The Nation Newspaper

Category: Letters

Whither NAFDAC and SON?
- By Leah Nickaf
Sir: It is worrisome that Nigerian markets are still flooded with uncertified, unregistered and harmful products, regularly used by teeming citizens. I am referring to skin-care products, foodstuffs, cosmetics and medicinal drugs, among others, which are not approved by regulatory agencies such as the National Agency for Drug Administration Control, NAFDAC, and the Standard Organisation of Nigeria, SON, among others.

The manufacturers or producers of these harmful products are not to be blamed. SON and NAFDAC, among others, should be sanctioned for compromising their oversight mandates. Their failure to ascertain the worthiness or otherwise of some products used by citizens is responsible for the sickness and deaths of many.

In Nigeria, we feel the pain of rudderless and weak regulation in many areas. It appears that those who are given the duty to regulate even connive with relevant parties to cut corners. And whenever this occurs, society is short-changed and the people are left to live with the unpleasant consequences of such.

Not too long ago, a cross section of Nigerian scientists raised the alarm on food processors and sellers in the country using toxic chemicals to improve the look of many food items, including cassava flour, beans and fish. The experts explained that with the practice, millions of people are subjected to the risk of experiencing kidney problems and cancer.

According to them, weak government testing capacities and informal food supply chains leave traders and fishermen with little oversight and offer almost no protection to unwary consumers. It is pointless arguing that many of the toxic chemicals added as preservatives to the food we consume as citizens are not safe for human consumption.

Although Nigeria lacks statistics on the health effects of these toxic preservatives in foods, there is an increase in diseases such as cancer, birth defects, kidney failure and diabetes in children. These diseases don’t just happen. It is a function of what an individual breathes in or eats.

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Toxic preservatives have cumulative effects on the body, even though they do not kill immediately they are taken. It is something that we need to take more seriously. It is something that is very scary. As humans, our body mass is large and the quantity that we eat is not massive, so we would not die immediately or know that these things are causing harm.

By the time, the effect, kidney or liver problem or cancer, starts to show, maybe 10 or 15 years after, nobody will link it to what was eaten in the past. The use of antibiotics and other drugs in raising fish for the table is also a challenge to human health as it is building resistance in humans.

By the time, the fish is ready for the market, there is no time for the withdrawal period to ensure the effect of the drug given has waned. In developed countries, antibiotics are not licensed for raising fish for consumption. Drugs are only licensed for use in ornamental fish and that is not meant to be consumed.

Again, Nigerians should be concerned about the public health of bleaching creams. There have been a number of reports raising concerns over the safety of cosmetic ingredients and the damages they cause on health.

The effects of cosmetics on public health depend on several indicators: kind and amount of chemical ingredients used in the formulation, time and frequency of cosmetics usage, personal skin condition, and environmental situation.

A large amount of cosmetics and potentially harmful ingredients are used in hairdressing, skin care and nails services. These harmful chemical ingredients are regularly inhaled by beauty professionals, as well as cosmetics users.

In the light of the above gloomy reality, one is forced to ask: what is SON doing, and what would have gone wrong at NAFDAC? In the era of Dora Akunyili, Nigerians for the first time saw how a regulatory agency pursued its activities, with a crusading spirit alien to the world of public service.

Nigerians also saw how the fear of NAFDAC in that era made fake drugs and food dealers’ tremble. For quite some time, this crusading flavour in NAFDAC’s activities has not been visible.

Let those at the helm of affairs in our regulatory agencies sit up and not be laid back or see their domain as a rent post carved out for their selfish pursuit. It is not too late for both SON and NAFDAC to get their acts right. Nigerians cannot afford to be dying or battling with various diseases or ailments as a result of their recklessness. They should both sit up, and do the needful.

•Leah Nickaf,

Nasarawa State University,

Keffi.
September 20, 2023
Clearing the CBN’s Augean stable
- By Debo Adeniran
Sir: Since the removal of the erstwhile governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Godwin Emefiele by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, most Nigerians and critical players in the nation’s financial industry have renewed hope that the government under his watch is determined to see through economic reform policies to heal the country’s ailing economy and bring us out the present economic duodenum. It is trite to emphasise that the CBN is strategic to actualising virtually all the set reforms objectives of the government and the aspirations of the citizens for social reliefs from prevalent agonising economic pains, anguish, sufferings, and hardships the country is currently experiencing.

