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Gov. Aiyetadiwa: Driving Ondo’s industrialization vision with passion

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By Ayo Oyoze Baje

 

Quote:

 

“From Akure to Owo, Ilaje to Ifedore, we are beginning to witness development projects taking shape. Road construction, health facilities’ rehabilitation, and improvements in our schools are no longer mere promises but realities,”

 

-Abiodum Faleye ( former lawmaker, Ondo North Senatorial District )

 

 

Considered from a broad perspective, leadership success and a political one at that encompasses the unfailing principles of a deep understanding of the people’s most pressing needs, prioritizing such and addressing them through well articulated policies, programs and projects. One is talking about processes that are not only people – oriented but are sustainable. It takes not only a vibrant vision but the capacity to assemble like minds who share in such vision, along with pragmatic partnerships to pilot it across the stormy waters of the freaky economic waves to the harbour of the people’s collective hope. Yet, one significant factor which facilitates the dreams to reality is that of such a leader being fully prepared for the onerous tasks ahead, a hitherto elusive factor that has hindered development across some states in the country.

 

 

Interestingly, one of such a remarkable leader whose historic emergence in Nigeria’s political landscape has kept him in the public view since he assumed office in 2023 after the demise of former governor Rotimi Akeredolu is none other than Governor Lucky Aiyetadiwa of the Sunshine State, Ondo. But has he brought a sunshine smile to the faces of millions of the good people of the state? That is the million naira question. The answer is an emphatic “yes” in more ways than one. From impactful infrastructural development, quality education and healthcare delivery, fruitful agriculture, tourism to the innovative Ondo Global he has approached the industrialization of the state from a holistic perspective.

 

 

In terms of being prepared for the job, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa comes in as a thoroughbred Nigerianu businessman and politician Unlike most of his predecessors in office who were either teachers, or a lawyer. So, his approach to governance is driven by his wealth of experience garnered from the business sector. Also, he previously served as deputy governor of Ondo State from 2021 to 2023 under Governor Rotimi Akeredolu.

 

 

Well aware that whatever physical achievements are made in the absence of security would amount to nothing, Aiyetadiwa has sustained and built upon the Amotekun security initiative of his predecessor, Akeredolu. It is not surprising therefore, that the challenge of insecurity in the state has reduced over the past two years.

 

 

With regards to educational development, one of the most commendable achievements is the employment of over 2,000 teachers in both primary and secondary schools.The construction and renovation of schools are also a testament to the governor’s effort in making learning convenient and attractive for learners.This would reduce unemployment by providing jobs for many youths. By this he has demonstrated Bill Bradley ‘s statement that: ” Leadership is by empowering others to become better.

 

 

Equally praiseworthy is the payment of 82.6 percent of the state’s debt, which has gone a long way in stabilizing our financial system and restoring confidence in the state’s economy.

 

 

On infrastructural development for which he keeps receiving accolades,

his administration’s resolve to revive and complete several abandoned projects left behind by previous governments is praiseworthy. So is the construction of the 7km road at Gbangbalogun axis at Akure stands out. There is also the reconstruction and rehabilitation of over 60 kilometers of roads across various parts of the state. Apart from their even distribution this effort is making transportation easier for the citizens while improving access to economic and social opportunities. This is commendable, is it not? Of course, it is. But there are more reasons to understand why the people of Ondo State are full of praises for one of their own from the backwaters of Ilaje, currently becoming a game-changer in the state’s political history

 

 

In a similar vein, in the health sector, the governor’s intervention in upgrading 102 health centres has largely improved access to primary healthcare delivery. Governor Aiyedatiwa’s vision for food security, availability, and rural development are exemplary. As the major cocoa producer in Nigeria, there is growing focus on chocolate processing, with several initiatives aimed at boosting local value addition. The drawback however, is that a large portion of the beans are traditionally exported as raw material, resulting in a missed opportunity for revenue generation. To address this, the state government and private investors have been developing cocoa processing facilities, including the Johnvents Cocoa Processing Factory, to increase the amount of cocoa processed locally.

 

 

The state is actively pursuing the development of a deep-sea port at Araromi Seaside, also known as the Ondo Sea Port. This project is considered a key part of the state’s economic development strategy, with plans including a 75-kilometer stretch of unbroken Atlantic coastline and an adjacent Free Trade Zone. The deep-sea port is envisioned to be located two kilometers offshore. The governor has also emphasized the need for synergy among security agencies to protect border communities, which is likely related to the port development and its potential impact on the region.

 

“We have the longest coastline in Nigeria with the deepest draft. The process began under the last administration, and I’m committed to completing it. The deep seaport will be the first in Nigeria capable of handling modern vessels,” he added.

