The Nation Newspaper

Category: Commentaries

  • The Sani Abacha in each of us

    The Sani Abacha in each of us

    • By Seye Aluko

    Sir: By annulling the June 12 1993 presidential election, Ibrahim Babangida, and Sani Abacha made Nigeria regress many steps backwards, and the governance of Nigeria became like rotten flesh, unable to fulfill its anticipated yearnings for development.

    It is alright for Babangida to now write a book of remembrance, chronicling his deeds and misdeeds, his actions and his inactions, his reactions and interactions, 32 years after the fateful annulment of the free and fair 1993 presidential election.

    It is alright today for Babangida to now shed “crocodile tears” and voice his “regrets,” and to finally and formally tender his “apologies,” to this nation for this annulment. But has Babangida’s apology not come“ too little, too late,” as it does not in any measure compensate for the damage done?

    Abacha is  a person whom numerous persons would wish to forget. Yes many lessons must be learnt from the example of Abacha, whose death sparked nationwide exaltation and rejoicing. One must learn from the lessons of history, that we must caution all people not to steamroll themselves into unmerited leadership.

    How many are the persons who celebrate the yearly anniversary of Abacha’s  death, or who publish in national newspapers messages of goodwill for him and his passage? Hardly any one does this except for his loyal wife, Maryam. Abacha has judged himself. His deeds are recorded like as with a mirror, or a camera. His deeds are nothing “to write home about.”He is someone the world would wish to forget. Does this not make everybody think?

    Numerous are the activists that Abacha clamped into jail. Such include the journalist Chris Anyanwu, and the activist lawyer Gani Fawehinmi, and Shehu Yar’Adua. Numerous were those who had to flee the country because of the oppression of Abacha’s iron fist. Such persons traumatised by Abacha and had to flee from this country include Professor Wole Soyinka, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu etc. Abacha’s victims include Mrs. Kudirat Abiola (who was brutally assassinated by his “hit squad”). Ken Saro Wiwa and six other Ogoni citizens who were hanged under suspicious circumstances, perhaps for their protests at the desecrations of their waterways by oil—spills. Labour leader Frank Kokori, was jailed for successfully organising a nationwide labour strike to protest the annulment of the ground breaking election. Additionally, ex-president Olusegun Obasanjo was not spared, and had to endure three tortuous years in jail for a charge he knew nothing about. 

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    For any person who can read between the lines (and tides) of history, will realise how Abacha was able to  steamroll  and bulldoze himself into power by studiously riding on Babangida’s back, in a vexatious and criminal baton exchange. Babangida and Abacha are merely the opposite sides of the same coin!

    Abacha was a presidential misfit because he entered into the exalted office of governance by subterfuge, guile and deceit. It was for these reasons that so many persons in Nigeria openly and brazenly rejoiced at his death, because he had nothing to offer the nation, apart from misery, sorrow, toil and tears. According to reports Abacha stole so much money from the coffers of this country and its treasury, that up till the present day Nigerian leaders are feverishly and frenetically striving to recover these stolen funds. And this stolen money was to the tune of millions of dollars!

    Finally about Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida; what can be said about him? A write up on Babangida would require an entire book! Let that be left to historians! So let us give him space. After all he has apologized! This writer will merely say “let him be,” until a later date, and a different time.

    •Seye Aluko,

    adeseye2@yahoo.com

  • Youths’ 30 Days Rant Challenge that leads nowhere

    Youths’ 30 Days Rant Challenge that leads nowhere

    • By Ogungbile Emmanuel Oludotun

    Sir: For days now, and for the next several, until it reaches 30, young Nigerians have flooded ‘Twitter’, TikTok, and Instagram with passionate rants about the failing economy, rising food prices, and the naira’s continuous decline. But after all the venting, what exactly will change? Sometimes, I wonder if this challenge has become mere content for some, a way to trend and chase clout rather than a genuine call for solutions. Are we satisfied with complaining, or do we truly want to fix the country?

    It’s pathetic that many of the same people ranting online are doing so simply because it’s naturally trending. Some of them know nothing about governance. The only thing they know about Nigeria is its name, yet they cannot name their local government chairman, councillor, senator, or House of Representatives member, the very individuals shaping policies that affect their lives. They don’t know how laws are passed, how government budgets are created, or what their constitutional rights are.

    Now let’s talk numbers. According to Dataphyte, in the 2023 elections, Nigeria had over 37 million registered voters under 35, making up nearly 40% of the total voter base. Yet, youth voter turnout was abysmally low despite their loud voices on the internet. According to INEC, apathy among young people reached disturbing levels, with many opting out of the electoral process entirely.

