The Nation Newspaper

Category: Commentaries

Trump’s second term and Nigeria

Sir: Donald Trump’s ascension as the 47th President of the United States has sparked intense interest globally, with Nigeria being no exception. As President Trump assumes office, Nigerians are eager to understand the potential implications of his presidency on their nation.

Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has already extended congratulations to Trump, expressing his trust that the US president will bring the world closer to peace and prosperity. This sentiment is shared by the government, which has acknowledged the significant influence of the US on global affairs.

Historically, US-Nigeria relations have fluctuated depending on the ruling party in the US. During Republican administrations, relations have been characterized by targeted engagement and interests, with a focus on trade and investment. In contrast, Democratic administrations have prioritized democracy, human rights, and development aid.

Under Trump’s first presidency, Nigeria benefited from increased military and counter-terrorism support, which could continue under his new administration. On the economic front, Trump’s transactional approach to foreign policy may lead to increased trade and investment between the US and Nigeria, particularly in sectors like oil and gas. Nevertheless, his administration’s stance on climate change and global health may have far-reaching consequences for Nigeria’s development.

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In the realm of global politics, Trump’s presidency may lead to a shift in the dynamics of international relations, with potential implications for Nigeria’s position within the global community. As the world navigates this new landscape, Nigerians will be watching closely to see how Trump’s administration will engage with their nation.

Ultimately, the impact of Trump’s presidency on Nigeria will depend on various factors, including his administration’s policies, the response of the Nigerian government, and the evolving global context. As the situation unfolds, one thing is certain – the relationship between Nigeria and the US under Trump’s leadership will be closely scrutinized.

•Folawiyo Kareem Olajoku, Ph.D.Abuja.

January 20, 2025
Tankers of death

Sir: Another day, another fuel tanker explosion in Nigeria. The opening month of the year is only just hurtling to a close, but already Nigeria is harvesting death in numbers. Niger State is in the news, yet again. A nightmare state. On Friday, January 17, a tanker exploded in Suleja, killing more than 80 persons including a pregnant woman and leaving dozens injured. The incident has expectedly thrown the country into mourning. It was never the news anyone bargained for to start the year and if this is a sign of things to come, it means Nigeria is signing on for a very long year indeed.

This accident which has thrown families into mourning in the morning of a new year is far from isolated. In fact, if anything, it is history rekindling its flames and burning all in its way with ferocious fury.

Niger State recorded a boat mishap in 2024 that drowned more than 50 passengers. Shortly after that, the country was shaken by the fuel tanker explosion which killed well over 100 persons in Majiya, Jigawa State. To demonstrate that even tragedy fails to dish enough deterrent to those being scouted by death, a few days after the tragedy in Majiya, some Nigerians descended on a fallen fuel tanker in Akamkpa Cross Rivers State, regurgitating the excuses and repeating the exercises that had yielded such fatalities only a few days prior.

In the face of these devastating accidents, who is failing to learn lessons? Nigeria or Nigerians?

One only needs to look at the environmental genocide in the Niger-Delta to conclude that the discovery of oil has not exactly been the blessing prophesied when the sleepy soil of Oloibiri, Bayelsa State, yielded the first squirt of the black gold in 1956. The slow erosion of Nigerian institutions and entrenchment of corruption and complacency vociferously argues against the canonization of oil as Nigeria’s saving grace.

The frequency of these accidents simply shows that Nigeria is not a serious country. Of course, it is entirely in the character of a country with a chillingly low quality of life and even lower life expectancy to be careless with the lives of those living in it.

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When these heavy-duty fuel tankers filled with fuel hit the road, what safety measures are taken? What safety protocols are observed to ensure that they are kept safe for themselves and others? The frequency with which they occur and the dizzying speed with which Nigeria moves on from them to await the next accident shows that not enough is being done.

On their part, Nigerians are not doing enough to stay safe and alive in a country where death is never far away. Survival is a instinct as primal as it is wild. But of what use are the risks taken to survive if death mops everything up in the blink of an eye.

Those Nigerians who wield poverty like a shield rather than a sword justify the needless, reckless risks they take. The result of such senseless carelessness is a death by the number.

