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  • Oyebanji: Of continuity, consolidation and sustainability in Ekiti

    Oyebanji: Of continuity, consolidation and sustainability in Ekiti

    By Segun Dipe

    Drive down to Ekiti today to see change. It’s an unusual change derived from continuity of a party in government. Until recently, the state was known for the power-must-change-hands kind of politics. But for the first time, in 2022, the people voted for change in the form of continuity, and this has resulted in a tremendous transformation. The people experienced a smooth exchange of baton within a party, the All Progressives Congress, APC, and everyone became eager to see the outcome of the experiment.

    Today, the experiment seems to have been worth it. Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, aka BAO, is not allowing the electorate to regret their choice of voting for him as a symbol of continuity in the state.

    Continuity, if allowed to thrive and not taken undue advantage of, can lead to a better network in many areas of life. People feel the impact, the society feels the impact, projects feel the impact, and even the workers, who are usually afraid of allowing a political party to rule them back to back, lest they are taken for a ride, are now feeling the positive impact of continuity.

    In many of his pre-, during and after election speeches, Oyebanji had vowed not to re-invent the wheel, but to sustain the legacy of his immediate predecessor in office. He promised that if he would be remembered for anything, it is that he was able to complete all the projects embarked upon by ex-governor, Kayode Fayemi.

    Oyebanji is not a neophyte to governance. He had served in many governments; he had seen the impact of discontinuity across Nigeria and their untold effects on the people. Even where it was being argued that government was a continuum, Oyebanji knew what power lies in a governor to redirect his energy and want to breathe fresh air, instead of being suffocated by the legacy of a predecessor. But he decided not to toe such path common to many incumbent governors.

    The effect of charting new paths by succeeding governors has shown tell-tale signs that no real baton exchange was done. The baton must have been deliberately dropped and the speed of progress impeded by egoistic tendencies. Much as every government initiates projects with the intention to develop the society and improve on the welfare of the people, completing them by succeeding government becomes an impossible task, especially when it is another party that has produced the succeeding government. The new party in power would want to initiate an entirely new project and abandon the one inherited from the previous administration.

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    The reason for the above is predictable. Most governors who come on board afresh are legacy hunters. They want to erase what was, and replace them with what is. They want to start on a clean slate and rush to finish their own projects so as to carve out a niche for themselves. In essence, they do not want to waste their energy and resources on projects for which they might have to share the credit with their predecessors. This justifies why we see abandoned projects littering the space, not minding the amount of money that might have gone down the drain as a result. These are the projects tagged white elephants.

    In the right sense of it, toeing the line of continuity of government (CoG) is the best way to go. It results in consolidation of all that is good and prospers the society. Projects are sustained and people can have a long term vision without disruption.

    One such project that the people of Ekiti can point to as a gain of continuity is the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport (EAICA), which recently received the approval of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to commence flight operation from December 15. When compared to what is happening in a contiguous state that had equally embarked on the same huge project, we see the effects of continuity or discontinuity in the outcome today. We see how party succession has played a part in the execution. Earlier in the year, Oyebanji had assured that the project was not a white elephant as some cynics kept insinuating. He further assured that the airport would become operational before the year rolls out. And the promise has been kept.

    Why didn’t Oyebanji come up with the usual excuse that would have kept the project in abeyance? Why didn’t he cite poor siting of the airport as it’s happening in another state right now as reason for slowing down on it, so he could seize that opportunity to either gift his own community with it or forget about it and start something else from the scratch? He could justify such options, but he chose the path of honour, put Ekiti interest first and prove to the world that continuity pays.

    The cargo airport is not the first project that Oyebanji had inherited from Fayemi and would see to its completion. There is the Rural Access and Agricultural Project, RAAMP, which was initiated in 2021, during the second term of Fayemi and which Oyebanji has sustained. There is the Ado-Ekiti Ultra-Modern Bus Terminal, which was inaugurated by Fayemi in his time, and which Oyebanji in his tenure, allowed his predecessor in office to commission for operation last year. There is the Traditional Council Chamber also commissioned in 2023 by Oyebanji, but which was a brain child of Fayemi. These are just very few of such projects that continuity of a party in government has cured of going the way of white elephant.

    Oyebanji is not just continuing the legacy of his predecessor in office; he is also consolidating on those of other former governors that had ruled in the affairs of the state since its inception. He is busy tapping from all his predecessors in office, beginning from the first civilian governor, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, to the second civilian governor, Segun Oni, to the third, Ayodele Fayose and then his immediate predecessor, Kayode Fayemi, who happened to be both the fourth and sixth in office. He consulted them all and consolidated all their achievements into one. So when next you want to have a peep into the strategy being employed by the sitting governor and why he is enjoying peace like a river in deploying the gains of democracy to his people, look no further than that he has taken from all who governed before him. Wisdom.

    Oyebanji is consolidating to safely navigate the hitherto stormy waters of Ekiti politics. His mantra is “No foe.” Those expecting the governor to heap blames on any former governor for whatever might have gone wrong in the past will therefore have to wait till eternity. Oyebanji sees the good in every past government and moulds every experience into a superb whole.

    Now, how sustainable is such consolidation? Sustainability, through the eyes of the United Nations, means to responsibly meet the needs of present generations without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. If Oyebanji must play according to this rule, then he must not embark on palliative projects, but enduring ones. To do so is to establish a growing rapprochement between himself and the electorate, who entrusted him with their votes in 2022. He must not only gain the people’s hearts but also earn their trust that he won’t compromise the future with the present.

    It is rare in this country, Nigeria, to compare the present with the past and not to wish for a return to the past. But with Oyebanji in the saddle in Ekiti, everyone is praising the present as an improved version of the past. Not a few believe the present must sustain for a while and Oyebanji must be encouraged to continue in government till he is statutorily barred from doing so. The governor has also allayed the fears of his people, promising not to abuse their trust now or in the future.

    Oyebanji is presently stabilising the fortunes of Ekiti State. No risk can be dangerous than thinking there is someone who can perform any better magic. Such deception had pervaded our political space for long and it is about time to give stability a chance, especially when there is a justifiable reason for doing so.

    By the way, every December 21 is the birthday of our phenomenal Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji. He doesn’t celebrate it and this year will not be any different. But it reminds us of his good deeds and determination to share prosperity among his people. Your Excellency, surely, the lines will continue to fall for you in pleasant places.

    •Dipe is Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Ekiti State.

  • Counting the gains of Tinubu’s economic renewal

    Counting the gains of Tinubu’s economic renewal

    • By Mohammed Idris

    As the first full year of President Tinubu’s administration, 2024 has come with its unique share of challenges and triumphs. As we look back at the ongoing year, this is the perfect time to reflect on the President’s vision for a transformed Nigeria and how 2024 has provided numerous opportunities to manifest that vision.

    On so many fronts, the outgoing year has brought significant policy and legislative milestones that are helping to cement the very foundations of the President’s grand vision for Nigeria. Take the examples of the Students Loan Fund and the Consumer Credit Corporation, two institutions targeted at putting more resources in the pockets of the Nigerian people, empowering them to turn their dreams into opportunities.

    With the Students Loan Fund, we are seeing, for the first time in decades, Nigerian students at tertiary level, getting targeted federal assistance to pursue their academic ambitions, through long-term loans (and stipends) that are designed to not be burdensome in any way. In less than one year, more than 300,000 Nigerian students have already benefited.

    With the Consumer Credit scheme, we are seeing affordable financing being made available to workers, to enable them afford life’s necessities. Every developed country is built around a functioning credit system that fuels consumer spending and translates into economic growth. Nigeria is now finally on that path.

    Also in 2024, we also saw the first steps in the implementation of a new electricity framework in the country, conferring the State governments with greater agency and responsibility. Building on a recent constitutional amendment, the President signed into law the 2024 Electricity Act that is now guiding a pioneering set of States into rolling out their own regulated electricity markets.

