The Nation Newspaper

Category: Commentaries

  • Clark talks the talk

    Clark talks the talk

    Ijaw leader, Chief Edwin Clark, is talking the talk of peace.  But look closely, he’s walking the walk of war. 

    That’s what you do when you jump, one-sided and with both feet, into a fray; yet sound dovish to play on emotions, only because your dog in the fight is being whipped; or because he’s whipping himself.

    That’s the sad and stark story of Governor Siminilayi Fubara of Rivers State.  He gets fazed by each Wike manoeuvre, badly panics and whips himself. 

    Why does Fubara think he can out-talk Wike in trash-talking to browbeat an adversary, an act in which Wike is near-supreme master? 

    Why does Fubara think he can beat Wike to his own game, when all he has done, doing the Wike encore, is heighten tension in Rivers, while Wike preens over his Abuja “projects”, to divert attention?

    Why can’t Clark, for once, tell Fubara to do sober introspection, talk less, think more, and stop swallowing Wike’s cynical baits?

    Clark can’t because, ab initio, he butted in as uncritical Wike supporter — the Ijaw czar as glorified choirboy of Fubara’s cause, just because Fubara is Ijaw and Wike is not. 

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    Was Clark even there when Wike was clearing the coast for Fubara, before their sweet song turned nasty innuendo?

    After the Abuja presidential accord, all Clark did was shoot down that accord’s delicate balancing.  He wailed that Fubara was cheated, though he was governor.  He stopped just short of insinuating that the president helped Wike, over his estranged godson, simply because Wike helped the president to win Rivers.

    That — un-elderly — radicalism only goaded Fubara to reckless acts — for what do you call pulling down the Rivers Assembly building, in full public glare?

    With Fubara now spending money un-appropriated by the legislature — thus gravely undermining himself should impeachment push come to a shove — Clark just chanced on a mealy-mouthed appeal to APC and PDP national chairs against allegedly aiding and abetting Wike?  The old man can certainly do better!

    As for Wike, who cares if his goose is cooked?  He has made too much racket in the public space!  So, if his godson now dares to demystify him, as Wike had also demystified his own godfathers, who cares?

    Still, should Wike and Fubara fight to finish and set Rivers on fire, elders like Chief Clark would bear part of the blame.  Which  is why he must prevail on Fubara to use his head.

    Former President Goodluck Jonathan’s counsel is more like it: in politics you win some, you lose some — and he’s as Ijaw as Clark and Fubara, isn’t he?  In a crisis, zero-sum-game peaks in nothing but mutually assured destruction (MAD).

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Enlisting communities in fight against illicit drugs

    Enlisting communities in fight against illicit drugs

    Sir: The theme for this year’s International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, as announced by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), succinctly captures the essence of what ought to be our collective struggle: “The evidence is clear; invest in prevention.” This theme resonates deeply with the foundational principle that prevention has always been and remains far superior to cure.

    Drug abuse, the spectre haunting our communities, knows no bounds of age, gender, or economic standing. It is an equal opportunity destroyer, lurking in the shadows, waiting to ensnare the unsuspecting and vulnerable. Among the most susceptible are our adolescents and young adults, teetering on the brink of experimentation, navigating the tumultuous waters of peer influence and societal pressures. Their innate curiosity and quest for identity make them prime targets for the siren call of substance abuse.

    This is why it is imperative that we direct our prevention efforts with laser-like precision towards these demographics, equipping them with the armour of knowledge and resilience to navigate the terrain of adolescence unscathed.

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    The landscape of youth culture today is a labyrinth of influences, both positive and perilous. From social media platforms to peer circles, the barrage of messages extolling the virtues of substance use often outweighs the voice of reason. In this battleground of ideologies, prevention programs would offer a beacon of hope that illuminates the path towards informed decision-making and healthy choices. The particular reason for this is that by empowering adolescents and young adults with a good understanding of the physiological and psychological ramifications of drug abuse, we arm them with the tools needed to resist the allure of experimentation.

