Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, a pastor and church founder, adopts a meticulous and businesslike approach to governance, mirroring his successful management of thriving enterprises. Known for his prudence and frugality, Eno carefully tracks all income and expenditures, aiming to identify areas for savings and investment while preventing financial leakages for the benefit of all citizens.

From the outset of his administration, Eno expressed his intention to run the government with a private sector mindset, aiming to usher Akwa Ibom into a prosperous era. Observers are not surprised by his hands-on leadership style, which reflects his commitment to improving the state’s socio-economic landscape.

During the 2023 governorship campaign, Eno publicly challenged external statistical agencies regarding the state’s unemployment and poverty figures. He pledged to conduct a thorough assessment of accurate statistics for the state, not only for public awareness but also to help his administration identify and exploit “low hanging fruits” for development. True to his word, he swiftly took action after assuming office.

In August 2023, just three months into his tenure, Eno introduced an executive bill to establish the Akwa Ibom Bureau of Statistics. By December of that year, the bill had become law, underscoring the governor’s commitment to ensuring that timely and reliable statistics drive the state’s development initiatives. Eno emphasized the critical role of accurate data in enhancing service delivery, transparency, and good governance, which are essential for the success of his administration’s ARISE Agenda.

On October 21, 2024, Eno further demonstrated his commitment to improving employment opportunities for youths in the state by launching the ARISE YOUTH EMPLOYMENT PORTAL. This innovative online platform aims to create a comprehensive database of unemployed youths and connect them with job creators both within Akwa Ibom and beyond.

Dr. Frank Ekpenyong, the governor’s Senior Special Assistant on ICT, elaborated on the portal’s advantages, showcasing its functionalities to an audience of enthusiastic youths and government officials. This initiative not only aims to benefit the government and the unemployed but also supports private sector operators in Akwa Ibom State, ultimately fostering economic growth and job creation.

Governor Umo Eno’s businesslike approach, combined with his commitment to accurate data and youth empowerment, positions Akwa Ibom State on a path towards sustainable development and prosperity.

The direct descendants of Sir Ededuna Walter Obaseki have extended their heartfelt congratulations to the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II CFR, on his 8th coronation anniversary and birthday, celebrated recently with a thanksgiving service at the Holy Arousa Church.

In a statement issued by Mercy Ededuna Obaseki on behalf of the family, they acknowledged the numerous innovations and people-oriented programs the Benin monarch has introduced since his ascension in 2016, noting his significant contributions to fostering peace and prosperity in the kingdom.

The statement reads: “Long may you reign, our Great King. May God give you more wisdom and strength to continue to pilot the affairs of the Great Benin Kingdom.”

The family further highlighted the Oba’s exemplary leadership qualities demonstrated during his tenure as a foreign diplomat and ambassador of Nigeria to Angola, Italy, and Sweden, with accreditations to Norway, Denmark, and the Republic of Finland.

Additionally, the statement included a request for the Oba’s support in facilitating the family’s claims to the entitlements of their patriarch, who served in the British Merchant Navy and earned several medals and awards.

“We also want you, our Royal Father, to use your voice to help us make our demands from the British Government so that they will speedily grant our wish for our father’s entitlements to be paid to us,” the statement concluded.

Businesses and daily activities across Nigeria have come to a standstill due to prolonged power outages, leading to significant economic losses and hardships for citizens. Data from the Nigerian Electricity System Operator revealed that as of 6 AM yesterday, the nation’s electricity generation stood at a mere 3,752.37 megawatts (MW), which is grossly inadequate for the needs of households and businesses.

Many Nigerians are also struggling to afford alternative energy sources, with petrol and diesel prices exceeding N1,000 per litre. As a result, large portions of the country remain in darkness, having experienced the eighth national grid collapse this year alone.

Dr. Chinyere Almona, the Director-General of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), expressed deep concern over the frequency of grid collapses. She noted, “This year alone, we have recorded eight grid failures, with three occurring within a single week. The worsening performance of the national grid is a significant issue for the business community.”