Nigeria should be thoroughly tired of these tragedies by now. It should be seen to be doing all it can to stop these needless deaths. Africa’s largest democracy and economy deserves to be posting progress and not post-mortem reports of avoidable deaths so early in the year and every month of the year.

•Ike Willie-Nwobu,Ikewilly9@gmail.com

January 20, 2025
What to do before removing road bumps

Sir: The Honourable Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, recently gave an order for the removal of speed-breakers or road bumps on the highways.

Research has revealed that most of the bumps were put in those places because of the excessive speed of drivers which has led to the loss of many lives. Ironically, the speed bumps have also caused damages to vehicles and loss of lives due to the ignorance of the drivers to the presence of those bumps.

There must be traffic signs to indicate the presence of speed bumps so that drivers can safely slow down before getting to them. The speed bumps on Obajana – Kabba road has no single traffic sign to alert drivers of the bumps ahead. The only sign is the concrete block placed on the side of each bump, not a warning sign before the bump. The concrete blocks on the bumps are not painted nor marked to make them visible from afar before getting there.

The bumps were not marked with paint for easy identification from afar. The absence of these signs and markings have led to many accidents, loss of lives and valuable properties on the Obajana – Kabba road and nothing has been done to correct these lapses. Towards the Kabba end of the road, the bump at the slope near a police checkpoint was wrongly positioned. Bumps must not be located on a slope. This has caused many accidents and loss of lives. On one incident at this very point, the driver lost control of the bus, somersaulted and caught fire with no passenger saved. Yet, the bump has not been removed from there till now. This is the situation in many parts of Nigeria as at today.

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Bumps started springing up because of the failure of the government to ensure the relevant traffic signs and road markings, particularly speed limit signs are installed at appropriate locations, quality driver education in Driving Schools, arrest and prosecution of violators of the speed limits. It is also a big surprise that the government agencies at the federal and state levels do not understand the relevance of derestriction signs. Every speed limit sign must be followed by a Derestriction Sign. This has never been done anywhere in Nigeria. The relevant government agencies must always monitor the roads and road infrastructure to know and correct the lapses before they start causing loss of lives and properties.

The bumps near schools, markets, bus stops, hospitals, busy shopping malls should not be removed even after installing the relevant traffic signs and road markings in such areas. The relevant government MDAs should also specify through Executive Order or memo, what distance must be between one speed bump and the other. It must also be specified, the type of bumps that can be installed on the roads. The way some bumps were constructed has caused a lot of damage to vehicles and vehicle occupants.

With the evolution of technology, there is a need to complement the traffic signs and road markings with functional CCTV cameras to ease arrest and prosecution of violators of the traffic signs and road markings.

The order given by the minister on bumps’ removal is good and necessary because of the excesses of the people installing the speed bumps; but the points listed above should be taken into consideration so as to avoid causing more problems than those the minister wants solved.

•Jide Owatunmise, Lagos.

January 20, 2025
Tax Reform Bill: Zacch Adedeji, the man of steel

By Arabinrin Aderonke

There is a popular song I love that says, “He has done it finally, finally, finally…” Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, and his team are experiencing the song’s power.

On January 16, 2025, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) issued a communique backing the Tax Reform Bills, which is nothing short of huge.

This, however, did not occur overnight. It results from months of strategic conversations, debates, and commitment to changing Nigeria’s fiscal policies into a tool for national development.

The communiqué issued at the end of the meeting was more than simply a document; it was a declaration of intent, a clear vision for a modern, equitable tax system that aligns with Nigeria’s current reality.

The governors and the reform committee acknowledged that Nigeria’s existing tax rules could no longer meet the country’s needs.

We have all witnessed the difficulties of a system that does not properly capture the nation’s riches or ensure that resources are distributed equitably. However, this tax reform bill has given Nigerians a renewed feeling of hope.

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The journey has been intense. Last year, in October 2024, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu proposed the Tax Reform Bills to the National Assembly to overhaul the country’s tax structure.

These bills are the Nigeria Tax Bill, Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, and Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Bill

The goal is to consolidate and integrate Nigeria’s tax laws to encourage consistent procedures and efficient administration, allowing for improved tax compliance in the face of current situations.

