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FEC Approves Major Digital Expansion and AI Development Projects

FEC Approves Major Digital Expansion and AI Development Projects

 

 The Federal Executive Council (FEC), chaired by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has approved two landmark initiatives aimed at expanding digital connectivity and advancing artificial intelligence (AI) development in Nigeria.

The approvals, announced by the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, mark significant progress in the federal government’s commitment to technological transformation and economic growth.

Bridging Nigeria’s Digital Divide

In a bold move to enhance digital access, the FEC has approved the Nigeria Universal Communication Access Project, a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) initiative designed to provide mobile communication services to underserved communities.

The project, which aligns with the ministry’s Strategic Blueprint, will complement Project Bridge, a 90,000km nationwide fibre expansion initiative. It is expected to connect over 21 million people across 4,834 remote communities, ensuring that Nigerians in the most isolated regions gain access to essential communication infrastructure.

“Many of us take connectivity for granted, but millions of Nigerians still lack basic mobile network coverage,” Dr. Tijani stated. “This project will help bridge that gap, improving quality of life and fostering economic growth in rural areas.”

Nigeria Takes the Lead in AI Innovation

In another groundbreaking decision, the FEC has also approved the establishment of the National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Trust, positioning Nigeria as a leader in AI governance and innovation.

This first-of-its-kind global initiative will bring together 10 AI experts, alongside the Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy and the Minister of Science, Innovation & Technology. The AI Trust will be responsible for mobilizing resources, providing oversight, and shaping the future of AI development in Nigeria.

Dr. Tijani highlighted the significance of the initiative, stating, “AI has the potential to transform key sectors of our economy, create jobs, and attract foreign investments. The National AI Trust will ensure Nigeria remains at the forefront of this technological revolution.”

Strengthening Nigeria’s Digital Economy

The approval of these two projects underscores the Tinubu administration’s commitment to expanding digital access and fostering technological innovation. With increased investment in connectivity infrastructure and AI, Nigeria is set to accelerate economic prosperity and enhance its global competitiveness in the digital space.

“This government recognizes the power of technology in driving national development,” Dr. Tijani emphasized. “These initiatives are crucial steps in ensuring that Nigeria remains a leading force in the digital economy.”

The projects are expected to roll out in phases, with further details on implementation strategies to be announced in the coming months.

Softree Technical Systems & Kecam Technologies Announce Exclusive Webinar on Rural Road Design in West Africa

Softree Technical Systems & Kecam Technologies Announce Exclusive Webinar on Rural Road Design in West Africa

Softree Technical Systems, a globally recognized Canadian provider of civil engineering software solutions, in collaboration with Kecam Technologies Limited, the authorized distributor of Softree RoadEng Civil Engineer and Softree Optimal, is pleased to invite industry professionals to an exclusive webinar titled:

“Rural Road Design in West Africa Using RoadEng”

This highly informative session is designed to showcase the efficiency and effectiveness of RoadEng Civil Engineer, a specialized road design software tailored for infrastructure development in rural and remote regions.

📅 Date: Thursday, February 6, 2025
⏰ Time: 3:30 PM WAT
🔗 Registration: Click here to register

What to Expect

The webinar will provide participants with a step-by-step guide on executing rural road design projects in West Africa using RoadEng Civil Engineer. Attendees will gain firsthand knowledge on:

  • Efficient Road Design Using Total Station Data – Learn how to input and process survey data for road alignment and grading.
  • Terrain Analysis & Route Optimization – Explore how RoadEng simplifies corridor design by analyzing terrain and suggesting optimal routes.
  • Cross-Section & Drainage Design – Understand how to generate cross-sections and integrate essential drainage features for rural road projects.
  • Construction Documentation & Cost Estimation – Learn how to generate precise construction drawings and cost estimates to support budgeting and decision-making.

This interactive session will be led by industry experts who will demonstrate real-life applications of RoadEng Civil Engineer in rural road projects across West Africa. Participants will also have the opportunity to engage in a Q&A session to address specific challenges related to rural road design and infrastructure development.

Who Should Attend?

This webinar is ideal for:
✅ Civil Engineers & Infrastructure Planners – Professionals involved in road and highway design, particularly in challenging terrains.
✅ Government Agencies & Rural Development Experts – Policy makers and engineers working on rural road projects.
✅ Construction & Engineering Firms – Organizations looking to optimize their road design and project planning processes.
✅ Educational Institutions & Researchers – Academics and students interested in modern road design technologies.

