The Nation Newspaper

Category: Commentaries

  • World Sight Day: Prioritizing eye health, preventing blindness in Nigeria

    World Sight Day: Prioritizing eye health, preventing blindness in Nigeria

    Sir: Our eyes are the windows to the world. They enable us to experience life’s beauty and connect with the people around us. The gift of sight is something many of us take for granted, but for millions of people worldwide, including in Nigeria, vision problems are a daily reality.

    Blindness and visual impairment have far-reaching consequences, impacting individuals’ quality of life, limiting educational opportunities, and reducing economic potential. For children, the impact of untreated eye conditions can be devastating, affecting their ability to learn, grow, and contribute to society. It is in this context that World Sight Day 2024, scheduled to be commemorated on October 10, comes with a powerful message: Every child deserves the right to a clear, healthy vision.

    Globally, more than a billion people live with some form of visual impairment or others. In Nigeria, the numbers are alarming. An estimated 4.25 million adults over 40 years are visually impaired, with roughly 1.13 million living with blindness. Even more troubling is the fact that 84 per cent of all blindness cases in Nigeria are preventable or treatable. Despite these numbers, access to eye care services remains inadequate, especially in rural and underserved communities.

     Children are particularly vulnerable. Eye conditions like refractive errors, which could be easily corrected with glasses, often go unnoticed until they cause significant academic or social difficulties. In severe cases, conditions like cataracts and glaucoma can lead to irreversible blindness if left untreated. The tragedy is that many cases are preventable with early intervention, regular eye check-ups, and timely intervention and treatments.

    Optometrists are at the forefront of preventing blindness and promoting eye health. These professionals play a crucial role in detecting, diagnosing, and managing various eye conditions. Optometrists not only prescribe glasses to correct vision but also identify early signs of diseases that could lead to blindness if not addressed promptly.

    In Nigeria, however, there is a shortage of optometrists, particularly in public healthcare systems. The lack of trained eye care professionals means that many individuals, especially children, do not have access to the care they need. This shortage is intensified in rural areas, where people often travel long distances to receive even the most basic eye care services.

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    Optometrists are also essential in providing eye health education to the public. They help raise awareness about the importance of regular eye check-ups and the need to address vision problems early. By educating communities, optometrists contribute to reducing the stigma associated with wearing glasses and other corrective treatments, encouraging people to prioritize their eye health.

    Even with the critical role that optometrists play in safeguarding the nation’s vision, Nigeria’s public health sector has not fully recognized or invested in this profession. Today, our call is simple: the government must take decisive action to employ more optometrists across public healthcare systems, ensuring that all Nigerians, especially children, have access to affordable and quality eye care. The integration of eye care into primary healthcare services is essential to preventing avoidable blindness and improving the overall quality of life for citizens.

     Eye health is also an economic issue. Without proper vision, children struggle to perform well in school, limiting their future opportunities. Adults with untreated vision problems may face difficulties in maintaining employment or contributing to their communities. By investing in eye care, the government can help unlock the educational and economic potential of millions of Nigerians, leading to a more productive and prosperous society.

    World Sight Day is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about blindness and visual impairment. This year, the global focus is on children and young people, emphasizing the importance of ensuring access to the eye care services they need.

    The Nigerian Optometric Association (NOA) is taking a bold step this year with its “My Sight, My Right” campaign, which focuses on child eye health. The campaign’s goal is to inspire children and young people to prioritize their vision, understand the importance of eye health, and take proactive steps to protect their sight.

    The message from the Nigerian Optometric Association is clear: eye health is not an optional extra, it’s vital to everything. Vision is crucial for a child’s development, education, and future success. Every child deserves the opportunity to see the world clearly, and we must take collective action to ensure that no one is left behind due to preventable blindness.

    Let’s mark October 10, as the day we commit to protecting the sight of Nigeria’s children because every child’s vision is worth fighting for. Together, let’s make World Sight Day 2024 one to remember!

    Sir: Our eyes are the windows to the world. They enable us to experience life’s beauty and connect with the people around us. The gift of sight is something many of us take for granted, but for millions of people worldwide, including in Nigeria, vision problems are a daily reality.

    Blindness and visual impairment have far-reaching consequences, impacting individuals’ quality of life, limiting educational opportunities, and reducing economic potential. For children, the impact of untreated eye conditions can be devastating, affecting their ability to learn, grow, and contribute to society. It is in this context that World Sight Day 2024, scheduled to be commemorated on October 10, comes with a powerful message: Every child deserves the right to a clear, healthy vision.

    Globally, more than a billion people live with some form of visual impairment or others. In Nigeria, the numbers are alarming. An estimated 4.25 million adults over 40 years are visually impaired, with roughly 1.13 million living with blindness. Even more troubling is the fact that 84 per cent of all blindness cases in Nigeria are preventable or treatable. Despite these numbers, access to eye care services remains inadequate, especially in rural and underserved communities.

     Children are particularly vulnerable. Eye conditions like refractive errors, which could be easily corrected with glasses, often go unnoticed until they cause significant academic or social difficulties. In severe cases, conditions like cataracts and glaucoma can lead to irreversible blindness if left untreated. The tragedy is that many cases are preventable with early intervention, regular eye check-ups, and timely intervention and treatments.

    Optometrists are at the forefront of preventing blindness and promoting eye health. These professionals play a crucial role in detecting, diagnosing, and managing various eye conditions. Optometrists not only prescribe glasses to correct vision but also identify early signs of diseases that could lead to blindness if not addressed promptly.

    In Nigeria, however, there is a shortage of optometrists, particularly in public healthcare systems. The lack of trained eye care professionals means that many individuals, especially children, do not have access to the care they need. This shortage is intensified in rural areas, where people often travel long distances to receive even the most basic eye care services.

    Optometrists are also essential in providing eye health education to the public. They help raise awareness about the importance of regular eye check-ups and the need to address vision problems early. By educating communities, optometrists contribute to reducing the stigma associated with wearing glasses and other corrective treatments, encouraging people to prioritize their eye health.

