The Nation Newspaper

Category: Letters

  • G-20: When Nigeria went fishing

    G-20: When Nigeria went fishing

    SIR: In June, the Debt Management Office (DMO) described Nigeria’s debt service-to-revenue ratio of 73.5 percent as ‘’unsustainable and a threat’’. The DMO said: “The country’s debt stock remains sustainable under these criteria; space has been reduced when compared to Nigeria’s self-imposed debt limit of 40 percent set in the medium-term debt management strategy (MTDS), 2020-2023. On the other hand, the debt service-to-revenue ratio at 73.5 percent in 2023 exceeds the recommended threshold of 50 percent due to low revenue, which means that there is a need to significantly increase government revenue. Under the alternative scenario, the total public debt-to-GDP ratio at 45.4 percent in 2023 exceeds Nigeria’s self-imposed debt limit of 40 percent. “

    In May, KPMG warned that Nigeria might spend over 100 percent of its revenue on debt servicing. Clearly, a shift from this status quo has not only become necessary but also critical for the survival of the nation.

    Nigeria has a revenue challenge, but with unchecked borrowing, this problem becomes compounded. So, the government has to come up with innovative measures of driving revenue as well as enchanting investment while weaning itself off prodigious borrowing.

    In August, President Bola Tinubu said his administration was committed to breaking the cycle of overreliance on borrowing for public spending which results in the burden of debt servicing. The direness and exigency of the time demands this forward-thinking, innovation, and discipline. Borrowing has its edge, but when unmitigated and without financial discipline, it becomes an encumbrance to growth. 

    Nigeria has played a good hand at the G20 summit in India. The country went fishing for investments, partnerships, and not for loans. This is a diametrical shift from the status quo. As it is today, it is much more prudent and decent to go fishing for opportunities for the country than to go borrowing.

    According to correspondence from the presidency, Indian investors made financial pledges amounting to $14 billion during the Nigeria-India Presidential Roundtable and Conference in New Delhi, India. These investors are said to include Indorama Petrochemical Limited which pledged a new investment of $8 billion in the expansion of its fertilizer production and petrochemical facility in Eleme, Rivers State, and Jindal Steel and Power Limited, one of India’s largest private steel producers, which committed to investing $3 billion in Nigeria, following discussions with President Tinubu on the side-lines of the G20 Summit.

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    Also, President of SkipperSeil Limited, Jitender Sachdeva was said to have announced that, following President Tinubu’s personal intervention, he was investing $1.6 billion in the establishment of 20 100MW power generation plants across the states of northern Nigeria, amounting to 2,000MW of new power within the next four years.

    Bharti Enterprises, a major first-generation corporation in India with interests in telecom, space communications, digital solutions, insurance, processed foods, real estate, and hospitality, was said to have expressed its commitment to invest an additional $700 million in Nigeria, with work set to begin immediately.

    The president was said to have approved finalisation on a new $1 billion agreement to bring the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) to 40% self-sufficiency in local manufacturing and production of defence equipment in-country by 2027 through a comprehensive new partnership with the managing arm of the Military-Industrial Complex of the Indian government.

    A third MoU on Infrastructure Development was said to have been signed between the Infrastructure Corporation of Nigeria Limited (InfraCorp) and Invest India, the National Investment Promotion, and Facilitation Agency of India.

    Going by the reports from India, it has been a fruitful outing for Nigeria – if not the most rewarding from a single event. The leadership has shown capacity and facility for private capital attraction, and it is essential that this shift to innovativeness is sustained.

    However, it is important that the business environment is made conducive for investors. It is one thing to attract private capital, and it is another to retain it. Nigeria is currently ranked 131 out of 190 economies on ease of doing business. The business environment, today, is not very friendly. From tremulous infrastructure, poor power supply, asphyxiating taxes, insecurity, bureaucracy, corruption, to an undisciplined civil service – all these contribute to making the business environment precarious.

    Already, the government is beginning to address the constraints to business as regards taxes; I believe it will look into other factors. To go fishing is a more intelligent approach than to go borrowing unchecked.

