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175 beneficiaries of presidential amnesty showed remorse, good conduct —Tinubu

–See full list

Funso OLOJO 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has justified the jumbo clemency he granted 175 convicts and former convicts on Thursday, October 9th, 2025.
It could be recalled that the President has come under scathing criticism as some section of Nigerians described the presidential gesture as abuse of such power.
They condemned the extension of such gesture to drug offenders which they claimed has rubbished the work of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency(NDLEA).
However, in his defence of his action, President Tinubu declared that the beneficiaries have shown change of character, remorseful and embraced a response lifestyle while in prison.
According to the statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the president’ s gesture which received the endorsement of the Council of State, was also granted to some beneficiaries due to old age.
“Illegal miners, white-collar convicts, remorseful drug offenders, foreigners, Major General Mamman Vatsa,  Major Akubo, Professor Magaji Garba,  capital offenders such as  Maryam Sanda,  Ken Saro Wiwa, and the other Ogoni Eight were among the 175 convicts and former convicts who received President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s mercy on Thursday.
“President Tinubu granted clemency to most of them based on the reports that the convicts had shown remorse and good conduct.
“He forgave some due to old age, the acquisition of new vocational skills, or enrolment in the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN). President Tinubu also corrected the historic injustice committed by British colonialists against Sir Herbert Macaulay, one of Nigeria’s foremost nationalists.
“In all, the Presidential Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy, chaired by the Attorney-General and Justice Minister, Prince Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, recommended pardon for two inmates, 15 former convicts, 11 of whom have died. The committee recommended clemency for 82 inmates and commutation of sentences for 65 inmates.
“Seven inmates on death row also benefited from the Presidential reprieve. The committee recommended that the President should commute their death sentences to life imprisonment.
“Prince Fagbemi presented the committee’s report at the Council of State meeting, chaired by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
FULL LIST OF BENEFICIARIES OF PRESIDENT TINUBU’S MERCY
PARDONED
1. Nweke Francis Chibueze, aged 44, serving a life sentence at Kirikiri for cocaine.
2. Dr Nwogu Peters, aged 67; Serving a 17-year jail term for fraud. Sentenced in 2013.
3. Mrs Anastasia Daniel Nwaoba, aged 63. Already served a sentence for fraud
4. Barr. Hussaini Alhaji Umar, aged 58. Sentenced in 2023 to pay a fine of N150M in the ICPC case
5. Ayinla Saadu Alanamu, age 63, was sentenced to seven years for bribery in 2019 and has served the sentence.
6. Hon. Farouk M. Lawan, aged 62. Sentenced to five years in 2021 for Corrupt Practices and had served the sentence.
POSTHUMOUS PARDON
7. Sir Herbert Macaulay was banned from public office for misappropriation of funds and sentenced in 1913 by the British colonialists.
8. Major-General Mamman Jiya Vatsa, age 46, Sentenced in 1986 for treason: related to an alleged coup plot
POSTHUMOUS PARDON: THE OGONI NINE
9. Ken Saro Wiwa. Sentenced for murder
10. Saturday Dobee. Sentenced for murder
11. Nordu Eawa. Sentenced for murder
12. Daniel Gbooko. Sentenced for murder
13. Paul Levera. Sentenced for murder
14. Felix Nuate. Sentenced for murder
15. Baribor Bera. Sentenced for murder
16. Barinem Kiobel. Sentenced for murder
17. John Kpuine. Sentenced for murder
VICTIMS OF OGONI NINE HONOURED:
Chief Albert Badey
Chief Edward Kobaru
Chief Samuel Orage
Chief Theophilus Orage
PRESIDENTIAL CLEMENCY
Most of the beneficiaries showed either remorse or learned vocational skills in jail
1.   Aluagwu Lawrence, aged 47, sentenced for Indian hemp (selling), 2015
2.   Ben Friday, aged 60, was sentenced to 3 years or N1.3 million fine for marijuana in 2023.
3.   Oroke Micheal Chibueze, aged 21, sentenced to 5 years (cannabis sativa) in 2023
4.   Kelvin Christopher Smith, aged 42, was sentenced to 4 years for importing cocaine in 2023
5.   Azubuike Jeremiah Emeka, aged 31, sentenced in 2021 to 5 years or N3 million fine for importing cocaine.
6.   Akinrinnade Akinwande Adebiyi, aged 47, sentenced in 2023 to 3 years for dealing in Tramadol.
7.   Ahmed Adeyemo, aged 38, sentenced to 15 years for cannabis. Already served nine years, 5 months at Kirikiri
8.   Adeniyi Jimoh, aged 31years, sentenced to 15 years for Drugs in 2015 and served nine years at Kirikiri.
9.   Seun Omirinde, aged 39, sentenced to 15 years for Drugs in 2015. Served nine years at Kirikiri
10.   Adesanya Olufemi Paul, aged 61, sentenced to  14 years for theft. Had served eight years.
11.   Ife Yusuf, aged 37, was sentenced for human trafficking in 2019. Had served six years at Kirikiri.
12.   Daniel Bodunwa, aged 43, was sentenced in 2018  to 10 years for fraudulent intent to forge a land receipt. Had served six years in jail
13.   Fidelis Michael, aged 40, sentenced to 5 years for cannabis sativa
14.   Suru Akande, aged 52, sentenced to 5 years for cannabis sativa
15.   Safiyanu Umar, aged 56, sentenced to 5 years without the option of a fine for possessing 5kg of Cannabis sativa, 2023
16.   Dahiru Abdullahi, aged 46, was sentenced in 2016  to 21 years for possession of 3 pistols and had spent 10 years in jail.