Some governors voiced their worries as the tax reforms progressed, especially with the implementation of taxation policies impacting natural resources, they were concerned that some tax policies, especially those that targeted oil and gas extraction, might cause economic inequality.

However, the Tax boss and the Tax Reform Committee did not back down from this challenge; they initiated discussions, listened to people’s worries, and—above all—proved to Nigerians that these reforms were not a threat but rather a chance to build a better future for every region in Nigeria.

The governors have now openly backed the tax reform bills, with an emphasis on a revamped VAT distribution system that promotes justice across all regions. They also reiterated their commitment to maintaining the nation’s tax rates, exempting essential products from VAT, and focusing on long-term economic stability.

With the new formula, 50% of VAT revenue will be distributed evenly across the states, while 30% will be based on derivation, ensuring that the states that contribute the most to revenue creation receive their fair share.

The remaining 20% will be allocated according to population size. This formula not only tackles the issue of fairness but also reflects our country’s variety and requirements.

None of this would have been possible without the Tax Boss’s constant effort. As I regularly say, he has demonstrated that tax reform is more than just collecting revenue; it is about ensuring that every Nigerian has access to the services they deserve and can rely on the system to work for them. It is about ensuring a good future for our healthcare, education, infrastructure, and social services.

Three “gbosa for a man wey sabi”, Dr. Zacch! A leader who has shown that no matter how tough the challenges are, with determination, anything is possible. For those of us who have been waiting for this kind of news, it feels like we’re finally about to step into something big, a whole new era for Nigeria.

– Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi is the technical assistant on Broadcast to the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service.

January 17, 2025
On violence against women

Sir: According to the 2024 DOHS Cares Foundation femicide reports, 133 women and girls perished to gender-based violence in 2024 alone. In a country where there is a historical paucity of data, expect that figure to be much higher.

The grim reality is that women and girls continue to be victims in a society where they should be partners, builders and crucially, peacemakers.

In a country riven by poverty and insecurity, it is telling that women, who may just hold the key to long-term solutions to societal problems, have been sucked into it more than any other demographic.

The question of violence against women in Nigeria, fatal in many instances, has been burning for as long as anyone can remember. That very little has been done about it is testament to the dizzying depth of the problem and the reluctance of the society to confront what is a staggering problem.

But what does violence against women really look like? For starters, it is physical abuse manifest in acts that violate the body. This is especially rife in homes that have long gone sour, with many women having been turned into punching bags in their homes. It is sexual abuse with rape being the most serious of it. Women face sexual abuse all day long, all the days of their life. Discrimination because of sex, for granting or withholding sex, really compounds the problem.

Again, marriages many of which have become suffocating cages, account for these systematic and systemic marital abuse with many women finding it impossible to escape because of stigma and economic considerations.

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There is no saying that women need protection. This protection can only be guaranteed by law. Nigeria has the Violence Against Persons Act, which criminalizes any manner of violence against women. But more than having these laws lying around is the need to critically highlight that they have no teeth. Despite the presence of these laws, women continue to be abused. This simply cannot be allowed to continue.

A crucial mistake stakeholders continue to make in the protection of women is to always dismiss instances of serious abuse as family affairs. This practice has never helped anyone and must clearly stop if Nigeria is to make genuine progress in the protection of women.

That women should be free from violence of any kind is key to gender equality, which is underpinned by the need to promote equality and prevent discrimination of any kind. Nigeria would be better for it, but certainly cannot do it with so many women dying every year simply because they are women.

•Kene Obiezu,keneobiezu@gmail.com

January 17, 2025
Reflecting on CBN’s successes

Sir: In 2024, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) experienced a pivotal transformation under the innovative leadership of Governor Yemi Cardoso. Faced with a myriad of economic challenges that have hindered growth and stability for years, Cardoso introduced a series of comprehensive reforms designed to rejuvenate Nigeria’s economy, stabilize the banking sector, enhance foreign exchange markets, and foster financial inclusion for all citizens. His visionary approach marked a turning point for the CBN, steering the country towards a promising path of recovery and sustainable growth.

