The Nation Newspaper

Category: Letters

  • Re: Exit, Finidi George

    Re: Exit, Finidi George

    Sir: Your robust editorial of Thursday June 27 about the quagmire the Nigerian male national football team has found itself as a result of the ‘utter confusion and seeming anarchy’ arising from the resignation of Finidi George refers. However, it is pertinent to review the list of the indigenous coaches that had little success with the national team.

    For the records, the late Shuaibu Amodu has no business in that list for the under mentioned reasons.

    As a nation, we have qualified for six world cup appearances and Amodu was involved in three out of the six successful qualification campaigns. He started the race for the 1998 World Cup before he was replaced by Frenchman Philipe Troussier who was later replaced by the ‘World Class’ Bora Milutinovic. The 2002 qualification was salvaged under his leadership together with the late Joe Erico and Stephen Keshi by pulling the ticket from the jaws of the disaster created by the Jo Bonfrere’s led technical crew. Amodu started and completed the 2010 qualification campaign before he was sacked as it happened in 2002 when he was replaced by Chief Adegboyega Onigbinde and Lars Largeback (who could not qualify Sweden for the 2010 World Cup) and of course those two World Cup appearances in 2002 and 2010 without the sacked Amodu remained our joint worst outings at the Mundial till date.

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    The late Shuaibu Amodu remains the only manager in world football that participated in three World Cup qualifications UNBEATEN and in addition to this unblemished record are the two podium finishes at AFCON in Mali 2002 and Angola 2010 with Bronze medals.

    Amodu remains one of the heroes past, the old national anthem was referring to, and it is expedient that his labour (though unpaid as the NFF still owes him till date) should not be in vain which was the focus of the enlightening editorial.

    •Opeyemi Ajala FCA,Lagos.

  • Cautious optimism as inflation rate slows

    Cautious optimism as inflation rate slows

    Sir: According to the National Bureau of Statistics, Nigeria’s headline inflation rate stood at 33.95% in May 2024, the highest level recorded in 28 years. However, there is a glimmer of hope as the month-on-month inflation rate has decelerated since March. The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Yemi Cardoso, attributed this decline to the effectiveness of the bank’s monetary policy measures; which includes an increase in the benchmark interest rate. The World Bank, however, has expressed scepticism about the hike in the baseline interest rate taming the inflation. The private sector also raised concerns that it would lead to a hike in business costs in an already hostile environment.

    One of the significant factors contributing to the deceleration of inflation is the drop in the exchange rate from nearly N2000 to about N1500. Also, the country is gradually feeling the impact of the reduction in diesel costs, thanks to the production and sales of diesel by the Dangote refinery. Diesel cost is a significant expense for businesses due to inadequate power supply by the government.   The decline in the purchasing power of individuals and the increase in the benchmark interest rate by the Central Bank of Nigeria (which is aimed at slowing demand, has reduced household consumption. Consequently, businesses are cautious about passing on costs to consumers, with some reducing their prices of goods and services to maintain sales.

    When the new minimum wage is finalized and implemented, the CBN may need to raise the benchmark interest rate further to minimize the demand-pull inflation it could cause. It should be noted that the benchmark interest rate has its downsides, as it increases government domestic borrowing costs. Therefore, it should be a carefully considered process, especially in a country like Nigeria with very high debt servicing costs to revenue ratio

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    It is important to note that the impact of the new electricity charges is gradually coming to bear on the prices of goods and services. For example, many hotels have increased their bills, citing the new electricity tariff. Additionally, the recent depreciation in the naira in the last few days, signals that the battle against inflation may not yet be won. The government should ensure further decline is not experienced.

    Nigeria’s inflationary woes cannot be solved through the central bank’s monetary policies alone if Nigeria aims to achieve sustainable long-term results. The country needs to increase its revenue and improve its trade balance by aggressively diversifying the economy. Agriculture, solid minerals, and tourism are some sectors that have not been fully harnessed. Nigeria should boost its oil and gas production, get its refineries functioning, and deal with its insecurity woes as soon as possible. The role of the political will of those at the helm of affairs cannot be over-emphasised

    An improved balance of trade will result in a stronger and more stable naira; thereby reducing inflationary pressures.  An increase in agricultural activities will also result in a drop in food inflation. The prices of diesel and premium motor spirit will drop significantly, if the local refineries are operational, and crude oil is supplied to them domestically. This has a far-reaching effect on the price of goods and services.

