The Nation Newspaper

Category: Commentaries

  • A tale of two monarchs

    A tale of two monarchs

    Sir: In his ‘ Letter to my son, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi’ the late Baba Ahmed Joda captured the reality and the core dimension of northern crisis. He wrote: ‘ The reality we must face in Northern Nigeria is that the evil forces of feudalism that have kept us in bondage for so long are still there and fighting. You have been the only voice that has been telling us this truth. These forces will fight you and you know it’.

    For the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III and Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II of Kano, they are heading the two most powerful and influential traditional institutions not only in Nigeria but also in Africa. While the Sultan has been rated as an African leader who leads peace and development initiatives, Emir Sanusi was included in the list of 100 influential people in the world by the Financial Times  magazine. They are more than traditional rulers because they violate norms and conventions to establish a point. Thus, their criticisms are constructive and awesome for those with original mind. It is for this factor that most of the northern political elites are not comfortable with them.

    In the contemporary north, two types of traditional rulers exist, the voiced and the voiceless. Sultan Abubakar and Emir Sanusi belong to the voiced category. They are impliedly advocating for the northern political leaders and other stakeholders to reflect on the 15 Laws of Growth postulated by John Maxwell. They understand that the north is not growing with leadership prospects to move forward. With North’s over population and massive infrastructures, yet it is not actually developing. In a nutshell, both royalists are responding to the agony of our underdevelopment.

    Read Also: Barau mourns 14 worshippers crushed by trailer in Kano

    The monarchs are fully aware that this is 21st Century. However, we don’t have a development benchmark to identify our strengths and know our areas for improvements. The north does not possess a balanced sheet for its sustainable development. It is as if we were living in the dark ages because of the horrors of the bandits and insurgents. The north is depreciating rapidly and is becoming like the animal kingdom where blood is cheaper than water. As it is now, the average northerner is dispossessed of defence in security, economy, education and prosperous future. This is where we are now!

    And we still don’t know where we want to be tomorrow.

    The Sultan and Emir Sanusi have been depicted in various terms such as sanctimonious and what have you. They are seen as ‘sinners’ by those who assume the status of ‘ puritans’ because they always call a spade a spade. Their ideological union is a threat to the conservative north. However, those who are not labelled as sanctimonious are jittery of calling a spade by its proper name. But the point is this: what messages are the Sultan and Emir Sanusi conveying and how are they resonating with the prevailing trends? Are we more concerned with the messenger or the message?

    I have known two politics taught by the late Uthman Fodio, ‘just’ and ‘unjust’ politics. While the former is for the general well-being, the latter is a political risk as it centres on egoism. These political elites who are at loggerheads with just politics will continue fighting individuals of high esteem. However, the good students of just politics are never lacking in political innovations and unbridled imaginations that transcend narrow perspectives to transform societies.

    In 2024, Jonathan’s credo to wit: “My political ambition is not worth the blood of any Nigerian” still echoes. It is a comprehensive memo for the disgruntled politicians who are unmindful of the risk involved in the clash of personal interest with blood of the ordinary people. The current tension in Kano and Sokoto suffices here.

    •Abdu Abdullahi,Ringim, Jigawa State.

  • Benefits of artificial intelligence in project management

    Benefits of artificial intelligence in project management

    Sir: The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has brought about groundbreaking changes across various industries worldwide, and project management is no exception to this transformation. General Artificial Intelligence (GenAI), which refers to AI systems with the capability to perform any intellectual task that a human can, presents a substantial opportunity for enhancing project management in Nigeria. Its potential has been demonstrated in countries such as the United States and China, where GenAI has effectively enhanced project outcomes. However, leveraging these benefits comes with its own set of challenges that need to be addressed.

    GenAI has the ability to analyze large volumes of data more efficiently and accurately than humans. This provides valuable insights that can improve decision-making processes. In Nigeria, where project delays and budget overruns are common, AI can forecast potential risks and suggest mitigation strategies. For example, AI algorithms can detect patterns in project data, enabling managers to anticipate issues such as resource shortages or scheduling conflicts.

     Automating routine tasks is a key benefit. GenAI can manage repetitive activities like scheduling, reporting, and data entry, allowing human resources to focus on more strategic tasks.

     GenAI can enhance resource allocation by analyzing historical project data and current project needs. This ensures that resources such as labor, materials, and finances are utilized effectively, minimizing waste and boosting productivity. This capability is particularly valuable in a country where resource management is often challenging.

