The Nation Newspaper

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  • Time to end the politicisation

    Time to end the politicisation

    By Sani Bala

    One of the greatest setbacks of Nigeria’s democracy has always been the political class’ preoccupation with petty politics where serious introspection and collective action is required. Nowhere has this ugly practice appear more glaring than in the ongoing stream of steady fire from the PDP in Zamfara and by extension, Governor Dauda Lawal Dare directed at the minister of state for defence, Bello Matawalle.

    It becomes even worse considering that all this pettiness is happening in the face of worsening security crisis in Zamfara State, and the broader Northwest, where, one would have thought the imperative for the focus of all political actors to be on solutions will be most glaring. Unfortunately, we are witnessing deepening divisions to the detriment of peace.

    It is not news that the security challenges in Zamfara, marked by banditry, kidnappings, and general lawlessness, have caused untold suffering to innocent citizens. Yet, instead of working together to tackle this pressing issue, we are seeing daily political bickering, particularly from the PDP in Zamfara, which has made continuous attack of the Minister of State for Defence, Matawalle, a daily dose even to the point of calling for his resignation based on baseless allegations. This politicization of the fight against banditry is both reckless and counterproductive.

    Governor Lawal Dare and the PDP are of course free to engage in politics; that is the system that brought him to power. However, not of the kind that involves such bitter name-calling and accusations. Zamfara and the entire northwest are facing an unprecedented wave of criminal activities, making the region a hotbed for kidnappings and banditry. It is expected that a situation such as this which demands governance and unity will be motivation enough to deter politicians from bitter politics. Sadly, the opposite is what we have witnessed.

    Do we really need to tell the PDP and the governor who lives in Zamfara that it is time to set aside political ambitions and rally behind those who are actively working to protect the people? Let it be known that anything less than this would be a disservice to the region’s beleaguered citizens who must now be watching this drama with bitter countenances.

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    It is good that despite the criticisms and all the noise, Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, has remained committed to his presidential mandate, overseeing significant breakthroughs in the fight against banditry in Zamfara and the wider northwest. Recently, alongside the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, Matawalle moved the operational command base to Sokoto, marking a critical step in intensifying military efforts under the Hadarin Daji operation. This coordinated strategy has led to the elimination of several notorious bandit leaders, most notably Halilu Sububu, a dangerous kingpin who had long terrorised the people of Zamfara. Sububu’s removal from the scene, along with many of his lieutenants, is a remarkable achievement in the ongoing fight against criminality in the region.

    The least expected of stakeholders from the region, regardless of political affiliation is to laud these victories. PDP’s attempt to undermine Matawalle’s achievements is therefore the height of political chicanery. The truth is, bandits do not discriminate between PDP and APC members, between Dauda supporters or Matawalle loyalists when they select their victims. The devastation they wreak is indiscriminate, and so should be the efforts to eliminate them. Now more than ever, there is a need for the PDP, Governor Dauda, and other stakeholders to set their differences aside and collaborate with the Ministry of Defence in eradicating these criminal elements.

    Nigerians must praise the character of the minister who despite all the noisy distractions continues to register significant strides not only in military operations, but has also sustained the war efforts through continued engagement with troops on the ground. This he has done by touring various military formations, boosting the morale of soldiers engaged in the fight against banditry and assuring them of the president’s dedication to their welfare.

    The ministry has also deployed more equipment, including aircraft, to strengthen the military’s operational capacity. These are critical steps toward achieving lasting peace in the region. This is why instead of lashing out at such commendable efforts, the Zamfara PDP’s framing of Matawalle’s visit as a political manoeuvre is rather unfortunate.

    Zamfara PDP’s recent statement titled “The Paradox of Leadership: Matawalle’s Visit Amidst Crisis,” ought not to have been conceptualised, let alone released to the public. In seeking to undermine the minister’s efforts by casting them as politically motivated, the party only revealed it was suffering from a chronic case of myopia. This attack demonstrates a failure to grasp the complexities of the security situation in Zamfara and the responsibilities that come with Matawalle’s ministerial role. Far from abandoning his constituents, Matawalle is working to address a national security challenge that requires strategic leadership and bold action. His visits to military outposts are not mere photo opportunities; they are a reflection of his commitment to restoring peace and security in the northwest.

    In times of crisis, political power plays should have limits. No limit is more important than the collective security of the people. The current security situation in Zamfara is one of life and death, not an opportunity for political point-scoring. All attempts to discredit the Minister of State for Defence manifest a dangerous prioritization of politics over the well-being of the people and this should never even be contemplated by a governor whose oath of office is first to guarantee the safety of citizens.

    The path forward is clear: the PDP and other political actors must unite with Matawalle and other leaders in the region to confront the common enemy—banditry. Matawalle has already called on all governors and leaders of thought from the northwest to synergize their approaches in the fight against criminality and the least Governor Dauda and other stakeholders can do is heed this clarion call. The fact that Sokoto is the launch-pad of the current operation is a testament to the fact that the security crisis is not confined to Zamfara alone; it threatens to engulf the entire northern region if not addressed urgently and decisively hence the need for urgent collective action. In this fight, all political parties in the region including the PDP in Zamfara are critical stakeholders who must be seen to be lending a helping hand not tearing down the efforts of those engaged in the security efforts.

    We must all appreciate the fact that Matawalle, the minister of state for defence, though a politician, is carrying a burden that goes beyond political loyalties or personal ambitions. This burden was placed on him by the president, and it involves addressing a national security issue that transcends the local politics of Zamfara. The stakes are too high for political distractions. The people of Zamfara deserve peace and security, not a political spectacle.

    The fight against banditry is complex and long-term, but with continued military efforts and the support of all stakeholders, progress is possible.

    Zamfara is at a crossroads, and the decisions made by its leaders will determine the fate of the region. The PDP’s continued politicization of the fight against banditry is not only unhelpful but dangerous. Now is the time for unity, not division. Bello Matawalle, as Minister of State for Defence, has made commendable strides in combating insecurity and he deserves the support of all political actors, not baseless calls for resignation.

    The future of Zamfara and the entire northwest depends on the collective ability of its leaders to set their differences aside and work toward a common goal – the total liberation of the region from the criminals that threaten its very survival.

    •Bala writes from Abuja.

  • Nigeria: Will Lugard rise up?

    Nigeria: Will Lugard rise up?

    By Omotayo Ishola

    Nigeria was a creation of Lord Fredrick Lugard’s administrative convenience as coined by her mistress who would later become lady Lugard after marriage! Lugard had earlier experimented his “Indirect Rule” in India where he previously served as colonial administrator.

    Unlike India however where the three musketeers of Mahatma Ghandi, Pandit Nehru and Subhas Bose restructured their colonial heritage by creating provinces along linguistic affinity which decisively cemented their federalism with attendant dividends as largest democracy in the world, Nigeria and its founding fathers were unable to wean multi-racial and multi-ethnic Nigeria into a veritable polity that would usher in progress and prosperity to a country that hosts largest population of blacks in the world. Lord Fredrick Lugard must resurrect from sepulchre to rebuild his almost falling house!

    Why could our early musketeers Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, Ahmadu Bello not build a rainbow coalition at independence time in 1960 to lay a solid multi-ethnic democracy for Africa largest country, Nigeria? Perhaps if this had happened, the crisis leading to fall of first republic in 1966 might have not occurred due largely to “gross intolerance” of one another by the leading political gladiators of the period due to their political amateurism!

