The Nation Newspaper

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  • Enough of the horror on Otedola Bridge, Lagos

    Enough of the horror on Otedola Bridge, Lagos

    SIR: Like other big cities, Lagos has many ugly spots, but when it comes to danger zones, no spot beats Otedola Bridge’s notoriety. Located a few meters from the Lagos end of the boundary between Lagos and Ogun states on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, the bridge has recorded several disasters and fatalities that have made the ground around it blood-soaked.

    For decades, the spot of about 50 metres has been painted regularly with the blood of the young and old. It has nothing to do with the work of the demons. It is simply a consequence of the road conditions, engineering defects, and environmental factors in addition to the carelessness of some drivers. The inherent hazards on that stretch include cliffs, sharp curves, heavy traffic, and poor road designs. All these make it difficult for tanker drivers especially to maneuver.

    Series of accidents have continued to occur on the spot but that of June 28, 2018, was more horrific. Twelve persons were roasted in the fire that erupted when a petrol tanker fell and exploded that sad Thursday evening, in addition to 54 vehicles that were burnt.

    Otedola Bridge now occupies a space among the world’s list of bridges with records of regular disasters like George Washington Bridge (New York City, USA), Golden Gate Bridge (San Francisco, USA), Tsing Ma Bridge (Hong Kong), Seohae Bridge (South Korea) and Rio-Niteroi Bridge (Brazil), among others.

    Lagos State seems to have only mastered the response template of sending rescue missions each time a disaster strikes there. The reactive effort is limited to putting out fires and managing traffic. The state seems not to know what to do to prevent accidents on that spot. The emphasis has been on rescuing and not prevention. This is grossly unsatisfactory and indefensible.

     It is expected that the Federal Ministry of Works, as the owner, should take concrete actions to effect corrections on the defective engineering design on that section and deal with other sundry causes of regular crashes. But characteristic of slow institutional response to serious matters, calamities on the bridge seem not alarming enough to warrant an emergency response from appropriate authorities.   One would have also thought that the ongoing expansion reconstruction on the Expressway by Julius Berger should be used to correct whatever defects exist on that section of the road.

    Read Also: Victims of Otedola Bridge explosion lament neglect by firm

    A remedial approach is urgently needed like it was done for the Millau Viaduct Bridge (France), Tacoma-style retrofit (Canada), Tyne Bridge (UK), Story Bridge (Australia), and even in Maputo-Katembe Bridge (Mozambique) in 2019.

    The Ojo end of the Lagos – Ibadan-Expressway was plagued with similar experiences of recurring road accidents, but after the construction work and the erection of a massive roundabout at the site of the frequent fatal accidents by the government, the accidents gradually ceased. It is hopeful that if the same responsive action would be taken towards the situation at Otedola Bridge, especially along the steep spots in addition to other safety measures, sanity would return to the site.

    There have also not been enough advocacies from stakeholders expected to show more interest on the road. The Nigerian Society of Engineers, Federal Road Safety Commission, and civil society organizations have not shown enough interest in the calamity taking place on the Bridge by constantly drawing the attention of the authorities to it. A convocation of stakeholders on this very important artery road that connects the nation’s commercial centre to the rest of the country is very important. 

    The Nigerian media also do not see the disasters on the Otedola Bridge beyond the breaking news. The havoc on that Bridge qualifies it to be developmental news deserving of the media’s searchlight until concerted and concrete action is taken. The agenda-setting role of the media in this hot zone is required.

    Stakeholders have in the past, identified several causes of accidents on the Otedola Bridge. According to them, the main causes include the overloading of tankers, speeding, poor road design, lack of enforcement, and inadequate maintenance. To address these issues, stakeholders recommended measures for the reconstruction of the bridge and the implementation of weighbridges to prevent overloaded trucks from using the bridge, among others.

    For now, stopping death on Otedola Bridge should be a project for all.

    • Moshood Isamotu, Lagos.  
  • Jungle without justice

    Jungle without justice

    SIR: On March 25, about 16 hunters travelling from Port Harcourt to Kano for the Eid celebrations were fed to the flames in Uromi, Edo State on flimsy but fatal accusations of being kidnappers. It was not the first time. Three years earlier, precisely on May 12, 2022, the hallowed grounds of the Shehu Shagari College of Education in Sokoto State served up a stage for one of the most chilling crimes ever to rock Nigeria. In the glare of the midday sun, Deborah Samuel, a 22-year-old student was lynched on allegations of blasphemy.

    One of the greatest indicators that Nigeria is not yet ready for the understated civilization which underpins developed countries is found in the number of those who participate in dishing out mob justice, or enjoy the spectacle from afar.