Similarly, Dele Oye, President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), highlighted the detrimental impact of these outages on the economy. He stated, “The recent spate of national grid collapses has raised significant concerns for our economy and the operational viability of businesses across the country. With the grid failing multiple times in recent months, businesses have been grappling with erratic power supply, disrupting production lines, inflating operational costs, and ultimately affecting profitability.”

The ongoing power crisis has been exacerbated by vandalism in various regions, particularly in Northern Nigeria, which has been without power supply for over a week. The disruption was specifically attributed to the vandalism of the Shiroro-Kaduna transmission line, necessitating security measures for maintenance work to restore service.

As the nation grapples with this persistent power crisis, the implications for economic activity and citizen welfare continue to deepen, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable solutions to the ongoing energy challenges.

The Enugu State government has condemned the illegal sit-at-home order declared by faceless non-state actors in response to the unfortunate death of popular Ogene musician Okezie Mba, also known as Igbo Jah. In a statement, the government described those behind the order as criminals and opportunists who do not have the well-being of Ndi Enugu or Ndi Igbo at heart.

The government reassured citizens that it, along with security agencies, has taken decisive measures to ensure that anyone responsible for the musician’s death is held accountable. It labeled the promoters of the sit-at-home order as enemies of both Enugu State and the Igbo nation.

Citizens were urged to disregard the illegal directive and continue their daily activities, with assurances that the government will utilize all resources available to protect the lives and property of its people. The alleged perpetrators of the musician’s death are reportedly already in custody for interrogation and prosecution.

Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), stated, “Our attention has been drawn to reports on social media regarding the sit-at-home declaration for Tuesday, October 29, 2024, ostensibly to protest the killing of Okezie Mba by a police officer on Friday.”

The government condemned the killing, calling it “abominable” and “unacceptable,” reaffirming its commitment to investigating the incident thoroughly and ensuring justice is served. Governor Peter Mbah has prioritized the investigation, with the identified suspect already in custody.

On Sunday morning, a government delegation led by the SSG and Chief of Staff to the Governor, Barr Victor Udeh, visited the bereaved family to express condolences and reiterate the government’s commitment to justice.

The Enugu State government expressed no surprise that criminal elements seek to exploit this unfortunate situation to incite chaos and disrupt economic activities in the state. It emphasized that such opportunists do not reflect the values of a community known for its enterprise, hard work, and creativity.

The statement concluded, “These individuals cannot be our true representatives. They do not embody the values we cherish. They are simply criminals and enemies of Ndi Igbo, aiming to destabilize the region.”

Maternal health remains one of the most pressing global health challenges, characterized by stark disparities between high-income and low- to middle-income countries. Despite advancements, maternal mortality rates are unacceptably high, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. Each day, over 800 women die from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth, with 94% of these deaths occurring in low-resource settings. The majority of maternal deaths could be averted with access to quality healthcare, underscoring the urgent need for global reforms to ensure equitable access to maternal healthcare.

The Global Maternal Health Crisis

Since the early 2000s, maternal mortality rates have decreased by almost 38% globally, primarily due to international initiatives and the expansion of healthcare services. However, this progress has been uneven, with significant disparities persisting between high-income countries and their low- and middle-income counterparts. Maternal mortality ratios (MMRs) in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia remain alarmingly high—462 deaths per 100,000 live births in sub-Saharan Africa compared to just 11 per 100,000 in high-income countries. This disparity highlights the failure to provide consistent and equitable maternal care worldwide.

The primary causes of maternal deaths are often preventable and include severe bleeding (mostly after childbirth), infections, high blood pressure during pregnancy (pre-eclampsia and eclampsia), complications from delivery, and unsafe abortion practices. For every woman who dies from pregnancy-related complications, many more suffer long-term severe consequences such as fistulas, infertility, and psychological trauma. These outcomes are particularly prevalent in regions where women lack access to quality prenatal care, skilled birth attendants, and emergency obstetric services.

