The Nation Newspaper

Category: Commentaries

  • Naira rally: why consumers aren’t seeing relief yet

    Naira rally: why consumers aren’t seeing relief yet

    By Chinedu George Nnawetanma

    SIR: Over the past few weeks, the naira has appreciated from a record low of around N1,900/dollar to N1,148/dollar as of April 12, prompting the US investment bank, Goldman Sachs, to pronounce it the best performing currency in the world in April.

    This has come as a relief to many Nigerians who have been battered by the negative effects of the seemingly perpetual and unstoppable depreciation of the naira against the dollar. One of the areas where Nigerians have felt the pangs of the weak local currency is in the prices of goods and services. Prices of everyday goods, including staple foods and household items, seemed to soar with every visit to the market. This also manifested in higher transportation costs, utility bills and other services.

    This synchronized rise in the prices of goods and services with the depreciation of the naira is largely a result of the country’s huge dependence on imported goods. A large chunk of all the products used in the country are imported, including many consumer and industrial goods like milk, sugar, petrol, vehicles and machinery. It is unsurprising then that the prices go up as the cost of importing them becomes higher. Even service providers, who do not directly sell imported goods, will be forced to hike their prices in such a scenario in order to remain profitable as they utilize one imported product or the other in their day-to-day operations. This creates a vicious cycle that fuels inflation.

    But, as many of you have wondered, why haven’t the prices of goods and services come down since the naira has strengthened steadily against the dollar and other major global currencies in the past few weeks? Well, this is related to a variety of factors, including price stickiness.

    Read Also; Tinubu’s economic reforms yielding results, says Alake

    Price stickiness occurs when businesses do not immediately bring down the prices of their goods and services because of the higher cost of their current inventory. Many of the products still in circulation today were imported or produced when the exchange rate of the naira to the dollar was very low. It is usually when they exhaust their old stock and purchase or manufacture new ones that the prices will adjust, all things being equal. That way, they do not unusually incur losses and cut into their profit margins by selling at a rate lower than the original cost price.

    Another factor that is keeping the prices of goods and services high is psychology, or the fear that the naira’s gain against the dollar is temporary and the currency will depreciate again in the near future. Simply put, if businesses expect the naira to weaken against the dollar anytime soon, they may be hesitant to lower the prices now. This waiting game can further delay the decrease in consumer prices.

    For businesses in the service industry that do not sell physical products, additional considerations like high operating cost can contribute to price stickiness. Many service providers rely on imported goods and equipment for their daily operations, from office supplies and cleaning materials to tech hardware. Wages and salaries adjusted upwards when the naira was weaker may also not be reduced even with the stronger naira. Reducing salaries is a delicate and controversial move that can dampen workers’ morale. Keeping the salaries and overhead costs high while reducing the prices of the services provided can squeeze the profit margins of these businesses.

    All in all, the effects of naira’s appreciation may take some time to trickle down to consumer prices due to some of the factors pointed out above. Businesses typically factor in not just the current exchange rate, but also their past purchases, the overall cost of production and future uncertainty. While a stronger naira is a welcome development, Nigerians might need to be patient for its full impact to be felt by consumers.

    • Chinedu George Nnawetanma.

  • Matters arising in contemporary Kannywood industry

    Matters arising in contemporary Kannywood industry

    By Usman Abdullahi Koli

    The Hausa cinematic industry has been in existence from time immemorial. It started as stage dramas mostly performed during festivities in the 80s, but gradually metamorphosed to what is obtainable now. Kannywood is a term coined from Hausa films produced in Kano State of Northern Nigeria. Some states like Kaduna and Jos also make Hausa movies, but they are not as popular as those in Kano. Talented individuals and groups have contributed to the development and set unforgettable milestones in Kannywood. One of such persons is Adamu Abdullahi Zango, also known as Prince Zango. Adam has been acting in Hausa films for over 20 years. He is one of the pioneering cast members of many ancient movies. Zango is a multi-skilled individual as he acts, sings, produces and directs films, while at the same time introducing new faces to the screens.

    However, despite the immense contributions of Adam Zango, he has been a victim of accusations, controversies and rumors, but they all turned out to be a bunch of false claims in the end. One of the major problems dragging the Hausa film industry back is enmity. No matter how talented an actor is, if he is not in the circle of those who consider themselves owners of the industry or if their stardom is at its peak, he or she is always considered worthless. An adage states that “united we stand, divided we fall.” The level of unity and support for one another in Kannywood is below expectation. It is only in Kannywood that actors receive financial support when they come out crying in videos, exposing what they are going through. Such behavior is contrary to other entertainment industries, where actors and actresses frequently check on colleagues and offer helping hands without disseminating the act on social media.  

    Some years ago, in his philanthropic effort to give back to society, Zango promised to give out millions of Naira to orphans in Kaduna. People from the industry and outside started saying that he could only make promises without implementing them. This, among other factors, contributed immensely to the current reality Zango is facing in the industry. People don’t usually appreciate him or keep quiet about issues that affect him directly, turning his life into a topic of discussion every single time. Adam was not given the opportunity to attend higher education, but his zeal to actualize the ambitions of young people inspired him to sponsor a high number in Kaduna, Jos and Kano states. The possession of assets, valuables, and material things by all those who work in WhiteHouse Family, an entertainment venture owned by Zango, is a testimony that he is full of kindness, selflessness, open-mindedness, and what he has never makes him proud.

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    What Zango is currently going through, I don’t see it as depression, as claimed by many. There are people he wholeheartedly helped and trusted but who turned against him. Additionally, he is facing a lot of troubles on social media from those who dislike him, always fabricating lies against him. Yes, silence is not golden. He is supposed to speak up in his defense, since no one is willing to stand up for him. The best one could do for the woman he loves is to marry and confide in her. What kills faster than a bullet is betrayal from a life partner, and the bond of trust ends without a second thought. Many accused Zango of frequent marriages and serving his wives with hot breakfast (divorce) in short periods. As revealed by him, the truth of the matter is that most times, the wives failed to be submissive, respectful and faithful as commanded by our religion. Zango has been hiding the facts about what led him to divorce his wives from public space, but the ranting from near and far is unbecoming and unbearable. He has decided to let the hen out of the cage. Frankly, keeping some issues hidden is better, as exposing them is like adding salt to an injury.

