

Feature
Full Text: OGFZA MD’s Opening Remarks at the 30th Anniversary of Free Zones Scheme in Nigeria
Opening Remarks by Sen. Tijjani Y. Kaura, MFR, Managing Director/CEO OGFZA, at the 30th anniversary of the Free Zones Scheme in Nigeria, on 30th November, 2022.
Protocols
His Excellency, the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR;
His Excellency, Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, GCON;
Honourable Minister of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Otunba Adebayo Adeniyi
Honourable Minister for Niger Delta Affairs, my predecessor in office here present
Honourable Ministers from fellow African countries
Members of the National Assembly here present
Members of the Diplomatic Corps
Heads of Extra Ministerial Departments
Prof. Adesoji Adesugba, Managing Director/CEO of NEPZA
The Executive Secretary and Members of Africa Economic Zones who are here
The Executive Secretary, Nigeria Economic Zones Association and Chairman of the Planning Committee, Mr. Toyin Elegbede.
Leaders of the Organised Private Sector
Distinguished delegates, Gentlemen of the Press, Ladies and Gentlemen,
All protocols duly observed. Good morning.
It gives me immense pleasure to welcome you all most cordially to this historic event, the 30th anniversary of the Special Economic Zones Scheme in Nigeria.
I would like to specially welcome our international participants who have travelled into Nigeria to join us in commemorating this milestone celebration. I sincerely hope that you will find these events enjoyable and memorable.
The theme of this year’s event, “Nigeria Special Economic Zones Scheme: Evolvement, Challenges and Way Forward To Economic Growth and Sustainability” will open discussions that will benefit industry participants and Special Economic Zones in the continent.
The objectives of the scheme which encompass driving industrialization via export promotion, technology, skills and knowledge transfer, job creation, local and foreign direct investment attractiveness has however, not been without challenges over the years. Notwithstanding the enormous challenges, the FZ scheme has recorded significant milestones within the last thirty years.
Regardless of the achievements made so far, the scheme in Nigeria still lags in delivering key economic developmental indices compared to what has been attained by Free Zone schemes in other locations.
Thus, one of the expected take-aways from this anniversary is for all stakeholders to deliberate and interact with the aim of evolving a sustainable strategic and perspective roadmap that will enhance the development and attractiveness of scheme in Africa.
This conference offers us an opportunity to evaluate the status of the Free Zones Scheme, assess our performance since inception, and examine how we have evolved, then deliberate and collectively chart a growth-oriented approach to improving the scheme.
In these three (3) days, there would be presentations and exhibitions as well as panel sessions on the facets of the Special Economic Zones scheme. Through the lively discussions that will ensue, we will undoubtedly learn from each other, through the exchange of views, sharing experiences and appreciating critical contributors to the evolution, as well as the survival of the scheme in Nigeria.
The scheme has been used to boost economies of nations around the globe, while depleting African resources. We hope to change the tide and narrative in the spirit of shared prosperity, by harnessing the enormous human, intellectual and natural resource capacities that Africa is endowed with. In order to effectively harness these, we can no longer work in silos.
It may interest you to know that the earliest formal Free Zone Scheme in Africa started in 1885 when the Berlin Conference agreement was signed, but without an African representation. Specifically, the Niles, Congo and Niger Rivers were Free Trade Zones. Thanks to the African Continental Free Trade Agreement that is driven by Africans and geared towards achieving an African continental integrated economy.
I would like to thank and acknowledge everyone here today for being part of this historic event. As the Chief Executive Officer of the Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority (OGFZA), it is a tremendous honour to play host to the African Special Economic Zones community and to hundreds of delegates from all over Africa. It is indeed a remarkable day for Africa, a major milestone in our drive to promote Special Economic Zones development in Africa.
Please permit me to express my sincere appreciation to my co – host the Managing Director of Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA), Professor Adesoji Adesugba, the Executive Secretary of Nigeria Economic Zones Association (NEZA) Mr. Toyin Elegbede who also doubles as the Chairman of the Planning Committee, and to all of you who generously contributed towards the successful organisation and hosting of this event.
Taking cognizance of our comparative advantage in the hydrocarbon sector, Nigeria established the first free zone dedicated to oil and gas in the world. This has tremendously contributed to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Income, in an unprecedented manner. Between 1996 and now, the zones have attracted over 200 Companies with over $16.6 billion and created over 200,000 direct and indirect jobs, thereby contributing to local content development. We are still open to partnership to develop the enormous potentials in the mid and downstream sectors in line with the Nigeria’s national development plan, with immediate emphasis on the Medium-Term National Development Plan,2021-2025, while providing model development centres for achieving the agenda 2063 of the African Union, in collaboration other international development partners.
At this point, I wish us all a successful celebration!!
Thank you!
Feature
Ex-Oyo Governor Ladoja Installed as 44th Olubadan of Ibadan

The odyssey of Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja to the ancestral throne of Ibadan is not only historic but profoundly political, laced with trials and triumphs.

