The Nation Newspaper

Category: Letters

  • Suicide and mental health epidemic

    Suicide and mental health epidemic

    SIR: Saratu Redemption Maikeffi, a 100-level student of Microbiology in the Nasarawa State University Keffi took her life towards the end of last year. According to reports, the self-described actress, beauty queen and CEO of Rhina Bakery ingested a poisonous substance as a result of mounting emotional pain. Her death continues what has become a silent but devastating trend among young Nigerians — taking their life in the hope, or expectation, that things will get better elsewhere.

    Early this year, Amarachi Igwe, a female bank staff, took her life within the premises of the bank in Lagos. Her death, which sent shockwaves around the country, was preceded by a suicide note in which she lamented the difficulties of living in Nigeria.

    The heart-wrenching note written clearly in a notepad was clear and startling in its despair and hopelessness.

    For many years now, there has been a mental health epidemic of depression in Nigeria. This state of almost mass depression has been suspected for a while now but has only started to come to the fore recently thanks to increased sensitization, improved awareness and less stigmatization.

    However, despite these, Nigeria remains a country where rampaging mental illness is rampant, and many are silently hanging on to dear life by the skin of their teeth.

    Nigeria’s staggering struggles to build a country where everyone can lead a quality live is well documented. Insecurity, outrageous living costs, bad governance complete with calamitous government policies are just a few of the issues. Perhaps, the greatest indictment of just how difficult life is in Nigeria is the fact that Nigeria’s youngest, those who carry the country’s hopes, are desperate to live in the country.

    Read Also: Accidental misfiring killed soldier not suicide, says Army

    They also count among those taking their lives as things stand. Let down by a country where the fewest are the richest, they see no way out.

    It takes another level of desperation to take one’s life. Man’s greatest instinct is self-preservation. Thus, the moment one begins to entertain recurring thoughts of taking one’s life and goes to the extent of acting on it, the darkness within is at an extraordinary level.

    To keep Nigerians from getting consumed by what is a mental health epidemic, the government must do more both to improve the lives of Nigerians, but also to improve access to mental health services. Invariably, to keep Nigerians from the slippery slope of suicide, conscious efforts must be made to improve the quality of their lives as well as improve access to mental healthcare.

    Until these are deliberately and constantly improved, Nigeria can expect to be rocked occasionally by the suicide of otherwise healthy citizens.

     Alarm bells should toll at the fact that otherwise optimistic people are now very much on the precipice.

    Life may be hard, but nothing is harder than the decision to take one’s life, and the distressing actualization of that decision.

    • Ike Willie-Nwobu, ikewilly9@gmail.com
  • On the aggravated insecurity

    On the aggravated insecurity

    SIR: We recall with regret the recent upsurge of insecurity exemplified by the late December 2023 killings in Plateau State, incessant killings in Katsina State, 45 passengers kidnapped as gunmen attacked transporters along Otukpo-Enugu Road and the ongoing kidnap and murder of innocent Nigerians in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory.

    Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) recalls that in the last 10 years, security has enjoyed the highest allocation in federal budgets to cater for the armada of security agencies maintained at the taxpayers expense. Budgetary allocations have been proposed and spent on personnel, arms and ammunition, aircraft and vessels, vehicles, equipment including intelligence gadgets. We are worried at the  inability of the security agencies to deploy intelligence to prevent and nip in the bud the insensitive acts of criminal elements who have no regard for human lives. We are further worried that when these crimes have been committed, the security agencies have been unable to investigate, arrest and bring the perpetrators to justice.

    Read Also: Insecurity: Be vigilant, active ahead of eventualities, says Wamakko

    Under Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, GSM SIM card numbers were linked to national identity numbers of Nigerians and the authorities indicated that it would provide a foolproof link and clue to any crimes committed using GSM phones. This raises the critical question of why the perpetrators of these high level crimes where GSM phones have been used to make contact are not brought to justice.

    There have been several mop-up of light arms in the possession of law-abiding citizens and only very few Nigerians have been licensed to carry weapons. The critical question is; why take away the arms needed for self-defence if the state is not   ready to defend citizens and residents of Nigeria?

    The insecurity is heightened at a time Nigeria has launched a global campaign for foreign investors to come and invest in the country. News of crowdfunding for the purpose of meeting the ransom demands of kidnappers is clearly not the way to attract foreign investors.

    In the circumstances, the federal government should expeditiously take steps for the amendment of the 1999 Constitution and enactment of new laws for the establishment and activation of state police. Intelligence should be mainstreamed and prioritized in policing and security work. The activation and routine deployment of the SIM GSM database and inventory for investigations and tracking of criminals is long overdue.

