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Azibapu Godbless Eruani, President  and founder of the Azikel Group, is a man of vision, grit, and audacity. A man of commitments and unrelenting grit, Dr. Eruani has etched his name boldly in Nigeria’s industrial development. From a celebrated medical doctor to a government commissioner and now an industrial powerhouse, Eruani has redefined what it means to turn obstacles into opportunities.

Beneath the tidal creeks of Bayelsa State, beneath its forests, beneath its skies often choked with despair over economic neglect, Dr. Eruani has built more than a business; he is building a revival – not just for himself, but for an entire region long condemned to watch others harvest its riches.

Today, the Azikel Group is not just a company — it is an industrial movement that has turned Bayelsa, a state often dismissed as a backwater, into a budding hub of private-driven industrialisation.. With this, Eruani has etched his name not only into the entrepreneurial annals of Bayelsa State but also into the wider economic story of Nigeria.

The Azikel Group with  headquarters in  Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, has over 700 employees, an annual revenue  exceeding $80 million, and with subsidiaries straddling sand dredging, aviation, power, agriculture, and petroleum refining, the Azikel Group today stands as an inspiring testament to what courage and good thinking can achieve in an environment where excuses often drown ambition. The Azikel Group has brought some industrial revival.

At the heart of this revival is Azikel Refinery- a member of  the Azikel Group –, an $850 million hydro-skimming modular refinery in Obunagha, Gbarain-Ubie near Yenagoa, Bayelsa State in Nigeria, near  the East-West Road and the Isaac Adako Boro Expressway that connects to Yenagoa and Port Harcourt. It is surrounded by Obunagha community on the north, Nun River on the south, proposed Azikel power plant on the west and is 20m away from the Gbarian-Ubie Shell Gas Gathering Facility on the east.

Today, rising proudly on the swampy lands of Obunagha, Yenagoa, stands the Azikel Refinery—  one of Nigeria’s most audacious private industrial projects —  It is Nigeria’s first privately built condensate refinery and the first of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa. It is Dr. Eruani’s boldest project yet—an endeavour that may shift the story of industrialization in Nigeria

Licensed in 2015 by the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), the refinery was conceived to address Nigeria’s long-standing paradox — being Africa’s biggest crude producer but still reliant on imported refined products.

“This is not a topping plant producing only diesel,” Dr. Eruani explains passionately. “We are Africa’s first refinery that processes both crude oil and condensate as feedstock. What was once wasted is now turned into value.”

The refinery, built on 19.9 hectares of reclaimed swamp, is strategically located near the Shell-operated Gbarain-Ubie Gas Gathering Facility, ensuring direct supply of feedstock through a pipeline connection. Its 12,000 barrels-per-day capacity will produce premium-grade PMS, diesel, kerosene, aviation fuel, and LPG, meeting Euro 6 international standards.

Sometimes ago, Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri visited the place.  After  a tour of the facility, he praised Eruani for “breaking the jinx” of industrial stagnation. “He has made Bayelsa a refinery-hosting state,” Diri said, calling the project a milestone for job creation and revenue.

Diri added, “Dr. Eruani has made Bayelsa a refinery-hosting state. He has broken the jinx of industrial stagnation… this refinery will improve IGR (internally generated revenue) and create jobs for our youth.”

That “bold move” was into sand dredging—a vital but unglamorous industry many considered unworthy of a man with his pedigree. His mother, deeply proud of his medical laurels, opposed the decision. But Eruani persisted, driven by the acute infrastructural needs of Bayelsa, a state that sits precariously below sea level and relies heavily on sand for construction.

“I knew from the outset that I was going to redefine the business,” he says. “When I started, I didn’t even own a dredger. I partnered with those who did, hired local canoe operators, and built gradually. From there, Azikel Dredging grew into the leading dredging firm in the state—and the foundation of what would later become the Azikel Group.”

Also, a few weeks ago, last August, former President, Goodluck Jonathan paid a visit to the Azikel Group. He lauded what he described as the high standard investment of the Azikel Group which includes dredging, power, aviation and petroleum in Nigeria.

Jonathan speaking at the unveiling of two brown new helicopters to the fleets of the group at the operational base in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, said the two additional new helicopters were equipped facilities, special and spectacular to match the challenging operations in the Niger Delta which is mostly riverine and offshore.

The Azikel Group conglomerate has acquired fleets of helicopters for the safe and efficient movement of the Company’s Executives and operations.  Jonathan averred that the newly acquired 2025 Bell helicopter 505 and 2025 Agusta 109SP Elite Configuration helicopter will enhance efficiency and safe operations.

The former president, who also visited the Azikel Refinery, lauded the speed of work at the Azikel Refinery which is at its completion phase. He shared the optimism that the refinery when fully operational will benefit the overall economic and industrial benefit to the people of Bayelsa and Nigeria in general.

