April 2025 | Page 40 of 45

The Paris Connection: President Tinubu’s Ties to Billionaire Gilbert Chagoury and the Debate Over Power, Privilege, And Public Funds

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago010 mins

Since assuming office, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has traveled more to France than to any other country in the world. On the surface, these visits may appear harmless — just a head of state taking a break or handling diplomatic engagements. But a closer look reveals a web of relationships, business interests, and billion-dollar deals that paint a more complex and troubling picture. A Long Love Affair with France President Tinubu’s trips to France did not begin with his presidency. Long before he moved into Aso Rock, he was a regular visitor to Paris. Back then, it was a private matter — a man choosing where to relax, unwind, or perhaps escape public scrutiny. But things have changed. Today, Tinubu is no longer a private citizen. He is the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. And every flight, every luxury stay, every security detail, is now funded by taxpayers — the same taxpayers struggling to afford basic necessities. In just two years in office, President Tinubu has made at least five publicly known trips to France. Four of these visits were personal or unofficial, and only one was an official state visit. No other country has received this level of attention or frequency. Why France? The answer might lie not just in comfort or preference — but in friendship. Meet Gilbert Chagoury: The Billionaire in the Castle At the center of this story is Gilbert Chagoury, a Lebanese-Nigerian tycoon with deep roots in Nigeria’s economy and politics. His story is as fascinating as it is controversial. Born to Lebanese immigrants who arrived in Nigeria in the early 1900s, Chagoury built a business empire that spans construction, real estate, hospitality, and more. He is the owner of HiTech Construction, the company recently awarded the massive Lagos-Calabar coastal highway contract worth $13 billion. He also owns ITB Nigeria, which just received another $700 million contract to renovate Lagos ports. In addition to this, Chagoury owns Eko Atlantic, the ultra-expensive city built on reclaimed land in Lagos, and Eko Hotel & Suites, one of the most prestigious hotels in Nigeria. But today, Gilbert Chagoury doesn’t live in Nigeria. He has retired from active business and now lives in a luxurious castle in Paris, far from the hustle of Lagos. His children manage his businesses from Nigeria, while he enjoys the fruits of his decades-long empire in Europe. And who visits him regularly in that castle? According to multiple reports — President Tinubu. A Friendship Forged in Power Tinubu and Chagoury have been close friends for over 30 years. Their relationship goes beyond casual visits and old-time loyalty. They are business allies. Since Tinubu became president, Chagoury’s companies have received a windfall of government contracts, most of them without open bidding or competitive tenders. That’s not just business — that’s influence. Leaked documents have also shown that Seyi Tinubu, the president’s son, has deep business ties with the Chagoury family. He co-owns an offshore company with Roland Chagoury, Gilbert’s son, and sits on the board of CDK Industries, another Chagoury-controlled business. These connections, while not illegal on the surface, raise serious questions about transparency, fairness, and the ethics of governance. The Billionaire’s Empire Expands — Again For years, Eko Atlantic City was seen as an overpriced and underutilized project. Most Nigerian companies avoided it due to its high cost and exclusivity. Now, that has changed dramatically. Major corporations are flocking to buy land and build offices in Eko Atlantic. MTN Nigeria recently spent over ₦10 billion to acquire land for its new headquarters. First Bank is constructing its own new head office there as well. More companies are lining up, eager to gain favor with the man whose influence is clearly rising — Gilbert Chagoury. Why the sudden rush? Business owners are reading the political climate. They see where the power lies, and they are aligning with it. It’s not about demand or value — it’s about proximity to influence. State Capture: When Private Interests Control Public Power What we’re witnessing in Nigeria may not just be favoritism or cronyism. It may be something deeper — something more dangerous. It’s called state capture — a form of systemic corruption in which private individuals or groups use their relationships with public officials to shape policies, secure government deals, and dominate entire sectors of the economy to their advantage. In our case, it appears that a significant portion of national decision-making — including infrastructure planning, urban development, and financial policy — is being shaped not just in Aso Rock, but in a farmhouse in Paris, where two old friends discuss matters behind closed doors. This raises serious concerns: The Cost to the People While contracts worth billions of dollars are handed out to connected businesses, ordinary Nigerians continue to suffer. Inflation is rising. Food prices are climbing. The Naira is struggling. Unemployment remains high. And yet, public funds are being channeled toward projects that benefit a select few — often without transparency or accountability. Worse still, the youth — the largest demographic in Nigeria — see all this. They are watching. They are asking questions. And many are losing hope. Final Thoughts: Who Truly Holds the Power? President Tinubu’s repeated trips to France may seem trivial to some. But they are symbolic of a deeper reality — one where personal friendships appear to carry more weight than public interest. In a democracy, leaders are supposed to serve all citizens equally. They are meant to be accountable to the people, not to private partners or foreign-based power brokers. But today, it feels like Nigeria is being governed not just from Abuja, but from Paris — in the quiet corners of a castle, where billion-dollar decisions are made far from public scrutiny. We can only hope that this changes. That transparency returns. That leadership puts the people first again. Until then, we must stay vigilant, informed, and united in asking the most important question of all: Who really governs Nigeria — the people, or the privileged…