    It is time to liberalise the processing of gun licenses for responsible law-abiding tax paying citizens for the purpose of self-defence. Nigerians need to be reassured through concrete security action on the ability of the state to protect lives and property.

    • Eze Onyekpere, Centre for Social Justice, Abuja.
  • Why Nigeria can’t ignore the brain drain syndrome

    Why Nigeria can’t ignore the brain drain syndrome

    • By Tosin Samuel Afeniforo

    Sir: President Tinubu’s recent statement urging us to disregard the Nigerian brain drain syndrome raises concerns about the government’s approach to one of the most pressing issues facing our nation. In his words “We will train more people”. I must admit that he missed a crucial point here about the “Japa” syndrome. Which nation trains its best talents and thereafter loses them to competitors? While the president’s intent may be to downplay the severity of the situation, it is essential that we address the root causes and seek comprehensive solutions to mitigate the impacts of this brain drain.

    The migration of highly intelligent and skilled individuals from Nigeria in search of prospects overseas is a critical problem that affects the country’s development and progress. This phenomenon has a substantial impact on the country’s ability to compete globally, and its effects cannot be ignored.

    The dearth of possibilities for professional advancement is one of the main causes of the brain drain. Some of the biggest obstacles faced by our experts include poor welfare, inadequate funding for research, limited access to advanced facilities, and insufficient support for innovation and entrepreneurship. To address this issue, the government must prioritize funding for research and development, creating an environment that encourages creativity and the retention of highly skilled workers.

    Read Also: Tinubu approves three resolutions to reduce pharmaceutical costs, bridge brain drain in health sector

    It is also essential for the government to play an active role in creating a conducive environment for the growth of the economy and the creation of job opportunities. Apart from providing infrastructural development and funding support to entrepreneurs, the government must also focus on policies that help retain local talent. This can be achieved through the promotion of entrepreneurship, support for regional sectors, maintaining a stable economic climate, and improving the security architecture of the country. Again, ignoring the brain drain will only exacerbate the problem of talent depletion therefore, it is crucial to implement proactive measures that will make Nigeria an attractive destination for the brightest minds to come and stay. By doing so, the country can benefit from the expertise and skills of its citizens, ultimately leading to a more prosperous and sustainable future.

    Establishing programs that facilitate collaboration between the diaspora and local initiatives can create a synergy that benefits both sides. Only through strategic action can we hope to reverse this trend and build a Nigeria that retains and benefits from its most valuable asset – its people.

    •Tosin Samuel Afeniforo,

    IUSS Pavia, Italy.

  • A refreshing tale from Kaduna

    A refreshing tale from Kaduna

    • By Kene Obiezu

    Sir: Amidst the insecurity turmoil Kaduna, Nasara Dabo, a 14-year-old student of Ideal International College, Kaduna recently gained attention for her exceptional performance at the International Mathematical Olympiad. She solved 34 math problems in just 172 seconds, averaging an impressive five seconds per question, earning her a gold medal in the junior category. Outshining 150 competitors worldwide, Nasara secured a total score of 145 and claimed the Olympiad champion title.

    Kaduna is easily one of Nigeria’s most volatile states. The state, which maintains proximity to Abuja has always been torn by ethno-religious strife. In the early 2000s, the state witnessed what turned out to be some of Nigeria’s fiercest political clashes. When terrorism took a virulent turn in the country in 2009, Kaduna began to witness a string of terrorist attacks. By the time banditry emerged as a vicious form of terrorism, the state quickly became one of the most affected. 

    During the presidency of Muhammadu Buhari, some attacks witnessed in the state shook Nigeria’s very foundations. While Kaduna State was impacted, Southern Kaduna was more affected than any other part. In the Southern Kaduna, entire communities have been lain to waste by rampaging terrorists.

    As terrorism has struck Southern Kaduna with venomous velocity, students have formed a large part of its victims. Multiple attacks have been recorded against schools. In the past few years, dozens of students were abducted in schools within the state and held for days until hefty ransoms were paid.

     It is amidst these realities that Nasara Dabo’s feat is doubly impressive. Her example offers young Nigerians who are doing all they can to acquire an education under notably difficult circumstances a lot of hope. 

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    Nigeria may have close to twenty million out-of-school children, but in Nasara Dabo’s ground breaking performance, the prodigious potentials that lie within young Nigerians can be glimpsed.

