Personality in Focus
Why Presidency Should Call Musawa to Order – The Stakeholders Perspective
By Adepetu John
A Yoruba adage says, “Bi a ba fi ogun odun pile were, ojo wo la fe bu ni je?” This means “If it takes one twenty years to prepare for madness, when will one start biting people?”
The essence of the proverb is for one to strike while the iron is still hot instead of waiting and planning endlessly.
More than a year after President Bola Tinubu appointed Ms Hanatu Musawa as the Minister of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, stakeholders have expressed concerns that nothing has been achieved in the sector beyond rhetorics and grandstanding.
They said the actions of the Minister, exemplified more by flippant promises than concrete action, show she may not be well equipped to bring the much needed transformation to the Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy Sector.
Over the past years, economic experts and public affairs commentators have stressed that, as Nigeria grapples with economic challenges and strives to diversify its economic mainstay from oil, the creative sector is a veritable option.
Therefore, in August 2023, when President Bola Tinubu created a stand-alone Federal Ministry of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy (FMACCE), many Nigerians, especially industry players, saluted his courage.
They described the move as a genuine commitment to supporting the growth and development of the art, culture, and creative economy sector for national economic gains.
The creation of the ministry by President Tinubu was seen as a clear indication that he recognised the vital role that the sector can play in his “Renewed Hope Agenda”to secure national economic turn-around.
Tinubu’s vision is encapsulated in the 8-Point Renewed Hope Agenda, and the Art, Culture and Creative sector is captured in point seven of the agenda, which is, “accelerating diversification through industrialisation, digitisation, creative arts, manufacturing, and Innovation.
In the agenda, the Tinubu administration promised to bolster up the youths by exploiting the immense potentials in the entertainment, culture, tourism and arts sectors, particularly for job creation.
The stakeholders, therefore, viewed the creation of the ministry as a genuine commitment to supporting the growth and development of the art, culture and creative economy sector for national economic gains through job creation.
They, however expressed disappointment at Minister Musawa’s endless rhetorics, as all she has done since she was appointed is to peddle promissory notes on the creation of two million jobs for the youths, without any known steps taken to actualise the promise.
Two months after she assumed office, the minister, while addressing newsmen, promised to create two million jobs and shape the creative and cultural landscape of the nation. Nothing was done after that to actualise the promise as the Minister simply went underground.
In April, 2024, at the management retreat of the ministry which held about five months after the briefing referenced above, the minister again announced her intention to create two million jobs, without saying how or making any effort to make it happen.
“We are trying to diversify from oil through the creative industry. It is possible if we can get the support of those who know the creative industry very well and care about what the ministry is doing. We are looking at how to use the talents Nigerians have to bring value to the country.
“Job creation is key and we want to create and contribute 2 million jobs by 2027. We want to increase the GDP of Nigeria by 100 billion dollars by 2030.
“It is doable. We are going to work round the clock to ensure we are able to do that,” she said.
Speeches, promises as usual, no action. Meanwhile, the sector remains where it is.
The latest instance of plenty talk and no action came on Sept. 12, at a roundtable for local and international investors in Lagos, where Musawa reportedly “unveiled plans to generate at least 100 billion dollars and create over two million jobs from Nigeria’s creative economy yearly”.
In her speech, she lamented that despite its huge potential, Nigeria’s creative industry currently contributes just 5 billion dollars to the economy, with its different sub-sectors at various stages of development.
Perplexed Industry players have berated the Minister for lack of capacity to carry out the agenda set by the Tinubu administration to use the new ministry to create employment for the nation’s teeming youths.
Friday Ogunyemi, a member of Screen Writers Association of Nigeria, said that the new ministry needed peculiar leadership, someone who has been there, an industry player who understands in practical terms the challenges and the way forward for the sector.
“The Nigeria film and music industries have been described as self-made sectors, with little or no government input in its trajectory over the years.
“Now that there is a specific ministry for it, the first step should be to engage the industry players by bringing them together to discuss what affects them directly.
“This is why an industry person; someone who has been in the system, who understands the peculiar needs of the sector, is needed urgently to head the ministry,” he said.
Mathias Gimba, a member of Actors Guild of Nigeria, said although the pioneer minister has shown passion in ensuring that there is a turn-around in the sector, her lack of proper understanding of the sector and contact with stakeholders has been glaring in the last one year.
“She will do well in other areas of the Tinubu administration, but a more versatile and industry-oriented person is needed to drive the new art and culture and creative industry ministry,” he said.
Speaking in the same vein, an official of Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), who asked for anonymity, said the much anticipated turn-around that the creative space needs to create jobs, engage youths and contribute meaningfully to the GDP required more than jejune political statements and seminars.
According to the official, Nigeria has comparative advantages in the creative sector, for economic development, and the industry should not be left in the hands of a novice.
The official noted that the sector’s contribution of just 1.2 per cent to the GDP in 2022 is an aberration, whereas other African countries with less potentials and comparative advantages are doing better.