 

 

To bolster the vision of industrialization, Ondo and Bauchi states have partnered to attract $2.6bn investment to Ondo state.The high-level meeting, held recently in Akure, focused on plans to establish a fertilizer production and harmonial plant, alongside a petrochemical facility, all projected for completion within the next 12 months. The investment, is spearheaded by Residents Group Cement, with Dr. Abbas Waziri, Executive Director who accompanied Governor Mohammed on the visit. It is expected to significantly boost the state’s economy to create thousands of jobs, and enhance agricultural and industrial development.

 

 

In all of these outstanding achievements what make them impactful are predicated on the factors of being pro-people, employment generating, bearing improvement on the Human Development Index, HDI and sustainable. And as the seasoned journalist, who is the newly appointed Commissioner of Information, Idowu Ajanaku rightly highlighted they are inclusive and open to critical analysis,to bring out the best in them. That reminds us of the saying that: “Leadership is practised not so much in words as in attitude and actions” as aptly stated by Harold Geneen.

Drama as Uromi Chief Imam counters police rescue claims, says ransom was paid

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The Chief Imam of Uromi Central Mosque, Imam Muhammad Murtadha Obhakhobo, has refuted claims by the police that he was rescued from his abductors, revealing instead that his release came only after a ₦6.5 million ransom was paid.

The cleric, who was kidnapped on July 9 in Uromi, Edo State, clarified the circumstances of his release in response to an earlier statement issued by the Edo State Police Command.

According to the police, Imam Obhakhobo was freed as a result of “sustained pressure” mounted by their operatives. The statement, signed by police spokesperson CSP Moses Yamu, credited law enforcement efforts for the Imam’s return.

But in an interactive session with journalists, the Chief Imam said contrary to the police claim, he paid ransom to the kidnappers.

“I am Imam Muhammad Murtadha Obhakhobo, the Chief Imam of Uromi Central Mosque in Edo Central, I was kidnapped on July, 9, 2025 along the Ubiaja-Illushi road,”

“I got myself released by paying N6.5 million on July 13, but I was shocked to read in the news that I was rescued by the police” he said

He said upon his return from captivity, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Uromi Division visited him to gather information, which he provided.

He said after explaining what transpired to the DPO, he was surprised to see the police “trying to take credit for doing nothing”.

“My release was as a result of private efforts and the payment of substantial ransom and not the efforts of the police.”

He however expressed appreciation to those who prayed for him and showed concerns during his period in captivity.

 

(DailyTrust)

20 killed as gunmen launch deadly attack on Plateau community

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At least 20 people have been killed in a brutal attack by gunmen on Bindi village, located in Ta-Hoss District of Riyom Local Government Area, Plateau State. The deadly assault occurred late Monday night, plunging the rural community into mourning and fear.

Eyewitnesses say the attackers struck under the cover of darkness, storming homes while residents were asleep. The coordinated house-to-house invasion left dozens injured and claimed the lives of women, children, and the elderly, many of whom were unable to escape the sudden violence.

Survivors recounted scenes of terror, describing the assailants as heavily armed and merciless. “They moved from house to house, shooting and setting properties on fire,” one resident told reporters, still shaken by the carnage.

Senator Pam Dachungyang, representing Plateau North, condemned the killings and expressed concern over what he described as a “war situation.”

In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Eric Dung, the Senator said the recurring attacks, including previous ones in Jol and Rim villages, point to a deliberate effort to terrorise and displace farming communities.

“This cycle of daily, unprovoked attacks is an indictment on all of us. The situation in Bindi (Jebu) last night is beyond tragic and stands to be condemned by all. These are people whose primary occupation is farming, and the continued violence is not only destroying lives but also threatening food security and livelihoods,” Senator Dachungyang said.

The Senator further disclosed that he had reached out to the leadership of the National Assembly to push for a more practical and coordinated military response aimed at dislodging the armed elements behind the attacks.

He also called for an urgent review and strengthening of the state’s security architecture, especially the Special Task Force (STF) responsible for peacekeeping in the area.

Also reacting to the killings, the Coalition for the Protection of Democracy (COPDEM), Riyom Chapter, issued a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Gideon Manjal, and Publicity Secretary, Gadu Dong, condemning the attack and calling it part of a broader campaign to displace indigenous people and seize ancestral lands.

“This assault occurred despite the visible presence of security forces in and around the area, including armored military assets. The identities and hideouts of these attackers are known to authorities, yet no meaningful action has been taken to dismantle them,” the group stated.

COPDEM accused both the state and federal authorities of negligence, stressing that repeated attacks on communities like Ta-Hoss, Jol, Rim and Bachi have occurred without adequate protection or justice.

