The Nation Newspaper

Category: Letters

  • Nigeria’s economy: No easy way out

    Nigeria’s economy: No easy way out

    Sir: For some time, Nigerians have been in denial about the actual state of the nation once hailed as the giant of Africa. Nigeria has deteriorated over the years to the extent that it is often referred to as ‘a failed nation’. Previous administrations failed to stem the decline in Nigeria’s economic fortunes. Therefore, the current administration inherited a nation in a state of comatose, characterized by high levels of insecurity, poverty, unemployment, inadequate access to education, non-payment of salaries and pensions by some state governments, high unsettled foreign exchange obligations, a debt service-to-revenue ratio of 97%, poor infrastructure, and other symptoms of a failing nation.

    The task of putting Nigeria on the path to economic prosperity is enormous, but not insurmountable. It requires transformational and drastic changes, not incremental ones, as the nation has drifted too far from the path of economic sustainability.

    The current administration, understanding this, introduced major policy shifts—what some may call shock therapy. It has also moved away from the Keynesian economic model, which promotes government intervention in the economy for stability, towards the classical economic model, which supports a limited government role in the economy. It is important to note that the classical model usually comes with some economic fluctuations in the short term, which Nigeria is currently experiencing.

    The economic reforms of the current government have already started yielding results. The country’s debt service-to-revenue ratio has dropped from 97% to under 70%, freeing resources for investment in security, infrastructure, and other critical sectors of the economy. Allocations to the three tiers of government have increased. Additionally, Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product grew by 3.19% in the second quarter of 2024 (year-on-year), which is higher than the 2.51% recorded in the second quarter of 2023 and the 2.98% recorded in the first quarter of 2024.

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    Students have already started benefiting from the student loan scheme, and affordable houses are being built across the nation under the Renewed Hope Housing Scheme. The Consumer Credit Scheme is another initiative set to commence, to name just a few.

    Nigerians have experienced failed leadership in the past, so many are not fully convinced of the sincerity of purpose and the efficacy of the economic reforms of the current administration. However, the role the government played in securing local government financial autonomy and the unification of foreign exchange rates are examples of its genuine commitment to transforming the nation for good. Local governments in the country are now expected to operate more effectively and contribute more to national development. It would have been convenient for President Tinubu to leave the arbitrage in the forex markets intact and benefit from it at the expense of pursuing economic recovery.

    Another sign of the current government’s patriotism is its refusal to chase after popularity, instead sticking to its economic policies despite their unpopularity. In a democracy, many leaders avoid making such decisions to avert the risk of losing future elections.

    There is no doubt that in addition to the current economic reforms, Nigeria like many other African countries—needs to seek some form of debt relief to free up more resources for national development. This was reiterated by the chairman of the African Union Commission during the recently concluded Africa Food Systems Summit in Kigali, who said that debt relief is an urgent imperative for many African states to give them vital economic breathing space.

    Without the current economic reforms Nigeria is undertaking, which show a genuine desire to turn things around, her creditors may be reluctant to consider her plea for debt relief.

    Nigerians need to be patient, as there is no quick fix or easy solution to the economic challenges the country is facing. The government should ensure the timely implementation of policies. For example, the CNG initiative and the implementation of the national minimum wage need to be fast-tracked. It will be beneficial for the government to continuously educate Nigerians about its various intervention programs and provide updates on the implementation of its economic policies. Communication is key, especially in times like this

    •Kenechukwu Aguolu, <kenerek1@gmail.com>

  • Use housing to boost economic recovery

    Use housing to boost economic recovery

    Sir: No country can boast of economic prosperity without providing housing or creating a suitable environment for its people to secure affordable housing.

    One thing we continue to brandish in the country is housing shortage or housing deficit. I have been hearing of 17 million housing deficit for the past 15 years or thereabout, which has now been estimated to about 28 million. Nigeria’s population has also grown from about 80 million 20 years ago to about 220 million.

    The key thing is that housing shortage provides incentives for development, and actually there are huge opportunities in it. Nigeria’s huge housing deficit is enough to stimulate government’s action, but the government seem not to have seen the need to make housing more attractive to stimulate economic growth.