17.   Hamza Abubakar, aged 37, sentenced to 5 years for Indian hemp (selling), 2022
18.   Rabiu Alhassan Dawaki, aged 52, sentenced in 2020 to 7 years for criminal breach of trust.
19.   Mujibu Muhammad, aged 30, sentenced in 2022  to 5 years, no option for a fine for cannabis.
20.   Emmanuel Eze, aged 49, sentenced in 2022 to 5 years for Heroine.
21.   Bala Azika Yahaya, aged 70, sentenced in 2017 to 15 years for cannabis.
22.   Lina Kusum Wilson, aged 34, sentenced to death in 2017  for culpable homicide, had spent eight years in jail.
23.   Buhari Sani, aged 33, sentenced in 2022  to 5 years for possession of 558 grams of cannabis.
24.   Mohammed Musa, aged 27, was sentenced in 2022 to 5 years for possession of 16 grams of cannabis.
25.   Muharazu Abubakar, aged 37, sentenced in 2022 to  5 years for selling Indian hemp. Already spent 3 years in Katsina Prison
26. Ibrahim Yusuf, aged 34; jailed 5 years in 2022 for possession of 5.7 grams of Indian hemp.
27.   Saad Ahmed Madaki, aged 72; sentenced in 2020 for a 419 offence. Had served 4 years in Kaduna prison
28. Ex-Corporal Michael Bawa, aged 72: sentenced to life imprisonment for murder in 2005. Had spent 20 years in Kaduna prison
29. Richard Ayuba, aged 38. Sentenced to 5 years in 2022 for Indian hemp
30. Adam Abubakar, aged 30 and sentenced in 2022 to five years for possession of 2kg of tramadol.
31. Emmanuel Yusuf, aged 34; sentenced in 2022 to 4 years for possession of 2kg of tramadol
32. Edwin Nnazor, aged 60; sentenced in 2018 to 15 years for cannabis. Had spent 6 years, nine months at Zamfara prison
33. Chinedu Stanley, aged 34. Sentenced in 2023 to three years for fake lubricant oil.
34. Joseph Nwanoka, aged 42: sentenced in 2022 to five years for drugs
35.  Johnny Ntheru, Aged 63, sentenced in 1989 to life imprisonment for robbery. Had spent 36 years in Umuahia Prison
36.   John Omotiye, Aged 28, sentenced to six years for Pipeline vandalism
37.   Nsikat Edet Harry, Aged 37, sentenced in 2023 to 5 years for Illegal possession of Indian hemp, Cocaine, & Heroin.
38.   Jonathan Asuquo, Aged 28, sentenced in 2022 to 5 years for possession  of Indian hemp & other drugs
39.   Prince Samuel Peters, aged 54, sentenced in 2020 to 7 years for obtaining money by false pretence. Had spent 4 years, 3 months in Ikot Ekpene Prison
40.   Babangida Saliu, Aged 35, sentenced in 2024  to 3 years for unlawful mining.
41.   Adamu Sanni, aged 39, sentenced in 2024 to 3 years for unlawful mining.
42.   Abdulkarem Salisu, aged 30, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining.
43.   Abdulaziz Lawal, aged 18, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining.
44.   Abdulrahman Babangida, aged 20, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining
45.   Maharazu Alidu, aged 22, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining.
46.   Zaharadeen Baliue, aged 38, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining.
47.   Babangida Usman, aged 30, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining.
48.   Zayyanu Abdullahi, Aged 28, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining, 2024
49.   Bashir Garuba, Aged 20, sentenced in 2024 to 3 years for unlawful mining
50.   Imam Suleman, aged 25, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining, 2024
51.   Abbeh Amisu, Aged 28, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining, 2024
52.   Lawani Lurwanu, Aged 20, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining, 2024
53.   Yusuf Alhassan, aged 33, was sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining in 2024.
54.   Abdulahi Isah, aged 25, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining, 2024
55.   Zayanu Bello, aged 35, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining
56.   Habeeb Suleman, aged 22, sentenced in 2024 to 3 years for unlawful mining.
57.   Jubrin Sahabi, aged 23, was sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining.
58.   Shefiu Umar, aged 28, was sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining.
59.   Seidu Abubakar, age 29, sentenced in 2024 to 3 years for unlawful mining.
60.   Haruna Abubakar, Aged 24, was sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining
61.   Rabiu Seidu, aged 26, sentenced in 2024 to 3 years for unlawful mining.
62.   Macha Kuru, Aged 25, sentenced in 2024 to 3 years for unlawful mining
63.   Zahradeen Aminu, Aged 25 years, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining.
64. Nazipi Musa, aged 25. Sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining in 2024
65. Abdullahi Musa, aged 30 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining.
66. Habibu Safiu, aged 20 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining
67. Husseni Sani, aged 21 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining
68. Musa Lawali, aged 25 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining
69. Suleiman Lawal, aged 23 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining
70. Yusuf Iliyasu, aged 21 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining
71. Sebiyu Aliyu, aged 20 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining
72. Halliru Sani, aged 18 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining
73. Shittu Aliyu, aged 30 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining
74. Sanusi Aminu, aged 27 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining
75. Isiaka Adamu, aged 40 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining
76. Mamman Ibrahim, aged 50 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining
77. Shuaibu Abdullahi, aged 35 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining
78. Sanusi Adamu, aged 28 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining
79. Sadi Musa, aged 20 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining
80. Haruna Isah, aged 35 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining
NB: Senator Ikra Aliyu Bilbis signed an undertaking to be responsible for the rehabilitation and empowerment of all the convicted illegal miners granted presidential clemency.