As inflation rates surged to alarming figures exceeding 33% in mid-2024, the CBN had to take decisive steps to re-establish economic stability. In response, Cardoso spearheaded the adoption of a strategic monetary policy aimed at curbing inflation. In July 2024, the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) was increased to an unprecedented 26.75%. This represented the fourth consecutive hike within just seven months, emphasizing the CBN’s unwavering commitment to controlling inflation and restoring confidence in the economy. By August 2024, these robust interventions began to bear fruit, with headline inflation tapering to 32.15%.

However, the CBN’s strategy extended beyond mere rate hikes. Recognizing that inflation is often driven by supply-side constraints, the CBN actively collaborated with fiscal authorities to tackle underlying issues impacting the economy. Specific challenges, such as agricultural disruptions, high energy costs, and infrastructural inadequacies, were identified and addressed collectively. Furthermore, the CBN placed an emphasis on enhancing credit access to key sectors, such as agriculture and manufacturing. By bolstering domestic production, the CBN aimed to diminish Nigeria’s reliance on imports, a factor that had historically fuelled inflationary pressures.

Recognizing that a resilient financial system is crucial for economic development, the CBN launched an ambitious recapitalization program designed to strengthen banks’ ability to support economic growth and withstand external shocks. The initiative mandated banks to raise additional capital, thereby enhancing their capacity to meet the country’s investment needs.

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This recapitalization effort not only fortified the banking sector’s stability but also aligned Nigerian banks with global standards, enabling them to play a more pivotal role in driving economic growth. To further promote competition and resilience within the sector, the CBN streamlined the bank licensing process, actively encouraging the establishment of new financial institutions. This initiative included the approval of licenses for regional non-interest banks and the expansion of microfinance institutions, aimed at addressing the varied financial needs of individuals and businesses, particularly in underserved and rural communities.

Confronted with an increasingly unstable foreign exchange market in 2024, characterized by substantial devaluation of the naira, the CBN initiated critical reforms aimed at restoring equilibrium. The implementation of a floating exchange rate system allowed market forces to dictate the currency’s value, thereby reducing speculative activities and narrowing the gap between official and parallel market rates. This bold move not only contributed to the restoration of stability in the foreign exchange market but also enhanced transparency, ultimately restoring confidence among investors.

The CBN’s innovative approaches to enhancing remittance flows played a critical role in fortifying the foreign exchange market. By September 2024, monthly remittances had increased to $600 million, acknowledging a significant increase from previous levels.

Perhaps one of the most commendable aspects of the present administration was the steadfast commitment to promoting financial inclusion and driving digital transformation within Nigeria’s financial ecosystem. Recognizing the importance of ensuring that every Nigerian has access to financial services, the CBN rolled out numerous initiatives as part of the National Financial Inclusion Strategy (NFIS). This ambitious plan sought to incorporate historically underserved populations into the formal financial system.

A hallmark accomplishment of the CBN’s commitment to financial inclusion was the establishment of Payment Service Banks (PSBs). These institutions were specifically designed to provide affordable and accessible financial services to millions of Nigerians, particularly those residing in remote and rural areas. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, PSBs delivered innovative digital banking solutions, ultimately enhancing the ease of accessing financial products and services.

Moreover, the CBN actively supported the growth of digital payment systems, facilitating greater access to financial services for individuals who were previously excluded. Initiatives such as the introduction of mobile banking platforms and digital wallets empowered Nigerians to engage in financial transactions with enhanced convenience and security. This technological drive not only improved access to banking services but also fostered a culture of savings and financial literacy among the populace.

The initiatives crafted under Cardoso’s stewardship not only aimed to bring immediate relief to pressing economic issues but also laid the groundwork for sustainable growth in the years to come. By fostering a more inclusive financial environment and enhancing the stability of key economic sectors, the CBN under Cardoso is poised to create a thriving economic landscape that benefits all Nigerians, ultimately steering the nation towards a prosperous future.

•Isah Aliyu Chiroma,aliyuisahchiroma29@gmail.com

January 17, 2025
The military and accidental bombings

Sir: The persistent tragedy of ‘accidental bombings’ by the military has left a devastating mark on the lives of innocent citizens. These incidents, often described as “mistakes,” have become alarmingly recurrent, generating widespread grief, outrage, and calls for accountability. It is both subconsciously saddening and puzzling to witness such preventable losses of life in a nation that seeks to protect its citizens.