    Read Also: China willing to work with Nigeria on global initiatives, says YAN Yuqing

     AI-driven tools can facilitate better communication and collaboration among project team members. Features such as AI-powered chatbots and collaboration platforms ensure that team members are kept updated in real-time, promoting a more cooperative environment. This is especially beneficial for large projects involving multiple stakeholders across different locations in Nigeria.

    Adopting GenAI in Nigeria presents several challenges that need to be addressed for successful implementation. The adoption of GenAI in Nigeria is hindered by the need for robust infrastructure and reliable internet connectivity. AI systems require significant computing power and stable internet connections to function effectively. While urban areas may have better infrastructure, rural regions often face connectivity issues, limiting the widespread adoption of AI.

    Implementing GenAI requires a skilled workforce in AI technologies, which is currently in short supply in Nigeria. To address this, the country needs to invest in education and training to build a pool of AI talent. Partnerships between the government, educational institutions, and the private sector can help bridge this skill gap by developing relevant curricula and training programs.

    AI systems depend on large datasets to function effectively. However, data privacy and security concerns can hinder AI adoption. In Nigeria, clear regulations and frameworks are needed to ensure that data is collected, stored, and used responsibly. This includes protecting sensitive information and ensuring compliance with data protection laws.

    The initial cost of implementing AI technologies can be high, which may deter some organizations from adopting GenAI. Additionally, there are potential risks associated with AI, such as the need for continuous updates and maintenance, and the possibility of AI systems making errors. While the long-term benefits of AI can outweigh these initial costs and risks, securing the necessary investment and preparing for these challenges can be challenging, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria.

    To fully exploit the potential of GenAI, it is imperative for stakeholders to collaborate in establishing the essential infrastructure, nurturing AI talent, and implementing robust data governance frameworks. Through these efforts, Nigeria has the opportunity to position itself as a frontrunner in AI-powered project management, paving the way for a more effective and innovative future. This highlights the significance of each stakeholder’s role and their capacity to influence the future of project management in Nigeria.

    •Oghenekevwe Kofi, kevwekofi@gmail.com

  • TETFund: Much about contract

    TETFund: Much about contract

    By Olujide Mayowa

    With the renewed determination of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to fight all forms of corruption in a more professional manner and with due regard for propriety, efficiency and respect for the rule of law, it is the expectation of Nigerians that anti-corruption agencies in the country will align with the president’s reinvigorated commitment and discard the toga of media trials and leaks, or being used as instruments of blackmail and character assassination, particularly of public office holders.

    Sometime in April 2024, an online media outfit carried a publication on a N7.6 billion contract allegedly awarded by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), with a similar report emerging from another online newspaper barely a month after.

    While it is no longer news that anti-corruption agencies have since commenced investigations into the allegation against TETFund, one is taken aback to note that the investigation of the is not based on any complaint by the management of its beneficiary institutions, or vociferous unions in the institutions such as the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), but a little-known organization by the name Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA) with neither presence nor footprint in the educational sector.

    The reports suggest that that the Fund is being questioned over its decision to sign a memorandum of understanding instead of going through the contract process in executing the ICT Roadmap programme. The roadmap programme, records indicate, consists of two components. One is about enhancing the communication skills of relevant staff of tertiary institutions while the other is the blackboard digital learning platform for all students in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.

    Available information indicates that the ICT Roadmap programme is not a new project. The scheme actually predates the tenure of the current executive secretary. It commenced in 2016 and was predicated on the report of a study on the state of readiness and relative level of adoption of ICT by beneficiary institutions. Just like committees were constituted for the Research Development Programme and Higher Education Book Development Initiative of TETFund, the same was done for the Learning Management System project. These committees parade academicians from all tiers of tertiary institutions across various disciplines with relevant and valuable experience to design the framework for implementation.

    The objective was clear. Many of the country’s tertiary institutions were lagging far behind in ICT knowledge and application. While various schools were at different levels, with some requiring additional investments in both infrastructure, systems transformation and personnel training, many institutions in remote locations had little or no broadband penetration. Moreover, newly established institutions have to establish systems, hire and/or upskill personnel before coming onboard the TETFund-supervised programme.  

    Analysts have argued that considering the “siddon look” attitude of many Nigerians as experienced with updating INEC voters register, collection of PVC and registration for National Identification Number, it is unwise to subject a scheme as the ICT Roadmap – largely a training programme- to the usual procurement process of fixed contracts, with the booby traps of default clauses, stiff penalties and huge cost variations.