    While the headline inflation rate in May 2024 is concerning, the month-on-month decline since March 2024 provides some encouragement. In order to tame inflation in the long term, a comprehensive approach is required. This includes further monetary policy adjustments, economic diversification, ramping up oil production, and addressing insecurity. The political will of people at the helm of affairs is a critical success factor.

    •Kenechukwu Aguolu  FCA, Abuja.

  • Safeguarding academic freedom in Nigeria

    Safeguarding academic freedom in Nigeria

    Sir: Academic freedom is a fundamental pillar of higher education, ensuring lecturers can teach, research, and publish without undue interference. However, this freedom faces significant challenges. Despite being theoretically supported by the National Policy on Education, which grants universities the autonomy to select students, appoint staff, determine course content, and conduct research, academic freedom is often curtailed by government interference and the political climate.

    The history of academic freedom in Nigeria is marked by tension and conflict, particularly between the government and academic unions such as the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). The ASUU has frequently clashed with the government over issues related to academic freedom, working conditions, and funding for higher education. Strikes and protests have been common as academics fight for their rights and the independence of their institutions.

    A comparative perspective reveals that while the context differs, the United States faces challenges regarding academic freedom, primarily from political and legislative attempts to control university curricula and limit discussions on controversial topics such as Critical Race Theory. Despite these challenges, faculty members and university senates in the United States have been vocal in defending their academic freedom, passing resolutions, and publicly opposing restrictive legislation. This global struggle to protect academic freedom underscores Nigeria’s need for unwavering vigilance and relentless advocacy. Just as U.S. professors actively defend their rights, Nigerian lecturers must continue to advocate for their freedom and the autonomy of their institutions.

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    To safeguard academic freedom in Nigeria, several dynamic and proactive steps can be taken. Firstly, supporting academic unions and advocacy groups is essential. Strengthening the role of organizations like ASUU in defending academic freedom is crucial. Solidarity and collective bargaining can be powerful tools in negotiating with the government. Promoting policy reforms is also necessary to protect educational institutions’ autonomy and educators’ rights to teach and research freely. Ensuring that educational policies align with the principles of academic freedom is critical.

    Moreover, raising public awareness about the importance of academic freedom through media campaigns, public discussions, and educational programs can be instrumental. Public support can significantly influence policy changes. Fostering international collaboration between Nigerian universities and their counterparts globally is beneficial. Sharing best practices and supporting each other in defending academic freedom through international partnerships can provide Nigerian institutions with additional resources and visibility. Engaging policymakers to create environments that support academic freedom and resist efforts to control or influence academic content unduly is vital. Building relationships with supportive policymakers can help advance the cause of academic freedom.

    The importance of academic freedom for advancing knowledge and developing societies cannot be overstated. Nigeria can ensure that its educational institutions remain vibrant centers of learning and innovation when this freedom is safeguarded. The challenges faced in Nigeria and the United States highlight the universal need for continued vigilance and advocacy. If these steps are taken, Nigeria can uphold the principles of academic freedom and create a more just and equitable educational system.

    Imagine a Nigeria where universities thrive, unfettered by restrictive policies, and educators can engage students with a diverse and challenging curriculum. Picture a future encouraging academic inquiry, fostering innovation and critical thinking. This vision is within reach if we champion the cause of academic freedom. By uniting to protect the rights of lecturers and ensuring the autonomy of our academic institutions, we can cultivate a generation of thinkers, innovators, and leaders equipped to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.

    •Olukayode Apata, Texas A&M University, United States.

  • Nigeria, South Africa in dance of democracy

    Nigeria, South Africa in dance of democracy

    SIR: The swearing-in of Cyril Ramaphoza as president for a second term continues South Africa’s remarkable break from the past. One democratic transition has since succeeded another as Africa’s most iconic country has shown that it is possible to bounce back from the iniquitous indiscretions of apartheid with the latest being President Ramaphoza’s second term in office as a democratically elected president.

