no regret in my outburst and disdain for irresponsible political class who Amaechi gave a window in politics and political appointments but turn around to condemn who made them beats me hollow.

Is it that they are so broke that they will compromise conscience for money? Honestly I resent these pack and question if good men don’t exist? nobody can wish away d esteem law of karma.it will visit them someday. Watch out, it may be delayed but not denied.you can see why decent elites distance themselves from Nigerian politics bc its down to thuggery, godfatherism and money.”

Prof Kingsley Obasi took a different dimension in his reaction thus:-
“Chief Eze, you have done very well for Amaechi but please do ask these ingrates to explain this to me,
“They will link Amaechi to the one they claim that fled, but are they crediting him for the ones that went well such as:
1. Bringing NLNG hq from Lagos to PH
2. Bringing biggest branch of Songhai Farms to Rivers
3. Attempting to bring 2 armoured helicopters that would have ended oil attack
4. Attempting to build the biggest city East of the Niger as Greater PH City
5. Bringing World Book Capital to PH
6. Etc

And in their madness and shortsightedness, have they castigated those who:
1. Took away Rivers oil wells that has made the state now 3rd?
2. Those who stopped Train 7 for yewrs?
3. Those who scared away NLNG Dry Dock project
4. And many more. The erudite Prof concluded by stating, “Let people tell correct and complete accounts to shame the devil.” Dear Prof, this set of ingrates will answer your question one day no matter the odds!

In concluding this segment of the expose on the poorly-mannered and characterless Elder, Eze cited the mind of a pragmatic Civil Society Leader, Dr. Jackson Omenazu who reacted thus:-
“Chief Eze, Unfortunately those who wish that the sun will not rise due to heavy early morning cloudy rain will be surprised that nature has its own timing which no one can stop.
Good deeds are protective ornaments to the soul and body. It gives one clear road to travel on the plains of valley unscratched. Ameachi’s benevolent spirit will always shield him from those he once aided to rise. These attacks are a sharpener to his mind and they’re welcomed.”

Eze noted that though he is not against anyone leaving Amaechi, he will descend on anyone who was once fed or assisted by Amaechi but now elects to disparage him for no reason(s) rather to curry favor from his political adversaries.

MRA Welcomes Adoption Of Policy Framework On Information Integrity In West Africa And Sahel

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Media Rights Agenda (MRA) on Monday, September 8, 2025 welcomed the adoption of a Policy Framework on Information Integrity in West Africa and the Sahel, describing it as a timely and necessary step towards addressing the growing challenges of disinformation, misinformation, and other threats to the information ecosystem in the region.

The outcome document was adopted on September 5, 2025 at the end of a three-day multi-stakeholder Regional Conference on Information Integrity in West Africa and the Sahel, organized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the Government of Cape Verde. The conference took place on September 3 to 5, 2025 in Praia, capital of Cape Verde.

The 19-page Policy Framework, which seeks to foster trust in the information ecosystem, as well as advance digital platform governance and human rights was adopted in response to rising threats to information integrity as the region continues to witness a growing proliferation of disinformation and hate speech, as well as the misuse of digital and emerging technologies to harm citizens, other populations and societies.

In a statement by its Programme Officer, Ms Adesewa Akintokun, MRA commended the efforts of the UNESCO, governments, regional institutions, and civil society stakeholders who contributed to the development of the framework, saying “At a time when the spread of false and misleading information undermines democracy, fuels conflict, and erodes public trust in institutions, this initiative provides an important blueprint for fostering a healthier and more resilient information environment.”

She said MRA is particularly encouraged by the framework’s emphasis on upholding fundamental rights, including freedom of expression and access to information, while promoting accountability, transparency, and ethical standards across both state and non-state actors and stressed that “this balanced approach is critical to ensuring that efforts to combat harmful content do not become a pretext for censorship or suppression of legitimate expression.”