    Even with the critical role that optometrists play in safeguarding the nation’s vision, Nigeria’s public health sector has not fully recognized or invested in this profession. Today, our call is simple: the government must take decisive action to employ more optometrists across public healthcare systems, ensuring that all Nigerians, especially children, have access to affordable and quality eye care. The integration of eye care into primary healthcare services is essential to preventing avoidable blindness and improving the overall quality of life for citizens.

     Eye health is also an economic issue. Without proper vision, children struggle to perform well in school, limiting their future opportunities. Adults with untreated vision problems may face difficulties in maintaining employment or contributing to their communities. By investing in eye care, the government can help unlock the educational and economic potential of millions of Nigerians, leading to a more productive and prosperous society.

    World Sight Day is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about blindness and visual impairment. This year, the global focus is on children and young people, emphasizing the importance of ensuring access to the eye care services they need.

    The Nigerian Optometric Association (NOA) is taking a bold step this year with its “My Sight, My Right” campaign, which focuses on child eye health. The campaign’s goal is to inspire children and young people to prioritize their vision, understand the importance of eye health, and take proactive steps to protect their sight.

    The message from the Nigerian Optometric Association is clear: eye health is not an optional extra, it’s vital to everything. Vision is crucial for a child’s development, education, and future success. Every child deserves the opportunity to see the world clearly, and we must take collective action to ensure that no one is left behind due to preventable blindness.

    Let’s mark October 10, as the day we commit to protecting the sight of Nigeria’s children because every child’s vision is worth fighting for. Together, let’s make World Sight Day 2024 one to remember!

    Sir: Our eyes are the windows to the world. They enable us to experience life’s beauty and connect with the people around us. The gift of sight is something many of us take for granted, but for millions of people worldwide, including in Nigeria, vision problems are a daily reality.

    Blindness and visual impairment have far-reaching consequences, impacting individuals’ quality of life, limiting educational opportunities, and reducing economic potential. For children, the impact of untreated eye conditions can be devastating, affecting their ability to learn, grow, and contribute to society. It is in this context that World Sight Day 2024, scheduled to be commemorated on October 10, comes with a powerful message: Every child deserves the right to a clear, healthy vision.

    Globally, more than a billion people live with some form of visual impairment or others. In Nigeria, the numbers are alarming. An estimated 4.25 million adults over 40 years are visually impaired, with roughly 1.13 million living with blindness. Even more troubling is the fact that 84 per cent of all blindness cases in Nigeria are preventable or treatable. Despite these numbers, access to eye care services remains inadequate, especially in rural and underserved communities.

     Children are particularly vulnerable. Eye conditions like refractive errors, which could be easily corrected with glasses, often go unnoticed until they cause significant academic or social difficulties. In severe cases, conditions like cataracts and glaucoma can lead to irreversible blindness if left untreated. The tragedy is that many cases are preventable with early intervention, regular eye check-ups, and timely intervention and treatments.

    Optometrists are at the forefront of preventing blindness and promoting eye health. These professionals play a crucial role in detecting, diagnosing, and managing various eye conditions. Optometrists not only prescribe glasses to correct vision but also identify early signs of diseases that could lead to blindness if not addressed promptly.

    In Nigeria, however, there is a shortage of optometrists, particularly in public healthcare systems. The lack of trained eye care professionals means that many individuals, especially children, do not have access to the care they need. This shortage is intensified in rural areas, where people often travel long distances to receive even the most basic eye care services.

    Optometrists are also essential in providing eye health education to the public. They help raise awareness about the importance of regular eye check-ups and the need to address vision problems early. By educating communities, optometrists contribute to reducing the stigma associated with wearing glasses and other corrective treatments, encouraging people to prioritize their eye health.

    Even with the critical role that optometrists play in safeguarding the nation’s vision, Nigeria’s public health sector has not fully recognized or invested in this profession. Today, our call is simple: the government must take decisive action to employ more optometrists across public healthcare systems, ensuring that all Nigerians, especially children, have access to affordable and quality eye care. The integration of eye care into primary healthcare services is essential to preventing avoidable blindness and improving the overall quality of life for citizens.

     Eye health is also an economic issue. Without proper vision, children struggle to perform well in school, limiting their future opportunities. Adults with untreated vision problems may face difficulties in maintaining employment or contributing to their communities. By investing in eye care, the government can help unlock the educational and economic potential of millions of Nigerians, leading to a more productive and prosperous society.

    World Sight Day is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about blindness and visual impairment. This year, the global focus is on children and young people, emphasizing the importance of ensuring access to the eye care services they need.

    The Nigerian Optometric Association (NOA) is taking a bold step this year with its “My Sight, My Right” campaign, which focuses on child eye health. The campaign’s goal is to inspire children and young people to prioritize their vision, understand the importance of eye health, and take proactive steps to protect their sight.

    The message from the Nigerian Optometric Association is clear: eye health is not an optional extra, it’s vital to everything. Vision is crucial for a child’s development, education, and future success. Every child deserves the opportunity to see the world clearly, and we must take collective action to ensure that no one is left behind due to preventable blindness.

    Let’s mark October 10, as the day we commit to protecting the sight of Nigeria’s children because every child’s vision is worth fighting for. Together, let’s make World Sight Day 2024 one to remember!

    •Dr Elizabeth Eromosele,Idimu, Lagos.

  • Banditry and Radda doctrine

    Banditry and Radda doctrine

    Again, residents of areas in the North where bandits are virulent have  been enjoined to adopt self-defence as their first line remedy. Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda is the latest proponent of that doctrine.