    It is damningly bizarre that some Nigerians prefer to supply fuel, car tyres and match sticks to burn suspected criminals rather than ask pertinent questions, and hand them over to the appropriate law enforcement agencies.

    It is even more telling that many Nigerians who happen to stumble on such scenes prefer to whip out their mobile phones and take pictures and videos while people burn. This indicts their humanity to no end. Nigerians, who often form these killer mobs, whether as killers or witnesses, are often criminals themselves.

    Cracks cover Nigeria’s criminal justice system. There is hardly ever justice for the many crimes committed against Nigerians. Nigerians fall victims of the worst crimes and their perpetrators slip through the yawning cracks of the system, re-strategise and reappear elsewhere to perpetrate more chilling crimes. A weak criminal justice system has ensured that Nigeria has continued to recycle criminals who refine the art of unleashing terror on Nigerians.

    Knowing this is Nigeria, knowing what has come to be known about Nigeria, it is safe to say that this will happen again. It is only a matter of time before helpless and hapless Nigerians run into the mob, for whom justice is murder with maximum agony.

    There will be yet more incidents of this outrageous crime against Nigeria. Because the system and those who supervise it are pathetically reactionary, more Nigerian citizens will be butchered and burned alive for doing nothing, before law enforcement personnel can make it to the scene.

    Read Also: Akpabio condemns Edo killings, calls for justice to assuage pains

    When it happens again, Nigerians will be caught in yet more rounds of hand-wringing and horror.

    It is good to see lightning fast actions being taking to serve justice in the case of the 16 hunters. Swift justice should be the template whenever there is a crime. It should be what is served no matter the victim or the volume of outcry. Those who do these things must be left in no doubt that their actions will provoke the gravest consequences.

    Again, the police and other security personnel must improve their capacity to pick up intel and nip these crimes in the bud even before they occur. They must retool their communication channels to ensure that they can receive information about these crimes as early as possible.

    They must also be able to mobilize to arrest such crimes at the shortest possible notice.

     If these crucial steps are taken, Nigeria may just move from being a jungle without justice to a jury where justice is undeniable.

    • Kene Obiezu, keneobiezu@gmail.com
  • Of recurring sectarian fires

    Of recurring sectarian fires

    SIR: An old rivalry was renewed with bloody consequences last Friday when the Nigerian military disrupted a protest by members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) in Abuja. About five persons were allegedly killed and scores arrested when the protesters clashed with Nigerian soldiers. A security operative was also lost in the skirmish.

    The group has a history of confrontation with security agents. In 2015, Zaria, Kaduna provided the theatre for a titanic confrontation between members of the movement sect and Nigerian soldiers. Hundreds of its members were killed while its leader, Sheikh Ibrahim Zakzaky was put on trial. The trial ended in 2016 when he was discharged and acquitted by the court.

    Zakzaky may have been discharged and acquitted, but the flashpoints which flare up occasionally is a sign that the sect has neither forgotten nor forgiven what was done to it in Kaduna State.

    Occasionally, the movement organizes protests and processions which sweep through major parts of Abuja. During these protests, the sect is never shy about getting confrontational.

    Nigeria is and remains a secular country. This means that while citizens have a right to freedom of religion, it is illegal and unconstitutional to cast Nigeria as a country which leans towards any religion. But it is no leeway to crush religious sects or suppress religious beliefs or religious minorities in the name of state security.

    Why does this keep happening? Why does the government have to violently confront the sect? Since this problem has been around for many years now, why has the government not devised a permanent solution to what has become a tangible security threat to Nigerians?

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    The movement will do well to call its members to order. It was only in 2015 that their modus operandi led to a bloodbath at the hands security personnel acting on the orders of the Kaduna State government. The movement must make it abundantly clear to all its members that their rights stop where the rights of others begin, and their religious activities cannot be seen or shown to threaten other citizens.

    Nigeria is a constitutional democracy and by reason of that incontestable fact, the actions of every citizen and group bar none, must be seen to meet the strictures of not only democracy but constitutionality. This is crucial to ensuring the survival of Nigeria as a country.

    In responding to perceived threats by individuals or groups, the Nigerian Army and other security agencies must also commit fully to following the law. Nigeria has its hands full presently with multiple security threats. It cannot in any way seen to be exacerbating or complicating matters.

    • Ike Willie-Nwobu, Ikewilly9@gmail.com
  • IWD: Accelerate Action and the reality of the times

    IWD: Accelerate Action and the reality of the times

    • By Yinka Adeosun

    March 8 is set aside every year to celebrate womanhood. On this day, and throughout the month of March, the world recognises the contributions of women and reflect on their contributions towards gender equality while raising awareness and promoting their empowerment. The theme for this year, Accelerate Action, is both an admonition and a reminder that while strides may have been recorded in attaining the goal, there is still a long way to go.

