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Leadership question in Nigeria: Is Tinubu rewriting national narrative?
When Chinua Achebe penned the prophetic political tract, The Trouble with Nigeria, in 1983, Nigeria’s second republic was brutally at an end when a coup cut short the civil rule that commenced in 1979. In that short book, Achebe laid his keen insight on what has ailed the nascent Nigerian state—just barely twenty-three years old: the problem of leadership. What even Achebe could not have known then is that sixty-three years on, and forty years after the book was written, Nigeria would still be battling with answering the leadership question. And we watch as other countries tackle their governance and national challenges and keep making enormous progress, from China to Rwanda, and from Germany to Botswana. When Lee Iacocca, in his bestselling 2007 book then ask, Where Have All the Leaders Gone? we know that is not just a rhetorical question. It is a universal question that resonates much more poignantly within the struggle to make Nigeria work better than it has been doing since independence. So far, Nigeria is still struggling to answer the leadership question—what a leader should make with the available human and material resources harnessed to make the lives of Nigerians worth living.

The struggle to understand what ails Nigeria is brilliantly captured, in equal breath, in Acemoglu and Robinson’s classic, Why Nations Fail (2012). And the answer is that they fail because they neglect the crucial dynamics of building institutions that transcend the selfishness of extraction and primitive accumulation. But then, institutions are not that easily built. And hence we return to the relationship between strong institutions and the strong man. The Rwandan example, like many other states, raises the possibility of an enlightened strong man committedly putting in place institutional dynamics and parameters that would outlast him, and without any iota of doubts about his patriotism. Lee Kuan Yew, the Singaporean strong man, also demonstrates how a strong man could facilitate the transformation of a state’s governance and developmental apparatuses for the benefits of the citizens. It is therefore beyond the pale of any doubt that a weak leader will be able to erect strong institutions, even within a democratic context.

And it remains axiomatic, when we eventually get a strong leader with the mind and the political will to jumpstart the institutional transformation, that the foremost structural move to make is reforming the public service institutions as the bedrock and most fundamental institutional bulwark for backstopping governance and developmental agenda of any government anywhere in the world. This is what history and the trajectories of political development anywhere teach us. To reform the state system is to give the government of the day a rather fair fighting chance of successfully initiating policy designs and implementation backed by the capability readiness of the public institutions efficiently functional in delivering public goods and services.

In this piece, I desire to situate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership profile within the context of the Mo Ibrahim Index of African Governance (IIAG) and the Ibrahim Prize for Achievement in African Leadership. In past commentaries, I have not only called attention to what I called spheres of performance scattered across the continent, but also the unfairness of deploying global indices of governance performance and leadership dynamics that fail to take into consideration Africa’s unique political sociology that constrains African leaders from achieving their highest potentials in delivering the promises of democracy and development for their citizens. This is essentially what recommends the Mo Ibrahim governance and leadership initiatives as a homegrown project that factors into governance assessment what ails the continent and how the African leadership could be encouraged and instigated to get a move on leading.

Read Also: Tinubu addresses Nigerians on Sunday

The fundamental focus of the Mo Ibrahim Foundation (MIF) locates governance and leadership at the center of the transformation of the continent. The MIF defines leadership as the “ability to make choices, assess and take risks, define and order priorities”, and the prize highlights exceptional role model by recognizing and celebrating African executive leaders “who, under challenging circumstances, have developed their countries and strengthened democracy and human rights for the shared benefit of their people, paving the way for sustainable and equitable prosperity.” And yet, the leadership deficit on the African continent keeps rearing its ugly head—increasing prevalence of coups, the terrible sit-tight syndrome, insecurity and under-performing democratic experiments. And this manifests in the unfortunate gaps the Mo Ibrahim Leadership Prize has witnessed over the year. Two awards were given in 2007 (Nelson Mandela of South Africa and Joaquim Chissano of Mozambique), and another one in 2008 to Botswana’s Festus Mogae. There was a two-year gap before Pedro de Verona Pires of Cape Verde for the prize in 2011. There was another two-year lull before the prize was awarded to Hifikepunye Pohamba of Namibia in 2014. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf won it in 2017 and Mahamadou Issoufou of Niger won the 2020 edition.

In all, only seven African leaders have won the prize in its seventeen years of existence. For three consecutive years now, the prize has not been awarded. This dismal performance is further underscored by the key finding of the 2022 IIAG which warns about the possibility of losing the gains of the last decade, from 2012 to 2021 because of the increasing flattening of overall governance since 2019 and the unraveling dynamics of insecurity that are rolling back democratic possibilities on the continent. Those who have won the award have been chosen because of their transformational style of leadership. And unfortunately, no Nigerian political leader has won the prize. Of course, the operation of the prize award has been the subject of severe analysis on its modalities and decisions. The award to President Issoufou in 2020 raised a lot of outcries on how to correlate the former leader’s ambivalent governance credentials with the MIF’s commitment to governance and democracy. Indeed, others have argued that given that so many African leaders who deserved the prize have not received it, then there must be some other criteria at play in awarding the prize.

These ruminations around the MIF and the IIAG allow us to ask the critical question of how its ramifications can allow us interrogate how Nigeria, through the Tinubu administration can regain its governance possibilities in global and regional reckoning. Winning the leadership prize does not necessarily delineate the possible success of the administration, but the IIAG provides sufficient modality around which the success of the new administration could be fairly assessed. The IIAG is subsumed into four crucial categories for mapping good governance: safety and rule of law, participation and human rights, sustainable economic opportunity, and human development. This is adequately with the vision and mission of the African Peer Review Mechanism.

If we take seriously the MIF definition of a leader as a political executive with the ability to make critical choices, assess and take risks, as well as define and order priorities, then we immediately see the coalition of several factors that can make the Tinubu administration a success. Coming from the recent sterling performance at the United Nation General Assembly (UNGA), where President Tinubu outline Nigeria’s foreign policy dynamics and spoke unprecedently to world leaders about the urgency of perceiving Africa, and Nigeria, not as beggars but global partners, it becomes increasingly clear that the administration is perceptively adapting and learning on the job. Such a far-reaching statement at such a critical global event must point back to a deeply structured governance articulation at home. And for me, it must pointedly signal the government’s intention and commitment to transforming the public service institutions that underscore any administration’s readiness to succeed through strengthening the capability readiness of these institutions that backstop government’s governance and policy architecture.

There is no doubt that the new administration is now fully in the clear about why the Tinubu administration is assiduously working round the clock to create a viable change space that will create a chain of leadership vision and connection across the critical policy spheres in Nigeria. That space could benefit from the key policy areas outlined by the MIF, with the addition of public service institutional reform. This is my passion, and that passion is founded on what has become an axiomatic administrative truth for me: once the public service system fails, everything else about governance fails. And that truth derives essentially from the known fact that the public service institutions, especially the MDAs, are the engine room for servicing the policy implementation and evaluation successes of any government. And even more so, it is the public service system that carries the weight of the critical policy and governance areas from security to rule of law, from human development to human rights, and from sustainable economic opportunity to democratic participation.