The root causes of maternal health disparities are complex and multifaceted. Socioeconomic inequities, including poverty and limited access to education, profoundly impact maternal health outcomes, while systemic issues in healthcare delivery—such as the lack of trained healthcare professionals, inadequate infrastructure, and supply chain problems—exacerbate these challenges. Furthermore, in many cultures, gender inequalities limit women’s access to healthcare services, often depriving them of the agency to seek the care they need.

Global Lessons in Maternal Health Reform

To address these challenges, global health leaders must learn from successful interventions that have significantly improved maternal health outcomes in resource-constrained settings. Jaiyeola Abiose Ayanbadejo’s work with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Nigeria exemplifies effective maternal health reform models in low-resource environments. Her focus on capacity building, community engagement, and data-driven evaluations offers critical insights into sustainably improving maternal health services, even in the most underserved regions.

In Nigeria, where maternal mortality remains among the highest in the world, Jaiyeola spearheaded efforts to strengthen maternal and reproductive healthcare by building local capacity for monitoring and evaluating health programs. Her approach integrated maternal care into community-based health services, ensuring that even women in remote areas had access to essential maternal care services. By working directly with local communities, healthcare workers, and policymakers, her initiatives led to better-designed programs that addressed the specific needs of the population.

One key lesson from Jaiyeola’s work is the importance of data in driving sustainable improvements in healthcare. By collecting and analyzing health data, she identified critical gaps in healthcare delivery, optimized resource allocation, and tailored interventions to the specific needs of different communities. This evidence-based approach is essential to ensure that healthcare programs are both effective and efficient, particularly in resource-constrained settings where every dollar must be carefully spent.

Moreover, Jaiyeola’s emphasis on capacity building ensures sustainable healthcare improvements. By training local healthcare workers and establishing the infrastructure needed to deliver quality care, her programs not only improved maternal health outcomes in the short term but also equipped communities to maintain these improvements over the long term. This model of healthcare reform—focusing on community-based care, data-driven interventions, and sustainable capacity building—can be applied across countries facing similar challenges in maternal healthcare.

Community Engagement and Culturally Competent Care

The provision of culturally competent care is critical to improving maternal health outcomes, particularly in ethnically diverse and low-resource settings. Cultural norms and practices surrounding childbirth can vary widely, and healthcare programs that fail to consider these differences often struggle to gain the trust of the communities they aim to serve. Jaiyeola Abiose Ayanbadejo’s work illustrates the importance of directly engaging communities and understanding their specific cultural needs.

In Nigeria, Jaiyeola worked closely with community leaders and local healthcare providers to ensure that maternal health services were culturally sensitive and adapted to the local context. For instance, in some communities, women were reluctant to seek care from male healthcare providers due to cultural or religious norms. By training female healthcare workers and involving local leaders in health program design, Jaiyeola helped overcome these barriers, ensuring that women felt comfortable accessing maternal health services.

Addressing the global maternal health crisis requires concerted efforts to improve healthcare systems, engage communities, and ensure culturally competent care. By learning from successful models and focusing on sustainable reforms, the global health community can make significant strides in reducing maternal mortality and improving health outcomes for women worldwide. The work of advocates like Jaiyeola Abiose Ayanbadejo demonstrates that with the right strategies and commitment, equitable maternal healthcare can be a reality for all women, regardless of their circumstances.

General Yakubu Dan-Yumma Gowon (PhD, GCFR), one of Nigeria’s revered leaders, marked his 90th birthday on Saturday, October 19, 2024, with heartfelt tributes from a wide array of distinguished Nigerians, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo and current President Bola Tinubu. Gowon, synonymous with the “One Nigeria” slogan, is celebrated for his pivotal role in leading the nation through a tumultuous period during the Nigerian Civil War.

Ascending to leadership at the young age of 33, Gowon guided Nigeria through a 30-month brutal civil war, ultimately preserving the nation’s unity with his memorable “No Victor, No Vanquished” declaration. This approach facilitated the reintegration of the former Biafrans without further bloodshed, a significant achievement given the violence surrounding the earlier coups that brought him to power in 1966.