    It is the way the economy is patterned that real estate latches on. The prospects are there for the industry to thrive; the sector is heavily underdeveloped and there are still a lot of opportunities for development within the housing sector, but those opportunities can only be realized by conscious efforts of government and private sector commitment to realizing them. Real estate sector in other climes contribute hugely to Gross Domestic Product. In Nigeria, housing contributes about 5%, which is ridiculous. In the United States of America and United Kingdom, you have contributions of 18%-20% to GDP.

    Compare real estate with the stock market for instance. In stock market, you buy shares today, probably the price is low, you sell it, and you get your money. If you hang on to it, there are two components of income, you have the income and then the prospects of that shares increasing, but it is in real estate that you have a much more secured investment, with expectations of capital growth and current income return. The federal government has to come up with clear incentives for the operators and the private sector participants for them to be able to plan accordingly, so that there will be activities in the economy. When there are activities in the economy, initiatives will come up within the real estate sector and other sectors.

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    There is no business that does not require real estate and there is no human being that does not require real estate one way or the other, so the sector is key. The potentials are there, the opportunities are there, but we need the economy to be properly focused, properly-led and managed by policy makers and the government in particular so that other sectors including the real estate can thrive.

     The mortgage sector remains a critical segment that should be explored by the government to revitalize the economy. The Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), saddled with delivering quality services to National Housing Fund (NHF) contributors and mortgagors, is taking steps to ensure that Nigerians have affordable housing. The bank is forming viable partnerships to stimulate competition for the growth of the housing sector. Repositioning the bank will be the first step to achieving the desired impact in the housing sector. The bank should collaborate with other organizations of like minds to promote self-reinvention and stimulate competition for the overall growth of the housing sector.

    Addressing housing deficit remains a good means of stimulating the economy. Investment in housing stimulates the economy by pushing a lot of money into circulation. Every recessive economy needs a stimulus as we can see from around the world; an injection of cash into the economy in the hands of spenders. This acts as stimuli. Money being spent at all levels at the same time will move the economics of buying and spending to revive the economy. This ability to spend creates the necessary needed monetary activity in the country. Construction of houses will initiate growth, which would assist in creating jobs. And when the economy is stimulated, it will translate invariably to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth.

    •ESV Umoru Yakubu Ayiegbeni, Lagos.

  • Tackling the housing challenge

    Tackling the housing challenge

    Sir: Housing is one of the most important needs of man, but unfortunately, housing has not received enough attention from successive governments, unlike other sectors such as defence, agriculture, health and aviation. The nation’s housing deficit as at 2023 is estimated at about 28 million, with about N21 trillion required to fill the deficit gap.

    Increase in housing deficit over the years is an indication that government’s housing policy has not made much impact, which implies that deficit would continue to rise until concrete actions are taken.

    Housing challenges could be categorized under three major areas. The first has to do with availability of serviced and titled plots or lands for housing development. You can only provide housing on land. You might say that land is everywhere, but are they ready for development? Most of the lands you see lack the basic facilities that will make such lands developable. They lack the much-needed official certification or title that will make such land or property built on it marketable. This is a major impediment to housing provision.

    Finance is another major challenge, because housing is capital intensive; no matter the standard or scope of the project, you need quite a lot of money to accomplish it. We lack organized housing finance system in Nigeria. Mortgage financing is not really there.

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    Another challenge is expertise and technology. Housing involves construction and development and sometimes, the type of skills required are not readily available, particularly when you want to go into mass production. We don’t have the capacity, technology and system that can throw up a lot of housing at a time. We still rely so much on the traditional way of mortal bricks and it takes the normal time it will take even when the population is growing at a much higher rate that it will take to meet up with what is required of housing.

    These challenges point toward the absence of planning. So, we should start from the point of knowledge acquisition; most of the people who have administered housing in Nigeria knew little about the industry. In addition to making housing our utmost priority, government should allow professionals, particularly Estate Surveyors and Valuers to manage the sector. Government should put in place structures to make building materials affordable to the less affluent members of the society who constitute the larger percentage of the population and who are mostly affected by the housing deficit.

    •ESV Chime Adesanya, Lagos.