    The self-defence doctrine is not new and has been espoused in diverse shades. Defence Minister Bashir Magashi under the former Muhammadu Buhari administration said it wasn’t the responsibility of the military alone to secure citizens, but that every individual should be alert and ensure their own security whenever necessary. He considered it cowardly when people in communities flee for safety anytime bandits storm in with weapons, saying in his younger days people stood their ground to fight aggression. Others have espoused different versions of same doctrine. Radda’s predecessor in Katsina, Alhaji Aminu Masari, once said it was against Islamic tenets to give in to aggressors like bandits without a fight. Current Defence Minister of State Bello Matawalle, when he was Zamfara State Governor, called on resident to acquire weapons to fight bandits saying he had mandated the police to license such weapons.

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    Now, Governor Radda is making a similar case. He recently disclosed an initiative by his administration whereby communities ready to self-defend against bandits would be given necessary support and formal training on how to engage the criminals before the arrival of security agents. Radda’s logic is that some communities are so far off that it would take hours for security operatives to arrive in response to distress calls over bandit attacks. Speaking at a townhall meeting in Daura, the governor said inter alia: “I went to a village where it took me two hours inside a jeep before I reached (there) from the main road. So, if bandits attack such areas, from the time you inform the security, it will take them over two hours before they can respond to the distress call. By then, whatever is going to happen will have happened. They will have killed people and kidnapped others.” He added: “I have said several times that the security agents cannot do this work alone. We don’t even have enough of them. I am surprised at the way we are dying in such a humiliating manner. We were told that anyone who died in defence of his family would enter paradise. You see five criminals attacking a community of 2,000 to 3,000, rape daughters, women and abducting others without any confrontation from the people of that community. If there are 100 youths in the community who confront them, they will not shoot more than three times before being captured with bare hands”

    Anyone familiar with the massive land mass of the North will appreciate the point Radda was making. It makes a lot of sense. But security agencies also need to situate outposts closer to remote communities and not leave the people to their own mettle whenever bandits strike.

  • Fuel price: Need for technological awakening

    Fuel price: Need for technological awakening

    • By Yusuf Babatunde

    Sir: At an all-time high of 34.2%, Nigeria’s inflation’s effect on fuel price volatility is one that cannot be overemphasized. But it’s high time we acknowledged that our addiction to fossil fuels is no longer sustainable – especially in a fast-evolving world.

     Although many factors—including the fluctuations in global oil prices have left our fuel prices skyrocketing, but this crisis presents an opportunity for innovation—only if federal government would see beyond the present.

     No progressive country in the world would turn a blind eye to the potential of technology in transforming its mobility landscape and reducing its dependence on fossil fuels. Electric vehicles, alternative fuels, fuel efficiency technologies, mobility-as-a-service, and smart traffic management are no longer futuristic concepts; they’re viable solutions Nigeria, too, needs to start embracing on a large scale.

    When you look at how countries like Norway have strategically transitioned to electric vehicles, how Sweden has pioneered biofuel initiatives, and how Singapore facilitated intelligent transportation systems, then one would realize that these demonstrate that technology can liberate Nigeria too from the shackles of fuel dependency.

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    So, then, the question arises: what’s holding Nigeria back? Our government’s hesitation to invest in alternative energy sources and transportation infrastructure is staggering. The Innoson CNG buses (some of which are already on the roads in Lagos and Abuja) are worthy of commendations, but it’s just like rotating in a circle. It’s not really the solution. The most effective solution would have been that the 36 state governments and federal government invest heavily in technology and develop a comprehensive national electric vehicle policy. This would undoubtedly reduce the demand for fuel, and as such, the hike in price would fall drastically.

    That fossil fuels pose existential risks to the planet and climate change, is another reason the Nigerian government needs to transit from them and encourage public-private partnerships for mobility-as-a-service and smart transportation systems.

     The benefits to be cupped from this are numerous, some of which are reduced fuel imports and increased foreign exchange savings, improved air quality and public health, enhanced economic productivity and competitiveness, and even, creation of new industries and job opportunities.

    Nigeria’s future depends on our willingness to embrace technological disruption. We must seize this moment to redefine our mobility landscape and secure a sustainable future. Whether we will continue to perpetuate our fossil fuel addiction or will we choose the path of innovation is a choice we need to make for the progress of this country.

    •Yusuf Babatunde,

    Canada.

  • World Teachers’ Day: Let teachers’ voices count

    World Teachers’ Day: Let teachers’ voices count

    • By Olusegun Fashakin

    Sir: This year’s World Teachers’ Day was celebrated with different perspectives to the degree of sentiments to the teaching profession. This year’s theme: Valuing Teachers: Voices towards a new social contract for education is particularly apt. The distinctive thoughts of teachers may have suffered deaf ears in recent times over policy making which could have affected the line of teaching and learning. Some laws and rules have been propounded by some by-standing individuals in the curriculum of learning which have been causing unsettling ripples among the recipients. If they must be heard, their stays should speak more in the society.

    Who considers the thoughts of our educators lately? Casting stones of limitations and bringing disrepute to our teachers will only reduce the workforce in the teaching profession. It has almost become a regular practice in the admission processes into tertiary institutions that students who have fallen short of the required admission criteria will be advised to find admissions with the college of education, as though the college is a dumping site. We create an impression with policies that teaching is not reputable.

    This year’s world teachers’ day celebration is critically examining the roles of teachers among other professions in making the society a pleasant place to live and work. The voices of the teachers should not fall among the helpless in the society. When it comes to creating opportunities for a favourable condition that may invigorate the dwindling economic values of the nation, the contributions of our scholars should not be predated by that of the politicians. The stigma shouldn’t exist to create a second-class person in our teachers.

    In appointments into offices in ministries related to education by the government, there should be a substantial number of experts who have proven worthy of their certifications in education that occupy these positions. The charade of making a quack fill these positions and assume that they will learn on the job is detrimental to our education sector. Exchanges of employment in these agencies are hampered by persons who may have taken up this task without prior experience of the required qualifications.

    Social engagements of our teachers have been particularly difficult due to some financial constraints on their monthly income. Despite the new minimum wage increase in Nigeria, the rate of income for teachers has been uneven. It may be demoralising for teachers to be among the low income earners in a society where the larger percentage of the population is less educated. If their income is something to go by, the level of commitment by these teachers will increase. Distractions are inevitably causing the negative input of these prestigious sages.