    Indeed, the framework agreements and MOU approach embraced by TETFund entails partnering, collaboration and cooperation. These are more flexible approaches than the contract system. The approach of the managers at TETFund ensures that only tuition access fee per student/trainee is fixed. This allows variability without penalties and that is why the number of beneficiary institutions has increased to 271 from the initial 253 when the MOU was first executed. Presently, a few private universities have indicated interest in embracing the scheme under the TETFund umbrella. The new joiners will benefit from a fixed cost and enjoy a discounted price!

    Read Also: Lagos seeks partners to double LSETF funding

    One other lesson that can be learnt is that service contracts involving access or license fees are typically based on availability, whether it is used or not and are subject to renewal on an annual basis with the possibility of price adjustment. The MOUs adopted by TETFund have 3-5 years duration and the cost per trainee remain fixed for the entire period. 

    Going beyond the surface, seeking a strict understanding of the procurement process and the law which established TETFund, one understands that the agency does not unilaterally chart the path for its interventions to beneficiary instituti With the renewed determination of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to fight all forms of corruption in a more professional manner and with due regard for propriety, efficiency and respect for the rule of law, it is the expectation of Nigerians that anti-corruption agencies in the country will align with the president’s reinvigorated commitment and discard the toga of media trials and leaks, or being used as instruments of blackmail and character assassination, particularly of public office holders.

    Sometime in April 2024, an online media outfit carried a publication on a N7.6 billion contract allegedly awarded by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), with a similar report emerging from another online newspaper barely a month after.

    While it is no longer news that anti-corruption agencies have since commenced investigations into the allegation against TETFund, one is taken aback to note that the investigation of the is not based on any complaint by the management of its beneficiary institutions, or vociferous unions in the institutions such as the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), but a little-known organization by the name Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA) with neither presence nor footprint in the educational sector.

    The reports suggest that that the Fund is being questioned over its decision to sign a memorandum of understanding instead of going through the contract process in executing the ICT Roadmap programme. The roadmap programme, records indicate, consists of two components. One is about enhancing the communication skills of relevant staff of tertiary institutions while the other is the blackboard digital learning platform for all students in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.

    Available information indicates that the ICT Roadmap programme is not a new project. The scheme actually predates the tenure of the current executive secretary. It commenced in 2016 and was predicated on the report of a study on the state of readiness and relative level of adoption of ICT by beneficiary institutions. Just like committees were constituted for the Research Development Programme and Higher Education Book Development Initiative of TETFund, the same was done for the Learning Management System project. These committees parade academicians from all tiers of tertiary institutions across various disciplines with relevant and valuable experience to design the framework for implementation.

  • Refineries: Waiting for Godot

    Refineries: Waiting for Godot

    If frontline tycoon Aliko Dangote had under-gauged how heavily Nigeria depends on his private refinery that came on stream early this year, he got a hint from the panic over a recent  minor fire incident at the facility.

    The fire incident occurred penultimate Wednesday at the effluent treatment plant of the Dangote Refinery and Petrochemicals located at the Lekki free trade zone in Lagos, sending chilly waves into Nigerians who mostly pin their hope on the facility delivering refined petrol to the local market to relieve the country’s heavy dependence on imported petrol that does not come cheap in view of foreign exchange dynamics, among other cost-push factors. The 650,000 barrels-per-day private refinery commenced production of diesel and aviation fuel in January, and was expected to add petrol to its product line by May.

    The firm confirmed penultimate Wednesday’s fire incident as minor and nothing to worry much about. Reports said emergency services responded swiftly to contain the incident. The cause of the fire was not immediately known and investigations were launched to ascertain the extent of damage and what started the fire. “We have swiftly contained a minor fire incident at our effluent treatment plant (ETP) today, Wednesday, 26th of June. There is no cause for alarm as the refinery is operating and there is no recorded injury or bodily harm to our staff on duty,” the Group Head, Corporate Communications, Anthony Chiejina said in a statement. Effluent treatment is a type of wastewater treatment method used in purifying industrial wastewater so to ensure release of safe water to the environment, and thereby preserve environment from harmful effects caused by effluents.

    Read Also: China willing to work with Nigeria on global initiatives, says YAN Yuqing

    The panic over the Dangote refinery fire was against the backdrop of serial failed promises by government that public-owned refineries that are being refurbished were about resuming production. As far back as August 2023, Petroleum Resources Minister of State (Oil) Heineken Lokpobiri was reported saying the Port Harcourt refinery would roll out by December 2023. His promise during an inspection tour of the facility was re-echoed by Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Group Chief Executive Mele Kyari while meeting with House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas in November 2023. But the promise never materialised and NNPCL has returned a couple of times to set new dates that also fell through. Mid-March, 2024, Kyari promised during an interactive session with the Senate that Port Harcourt would take off within two weeks, which never came. In May, an NNPCL report set September as the new date. Well, the thing about phony promises is that they always have an expiry date.