    It is also an incredible story of democracy’s triumph over fascism, especially racial fascism, and it’s enduring value as the best form of government for every society but especially one of many disparate parts and divides like South Africa.

    South Africa’s tortuous path to nationhood, democracy, and hope is also a luminous lesson for African countries which continue to tether on the brink of disaster, lurching from one avoidable crisis to another.

    In many African countries, dictatorship is on the rise, with the military seizing power, as has become rampant in many West African countries. Democracy continues to recede even in countries that are supposedly democratic, with high-handed leaders stripping away many of democracy’s flagship rights.

    South Africans pooled at the polls in May, but the election could produce no outright winner, forcing President Ramaphoza’s African National Congress to seek coalition with other parties. It was a demonstration of the delicate dynamics of democratic elections, and Africans living in Africa must seek free and free elections as a crucial part of their citizenship experience. This is because in many ways, a wholesome experience of good governance by the citizenship begins from the ballot box.

    Shortly after the inauguration, President Ramaphoza was pictured in an audience with Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. It was an iconic moment for democracy in Africa.

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    Nigeria is another African country where democracy is proving remarkably resilient.  In 2023, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was elected and sworn in as Nigeria’s 16th president. As a stalwart of democracy who was exiled as the country fought against a brutal military regime in the late 90s, President Tinubu was immediately faced with the coup in neighbouring Niger Republic. His sharp rebuke of the coup plotters and defence of democracy in the country indicated his unwavering belief in the enduring values of democracy.

    Both countries are giants of the African continent who have shared years of close collaboration and cooperation, especially in the economic and democratic fronts. The two countries are also sterling examples of the fact that democracy can survive and thrive in Africa. In a continent where the forces of tyranny are fast closing in, this example is especially existential.

    As Nigeria and South Africa celebrate crucial democratic milestones, the hope is that other African countries will toe the path of democracy to lasting peace and prosperity for their long-suffering people.

    • Ike Willie-Nwobu, Ikewilly9@gmail.com
  • When will succour come to the Almajiri?

    When will succour come to the Almajiri?

    Sir: It is embarrassing that the nation of the Almajiri is still left to survive on its own as it is completely abandoned to perish. Already, the north is doomed under the destructions of lives and properties perpetrated by the brutish bandits and insurgents. Is the Almajiri not capable of becoming a security risk if this uncaring attitude persists?

    The severe pains and anguish of the Almajiris have continued to manifest in our regional decay. For instance, dogs are better treated than the Almajiris in many urban centres in the north.

    I fervently pray that one memorable day, northern governors and our traditional rulers will synergize, deploy a strong political will and unanimously agree to save the Almajiri and offer him a new lease of life. At least, the measure can be a proactive exercise against the deteriorating insecurity in the north.

    We are living in a fool’s paradise trying to beautify the north with magnificent edifice and other infrastructures when the poor Almajiris are continuously becoming the wretched of the north. This wretchedness is ubiquitous and occupying the physical space of our region.

    By and large, the reconstruction of the north begins with the reconstruction of the dejected Almajiri. He deserves a befitting social reformation to meet the social requirements for a decent living. He is capable of moving the north forward if his potentials are fully tapped. The despised class of the Almajiri consists of about 10 million people according to the UNICEF.

    But who really cares for the Almajiri?  The ‘Almajiri nation’ does not do well for our collective survival and prosperity.

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    Human capital requires proper harnessing for the development of a people. Yet, the Almajiri human capital is plundered in the north with impunity. Those who are guilty of this gross child abuse and those who can avert them are answerable to Allah. The Almajiri owes us the obligation of reconstructing his mind, body and soul. The institutions of love, piety and care are lacking in his existence. Who can respond to his emotional feelings and strengthen his faith in genuine citizenship?

    Interestingly, there are many sonorous voices of diverse interests renting the air. But the Almajiri voice is missing and deliberately muzzled, lacking the ability to defend, prosper and raise himself against the onslaught of parental, societal and governmental negligence. The uncared Almajiri is a casualty of a dysfunctional system that exposes him to dangers. Sadly, the default and questionable system that puts him at great risks is allowed to thrive and celebrate our social irresponsibility. Islamic teaching does well for the wellbeing of all categories of children.

