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CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, Not Interested in 2023 Presidential Race

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CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, Not Interested in 2023 Presidential Race

Why Powerful Nigerians Are Rooting For Him

No doubt, President Muhammadu Buhari bears, like a badge, an indecipherable flame of affection for the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele. Honestly, his love for Emefiele resonates, even as you read, as a melody of faith whose mutuality and passionate intensity appear to make it untarnished and priceless.

Of course, this can, however, be attributed to Emefiele’s undisguised passion for Nigeria and Nigerians.

There is no gainsaying that the Delta State-born banker has lived a remarkable and eventful life. Despite rising from humble beginnings to assume leadership of the nation’s apex banking institution, he has remained humble and uncompromising of his values. He has maintained a culture of unflinching uprightness and unwavering commitment to the collective good and has remained a staunch patriot and advocate of the common man. This, among others, guarantees his place in the pantheon of Nigeria’s finest citizens.

But, rumour is that alchemy of quiet malice by which mischief-makers concoct a subtle poison from ordinary trifles. No wonder why the CBN governor is perplexed that his name is now being thrown up as a possible candidate in the 2023 presidential election.

For the past few days, there had been a groundswell of speculations that some of Nigeria’s most powerful and wealthiest businessmen and governors within the All Progressives Congress, APC, and the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, are pushing for the candidacy of a neutral south-south person, preferably, a technocrat in the 2023 Presidential election. This powerful coalition reportedly met in Abuja and Lagos days apart to decide on a president who understands the ease of doing business, the plight of the private sector, and the undercurrents of international business in the 21st Century.

The CBN governor was unanimously pinpointed as the ideal man. One of the reasons reportedly being adduced for his choice is that he is eminently qualified for the top job especially as agitations for a candidate of South-south extraction continue to gather traction.

Though a Delta Igbo, Emefiele speaks Yoruba fluently. Before his banking career, he was a lecturer in Finance and Insurance in two Nigerian Universities. He holds degrees in Banking and Finance from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and is also an alumnus of Stanford University, Harvard, and Wharton Graduate Schools of Business where he took courses in Negotiation, Service Excellence, Critical Thinking, Leading Change, and Strategy. Before joining the CBN, he spent over 26 years in commercial banking culminating in his tenure as Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Zenith Bank PLC, one of Nigeria’s largest banks.

He is also regarded as a child of destiny because he did not lobby for his elevation as Group Managing Director of Zenith Bank. Neither did he lobby the PDP government of former President Goodluck Jonathan, which appointed him CBN governor in 2014. Interestingly, despite being a PDP appointee, he was retained by the new APC government of President Buhari. To underscore how much confidence the president reposes in him, he reappointed Emefiele for a second term of five years as CBN governor in May 2019.

Sources close to the president said he appreciates Emefiele for helping Nigeria to experience stable monetary policies, even as it did not witness any crude oil windfall, which is the backbone of the economy. Conversely, the oil price volatility impacted not only the country’s revenue base, but the inflow of foreign exchange (forex), stoking currency depreciation, system arbitrage, and consequent policy measures, leading to calls for the devaluation of the naira.

The CBN governor’s ability to hold on to his belief in the economy and not allow the ship to sink on his watch may have also earned him the second term. Also, through his monetary policies and even interventions in fiscal issues over the past seven years, Emefiele has insisted that the country still holds a high return on investment with huge opportunities given its over the 200-million-people market.

Emefiele oversaw Nigeria’s widely acclaimed response to plummeting oil prices, spiraling inflation, significant exchange rate pressures, sharp fall in forex inflows, delisting of Nigeria from the JP Morgan Bond Index, normalisation of U.S. monetary policy, geopolitical tensions amongst global superpowers, and overall uncertainty after the change of administration in 2015.

Indeed, the stability he brought into the system has been attributed to his innovative Investors and Exporters Window worth $25 billion, which liberalised official transactions of forex, as well as the directive to banks to sell forex to customers over the counter for basic travel allowance (BTA) and medical and education bills.

Beyond forex stability, which saw massive accretion in Nigeria’s foreign exchange reserves from about $23 billion in October 2016 to nearly $48 billion in June 2018, Emefiele’s policies also significantly helped Nigeria achieve a fast recovery from recession, which was caused by sharp and sustained oil price declines from 2015 through 2017.

In the area of fiscal interventions, the CBN governor sustained large-scale financing of agriculture through the innovative Anchor Borrowers’ Programme, which has disbursed hundreds of billions of naira in small loans to hundreds of thousands of peasant farmers, thereby creating millions of jobs across the country. As evidence of the new discipline through tight monetary policies, his tenure has witnessed unprecedented profits in the banking industry, with GT Bank and Zenith Bank leading the way with record performances.