    • Fredrick Nwabufo, fredricknwabufo@yahoo.com

  • The African Union in multipolar world

    The African Union in multipolar world

    By Ayobami Akinola Steven

    SIR: In a world marked by constant change and evolving global dynamics, the African Union (AU) stands at a pivotal juncture as it navigates the complexities of a multipolar global landscape. The era of a few superpowers dominating international affairs is giving way to a more interconnected and diverse international system. As the collective voice of Africa on the world stage, the AU faces the challenge of adapting to these shifting global realities while leveraging them for the continent’s benefit.

    The emergence of a multipolar world marks a departure from the bipolar order that defined the Cold War era. In this new paradigm, power is dispersed among multiple centers, including rising nations and regional blocs, each exerting influence on the global stage. Alongside traditional global powers like the United States and Russia, countries such as China, India, Brazil, and regional entities like the European Union have risen as significant forces.

    Africa, with its burgeoning population exceeding one billion and abundant resources, has garnered increased global attention. Its economic growth, youthful demographic, and strategic significance have drawn the interest of both established and emerging powers. In this context, the AU, representing 55 member states, holds a unique position to manage Africa’s growing relevance in the multipolar world.

    A fundamental mission of the AU is to promote unity and cooperation among African nations. In a multipolar world, this unity takes on heightened importance as African states seek to amplify their influence collectively on the global stage. The AU serves as a platform for consensus-building and conflict resolution, facilitating a common African voice.

    Africa’s pursuit of economic integration, exemplified by initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), aligns with the multipolar world’s emphasis on regional and global trade. By encouraging intra-African trade and reducing trade barriers, the AU aims to position the continent as a formidable player in the global economy.

    In the fluid landscape of a multipolar world, alliances and partnerships are essential. The AU actively engages with an array of global actors, including the United States, the European Union, China, and Russia. These partnerships can bring investments, infrastructure development, and diplomatic support, but they require careful negotiation to safeguard Africa’s interests.

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    While the multipolar world offers opportunities, it also presents challenges for the AU. Striking a balance between competing global powers while protecting African interests requires finesse. The AU must avoid overreliance on any one partner, maintaining its autonomy in decision-making.

    It is imperative to ensure that the benefits of multipolarity are distributed equitably across the African continent. The AU must work diligently to prevent the exacerbation of existing inequalities and disparities among African nations. With diverse interests at play, the AU faces the ongoing challenge of mediating conflicts within and beyond the continent. Its peacekeeping efforts must remain adaptable in response to the shifting dynamics of a multipolar world.

    The African Union’s role in a multipolar world is of paramount importance for the continent’s future. By nurturing unity, promoting economic integration, and strategically engaging with global partners, the AU can harness the opportunities presented by the evolving international system. Nevertheless, it must remain vigilant in safeguarding African interests and address the multifaceted challenges associated with navigating a complex, multipolar world.

    In doing so, the AU can contribute to a more prosperous and stable future for Africa while actively participating in the global dialogue on multipolarity and multilateralism. Recent developments, such as the AU’s permanent membership in the G20, signify the changing tides of international relations and create opportunities for Africa to assert itself more assertively on the global stage.

    • Ayobami Akinola Steven, akinolaa61@gmail.com

  • On the presidential election tribunal verdict

    On the presidential election tribunal verdict

    By Richard Odusanya

    SIR: In the golden words of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States of America: “Ballots are the rightful and peaceful successors of bullets; and that when ballots have fairly and constitutionally decided, there can be no successful appeal back to bullets; that there can be no successful appeal except to ballots themselves, at succeeding elections.”

    This is time for introspection as all five judges of the Appeal Court unanimously upheld the election of Asíwájú Bola Ahmed Tinubu as president.

    Blinded by self-inflating delusion – the preconceived idea about outcomes of the elections is cast in gross ignorance fuelled by bitter envy, lies and unfounded prejudices. This is a case of irredeemable helplessness.

