The Nation Newspaper

Category: Discourse

  • Panteka market: Governor Sani sets the pace again

    Panteka market: Governor Sani sets the pace again

    By Tanko Ahmed

    Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has never left anyone in doubt that he has come to make an unprecedented difference in the governance of the state. A tested and impeccable leader, Governor Sani is a politician that has always meant well for his people. This he has brought to bear in his leadership style ever since he assumed office a year ago. At all times and in all situations he leads by example.

    Many people may wonder what is at stake in Kaduna at the moment. On 13th May, just a few days ago, Governor Sani surprised everyone including his closest critics when he performed the groundbreaking official foundation laying ceremony for the famous Old Panteka Market Development Association in the state. The OPMDA project is indeed the joint initiative of the state government with the traders and business men and women who constitute the OPMDA.

    At the official ceremony which the Governor considered the major breakthrough by his government to curtail poverty in the state, and create more avenues for financial growth for artisans, the governor said, “Today, before this enthusiastic and cheering mammoth crowd of key stakeholders, members of the Old Panteka Market Development Association (OPMDA), government officials and Kaduna citizens, I performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of remodeled Panteka Market which is a joint initiative of Kaduna State government and OPMDA”. As it was expected the crowd could not help but to applaud him.

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    It is interesting that with this take-off ceremony, the government has pledged to make the new market place like a communal settlement where all modern amenities and facilities will be provided. The governor, in his usual affable, humanistic gesture and tenacity of purpose has included in the master plan of this place, modern clinics and hospitals, fire stations, outdoor public toilets, all infused with modern facilities. He also plans to provide incinerators, two transformers meant to make electricity handy. In addition, the new market will boast of well-equipped security post and personnel, including places of worship and ICT centres

    All these are signs of a man who has vowed to ensure that peace and progress reign supreme in his domain. Kaduna State is noted to be the centre of commerce and civilization in the north and it will now begin to attract attention to itself once more. This is so because having been in public glare for so long and having been a populist leader, Senator Uba Sani has eyes for the best for his people. Already tagged the working and performing governor, people have begun to sense the magnitude of his expansive and progressive programmes intended to touch lives and make the desired change and impact in the state.

    Located within the precincts of Tudun Wada area of Kaduna metropolis, when completed the market will serve as a major beacon for skills acquisition. It will not only create thousands of new jobs, the citizens will equally key into it to learn new areas of job creation and generation. Since skills acquisition predominates the employment market especially in developed worlds today, what the governor has done will be a huge and futuristic investment for all and sundry. The concept does not only benefit Kaduna people. It goes far afield to the surrounding states. For instance, Adamu Sunday, from Nasarawa State applauds this innovative project. According to him, “Let Governor Sani take the bull by the horns. We need purposeful and pragmatic leaders in the north. And this is one of those people-oriented programmes that we have always yearned for”.

    When the market becomes the largest technology hub in the north, obviously lots of jobless youths will immediately key in to be useful in many ways. Hawkers will be employed. Artisans will find something to do. Carpenters and vulcanizers and mechanics will find workshops to ply their trades. So also doctors and nurses will be engaged. At the same time, Kaduna State government will employ teachers and more fire fighters and local vigilante to keep the place and ensure no lives will be lost.

    It is an intriguing and fascinating arrangement because Kaduna people will once more gather their esteem and momentum as the leading state in the north. All along, Kaduna has been a pacesetter in all areas of political and economic and social lives of the people. By ensuring the completion of this project, more traders and even idle youths will have every reason to abandon idleness and be fully enterprising. A man, who is engaged with something lucrative, has no time for crime or mischief. Thus, the economic revival and the renewal of the state will be better assured, appraised and appreciated.

    Now, by acknowledging the roles played by some prominent people like Professor Idris Bugajie of the National Board of Technical Education and others, the governor shows that this project has the overall consent and imprint of the people both in high and low cadres of the society. This goes with one proverb that says ‘if you know that good thing is not good, then let your wife bear a toad for you as a child’. See, now this can be a contrast with the good meant to smoothen the psyche of the people.  Kaduna State is on the move again. That is why it is said that good soup is made possible with money. When a governor knows that the resources available to him are for the good of all, this is the sort of giant project that he executes.

    Also with the training of artisans by the centre which will issue them certificates on graduation, it will be easier to move on ahead into the wider world. This is one reason kudos should go to the Nigerian Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) for consenting to be a part of this noble and innovative idea to modernize Kaduna State.

    •Ahmed sent in the peace from Zaria

  • 86 under bridge apartments and heroic drive of Sanwo-Olu to sanitise Lagos

    86 under bridge apartments and heroic drive of Sanwo-Olu to sanitise Lagos

    By Deji Adegoke

    Lagos has always been the dream city of many Nigerians from all parts of the country.

    The former capital of Nigeria, which is the economic powerhouse of the country is seen as the most prosperous state where dreams and aspirations for economic and social wellbeing can be attained within a short period of time. This explains the daily influx of people from all parts of Nigeria into Lagos on a daily basis. In the days of yore, many left their homesteads and villages to seek proverbial green pastures.

     Success stories abound on how many came with few clothes in polythene bags stripped on the shoulders later became business tycoons and owners of mega businesses that have scaled globally. The undeniable fortunes of Lagos became the lot of many who applied themselves diligently to their trades, calling and occupations, thereby entrenching the belief that the only place to make big financial wealth is Lagos.

    This further heightened mass exodus from other states to Lagos as news filtered back home on how many who were hitherto without prospects, hit the gold in Lagos.

     This trajectory that dated back pre-colonial Nigeria, still persists today with its attended socio-economic, security and infrastructure challenges.