    Indeed, for Nigeria to be truly able to achieve economic development, we must allow the subnational governments more room for real economic impact. With the new Electricity Act, States can now play a much bigger role in attracting investments into on-grid and off-grid solutions, ensuring that more electricity gets to more Nigerians.

    This concept of giving more power and opportunities to the States is one of the defining governing philosophies of President Tinubu – as Governor of Lagos two decades ago he was one of the leading advocates of true federalism in Nigeria. Now, as President, he has not abandoned those ideals. In July 2024 we saw the landmark ruling  by the Supreme Court, empowering local governments to an extent we have not seen in our recent history. The President has since empaneled an Inter-Ministerial Committee that will ensure the full enforcement of that judgement.

    For the state governments, President Tinubu’s economic reforms have triggered a dramatic surge in revenues, which is allowing the States to do more for their people. The last FAAC meeting saw the sharing of a record 1.727 Trillion Naira amongst the three tiers of government. These resources are meant to deliver bigger dividends of development to Nigerians.

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    For those who have taken the effort to be familiar with the ongoing tax reforms, the Bills currently before the National Assembly also represent another fiscal boon for the subnational governments, with the Federal government choosing for example to take an even smaller portion of VAT than it currently gets.

    The Presidential Initiative on CNG marked its first year of implementation recently, with the number of vehicle conversion centers in the country rising from fewer than 10 to more than 120. The goal is to make CNG a fuel of choice for private and commercial transportation in Nigeria, bringing down costs by as much as 50 to 60 percent. We are already seeing enthusiastic uptake of the initiative, and the government is supporting this by way of fiscal incentives and subsidized conversions.

    The year is closing with the massive news of the final investment decision (FID) by Shell and its partners on the Bonga North deep offshore oil project, which is Nigeria’s first deep offshore FID in over a decade. This FID was preceded by the one by Total and NNPC Limited on the 300 million cubic feet per day Ubeta gas project. Together these two projects represent over 5 billion dollars in investment value.

    These long-awaited investment decisions have now finally happened because the investors behind them can see, from the President’s policies and actions, that Nigeria is truly serious and ready for oil and gas investment. A series of presidential directives issued at the beginning of 2024 have unleashed the biggest wave of investor interest in our country’s energy sector in a while.

    in 2024, our security forces neutralized more than 8,000 terrorists and bandits, and arrested 11,600 others, with more than 10,000 weapons recovered. Additionally, about 8,000 kidnap victims were successfully rescued. The goal is to keep driving down the numbers of victims, while scaling up efforts to make crime and criminality unattractive in Nigeria.

    On the foreign affairs front, the 2024 has been a most encouraging year, despite several challenging geopolitical developments around the world, including in our corner of West Africa. This year Nigeria was awarded the hosting rights for the new African Energy Bank, which will prove to be game-changing for energy financing in Africa. As we reposition ourselves to be a global energy hub, this is a most fitting complement.

    Nigeria is asserting itself as a country that cannot be ignored on the global stage. In 2024, President Tinubu hosted heads of State and/or government from India, the world’s largest democracy, and from Germany, Europe’s largest economy.

    He was welcomed on a State Visit to France, at a very exciting time in the history of mutually-beneficial relations between Nigeria and France. Nigeria was specially invited to the G20 Summit for the second consecutive year running, and we forged deeper relations with South Africa through our joint presidential binational commission.

    As we step into a new year, during which we will mark the second anniversary of the Tinubu Administration, we will surely see even more of the positive outcomes of the President’s reforms, in infrastructure, agriculture, security, healthcare, education, creative and digital economy and many other areas. The tax reforms, when passed into law and assented to, will cut personal and corporate income taxes for tens of millions of Nigerians, while also expanding VAT exemptions.

    Consumer credit and student loans will reach many more people. Important indices such as foreign reserves position, trade surplus, oil production, and GDP growth are set to continue rising, even as greater work going into permanently taming inflation. The 2025 budget – the very fittingly-themed “Budget of Restoration: Securing Peace, Rebuilding Prosperity” – is a convincing pointer of the federal government’s commitment to maintaining the positive course in which we are headed as a nation.

    We will continue to seek the understanding of Nigerians on this journey of, in the President’s words in the 2025 budget speech, “economic renewal and institutional development.” The sacrifices will all surely be rewarded, and we shall surely and steadily advance towards our desired destination – a country where a progressively better life will be guaranteed for everyone, regardless of where in the country they happen to reside. Under President Tinubu’s watch, 2025 will represent a leap forward, towards that deserved destination.

    •Mohammed Idris, fnipr, is the Minister of Information and National Orientation

  • Underground economy

    Underground economy

    It is official: ransom payment for kidnapped persons in Nigeria is big business. Some N2.23trillion was paid out as ransom money over 12 months between May 2023 and April 2024, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has revealed.

    The bureau, which is the nation’s official statistician, said there was an estimated 51.89million crime incidents recorded across Nigerian households in the period under review. In the Crime Experience and Security Perception Survey report recently published on its website, the NBS said the Northwest geopolitical zone had the highest incidence of crime at 14.4million cases reported, followed by the Northcentral zone with 8.8million incidents reported. Conversely, the notoriety of the Southeast zone for insurrectionist violence wasn’t as bad as it seemed, apparently, because the zone reported the least incidence of crime with 6.18million cases. The survey further showed that rural areas experienced more of crime attacks than urban areas, with 26.53million incidents reported in rural households as against 25.36million incidents in urban areas.

    Of households affected by kidnapping incidents, 65 percent were forced to pay ransom to secure the release of their loved ones. The average amount paid as ransom for a kidnapped relation was N2,67million, totalling to an estimated N2.23trillion ransom payment within the reference period, the NBS report stated.

    It might help to properly figure out the stated volume of ransom payment by juxtaposing it with transactions in the official economy. The N2.23trillion that the statistical bureau estimated kidnappers collected in 12 months is way bigger than the N1.97trillion the Lagos State Government targets as Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to partly finance its proposed N3trillion 2025 budget. The estimated ransom payment is nearly half of the N4.91trillion projected for defence and security spending in the N49.7trillion 2025 federal appropriation bill that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu presented to the National Assembly (NASS) last week.

    We can only darkly imagine what that volume of cash in the hands of criminals was applied to by them in further hazarding the safety of Nigerians. That is not to mention the motivation to further kidnappings such bountiful yield must have constituted to kidnappers. But one thing is clear: it was a thriving underground economy that could have contributed substantially to the gross domestic product (GDP) in the conventional economy were those proceeds taxable.

    The statistical bureau said in its report that many victims cited lack of confidence in law enforcement and a belief that police intervention would not lead to meaningful action as major reasons for not reporting their experiences. Amidst the widespread nature of crime, public perception of safety was low as the survey found that 9.6 percent of Nigerians believed they were at risk of becoming victims of crime within the next 12 months. The fear of crime was higher in rural areas where 13 percent of the population felt vulnerable, compared with seven percent in urban areas.

    The report also impugned the effectiveness of security agencies, particularly the police, in responding to emergencies. According to the NBS, 33.1 percent of Nigerians reported that security agencies responded to emergency calls within 30 minutes. The bureau as well said approximately four out of 10 households interacted with state or local security forces during the survey period, with half of such households contacting the police. Satisfaction with police responses was however low, especially in cases of livestock and crop theft where 42.9 percent and 42.4 percent of victims respectively expressed satisfaction. In many rural areas, local vigilance groups were seen as more reliable providers of security.

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    Late last week, the statistical bureau reported a cyber-attack on its website. In a post on its X handle, the bureau said: “This is to inform the public that the NBS website has been hacked and we are working to recover it. Please disregard any message or report posted until the website is fully restored.” The bureau, however, did not disown the crime survey report earlier published or suggest it was unofficially made public. There were subsequent online reports alleging that the statistical bureau’s chief executive officer got into hot water with security high echelons over the crime survey report that was considered embarrassing to government, and that the NBS website was shut down and not hacked as claimed. Let’s be clear that those reports weren’t confirmed. But it would be tragic if allegations of a crackdown on the bureau were true because the survey report – coming from the source it came – should rather offer helpful insight into security architecture that could be devised by managers of the security establishment rather than be viewed from the narrow prism of its fleeting implication for government image.