The type of leadership that the MFI leadership achievement prize gestures at is forged within the context of a deliberately designed and capacitated change space—made up of ministers, technocrats, officials, functionaries, nonstate actors and agencies—that the Tinubu administration is already facilitating. It is from within this space that the Nigerian governance narrative which the government has now embarked upon can be recrafted away from the usual and tired trajectories of benchmarking failures to instilling hope and success through a developmental agenda anchored solidly on the antecedent success of reforming those public service institutions that serve as the structural background for making the agenda work for Nigerians.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu stands a very good chance of winning the Ibrahim Prize for Achievement in African Leadership. But the fundamental criterion in this case is answering the leadership question, and transforming the Nigerian narrative from bad management to good governance. And four years have started counting to make good on that transformation.
- Olaopa, Retired Federal Permanent Secretary & Professor of Public Administration tolaopa2003@gmail.com
October 1, 2023
What shared Oct. 1 National Day means for Nigeria-China relations
- By Olalekan A. Babatunde
October 1, is the National Day of both Nigeria and China. There are significant similarities to highlight and in which both countries need to care for in their relations. While the day marks Nigeria’s proclamation of independence from the British on October 1960, the Chinese is marking their 74thNational Day as the founding of the People’s Republic of China that was proclaimed by Mao Zedong, the chairman of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), on October 1, 1949, in Tiananmen Square, Beijing. This predates Nigeria’s independence by 11 years. Nigeria celebrates its 63th anniversary.

It is a work-free day in both countries, with various spectacular celebrations, deeply rooted in history and tradition. Nigeria often commemorates the day with pomp and pageantry while the first week of October is used to be holiday for businesses to enjoy rest and relaxation in China. Both also recognize and award outstanding personalities especially the individuals and groups who helped promote Nigeria-China friendship.

Besides the national day, Nigeria and China share many significant moments in the past that have helped to better understand each other towards fostering closer ties that began in 1971. Their commitment to build community of shared future and development has always been guided by their turbulent history. Because of the two countries’ shining potential, external imperialist aggression, invasion, and colonialism in the case of Nigeria are a few of the inglorious episodes of their encounters in the quest for freedom and nation building.

They have experienced dramatic shifts in power. Nigeria has had ambitious military juntas who interrupted democratic rules while China saw shifts in power between rival factions and the disintegration of empire through corruption and political subterfuge, and the cyclical rise of ambitious leaders to found new empires. This history has profoundly formed the basis of a trustful acceptance of relationship.

As the Chinese Foreign Minister, Mr Wang Yi said during his visit to Nigeria in January 2021, “As a major African country, Nigeria has always occupied an important position in China’s diplomacy in Africa.” Hence, both have demonstrated mutual understanding, mutual trust and mutual support to their 52-year old diplomatic ties.

As the most populous countries and largest economies in their regions, Nigeria and China have come to understand that it is important to lead the way in multilateral engagements towards making life better for their citizens and humanity in general. Both have exerted their interests and influence in their regions. Their nationals are among the most gifted, astute and dexterous workforce on earth, highly mobile and can be found in all parts of the world engaging in one task or the other. So one can assert that their shared national day dynamics interconnected with their demographics, markets, economies and national aspirations.

Read Also: Independence Day: Fed Govt to honour Akinkunmi, 10 others

In areas of their bilateral and multilateral engagements, both have shared a common narrative and their foreign policy objectives have aligned. Examples are non-alignment groupings and anti-imperialist struggles. They often stand together side by side to oppose hegemonic tendencies either in the United Nations or other multilateral groupings like the FOCAC and Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) because of their common understanding of the global geopolitical threat to developing countries. Nigeria and China took fast and coordinated actions against Covid-19 to curb its spread, and in the uproar that followed the alleged mistreatment of some African migrants in Guangzhou in 2020. Nigeria led Africa to mitigate the threat of division and misunderstanding.

In a retrospect of the 52-year old cooperation, Nigeria-China relationship has blossomed over the decades and both are drawing lessons from one another in every area of human endeavour. It is easy to say the relations have been mutually beneficial to both sides. Being a developing country, Nigeria is drawing a lot of opportunities from the world’s second largest economy ranging from manufactured goods, expertise, funding to aid from China and in return, providing suitable business climate as well as a huge source of mineral resources and market for Chinese industries and imports. But on the other side, the day shows the unequal development in both countries. As an industrialized nation, famous for its visionary ideas and ground-breaking infrastructure, China eliminated absolute poverty and high unemployment while Nigeria is still on the journey to address the challenges.

That is why it is crucially important that amid the celebrations, Nigeria and China should reflect on their cooperation. Nigeria has a greater role and responsibility in this regard. The day could be a starting point of long-term commitment to pull resources together to transform their annual historical day into a reflection of more strategic cooperation that promises to reduce poverty, hunger, illiteracy, crime, violence and corruption in Nigeria.

In the current development paradigm, China should continue to share its lessons and challenges just as Nigeria can learn from its experience of rapid development. More than national day is at stake if the two countries would not reflect on their cooperation trajectories and uncover more of their bilateral potential and recreate trust to especially wean Nigerians off corruption, poverty, illiteracy, disease, violence and poor governance.

In a time of global toxic leadership and enormous challenges, Nigerian and Chinese leaderships should listen more to each other and be guided by moral responsibility. Fortunately, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will soon visit Beijing to strengthen the relations and attract investment.

Therefore, both countries should through a shared approach continue to guide the good relationship by showing resilience and solidarity for each other, especially in the context of the multipolar world. The deeper and more enduring diplomatic relations between Nigeria and China are, the more the national day will remain as a bridge between the Nigerian and Chinese people. It is believed that this national day will pave the way for more fruitful cooperation and mutually beneficial initiatives in the years to come.

Diplomatic relations is better fostered when partners learn from their history. It will serve Nigeria and China better if they remain committed to their historical development so as to promote partnerships that will contribute to their sustainable development and build a global community of shared future of all peoples, all countries and all individuals.
- Dr Babatunde is a Fellow at the Nigeria’s Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution.
September 29, 2023
France’s humble pie in Niger
- By Paul Ejime
After weeks of condescending defiance, France has ultimately eaten a diplomatic humble pie served by a former colony. Paris’ ambassador to Niger was whisked away from Niamey in the wee hours of Thursday September 27, two months after President Mohamed Bazoum, the French ally was toppled in a military coup led by Brig.-Gen Abdourahamane Tchiani on July 26.

The junta had on August 28 ordered Ambassador Silvain Itte to leave Niger within 48 hours, accusing him of refusing to honour an invitation to the foreign ministry. His action was in line with the French stand of withholding recognition to the military regime.

French President Emmanuel Macron had insisted that deposed and detained Bazoum was the elected and only legitimate authority in Niger, describing the military regime as illegal.

Following the expiration of the 48-hour ultimatum, the Tchiani-led junta, having effectively severed most contacts with France, with a demand for the withdrawal of some 1,500 French troops from Niger, announced that the ambassador had been stripped of all diplomatic immunity.

Police were subsequently ordered to kick out the French envoy, while Niger citizens staged daily protests at the entrance of the French embassy and military bases in Niamey.

Amid the stand-off and heightened tension, with the envoy helmed in and virtually living on military rations, President Macron announced on Sunday that Ambassador Itte would leave Niger within hours, to be followed by the withdrawal of French troops by year end.

Diplomatic sources have confirmed Ambassador Itte’s arrival in France on a flight via Niger’s neighbouring Chad.

While his deputy is believed to still be in Niger for possible rapprochement in the future, analysts consider this incident as another major diplomatic blow to France in a growing number of its former African colonies given that the military regimes in Mali and Burkina Faso have taken similar anti-French measures.