    Communities poised on the frontlines of the battle against drug abuse must orchestrate strategic initiatives tailored to safeguarding their most vulnerable members, particularly adolescents and young adults. One potent avenue is the organization of mini-lectures, a collaborative effort uniting educators, health workers, and law enforcement agencies such as the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). These sessions should serve as vital platforms for disseminating crucial information about the perils of substance abuse, tapping into the expertise of diverse stakeholders to deliver comprehensive insights.

    The efficacy of drug abuse prevention programs (DAPPs) cannot be overstated because they are rooted in scientific research and evidence-based practices. These programs serve as bastions of knowledge and resilience against the tide of peer pressure and societal influences. They arm individuals with the tools needed to navigate the complexities of life, empowering them to make informed decisions and resist the allure of substance abuse.

    Policymakers in education can also add DAPP modules to the curriculum to equip students with the knowledge and skills to navigate life’s challenges. Students’ participation in anti-drug abuse clubs such as the Drug Free Clubs in schools and tertiary institutions should also be encouraged by parents and teachers alike. The clubs and groups should be fully equipped with knowledge about drug use and how to discourage it through strategic preventive programmes.

     Prevention programmes must be evidence-based and should leverage local resources, mobilize volunteers, and disseminate information through events, campaigns, and informative materials. Facilitators must also be meticulously trained to avoid misinformation and other improper conduct that can distort prevention efforts.

    In the end, it is through such collaborative endeavours that we can forge a resilient network of support and education, one capable of significantly reducing drug abuse and fostering a healthier environment for all. As the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking looms large, let us heed the clarion call to invest in prevention, for the evidence is indeed clear: our future depends on it.

    •Mahmud Isa Yola, Abuja.

  • Is electricity industry ready for NBET’s exit?

    Is electricity industry ready for NBET’s exit?

    Sir: The Nigerian electricity landscape has been undergoing significant transformations in alignment with the country’s goal of promoting a competitive national electricity market. The EPSRA 2005, now repealed by the Electricity Act (EA) 2023, made provisions for the systems and processes to be set up to ensure the validity of the electricity sector’s pre and post-privatization activities. One of the post-privatization requirements was the establishment of the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Company (NBET).

    NBET is the bulk buyer of power generated and fed into the national grid by Generation Companies (GenCos) through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). The Power Purchase Agreement executed between GenCos and NBET provides guidelines that govern transactions between GenCos and NBET. NBET operates as the wholesaler of power purchased from GenCos to Distribution Companies (DisCos) through a vesting contract. Vesting contracts govern transactional relationships between DisCos and NBET. Consequently, NBET acts as a middleman whose primary function revolves around ensuring the stability and financial viability of the electricity market by guaranteeing payments to GenCos, thereby sustaining electricity generation and supply.

    As the Nigerian electricity market progresses to the next market stage, NBET’s role is under scrutiny, particularly regarding its long-term sustainability and relevance. Given NBET’s crucial responsibility over the years, is the NESI ripe for NBET’s exit from the market? Can the NESI succeed without NBET’s operations in its market design?

    The debate surrounding NBET’s future revolves around its effectiveness in fulfilling its intended role within NESI. Advocates for NBET’s exit argue that the company has failed to act as a creditworthy off-taker, inhibiting market dynamism and hindering the realisation of economic benefits envisaged under the PPAs. They contend that removing NBET from the equation would enable stakeholders to engage more freely, promoting innovation, competition and efficiency within the market. Additionally, they stress the importance of developing a comprehensive strategic plan to facilitate a seamless transition to a more competitive market structure. Therefore, extending NBET’s license is deemed unnecessary in light of these considerations.

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    Conversely, opponents of NBET’s exit caution against premature dissolution, citing the company’s pivotal role in mitigating payment risks for DisCos. They argue that transferring these risks to GenCos could destabilise the market and undermine investor confidence. Furthermore, they emphasise NBET’s contribution to market stability and investor assurance, highlighting the need to address underlying structural issues before contemplating its exit. In addition, NBET’s presence as a reliable off-taker, backed by the federal government, instils confidence in investors to engage in the power sector. Extending NBET’s license ensures the sustained confidence of investors and enhances sector sustainability.