During his tenure, Gowon presided over Nigeria’s oil boom, strategically utilizing the influx of revenue to develop essential national infrastructure and enhance worker welfare through the notable Udoji Award. Notably, he remains the only military ruler in Nigeria who did not amass personal wealth during his nine years in power.

Gowon was known for his adherence to due process and planned development—principles that have since been overshadowed by a culture of immediacy adopted by his successors. However, his legacy is not without criticism. He faced backlash for allowing military commanders to commit war crimes during the civil conflict, failing to fully implement his Reconciliation, Reconstruction, and Rehabilitation programs, and inadvertently contributing to the incomplete reintegration of the Igbo people, which has fueled calls for Biafran independence in the South-East.

Gowon’s promise to return Nigeria to civilian rule by 1975 remained unfulfilled, leading to his eventual ouster—a development welcomed by many. After a prolonged exile, he received a presidential pardon and returned to Nigeria, where he launched the “Nigeria Prays” initiative, promoting reconciliation and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.

At the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank in Washington, D.C., IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva emphasized the strain high prices are placing on families globally. Speaking at the Global Policy Agenda 2024 briefing, she described the global economy as “stuck in a slow growth and high debt trajectory,” which has left many people feeling uncertain about their economic futures despite positive macroeconomic indicators like reduced inflation.

Georgieva noted that, while central banks’ policies have helped curb inflation, and global supply chains have improved, families worldwide continue to struggle with high costs. The IMF projects global growth at 3.2% for 2024, slowing further to 3.1% annually over the next five years.

The Global Policy Agenda 2024 report highlighted additional risks to economic stability, including record-high public debt levels projected to reach nearly 100% of global GDP by 2030, alongside growing economic fragmentation that could disrupt international economic cooperation. However, emerging opportunities like the green transition, demographic shifts, and digitalization, including artificial intelligence, offer potential growth avenues, provided policies address the underlying challenges.

To foster sustainable growth, the IMF recommends targeted monetary and fiscal policies focused on lowering inflation, rebuilding economic buffers, and ensuring debt sustainability.

The ongoing legal tussle between the Nigerian states and the federal government over the establishment and functioning of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) highlights longstanding tensions around Nigeria’s federal structure, constitutional limits, and power dynamics. Initially spurred by Kogi State’s litigation questioning the EFCC’s establishment, several other states have joined the suit, bringing broader attention to federal overreach and the potential misuse of anti-corruption agencies as political tools.

The case hinges on whether the federal government followed constitutional procedures when establishing the EFCC in 2004. The states argue that the EFCC’s structure and operations stray from the federalist principles intended by Nigeria’s founding framework, where states maintain significant autonomy. Concerns are compounded by the EFCC’s leadership structure, which places significant power in the hands of the President to appoint the agency’s head, leaving room for perceived partiality in corruption investigations.

The anti-corruption agency has, at times, appeared selective, with politically exposed individuals and those affiliated with the federal administration often avoiding rigorous scrutiny. This discrepancy undermines the agency’s credibility and perpetuates a narrative of selective justice, with federal law enforcement heavily policing state officials but rarely questioning central government figures. The Attorney General of the Federation’s warning that the Supreme Court’s support for the states could be perceived as condoning corruption adds a contentious angle. This kind of rhetoric risks compromising the judiciary’s independence, which is pivotal for upholding the rule of law.

This case underscores the necessity of balancing power across Nigeria’s tiers of government to avoid unchecked authority at the federal level. It calls for a more transparent and equitable anti-corruption framework that serves the public rather than political interests. Should the Supreme Court side with the states, it would not only challenge the current configuration of the EFCC but also reinforce the broader principle that Nigeria’s states are not mere subordinates to the federal government. The verdict could potentially pave the way for reform, fostering a more robust federalism that aligns with the intent of Nigeria’s constitution and benefits the nation as a whole.

As the economy continues to strain household budgets, many Nigerians are struggling to afford basic food items, let alone protein sources. The prices of dairy products, fish, meat, and eggs have skyrocketed, making protein-rich foods increasingly unattainable for many.

