The Nation Newspaper

Category: Letters

  • Rain as a test for building stability

    Rain as a test for building stability

    • By Bldr. Kunle Awobodu

    Sir: Lagos recorded its first building collapse in year 2024 as members of Building Collapse Prevention Guild (BCPG) were embarking on a Walk Against Building Collapse in Lagos. Worrisome coincidence! 

    The four – storey building (having a ground floor and three  suspended floors) under renovation located at No 1, Isale Gangan Street, Lagos Island  fortuitously collapsed while members of Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria  were holding  REDAN 2024 Annual General Meeting at Ikeja in Lagos.

    It could be very disturbing when a well-planned sensitisation walk scheduled for 8 am on Thursday, February 22, was welcomed by torrential rain in the dry season. Act of God!

    “Can this walk hold again with this rain?” A message (SMS) was received from the Lagos State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Abiodun Olumide, who was to join the BCPG members for the Walk Against Building Collapse.

    Surprisingly, the undaunted, resolute BCPG members from different BCPG Cells in Lagos State defied the rain and assembled at the take-off point, Ikeja Local Government Headquarters. 

    As the intensity of the rain reduced considerably, the BCPG gathering, mostly constituted by professionals in the built environment and building artisans embarked on the long walk that would terminate at the Lagos State Government Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja.  The messages on the banners were to sensitise the public on the need to adhere to standard building construction in order to prevent building collapse.

    The walk was also aimed at drawing the attention of the government to the astronomical rise in the prices of building materials that could tempt developers to compromise on standards.

    Suddenly, the sad news of building collapse during the sensitisation walk against building collapse doused the enthusiasm of BCPG members from BCPG Lagos Island Cell. That area has recorded the highest rate of building collapse in Lagos State, especially during rainy season.

    Is there any scientifically proved correlation between rain and building collapse?  A developer that was operating on the Lagos Island once confessed that rain usually deprived him of sound sleep. Should rain be held responsible for the incessant collapse of buildings in a coastal region like Lagos?

    Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) buildings are the most affected by rain in Lagos. Why?

    Contrary to the belief that rain is an agent of destruction, rain assists in the determination of building stability. A building that can withstand heavy rains will surely stand the test of time. Rain, therefore, helps subject the quality of materials and workmanship used in a building to unbiased verification.

    Lessons learnt from the building that collapsed in the rain:

     (1.)  The Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, especially the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) still has a lot to do in identifying weak buildings and preventing construction of substandard buildings.

    Read Also: Tinubu commends outgoing Immigration CG

    (2.) Building Collapse Prevention Guild, as a pressure group, should intensify its advocacy against the menace of building collapse, and address, professionally, causes of building collapse.

    (3.) As reiterated at the REDAN 2024 AGM, the need to bring developers together in an association that promotes standard building construction will definitely add value to investment in the Nigerian housing sector.

    The latest collapsed building at Isale Gangan, Lagos Island occupies the 595th position in the updated BCPG Record of collapsed buildings in Nigeria. The number of recorded buildings that collapsed in Lagos State since 1974 is now 341, which is 57.3 per cent of the national figure.

    Building collapse, mostly, is as a result of human error that could have been prevented. The latest collapsed building at Isale Gangan is a harbinger of metamorphosed inadequacies that plague implementation of building regulations in Lagos State.

    •Bldr. Kunle Awobodu,

    Lagos.

  • Anticipating the dividends of Tinubu’s vision

    Anticipating the dividends of Tinubu’s vision

    SIR: There is a strong case for optimism regarding Nigeria’s socio-economic and political trajectory under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Often recognised for his astute political acumen and visionary governance during his tenure as Governor of Lagos State, President Tinubu’s ascendancy to the presidency brings with it high expectations and the promise of transformative progress for Nigerians.

    As the country contends with a gamut of challenges, including economic diversification, infrastructural development and security concerns, President Tinubu’s strategic approach to governance has been marked by a commitment to welfare-centric policies and sustainable development.

    His economic blueprint is designed to catalyse growth and bolster Nigeria’s position as Africa’s largest economy. Initiatives aimed at supporting indigenous businesses, promoting foreign direct investment, and creating a more conducive environment for entrepreneurship are set to revitalise the economic landscape.