81. Abiodun Elemero, aged 43. Sentenced to life imprisonment for cocaine hawking in 2014. Had spent 10 years plus in Kirikiri,
82. Maryam Sanda, aged 37, was sentenced to death in 2020 for culpable homicide and had spent six years, eight months at Suleja Medium Security Custodial Centre.  Her family pleaded for her release, arguing that it was in the best interest of her two children. The plea was also anchored on her good conduct in jail, her remorse, and her embracement of a new lifestyle, demonstrating her commitment to being a model prisoner.
LIST OF INMATES RECOMMENDED FOR REDUCED TERM OF IMPRISONMENT
1. Yusuf Owolabi, aged 36. Sentenced to life in 2015  for Manslaughter. Had spent 10 years at Kirikiri.Prison term reduced to 12 years for showing remorse and learning vocational skills.
2. Ifeanyi Eze, aged 33. Sentenced to life in 2021 for Manslaughter and had spent four years at Kirikiri. Prison term reduced to 12 years for showing remorse and learning vocational skills.
3. Malam Ibrahim Sulaiman, aged 59. Sentenced to life in 2022 for Armed robbery & possession of illegal firearms. Sentence cut to 10 years based on good conduct
4. Shettima Maaji Arfo, aged 54. Sentenced in 2021 to seven years for Corrupt Practices. Sentence reduced to four years, because of good conduct and ill-health
5. Ajasper Benzeger, aged 69 and sentenced in 2015 to 20 years for Culpable homicide. Sentence reduced to 12 years, based on old age and ill-health.
6. Ifenna Kennechukwu, aged 42. Sentenced in 2015 to 20 years for drugs (cocaine import) and had spent close to 10 years in Kirikiri. Prison term reduced to 12 years based on remorse and the acquisition of vocational skills.
7. Mgbeike Matthew, aged 45. Sentenced to 20 years in 2013 for the import of 3.10kg. Following remorsefulness and the acquisition of vocational skills at Kirikiri. Sentence reduced to 12 years.
8. Patrick Mensah, aged 40. Sentenced in 2015 to 17 years for drugs. Sentence reduced to 11 years
9. Obi Edwin Chukwu, aged 43 and sentenced in 2017 to 15 years for drugs. Sentence reduced to 10 years.
10. Tunde Balogun, aged 32 and sentenced in 2015 to 15 years for drugs. Sentence reduced to 10 years.
11. Lima Pereira Erick Diego, aged 27 and sentenced in 2017 to 15 years or a fine of N20million for drugs. Sentence reduced to 10 years.
12. Uchegbu Emeka Michael, aged 37. Sentenced in 2017 to 15 years or a fine of N20million  for drugs. Sentence reduced to 10 years
13. Salawu Adebayo Samsudeen, aged 46 and sentenced in 2016 to 15 years for drugs. Sentence reduced to 10 years.
14. Napolo Osariemen, aged 61 and sentenced in 2022 to 15 years for 2 kilos of Indian hemp. The sentence was reduced to seven years.
15. Patricia Echoe Igninovia, aged 61 and sentenced in 2023 to seven years for trafficking in persons. Sentence reduced to five years.
16. Odeyemi Omolaram, aged 65 and sentenced in 2017 to 25 years in prison for drug. The sentence was reduced to 12 years based on the defendant’s remorsefulness and advanced age.
17. Vera Daniel Ifork, aged 29 and sentenced in 2020 to 10 years for trafficking in persons. Sentence reduced to eight years.
18. Gabriel Juliet Chidimma, aged 32 and sentenced in 2022 to six years for drug (cocaine). Sentence reduced to four years.
19. Dias Santos Marcia Christiana, aged 44 and sentenced in 2017 to 15 years for import of cocaine. Sentence reduced to 10 years.
20. Alh. Ibrahim Hameed. Aged 71 and sentenced in 2023 to seven years for illegal property (obtaining property under false pretence). Sentence reduced to five years.
21. Alh. Nasiru Ogara Adinoyi, 65, was sentenced in 2023 to 14 years for obtaining property by false pretence. The sentence was reduced to seven years.
22. Chief Emeka Agbodike, aged 69, was sentenced in 2023 to seven years for obtaining property by false pretence. Sentence reduced to 3 years.
23. Isaac Justina, aged 40. Sentenced in 2022 to 10 years for cannabis sativa and had spent 3 years in the Abeokuta Custodial Centre. Sentence reduced to four years.
24. Aishat Kehinde, aged 38 and sentenced in 2022 to five years for unlawful possession of cannabis. The prison term being served in Abeokuta has been reduced to four years.
25. Helen Solomon, age 68. Sentenced in 2024 to five years for cannabis sativa. Sentence reduced to three years.
26. Okoye Tochukwu, aged 43 and sentenced in 2024 to six years for cannabis sativa. Sentence reduced to 3 years.
27. Ugwueze Paul, aged 38 and sentenced in 2024 to six years for cannabis sativa. Sentence reduced to three years.
28. Mutsapha Ahmed, aged 46 and sentenced in 2022 to seven years without a fine option for criminal breach of trust. The sentence was reduced to five years.
29. Abubakar Mamman, aged 38 and sentenced in 2020 to 10 years in Kebbi Custodial Centre for Possession of firearms. Sentence reduced to seven years.
30. Muhammed Bello Musa, aged 35. Sentenced in 2020 to 10 years in Kebbi Custodial Centre for illegal possession of firearms. Sentence reduced to seven years
31. Nnamdi Anene, aged 67 and sentenced in 2010 to life imprisonment at Katsina Custodial Centre for illegal dealing of arms. Sentence reduced to 20 years.
32. Alh. Abubakar Tanko, aged 61, was sentenced in 2018 to 30 years at the Gusau Custodial Centre for Culpable Homicide. Sentence reduced to 20 years.