    Women have continued to demonstrate revolutionary growth in various industries, communities, and systems. They are also in the vanguard of advancement, from spearheading ground-breaking scientific research to breaking new grounds in technology and promoting social justice. The banks in Nigeria, for example, led by women, keep experiencing ground-breaking shifts. With 11 female Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), Nigeria stands as a hope of gender diversity in the financial space in Africa.

     Across the globe, women now hold about 29% of executive roles. While this seems progressive and a gradual positive shift from the past, women are still under-represented compared to their male counterparts. In Nigeria, although they constitute 49% of the population, women are grossly under-represented in vital economic sectors. The average percentage of women at the executive level is only 20%, despite driving 70% of informal trade.

    It is cheery to see Nigerian women following in the heels of the first female Vice Chancellor, Prof. Grace Alele-Williams. An increasing number of Nigerian women are also demonstrating scholarly and administrative acumen in the educational sector. At the moment, out of the 270 approved universities in Nigeria, there are only 13 female vice chancellors, a paltry 4.8%. Several factors contribute to this low number. Women contend with responsibilities in the home front. Marriage and motherhood tasks consume the time they would otherwise dedicate to advancing their career goals and attain desired heights. 

    Gender parity remains a far cry. At the current pace, it will take over a century to achieve gender equality. Isn’t it puzzling that while women contribute about 51% of the electorate, they are least represented in the political arena? For instance, of over 15,000 candidates who contested in the 2023 elections, only about 1553 (10%) were women. Of these, only a paltry 72 of them emerged. Imagine having only seven female deputy governors out of 36, four female senators out of 108 members, and 15 out of the 369 lawmakers in the House of Representatives. Others were elected to the various states houses of assembly. Believe it or not, as of today, in 15 state houses of assembly across Nigeria, there is not a single female lawmaker! Largely for religious and cultural reasons, women are rarely considered for political positions. And where they are preferred, they are often treated with some form of disrespect or disdain.

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    Accelerating action to close these gaps, therefore, means promoting and enabling more policies that encourage women leadership in decision making positions. More so, beyond mere aspirations, policies must be implemented. This may not come easy because our patriarchal culture which is deeply ingrained is still very loud, even among the female folk.

    Women have remained the enemies of women. Other women are often used to attack other women when their rights are trampled upon. It is time to, not just talk about it, but act and act fast. This is where men and women alike need to accelerate actions and liberate women who are in the shackles of male dominance. Children should be raised without gender bias that puts the female at a disadvantage.

    The level of education and enlightenment of the female is still regrettably low. Shutting down schools for a whole month, for instance, because of some religious practice does not help such advocacies. Sadly, such influences are louder and often belittle the rational ones. Empowering and educating the female gender must be given adequate priority.

    The celebration of the womenfolk is still largely an elitist agenda. Most women living in rural areas are neither aware of International Women’s Day nor know its significance. Like most international days, the day came and went like any other day, without any significant impact to it among most women.

    Gender equality is not just a women’s issue. It is a societal goal. Governments, businesses, communities, parents, and the male folk all have critical roles to play in promoting inclusivity. Together, we must all challenge biases, create safe and equitable environment, and champion women’s leadership, which would enhance a fair world.

    Women remain a major stakeholder in the development of any sane society. Thus, making them second fiddle or second-class citizens is a misnomer that must be robustly remedied. If the development of our society is a thing of priority, then we must also accelerate actions to bury gender discrimination and make it a thing of the past. This is beyond what a day or month will tackle.

    •Adeosun writes from Asaba, Delta State.

  • Dangote Refinery: The game changer

    Dangote Refinery: The game changer

    Nigeria is said to own 10 small petroleum refineries in different parts of the country. Six of these refineries are owned by private companies while four of them are owned by the federal government. Two of them are located in Port Harcourt, one in Warri and one in Kaduna. For more than 10 years, these four refineries have remained dormant, dead like dodo and Nigerians have been wondering when they will resurrect like Lazarus.

    Every year, Nigerians cry for petrol; they sleep at petrol stations; they buy petrol when it is available at cut-throat prices while the four government-owned refineries remained refineries only in name. They refined nothing. Yet we had governments that we voted for in the hope that they would take care of our interests but they failed woefully to do the needful. This situation went on for more than 10 years. We did not ask our leaders to either get the refineries working or they should resign. We permitted them to just stay there and chop non-stop. Is that evidence of the failure of followership? In my opinion it is. Where were our labour unions, our student unions, our NGOs? They were all sleeping either because of absent-mindedness or partisanship.