In his response, President of Azikel Group, Dr. Azibapu Eruani, appreciated the former President, for the visit to the Azikel Operational Base and the Azikel Refinery and for unveiling the new helicopters.

Dr. Eruani, expressed confidence that the products of the refinery are of the best quality and of the highest grade which meets international specifications.  “The products of the Azikel Refinery are of highest quality and grade euro 6 to meet the highest international specifications”, the Azikel chief executive said.

“The Agusta 109 SP is the best helicopter, it is built to adapt to challenging weather, highly efficient and reliable for maximum comfort and safe flight. The 2025 Agusta 109 SP flew from Italy to Nigeria and so owing to the inbuilt capabilities, it only requires programming to fly to different destinations in Nigeria with little supervision by certified pilot.

“This is the latest Bell 505 which is the best of its kind; and it’s also built for comfort, and safety, such that the computerized device can detect turbulence and send signals for safe landing”

Azikel Refinery is a greenfield hydro-skimming refinery project being developed by Azikel Group in Nigeria. The project is estimated to involve an investment of $12bn. Operated by Azikel Petroleum, an Azikel Group subsidiary, the 12,000 barrels per day refinery is Nigeria’s first private refinery project with hydro-skimming configuration. When completed, it will produce mixed LPG, gasoline, kerosene, aviation fuels, and diesel as primary products and heavy fuel oil, naphtha and gas oil as secondary products.

Though rooted in Bayelsa, Azikel Group’s outlook is global. Azikel Aviation provides private aviation services to top executives and government officials. Azikel Agriculture is investing in food security, while Azikel Energy is positioning for Africa’s future energy mix. But to understand its full weight, one must first retrace the steps of the man who dared to imagine it

As such, today in the story of Nigeria’s rising industrial titans, few names resonate as boldly as  Eruani, From humble beginnings as a celebrated medical doctor to becoming one of Nigeria’s most audacious industrialists, his journey exemplifies what happens when foresight, determination, and purposeful relationships converge to fuel destiny.

Dr Eruani resigned from his positions as a commissioner in Bayelsa State and ventured  into the entrepreneurial space. At that time, he started business by selling sands, having seeing opportunities within the building and construction industry, since people needed plenty sands for building, because the state is below sea level.

He became a sand seller to Bayelsans. And soon, he re-defined the business as he had a burning desire to support infrastructural development of the state and the Niger Delta, by easing the difficulty in getting sand. When he started the sand business, he had didn’t have the needed equipment beyond a few workers who were mining sand , using local canoes. He tells of the early days.

“When I started this business, I had didn’t have a dredger so I hired people that were mining sand through help of local canoes. In the long run I did not only change the business, I took the driver’s seat and my company, Azikel Dredging, became the leading dredging firm in the state. I must let you know that Azikel Dredging started the entire conglomerate called Azikel Group.”

Using his creativity and social connections, he acquired dredging machines to scoop sand. And thus the compamy evolved into Azikel Dredging, which within years became the leading dredging firm in the Niger Delta. And contrary to assumptions of inherited wealth, Eruani used his creativity to power the business. How did he do this? He raised N30 million to acquire a truck. But how does a man move from taking a ₦30 million loan to buy his first truck, to commanding an empire worth hundreds of millions of dollars? The Secret Sauce: vision, grit, and relationships.

“Not many people knew that I took a loan when I started business, but I did. I took the first loan of N30 millionto buy my first truck and I took the second loan of N70 million to buy other trucks. Interestingly, when I started the dredging business, I didn’t even have up to N5 million in my account but then I came up with a strategy and partner with one Akpe from Sagbama LGA who own a dredger that wasn’t in use. I told him “come and dredge sand for me on my land and I will pay you”, of course, I paid him from sale of the heaps of sand he dredged for me. What I’m I saying is that I deployed my business acumen to source for money when I started and it worked. Therefore, I dare to say wealth is a function of right thinking and the application of thought out plan to action.”

That mix of financial ingenuity and courage has marked every step of his expansion.

“Business is about good thinking,” Azibapu explained. “Wealth is a function of the right mindset, translated into concrete action.” He didn’t have millions when he started, but he had strategy, grit, and the ability to build relationships that mattered.

From dredging, Azibapu took a bold leap into energy. “Most Bayelsa businessmen at the time invested in hotels or trading,” he said. “But I wanted to change the industrial narrative of our people. I wanted to prove that we could play in spaces considered too complex.”

In 2015, Azikel Power secured a 500MW on-grid power generation license from the Federal Government — a feat that placed the company on the national energy map. Not long after, Azikel Petroleum Limited emerged as one of only 22 companies to be granted a refinery license out of hundreds of applicants. Today, the $850 million Azikel Refinery in Yenagoa is nearing completion, standing as the first and only condensate hydro-skimming refinery in sub-Saharan Africa.