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    The five Majors that brought terminal end to the political abracadabra of first republic were stigmatized as “Ibo irredentists” paving way for avoidable civil war (1967 – 1970) which cost the lives of an estimated three million Nigerians on both sides of combatants. Imagine three million in this generation to pave way for our political stability and economic development –  a race in which Nigeria was at par with Singapore, Taiwan, South-Korea, India, China, Malaysia at independence time but which these countries had long left us behind to join the league of first world countries of U.S.A., Russia, Japan, Germany and the U.K.? So much as the Jewish nation lost six million Jews in the “holocaust”, so Nigeria lost half of the figure in our avoidable civil war. Even as the creator gave us second chance since 1971 upward to redeem the battered crisis of civil war, a “Jack Gowon” who was fortunate to prosecute the civil war successfully through a coalition of star and tested political geniuses of the period of all divides could not mid-wife our post war economic prosperity in spite of his chorused 3Rs of Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Reconciliation. He pandered and floundered to the amorous perk of office visiting capitals of advanced nations of the world with his alleged jab: “Nigeria’s problem is not money but how to spend it” such that by the time end of his jamboree, the very military foot soldiers who advised him that “1974 was unrealistic” for return to civil rule terminated his reign on July 29, 1975.

    Imagine a General Gowon building on the success of civil war by equally engineering a return to civil rule with ideologically inclined political parties with Abraham Lincoln logic of inclusiveness, tapping all shades of talents into the cabinet? Gowon might have been our closure to military oligarchy of northern hegemony consolidated by the arrivals of Murtala Muhammed, Muhammadu Buhari, Ibrahim Babangida, Sani Abacha and Abubakar Abdulsalam! At the dawn of this republic in 1999, an Obasanjo Presidency that could have been a welcome relief and succour against many years of “locust” became an albatross on account of his own African Big Man syndrome, acting like emperor of Nigeria, crowing and dethroning governors, chairman of parties, including traditional rulers as if his tenure is inelastic. He undid his own reputation and witnessed the funeral of his image as the first Africa military leader to handover to civilian in 1979 by his “third term gamble” which he surreptitiously engineered and coveted but aborted by the National Assembly and some forceful northern politicians! With Obasanjo as a democrat, the world needs not rebuke the Hitlers, Mussolini, Idi Amin, Jean Bokassa and General Abacha!

    As we reflect and introspect to locate where the rains started beating us as Nigerians and Nigeria, the image of the founding father, Lord Lugard resurrects in an analysts mind! Will Lord Lugard rise up from his grave to salvage the nation of his own creation? Various theories have come up for discourse on colonialism and its aftermath.

    There are some pundits including the late eminent jurist, Justice Charles Dadi Onyeama, once a member of legislative council in 1948 who opined that Nigeria got independence too early. There are equally many who believe that Nigeria is a work in progress that there must not be a time limit in our road to growth and development. There are equally racist theoreticians that the Black man whether Nigeria or any other black nation has no date with modernization and civilization, particularly with Francis Fukayana hinting at the “end of history” and that “America will be the last man”.

    But Chinese and other Asian tigers are proving the Fukayana theory wrong on all fronts from their contemporary challenge in economic industrial revolution and technological advancement. Deng Xiaoping of China since 1979 brought a new model of development to modern China by bringing over 800 million Chinese out of galloping poverty within some decades! Lee Kuan Yew did similar miracle in Singapore, a tiny island with no resources but catching up with its Japanese giant in record time. How about the recent industrial power bases in South Korea and Malaysia?

    The past 64 years of our nationhood behoves on contemporary leadership in Nigeria across the political divide to wake up and reflect on the wasted opportunities, chart an ambitious and action packed blueprint for the present and future generation to build a prosperous multi-ethnic nation like no other in this global world and within limited time-lag! The challenges of security flash points – Boko Haram, bandits, herdsmen conflicts, climate disasters, poverty, cyber-crimes and all are not insurmountable.

    Leadership matters; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu must be ready to commit “class suicide”. He, by leadership example, should show the light and let all Nigerians discover their way towards mutual progress and prosperity.

    Two, the government team at all levels in Nigeria need a coalition of interests employing the best brains from opposition parties, civil society, and interest groups including the labour.

    Lord Lugard cannot rise again like Jesus but with a new leadership and paradigm shift from the lethargic past to a new horizon that is unselfish but people-oriented, Nigeria falling house will bounce back to our heritage delayed.

    •Ishola, veteran journalist, legal practitioner and public essayist writes from Ilorin, Kwara State.

  • Rivers’ political crises as acid test of democracy

    Rivers’ political crises as acid test of democracy

    By Mike Kebonkwu

    There is crisis of leadership across Africa; elected representatives and leaders most often do not demonstrate competence and knowledge of running a complex bureaucracy of a state.  They come fixated on power and control of the commonwealth without any blueprint for systematic development of the country.  The elites have poorly managed our polity and diversity after our flag independence across Africa thereby sentencing the continent to underdevelopment and poverty even with our huge resources and mineral deposits which benefit only but a few.  We have also experienced and experimented with unconstitutional government and military rule with almost equally the same result or worse.  There is a viral video in circulation on social media of a black South African wishing for the return of the apartheid White minority regime in South Africa.  

    The video decries pervasive hardship, hunger, poor and failing infrastructure, unemployment, graft and political corruption amongst others.  During the apartheid regime, even though the Blacks had no political power, the people could at least get job  in the farms and afford to eat; there was running water and electricity.  It was almost like the Biblical story of the Israelites to Moses, demanding for return to slavery in Egypt because of hunger where they could at least eat cucumber.  Not long ago in the month of August, 2024 during the hashtag “EndBad Governance”, some disgruntled protesters were literally asking for unconstitutional change of government; hoisting foreign flags.  They cannibalize infrastructures and looted shops and warehouses in misdirected anger, targeting poor victims and fellow sufferers.  The people are hungry and frustrated and there is no end in sight; all their labour is burnt in gasoline which they can no longer afford.  

    Nigerians have forgotten so soon the locusts and caterpillars that laid waste our country during the years of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).  We are confronted with the same political elements with only cosmetic changes after shedding the garment of one party and taking the toga of another, just like the moulting of a snake.  The political class in Nigeria is so fluid; vacillating like the ocean, deficit of integrity and principle. They change parties like they change their panties.  Political and electoral promises are broken with infidelity.

    It took the sacrifice and struggle of genuine Pro-democracy activists, the Students Movement, and Labour unions that galvanized the poor masses, market women and traders to take the country back from military dictatorship.  They were not like the pretenders you have today in the Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), human rights activists   and Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs) merchandizing on socio-advocacy for grants.

    Most of the beneficiaries of pro-democracy struggle tormenting us today were not in the roll call of those who fought for the democracy that they have hijacked today to live large at our expense.  If we did not endure military dictatorship no matter how benevolent, it appears unlikely that we should expect Nigerians to embrace the tyranny of some tin-pot dictators and elected representatives in the garment of democracy.  This brings one to the political insanity that has taken over Rivers State over the recent years.

