Yes, indeed, the late Muhammadu Buhari was perhaps the best politician of the Fourth Republic. He knew what he was doing when he spoke of Sharia in Sokoto, which caused him problems with the South and Northern Christians. But that solidified his Northern Muslim base and assured him of a solid 12 million votes. His kare jini, biri jini mantra further caused more schisms that made him the ultimate “champion” at home to be projected and defended at all costs.

But perhaps the single most incredible view of himself that he deliberately courted and promoted, which made him “vulnerable” and “fragile” and to be worked for, was the impression he gave of not being a politician. That, in itself, was a masterstroke.

You see, the average Nigerian has a negative perception of politicians. A politician is seen as a rogue, a liar, a cheat — someone who never keeps a promise, whose word is not his bond, and who puts himself first before country and everyone else; hence, not to be trusted.

And so Buhari extricated himself from that definition because he made it known that he was not a politician. It enhanced his image as that of a serious man of integrity. And since he was not one of them politicians, therefore, he must be trustworthy. But that narrative was expanded by the majority of his base to cover Nigerians. He was seen as the only "upright man of integrity" in whose hands Nigeria's wealth must be safe. And the price of that was being poor!

And to underline his theory of lack of funds, he told us that he had to borrow money from his bankers to buy the forms for the 2015 election. No one questioned the bank’s interest in purchasing tickets for politicians, or how they would benefit from such “investments”. This act, of course, was condemned by many right-thinking Nigerians, including Femi Falana, SAN, who said: “That action of taking a bank loan is indefensible. I have condemned it, and political parties should take action against it. If you are obtaining loans for forms, what about elections? Elections cost billions in Nigeria, and that should be discouraged.” But trust the times — he was roundly insulted by a horde of Buharideens for airing his views. But Falana should not have worried because that problem was solvable.

And so money was donated to him — money that no one knew how much, except him, because it was sent into his account. To give people confidence, he even told donors that he was the only signatory. This put their minds at rest — that the money was in safe hands. To his base, he did not need to account or declare how much it was to anyone; of course, and he owed no one any explanation.

Ironically, Buhari later condemned politicians who collect bank loans for political purposes as people who would have to source funds from the government to pay back the loans.

Anyway, people eagerly and proudly worked for Buhari’s emergence in 2015. It was not out of place to hear people making statements like, “Buhari is not a politician”, and so they sacrificed their time and resources to campaign for him, since he was thought to be different. It also allowed him to talk as he wanted; any untoward statements were laughed away with the refrain, “You know General is not a politician.”

No politician in Nigeria has positioned himself to be carried shoulder-high to cross the tape and win like him. It was no small political manoeuvre.

The way he had the nation in 2015, where he was seen generally as a man the country was waiting for to come and clean the Augean Stable, Buhari’s party could have set Nigeria on the path to moral rebirth, inspiring good governance in the process. There would not have been the need to fight Senator Bukola Saraki’s election as Senate President because of corruption allegations, because Buhari could have insisted that no one with a suspicious or questionable past would be allowed to contest the election. But once you frolicked with him, accepted his contributions and allowed him to contest, you have lost the moral right to deny him becoming whatever he would become in the Chamber. If he was qualified to contest the election for a senatorial seat, he was qualified to contest for the office of the Senate President.

Likewise, Buhari could have insisted on not allowing the Kano State Governor, who was facing allegations of receiving dollar bribes from a contractor, to recontest in 2019 on the platform of his party, but he didn't.

Yet the man had an immense following. Twelve million solid base of voters. Diehards who ask no questions. Nor motives: a politician’s delight, because any politician craves such unquestioning assets. But now the question on many lips is: who will inherit those 12 million voters? People can only hazard guesses, but we may not see that inheritor because the factors that shaped Buhari are no longer there. No individual has those factors working for them in the North.

Right now, only Peter Obi in the South has cultivated such a persona of honesty — like Buhari — and boasts of some vociferous following among young Nigerians who, like Buharideens, will insult the living daylights out of anybody who has the temerity to criticise.

However, beyond all we have said so far in this trilogy, our leaders must gear up and provide the needed services to the nation. The National Hospital in Abuja will remain in the glory of the late General Sani Abacha. Unconfirmed reports had it that his wife, Maryam, went to a hospital in Germany that specialised in women and children’s issues and, on return, informed the late dark-goggles-wearing dictator, who dispatched experts to go and study the German facility, which impressed his wife, from structure to operation.

Irrespective of the reports, the hospital — initially named the National Hospital for Women and Children — was founded under the Family Support Programme initiative, a pet project of his wife, and formally established by Decree 36 of 1999. The hospital was commissioned on 22 May 1999 by then Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, and renamed as the National Hospital by President Olusegun Obasanjo’s government on 10 May 2000.

The beauty of it was that all state governments, under the Family Support Programme chaired by military administrators’ wives, built family support hospitals which specialised in maternity and paediatric matters. The plan was to replicate this in all the nation’s 774 local government areas.

You see, that was a significant step towards self-dependence in the health sector. Imagine the race for education in various health courses that would have ensued, the related research institutions that could have sprung up, and the employment opportunities that would have been opened up. Nigeria would have been a centre for health care excellence by now. And Nigerian leaders would have stopped leaving the country as vegetables, returning as cargo in the belly of foreign aeroplanes. And our prayer, "May our subsequent leaders die at home," would not have arisen in the first place.

Concluded

Data from the Debt Management Office (DMO) for Q1 2025 indicates that Nigeria’s total public debt rose to N149.39 trillion as of March 31, marking a year-on-year increase of N27.72 trillion or 22.8 per cent when compared to the N121.67 trillion recorded in the corresponding period of 2024.

The data also indicates a quarter-on-quarter increase of N4.72 trillion or 3.3 per cent from N144.67 trillion as of Dec. 31, 2024.

This consistent upward trajectory in Nigeria’s debt stock reflects both fresh borrowings and the impact of a depreciating exchange rate on external debt obligations.

The federal and state governments owe a combination of domestic and foreign debts; domestic debt is made up of FGN securities and treasury bills.

Nigeria owes countries like China, France, Germany, and Japan (bilateral debts) and multilateral institutions like the World Bank, Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), and the African Development Bank (AfDB).

Latest data from the DMO shows that Nigeria has a total external debt of 45.9 billion dollars.

The external loans come from a diverse group of lenders and are categorised by the DMO; the first are multilateral lenders, which include the IMF, World Bank, and AfDB.

Nigeria owes the IMF 406 million dollars as of March, but has since paid down the entire loan, according to a statement by the Federal Government in May.

However, the country owes the World Bank 18.3 billion dollars, up from 17.8 billion dollars as of December 2025.

The next group of creditors is bilateral–mostly foreign countries that extend loans to Nigeria.

The biggest amongst them is China, with a total loan balance of 5.16 billion dollars out of the total external bilateral loans of six billion dollars.

France is second with 609 million dollars in loans.

There is also a group of commercial lenders, represented largely by Eurobonds, a dollar-denominated bond floated by the Federal Government.

Nigeria’s Eurobond remained at 17.32 billion between December 2024 and March 2025.

A summary of the country’s external debt obligation shows that it owes multilateral lenders 22.5 billion dollars, bilateral Lenders – 6.7 billion dollars and commercial Lenders – 17.32 billion dollars.

Data from the DMO also shows that Nigeria has a total domestic debt of N78.76 trillion at the end of March.

The domestic portfolio is made up of various instruments, namely FGN bonds, Nigerian Treasury Bills, FGN Sukuk, FGN Saving Bonds, FGN Green Bonds and Promissory Notes.

FGN Bonds constitute 79.85 per cent of the total domestic debt, which amounts to N59.8 trillion. This includes both FGN Naira and dollar Bonds.

The second largest domestic creditors are holders of Nigerian Treasury Bills with a total debt of N12.7 trillion.

They constitute 16.96 per cent of the total domestic debt. This is followed by Promissory Notes with a total sum of N1.301 trillion.

FGN Sukuk bonds remained steady at N992.6 billion during the period of December 2024 to March 2025, according to DMO data; the bonds are used to fund infrastructure projects like roads and bridges in the country.

Records show that FGN’s saving bonds come next with a total debt of N82.6 billion in March 2025.

Also, FGN Green Bonds constitute the least, with a total debt of N15 billion, and have remained this way since December 2022.

The Senate recently approved President Bola Tinubu’s fresh external borrowing plan of over 21 billion dollars for the 2025–2026 fiscal cycle, paving the way for the full implementation of the 2025 Appropriation Act.

With the country’s debt on a 22.8 per cent year-on-year increase, analysts caution that broader sustainability remains a concern.

Some analysts have also expressed concerns over Federal Government’s fiscal regime, describing the increase in debt servicing from N8 trillion in 2024 to N16 trillion in 2025 as a red flag.

To reduce dependency on borrowing, Nigeria will need to expand non-oil revenues, rein in recurrent spending and deepen structural reforms.

A Development Economist, Prof. Ken Ife, said that adherence to extant fiscal responsibility law would go a long way to moderate government borrowing and reduce Nigeria’s debt profile.

Ife, Lead Consultant on Private Sector Development to the ECOWAS Commission, said that there was lack of transparency and accountability, and inadequate prudence in borrowing for development.

“We need borrowing because we are called underdeveloped countries and developing countries; what it means is that you cannot survive without growing your economy.

“We must grow our economy and that means that we must borrow to leverage, but there is no room for us to borrow to consume.

“That will deepen exposure to debt and then drive us inexorably into more fiscal deficit,” he said.

According to him, there is nothing wrong with borrowing, but the question is, where do we employ this borrowing?

“Where do we put the money? How do we use the money that we borrow? That is one question that we have not answered.

“It means the borrowing is for consumption, and because it is for consumption, nothing has been produced,” he said.

He urged the Federal Government to strictly implement the fiscal responsibility law which stipulated that government borrowing should be for development.

“When it comes to capital expenditure, the law looks at infrastructure, and that means investing in productive capacity; something that will be capable of repaying the loan.

“Also, the law wants cost-benefit analysis, it also anticipates that when you are going to build infrastructure, you should be considering economic corridors.

“You should be considering industrial corridors, commercial corridors, residential corridors, so that the infrastructure will to be fully utilised,” he said.

A Financial Expert, Prof. Uche Uwaleke, said that the country’s rising debt profile was the direct result of low domestic resource mobilisation.

Uwaleke is the director, Institute of Capital Market Studies, Nasarawa State University, Keffi.

According to him, the weak structure of the economy which unduly relies on revenues tied to the vagaries of the international crude oil market is also responsible for the debt profile.

He said that the growing debt profile may be justified by the huge infrastructure gap in Nigeria.

“Government borrowing in itself is not bad for a developing economy struggling to plug infrastructure gap.

“However, it becomes unsustainable when debt service ratios are very high.

“The implication is huge opportunity cost considering the fact that critical sectors requiring attention such as education and health are starved of funds,” he said.

According to him, the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007 clearly spells out that government borrowing must be for long-term, concessional in nature, and applied to capital projects and human capital development.

He said that tying government loans to self-liquidating projects would ensure sustainability.

“Regrettably, the FRA 2007 has no enforcement provisions; it needs to be amended to make it difficult for any tier of government to borrow for purposes outside of the ones stipulated,” he said.

A former President of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Mr Okechukwu Unegbu, said that the country’s debt profile was very embarrassing.

Unegbu also called for fiscal prudence and effective deployment of earned revenue to reduce the dependence on borrowing.

Policy analysts say Nigeria’s debt predicament has risen to concerning heights; with forecasts suggesting that the nation’s overall debt could reach N187.79 trillion by the end of 2025.

They say there is need for fiscal discipline, economic diversification, improved debt management practices, and adequate financial governance.

Credit NAN

The late General Buhari was a man who, on two occasions, was welcomed into office by Nigerians who dared to hope for a better country. The first was in December 1983, and the second was 32 years later, in 2015. I do not want to include 2019, because it was a defining moment when those Nigerians who were believed to be honest proved themselves wrong. Unlike President Goodluck Jonathan, who had four years earlier told the nation that his ambition was not worth the blood of a single Nigerian and conceded defeat, these self-styled men of integrity held on to power legitimately lost and cared not if Nigerians’ blood was shed in the process. They just didn’t give a damn.

I was ecstatic at Buhari’s ascendancy to power on the two occasions mentioned. In 1983, freshly introduced to—and baptised by—leftist ideas churned out by the then Ahmadu Bello University’s Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences' (FASS) fiery idealists—Wilmot, Bangura, Bala Usman and a host of others—with my mind satiated by Africanist writers like Ngugi wa Thiong’o, Walter Rodney, and Chinua Achebe, among others, to my utopic mind, Buhari’s 1983 foray into governance was a revolution meant to cork the "monumental corruption” being perpetrated - or so I thought.

We now view that period with nostalgia, as there was some decency in the thievery of those thieves compared to the wanton thievery we see today. But then, we celebrated his coming because we thought we would know the kind of sanity restored to Ghana by Flight Lieutenant Jerry Rawlings. We were also enamoured of the nationalistic fervour brought to bear on Burkina Faso (formerly Upper Volta) by the dashing 33-year-old Thomas Sankara after overthrowing the Western lackey, Major Jean-Baptiste Ouédraogo, in a coup d’état organised by Blaise Compaoré.

Naively, we all agreed that some fifth columnists in Buhari’s military government colluded to sabotage him because he was good and they were bad. And so, Nigeria continued limping—or so we thought—because he was not allowed to complete the surgical operation the country needed to run swiftly on both feet.

The late General Sani Abacha can arguably be said to have brought Buhari out of the shell he sulkily retired into after his release from a three-year house arrest, and unintentionally launched him on his political sojourn through the instrument of the Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF). The PTF under him, despite accusations in some quarters of financial impropriety, undertook many laudable projects across various sectors. This prompted many of us to say, “He did those things not as a president; what if he were president?” We were motivated to support his political aspirations to the hilt.

However, due to his efforts to combat corruption during his brief tenure as military Head of State, many people—including civil servants and shady businessmen—did not want his return. Forget the issue of the 53 suitcases saga during the currency change at that time; it did not tarnish his image. When he contested in 2003, I recall a federal permanent secretary telling me that people like him would not allow Buhari to become president. He told me, “Nigeria can only be righted by Buhari, but people like me will never allow him to be president.”

That was the prevailing thought everywhere, and that was what made the masses root for him. They believed he would strip the looters to the skin, return the pillaged goods to the treasury, establish equity and justice in the land, use funds judiciously to improve their lot, and make Nigeria great again.

I think I shared in that belief. On the day of his swearing-in in 2015, I had the feeling kids felt on Eid days: strutting in new attire and looking at the big ram about to be slaughtered by their father. We used to have a WhatsApp group, Instant News Sharing (INS), founded by Ibrahim Sheme, a veteran journalist, and I mentioned this feeling there. Some opposed to Buhari's emergence were not happy that we were euphoric. Their "leader", Emma Bello—another veteran, if ever there was one—castigated me, even accusing me of blasphemy. Luckily, he was not in a position to issue a fatwa; otherwise, I may not be here writing this testimony!

But why wouldn’t I be excited? I was then a special adviser to a minister who Edwin Clarke assured of a return if Jonathan won, meaning I would also return. Yet, I worked for the emergence of Buhari, believing Nigeria had descended so low that Buhari’s puritanism was needed to salvage what was remaining of a country hurtling towards self-destruction. I sacrificed my comfort for Nigeria—or so I thought.

I was not the only one with butterflies in the belly. Nigerians can still recall how many hopeful countrymen started a marathon trekking fad of hundreds of kilometres from one far corner of the country to another - to show their optimism in the great Nigeria that Buhari's presidency was going to birth.

I, like millions around the country, saw in him a man of conscience who would govern with empathy, as a father to a beleaguered nation and as a leader who would lay the foundation for our political and economic development. In this, I thought he would gather the best hands irrespective of their political affiliations, religious leanings, or ethnic toga—especially when he declared: “I belong to everybody and I belong to no one.” And Nigerians would have accepted that from him, having voted for him across all the divides.

He could have changed the way Nigeria conducted politics, especially in terms of party funding. The way people willingly donated to his campaign, he could have encouraged Nigerians to own their political parties by donating for their sustenance, rather than continuing the negative method whereby governments at various levels finance them. And in 2015, it would have stood.

He could have stopped being fed with billions of naira since he was collecting salaries and other emoluments. The feeding budget looks as though the president consumes an elephant per meal. And all governors could have followed suit. In 2015, that is. From that year, he could have put a stop to the practice of profligacy in which governments at the federal and state levels spend billions of naira yearly buying vehicles from Germany and Japan, thereby keeping their businesses afloat and their economies strong, while destroying our local manufacturing capabilities and weakening our economy.

In 2015, he could have declared that no public servant who sends their children abroad for studies or to private schools qualifies to oversee government ministries, departments, or agencies responsible for public education. He could have made Nigeria healthier by building world-class hospitals.

When some people claim that his hands were tied because he had “no helpers”, they refuse to recognise that he was responsible for appointing his ministers and that the buck stops at his desk. Six months after the inauguration, when the list of his ministerial nominees was released, we were shocked to the marrow at the calibre of his nominees. And one lost hope further when he retained Godwin Emefiele at the CBN, despite accusing the CBN governor during campaigns of honouring instructions written on “bread (paper) labels”.

It wasn’t true that Buhari was not a politician. He was perhaps a man who played politicians at their own game and ran rings around them. General TY Danjuma once said Buhari was a soldier’s soldier. I dare say he was a politician’s politician. He was possibly the best politician of the Fourth Republic for the following reasons.

To be continued...

I have recently read several articles about the troubling trend of political recycling in Nigeria. Each piece offered facts, figures, and familiar outrage. But I thought it was time to put it into perspective—not just as a policy failure, but as a quiet collapse of accountability disguised as continuity.

A culture of political recycling is quietly undermining Nigeria’s democracy. After years in executive office, many politicians seamlessly move into legislative roles, not to advance new ideas, but to remain protected, insulated, and in control. The Senate, rather than serving as a center for oversight and reform, increasingly functions as a retirement enclave for the powerful.

What’s even more troubling is what they do—or, more accurately, what they don’t do—once they arrive.

Important bills that could shift the balance toward accountability continue to stall. Proposals to remove immunity from prosecution while in office, to investigate unexplained wealth, to protect whistleblowers, to punish electoral offenses, and to fast-track corruption cases remain in legislative limbo. Not because the laws are flawed, but because their success would threaten the comfort of the very people who must pass them.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan recently gave Nigerians a rare glimpse behind the curtain. She spoke publicly about the pressure legislators face to extort government agencies, demanding cash or job slots in exchange for approving budgets. She detailed how committee positions often come with informal quotas: bring in money or risk being sidelined. These are not whispers or speculation. These are firsthand accounts from someone on the inside, describing a legislature that not only tolerates corruption but is structured to extract it.

Her testimony should have sparked an immediate investigation. It should have mobilised agencies like the EFCC and ICPC into swift action. Instead, it was met with a familiar silence. That silence is a symptom of something deeper—an unwillingness to hold power accountable when it turns inward.

Now compare that to how other democracies handle misconduct within their ranks.

In the United States, Senator Bob Menendez is currently under indictment for allegedly accepting bribes in the form of gold bars, cash, and favors from foreign agents. He lost his committee chairmanship and faces bipartisan calls to resign. Congressman George Santos was expelled from the U.S. House in 2023 after investigations revealed he had lied extensively about his biography and misused campaign funds for personal purchases. James Traficant was expelled after being convicted of bribery. Chris Collins and Duncan Hunter resigned and were prosecuted for insider trading and campaign finance violations. These weren’t partisan moves. They were institutional responses to serious breaches.

The point isn’t that one country is morally superior. The point is what happens when misconduct is exposed. In the U.S., systems respond. In Nigeria, systems retreat.

Some now argue Nigeria needs a brand-new constitution to fix these failures. But replacing the entire structure won’t matter if those in power still refuse to enforce basic rules. We don’t need a new blueprint—we need the courage to follow the one we already have.

What’s missing is action. What’s needed is consequence.

Until lawmakers begin to face real repercussions for unethical behavior, until agencies stop hesitating when power is involved, and until reform bills stop dying in silence, Nigeria’s legislature will remain a place where leadership is mistaken for immunity—and where laws are written not to serve the public, but to shield the privileged.

Senator Natasha spoke out. The U.S. Congress acts when its members cross the line. Nigeria must decide whether it wants to keep shielding the old or start building something new.

Leadership is not a hiding place. It’s a responsibility. And it’s time we stopped confusing one for the other.

"The days of life pass away like clouds, so do good while you are alive." - Imam Ali (AS)

Many people may expect me to write about the late President Muhammadu Buhari, a retired Nigerian Army Major General who was many things to many people and different things to different people.

Alive, to a multitude of people, he was a man who could do no wrong. Dead, his wrongs must be interred with him. He was often excused; it was always the fault of others for every misstep of the government, though he was its numero uno. It was either that the National Assembly did not want him to work or that the ministers he appointed and tolerated were corrupt, while he was clean. Or, we, the ordinary folks, were not good enough for the saintly man that he was. The tendency to cut you down when you bared your mind was always there – and would remain for a long time to come.

He was a man with a cult following, venerated by millions. Has Nigeria ever had a man with the sort of intense following of Buhari? A man for whom people were willing to drink gutter water, trek hundreds of miles, and kill and be killed for? Hardly. He was elevated to an angel-like level by some of his worshipful followers, who regarded him as a deity of a kind. When he fell sick early in his first tenure, some of these followers attributed certain semi-divinity to him.

The man had been going to London for his medicals, as he once said, but they claimed that his sickness was a result of an out-of-this-world poison administered to him. To them, he was beyond sickness, and so, to yarn the superhuman story around his image, they claimed that that particular type of poison was so potent that only “three people”, or so, had ever survived it in the history of the world – and that the man, Buhari, was that third person.

Nobody ever thought it would have been a wise and patriotic idea for Nigeria to build a world-class hospital, even if it just specialised in treating his ailments, so that he could subsequently receive treatment there, and Nigerians who cannot afford the £3,000 daily cost of the London Clinic where he died would have some succour.

Even though his spokesman, Mr Adesina, said the man would have since died had his health been managed in Nigeria, I think he has not heard about the patriotic sacrifice of Dr Mahathir Mohamad of Malaysia.

He sacrificed his life for them when he refused to travel abroad for medical treatment related to his heart in 1989, opting to be operated upon in Malaysia.

He had this to say: “As a doctor myself, I knew the risks. I knew there was a possibility that I might not survive the operation, as it was not a common procedure.”

Yet he rejected his doctors’ recommendations for surgery in the US.

“I had to have faith in our Malaysian doctors,” he said. “If I didn’t make an example of myself, no one else would have confidence in our medical service.”

The surgery was successful, and he went on to establish world-class medical facilities in the then underdeveloped country, transforming it into a global hub for medical tourism.

In any case, what is abhorrent in a leader dying at home, apart from, perhaps, in a holy land related to his religion? Nelson Mandela was treated at the Mediclinic Heart Hospital in Pretoria on 8 June 2013 and passed away on 5 December 2014. Jerry Rawlings died at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra, Ghana.

Undoubtedly, Nigeria can easily afford to build the best hospitals in the world, locating one in each of its six geopolitical zones, with Abuja having another one. We also have the wherewithal to attract the best brains in the world from the medical and its associated fields – a significant number of whom are Nigerians.

In 1983, when General Buhari came to power, one of the complaints about the Shagari government was that the country’s hospitals had become “mere consulting clinics.”

But even if we accede that “Babangida did not allow him to turn around our health sector,” no doubt, the billions spent on just the Villa Clinic during his eight years could have upgraded it to be good enough for him – and others after him.

For heaven’s sake, Nigeria is 65 years old. No self-respecting nation with Nigeria’s human and natural resources will have its leaders getting medical treatment abroad. And to think that two former Nigerian leaders, Buhari and General Abdulsalami Abubakar, were both admitted to the same London Clinic at the same time! It is a shame and a national embarrassment.

However, people will still not want to discuss what should have been, as it affects a specific person. Just as, due to sentiment, you would be asked to “pray” for the leader who was misusing the opportunity God gave him, you would now be reminded of a hadith that says, “Do not abuse the dead, for they have reached the result of what they have done.” However, this hadith is a general ethical instruction from the Prophet (SAW), reminding believers to maintain dignity in their speech when discussing those who have died.

The truth is that it does not prohibit critical historical evaluation, especially when lessons must be drawn for the living. It merely warns against mockery, slander, or vengeful speech directed against the deceased.

Anyone who thinks otherwise must stop talking about the evil deeds of anyone who dies. People must also keep silent when Bello Turji dies – and even now, just pray for him to be guided, not caught and jailed. Why speak of the Pharaoh? Or Shekau? Allow the dead to rest in peace!

We must know that there is no history, secular or Islamic, that has not been kind to those who were kind. And many historians who had the fear of God instilled in their hearts have been unkind to the unkind by telling the truth about their kind. Many truths denied today will flourish tomorrow; after all, we have come across today’s truths that were vehemently shunned yesterday. Surely, surely, the truth always finds its way out.

When Mark Antony said, “The evil that men do lives after them… and the good is oft interred with their bones,” in Shakespeare's play Julius Caesar, he meant that negative actions or wrongdoings are often remembered and have lasting consequences, even in the afterlife, while good deeds may be forgotten.

But would the North have forgotten if the dredging of the River Niger, the Lagos–Kano railway, or the Abuja–Kano highway were completed?

One thing Nigerians will not forget in a hurry is that President Bola Tinubu is a humane and considerate leader. He also accords respect and honour to those to whom they are due. Whatever one thinks of him, one must give it to him. We cannot forget that he was at the funeral parade of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja. A former Chief of Army Staff, the late Lt. General Ibrahim Attahiru, who served from 28 January 2021 to 21 May 2021 and died in the 2021 NAF Beechcraft B300 King Air 350i crash near Kaduna International Airport, did not receive that privilege from President Buhari, who was a general himself.

We must commend Tinubu for these gestures because General Attahiru and President Shagari deserved better. They were also leaders in their own right, parents and grandparents. And they served Nigeria meritoriously.

We all see it. Elections come and go, but one thing never changes—once the votes are counted, the appointments begin. Not just any appointments. These are calculated, deliberate, and often predictable. It’s not about who’s best for the job. It’s about who delivered. Who promised votes. Who can still pull a crowd.

Across the country, the conversation is no longer about qualifications. It’s about compensation. You hear it in hushed meetings and open rallies—“our zone must get a slot,” “we deserve something at the center.” Appointments have become bargaining chips in a game that’s less about governance and more about settling political IOUs.

Even before elections, the trades begin. A region is offered a plum federal slot in exchange for votes. A key political actor is promised a board chairmanship if he can deliver his district. It's subtle, sometimes coded, but everyone understands the deal. It’s no longer public service. It’s campaign strategy with the seal of office.

The recent statement by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) shows how clearly this reality is being noticed—and challenged. The party accused President Tinubu of using a new wave of federal appointments not as a step toward national inclusion, but as a desperate move to regain the trust of Northern Nigerians after what it called “over two years of neglect.”

“You cannot marginalise a region for over twenty-five months and expect applause because you suddenly remembered on the twenty-sixth month that Nigeria is bigger than Lagos State,” the ADC said through its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi. To many Nigerians, that statement cut deep, not because it was new, but because it felt familiar.

ADC called the move “political panic management,” not policy leadership. And whether one agrees or not, the core question remains: when appointments are rolled out as consolation prizes, are we still governing—or just pacifying?

The EFCC says it’s currently investigating 18 sitting governors. That’s progress. It shows that some boundaries are finally being challenged—that the shield of office is not as bulletproof as it once was. For a country weary of watching public officials enjoy unchecked power, it’s a sign of movement, however small.

But let’s not get carried away.

The probe of governors—welcome as it may be—will ring hollow if we ignore what happens before the looting. When appointments themselves are political rewards in disguise, the rot doesn’t begin with the money that goes missing. It begins the moment a person is handed power, not because they’re capable, but because they’re loyal. Or useful. Or available for trade.

The case of former Plateau State Governor Joshua Dariye is a stark reminder. EFCC testimony detailed how he allegedly diverted ₦1.126bn in ecological funds by personally collecting the cheque and instructing how it should be shared—some to political associates, others to unregistered shell firms. One payment of ₦100m was traced to “PDP South-West,” and ₦250m was linked to a private contractor. A Permanent Secretary collected ₦80m and fled the country after charges were filed. It all started with how Dariye controlled appointments and built a circle of loyalty—public office turned into personal cover.

And it’s not just Nigeria. In South Korea, President Park Geun-hye was forced to resign from office after it was revealed that her close associate, Choi Soon-sil—who held no official position—was secretly influencing appointments, editing presidential speeches, and using her connections to solicit ₩77.4bn (approximately $60 million) from major corporations. The backlash sparked mass protests, global headlines, and Park’s impeachment. She was eventually sentenced to 25 years in prison.

That was not an isolated case. Brazil’s Michel Temer was arrested for using public appointments to secure political loyalty and conceal corruption. In the U.S., Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich was caught trying to sell a Senate seat and was jailed. In Nigeria, just like Governor Joshua Dariye, former Taraba Governor Jolly Nyame was convicted not just for theft, but for weaponizing appointments to enable it.

These aren’t random scandals. They are warnings.

Appointments are not neutral. They shape everything—budgets, contracts, influence. And when they’re handed out like political favors, the nation bleeds slowly from the inside. Ministries become reward centers. Agencies lose their backbone. And merit is the first casualty.

Perhaps that’s why our institutions are struggling. Why performance is inconsistent. Why innovation struggles to survive. The people best suited to lead are often the ones most excluded, because they didn’t shout the loudest during primaries or weren’t owed anything.

Nobody is saying a leader shouldn’t work with trusted hands. But trust must be earned through service, not sealed in a smoky hotel room after campaign rallies. Every appointment is a message. It tells the country what we value. If we keep valuing loyalty over competence, we shouldn’t pretend to be shocked when failure repeats itself.

The EFCC can probe all it wants. Until we start scrutinizing how people rise into office—what their appointments are really for—we’ll keep chasing the fruit while ignoring the root.

Public office is not a thank-you card. It’s a responsibility. And until we treat it that way, nothing truly changes.

People who build things, solve problems, or create value should be the ones who rise. But that’s not the way it works.

The person who becomes rich quickest isn’t always the one with the best ideas. It’s often the one who knows someone in power. Contracts awarded quietly. Figures inflated. Work barely done — or not done at all. That’s how wealth is built in too many corners of this country.

Meanwhile, people running real businesses are fighting to survive. The welder training apprentices. The tailor paying rent on a one-room shop. The developer working through the night to write code. Their work is serious, their effort real, but without access, progress stalls.

Most of the country’s wealthiest didn’t start out by solving a major problem or building something new. Their stories often begin with government, not innovation. That reality explains why so few of them built wealth from scratch, through ideas or products that scaled without political help.

This environment rewards closeness over competence. The more connected you are, the more secure your future. The less plugged in, the harder it is — no matter your skills.

That’s a broken system.

In other parts of the world, governments still play a role, but the focus is different. When the U.S. backed Nvidia through research funding and tech development programmes, it wasn’t handing out favors. It was supporting an ecosystem. Nvidia rose because its products worked, and because the playing field allowed winners to emerge based on performance.

Tesla and SpaceX had public money too. But there were clear terms. Deliver or get cut off. No long-term contracts without output. Those companies thrived because they met the moment, not because someone called in a favour from the top.

Here, money often moves before any work begins. And when things fail, no one answers for it.

This approach limits the country. It sidelines builders. It turns ambition into frustration.

What’s needed isn’t a miracle. It’s a shift in how the government sees its role, not as the main source of wealth, but as a supporter of those who can create it. Back businesses doing serious work. Fund research. Build basic infrastructure that helps many, not just a few.

If resources are allocated only to the connected, wealth will remain in the same hands. But if the environment changes, more people will take the risk to build, to invent, to grow. That’s when real development begins.

Until then, too much money will keep flowing in the wrong direction — and the future will stay locked behind office doors instead of being shaped in workshops, labs, and studios across the country.

One learns every day. Anyway, a man is supposed to learn from cradle to grave, as said by the Prophet of Islam, Muhammad (SAW). And so, I have learnt a great deal about people throughout my life.

I have come to understand that life is fleeting, and our perceived years on earth are but a fleeting moment, passing at the speed of light. It is also true that behind every smile, we may see multiple pains that surface the moment the smile is wiped away, just as screensavers disappear at the touch of a finger. Therefore, always do your bit for anyone you come across.

You see, I recently lost a nephew to kidney complications: my late father’s namesake, 45-year-old Dr Sulaiman Mamman Mohammed. The day I saw him on 3rd May this year at the Yobe State University Teaching Hospital in Damaturu, I was unable to control my emotions. I shed tears. Profusely. I am naturally emotional; I can shed tears while reading a novel or watching a film. Hisis situation was devastating.

This was a boy you held in your hands in his infancy, and watched him grow into an educated, responsible family man. Now to see him lying helpless, with a smile on his lips, hope in his eyes, an imprisoned soul restless, a weak body yearning for health, a weary mind asking questions… at the same time, knowing that this may be his last moments on earth. Hmmm, tell me, how can you not cry?

I have seen close relatives and associates in such a pitiful situation where you find yourself unable to do anything, except to do your bit, whatever you can.

My late wife, Lami Fatima Babare, was one of them. Her face was always in a smiling mode, now and then interjecting, “Allah abun godiya.” At the same time, she lay bedridden as cancer mercilessly consumed her innards.

Then there was Neptune Prime’s Chief Operating Officer, the late Amina Alhassan Ahman. She kept her ailment hidden behind a faint smile that told you everything was alright with her. But it was not so, because cancer was debilitating her insides as well.

As for my wife, I was there throughout her travails until she gave up. In one of our last discussions, she told me, “I have finished paying my debts.” I think she was trying to tell me not to worry about looking for those she owed, but she never once spoke of her money in other people's hands. In the case of Amina, there was nothing I could do as I did not even know the pains hidden behind her smiling exterior.

But about my nephew, there is something about the “do your bit” that I learnt from the governor of Yobe State, Honourable Mai Mala Buni. As is his tradition of personally offering assistance to all manner of people with health challenges, particularly Yobe indigenes, or through his government, he did help the late Dr Sulaiman Mamman.

Along the line, some people, for no cause whatsoever, wrote a scathing piece that went round social media against the governor, making it look as if it came from the family of the sick man. It was deliberately meant to enrage the governor and stop him from helping out.

Mai Mala, being the man that he is, just brushed off the taunt for its nuisance value and quipped, “It is about health,” and went on to give him the necessary support. Or, he just did his bit. My nephew’s friends, Doctors Sulaiman Dauda and Mohammed Goje, who are ever ready to support the governor in his duties, also contributed immensely towards assisting the boy.

You see, in this life, one must always do their bit so that whatever happens, they can have a conscience like that of a baby. The governor will move about light-hearted, but might have been bogged down by a sense of guilt and remorse if he had failed to do what he could have done when he had the chance. All those who could have assisted, not only the late Sulaiman, but all human beings they came across, but failed to do so, would go to their graves with a feeling of guilt. And failure. But this is for those with a conscience.

Do your bit or not, life will move on, and one day you will be gone. Time, that is fleeting, running at the speed of light, will not stop in its tracks or pause to look back when you drop and get taken to your real home six feet below.

Many people do not understand time. Please remember anything from your past, and you will see that it has passed at the speed of light. The speed of time never changes, but God in His wisdom compresses it for your mind to subdivide it into seconds, hours, days and years for better comprehension.

To you, 90 years is a lifetime, from the day you were born, to coming of age, becoming a parent, a grandparent, growing old, and finally bowing out with creaking bones. A housefly goes through the same motion in 28 days, a male mosquito in 10 days, and a female in 56 days. Ever wonder why most husbands leave their wives behind? A dog can last 13 years, an elephant 70, and a tortoise 150, while flowers last from a few days to a few years. The lifespan of trees ranges from a few decades to thousands of years.

To all these wonderful creations of God, time and its speed are relative, customised for their nature. To some creations, their lifespan is not even up to that of a housefly. Yet your whole life is not up to a dot or a speck in the sands of time. Less than infinitesimal.

Mercifully, our brains are geared to compartmentalise time and our imagination to slow and normalise it for our nature. Ditto for all God’s creations based on their anatomy, physical structure and composition. That aligns us with the universe and the Essence of the Creator, which makes us one, or universal, with all that we know.

Therefore, always read and see behind the smile of all creation. Be good to all. Meaning unto all, do your bit, because whatever you do, good or bad, you are doing it to a part of you, and it must affect you physically, mentally or spiritually, positively or negatively, according to your intentions.

A word, they say, is enough for the wise.

Advocacy for the green economy was seen as discriminatory and condescending - the rich countries telling the poor South how to manage their affairs for the benefit of human kind. It was considered a call for sacrifice by the poor countries to mitigate projected risk to the global climate while the present state of the earth climate was to a considerable extent the consequence of uninhibited industrialization by the wealthy countries. It was thought unfair. This is why the controversy over who pays for the stringent enforcement mechanisms remains unresolved. 

On the other hand, the Blue Economy is a universal realization of the boundless resources of the ocean and how we can all use this to improve the livelihoods of all people in a sustainable way. In this case, the application of the principle is case specific as the developmental requirements of each country is unique to each one as we might as well be on different planets in terms of economic conditions. What Norway needs for instance is not what Nigeria need.

Nigeria’s Blue Economy holds untapped potential to become the primary driver of economic diversification, job creation, and sustainable development. For the purpose of Nigeria's unique economic goals it is important to de-emphasize Marine and underline BLUE because it's already in it, it is a component. Blue is inclusive, symbolic and serve the maximalist interpretation of Nigeria's own Sustainable Blue Economy objectives. Let’s look at the outlines of a strategy to develop ten new ports as dynamic economic growth centers, integrated with transport corridors and industrial zones, targeting a national GDP expansion to $1.5 trillion plus in the short to medium term:

1. Rationale for a Blue Economy Maximalist Agenda with the Nigerian GDP hovering around $350 and $450 in the last few years for a population of over two hundred and twenty million: 

Even a 20–25% increase in current port throughput, combined with sectoral diversification, could ripple across GDP metrics. The multiplier effect in jobs, income, and investment could be huge if governance and policy coherence align.

- Nigeria has a 853 km coastline, underutilized for national productivity.

- Existing ports are overburdened; regional competitors have outpaced Nigeria in maritime logistics. 

- Ten new ports would dramatically increase Nigeria’s cargo handling capacity. This could:

- Attract regional transshipment business currently going to hubs like Lomé and Tema.

- Enable exports of value-added goods (not just raw commodities) via efficient logistics.

- Create jobs in port operations, logistics, customs, and maritime services.

- The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) unlocks regional demand that Nigeria must meet or risk marginalization.

2. 2. Strategic Pillars of economic Growth
3. Maritime Trade & Port Infrastructure

- Build ten ultra modern deep-sea ports with smart port technology.

- Attract transshipment and transit trade from landlocked neighbors.

- Add - $150–$200 billion to GDP via logistics, trade, and maritime services.

1. Integrated Transportation Corridor

- Construct and modernize 10,000+ km of roads and rail from hinterlands to ports. Integrated Transportation Infrastructure -

Linking ports seamlessly with rail, roads, and inland waterways reduces the cost of doing business across sectors:

- Agricultural producers in the north could access global markets more easily.

- Manufacturers could import raw materials faster and cheaper, boosting industrial output.

- Unlock inland trade, especially agriculture and manufacturing.

- Add - $180 billion to GDP through efficiency and productivity gains.

1. Industrialization via Special Economic Zones

- Cluster agro-processing, petrochemicals, tech, and shipbuilding near ports.

- Incentivize with tax breaks, infrastructure, and governance.

- Add - $350 billion to GDP while reducing imports and increasing exports.

1. Offshore Energy & Marine Resources

A robust Blue Economy isn't just about ports:

- Expansion into offshore wind, tidal energy, seabed mining, and marine biotechnology opens new revenue streams.

- Better surveillance and maritime governance could curb illegal fishing and drive sustainable aquaculture.

- Develop offshore wind farms, blue hydrogen, fisheries, and coastal tourism.

- Reform maritime security and monitoring for sustainable exploitation.

- Add - $250 billion in GDP from energy diversification and marine enterprise.

1. Human Capital, Services & Innovation Developing SEZs around each new port with tax incentives and infrastructure would:

- Attract foreign direct investment (FDI).

- Spur clusters of industrial activity in shipbuilding, logistics tech, and agro-processing.

- Create 10+ million jobs across value chains.

- Establish maritime academies, R&D hubs, and marine tech startups.

- Add - $120 billion in GDP from services and tech-driven growth.

1. Regional Trade Integration 

With AfCFTA now operational, these ports could serve as:

- Gateways for trade beyond ECOWAS—think Central Africa and Sahel countries.

- Hubs for intra-African value chains, reducing dependency on Europe or Asia.

- Position Nigeria as West and Central Africa’s logistics and trade hub.

- Leverage AfCFTA for value chain participation and export-led growth.

- Add - $150 billion in GDP through expanded regional influence.

1. Tourism and Blue-Tech Innovation

Coastal infrastructure could drive:

- Marine tourism, cruise terminals, waterfront development.

- Blue-tech R&D hubs in oceanography, coastal resilience, and smart port technologies.

3. 3. Policy & Institutional Recommendations

- Establish the Nigerian Blue Economy Commission to start with - a twenty first century autonomous entity for oversight and coherence. A Bill has been introduced in the National Assembly - to ensure urgent passage of the bill the Federal Government should immediately push for enactment. 

- Enact legislation for Blue Economy special status zones.

- Implement customs reform and digital port processes.

- Partner with private sector and multilateral lenders for infrastructure financing.

4. Comparative Insights - Learning from Global Blue Economy Champions

To accelerate Nigeria’s transformation into a Blue Economy powerhouse, international best practices offer valuable insights. Key examples include:

- Seychelles: Pioneered Blue Bonds to finance marine sustainability.

- Norway: Showcased how ecosystem-based policies and marine data governance can enable oil, fisheries, and ocean tech to thrive in harmony.

- Gambia: Demonstrated that local, gender-inclusive aquaculture can rebuild ecosystems and empower communities.

- Morocco: Integrated food systems, climate resilience, and coastal regeneration through its Blue Belt.

- Portugal: Positioned itself as Europe’s blue-tech innovation hub with robust marine R&D.

IMPACT ON GDP- 

1.Maritime Trade & Port Logistics

- New cargo volume: +300 million metric tons/year (conservative per-port estimate).

- Revenue channels: port fees, trade facilitation, container handling, freight forwarding.

- GDP Contribution: - $150–$200 billion  

Multiplier effect: Enables broader trade-related services (banking, insurance, warehousing).

2. Integrated Transportation Corridors

- New rail + road linkages: - 10,000 km across key trade arteries.  

- Productivity boost in agri-export & manufacturing supply chains.

- GDP Contribution: - $180 billion  

Knock-on effect: Reduced transport costs could unlock inland GDP potential by 2–3%.

3. Industrial Hubs & Special Economic Zones (SEZs)

- Located adjacent to new ports; focus on value-addition industries like agro-processing, petrochemicals, shipbuilding.

- Target: 15–20% of GDP via non-oil sectors.

- GDP Contribution: - $350 billion  

Game changer: Drives FDI, reduces import dependency, boosts job creation.

4. Offshore Energy & Marine Economy

- New sectors: Offshore wind farms, gas pipelines, blue hydrogen, seabed minerals.

- Revitalized sectors: Fisheries, aquaculture, coastal tourism.

- GDP Contribution: - $250 billion  

Strategic impact: Diversifies exports beyond hydrocarbons.

5. Employment, Services & Tech Innovation

- Direct + indirect jobs: - 10 million.

- Rise of maritime universities, ocean sciences, marine insurance, and blue-tech startups.

- GDP Contribution: - $120 billion  

Social dividend: Builds human capital & stabilizes coastal economies.

6. Regional Trade & AfCFTA Integration

- Nigeria as a logistics + manufacturing hub for Sahel, Central Africa.

- Transit trade with landlocked neighbors (e.g., Chad, Niger).

- GDP Contribution: - $150 billion  

Policy lever: Leverages AfCFTA to expand Nigeria’s market footprint exponentially.

Summing it UP - 

Growth Driver  Est. GDP CONTRIBUTION - 

Maritime Trade & Port Logistics  $150–$200B

Integrated Transport Infrastructure  $180B

SEZs & Industrial Hubs  $350B

Offshore Energy & Marine Resources  $250B

Services, Employment & Blue-Tech  $120B

AfCFTA-enabled Regional Trade  $150B

Total (Illustrative Projection)  $1.2–$1.5 Trillion on top of the current GDP. 

This projection hinges on speed, scale, coordination, and policy discipline—a Marshall Plan–style transformation with Nigerian ingenuity at the helm.

By adapting these approaches, Nigeria can develop a tailored, indigenous model of success—grounded in innovation, equity, and environmental stewardship.

Global Lessons Mapped to Nigeria’s Vision:

Key Takeaways for Nigeria-

- Combine Conservation + Commerce: Like Seychelles, Nigeria can balance ecological protection with economic use of maritime spaces.

- Empower Coastal Communities: Harness the energy and knowledge of fishers, women, and youth like The Gambia did—with financing, training, and formalization.

- Prioritize Science & Policy Integration: Nigeria’s maritime future needs strong ocean data, research institutions, and legal frameworks—echoing Norway and Portugal.

- Scale Coastal Resilience: Morocco’s Blue Belt shows how coastal restoration, aquaculture, and climate adaptation can be economically viable. 

Conclusively, a Nigerian Blue Economy more than any other policy initiatives provides the country the most singular and unique opportunity to confront most of its headline economic challenges - low productivity, unemployment, transportation infrastructural deficit, absence of enough centers of economic growth and sustainable development that none of the patch works initiatives can address. 

Building ten new modern ports creates the flag poles for this bold design that would be visible to the generations that are coming behind. It would be difficult for a sensible person to understand how and why Lagos remains the only place young aspiring graduating children think of going to better their prospects in life for a county as large as Nigeria. It’s really sad.

There are already policy discussions about deep sea ports in nearly all the littoral states and in most cases remains just that – Paper talk. Reason why consistently in all our (Alfe City Institution) advocacy series we have stressed the need for the National government to understand the littoral states are the staging posts and fulcrum of a sustainable Nigerian Blue Economy therefore must be fully integrated into the Blue Economy discuss. 

The seriousness of this government about the Nigeria Blue Economy will be only made clear by the immediate establishment of the Nigerian Blue Economy Commission – a twenty first century establishment, an Institution that would be research driven, financial and technology savvy to anchor what is a pivotal policy that must be at the center of Nigerian economic universe. It must put its enormous weight behind the NBEC Bill at the House of Representatives to this effect so that it  will methodically oversee the implementation of a sustainable Nigerian Blue Economy. It is time to properly put Nigeria at the helm of Africa’s economic future and guarantee the coming generations of a  place to be proud of and assure their life prospect. 

Enough of Japa!

In Nigeria today, when a job opens up, it’s not just a vacancy—it’s a lifeline. For the graduate selling books by the roadside, the mechanic’s apprentice dreaming of a better life, or the mother managing three kids on one income, work is more than employment. It’s dignity, stability, and the beginning of a different story. So naturally, when the government says it’s giving companies tax relief if they hire more people, it sounds like a smart and compassionate move.

But beneath that hopeful surface lies a critical question: What kind of jobs are we actually encouraging? Because jobs in name only—jobs that offer nothing more than a daily struggle—don’t solve the problem. They stretch it out.

The new Nigeria Tax Act 2025 offers companies incentives for expanding their payrolls. In principle, it’s a welcome idea. But we must pay attention to how companies are responding in practice. It’s easy to print offer letters and list names. It’s harder to provide work that transforms lives.

I’ve spoken to people who were “hired” just long enough for their employers to qualify for benefits, then quietly dropped. I’ve seen companies cut salaries into pieces just to stay within a threshold, all while smiling for the cameras and tax boards. Some create roles that sound good on paper but leave workers with nothing to hold onto—no pensions, no training, no path forward. And yet, they still manage to access substantial tax waivers. While the exact value per company remains shielded by weak transparency rules in our tax system, it’s clear that collectively, these incentives amount to millions, often without a matching benefit for the workers they’re meant to help.

Globally, we’ve seen this behavior play out. In America, a giant like Amazon once pocketed state subsidies meant for job creation while automating away thousands of warehouse roles. In India, multinational firms labeled contract cleaners as full-time employees to meet incentive conditions. In Brazil, a national payroll tax cut shrank the public purse while employment stagnated. South African firms learned to game youth wage subsidies by cycling young workers in and out of the system, never keeping them long enough to build anything lasting.

Now, Nigeria is at risk of importing not just the policies, but the loopholes too.

If we want tax relief to make a real difference, we need a different lens. A job is not just a headcount. It’s a commitment to pay fairly, to provide training, and to care. If a company hires 50 people at ₦35,000 per month, strips them of benefits, and calls that growth, it’s exploiting the very people the government claims to help.

Our people don’t need temporary fixes. They need careers they can build on. They need a sense of direction. Most importantly, they need to feel that this economy is being shaped with them in mind, not just balanced on spreadsheets behind closed doors.

That’s why we must raise the bar. Tax breaks should go to firms that are building, not just hiring. That means offering secure contracts, professional development, health support, and, yes, livable wages. We should be asking: Who did you hire? How long did they stay? What did they learn? How has their life changed?

This isn’t about punishing business. It’s about asking businesses to partner in progress, not just profit.

If we fail to do this, we’ll end up giving billions to companies who do the bare minimum, while the streets get louder, the queues get longer, and the trust gap between people and government grows wider.

The irony is that many Nigerians don’t even want handouts. They want to work. They want to be part of something. And when someone says “we’re hiring,” they want that to mean something real. Not a stunt. Not a statistic. Not a footnote on a tax filing.

There’s still time to fix this. We can design smarter incentives that reward real outcomes. We can audit the process, demand transparency, and elevate the standards. We can make hiring meaningful again.

Because at the end of the day, this isn’t about companies or taxes. It’s about people, and whether the system sees them as human beings or economic tools.

Let’s choose the former.

Presenter

Yes, it's always a pleasure to be with you on Insight at Citizen 93.7 FM here in Abuja. My name is Lawrence Umoete. Welcome to the show. It's exactly 32 years since June 12, 1993 presidential election won by the late Bashorun MKO Abiola. But that election was annulled by former military president, General Ibrahim Babangida, Rtd. Today on Insight, we take a reflective journey back to one of the most defining moments in Nigeria's democratic history, June 12, 1993. It was the day Nigerians came out in large numbers to vote in what is widely regarded as the freest and the fairest presidential election in our country's history. As we remember June 12, we ask, what lessons have we truly learnt? How far have we come in deepening democracy? And how far do we still have to go? Join me shortly to share insights on this historic day and its lasting legacy. Stay with us, this promises to be a powerful and reflective conversation. You can join our live stream on Citizen FM 93.7, on YouTube you can type in Insight, and then you will be part of this show from anywhere you are on the surface of planet Earth. You can also listen to us online on www.citizenfm.ng. And not forgetting our social media platforms on Facebook at Citizen FM Abuja. On Instagram at Citizen FM 937, and also on X at Citizen FM 937. Welcome to the show once again, my name is Lawrence Umoete. Well, our guest on the show today is Alhaji Jamiu Abiola, son of the late Chief MKO Abiola, and the winner of the 1993 presidential election, and also the proud son of Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, that heroine of the June 12 struggle. Welcome to the show, Alhaji Jamiu. Welcome to the show. 

Guest Speaker

Thank you very much, I'm glad to be here. 

Presenter

All right. Um, Alhaji Jamiu Abiola is currently the senior special assistant to the president on linguistic and foreign matters. Uh, he was before now special assistant to the president on special duties in the office of the vice president. And also not forgetting that Alhaji Jamiu Abiola is the Shettima Rasheed of Borno. Once again, it's a pleasure to have you on the Insight, Alhaji. 

Guest Speaker

Thank you so much. 

Presenter

All right. Eh! maybe we just start, uh, this with, uh, Alhaji Jamiu. Uh, first, uh, on a personal note, uh, how has it been for the Abiola family in the last 32 years? 

Guest Speaker

Well, it had been, uh, like a rollercoaster ride. You know, what happened to us was like a hurricane. And, uh, we thank God that we are able to survive it because, uh, it is not easy to carry a whole country on your shoulders. I mean, you win an election that you now become from the victor or from the, uh, winning party to the one that is being prosecuted, prosecuted by a very powerful military government, and a very, very wicked, uh, ruling elite, as in the military ruling elite. It was, you know, very, very brutal, especially the five, the years of Abacha's government, which year was from November 1993 to 1998, June 8, when he passed away. Then, uh, we now had General Salam came on board and-... that this is going to be a beginning of emancipation, freedom, in terms of, like, our breadwinner, Chief MKO Abiola coming out of jail. By then, my mother had been killed a year and a half before Abacha died. But, you know, Abdulsalami, you know, he, he released everyone, all the notable political prisoners, but left my father, you know, where he was, in detention. And he actually even made it impossible for any family member to see my dad till a day before he died, you know. I mean, Abacha died in June 8, and the family members were only allowed to see my dad July 7. So almost 29 days, you know. Just as he was about to be killed or... That is when they were allowed to see him. But before that, they allowed Kofi Annan, who was the Secretary-General of the United Nations, and Emeka Anyaokuwu, who was the Common Wealth secretary-general. They allowed people like that to see him, as if those people were more important to my dad than his own family, you know? So it was from there, you know, the struggle continued, even after he died. To date, there has been a very, very terrible three decades. But we thank God we're... as a family, we survived and we are still surviving. (sniffs) 

Presenter

O- o- okay. Uh, you said, uh, the family was not allowed to see Chief MKO Abiola until a day before he died. Uh, so that means the family members saw him, uh, 24 hours before his death, uh. Were you part of that delegation or, uh, do you know what happened? What happened? What did they say? How was the last 24 hours with the family before he died? 