     That Dabo is still a child and a girl is doubly impressive and inspirational. Her feat shows what the girl child can do if provided the opportunity. In a country where girls face multiple challenges from birth, she represents what is possible for the girl child in Nigeria.

     Nigeria is a land of possibilities. There is no telling what is possible if the conditions in the country are made right. The government must be intentional then about making the conditions right. It is important. Investing in young Nigerians, especially in the girl child by way of education always produces great fruits eventually. Investing in education can drastically improve the lives of Nigerians and reduce the number of people who are desperate to leave the country for greener pastures.

     Dabo’s example also shows the urgent need to protect girl children from all manner of exploitation, especially sexual exploitation. Among the ranks of Nigeria’s beleaguered children are many more just as gifted as Dabo. Discovering them, polishing them, and ultimately giving them the platform to excel can make the difference between a country that is getting it right and one that continues to struggle.

    •Kene Obiezu,

    keneobiezu@gmail.com

  • Hilda Baci and Guinness-record mania

    Hilda Baci and Guinness-record mania

    • By Zayd Ibn Isah

    Sir: There is a saying about initiating something that inspires others to follow in one’s footsteps. This saying is true for Hilda Baci, the Akwa Ibom-born chef who held the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon for six months until it was broken by Alan Fisher, an Irishman.

    Hilda cooked for over 90 hours, surpassing the Indian, Lata Tondon’s four-year Guinness World Record of 87 hours and 45 minutes. Hilda became a subject of national and international discussion as news of her culinary feats spread far and wide.

    Perhaps, this is why others felt inspired to emulate her. The aftermath of her cookathon campaign has resulted in a diverse array of individuals attempting to grab headlines by breaking various Guinness World Records. Almost everybody wants to be a Guinness World Record holder. One famous example is that of Dami, a self-styled chef in Ekiti State, who began her own cookathon shortly after Hilda Baci finished hers and was waiting for official confirmation from Guinness World Records. Whatever happened to her cooking challenge may probably be a story for another time.

    More Nigerians have continued to attempt to break one form of Guinness World Records or the other. Even a Kiss-a-thon was attempted in Ekiti, but the initiators gave up after the Governor read the riot act to them. At times, we tend to go overboard in this country.

    The Guinness World Records fever has spread far and wide, even beyond the shores of Nigeria. Recently, a Ghanaian named Patrick Amenuvor attempted a stand-a-thon to break the Guinness World Record for the longest standing by an individual, but the young man quit after four hours. Why start what you can’t finish? Didn’t Patrick know that prolonged and frequent standing, without some relief by walking, causes blood to pool in the legs and feet? Maybe he knows or he was advised against it but insisted on attempting the record, as if the Guinness World Book of Records is the divine Book of Life.

    Read Also: Tinubu approves three resolutions to reduce pharmaceutical costs, bridge brain drain in health sector

    The Guinness World Records mania reached a crescendo when a Cameroonian lady, Danny Zara, reportedly sought to have sex non-stop for 200 hours in a sex-a-thon from July 17 to July 25. It turned out that no Cameroonian male volunteered and so the idea died a natural death. It would have been the last straw that would break the camel’s back. I doubt if Paul Biya would have allowed such to happen in Cameroon, even if there were willing men to participate.

    Surely, Hilda Baci couldn’t have seen this massive influence coming. She should be proud that she has spearheaded a revolution of Guinness World Records campaign in Africa. But in the pursuit of breaking Guinness World Records, it’s crucial for Nigerians to take precautionary measures and avoid heart-wrenching stories. Last year, amidst the GWR frenzy, Nigerian masseuse, Joyce Ijeoma fainted while attempting the record for the longest massage hours, surpassing 50 hours before collapsing. A viral video documented the moment during her live stream. It’s unwise to jeopardize one’s life for GWR; there are countless records that can be achieved without subjecting the body to extreme stress. Nigerians should learn to stay safe and pursue records responsibly.

    •Zayd Ibn Isah,

    lawcadet1@gmail.com

  • Reviving the soul of Nigeria

    Reviving the soul of Nigeria

    • By Akinola Ifeoluwa Dorcas

    Sir: Unbeknownst principles, poverty, and a dearth of moral values have become the chief contributors to the rampant moral decay plaguing Nigerian society. The nostalgic image of a once vibrant Nigeria in my early years has been overshadowed by the pervasive influence of these factors, deeply embedded in the fabric of what was once a thriving community.