This task of cleansing the CBN’s Augean stable is, however, extremely onerous especially when we consider revelations of illicit transactions, compromising sleaze, financial recklessness, and rudderless management in close to a decade reign of ex – Governor, Emefiele. This is why President Tinubu set up a Special Investigation Panel led by Jim Obazee to conduct a forensic audit of the account of the apex bank during the tenure of the former helmsman of the apex bank.

There are reports of clandestine as well as overt schemes by CBN cabals to frustrate the investigations of the Obazee-led investigation panel. Preliminary reports filtering into the public domain, however, seem to show that there are lots of worms, maggots and poisonous vermis in the decadent cans of the CBN. Many top management officers of the bank have been fingered in the various financial malpractices during this period. The detention of the bank’s former Director of Finance, Benjamin Fakunle by the Department of State Security Services, DSS is pursuant to an alleged crafty attempt by Emefiele-led management to cover its tracks with a suspicious audit report. Obazee panel has fingered improprieties in the seven-year financial account audit of the bank which is alleged to have deviated from globally recognised, International Financial Reporting Standards, IFRS. Fakunle is also alleged to have paid a whooping N401 million for the spurious audit document in violation of the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria regulations.

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This is just perhaps a tip of the iceberg of financial crimes said to have been committed. Most of them, with diligent investigations and prosecution constitute grave economic sabotage crimes against the nation and her citizens.

For us to comprehend the magnitude of the crimes committed by the CBN against the nation, we call into record the advisory of respected legal activist, Femi Falana, SAN to President Tinubu on empty federal treasury. Falana’s low hanging fruits treaty offered a 22 list of areas where the nation’s funds are cornered awaiting the federal government’s summoning of requisite to access same. Yet, President Buhari was busy borrowing to finance our annual national budget.

If we just use the statistics of Mr. Falana alone, it is clear that the resources of our great country in the hands of individuals, corporate cabals and even some compromised global institutions is sufficient enough for the government to address the infrastructural deficits afflicting the country. An apex bank that is up and doing in discharging its statutory responsibilities and patriotic duties would not have presided over a national economy that is prostrate, broke and insolvent. Funds that could have provided for social needs like sound transportation system – smooth road network, basic healthcare service, qualitative education for citizens, portable water, affordable housing, employment and security of lives and properties.

We unequivocally call on all anti-corruption agencies to beam their searchlights on the operations of the CBN and its principal management officials during this period to fully account for dereliction of their financial, fiduciary responsibilities to the country and citizens. We are confident that the funds outside our national coffers are sufficient to provide the necessary financial sinew to kick start Nigeria socio economic transformation and much vaunted technological-industrial advancement.

•Debo Adeniran

deboadeniran@gmail.com
September 20, 2023
Open letter to VP Shettima
Sir: About a week before you were sworn in as vice president, an open letter was written to former vice president, Yemi Osinbajo as chairman of the NDPHC board. The issues centred on the welfare of the engineers running the various NIPP power plants.

Most of us were hired in 2013 as graduate engineers and have been running the power plants successfully for over 10 years. We have been employed since then and have been working without a pension fund or health insurance.

We were hired and have been on a salary of N200,000 since then with no increase or promotions. It will interest you to know that graduate engineers have been employed over the years even as recently as December 2022 and all of us are earning this same amount. Some of us grew through the ranks to be team leads and heads of departments and are still on this same salary.

In December 2022 the board headed by former Vice President Osinbajo approved a salary increase of 50% across board for all staff but the engineers running the power plants and generating the funds have till date not been captured but those in the headquarters have been enjoying the same since January.

Engineers who had not even written WAEC not to talk of gaining admission to the university have now graduated and are employed and earning the same salary as those of us that have been here for over 10years. Where is the justice in the system?

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When the previous open letter was written fuel price was N189/220 a litre; presently it is N620 a litre. We cannot continue to bear the economic hardship and level of inflation.