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    You would find the performance graph of a teacher moving south due to low personal income. This graph would go further to address their stress levels because the social expectations are far beyond their ability. If given appropriate and adequate support, teachers would do wonders in the society. They may be assumed to be at their best in the classrooms, but more so in society. The experience is always a daunting one with so much to chew and less to bite.

    A new horizon for teachers should address the working conditions both in the classroom and the staff room. It will also be fair to consider their commitments to the development of manpower in their immediate surroundings. Safe to say that their responsibilities should not be ignored while they struggle to cover up for some inefficiencies in political commitments to free education. The statutory positions of our teaching force should span beyond classroom activities but rather take up positions that may require their expertise.

    The state of the nation is ripe enough to accommodate the demands of the new-generation stakeholders. Also, the new crop of employed teachers should as well embrace these responsibilities. It will be sad to assume that the old principles will still satisfy the new demands from technology and social skills. The unwavering inputs of these change agents and teachers strengthen our valuable workforce. They are more than instructors in the classroom but can be more with that support that drives this dynamic system of this age.

    Our focus on their social contract will be more efficient if we focus on the present social problems and how we can resolve them. It starts in the classroom and spreads wide into the society. The question is not “Who is a teacher? “But “who is not a teacher?” The teaching profession should get a nod if we can find a suitable profession that harnesses the essence of promoting social justice and bridging that gap between a child and a parent.

    •Olusegun Fashakin,

    olusegunfashakin@gmail.com

  • Unpacking the complexities of Nigeria’s struggle with corruption

    Unpacking the complexities of Nigeria’s struggle with corruption

    • By Iliyasu Haruna Bala

    Sir: The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has been at the forefront of Nigeria’s battle against corruption since its inception in 2003. Despite notable successes, including 3,175 convictions and N156 billion recovered between May 29 and the present, corruption remains a pervasive and deeply entrenched issue. This raises fundamental questions about Nigerian society’s willingness to confront and overcome this scourge.

    Recent developments surrounding Yahaya Bello, former governor of Kogi State, have brought the issue into sharp focus. The EFCC’s allegations of diversion of billions of naira intended for the people of Kogi, coupled with testimony revealing lavish personal expenses, including $300,000 for his daughter’s school fees, have sparked intense debate.

    Corruption’s tentacles extend far beyond the realm of politics, infecting every aspect of Nigerian life. From healthcare and education to infrastructure and economic development, the consequences of corruption are stark. Diverted funds intended for essential public services leave citizens vulnerable to inadequate healthcare, substandard education, and crumbling infrastructure. Corruption undermines trust in government and institutions, fostering disillusionment and social unrest. Economic stagnation and inequality result from corrupt practices, stifling innovation and perpetuating poverty.

    The EFCC, under Chairman Ola Olukoyede, has demonstrated unwavering commitment to combating corruption. Notable achievements include the recovery of N156 billion in stolen funds and 3,175 successful prosecutions, as well as ongoing investigations into high-profile cases.

    Despite these efforts, corruption persists, fuelled by a lack of transparency and accountability, inadequate institutional frameworks, and cultural and social norms tolerating corrupt practices.

    The backlash against the EFCC chairman’s efforts to prosecute Bello, with some organizations and individuals calling for the agency’s scrapping or the chairman’s removal, raises concerns about societal attitudes toward corruption. Are Nigerians sympathetic to corruption? Do some view corrupt officials as beneficiaries of a system that rewards cunning and connections rather than honesty and hard work?

    Addressing corruption requires a multifaceted approach, including institutional reforms, education, and civic engagement. Nigerians must recognize corruption’s devastating impact and demand accountability from leaders. The EFCC’s efforts must be supported, and those who engage in corrupt practices must face consequences.

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    Civil society organizations, religious leaders as well as traditional leaders have a critical role in promoting transparency and accountability. The Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room, a coalition of organizations, has consistently advocated for anti-corruption reforms.

    To overcome corruption, Nigeria must strengthen institutions, enhance the EFCC’s capacity, ensure independence, and promote transparency. Civic engagement is crucial, educating citizens on corruption’s consequences and encouraging participation in governance. Cultural norms must be addressed, promoting values of integrity, honesty, and accountability. Whistle-blowers must be protected, and those who expose corruption rewarded.

    Nigeria’s corruption challenge is rooted in its colonial and post-colonial history. The discovery of oil in the 1950s created a culture of dependence on natural resources rather than productive economic activity. Military regimes from the 1960s to 1990s further entrenched corruption, exploiting state resources for personal gain. The return to democracy in 1999 brought hope for change, but corruption persisted.

    Nigeria’s institutional framework is inadequate to tackle corruption. The EFCC faces limited resources, and inadequate legislation. The National Assembly’s reluctance to pass critical anti-corruption bills, such as the Whistle-blower Protection Bill, and creation of full pledge anti-corruption courts undermines efforts to combat corruption in Nigeria.

    Corruption is often normalized in Nigerian society, with many viewing it as a necessary evil, a way of life and a culture to emulate. Education and awareness campaigns can help shift cultural norms, promoting a culture of integrity and accountability.

    Nigeria requires international cooperation to combat corruption. The EFCC’s partnerships with global agencies, such as the FBI and Interpol, have yielded significant successes. However, more needs to be done to track illicit financial flows, prosecute cross-border corruption, and enhance international cooperation.

    Nigeria’s struggle against corruption is ongoing. The EFCC’s efforts, though commendable, require societal support. It is time for Nigerians to recognize corruption’s devastating impact and demand change. Nigeria’s future, democracy, economic development, and social cohesion hang in the balance. The time to act is now.

    •Iliyasu Haruna Bala,

    Jabi, Abuja.

