The Nation Newspaper

Category: Discourse

  • How NASENI is powering the Nigeria First movement

    How NASENI is powering the Nigeria First movement

    By Khalil Suleiman Halilu

    In 1961, South Korea was a textbook case of despair. Per capita income sat below $100. Literacy rates hovered around 30%. Samsung was still a grocery trading company, and Hyundai was repairing fishing boats. But instead of outsourcing its future, Korea placed a bold bet—on its people, its industries, and on disciplined, deliberate execution.

    Today, Samsung’s market cap exceeds $260 billion. Hyundai earned over $120 billion in revenue last year. For perspective, Nigeria’s entire 2024 federal budget is about $20 billion. The lesson here isn’t to idolize Korea—it’s to recognize what becomes possible when a nation aligns purpose with policy, and ambition with action.

    At the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), we see Nigeria’s opportunity in similar terms. With 220 million people, a median age of just 18, and nearly four million young Nigerians entering the workforce every year, we’re not short on energy or ambition. But to turn this into prosperity, we need more than potential—we need a movement that aligns strategy with action: One that transforms “Nigeria First” from a policy into a shared national priority.

    When President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed the Nigeria First policy, it was not just a symbolic act. It was a hard reset: A new operating system for national development.  It is a deliberate shift toward prioritizing Nigerian-made solutions, Nigerian innovation and Nigerian enterprise. This is not politics. This is economics—with purpose.

    At NASENI, we see this not as rhetoric, but as roadmap. The data is clear: in Q3 of 2024 alone, Nigeria spent trillions of Naira on imports. A large share of that spending went toward products we have the capacity to build here—solar panels, software, machine parts, even furniture. What if we redirected even a fraction of that capital toward homegrown production? What if we bet on ourselves?

    The movement we are leading is about exactly that—putting Nigeria in motion, powered by local capability. This is not about isolationism. It is about inclusion. It is about choosing to reinvest value here at home—stimulating manufacturing, deepening our tax base, strengthening the Naira, and most importantly, creating jobs. This is not theoretical. The movement is already underway.

    In Katsina, our smart irrigation systems have doubled farm yields. In Ebonyi, we are testing locally built lithium batteries for off-grid communities. In Anambra and Ogun, we are working with manufacturers to remove friction using Nigerian-made technology. And just last year, NASENI launched 35 market-ready products, secured $3.25 billion in private and development capital, and trained over 5,000 local innovators.

    We are not only driving innovation—we are creating a new industrial backbone, built for and by Nigerians. But no movement thrives in isolation. Government must lead, but the private sector must scale. Public procurement—estimated to be 25–30% of GDP—is a powerful lever. With Nigeria’s GDP projected to reach $1.4 trillion in 2025, this means $350–$420 billion in procurement spending. Directing even half of that to Nigerian producers could unlock over 2 million jobs each year.

    This is not charity. This is smart economics. Every time a government agency chooses Nigerian-made goods—vehicles, equipment, software—they are investing in trust, signaling belief, and building the momentum of the movement. Patriotism must become more logistical than symbolic. It should live in vendor lists, procurement memos, and balance sheets.

    That’s why NASENI is scaling HatchBox—our incubation platform—to support over 10,000 innovators this year. That is why we launched the NASENI Innovation Hub with AfriLabs to provide critical infrastructure for startups. And that’s why we’re working with state governments to build regional manufacturing hubs focused on energy, agriculture, and IT—creating 10,000+ direct jobs and over 30,000 indirect ones.

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    We are also laying the groundwork for Nigeria’s first lithium-ion battery manufacturing plant—a critical step for energy independence and electric vehicle (EV) adoption. Alongside that, we are designing templates to make it easier for MDAs to source Nigerian technologies, targeting a 25% increase in local content for public procurement.

    All of this is part of a broader movement—one that says: we do not need to wait to be developed. We can build. But to do this at scale, we need coordination. Agencies must align. Budgets must serve solutions, not just systems. And policies must speak to each other—because when that happens, we go faster, together.

    Let us be clear: this movement isn’t about resisting globalization. It is about shaping it from a place of strength. It is about building a Nigeria that does not just consume value—but creates it: One that earns respect not because of our size but what we build and how we solve problems.

    We are not chasing miracles. We are compounding progress. This is what “Nigeria First” looks like—not as a slogan, but as a daily practice. One procurement decision, one innovation, one young entrepreneur at a time because our Samsung moment won’t come from imitation. It will come from commitment—to our people, our producers, and our collective power to build.

    •Halilu is Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) sent this piece from Abuja.

  • Powering the future with chemistry’s silent superpower

    Powering the future with chemistry’s silent superpower

    By Oluwasegun Olaoye

    The world stands at a defining moment in its industrial and environmental evolution. As we confront the realities of climate change, rising energy demands, and the depletion of fossil fuel reserves, a pressing question emerges: How can we pursue sustainable industrialisation without sacrificing economic growth or stability? The answer, perhaps unexpectedly, lies not solely in massive infrastructure projects or sweeping policy overhauls, but in the meticulous, finely tuned world of molecular transformations. At the heart of these processes is a concept that has long powered much of modern chemistry and industry—catalysis.

    Catalysis is the unsung hero of modern life—a silent engine that accelerates chemical reactions while remaining unchanged at the end of the process. This deceptively simple characteristic has enabled breakthroughs across countless industries, influencing everything from fuel and plastic production to pharmaceuticals and fertilisers. More importantly, catalysis holds the promise of a greener future, offering the tools to drive sustainable chemistry and environmentally conscious technologies.