Right now schools have resumed and we cannot afford school fees for our children. We can no more feed our families and pay health care bills. We have resulted to borrowing to feed.

Due to the heavy pressure we are presently under we suffer PTSD trying to manage the needs of our family and running of the power plants. This is leading to highly mentally unstable people and this is not healthy and good considering the multi-billion dollar equipment we are operating.

We kindly ask you to use your good office to look into our plea as we are under excruciating pressure. Any action on our side would be seen to be sabotaging the integrity of the national grid that is why we are using this medium.
- Harry Windle,<gasturbineoperatorsng@gmail.com>
September 19, 2023
Tackling current economic hardship
Sir: Nigeria is facing unprecedented economic hardship that has left millions of its citizens struggling to make ends meet. The confluence of various factors, including the global economic downturn, dwindling oil revenues, and the still ravaging COVID-19 pandemic, has exacerbated an already challenging situation. In these trying times, it is imperative for both well-to-do individuals and the government to step up and extend a helping hand to those in need.

The economic challenges faced by Nigeria are multi-faceted. The nation’s heavy reliance on oil exports has made it susceptible to fluctuations in global oil prices. When oil prices plummeted, as they did during the COVID-19 pandemic, Nigeria’s revenue stream took a massive hit. This, coupled with longstanding issues like corruption and mismanagement of resources, has led to a dire economic situation.

Unemployment rates are soaring, and inflation is making it increasingly difficult for ordinary Nigerians to afford basic necessities. Families are struggling to put food on the table, and access to healthcare and education is becoming more of a luxury than a right. The economic hardship has left vulnerable populations, such as widows, orphans, and the elderly, in dire straits.

At this critical juncture, well-to-do individuals in Nigeria have a moral obligation to extend their resources to help those in need. Philanthropic gestures from individuals and private sector entities can make a significant impact on alleviating suffering. This includes providing financial aid, donating food and essential supplies, and supporting local initiatives that aim to empower communities.

Read Also: YCE raises concern over economic hardship, Ilorin religious issues

Furthermore, successful business leaders and entrepreneurs can create job opportunities through investments and expansion, thus contributing to reducing the alarming unemployment rates in the country. By doing so, they not only aid the needy but also strengthen the economy in the long run.

The government bears a fundamental responsibility to address the economic hardships plaguing the nation. Comprehensive policies and strategies should be implemented to stimulate economic growth, reduce poverty, and create a more equitable society.

This may include investments in infrastructure development, diversification of the economy beyond oil, and the establishment of social safety nets to protect vulnerable citizens. Additionally, there must be a commitment to transparency and accountability to tackle corruption and mismanagement of public funds, which have long hindered progress.

The most effective response to Nigeria’s current economic hardship is a collaborative effort between well-to-do individuals and the government. The government should create an enabling environment for philanthropic activities, offering incentives to encourage private sector support for social causes.

Moreover, well-to-do individuals and philanthropic organizations can work alongside the government to identify areas of need and develop sustainable solutions. This synergy will maximize the impact of humanitarian gestures, creating a more resilient and prosperous society.

Nigeria is facing a severe economic crisis that demands urgent attention and action. Well-to-do individuals and the government must join forces to extend humanitarian gestures to the needy during this trying moment. This not only reflects the spirit of Ubuntu, “I am because we are,” but also lays the foundation for a more inclusive and prosperous Nigeria. Together, we can navigate these challenging times and build a brighter future for all citizens.
- Usman Abdullahi Koli, mernoukoli@gmail.com.
September 19, 2023
Obasanjo’s tirade on Oyo Obas
- By: Adewuyi Adegbite
Sir: Former President Olusegun Obasanjo is a respected Yoruba man and one of the leading lights of the ethnic group who is expected to guide the group and protect its interests. OBJ as he is fondly called is bold, blunt and decisive. You don’t have to belabour yourself to know where he belongs on any issue. With the positions he had occupied nationally and internationally, his presence anywhere is awesome. That was why the Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde invited the elder statesman to commission some projects executed by his administration in Iseyin, Oyo State on Friday, September 14. Expectedly, the Oyo Obas were well represented on the occasion but unfortunately for them, OBJ turned them into an object of ridicule.