    The readiness of NESI for NBET’s exit depends on various factors, including considerations regarding the emergence of the state electricity market, regulatory frameworks, infrastructure, and the capacity of market participants. A well-planned transition implementation strategy is imperative to mitigate potential risks and uncertainties associated with NBET’s exit. This strategy should address existing contractual gaps, resolve institutional misalignments, and build the capacity of market participants to operate efficiently in a post-NBET environment. NBET and NERC must establish a clear and well-thought-out mechanism for winding up the bulk traders’ activities.

    With the emergence of the state electricity market introduced by the Electricity Act of 2023, states are boldly developing their own electricity market. Another crucial question emerges: Should states incorporate the NBET market design in setting up their state electricity? The peculiarities of each state need to be considered. The suitability of this choice depends on each state’s unique circumstances and should emphasise the need for tailored approaches to electricity market development or design.

    While the prospect of NBET’s exit presents challenges and opportunities for NESI, careful deliberation and strategic planning are essential to navigate this transition successfully. A collaborative approach with industry stakeholders is crucial to ensure Nigeria’s electricity sector’s seamless and sustainable evolution towards a more competitive and resilient future

    •Ani Nkem Nnenne Esq.

    nkemani2011@yahoo.com

  • Subsidy on religious pilgrimage?

    Subsidy on religious pilgrimage?

    Sir: Recently, Vice President Kashim Shettima confirmed that the President Tinubu led government has approved a staggering N90 billion as subsidy for the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage. At a time when Nigerians are still grappling with the economic ripple effects of the removal of fuel subsidy?  This move is bunkers and there is no rationale whatsoever behind such a decision!

    For a country facing numerous challenges, allocating N90 billion to subsidize a religious pilgrimage is inexcusable. This money earmarked for the subsidy could be better utilized to address other pressing issues that abound at this time! For crying out loud, we have been going back and forth on salary increase for workers to no end, but at the speed of light, we blow N90 billion on some religious tourism? And to add insult to injury, funds are still going to be allocated for Christian pilgrimage and maybe for traditionalists! It’s outrageous!

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    The discussion about the government completely disengaging from funding religious pilgrimages is not new.  Subsidizing pilgrimages provides no tangible benefits whatsoever to the economy or the country’s well-being. Religion is a deeply personal matter and should be financed privately by those who choose to undertake such voyages. The government’s involvement in subsidizing religious activities amounts to misallocating scarce resources and stands condemned.

    Again, at this time, the need for a more judicious allocation of resources cannot be overstated. With N90 billion, the government could make significant strides in several critical areas. It’s insane that we boost other countries’ economies with religious tourism at the expense of ours!

    It’s time to stop putting unnecessary financial burden on the economy.

    Just as the subsidies on fuel and electricity were deemed unsustainable and detrimental to our long-term economic growth, the same rationale should apply to subsidies on religious pilgrimages. Governments at all levels, both state and federal, must prioritize fiscal responsibility at this time more than ever, by phasing out subsidies for religious pilgrimages.

    •Chiechefulam Ikebuiro

    chiechefulamikebuiro@gmail.com

  • Ekiti: Ara-Ikole road and beauty of continuity

    Ekiti: Ara-Ikole road and beauty of continuity

    • By Olusegun Adetunji

    Sir: When the news broke that Governor Abiodun Oyebanji would beam his search light on Ikole-Ara road, I took it with the same pinch of salt because the road has remained unattended to since 1963. But to my surprise, the governor didn’t only walk the talk but took a pragmatic step to convince us that he meant business with full mobilization of contractors to the site.