    Read Also: Enilolobo urges Nigerians to support Tinubu’s effort to revamp economy

    Lagos is the state with the smallest land mass, yet has the highest verifiable population.

    This puts strains on the infrastructure of the state, as the government strives to provide services to cater for many who have chosen the state as their destination of abode.

    Public utilities and amenities are constantly under pressure from the high usage, even as the government intensified provision of mass housing, schools, hospitals, intermodal public transportation systems, markets, and also deepened rural development by opening up new towns in hinterlands and suburbs to accommodate more people.

     Despite all these developmental efforts of the Lagos State government, some migrated to Lagos to constitute social nuisance, putting up shanties and erecting makeshift shelters in prohibited public spaces, thereby contravening extant environmental and physical planning laws of Lagos State. Some of the categories of these people were those bursted by the State Government under the Dolphin Estate Bridge, Ikoyi. Strangely, 86 rooms were erected under the bridge where tenants reportedly paid N250,000 annual rent.

    The brazen impunity of some unscrupulous elements who turned a critical public infrastructure into commercial apartments shocked many Lagosians, and Nigerians at large.

     The Lagos State Commissioner of Environment and Water Resources, Hon. Tokunbo Wahab, who led the raid to dislodge the illegal under bridge occupants disclosed to the media that, “18 individuals squatting illegally under the bridge leading from Dolphin Estate were arrested yesterday 30th of April, 2024 by the officials from the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps” “A total number of 86 rooms, partitioned into 10×10 and 12×10, and a container used for different illegal activities were discovered under the Dolphin Estate Bridge.

     “They have all been removed by the enforcement team of the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources.” Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration deserves commendations for ensuring environmental sanity across Lagos.

    This also includes the removal of illegal structures on darinages right of way. The highbrow Lekki corridor came under spotlight recently when Lagos State government moved in to enforce compliance with extant laws. Many buildings without approval impeding the flow of drainage water were removed. In fact, many reportedly blocked water channels completely, thereby putting the entire residents of the area, and adjourning communities under increased risk of flooding.

    What any responsible government would have done is what Governor Sanwo-Olu administration had done by protecting the collective rights of citizens to life against protecting a few members of the society who have chosen not to abide by the laws. Expectedly, like those affected at the Lekki area, emotions ran high recently when the long arm of the law caught up with owners of structures built on the set-back of system one drainage at the Mende Community in Kosofe Local Government area.

    The skewed narrative painting the government as being insensitive and banal allegations of ethnic targeting fell flat when facts emerged that some of the landlords of that area didn’t have the government approval to build.

     The system one water channel is crucial for many communities in Ikeja and Kosofe local government areas. To mitigate potential risks of devastating flooding, the Lagos Ministry of Environment and Water Resources took the decisive action to prevent loss of life and property during intense rainfall, especially in vulnerable areas. On the allegation that they were not duly served, the Commissioner said, “ They claimed they were not served notices. They were served.

    They had come for meetings on several occasions,” “The residents’ association had met with the permanent secretary, Engineer Mahmood Adekunle Adegbite on several occasions in my office. “So, on what basis were they having meetings if they were not served?

     “The first notices were served on them in 2021. Each of the property owners on system 1 was duly written that they should remove their encumbrances because they were sitting on system 1. “If we are removing these properties for personal gains it becomes a different narrative entirely. This is for overriding public interest to avoid the flooding of the whole of mainland. He added that , “ We also visited Mende Villa, Maryland, where the developer initially claimed there was a drainage approval on the property.

    The directors who were in the know of what transpired at the time were invited to speak on the issue but confirmed that the developer was given temporary and conditional approval to leave a 20m setback from the edge of System 1 but he encroached on the setback thereby obstructing the flow of rainwater. “However, by the magnanimity of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, the Right of Way was approved to be reduced to 100m from 140m and spread on a 60/40 basis (60 Mende/40 Ogudu) instead of the initial 140m sitting on the Mende side.

     “The instruction to immediately continue the removal of all structures on the alignment has been given to the enforcement team after the 1st notice to remove was served on them in 2021 and the last notice was served in November 2023 after the meeting with the stakeholders”.

     These facts speak for themselves. In the face of global warming and climate change, the government needs to be decisive in ensuring that we are all safe. All the actions are geared towards ensuring protection of lives and properties.

    As a compassionate government, announcements had been made about possible compensations to some categories of people that were affected during the removal of illegal structures and eviction of squatters from public spaces across Lagos.

    •Adegoke writes from Lagos

  • How to  handle Parkinson’s disease , by experts 

    How to  handle Parkinson’s disease , by experts 

    There is a need for an integrated care model to ensure timely and effective treatment of Parkinson’s disease,  Special Adviser to the Governor of Lagos State, Dr.  Kemi Ogunyemi has said.

    She spoke at the second annual symposium organized  by Adewunmi Desalu Parkinson’s Foundation (ADPF). The symposium is  to advance dialogue and initiatives for Parkinson’s disease care and awareness in Nigeria. It was held at ADPF Centre, Surulere, Lagos.

    The event, held under the theme: “Educating, Engaging, and Empathizing: Building a Supportive Ecosystem for Parkinson’s Awareness and Care,” brought together key stakeholders, experts, and advocates to advance dialogue and initiatives for Parkinson’s disease care and awareness in Nigeria.

    The symposium marks a significant milestone in advancing dialogue and initiatives for Parkinson’s disease care and awareness in Nigeria.

    The sessions covered  a spectrum of topics, from innovations in Parkinson’s care to community empowerment and fundraising efforts.

    Read Also: Diri says mass housing a priority in Bayelsa

      Mrs.  Ogunyemi stressed the pivotal role of governmental support in advancing Parkinson’s awareness and care.