    Ransom payment to criminal elements has been a tough choice that often confronted relations of kidnapped victims, but the security establishment always refused to acknowledge it was happening. What the statistical bureau report did was to highlight the reality and magnitude of the trend. Much as it wasn’t openly acknowledged, the trend riled governing authorities, with frantic attempts made in the past to rein it in.

    In April 2022, the Senate chamber of the ninth NASS passed a bill imposing a jail term of at least 15 years for payment of ransom to free someone who has been kidnapped. The bill also made kidnapping punishable by death in the event that the victim dies in the encounter, with life imprisonment prescribed in other events. Arguing for the bill, then chairman of the judiciary, human rights and legal committee of the red chamber (now Senate Leader), Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, said making ransom payment punishable with a lengthy jail sentence would “discourage the rising spate of kidnapping and abduction for ransom in Nigeria.” The bill, which was to amend the nation’s terrorism law, never got to secure presidential assent because the House of Representatives did not get done with its concurrence as statutorily required.

    On the heels of the Senate’s passage of the bill, however, there was a lively national debate as to whether it made sense to penalise someone who was compelled to pay ransom for freedom of his kidnapped relation when you did not prevent the kidnap from happening in the first place. The survey report by NBS underscores the unwisdom of paying ransom to criminals, because it is a self-inducing option that encourages further kidnap for ransom when a demand for ransom is met. But the challenge is more to the security establishment to prevent citizens being put on the tough spot of submitting to ransom demand by criminals.

    One of the most sensational cases of kidnap and ransom payment in recent history was that of the Al-Kadriyar sisters early this year. Mansoor Al-Kadriyar, a Federal Capital Territory (FCT) resident, was abducted by bandits in his family home in Bwari Area Council early in January, along with his five daughters and their cousin, a daughter to Mansoor’s brother who got killed in the kidnap operation. Two days later, Mansoor was let off by the bandits to go raise N60million for the release of the girls. One of the abducted sisters was Nabeeha, a 400-level Biological Science student of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, who on 12th January was killed by the kidnappers to press home their death threat against the remaining five girls if the ransom demand was not hurriedly met. Nabeeha’s five sisters who remained in captivity included Najeebah, a 500-level Quantity Surveying student. A relation of the Al-Kadriyars made their predicament known on social media, and a crowdfunding initiative hashtagged #Najeebaandhersisters was launched by sympathisers. The highpoint of the crowdfunding drive was the disclosure by immediate past Communications and Digital Economy Minister Isa Pantami that a friend of his had volunteered N50million to make up the N60million ransom being demanded by the bandits for the release of the remaining Al-Kadriyar sisters. Pantami, in a post on his verified X handle, tweeted that while he personally was not in support of paying ransom to criminals, he’s had to solicit funds for the release of the remaining sisters in view of the fate that befell Nabeeha.

    Government did tackle the kidnapping wave in the FCT and elsewhere, and has largely gotten an upper hand. But Pantami, as ex-minister, initiated a policy of linking Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) cards with holders’ National Identity Number (NIN) – a policy that has so far failed to hamstring kidnappers from using phone lines to demand ransom payment, among other illicit uses. The NBS crime survey report should be a wake-up call to revisit this policy and make it work to billing. One question the survey report didn’t answer is: what happened to the kidnappers who picked up so much ransom money?

    •Please join me on kayodeidowu.blogspot.be for conversation.

  • Of three stampedes in one week

    Of three stampedes in one week

    • By Ogungbile Emmanuel Oludotun

    In just one long week, Nigeria witnessed three devastating stampedes that claimed the lives of over 50 people and left scores injured. From a children’s funfair in Ibadan to a charity event in Abuja and a palliative distribution in Okija, these tragedies are hard reminders of systemic failures that continue to plague the nation. While the immediate triggers vary, the underlying causes point to a complex web of negligence, poverty, and lack of institutional oversight.

    The first of these tragic events unfolded at the Islamic High School in Orita Bashorun, Ibadan, during what was supposed to be a joyous children’s funfair. At least 35 young lives were lost, some others injured, as chaos erupted due to poor crowd control. Initial investigations suggest that the situation spiralled out of control when entry fees were suddenly reduced, and some attendees were allowed in for free. This mismanagement, coupled with the sheer number of attendees, led to panic and a deadly stampede before the event had even started.

    In Okija, Anambra State, another cold incident occurred during the distribution of palliatives by Chief Ernest Obiejesi, a prominent community philanthropist. The rush for basic necessities, rice, vegetable oil, and money ended in tragedy as a large crowd surged uncontrollably toward the venue’s entrance. The victims, mostly women and children, were crushed in the melee, highlighting the desperate circumstances of many Nigerians who rely on such donations for survival. Shoes and personal items strewn across the chaotic scene bore silent witness to the panic and despair that ensued. The event, meant to bring relief, instead became a deadly race for survival, with those in the greatest need bearing the highest cost.

    As if these were not enough, tragedy struck again in Abuja at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, where 10 people, including four children, lost their lives during a charity food distribution. The event, intended to provide sustenance to the vulnerable and elderly, became yet another grim spectacle of desperation and chaos. Despite the police’s emphasis on the need for organizers to notify authorities of such events, the warning came too late for the victims of these poorly planned initiatives. Much like the other events, a lack of adequate preparation led to an unmanageable crowd and a fatal disaster.

    Each of these tragedies reveals a pattern of preventable errors and systemic neglect. The event organizers clearly underestimated the scale of attendance and failed to implement basic safety measures, such as limiting access, arranging staggered entry, or employing trained security personnel. Their actions—or inactions—turned moments meant for joy and relief into scenes of unimaginable grief. Despite the pure intentions of those involved, these oversights have cost lives.

    However, the blame does not lie solely with the organizers. These stampedes expose the depth of poverty and inequality in Nigeria, where millions of citizens are forced to scramble for scarce resources. For many, a free meal or a discounted funfair is not just a luxury but a lifeline. This desperation, fuelled by years of economic mismanagement and government inaction, creates fertile ground for such tragedies to occur. The desire to receive a free meal or a discounted service often drives people to act recklessly, as they risk their safety in the hope of gaining something they cannot afford otherwise.

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    Institutional failures also loom large. The absence of effective regulatory frameworks to ensure public safety at large gatherings leaves citizens vulnerable. While police might have issued directives for event organizers to seek police approval, these measures remain reactive rather than preventive.

    Globally, stampedes are not unique to Nigeria. The Nzérékoré Stampede in Guinea early this year, during a soccer match, claimed 56 lives. In Hathras, India, over 120 people lost their lives in a funeral stampede earlier this year, and just recently, a Congo Music Concert stampede claimed many lives. These events highlight that the problem is not isolated to Nigeria but is a broader, international issue. However, the root causes—poor planning, inadequate crowd control, and desperation—remain consistent across borders.

    In response to these recurring tragedies, there is a pressing need for a more structured and robust legal framework to govern public events in Nigeria. Drawing inspiration from the UK’s Martyn’s Law, a legislation designed to ensure public spaces are prepared for potential threats and mass gatherings, Nigeria’s House of Representatives and Senate should look into similar laws. These laws could mandate crowd control measures, event planning approvals, and thorough safety checks.

    While I understand the anger and frustration of many Nigerians, especially the authorities who are arresting organizers in these cases, I can’t help but feel a sense of compassion. Yes, the organizers failed in their duty to ensure adequate preparation, and that failure led to the loss of innocent lives. But their intention was, undoubtedly, pure, to bring relief to people in need. It’s important to recognize that these tragedies stem from systemic neglect, not malicious intent. Arresting the organizers may serve as a temporary solution, but it does not address the underlying issues that caused these stampedes in the first place.