A kilo of fish now costs between N3,500 and N8,000, while a kilo of chicken ranges from N9,000 to N12,000. Even items like cowhide (kpomo) have seen a sharp increase, with a single piece costing as much as N700, up from just N20 to N50. A crate of eggs, which cost N2,000 last year, now sells between N5,200 and N6,000.

In response, some Nigerians have resorted to buying fish heads as a budget-friendly protein source. Market vendors reveal that fish heads, once discarded or sold cheaply, are now packaged in small portions, ranging from N500 to N1,000. “This is the head of fish that people used to ask to be removed,” shared Mrs. Shade Ayinde, a cold room worker in Lagos, who noted a growing demand from customers looking to add fish heads to their meals.

Fish vendor Mrs. Grace Arogundade recalled her shock when she realized that the fish heads she once assumed were being purchased for pets were actually being eaten by customers struggling to put food on the table. “I wept because this was my very first time experiencing this, and I knew right then that this country was finished,” she said, highlighting the economic hardships facing many Nigerians today.

The Nigeria Union of Pensioners Contributory Pension Scheme Sector (NUPCPS) has appealed to the Federal Government for the release of funds to cover accrued rights for retirees. The National Chairman of NUPCPS, Mr. Sylva Nwaiwu, speaking in Abuja, emphasized the hardship faced by workers who retired under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), stating that many have been waiting nearly 20 months for their benefits, with the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF) yet to release necessary funds.

Nwaiwu highlighted that funds for accrued rights and a pension increment of N32,000 were approved in the 2023 and 2024 national budgets, but disbursements remain stalled. As a result, he warned that senior citizens may resort to occupying the OAGF premises if delays persist. Nwaiwu also called for transparency, urging the OAGF to clarify how funds allocated annually since 2019 for CPS retirees have been utilized.

The NUPCPS Chairman concluded by stressing the importance of timely benefit payments, which are the cornerstone of the Contributory Pension Scheme’s mission.

Nigeria, often referred to as the “Giant of Africa,” is grappling with complex challenges despite its immense resources and large population. With approximately 250 million people, the country’s growth is hampered by rising hunger, persistent insecurity, and economic hardship. Current inflation and elevated costs for essentials, such as fuel, have led to significant distress for everyday Nigerians, with many struggling to meet basic needs. Prohibitive living costs have forced some into makeshift homes and precarious work, highlighting the urgent need for economic reform.

Public frustration with leadership is mounting, spurred by recent statements from government figures perceived as disconnected from citizens’ hardships. Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s advice to reduce car usage and find “free food” opportunities has been met with backlash, symbolizing the perceived insensitivity of leaders. Similarly, former Minister Chibuike Amaechi’s call for public protests over high living costs underscores the disconnect between governance and the people.

This situation underscores the urgent need for reforms prioritizing citizen welfare, addressing food insecurity, and mitigating inflation’s impact on everyday life. Effective governance and a responsive approach are critical in ensuring that Nigeria’s vast resources translate into improved living standards for its people.

The Lagos Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has endorsed Mrs. Abimbola Oyetunde, the General Manager of Bronze FM/Radio Nigeria Benin, as the first female Deputy National President (DNP) of the NUJ. This endorsement also includes support for Comrade Alhasan Yahaya and the rest of the “A+A” campaign team, ahead of the National Delegates Conference scheduled to take place in Imo State.

The campaign team, which includes Comrade Victor Ndukwe (Treasurer), Comrade Samuel Dada (Financial Secretary), Ronke Samo (VP B Zone), and Tukur Mohammed, officially launched its campaign in Lagos. According to Comrade Demola Babalola (JP), Director General of the A+A Campaign Council, Lagos was chosen as the launch site out of respect for the Council’s prominence in Nigerian journalism.

Mrs. Oyetunde, with over 28 years in journalism, has been a driving force in the industry. She began her career as a reporter and marketing executive at DAAR Communications (Raypower) from 1994 to 1997. She then joined the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) in 1998, where she served in various capacities, from News Commentary Writer to Head of the Business Desk, and ultimately as General Manager.