The group called on President Bola Tinubu and Governor Caleb Mutfwang to authorise a full-scale military operation to flush out terrorist elements from Plateau’s regions.

It also urged the government to provide urgent humanitarian aid, trauma counselling and reconstruction support for the affected communities.

Ex-President Buhari Death: IEDPU Mourns, Describes His Exit As Great Loss To The Nation, Entire Humanity

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Raheem Ibrahim

The National President of Ilorin Emirates Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU), Alhaji Abdulmumini Ayo Abdulmalik has descibed the demise of immediate past President, General Muhammadu Buhari as a great loss to the nation and the entire humanity.

Reacting to the news on the death of President Buhari in a London Hospital on Sunday Alhaji Abdulmalik on Monday, he recalled that, aside working for the peace and greatness of the country since he enlisted in the Nigerian Army in 1962, the former President had a special relationship with the people of Ilorin Emirate.

He also recalled that the late former President had a remarkable working relationship with a son of the Emirate, late General Tunde Idiagbon, who served as his deputy when he ruled as the military Head of State from December 31, 1983 and August 27, 1985.

According to him, “General Buhari stood firmly by our community when we lost General Idiagbon. General Buhari, in the company of General Magoro, promptly paid the family and the community condolence visit and stayed some days behind in Ilorin till after the fidau prayers for Idiagbon”.

Alhaji Abdulmalik also said that the people of Ilorin Emirate would remain grateful to the late President for settling for the Wambai of Ilorin and former Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Prof. Ibrahim Agboola Gambari, CFR, as his second and last Chief of Staff in his presidency.

He added that President Buhari’s civilian administration also appointed several indigenes of the community into influential positions.

The community leader, who is a retired Assistant Comptroller-General (ACG) of Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) also testified that President Buhari was so friendly to the Ilorin community that he even accepted to serve as the Chairman of the opening ceremony of the Union’s national conference in 1997, an event that was, however, aborted by an unfortunate political development in which a prominent son of the community was implicated in a fathom coup .

Alhaji Abdulmalik however sympathised with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR; Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON; Government and the people of Katsina state ; particularly the family of the late former President and prayed to Allah to forgive his inadequacies and admit his soul into Aljanat Fridaouz.

On Buhari’s death, By Farooq Kperogi

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It has been announced that former President Muhammadu Buhari passed away in London. Anyone familiar with my writings and commentary knows I vigorously disagreed with many of his policies and decisions while he was president. Our differences were deep, and my criticisms unrelenting.

Yet, news of his passing evokes pathos and an inexplicable sense of loss in me. Death has a humbling power. It reminds us of our shared human fragility, our inevitable mortality, and the transient nature of power, ambition, and even resentment.

I am troubled to see some people celebrating or mocking his passing. Death comes for us all. It is indifferent to politics, power, or privilege. We diminish ourselves when we rejoice in another’s demise. Someday, inevitably, our own turn will come. As Charles Franklin once famously said, “No one gets out of this life alive.”

Today is not a moment for bitterness. It should be an occasion for solemn reflection, for empathy with his grieving family, and perhaps an opportunity for all of us to reconsider how we choose to live, debate, and disagree. Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un!

 

Farooq Kperogi is a renowned columnist and United States-based Professor of Journalism.

 

Crime & Law Edo : Gunmen abduct Chief Imam of Uromi

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The Chief Imam of Uromi, Sheikh Murtadho Muhammad, who also serves as the President of the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN) in the Edo-Delta region, has been abducted by unidentified gunmen.

The cleric was seized around 2 p.m. on Sunday near his home in the Angle 90 area of Uromi, located in Esan North-East Local Government Area of Edo State.

According to eyewitnesses, the Islamic leader had just completed one of the daily prayers and was out to purchase food for his family when the assailants struck and took him away by force.

Speaking on the incident,  Abdulazeez Igbinidu, Chairman of the Edo State chapter of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), denounced the abduction in strong terms.

He said the act was both shameful and unacceptable, urging those responsible to release the cleric without delay or conditions.

“I am hearing that they are asking for a very big amount of money and we don’t have such.Even if you have, if you do such a thing, you are encouraging them,” he said.

Igbinidu also appealed to the Edo State Government to take decisive action to safeguard citizens and ensure the Imam’s safe return.
“They are the ones that have the apparatus for security. So they should do everything possible to ensure that Imam is released unconditionally and without harm.Government should also put up all efforts to ensure that the citizens are able to sleep well with the two eyes closed and work freely without fear of kidnapping or assassination,” he said.