    Moreover, technology offers innovative solutions. Mobile ticketing systems and pre-registration platforms could help control attendance and prevent overcrowding. Additionally, public education campaigns can play a crucial role in mitigating such disasters. Countries like South Korea have implemented community training programs on crowd behaviour and safety during emergencies, having learned their lesson after the Seoul Halloween crush. In Nigeria, similar initiatives could instil a culture of patience and awareness, reducing the risk of panic-induced stampedes.

    Addressing poverty, however, remains the cornerstone of preventing these tragedies. Until the desperation that drives people to risk their lives for basic necessities is addressed, the cycle of loss will persist.

    Now, until Nigeria confronts its systemic failures head-on, through better planning, technology integration, public education, and poverty alleviation, the cycle of avoidable tragedies will persist, leaving more families shattered and more lives lost. May the souls of departed find a place of peace.

    •Oludotun writes via thedreamchaser65@gmail.com>

  • MINILS Labour Summit and Renewed Hope Reform Agenda

    MINILS Labour Summit and Renewed Hope Reform Agenda

    • By Issa Aremu

    On Tuesday, November 26, the Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies (MINILS), Ilorin, Kwara State, hosted the 10th Labour Summit with almost 1,000 participants in attendance. Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Barrister Nkeiruka Onyejeocha was the chief host.  The event was convened by the MINILS, an institution statutorily mandated to build capacity of workers, employers and government officials in labour and industrial relations through training and research, and to promote industrial harmony for sustainable development.

    In 2003, the MINILS initiated the annual National Labour Relations Summit (NLRS). It complements the institute’s regular week-long seminars and in-plant/tailor-made courses in labour relations. The National Labour Relations Summit (NLRS) is a two decade long largest annual gathering of the critical mass of stakeholders in Nigeria’s labour relations system. Scores of thousands of participants had attended the summits with distinguished presence of labour leaders, ministers, governors, local and international partners in the labour market. The summit deliberates on employment issues with the main objective of setting agenda for the promotion of industrial harmony, social justice in work places and productivity for national development.

    I commend the management and staff of MINILS for the revival of the summit which held last in 2013, some 11 years ago. The 2024 Summit assumes special importance because it is over a year, since the historic inauguration of President Tinubu as the 6th democratically elected president. An assessment of the labour dimension of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the administration is more than a partial commitment. As the director of Labour Directorate of the APC Presidential Campaign Council, I facilitated and set the tone at the Town hall meeting of the then presidential candidate Bola Tinubu with Organised Labour at Chida Hotel Conference Centre in Abuja on Monday, December 19, 2022. Adjudged as the best and well attended by the leaders of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), then presidential candidate Tinubu in a no hold barred four hour session unfolded his action plan for a better Nigeria.

    His words hinted at far reaching reforms with labour support if elected: “I seek a Nigeria where sufficient jobs with decent wages give people the chance to live better lives. Where the private sector thrives, we will not disrupt it. However, where the private sector cannot do it alone, my government will take the lead in lending a helping hand”.

    Tinubu said his administration would make fiscal and monetary policies work for the workers and Nigerians so they can have a good life. True to his promise, President Tinubu has come of age as an audacious reformer. He has initiated far reaching social and economic reforms within the framework of the comprehensive eight-point Renewed Hope Agenda. The objectives are to reposition Nigerian economy, tackle poverty headlong, achieve sustainable development and improve living standards of Nigerians. The most controversial are the immediate removal of the controversial trillion-naira per annum subsidy payment on petrol products and liberalization of the foreign exchange market aimed at blocking leakages in petroleum downstream sector, thus freezing resources to fund critical areas like healthcare, education and infrastructural development.

    Expectedly the impact of the reform measures on the labour market with respect to employment, cost of living and general welfare have elicited mixed reactions. Enthusiastic supporters of the reforms on the one hand, have pointed to the emerging benefits. On the other hand, critics allude to the adverse effects of rising inflation and worsening wage income poverty, caused by massive naira devaluation. The 10th Labour Summit offered a veritable platform to assess constructively the impact of the reform Renewed Hope Agenda on the future of work hence the theme – The Future of Work and Renewed Hope Reform Agenda: Issues and Perspectives. The discussants included representatives of organized labour, employers, labour market institutions namely National Productivity Centre (NPC), National Directorate of Employment (NDE) NSITF moderated by Professor Emeritus of Labour Studies, Dave Otobo, an age-long friend of MINILS.

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    The “Ilorin consensus” is that Nigeria needs reform and complete transformation from poverty to prosperity. With 70 per cent living below the poverty line, we don’t need a sermon to critically re-look at policies that hitherto pushed the majority to the margin. It was time to reverse the paradox of deprivation amidst abundant opportunities. So much work undone, yet so much youth unemployment and abysmal underemployment. To this extent, participants commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for being a change agent. The ongoing national and international debate on the reform is healthy for Nigeria. “Development” is back in discourse.  NBS Nigeria’s GDP in the third quarter has moved to 3.46 percent gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate, a sign that reform is yielding fruit. But it’s not over until Nigeria achieves minimum of $1trillion dollar economy, double digit growth rates as desired by President Tinubu. The GDP must be driven by revival of labour intensive manufacturing sectors like textile and automobile factories. However industrialization is impossible without electricity – no thanks to addictive national grid collapses! Let’s make and buy Nigeria. National budgets must finance national development not other countries’. Following the removal of subsidy on imported fuel, the 650,000 barrels per day (bpd) Dangote Refinery is now a reality. Port Harcourt Refinery has finally commenced operations after undergoing renovation and modernisation that began in 2021 after the federal government secured a $1.5bn contract to rehabilitate the facility. There is indeed now alternative to unacceptable wholesale products imports that put pressures on naira value. Renewed Hope indeed! Innovative Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) now powers buses and tricycles worth N100 billion to ease the transportation. There has been massive campaign for digital literacy to promote youth employability in the growing digital economy. MINILS has been part of the youth employability capacity building through skill acquisition.

    For the first time in annals of Nigeria’s educational system, federal government launched a student loan scheme to serve as the platform for access to funds by prospective students. There is growing optimism in the decisions taken by President Tinubu’s administration that reforms are not only desirable but inevitable for national development. Indeed there is an urgent need for a bipartisan national partnership for national development.

    All the above call for continuous constructive engagement among the stakeholders. Regular dialogue, education and evaluation are essential to address the impact of the reforms on job creation, decent work, industrial harmony, productivity and compensation in the world of work. Some features of the future of work are already here and Nigeria is not spared of its unsavoury auguries. Already, Al (artificial intelligence), robotics, big data and increased computer powers are displacing human labour and big players – advanced countries and their big enterprises are strategically positioning to benefit from its trade-offs and complementarities.

    Remarkably, President Bola Tinubu has demonstrated significant sensitivity by initiating a number of profound measures to mitigate the adverse impact of reforms on costs of living, transportation and wages of the workers.

    Unlike some past reforms which “deformed” the public service through indiscriminate mass retrenchment of public employees, President Tinubu has commendably ensured security of public service, avoided the pitfall of the least resistance of downsizing and retrenchment. Just like the former President Muhammed Buhari who notwithstanding COVID-19 commendably retained jobs and paid public servants during lock down. Significantly, the president in response to protests by organized labour on the adverse impact of reform, initiated policy measures to address the plight of the workers impaired by inflation and devaluation. There was the presidential wage award of N35,000 to federal workers for six months and cash transfer of N25,000.00 monthly to some millions of the poorest and most vulnerable Nigerians for three months. The most historic of the interventions is the enactment of 2024 National Minimum Wage Act of N70,000. This followed an intense six-month long tripartite (plus) collective bargaining process between the government, organized labour and employers of labour.