With two other Francophone countries of Guinea and Gabon also under military dictatorships, the band of African leaders formerly sympathetic to the French cause is shrinking rapidly, yielding place to a groundswell of anti-French sentiments among the citizens.

Read Also: Independence lecture: Collaborate with FG for prosperous Nigeria, Shettima begs Nigerians

There could be consequences from eventual withdrawal of French troops from the security-challenged West Africa and the Sahel region, even with the mutual defence pact announced recently by Mali, Guinea and Burkina Faso. But President Macron has not helped matters either, with his imperialist posture and grandstanding.

He is on record as saying that “without France, countries like Mali, Burkina Faso…. would not exist.” Such inflammatory statements are unhelpful when juxtaposed with the lopsided relations between France and its former African colonies, characterised by controversial post-independent agreements which gave Paris overbearing political and economic influence and control over the fortunes of these countries.

Under the patronising agreements, France has set up military bases in most of the countries with guaranteed right of first refusal in the exploitation of their natural resources. The common currency, CFA franc used by 14 of the former colonies is controlled by the French Treasury, that holds a sizeable amount of the countries’ revenue deposits, which they are made to borrow at economic interests.

For instance, Niger is rich in priced minerals such as uranium and gold, but foreign companies, particularly those from France, mine these natural resources to enrich and develop their countries, leaving Niger and its estimated 26 million population in penury and abject poverty.

It is no wonder, that the Niger junta has now demanded renegotiation of the country’s economic and other contracts with France to ensure that the people of Niger maximized the benefits of their God-given resources.

Insecurity, underpinned by terrorism and Islamic insurgency in West Africa and the Sahel, are the reason for the military presence of France, its European and American allies in the region. But the junta regimes and local populations are unimpressed. They claim that the foreign forces are instead pursuing their own agendas in the name of fighting terrorism.

Meanwhile, the U.S. which has some 1,100 troops in Niger has been conspicuous in its ambivalence over the military takeover in Niger. After initial condemnation and public show of support and pressure on the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to take tough measures against the Niger junta, Washington has since found some accommodation with the junta.

Curiously, Washington remains undecided whether the July 26 putsch “is a coup” or “an attempted coup,” while America’s newly appointed Ambassador to Niger recently assumed duty in Niamey. Also, following an understanding reached with the junta, the U.S. has resumed its strategic military drone flights from Niger for surveillance operations across Africa.

At the same time, continued pressure by France and America on ECOWAS to act, has led to the regional bloc’s unmet threat to intervene militarily to restore constitutional order in Niger.

ECOWAS now has every reason to feel undermined and boxed into a tight corner by the inconsistent and double-faced positions by Paris and Washington on Niger, apparently driven by fear in the West of being displaced in Africa by Russia and China.

However, there could be some silver linings in the cloud of geopolitical game in Niger, particularly a bitter lesson for African leaders that international relations are about national interests and the fact that it is Africans that should solve African problems.

For African countries to develop and prosper, they must be strategic and necessarily review their relationships with foreign powers. Africa is not zero-poor but only badly run and impoverished, no thanks to the conspiracy and unholy alliance between African rulers and powerful foreign interests, be they France, EU, America, China, Russia, or Turkey.

ECOWAS is renowned for achievements in the domain of peace and security. It has to reset its conflict management and resolution strategies with dynamic and properly nuanced home-grown tools, taking into consideration the peculiarities of each situation.

It is obvious that kinetic option in Niger is not only unpopular but risky with potentially unintended catastrophic consequences. Diplomacy and backchannel initiatives stand a better chance of success when complemented with effective regional sanctions.

Lastly, after more than 60 years of unmitigated exploitation of Africa’s resources through its compromised and corrupt leaders, under the guise of support, France and its Western allies must now listen to the deafening voices of the long-suffering populations yearning for true freedom as opposed to the flag independence granted the former colonies.
- Ejime is a global affairs analyst.
September 28, 2023
Simple but far-reaching solutions to the present crises
- By Folake Ademiluyi
Present day Nigeria is beset and buffeted with several problems, some which are self-inflicted. The biggest challenge is the Japa mentality of the elite who want their bodies in the Nigerian sun but their wants and even needs fed from every other country but Nigeria. They have lived abroad, seen it all and consider those that have not been outside as lacking in the enjoyment of the finer things of life. Their attempts to live abroad, while simultaneously being in Nigeria, is costing the country a humongous amount of foreign exchange, as they try to show and teach our locals how to live the life!

While every country has a right to trade, it is interesting that Nigerians totally adopt goods from outside the Nigerian economy to the detriment of indigenous alternatives. We practically throw away the baby with the bath water when we replace our indigenous options with foreign substitutes.

In practically every city in Nigeria now and conspicuously displayed are grapes, apples, pears foreign grown oranges, tangerines and even pomegranates. Meanwhile there are many people who grew up in the cities who have never seen Oro (Irvingia Gabonensis), Iyeye (Spondias Mombin), even wonder what Awin (Dialium Guineense) is and look with disdain or fear at so many other local fruits that where in high demand in years gone by!

The distribution network of the imported fruits is so efficient and the visibility so strong that they have even now become an integral part of bridal engagement dowry requirements. There is hardly any Nigerian town where these fruits are not found.

One can only imagine how much foreign exchange goes into funding this luxury and how much money the foreign farmers and importers are making! Statistics have it that in 2021, Nigeria spent approximately $5 million importing fruits from South Africa alone.

Beyond fruits, even our local Indigo Dye has all but gone into extinction. The Indigo plant (Indigofera Tinctiria) in the Southwest, especially, is so hard to come by. Even when the local name Eluu is mentioned, there are few amongst those who stock dye that know it. This has led to the use of a synthetic replacement called Indanthrene. Indanthrene is so commonly used now that plant Indigo dyed Tie-and –dye is very expensive and the art of dying fabrics with plant Indigo would have been lost but for a few people like Nike Okundaye of Nike Art gallery struggling to keep the art alive.

While Nigeria must allow free trade, she must also always have the great number of Nigerians in the Diaspora in mind and work to export even our own indigenous fruits, properly and beautifully presented. The relish with which they are eaten by this group will act as attraction and selling point to indigenes of their host countries. Efforts should also be made to give necessary support and incentives to our local farmers to make these fruits as readily available as the foreign alternatives. Propagating love for these fruits locally will increase their local demand and this will help to entrench their demand by Nigerians even when they are outside the country, thereby promoting earnings from export. This is aside from other very useful benefits of these trees.

The major benefit derived from our Diaspora presently is remittance of money for family support back home. Unfortunately, most times, the money is used locally for essentials that ultimately do not generate any further income beyond what it was remitted for.

Read Also: From Japa to Japada: Greening the Nigerian pasture (4)

Our Nigerians in the Diaspora can come in even handier if they are encouraged to form Business Councils. These Business Councils will have official and legal bilateral relationships with interested Nigerians in Nigeria. They will operate exactly like the Business Councils that have helped foreign countries to trade with Nigeria. This kind of arrangement will help limit the number of Nigerians wanting to leave the country to fend for themselves since the bilateral arrangements will ensure that all business interests are legally protected.

Such an arrangement will also help to boost the activities of the marketing boards that the present administration is looking at re-introducing and also help with backward integration of ideas, education and other inputs that will facilitate trade in a way that business councils of other countries cannot afford to do. The Diaspora partners will act with vested interest that is geared towards developing their own home country.