    The administration’s meticulous focus on economic diversification, particularly towards agriculture and technology, is expected to mitigate the country’s over-reliance on oil revenues and pave the way for a more robust, stable economy.

    Fiscal prudence stands as a cornerstone of President Tinubu’s economic policies. By advocating for enhanced transparency in government spending and the implementation of anti-corruption frameworks, the administration seeks to ensure that Nigeria’s resources are judiciously allocated for the nation’s development.

    This dedication to fiscal responsibility is projected to attract greater investment and foster an environment where public trust in government can flourish.

    In recognition of the crucial role infrastructure plays in national development, the current administration has pledged comprehensive infrastructural renewal. Building on President Tinubu’s legacy in Lagos, considerable investment in transportation, energy, and digital infrastructure is anticipated to spur economic activities and improve the quality of life for Nigerians.

    This, in conjunction with urban regeneration initiatives, is seen as pivotal to addressing the pressing needs of Nigeria’s rapidly growing urban population.

    Recognising that human capital is Nigeria’s most valuable asset, the administration is focused on reforming the healthcare and education sectors.

    Efforts to revitalize the healthcare system include improving access to quality care, increasing funding for health infrastructure, and enhancing the capacity of healthcare personnel.

    Read Also: Tinubu pays condolence visit to Akeredolu’s family in Owo

    In a similar vein, educational reforms aim to improve accessibility and quality at all levels, ensuring that the youth are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s future.

    National security and social harmony are imperative to Nigeria’s progress. President Tinubu’s administration is taking a proactive stance on security challenges, emphasizing intelligence-led initiatives, community policing, and the modernization of the armed forces.

    Simultaneously, policies aimed at fostering national unity and inclusive governance are being championed as means to engender stability and peace across the diverse tapestry of Nigerian society.

    The leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu holds significant promise for the advancement of Nigeria. As the administrative machinery enacts policies aligned with the President’s vision, the dividends of these initiatives are expected to materialise imminently.

    It is within this context that the Nigerian people and international observers alike eye the future with anticipation, ready to witness the nation’s climb to new heights of prosperity and global prominence.

    • Afolabi Olajuwon, Abuja.
  • Economic turmoil: From past to the present

    Economic turmoil: From past to the present

    SIR: Nigeria’s current economic woes are not isolated incidents but rather the peak of years of systemic challenges and policy missteps. From the decline of industries in the 1990s to the era of military rule marked by corruption and mismanagement, the nation has weathered numerous storms on its path to progress.

    In the vibrant tapestry of Nigeria’s economic history, the 1970s stood as a golden era, marked by robust growth, industrialization, and promise. However, the echoes of prosperity have gradually faded into the stark reality of economic downturns, leaving the populace grappling with unprecedented challenges.

    The 1970s witnessed Nigeria’s emergence as an economic powerhouse, fuelled by oil revenue and ambitious development projects. With a thriving manufacturing sector, a stable currency that cannot be competed with and strategic investments in infrastructure, the nation seemed poised for enduring prosperity.

    However, the dawn of the new millennium brought with it a stark reality check, as the nation grappled with a series of economic setbacks that threatened to undo decades of progress. Mismanagement, corruption, and global market fluctuations emerged as formidable adversaries, eroding confidence in Nigeria’s economic prowess and exposing deep-seated vulnerabilities.

    The decision to remove fuel subsidies, while well-intentioned, proved to be a double-edged sword, unleashing a torrent of consequences that reverberated throughout society. The subsequent free fall of the Naira sent shockwaves through the economy, triggering a cascade of hardships that tested the resilience of the populace.

    To understand the gravity of Nigeria’s economic predicament, one must delve into its root causes, which are as deep-seated as they are complex. Corruption, a scourge that has plagued the nation for decades, continues to gnaw away at its foundations, siphoning off resources meant for public good and fostering an environment of impunity.

    Inefficiency and a lack of diversification further compound the problem, leaving Nigeria’s economy dangerously reliant on oil revenue—a precarious position exacerbated by volatile global markets and shifting geopolitical dynamics.

    Despite ample opportunities for growth and development in sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing, inadequate investment and strategic planning have stymied progress and perpetuated cycles of poverty.

