The Nation Newspaper

Category: Letters

  • Nigeria’s economic struggles and international trap

    Nigeria’s economic struggles and international trap

    • By Matthew Alugbin

    Sir: Most third-world countries have, with open eyes, walked into the trap set by international bodies, and it seems it is now obvious that it is Nigeria’s turn. Since the days of Structural Adjustment Programmes (SAP) in Nigeria, the hope of economic freedom has been at the mercy of international bodies. And only a wise and courageous leader will see the affliction of his people and lead them out of this economic slavery, departing from the oppressive tendencies of the past and guiding them towards true economic independence. Failure to identify and address key developmental problems is a major challenge for most of these countries. This is not just about Nigeria, but Africa at large.

    Africa bears the weight of a disproportionate share of global poverty, with 30 of the world’s 40 poorest countries residing on its soil. This reality reduces most African nations to mere recipients of international aid, perpetually reliant on external assistance to address their development challenges. Nigeria, the supposed giant of Africa, is not immune to this phenomenon, despite its vast natural resources and economic potential.

    Nigeria’s alarming debt profile, which is rising every quarter based on the data by the Debt Management Office, threatens to suffocate the nation’s economy. A significant portion of the country’s revenue is being drained away by debt servicing, and this leaves precious little or nothing for vital public services and development projects. This debt trap is a clever tool wielded by creditors to drain the continent’s resources. As the debt situation tightens, Nigeria will be forced to surrender to the dictates of its creditors and cede control over its economic destiny. The nation’s future is being mortgaged to service debts rather than investing in its people and their prosperity. Such a trajectory must be stopped to prevent Nigeria from becoming a state permanently at the mercy of international donors. Despite the alarming debt profile and economic challenges, Nigeria continues to embark on a borrowing spree. It has become an integral part of the country’s political economy, with foreign aid becoming an indispensable crutch.

    Read Also: EFCC secures 3,175 convictions, recovers N156b in one year

    Nigeria, despite being one of the world’s largest oil producers, has struggled with domestic fuel scarcity and high pump prices. The IMF has repeatedly pushed for the removal of fuel subsidies, arguing that they are a drain on public resources and encourage inefficiency. However, the removal of these subsidies often leads to a sharp increase in fuel prices, which has a cascading effect on the economy. Higher fuel prices translate into increased transportation costs, which in turn drive up the prices of goods and services, exacerbating inflation.

    When President Bola Tinubu promised to widen the tax net and reduce the purchasing power of the people, he was essentially echoing the sentiments of Western economic ideologies. This approach aligns with the neoliberal agenda, which prioritizes market fundamentalism and fiscal austerity over social welfare and economic equality. Austerity measures, such as removing subsidies and increasing taxes, affect the poor and middle class the most. As it even stands in Nigeria, it is doubtful if the ‘middle class’ still exists.

    The IMF advocates for widening the tax base and increasing tax revenues as a means of improving public finances. While this seems to be a valid strategy in developed economies with substantial formal sectors, it is a big challenge in Nigeria, where the informal sector dominates. Efforts to increase taxation often lead to higher taxes on small businesses and individuals, who are already struggling to make ends meet. This can stifle entrepreneurial activity and discourage investments, further hindering economic growth.

    Nigeria must break free from these neo-liberal policies. The country must redirect its steps in making economic policies that will transform to better living for the people. This should from redirecting the economic orientation that is obviously failing. Let Nigerians breathe!

    •Matthew Alugbin,

    Edo State University, Uzairue.

  • Fintiri’s first year of second term

    Fintiri’s first year of second term

    Sir: State governors who excelled in their first term always start their second term smoothly, easily formulating policies and executing projects. Those who built significant infrastructure and implemented developmental programs in their first term tend to continue these practices in their second term. Governors who managed resources wisely during their first term enter their second term with a clear vision for completion and the legacy they wish to leave. Furthermore, those who developed effective human capital programs in their first term demonstrate quality leadership in their second term, focusing on the future well-being of their people. And, have quality leadership that uses its ‘today’ for people’s tomorrow.

    Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State is fortunate to belong to the category of state governors who excelled in their first term and continued with vigour in their second term.