History often unfolds slowly, like a scroll revealing one line at a time. In Ibadan, a city steeped in tradition and resilience, history has once again taken a defining turn.
Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, former governor of Oyo State, businessman, politician, and activist, is now preparing to ascend the exalted throne as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
His decades-long journey, filled with trials, victories, and service, tells a compelling story of destiny, courage, and legacy. From political powerhouses to royal lineage, from boardrooms to the battlefields of democracy, Ladoja’s life blends tradition with transformation. His ascension is not only personal fulfilment but also a cultural and historical moment for Ibadanland.
Indeed, his coronation stands as a milestone, a testament to resilience, faith, and destiny fulfilled. On September 26, 2025, Oba Ladoja will be crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, closing a circle that began 34 years ago when he became Mogaji of his family compound in Isale-Osi. But this is no ordinary coronation; it is the culmination of a saga defined by ambition, resistance, exile, betrayal, resilience, and ultimately, triumph.
Road to Royalty: From Mogaji to Monarch
It began in 1991 when Rashidi Ladoja became Mogaji (family head) of the Arusa compound in Isale Osi, a deeply rooted quarter in Ibadan South-West Local Government Area. That symbolic beginning marked the first step on Ibadan’s rigorous 36-step chieftaincy ladder, reserved for those destined to wear the revered crown.
The Ibadan succession system is unique among Yoruba kingdoms. Unlike other traditional stools where royal families are narrowed to specific lineages, the Olubadan system is remarkably open and transparent. Two lines of succession, the civil (Otun) and the military (Balogun), run concurrently, and candidates rise step by step until the next in line becomes Olubadan. It is an orderly system that rewards longevity, patience, and service, making the throne one of the most respected in Yorubaland.
On October 1, 1993, Ladoja was installed as Jagun Balogun Olubadan, formally entering the military line of succession. Over the next 31 years, he advanced steadily, surviving political turbulence, personal setbacks, and traditional disputes. Few endure the politically charged and physically demanding journey to the top, but Senator Ladoja did — with grit, patience, and determination.
“I never imagined destiny would call me to the throne at this time. It’s been one of patience, perseverance, and grace,” Oba Ladoja told a gathering at his Bodija residence after his official nomination.
Political Elite Meets Royal Heritage
In a city of warriors and statesmen, Oba Ladoja is the first former governor and senator to become Olubadan.
Trained as a chemical engineer in Belgium, he made his mark in oil, shipping, banking, agriculture, and transport before rising as a political force.
During the short-lived Third Republic, he was elected senator on the platform of the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP). In 2003, he defeated incumbent Lam Adesina to become Governor of Oyo State on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Two years later, he was impeached in what many described as a conspiracy driven by then-President Olusegun Obasanjo and political strongman, Lamidi Adedibu. His reinstatement by the Supreme Court after 11 months in exile was more than a legal victory — it was a political resurrection. It cemented his reputation as “the indomitable warrior”, a man political opponents could not erase or ignore.
That resilience, combined with patient navigation of Ibadan’s chieftaincy system, has now borne fruit.
“It has been a bumpy journey filled with trials, but only made possible by the grace of God,” he told jubilant supporters.
Defiance and Reconciliation
Ladoja’s political career was often defined by principles that put him at odds with powerful figures.
In 2018, when then-Governor Abiola Ajimobi crowned Ibadan High Chiefs as kings, Ladoja stood alone in defiance. He rejected what he called a “carton-paper-made” beaded crown, declaring that the only crown worthy of him was the Olubadan’s. His refusal sparked years of political and legal confrontation.
“Why should I wear a crown not recognised by tradition?” he asked. “The throne is not for the desperate.”
Yet, in August 2024, in a radio interview, he softened his stance, saying unity was more important than pride: “The voice of the people is the voice of God. I am ready to accept the beaded crown if it will bring peace and allow me to serve the people of Ibadan.”
That statement shifted the atmosphere. His colleagues in the Olubadan-in-Council rallied behind him, and he was soon unanimously nominated and approved by Governor Seyi Makinde as the 44th Olubadan.
Unlike his clashes with Ajimobi, Ladoja’s relationship with Governor Makinde has been cordial and strategic. Makinde’s prompt approval of his nomination reflected a convergence of political and traditional power, a necessity in Oyo State where the Olubadan stool carries both cultural influence and political weight.
The Crown and the City
Ibadan is no ordinary city. It is the largest traditional Yoruba urban centre and the historic political capital of the old Western Region. The Olubadan, though largely symbolic, wields influence over millions.
For Oba Ladoja, this reign is not ceremonial. It is an opportunity to redefine the stool, blending cultural authority with political wisdom.
“I pray that my reign shall bring peace, prosperity, and progress to Ibadanland,” he said, calling for unity.
Expectations are high. From Oke Aremo to Abuja, all eyes are on him to redefine the modern monarch’s role not just custodian of rituals, but guardian of peace, diplomacy, and security. He has already urged coordinated efforts to secure Ibadan and Yorubaland amid rising insecurity.
The coronation of Oba Ladoja is more than a local event; it is a national stage. Expected guests include President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, former governors, business moguls, activists, and traditional rulers across Yorubaland and beyond.
Their presence underlines the symbolic place of Ibadan in Yoruba and Nigerian politics.
Activism, Sacrifice, and Legacy
Ladoja’s story is not just about royalty; it is about activism and identity. As a NADECO stalwart, he stood against military rule in the 1990s, supporting the pro-democracy struggle after the annulment of the June 12 election.
Chief Adeniyi Akintola (SAN) recalls: “We used his ships for NADECO’s activities after the Senate was dissolved. His businesses were seriously affected — he had a shipping line and the largest palm plantation in West Africa then.”
As governor, he challenged a sitting president. As High Chief, he resisted compromising tradition. As a businessman, he sacrificed fortune for democracy. Now, as Olubadan, he embodies the fusion of political power and cultural authority.
To former Nigerian Ambassador, Dr. Yemi Farounbi, “Ibadan is the intellectual capital of Nigeria. It provided security for the Yoruba in times of war. Peace must return, and the Olubadan must lead it.”
Professor Tunde Adeniran, a former minister, added: “He comes with experience and expansive networks. Expectations are high. We must rally around him.”
For younger Ibadan residents, his ascension represents continuity and hope. “We grew up hearing about his struggles as governor and his fight for justice,” said Akeem Alabi, a postgraduate student at the University of Ibadan. “Now he is our king. We expect him to stand for the people, just as he did in politics.”
The Crown After the Storm
For many, the crowning of Oba Rashidi Ladoja is poetic justice, a fitting epilogue to a life of battles in politics, business, and tradition.
From Mogaji in 1991 to Olubadan in 2025, from impeachment to reinstatement, from defiance to reconciliation, he now wears the crown not as a reward but as a responsibility.
The royal father is no longer just the “cat with nine lives”; he is the king whose destiny has come full circle.
Governor Seyi Makinde has expressed readiness to work seamlessly with Oba Ladoja towards the development of Ibadan city, describing the new monarch as an exemplary leader whose wealth of experience in politics, business, and community service will enrich the Olubadan stool.
Makinde recalled that his own political journey could not be written without Ladoja’s role, stressing that: “Baba remains a father figure whose guidance has shaped many of us. I hold him in high esteem, and I believe Ibadan and Oyo State will benefit from his reign as Olubadan.”
As Ibadan embraces this new chapter, the coronation of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja stands as both history and prophecy fulfilled a story of destiny, resilience, and triumph, written across the canvas of politics, tradition, and legacy.
CULLED FROM THE GUARDIAN
Feature
𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗹. 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗣𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗲: 𝗛𝗼𝗻. 𝗢𝘁𝘂𝗼’𝘀 “𝗡𝗼 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝘆” 𝗮 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗵𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗣𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗲𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝗔𝗻𝗱𝗼𝗻𝗶