    It is worrisome that anti-democratic forces have taken over Rivers State.  This should be of concern to every patriot irrespective of political affiliations; especially given the complex mix and complicit of the judiciary and the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies.  The Rivers State elders and politicians have sold their souls at the foot of Midas, the great King of ancient Greek of the 7th Century BC.   The people are grating under the recklessness of their elected representatives after selling their votes and mandates for palliatives during elections. 

    Everybody is guilty and equal victims of induced poverty.  The incumbent governor, Siminalayi Fubara has been under pressure fighting for his political life and survival because he has fallen out of favour with his political godfather both of whom suffer the same malaise of political infidelity and rapacious appetite for power. The governor and  Nyesom Wike, Minister of the FCT have locked horns and it is a fight to finish over the control of the political structure(s) of the state which neither of them can lay claim or entitled to because there was an existing structure which pre-dates them both and which they are beneficiaries, but now seek to sequestrate. 

    This is the reason why the entire elected representatives of the state House of Assembly will purport to resign en-masse like a colony of zombies at the behest of one man in blind loyalty ignoring the effect of their action on the state and people. 

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    It is also the reason the political gladiators don’t care a hoot to recruit arsonists and hooligans to burn down the symbol of democratic institution in the state.   This is the reason it is not difficult to find willing hands as tools to burn down Local Council secretariat because of a sham local government election recently held in the state. What is happening in River State is bigger than the state and is a conflagration that is gathering strength like a monstrous hurricane.

    The frightening dimension to the crises is the complicit of state institutions and security agencies especially the Nigeria Police withdrawing its personnel from duty citing a so-called court order. The Police hierarchy probably failed to understand its constitutional duty and abdicated its responsibility to keep peace at all times without bias or loyalty to individuals or parties. 

    The people of Rivers State have to resist ceding their liberty and political space to arrogant self-seeking individuals and local tyrants.  The police and other security agencies should begin to reappraise their constitutional roles to meet with the international best practices not serving individual’s whims and intuition. 

    There is a constitutional crisis brewing in Rivers State.  We must stop it before it consumes the state and plunge the country into mindless anarchy. The judiciary is playing the ostrich and at the same time orchestrating the crises in Rivers State playing dumb with the law and constitution.   Why would the court close its eyes to the alleged defection of 21 members of the state House of Assembly to another political party when there is no crisis in their original party?  Section 109(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended is clear on issues of defection.  Why is the court unable to give valued interpretation to it boldly? 

    What is morality of three members of the state House of Assembly out of 25 passing the Appropriation Bill and budget?  Where is justice and morality when the same judiciary will now void the same budget and did not have the conscience to speak on the status of the defecting members that birthed the illegalities?  

    We should invest in transforming Nigeria not through lawlessness and corruption but through respect for the rule of law and democratic ethos.   The judiciary must be courageous and purge its ranks of corruption and perversion of justice or risk driving the country to the state of anarchy.  The crisis in Rivers State is an acid test of democracy and the rule of law.  The people of Rivers should not cede their power to tin-pot dictators; they should wake up from their slumber and take their state back from political merchants or risk the alternative, which is anarchy.

    •Kebonkwu Esq, an Abuja-based attorney writes via mikekebonkwu@yahoo.com

  • Ethnic formation, knowledge and rotational presidency

    Ethnic formation, knowledge and rotational presidency

    By Oluwole Ogundele

    Many ethnicities were living in the broad, contiguous geographical region later christened Nigeria in 1914, by the British colonial government under the direction of Lord Frederick D. Lugard. Each one of these ethnic groups had its own independent political system(s) among other cultural traditions such as kinship, belief systems, agricultural/culinary practices, art and science of designing and constructing buildings and burial systems. It is difficult to neatly separate some of these deep and surface cultural behaviours from the age-long phenomenon of local, regional/trans-regional flows and communications. Indeed, every ethnicity is in a state of flux. This development defines every human group to a certain degree.

    Relics of these local and/or global exchanges can be gleaned from the numerous languages and other cultural traditions of the Nigerian ethnicities. In other words, these groups were not strange bedfellows at all. But we may never know the actual names of these ancients living in this territory more than 4,000 years ago. Such modern ethnicities as the Yoruba, Igbo, Edo, Urhobo, Itshekiri and Igala had a common ancestry in antiquity. Ethnic evolution or separation is real and unending. Most of the ethnicities now at each other’s throats usually for political reasons were once members of a super family. Therefore, historical consciousness is pivotal to liberation from monumental ignorance anchored to political instability and backwardness in a myriad of ways.

    Social evolution goes on among the various Nigerian groups. For instance, every language has its own dialects. Words from other cultures are being incorporated into these dialects. The Yoruba language has several dialects which are on their way to complete separation. Ekiti dialect is very difficult for an Egba or Ijebu person to fully comprehend despite the fact that both sub-ethnicities belong to the Yoruba. The same thing applies to the Akoko, Ikale, and Igbomina sub-groups. Igbo language also has its local variations. I want to postulate here, that the complete evolution of these dialects into full-blown languages will happen in the next 500 years or thereabouts. By this token, the Ekiti, Egba, Ijebu, Akoko, and Igbomina among others in Yoruba land would have become separate languages and by extension, ethnic groups. Nothing is fixed once and for all.

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    Despite the fact that Nigeria was a product of Europeanisation embedded largely in self-interest and blatant disrespect for Africans, sustainable development is still light years away. No history and culture-sensitive education. Political maturity and/or uncommon patriotism are/is a panacea for progress. Nigeria has to go back to its roots in a critical manner. The ethnic nationalities need to learn to work for the common good. We must condemn the current ideology of reckless prebendalism which characterises the Nigerian brand of politics. For example, the Igbo and Yoruba among other ethnicities especially in the southern and central regions of the country descended from a common ancestry in the remote past.

    Ethno-religious bigotry has to be wrestled to the ground because it is crippling our common sense and by extension, progress in a wide range of ways. It is a pity that many Nigerians are prepared to die as a result of starvation as long as their uncaring kinsmen are the political rulers. This is one illustration of blind, village solidarity reminiscent of savagery.

    Time is of the essence! There is need to overhaul our political system particularly at the central level. In this regard, the National Assembly working in collaboration with the presidency has to begin to craft a new legislation enshrined in justice and equity. Given our low level of political maturity coupled with the complexity of Nigeria, rotational presidency is a task that must be done. We do not need some “super humans” from outside to teach us how best to manage our local affairs within the context of healthy globalisation. After 64 years of political independence, we should be able to work for peace, a precondition for socio-economic sustainability.

    Every human society has its own peculiarities tied to the apron strings of social history and geography. Nigeria can only be different at its peril. Rotational presidency across the six geo-political zones is a task that must be accomplished. A single term of five years is enough for each president.  Up to now, the political leaders are thoroughly detached from the led. Their (leaders) appalling behaviour towards the ordinary people is very worrying. They do not care a hoot about the agonies of Nigerians. This underscores the reason why for goodness sake, these rulers are still talking of establishing new universities when the old ones cannot be properly maintained. Politicisation of education is most unpatriotic.