    Read Also: Nigeria’s economic transformation requires govt, citizens’ collaboration – First Lady

    The failure to address these systemic issues has left Nigeria vulnerable to external shocks and internal instability, undermining efforts to achieve sustainable development and improve the lives of its citizens. Without decisive action and a concerted effort to address the root causes of its economic woes, Nigeria risks being trapped in a cycle of decline, with far-reaching consequences for generations to come.

    As the leader of our great nation, the burden of Nigeria’s economic hardship weighs heavily on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s shoulders. In these trying times, we implore him to remain steadfast in his commitment to steer the country towards prosperity.

    However, solving Nigeria’s economic woes is not the sole responsibility of the government; it requires collective effort and sacrifice from all stakeholders. Citizens must hold their leaders accountable, demand transparency, and actively participate in nation-building initiatives. Only through unity and collaboration can we overcome the challenges that lie ahead.

    As Nigeria stands at a crossroads, the imperative for decisive action has never been clearer. Let us remain prayerful and hopeful that Nigeria will emerge stronger from this economic downturn. With resilience, determination, and a shared vision for a brighter future, we can overcome adversity and build a nation where prosperity is accessible to all.

    • Haroon Aremu Abiodun, NYSC, Abuja.
  • ‘Ways and means’ of fraud

    ‘Ways and means’ of fraud

    SIR: In the profound words of Chief Obafemi Jeremiah Oyeniyi Awolowo, “Today, Africa is a continent of competing beggar-nations.  We vie with one another for favours from our former colonial masters; and we deliberately fall over one another to invite neo- colonialists to come over to our different territories to preside over our economic fortunes…Unless a beggar resolutely shakes off and irrevocably turns his back on his begging habit, he will forever remain a beggar”.

    Surely, our constitution and monetary policies have become an expensive experiment; half a century after, it has not been able to preserve the liberties of the people, secure the rights of property, and our country has not improved. In our domestic concerns, there is everything to discourage us, and if we are true to ourselves, there are so many impediments on our march to national prosperity.

    No doubt, the current crisis of deregulation in Nigeria is generated by the pervasive impact of yesterday’s recklessness and profligacy. For example, the sums of $43.4m, 27,700 British pounds and N23.2 million naira ($74,000) were found by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at a private residence in Lagos. Sadly, like many others, it may have been swept under the carpet as they say in the local parlance.

    Additionally, in response to allegations by the current governor of Edo State Godwin Obaseki that money was being printed indiscriminately under the former president, Muhammadu Buhari, the former Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed had dismissed the claim by Obaseki as false. Zainab Ahmed said no money was printed for sharing.

    Read Also: How to curtail cyber fraud, by experts

    I should note that Nigerians were treated to a comical show of ignominy when it came to light that some criminals inside Emefiele’s CBN forged the signature of ex-President Buhari to steal $ 6.3 million. More comical was when Boss Mustapha, former secretary to the government of the federation (SGF), said the recipient of the $6,230,000 is not a staff of the SGF office! What a country, what a system! Who does that? Where would you forge the signature of Vladimir Putin in Russia and still be walking on Mother Earth?

    Recall that Godwin Emefiele and Zainab Ahmed had jointly signed a statement advising the then president, Buhari to restructure the Ways and Means of N23.71 trillion. This was a different figure presented to the National Assembly on the same date.  Buhari actually presented a figure of N22.7 trillion to the National Assembly in December 2022 – conflicting figures within the same system!

    This is part of the Ways and Means of fraud in the banking sector under a government that prides itself on “anti-corruption”.

    • Richard Odusanya odusanyagold@gmail.com
  • Tackling insecurity with technology

    Tackling insecurity with technology

    • By Shuaib S. Agaka

    Sir: Nigeria is a country with a variety of cultures and a promising economy, but its contemporary security problem is disheartening. These challenges, such as terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping, create a complicated and diverse threat situation. Right now, Nigeria is at a critical point, requiring smart and creative solutions to address these issues.

    The security issues did not arise recently; instead, they became significantly concerning a decade ago. As the day goes by, terrorists grow in innovation on ways of boosting their enterprises, while the country is purging and sacrificing a lot of resources, both financially and militarily, to curb the security problems.

    Amid these complex security issues, technology should be viewed as an enhancer of traditional security methods. In today’s world, where the issues of insecurity have become more advanced and widespread around the country, adopting the latest technological solutions is a key strategy.