Why Attend?

  • Learn from Experts – Gain insights from Softree Technical Systems and Kecam Technologies, leaders in road design technology.
  • Enhance Your Skills – Get practical knowledge on designing efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable rural roads.
  • Exclusive Access to RoadEng Features – Explore the software’s capabilities in real-time and understand how it can improve project delivery.
  • Network with Industry Peers – Connect with fellow professionals in the civil engineering and infrastructure sector.

How to Register

Participation in this webinar is completely free, but pre-registration is required to secure a spot. Interested participants can register via the following link:

🔗 Register Here

For further inquiries, please contact:

📧 Email: info@kecamtechnologies.com
📞 Phone: +234 XXX XXX XXXX

About Softree Technical Systems

Softree Technical Systems is a leading provider of innovative civil engineering software, specializing in terrain modeling, corridor design, and road engineering solutions. Its flagship software, RoadEng Civil Engineer, is widely used in rural road design, forestry, mining, and energy infrastructure projects worldwide.

About Kecam Technologies Limited

Kecam Technologies Limited is an authorized distributor of Softree RoadEng Civil Engineer and Softree Optimal, delivering cutting-edge road design and civil engineering solutions to professionals across West Africa. The company provides software solutions, training, and technical support to ensure seamless project execution in road infrastructure and related fields.

Join Us for This Transformational Learning Experience!

Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your road design skills with RoadEng Civil Engineer and gain a competitive edge in infrastructure development.

📅 Save the Date: February 6, 2025 – 3:30 PM WAT
🔗 Register Now: Click Here

 

HoaQ Club Appoints Folakemi Osho as General Manager Amid Leadership Transition

HoaQ Club Appoints Folakemi Osho as General Manager Amid Leadership Transition

 

HoaQ Club has announced the promotion of Folakemi Osho to the position of General Manager, marking a significant leadership transition for the investment syndicate. The announcement was made by Joe Kinvi, Founder of HoaQ Club and former Stripe and Paystack executive, who revealed that he would be stepping into the role of Chairperson while focusing on his new venture, Borderless.

Kinvi, reflecting on HoaQ’s journey since its inception in 2020, shared how his initial fascination with angel investing and the mechanics of running a syndicate led to countless hours spent navigating investment documents, monetization strategies, banking partnerships, and KYC processes. By 2021, while HoaQ had established a solid foundation, he realized the need for a dedicated team member to streamline operations.

In July 2021, a simple tweet led him to Folakemi Osho, who joined the team as an assistant in September of that year. Her impact was immediate and transformative.

“She streamlined our processes, ensured smooth operations, hosted countless events, and provided daily support to our community and founders. She has been leading the charge for over a year, and this promotion is long overdue,” Kinvi said.

As General Manager, Osho will continue to oversee the syndicate’s operations, ensuring that HoaQ remains a key player in Africa’s investment ecosystem. She will also represent the company at the Africa Tech Summit in Nairobi, where she looks forward to engaging with the broader tech and investment community.

Kinvi extended his appreciation to Nubi Kay’, who will continue to support Osho and the team, as well as to the HoaQ community, Yewande Odumosu, and Zaenab Adegoke for facilitating a smooth leadership transition.

With this shift, HoaQ Club is poised for continued growth, reinforcing its commitment to supporting founders, investors, and the broader startup ecosystem across Africa.

SLB Nigeria and ONE Campaign Power Healthcare with Solar Energy Initiative

SLB Nigeria and ONE Campaign Power Healthcare with Solar Energy Initiative

 

SLB Nigeria, in collaboration with The ONE Campaign, has launched a groundbreaking initiative to provide renewable energy to the Coker Aguda Primary Healthcare Centre in Surulere, Lagos. This transformative project ensures uninterrupted, life-saving care for underserved communities by equipping the clinic with reliable solar power.

The initiative is part of SLB’s Sustainability Impact Awards (SIA) program, which has been replicated in other Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in Lagos and extended to states such as Delta, Imo, and Rivers. The SIA program, launched in 2022, provides funding for local teams worldwide to develop, select, and execute high-impact sustainability projects that are scalable and replicable.

Nosa Omorodion, Country Director of SLB Nigeria, highlighted the company’s commitment to creating shared value through innovative and sustainable solutions.