The most recent incident occurred on December 27, 2024, when an airstrike targeting Lakurawa terrorists mistakenly hit Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities. The attack resulted in the deaths of at least 10 villagers, while several others sustained injuries. Just days before, another “accidental” strike claimed the lives of several villagers in Zamfara State. These incidents are not isolated, and the frequency with which they occur raises pressing questions about the competence and precision of military operations.

The year 2023 also witnessed similar tragedies. One of the most shocking incidents involved an airstrike by the Nigerian Air Force that killed 37 people, including herders, near the boundary between Benue and Nasarawa states in Doma Local Government Area. Earlier, a drone strike by the Nigerian Army resulted in the deaths of 85 villagers in Tudun Biri, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State. Such events have repeatedly shattered communities and left survivors battling with unending grief.

These accidental bombings are not merely numbers or statistics. Behind every casualty is a human story—families torn apart, children orphaned, and communities plunged into mourning.

The recurring nature of these incidents points to systemic issues within the Nigerian military. Questions abound regarding the accuracy of intelligence, the training of personnel, and the use of technology in military operations. Why do these “mistakes” keep happening, and what measures are being taken to prevent them? These are questions that demand honest answers from the authorities.

Military operations require meticulous planning and execution, especially in densely populated areas. The use of drones, airstrikes, and other advanced weaponry necessitates a high level of precision to minimize collateral damage. Unfortunately, it seems the Nigerian military is struggling to achieve this standard.

Another concern is the apparent lack of accountability. Each time an accidental bombing occurs, the public is presented with apologies and promises of investigations. However, these investigations rarely yield tangible outcomes or lead to meaningful changes.

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It is high time the Nigerian military re-strategized its approach to counterterrorism and other operations. One fundamental step is to invest in advanced technology and training for personnel. Precision-guided munitions, real-time surveillance, and improved communication systems can significantly reduce the risk of collateral damage. Additionally, personnel must be adequately trained to interpret intelligence and execute operations with a focus on minimizing civilian casualties.

Collaboration with local communities is another avenue worth exploring. Villagers often possess valuable on-the-ground intelligence that can help the military plan operations more effectively.

Moreover, the government must institute robust mechanisms for accountability. Independent oversight committees should be established to investigate incidents of accidental bombings and ensure that those responsible are held accountable. Such measures will not only provide justice to victims but also serve as a deterrent against future negligence.

The emotional and psychological toll of these tragedies cannot be overstated. Survivors and affected families often bear the scars of these incidents for a lifetime. The government must prioritize providing adequate compensation and support to victims. This includes financial assistance, access to healthcare, and programs aimed at rebuilding affected communities. The government and military must take decisive action to end this cycle of tragedy and restore public confidence in their ability to safeguard the nation.

The path forward will not be easy, but it is necessary. The military must rise to the occasion, not only by enhancing its operational capabilities but also by demonstrating a genuine commitment to the lives and well-being of all Nigerians. Only then can we hope for a future free from the shadow of accidental bombings.

•Kasim Isa Muhammad,Potiskum, Yobe State.

January 17, 2025
Pie in the sky

For members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme, adjustment in their monthly allowance to reflect inflationary trends in the economy that necessitated a new national minimum wage remains a pie in the sky. Director-General of the scheme, Brigadier-General Yush’au Ahmed, last week assured that proposed increase of the allowance to N77,000 would soon be implemented. Only he did not commit to a date for that implementation.

The Federal Government had in September 2024 approved a raise in corps members’ monthly allowance from N33,000 to N77,000, with retroactive effect from July 2024. This was pursuant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval of N70,000 as the new national minimum wage that July, subject to review every three years. Despite hyper-inflationary pressures, payment of the proposed increase in NYSC allowance is yet to begin, creating concern among corps members and their relations.