    Certainly, our foreign partners are happy that Nigeria has failed to grow up in spite of its huge natural resources and robust human capital. Our failure is a blessing for Europe, America and parts of Asia.  What is Nigeria doing with 109 senators and 360 members of the House of Representatives? In my own opinion, these lawmakers are a socio-economic burden to the country. We don’t need such a huge number particularly now that Nigerians are experiencing unprecedented hardships. Nigeria has the second highest paid federal lawmakers in the world. They are expected to sit for 180 days or thereabouts annually, with a pay of about N30 million per month for a senator. Therefore, it is time to domesticate and enrich the operational box of the Nigerian political culture as a basis for socio-economic sustainability.  Nigeria is a wonderful country where university professors especially in federal institutions, are still being shabbily treated with less than N600,000 (approximately $350 monthly). Not unexpectedly, most federal academics are now languishing in penury. Is it a crime to be a fine brain in Nigeria? It is worrying that some senior academics have turned themselves into errand boys/girls of the powerful political elite as a coping strategy.

    The size of the political elite group has to be drastically reduced. We don’t need more than one third of the current federal lawmakers. Again, their operations should be on a part-time basis. This was the legislative culture during the First Republic. The huge salaries and allowances of our parliamentarians have to be reduced significantly. There should be no space for extravagance and insensitivity as if demons are let loose upon the country. The leaders and the led have to be partners in progress. Currently, Nigeria is very sick! Indeed, the country is in dire need of a major surgery.

    The Nigerian political class members and their gluttonous business associates as well as notorious bootlickers should begin to embrace the principles of idealism or holy spirit-ness. As a matter of fact, the essence of robust humanity is not about what you have fraudulently or otherwise acquired, but what you give to people in order to engender their happiness. Those who are busy maiming and/or killing people as a result of their politics of the belly need to do a rethink. It is an existential reality that everything ends in a box. This is food for thought.

    •Prof Ogundele is of Dept. of Archaeology and Anthropology, University of Ibadan

  • Human Capital Development – Empowering Nigerians for global competitiveness

    Human Capital Development – Empowering Nigerians for global competitiveness

    By Dahiru Ali

    The growth and development of Third World economies are usually hampered, largely, by the extractive nature of their productive bases. This developmental challenge is quite rife in the African continent.

    Take Nigeria as an example; the highest revenue the country ever recorded from the export of crude oil in a year was $35 billion in 2011. As an absolute figure, the amount may seem impressive but it peters out significantly if compared with the country’s productive potential per capita.

    Nigeria is often referenced in very superlative terms as a land brimming with abundant natural and human resources. Nigerians speak of their country with great pride. Of course, they deserve the bragging right. Nigeria is a rich country of very happy people. One in every four black people in the world is a Nigerian, it is claimed. With a GDP of $474.5 billion as of 2019, and growing at 3.19 per cent in 2024, Nigeria has the largest economy in Africa.

    Unfortunately, the Nigerian economy is dependent on the export of oil and other natural produce for its mainstay. In other words, several decades of pivoting Nigeria’s development effort on finite resources have not led to much. This has led successive federal administrations to promise diversification of the productive base of the Nigerian economy, with most, if not all of them, failing to walk the talk.

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    The most epochal decision to catalyse the economic potential of the Nigerian economy on a sustainable basis was taken in 2018 when the National Economic Council (NEC) initiated the National Human Capital Development Program to address poverty and ensure sustainable economic growth.

    This decision may have arisen from the realization that the most strategic growth plan is that which targets individuals as economic agents, or the engine room that drives much needed growth and development on a sustainable basis.

    According to NEC, the “HCD Program is an effort to accelerate more and better-streamlined investments in people for equitable and economic growth in Nigeria.”

    At this juncture, it is timely to address the subject matter of Human Capital Development.

    The World Bank Human Development Project defines human capital as consisting “of the knowledge, skills, and health that people accumulate throughout their lives, enabling them to realize their potential as productive members of society.” In other words, HCD is the painstaking exercise of transforming the human population of a society from being a liability to an economic asset that is required for the transformation of such society along a positive growth trajectory.

     According to the National Economic Council (NEC) HCD document: “Over the past decade, many of the key metrics relating to Human Capital Development (HCD) in Nigeria have been going in the wrong direction. Nigeria’s performance across all major global HCD indices, including the United Nations Human Capital Index, the Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) Expected Human Capital Index, and the World Bank Human Capital Index, is below the global average, as well as below the average for developing economies in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).”

    The reasons for this high rate of underdevelopment of the human capital are not far-fetched, taking into account the low level of budgetary provisioning for education, decrepit state of infrastructure, pervasive state of insecurity and global economic headwinds.

    In boosting a lifeline for the country, the race towards developing the human capital assets of Nigeria may appear belated but the next best time is NOW!

     It is the cornerstone from which the building blocks of the Nigerian economy, post-Covid shall be aligned in aid of the realising the overarching objective of establishing a knowledge-based economy.

    According to the vice president, Kashim Shettima, chairman of the NEC, driver of the Human Capital Development project, the “Program is a lifeline for our nation and built on the collective realization that enough is enough. Enough of the cycles that have held us back; enough of the legacies of unplanned high fertility rates and alarming maternal and under-five mortality rates.”

    Shettima who spoke while launching the Nasarawa State Human Capital Development in Lafia declared that HCD is a treasure which contains solutions to Nigeria’s human “capital challenges by focusing on education, health, and workforce development.”

    Nigeria’s Human Capital Development project is now in the second phase (HCD 2.0) with emphasis on gender and equal opportunities, climate change and sustainability, digital economy and financial inclusion as well as food and nutrition.

    With steady progress being made in attaining the set targets in the three thematic areas of health, education and skills, labour force participation and livelihoods, coupled with the avowed determination of the vice president, as well as the HCD Secretariat towards the attainment of these goals, the presidency is not just walking the talk this time, but resolved to surpass its own targets.

    This is self-evident from the vice president’s declaration that “The unemployment rates, the growing informal sector, and low labour force participation must be reversed. This is the dystopia our Human Capital Development Program is designed to abate, under the mandate of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. For so long, at the National Economic Council, we have debated the ideal nation we wish to build and the paths we are to achieve it.”

    •Ali is an Abuja-based business executive.

  • Otu @ 65: Journey of compassion and transformation

    Otu @ 65: Journey of compassion and transformation

    By Linus Obogo

    In the verdant embrace of Adiabo, Okurikang, Odukpani Local Government Area, where the lush foliage dances with the whispers of the wind and the vibrant hues of nature’s palette inspire the soul, a visionary and an inspiring leader was born.

    Born exactly 65 years today, to Elder and Mrs. Edet Okon Otu, Senator Bassey Otu’s journey began in the modest settings of Adiabo, where he was imbued with values that would shape his future. Growing up in a community rich in cultural heritage and resilience, he learned the importance of service to others. His parents, whose dedication to family and community service laid the foundation for his character, instilled in him the virtues of humility, hard work and compassion.

    As he marks the historic date of his birth today, October 18, the occasion, no doubt transcends the mere ticking of years; it is a remembrance of a life dedicated to progress, inclusivity, and the indomitable spirit of a people yearning for transformation. As we reflect on his illustrious journey, we are reminded of the profound impact he has made through his diverse developmental initiatives in agricultural innovations, educational transformations, investment drives, infrastructural improvements, and unwavering commitment to sustainability.