Nigeria is blessed with a lot of potentials to become a tourist’s destination place. Unfortunately, most of the hotels available do not measure up to any standard for rating. It is bewildering that an investor will build and build his hotel without considering staff. He ends up putting a board outside announcing vacancies for just any passer-by! The result is that the hotel will be poorly run and will actually be run down in a couple of years.

To meet the shortfall in trained hands in the catering and hotel management industries, as indeed many other vocations like the building and construction industries, there is a need for intermediate training schools like the Railway Training Institute at the Railway Compound, Ebute Meta, Lagos, which was originally set up to train staff to meet the needs of the Nigeria Railways. It runs courses in Engineering at intermediate levels and accepts the Junior WAEC results for courses like Fashion and Carpentry. All Courses run for three years.

Such intermediate schools, if established everywhere, will help to relieve the pressure on the universities and polytechnics because the number of students trying the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board examination will be reduced. Besides there will be fewer drop-outs as training in such a school is set to achieve the purpose of giving proper education at intermediate levels to these set of children in an environment approved even by parents. Students also get the opportunity to re-sit NABTEB and NECO as the subjects needed to pass these examinations are also taught. It also helps to prepare students to perform better in the universities and polytechnics when they enter. Those who go through such training are better prepared for the job market even if they do not enter higher institutions.

If the federal government can set up such intermediate schools in each local government and the states, it will be easier for simple agricultural implements suited to help enhance and facilitate agricultural operations in the local communities to be fabricated. Besides, children in rural communities who do not make the grades to enter higher institutions will not be left stranded.

Companies, e.g. cement manufacturing companies can be encouraged to have a chair in the intermediate schools to support the teaching of bricklaying and plastering, tiling, plumbing etc as part of corporate social responsibility. Professional bodies can be approached to introduce basic programmes that will prepare the children to be future members of the bodies.

Nigeria should, as a policy, decide not to allow her skills and vocations to be hijacked by foreigners. For so long the textile industry has been dominated by foreigners with the result that they dictate what happens in the industry. There is an urgent need for scholarships to be given to Nigerian youths to study textile production outside the country. When they return, enough support and motivation should be given to them to operate in an industry that is now practically, solely and squarely in the hands of foreigners. Such trained Nigerians will be in a better position to give the kind of good and unbiased advice to Government that foreigners cannot afford to give because of their own interests.

There is a great improvement in the quality of designs being turned out by our bespoke tailors and fashion designers. Sewing hubs and indeed shoemaking hubs should be set up to produce industrially and sold garments and even shoes in shops locally and for export. This is necessary even if the target is children, to help reduce the cost of raising children.

As a whole, Nigeria should, as soon as possible, set quality standards that are both affordable and attainable locally to prevent the different industrial sectors from being hijacked by foreigners and stop the country from being a continuous dumping ground for different inferior products and skills from outside. There is also a constant need for information for the re-orientation of our elite and youth especially. The need to connect with everything other than Nigeria is saddening and also reflected even in our films and skits. Our influencers hardly want to be seen in Nigerian colours whereas Ghanaians are so proud of their colours that they fly them as either as wrist bands, hair ornaments, Afro centric jewellery, etc at every opportunity. We should set up competitions for young people for T-shirt designs and other presentations that will make them fall in love with Nigeria, warts and all.
- Ademiluyi writes via ademiluyifolake830@gmail.com
September 28, 2023
As Cardoso steps in to reset CBN
- By Festus Ganiyu
With the sheer weight of controversies trailing the exit of the former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, and the current economic mess rocking the country, it is more than necessary to set the task of damage control as well as put in place a new leadership with a demonstrable capacity to retool the apex bank.

Expectedly, the reputation of the bank was at its lowest when President Bola Tinubu nominated Olayemi Cardoso, a prominent figure in the vibrant Nigerian finance and public policy arena with a career spanning over three decades, to clear the proverbial Augean stable in the apex bank.

Cardoso, along with the four deputy governors- Emem Nnana Usoro, Muhammad Sani Abdullahi Dattijo, Philip Ikeazor and Bala Bello, were confirmed by the Senate on Tuesday.

Will this new team be arrogant and reckless like their immediate predecessors? Do they have the capacity to reform the bank and put the Nigerian economy on the path of sustainability, especially in a period when the Naira is on a tailspin?

Millions of Nigerians, who may have expressed anxiety at the nomination of the new leadership at the CBN were bound to have a change of mind with the kind of candour, patience, humility and exemplary mastery of the Nigerian economic dynamics displayed at the screening of the new CBN leadership by the Senate on Tuesday.

With the senators firing questions from all angles, it was the calm Cardoso who led his deputies to roll out strategies to reposition the CBN in a way that engenders appropriate monetary policies.

Cardoso, who pledged to ensure the culture of compliance in the apex bank, warned that there would be zero tolerance for non-compliance, an assurance that elicited commendation from the National Assembly members. Cardoso said that as a commissioner in Lagos, he had the reputation of doing things according to rule.

“I have no intention of compromising that,” he assured, an indication that the CBN, under his watch will not toe the line of disregard to laid down rules.

His promise to give listening ears to all interests in the economy will certainly endear him to members of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) who have repeatedly accused the outgone leadership of the apex bank of shunning their attempts to make input. The Director-General of the MAN, Segun Ajayi-Kadir, for instance, recalled that his association sought to meet with the former CBN governor on several occasions to express their concerns over the BDCs’ management of the forex disbursements. He recalled such efforts were rebuffed. “But we never got a chance, neither did we get any responses to the fact-based submissions we made on manufacturers’ forex application and receipts.

Cardoso will be expected to dig deep and redirect the course of the nation’s apex bank. A more rigorous, logical analysis of micro and macro-economic dynamics in a national economy suggests the new CBN boss is left with little wiggle room to confront the challenges frontally.

Key sector analysts believe that the CBN has intermittently veered into areas that are not its core mandate. It could be recalled that the CBN’s Anchor Borrowers’ Programme, a financing model for small-holder farmers, was part of the last administration’s efforts to boost the nation’s rice production, supply, distribution and consumption value chain. These quirky extra-mandate experiments, according to economic gurus, should certainly cease under a Cardoso-led CBN.

At a fundamental level, Nigeria’s economy is not worse off than most comparable commodity-exporting emerging economies. But as a consequence of opening up the nation’s economy to “all-comers” and dropping all capital controls by the previous administrations, the performance of the economy naturally dipped and requires proactive interventions to resuscitate it. This is Cardoso’s forte.

Read Also: How I will tackle inflation, naira, forex crises, by Cardoso

As part of CBN’s long-term strategy to strengthen the economy, Cardoso would need to evolve initiatives to resolve the underlying factors goading challenges to long-term GDP growth, economic productivity, unemployment and poverty that had pervaded the economy over the past decades.

He would have to grapple with these transformative imperatives without going beyond CBN’s monetary policy mandate which restricts wholesale delving into developmental issues, although the CBN Act (2007), as amended, to some extent recognizes this.

Further, to enhance crucial macroeconomic stability, the emphasis would now shift to supporting improved GDP growth and greater private sector investment; the apex bank would need to leverage monetary policy tools in supporting a low inflation environment while seeking to maintain stability in the exchange rate.

To achieve Financial System Stability, a resilient and stable financial system is imperative for continued growth of the nation’s economy given the intermediation role of financial institutions, to support the needs of individuals and businesses.