    Godot is the phantom figure in Samuel Beckett’s two-act absurdist classic who never came. We’ll sooner than later know how much of Godot the refineries are.

  • Whodunnit

    Whodunnit

    The sheer quantum of arms and drugs, with a combined duty value put at N13.9 billion, will make you break out in cold sweat!

    Thank God the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) intercepted the lethal armada.  What might have been, had the deathly cargo made it through the ports?  Ha!  And here, NCS has earned fulsome praise.  More of that!

    Again, the chilling details: 844 units of rifles, 1222, 500 pieces of live ammunition, with a cocktail of dangerous drugs — codeine-laden cough syrups, Tramadol and other stimulants that simply jade your mind, pushing you to lethal derring-do, as you went after manic harvesting of lives and limbs!

    Pray, what would it gain anyone to “lose” — or rather, pay — N13.9 billion (a princely sum in any currency) just to inflict death, tears and woes on fellow citizens?  Isn’t that some lunatic ensemble?  But again, that’s the illogic with terrorism: that penchant to kill first, think later.

    But that seized assorted cargo shows both the anatomy and scaffolding of terrorist operations.  First, is the wanton arms, procured from anywhere.  That’s wayward arms pushed into reckless hands.

    Then, the drugs — to impair the mind, cripple the brain and set the hands on a reckless, lethal, fatal mission. 

    Read Also: 6 documentaries on Showmax that are making headlines

    With the two “missions accomplished”, a brazen killing field is all but assured!  But again, thank God that NCS, on July 1, checkmated the importers and impounded the arms and drugs at the Onne Port, in Rivers State.  More of that intelligence network, even in foreign ports, that pulled of that remarkable seizure.

    Still, whodunnit?

    That’s the eager question in everyone’s lips.  As a follow-up, it’s good to hear that the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) has taken possession of the arms; and pledged to fully document them, prelude to destroying the entire arsenal.

    We expect the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to do the needful, as dictated by law, on the seized hard drug components.

    Still, the destruction of arms and drugs won’t achieve much without a credible answer to that all-important question: whodunnit?

    The lead of three arrests, linked to the importers, is good.  The authorities should press that lead before it turns cold.  That massive seizure would only make a meaning if it leads to big-time terrorism sponsors and financiers.  Jail awaits them prompt and fast. 

    That’s why a swift investigation is called for.  The earlier these felons are behind bars, the earlier the rest of us will sleep easy.

  • Malaria: A public health concern that must be taken seriously

    Malaria: A public health concern that must be taken seriously

    SIR: Malaria is a life-threatening disease that continues to ravage Nigeria, accounting for a significant proportion of global cases and deaths. As a tropical country, Nigeria is prone to malaria transmission by the female Anopheles mosquito. Alarmingly, 76% of Nigeria’s population is at risk of malaria due to high transmission areas. In 2019, Nigeria accounted for 27% of global malaria cases and 24% of deaths, according to the World Malaria Report, 2020.

    In 2021, around 247 million cases of malaria were reported worldwide and about 619,000 people died. Four African countries accounted for just over half of all malaria deaths worldwide: Nigeria (31.3%), the Democratic Republic of the Congo (12.6%), Tanzania (4.1%) and Niger (3.9%).

    The disease has far-reaching negative effects on society and the economy. These include high morbidity and mortality, as the disease is a leading cause of illness and death in Nigeria, particularly among children under five and pregnant women.

    Malaria imposes a significant economic burden on households, communities, and the nation, with costs including healthcare expenses, lost productivity, and reduced economic activity. Repeated episodes of malaria lead to absenteeism, poor academic performance, and increased dropout rates among children.

    Among other negative effects, malaria increases the risk of anaemia and malnutrition, particularly among vulnerable populations like pregnant women and children.

    Read Also: Malaria: FG steps up elimination drive with advisory board, ministerial taskforce

    Now that the rains are here, malaria cases are on the rise, and mosquitoes are building resistance to some drugs. Without mincing words, some people treat malaria all-round the year.