Guest Speaker

Immediately after Abacha died and the new head of state emerged, the family had been reaching to General Abdulsalami that they wanted to see Chief MKO Abiola again. And they... uh, when I say the family here, I'm talking about, like, the matriarch of the family, which is Mrs. Adebisi Abiola, and, uh, the other, um, wife was in the house with Chief, um, Tuni Abiola. They tried and tried and tried and tried. And, uh, they finally got approval on the 6th of July that they should come and see him. By that time, I was still in the United States. I hadn't come back to Nigeria yet. Uh, you know, I came back to Nigeria much later. So the family members that saw him were Chief... Mrs. Adebisi Abiola, Chief Tuni Abiola, and Mrs. Lola Abiola, who was, who is my father's eldest child. They saw him from, like, 8:00 in the night of July 6 till, like, around 10:00, 11:00 on July 6. It was the following morning that he was now... well, he now died from a supposed heart attack. You know, so what we're talking about is, like, for 29 days, he wasn't allowed. So what we now... What I now concluded was that they were only allowed to see him so that it's on record that they saw him before he died. Because if they, they didn't see him, and he died, then they would have said the family did not see him and he died, it would have made the government look very, very bad. So I assumed that the approval was only given for them to see him because it was known that he was going to die. When they saw him, he was in very, very bad condition health-wise. He said he had fever, he said he wasn't feeling well. He even said, you know, he's been dreaming about my late mother, Olajoke Kudirat, and his... and my late stepmother, uh, uh, Alhaja Simbiat, that he saw them. So he was more or less hinting that he believed he was going to die. But, you know... And he was... Then the issue of his health was not really... it was not good at all, and he complained bitterly about that. So then he wasn't healthy, then he should have been released for medical checkup, but they just kept him, and he finally died. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

So it was a very, very, you know, tragic event. You know, it was terrible. 

Presenter

Okay. Uh, I also know that, uh, you were, like, about 18 years, uh, when the June 12 election was annulled, and about 23 or thereabout when he died. Uh, what was your personal relationship like with your dad, even though you were mostly in the United States? 

Guest Speaker

Well, I was very close to him because I used to come home for every holiday, and, uh, I was his only child that could speak more than, um, two languages. So I... Whenever he has guests that come from Northern Nigeria or, or from the Arab world, or anything, or from, uh, Francophone Africa, he will call me. 

Presenter

Okay, you speak Arabic and French. 

Guest Speaker

I speak Arabic, I speak French, I speak Hausa, I speak German, I speak Italian, I speak all of them. You know? So he would call me, I should come and translate for him, and I'll always be in between and all of that. So through those, I was able to get very close to him. You know, it's difficult to be close to a father that has so many wives. You know, we, we grew up in the same house, and he had four wives in that house, but he also had a lot of women in his life outside the house as well. 

Presenter 

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

So he was more or less everywhere, in terms of, like, he had people, like relations and, like, you know, children here, children there. And he also, you know, was also a philanthropist, and he was also somebody that was a politician. So... Well, at that point, he was a politician, but he was a philanthropist, too. He was more or less like his life was 70% dedicated to outside the family, you know. So he was... So but then through this, uh, uh, helping him with language interpretation, I was able to get very close to him, and, uh, we now had a special bond through that. And, uh, we were able to talk more and more. And because I could speak Arabic, he just felt like I was an angel, you know. He felt like somebody that can speak Arabic, knows the Quran, cannot do anything wrong. So if I told him anything, he would say, "Yes, it's true," because he speaks Arabic, you know. But obviously (laughs) you can... (laughs) 

Presenter

So, so were there times you used that, uh, to your advantage? 

Guest Speaker

Well, I don't think I was- 

Presenter

Just to get something from Daddy? 

Guest Speaker

(laughs) I can use that, yes, but, I mean, I will not, you know, go further than that. 

Presenter

Okay. Uh, I'm sure that there has been a lot written about your dad's, uh, public life, uh, his, uh, philanthropism, and stuff like that. Uh, but we want to know the Abiola as a father, the Abiola as a family man. From your perspective, how was he?

Guest Speaker

He was a very generous man, but I just told you now, he was more divided in terms of, like, his time was more dedicated outside. As a matter of fact, you know, to make, uh, a long story short, you know, I wrote, in 2015, which is, like, 10 years ago, I wrote a book called The President We Never Ruled. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

That book is on Amazon. I wrote the book in Arabic and I wrote it in English. And I also wrote another book in 2016 called The Stolen Presidency. 

Presenter

Presidency. 

Guest Speaker

So I've written two books about him, and those books are in-depth. The books, those are just, uh, uh, not just talking about him as a father, but talking about him as a child, when he was a child, as a son to his own father. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

Talking about him as a student, talking about him as a businessman, talking about him as a politician, and talking about him as, in his final role as a democratic crusader. So the book, The Stolen Presidency covers everything about the life of Chief MKO Abiola, and it's a book I wrote like a novel. I wrote it like a novel to make it more interesting so that people that read the book can see the intrigues, uh, not just like a history book where they'll say, "2004, this happened. 2007, this happened." 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

I wanted to make it fun, so I made it into a novel with characters, and it's a real novel anyway, so... 

Presenter

Yeah. 

Guest Speaker

But, uh, the father, to c- to answer your question, he was a very generous man, you know, a very, you know, big, you know, allowance, you know, he gave us the best education, all of that. But in terms of the distance, he, there’s always... You know, there was always a distance, and it wasn't his fault. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

You know, sometimes he would tell us that, "I'm gonna change, I'm gonna be more accessible. Every Sunday, we're gonna only spend the time, we're gonna spend it with only the kids." And we know if Sunday will come, we'll all go to his room, we will spend the whole Sunday with him. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

The following Sunday, he has gone again and he has forgotten about it. Then he would now come again and say, "Oh, sorry, oh, you know, but this time around, I'm going to try... Give me a couple of weeks," and from there, he will forget about it, so it's- 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

Well, that's that. 

Presenter

That's the point, yeah, you people got used to it. 

Guest Speaker

Yeah, we got used to it. Exactly. 

Presenter

Yeah. Okay, um, certainly MKO Abiola was such a formidable and political figure among Nigerians. What do you think made this possible, especially cutting across ethnic and religious divides? 

Guest Speaker

Well, what actually helped him is that he was sincere. You know, at the end of the day, if you give somebody one naira and, uh, you give it to him because you want him to do something for you- 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

... definitely, that person will take your one naira, and he might still do what you want, but he might do it with hatred. It's like a woman, you know. If you tell the woman that, "I want to give you this money or I want you to do this for me," she might actually even hate you. Even if she does what you want- 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

... she might hate you afterward. But if you give a woman all the things she wants and you don't even want her to do anything for you, and you do it because you just want to help her, she might actually love you, to the point that even if you don't even give her anything, she might still be doing whatever you want for her whenever you want her to do it. So- 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

... my father was generous to Nigerians, genuinely. He was giving Nigerians... Some people say, "Oh, maybe he did it because he wanted to gain something from them politically." He didn't do... Because a lot of people that actually benefited from him financially are not people that can actually ever help him. Number one, some of them, he doesn't even remember he helped them, so how can you even benefit from somebody you don't even remember exist? 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

Some of these people, he gives them $2,000, $5,000, £10,000, £20,000 for surgery, this and that, and they've gone. They've taken the money and they've gone. He's never going to see them again. So, it's not a question of, like, "I gave this person this money, and I'm going to run for president, and I'm going to go to Kaduna where the person is from, and the person is going to tell people and they're going to vote for me." 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

He doesn't even remember who these people are. So, that's why Nigerians were able to love him. That's why he became so powerful, because he did everything... He did the right things for the right reasons. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

That's the best way to put it. 

Presenter

All right. If you're just joining us, it's Insight on Citizen 93.7 FM Abuja. We are looking at the June 12 struggles, the June 12 years, the June 12 phenomena, everything about June 12. It's been 32 years since that fateful, memorable day, uh, in Nigeria. And, uh, my guest is Alhaji Jamiu Abiola, who is the son of the late Chief MKO Abiola, uh, the winner of that election, and also the son of Alhaja Kudirat Abiola. Um, briefly, let's talk about your mother, Alhaja Kudirat Abiola. This was one woman who stood in the gap when your father was in detention, such a strong woman. Could you let us into what, uh, made her so formidable? 

Guest Speaker

Well, one, she wasn't really somebody that would have done what she did, but it happened by accident when she saw the injustice unfolding. So what she did was a natural reaction, and, uh, uh, and she's the kind of person that works on impulse. Once she moves in a direction, she cannot hold herself back. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

Because as far as she's concerned, what did this man do wrong? You know, when he declared himself as president, he went into hiding for two weeks. And by the time he came out of hiding, he now, you know, came back home, and then the Abacha regime sent almost 800 policemen to arrest him. So she was right there, and she saw them taking him away, and she knows, just like other Nigerians, that this man is actually the president of Nigeria- 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

... and he's not supposed to be a prisoner of Nigeria. So she stood with him and she entered the car with him. And when she entered the car with him and they were going together, they now stopped the car on the road and they now forced her out, and she now entered, uh, her own car, which had been trailing them- 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

... and she was following him, but they now blocked her car from following him. So she had wanted to follow him to where he was going, but they did not allow her. So at that point, something happened in her, and that thing made her say to herself that, "No, I'm not going to let this happen. Even if it's going to happen, it's going to not happen without me fighting against it." That's when her own struggle for him began. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

And that's when he became incommunicado, and she now had to carry the whole struggle on her shoulders. And that's when she got involved in mobilizing the...... Pen- Penguson, working with people like Frank Kokori, working with all kinds of activists to make sure that she paralyzed the Abacha government. And that was when the government realized that they- they now took a decision that they wanted to kill her because they felt as long as she's alive, the government would not be able to get away with what they were trying to do. So, it was something that she felt she had to do because she was a witness to the injustice right there firsthand, and she couldn't just sit down and act as if she didn't see what she saw. So, she acted based on what she saw and she was going to go all the way and going all the way meant being killed. 

Presenter

All right, uh, it's, uh, ironical when we look at the sequence of events. Here was, uh, your father a leading figure in detention, and here was the wife, uh, mobilizing all that. Was there any point in time even though, uh, they- they were signals to report, but as family members, were there are times that you were afraid of her life? I mean, your mother, she could be killed anytime. 

Guest Speaker

Yes. We used to always argue with her, you know, especially me because the time that was the biggest, um, shock was when, uh, Chief Alfred Rewane was killed. Then we now saw Ken Saro Wiwa was killed and now Alfred Rewane could always lie and say that, "We were not involved," because, you know, it's not like he was killed with like Nigerian flag on the gun or something, you know. So he could always say, "We don't know how he was killed." 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

But, you know, they killed Ken Saro Wiwa in broad daylight and, of course, a lot of Commonwealth countries withdrew their ambassadors from Nigeria and the government didn't give care. So we now realize that a government that could act like that could do something worse. So, I used to always talk to her and telling her that if she wants to keep doing what she's doing, she's better off doing it out of the country. But she didn't listen to me. And, um, I was reading the New- New York Times one day when I saw her picture and I was wondering what she's doing in New York Times and I read that she was arrested because, you know, some people... She had actually told them to put posters around Lagos, you know, asking the people to fight against the government, the military government. And when the people that were putting the posters were arrested, they said it was her that sent them and they arrested her overnight. So, I knew that it was getting out of hand, that she would have been arrested because they said if she's found guilty, she will be jailed for seven years. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

So, she was already on the... She was about to get arrested and jailed. She was... You know, so things were getting heated up, so I kept warning her, warning her. And at one point she got upset with me that I was disturbing her too much. She said, "Look, the worst thing that can happen with her is for her to receive a bullet." She... That's what she told me. So, she knew that this thing is- is getting to the point because, you know, the Abacha government were not gonna step down and she wasn't gonna step down and, you know, these people are heartless and they went all the way. So when did that happen? Eventually, you know. I kind of like knew something like that would happen and, you know, so it wasn't a surprise to me. 

Presenter

Okay, uh, uh, and, uh, even though from your testimony now, you knew that something like that would happen. When it did eventually happen, how did you take it? 

Guest Speaker

It was very painful because, you know, I mean, the worst had happened and I got a phone call and the person just told me directly and that was it, you know. And, you know, so we now- 

Presenter

Who- who called you? 

Guest Speaker

It was like a... My father has a- a American personal assistant called Mr. Eko, it was his wife. Oh, by the way, he's, Mr. Eko died, you know, a couple of weeks ago and he's been buried today. 

Presenter

Mm. 

Guest Speaker

He's been buried today on June 12. He wanted to be buried on June 12 if he ever died. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

So his wife is going to bury him today but it was his wife that told me about it and she told me that, "Look, mother has been killed." And I was like, "Wow," you know, "This is terrible," you know. So I came back to Nigeria to try to like, for our 48 day prayer, and I tried to see my dad as well. I went to Abuja and I was in Abuja for a month and a half and, you know, the Abacha government will not allow me to see him, so I had to go back to- to the United States. So it was a, was a tragedy upon a tragedy upon a tragedy. But, you know, this is the price you pay if you want a country that's big and that's complicated as Nigeria to become democratic, you know. So, you know, well, they're heroes now and, you know, I hope that the country is able to finally get its act together and, you know, really benefit from democracy once and for all. 

Presenter

Uh, well, we know the, uh, the efforts by the pro-democracy activists during this time and how they rallied round but your dad is, uh, reported to have been very close to the military elite, IBB for example. During this period were you able to reach out to some of the powerful people in government? I know that IBB was no longer in government after Abacha. 

Guest Speaker

No, we can't reach out to them because at the end of the day, you know, when we came back to Nigeria, you know, especially when my mother was killed, you know, I mean, we saw them as they are the cause of the problem, you know. So we... The only person we went to talk to was Diya and, uh, he was like number two supposedly, but he told us that he could not get involved because the Abacha government was really looking at him like he's a sellout and he said by the time he tells General Abacha that he wants also to see my dad, he will say, "Oh yeah, we always think you're a sellout." 

Presenter

Hmm. 

Guest Speaker

So he said that we should just go and meet the commissioner of police on our own. So at that point everybody was staying away because at that point we were seen as the enemy of the government and once you're the enemy of the government nobody wants to come close to you. 

Presenter

Mm. 

Guest Speaker

Especially Abacha's government, like people were scared of you. So it was a tragedy but nonetheless, you know, it has passed and we were able to survive it. So what we're just hoping is that, you know, Nigerians are patient and like this government is able to like implement its ideas fully and like, you know, the relief comes for Nigeria so that we start... You know, Nigerians really, really enjoy this democratic process. 

Presenter

All right, uh, the phone lines are open now. My guest is Alhaji Jamiu Abiola, son of the late Chief MKO Abiola, uh, the winner of the 1993 presidential election. He's also the son of Alhaja Kudirat Abiola. Uh, you can call us on 0903-222-9797. That's 0903-222-9797. You can also call us on 0818-222-2205. Any of the two numbers. Uh, let's start. Okay, already we have a caller here. Let's hear it. 

First Caller

Hello. 

Presenter

Good morning. 

First Caller

Hello, good morning. 

Presenter

Yes. Who's on the line, please?

First Caller

Yeah, my name is Oscar Olajide. 

Presenter

Okay, we have, uh, please get- 

First Caller

Calling from, uh, uh, Wuse, Abuja. 

Presenter

Okay, please go ahead. 

First Caller

Um, I, I want to condole with the family of Abiola, even though he's, uh, passed. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Speaker 4

And I want to appreciate the fact that there's someone who spoke to, to us today- 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

First Caller

... of a positive one. Um, there are questions I wish I could ask- 

Presenter

Hello? Hello? 

First Caller

... but I don't have the money. 

Presenter

Uh, I'm afraid you're breaking. We can barely hear you. 

First Caller

I (audio breaks up). 

Presenter

Oops! Okay. Perhaps, you know what? Maybe you can call us back. We can barely hear you. 

First Caller

Okay. Thank you. 

Presenter

Oops! I'm sorry. I have to end that call. Perhaps, we can't, uh, seem to make out what you're saying. The numbers again, 0903-222-9797. That's 0903-222-9797. You can also call us on 0818-222-2205. Uh, any of those two numbers, uh, let's talk. My guest is Alhaji Jamiu Abiola, son of late Chief MKO Abiola, winner of the 1993 presidential election, and we are talking about the June 12 years, the struggle and everything. Also, you can join our live stream on YouTube, Citizen FM, 93.7 and you will be, uh, able to follow proceedings right here in the studio. Our social media platforms are also there. You can reach out to us on Facebook @citizenfmabuja, on Instagram @citizenfm937, and also on X @citizenfm937. All right, it's still INSIGHTS on Citizen FM 93.7. Uh, let's talk about your dad as a businessman. MKO Abiola, the businessman. Your father built one of the largest indigenous business empires in Africa. Um, I know you were pretty young that time, but what's, what do you think was his philosophy when it came to business and entrepreneurship? 

Guest Speaker

Well, his philosophy was hard work and good marketing skill. My father was more or less a good marketer. He believed that marketing was the key. And the kind of business he did, you know, he was the...represented ITT in Nigeria. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

So, the company was a big company, and the company had its, uh, equi- equipment, which was the best at that time. So, all he had to do was to reach out to the customers, which is Nigerian government. So, he was more or less a salesman. You know, it's not like he was an industrialist or anything like that. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

And once he was able to do that, he now was investing in other areas so that he could diversify his income. You know, he... So, to call a long story short, he believed in being a good salesman, he also believed in diversification. Meaning that he doesn't put his eggs in one basket. So, he got involved in farms, he got involved in airlines, he got involved in oil. He did it as much as possible to make sure that if one industry was falling behind, another one would move ahead. So, he didn't want to, you know, put everything into one, you know, area. He wanted to make sure that he's protected. So, he was a good businessman, you know, but he was also generous to the point that the kind of person he was, he could end up even giving out his whole profit. 'Cause, you know, as he... the older he became, the whole issue of business became secondary. The primary aim in his life was philanthropy. So, he wanted to give and give and give. So, he was actually making money to give it away. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

Just like Bill Gates now, you know. I think he has said he's given out most of his wealth- 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

... after he died. 

Presenter

90% 

Guest Speaker

90%. 

Guest Speaker

My father did not wait to... after he died. My father was giving out while he was alive, you know, and he kept doing it. And that, probably, is why he won the election so well, because Nigerians really needed somebody like that at that time. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

So, that's his idea of business, you know, salesman and diversification. 

Presenter

Okay. Flipping back now, uh, what are, what is the fate of a lot of those businesses now after his, uh, demise? 

Guest Speaker

You know, once he got involved in the politics and he was able to like, you know... he spent a fortune, like almost $250 million on the election itself. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

And after election was annulled, he also spent another fortune trying to de-annul the election. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

Also, those two, you know, um, um, stages in his life had a very, very dramatic negative impact on his businesses. Then to make matters worse, after he died, some of his, uh, family members now went to put themselves into two companies in which he had made sure that nobody was a director or nobody was a shareholder, because he wanted his will to be established, which is that all the kids should be... have  equal shares in his company. And so, people who had put themselves in the company, and then now, you know, as the company has now... is subject to, um, years and years of litigation. So, those companies are actually being affected, because they've been... there's a lot of litigation in those companies. And while that is happening, the companies are not able to grow and, you know, get out of the cycle of, um, the, um, the bad state they were at as a result of the military, the hostile military environment during the incarceration of my dad. So, everything is now hanging in the court. You know, very soon, though, we're gonna get judgments and they... we will now be able to move the companies forward. But, you know, things are not, like, looking too good, because of all the series of things that happened in the last couple of years.

Presenter

Okay, uh, unfortunately, this is also painting a picture of, uh, how, should I say, disunited the family is currently. Is this a bother to you? Because I've read several interviews of you and some of your uh, siblings, so concerning happenings in the immediate family. 

Guest Speaker

Yes, you know, it's a bother to us, but then again, you know, it's something to be expected because, you know, whenever these kind of tragedies happen and something like bad like this happens, definitely everything goes to scatter, you know. I mean, it's really normal because at the end of the day, you know, I mean, the family is united before, everything was going well before, then all of a sudden everything breaks apart and the whole family becomes, you know, completely disunited. Yes, this is a product of what happened, the tragedy, you know. It's like a house, you know. It's, the house is like subject to earthquake, you know, you don't expect the house to be standing the way it was before. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

This, what happened to the family was very, very crushing, you know, and it's the kind of thing that can even destroy a lot of other family. But we thank God at least compared to other people, we have not even been through what, you know, a lot of people have not even been through 10% of what we've been through. And you can see them every day in newspapers, you know, always scandal from one scandal to another. In our own relatives to what we've been through in- from the military and all the, you know, negative, you know, events, we're still at least, you know, not as bad as a lot of other people. And we- we will get out of- get out of the woods by the grace of God. 

Presenter

Uh, would you say there are regrets that your father went into politics? 

Guest Speaker

Eh, you know, there will always be those regrets, but at the end of the day, it's not a question of like... there doesn't make any sense to regret what you cannot change. It's like me sitting out here and saying, "Oh my God, I wish I was from Canada or I wish I was from America," you know. I mean, you can regret what you want, but the reality is what it is. So my own, you know, principle in life is accept what y- what is going on in your life and move on, you know, and make the best out of it, you know. I'm not the kind of person that even if I want to regret, I will not allow myself to regret. If- if he didn't go into politics, perhaps we would not be celebrating him today. He would just have been like any other president that lived and died. And they will even say he was a businessman and what, it's a big deal. But now at least, you know, everywhere, even if you go to New York, you go to Manhattan, 44th Street, they named the street after my mother in New York. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. Yeah. 

Guest Speaker

Nobody in this, uh, whole of Nigeria actually have that kind of honor. And like, this would not have happened without the struggle. So there's always a good thing that will come out of something so bad. 

Presenter

Uh, well, there are some people who have- who have also argued that perhaps not because, uh, Chief MK Abiola went into politics, that's why the family's, uh- uh, disunited. They believe it because it was, uh, such a big family, that's why you have this conflicting interest. 

Guest Speaker

Yeah, some people will say that, but then, you know, if these people are actually, um... if they are conversant with what's happening all over the country, they will know about Chief, uh, Rotimi Williams who was the biggest lawyer in Nigeria. And like, you know, he only had one wife and he only had like four children, and up to now, you know, the family is still arguing over his wealth and they're still in court for... and there are only four children and they're from the same wife. When there's going to be trouble, there's going to be trouble, you know, no matter what, you know. Everything is gonna happen when it's gonna happen. And, uh, it's not a question of like, some people might only have two children, they might not decide to get along. The most important thing is, by the grace of God, as I said before, we'll get out of the woods, you know, we're gonna... a lot of meetings have been held and a lot of discussions have been held and I'm sure it's going to be a good resolution to all this problem by the grace of God. 

Presenter

Okay, one final word on the family issue. Uh, I know that in the case of the chief, uh, Rotimi Williams you just mentioned, there were several efforts by prominent Nigerians to, uh, resolve, uh, the feud and these efforts were thwarted. But in your own case, are they intervention from prominent Nigerians to make sure that the family gets its bearing back? 

Guest Speaker

Yes, a lot of people have intervened. Traditional rulers from Southwest, some people are actually even currently even trying to even come up with another committee and all of that. They are trying their best, you know, it's just that like, if not... I mean, people that are guilty of something will not really want to like have matters resolved because having matters resolved might mean bringing back money and (laughs) if you spend the money, how are you going to bring it back? And if- so at the end of the day, they will say to themselves that even if we resolve and we tell them that, "Sorry, I mean, so and so was taken, but we cannot bring back the money," won't it be another problem again? Isn't it better for us not to resolve than for us to go through the embarrassment of- of admitting what we've done and begging for forgiveness and being rejected? So, you know, it's- it's not so easy like that, you know. But anyway, whatever will be will be. Thank God. 

Presenter

All right. I- I also read in the media that you- you said you don't believe in the probe of your father's death. Why did you say this? 

Guest Speaker

Okay, which media did you read that? 

Presenter

In the papers. 

Guest Speaker

Oh. 

Presenter

One of the papers, that there was no point probing, uh, the death, that it's been so many years. 

Guest Speaker

No, no, no, you see, the question that they asked me that like, shouldn't there be a- and I told the person that even if they were to set up a probe, I mean, someone like Abacha now, I mean, we're going to go to his grave and wake him up. You know, and like, I mean, someone like General Babangida, I mean, I don't know how old he is, but I'm gonna tell him to come and testify, I mean, doesn't he remember? You know, at the end of the day, I want us to look at June 12 as a positive thing. I don't want us to keep looking at this person did this, that person did that, and like, we'll keep making it negative and negative and the bitterness continues. I want us to like move away from that bitterness and say, "Okay, on June 12, we all came together as Nigerians and we all voted for the man of our choice." And let's build up on that positive angle of June 12. That's what I meant from what I said. 

Presenter

All right, talking about positive angles, uh, June 12 has also been declared Democracy Day, but on a personal level for you, do you have any personal aspiration when it comes to preserving your father's legacy? 

Guest Speaker

Well, you know, we've started from somewhere, you know, it's now Democracy Day, then the next thing is for us as a people to start, you know, imbibing, you know, what June 12 stood for in terms of like, I don't really care if you're from the north or from the south, if you represent something good, I'll vote for you, you know. I want Nigerians to reach the stage in which-When people are talking about who they're gonna vote for, the last thing on their mind is where the person comes from. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

Last thing on their mind is what religion the person is actually having. The last thing on their mind is all these m- minor, minor issues that have nothing to do with the person's ability to perform. If we can actually achieve that, which is what we achieved on June 12, then I will believe that June 12 is actually the 'cause of that, and I will believe that something good came out of June 12. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

But so long as we keep talking about like, "Oh, this person's from Akwa Ibom. I don't really like him. I don't trust people from Cross River," or, "I don't trust people from Benue," you know, then- then this is going to defeat the whole purpose of June 12, and this is not what June 12 stands for. 

Presenter

So, uh, would you consider following your father's political footstep at any level? I mean, going into full-time politics- 

Guest Speaker

I'm a- 

Presenter

... partisan politics? 

Guest Speaker

I'm already, you know, working in the government, you know- 

Presenter

Yeah. 

Guest Speaker

... I'm a political appointee. 

Presenter

Yeah. 

Guest Speaker

You know, so- 

Presenter

What about elective? 

Guest Speaker

Elective, eh, you know, at the end of the day, even he himself, you know, it's not like he just woke up and said he wants to be the d- he, of course, wanted to be president, but the- the president, you know, uh, General Babangida told him that he wants him to run. So, at the end of the day, you know, I mean, I could, you know, be d- I could be invited to contest or something, but I would want to always test the waters first. I don't want to, like, jump and do something I'd- I'm not supposed to do because everything in this world starts and ends with timing. You know, most people fail in life in doing too many things because they do the right things at the wrong time or they do the wrong things at the right time. I would like to do the right thing at the right time. So, for now, I'll keep looking out and if the time is right, then I'll try to do the right thing. But so far, I haven't seen any indication that I'm supposed to do something like that, so for now, the answer is no. 

Presenter

All right. (instrumental music plays) Alright, it's still Insights on Citizen FM 93.7. The phone lines are on. You can call us on 0903-222-9797. You can also call us on 0818-222-2205. My guest is Alhaji Jamiu Abiola, who is, uh, the son of Chief MKO Abiola. And Alhaji Jamiu Abiola is currently the senior special assistant to the president on linguistic and foreign matters. Uh, coming to that, uh, I- I don't think I would be able to let you go on this show without talking about your current portfolio now in the- in the government as special assistant to the president on linguistic and foreign matters. Uh, so let's look at a few things, uh, what would you say are the core pillars of the current foreign policy of this administration? 

Guest Speaker

Well, the current politi- current, um, polic- foreign policy of this administration is to build strong ties with governments and make sure that Nigeria is able to, you know, attain its potential through those strong ties. We want to build good trade relations. We don't want Nigeria to be cheated. We want Nigeria to have a fair share of what, you know, it deserves. And my role in this you know, in the government- 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

... and I've always been a linguist, you know- 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

...since I was growing up, I've been learning languages, I'm building a language department for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

You know, and like, um, I am a certified translator in German, Arabic, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, French, you know? So, I specialize in several international languages. You know, and I want to make sure that Nigerians Ministry of Foreign Affairs has the best translation department because that is exactly what we're gonna need to actually push the government policy of improving our trade relations with other foreign governments and to make sure that we get our fair share. Because, you know, Nigeria needs to expand trade relations and all that, and, eh, this, the role I'm playing is very, very key on that. So, I'm not just into linguistics, I'm also into foreign matters. So- 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

...when Nigerians have been, um, not allowed or have been, eh, having problems abroad, I also look into that as well. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

Like, you know, sometimes, you know, people in Nigeria can be unfairly treated. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

You could have complaint here and there. Some people might apply for visas, and it might not be given for no reason, you know, and these are the things I'm supposed to look into and make sure that Nigerians actually have a fair deal.

 Presenter

Uh, well, in- in terms of diplomacy, especially, uh, yeah, now, uh, the- the world is facing some very huge challenges of conflicting interests in global affairs, uh, especially with countries like the United States, China, and even the U- European Union. How would you describe Nigeria's, uh, bilateral relationship with these major powers currently? 

Guest Speaker

Nigeria's bilateral relationship with major powers has been very, very good, you know, and, uh, they have to respect Nigeria because of Nigeria, especially now, being that a lot of countries in West Africa, I mean, not a lot, but, eh, a sizable number of them have been overtaken or have been overthrown by military regimes. So, Nigeria is- is strong democracy. Nigeria is a beacon of hope in, uh, West Africa. So, I think because of this event, Nigeria's role has become more important. And Nigeria is like a... it shows these powerful countries that West Africa is still stable and it's still predictable. So, Nigerian government is actually working hard to-... to strengthen the relationship with these countries, uh, bilaterally, you know, with trade, something... in a way that Nigerians are not cheated, you know. Because, you know, sometimes, you know, you could have relationships with countries and you find out that you are the one that is receiving the low end of the stick, you know. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

We want Nigerians to be given a fair treatment because we've earned it, you know. Nigerians are actually very, very good. Especially, United States, you know, look at, look at who is... The Nigerians that even work there, you know, look at what they've done, what they've added value to that country. So we as Nigerians, you know, the Nigerian government is aware of what needs to be done and, uh, doing what needs to be done. 

Presenter

Okay, uh, let's look at the Middle East, particularly Gaza and surrounding regions. Uh, crisis here continues to escalate. What will be Nigeria's official stand on the ongoing conflicts? 

Guest Speaker

Well, Nigeria's stand has been made clear over and over again, Nigeria believes in a two-state solution and Nigeria believes in the ceasefire and Nigeria wants the bloodshed to stop, you know, and... But at the end of the day, you know, Nigeria is working along with the United Nations and Nigeria is working along with its, uh, international partners. So Nigeria cannot even largely, you know, make its own demands. Nigeria has to work, you know, along with other international bodies so that those demands are actually effective. So Nigeria is very concerned about most of what is happening, especially the images coming out of Gaza. It's not something that people... any human being can be happy about. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

But definitely, I think, uh, from what we're hearing that there is going to be a ceasefire very soon and we're hoping that that actually happens. 

Presenter

All right. And, and back home, uh, to West African region. Uh, it's been a challenging period for Nigeria, especially the... in ECOWAS, considering the fact that our president is, uh, the chairman of, uh, ECOWAS now, and currently 

Guest Speaker

...president. Is it likely that after I appoint the... Nigeria may give up on trying to woo back, uh, the Sahel states? Well, Nigeria will never give up, you know. We're gonna keep trying to woo them back because, you know, unity is what is needed, I mean, for countries, you know, to grow. Especially, look at the European Union. A lot of people are actually getting more countries to join their folds for unity so that they can grow, uh, in a multiple fold. Uh, time for disintegration and moving apart is, is, is really out of fashion now. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

So we're gonna keep trying and trying. And I'm sure that those countries will come back. You know, a lot of them will actually not even come back now. But, you know, maybe they don't want to come back now because they might not want to become democratic again now. And they're thinking that if they come back, the next thing we'll start putting pressure on them- 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

... to go back to democratic rule. So maybe that's why they're holding back. But I'm sure that by the time those countries want to go back to democratic rule, they'll find their way back to ECOWAS, you know. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

We cannot afford to lose anybody. We don't want to lose anybody. 

Presenter

All right. Uh, you also spoke about, uh, uh, looking into cases of how Nigerians are treated outside and sometimes on visa issues. The Japa syndrome is there now. And, uh, as someone in government, relatively young, you're 49, I guess. And so what... when you meet Nigerians, especially younger Nigerians who are eager to do everything in the books, sometimes out of the books to get out of this country, what do you tell them? 

Guest Speaker

I always tell them to be patient because... and I also always remind them that, uh, some people are... as we say, Ja, they're also coming back as well. 

Presenter

Japada. 

Guest Speaker

They're going and they're japada. So, you know, it is important for people to know that, you know, the other side is not... the grass is not greener on the other side. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

I mean, it's easy to look at everything. It's like somebody that gets married and says, "Oh my God, I wish I married this woman. She's so nice." Just because you saw her for like two, three hours, you now compare her with your wife that have been with you for three, four years. She's carried a child with you and she has suffered, you know, a lot of... You know, it's very unfair because t- just look at Canada on the internet and say, "Oh, I want to move to Canada, I want to have a better life." You've not been there practically. At the end of the day, there are some things in this world that it's only when you go there that you experience it. So people should remember that. And they should also know that in Nigeria, where you've been and you have put in your time, definitely you have invested something. So if you want to gain, it's good for you to wait for your investment to yield results. But if before that happens, you take your in-... you go away and then somebody else is gonna benefit from what you've invested. So people should look at the big picture. I mean, it's so easy to throw away everything and end up with nothing. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. (instrumental music plays) Oh, well, uh, when we're on INSIDE, time flies. I wish we had a lot more time to talk about so many issues, but then, uh, we will have to leave it at, uh, this. But before I let you go, um, what are your thoughts about Nigeria in the next five to 10 years? 

Guest Speaker

Next five to 10 years, I'm very optimistic about what would have happened because this is the first time in Nigerian history we have a government that in just two years has come up with some very, very, very, very  powerful initiative. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

We're talking about like a Ministry of Livestock, you know, and like, to be honest with you, there's nothing more important than food security. I mean, when a country has food security, the country has achieved more than a quarter of its objectives. If we can actually, you know, achieve food security through the Ministry of Livestock, that is like a lifelong dream. Then we also have a Ministry of Regional Integration... Regional Development. What we've been looking for all along is how we can get the regionals... the regions to develop. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

When you have a ministry that is... its main focus is to help regions develop, you know, independently, independent of one another, they will now complement each other and in different places, you know, that's another powerful thing. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

This is... these are all brainchild of this government. Then we also have a tax policy that the government is going to use as an inward mechanism-So that no matter what happens abroad, if there's a crisis in the United States or something, it-- we're not going to be dependent on revenues from abroad to finance our budget. We're going to be dependent a lot on what we actually raise. And this new tax reform has gone further to ensure that the vulnerable and the poor are not, you know, adversely affected. So these three things I just mentioned now, they're like, can transform the trajectory of this country. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

And I think this gives me hope for the next five years. 

Presenter

All right. And, uh, are members, every member of your family, are they in agreement with you serving in this government? 

Guest Speaker

Well, you know, the family is a very big family, you know, and to be honest with you. 

Presenter

I'm talking about the immediate family. 

Guest Speaker

Oh, my, yeah, my mother's children, yes. 

Presenter

Not only your mother, just the wives and the kids- 

Guest Speaker

No, no. 

Presenter

... directly. 

Guest Speaker

When I got this appointment- 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

...everybody called to congratulate me. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

But I did not ask them, "What do you think?" Because at the end of the day, it's my life, right? 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

But everybody called to congratulate me. So, I think that answers your question. 

Presenter

Okay, so, uh, what's your personal relationship with, uh, your other brother, Kola Abiola? 

Guest Speaker

I don't really talk to him, but then it's because of the fact that we're in court and all of that. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. 

Guest Speaker

But definitely, you know, once it's all over, you know, we'll talk again. It's not a big deal. 

Presenter

Mm-hmm. All right. Well, thank you so much, Alhaji Jamiu Abiola- 

Guest Speaker

Mm-hmm. 

Presenter

...uh, for your interventions on Insight. It's been really, really very interesting, especially getting, uh, up and personal with the Abiola family. Couldn't have been closer, uh, than this. Thank you so much. 

Guest Speaker

Yeah, thank you too. 

Presenter

We really appreciate you. 

Guest Speaker

It's nice meeting you. 

Presenter

All right. Uh, that's our package on Insight today. My guest has been Alhaji Jamiu Abiola, son of, uh, the late MKO Abiola and the winner of the 1993 presidential election, and also the proud son of Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, that heroine of the June 12 struggle. Insight returns tomorrow. Okay, tomorrow is Friday, Insight returns on Monday with another edition. My name is Lawrence Umoete. By 11 o'clock, we have a special documentary for you on the June 12 struggle. Please don't miss it. Enjoy the day.

Victory is with patience. Success is with endurance. And war is a matter of turns. – Imam Ali, Nahj al Balagha, saying 189.

Gaza. A four-letter word sounding like the tasty gizzard. But Gaza is nowhere as palatable as the gizzard. Gaza is now the symbol of all that is bad with apartheid and racism. It brings to the world the sights, sounds and fury of the Holocaust. Gaza is not a place that can be tasty at all. Well, except for hunger. Diseases. Deprivation. And death.

Gaza City, a hot semi-arid climate with Mediterranean characteristics, was the most populous city in Palestine until the Gaza War displaced most of the population. Inhabited since 15 BC, it has been dominated by different peoples and empires throughout its history. The Philistines conquered it after the ancient Egyptians had ruled it for 350 years, followed by the Roman Empire, under which it experienced relative peace. Later, it developed into a centre of Islamic law when Haruna Rashid conquered it.

For want of space, one would jump to contemporary times when Gaza City fell to British forces during World War I, becoming a part of Mandatory Palestine. Due to the 1948 Arab–Israeli War, Egypt administered the newly formed Gaza Strip territory. The city was occupied by Israel in the Six-Day War in 1967. However, Gaza has been largely destroyed by Israeli airstrikes since the start of the Gaza War in October 2023, including a large amount of significant cultural heritage in the Old City of Gaza.

Residents of Gaza were more like prisoners in an open prison. They were only allowed to travel to the West Bank in exceptional humanitarian cases, particularly for urgent medical reasons, but not for marriage. It is possible to travel from the West Bank to Gaza only if the person pledges to relocate to Gaza permanently. Socioeconomic conditions in the camps are generally poor, characterised by high population density, cramped living conditions, and inadequate basic infrastructure, including roads and sewers. Overcrowded camps, inadequate sanitary facilities, poor hygiene conditions and insufficient access to clean drinking water increase the risk of disease outbreaks, including diarrheal diseases and skin or viral infections. In addition to the physical consequences, the mental health of displaced people is at risk.

The above scenario has been the lot of the Gazans, a people who have lost their lands and are confined to an open-air prison.

Some people in Nigeria are so sentimental about the issues in the Middle East that their reasoning has been beclouded by religion and ethnicity. So they side with the untruth and injustice of man on man.

Not long ago in Nigeria, some communities rose in arms when they wrongly thought the government of the day wanted to seize their lands and give them to another tribe in the name of "ruga", yet these same people do not sympathise with those whose lands were taken away from them elsewhere. In contrast, they should be the first to feel their pain. Communities here still fight over land, and border disputes are rampant, yet they fail to see the pain of the Gazans.

Many who, under normal circumstances, would not subscribe to their lands being taken ought to sympathise with the Gazans. However, many do not out of hypocrisy or misplaced sentiments. But even among the Israelites, the occupying nation, many of its citizens believe what is happening in Gaza is wrong.

Professor Meir Baruchain, who opined, “I think that we are in the lowest moral point of Jewish history. That’s what I think. In the lowest moral point of Jewish history,” said that the treatment of Palestinians—including the killing of children, the destruction of olive trees, and other forms of violence—has been widely accepted by much of the Israeli public, and is seen as part of a policy sustained across generations.

Professor Baruchain, 62, is an Israeli history and civics teacher who was held in solitary confinement for four days after posts he made on Facebook denouncing the war in Gaza and his opposition to the killing of innocent Palestinian civilians. Police seized his phone and two laptops before interrogating him on suspicion of committing an act of treason and intending to disrupt public order. After being in jail for four days, Baruchin was freed but lost his job as a teacher and is still facing charges. 

"These days, Israeli citizens who are showing the slightest sentiment for the people of Gaza, opposing the killing of innocent civilians, are being politically persecuted, they go through public shaming, they lose their jobs, they are being put in jail," he said.

According to him, if he had been Palestinian, he would have faced more violence. Below is his interview:

“Here in Israel, for generations, we kill the Palestinians. We injure the Palestinians. We have more than 1,500 Palestinians in administrative detention. We demolish their houses here in Jerusalem. We cut down their olive trees. We confiscate their property, their waters. And most Israelis expect them to accept it. And when they don't take it, they react violently. They (Israel) blame them, the Palestinians.

“For most Israelis, I mean, we hold millions of Palestinians under occupation for generations. They are deprived of their fundamental rights. And for most Israelis, it can go on forever. Don't get me wrong, I'm not justifying the violence. But this is, I think, the realistic conclusion. How can we expect the Palestinians to live under occupation forever?

“Every Israeli citizen knows clearly that if you dare to show the slightest sentiment towards the people of Gaza, if you criticise the killing of innocent civilians, including women and children, in Gaza, you will be politically persecuted. You will go through public shaming. You will lose your job, and in my case, you may even be put in jail.

“I wanted as many Israelis to know what is done on their behalf. Most Israelis don't know because the mainstream media doesn't show what goes on in Gaza, what we are doing in Gaza. They wished me to die. They wanted my children to die. They threatened to rape my daughter. That was the kind of reaction that we are against.

“As human beings, we must develop a sense of justice and empathy. We must always endeavour to side with the oppressed because a man oppressed anywhere in the world is humanity oppressed everywhere in the world.”

Gaza and their sufferings have nothing to do with religion or race. Among them are Muslims and Christians, and the Muslims are almost all Sunni.

This is why you find Europeans and Christians at the vanguard of the calls for a better living condition for Gazans, currently under Israeli blockade, where food and medical supplies are not allowed to reach them. How does a person with blood flowing in their veins rationalise the dropping of bombs on starving masses who had assembled to receive food aid at a designated spot?

You find the young Swedish climate and political activist Greta Thunberg leading a march through the streets to break the blockade. Former Galatasaray, Italy and Manchester City manager, Roberto Mancini, also spoke out on social media in support of Gaza, urging the international community to act to protect innocent lives and calling for urgent humanitarian aid to the battered enclave. 

“We cannot keep striking civilians, families, and children,” he said.

The last Pope and the current one both spoke against the suffering of the Palestinians. Pep Guardiola also said, “War in Gaza hurts my whole body”.

Piers Morgan, a British TV commentator and a rabid supporter of Benjamin Netanyahu, recently agreed with Mehdi Hassan, Zeteo's editor-in-chief: “Listen, you and I have talked about this war in Gaza ever since it started, this phase of the 75-year conflict,” Piers says to Mehdi. “I have resisted going as far as you have done in your criticism of the Israeli government. I resist no more.”

Gaza is not about Islam or Arabs. Gaza is about humanity.

The Federal Government’s pursuit of a national carrier has been a long-standing endeavour, marked by both initial successes and subsequent setbacks.

From the records, Nigeria had made not less than 11 attempts to float a national carrier, out of which only four, – Nigeria Airways, Virgin Nigeria, Nigeria Eagle and Air Nigeria – took off.

The four attempts mentioned above took off by having aircrafts and staff members, while the other seven shots were just idea that never saw the light of the day.

The establishment of a national carrier, therefore, has been a recurring theme, not just because it represents national pride but also it creates jobs, boosts tourism, fosters international trade, generates revenues and supports economic growth.

It was, therefore not surprising that the recent announcement, that the federal government would no longer push for the establishment of a national carrier was greeted with mixed reactions from stakeholders.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, recently at a function in Lagos, disclosed that the federal government would no longer establish a national carrier, but gives full support to the growth and expansion of domestic airlines.

During the launch of a book: ‘100 Years of Civil Aviation in Nigeria: History, Issues and Prospects’ written by Wole Shadare, the minister said the administration of President Bola Tinubu is committed to driving policies that would support the growth and development of local airlines,

Clarifying his position, Keyamo on his verified X handle (@fkeyamo) said: “While not directly investing in a new national carrier, the government remains open to private or public, for establishing a national carrier that benefits Nigeria”.

With the clarification made by the minister, it is pertinent to distinguish between a national carrier and a flag carrier to know the direction of the government in floating a wing for the country.

A national carrier is an airline that is wholly government-owned and operated, representing the country in aviation-related bilateral agreements.

Examples of national carriers include, Air France (France), Qantas (Australia), and Emirates (UAE). It can also be owned by government and privately managed as we have with Ethiopian Airlines (ET).

A flag carrier, on the other hand, is a privately-owned airline that is designated by the government to represent the country on international routes. Example are United Airline or Delta Air in America, British Airways in United Kingdom and Lufthansa in Germany.

It is important to note that, while both types of airlines fly under the flag of a country, the distinction lies in their ownership and operational structure.

Like Emirate, Qatar Airways, the defunct Nigeria Airways was a wholly owned entity of the Nigerian government for most of its existence.

Established in 1958 as West African Airways Corporation Nigeria (WAAC Nigeria) and later changed to Nigeria Airways in 1971, the defunct national airline was the embodiment of Nigeria’s presence in international aviation.

For over 40 years, before ceasing operations in 2003, the airline linked various destinations within Nigeria, West and Central Africa. It also operated intercontinental flights to Europe, USA, Middle East and Asia,

The airline which employed thousands of workers directly and indirectly, operated various models of Boeing aircraft and diverse fleet with specific configurations.

Plagued by mis-management, corruption and overstaffing, at the time of closure in 2003, the airline had debts of more than 60 million dollar (equivalent of about 91.8 billion dollar as at present)

The latest of the attempts to have a national carrier was the inauguration of Nigeria Air on May 27, 2023, just 48 hours before the end of the tenure of the immediate past administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

The then Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika had in 2018, during the Farnborough International Airshow in London made public, the Federal government partnership with the Ethiopian Air to float the Nigeria Air.

Under the shared ownership of the airline, ET had the controlling interest with a 49 per cent stake. Institutional investors like MRS had 46 per cent and the Federal government had just five per cent.

From the plan, ET was to manage the airline’s operations under a management contract, which would connect the local Nigerian market with international markets and destinations.

Aviation stakeholders, were, however, opposed to the structure of the deal contending that the airline was neither government owned national carrier nor locally owned flag carrier.

They argued that the Nigeria Air was owned and controlled by foreign entity that could operate domestic routes and international flight flown from and to Nigeria.

“The deal presents Nigeria Air as a foreign owned, government-backed airline that will fly internationally and also on domestic routes.

“We can also see that the deal is just business for ET to fulfill its objective of becoming Africa aviation hub.

“National carrier are more than just business for countries. They inspire national pride for the citizens

“Under the current circumstances, the Nigeria Air could do more harm than good,” industry expert , Dumebi Oluwole said

Oluwole also contended that the deal was in violation of Article 7 of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Convention that guides airlines operation worldwide.

The article, according to him, is called cabotage and provides that foreign airlines should not run operations with special privileges exclusively in a state.

The Airline Operators of Nigeria, who was also displeased by the formation of the carrier had also sued the Federal government to stop the floating of the airline on the grounds that the national carrier project did not show fairness, equity, and transparency.

Besides the opposition and the legal encumbrance, the inauguration of the airline was also marred by scandal with the report that Sirika chartered an ET aircraft for the launch.

When Keyamo assumed office as minister, he also criticised the ET national carrier deal that it was unfair to Nigerian airlines.

According to him, it would be irresponsible for the Federal government to allow a foreign entity to monopolise the nation’s aviation industry,thereby compromising the growth of local businesses.

The Minister declared the deal as “fraudulent and anti Nigeria” and announced the federal government’s decision to suspend it indefinitely.

Some industry players had welcomed the suspension of the ET Air Nigeria deal and the declaration by the minister that the federal government would no longer invest any funds in establishing a national carrier.

In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Group Capt. John Ojikutu, said there was no reason to continue calling for a National Carrier after the Privatisation, Commercialisation and Concession Act of 2000.

Ojikutu, the former Commandant of Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, said, in line with the Minister’s position what the country needed is a flag carrier.

He however, argued that the government must take up the responsibility of designating the flag carrier if the airline must operate on the Bilateral Aviation Safety Agreement (BASA).

According to him, a wholly government funded and operated national carrier would result in a repeat of the Nigeria Airways experiences of corruption and mismanagement.

“Any attempt to continue with the idea of a National Carrier is a way to forming a government airline for government officials and not necessarily for the Nigerian citizens,” he said

Mr Abdulmalik Jibreel , Aero Contractors Inter- Governmental and Business Development Manager shared the sentiment of Ojikutu on the need for the country to have a flag bearer .

According to him, an efficient flag carrier would contribute to the nation’s aviation industry’s growth and be a mix of domestic, regional, and international routes, strategically designed to connect Nigeria to the world and contribute to the economy.

He added that it would maximise the benefits from Bilateral Air Service Agreements (BASA) and the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).

Jibreel, however explained that establishing a national airline independently, without government involvement and support, would be complex and challenging.

Mr Oluwaseun Jegede, an aviation finance expert suggested a merger of the liquidated Arik Air and Aero Contractor under the management of AMCON, to birthe a national carrier

Jegede said the idea would safe the federal government the financial commitment of buying new aircrafts and lay to rest the challenge of huge debt owed by the former managements of the two airlines.

On the contrary, Mr Wale Otubanjo, a former Flight Captain with the defunct Nigeria Airways, said national carrier is a national pride and should be funded by the government.

According to him, the pitfall of the Nigeria Airways was mainly mismanagement which could be averted.

Justifying the importance of a national carrier to a country, Otubanjo referenced the decision of the South Africa government to keep its national wing, South African Air, afloat even when it has not made profit in more than a decade.

Similarly, Mr Hector Nnadi, the Chairman of Joint Consultative and Negotiating Council (JCNC), said re-establishment of a national carrier would be for the benefit of the Nigerian aviation community, the flying public, and the nation’s economy as a whole.

According to him, with proper management a national carrier would be a key driver of economic growth and development for the country with far-reaching impacts on various sectors.

By and large, there is a strong consensus that Nigeria needs a national carrier or flag carrier, and the current administration should doubled its efforts to establish one.

While some argued against government involvement, citing potential inefficiencies and the success of privately-owned airlines elsewhere, many believed a national carrier is crucial for Nigeria’s aviation sector and overall economic development. 

Credit NAN/Gabriel Agbeja

Protocol

With profound honour, I stand before this joint session of our National Assembly; a parliament that embodies the will of the Nigerian people.

2. Today, as I entered this grand edifice built from the sweat and toil of our democratic yearning, my heart stirred. It was a blend of accomplishment and resolve.

3. I felt a sense of collective accomplishment when I realised how far we had come as a nation. Since 1999, democracy has risen from the ashes and destitution of military rule to take its rightful place as the only mode of governance of our resilient and beloved people.

4. With every footstep I took through these hallowed halls up to the moment I now stand before you, I remembered that we still have much further to go.

5. To achieve this progress, we sought an elective office to lead this nation forward. Thus, I hereby affirm before our Merciful and Almighty God and all men my resolve to do all that I can to safeguard and build our democracy as the Divine hand intends for us to do.

6. Since 2018, we have celebrated Democracy Day on this day; to commemorate the sacrifices of the men and women who fought to restore democratic governance to Nigeria.

7. Let me pay tribute to former President Muhammadu Buhari for reaching back into history to rectify a national misdeed by making June 12 Democracy Day and by officially acknowledging Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola and his running mate, Babagana Kingibe, as the victors and thus duly elected President and Vice President respectively of Nigeria after the June 12, 1993 elections.

8. Year by year, election after election, every time we debate instead of battle, discuss instead of fight, and argue instead of destroy, we preserve the institutions of democracy. More importantly, we weave the culture of democracy into the very fabric of our nation.