A family member said that the kidnappers have made contact and are demanding a ransom of N30 million.

The incident has raised alarm within the Muslim community, particularly due to the Imam’s prominent status and commitment to youth development.

Efforts to reach the Edo State Police Command for confirmation proved unsuccessful, as calls and text messages to the spokesperson, CSP Moses Yamu, went unanswered.

Tribute to Late President Muhammadu Buhari

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By Brig Gen MB Marwa ( Rtd)

 

It is with profound sorrow that my family and I mourn the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, a true statesman, patriot, and servant-leader who dedicated his life to the service of our great nation. His tenure was marked by unwavering commitment to duty, courage in the face of adversity, and an abiding sense of responsibility to the Nigerian people.

Former President Buhari will be remembered for his steadfast efforts to restore discipline in governance, and pursuit of security and stability during some of the most challenging periods in our national history. His administration championed infrastructural development, advanced agricultural reform, and sought to lay the groundwork for self-sufficiency and national pride.

He possessed the rare ability to inspire calm amidst uncertainty and to lead with quiet resolve. His integrity, simplicity, and personal discipline set him apart as a leader whose actions often spoke louder than words. Through the years, his dedication to public service was evident, in his early days as military Head of State and later as a democratically elected President who returned to power with a vision of national rebirth.

Beyond the realm of politics, former President Buhari was known for his humility and his deep faith. He remained a man of principle, guided by a strong moral compass and a genuine concern for the well-being of ordinary citizens. His leadership was rooted in service, and his legacy will endure in the hearts and memories of Nigerians who believed in his vision of a stronger, and more just nation.

As we mourn his passing, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his beloved family. We stand with them in grief, offering our thoughts, prayers, and support during this time of profound loss.

His legacy shall continue to inspire generations to come, and history will remember him kindly.

May the Almighty Allah, in His infinite mercy, grant the soul of our departed leader Al-Jannah Firdaus.

 

Brig Gen MB Marwa (Rtd) CON, OFR

Chairman/Chief Executive Officer

National Drug law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA)

Monday 14th July 2025

ECHONO GOES TOUGH ON RESOURCE MISAPPLICATION IN TETFUND

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By Tunde Olusunle

 

Sonny Togo Echono, the Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, (TETFUND), would most probably have earned the sobriquet of “action administrator,” if Nigeria were in a military dispensation. Successive military regimes over several years and decades, profited Nigeria’s governance lexicon with sundry additions and infusions. “Action Governor” was one such sobriquet which gained and sustained prominence in public conversations in times past. It referred to military superintendents who were proactive, maybe also heavy-handed in their approach to public service. For their roles in advancing infrastructural development in their states of jurisdiction, Mobolaji Johnson, David Bamigboye, Robert Adebayo, Osaigbovo Ogbemudia, all Army Colonels who administered Lagos, Kwara, Western and Midwestern states, were garlanded as action Governors. Mohammed Buba Marwa, incumbent Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, (NDLEA), a Brigadier-General who led Lagos State between 1996 to 1999, was similarly so decorated.

Marwa was upfront in road rehabilitation, revamp of health institutions and crime control. He initiated a joint military and police task force christened Operation Sweep as a crime containment strategy, which success was adopted by many other states. All of these were consummated by his honorific as an “action administrator.” Marwa’s precedence was emulated by several other states, notably Oyo under Colonel Ahmed Usman and his Kogi State counterpart, Bzigu Lassa Afakirya, who launched Operation Gbale, (gba’le being the Yoruba expression for sweeping), and Operation Hot Chase, respectively. Raji Rasaki, a former military administrator of Lagos State also earned the nickname of akson governor, from his Yoruba-accented pronunciation of the word “action.” He is remembered for the massive demolition of illegal structures which significantly cleared Lagos of shanties and slums. This would subsequently impact the real estate market in the state.

Since his appointment to his present brief a little over three years ago, Echono has demonstrated the ability to talk tough and follow up with similar resoluteness. At every opportunity, Echono has striven to harp on the fact that a new Sheriff is at work in TETFUND. He began his reformation agenda with sequenced encounters with entrenched cabals in the organisation who appropriated to themselves the rights to determine contract awards. To rejig our memories, Echono was one of the pioneer civil servants to be taken through the mills of a new public procurement and due process regime in the early years of the present democratic era. He has “preached the gospel” across his various “bus stops” in public service, which spanned several ministries before his present schedule. He has never been deterred, irrespective of the reactions of the establishment.