    To grasp the role of catalysis, consider an analogy: imagine a hiker faced with crossing a mountain range. The journey is long and strenuous. But a tunnel through the mountain—a catalytic shortcut—allows the hiker to pass through quickly and with less effort. In a chemical reaction, the reactants are the hiker, and the catalyst is the tunnel: it provides a lower-energy pathway for transformation into products. This unique ability to reduce activation energy makes catalysts indispensable. Reactions that would otherwise be sluggish, inefficient, or prohibitively energy-intensive become not only feasible but economically viable. Much of the global chemical industry’s efficiency and profitability rests on this principle. Yet, the true brilliance of catalysis lies not only in its speed but in its selectivity—its ability to be finely tuned to favour specific reaction pathways and yield only the desired products, minimising waste and conserving energy.

    While clean energy discussions often spotlight solar panels, electric vehicles, and wind turbines, catalysis quietly powers many of these innovations. Take hydrogen fuel, for instance—a potential pillar of future clean energy systems. Producing it sustainably depends on water-splitting reactions driven by electrocatalysts. Without effective catalysts, these reactions require immense energy input, rendering hydrogen production inefficient on a large scale. Similarly, the conversion of carbon dioxide—the chief culprit in climate change—into useful chemicals or fuels is rooted in catalytic processes. Known as COS utilisation, this field seeks to transform a harmful greenhouse gas into valuable products like methanol or formic acid. These innovations not only reduce emissions but also help build circular economies, where waste is continuously repurposed as a resource.

    Moreover, biofuel refinement—a sector of growing importance, especially in developing regions—relies heavily on catalytic hydrogenation. The objective is to transform raw vegetable oils or animal fats into cleaner, more efficient fuels. Without catalysts, these processes would require extreme temperatures and pressures, undermining the very goal of sustainable and energy-efficient alternatives. Catalysts play a role in over 90 per cent of chemical manufacturing processes. Though largely invisible to the average consumer, their influence is profound. Take the Haber-Bosch process, for example: this century-old innovation uses iron-based catalysts to facilitate the reaction of nitrogen and hydrogen into ammonia under manageable conditions. It is no exaggeration to say that this single catalytic process feeds nearly half of the global population, thanks to its contribution to fertiliser production and agricultural productivity.

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    Petrochemical refineries also rely extensively on catalysis. From cracking long-chain hydrocarbons and removing sulphur impurities to enhancing octane ratings in gasoline, a suite of catalytic processes ensures that every drop of fuel extracted from crude oil is optimised for energy efficiency and performance. Each tank of fuel represents the end result of a complex catalytic journey. In the pharmaceutical industry, catalysis takes on an even more precise role. Asymmetric catalysis—the use of catalysts to selectively produce molecules with a specific chirality—is essential for creating drugs that interact accurately with biological systems. This precision reduces side effects, improves efficacy, and lowers manufacturing costs. In this sense, catalysis isn’t just a tool for molecular transformation—it’s a cornerstone of precision medicine.

    Yet, despite these remarkable successes, catalysis faces significant challenges. Many conventional catalysts depend on rare or toxic metals, such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium. These elements are not only costly to obtain and refine, but they also carry substantial environmental and ethical concerns. To counter this, researchers are turning to earth-abundant metals like iron, cobalt, and nickel. These alternatives offer the promise of more sustainable catalysis, though their efficiency, durability, and selectivity often fall short of their precious-metal counterparts. Intensive research is underway to close this performance gap and usher in a new generation of green catalysts.

    Another exciting avenue is the advancement of biocatalysts—enzymes sourced from nature that can catalyse reactions under mild, environmentally friendly conditions. Their unmatched specificity and ability to function in aqueous environments reduce the need for harmful solvents. However, the transition from lab to industry requires overcoming hurdles related to stability, activity, and scalability. Frontiers like photocatalysis and electrocatalysis are also gaining momentum. These methods harness light and electricity—often using nanostructured materials—to drive chemical reactions. In a world increasingly powered by solar and renewable energy, such technologies offer promising, fossil-free pathways for fuel and chemical production.

    In today’s era of environmental urgency, the concept of a circular economy—where resources are continuously reused and waste is minimised—has captured global imagination. Catalysis is central to realising this vision. It enables the depolymerisation of plastics back into their building blocks for closed-loop recycling. It facilitates the conversion of organic waste into biogas or compost. It transforms industrial emissions into valuable feedstocks for new products. Consider catalytic pyrolysis, a process that breaks down waste plastics into useful oils and gases, which can then be refined into fuels or raw materials. This approach not only addresses the escalating crisis of plastic pollution but also reduces dependency on virgin petrochemical resources.

    In wastewater treatment, catalytic processes degrade persistent organic pollutants—toxic compounds that resist conventional biological treatment. Advanced oxidation processes, often powered by transition metal catalysts or light-activated materials, play a critical role in breaking these pollutants down into harmless byproducts. While catalysis continues to underpin industrial innovation and environmental remediation, public understanding of its significance remains remarkably limited. This lack of awareness can impede investment in research and slow the adoption of catalytic technologies—particularly in developing regions, where they are needed most. A concerted global effort is essential to demystify catalysis, presenting it not as a niche scientific concept, but as a cornerstone of modern civilisation and sustainable progress.

    Educational systems must take the lead. Curricular reforms at both secondary and tertiary levels should integrate real-world examples of catalysis, helping students appreciate chemistry as a solution-oriented science—one that addresses fundamental human needs: clean water, breathable air, nutritious food and life-saving medicines. Beyond classrooms, public science communication through interactive exhibitions, compelling documentaries and policy dialogues can help elevate the profile of catalysis. The more society understands its relevance, the stronger the public and political support for catalyst-driven innovation.

    However, catalysis research is resource intensive. It demands sophisticated laboratories, high-precision instruments and interdisciplinary expertise. Governments and international development bodies must prioritise funding for catalytic science, especially within the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In parallel, policy incentives that reward green manufacturing and penalise polluting practice can drive demand for catalytic alternatives across industries. Crucially, we must bridge the gap between discovery and deployment. Strong partnerships between academia, industry and government are key to ensuring that breakthroughs in catalysis do not remain confined to scholarly journals but are translated into real-world solutions with commercial and societal impact.