The refinery is perhaps his boldest project yet. Sitting on land near the Shell-operated Gbarain-Ubie Gas Gathering Project, it is 87 percent complete and will refine five million litres of premium products daily.

“This is not a topping plant producing only diesel,” he explains. “We are Africa’s first and only refinery that processes both crude oil and condensate as feedstock. What was once wasted is now turned into value.”

The project already employs over 400 workers, with 250 Bayelsans among them. Many have been trained overseas, ensuring world-class expertise is transferred home.

The proximity of the refinery to Shell’s Gbarian-Ubie oil and gas facility will ensure affordable feedstock supply. The Shell facility will directly supply Bonny light crude and condensate to the Azikel refinery storage tanks via pipeline.

The refinery rates 5.3 in the Nelson Complexity Index (NCI), which is a measure of oil refinery sophistication. The state-of-the-art operation system of the refinery will work on the emission control mechanism to attain the lowest achievable emission rate (LAER), supporting the facility to be the cleanest refinery in Africa.

A very high research octane number clear (RONC) reformate will be produced in the refinery, using UOP Reformer technology, which will be mixed with light straight run (LSR) naphtha and butane to produce premium motor spirit (PMS) at 89 RONC.

The refinery will require 140 gallons per minute (gpm) of raw water, cooling water circulation of 1,200gpm and boiling feed water of 52gpm.

A lot of people say the Niger Delta helps Nigeria  make fortunes with  substantial crude oil  coming from Bayelsa, but rarely does its own soil refine it. Until now when Aziikel Refinery come into being.

And what makes it different? Why does it matter? There are refineries in Nigeria, but few are private, fewer still combine feedstocks, and almost none have been realized despite government promises. Azikel stands out as:

Dual feedstock operation: processing both crude and condensate, transforming what was once wasted or under-utilised, adding value internally.

Hydro-skimming configuration: allowing more complete refining, more variety of end products beyond just fuel oil or diesel.

Modular construction: Many core modules built overseas (notably by McDermott, USA), shipped in and assembled, helping manage risks and reduce some delays.

Local content, jobs, skills: Over 400 indigenous and expatriate workers already employed, 250 of them Bayelsans; staff trained at home and abroad.

No such mammoth project comes without formidable opposition and challenges. These include financial hurdles, especially in accessing foreign exchange for imported equipment and modules. Then skepticism: from every layer—neighbors, analysts, sometimes even his own family. When Dr. Eruani left medicine and public service for sand and dredging, many wondered whether he was wasting a gifted mind. His mother reportedly asked, “You’re a celebrated medical doctor, why stoop so low?” Eruani also has regulatory and bureaucratic inertia to deal with. Though licenses are granted, many private refinery projects in Nigeria never begin; many stall. But Azikel has kept being measured not by promises, but by work on the ground.

Dr. Eruani often calls this “good thinking” – wealth as a function of the right mindset translated into concrete action. It is a belief: that structural change requires not only capital, but resolve, patience, relationships.

Dr. Eruani Azibapu’s story is not just one of riches, but of purposeful persistence. His path from treating patients, to treating communities, is more than metaphor. It is built into sand, into pipelines, into modules, into the dreams of young Bayelsans now being trained as refinery technicians and engineers. It’s in the rust-red soil of foundations, in the glow of welding torches, in the roar of turbines yet to spin.

When President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office in 2023, Nigeria’s economy was teetering on the brink. The country faced a crippling debt crisis, inflation had eroded purchasing power, and over 46 percent of citizens lived below the poverty line. With food inflation skyrocketing, many Nigerians spent up to 70 percent of their income just to eat. Infrastructure gaps—in power, transport, and logistics—further stifled productivity, while insecurity and weak state capacity compounded the nation’s woes.

It was, by every measure, a moment that demanded courage. And courage is precisely what the Tinubu administration displayed. Through his Renewed Hope Agenda, the president launched an ambitious suite of economic reforms that, though painful at first, are now beginning to deliver tangible results. The removal of the petroleum subsidy and the floating of the naira were controversial and initially punishing to ordinary Nigerians. But these measures have proven to be the bitter pills that are gradually restoring the nation’s economic health.

Today, the tide is turning. The pressure on the naira has eased, and the currency has begun to appreciate steadily. The Nigerian Stock Exchange is once again vibrant, with renewed investor confidence reflected in roaring indices and rising capital inflows. The macroeconomic outlook, once bleak, now gleams with hope. GDP expanded by 3.9 percent in the first half of 2025, while foreign reserves climbed past the $42 billion mark. The public debt-to-GDP ratio, which peaked at 42.9 percent in 2024, is projected to decline to 39.8 percent by the end of 2025—a testament to disciplined fiscal management and improved transparency.