33. Chisom Francis Wisdom, aged 30; sentenced in 2018 to 20 years in Umuahia Custodial Centre for kidnapping. Sentence reduced to 12 years.
34. Innocent Brown Idiong, aged 60, sentenced in 2020 to 10 years for possession of 700 grams of Indian Hemp. Has already spent 4 years and 3 months at Ikot Abasi Custodial centre. Jail term reduced to six years.
35. Iniobong Imaeyen Ntukidem, aged 46, was sentenced 2021 to seven years in jail at the Uyo Custodial Centre. Prison term reduced to five years.
36. Ada Audu, aged 72, was sentenced in 2022 to seven years in Kuje Custodial Centre and had spent 2 years and 7 months in prison. Prison term reduced to 4 years because of old age.
37. Bukar Adamu, aged 40 and sentenced to 20 years in 2019 for advance fee fraud. Prison term reduced to nine years.
38. Kelvin Oniarah Ezigbe, 44, was sentenced in October 2023 to 20 years for kidnapping, which took effect in 2013.
 The sentence was reduced to 13 years for showing remorsefulness and attending the National Open University.
39. Frank Azuekor, aged 42.
Sentenced in 2023 for kidnapping and jailed in Kuje Custodial Centre for 20 years, and had spent 12 years behind bars from 2013.
 The sentence was reduced to 13 years, based on good conduct and attendance at the National Open University.
40. Chukwukelu Sunday Calisthus, aged 47 and sentenced in 2014 to life at Kuje Custodial Centre for drugs. He had spent 11 years at Kuje. Sentence reduced to 13 years.
41. Professor Magaji Garba, aged 67. Sentenced in 2021 to seven years for obtaining money by false pretence and had spent 3 years at Kuje Custodial Centre.
The prison term was reduced to four years due to good conduct and advanced age.
42. Markus Yusuf, aged 41. Sentenced in 2023 to 13 years for culpable homicide. Sentence reduced to 5 years based on ill-health.
43. Samson Ajayi, aged 31 and sentenced in 2022 to 15 years for drugs. He had spent five years at Suleja Custodial Centre. The sentence was reduced to seven years.
44. Iyabo Binyoyo, aged 49. Sentenced in 2017 to 10 years for drugs and sentenced to nine years at Suleja Custodial Centre, due to good conduct.
45. Oladele Felix, 49, was sentenced in 2022 to five years without a fine option for conspiracy and exploitation.
Based on good conduct and remorsefulness, the sentence was reduced to four years. Felix is spending the term at Suleja.
46. Rakiya Beida, aged 33 and sentenced in 2021to seven years, without a fine option, for theft and cheating.
The sentence, being served at Suleja, was reduced to three years based on good conduct
47. Nriagu Augustine Ifeanyi, aged 44 and sentenced in 2018 to 10 years in Ikoyi Custodial Centre, for exporting cocaine. The sentence was reduced to eight years.
48. Chukwudi Destiny, aged 36 and sentenced in 2022 to six years in Ikoyi Custodial Centre for heroin import. The sentence was cut to four years.
49. Felix Rotimi Esemokhai, aged 47 and sentenced in 2022 to five years for heroin. The sentence was reduced to four years.
50. Major S.A. Akubo, aged 62, was sentenced in 2009 to life at Katsina Custodial Centre for illegally removing 7,000 assorted weapons.
 Following good conduct and remorsefulness, the sentence was commuted to 20 years.
51. John Ibiam, aged 39, was sentenced in 2016 to 15 years for manslaughter and served 9 years and one month in the Afikpo Custodial Centre.
 The sentence was reduced to 10 years after the individual showed remorse and acquired vocational skills.
52. Omoka Aja, aged 40 and sentenced in 2016 to 15 years for manslaughter, served 9 years and 1 month in Afikpo Custodial Centre. The sentence was commuted to 10 years.
53. Chief Jonathan Alatoru, aged 66, was sentenced in 2021 to seven years for conspiracy to cheat. The sentence served in Port Harcourt Custodial Centre has been reduced to five years.
54. Umanah Ekaette Umanah, aged 70 and sentenced in 2022 to 10 years in Port Harcourt Custodial Centre for forgery. Sentence reduced to five years due to old age and remorsefulness.
55. Utom Obong Thomson Udoaka, 60, was sentenced in 2020 to seven years in Ikot Ekpene Custodial Centre for obtaining money by false pretence. He had served four years and two months at Ikot Ekpene. Due to his old age and good conduct, the Initial Sentence has been reduced to five years.
56. Jude Saka Ebaragha, aged 44. Sentenced in 2020 to 12 years at Ikoyi Prison and a fine of N1million for conspiracy to hijack a fishing vessel. The sentence was commuted to six years, and the N1m fine was waived.
57.Frank Insort Abaka, 46, was sentenced in 2020 to 12 years and a N1M fine at Ikoyi Custodial Centre for conspiracy to hijack a Fishing vessel. The sentence was reduced to six years, and the fine was waived.
58.       Shina Alolo,   42, was sentenced in 2020 to 12 years and a N1M fine at Ikoyi Custodial Centre for conspiracy to hijack a fishing vessel. Like others, the N1m fine was waived, and the sentence was reduced to 6 years.
59.        Joshua Iwiki, aged 50:  Sentenced in 2020 to 12 years at Ikoyi Prison and a fine of N1M  for conspiracy to hijack a fishing vessel. A N1m fine was waived, and the sentence was commuted to six years in prison.
60.        David Akinseye, aged 44:  Sentenced in 2020 to 12 years & N1M fine for conspiracy to hijack a fishing vessel. His sentence was commuted to 6 years, and the fine was waived.