    I salute the 10th National Assembly, President Tinubu and Minister Onyejeocha for the speedy enactment of the sixth National Minimum Wage Act since 1981 with a three year cycle from the old five-year drag. All hail the state governors and private employers who have paid the minimum wage backed by law. Organized labour is right to put legitimate pressures on states and employers who refuse to pay the legally permissible least wage precisely because it is illegal. But as significant as minimum wage is, it is not a living wage. President Tinubu is fully committed also to living wage. I suggest that organized labour continue the engagement through social dialogue and collective bargaining with the government on how to a have wage-job-led economic growth.

    • Aremu mni is Director General, Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies (MINILS), Ilorin.

  • How to deal with Putin

    How to deal with Putin

    • By Anders Aslund

    Which Western leader has been best at dealing with Putin? It has not been any American or German in recent decades. In both countries bipartisan folly has abounded.

    George W. Bush understood nothing, being exceedingly complimentary to Putin. In June 2001, Bush said: “I looked the man in the eye. I found him to be very straightforward and trustworthy… I was able to get a sense of his soul, a man deeply committed to his country and the best interests of his country.”

    In September 2003, Bush claimed: “I respect President Putin’s vision for Russia: a country at peace within its borders, with its neighbors and with the world, a country in which democracy and freedom and rule of law thrive.”

    Even after Putin’s famous anti-American February 2007 speech in Munich, Bush stated in July 2007: “But one thing I’ve found about Vladimir Putin is that he is consistent, transparent, honest… I know he’s always telling me the truth.”

    At the NATO summit in Bucharest in April 2008, Putin had declared that Ukraine was not a country. Even so, Bush went to see Putin in Sochi in the most conciliatory fashion. Little wonder that Putin invaded Georgia four months later.

    Barack Obama made the opposite mistakes. He insulted Putin publicly but did nothing to stop him.

    In the presidential campaign in 2012, Obama ridiculed Mitt Romney’s claim that Russia was the United States’ principal geopolitical foe, stating that he was considerably more concerned about the threat of a terrorist nuclear bomb attack on New York.

    Putin listened and annexed Crimea in March 2014.

    Obama imposed sanctions on Russia, but he said that the US was committed to the defense of its NATO allies but not to that of non-member states along Russia’s borders. He insisted: “Russia is a regional power that is threatening some of its immediate neighbors, not out of strength but out of weakness.”

    Obama couldn’t care less about Ukraine. He never visited it and refused to defend Ukraine’s sovereignty. Although most of his administration, including Vice President Joe Biden, asked him to send arms to Ukraine, he prohibited it. Obama appears to have been unable to understand the danger of Russia. Absurdly, he liked Russian President Dmitri Medvedev, now one of the foremost advocates of genocide in Ukraine.

    The German bipartisan folly on Russia has been different, but also harmful. German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder supported Putin wholeheartedly and approved of Putin’s favorite project, Nord Stream, a gas pipeline through the Baltic Sea from Russia to Germany, after he had lost the elections in 2005.

    A few weeks later, he became the handsomely paid chairman of the Nord Stream company board. Ever since, Schröder, as a paid Putin servant, has claimed that Putin is always right – in the wars in Georgia and Ukraine – and even being a “crystal clear democrat.” Shockingly, the German social democratic party has not expelled Schröder.

    The victory of Angela Merkel and her Christian Democrats in 2005 came as a relief, but she failed to stand up to Putin. Although she grew up in East Germany and learned good Russian, she appears to have understood as little of Putin as Obama.

    All along, she was afraid of “provoking” Putin, not comprehending that nothing provokes Putin as much as appeasement. She made every possible mistake, believing in the old German social democratic folly of Ostpolitik, believing that economic integration would lead to democratization of Russia.

    Read Also: Syria shows that Putin is in deep, worldwide trouble

    Merkel could have stopped Schröder’s morally dubious decision to allow Nord Stream 1, but she did not. Next, she fought tooth and nail for the doubling of the gas pipeline with Nord Stream 2, mendaciously claiming that it was a purely commercial project, while Russia had designed it as a geopolitical blow against Ukraine.

    At the NATO summit in Bucharest in April 2008, she and French President Nicolas Sarkozy blocked membership action plans for Ukraine and Georgia. She still defends that, although only NATO association could have salvaged these two countries from Russian aggression.

    After Russia had attacked Ukraine in 2014, Obama and Merkel agreed not to allow any arms deliveries to Ukraine, because that could provoke Putin.

    For years, Merkel played appeaser, insisting on meaningless Minsk negotiations with Russia about Ukraine, giving Putin respite to prepare for a bigger war. She minimized German military spending and turned the German Wehrmacht into a joke. Amazingly, Merkel claims to get upset when she realized that Putin lied to her.

    What world did she live in? Don’t believe anything until the Kremlin has denied it!

    Instead, Sauli Niinistö, Finland’s popular conservative president from 2012 to 2024, stands out as the wisest Western leader on Russia.

    Niinistö maintained regular personal and phone contacts with Putin. He spoke his mind firmly and correctly, but privately and he made no unnecessary concessions to Putin.

    In his New Year message for 2022, Niinistö opened the door for Finland’s accession to NATO, and Finland applied swiftly in May 2022 with a massive popular majority. One year later, Finland had joined NATO, ably pre-empting Russian protests.

    Admittedly, Russia tried multiple provocations, from buying Finnish islands, to cutting Finnish underwater cables to flood Finland with Middle Eastern “refugees.”

    These are the things Russia does, but the Finnish government understands that and acts firmly.

    It prohibited Russian purchases of sensitive land and it closed all border crossings to Russia.

    Unlike Germany, it has a strong defense. Finland does what Theodore Roosevelt recommended: “speak softly and carry a big stick!”

    The West needs to move on from the incompetence on Russia characteristic of the US, Germany, and France, eminently depicted by Sylvie Kauffmann in her book “Les Aveuglés” (“The Blindsided”).

    The size of your country does not determine the quality of your foreign policy thinking. The West would be well advised to listen to wise politicians from Finland or Estonia rather than fools in Washington, Berlin or Paris.

    • This article was first published in www.kyivpost.com
  • Leadership insights: 40 minutes with Governor Oyebanji (1)

    Leadership insights: 40 minutes with Governor Oyebanji (1)

    I recently had the honour of visiting Ekiti State, where I embarked on a self-guided tour to explore the projects completed or underway by Governor Biodun Oyebanji. From the bustling streets of Ado-Ekiti to the quaint towns of Ikere-Ekiti, Ikole-Ekiti and Oke Ako-Ekiti, Oyebanji’s transformative initiatives have inspired optimism among residents, who appreciate his people-first leadership.

    As I concluded my tour, I sought out the governor’s perspective on his administration’s progress. Our thoughtful discussion revealed a leader committed to redefining the boundaries of possibility for all Ekiti residents. With his dedication to the welfare of his people, Oyebanji indeed stands out as a refreshing anomaly in today’s political landscape. This commitment to progress is further reflected in his own assessment of his administration’s accomplishments.

    Assessment of Administration

    “As the elected governor of Ekiti State, I believe it’s not my place to assess my own administration. Instead, I leave that to the people who elected us into office. However, I can confidently say that over the past two years, we’ve made significant progress in delivering on our campaign promises, particularly across the six pillars of our administration: Governance, Youth Development and Job Creation, Human Capital Development, Agriculture and Rural Development, Infrastructure and Industrialization, and Arts, Culture and Tourism.

    “My greatest joy is that we’ve been able to restore trust in government, which I believe is essential for effective governance. We’re committed to continuing this progress and ensuring that our social contract with the people of Ekiti State is fulfilled. During my election campaign, I pledged to be open, responsive and responsible, and over the past two years, we have worked tirelessly to uphold these values, earning recognition from nearly all the critical stakeholders in the state for our commitment to transparency and accountability.”

    Economic Development

    “Our campaign is built around the concept of Shared Prosperity, ensuring that everyone, regardless of background or education, can enjoy a quality life. In Ekiti, we believe that everyone deserves to live well. To drive growth, we’re focusing on supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), which are the engine of our economy.