    It is imperative for the government at all tiers and citizens to take the fight against malaria seriously. While the government has a major role to play, the fight against malaria requires collective efforts. Citizens must implement indoor residual spraying and environmental management strategies to eliminate mosquito breeding sites.

    The government must increase access to insecticide-treated bed nets, which is a proved and effective prevention method and improve access to diagnosis and treatment by enhancing healthcare infrastructure, training healthcare workers, and increasing access to accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

    Government must integrate malaria control into primary healthcare services to enhance early detection and treatment even as it conducts public awareness campaigns to educate Nigerians on malaria prevention, symptoms, and treatment. The government must invest in research and development of new malaria control tools, such as vaccines and drugs and collaborate with international partners to leverage resources, expertise, and funding to support malaria control efforts. Health systems must be strengthened to ensure effective delivery of malaria control interventions.

    The government must prioritize the fight against malaria, as the disease has devastating effects on the society and economy.  By prioritizing the fight against malaria, Nigeria can reduce the burden of the disease and improve the health and well-being of its citizens.

    The government and citizens must unite to combat malaria. We owe it to ourselves, our children, and our nation to take action against this deadly disease. Malaria is a major public health concern in Nigeria and it must be treated as such, but together, we can defeat it. Let us work together to prevent avoidable deaths and enhance a healthy Nigeria.

    The time to act is now. Let us join forces to eliminate malaria in Nigeria.

    • Dayo DaSilva dsv123ng@yahoo.com
  • Mass-kidnapping: Our military is incapacitated

    Mass-kidnapping: Our military is incapacitated

    SIR: What is happening in Nigeria is that terrorists, bandits, insurgents, can easily kidnap scores, or hundreds of people at a go, move them to different locations within the state or in the neighbouring state, hold them as hostages for weeks or months during which negotiations would go on, collect ransom (often in huge amount of money, foodstuff, new motorcycles, etc.), before releasing the hostages in batches, and may decide to keep the women or school girls as wives or sex slaves, before or after ransom payment.

    The military and the rest of the security forces remain completely helpless to the situation, other than the often repeated worn-out excuse like:  “We have identified their location, but you know we have to be very careful to avoid any harm to the hostages”. Meaning: There is nothing we can do about it. The president would issue strong directive to the military to rescue the hostages. It all ends there, till next time again. And situation keeps deteriorating rapidly.

    Since the kidnap of over 200 Chibok secondary school girls in April 2014,  through the abduction of about 300 school boys in Katsina State few years ago, to the recent March 2024 abduction of about 300 primary and secondary school pupils (boys and girls) in Kaduna State, there have been more than 12 such mass-hostage situations. And in all of them, the military and other security forces had practically no solution to offer. It is like everyone comes into office, enjoy their time and go, accepting there is nothing they can do about the situation.

    In 1992, some Chechen insurgents/terrorists hijacked a Russian passenger train from neighbouring Tajikistan, and diverted it to head to Chechnya. That was during the period of Chechnya resistance insurgency war against Russian authority. The hijackers wired the train with explosives and threatened to blow it up with the passengers if Russian forces intervened.

    Read Also; On the resurgence of mass kidnapping

    Russia quickly sent Special Forces teams to strategic locations along the rail route. The troops were in protective gear with specially equipped medical teams. Then a crop-dusting, low-flying aircraft (the type used to spray herbicides on large farm lands), swooped on the train and sprayed it with tear-gas smoke in repeated runs. The train soon grounded to a stop and the nearby troops swooped on them. None of the hijackers could escape. The specially equipped medical teams resuscitated hostages whose medical conditions predisposed them to respiratory problems arising from tear-gas effect.

    Over 400 hostages were rescued in that operation. About three of them reportedly died in the hospital afterwards. That form of mass-hostage situation which was the first of its type in Russian experience, never repeated anywhere throughout the years of Chechnya insurgency/resistance war with Russia in the 1990s. There are different other approaches in other case studies, including but not limited to air-sprayed defoliage agent that would drop down every foliage/leafs from the vegetation and lay it bare for aerial surveillance.

    This writer is a retired military officer trained in counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations. Well studied landmark terror incidents around the world. The Nigerian situation which is terribly record-breaking has effective solution, if we are serious about it. It is like those in position of authority are either too squeamish to take the required firm action or they are not sufficiently worried about the situation. Nobody can do it for us. It is entirely our problem.

    • Azubike Nass, Enugu.
  • Attacks on PBAT’s northern appointees

    Attacks on PBAT’s northern appointees

    SIR: Today, we are witnessing incessant attacks and smear campaign against political office holders of northern extraction serving under the Tinubu administration by some busybodies and enemies of the North and Nigeria as a whole.