Another year brings another round of record-breaking achievements for the world’s billionaire elite

Another Year Brings Another Round of Record Breaking Achievements For The World’s Billionaires Elite

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago02 mins

Forbes has been tracking the world’s billionaires since 1987, when we uncovered just 140 of them. It took 20 years to cross the 1,000 mark, and by 2017, the count had doubled to 2,000. Fast forward to 2025, and we’ve hit another historic milestone: 3,028 billionaires made this year’s list—247 more than last year. Not only is the billionaire club growing, but its members are wealthier than ever, with a combined net worth of $16.1 trillion, up nearly $2 trillion from 2024. The U.S. leads the pack with a record 902 billionaires, followed by China (516, including Hong Kong) and India (205). Our calculations are based on stock prices and exchange rates as of March 7, 2025. For the most up-to-date net worths, visit our real-time billionaires ranking. Check the full list of the billionaires: https://www.forbes.com/billionaires/?utm_campaign=socialflowForbesMainFB&utm_source=ForbesMainFacebook&utm_medium=social&fbclid=IwY2xjawJeszpleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHuzNovaYC7M_IzxsFIJ2qWoMse09flWiIVtMyvqMEGVmBIGHT3jh_tcsnJmc_aem_vxbgtON0Mom-rPpOQbDeHw

Appreciation Message from Brigadier General Ismaila Abdullahi (Rtd)

No One is Safe: Even Generals Must Pay Bandits for Freedom

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago03 mins

Appreciation Message from Brigadier General Ismaila Abdullahi (Rtd)Dated: 4th April 2025 On behalf of Brigadier General M.I. Tsiga, friends, colleagues, and associates, I, Brigadier General Ismaila Abdullahi (Rtd), wish to express our deepest gratitude to all who stood by us during a most distressing period—the abduction and eventual release of General M.I. Tsiga. General Tsiga was forcibly taken from his residence in Tsiga Town, Bakori LGA, Katsina State, on the 5th of February 2025. From the moment we received the shocking news, Major General L.B. Bunza and I began collaborating closely to ensure his safe return. On the 9th of February 2025, we established a WhatsApp platform simply named “TSIGA” to keep the public informed and to mobilize support for the cause. When the abductors eventually demanded a ransom of ₦400,000,000, we made the difficult decision to appeal for donations through the platform. The response was nothing short of extraordinary. Over 300 patriotic Nigerians comprising retired and serving military officers, academics, ambassadors, businesspeople, and civilians from every walk of liferallied together in solidarity. To ensure full transparency and accountability, we agreed that all donations should be sent directly to General Tsiga’s Unity Bank account, which was promptly shared by his son, Kamal. Initially, I provided updates on incoming donations, but due to valid security concerns raised by some members, we halted public updates while maintaining accurate internal records. Between 22nd February and 15th March 2025, the generous outpouring of support reinforced one powerful truth: Together, we can. On behalf of General Tsiga and his family, I thank each and every one of you for your financial, moral, and spiritual support. Your compassion and unity were instrumental in securing his safe release. As I write this, on 4th April 2025, I feel a profound sense of fulfillment. Our collective effort has achieved its goal—General M.I. Tsiga is free. Thank you all. May God bless and protect you and your families. Signed:Brigadier General Ismaila Abdullahi (Rtd)4 April 2025

Don’t Expect Army, Police, Others To Protect All Of You; Mobilise To Defend Yourselves Against Terrorists –DSS Chief Tells Nigerians

DSS Chief Urges Nigerians Don’t Rely Solely on Army Police and Others for Protection

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago01 mins

Don’t Expect Army, Police, Others To Protect All Of You; Mobilise To Defend Yourselves Against Terrorists –DSS Chief Tells NigeriansHe referenced past incidents in Bauchi State, where local communities successfully fought off Boko Haram insurgents without waiting for security forces. The Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, has stated that Nigerians must take responsibility for their own security, as the military, police, and intelligence agencies do not have the capacity to protect every community from terrorist attacks nationwide. Ajayi made the remarks during a public engagement, which Symfoni broadcasted.