    Then came the Dangote Refinery owned by one man named Aliko Dangote. This gentleman began his business career in a small way in 1978 trading in rice, sugar and cement before he ventured into manufacturing. He now has investments in 17 African countries and is obviously the market leader in cement in Africa. These achievements have been recognised globally. In 2013 Forbes listed him as the Most Powerful Man in Africa and in April 2014 TIME magazine listed him as one of the 100 Most Influential People in the world.

    Then the man saw a niche in our petroleum business and decided that he could fill that gap admirably for the benefit of Nigerians. He set up a $20 billion refinery in Nigeria, one of the biggest refineries in the world. Any sensible country would be eminently proud of a man who took the risk of making such a massive investment in his country especially when its existing refineries had failed to meet the consumption needs of the country. So Nigeria became a country of odious irony, a country that exports crude oil but imports refined petroleum products at exorbitant, exploitative and inflated costs. So these shylock importers of refined fuel got angry when Dangote’s refinery was commissioned. They thought that Dangote was coming to pour sand into their plate of garri. They thought of different devilish ways of frustrating Dangote by suggesting that Dangote’s refinery was going to be a monopoly.

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    How can it be a monopoly when there are 10 other refineries in the country?

    Then came Farouk Ahmed, the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority who alleged that Dangote’s refinery was producing substandard products. The company refuted the claim. I see the role of the regulator as two-fold (a) To protect consumers (b) To foster business growth in the country. Ahmed’s attempt to protect the consumer was noble but he did not provide any information to enable the public make a fair judgement. In other words, what he did lacked transparency because he provided no information to back his allegation. He failed in his second duty namely helping the growth of business in Nigeria. The Asian Tigers grew to become Little Dragons because of the support they got from the system in their countries. That is how the four of them namely Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea and Taiwan achieved remarkable industrialisation and economic prowess.

    Nigeria can only rise to the level of a tiger nation in economic terms if the regulators and other government agencies support the growth of mega companies. A $20 billion investment qualifies as a national interest project that ought to be supported and protected by government and its agencies. Regulators must not be allowed to operate as dictators. Their activities must be monitored and regulated too so that they do not engage in parochial activities that are antithetical to the progress of the country.

    How Dangote is treated seems to reflect that a prophet does not always have honour in his home. Now, the President of Gabon, Brica Oligui Nguema is asking the Dangote Group to come and invest in the cement and fertilizer sectors in Gabon. The president noted that collaboration with the Dangote Group will bolster the country’s industrial landscape.

    Nigeria has been held to ransom by insensitive importers of petroleum products for several years now. With the commissioning of the Dangote refinery and the revival of two of the federal government owned refineries, their days are numbered. It is appropriate to praise Mele Kyari for reviving the two refineries. We expect him to work hard to revive the remaining two so that Nigerians can have a fairer deal in petroleum matters as citizens of a major oil producing country.

    The federal and state governments must do everything in their power to encourage investors to come and invest in Nigeria. That means that they must create a favourable investment climate for big investors to come. That will also prevent investors who are already here from de-investing and moving away to other countries. The kind of treatment given to Dangote must be reversed. Every investment in an unstable economy like ours is a big risk. People must be encouraged to take that risk. That is the only way we can grow our economy.

    Aliko Dangote had planned to invest in Nigeria’s steel industry. Now he says that he will halt his investment plan in that sector to avoid being accused of wanting to be a monopolist. Nigeria had made a major investment in steel at Ajaokuta many years ago. That company is not producing what it was set up to produce. For some years now, there has been a debate on whether that steel company should be auctioned or not, since it is basically dormant. We need steel for development so Dangote should be encouraged not to stop his investment plan on steel. Anyone who says he is likely to become a monopolist should also start his steel company and give Dangote competition. That is how economies grow in other countries.

    By his massive investments in Nigeria, Dangote is a major asset to the country. Those who are bad-mouthing him should also make massive investments here so that Nigeria can become a tiger nation in economic terms. If more people choose to invest in any sector of the economy, no one will be accusing anyone of monopoly.

    Dangote is not a monopolist. He is a patriot.

  • The Babangida legacy in perspective

    The Babangida legacy in perspective

    SIR: Few Nigerian leaders have sparked as much debate as Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida. His tenure was defined by bold economic reforms, institutional restructuring, and political upheavals that continue to influence our trajectory as a nation. To some, he remains a visionary who sought to modernize Nigeria; to others, a calculating leader whose political manoeuvres left lasting scars. Regardless of perspective, his impact is indelible.

    Though too young to fully comprehend his era at the time, I grew up in a Nigeria shaped by his policies. Later, as I studied the nation’s history, Babangida emerged as a leader who recognized the unsustainability of Nigeria’s economic path and attempted bold corrective measures. His Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) was particularly significant. It was an ambitious effort to recalibrate the economy by devaluing the overvalued Naira, boosting exports, reducing import dependency, and attracting foreign investment. His policies sought to eliminate subsidies and correct economic imbalances-a vision that, ironically, we are now beginning to fully embrace. In hindsight, many of these reforms were forward thinking

    Yet, for all his economic foresight, Babangida’s legacy remains deeply contentious. Two events, in particular, overshadow his achievements: the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election and the assassination of Dele Giwa.