    Furthermore, most of the films produced by Zango were created by local writers, not copies of Bollywood or Hollywood stories. The films contributed to the portrayal of real Hausa norms and values, cultures and traditions, dressings and foods, shelters and festivals, while maintaining the religious injunctions. The languages being used are authentic Hausa, alongside idioms, styles, and proverbs, making it easier for children to learn. Despite dressing in Western attires in some movies, Zango still maintains the moral compass of Hausa and Islam. Factually, nobody can boldly point out where Adam is seen in a fantasy scene with women in films. Other characters have done worse than what Zango did in movies and feel that doing so is normal, without minding the repercussions on their families or people who took them as role models. By the way, who is morally upright in Kannywood?

    In summary, I have been an advocate for Kannywood, as I have written about misunderstandings between Rarara and former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, the decision of MOPPAN to dismiss Rahama Sadau, among other topics in the Hausa entertainment industry. It should be noted that stakeholders and characters in Kannywood should see themselves as one family, because commendation to one affects the rest and vice versa. People need to reciprocate kindness with kindness. Fans and mentees of artists should learn to respect each other by supporting themselves and resolving issues through dialogue.

    Adam Zango needs to control himself, especially in moments of anger, and stop making decisions at those times. He has faced worse situations before and stood strong. He can do it again. Let him consult relatives and trusted friends before taking any bold steps in his life. Finally, as a celebrity and a mirror to a limitless number of people, Adam Zango should ignore the negative comments, criticisms, disrespectful and abusive words of followers on social media platforms. If he gives them no time to reply, they would have no choice but to stop. Kannywood has never had a gifted actor like Adam Zango in its history. He should cherish the God-given talent and be more focused, optimistic, and keep pouring out the best in him in both acting and music. Anything related to his personal life should be private, as antagonists always look for weak points or where he does wrong to attack him. He should keep in mind that he is a son, father, and someone others look up to. His words and actions, whether good or bad, would be replicated by them.

    • Usman Abdullahi Koli, ANIPR, writes from mernoukoli@gmail.com.

  • Yoruba ‘nesan’!

    Yoruba ‘nesan’!

    The speed of light, with which Prof. Banji Akintoye and Sunday Igboho denied the Ibadan miscreants, claiming to be Yoruba “nesan” activists, was simply amusing! 

    Before you could call “Odua!”, both distanced themselves from the arch-folly of these romantics, who had wished to “capture” the Oyo State Government Secretariat, with the special thrill of hoisting their Yoruba Nation flag on the Ibadan Parliament building of the old glorious West, now serving as the Oyo State House of Assembly.

    And after that, what?

    Again, the haste with which the eminent and respected professor of history distanced himself from that comedy was something else.  Yet, his discomfiture was fit rebuke for intellectualizing for stark guys, who could hardly relate.

    Igboho himself was the first victim, serving as happy battling ram, to batter the “Fulani” president, plotting to enslave his beloved Yorubaland, with Fulani “terrorists”!  Why, a charged Igboho once told himself and ilk, while on a raid of the Idiroko border with

    Benin Republic, that he was defending “Yoruba border”!

    But a hard stint in Benin Republic jail, complete with ugly skirmishes with DSS that preceded his fleeing to that country, seems to have reset his brain to cold reality. 

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    Before then, however, he was even captured on video, bragging, to raucous applause, that he would “kill” a “senator” for Igboho’s “Yoruba nesan” cause.  That “senator” is now president of the Federal Republic. 

    Igboho is wiser now — for neither that subversive roar, nor the good professor’s free-wheeling “Yoruba Nation” theorizing, helped Igboho in his Benin odyssey, though that lobby made a face-saving claim they helped to spring Igboho. Maybe they did.

    But after Igboho, these brain-washed souls trying to seize the Oyo Government Secretariat, after another batch had earlier created a public nuisance at Ojota, that popular bus stop, on Ikorodu Road, in Lagos.  When will this comedy stop?

    By the way, under what mandate, popular or closet, is Yoruba Nation or Odua Republic, beyond the whims and caprices of its sponsors?  How can a tiny minority impose their racket on the majority, that continues to look on with quaint bemusement?

    Is it not clear to everyone now that Nigeria only has two tribes — the poor and the rich — and that the rich had better sort out the poor, lest the poor gobble up the rich in no time?

    Let the Yoruba Nation theorists take a cue from the mess in the South East. Chinua Achebe, storied author and father of the African novel, nevertheless exited with historical bile in his final parting shot: There Was A Country. 

    That bile woke up the buried demons of Biafra, epitomized by a rash Nnamdi Kanu, who has since run himself into a ditch.

    The message is clear: those on the departure lounge should not create needless future hazards for uncritical youths, at the start of their lives.  A word is enough for the wise.

  • Abiodun’s outpouring of post-subsidy interventions

    Abiodun’s outpouring of post-subsidy interventions

    By Kayode Akinmade

    During the COVID-19 lockdown, the then President, Muhammadu Buhari, some notable aviation experts and other credible national and international bodies singled out Ogun State, along with Lagos, for recognition. They lauded  the two states for their valiant efforts to tame the menace and save the nation needless casualties. Today, as the expected socioeconomic effects of the removal of subsidy on PMS and the floatation of the naira bite hard, Ogun under Prince Dapo Abiodun is playing the same lead role that earned it recognition in the immediate past political dispensation.

    That is not fortuitous: great leaders are known for empathy, integrity, resilience, accountability and dependability. According to the Center for Creative Leadership, a top-ranked provider of executive education, “A good leader should have integrity, self-awareness, courage, respect, compassion, and resilience. They should  encourage learning agile and flex their influence while communicating the vision, showing gratitude, and collaborating effectively.” Dr. Jennifer Varney, Executive VP of Academic Effectiveness at the Southern New Hampshire University, echoes this view when she avers that “good leaders possess self-awareness, garner credibility, focus on relationship-building, have a bias for action, exhibit humility, empower others, stay authentic, present themselves as constant and consistent, become role models and are fully present.”