By Ima-owaji G. Shedrack
As the world commemorates the International Day of Peace, attention has once again shifted to the bold and inclusive policies of the Chairman of Andoni Local Government Area, Hon. Promise Lucky Otuo, whose leadership style has been described as a model for peacebuilding and sustainable development.
Since assuming office, Hon. Otuo has consistently emphasized that his government is a “no discrimination government,” a philosophy set to guide his policies and programs across the council.
In a remarkable demonstration of this principle, the Chairman extended empowerment opportunities not only to indigenes but also to non-indigenes residing and trading in Andoni. This inclusive approach, observers say, has deepened trust, fostered unity, and reduced the tensions that often arise from feelings of neglect or inequality.
Mr. Ima-owaji G. Shedrack, a stakeholder in the Renewed Hope family, applauded the initiative, noting that Hon. Otuo has shown that peace is not just about preventing conflict but also a conscious steps in building an environment where fairness and inclusiveness are at the center of governance.
“As Andoni joins the world to mark the International Day of Peace, Hon. Lucky Otuo’s leadership style that is anchored on ‘no discrimination’ is built to offer a clear roadmap, where peace is not only preached but practiced through deliberate policies of fairness and equal opportunity.”
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Feature
Eid-ul-Mawlid: Uphold Hon. Lucky Otuo in your prayers, Ima-owaji Shedrack Urges non indigenes in ANOLGA