Panic on Lagos Waterways as LagFerry Boat Catches Fire

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago03 mins

Chaos erupted Thursday morning on the Lagos waterways when a LagFerry vessel named “Igbega Eko” suddenly exploded and caught fire en route to Victoria Island. The incident left several passengers injured as they scrambled to escape the flames. The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) confirmed the fire and assured the public that its personnel were promptly deployed to prevent the situation from escalating. “There was a loud bang, and the boat was quickly engulfed in flames. The exact cause is still unknown, but investigations are ongoing,” a NIWA official told Tribune Online. The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) also confirmed the incident and stated that the cause of the fire is under investigation. According to a statement from LASWA’s Public Affairs Unit, four passengers sustained minor injuries and are currently receiving medical care. The statement read:“The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) confirms a fire incident involving the LagFerry vessel ‘Igbega Eko,’ which occurred around 6:45 AM at the Ipakodo Ferry Terminal in Ikorodu while en route to Victoria Island.” “Following a distress call, LASWA’s emergency response team quickly mobilized to the scene, coordinating efforts with LagFerry, boat operators, and other first responders to contain the situation.” “Thankfully, all passengers and crew members were safely evacuated. Four passengers sustained minor injuries and are currently receiving treatment.” “A detailed investigation is underway in collaboration with LagFerry and other relevant agencies to determine the cause and to improve safety measures across Lagos waterways.” “LASWA assures the public that all safety protocols remain in place, and ferry operations continue as scheduled. We urge all passengers to stay calm and follow safety guidelines when using water transport.”

Emirship Dispute: Police Call Emir Sanusi II for Questioning

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago02 mins

The Nigeria Police Headquarters has summoned the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, for questioning regarding an incident that took place during the Eid festival in Kano. The police, alongside other sister security agencies in the state, had earlier cancelled all durbar activities, particularly equestrian procession, in the state, citing security reasons. However, while the emir was marching to attend prayer at Kofar Mata Eid Ground on March 30, a member of the vigilante protecting the emir was stabbed to death, while scores were injured. Following the incident, insiders told this newspaper that the Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun had earlier directed the state commissioner of police to arrest the emir. According to sources, the CP had explained to the IGP that the incident had nothing to do with violation of durbar ban, and that the emir did not use horses to visit the Government House as the tradition provides. Perhaps dissatisfied with the CP’s explanation, the IGP directed the Force Intelligence Department to take over the case file and invite the emir to Abuja for questioning. Palace sources however told DAILY NIGERIAN that the emir has yet to formally receive the letter.

Passengers Narrowly Escape Death as BRT Bus Catches Fire in Lagos

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago02 mins

The driver and conductor of a BRT bus have fled for their lives, abandoning passengers to their fate, as a BRT bus caught fire at Maryland, Lagos State, on Saturday morning.smileyOur correspondent, who was at the scene of the incident, said that the vehicle departed from Ikorodu en route to CMS when the sad incident occurred. As of the time this report was filed, emergency responders, including officers of the Nigeria Police Force, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), fire services, and local security personnel, arrived at the scene to contain the blaze. Firefighters at the scene.One of the passengers on the bus told our correspondent the fire started as smoke from the driver’s side. According to her, the passengers initially thought the smoke emanated from other buses; however, the slight smoke soon worsened, immediately sending them into panic mode. “As soon as we saw that the smoke grew bigger, we immediately rushed off the bus before the fire ignited”, she said, adding that none of the passengers sustained any injury. She added that the driver fled the scene immediately after the fire started. “The driver and the conductor ran away. They didn’t even wait to see what would happen to us. “Definitely, they knew what happened. They knew the bus was bad before putting it on the road and risking our lives,” she alleged.