    The June 12 election, widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest, was won by Chief MKO Abiola, only to be abruptly nullified by Babangida’s regime. This decision not only derailed Nigeria’s democratic progress but also cemented his reputation as an autocrat unwilling to relinquish power. Decades later, the wound remains unhealed.

    Equally damning is the unsolved murder of Dele Giwa, the fearless Newswatch editor killed by a parcel bomb. The brazenness of the attack and the lack of accountability cast a long shadow over his tenure. As Mr Segun Adeniyi aptly noted, “A single action can define a life.” These incidents are what many Nigerians remember most about Babangida, and understandably so.

    In his memoir, A Journey in Service, Babangida expressed regret over June 12, lamenting his failure to heed the maxim: Fiat Justitia Ruat Caelum—“Let justice be done, though the heavens fall.” Yet, his reflections stopped short of full accountability. Rather than accepting responsibility, he shifted blame to Abiola’s allies, the political class, Sani Abacha and everyone else, while casting himself as a leader merely trying to avert “another civil war”.

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    This defensiveness and Babangida’s reluctance to take full ownership of his actions has only deepened scepticism and left many questioning his true motives. Indeed, had he let justice prevail, the heavens would not have fallen.

    Still, his administration was not without merit. He established pivotal institutions like the National Electoral Commission (NEC), the National Planning Commission (NPC), and the Code of Conduct Bureau-frameworks intended to promote accountability and governance discipline. His policies also laid the groundwork for economic liberalization and infrastructural development, even if their implementation left very much to be desired.

    Today, Nigeria is retracing some of the steps Babangida attempted to take decades ago, particularly in economic policy. The removal of subsidies and efforts toward a market-driven economy are reminiscent of the policies he championed. Had we stayed the course back then, we just might not be grappling with some of the economic challenges we face today.

    In the end, Babangida’s legacy is one of paradox: a leader who championed progress yet undermined it, who envisioned a self-sufficient Nigeria but faltered at critical junctures. History will remember June 12 and Dele Giwa, but it must also reckon with his economic foresight.

    The question is whether we will learn from both his triumphs and his failures.

    • Chiechefulam Ikebuiro, chiechefulamikebuiro@gmail.com
  • Senate’s failure to immortalize Humphrey Nwosu, disservice to democracy

    Senate’s failure to immortalize Humphrey Nwosu, disservice to democracy

    SIR: The Senate of recently voted against a motion to immortalize Prof. Humphrey Nwosu by naming the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters in Maitama, Abuja, after him. This decision has sparked outrage, particularly among Southeast senators, who were within their rights to push for the recognition of their son and a hero of Nigeria’s democratic journey. The rejection of this motion is not just a failure to honour a man who played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s electoral history, it is a glaring disservice to democracy itself.

    Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, as chairman of the National Electoral Commission (NEC) from 1989 to 1993, oversaw the historic June 12, 1993, presidential election. Widely regarded as the freest and fairest election in our nation’s history, it was an election that should have ushered in Chief MKO Abiola as president-elect. However, the military regime led by General Ibrahim Babangida (IBB) annulled the election, plunging the nation into political turmoil. IBB annulled the elections, not Nwosu. Critics of Nwosu have demonized him for failing to announce the election results, but this criticism ignores the harsh realities of operating under a bloodthirsty military regime.

    In 1993, Nigeria was under the iron grip of a military government. Opposing the orders, instructions, and decrees of the military came with severe consequences, often the ultimate price. The fate of Dele Giwa, a journalist assassinated via a letter bomb, serves as a chilling reminder of the lengths to which the military would go to silence dissent. Prof. Nwosu, a family man, faced the impossible choice between defying the military and risking his life or adhering to their directives to protect his family and himself. Considering IBB’s history, including the execution of his best friend Mamman Vatsa, it is naive to think that Nwosu would have been spared had he defied orders.

    The Senate’s rejection of the motion to honour Nwosu is steeped in hypocrisy. This is the same Senate that has failed to stamp its authority when it matters most, yet it expects Nwosu to have defied a military regime notorious for its brutality. Comparatively, these senators have often acted as rubber stamps for presidential directives, lacking the courage to challenge executive overreach. Their criticism of Nwosu for not announcing the election results is both unfair and ironic.

    Some senators were seen praising IBB at his recent book launch, displaying their sycophantic teeth to a man whose regime annulled the June 12 election. This raises questions about their commitment to justice and democracy. If they cannot dare to challenge a civilian president, how can they expect Nwosu to have stood up to a military dictator?