9. Whilst Chief MKO Abiola is June 12’s central figure, we must not forget the long list of those who equally deserve to be called heroes of Nigerian democracy.
10. We must celebrate the courage of Alhaja Kudirat Abiola and Pa Alfred Rewane, both of whom were murdered by agents of military repression. We also remember the many civil rights activists, journalists, and politicians imprisoned, exiled, tossed aside, tortured and beaten by the military regime.

11. We remember Chief Anthony Enahoro, Commodore Dan Suleiman, Chief Abraham Adesanya, Ayo Adebanjo, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Balarabe Musa, Ganiyu Dawodu, the journalist Bagauda Kaltho, and Commodore Ndubuisi Kanu. I mention these names not to exclude or degrade the profound contributions of anyone else, but to illustrate, through these few heroes, the universality of our pursuit of democracy.

12. The struggle was never the province of any one group or section of the country, it was pan-Nigerian in its conception and will be even more pan- Nigerian as we strive to perfect it.

13. It is fitting that I come to this chamber. You are the authors of the people’s law, and I must be their faithful implementer. While we may not always agree, we must forge a way to work together because this is what democracy demands of us. I pledge myself to this cooperation and ask that you do the same for the good of our people.

14. Mr. Chairman, the National Assembly has acted to uphold democratic ideals at every critical moment in our national history. In 2006, the 5th National Assembly protected our democracy against an unseemly third-term bid that would have ripped our constitution apart. In 2010, the National Assembly, through the doctrine of necessity, opened the door for then-Vice President Goodluck Jonathan to become the acting President following the illness of his predecessor.

15. Even under the military, the National Assembly tried to protect our democracy. After General Abacha took over power on November 17, 1993, and dissolved the National Assembly, some of us, led by Senator Ameh Ebute, the Senate President in the 3rd Republic, defied the General and his goons to reconvene in the Old Parliament Building in Lagos. We were jailed for our defiance.

16. On behalf of a grateful nation, I commend your invaluable role in lawmaking, oversight, and constituency representation.

17. At this point, I plead for your indulgence so that I may put a terrible rumour to bed.

18. To those who ring the alarm that the APC is intent on a one-party state, I offer you a most personal promise. While your alarm may be as a result of your panic, it rings in error. At no time in the past, nor any instance in the present, and at no future juncture shall I view the notion of a one-party state as good for Nigeria. I have never attempted to alter any political party registration with INEC. Equally, my friends, we cannot blame anybody seeking to bail out of a sinking ship even without a life jacket.

19. Look at my political history. I would be the last person to advocate such a scheme. In 2003, when the then-governing party tried to sweep the nation clean of political opposition through plot and manipulation, I was the last of the progressive governors standing in my region.

20. In all their numbers and false grandeur, they boasted of ruling, not governing, Nigeria for the next half century or more. Where are they now?

21. Yet, I stood alone. My allies had been induced into defeat. My adversaries held all the cards that mortal man could carry. Even with all of that, they could not control our national destiny because fate is written from above. A greater power did not want Nigeria to become a one-party state back then. Nigeria will not become such a state now.

22. The failed effort to create a one-party state placed progressive political forces on a trajectory to form the APC. It put me on the trajectory which has brought me before you today. I dare not do such a favour to any political adversary by repeating the same mistake of political overreach.

23. A one-party state is not in the offing. Nor should it ever be. That said, we would be guilty of political malpractice if we closed the door on those from other parties who now seek to join the APC and I sincerely welcome our party’s newest members from Delta and Akwa Ibom States led by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Pastor Umo Eno and other members of this National Assembly.

24. Political parties fearful of members leaving may be better served by examining their internal processes and affairs rather than fearfully conjuring demons that do not exist. For me, I would say try your best to put your house in order. I will not help you do so. It is, indeed, a pleasure to witness you in such disarray.

25. We must welcome and accept the diversity and number of political parties just as we welcome and embrace the diversity of our population. Our efforts must never be to eliminate political competition but to make that competition salutary to the national well-being by working across the political aisle whenever possible.

26. One area in which democracy calls us to work together, whether in the legislative or executive branch, whether in this or other political parties, is that of economic and social development.

27. Upon assuming office, my team and I moved to reform our ailing economy. We introduced fundamental reforms to correct structural imbalances that prevented maximum growth.

28. We are already seeing results. GDP grew by 3.4 per cent in 2024, with Q4 hitting 4.6 per cent, the highest quarter of growth in over a decade. Inflation is easing gradually, steadying the price of food staples like rice and beans. Our net foreign reserves have increased fivefold, and the Naira exchange rate has stabilised. Our balance of payments position is positive; our sovereign credit rating is improving as we continue to promote oil and non-oil exports. States now do not need to go about borrowing to pay salaries.

29. In less than one year, over one hundred thousand Nigerians, including thirty-five thousand civil servants, have benefited from affordable consumer credit through the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP), enabling them to purchase vehicles, light up and improve their homes and purchase life essentials. This July, we will launch a bold new initiative to empower four hundred thousand young Nigerians, including youth corpers, with consumer credit.

30. We are committed to giving more opportunities to young people through job creation and skills development. Through such programs as NELFUND, we are investing in education, vocational training, apprenticeships, and internships to ensure our youth are job-ready and future-ready.

31. In addition, we have embarked on an ambitious project to lay fibre optic cables across the nation, a transformative step toward bridging the digital divide and fostering greater connectivity. This initiative promises not only to enhance the speed and reliability of internet access but also to revolutionize how businesses operate, how students learn, and how communities stay connected. By extending this critical infrastructure, we are empowering entrepreneurs, enabling digital education, and providing the tools for our youth to compete in a globalized world.

32. Our “Nigeria First” policy will further enhance progress as we consolidate market-driven growth. The improved economic performance is encouraging and validates the soundness of our policy measures. Our medium-term growth target remains an economy growing at a 7 per cent clip with a stronger manufacturing base. We must learn to produce and grow most of our food and we are on the path to achieving food sovereignty.

33. These and other reforms have placed the economy on a more rational footing where critical decisions regarding large-scale investment can now be made.

34. I ask you, the legislature, to join me as we enter the second half of our term to put forth innovative legislation that further encourages industrial development and job creation in our urban centres while also drafting laws that improve food security and production.

35. To further underpin our economic vision, we introduced a comprehensive Tax Reform Package, a vital component of our economic re- engineering. I am deeply grateful to both chambers for your thorough consideration and deliberation of these bills, and I look forward to signing them into law soon.

36. Again, your collaboration across party lines on these bills has been a model of democratic partnership.

37. As elected leaders, we must continue to do more to make real the dream of Nigeria’s political and economic democracy.

38. We must be vigilant in expanding the political space. We must always value dialogue over dictatorship, persuasion over suppression and rights over might. Be tolerant and broad-minded in your legislative action regarding speech and civil liberties.

39. Do not be afraid to hear an unkind word spoken against you. Some of the best advice a politician gets sometimes comes from his most ferocious opponents. We dare not seek silence because the imposed silence of repressed voices breeds chaos and ill will, not the harmonics of democracy in the long term.

40. While malicious slander and libel should not go unattended, no one should bear the brunt of injustice for merely writing a bad report about me or calling me names. Democracy requires a fair degree of tolerance for harsh words and stinging insults. Call me names, call me whatever you will, and I will still call upon democracy to defend your right to do so. Mr. Senate President, Mr. Speaker, Distinguished Senators and Honourable Members.

41. Our nation is not perfect, but it is strong. Our democracy is not invincible, but it is alive. And this means our dream of a prosperous, happy nation is still within reach and worth fighting for.

42. Mr. Chairman, Nigeria is at an inflexion point, undergoing structural and fundamental change toward a secure future.

43. Our administration is fully committed to boosting the economy’s productive base. Through investment in critical infrastructure, roads, expansion of port operations, rail, and power we are creating a new environment in which industry and manufacturing can thrive. Our tax and fiscal policy reforms will streamline tax administration and eliminate burdensome and multiple taxes enabling our industrialists and entrepreneurs to operate in a more conducive environment.

44. Governance must work and deliver value to the people. As part of our tax reforms, we have provided small businesses with an exemption and established the Office of the Tax Ombudsman to ensure transparency and protect taxpayer rights. Digital tools now help us track performance and reduce waste. The Diaspora Bond and Non-Resident BVN are bringing
Nigerians abroad into the national development fold.

45. In line with my promise during my New Year address to the nation, I recently appointed the board of directors of the newly established National Credit Guarantee Company. The company backed with 100 billion naira in initial capital; with BOI, which, by the way, is performing very well in supporting SMEs, NSIA, CreditCorp, and MOFI as stakeholders, will play a significant role in transforming the nation’s industrial landscape and reducing corruption.

46. National Security is the foundation of peace and progress. We have intensified security operations to reclaim communities from criminals and terrorists. We are better at coordinating intelligence, and inter-agency cooperation has improved. Our highways are safer, and we invest in technology and training to secure every inch of this country.

47. Let us take this opportunity to thank the men and women of our Armed Forces for their bravery in service of the nation. Their selfless dedication to protecting our sovereignty and ensuring the safety of citizens should serve as an inspiration to us all. As we celebrate the progress of our democracy, we must not forget the pivotal role they play in safeguarding our freedoms. For their courage and commitment, they deserve not only our gratitude but also our continued support, prayers and recognition.

48. Fellow compatriots, our achievements are not the work of one man. They are the result of a collective effort to make possible the Nigerian Dream. Yet, the journey is not over. We must work even harder to translate broad macroeconomic gains into tangible improvements in the lives of ordinary Nigerians. We must stay the course, reject cynicism, and believe Nigeria can and will rise again.

49. As we mark a twenty-sixth year of unbroken democracy, it is right to honour those who have made sacrifices in the past, braving all the odds and the guns to ensure we have a regime of democracy in our country.

50. In this light, I announce the conferment of the posthumous national honour of CFR on Kudirat Abiola, the heroine of the June 12 struggle.

51. I also confer posthumous national honours on Shehu Musa Yar’Adua (GCFR), Prof. Humphrey Nwosu (CON), Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu (CON), Alhaji Balarabe Musa (CFR), Pa. Alfred Rewani (CFR), Bagauda Kaltho (OON), Chima Ubani (OON), Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti (CON), Alao Aka Bashorun (CON), Chief Frank Kokori (CON), Emma Ezeazu (OON), Bamidele Aturu (OON), Fredrick Fasehun (CON), Professor Festus Iyayi (CON), Dr John Yima Sen (OON), Alhaja Sawaba Gambo (CON), Dr. Edwin Madunagu (CON), Dr. Alex Ibru (CON), Chief Bola Ige (CFR), Pa. Reuben Fasoranti (CFR), Sen. Ayo Fasanmi (CON), Sen. Polycarp Nwite (CON) and Dr. Nurudeen Olowopopo (CON).

52. I also confer national honours on Prof. Wole Soyinka (GCON), Prof. Olatunji Dare (CON), the journalist and journalism teacher; Kunle Ajibade (OON); Nosa Igiebor (OON), Dapo Olorunyomi (OON), Bayo Onanuga (CON), Ayo Obe (OON), Dare Babarinsa (CON), Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah (CON), Senator Shehu Sani (CON), Governor Uba Sani (CON), Barrister Femi Falana, SAN (CON), Prof. Shafideen Amuwo (CON), Barrister Luke Aghanenu (OON), Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi (CON), Hon. Labaran Maku (OON), Dr. Tunji Alausa (CON), Mr Nick Dazang (OON), Hon Abdul Oroh (OON), Odia Ofeimun (CON), Seye Kehinde (OON), Barrister Felix Morka (CON) Barrister Ledum Mitee (CON), Hon. Olawale Osun (CON), Dr. Amos Akingba (CON), Prof. Segun Gbadegesin (CON), Mobolaji Akinyemi (CFR), Dr. Kayode Shonoiki (CON), Prof. Julius Ihonvbere (CON), Prof. Bayo Williams (CON), Sen. Abu Ibrahim (CFR), and Sen. Ame Ebute (CFR).

53. Additionally, I confer the national honour of CON on Uncle Sam Amuka Pemu, a legendary journalist and publisher who remains true to his lifetime calling as he marks his 90th birthday tomorrow, June 13.

54. Furthermore, I also confer posthumous national honours on Ken Saro Wiwa (CON), the leader of the Ogoni Nine and his fellow travellers, Saturday Dobee (OON), Nordu Eawo (OON), Daniel Gbooko (OON), Paul Levera (OON), Felix Nuate (OON), Baribor Bera (OON), Barinem Kiobel (OON), and John Kpuine (OON). I shall also be exercising my powers under the prerogative of mercy to grant these national heroes a full pardon, together with others whose names shall be announced later in conjunction with the National Council of State.

55. Finally, it is my great privilege to now decorate the presiding officers of the National Assembly with the National Honours earlier conferred upon them last year:

Presiding National Assembly Officers

Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, GCON – SENATE PRESIDENT
Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD, GCON – Speaker
Senator Jibrin Ibrahim Barau, CFR – DEPUTY SENATE PRESIDENT
Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, CFR – Deputy Speaker

56. In conclusion, let us rededicate ourselves to the ideals of June 12; freedom, transparent and accountable government, social justice, active citizen participation, and a just society where no one is oppressed.

57. Happy Democracy Day, and may God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria and protect our troops.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
President, Commander-in-Chief of The Armed Forces,
Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The second year has gone since Bola Tinubu was sworn in as the President of Nigeria, which translates to half of his tenure already spent!

At the first anniversary, the thinking in some quarters was that one year was too short to access the performance of any government. But now that it’s half of the tenure and behind the scene networking for him to return for the second term is in full gear, a comprehensive assessment should better be done now by anyone that cares or never.

Surprisingly, there is no meeting point between the two opinions on the performance of the President so far, and it seems there will never be a convergence, with those that are against him having nothing good to point at as achievement, while those in support are ready to sing his praise to the heavens.

Those on the left pole as expected are from the camp of the opposition parties who are yet and may not be able to cross to the ruling party, and of course millions of citizens who are negatively hit by the president’s economic policies in the last two years. It has been very difficult for many to comprehend why government cannot banish an extreme hardship that has even surpassed what they saw when they thought there could never be a worse clueless leadership in Nigeria.

Nigeria’s political system is yet to have a measurement mechanism where the performances of the leaders and the mood of the populace can be gauged as we see in many advanced democracies where opinion polls on leaders are released from time to time, and they are taken seriously, like a mirror to know the possibilities in future elections.

THE NAY SAYERS

The voice of those who seem to be discontented with the way things are going in the country no doubt is the loudest. The hardship voice is so loud in every corner such that if public opinion counts and if there is a remote possibility of having a free and fair election in the country, one would say that the President and his ruling party will be having sleepless nights.

It will be interesting to see anyone that can swear that there is a free and fair election in Nigeria. I believe the closest to a consensus will be that candidates will rig and win where they are popular. This can explain why some supporters will sing ‘ba tie dibo, oti wole’ (even if we don’t vote, you have won) during electioneering campaigns or the audacity that the PDP had then to boast that it will rule for 60 years.

The loud voice of discontentment in the last two years stems from  the removal of fuel subsidies, Naira depreciation, spiraling inflation as high energy and food costs eroded the purchasing power of most Nigerians.

In the opinion of the former Vice President Atiku Abubarka who is occupying the extreme end of the opposition, in two years, the Tinubu’s administration has proven to be one of the most incompetent, disconnected, and anti-people governments in Nigeria’s democratic history.

He claimed a disregard for transparency, accountability, and responsible leadership, saying the government has not only deepened poverty, but set new records in wasteful public spending.

Pointing out that Nigeria’s total public debt in two years skyrocketed from 150 per cent to N144 trillion when compared to those of state governments where debt levels dropped from N5.86 trillion to N3.97 trillion, he concluded that Tinubu administration was the primary driver of Nigeria’s debt crisis.

His former boss, Former President Olusegun Obasanjo also shared same sentiment as he was quoted to have written in his book, Nigeria: Past and Future, that the Lagos-Calabar highway typifies waste and corruption.

He was quoted as saying, “Typical examples of waste, corruption and misplaced priority are the murky Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road on which the President had turned deaf ears to protests and the new Vice-President’s official residence built at a cost of N21 billion in the time of economic hardship to showcase the administration hitting the ground running and to show the importance of the office of the Vice-President. What small minds!”

Atiku’s political party, the PDP is also singing the same song while urging Tinubu to urgently address the issue of insecurity, reverse all economically suffocating policies and check the wholesale corruption, greed, unbridled profligacy, reckless misdirection of resources, arrogance in failure and totalitarian tendencies in his administration, which has shown itself as anti-people and impervious to the suffering of Nigerians.

Mr. Peter Obi, the Presidential candidate of the Labour Party  has always been critical of President Tinubu's administration, particularly on economic issues. He had expressed concerns about the country's economic downturn, highlighting a significant decrease in GDP from $477 billion to $252 billion, which dropped the country from the biggest economy in Africa to number four.

SIMPLY THE BEST?

But in a sharp contrast, those that could see with the same lenses as the President, particularly those in the organised private sector are happy with what they are seeing so far.

Ironically, the removal of fuel subsidy which many are lamenting about is what the President’s admirers have embraced as one of his best achievements so far.

They believe that Tinubu’s economic reforms are promising despite being tough on Nigerians and businesses as they see positivities in the  fuel subsidy and foreign exchange rate unification; Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) initiative to save over N2 trillion monthly by cutting petrol imports; Billions approved for the Student Loan Scheme; significant increase in government revenue with  funds being channeled into large-scale infrastructure projects; rise in oil production; over $500 million in foreign direct investments; other social intervention programmes which include  over N200 billion allocated to the newly established Consumer Credit Corporation;  N570 billion disbursed to states for livelihood support; new national minimum wage to N70,000; increasing NYSC allowances to N77,000; tariff waivers on food and pharmaceutical imports among others.

Abdul Samad Rabiu the Founder and Chairman, BUA Group in an interview listed what the administration had done right to include the removal of the fuel subsidy which he said was the biggest economic scam in our history. He said the administration unified the foreign exchange market and restored stability, fairness, and confidence in the economy.

“These are the foundations of growth. Nigeria is full of potential. With the right leadership, which we now have, there is no limit to what we can achieve,” Rabiu said.

The Chairman of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote also shared the same view with Rabiu as he described Tinubu as a visionary leader, saying one of the Tinubu administration’s most transformative initiatives is the Naira for Crude Policy.

He said that the policy stood out as a clear testament to the administration’s commitment to economic recovery and national sovereignty.

He said, “This bold policy has enabled us to reduce product prices consistently and guarantee availability for the overall benefit of Nigerians. It has also helped significantly in stabilising the prices of petrol, diesel, jet fuel, LPG, and polypropylene to their lowest levels ever. The effect of this development is the stabilisation of our currency, a critical element in the development of economic policy and budgeting by businesses.”

He also lauded the administration’s Nigeria First Policy, which aimed to drastically reduce reliance on foreign goods and services, prioritising local patronage in investment decisions, business operations, and consumption habits.

Anambra State governor, Prof Charles Soludo from an opposition party also joined the camp of those that believed that Tinubu had been outstanding in the last two years. He said the President’s bold and visionary economic reform policies, have positioned the country on a trajectory of sustainable growth and development, despite temporary setbacks.

He said President Tinubu’s game-changing initiatives, including the removal of fuel subsidies, foreign exchange reforms, and significant investments in infrastructure development, demonstrate his decisive commitment to building a prosperous nation.

MAN SHALL NOT LIVE BY BREAD ALONE

As expected, the administration has not been slack at defending its record with the President dismissing critics of his legacy projects for being ignorant about how the government awarded them to contractors.

The President will be right if he borrows the phrase ‘man shall not live by bread alone’ to defend his administration’s thirst for legacy projects if one should reflect on the past when the country was turned into the dumping ground for imported products with strategic infrastructures left undeveloped.

The administration no doubt has been bullish and performed beyond expectations on infrastructure development if one should reflect on the time that these projects were conceived, like the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway which was said to have been envisioned 47 years ago under the Shagari administration.

Another area where one can argue that the President has also surpassed expectation is the quality of appointment into strategic agencies as he did away with the past culture of mediocre in high places. I had in one of my early series, ‘If I were Tinubu: Setting a Tinubunomic agenda’, wrote that “ The President will need the right professionals to run the oil industry. Specifically, there will be a need for a total overhaul of the system. The new NNPC Limited should be made to advertise the positions of its CEO and other top directors to attract the right professionals from all over the world.”

When the President initially retained the old management of the NNPCL, I had thought that could only happen because he had seen what people from outside could not see. But the dramatic replacement of the management and board which could pass for a corporate coup has been applauded in many quarters as the right thing to do.

On sports, while the Tinubu’s administration has been commended for its development initiatives, particularly the reinstatement of the National Sports Commission (NSC) as the governing body for sports along with the timely payment of bonuses and allowances to athletes, its yet to be seen when these will translate to Nigeria winning medals in international events.

With the government also deserving credit for the bold tax reform agenda which is expected to become more pronounced when the new tax bills are signed into laws, it’s not also too difficult to identify the areas where hope is still hanging in the balance.

For instance, the claim of a repositioned health sector despite all odds has not been felt by a large segment of the masses, so also the initiatives to boost local food production, support farmers, and stabilise food prices have not yielded recognisable results, as the level of hunger in the land is still at the extreme.

Moreover, the government has not been convincing with its programmes to improve electricity supply as the grid keep on suffering multiple collapses, with most people still living with poor supply despite increase in tariff.

Also the blue economy that raised so much hope with the creation of the Marine and Blue Economy ministry has not lived up to the billing, with no sign of definite direction to harness the huge potential in the sector.

While the road infrastructure where huge resources have been committed also hold great prospect for the country, it is understandable that the impact may not be felt in the next one or two years.

TINUBU UNSTOPABLE?

Going forward, it will be difficult to expect any dramatic change in the posture of the president for the rest of his term, more so when the groundwork for his reelection has started.

By now, most Nigerians would have formed their opinions about who the president is, yet no one can absolutely boast that they know him. To say that he is stubborn or brave would be an understatement. Like a script in a mafia book, he has plotted his ways through the political trench to built a cult of followership and emerged as the most powerful and influential leader Nigeria has ever seen. His influence in the National Assembly is overwhelming, which would make it possible for him to push his agenda either legislatively or through Executive Orders. Unlike Obasanjo who would have instigated crisis in order to uproot their leadership as he would not like to share the limelight with anyone, Tinubu has allowed them the room to breath while pulling the string behind the scene to get his ways.

In a congratulatory message to the President on the second anniversary in office, President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio said Tinubu had restored the hope of Nigerians for a viable and sustainable nation through transformative and courageous leadership… he had placed Nigeria on a solid developmental pedestal using the Renewed Hope Agenda as his policy thrust.

There may be likelihood of positivities in the enormous power that the President has amassed if positively deployed as the case of Lee Kuan Yew, the Singapore's first Prime Minister who transformed his nation from a developing country to a developed one through visionary leadership and pragmatic policies between 1959 and 1990. If Tinubu can push through his legacy projects and other reforms, he could achieve the feet of Yew with Nigeria. However, since he is human and as absolute power corrupts, the fear of abuse cannot be overlooked.

The opposition parties that could give him a run for his money are currently in a disarray. One will be expecting more manoeuvring to weakening them and lure away their remaining prominent leaders in the coming months, which will make victory look very obvious for the President in 2027 even if the masses are crying murder.

The minister of Finance and coordinating minister of the Economy, Wale Edun told foreign investors few months ago  that the government through its veracious reforms had laid the foundation that would make the country the desired destination for private investors, saying the country is on the road to 7 per cent annual growth, while the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso, similarly said Nigeria’s economy is on a path of stabilisation and recovery following months of tough but necessary reforms.

With assurances like these coming from government officials while the opposition parties are at disarray with defection waves sweeping through the South South up to the North, Nigerians can only buckle up for the rough ride that may  go beyond 2027, with hope and prayer that light will eventually come at the end of the tunnel.

Muslims the world over have celebrated the Eid-ul-Adha or the “big Eid” or “big Sallah”. We are, however, more interested in its meaning, implications and bearing on us as a nation. We need to look at spiritual milestones, hoping to find the seemingly elusive panacea for our ills.

Eid means feast, festival or celebration, while adha loosely means “sacrifice” (animal sacrifice), “offering” or “oblation”. It got its name because it commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) devotion to Allah (SWT) and his readiness to sacrifice his son, Ismail, for Allah's love.

The Qur’anic story has it that Ibrahim (AS) experienced a dream in which God ordered him to sacrifice his beloved son, Ismail (AS). At first, he was sceptical and believed it was the trickery of the accursed devil. After experiencing the dream the following night, he then understood that it was a message and a command from Allah (SWT). Without hesitation, he prepared his son for the sacrifice. Ibrahim (AS) loved his son dearly, yet this was no obstruction to honouring his duty as instructed by Allah (SWT) and, thus, proving his complete submission to Allah (SWT).

Ibrahim (AS) took his son to the top of Mount Arafat, and in his hands, he had a knife and a rope. Upon arrival, he mentioned the dream to his son Ismail (AS) and made him aware that Allah (SWT) had decreed for him to be a sacrifice, and, in obedience, his son Ismail (AS) accepted what God commanded of him. Ismail (AS) asked that his hands and legs be tied to avoid struggling during the sacrifice and that his father should blindfold himself to avoid witnessing his suffering. Ismail was aware of his father’s love towards him and knew that this would be difficult to witness.

However, as Ibrahim (AS) began performing the sacrifice, Allah (SWT) replaced Ismail with a ram and Ismail (AS) was saved unharmed. Allah (SWT) tested Ibrahim (AS) to see his dedication in his submission (Islam) to his creator. In his willingness to obey Allah’s (SWT) commands, Ibrahim (AS) successfully passed the test, and the act of the sacrifice serves as a reminder of Prophet Ibrahim’s dedication and devotion to serving Allah (SWT) obediently. Therefore, Eid ul-Adha means the festival of sacrifice.

The lesson here is that of sacrifice for a better you. We mostly look at the sacrifice from the point of slaughtering a ram for its meat. Even at that, Islam recommends one to get a healthy, mature and meaty sacrificial lamb that will be a beauty to the eye. Looked at closely, the sacrifice should translate to giving up what one loves in exchange for spiritual upliftment.

Any spiritually uplifted man will spread love around. He will not be where there is injustice. He will not be a party to corrupt activities. Above all, that man will not be where another human being is being harmed. Humanity will be safe with him. If the Nigerian Muslims who participated in Eid-ul-Adha take to heart the spirit behind the event, our country will be better than it is now.

It is a sacrifice in self-immolation that can only be compared to the myth of the Thornbird in the fictional book The Thorn Birds, a 1977 bestseller by Colleen McCullough. She set the story in Drogheda, a town that does not exist in Australia. In the front matter of the book, the myth is set out thus: There is a legend about a bird which sings just once in its life, more sweetly than any other creature on the face of the earth. From the moment it leaves the nest, it searches for a thorn tree and does not rest until it has found one. Then, singing among the savage branches, it impales itself upon the longest, sharpest spine. And, dying, it rises above its agony to out-carol the lark and the nightingale—one superlative song, existence the price. But the whole world stills to listen, and God in His heaven smiles. For the best is only brought at the cost of great pain. Or so says the legend.

The spirit of Eid ul-Adha teaches us to sacrifice ourselves for God. Ismail (AS) was part of Ibrahim (AS); do not forget. By sacrificing his son, he was also sacrificing himself.

Nigeria, now more than ever in its history, needs citizens who are willing to make sacrifices for its existence. We should frown at a situation where leaders will call on us to change while they indulge in the perfidies associated with our leaders of old.

It is not fair, nor is it right, for leaders to ask followers to tighten their belts while they punch more holes in theirs to accommodate their ever-bulging bellies.

It is also not indicative of leaders with a spirit of sacrifice when they send their children to the best schools around, while the public schools are often little better than pigsties.

The spirit of sacrifice is undoubtedly lacking in leaders who, together with their families, can access the best Medicare, while a larger portion of the population lacks access to basic healthcare facilities.

How can a good Muslim’s conscience not disturb him when he buys good exam results or bribes for his child to get a well-paying job? Why should a good Muslim be happy when he collects money to pass a student or to give him a job?

We are talking about Muslims as citizens because we are referring to an Islamic event that just happened.

However, upon reflection, Christianity also attaches great importance and symbolism to sacrifices. Theirs is even directly and practically connotative of the denial of comfort. Their form of sacrifice focuses on the bodies of their members as a living sacrifice.

I believe all Christians understand Christ’s death on the cross to be a necessary atonement for the sins of humankind. And if it were so, why should a Christian run away from discomforting himself for God to be happy with him?

In reality, all those who make up a nation must sacrifice for the country to be great. All religions teach us to sacrifice, and all our tribes have stories of legends who sacrificed their happiness for that tribe to survive.

The problem with Nigeria, as my friend Barrister Okoroafor Vincent always insists, is not the North, as some Southerners would want us to believe, or the South, as some Northerners would insist. He thinks it is not even Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, Ijaw, Tiv, etc. He is also adamant that it is neither Islam nor Christianity. The problem with Nigeria, he opines, is individual selfishness and self-centeredness that border on ‘it is our turn to chop’ and myopia in prioritising the self over the nation. All people from the tribes have that tendency, which is exhibited by adherents of both religions.

The lawyer says that if we can put Nigeria first as our collective interest, then we will have a great nation. I cannot agree more.

Today's commissioning of this e-Health Project at the State Specialist Hospital, Akure, Ondo State, attests to our collective efforts to harness the power of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to improve and revolutionise the health sector in Nigeria in a manner that better serves citizens.

The completion of this e-Health Project is a testament to the Nigerian Communications Commission’s commitment to driving innovation, research, and growth in our nation's digital economy. This is two-pronged. First, ICT can better integrate the health sector into the digital economy to enjoy the ubiquity that other sectors of the economy already benefit from. Secondly, healthy citizens contribute better to the digital economy even as they access care from e-health platforms. We thus enhance the quality of medical services and ensure that services are accessible to all, regardless of geographical location, by integrating advanced ICT solutions into healthcare.

We are hopeful that with its successful take-off, this project will further promote the Commission’s drive to speed up the adoption of ICT in the health sector. The implementation of e-health solutions will streamline medical processes, enhance patient care, and facilitate the efficient management of health records.

With the State Specialist Hospital in Akure now equipped with innovative technology that enables healthcare professionals to deliver timely and accurate diagnoses, treatment plans, and follow-up care, we expect that these will improve patient satisfaction and positive health outcomes. This is because the benefits of this project go beyond the hospital walls to the larger community and set a precedent for other healthcare institutions nationwide.

Ladies and gentlemen, as we commission this project today, we want to reaffirm our commitment to collaboration and partnership. The project succeeded because of stakeholders who worked with NCC, including technology experts and the government. This collaboration has created a model that can be replicated and scaled to other regions, ensuring that the advantages of ICT in healthcare are felt nationwide. 

Let me conclude by expressing my heartfelt gratitude to all our stakeholders who have contributed to the realisation of this project. Your dedication, expertise, and support have been instrumental in bringing this vision to life. It is through such collaborative endeavours that we can continue to drive progress and innovation in our country. 

On this note, I hereby commission this e-Health project.

Thank you. 

Credit NCC PR

Last week was a dark one for journalism in Nigeria. The light of two of its bright stars, Amina Alhassan Ahman and Haruna Dauda Biu dimmed and blew out. Amina was cast in the print section of the profession, while Haruna was a star in broadcast journalism.

I first noticed Amina in 2014 at a Leadership Newspaper editorial meeting for editors and senior editorial management staff. The meeting, held every Monday, had each editor defending their paper comparatively against its counterparts from other media houses. Friday Leadership, for instance, would be compared against every paper around the country published on the same day.

Amina was a striking lady with a queenly pose who had a masterful command of English, spoken with the inflexion of the British tone. If you were in another room and overheard her speak, you might assume a Briton was speaking next door.

As a diplomat’s daughter, she had the opportunity to study at Kuwait English School (KES) when her late father, Yahya Alhassan, was an Ambassador in the country. And in her gait and carriage, you would know she was a polished individual.

Haruna, the Voice of America (Hausa Service) Reporter for Borno and Yobe States, was a gentleman of the first order. And humble, too. I would call him “maci gauta”, or “garden egg eater”, because the Babur, the tribe he belonged to in Biu Local Government in Borno State, are known to consider the small bitter types of garden eggs a delicacy, sometimes eaten with pepper. He always answered respectfully.

In life, only Allah knows how every one of us will end our lives. A seemingly inconsequential sickness, thought to be high blood pressure, escalated into something else that caused him partial paralysis. The last time we spoke, he told me he had just returned from a Cairo hospital facilitated by the Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum.

Amina’s case differed; she did not tell close friends about her ailment. I am still at a loss as to why she hid it. Being the considerate and kind-hearted person she was, was it that she did not want to bother people or be seen as a liability? She must have been seriously bedridden six months ago, as the mammary cancer spread to her brain about that time. According to one of her sons, she was diagnosed with it about three years ago, but she would not go for chemotherapy until it spread.

After her death, I went through our chats to see if she had left me any hints, and I saw our SMS chat of 12 September 2022. I sent her a message that a man with a so-and-so number had called me from Alliance Hospital regarding her request for an interview on something related to cancer. And she replied to me, “Oh, yes. That must be the MD. I’ll call him, thank you.”

That was the closest I came to associating her with cancer. At the time, she was my staff. She was an editor and rose to become Neptune Prime’s chief operating officer because of her diligence, dedication, and loyalty. She was the type who was ready to take the flak for others if anything went wrong.

As the publisher, you could understand if I assumed she wanted to interview the MD for our paper because she drove our newspaper's content direction and editorial policy. After her death, I realised that she wanted to consult a specialist.

As I said, we first met at Leadership Newspaper. She was a features editor, and I was the stable’s Friday title editor. In 2014, I became the spokesman for Dr Abdu Bulama, minister of science and technology, and she was made acting editor in my place. She also rose to become editor of the weekend edition and a member of the newspaper’s editorial board.

Our paths crossed again when I floated Neptune Prime, an online newspaper, in 2016; she was no longer with Leadership. The rest, as is often said, is history.

While I was not very close to Haruna, who was Maiduguri-based, from my few interactions with him and the testimonies of friends, journalism has lost a gem, and humanity has lost a part of it.

As for Amina, I knew her as a very compassionate, thoughtful, considerate, morally upright lady who was chaste and mindful of how God and society would look at her. Her British-intoned “assalamu alaikum” rings in the ears always. She is not just a loss to journalism but to humanity at large.

May Amina Alhassan Ahman be in Jannatul Firdaus with her late father and beloved husband, and may Haruna Dauda Biu find favour with Allah (SWT).

Insecurity, Our Immigration, Our Airports

Last week, many Nigerians heard the news that the wife and mother of Ado Aleiro, a bandit kingpin making life a living hell for Nigerians in the Zamfara axis, were apprehended. Please wait for it; the arrest was made in Madina. No, not Gusau! Not at any of our airports. Not by the Immigration officers who processed their passports and were at the airports to monitor travellers. Our NDLEA officials were napping. DSS? No, Patrick Utomi has taken their attention. Where were the police, NSCDC, FAAN and NAHCO officials?

But that is not even the worst part of it. Wait and watch. No heads would roll. And so, there is no “medicine” against future occurrences.

Don’t Tax Us Out of Business

Last week, at the 2025 Taraba International Investment Summit, Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man, disclosed that foreign investors would come without invitation if local investors were treated well, that is, “if they were making a good profit to offset the cost of production.”

He said that for every ₦1 he or any investor made, 52 kobo went to the Federal Government as tax. He should know because, last year, the Dangote Group and its subsidiaries paid over ₦402.3 billion in taxes, making them the highest taxpayers in Nigeria.

Surely, there would be serious problems in our economic development if entrepreneurs who invest their resources to create employment opportunities for our teeming populations are taxed out of business. What of the wise saying not to kill the goose that lays the golden eggs?

What happens when legacy meets preparedness? What results from such a combination? Let us not be in a hurry to put forward any answers yet. Instead, let us consider first the opposite situation: When legacy meets unpreparedness.

The world abounds in examples of this distressing situation. A dynasty that has built wealth from generation to generation, with its illustrious heirs providing generational leadership, finds itself in a strange phase where an ill-prepared heir takes over the reins and in that same generation, not the next, wipes out the entire family fortune built over several generations.

We see the same thing with nations. History is replete with examples of great nations built by great leaders, which slid into oblivion when they were hit by arguably the greatest misfortune that ever befalls humanity – bad leadership. It is the reason American author and leadership expert John Maxwell asserts, “Everything rises and falls with leadership.”

As with nations, so with organisations. We see organisations that have thrived for decades and over several generations, get a new leader who is not prepared for such leadership, and the leader pushes the organisation to the brink of collapse.

Contrast this picture with the situation at Nigeria’s most enduring corporate organisation with the most amazing legacies of firsts, First Bank of Nigeria Limited, which witnessed a leadership transition about a year ago. Faced with a number of quality options in and outside the then management team, the decision-makers at the bank and its parent company FBNHoldings, now First HoldCo Plc, had to be clear-minded about who could become the new Chief Executive Officer of FirstBank Group.

Equally important as the need for continuity was the non-negotiable requirement for capacity to manage the ship of the 130-years-plus institution to sustain its enviable legacies and consolidate the gains made in recent years. The search was for someone with a steady head and hands (talk of risk control and mitigation), in addition to an excellent track record of sterling performance and achievements.

Fortunately, fate was on their side. They did not have to look outside. Right there before them was someone who understood all kinds of risks and how to control and mitigate them. He had been with FirstBank since 2016 when he joined as Group Executive / Chief Risk Officer. Then in January 2022 he was elevated to Executive Director / Chief Risk Officer and Executive Compliance Officer.

This man has given nearly three decades of his working life to the banking and financial services industry. He has under his belt a rich tapestry of cross-functional experience in credit risk management, financial planning and control, credit and marketing, and trade. His cross-functional exposure also includes corporate and commercial banking, agriculture financing, oil and gas, transportation, including aviation and shipping, and project financing

Meet Olusegun Alebiosu, the man history had prepared and the one decision-makers chose among the quality options. He was appointed substantive Chief Executive Officer of FirstBank Group in June 2024, having acted in that capacity since April 2024 when the former CEO left.  

Determined to build on the bank’s legacies while navigating the ever-changing landscape of the financial services industry, Alebiosu has shown unwavering commitment to lead the bank through a transformative period that places emphasis on strategic consolidation, technological advancement and market expansion.

Alebiosu’s approach to sustaining the legacies of firsts at FirstBank, which has been at the vanguard of accelerating Nigeria’s digital payments as the first bank to issue over 13 million cards to customers, draws from his vast professional experience which began with Oceanic Bank Plc, now Ecobank Plc, in 1991. Between then and joining FirstBank in 2016, he had worked at Coronation Merchant Bank as Chief Risk Officer, at African Development Bank Group as Chief Credit Risk Officer and at United Bank for Africa as Group Head, Credit Policy and Deputy Chief Credit Risk Officer.

Under one year of his appointment as substantive CEO of FirstBank, Alebiosu’s strategic consolidation efforts have demonstrated that he is a worthy successor, not an ill-prepared or unprepared one, proving the decision-makers right. Understanding the critical role of its human capital in sustaining the bank’s legacies, Alebiosu has invested himself and the bank’s resources in promoting staff welfare.

A comprehensive review of the bank’s compensation structure was undertaken to position it within the 75th percentile of the industry, making the bank more retentive of, and attractive to, the best talents. The highest number of staff promotions across various grades in the last five years has happened under Alebiosu’s watch, with 1,654 employees being elevated in one single promotion cycle.

Under his leadership, over 2,186 new hires have been recruited across key functions and subsidiaries, with a large number of them deployed to the sales function to ensure that retail customers are adequately served. Staff are now more engaged based on the high employee engagement score of 86% achieved in the April 2025 WorkBuzz survey, indicating remarkable progress in the bank’s multi-pronged efforts to promote a positive and inclusive workplace culture.

This drive to reinforce a culture of inclusion and recognition has been accentuated by the launch of a group-wide culture transformation initiative with the goal of embedding the core values of integrity, excellence and innovation. It has also been strengthened by a renewed focus on inclusion, collaboration and high performance. Also contributing was the staging of a FirstBank Employee Appreciation Day 2025 featuring, among others, a personalised appreciation video message from the CEO to all employees across the group throughout Africa and beyond. The inclusion message is further boosted by the launch of the inaugural edition of the bank’s pioneering initiative, Mandarin Language School, to bolster the bank’s expansion in the Asian market.

Expansion is a critical plank in FirstBank’s new strategic planning horizon, under Alebiosu’s leadership. Taking off this 2025, the plan seeks to reinforce the bank’s market dominance across all operational regions and it includes deliberate expansion into new markets within and outside Africa.

Beyond geographical and horizontal expansion, Alebiosu’s plan has also targeted a skyward expansion. Or how else does one describe the groundbreaking ceremony in March 2025 for the bank’s new green-certified, 44-storey iconic head office building in Eko Atlantic City, Lagos State?

Alebiosu is also prioritising the acceleration of process automation in recognition of the importance of digital transformation. It is a massive push for technological advancement that includes adopting robotics technology and artificial intelligence at scale, to give the bank an unassailable competitive advantage among its peers in the industry.

The bank has deployed digital tools to enhance seamless account opening and optimised backend systems and customer service delivery. Two additional Digital Experience Centres (DXCs) have been launched – one at Lekki Admiralty Way, Lagos State and the other at its UNN branch, Nsukka, Enugu State. Also, the bank’s agent network has expanded to over 280,000, a 50,000 increase from the 230,000 agents it had in 2023.

As expected, shareholders, among other stakeholders, have been observing the strides the bank has been making under Alebiosu’s leadership, with a keen eye on the numbers. Fortunately, again, the bank’s results for the financial year ended December 2024 speak volumes, with after-tax profit of its parent company rising to the highest point it has reached in the last 12 years, according to the company’s latest financial statement.

In recognition of his achievements within such a short period and his exemplary leadership, Alebiosu was honoured at the World Business Outlook Awards as “Banking CEO of the Year – Nigeria 2025”. He has also been honoured with the “Special African Banking Leadership Award” by African Leadership Magazine. This was in 2024.

The story of Alebiosu’s leadership at FirstBank has clearly been one of preparedness meeting legacy. Working with the board and management team, he has consistently sustained the bank’s legacies and also consolidated its recent gains in ways that will ensure the gains keep compounding. FirstBank, more than ever before, is poised for greater intra- and intercontinental growth and impact in the years ahead.

Credit: First Bank PR

The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Aminu Maida recently paid a Benchmarking Visit to Ghana where he had a mutually beneficial Meeting with the Acting Director General of the National Communications Authority (NCA), Edmund Fianko.

Credit: NCC PR

About three weeks ago, President Bola Tinubu was in Katsina, where he charged the Nigerian Army to end the terrorism menace and reclaim every inch of the nation's territory. He also strongly warned: "Let the enemies of Nigeria know — their time is up."

After other state engagements, he honoured an invitation to attend the wedding of Governor Dikko Radda's daughter — an event where guests were treated to lavish entertainment. Recall that the Governor, about two months earlier, had lost his beloved mother.

Were Hajiya Sarafa'u Umaru, who died at the age of 93, to be asked, she would have said her death should not stop or even delay the marriage of her granddaughter. It is only that her children, having witnessed the deaths of loved ones over time, may ask themselves, "Why engage in vanity and vainglory? How would I feel if Mama looked down from the Lord's bosom and saw me gathering the world to dance on her fresh grave?"

Be that as it may, biki ya yi biki, as the Hausa are wont to say. Mr. President was there, and many side attractions showcased power, such as when an Emir's guards broke through a door shut to latecomers, simply because an Emir never turns back from obstacles.

Musicians regaled everyone, but the doyen, Dauda Kahutu Rarara, stole the show when he even made President Tinubu laugh in admiration with beautiful lyrics in Yoruba.

Forget that at the height of the insurgency, when former President Goodluck Jonathan went to Kano — not for any festivity like the one witnessed — and danced on stage, Rarara sang a song, Mai Malafa yaje Kano (Hat-wearing Man was in Kano), that trended against the man who grew up without shoes.

Katsina, the state of former President Muhammadu Buhari, has been engulfed in recent times by a cloud of insecurity. Banditry and kidnapping have become daily occurrences, relegating previously serious crimes like robbery to the background.

Just last week, residents of Tashar Kaɗanya in Ƙankara Local Government Area were thrown into despair after bandits imposed a ₦60 million levy on the community, threatening an attack on the people if they do not meet the demand. Faskari, Bakori, Malumfashi, Musawa, and Dan Musa Local Governments border Ƙankara. On its southern edge lies Zamfara State.

Why wouldn't they panic when over three hundred boys from Government Science Secondary School, Kankara, were kidnapped on 11 December 2020 and released some nine days later, after ransom was paid, according to The Wall Street Journal (WSJ), which interviewed some of them?

Many communities in Katsina are isolated, having been cut off because linkage roads are now inaccessible, taken over by bandits who are interrelated with Boko Haram. In many areas, bandits appoint community heads and collect taxes. People pay them to be allowed to farm and, again, to be allowed to harvest.

Just last Friday, a traditional ruler, Malam Sani Dandada, the Madawakin Fawa of Faskari, who was kidnapped on his way from Daura on 19 April, was found dead, despite full ransom payment.

Katsina is now synonymous with banditry. It has become so pervasive that some unscrupulous civil servants, politicians, women of easy virtue, security agents, traditional rulers, and others from across all segments of society work with the bandits.

During a media briefing on the International Day of Education (IDE) in January, the UNICEF Chief of Kano Field Office, Rahama Mohammed-Farah, revealed that the North-West had the second-highest number of out-of-school children in Nigeria, after the North-East.

About 10.2 million children at the primary level are out of school in Nigeria. Sixteen per cent of them are from Kano, Jigawa, and Katsina States — with Katsina alone having 536,112 out-of-school children," he said. Already, 38% of school-aged children in the state lack access to education.

Katsina State, including its capital city, also faces significant challenges in providing potable water. This lack of consistent, safe water access leads to various health, social, and economic problems. According to data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), 61% of households in the state lack access to sanitary facilities, and 39% lack access to clean drinking water. The NBS data also shows that there are 2.8 million poor persons in Katsina out of a population of around 9.3 million.

Have we ever stopped to ask ourselves about the correlation between extravagance by public office holders and the lack of employment, the production of unemployable citizens, poor health facilities, and other essential social amenities? Or the relationship between all these and the surge in all types of crimes?

Yet our ruling elite and public commentators did not look at the Katsina extravaganza through this lens. Instead, they opened a debate on who the best Hausa musician is between the late Mamman Shata and Rarara — a needless discussion akin to comparing Pele and Cristiano Ronaldo, each defined by their time, circumstances, and environment.

As long as we don't hold those to whom we entrust the key to our treasury accountable — as long as we get carried away by their excesses, clapping for them and floating on the crest of their diversionary indulgences — they will continue to consider us their lapdogs, tossing us bones to keep us at bay.

It's high time we demanded accountability and transparency from our leaders, for the sake of our children and the children of their children.

Gentlemen of the press, it is with deep feelings and a high sense of responsibility that I address you today on the subject of the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) results, which has generated some traction in public discourse and social space. I want to begin by appreciating you for gathering here today, especially to the press, whose extensive coverage has highlighted the release of the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) results, formally announced on Friday, 9th May 2025.  Similarly, we appreciate all those who have lent their voices to the strident complaints on the results we released because you all did so out of concern. I appreciate our critics immensely because they could have chosen to be indifferent. I agree with the person who said that the opposite of love isn’t hate, it is indifference; the opposite of art is not ugliness, it is indifference; the opposite of faith is not heresy, it is indifference; and the opposite of life is not death, it is indifference. By not being indifferent to JAMB, we are grateful.

Today marks a moment we shall not soon forget - a day that should have been filled with celebration for what was, until recently, regarded as our most successful UTME exercise. Regrettably, this joy has been overshadowed by an easily avoidable error by one or two persons.  

Without equivocation, there has been a lot of hoopla since the results of 2025 UTME were released last Friday, 9th May 2025. Despite the fact that JAMB is a responsive organisation, the unusual level of public concerns and loud complaints has prompted us to do an immediate audit or review of what happened, which we ordinarily would have done in June. I want to make it clear that our review and investigation reveal that there are grounds for the complaints about our 2025 UTME results and this press conference is convened with a view to unveiling the bitter truth of our findings openly and objectively. 

We are all human after all but before any other thing, it is imperative that I shed light on the extent that JAMB goes to ensure quality in its processes and activities. 

2.0 JAMB and Quality Assurance

Gentlemen of the press, quality assurance is cardinal to the operations of JAMB. I can assure you that we scale all heights, fathom all depths and traverse all horizons to ascertain that quality assurance mechanisms permeate all our operations from the take off point to the finish line. We burn the midnight oil and we set our standards high. This is why we have guidelines, checklists and protocol guiding our activities right from the time of registration to the points of monitoring and supervision to the processing of results. 

As we know we cannot clap with our sole hand as a single entity, we have several committees in place that are part of our quality assurance system. There are Peace Monitors, of 41 women of substance who are or have been Principal Officers of Nigerian universities; we have Chief External Examiners (CEEs), who are Vice-Chancellors, Rectors and Provosts of universities, polytechnics and Colleges of Education. Each state also has Chief Technical Adviser, a reputable professor who is an expert in computing and cybersecurity. We have Peace Monitors, Civil Society Group, Equal Opportunity Group, the General Monitors Group, High-powered Opinion Leaders, the Roving Group, Technical Advisors Group and the Virtues Vanguards. All of these groups play critical roles and complement our staff in ensuring quality and troubleshooting challenges.

Furthermore, we also have an in-house consultant and expert in software development and cybersecurity. Besides, we have introduced mock examinations since 2017 as primarily a quality assurance measure to test our systems and intervene where necessary prior to the time of our examinations, knowing the nature of technology.  Our Technical Officers annually take tests before the successful ones are deployed to the field so that at no point would incompetence set in. All our examination officials are profiled with their NINs to ensure efficiency and accountability. We also have a robust team of in-house electronic testing experts led by a renowned professor of Software Engineering. 

We deploy our systems to the use of high-profile organisations within and outside Nigeria as part of the broader strategy of ensuring that everything works well when we need it to work. As part of our preparations for this year, we upgraded our system from form-based to the single item-based examination, the latter of which is the international standard now. We simulated this system, streamlined our Autobot and Autotest systems and still went ahead to develop our own JAMBTEST, a software innovated in-house by a small team led by own staff, Dubem. We improved on the examination system, simulated everything end-to-end before the examinations and we thought everything was perfect. All the layers, including using dummies, were deployed this year but despite that, an error happened. It is a classical manifestation of the axiom that man proposes but God disposes.

3.0 Between KAD and LAG

Let me disclose part of how we operate in JAMB for the first time in public. Conscious of the fault-lines of Nigeria, we use two operational ‘vehicles’ to traverse Nigeria under the code names of KAD and LAG. The KAD vehicle contains the Northern states excluding Kano, Katsina, Jigawa, Niger, Kogi and FCT but it includes the six South South states. The LAG vehicle, on the other hand, consists of Southern states excluding the 6 South South states but it includes Kano, Katsina, Jigawa, Niger, Kogi and FCT. These ‘vehicles’ are deployed to serve Nigerians as a whole, the South being part of the North and the North being part of the South.  So, there is no distinct North or South.

After the mock examinations this year, we reviewed our LAG (which includes South West and South East states as earlier indicated) and KAD examination engines.  We realised that in the LAG category, options to the items of our examinations were not shuffled. We insisted that the shuffling must be effected. After this was done, we tested the update as usual and we were satisfied. We thereafter still did what we call dummy, a simulation, a day before the examinations and everything seemed to be okay. In other words, we believed we were ready to deploy the items after some layers of testing the processes.

However, on the second day of the examinations this year, which was Friday April 25, 2025, we discovered that there was some omission in the items within the LAG category. An update for correction and grading adjustment was instantly made and it was tested on Saturday, Sunday and Monday. The update was applied after 12 a.m. on Tuesday morning and it was successful. That was why all the examinations from Tuesday till the end of UTME had no problem. To correct and re-upload the responses (i.e. results) from LAG for the pre-Tuesday glitch, the service providers concerned with LAG were deployed to effect the patch but there were patch errors in some centres (servers) for the first three or four days in only two locations.  In simple terms, while 65 centres (206,610 candidates) were affected in Lagos zone (comprising only Lagos state), 92 centres (173,387 candidates) were affected in Owerri zone, which includes the South East states.  In clear terms, in the process of rectifying the issue, the technical personnel deployed by the Service Provider for LAG (Lagos and South-East zones) inadvertently failed to update some of the delivery servers. Regrettably, this oversight went undetected prior to the release of the results.

Recall that last year, we overhauled our reporting system, which made obvious what has not caught much public attention and thus sparked significant backlash from the Nigerian public. In response to widespread concerns about what many referred to as a “failure rate,” we made adjustments this year.  Only professional educators who know the difference between achievement test and selection test (which UTME ranking test is) were not concerned, we felt with adjustment made during the preparation, better performance statistics will emerge.  We were therefore not surprised when the best score in 2025 (374) was the best highest in the last one and half decades.