His insistence on reorientation and reforms earned him spontaneous adversaries. “Victims” of Echono’s new preachment responded by waging a ferocious media campaign against him, calculated to spin the narrative. The war was escalated to the national legislature which received several petitions alleging humongous fiscal infractions and malfeasance under Echono’s watch. Anti-corruption agencies, notably the Independent Corrupt Practices and Related Offences Commission, (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC) took interest, expectedly, in the untoward information filtering in from TETFUND. To the consternation of Echono’s traducers, he received clean bills of health and glowing testimonials each and every time TETFUND’s systems, and his personal profile were put through the grindstone of serial integrity tests. Such has been Echono’s experience as he moved to stop the preexisting bazaar in TETFUND under his watch.

For academics who have benefitted from the generosity of government by way of scholarships and grants to study in foreign countries but have opted to “defraud” the state, Echono has since wielded the big stick. Certain lecturers and instructors across institutions have been privileged beneficiaries of government funding for further studies abroad. They are usually expected to return to Nigeria to give back to the system which availed them such benevolence, by way of continuing service to their primary employers. Conversely, in many instances, some scholars repay government their benefactor, with a bad coin. They abscond or “defect” as it were. In the face of the current economic situation in the country impacted by inflation and currency devaluation, Echono has since declared that government will no longer play the Santa Claus.

Rather, government will henceforth support in-country capacity building for its intellectuals and scholars. Military officers from many foreign countries for instance receive primary and advanced training in Nigerian military institutions. Almost every graduating set from the Nigerian Defence Academy, (NDA), or the Nigerian Defence College, (NDC), have sprinklings of foreign students. Why wouldn’t indigenous scholars also receive advanced training in retooled and recalibrated home-based institutions? Indeed, Nigerian academics populate the faculties of several universities and training institutions across the world. These include choice destinations like the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Canada, the United Arab Emirates and South Africa. Nigeria can look inwards such that experienced Nigerian scholars and technocrats at home, impact their colleagues desiring retraining and advanced exposure, within the bounds of tolerable financial exertion.

Echono has equally conducted forensic interrogations into the size of tertiary institutions, relative to funding accruable to them. In a milieu where the population of some citadels nestle in upper five figures, Echono finds it curious that the numbers of a few colleges are way below a miserable 100 students! An alarmed Echono once highlighted the specific case of a polytechnic which had just 30 enrollees, which had operated for four years and had continued to receive public funding. For him, such an example is anathema to the intentions of government as channelled through TETFUND. Accountability in the deployment of funding he noted is also paramount. Should unutilised funds be discovered in the accounts of benefitting institutions, such funds will be recalled and reallocated to schools with better performance indices. Equally strident is Echono’s regular admonition against abandoned projects in the nation’s public tertiary institutions. Such unsightly stumps in the landscapes of institutions, such monuments to waste will no longer be tolerated under his watch.

More recently, Echono warned institutions covered by TETFUND against abuse and misuse of intervention funds. At a two-day strategic workshop for Directors of Physical Planning, Academic Planning and ICT which commenced on Monday July 7, 2025 in Abuja, Echono warned that improper utilisation of resources allocated to errant institutions will culminate in the delistment of defaulting institutions. He restated government’s commitment to enabling the nation’s tertiary education system via addressing procedural gaps and ensuring that institutions fully understand the agency’s intervention guidelines. Underperformance and mismanagement, the TETFUND head noted will not be condoned. Echono reiterated that “institutions that fail to access, utilise or retire funds in accordance with TETFUND guidelines, or those that underperform in key academic or operational benchmarks, may be delisted.”

In a public service otherwise construed as dour, uninspiring and tepid, Echono has raised the bar with his well thought interventions. His approach to administration has been characterised by regular engagements and interfaces with key operators of the tertiary education mills. While Vice Chancellors, Rectors, Provosts at the helm in universities, polytechnics and colleges of education were hitherto sole regular guests at meetings with the leadership of TETFUND, the Echono milieu has expanded the scope of engagements. Other key stakeholders in the leadership crust of tertiary institutions, notably heads of administrative, financial and developmental departments, have equally earned the buy-in of TETFUND under Echono’s leadership. The conference hall within the Abuja headquarters complex of the organisation is ever busy with activity. All of these are geared towards a better performing tertiary education system to accord the country with the quality manpower necessary to drive growth and development.

For a dye-in-the-wool public servant who cut his teeth at the very core of the bureaucracy during which he grossed a glowing three and half decades before his current portfolio, Echono’s transformation will constitute the subject of future investigations. He joined the federal civil service in 1987 and retired early 2022. During his years in service, he traversed a string of ministries serving in various capacities and offices. The rule book of the civil service we are told is that “civil servants can be seen but their voices are not to be heard.” Echono evolved from that very same system. His present job description, however, has brought out the more vocal, more forthcoming persona in him, in continuing service to the nation.