61.    Ahmed Toyin, aged 46: Sentenced in 2020 to 12 years & N1M fine for conspiracy to hijack a fishing vessel. Sentence also commuted and fine waived.
62.   Shobajo Saheed, age 57: Sentenced in 2020 to 12 years and a fine of N1M for conspiracy to hijack a fishing vessel. He got a similar reprieve like the others.
63.  Adamole Philip, aged 52 years: Sentenced to 12 years & a N1M fine for conspiracy to hijack a fishing vessel, 2020. Philip also got his term reduced to seven years and the fine waived.
64. Mathew Masi, aged 39: Also sentenced to 12 years and a fine of N1million for conspiracy to hijack a fishing vessel. The sentence was reduced to six years, and the fine was waived.
65. Bright Agbedeyi, 46, was also sentenced in 2020 for conspiracy to hijack a fishing vessel. Like the others in his category, he got a reprieve from President Tinubu.
List of Inmates on Death Row Reduced to Life Imprisonment
1. Emmanuel Baba, aged 38: sentenced to death in 2017 for culpable homicide. On death row in Kuje Custodial Centre for the past 8 years. The sentence was commuted to life imprisonment based on good conduct and remorsefulness.
2. Emmanuel Gladstone, aged 45, was sentenced in 2020 to death for murder and had spent five years at Katsina Custodial Centre. Death sentence commuted to life imprisonment due to good conduct and remorse.
3. Moses Ayodele Olurunfemi, aged 51:  sentenced to death in 2012 for culpable homicide and had spent 13 years on death row in Katsina. President Tinubu commuted the death sentence to life imprisonment, citing the individual’s good conduct and remorse.
4.       Abubakar Usman, aged 59: Sentenced to Death in 2014 and had spent 14 years on death row in Katsina. His sentence was commuted to life because of his remorse and good conduct.
5. Khalifa Umar, aged 37: Sentenced to death in 2014 and had spent 11 years on death row in Kano Custodial Centre. His sentence has been commuted to life imprisonment.
6. Benjamin Ekeze, age 40. Sentenced to death in 2017 for armed robbery and conspiracy, and had spent 12 years on death row at Kirikiri, Lagos. The sentence was also commuted to life.
7. Mohammed Umar, 43: Sentenced to death in 2018 for culpable homicide and had spent seven years on death row in Onitsha Custodial Centre.
“He got the Presidential reprieve, commuting the death sentence to life imprisonment.
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Headlines

NSW will not subsume B’Odogwu Customs trade platform — Fakolade

Gloria Odion 
Tola Fakolade, the Director of Nigeria National Single Window Project has stated that the celebrated National Single Window project which first phase is due for official roll out in March,27th, 2026 is not a substitute for the Customs trade platform commonly called B’Odogwu, neither will the presidential initiative subsume the Customs platform.
Fakolade make this clarification against the rising fears that the multi- million dollar indigenous platform created by the Customs to enhance its operations and meant to replace the previous foreign – created portal, will be jettisoned at the berth of NSW.
However, he further clarified that the NSW will operate alongside the B’Odogwu Customs Management System, describing the two platforms as complementary.
“The B’Odogwu system handles core Customs processes such as valuation and risk management, while the National Single Window serves as the single-entry portal for traders to submit documents and applications for approvals,” he said.
Fakolade also declared that NSW will not replace any government agency involved in trade facilitation but will instead integrate their processes to eliminate duplication and improve efficiency.
He explained that the system is designed to ensure that once a release is issued by the Nigeria Customs Service, it would already reflect the risk assessment and compliance requirements of other port-related regulatory agencies.
According to him, key trade agencies were involved from the early stages of the project, with each nominating technical representatives who contributed to the development of the platform.
He noted that the system has already identified and addressed several duplicated processes that previously slowed cargo clearance and added no value to port operations.
Fakolade also disclosed that extensive training has been ongoing for over a month for end-users including importers, exporters, freight forwarders and officials of the Nigerian Ports Authority.
 He added that training sessions are being conducted physically at designated centres that accommodate between 30 and 50 participants, while additional learning resources and explanatory videos have been made available online.
Fakolade added that when the platform goes live on March 27, 2026, initial services will include applications for import licences, certificates and permits for agencies such as Standards Organisation of Nigeria, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service and National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency, as well as manifest submissions by shipping lines and airlines.
Meanwhile, Princess Chi Ezeh, Vice President (Seaports) of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), commended the committee driving the NSW Nigeria for recognising freight forwarders as critical stakeholders in the reform initiative aimed at improving trade facilitation in the country.
Ezeh noted that the decision to engage freight forwarders during the awareness and consultation stages of the project demonstrates that the implementation team understands the strategic role operators play in Nigeria’s port and logistics ecosystem.
She added that during the engagement sessions, freight forwarders were able to highlight some operational challenges they face at the ports, which the project team assured would be addressed.
She expressed optimism ahead of the planned launch of the National Single Window, urging the implementation team to ensure that the system is properly structured to enhance trade facilitation rather than create additional delays in cargo clearance processes.
Also speaking, the Chairman of APFFLON Tincan Chapter, Alhaji Akeem Ayobiojo, assured that freight forwarders would play their part in ensuring the success of the initiative by submitting accurate documentation and complying with the required procedures.
He stressed that transparency and professionalism from operators are essential to achieving the project’s goal of reducing cost, saving time and improving efficiency in Nigeria’s port operations.
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Headlines

Port modernisation, NSW:  the dual trade facilitation tools deployed by NPA to enhance efficiency for economic growth 

Funso OLOJO, Editor 
Nigeria’s maritime sector, the gateway through which over 80 per cent of the nation’s international trade flows, is undergoing a sweeping transformation, which is being midwifed by the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho.