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    The Southeast senators were right to push for the immortalization of Prof. Nwosu. He laid the foundation for Nigeria’s electoral integrity, introducing innovations like the Option A4 voting system and the open ballot process. These contributions deserve recognition, not condemnation.

    If the Senate cannot honour Nwosu, then every state in the Southeast should take it upon themselves to immortalize their son. Build monuments, name streets, and establish scholarships in his name. Push his narrative and celebrate his legacy. The Southeast must rise to the occasion and ensure that their son’s legacy is preserved for generations to come.

    • Imam, Yusuf John.  Abuja.
  • North and its leadership mirage

    North and its leadership mirage

    SIR: Northern Nigeria stands at a defining moment in its history. Once the bastion of strong leadership and cultural resilience, the region is now plagued by a crisis of governance. The distinction between “leaders of the North” and “leaders in the North” has never been more pronounced. Leaders of the North are those who carry the burden of the region’s progress on their shoulders, while leaders in the North are mere seat-fillers—occupants of political positions without a true sense of duty.

    Unfortunately, today’s reality leans heavily towards the latter. The region is flooded with individuals who wear the titles of governors, senators, ministers, and traditional rulers, yet their leadership amounts to little more than self-interest, political survival, and personal ambition.

    The result? Northern Nigeria remains stuck in a cycle of poverty, illiteracy, and insecurity, trailing behind the rest of the country on almost every developmental index.

    Banditry, kidnapping, and insurgency have become rampant, turning villages into ghost towns and leaving countless families in mourning. Youth unemployment and economic hopelessness have skyrocketed, while education continues to suffer with millions of children out of school.

    Rather than prioritizing sustainable policies, these so-called leaders dish out empty rhetoric, making grand promises while doing little to uplift the people they claim to serve. Hunger has become a political tool—wielded not as a crisis to be solved, but as a mechanism of control. Those who once enjoyed three square meals now struggle to afford even one.

    Yet, instead of confronting the root causes of poverty, many politicians prefer the optics of distributing bags of rice. They would rather keep the people hungry and dependent than invest in mechanized agriculture, industrialization, or skills development.

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    The recent horrific killing of at least 16 northern travellers in Edo State is a chilling reminder of the dangers of mob justice and ethnic profiling. These victims—mostly Hausa hunters heading for Sallah festivities—were mistaken for kidnappers and brutally lynched. Such tragedies expose the colossal failure of leadership at all levels.

    The reckless creation of new emirates and first-class chiefdoms is no longer about strengthening governance—it is about settling scores, wielding influence, and fracturing the region further.

    The North needs statesmen who will champion food security, support industrial growth, and create jobs—not politicians who prey on hunger for electoral gain.

    Leadership is not about occupying an office—it is about securing justice, progress, and dignity for all. So, the question lingers: Will Northern Nigeria continue to be ruled by leaders in the North who exploit suffering, or will true leaders of the North emerge to break this cycle of failure?

    • Usman Muhammad Salihu, Abuja.
  • Export potential and global market entry strategies for Nigeria’s local rice

    Export potential and global market entry strategies for Nigeria’s local rice

    • By Oluwadara Alegbeleye

    Nigeria’s indigenous rice varieties, including Ofada, Igbemo, Abakaliki, and Ekpoma rice, possess unique characteristics that make them valuable beyond local markets. While these varieties are appreciated for their rich aroma, distinct taste, and nutritional profile, their potential remains largely untapped in the global grain trade. With the increasing demand for indigenous and nutrient-dense grains worldwide, Nigeria has a significant opportunity to position its local rice as a premium product in international markets. Achieving this however, requires overcoming multiple barriers and implementing strategic interventions.

    Rising global demand for indigenous and specialty grains

    Globally, there is a growing appetite for indigenous grains such as quinoa, fonio, millet, and teff, driven by health-conscious consumption trends and a demand for nutritious alternatives to highly processed grains. Specialty rice varieties, such as Thailand’s Jasmine rice and India’s Basmati rice, have successfully established international recognition due to well-structured branding, quality control, and export-focused policies. Nigerian rice could be similarly successful, if it is positioned strategically to meet global consumer expectations.

    Challenges limiting the export potential of Nigeria’s local rice

    Although Nigeria is historically a major rice producer, cultivation remains suboptimal due to several challenges. One major issue is the diversion of land for alternative purposes. In areas traditionally known for rice cultivation, such as Ofada, farmland has been increasingly converted to housing estates and other urban development projects, significantly reducing the available land for rice farming. Without strategic land-use policies, the long-term sustainability of rice farming in Nigeria remains at risk.