    The concerning level of moral deterioration is not only disheartening but also disrupts the plans and programs aimed at establishing educational standards for the youth—the very inspiration and future leaders of the nation. This disturbing trend paints a grim picture, portraying Nigeria as a state on the brink of failure.

    As a child, I eagerly absorbed stories of a better Nigeria, anticipating a brighter future. However, as a teenager, my optimism was shattered, witnessing the devaluation and degradation of our national currency right before my eyes.

    The blame for this predicament is often placed on leadership, law enforcement, and the populace. The leadership’s corruption, exploitation, and selfishness, coupled with the high rates of unemployment and poverty, have contributed to the erosion of moral values. The political landscape is marred by corruption and bad governance, creating a negative image that permeates the entire society.

    Read Also: CBN uncovers FX violations, vows to crack down on culprits

    The moral decay in Nigeria reflects the failure of key social institutions, including the family, school, and church. To revive our dreams for a better Nigeria, concerted efforts must be made on various fronts.

    Firstly, the religious teachings in Nigeria should transcend mere doctrines and be spirit-filled, emphasizing redemption from poverty and inhumanity, aligning with God’s definition of humanity.

    Religious followers must cultivate a mind-set that abhors evil, actively embracing righteousness in all aspects of life. Purposeful efforts should encourage Nigerians to align their actions with the country’s moral values.

    Leadership must prioritize integrity, commitment, and accountability, setting an example for citizens. This shift in focus will inspire citizens to rediscover lost values and contribute to realizing the Nigeria of our dreams—a nation built on accountability, transparency, love, unity, and progress.

    •Akinola Ifeoluwa Dorcas,

    Akinolaifeoluwa730@gmail.com

  • Revisit decision on Togo, Cotonou degree certificates

    Revisit decision on Togo, Cotonou degree certificates

    By Adamade Petter Adamade

    SIR: The issuance of fake certificates, both within Nigeria and abroad, is not a new phenomenon. Many institutions, globally, are facing accusations of awarding certificates to undeserving candidates. Therefore, the case of Cotonou should not be singled out or become a focal point of public discussion.

    While many institutions accused of such scandals in Nigeria vehemently deny the claims to protect their prestige, instances of fake certificate awards are prevalent. The consequences of fake certificates awarded by Nigerian institutions are evident across various sectors, including the military, medical profession, education, agriculture, engineering, commerce, and politics.

    The detrimental impact is reflected in Nigeria’s current challenges, such as a compromised democratic atmosphere, a corrupt educational system, the presence of unqualified medical personnel, an unorganized defence system, and widespread insecurity. 

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    The proliferation of WAEC, NECO, and JAMB miracle centres in Nigeria’s corrupt educational system contributes to the emergence of fake police and military officers, incompetent leaders, and escalating security challenges.

    Banning Cotonou and Togo degree certificates might not be the optimal solution, considering that Nigerian institutions need to be held accountable. Fake certificate issues extend beyond international borders, with corruption being a pervasive challenge in Africa. Eliminating corruption is a formidable task, and scrutiny is warranted not only for the exposed journalist but also for individuals who acquire certificates through illegal means in Nigeria.

    It is imperative for authorities to investigate how the journalist obtained his certificates in just six weeks and to allow the implicated institutions to present their case. Benin Republic and Togo have three three-year first-degree systems, unlike Nigeria which has a maximum of 4-5 years.

    Globally, the minimum years of acquiring a degree certificate is three years. Also, In Cotonou and Togo, this standard isn’t compromised. Meanwhile, not everyone schooling or graduated from the suspended institutions bought certificates, and not every school in Togo or Benin Republic was involved in buying, selling or awarding fake certificates.

    Therefore, there is a need for the federal government to reverse its decision to suspend the degree programs in Togo and Cotonou, and or arrest the management of EGST University involved in such ungodly acts to face the wrath of the law. The allegation of buying, selling and awarding of fake certificates is not only peculiar to the Benin Republic and Togo but it has also been alleged here in Nigeria.

    In recent years, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Lagos State University, Imo State University, and the University of Jos were accused of selling and awarding fake certificates to undeserving candidates. The point here is, why did the federal government of Nigeria fail to sanction or suspend those institutions if it wanted to curb corruption in its educational system? Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach and a fair examination not just suspending innocent institutions maintaining the global standard in awarding degree certificates. 

    To this end, the Students Union Government of the Institute Superirieur de Formation Professionelle, are here to draw the attention of the federal government to reverse its decision to suspend Togo and Cotonou degree programs. We are calling on the government to conduct a thorough investigation into how the said journalist obtained his degree from the accused certificates.