From the clips of the video that later surfaced, Chief Obasanjo spoke to the Obas as if he was addressing kindergarten pupils. The sin of the Obas was that they did not observe the protocol in rising on their feet when governor and the former president entered. He then ordered them to rise on their feet and then to sit. The Obas, like rain beaten chickens, obeyed.

Read Also: Dispute stalls Federal Govt, Emefiele plea bargain talks

If outsiders had disrespected our obas that way, would OBJ have overlooked the affront? OBJ did not act as a good elder on that occasion. With their positions as custodians of our culture and tradition from time immemorial, if they had erred as he accused them, he should have, as a good elder, called their attention to this privately. Ridiculing these traditional rulers amounted to stripping them of their apparels in the open. In this instance, it was not the traditional rulers that were ridiculed but OBJ himself. Even if he has an axe to grind with a particular traditional ruler as being rumoured in some quarters, he should not have made all the traditional rulers to pay for the sins of one.

Governor Makinde himself has his own share of the blame. Shall we say he did not see any dignitary in Oyo State who can perform the role OBJ played on the occasion? Even Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, a respected elder statesman and Makinde’s erstwhile godfather?

The traditional rulers themselves have their portion of blame. Many of them have turned themselves to errand boys of those in power. It is high time our traditional rulers assert their positions in the society as custodians of culture, tradition and revered fathers of their various communities. They should stop hobnobbing with politicians. An Oba who runs with hare and hunts with hounds will not be respected.

•Adewuyi Adegbite,

ayekooto05@gmail.com
September 18, 2023
Music, cults, and drugs
- By Fredrick Nwabufo
Sir: In the 80s, ‘resistance to oppression’ governed the zeitgeist. Reggae music was hugely popular. It resonated with the yearnings of the people for freedom from autocracy, domination, and oppression. Reggae was the conduit for social expression; it was the euphonious channel for agitation and for resisting the ‘sistem’.

The Mandators evoked the spirit of the times with the ‘Crisis’ album. The album had hits such as Rat Race and Inflation. Majek Fashek spoke for a generation with the album – Prisoner of Conscience. And Orits Williki with the album – Tribulation. There were many others in that league.

There was purpose to music. There was logic – not only symphony. There was a method. And there was message – not only melody.

At the time when the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) exercised near monopoly over terrestrial broadcasting, young people had very limited options for degenerative entertainment. Nudity, drugs, and violence which are today ubiquitous digital divertissements, were uncommon in music videos. There was diligent censorship. And lyrics of songs were sanitised.

There was progressive cultural conditioning and value adaptation. Funmi Adams’ ‘Nigeria my beloved country’ was every youngster’s anthem. And she reminded the young of the primacy of education in ‘Bata mi a dun koko ka’.

Today, the values and innocence of old have volatilised. All gone. Nudity, drugs, and violence are the very enhancing contents for music videos. The lyrics of songs are heavily sexualised – with themes around drugs, and violence. Pornography is buffet – available on social platforms – and intruding when unsolicited.

Songs and skits promoting drugs, s3x, cultism, and violence populate the digital biome. Youngsters are in a tournament of the grotesque over who has the most depraved s3x tape.

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A lack of values, insolence, indiscipline, recklessness, and debauchery is the new conditioning. It is the zeitgeist. It will get worse.

What is the way forward?

The youth will need new creative distractions. It is a tall order. S3x and the ridiculous sell. Nuisance value has become rewarding. Notoriety is now fame, and the despicable now celebrated. Supplanting the current order will take an evolutionary displacement. The times will eventually change – either for good or for bad – as it is with every social progression.

But what needs to be done in the immediate is for agencies saddled with the responsibility of sanitising public contents and of promoting national values to be alive to their responsibility. Entertainers promoting drugs, cultism and violence should be made to face the law. There should be stern reprimand for the promotion of tendencies capable of inducing crime and violence. These entertainers should not be ambassadors to national causes or set as examples to the youth. That is rewarding bad behaviour.

As a society, there should be premium for discipline, hard work, real value, and integrity. We must de-emphasise the culture of profligacy, decadent opulence, and vanity which fuels the trafficking in libertinism.