    The ongoing campaign of calumny against our leaders is unwarranted, malicious, insidious and baseless, and therefore has to be stopped. Insults and character assassination have no place in the cultured north.

    The recent uncharitable deployment of insulting words against respectable northern leaders by the former national vice chairman, Northwest of APC, Salihu Lukman, is utterly disgusting. What he said against the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu is a blatant lie. Honest and sincere Nigerians know who Nuhu Ribadu is, his character, antecedents and his current performance as a National Security Adviser.

    So, also, our formidable vice president, Kashim Shettima and all our ministers and aides serving this government.

    We expect people like Salihu Lukman would study the scorecards of those people before launching his unprovoked assault.

     There is a difference between being a regional champion and being a mischief maker. The latter is trying unsuccessfully to create disharmony between the president and the vice president. When this tactic didn’t work, they came up with another narrative -northern marginalization. Now they have started raining abuses on their fellow northerners serving the government. They even claim that the North is being short-changed under this government.

    The same President   Bola Ahmed Tinubu that has  given the north the critical portfolios of education, defence, agriculture, health, police affairs, in addition to key offices such as  Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), the National Security Adviser, NSA among others?

    Look at the number of gigantic infrastructural projects the Tinubu administration is executing across the north. These range from roads, housing, schools, agriculture, etc. These are apart from nationwide projects which every Nigerian is entitled to benefit.

    It is interesting that now it is not the easterners playing marginalizing card but the north that just relinquished power one year ago. Little wonder our brothers from the South label us as people with born-to-rule mentality.

    It is high time the political manipulators understand that their old fashioned divisive politics is no longer effective in extracting personal favour. The common man now is conscious and cannot be bamboozled by politics of parochialism. Northern political elites know their game of deception is over because they had all the opportunity in the world, yet they didn’t use it. They enriched themselves and their families, sent their children abroad for education, and left behind the children of the poor without even food.

    • Comrade Bishir Dauda Sabuwar, Unguwa Katsina.
  • Atiku as an endangered specie

    Atiku as an endangered specie

    Sam Omatseye’s article, brimming with vitriol and sanctimonious posturing, demands a rebuttal rooted in truth and literary eloquence. Omatseye, in his misguided zeal to malign Atiku Abubakar, reveals more about his own biases and mercenary penmanship than about the man he seeks to discredit. It is time to set the record straight and highlight the strengths of Atiku Abubakar, a statesman and an endangered species whose vision and dedication to Nigeria’s unity and progress far surpass the myopic self-interest Omatseye attributes to him.

    The Chess Player and the Strategist

    Omatseye derides Atiku for seeing himself as a chess player, implying a lack of humility. Yet, in the intricate game of politics, the ability to strategize and anticipate moves is paramount. Atiku’s approach is not one of vanity, but of calculated foresight and a deep understanding of Nigeria’s complex socio-political landscape. Unlike the unnamed politician, presumably Bola Tinubu, who flaunted his power with a self-deprecating quip, Atiku’s humility lies in his persistent efforts to build bridges across Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and religious divides.

    Visits and Symbolism: A Misguided Allegory

    Omatseye’s allegorical comparisons of Atiku’s visits to historical betrayals and sinister handshakes are a testament to his propensity for hyperbole. The handshake between Atiku and Buhari is not a clandestine plot but a public display of his commitment to national unity. Atiku’s visits are not sneaky or deceitful, like Odysseus returning in disguise, but open gestures of reconciliation and dialogue.

    Misplaced Criticism of Political Alliances

    Omatseye’s insinuation that Atiku’s alliances are opportunistic ignores the political realities of Nigeria. Politics, by its very nature, involves the forging of alliances (and Omatseye needs to be reminded of alliances of his paymaster that led to the formation of the APC). Atiku’s partnership with figures like Nasir el-Rufai is not a sign of duplicity, but a pragmatic effort to unite various factions for the greater good. The allegation that Atiku exploits ethnic sentiments is ironic coming from a Tinubu apologist, considering Tinubu’s notorious manipulation of ethnic and regional loyalties to consolidate power.

    The North and Atiku’s Legacy

    The critique that Atiku only remembers the north when seeking votes is baseless. Atiku’s investments in manufacturing, agriculture, banking, education, healthcare, and infrastructure, particularly in the north, are well-documented. The American University of Nigeria, founded by Atiku, stands as a testament to his philantrophy and commitment to providing quality education and fostering development in the region. In contrast, Tinubu’s legacy in Lagos, marred by allegations of corruption and cronyism, offers little to commend.