    She advocated for an integrated care model to ensure timely and effective treatment, emphasizing collaboration across healthcare levels.

    She said: “There’s a need for an integrated care model which will consolidate services across different levels of Nigeria’s healthcare system from primary care physicians who first see symptoms to specialists like neurologists who manage more complex aspects of the disease.”

    Panel sessions delved into innovations in Parkinson’s care within Nigeria’s healthcare system and the significance of community engagement beyond medical interventions.

    Experts highlighted the importance of multidisciplinary care models and inclusive initiatives in combating stigma and fostering holistic

    Consultant Physician/Neurologist,  representing the Lagos State Health Service Commission, Dr. Oladunni Abiodun emphasized collaborative efforts among government agencies, private organizations, and NGOs to enhance Parkinson’s care and support services in Nigeria.

    She highlighted the Lagos State Health Scheme, offering affordable healthcare access to citizens.

  • A rebirth for arts, culture, creative economy

    A rebirth for arts, culture, creative economy

    By Dr. Deji Ayoola

    Beyond a seeming cosmetic spruce-up, the new Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, FMACCE, actually benefits from a fundamental vision tweak and structural reconceptualization from which the impactful achievements it has recorded within a year flow.

    A baby of the “Renewed Hope Agenda” and rigorous visioning by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s new Nigeria that works, FMACCE, under the circumspect guidance of the youthful minister, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, has chalked up some key achievements as of Q1 in 2024, less than a year since she gracefully set sail at the instance of the President.

    “As a nation, we are trying to diversify from oil, and the creative economy is a strong alternative as the new oil because the future of the country depends on the creative sector.

    “Nigerian creatives all over the world are doing great things and that is why our ministry is set to be a beacon of creativity, innovation, and inclusivity,” the sure-footed lawyer, Musawa, recently told her audience in a keynote address at the opening of the 2024 management retreat for the ministry workers and its agencies in Abuja.

    Cutting to the heart of her mandate, she further stated that, “We play a critical role in shaping the creative and cultural landscape of our nation while promoting and preserving Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.

    “Since the establishment of the Ministry by President Bola Tinubu, we have witnessed remarkable achievements and milestones, thanks to the dedication and passion of our predecessors and key stakeholders within the sector.

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    “From the establishment of cultural institutions to the implementation of landmark Policies, Project and Programmes, our Ministry has been and will continue to be at the forefront of driving positive change and transformation.”

    FMACCE is committed to aligning itself with the presidential priorities enunciated by President Tinubu for Ministers and top government functionaries back in November 2023. These include reforming the economy to deliver sustained inclusive growth, strengthening national security for peace and prosperity, boosting agriculture to achieve food security, among others.

    Musawa nailed it when she insisted that, “The Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy sectors have a crucial role to play in achieving these priorities and are critical drivers of economic growth and job creation. By ensuring the development and continued investment in these sectors, we can harness their potential to stimulate innovation, promote entrepreneurship and attract investments, thereby contributing to the diversification and resilience of our economy.”

    With notable clarity and emphasis, she reaffirmed her Ministry’s commitment to working together to ensure that the efforts that birthed FMACCE are consolidated and institutionalised. Significantly, Musawa who boldly proclaimed that the creative economy is Nigeria’s “new oil” has kept her pledge, mirrored in the impressive, critical grounds FMACCE has covered on her watch, despite the bracing challenges.

    As the administration of President Tinubu marks its first anniversary in office, it will be pertinent to track its governance progress. It is a good opportunity to beam the searchlight on the achievements of FMACCE.

    Under Musawa’s stern watch, the FMACCE, as at the first quarter [Q1] of 2024, recorded a total of 1,005 individuals trained in professional development programs in the creative sub-sectors through NICO, National Theatre, NFC, NFI, NGA, MOWAA. It has also recorded a total of 103 trainees trained in cultural and creative academies established in partnership with higher institutions. These remarkable positives come under capacity building/training of individuals across the creatives sector.

    The Ministry has also embarked on PPP for infrastructure renovation/construction. The ongoing renovation of the National Theatre through PPP with the CBN & The Bankers Committee.

    On crucial partnerships and collaboration front, it has Commenced mapping of potential domestic and international partnerships and collaborations across all sub-sectors. It has signed MOUs for partnership with the Recording Academy (Grammy’s); the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) in collaboration with NCMM, ABU Zaria, and AUN Yola.

    On the critical job Creation, the Ministry has recorded a total of 257,754 new jobs created. In terms of its contribution to the nation’s GDP, it has scaled up GDP contribution share by 0.37% from 1.3% to a current GDP share of 1.67%.

    Within the period of assessment which is under a year, FMACCE has increased the number of Nigerian Cultural Heritage on UNESCO Representative List by two. These include the Sango Festival Oyo and Midwifery.

    On the Soft Power front, FMACCE has spearheaded the increase in Nigeria’s cultural influence which expanded from 2.5% to 46% and also recorded increase in Nigeria’s cultural influence which also expanded from 2.5% to 46%. It further recorded increase in Nigeria’s Brand Perception Index from 1.5% to 18%.

    In terms of stakeholder engagement, it conducted 18 stakeholder engagement events with the public through Industry stakeholder workshops, CEBAAC and NGA.

    Against the foregoing backdrop, it is indeed indisputable that the creative economy is a fountain of opportunities, a wellspring of economic growth, and a catalyst for societal transformation. It is also a testament to the ingenuity of Nigerians, the richness of her cultural heritage and the boundless imagination that defines it as a nation. The FMACCE boss has nimbly demonstrated this and promises even more.

    It was then not surprising that looking ahead, the Minister, FMACCE, has solemnly pledged that her ministry will facilitate the creation of two million jobs for the employment of qualified Nigerians.