    As a servant-leader who has gone through the crucibles, it is no brainer, therefore to understand the essence of his leadership. A true visionary, Governor Otu possesses the remarkable ability to inspire and galvanize those around him. His commitment to inclusivity and collaboration has created a culture of unity, where diverse voices are heard and valued.

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    Under his leadership, Cross River State is experiencing a renaissance of hope and optimism.

    Essentially, the governor’s open-door policy is fostering transparency and accountability, allowing citizens to engage actively in the governance process. His humility, empathy, and unwavering dedication to the welfare of the people have endeared him to many, making him not just a leader but a trusted friend and confidant.

    Senator Otu’s visionary leadership transcends the confines of politics; it is a philosophy grounded in service to humanity. He understands that true progress is achieved when every individual is empowered to contribute to the collective good. His ability to envision a brighter future for Cross River State is a testament to his foresight, and as we celebrate his life, we are reminded of the profound impact one individual can have on an entire state.

    Forged through the furnace, Otu’s academic journey is the raw and unvarnished story of a man searching for meaning and answers in great pursuit of knowledge. This was driven by a desire to understand the complexities of governance and community development.

    Otu attended the University of Calabar, where he earned a degree in Political Science. This academic foundation equipped him with the knowledge and skills necessary for a future in politics and public service.

    In public service, he began his career as an astute banker with the long-defunct Mercantile Bank of Nigeria. He served the bank diligently before leaving to pursue greener pastures overseas.

    However, with pressure bearing down so hard on him from his people during his overseas stint, Otu returned to Nigeria to hearken to a call to serve them in a representative capacity. Upon his return, Senator Otu heeded the call and gave his people quality representation in the Green Chamber of the National Assembly. Consequently, he was elected in April 2003 to represent Calabar/ Municipality/Odukpani Federal Constituency. 

    In April 2007, he was re-elected for a second term of four years.

    During his eight-year stint, he was variously chairman, House Committee on Petroleum (Upstream), vice chairman, House Committee on National Population and a member of the House Committees on Power, Ministry of Niger Delta, Inter-Parliamentary Relations, Inter-Intra Party Relations, Environment, Water Resources and Defence.

    Governor Otu’s political career bears eloquent testament to his unwavering commitment to public service. As he ascended the political ladder, his leadership style became increasingly characterized by inclusiveness and empathy. His initiatives were not just about policy; they were about people—empowering them and enhancing their quality of life.

    In 2023, Senator Otu was elected Governor of Cross River State, a position that has allowed him to further amplify his vision for transformational leadership. His administration has been marked by a focus on sustainable development, economic growth, and social equity.

    Under his guidance, Cross River State is experiencing a renaissance in various sectors, from agriculture to tourism, creating opportunities and fostering hope among the populace.

    In the realm of economic advancement, Otu stands as a stalwart for investment and growth. His uncompromising belief in the potential of Cross River State has propelled him to spearhead several investment drives that have already attracted local and foreign investors alike. And with a keen eye for opportunities, he has created an enabling environment that fosters entrepreneurship and innovation.

    The governor’s efforts to promote tourism, agriculture, and environmental sustainability have breathed new lease into the state’s economy. Initiatives aimed at showcasing the rich cultural heritage and the natural beauty of Cross River State have positioned it as a prime destination for tourists. The investment drives he has championed are not just about numbers; they are about building a sustainable future where every citizen can thrive.

    As we celebrate his 65th birthday today, we recognize the profound impact of his leadership in transforming Cross River State into a hub of economic activity and opportunity. His visionary approach is laying the foundation for a prosperous future, where the dreams of the people can be realized through hard work, innovation, and collaboration.

    A visionary leader understands that progress is not merely a destination; it is a journey paved with the right infrastructure. Senator Otu’s commitment to improving roads and rail infrastructure networks is poised to be a game-changer for Cross River State.

    As we reflect on his achievements, however, we should be reminded that the roads we travel are not just pathways; they are lifelines that connect us to our aspirations, dreams, and each other.

    So beyond the halls of power, Otu’s heart lies with the people. His policy on education has had a profound impact on countless lives. He has ensured that over 16,000 Senior Secondary students in the state were enrolled for WAEC exams at a cost borne by the government, amounting to over half a billion naira.

    As a people-centric governor, Otu understands that true leadership goes beyond politics; it is about nurturing the next generation. He has been a mentor to many young leaders, encouraging them to take up the mantle of service and embrace their roles as change-makers. His commitment to youth empowerment is evident in his support for entrepreneurship programs and skill acquisition initiatives, equipping young people with the tools they need to succeed.

    As a leader, his “People’s First” mantra truly sets him apart with his compassion and humility. His “Sweet Prince” moniker reflects not just his demeanour but his belief in the power of kindness and understanding. He listens to the voices of the marginalized and prioritizes their needs, understanding that true governance is about serving the people.

    The path of leadership is always fraught with challenges, thus, Senator Otu has faced his fair share of obstacles. From navigating the complexities of governance to striving to address the expectations of his citizens, he has demonstrated remarkable resilience. His ability to remain steadfast in the face of the challenges buffeting the state speaks volumes about his character and determination.

    The governor’s response to challenges has been proactive rather than reactive. He embraces challenges as opportunities for growth and reform. Whether it is responding to issues of economy or politics, he has continued to demonstrate that effective leadership requires not just vision but also the ability to adapt and innovate.

    He is relentless in entrenching a legacy of transformation and hope. He is a leader who is committed to building an enduring economy that will take the state out of the doldrums. His journey so far serves to remind us that true leadership is measured not by the power one wields but by the impact one makes.

    His story is an endless and exhilarating narrative of triumph over adversity, a testament to the power of compassion, and a call to action for those who aspire to lead. As he continues to serve the people of Cross River State, we look forward to witnessing the continued evolution of his remarkable journey—a journey that embodies the spirit of service, integrity, and profound humanity.

    As we celebrate today the life and journey of Senator Prince Bassey Otu, we recognize not just a politician but a compassionate leader whose actions resonate deeply within the hearts of his people. His 65 years on this earth have been characterized by unwavering dedication to service, transformative leadership, and a commitment to fostering a brighter future for all. As he embarks on the next chapter of his life, we honour his giant strides and eagerly anticipate the positive changes he will continue to bring to Cross River State and beyond. In a world often in need of inspiration, Otu represents a luminous example of what it means to lead with love, humility, and a rock-solid resolve to make a difference.

    •Obogo is Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Cross River State governor.

  • Making the armed forces attractive to Lagos youths

    Making the armed forces attractive to Lagos youths

    By Rasak Musbau

    As Lagos continues to evolve as Nigeria’s economic powerhouse, its role in shaping the nation’s future extends beyond commerce and industry. A critical, yet often overlooked, aspect of this evolution is the representation of Lagos indigenes in the national armed forces.

    Despite its status as the nation’s major urban and economic centre, Lagos faces a significant challenge in ensuring equitable representation within the military and police forces.

    The importance of the military and other security forces is immense in maintaining national stability, protecting sovereignty, and ensuring public safety. For Lagos indigenes, achieving fair representation in these forces is not just about equal access but also about ensuring that the city’s diverse perspectives and unique needs are reflected at the national level.