Inflation, Nigeria’s most stubborn foe, is also on the retreat. The cost of a basic food basket—once an unbearable burden for low-income households—has fallen significantly in recent times. Food inflation, which had disproportionately punished the poor, is finally easing. For the first time in years, millions of Nigerian families can stretch their earnings a bit further without sacrificing their dignity or their next meal.

The government’s commitment to social protection has been another bright spot. Targeted cash transfers to vulnerable households have helped cushion the impact of reforms. Although these initiatives must be scaled and institutionalized, they signify a conscious shift toward inclusive governance—one that seeks to ensure that economic stability translates into social equity.

The gains of the last two years are not accidental. They stem from deliberate, well-sequenced reforms that aim to rebalance Nigeria’s macroeconomic fundamentals. By stabilizing inflation, promoting exchange rate flexibility, and enhancing fiscal transparency, the government has created much-needed fiscal space. That space, if prudently managed, could catalyze deeper structural changes—improved public service delivery, better infrastructure, and a more enabling environment for private enterprise to thrive.

Nigeria is no longer languishing in the low-equilibrium trap of dependency and underproductivity. A new policy direction, grounded in discipline and reform, is steering the nation toward competitiveness and inclusive growth. With the economy gaining stability, attention can now turn to the next frontier: consolidating progress through human capital development, industrialization, and climate resilience.

Still, this is no time for complacency. The road ahead remains steep. Sustained progress demands monetary discipline, higher revenues, and efficient spending. Trade barriers must be dismantled, logistics and power supply improved, and public spending efficiency tightened. The ultimate goal is to ensure that macroeconomic stability translates into measurable improvements in livelihoods—jobs, food security, and social welfare.

Economic reform, by nature, tests the patience of nations. It is slow, complex, and often painful. But the current trajectory shows that Nigeria’s pain is beginning to yield progress. The economy is stabilizing, investor confidence is returning, and poverty indicators are improving. For a country long accustomed to cycles of crisis and recovery, this moment marks a critical turning point.

President Tinubu’s administration deserves credit for its political will in confronting entrenched distortions that had hobbled Nigeria’s economy for decades. Yet, the ultimate measure of success will be how well these macroeconomic gains are translated into micro-level prosperity—into meals on tables, power in homes, and opportunities for youth.

Nigeria stands today at the dawn of a new economic chapter—one defined not by dependency and despair, but by reform and resilience. The early fruits of the Tinubu administration’s reforms are proof that progress is possible when difficult choices are made for the long-term good. The challenge now is consistency: to sustain the discipline, deepen reforms, and ensure that the light of renewed hope continues to shine on every Nigerian home.

Indeed, from pain has come progress—and from progress must come prosperity

Dr  Ayodele Ogunsan- entrepreneur and statesman, Chairman of the Executive Group,    – is the  Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF). The seasoned entrepreneur, innovative security expert, public administrator, and educationist, is a man of exemplary leadership, of virtues, capacity and efficiency. He has seamlessly integrated great values with his public service, entrepreneurship, and security expertise, making him a leader of great influence and integrity.

When Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu approved the appointment of Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan as the  CEO of LSSTF, it was not merely an administrative decision—it was a strategic stroke of genius. In a city that stands as Africa’s commercial heartbeat, where millions converge daily to trade, work, and dream, security is the invisible architecture holding everything together. Strengthening that foundation meant finding a man who embodies integrity, intelligence, and innovation. That man is Dr. Ogunsan. Ogunsan’s life is a remarkable story of faith, purpose, and public service—a blend of spiritual devotion and pragmatic leadership. His emergence as the head of the LSSTF marks a new dawn for Lagos—a city that continues to expand its frontiers as a mega city of global significance. Under his watch, Lagos is poised not only to deepen its security architecture but also to inspire renewed confidence in governance, business, and social life.
Few appointments in the Sanwo-Olu administration have resonated as strongly with the public  as that of Dr. Ogunsan. To understand why, one must appreciate the place of security in the socio-economic life of Lagos. Beyond its glittering skyline and bustling highways, Lagos thrives on one essential element: safety. Every thriving marketplace, every growing industry, every innovation hub owes its life to security—the silent force that ensures stability. For years, the Lagos State Security Trust Fund has been the nerve center of this effort—linking government, private sector, and law enforcement in an unbroken chain of collaboration. When Ogunsan was named Executive Secretary/CEO last month-Octtober, those who knew his record as a board member of the Fund since 2020 nodded in approval. He had already demonstrated extraordinary insight into how security fuels development. His elevation was therefore both a reward for excellence and an investment in continuity. Governor Sanwo-Olu captured it succinctly when he described Ogunsan as “a man whose track record of integrity and dedication to public service speaks for itself.” Indeed, Lagos could not have asked for a more capable hand to run its security funds and ensure modern equipment and , logistics and motivation for the police and other sister security agencies to help make Lagos streets crime-free.. Born into humble beginnings in Agege, Lagos, Ayodele Ogunsan’s story is the Nigerian dream personified—a journey from modest origins to prominence through faith, diligence, and vision. His early education at Ibido Primary School and St. Joseph Secondary School, Idimangoro was marked by an insatiable thirst for learning and a determination to rise above limitations. Even as a young boy, he displayed traits that would later define his adult life—discipline, humility, and a quiet strength that commanded respect. His tertiary education journey took him to Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti, where he studied Business Administration and Management. That decision would prove prophetic. It was here that Ogunsan began to understand the symbiotic relationship between commerce, governance, and security. He later refined his business acumen at Yaba College of Technology, studying Business Administration, and furthered his professional training at the Peugeot Automobile Postgraduate College in Kaduna.
Each of these experiences broadened his understanding of how strategic management and efficiency could transform systems—whether in business, education, or government. They laid the foundation for the formidable administrator and entrepreneur he would become.