    Simply put, ‘IREV’ is just the most convenient excuse the losing parties have for their losses. The votes cast at the polling units were the true wishes of the voters. Instead of crying endlessly over ‘IREV’, Atiku Abubakar of the PDP and Peter Obi of Labour Party should have provided the form EC8s signed at contested polling units and demonstrate that what their agents signed were different from what INEC declared. This is what is expected of the litigants so as to deepen our democracy and the processes. 

    Painfully, what was noticed is the demonstration of emotional theatrics, whereby they started digging up irrelevant issues about a candidate’s academic records and a supposed drug forfeiture case.

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    The fact is that political parties can hardly be deceived by election results, because they have their agents who give then real situation reports from the polling units. The party leaders are the ones trying to hoodwink their supporters and the general public about the election by crying rigging with no evidence to support their claims.

    We need a different starting point – our problems are not the institutions, but our mind-sets as evidenced by the activities of many of our citizens, particularly the religionists misrepresenting God. Religion has descended to the abysmal levels of inanity, hijacked by mischief makers to enrich themselves. How do you explain “Men of God” turning their pulpits into an arena for partisanship?

    I daresay that religious bigotry, intolerance, ethnic jingoism, hypocrisy and extremism are the real problems of Nigeria.

    I am nonetheless optimistic that a better Nigeria is visible! In every nation-state or country from the ancient period to the present, it is the imperative for a new beginning that we must embrace, which is, mind restructuring.

    • Richard Odusanya, odusanyagold@gmail.com

  • International literacy day and public libraries

    International literacy day and public libraries

    By Daniel Ighakpe

    SIR: September 8, of every year is observed as ‘International Literacy Day’. The theme for the 2023 International Literacy Day is: ”Promoting literacy for a world in transition: Building the foundation for sustainable and peaceful societies.” This theme, among others, highlights how developing the ability to read and write, as well as developing numeracy skills, can engender inclusiveness and equity.

    One of the most critical forms of social infrastructure that we have, that can be used to promote literacy, is the library. Unfortunately, it is also one of the most undervalued! The public library has also been described as a “welfare centre, which provides useful services to the community by fostering education, promoting culture, recreation and dissemination of information to all sections of the society.”

    As gateways to knowledge and culture, libraries play a fundamental role in society. The resources and services they offer create opportunities for learning, support literacy and education, and help shape new ideas and perspectives that are central to a creative and innovative society. They also help ensure an authentic record of knowledge created and accumulated by past generations. Without libraries, it would be difficult to advance research and human knowledge, or preserve knowledge and heritage for future generations.

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    What are some of the challenges facing public libraries in Nigeria today? One problem is their scarcity. So, it will be very much appreciated if more public libraries are established across various communities/neighbourhoods.

    Related to this is that public libraries are often unattractive and poorly maintained, while in most cases, the infrastructural facilities are inadequate. This is apparently because the library buildings and the systems that sustain them are underfunded, and probably neglected. This problem can be tackled by improving funding for the public library system. More public support – such as through the contributions of philanthropists – can be of much benefit in this regard.

    Other problems include that the books in stock at the libraries are usually outdated. It is quite rare to find new and current books or journals. Also, reference materials, where they exist, are usually old and dusty. Audio-visual materials are also usually hard to come by. In addition, the quality of manpower is frequently not up to expectations.

    A functional library is expected to stock all kinds of items that add to knowledge – from books to audio and visual materials, internet access, artefacts that advance the cultural and recreational needs of the society, and so on.

    Relevant authorities will do well to establish more public libraries, maintain existing ones, and make them more attractive to meet the informational, educational, and recreational needs of the people.

    • Daniel Ighakpe. FESTAC Town, Lagos.

  • Breaking the stigma of mental health

    Breaking the stigma of mental health

    By Lawal Halimat Ohunene

    SIR: Mental health is a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community. Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being

    Therefore, in the realm of health and wellness, mental health is often an overlooked aspect. While physical fitness and nutrition receive a significant amount of attention, mental well-being tends to be stigmatized and ignored. It’s time we break the stigma surrounding mental health and acknowledge its importance as a vital component of overall well-being.

