The Nation Newspaper

Category: Letters

  • LG autonomy: Best way to celebrate Africa Anti-corruption Day

    LG autonomy: Best way to celebrate Africa Anti-corruption Day

    • By Debo Adeniran

    Sir: The Centre for Anti-corruption and Open Leadership, CACOL congratulates President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for securing the Supreme Court judgment affirming the financial autonomy of Nigeria’s 774 local governments. It is a right step in his attempt at delivering his party’s promise of restructuring the country.

     We view the landmark judgment as the best gift given to Nigeria and Nigerians even as the whole of Africa marks the Africa Anti-Corruption Day with the theme: Effective Whistle-blowers Protection Mechanism: A Critical Tool in the Fight Against Corruption.

     It is a known fact the local government constitutes the most critical level of government in the move for sustainable national development. It is our belief that local government fiscal autonomy would promote peace and security in the country, because the people at rural communities understand their terrain better and know how to deploy resources towards tackling security challenges. It would also allow steady development that had been stifled at the local government level to be revitalized thereby delivering optimal dividends of democracy to the grassroots people.

    Read Also: Reps deputy speaker drums support for Tinubu

     Moreover, it is generally believed that local authorities play key roles towards nation building, but unfortunately the third tier of government had over time been neglected and undervalued. This Supreme Court judgment granting financial autonomy to local government is a step in the right direction and we hope it would play a significant role in strengthening grassroots administration in the country.

    Since local governments are the closest link to members of the grassroots who are supposed to elect their representatives that would govern them, it is expected that the people would now beam their searchlights on the activities of the local government administrations, when they “see something, they would say something” thereby serving as whistleblowers. The local authorities also would not have any excuse for non-performance of their statutory roles since they are now the direct recipients of their funds from the federation account. 

    We at CACOL therefore commend the Supreme Court for this landmark judgment. We have posited on several occasions that state governments should be scrapped. This is because they are meddlesome interlopers in the governing arrangement in the country. The state governments have been using the instrumentality of the Joint Account Allocation Committee (JAAC) to steal from the local government funds. The federal and Local Government authorities are more than enough to manage the country effectively. We would also like to use this medium to make known our support for any move that is backed by law to strengthen the local government and give it the needed autonomy for it to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people.

    •Debo Adeniran,

    cacolc@yahoo.com

  • Beyond local governments’ autonomy

    Beyond local governments’ autonomy

    • By Ibrahim Mustapha

    Sir: For the 774 local governments in Nigeria, succour came to them on Thursday July 11, when Supreme Court ruled that the federal government should henceforth pay allocations directly to them from federation account. A seven-member panel of the apex court held that state governments have continued to abuse their powers by retaining and using the funds meant for LGAs. The court also ordered the federal government to withhold allocations of local governments governed by unelected officials.

    Nigerians have hailed the judgement and described it as timely. The judgement has rekindled the hopes of many Nigerians and advocates of local government autonomy. Prior to this development, local government exists only in name. They have become mere appendages of state governors who control and pocket their funds with impunity. The result is poor services delivery at the level of communities they were created to serve.

    Meanwhile, the much talked about local government autonomy cannot be complete without good and credible local government elections. While the Supreme Court ruling has outstripped state governors of the power to stop appointing caretakers to overseer the local government councils, elections being conducted by State Independent Electorate Commission (SIECs), are nothing to write home about. The political party which controls power at the state ensures it wins all the seats from chairmen to councillors. Unless state electoral bodies are reformed and free and fair elections conducted, unqualified leaders will continue to emerge to pilot the affairs of the local governments. This will invariably hamper the delivery of democracy dividends.

    Read Also: Minister receives freed journalists abducted in Kaduna, commends NSA

    Another fear being expressed is, with the financial autonomy granted to the local governments, are the governors not likely to impose or support their lackeys as candidates during elections? What about the powerful governors striking a deal with their favourite candidates as condition to get support to win elections?