Anchored on port modernisation, digital trade facilitation and institutional reform, the new maritime policy direction is designed to reposition Nigeria’s seaports as competitive hubs within the global shipping ecosystem.
Last week, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) released its 2025 report showing that the nation’s maritime sector recorded a historic surge in activity, driven by increased cargo throughput, rising container traffic, and a growing export footprint — a development that underscores the federal government’s commitment to economic diversification.
The 2025 Operational Performance Report released by the NPA revealed that total cargo throughput surged by 24.8 per cent rising from approximately 103.6 million metric tons in 2024 to over 129.3 million metric tons in 2025.
The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, described the growth as one of the most significant annual increases in Nigeria’s maritime history, noting that the milestone strengthens the country’s position as a more competitive and strategic player in regional and global trade.
The outstanding performance did not just happen overnight, it is a result of the transformative reforms of the federal government.
 For decades, the nation’s ports struggled with a lot of constraints.
However, President Bola Tinubu is reversing the trend through an ambitious reform programme driven by the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy under Adegboyega Oyetola and implemented largely by the Nigerian Ports Authority under the leadership of its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Abubakar Dantsoho.
At the centre of the reform strategy are two interconnected initiatives: the comprehensive modernisation of Nigeria’s port infrastructure and the deployment of the National Single Window (NSW), a digital platform designed to streamline trade documentation and eliminate bureaucratic delays.
Ahead of the flag off of NSW, the NPA put the structures in place and is fully ready. The NPA being a critical stakeholder in the NSW initiative has fully aligned its operational processes with the NSW platform.
In furtherance of this, NPA has been part of the NSW Committee, which has been working with the NSW Project Team, KPMG, and Crimson-Logic.
 These engagements have focused on ensuring seamless integration of the Authority’s Revenue Invoice Management System (RIMS 2.0) with the NSW architecture.
Several strategic, operational and technical decisions have been taken to align current processes with the national framework.
In line with Phase 1 of the NSW go-live, NPA has participated in a series of technical and strategic engagements with the NSW Project Team and implementation partners, complete initial User Acceptance Testing (UAT), inauguration of Transition Committee of the NSW and the development and delivery of all requested system endpoints (integration codes) to enable process alignment between NPA and NSW platforms.
Together, these initiatives represent one of the most far-reaching attempts to unlock the economic potential of Nigeria’s maritime sector and position it as a critical engine of national growth.
Nigeria’s ports have long been central to the country’s economic architecture. Yet for many years, they have been constrained by infrastructural decay and operational inefficiencies.
Experts estimate that Nigeria loses more than N1 trillion annually due to the lack of port automation and modern infrastructure, as congestion, delays and administrative duplication increase logistics costs for businesses and discourage shipping lines.
In addition to these financial losses, inefficient port operations have undermined Nigeria’s regional competitiveness.
West African ports in countries such as Ghana, Togo and Benin Republic, equipped with modern facilities and digital trade systems, have captured significant volumes of cargo originally destined for Nigeria.
The result has been a paradox: Africa’s largest economy operating with ports that have struggled to match the capacity and efficiency of smaller neighbouring economies.
Addressing this gap has therefore become central to the maritime reform agenda of the Tinubu administration.
Ports Reconstruction and Modernisation
A cornerstone of the reform programme is the large-scale reconstruction and modernisation of Nigeria’s major seaports.
The federal government has initiated an ambitious infrastructure renewal plan targeting key facilities including Apapa, Tin Can Island, Port Harcourt, Warri and Calabar ports.
The objective is to upgrade quay walls, deepen channels, modernise cargo-handling equipment and expand terminal capacity to accommodate larger vessels and increased trade volumes.
The strategy reflects a recognition that efficient ports are indispensable to economic growth.
 Modern ports reduce vessel turnaround time, lower freight costs and enhance supply chain efficiency, factors that directly influence a country’s competitiveness in international trade.
Early indicators suggest that these reforms are already beginning to produce measurable results.
 Nigeria’s cargo throughput recorded a significant surge in recent years, rising by 45.1 per cent to 103.3 million tonnes, while ship calls increased to more than 4,000 vessels across Nigerian ports. Container traffic also climbed to 1.74 million TEUs, reflecting growing trade activity and increased export shipments.
 These improvements highlight the economic potential that could be unlocked when infrastructure upgrades are combined with operational reforms.
One of the most immediate advantages of port modernisation is the improvement in operational efficiency.
 Many of Nigeria’s major ports were constructed several decades ago and have struggled to cope with the demands of modern shipping and cargo handling.
Ageing quay walls, shallow drafts, obsolete equipment and limited cargo-handling capacity have often resulted in congestion and long vessel waiting times.
Modernisation programmes that involve infrastructure upgrades, channel deepening and the deployment of modern cargo-handling equipment will significantly reduce vessel turnaround time and cargo dwell time.
Faster port operations mean ships spend less time waiting to berth, while cargo is cleared more quickly, improving the overall efficiency of the logistics chain.
Inefficient ports often translate to higher logistics costs for importers, exporters and shipping companies.
Delays in cargo clearance lead to additional charges such as demurrage, storage and handling fees, which are ultimately passed on to consumers in the form of higher prices.
By improving infrastructure and operational processes, port modernisation will lower these costs and make Nigerian ports more attractive to shipping lines and international investors.
This could also reverse the long-standing trend of Nigerian cargo being diverted to neighbouring ports in countries such as Benin Republic, Togo and Ghana.
Digital Transformation Via NSW
Infrastructure alone, however, cannot deliver a competitive port system without complementary digital reforms.
 This is where the National Single Window (NSW) initiative becomes critical.