    It is essential to understand that mental health is not a sign of weakness or a character flaw. Just like any physical illness, mental health conditions require care, support, and treatment. It is estimated that around one in four people will experience a mental health problem at some point in their lives. These conditions can range from anxiety and depression to more severe disorders like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. By stigmatizing mental health, we only add to the burden already carried by individuals suffering from these conditions.

    The consequences of dismissing mental health as less important than physical health are far-reaching. Mental health issues not only affect an individual’s emotional and psychological well-being but also impact their physical health. Untreated mental health conditions can lead to chronic stress, sleep disturbances, weakened immune functions, and even an increased risk of developing physical illnesses, such as heart disease and diabetes. Ignoring mental health undermines one’s ability to fully live a fulfilling and productive life.

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    Moreover, the societal stigma attached to mental health prevents individuals from seeking help and support. Society’s judgment and discrimination can make people feel ashamed or embarrassed this can lead to isolation, leading them to suffer in silence. This perpetuation of the stigma must end. We need to create an environment where individuals feel safe and encouraged to speak openly about their mental health concerns without fear of judgment or alienation.

    Embracing mental health as a vital part of overall well-being requires collective effort. Educational institutions, workplaces, and community organizations should prioritize mental health literacy and provide resources that promote mental well-being. Governments should invest in mental health services, ensuring accessible and affordable care for all citizens. Media platforms should play a responsible role in portraying mental health accurately, steering away from harmful stereotypes and sensationalism.

    Individuals can also contribute by being compassionate and supportive. By fostering a supportive environment, we can create a society that prioritizes mental health as much as physical health.

    In conclusion, it is high time we break the stigma surrounding mental health and embrace it as a vital part of overall well-being. Mental health concerns a significant portion of the population and can have severe consequences if left untreated. By prioritizing mental health, we not only support individual well-being but also create a more compassionate and inclusive society. Let us stand together, break the stigma, and ensure that mental health receives the recognition and care it deserves.

    • Lawal Halimat Ohunene, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria.

  • Navigating E-drama and cyberbullying

    Navigating E-drama and cyberbullying

    • By Wasiu Oluwasegun

    Sir: In today’s digital age, social media platforms have become integral parts of our lives, offering connectivity, information sharing, and entertainment. Among these platforms, Twitter (X) stands out as a dynamic and fast-paced microblogging platform that allows users to express themselves, share thoughts, and engage with a diverse range of content. However, this digital realm isn’t immune to challenges, with e-drama and cyberbullying emerging as two significant issues affecting users’ online experiences.

    The term e-drama, or electronic drama, is a term that encapsulates the various conflicts, controversies, and heated debates that often surface on social media platforms. It is commonly and loosely termed ‘dragging’.  Users often find themselves embroiled in intense discussions, responding rapidly to tweets and comments without taking the time to consider the consequences.

    While e-drama may seem like a minor annoyance, the more sinister issue of cyberbullying is a growing concern. Cyberbullying involves the use of digital platforms to harass, threaten, or demean individuals. On Twitter (X), where opinions and viewpoints are shared publicly, users can be targeted for their beliefs, appearance, or personal attributes. The 2023 general elections created a lot of scenarios that led to a party hating on the other due to differing opinions on presidential candidates of the political parties concerned. Sadly, the anonymity provided by the internet can embolden bullies to engage in hurtful behaviour without facing immediate consequences.

    What measures should be taken to deal with this menace? As a social media user and enthusiast, be mindful of your judgment. Before jumping into discussions or responding to provocative tweets, take a moment to assess the situation. Is the topic genuinely worth engaging with, or is it likely to escalate into unnecessary drama? Mindful engagement involves choosing your battles wisely and refraining from adding fuel to the fire. This goes a long way in saving your head from ‘dragging’.

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    Similarly, if you come across cyberbullying or hate speech, don’t hesitate to report it. Twitter (X) has mechanisms in place to address such issues. Reporting inappropriate content helps maintain the platform’s integrity and protects users from harm. It helps your mental health too.