It was therefore, the consensus of the stakeholders that President Tinubu should rejig the leadership of the sector with a view to maximizing its potentials.
They warned that the promises being glibly made by Minister Musawa – which she has not taken any steps to actuate – will become an albatross around the neck of the Administration in 2027!
Personality in Focus
Eminent Gents Int’l Announces Philanthropist Abiodun Enilari Paseda As New President
By Eric Elezuo
The Eminent Gents International Club, an association of eminent gentlemen, who have proved their mettle in the society, and committed to lending a helping to the upliftment of the society, has announced Sir Abiodun Paseda as its new president.
Paseda takes over from Eminent Otunba Olumide Owoseni, who performed creditably well during his tenure in office.
The announcement was made following a keenly contested electoral process, where Paseda was elected unopposed. His election, according to a cross section of the club members, was made possible as a result of the confidence members reposed in him owing to his acknowledged discipline, focus and leadership abilities.
Announcing the results, the Chairman of the Electoral Committee, Eminent Barr. Taiwo Odumosu, commended members for the maturity, discipline, and commitment they demonstrated throughout the process, noting that despite minor challenges encountered, members conducted themselves in a manner that reflected the values and ideals upon which the Club was founded.
Immediate Past President Eminent Otunba Olumide Owoseni
Barr. Odumosu congratulated the newly elected officers and urged them to provide purposeful and inclusive leadership capable of strengthening the unity and growth of the Club.
Among members of the executive council, who will be working with Eminent Paseda are Eminent Barr. Oluwaseun Basorun, who was elected as the Vice President and Eminent Ariyo Abass, who won the General Secretary position.
Others are Eminent Ganiu Omotoso for the office of the Assistant General Secretary, Eminent Akinsanya Olaseni as Financial Secretary, Eminent Muyiwa Jayesimi as the Treasurer, Eminent Barrister Yomi Akodu as the Public Relations Officer and Eminent Segun Fetuga, who won the position of the Social Secetary.
Eminent Odumosu admonished the incoming administration to ensure that no member is left behind in the affairs of the Club, and to place the welfare of members at the forefront of its programmes and policies in order to continue to enhance the beautiful etiquette of the almost 20 years Club.
The Eminent Gents International Club was established in 2006 as a group saddled with the responsibility of catering for the less privileged, the needy and the have-nots of the society. The Club strongly believes in giving back to the society, with an overriding philosophy, which revolves around pooling skills, resources and experience to create a sustainable change, and improve the lives of those in need.
New Vice President Eminent Barrister Oluwaseun Bashorun
Consequently, the Club has prioritise engagements in targeted initiatives aimed at addressing critical issues affecting the needy cutting across food, heathcare, shelter, clothing and not forgetting empowerment.
In his acceptance speech, Eminent Paseda pledged to live up to expectations, and ensure that the founding principles of the Club is not derailed.
He congratulated his co-executive council members, urging everyone to give their best performance to ensure the success of the administration in particular, and the Club in general.
A distinguished Nigerian based in London, England, Paseda is the Chief Executive Officer, Focus on Disabilities (FOD) Foundation, a not for profit organization that is saddled with the responsibility of seeing to the wellbeing of those living with disabilities. The organization, founded in 2010, has supervised the provision of sundry humanitarian assistance to people living with disabilities across Nigeria and the African continent with special mention to England, his place of residence.
He is a stern believer in the lifting of the downtrodden in the society, and has been awarded the Humanitarian award by Ceebee Gold Foundation.
A recipient of the BEFFTA Award, Africa achiever Award, Scotland among many others, Paseda has since 2012 been distributing movement enhancing materials to the disabled across the continent. Some of these distributions include 60 wheel chairs and disability aids in Kano and Kaduna states in 2012; distribution of clutches, wheel chairs, food items among other things in Ogun state in March and September 2013. Ever since, the selfless giver has not looked back in supporting the less privileged with his resources. He runs an all-expense paid home for people living with disabilities in Odogbolu, Ogun State
Paseda’s humanitarian outreach stretches across Africa and the UK where he is reputed to have touched a lot of lives.
A new chapter in clinical leadership has commenced at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abeokuta, with the appointment of renowned Consultant Nephrologist, Dr. Olusola Adebisi, as the institution’s new Head of Clinical Services (HCS). He officially resumes duty today, Monday, June 15, 2026, following the expiration of the tenure of his predecessor, Dr. A.S. Adediran, whose stewardship contributed significantly to the advancement of clinical services within the tertiary healthcare institution.
The appointment, approved by the 7th Board of Management at its 6th Extraordinary Meeting held on June 8, 2026, is hailed as a strategic move that places one of the hospital’s most experienced clinicians and respected administrators at the helm of its clinical operations. With a distinguished career spanning renal medicine, healthcare leadership, organized medicine, and community service, Dr. Adebisi brings a wealth of experience and a reputation for excellence to the role.