    When political party memberships opened, how many young Nigerians showed interest? Instead of joining the PDPs, APCs, and SDPs of this world and dominating them with numbers, we leave our future in the hands of the same politicians we complain about. When roundtable meetings are called, how many young people show interest in engaging in these spaces? Yet, it is the same old people deciding the country’s future. How many of these internet warriors have a copy of the constitution or even know what their basic rights look like? But they know all the algorithms and tricks for going viral on TikTok and Instagram.

    It’s ironic. The older generation, whom we blame for ruining Nigeria, at least understood power before they got into office. Yakubu Gowon became Head of State at 31. Murtala Muhammed led a coup at 37. Shehu hagari was a federal lawmaker in his 20s. Whether they led Nigeria to success or ruin, they grasped how governance worked. But today’s youth? They have outrage, not political strategy.

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    Hence my new reality is that Nigerian youth are simply too uninformed, too distracted, and too unserious about governance. They can analyse every detail of Big Brother Naija but cannot explain how a bill becomes law. They can name all the latest TikTok influencers but not their constituency representatives. So how do they expect to change a country they don’t even understand?

    The #30DaysRantChallenge reveals an uncomfortable truth: Young Nigerians want transformation but refuse to do the work. They want change but won’t join political parties. They want better leadership but won’t contest for office. They want accountability but won’t attend local government meetings or demand policy reforms.

    And let’s not even talk about youth organizations. Student associations, once fierce movements against military oppression, are now tools for political patronage. Today’s so-called “youth activists” are more interested in clout than in actual leadership.

    Before anyone says, “The system is rigged against us,” ask yourself: Did the politicians who dominate Nigeria today have it easy? No. They studied the system, exploited its weaknesses, and fought their way into power. But young Nigerians? They sit behind their phones, cry about bad governance, and expect someone else to fix Nigeria. It doesn’t work that way.

    We are at a crossroads. The older generation will not be here forever. Power will shift. The question is: Who will take it? The children of the same politicians who ruined Nigeria? If young Nigerians do not get serious, if they do not educate themselves, organize beyond social media, and actively participate in governance, they will wake up one day and realize their opportunity has passed.

    Maybe, after the #30DaysRantChallenge, we should start a 30 Days of Accountability and Action Challenge. One where young people visit their local government offices, engage with their state representatives, and demand accountability. If that happens, then we are getting somewhere. Because let’s be honest: Complaining is not a strategy. Social media protests might feel like activism, but hashtags are not policies, and viral rants are not governance.

    The sooner Nigerian youths understand this, the better.

    •Ogungbile Emmanuel Oludotun,

    <thedreamchaser65@gmail.com>

  • PDP and ‘homelessness’

    PDP and ‘homelessness’

    From the look of things, Nigeria’s former ruling party and leading opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), may well have itself to blame for its current situation, which can be described as “homelessness.”

    The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), under FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, revoked the party’s land title “in respect of Plot No 243 within Central Area (A00) District, Abuja,” where it is building a new national secretariat. The FCTA also revoked the land title in respect of Wadata Plaza, Zone 5, Abuja, where the party’s national headquarters is presently located.

    PDP National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba said the action was “highly condemnable,” adding that “It is aimed at stifling opposition in this country and a drive toward totalitarianism. It is a threat to democracy.”

    This was a stock response, and a baseless politicisation of the matter. The FCTA explained that it had revoked a total of 4,794 land titles, which were in default of ground rent payment for 10 years and above. It said: “This is in contravention of the terms and conditions of grant of the rights of Occupancy, in line with the provisions of Section 28, Subsections 5(a) and (b) of the Land Use Act.”

    Those affected include government institutions, private organisations and individuals. Importantly, PDP cannot claim to be a target and play victim because, according to FCTA, it had failed to pay its annual ground rents for 20 years, from 2006 to 2025, despite numerous reminders.

    The revocation letter, dated March 13, stated that the property had reverted to the FCTA due to the PDP’s failure to comply with the terms of the Right of Occupancy agreement, adding that the FCT would take immediate possession of the property. This is concerning the party’s land in the Central Area, Abuja, where its new national secretariat is under construction.

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    Regarding the present location of its national headquarters, Wadata Plaza, Zone 5, Wuse, Abuja, which is also affected by the action, FCTA explained that the party was a tenant or occupier, and the revocation notice had been served on the title holder, one Samaila Maman Ofi, “at his Kaduna address – the address on record.” It said: “On that property, 28 years of ground rent is being owed, from 1998 to 2025.”  The debt is more than N7million.

    So, PDP not only lost the title to its own property in the Central Area, its landlord also lost the title to the party’s rented property in Wuse.  This means it is “homeless.”