    The Tinubu administration deserves a pat on the back for ensuring that the long-awaited financial autonomy materialised. As the president stated after the historical judgement, “the chairmen of local governments should be ready to give an account of the allocations they will be receiving from the federation account”.  Beyond that, the chairmen should be ready for more scrutiny from Nigerians.

    •Ibrahim Mustapha,

     Pambegua, Kaduna State.

  • Pathways to sustainability of Nigeria’s ICT industry

    Pathways to sustainability of Nigeria’s ICT industry

    • By Don Pedro Aganbi

    Sir: Nigeria’s Information and Communications Technology (ICT) industry has witnessed significant growth over the past two decades, establishing itself as a pivotal sector for the nation’s economy. The rapid expansion of mobile telephony, internet connectivity, and digital services has spurred economic development, innovation, and job creation. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), “Activities in ICT contributed 16.66 per cent to Nigeria’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in Q4 2023.”

     The industry is, however, fraught with perennial challenges threatening its sustainability and long-term viability. Key among these challenges include issues of right of way (RoW), multiple taxation, rising electricity costs, and the inflation-eroded consumer spending power all of which threaten to impede the industry’s progress. Addressing these obstacles is crucial for ensuring the continued growth of the ICT sector and its contribution to Nigeria’s economic future.

    The right of way (RoW) issue is one of the most significant impediments to the expansion of ICT infrastructure in Nigeria. RoW refers to the legal right to pass through property another party owns. For telecom operators, obtaining RoW is essential for laying fibre optic cables and other critical infrastructure. However, exorbitant fees and bureaucratic delays imposed by various state and local governments and private landowners have hampered progress. Adding to the challenge are unofficial demands by local strongmen in some states, making it hard to predict the total cost. This delays network expansion and increases costs, hindering service accessibility and affordability.

    To mitigate this, a unified national policy on RoW charges is imperative. The federal government’s recent efforts to harmonize RoW charges and reduce fees are steps in the right direction, but consistent implementation across all states is essential. Collaboration between federal and state governments can facilitate smoother processes, lower costs, and accelerate the deployment of broadband infrastructure, ultimately enhancing connectivity across the country.

    Clear and standardized guidelines can expedite approvals and incentivize infrastructure development in underserved areas.

    Multiple taxation is another significant challenge that stifles growth in Nigeria’s ICT sector. Telecom operators and ICT companies often face an array of taxes and levies from different levels of government, from federal to local. This fragmented tax system creates an uneven playing field and increases the operational costs for businesses, discouraging investment and expansion.

     Streamlining the tax regime is crucial for creating a conducive business environment. Implementing a standardized tax framework that minimizes redundancies and promotes transparency can alleviate the financial burden on ICT companies. Additionally, tax incentives for investments in rural and underserved areas (universal access) can encourage broader infrastructure development, bridging the digital divide and fostering inclusive growth.

    Read Also: Reps deputy speaker drums support for Tinubu

     Electricity costs in Nigeria remain prohibitively high, with service notoriously unavailable, posing a significant challenge to the ICT industry. Reliable and affordable power is essential for operating data centres, telecom towers, and other critical infrastructure. However, the inconsistent power supply and high costs have forced many ICT companies to rely on diesel generators, further inflating operational expenses.

     Investing in renewable energy solutions, such as solar power, can offer a sustainable alternative. Government policies that support the adoption of renewable energy technologies, coupled with incentives for ICT companies to transition to green energy, can reduce reliance on costly and environmentally damaging diesel generators. Public-private partnerships in the energy sector can also drive investments in infrastructure, ensuring a more stable and cost-effective power supply for the ICT industry.

    The impact of inflation on consumer income is another critical factor affecting the sustainability of Nigeria’s ICT sector. As inflation erodes purchasing power, consumers have less disposable income to spend on digital services and products. This decline in consumer spending can limit the growth of ICT companies and stifle innovation.

    To address this, ICT companies need to adopt innovative pricing strategies that cater to the economic realities of their customers. Offering flexible payment plans, affordable data bundles and value-added services can attract and retain customers even in challenging economic times. Additionally, investing in digital literacy programs can empower more Nigerians to participate in the digital economy, expanding the customer base and driving demand for ICT services.