    “We recognize that security is a critical prerequisite for development. As a government, we’re committed to making a distinction between growth and development. While growth refers to an improvement in per capita income, development is about building infrastructure and creating opportunities for all. Ultimately, our goal is to create a secure and prosperous Ekiti State where everyone can thrive.

    “Ekiti State’s development strategies are designed to catalyze growth for the people. We’ve established the Bureau of Local Content to ensure that a percentage of our physical projects is reserved for locals. This approach promotes local economic growth and reduces capital flight. Contractors working in Ekiti State are required to retain a percentage of their income within the state, encouraging local investment and ensuring the state benefits from its development projects.”

    Read Also: Governor Oyebanji’s one year in office

    Healthcare and Education

    “Health and Education fall under our Human Capital Development pillar, built on the principle that ‘Health is Wealth.’ Upon taking office, we prioritized stabilizing the health sector, which had been plagued by low worker morale due to poor conditions of service. We addressed the disparity in health workers’ salaries, bringing them in line with federal rates. Notably, we’re one of the first states to pay Hazard Allowance, despite being one of the poorest states. We also pay the Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF) and have allocated funds to upgrade the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH) facilities.

    “We’ve taken significant steps to boost the morale of our health workers, including paying CONMESS and CONHESS to health workers at both the state and Local Government levels. This move has greatly reduced the number of health workers leaving local and state facilities to work in federal facilities. We’re currently renovating 11 health facilities across Ekiti State, equipping them with necessary tools and attracting more doctors to the state. Our goal is to ensure that healthcare services are available, affordable and accessible to all.

    “Our flagship Health Insurance Scheme, Ulerawa, has been a game-changer, with many individuals, including pensioners, enrolled in the program. Recent statistics show that we’ve achieved a significant reduction in mortality rates in the state – a first in decades. This accomplishment builds upon the foundation laid by my predecessor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, and demonstrates the value of continuity in governance.

    “Our education strategy is built on the idea that the quality of education depends on three key factors: what you teach, where you teach, and how you teach. We’re focusing on developing a relevant and up-to-date curriculum, improving teacher training and methodology, and creating a conducive learning environment. We’re upgrading our curriculum, providing teacher training and re-training, and increasing subvention to our tertiary institutions. We’re also incentivizing our teachers and prioritizing the teaching of STEM subjects.”

    Itawure-Aramoko-Ado Ekiti Road

    “I’d like to commend President Bola Tinubu for his efforts in improving road infrastructure in Ekiti State. During my campaign, I made a promise to the people of Ekiti State, and I intend to keep it. One issue that’s important to address is the Itawure-Aramoko-Ado-Ekiti Road, which is a federal road. As such, Ekiti State Government does not have the authority to make changes to this road.

    “The current protocol for reconstructing federal roads isn’t feasible for Ekiti State, as it doesn’t provide for refunds. Unless we receive assurances from the Federal Government that it’ll refund us or allow us to toll the road, we can’t move forward.

    “As the governor, I must be mindful of the state’s resources – if Ekiti State were my company, I wouldn’t spend its resources without a clear plan for returns. Fixing a federal road, for which we won’t be reimbursed or able to toll for revenue, would divert funds away from our state roads.

    “To mitigate the challenges posed by the poor condition of the federal road, we’ve reconstructed and prepared alternative state roads that offer a smoother journey to Ado-Ekiti. Specifically, we’ve identified and upgraded routes through Efon Alaye, Ipole Iloro, Ikogosi, Erijiyan and Ado-Ekiti, making them truck-free by installing barriers. This demonstrates effective governance in action.

    “Meanwhile, we appreciate the Federal Government’s efforts in constructing the Akure-Ita Ogbolu-Ikere-Ado-Ekiti Road. However, I am currently seeking over N200 million to pay for the houses that were demolished in Ikere-Ekiti to pave the way for the completion of that road. Unfortunately, this amount will not be reimbursed by the Federal Government.”

    Continuity of Projects and Policies

    “As the first back-to-back government in Ekiti State, we’ve seen a mix of policy changes and continuity. Our campaign is focused on Continuity, and we’ve delivered on that promise by completing most of the projects started by Governor Fayemi. I was able to do this because I was part of that government and believed in the projects’ reasoning. We’ve even improved upon some of them.

    “We’ve also made progress on secondary facilities in the state. Governor Fayemi completed and equipped 10 or 11 of them, and we’ve started work on the remaining ones. This continuity benefits the people, as we’re not starting from scratch. Instead, we’re building upon existing foundations.

    “Our administration is guided by a 30-year Development Plan launched by Governor Fayemi. My manifesto is an offshoot of this plan, making it easier for us to execute our projects. Also, the Ekiti State Transition Law makes it mandatory for successor governments to complete their predecessors’ projects. This law has not been revoked, and we aim to complete these projects before leaving office.”

    • To be concluded.
  • Climate change: COP-29 outcome and implications for Africa

    Climate change: COP-29 outcome and implications for Africa

    • Adebayo Matthew, Adeleye

    COP 29 is the 29th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP) which took place in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11 to 22, 2024. This conference was a vital moment for the world, as it aimed at securing a new goal on climate finance, ensuring every country had the means to take stronger climate action, slashing greenhouse gas emissions, and building resilient communities.

    SOME KEY OUTCOME OF COP 29:

    •New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) on Climate Finance: Developed countries have committed to mobilizing at least $300 billion per year by 2035 for developing countries, including those in Africa, to support their climate action efforts. This implies securing a new goal on climate finance, Ensuring that developed countries provide financial support to developing countries to help them transition to a low-carbon economy.

    •Enhancing national climate plans: Encouraging countries to develop and implement more ambitious national climate plans, known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

    •Global Goal on Adaptation: Parties are on track to finalize the work on adaptation indicators to track progress in implementing the global goal on adaptation by COP30 in 2025. This is Scaling up climate action: Promoting the implementation of climate change mitigation and adaptation actions, including the transition to renewable energy sources and the development of climate-resilient infrastructure.

    •Carbon Markets: The adoption of Article 6.2 and 6.4 decisions on carbon markets will allow African countries to initiate new carbon market projects, facilitating investments in green technologies and economic opportunities.

    •Supporting vulnerable communities: Providing support to vulnerable communities, including small island developing states, least developed countries, and African countries, to help them adapt to the impacts of climate change.

    Overall, COP 29 was a critical opportunity for world leaders to come together and take collective action to address the climate crisis.

    Implications for Africa

    Africa is disproportionately vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, despite contributing relatively little to global greenhouse gas emissions. The outcomes of COP29 have significant implications for the continent, including:

    •Increased Climate Finance: The new climate finance goal will provide African countries with much-needed funding to support their climate action efforts, including transitioning to renewable energy, promoting sustainable land use, and enhancing climate resilience.

    •Enhanced Adaptation Efforts: The global goal on adaptation will help African countries to better prepare for and respond to the impacts of climate change, such as droughts, floods, and heat waves.

    •Support for Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: The Loss and Damage Fund will provide critical support to African countries to build climate-resilient infrastructure, including sea walls, levees, and green roofs.

    •Opportunities for Green Growth: The carbon markets decision will create new opportunities for African countries to develop green industries, promote sustainable economic growth, and reduce their carbon footprint.

    Overall, the outcomes of COP29 offer a mixed bag of opportunities and challenges for Africa. While the increased climate finance and enhanced adaptation efforts are welcome developments, the continent still faces significant challenges in accessing and utilizing these funds effectively.

    Recommendations for Africa

    To fully leverage the outcomes of COP29 and address the pressing challenges of climate change, African countries must:

    v Develop and Implement Robust NDCs: African countries must develop and implement ambitious NDCs that align with the goals of the Paris Agreement.

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    •Enhance Climate Governance: African countries must strengthen their climate governance structures, including the establishment of national climate change councils and the development of climate change policies and laws.