    Lagos, with its vibrant population of over 20 million people, is Nigeria’s largest city and a melting pot of diverse ethnicities and cultures. However, its indigenes are underrepresented in the armed forces, a striking disparity, given the city’s significant contributions to national development and its strategic importance in national security.

    A military that reflects the diversity of its population is better equipped to address the unique challenges of different regions. For Lagos, this means that the city’s urban security needs and economic interests can be better understood and managed by those in positions of authority.

    Furthermore, a fair representation in national institutions fosters a greater sense of unity and trust. For Lagos, increased presence in the armed forces and other national security outfits would contribute to a more cohesive national identity and help alleviate regional tensions.

    Moreover, enrolment in the security forces opens a wide range of opportunities for Lagos youth. By increasing local recruitment, more young Lagosians can access training, employment, and career advancement opportunities within the armed forces.

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    However, despite the clear need for greater representation, Lagos indigenes face several barriers. These include awareness and access issues, economic barriers, and socio-cultural perceptions. Many Lagosians, especially the youth, may not be fully aware of the opportunities available within the armed forces or may lack the resources to navigate the recruitment processes effectively.

    Additionally, the high cost of education and living expenses in Lagos can limit access to necessary training and qualifications for military service. There may also be misconceptions or stigmas associated with military service that deter potential candidates.

    To overcome these challenges and encourage Lagos youth to pursue careers in the armed forces, several strategies can be implemented. First and foremost, there is a need to demystify military careers and highlight the benefits and opportunities available. Collaborating with educational institutions and community organizations can further amplify these efforts.

    Secondly, the state can invest in mentorship programs and financial support initiatives to help alleviate economic barriers that may prevent Lagos indigenes from enrolling in security forces. Scholarships, training programs, and assistance with application processes can make a significant difference.

    Thirdly, campaigns to promote the value and prestige of military service can help shift cultural perceptions. Showcasing successful Lagos indigenes that have excelled in the armed forces can serve as powerful role models and inspire others.

    Highlighting successful Lagos indigenes that have excelled in the armed forces is crucial in illustrating the potential and success that Lagosians can achieve in these careers. Notable individuals include Admiral Adekunle Lawal (rtd) and Chief Olabode George, who have achieved distinguished careers in the Nigerian Navy.

     Lawal was appointed Military Governor of Lagos State in July 1975-1977 after the coup that brought General Murtala Mohammed to power. He held the position of Lagos State Military Governor until 1977 when he was transferred to become governor of Imo State in 1977. He held this position until July 1978, after which he resumed his career in the Nigerian Navy.

    Brigadier General Sikiru Adebayo, originally from Lagos, has made significant strides in the Nigerian Army, earning respect through his leadership and tactical expertise. General Akinola Olutoye, a prominent figure in the Nigerian Army, hails from Lagos and has made exemplary contributions to military strategy.

    Rear Admiral Michael Abiodun, also from Lagos, has excelled in the Nigerian Navy with notable operational and leadership roles. These individuals highlight the impact that Lagosians can have in military careers and the broader defence sector.

    It is commendable that the Lagos State government has already begun initiatives to encourage more youth to join the Nigerian Armed Forces. The state Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Olugbenga Oyerinde, has highlighted the need to sensitize Lagosians on the benefits of military service.

    Similarly, the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, and the chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Special Duties, Hon. Olawale Age-Suleiman have also emphasized the importance of shifting perceptions and reassuring parents about the safety and benefits of military careers.

    In conclusion, Lagos’s pursuit of equitable representation in the armed forces is crucial for both national unity and development. By addressing barriers to entry and promoting the value of military service, Lagos indigenes can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Nigeria’s armed forces. This is a call to action for all Lagosians, particularly the youth, to recognize the importance of their involvement and to take proactive steps toward achieving a more inclusive and representative military.

    Through increased awareness, support, and advocacy, Lagos can ensure that its vibrant youth population is well-represented and actively contributing to the defence and development of the nation. The time is now for Lagos youth to step up, seize the opportunities, and be a part of this vital national endeavour.

    •Musbau is of the Lagos State Ministry of Information & Strategy, Alausa, Ikeja.

  • INEC: Between progress and criticism

    INEC: Between progress and criticism

    By Ezenwa Nwagwu

    As we move closer to the Ondo governorship election and also prepare for the 2027 general election, there is the need to begin to sound the note of warning early enough for parties to put their structures in place, rather than wait to blame INEC for electoral losses. People who have knowledge about this must speak up. If we don’t do that, we will then be consumed by the lies, half-truth, twisted logic, the propaganda, and the misinformation and disinformation that have become the tragedy of public commentary and engagement after every election.

    My argument has always been that the election is not a one day event. It is a process. Elections are a multi-step process that goes beyond just voting day. The voting itself is just one crucial event within the larger election process. What happens before voting day, including the behaviour or misbehaviour of political parties and politicians, their agents, security officials and indeed the electorate significantly influences the outcome – their victories or losses.

    Unfortunately, are Nigerians paying attention to the factional and leadership crisis within many of the political parties? Sadly, one of the political parties has over a hundred cases in court over leadership tussles. How will this affect their performances in future elections, or do we just wait and expect miracle victories or blame INEC in the eventuality that they lose?

    With that in mind, I will assess our elections by reflecting on where we started and the progress made over the past few years. I have consistently stressed that elections cannot be driven solely by emotions or miracles. Unfortunately, many Nigerians tend to overlook data and evidence. However, the available data clearly indicates that despite contrary claims, our electoral process has indeed progressed.

    The challenge for us is to reconstruct our narrative in a way that single out the places where we need to improve and also highlights where things have greatly improved. Perhaps another narrative we must correct is that Nigerians often mistakenly attribute election-related issues like vote buying and violence to INEC’s oversight. However, these problems fall outside INEC’s direct responsibility and are instead symptoms of broader societal and political challenges that require a collective solution.

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    Before proceeding, we should consider the following questions: Do you remember a time when election results were being announced in Abuja while people were still queuing to vote at polling stations? Isn’t it true that Nigeria has moved beyond the days when results were fabricated inside hotel rooms or when a single person, armed with hundreds of voter cards, could vote multiple times? Haven’t we also progressed from the era of politicians snatching ballot boxes or stuffing them with ballot papers? And isn’t it equally true that, in recent elections, we are seeing more opposition parties win against the ruling parties?

    I believe clear, fact-based and objective responses to these questions, beyond partisanship or emotions, are critical and the answers would form a realistic foundation to determine if we have made progress in our elections or not.

    So let’s engage objectively, factually and dispassionately, in an informed and cordial manner. As we begin our discourse, it is important to carry out a proper and dispassionate interrogation of these reforms or claims of reforms.

    For politicians, politics and elections are games. But for the Election Management Body, it’s a duty.

    Only few Nigerians will appreciate the sheer scale of the logistical effort involved in organizing elections across 176,000 polling units in a country with poor infrastructure and occasional security threats.

    To helm, the electoral body of Africa’s most populous country is a herculean task, one that requires not only administrative competence but also the courage to face constant criticism. INEC is one institution where success often goes unnoticed, and failures are magnified.

    But let’s attempt a closer look at those successes that may have gone unnoticed due to emotions attached to elections in Nigeria.