    • Adamade Petter Adamade, National President, ISFOP University’s Alumni, Abuja.

  • Awaiting President Tinubu’s renewed hope

    Awaiting President Tinubu’s renewed hope

    By Ezinwanne Onwuka

    SIR:  I am smitten with nostalgia when I remember the ‘good old days’. The days when N5,000 could buy a big fowl that would feed a family of six. How much did you buy a fowl last Christmas?

     How could I have forgotten that Nigeria’s economy dealt with the majority of us last year so much so that we had no option but to be grateful for life and good health, and watch the clock tick away the minutes?

    The year 2023 was tough.

    It was a year of sustained financial misery for many Nigerians. It began with a frenzied naira scarcity that had us buying currency. Had it not been for the Supreme Court which came to the rescue, the barter era could have descended upon us.

    While Nigerians were still recuperating from the harsh effects of the naira crunch, the new president, Bola Tinubu scrapped the petrol subsidy that has kept the cost of petrol cheap in the country for decades. Nigerians are yet to recover from the impact of that single decision.

    Inflation is reaching for the skies and it is not likely to drop anytime soon, the cost of living has tripled, and Nigerians have had no choice but to sit back and witness the deterioration of the spending power of their currency. The naira is trading for over N1,000 to a United States dollar in the streets, and it has hit a historic low in the official market.

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    It is alarming.

    Is this the ‘Renewed Hope’ Tinubu promised Nigerians? For certain, I am not the only Nigerian asking this very important question. It is on the lips of the keke (tricycle) driver who spends half of his daily earnings to refill his fuel tank. It is on the lips of the petty traders who record low sales every day. Parents and guardians who now struggle to pay their wards extra exorbitant fees are also asking the same question.

    Tinubu’s manifesto ‘Renewed Hope ‘23’ prioritises the creation of sufficient jobs for the country’s teeming population and ramping up of local production of goods, investing in agriculture and public infrastructure, providing economic opportunities for the poorest Nigerians as well as creating better national security architecture to tackle all forms of insecurity.

    Seven months after taking over as Nigeria’s captain, it seems the unprecedented challenges in Africa’s most populous country, from insecurity to a fiscal crisis, poverty and deepening public discontent with the state, have not abated.

    In his first comments as president, Tinubu declared that ‘hope is back for Nigeria’ but the deadly security crises, widespread poverty and hunger, high unemployment and a heavy reliance on dwindling oil revenues have left many frustrated and angry, provoking a mass exodus of mostly young Nigerians in a brain drain crisis known locally as ‘japa’.

    Of course, Mr President has said time and again that he is not oblivious to the travails of Nigerians against the backdrop of a fractured nation, an ailing economy and spiralling insecurity. ‘I am attuned to the hardships that have come. I have a heart that feels and eyes that see,’ Tinubu said in a nationwide broadcast on October 1, 2023 to mark Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Day anniversary while assuring that the pains would be short-lived.

    Yet, the clock is ticking and the ‘Nigeria where hunger, poverty and hardship are pushed into the shadows of an ever-fading past’ is still very hazy. Indeed, the path to progress will be arduous as Nigerians await the transformative leadership that Tinubu has promised.

    • Ezinwanne Onwuka, ezinwanne.dominion@gmail.com.

  • Case for diligent prosecutions

    Case for diligent prosecutions

    SIR: The issue of Police arresting gun runners is not new, but the nabbing of some gun runners by men of the Plateau State Police Command last week stands out. 

    However, Nigerians are clamouring for more. They equally, are making a case for the swift prosecutions or thorough investigations of suspected criminals, post-arrest.

    In recent times, and under the leadership of the Inspector General of Police, IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, the Nigeria Police Force’s tireless efforts have been notably effective in apprehending criminals engaged in various nefarious activities, across the length and breadth of the country. 

    The Police Intelligence Department and Tactical Response Team last week arrested about 67 suspects, including those involved in kidnapping, gun-running, one-chance robbery, and banditry. They recovered 5,454 rounds of live ammunition, 300 live cartridges, 50 empty shells of ammunition, 68 rifles, and 33 different ATM cards. 

    The feat, undoubtedly, is a testament to the dedication and strategic approach of law enforcement, showcasing the unwavering commitment of the police force to curbing crimes and maintaining community safety.

    While applauding these crime-busting accomplishments, it is crucial to consider the next steps to ensure justice serves as a deterrent to potential offenders and criminal-minded persons. 