    A sustainable ICT industry in Nigeria hinges on a collaborative effort between the government, private sector, and civil society. Nigeria can unlock the full potential of its ICT sector by addressing the existing challenges and fostering an enabling environment. This will not only drive economic growth but also empower its citizens, bridge the digital divide, and position Nigeria as a leader in the global digital age.

    •Don Pedro Aganbi,

    getdonpedro@gmail.com

  • For Wole Soyinka @ 90

    For Wole Soyinka @ 90

    • By Professor Ladipo Adamolekun

    Sir: Hearty congratulations on your 90th.  “Your mental and physical energy at 80 hint that Nigeria and humanity will continue to benefit from your contributions for another two decades, at least!” I am delighted that the hope that I expressed in my brief message to you 10 years ago became reality. Your on-going annual teaching and mentoring stint for New York University (NYU) in Abu Dhabi is a highly commendable intergenerational knowledge transfer at the international level.  May Nigeria and humanity continue to benefit from your contributions for another decade! 

    Read Also: Minister receives freed journalists abducted in Kaduna, commends NSA

    I first met you on your hospital bed in UCH in October or November 1965 in the company of two or three Ibadan student activists. I no longer remember how your message reached us. You charged us to disrupt the November 1965 University’s Convocation that Prime Minister Tafawa Balewa had committed to attend.  You correctly considered him responsible for the prevailing chaos in Western Nigeria at the time.

    You’ve maintained your passionate crusade for social justice over the decades. Our phone conversation on September 25th 2010 is unforgettable:  

    “Diary entry, September 26th 2010: In a phone conversation of September 25th, WS explained his continued political activism (convention of his political party was held on that day) as follows: “Ki won le wi nipa t’emi pe mo se won ti mo le se,”

    I salute your courage and humanity.

    •Professor Ladipo Adamolekun,

    Fairfax, Virginia, USA.

  • TASUED tragedy and need to enhance campus security

    TASUED tragedy and need to enhance campus security

    SIR: On Wednesday July 10, in a shocking and tragic incident, a final-year student of Tai Solarin University of Education, TASUED, Ijagun, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, was brutally murdered by suspected cultists on campus.

    Hammed Fabiyi, a 400 level final year student of History and Diplomatic Studies, was, outside the institution’s examination hall, brutalised and bludgeoned to death. This heinous act has sent shockwaves throughout the state, highlighting the urgent need for improved security on all Ogun State campuses.

    The university management while confirming the incident in a statement explained that Fabiyi was targeted by cultists who pretended to be celebrating his birthday with other colleagues. Despite prompt intervention by security personnel, the assailants escaped, leaving Fabiyi severely injured. He later succumbed to his injuries while being transported to the hospital.

    This senseless killing has sparked outrage and calls for action. The Students’ Union has condemned the attack, decrying the state of security on campuses nationwide. The Ogun State Police Command has launched an investigation, raiding suspected cultist hideouts and vowing to apprehend those responsible.

    It is important to urge the Ogun State Government to conduct a thorough probe into this incident, ensuring that justice is served and measures are taken to prevent such tragedies in future. The state government must prioritize campus security, provide adequate resources and support to protect students and staff.

    In fact, to forestall such occurrences on campuses the government and various institutions must look into installing gates, metal detectors, fences and doors with electronic access control systems, including biometric scanners and smart cards. CCTV surveillance cameras must be installed in strategic locations including classrooms, corridors and parking areas, while trained security guards are hired to patrol the campus and respond to incidents. Panic buttons, sirens and public address systems as well as encourage anonymous reporting of suspicious activities or threats by students among other security measures must be embraced.

    Read Also: TASUED suspends exams over killing of 400-level student

    The killing of Hammed Fabiyi is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by cultism and criminal activities in our educational institutions. Engaging in violent activities puts perpetrators lives at risk, as well as the lives of those around them, it can distract from academic goals, leading to poor performance and missed opportunities, it can lead to expulsion, making it hard to continue education or find employment, the act is a waste of potentials, talents and skills, which could be used for positive impact.