    Hear her: “We are trying to diversify from oil through the creative industry. Job creation is key and we want to create and contribute 2 million jobs by 2027. We want to increase the GDP of Nigeria by 100 billion dollars by 2030. It is doable. We are going to work round the clock to ensure we are able to do that.”

    Clearly, President Tinubu, through the reconceptualization and creation of the new FMACCE, has demonstrated his genuine commitment to supporting the growth and development of the Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy Sectors. He clearly recognizes the vital role these sectors play in the national development agenda.

    It’s then little wonder that President Tinubu has peered into the future and proclaimed his administration would create a trillion-dollar economy in ten years. For Doubting Thomases, it could be readily recalled that the US State of California recorded over three trillion-dollar GDP in 2023 by leveraging its human and technological resources.

    Leaning on his “Renewed Hope Agenda,” the emerging consensus is that indeed President Tinubu can leverage Nigeria’s population and resources to build a trillion-dollar economy within the next decade.

    The President had noted that achieving his ambitious goal of creating a trillion-dollar economy in ten years can be further facilitated by ongoing efforts on job creation, access to capital for SMEs, inclusiveness, the rule of law and the fight against insecurity, hunger, poverty and corruption. Barr. Musawa is certainly a key player in that compelling big picture.

    What’s more. The FMACCE boss Musawa has demonstrated a special awareness and knows it’s no secret that today, the world, Africa and Nigeria stand on the brink of substantial disruptions – and also of considerable opportunity – as new governance, political and business models challenge traditional playbooks.

    She has demonstrated capacity, competence and compelling leadership in her previous engagements. The FMACCE under her watch as well as the nation are already benefiting from these critical capabilities as she drives the creative economy.

    •Dr. Ayoola, a Cultural Anthropologist, writes in from Lagos

  • In Sanwo-Olu’s Lagos, workers are reaping rewards here on earth 

    In Sanwo-Olu’s Lagos, workers are reaping rewards here on earth 

    By Ibrahim Adesokan

    The conversation on the new minimum wage for Nigerian workers has become a topical national issue since Wednesday, May 1, 2024. The commemoration of this year’s International Workers’ Day again brought to the frontburner the lingering wage issue and attendant problems. The various labour unions, particularly, the Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC and Trade Union Congress, TUC and their affiliates have been hellbent at forcing the federal government to open negotiation on the 615,000 minimum wage proposal they put forward for the government, despite the announcement of certain increments in salaries for public servants. 

    In the midst of the confusion, the government of Mr, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State towered high in terms of workers’ welfare and providing an enabling environment for state workers to thrive. At the Mobolaji Johnson Sports Arena, Onikan, the venue of the May Day commemoration ceremony, Governor Sanwo-Olu reiterated his readiness to implement and pay the new minimum wage that will be decided by the Federal Government.

    Read Also: Sanwo-Olu delivers 178km of roads, 2.6km of bridges in one year – LASG

    Governor Sanwo-Olu who was applauded by the union leaders in the state for his pro-workers policies and various interventions he had put in place to cushion the impact of the economic hardship on the workers, said: “This year’s theme, ‘People First,’ resonates deeply with our administration’s philosophy, which is underpinned by our firm belief in prioritising the welfare of our people.

    “Through various measures, policies, and initiatives, we have demonstrated that the interest and welfare of the people come first and remain the ultimate goal of all our actions. Our response actions are geared towards mitigating the impact of these trying times and offering support to both our workers and citizens alike.

    “We have been steadfast and intentional in implementing our social intervention programmes, providing crucial assistance to those in need throughout the state. From subsidised food items through our Ounje Eko, and Eko Cares initiatives to incentives on social services, we have made tangible differences in countless lives.

    “Healthcare initiatives that ensure access to quality medical services for all, transportation support, and educational opportunities for our children exemplify our commitment to creating a Lagos where everyone has a fair chance to thrive. Our dedication to putting people first extends beyond mere words.”

    Speaking further on his administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare, Governor Sanwo-Olu added that : “As we look towards the future, I want to reaffirm our commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable society in which the interests of workers receive the attention it deserves.

    “We will continue to invest in education, training, and skills development to equip our workforce with the tools they need to succeed in their places of work because we recognize the vital role that workers play in driving progress and prosperity in our society. And we pledge to build a future where every worker is respected, empowered and able to live with dignity and pride.”   

    The Chairperson of NLC, Lagos State Council, Comrade Agnes Funmi Sessi and her TUC counterpart, Comrade Gbenga Ekundayo, praised Governor Sanwo-Olu for making workers’ welfare a priority of his administration, attesting that under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Lagos State Government has implemented a plethora of social intervention programmes that are targeted at enhancing the well-being of the populace.

    In her words, Sessi said: “Let me use this unique occasion of May Day to commend and appreciate our Mr. Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for all his interventions to cushion the effect of the economic problems and ameliorate the suffering of the workers in the State.

    “We all witnessed his policy on the last reduction in BRT transportation, the setting up of a discounted food mart, the three-day working policy, the payment of a 20 percent increment in salary, the full implementation of N35,000 Wage Award as approved by the Federal Government, and prompt payment of salary.”

    Ekundayo commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for his prompt action in implementing the Wage Award for all public servants in Lagos State, noting that the swift response has provided much-needed relief to mitigate the adverse combined effects of the recent subsidy removal and devaluation of the Naira.

    “Lagos has been at the forefront of implementing welfare programmes that positively impact workers, and your (Governor Sanwo-Olu) dedication to this course is deeply appreciated. Your commitment to prioritising the welfare of your people is perfectly aligned with our core belief of placing citizens first,” he said.