    Between 2007 and 2010 when Engineer Segun Oni was at the helm of affairs, he was the only governor who showed interest in constructing the road and he did begin from Ikole and worked on it up until he was unceremoniously sent packing from office. Based on the general belief that government is a continuum, we assumed that the successive administrations of former governors Kayode Fayemi and Ayo Fayose would continue from where Oni’s administration stopped but we waited in vain. When Governor Oyebanji came on board, we didn’t press much button because we had almost lost hope but he surprised us by giving it a priority. Thank to our forward-looking king, Oba Adebayo Fatoba, who championed the course and kept assuring us that BAO would do it.  

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    Since the job on the road began, people of Ekiti, Akoko part of Ondo, Kogi and even Kwara have been in high ecstasy because of the strategic importance of the road. With the Ikole-Ara-Isinbode-Uro-Irun road in place, the economic activities in the three states would pick up because the road links the three states. In those days when the road was still fair to middling, it was a sure bet for commuters and transporters who follow the route to Abuja. Besides, farming is the mainstay of scores of towns and villages along the corridors and this will give them ample opportunities to bring their farm products out of the farm to the market.

    In all these, what we have learnt is that Oyebanji’s background as a home-grown politician has so far shaped his approach to governance. He has used the last one year to demonstrate to us that he is keen about the welfare of the people. With this road in place, we can be sure the communities will be livelier, abandoned markets in various communities would be resuscitated, artisans will move to towns.

    I want to appeal to members of the various political parties in Ekiti to always see the government as one as BAO has consistently demonstrated. Whether you are in the All Progressives Congress or Peoples Democratic Party, you must see the entire Ekiti as one and yours to govern, with little or no discrimination.

    •Olusegun Adetunji

    Ara-Ekiti, Ikole Local Government,

    Ekiti State.

  • Inflation and workers’ demand for fair wage

    Inflation and workers’ demand for fair wage

    • By Ezinwanne Onwuka

    Sir: Nigeria finds itself at a critical juncture. The spectre of rampant inflation, currently hovering around a staggering 33.69 per cent, paints a bleak picture of economic stability. The current inflation reality of Nigerians is the more you look, the less you see. People are getting poorer every day, and the middle-class line is thinning.

     Nigerians are spending more on food, not because we are eating more, but because it now costs more. For instance, the cost of cooking a pot of jollof rice jumped to N16,955—nearly N17,000—at the end of the first quarter for a family of four from N13,106 in October 2023. This report by SB Morgen Intelligence shows that the relentless surge of inflation has become more than just a statistic; it is a pervasive reality affecting the livelihoods of millions. Everyday essentials are becoming luxuries, and millions of Nigerians struggle to put food on the table.

     At the heart of this crisis lies the pressing need to address the widening gap between wages and the cost of living. For the average Nigerian worker, the struggle to make ends meet has become an everyday battle. Inflation has driven up the prices of food items, housing, transportation, healthcare, and education, placing a heavy burden on household budgets. As basic necessities become increasingly unaffordable, the current minimum wage of N30,000 per month falls woefully short of providing a decent standard of living for workers and their families, forcing many into a cycle of poverty and deprivation.

     In response, the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, has championed a bold proposal—a substantial increase in the national minimum wage. Their proposed minimum wage of N615,000, while seemingly drastic, is a necessary reflection of the economic realities of inflation.

     The rationale behind the NLC’s demand is straightforward. The union argues that a significantly increased minimum wage would restore purchasing power to Nigerian workers and inject much-needed stimulus into the domestic economy. I dare say that the NLC’s demand is not only justified but also essential. The current minimum wage, set in 2019, has been rendered almost meaningless by the relentless surge in inflation. With basic necessities like food and transportation experiencing exponential price increases, the extant national minimum wage fails to provide workers with a basic standard of living.

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    The minimum wage debate in Nigeria presents a classic economic policy dilemma. While the NLC’s call for a wage raise is undeniably compelling, a sharp rise in the minimum wage could translate into job losses and fuel inflationary pressures further, creating a self-perpetuating cycle that ultimately hurts workers the most. The Nigerian government, therefore, faces a critical decision regarding the minimum wage as a poorly calibrated minimum wage increase could have unintended consequences, jeopardising the very workers it aims to help. Navigating this complex situation requires a measured and well-considered approach.