“This is how we create shared value at SLB—combining technological excellence with a deep sense of responsibility to the communities we serve. Guided by local insight, we assess Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) gaps in the countries where we live and work, ensuring that our initiatives address real challenges and deliver lasting, transformative impact. Because the most powerful solutions don’t just meet today’s needs, they unlock tomorrow’s potential.”No alt text provided for this image

Omorodion expressed gratitude to key partners who played a vital role in the success of the project, including Chinwe Abuwa, Policy Advisor at ONE Campaign; Dr. Toni A., Senior Special Assistant to the Lagos State Governor on Health; Alhaji Rasaki Ibrahim Olamilekan (RIO), Executive Chairman of Coker-Aguda LCDA; Ladi Abudu, Deputy Director of Health Planning Research and Statistics at the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board; Dr. Duyile, Medical Officer of Health; and Prof. Akin Abayomi, Lagos State Commissioner for Health.

He also commended the Lagos State Ministry of Health for its continued efforts in improving healthcare access, particularly through initiatives such as the digitization of healthcare services, which aims to enhance affordable and quality healthcare delivery.

This initiative represents a significant step towards sustainable community empowerment, reinforcing SLB’s commitment to leveraging technology for social impact and ensuring that healthcare facilities across Nigeria have the resources needed to provide reliable medical services.

Heirs Holdings Group Announces Leadership Appointments to Drive Growth and Innovation

Heirs Holdings Group Announces Leadership Appointments to Drive Growth and Innovation

 

In a strategic move to strengthen its leadership and drive its long-term vision, Heirs Holdings Group has announced key executive appointments across its subsidiaries. The Chairman of Heirs Holdings, Tony O. Elumelu, emphasized the Group’s commitment to investing in human capital as a cornerstone of its success.

Heirs Holdings has appointed Azubike Emodi as the new Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Afriland Properties Plc. Emodi succeeds Uzoamaka Oshogwe, who has led the company since its inception in 2013 and was recently appointed CEO of Transcorp Hotels Plc.

With over 20 years of experience spanning financial services, real estate development, and strategic planning, Emodi is expected to drive Afriland’s vision, leveraging its vast land bank to execute significant residential and commercial real estate projects. His extensive leadership experience includes roles at Royal Bank of Canada, VFD Group, VBank, Anchoria Asset Management, and most recently, Herel Global, where he led major financial and real estate initiatives.

Additionally, Chidi Okpala has been appointed Executive Director – Payments, Group Integration & Strategy (PGIS) at Heirs Holdings Group. In his new role, Okpala will lead the Group’s technology and healthcare business sectors and collaborate with the leadership team to drive the company’s expansion strategy.

Okpala brings over two decades of leadership experience across financial services, FinTech, telecommunications, and strategy consulting. He has worked with industry giants such as Accenture, United Bank for Africa, and Bharti Airtel International. Before joining Heirs Holdings, he was the CEO of Asante Financial Services Group, where he played a key role in advancing digital financial inclusion across Africa.

Expressing confidence in the new appointees, Elumelu stated:
“I am confident in the value these leaders will bring to our Group. Please join me in welcoming them to their new roles.”

These appointments mark a new phase in Heirs Holdings’ continued drive for excellence, innovation, and strategic expansion in key sectors of the African economy.

Industry Stakeholders Call for Pragmatic Approach to Telecom Tariff Adjustment

Industry Stakeholders Call for Pragmatic Approach to Telecom Tariff Adjustment

 Telecom industry stakeholders have urged a balanced approach to the recently approved tariff adjustment by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), emphasizing the need to sustain operations while minimizing the financial burden on consumers.

Speaking on behalf of industry players, the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) and other key stakeholders acknowledged the economic realities necessitating the tariff review. They highlighted the mounting operational costs driven by inflation, foreign exchange instability, and rising energy prices, which have put immense pressure on service providers.

“The telecom sector is facing unprecedented financial strain, with the cost of network maintenance, equipment procurement, and power generation increasing exponentially. Without adjustments, operators will struggle to maintain service quality and expand network infrastructure,” a senior industry executive stated.

While recognizing consumer concerns, stakeholders assured that the approved 50 percent tariff hike represents a ceiling rather than a blanket increase. Market competition, they noted, would naturally regulate pricing, preventing arbitrary hikes.

However, industry leaders also called for transparency in implementing the NCC’s mandated service quality improvements. They urged the regulator to ensure that telecom companies adhere to infrastructure upgrade requirements to enhance network performance and customer experience.