Her career is celebrated as a testament to resilience, transformation, and dedication, making her a role model in Nigerian journalism.

Bayo Onanuga, spokesperson for President Bola Tinubu, has responded to criticism on social media regarding claims that the President is indifferent to the struggles of Nigerians. Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Onanuga asserted that Tinubu is fully aware of the difficulties facing the populace and is committed to improving their circumstances.

He specifically addressed the recent social media nickname “T-pain” that some users have attributed to Tinubu, labeling it as “mischievous.” Onanuga emphasized that the President’s intentions are not to exacerbate the hardships faced by Nigerians but to focus on “repairing the economy.”

“The President is aware that the citizens are going through some difficulties,” he stated, but added that Tinubu does not follow social media trends closely, hence he is not aware of the nickname being used against him.

Onanuga remarked, “Some people have also responded and called the President a different name. So, as far as I am concerned, it is a non-issue. Some people out of mischief just say somebody is a T-pain. He (Tinubu) is not T-pain.”

He reiterated Tinubu’s commitment to addressing the nation’s challenges, saying, “The President has never shied away from telling Nigerians that he feels their pain and he is working very hard to make sure that he gives them some relief so that things will get better and this country will get more prosperity.”

Despite the challenges posed by high inflation, Onanuga pointed out that Nigeria is experiencing economic growth, stating, “Despite inflation, revenues have increased.”

In a significant development for Nigerian representation in African legislative affairs, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has been elected to the Advisory Committee of the Conference of Speakers and Presidents of African Legislatures (CoSPAL). Additionally, Dapo Oyewole, the Senior Special Assistant on International Cooperation to President Tinubu, has been appointed as the Secretary-General of CoSPAL.

The elections occurred during the 2nd General Assembly meeting of CoSPAL held in Accra, Ghana, where Ghana’s Speaker, Rt. Hon. Alban Kingsford Bagbin, was re-elected as Chairman. The assembly brought together over 100 participants, including legislative leaders from various African nations, underscoring CoSPAL’s mission to enhance legislative collaboration across the continent.

Representing Nigeria’s Speaker, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu advocated for Nigeria to secure two of the five positions allocated to West Africa within CoSPAL. Kalu also proposed constitutional amendments aimed at improving the efficiency of the Secretariat, including suggestions for a periodic performance review, an appeals process, and clearer rules regarding membership termination.

These recommendations were accepted by the General Assembly, showcasing CoSPAL’s dedication to promoting transparent governance and accountability. The newly elected officials are set to be inaugurated on Sunday, marking a new chapter for Nigeria’s involvement in African legislative matters.

The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) has advised residents in the South-East to upgrade their pre-paid meters by November 24, 2024. This upgrade is necessary due to the Token Identifier (TID) rollover, which impacts all Standard Transfer Specification (STS) compliant pre-paid meters globally.

Mr. Emeka Ezeh, EEDC’s Head of Corporate Communications, announced the deadline during a press briefing in Enugu. He explained that EEDC has successfully transitioned to a new vending system called “SuperEdge” to facilitate a smooth upgrade process.

Key Points:

• After November 24, un-upgraded pre-paid meters will no longer accept new credit tokens, though they will continue to function until the current energy credits are exhausted.
• Customers who haven’t recharged their pre-paid meters since February 2024 will need to use Key Change Tokens (KCTs) for the upgrade. These tokens consist of three sets of 20-digit numbers that must be entered into the meter.
• The upgrade process is free of charge. However, customers are urged to load any previously purchased tokens before proceeding with the upgrade, as those tokens will no longer be accepted afterward.

Ezeh encouraged customers to recharge their meters through the EEDC website or the EEDC Connect App, and for any inquiries regarding the upgrade, they can reach out to the EEDC Call Center.

Residents are advised to act promptly to avoid disruptions in their electricity supply.