    Catalysis may operate silently, often unseen at the molecular level, but its influence is vast and transformative. As the world races to decarbonise industries, transition to clean energy and strengthen supply chains, catalysis will be a driving force behind the scenes. The challenge of our generation is to harness this silent engine wisely and creatively. By investing in research, reimagining education and accelerating industrial integration, we can unlock the full potential of catalysis—not just for economic advancement, but for planetary survival. Let us not settle for reaction as usual. Let us catalyse change—molecule by molecule—toward a more sustainable, equitable, and scientifically enlightened world.

    • Dr. Olaoye, an expert in inorganic and physical chemistry with a focus on catalysis, hydrogenation and sustainable chemical processes, is a dedicated lecturer and researcher committed to science communication, academic mentorship and green chemistry innovation

  • Two years of purposeful leadership: Eno’s mid-term report in Akwa Ibom

    Two years of purposeful leadership: Eno’s mid-term report in Akwa Ibom

    • By Ubong Akpan

    As Governor Umo Eno marks two years in office as the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, the administration is undoubtedly anchored on inclusive governance, grassroots empowerment, rural development, peacebuilding, and pragmatic leadership. From the onset, the administration declared its intent through the ARISE Agenda, a people-centered blueprint targeting Agriculture, Rural Development, Infrastructure, Security, and Education. Two years down the line, it is evident that this vision is being steadily translated into impactful action across all sectors.

    Governor Umo Eno’s administration has placed significant emphasis on economic empowerment at the grassroots. Through various initiatives under the ARISE Agenda, over 677 small and micro-business owners in the Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency alone have benefitted from more than N300 million in grants, equipment, and vehicles. The beneficiaries include farmers, traders, artisans, and transporters, an intentional push toward inclusive economic growth.

    In a symbolic event held at the Itu Local Government Council Secretariat, Governor Eno emphasized that the empowerment programs were devoid of political bias, making them accessible to all Akwa Ibomites irrespective of party affiliation. “Hunger knows no party,” the governor declared, reiterating that empowerment must be based on merit and verifiable need. This moral high ground has earned the administration widespread admiration across party lines.

    To address food inflation and youth unemployment, the administration has taken deliberate steps to revamp the agriculture sector. Over 3,000 hectares of land have been earmarked for mechanized farming across several LGAs, and the state government has launched cooperative farming clusters with input support schemes. The ARISE Agricultural Investment Initiative is encouraging youth-led agribusinesses, with emphasis on value-chain development in rice, cassava, and poultry production.

    The establishment of the Akwa Ibom Bulk Purchase Agency to buy produce directly from farmers and resell at subsidized rates has mitigated the rising cost of living, especially in urban areas. This dual-pronged approach ensures both market access for rural farmers and affordable food for urban residents.

    Rural development is arguably one of the most visible achievements of the Umo Eno administration. Over 72 rural roads have either been completed or are under construction across the three senatorial districts, connecting agrarian communities to market hubs. Projects like the Ikot Akpan Abia–Etinan Road, Ndiya–Urua Inyang Road, and several bridges have opened up hinterlands that were previously inaccessible during the rainy season.

    The administration has also prioritized the construction and rehabilitation of primary healthcare centers and schools in rural areas, signaling a commitment to inclusive development. The governor believes that development must be “felt, not just promised,” and this principle continues to guide public investments.

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    Governor Umo Eno’s government has taken bold steps to address educational inequalities in the state. The revival of model primary and secondary schools equipped with e-learning tools is part of a broader strategy to raise learning standards. Teacher recruitment, training, and welfare have also improved significantly.

    In higher education, Akwa Ibom State University has seen increased funding for infrastructure, faculty, and research. Scholarship programs targeting indigent students and STEM-focused disciplines have been launched, preparing a new generation of professionals.

    Additionally, the administration has created over 5,000 jobs and skills training opportunities through its Youth Skills Development Programme (YSDP), collaborating with the private sector for training in ICT, fashion design, welding, and other vocations.

    Healthcare delivery has seen a significant boost. The Umo Eno administration has completed and equipped more than 25 primary healthcare centres, and refurbished general hospitals across key locations in the state. The Free Medical Outreach program has treated over 100,000 residents, offering surgeries, maternal health services, and vaccinations.

    The state has also scaled up efforts in health insurance enrollment under the Akwa Ibom State Health Insurance Agency (AKSHIA) to widen access to affordable care. The government has made a deliberate push for rural maternal and child health through mobile clinics and solar-powered cold chain systems for vaccines.

    Underpinning all development strides is a stable security environment, a hallmark of Governor Umo Eno’s leadership. Through collaboration with security agencies, community vigilantes, and traditional rulers, the state has maintained its status as one of the most peaceful in the Niger Delta region.

    The creation of the Peace and Conflict Resolution Office within the Ministry of Internal Security has helped mediate communal disputes before they escalate. This proactive peace architecture has attracted investors and reassured citizens of their safety.

    Akwa Ibom’s potential as a tourism destination is being steadily actualized. The governor has launched the Ibom Heritage Festival, revived the state’s arts and culture calendar, and initiated infrastructure upgrades at key tourism sites like Ibeno Beach, Ibom Plaza, and Unity Park.

    These efforts have boosted local entrepreneurship and provided a platform for young creatives. With the upcoming Ibom Creative Hub, the administration plans to position the state as a hub for film, fashion, and music in the South-South.

    Governor Eno has embraced digital transformation in governance, launching the Akwa Ibom Digital Governance Initiative, which includes e-procurement and open budgeting systems. The ARISE Feedback App, a real-time citizen engagement tool, allows residents to report issues and track government responses.