    One of the cornerstones of this technological evolution is the deployment of AI-powered surveillance systems. This system, equipped with sophisticated cameras and sensors, can be very advantageous for monitoring vast areas in real-time. AI-powered surveillance, which utilises sophisticated algorithms to analyse large volumes of data from various sources like CCTV cameras, drones, and sensors, allows security agencies to monitor vulnerable areas, critical infrastructure, and border regions with unparalleled precision.

     Also, using systems of machine learning models can help identify patterns, anomalies, and potential threats, greatly improving overall situational awareness and making security forces stronger and better able to handle various types of threats.

    More so, rural regions, often targeted by criminal organisations, can gain significant advantages from AI-powered surveillance. Drones equipped with AI algorithms can efficiently patrol these remote areas, offering a cost-effective means of monitoring. The ability to identify and track movements, such as those of smugglers or trespassers, strengthens border security and helps prevent cross-border criminal activities.

    Read Also: Be patient with us, Speaker Abbas appeals to Nigerians

     Biometric identification technologies, encompassing fingerprint recognition, facial recognition, iris scans, and voice recognition, have been deployed to some degree. However, their full potential remains underutilised. This suggests that there is a requirement to combine and improve how biometric identification is used in the current security system.

    Because of advancements in technology, particularly in the field of artificial intelligence, real-time biometric analysis can be integrated into surveillance systems. This would enable security forces to identify and track known threats dynamically, enhancing their overall situational awareness and response capabilities. The integration of AI-driven biometric surveillance can be a force in the quest to stay ahead of evolving security threats.

    The use of community-driven reporting applications can also be a game-changer. These apps make citizens actively participate in improving security, creating a network where the public and law enforcement can directly share information, significantly boosting overall security measures.

    •Shuaib S. Agaka, (NYSC),

    Kano.

  • Legal quandary of parallel party primaries

    Legal quandary of parallel party primaries

    • By Ozioma V. Nwadike

    Sir: Primary elections stand as a crucial pillar of the political process, allowing voters to express their preferences for their party’s candidates in upcoming general elections. These primaries can vary from open, including the general public, to closed, restricted to party members. In Nigeria, closed primaries dominate the landscape. However, internal divisions within political parties frequently lead to fragmentation, resulting in the conduct of parallel primary elections by different party factions. Consequently, multiple candidates emerge, each staunchly asserting their right to the party’s nomination.

    Most recently, this scenario unfolded in Edo State concerning the impending governorship election. Within the All Progressives Congress (APC), three contenders—Monday Okphebholo, Dennis Idahosa, and Anamero Dekeri—emerged from parallel party primaries. The national leadership of the party later deemed the exercise that propelled Dennis Idahosa inconclusive and conducted another election, ultimately declaring Monday Okphebholo as the victor.

    Similarly, within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), the deputy governor, Phillip Shaibu, and prominent corporate lawyer, Asue Ighodalo, both stake their claims to the party’s candidacy. In the Labour Party, Olumide Akpata surfaced from the Julius Abure-led faction, while Lamidi Apapa asserts the nomination of Anderson Uwadiae Asemota to INEC.

    In what appears to be settled law, the Nigerian Supreme Court has long held that it is only the primary election conducted by a party’s National Working Committee, or a body appointed by it, that is the valid and authentic primary. Where a primary election is found to have been conducted by the state chapter of a political party or any other body, same will be deemed illegal, invalid, null, void and therefore an exercise conducted without any semblance of legal justification See SHIDDI v. JIMKUTA & ORS (2023) LPELR – 60289 (SC), OGAH v. EMENIKE & ORS (2023) LPELR-60008 (SC). Furthermore, the Supreme Court recently held that merely monitoring the primary election of a political party by INEC does not confer legitimacy on such primary election which was not approved by the National Working Committee of the party. See SANI v. APC & ORS (2023) LPELR-60002 (SC). Circling back to Edo State, it is safe to say that the authentic party primary is the one conducted by the national working committee, or the electoral committee appointed by it, of the respective parties.

    In the PDP, things are a lot simple. From indications, Asue Ighodalo emerged from the primary election conducted by the PDP’s National Working Committee. In the Labour Party, the leadership tussles between Lamidi Apapa and the Obidient-backed Julius Abure is unlikely to abate soon. Though as at today, the Abure led National Working Committee which produced Olumide Akpata is recognized by INEC.