A stakeholder in Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State, Ima-owaji Shedrack, has called on Muslim faithful in the area to remember the Chairman of Andoni LGA, Hon. Lucky Promise Otuo, in their prayers as they celebrate Eid-ul-Mawlid, the commemoration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
Speaking on Friday during the nationwide celebration, Ima-owaji stressed the importance of continuous prayers for leaders at all levels, describing Hon. Lucky Otuo’s administration as one that transcends sentiments, tribal lines, and religious differences.
“The government of Hon. Lucky Otuo is one beyond discrimination. Both indigenes and non-indigenes are carried along. This is why I urge our Muslim brothers and sisters to use this sacred celebration to pray for him and for the peace, progress, and prosperity of Andoni LGA,” Ima-owaji said.
He further noted that the Eid-ul-Mawlid celebration provides Muslims with another opportunity to renew their commitment to unity and inclusiveness, while also offering prayers for leaders who are steering the affairs of the people with sincerity.
Ima-owaji urged residents of Andoni, regardless of religion or origin, to embrace peace and support the development agenda of Hon. Otuo’s administration, which he said is focused on progress and inclusivity.
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Feature
What to Know About CBN’s New Geo-Tagging Requirement for POS Terminals

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has issued a new directive requiring all Point of Sale (POS) terminals to be geo-tagged within the next 60 days, a move designed to curb fraud, enhance oversight, and modernize Nigeria’s digital payment ecosystem.
According to a circular released on August 26, 2025, any terminal not geo-tagged will be deactivated from October 20, 2025.
“This initiative is designed to ensure that all PoS terminals are traceable and that transactions are secure. Terminals operating outside their registered location will be flagged, and non-compliant devices will be deactivated,” the CBN stated.
Here’s a breakdown of what the policy means for operators, agents, merchants, and customers.
What Geo-Tagging Means
Geo-tagging is the process of embedding location data, such as latitude and longitude, into a digital device.
For POS terminals, this means linking each machine to its exact physical address using GPS technology, creating a traceable digital footprint that makes every device verifiable and harder to misuse.
The CBN’s Key Requirements
- Geolocation Features
All POS devices must have GPS and dual-frequency receivers for accurate location tracking. - Real-Time Location Transmission
Terminals must capture and transmit their exact location at the start of every transaction. - Geofencing
Each POS terminal will be restricted to a 10-metre radius around its registered location. Transactions outside this zone will be flagged for investigation. - Registration
Licensed banks and fintechs—such as Moniepoint, OPay, PalmPay, and others—must register each device with exact merchant coordinates through a payment aggregator. - New Devices
No new terminal will be certified or activated without geo-tagging.
Why Geo-Tagging Matters
- Crackdown on Fraudulent Terminals
Geo-tagging eliminates “ghost” or cloned devices and reduces card fraud, unauthorized withdrawals, and misuse of mobile POS machines. It also disrupts ransom collections and terrorism financing through untraceable transactions. - Better Oversight and Transparency
Regulators gain real-time visibility of nationwide transactions, improving fraud detection and aiding financial inclusion strategies by identifying underserved areas. - Boosting Consumer Trust
Customers gain stronger protection knowing every POS is tied to a verified address, building confidence in digital payments.
Impact on Stakeholders
- Banks & Fintechs
Institutions face the challenge of upgrading thousands of terminals and registering them within 60 days, requiring both funding and logistics. - POS Agents & Merchants
Operators must work strictly within 10 metres of their registered business location, potentially disrupting mobile POS services that move around to serve customers. - Customers
Shoppers stand to benefit most, with safer and more transparent transactions in Nigeria’s payment system.
Conclusion
The CBN’s geo-tagging directive is one of the most sweeping reforms in Nigeria’s digital payments landscape. While it presents operational hurdles for banks, fintechs, and agents, it promises stronger security, fraud reduction, and renewed consumer trust in the long run.
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Feature
Goodluck Nwaneri Pays Condolence Visit To The APC National Chairman

Chief Goodluck Nwaneri, a Director city boy movement, has paid a condolence visit to the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, at his residence in Abuja, following the passing of his beloved mother, late Mrs. Lydia Toma Yilwatda.
During the visit, Chief Nwaneri expressed his deep sympathy to Prof. Nentawe and the entire Yilwatda family, describing the death of a mother as a painful and irreplaceable loss. He noted that the late Mrs. Lydia Toma Yilwatda lived an exemplary life of faith, humility, and service, evident in the leadership qualities and values instilled in her children.
Chief Nwaneri prayed for the peaceful repose of her soul and asked God to grant the APC National Chairman and his family the strength and fortitude to bear the painful loss. He also encouraged them to find comfort in the enduring legacy their mother left behind.
He further reaffirmed his solidarity with Prof. Nentawe in this moment of grief, while urging the family to remain strong and united in honoring the life and memory of their departed matriarch.
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