    These efforts at transparency have strengthened public trust and minimized bureaucratic corruption. The administration’s lean cabinet structure and prudent fiscal management have also been widely commended.

    As Governor Umo Eno crosses the midpoint of his first term, the roadmap ahead is clear: consolidate on gains, complete ongoing projects, and deepen citizen engagement. His leadership style—humble yet firm, inclusive yet focused—has endeared him to many as a new breed of leader in Nigeria’s evolving democratic landscape.

    With deliberate policies, grassroots touchpoints, and effective implementation, the Eno administration continues to turn the ARISE Agenda from a campaign slogan into a lived reality.

    Two years into his tenure, Governor Umo Eno has positioned Akwa Ibom on a steady path of inclusive growth and sustainable development. From youth empowerment to rural infrastructure, from healthcare to agriculture, the administration is laying a solid foundation for a prosperous future. His story so far is not one of flamboyance but of quiet, determined progress—one village, one road, one life at a time.

    If the pace continues, the governor may very well go down as one of the most impactful leaders in the history of Akwa Ibom State.

    •Akpan writes from Uyo

  • Sani at mid-term: Steering Kaduna into a new era of industrial, inclusive growth

    Sani at mid-term: Steering Kaduna into a new era of industrial, inclusive growth

    • By Abubakar Adamu

    Reflecting on the stewardship of the dynamic governor of Kaduna State, Uba Sani, gives hope to the state and her people that were poorly treated by the past government. Under his watch, Kaduna state stands on the brink of an economic and social renaissance. From industrial breakthroughs to grassroots development, his administration has made strong strides in building a more inclusive, economically vibrant, and secure Kaduna.

    Ascending office in May 2023 with a commitment to open up the state, foster unity among ethnic and religious groups, and harness vast opportunities , Governor Sani has taken bold steps to recalibrate the state’s priorities, pivoting towards industrialization, youth empowerment, education, and equitable infrastructure distribution. The establishment of Nigeria’s first lithium processing plant, which appears to be his boldest move, positions Kaduna as a key player in Africa’s fast-growing clean energy economy.

    In a country eager to diversify its economy beyond oil, Governor Uba Sani’s decision to build Nigeria’s first lithium processing plant in Kangimi village, along the Kaduna-Jos corridor, is nothing short of visionary. Lithium is the critical mineral powering electric vehicles, batteries, and future technologies globally.

    According to Alhaji Abubakar Buba, Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, the plant is already operational and boasts an astonishing daily processing capacity of over 30,000 tonnes of lithium. This strategic move positions Kaduna not only as a mineral-rich state but as a hub for green technology investment.

    The project reflects the Governor’s broader strategy to turn Kaduna into the solid minerals capital of Nigeria, with over 70 mineral resources including lithium, gold, tin, coltan, wolframite, titanium, and iron. Through the Kaduna Mining Development Company, the state has acquired 18 new mineral titles, setting the groundwork for long-term economic expansion and job creation.

    Beyond production, the Sani administration is developing a comprehensive Mining Development Roadmap in partnership with Core International Marketing and Management Ltd, aimed at guiding investors and improving regulation in the sector.

    Understanding that local cooperation is critical to sustainable mining, Governor Sani adopted an innovative strategy to convert illegal miners into cooperative societies, integrating them into the formal economy. These miners, mostly locals with intimate knowledge of the terrain—now serve as community guides and labor partners to investors, reducing environmental abuse and boosting local employment.

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    “Out of the Governor’s magnanimity, he graciously agreed that we should form cooperative societies of these illegal miners. They now serve as the foot soldiers for any investor that is coming,” said Commissioner Buba. This inclusive approach is already yielding dividends by improving surveillance, reducing crime, and empowering communities.

    Governor Sani’s reformist posture is reflected in the fiscal growth witnessed in the mining sector alone. In the last two quarters of 2024, Kaduna generated over ₦30 million from mining activities, a figure projected to double in 2025 as full-scale operations from the lithium plant and other mining ventures come onstream.

    The administration has also focused on revamping the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR) system, leveraging digital platforms for tax collection, land documentation, and permit issuance. These reforms are reducing leakages and improving transparency.

    A key highlight of Governor Sani’s mid-term scorecard is Kaduna’s leadership in climate governance. The state became the first sub-national entity in Nigeria to develop both a State Climate Policy and a Position Statement, marking a significant step towards carbon neutrality and resilience in a region heavily affected by desertification and flooding.

    To reduce dependence on firewood and charcoal, which contribute to deforestation—the government, in collaboration with ACReSAL (Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes), trained over 500 women and youths in briquette production, providing alternative cooking fuel that is affordable, clean, and sustainable.

    Additionally, through a partnership with Women’s Initiative on Sustainable Environment (WISE), the government distributed clean cooking stoves to over 400 households, significantly cutting harmful emissions and improving public health.

    Governor Sani understands that the future of Kaduna lies in the hands of its youth. His administration has scaled up vocational training programs across the 23 local governments, focusing on agribusiness, renewable energy, ICT, and technical trades. These initiatives are housed under the newly revitalized Kaduna State Skills Acquisition Centres and the Job Creation Unit, where thousands of young people are being prepared for the evolving global economy.

    Under his leadership, Kaduna has become a top destination for digital and tech innovation, with growing partnerships with private sector players and development organizations to build IT hubs, support coding programs, and foster digital entrepreneurship.

    In healthcare, the Uba Sani administration has rehabilitated over 150 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) and improved their staffing through new recruitments and incentives. The state has also expanded coverage under its State Health Insurance Scheme, improving access to affordable medical care, especially for rural and vulnerable populations.

    In education, the government has completed the construction and renovation of over 300 classrooms, equipped public schools with instructional materials, and launched an aggressive teacher training initiative. A special focus has been placed on girls’ education, with scholarship programs and sanitary support provided to ensure retention and learning continuity.