    In the first year of his second term, Governor Fintiri has not only maintained the momentum from his first term but has elevated his performance to a level that political-development pundits describe as exceptional and transformational leadership.

    Pundits assert that no leader achieves exceptional and transformational leadership without visionary thinking, flexibility, decisiveness, results-orientedness, and a focus on the future.”

    Read Also: Fintiri appoints DG for Adamawa poverty agency, constitutes boards for others

    While it’s customary to assess a governor’s performance by listing their accomplishments in projects, programmes, and policies during their first or second term, simply enumerating Governor Fintiri’s endeavours over his five-year tenure would merely state the obvious. His projects, programmes, and policies already speak for themselves. The crucial task lies in understanding how the governor managed to pioneer new initiatives and impact all socio-economic sectors of Adamawa State’s economy while navigating the complex socio-political-economic landscape. Adamawa is a microcosm of Nigeria, where politics is ever-present, whether in governance or during political cycles.

    Fintiri’s approach aligns with what operations research scientists refer to as systems thinking. He applies both a series and parallel systems approach, yielding excellent results. Fintiri’s development strategy is series-oriented, where all his projects and programmes are interconnected. The urban renewal projects are interconnected, all programmes are aligned with all projects, and together, they span across every sector. Additionally, Fintiri’s policies are carefully synchronized, complementing the projects and programmes.

    The construction of hundreds of kilometres of roads across the states, the construction of five flyovers and underpasses in the capital city, and the building of 1000 housing units for 5,000 families are just a few components of a comprehensive strategy. Additionally, initiatives such as construction of well-equipped 60-bed five cottages hospitals, rehabilitation and equipping of specialist and general hospitals, the establishing of 21 model nursery and primary schools, and constructing six mega secondary schools are all interconnected efforts.

    Moreover, the distribution of N50,000 through Fintiri wallets to 100,000 people, the clearance of all pension and gratuity backlogs, and the introduction of Fresh Air Metro buses and Blue Bird school buses contribute to the overarching goals. Furthermore, the agribusiness programme, the construction of the Jimeta Stadium, the state-wide rehabilitation of water supply facilities, the construction of new Jimeta Shopping Complex and Yola town markets and redevelopment of other old ones, the foreign and local scholarship programmes, the skills acquisitions centres are interconnected to play a crucial role in enhancing economic, healthcare, human capital development, and education, improving accessibility, facilitating the efficient delivery of services, contributions to broader goals.

    Governor Fintiri’s systems thinking in development and the interconnectedness of projects, programmes, and policies have unprecedentedly scaled up the socio-economic growth and development of Adamawa and its people in just five years.

    •Zayyad I. Muhammad,Abuja.

  • Rivers: Plea for restoration and unity

    Rivers: Plea for restoration and unity

    Sir: As a citizen of Rivers State, I have watched from afar with growing concern as my beloved home has descended into a state of disarray and division. It is with a heavy heart and a deep sense of urgency that I call upon the president to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State. This drastic measure is necessary to address the severe and persistent issues that have plagued the state since 2015, and to pave the way for a brighter and more unified future.

    Since 2015, Rivers State has been fractured into two highly toxic factions. This division has not only polarized the citizenry but has also severely hampered governance and equitable development. The once vibrant and progressive state is now mired in a climate of animosity and dysfunction, where unconstitutional actions have often dictated governance. This is a stark departure from the principles of democracy and the rule of law, which should be the bedrock of our society.

    Read Also: Shettima leads dignitaries as Lamorde is laid to rest

    The suspension of four lawmakers loyal to the governor during plenary, the subsequent arson and demolition of the House of Assembly chamber, and the defection of other assembly members loyal to the Minister of the FCT have set the state on a roller coaster of confusion. There is a clear breakdown in legislative order. These actions seem to have rendered the state without a functioning legislature, plunging it further into a state of anarchy. Without a legislative body to provide checks and balances, the state is effectively without the necessary framework to ensure accountable governance.

    The current trajectory of Rivers State is alarming. The state’s descent into lawlessness and instability not only threatens the well-being of its citizens but also undermines the potential for any meaningful development. The toxic political climate has created an environment where progress is stifled, and the needs of the people are overshadowed by the relentless power struggles.