“The industry remains committed to providing affordable services, but this must be done sustainably. The NCC’s directive on service quality is critical, and we fully support measures that enhance network efficiency,” a telecom operator representative added.

Beyond tariffs, stakeholders reiterated the need for government intervention to address key industry challenges. They appealed to the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency in the energy sector, citing the high cost of electricity and fuel as major factors driving up telecom expenses.

Additionally, they called for foreign exchange stabilization policies to ease the burden of importing telecom equipment, which is primarily sourced from international markets.

Following the NCC’s decision, the National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) announced the cancellation of its planned protest, acknowledging the economic pressures on both consumers and service providers.

Despite the adjustment, stakeholders reassured the public that telecom providers would remain committed to keeping tariffs as low as possible, ensuring that Nigeria maintains its position as one of the most affordable telecom markets globally.

NDPC Sensitizes Banex Plaza Traders on Data Protection During National Privacy Week 2025

NDPC Sensitizes Banex Plaza Traders on Data Protection During National Privacy Week 2025

NDPC Sensitizes Banex Plaza Traders on Data Protection During National Privacy Week 2025

Abuja, Nigeria – In a bid to enhance data protection awareness and compliance across Nigeria, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has taken its sensitization campaign to Banex Plaza, Abuja, as part of the activities marking National Privacy Week 2025. Banex Plaza, known as one of Abuja’s busiest commercial centers for computers, mobile phones, and electronic gadgets, was chosen due to the high volume of digital transactions and data exchanges that occur daily.

The sensitization exercise was aimed at educating traders, business owners, and tenants on the importance of data privacy, their rights as data subjects, and their responsibilities as data controllers and processors. NDPC officials engaged shop owners in interactive discussions on how to handle customer information securely, prevent data breaches, and comply with Nigeria’s data protection regulations.

Raising Awareness on Data Security in Commercial Spaces

During the session, NDPC representatives emphasized the risks associated with poor data management practices, particularly in businesses that deal with large volumes of personal information, such as contact details, identity documents, and financial data. Traders were informed about the legal consequences of mishandling personal data, including penalties for non-compliance with Nigeria’s Data Protection Act.

The NDPC team also demonstrated best practices for data security, such as:
✅ Limiting access to sensitive customer information
✅ Using secure payment and transaction methods
✅ Safeguarding customers’ data from unauthorized third parties
✅ Adopting data protection policies within their businesses

According to an NDPC spokesperson, the outreach aligns with the commission’s commitment to promoting a culture of privacy, security, and compliance across all sectors of the economy. “Many business owners, especially in commercial hubs like Banex Plaza, handle sensitive customer data every day. It is crucial that they understand the importance of protecting this data to prevent fraud, identity theft, and unauthorized data usage,” the spokesperson noted.

Strengthening Nigeria’s Data Protection Culture

The National Privacy Week serves as a platform for NDPC to intensify its advocacy on data protection and privacy rights, particularly in a rapidly digitizing economy where data security has become a global concern. This initiative reflects the commission’s broader mission to enhance public awareness, enforce compliance, and build a secure digital environment for businesses and individuals in Nigeria.

Traders at Banex Plaza welcomed the sensitization exercise, acknowledging that many were previously unaware of their obligations under the data protection law. Some business owners expressed willingness to implement stronger security measures in handling customer data to build trust and avoid legal infractions.

The NDPC has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding its outreach efforts, targeting more businesses and organizations across Nigeria to ensure that data privacy becomes a fundamental aspect of commercial and digital transactions.

Dr. Abiodun Adereni Expands Healthcare Innovation with the Launch of Dobic Health

Dr. Abiodun Adereni Expands Healthcare Innovation with the Launch of Dobic Health

In a bold move to strengthen healthcare accessibility and innovation across Africa, Dr. Abiodun Adereni, Founder and CEO of HelpMum Africa, has officially launched his second healthcare company, Dobic Health. The new venture is set to redefine healthcare delivery by integrating cutting-edge diagnostic and medical services with a patient-centered approach.

Dobic Health aims to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions, covering women’s health, men’s health, and sexual health, alongside a full spectrum of diagnostic services. The facility will offer advanced laboratory and pathology tests, neurology, radiology (ultrasound scans, X-ray imaging), cardiology, and general health check-ups, among others.No alternative text description for this image

Bridging the Gap Between Innovation and Infrastructure

Speaking at the launch, Dr. Adereni emphasized the urgent need to bridge the gap between technological innovation and healthcare infrastructure in Africa. According to him, the next phase of healthcare delivery must focus on leveraging digital transformation to strengthen medical services and enhance accessibility for all.