Brigadier-General Ahmed made known that arrangements to effect the pay increase had been concluded and corps members could rest assured they would get all the benefits they’re entitled to this year. Speaking in Abuja when he commissioned a staff bus donated by Capital Express Insurance Ltd. to NYSC, he told journalists: “Yes, they have not yet started receiving the increase in their allowance. But I tell you, all arrangements have already been concluded.” He added: “Hopefully, very soon, they will see it. I don’t just want to mention when because I believe we are almost there. Corps members will laugh very soon, that I assure you.”

The D-G reaffirmed government’s commitment to the welfare of corps members, noting that the first item on his own policy template as well is their security and welfare. The scheme, according to him, has always been responsive to the needs of its staff and corps members, taking their wellbeing and safety seriously. It was in that regard, he said, that the bus being commissioned was donated in response to a request for increase in the number of welfare buses for staff and corps members’ use.

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Promises are heart-warming, but they never equate to concrete actions with expectant beneficiaries. Following confirmation of the proposed pay raise by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission in September, last year, Brigadier-Gen. Ahmed in October blamed delay in implementation on non-release of funds to the scheme. If funds have now been released, further bureaucratic delay in corps members receiving the new allowance in their accounts is unjustifiable because inflation hasn’t held back on surging – subjecting corps members, like many other Nigerians, to harsh living conditions. The earliest that hardship is relieved through concrete action on pay increase, the better, because promises do not have the same effect. It is expected that implementation will factor in the outstanding arrears as government policy provides, and further delay makes those arrears unwieldy.

January 17, 2025
Securing Nigeria’s borders: The transformative impact of E-surveillance

By Femi Salako

In a bold demonstration of its commitment to national security, the Federal Government of Nigeria, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has continued to record significant progress with the successful deployment of the advanced e-border surveillance system. Launched on December 14, 2024, at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Technology Innovation Complex, this initiative has become a game-changer in combating irregular migration and enhancing border security.

This state-of-the-art project, spearheaded by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, represents a significant achievement under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Its implementation shows the administration’s dedication to leveraging technology to solve pressing national challenges.

Since its rollout, the e-border surveillance system has proven highly effective in curbing illegal migration, one of Nigeria’s longstanding border security challenges. The project employs cutting-edge automation and monitoring tools, enabling real-time surveillance across Nigeria’s extensive 4,447 kilometers of land, air, and sea borders.

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), which operates the system, has deployed advanced e-border solutions to over 80 crossing points nationwide. These solutions integrate data from INTERPOL and Nigerian security agencies, allowing seamless identification and interception of persons of interest.

Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasized the impact of this innovation during a recent press briefing:

> “This system is a critical tool in our fight against irregular migration. By integrating advanced technology and international intelligence data, we are not only identifying threats but also preventing them from escalating.”

One of the most remarkable outcomes of the e-border system is its role in identifying and capturing persons of interest. Within just a few weeks of operation, the system, particularly at the e-gates installed in five international airports, has successfully flagged and detained individuals with criminal records or suspicious activities.

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“The integration of INTERPOL data and other national security databases has significantly enhanced our ability to detect and respond to threats at our borders,” said Dr. Tunji-Ojo.

These e-gates have not only streamlined airport security but also acted as a robust deterrent to those seeking to exploit Nigeria’s borders for illegal activities.

The Bola Ahmed Tinubu Technology Innovation Complex, which serves as the Command and Control Centre for the e-border system, is the hub of this technological transformation. Operated by 250 highly trained personnel from the NIS working in 24-hour shifts, the complex ensures round-the-clock monitoring and rapid response to any threats.

The technology includes features allowing residents in border communities to report emergencies directly, ensuring swift action by security agencies. This interactive system has bolstered trust between the government and border communities, fostering collaboration in securing the nation.

The operation of e-gates at major international airports, including Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, has not only improved security but also enhanced the travel experience for legitimate passengers. The transition from manual border checks to automated systems has significantly reduced wait times and improved the accuracy of immigration processes.

The minister said “The e-gates are not just about security; they are about efficiency. We are committed to creating a system where law-abiding citizens and visitors can travel seamlessly while ensuring that those with malicious intent are intercepted.”

The e-border surveillance system exemplifies the transformative power of technology in governance. By reducing irregular migration, enhancing airport security, and improving the efficiency of border management, the project has set a new benchmark for border control in Africa.