    As things stand, it is difficult to understand the PDP’s finger-pointing. The FCTA said it “made numerous publications in national newspapers and announcements on broadcast media since 2023, calling on defaulters to pay up all outstanding bills and ground rents.”  The affected defaulters could have avoided the revocation of their titles if they had done the right thing.

  • Killer-herdsmen: A rampage from the past

    Killer-herdsmen: A rampage from the past

    Sir: In the last few years, Benue State has had a torrid time at the hands of killers of all shades and stripes. Whether it is for their land or to settle ancient animosities, blood has flowed freely in Benue in the last few years at the hands of killers.

     A few days ago, protests rocked Akure, the Ondo state capital. The protesters had a common complaint: herdsmen were overrunning their farms, with deadly consequences. Similar occurrences in Bayelsa and Enugu prompt the question whether or not Nigeria is witnessing a rampage from the past.  It appears that the honeymoon is over, and the knives have finally flown out. Close to two years since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office, the bodies are gradually piling up after a period of rest during which it appeared that the attacks had fizzled out.

    Insecurity remains a major problem in Nigeria, a country which remains criminally insecure despite enormous resources to protect itself. Insecurity swiftly takes a devilish turn in rural areas where entire communities and families who depend on farming to earn a living must daily confront the many criminals who contest their land with them, often with deadly consequences.

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    While the killings mount in rural areas, what is the government doing? For successive governments, securing Nigeria has become almost an impossible task. There is always the elaborate talk about strategy and personnel, but that rural communities around the country remain criminally vulnerable to attacks is a pointer to the fact that tackling insecurity in the country hardly goes beyond long discourses.

    Since everything done to tackle insecurity in the country has failed, it is time Nigeria altered her approach. It is time the country reviewed its security strategy. It is not enough that Abuja, the country’s capital, remains largely intact. If terrorists, many of them sponsored no doubt by influential Nigerians, continue to rip the country apart, then it cannot be that anywhere is safe.

    Insecurity in Nigeria should be tackled headlong. It is not a problem that limits itself, or one that is endemic to any part of the country. As long as any part of the country is insecure, the entire country is unsafe.

    •Ike Willie-Nwobu,Ikewilly9@gmail.com

  • That Rivers may heal

    That Rivers may heal

    Sir: The ongoing political quagmire in Rivers State has elicited a wide range of reactions from various quarters. Loyalists, aggrieved individuals with personal grievances, opportunists masking self-interest as intervention, as well as both friends and foes, have all weighed in. Some arguments are rational, some biased, and others outright absurd. Yet, everyone is entitled to their opinion.

    A significant point of contention has been President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency and suspension of the governor, his deputy and the House of Assembly members. Some argue that he overstepped, while others contend that the legal basis for such a move remains ambiguous.

    The reality is that Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, which governs the declaration of a state of emergency, remains unclear and requires further judicial interpretation. This debate is further complicated by historical precedents, such as the 2004 suspension of Plateau State Governor Joshua Dariye by then president, Olusegun Obasanjo.

    When Governor Dariye challenged his suspension in the Supreme Court, the case was struck out on technical grounds rather than on the constitutionality of his removal. Justice Idris Kutigi and other justices ruled that the plaintiffs lacked the standing to sue, effectively leaving the legal question unresolved. This highlights the need for further judicial interpretation of the president’s power to suspend a governor under a state of emergency.

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    Amidst the cacophony of opinions, Professor Okey Ikechukwu’s analysis stands out for its balance and depth. He rightly pointed out the potential for opportunistic criminality in such crises, particularly following the pipeline explosions. He also highlighted the extreme positions taken by the parties involved, with neither side willing to compromise. Professor Ikechukwu referenced the concept of inherent presidential powers, as outlined in a publication by the U.S. Congress, to justify certain executive actions in times of crisis. His perspective aligns with the view that the President Tinubu was not going to remain passive and not do what was necessary to prevent further escalation of the crisis, which was clearly spiralling out of control.

    That said, no one emerges from this crisis looking good. From a governor who, after failing to install his preferred speaker, resorted to demolishing the legislative complex and relocating proceedings to Government House, to his unilateral decision to conduct local government elections in defiance of court orders. He further presented an N800 billion budget to just four legislators (technically three, as one was appointed Chief of Staff), without a properly constituted House, yet proceeded to implement it. On the other hand, his predecessor and political mentor, along with loyalists, have continually fuelled the standoff. Then came the reckless statement: “At the appropriate time, I will give the signal.” Not long after, pipelines started getting blown up.

    It’s a complete mess. Governor Siminalayi Fubara, the House of Assembly members, and Wike – all should be ashamed. At no point did any of them consider the welfare of the people of Rivers State.