    When the online environment becomes overwhelming, it’s okay to take a step back. Spend time engaging in offline activities that bring joy and relaxation.

    Ultimately, the responsibility to shape a positive digital environment lies with each user. By adopting mindful practices and fostering respectful interactions, we can collectively transform platforms like Twitter into spaces where diverse opinions are welcomed without descending into negativity.

    •Wasiu Oluwasegun, Alli (Mr)

    Lagos State University, Ojo.

  • On the spate of coups in Africa

    On the spate of coups in Africa

    • By Ibrahim Mustapha

    Sir: The recent military coup in Gabon which ousted and brought to an end the Ali Bongo’s ruling dynasty did not come to many people as a surprise. The Gabon coup which is the eighth in quick succession since 2020 came at a wrong time when Africa’s regional bloc, ECOWAS, has failed to diplomatically resolve the coup in Niger Republic and reinstate the dethroned democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum. The military coup which is sweeping across African countries like hurricane reveals how representative democracy has failed the black continent.

    Military regime has never been an alternative to democracy. In the early 1980s when the khaki men held sway across several African countries, there was neither record of good governance nor socio-economic development. The military regimes were accused of corruption, inequalities, brazen abuse of human rights, embezzlement of public resources resulting in massive poverty and, above all, muzzling of press freedom.

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    In as much as military regimes had failed the black nations, so have constitutional democracies failed the people. When the Western countries packaged and handed democracy to Africa, they did so believing that the set of rules and regulations governing it would be judiciously implemented.

    For instance, in a constitutional democracy, there must be free, fair and periodic elections. The system also sets term limits for elected leaders. However, these set of rules and regulations for the success of the system are not only contravened but also abused with impunity.

    Some African leaders, through constitutional amendments, ensure they bend the rules to elongate their tenures in power. Even the electoral umpires that are statutorily charged to conduct free and fair elections declare false results under duress by the power that may be.

    Consequently, elections in Africa are characterised by violence, voter inducement and systemic rigging. There are many reasons for military incursion into democracy in Africa. Without a doubt, the quality of democracy in Africa is at its lower ebb. This can be seen through an entrenched and widespread of poverty, disease, insecurity, unemployment, inequalities and corruption.

    Besides, the sit tight syndrome whereby some African leaders spend over 50 years in power and refuse to vacate office even when roundly defeated at the polls must have contributed greatly to the current cycle of coups threatening the African continent. With the exception of some West African countries like Nigeria, Ghana and South Africa, where periodic elections are conducted, other African countries witness the reign of civilian dictators who are the alpha and omega.

    Military coups are not the solutions to multi-dimensional problems bedevilling African countries. The solution before the poorly developed continent are: strengthening the constitutional democracies, abolishing the rule of dynasties where few leaders want to rule for eternity, promoting good governance and setting agenda for foreign powers. These measures, if faithfully adopted, would serve as a compass that will help to navigate the continent out of trouble and keep our military in the barracks.

    •Ibrahim Mustapha,

    Pambegua, Kaduna State.

  • Time to focus on local pharmaceutical development

    Time to focus on local pharmaceutical development

    Sir: The convergence of pharmaceutical industrial development and healthcare improvement is unveiling a mutually beneficial synergy across various African nations, including Nigeria. This virtuous cycle is driven by shared goals between local health system stakeholders and industrialists. As healthcare providers strive to reduce supply shortages and advocate for increased public funding, local industrial players are eyeing expanded markets. This symbiotic relationship envisions a future where health system strengthening and pharmaceutical industrial development go hand in hand.

    A “local health” policy perspective forms the bedrock of this approach. By identifying local health priorities and leveraging existing industrial capacities, this perspective fosters synergies between health system investments and industrial endeavours.

    Geography, specifically the location of pharmaceutical expertise and manufacturing capacity, plays a crucial role in ensuring health security. African governments, along with inter-governmental organizations like the African Union Commission (AUC), the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD), and ECOWAS must actively seek ways to enhance their domestic skills and capabilities. Many policymakers view pharmaceutical manufacturing as a focal point for bolstering long-term health security.