  • Fuel subsidy removal and real estate

    Fuel subsidy removal and real estate

    Sir: It is sad and disheartening that Nigeria, Africa’s largest oil producer does not have operational or functional oil refineries, hence its resort to importation of fuel to meet the about 70 million litres daily consumption of fuel by about 200 million Nigerians. Government subsidizes by paying the difference between the pump price of fuel -premium motor spirits- at the petrol station and the actual cost of importation of the product.

    Fuel subsidy policy which became institutionalized following the promulgation of the Price Control Act in 1977 has over the years become a contentious and highly controversial issue. It is not in contention however that fuel subsidy has become a huge financial burden in the light of the nation’s economic reality, with substantial portion of the national income committed to funding the subsidy scheme on annual basis, causing essential sectors and services such as education, health, defence and critical infrastructure to suffer inadequate funding. Subsidies have long been a tremendous drain on the resources of the country, a conduit pipe used to steal money.

    The Buhari administration resorted to borrowing to finance infrastructure and other services, leaving behind about N77 trillion ($167bn) debt to local and foreign creditors at the expiration of his tenure. Already, 96 percent of the government’s revenue is being used to service debt and there are fears the government’s cash crunch could worsen if subsidy payments continue.

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced an end to the highly controversial subsidy regime on assumption of office. Expectedly, this has led to increase in the pump price, with the price of fuel at between N650 and N900 per litre in Lagos. The price differs from state to state off course. Prices of goods and services have also gone up.

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    Critical sectors of the economy, including the real estate sector are feeling the heat. High cost of fuel has led to increase in cost of production, including transport fare, causing building materials prices to shoot up, simply because producers of these materials rely largely on petroleum for energy; don’t forget that electricity supply is unstable. Cost of taking the materials to sites has also increased. These have consequences on rent, affordability, housing delivery and house gap. Industry practitioners are dealing with defaults in payment and renewal of rents, for commercial and residential accommodation.

    Going forward; though there are huge benefits in subsidy removal to the economy, if sincerely implemented, the long-term benefits are huge, and worth the sacrifices of the moment. In the interim however, government should introduce comprehensive incentives and palliatives to cushion the effects of deregulation on the poor and average Nigerians.

    It is extremely important and urgent for the government to address housing and infrastructure development. Federal government should put in place policies and institutional framework cutting across all levels of government – local, state and federal – for social housing. Government should in addition strengthen the mortgage system and make it drive housing provision.

    Housing could drive and sustain our economy, but right things must be done.

    ESV Opebiyi Beatrice Abosede,Lagos.

  • On the electronic transfer levy

    On the electronic transfer levy

    Sir: Nigerians woke up to another shocking levy imposed by the federal government, the electronic money transfer levy imposed on customers on fintech platforms.

    The latest levy, a N50 charge on electronic transfers above N10,000 is already sparking outrage and frustration among citizens already struggling with multiple taxation, poverty, hunger and unemployment. The removal of oil subsidy no doubt, is having a great impact on the citizens who now find it so hard to transport themselves or eat three square meals as the prices of every commodity continues to soar.

    The Electronic Money Transfer Levy Regulations, 2022, introduced by the Finance Act, 2020 to be enforced by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), effective September 9 is another example of the government’s obsession with taxation. The levy, which targets electronic transactions, will only exacerbate the suffering of Nigerians, who are already burdened by various taxes, fees, and levies.

    While President Tinubu’s administration speaks of reforms and stringent measures to curb corruption and reduce the country’s debt, its actions tell a different story. The government’s rhetoric about austerity measures and belt-tightening has not been matched by the lifestyle and spending habits of those in government. It is time for the government to practice what it preaches. If those in government are serious about reforms and reducing corruption, they must start by setting an example. The

    The federal government must understand that a thriving economy is built on the back of a prosperous people. To achieve this, the government must create an enabling environment for businesses to flourish. This includes supporting small and medium-scale enterprises through grants and loans, as well as investing in agriculture, production, and productivity. By doing so, the government can stimulate economic growth and create jobs, thereby improving the standard of living for Nigerians.

    It is only when both the micro and macro economies are improved that the government can justify taxing its citizens. But as it stands, the government’s continued taxation of already overburdened citizens is nothing short of extortion.

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    The government must be sincere in its efforts to improve the lives of Nigerians. It’s time to stop paying lip service. The welfare of the people should be the government’s top priority. It is time for a change in approach, one that prioritizes the needs of Nigerians and works towards creating a better future for all.