Those who have been following the career of the new CBN governor said he is eminently ready for the job.

Olayemi Michael Cardoso hails from Lagos State. He spent his formative years in the vibrant city and received his primary education at Corona School Ikoyi, followed by his secondary education at St Gregory’s College, both within Lagos. His father, Felix Bankole Cardoso, made history by becoming Nigeria’s first indigenous accountant-general in 1963.

The new CBN governor is a distinguished leader in the financial and development sectors with over 30 years of experience in private, public and not-for-profit organisations. With diverse corporate governance experience, Cardoso has also sat on the boards of Nigerian subsidiaries of Texaco and Chevron and chaired the board of EFInA, a financial sector development organisation supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

He served in government as the first Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget for Lagos State, where he championed the financial reform process which led to the state’s development of independent tax revenues.

Cardoso introduced significant reforms during his tenure that improved the state’s financial autonomy and tax revenue generation. His visionary leadership paved the way for economic growth and transformation in Lagos. He also spearheaded initiatives such as the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), Security Trust Fund, and Public-Private Partnerships (PPP).

In his capacity as a consultant and policy expert, Cardoso has advised and collaborated with major international development organisations including the World Bank, Ford Foundation, UN-Habitat, World Health Organisation and the Swedish Development Foundation.

Cardoso started his banking career with Citibank where he eventually rose to the position of vice president leaving to co-found Citizens International Bank where he was an executive director for eight years.

He is the recipient of several awards including an honorary Doctorate Degree in Business Administration from Aston University, his alma mater, and the Global Distinguished Alumni award from Citi.

Cardoso obtained a Master’s in Public Administration from Harvard Kennedy School where he was a Mason Fellow. Cardoso’s illustrious career paints a picture of a Nigerian banker, chartered stockbroker, and public policy expert, who has diligently served in various capacities both in the private and public sectors. This service has firmly imprinted his influence on Nigeria’s economic narrative.

Olayemi Michael Cardoso, known widely as Yemi Cardoso, has dedicated more than four decades of his life to the public, private, and development sectors. His tenure at Citibank, where he navigated through various senior roles, including the managing director of Citibank Nigeria, is a testament to his prowess.

Under Cardoso’s watchful guidance as the chairman of the Board of Directors of Citibank Nigeria, the bank witnessed unprecedented growth and expansion. His instrumental role in the blossoming of Nigeria’s capital markets is undeniable. Not to mention, his credentials also include a fellowship at the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers.

Having given his words to the National Assembly members and Nigerians to operate strictly as a professional, and not to dabble into politics, the coast is now set for Cardoso to reposition the CBN for the onerous task ahead. Nigerians will begin to assess his performance going further as his time begins to tick.

•Ganiyu writes from Ikeja.
September 28, 2023
Renaissance in Nigerian creativity: Why now is the time to invest
- By Idris Olorunnimbe
In the melodious waves of Afrobeats, the artistry of our movie producers and the majestic skills of our athletes lies an undeniable truth – Nigeria’s creative industry is a goldmine ripe for investment.

The vibrant pulse of Nigeria’s creative industry is no secret. Yet, there is a palpable sense that we are only scratching the surface. As the world increasingly turns its attention to our shores, Nigeria’s moment to shine brightly on the global stage has come.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s transformative leadership is a cornerstone of this newfound optimism. Speaking at the 78th UNGA, he aptly highlighted the challenges that Africa, particularly Nigeria, has faced. These challenges spanned both internal governance issues and external influences that have often been exploitative. However, as he stated, Nigeria is not waiting for the world. Instead, it is opening its doors for equitable and mutually beneficial partnerships.

One can witness the president’s commitment to changing the narrative first-hand.

His remarks at the G20 in New Delhi, accompanied by securing nearly $14 billion pledges from Indian investors, makes one thing clear: Nigeria is open for business. Not just any business, but purposeful investments that create jobs, foster innovation and drive sustainable economic growth.

Foreign governments are taking notice of the creative sector in particular. The recent visits of UK Foreign Secretary Rt. Hon James Cleverly, MP and the US Deputy Secretary of the Treasury, Wally Adeyemo, which included roundtables with industry leaders and visits to Ogidi Studios underline the recognition of Nigeria’s potential at governmental level. When we welcomed these distinguished personalities at Ogidi, they were not mere courtesy calls; they signified an understanding that the Nigerian narrative is being reshaped by its creative and entrepreneurial forces. They recognized the value proposition, the immense talent and the potential returns.

Nigerian artists are not just making waves; they are creating tsunamis globally.

Rema’s ground-breaking one billion streams on Spotify, Asake’s triumph at the O2 Arena, Wizkid’s electrifying performance at Tottenham stadium, Tiwa Savage’s royal presence and performance at King Charles’ coronation, Davido’s Puma endorsement and Burna Boy’s Grammy victory are merely the tip of the iceberg.

They symbolize a nation bursting at its seams with potential.

Yet, the prowess does not end with music. Tobi Amusan continues to sparkle at international track meets and recently won the Diamond League. Anthony Joshua, Israel Adesanya and Kamaru Usman are their opponents’ nightmares in the ring. Victor Osimhen’s stellar performance at Napoli further showcases Nigeria’s sporting talent. Every global brand was once just a local talent.

Your favourite football club or basketball team were made global by hard work, passion and financial backing of visionaries and investors. Nigeria is a goldmine of such local talents, waiting for the right platforms, investments and partnerships to morph into global icons.

The key to progress lies in investing both in infrastructure and skill development—this is the prescription for success. As we develop our infrastructure, it is imperative that we simultaneously nurture our musicians, actors, athletes, as well as the coaches, officials and crews supporting them.

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These elements are interdependent; one cannot flourish without the other. A proficient coach, leading a skilled team and equipped with a top-notch venue, draws fans who spend on tickets, food and beverages, thereby boosting the local economy. For those who cannot be physically present, television broadcasting rights ensure inclusivity. Moreover, such versatile venues can double up as concert arenas, showcasing the dynamism of commerce.

One might ask, why is now the right time for investment? The answer lies in the changing nature of content and its potential as collateral.

Already, we see content owners licensing to major streamers, getting paid in instalments. These agreements’ inherent strength could soon serve as substantial financial instruments, strengthening economic structures. The reliability and strength of these agreements have garnered the trust of banks, indicating a transformative shift in how we view and value content.

Imagine a world where the next global hit, the next cinematic masterpiece, becomes not just an emblem of cultural pride but a tangible asset, enriching both the creator and the investor.

While Disney’s original “Black Panther” movie might not have invested directly in Nigeria or Africa, its sequel showcased Nigeria’s potent creative prowess, with significant portions of its iconic score crafted at our Ogidi Studios. Esteemed composer Ludwig Göransson, known for his award-winning work on films like “Fruitvale Station,” “Creed” and “Tenet,” was so impressed by our capabilities that he incorporated many elements we recorded — from evocative chants to war percussions and flutes. Given the successful collaborations and the world class infrastructure we offer, I foresee our upcoming studio becoming the choice destination for future international blockbusters. This transformation underscores Nigeria’s ascension as a lucrative investment hub in the global creative arena.

In an age where “content is the new crude,” Nigeria’s reservoir runs deep. The potential for investment is not confined to entertainment alone. With burgeoning sectors in technology, e-commerce, agriculture, and more, the opportunities will only multiply.