 

Tunde Olusunle, PhD, FANA, Fellow of the Association of Nigerian Authors, (FANA), is an Adjunct Professor of Creative Writing at the University of Abuja

Nigeria’s BRICS Partner Status And Initial Gains-By Tunde Rahman

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“Indeed, the gains of attending the recent BRICS Summit and President Tinubu’s friendship with President Da Silva are already manifesting in many respects”

 

 

President Tinubu & Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva

President Donald Trump never ceases to amaze with his haughty and self-aggrandising governance style, endless huffing and puffing, brinkmanship, and tendency to weaponise America’s often-stated exceptionalism and unilateralism.

 

Last weekend, as member states of the fledgling association of the Global South and a growing economic bloc, otherwise called BRICS, were holding their 17th Summit in the Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro, Trump threatened to impose a fresh tariff hike on them, labeling the group a gang-up against America. He warned that any country aligned with the policies of the BRICS alliance that diverge with US interests, would be hit with an extra 10% tariff. “Any country aligning itself with the anti-American policies of BRICS will be charged an additional 10% tariff. There will be no exceptions to this policy,” Trump wrote on his Truth social media.

 

Trump’s threat emerged after BRICS members criticised US tariff policies, proposed some reforms to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and discussed how major currencies are valued. After the two-day meeting in Rio de Janeiro, BRICS Finance Ministers issued a statement criticising tariffs as a threat to the global economy. They noted that they have brought “uncertainty into international economic and trade activities.”

 

Trump has always been disdainful of the BRICS since its formation. In 2024, he threatened 100% tariffs on BRICS countries if they moved ahead with their currency to rival the US dollar. After the association’s recent meeting, he uttered the same threat, saying members of the group were out to de-legitimise the US dollar.

 

The BRICS nations must demonstrate unity of purpose in responding to President Trump. More than ever before, they need to be focused, act in unison, and continue to harp on their collective interest. It’s just as expedient that BRICS members demonstrate they are driven by the need to get a fair deal for their countries within the international system, and that the association is by no means a gang-up against America.

 

BRICS was designed to enhance the member nations’ economic interests and promote their international standing. This may be interpreted as a push against the US and Western Europe, but BRICS nations also have a responsibility to pursue and defend their interests.

 

In this context, one key advantage of BRICS nations is their large population, which translates to a bigger market. BRICS member states account for more than half of the world’s population.Last year, the list of BRICS member countries expanded beyond the original group of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. In January this year, Nigeria became BRICS’ ninth partner country, joining Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan.

 

Because of this partner-country status, President Bola Tinubu attended the 17th Summit of BRICS last week at the invitation of Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva. The Nigerian leader arrived in Rio de Janeiro on Friday, July 4. The next day, July 5, he went into a bilateral meeting accompanied by some of his ministers and governors with the Brazilian leader and some of his cabinet members.

 

Along with the President, cabinet members, including Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, Minister of Foreign Affairs; Senator Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Agriculture; Balarabe Abbas Lawal, Minister of Environment; and Idi Mukhtar Maiha, Minister of Livestock Development; and Mohammed Mohammed, Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), participated in the summit.State governors such as Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Prince Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), and Mohammed Umar Bago (Niger) were also present at the bilateral talks.

 

During the meeting, President Tinubu informed his Brazilian counterpart, Lula Da Silva, that all bottlenecks hindering the agricultural sector’s potential, including livestock production, would be removed to enhance food security and exports.Noting that bureaucracy and administrative hiccups contribute to delays in realising the agricultural sector’s well-acknowledged potential, the President disclosed that Nigeria was already undergoing reform to reposition the economy for global competitiveness, particularly in agriculture, where it already has a comparative advantage.

 

Discussions at the meeting centred mainly on agriculture, including livestock development, environment, aviation, trade and investment, and the Green Initiative, which designs climate-positive migration solutions for addressing climate change risks, market challenges, and innovation opportunities.All the technicalities in actualising the agreements between Nigeria and Brazil, according to President Tinubu, will be streamlined and fast-tracked in areas of trade, aviation, energy transition, food and agricultural development, as well as mining and natural resources exploration.

 

President Lula, on his part, promised that all agreements with Nigeria would be regularised, and MOUs would be updated and signed without delay during President Tinubu’s next visit to the country. He also pointed out that the lingering bureaucratic delays between the two countries would be removed for quick results.

 

Brazil has recorded tremendous achievements in research and development. The country is easily regarded as one of the top global producers of food and other agricultural products. President Tinubu’s visit demonstrates Nigeria’s readiness to establish a strong partnership with Brazil to tap into this feat to stimulate growth in food production and animal husbandry.