“The future of healthcare in Africa depends on our ability to integrate cutting-edge technology with solid infrastructure,” Dr. Adereni stated. “With Dobic Health, we are taking a significant step toward achieving this by offering comprehensive medical services that prioritize efficiency, accuracy, and affordability.”

As an Ashoka Fellow and Youth Advisor at the World Bank, Dr. Adereni has been at the forefront of healthcare innovation, particularly through his first venture, HelpMum Africa, which focuses on improving maternal and child healthcare using digital solutions. The launch of Dobic Health marks another milestone in his mission to create a more resilient and technology-driven healthcare ecosystem.No alternative text description for this image

A Vision for a Stronger Healthcare System in Africa

With Dobic Health and HelpMum Africa, Dr. Adereni envisions a future where quality healthcare is not a privilege but a basic right accessible to all Africans. His goal is to transform healthcare delivery and accessibility in meaningful ways by combining digital health innovations with strengthened physical infrastructure.

“My broader vision is to contribute my fair share to building a resilient healthcare system in Africa, one that not only embraces digital transformation but also strengthens critical healthcare infrastructure to drive real impact,” he stated.

As the healthcare landscape in Africa evolves, Dobic Health is poised to play a crucial role in ensuring that individuals and families have seamless access to world-class medical services, reinforcing Dr. Adereni’s commitment to saving lives and improving healthcare outcomes across the continent.

Oando Publishes N4.1 Trillion Revenue and N65.5 Billion Profit-After-Tax in Full Year (FY) 2024 Results

Oando Publishes N4.1 Trillion Revenue and N65.5 Billion Profit-After-Tax in Full Year (FY) 2024 Results

Oando PLC (www.OandoPLC.com), Africa’s leading integrated energy company listed on both the Nigerian Exchange Grpup (NGX) and Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), announced a strong financial performance for the Full Year (FY) 2024 with a 45% growth in revenue to N4.1 Trillion compared to N2.9 Trillion in FY 2023 results.

 

The company’s 2024 performance showcases a consistent upward trajectory following its announcement of N65.5 billion in profit after tax.

 

Speaking on the results, Group Chief Executive, Oando PLC, Wale Tinubu CON, commented, “2024 was a year of transformation for Oando, the key highlight being our successful acquisition and subsequent integration of NAOC Ltd, which significantly enhanced our production capacity, attaining peak operated production of 103,206boepd and net entitlements of 45,000 boepd.

 

Despite a challenging operating environment, we achieved a 45% increase in revenue to ₦4.1 trillion, reflecting the strength of our business model, and a 9% rise in profit after tax to ₦65.5 billion, notwithstanding the costs associated with the onboarding of NAOC.”

 

Oando’s production for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, averaged 23,911 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boe/d), an increase from the 23,258 boe/d achieved in 2023. This growth was primarily driven by the acquisition of an additional 20% stake in the NAOC JV in Q4, partially offset by production disruptions due to shut-in wells resulting from sabotage activities.

 

2024 was a year of transformation for Oando, the key highlight being our successful acquisition and subsequent integration of NAOC Ltd

Additionally, the Group incurred $18.1 million on capital expenditures related to the development of oil and gas assets and exploration and evaluation activities, compared to $52.3 million in the twelve months to December 31, 2023.

 

Looking ahead to 2025, Tinubu stated, “In 2025, our priority shall be to drive cost optimization, operational efficiency, streamline processes, enhance procurement, and leverage technology to improve productivity across our operations. In parallel, we will intensify efforts to boost production through the dual approach of rig-less and workover initiatives while executing an aggressive drilling program across three rig lines.

 

Simultaneously, in collaboration with other stakeholders, we are proactively tackling above-ground security challenges by implementing a revamped security framework that integrates advanced surveillance technology and intelligence-driven initiatives to curb the perennial, unnecessary, and unjustifiable theft of oil to ensure the long-term integrity of our vast network.

 

As we look ahead to an exciting and successful 2025, we recognize that achieving our goals requires the unwavering support of our host communities and partners. Through extensive engagement, we will foster a collaborative ecosystem that not only secures our operations but also drives shared prosperity and sustainable development for all.”