    Despite this bleak picture, there is a silent majority in Rivers State that remains apolitical and committed to the state’s progress. These individuals, who strive for development and prosperity, are stymied by the pervasive toxicity that has gripped the state. Their voices are drowned out by the cacophony of political infighting, leaving them powerless to effect the change that Rivers State so desperately needs.

    In light of these circumstances, I implore President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State. This intervention is critical to restore order, ensure the rule of law, and create an environment conducive to development and unity. A state of emergency would provide the framework to reset the state’s governance, allowing for the establishment of a functioning legislature and the implementation of constitutional actions.

     The people of Rivers State deserve a government that works for them, not against them. They deserve a state where development is spread equitably, and where governance is guided by the principles of democracy and the rule of law. By declaring a state of emergency, the president can help to restore sanity, promote development, and ultimately, heal the divisions that have torn Rivers State apart.

    It is time for bold and decisive action. The future of Rivers State hangs in the balance, and only through a concerted effort to address these deep-rooted issues can we hope to reclaim the state’s lost glory. Let us come together to support this call for a state of emergency, for the sake of our beloved Rivers State and its people.

    •Wabiye Dikio Idoniboyeobu (ANIPR)

    <fausty2006@gmail.com>

  • Drug trafficking: Web of deceit and destruction

    Drug trafficking: Web of deceit and destruction

    Sir: The recent arrest of a Paris-bound businessman who ingested 111 wraps of cocaine at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja and the busting of a drug trafficking syndicate at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos underscore the desperation and reach of drug cartels.

    As the efforts of the drug cartels once again ended in futility, we can’t help but acknowledge that the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), under the leadership of Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd), is making significant strides in disrupting drug trafficking operations. However, such arrests are a reminder that Nigeria has to do more, and the effort to tame the illicit drug menace requires a sustained and coordinated effort to dismantle trafficking networks within and across our national borders.

    Drug trafficking is a transnational crime that weaves a web of deceit and destruction, exploiting loopholes in international travel and trade. Criminal organisations have adapted to law enforcement strategies, using innovative methods to smuggle drugs, including ingesting or concealing them in everyday items like paint buckets, motor engines, speakers, etc. The rise of online marketplaces and cryptocurrencies has also enabled drug traffickers to operate anonymously and launder profits with ease.

    Read Also: Lamorde a soldier of anti-corruption, says EFCC chairman

    Nonetheless, NDLEA’s efforts have demonstrated Nigeria’s commitment to combating drug trafficking. All hands must be on deck to uproot the causes of this menace. The public needs to be aware that failure to act has negative ramifications because where trafficking goes unabated, there will be no end to drug abuse, which in turn leads to devastating consequences including health problems, family breakdown and social instability, among others. It also fuels criminal activities, corruption and violence, all undermining national security and economic development.

    To effectively dismantle illicit drug networks, governments, law enforcement agencies and international communities must collaborate and share intelligence to disrupt supply chains, extradite and prosecute drug traffickers and cut off financial lifelines by making sure all assets are forfeited to the government.

    Supporting demand reduction programmes like the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign launched by NDLEA in June 2021 and addressing social and economic factors that enable drug abuse are also crucial in the effort to stem the tide of the illicit drug menace.

    In conclusion, dismantling drug networks across borders requires a sustained and coordinated effort from the government, law enforcement agencies and international organisations. By adopting a comprehensive approach that addresses demand, improves border security and strengthens international partnerships, Nigeria can effectively curb the drug menace and ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens.

     •Olufemi Fadahunsi, Ado-Ekiti.

  • When politicians play chess with Kano Emirate

    When politicians play chess with Kano Emirate

    • By Ahmad Babangida Baba

    Sir: The recent political manoeuvres in the Kano Emirate have brought to light the troubling interplay between politics and traditional leadership in Nigeria. This situation has far-reaching negative impacts, destabilizing not only the emirate but also the broader socio-political landscape of Kano State.

    The Emirate of Kano, historically a bastion of cultural and traditional leadership, has increasingly become a pawn in political games. The initial deposition of Sanusi Lamido Sanusi by former governor, Abdullahi Ganduje in 2020, followed by the creation of four new emirates, was seen by many as a move to diminish the power and influence of the traditional emirate. Last week’s reinstatement of Sanusi further underscores how traditional institutions are being undermined by political interests.