As the world stands at the cusp of a new era, the Nigerian dream is becoming an exciting reality. It beckons investors, creators, innovators and dreamers to partake in a journey that promises unparalleled returns and an opportunity to shape the future.

The fabric of Nigeria’s rich heritage, combined with its unparalleled potential, makes it a beacon for investment. Our artists and athletes have shown what is possible on the global stage. Now, it is time for the world to invest in the boundless potential that lies within our shores. These opportunities will only increase, and the world should be ready to embrace them.

In the words of President Tinubu, “We are ready to give you the best returns for investment possible; there’s nowhere else like our country.” Indeed, the Nigerian renaissance is here and it is ripe for investment.

•Olorunnimbe is the founder and group chief executive of The Temple Company, owners of Ogidi Studios.
September 28, 2023
Greenhushing vs. Greenwashing: Between sustainability and deception
- By Tosin Samuel Afeniforo
In today’s world, environmental issues are becoming increasingly pressing, and the corporate world is at a turning point. Businesses are expected to adopt sustainable practices and reduce their carbon footprint. However, many companies struggle with the temptation to exaggerate their environmental commitments through deceptive marketing strategies. This has led to a new contrast between genuine environmental responsibility and dishonest practices: greenwashing vs. greenhushing.

The term “greenhushing” describes the tendency of some businesses to downplay their environmental actions, possibly out of concern for being accused of “greenwashing.” On the other hand, greenwashing refers to the deceptive representation of companies’ environmental practices to make them seem far more environmentally responsible than they are. These two phenomena, known as greenhushing and greenwashing, can hinder the global fight against climate change and create confusion for consumers. This article will explore the nuanced differences between these two phenomena and underscore the significance of accountability and transparency regarding the environmental efforts of businesses.

The Greenwashing predicament

Greenwashing is a long-standing practice. However, as people have become more environmentally sensitive, it has become increasingly prevalent. Companies frequently employ eco-friendly images, slogans, or ambiguous sustainability claims to alter consumer sentiments. As a result, it can be difficult for customers to distinguish between companies that prioritize the environment and those that only use sustainability as a marketing technique.

Many companies are taking steps to market their eco-friendly practices and products as consumers become more environmentally conscious. However, it is critical to be careful of greenwashing, a marketing strategy in which businesses display one small, environmentally friendly product or activity while disregarding their overall negative environmental practices. This can be deceptive and endangers the larger goals of sustainability and climate change. Instead, we should encourage businesses to embrace true and complete eco-friendly practices that are consistent with long-term environmental preservation objectives.

Greenwashing has far-reaching consequences. It can deceive consumers into thinking that they are supporting eco-friendly businesses and products, which can discourage them from advocating for more rigorous environmental regulations or backing legitimate sustainable businesses. This could hinder attempts to counteract climate change and encourage unsustainable practices.

Greenhushing: The unspoken sustainability

Concealing sustainability initiatives, also known as “greenhushing,” can pose a challenge for businesses. Despite their sincere investment in sustainability, some companies opt to keep their efforts under wraps to avoid being branded as “greenwashers.” In today’s sceptical consumer landscape, authenticity is crucial, and there is a hesitancy to openly discuss environmental measures. However, the act of greenhushing can have detrimental effects. By hiding their sustainability initiatives, businesses run the risk of consumers being unaware of the positive strides being made. This lack of transparency can result in missed opportunities for collaboration and participation, ultimately impeding progress towards a sustainable future.

Finding the balance: A transparent path forward

Transparency is the key to walking the delicate line between greenwashing and greenhushing. Businesses must be transparent and honest about their environmental initiatives, disclosing both their triumphs and failures. Consumer trust is increased via transparency, and internal accountability is encouraged. The following actions can be taken by businesses to establish the correct balance:

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Accurate reporting: Companies should provide accurate reports on their environmental initiatives using standardized criteria that are easy to comprehend. This lessens confusion and enables shoppers to make knowledgeable decisions.

Setting achievable sustainability goals: Setting realistic sustainability goals is crucial. Companies should not make excessive promises or overstate their dedication to environmental sustainability. Setting unrealistic goals may result in being accused of greenwashing.

Verification by a third party: Getting sustainability claims verified by a third party can give a company’s efforts more legitimacy. Independent auditors can vouch for the validity and efficacy of environmental measures.

Engaging stakeholders: Companies can better understand their consumers’ concerns by having a conversation with consumers, staff members, and other stakeholders. This involvement can direct environmental initiatives and show a dedication to advancement.

Campaigns for education and transparency: Companies can educate consumers about their sustainability efforts. Marketing campaigns, annual reports, and other forms of communication can accomplish this.

Continuous improvement: Sustainability is a continual process that requires continuous improvement. Companies should constantly evaluate how they affect the environment and work to get better. A sincere commitment is demonstrated by being open and honest about problems and potential improvements.

Role of consumers

Consumers can play an active role in the fight against greenhushing and greenwashing by demanding transparency and accountability from businesses. Here are several actions that customers can take to encourage a more sustainable and environmentally responsible approach from companies:

Research: When making a purchase, consumers should evaluate a company’s sustainability actions, not just its trendy slogans.

Ask questions: Motivate an open dialogue with companies by asking questions regarding their sustainable practices. Companies that prioritize sustainability will be eager to share their initiatives and progress.

Support genuine efforts: Supporting companies that prioritize sustainability, even if they are not vocal about it, can contribute positively towards a more sustainable future.

Promote transparency: Encourage companies to be open and honest about their sustainability initiatives by asking them to disclose their goals to customers.

Hold businesses accountable: If you come across a business that you believe is engaging in greenwashing, think about taking a proactive approach and expressing your concerns to them. You can do this by contacting the business directly, using social media, or reading consumer reviews. You can promote change for a more sustainable future by holding businesses responsible for their unsustainable activities.

Conclusion

Greenhushing and greenwashing serve as crucial reminders of the difficulties organizations encounter while navigating the intricate web of environmental responsibility in the continuous fight to combat climate change and advance sustainability. It is crucial for businesses and customers to find the ideal balance between openness and sincerity.

By supporting companies who are sincerely committed to sustainability and keeping those who participate in greenwashing accountable, customers have the power to create change. Businesses may help create trust and contribute to a greener future by embracing transparency, establishing attainable targets, and continuously enhancing sustainability practices. We can only prevent greenhushing and greenwashing from derailing the global movement for a more sustainable world by working together and remaining vigilant.

•Afeniforo is a sustainable development practitioner, climate change activist, and Ph.D. scholar at the IUSS Pavia, Italy.
September 28, 2023
Ogun APC and Abiodun’s numerous olive branches
- By ‘Poju Akintayo
Even his naysayers admit that he would willingly exploit all avenues in search of peace. Love him or not, Prince Dapo Abiodun, the governor of Ogun State and the leader of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the gateway state is the most significant playmaker in the politics of the state as we speak. Yet, he has not left anyone in doubt of his deftness as a team player.

In spite of having to battle intra party opposition and anti-party activities within the ruling party as far back as the first time he emerged as the flag-bearer of the APC in the build-up of the 2019 gubernatorial election in the state, up until his quest for a second term in office this year, the Iperu Remo-born businessman turned politician never encouraged segregation within the party at any point in time.