    Read Also; JAMB: 577 blind candidates to write 2024 UTME

    In rolling out food and cash palliatives, Governor Abiodun is showing the central place of people’s comfort in his administration’s programmes. He recognizes the challenges of day-to-day living that the people face and wishes to offer them relief while heightening the delivery of infrastructure projects, including airports, dry ports and expressways. At the moment, in the area of education,about 150,000 students across all levels of education in the state are getting cash awards. The Educational Cash Award For Student Help (OgunEduCASH) is an intervention programme for learners in all public primary and secondary schools, as well as public and private tertiary institutions across Nigeria, to cushion the effects of the economic challenges on learners and their parents. The scheme, announced by Governor Abiodun in February, is a robust part of the state’s palliative package whereby each tertiary education student gets N50,000 cash from the state government, regardless of whether they are in public or private tertiary institutions. That is not all: 100,000 indigent students in public primary and secondary schools are each getting N10,000 cash.

    Not surprisingly, the social and traditional media is replete with testimonies of students who have enjoyed this cash award, which is without prejudice to scholarships and bursaries. They couldn’t hide their excitement even as they showered encomiums on the governor for the gesture. Among many other students, Aminat Asaye, Tomiwa Iteoluwa (Mass Communication HND 2), Ogunjobi and Olujomehin Ebudola (Accountancy, HND 2) and Rokeeb Ayinla (Marketing ND 2), all of the Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta, appreciated Governor Abiodun for the gesture, saying the money would go a long way in meeting their educational pursuits. They were joined by Adebayo Farouq and Olatinuke Olajumoke (Computer Science, HND 2), and Liadi Israel (Computer Science, ND 2), of D.S Adegbenro ICT Polytechnic, who averred that the cash awards would cater for their projects and support in paying a sizeable part  of their tuition fees. And equally mesmerized by the gesture, Adewale Oyenekan, Rebecca Akinfenwa, Leduwe Ayomide, Toheeb Adesina, and David Dosunmu of the Federal College of Education, Osiele, described Governor Abiodun as compassionate, tender hearted, generous, and student-loving father, describing the gesture as an indication of the governor’s passion for the prosperity of the citizenry. Students from some Universities – OOU Ago- Iwoye,TASUED Ijagun also commended the unprecedented efforts of the governor. Specifically, Miss Sharon Olumuyiwa (HHM Dept. OOU) and Dotun Sowole (Bus. Education,TASUED) appreciated the gesture which they claimed helped them in the pursuit of their education.

    That was not all: palliatives aimed at easing both Lent and Ramadan were distributed across the three senatorial districts of the state. The palliatives, including rice, were shared in churches and mosques, with the beneficiaries commending the governor for his kind gesture and noting that their pains were being ameliorated. Said the Bishop of Remo Diocese, Methodist Church Nigeria, The Rt. Rev. Bamidele Ibikunle: “It is an exciting thing to know that our governor is thinking well of the people and I am happy especially today that we are commemorating the Palm Sunday. We want to thank the governor in a special way for being mindful of his people because times are hard and this palliative will go a long way in ameriorating people’s suffering, particularly people who are not sure of what to eat at Easter. They can now have something on their table to eat with their families.” And speaking during the distribution at the Ijebu-Ode Central Mosque, the Grand Chief Imam, Sheik Miftaudeen Ayanbadejo, said: “I thank His Excellency, Governor Abiodun, for this palliative because there is hunger in the land and whatever the government can do to bring relief is welcome.” The cleric urged the Federal Government to open the borders “for a short time even if it is for three months to allow things to normalize.” Hear the Chief Imam of the Ilaro Central Mosque , Alhaji Tajudeen Adewunmi: “The hardship in the land is too much and it is telling on the people. You can imagine a situation where people can no longer afford three square meals per day. It is only God that can come to our rescue. Thank God that we have a governor who feels the pulse of the people and is ready to meet everybody at the point of needs.”

    Indeed, one of the things that constantly gave Nigerians concern before now is the oft-reported hijacking of palliatives by political actors or bureaucrats following their announcement by the various governments. That is why the Ogun State government has been keen ensuring that the intended beneficiaries of its schemes access them directly. Unlike what obtains in other areas, all the palliatives are getting to the direct beneficiaries. For instance, the beneficiaries of EduCash have been lauding the government for its transparency. The government was able to get the data of all students of Ogun origin through collaboration with the school authorities. Names were submitted by VCs, Provosts and Rectors using information submitted by students while filling in JAMB forms or during registration in the institutions, and the students were paid simultaneously. Testimonies abound on Twitter, Facebook and platforms like Nairaland. At the lower levels, the government identified indigent students through their teachers, and testimonies abound of parents thanking the government for the gesture which, according to the state Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof Abayomi Arigbabu, has gulped over N3bn.

    In distributing rice palliatives to the vulnerable and less privileged across LGs, the Abiodun government was meeting a critical need, and it is instructive that there were no reported incidents of rowdiness or fighting. In any case, it is a thing of great joy that in the area of surgical interventions, over 1500 residents have benefited already. The free surgery takes care of ailments like goiter, fibroids, hernia, etc, and has so far been a phenomenal success. Governor Abiodun knows what he is doing: he has a target, and the right people to ensure that the targeted beneficiaries get the interventions. That is obviously an unbeatable combination.

    • Akinmade is Special Adviser on Media and Communications to Ogun State Governor.

  • Tinubu’s bold reforms: testament to courage and patriotism

    Tinubu’s bold reforms: testament to courage and patriotism

    By Maxwell Adeyemi Adeleye

    In my recent article titled ‘Tinubu: boldly steering Nigeria’s economy towards stability and growth,’ published by several mainstream media in Nigeria, especially, Business Day, The Nation and The Guardian, I analyzed various situations that posed severe challenges towards Nigeria’s economy and the bold steps being taken by the current president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to counter these challenges and drive the change we all have been clamoring for. These bold implementations and rules that once pitched Nigerians against the current government now look to be the ‘promising saviour’ Nigerians direly need to navigate towards economic growth and stability

    In the ever-changing scope of Nigerian politics and economy, where uncertainty looms large and promises are often left broken, President Tinubu’s administration has personally been a source of renewed hope and inspiration, influencing the expectation of Nigerians for a better economy that has been promised for over half a century without fulfillment.

    Over the years in Nigeria, I have witnessed the struggles of ordinary citizens battling with economic hardship and political uncertainty. Two major things that the ordinary citizens hardly understand are how they are influenced. The huge difference between the official and parallel exchange rates, which has always been driven by corruption and exploitation, continuously posed a barrier to economic progress. However, with Tinubu’s decision to float the naira, Nigeria, a nation that imports virtually all that she consumes, has witnessed a remarkable transformation in our currency exchange system.