    Poverty and Development: A Flawed Narrative

    Omatseye’s selective presentation of poverty statistics in the north is a disingenuous attempt to lay the blame at Atiku’s feet. Poverty in the region is a multifaceted issue exacerbated by years of neglect by successive governments. Atiku’s efforts, though significant, cannot single-handedly rectify decades of systemic challenges. Moreover, Omatseye conveniently overlooks the socio-economic disparities that persist in Lagos, Tinubu’s stronghold, despite his years of governance.

    Intellectual Posturing and Misappropriation

    Omatseye’s invocation of intellectual heavyweights like Michel Foucault and Zadie Smith to critique Atiku’s appeal to northern sentiments is misplaced. Foucault’s exploration of power dynamics and Smith’s discourse on identity could equally be applied to critique Tinubu’s divisive politics. Atiku’s vision, in contrast, seeks to transcend prefabricated identities and foster a cohesive national identity.

    A Dangerous Politician or a Visionary Leader?

    Labeling Atiku as the most dangerous politician, second only to Peter Obi, is a gross mischaracterization. Atiku’s political career is marked by his advocacy for restructuring Nigeria, promoting decentralization, and empowering local governments. His vision for Nigeria is one of inclusive growth and sustainable development, a stark contrast to the status quo of political patronage and centralization championed by Tinubu.

    In conclusion, Sam Omatseye’s article is a tapestry of half-truths and unfounded allegations woven together with the thread of bias. Atiku Abubakar’s strengths lie in his strategic acumen, his commitment to national unity, and his tangible contributions to Nigeria’s development. Omatseye’s diatribe, far from discrediting Atiku, exposes the hollowness of his own arguments and the mercenary nature of his pen. It is time for Nigerians to see through the smokescreen of political propaganda and recognize the genuine leadership and vision that Atiku Abubakar offers. As Ralph Waldo Emerson aptly said, “A great man is always willing to be little,” and it is in this spirit of humble service that Atiku seeks to lead Nigeria to a brighter future.

    Ibe is a Media Adviser to Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President of Nigeria (1999-2007) and Presidential candidate of the PDP (2023).

  • ONSA: One year after

    ONSA: One year after

    By Abdulrahman Usman Leme

    Beyond being the first non-military officer to serve as Nigeria’s National Security Adviser since the return to democracy in 1999, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu’s trail of triumphs in tackling the security compromises he inherited has set him apart. It’s easy to see how his background as a specialized police officer, lawyer, and fearless investigator and prosecutor of financial crimes has eased him into the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) in just one year in charge.

    Ribadu took charge at a time when the kidnapping economy, terrorist financing, and money laundering underscored the criminal enterprises built by terrorists, kidnappers, and bandits who’ve held the nation ransom. As the founding chief executive of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), he understands that to get to the root of our security compromises, we must follow the money trail linked to these crimes against the state. This approach isn’t surprising, coming from a game-changer who, under his watch at the EFCC, recorded over 200 criminal convictions, making it the most respected anti-corruption agency in Nigeria’s history and a model for many governments around the world.

    Delivering a public lecture at the Combined Convocation Ceremony of Usmanu Dan Fodiyo University, Sokoto, in April, Ribadu explained the doctrine that has defined his approach to solving the nation’s multifaceted security crisis. He argued that the way forward is unorthodox. The solution involves implementing a strategy that merges military, political, and socio-economic initiatives, emphasizing the need for cross-border cooperation, youth empowerment, and the reinforcement of local institutions. Achieving this requires inclusive dialogue, preventive measures, and regional support to ensure security and stability.

    This doctrine has driven Ribadu’s engagements with regional and community stakeholders. For example, in the Niger Delta region, it has helped increase crude oil production by as much as 500,000 barrels per day. In the Southeast, more than 40 police stations destroyed by criminals in recent years have been rebuilt and reactivated. Additionally, the sit-at-home order by secessionist elements is now at its weakest, regularly ignored by residents who were once held hostage by it.

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    Ribadu has ensured improved operations through intelligence gathering and sharing, leading to targeted actions that have resulted in the elimination of key bandit leaders—the most in one year since the banditry began. In the Northwest, previously elusive bandit leaders have been decimated, with many others arrested. Abubakar Mainok, Haruna Isiya Boderi, and Kachallah Damina are among the ISWAP kingpins neutralized in clearance operations to secure the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway. In the North-central region, the intensity of farmer-herder clashes has considerably reduced. The Northeast, which has long endured the ravages of terror, is now seeing not only stability but also efforts towards reconstruction and rehabilitation to restore its former glory.