The examinations were concluded on Wednesday and the results were ready. By the time the results were generically analysed, they did not depart radically from the tradition of the previous 12 years except that we gladly noticed improvement in the highest scorer. But contrary to our prediction, there was none in the overall as the performance was sadly poorer than that of last year; yet everything fell within the range of the existing pattern.

COMPARISON OF UTME RESULTS SINCE INCEPTION (2013)

Between Friday and Monday, the uproar could be said to have reached the highest decibel and it was coming from some respected voices in the society. Though JAMB usually responds to every complaint based on its merit, the nature of the clamour this time made us to fast-track the review process, a post-mortem analysis of the results that we would have done next month.

4.0 A Meeting of Minds

On the morning of Monday, May 12 2025, we issued a tentative press statement which includes “… If it is determined that there were indeed glitches, we will implement appropriate remedial measures promptly, as we do in the case of the examinations themselves.”  Apart from officials of JAMB and other Government agencies, such as, Nigeria Education and Research Development Council (NERDC), we also summoned some experts and professionals who graciously responded to us, including a renowned professor of psychometrics and esteemed expert in Test and Measurement, who is from Imo state, Prof. Boniface Nworgu; a technical advisor and expert from the Computer Professionals Council of Nigeria (CPN), Prof. Adenike Osofisan; a CPN Representative, Mr Bayo Onimode; the President of the Nigerian Academy of Education, Prof. Kabiru Isyaku; the National Parent-Teacher Association of Nigeria, the National Association of Nigerian Students,  among others. We immensely appreciate them for heeding our distress call.

Within 24 hours of rigorous work, we were able to isolate where the problem emanated from. It happened in 65 centres in Lagos and 92 centres in Owerri zone. In these centres, the patch was not properly applied in some centre servers by the service provider and that failure disrupted the upload of the candidates’ responses within the first three or four days, as applicable to Lagos and Owerri zones. The 2025 UTME that could have been our finest yet, were it not for the carelessness, negligence, and lack of concern exhibited by the agents entrusted with this crucial yet straightforward function.  Immediately we realised this, we summoned the Chief External Examiners of Lagos, Imo, Anambra, Oyo, Abia and Ebonyi, the six states affected. Fortunately, they all swiftly responded to join the group. We also invited Prof. Bashir Galadanchi, a leading expert in Computer Science; the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPSS), which was represented by a leading voice in public advocacy, Dr. (Mrs) Bukola Dosumu. A number of our vocal critics were also invited to the interaction such that we could jointly and sincerely examine the situation.

Despite being able to identify the source of the problem and the affected centres, we are conscious of the painful damage it has inflicted on the reputation of JAMB. As Registrar of JAMB, I hold myself personally responsible, including for the negligence of the service provider, and I unreservedly apologise for it and the trauma that it has subjected affected Nigerians to, directly and indirectly.  Once again, we apologise and assure you that this incident represents a significant setback for the Board’s reputation. We remain committed to emerging stronger in our core values of transparency, fairness, and equity.  It is our culture to admit error because we know that in spite of the best of our efforts, we are human, we are not perfect.  The only consolation we have in this case is that it is just one of the two service providers that did not do well by uploading improperly but it was not a case of glitches nor sabotage. 

By Tuesday morning, with the CEEs, the experts and Mr Osita Chidoka (a former Minister of Aviation) of Athena Centre, we selected samples of responses and reviewed.  We compared the results and we are finding interesting correlations except in the 157 centers where distortions had occurred.

We unanimously agreed that each state of the Federation be sampled. No sign of any abnormality so far has been detected in any centre outside the ones mentioned and the laborious exercise is ongoing. 

5.0 No Problem without a Solution

We have decided that all the candidates affected in the 157 centres out of 882 centres will be contacted to retake their examinations starting from Friday, May 16, 2025. These candidates are to be contacted through text messages addressed to their registered phone numbers, their email addresses, their profiles and phone calls by JAMB. They are directed to reprint their Examination Slips for the rescheduled examination dates. 

While not oblivious of the fact that WAEC examinations are ongoing, we have contacted WAEC and in an unprecedented show of solidarity, the Council has graciously decided to as much as possible accommodate us within the WAEC time-slot.  Any candidate with a clash of timetable, particularly for Agricultural Science on Friday, would be rescheduled.  However, we have endeavored to ensure that no such exist.  Most, if not all, such candidates are scheduled for Saturday.  Fortunately, the prescribed texts for SSCE are also the prescribed texts for UTME apart from the reading text of the UTME, which carries just 10 marks in our Use of English test. 

6.0 Appeal, Appreciation and Apology

I understand that there are three powerful expressions which contain one word, two words and three words respectively. They are please, thank you and I am sorry. So, I appeal to the candidates and those affected by the error of our system to accept this explanation as the truth of the matter without embellishment, PLEASE.  I apologise and take full responsibility not just in words.

Then, I want to say a big THANK YOU to the Honourable Minister of Education for his unwavering belief in JAMB and what the Board stands for. I also appreciate all officers and officials who believe in us for their goodwill in the face of this challenge. We have vowed to uphold integrity as the abiding philosophy of JAMB and we won’t waver or depart from it despite the fact that we are not infallible. I am equally grateful to all stakeholders who have lent us their support and expertise in arriving at a logical conclusion that we have arrived at. And for the inconveniencies, once again, on behalf of JAMB, I say, I AM SORRY to all Nigerians.

The astronomical rise in banks’ profits as reflected in the 2024 full year financial report has exposed the banking industry as a lucrative enterprise powered by arbitrary charges imposed on unwilling customers.  In some cases, these inexplicable charges and other unholy electronic deductions, leave customers to reel on the throes of pains, with impact on their blood.

That the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has been penalising the banks for flouting stipulated guidelines as contained in its “Guide to Charges by Banks, Other Financial, and Non-bank Financial Institutions", is a confirmation that these banks deliberately use arbitrary and excessive charges to fleece customers, obviously to boost profitability. 

Since these painful charges constitute part of the big profits made by banks at the expense of customers, they are likened to blood profits.  Like blood money which is obtained at the expense of another’s man’s life, blood profits are earnings gained by banks at the cost of customers’ blood.   

In context, blood here refers to the sweat, sacrifice, pains, frustration and helplessness customers go through when deductions veiled in hidden and arbitrary charges are made on their accounts.  In other words, bank earnings are tantamount to blood profits when viewed against the backdrop of resultant pains suffered by helpless customers who bear the brunt of arbitrary charges.  

These charges are embedded in crazy debits alerts sent through SMS notifications and emails, and sometimes, they are delivered incoherently, in arrears or at odd hours, perhaps, to shield or distract customers from scrutinizing the alerts.  Besides causing general body imbalance, the charges also trigger mood swings and countenance upset among customers, once received. 

Some of these crazy charges include, but not limited to commission on turnover, withdrawal fees, transfer charges, electronic money transfer, processing fees, VAT charges, ATM fees, debit or credit cards issuance, replacement or renewal fees, account maintenance fees, NIP transfer charges, SMS alert charges, stamp duty fees, interest charges, SMS VAT charges, hardware token charges, cybersecurity levy, bills payment fees, and other random levies. 

Besides, the CBN’s recent introduction of on-site and off-site charges during cash withdrawals at ATM machines, is also unhelpful and inimical to current plight of bank customers, who are now compelled to pay withdrawal fees for use of ATM machines owned by banks other than theirs.  But where such transactions are carried out in customers’ own banks, such transactions attract no charges.  This introduction is coming on the heels of a fresh increase of SMS alerts charges from N4 to N6 per transaction, further compounding the woes of customers. 

Implicitly, these charges constitute huge burden on the average bank customer who contends daily with depletion in his or her account balances.  Corporate customers or businesses are also not spared from these questionable charges that have become a drain on the balance-sheet of companies.  

With about 312 million active accounts bank-wide as at December 2024, these irrational charges have contributed immensely to the bottom line, occupying a larger space in the profit basket of banks, dislodging loans and foreign exchange sources of profits, which have diminished overtime by high-interest rate regime and prevailing foreign exchange dynamics.  

For example, from the 2024 financial year report of just five of the tier 1 banks, the profit growth rose enormously with pre-tax profit hitting N4.56 trillion, approximately 69.5 percent increase compared to N2.69 trillion declared in 2023, while their net profit after tax rose by 66.2 percent in 2024, amounting to N3.78 trillion, as against N2.27 trillion recorded in 2023.

These five tier 1 banks, whose total combined assets in 2024 reached N108.21 trillion, from just N72.80 trillion recorded in 2023, include First Holdco Plc, GTCO Plc, Zenith Bank Plc, UBA Plc, and Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc.

Specifically, First Holdco grew its profit before tax to N862.39 billion in 2024 from N356.15 recorded in 2023, just as its profit after tax rose to N736.7 billion in 2024 from N308.4 billion it earned in 2023. GTCO on the other hand, grew its pre-tax profit from N609.3 billion in 2023 to N1.27 trillion in 2024, with its net profit rising to N1.02 trillion in 2024 from N529.66 billion made in 2023.  

Also, Zenith Bank grew its profit before tax to N1.33 trillion in 2024 from N795.96 billion recorded in 2023, just as its profit after tax rose from N676.9 billion in 2023 to N1.03 trillion in 2024. Similarly, UBA grew its pre-tax profit to N803.72 billion in 2024 from N757.68 billion it recorded in 2023, with its net profit increased from N607.7 billion in 2023 to N766.6 billion in 2024.

In the same vein, Stanbic IBTC Holdings reported a profit before tax of N303.8 billion in 2024 from N172.91 billion it made in 2023.  Its profit after tax rose to N225.3 billion in 2024, compared to N140.62 it recorded in 2023.  

With charges as sources of cheap revenue, banks are no longer motivated to embark on constructive and creative efforts in their quest for profit generation.  Profits gained from matching of deposit funds against credit lending in consonant with traditional banking, are now waning.  Perhaps, this explains the drop in number of banks’ female employees deployed to chase depositors for cheap funds.

Though, lacking ingenuity and industry, use of charges as sources of cheap profits, can make the ordinary businessman to be envious of bank owners.  Even Aliko Dangote, as the richest man in Africa, perhaps, may be regretting for allowing his bank, Liberty Merchant Bank, to go under, just like previous bank owners whose banks have closed shop.  Their banks might have been sources of value addition to their wealth.   

Regrettably, rather than portray the banks in positive light, these colossal profits shunned out by Nigerian banks, are stirring negative public perception about their operational methods, believed generally to be unhelpful to individual and business ventures, particularly, small and medium business enterprises.   

The Federal Government and CBN are complicit in this unjustifiable charges and levies.  Reason: the Federal Government recently received approximately N84.05 billion from Electronic Money Transfer Levy alone in the first quarter of this year, 2025.  This is unhealthy, and a nightmare for the average Nigerian bank customer, who sees it as sheer extortion. 

Since the government is a direct beneficiary of these charges, CBN may have been reluctant to  exercise strict and regular oversight over the banks on compliance with its guidelines.  And this may have unwittingly, encouraged the banks to thrive in unbridled manner, particularly, in “under the table transactions.”  These boom and windfall profits would have been near impossible under a sane financial environment typified by global best banking practices.

So, while the banks jubilate for a job well done for full year 2024 financial reports, the real sector and individual customers for which the banks were established to support, groan and suffocate in pains due to business decline and losses suffered, including, in some cases, complete closure of operations and insolvency.    

Put differently, the banking system has become a pain in the neck of customers.  While customers are experiencing frustrations from incessant debit alerts attributable to subjective and jumbled charges, corporate customers, in addition, also suffer from inability to access simple credits to run businesses, including foreign exchange to settle Letters of Credit.

It is therefore imperative to compel the banks to function appropriately without putting the customers through pains.  Gaps created by CBN’s unimpressive efforts at enforcing compliance with rules guiding bank charges, should be filled by various consumer protection agencies for the good of customers.  

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and other non-governmental organisations (NGOs) established to protect the interest of consumers should rise to the challenge of banks’ growing quest for abnormal profit through use of arbitrary charges, devoid of empathy for emotional state of customers.  

Some of the policies that necessitated the bank charges should be reviewed, so as not to discourage Nigerians from optimizing the services of the banking industry.  Failure to do this, could undermine government’s cashless policy, with implication on banks’ total clientele base.  Moreso, as the country is still underbanked.  

The banks must therefore, wake up, smell the coffee, feel the impulse of customers, and shore up the dwindling integrity and reputation of the banking industry.

I borrowed my headline from a surah in the Holy Qur'an— Suratul Rahman. Ar-Rahman in English means "The Beneficent", and is known for its repetition of the phrase "Then which of your Lord's favours will you both deny?", Surah Ar-Rahman, with 78 ayats (verses), is the 55th chapter (surah) in the Qur'an.

Surah Ar-Rahman, a Makkiya (revealed in Makkah), was unveiled in the early stages of the Prophet Muhammad's (SAW) prophethood. This revelation underscores Allah's mercy, numerous blessings, and gifts upon humanity, fostering gratitude and recognition of His power. The recurring question, "Which of the favours of your Lord will you deny?", is a powerful reminder of the necessity to be grateful for every single blessing, big or small, that He has bestowed upon us.

Allah's favours to us are undeniable as they are uncountable. Our existence alone is an attestation to that. Going back to the moment you were conceived, with His aid, you (as a gamete) outswam over 200 million of your contemporaries in the race for life to penetrate your mother's egg and form a zygote. Which of His favours, then, can you deny?

Apart from the millions of your mates that died the second you entered the protective comfort of your mother's egg, your contemporaries around the world have been dying every second of your life. Many were born with one impairment or another. Some acquired theirs in the course of their lives. Some are battling debilitating illnesses, while others are seeking what to put in their mouths. Have some of you not sired children and seen their grandchildren? Then, please, which of His favours will you deny?

Do you think He gave you the ability to talk, walk, eat, and sleep and denied these to others because you are better, or holier, than they are? Do you delude yourself that He gave you strength—physical and financial—because you were you and denied the next person because he was he? He gave you power because He wants you to fulfil His will, not because you are the only one who can. So, are there any of His favours that you deny?

That you breathe, think, learn, and understand that you are alive and in the world is enough favour; likewise, in having understanding, knowing and believing that a superior being creates the worlds and all in between.

Please take a look at your creation. When you look at the complexities of the human anatomy and physiognomy, the balance of all that makes the human body, you cannot deny God's favours unto you. Look at the relationship between the inhabitants of the world and the galaxy, and you know a Master Craftsman has been at work since time immemorial and will continue unto infinity.

Have you ever pondered how and why the night dovetails into the day and the day fades into the night consistently at appointed times without fail? You came into the world and met this order, and you will leave this order when you bow out. He made your body attuned to these natural occurrences, making you rest when it is dark and emerge refreshed at daylight. Think about the food on your table, the roof over your head, the health that allows you to carry out your daily activities. These are all His favours that we often overlook in our busy lives. And so, is there any of His favours that you deny?

All those in heaven and on earth are dependent on Him. He gives, and He takes; He makes, and unmakes. If He says "Yes", who is there to say "No"? His favours are unquestionable, they are undeniable. Day in and day out, He has something to bring about. Then, which of your Lord's favours will you deny?

The average human does not look at their past when gauging their presence. If they did, every man would always find cause to confess God's favours in their lives. Our condition yesterday was never the same as today's. When you live in the present alone, you may not see it. But when we look at where we are coming from, we cannot deny His undeniable favours upon us.

Even former President Muhammadu Buhari, who said he added nothing to his assets in his eight years as president, knows that there are differences in his wardrobe before and after being president. Even his skin texture is proof enough.

In the 1970s, when we were growing up in the dusty, sunny, windy, and peaceful town that Maiduguri was, where Muslims, Christians, and people of all tribes lived as brothers, looking out for one another, it was a common sight to see grown-up people moving about shoeless. And there was no shame in it. As a result, many people had semi-baked feet with cracked furrows that could swallow pebbles. Those who could manage it had slippers cut out of articulated vehicle tyres. Those with bathroom slippers mostly used pins to hold and keep them "on the road." Now, who walks barefoot or with bathroom slippers? The contrast between then and now, the improvements in our lives, are clear signs of His favours. So, which of His favours are you denying?

The hot tropical sun of Maiduguri had a glaring fire that heated the sandy soil of the encroaching Sahara Desert. Mirages, because of the shimmering rays from the middle of the blazing sun, were familiar sights on the dusty roads of Maiduguri and the few tarred roads of the Government Reserve Area (GRA). The primary school I attended, Shehu Garbai, just after the School of Nursing, adjacent to the commissioner of police's house, did not have a tarred road in front of it.

About fifty years later, almost everywhere in the beautiful town of Maiduguri has tarred roads. Back then, you saw such roads in front of the Shehu's Palace and a few streets in the GRA because even the GRA had just a few roads covered by asphalt. Heat makes some human "companions" like flies, mosquitoes, lizards, etc., comfortable. It was common to see mosquitoes form blankets just above our heads in the afternoons, out of our reach, waiting for darkness to descend on us. Not anymore. And yet, do we deny any of His favours unto us?

Those were periods when almost everyone had a patch on their clothes, called pachi in Hausa. Trousers, shorts for kids, skirts for girls, wrappers, shirts, jumpers—name them—most had patches, and some had multiple. There was no shame because it was normal. There were even people who moved about naked or half-clad. The elite could wear trousers, jumpers, and babbar riga (gown) in different materials and colours. Now, people can easily afford the ten yards for those. Then, which of His favours do we deny?

There weren't taxis as we know them today. How many cars plied the roads then, anyway? Those with motorcycles were among the elite. Woe betide you if your rival owned a bicycle while you 'legged' it to visit the lady you wanted to marry. Those with scooters, BSAs, or even mobyllets (a cross between a motorcycle and a bicycle) were eligible bachelors with intimidating credentials. People were healthier because they trekked due to having fewer rides. Now, people jump "into" an achaba (motorcycle) or a keke (tricycle) for the shortest distances.

Of course, people were more secure and houses weren't walled. Barbed wires were used to fence the best houses in the GRAs, including the Government House.

The staple foods were millet, corn, and guinea corn; those whom wealth smiled on could eat yams and rice. Many homes ate rice on special occasions like Sallah, Christmas, weddings, and naming ceremonies. Yam, plantain, etc., were delicacies from the south, brought mainly through long-distance drivers. Not that you didn't get them in the markets, but they were meals for special occasions, as they weren't cheaply available.

If you are to look at the present, no doubt we have a lot to thank God for His favours. Those who didn't know then would wonder how we existed then. There was no television or computers, not to mention the internet and smartphones. Our telephones, almost similar to those of Alexander Graham Bell in 1876, worked with cables and switchboards. And people sent messages by letters that took months to reach their destinations and more months to get a reply. Or they send someone to travel by road to deliver a message. Sometimes the messenger and the message would perish en route. Now, wherever they may be, everyone is just a click away.

Is there still any of His favours that you deny?

The ever bubbling Back Page Columnist of thenewsroom.ng Abidemi Adebamiwa return to Nigeria from his United States of America Base to tie the knot with his Heartthrob, the Vivacious Justina Abiola Ogunjolu on Saturday in Lagos.

Families and Friends of Abidemi and Justina across the Country turn out in large number to celebrate and rejoice with the latest Couple in Town.

Guests were thrilled to good music, assorted Food and Drinks as well as good dancing steps by the Couple especially the Groom who wriggle his waist endlessly to the admiration of all.

Here is wishing one of our very best a happy, successful and fruitful Marriage.

In a tête-à-tête with journalists last week, the Governor of Jigawa State, Umar Namadi, openly disagreed with Retired General Theophilus Danjuma, former Chief of Army Staff and former Minister of Defence, over his advice to us Nigerians, to defend ourselves against those who have been killing citizens like Christmas turkeys and abducting and negotiating ransom payments like buying and selling sacks of potatoes in Shendam market.

Namadi said, “He (Danjuma) is a very senior security person and should be respected. But if he says citizens should be allowed to defend themselves, I think you are causing anarchy.” TY Danjuma, of all people, being accused of causing anarchy?! How time changes things!

The weekend before, at a get-together organised in honour of his workers in Takum, Taraba State, Danjuma told staff, partners, and companies working with him that citizens should not fold their arms and allow bandits and terrorists to overrun their communities.

“We cannot continue to sit and watch while bandits, terrorists, and criminal gangs massacre our people unchecked. It is now very clear that the government alone cannot protect us. We must stand up and defend ourselves, our families, and our lands before these criminals overrun the entire country,” he affirmed.

TY Danjuma, described as “a soldier’s soldier” by former President Muhammadu Buhari, has been an unapologetic advocate for self-defence.

In October 2022, he made the same call in Wukari, Taraba State, at the official presentation of the Staff of Office to the Aku Uka of Wukari, Manu Ali, where he lamented that Nigerians had taken his earlier call in 2017 for them to defend their land against terrorists for granted. And so, he appealed to the Aku Uka “to unite us to be able to defend ourselves against the enemies of the country effectively.”

Exactly seven years ago, at the maiden convocation ceremony of Taraba State University in Jalingo, the state capital, Danjuma said, “The unnecessary killings, which is a target for ethnic cleansing of the people of Taraba and Nigeria at large, must stop,” calling on the people to “rise and defend themselves against the killers.”

“You must rise to protect yourselves from these people; if you depend on the Armed Forces to protect you, you will all die,” he said.

The presidency, the Army he once headed, and the Nigerian Police rebuked him over those statements. The Nigerian Army set up an investigative committee, to which he responded, “In 2017, when I called on the people to defend themselves, the Army set up a kangaroo commission of enquiry to investigate, and they said I was lying because there was no evidence.”

But what has changed between then and now?

According to a report by The Punch newspaper, 23 local government areas in Sokoto, Zamfara, and Kebbi States are under the control of bandits. Farmers and residents have abandoned their farms and communities, while the unlucky ones have been slaughtered, their women taken away.

Bandits appoint community leaders in many communities, with residents paying them homage and taxes.

In Niger State, five local governments are within the bandits’ grip. It is equally dire in Katsina, where communities have now been forced to negotiate with the bandits for relief from their attacks. In the Faskari area of Katsina State, 32 communities have been abandoned due to relentless bandit attacks, according to a Leadership newspaper survey.

Bandits can storm a wedding venue and demand that the bride be handed over to them — a demand people quickly obey. Sometimes, they call a father to bring them his daughter(s) or a husband to surrender his wife or wives. Refusing to comply is perilous, as no one can protect you from the consequences that may arise.

Who can, when even military barracks are not exempt from their attacks? From the plains of Sokoto to the dunes of Borno, up to the hills of Taraba, terrorists in various forms hold sway. Venture ten kilometres outside Maiduguri, and you may never be seen again. Even today, roads connecting the capital of Borno to other areas remain unused due to the risk of encountering them.

When one carefully examines all the besieged communities, a common thread emerges: most inhabitants were docile, sheepishly allowing the marauders to treat them as they pleased. Instead of defending their lands, property, integrity, and families by facing the brigands head-on, forcing them back or dying in the process with wounds on the front, they turn tail and run away — many of them dying from wounds on their backs.

I often cite two communities in the North-East that stood toe-to-toe with Boko Haram and emerged victorious.

When Boko Haram attacked Azare town in Bauchi State, instead of cowering, residents bravely fought back. Those with vehicles rammed into them, while others, despite being shot at, pursued them until the last of them was dispatched to God for final judgment.

The same occurred in Biu, Borno State. The entire youth population came out to confront the Boko Haramites when they invaded the town of Yamtar Ola until the remaining insurgents realised it was safer to flee the hilly town. To the insurgents, avoiding these two lands of the brave is the beginning of wisdom.

But who is TY Danjuma that Governor Namadi is warning not to bring anarchy to Nigeria? When Namadi was born on 7 April 1963, Danjuma was a second lieutenant and a platoon commander in a United Nations peacekeeping force in Sante, Katanga Province, in Congo. In 1966, when the governor was three years old, Danjuma laid down not only his career but also his life by being at the forefront of the counter-coup, dubbed the “July Rematch,” which aimed to avenge the North, a region that Namadi now presumably wishes to see developed.

Between 1967 and 1970, he fought to preserve Nigeria's unity. You may accuse Nigerians who fought to retain a united Nigeria of many things, but not of lacking patriotism — and indeed not of causing anarchy.

Former President Buhari, who fought in the Nigerian Civil War under Danjuma, has said that at a time when Danjuma could have been Head of State following the assassination of General Murtala Mohammed in a botched coup in 1976, he sacrificed for the country.

Unlike many generals who have profited from the country's insecurity, amassing billions for themselves, Danjuma, through legitimate business ventures, has used his profits to benefit communities, including tertiary institutions.

Surely, one expects an apology from anyone who accuses such a figure as General TY Danjuma, as Governor Namadi did.

In an era when generals contribute millions to pay ransom for the release of one of their own, what will become of us, ordinary mortals, if we do not come together and organise to defend ourselves?

President Donald Trump of United States has questioned Vladimir Putin's willingness to end the War in Ukraine following his Meeting with the Country's Leader Volodymyr Zelensky on the sidelines of Pope Francis's Funeral.

Posting on social Media after leaving Rome, Trump said he feared Putin was "tapping me along" after Moscow's strikes on Kyiv earlier this week, adding there was "no reason for Putin to be shooting Missiles into Civilian Areas".

Earlier in the day Trump and Zelensky were seen in deep discussion in St Peter's Basilica shortly before the funeral began.

The White House described the 15-minute meeting with Zelensky as "very productive". The Ukrainian President said it had the "potential to become Historic".

It was Trump's first Face-to-Face Encounter with the Ukrainian President since February's acrimonious Oval Office showdown.

Writing on his Truth Social account, Trump said the Russian attacks on Ukrainian Cities "makes me think that maybe he doesn't want to stop the War, he's just tapping me along, and has to be dealt with differently, through 'Banking' or 'Secondary Sanctions?”.

During their last Face-to-Face Meeting at the White House, Trump had told Zelensky "you don't have the Cards" and that he was not winning against Russia.

Trump repeated that Message this week, saying the Ukrainian Leader had "no cards to play". He has previously blamed Ukraine for starting the War and has accused Zelensky multiple times of being an obstacle to Peace Negotiations.

The White House struck a more positive tone about Saturday's Meeting, while Zelensky described the Sit Down as a "very symbolic" and one which could prove significant "if we achieve joint results".

Two images were released of the meeting, showing the US Leader in a Blue Suit and Ukrainian President in a Black Top and Trousers, locked in intense Conversation while sitting opposite each other.

Ukraine's Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha also posted an image of the meeting on X with the caption: "No words are needed to describe the importance of this Historic Meeting. Two Leaders working for Peace in St. Peter's Basilica."

Credit BBC: Texts excluding Headline

On April 21, the Holy See, the central governing body of the Catholic Church and Vatican City State, announced the death of Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff.

The demise of the pontiff followed bouts of respiratory illnesses–pneumonia in both lungs—among other complications; he has been hospitalised intermittently in the past four years.

“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis.

“At 7.35 this morning the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was devoted to service to the Lord and His Church.

“He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised.

“With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love the One and Triune God,’’ Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, announced.

Pope Francis, aged 88, was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina on Dec. 17, 1936; a son of Italian immigrants.

Originally known as Jorge Mario Bergoglio, he was the first Pope of the Americas and also the first Jesuit Pope.

Pope Francis was ordained a Catholic priest on Dec. 13, 1969 by Archbishop Ramón José Castellano of Córdoba.

On May 20, 1992 Pope John Paul II appointed him titular Bishop of Auca and Auxiliary of Buenos Aires; on May 27, he received episcopal ordination from the Cardinal in the cathedral.

He was elected Supreme Pontiff on March 13, 2013, replacing the retiring Pope Benedict XVI.

The news of the exit of the Catholic pontiff threw Catholics and non-Catholics into mourning as tributes and griefs poured in torrents from around world.

For the benefit of hindsight, Pope Francis wanted a deviation from the traditional papacy and sought to introduce radical reforms in deeply conservative Catholic Church; he had, however, always met a brick wall in Vatican’s bureaucracy, the Roman Curia.

He was a social justice and climate change advocate and promoted interfaith dialogue in his desire to open up the Catholic Church and embrace modernism.

In his 12-year papacy, Francis, against all odds, implemented significant reforms, including overhauling Vatican finances, updating liturgical books, and simplifying papal funeral rites.

The deceased pontiff had a more accommodating tone towards the LGBTQ+ community and upbraided laws that criminilaised homosexuality; he was also an advocate for migrants and refugees.

Francis had been participating in public events from a wheelchair due to a severe knee condition and had to cancel many regular prayers, audiences and services in recent months.

In his last public appearance, Francis appeared briefly on the balcony in front of thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday to deliver an Easter blessing.

In spite of his ill health, the pope completed a 12-day trip to Asia and the Pacific in the first half of September and a visit to Luxembourg and Belgium later the same month.

In Nigeria, President Bola joined world leaders in pouring in encomiums for the late pontiff.

Tinubu personally penned a passionate tribute.

The president described Francis as a humble servant of God, tireless champion of the poor and guiding light for millions.

The president said the passing of the pontiff, coming just after the celebration of Christ’s Resurrection, was a sacred return to his Maker at a time of renewed hope for Christians.

“His Holiness served the Church and the Master of the Church until the end; in 2013, he stepped onto the global stage with a message of mercy, urging us to see the face of Christ in the marginalised, the refugees, the migrants, and the forgotten.

“He challenged the powerful to act with justice, called nations to welcome the stranger, and reminded us that our common home – this Earth – is a gift we must protect for future generations.

“He was an instrument of peace who deeply embodied the message of Christ: love for God and love for humanity. In a time of division, he built bridges between faiths and the rich and the poor.”

He said the late Pope was a steadfast advocate for the developing world, where he consistently spoke against economic injustice and ceaselessly prayed for peace and stability in troubled regions.

“His encyclicals were not only doctrinal and seminal but also timely and relevant; through his pastoral letters, the Pope offered spiritual clarity and hope in an increasingly complex world.

“He charted a path of renewal for all humanity through his words and deeds,” Tinubu said.

U.S President, Donald Trump in his message wrote, “Rest in Peace Francis! May God Bless him and all who loved him! “

UK Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, said that Pope’ leadership in a complex and challenging time for the world and the church was courageous, yet always came from a place of deep humility.

He said Francis was a pope for the poor, the downtrodden and the forgotten.

“He was close to the realities of human fragility, meeting Christians around the world facing war, famine, persecution and poverty; yet he never lost hope of a better world.

“That hope was as the heart of his papacy. His determination to visibly live out his faith inspired people across the world to see afresh the church’s teachings of mercy and charity.

“With his death, we are reminded once more of his call to care for one another across different faiths, backgrounds, nations and beliefs.

“My thoughts are with Catholics across the world, and the Roman Catholic Church,’’ he said.

On his part, French President, Emmanuel Macron, paid an avid tribute for Francis.

“From Buenos Aires to Rome, Francis wanted the Church to bring joy and hope to the poorest; to unite people with one another and with nature; may this hope be reborn endlessly beyond him.

“To all Catholics, to a grieving world, my wife and I send our thoughts,’’ he said.

Sharing an episcopal sentiment, the Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Ignatius Kaigama, described the passing of Francis on Easter Monday as the fall of “a mighty Iroko”.

He said it was a loss that resonated across the world.

Kaigama reflected on the Pope’s profound spiritual and pastoral legacy.

“He showed us the face of Jesus Christ, the face of mercy, the face of love.

“A great man, very great, in our local parlance, I will say a mighty Iroko has fallen; it shakes the whole world; the whole world is mourning,

“Christians and non-Christians and for all of us, it is a passing away of a great one; his legacies are many, uncountable.

“He traveled through the whole world, pronouncing and showing love and mercy; he was a very humane Pope and very attentive to the needs of the ordinary person.

“And so, he will be remembered for this; like Jesus Christ, he touched those who are sick; he identified with the prisoners, those who are dismissed by the society.

“So, he was a very humane Pope and very attentive to the needs of the ordinary person.’’

Kaigama urged Catholic faithful in Abuja and Nigeria to pray for the eternal repose of Pope Francis, emphasising the need for unity and hope as the Church entered a period of transition.

He also spoke on his expectations for a new Pope.

We want a good pope, a holy pope, a pope that is there for the people; wherever he comes from and whoever he is does not matter.

“We just pray that God will give us a good pope, a holy pope, a pope that will lead the flock unto salvation.”

According to him, during this interregnum, the Vatican’s Camerlengo oversees daily affairs, but no major decisions are made until a new pope is elected.

“A carmelengo, a chamberlain, oversees the activities of Catholic Church for now; his task is to oversee the practical running of the Vatican for now.

“But as for the church, no major decisions are taken; we just wait; when the cardinals assemble and a new pope is elected, then the life continues.

“So, we can say we are on hold for now; but the church still keeps moving,’’ he said.

Kaigama called on the faithful to intensify their prayers, trusting the Holy Spirit to guide the Church through the challenging moment.

The pontiff, had in 2015,  declared his desire to be buried in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, a fifth-century church in Rome dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

As the Conclave (the assembly of cardinals for the election of a pope) convenes within 15 to 20 days after the death of Francis, the world waits and watches in awe for the emergence of a new Pope.

Credit NAN

Sometimes in life, one comes across people whom one is at a loss for words on how to present to the public. This is not because there are no words or that you lack them. No—it is mainly because you know them closely enough that you do not want it to look like you are buttering your words. After all, you know them.

Take the case of Bala Ciroma, who recently retired as a Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG). When he was a newly minted police officer in the early 1990s, his house in Suleja was my transit “camp” on my way to Lagos and back—until he tied the nuptial knot with his first wife.

And it was a little before that period that I came across two first-class print journalists who mentored me: the late Hajiya Bilkisu Yusuf and Alhaji Dahiru Coomasie, who also passed on last week. Bilkisu Yusuf, whose death I still mourn, died in a stampede during Hajj in Mina, Saudi Arabia, on 24 September 2015.

Back to Bala Ciroma, who retired as one of the finest and most respectable officers ever to wear the uniform of the Nigeria Police. In a nation that seeks truth and desires to fight corruption, Ciroma would have long headed its anti-graft agencies. A nation that desires a serious, dignified, above-board, effective, and responsive police force would have placed Bala Ciroma in the position to reform it.

Even as a fresher in Suleja in the early ’90s, he had shown glimpses of what he could do. I recall a night we went to a hangout for the young and the young at heart. We were served plates of pepper soup and bottles of Maltex (is it still in the market?), and we sat down to relax while some hot-blooded night crawlers were busy gyrating to music played by a live band.

I did not see anything amiss, with my civilian naïveté, but he, being a trained policeman, told me to stay quiet while he rushed back to the station and shortly returned.

“There are some guys I am suspecting,” he told me discreetly, nodding towards some ‘gung-ho’-looking youths about our age, in their 30s. There was no communication sophistication like we have now, so he rushed out and returned with some mufti-wearing policemen, rounded up those suspects, and took them back to the station for interrogation.

It's no wonder he turned into a shrewd, crack detective, becoming Deputy Commissioner of Police in the Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Department (CIID) of the FCT Police Command. Earlier, he was Assistant Commissioner of Police, CID, Kano State Command, and Head of Operations at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Among many, he investigated high-profile cases like when seven policemen were killed on Monday, 2 July 2018, at the Galadimawa Roundabout in Abuja. He also investigated the case of Maryam Sanda (the girl who killed her husband) and her mother, Maimuna Aliyu.

As earlier said, a little before this time, I came into contact with two great journalistic minds, Dahiru Coomasie and Bilkisu Yusuf. I came to know them because, then, I was based in Zaria, publishing a newspaper, The Pointer. I used to take complimentary copies to them and some other people, including Dr Bala Usman in FASS, ABU, Zaria.

Through my visits to Bilkisu Yusuf at her Citizen magazine office close to NDA in Kaduna, I came into contact with other journalists working under her, including Mahmud Jega, Tawey Zakka, Adamu Adamu, Mohammed Haruna, and Mohammed Bomoi. She facilitated my invitation to the 7th Islamic Summit hosted by the Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC), now Organisation of Islamic Co-operation (OIC), held in Abuja in 1991, where I met with the late General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua and late Sheikh Mahmud Gumi – two soft-spoken gentlemen.

Yar'Adua, we discussed the issue of printing newspapers in his publishing company, while with Gumi, it was like a "question and answer" session.

Dahiru Coomasie, whom Today staff happily addressed as “Editor”, was then editor at Today newspaper, with its office at No. 1, Liberia Road, Malali, Kaduna. We became friends, too, and I made sure I always took complimentary copies to him.

Dahiru was a good man with a strong spirit. At infancy, an injection went wrong and left him lame on one leg. He graduated with a degree in Sociology from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, in 1977. After his NYSC, he joined the university as a researcher at the Centre for Nigerian Cultural Studies. He was also the treasurer of the ABU branch of ASUU. Ever the compassionate intellectual, he resigned his appointment in 1985 and moved back to Katsina to take care of their aged father. After their father died in 1989, he took up an appointment with Today Communications Ltd, publishers of Today, Abuja Mirror and A Yau newspapers. He was editor of Today from 1990 to 2000, after which he became the company's MD and Editor-in-Chief. He was also the general secretary of the Nigerian Guild of Editors.

In mid-1991, I decided to return home (Borno), as publishing had become difficult to sustain. Even in that era of copy-and-paste, where newspaper columns, in between “gutters”, were measured on the strength of “over matter” and “under matter” (unlike now, when everything is done on a computer screen), newspaper publishing was capital-intensive.

The first edition of my newspaper, published in 1990 by the Nation House Publishing Company, belonging to the late General Musa Yar’Adua, cost about ₦3,300 for 1,000 copies. Bilkisu Yusuf facilitated that seed money when she gave me a note to Alhaji Bashir Tofa. You will understand the value of ₦3,000 when considering that a brand-new Peugeot 504 was ₦7,000 and a new Mercedes-Benz 200 was ₦24,000 a few years earlier.

After publishing a few editions—sometimes travelling as far as Lagos in search of cheaper printers—I called it quits and turned my attention towards home. The question of surviving at home came up, and Malam Dahiru Coomasie gave me an appointment as a Borno State Today newspaper reporter on a salary of ₦750 per month. Yes, it’s not a mistake: ₦750 per month or ₦9,000 per annum. With this money, I started thinking of marriage, and a few months later, when Yobe was created, I came down to Yobe as Today’s reporter, and the woman I eventually married caught my attention.

Last week, the Fika Emirate turbaned Bala Ciroma as Talban Fika—a well-deserved title for arguably one of the best, incorruptible police officers Nigeria has ever produced. As we celebrate a life well spent, our prayers to him are that his remaining life be long and that one day he narrates his story to his great-grandchildren under the shade of trees in his garden. May the future be more blessed for him than the past.

And in faraway Katsina, Dahiru Coomasie, from one of Katsina’s most prestigious families, was interned. He has joined his father, Ahmadu Coomasie, who First Bank named its headquarters in Abuja after. He has also joined his senior brothers, Abidina Coomasie, publisher of Today, Ayau (Hausa) and Abuja Mirror newspapers, Ibrahim Coomasie, former Inspector General of Police and SaifulLahi Muntaka Coomasie, a former Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria. While we thank God for the life of Editor, Malam Dahiru, we pray that the souls of all our departed rest in perfect peace.

Salutations

Honourable Ministers, Special Advisers, Senior Special Assistants, The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Power and other Permanent Secretaries here present, the Heads of Government Agencies and Parastatals, Directors of the Ministry of Power, Other Government Senior Officials, Gentlemen of the Media, Distinguished invited guests, ladies and Gentlemen. Good morning.

It is a great honour to stand before you to present the Federal Ministry of Power’s performance for the first quarter of 2025. As the saying goes, True progress is measured not by promises but by results delivered — and by the lives we improve along the way.

I will start with an overview of the Nigerian Power Sector Stakeholders:

Since the beginning of this year, we have focused on delivering measurable progress that strengthens the power sector and improves electricity access across the country. Working collaboratively with our agencies, partners, and the private sector, I am proud to highlight key milestones achieved over the past 100 days.

1. Firstly, let me begin with our progress in Market Liquidity and Sector Reforms, which are reshaping our sector’s landscape.

In fulfilment of the statutory mandate of the Electricity Act 2023, the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Power, developed the National Integrated Electricity Policy (NIEP). These transformative frameworks set a clear roadmap for delivering a resilient, cost-effective, and sustainable power sector. The NIEP, which was presented to Mr. President, has been submitted for approval by the Federal Executive Council of Nigeria. This Policy guides all power sector actors, including investors, operators, regulators, and the supervising Ministry, to transform Nigeria’s power sector through a data-driven and evidence-based approach. 

Another major milestone was the presentation of the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), a strategic roadmap that prioritises least-cost electrification and optimised energy resource utilisation. Collectively, the National Integrated Electricity Policy (NIEP) and the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) present a unique opportunity to transform Nigeria’s power sector through a data-driven and evidence-based approach. Beyond strengthening the sector, these frameworks have far-reaching economic implications, directly impacting supply reliability to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and large industries, reducing operational disruptions caused by power shortages, fostering economic growth and job creation, and accelerating local and regional development. 

 Our commitment to energy access was further demonstrated when we signed the Nigerian Energy Compact in January in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. This initiative, led by the World Bank and the African Development Bank, aligns with our aspiration to expand energy generation. The target of M300 is to extend energy access to an additional 300 million Africans by 2030 out of the 600 million currently lacking access. This initiative will be realised based on a five-pillar strategy: expanding generation, strengthening utilities, incentivising private investment, accelerating renewables, and boosting regional integration. The Compact sets ambitious goals to enhance electricity access, increase renewable energy adoption, and improve clean cooking solutions for millions of Nigerians. 

Furthermore, it is evident that, due to our transformative tariff reforms, the market has generated an additional ₦700 billion in revenue, reflecting a 70% increase. This results from the cost-reflective tariff adjustment for Band A customers. Market revenue for 2024 rose from NGN 1 trillion in 2023 to NGN 1.7 trillion. This growth in market revenue is unprecedented, as the highest growth previously achieved was 20%. This positively impacts the reduction of the government-subsidised tariff shortfall by 35%, decreasing it from NGN 3 trillion to NGN 1.9 trillion. This demonstrates that financial viability and service delivery can coexist harmoniously.

The establishment of the National Independent System Operator (NISO) marks a major milestone. This is in line with the requirement of the Electricity Act of 2023 which mandates the unbundling of the Transmission Company of Nigeria into the Transmission Service Provider (TSP) and the National Independent System Operator (NISO). This separation ensures clarity of purpose and independence of the System and Market Operators. It is important to note that this initiative has been attempted severally in the past with failures recorded, but under the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, the Board of NISO was inaugurated by the Vice President on April 8th, which will now independently manage grid operations to enhance efficiency and reliability.

In alignment with the Electricity Act, in the past months, regulatory oversight has now been successfully transferred to Plateau and Niger States, enabling subnational control over electricity markets -  11 states in total.

Furthermore, regarding market liquidity, the diligent efforts of the Nigerian Electricity Liability Management Company have resulted in the reconciliation and reduction of Federal MDA debts owed to Abuja DisCo by 47.4%, decreasing from ₦15.53 billion to ₦8.17 billion.

Generation
One of the major focuses of the Power sector is to improve generation and increase energy access. Over the past months, we have continuously made progress in generation through some of the following initiatives I will be highlighting;

On 2 March 2025, Nigeria reached a remarkable generation available capacity of 6,003 MW, marking the first time this level had been recorded in the country’s history. This achievement was followed by a peak generation evacuation of 5,801.44 megawatts on 4 March 2025, which also saw an impressive daily energy output of 128,370.75 megawatt-hours on that day. The average daily power generated and distributed in the past quarter of 2025 was 5,700 MW compared with the 4,100 MW achieved in the third quarter of 2023. This indicates a growth of 1,600 MW, nearly 40% growth since we assumed office at the Ministry. Given that it took the country almost 40 years to achieve an incremental 2,000 MW average energy, we accomplished this in less than two years. 

Through targeted interventions by the new management of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company, we've been able to restore 232.5 megawatts of previously idle capacity from our Omotosho and Benin plants. Additionally, NDPHC has carried out the construction, improvement, and installation of 14 Transmission lines across the country, as well as the rehabilitation of the existing TCN 2 x 132kv line bay extension at TCN Papalanto substation (lot 14) Papalanto Ogun state and 330KV DC AFAM – Ikot Ekpene Transmission Line 65KM (LOT 4A)

Across Plateau, Cross River, Niger, Oyo and Osun States, new off-grid and interconnected mini-grid projects were commissioned, supplying thousands of households with clean energy. Some locations include;

• 550KWp at Bakin Ciyawa and Kwande communities in Plateau
• 440kWp Mini-Grid in Cross River State
• 990kW Mini-grid to Power 3,900 Households in Niger State
• 510KwP solar hybrid mini-grid in communities in Osun State

In addition to their impressive generation initiatives, Sun Africa Energy and Skipper Electric are keen to invest in Nigeria’s power sector, emphasising renewable generation and grid expansion. Their proposals are currently being reviewed and evaluated. This will facilitate the integration of solar energy into the national grid instead of conventional hydro and thermal generation, enhancing overall generation capacity and ensuring energy security. 

Furthermore, the process of full evacuation from the Zungeru and Kashimbila hydropower plants is underway. Zungeru currently evacuates 550MW out of the 700MW capacity, while Kashimbila evacuates 40MW of the 40MW available capacity.

We are in the initial phases of developing the Makurdi hydro project and revitalising the Kaduna thermal plant, both of which will enhance power generation on the grid. Makurdi holds the potential for significant hydropower generation of approximately 1500MW. The Kaduna thermal plant is 87% finished and has a capacity of 215MW; it was inactive for about six years prior to the current administration. Efforts are underway to restore this plant, which is expected to be operational by the end of the year. 

Feasibility studies for concessioning the Kastina wind farm, which has a capacity of 10MW and was previously abandoned, are currently underway in partnership with the Kastina State Government and the private sector. In addition, we are evaluating the wind energy potential of the coastal areas alongside the development of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway initiated by Mr. President.

Furthermore, in terms of generation, Nigeria has a 14GW capacity potential of hydropower but only utilises about 20%. As a result, we are working on a hydropower plan for small hydro dams under the Sustainable Power and Irrigation in Nigeria (SPIN) program. Additional studies are ongoing, as well as studies on small hydro potential across strategic corridors—Badagry to Sokoto Highway.

Lastly, we are discussing establishing frameworks for private sector participation in investment in the national grid. 

Transmission Expansion and Grid Stability

Towards the end of 2024, we observed several grid disturbances that created significant pressure for us to enhance grid stability. However, in the first four months of 2025, we have not recorded any major grid disturbances. This is due to our transformative transmission projects like the;

The Presidential Power Initiative (PPI) Pilot Phase delivered infrastructure across 13 locations, adding 700MW to the national grid. These locations include;

Abuja FCT - Power Transformer

Kogi State - Power Transformer

Delta State - Power Transformer

Edo State - Power Transformer

Plateau State - Power Transformer

Lagos State - Mobile Substation

Kebbi State - Power Transformer

Niger State - Mobile Substation

Kano State - Mobile Substation

Lagos State - Power Transformer

Lagos State - Power Transformer

Oyo State - Mobile Substation

Ogun State - Mobile Substation

Due to the success of the pilot phase, we have the approval of the President and the FEC to proceed to Phase One of the PPI Project. Hence, contracts have been signed with Siemens, CMEC, Elswedy and Power China - and financing arrangements are at the advanced stages to support implementation.

Nigeria's transmission network currently comprises 92 lines at 330kV covering 9,504.5km and 141 lines at 132kV spanning 8,557.9km, interconnected through our 57 existing 330/132/33kV and 186 132/33kV substations. This backbone infrastructure is supported by 91 power transformers at 330/132/33kV voltage levels with 14,978MVA capacity, and 392 transformers at 132/33kV providing 19,238MVA capacity - collectively enabling our grid's 8.7GW operational capacity.

To strengthen this critical network, TCN commissioned 61 new transformers totalling 5,589MVA in 2024, followed by 9 additional transformers adding 1,637.5MVA in Q1 2025 across key locations including Lagos, Benin, Bauchi, Osogbo, Kano and Kaduna. (The list of the sites is projected on the deck).

With NGN 25 billion allocated in the 2025 budget to complete all outstanding transmission projects, we are systematically addressing infrastructure gaps to deliver a more resilient and capable national grid.

Another remarkable initiative is the progress made to regionalise the national grid. The Eastern and Western Supergrid approvals currently in progress will revolutionize our national grid - reducing failures and creating redundancy. The Eastern and Western Supergrid will facilitate the regionalization of the National grid as more loops will be established for grid efficiency. 

The unbundling of TCN into NISO and the Transmission Service Provider (TSP) is now operational—strengthening governance, enhancing performance, and increasing investor confidence in the sector.

Distribution: Closing the Access Gap

In the distribution area, we have made significant strides in closing the metering gap and expanding last-mile electrification—two fundamental pillars that ensure fair billing, boost revenue recovery and bring power to underserved communities. These initiatives are transforming our distribution landscape from estimated consumption to measured accountability and from energy exclusion to universal access. Let me now highlight our key achievements in this vital sector;

The launch of the Presidential Metering Initiative, backed by a ₦700 billion FAAC allocation. A new SPV has been set up with the board fully constituted to lead implementation. We target 1.1 million meters by the end of 2025, with 2 million annually for the next five years and the procurement process has started.

Through the World Bank-funded Distribution Sector Recovery Program (DISREP), over 3.2 million meters will be procured and installed alongside meter data management solutions for DISCO optimisation. The first batch of 75,000 meters under ICB1 arrived in April, with 200,000 more expected in the month of May 2025.

Lastly, the Distribution Companies (DisCos) are currently undergoing restructuring aimed at enhancing service delivery and operational efficiency. Furthermore, new acquisition and management modifications are being implemented, while the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) is reinforcing the performance matrix for the DisCos. 

Renewable Energy, Rural Electrification and Energy Transition 

Nigeria continues to lead on renewable initiatives to the vanguard of Nigeria's energy transition – powering sustainable development while bridging the energy access gap. This quarter, we've accelerated our transition to clean energy solutions while bringing electricity to underserved communities through innovative off-grid systems. These efforts align with our commitment to climate action, energy security, and inclusive growth – ensuring no Nigerian is left behind in our journey toward a sustainable energy future. Let me now highlight our transformative progress in these critical areas;

Launched by the Federal Government, the Energizing Education Programme (EEP) was designed to provide a reliable power supply to 37 federal universities and seven affiliated teaching hospitals across Nigeria. EEP phases 1 and 2, implemented in collaboration with the World Bank, have been successfully completed, and the EEP III Universities implemented in collaboration with AFDB are about 70% complete. These will collectively add a total of 100MW of clean energy. (The list of the sites is projected on the deck).

Another remarkable initiative is the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) project, which is a $750 million initiative funded by the World Bank which aims to scale up Nigeria's energy access gap by providing new or improved electricity supplies to more than 17.5 million Nigerians. This initiative aims to increase access to electricity services for households and small and medium businesses with private sector-led distributed renewable energy generation and encourage Productive Use of Energy (PUE). The proposed project is a part of the World Bank’s comprehensive, programmatic engagement in Nigeria’s power sector to help the FGN realise its ambitious Energy Transition Plan (ETP) vision.

Through the Africa Mini-grid Program, we've secured $5.91 million in grants for 23 projects. Our partnership with 10 RESCOs will deliver 948 megawatts of new renewable capacity.

In a landmark achievement, we've signed an agreement with Oando Clean Energy for a 1.2 gigawatt solar plant with panel recycling capabilities, ensuring Nigeria doesn't just consume solar technology but participates in its full lifecycle.

Human Capital and Local Content Development

We've commissioned the JICA demonstration substation for hands-on training, while 387 power sector professionals have enhanced their skills through our capacity-building programs.

The completion of National Meter Test Stations in Kano and Benin—now undergoing equipment installation—will ensure that Nigerian-made meters meet global standards.

Furthermore, regarding local content development, the public finance provided through the Rural Electrification Agency, under the oversight of the Ministry of Power, has significantly expanded the renewable energy market. This is driving the growth of local content within the country. The grants have strengthened the confidence and operations of developers, thereby encouraging local manufacturing and assembly. Engagement is ongoing with the Solar Energy Manufacturers Alliance of Nigeria to enhance localised manufacturing and assembly. 

Amidst all these remarkable achievements are some challenges faced by the power sector; these include;

Firstly, the huge outstanding debts to the Power Generation companies in the form of unpaid government subsidies totalling N4trn as of December 2024. N1.94trn is the unpaid subsidy for the year 2024 alone, which is now about N200m monthly. While we recognise the concerns of electricity consumers, we must collectively acknowledge that maintaining the current tariff structure is unsustainable for both the government and the sector's long-term viability. The current subsidy regime significantly strains public resources that could be invested in improving service delivery and infrastructure. We are committed to working transparently with all stakeholders to implement necessary adjustments that balance affordability with the financial sustainability required to provide reliable power for all Nigerians.