     First, the ongoing tripartite dialogue involving the government, the NLC, and representatives of the private sector is paramount. This dialogue should not be a meeting where the parties converge to trade words with one another and apportion blame for the current inflationary spiral as is common with such dialogues, but should be a platform for the parties to reach a consensus on a revised minimum wage. The new minimum wage, whatever would be agreed on, should reflect a realistic assessment of the cost of living.

    Additionally, the government must prioritise sound economic policies that deal with the root causes of inflationary pressures. Efforts to curb inflation must go beyond short-term fixes and address structural issues such as fiscal mismanagement, exchange rate fluctuations, and poor monetary policies.

     But until the drivers of inflation are tamed, the federal government cannot afford to be deaf to the NLC’s demands. The current situation is unsustainable and needs decisive action. A dignified minimum wage is not a handout; it is a fair recognition of the value of Nigerian workers, who are, by the way, the backbone of the country’s economy. Let us not forget that behind the numbers are real people: parents struggling to feed their children, and families facing impossible choices. Hence, it is time to bridge the gap between the rising cost of living and stagnant wages.

    •Ezinwanne Onwuka,

    ezinwanne.dominion@gmail.com.

  • Yobe varsity irregularities: Open letter to Governor Buni

    Yobe varsity irregularities: Open letter to Governor Buni

    Sir: I bring to your attention the concerning situation at Yobe State University where various violations of the university’s regulations are taking place. One of the major issues that require your immediate attention is the tenure of the university registrar, Dr. Kalli Gazali. It has come to light that Dr. Gazali has continued to occupy the office despite retiring in September 2023 after serving for 35 years. This contravenes the university (Miscellaneous) Act 2012 on the retirement of non-academic staff. The violation of such regulations governing the university raises serious questions about the adherence to established procedures and laws.

    Furthermore, six months ago, an interview was conducted for the position of Bursar at the university. However, despite the passage of time, the results of this interview have not been announced. This delay has created a sense of uncertainty and unease among the candidates and the university community. Subsequently, it has come to our attention that another interview is being called, allegedly to favour a candidate said to be related to you. This development is viewed as a clear violation of the university’s laws and regulations designed to ensure a fair and transparent selection process based on merit and competence.

    This, should it happen, will be a clear violation of the oath of office and the constitution, which you swore to uphold.

    Already, the charge of favouritism can be seen from the advert for the post. In the first advert, the qualification stated is that the candidate for the post must: ‘…Be a practicing Deputy Bursar with at least one-year minimum experience on the post in a recognized university….’

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    In the second advert, that criterion was completely deleted because the rumoured anointed candidate has not been a deputy bursar in a recognized university but is presently a substantive bursar. The question is: why will a substantive bursar be interested in becoming a bursar in another institution?

    Again, under the experience in the first advert, the criteria are: ‘candidate must have a minimum of fourteen (14) years of prudent university financial management and administrative experience,’ whereas in the second advert, the word ‘university’ was removed to read 14 years of prudent financial management because the said anointed candidate did not possess 14 years of university experience.

    The university’s laws and regulations are in place to uphold the integrity of the institution and ensure that all appointments are made fairly, transparently, and without bias. The actions taken so far appear to be in contravention of these laws, undermining the trust and confidence of the university community and the public at large.

    I call on you to investigate the delay, ensure transparency, prevent nepotism, and announce the result of the already conducted interview.

    Also, you might wish to instruct the university governing council to immediately advertise for suitable candidates to apply for the already vacant office of the university registrar and appoint, in the interim, the most senior deputy registrar in an acting capacity to oversee the affairs of the office. These are irregularities within the university that merit investigation and corrective action.

    We believe that addressing these concerns will reinforce the integrity of the appointment process and restore trust in the governance of our esteemed university. We have full confidence in your commitment to justice and fairness, and we trust that you will take the necessary steps to rectify this situation.