  • Oyetola @ 70th: Celebrating leadership essentials

    Oyetola @ 70th: Celebrating leadership essentials

    By Jimoh Olorede

    On Sunday, September 29, 2024, the former governor of Osun State and incumbent Minister for Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, turned 70th. His Septuagenarian birthday anniversary was very iconic. However, this is not because the atmosphere was rented by pageantry, but modest pleasantry, and not by flamboyant display of wealth. The Minister’s 70th birthday was iconic not because passers-by could not pass during the celebrations, or farmers could not go to farm.

    What made Oyetola’s 70th birthday anniversary unique was the exemplification of good leadership essentials as manifested in the celebrations of his birthday in absentia. So, as in the opinion of John C. Maxwell, after all, “leadership is not about titles, positions, or flowcharts. It is about one life influencing another.” This obviously shows that Oyetola is highly influential by virtue of his leadership essentials, and not mere personality credentials, and his life-changing impacts on many people who insisted on celebrating his birthday anniversary even in absentia as he was far away in Saudi Arabia in solemn supplication, submission and thanksgiving to God Almighty for making him a beneficiary of His benevolence in the last seven decades.

    Also, according to Chris Hadfield, “leadership is not about being liked; it’s about being respected.” The insistence of his followers, loyalists, friends and associates to celebrate his birthday anniversary even when he wouldn’t want to, for certain reasons, was more of a show of respect and adoration to Oyetola.

    The Honourable Minister wouldn’t want to hold any ostentatious celebration or extravagant birthday party for his empathy toward the haves-not and the downtrodden, especially with the present socio-economic situation of the nation. As learnt, the organizers of his 70th birthday anniversary celebrations had to convince him that his solemn mission would be brought to fruition and his decision to execution by organizing a philanthropic celebration that would give privilege to the less-privileged, alms to beggars, food to the hungry, empowerment to widows and widowers and succour to the poor and needy.

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    The free medical outreach programme conducted across Osun State’s three senatorial districts, benefiting over 4,000 residents, showcases Oyetola’s empathetic and compassionate nature. This selfless act embodies the true spirit of leadership.

    In actually fact, what the people from far and near celebrated at Tinubu/Shettima Campaign Office in Osogbo last Sunday was not Oyetola himself, but his indelible footprints, impacts, essence, and leadership quintessence. The presence of the mammoth crowd during the grand finale of the ceremony climaxing the 70th anniversary celebrations of the Minister in his absence seemed to have dislodged a Yoruba adage that says “we can’t shave a man’s head in his absence” (a kii fari lehin olori).

    The attendance of well-meaning personalities like the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola, and other heads of agencies both under the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and beyond, prominent traditional rulers like the Aragbiji of Iragbiji, Ataoja of Osogbo, and many other royal fathers, mayors, players and Chief Executive Officers of different industries, political bigwigs and many other very important personalities (VIP) at the modest birthday prayer session held at the Tinubu/Shettima Campaign Office in Osogbo, Osun State, did not only make the event epochal, but also further justified Oyetola’s prominence, political clout, beneficial personality credentials and leadership essentials.

    The celebrant’s associates appreciate his essence and leadership quintessence as a benefactor, who has taken them thus far in the socio-economic ladder of achievement, as a leader is dead alive, if he could not duplicate or replicate himself. Again, what was celebrated was not Oyetola, but his integrity, which you could take as cheque to the bank. His leadership, marked by integrity and foresight, continues to inspire many, given his commitment to ethical role-modeling and his ability to think critically about the future.

    The Osun State former governor’s visionary leadership, especially as demonstrated during his tenure as governor of the State, which enabled him to achieve remarkable feats despite the challenges he faced, was what attracted people to celebrate him. It’s no gainsaying that his ability to think strategically was instrumental in driving progress in the state.

    More so, his excellent administrative prowess has earned him accolades from various quarters. His commitment to good governance and exemplary leadership has made a significant impact on the lives of Osun State residents. His transparency and accountability have also conferred on him an outstanding status in Nigeria’s political landscape.

    As Minister for Marine and Blue Economy, Oyetola has demonstrated unwavering transparency and accountability. The humongous revenues generated in the first quarter of 2024 and remitted to the Federal Government coffers attest to his acumen in revenue generation, fiscal management, and leadership transparency.

    As we continue to celebrate Oyetola’s 70th birthday, we honour his dedication to public service, community development, and integrity. His life’s work serves as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us that effective leadership is about serving others and making a positive impact, and as we commemorate this milestone birthday, we reaffirm our commitment to emulating these essential qualities of good leadership. We pray God to strengthen his ability to further duplicate and replicate himself as a leader. 

    Dr. Olorede, Head, Department of Strategic Communication and Media Studies at a Federal Higher Institution in Nigeria, writes from Oderinde’s Compound, Iragbiji, Osun State.

  • When public/civil servants speak truth to power

    When public/civil servants speak truth to power

    By Tunji Olaopa

    In this piece, I want to beam a critical light on the significance and role of the public/civil servant within the power dynamics of governance in the Nigerian government. My fundamental concern derives from the central imperative in public administration—the politics-administration dichotomy—that insists that the politicians and the administrators have distinct responsibilities which must be adhered to form a functional state. This is one foundational principle that is so useful for the attainment of good governance. However, its utility must be conditioned by contextual peculiarities in the governance and administrative reality of where the dichotomy is expected to work. I have been an ardent institutional reformer for many years, and from the perspective of my governance and administrative reform experience, the kind of model that define the relationship between the politician and the administrator has a lot to do with how effective governance can be. I have the famous and most successful Awolowo-Adebo model of the old western region as good practice to reference in benchmarking politics-administration partnership required for the fruition of a developmental democratic state.

    What power dynamics constrain or enable the efficiency of the politicians and the administrators working together? I have been fascinated for a long time about the phrase “speaking truth to power.” And my fascination was triggered when I made the decision, many years back, to start my public commentaries in newspapers. That was a move that was contrary to expectation of my status as a public servant. The origin of the phrase is often ascribed to Bayard Ruskin, the civil right activist and Quaker. Indeed, it was his religious background that enabled him to construe that phrase as the most fundamental role of a religious group in its relationship to government. In 1955, the Quaker authored a pamphlet titled, Speaking Truth to Power: A Quaker Search for an Alternative to Violence. The phrase is meant to serve as a framework of nonviolence for protesting and transforming government policies. It forms a crucial part of the struggle for justice that distinguishes the name and activism of Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King, Jr., Wole Soyinka, Malala Yousafzai, etc.