Another daunting challenge we must collectively address is the rampant vandalism of critical power infrastructure across the nation, coupled with widespread electricity theft and chronic non-payment of bills. These criminal acts not only disrupt the power supply to entire communities but also impose enormous financial burdens on the sector - losses we estimate at hundreds of billions of naira annually. From destroyed transmission towers to tampered meters and illegal connections, these activities undermine our ability to deliver reliable electricity and reinvest in infrastructure improvements. We are taking decisive action through enhanced security partnerships, community engagement programs, and stricter enforcement measures, but this remains a battle that requires the vigilance and cooperation of all Nigerians to protect these vital national assets that belong to every one of us.

Finally, we must also address the critical issue of poor investment by some sector operators, particularly in distribution infrastructure. This investment gap remains a significant bottleneck in our sector's transformation, and we are implementing stronger performance monitoring and enforcement mechanisms to ensure all licensees meet their obligations to consumers and the electricity market.

In Conclusion,

Our journey is just beginning, but we are proud of the foundation laid in the first 100 days of 2025. These achievements are not just statistics—they represent new jobs, improved livelihoods, and better prospects for our economy and citizens - But our work has only begun.

As we continue with our mandate, the Federal Ministry of Power remains committed to a people-centred, reform-driven, and results-based approach to transforming Nigeria’s power sector.

Thank you, and may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Credit Ministry of Power PR

On Friday last week, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former House of Representatives Speaker and Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal, former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir el-Rufa'i, former Benue State Governor, Gabriel Suswam, former Governor of Imo State, Achike Udenwa, and former Governor of Kaduna State, Ahmed  Makarfi, alongside other political heavyweights, paid a visit to former President Muhammadu Buhari at his residence in Kaduna.

It was ostensibly a social visit, and they were seen exchanging banter, having a tete-a-tete, and enjoying lunch—all for the photo ops—before going into a closed-door meeting – where the main issue would be tabled, for as the Igbo adage says, a frog does not run in the daytime for nothing; it is either pursuing something or something is pursuing it.

The opposition, led by the veteran political warhorse Atiku Abubakar, the Wazirin Adamawa, is in a make-or-break fight for its soul. Unlike former President Goodluck Jonathan, a political greenhorn with an amiable, easy-going demeanour who vowed that his ambition was not worth the blood of a single Nigerian, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a dyed-in-the-wool politician whose ambition must be achieved. His famous words, “Power is not served à la carte” – that one must grab it, snatch it, and flee with it – and his “Emi lokan” declaration in the ancient city of Abeokuta, tell of a man who isn’t ready to brook any nonsense in the power game.

During Jonathan’s era, opposition parties were relatively vibrant and could come together to face existential threats. Today, opposition parties, led by those generally seen, rightly or wrongly, as turncoats doing the ruling party’s bidding for pecuniary gains have become shells. While Jonathan was not proactive, allowing himself to be blindsided by those who wanted to end his reign and scuttle his party’s dream of a 60-year rule, Tinubu can be said to be wary, thinking ahead, and staying on top of his game.

To defeat someone who is politically conscious, with tentacles in almost all spheres of Nigeria’s being, like Tinubu, is not going to be a tea party. Add to that the reality that most leaders of the opposition parties, in more ways than one, continue to enjoy privileges from the centre. One can then say the Wazirin Adamawa and company have a lot of work ahead of them.

From this, one can understand why they are courting Buhari and want him to be on their side. Buhari has been touted to have twelve million votes in his kitty, and just half of those millions can sway any election outcome towards where they lean.

Political convenience, the craving for relevance, and survival instincts may ultimately persuade the retired general to give a discreet nod of approval to the gathering opposition. In reality, some factors influence leaders' decisions, as they are invariably captives of those elements. The first component is the people close to the leader who have his ear and have positioned themselves to sometimes be his voice or image.

These vital links to Buhari have been under fire since the assumption of office by the current president, with some key figures among them facing corruption charges. Those around the former president fear this will escalate when Tinubu returns in 2027. Some fear that even if Buhari is not directly indicted, his image would be sullied. And so, the operation “Tinubu Must Be Stopped” begins.

But like all people seeking power, they must find good reasons that resonate with the populace, and apparently, there are plenty that they can play around with. In a normal situation, the average human being is never content with their situation, agitating for change, running after what they see as greener pastures. What more of us in an abnormal situation?

Buhari is still revered by those who admire his kind of person, so having him on your side may help, but still, Tinubu is not Jonathan—or even Obasanjo. One may not be far from the truth in saying Tinubu pulled out a victory from the jaws of a reluctant, dilly-dallying President Buhari.

Please spare us your ‘truth’

I want to appeal to the former president to allow Nigerians to rest, breathe and face their challenges.  Last week, he advised the All Progressives Congress (APC) Governors "to accord importance to the welfare of the people, not themselves."

He confided in them that he “left office with the same physical assets” he had before his presidency.

Such unsolicited statements may cast doubts in the minds of many right-thinking Nigerians, and some may lament that “he should have left many other things in Nigeria the way he found them,” despite his efforts, tame at best, in containing Boko Haram.

But he may not fear such backlash because, as Senator Ndume is wont to say, “He still has attack dogs that would bark.”

Yet, he says things even some of his die-hard supporters would involuntarily rub their ears when they hear them. For instance, there were many times he said he had only two houses: one in Daura and the other in Kaduna. Then, at an APC caucus meeting in Katsina, he volunteered—free of charge—to his audience that “after my eight years as a civilian president, I have only three houses; one in Daura and two in Kaduna. I have given one out for renting, where I get money for feeding.” Buhari gets money to feed from the rent of one house in Kaduna!

However, (officially) all former presidents and heads of state in Nigeria are entitled to a monthly upkeep allowance of N350,000, which totals N4.2 million annually.

They also receive other benefits, including security personnel such as three to four armed policemen and a State Security Service officer as an aide-de-camp (ADC).

Additionally, they are provided three vehicles, replaced every four years, a diplomatic passport for life, and free medical treatment for themselves and their immediate family within Nigeria. If needed, they can also receive medical treatment abroad at the Federal Government’s expense. Other perks include a 30-day annual vacation, a well-furnished office, and a five-bedroom house in a location of their choice.

It is this kind of “truth-telling” that may lead to threats of court actions by people who utter them when confronted. But there shouldn’t be any fear because, like those waiting for Ribadu to take Naja’atu to court, we may wait forever for that to happen.

"Today, nearly everything is made in China - except courage; it's made in Palestine." - Anthony Bourdain.

Anyone conversant with world affairs knows what's happening in the Middle East. One does not have to belong to a particular faith to take an interest in events there because, where humanity is concerned, all divine religions agree on the sanctity of human life.

Even though Nigeria has unending problems, that does not mean one should shut out other humans and their suffering. It's like saying we don't have enough food, so we would not give someone in dire need, even a bite.

We have seen the devastating attacks on the Gaza Strip, Lebanon, and Syria by Israel. The situation in Gaza, with a population of about 2.5 million, is particularly tragic. As of March 4, 2025, over 50,000 men, women, and children have been killed, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. Among them are 166 journalists and media workers, 120 academics, and over 224 humanitarian aid workers, including 179 employees of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), a UN agency established to provide assistance and protection to registered Palestinian refugees.

It is estimated that 80 per cent of the Palestinians killed were civilians, and 70 per cent of those killed in residential buildings or similar housing were women and children. At least 112,719 have been wounded. In other words, one in every 50 people in Gaza has been killed, and one in every 20 has been injured.

Similarly, nearly 70 per cent of all structures in Gaza have been destroyed or damaged, along with 92 per cent of all housing units. There is nothing left except rubble, which the United Nations has said would take at least 15 years to clear, with 100 trucks working full-time, and reconstructing the Strip would require over $53bn.

The destruction is deliberate. And Israel, which has a displacement agenda, does not want the area rebuilt; it wants Gazans to leave the land completely, and finally. The best way to achieve that is to kill and maim them, destroy their lands, and render them homeless - in short, make the environment unfit for living.

This idea was echoed by Israel through Donald Trump's mouth when he opined that the people there should be displaced elsewhere, "where they would be safe, where no one would kill them." He did not mention who wanted to kill them and why, even though the world knows who. He did not say anything about sanctioning those who have wrought this murderous expedition on hapless civilians. No, instead, he continued arming Israel with devastating weapons. When he recently stopped aid to other countries, Israel was not affected.

When that idea of displacing Gazans on behalf of Israel met a brick wall, Israel, with America’s encouragement, reneged on the ceasefire and, in a strategy of territorial nullification, resumed its attacks to make Gazans so disillusioned as to leave their land. Food, medicine, and other relief materials were denied entrance to the beleaguered, desolate, and hungry Gazans during the holy month of Ramadhan. Sometimes, Israel even dropped poisoned candies for hungry children.

Jeffrey David Sachs, an American economist and public policy analyst who is a professor at Columbia University, said: “Israel, under Netanyahu, has planned seven wars in five years to overthrow foreign governments that oppose Israel’s domination and recreate the map of a ‘New Middle East’ without a Palestinian State. Rather than making peace, Netanyahu makes endless war.”

In a write-up in many international policy journals titled Defending the U.S. from the Israel Lobby, Sachs said, “The governments to be fought and dismantled are those of Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Iran.”

But Israel does not fight directly; it uses America. It's like the case of the tail wagging the dog, with Israel being the tail and America the dog.

He further wrote, “Iraq was to be the first of the seven wars in five years, but as Fritz explains, the follow-up wars were delayed by the anti-U.S. Iraqi insurgency. Nonetheless, the U.S. eventually went to war or backed wars against Iraq, Syria, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Lebanon. In other words, the U.S. carried out Netanyahu’s plans—except for Iran. To this day, indeed to this hour, Netanyahu works to stoke a U.S. war on Iran, one that could open World War III, either by Iran making the breakthrough to nuclear weapons or by Iran’s ally, Russia, joining such a war on Iran’s side.”

Now, only Iran remains. Apart from being one of the countries earmarked to be fought, it is the only Muslim country that is not beholden to the West or living in awe of Israel. It is independent, respects the sovereignty of other nations, and demands that its sovereignty be respected. It does not lean on any superpower, living up to the creed of its revolutionary and spiritual leader, Imam Ayatollah Khomeini, who said: "neither East nor West." There is no country on Earth that Israel loves to hate like Iran.

America has been questioning Iran's right to develop its nuclear potential for peaceful purposes.

Trump issued a two-month ultimatum: "negotiate or face military action." But for 20 months, Iran and the P5+1 (the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council—China, France, Russia, the U.K., and the U.S., plus Germany), along with the European Union, negotiated an agreement signed in Vienna on 14 July 2015.

Called the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), the agreement placed significant restrictions on Iran’s nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief. But President Trump unilaterally withdrew the United States from the deal in 2018, claiming it failed to curtail Iran’s missile programme and regional influence.

So, which agreement does he now want within two months?

We should not forget that, in all this, nobody is asking Israel about its nuclear programme. While America is quick to tell the world that Israel has a right to self-defence, you never hear them say that Lebanon, Palestine, or Iran have similar rights.

Can we all see America’s double standards here? How Janus-faced it is! This can be seen in its attack on the Houthis.

America was deeply involved in the ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel. But when Israel, which had no intention of halting its bombardment of Gaza in the first place, reneged and stopped relief materials from reaching Gaza while intensifying its unprovoked attacks on the people, America was silent. The Houthis told the mediators of the ceasefire deal what was happening, but Israel was not cautioned. Then, the Houthis gave four days for the genocide to stop, or they would resume fighting as well.

Because the attacks and blockade continued, the Houthis blocked the Red Sea and aimed their attacks at Israeli-related ships carrying mainly cargo that might allow them to continue their war on Gaza. The Americans, who have been telling the world that they care about freedom and justice, could not tell the Israelis to stop. No. Instead, they started attacking the Houthis while continuing to give Israel money and weapons.

Jeffrey David Sachs concluded his write-up with this piece of advice: “The real issue facing the Trump Administration is not defending Israel from its neighbours, who repeatedly call, almost daily, for peace based on the two-state solution. The real issue is defending the U.S. from the Israel Lobby.”

Trump now says anything the Houthis do would be seen as done by Iran, just so the dog would do the bidding of the tail to complete the seven wars Trump has been seeking excuses for, like a man clutching at straws. Today, it is a threat to "negotiate in two months or..."; next, it is "whatever the Houthis do is done by you"; then it’s "you are producing nuclear weapons." This is America living by double standards and Janus-faced relationships. But now you see why it has to attack Iran.

War risk insurance (WRI) is an additional surcharge imposed by international shipping companies on cargo bound for Nigeria. It comprises two key components: war risk liability, which covers people and goods aboard the vessel and is calculated based on the indemnity amount, and war risk hull, which covers the vessel itself and is determined by its value.

This financial burden was initially introduced during the height of Niger Delta militancy and piracy. Although the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics does not have precise data on the total WRI payments made to international insurers, available figures indicate that Nigeria has paid over $1.5 billion in the past three years alone to Lloyd’s of London, Protection and Indemnity (P&I) insurance, and other foreign insurance firms.

The impact on Nigeria’s economy is staggering: for a Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) valued at $130 million, the WRI surcharge per voyage is approximately $445,000. For new container vessels valued at $150 million, the cost rises to $525,000 per voyage. Maersk, one of the world’s largest shipping companies, has also introduced a transit disruption surcharge of up to $450 per container, while other shipping lines impose a war risk surcharge of $40–$50 per 20-foot container. 

Recognising the severe economic implications of this financial burden, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) under the leadership of Dr. Dayo Mobereola has launched an aggressive campaign to eliminate war risk insurance on Nigeria-bound cargo. The NIMASA Act and the Merchant Shipping Act mandate the agency to promote shipping development, and removing the WRI premium has become a central focus of its maritime reforms. The security concerns that originally justified these premiums no longer exist. Nigeria has not recorded a single piracy incident in over three years, and in 2021, the International Maritime Bureau (IMB) officially removed Nigeria from its list of piracy-prone countries.

Over the past five years, NIMASA, in collaboration with the Nigerian Navy, has led an unprecedented crackdown on piracy in the Gulf of Guinea, earning global recognition from the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Despite these achievements, international shipping companies have continued to impose war risk insurance premiums on Nigeria-bound cargoes. In 2023, the International Bargaining Forum (IBF) further validated Nigeria’s progress by delisting the country from the list of high-risk maritime nations. With piracy no longer a concern, why has the international shipping community continued to impose these excessive premiums?

 NIGERIA’S EFFORTS TO MITIGATE WRI PREMIUMS

To address this issue, Nigeria through the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and the Ministry of Defense made significant investments in maritime security through initiatives like the Deep Blue Project, which has successfully eliminated piracy in the country’s waters for over 30 consecutive months—a record unmatched anywhere in the world. In addition, Nigeria collaborates closely with the IMO and other international bodies to combat maritime threats, further reducing its risk classification. IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez has publicly commended Nigeria’s efforts in securing the Gulf of Guinea. Despite these improvements, shipowners and insurers have refused to acknowledge Nigeria’s new security status, continuing to levy exorbitant premiums on vessels operating in the country.

MOBEREOLA’S INTERNATIONAL DIPLOMACY: BRINGING GLOBAL ATTENTION TO THE ISSUE

Determined to break this cycle of financial exploitation, Dr. Mobereola under the directives of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola took Nigeria’s case to international stakeholders, urging them to support the removal of war risk insurance premiums. In a major diplomatic move, he engaged Chatham House, where he met with Dr. Alex Vines, Director of the Africa Programme, who agreed to escalate the matter to the United Nations. NIMASA has also engaged major global shipping organisations, including:

• BIMCO (Baltic and International Maritime Council), the world’s largest shipping association.

• The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS). • INTERCARGO (International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners).

• INTERTANKO (International Association of Independent Tanker Owners). In discussions with these organizations, Dr. Mobereola emphasized that Nigeria has invested billions in maritime security, yet continues to be unfairly penalized. He urged the global shipping community to recognise the country’s improved security status and remove the unjustified WRI premiums. 

Stinne Taiger Ivø, Deputy Secretary General of BIMCO, acknowledged Nigeria’s progress and stated that shipowners should take the lead in pushing for lower premiums. Similarly, Zhou Xianyong of INTERCARGO assured NIMASA of their support in Nigeria’s campaign to be delisted from war risk insurance premium zones. Reducing these premiums is critical for Nigeria’s competitiveness in global trade. Lower shipping costs will Encourage more international trade, Attract foreign investment, and Strengthen Nigeria’s position as a leading blue economy player.

Recently, NIMASA met with a Danish delegation led by Kristin Skov-Spilling, Chief Technical Advisor from the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, urging Denmark to advocate for a reduction in war risk insurance premiums. Some critics argue that Denmark cannot intervene in private insurance matters, but this argument is flawed. Denmark has a significant interest in Maersk Line, which contributes over 15% of the country’s GDP. If Denmark exerts pressure on Maersk, other shipping companies will likely follow suit.

Dr. Dayo Mobereola and his Management team at NIMASA have successfully brought global attention to Nigeria’s unfair war risk insurance burden. Now, it is time for all stakeholders—government, industry, and international bodies—to support the removal of this unjustified premium. Nigeria has fulfilled its obligations, securing its waters and eliminating piracy. Yet, foreign insurance firms continue to profit while Nigerian businesses and consumers bear the costs. The message is clear: Nigeria cannot continue paying war risk insurance premiums indefinitely. The time for change is now and lets sustain the momentum.

OSAGIE EDWARD, FNIPR is the Head of Public Relations at the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA

Nigeria these days reminds me of the popular children's novel back in the day, One Week One Trouble, written in 1972 by Anezionwu Nwankwo Okoro, a Nigerian writer and medical practitioner. 

The protagonist, Wilson Tagbo, begins secondary school, but his flaws soon put him at odds with the school system, and no week passes without him landing in fresh trouble at the school.

In our country these days, hardly a week passes without the public space being thrown ‘one trouble’ that would have everyone huffing and puffing for a while before another issue comes up to push that one aside. Only in our case, sometimes the trouble does not wait for up to one week.

Before last week, it was the vexatious Supreme Court of Judgement ruling (President Jonathan just spoke the minds of most Nigerians about the capture of that arm of government). Then there was the Natasha bombshell.

Last week, there was the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State and the role of the National Assembly; then there was the purported Natasha recall. What about the Corper who said ‘terrible’ alongside PBAT's name, and some hell was let loose?

But you know what? I am not touching on any of them now, as there is the appropriate time for everything. In any case, we are just writing for the records, for posterity to vindicate us. Those we write to draw their attention to where things are going wrong hardly care a hoot.

And so, distinguished Senator Natasha Hadiza Akpoti-Uduaghan reported the Nigerian Senate President (SP) and the Red Chamber to the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU).

Founded in 1889 by Englishman William Randal Cremer and Frenchman Frédéric Passy when there were no established means for governments or parliaments to work together internationally, it was the first multilateral political organisation in the world.

Senator Natasha’s complaint to the IPU may not see us witnessing her traducer in the dock, sweating and defensively answering questions. However, we may learn one or two things from the IPU’s proceedings and expect repercussions that may not speak well for us.

For starters, Senator Akpoti was suspended despite a valid court order restraining the Senate from sitting over her case. Why do we not respect our courts? Have they been doing things that have eroded the respect they ought to have? Perhaps President Bola Tinubu, who admonished the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, to obey court orders, may have to tell the Senate leadership the same.

The Ethics Committee that reviewed her case did not hear her side of the story. Compare that with the IPU Speaker, who said they must hear “from the other side”.

Natasha went to the IPU because she felt she was denied a fair hearing, the kind IPU is giving “the other side.” She might also have assumed, rightly or wrongly, that she might not get justice from the nation’s judiciary for probably two reasons. One is how the Senate, not only its Ethics Committee, went ahead to sit and punish her despite a court order. The second may be because of fear being peddled in some quarters that some powerful politicians in the country are hell-bent on “capturing” (that is if they have not already “captured”) some members of the judiciary and manipulating.

But this frustration with the system not giving the weak a level playing ground and the perception that the law courts are no longer the last hope of the common man have conspired to place Nigerians in a situation of despair. And sadness.

We should not forget that a lack of opportunity to be heard, to be offered a level playing field, and to get justice will always make one look for alternatives. Once people believe they are marked, the instinct is to seek understanding and support elsewhere. Many activists found themselves in that situation after the June 12 debacle; they reported Nigeria to the international community, and we all saw how our country became a pariah nation.

The cry of a miscarriage of justice is not limited to the masses as before. Now, even powerful politicians, some governors, can feel it. A whole state can be emasculated to serve the interest of one man and some judges would back him with legal calisthenics! The Constitution is no longer the guiding light. Sadly, those with deep pockets now play the pipe that some judges dance to. That is why they are so confident in telling you: go to court, go to court.

But then, this new reality is pregnant with danger - danger for the country and danger for constitutional democracy.

But as more Nigerians become exasperated by unbridled injustice because of an emasculated justice delivery system, we will witness them seeking justice outside our shores, amounting to reporting the country to the world. An Igbo adage says that when family members fight during a meal, the neighbours will find out what the menu is.

Natasha’s reporting to the IPU should serve as a wake-up call for Nigeria to put its house in order. All institutions and individuals in the justice dispensation system must dispense justice and be seen to do so.

I came across a video clip where the SP was labouring to get the Senate to voice a vote that Natasha must apologise in writing before her suspension is reduced. He had to take the voice vote about thrice and hit the gavel on what he wanted, not what the voice votes indicated.

It was a pathetic show and showed how a just leader should not behave. A just leader gives those beneath him their rights and behaves fairly towards them. Vindictiveness does not have room in his heart, and he can go to the high heavens to pluck his subjects’ rights and bring them back to them on earth. When a "cantankerous" subject’s dues are about to slip away, a just leader pushes them back to that subject. Magnanimity, generosity, forgiveness, justice, and fairness are the hallmarks of great leaders. Do we have a semblance of this among those who call the shots in the three arms of government? Tell yourself the answer.

To avoid washing our country's dirty linen before the glare of the international community, save ourselves from global opprobrium, and stop endangering our hard-earned democracy, our leaders must imbibe the characteristics of great leaders.

Failure to do so would only see a growing number of Nigerians going the Natasha route. Our luck is that Donald Trump’s eyes are not on Nigeria. They are on Gaza, Greenland (the world’s largest island), Canada and the Panama Canal, and he wants to annex them. If not, he would have added us among those he wants to annex.

And they closed the schools…

What is it with us northerners that we seem hell-bent on looking for anyone who would deceive us? And it is as if we beg and pray to be deceived and love the feeling. If not, why are we seething and fighting for people who close secondary schools for students to “enjoy fasting”?

The governors who closed schools all fasted as students without being chased home because the governments were sincere and did not shirk the responsibility of feeding the students. No school calendar was changed because of Ramadan. We were fed suhur (dawn) and iftar (fast-breaking) meals.  Now, the governors have budgeted billions to “feed” indigents because they know it cannot be traced. They know the amount spent feeding students can be estimated - even traced - because the students are defined and their numbers are known. What do the governors do? They send them home to their struggling parents - an indefinite hoi polloi - who they intend to feed with “billions”. Haba! Why did they not close tertiary institutions? Because it is not the government that feeds them! Please, Dan  Arewa, wake up and smell the coffee!

Imagine waking up to hear that your Governor, Deputy Governor, and State Lawmakers have all been suspended—without warning, without a court ruling, and without due process. That’s what happened recently in Rivers State, where a presidential directive removed elected officials and replaced the State Government with an Appointee. The move has shaken public confidence and raised urgent questions: Can democracy survive if votes can be so easily disregarded? If so, who is really in charge—the people or the presidency?

The Nigerian Constitution allows the President to declare a state of emergency during grave national threats such as war or natural disasters. Even then, it does not grant the President the authority to remove elected officials. If a governor must be removed, Section 188 of the Constitution outlines a specific process—impeachment—which begins in the State House of Assembly. That process must not be replaced with a unilateral broadcast from the Presidency.

That is precisely what makes the President’s action in Rivers State so troubling. The sudden suspension of a sitting governor and legislators, without impeachment or a court ruling, appears not only irregular but possibly unconstitutional. More concerning is that this precedent, once set, could be repeated in other states—and, indeed, already is. Each time it is tolerated, the foundation of Nigeria’s Federal Democracy weakens.

The idea that executive overreach can now be justified as “a child of necessity” has begun to embolden leaders and political actors at various levels. Dr. Shola Agboola, Ondo State SDP leader, publicly praised the President’s action as a wise move—likening it to the wisdom of King Solomon. He described the six-month suspension of Rivers State Officials as a strategy to "calm political nerves" and "give Governor Siminalayi Fubara a soft landing." This kind of praise reveals a growing tolerance for unconstitutional shortcuts disguised as political wisdom.

Ironically, President Tinubu once stood firmly against this kind of executive overreach. In 2013, when President Goodluck Jonathan declared a state of emergency in three northern states plagued by Boko Haram, he did not suspend elected officials. Yet Tinubu, then in opposition, accused him of trying to intimidate governors and warned that such interference would undermine democracy. That context makes his current actions not only contradictory but deeply disappointing.

Even at the height of the insurgency, Jonathan Administration respected democratic structures. Attorney-General Mohammed Adoke clarified that the Constitution did not permit the removal of Governors during emergencies. That restraint upheld the people’s mandate and preserved constitutional order—even in crisis. It is a standard worth preserving, not discarding.

In fact, this precedent has already sparked disturbing ripple effects. In states facing governance or political gridlock, citizens are now openly calling on the President to suspend Opposition Governments—not through legal oversight or constitutional means, but by executive order. This alarming shift is a direct consequence of what happened in Rivers, where unconstitutional suspension was framed as crisis management. What was once unthinkable is now being normalised—and that should concern every Nigerian who values Democracy.

Now, to justify this clear overreach, the Federal Government claims that the President merely “saved” Governor Fubara from impeachment by suspending him. This argument is not only misleading—it shifts attention away from the real issue: the violation of due process. In no democracy does a President “assist” an elected governor by bypassing constitutional mechanisms for removal. Rather than offering protection, this move undermines the people’s mandate and weakens the foundation of democratic governance.

Some have even floated the idea that a governor might invite the President to suspend them in the name of peace or political compromise. But this is both unconstitutional and out of step with democratic norms. Nigeria operates a Federal System, and Governors are not subordinates of the President—they are independently elected by the People and can only be removed through due process. The Constitution provides no room for voluntary suspension, nor does it give the President the authority to accept such a request.

Academic research supports these warnings. A major study in the European Journal of Political Economy confirms that countries with vague or unchecked emergency powers tend to abuse them—not to solve crises, but to suppress opposition. The Brennan Center for Justice has similarly warned that emergency powers must be temporary, legal, and subject to checks and balances. Otherwise, they become tools to silence critics and evade accountability.

If a Governor breaks the Law, there’s a process: investigate, charge, and impeach. That’s how democracy enforces accountability without sacrificing legality. Bypassing due process tells Nigerians that raw power—not the Rule of Law—decides leadership. And once that becomes acceptable, democracy begins to erode.

This is no longer just about Rivers. The erosion of democratic accountability has begun to fester across the system. And once that trust is broken, rebuilding it becomes nearly impossible. What we normalize today may come back to haunt all political actors tomorrow.

The National Assembly, which endorsed the Rivers State emergency, must now consider the long-term damage of its decision. Today they empower one branch to silence another; tomorrow, it may be used against them. The Constitution protects all Nigerians—not just those temporarily in control. Defending it is the only safeguard against tyranny.

True leadership is not about control. It is about restraint, lawfulness, and respect for institutions. This moment calls not for more political gymnastics, but for a return to constitutional fidelity. Because once democracy is lost—piece by piece—it rarely returns whole.

Poverty remains one of the biggest struggles in Nigeria. Millions of people hustle daily just to put food on the table. When unexpected problems like a health emergency or job loss hit, things can quickly spiral out of control. One popular way the government and NGOs try to help is through small cash grants.

However, with recent cuts to USAID funding, foreign aid is shrinking, leaving the responsibility squarely on the Nigerian Government to step up its efforts. These are direct payments given to low-income individuals and families to help them cover immediate expenses. Some experts believe that cash grants can help break the cycle of poverty by giving people the boost they need to invest in better opportunities. Others argue that while useful in the short term, these grants do not fix the bigger problems like lack of access to credit, poor infrastructure, and limited job opportunities.

One of the biggest challenges poor Nigerians face is unstable income. Imagine you’re a roadside food seller who depends on daily sales to survive. If you fall sick for a few days, you won’t be able to work, which could mean missing meals or not paying rent. Small cash grants can help smooth things over by giving families money to handle sudden problems like this.

Many studies show that when people receive small cash grants, they use them for essential needs like food, healthcare, and school fees. Some even use them to boost their businesses by purchasing more goods or expanding their services. Nigeria’s TraderMoni program provided small grants to market traders, but with inflation driving up the cost of goods and services, the N10,000 grant is no longer enough to make a meaningful impact. Rising prices have significantly reduced its purchasing power, making it difficult for recipients to sustain their businesses.

Many traders find that after buying a few essential items, there is little left to reinvest or expand their businesses. While the grant may help restock goods, it does not provide enough capital for long-term financial stability. With the high cost of living, even food and transportation costs eat into the grant’s usefulness, leaving little room for economic growth. Programs like GiveDirectly, which sends unconditional cash to people in extreme poverty, have also shown that when people get money, they make smart decisions, but the amount must be sufficient to create lasting change.

While cash grants help in the short term, they don’t fix the bigger, long-term problems that keep people poor. Many Nigerians don’t have access to loans or affordable credit. Even if they want to expand their businesses or invest in education, they can’t because banks are not always willing to give loans to low-income individuals. When they do, the interest rates can be outrageously high, making borrowing nearly impossible and further widening the gap between the rich and the poor.

Another major issue is poor infrastructure, which makes it difficult for businesses to grow. Farmers in rural areas, for example, may receive small cash grants to buy better seeds or fertilisers. However, they still struggle with bad roads, lack of electricity for storage, and unstable market prices. While the grant helps temporarily, it does not change the fact that they operate in a tough environment with limited opportunities.

High interest rate spreads also make it harder for businesses and individuals to access affordable credit. With lending rates soaring as high as 19 percent in recent years, many Nigerians cannot afford to take loans to expand their businesses or invest in productive assets. The cost of borrowing discourages investment, reduces job creation, and limits economic growth. When banks face high borrowing costs from the Central Bank, they pass these costs onto customers, making credit out of reach for many. This financial barrier, combined with shrinking foreign aid, places even greater pressure on the Nigerian government to develop policies that foster a more inclusive financial system.

At the same time, the Nigerian Government’s high borrowing levels mean that banks and investors prefer lending to the government rather than to individuals or businesses. This phenomenon, known as "crowding out," discourages private sector investment and further restricts economic opportunities. Additionally, Nigeria’s debt servicing now consumes a significant portion of government revenue, leaving fewer resources for critical development projects. This cycle of high interest rates and limited access to affordable loans deepens poverty and prevents long-term economic stability.

When people know they don’t have a safety net, they tend to play it safe. A keke Marwa (tricycle) driver who struggles with an old vehicle may receive a small grant. Instead of investing in a bigger opportunity, he may choose to fix the old keke rather than take a loan to buy a new one because he’s afraid of debt. The same happens with small business owners who prefer low-risk ventures instead of taking the leap into bigger, more profitable businesses.

This fear of risk is common in poor communities because people cannot afford to fail. Without proper support systems like insurance, credit access, and financial education, many Nigerians will always choose stability over potential long-term growth. For cash grants to have a lasting impact, they must come with broader changes. More people need access to loans, savings, and insurance to help them take smarter risks and grow financially.

Programmes that combine cash grants with financial training can help recipients make better investment choices. Better roads, electricity, and internet access will make it easier for small business owners and farmers to scale up their operations. Instead of relying only on handouts, the government should create more opportunities through skill development and vocational training. Job placement programs can also help people find stable sources of income.

Local cooperatives or community savings groups can provide long-term support for those who receive cash grants. This will ensure they continue to grow after the grant money is spent and reduce dependence on one-time cash aid. Small cash grants provide relief but are not a permanent solution to poverty in Nigeria. With foreign aid like USAID no longer as reliable and high interest rates making borrowing difficult, the government must invest in long-term economic solutions rather than temporary handouts.

While cash grants help people get through tough times, the bigger challenge is creating an environment where people can take risks, grow businesses, and build wealth. This means fixing financial systems, improving infrastructure, and ensuring access to better jobs. The real question is whether we should keep giving out small cash grants or focus more on changing the systems that make people poor in the first place. A balanced approach—providing immediate relief while tackling long-term barriers—is the key to sustainable poverty reduction in Nigeria.

"It's a matter of taking the side of the weak against the strong, something the best people have always done." - Harriet Beecher Stowe.

Not as many people know the popular novel Uncle Tom's Cabin (1852), which depicts the harsh conditions experienced by enslaved African Americans, as they know its author, Harriet Elisabeth Beecher Stowe (June 14, 1811 – July 1, 1896). She was an American Author and Abolitionist. Coming from the religious Beecher family, her book reached an audience of millions as both a novel and a play. It became influential in the United States and Great Britain, energizing anti-slavery forces in the American North while provoking widespread anger in the South.

As an abolitionist—someone who sought to abolish slavery—and advocate for the full emancipation of enslaved people, Harriet stood by the weak. There is virtue in standing by the weak and vulnerable. It is also a core Islamic virtue, exemplified by Prophet Muhammad's actions and teachings. A virtue rooted in compassion, justice, and the protection of the vulnerable. He stood for the oppressed, including the poor, orphans, and widows.

But Natasha is neither poor nor a widow. The beauty who made heads turn on her first day in the Senate (recall the senator who had to be called to order when he started talking about her beauty on the Senate floor) is also not voiceless.

But despite a beauty so astounding that a former senator, who was also a minister, had to confess to the world that: “The beauty of Distinguished Senator Natasha is a problem to her,” and that “there is no way, when she is passing, that a man will not look at that woman,” my leaning towards her is because she is the underdog, and I am one person who loves to pitch his tent with the underdog. Some say this predilection is rooted in compassion, empathy, justice, and a commitment to protecting those who cannot defend themselves.

However, Natasha is an Amazon who can defend herself. Ask Yahaya Bello. I am sure he would tell you she is "one hell" of an uncommon woman he would never want to have as an opponent. And this is why I laughed when the Senate President (SP), Godswill Akpabio, lamented that her actions had traumatised the Senate. That ₦15bn clinic he plans to build for senators should be a Trauma Centre because, with Natasha, as the Americans would say, "he ain't seen no trauma yet."

Even her name, Natasha, is uncommon in Nigeria. Though well-known and commonly used in Ukraine, it is Russian. It is a diminutive form of the Latin name Natalia, meaning "born on Christmas Day" or "birthday of the Lord." She might have gotten that name courtesy of her Ukrainian mother, Ludmila Kravchenko, from Rakitna, Chernivtsi, in Ukraine. But without a doubt, her beauty was inherited from her mother. It looks like it is not only the beauty she got from her mummy but also her fighting spirit. Did you not see how Ukraine took on Mighty Russia? We are not talking about the wisdom, but the "balls" to not back down from a fight.

Again, that fighting spirit may have come to her from two sides. Barrister Natasha Hadiza Akpoti, born on December 9, 1979, in Ilorin, was sired by a Nigerian Igbira father, Dr. Jimoh Abdul Akpoti, from Ihima, of the Emani clan in Kogi State. The Igbira are known warriors, but those of Iheme, particularly the Emani, are more dreaded.

Many people tend to assume that Natasha was suspended—a suspension that is under contention—for six months because she alleged that the SP harassed her sexually. No, the "gadfly" belle of the red chamber was hammered with a six-month suspension purportedly because she went against a Senate rule. And going against Senate rules means your constituency would pay for it by your suspension! But we know West Idahosa (SAN), revealed that he heard the SP instructing that Natasha’s suspension be prepared even before the Ethics Committee deliberated on her “crime.”

One may want to know where the other female senators were when their colleague was being hounded. Rightly or wrongly, there is an unwritten law for kindred to look out for each other, even if they would talk the truth to themselves behind closed doors later.

However, those waiting to see that may wait till “Thy Kingdom Come” because Nigerian women are not known to stand by their ilk. Sarah Jibril can attest to that. Despite her advocacy for the emancipation and empowerment of Nigerian women and children, she got only one vote (apparently hers) at the 2011 Peoples Democratic Party’s presidential primary elections despite the many female delegates who voted. She fared better four years earlier when she got four votes.

Some would say most Nigerian women prefer to behave like the women in the following story: “Soldiers entered a village and raped all the women. Only one resisted a soldier, killed him, and cut off his head! After the soldiers completed their mission and returned to their barracks, all the women came out of their houses with torn clothes, crying, except her! She exited her house with the soldier's head in her hands. Her look was full of pride, and she said, ‘Did you think I would let him rape me without killing him or him killing me?’ The women in the village looked at each other and decided that she should be killed so that their husbands would not ask them why they did not resist like her! She was attacked and murdered. They murdered Honour so that shame could live.”

Perhaps this is why Bisi Fayemi, former First Lady of Ekiti State, condemned former senators Florence Ita-Giwa and Biodun Olujimi and serving senator Ireti Kingibe for not supporting Natasha. “Senator Kingibe, Olujimi, and Ita-Giwa's submissions on Senator Natasha are very disappointing,” she said.

There was a senator who even dragged the name of his former governor into the fray to score a point and perhaps look good in the SP's books, but his governor punctured his balloon; we have not heard from him since.

Most senators behaved like conspiring vultures circling over a kill to take their share of the flesh!

Beyond all this, one can see why women, the beautiful and the not-so-beautiful ones, are sceptical of joining politics, and why husbands, the good and even the not-so-good ones, are afraid to let their wives associate with politicians.

Natasha’s travail reveals that the opposition in Nigeria, whose vibrancy should be seen in the legislative house, is dying, if not dead. No senator from other parties was seen standing by her. It was a day when supposed vibrant senators went MIA (Missing in Action). And that is how they will each be picked, pecked, heckled, and cowered into a state of “Sidon look.”

The opposition, or probably all Senators, should read the story of the rat who called a meeting of farm animals in panic and told them that the farmer had set a rat trap. The pigeon, chicken, goat, and cow all “sympathised” with him but insisted it was his problem since they were not rats. The story ended tragically for them, minus the rat.

Natasha’s story is a lesson for all, not only politicians. Learn to fight your battles discreetly and gather enough facts. The moment your opponent not only deciphers but sees where you are going, you are a goner.

I write this from a point of pain and gratitude. Pain because of the death of a hardworking and honest man, Rotimi Olaleye, who is both a great father, as attested to by his children who he has been taking care of single handedly since his wife died about five years ago, and an honest and diligent auto mechanic, as confirmed by his clients, including yours truly. We met less than a week before his death, but he left an unforgettable impression on me, even in death.

Gratitude? I was less than 10 seconds away with my wife and first child from where Olaleye was when the fire that took his life occurred.

Let me start from when I met Olaleye on March 8, 2025 following a need to change my mechanic. I was introduced to him by the best car air conditioning technician I had ever met, Akinola Ayeni. We drove the car together on that day. He spotted some issues, including the fact that the former handler was as careless as not putting the knots that should be holding the connecting ABS wire to the wheel of the driver’s side, by just driving the car. That was quickly fixed. And he told me, very honestly, that other things had to wait until Monday, because he needed to finish some other jobs. I thereafter left happily.

On Monday, I took the car to him. He appeared meticulous. Despite the fact that I told him that on completing the work on the Highlander, which my wife uses, I was going to send in my own car for servicing, he was not in a hurry to declare the vehicle fit.

On Tuesday morning, the first accident occurred on Otedola Bridge. My wife had to return home. By the way, we live in one of the most organised estates around OPIC in Ogun State. Before she returned, Olaleye had told me to stay that he was coming to meet me as he had already spent three hours from Mowe in Ogun State and was yet to get to Berger in Lagos State, a journey of less than 30 minutes. From that time on, he kept briefing me on developments until 6pm when he told me he was now satisfied with the car.

I immediately asked him if I could head in his direction. The answer was a no. He wanted to get the car washed. I told him I would take it to the car wash the following day. He said even if I do, it should still be washed. I gave up arguing.

Then at 7pm, Olaleye told me the washing had been completed by his apprentices. I called my wife that it was time to go home. By the way, we have our offices in the same building. By the time she came downstairs to meet me, I discovered that my first daughter, Ewaoluwa, a 500 Level student of Chemical Engineering, who had requested to follow us home, was yet to leave her friend’s house. So we waited for her for a few minutes.

When we eventually set out, we discovered we needed to buy drinking water for the house. My wife and daughter said we should buy it close to the office in Ogba area of Lagos State because each bottle was N400 cheaper than what we would get close to the house. That would save us some cool N2,000. I said no because Olaleye was waiting for us. As I zoomed past the supermarket on the way, my wife said let’s buy the water. I stopped and reversed. We spent about 10 minutes doing that.

Thereafter, we meandered our way through the New Afrika Shrine area onto the Opay building, less than two minutes to where Olaleye was waiting for us. He said he was already by the gate of the mechanic village, which was to the right of Otedola Bridge, underneath. So I told him emphatically in Yoruba: “E maa ri wa ni iseju kan (You will see us in one minute).”

As we descended the bridge and approached the divider that separated those heading towards the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway and those going to CMD Road, just about 10 seconds to where Olaleye had already parked both his car and ours, my wife was the first to notice a truck that had obviously lost control.

Instinct immediately set in and I changed course towards CMD Road. And in split seconds, the truck crashed, the seal of the tanker burst open and the sky became blue, an indication that the truck was bearing gas. Between the seconds when we saw the truck and when the seal opened, I had dialled the last number on the dashboard of the car, which was that of Ayeni. It was ringing when the explosion occurred. And then followed the massive fire.

I was annoyingly slow for some people behind me. One woman came out of her car and started banging ours: “Move, move.” She did it a second time and I wound down the back glass, addressing her and my wife who had also become agitated: “We have a man down there. Let’s see if there is still something we can do before we go too far.” And then his line stopped ringing.

My head immediately told me to call Ayeni. As soon as he picked it up, he asked me: “Have you collected your car? Rotimi has parked by the gate and is waiting for you.” He did not even hear me saying there was trouble at the workshop until I shouted at the top of my voice. Ayeni, who was at Agidingbi, immediately turned back. He, alongside others, discovered the remains of Olaleye, lying face down. His apprentices who were with him said as the truck crashed, he told them to flee that he needed to “save his customer's car”. Meanwhile, his own car was just behind ours. He succeeded in turning the car around to face the workshop. But that was as far as he made it. I cried that night. Something I have not done in several years. I wept bitterly.

In the short period I knew Olaleye, I learnt a lot of lessons. He left an impact I would never forget. But it was a pity he didn’t pick my last call, which was to tell him to abandon the car and flee to safety. His meticulousness on the job was second to none from what I saw in the three days of being with him. He also knew his job. Adieu Olaleye.

STOP PRESS: I was informed as I was ending this piece that a staff of Zenith Bank Plc and his wife died in the accident. The husband was said to have just resumed from his annual vacation that day. He had just picked his wife and they were heading home when they were caught in the explosion. May their souls and those of others I do not know involved in the accident rest in peace.

To the Lagos State Government, bravo. The response by the emergency responders was swift. However, it was not enough. Only one fire truck arrived after 15 or 20 minutes of the fire. After it

exhausted its water, it took another 15 or 20 minutes for another to arrive. By the time Ayeni and others reached where Olaleye was, he was still breathing. But help did not reach him on time. But beyond that, the team did well. Despite the damages and the danger of dealing with a gas explosion, the scene was cleared well under 18 hours.

To the company that owns the truck that lost its brake and ended up ending no fewer than five lives and consuming properties that included cars and buildings, Second Coming Gas Company, I am torn between knocking them and giving them kudos. This was because of their response to the victims who were admitted in the hospital. The following day, the management staff had reached out to those in the hospital and met with the executives of the technicians association affected. They were making plans, like some of us are doing, to reach out to the children of Olaleye. I was told their mum died about five years ago. And the company is in discussion with the technicians on how to alleviate their losses.

But they could have done better. That truck was faulty as those who passed by it on CMD Road before it crashed noticed. The driver was, obviously, trying to manage it into the station on CMD Road. I imagine if it was in the station, which had drinking bars and other joints around it, the truck crashed.

I also pity Lagosians who have to pay N15,000 for third party insurance but get no benefit when the accident involves fire as a representative of Nicon Insurance Limited said. It amounts to gifting the company money for rendering limited services.

To the Federal Road Safety Corps and Lagos State Traffic Emergency Management Agency, you still have a long way to go. It appears the traffic laws in Lagos are meant more for private vehicle owners. Whereas we know that most infractions are committed by commercial vehicle owners, including the trucks that bear inflammable and heavy materials. When these agencies exercise their mandates fully, it is then those with warped minds will come to the realisation it is drivers who have no regard for lives and properties that are the cause of accidents on the Otedola and Kara Bridges.

In the realm of Political Leadership, the Presidential Oath is a solemn Promise to uphold Justice, Accountability, and Ethical Governance. Historical figures like Abraham Lincoln and George Washington set a high standard of moral leadership and unifying vision. Their legacies remind us that leadership should serve the public good above all else. However, recent actions by President Bola Tinubu raise serious concerns about his commitment to these ideals.

For many Nigerians, Tinubu was once admired as a stalwart of democratic ideals and ethical governance. His legacy is especially notable given his historical role in restoring democracy alongside stalwarts like my uncle, General Alani Akinrinade, during the struggle against Sani Abacha’s oppressive regime. Such partnerships once symbolised a commitment to national unity and moral leadership. Today, however, his actions increasingly suggest a departure from those high ideals.

Tinubu’s decision to overrule an advisory panel’s recommendation regarding the Lagos State House of Assembly is a striking example of his selective allegiance. The panel, led by respected figures such as Chief Bisi Akande, advised that Mudashiru Obasa step down amid serious allegations. Instead of heeding this counsel, Tinubu backed Obasa after a closed-door meeting with lawmakers. This decision indicates a troubling prioritization of political convenience over the ethical responsibilities inherent in his office.

The suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has further intensified debates over Tinubu’s moral leadership. While the Senate justified her removal on grounds of gross misconduct, her allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio remain highly contentious. Tinubu’s silence on these critical matters speaks volumes about his selective engagement with issues of justice. Such inaction undermines public trust and reflects a broader reluctance to enforce accountability.

The political crisis in Rivers State presents yet another instance of Tinubu’s hesitance to act decisively. Calls for intervention in the escalating tensions between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Minister Nyesom Wike have largely been met with inaction. This reluctance to resolve critical disputes underscores a pattern of favoring personal affiliations over the national interest. Consequently, such a stance weakens democratic processes and leaves citizens increasingly disillusioned.

The controversy in Osun State adds further weight to the criticism of Tinubu’s selective support. Although Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has raised concerns about improper directives affecting local governance, Tinubu’s response has been minimal. His lack of proactive engagement in Osun State reflects a consistent pattern of deferring to political loyalties rather than upholding the rule of law. This approach further highlights his diminishing commitment to the impartiality required by the presidential oath.

A particularly glaring example of Tinubu’s partisanship is his persistent backing of Mudashiru Obasa, despite widespread criticism. Obasa’s own admission of being “Tinubu’s boy” deepens the perception that personal loyalty is valued over objective accountability. Moreover, Tinubu’s failure to publicly distance himself from such overt partisanship corrodes the ethical standards expected of national leadership. This uncritical support signals a clear departure from the principles of fairness and accountability.

Each decision to support favored allies underscores a broader pattern of political expediency under Tinubu’s rule. His selective allegiance routinely overrides objective accountability and casts doubt on the integrity of his leadership. In doing so, this pattern not only undermines democratic institutions but also compromises the public’s faith in their government. Prioritizing personal connections over the common good is a dangerous path that steadily weakens the nation’s moral fabric.

The cumulative effect of these actions is a marked erosion of the ethical standards once expected of Nigerian leadership. Tinubu’s approach consistently favors political convenience and personal loyalty, often at the expense of justice and accountability. His selective support in various controversies leaves little room for unbiased governance. The persistent disregard for ethical principles signals a deepening crisis in moral leadership across the nation.

This decline in moral standards under Tinubu administration is evident across multiple facets of his governance. The selective endorsement of controversial figures, his silence on critical accountability issues, and his failure to intervene in pressing crises all contribute to this troubling trend. Such behavior steadily erodes the trust that is essential for a healthy democracy. Moreover, it sets a dangerous precedent for future governance in Nigeria.

President Tinubu’s recent actions illustrate a significant lapse in moral leadership and adherence to the presidential oath. His pattern of selective allegiances—prioritising personal loyalty over public accountability—has profoundly compromised the integrity of his office. Restoring public trust will require a steadfast commitment to transparency, fairness, and the common good. Only by reaffirming these ethical principles can Nigeria hope to rebuild its democratic foundations and secure a just future for all its citizens.

PROTOCOLS 

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communications, Innovations and Digital Economy, 

Executive Vice Chairman of Nigerian Communications Commission, Secretary, Universal Service Provision Fund, 

Chief Executives of Telecommunications Companies, 

State ICT Commissioners 

Representatives of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) 

Representatives of The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (UK FCDO) 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Over the last 25 years, Nigeria has made significant strides in expanding connectivity and strengthening our digital technology infrastructure. 

In recent years, broadband penetration has been growing significantly, bringing millions more Nigerians online and enabling new opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital inclusion. 

Today however, there are still millions of Nigerians on the fringes of digital transformation who are yet to have access to reliable connectivity. 

Many communities—particularly rural areas—face significant barriers, including inadequate infrastructure and limited digital literacy. These gaps not only hinder personal and business growth but also limit the full potential of Nigeria’s digital economy. 

The Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) has been a critical instrument in the Federal Governments’s mission to extend connectivity to these communities. By supporting infrastructure expansion, fostering local innovation, and driving inclusive policies, the USPF aligns with the His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR)’s goal of enabling meaningful and affordable connectivity for all Nigerians.

The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, is also actively driving transformative projects aimed at unlocking digital opportunities for millions of Nigerians. Some of our flagship initiatives to close this divide include: 

1. Project BRIDGE (90,000km Fibre Optic Expansion) which is designed to significantly improve broadband penetration across Nigeria by extending fibre optic infrastructure to all regions. 
2. Project 774: This initiative ensures that every local government secretariat in Nigeria benefits from high-speed connectivity, fostering grassroots digital transformation. 
3. The Universal Access Project: A game-changing initiative targeted at connecting over 20 million Nigerians who currently have no access to digital services. 
4. The National Broadband Alliance of Nigeria (NBAN): Our multi-stakeholder effort to drive collaboration across government and private sector to drive universal high quality broadband access 
5. The 3 Million Technical Talent programme ( 3MTT): Which is strengthening our talent pipeline to deliver a workforce to improve the digital ecosystem.

These projects are not just focussed on infrastructure; but also about enabling businesses, empowering individuals, and unlocking the full economic potential of Nigeria’s digital landscape as we work towards a 1 Trillion Dollar Economy 

However, bridging this digital divide is not a task for the government alone. 

Sustainable and impactful progress requires strong partnerships across the public and private sectors, development agencies, civil society, and local communities. 

To ensure effective collaboration, we must focus on four key pillars: 

1. Community Engagement: By understanding and addressing the unique needs of our local communities, we can encourage their participation which is crucial to ensuring that the digital infrastructure solutions provided digital are relevant, accessible, and adopted at scale. 
2. Leveraging Existing Infrastructure: We must maximize the value of the existing investment in networks, public facilities, and energy sources to optimise costs and ensure rapid deployment of connectivity solutions. 
3. Capacity Building: Access to the internet is only beneficial if people have the skills to use it productively. Therefore, ensuring that Digital literacy programs, skills training, and entrepreneurship development are integrated into our overall infrastructure and connectivity strategy.
4. Sustainable Solutions: The future of connectivity in Nigeria must be economically and environmentally sustainable therefore, we should explore innovative business models, alternative energy solutions, and localised interventions that ensure long-term sucess. 

In conclusion, we stand at a defining moment in Nigeria’s digital transformation. We have the vision, the policy framework, and the will to connect every Nigerian to the digital economy. But we need your partnership to explore alternative innovative ways to deliver on all elements of our plans. 

There is a clear role for everyone - Government at all levels, Private Sector, Development Partners and local communities in this journey. 

Together, with a clear focus on investment in last mile connectivity, capacity building and infrastructure development as well as the creation of policies that enable the rapid deployment of digital infrastructure, we can achieve universal access to communications and digital literacy for all Nigerians by 2030. 

However, despite this progress, millions of Nigerians, particularly in remote and underserved communities, remain disconnected from these digital opportunities. Today, we must address this gap collectively to ensure that no one is left behind in our journey toward a fully connected and digitally empowered Nigeria.

I look forward to working together to unlock the full potential of our nation’s most valuable resource—our people.

Thank you. 