    By avoiding involvement in killings and cult activities, youths can protect their future, relationships, and personal growth, while contributing to a safer and more positive community.

    We cannot afford to let our guard down. It is time for decisive action to safeguard our campuses and ensure a secure environment for learning.

    We call on the government, university management, and security agencies to work together to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the killing of Hammed Fabiyi and ensure deterrence. Security measures must as a matter of urgency be enhanced on all Ogun campuses, including increased surveillance, patrols, and emergency response systems. Effective strategies must be implemented to combat cultism and criminal activities in educational institutions. Support and counselling services must be provided for students and staff affected by this tragedy.

    Let us unite to ensure that our campuses are safe havens for knowledge and growth, where students can pursue their dreams without fear of violence or harm.

    My heartfelt condolences go to the family of Hammed Fabiyi, the bright and promising young life brutally cut short by senseless violence. Here’s praying that the family find the strength and courage to navigate this difficult time.

    • Dayo DaSilva (arpa, amncs) dsvmediaoutfitltd@yahoo.com
  • Minimum wage: Time for expedited action

    Minimum wage: Time for expedited action

    SIR: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, during his speech on Democracy Day, June 12, mentioned that the bill on the new national minimum wage would soon be forwarded to the National Assembly. One would have thought that by now it would have been resolved. However, to the dismay and frustration of many, the matter still lingers. The matter was stepped down at the Federal Executive Council to allow the government further consult with stakeholders. Critics have begun to question the federal government’s commitment.

    State governors have requested to be allowed to negotiate minimum wages with labour unions in their states using the cost of living in each state and the financial capacity of each state as parameters. This approach is used in some countries as financial strengths vary across states. This request was not well-received by the organised labour; they argued that the governors don’t have the power to negotiate the minimum wage. It is public knowledge that some state governments did not pay the N30,000 minimum wage for years; citing an inability to pay. The Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of many states is low; a situation worsened by the increasing insecurity.

    Nonetheless, while the federal government continues to tackle the country’s security challenges, state governments should work on improving their IGR, eliminating, waste, and prioritizing workers’ welfare.

    One would wonder when Nigerian workers will begin to receive the new national minimum wage, given that an amount has yet to be agreed upon. Any amount agreed still requires approval by the Federal Executive Council, passage by the National Assembly, and finally, assent by the president. Only then can the new minimum wage be implemented. Where adequate provision was not made in the budget, a supplementary budget will be required. The timeline for this process remains uncertain.

    An increase in the minimum wage would be beneficial to the nation as it would boost workers morale, reduce brain drain and stimulate economic activities. Many businesses are struggling as household consumption has dropped drastically due to low purchasing power of workers. Skilled professionals have left Nigeria in drones in search for greener pastures. Better wages would also reduce financial pressure, which sometimes pushes people into criminal activities, and motivate workers to be more productive, which include our security agents. Therefore it will aid in reducing insecurity and increasing the Gross Domestic Product in the long run.

    The organized private sector should also recognize that a wage hike would positively impact them by increasing innovation and productivity, reducing staff turnover, and decreasing the temptation for staff to commit fraud. Multinational companies understand the benefits of paying employees well. To get the best from employees, they need to feel cared for, and there needs to be an alignment between the strategic goals of the organization and the personal goals/needs of the employees for organizational success.

    Read Also: Minimum Wage: Tinubu’s meeting with Labour ends, resumes next week

    The welfare of the citizens is one of the core responsibilities of the government. The federal government, which is at the driver’s seat in the minimum wage negotiation, should expedite the negotiation process as workers are frustrated and struggling to survive; unable to cater their basic needs like food, rent, hospital bills, and school fees.

    While striving for a living wage, organised labour should also be reasonable in its demands and acknowledge the financial capacity of the organized private sector and federal, state, and local governments. The Nigerian economy is not at its best, and thus government and business finances are constrained. The goal should be to achieve the best affordable and sustainable wage.