    •Kasim Isa Muhammad,

    Damaturu, Yobe State.

  • Ridiculous reason

    Ridiculous reason

    Perhaps unwittingly, the Federal Government exposed its fear of terrorists, and suggested it was powerless against them, during the ongoing trial of alleged terrorism enabler Mohammed Tukur Mamu who had sought transfer from the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) to the Kuje Correctional Centre, Abuja.  The Federal Government had opposed his request, citing incessant jailbreaks in the country.

     Notably, the jailbreak at the Kuje prison, Abuja, in July 2022, further heightened public concern about insecurity in the country, particularly because this happened in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the seat of the Federal Government. The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) claimed responsibility for the attack on the Kuje prison, which led to the escape of about 900 inmates, including 64 “high-profile Boko Haram terrorists.” This is the prison Mamu had unsuccessfully requested that he be transferred to.  

    Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court, Abuja, dismissed Mamu’s request based on the Federal Government’s argument regarding frequency of prison breaks in the country, saying he did not contradict or dispute the claim. The judge ordered that he remain in DSS custody throughout his trial. 

    He was arrested at the Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano State, following his arrival from Egypt in September 2022. He was accused of collaborating with the terrorists who attacked the Abuja-Kaduna train in March 2022. The DSS, in March 2023, arraigned him for terrorism financing, among others. He pleaded not guilty to the charges.

    The history of jailbreaks in the country shows that there were 18 cases from 2015 to 2022. This supports the Federal Government’s claim regarding never-ending prison breaks.  But the federal authorities should accept responsibility for poor security at the prisons, which is mainly why the jailbreaks happen. 

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    Indeed, in April, yet another jailbreak happened at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Suleja, Niger State, a 250-capacity centre located “about 80km” from the FCT. The authorities said 119 inmates at the facility fled into the night. The facility, said to have been built during the colonial era, was described as old and weak.

    Early this year, Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) spokesperson Abubakar Umar had bragged that there were no jailbreaks and prison attacks in 2023, attributing the “achievement” to “the effectiveness of the top-level security measures that have been diligently upheld in our custodial centres across the nation.” The Suleja jailbreak not only contradicted the claim of improved security at the country’s prisons; it further exposed poor security at the prisons.

    It was ridiculous that the Federal Government highlighted the frequency of jailbreaks in the country as its reason for opposing Mamu’s request for transfer to the Kuje prison. It was an indirect admission of poor security at the prisons, and underlined the government’s failure in that regard.  

  • Renaissance of hope in Sokoto East

    Renaissance of hope in Sokoto East

    • By Usama Dandare

    Sir: Sokoto State has faced its own challenges with the ongoing issue of banditry that plagues the northern region, with Sokoto East unfortunately being the most severely affected area. Countless individuals have been displaced in their own homeland, facing danger to their lives, destruction of their properties, annexation of their territory, shattered dreams, and a bleak future at the hands of ruthless bandits. Despite this dire situation, those in positions of authority turned a blind eye to their suffering, leaving them vulnerable to these predatory forces.

    However, Senator Ibrahim Lamido, representing the Sokoto East Senatorial Zone emerged as a beacon of hope for the troubled region. The Senator’s initial action was to enlist the help of 500 members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) from Borno State to supplement the efforts of security personnel in restoring peace and security to the area. In addition to covering their monthly salaries, welfare, and housing, as well as providing comprehensive support for security agents, Lamido supplied five new Hilux vehicles and three armoured vehicles to the CJTF and security forces to bolster their operational capabilities.

    Due to the widespread unemployment caused by bandit activities, Lamido initiated the Widows Support Program, offering ₦200,000.00 to numerous women who lost their husbands to banditry, along with job opportunities for their children. Displaced individuals also received assistance in the form of food supplies, clean drinking water, and medical supplies at various Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps and other families seeking refuge in neighbouring communities.