    Kaduna, once notorious for banditry and insurgency in some parts, has seen relative improvement in security under the current administration, thanks to better synergy with federal security agencies and increased investment in intelligence-led policing.

    The Governor has also committed to road development projects connecting urban and rural zones. From the ongoing Maraban Rido–Sabon Tasha dual carriageway to rural feeder roads that facilitate trade and farming, Kaduna’s infrastructure network is steadily expanding.

    Additionally, Kaduna’s inclusion into the Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (HYPPADEC) under Governor Sani’s watch ensures that the state will receive special funds for power and infrastructure development in riverine communities. Unlike his immediate predecessor Nasir El-rufai, Governor Sani has governed with a steady hand, consulting widely, respecting institutional frameworks, and communicating transparently with citizens. His quarterly ministerial press briefings, town hall meetings, and policy dialogues have enhanced public trust and accountability.

    His administration’s recognition by local and international partners—along with Kaduna’s rating as the cleanest city in North-West Nigeria in 2024, reflects rising civic participation.

    At the midpoint of his first term, Governor Uba Sani has successfully repositioned Kaduna State as a beacon of innovation, sustainability, and inclusive governance. From launching Nigeria’s first lithium plant to empowering youths, greening the environment, and revitalizing public institutions, his administration is laying a strong foundation for long-term prosperity.

    If the second half of his tenure builds on this momentum, Governor Sani’s legacy will likely be remembered not only for what he built—but for the futures he empowered and the systems he restored in one of Nigeria’s most pivotal states.

     •Adamu writes from Kaduna

  • ‘Our journey not over, but direction is clear’

    ‘Our journey not over, but direction is clear’

    Text of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s speech to mark the second anniversary of his administration.

    Fellow Nigerians, as we mark the second anniversary of our administration, I salute your resilience and undaunting spirit. Two years ago, you entrusted me with the sacred responsibility to lead our nation at a time of historic challenges. Together, we have faced these headwinds with courage and determination.

    The economic and general situation of the country I inherited required that we redirect the country’s affairs with a bold and new vision. I immediately implemented two necessary policies to stop our country from further drifting into the precipice. It was apparent that if the federal government and the other two tiers of government must remain viable and cater to the citizens’ welfare, we must do away with decades-long fuel subsidies and the corruption-ridden multiple foreign exchange windows. The two were no longer sustainable and have become a chokehold on our nation’s neck, strangling our nation’s future.

    While our administration has implemented the reforms to restore and reinvigorate our national economy and strengthen our social fabric as a strong and united country, I must thank my fellow citizens for your unrelenting support and belief in the grand vision we share to uplift our nation and renew our collective hopes and aspirations.

    We are halfway through the journey that began 24 months ago. Today, May 29, 2025, offers our administration the opportunity to share again how far we have gone and our progress in steering our country along the critical path of socio-economic development.

    When we embarked on this journey, propelled by a burst of hope and abiding faith in Nigeria’s unity and progress, I made a pledge before God and fellow countrymen and women to confront Nigeria’s challenges head-on by rebuilding trust, fostering prosperity, and restoring our nation’s economic health. Today, I proudly affirm that our economic reforms are working. We are on course to building a greater, more economically stable nation.

    Under our Renewed Hope Agenda, our administration pledged to tackle economic instability, improve security nationwide, reduce corruption, reform governance, and lift our people out of poverty.

    While implementing the reforms necessary to strengthen our economy and deliver shared prosperity, we have remained honest by acknowledging some of the difficulties experienced by our compatriots and families. We do not take your patience for granted. I must restate that the only alternative to the reforms our administration initiated was a fiscal crisis that would have bred runaway inflation, external debt default, crippling fuel shortages, a plunging Naira, and an economy in a free-fall.

    Despite the bump in the cost of living, we have made undeniable progress.

    Inflation has begun to ease, with rice prices and other staples declining. The oil and gas sector is recovering; rig counts are up by over 400% in 2025 compared to 2021, and over $8 billion in new investments have been committed. We have stabilised our economy and are now better positioned for growth and prepared to withstand global shocks.

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    In 2025, we remain on track with our fiscal targets. Gross proceeds per barrel from crude oil are broadly aligned with our forecasts as we intensify our efforts to ramp up production. Our fiscal deficit has narrowed sharply from 5.4% of GDP in 2023 to 3.0% in 2024. We achieved this through improved revenue generation and greater transparency in government finances. In the first quarter of this year, we recorded over N6 trillion in revenue.

    We have discontinued Ways & Means financing, which has been a major contributor to high and sticky inflation. The NNPC, no longer burdened by unsustainable fuel subsidies, is now a net contributor to the Federation Account. We are also achieving fuel supply security through local refining.

    Our debt position is improving. While foreign exchange revaluation pushed our debt-to-GDP ratio to around 53%, our debt service-to-revenue ratio dropped from nearly 100% in 2022 to under 40% by 2024. We paid off our IMF obligations and grew our net external reserves by almost 500% from $4 billion in 2023 to over $23 billion by the end of 2024.

    Thanks to our reforms, state revenue increased by over N6 trillion in 2024, ensuring that subnational governments can reduce their debt burden, meet salaries and pension obligations on a timely basis, and invest more in critical infrastructure and human capital development.

    One of our administration’s most impactful achievements is our bold tax reform agenda, which is already yielding results. By the end of 2024, our tax-to-GDP ratio rose from 10% to over 13.5%, a remarkable leap in just one year. This was not by accident. It results from deliberate improvement in our tax administration and policies designed to make our tax system fairer, more efficient, and more growth-oriented.