    •Dayo DaSilva,Abeokuta, Ogun State.

  • Suspend the age limit for WASSCE/NECO

    Suspend the age limit for WASSCE/NECO

    Sir: Recently, the Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman said the federal government would begin to enforce the 18-year qualification to sit for West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), Senior School Certificate Examination by National Examination Council (NECOSSCE) and Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

    The policy is about 41 years old but Nigeria is bereft of policy implications. Today, wearing of crash helmet is a law in the country but its enforcement is to say the least weak.

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    When the 6-3-3-4 system of education was introduced in 1983, there were few private schools in the country. It is the proliferation of private schools that has contributed to the issue of under-aged students sitting for WASSCE/NECO/UTME. Besides, many mothers who hitherto were full housewives are now employees on the payrolls of government and other employers of labour. That too contributes to ‘feeding bottle’ children in schools.

    To change the narrative and implement the policy, may I suggest that the federal government start from basic school level while one enjoins the government to allow those who are already in basic and secondary schools complete the rungs of their education ladders

    Otherwise, it will compound the already polluted environment as more miscreants, street urchins, social misfits, bandits and the likes will be unleashed on the society. God forbid!

    •Adelani Olawuyi,Obada/Odooba, Ogooluwa LGA,Oyo State.

  • Blame game as hindrance to development

    Blame game as hindrance to development

    • By Bashir Khalid Furyam

    Sir: The blame game has become a pervasive and entrenched phenomenon in our country’s affairs especially among rival politicians or political groups. Over the years, successive governments, leaders and ruling parties at both federal and state levels have spent much of their time in blaming previous administrations for underdevelopment or the socio-economic or security problems they are unable or unwilling to address. Sometimes they also accuse opposition elements of frustrating their efforts.

    On the other hand, opposition politicians and their groups or parties rarely come forward genuinely to join hands with the government to find a solution to pressing public problems.

    Competition for political power and control is a significant factor that leads to blame game and accusation trade. Absence of effective accountability mechanisms also allows politicians to deflect responsibility. It is common for yesterday’s ‘devils’ to be perceived as ‘saints’ today and vice versa. Politicians across the divides tend to exploit the strong ethnic, religious or regional sentiments among Nigerians. This gives them a window to escape accountability and proper public and institutional scrutiny.

    Despite the existential threat Nigerians face due to insecurity and economic hardship, politicians seem focused on corruptly amassing wealth, fostering their economic and political interests to the detriment of the masses. Nigeria is among the richest countries in the world in terms of human and material resources, but its citizens languish in hunger, poverty, insecurity and educational backwardness.

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    Instead of focusing on collective efforts to tackle these endemic problems, Nigerian politicians shift the national discourse from public service to public blame game. National debates have reduced complicated concepts of national identity, economic stability, resource management and other high-level ideas to blaming and scapegoating.

    Promoting issue-based politics is crucial in Nigeria, Africa’s largest democracy and biggest economy. Transparency and accountability in governance are equally important. The political class must lead by example. This is critical for both those in government and opposition because the attitude of the political class impacts on the attitude of the general public.

    Constructive inter-party dialogue in Nigeria will help the country to move forward. This should be based on public interest taking national unity as well as economic and social development into consideration.

    There must be serious consequences for those involved in corruption, mismanagement of public funds, spreading misinformation and hate speech as well as those undermining Nigeria’s security and economy. The justice system must work to expectation.

    Nigerians are known to be hardworking, innovative and resilient; having good political leadership will spur the country’s development for the benefit of this and future generations.

    •Bashir Khalid Furyam,

    Bauchi, Bauchi State.

  • The heist at the Hajj Commission

    The heist at the Hajj Commission

    • By Ike Willie-Nwobu

    Sir: Nigeria’s tightly wound religious veneer stretches and slips but always manages to hold firm in a country where hypocrisy is a national heirloom.

    To serve is to steal in Nigeria and with each stench of rot that wafts into the public nose, there appears to be no end to the predation of those who pilfer the public purse.