    This erosion of traditional authority weakens the very fabric of the emirate, reducing the respect and legitimacy of the traditional rulers. The continuous political interference creates an environment where the emirs are seen as extensions of political parties rather than impartial custodians of culture and tradition.

    As it is, the manoeuvrings have not only destabilized the emirate but also sown discord among the people of Kano. It has created factions and divisions within the community that would be difficult to heal. Such divisions can lead to social unrest, as different groups feel marginalized or unfairly treated depending on which political faction they support.

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    The current situation in the emirate undermines trust in both the traditional and governmental institutions. The people of Kano are likely to view these institutions as tools for political manipulation rather than bodies working for their welfare. This distrust can lead to apathy and disengagement from civic duties, weakening democratic processes and governance.

    The involvement of prominent political figures like Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and the conflicting statements from different political actors exacerbate this distrust. When political leaders treat the emirate as a battlefield for their power struggles, it sends a message that the needs and voices of the people are secondary to political ambitions.

    The emirate should be a symbol of unity and cultural heritage, not a chess piece in political games. For Kano to thrive, both its political and traditional leaders must work towards fostering respect, stability, and genuine development for its entire people.

    •Ahmad Babangida Baba,

    Atapoly, Bauchi.

  • Nigeria’s crumbling prisons

    Nigeria’s crumbling prisons

    • By Ike Willie-Nwobu

    Sir: A tour through Nigerian prison shows where the country is in its dream of being a decent and dignified society.

    Dilapidated buildings, squalid conditions, overcrowding, non-existent hygiene, and everything else that can make one regret the day of their birth. When the nightmarish conditions of Nigerian prisons are factored into the fact that its extremely porous justice system ensures that many people go in for crimes they did not commit, the problem becomes a national emergency, a disaster waiting to happen. Disaster did happen on April 24 when the Suleja Correctional Facility collapsed under a rush of riotous rainfall, setting about 118 prisoners suddenly free, churning out an answer to their prayers in the process.

    For those looking out from prisons and those looking in from the outside, nothing has changed in the conditions of prisons and prisoners save for a name change- a correction that is anything but correctional, rather meant to castrate the fury of campaigners. Dignity does not condone half measures. Historically, anytime human dignity has been constrained to drops like bracken water from rusty old pipes, it has often died.

    Justice is necessarily the foundation on which any durable democracy must be built. However, for those who have to go to prison because justice dictates that they should, it does not have to be a death sentence in the literal sense of the phrase or the end to their dreams and humanity. The conditions in the prisons do not have to be such as to shock already weary prisoners into despair.

     One of man’s greatest attributes is the ability to surprise. The reason the human story is often brimming with warmth and wonder is that people have always shown that they can change. This has typically justified giving people a second chance, an opportunity to pick up the pieces, even if they hardly deserve the same. Prisons should be places where people are not only supported to reform and rehabilitate their lives but are encouraged to pick up the pieces, no matter how badly broken.

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    This means that the buildings and basics have to change. Like many other things in Nigeria, the prisons have suffered from the malaise of a poor maintenance culture. Many of the buildings are in poor and desperate conditions. Like the electricity infrastructure that crumble and call on darkness under the barest whiff of pressure from nature, many of the prisons are just waiting for the slightest pressure to crumble. Now that the rains are coming, the Nigerian authorities may want to look into the durability of the physical structures of the prisons.

    Then, it also bears asking: what usually becomes of those who go to prison in Nigeria? Do they become better or worse behind bars?

    Crime can be a bit cyclical in that once it works itself into a vicious cycle, as it so often does, it is almost impossible to curtail. Prisons where conditions are historically poor have been known to provide fertile breeding grounds for crime and the vices that become crime, ensuring that no one really changes for the better then.

    The less said about a country that cannot even properly contain and change its criminals the better, but the danger posed by prisoners let loose by the elemental forces of nature should be enough to jolt a slumbering country awake.