    Asserting INEC’s independence

    Perhaps one of the best expressions of INEC’s independence was the way it resisted the attempt to force it to organize the 2019 general election in a staggered manner through various acts of sabotage. Nigerians may not even be aware of the incidents of sabotage the Commission faced. That it was able to regroup and conduct the election a week after postponement without compromising its stance not to conduct a staggered election says something about its leadership and independence.

    How could Nigerians have forgotten how this INEC in 2019 bravely prevented the ruling party from fielding candidates in Zamfara and Rivers in its determination to follow the rules no matter whose ox is gored?

    Electoral Law Reforms

     I believe the attempt to rebuild electoral credibility must start with the law. INEC remains a strong advocate of the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2018, which President Muhammadu Buhari vetoed a record four times. It was also central to the Electoral Act 2022, which was eventually signed into law by President Buhari shortly before the political party primaries in 2022.

    It was due to this electoral Act that what happened in Abia, Obingwa, for instance, in the governorship election in 2023 was brought to Abuja, and the votes were recalculated. If you say our elections have not made progress, will you tell that to the opposition candidate that won the Abia election or are you going to tell that to the many Labour Party candidates all around the country who had won election, because if it was when we were writing results in hotels, those people will not smell victory.

    Technology Reforms

    One of his most significant reforms has been the introduction of technology in elections, particularly the use of the Biometric Voter Accreditation System (BVAS). This system, designed to reduce instances of multiple voting and electoral fraud, brought a level of transparency previously unseen in Nigerian elections. Additionally, the INEC Results Viewing Portal (IReV) allowed for real-time transmission of results, reducing opportunities for manipulation and ensuring a faster, more accountable tallying process. These innovations signalled a marked shift in the way elections were conducted, offering hope to millions of Nigerians who had grown disillusioned with the old system.

    Beyond the introduction of technology, Prof. Yakubu Mahmood has also focused on institutional strengthening. Under his leadership, INEC has prioritized engaging CSO leaders as national commissioners.

    When Prof Yakubu Mahmood came in 2015, ten or more active civil society actors were appointed into INEC as national commissioners to ensure transparency in the process. By 2023, the politicians pulled out all of those people, except one or two.

    INEC was fortunate to have two members of the Justice Mohammed Uwais electoral committee serve as its chairman and national commissioner. At least nine recommendations of the Uwais Committee that relate to INEC have been fully implemented, especially biometric registration of voters.

    Critics have pointed to technical issues during the 2023 general elections, such as delays in the transmission of results; we cannot deny the complexities of running elections in a country as vast, populous, and politically charged as Nigeria mean that some challenges are unavoidable.

    My conclusion is that of course, there are challenges with our elections, but while it is okay to criticize we must commend where progress have been recorded. However, Nigerians must invest in knowledge. When political parties who lose elections come to the media to cry that they have been rigged out, we must follow their petitions to the courts. In most cases, their petitions are totally different from what they are saying in the media. They know the reasons for their loss, but will continue to whip up sentiments in public discourse.

    •Nwagwu is executive director, Peering Advocacy and Advancement Centre in Africa.

  • The seismic insecurity in Anambra State

    The seismic insecurity in Anambra State

    By Chekwube Nzomiwu

    Yet again, the insecurity in Anambra State claimed three precious lives penultimate week. The deceased who are members of the crew of Supersport were killed when their vehicle ran into an ambush by gunmen at Iseke, a border town of Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State to Orlu, Imo state. Luckily, security operatives rescued six members of the crew, while one is yet to be accounted for, according to reports in the media. The dead were identified as a cameraman, police officer and driver.

    They were on their way to Uyo, Akwa Ibom State to cover the AFCON qualifying match between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and their Libyan counterpart, when the gunmen struck. This incident occurred on October 8, about three days before the October 11 AFCON qualifier, which the Nigerian side won by a lone goal.

    This latest attack once more brought to the front burner, the terrifying level of insecurity in Anambra State under the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo. Four days before the Iseke incident involving the Supersport crew, the police foiled an attempt to kidnap a foreign expatriate working for a construction company at Ogbunka, Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State. The expatriate, a Syrian national, narrowly escaped abduction, but two of his police guards were shot by the gunmen. The police spokesman in Anambra State, Tochukwu Ikenga who confirmed this report in a statement, said the injured policemen were in stable condition.

    Two days prior to the Ogbunka incident, unidentified gunmen killed two policemen at Uruagu Nnewi community in Nnewi North Local Government Area of the State. According to media reports, the attackers hurled an impoverished explosive device at the police team and it exploded immediately, killing the two policemen instantly at the spot.

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    Between August and September, gunmen attacked three police stations in Anambra State, namely the Divisional Police Station Oba and Nnobi Police Station, both in Idemili South Local Government Area and Nnewi Police Station. The attacks claimed the lives of policemen. Last year, nine members of a United Nations entourage, including policemen, were brutally murdered by gunmen at Ogbaru Local Government while on a visit to an erosion site in the area. 

    Besides the remote areas, the insecurity in Anambra State extended to Awka, the capital city and its adjoining communities, which have all become hotbeds for bloody clashes between rival cult groups. In Awka in particular, people are lynched, maimed, butchered and killed in broad daylight. While the media reports some of these gory incidents, many go unreported.

    Some people would argue though that insecurity is a national malady. However, the situation in Anambra State has assumed a very dangerous dimension that some parts of the state are now being called Sambisa, after Sambisa Forest, the main base of the Boko Haram insurgents in the Northeast.    

    More worrisome is that the Soludo administration appears to have been overwhelmed by the insecurity, which is currently rocking the state like a volcanic eruption. Rather than confront the seismic security situation bedevilling his domain, Soludo, the Chief Security Officer of Anambra State who receives almost N1 billion monthly as security vote, keeps looking for a scapegoat to blame for the insecurity.

    In February this year, he said that the fight against insecurity in Anambra State has been hindered by the infiltration of vigilante operatives by criminals. To me, such an excuse, coming from a governor who took an oath to strive to preserve the Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy, contained in Chapter II of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), sounds ridiculous. Under the aforementioned chapter, Section 14 (2) (b) clearly states that “the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government;”

    Therefore, it is the duty of the government to safeguard lives and property in Anambra State and not the vigilante operatives who are not recognized by the Nigerian law. If Soludo has lost confidence in the vigilante operatives, the constitutionally recognised security apparatuses of the Nigerian state, such as the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps and even the military, are at his disposal.

    The excuse that criminals infiltrated the vigilante operatives cannot be an alibi for the governor’s inability to secure the state. The vigilante operatives are meant to complement the efforts of the security agencies of the Nigerian State who are better trained and equipped in handling security matters. So, what’s the fuss about the infiltration of the vigilante groups?  

    Soludo should please swallow his pride and learn from his nearby counterparts, Peter Mba of Enugu State and Alex Otti of Abia State who have both exhibited the political will and capacity to confront the security challenges on ground when they assumed office. In Enugu for instance, Mba has empowered the police and the military with the necessary equipment, including vehicles, operational and communication gadgets, drones and other advanced technology, needed to confront the insecurity in Enugu State. Surveillance cameras have been mounted all over the Enugu capital city, to monitor the movement of people and vehicles in the city.             

    To attract both indigenous and foreign investors, security is very paramount. The efforts of Governor Mba in the area of security have started yielding results with the influx of investors into Enugu State, to revamp moribund industries, such as the Sunrise Flour Mills Enugu and Enugu United Palm Products Limited, Ibite Olo, Ezeagu Local Government Area of the State.