With all these, Emefiele succeeded in facilitating major improvement in Nigeria’s ranking on the World Bank’s Doing Business Indicators through the creation of the collateral registry and credit reference bureaus.

This record of achievements is why the coalition believes that Emefiele is eminently qualified to succeed President Buhari and steer the ship of state aright.

However, sources close to the CBN governor say emphatically that he is not interested in the top job. Rather, he is content seeing through his term and enthroning a Central Bank that is professional, apolitical, and people-focused.

Governor Emefiele, according to sources very close to him, has neither privately or publicly expressed interest or desire to contest for any election. Going by the highlighted fact, a powerful source maintained that, “If the records must be set straight, the Governor that I know is one straightforward individual who does not shy away from taking responsibility for his intentions or actions.

“Consequently, if he is interested in contesting, by now, he would have appropriately put the issue in the public domain without having to cut corners.”

Emefiele, he stressed, by virtue of his antecedents and pedigree is eminently qualified to run in 2023

“Nevertheless, a popular adage says that you cannot shave a man’s hair in his absence. Therefore, if and when he decides to throw his hat into the ring, the good people of Nigerians will be adequately put in the picture.

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Among His Peers, Oba Orin Saheed Osupa Stands Out : The Fuji Star’s Storytelling Legacy By Alhaji Arems

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Among His Peers, Oba Orin Saheed Osupa Stands Out : The Fuji Star's Storytelling Legacy By Alhaji Arems

Among His Peers, Oba Orin Saheed Osupa Stands Out : The Fuji Star’s Storytelling Legacy

By Alhaji Arems

 

In the vibrant world of Fuji music, where the artistry of storytelling and cultural commentary thrive, Saheed Osupa has carved out a unique role as both an artist and an influencer of thought. Recently, his name has been lighting up social media discussions and generating significant buzz—not just because of his music but because of the depth of his words. Osupa’s trending status is rooted in his ability to subtly address pressing issues, particularly those surrounding the ongoing tension between fellow Fuji musicians Taye Currency and Pasuma Wonder.

 

 

Osupa’s recent contributions to this situation have not been straightforward; rather, he has adopted an artistic approach, using parables and proverbs—sometimes through complex storytelling—to impart wisdom. These nuanced messages, often hidden within his lyrics, resonate with fans who appreciate the clever way he brings age-old Yoruba wisdom into contemporary issues. One notable example involves a story about an animal (traditionally symbolizing patience and resilience) that many believe reflects Osupa’s thoughts on rivalry and pride. Through this parable, he seems to suggest the importance of self-reflection and restraint, especially in the heat of conflict.

Among His Peers, Oba Orin Saheed Osupa Stands Out : The Fuji Star's Storytelling Legacy

By Alhaji Arems

In a genre that values not only musicality but also the power of words, Osupa has long been seen as a master of *itan*, or storytelling. His recent songs echo the traditional Yoruba way of imparting wisdom through tales that serve as lessons. This is a skill that few artists have mastered, making his approach particularly impactful in today’s fast-paced digital world, where nuanced messages can often be overlooked.

Beyond the Taye Currency-Pasuma Wonder issue, Osupa’s trending status is also due to his reputation as a voice of reason and maturity in Fuji music. As a genre that is often vibrant and full of competitive spirit, Fuji has its share of rivalries. Yet, Osupa has often stood out by promoting unity and peaceful dialogue among Fuji artists. By sharing these reflective stories in his music, he adds layers of meaning that fans continue to unpack and discuss, drawing new audiences who appreciate both the artistry and wisdom behind his words.

The charm of Saheed Osupa lies in his timeless approach. In a world where trends are fleeting, he reminds fans of the importance of timeless values, urging reflection, humility, and understanding. As fans interpret and share his latest stories, Osupa’s message continues to resonate widely—proof that, in Fuji, the power of words can be as influential as the beat of the drum.

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What You Need To Know About Award-Winning Nigerian Actor, Mustapha Sholagbade

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What You Need To Know About Award-Winning Nigerian Actor, Mustapha Sholagbade

What You Need To Know About Award-Winning Nigerian Actor, Mustapha Sholagbade

 

Mustapha Ololade Sholagbade, born on January 1, 1989, in Ebute Metta, Lagos, is an accomplished Nigerian actor, producer, and filmmaker with a deep passion for Yoruba cinema. Originally from Abeokuta, Ogun State, he is the first child in his family. Sholagbade began his education at Kadara Primary School and continued at Sojomen Talabi High School, Akute, and Nawairudeen Secondary School, Ebute Metta. He later earned an Ordinary Narional Diploma in Business Administration from the Lagos State Polytechnic. Pursuing his passion for acting, he trained at Odunfa Caucus, where he graduated in 2010.