Before stepping into the public limelight, Dr. Ogunsan made his mark in Nigeria’s private sector. As the Chairman of the Executive Group, he built a reputation for excellence and ethical leadership. His businesses, spanning diverse sectors, created jobs, empowered young people, and demonstrated that profit and principle can coexist. In an environment where corporate responsibility often takes a back seat, Ogunsan distinguished himself by placing people before profit, showing that enterprise could be a force for social good.

His business philosophy is simple but profound: “When you build people, you build a system that endures.” This principle mirrors his later work in public service—building security systems not just around infrastructure but around people, values, and partnerships. When he joined the Lagos State Security Trust Fund Board in 2020, he brought with him a rare blend of corporate discipline, security insight, and faith-based integrity. His contributions were immediate and measurable—bolstering partnerships between government and private organizations, improving the efficiency of resource allocation, and helping to equip security agencies with modern tools.
It is impossible to discuss  Ogunsan without acknowledging his deep and abiding faith. A devoted member of the Deeper Life Bible Church and a close associate of Pastor William Kumuyi, Ogunsan exemplifies what it means to bring spirituality into leadership. He is widely known as “God’s General in the government space,” a fitting description for a man whose faith informs every decision he makes. For him, faith is not a private sentiment—it is a framework for public ethics. His commitment to transparency, accountability, and service is rooted in his Christian belief that leadership is stewardship. His integrity radiates across both public and private spaces, earning him the trust of colleagues, subordinates, and even political leaders.

In a society where values often seem negotiable, Ogunsan stands firm, proving that a man can succeed in governance without compromising his principles. He has often said that “leadership without morality is like motion without direction.” His life gives meaning to those words.
Lagos today is a metropolis of 20 million people, a city that never sleeps. With its rapid growth come complex challenges—urban migration, infrastructure pressure, and of course, security concerns. From traffic robberies to cybercrime, from community policing needs to inter-agency coordination, Lagos’s security demands are as dynamic as its economy. This is where the LSSTF under Dr. Ogunsan’s leadership becomes indispensable. His appointment represents a strategic renewal of Lagos’s commitment to proactive, intelligent, and collaborative security management.
Building upon the foundation laid by his predecessor, Dr. Abdurrazaq Balogun, Ogunsan has injected fresh energy and direction into the Fund. His approach emphasizes public-private collaboration, recognizing that security is everyone’s business. He believes that when citizens, businesses, and government work together, crime can be curbed more effectively than through policing alone.

Under his leadership, LSSTF is pursuing a comprehensive roadmap for security reform—one that includes modern surveillance systems, improved logistics for security agencies, and strengthened community intelligence networks. The goal is simple but ambitious: to make Lagos not just safer, but smarter. Security, for Ogunsan, is not just about policing; it is about creating an environment where commerce, creativity, and community life can thrive. He understands that investors and innovators are drawn to stability, and that safety is the ultimate enabler of progress.
Dr. Ogunsan’s leadership and contributions extend far beyond Lagos and Nigeria. His recent appointment to the Advisory Board of the Centre for African Social and Economic Transformation (CASET) at the University of the West of England, UK, is a resounding international endorsement of his intellect and impact.