PROTOCOL  

- The Honorable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy,  Dr. Bosun Tijani  

- The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communications, Innovations and  Digital Economy, Engr. Faruk Yusuf Yabo  

- ICT Commissioners 

- Chief Executives and their representatives 

- Management and staff of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and  the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (UK FCDO) - Secretary of the USPF 

- Notable industry players 

- Development partners 

- Speakers 

- Trade associations 

- Distinguished guests 

It is a great pleasure to welcome you all to this pivotal stakeholder engagement event,  organized under the auspices of the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) in  collaboration with the ITU and supported by the UK FCDO. This engagement, themed: ‘Strengthening Partnership for Sustainable Telecommunication  Infrastructure in the Unserved and Underserved Communities: Collaborating  for Sustainable Growth,’ reflects our collective commitment to ensuring equitable  access to telecommunications services for all Nigerians, especially those in unserved  and underserved communities. 

Today’s meeting is particularly aimed at bringing key industry stakeholders together to  provide valuable insights on strategies that can be adopted to enhance USPF  Interventions and serve as a feedback mechanism to build partnerships for Nigeria’s  digital future. It goes without saying that the USPF acknowledges the crucial role of collaboration, strategic partnerships and complementary efforts to achieve sustainable  development. 

Additionally, the evolving telecommunications landscape necessitates innovative and  collaborative approaches to ensure long-term viability in delivering connectivity to  unserved and underserved populations.  

The Role of the USPF in Expanding Access 

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), through the USPF, has been at the  forefront of initiatives aimed at providing universal access and universal service. These  efforts align with broader national and global goals, including bridging the digital divide,  promoting universal access, fostering economic growth and social inclusion, and  achieving Sustainable Development Goals “SDGs 4” (Quality Education) and 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure).  

Over time, the USPF has successfully implemented several projects under its access and  connectivity programmes. Given the focus of this event, it is important to highlight key  connectivity projects such as the deployment of Base Transceiver Stations (BTS),  Backbone Transmission and Infrastructure, amongst others. This engagement serves as  a vital platform to discuss practical strategies to enhance the impact of these projects  through strengthened partnerships. 

Without doubt, to achieve digital inclusion, government agencies, mobile network  operators, infrastructure providers, equipment manufacturers, development partners, and telecom trade groups must work closely together. It is for this reason that a multi stakeholder approach is essential to: 

1. Explore innovative financing models to attract investment in rural  telecommunications. 
2. Leverage emerging technologies and alternative power solutions for sustainable  connectivity. 
3. Promote policies that incentivize collaborative participation in connectivity  projects. 

Call to Action 

I want to use this platform today, to urge all stakeholders to take decisive steps toward  strengthening partnerships. Let us harness our collective expertise, resources, and  innovative capabilities to build a resilient and sustainable telecommunication  infrastructure that will empower millions of Nigerians. We must remember that  collaboration remains the cornerstone of sustainable development in this sector. 

Crucially, I must mention that our solutions must be tailored to address local  challenges/needs and align with current realities.  

I am confident that the deliberations from this engagement will lead to actionable  solutions that will drive progress, foster economic development, and ultimately  transform lives through connectivity in the most remote corners of our nation. 

Conclusion 

Once again, I thank you all for your dedication to this cause. Together, we can build a  future where digital connectivity is a fundamental right, not a privilege. Let us remain  steadfast in our commitment to ensuring that no community is left in the digital dark. 

Thank you, and I look forward to productive discussions ahead.

The suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan by Nigeria’s Senate, following her Sexual Harassment Allegation against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, has sparked National and Global Outrage. This Incident is not just a Political Power Play but a stark reminder of the Systematic Oppression, Silencing, and Mistreatment of Women in Politics and Society at Large. Rather than upholding Justice, the Nigerian Senate has chosen to protect its Powerful Male Members while punishing a Female Senator who dared to speak out. The consequences of this Decision stretch beyond Akpoti-Uduaghan, reinforcing the deep-seated Culture of Impunity that continues to shield Men in Power from Accountability while discouraging Women from Active Political Participation.

The Senate’s decision to suspend Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months came under the guise of “Misconduct” and a Dispute over the Chamber’s Sitting Arrangement. She was accused of refusing to sit in an Assigned Seat, allegedly violating Senate Protocols. However, her punishment went far beyond any reasonable Disciplinary Action—her Salary and Allowances were suspended, her Security Aides were withdrawn, and she was barred from Representing herself as a Senator Locally and Internationally. If she does not submit a Written Apology, these punitive Measures will remain in place for the full six-month Period, an undeniable attempt to silence and humiliate her.

More disturbingly, Akpabio was allowed to preside over a Case where he was the Accused, demonstrating a clear Conflict of Interest. No credible Legal or Institutional System permits an Individual facing serious Allegations to lead Deliberations on their own Misconduct. Yet, in the Nigerian Senate, Akpabio remained in charge and ultimately oversaw the Motion that resulted in Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Suspension. By allowing this to happen, the Senate effectively nullified any Notion of Fairness, choosing instead to protect the Powerful and silence the Accuser.

If Due Process and Fairness meant anything to the Senate, Akpabio should have stepped aside and allowed an Independent Body to investigate the Allegations against him before taking any Action on Akpoti-Uduaghan. Instead, the Matter was referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, chaired by Neda Imasuen (LP, Edo South), which dismissed Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Sexual Harassment Petition on the grounds that she personally signed it, violating Senate Rules. This Technicality was used as an excuse to avoid addressing the Core Issue—whether Akpabio abused his Power. If this is the Standard of Governance in Nigeria’s Legislative Body, it is a chilling warning to any Woman in Politics that Justice will always favor the Powerful, not the Victim.

As Public Outrage mounted, Wife of the President, Oluremi Tinubu finally broke her silence on the Matter. However, instead of acknowledging the Gross Injustice against Akpoti-Uduaghan and the deep-seated Misogyny in the Senate, she downplayed the Controversy. Speaking ahead of International Women’s Day, Tinubu defended the Senate as a “Mature Chamber” that must be treated with respect, dismissing Concerns over the way Akpoti-Uduaghan was silenced. While she urged Nigerian Women to assert themselves and not allow Men to “talk to them anyhow,” her response failed to address the broader Institutional Injustice that extends beyond Akpoti-Uduaghan and affects Women Globally.

In contrast, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, the Wife of the late Ondo State Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, displayed far more Courage and Integrity in her response to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Ordeal. She publicly condemned Akpabio’s Actions and criticised his attempt to draft his Wife into the Political Battle against Natasha, calling it “highly disingenuous.” Akeredolu’s remarks exposed a common tactic used by Powerful Men—hiding behind Women to deflect Accusations of Misconduct. Rather than taking Responsibility for the Allegations against him, Akpabio orchestrated a defense using his Wife, a move that weakens the broader Fight for Gender Equality and Justice.

Akeredolu’s bold stance deserves commendation. Unlike others who have chosen silence or neutrality, she recognised the deeper implications of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Suspension and was unafraid to speak the truth. Her willingness to call out the hypocrisy and manipulation in the Senate shows the kind of solidarity that Women in Politics desperately need. If more Female Leaders exhibited her courage in standing against oppression, Nigeria’s Political Landscape would be far more just and inclusive.

This is not just about one Senator—it is about every Woman in Nigeria and around the World who has been systematically excluded from Leadership, silenced when they demand Justice, and punished for challenging the Status Quo. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Suspension is part of a larger War against Women in Politics, where they are disproportionately scrutinised, undermined, and ultimately pushed out. Remi Tinubu’s response did not go far enough because this was not merely an Internal Senate Dispute—it was a direct Assault on the Legitimacy of Women’s Voices in Governance.

The Global implications of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Suspension cannot be ignored. Around the World, Women in Politics are subjected to Institutionalised Discrimination, Harassment, and Violence aimed at discouraging their Participation. From Theresa May in the UK, who faced Sexist Media Coverage that focused more on her Appearance than her Policies, to Kamala Harris in the United States, who endured relentless Gendered and Racial Attacks while running for President against Donald Trump, the pattern is consistent. Women in Politics are judged by different Standards, undermined in ways their Male Counterparts never are, and often pushed out of Positions of Power when they challenge the Status Quo.

Women in U.S. Congress have also spoken out about the Sexism and Discrimination they face in Leadership. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty recalled how she was mistaken for a Waitstaff Member at a High-Level Meeting, illustrating the dismissive attitude toward Women, especially Women of Colour, in Politics. Maggie Hassan shared how, when attending Events with her Husband, People would assume that he was the Governor, ignoring the reality of Female Leadership. Norma Torres recounted how often she was interrupted by Male Colleagues, highlighting the ingrained bias against Women in Political Spaces. These Experiences mirror those of Akpoti-Uduaghan, showing that the Struggle for Gender Equality in Leadership is a Global Issue, not just a Nigerian one.

Afrobeat Artist Seun Kuti recently spoke out against the Silence of Nigerian Celebrities and Feminists in supporting Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. He expressed disappointment that High-Profile Figures, who frequently advocate for Women’s Rights on less Politically Charged Issues, have failed to rally behind Akpoti-Uduaghan in the way they did for Annie Idibia during her Divorce Case with 2Face. He criticised the Hypocrisy of the Entertainment Industry and its refusal to challenge the Government, suggesting that many Celebrities stay silent because they benefit from Government Grants and Political Favoritism. Kuti’s Remarks serve as a powerful Indictment of Selective Activism, highlighting how even Feminist Movements can be co-opted or silenced when confronting Powerful Male Figures in Politics.

International Organisations, including the United Nations and the World Bank, have repeatedly emphasised that Gender Equality in Leadership leads to Stronger Economies and Better Governance. However, this means little if National Institutions continue to function in a manner that enables the suppression of Women rather than supporting them. The Nigerian Senate has an opportunity to reverse course by ensuring that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Case is reopened for a Fair and Transparent Review. Failure to do so will further confirm that Nigeria’s Democracy is not one of Justice but of Political Retaliation.

This Case is not just about one Senator—it is about every Woman who has ever been silenced, discredited, or pushed out of Politics simply for demanding Fairness and Accountability. If Justice were to mean anything, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Suspension should not stand, and the Allegations against Akpabio should be independently investigated. Without these Actions, Nigerian Women will continue to see Politics as a Rigged Game where the Powerful protect each other while the Voices of the Vulnerable are systematically erased.

By allowing Akpabio to preside over a Matter in which he is directly implicated, the Nigerian Senate has not only failed Akpoti-Uduaghan but has also failed Democracy itself. If the System allows the Accused to determine the Fate of the Accuser, then Justice is nothing but a mirage, and Democracy is reduced to a farce. A Just Society demands that those accused of Wrongdoing be subjected to the same Legal and Ethical Standards as anyone else, regardless of their Political Standing. Until Women can speak freely without Fear of Retaliation, Democracy remains unfulfilled, and the World continues to support Systems that silence and punish those who dare to confront them.

In a world where approximately 20% of new businesses fail within the first two years, 45% within five years, 65% within ten years, and only 25% make it to 15 years or more (according to the US Bureau of Statistics), any business that has crossed 15 years should be sharing insights on survival and success.

But what about businesses that have lasted twice that long? Or a financial services group that has thrived for over 130 years, especially in Africa, where business survival rates are likely lower than those statistics from the Global North? Such a group has certainly earned the right to teach masterclasses on business longevity.

First HoldCo Plc (FirstHoldCo), recently rebranded from FBN Holdings Plc, exemplifies sustainable business practices. A well-diversified group, it is one of Africa’s largest financial services organisations, offering innovative financial solutions through its subsidiaries in commercial banking, asset management, capital markets, securities, trusteeship, and insurance brokerage. FirstHoldCo ensures strategic coordination and synergy among its subsidiaries to deliver long-term value for stakeholders.

Retaining the legacy strengths and experience of FBN Holdings Plc, FirstHoldCo ensures that its subsidiaries enhance positive environmental, social, and governance (ESG) impacts while minimising or eliminating negative ones. This includes managing ESG risks in the workplace, marketplace, community, and environment, with the institutional capability to turn risks into opportunities.

For example, ESG risk management enhances credit and investment decision-making, de-risking processes for subsidiaries such as FirstBank and FBNQuest. It also strengthens social relationships with the communities in which these subsidiaries operate.

ESG and sustainability may be buzzwords for some corporations seeking to appear politically correct, but at FirstHoldCo, they are integral to its identity. The company is self-driven in aligning its strategy and operations with ESG principles and setting new sustainability benchmarks for financial services in Nigeria.

FirstHoldCo’ s flagship subsidiaries, FirstBank and FBNQuest, integrate ESG risks into their products, services, and offerings from the ideation stage through to development and launch. This approach drives responsible lending and investment practices, enabling the group to leverage ESG market opportunities while promoting sustainable socio-economic growth.

FirstHoldCo also prioritises people empowerment, fostering a work environment rooted in equal opportunities, diversity, and inclusion. A notable achievement is bridging the diversity gap, reaching a 40% female to 60% male employee ratio in 2023, one year ahead of its 2024 target.

The group also supports the communities where its subsidiaries operate, ensuring its impact resonates positively. Since 2017, it has implemented the SPARK (Start Performing Acts of Random Kindness) initiative and Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability (CR&S) Week. In 2023, these initiatives impacted 60,000 lives through outreaches to 60 orphanages, 20 schools, and hospitals across Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, The Gambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sierra Leone, and the United Kingdom. Donations included consumables, computers, clean water projects, school renovations, wheelchairs, and cash. Employees committed over 27,000 volunteer hours to these initiatives.

In 2023, FirstBank reinforced its commitment to empowering women through FirstGem, a financial product supporting women-led businesses. Over N36 billion in loans were disbursed at a single-digit interest rate of 9%. Additionally, its Agency Banking business, FirstMonie, expanded its female agent network to over 55,000.

Inclusion remains a key focus, with FirstBank enhancing accessibility for physically challenged customers in 234 locations, making 25 branches fully accessible and improving access at 209 others. It also expanded the SPARK initiative to institutions like the Bethesda School of the Blind and the Down Syndrome Foundation in Lagos.

FirstBank operates an Environmental, Social, and Governance Management System (ESGMS) to drive responsible lending and minimize ESG risks. In 2023, this system was enhanced to ensure real-time transparency in corporate credit screenings. That year, 2,239 credit transactions worth N4.236 trillion were assessed for ESG risks.

To strengthen ESG compliance, FirstBank collaborates with development partners such as British International Investment, the African Development Bank, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and Proparco, a French development finance institution. Its partnership with Proparco is crucial for integrating climate initiatives into business strategy. This project enhances its understanding of financed emissions and positions it for climate financing and investment opportunities.

This initiative will help FirstBank reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, mitigate exposure to physical and transition risks, and strengthen climate adaptation efforts. It also reinforces its market competitiveness as an ESG leader committed to a low-carbon economy.

As part of its commitment to decarbonisation, FirstHoldCo’ s FirstBank actively engages in reforestation and afforestation through partnerships focused on carbon dioxide (CO2) removal. In 2023, it pledged to plant 50,000 trees by 2025 in collaboration with the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF). That year, it planted 1,000 trees at the Lekki Conservation Centre, Lagos; Model Secondary School, Maitama, Abuja; and Federal Government Girls College, Calabar. By the following year, it had planted an additional 30,000 trees, bringing the total to 31,000.

FirstBank also drives thought leadership in climate finance, promoting knowledge on carbon mitigation and climate adaptation. A notable effort was a webinar themed ‘Harnessing Climate Finance Opportunities in Nigeria,’ held in partnership with the Sustainability Practitioners Institute of Nigeria (SPIN). The event featured prominent ESG and sustainability experts such as Professor Kenneth Amaeshi, Dr. Muntaqa Umaru-Sadiq, and Carina Dunker, underscoring FirstBank’s commitment to advancing climate finance discussions.

With so much achieved and ongoing ESG/sustainability initiatives, what is the greatest impact of ESG at FirstHoldCo?

For the group, it is the net positive effect on the communities where its subsidiaries operate. For individuals, it is the tangible benefits from its financial solutions and CSR initiatives. For businesses, it is the sustainable practices FirstHoldCo champions, setting a standard for responsible corporate leadership.

Credit First Bank PR/A.Ezekiel

Social Capital is often praised for fostering Trust, Cooperation, and Civic Engagement. In many Societies, it helps reduce Corruption by encouraging Accountability. But what happens when Corruption is deeply woven into the Culture? In Nigeria, Social Capital can do the opposite—it can protect and sustain Corruption instead of eliminating it.

Studies show that Informal Social Obligations, often seen as a form of "Social Tax," pressure Individuals to prioritise Personal Networks over merit and fairness. In Nigeria, this means People feel compelled to stay silent about Corrupt Activities to maintain Social Harmony. Instead of exposing Corruption, many Communities shield their own, making Accountability nearly impossible.

Trust plays a Crucial Role in Nigeria’s Corruption problem. In places where Institutions are weak, People rely more on Personal Networks than on Government Structures. While this might seem beneficial, it often leads to nepotism, favoritism, and patronage, where those in Power prioritise Family and Ethnic Ties over Competence and Honesty. Fear of Social Repercussions prevents Individuals from reporting Corruption, reinforcing a cycle of wrongdoing.

Collective Action, which is supposed to drive Accountability, can also work in reverse. In Nigeria, entire Communities may rally behind Corrupt Politicians, Business Elites, or Public Officials if they share Ethnic or Social Ties. This "Collective Corruption" allows Public Funds to be stolen with little consequence, as long as some benefits trickle down to the Community. Instead of demanding Transparency, many people accept Corruption as part of Daily Life.

Not all Social Capital is equal, and understanding its different forms is key to tackling Corruption. Bonding Social Capital, which creates strong Ties within Close-Knit Groups, can be beneficial but also leads to exclusivity and insider dealings. In Nigeria, this often manifests in "Man-Know-Man" Politics, where Opportunities and Privileges are distributed based on Connections rather than Merit. Bridging Social Capital, which links People across different Groups, is much more effective in fighting Corruption, but it remains weak due to deep Ethnic and class Divisions.

Corruption also erodes Trust in Institutions, creating a vicious cycle. When People see Corrupt Individuals go unpunished, they become even more dependent on Personal Networks for survival. This further weakens Institutional Trust and strengthens Corruption. Instead of being a force for good, Social Capital becomes a Tool for exclusion and exploitation.

Economic Structures also play a Role in reinforcing Corruption. Studies show that the Elites often manipulate Labour Markets and Wages to benefit their Networks. In Nigeria, those in Power use their influence to limit Opportunities for Outsiders, ensuring that Economic Benefits stay within their Social Circles. This worsens inequality and keeps Corruption deeply embedded in Society.

The biggest danger of Social Capital in Nigeria is that it legitimises Corruption. It allows Political Leaders, Business Elites, and even Everyday Citizens to justify Corrupt Practices under the guise of Loyalty and Social Ties. This makes Anti-Corruption efforts difficult, as entire Communities may resist Reforms that threaten their existing Benefits. Traditional Measures of Social Capital, such as Trust and Civic Participation, fail to capture the ways in which Social Networks protect Corrupt Systems.

But there is hope. Social Capital can be reshaped to fight Corruption instead of sustaining it. Strengthening Institutions and promoting Trust in Governance rather than Personal Connections is key. Encouraging Cross-Community Engagement can help bridge Divides and create broader Accountability. Whistleblower Protections can give Individuals the confidence to report Corruption without fear. Education Reforms can instill Civic Responsibility and Ethical Values in Young Nigerians, shifting Cultural Attitudes toward Corruption.

Social capital is a double-edged sword. In its current form, it helps Corruption thrive, but with the right Reforms, it can be transformed into a powerful Tool for Accountability. Nigeria’s fight against Corruption will depend not just on Legal Reforms but on changing how People perceive and use Social Connections. Only by redefining Social Capital can Nigeria break the Cycle of Corruption and build a more Transparent and Just Society.

The UK Government is considering a significant shift in its Immigration Policy that could force Migrants to wait 15 years before they can apply for British Citizenship. Kemi Badenoch, the Conservative Party Leader, has championed this Proposal, and it has sparked a wave of reactions, particularly from Immigrant Communities. Many see it as a blow to their Dreams of becoming British Citizens after years of hard work and contributions. The pressing question remains: is this Policy fair, or does it simply create more barriers for those already striving to become a part of British Society?

Under Badenoch’s Plan, the Process for gaining Permanent Residency would be extended from 5 to 10 years. After that, Migrants would need to wait another 5 years before applying for Citizenship. She argues that this will ensure Immigrants are truly committed to the UK and are well-integrated into Society. However, many Critics are concerned that this extended timeline is more about creating obstacles than fostering genuine Integration, especially for those who are already working hard to contribute. It’s a classic case of “frontlash” – using Policy to reshape the Conversation around Immigration, pushing for tougher restrictions, even when the real Issues aren’t being fully addressed.

What complicates the Matter further is Badenoch’s own background. As the Daughter of Immigrants, her own Success Story reflects the very Idea of Integration that many Migrants aspire to. Yet, her Policies seem to contradict this Narrative of upward mobility. Some argue that by supporting these tough Measures, Badenoch may be trying to prove her toughness, positioning herself as more willing to take a hard line than others in her Party. This is a strategy often seen in Politics, where Politicians use their Identity to redefine Debates, shifting focus from fairness to exclusion.

The Conservative Party has strategically placed Badenoch at the center of this Debate, knowing that her Personal Story could shield them from accusations of Racism. By putting someone with Immigrant Roots at the forefront of such Controversial Policies, they hope to protect themselves from backlash. However, this tactic leaves many Critics in a difficult position, as questioning the Policy often feels like attacking Badenoch personally, which only complicates the broader Conversation. This is a clear example of how Race can be used in Politics to shift the focus away from the Policy’s fairness, creating an Environment where those opposing the Policy are painted in a negative light.

Badenoch’s rhetoric around Immigration also reveals much about her views. She describes the current System as "too lenient" and "out of control," suggesting that Immigrants are getting an easy ride. Her use of terms like "Conveyor Belt to Citizenship" paints a misleading Picture of the Immigration Process. Critics argue that this rhetoric overlooks the many Challenges Immigrants face while trying to build a Life in the UK, much like past Political Movements that used similar Language to justify Punitive Measures against Marginalised Communities.

Badenoch’s claim that the current Immigration System is straining Public Services by granting Citizenship too easily only adds Fuel to the Fire. She believes Immigrants should prove they are "Net Contributors" to the Economy, which raises the question: what counts as a Net Contributor? The most troubling part of her Plan, however, is her vague call for a "Meaningful Connection" to the UK. What does that actually mean? It opens the Door for subjective interpretations of who deserves to be considered “British Enough” for Citizenship, which could lead to unfair exclusions.

This uncertainty risks creating a two-tier System where some Immigrants are seen as more worthy than others based on unclear Criteria. The very Idea of a “Meaningful Connection” could make the Process even harder for People who are already doing their best to integrate. This echoes a troubling Historical Pattern where Policies were used to exclude certain Groups based on vague, often Racially Charged Standards. Badenoch’s Plan isn’t just about tightening Immigration; it reflects a broader shift in how the UK is beginning to view itself. If passed, these changes could harm Community Relations, undermine the Economy, and damage the UK’s International Reputation as a Diverse and Welcoming Nation.

The recent Times Editorial adds another layer to the Debate, pointing out that Badenoch’s Plan may be overlooking Key Economic Realities. The demand for Foreign Workers, particularly in Sectors like Healthcare, means that simply reducing Migration isn’t a viable option unless underlying Economic Issues are addressed. The Editorial also highlighted that Migrants who are contributing to the Economy may still face Unfair Treatment under this Plan, especially if they need temporary State Support or have minor Legal Issues. This raises crucial questions about the fairness of Policies that fail to account for the complexities of Immigration and Integration.

At the heart of this Debate, the UK is being forced to confront uncomfortable questions: Who truly belongs in the UK, and what does it mean to be British? Does making Immigrants wait longer for Citizenship help them become better Citizens, or does it simply make it harder for them to feel accepted and integrated? The Goal should be to create an Immigration System that works for everyone, regardless of their background. As this Conversation continues, it’s important to remember that Real People’s Futures are at stake, and the Decisions made today will shape the Future of the UK.

The Family of Late Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Cairo Ojougboh, led by his Wife, Bose, has marked his One-Year Memorial Anniversary with Series of Charitable Initiatives aimed at honoring his Legacy of Philanthropy and Service to Society.

The Memorial Activities include donation of School Books and Bags to Pupils of Erigbe Primary School, in Agbor within the Ika South Local Government Area (LGA) of Delta State, where Ojougboh had received his early Education.

The Outreach also include extension of Financial Assistance to Patients at Central Hospital, Agbor, and the provision of Toiletries, Cash, and Food Items to Children at the Salve Regina Children’s Home, Agbor.

The Outreach was carried out under the ‘Dr. Cairo Ojougboh Foundation’, a Family-Led Initiative established to immortalise him and continue his Lifelong commitment to Education, Healthcare, and Social Welfare.

Speaking during the Event which took place recently, Bose reaffirmed the Family’s dedication to sustaining the Ideals of the Late APC Chieftain, describing him as a Man who strongly believed in Education and giving back to Society.

“We are here to celebrate the Life of my Husband, Late Cairo Ojougboh, who passed on a year ago. In his honour, we decided to give back to Society. He was a Man who valued Education and was always willing to help others. It is only fitting that we continue his Legacy through Acts of Generosity,” she stated.

The first visit was to Erigbe Primary School, where Ojougboh had received his early Education. The Foundation distributed School Bags, Writing Materials, and Food Packs to the Pupils. The Family encouraged the Pupils to take their Education seriously and strive to become Responsible Citizens.

At Central Hospital, Agbor, Bose and her Entourage moved through the Medical Wards, offering Financial Support to Patients to assist with their Treatment Costs. The Hospital Staff and Beneficiaries responded with prayers and words of gratitude for the kind gesture.

The Outreach Team also visited Salve Regina Children’s Home in Agbor where they donated Cash, Food Items, and Toiletries to the Children. The Matron of the Home expressed her deep appreciation to the Ojougboh Family, commending their commitment to sustaining the Late Politician’s Legacy of Compassion and Social Impact.

Reflecting on her Late Husband’s contributions to Society, Bose emphasised that his Legacy of Generosity and Service to Humanity would not be forgotten.

“Cairo was a Selfless Man who touched many Lives. His contributions to the Nigerian Political Landscape, his mark in Agbor Kingdom, Delta State, and the Country at Large, will always be remembered. He may be gone, but his impact will continue to be felt for Generations,” she said.

The Foundation has pledged to continue supporting Education, Healthcare, and Social Welfare Initiatives in his Memory, ensuring that his Vision for a Better Society lives on.

Credit Dr. Cairo Ojougboh Foundation excluding Headline

As Lagos gears up for the highly anticipated Access Bank Lagos City Marathon on Saturday, February 15, 2025, excitement and emotion run high. This year’s edition is much more than a race, it is a moving tribute to legacy and a celebration of resilience.

Under the evocative Theme: Miles to Memories, every stride taken by the Runners transforms physical distance into lasting recollections, blending Athletic endurance with heartfelt remembrance of a Visionary Leader. A Race that transcends the Finish Line since its Inaugural Run in 2016, the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon has evolved from a Local Initiative into a Global Phenomenon.

Originally established by Access Bank in Collaboration with the Lagos State Government to promote Healthier Lifestyles, the Event has grown into a Symbol of Unity, Progress, and Economic Vitality for both Lagos and Nigeria. Today, the Marathon not only places Lagos on the Global Sporting Map but also showcases how Major Sporting Events can drive Tourism and stimulate Business Growth.

 As a Gold Label Marathon certified by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS), it stands as a testament to the powerful synergy between Sport, Community, and Commerce. Local Businesses, from Hotels and Restaurants to Vendors and Transport Providers, thrive during the Marathon Weekend, benefiting from increased patronage as Communities come together to support and celebrate the Event. This Collective Participation reinforces the Idea that when People unite around a common purpose, the Rewards are shared by all.

Honouring a Visionary:Remembering Herbert Wigwe

This year, the Marathon carries added emotional significance. It marks the First Anniversary of the Passing of Herbert Wigwe, the Late Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings PLC, who was a Transformative Force behind the Event.

On the morning of February 10, 2024, a tragic Helicopter Crash claimed the lLives of Herbert Wigwe, his Wife, his Son, and Abimbola Ogunbanjo, the former Group Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group P. The loss sent shockwaves throughout the Nation, leaving an indelible void in the Hearts of many Nigerians.

Despite the deep sense of loss, Herbert Wigwe’s Legacy continues to inspire. In the wake of the tragedy, concerns arose that Access Bank might reconsider its sponsorship of the Marathon. Instead, in a poignant gesture of remembrance and commitment, Access Bank, together with the Lagos State Government, has reaffirmed its support for the Marathon. This enduring dedication ensures that Wigwe’s Dreams and Aspirations remain an integral part of every step taken by the Runners.

Miles to Memories: A Journey of Emotion and Endurance

The Theme Miles to Memories perfectly encapsulates the Spirit of this year’s Marathon. It suggests that every Mile covered is imbued with Personal and Collective Memories, reminders of Challenges overcome, of Unity celebrated, and of Hope nurtured for a better Future.

For many Participants, the Race is a chance to commemorate Herbert Wigwe, whose Visionary Leadership not only transformed Access Bank but also reshaped the Sporting Landscape of Lagos. His enduring commitment to Community Development, Healthy Living, and Economic Empowerment continues to serve as a Beacon for all who aspire to make a positive impact.

Each Runner’s Journey on the Race Day acts as a Bridge between Past and Future, where the Physical Act of Running becomes a metaphor for overcoming adversity and building a hopeful tomorrow. The event stands as a Tribute not only to Athletic Excellence but also to the unyielding Human Spirit that continues to rise in the face of loss.

From Humble Beginnings to Global Prominence

When Access Bank and the Lagos State Government first partnered in 2016 to host the Marathon, their goal was simple: to encourage a Healthier Lifestyle among Lagosians. Under Herbert Wigwe’s Visionary Leadership, the Event quickly grew in Stature. Today, it has attracted over 600,000 Registered Athletes from 14 Countries, establishing itself as one of Africa’s Most Prestigious Road Races. This remarkable Evolution is a testament to the Power of Visionary Leadership, Community Engagement, and a relentless pursuit of Excellence.

The Marathon’s growth from a Local Initiative to a Globally Recognised Event highlights how passion and determination can transform a Modest Idea into an Internationally Celebrated Movement. Lagos has firmly established itself as a Marathon City renowned for its Energy, Hospitality, and unwavering commitment to progress.

Herbert Wigwe’s Vision: A Marathon for Unity Progress

Herbert Wigwe’s influence on the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon remains as palpable today as ever. During the 2021 edition, he stated:

“As one of the Leading Banks in Nigeria and indeed Africa, it is imperative for us to support the Economic and Social Development of the Communities in which we operate.

“Hence, we have sponsored the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon to make Lagos more attractive to Tourists and Investors alike. We have also used this Platform to create Jobs and Opportunities for thousands in the state.”

These words, imbued with hope and ambition, continue to guide the Event. More than merely a Race, the Marathon has become a Living Legacy of Wigwe’s unwavering commitment to Community Development and the Transformative Power of Sport. His Visionary Approach has paved the way for countless Initiatives that enrich Lives, create Employment Opportunities, and foster Pride and Unity among Nigerians.

Herbert Wigwe’s Legacy is not confined to History, it lives on in the Hearts of those he touched and in the strides of every Runner who participates in the Marathon. His Vision for a Healthier, more Prosperous Lagos inspires all, ensuring that his contributions will never be forgotten. Every cheer from the Crowd, every Drop of Sweat on the Pavement, and every Moment of Reflection during the Race stands as a Tribute to a Man dedicated to Progress, Unity, and Excellence.

The Access Bank Lagos City Marathon 2025 is more than a Sporting Event—it is a Movement that transforms Challenges into Triumphs and Distances into Memories. It celebrates Life, Resilience, and the Indomitable Spirit of a Community marching forward, one determined step at a time.

Sponsors: The Pillars Behind the Marathon

Central to the success of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon are its dedicated Sponsors. Access Bank, the Major Sponsor, has remained steadfast in its commitment to Community Development, ensuring that the Marathon continues to be a Platform for positive change. In Partnership with the Lagos State Government, the Event has grown into a Major Contributor to the Local Economy and an enduring Source of Inspiration for Athletes and Citizens alike.

Their unwavering support has been crucial in maintaining the high Standards of the Marathon, including its prestigious Gold Label status from AIMS. This commitment not only honours Herbert Wigwe’s Legacy but also ensures that the Marathon continues to inspire Future Generations to embrace a Healthy, Active Lifestyle while cherishing the Memories forged along the way.

Community, Commerce, and the Spirit of Resilience

The Access Bank Lagos City Marathon is a celebration of more than Athletic Prowess, it is a testament to the Power of Community and the Resilience of Lagosians. The Event has consistently demonstrated that when Communities unite, remarkable Achievements are possible. By boosting Local Tourism and generating Business Opportunities, the Marathon has had a Transformative Impact on the City’s Economy.

During Marathon Weekend, Local Businesses such as Hotels, Restaurants, and Retail Outlets experience a surge in Activity as Visitors from around the Globe flock to Lagos. At the same time, the Event showcases the City’s vibrant Culture on an International Stage, reinforcing the Idea that Sport and Commerce can work hand in hand to drive Progress.

The Journey Ahead: Legacy, Resilience, and Unity

As Runners prepare to take to the Streets of Lagos on February 15, 2025, the Atmosphere is charged with a profound sense of purpose. The Marathon is not just a Competition; it is a Journey of Remembrance and Unity, where every stride honours the Memory of Herbert Wigwe and every Mile becomes a Cherished Memory. The Theme Miles to Memories, reminds Participants that the Race is as much about Personal Triumph as it is about Collective Resilience and Hope.

In the face of past Tragedies and Challenges, the Marathon stands as a Beacon of Hope. It is a day when the Nation comes together to celebrate Life, honour Legacy, and build a Future founded on Unity and Progress. Each Runner carries with them the Spirit of determination and the Memory of a Leader who believed in the Power of Community and the Strength of Collective Ambition.

In celebrating Miles to Memories, the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon 2025 encapsulates the Journey from Loss to Legacy, from Grief to Hope, and from Memories to Future Milestones. With the steadfast support of Sponsors like Access Bank and the Lagos State Government, this Marathon not only delivers an exhilarating Athletic Challenge but also forges enduring Memories that will inspire Generations to Come.

As the Starting Gun fires and Runners take their First Steps on the vibrant Streets of Lagos, they are not merely participating in a Race, they are becoming part of a Legacy. Every Mile traversed is a reminder of the Resilience, Unity, and Indomitable Spirit that define this great City. And in every Memory made, the Legacy of Herbert Wigwe lives on, guiding each Runner toward a brighter, more hopeful Future.

Herbert Wigwe may be gone, but his Vision continues to run through the Veins of every Lagosian and every Athlete crossing the Finish Line. In Lagos, every Mile is a Memory, and every Memory a step toward a better Tomorrow.

Credit Access Holdings PR

Eminent Nigerians and Global Leaders on Sunday evening, remembered Banking Icon, Herbert Wigwe in an Evening of Tributes and Celebration of his Life and Legacy. It was the First Anniversary of his passing in a Helicopter Accident in Southern California on February 9, 2024. He died along with his Wife, Doreen, Son Chizi and Friend, Abimbola Ogunbanjo.

The four-hour Memorial Service, held at the Ballroom of the Eko Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, also featured Prayers, Musical Performances and Ministration by Lagos Pastor, Itua Ighodalo. There was also a Keynote Lecture by the Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, in a Tribute, described Wigwe as a Quintessential Banker and Business Leader who made immense contributions to the Growth of Nigeria’s Banking Industry. Recalling his numerous Engagements, Travels and Works with Wigwe, Obasanjo noted that the Late Banker had taken Access Bank as a Small Lender in 2002 to a Global Business Empire. Obasanjo’s Tributes were read by Bolaji Agbede, the Acting Group Chief Executive of Access Holdings, the Parent Company of the Bank and other Subsidiaries.

President Bola Tinubu said Wigwe’s pioneering Legacy in Business and Finance is a testament to the uncanny ability of Nigerians to overcome obstacles and excel in their Chosen Fields. The President, who was represented by Finance Minister, Olawale Edun, commended Wigwe for founding a University which is poised to make enormous contributions to Higher Education in Africa.

President Emmanuel Macron of France described the Late Wigwe as a Master of the Art of Business Diplomacy – a relatively new Field that seeks to adapt the Skills and Mindset of the Government Diplomat to the Needs of the Firm he leads. Macron noted that as President of French-Nigeria Business Council (FNBC), Wigwe had used the Platform to promote Bilateral Relations between the two Countries. President Macrons’s Statement was read by a Senior Diplomat at the French Embassy in Abuja.

In a Keynote Lecture delivered extempore, Prime Minister Mottley of Barbados regretted the loss of important Correspondent Banking Relationships (CBRs) during the 2009 Financial Crisis by Banks across the Caribbean and noted that her Country has risen to the Challenge. A Correspondent Banking Relationship (CBR) is a Bilateral Arrangement between Banks, often involving a Reciprocal Cross-Border Relationship in Multiple Countries. The Arrangement involves one Bank (the Correspondent – for example a major International Bank) providing a Deposit Account or other Liability Accounts, and Related Services, to another Bank (the Respondent – for example a Bank located and doing Business in the Caribbean, or Nigeria or any other Country). The Prime Minister announced that Access Bank would soon commence Banking Business in Barbados once the necessary Regulatory Approvals have been concluded.

The Prime Minister recalled her fond Memories of Herbert Wigwe as a Consummate International Business Icon and recollected that King Jaja of Opobo was exiled to her Country by the British Colonialists in the 17th Century for refusing to implement a nefarious British Tax Policy and obstructing the Colonialists’ Commercial and Political Expansion. Mottley was particularly excited that Opobo is a Community in the present day Rivers State, Wigwe’s Home State; and she tagged on that to create a pun. ‘’Tochi’’, she called out to Wige’s Daughter, now the Eldest Child, who was also seated in the Front Row with the rest of the Family, ‘’you will soon come to Barbados; but not as an exile’’. The Audience laughed.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwon-Olu gave an impassioned and heartfelt Tribute, describing Wigwe as ‘’Larger Than Life Person, who was a Builder of People, Ideas and fortune.’’ Sanwon-Olu described Wigwe as brave and courageous. His words: ‘’Where others hesitated, Herbert moved. Lagos has felt his absence. Across the State, his Legacies abound.’’ He mentioned a few of such Legacies as the renovated National Arts Theatre; Access Bank Lagos Marathon and the triumph over Covid-19.

One of the High Points of the Evening was Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede’s emotional Tributes in which he said that his Partnership and Friendship with Wigwe endured for so long due to the trust they had in each other. ‘’I was never, for once, afraid that Herbert was in the Room, closing Deals, when I was not there; and vice versa’’, he said, eliciting a prolonged applause. He announced that despite malicious Publications in the Social Media, he would never abandon Herbert Wigwe’s Children. ‘’Tochi; Hannah; David; Okachi, you are mine; just as my Children were your Dad’s Children when he was here with us’’, Aig-Imoukhuede said, to the applause of the Audience, some of whom were already tearing up. ‘’They’re irreplaceable’’, he said, referring to the Departed. ‘’Herbert is irreplaceable as a Friend; he is irreplaceable as a Partner’’.

Two of Chizi’s Friends, Rasheed Sarumi and Tunde Ogundare, also gave emotional Tributes to him; while Linda Petinrin and Queenette Allagoa remembered the Late Chizoba Wigwe in emotional Tributes.

Idaere Gogo-Ogan (Herbert’s longstanding Friend); Roosevelt Ogbonna (CEO of Access Bank Plc); Uche Wigwe (Herbert’s Cousin and Trustee of Wigwe University) and David Wigwe (Herbert’s son) also gave stirring Homage in what was clearly an Evening of Mixed Emotions and Celebrations of Beautiful Lives lost.

Other Dignitaries at the Event were Chairman of THISDAY Arise Media Group, Nduka Obaigbena; Paul Usoro, Chairman of Access Bank Plc; Emir Kano, Mohammed Sanusi II; Benedict Oramah, President of Afrexim Bank; Former CEO of GTBank, Fola Adeola; Ben Akabueze, former DG of Budget Office of the Federation; Executives and Staff of Access Bank Group. In a Dinner after the Memorial Service, Ogbaigbena formally presented THISDAY Lifetime Achievement Award for Herbert Wigwe to Tochi Wigwe.

"Mummy, I couldn't finish my Homework because there was no light," Amina tells her Mother, frustrated. Meanwhile, across town, Zainab posts her tenth TikTok of the day. These two Students live just kilometers apart in the same City, but their Worlds couldn't be more different. Welcome to Nigeria, where Energy Poverty splits Lives as sharply as a lightning.

Energy Poverty isn’t just a Government Issue—it’s a Daily struggle for millions. The Country’s Electricity System shares Neighborhoods into "Bands," with Band A Areas paying high Rates for better Service. Bands B to E pay less but often receive little to no Power. This System sounds fair on paper but leaves many Communities in constant darkness.

The Band System has created unfair Access to Electricity, leaving Poorer Areas struggling. This deepens Inequality, making it harder for Low-Income Families to improve their Lives. What should be a Shared Resource has become a privilege for the few.

Ibrahim lives in Band D Area, where his Children study under a weak Battery Lamp. Meanwhile, his Neighbor’s Generator hums loudly, keeping their Home brightly lit. His Electricity Bill promises 12 hours of Power Daily, but the Reality is far worse. Even though he pays lower Rates, he still pays for Power he doesn’t receive.

This Issue affects more than just Households—it impacts Everyday Life. People in Band A enjoy stable Electricity, while others face Blackouts that last days. Some Students attend Online Classes smoothly, while others miss Lessons due to Power Cuts. Where you live determines your Power Band, and your Power Band often shapes your Opportunities.

The effects of this imbalance are serious. Businesses in Low-Power Areas struggle, leading to Job Losses and a Weak Economy. Schools can’t provide a good Learning Environment without Steady Electricity. Hospitals also suffer, sometimes performing Life-Saving Operations under Torchlight.

The impact on Healthcare is especially worrying. Public Hospitals in Lower Band Areas lack Steady Electricity, putting Lives at risk. Meanwhile, Private Hospitals in Band A Areas hardly experience Power Failure. In Nigeria, your surviving an Emergency depends largely on your Neighborhood’s Power Supply.

The Economic Loss from this Power Crisis is shocking. Nigeria loses about ₦181.2bn ($116.9 million) everyday due to Poor Electricity, totaling nearly ₦66.2trn ($42.7bn) Annually. This Loss comes from Businesses shutting down, People spending billions on Electricity Generator Fuel, and Industries struggling to function. Instead of creating Jobs and improving the Country, Nigerians are forced to spend their Money just to keep the Lights on.

Government Officials often promise new Power Projects and Solutions. They praise the Band System as fair, but the Reality is different. Funds meant to improve Power Services disappear without trace. Meanwhile, Generators continue running in Band A Areas while the rest of the Country remains in darkness.

Investors who want to solve Nigeria’s Energy Crisis face endless roadblocks. The Band System is used as an excuse for slow Progress. Those in Power benefit from keeping millions in darkness. It’s a System that rewards Corruption while punishing Ordinary People.
But Nigerians are no longer accepting this unfair System. Communities are working together to create their own Power Solutions. Young

Entrepreneurs are developing Solar Energy Systems that work no matter which Band you are in. Social Media is exposing how the Band System keeps People trapped in Poverty.
The Solution is clear, but action is lacking. First, the Government must fix the Band System to ensure fair Electricity Distribution. Second, Power Infrastructure must be improved to serve all Communities, not just the Wealthy. Third, there must be accountability to ensure People receive the Power they pay for.

Nigeria has enough Resources to provide Electricity for every Home, School, and Hospital 24/7. Corruption and Poor Management keep the Country from achieving this. Until Honest Leadership takes charge, millions will remain in Energy Poverty. Yet, they will still be forced to pay for a Service they barely receive.

Nigeria’s future is too bright to stay in darkness. Every Child deserves to study without worrying about Power Cuts. Every Business should grow without spending fortunes on Generators. Every Family should get the Electricity they pay for.

The path to ending Energy Poverty is clear, but it requires real change. The Government must stop favoring certain Areas while ignoring others. Building Electricity Infrastructure in Underserved Areas must be a top priority. Nigeria needs Leaders who care about People, not just Profits, and a System that delivers Power as reliably as it collects Payments.

Additional Contribution by Titus Olowokere, CEO of the U.S.-Africa Trade Commission, President Emeritus of ANOG, and Director of Administration for NICORE, supporting the Economic Development of Nigerians in the U.S.

While President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria was away in far away Dar es Salaam, Capital of Tanzania, his Political Opponents, Detractors, Opposition Elements, Psuedo Friends unfolded their Machiavellian Inclinations.

Indeed, while the President was seeking Solutions to Nigeria's Energy Problems in Dar es Salaam, some “wannabes “were heating up the Polity. Expectedly, it was a Gathering convened to further spread ill-will.

Nothing new came out of the Gathering different from the Opposition Script we are used to. A few of the Participants went overboard in their vitriol, fanning the embers for adopting Undemocratic Actions.

These Political Gladiators have antecedents that are well known. We urge Nigerians to begin their scrutiny early. And choose between Political Hecklers and Real Progressives. The Clouds are beginning to clear. The Stage sets soon. The combat begins.

Until then, President Tinubu, an Avowed Democrat, remains undistracted and unperturbed. The fight is ahead. Not now. The only Conversation he wants to have now is how to improve the Lives of Nigerian Citizens and Constructive Discourse on building a Resilient Economy.

This is 2025. Not 2027. Let those who want to test their popularity with Nigerians wait for the next Election. President Tinubu is fully focused on providing the Leadership that will transform our Country.

Sunday Dare is Special Adviser, Media & Public Communication/Spokesperson to President Bola Tinubu

In the Heart of Nigeria's Digital Economy, a Story of Patriotism and Resilience unfolds. The Telecommunications Sector, a driving force behind the Country's Growth, has been facing unprecedented challenges. Despite its significant Contributions to Nigeria's Social and Economic Development, the Sector has been struggling to keep up with the Rising Costs of Operations.

For nearly a Decade, Telecom Tariffs in Nigeria remained unchanged, while the demand for Data and Voice Services skyrocketed. The Cost of Operations, however, surged due to rising Energy Costs, Inflation, Currency Devaluation, and Increased Costs of importing Telecom Equipment. These mounting expenses threatened the very Foundation of the Sector, making it difficult for Operators to maintain Infrastructure and deliver High-Quality Services.

In the face of these Challenges, Telecom Operators requested Tariff Adjustments to reflect the current Cost of delivering Services. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) carefully considered these Proposals, balancing the Needs of Operators with the interests of Consumers. Instead of approving the suggested 100% Rate Increase, the NCC authorised a Maximum Adjustment of up to 50% within the Current Tariff Bands.

The NCC plays a Vital Role in regulating the Telecommunications Industry in Nigeria, and its actions are guided by the Nigerian Communications Act of 2003. This Act empowers the body to regulate and approve Tariff Rates and Charges by Telecom Operators, ensuring a balance between Consumer Protection and Industry Sustainability.

The NCC's Decision to approve Tariff Adjustments was not taken lightly. It was based on Extensive Consultations with Stakeholders from both the Public and Private Sectors. The goal was to strike a balance between the Financial Realities of Telecom Operators and the Economic Pressures faced by Nigerian Households and Businesses. The Approved Tariff Adjustments were capped at 50%, significantly lower than the 100% Increase requested by Operators. This Decision showcases the NCC's commitment to creating a Telecommunications Environment that works for everyone.

To further protect Consumers, the NCC mandated Telecom Operators to implement the Approved Adjustments transparently and fairly. Meanwhile, Operators were also required to educate and inform the Public about the new Rates, ensuring Customers are fully aware of any changes to their Billing Structures. Additionally, the NCC's Updated Quality of Service Regulations empower it to sanction Operators who fail to meet their Service Obligations.

Nigerians need to understand that the recent Tariff Adjustments in the Telecommunications Sector are a necessary step towards ensuring the Long-Term Sustainability of the Industry. These Adjustments will enable Operators to invest in Infrastructure Upgrades and Innovation, ultimately providing Opportunities for Local Businesses to thrive.

A robust Telecommunications Sector is crucial for achieving Nigeria's Digital Economy Goals, including e-Commerce Growth, Broadband Penetration, and Digital Inclusion. The Tariff Adjustments will strengthen Operators' Contributions to these Objectives by providing Connectivity to Underserved and Rural Areas, driving Innovation, creating Jobs, and boosting Economic Productivity.

Since 2013, Telecom Operators have grappled with Escalating Costs without Corresponding Adjustments to the Tariff Rates they offered. Without Tariff Adjustments, Operators risk being unable to sustain their Operations, leading to Service Degradation and potential Job Losses within the Industry. This would increase the Rate of Unemployment in the Country, contributing to the Hardship the Government has been fighting hard to eradicate.

The Telecommunications Sector is Capital-Intensive, requiring continuous Investment in Infrastructure to meet growing Demand and improve Service Quality. The Approved Tariff Adjustments will provide Operators with the Financial Resources needed to invest in Network Expansion, upgrade Existing Infrastructure, and enhance Customer Service. This will ultimately benefit Consumers by delivering better Connectivity, reduced Downtime, and Wider Network Coverage.

It's worth noting that the Nigerian Communications Commission's (NCC) Approval of Tariff Adjustments aligns with International Best Practices, ensuring Nigeria stays Competitive in the Global Telecommunications Landscape. By maintaining Tariffs within the Bands outlined in the 2013 NCC Cost Study, the Commission has ensured that the Adjustments are both fair and Evidence-Based.

Furthermore, the NCC’s modest Tariff Adjustment was influenced by the Financial Strains that many Businesses and Households are experiencing. In the context of the broader Economy, the Long-Term benefits of the slight Increase in Consumer Bills far outweigh the immediate Costs. Benefits such as Expanded Coverage, Improved Network Quality, and Enhanced Customer Service will provide greater Value to Consumers, further ensuring they receive a greater Telecommunications Experience.

In other to mitigate the impact on Vulnerable Consumers, the NCC has mandated that Operators simplify their Tariff Structures, and offer Affordable Plans that will be suitable to different Income Levels. Additionally, the Commission will continue to monitor the Implementation of the Adjustments to ensure compliance with its Guidelines and protect Consumers from Exploitation. This Action validates the Commission's Goal of ensuring that Nigeria remains at the forefront of Digital Innovation and Connectivity in Africa.

As a Regulator, it is obvious that the NCC is not only protecting Consumers, but also supporting Operators, Indigenous Vendors, and Suppliers who form the Pillar of the Telecom Industry. It is worthy of note to state that the Adjustments have no relation to the ongoing Tax Reform Conversation. This Holistic Approach ensures that the Benefits of a thriving Telecommunications Sector are felt across all Segments of Society.

The Tariff Adjustments approved by the NCC are a necessary step toward addressing the Financial and Operational Challenges faced by Telecom Operators. Far from being complicit in any alleged exploitation, the NCC has demonstrated commendable patriotism and a deep commitment to balancing Consumer Protection with Industry Sustainability. The NCC’s Actions in approving the Tariff Adjustments reflect Patriotism and National Progress at its finest.

By enabling Operators to invest in Infrastructure, improve Service Quality, and support Indigenous Businesses, the NCC is laying the Foundation for a more robust and Inclusive Telecommunications Sector that can measure up with its International Counterparts all across the Globe. The Adjustments are not merely a response to current Market Conditions but a Forward-Looking Strategy that will ensure Nigeria’s Telecommunications Industry remains a vital Driver of Economic Growth and Digital Transformation.

As Nigerians, it is very important to view these Adjustments as a patriotic move by the NCC to secure the Future of Connectivity and Development in the Country. The Commission’s Action embodies Transparency and Accountability, and it serves as a reminder that Effective Regulation is not about appeasing one Stakeholder Group over another, but about creating an Environment that works for everyone. Through its efforts, the NCC is proving that a Stronger, more Sustainable Telecommunications Sector is not just a possibility but a reality within reach in no time.

Golf, a Game that has captivated millions Worldwide, is struggling to maintain its footing in Nigeria. Once a symbol of Prestige and a Hub for fostering Camaraderie, Business Networks, and Strategic Thinking, Golf in Nigeria is on a troubling decline. As we watch the erosion of this Sport's Legacy, it becomes increasingly clear that the Federal Government must intervene to reinvigorate Golf and ensure its Long-Term Sustainability. Golf Courses across Nigeria, many of which were once thriving Centers of Excellence, are now shadows of their former selves.

Facilities are in disrepair, Memberships are dwindling, and Young Nigerians are largely uninterested in the Game. This lack of interest is partly due to the misconception that Golf is an Elitist Sport, coupled with the absence of Grassroots Initiatives to make it accessible to a broader Audience. Additionally, the Sport suffers from limited Sponsorship and inadequate Media Coverage. Unlike Football and Basketball, which enjoy robust support from Corporate Sponsors and Fans, Golf often takes a backseat in the National Consciousness.

Golf is more than just a Game. It’s a Platform for Personal and Professional Growth. On the Course, Individuals learn Discipline, Patience, and Strategic Thinking—Skills transferable to various Aspects of Life and Career. Globally, Golf is a Multibillion-Dollar Industry, providing Jobs and driving Tourism. Nigeria’s failure to tap into this potential is a Missed Opportunity.