    We are eliminating the burden of multiple taxation, making it easier for small businesses to grow and join the formal economy. The tax reforms will protect low-income households and support workers by expanding their disposable income. Essential goods and services such as food, education, and healthcare will now attract 0% VAT. Rent, public transportation, and renewable energy will be fully exempted from VAT to reduce household costs further.

    We are ending the era of wasteful and opaque tax waivers. Instead, we have introduced targeted and transparent incentives supporting high-impact manufacturing, technology, and agriculture sectors. These reforms are not just about revenue but about stimulating inclusive economic growth.

    There is a deliberate focus on our youth, who a friendlier tax environment for digital jobs and remote work will empower. Through export incentives, Nigerian businesses will be able to compete globally. Our National Single Window project streamlines international trade, reduces delays, and enhances Nigeria’s competitiveness.

    To promote fairness and accountability, we are establishing a Tax Ombudsman, an independent institution that will protect vulnerable taxpayers and ensure the system works for everyone, especially small businesses.

    Most importantly, we are laying the foundation for a more sustainable future by introducing a new national fiscal policy. This strategic framework will guide our approach to fair taxation, responsible borrowing, and disciplined spending.

    These reforms are designed to reduce the cost of living, promote economic justice, and build a business-friendly economy that attracts investment and supports every Nigerian. Together, we are creating a system where prosperity is shared, and no one is left behind.

    We have breathed new life into the Solid Minerals sector as part of our efforts to diversify the economy. Revenue has increased phenomenally, and investors are setting up processing plants as the sector dumps the old pit-to-port policy and embraces a new value-added policy.

    We have also repositioned our health sector despite all odds.

    Over 1,000 Primary Health Centres are being revitalised nationwide. An additional 5,500 PHCs are being upgraded under our Renewed Hope Health Agenda. We are establishing Six new cancer treatment centres. Three are ready. We offer free dialysis services in pilot tertiary hospitals and subsidise the service in others. Under the Presidential Maternal Health Initiative, over 4,000 women have undergone free cesarean sections. Lastly, we have expanded Health Insurance Coverage from 16 million to 20 million within two years.

    As a result of our bold and deliberate policies, the economy is growing stronger again. Real GDP rose by 4.6% in Q4 2024, with full-year growth of 3.4%. This is one of the strongest in a decade.

    Without a responsive and reliable national security infrastructure that can protect lives and properties, our economy will not perform optimally, and those who seek to harm us will impair and disrupt our way of life. Our administration is committed to the security and safety of our people. For our government, protecting our people and their peaceful way of life is the utmost priority.

    Since I assumed our country’s leadership, our administration has improved collaboration among security agencies, increased intelligence-driven operations, and better ensured the welfare of our armed forces and security personnel. I use this opportunity to salute the courage and everyday sacrifice of our service men and women. We may not always witness the tremendous efforts they make to keep us safe, but we benefit every day from the results of their dedication. Even if we do not thank them often enough, they willingly face danger so we can go about our lives freely and without fear.

    Our military, police, and intelligence agencies are committed to always responding to emerging security threats and new challenges because it is the patriotic duty they owe a grateful nation.

    Amid the new security challenges, we can report some successes. In some areas of the northwest, hitherto under the control of bandits, our gallant armed forces have restored order, reducing and eliminating threats to lives and livelihoods. With the success achieved, farmers are back tilling the land to feed us. Highways, hitherto dangerous for travellers, have become safer. Our security agencies have succeeded many times in rescuing the abducted citizens from the hands of their tormentors. I promise you, we shall remain vigilant, as I told security chiefs during the last meeting to up their game and collaborate to end this plague of evil men. Every Nigerian deserves to live without fear.

    Outside of Security, we have prioritised human capital development as a central pillar of our national development strategy.

    To this end, we have significantly expanded access to quality education through infrastructure investments and the student loan scheme to support indigent students in tertiary institutions. Through the Renewed Hope Health initiative, our administration has begun equipping health facilities and deploying skilled personnel to unserved areas. We are also strengthening our response to public health threats and implementing targeted social investment schemes.

    Our youth empowerment initiatives include access to funds, skill development, and creating employment opportunities. Through our MSME support, we empower the next generation and bridge inequality. In our mission to empower the next generation, we have taken bold steps to place young Nigerians at the heart of national development. Nowhere is this more evident than at the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), where the current management is making giant strides. NASENI has embraced a digital-first approach, introduced real-time dashboards, and implemented end-to-end e-procurement through its Unified ERP System—setting a new governance benchmark for public institutions.

    Through bold, high-impact programmes like Innovate Naija, Irrigate Nigeria, the Asset Restoration Programme, and the Renewable Energy and Innovation Park in Gora, NASENI drives inclusive industrialisation at scale. From assembling electric vehicles and reviving idle assets to launching Africa’s most advanced Rapid Diagnostic Kit Factory and training female drone engineers through the NASCAV programme, these initiatives are creating jobs, restoring dignity to work, and opening up a future of possibilities for our youth. This is the movement we promised—a government of action powered by the energy and innovation of young Nigerians.

    Agriculture and food security are top priorities of our Renewed Hope Agenda. We have launched aggressive initiatives to boost local food production, support farmers, and stabilise food prices. We have also invested in mechanised farming by procuring thousands of tractors, other farming tools, and fertilisers.

    Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the federal government has continued with major road construction and rehabilitation projects across all geopolitical zones, from the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Dual Carriageway, the 9th Mile-Oturkpo-Makurdi Road, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, Abuja-Lokoja-Benin Road, Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, Oyo-OgbomosoRoad, Sokoto-Badagry Road, Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway, Second Niger Bridge Access Road to Bodo-Bonny Road among hundreds of ongoing road projects across the country.

    We have launched initiatives to improve electricity generation by upgrading generation and transmission infrastructure and investing in off-grid solar energy to power our homes, business premises, industries, schools and hospitals.