 

As the company prepares for its 2025 targets, it is bolstered by optimistic oil demand predictions. The U.S. Energy Information Administration’s (EIA) global oil demand predictions forecast global demand to grow by 1.3 million barrels per day (bpd) in 2025, a significant increase from the estimated growth of 0.9 million b/d in 2024. This projected growth surpasses the pre-pandemic 10-year average (2010-2019) of 1.5 million bpd, indicating a positive trajectory for the global oil market.

 

With this announcement, Oando enters 2025 on a strong foundation. The announcement brings the company up to date on its financial reporting, successfully meeting all regulatory requirements. Notwithstanding the operational realities, Oando is positioned to build on the momentum of a successful 2024 committed to its strategic vision of becoming Africa’s first international oil company (IOC) by leveraging its strong operational capabilities and strategic partnerships to deliver value to its stakeholders.

 In a recent address to His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, CFR, His Royal Majesty, Oba OmoTooyosi Adebayo M. Akinleye, has shed light on the transformation of the judicial system in Yorubaland, emphasizing the shift from the traditional Osugbo/Ogboni judicial system to a more inclusive and secular legal framework. His remarks highlight the need to preserve Nigeria’s constitutional secularism to ensure justice, equity, and societal harmony in a multi-religious and multi-ethnic country.

The Traditional Osugbo/Ogboni System and Its Evolution

For centuries, the Osugbo/Ogboni judicial system played a central role in governance and justice within Yoruba society. Functioning as a high court, this institution was deeply embedded in the traditional governance structure, influencing both legal and social matters. The system not only ensured law and order but also maintained a strong moral code that reflected the values of the time.

However, as Nigeria moved towards modern statehood and embraced a national legal framework based on constitutional law, Yorubaland witnessed a gradual transition away from these indigenous legal systems. The shift was driven by the need for a more universal legal structure that respects individual freedoms, aligns with democratic principles, and provides a legal system that applies to all citizens, regardless of their cultural or religious backgrounds.

According to Oba Akinleye, this transition reflects a broader societal evolution towards laws that uphold fundamental human rights, such as freedom of thought, conscience, and religion. The modern legal system ensures that justice is served in a manner that is impartial and not restricted by the doctrines of any particular cultural or religious institution.

The Secular State and the Question of Sharia Law in the Southwest

Oba Akinleye also addressed concerns about the potential implementation of Sharia Law in the Southwest, warning that such a move could undermine the constitutional secularism of Nigeria. The country’s legal framework is built on the principle that no religion should be adopted as a state religion, guaranteeing every individual the right to freedom of religion without coercion or undue influence from the state.

The monarch stressed that while Sharia Law is recognized in some parts of Nigeria, particularly in the North where Islamic law has historical roots, imposing it in the Southwest would be problematic. The region is home to a diverse population that includes Christians, Muslims, and adherents of traditional African religions. Introducing a legal system based on one religion could create tension, legal ambiguity, and social discord.

“The introduction of Sharia in the Southwest could potentially undermine our secular framework, leading to tensions and conflicts not only between religious groups but also within the broader societal fabric,” Oba Akinleye cautioned. He noted that while religious communities have the right to practice their faith, governance and legal matters should remain within the purview of a neutral and universally applicable legal system.

The Benefits of a Secular Judicial System

The Yoruba monarch highlighted the advantages of maintaining a secular legal system, noting that it fosters peace, unity, and economic development. A judiciary that is independent of religious influence ensures that all citizens, regardless of their beliefs, are treated equally under the law.

“The secular approach has been beneficial in promoting peace, unity, and development by providing a common legal ground where all citizens, regardless of their faith or belief, can coexist harmoniously,” he said.

He emphasized that secular governance does not mean the suppression of religious freedom; rather, it ensures that the rights of every religious group are protected without state interference. This approach, he argued, is essential for sustaining a society where justice is fair, impartial, and accessible to all.

A Call for Constitutional Adherence and Social Harmony

Oba Akinleye concluded his message by urging all stakeholders—traditional leaders, religious institutions, and political authorities—to uphold the secular principles enshrined in Nigeria’s constitution. He called for continuous dialogue and collaboration to strengthen the country’s legal and governance structures while respecting cultural heritage and diversity.

His remarks add to the ongoing national discourse on the intersection of law, religion, and governance, emphasizing the need for a legal system that is inclusive, just, and aligned with Nigeria’s democratic ideals. As the country navigates complex legal and social challenges, his advocacy for secularism serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a judicial framework that protects the rights of all citizens in a pluralistic society.