    According to the EFCC, the sum of N90 billion allocated as subsidy for the 2024 Hajj has vanished from the coffers of the Nigerian Hajj Commission (NAHCON). Jalal Arabi, who was the head of the commission when the money allegedly disappeared, has been fired by President Tinubu and investigations are ongoing. But in a country where corruption in public office is an heirloom with investigations always running into impregnable stonewalls, what hope is there that Nigerians, stolen blind by the rampaging greed of a few will find any sort of justice?

    Resources are scarce in Nigeria. What is left after public officers steal to their satisfaction is hardly enough to service the other sectors of the economy like health and education not to talk of the luxury of expensive pilgrimages to other countries. The Nigerian factor also ensures the slots for state-sponsored pilgrimages only falls to privileged citizens who can otherwise sponsor themselves to the pilgrimages but prefer to deprive others of the opportunity.

    The Nigerian state continues to tragically assume the role of a meddlesome interloper, dabbling into issues it has no business with. Now that one of those issues has been exposed for what it is—a front for fraud—it must be scrapped. Having proven to be an unconscionable and questionable drainpipe on Nigeria’s scarce resources, it is time to bin it.

    The alleged heist at the Hajj Commission also begs the question of what other bogus state-sponsored schemes exist in Nigeria with little more than the aim of deluding Nigerians and siphoning public funds. Which other government bodies are hiding the thieves plundering Nigeria’s resources?

    The Tinubu administration must unravel and uncover them. Nigeria’s much heralded return to democracy continues to overshadow the fact that successive governments have been insensitively expensive. While Nigerians have become poorer, government officials have continued to increase the cost of maintaining themselves and their offices. The result is a government disconnected from the people, and mind-boggling corruption.

    The fight against corruption in the country has also served to distract Nigerians from other pressing issues. Nigerians have been roundly and repeatedly deceived by deceitful politicians who tout dubious anti-corruption wars to divert attention from their incompetence and ineptitude.

     Nigerians need to confront the systems and structures that enable corruption in the country. The mentality and culture of corruption embarrassingly embedded into every aspect of life in Nigeria must now be dislodged. This is easier said than done as corruption permeates every aspect of Nigerian life.

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    The government official who sits in his expensively appointed office in Abuja has little qualms about signing off public funds to his private accounts or those of his cronies; the mobile security personnel manning checkpoints menacingly demands that his palms be greased literally and repeatedly by motorists; even the lowly desk officer in a government ministry wants their palms lubricated by weary citizens before they do their jobs.

    As gleaned from chilling revelations concerning the Hajj Commission, even the dictates of religion do little to discourage the corrupt mind. If religion was a strong factor, those who embezzled the money would have refrained given that the funds were appropriated for a spiritual exercise.

     Nigerians know why the leaks in their country have defied plugging to leave them in such a mess. The battle against insidious corruption cannot be won by the state alone acting through suspect agencies. It would require a seismic shift in mentality and culture. With the way things are going, that shift is a bridge too far for Nigerians.

    •Ike Willie-Nwobu,

    Ikewilly9@gmail.com

  • Empowering youth to engage global agriculture

    Empowering youth to engage global agriculture

    • By Ijoho Msonter Samuel

    Sir: Nigeria’s vast agricultural potential is a well-documented fact, but the underutilization of this sector continues to stifle growth. With over 70% of the population involved in agriculture, the sector could be a major driver of Nigeria’s economic transformation. Yet, the country faces challenges such as insecurity, outdated practices, and a lack of access to critical resources, which hinder progress. Nigerian youth, particularly entrepreneurs, are emerging as key players in redefining agriculture through technology, agritecture, and agristructure. These concepts are not only revitalizing the agricultural sector but also positioning Nigeria as a competitive force on the global stage.

    Nigeria’s agricultural sector faces daunting challenges, from persistent insecurity in rural areas to infrastructural deficits and market access issues. However, these challenges are increasingly serving as catalysts for innovation, particularly among young entrepreneurs. Nigeria’s youth are finding ways to adapt, survive, and thrive despite the odds, leveraging technology and creative solutions to overcome obstacles.

    While insecurity poses a real threat to farming activities, it has also driven the need for innovative solutions that minimize risk. For example, digital platforms, mobile banking, and e-commerce solutions are helping entrepreneurs connect with buyers and suppliers without the need for physical presence. By integrating technology into every aspect of their operations, young Nigerian farmers are reducing their exposure to danger while maintaining productivity.