    Beyond arrests, there is a need for thorough police investigations into the root causes and motivations for criminal activities, by Nigerian youths mostly. This will go a long way to curb the perpetration of crimes.

    The delay in the prosecution of arrested suspects is a matter of concern, which is not to undermine the complexities of the legal process, but to emphasize the urgency in delivering justice as prompt adjudication of cases related to criminal activities, is crucial for maintaining public trust in the legal system. 

    Read Also: Just in: Police will no longer handle prosecutions in courts – AG

    In order to prevent innocent victims from being wrongfully accused, investigating officers should adopt a meticulous approach. Utilizing advanced forensic techniques, gathering credible intelligence, and collaborating with relevant agencies are imperative. 

    A careful examination of identified evidence, coupled with the application of modern technology, will contribute to a more accurate and unbiased investigation process. Regardless of the influence and power a criminal may wield, justice should be made to prevail. 

    It should be glaringly emphasized that no individual, no matter how influential, should be above the law. Law enforcement agencies should remain committed to upholding justice, irrespective of external pressures.

    The fight against crime is not, and will never be a stroll in the park. But it is winnable, especially by the time crime offenders are diligently prosecuted to send a strong message to their ilk.

    •Haroon Aremu,  Abuja.

  • On Mr. President’s education drive

    On Mr. President’s education drive

    SIR: Educating the children is empowering the future. There is no future without the children, and there is no hope for tomorrow without an educated, illumined, and productive population. The seeds for a brighter future are our children for whom we must provide the necessary education and pedagogical accoutrements to bear our torch and carry it into the future.

    According to UNICEF, as of June 2022, one in three children are out of school (OOS) in Nigeria: 10.2 million at the primary level and 8.1 million at the junior secondary school (JSS) level1. 12.4 million children never attended school, and 5.9 million left school early. Nigeria’s OOS population accounts for 15 percent of the global total.

    These statistics are obviously troubling, especially for a very conscientious, proactive, forward-thinking, disciplined, and determined administration. President Bola Tinubu has been on a passionate endeavour to ensure that the future of our country is secure by investing in and securing the education of our children.

    He had expressed concerns about the agitating figure of out-of-school children in the country, saying: “We must address this issue by establishing more schools, recruiting teachers, and providing at least one meal a day for the school children, aligning with the progressive ideology we aim to pursue.”

    At the presentation of the 2024 Appropriation Bill to a joint session of the National Assembly in November 2023, the president emphasised that he was prioritising ‘’human development with particular attention to children, the foundation of our nation’’. In the budget, education gets a chunk of N2.2 trillion, a much higher sum than that of 2023, which was N1.08 trillion.

    Speaking with members of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) at the State House in Abuja, recently, the president asked the governors to fashion a solid scaffolding that ‘’will make the implementation of the school-feeding programme more comprehensive and successful across all states of the federation, taking into consideration the peculiarities of each locality, but working towards having all children in school’’.

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    The president also said ‘the school-feeding programme would encourage more investments in agriculture, particularly in livestock farming and dairy, and that the former Kano State governor and APC chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, had already worked on a proposal that would be shared for input and implementation’’.

    Addressing the challenge of out-of-school children will require an inter-governmental approach, as this problem is not the exclusive burden of the government at the centre. It concerns everyone. It is about our future. Reassuringly, this is the slant from the president’s meeting with the Progressive Governors Forum.

    Also, the president recently approved the sum of N683 billion as the 2024 intervention fund for public tertiary institutions in the country. Universities are to receive N1.9 billion each; polytechnics N1.1 billion each; and colleges of education, N1.3 billion each.

    According to the Executive Secretary of Tertiary Education Trust Fund, TETFund, Sonny Echono, 90.75 percent of the fund is earmarked for direct disbursement; 8.94 percent for designated special projects, and 2.27 percent for response to emerging issues. This is in the fervid effort to revamp our public institutions by providing the needed funding and the necessary tools and environment for academic excellence.

    The Student Loan Scheme and other education-specific initiatives are in the offing as well and are aimed at addressing the long-standing issues in the education sector, as well as creating a more sustainable model of funding for tertiary education.

    The whys and wherefores of these deliberate, spirited, bold, and outstanding interventions on education are to secure today and tomorrow; to protect the future of our children and that of our country.

    We have to prepare our people for the world of today and of the future. Skills, education, and knowledge are the most important currencies in this new age. The Tinubu administration is bringing the future to citizens by its vehement predisposition to educating the children.

    • Fredrick Nwabufo, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Engagement, Abuja.