Moreover, Golf can serve as a Tool for fostering International Relationships. Many Global Leaders and Business Executives play Golf, and the Sport often acts as a Conduit for High-Level Discussions and Partnerships. By revitalising Golf, Nigeria can strengthen its position on the Global Stage, both Economically and Diplomatically. Macroeconomic Conditions significantly impact the demand for Golf.

Research on 15 European Countries between 2000 and 2014 shows that Economic Circumstances, measured through GDP and Stock Market Indices, influence the number of Registered Golfers. Particularly after Financial Crises, Countries with higher GDP per Capita saw their Golf demand less affected compared to those with Weaker Economies. Similarly, the number of Golf Courses alone does not strongly correlate with Player Demand unless Economic Factors and Business Cycles are considered. Data from the U.S. further underscores Golf's Economic Value.

The American Golf Industry generated $101.7bn in Economic Activity in 2022, supporting over 1.65 million Jobs and raising $4.6bn for Charitable Causes. Golf's ability to stimulate other Industries, such as Tourism, Real Estate, and Retail, highlights its potential to contribute significantly to Nigeria's Economic Landscape if adequately invested in. For Nigeria, this means that efforts to grow Golf demand broader Economic Development. With the Economy struggling, the Government must prioritise Strategies that improve GDP and create an Enabling Environment for Recreational Activities like Golf.

Earlier this year, I had the privilege of playing a 9-Hole Round with one of Nigeria’s Prominent Professional Golfers, Lateef Lasisi. As we navigated the Lush Greens of the Abeokuta Golf Club, we spoke at length about the Challenges and Opportunities within Nigerian Golf. Lasisi, a Figure who has represented Nigeria on International Stages, shared his concerns about the lack of Infrastructure and the dwindling interest in the Sport among Young Nigerians. His insights were both enlightening and inspiring, reinforcing my belief that Golf in Nigeria is worth saving.

My own Journey in Golf further illustrates its Transformative Potential. Over 2.5 years, I was able to lower my Handicap Index from 34 to 7.7 through consistent Practice and Access to the Game. This Personal Growth underscores the Accessibility and Benefits of Golf when Barriers are removed. Golf does not have to be a Rich Man’s Sport; it can be made Affordable and Inclusive with the right Policies and Programmes in place. I also had the opportunity to play at Miccom Golf Resorts in Ada, Osun State, and spoke with their Professionals about the Poor State of the Golf Course.

They explained that the dilapidated condition was due to the lack of Government's interest and Common People's participation in the Game. Without the dedication of Individuals like Tunde Badmus, his Philanthropic Son, Olalekan, and the steadfast commitment of the Course's Owner, the Facility would have already gone extinct. Their passion and commitment have kept the Course alive despite immense Challenges. However, their efforts alone cannot secure the Future of Golf in Nigeria without broader support. The Federal Government has a pivotal Role to play in reviving Golf.

Infrastructure Development is necessary to revitalise existing Golf Courses and build new ones in Strategic Locations, especially in Underserved Areas. The European Tour Golf for Good Initiative demonstrates how Golf can prevent over 49,000 Cases of Physical and Mental Health Conditions Annually, reducing burdens on Public Health Systems. Partnering with Schools and Community Organisations to introduce Golf to Young Nigerians can also help. Programmes  that provide free or Subsidised Equipment and Coaching can demystify the Sport.

Moreover, the Government should provide Tax Breaks and other Incentives to Companies willing to sponsor Golf Tournaments and invest in Golf-Related Infrastructure. The United States Golf Association’s Investment in Sustainable Practices like Water and Pesticide Management has saved $1.03bn Annually for the U.S. Golf Industry. These Practices, if implemented in Nigeria, could make Golf more Environmentally Sustainable while enhancing its Economic Viability. The Sport can boost Tourism by attracting International Tournaments and Visitors.

Furthermore, fostering a Culture of Golf can enhance Nigeria’s Global Image, presenting the Country as a Destination for Leisure and Luxury. Golf Courses also offer Environmental Benefits. In the U.S., Courses have reduced Water Usage by 29% since 2005 and provide Green Spaces that improve Air Quality and Support Biodiversity. These Lessons can be adapted to Nigeria’s context to promote Sustainable Practices within the Industry.

The demise of Golf in Nigeria is a call to Action. With Strategic Investment and a commitment to change, the Federal Government can revive this beautiful Sport and unlock its potential for National Development. My Conversation with Lasisi underscored the urgency of this Mission. Golf is not just a Game; it’s a pathway to Opportunities, Relationships, and Growth. My Personal Journey from a High Handicap to Near-Professional Levels of Play proves that Golf can be for everyone.

Experiences at places like Miccom Golf Resorts highlight the resilience of Individuals fighting to keep the Game alive. Nigeria’s Future in Golf is worth fighting for.

The power of words cannot be overemphasised, especially when a single word is misused in a critical context, particularly by the Leader of a Nation. Imagine someone who had spent Decades criticising others for mismanagement and promising to rectify those misdeeds when given the Mantle of Leadership. However, upon assuming Office, a single Statement derailed his Administration and created widespread Economic Turmoil. This was the case when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared, on his very first day in Office, "Subsidy is Gone" on May 29, 2023.

This seemingly simple Phrase became the catalyst for significant Economic Challenges in Nigeria, highlighting the far-reaching consequences of misusing a Macroeconomic Concept. President Tinubu’s background as an Accountant heavily influenced this Decision. Accountants are trained to identify Financial Inefficiencies and block Revenue Leakages, and the removal of Fuel Subsidies was seen as a measure to curb Wastage and Corruption in the Petroleum Sector. However, while the intent behind the Policy might have been justified, its implementation left much to be desired.

To address Corruption and Inefficiencies in the Petroleum Sector, the Government adopted a blanket increase in the Pump Price of Petroleum. This Decision inadvertently triggered widespread panic and Economic Hardship for Nigerians. As the Yoruba Proverb wisely states, “Ori bibe ko ni oogun ori fifo” (cutting off the Head is not a cure for Headaches). The reaction to the Announcement showcased the far-reaching Economic Consequences of oversimplified Policies.

Immediately after the Declaration of "Subsidy is Gone," Petrol Station Owners fearing higher Costs, either hoarded Fuel or increased Prices. A Petrol Dealer with 10 Liters of Petrol purchased at ₦200 per Liter would expect to sell it for ₦2,000 to replenish their stock. However, with the anticipated price hike, ₦2,000 could no longer buy the same quantity, leading Dealers to inflate Prices or halt Sales altogether. While some Nigerians understood this Business Logic, many vilified the Dealers, accusing them of exploitation.

Within 24 hours, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) rolled out new Prices that nearly tripled the Cost of Petrol, confirming the fears of many Dealers. This sharp increase had a ripple effect, leading to skyrocketing Costs of Goods and Services across the Economy. Unfortunately, the broader Economic Implications seemed to have been underestimated by the Administration. Panic Buying and a sudden spike in Living Costs further worsened Public Perception of the Policy.

President Tinubu’s Decision to appoint a Tax Expert, Taiwo Oyedele, to head the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms in August 2023 reflected his Accountant’s Perspective—prioritising Revenue Generation. While this choice may seem logical on the surface, it was a misstep given Nigeria’s Socio-Economic context at the time. The Nation needed a Development Economist or Welfare Economist to prioritise Policies aimed at alleviating Poverty and improving Citizens’ Welfare. This misalignment between Policy Focus and the immediate Needs of the Population exacerbated Public Dissatisfaction.

The Protests that erupted against worsening Poverty and the ongoing Tax Reform Bill underscored the Public's frustration. Tax Collectors, by their nature, prioritise Revenue Collection over the Welfare of Taxpayers, which was the last thing Nigeria needed at that moment. The failure to deliver on Critical Promises further eroded Public Trust in the Administration. For example, Youth Corps Members were promised a Monthly Allowance increase to ₦70,000 starting in July 2024, but by January 2025, this Promise remained unfulfilled.

Similarly, Pensioners, already grappling with rising Living Costs, received a meager ₦10,000 increase in their Monthly Allowances in States like Kwara, Home to the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum. These half-hearted Measures only deepened disillusionment among both the Youth and Senior Citizens. Civil Servants also found themselves struggling, as the Minimum Wage increase to ₦70,000 failed to compensate for the Welfare losses caused by SiG. The situation was further exacerbated by unfulfilled Promises regarding the functionality of National Refineries by December 2023.

While two Refineries reportedly began Operations in 2024, this development did not lead to a reduction in Petrol Prices, leaving many Nigerians skeptical. The Government's inability to address the root causes of the Subsidy Issue and implement Measures to alleviate the broader Economic impact revealed a lack of foresight. A more nuanced Approach could have included Targeted Interventions to address Inefficiencies in the Petroleum Sector. Instead, the blanket Removal of Subsidies triggered widespread Hardship and dented Public Confidence in the Administration.

Rather than blanket Subsidy removal, the government could have adopted targeted strategies such as tackling corruption and smuggling within the petroleum sector. Strengthening regulatory mechanisms to prevent fuel smuggling and punishing offenders would have been a more effective approach. Additionally, investing in local refineries to reduce dependency on imported fuel could have stabilized domestic prices. A Phased Removal of Subsidies, coupled with Measures to cushion the impact on Vulnerable Populations, would have mitigated the adverse effects.

The Misuse of a Macroeconomic Concept, as demonstrated by the SiG Policy, has far-reaching Consequences for a Nation’s Economy and its People. While the intent behind the Policy may have been noble, its implementation lacked the necessary depth and sensitivity to address the broader Socio-Economic Implications. To achieve Sustainable Development, Nigeria’s Leaders must prioritise Welfare-Focused Policies and appoint Experts with a nuanced understanding of Development Economics. Only then can the Nation navigate its challenges effectively and build a Prosperous Future for all.

In recent weeks, I have been struck by the profound loss of two remarkable individuals. First, the passing of Justice Emmanuel Olayinka Ayoola, a retired Supreme Court Judge with whom I shared a deep, daily connection. And now, the heartbreaking departure of my closest elder sister, Christie Oluwakaikunmi Adebamiwa.

Writing this tribute to my cherished "egbon," whom I affectionately called my "mama kekere" – my little mum – has been one of the most challenging tasks for my spirit. Mrs. Christie Oluwakaikunmi Adebamiwa (née Olamiti) was far more than a sister; she was a cornerstone of love and sacrifice in my life.

From my earliest memories, she cared for me with the unwavering devotion of a mother. Ten years my senior, she took joy in carrying me on her back each day. One of the most poignant stories of her love came during my battle with the highly contagious and deadly smallpox. My mother recounted how my sister, undeterred by the grave risks, never left my side. She bathed me, fed me, and comforted me to sleep every single day until I recovered. That fierce and unyielding love only deepened as I grew older.

Growing up, our father was a catechist earning a modest salary of just two shillings a month – barely enough to sustain our family of eight. Yet, my sister led the way, demonstrating remarkable resilience and ingenuity. She would rise early to hawk pap in the mornings and, after school, sell soda soap. When she earned a scholarship for secondary and university education, becoming the second female graduate in Idanre land, it was a blessing not only for her but for our entire family.

She used her education to ensure her siblings also received quality education, opening doors we never thought possible. When I began my journalism career in Ibadan, she and her Reverend husband welcomed me into their home at St. Anne's Vicarage, where I stayed for three years. During this time, she even borrowed money to cover my tuition fees at the Nigerian Institute of Journalism in Lagos, supporting me with unwavering love until I could stand on my own.

Though she lived to the age of 83, her passing feels as though a part of me has gone with her. My sister was a virtuous woman – deeply religious and a true philanthropist. Even in her final days, while in a semi-comatose state, she sang in Yoruba: "E so f'araye, Jesu nbo," meaning, "Go tell the world, Jesus is coming." These words remained on her lips until her last breath.

A remarkable testimony occurred during her hospital stay. After weeks in a coma, as she began to gasp for breath, we prepared for the worst. Yet, to our astonishment, her breathing stabilized, and she started taking in food and fluids while still in a comatose state. The doctor decided to discharge her, bringing her back home. It was during this time that she began to sing involuntarily about the second coming of Jesus Christ. Her coming around was to deliver God's message.  She Indeed,  saw Jesus before she peacefully passed on two months after.

I have no doubt she is now resting in the embrace of the Lord. I will forever miss her infectious smile, a true reflection of her pure and kind heart. Goodnight, my dearest little mum. Until we meet again, may we part no more.

President Donald Trump's sweeping Executive Order, titled "Securing Our Borders," outlines Key Measures such as constructing additional Border Barriers to enhance Physical Security, deploying Military Resources to support Enforcement Efforts, and expediting Deportation Processes for Undocumented Migrants.

The Order also introduces significant Reforms to Asylum Procedures to deter New Arrivals, emphasising the Administration's View of an "unprecedented large-scale invasion." These Measures aim to strengthen National Security, address Unauthorised Immigration, and streamline existing Policies. By focusing on these priorities, the Administration seeks to realign Immigration Frameworks with its overarching "America First" Strategy.

Among the most controversial Components is the Order seeking to overturn Birthright Citizenship, a Constitutional Guarantee under the 14th Amendment. The State of Colorado, along with several other States, has moved to challenge this Directive, emphasising its potential violation of Constitutional Law. Legal Experts argue that rescinding Birthright Citizenship would require a Constitutional Amendment, not an Executive Order, adding to the Legal Complexity. This development highlights the ongoing battle between Federal Directives and State-Level pushback, with Colorado positioning itself as a Prominent Opponent of the Administration’s Policy.

However, these Ambitious and Controversial Measures have sparked significant Legal and Political Debates. Legal Experts, including Prominent Scholars from Northwestern and Harvard Law Schools, emphasise that the Executive Order raises significant Constitutional Questions, particularly around potential violations of Due Process Rights.

These Scholars cite past Legal Precedents that stress the importance of safeguarding Individual Rights even in Matters of National Security. For instance, they highlight Cases where similar Measures were struck down for overreaching Executive Authority or lacking Legislative backing, underscoring profound Legal and Ethical Dilemmas.

Critics also warn that the Executive Order could overstep Federal Authority, prompting Lawsuits that may stall its Implementation. Such Lawsuits could center on Constitutional Challenges, including the Limits of Executive Power and the potential Infringement of Civil Liberties. Policymakers remain divided over how to balance National Security Concerns with Humanitarian Obligations, intensifying the broader and ongoing Debate over comprehensive Immigration Reform.

Adding to the Administration’s controversial moves, President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order suspending all Foreign Aid Programmes for 90 days, according to the Associated Press. Rooted in the Administration’s "America First" Philosophy, the Order aims to ensure Aid aligns with U.S. Political and Strategic Goals.

This suspension initiates a Comprehensive Review to determine which Programmes align directly with American Interests and Strategic Objectives. However, concerns persist regarding the impact on Already-Approved Congressional Funding and potential strains on Diplomatic Relationships.

While the exact Scope of Aid affected remains unclear due to Pre-Allocated Funds, the Executive Order underscores the Administration’s prioritisation of Domestic Interests. Trump emphasised this by stating, "The Foreign Aid Industry and Bureaucracy are not aligned with American Interests and, in many cases, are contrary to American Values."

This move reflects the Administration’s broader "America First" Philosophy, aiming to ensure Foreign Aid Programmes align closely with U.S. Strategic and Political Goals. Critics argue that this suspension could strain International Relationships and impact Global Stability, underscoring the contentious nature of such sweeping Policy Shifts.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed this sentiment during his recent Senate Confirmation Hearing, emphasising that every Dollar spent, and every Policy pursued must pass a straightforward Litmus Test: "Does it make America safer? Does it make America stronger? Does it make America more prosperous?" Despite these assertions, the Order’s impact on U.S. Diplomatic Relations and Global Partnerships remains uncertain, raising questions about its Long-Term Consequences.

The Order’s emphasis on Border Security and addressing what it calls an "unprecedented large-scale invasion" will also face intense Judicial Scrutiny. Prolonged Legal Battles could drain Resources, attention, and energy, distracting the Administration from other important goals. Potential Disputes over Constitutional Authority and Due Process Rights could delay Implementation and disrupt broader Governance Objectives. This creates a risk of the Administration being bogged down by Courtroom Conflicts instead of advancing its broader Agenda.

Scholars often use a Framework involving Societal Structures, Political Institutions, and Policy Impacts to evaluate such Measures, offering insights into their broader implications. Societal Structures encompass Norms, Cultural Values, and Demographic Trends that influence Public and Political support for Policies. Political Institutions focus on the Mechanisms of Governance, Enforcement, and Legal Frameworks that shape Policy Implementation. Policy Impacts are analysed in terms of their effectiveness, equity, and the unintended consequences they might produce, helping clarify the Interconnected Challenges and Trade-Offs involved.

Trump’s Policies have acted as accelerants, intensifying existing Trends rather than creating entirely new ones. His Rhetoric and Policies have deepened Societal Polarisation and Racial Inequalities. For instance, his Endorsements of Voter Suppression Efforts and Divisive Public Narratives have reshaped Public Discourse and exposed longstanding Systemic Issues. These Actions highlight the Administration’s ability to leverage existing tensions while facing scrutiny over their broader Societal Impact.

Cristina M. Rodríguez, a Yale Law Professor and former DOJ Attorney, highlighted the Core Tensions in U.S. Immigration Policy during her Lecture at Harvard Law School. She explained that Immigration Policy revolves around three Competing Ideas: Self-Governance, Civil Rights, and Global Networks. Self-Governance focuses on National Sovereignty and Resource Control, Civil Rights emphasise Fairness and Equality, and Global Networks call for addressing Inequality through International Cooperation. These competing priorities make it challenging to create Policies that balance National Interests with Global Responsibilities.

Rodríguez argued that the Self-Governance Model views Immigration Control as crucial for preserving Democracy and Social Welfare. The Civil Rights Approach seeks to dismantle Systemic Barriers, promoting Fair Treatment and Equality. Meanwhile, the Global Networks perspective highlights the World's Interconnected Nature, urging Policies that reduce Global Inequality. These differing Frameworks often clash, making unified Immigration Reforms difficult to achieve.

Stanford Professor Jens Hainmueller critiqued Trump’s Policies by pointing to Data on Immigration Trends and Economic Contributions. He noted that Unauthorised Immigration from Mexico is at historic lows, undermining the need for Expensive Projects like the Border Wall. Studies show Immigrants significantly contribute to Innovation and Economic Growth, suggesting that Exclusionary Policies could harm the Economy. Ignoring such Evidence risks creating Inefficiencies and intensifying Legal Disputes.

For example, the Administration’s focus on a Border Wall seems unnecessary given the low levels of Unauthorised Immigration from Mexico. Policies targeting mass Deportations could further strain already overwhelmed Immigration Courts, leaving Legitimate Claims unresolved for years. Hainmueller emphasised that Immigrants play a vital Role in boosting GDP and driving Innovation, making Restrictive Policies counterproductive. These factors highlight the potential Long-Term Costs of the Administration’s Approach.

Key Parts of the Executive Order are expected to face significant Legal Hurdles. Efforts to construct Barriers along the Southern Border have a Contentious History, with previous delays stemming from Lawsuits over Funding Diversions, Environmental Impacts, and Private Land Seizures. Federal Courts have struck down attempts to reallocate Military Funds for such Projects, and Environmental Groups have challenged plans citing threats to Protected Wildlife Habitats. Additionally, Private Landowners have brought Eminent Domain Lawsuits, some of which have lingered for years due to the complexity of Property Rights and Legal Disputes.

The Issue of Eminent Domain, where Private Landowners contest Government Seizures, remains a significant obstacle and could prolong Construction Timelines. These Challenges underscore the intricate Legal and Financial Barriers to executing Large-Scale Infrastructure Projects. Opposition from Environmental Organisations and State Governments further highlights the Ecological and Procedural Concerns tied to such Measures. With these Lawsuits likely to increase Costs and delay progress, the Administration faces substantial challenges in realising its Objectives.

The Directive to use Military Forces for Immigration Enforcement raises Constitutional Concerns, including potential violations of the Posse Comitatus Act, which limits Military Involvement in Domestic Law Enforcement. Advocacy Groups are expected to argue that such Provisions overstep Executive Authority and set dangerous Precedents. Additionally, plans to detain and deport Undocumented Migrants rapidly are likely to face Opposition in Federal Courts. Critics will focus on Due Process Rights and the Capacity of Detention Facilities to handle increased numbers humanely.

Rodríguez also observed that Modern Immigration Debates are shaped by Economic Perceptions and Societal Attitudes. Immigration, once a Bipartisan Issue, has become deeply polarised. This shift reflects deeper Conflicts over National Sovereignty, Equality, and Global Interconnectedness. Trump’s Policies have amplified these Divisions, making Comprehensive Reform more elusive.

The Family Separation Policy from Trump’s First Term serves as a warning about the Consequences of Extreme Immigration Measures. Over 5,000 Children were separated from their Parents, with some remaining apart for years due to Administrative Hurdles. This Policy drew widespread condemnation, including criticism from the United Nations. Its Legacy underscores the Human and Legal Fallout of Aggressive Enforcement Strategies.

Despite Court Rulings ordering Reunifications, many Families endured prolonged separations due to Logistical Issues. The Global criticism of this Policy highlights the Reputational Risks of such Actions. Legal Challenges over Family Separations remain unresolved, reminding us of the intense scrutiny similar Policies can face. Renewed efforts to enforce controversial Measures, like requiring Asylum-Seekers to remain in Mexico, will likely reignite these Debates.

Plans to terminate Programmes like CBP One and Parole Initiatives may face Lawsuits from Immigrant Rights Groups. These Groups could argue that such Decisions are arbitrary, capricious, and inconsistent with Immigration Laws. Efforts to exert Presidential Authority over Independent Regulatory Commissions could also spark Legal Resistance. These Disputes test the Boundaries of Executive Power and could strain the Administration’s Resources.

Experts warn that Logistical and Resource Challenges may limit Large-Scale Deportation Efforts. High-Profile Enforcement Actions may aim to project strength but are unlikely to result in sweeping changes. Policies like the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP) require International Cooperation, adding another layer of complexity. Such Policies could discourage Immigrants from seeking Work, Healthcare, or Education, exacerbating Social and Economic Challenges.

The Administration’s Ambitious Agenda risks being overshadowed by these prolonged Legal Battles. These Disputes could shape Public Perception, potentially painting the Administration as overly confrontational or ineffective. Political Capital spent on Legal Challenges might hinder progress on other priorities. Successfully navigating these Hurdles will be crucial for maintaining focus on broader Goals.

Legal delays and uncertainty could stall Immigration Reforms, creating an impression of disorganisation. Prolonged Court Battles may overshadow successes in other Areas, reinforcing Negative Narratives. The Time and Resources spent on Litigation could strain the Administration’s ability to manage its broader Policy Objectives. Without Strategic Adjustments, these Challenges may undermine its overarching Goals.

Trump’s Presidency underscores how Policies interact with Societal, Political, and Institutional Dynamics. His actions have intensified Societal Divisions, shifted the Judicial Landscape, and left lasting Policy Challenges. While his Rhetoric inspires confidence among Supporters, the Legal Obstacles ahead could hinder progress. Analysts stress the importance of Collaboration and Strategy to overcome these Challenges effectively.

To achieve meaningful Reforms, the Administration must adopt a more Measured Approach. Collaborating with Bipartisan Lawmakers could create more durable Solutions. Smaller, targeted Measures could avoid Legal Pitfalls while advancing Key Goals. Open Communication about Policy Intentions and Benefits might foster broader understanding and support.

Passing Bipartisan Reforms would reduce Legal Risks and build Public Trust. Incremental steps could deliver progress without triggering prolonged Court Battles. Transparent Dialogue with the Public could enhance the Policy’s Acceptance and Long-Term Success. This Strategy would ensure the Administration’s efforts are both effective and sustainable.

The "Securing Our Borders" Executive Order reflects the Administration’s determination to tackle Illegal Immigration. However, its broad scope risks entangling the Administration in lengthy Legal Battles, diverting Resources and Attention. Adopting a Strategic and Collaborative Approach is essential to avoid these pitfalls and ensure success. Otherwise, the Legal Challenges could overshadow Achievements and derail the broader Agenda.

The Relations between China and Taiwan are constantly tense since their de facto Separation in 1949 and are also causing tension in relations between Beijing and Washington.

On October 1, 1949, Mao Zedong proclaimed the Founding of the People’s Republic of China in Beijing. The Nationalist Forces of the Chinese Kuomintang Party under Chiang Kai-shek abandoned China and fled to Taiwan (formerly Formosa), then formed a Government on December 7 and banned all Relations between the Island (officially the Republic of China) and Communist China.

Then in 1950 Taiwan became an Ally of Washington, which was at war with China in Korea. In June 1950, USA President Harry Truman ordered the USA 7th Fleet to repel any possible attacks by the Chinese Communists on Taiwan. At the same time, Chiang Kai-shek was asked to build fortifications on the Coast of Taiwan to prevent a possible Chinese attack.

Lai Ching-te’s Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), which is now in Power for the third time, views Taiwan as a de facto Sovereign Nation with a distinct Taiwanese Identity and Mandarin as its Official Language.

Taiwan, it should be noted, has its own Army, Currency, Constitution and now a Democratically Elected Government - from 1949 to 1987 it was under an Authoritarian Regime of Martial Law - but it is not recognised as an Independent Country by most Governments in the world.

To date, it has been recognised as an Independent State by only 12 Countries and has not been accepted as a Member of International Organisations as China insists that it is a Province of its own, part of its Territory, and prevents its integration and recognition.

Over the Decades, Taiwan has become increasingly isolated. At the same time, however, ties between Taiwan and the United States have grown stronger, with increased Arms and Military Equipment sales and high-level Political Cooperation under Lai’s popular Female Predecessor, Tsai Ing-wen, fact which has angered Beijing.

However, historically the USA position in relation to Taiwan has remained deliberately vague, namely regarding whether it would defend it in the event of a Chinese invasion, the well-known strategic ambiguity.

The USA has long been treading on a fine red line. Thus, under the so-called One China Policy, Washington recognises the People’s Republic of China as the Sole Legitimate Government of China. It also recognises Beijing’s position that Taiwan is part of China, but has never accepted the Chinese Communist Party’s claim to Sovereignty over the Island.

Taiwan has an Area of ​​36,197 sq km and a Population of approximately 23,400,000. Its Capital is Taipei, which is located at its Northern tip. It is, moreover, an Ultra Modern City with intense High-Tech Industrial Development and Officially designated as an Alpha World City that is, a City that has a direct impact on Global Events of Social, Economic and Political dimensions.

In addition to the Island of the same name, the Country also owns 168 Smaller Islands. It is separated from China by the Taiwan Strait and is bordered to the North by the East China Sea, to the East by the Pacific Ocean, and to South by the South China Sea.

Since 1960, it has entered a period of rapid Economic Growth and Industrialisation, with many Economists speaking of the Taiwan Miracle. Its Economy is Export-oriented. It excels in Technology and is currently the 21st Largest Economy in the World, while also coming in 34th in the World Ranking in terms of GDP per Capita.

Taiwan’s position on the World Map makes it particularly important for the World’s Major Powers. The Island is of great Strategic Importance to the United States, given its proximity to Close Allies of Washington in the Region, such as Japan, South Korea and the Philippines.

In addition, the Taiwan Strait is considered crucial for the movement of Global Trade, while it is estimated that the Island produces 60% of the World’s Production of Microchips, essential Technological Components for the manufacture of Mobile Phones and Lithium Batteries.

TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company), Headquartered in the huge Hsinchu Science Park, is the Largest Semiconductor (or Microchip) Producer in the World with a Capitalisation of $426bn.

As for the Military balance in the Taiwan Strait, it is firmly in China’s favor and it would be unlikely that the Island State would be able to defend itself in the event of a Chinese attack without External help.

Under President Xi Jinping, China has stepped up its display of Military Power, sending record numbers of Chinese Fighter Jets, Drones and Warships around the Island and holding Military Exercises in response to Political Exchanges between the US and Taiwan.

Beijing’s Message to Taipei and Washington from this Military Activity is crystal clear: Taiwan Independence is incompatible with Peace. The Issue is an Internal Affair that does not allow Foreign interference.

In his New Year’s Speech, moreover, President Xi Jinping declared: No one can stop the Reunification of China with Taiwan, giving a clear warning to all those Forces that openly support Independence inside and outside the Island.

Taiwan, for its part, demands that China permanently end its Military Activity in Neighboring Waters, which it says clearly undermines Peace and Stability and disrupts International Shipping and Trade.

But what consequences would a war between the USA Taiwan and China have for the Planet? A Bloomberg Article has previously argued that a Military Conflict in Taiwan could cost the Global Economy an astronomical amount $10trn, equivalent to 10% of global GDP, far exceeding the economic consequences of the Coronavirus Pandemic, the war in Ukraine and the Global Financial Crisis. And of course, the Blood that would be shed would be immeasurable.

In closing, I would like to express the hope that things will not escalate and that a Military Confrontation between the USA-Taiwan and China will therefore be prevented, which would be disastrous, as has been pointed out, not only for the Region but also for the entire Planet.

Isidoros Karderinis was born in Athens in 1967. He is a Journalist, Foreign Press Correspondent accredited to the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He is also as an Economist, Novelist and Poet.

Fellow Nigerians,

As we enter 2025, I wish everyone a happy and prosperous New Year. May you be rich in joy, success, and good health.

As the new year dawns, it brings many hopes, aspirations, and prospects for better days. By the grace of God, 2025 will be a year of great promise in which we will fulfil our collective desires.

Though 2024 posed numerous challenges to our citizens and households, I am confident that the New Year will bring brighter days.

Economic indicators point to a positive and encouraging outlook for our nation. Fuel prices have gradually decreased, and we recorded foreign trade surpluses in three consecutive quarters. Foreign reserves have risen, and the Naira has strengthened against the US dollar, bringing greater stability.

The stock market’s record growth has generated trillions of naira in wealth, and the surge in foreign investment reflects renewed confidence in our economy. Nevertheless, the cost of food and essential drugs remained a significant concern for many Nigerian households in 2024.

In 2025, our government is committed to intensifying efforts to lower these costs by boosting food production and promoting local manufacturing of essential drugs and other medical supplies. We are resolute in our ambition to reduce inflation from its current high of 34.6% to 15%. With diligent work and God’s help, we will achieve this goal and provide relief to all our people.

In this new year, my administration will further consolidate and increase access to credit for individuals and critical sectors of the economy to boost national economic output.

To achieve this, the federal government will establish the National Credit Guarantee Company to expand risk-sharing instruments for financial institutions and enterprises.

The Company — expected to start operations before the end of the second quarter — is a partnership of government institutions, such as the Bank of Industry, Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation, the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Agency, and Ministry of Finance Incorporated, the private sector, and multilateral institutions.

This initiative will strengthen the confidence of the financial system, expand credit access, and support under-served groups such as women and youth. It will drive growth, re-industrialisation, and better living standards for our people.

On a personal note, thank you for placing your confidence in me as your president. Your trust humbles me, and I promise to continue serving you diligently and wholeheartedly.

We will continue to embark on necessary reforms to foster sustainable growth and prosperity for our nation.

I seek your cooperation and collaboration at all times as we pursue our goal of a one trillion-dollar economy. Let us stay focused and united.

We are on the right path to building a great Nigeria that will work for everyone. Let us not get distracted by a tiny segment of our population that still sees things through the prisms of politics, ethnicity, region, and religion.

To achieve our national goals and objectives, we must become better citizens and uncompromising in our devotion and allegiance to Nigeria.

Citizens’ moral rectitude and faith in our country are fundamental to the success of the Renewed Hope Agenda. In 2025, we will commit to promoting adherence to ethical principles, shared values, and beliefs under the National Identity Project.

I will unveil the National Values Charter, already approved by the Federal Executive Council, in the first quarter of 2025. I will launch an ambitious national orientation campaign that fosters patriotism and love for our country and inspires citizens to rally together. The Charter will promote mutual commitments between the government and citizens and foster trust and cooperation among our diverse population and between the government and the citizens.

As far-reaching and foundational as our reforms are, they can produce the desired outcomes only through shared common values and identities and unconditional love for our country.

The Youth Confab will begin in the first quarter of 2025, a testament to our commitment to youth inclusiveness and investment as nation-builders. The Ministry of Youth will soon announce the modalities for selecting the conference’s representatives from our diverse, youthful population.

Dear Compatriots, I urge you to continue believing in yourselves and keeping faith in our blessed country.

Let me use this New Year’s message to urge our governors and local council chairpersons to work closely with the central government to seize emerging opportunities in agriculture, livestock, and tax reforms and move our nation forward. I commend governors who have embraced our Compressed Natural Gas initiative by launching CNG-propelled public transport. I also congratulate those who have adopted electric vehicles as part of our national energy mix and transition. The Federal Government will always offer necessary assistance to the states.

To all citizens, your sacrifices have not been in vain over the past 19 months. I assure you they will not be in vain even in the months ahead. Together, let us stay the course of nation-building.

The New Year will bring us closer to the bright future we all desire and the Nigeria of our dreams.

God bless you all, and may God bless our beloved country, Nigeria.

Happy New Year and a prosperous 2025 to you all!

Nigeria is one of Africa’s largest Economies, yet much of its Valuable Resources—like Oil, Cassava, and Leather—are sold as Raw Materials. These Raw Products are then brought back as expensive Finished Goods. It’s like growing Cocoa, selling it cheaply, and then buying it back as Costly Chocolate. The European Union (EU), however, has found smarter ways to manage its Trade. Using tools called FIGARO Indicators, the EU can spot Opportunities, reduce Waste, and create Jobs. Nigeria could learn a lot by using similar Strategies.

Take Cassava, for example. Even though Nigeria is the World’s largest Cassava producer, we still import Cassava Starch and Ethanol. Why? Because we don’t process enough of it Locally. By using Methods like the EU’s, Nigeria could track Cassava’s Journey from Farms to Factories to Markets. This would show where Value is lost. Building Local Factories to Process Cassava could reduce Imports, save Money, and create many Jobs in Farming, Manufacturing, and Transportation.

The Leather Industry has the same problem. Sokoto’s Leather is some of the best in Africa, but much of it is sold as Raw Hides, letting other Countries profit by making Shoes, Bags, and Jackets. Imagine if Sokoto became known Worldwide like Italy for its Leather Products. With smart Planning and Investment, Nigeria could produce High-Quality Goods and grow a strong Local Industry that competes Globally. Reports show that Nigeria’s Leather Industry could grow its Contribution to the Economy significantly if more Leather is processed Locally. This could open up new Markets and create many Jobs.

The EU’s approach to handling Crises also provides Lessons. When COVID-19 disrupted Global Trade, Countries that relied heavily on Imports struggled the most. Nigeria experienced this too, especially with Medicine and Food Supplies. Tools like FIGARO could help Nigeria map out its Import Needs and develop Local Solutions, making the Economy Stronger and more Self-Reliant. For example, investing in Local Pharmaceutical Production could reduce reliance on Imported Medicines and create a steady Supply Chain.

In Technology, Lagos is already a Center for Innovation, but many Startups still depend on Imported Software and Hardware. What if we started making more of these Products here in Nigeria? Imagine Nigerian-Made Apps and Devices being used not just at Home but across Africa and beyond. FIGARO-Style Tools could help identify where Local Tech Production can grow and reduce the need for Imports. Lagos’s Tech Ecosystem has already attracted significant Investments, showing its potential to expand and compete Globally if given the right support.

Unemployment, especially among Young People, is one of Nigeria’s biggest challenges. Tools that analyse Trade and Production can show where Investments can create the most Jobs. Developing Industries like Sokoto’s Leather Sector or Lagos’ Tech Scene could create Work Opportunities at every Level, from Factory Workers to Office Professionals. These Jobs would improve Incomes and strengthen Communities. For example, targeted Investment in Training and Infrastructure for the Leather Industry could create thousands of Jobs every year.

The Environment is another Area where Nigeria can learn. The EU uses its Tools to make Industries greener, and Nigeria could do the same. Cleaner Production Methods in Industries like Cement or Manufacturing would not only protect the Environment but also attract Investors who care about Sustainability. This would position Nigeria as a Leader in Eco-Friendly Development. Using Renewable Energy in Factories could also help reduce Emissions and Lower Production Costs.

Discussions about Nigeria’s Tax Reforms, especially Value-Added Tax (VAT) Distribution, also show the need for Fair Policies. Some States believe they should keep more of the VAT they generate, while others argue for sharing Funds more equally to support Essential Services. Using Data-Driven Tools like FIGARO, Nigeria could analyse how VAT is generated and spent. This would help ensure that Productive States are rewarded while Less-Developed Ones still get enough support for Schools, Hospitals, and Roads. A balanced Approach could build trust among States and encourage all Regions to boost their Economic Activities.

The EU’s success shows what is possible. Their experiences are detailed in a Report called Macroeconomic Globalisation Indicators Based on FIGARO, available on the Eurostat Website. Nigeria can adapt these Strategies to fit its own Needs, improving Trade Policies and creating Fair Tax Systems.

Nigeria has the Resources, Talent, and Potential to grow Industries that compete Globally and improve Lives Locally. By keeping more Value within the Country, creating Jobs, and designing smarter Policies, Nigeria can turn its Potential into real Prosperity. The time to act is now. Let’s show the World what Nigeria is capable of.

Picture this - it’s Thanksgiving. The Cameras are snapping, People are laughing, and there you are, standing next to a Turkey. With a quick Signature, you save this Bird from becoming Dinner, and everyone smiles at the silly Tradition. But then, using that same Power, you pardon your Son, and the World goes wild with anger.

This is the tricky World of Presidential Pardons—a mix of fun rituals and serious decisions that can make or break trust.

In the United States, the President’s Power to pardon comes from Article II, Section 2, Clause 1 of the Constitution, known as the Pardon Clause. It allows the President to "grant Reprieves and Pardons for Offenses against the United States, except in Cases of Impeachment." While there’s a Formal Process involving the Office of the Pardon Attorney, the Presidents can skip all that and act directly if they want to.

In Nigeria, the President has a similar Power under Section 175(1) of the Constitution. This "Prerogative of Mercy" lets the President show compassion, fix Judicial mistakes, or bring peace to a Divided Nation. But, like in the U.S., this Power isn’t always used wisely. Sometimes, it feels more like a Political Tool than an Act of Kindness.

Take Nigeria’s Fourth Republic, for example. Presidential Pardons have been used to reward Political Allies or erase Corruption Charges. When former Bayelsa Governor Diepreye Alamieyeseigha was pardoned, it caused an uproar, with many wondering if Justice had been sold out for convenience.

In America, the story isn’t much different. President Obama pardoned Non-violent Offenders to highlight unfair punishments, but some said he didn’t do enough. President Trump’s Pardons, on the other hand, often seemed personal—like helping out Friends or Allies such as Roger Stone and Paul Manafort. This raised big questions about whether the Pardon Power was being used for Justice or Favors.

Now, President Biden’s recent pardon of his Son, Hunter Biden, has stirred up even more debate. Hunter faced serious charges like Tax Evasion and alleged Drug Offenses. By stepping in, Biden showed the deeply personal side of Pardons, but it also raised questions: Was this a Father helping his Child or a President misusing his Power? Just like when Nixon was pardoned Decades ago, this Act has sparked fierce arguments about Fairness and Responsibility.

What makes this Power so fascinating is how it’s both praised and criticised. Take the Case of Mubarak Bala in Nigeria, a Prisoner of Conscience. Many, including U.S. Lawmakers like Jamie Raskin, have called on the Nigerian President to use the Pardon Power to set him free. But when that same mercy is shown to a Political Ally or Family Member, People see it as Favoritism.

Experts say the Power to pardon is supposed to bring a Human Touch to the Legal System. Laws aren’t perfect, and Leaders need the ability to fix mistakes. But this same freedom can easily be abused, leaving People to wonder: Where do we draw the line between Justice and playing Favorites?

Think back to that Thanksgiving Turkey. Sparing a Bird is harmless fun. Pardoning a Son, though, puts a Leader’s Morals and Decisions under the spotlight. It’s no surprise People react so strongly. These acts show the Human side of Leadership—for better or worse.

In the end, Pardons reveal the heart of Leadership. They’re about juggling Personal Feelings with Public Duty, Fairness with Compassion, and Tradition with Transformation. Maybe next time a Turkey gets saved, we’ll laugh at the lighthearted moment but also remember the big questions that come with this immense Power.

FEDERAL MINISTRY OF MARINE AND BLUE ECONOMY

FIRST REVIEW DRAFT

POLICY ON MARINE AND BLUE ECONOMY

PRELIMINARY PAGES

• FORWARD

Marine and Blue Economy encompasses a broad spectrum of activities, from traditional industries such as fisheries and shipping to emerging sectors like marine biotechnology and Blueocean Energy. The world's oceans, seas, and coasts are vast and rich ecosystems that have for long sustained human life and economic activities.  As we move forward in the 21st century, the importance of exploring and exploiting Nigeria’s aquatic resources and marine spaces are now being recognized for their potential contribution to inclusive and sustainable development.

To this end, the establishment and framing of the governance and administrative structures that superintend the Marine and Blue Economy ecosystem in an environmentally sustainable manner is rapidly gaining global traction.  Accordingly, countries are increasingly exploring the vast resources hosted within their ecosystem, thereby balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability.

This Policy aims to leverage the vast potential of Nigeria’s Marine resources inclusive of inland waters, while ensuring the preservation of marine biodiversity and the health of marine ecosystems and presents Nigeria with a unique opportunity to innovate and create a sustainable future. 

1. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who supported and contributed to this work on the Marine and Blue Economy Policy. It is the product of the collective and collaborative efforts of experts in the fields of Policy, Governance, Economics, Law of the Sea, Geology and Mining, Environment, Marine Biology, Fisheries, Oceanographers, Aquacultures, and Development drawn from governments, civil society, academia, researchers and inter-ministerial entities. Special thanks are due to the local coastal communities/stakeholders for their cooperation and willingness to share their experiences and knowledge, which were crucial in shaping this work. This Policy was produced collaboratively by the contributors who worked in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, from Monday 21st of October to Wednesday 34th October 2024. This Policy is to be considered a living document. Its implementation will generate further lessons and good practices emerging from countries engaged in the Blue Economy process. It is expected to provide decision-makers and other stakeholders with clear and simple guidelines and options for aligning their policies with the Marine and Blue Economy concept. Finally, we would like to acknowledge the ongoing efforts of all those dedicated to advancing the sustainable management of marine resources and promoting the blue economy. Their commitment continues to inspire and drive positive change in our oceans and coastal regions.

1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1.1 The National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy is a strategic framework designed to harness Nigeria’s vast marine and coastal resources to foster sustainable economic growth, environmental protection, and socio-economic development aligns with global trends towards integrated marine management and positions Nigeria as a leader in the Marine and Blue Economy sector. The vision for this national policy is to transform Nigeria into a global hub for sustainable marine and blue economy practices, promoting economic development, environmental stewardship, and social equity. As a nation, we must ensure that we achieve a responsible utilization of marine resources, protect biodiversity, and while supporting economic activities expand and diversify Nigeria’s marine-based industries, including fisheries, tourism, and shipping. The policy understands the need to mitigate the impacts of marine pollution and climate change, preserve marine ecosystems for future generations, enhance the livelihoods of coastal communities through inclusive and equitable opportunities in the blue economy, foster innovation in marine technologies, and support research initiatives that drive progress in the sector. 

1.2 The policy equally addresses the need to implement sustainable fishing practices, protect marine biodiversity, and ensure sustainable exploration within the Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ) and Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (ABNJ). It will also restore degraded marine environments and promote marine tourism, development of port infrastructure, and support maritime industries including shipping and offshore oil and gas exploration. Nigeria has developed as a necessity, strategies to reduce marine pollution, address the impacts of climate change, enhance marine protected areas, involve local communities in decision-making processes, enhance their capacities, and provide economic opportunities linked to the blue economy. While the country has identified the need to establish a robust institutional structure for policy implementation, coordination among stakeholders, and enforcement of regulations that will emanate from this policy, it is also conscious of the import of investing in research, technology development, and training programs to support the growth of the Marine and Blue Economy sectors. 

1.3 It also recognizes the need to establish mechanisms for tracking progress, assessing impact, and making necessary adjustments to ensure the policy’s effectiveness. Consequently, the policy is expected to contribute to the diversification of the economy through job creation, thereby increasing Nigeria’s GDP. It will also promote marine ecosystem health, reduce pollution, enhance resilience to climate change, enhance access to economic activities, improve the quality of life, and strengthen social equity among coastal and inland waterways communities.  In light of the above, the development process for the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy started with identifying the need to have a robust policy for the Marine and Blue Economy in Nigeria and commenced with the inauguration of the Technical Committee made up of staff of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, aides of the Hon. Minister and Resource Persons.  

1.4 The development process of this policy contains Eight Broad Parts that deal with the Introduction and Overview of the Policy; Legal and Institutional Framework; Maritime Transport, Trade and Shipping; Fishery and Aquaculture; Marine Abiotic Resources; Marine Innovation & Technology; Cross-Cutting Issues and Policy Implementation Arrangement. represents a transformative approach to leveraging Nigeria’s marine resources for sustainable development. By focusing on integrated management, economic diversification, and environmental protection, Nigeria is poised to achieve significant advancements in its blue economy sector, benefiting both current and future generations.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Foreword
2. Acknowledgement

iii. Executive Summary

Table of Contents

 Acronyms 

PART ONE: INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW OF THE POLICY

1.0 Preamble -

1.2 Overview 

1.3 Background

1.4 Aim and Objectives

1.5 Mandate

1.6 Vision Statement

1.7 Mission Statement

1.8 Purpose

1.9 Scope

1.10 Context

1.11 Policy Development Process

PART TWO: LEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK

2.0 Preamble

2.1 Nigerian Port Authority (NPA)

2.2 Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA)

2.3 Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC)

2.4 National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA)

2.5 Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN)

2.6 Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN)

2.7 Nigerian Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research (NIOMR)

PART THREE: MARITIME TRANSPORT, TRADE AND SHIPPING

3.0 Preamble 

3.1 Maritime Transport      

3.2 Overall Governance and Maritime Administration 

3.3 Cabotage Administration   

3.4 Maritime Safety and Security     

3.5 Maritime Infrastructure Development

3.6 Ports and Harbor Management       

3.7 Inland Dry Ports  

3.8 Vehicle Transit Areas                               

3.9 Ship Registration and Administration  

3.10 Inland Waterways Administration        

3.11 Accident Investigation (Marine Boards of Enquiry) 

3.12 Technology of the Marine and Blue Economy Value Chain  

Maritime Security 

PART FOUR -   FISHERIES AND AQUACULTURE 

4.0 Preamble

4.1 Inland Fisheries (Lakes, Rivers, Dams and Reservoirs)

4.2 Marine /Industrial Fisheries - (Lagoons, creeks, mangroves, High seas -

4.3 Fisheries Resource management, monitoring, control & surveillance -

4.4 Aquaculture (species diversification, gen bank commercial and non-commercial species) 

4.5 Fish Processing, Quality assurance and Fish disease control and Management 

4.6 Fisheries & Aquaculture research, innovation, technology & development 

PART FIVE: MARINE ABIOTIC RESOURCES

5.0 Preamble

5.1 Coastal Resilience and Adaptation to Climate Change

5.2 Seabed Mining

5.3 Seabed Cabling and Piping                                 

5.4 Seabed Decommissioning

5.5 Marine Litters             

PART SIX: MARINE INNOVATION & TECHNOLOGY 

6.0 Preamble 

6.1 Marine Technology

6.2 Marine Biotechnology

6.3 Marine Genetics

6.4 Marine Pharmaceuticals

6.5 Water Desalination

6.6 Blue Energy (e.g., offshore wind, tidal power)

6.7 Sustainable Fishing

6.8 Marine Pollution and Waste Management                

6.9   Data and Information Management               

6.10 Marine Spatial Planning (conservation, biodiversity, mapping, marine protected area

6.11 Eco-tourism and marine recreation

6.12   Knowledge Generation and Management

PART SEVEN: CROSS CUTTING ISSUES: 

7.0 Preamble 

7.1 Research and Development

7.2 Human Resource and Professionalism

7.3 Maritime Labour Matters

7.4 Education & Training

7.5 Funding and Investment

7.6 Climate Change

PART EIGHT     IMPLEMENTATION STRUCTURE 

8.0   Coordination Mechanism   

 8.1 National Implementation Committee (NIC) 

8.2   Membership of the National Implementation Committee  

8.3   Functions of National Implementation Committee (NIC) 

 8.4 Technical Working Committee (TWC)  

8.5   Membership of the Technical Working Committee 

8.6   Functions of Technical Working Committee (TWC                                                                         

PART NINE: MARINE AND BLUE ECONOMY STAKEHOLDERS 

9.0 Introduction 

9.1 Role of Coastal and Water Bodies States 

9.2 Role of National Stakeholders

9.3 Role of Sub-Regional, Continental and International Stakeholders

9.4 Timeline (Roadmap) of Implementation Strategies                           

9.5 Monitoring & Evaluation                                                                         

9.6 Risk and Mitigation Strategy            

9.7 Policy Review Timeline  

10. Conclusion                                                                                                 

ANNEXURES:

All relevant Annexures of Definitions, Abbreviations; etc

PART ONE: INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW - 

1.0 Introduction

1.2 The Marine and Blue Economy (MBE) represents a holistic and sustainable approach to harnessing the potential of oceans, coastal and inland waters living and non-living things for economic growth, ecological conservation, and societal development. It promotes economic growth, social inclusion, preservation, and improvement of livelihoods while at the same time ensuring environmental sustainability of the oceans, and coastal and inland water areas. It is regarded as the decoupling of socioeconomic activities from environmental degradation and optimizing the benefits that may be derived from marine and inland water resources. It conceptualizes oceans as ‘development spaces’ where spatial planning integrates conservation, sustainable use of oil and mineral wealth extraction, bioprospecting, sustainable energy production, and marine transport. The MBE paradigm constitutes a sustainable development framework for developing countries that address equity in access to development and the sharing of benefits from marine and inland water resources, offering scope for re-investment in human development. 

2 Overview 

1.2.1 Nigeria’s total land and water area is 923,768 sq. km, with the area of land being 910, 768 sq. km while that of water is 13,000 sq. km. The Nigerian coastline, which is approximately 850 km stretches across eight states Akwa-Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross Rivers, Delta, Edo, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, and Rivers, the coastline zone is classified into four broad regions namely the barrier lagoon coast, the transgressive mud coast, the  Niger Delta and the strand coast and comprises inshore waters, coastal lagoons, estuaries and mangroves which provide opportunities in oil and gas exploitation, shipping, fishing, agriculture, sand mining, and tourism. Taken together the Marine and Blue Economy Sub-sector of Nigeria can support the nation’s economic diversification policy in the other areas of Shipbuilding and repairs ports infrastructure and services, energy generation, seabed mining underwater cabling, marine biotechnology, (pharmaceuticals and chemicals), water desalination, waste management and disposal, maritime research and consultancy services, and maritime habitat protection and restoration.   Given the significance of the sector, the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy (FMMBE) was created in August 2023 with the mandate to Institutionalize the Marine and Blue Economy as an important pillar for economic sustenance and growth diversification having due regards to the ecosystem.

1.3 Justification

1.3.1 To provide a safe, secure, and sustainable MBE sector, it is expedient that a robust policy framework is developed. This will serve as a blueprint for Nigeria's strategic utilization of its extensive maritime resources and enhance a strong, diversified, sustainable, and competitive economy. 

1.3.2 The development of the policy is premised on:

1. under-explored maritime domain;
2. inadequate comprehensive policy, addressing critical areas that are in line with the objectives of the MBE; 
3. limited involvement of government agencies, local communities, industry partners, academia, and international organizations;
4. inadequate mechanism for generating and collecting reliable data;
5. inadequate framework to address the increasing demand for sustainable development, job creation, and ecological preservation within the blue sector; and 
6. vast opportunities to support the country’s food security and energy infrastructure from the marine ecosystem.

1.4 Aim and Objectives 

1.4.1 this policy aims to provide a blueprint for effective management and coordination among relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), and Stakeholders within the value chain for harmonizing national actions in the sector. 1.4.2 Hence, the objectives include:

1. stimulate economic growth and job creation by expanding maritime industries, developing fisheries, aquaculture, maritime transport, and related sectors;
2. enhance resilience to climate change impacts through adaptation strategies, contributing to the overall sustainability and ecological integrity of marine ecosystems;
3. enhance and improve the socio-economic well-being of coastal and inland waterways communities;
4. Stimulate strong international cooperation and diplomacy;
5. Support allied sectors of the economy such as energy infrastructure, food security, and industrialization; and
6. Support the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

1.5 Mandate

1.5.1 To Institutionalize the Marine and Blue Economy as an important pillar for economic sustenance and growth diversification having due regard to the ecosystem.

1.6 Vision Statement

1.6.1 To make Nigeria a global leader in sustainable marine and blue economy practices.

1.7 Mission Statement 

1.7.1 To sustainably harness Nigeria's rich marine and coastal resources, fostering economic growth and development while ensuring the conservation of our marine ecosystems. 