    Unfortunately, rather than pay attention to the insecurity plaguing Anambra State, which his government used as an excuse for delaying local government election, Soludo appears to be obsessed with how to control the allocation coming to the 21 local government areas of the State from the Federal Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC). Having been obligated by the landmark judgment of the Supreme Court to conduct local government election, which he failed to do for over two and half years, he introduced a bill in the Anambra State House of Assembly, to compel the 21 councils to remit a portion of their allocation to a consolidated account controlled by the state government. In spite of public outcry, the House of Assembly passed the bill, which has now been signed into law. This is ludicrous, considering the fact that the Supreme Court granted the councils financial autonomy.

    Quoting former Senate President, Ahmed Lawan, “the lack of local government autonomy potentially inhibits solutions as well as efforts by the federal and state governments towards addressing the nation’s security challenges.” This statement made by Lawan in an interview with State House Correspondents in Abuja in May last year, aptly corroborates scientific evidence from a research paper published in the International Journal of Public Administration and Management (IJPAMR) Volume 6. No. 4, 2021. Ubi and Akie in the paper titled, “Local Government System and Escalation of Insecurity in Nigeria, concluded that if the local government system functions at full capacity, rural people will be empowered, rural urban migration curbed, local economy enhanced, youths provided with direct and indirect jobs, and thus, they will not be given to crime, which triggers insecurity..” 

    I therefore expect Professor Soludo to live up to his billing as a distinguished Professor of Economics and a consummate public servant, having served at different times as the Chief Economic Adviser to the President, Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria and the de facto Minister of National Planning. He should quickly re-order his priorities by making the insecurity one of the focal points of his administration.

    Soludo should allow the councils to enjoy the autonomy that they were granted by the Supreme Court, to enable them perform optimally. A functional local government will help to end the alarming insecurity in Anambra State. 

    •Dr. Nzomiwu an indigene of Ozubulu in Ekwusigo Local Government Area of Anambra State is a communication scholar, media consultant and political scientist.

  • Yusuf: Garlands to an educational reformer

    Yusuf: Garlands to an educational reformer

    • By Suleiman Hamid

    Saturday October 5 saw an influx of red-capped individuals who flocked to the Eagle Square, Abuja for an important event. Side by side with teachers from the 36 states and the FCT, they were for the 2024 World Teachers Day, where the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) honoured the Kano State governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf for his outstanding performance in the educational sector, alongside his counterparts from Borno, Oyo, Benue, Enugu, and Kebbi states. 

    Governor Yusuf was honoured with prestigious golden award for his exceptional performance in reforming the state’s education sector, during the colourful event. The event was held concurrently as numerous schools all over Kano were undergoing different levels of renovation. 

    Transforming Kano’s educational sector with its sheer size is not a day job, but the signs of correction can be seen and the restoration of confidence in the system is as important as reaching the finish line. So, what is Governor Abba doing right? 

    First, the education sector got the highest allocation of N95 billion from the proposed N350 billion appropriation bill for the Kano State 2024 fiscal year, which is far beyond the UNESCO recommendation. Concerned about funding this humongous allocation, the governor convened an international conference on education recovery to galvanize the support from national and international stakeholders in the education sector including multi-national and bilateral donor agencies. This has translated into the unlocking of donor funds that were hitherto unavailable to Kano State. 

    Another important step the governor took to restore confidence in pursuing higher education by young people in Kano is the settlement of examination fee backlogs owed to local and international examination bodies. The National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies (NBAIS) was owed examination fees for the 2020, 2021, 2022 sessions by the state government. Governor Abba Kabir settled this bill in June and subsequently secured the release of student results which were withheld for three years. He also has paid the sum of N740 million to NECO, NBAIS and NBTE for 2023 examinations.

     In response to the increased difficult living condition in Nigeria that has resulted in increase of tuition fees by the federal government in federal institutions, Governor Abba has so far paid the sum of N1.3billion to 15 federal institutions to cushion the effect of the economy on Kano students. The governor took a step further and paid off the backlog of the graduate and postgraduate students that were sponsored by the Kwankwaso administration in various private universities in Nigeria but left to their fate by the Ganduje administration. These graduates are all now in possession of their certificates, all thanks to Governor Abba. 

     The governor also reviewed the 60-year-old State Education Law and also sent 1,001 graduates with first-class and second-class upper degrees for foreign post-graduate studies in India and Uganda. The students have already cemented their status as leaders in their classrooms by posting golden results ahead of their return to their motherland late this year or early 2025.

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    On the home front, Governor Abba has also approved for the reduction of 50% tuition fee in all Kano state owned tertiary institution to bring relief to the students and their sponsors in the face of economic difficulties in the country. 

    He has also refurbished 73 high-capacity buses to shuttle girls to and from school on daily basis within the municipality local government areas, not excluding the increase by 100% the cost of feeding students in boarding schools across the state, this has translated to expending the sum of N4 billion to supply these boarding schools with food supplies promptly.

     Governor Abba did not stop there; he also bought JAMB forms for 5,000 students in the state. He has also paid the sum of N2.9 billion to different examination bodies for SSCE Examination 2024 for 109,000 students.

    To encourage the enrolment of pupils in primary school across the state, Governor Yusuf approved and released the sum of N1.5 billion for the purchase and sewing of uniforms for Primary 1 pupils numbering more than 800,000 in 2024. 

    A healthy teacher makes a healthy student; the governor has prioritised the welfare of teachers by consistently ensuring prompt payment of teachers’ salary on the 25th to 26th of every month. He has also cleared the backlog of promotion from 2017 to 2022 affecting 39,000 eligible personnel in education sectors, mostly teachers. He has approved the payment and implementation of promotion to 20,542 teachers across the 44 Local Government Areas from 2023 to January 2024 with effect from October 2.

     Additionally, Governor Yusuf has as well released the sum of N300 million to teachers as soft revolving loans. He recruited 5,643 teachers on permanent and pensionable appointment and recruited an additional 4,000 under the BESDA programme. Only recently, he distributed essential teaching and learning materials on a third occasion, spending more than N2 billion. 

    To get back to the classroom: Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has so far spent more than N3.5 billion to fabricate about 80,000 three-seater seats accommodating 240,000 students that were previously sitting on bare floor. 

    The Community Re-orientation Committees (CRC) across the 44 Local Government Areas are currently engaged in renovating and equipping thousands of classrooms in various schools, providing shelter for over 15,000 students at the cost of N2 billion. 

    Aside approving the sum of N5 billion for the construction of hundreds of new standard classrooms across the 44 LGAs, Governor Abba Kabir has also demonstrated profound commitment to restoring the dignity of young people in Kano State by bringing the 26 schools of entrepreneurship and skills back to life. While other schools are currently in various stages of restoration, the governor has officially opened the Kano School of Informatics, the Kano State Driving School, Aliko Dangote Skills Acquisition Centre, among others. 

    Governor Yusuf has once again prioritised education as a tool for positive change in Kano State within record time. He has been fulfilling the promises of periodic provision of free school desks; renovation of classrooms; construction of new classrooms and office accommodation; and teachers’ recruitment. 

    • Hamid writes from Kano.