    Smallholder farmers, who produce most of Nigeria’s local rice, struggle with challenges such as limited access to high-quality agricultural input, as well as irrigation and modern farming techniques. Unpredictable weather patterns, pest infestation, and inadequate mechanization also contribute to inconsistent yields. Additionally, poor infrastructure, limited access to credit, and fluctuating government policies create an uncertain environment for rice farmers. To strengthen Nigeria’s rice sector before aiming for export expansion, it is critical to address these foundational issues. 

    Infrastructure gaps and quality standardization challenges

    Local rice varieties are often associated with inconsistent quality, varying grain sizes, and impurities such as stones. This reduces their competitiveness in international markets where stringent food safety and quality regulations apply. Compromised quality, but also significant post-harvest losses are exacerbated by poor storage facilities, outdated milling technologies, and inefficient supply chains, all of which further restrict export potential. To compete globally, local rice varieties should satisfy international safety thresholds such as pesticide residue limits, heavy metal contamination thresholds, and packaging regulations. Many Nigerian rice producers however struggle to meet these requirements due to weak regulatory enforcement and a lack of support for certification. To enhance the quality, marketability, and export potential of local rice varieties, it is essential to address these issues.

    Strategies to unlock export potential for local rice

    To successfully access and thrive in the global market, Nigeria must adopt a multi-pronged strategy that includes quality improvements, branding, strategic partnerships, and policy support.

    Relevant stakeholders should:

    • Invest in modern de-stoning and polishing technologies to meet international quality benchmarks.

    • Establish standardized grading systems for different Nigerian rice varieties.

    • Facilitate certification programs (e.g., ISO, HACCP, and organic certifications) to enhance credibility and acceptability in premium markets such as the EU and North America.

    • Develop traceability systems that allow consumers to verify the source and production methods of the rice they purchase.

    On the issue of branding and market positioning, relevant stakeholders should:

    • Promote Nigerian local rice through strategies such as emphasizing unique attributes like aroma, texture, and health benefits.

    • Implement strategic marketing campaigns that target health-conscious consumers, and position Nigerian rice as a whole-grain alternative to polished rice.

    • Leverage the Nigerian diaspora as ambassadors for local rice varieties, to encourage demand in international African food markets.

     On building strategic export partnerships, relevant stakeholders should:

    • Collaborate with established international distributors, supermarkets, and specialty food stores to introduce Nigerian rice to high-value markets.

    • Engage in trade fairs and food exhibitions to showcase Nigerian rice varieties to global buyers.

    • Partner with e-commerce platforms specializing in ethnic foods to reach wider audiences.

    While developing supportive trade policies and incentives, the Nigerian government should:

    • Establish dedicated export incentives for local rice producers, such as subsidies for quality enhancement and export logistics.

    • Strengthen trade agreements with key rice-importing countries to ease entry into their markets.

    • Provide financial support and training programs for smallholder farmers and processors to improve competitiveness.

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    Lessons from other countries

    India’s Basmati rice success story: India strategically marketed Basmati rice as a premium product by obtaining a Geographical Indication (GI) tag and investing heavily in quality control. Nigerian rice could benefit from a similar GI designation to protect and promote its identity.

    Thailand’s rice export model: Thailand became a major rice exporter by implementing strict quality control measures, government-backed export initiatives, and aggressive global marketing campaigns. Nigeria can adopt such strategies to boost the credibility of its rice in international markets.

    Roadmap to global expansion

    Nigeria’s indigenous rice varieties have great potential to compete in the global market, but a structured approach is required to drive success. A strategic focus on quality improvements, branding, creating relevant market linkages, and policy support, can transform Nigeria’s local rice sector into a major export industry. With the right investments and strategic execution, Nigerian rice can gain a strategic standing alongside the world’s most recognized specialty grains, in a way that drives economic growth and contributes to preserving the country’s rich agricultural heritage.

    •Alegbeleye is a microbiologist and science communicator. She holds a Ph.D. in Food Science from the University of Campinas, São Paulo.  

  • Empowering Tomorrow: The Bold Vision of the Nigerian Youth Academy

    Empowering Tomorrow: The Bold Vision of the Nigerian Youth Academy

    • By Dare Ojepe

    Amidst Africa’s vibrant landscape, where the energy of youth is both tangible and inspiring, stands a guiding light of hope and change: the Nigerian Youth Academy. With over 200 million citizens, Nigeria’s burgeoning population of young people is eager to redefine their futures. It is within this dynamic environment that the Nigerian Youth Academy sets forth an ambitious mission: to equip its youth with the skills necessary to thrive as influential contributors in the global economy.