    •Ike Willie-Nwobu,

    Ikewilly9@gmail.com

  • E-Government and public sector responsiveness

    E-Government and public sector responsiveness

    By Ekpa, Stanley Ekpa

    Sir: The idea of public service delivery becomes defected, when citizens cannot have easy access to information and systems that enable them to communicate their needs, opinions, and suggestions to governments and their agents. Given the efficiency challenges faced by the Nigerian Postal Service, the primary agency that should have provided a cost-effective correspondence service for state-owned institutions, digital responses via email correspondence becomes a sustainable and cost-effective alternative, yet, most MDAs hardly maintain digital correspondence desks. 

    In a rapidly evolving digital era, where citizens transact through swift and automated technologies, citizens want governments to deliver more responsive, affordable and innovative public service to the people. When you consider this emerging reality, you will no doubt know that the future which started yesterday, needs a different model of public service delivery and responsiveness to social demands – an efficient public service delivery that runs 24 hours to meet the needs of human life at a speed of light.

    Those responsible to providing public goods and services must respond to citizens’ needs in good time and such response should be consistent with citizens requests and demands.

    In order to achieve the purpose of which the state and governments exist, the next generation government must be reliable, responsive, fast and closer to the people, in providing their needs through a flow of ease of citizens-public officials’ interactions. To create such future public service efficiency, emerging civil servants and public officials must appreciate the role of government in a different way from what we know our government to be today.

    The next generation of public sector leaders must understand that government must be available, innovative and digital, to satisfy public demands. Since almost every human transaction are now successfully switched to smart systems, the services of governments and their agents must swiftly switch to digital too, in order to be available to everyone, everywhere. Public services must be connected, integrated and made convenient for citizens to follow through without long hours of physical presence, necessitating long hours of trips and waiting on ques.

    The next generation civil servants and public officials are required to provide premium service to the general public. Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum set the goal, that “we want to our government to welcome customers more professionally than hotels; we want our government to manage processes better than banks”. This requires that public institutions have to hire citizens who are public and people-oriented, excellence driven and ready to provide them with the convenience and economic dignity that will enable them to do their work professionally.

    Read Also: Ondo 2024: Canvass for votes honourably, Aiyedatiwa tells opponents

    If almost all sectors of private enterprises are open for 24 hours, the next generation governments and their agents must deliver efficient and effective public services for 24 hours. Our government cannot afford to go on 5pm closure, knowing that the function of the government is to secure the life and social wellbeing of every citizen, irrespective what time of the day or night the “wellbeing” is needed. Human needs require round the cloth solutions; and so does the role of government.

    Perhaps, the more important route to achieving public sector responsiveness is public sector openness and transparency. We can start with questions on how accessible are agencies and states audit reports? How open and up to date are audit legal framework, and effectiveness of state assemblies and local government legislative arms to review reports of governance at the subnational and local government levels?

    Again, and every now, our collective attention seems to be fixed on the activities of the federal government alone, thereby leaving the subnational and local governments unaccountable. The next generation civil servants and public officials have a duty to know that the beginning of openness in governance is a culture that recognizes that there is no shame or foolishness in openness and transparency, even when it is inconvenient.  It does not matter if it is at the lowest level, we need responsiveness and accountability from every level of leadership.

    If smaller organizations can send regular newsletters to people on their mail list, government agencies have no excuse not to use digital channels to reach citizens on government policies, strategies, programmes, activities and resources utilization. This requires a Nigerian bureaucratic system that is truly responsive, sensitive, sympathetic and able to relate to the needs of citizens within a reasonable time. This will be the easiest way to building public trust, confidence and public participation in government processes.

    •Ekpa, Stanley Ekpa,

     via ekpastanleyekpa@gmail.com

  • Lamorde, EFCC brain box exits

    Lamorde, EFCC brain box exits

    Sir: Sunday morning, l was jolted from sleep by the sad news of lbrahim Lamorde’s passing.

    The departed was with the EFCC from the beginning, and was part of the trio of Ribadu and Magu whose activities made the EFCC the dreaded organisation for the corrupt and saboteurs of the nation’s economy.

    While Nuhu Ribadu held sway as the executive chair of the EFCC, Lamorde was the quintessential Director of Operations who handled and co-ordinated the field operations of the commission. He was the tried, tested and trusted ally of Ribadu, who in turn relied  on Magu of the Economic Governance Unit for effective investigations of the earliest high profile cases of corruption in that era. The departed was the “engine box” who spoke sparingly but was polite, effective and efficient. Warm, unassuming and accessible, Lamorde worked seamlessly with Ribadu as if both were Siamese twins.