Until his appointment, Dr. Adebisi served as Head of the Nephrology Unit at FMC Abeokuta, where he earned recognition as one of the leading authorities on kidney-related illnesses within the West African sub-region. A passionate advocate for preventive nephrology, he has spearheaded numerous community sensitization initiatives, including annual World Kidney Day campaigns aimed at promoting early detection and management of kidney disease. He has also mentored and supervised generations of resident doctors, medical officers, and specialized nephrology nurses, helping to sustain a culture of clinical excellence.
His leadership credentials extend beyond clinical practice. Dr. Adebisi previously served as Chairman of the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN), FMC Abeokuta Chapter, where he was instrumental in fostering professional harmony and academic advancement among consultants. He currently serves as Faculty Treasurer of the West African College of Physicians (WACP), a role that underscores his financial discipline, organizational trust, and administrative competence. His earlier engagements with the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) and the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) further enriched his understanding of Nigeria’s healthcare landscape.
Beyond medicine, Dr. Adebisi is actively involved in civic and community development. He currently serves as President of the Rotary Club in the Oke-Ona Egba District, championing humanitarian, maternal health, and community empowerment initiatives. He is also the Social Secretary of the Abeokuta Sports Club, contributing to social cohesion and cultural development within Ogun State.
A devout Christian and committed family man, Dr. Adebisi is widely respected for a leadership style rooted in integrity, compassion, and service. As Head of Clinical Services, he is expected to focus on strengthening patient-centred care, enhancing clinical research and residency training, improving interdepartmental collaboration, and promoting institutional harmony across all clinical cadres.
Speaking on his vision for the office, Dr. Adebisi emphasized the need for innovation, professionalism, and teamwork in healthcare delivery. “Our objective remains clear: to deliver compassionate, world-class, and accessible healthcare to our immediate community and beyond, fueled by clinical innovation, integrity, and absolute dedication to human life,” he said.
With his assumption of office today, stakeholders within and outside FMC Abeokuta express optimism that his blend of clinical expertise, administrative experience, and people-centred leadership will further strengthen the institution’s position as a leading centre of excellence in healthcare delivery, training, and research.
Personality in Focus
June 12: Tinubu Confers National Honours on Kolade-Otitoju, Dasuki, Okei-Odumakin, Others
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conferred national honours on several prominent pro-democracy activists, journalists, civil society leaders, and retired military officers in recognition of their contributions to Nigeria’s democratic struggle and the historic June 12 movement.
The announcement was made during the President’s nationwide Democracy Day broadcast commemorating Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance.
According to President Tinubu, the awards are intended to immortalize the sacrifices of individuals who endured persecution, imprisonment, solitary confinement, harassment, and exile during the fight against military dictatorship and the struggle to actualize the June 12, 1993 presidential election mandate.
Tinubu Honours Democracy Heroes
The President emphasized that the honourees played critical roles in defending democratic values and laying the foundation for the civilian rule Nigeria enjoys today.
Among those recognized are veteran journalists, media executives, civil rights advocates, and leaders of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), whose resistance to military rule helped shape the nation’s democratic journey.
Media and Civil Society Leaders Recognised
Notable recipients in the media and civil society category include:
* Gbemiga Ogunleye, former Provost of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ)
* Babajide Kolade-Otitoju, Director of News at TVC News and veteran journalist
* Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin, renowned human rights campaigner
* Chief Ayo Opadokun, NADECO chieftain
* Sam Omatseye
* Oladele Alake
* Olatunji Bello
* Louis Odion
* Tunde Fagbenle
* Richard Akinnola
* Debo Adeniran
The recognition highlights the pivotal role played by the media and civil society organizations in resisting authoritarian rule and advocating for democratic governance.
Retired Military Officers Honoured for Opposing Dictatorship
In what observers have described as a historic and groundbreaking move, President Tinubu also created a special category to honour military officers who worked from within the armed forces to challenge authoritarian rule and support democratic ideals.
The honoured retired officers include:
* Colonel Sambo Dasuki (retd)
* Colonel Lawan Gwadabe (retd)
* Brigadier Yahaya Abubakar, the Etsu Nupe
* Major General Ishola Williams (retd)
* Major General M.A. Garba
* Brigadier General Lawal Jaafaru Isa
The President noted that these officers risked their careers, personal freedom, and lives in pursuit of democratic governance during one of Nigeria’s most turbulent political periods.
Celebrating 27 Years of Democracy
The national honours ceremony forms part of activities marking Democracy Day, observed annually on June 12 in remembrance of the 1993 presidential election widely regarded as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history.
President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preserving democratic institutions, protecting civil liberties, and ensuring that the sacrifices of June 12 heroes remain permanently etched in Nigeria’s national memory.
The honours have been widely viewed as a significant step toward acknowledging the contributions of individuals and groups whose courage and resilience helped restore democratic rule and strengthen Nigeria’s democratic foundations.