Last week, the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, announced that Nigeria will launch the National Single Trade Window platform on March 27.
He described the initiative as a monumental reform aimed at transforming the country’s trade ecosystem by simplifying procedures, improving efficiency and enhancing Nigeria’s competitiveness in global trade.
According to him, the initiative, which was first introduced by President Bola Tinubu nearly two years ago, represents a far-reaching fiscal reform designed to modernise Nigeria’s trade processes.
“We are about to launch yet another reform, fiscal reform by this administration, which in its nature will be very transformational,” he said.
The NSW is designed as an integrated digital platform that enables traders to submit all import, export and transit documentation through a single electronic interface rather than interacting with multiple government agencies.
The NSW seeks to eliminate these inefficiencies by creating a unified digital ecosystem that integrates all trade-related processes.
The implementation of the National Single Window adds a critical digital dimension to these reforms.
The NSW is an integrated electronic platform that allows traders to submit all import and export documentation through a single portal rather than dealing separately with multiple government agencies.
In the traditional system, importers and exporters are required to process documentation with several regulatory bodies, including customs, port authorities and inspection agencies.
This fragmented process often leads to duplication, delays and bureaucratic bottlenecks.
 The National Single Window eliminates these inefficiencies by integrating all trade-related processes into one digital ecosystem.
The result is faster cargo clearance, improved transparency and greater accountability in port operations.
Digital platforms reduce human intervention in administrative processes, thereby minimising opportunities for corruption and revenue leakages.
 In addition, real-time information sharing among stakeholders enhances coordination and improves decision-making across the maritime value chain.
From a macro economic perspective, these reforms have the potential to significantly boost government revenue and stimulate economic growth.
Efficient ports facilitate increased trade volumes, which in turn lead to higher customs duties, port charges and related maritime revenues.
Improved logistics infrastructure also supports export-oriented industries by ensuring that Nigerian products can reach international markets more efficiently.
Furthermore, modern ports and digital trade systems can attract foreign direct investment into sectors such as shipping, logistics, manufacturing and maritime services.
Investors are typically drawn to economies with reliable infrastructure and efficient trade systems, and the ongoing reforms are expected to strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global trading environment.
Ultimately, the combined impact of port modernisation and the National Single Window will extend beyond the maritime sector.
By improving trade facilitation, lowering logistics costs and enhancing revenue generation, these reforms will contribute to broader economic diversification and position Nigeria as a leading maritime hub in West and Central Africa.
Analysts project that a fully operational National Single Window could boost customs revenue by 10 to 20 per cent annually, translating into an additional N600 billion to N1.2 trillion in government earnings.
Beyond revenue generation, the system could reduce cargo dwell time by 35 to 45 per cent and cut overall trade transaction costs by up to 25 per cent.
Such improvements would significantly enhance Nigeria’s logistics performance and ease of doing business.
NPA’s Operational Leadership
The successful implementation of these reforms depends heavily on the institutional leadership of the Nigerian Ports Authority.
Under the leadership of Abubakar Dantsoho, the NPA has intensified efforts to modernise infrastructure, strengthen digital systems and improve operational efficiency across the nation’s port network.
The authority’s reform agenda includes the deployment of advanced automation tools such as the Port Community System, the Vessel Traffic Management System and digital cargo tracking platforms.
These initiatives are designed to enhance real-time coordination among port stakeholders and create the technological backbone required for the National Single Window to function effectively.
 The impact of these reforms is also reflected in the financial performance of the NPA.
The authority generated N894.86 billion in revenue in 2024 and is projecting N1.28 trillion in revenue for 2025, driven largely by increased cargo traffic, digital automation and infrastructure upgrades.
 Additionally, the NPA remitted a record N400.8 billion to the Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF) in 2024, nearly double the amount remitted the previous year.
These figures underscore the growing economic significance of Nigeria’s maritime sector when supported by effective institutional leadership.
Oyetola’s Policy Coordination
While the NPA handles operational execution, the broader policy direction guiding the reforms comes from the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy led by Adegboyega Oyetola.
The establishment of the ministry itself marked a strategic shift in Nigeria’s economic planning by recognising the maritime domain as a critical driver of national development.
The blue economy encompasses a wide range of activities including shipping, fisheries, marine transport, offshore energy and coastal tourism.
For Nigeria — with over 850 kilometres of coastline and vast maritime resources — these sectors represent enormous untapped economic potential.
Oyetola’s policy framework focuses on strengthening maritime governance, enhancing regulatory coordination and attracting investment into port infrastructure and maritime services.
By aligning policy reforms with infrastructure upgrades and digital transformation, the ministry aims to build a maritime ecosystem capable of supporting Nigeria’s long-term economic diversification.
Expanding Maritime Trade
Another key objective of the reform programme is to position Nigeria as a major maritime logistics hub in West and Central Africa.
Nigeria’s geographic location already places it along some of the busiest shipping routes connecting Europe, Asia and the Americas with Africa.
However, inefficiencies in port operations historically prevented the country from fully capitalising on this advantage.
With modern infrastructure, improved digital systems and streamlined regulatory processes, Nigeria’s ports could become the preferred destination for cargo serving the West African sub-region.
Evidence of this emerging potential can already be seen in the growing role of ports such as Lekki Deep Sea Port, which has significantly increased container traffic and trans-shipment volumes.
The development of modern ports alongside improved inland logistics networks could transform Nigeria into a regional redistribution centre for maritime trade.

Economic Multipliers

The broader economic implications of these reforms extend far beyond the port terminals themselves.

Efficient ports stimulate economic activity across multiple sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture, logistics and international trade.
Faster cargo clearance reduces production delays for industries that rely on imported raw materials, while improved export logistics enhance the competitiveness of Nigerian products in global markets.