    Now that the legislature has aligned with the executive on the declaration of a state of emergency and the appointment of a sole administrator, it is time to allow Rivers State to heal. The situation calls for less emotion and selective outrage.

    I hope all parties involved have learned their lessons and are engaged in serious introspection. This crisis has been brewing since 2023 – two years wasted when reconciliation could have been achieved. But egos prevailed, and here we are.

    My appeal to stakeholders and even non-stakeholders: Let Rivers State heal.

    •Chiechefulam Ikebuiro, Chiechefulamikebuiro@gmail.com

  • Will Kano’s throne with stand the test of time and wisdom?

    Will Kano’s throne with stand the test of time and wisdom?

    Sir: The grandeur of Kano’s emirate is not merely an inheritance of a throne but the custodianship of a deep-rooted history, culture, and tradition that represents the very soul of African heritage. From the era of Bagauda to the reign of Ado Bayero, the emirate has stood as a symbol of resilience, dignity, and continuity. Today, as the emirship tussle continues, it presents a defining moment not just for those directly involved but for the entire Kano people, whose unity and stability rest upon the wisdom of their leaders. It is a moment that demands measured actions, guided by history and the sacrifices of great monarchs who prioritized the collective good over personal ambitions.

    The Kano Emirate is no stranger to succession disputes, yet history has shown that wise leaders have navigated such crises with patience, foresight, and a commitment to preserving the integrity of the institution. From the reign of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi I to that of Ado Bayero, the emirate has undergone significant transitions, some peaceful, others contentious, but ultimately resolved with a sense of responsibility toward the larger interest of Kano.

    Today, we see echoes of the past in the contest between Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II and Emir Aminu Ado Bayero. While the legal and political dimensions of the crisis continue to unfold, the moral weight on those involved is immense. The key question remains: Will the dignity, harmony, and prestige of Kano take precedence over personal interests, or will history remember this episode as a moment of avoidable discord?

    History is replete with examples of monarchs who faced displacement yet responded with wisdom, ensuring that their thrones remained symbols of honour rather than sources of division. In 1936, King Edward VIII of Britain abdicated the throne out of personal conviction, avoiding a constitutional crisis. More recently, King Juan Carlos of Spain voluntarily stepped aside to preserve national unity and dignity. Within Africa, deposed monarchs have often demonstrated restraint, placing the peace of their people above personal grievances.

    A particularly relevant example is Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, who, despite the political undertones of his removal in 2020, did not mobilize his supporters to challenge the decision. Instead, he accepted his fate with remarkable composure, trusting destiny and the historical cycle that governs leadership.

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    Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf bears an enormous responsibility in ensuring that his administration’s actions do not fuel unnecessary tensions in Kano. While he holds constitutional authority over traditional institutions, wisdom dictates that such decisions be made with a far-reaching vision—one that safeguards Kano’s unity, stability, and the sanctity of its traditions. Political decisions should not be allowed to erode the revered position of the emirate.

    To Emir Aminu Ado Bayero, this moment calls for deep introspection on the true essence of leadership. His revered father, Emir Ado Bayero, was an emblem of peace, patience, and sagacity. The respect he commanded was not merely because he sat on the throne, but because of his ability to navigate crises with wisdom. Now, his son faces a historic test: will he allow personal ambition to override Kano’s peace, or will he embrace the noble path of sacrifice? The decisions he makes today will shape how history remembers him.

    To Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, his reinstatement is not just a return to power but an opportunity to lead with renewed wisdom and vision. The expectations upon him are immense—not for vengeance or retribution, but for reconciliation and statesmanship. The people of Kano look up to him to use his vast experience, intellect, and leadership to heal divisions, restore trust, and solidify the emirate as a pillar of stability.

    Kano is more than a city; it is a symbol of Africa’s resilience, culture, and civilization. The emirate represents centuries of tradition that must not be tainted by personal conflicts. The world is watching, and history is recording. The real question is not who sits on the throne today, but how that throne is preserved for generations to come.

    •Usman Abdullahi Koli,mernoukoli@gmail.com.

  • Rivers emergency declaration: Tinubu upheld Constituion

    Rivers emergency declaration: Tinubu upheld Constituion

    •President acted in over riding national interest

    By Sunday Dare

    In times of harsh circumstance and imminent danger, a responsible and dedicated leader is forced into action to avert needless harm and destruction.This is true of the President of a nation or  a General in the midst of battle.

    We all know this as the true law of our political existence. Anyone who feigns ignorance of this fact does so not out of truth but in an attempt to foment further crisis. In times of urgent emergency, extraordinary measures can and  must be taken. If not, trouble turns into calamity. Normal becomes abnormality. That which is bad becomes even worse and less amenable to solution.