    The early structures and personnel of the EFCC were put in place by himself and a few of the earliest pioneer staff of the commission under the leadership of the irrepressible Ribadu. The agency’s image soared and the fear of EFCC was the beginning of wisdom.

    When Nuhu Ribadu was eased out in controversial circumstances, Ibrahim Lamorde never betrayed the cause. He remained the silent investigation and intelligence officer committed to the war against corruption.

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    The departed was to return to EFCC after the inspiring stint of Farida Waziri as EFCC chair. He was brought back to the agency and appointed chair by the Jonathan administration. Again, he served diligently and effectively. The Buhari administration opted for Magu and Lamorde was redeployed back to the police where he served in the intelligence units and was serially promoted first as AIG and later to the position of a Deputy Inspector General before his dignified exit from service.

    I recall my last encounter with the deceased at his private residence at Abuja on a courtesy call. He was quite receptive and warm and seemed to be enjoying his retirement peacefully.

    During the encounter, we exchanged banters. He was without airs as usual, and actually walked me to the door as l made my way out after about one hour robust conversation.

    Many who encountered him will attest to his simplicity and sonorous voice, almost feminine voice.

    Lamorde was kind and gentle. He was courteous, accessible and accommodating. He made friends with the high and mighty.

    A man of few words, the departed was more of action than words.

    Adieu, lbrahim Lamorde, former chair of EFCC and a damn brilliant police officer.

    •Wahab Shittu, SAN,Lagos.

  • Attention, Oba Ghandi; Soun of Ogbomoso

    Attention, Oba Ghandi; Soun of Ogbomoso

    Sir: I applaud your royal majesty in attracting more glory to the ancient town of Ogbomoso and its environs. We pray most fervently that your labour shall yield the most rewarding dividends that will make generations of future of Ogbomosos and neighbouring people to remember Oba Olaoye Ghandi for good.

    This is to draw your attention to some market unions or trade associations that have formed themselves into illegal cartels for orchestrating upward manipulation of price goods in the town. To be factual, these associations are creating more harm than good to the socio-economic growth of Ogbomoso. Because, they would come together to determine what prices beans, gari, elubo, edu, palm oil, charcoal, agriculture products etc. should be sold and to determine that nobody in a particular market should take goods from any other person except members of their association. This in most cases lead to price gouging, anti-competitive conduct and some commercial issues that certainly contributes to the extremely high food prices, other commodities and services. The actions of these associations or a group or combination of businesses are affecting in diminishing free market competition is wrong and most unacceptable especially in town like Ogbomoso, with rising poverty, population and inflation.

    Read Also: NGO ramps up support for displaced community in Nigeria

    As a matter of fact, trade unions and market associations should know that they should promote commerce and not destroy trade. They are vital and important to business; they are important to the wellbeing of the society but there are limitations on what they should engage in. One of the most important limitations is the control of supplies or affecting trade and commerce in a manner that reflects in price.

    Recently, Oba (Dr.) Adesimbo Kilade, Jilo III, the Osemawe of Ondo due to the high cost of food items and commodities in his domain as a result of the abnormal traders activities declared Ondo markets free and open for every legal traders. Likewise, couple of weeks ago, Alayeluwa, Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran, the Owa-Obokun of Ijesa directed that no individual must be compelled or forced to join any trade association before he or she can engage in legal businesses of their choice. The cry of joy and pleasant remarks that followed the declaration by both Osemawe of Ondo and Oba Aromolaran is proof that people are extremely tired of the excesses of trade or market associations.

    Kabiyesi, the people of Ogbomoso too are tired of the abnormally high cost price of goods and services due to the monopolistic activities of many trade or market associations in the town. The citizens’ exploitation of fellow citizens through business or trade manipulation is a crime against humanity and God which these so-called trade unions are less concerned. There is no doubt, if we do not prioritise that, it will continue and it would affect the growth and development of our town. The purpose of competition regulation is to unlock the market and enable it to behave the way it should and let price be negotiated between a seller and a buyer, which is always the surest way to arrive at the fairest possible price.