The need for value re-orientation and new socialisation is a task that must be actuated by citizens, groups, government, traditional institutions, the media, and all concerned members of society.

•Fredrick Nwabufo,

<fredricknwabufo@yahoo.com>
September 18, 2023
On the gruesome murder of Rivers DPO
- By Ike Willie-Nwobu
Sir: The tragic killing of Bako Angbashim, a Divisional Police Officer who was beheaded in Ahoada, Rivers State, has once again laid bare the grave danger law enforcement officers face in the country.

For anyone familiar with the Nigerian story, the Niger Delta has long held a haunting place in Nigerian lore. Rich and prodigiously blessed with crude oil which is easily one of nature’s most precious gifts, the region has for years experienced what it is like to live in a country that is as chaotic as it is unsafe.

As the Niger Delta region has produced the oil that has powered Nigeria’s stuttering economic advancement, it has suffered criminal neglect. Now, neglect can be obnoxiously prolific. In the case of the Niger Delta, neglect has seeped into spores, polluting its rivers, fouling its air and sickening its people.

As a people’s gift has tragically become their curse, they have responded with militancy manifested in acts that are as criminal as they are about sending a message. It started with kidnapping, and full-fledged economic sabotage, before quickly becoming organized and morphing into full-fledged militancy.

It took an uneasy truce reached with the federal government for the vicious attacks on Nigeria’s national assets to subside. But for all its stellar gifts, Rivers State remains high on tension and crime. Cultists, oil thieves and every other kind of criminal imaginable call the state home.

Read Also: Dispute stalls Federal Govt, Emefiele plea bargain talks

For Bako Angbashim, an indigene of Nasarawa State who was serving his country in a state he had called home for years, death was always lurking around the corner.

In a country where inefficiency and ineptitude are flagrantly extolled, where criminals are brutally efficient, the late officer had acquired a reputation for pristine professionalism, endearing himself to the people in the process. So, he had to be killed, in a way to send a message. He was not just killed but beheaded, his vital organs cut off.

The gallant officer’s death was staged in such a manner as to mock Nigeria and send out the message that criminals can toy with those who defend the country.

It begs the question: If a police officer can be decapitated with so much savagery, what is the fate of ordinary everyday Nigerians? For all Nigerians know, the tragic police officer only got in the crosshairs of his killers for taking his job seriously, perhaps too seriously?

What had he exposed? What was he fighting? Cultism? Oil theft? Or was it some other serious crime that had not yet become publicly known?

One Gift Divine Okpara aka 2baba has been fingered in the gruesome murder. He has been declared wanted. It remains to be seen how long it will take before he is made to face the law.

But before he is caught, before all those who commit grievous crimes against Nigerians are caught, serious measures must be taken to improve the security of those who keep Nigeria safe.

They would include soldiers, police officers, personnel of paramilitary groups and even vigilantes.

If insecurity is to be reined in, those who form a strong wall against it must be strengthened to combat it. There is no other way.

The alternative is for criminals to continue to mock the country by committing the kind of crime that has now claimed the life of Bako Angbashim. While his family is left to lick its wound and rue its fate, more Nigerian families must not be plunged into the unimaginable fate of losing a loved one in such a manner.

While efforts must continue to rid Nigeria of bad eggs, collaboration between communities and security agents must pick up pace to ensure that more communities like Ahoada are not turned into a hiding place for the criminals who prowl Nigeria.

•Ike Willie-Nwobu,

Ikewilly9@gmail.com
September 18, 2023
Coup wave: Why Nigeria will remain an exception
Sir: Dissatisfied with the ruling of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal, not a few misguided Nigerians continued the whispers for the military coup wave spreading in Sahel Africa to get to Nigeria. This desperate call for Nigeria to follow Gabon, Niger, Burkina Faso, Guinea, Chad, Mali, and Sudan is coming from a culmination of discontent with the current political order and the consequent mis-governance.

As a matter of fact, the coup fever has compelled few uneasy African presidents to reshuffle the top military personnel for fear of being unseated by them. I don’t think Nigeria will go that way.