    • Promote Climate Education and Awareness: African countries must promote climate education and awareness, ensuring that citizens understand the causes and impacts of climate change and are empowered to take action.

    •Foster International Cooperation: African countries must foster international cooperation, including partnering with developed countries, international organizations, and civil society organizations to access climate finance, technology, and expertise.

    As Africa continues on its journey towards a climate-resilient future, the outcomes of COP29 serve as a beacon of hope. With renewed commitment and determination, African countries can leverage the opportunities presented by COP29 to build a sustainable, prosperous, and climate-resilient future for all.

    COP29 as a Stepping Stone for Nigeria’s Climate Resilience

    For Nigeria, the outcomes of COP29 present both opportunities and challenges. The new climate finance goal of at least $300 billion annually by 2035 is a welcome development, as it will provide much-needed funding for Nigeria’s climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts.

    However, Nigeria must also take bold action to address its own climate change challenges. This includes developing and implementing robust Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) that align with the goals of the Paris Agreement.

    Furthermore, Nigeria must prioritize climate education and awareness, ensuring that its citizens understand the causes and impacts of climate change and are empowered to take action.

    In conclusion, COP29 marked a crucial step towards a climate-resilient future for Africa and the global community. As Africa looks to the future, it must remain committed to addressing the challenges of climate change, leveraging the opportunities presented by COP29 to build a sustainable, prosperous, and climate-resilient future for all African Countries.

    • Adebayo Matthew, Adeleye (Ph.D., Ibadan)
    • Researcher on Environmental Pollution and Control badeleye@gmail.com  +234 803 525 6450
  • Biodun Oyebanji: 57 Garlands for the people’s governor

    Biodun Oyebanji: 57 Garlands for the people’s governor

    • By Olayinka Oyebode

    Two major events that happened at two different locations in Ekiti State earlier in the month, again laid credence to the primacy of capacity, character and compassion in the leadership style of Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji. First was the event at Oke Ako Ekiti, in the north senatorial district, which featured the distribution of cheques totalling N160 million as compensation to land owners whose land were acquired for the commercial farming scheme for young farmers and the flag- off of some newly purchased tractors and other equipment. The second event which came barely 48 hours after was the distribution of cheques totalling N140 million to some young farmers as payment for the farm produce off-taken from them across the six farm clusters.

    The gist here is that the chains of activities- the land acquisition, the compensation and the utilisation of the acquired land, the first harvest and the off-taking of the harvested crops as well as the purchase of tractors and other equipment required for the tractorisation policy of the government was completed within the space of six months of the introduction of the scheme, code-named “Bring Back the Youth Into Agriculture” a programme run in partnership with a private investor.

    Four weeks earlier, in a move aimed at achieving energy independence and ensuring that his administration’s huge investments in power infrastructure achieve the desired result, Governor Oyebanji had granted operational licence to 14 investors which included three distribution companies, four power generating companies, two mini-grid generation companies and five meter asset providers. The pace-setting and strategic move is to enhance power generation, ensure efficient distribution and provide reliable metering for residents. The goal is to move the state from the 20-25 mw it gets from the national grid (which falls short of the estimated requirement of 120mw) and move up to 130mw through a robust state grid, reducing dependency on the national supply and promoting sustainable. locally managed energy solutions. Again, the initiative, which aligns with the 2023 Electricity Act, was achieved within the space of a year that also witnessed a massive power upgrade and re-connection of many communities that hitherto were without power supply to the national grid.

    Remarkably, Oyebanji is quite intentional about putting smiles on the faces of the people. Moved by the plight of Ekiti pensioners in the face of accumulated gratuities inherited from previous administration, the Governor, had in the last two months paid a total 4.5 billion naira to offset part of the outstanding gratuities. This is outside the regular monthly payment of gratuities. Aside supporting and equipping workers in the state to ensure a more excellent service delivery, the Governor put extra smiles on the faces of Ekiti teachers earlier in the year, when he directed that primary school teachers with degree qualifications should enjoy career progression to level 16 like others. This is in addition to extending car and housing loans to them, thereby bringing them out of an age-long policy that had suppressed them. The community of people with disabilities have also found a champion in Governor Oyebanji, who through his inclusion policy has not only created a government department headed by a cabinet –ranked officials and saddled with their welfare. This has resulted in a greater attention for the welfare and human capital development of PWD, with attendant huge investment in the upgrade of the state special schools and establishment of a trauma centre for children with disabilities.

    These, and several other cutting-edge initiatives that authenticate the welfarist approach of his government and underscores his compassionate nature as a leader as well as his sheer determination to create economic opportunities for the people, are what stand Governor Oyebanji out as a true leader of the people, who is happy only when the people are happy and progressing.

    And because the people know that  “BAO” or “Talk- and- do Governor”, as he is fondly called, is passionate about their welfare and wellbeing, they have chosen to celebrate him not only on his birthday, but on daily basis and with the same level of energy and dexterity with which he serves them.

    As the renowned American author and speaker, John C. Maxwell puts it, a leader is someone who knows the way, goes the way and shows the way”.  Governor Oyebanji has a clear vision, which he communicates quite eloquently with corresponding actions. He walks the talk and he helps the people achieve their vision and purpose as well. This, many people believe, had provoked critical stakeholders in the state, including all former governors, to endorse him for a second term even before he marked his second anniversary in office.

    Those who live by their strength may readily provide an answer to the question bordering on how they surmount obstacles and stay on top of their game. But those who live by the power of the Almighty God and the attendant grace can’t make such boast. Rather, they work hard, they work hand-in- hand with others, and they let God be God over everything- directing each step all the way through the paths that eventually yield boundless rewards. This is the story of the Omoluabi Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji as he clocks fifty-seven years old today.

    Read Also: Biodun Oyebanji: garlands for true Ekiti homeboy at 54

    Those who have followed Oyebanji’s trajectory right from his undergraduate days, know that his political philosophy is built around the social democratic principle of lifting and supporting the weak and the vulnerable in society as well as the biblical injunction of love thy neighbour as yourself. An apostle of soft leadership, BAO’s  genuine concerns include how transformational leadership can replace transactional politics; how to build strong institutions that will support growth and development; how to make government wear human face; how to get every citizen to contribute to state and nation building, each utilising his talent, time, platform and resources; and what mechanism should be put in place for genuine and effective empowerment of the citizens towards the attainment of shared prosperity for all.

    Governor Oyebanji is disarmingly humble. He proudly wears humility like a garment. He possesses an insatiable appetite for championing good causes. In a recent interviews with state correspondents, he told them the secret of his calmness. According to him, he had committed the state into God’s hands, hence he is not under any pressure. Those who have come in contact with him, and, indeed a vast majority of Ekiti people, believe humility remains his greatest asset.

    As a change agent, BAO believes a leader must live in the hearts of the people by serving them diligently and faithfully, knowing he is accountable to the people and would give account of his stewardship to God one day. He believes trust is a public good without which no great thing can be achieved collectively. Hence, he believes trust has to be earned. As a leader, he embodies creativity, character, competence, and compassion with passion for excellence.

    Born on December 21, 1967, in Ikogosi-Ekiti, Oyebanji had his early education in his home state. He bagged a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science from the Ondo State University (now Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti) in 1989 and Masters’ degree in Political Science (International Relations and Strategic Studies), from the University of Ibadan in 1992.

    He started his career as a Lecturer at the Department of Political Science, Ondo State University, Ado-Ekiti, and worked for four years (1993 – 1997) . He later proceeded to work as Manager, Treasury, and Financial Services at the defunct Omega Bank Plc (now Heritage Bank) till May 1999, when he commenced an illustrious career in politics and governance.

    Since embracing public service in 1999, he has served in various capacities with different administrations. He also served as Secretary to Ekiti State Government between October 2018 to December 2021, when he resigned his appointment to join the governorship race, which he won on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in June 22, 2022. He was inaugurated Governor of Ekiti State on October 16, 2022.