Perhaps it is because of this firm believe in the beauty and strength of togetherness that he constantly sought ways of successfully extending the olive branch to real and imagined antagonists within and outside the ruling party across the state. To say the least, the APC has benefitted immensely from the large heartedness of Governor Abiodun as the party kept receiving more and more prominent politicians into its fold courtesy of the governor’s many olive branches.

Not a few people are surprised by the governor’s penchant to reconcile with members of the opposition across the state as some of these people worked hard to prevent him from ever ruling the state. Even when he was seeking a second term, these people doubled their effort to ensure Abiodun is stopped at all cost.

Thus, it didn’t come to some people, within and outside the APC, as a surprise last Friday when thousands of prominent leaders and members of the political camp of Senator Ibikunle Amosun, dumped the former Ogun State governor and declared their loyalty and support for Governor Abiodun going forward. Jubilant APC leaders and members were quick to declare the unexpected defections as the dividends of Abiodun’s unending olive branch.

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The defectors came from the 20 local government areas of Ogun State with their supporters. They looked happy. They exuded the confidence of people who consciously took the decision to re-join the mainstream of the APC and be led by the governor. The arrowheads of the defection are prominent associates and allies of former Governor Amosun.

Leader of the returnees, Chief Derin Adebiyi, who led Amosun’s political camp until the fateful day, said they have all agreed to return to the mainstream to contribute to the development of the party and the state in general. The former chairman thanked the governor and the party members for receiving them back. Specifically, he also harped on Abiodun’s large heartedness, recalling the several efforts made by the governor ensure that ‘this day came to pass.”

He confirmed that but for the willingness of the governor to encourage peace and cooperation within the party, he and others may not find the courage to retrace their steps. Adebiyi, while pledging the total loyalty of himself and all other defectors to the governor and the ruling party, applauded Abiodun for always being the ‘father of all’ even when it was obvious that he was not enjoying the support of all.’

Receiving the returnees at the Presidential Lodge, Abeokuta, Abiodun appreciated God for answering his supplications for peace in the party and in Ogun State and commended the returnees for acting according to what they believed in. He said he never quarrelled with them for one day in spite of all that happened. Rather, he daily prayed for their return to the mainstream of the ruling party so that they can contribute their quota to the development of our dear state.

“I want to congratulate your sense of loyalty to leadership, which I will say is not only commendable, it is enviable. This is a culture that we must promote and entrench. It is a culture that is fast eroding; it is a culture that we are fast losing. Loyalty is 100 per cent”, the governor admonished the returnees.

He further urged all members to put the past behind them and work towards repositioning the party to achieve its aims and work for the socio-economic development of the state.

“To those who did not leave, please let us receive our brothers and sisters back. To those who are joining us, please let us display a sense of loyalty. I can assure you, you will be fully integrated,” he said to the admiration of both returnees and party members.

Last Friday’s event, though novel, was not the first time Ogun APC would be benefitting from the olive branches being extended into the nooks and crannies of Ogun State by Governor Abiodun. Some months earlier, the opposition PDP’s Local Government party chairmen, secretaries and executive council members in Ijebu East, Ijebu North and Ogun Waterside local government areas of the state dumped political party and declared support for Abiodun and the APC.

Giving reasons for their decision to leave their various parties, the decampees all said they decided to join the APC out of conviction that Abiodun is a good leader who is always seeking collaboration and cooperation even from his political opponents.

“The governor knows what the people want, and he is meeting their needs. APC is the party of the people, and we will work for its success,” he noted.

Similarly, some loyalists of the PDP gubernatorial candidate in the last governorship election in the state, Ladi Adebutu and late Senator Buruji Kashamu from Ikenne Local Government Area of the state, also joined the APC not long ago. Governor Abiodun personally received the defectors led by lfaneye Shittu, lsiaka Sonoiki, Mufutau Gbadamosi and Adeleke Adesanya, into the party at a political meeting.

Like others before and after them, the defectors cited the peaceful disposition and sterling performance of the state governor as the reason for their action.

APC state chairman, Chief Yemi Sanusi, said in every human relationship, there is bound to be disagreement, adding that even in time of war, there is always a place for peaceful settlement of conflict. While calling on the returnees to fully integrate themselves with other members of the party, he cited the governor’s magnanimity as the major factor that made the many reconciliations within the party possible.
- Akintayo writes from Atan, Ijebu North East, Ogun State.
September 26, 2023
Think Nigeria first!
- By Ehi Braimah
Last Sunday, the main activity of the day at the Archbishop Vining Memorial Church Cathedral in GRA, Ikeja, Lagos, was the National Harvest. It is an event parishioners look forward to every year because of its capacity to create joy, happiness, merriment, and excitement for young and old people. It is always a special moment when parishioners pray for Nigeria and ask for grace for themselves.

The mini-Nigeria atmosphere in the church auditorium is usually festive and vibrant; the colourful display of costumes projects our rich cultural heritage and diversity. The overarching theme of unity is evident: although we come from different regions and tribes, we belong to one nation.

During the procession by each state, the dance steps are beautifully choreographed responses to the popular traditional music from that part of the country. This is followed by a Love Feast and fellowship on the open ground nearby after the church service.

The different food types exhibited is a recognition of our diversity and the excellent culinary skills of our people. You could walk into any tent and sample the food of your choice in a show of love and demonstration of goodwill from your hosts. The simple act of sharing and caring are a manifestation of God’s unfailing love and faithfulness.

When we talk of mercy, kindness and compassion, they are scriptural verses but they are also values that build great nations. Unfortunately, we have allowed tribe and region in the absence of love to define who we are, and these sentiments keep pulling us back. It explains why Nigeria finds it difficult to reach its full potential.

At the church service, one of the hymns was, “There shall be a new Nigeria.” I was fascinated by the hymn and there was an unscripted earnestness on the faces of parishioners as we sang the hymn with this chorus: ‘New Nigeria, New Nigeria I see/ Our story is changing for good/ A great nation shall be born.’

Indeed, a great nation comprising different tribes and tongues shall be born. The hymn has five stanzas, with each stanza deliberately crafted to inspire the congregation. I am aware a popular prayer point is, “May God not forsake Nigeria,” but when we look around us, what do we see? We do not see a nation but a collection of tribes and multi-ethnic groups.

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It is imperative that we change the way we think and behave. We must think of Nigeria first in all that we do. If we can think it, we can do it! What is currently being practiced is that we prioritise where we come from over our national identity.

In a country with three major tribes and more than 250 ethnic groups and 220 million people, why is it difficult to forge a national identity and speak with one voice? My view is that it is the responsibility of the federal government to create a national identity project that would promote citizenship and serve as the glue to hold everyone together so that Nigeria is a no longer a “mere geographical expression” as the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, noted in the past.

The hymn we sang in church last Sunday should be translated into all the indigenous languages for national mobilisation. I say this because we do not have any other country to call our own, and it is only Nigerians that can build Nigeria under the right transformational leadership that would inspire greatness in every Nigerian.

The task of nation-building will begin when we forge and defend a national identity with a new zeal, consciousness and earnestness, and run away from protecting territories. To be clear, where we come from are important but we must always see ourselves as Nigerians first.

A new Nigeria is on the lips of most people. Chief Afe Babalola is a legal luminary and founder of Afe Babalola University. At 93 years old, Chief Babalola does not need to grandstand or impress anyone with his comments. He has been an advocate for a new Nigeria based on a new constitution where politics will no longer be a “transactional business.”