Nigerians are not that illogical and military not as restless. She has had her own share of military interventions and the scars are there for all to see. The struggle for democracy in the 90s really demystified the Nigerian military as an institution that cannot operate without the corrupt politicians they overthrew. Even the junta in Niger had to appoint Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine as Prime Minister. We are talking about someone that had previously served as finance minister, as if he was not a France puppet.

Moreover, today’s military and its paramilitary cousins have shown in many ways than one that they are not on the side of the people or the constitution. Despite being fellow victims of the decrepit system, they also have weaponised their uniforms and items of authorities to abuse helpless Nigerians (#EndSARS). Are these the undisciplined bunch some Nigerians are calling to take over? By its training, the military only know how to invade and loot conquered territories.

High levels of distrust will make military intervention a very dangerous one in today’s Nigeria. Nigeria is far more heterogeneous than the nations that are rejoicing over coups. We have sadly become dangerously suspicious of one another that any undemocratic takeover would be considered an ethnic or religious capture. We would read meaning to the identity of the officer in charge and those around him.

Read ALso: Gabon/Niger Coups: Greek gift or Achilles heels

I have mentioned that Nigeria is not francophone, irrational, has a more mature military and populace neither has she the ignominy of tolerating any individual to remain on the seat of power for countless decades.

Unlike those nations, Nigeria’s democracy is not as illiberal. Elections have remained consistent, predictable and foreseeable creating opportunities to change any unwanted administration. Again, despite its imperfections, Nigerian democracy is multi-partied, caste and poly-branched that singling out any ruling party, executive or legislature at whatever tier is practically impossible. Everybody is involved one way or the other. You can’t accuse the president or National Assembly and excuse the governor or state assembly. You cannot also claim all legislators or governors are bad and so sweep everybody away for what we have monikered “benevolent dictator”.

Originally initiated by Lateef Jakande but truncated by the military, Lagos launched its rail services some weeks ago as if it was a lunar landing. Soldiers will only make us frog jump 40 years backwards.

I hear Mali’s junta wants to drop French as its official language. Have the military leaders agreed on the new language and what it will cost to translate textbooks and other literature into the new language? Will teachers now be trained in the new language? These silly decisions by power grabbing soldiers only retard societies.

Those few misguided Nigerians need to jettison the thought of having a potentate and his self-appointed lieutenants whipping us into line. The answer to our democratic deficiencies is application of more democracy and not less. We should continue to explore and exploit every avenue our institutionalised republic has provided with its various funnels of checks, balances, rewards and punishments. The judiciary, legislature, opposition parties, impeachments, recalls, media, civil societies, trade unions and other democratic instruments are what we should continue to utilise for the nation of our dreams.

And to the governing elite, they should not fold their hands and think their families are safe in state houses or abroad. There are worse things than a military coup. Insurgencies, militancy, separatism, kidnappings, crimes, general anarchy and complete disregard for constituted authorities are informal coups whose convulsion will pop the air out of their inflated balloons.
- Ayodele Okunfolami, Festac, Lagos.
September 15, 2023
As Azare’s new main market finally gets an access road
Sir: In the heart of Katagum Local Government of Bauchi State, the Azare New Main Market has long been a hub of commercial activities and a vital source of livelihood for countless businessmen and traders. However, a persistent issue has cast a shadow over the market’s potential – the lack of an access road. For years, this vital artery was missing, making it increasingly difficult for both merchants and customers to reach the market, and as a result, the local economy suffered.

The absence of a proper access road to the Azare New Main Market created numerous challenges for the community. Traders struggled to transport their goods to and from the market, often facing logistical nightmares and financial losses. Customers found it increasingly inconvenient to visit the market, leading to a decline in footfall and a subsequent decrease in commercial activities. Businessmen and traders, reluctant to relocate from the old market due to the lack of infrastructure, further exacerbated the problem.

However, hope has arrived in the form of the current caretaker chairman, Katagum Local Government, Hon. Musa Azare, appointed by the governor of Bauchi State, Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed in July. Recognizing the pressing need for a solution, Musa Azare has taken the initiative to address this longstanding challenge. Under his leadership, the wheels of progress are finally turning.