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    How can a civil servant speak truth to power, especially in a dysfunctional public administration system that is expected to birth a world class institution capable of delivering an efficient productivity and infrastructural development? Or, even more precisely: how equipped are the civil servants, within such a system, to speak the truth that comes from what power? I have been too much of an insider not to be able to speak to the non-political capacity of the civil servants to wield enormous administrative power. And this power consists of the ability of the civil servants to service the public interest through the immense and complex dynamics of administering the statutory function at the heart of the state’s administration: providing well-run services to the public, offering expert advice to ministers and government, implementing regulatory controls that are enabling for economic growth in manner that protect the public and nation’s interest at all times.

    Unfortunately, the capacity the civil servants should have had to offer fearless administrative and governance advice has been hollowed out, as far as the Nigerian public service is concerned, by a declining institutional and policy capacity, the lamentable loss of professional independence to stay aloof of partisan politics through the coherent and formal framework of legal-rationalism, and many more. The gross implication is not only that the public servants fail in their fundamental task of administering the Nigerian state, they also become essentially inconsequential in the eyes of the political class. Either way, Nigerians lose. And the project of ensuring the well-being of the citizens keeps floundering. No incapacitated civil servants have the power to speak truth to power.

    To be fair, we can equally ask how complicit the public servants also are in the steady decline of the public service system, and their own self-imposed incapacity to speak truth from a position of professional capacitation? For instance, are public servants drawn into the bureaucratic game by holding back in offering genuine and objective administrative advice in terms of the best policy options—no matter the consequences—for fear of falling out of favour with their bosses? Is loyalty or being respectful privileged over the best interest of the government that is served by speaking out boldly when the best options in policy choices are not taken? In what I have called the bureau-pathology of the Nigerian civil service system, public servants often play the game that get them to the top of their careers mostly through acquiring the skills to dodge risks and courageous administrative discretion, and being largely uncreative and non-innovative.  

    A very good example of this bureau-pathological deficiency can be found in public information management. Rather than communicating strategically to articulate the issues that the government is concerned about in terms of the governance policies that will make a difference in the lives of Nigerians, public officers throw strategic communication to the winds and adopt a propagandist framework that is more worried about how policies are received by the public. And this leaves the government worse off as soon as the citizens see through the ploy to pull the wool over their eyes, rather than fix the problems that are impoverishing them. And that is not to say that the government itself has not compromised the civil servants with its distortionary politics that not only undermine whatever safe places the public servants might have—like the Simeon Adebos and the Allison Ayidas of the 1960s and the 1970s—to engage in policy debates that might help in redeeming the government policy performance. The government has also consistently dipped its hand in bad politics or poorly conceived policies that side-track the government from the fundamental objective of making life meaningful for Nigerians.

    Speaking truth to power in this dysfunctional scenario becomes very difficult but definitely not impossible. It should rather be seen as a horizon of possibility. And the first condition for that courage to face down political power is to be in control of the flow of information, especially regarding contestable and non-contestable facts; articulating differing and competing policy perspectives that could aid the government’s policy decisions; as well as the logic that shapes the dynamics governing the contexts of the policy processes—the deep nuances and intelligences that are critical to the capacity of the government to make good policy decisions. This, in the best tradition of public service, constitutes the function of the public servant—creating the optimal policy environment where facts, information, intelligence, contexts and perspectives are weighted to articulate nuanced policy scenarios that provides for the government the best policy choices. Given this proof of administrative competence, the public service justifies its own relevance and provides government with no choice but to regard the civil service as the first point of call in terms of policy guidance and direction. Where policy options are not evidence-based and rooted in knowledge and intelligence, the government to be able to do well on behalf of the people has to look for it elsewhere. And this is where outsourcing policy guidance to consultants and external expertise becomes a terrible indictment of the civil service.

    To speak truth to  power  in administrative terms is therefore to speak with the authority that insists that government must follow a particular policy direction,  rather  than   another, based on the aggregation of facts and evidence, the weighing of options, insights and alternatives, and the consideration of scenarios with foresight thinking that anticipate current, emerging and potential policy issues and ideas with clarity and precision. For the civil servant to speak truth to power, the civil servant must speak ex cathedra in the operation of the civil servant’s status as a seasoned professional who understands the demands and imperatives of the office and is fearless in carrying them out. The demand of the office requires that civil servants are sufficiently creative and innovative in pre-empting administrative problems before they arise. This entails deploying resident institutional capacity to give early warnings even on issues that it sees, but which it cannot institutionally resolve on its own. This foresighted and creative anticipation is one of the significant professional capacities that stood the super-permanent secretaries out before, during and after the turbulent period of the Nigerian Civil War. They were courageous, bold and foresighted in dealing with the myriad issues that a war-time administration required to keep functioning and not dissolve into chaos.

    This suggests that going forward, the civil service needs new skills that are significant for transforming the civil service institution into a new public service sufficiently capacitated to speak truth to power in fast tracking the transformation of the system into a world class institution that is capacity ready to deliver effective and efficient performance and productivity. The civil servants must be able to think digital, understand systems, dimension the big picture through deployment of analytics, data and the management of projects complexities. They must also be guarded by administrative values, old and new. Apart from the enforcement of the old traditional values of efficiency, effectiveness, integrity, impartiality, neutrality, anonymity, responsiveness, representativeness, loyalty, equity, fairness, etc., there is also the new public service values: innovation, quality, team work, empowerment, openness, and so on.  

  • Adegboyega Oyetola: Reflections on leadership and legacy

    Adegboyega Oyetola: Reflections on leadership and legacy

    “And reckon (people) by the number of years, so that they may understand.” (Quran 18:19).