    A hike in the minimum wage will benefit workers, the government, the organized private sector, and the nation at large. The welfare of the citizens is a critical role of the government. The federal government should therefore match its words with action. The time is now.

    • Kenechukwu Aguolu  FCA, Abuja.
  • Contentment: Inspiring tale of Citizen Femi

    Contentment: Inspiring tale of Citizen Femi

    SIR: The actions of Anjola Femi, a young Nigerian who returned $14,000 worth of Solana cryptocurrency, shine brightly as a beacon of integrity and contentment. His story offers a compelling lesson, especially relevant in these uncertain times, about the enduring power of ethical behaviour and the true essence of contentment.

     Picture this: a mistaken transfer deposits a staggering $14,000 worth of Solana into his digital wallet. In the speculative world of cryptocurrencies, such an unexpected windfall could easily lead many to rationalize keeping the money. Yet, for Femi, the path was clear—he returned the funds to their rightful owner. This decision, made without any expectation of reward or recognition, speaks volumes about his character and his deep-seated belief in doing what is right. Amidst the economic turmoil and social pressures of today’s world, Femi’s actions remind us of the profound value of contentment and moral integrity.

    Read Also: Unknown gunmen: COAS vows to respond with force to protect citizens

    Anjola Femi’s decision to return the cryptocurrency is a testament to the power of contentment as a guiding principle. His actions demonstrate that contentment is not about the absence of ambition or challenges but about making ethical choices, even when faced with tempting alternatives. In returning the $14,000 worth of Solana, Femi exemplified the idea that contentment provides a moral compass, helping us navigate the complexities of life with integrity and grace.

    The story of Anjola Femi serves as an inspiring example for future generations. It emphasizes that success should not be measured solely by material gains but by the positive impact of our actions on others and society as a whole. In returning the cryptocurrency, Femi not only upheld his integrity but also contributed to a culture of trust and honesty. Trust, a foundational element of social cohesion, is often eroded by acts of dishonesty and greed. By choosing to act with integrity, Femi reinforced the importance of trust and ethical behaviour in our interconnected world.

    As we navigate the complexities and uncertainties of modern life, the story of Anjola Femi challenges us to seek contentment not in the accumulation of wealth or possessions but in the satisfaction of living a life grounded in ethical principles and true to our values. In doing so, we can find peace, resilience, and fulfilment, regardless of the challenges we may face.

    • Samuel Jekeli, Centre for Social Justice, Abuja.
  • Still on Gwoza suicide bombings

    Still on Gwoza suicide bombings

    Sir: On June 29, female suicide bombers targeted a wedding, subsequently a funeral and a hospital in Gwoza, Borno State causing at least 32 deaths and dozens of injuries. This series of coordinated attacks highlights the persistent threat and the urgent need for enhanced intelligence gathering and a stronger commitment from Nigerian security agencies. The attacks caused significant casualties and widespread fear, disrupting the period of relative calm in the region. The Nigerian Army reported that the insurgents had prepared 15 suicide bombers for Gwoza, but only three succeeded.

    Despite unwavering efforts by security agencies to contain these forms of emerging security threats, significant gaps and challenges still persist. Suicide bombings continue to occur. Intelligence failures remain a major issue.

    The clandestine nature of suicide bombings, often involving coerced or brainwashed individuals, makes them particularly challenging to detect and prevent. In some areas, local populations remain sympathetic to Boko Haram due to grievances against the government, corruption, and inadequate service delivery. This support provides cover and resources for insurgent operations. The Nigerian military and security forces are often overstretched and under-resourced, with limited funding, equipment shortages, and inadequate training impeding the effectiveness of counter-insurgency operations.

    The psychological toll of sustained violence on the population cannot be underestimated, as continuous exposure to bombings and insecurity exacerbates trauma and undermines community resilience.