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    Gone are the days when there are multiple exchange rates and most elites hoard foreign currency for profit racketeering. Tinubu’s decision to float the naira, a decision that should have been made years ago, has not only brought transparency and accountability to our financial system but has also restored faith in our economy. Unlike the previous government that exhausted 23 trillion naira in eight years in order to manage naira, which amounted to nothing positive, Tinubu took the bold step – floating the naira.

    Recently, some opposition figures, most of whom are arm-chaired, tackled the present government over the decline in government foreign reserves. And truly, data from CBN as of the 5th of April, 2024, shows Nigeria foreign reserve to have  declined from $34.45 billion to $33.69 billion, a development they say calls for concern. But I am compelled to applaud the government’s bold steps in clearing all the backlog of major forex payments to foreign airlines, petroleum marketers and multinationals, which caused this decline. Nigerians noting the importance of the clearance of these backlogs is paramount for us to have a clear understanding of what influences Africa’s biggest economy instead of listening to sad tales from perennial election losers seeking for relevance through peddling of falsehood and propaganda.

    Nigeria has over $1 billion in forex forwards that have matured, and it posed major concern for investors as foreign currency shortages continue to depreciate the naira. So, the bold step the current government took in clearing the backlogs would continuously appreciate naira and further drive investors to Nigeria. We all know foreign investors would only invest in a favourable economy. I strongly believe in the profound impact that these reforms will have on the nation’s economic stability and growth.

    Currently, the management of fuel importation subsidies by the NNPC has proven the efficiency of Tinubu’s economic policies. It is heartening for Nigerians to see subsidies being utilized as a tool for fostering economic stability and growth rather than burdening the national budget or being embezzled by powerful office holders. In my previous report, I noted how fuel subsidy removal has led to the increment of all states and councils monthly allocations. One of the most significant changes I have observed in this current economy is the increase in FAAC allocations to states and local councils following the removal of subsidies.

    Through the analysis of data provided by the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, most states have seen a substantial increase in funding, enabling them to embark on crucial infrastructure projects that benefit ordinary citizens since they are closer to the grassroot government. According to a report by the BusinessDay, Nasarawa state’s monthly average FAAC allocation rose by 185.3 percent to N12.39 billion post-subsidy removal from N4.34 billion pre-subsidy removal, while that of Enugu increased by 94.3 percent to N6.72 billion from N3.47 billion. Anambra, Ogun, Ebonyi, Kogi, Bauchi, Plateau, Niger and Sokoto saw increases of 74.1 percent, 66.3 percent, 53.6 percent, 51.9 percent, 51.5 percent, 51.4 percent, 50.9 percent and 50.5 respectively. This means more allocation for the local governments, too, the closest to Nigerians to implement effective policies that would benefit the citizens directly. This tremendous increase wouldn’t have been possible without fuel subsidy removal, a bold step taken by Tinubu to promote economic growth. Hence, Nigerians should extend the tentacle of their demand for accountability to their Governors and local government chairmen, and not Tinubu alone.

    Looking forward to the future of Nigeria’s economy if the current government keeps up the pace, I am filled with great optimism about Nigeria’s growth even though at a slow pace. The beginning of operation of local refineries like the Dangote refinery will enhance self-sufficiency and reduce our dependence on foreign imports. Projections by the International Monetary Fund states that increased domestic refining capacity is expected to promote Nigeria’s position in the global market and enhance our economic resilience. What more would be great than experiencing this growth together?

    A recent happening that has immersed Nigerians home and abroad in the pool of pride remains the huge appreciation of the naira compared to a few months ago when one United States dollar was exchanged for 1,950 naira. In Nigeria today, naira to dollar has appreciated $1 to 1,100 Naira, leaving Nigerians with a sense of pride and confidence over President Tinubu’s economic decisions. Many Nigerians, who had left home to seek opportunities abroad, are now expressing a desire to return home, drawn by the promise of a revitalized economy and improved living standards. Speaking to a friend of mine some days back, analyzing the economic future of Nigeria, in his words: “If a pound should ever equal one thousand naira, I would rather come back home to return to my business rather than continue slaving away in another man’s land, earning 2,500 pounds and use it all on house rent, utility bills and tax.”

    His words proved to me that even though people are miles away from home, it is not by choice, and many are awaiting their father’s land transformative journey, to offer us all what we deserve as the true children of the land. While it is imperative to note that these changes are not extraordinary, they could have been implemented years back, and who knows, Nigeria might have been on the global chart for its economic prowess. The previous leaders lacked the courage and patriotism to implement these strategic moves that could have pitched them against the citizens, but Tinubu’s determination remains unwavering even in the face of adversity.

    My journey of reflection on Tinubu’s bold reforms has reaffirmed my belief in the power of courage and patriotism to effect meaningful change. While several challenges remain, I am inspired by the resolve of the present government and fellow citizens to build a brighter future for Nigeria. As we continue on this journey together, I am filled with hope and determination to contribute my part towards our nation’s progress and prosperity.

    • Maxwell Adeyemi Adeleye, a Communication-for-development expert, sent this piece from London, United Kingdom, via maxwelladeleye@gmail.com

  • Atiku Abubakar, Panama Papers and Lagos-Calabar superhighway

    Atiku Abubakar, Panama Papers and Lagos-Calabar superhighway

    By Niyi Akinsiju Cifian

    In a criminal court in Panama, the trial of the first batch of 27 individuals accused of money laundering related to the global “Panama Papers” revelations began on Monday, the 8th of April, 2024.

    The owners of the Mossack-Fonseca legal business, which was central to the major document leak in 2016, are among those on trial.

    A compilation of 11 million confidential financial records from the Panama Papers shows how some of the wealthiest people on the planet conceal their wealth.

    The revelations had far-reaching effects, leading to the resignation of Iceland’s prime minister and heightened international scrutiny of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese legislators, and the governments of Argentina and Ukraine.

     At number 68 on the list of exposed former top government officials in the Panama Papers is Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President of Nigeria. Mossack Fonseca is accused by US federal prosecutors of plotting to break US laws to protect its clients’ riches and hide taxes that should have been paid to the IRS.

    They claimed that the plan, which began around 2000, featured shell corporations and fictitious foundations in the British Virgin Islands, Panama, and Hong Kong.

    Interestingly, while investigations are reportedly ongoing on the next batch of individuals listed in the Panama Papers which may include the Waziri Adamawa, the two-time presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is waging his own war of attrition, demanding transparency in the procurement process of the economically strategic Lagos-Calabar coastal road.