    My first encounter with Adegboyega Oyetola, then Chief of Staff to Governor Rauf Aregbesola, occurred in 2014 during the buildup to the Osun governorship election, where Aregbesola sought reelection on the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket. Today, Oyetola serves as the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy.

    My second and most enduring encounter with Oyetola commenced in October 2016, when I was appointed Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Media by Aregbesola. I later continued to serve under Governor Oyetola in the same capacity from December 4, 2020, to November 26, 2022. This tenure fostered a profound bond between us, transforming into a lasting father-son relationship that remains strong to this day.

    Reflecting on Oyetola’s leadership and legacy reveals valuable insights into governance, vision, and community impact. Born on September 29, 1954, in Iragbiji, Osun State, Oyetola’s transformation from insurance expert to Chief of Staff, governor, and now minister, demonstrates unwavering dedication to public service. It shows that one can live with conviction and integrity, earning respect rather than hatred. Today, Nigerians admire not only his achievements but also his character, shaped by humility, compassion and an untiring commitment to the greater good.

    Oyetola’s remarkable journey teaches us that true fulfilment lies not in power, wealth or fame, but in humility, empathy and a deep connection to the human experience. Through life’s trials and triumphs, he has remained steadfast, acknowledging divine guidance. Now, he seeks the quietude that calms the mind, clarity that illuminates the heart, and wisdom that guides the soul.

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    Olalekan Badmus, an engineer and former Commissioner for Regional Integration and Special Duties in Oyetola’s government, praises the former governor as “a highly respected leader with a proven track record of delivering on promises and upholding exceptional administrative ethics.” Badmus, who’s currently the Executive Director of Marine and Operations at the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), believes that Oyetola’s legacy continues to inspire and motivate both those who’ve worked under him and those growing under his guidance. I also share this sentiment!

    As we mark Oyetola’s 70th birthday, Psalm 90:12 takes on profound significance: “Teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.” This milestone presents a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of politics, governance and community development through his experiences. We can draw valuable lessons from his leadership, highlighting the importance of vision, integrity and compassion in shaping Nigeria’s future.

    As Oyetola marks seven decades of life, has his extensive experience taught him to cherish every day? If his 70th birthday presents a chance to reflect on his legacy, accomplishments and future goals, will he leverage this landmark to mentor, advise and inspire future leaders? What does he hope to achieve or leave behind? Is it not time for the consummate politician to start reassessing priorities, considering succession planning, and ensuring his vision endures? Will he consolidate past accomplishments or pursue new challenges? Can his influence champion critical policies, education, healthcare or economic development?

    At 70, Oyetola should cement his legacy by consolidating achievements and resolving pending issues. As he begins this new chapter, recognizing when to pass the baton and offer guidance, rather than control or power play, is crucial. It is a time for reflection, growth, and exploration of personal passions that bring joy and fulfilment. Sharing his wisdom through memoirs, lectures, or mentorship will inspire future generations and solidify his historical impact. Since perfection is God’s exclusive domain, ‘IleriOluwa’, as Oyetola is fondly called, should own mistakes, acknowledge errors, and foster a culture of responsibility with tactical mandate. Even when he has mastered the clock, he still has to thread the needle carefully, and his commitment to integrity will have a lasting impact beyond his tenure – knowing his legacy transcends politics.

    In the words of Nelson Mandela, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” And, according to the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) conducted by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) in 2021, there were “8-15% dropout rate among adolescents in primary and secondary schools across the Southwest region, which include Ekiti, Oyo, Lagos, Ondo, Osun, and Ogun states.” For Oyetola specifically, education “is the foundation upon which an individual builds his or her life.” So, is it any wonder why his commitment to education is evident in initiatives like payment of West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) fees for students, distribution of educational materials and scholarship schemes? For these noble ventures, Oyetola deserves all the flowers!

    ‘Ìlera l’ògùn orò’ (Health is wealth) Marking his 70th birthday, Oyetola’s free medical and surgical outreach for more than 4,000 Osun State residents is truly commendable. This initiative showcases his unwavering commitment to community well-being. Additionally, distributing raw food items to vulnerable individuals through selected mosques, churches, and accredited centers across the state demonstrates his kindness and dedication to those in need. Indeed, that’s a kind of heart!

    ‘Ilé la ti ń kó èsó r’òde’ (Charity begins at home). I’ve long argued that Oyetola’s lasting legacy will be shaped by his success in revitalizing Osun APC, rather than his current role in Abuja. Beyond his distinguished public service, his political endeavors, particularly in addressing Osun APC’s challenges, must yield tangible results. Currently, Osun APC yearns for testimonies that are difficult for the enemies to believe and Oyetola should be prepared to lead the prayer warriors.

    In today’s complex and noisy political landscape, defections have become an inherent part of the game. Unfortunately, pretence, sycophancy and eye-service have also become synonymous with its unwritten rules. Of course, that’s why those who are supposed to be seeing visions end up kneeling for those who are imbued with the gift of dreaming. How do I mean? Specifically, why do politicians in Nigeria, including those in Osun State, predominantly switch between the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) and APC, rarely considering alternatives like Labour Party (LP) or Action Alliance (AA)? As Oyetola takes on the challenge of revitalizing Osun APC’s fragile dynamics, he must recognize that election victories rely practically on the undiluted support of the mass of the people, the critical electorate. Therefore, appealing to their consciences is paramount!

    To revitalize his influence, Oyetola should do more in reconnecting with the grassroots by personally engaging local communities, listening to their concerns, and sincerely empowering them to drive change. This entails fostering intra-party democracy through open dialogue, transparency and inclusive decision-making. By building strategic alliances with like-minded organizations and stakeholders, IleriOluwa can amplify his impact and create lasting change.

    At 70, Oyetola’s life embodies the human experience: a poignant balance of vulnerability and resilience, impermanence and transcendence. Seven decades of life have distilled his perspective, revealing that true fulfilment stems from appreciation, not accumulation, and that life’s value lies not in its length, but its depth. Yes, his journey has illuminated the convergence of purpose and meaning, where passion meets significance.