The University’s Vice-Chancellor, Jo Midgley, in announcing the appointment, lauded Ogunsan’s “extensive experience and contributions to Africa’s higher education sector through training university leaders and teaching personnel.” Through this new role, he joins a select group of African thinkers and policymakers dedicated to driving research, education, and social transformation across the continent. It is yet another recognition that his leadership transcends geography—his vision is Pan-African. Under Governor Sanwo-Olu’s leadership, Lagos continues to consolidate its position as West Africa’s commercial powerhouse. Yet, none of this prosperity would be possible without a robust security framework. Dr. Ogunsan’s leadership at the LSSTF has become a bridge between security and economic growth, ensuring that the engines of trade, tourism, and technology operate in an environment of peace. His initiatives go beyond providing patrol vehicles or equipment; they are about building trust between citizens and security institutions. That trust, once broken, takes years to rebuild—but under Ogunsan’s stewardship, Lagos is witnessing renewed confidence. Businesses are thriving, nightlife is returning, and the city’s social fabric feels more secure.

In essence, Dr. Ogunsan has become a custodian of Lagos’s collective hope when it comes to security and helping to make funding available—protecting lives, enabling dreams, and securing the city’s place as Africa’s window to the world. He is an inspiring example of value-driven leadership. At just 49 years old, he embodies a leadership model desperately needed in today’s Nigeria—one that harmonizes competence with conscience, success with service, and ambition with accountability .Whether as an educationist, entrepreneur, or public servant, his mission has remained constant: to serve humanity through excellence and integrity. He represents a generation of Nigerian leaders who see governance not as a privilege, but as a calling. His journey from the classrooms of Agege to the corridors of power in Lagos and the boardrooms of international academia is more than personal success—it is an inspiration for young Nigerians who believe in the transformative power of hard work and faith.

Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration has been characterized by bold infrastructure projects, urban renewal, and people-centered policies. But at the heart of it all lies security—because without safety, there can be no sustainable development. By appointing Dr. Ogunsan to lead the LSSTF, Sanwo-Olu not only secured Lagos’s physical future but also reaffirmed his faith in leadership with integrity. The synergy between the Governor’s vision and Ogunsan’s executional brilliance promises to usher in a new era of safety, stability, and prosperity. Already, their collaboration is bearing fruit: enhanced logistics for security agencies, improved inter-agency coordination, and new frameworks for community engagement. These are not just administrative wins—they are life-changing realities for millions of Lagosians. In the grand narrative of Lagos State’s security transformation, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan stands as one of its quiet architects—a man whose faith-driven vision will help redefine what it means to lead. His story teaches that success is not measured merely by titles or achievements, but by impact—the lives touched, the systems improved, the values upheld. Through his role at the LSSTF, his entrepreneurial achievements, and his global contributions, Dr. Ogunsan is demonstrating that security and development are not parallel pursuits—they are interwoven destinies. Governor Sanwo-Olu’s choice of Ogunsan is, indeed, one of the greatest gifts to Lagos State in this era of expansion—a testament to what happens when faith meets foresight, and leadership meets integrity.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu marked two years in office on May 29, 2025. These past two years have not only tested the resilience of the Nigerian state but have also illuminated the character of its leader—his courage to confront difficult truths, his vision to chart a new path, and his determination to lay the foundation for long-term national prosperity. No wonder the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, declared that the achievements of President Tinubu in two years has relatively superseded other administrations. Idris made the assertion during his address at the 2025. Voice of Nigeria’s (VON) Forum in Abuja recently. And he seems right. When he came in on May 29, 2023, President Tinubu inherited a storm. Inflation was high, debt levels were rising, foreign exchange markets were distorted, and the trust of citizens in government had waned significantly. It was not a time for half-measures or cosmetic fixes. What Nigeria required was structural reform—bold and comprehensive—and that is precisely what President Tinubu set in motion.

One of the most defining features of Tinubu’s presidency so far has been his audacious economic reforms. In just two years, he has embarked on transformative initiatives across various sectors, laying the groundwork for sustainable development.

Key reforms include the removal of petrol subsidies and the unification of the exchange rate, creating a market-reflective and stable currency environment. These measures have enabled the Central Bank of Nigeria to increase foreign exchange reserves, now more than $38 billion. These reforms have resulted in a surge in investment inflows, with domestic and international investors regaining confidence in the economy. Fitch upgraded Nigeria’s long-term foreign-currency issuer default rating from B- to B and revised the outlook from Negative to Stable in April 2025. This upgrade reflects increased confidence in the government’s commitment to policy reforms, including exchange rate liberalization, monetary policy tightening, and steps to end deficit monetization and remove fuel subsidies. The World Bank recently reported that Nigeria’s economy grew at its fastest rate in nearly a decade in 2024, attributing this to the early successes of the President’s macroeconomic reforms. The country’s fiscal deficit dropped from 5.4% of GDP in 2023 to 3.0% in 2024, bolstered by increased national revenue, from ₦ 16.8 trillion to ₦ 31.9 trillion. Expectedly, the most contentious, yet necessary, was the removal of the decades-long fuel subsidy. Long perceived as a drain on public resources and a magnet for corruption, the subsidy system had crippled fiscal policy, diverting trillions of naira into the hands of rent seekers. Tinubu’s government ended it decisively. The first day he was inaugurated he put an end to the fuel subsidy regime. Though the move initially led to hardship for many citizens, it was a painful but essential correction.