    Read Also: Remains of Nigeria’s late Senate president Joseph Wayas arrive in Nigeria

    Addressing the persistent threat of suicide bombings requires a multi-faceted and adaptive approach. Investing in advanced surveillance technology such as drones and satellite imagery can improve situational awareness. Strengthening local intelligence networks and encouraging community-based reporting can also provide critical insights into insurgent activities. Building trust between security forces and local communities is essential. This can be achieved through transparent governance, addressing human rights abuses by security forces, and ensuring that communities benefit from economic development and social services.

    Expanding and improving de-radicalization and reintegration programs for surrendered fighters and at-risk individuals can reduce the pool of potential suicide bombers. These programs should be culturally sensitive and involve local religious and community leaders.

    Enhancing cooperation with neighbouring countries and regional bodies like the African Union can improve border security and disrupt insurgent supply lines.

    Long-term peace and security in Borno require addressing the root causes of the insurgency. This includes tackling poverty, unemployment, and lack of education through targeted development programs. The persistent threat of suicide bombings in Borno State underscores the need for a comprehensive review and revision of current security strategies. By addressing intelligence gaps, enhancing community engagement, and tackling the underlying socio-economic issues, Nigeria can create a more resilient and secure environment.

    • Kabir Ali Fagge,Abuja.

  • Averting looming crisis in public universities

    Averting looming crisis in public universities

    Sir: UNIBEN Students are at home in the middle of the academic session. The institution was shut down following a peaceful protest by the students. The demand was for electricity and water, two basic ingredients for a comfortable stay in school, or anywhere for that matter.

     The absence of electricity made the pumping of water impossible. Benin Electricity Distribution Company cut off power to the school for failure to pay its electric bill of N280 million monthly. This followed a 300 per cent increase earlier in the year.

    It is not however strictly a UNIBEN issue. Reports indicate that several federal universities are on the brink of a major crisis, with 52 institutions facing a potential collapse due to a steep increase in electricity tariffs. UNIBEN just happened to be the first to bite the bullet.

    This alarming situation has raised serious concerns among vice chancellors and educational stakeholders, who urgently call on the federal government to intervene.

    The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC)-sanctioned a 300 per cent increase in the tariff paid by Band A customers, from N68/KWh to N225/kWh is the culprit here. This decision affects federal universities located in areas designated as Band A, leading to a quadrupling of their monthly electricity bills.

    For instance, Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) in Zaria now faces an annual electricity bill of N4.4 billion, up from N1.2 billion. Similarly, the University of Ilorin’s monthly bill has surged from N70 million to N230 million, a situation the vice chancellor describes as “unsustainable.”

    Read Also: Despite rain, dignitaries, residents storm Olubadan palace commissioning

    The financial strain caused by the tariff hike is crippling university operations across the country. Many institutions are already struggling to meet their overhead costs, and the additional burden of increased electricity bills threatens to halt their activities entirely. Prof. Yakubu Ochefu, Secretary to the Committee of Vice Chancellors of Nigerian Universities (CVCNU), warns that if the federal government does not intervene, 52 federal universities may soon collapse.

    This would be an unfortunate development as Nigeria is already far behind in many educational indices and this could take the nation back decades.

     The CVCNU has proposed several solutions to alleviate the financial burden on federal universities. One of the primary suggestions is to move universities from Band A to a discretionary band with lower tariffs for educational establishments. This would allow universities to pay rates closer to what they previously paid, or only slightly higher, rather than the unsustainable commercial rates currently imposed – a sensible proposal, if ever there was one.

    Given the challenges with the current electricity supply, many universities are already exploring alternative power solutions. The University of Ilorin, for instance, is negotiating for alternative power supplies and incorporating provisions for these in new building designs. Energy-saving measures are also being implemented to reduce overall consumption.

    Transitioning to alternative power sources, however, requires substantial initial investment, which many universities cannot afford without government support. This highlights the need for a coordinated effort between the government and educational institutions to develop sustainable and cost-effective power solutions.