    Lagos has set the pace  and standard in industrial harmony. Governor Sanwo-Olu has demonstrated repeatedly that he is indeed committed to the welfare of the Lagos workforce. The pronouncements at the May Day event at Onikan were not just political statements, they are facts and solid promises premised on the track record of honesty and transparency which are the anchors of the relationship of the Governor Sanwo-Olu and the respective labour union affiliates in Lagos State.

    In assessing the general welfare of the workers, it cannot be done in isolation. The infrastructure and massive social support programmes provided by the state government also contribute to ameliorating the plights of the workers. The subsidy on public transportation, including public buses, rail and ferries go a long way in reducing the burden of cost of mobility to work and other destinations. The transportation cost that should have utterly depleted the take-home of workers have been cushioned through the intervention.

    Ditto for cost of healthcare, public hospitals in Lagos State which are adjudged efficient by many Lagosians also provides succor to the vulnerable members, including workers, through Governor Sanwo-Olu’s intervention to reduce the cost of medicare and certain categories of drugs in response to the record economic hardship that many Lagosians are facing.   

    In the education sector as well, many workers whose children are in Lagos State-owned public tertiary institutions are also benefiting from special bursary and scholarship schemes of the Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu administration.

    So, the accolades and commendations showered on Governor Sanwo-Olu by the workers are true reflections of his contributions to the general well-being of Lagosians, workers inclusive.

    •Adesokan writes from Mushin, Lagos State

  • From Chairside to Compliance Champion: A story about Dr. Kingsley Obanubi’s relentless pursuit of sterile excellence

    From Chairside to Compliance Champion: A story about Dr. Kingsley Obanubi’s relentless pursuit of sterile excellence

    Cleanliness may be the visible standard in dental practice, but true sterility is an invisible discipline, one that determines whether a clinic protects or endangers its patients. In Nigeria’s evolving oral healthcare sector, where varying levels of infrastructure pose real challenges to infection prevention, Dr. Kingsley Oluyomi Obanubi has distinguished himself as a practitioner who refuses to compromise on safety. His work reflects an understanding that sterilization is not a checklist; it is a culture that must be built, taught, and continuously reinforced for every procedure that unfolds in a clinical environment.

    His commitment to elevating infection-control practices began with a simple observation: many clinics relied on improvised routines rather than structured systems, leaving room for cross-contamination and preventable risks. He responded by developing a set of robust, evidence-based infection-control and sterilization protocols now adopted by more than 15 private dental clinics across Lagos and Ogun states.

    The protocols are comprehensive, covering everything from the pre-cleaning and segregation of instruments to autoclave calibration, environmental decontamination, and regulated biomedical waste management. By integrating documentation checkpoints and workflow sequencing, he ensured that each step reinforces the next, creating a safety loop that minimizes human error and strengthens compliance across the board.

    Beyond designing these systems, he recognized that adoption would only be sustainable if clinical teams were empowered with practical knowledge. His hands-on workshops, designed for dental auxiliaries and junior clinicians, bring infection control to life in a relatable, operational way. Participants learn the reasoning behind each process, the consequences of lapses, and the techniques required to maintain aseptic conditions even in high-volume settings. Many clinics report not only fewer contamination incidents but a new sense of professional pride among staff who now understand their role as custodians of patient safety.

    His influence has also extended regionally through informal collaborations with safety officers and clinic managers seeking guidance on how to modernize their processes. His willingness to review setups, assess gaps, and recommend tailored improvements has made him a trusted resource for facilities hoping to align with global best practices. Whether he is validating sterilization cycles, reviewing operatory turnover procedures, or helping clinics adopt more structured documentation habits, his approach remains grounded in practicality and integrity.

    His leadership demonstrates that when a practitioner prioritizes sterility with consistency and conviction, entire networks of clinics rise to a higher standard. In the effort to strengthen Nigeria’s dental safety landscape, his voice and his work continues to set a benchmark for excellence that is both timely and indispensable.

  • RE: Dangers of establishing state police

    RE: Dangers of establishing state police

    The  piece above is good,  but one sided. It begins and ends the arguments on governors abusing power! No, the issues are deeper, and we should never shy away from addressing them.

    State police is as good as creation of states and local governments in Nigeria. How do we come to the present structures of 36 states, 774 local government councils from the 4 regional governments, to 12 states, 19 states etc?

    How do we reconcile the arguments that creation of states and local governments mean bringing governments or governance to the grassroots, and leave an integral parts of the components (law enforcement) hugely concentrated at the centre?!

    The security challenges we have today is largely due to the fact that policing in Nigeria is not localised. It has become Abuja issue, Abuja matter, Abuja headaches!. And unfortunately, Abuja itself enjoyed all the headaches associated with the behemoth called The Police.  We cannot shy away from addressing the fears State police would create, but the gains are far reaching and more beneficial especially in modern times.

    Read Also: Dangers of establishing state police in Nigeria under current governance conditions

    We cannot say because kidnappers and terrorists are using telephone service to carry out their wicked and cruel acts, and decide to go back to years of NITEL telephone system. It will be counter productive. The state police issue is like GSM. Everybody owns it,  and can also be used by everyone to escape kidnapping and terrorism. It is just that the state has to lead, open heartedly!!

    Let us decentralised the police, let the people own the police, let us democratise police operations,  Nigeria will be better for it! Our major problem is that people who are against it are people from the old order who fears that police control by states could become unmanageable and out of control of government at the centre. They also fears that natives could exploits the powers of states police to deprive them of privileges they have been enjoying since 1960.  No state will function properly and realise its full potentials by remaining stagnant and fixated to old and antiquated order.