In its place, the funds are now being redirected into critical sectors such as infrastructure, education, and health—sectors with long-term benefits for the common man. To mitigate the impact, the government has expanded conditional cash transfer programs and food security initiatives while working to boost local production and reduce dependency on imports.

Another game-changer was the introduction of the Naira-for-Crude policy, a bold initiative designed to stabilize the naira and streamline international trade. Coupled with comprehensive foreign exchange reforms and the unification of exchange rates, the policy has contributed to restoring investor confidence. The accumulation of over $23 billion in net foreign reserves stands as testimony to the renewed confidence in Nigeria’s economic trajectory. Indeed, the declaration of Alhaji Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation should be believed regarding the achievements of President Bola Tinubu these past two years. He drummed during his address at the 2025 Voice of Nigeria’s (VON) Forum on in Abuja, with the theme, “Renewed Hope Agenda: Citizen Engagement and National Security” organised by VON with support from the Ministry of Information and National Orientation.

The Minister explained that the starting point of Tinubu administration was rough and challenging, adding that, after the challenges, the country is looking bright, because Tinubu is steering the ship to prosperity with the prices of food dropping. He added that the implementation of local government autonomy facilitated by Tinubu and the establishment of Ministries of Regional Development and Livestock Development were deliberate efforts to provide development across the country. “A new study has shown that if the livestock sector is fully optimised, Nigeria can take in about N33 trillion, meaning there is that potential of making such an amount from that sector.

“Also, over two years ago, people were scared to travel to Kaduna by road, but now, people are moving to Kaduna with peace of mind. “This is not to say that it is uhuru, but there is a clear indication that there is cooperation in the management of our security system and for the first time in a long time, we are seeing effective coordination among the security agencies. Also, close to the heart of the president is institutional reforms which include local government autonomy, so that third tier of government will better able to serve the people. President Tinubu is also concerned with providing infrastructure connecting Nigeria for growth. President Tinubu’s administration recognizes that infrastructure is not a luxury—it is the lifeblood of development. Under his watch, Nigeria has witnessed groundbreaking progress in infrastructure development. Two legacy projects stand tall: the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway. These highways are not mere roads—they are lifelines for trade, tourism, and national unity. By opening up previously inaccessible areas, they promise to create new economic corridors, stimulate job creation, and foster regional development. In addition to these, the administration has committed to revitalizing the nation’s railway system, seaport modernization, and energy sector reform. These projects are key to unlocking Nigeria’s full economic potential. No national transformation can occur in the absence of peace and security. Nigeria has, for years, battled terrorism, banditry, and communal violence. In 2023, traveling the Abuja-Kaduna corridor by road was a nightmare. Fast forward to 2025, and people are now traveling that same route with peace of mind. The appointment of credible security chiefs and sustained engagements with community stakeholders have also yielded measurable success. While challenges remain, the improved peace in several troubled regions underscores the effectiveness of the strategy. Perhaps one of the most understated achievements of the Tinubu administration is the move towards local government autonomy. This is a historic step towards decentralization, accountability, and grassroots development. For years, the local government system in Nigeria has been a mere extension of state government bureaucracy, often stripped of resources and capacity.

Tinubu’s push for constitutional reform and the actual enforcement of local government financial autonomy has started to yield results. Local councils are beginning to function more independently, taking charge of basic healthcare, education, and rural

infrastructure—services critical to the masses. Additionally, the creation of the Ministry of Regional Development and the Ministry of Livestock Development highlights a leader thinking not just in terms of administrative convenience, but strategic national development. New Journey of Transformation Continues as Nigeria moves beyond the second anniversary of President Tinubu’s administration, there is a sense of measured optimism. The economy is stabilizing, infrastructure is expanding, security is improving, and governance is becoming more responsive. The challenges are not over, but neither is the courage of this administration waning. As the “Renewed Hope” agenda continues to unfold, the dream of a better Nigeria—a secure, prosperous, and inclusive nation—is no longer a distant vision. It is becoming a reality, step by determined step. Indeed, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has proven that with vision, courage, and purposeful leadership, a new Nigeria is possible. The journey has begun—and there is no turning back.

Asiwaju Good Governance Council is CHRONIC COMMUNICATIONS LIMITED’S signature project, covering institutions, political leaders, opinion leaders, government officials, global financial leaders, scientists, and project developers as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu embarks on reforms to reposition Nigeria for global reckoning and development, to guarantee industrialization and investments in the country to engender progress and national restoration.