    As regards the APC, the matter is not so straightforward. The NWC appointed Hope Uzodinma-led electoral committee had initially declared Dennis Idahosa as the winner of the party’s primaries. The national leadership later announced the election to be inconclusive.

    Read Also: House invites CBN Gov over REMITA leakages

    Previously political parties were masters of their own destinies; however Section 84 (14) of the Electoral Act 2022 has now afforded the court a narrow jurisdiction to pry into the internal affairs of a party where it has acted arbitrarily in the nomination of candidate for an election. While the actual choice of candidate is within the domestic affairs of the party, which is not justiciable, the party must adhere strictly to the provisions of the Electoral Act, and its own constitution and guidelines in carrying out the exercise. In this instance, it remains to be seen if the party’s national leadership can declare as inconclusive, a primary election by a duly appointed electoral committee after results have already been announced. Whether the matter was not already a fait accompli?

    Subject to the provisions of the APC constitution, can an election from which results have already been announced be declared inconclusive? Has the APC not shot itself in the foot by declaring the election inconclusive rather than an outright cancellation?

    Note also that the Supreme Court have held that an aspirant must first exhaust the internal dispute resolution mechanisms of his party before he can exercise a right of action over dispute arising from party primary elections. It remains to be seen how to marry that with the mandatory 14 day limitation period to file pre-election matters.

    •Ozioma V. Nwadike Esq.

    oziomanwadike23@gmail.com.

  • Artificial Intelligence: Blessing or a curse?

    Artificial Intelligence: Blessing or a curse?

    By Daniel Ighakpe

    Sir: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is currently one of the hottest buzzwords in the technology arena today, and with good reason. In the last few years, we have seen several innovations and advancements which used to be thought of as mere science fiction – a mere figment of one’s imagination, now slowly transform into reality. 

    For example, if you have watched movies such as ‘Star Trek: The Next Generation’ or ‘Terminator,’ you would have seen examples of humanoid robots often associated with Artificial Intelligence (AI). These robots used to exist only in the imaginations of the creators of such movies, but today AI robots are slowly transforming into a reality.

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a method of making either a computer, a computer-controlled robot, or a software, to think intelligently like the human mind. Artificial Intelligence is accomplished by studying the patterns of the human brain and by analysing what is known as the cognitive process – that is, the mental operation the brain performs to process information – including obtaining information, processing the information and then storing it in the memory to be accessed again. These AI studies result in the development of intelligent software and systems.

     Artificial Intelligence (AI) has a wide range of applications across several industries and domains.

    In the health care industry, AI-powered robotics could support surgeries that are located near highly delicate organs or tissues of the body, and therefore help to reduce blood loss or the risk of infection. It could also help in better diagnosis, better medical imaging analysis, better drug discovery and better medical treatment. In the finance industry, AI could help in fraud detection due to its capability to analyse large amounts of data. It could help to quickly detect anomalies or patterns that signal fraudulent behaviour, thereby helping to reduce the frequency of fraud in the financial services industry. In the technology industry, AI could help in cybersecurity – detecting and preventing cyber threats and enhancing response mechanisms.

    These are just a few examples of how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is applied in various fields and some of the advantages or benefits include greater accuracy for certain repeatable tasks such as assembling vehicles or computers; decreased operational cost due to greater efficiency of machines; improved decision-making in certain situations; and so on.

    Read Also: Be patient with us, Speaker Abbas appeals to Nigerians

    However, as with any other concept or innovation, Artificial Intelligence (AI) also has its disadvantages and potential dangers. They include job loss due to increased automation, leading to greater unemployment; taking over our creative tools because of the desire for more efficiency instead of encouraging human creativity, especially in the artistic field; possible cybersecurity concerns; lack of transparency over how decisions are arrived at, resulting in less than optimal solutions; a potential to create misinformation as well as inadvertently violating laws and regulations.

    There is also the potential danger of using AI technology to create weapons that we cannot even understand and that could also fall into the wrong hands, which could be catastrophically dangerous to humans.

    So, although Artificial Intelligence (AI) has a range of exciting applications with the potential to transform our daily lives and how we work, it also poses many challenges. It is a complicated picture that often summons competing images: a utopia for some, a dystopia for others. The reality is likely to be much more complex. 