A Nigerian man has told the BBC how he managed to survive an attack on his hunting party that left 16 of his companions dead, and shocked the nation. The group of young men, mostly in their 20s, was travelling in the back of a truck when they were stopped by vigilantes. "They asked us to alight from the vehicle and without saying much, one of them hit our leader on the shoulder with an axe," Abubakar Shehu, 20, told BBC Pidgin. "Then they started beating us. I was able to dodge a couple of punches and tackles and ran as far as I could. "I fell into a ditch, got up and was able to hide in an unused property for many hours before coming out around 10pm," he said. While hiding, he could hear the shouts and cries of his friends as they were being beaten and then burnt to death. "I could hear all the noise from what has happening and I was scared for my life. Thankfully no-one saw me," Mr Shehu said. He then returned to the road, where he was able to stop a truck and the driver picked him up and took him to safety. Last week's gruesome attack on the group from northern Nigeria heightened tensions across the country. They had spent several weeks travelling in the south hunting wild animals to sell, and were going home to celebrate Eid. Amnesty International and other rights groups have called on the authorities to make sure justice is served. President Bola Tinubu also condemned the killings, saying that Nigerians had the right to move freely anywhere in the country. He ordered security agencies to find the killers, adding that "jungle justice" had no place in the country. Police say they have arrested 14 people in relation to the case and many across the country will be closely following to see how the case pans out. Relations between northern and southern Nigerians are fraught following years of clashes between northern animal herders and southern farmers over access to water and grazing land, which have left thousands dead. Along with the lack of security across Nigeria, this is one of the reasons why residents of Uromi town in Edo state, and many others, have set up vigilante groups. The hunters from the northern Kano state were armed with traditional rifles but they say they showed licences for these weapons when they were stopped by the vigilantes. For the family of the victims in Toronkawa village, the cries and mourning continue more than a week after the horrific incident. Adama Ali, the mother of one of the victims, is devastated. "I kept calling his phone but no-one was picking up," she said, tears rolling down her cheeks. Earlier this week, Edo state governor Monday Okpebholo visited his Kano counterpart to try and ease tensions. He also paid his condolences to the victims' families and promised them compensation. Having lost so many of its young men, the village is still in mourning as everyone knows the victims. Their families houses are full of guests paying their condolences. The chairman of the villages' hunters association, Mustapha Usman, said nothing would please them more than seeing justice served. Mr Shehu agrees. "I thank God for sparing my life and bringing me back home and I pray for those that lost their lives," he said.

How I Survived Uromi Attack That Killed My 16 Friends

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago06 mins

A Nigerian man has told the BBC how he managed to survive an attack on his hunting party that left 16 of his companions dead, and shocked the nation. The group of young men, mostly in their 20s, was travelling in the back of a truck when they were stopped by vigilantes. “They asked us to alight from the vehicle and without saying much, one of them hit our leader on the shoulder with an axe,” Abubakar Shehu, 20, told BBC Pidgin. “Then they started beating us. I was able to dodge a couple of punches and tackles and ran as far as I could. “I fell into a ditch, got up and was able to hide in an unused property for many hours before coming out around 10pm,” he said. While hiding, he could hear the shouts and cries of his friends as they were being beaten and then burnt to death. “I could hear all the noise from what has happening and I was scared for my life. Thankfully no-one saw me,” Mr Shehu said. He then returned to the road, where he was able to stop a truck and the driver picked him up and took him to safety. Last week’s gruesome attack on the group from northern Nigeria heightened tensions across the country. They had spent several weeks travelling in the south hunting wild animals to sell, and were going home to celebrate Eid. Amnesty International and other rights groups have called on the authorities to make sure justice is served. President Bola Tinubu also condemned the killings, saying that Nigerians had the right to move freely anywhere in the country. He ordered security agencies to find the killers, adding that “jungle justice” had no place in the country. Police say they have arrested 14 people in relation to the case and many across the country will be closely following to see how the case pans out. Relations between northern and southern Nigerians are fraught following years of clashes between northern animal herders and southern farmers over access to water and grazing land, which have left thousands dead. Along with the lack of security across Nigeria, this is one of the reasons why residents of Uromi town in Edo state, and many others, have set up vigilante groups. The hunters from the northern Kano state were armed with traditional rifles but they say they showed licences for these weapons when they were stopped by the vigilantes. For the family of the victims in Toronkawa village, the cries and mourning continue more than a week after the horrific incident. Adama Ali, the mother of one of the victims, is devastated. “I kept calling his phone but no-one was picking up,” she said, tears rolling down her cheeks. Earlier this week, Edo state governor Monday Okpebholo visited his Kano counterpart to try and ease tensions. He also paid his condolences to the victims’ families and promised them compensation. Having lost so many of its young men, the village is still in mourning as everyone knows the victims. Their families houses are full of guests paying their condolences. The chairman of the villages’ hunters association, Mustapha Usman, said nothing would please them more than seeing justice served. Mr Shehu agrees. “I thank God for sparing my life and bringing me back home and I pray for those that lost their lives,” he said.