Ms Akintokun described the adoption of the Policy Framework, along with the “Praia Action Plan for Information Integrity in West Africa and the Sahel” and the “Guide for Regulators to Implement the Information Integrity Model Policy Information & Framework in West Africa and the Sahel” as positive milestones, noting that the true measure of the Framework’s success will depend on the effectiveness of its implementation.

She therefore urged all stakeholders to demonstrate the political will, commitment, and collaboration necessary to translate the important document into concrete actions that will advance information integrity and democratic resilience in West Africa and the Sahel.

Ms Akintokun said: “As an organization committed to advancing media freedom, access to information, and the digital rights of citizens, MRA looks forward to working with national governments, regional bodies, civil society organizations, the media, and other stakeholders in the effective implementation of the framework,” adding: “We will continue to advocate for policies and practices that safeguard journalists, strengthen media institutions, and empower citizens to engage meaningfully in democratic governance.”

Integrity Youth Alliance Counters NBA On Police Legal Cadre Promotions

The Integrity Youth Alliance has faulted the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) over its decision to institute legal action against the Nigeria Police Force regarding what it described as the “unjust and undue delay” in converting and promoting legal practitioners serving in the Force to the specialist cadre.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Kelvin Adegbenga, the group described the NBA’s move as misleading and an attempt to take credit for reforms already initiated by the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun.

According to the Alliance, IGP Egbetokun has already forwarded requests for the promotion of Inspectors and rank-and-file officers who are qualified legal practitioners and currently serving in the Legal Directorate to the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP).

The group also recalled that on 12th August 2025, the IGP upgraded the Legal Unit of the Nigeria Police Force into a full-fledged Directorate to professionalize legal practice within the Force, enhance efficiency in legal services, and strengthen collaboration within the justice sector.

Similarly, on August 20, 2025, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun upgraded the Police Medical Section to a full-fledged Directorate of Medical Services, a move aimed enhancing police welfare and operational efficiency. The upgrade further aimed to provide better healthcare for officers, retirees, and their families by institutionalizing medical services, ensuring specialized oversight, better coordination, and improved resource allocation, ultimately seen as a strategic investment in National security.

Some rank and file officers who are now qualified Doctors have been elevated as well to be in peers with their colleagues.

The IGP has promoted personnel in the Airwing and police animal branch of the force as well.

IGP Egbetokun has shown strong resolve in appreciating and rewarding excellence as well as professionalism.

“The NBA’s action ignores these verifiable milestones and paints an unfair picture of an IGP who has consistently demonstrated respect for judicial processes,” the statement read.

The Alliance maintained that the current police leadership has provided a better platform for growth, recognition, and professionalism for officers in the legal field, urging the NBA to embrace constructive partnership rather than what it described as “needless litigation.”

DSS Demands Retraction From Sowore Over Comment On President Tinubu

The Department of State Services (DSS) has issued a formal demand to activist and Sahara Reporters publisher, Omoyele Sowore, to retract what it described as a “criminal, false and malicious” comment made against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

In a letter signed by Uwem Davies on behalf of the Director General of the DSS, Sowore was accused of making derogatory remarks about the President in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on August 26, 2025, at 11:38 pm. The post reportedly read: “This criminal actually went to Brazil to state that there is NO MORE corruption under his regime in Nigeria. What audacity to lie shamelessly!”

The DSS stated that Sowore’s remarks were not only false and malicious but also capable of inciting public unrest, disunity, and even insurrection. “Those insidious statements have the effect of lowering the standing, estimation, and respect of Mr. President, before the citizens of Nigeria and the comity of Nations,” the letter said.

The Service directed Sowore to take three actions:

1. Make an immediate and unequivocal retraction of the statement on the same platform with equal prominence.
2. Publish a public apology in at least two national newspapers and two television stations with nationwide reach.
3. Submit a formal representation within one week to the DSS Headquarters in Abuja or via email.

The letter warned that failure to comply would compel the DSS to “explore all lawful means” to correct the narrative. It further emphasized that individuals aspiring to lead Nigeria must exercise restraint and responsibility in their public utterances.

Copies of the correspondence were also sent to the United States Embassy in Abuja.