President Tinubu’s administration has shown that tackling complex challenges requires innovative solutions and unwavering commitment. The success of this project has not only renewed hope among Nigerians but also solidified the country’s reputation as a leader in technological advancement within the region.As the government moves into Phase 2 of the project, extending these solutions to more crossing points, the message is clear: Nigeria is determined to secure its borders and ensure the safety and prosperity of its citizens.

The dream of a safer Nigeria is no longer a distant aspiration—it is becoming a reality, one technological leap at a time.

•Salaki is publisher of Triangle News media

January 16, 2025
Tchiani will fail like all others

By Koje Sarkin Labari

Listen here, our neighbour, Niger Republic’s military ruler General Abdourahmane Tchiani. All the games and tricks you are playing at the moment have been tried numerous times in Africa and none of them ultimately succeeded.

Overthrowing a democratically elected civilian administration and throwing at it every accusation you can think of, has been tried innumerable times all over Africa. The most common accusation is corruption, but history has shown that military rulers are just as corrupt, if not more so, than civilian rulers all over Africa. What else do you expect when a man rules without democratic mandate, without a parliament, without a defined tenure, with little or no audit checks, without the prospect of facing elections, ruling only with brute force?

Throwing out foreign military bases may have its merits and could imbue citizens with a patriotic feeling, but it does not necessarily solve all your problems. Foreign bases have previously been thrown out of Somalia, Cuban troops have left Angola, mercenaries have left Congo, Apartheid South African troops left Mozambique, Angola and Namibia, but problems persisted in many of those countries. More recently, Niger Republic, Burkina Faso and Mali have closed French bases, but insurgencies and terrorism still persist in all three.

Blaming your neighbour has been a trick used by many military rulers, but historically it has been of limited value. Idi Amin once blamed Tanzania and Kenya for his problems; Tchad once blamed Libya; Nigeria twice expelled Ghanaians; Equatorial Guinea once expelled Nigerians; Uganda once sent all Asians packing. None of that ever solved any problems.

Withdrawing from the regional body ECOWAS was a hair-brained idea. In the 1960s and early 1970s, the most vibrant regional organization in Africa was the East African Community, EAC. It had its own airline, railway, open borders and many other areas of mutual cooperation, but egotistic battles between three Heads of State, especially Marshal Idi Amin, led to its collapse. Is that what Tchiani and his co-travelers Traore and want to do, sacrifice a 50-year-old regional cooperation body on the alter of selfish egos and dictatorial self-perpetuation in power?

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Tchiani does not even have the charisma of many former African military rulers. He does not have the world-wide ambition of Muammar Gaddafi. He does not have the dash and flair of Thomas Sankara. He does not have the oratorical powers of Jerry Rawlings. He does not have the commanding presence of Idi Amin. He does not have the austere mien of Mengistu Haile Mariam, the staying power of Gnassingbe Eyadema, the flamboyance of Mobutu Sese Seko or the daring of Idris Deby Itno.

Jailing your overthrown predecessors has not bought peace, stability or legitimacy to a military ruler either. Right there in Niger Republic, didn’t you jail President Diori Hammani from 1974 until he went blind and died in 1989? Colonel Seyni Kountche, brutal as he was, had to give way after some time, dying of brain tumour in 1987. Where is General Ali Seybou? Where is Ibrahim Mainasara Ba’are, who was shot by his own bodyguards? And where is Dauda Malam Wanke?

Tchiani, you promised your people heaven on Earth. You [promised that there will be security; you promised that there will be economic prosperity because you threw out the Frenc who you said were stealing your country’s wealth. Neither security nor prosperity has come in the wake of your failed policies. Instead, it is Niger Republic’s esteem that has fallen in Africa and beyond. Instead of the dashing, charismatic and eloquent President Mohamed Bazoum, here is a dour, colourless soldier intent of whipping up sentiments in order to achieve his own ends. It didn’t work elsewhere in Africa and will not work in Niger Republic. The sooner you return your country to stable democratic rule and the earlier you seek peace and cooperation with your neighbours, the better for you.

•Labari writes from Kaduna.

January 16, 2025