If most Nigerians are depressed and refusing to commit to the concept of a new Nigeria, it is because they are treated like refugees in their own country. They also believe strongly that nothing is being done to tackle elite conspiracy which, to a large extent, is the bane of Nigeria’s underdevelopment.

How many Nigerians are proud of Nigeria or ready to die for Nigeria? I am interested in the outcome of this survey because the number of people leaving Nigeria in droves has become worrisome.

Most of my friends and associates who live abroad used to tell me about five years ago that they would love to return to Nigeria but they don’t say that anymore. They ask me: return to what? They even tease me to “japa” and join them to become a diaspora Nigerian.

I am worried about the elite conspiracy against Nigeria which has devalued the lives of Nigerians for so many decades. This club of vested interests that capture and divert state resources are usually protected from the long arm of the law.

The poor continues to pay the price of a dysfunctional society that does not inspire any hope. The basic things of life are always absent because we are wicked and unkind to each other. Most patriotic Nigerians know that a “Think Nigeria First” campaign in any form will only make sense when the rich stops stealing from the poor.

When this happens, the stolen funds can be used to develop infrastructure, provide constant electricity supply, build schools and hospitals, and so on.

With a debt overhang of N87 trillion, are the members of the vested interests club happy? I don’t think so because I know they are patriotic citizens who love Nigeria more than the rest of us. It does not really matter, especially now that we are at their mercy.

This club of vested interests know how they made their money and they are eating alone while the Nigerian economy is bleeding. This is not fair at all; they should think of Nigeria first before they think of how they spend our money.

Even if one dollar sells for N5,000, they can afford to buy millions if not billions of dollars. Most Nigerians are selling off their properties and travelling abroad because of the foreign exchange rate variance. I don’t blame them; they are only obeying the first law of nature which is their survival.

The increasing number of multi-dimensionally poor Nigerians – over 133 million people, according to the Nigeria Bureau of Statistics (NBS) – are daily thinking of their survival before anything else. Why can’t these elites who conspire against Nigeria and hold our money in trust for all Nigerians not have pity on poor and hapless Nigerians?

As our 63rd independence anniversary draws near, what will be President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s message to Nigerians? Mr. President knows that majority of Nigerians are not happy; they are worried and struggling to survive in a dire economic environment where hope must be renewed as quickly as possible.
- Braimah is a global public relations and marketing strategist.
September 26, 2023
Obasanjo and the face of insolence
- By Abiodun Komolafe
Former president, Olusegun Obasanjo’s recent discourteous behaviour against some of the traditional rulers in Iseyin, Oyo State has drawn an angry tirade from the public. Not unexpectedly, these comments have come as a mix of both the printable and unprintable words. For yours sincerely, the former president’s comments could only be viewed from two main perspectives.

The first is the pre-colonial era prestige attached to Nigeria’s traditional institution. During the period under review, traditional rulers were in full control to the extent that the then-visiting white men who later became their colonial masters were always at their mercy for acceptance to the kings and the locals. In their bid, the white men always came to these monarchs along with materials such as clothes, tobacco, salt, refined gold and beverages. In return for the perceived kind gesture from the white men, traditional rulers would always pack and sell or give our brothers and sisters who had either been bought or captured in inter-tribal wars as slaves as gifts in return to these foreigners. This relationship continued till it all culminated in what was later known as colonial administration.

It is also interesting to note that the colonial administration then brought the idea that traditional rulers needed to be subservient to the colonial administration. That was the genesis and the starting point of the gradual erosion of the power and influence of the traditional rulers in Nigeria. This was done to see the monarchs as middlemen through whom people were administered indirectly in the protectorates which in any case was resisted by the easterners. The Obas, too, really enjoyed it as it was seen in their fraternization and oppression of the people. But the monarchs had left their lofty positions and begun looking up to the white men or the colonial lords for decisions, directions and favours of all shapes and sizes in all things.

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At independence, the colonial masters left, but they left behind the structure for the indigenous administration. Not only that they left, they also gave us a document known as the Independence Constitution which was meant to right all the wrongs of the past and restore the dignity of the traditional leaders, among others. The joy of independence of the year 1960 was however brought to a halt by a group of soldiers led by Major General Thomas Aguyi-Ironsi, who instead of sustaining the regional system of government that was in place, introduced the unitary system of government coloured in federalism, and that’s what has been in place, even till this day. That was how Nigeria went back to its colonial master-monarch relationship.

Needless to repeat, therefore, that Obasanjo and his co-travellers who later found themselves at the seat of power did not see anything wrong with the usurpation of the roles and powers of our revered monarchs. So, there’s no need to restore them. They went on as Nigerian leaders exploiting and further denigrating and desecrating our traditional stools. That is why governors and commissioners have been seen commanding and ordering these monarchs around against their wishes and those of their subjects.

Obasanjo could not have done less; and cannot do less. Here’s a man who places himself above others and with the colonial master’s mentality that is deeply ingrained in him. He sees himself as the eternal bank of the world’s knowledge. That’s why he could appoint and pay political advisers from the public coffers as a sitting president and still declare that he would not listen to them. On an altar of sheer arrogance, this man wasted the Yoruba slot for eight years by pursuing his agenda over that of the general public. For example, as a sitting president, he organized fundraisings that birthed his private university, revamped his erstwhile comatose farm project and established a world-class library for himself. He forcefully made his daughter Commissioner in Ogun, his home state, and senator representing the state at the National Assembly. Obasanjo was also reputed for the inglorious Third Term Agenda.

It is coming from this background that the former president believes that he has a lesson he must drive down the throats of the representatives of our ancestors, the Obas; and he did lead them in that Parade Ground of ‘E dide! E joko!’ (Stand up! Sit down!), which they sheepishly obeyed.

Too bad! Whereas Obasanjo finds it pleasurable to be denigrating Yoruba Obas, he most certainly cannot try the same with any Emir in any part of the North. In the North, monarchs are recognized in their statute books as a result of the penal code system in operation which is different from what obtains in the South. Here in the South, our monarchs are treated as errand boys for politicians.

Hear The Rev’d ‘Toyin Adesokan’s view on the propriety or otherwise of Obasanjo’s impoliteness to the traditional institution in Yorubaland: “I am aware that we have Kings in the Bible, from the Book of Genesis, to the Book of Revelation. Among the Kings were Pharaoh, Saul, David and Solomon. We have also read about Kings Ahab, Ahasuerus and Herod of the New Testament. They were all revered as leaders and as the aggregate of their people’s traditions and culture. Prophet Nathan never thought it right to confront King David even with the overwhelming revelation and backing of God in the case of Bathsheba the wife of Uriah, he treaded wisely. Prophet Elijah ran away from King Ahab and Joseph and Mary the earthly parents of Jesus Christ had to obey the divine instruction to escape the little Jesus to Egypt for fear of King Herod. However, what do you think would have become of Obasanjo in the presence of Kings like David, Pharaoh and Herod with that outburst?”

“Finally, the Bible says about kings: “The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their splendour into it” (Rev. 21:24 NIV). We see here that Presidents, Prime Ministers and Governors were not mentioned. 1 Samuel 16:2 has also shown the paramount nature of the kings and how divine they are above the man-made presidents and governors.”

With the above from a priest of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) Diocese of Lagos West, need Nigerians say more? After all, there are many ways to insult a Yoruba monarch and I’m sure Obasanjo knows them all.
- Komolafe wrote in from Ijebu-Jesa, Osun State.
September 26, 2023