    Agritecture is more than just an innovative design principle; it is a holistic approach to farming that incorporates sustainable practices, technology, and architectural design to maximize productivity. Nigerian entrepreneurs are at the forefront of this trend, adopting methods that allow them to produce high-quality agricultural products despite the constraints they face.

    For example, vertical farming, hydroponics, and aeroponics are becoming popular among urban farmers. These practices not only optimize space but also ensure year-round production in controlled environments, free from the disruptions of unpredictable weather patterns or conflicts. Agritecture also contributes to environmental sustainability, a growing concern in the global market. By using less water, energy, and space, these modern farming methods reduce the ecological footprint of agriculture while boosting output.

    Agristructure takes the principles of smart farming to the next level by focusing on process optimization and operational efficiency. It involves the strategic design of farming activities, the adoption of digital tools for better farm management, and the streamlining of administrative processes. For Nigerian youth, agristructure represents a way to modernize traditional farming practices and make them scalable and competitive on the global stage.

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    Drones, satellite imagery, and precision farming technologies enable farmers to monitor and manage their farms remotely. Data analytics and AI-powered tools help farmers make informed decisions about planting, harvesting, and resource allocation. These innovations reduce waste, enhance productivity, and ensure that Nigerian agricultural products meet the rigorous standards of international markets.

    As global demand for sustainable and climate-smart agriculture continues to grow, Nigeria has a unique opportunity to position itself as a key player. With the world’s population expected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, there is an urgent need for countries like Nigeria to ramp up food production. However, this production must be aligned with global standards for sustainability and environmental stewardship.

    To fully unlock Nigeria’s agricultural potential, young entrepreneurs must focus on building partnerships and collaborations with global stakeholders. By connecting with international organizations, investors, and development agencies, Nigerian youth can gain access to the resources, knowledge, and networks needed to scale their businesses.

    Partnerships with global tech companies can also facilitate the adoption of cutting-edge agricultural technologies. Collaborating with research institutions can help Nigerian entrepreneurs stay at the forefront of innovation, ensuring that they are not only adapting to current trends but also setting new ones.

    While Nigerian youth are making strides in transforming the agricultural sector, they cannot do it alone. There is a need for a supportive environment that fosters innovation, encourages investment, and provides the necessary infrastructure. Government policies should focus on reducing the bureaucratic hurdles that hinder access to financing and resources. Capacity-building programs should be expanded to equip young entrepreneurs with the technical skills they need to succeed.

    Insecurity remains a critical issue that must be addressed. While technology offers ways to mitigate its effects, a long-term solution will require concerted efforts from all stakeholders, including the government, private sector, and civil society. Only by addressing these challenges head-on can Nigeria create an environment where young entrepreneurs can truly thrive.

    •Dr. Ijoho Msonter Samuel,

     <ijohomsonter@gmail.com>

  • Mohammed Idris: One year of leading with passion and purpose

    Mohammed Idris: One year of leading with passion and purpose

    By Gidado Shuaib

    Reflecting on Honourable Minister Mohammed Idris’s first year in office, it is impossible to overlook the significant impact he has had on Nigeria’s media landscape and national orientation. My personal connection with the Minister dates back to his tenure as Chairman of Blueprint Newspaper, offering me a unique perspective on the man behind the title—a leader who has consistently inspired young journalists and PR practitioners and demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the media and public relations industries.

    Whenever we meet, Alhaji Mohammed Idris never fails to inquire about my well-being, often with a lighthearted joke: “Ango, Ina Amarya?”—despite my being married for some time. His legendary work ethic is the hallmark of his career. Since his days at Blueprint Newspaper, operating from Maitama, Abuja, I have admired his charismatic presence and dedication to his craft.

    My relationship with the Honourable Minister deepened through frequent visits to his office and residence, often accompanying my boss, Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace, who was then his Personal Assistant/Special Adviser and is now the Director General of Voice of Nigeria. These encounters afforded me firsthand insights into the Minister’s exceptional leadership qualities. His ability to merge media expertise with a grounded and empathetic approach distinguishes him as a respected figure in both media and public relations.