    A devout Christian, Oyebanji sees his career in politics and governance as a divine calling. This philosophy remains his guiding light as he continues to serve God and country diligently as a loyal party man and conscientious public servant.

    In recognition of his inspirational life journey, BAO has received many awards and recognitions. He was named Governor of the Year (2023) by Daily Independent Newspaper and Marketing Edge Magazine. He is also a recipient of the Ekiti Exceptional Achievers (MEEA) Award, granted in recognition of his contributions to the creation of Ekiti State as Secretary, State Creation Committee and Secretary, Ekiti State Development Fund.

    Oyebanji is married to Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, an Associate Professor of Educational Management, University of Ibadan. They are blessed with three children.

    As he celebrates another year of impact, Oyebanji remains an inspiration to both existing and aspiring leaders and a symbol of boundless grace. At 57, his legacy of integrity, innovation, loyalty and generosity of spirit continues to shape political narratives and inspire generations to come.

    • Oyebode is Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor, Ekiti State
  • Zamfara: Where strangers rule

    Zamfara: Where strangers rule

    By Abubakar Musa

    It is a general belief among Africans that inheritance is a sacred trust, passed from one generation to the next by birth-right. So, only when a person dies without an heir, might strangers step in to assume the role of caretakers, guided by a solemn duty to honour the deceased’s legacy. In all cases, inheritance is certainly not transferred when the principal is still alive. Yet, in Zamfara today, it appears that Governor Dauda Lawal Dare has taken this principle of inheritance and turned it on its head. This would explain why despite Zamfara being a state filled with capable sons and daughters, he has instead chosen to fill key positions in his administration with appointees from outside Zamfara, appointing “strangers” to influential roles within his government.

    While some, especially those whose houses are not on fire, may argue that expertise knows no boundaries and that a governor should appoint the most qualified individuals regardless of origin, Governor Dauda’s actions have nonetheless triggered a backlash and rightfully so. This is because, these appointments inadvertently imply that there are no competent Zamfara natives available to serve, or that his trust in his people only extends as far as securing their votes, and this is most unfortunate.

    It goes without saying that this perception, whether intentional or not, reflects poorly on his administration’s commitment to empowering Zamfara’s own talented professionals and leaders of which there are many traversing every field of human endeavour.

    The consequence of Dauda’s appointments is a heightened sense of distrust that is now festering in Zamfara and no one can blame the people. It’s not every day that a state known to command its fair share of educated professionals, seasoned politicians, and capable leaders across sectors overlooks them to import personnel to man so many pivotal roles. This could only mean one thing, that Dauda does not believe his people are qualified to occupy these positions. That he believes competent hands can only be found beyond Zamfara’s borders. This raises pertinent questions about all his other appointments. I suspect Dauda could have appointed his entire cabinet from outside the state if he believes he could get away with it. I believe the governor ought to be told that his approach undermines the state’s human capital and the very individuals who helped bring him to power. He must be told that his actions imply that while he values the votes of Zamfara indigenes, he does not value their ability.

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    Everywhere in Nigeria’s complex federal structure, states intentionally empower their indigenes, offering them leadership opportunities as a means of nurturing home-grown talent. By elevating locals, governors are inadvertently strengthening their state’s identity, building institutional knowledge, and preparing individuals to represent the state on national stages. Sadly, Dauda’s strange decision to appoint so many from outside Zamfara is not only seen by many as puzzling, but also as an affront to the collective intelligence and potential within Zamfara.

    Of all the appointments given to outsiders as illustrated below, only that of Professor Kabiru Mato from Kaduna State, drafted in as Special Adviser on Policy and Administration carries a semblance of deep knowledge. Even here, many have questioned the wisdom behind appointing a university professor as an adviser when other states prefer very young vibrant individuals to man such roles.

    As for the rest, people like Ibrahim Modibbo from Adamawa State who is the Special Adviser on Protocol Matters, Mannir Baba from Taraba State who holds the significant role of Principal Private Secretary to the governor and Barau from Niger State who is the Economic Adviser to the governor, these are roles that can be conveniently filled by Zamfara’s avalanche of seasoned professionals and leaders.

    Others like Suleiman Bala Idris from Kano State who plays the role of the governor’s spokesperson and Rakiya Ahmad Dodo who hails from Katsina State and heads the Zamfara State Internal Revenue Service as its chairperson are very disturbing. Such blatant disregard for home grown talents is, to say the latest, demoralising to Zamfara indigenes who possess the right qualifications and experience but who have been passed off for these ‘wayfarers’.

    Indeed, the sheer number of these appointments from outside the state is not just unusual; it has become a point of contention. The point must be reiterated that Zamfara, despite its challenges, has capable people who could have occupied these posts. By choosing otherwise, Dauda has effectively endorsed a narrative; an indictment that Zamfara lacks qualified individuals, and this interpretation is not only far from flattering for his administration, it is an insult to the hardworking people of the state.

    No surprise that these appointments have predictably, reignited discussions around Dauda’s identity. Many can recall the identity controversies surfaced during his campaign, questioning his ties to Zamfara and his loyalty to its people. Unless one wants to play the ostrich, it is very clear that Dauda does not trust his people and is using these key appointments to alienate himself from the community that trusted him with the governorship. This decision already casts an ominous shadow over his administration. It gets worse because he has lost touch with the people he was elected to serve, explaining why he is yet to catch wind of the disaffection these self-serving appointments are fetching for him.

    While every state may appoint a few outsiders to specialised positions where local expertise is lacking, Dauda’s reliance on external hires is, by any measure, excessive. It reflects a blatant lack of faith in the potential of Zamfara’s people, making them come off as a charity case, dependent on outside help for effective governance. Other states take pride in cultivating their leaders, who can both serve their communities and gain the experience needed for larger roles on the national stage. Dauda’s approach, by contrast, denies his state’s professionals the opportunity to serve and gain valuable governance experience, earning him the traditional title of Giginya – the African Fan Palm whose shade only provides cover for those very far from it.

    Expectedly, these appointments have fuelled resentment and sparked questions. What does Dauda’s government hope to achieve by filling these roles with individuals from far-flung states? The state’s citizens, who watched his ascent with hope and anticipation, are left to wonder: if Zamfara is good enough to give Dauda their votes, why aren’t they good enough to hold key roles in his administration? The people of Zamfara, who should be the primary beneficiaries of their own government’s opportunities, instead see a roster of outsiders occupying roles they expected to be filled by their own.

    At a time when Nigeria is facing profound social and economic challenges, states are looking inward, developing their citizens, and nurturing talents that can be deployed both within and beyond their borders. Sadly, Dauda is doing the opposite. Empowering local talent not only builds state pride but also strengthens the entire nation. How Does Dauda not see that with every appointment from outside the state, he’s distancing himself from this vision, creating an administration that feels alien to those it governs.

    The implications of Dauda’s actions are far-reaching. It is my belief that by overlooking local talent, Dauda risks or is already turning his back on the very people he was elected to represent. This disconnection could become a point of friction in future interactions with his constituents, who may begin to view his administration as detached and dismissive of their contributions and nobody will blame them. He already faces criticism from those who perceive his decisions as a betrayal of Zamfara’s trust, compounding the identity questions that have dogged him.

    Ultimately, a government’s strength lies in its relationship with the people it serves. For someone who can’t be blamed for nurturing a second term ambition, Governor Dauda’s government, populated as it were with “strangers” at key levels, will certainly struggle to reconnect with the people of Zamfara on a meaningful level.

    His approach already sends the message that Zamfara’s talents are expendable; at worst, it projects a fundamental distrust between the governor and his people and this could prove costly for his future ambitions. As Governor Dauda moves forward, he must remember that the truest legacy is built not by outsiders, but by those whose lives and fortunes are woven into the very fabric of Zamfara. Ultimately however, he must remember that it is to these people he will return to seek re-election if he makes it that far.

    •Musa writes from Abuja.