     We have observed the back and forth between Waziri Abubakar and the Federal Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, in this curious public activism initiated by the former Vice-President.

    Our concern, however, is the deliberate obfuscation that is unfortunately being clothed as grounds to traduce the economic and social basis of the commencement of the coastal road. 

    We consider this an unhealthy, diversionary, and deliberate manoeuvre to discredit the whole essence of the Lagos-Calabar coastal project. 

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    Without a doubt, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, as it is also called, is a grand project. It is designed to connect nine states and regions at both the national and international levels, serving as a vital link between South West, South East, South-South, and other regions of the country. It will also integrate with existing federal roads, promoting economic and social development across the country in addition to the integration at the national level for Southwest, Southeast, and South-South, including the Niger Delta region.

    It will connect with Federal Roads going from Badagry in Lagos to Sokoto. From Warri to Kaduna, from Port Harcourt to Kano/Maiduguri, and from Calabar to Maiduguri. Starting at Victoria Island near Eko Atlantic City, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway will pass through the Lekki Coastal Road, Lekki Free Trade Zone, and the Dangote Refinery, connecting Ogun, Ondo, Delta, Edo, and reaching Calabar.

    The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road is a 700km highway that would be constructed in phases, with the completed sections being opened for use and toll collection. The project, described as ambitious, will connect the Lagos-Badagry Expressway, the Fourth Mainland Bridge, Lekki Deep Sea Port Road, and various points in Northern Nigeria through the Ogoja-Ikom axis.

    It is expected to stimulate tourism and include industrial clusters, such as hotels, factories, housing estates, and other amenities, including rail lines running in the middle of the main carriageways.

     According to Umahi, the road is to be built with 11 inch thick concrete and  20-millimetre reinforcement. The innovative use of concrete and steel reinforcement will improve local cement manufacturing and boost steel production from Ajaokuta. It will also take advantage of Nigeria’s abundant bitumen resources.  It is acknowledged that a combination of construction methods, including pile-supported decks, sand filling, and retaining walls, will be employed to overcome the challenges of such project since it will cut through mangroves, mashy land, flood plains, and various soil types.

    Indeed, we agree with analysts and pundits who had submitted that the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is a groundbreaking project and ranked as the first of its kind in Africa.

    However, Waziri Abubakar holds a huge grudge against this project in spite of immense benefits of the project. He has continued to express his grouses, taking advantage of the mass media through press statements.

    We have reviewed each of these statements and the various responses to them by the Minister of Works. Coming from this, we note that the statements are manifestations of errors of judgment, deliberate misrepresentation and a lack of contextual understanding of due processes. We clearly discern obvious confusion with issues pertaining to the eras of former Presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari on the Coastal Rail, which was misrepresented as those of the Coastal Highway. There obviously has been a clear indication of not paying attention to details of the project as presently conceived.

    Be that as it may, because we subscribe to the totality of the social and economic essence of the Coastal Road and Rail projects, and desire to interrogate any form of obscuration by any of the parties involved in the public spat as it had turned out, with intent at resolving the contentious issues being bandied about, we decided to review real issues and sentiments around the project that is being controverted by Waziri Abubakar.

    Starting with the statements issued in the name of Waziri Abubakar Atiku, we distilled his expressed resentments into three broad spectra. First is that the award of the contract for the construction of the Coastal Road did not go through the required public procurement processes as outlined in the Public Procurement Act 2007 and, his insistence to the effect that the essence of a competitive bidding will ensure that Nigerians can get the best value for money.

    According to the Waziri: “It is so that you can compare prices and pick the company that can afford …the project.” The Waziri has a point here. But apparently, because of a lack of attention to details, he overlooked the implication of the preamble to Part IV of the Act in Section 16 (1) which asserts that: “Subject to any exemption allowed by this Act, all public procurement shall be conducted by open competitive bidding; in a manner which is transparent, timely, equitable for ensuring accountability and conformity with the Act and regulation deriving there from.” Waziri Abubakar decidedly ignored the implication of Section 16 (1) and determinedly made Section 16 (c) and (d) the substance of his argument to score his point. Undeniably, the Act provides for two broad exemptions, one as stated in Section 40 (1a) which notes that: “Subject to the approval by the Bureau, a procuring entity may for reasons of economy and efficiency engage in procurement by means of restricted tendering if: The goods, works or services are available only from a limited number of suppliers or contractors.     

    The Federal Ministry of Work, which is the procuring entity, depended on this sub section to award the contract to Hitech Construction Company, Nigeria. His attention must have been eventually directed to Section 40 (2a),  which states that: “Where a procurement entity engages in restricted tendering on the basis that the goods, works and services are available only from a limited number of suppliers of contractors, it shall invite tender from all the suppliers and contractors who can provide the goods, works, or service. If there was only one capable contractor to deliver on the work.”

    In averting his mind to it in a subsequent press release he issued in response to the Minister of Works reference to the section, he would, rather, the bid was opened to companies outside the country as he insists that: “It is wrong for him (Minister of Works) to have concluded that only Hitech could handle this project when such a project has been done by other reputable firms in the United States, China and South Africa.” To this extent, Waziri Abubakar did not also reckon with Section 34 (1) of the same Act which concludes that: “A procuring entity may grant a margin of preference in the evaluation of tender, when comparing tenders from domestic bidders with those from foreign bidders or when comparing tenders from domestic suppliers offering goods manufactured locally with those offering goods manufactured abroad.”

    This should be taken together with Section 34 (2) which asserts that: “Where a procuring entity intends to allow domestic preferences, the biding documents shall clearly indicate any preference to be granted to domestic suppliers and contractors and the information required to establish the eligibility of a bid for such preference.” The implication of this subsection, speaks, ab-initio, to the Federal Government’s preference for awarding contracts to qualified domestic companies.

    Though Waziri Abubakar had raged in his press statements that the only reason Hitech got the job was because of its owner, Gilbert Chagoury’s relationship with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, this, in our consideration, is rather pedestrian. Our checks show that Chagoury, who is a Nigerian by birth, has friends in very high places including Waziri Abubakar himself who was one of his guests on 7th of July, 2007, when he had a wedding organized in Monaco.