    In the spirit of democracy and national renewal, we are preparing to welcome the world to Nigeria soon for the Motherland Festival. This landmark gathering will spotlight our rich heritage, dynamic creative industries, and the vibrant energy of our people. It will showcase Nigeria’s beauty through tourism, culture, and innovation, inviting the world to rediscover our nation.

    The Nigerian diaspora plays a vital role in our national transformation. Their expertise, investment, and global perspective are key to shaping the future we seek. In recognition, the government has introduced policies like the diaspora bond and the non-resident Bank Verification Number to make it easier for Nigerians abroad to invest, engage, and contribute meaningfully to the country’s progress.

    The Motherland Festival will bring together voices from across the continent and the diaspora in a decisive moment of unity and purpose, affirming that Nigeria is not only a leader in Africa but a committed global partner ready to engage, inspire, and lead.

    Once again, I acknowledge the sacrifices many Nigerians have made and continue to make as we reposition our country, not just for today but for generations yet unborn. Our journey is not over, but our direction is clear. So is our resolve to tackle emerging challenges. By the Grace of God, we are confident that the worst is behind us. The real impact of our governance objectives is beginning to take hold. The future is bright, and together, we will build a stronger, more inclusive Nigeria that we can all be proud of.

    Thank you all, and May God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

  • Two years of Tinubu: A time for truth, unity, patriotic resolve

    Two years of Tinubu: A time for truth, unity, patriotic resolve

    By Ibrahim Adekunle Yusuf

    As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu marks his second year in office, Nigerians must pause—not merely to criticize or commend, but to reflect with honesty, unity, and a patriotic sense of responsibility.

    A Nation at the brink: The context often ignored

    When President Tinubu assumed office in May 2023, Nigeria was facing an economic disaster of historic proportions. The country was using 96% of its revenue just to service debt. The petrol subsidy had become a conduit for massive corruption, costing trillions annually. Future oil revenues had been mortgaged, and forex round-tripping had hollowed out the naira. The nation’s reserves were dwindling. Left unchecked, Nigeria was heading the way of Venezuela and Zimbabwe—where citizens now cross borders to buy bread and medicine, and their currencies are practically worthless.

    The courage to choose reform over ruin

    In that moment of national peril, President Tinubu made a difficult but necessary choice: to dismantle the subsidy regime, liberalize the naira, and begin restoring fiscal sanity. These reforms were painful, but essential. Without them, a loaf of bread could easily cost N10,000 today, and a litre of petrol N50,000. Those who now complain would have had no country left to complain about.

    Across the world, from the UK to the US to Germany, citizens have endured austerity and reform with resilience. Britain took nearly 15 years to fix its economic decline; Germany and America needed three or more. Nigeria cannot be different. Real reform demands time, discipline, and national unity.

    Opposition or opportunism?

    It is disheartening that instead of informed debate, we are witnessing waves of misinformation, protests incited by former beneficiaries of the broken system, and tribalized politicking. These voices, often from elite circles, would rather see chaos than progress, and in crisis, they will be the first to flee—leaving the ordinary Nigerian to suffer.

    A simple web search would show how grave the economic situation was before 2023 and why these reforms were non-negotiable. This is not the time for emotional outbursts or empty outrage. It is time for every Nigerian to rise above politics and tribe, and stand for the nation’s future.

    Read Also: 10 essential skills Nigerian graduates must possess to get hired in 2025

    Signs of progress: A new Foundation is being laid

    Despite inherited constraints, President Tinubu’s administration is already laying down vital pillars of renewal:

    •Students Loan Act – Unlocking education for millions.

    •Consumer Credit Scheme – Powering productivity and dignity.

    •Refinery Revivals – Restoring energy independence.

    •Federal Ministry of Livestock Development – Addressing food security and agricultural reform.

    Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road & Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway – Game-changing infrastr•ucture with long-term economic impacts.

    These are not abstract plans; they are tangible foundations for a sustainable future.

    A call for national patriotism, not pessimism

    Nigeria’s greatest challenge today is not policy—it is patriotism. In other nations, even the most divided political opponents draw a red line at sabotaging national survival. Here, some amplify hardship, hoping to reap political gain. We must rise above this.

    The journey is long, but the road has direction. True change is never convenient, but it is always necessary. What President Tinubu has done is to halt a free fall. What we now need is citizen alignment with national interest.

    Conclusion: A Salute to Steadfast Leadership

    As we mark two years of the Tinubu administration, let us replace noise with knowledge, bitterness with balance, and cynicism with citizenship. Reform is never comfortable, but it is our only path to a truly sovereign, prosperous Nigeria.

    I salute President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his rare courage, strategic foresight, and unwavering leadership in the face of inherited chaos. Let us support, not sabotage. Let us build, not break.

    Yusuf is a Political Strategist & Advocate for Democratic Stability; former Organising Secretary, APC UK Chapter; UK Coordinator, Mandate Movement of Nigeria; former Coordinator, SWAGA’23 UK Chapter; founder, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu (Jagaban Borgu) Mandate Movement of Nigeria (Facebook)

  • Shettima: Two years in the saddle with a visionary, historical reformer

    Shettima: Two years in the saddle with a visionary, historical reformer

    By Stanley Nkwocha

    The trademark of governance in a democracy is its regular consolidation. This has been the challenge with Nigeria’s democratic journey since 1999. Yearly, at individual and corporate governance levels, aspirations are set out to be pursued – objectives to be achieved and missions to which unflinching commitment is required. Where the vision is strong, the pursuit is fierce.

    The slogan of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu presidency on assumption of office on May 29, 2023 was, and remains, a significant cut-down on insecurity, poverty, enhanced transparency in the conduct of government affairs and management of the nation’s commonwealth, increased provision of infrastructures as well as enhancing economic condition of Nigerians.