    While a significant portion of pharmaceutical manufacturing in Sub-Saharan Africa primarily involves basic formulations using imported Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), there are encouraging signs of increasing technological advancements, accompanied by the necessary scientific and technical know-how. Scientists and manufacturers are actively searching for niche areas to initiate API manufacturing. Economies of scale are of paramount importance in API production compared to formulations, making it challenging for smaller-scale producers to compete. Consequently, potential market niches may include the production of low-dose APIs, especially for the African market.

    The motivation to develop national and regional capabilities in Sub-Saharan Africa is particularly pronounced in the context of pandemic medications and vaccines. There’s a prevailing assumption that in a global pandemic, high-income countries prioritize the treatment and protection of their own populations first. Vaccines and immunization programmes are vital components of saving lives and strengthening healthcare systems. However, nearly all vaccines used in Africa are imported.

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    A study by the Vaccine Manufacturing and Procurement in Africa (AVMI/UNIDO/WHO) revealed that 37 African countries procure all their vaccines through UNICEF, with Africa accounting for around 60% of UNICEF’s total vaccine procurement. Notable exceptions include Senegal’s Institut Pasteur Dakar, which produces a WHO-prequalified yellow fever vaccine, and South Africa’s Biovac, a local public-private partnership engaged in late-stage vaccine development and the production of vaccine vials using imported APIs.

    Developing vaccine manufacturing capabilities faces significant challenges due to intense global competition from major producers and extensive pooled purchasing by UNICEF with the support of development aid funding. The GAVI Alliance is the largest funder in this regard, often requiring UNICEF procurement for the vaccines it funds. Nevertheless, the AVMI study underscores health security as the primary reason for exploring the potential for shifting manufacturing capabilities to Africa, followed by addressing specific unmet needs and pandemic preparedness.

    Vaccine production is inherently risky, featuring high barriers to market entry and extended lead times for product development. Nevertheless, the same study suggests that over the next 10 to 20 years, there is potential for local vaccine production, given projected population growth. It recommends the establishment of regional hubs as the most viable strategy, albeit one that requires political and technical support—an area where AVMI actively advocates and provides technological assistance.

    Producing vaccines and biological products represents a significant challenge for local production, necessitating investments ranging from $60 to $100 million to establish a manufacturing facility. However, the benefits, including elevated skill levels and improved medium-term national health security, are substantial. Expanding vaccine manufacturing efforts would build upon existing capabilities in biological product manufacturing and extensive clinical trial experience in countries like South Africa. Initiatives would require technology transfer, potentially through joint ventures, and would also depend on government and philanthropic support.

    While public health’s focus has expanded to encompass social determinants, the role of industrial development in shaping health outcomes can no longer be overlooked. The interplay between pharmaceutical industrialization and healthcare is an essential element of creating robust African health systems. As African nations invest in industrialization, the global health community’s support is invaluable in extracting optimal benefits for public health.

    Nigeria, with its vibrant potential and rich resources, stands at a crossroads of health and industrial growth. By forging stronger linkages between these two agendas, the nation has an opportunity to rewrite its healthcare narrative. This partnership could not only propel Nigeria toward achieving SDG 3 and universal health care but also contribute to its economic development and global standing.

    •Victor Okeke,

    Centre for Social Justice, Abuja.

  • On N-Power C2 eight months backlog of stipends

    On N-Power C2 eight months backlog of stipends

    By Yusuf Saidu Tara

    SIR: Recall that the new Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Chimaobim Edu assumed office at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja a few days ago and raised hope for 136 million poor Nigerians.

    She recently announced that the government will be disbursing the long-awaited stipends to C2 beneficiaries of the N-Power program. This decision has brought a sense of relief and renewed hope to thousands of individuals who have been eagerly awaiting their delayed payments.

    The N-Power program, one of the federal government’s social intervention programs, was launched in 2016 with the aim of reducing unemployment and alleviating poverty among Nigerian youths. The program provides young graduates with the opportunity to gain skills and experience through various job placements and vocational training initiatives.