    The Chagoury wedding attracted former military Heads of State, Generals Ibrahim Babangida and Abubakar Abdulsalami, head of the interim government, and late Chief Ernest Shonekan

    Also in attendance were the then former Lagos governor, Bola Tinubu, and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar  himself, who reportedly flew in from Dubai. Former Governor of Delta State James Ibori was also in attendance.

    With this array of friends, if the rule is not to award Federal Government contracts to an individual because of his link to people of influence, it will translate to Chagoury going hungry because of the nature of his coterie of friends.

    We do not think the Public Procurement Act harbours such intention.

    To establish Hitech’s fit into the capabilities to deliver on the coastal road contract, we made both discreet and open enquiries on the company’s credentials and contracts portfolio and records. We can assert, based on evidence garnered, that Hitech may pass as the only Nigerian company able to construct the coastal road as conceived. The only other company that may claim near capacity is the construction behemoth, Julius Berger Plc. But over the years, Hitech has shown a specialization in shoreline and coastal roads construction than Julius Berger. A typical reference in this regard was the Bar Beach shoreline contract awarded to the two companies at different times and how they performed therein.

    In June 2003, approval was given by President Olusegun Obasanjo for a permanent solution to the menace of the Atlantic Ocean, which threatened at that time to engulf major parts of Victoria Island, Lagos. Funds were released to Julius Berger and other contractors to put in place a permanent structure to stop the sea’s advance, which had  ebbed major portions of the Ahmadu Bello Way. Three years later, by April 2006, the evaluation of the work done by Julius Berger showed that nothing had changed at Bar Beach. Analysts, at that time, submitted that: “Unless the ongoing restoration of the shore line of the depleted Bar Beach in Victoria Island, Lagos is quickly completed, the likelihood of stopping what may be another Tsunami disaster, akin to the one that occurred in Asia in a not too long ago, is very slim.”

    In addition, the analysts averred that already, the ocean had claimed one lane of the ever busy Ahmadu Bello Way, forcing motorists from both sides to make do with the single lane, which was also not spared of threats by the ocean.

    In 2009, the contract for the Bar Beach beach line management was awarded to Hitech Construction Company. Construction experts have since submitted that handing over the project to Hitech became a strategic move for Nigeria because not only did the company stopped the flooding along the axis, it also reclaimed a lot of land and has turned the area into another Dubai in the name of our own, Atlantic City. Besides, Hitech has a strong presence in countries of the West African region. In Togo, the company is responsible for the rehabilitation of the National Route NR 14 – from Sokodé to the Benin border, that country’s 85 kilometres coastal road. In Benin Republic, Hitech is constructing the 12.5 kilometres Cotonou Fisheries Road Development Project, another coastal road.

    As to the accusation concerning how the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road is shrouded in secrecy, our independent investigation shows that before the contract was eventually awarded to Hitech by the Federal Ministry of Works, officials of the company met with the Ministry’s management team at various times. One of such meetings was held on 25th September, 2023, when Hitech engineers met with the Minister of Works and engineers in the Ministry to review designs. At another meeting in October 2023, the construction agreement was ratified.

    The second issue  that Waziri Abubakar had raged about, has to do with the cost of the project. The former Vice President, had variously controverted possible cost of constructing what the Minister of Works had insisted is a 10-lane express road which would start from Victoria Island near Eko Atlantic City and go through Lekki Coastal Road, Lekki Free Trade Zone, Dangote Refinery, and then link Ogun, Ondo, Delta, Edo states up to Calabar,Cross Rivers state.

    According to Umahi, the highway will be delivered at a cost of N4.329 billion per kilometre of standard gauge reinforced concrete across 10 lanes, with a lifespan of between 50 – 100 years. In response to the cost as announced by Umahi, Waziri Abubakar declared that the tentative total cost of N14trillion was the equivalent of the total budget of all the 36 states which is about N15.91 trillion and that it was outrageous.

    Waziri Abubakar, despite his apparent show of outrage over the cost as announced by Umahi, is yet to offer a possible real cost of the project which he has sensationally described as “highway to fraud and waste.” But is the costing truly a reflection of fraud? Our international comparative analysis of average road construction cost per kilometre shows otherwise.

    We are of the opinion that Waziri Abubakar merely desires to scapegoat the project and eventually discredit the positive public image accruable to President Tinubu from the implementation of the project.

    We note that there is no unified standard pricing template for the cost of building a kilometre of road anywhere in the world. The realities of road building have much to do with a number of variables: location, terrain, type of construction, number of lanes, lane width, surface durability, and the number of bridges, to name a few. Yet, for the purpose of engagement, we reviewed some cost estimates in some other countries to establish the context of fraud or otherwise that Waziri Abubakar is trying to throw up. To build a 2-lane road of 12 metres wide of each lane with no bridges in states of North Eastern United States of America is $3.34m per km (when converted to Naira using the N1200/$ adopted by Umahi, it comes to N4.08bn per km) while same 2-lane road in South Eastern USA with no bridges is $3.78m per km (N4.53bn per km).  According to the Texas Department of Transportation, the average cost of building a concrete road in rural areas is around $2.5m per mile, while in urban areas it can cost upwards of $5m per mile.

    In California, the estimated cost of building a concrete road ranges from $3m to $6m per mile, depending on location and other factors.

    In Australia, average road project costs were around $5.1m (N6.12bn) per lane kilometre in 2017. But in Bangladesh, according to the World Bank, the estimated cost of construction is $6.6m (N7.92bn) per kilometre for the Rangpur-Hatikumrul highway, $7m (N8.4bn) per kilometre for Dhaka-Sylhet highway, $11.9m (N14.28 bn) per kilometre for Dhaka-Mawa highway. This underscores cost differentials in road construction because of peculiarities in terrains.

    These figures are far higher than the N4.329bn per kilometre of 10 lanes of Coastal Road with very peculiar terrains that Umahi says Hitech has commenced construction of.

    For clarity, a technical analysis of the features of the road will suffice: The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road is designed to have 10 lanes with a total pavement of 59.2 metres with 100 metres corridor. Of this corridor, there will be five lanes on the right and five lanes on the left. This comes with a 25-metre train track. It is also commendable that the Works Minister prudently reduced the cost of the legacy design of the four-lane Lagos-Calabar highway of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) from N8.52bn/km to N4.329bn/km.