 

However, on Sunday, July 6, while addressing the BRICS summit, President Tinubu restated his position on global trade, international financing, climate change, and healthcare, as well as his belief in and support for BRICS. The President advocated a re-evaluation of the current global financial system and healthcare distribution, calling for more consideration, equity, and inclusion for the poor and emerging economies, particularly in Africa.

 

According to President Tinubu, environmental degradation, climate crisis, and inequalities in the healthcare system deserve more attention, as they contribute to hindering growth and development in Third World countries.

 

At the Summit, President Tinubu affirmed Nigeria’s support for the position of BRICS on the need to focus on collective, fair and equitable global development. “Nigeria, therefore, associates with what I have heard here today, and all that has been taking place in BRICS. The next issues are financial restructuring and re-evaluation of the global structure,” he told the BRICS member–states, pointing out that environmental deprivation, climate crisis, and global healthcare inequalities were shared concerns pertinent to Africa.”Africa has contributed the least to global emissions but suffers the most,” the President said, adding: “The African continent is creating the path through the African carbon market initiative and the Great Green Wall. We believe that eventually, COP-30 will strengthen our resolve to embrace a healthy global environment strategically.”

Nigeria, the world’s sixth-most populous country and one of Africa’s major economies, undoubtedly shares convergent interests with other BRICS members.President Tinubu affirmed this much: “Nigeria strongly believes in South-South cooperation. We can, therefore, not be passive participants in global decision-making. So, issues such as financial restructuring, debt forgiveness, climate change, environmental ruin, and global healthcare must be resolved. We must be the architects of a future that addresses the specific needs and concerns of youths, who represent 70 per cent of our population in Nigeria. Therefore, Nigeria remains guided by our long-term vision, 2050, and nationally determined contribution.

 

“We are taking bold steps to accelerate renewable energy adoption, mainstream climate action, promote nature-based solutions, strengthen urban resilience, champion South-South cooperation, align with global renewal framework and achieving universal health coverage for all.”

 

It is instructive that President Tinubu has used every opportunity on the international scene to demand an equitable global trade, accessible financing, sustainable technology transfer, and climate justice. He canvassed the same issues while addressing the 78th United Nations’ General Assembly in New York in September 2023, at UN Climate Change Conference, otherwise called COP28 in Dubai, United Arabs Emirates, in January 2024 and at the 19th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement in Kampala, Uganda, also in January 2024, where he was represented by the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu, among other international forums.

 

Indeed, the gains of attending the recent BRICS Summit and President Tinubu’s friendship with President Da Silva are already manifesting in many respects. Firstly, on the heels of President Tinubu’s visit to Brazil last year, Brazil’s Vice President, Geraldo Alckmin, visited Nigeria this year to build on the agreements reached between Presidents Tinubu and Da Silva, particularly on the Green Initiative.

 

Secondly, on the sidelines of the 17th BRICS summit, the Managing Director of Nigeria’s Bank of Agriculture, Ayo Sotinrin, met with his counterpart from Brazil, where he was informed that President Lula had given a firm directive to Brazilian agricultural institutions and companies to invest heavily in Nigeria.

 

Even back at home, the impact has been no less. On June 25, 2025, the Presidential Implementation Committee on Technology Transfer represented by Dr. Dahiru Mohammed officially signed a strategic partnership agreement with Brazil’s renowned Campos Group to provide technical expertise for the Irrigate Nigeria programme.

 

For some years now, agriculture has been among the highest contributors to Nigeria’s GDP. This collaboration is thus a big boost for Nigeria’s quest to strengthen the agricultural value chain and reduce import dependency through large-scale technology-enabled farming. Campos Group, known for its central role in Brazil’s agricultural revolution under the PRODECER Programme, brings over four decades of expertise in developing irrigated agricultural zones and transforming previously under-utilised lands into thriving agro-industrial hubs.

 

There is much more. But to further reinforce these agreements and consolidate the initial gains, signing a Bilateral Aviation Safety Agreement (BASA) between Nigeria and Brazil has become imperative. This is an ample pathway to bilateral cooperation in various aviation areas, including maintenance, mutual flight operations, and environmental certification. We can glean from the foregoing what a full membership of BRICS would yield for Nigeria. Notwithstanding President Trump’s misguided threat, it will help the country reap the full benefits of associating with the group.

 

-Rahman is Senior Assistant to President Tinubu on Media & Special Duties.