Digital trade systems also improve transparency and reduce revenue leakages, strengthening government finances.
In addition, maritime infrastructure investments create employment opportunities across engineering, logistics, information technology and port operations.
Analysts estimate that a fully operational digital maritime ecosystem could generate over 100,000 direct and indirect jobs across the logistics and ICT sectors.
Such economic multipliers highlight why the maritime sector is increasingly viewed as a strategic pillar of Nigeria’s economic diversification strategy.
Charting Nigeria’s Maritime Future
The reforms being implemented in Nigeria’s maritime sector represent one of the most significant structural transformations of the country’s trade infrastructure in decades.
By combining port modernisation with digital trade facilitation, the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu is laying the groundwork for a more efficient and globally competitive port system.
With strong policy coordination from Adegboyega Oyetola and operational leadership from Abubakar Dantsoho at the Nigerian Ports Authority, the maritime sector is gradually being repositioned as a major driver of national economic growth.
If sustained and fully implemented, these reforms could transform Nigeria’s ports into modern logistics gateways capable of supporting industrial expansion, regional trade integration and long-term economic prosperity.
In many ways, the success of this maritime transformation will not only redefine the efficiency of Nigeria’s port system but also shape the country’s role in the future architecture of global trade.
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Realtors seek partnership with Lagos Govt on Omi Eko waterways  transportation project.

Funso OLOJO, Editor.
The €410m foreign creditors  – backed Omi Eko water transportation project of Lagos state government has received a big boost with the interest shown by the  International Real Estate Federation (FIABCI).
The professional Realtors have approached the Lagos state government through the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) to explore areas of collaboration around Lagos State’s expanding water transportation system and its broader Blue Economy potential.
The delegation was led by Akin Opatola,  President of FIABCI Nigeria and  Mr. Adeniji Adele, President of FIABCI Africa and the Near East, as well as senior officials and members of the international real estate federation.
The delegation was received by Mr Emmanuel Oluwadamilola, the General Manager of LASWA who also doubles as Special Adviser on Blue Economy to the Governor of Lagos State.
The two parties discussed the Lagos State’s ambitious efforts to modernize its inland waterways transport system through the OMI EKO Water Transport Project.
The LASWA General Manager outlined the strategic direction of the project and its role in transforming urban mobility across Lagos.
According to  him, the initiative is designed to decongest Lagos roads, improve productivity, reduce transportation costs, and lower carbon emissions, while positioning water transportation as a central pillar of Lagos State’s urban mobility strategy.
He further disclosed that the project will introduce modern ferry operations supported by electrified vessels, upgraded terminals, and integrated transport infrastructure, creating a cleaner and more efficient water transport ecosystem.
Mr Oluwadamilola further told FIABCI delegation that OMI EKO project is supported by a strong international financing structure including, Agence Française de Développement (AFD) – €130 million loan, European Investment Bank (EIB) – €170 million loan, European Union – €60 million grant
Lagos State Government – €40 million counterpart funding
Private sector participation in Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS).
Also, the project will deliver 15 ferry routes across Lagos waterways,
Dredging and marking of approximately 140 kilometers of navigable channels,
Development of 25 modern ferry terminals and jetties, Deployment of electric ferries, Integrated ticketing and improved waterway safety infrastructure.
Following the presentation, members of the visiting FIABCI delegation engaged the LASWA leadership in a round of questions and observations, seeking further clarification on the implementation framework of the OMI EKO project.
Members of the delegation sought insights into issues including terminal development opportunities, private sector participation, integration with urban planning, and the long-term investment potential of Lagos’ water transport corridors.
Mr. Oluwadamilola further elaborated  on the project’s structure and the strategic vision of Lagos State to position water transportation as a key pillar of the state’s evolving Blue Economy.
Speaking during the meeting, FIABCI Nigeria President, Akin Opatola, noted that the modernization of Lagos waterways presents a strategic opportunity to rethink how cities integrate transport infrastructure with real estate and urban development.
Opatola emphasized that major water transport infrastructure projects such as the OMI EKO initiative create new corridors of economic activity, particularly around ferry terminals and waterfront locations.
He stated that the real estate sector has a critical role to play in supporting such infrastructure through transport-oriented development, waterfront regeneration, and the creation of mixed-use economic hubs that can stimulate sustainable urban growth.
He further noted that FIABCI members, as professionals in the real estate and development ecosystem, are keen to explore ways in which urban planning, investment, and property development can align with Lagos State’s water transportation expansion.
Also speaking, Mr. Adeniji Adele, President of FIABCI Africa and the Near East, observed that Lagos is uniquely positioned to become a leading example in Africa of how coastal cities can leverage their waterways to drive mobility, economic development, and sustainable waterfront investment.
He noted that global cities that successfully integrate their waterways into urban life often unlock significant real estate and tourism value, and expressed optimism that Lagos could replicate similar outcomes as the OMI EKO project unfolds.
 Ubong Essien, Founder of the Blue Economy Academy, emphasized the importance of collaboration among government agencies, industry professionals, and investors in delivering large-scale maritime infrastructure initiatives.
Essien noted that Nigeria’s experience in strengthening maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea demonstrated that successful sector transformation often begins when all stakeholders are brought to the table at the earliest stages of major projects.
He also pointed out that the 25 ferry terminals planned under the OMI EKO project represent significant opportunities for transport-oriented waterfront development across Lagos, creating new intersections between mobility infrastructure, urban development, and the Blue Economy.
The visit underscores the growing recognition of Lagos waterways as a strategic mobility and economic infrastructure for Africa’s largest city.
It could be recalled that the Omi Eko project was launched in October, 2025.
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