    We call on your royal majesty to look into the plight of the people of Ogbomoso and if possible sir, you can use your good office as Osemawe and Oba Aromolaran did in their respective domains on abnormal activities of many trade unions and market associations in order to bring comfort to the people.

    • Sunday Ogunkuade Ogbomoso.

  • Ensuring that our children are safe online

    Ensuring that our children are safe online

    Sir: In today’s interconnected world, children are increasingly exposed to the vast landscape of the internet from a young age. While the digital realm offers boundless opportunities for learning, creativity, and social interaction, it also harbours numerous risks that can pose threats to children’s safety and well-being. From cyberbullying and online predators to exposure to inappropriate content, the online world presents challenges that parents and caregivers must navigate to ensure their children’s safety.

    As children immerse themselves in the online world at increasingly younger ages, the need to safeguard their digital experiences has never been more critical. While the internet offers unparalleled access to information and social interaction, it also exposes our young ones to a multitude of threats that can have lasting repercussions on their physical, mental, and emotional health. Cyberbullying, for instance, has become a pervasive issue, with harmful messages and malicious behaviour leaving deep scars on impressionable minds. Likewise, the anonymity of the internet provides fertile ground for predators seeking to exploit and manipulate unsuspecting children, posing a grave danger to their safety and well-being.

    The unrestricted flow of content on the internet means that children are exposed to a wide array of material, not all of which is suitable for their eyes and ears. Explicit imagery, hate speech, and violent content can seep into their digital spheres, leaving them vulnerable to harmful influences and desensitization to violence and inappropriate behaviour. Left unchecked, these online hazards can have profound effects on children’s development and shape their attitudes and behaviours in ways that may not be immediately evident.

    Read Also: Nigeria’s GDP grew by 2.98% in one year, says NBS

    In the face of these challenges, harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) emerges as a promising solution to protect our children and foster a safer online environment. AI technology offers a multifaceted approach to addressing the complexities of child online safety, leveraging advanced algorithms and machine learning capabilities to mitigate risks and empower parents and caregivers.

    One of the most impactful applications of AI in child online safety lies in content filtering and moderation systems. Traditional methods of filtering content often fall short in accurately identifying and blocking harmful material, relying on manual review processes that are slow and prone to errors. AI-powered filtering systems, however, excel in analysing vast datasets with unparalleled speed and precision, enabling more effective identification and removal of inappropriate content before it reaches young users.

    AI-driven parental control tools provide parents with the means to manage and monitor their children’s online activities more effectively. Features such as website blocking, time limits, and activity monitoring empower parents to set boundaries and enforce responsible behaviour, fostering a safer and healthier digital environment for their children. Also, AI algorithms can analyse usage patterns and detect potentially risky behaviours, such as excessive screen time or interactions with unknown users, alerting parents to intervene and address concerns promptly.

    In the realm of cyberbullying prevention, AI technologies play a crucial role in identifying and addressing instances of harassment and abuse. By employing natural language processing (NLP) algorithms, AI can analyse text-based communications to detect signs of bullying behaviour in real-time, enabling platforms and moderators to take swift action to protect victims and address perpetrators. AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants offer children personalized guidance and support on staying safe online, engaging them in conversations about internet safety and empowering them to make informed decisions.

    As we harness the potential of AI to protect our children online, it is paramount to address ethical considerations and privacy concerns associated with its implementation. Safeguarding children’s privacy rights and ensuring responsible use of personal data are essential principles that must guide the development and deployment of AI technologies in child online safety. Transparency, accountability, and adherence to strict guidelines and regulations are imperative to building trust and confidence in AI-driven solutions.

    AI technology holds immense promise in safeguarding our children’s digital well-being and creating a safer online environment for them to explore, learn, and connect. By leveraging AI-powered content filtering, parental controls, cyberbullying detection, and educational resources, we can empower parents, educators, and policymakers to protect our youngest digital citizens effectively. However, it is essential to approach AI implementation with care and foresight, ensuring that our efforts to safeguard children online are not only effective but also ethical and respectful of their rights and privacy. Together, let us navigate the digital frontier with vigilance and compassion, ensuring that our children’s online experiences are enriching, empowering, and above all, safe.

    •Wale Bakare, <wale@webfalainitiative.org>