    In the case of Rivers state, turmoil and crisis had taken over. The rival stakeholders could not see their way toward resolution. Something had to be done before all became undone.

    In this case, President Tinubu stepped up as was his moral and legal obligation to do. In this case, the Constitution, the blueprint of our democracy spells out the options before the President in dire and emergency circumstances.  

    The declaration of a state of emergency on Rivers state for 6-months is well within the stated powers of the President. This is settled by the very wording of the constitution itself and backed by judicial precedents.

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    Since the declaration was made Nigerians have heard legal and political opinions and analyses of different shades. This discourse is healthy for our democracy but cannot substitute for the rule of law and the proper interpretation of our constitution. The frenzy by opponents of the President has hit a high pitch.  They have placed themselves in opposition to what the law says about the powers and authority of the President because they have previously placed themselves in political opposition to the President.

    The powers conferred on the President in this instance and the will to use it when the situation warrants are the difference between an indecisive leader and a courageous, committed one.

     The Supreme Court understands this and is very careful in instances such as this. According to Prof Kanyinsola Ajayi , we must recall what happened in 1962 in the case of FRA Williams and Majekodunmi on the removal of the Premier  of the Western Region.  

    Instructively, the Supreme Court said when it comes to matters of emergency the Courts are very cautious and reluctant to query what the President has done. They observed these are matters that are within the exclusive preserve of the President. This is because issues of public safely, pubic  order, national security and the aversion of calamity are not necessarily objective questions that the court can determine. 

    The Securitization theory posits that leaders must act when they perceive, recognize any  existential threat and during severe threat. 

    Securitization theory, developed by the Copenhagen School, posits that security is a social construct, not an objective reality.  

    The securitisation theory further posits that political issues are constituted as extreme security issues to be dealt with urgently when they have been labelled as ‘dangerous’, ‘menacing’, ‘threatening’, ‘alarming’ and so on by a ‘securitising actor’ who has the social and institutional power to move the issue ‘beyond politics’.

    The deteriorating situation in Rivers a state had become an existential threat to both democracy and national interest. Simplicita. The operative word here is Suspension not removal.  There is a 6- month window for the return to normalcy. It is in the  light below that we must understand that the most appropriate, timely and constitutional option available to Mr. President was the declaration of a state of emergency. Tanimu Y. et al captures it perfectly and I concur : 

    “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s intervention in Rivers State must be understood—not as a political manoeuvre, but as a constitutional necessity to prevent the descent into anarchy. His actions, in invoking Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution, affirm the fundamental role of the presidency: not as a bystander to disorder but as the ultimate custodian of constitutional integrity and national “ 

    •Dare is the Special Adviser to Mr. President on Media and Public Communications

  • Driving $1trillion economy through creative assets, tourism

    Driving $1trillion economy through creative assets, tourism

    By Chindaya Ahmadu

    Nigeria’s creative economy and tourism sector offer veritable economic opportunities to creatives and upbeat investors.

    This is due to the policy initiatives and bold reforms of the Honorable Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of building a $1 trillion economy.

    The ministry under her leadership has already forged strategic partnerships that will drive growth, enhance cultural diplomacy, and boost GDP contribution from the Ministry to the nation’s economy.

    A landmark achievement recorded by the Ministry recently through a core strategic partnership between the Ministry and the African Export-Import Bank (Afrexim Bank) has led to the $200 million financing facility with the Afrexim Bank which is scheduled to come into full operations by the mid-2025 and is set to provide essential funding for businesses and entrepreneurs in the creative sector.

    This move ensures that Nigeria’s creatives—ranging from filmmakers to digital innovators—have the capital needed to scale their ventures, create jobs, and expand their global reach.

    One of the most impactful initiatives is the Creative Leap Acceleration Programme (CLAP), developed in partnership with Lebara Nigeria.

    This initiative provides creatives with equitable loans, digital financing, and affordable internet access, ensuring their seamless participation in the digital economy.

    Additionally, inbound tourists will benefit from streamlined financial services and eSIM activation, enhancing their experience in Nigeria.

    To strengthen Nigeria’s creative workforce, FMACTCE has partnered with Alison, a global e-learning provider, integrating its Learning Management System (LMS) into CLAP.

    This offers creatives access to courses in digital media, gaming, music production, and cinematography, positioning Nigeria as a globally competitive creative hub.

    Recognising the need for financial security, the ministry has also joined forces with Prembly to implement advanced Know Your Customer (KYC) verification, Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance, and fraud prevention measures, ensuring financial integrity within the creative sector.