Read Also: Fears, frustration mount over scarcity of new naira notes

The commencement of work on the access road marks a significant milestone for the entire community. It represents a commitment to revitalizing the local economy and improving the quality of life for residents. With a suitable access road in place, the market is set to regain its status as a thriving commercial hub, attracting customers from far and wide.

The positive impact of this development cannot be overstated. As the access road project progresses, it is expected to stimulate economic growth in Katagum LGA. Merchants will enjoy easier access to the market, enabling them to expand their businesses and increase their income. Customers will be more inclined to frequent the market, rejuvenating commercial activities and creating a vibrant local economy.

Moreover, the construction of the access road will create job opportunities for the local population, providing them with a chance to earn a livelihood and improve their standard of living. This project demonstrates a commitment to community development and empowerment, with the potential to transform the lives of many.

As we look to the future, the story of the Azare New Main Market’s access road serves as a reminder of the transformative power of local leadership and community-driven initiatives. Musa Azare’s dedication to addressing this challenge is a testament to the potential for positive change when leaders prioritize the needs of their constituents.

The Azare New Main Market in Katagum LGA is on the cusp of a remarkable transformation. With the access road project underway, the market is poised to reclaim its position as a bustling centre of commerce, benefiting both traders and the local community. Musa Azare’s commitment to this endeavour is a shining example of leadership that prioritizes the prosperity and well-being of the people. The future is bright for the Azare New Main Market, and Katagum LGA as a whole, as it embarks on a journey of renewed economic growth and opportunity.
- Abdullahi Rufa’i Adamu, rufaiabdullahiadamu@gmail.com
September 15, 2023
On President Tinubu’s ‘Four D’ diplomacy’
Sir: Nigeria stands at the precipice of a transformative shift in its foreign policy approach. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has unveiled a visionary framework known as the “Four D’s Diplomacy” – a groundbreaking strategy aimed at infusing modern solutions into Nigeria’s foreign policy initiatives. This bold initiative centers around four core principles: Development, Democracy, Demography, and Diaspora, offering a comprehensive roadmap to address the intricate challenges of the 21st century.

Development shines a spotlight on propelling Nigeria’s economic growth and fostering sustainable development. This involves engaging in strategic international collaborations and partnerships to attract investments, enhance trade opportunities, and harness cutting-edge technologies. The overarching goal is to position Nigeria as a hub for trade and investment, thereby bolstering its economic prosperity.

Democracy as the second “D” aims to reinforce democratic principles both domestically and internationally. This entails unwavering support for democratic institutions, advocacy for good governance, and the promotion of democratic values worldwide.

Demography, recognizes Nigeria’s demographic prowess, boasting one of the largest and fastest-growing populations globally. To harness this advantage, Nigeria seeks to engage in diplomatic endeavors that address vital issues such as youth empowerment, education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. Investing in the nation’s youth and confronting demographic challenges head-on are essential steps toward securing a brighter and more prosperous future.

The final “D,” Diaspora, underscores the importance of engaging with the Nigerian diaspora—a vast and talented community of Nigerians residing abroad. This strategy aims to create opportunities for diaspora engagement in Nigeria’s development while providing support and assistance to Nigerians living abroad.

Read Also: I’m no President to give excuses- Tinubu

President Tinubu’s vision extends beyond mere principles; it outlines strategic approaches to gear Nigeria’s foreign policy toward modern solutions to complex challenges. These are, innovation and technology;; capacity building which entails investment in education and skills development, particularly in STEM fields, to create a highly educated and skilled workforce capable of addressing infrastructure and healthcare challenges, collaboration with other nations and international organizations on joint research projects, knowledge sharing, and cooperative efforts to tackle global challenges such as climate change and public health crises and diaspora engagement, among others.

By seamlessly integrating these strategic approaches into the “Four D’s Diplomacy,” Nigeria stands poised to harness modern solutions, effectively addressing complex challenges and securing its place as a global leader in confronting the multifaceted issues of the modern world. President Tinubu’s visionary foreign policy framework represents a profound commitment to a future where Nigeria is not just a participant but a driving force in shaping the global agenda.
- Ayobami Steven Akinola, akinolaa61@gmail.com
September 15, 2023