    So, will Artificial Intelligence (AI) eventually be a blessing or a curse? Only time will tell to what extent it will be used – either for good or for bad. With great power comes great responsibility, after all!

    • Daniel Ighakpe

    Amuwo-Odofin, Lagos.

  • Re-introduce subsidy through agriculture

    Re-introduce subsidy through agriculture

    SIR: Most Nigerians have no qualms with subsidy removal; it is the approach that was used that we have reservation for. There is no doubt that the removal of fuel subsidy had ripple effect on the woof and warp of Nigeria’s economic fabric. The private sector is struggling to keep up with the reality of the moment and civil servants in public sector are financially incapacitated. Families are finding it difficult to have two meals a day, with resultant negative effects on the health of the citizens and ability to contribute to the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP).

    Nigeria at this point needs to invest massively in agriculture, to make surplus food available to the citizens at an affordable rate. United States, Russia and China controls the world grains reserve because of the subsidies available for agriculture and other working policies.

    NIRSAL is a case study of working policy in Nigeria; it is a fantastic government programme that was supposed to transform Nigeria’s agriculture by making funds available to real farmers who produce what Nigerians consume daily, but it could not achieve its objective due to the Nigerian factor.

    Yes, subsidy is gone in the petroleum industry, but it needs to be re-introduced into agriculture to make funds available for small scale farmers who produce 70% of the food items consumed in Nigeria. Also, there is the need for more regulatory policies in the agrochemical industry to control sub-standard products in the market and possibly provide tax waivers to reduce the market price of these agrochemicals.

    Read Also: Fuel subsidy was costing FG N400bn monthly – Edun

    Fertilizer is a key component of agricultural production which must be made available to farmers at subsidized rate. The e-wallet template used by Dr. Akinwumi Adesina of African Development Bank as agriculture minister is a tested and verified framework for reaching out to small scale farmers.

    There is need to improve on the country’s security architecture and a synergy should be put in place between the proposed agro-rangers and the various security apparatus (army, air force, police etc.). Farmers should be able to go about their business with maximum safety and also a viable solution must be worked out to put a stop to farmers/herders conflict.

    The 12 River Basin Development  Authorities can provide the fulcrum for achieving food security, with thousands of hectares of  lands, dams, canals and other irrigation structures in their control for achieving an all year round farming.

    Nigeria is presently at a turbulent time; making food available to the masses at an affordable rate through subsidized agriculture is necessary to extinguish the embers of looming disquiet in Nigeria.

    • Ibrahim Baba-Ibrahim, Ilorin, Kwara State.
  • Illuminating the future with solar solution

    Illuminating the future with solar solution

    SIR: In the heart of Nigeria’s development dilemma lies an ironic paradox: a nation rich in potential yet plagued by persistent power outages. The narrative of Nigeria’s power sector is one of unfulfilled promises and missed opportunities, with the term ‘epileptic power supply’ becoming a staple in the lexicon of the Nigerian populace. However, amidst the gloom, solar energy emerges as a guiding light of hope, offering a sustainable solution to our electricity crisis. This conundrum, where abundant natural resources and human capital coexist with such glaring infrastructural deficits, underscores the urgent need for innovative approaches to energy.

    Africa’s largest economy continues to grapple with an inadequate power supply, severely impeding economic growth and affecting the quality of life of its citizens. With an installed capacity that falls significantly short of demand, the country’s reliance on an aging infrastructure and fossil fuels has resulted in a power sector that is both unreliable and environmentally unsustainable. Solar energy presents a viable and sustainable alternative to traditional power sources for several compelling reasons. Firstly, Nigeria is blessed with abundant sunlight year-round, offering an inexhaustible energy supply yet to be fully harnessed. Secondly, solar power systems can be deployed rapidly and scaled modularly to meet urban and rural energy needs. Lastly, clean and green solar energy aligns with global sustainability goals, positioning Nigeria as a responsible actor in the fight against climate change.

    The decentralized nature of solar power provides a unique advantage in addressing Nigeria’s power reliability and accessibility issues. We can bypass the need for extensive grid infrastructure by adopting solar energy, bringing reliable electricity to remote and underserved regions. Solar mini-grids and off-grid solutions can power homes, schools, and businesses, reducing dependency on the national grid and mitigating the impact of power outages. Solar energy investment promises to stabilize our power supply and stimulate economic growth. The solar industry can create jobs, from installation to maintenance, fostering a new wave of technical and entrepreneurial skills among Nigerians. Environmentally, the shift to solar reduces our carbon footprint, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier population.