    •Abdu Abdullahi,aaringim68@gmail.com

  • Nigeria, a poor country?

    Nigeria, a poor country?

    Sir: Prime Minister Winston Churchill had concluded after rebuilding of the Britain’s House of Commons bombed during the Second World War saying: ‘We shape our buildings and afterwards our buildings shape us’.

    It’s often said that your pet dog answers you by the name you call it. Poor people exist all over the world whether in developed or developing country. That doesn’t mean that poverty is a blessing or that God has purposely made some of her children poor. So many circumstances, conditions and environmental hazards contribute in making some people poor. Notwithstanding, a lot of people would hardly accept poverty even when they could hardly eat. Conversely, it does seem that Nigeria revamps with the status of “a poor country”.

    The presidential aide, Bayo Onanuga had explained that the wealth of Nigeria is overestimated. The renowned economist, governor of Anambra State, Chukwuma Soludo supported the claim that Nigeria is a very poor country.

    Africa is home to a large proportion of the world’s poorest people with many of them facing economic, political and social challenges. Poorest people in the world in terms of standard of living are in Africa. Most people in Africa lack access to basic services like sanitation, education and health care. The poorest countries in Africa include Burundi, South Sudan, Central African Republic, Malawi, Mozambique, Niger, DR Congo, Liberia, Madagascar, and Guinea Bissau. These countries struggle with high levels of poverty and inequality. Many in these countries face poverty, malnutrition, disease and political instability.

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    In 2023, the World Poverty Clock included Nigeria amongst nations with greater number of poor people exceeding 70 million. Of course, criticism and complaint cannot make many people happy but everyone is complaining. Nigerians grumble, gripe and complain knowing fully that their hardship and suffering is man-made, artificial which in turn affect their attitude and outlook. Judging Nigeria as a poor country which has a debt profile of over N100 trillion accumulated under six years misses the point. The former CBN governor, Godwin Emefiele is currently being asked to forfeit property worth N12 billion when the population of the entire country is just 200 million. The crude oil theft runs into billions of naira. The vast arable land of the North is under siege due to insecurity causing food price inflation. There are other rich mineral deposits: gas and other materials in various places in the country which may not be accounted for.

    Economists and leaders all over the world put heads together to fight poverty and end hardship. The United Nations defined poverty as a denial of choices and opportunities, a violation of human dignity. A country where rules and by-laws are neglected, allowing the rich and mighty to do whatever pleases them, would not only have poor citizens but would become a poor country. It’s often said that the government, NGOs and the international organizations are making efforts to tackle poverty in the poor African countries but these efforts are many a times sabotaged.

    Nigerians would not let anyone bamboozle them with distortions and half-truths. The national cake shared amongst politicians is enough to guarantee the basic needs of the citizen, create a functional society with basic amenities, and make the country a wealthy nation. Joy fades, hopes dim, purposes are disappointed, there’s an overwhelming sense of failure and life seems over to many but we are not giving up. In spite of the ever increasing suicide rates, the mental health crisis and the frightening divorce statistics being reported all over the country, Nigerians are optimistic.

    It’s hard to trust the government or journalists. Employees hardly trust employers. Customers don’t trust businesses and we don’t even trust weather reports in Nigeria but freedom would come at last. Nigerians suffer hardships, experience sorrows and griefs but they can never be acquainted or intimate with them.

    •Obiotika Wilfred Toochukwu,Awgbu, Anambra State.

  • On report of jihadists flooding Nigeria

    On report of jihadists flooding Nigeria

    Sir: On June 21, there was a newspaper report about Jihadists flooding Nigeria through Benin Republic published by a Dutch think-tank, the Clingendael Institute which is said to have done extensive research in the Sahel. It says an al-Qaida-linked group had crossed from Benin and settled in Kainji National Park in Niger State, once a flourishing tourist destination.