    A boost to digital storytelling comes through the Content Creators Challenge, a partnership between FMACTCE and TelAirVision.

    This initiative provides funding, mentorship, and distribution support for digital creatives transitioning from short-form to full-length productions.

    By expanding opportunities in the content economy, the programme fosters innovation and employment while promoting Nigerian talent on a global stage.

    Attracting investment into the creative industry is another key focus. FMACTCE has collaborated with the Presidential Tax Committee to introduce tax incentives and credits, making Nigeria’s creative sector more appealing to foreign investors.

    On a grassroots level, the ministry is partnering with state governments to establish Renewed Hope Cultural Villages across Nigeria, including the Federal Capital Territory.

    These cultural villages will preserve historic sites, promote local festivals, and create employment opportunities, reinforcing economic diversification and tourism development.

    Infrastructure investment is also receiving attention through an MoU with Cavista Holdings, which focuses on developing tourism infrastructure, digitizing tourism experiences, and investing in human capital.

    By strengthening public-private partnerships, this initiative positions Nigeria as a global tourism destination and stimulates job creation in the sector.

    Beyond local initiatives, FMACTCE is strengthening international collaborations to elevate Nigeria’s creative and cultural economy through another grand partnership with the British Council, with this milestone partnership agreement focusing on skills development, cultural exchanges, and strengthening the creative sector in Nigeria.

    Recognising the importance of global benchmarking, the Ministry has engaged the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) to analyse best practices from South Korea, Saudi Arabia, India, Japan, and China. These insights will help Nigeria tailor policies that drive the creative economy’s growth and maximize its GDP contribution.

    A strategic agreement with Brazil includes the renovation of Casa da Nigeria in Salvador, fostering co-productions in film and music and promoting cultural exchange.

    Similarly, a partnership with the French Republic grants Nigerian creatives access to French markets and specialized training in fashion, gaming, and cinema.

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    To further enhance tourism experiences, FMACTCE’s collaboration with Wakanow will introduce cultural desks at international airports.

    These will feature live performances, curated exhibitions, and digital travel solutions, enriching visitors’ first impression of Nigeria.

    Recognising the need for skills development, FMACTCE has partnered with Lens For Good to implement capacity-building programs that equip young entrepreneurs with the expertise required to thrive in the creative and tourism industries.

    One of the most ambitious undertakings is the Nigeria Destinations 2030 Initiative, designed to create 2 million jobs in Nigeria’s creative economy by 2030.

    Financial sustainability is further reinforced through a partnership with the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), which aims to securitise both tangible and intangible assets in Nigeria’s creative and cultural economy.

    By unlocking new revenue streams and attracting private-sector investments, this initiative ensures long-term economic growth in the creative sector.

    Highlighting its commitment to global recognition and innovation, FMACTCE has formalised a landmark partnership with Africana Bespoke Tailoring Nigeria Limited. Signed by Minister Hannatu Musa Musawa and Africana’s Managing Director Charles Oronsaye, this collaboration establishes a strategic framework to drive Nigeria’s creative and tourism industries to international prominence.

    Through these strategic partnerships, Minister Musawa is taking decisive steps to place Nigeria on the global map, ensuring that the creative and tourism sectors are not just contributors to the economy but key drivers of national prosperity.

    The ministry’s initiatives will not only create jobs and attract investment but also position Nigeria as a cultural powerhouse in the global economy.

    •Ahmadu is the Director of Press in the Ministry of Tourism

  • $17b FDI: Unravelling progress under Kyari, Tinubu

    $17b FDI: Unravelling progress under Kyari, Tinubu

    By Hakeem Adewole

    Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy and the most populous nation on the continent, has long been dependent on its oil and gas resources as a major driver of economic growth. However, the country has faced persistent challenges in energy security, production efficiency, and investment in the petroleum sector. Since the appointment of Mele Kyari as the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) and the bold economic reforms initiated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria has witnessed significant progress in the oil and gas sector.

    The administration’s efforts to improve regulatory frameworks, attract foreign direct investment (FDI), and expand domestic refining capacity are reshaping the energy landscape.  The expected outcomes have started manifesting in multiple folds. The remarkable strides made under Kyari’s leadership and Tinubu’s reforms and their impact on Nigeria’s energy security and economic transformation are indeed monumental.

    The historic milestone of $17billion foreign direct investment could not have been possible without the certain strategic moves by the leadership of the nation’s oil corporation. Energy security that ensures steady supply of petroleum and other allied products is pivotal, among other measures in achieving the feat. The ability to provide reliable and affordable energy to power homes, industries, and transport systems—has been a focal point of Kyari’s leadership at NNPC Ltd. The challenges of crude oil theft, infrastructure decay, and investment constraints have historically hindered the full potential of Nigeria’s petroleum sector. However, Kyari has introduced strategic initiatives aimed at boosting oil and gas production, securing energy supply, and improving efficiency within NNPC Ltd.