    Read Also: On Ekiti solar-powered boreholes initiative

    To realize the potential of solar energy in Nigeria, concerted government and private sector efforts are essential. The government should implement policies encouraging investment in solar technology, such as tax incentives for solar companies and subsidies for solar products.

    Additionally, establishing clear regulatory frameworks and standards will attract domestic and foreign investment. Collaboration between the public and private sectors can accelerate the adoption of solar energy. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) can facilitate the financing and implementation of large-scale solar projects. Moreover, the government can partner with technology providers and financial institutions to create affordable solar solutions for urban and rural households.

    A critical component of Nigeria’s transition to solar energy is raising public awareness and education on the benefits and practicalities of solar power. Educational campaigns can demystify solar technology, showcasing its affordability and ease of installation. Engaging communities and stakeholders in dialogue about solar energy’s role in Nigeria’s energy mix is crucial for fostering acceptance and encouraging adoption. The journey to a stable and sustainable power supply in Nigeria is fraught with challenges, but the potential of solar energy offers a glimmer of hope. We can solve the persistent power outages that have long hindered our nation’s progress by harnessing the sun’s power. The transition to solar energy is not merely an option; it is necessary for Nigeria’s economic development, environmental sustainability, and the well-being of its citizens. As we contemplate our energy future, let us choose a path illuminated by the sun. The time for solar energy in Nigeria is now.

    • Clement Asegunloluwa Idowu Lagos.
  • President Tinubu will not resign

    President Tinubu will not resign

    SIR: It has come to the notice of many patriotic Nigerians – I inclusive- the fervent but misguided efforts aimed at attacking the office and person of the president, His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. While there is indeed hardship in the country, it should be noted is a global problem not just a Nigerian issue and president Tinubu should rather be praised and commended for steadying the ship of state in this challenging times rather than the vain calls for him to resign. There is an economic slowdown contagion across the globe which calls for concerted efforts by all to salvage the situation for the benefit of Nigerians and Nigeria. Gratefully, the renewed hope agenda of Mr President is taking roots, even if slowly. But the evil machinations masked under rights of expression must be unmasked and called out for what they truly are. While the right of expression including protests is enshrined in Nigeria’s constitution, the wave of protests without a clear raison d’etre for such venture clearly betrays the sinister intentions of unpatriotic elements who are bent on destabilising the nation for their personal gains. We must, therefore, be educated to the fact that if we allow fifth columnists to hide under the right to protest and they succeed to destabilise the country, the current situation will rather get worse.

    Read Also: Tinubu directs creation of youth unemployment benefits

    This is the time for elder statesmen and women across Nigeria to rise in unison and offer credible and patriotic solutions and advice on how to move the country forward as well as condemn the nefarious calls for the President to resign. I appeal to elder statesmen like my friend and brother Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, my colleague and friend Chief Edwin Clark, my brothers Emmanuel Iwuanyawu, Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi to put Nigeria first in these critical times and shun the temptation to elevate personal disagreements at par with National interest. It is a fact that President Tinubu was elected by the Nigerian people; however, he inherited a badly managed economy and some of the challenges Nigeria is facing today have been there for decades. The best that can be done therefore, at this material time, is to support the president to get Nigeria out of the woods and not support the calls on him to resign. The president has the mandate of the Nigerian people and any call on him to resign will be resisted by the people. This is because most of the hues and cries are grossly exaggerated and sponsored by people who go by the theory of if I don’t get it I destroy it whereas most of them are the foundation of some of these challenges. As a matter of fact, many of these people cannot explain the source of their emergency wealth.

    However, it should be noted that elections have come and gone and it is time to govern. This therefore is not the time to politicise governance as is being promoted by unpatriotic elements masquerading as rights advocates. I appeal to Nigerians to be more aware of these and other issues especially the need to afford the president more time to fix some of the endemic challenges facing Nigeria. Let us move forward and put Nigeria first and bury the hatchet of hatred, failure and animosity towards one another and come together to assist the current administration with solutions and recommendations to achieve all that it has outlined in the Renewed Hope agenda because condemnation is not the solution.

    • High Chief Abiola Ogundokun, Lagos.