    As this soulful individual, whose life embodies the beauty of human existence, embarks on a new chapter, may his praise resonate eternally, inspiring humanity with a symphony of gratitude! May his faith remain unwavering, his heart humble, and his spirit vibrant! May his journey be filled with transcendent moments, wise reflections, cherished memories, and the uplifting power of faith, hope and love! May he find solace in the present, gratitude for the past, and hope for the future!

    Because He lives, for Adegboyega Oyetola, the end is not now!

    May the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world, grant us peace in Nigeria!

  • Fubara versus Wike: The way out

    Fubara versus Wike: The way out

    Sir: While the political squabble between Governor Simi Fubara of Rivers State and Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has lingered, it’s quite saddening that all the elders of the state, including Dr. Peter Odili, seem helpless about the ugly development.

    There is no doubt that the governor has remained unsettled in the last one year, a development that has stalled his efforts at engineering purposeful and resourceful governance in the state. 

    In a nascent democracy like ours, 95% of political office holders have one political bloc or the other to thank for their emergence and meteoric rise. While Fubara was enjoying meteoric rise in Wike political bloc, even up to his choice of office as governor, he never questioned the propriety and appropriateness of the mode of ascendance.

    Of course, one knew that Fubara harboured in his mind to immediately dismantle the bloc as soon as opportunity presented itself. His spirited but unsuccessful efforts to take over the bloc and render Wike stranded is certainly at the root of the unending political impasse with his benefactor. 

    Indeed, that is why the FCT Minister has fought tooth and nail to rescue the bloc from the hands of Fubara. In fact, there is no other angle to look at the obvious political miscalculation on the path of Fubara than the above. 

    And now, the latest news coming from the state indicates the FCT Minister seems to have been vindicated, as he’s taken absolute charge and control of the political bloc, with virtually all known and respected political figures remaining or coming back to his camp.

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    Meanwhile, Governor Fubara and his motley crowd of faithful have been forced to move to APP, another political party to seek political redemption during the forthcoming local government election in the state.

    It does also appear that majority of Ijaws, the Fubara kinsmen are with the FCT Minister. With the present political calculation in the state, Governor Fubara seems to have lost out. 

    But, all hope is not lost.  I’m not advocating that the governor surrender the authority and power of his office. But, he needs to reach out to his benefactor for amicable settlement in the interest of his political future and more importantly, the longsuffering people of Rivers state. This remains the path of honour for him to tread.     

    The governor’s recent declaration that he won’t lose his liver and kidney to retain his governor’s office is unhelpful. He needs to find the grace to go the extra mile to reconcile with his benefactor.           

    •Kola Amzat (FCA, FCIB) Lagos.

  • Mass resignation of Bauchi varsity academic staff

    Mass resignation of Bauchi varsity academic staff

    Sir: The recent resignation of no fewer than 30 members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) from Sa’adu Zungur University (SAZU) in Bauchi State is an issue that requires immediate attention from the government. This exodus threatens not only the stability of the institution but also the quality of education in the region. It is imperative that the government takes this situation seriously and conducts a thorough investigation to understand the root causes.

    Academic institutions are the backbone of any society, responsible for shaping the next generation of leaders and professionals. When such large numbers of academic staff leave their posts, it disrupts the entire academic programme. Students, who are the primary stakeholders, suffer the most as their education is put on hold. This resignation crisis at SAZU could have far-reaching consequences on both the university and the broader education sector in Bauchi State.

    The departure raises several concerns. It signals a deep-seated problem within the university system. Mass resignations rarely happen without a strong reason, and it is unlikely that all 30 individuals left simultaneously without common grievances. These grievances could range from poor working conditions to disagreements with the university’s management. Whatever the reasons, it is crucial that the government investigates the matter.

    ASUU has consistently raised concerns about the working conditions in Nigerian universities. These concerns include inadequate pay, poor infrastructure, and a lack of support for research and academic development. If these issues are at the heart of the resignations at SAZU, it points to a broader systemic problem in Nigeria’s higher education system, which the government cannot afford to ignore.

    There are also concerns that internal conflicts within the university’s management may have contributed to the resignations. If there are unresolved disputes between the university leadership and academic staff, it is essential that the government investigates these conflicts. The government should not only be concerned with the welfare of the students but also with ensuring that university management practices are fair, transparent, and conducive to a healthy academic environment. If the investigation reveals that the resignations were caused by poor management practices, the government must take action to restructure the university’s leadership. Universities should be places of learning, collaboration, and innovation, and any leadership practices that stifle these goals must be corrected.

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    Mass resignations are a symptom of a failing system, and without systemic changes, the problems facing SAZU could easily spread to other institutions. The government should prioritize reforms that improve the working conditions of academic staff, increase funding for research, and modernize university infrastructure.

    In addressing the situation at SAZU, the government must also engage with ASUU. ASUU has been a vocal advocate for the rights of academic staff and the improvement of Nigeria’s education system. The government should work collaboratively with ASUU to identify the core issues affecting universities and implement solutions that benefit both staff and students.

    The government must ensure that the investigation into the resignations is transparent and unbiased. An objective investigation will not only provide clarity on the issue but will also help restore confidence in the government’s commitment to improving education in Nigeria. Both academic staff and students need to see that the government is taking their concerns seriously and is willing to take action.

    In the short term, the government must work with SAZU to mitigate the immediate effects of the resignations. This may include hiring temporary staff to fill the vacancies left by the ASUU members or reallocating resources to ensure that students’ education is not disrupted further. Ensuring that students can continue their studies without significant delays should be a top priority.

    It is time for the government to take responsibility and show that it is committed to improving the state of higher education in Nigeria. Only through decisive action can the government ensure that SAZU remains a place of learning, growth, and opportunity for both staff and students.

    •Abubakar Sadiq Abba,Borno State University, Maiduguri.