    The demands of today’s global economy extend beyond conventional educational models. Proficiency in digital literacy, critical thinking, entrepreneurship, and adaptability has become critical in today’s job markets. In response to this evolution, the Nigerian Youth Academy has adopted a comprehensive strategy for empowering youth by focusing not only on technical expertise but also on developing the soft skills vital for success in modern workplaces.

    Central to their mission is a dedication to inclusivity and accessibility. By offering a wide variety of training programs across fields such as technology, engineering, arts, and business, the academy ensures that every Nigerian youth has an opportunity to succeed, irrespective of their socioeconomic circumstances. This democratization of education is crucial to bridging opportunity gaps and establishing an equitable platform for all young Nigerians.

    Furthermore, the academy’s collaborations with global tech leaders, educational institutions, and international bodies underscore the importance of partnerships in achieving success in our interconnected world. These collaborations expose Nigerian youth to the latest technologies and global best practices while nurturing a culture of innovation and creativity.

    Beyond technical skills, the academy prioritizes nurturing leadership qualities and fostering an entrepreneurial spirit among its students. By inspiring youth not only to seek employment but also to create opportunities, the academy will be instrumental in transitioning Nigeria from a nation of job seekers to one of job creators. This entrepreneurial mind-set is reinforced by a strong mentorship program that connects young talent with industry leaders, offering invaluable guidance and insight.

    The story of the Nigerian Youth Academy is one of hope, resilience, and transformation. In a nation where the youth are the key to a prosperous future, the academy will function as both a talent incubator and a change catalyst. As these young Nigerians join the global economy, they bring with them not only their acquired skills but also the bold ambition to reshape their world.

    Through its visionary efforts, the Nigerian Youth Academy will not only empower individuals but will also revitalize communities and inspire the nation. By doing so, it ensures that the brightest days for Nigeria’s youth are being shaped today. This is far more than an educational initiative; it is a movement that turns potential into empowerment, ambition into action, and dreams into reality. The world should take notice because the rise of Nigeria’s youth represents not just a local development but a global phenomenon.

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    The Nigerian Youth Academy represents an innovative blueprint for developmental education within Africa. Its curriculum is designed to be future forward, providing students with a solid grounding in both emerging technologies and essential life skills. This approach is particularly relevant in a country as diverse as Nigeria, where cultural, social, and economic disparities can impede uniform access to education. By leveraging hybrid learning models and digital platforms, the academy extends its reach to the remotest regions, ensuring no youth is left behind. This commitment to inclusivity not only bolsters national confidence but also serves as inspiration for other countries striving to harness their youthful potential.

    A cornerstone of the academy’s model is its emphasis on community involvement and sustainable development. The institution encourages students to engage in projects that address local challenges, helping to instil a sense of responsibility and ownership over their country’s development. By integrating service learning and community projects into its programs, the academy cultivates a generation that values social impact alongside personal success. These initiatives have the dual benefit of strengthening community ties while honing practical skills that students can apply in real-world scenarios. This holistic approach prepares individuals not just to enter the workforce but to become transformative, civic-minded leaders.

    The innovative spirit fostered by the Nigerian Youth Academy resonates deeply within its local communities, sparking a chain reaction of empowerment that permeates the very fabric of society. As students transition from learners to leaders, they carry with them the values of ingenuity and resilience instilled by the academy. This has manifested in a burgeoning culture of local entrepreneurship, where graduates are not simply applying for jobs but are actively contributing to the economic landscape by launching start-ups and small businesses. These ventures often focus on solving community issues, such as sustainable agriculture, affordable healthcare, and renewable energy solutions, showcasing the academy’s far-reaching influence and the tangible impact of its teachings.

    Beyond its immediate educational objectives, the academy will operate as a hub for cultural exchange and global awareness, connecting Nigerian youth with their international peers. Through exchange programs, international collaborations, and virtual interactions, students gain a global perspective that enriches their understanding of cultural diversity and global challenges. This exposure not only broadens their horizons but also contributes to a more interconnected and cooperative world community. By cultivating global citizens equipped with both local pride and international acumen, the Nigerian Youth Academy stands at the forefront of a movement that recognizes the power of youth as a driving force for positive global change. This dynamic interplay ensures that Nigeria’s youth, empowered by their education, are poised to leave an indelible mark on the world stage.

    As Nigeria stands on the brink of demographic and economic transformation, the Nigerian Youth Academy will play a pivotal role in shaping the country’s trajectory. By investing in the education and empowerment of its youth, Nigeria lays the foundation for sustained growth and innovation. The academy’s vision extends beyond immediate vocational training; it is about building a resilient generation capable of navigating and thriving in an ever-evolving landscape. The ripple effects of this endeavour promise to extend beyond Nigeria’s borders, positioning the nation as a leader in youth-driven development and a beacon of progress across Africa and the world.

    • Ojepe is Senior Special Assistant to the President on Youth Engagement.