    However, in recent months, there has been a growing concern among the C2 beneficiaries, who have not received their stipends for the past eight months. This delay has caused significant financial hardship for many participants who rely on the stipend to support themselves and their families.

    Understanding the pressing need to address this issue, the minister, Betta Edu, has taken decisive action to ensure that these beneficiaries receive their payments as soon as possible. In a statement, Edu emphasized the government’s commitment to the welfare of Nigerian youths and acknowledged the adverse effects of the delay on their livelihoods.

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    The disbursement of the long overdue stipends is a testament to the government’s recognition of the importance of timely payments. The funds will go a long way in helping the beneficiaries meet their day-to-day needs, such as food, rent, utilities, and other essential expenses.

    By fulfilling its financial obligations, the government is not only demonstrating its commitment to the beneficiaries but also signalling its commitment to the success of the N-Power program as a whole.

    Moreover, this decision provides a glimmer of hope for those who have been disheartened by the delays and uncertainty surrounding their stipends. It renews their faith in the government’s promise to address their needs and concerns.

    While the disbursement of the stipends is undoubtedly a positive development, there remains a need for continuous improvement in the N-Power program. It is crucial for the government to streamline the payment process and ensure that beneficiaries will not face similar delays in the future. By doing so, the government can instil a sense of reliability and trust in the program, encouraging more youth to participate and benefit from its opportunities.

    Moving forward, it is crucial for the government to ensure that such delays are prevented in the future, and beneficiaries receive their stipends in a timely manner.

    • Yusuf Saidu Tara, tarasaidu@gmail.com

  • Council of Legal Education, increase UNN quota

    Council of Legal Education, increase UNN quota

    • By Ezenwaka Macdonald

    Sir: Since the Nigerian Law School and the Council of Legal Education were established in 1962, it has produced legal luminaries in Nigeria. And to ensure that the quality of lawyers produced is not compromised; universities are only allowed to admit the quota approved by the Council of Legal Education (CLE) and the National Universities Commission (NUC). And the quota is based on some critical areas such as physical facilities, equipment, staffing, funding, and most importantly, a library collection that must match effectively and efficiently with the courses being offered in the law faculty. This speaks volume for the top-notch standard the CLE has consistently maintained in its over 60 years’ existence.

     However, while the Council of Legal Education reserve the exclusive right to determine the quota for each university in the country based on their criteria, I passionately appeal that the quota for the Law Faculty of the University of Nigeria (UNN) be increased.

    I am prompted to make this passionate appeal because of the recent list of approved quota (for law students) released by the Council of Legal Education. For example, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) and Rivers State University (RSU) were allotted 250 places each; while the quota for the University of Lagos and Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) are 270 and 280, respectively.

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    So, if Rivers State University (RSU), a state university, could be given a quota of 250, University of Nigeria, Nsukka (Enugu Campus), should be allotted a greater quota! I earnestly desire that the quota for the University of Nigeria, a federal university, should be increased because of its status as the oldest university in Nigeria. Technically speaking, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) is the first fully indigenous and autonomous university in Nigeria, with the power to grant its own degrees; because as at then, the University of Ibadan was still a university college granting London degrees. When the University of Ibadan turned out the first graduates holding the University of Ibadan (rather than London) degrees, University of Nigeria had already produced two sets of graduates.

    The Law Faculty of the University of Nigeria, (UNN) is also the oldest in Nigeria, since it was the first law faculty to be established in the country in 1960.  This was an unprecedented feat attained in the history of legal education in Nigeria.

    I hereby appeal to the Minister of Education Prof. Tahir Mamman (SAN), being a former Director-General of the Nigerian Law School to step forward and help remedy the current imbalance. A university that has produced great legal icons, and known for its impeccable reputation deserves that its quota be increased.  It would be a dream come true if this quota is increased especially now that we have an additional campus, the Port-Harcourt Campus of the Nigerian Law School.

    I so then make this request with full assurance of the capacity of the Council of Legal Education to respond positively to it soonest!

    •Ezenwaka Macdonald,

    <ezenwakamacdonald@yahoo.com>