    In the organization’s website, the 76-page report authored by Kars de Bruijne and Clara Gehrling, released on June 18 titled Dangerous Liaisons: Exploring the risk of violent extremism along the border between northern Benin and Nigeria, came from four quantitative datasets of over 70 interviews with key informants interviews (KII) along the border.

    The report is not only timely but a much-needed information that holds significant potential for enhancing our national security and resilience. 

    Among those who gave the research team support and advice in Nigeria was our own reputable professor of History, Murtala Ahmed Rufa’i of the Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, who had done a decade of extensive research on armed banditry in Zamfara State that culminated in a published book, I am a Bandit.  In validating the report, I spoke with a contact in the Republic of Benin’s L’Université de Parakou with contiguous border with Nigeria’s Borgu who also confirmed the security situation in and around their borders from some security officials working along borders with Nigeria, Burkina Faso and Niger. 

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    According to this contact, he said the three Beninese’s northern regions of Alibori, Atakora and Borgou are having mixed experience of the armed groups. Though Borgou was safe but Atakora bordering Burkina Faso and Togo was not safe from terrorist groups and Alibori bordering Niger, Nigeria and Burkina Faso, which is the focus area in this context, is not safe from armed groups.

    Interestingly, the three sub-regions share some structural conditions that generate political violence and terrorism. The political instability in the Central Sahel’s Mali, Burkina Faso Niger that ECOWAS is also coping with is a direct result of armed groups. Military coups are toppling democratic governments, and thereby changing the geopolitical landscape of the region among global superpowers.

    Thus the latest inflow of terrorists and violent extremists is worrying and gives the border communities a feeling of déjà vu. The porous regional borders have proved a security curse since their creation by the colonialists, and a cog in the wheel of community integration and economic cooperation. The ECOWAS citizens along the borders live in fear and despondency. There have been some inter-border community clashes and maltreatment of Nigerian nationals along the Segbana-Tsamiya border in Kebbi State.

    In Nigeria in particular, the report is coming on the heel of excruciating pains and suffering of residents living along the borderlines and beyond from violence and maltreatment perpetrated by bandit groups in Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Kaduna and Niger states.

    No doubt, the arrival of the armed group portends more expanded operations for the military. The exponential inflow of criminals does not augur well for the counter-insurgency campaigns of the military. Ordinarily, the cross-border movement by criminals would have been nipped in the bud by the immigration service, the police and intelligence agencies. It does speak to our inability to halt armed groups, as it is emblematic of our national borders’ porosity and weakened policing and intelligence. It seems to me Nigeria is fighting a nationalist war while the invaders are fighting an existential war to destabilise the region and Nigeria in particular.

    As the Nigerian military records daily successes on its anti-banditry and counter-terrorism operations by killing of insurgents and rescuing of victims, it is crucially important for all hands to be on deck to strengthen the border security efforts and enhance coordination among security agencies. This shines light on immigration and intelligence services. The infiltrations typically portrayed weak border management.

    Bandits and terrorists do not respect borders, let alone e-passports. So effective surveillance with modern technology is the pathway to fortify the borders. There is constant need to prioritise intelligence and information sharing and prompt response to identify risks, threats and vulnerabilities. More emphasis should be placed on border management and true actualization of the ECOWAS Protocol of Free Movement. The protracted and bitter insurgency should stop.

    •Dr. Olalekan Augustine Babatunde Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, Abuja.

  • Still on the local government autonomy debate

    Still on the local government autonomy debate

    SIR: The quest for local government autonomy in Nigeria is caused by the urgent developmental objectives; the be-all-and-end-all of which is the progressive amelioration of multi-dimensional poverty of overwhelming majority of Nigerians.

    We must however understand that in a state, military or federal, the autonomy of the lower tiers of government can never have absolute expression or import. It is relative, however, whatsoever. The suit instituted by the attorney general of the federal republic of Nigeria, against the thirty-six states of the federation, on the interpretation of the provisions of the constitution of Nigeria on local government autonomy, is outside the scope of this discourse. My concern is not the judicial interpretation or construction of the respective constitutional provisions. What is my concern here, is what ought to be the constitutional provisions as regards autonomy for the local government tier in Nigeria. And not, parse, what, at present, are the respective constitutional provisions. Whether or not the respective provisions of the constitution are desirable in the pursuit of the developmental objectives is an issue that ultra-vires, beyond the authority of the Supreme Court or any other court. This is a matter ultimately within only the purview of the legislature, by the way of the constitutional amendment powers vested in the legislature.