    It is no surprise that the Blueprint Impact Series/Awards became a landmark event in the media industry, underscoring Alhaji Mohammed Idris’s attention to detail and commitment to excellence. As the publisher of Blueprint and chairman of Kings Broadcasting Limited, owners of WE 106.5 FM Abuja, his influence extends well beyond journalism. His leadership has focused on building platforms that not only inform the public but also contribute meaningfully to national development.

    An accomplished media entrepreneur, Mohammed Idris is a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR). His influence on Nigeria’s media landscape is profound, bolstered by his participation in numerous local and international workshops and conferences on media entrepreneurship, leadership, and public relations.

    Among his notable achievements is the strategic communication guidance he has provided to various public and private organizations, as well as political brands. His roles as Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Kaduna State Chapter, and Vice Chairman of the Public Relations Consultative Association of Nigeria (PRCAN) further reflect his distinguished career.

    Following in the footsteps of media professionals who ventured into politics, such as Chief Lateef Jakande, former governor of Lagos State, and Chief Segun Osoba, former governor of Ogun State, Alhaji Mohammed Idris (Malagi) decided in 2019 to not only take an active interest in politics but also seek political office. From his early political engagements, he gradually earned the trust and admiration of his people in Niger State by advocating non-violent, issue-based politics. While other political actors and their social media proxies often resorted to divisive tactics, Alhaji Mohammed Idris consistently promoted messages of hope, unity, and a brighter, more prosperous Niger State.

    His dedication to public service is evident in the revitalization of agencies under his ministry, such as the Nigerian Press Council and the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria, which were restored to budgetary allocations after years of exclusion. His ability to unify agency heads, the national communication team, and private media organizations toward a common goal—restoring public trust in Nigerian media—has been commendable. A key achievement is President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, through the Bank of Industry, to provide single-digit interest-rate financing to media organizations.

    Additionally, under his leadership, the Federal Government, through the National Council on Establishments (NCE), approved the redesignation of the Information Officer Cadre to Information and Public Relations Officer Cadre (GL08 to 17) and Executive Officer (Information and Public Relations) (GL06 to 14).

    Moreover, the Federal Government has commenced a major rehabilitation of the 14-floor Radio House Complex in Abuja—its first significant renovation in 33 years. This iconic building, once a symbol of national pride, is being restored to its former glory—an achievement that resonates deeply with many who remember its earlier stature in the nation’s history.

    Upon his appointment as Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation on August 21, 2023, I had no doubt that Nigeria had gained a leader committed to service and progress. Honourable Minister Mohammed Idris has exceeded expectations with his five-pillar agenda to revitalize Nigeria’s information sector. This agenda, aligned with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope vision, focuses on rebuilding public trust, amplifying government policies, reshaping national values, modernizing technology, and fostering a conducive environment for media growth.

    His Ministerial Press Briefing Series has become a vital platform for transparency and accountability, offering the public direct access to government information. Honourable Minister Idris’s communication strategy goes beyond the mere dissemination of information—it actively engages citizens, builds trust, and ensures that government actions are transparent and supported by the people.

    His efforts to advance intellectual property rights are equally commendable. He champions fair compensation for content creators, aiming to spur creativity and innovation in the industry. At the National Conference of the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters, he emphasized the importance of adapting to the rapidly evolving media landscape, particularly with the rise of digital platforms such as social media, streaming services, and podcasts.

    As we celebrate his first year in office, Honourable Minister Mohammed Idris stands out as a visionary leader, laying the groundwork for a more informed, united, and progressive Nigeria. His leadership embodies integrity, innovation, and a deep commitment to national development. In an era where public trust in institutions is often fragile, Honourable Minister Idris shines as a beacon of credibility and hope. Under his stewardship, Nigeria’s information sector is being revitalized and positioned to meet future challenges.

    Reflecting on this past year, it is easy to appreciate the shared vision he has for Nigeria and the invaluable lessons learned from his dedication. Honourable Minister Mohammed Idris’s inaugural year is a testament to what can be achieved with vision, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to serving the people. As we look to the future, there is no doubt that he will continue to lead with passion and purpose, inspiring a new generation of leaders to follow in his footsteps.

    Gidado Yushau Shuaib is the Special Assistant to the Director General, Voice of Nigeria (VON). He can be reached at giddyshuaib@gmail.com.