    Few days ago, the IGP called for the merger of FRSC, NSCDC with the Police. It’s a worn out, lazy suggestion. The DSS was part of the Police before, why didn’t he extend his call to the DSS? You are in charge of over 400,000 policemen,  you have not managed it over the years to the envy of Nigerians and the International community, you asking that you should be given additional responsibility, who does that?!

    The states have been providing logistics support for the police, but how are such support managed to attract more? Give the military 15 Hilux Jeep, and give same to police on the same day, come back in just 3 months to check the conditions of the vehicles, you will be shocked what you will discover regarding the conditions of the vehicles in the care of police, while the military vehicles will still be very gallant and sound!!

    The conversation about state police is necessary, but it important we start its creation now. With appropriate mechanism/ constitutional instruments in place, the fears Dr Ardo raised will pile into insignificant in the long run!

  • Dangers of establishing state police in Nigeria under current governance conditions

    Dangers of establishing state police in Nigeria under current governance conditions

    By Umar Ardo

    The proposal to establish State Police in Nigeria has sparked a contentious debate due to the concerns surrounding the persisting abuse of power by state governors. While the concept of State Police aims at enhancing security and law enforcement at the state level may seem plausible, however, the existing governance challenges and abuse of authority raise significant apprehensions about the potential consequences of entrusting state governors with coercive powers through State Police forces. Besides, in all the arguments for the establishment of State Police, there is not a single point where it is shown how the absence of State Police is responsible for breeding insecurity and how its establishment would solve the problem. It is therefore important to rethink the idea of establishing State Police in Nigeria in the bid to address the current security situation.

    One of the primary arguments against the establishment of State Police in Nigeria pertains to the chronic abuse of power by state governors. The mismanagement of state resources, widespread corruption, and the manipulation of the state electoral commission in our Local Government elections for political gains are prevalent issues that have eroded trust in our state governance system. The consistent pattern of election rigging and the imposition of one-party rule at the local government level underscore the extent of authoritarian tendencies exhibited by all state governors in the country.

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    Granting state governors control over State Police forces in the current political climate, therefore, poses a grave risk to democracy and the electoral process in Nigeria. The history of state governors stifling democratic elections at the grassroots level and silencing opposition voices represent a clear warning sign of the potential repercussions of consolidating coercive powers in the hands of a few political elites. Allowing state governors to wield State Police authority could lead to the further erosion of democratic principles, free and fair elections, and the stifling of political dissent.

    The decentralization of policing authority under state governors raises fundamental concerns about the separation of powers, checks and balances, and the independence of the judiciary. By empowering state governors with State Police forces, there is a real danger of executive overreach, abuse of power, and the subversion of constitutional safeguards. The concentration of coercive power in the hands of political actors who have a history of undermining democratic institutions could have far-reaching implications for the rule of law and accountability in Nigeria.

    Also, very importantly, the discourse on the establishment of State Police in Nigeria has proponents advocating for enhanced security and decentralization of law enforcement. However, a critical analysis reveals a conspicuous absence of concrete evidence linking the absence of State Police to the country’s security challenges. My argument hence aims to deconstruct the prevailing narrative and advocate against the establishment of State Police based on the lack of substantive justification for its necessity in addressing insecurity in Nigeria.

    The key point to note therefore is the complete absence of any causal link between the prevailing security challenges and State Police. This is a central flaw in the argument for establishing State Police in Nigeria. Peruse all the arguments of the proponents and a point of note is the failure to establish a clear causal relationship between the absence of State Police and the country’s security threats. Proponents often assert that State Police would enhance security and improve law enforcement, yet little empirical evidence or data is presented to demonstrate how the current centralized policing structure is the root cause of insecurity. Without a compelling case linking the absence of State Police to the proliferation of insurgency, banditry, crime and violence, the urgency for its establishment is obviously called into question.

    Also, another critical lacuna in the discourse surrounding the establishment of State Police is the reliance on unsubstantiated assumptions about its efficacy in addressing security challenges. Advocates frequently argue that State Police would be more responsive to local needs, improve intelligence gathering, and enhance community policing efforts. However, these assertions are often speculative and lack empirical validation. The mere act of decentralizing law enforcement does not inherently guarantee improved security outcomes unless accompanied by comprehensive reforms, capacity building, and accountability mechanisms.

    Furthermore, the exclusive focus on the establishment of State Police as a panacea for Nigeria’s security woes overlooks the systemic challenges and structural impediments that undermine effective policing. Issues such as corruption, lack of training, inadequate resources, politicization of law enforcement agencies and weak coordination between security forces represent significant barriers to achieving sustainable security outcomes. Merely creating State Police without addressing these underlying issues is akin to applying a superficial solution to a complex and multifaceted problem.

    Hence, rather than rushing to establish State Police under the guise of addressing insecurity, it is essential to explore alternative approaches that can yield more sustainable and effective results. Strengthening and expanding existing federal law enforcement agencies, investing in training and capacity building, enhancing intelligence sharing mechanisms, promoting community engagement and improving good governance and rule of law at all governmental levels are critical components of a comprehensive security strategy. These measures address the root causes of insecurity and foster a holistic approach to law enforcement that transcends mere structural reorganization.

    My argument against the establishment of State Police in Nigeria, therefore, hinges on the critical examination of the security fallacy perpetuated in the discourse surrounding its necessity. The absence of a clear causal link between security challenges and the need for State Police, coupled with unsubstantiated assumptions of its efficacy, underscores the imperative for a more nuanced and evidence-based approach to security reform. By reframing the debate to focus on addressing structural impediments, enhancing existing law enforcement capabilities, and adopting comprehensive security strategies, Nigeria can adopt a more pragmatic and effective approach to enhancing security and promoting the rule of law.