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    Recognizing the detrimental impact of bandit attacks on education, which left hundreds of thousands unable to sustain themselves or support their children’s education, Senator Lamido granted scholarships to all tertiary students from the Eastern part of the state. He ensured that schools in the constituency were well-protected, creating a conducive environment for learning to thrive despite the prevailing insecurity. Each student also received a self-support package of ₦50,000.00.

    Over the span of just 11 months, Senator Lamido has undeniably left a lasting impact on the peace and security of his constituency, garnering widespread admiration from the community for his steadfast commitment.

    Senator Lamido emerges as a leader, dedicated to paving the way towards a more prosperous existence for all those who seek his guidance and assistance. With his guidance, the residents of Sokoto East and the entirety of Sokoto State can anticipate a promising and brighter tomorrow on the horizon.

    •Usama Dandare,

    Sokoto.

  • Giving voice to the boy-child in a changing society

    Giving voice to the boy-child in a changing society

    • By Kayode Ojewale

    Sir: Few days ago, the International Day of the Boy Child 2024 was celebrated worldwide with the theme, “Passion and Drive: Igniting the Fire Within the Boy Child.” During the observance, experts highlighted the need to recognize the unique challenges and potential of boys. Annually, the boy child receives comparatively less attention than the girl child. Data shows that passion projects and initiatives are predominantly driven by women and often focus solely on the girl child. This emphasis on the girl child can be largely attributed to global media attention and efforts by the United Nations, Sustainable Development Goals, and other international organizations, which have inadvertently neglected the boy child.

    One of the key issues facing the boy child is societal expectations and stereotypes. From a young age, boys are often taught to suppress their emotions, adhere to rigid notions of masculinity, and avoid activities or interests perceived as “feminine.” These societal norms can be damaging, leading to issues like mental health struggles, poor self-esteem, and difficulty forming meaningful relationships.

    By giving a voice to the boy child, we can challenge these harmful stereotypes and create space for boys to express themselves authentically. Encouraging emotional intelligence and empathy in boys can help them develop healthier relationships and a better understanding of themselves and others. It’s essential to teach boys that it’s okay to feel and express a full range of emotions, whether it’s joy, sadness, anger, or fear.

    Education also plays a vital role in giving a voice to the boy child. Schools should promote inclusive and gender-sensitive curricula that reflect the diverse experiences and identities of all students. By teaching boys about gender equality, consent, and respectful relationships, we can help them become more informed and compassionate individuals.

    Another crucial aspect of giving a voice to the boy child is fostering positive male role models. Boys benefit from seeing men who defy traditional gender norms, embrace vulnerability, and prioritize empathy and kindness. By highlighting diverse male role models in media, sports, and leadership positions, we can challenge narrow definitions of masculinity and inspire boys to be their authentic selves.

    Parenting also plays a significant role in giving a voice to the boy child. Parents should encourage open communication, provide emotional support, and challenge gender stereotypes at home. By fostering a nurturing and accepting environment, parents can help boys develop a strong sense of self-worth and resilience.

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    Are we not overlooking the challenges faced by boys in society today? Have we neglected the needs of the boy child in our pursuit of gender equality? When will the attention given to both genders, in terms of projects, awareness, and initiatives, be balanced? How can we elevate the awareness campaign concerning issues that promote the well-being of the boy child? The time for society to address these questions and secure urgent attention and intervention for the boy child is now.

    Giving a voice to the boy child in society is essential for creating a more inclusive, equitable, and compassionate world. By challenging harmful stereotypes, promoting inclusive education, addressing systemic barriers, highlighting positive male role models, and fostering supportive parenting practices, we can empower boys to thrive and contribute positively to their communities.

    Redefining masculinity is not only crucial for men of all ages but also holds particular significance for the boy child as they navigate their journey to manhood in a rapidly evolving world. By challenging outdated gender norms, we can create a society where the boy child feels empowered to embrace his true self and where masculinity is defined not by stereotypes but by authenticity, empathy, and respect.

    It’s high time we recognized and addressed the unique challenges faced by boys and work together to create a world where every child, regardless of gender, has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

    •Kayode Ojewale,

    kayodeojewale@gmail.com