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council is mourning the death of former Internal Auditor Mr. Walter Ukaegbu, who passed away at the age of 67 after a prolonged illness. Ukaegbu, known for his extensive coverage of business and maritime/transport/aviation beats across various national newspapers, died on August 29, 2024, in his hometown of Amokwe Item in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State.

In a heartfelt tribute signed by Ochiaka Ugwu, Secretary of the FCT Council of NUJ, Ukaegbu is remembered as a loving father, dedicated comrade, and inspiring professional, who served as a role model for his community. The tribute conveyed condolences to his family and highlighted his commitment to faith, community service, and his role as a Christian leader.

A funeral program released by his family indicates that a Service of Songs will be held in Ukaegbu’s honor on November 8, 2024, at Christ Methodist Cathedral in Nyanya, Abuja. His remains will be interred in his hometown of Amokwe Item, Abia State, on November 15, 2024. He is survived by his wife, Dr. (Mrs.) Ifeyinwa Ukaegbu, son Jesse Chidubem Ukaegbu, daughter Favour Amarachukwu Ukaegbu, and extended family members.

In response to the persistent power outages affecting Northern, Eastern, and South-South Nigeria, Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, voiced significant frustration over the ongoing crisis. He underscored that the prolonged blackouts, particularly in Northern states, have severely impacted numerous businesses that rely heavily on a consistent public power supply.

Obi stated, “This power crisis, combined with the current high cost of petroleum products and the challenging economic environment, is a devastating mix leading to widespread business failures and increased poverty across Nigeria.” He highlighted how the lack of reliable electricity has critically affected small businesses, which are the backbone of the Nigerian economy and a primary source of income for millions of citizens.

He emphasized that Nigeria’s power challenges are “not rocket science” and pointed to successful examples like Egypt, which has made substantial advancements in its power infrastructure. He praised Egypt’s aggressive investments in power stations, which have significantly improved energy reliability for small businesses that contribute over 80 percent to the country’s GDP.

Obi urged the Nigerian government to adopt both immediate and long-term strategies to tackle the power crisis and alleviate the burdens faced by citizens during these “tough times.” He concluded with a hopeful message, asserting that “a New Nigeria is Possible” if the country can implement effective power reforms to foster economic growth and stability.

The Nigerian Army has announced the arrest of 35 suspected oil thieves involved in illegal refining and pipeline siphoning activities across four Niger Delta states: Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta, and Rivers. The operations, conducted between October 21 and October 27, are part of ongoing efforts to combat oil theft and illegal bunkering in the region.

Lt.-Col. Danjuma Danjuma, spokesman for the Nigerian Army’s 6 Division in Port Harcourt, detailed the operations in a statement. Troops successfully destroyed 58 illegal artisanal refineries and seized approximately 11,200 litres of stolen crude oil along with 355,000 litres of adulterated diesel during the raids.

In Rivers State, the troops dismantled 22 illegal refineries and confiscated significant amounts of illegally refined products, including 131,500 litres of diesel and 10,300 litres of condensates, alongside two wooden boats. Six suspects were apprehended across various local government areas, including Akuku-Toru, Ahoada East, Degema, and Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni, as well as the Obiofo Oil Field, Odagwa, and Imo River.

In Akwa Ibom, the army reported the dismantling of 34 illegal refining sites and the arrest of 27 suspects, leading to the seizure of 215,000 litres of adulterated diesel, 19 wooden boats, nine vehicles, and 20 nylon bags used for storing petroleum products.

Operations in Delta State resulted in the arrest of two suspected oil thieves and the confiscation of 1,200 litres of crude oil, as well as various boats and vehicles in the Warri South and Ethiope West local government areas.

In Bayelsa, troops destroyed two illegal refining sites and seized 8,500 litres of diesel and 10,000 litres of stolen crude oil, along with seven wooden boats and three additional vandals arrested during raids in Ekeremor, Nembe, Southern Ijaw, and Yenagoa local government areas.

The army’s efforts are aimed at reducing oil theft, which significantly impacts Nigeria’s economy and the security situation in the Niger Delta region.