    In light of the aforementioned, therefore, it is imperative for all stakeholders, including President Bola Tinubu and advocates of democracy, to oppose the establishment of State Police under the current governance conditions in Nigeria. The potential consequences of granting state governors unchecked coercive powers are dire and could undermine the foundations of democracy, pluralism, and political participation. Instead of reinforcing authoritarian tendencies, efforts should be focused on strengthening existing institutions, promoting transparency and upholding the rule of law to safeguard democracy in Nigeria.

    Undoubtedly , the establishment of State Police in Nigeria under the prevailing governance circumstances characterized by abuse of power and authoritarian governance poses significant threats to democracy, opposition, and the rule of law. The historical misuse of constitutional powers by state governors and the erosion of democratic principles at the local government level serve as cautionary tales against further decentralizing coercive authority. It is essential to prioritize institutional reforms, accountability mechanisms, and respect for democratic norms rather than risking the consolidation of power in the hands of a few political elites through State Police forces. Protecting democracy in Nigeria requires vigilance, advocacy for good governance and a steadfast commitment to upholding constitutional principles that safeguard the rights and liberties of all citizens.

  • Electricity is key to ease of doing manufacturing business

    Electricity is key to ease of doing manufacturing business

    47 year-old Dr. Folashade Okoya, a leading figure in the manufacturing sector, celebrated her 25th wedding anniversary with her illustrious husband, Chief Akanni Okoya, founder of Eleganza Industries Limited, yesterday. Now at the helm of Eleganza Industries Limited, she oversees operations on a vast 35-acre site near the Pan Atlantic University on the Ibeju-Epe Expressway, Lagos. The facility in the factory is state-of-the-art, producing a wide array of goods that meet both high-quality standards and international benchmarks. Genius and workaholic, she dedicates herself to the six days a week, from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm. Her time is divided between the factory, her four children, her husband, and occasional social events on weekends. Her dedication and style are truly inspiring. Dr. Okoya spoke with reporters on her business concerns and vision for the growth of the conglomerates. Excerpts by Deputy Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU.

    Managing an industry of this size is no easy fit for anyone. As a woman-wife and mother-how have you  been able to succeed in steering its affairs in a male-dominated world, successfully?

    To be honest it has not been easy but with hard work, determination and the Grace of God, we were able to scale through.

    It is a manufacturing sector beset by many challenges in the last few years like FX, input costs, energy costs, etc, how are you navigating these challenges to stay afloat?

    Our biggest challenge is electricity because we strictly operate on generator which makes life not easy for us.

    Industries have been urged to embrace backwards integration to reduce FX exposure. How much has this helped you and how much of your needed materials are locally sourced?

    On some products like our plastic products, almost 90% are local materials, due to local petrol-chemicals,

    You have been credited for a lot of the transformation efforts this business has undergone in the last decade. Tell us about about them and how they have kept Eleganza relevant…

    I brought the present Eleganza to life because my husband has already lost interest due to his first disappointment in the past, I persuaded him to bring everything back alive that is why we are in our present new Incation after Eleko at Ijebu.

    What will you say has been your driving force and motivation?

    My husband interest in industry is very high, its all his life and to enjoy my marriage I have to join force with him

    Looking at current realities, would you say high production costs and in turn, high cost of goods, would abatesoon?

    Yes. There is a big hope for Nigeria, I join prayers with my husband that we should industrialize Nigeria especially our youths, we must teach them how to make good money. Cottage industry in all the states for this youth will be the answer with private finance and trade by barter with some countries to bring their machines in and teach our youths a lots of costs will be down and life will be normal and it will be less crime, that is my daily prayer some with our local endow materials rather than buying their finished products.

    Manufacturing is the bedrock of any economy, how best can Nigeria improve on industrialization?

    Encouraging our youth which are in the majority as I have explained, there will be more millionaires in the country and majority will be happy, cost will be automatically forced down and crime will be a word of the past

    If given the opportunity, what would you do/advice can be done to revamp this sector for proper optimization and growth?

    Ans: Cottage industry is a minor procedure which does not require major capital or attention and yet it will give alot of relief to our daily lives.

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    As a major player in the plastics industry, how are you encouraging sustainability and recycling processes?

    Recycling will be a lot of help and it makes cost cheaper and easier and it will be this part of cottage industry for the youth which will make life easier which is my daily prayer.

    Your business has been in existence for six decades, what are you doing to ensure its continuity for many more years?

    That’s why am involved with my children and by the grace of God we will not disappoint the creator, Chief Rasak Okoya CON.

    Our products stand out for their excellence, with soaps that are unique, pleasantly perfumed, and produced on state-of-the-art German machines, disposable and reusable plastic cups and plates that are elegant, durable, and available in over 100 shapes, and a range of quality cosmetics for beauty, elegance, and comfort.

  • Abiodun’s outpouring of post-subsidy interventions

    Abiodun’s outpouring of post-subsidy interventions

    By Kayode Akinmade

    During the COVID-19 lockdown, the then President, Muhammadu Buhari, some notable aviation experts and other credible national and international bodies singled out Ogun State, along with Lagos, for recognition. They lauded  the two states for their valiant efforts to tame the menace and save the nation needless casualties. Today, as the expected socioeconomic effects of the removal of subsidy on PMS and the floatation of the naira bite hard, Ogun under Prince Dapo Abiodun is playing the same lead role that earned it recognition in the immediate past political dispensation.