    There are various arguments for and against local government autonomy in Nigeria. However, what many scientists make oversight of is the cardinal ground for our submission here; and it is that the formulation of governance model, or constitution, is experimental. Accordingly, in the overall analysis of the governance experience of Nigerians, our conclusion is that local government should be given such extent of autonomy as full as practicable. This would deepen democracy, and would amount to empowerment of the people, in this ultra-capitalist system that Nigeria is. The local government councillors should have substantive legislative powers over the local government budget, award of contracts of any amount, remuneration, salaries, wages and remuneration of local government officials in each local government, construction of roads, determination of levies and fees for provision of social services. However, can each local government be given full powers over primary education, employment of primary school teachers, promotion and remuneration of teachers, formulation of curriculum of primary education, primary health care services, etc.?

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    The matter of local government autonomy in Nigeria requires holistic analysis of constitutionalism and development, together. The federal government is advised to organize a national conference on local government administration in Nigeria; as well as set up an ad-hoc commission of about 10 experts on local government administration, including experts on jurisprudence, development economics, political economy and sociology. A special input of the Institute of Chartered Local Government and Public Administrators, must be mandated. Local government autonomy can only be functionally relative and a balance has to be struck, after classical consideration of the contemporary socio-economic and political circumstances of Nigeria. It is, in the over-all analysis, the over-centralization of powers in the central, the so- called federal government that necessitates, the relative autonomy of the local government. Otherwise, in a truly federal system, the state government, that is the government of the constituent unit, each has full control of its local governments, invariably.

    • Eni-Iyi Ojekunle Wasiu (Mcpa.) wasiuojekunle15@gmail.com
  • Revitalising Nigeria’s economy

    Revitalising Nigeria’s economy

    SIR: A key component of transforming Nigeria’s economy is the reorientation of both citizens and leaders. As management expert Peter Drucker famously said, “Culture eats strategy for breakfast.” For Nigeria to thrive, a culture of unity and patriotism must be deeply embedded within society. The National Orientation Agency has a crucial role to play in this regard.

    Accurate demographic data is essential for effective planning. Nigeria’s last population census was conducted in 2006, making it imperative for another one. In addition to conducting a population census, a robust system should be established to register new births, ensuring that population data remains current. Population census should be held at least every 10 years to facilitate informed planning.

    Diversification of the economy is another critical area that requires urgent attention. Sectors such as mining, agriculture, and tourism remain largely untapped, presenting significant opportunities to increase the country’s revenue base and improve its balance of trade. Diversifying the economy will also help stabilize the currency, reduce unemployment, and lower poverty rates, fostering overall economic resilience.

    Improving the country’s tax revenue to gross domestic product(GDP)ratio is essential for sustainable economic growth. In 2023, this ratio stood at a mere 9.4%, which is very low by international standards. To address this, Nigeria should focus on widening its tax net, enforcing tax compliance, and possibly increasing certain taxes. These measures will enhance government revenue and enable more robust public investment.

    Nigeria has a significant infrastructure deficit that hampers meaningful economic development. The lack of adequate power increases the cost of business, causing companies to lose their competitive edge. The government should Improve the road and railway infrastructure to ensure efficient movement of goods and people. Additionally, more fully operational seaports are needed to alleviate the long-standing issue of port congestion, which has caused substantial business losses due to delays in clearing goods.

     The government should encourage economic activity and empower individuals to pursue innovative ventures by offering low-interest loans to aspiring entrepreneurs and small businesses. Additionally, recapitalizing banks is essential to strengthening their ability to support economic growth, especially considering the devaluation of the Nigerian currency.

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    The civil service, forming the backbone of governance and playing a crucial role in policy formulation, implementation, and public service delivery, requires transformation. Addressing the current challenges within the civil service is essential for enhancing governance and effectively implementing reforms. The condition of the civil service significantly impacts the economy.