    Since Ribadu assumed office in June 2023, the government has successfully secured the release of more than 4,600 hostages, neutralized over 9,000 terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers, and arrested more than 7,000 others. Large quantities of assorted weapons and ammunition have also been recovered. Some of the rescued individuals had spent as much as three years in captivity and had long given up hope of freedom. Ribadu has ensured swift rescue missions for abducted children and citizens. The rapid responses to rescue operations, from the freeing of the Kuriga schoolchildren to the release of students abducted from the Federal University of Gusau, and the recent rescue of Kogi students coordinated by ONSA, will go down in history as defining moments of Ribadu’s first year as NSA.

    To neutralize the economic threats to Nigeria’s sovereignty, Ribadu participated in operations to enforce action against the culprits, particularly Binance, a serial offender in several countries, in accordance with the nation’s laws. Pursuing offenders with links to trans-border terrorism is a familiar terrain for him and is aided by his distinguished international network and reputation. Ribadu has utilized his international networks to track trans-border terrorists and their financiers.

    The NSA has fostered collaborations both domestically and internationally. He has ensured seamless coordination within Nigeria’s armed forces. In 2023, ONSA hosted the second United Kingdom–Nigeria Security and Defence Partnership (SDP) Dialogue, demonstrating a commitment to strengthening partnerships to address mutual security concerns. ONSA has also held a Counter-Terrorism Summit in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Counter-Terrorism, which saw over 400 foreign delegates, including two serving presidents, in Nigeria. In March, Ribadu convened a meeting with northern governors and security chiefs aimed at enhancing cooperation in combating insecurity in the region. One significant outcome of this meeting was a consensus on the need to shift focus from merely holding ground to strategically influencing perceptions and gaining the trust of local populations in the fight against insecurity.

    Ribadu’s non-kinetic strategies have played a crucial role in preventing farmer-herder clashes, with significant results evident in states like Kaduna, Taraba, Adamawa, Nasarawa, Sokoto, and Plateau—except for a few isolated incidents in Plateau State. These states, which have experienced some of the worst communal clashes in the past decade, have seen marked improvements and greater stability over the past year. The previously unaddressed security issues have given rise to numerous Middle Belt activists who have allied with their southern counterparts to single out certain northern demographics as the masterminds of their insecurity.

     His unique interventions in matters of national importance are noteworthy due to his ability to strike deals and honour them, which helps prevent issues from escalating into national crises. Reviewing Ribadu’s first year in office as NSA would be incomplete without highlighting his focus on reforming the Nigeria Police Force (NPF). Much has been written and said about the anomaly of a militarized shift in internal security in Nigeria, with the Armed Forces permanently present and actively operating in virtually every state. Improving the capacity of the police has since become an ongoing imperative, and there have been varying attempts over the years to accomplish this, with mixed results.

    Ribadu has now put this high up on his agenda, drawing on his 25-year career in the Force. In 2023, the Office of the NSA entered a partnership with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the German Embassy in Nigeria for the rollout of a comprehensive police reform program that will support the work of the Special Presidential Committee on Police Reform. Ribadu has prioritized inter-agency coordination and collaboration across a diverse group of law enforcement personnel—often across borders—to achieve success in his pursuit of fraudsters and cybercriminals.

    Ribadu acknowledges that law enforcement agencies cannot hope to receive much credit for the criminality they quietly foil. He recently described his role as NSA as “a demanding job that requires dexterity, hard work, and consensus-building across security and political structures.” In the 12 months since his historic appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, he has demonstrated a solid understanding of what is expected and has lived up to the onerous responsibilities of one of the most critical public sector assignments in the country.

     While we have not yet reached our ultimate goal in terms of national security, the progress made thus far under Ribadu’s leadership at ONSA is promising. His holistic and pragmatic approach, which complements military efforts through enhanced coordination and intelligence sharing, indicates a committed effort towards restoring order and security. These steps indicate a thoughtful and effective strategy aimed at comprehensively addressing our security challenges. This aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to supporting the armed forces and encouraging inter-agency coordination in combating terrorism, criminality, and all forms of terror, ensuring the nation’s lasting stability.

    •Leme has extensive experience in strategic development, policy formulation, and a background in business administration and strategic human resource management. He writes from Abuja.