    On appropriation, we note that the former Vice President referenced the N500m captured in the name of the project in the 2024 budget but finds fault with the approval of N1.06 trn by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for the take-off of the project. Again, we believe that Waziri Abubakar deliberately chose to ignore the convention of anticipatory approval by which FEC can increase funds allocated to a budgetary item for exigency purpose with intent at submitting same to the legislative arm for consideration and approval.

    Our general submission is that Waziri Abubakar’s vaunted interrogation of the award process of the Coastal Road to Hitech Construction Company lacks substance and rational logic. It smacks of public exhibitionism to showcase his personal alternative reality.

    We commend President Tinubu and his Works Minister for their prudence in reducing the cost outlay for the construction of the Coastal Road.  We are also impressed with the speed and pace of construction since the Federal Government awarded the contract to Hitech Construction Company Limited, which has so far completed 1.3 kilometres of the required filling.

    • Cifian is chairman, Independent Media and Policy Initiative

  • Unattractive attractions

    Unattractive attractions

    Notably, the issue of poor maintenance culture came up during the recent visit of the Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John, to some tourist sites in Epe, Lagos State, including Oju Alaro Shrine, the Marina Waterfront, Palace of Oloja of Epe and some iconic colonial-era buildings.

     The minister said the local government “must work on sensitising the locals to always ensure these sites are neat and tidy; it won’t attract tourists if they are left like this.” Her observation spoke volumes about the unattractiveness of the sites she visited.

    According to her, “Epe is a beautiful place to be, with beautiful beaches, mangroves, seafoods and all; these are what the backpackers want to see.” However, “the sites must be made neat,” she stressed.

    This should be a wake-up call to tourism authorities in Lagos State. It was odd that these tourist attractions looked unkempt. It is thought-provoking that the minister highlighted this oddity.

    The minister also urged the Lagos State government to build a proper fish market that would attract tourists, saying she “was surprised to see lots of foreigners and different types of seafoods” when she visited the fish market. “I think the state government needs to build a more attractive fish market to further promote tourism, so that people can travel here to see and buy,” she added. 

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    The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Idris Aregbe, should be concerned about the minister’s observations. When they assumed duties in September 2023, Benson-Awoyinka was reported saying they were “ready to work from day one and tourism is about to witness a level of development never seen before.”   Epe’s unkempt tourist attractions are a clear contradiction.

    Tourism is said to be a cardinal aspect of the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration’s T.H.EM.E.S agenda. But the picture of unattractive tourist attractions in Epe suggests that the administration needs to do much more than it is doing to develop tourism in the state.

    Interestingly, Epe is the site of the Lagos Film City project, a collaboration between the Lagos State government and Del-York International Group, which promises to change the tourism narrative in the state phenomenally.  Sanwo-Olu, in October 2023, launched the proposed $100 million, 100-hectare, one-stop movie production hub in Ejinrin, Epe.

    A state government involved in such an ambitious game-changing tourism-related project should not be found wanting regarding the maintenance of tourist sites.

  • Bank recapitalisation and the North

    Bank recapitalisation and the North

    SIR: Ongoing Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)-ordered recapitalisation of banks  has serious implications for the banking sector, the equity capital market, the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation of Nigeria (NDIC) and northerners.

    The recapitalisation will make the banking sector stronger and enhance its ability to finance productive economic activities that can grow the economy; the capital market may be overwhelmed  by equity stocks as Initial Public Offer (IPO) and Right Issues from  banks flood the market. The banks must complete the process of bolstering their minimum capital by  31st March, 2016.

    The banks may go for mergers and acquisitions or the unpleasantness of self-downgrading. A few of the banks may upgrade their licenses. The CBN said in its circular of March 28, 2024  that  promoters of new banks whose applications for licences were pending or have been given preliminary approvals must also meet the new minimum capital requirement.

    The new minimum capital requirements for the six categories of banking licences are ₦500 billion for banks that would operate nationwide and overseas; ₦200 billion for national licence; regional banks must have ₦50 billion capital to operate. Merchant Banks are required to have ₦50billion as capital base. Non-interest national and regional banks are required to have minimum capital of ₦20 billion and ₦10 billion respectively.

    The CBN sees the new minimum capital as vital to enable  the banks play a stronger supportive role in  growing the economy to a USD$1 trillion size.  They are also expected to buoy the economy against what the CBN called the “prevailing macroeconomic  challenges and headwinds occasioned by external and domestic shocks.”

    Justifying recapitalisation of banks, the Bank of Canada  says on its website: “Higher bank capital requirements reduce the severity of financial downturns. The higher the buffer created by capital, the higher the bank’s probability of surviving a downturn. Surviving banks are then well placed to continue providing credit during the recovery phase.”

    The required recapitalisation of banks offers an opportunity for Nigerians of the 19 northern states to buy shares in the banks, become part owners and join the boards of the institutions. This will give them influential voices in the banks and the chance to push for favourable consideration in granting  credit facilities for  viable business proposed by Nigerians from the North.

    If Nigerians from the North invest in the banks, thereby becoming stakeholders, their perennial complaints that banks in the country frequently reject their applications for credit facilities could be reduced, or even eliminated.

    Pan-northern organisations like the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG), Northern States Christians Elders Forum, the Northern Governors Forum (NGF), Northern Senators Forum (NSF) and others should mount a sensitisation  campaign to mobilise and encourage Nigerians from the North to buy equity stocks in the banks for the numerous advantages that such would entail.

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    Now, it is appropriate to highlight  the role of the NDIC  as banks navigate the downturn while trying to up their minimum capital.

    The NDIC establishment act  empowered it to administer the Deposit Insurance Scheme (DIS) in Nigeria, which was  established by government to shield depositors against the loss of their insured deposits in member-institutions should a member-institution fail to meet its obligations to depositors.

    The  law empowered the NDIC to supervise banks so as to protect depositors; foster monetary stability; promote an effective and efficient payment system; and promote competition and innovation in the banking system. The banking supervision role of the NDIC  reduces the potential risk of failure.

    However, if an insured bank fails, creditors and shareholders could be paid liquidation dividends after depositors had been fully reimbursed. This implies that becoming a shareholder in a bank comes with some protection from the NDIC. So northerners should buy bank shares.

    • Salisu Na’inna Dambatta wrote from Dambatta.
  • The mistake called ‘Band A’

    The mistake called ‘Band A’

    SIR: The principle ‘you only sell what you have’ is a cornerstone of all businesses, resonating throughout different industries and emphasising the importance of aligning offerings with available resources and expertise.