    That is not fortuitous: great leaders are known for empathy, integrity, resilience, accountability and dependability. According to the Center for Creative Leadership, a top-ranked provider of executive education, “A good leader should have integrity, self-awareness, courage, respect, compassion, and resilience. They should  encourage learning agile and flex their influence while communicating the vision, showing gratitude, and collaborating effectively.” Dr. Jennifer Varney, Executive VP of Academic Effectiveness at the Southern New Hampshire University, echoes this view when she avers that “good leaders possess self-awareness, garner credibility, focus on relationship-building, have a bias for action, exhibit humility, empower others, stay authentic, present themselves as constant and consistent, become role models and are fully present.”

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    In rolling out food and cash palliatives, Governor Abiodun is showing the central place of people’s comfort in his administration’s programmes. He recognizes the challenges of day-to-day living that the people face and wishes to offer them relief while heightening the delivery of infrastructure projects, including airports, dry ports and expressways. At the moment, in the area of education,about 150,000 students across all levels of education in the state are getting cash awards. The Educational Cash Award For Student Help (OgunEduCASH) is an intervention programme for learners in all public primary and secondary schools, as well as public and private tertiary institutions across Nigeria, to cushion the effects of the economic challenges on learners and their parents. The scheme, announced by Governor Abiodun in February, is a robust part of the state’s palliative package whereby each tertiary education student gets N50,000 cash from the state government, regardless of whether they are in public or private tertiary institutions. That is not all: 100,000 indigent students in public primary and secondary schools are each getting N10,000 cash.

    Not surprisingly, the social and traditional media is replete with testimonies of students who have enjoyed this cash award, which is without prejudice to scholarships and bursaries. They couldn’t hide their excitement even as they showered encomiums on the governor for the gesture. Among many other students, Aminat Asaye, Tomiwa Iteoluwa (Mass Communication HND 2), Ogunjobi and Olujomehin Ebudola (Accountancy, HND 2) and Rokeeb Ayinla (Marketing ND 2), all of the Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta, appreciated Governor Abiodun for the gesture, saying the money would go a long way in meeting their educational pursuits. They were joined by Adebayo Farouq and Olatinuke Olajumoke (Computer Science, HND 2), and Liadi Israel (Computer Science, ND 2), of D.S Adegbenro ICT Polytechnic, who averred that the cash awards would cater for their projects and support in paying a sizeable part  of their tuition fees. And equally mesmerized by the gesture, Adewale Oyenekan, Rebecca Akinfenwa, Leduwe Ayomide, Toheeb Adesina, and David Dosunmu of the Federal College of Education, Osiele, described Governor Abiodun as compassionate, tender hearted, generous, and student-loving father, describing the gesture as an indication of the governor’s passion for the prosperity of the citizenry. Students from some Universities – OOU Ago- Iwoye,TASUED Ijagun also commended the unprecedented efforts of the governor. Specifically, Miss Sharon Olumuyiwa (HHM Dept. OOU) and Dotun Sowole (Bus. Education,TASUED) appreciated the gesture which they claimed helped them in the pursuit of their education.

    That was not all: palliatives aimed at easing both Lent and Ramadan were distributed across the three senatorial districts of the state. The palliatives, including rice, were shared in churches and mosques, with the beneficiaries commending the governor for his kind gesture and noting that their pains were being ameliorated. Said the Bishop of Remo Diocese, Methodist Church Nigeria, The Rt. Rev. Bamidele Ibikunle: “It is an exciting thing to know that our governor is thinking well of the people and I am happy especially today that we are commemorating the Palm Sunday. We want to thank the governor in a special way for being mindful of his people because times are hard and this palliative will go a long way in ameriorating people’s suffering, particularly people who are not sure of what to eat at Easter. They can now have something on their table to eat with their families.” And speaking during the distribution at the Ijebu-Ode Central Mosque, the Grand Chief Imam, Sheik Miftaudeen Ayanbadejo, said: “I thank His Excellency, Governor Abiodun, for this palliative because there is hunger in the land and whatever the government can do to bring relief is welcome.” The cleric urged the Federal Government to open the borders “for a short time even if it is for three months to allow things to normalize.” Hear the Chief Imam of the Ilaro Central Mosque , Alhaji Tajudeen Adewunmi: “The hardship in the land is too much and it is telling on the people. You can imagine a situation where people can no longer afford three square meals per day. It is only God that can come to our rescue. Thank God that we have a governor who feels the pulse of the people and is ready to meet everybody at the point of needs.”

    Indeed, one of the things that constantly gave Nigerians concern before now is the oft-reported hijacking of palliatives by political actors or bureaucrats following their announcement by the various governments. That is why the Ogun State government has been keen ensuring that the intended beneficiaries of its schemes access them directly. Unlike what obtains in other areas, all the palliatives are getting to the direct beneficiaries. For instance, the beneficiaries of EduCash have been lauding the government for its transparency. The government was able to get the data of all students of Ogun origin through collaboration with the school authorities. Names were submitted by VCs, Provosts and Rectors using information submitted by students while filling in JAMB forms or during registration in the institutions, and the students were paid simultaneously. Testimonies abound on Twitter, Facebook and platforms like Nairaland. At the lower levels, the government identified indigent students through their teachers, and testimonies abound of parents thanking the government for the gesture which, according to the state Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof Abayomi Arigbabu, has gulped over N3bn.

    In distributing rice palliatives to the vulnerable and less privileged across LGs, the Abiodun government was meeting a critical need, and it is instructive that there were no reported incidents of rowdiness or fighting. In any case, it is a thing of great joy that in the area of surgical interventions, over 1500 residents have benefited already. The free surgery takes care of ailments like goiter, fibroids, hernia, etc, and has so far been a phenomenal success. Governor Abiodun knows what he is doing: he has a target, and the right people to ensure that the targeted beneficiaries get the interventions. That is obviously an unbeatable combination.

    • Akinmade is Special Adviser on Media and Communications to Ogun State Governor.