1.8 Scope

1.8.1 The policy addresses the prospects, opportunities, and challenges in maritime transport, trade, shipping, fishery and aquaculture, marine abiotic resources, marine innovation & technology, legal and institutional framework, and other cross-cutting issues like climate change and sustainability pathways in line with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principle. Geographically, it covers all coastline and marine waters within the EEZ and ABNJ. It also applies to all uses and activities in the marine environment, additional sector-specific policies, including maritime transport, tourism, fisheries, and the establishment of marine protected areas. 

1.8.2 Furthermore, it includes all aspects of offshore sovereignty, economically valuable resources in water, such as seabed, onshore infrastructure (seaports, maritime routes) connected with domestic and international trade, and offshore energy resources, be they fossil-based or blue energy. It envisages new and emerging marine technologies and the latest developments in science with an emphasis on the production of goods and services from fisheries, marine manufacturing, shipping, and tourism that relate to the sea and the oceans.

1.9 The Underlying Philosophy 

The Policy vision and the Mission statements will be best achieved with the underpinning philosophies:

1. Leadership: Building strong political will, commitment, and leadership that will engender strong and sustained private sector participation.
2. Priority Setting: Emphasizing the demand side as against the supply-driven STI engagements with the private sector in Nigeria.

iii. Funding: Evolving sustainable funding mechanisms and sustained investments on the part of government with the private sector as the focal point and development partners. 

1. Partnership: Building a virile National Robust and Innovative System, where all the key components are adequately linked for synergy, partnership building, and enhanced competitiveness for economic growth.
2. Acculturalization: Making NPMBE a way of life and building a culture of sustainability to create an enhanced standard of living for all citizens that recognize the Government-Industry Academia (GIA) linkages as a catalyst for economic transformation.

1.10 Policy Development Process

In a bid to develop a robust policy that reflects the mindset of relevant stakeholders and the expectations of the citizenry, the Ministry conducted a need analysis for the policy, after which a Steering and Technical Committee was constituted to develop a zero draft. While developing the policy, stakeholders from different sub-sectors were consulted including the coastal communities, inland waterways communities, Maritime ship owners and other critical stakeholders.  Similarly, inputs were harvested from multilateral organizations, MDAs, academia, and relevant development partners. 

1.10.1 In line with global best practice, the policy was subjected to the scrutiny of the Federal Ministry of Budget & Economic Planning, Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG), and KPMG. After several rounds of consultations and validation sessions, the draft policy was forwarded to the Federal Executive Council for Presidential assent. 

Following, the Presidential approval, several rounds of sensitization exercises were conducted to further enlighten citizens on the content and implications of the Policy. Summarily, the development of the Policy undertook the following process:

1. Identified the need for the policy 
2. Conducted need analysis 
3. Constituted and inaugurated the Steering and Technical Committees 
4. Developed Zero Draft
5. Engaged relevant MDAs
6. Conducted Stakeholder engagement/ validation
7. Forwarding of Draft Policy to Federal Executive Council (FEC)
8. Sensitization/Unveiling of the Approved Policy

PART TWO 

LEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK

2.0 The Legal Framework

2.1 Existing Situation 

2.1.1 The Marine and Blue Economy Sector is a dynamic sector with diverse local and international legal and regulatory frameworks as well as conventions. Also, the sector has cross-cutting and Inter-Ministerial activities that need a lot of collaboration and partnership. 

2.2 Policy Statement

The policy requires multi-faceted legislation, and this is what the policy has done. This framework encompasses legal, regulatory, and institutional structures to ensure sustainable management and utilization of marine and coastal resources

2.3 Policy Goal

To accord MBE a central role in National Economic Planning and Development through the establishment of effective legal and policy framework as well as strengthening linkages at various levels within the NIS. 

2.4 Policy Objectives

1. Review of relevant Acts to incorporate the new MBE Policy and its succeeding policies. 
2.  Facilitating, strengthening, and repositioning FMMBE through appropriate legal instruments to address the demands of the new MBE perspective as the custodian and coordinator of marine and blue economy matters in the country. 
3.  Establish and strengthen the National Council on Marine Research and Blue Economy for effective implementation of the MBE Policy.

2.5 Policy Strategies 

1. Ratification and domestication of IMO instruments into the Nigerian legal system ensures their enforcement across the nation’s maritime domain.
2. Effective implementation of the Suppression of Piracy and Other Maritime Offence (SPOMO) Act has helped in combating piracy in the Gulf of Guinea
3. Establish the National Marine Research and Innovation Fund 

2.6 Maritime Law Framework:

• Merchant Shipping Act (2007)
• Coastal and Inland Shipping (Cabotage) Act (2003)
•   Maritime Operations Coordinating Board Act (1992)
•   Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) Act (2007)
•   Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Act (1999)
•    NIWA Act
•    Shipping Regulations (2012)
•  Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006 (ratified by Nigeria)
•   SPOMO Act
•   NIOMR Act
•    MAN Act
•    CRFFN Act

 2.7 Blue Economy Framework

• National Ocean Policy (2014)
•   Nigerian Ocean Governance Framework (2017)
•  Fisheries Regulations (2011)
•   Aquaculture Regulations (2013)
•   Coastal Area Protection and Management Law (2011)
•  Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Act (1992)
•  National Environmental (Marine Pollution) Regulations (2011)

2.8 Regulatory Agencies:

1. Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA)
2.  Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA)
3.  National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA)
4.  Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC)
5.   Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN)
6.  Fisheries and Aquaculture Department (To be rephrase)

• Support MDAs

1. 1. Federal Ministry of Environment (FMEnv):
   2. Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS)
   3.  Federal Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (FMST&I) 
   4.  Federal Ministry of Finance (FMF)
   5. Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning (FMB&EP)   
   6. Federal Ministry of Justice (FMJ)   
   7.  Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs (FMFA) 
   8. Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development (MMSD) 
   9. Federal Ministry of Works   
   10.  Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment (FMIT&I):
   11. The Presidency – Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) National Boundary Commission and Surveyor General’s Office:   
   12. The Ministry of Petroleum Resources (MPR)

• The National Assembly (NASS):     

2.10   Sub-National CBOs and NGOs

The Sub-Nationals: State Governments, relevant State Ministries, Agencies, and Local Governments shall be consulted during the National Councils, CBOS, NGOS, and Stakeholders Forums for a seamless implementation of this Policy

2.11   International Conventions:

1. United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982
2.  International Maritime Organization (IMO) Conventions (e.g., SOLAS, MARPOL)
3.  African Maritime Transport Charter
4.  ECOWAS Maritime Transport Protocol

2.12 Regional and Bilateral Agreements:

1. Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Maritime Transport Protocol
2.  Gulf of Guinea Maritime Security Strategy
3.  Nigeria-Multilateral Cooperation Agreement on Maritime Security

PART THREE

MARITIME TRANSPORT, TRADE AND SHIPPING

3.0 Preamble

3.1 The Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in its efforts to reposition the Nigerian Maritime Transport System had: 

1. developed guidelines for the implementation of the Limitation of Liability for Maritime Claims (LLMC) Convention in Nigeria;
2. Finalized, gazette, and produced the Inland Waterways Transportation Regulation (2023) for safety on the inland waterways;
3. Commenced the implementation of the Nigerian Ports Process Manual (NPPM) on Joint Boarding of Vessel, Joint Cargo Examination, and Operation Free-the-Corridor Programme;
4. Developed a comprehensive four-year Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) Implementation Plan for the Ministry and its Agencies;
5. Adopted the National Joint Industrial (NJIC) Collective Bargaining Agreement on Conditions of Service for Nigerian Seafarers in Coastal Sector 2023;
6. Carried out Joint international compliance inspections with American and EU scientists on Nigerian fishing companies and vessels on TED/BRD.

3.1. Following the port reform of 2004, practically all core cargo handling activities and associated terminals were delegated to Private Terminal Operators, while jurisdiction at the seaside remained with the Nigerian Ports Authority. The Government is committed to promoting shipping and regulatory reforms to ensure that access to efficient and competitive shipping services is maintained. 

3.2 Maritime Transport 

3.2.1 Existing Situation

The maritime transportation industry in Nigeria is critical to the economic growth of the nation. At present, the Nigerian Maritime domain is well secured, especially with the deployment of the Deep Blue Security Architecture and the passage of the Suppression of Piracy and Other Maritime Offence (SPOMO) Act has helped in combating piracy in the Gulf of Guinea.   Nevertheless, the port turnaround time, connectivity to other modes, and automation of humans and trucks access control to the ports need to be addressed.

3.2.2 Policy Statement

Maritime transport aims to develop a maritime industry that is income-generating, self-sufficient, and competitive with comparative advantage in the domestic, regional, and global markets.

3.2.3 Policy Goal

To ensure that the port and ships operate in a safe, secure, efficient, and sustainable manner, to meet the nation’s economic and security needs. 

3.2.4 Policy Objectives

1. Strengthen the designated Agencies serving as the port economic regulator to harmonize and sustain port charges that will make business in Nigerian ports more efficient and competitive; 
2. Ensure the full implementation of the Single Window System and other trade facilitation instruments in the ports to fast-track cargo documentation and clearance;
3. Develop the necessary infrastructure required for the efficient multi-modal transport system in Nigeria through a network of functional road, rail, and inland waterways systems across the country;
4. Provide an enabling environment that will promote Public Private Partnership (PPP) in national and international maritime transport activities; and
5. Promote the use of Cost, insurance, and freight (CIF) for export and Free on Board (FOB) for import for all international trade transactions. 

3.2.5 Policy Strategy

In collaboration with other relevant MDAs and allied institutions

1. Collaborate with the National Assembly for the amendment of relevant Acts of the Agencies to make business in Nigerian ports more efficient and competitive; 
2. Full implementation of the Single Window System and other trade facilitation instruments in the ports to fast-track cargo documentation and clearance;
3. Provide infrastructure for efficient multi-modal transport system within the ports through a network of functional road, rail, and inland waterways system;
4. Promote Public Private Partnership (PPP) in national and international maritime transport activities; and
5. Promote the use of Cost, insurance, and freight (CIF) for export and Free on Board (FOB) for import for all international trade transactions.

3.3 Cabotage Administration

3.3.1 Existing Situation

The Cabotage policy in Nigeria, governed by the Cabotage Act of 2003, is aimed at developing indigenous shipping capacity by restricting coastal shipping between Nigerian ports to Nigerian-owned, built, manned, and registered vessels. The Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) supports Nigerian operators in vessel acquisition and dry docking to boost their involvement in Cabotage trades.

3.3.2 Policy Statement

The government recognizes the great potential and benefits of Coastal and Inland Shipping and is resolved to address the constraints to enable the country to fully exploit the benefits of the Coastal and Inland Shipping (Cabotage) Act 2003. Therefore, the government's objective is to develop inland and coastal shipping with private sector participation.

3.3.3 Policy Goal

1. Review of the Coastal and Inland Shipping (Cabotage) Act 2003 as stipulated.
2. Strengthen the institutions for effective enforcement of the provisions of the Act.
3. Encourage inter-agency synergy for effective implementation of the Act. 
4. Streamline the process of accessing the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) as enshrined in the Act.
5. Encourage the commitment of the government to the strict implementation of the Act.

3.3.4 Policy Objectives

To optimize the Cabotage regime in Nigeria by enhancing regulatory frameworks, promoting Indigenous participation through financial and operational support, improving operational standards, and fostering sustainable development in the domestic maritime industry.

3.3.5 Policy Strategy

In collaboration with other relevant MDAs and allied institutions

1. Facilitate access to funds and incentives for the acquisition and repairs of vessels.
2. Provide tax incentives and subsidies to enable indigenous investors to compete favorably with foreign maritime operators.
3. Promote joint ventures and investment in maritime projects.
4. Promote transfer of technology in the maritime industry.
5. Enforcement of the Cabotage Act.
6. Promote investment in port and maritime infrastructure, strengthening regulatory enforcement and monitoring and engagement with stakeholders.

3.4 Maritime Safety and Security

3.4.1 Maritime Safety

3.4.1.1   Existing Situation 

Despite the efforts by the government to ensure that vessels coming to Nigeria’s ports comply with international conventions, substandard vessels still visit the ports. The policy recognizes the need to strengthen the regulatory authorities and build capacity across the board. Nigeria’s action in the field of maritime transport, and particularly maritime safety and protection of the marine environment, generates significant added value to the international framework (IMO Conventions).  The ratification and domestication of IMO instruments into the Nigerian legal system ensures their enforcement across the nation’s maritime domain. In addition, Nigeria plays a pivotal role in improving international standards by adopting stringent requirements within the West and Central African sub-region and promoting their adoption at the international level.

3.4.1.2   Policy Statement

The policy aims to ensure safe, secure, and environmentally friendly system of transportation of goods and passengers in line with local and international standards.

3.4.1.3   Policy Goal

1. Ensure proper manning of vessels by Nigerian seafarers;
2. Ensure that all vessels within Nigerian waters meet the basic safety standards in line with international conventions and domestic legislations;
3. Ensure safe navigation of ships within Nigerian territorial waters without encumbrances;
4. Establish full maritime domain coverage and enhance Search and Rescue (SAR) operations in the maritime environment including the Gulf of Guinea;
5. Develop and promote mutual assistance and cooperation between neighboring State Parties in maritime safety, security and protection of the marine environment; and
6. Promote the sharing of best practices among State Parties in the overall management and operation of Maritime Administrations and other maritime entities.

3.4.1.4 Policy Objectives

1. Ensure that all ships operating in Nigerian waters operate by local and international maritime safety, security, and environmental protection regulations;
2. Promulgate appropriate legislation to govern the safe operation of Nigerian flagged ships worldwide and foreign ships operating in Nigerian waters by enforcing Port State and Flag State control measures;
3. Continue to fulfill international obligations under treaties, and multilateral and bilateral agreements regarding maritime safety, security and environmental matters;
4. Review and update maritime-related legislative frameworks in conformity with international obligations and the dynamics of the industry;
5. Collaborate with the West and Central African sub-region to eliminate sub-standard ships through continued implementation of the Flag State and Port State Control (PSC) regimes for Indigenous and foreign ships calling at Nigerian ports in line with extant MoUs;
6. Ensure the Flag State and Port State Control (PSC) inspection targets, currently set at 100% and 15% respectively of all ships making a port call are met and, ensure that the resources required are adequate;
7. Ensure effective Search and Rescue mechanisms through inter-agency collaboration and synergy;
8. Encourage inter-agency collaboration in dealing promptly with wrecks and derelicts in the Nation’s waters as well as create an enabling environment for ship recycling technology through PPP;
9. Ensure that all related interfaces with ships including Jetties and terminals (offshore and onshore) are maintained safely to avoid undue exposure of vessels to unnecessary risks; and
10. Ensure the implementation of the ISPS Code to detect security threats and employ security measures in ports, terminals, and ships.

3.4.1.5 Policy Strategy

In collaboration with other relevant MDAs and allied institutions

1. Ratification domestication and enforcement of all maritime safety conventions on all vessels within her territorial waters;
2. Establishment of an attractive and competitive ship registry and ensure that all vessels flying her flag meet the minimum manning requirements by qualified and certificated personnel;
3. Provision of requisite pilotage complements and other safety equipment, facilities, and channels necessary for safe navigation of vessels along her port channels with zero tolerance for accidents and delays;
4. Provision and sustenance of well-equipped and functional Search and Rescue (SAR) Centres operated by qualified and experienced personnel at strategic locations within her maritime domain in line with the global requirements;
5. Promotion of regional and international technical cooperation and collaboration on safety, security, and marine environmental protection issues for effective implementation and enforcement that will meet the expectations of the global maritime community;
6. Encouragement of best practices in the management and operation of maritime administration activities within her territorial waters; and
7. Empowerment of the designated agency with all the human and material resources required to make the inland waterways functional in a safe, secure, and environmentally clean manner for sustainable operations and management.
8. Implementation of the policy and strategy for continuous performance monitoring of Nigeria’s flag, port, and coastal state obligations 

3.5   Maritime Security

3.5.1   Existing Situation

The terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center, New York City USA on the 11th of September 2001, and subsequent attacks in Madrid, Paris, London, and Brussels, show how vulnerable transport infrastructure is. All transport modes now must find the right balance between providing commercial openness and effective security procedures. In maritime transport, the Federal Government has been active in recent years, legislating to improve ports and sea security to complement international efforts.

3.5.2 Policy Statement

The policy aims to enforce all customs laws, including oil theft, fishery, and immigration laws of Nigeria at sea, in addition to making charts and coordinating all national hydro-graphical surveys, the aim is to protect ships and ports from terrorism; it has incorporated the ISPS Code into Nigerian Law and extends its application to domestic operations of inland waterways.

3.5.3 Policy Goal 

1. Establish full maritime domain coverage through enhanced surveillance of the maritime environment including the Gulf of Guinea; 
2. Curb all maritime crimes within Nigeria’s maritime domain through the implementation of subsisting legislations; and
3. Ensure that the relevant Nigerian law enforcement agencies intervene in the protection of the sovereignty of the State and all infrastructure, installations, and equipment within the Maritime industry. The intervention shall be by the extant laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

3.5.4 Policy Objectives

1. Provide adequate infrastructure, platforms, and equipment for effective security operations;
2. Enhance maritime domain awareness for detection, deterrence, and interdiction of maritime crimes;
3. Prevent infringement and violation, as well as ensure the enforcement of Customs, Immigration, Fishery, and Pollution Laws and Regulations;
4. Protect the merchant shipping and sea lanes;
5. Preserve the exclusive right of exploration and exploitation of resources within the Nation’s EEZ and ABNJ;
6. Adequate funding of research institutions for exploration and exploitation;
7. Coordinate hydrographic surveys and marking of charts for Nigeria’s waters and the sub-region in general;
8. Prevent marine pollution including but not limited to dumping of toxic wastes in Nigerian waters;
9. Provide adequate funds for the construction of jetties, acquisition of patrol vessels and other equipment for maritime security; and
10. Encourage and attract patronage for effective utilization of existing shipbuilding and repair facilities such as the Naval Dockyard and Shipyard to promote the local shipbuilding industry.

 3.5.5 Policy Strategy

In collaboration with other relevant MDAs and allied institutions

1. Provide adequate support for the maintenance of maritime sovereignty and security and amend relevant laws to make surveillance and enforcement of marine activities more effective;
2. Promote national and international collaboration to prevent illegal activities and threats to maritime security as well as enforce national and international obligations within her territorial and inland waters;
3. Coordinate existing resources held by the various agencies with competencies in surveillance and enforcement to optimize their use and effectiveness; and
4. Support capacity-building initiatives to strengthen monitoring, surveillance, and enforcement capabilities within her maritime domain. 

3.6 Maritime Infrastructure Development 

3.6.1 Existing Situation

Maritime Infrastructure Development in Nigeria has been characterized by both opportunities and challenges. Nigeria has several major ports, including the Port of Lagos (Apapa and Tin Can Island), Port Harcourt, Onne, and Calabar. The Port of Lagos is the busiest and most significant in terms of cargo volume. Many of these ports suffer from congestion, inadequate facilities, and inefficiencies that lead to delays and increased costs for shipping and logistics. There have been ongoing efforts to expand and modernize existing ports. Nigeria has a vast network of rivers and waterways that are underutilized for transportation. 

3.6.2 Policy Statement

Develop and modernize port infrastructures to become a well-integrated multi-modal and inter-modal transportation system that is economically efficient, properly maintained, and environmentally sustainable.

3.6.3 Policy Goal

To develop maritime infrastructure for Nigeria's economic growth and competitiveness. 

3.6.4 Policy Objectives 

1. Upgrade and expand existing port facilities to accommodate larger vessels, improve cargo handling capacity, and reduce turnaround times;
2. Invest in the development of coastal and inland waterways to facilitate efficient transportation of goods, enhance trade connectivity, and promote regional development;
3. Encourage investment through PPPs to leverage private sector expertise and funding in the development and management of maritime infrastructure;
4. strengthen maritime safety and security measures to protect shipping routes, ports, and coastal areas from piracy, smuggling, and other illegal activities;
5. streamline regulatory processes and enhance the capacity of maritime authorities to ensure compliance with international standards and best practices;
6. improve Capacity Building and Human Resource Development; and
7. promote research and development.

3.6.5 Policy Strategy

In collaboration with other relevant MDAs and allied institutions

1. Assess current Infrastructure Inventory in the sector;
2. Coordinate an effective Policy Framework;
3. Investment and Financing (Funding Mechanisms, Public-Private Partnerships, and International Collaboration);
4. Infrastructure Development Plans (Port Expansion and Modernization, Development of Inland Ports)
5. Technology and Innovation (Adoption of digitization and smart technologies in port operations)
6. Monitoring and Evaluation (Performance Metrics, Regular Reviews and Feedback Mechanisms)
7. Capacity Building and Human Resources Development (Educational Programs and Skill Development).

3.7 Ports and Harbor Management           

3.7.1 Existing Situation

Ports and Harbor Management focuses on concession and privatization, tariff regulation, safety and security standards, environmental protection, cargo handling and storage, vessel traffic management, as well as dispute resolution mechanisms for port administration. In a bid to achieve seamless port management operation, an Integrated Port Management Information System (IPMIS) was introduced to implement a centralized revenue collection system. However, some challenges still exist such as port congestion and inadequate infrastructure at the ports. 

3.7.2 Policy Statement

To deliver efficient port services in a safe, secure, and conducive environment, which serves as a maritime hub for sustainable port operations and services in Africa. 

3.7.3 Policy Goal

To maintain the highest possible levels of safety and security for port operations as well as ensure high standards in the implementation of international port policies for efficient service delivery.

3.7.4 Policy Objectives

To serve as a pathway to international best practices for port operations in compliance with safety and security for shipping service delivery and to minimize disruptions in the flow of port traffic.       

3.7.5 Policy Strategy

In collaboration with other relevant MDAs and allied institutions

1. Develop a world-class seamless approach by providing modern port facilities, decongest ports, strengthen security, and adopt PPPs among others; and
2. Develop guidelines for Harbour expansion development and modernization for long-term planning towards infrastructure improvements and maintenance.

3.8 Inland Dry Ports

3.8.1 Existing Situation

In line with the government’s desire to improve the ease of doing business in the sector, it has provided port complementary capacities and brought shipping services close to the steps of shippers in the hinterland. This infrastructure developed through PPP has also created an enabling environment for private sector participation in the development and operation of the dry ports and related infrastructure in the country. 

3.8.2 Policy Statement

This policy seeks to bring shipping activities closer to shippers in the hinterland and increase cargo throughput as well as quick turnaround time as a catalyst for improved trade flows. 

3.8.3 Policy Goal

3.23.1 Create a comprehensive framework for the concession, development, operation, and management of Inland Dry Port (IDP) in the country. 

3.8.4 Policy Objectives

1. Improve the overall logistics and supply chain efficiency within Nigeria by providing integrated transport solutions that reduce congestion at seaports;
2. Support international trade by providing a reliable and efficient gateway for import and export activities, thereby promoting economic growth;
3. Develop the necessary infrastructure such as roads, rail links, and handling facilities to support the operations of the inland dry port;
4. Encourage industrial and economic development in the regions surrounding the inland dry port, creating jobs and fostering local businesses;
5. Promote the use of multimodal transport systems, ensuring seamless movement of goods between maritime and inland transport;
6. Decrease transportation costs for shippers and importers by providing a more efficient alternative to traditional shipping routes;
7. Streamline customs processes and procedures to facilitate faster clearance of goods, thereby reducing dwell times;
8. Promote sustainable transportation practices and minimize the carbon footprint associated with freight transportation;
9. Create a favorable investment climate to attract private sector participation in the development and operation of the dry port; and
10. Enhance the security of cargo transport through proper monitoring and control measures at the inland dry port.

3.8.5 Policy Strategy

In collaboration with other relevant MDAs and allied institutions

1. establish well-planned infrastructure, including customs facilities, warehousing, and transport connectivity to key markets;
2. engage with government agencies, logistics providers, shipping companies, and local businesses to create an integrated transport network;
3. ensure all operations comply with national and international regulatory frameworks governing trade and transport;
4. implement advanced technology systems for tracking, monitoring, and managing cargo to enhance efficiency and transparency;
5. overseeing operations, ensuring adherence to policies and regulations, and facilitating stakeholder collaboration;
6. actively engage with port users, industry associations, and local communities through regular consultations and feedback mechanisms. A stakeholder advisory committee will be formed to ensure that diverse interests are represented in the decision-making process; and
7.  promote the use of green technologies, efficient waste management practices, and initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions.

3.9 Vehicle Transit Areas        

3.9.1 Existing Situation

Despite efforts to develop its maritime infrastructure, including ports and terminals that function as vehicle transit areas for both commercial and passenger transport. Major ports like Apapa, Tin Can Island, and Onne Port are crucial for cargo handling and transportation, challenges such as inadequate road access to ports, congestion at port entry and exit points, and limited capacity for handling increasing maritime traffic, continue to inhibit the optimization of the huge potentials in Nigeria’s port and allied systems.

3.9.2 Policy Statement 

The policy creates the framework for effective management and improvement of vehicle transit areas within Nigeria's marine and blue economy sector, contributing to sustainable development and economic prosperity.

3.9.3 Policy Goal 

The goal is to enhance safety protocols and security measures for marine transport to protect both passengers and cargo to support economic development. 

3.9.4 Policy Objectives 

1. 1. Ensure the efficient, safe, and sustainable movement of goods and personnel within the marine and blue economy sector, thereby enhancing economic growth, environmental protection, and social well-being;
   2. Ensure implementation of stringent safety and security measures to protect life, property, and the environment within vehicle transit areas;
   3. Promote sustainable practices to minimize the environmental impact of vehicle transit operations;
   4. Enhance the efficiency of vehicle transit operations to reduce costs and improve the competitiveness of Nigeria's marine and blue economy sector;
   5. Ensure compliance with national and international regulations governing vehicle transit in marine and blue economy sectors;
   6.  Foster collaboration among government agencies, private sector players, and local communities to ensure the successful implementation of transit policies;

• ; and

• Facilitate economic development by improving access to markets and reducing logistical barriers in the marine and blue economy sector.

3.9.5 Policy Strategies 

In collaboration with other relevant MDAs and allied institutions

1. Develop and enforce safety and environmental standards for vehicles operating within marine transit areas;
2. Establish a robust monitoring and evaluation system to oversee compliance with transit policies;
3. Upgrade existing transit infrastructure and construct new facilities as needed to meet growing demands;
4. Foster public-private partnerships to mobilize resources and expertise for infrastructure development and maintenance;
5. Promote the adoption of green technologies and practices to reduce the carbon footprint of transit operations;
6. Conduct regular training and capacity-building programs for transit area personnel;
7. Engage local communities and stakeholders in the planning and implementation of transit policies;
8. Develop modern technologies and innovative solutions to optimize vehicle transit operations and enhance monitoring and control mechanisms;
9. Ensure capacity building and training programs to equip personnel with the necessary skills and knowledge for efficient transit operations;
10. Implement measures to prevent pollution and protect marine biodiversity in vehicle transit areas
11. Enhance data collection and analysis capabilities to inform policy decisions and improve transit operations; and
12. Collaborate with international organizations and neighboring countries to harmonize transit regulations and practices.

3.10 Ship Registration and Administration    

3.10.1 Existing Situation

Nigeria operates a closed ship registry system managed by NIMASA, allowing only vessels owned by Nigerian citizens or companies to be registered under the Nigerian flag. This system supports local ship ownership and strengthens the national maritime industry's compliance with international standards. The registration process demands proof of Nigerian ownership, adherence to safety standards, and proper documentation. Challenges such as bureaucratic inefficiencies, limited capacity, and compliance issues exist. Recent reforms, including digital platforms and streamlined procedures, aim to modernize and improve the efficiency and transparency of ship registration is ongoing.

3.10.2 Policy Statement

Establish an efficient, transparent, and effective ship registration and administration system that is digitally driven to promote the growth and competitiveness of the national maritime sector to make Nigeria a leading maritime nation in Africa.

3.10.3 Policy Goal

To create a digital ship registry that is transparent and efficient to streamline the processes that support the growth of Nigeria’s maritime industry, ensure compliance with national and international standards, and make Nigeria a leading maritime nation in Africa.

3.10.4 Policy Objective

To make Nigeria a leading maritime nation in Africa by improving its ship registration through a streamlining process, regulatory compliance, and enhancing transparency through digital solutions to strengthen regulatory capacity and support Nigerian-owned vessels.

3.10.5 Policy Strategy

In collaboration with other relevant MDAs and allied institutions

1. modernize ship registration by implementing a digital platform, updating regulatory frameworks, and improving transparency through clear guidelines and reporting. 
2.  invest in capacity building, expanding financial support for Nigerian shipowners, and engaging with industry stakeholders.

3.11 Inland Waterways Administration

 3.11.1 Existing Situation

Inland waterways transportation and administration plays a fundamental role in the socio-economic development of countries, especially in critical activities such as commuting, energy supply, goods allocation, and tourism, among others. Nigeria has the second largest length of inland waterways in Africa, approximately 10,000 kilometers of waterways, which are open for use at certain times of the year. While about 3, 000 kilometres are navigable.

3.11.2 Policy Statement

Establish the protocols to Improve and maintain ports, harbors, and waterways, to enhance their capacities for optimal use for appropriate commercial and recreational purposes. 

3.11.3 Policy Goal

To provide regulatory, economical, and operational leadership in the nation's inland waterways system and develop infrastructural facilities for an efficient intermodal transportation system in line with global best practices that are safe, seamless, and affordable.

3.11.4 Policy Objectives

1. Sustainably develop infrastructure on the inland waterways
2. Improve regulatory Framework for the development of inland waterways
3. Ensure environmental sustainability on inland waterways
4. Decentralize governance for local administration
5. Sustain drive for multimodal transport
6. Modernization and digital transformation of inland waterways  
7. Safety and Security Enhancement

3.11.5 Policy Strategy

In collaboration with other relevant MDAs and allied institutions, achieve;

3.11.5.1 Infrastructure Development

• Ports/Jetties Modernization and Expansion: Identify priority area inland water infrastructure like ports and jetties for modernization, focusing on the River Niger/Benue and Delta Rivers, where significant commercial activity takes place. Expand these ports/jetties to handle larger vessels and more cargo.
• Dredging and Maintenance: Conduct regular dredging of major waterways to ensure that channels are deep enough for larger barges. This will involve modern dredging technologies and sustainable methods to minimize environmental impact.
• Investment Promotion: Create friendly investment avenues to attract both foreign and domestic investors. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) can be promoted to fund large-scale infrastructure upgrades.
• Cargo Handling Improvements: Implement modern cargo handling equipment at ports and jetties to reduce loading/unloading times. Automation of processes like container handling can also be explored.

3.11.5.2 Regulatory Framework

• Regulation Streamlining: Simplify regulatory processes for infrastructure development and private-sector involvement. Create clear and transparent procedures for obtaining permits, licenses, and approvals for inland waterway projects.
• Institutional Strengthening: Enhance the capacity of

THE GENERAL MULTIPURPOSE CARD(GMPC) 

We are meeting one of our core mandates by introducing a new card program  with multiple use cases and payment functionality for various social and financial  services. 

⮚ The new GMPC scheme layered with payment and verifiable Identity as the  foundation, will in various ways address the demand for physical and digital  evidential identity in any location with or without connectivity.  

⮚ This enables cardholders to prove their identity, access multiple government  services and facilitate social and financial inclusion of disenfranchised  

Nigerians. 

Improved Economic Stability 

⮚ It will also empower citizens and encourage increased participation in nation 

building. 

GMPC ENABBLES ECONOMIC AND FINANCIAL INCLUSION Access to Financial Services3 

OUR STRATEGIC ROADMAP FOR GMPC ISSUANCE 

• The strategic roadmap of our DG/CEO is to revitalize the card program with the issuance of  GMPC scheme with multiple variants to deal with different use cases in line with Mr President’s  directive on the mandatory use of NIN.  

⮚ The Implementation is currently at advanced stage focused on the following use cases: 

✔ Use Case 1: Payments ✔ Use Case 2: Government to  

people programs(G2P) 

✔ Others: Optional Senior Citizens  

Centre programs, ECOWAS National  

Biometric Identity Travel Card (ENBIC)  

in collaboration with NIS, etc.4 

BENEFITS TO CITIZENS 

Enhanced Financial Inclusion 

The new identity program opens up  

access to social and financial services  

for all especially the unbanked and  

underbanked populations.  

Evidential Means for Identification The need to have a trusted and verifiable  identity means citizens can now be  

uniquely identified digitally with evidence 

Three-in-one Value 

This is now eased by having just one card  layered with both their identity, payment  and accessing social benefits 

Capable for Cross-Border Transactions Capability for cross-border payments  

enabling consumers to make  

international transactions efficiently  

Offline Capabilities 

This will allow transactions to be carried  out in areas with limited network  coverage and address literacy issues with  fingerprints 

Access To Government  

Services 

Citizens can now benefit directly from  the government e.g social, financial, and  economic intervention programs 

Convenience and  

Interoperable 

Consumers can make secure transactions  at various points of sale, online  

merchants, and ATMs with verifiable  identity. 

Social Intervention 

Palliative, transportation, grants, etc. 5 

BENEFITS TO GOVERNMENT 

6

KEY SCHEME FEATURES 

• Biometric authentication, such as fingerprint and picture, to aid identity verification within any location  including areas with limited infrastructure. 
• Longer years validity and easy requisition from multiple channels 
• Offline capability ensures transactions can be carried out in any location including areas with limited  network coverage 
• Banking details at back of card with chip and pin and contactless functionalities • Support: Cash, digital tokens, virtual wallets, and eNaira 
• Function either as a debit and prepaid card for both banked and unbanked individuals on AfriGo rail • Includes Nigeria quick response code (NQR) with National Identification Number 
• Support for multiple wallets: the ability to process unique citizens across multiple programs via the 32- wallet application on the card  
• Interoperable with existing payment system: ATMs, POS, Mobile Apps, and web-based payment  7 

gateways

USE CASE 1: PAYMENT 

• The Federal Government of Nigeria, in collaboration with NIMC, CBN, and NIBSS's AFRIGOPAY Financial Services arm, is introducing payment and identity solution for local and international card transactions.
• AfriGO, a domestic card scheme by the CBN, will power this card issued by participating banks. These cards

will be purely be based on user request. 

8

CRITICAL CHALLENGES IN THE PREVIOUS PROGRAMS  ADDRESSED 

⮚ Wide distribution and acceptance of the National ID cards from multiple channels- bank  branches etc. 

⮚ Possibility of personalization and fulfillment across the country instead of one perso plant. ⮚ Easy Requisition and multiple points of request and delivery 

⮚ Free Choice of banks and pick-up location. 

⮚ Your money and Identity in one card with immediate access to government services. ⮚ Reduce FX related collaterals on the foreign card schemes 

9

USE CASE 2: GOVERNMENT TO PEOPLE  

PROGRAMS(G2P)

This use case will be enabled for Identity and all  

government intervention and services across  

multiple Ministries, Departments, and Agencies  

(MDAs). Among other capabilities and  

functionalities, it will be enabled for the compliance  

with the EMV/ ID operational & security standards.  

Currently, we are at advanced discussion in the last  

1 year with 20 MDAs and 6 states on the use of the  

G2P cards with two ready for lunch in January 

How to get the Cards: To be issued based on the  

government program. This will be purely program 

driven. 

10 

CRITICAL CHALLENGES IN THE PREVIOUS PROGRAMS  ADDRESSED 

✔Low delivery cost 

✔Offline real-time capability addressing infrastructure challenges  nationwide. 

✔Lower social, economic, and financial access  

✔Verifiable identification no matter the location 

✔Use of fingerprints for accessing services to address literacy issues 

✔Real access through electronic money and tokens, and NOT just  cash. 

✔Ensures government intervention achieves its objective, with no  chance for deviation 

✔Cheaper card and possibility for instant Issuance 

11

ROLL-OUT  PLAN FOR  Q1 2025 

1. Enable the G2P ecosytem to meet the urgent needs for  authentication and a secure platform for government  services such as Palliatives The focus is on the  

Vulnerable Nigerians funded by the current government  intervention programs. 

2. Activate the bank-enabled National ID in the next 2  months to meet the needs of the middle and upper  segments who will pay on request for these cards 
3. Provide virtual(digital)versions of all cards for those who  may want such cards for display but with limited  

functionalities or purely photo IDs without any use case. 12

HOW TO GET  

THE CARD 

13

PORTAL FUNCTIONALITIES REQUEST CHANNELS  

Fresh/New card  Request 

Card Reissuance  Request 

Card Deactivation  Request 

Card Status Request

SELF 

SERVICE  

PORTAL 

REQUEST  

CHANNELS 

APPOINTED  

AGENTS/MDAs 

WALK IN – 

NIMC OR  

BANK BRANCH 

ONLINE REQUISITION PORTAL 

This is an online request portal that allows NIN holders irrespective of their  locations(local & international) to: 

✔ Initiate a card request 

✔Select their preferred card type, bank, and pick-up location. 

Additional features include 

✔ Dashboard for the banks and ERCs to process and monitor requests. ✔Audit trail for NIMC to monitor the card delivery status, generate reports, and  perform other administrative roles. 

✔ Integration into online request channels of all participating banks & MDAs. ✔Routed to the NIMC Card Lifecycle Management System on card pick up. 

15

CARD STATUS

A feature to track the status of submitted requests online by applicants 

When application has been  

processed by the bank 

When application  

has been  

submitted 

When NIMC  has processed  ID details 

When PERSO  company is  producing card

Card pick up notification to  NIMC CLMS & Bank  

When card is  

ready for pick  

up 

POINTS OF NOTIFICATION 

16 

HIGH-LEVEL DEPLOYMENT PLAN 

Implementation 

• Implementation commenced in January 
• Dependent deliverables from NIMC were  completed in April 
• Integrations with critical stakeholders such  as NIBSS/CBN completed 

Press Release 

03 

04 

Go-Live 

• Go live and launch  activities- January 2025 
  

Joint Press release to the  

02 

dailies Bank/MDA Engagements 

01 

• Joint Conference with the Banks – May 
• Agreement of Pilot banks/MDAs for rollout/Integration- May Nov 
• Finalize integration with banks and MDAs and issue pilot  

cards - June- Dec, 2024 

17 

CONCLUSION

The New National E-ID Card with Payment  

and Social Services represents a  

groundbreaking integration of identity  

verification, financial transactions, and  

CONCLUSION 

access to social and government services to 

enhance security, efficiency, and inclusivity.  

We seek the cooperation in realizing this  

potential for the collective benefit of society. 

18 

Let us work together to enable Nigerians and legal residents participate in the growing  digital economy in a verifiable and scure manner as we fulfill our core mandates.

19 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 

20

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 

21

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 

Credit NIMC PR

Introduction and Overview

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) plays a pivotal role in maintaining the National Identity Database (NIDB) and ensuring that Nigerians are securely enrolled and recognized for various public and private services. However, prior to the appointment of Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote as the Director General (DG) and Chief Executive Officer of NIMC on August 24, 2023, the commission faced numerous challenges that hampered its effectiveness in delivering on its mandate.

1.1 Some of the key challenges included:

• Slow Enrollment Processes: Limited capacity and outdated infrastructure significantly slowed down the NIN registration process, causing long waiting times for citizens at enrollment centers across the country.
• Identity Fraud and Security Concerns: Widespread reports of identity theft, extortion by unscrupulous agents, and the proliferation of fraudulent websites claiming access to NIMC’s database created a critical need for better cybersecurity measures.
• Backlog and Operational Inefficiencies: Several operational bottlenecks, including an outstanding two-year backlog for payments to Front-End Partners (FEPs), administrative inefficiencies, and inadequate staff management, undermined the commission’s ability to serve the public effectively.
• Public Skepticism and Low Confidence: Due to suspicious cases of data security breaches and poor service delivery, there was a general lack of public confidence in the NIMC, reducing the adoption of NIN as a critical identification tool.

In response to these challenges, Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, upon assuming office, immediately took decisive actions to revitalize the commission by focusing on a five-point agenda aimed at addressing these key issues. Her leadership has not only restored order but also laid the foundation for a more effective and transparent NIMC. This report outlines the DG's key achievements in her first year, mapping them to the five-point agenda that has driven her transformative leadership.

• Achievements in Line with the Five-Point Agenda

2.1 Increase Enrollment

Before her appointment, NIMC faced significant delays and inefficiencies in the NIN enrollment process due to insufficient equipment and an overwhelmed system. Many citizens experienced long queues and a lack of access to enrollment centers, further exacerbated by unregulated third-party agents who extorted citizens.

2.1.1 Achievements

• Deployment of over 800 mobile enrollment devices: This strategic initiative has expanded the enrollment capacity across Nigeria, helping to register an additional over 13 million Nigerians, bringing the total number of registered NINs from 100 million to 113, 163, 868 as at 21st Nov. 2024.
• Revalidation of Front-End Partner (FEP) licenses: This has ensured that only certified partners manage the enrollment process, reducing fraudulent activities and streamlining operations.
• Creation of territorial offices: This move has enhanced the oversight of staff and operations, ensuring smoother administrative processes and more effective management of enrollment activities across the country.
• Launch of the Self-Service Mobile App and Web Modification App: These self-service platforms allow citizens to update their records and enroll in a more user-friendly, accessible way without the need to visit enrollment centers.

2.1.2 Impact 

These steps have significantly reduced long waiting times, increased access to enrollment services nationwide, and brought the NIMC closer to achieving universal enrollment coverage.

2.2 Harmonization and Integration of Data Across All Agencies

A key priority for the DG was to address the fragmented approach to identity management across various government agencies, which led to duplication and inefficiencies in data handling. 

2.2.1 Achievements

• Successful integration of NIN with the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS): This ensures that immigration processes are directly linked with the NIN database, enabling seamless verification for passport issuance.
• Inter-agency collaboration with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS): This integration supports data harmonization, making the NIN the foundational identifier for tax and financial records.
• Technological upgrades: The NIMS Middleware has been improved to automate date of birth modifications and introduce new workflows, including amputee verifications, to enhance service efficiency.
• Monitoring and evaluation systems: These systems have been implemented across enrollment centers to understand challenges faced by staff and enrollees, ensuring better data integration and management.

2.2.2 Impact 

These initiatives have significantly improved inter-agency cooperation, enhanced data security, and established the NIN as a critical tool for identity verification across multiple sectors.

2.3 Issuance and Activation of GMPC/Use of Applets

The issuance of the General Multipurpose Card (GMPC) had stalled in previous years, limiting its use in facilitating financial inclusion and identity verification.

2.3.1 Achievements

• Relaunch of the GMPC: The DG reactivated the issuance of the GMPC and included applets that enable secure payments and access to services directly via the card.
• Applets Integration for payments: With the inclusion of applets on the GMPC, citizens can now perform financial transactions more easily, enhancing their access to financial services.
• Expansion of diaspora enrollment centers: Over 200 new centers have been established globally, this will further ensure that Nigerians abroad can also access the GMPC and other identity services.
• NIMC Mobile Wallet ID: A significant milestone is the introduction of the NIMC Mobile Wallet ID, a cutting-edge mobile wallet app designed to allow residents to manage their digital identities. This app enables residents to scan and store their physical IDs as digital copies, customize information shared with enterprises, perform biometric (facial) authentication, and manage their IDs across multiple devices.

2.3.2 Impact 

These measures have provided Nigerians with a robust tool for identity verification and financial transactions, improving access to essential services.

2.4 Access to Services to Aid Financial Inclusion Through G2P Payments

Limited access to financial services had been a significant issue, especially in rural areas and among marginalized groups. Prior to the DG’s appointment, the NIN’s potential as a tool for financial inclusion had not been fully realized.

2.4.1 Achievements

• Rice Palliative Initiative Using NIN: In response to the economic challenges faced by many Nigerians, the DG initiated a rice palliative distribution program using the NIN for verification and allocation, ensuring fair and transparent access to relief packages.
• Student Loans Initiative with NELFUND: The NIMC played a pivotal role in the implementation of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), where the NIN was used as a primary identifier for students applying for loans. This ensures that loans are allocated to deserving candidates and enhances financial inclusion for students.
• Seamless Verification Services: The DG also ensured the availability of seamless verification services for financial institutions, helping to bring more Nigerians into the formal financial system. The introduction of the High Availability NIMC Verification Service (HA-NVS) further streamlined access to identity data for service providers, bolstering financial inclusion.

2.4.2 Impact 

These achievements have directly contributed to financial inclusion, especially in remote areas, by ensuring that NIN is linked to essential financial services.

2.5 Increase Public and Private Sector Participation in Using NIN as the Foundational Data for Identification

Before the DG’s tenure, there was a lack of widespread enforcement and public awareness regarding the mandatory use of NIN, limiting its application in both public and private sectors.

2.5.1 Achievements

• Enforcement of NIN for SIM Registration: The NIMC worked closely with telecoms to enforce the NIN-SIM linkage, ensuring that all mobile phone users are registered with their NIN, reducing fraud and improving national security.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Through aggressive monitoring, evaluation, and awareness campaigns, the DG has significantly increased the public’s understanding of the importance of NIN as a foundational identity document.
• Private sector engagement: The NIMC has collaborated with various private entities, including FAAN, TLS, VFS, and other organizations, to increase the use of NIN in their operations.
• Collaborations with State Governments: The DG worked closely with state governments to integrate the NIN with their residents' registration efforts, ensuring a more comprehensive database for national planning and service delivery.
• Increased Awareness and Enforcement of NIN Usage: The DG's tenure has seen aggressive campaigns to raise public awareness on the importance of the NIN as a foundational ID for accessing government services. She also ensured strict enforcement of the mandatory use of NIN across various sectors, enhancing the credibility and utility of the National Identity Database (NIDB).

2.5.2 Impact 

These efforts have greatly increased the public and private sector’s reliance on NIN for identity verification, positioning it as a central element in Nigeria’s national security and financial systems.

• Notable Security and Anti-Corruption Initiatives

One of the most significant accomplishments under Engr. Abisoye’s leadership has been the enhanced focus on security and combating corruption within NIMC and its processes.

3.1 Achievements

• Crackdown on fraud: Following reports of extortion by fraudulent agents and illegal websites like Goverify.com, Humanityverify.com, and Trustyverify.com, the DG partnered with the National Security Adviser (NSA) and the Nigerian Police Force - National Cyber Crime Center (NPF-NCCC) to launch a coordinated operation. Over 30 arrests were made, with recovered items including laptops, fake NIN slips, GPS flash drives, and NIN forms.
• Deployment of enforcement teams: NIMC, along with security agents, shut down unauthorized cybercafes and agents operating without proper licenses.
• Improved data security: Key initiatives such as the Key Life Cycle Management System (KLMS) are set to strengthened NIMC’s defense against data breaches and identity fraud.
• Payment of outstanding monies: Settling the backlog of outstanding payments to FEPs has improved trust and cooperation between NIMC and its partners.

3.2 Impact

These efforts have significantly reduced fraudulent activities and improved the security of the National Identity Database, restoring public confidence.

• In Progress and Future Plans

While the DG has achieved significant milestones, there are several ongoing projects and future plans aimed at further strengthening NIMC.

4.1 In Progress

• ABIS Upgrade Project: Currently underway, this project aims to increase the capacity of the existing biometric database to meet the ever-growing population of the federation, and also to enhance the biometric identity verification systems, including the deployment of new HPE servers and software for faster, more secure processing.
• Middleware Upgrades: Ongoing enhancements to the middleware systems will further streamline enrollment and record modification processes.
• Expansion of service points: Plans are in motion to increase the number of enrollment centers both within Nigeria and across the diaspora to meet growing demand.

4.2 Future Plans:

• Integration with more government services: Efforts are underway to ensure that the NIN is fully integrated into more public services, making it indispensable for every citizen.
• 24-Hour Service Delivery: The commission will be working to ensure the continuous access to NIMC services round the clock, further improving service delivery.
• Advanced Identity Verification Technologies: NIMC will continue its strides in the adoption of more advanced technologies including AI to further enhance its identity verification systems, making them more secure and efficient.

• Conclusion

In just one year, Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote has led a transformative overhaul of the National Identity Management Commission. Through her visionary leadership and the implementation of the five-point agenda, the NIMC has made remarkable strides in improving enrollment processes, strengthening its data security infrastructure, integrated more seamlessly with other government agencies, and ensuring the widespread adoption of NIN as the foundational identity document in Nigeria. The ongoing and future initiatives set the stage for further growth, efficiency, and trust in Nigeria’s identity management system. The DG’s achievements reflect her commitment to making the NIMC a world-class identity management agency, contributing to national security, financial inclusion, and improved public service delivery.

In recent years, the need for a new approach to Policing in Nigeria has become impossible to ignore. Many Communities feel disconnected from the Centralised Police Force, and this lack of connection leads to delays in responding to Local Crime, ineffective Law Enforcement, and, ultimately, a deepening gap in trust between the Police and the Public.

The good news? There’s a promising solution: creating a more Localised Police Force. In fact, we’re already seeing positive results from similar Models in Nigeria and around the World.

One of the most striking examples comes from the United States. Like Nigeria, the U.S. operates as a Federal Republic, where power is shared between a Central Government and Individual States. In the U.S., Police operate at different levels—Federal, State, and Local—so Local Police Departments in Cities and Towns can adapt their Approach to the specific needs of their Communities.

Officers who live and work within their Communities understand the unique challenges and are better equipped to handle them. This close connection often results in faster response times and more effective Crime prevention. So, if a large Country like the U.S. can make this work, could Nigeria benefit from a similar approach?

Canada, too, shows us the power of combining Centralised and Localised Policing. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police handle issues on a national scale, while local police focus on community-specific needs. This combination provides both broad oversight and flexibility, allowing Local Officers to address issues that matter most to their Communities. Canada’s success in managing a Federal Structure with both National and Local Police Forces suggests that Countries like Nigeria, which also have diverse Populations and Needs, could gain from adopting a similar Model. And while it’s useful to look Abroad, we don’t even have to go that far to see a successful example of Localised Policing.

Right here in Nigeria, we have Amotekun, the Western Nigeria Security Network. Amotekun was launched by South-Western States to handle Security Issues that the National Police had struggled with. Since its creation, Amotekun has helped reduce Crime in the Region, from responding to Kidnappings to tackling Armed Robbery. This shows that when Officers are closer to the Communities they serve, they can respond more quickly and work more efficiently because they know the Local Terrain, Culture, and People. So, if Amotekun is already showing success, what if we expanded this Idea Nationwide?

One of Nigeria’s biggest challenges is its diversity. With over 250 Ethnic Groups, many Languages, and varied Cultural Norms, a single, Centralised Police Force cannot possibly understand or address the unique needs of every Community. Localised Forces would bridge this gap by recruiting Officers from within each Community—People who know the Language, understand the Culture, and can relate to the People. This would build trust, making it easier for Communities to work with Law Enforcement to solve Crimes and keep Neighborhoods safe. But this isn’t just about better Policing; it’s about fairness and accountability, too.

Imagine this: a Loved One is kidnapped, and you rush to the Police for help. Instead of immediate action, you’re told that you’ll need to pay extra for them to trace the Kidnapper’s Phone. In Nigeria, Families in emergencies often face this heartbreaking situation. Localising Police Services could address this Issue. A more Community-Focused Approach could ensure that Resources are available when needed, without additional charges, because Officers would be more connected and accountable to the People they serve. So, wouldn’t a Localised Police Force be a step toward a more just and reliable System?

A Localised Police Force would also make Officers more accountable. When Police Officers are from the Area they serve, they’re likely to be held responsible by their Neighbors. This kind of connection can make Officers feel more interested in the Community’s well-being and can help reduce Cases of Police Misconduct. When Officers know the People and the everyday struggles of their Community, they’re more likely to act with integrity. Doesn’t that sound like a Model we’d want for Nigeria?

Some might argue that having one unified Police Force is what the Nigerian Constitution requires. But there’s room for interpretation here. The Constitution emphasises protecting the Security and Welfare of all Nigerians, which means finding the best ways to do that. In practice, States already employ Vigilante Groups and Community Security Outfits for Local Issues. Amotekun’s success is proof that State-led Security can work. So, if we’re already seeing positive results, why not formalise and expand this Idea for an even greater impact?

Localised Policing could also shift the focus from reacting to Crime to preventing it. When Officers work closely with their Communities, they can develop Programmes to address the root causes of Crime. This means not just solving existing problems, but stopping new ones from starting. Isn’t that the kind of proactive, preventive Policing Nigeria deserves?

Ultimately, creating a Localised Police Force in Nigeria could strengthen Public Safety, build Community Trust, and make People feel more secure in their Homes. My experience at the Citizen’s Academy, hosted by a Police Department in the East Bay Area, truly highlighted the importance and impact of a Community-Focused Approach to Policing. And with successful examples from Countries like the U.S., Canada, and our very own Amotekun, it’s clear that Local Policing isn’t just a Theory—it’s a proven solution.

Given Nigeria’s Federal Structure, much like that of the U.S., adopting a Localised Policing Model is not only feasible but may be key to fostering a safer, more connected Nation. Isn’t it time we bring safety closer home?