    Eliminating corruption and waste in governance will significantly reduce the cost of government operations. The government should champion value-for-money audits to assess the economy, efficiency, and effectiveness of transactions. Strengthening internal controls and ensuring that anti-graft agencies are effective are crucial in safeguarding public assets from theft and fraud. It should ensure that whistle-blowing policy encourages and protects whistle-blowers as it will help curb corruption.

    Proper remuneration of workers is vital for improving productivity, fostering innovation, and reducing brain drain. Nigeria has experienced a mass exodus of skilled professionals in recent years. As the government concludes the process of setting a new national minimum wage, it must ensure that the minimum wage is adequate taking cognizance of current economic realities

     Governments should allocate funds judiciously, focusing on critical priorities rather than indulging in misplaced spending. Adopting a scale of preference facilitates informed decision-making, enabling authorities to allocate resources strategically based on identified needs and desired outcomes.

    Revamping Nigeria’s educational system is crucial. It requires aligning the curriculum with national strategic goals and ensuring access to quality education for all. This reform must prioritize equipping students with relevant skills for a modern economy, fostering innovation, and embracing technology adoption.

    The security situation in Nigeria represents a significant drain on resources that could otherwise be allocated to productive endeavours. Insecurity disrupts economic activities like mining, agriculture, and tourism and deters foreign direct investment (FDI) needed for economic growth. Addressing these security challenges is paramount for Nigeria to attain sustained economic prosperity.

    Despite the savings from removing fuel subsidies and adopting a floating exchange rate for the naira, Nigeria still faces significant financial challenges primarily due to the substantial of servicing its debts. These high debt servicing obligations severely constrain the government’s ability to finance crucial development projects that could stimulate economic growth and improve societal well-being. To alleviate this fiscal burden and create room for sustainable development, the government should pursue aggressive strategies for debt relief or restructuring.

    • Kenechukwu Aguolu FCA, Abuja.
  • The imbroglio over minimum wage

    The imbroglio over minimum wage

    Sir: Since the inception of President Tinubu’s administration over a year ago, the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) under Comrade Joe Ajaero, had not only been combative, but has also worn the garb of a foe with an axe to grind with the government.

    Perhaps one thing that baffles many Nigerian intelligentsia about Comrade Ajaero is that after many years of tutelage under redoubtable labour leaders, he doesn’t seem to be emotionally and socially mature for the position of the labour president.

    When the pressure is on, great leaders are at their best. Whatever is inside them comes to the surface. Since 1945, when the first nation – wide strike took place, masterminded by the indomitable Nigeria’s No 1 Labour Leader, Pa Michael Moudu, the labour leadership has refused to shed the garb of belligerence and brinkmanship in their dealings with government over negotiations of either their rights or minimum wage for workers.

    A tradition is usually difficult to uproot, especially if it has some very survival values and trending. But while NLC combativeness under colonial rule could be tolerable, under this present dispensation, it amounts to lack of feelings and clear insensitiveness to both the plight of Nigeria and its more than 200 million citizens.

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    A thinking labour leader would have considered all these historical anomalies that constitute the cog in Nigeria’s wheel of progress, to negotiate for a reasonable minimum wage for workers. What is the percentage of the Nigerian workers to the rest population such that all the earnings by the government would now be used as payment of minimum wage for less than 1% of the Nigerian population?

    Government exists everywhere to protect people’s lives and properties, create job opportunities for the citizens, provide social amenities for the people and safeguard their fundamental human rights through maintenance of the country’s territorial integrity from external invasion and internal insurrection.

    Given the nation’s limited resources and especially paucity of foreign exchange earnings, any unreasonable minimum, wage will further sink the country’s torturing ship now cascading on the ocean of lack of foreseeable recovery. There is nowhere in the world where a minimum wage of N30,000.00 will suddenly jump to N494,000.00 as being demanded by Comrade Ajaero and his mindless colleagues in the Nigerian Labour Congress.

    At the approved N62,500.00 minimum wage by the government, more than 100% increase from the previous wage, what the country needs is aggressiveness of agricultural production and not the basket full of money that chases non – existence food items.

    •Sunday Olagunju,Ibadan.