    One of the most significant threats to Nigeria’s energy security has been crude oil theft, which has cost the country billions of dollars in lost revenue. Under Kyari’s leadership, NNPC Ltd has implemented a multi-layered security approach, working with private security firms, the Nigerian military, and community stakeholders to protect critical oil infrastructure. The introduction of surveillance technologies, including drones and real-time monitoring systems, has significantly curbed crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism.

    To maintain Nigeria’s position as a top oil-producing nation, Kyari has also overseen aggressive efforts to boost crude oil production. Despite global energy market uncertainties, Nigeria has managed to stabilize production levels and attract new investments in oil exploration. The country now boasts over 37 billion barrels of crude oil reserves and aims to increase its daily production beyond the 1.6 million barrels per day threshold.

    Recognizing the importance of gas as a transition fuel, NNPC Ltd, under the dynamic leadership, has prioritized the expansion of gas infrastructure. Nigeria’s proven gas reserves of about 207 trillion cubic feet (TCF) present an opportunity for economic diversification, which has been greatly harnessed. The ongoing construction of critical gas pipeline projects, including the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) pipeline, aims to improve gas supply for domestic consumption and industrialization. Kyari’s strategic focus on gas monetization aligns with the federal government’s plan to make Nigeria a key player in the global gas market.

    The visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has again come under the spotlight. Since assuming office in May 2023, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has embarked on bold economic reforms designed to attract investment, stabilize the economy, and promote sustainable growth. His administration has focused on deregulation, fiscal responsibility, and investment-friendly policies to enhance Nigeria’s economic competitiveness. Though painful initially, the gains have started pouring in, to the admiration of many Nigerians. One of the remarkable gains is the massive FDI, and other positive economic outlooks.

    The Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), signed into law in 2021, laid the foundation for a reformed and transparent oil and gas sector. However, under Tinubu’s administration, the full-scale implementation of the PIA has accelerated, creating a more business-friendly environment for investors. The Act has transformed NNPC Ltd into a commercially driven entity, allowing it to operate with greater efficiency and accountability. This has boosted investor confidence and resulted in $17 billion in FDI inflows in 2024.

    One of the most controversial but necessary reforms implemented by President Tinubu was the removal of fuel subsidies. For decades, Nigeria spent billions of dollars annually on subsidies, straining government finances and encouraging inefficiencies in the energy market. By eliminating subsidies, the administration has redirected funds towards infrastructure, healthcare, and education. While the initial impact of higher fuel prices has been challenging, the long-term benefits include improved fiscal sustainability and the encouragement of private sector investment in the downstream sector.

    Tinubu’s administration has aggressively pursued foreign investors, particularly in the oil and gas sector. The government has engaged global energy players, offering incentives such as cost recovery, royalty adjustments, and profit-sharing mechanisms. As a result, Nigeria has become an attractive destination for energy investments, with China and India showing particular interest in upstream and refining projects.

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    To reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported refined petroleum products, the Tinubu administration has fast-tracked initiatives to increase domestic refining capacity. The much-anticipated Dangote Refinery, with a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, is expected to significantly reduce fuel importation and stabilize fuel prices. Additionally, government efforts to revamp existing refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna have gained momentum, with rehabilitation projects progressing steadily.

    Another critical aspect of Tinubu’s economic reforms has been stabilizing the naira through a series of monetary policy adjustments and trade liberalization measures.

    The administration’s fiscal policies aim to reduce inflation, improve foreign exchange liquidity, and support economic diversification beyond oil and gas. These measures are expected to create a more resilient and competitive Nigerian economy.

    No doubt, the combined efforts of Mele Kyari’s leadership at NNPC Ltd and President Tinubu’s economic reforms are setting Nigeria on a path toward sustainable energy security and economic transformation. The continued focus on infrastructure development, investment attraction, and regulatory stability will determine the long-term success of these reforms.

    Under Mele Kyari’s leadership at NNPC Ltd and the economic reforms spearheaded by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria is experiencing a transformation in its energy and economic landscape. The country is moving towards enhanced energy security, improved investment climates, and a more sustainable economic future. While challenges remain, the foundation laid by these reforms promises long-term gains for Nigeria’s energy sector and overall economic prosperity. With continued policy consistency and infrastructural development, Nigeria is poised to become a leading force in Africa’s energy and economic space in the years ahead.