    The federal government has a critical role to play in resolving this crisis. First, there needs to be a review of the electricity tariffs imposed on educational institutions. As non-commercial entities providing essential public services, universities should not be subjected to the same tariffs as commercial customers. Implementing a concessionary tariff rate for universities is a necessary step to ensure their financial sustainability. This must be done immediately to forestall the domino effect of student protests.

     Additionally, the government should increase funding for the development of alternative energy sources in universities. Investing in solar power plants and other renewable energy solutions will provide long-term benefits, reducing reliance on Discos and lowering electricity costs.

     Lastly, the government must engage in meaningful dialogue with university administrators to understand their unique challenges and develop tailored solutions. This includes revisiting the funding model for federal universities to ensure they have the necessary resources to cover their operational costs without compromising the quality of education.

    The government must safeguard the future of higher education in Nigeria. It has to ensure that universities continue to function effectively and provide quality education to the nation’s youth. This is how to secure the future.

    •Elvis Eromosele, elviseroms@gmail.com

  • Harnessing potentials of Nigeria’s youth population

    Harnessing potentials of Nigeria’s youth population

    Sir: Nobel Laurette Professor Wole Soyinka once described Nigerians that belong to his age group as a wasted generation. This is probably true not only of Soyinka’s generation but also of the ones after it, including the millennials and Gen Z generations.

    How come a country like Nigeria with a very high population of youth is suffering in many areas where the youth are expected to utilize their energy to the country’s advantage?

    It is a case of abdication of responsibilities by successive generations. For instance, the cost of food items has skyrocketed beyond the reach of the ordinary man on the street because Nigerians abandoned agriculture a long time ago. Agriculture ought to be the backbone of our economy. It once occupied that position but this is no longer the case.

    Nigeria has all it takes to be a net exporter of food to other countries. There are arable lands where all types of foodstuffs can be cultivated in all 36 states of the federation. If young Nigerians were to be involved in agriculture, the country would have had more than enough food to eat and export to other countries.

    There is no shame in being a farmer. Farming ought to be inculcated in the school curriculum and made part and parcel of school programmes in primary and secondary institutions. This way, youths would imbibe the culture early in life. As a result, each state would concentrate on the crops that are favourable to its environment and the young ones would key into it. Yams, potatoes, cassava, fruits, maize and all sorts of grains and vegetables would be cultivated in different parts of the country.

    Read Also: INEC recognises Njoku-led APGA executive

    If the soil in Edo State favours cassava, palm trees, rubber, yams, rice and others the government should provide the enabling environment for the youths to engage in the cultivation of such crops. If the weather in Plateau State favours the cultivation of potatoes, millet, grains and what have you, then the government should get the youths engaged in the cultivation of such crops. This way, they would be self-sufficient in the cultivation of food and cash crops.

    It is not ideal for consumers to begin to wait for tomatoes, onions and okra to travel a distance of almost 1,200 kilometres before they can get these items to eat. This is absurd. Let states begin to beat their chest about the food they can put on the table for their people and not look at what they don’t have as the yardstick in measuring revenues and incomes.

    Former President Muhammadu Buhari once described Nigerian youths are a lazy set of people. In my opinion, Buhari is right and wrong. He is right because, by orientation, they have been brought up to believe in paper qualifications and white-collar jobs. When you go around the country, you will discover that the jobs that are supposed to be done by the youths are left for the elderly ones; as many youths see agriculture, for instance, as something beneath them. They think it is meant for the elderly and those who did not go through primary and secondary education.

    Take a look at construction sites littered across the country, all you can see are the elderly, while the youths are busy night and day fiddling with their phones, searching for mostly illegitimate opportunities to make money.

    But the former president is also wrong in the sense that there is nothing wrong with the Nigerian youths as human beings. They are just victims of the society that produced them. They are only exhibiting the kind of parental background, education and orientation that they passed through in their formative years.

    As it is often said with regards to computer programming, it is garbage in and garbage out; parents cannot give what they do not have, as they too lack the wherewithal to bring up children who are required to take the country to the next level in its development.

    •Isaiah Ted Omobude,Jos, Plateau State.