Benybite Foods: Catalyst for economic transformation 

Posted on by admin50

 

By Ayo Oyoze Baje 

 

 

Quote:

“Our goal is to make Plateau a business hub for ventures like this. Once we meet local demand, we can expand beyond the state and even beyond the country,” 

 

-Gov. Mutfwang of Plateau state ( While commissioning Benybite Foods Nigeria Ltd )

 

 

The significant role which the pragmatic practicalization of the value chain of processing, preservation, packaging and marketing add to available raw materials brings to light the dreams of industrialization which boosts the economy of the country concerned. Sadly, over the decades, especially from the ’60s and ’70s to this day lack or inadequate projects with regards to breathing life into our God-given potentials has worsened the dependency syndrome. That is more so as we keep importing the finished products of what we are truly blessed with in abundance at high costs.

 

 

Name them, from cocoa, coffee, cotton, cashew to oil and gas Nigeria has been at the receiving end, or dumping ground of what we should be processing and selling to the world. So, we are nothing short of being grateful to highly determined Nigerians who have kept pushing ahead with passion, perseverance, character and commitment against all odds, as solution-providers.

 

 

Interestingly, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Benybite Foods Nigeria Limited, Mr. Benjamin Kayode-Ojo happens to be one of such game – changers. Precisely on July 8, 2025 the Executive Governor, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, commissioned the ultra-modern maize milling plant of Benybite Foods Nigeria Limited, located in Jos, the Plateau State capital. According to Gyang Bere, the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the governor the event drew top government functionaries and key industry stakeholders. In fact, it marked a major milestone in the governor’s commitment to promoting agro-processing, job creation, and economic growth across the state.

 

 

Worthy of note is that while dressing the gathering, Mutfwang reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to resuscitate ailing industries and make Plateau a hub for agro-industrial activities.

“We want to revive all the ailing industries in the state. That’s why we’ve reached out to Rescue Mill, which is currently on the brink of collapse. Our goal is to make Plateau a business hub for ventures like this. Once we meet local demand, we can expand beyond the state and even beyond the country,” he stated

 

 

Furthermore, the governor commended the management of Benybite Foods Nigeria Ltd. for their bold investment, which he described as a catalyst for economic transformation. He assured the company of continued government support, noting that the initiative aligns seamlessly with his administration’s vision to transform Plateau into a leading industrial and agricultural state.

 

 

On the need for stable electricity and infrastructure to support industrialization, the Mutfwang restated his administration’s resolute commitment to energy sufficiency and improved transportation networks. Going further, he expressed optimism that the recently inaugurated Plateau Energy Commission, led by Ambassador Bagudu Hirse, and the State Energy Corporation under his leadership, will deliver sustainable and tangible outcomes to power industries across the state.

 

 

With regards to what stands Benybite Foods Nigeria Limited, out in good stead Kayode-Ojo, described the factory as the largest of its kind in Plateau state and the second most advanced food processing facility in Nigeria.

This plant places Plateau at the epicentre of modern agricultural processing in the country.”

 

 

Highlighting its unique features he also revealed that the plant has the capacity to mill 6,000 tons of maize monthly and clean over 10,000 tons of maize. The entire facility is built with stainless steel technology, making it one of the most food-processing–friendly environments in the country,” he noted. He added that the plant could serve as a key supplier of raw materials to Jos International Breweries and other food and beverage industries nationwide.

 

 

“We envision a future where Plateau state becomes the raw materials hub for industries across Nigeria. This factory is a strategic part of that vision,” he explained. All these are highly commendable, are they not?

 

 

Of course, they are. And that leads us to the million naira question about the lasting lessons other entrepreneurs should learn from the hands of Nigeria’s newest industrialist in town. One of such is for someone to come up with ideas that act as solution-providers as Ojo has done with the Benybite Foods. Not only is it going to contribute to food security, it will also enhance job creation. Another is to understand the importance of profitable partnerships needed as catalysts to take the dreams to the light of day, as Benybite Foods is cultivating with the Plateau state government.

 

 

Commending Governor Mutfwang for his support and leadership, the Benybite CEO said: “Your Excellency, this commissioning would not have been possible without your passion and commitment to industrial growth. We sincerely appreciate you for honoring our request despite your busy schedule.”

 

He further disclosed that although the plant was initially slated for completion in one year, the project was delivered in just six months, thanks to the expertise and commitment of local technicians’ “This is proof that when we believe in ourselves and invest in local capacity, we can achieve great things,” he emphasized.

 

 

Yet, in all of these one stumbling block stands on the way and must be frontally combated to navigate the path to success. That is the challenge of insecurity. All hands must be on the deck to ensure that farmers in Plateau state, including that of maize are provided the secure and enabling environment for farming, transportation and food processes to succeed.

Kudos again to Kayode-Ojo and the team members of Benybite Foods.

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