The council shall be involved in round table conferences, reinforcing its position as a premier event for high-level dialogue and strategic action for good governance on the watch of President Tinubu. Its programmes will also spotlight how state governments across the country through strategic partnerships and collaborative initiatives, are setting the stage for transformative investments in the country.

GODWIN IGHODALO – Director General (DG)

KUNLE OLU-OJO- Chairman

POWERED BY: THE TELESCOPE MAGAZINE

CHRONIC COMMUNICATIONS LIMITED RC 1022098

For All Enquires please call: 08034725884, 0808 457 4074

INSURANCE

LET INSURANCE BE YOUR WELL

Insurance is purchased to provide financial protection or reimbursement against losses resulting from accidents, injury, fire or property damage or business protection, especially for small and medium enterprises. An insurance company pools clients’ risks to make payments more affordable for the insured. Having an insurance cover is a shield against life’s unpredictability. It is therefore the lifeline you never knew you needed.

In a world of uncertainty—where fires raze homes, accidents crush dreams, illnesses strike without warning, and life’s earnings vanish in the blink of an eye—insurance stands as the quiet, often underrated hero. It is the protective shield that cushions individuals, families, and businesses from the financial devastation that could follow unforeseen calamities.

Yet, many Nigerians still ask: Why insurance? Why now?

To understand the relevance of insurance in today’s fast-evolving economic climate, one must first grasp its essence. At its core, insurance is a financial arrangement that provides compensation for specific potential future losses in exchange for a periodic payment called a premium. Whether you’re safeguarding a vehicle, a home, your health, your business or even your life, insurance offers a guarantee: that in your darkest hour, you will not be alone.

Every day, Nigerians lose millions due to incidents that could have been mitigated by proper insurance. Think about the market woman whose shop burns down, the young breadwinner crippled in a car accident, or the farmer whose crops were destroyed by floodwaters. Without insurance, their lives often spiral into poverty, debt, and despair. But with insurance, that same market woman could get capital to restart her trade, the young man could access treatment and compensation, and the farmer could replant with minimal disruption.

Insurance does not stop misfortune from striking; rather, it absorbs the financial shock, giving people the room to breathe, recover, and rebuild.

One of the most brilliant aspects of insurance is its model of risk pooling. Here’s how it works: thousands or even millions of individuals contribute small sums (premiums) into a pool managed by an insurer. From this pool, claims are paid to those who experience insured losses. As a result, the financial burden of the few is shared by the many—a communal buffer that protects all participants.

For example, a fire that destroys a house worth ₦20 million might financially ruin the homeowner if faced alone. But if insured, the cost is distributed across the wider policyholder base, and the homeowner can be compensated without needing to sell other properties or beg for help. Personal responsibility meets social stability in insurance. It is not just a personal safety net; it also promotes economic and social stability. Countries with widespread insurance coverage are better able to respond to natural disasters, public health emergencies, and business interruptions. Insured businesses recover faster from crises, insured individuals return to work quicker, and insured properties are more likely to be rebuilt.

Moreover, insurance encourages savings, discipline, and long-term planning. Life insurance, for instance, is both a protective measure and a wealth-building tool. Health insurance reduces out-of-pocket medical expenses, which can push families into poverty. Motor insurance ensures that accident victims get justice and repairs are fairly funded.

Despite its benefits, insurance uptake in Nigeria remains low, largely due to ignorance, mistrust, and past experiences of unpaid claims. But this is changing. Regulator, the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) have tightened oversight, forcing operators to become more transparent and efficient.

Fintech is also making micro-insurance accessible to low-income earners via mobile apps and USSD codes. More importantly, Nigerians are gradually awakening to the truth: insurance is not a luxury; it is a necessity. The Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria (CIIN) President, Mrs. Yetunde Ilori, believes in consistently fostering forward-thinking conversations and collaborative innovations that prioritise technology in reshaping insurance operations.

She noted that the Insurance Meets Technology is helping in dismantling long-standing barriers and ushering in an era of innovation tailored to younger and tech-savvy Nigerians.

“The IMT is changing the narrative of our industry, bringing relevance, improving acceptance and creating a sustainable impact on the wider economy,” Ilori said

“The future of insurance lies in how effectively we integrate digital thinking into every layer of our operations.”

Equally, the Commissioner for Insurance, Olusegun Omosehin, acknowledged the IMT’s role in disrupting traditional practices and leading the charge for modernisation across the industry.

“Digital innovation is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity,” Omosehin asserted. To live without insurance in today’s world is to walk a tightrope without a safety net. You may never fall—but if you do, the consequences can be catastrophic. Insurance ensures that when life knocks you down, it doesn’t keep you down. Whether you are a student, artisan, business owner, or CEO, you need insurance—because tomorrow is uncertain, but your protection shouldn’t be. In the words of an old proverb, “It is better to dig a well before you are thirsty.” Let insurance be your well.