    It is crucial to provide goods or services that are accessible and within one’s capabilities. However, Nigerian power distribution companies (Discos) are selling services they cannot deliver to their customers. For example, the promised 20–24-hour electricity supply under the new tariffs, such as Band A, appears to be unsuccessful.

    The Discos are simply selling 20–24 hours of electricity and darkness, causing disappointment, eroding trust, and damaging the reputation of both the Discos and the Minister of Power.

    Among economic and political observers, there is a widely held belief that credibility is paramount in retail, manufacturing or service-oriented businesses. Customers expect transparency and reliability, and any deviation from this expectation can have detrimental effects on long-term success.

    The Discos want to emulate other countries, but in those with privatized electricity, tariffs are usually categorized into residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. However, in Nigeria, consumers are simply grouped into ‘Bands.’ For instance, in countries with reliable electricity, like those in the European Union, consumers have the freedom to choose an electricity supplier from the full range available in their area, as well as the type of tariffs they prefer. In Nigeria, Discos hold a monopoly. If your service provider is Ibadan Electric, Kaduna Electric, Yola Electric, etc., you have no alternative; you must remain with that specific Disco and the tariff band they have assigned to you.

    We must acknowledge that every business, including Discos, operates within constraints – whether financial, logistical, or technical. While acknowledging these constraints is logical, the new tariff appears to be nothing more than an attempt to expedite Nigeria’s electricity sector development without addressing underlying challenges. How can Nigeria implement tariffs similar to those in countries with well-developed electricity sectors, characterised by massive infrastructure, reliable electricity, flexible tariff structures, and numerous options for consumers in choosing service providers?

    The ‘Band A’ tariff is nothing but overpromising and underdelivering. Businesses that embrace this principle prioritise maximising profits at the expense of their customers’ needs and freedom of choice.

    In fact, the majority of Nigerian electricity consumers, regardless of whether they are in Bands A, B, C, D or E, are angered by two entities: Discos and the Minister of Power. Discos are perceived as collecting money for services not rendered, while the minister is seen as defending the indefensible.

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    In serious countries, electricity supplies and tariffs are considered a security and economic imperative. Thus, electricity tariffs can vary widely depending on factors such as economic conditions, infrastructure, government policies, and production methods. Presently, Nigeria’s economic conditions cannot support or sustain these new tariffs; we lack the infrastructure and economic strength for businesses to bear such high tariffs. Consequently, this would lead to high commodity prices as production costs increase, ultimately resulting in higher prices of goods and services.

    In countries with efficient electricity systems, tariffs often reflect the costs of generation, distribution and maintenance, resulting in lower rates for consumers. For instance, countries like Norway, Sweden and Switzerland utilise a mix of hydroelectric, nuclear and renewable energy sources, which helps keep tariffs relatively low compared to gas-powered alternatives.

    The Minister of Power and Discos must revisit the drawing board as the new tariff has failed upon arrival. For instance, according to an investigative report by the Daily Trust on April 12, 2024, Discos issued 37 apologies to Band A customers within one week. They are struggling to sustain a 20–24-hour power supply to Band A customers.

    It is crucial to remind Discos of the provision by the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC): “When the Disco fails to meet the committed service level to a Band A feeder for seven consecutive days, the feeder shall be automatically downgraded to the recorded level of supply in accordance with the applicable framework.”

    • Zayyad I. Muhammad writes from zaymohd@yahoo.com
  • Ezeife: A patriot takes final bow

    Ezeife: A patriot takes final bow

    SIR: Okwadike Igboukwu, Chukwuemeka Ezeife, an economist and elder statesman, born in Igboukwu, Anambra State, on 20th November 1937, bade farewell on 14th December, 2023, at the Federal Medical Centre, Abuja at age 85.

    The charismatic, eloquent and fearless advocate of equity and justice in the Nigeria project was a brilliant politician and former governor of Anambra State from January 1992 to November 1993 during Nigeria’s Third Republic. From record, his unwavering commitment to the ideals of democracy and national development is unparalleled. Despite having his constituency in Anambra State, Okwadike took the Nigerian space as his constituency, as everything that affects any part of the country from North, Middle-Belt, Niger-Delta, Southwest to Southeast concerned him. Thus, the great icon was a detribalised Nigerian. His hatred for injustice was one virtue the former governor was reputed for.

    Possibly, many don’t know all the arrowheads in the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) who sacrificed their lives to chase the military out of power during the days of General Sani Abacha. The roll call cannot flow without names like Chief Abraham Adesanya, Ayo Adebanjo, Ayo Opadokun, Olu Falae, Chukwuemeka Ezeife, Segun Osoba, and later, returnees from exile including Chief Anthony Enahoro, Ralph Obioha, John Odigie-Oyegun amongst others. These brave men resiliently fought the good fight.

    Beyond the NADECO project, Ezeife positively touched many lives in diverse ways too. Apart from the chieftaincy title of ‘Okwadike Igboukwu,’ he also bagged numerous chieftaincy titles in many parts of the country including ‘Garkuwan Fika’ in Yobe State – in Hausa language, ‘Garkuwan’ translates to ‘Shield’ – and also, ‘Akintolugboye of Egbaland’ from the Southwest region.

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    As a product of Harvard University in the United States of America and a man who walks the talk, Ezeife, beyond his advocacy for education, in his community at Igboukwu when in health often volunteered to teach, interact with, motivate pupils and watch over the school adjacent his country home in Igboukwu to underline the fact that charity begins from home. During a personal encounter with him some time ago at his Asokoro residence, you could vividly see passion, devotion to unity and hunger for a working nation in him.

    In one of his evaluations of the Nigeria project, he said: “The journey so far seems to be going from light into darkness. Many Nigerians are thinking it is over with Nigeria. Some people are waiting for the total collapse. There is insecurity everywhere. And many people think that nobody shows concern for all the negatives. What is worse today is that conscience is dead in Nigeria…”

    As this great icon begins final journey to mother earth from April 12 at the Eagle Square, Abuja where a service of songs and carnival in his honour was held, and proceeds to his state burial by the Anambra State government on April 19 in Awka and interment at Igboukwu on April 20, and finally climaxed by thanksgiving on April 21, myriad of condolence messages are expected from government quarters, but would his cries on the state of the nation, which he described as “going from light to darkness,” be taken seriously?

    • Carl Umegboro,  Abuja.