    Hakeem Adewole, a public affairs analyst writes from Lagos

  • Imagine Rivers State without a State of Emergency

    Imagine Rivers State without a State of Emergency

    By Bayo Onanuga

    Imagine a Rivers State where President Bola Ahmed Tinubu hesitated to declare a state of emergency. The political standoff between the State Assembly and Governor Siminalayi Fubara could have continued and degenerated into violence. 

    Impeachment threats might have spurred attacks on lawmakers by the governor’s supporters, while militants in the creeks—primed to sabotage critical oil infrastructure—could have plunged Nigeria’s oil production back to pre-2023 lows. Sensational reporting of the crisis by journalists and opportunistic litigation would have inflamed tensions further, paralysing governance and risking lives. 

    Schools and hospitals would shutter; investors would flee. We can only imagine the human and economic toll. 

    Today, thanks to the president’s intervention, Rivers State can breathe again. Political tensions have eased, banal headlines have quietened, and stakeholders—encouraged by the newly-appointed administrator—are charting a path to lasting peace. Critics who argue the crisis “did not yet warrant” emergency rule ignore a stark truth: waiting for the breakdown of law and order to escalate into anarchy before acting is like withholding firefighters until a house burns to ashes. 

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    A responsible leader like President Tinubu, who swore an oath to protect the constitution and corporate existence of the country, can not fail to act when a constituent part of the Federation is careering towards the precipice. The political crisis in Rivers State between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and members of the State House of Assembly who owe allegiance to the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, that blew open barely six months into the administration of the Governor has degenerated by 18 March. 

    A chain of events since the war of attrition started 14 months ago among the combatants had indeed paralysed the government of Rivers State to the point where Fubara, copying from the bad book of former Governor Obaseki in Edo, emasculated an arm of government entirely. This reality informed the Supreme Court’s damning verdict about the absence of government in the State as enshrined in the 1999 constitution of Nigeria, as amended. The court also excoriated Fubara for acting like a despot.

    Rivers was in a grave situation, as the combatants refused to allow reason to prevail, even after the Supreme Court judgment, before President Tinubu declared a state of emergency on 18 March. The President took action in the best interest of the people of the State, who had become victims of the warring politicians, the people they elected to serve them. President Tinubu needed to act. He chose prevention over cure.

    Section 305 of Nigeria’s Constitution empowers the President to act when the nation faces a breakdown of law, order, and economic security —precisely the case in Rivers, a bastion of Nigeria’s oil-dependent economy. Intelligence confirmed militants, told by Fubara to await signals, were already targeting pipelines, risking a collapse in output and a Niger-Delta domino effect. Historical precedents, such as the past emergencies in Plateau and Borno and the doctrine of necessity, support the President’s proactive measures to avert disaster. 

    The President’s oath demands he must not fail in his sacred duty to safeguard national stability, not watch idly as partisan strife strangles our democracy and the material well-being of Nigerians, whose prosperity depends on the social and economic interdependence of every part of the country. Rivers State is a significant hydrocarbon economic artery in Nigeria, and any dislocation and politically motivated disruption of the oil industry in the state will have ripple effects on the national economy.

    Answering the Critics: 

    Critics claim the emergency rule in Rivers undermines democracy. Their position misrepresents reality. The intervention is temporary, surgical, and aimed at restoring—not replacing—democratic institutions. The suspension of political actors for six months is no power grab; it is not a permanent removal but a reset to disarm warring factions. Notably, the same critics who assailed the President’s action for suspending the political actors remain silent on Governor Fubara’s refusal to collaborate with the legislature, exposing their partisan bias. Democracy can not thrive amid lawlessness—anarchy is its antithesis.

    The appointed administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok Ibas (Rtd.), has already convened a meeting with traditional leaders in the State as one of his first steps to forge lasting solutions. This intervention ensures Rivers’ people retain their democratic rights while shielding the Nigerian and Rivers State economies from collapse. It is worth repeating that President Tinubu acted within the law and his executive powers under the constitution until the  Supreme Court says otherwise. 

    President Tinubu and the National Assembly remain committed to lifting the emergency once stability returns and also ensuring elected officials resume their duties.

    The 18th-century English philosopher Edmund Burke once warned, “The only thing necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing.” President Tinubu chose courage over complacency. His action prioritised Nigeria’s interest over political expediency, averting a more profound crisis. To those who brand him a democrat turned “tyrant,” my response to them is simple:  Which democracy prospers in chaos? Rivers’ newfound calm vindicates President Tinubu’s resolve. He deserves commendation, not condemnation, not calumny for his statesmanship. Rivers and Nigeria are safer for it.

    – Onanuga is the Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Information and Strategy