Sholagbade launched his acting career in 2005, making a name for himself in Yoruba-language films. His portfolio includes roles in popular films like Olowo Ghetto, Alaimo, Ebun Mi, Esi, Gold and Treasure, Liam, Emilomo Babaolowo, Oko Aunty Mi, Broken Bond (Tude), and Last Born. In addition to acting, he has also produced several films, further cementing his influence in the industry.

Beyond the entertainment world, Sholagbade is a versatile professional with experience in railway engineering, IT support, and site management in the UK. He is also a farmer and general merchant, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit and diverse skill set.

Throughout his career, Sholagbade has collaborated with top figures in Yoruba cinema, such as Yinka Quadri, Taiwo “Ogogo” Hassan, Funke Akindele, Femi Adebayo, Odun Adekola, Oga Bello, Baba Wande, Jide Kosoko, Funsho Adeolu, Fathia William Balogun, Saidi Balogun, Wunmi Toriola, and Mide Martins.

Sholagbade’s hobbies include traveling, business, football, filmmaking, and meeting new people, reflecting his dynamic and outgoing personality.

Sholagbade’s talent and dedication to his craft have earned him numerous accolades, including: Best Actor Yoruba – BON Awards, 2024, Best Supporting Actor– Afro Nollywood Awards, UK, 2019, Best Supporting Actor– Heritage Awards, Atlanta, USA, Best Supporting Actor of the Year (Yoruba) – City People Movie Awards, Best New Actor of the Year (Yoruba) – City People Movie Awards.

With his achievements and versatility, Mustapha Ololade Sholagbade remains a notable force in the Nigerian film industry and a proud ambassador of Yoruba cinema worldwide.

What You Need To Know About Award-Winning Nigerian Actor, Mustapha Sholagbade

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Coalition Congratulates Oluyede on Appointment as Acting COAS

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Coalition Congratulates Oluyede on Appointment as Acting COAS

Coalition Congratulates Oluyede on Appointment as Acting COAS

 

The Coalition of Civil Society Groups against Terrorism in Nigeria has congratulated Major-General Olufemi Oluyede on his appointment as the acting Chief of Army Staff, (Ag COAS, Nigerian Army).

Coalition Congratulates Oluyede on Appointment as Acting COAS

The Convener of the Coalition, Comrade Oladimeji Odeyemi, in a statement, said General Oluyede has the responsibility to consolidate the success achieved by the Nigerian Army under General Taoreed Lagbaja.

President Bola Tinubu had on Wednesday, October 30, appointed Oluyede as acting COAS pending the return of the indisposed substantive Chief of Army Staff, General Taoreed Lagbaja.

The Coalition said his appointment is a welcome development. It said: “Major-General Olufemi Oluyede is well qualified for the position. He was a member of the 39th regular course and commissioned as an officer in 1987. Aged 56, he was promoted to the rank of Major-General in September 2020. A professional and top-notch security expert, he brings a lot of hope and inspiration to younger officers as acting chief of Army Staff.

“His appointment is the way to go. As the acting Chief of Army Staff, Oluyede has the responsibility to lead an army that will administratively manage the institution, consolidate on the success achieved by General Lagbaja and his team to mop up remnants of insurgents, bandits and the ragtag criminal elements in the North, and dismantle the ethnic militias in the Southeast to bring peace in the country.

“The 56-year-old Oluyede shares a long history with General Lagbaja, with a track record and excellent service to the nation. Both are members of the 39th Regular Course and were commissioned as officers in 1987.

“Oluyede’s meritorious career began as a Platoon commander and adjutant at 65 Battalion, advancing to Company commander at 177 Guards Battalion and later Staff Officer at the Guards Brigade and commandant of Amphibious Training School.

“Oluyede has been part of many notable operations, including the ECOMOG Mission in Liberia, Operation HARMONY IV in Bakassi, and Operation HADIN KAI in the Northeast, where he commanded the 27 Task Force Brigade.

“He has received honours, including the Corps Medal of Honour, and Grand Service Star, all recognition for passing the Staff Course and membership in the National Institute, and his dedication and achievements in service.”

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