    In this pursuit, President Tinubu and his deputy, Vice President Kashim Shettima, set out to pursue economic transformation with all the vigour available to them. They spent the first few months criss-crossing the length and breadth of the global investment space, all in a bid to explain to the world the ease of doing business in Nigeria and why the country should be the investor’s delight.

    Undoubtedly, the last two years of President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima have unveiled what is possible where a president is engrossed in selfless service to his nation, and his deputy is devoted to his boss’s policies, principles and ideals. Senator Shettima has consistently declared that he will remain loyal to his principal, President Tinubu, whom he has described as a reformer, builder and visionary leader. At various fora, he has constantly assured Nigerians that the President is fully committed to his campaign promises encapsulated in the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    Two years down the line, it is evident that the administration’s multi-pronged approach is working. The economy has witnessed positive growth in the last two years and is progressing strongly. Just like the President has maintained that he will not have respite until Nigeria’s reputation as a $1trillion economy and investment destination is restored, his deputy, Senator Shettima has sustained the tempo in his capacity as Chairman of the National Economic Council (NEC), with meaningful government interventions, programmes and initiatives being spearheaded in the office of the Vice President.

    Below are some of the key accomplishments of the Tinubu administration initiated and overseen by the office of the Vice President in the last two years:

    AGRICULTURE

    It has been manifestly clear from the beginning in 2025, when President Tinubu was seeking the position of the president of the country, that agriculture was going to be the major thrust of his administration. It is not surprising to see the President living up to that promise. The administration set out a regime of incentives to make farming more attractive once again, as it was in the 60s when Nigeria had groundnut pyramids in the North, cocoa in the West and palm oil in the East. Then Nigeria had enough to feed its population and an excess for export.

    To this effect, Vice President Shettima embarked on international diplomacy to attract agricultural investments. As chairman of the NEC, he has been overseeing several agricultural initiatives. At the 3rd Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Forum in China in November 2023, he promoted Nigeria as a safe investment destination for the agricultural sector. During his visit to the United States for the African Development Bank (AfDB) World Food Prize-facilitated Norman Borlaug International Dialogue, he sought investors’ commitments towards Nigeria’s agro-food sector development.

    The Tinubu administration, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the American agricultural machinery manufacturer John Deere. The partnership aims to establish a tractor assembly plant in Nigeria to boost agricultural mechanisation and food production. Under the agreement, John Deere is to supply about 2,000 tractors annually to Nigeria over the next five years. The Vice President played a key role in initiating this partnership during his visit to the United States, where he met with John Deere officials.

    Also, the international engagement tripled the African Development Bank’s (AfDB) agricultural interventions in Nigeria from $500 million to over $1 billion. The cumulative effects of the commitment from AfDB include the groundbreaking for the federal government’s Specialised Agro-Processing Zones (SAPZ) recently performed in Kaduna and Cross River State to revitalise Nigeria’s agricultural sector and reduce food import dependence. SAPZs are designed to industrialise rural economies by adding value to agricultural products, attracting investment, and reducing youth unemployment. Others are improved fertiliser availability for farmers, the establishment of Agro-Rangers to address farm security issues, and the implementation of modern agricultural practices.

    In a bid to advance the Green Imperative Agricultural Project, the Vice President presided over the commercial signing of the $1.1 billion Nigeria-Brazil Green Imperative Project at the Presidential Villa. This initiative seeks to modernise Nigeria’s agriculture sector by supporting smallholder farmers and integrating them into global value chains. A government-catalysed, private-sector-driven agricultural industrialisation programme in Nigeria, VP Shettima is championing the Green Imperative Programme as an important component of the government’s broader strategy to boost agricultural productivity, increase crop yields, and make Nigeria self-sufficient in food production.

    And to lead by example, Vice President Shettima launched the Kashim Shettima Foundation’s Agricultural Empowerment Programme in 2024. This personal initiative includes the distribution of essential farming inputs such as tractors, seeds, fertilizers, and herbicides to beneficiary farmers for the 2024 farming season; financial support of N100,000 per month to 50 beneficiaries for 4 months during the planting period, and the provision of startup funds up to N30 million for farmer cooperatives to establish commercial farms.

    FOOD SECURITY

    Throughout the history of humanity, agriculture has always played a pivotal role in social and economic development. Firstly, robust agriculture engagement ensures food security, which is the fundamental and best form of security because a nation that cannot feed its population is vulnerable, and in fact is sitting on a time bomb. When President Tinubu came to power in 2023, the first appeal he made was for Nigerians to return to the land, for therein lies true prosperity.

    Read Also: May 29: Ex-Minister greets Tinubu, urges Nigerians to key into Renewed Hope Agenda

    Acting on the President’s directive, Vice President Shettima inaugurated the Presidential Food Systems Coordination Unit (PFSCU), an initiative of the administration to tackle hunger and food insecurity in Nigeria. The PFSCU is tasked with harnessing resources and ideas from stakeholders, including state governors, to modernise farming practices, increase crop yields, and transform Nigeria into a self-sufficient food producer. If a person is food secure, it typically means that sufficient quality food is available, they have enough resources to buy food for a nutritious diet, and they have stable access to adequate food at all times.

    NCP AND ECONOMIC REFORMS

    In 2023, Vice President Shettima inaugurated the National Council on Privatisation (NCP) committee to drive the economic reforms of the Renewed Hope administration. The Council has remained a key institution in Nigeria’s journey toward a market-driven economy, balancing the challenges of reforms with the need for sustainable development. In late 2023, Vice President Kashim Shettima chaired a meeting of the National NCP focused on the recapitalisation and restructuring of the Bank of Agriculture (BOA). This initiative has helped greatly in revitalising the bank and making it more effective in supporting Nigeria’s agricultural sector. The Vice President has been actively involved in efforts to transform the BOA into a more robust financial institution capable of providing enhanced support to farmers and agribusinesses across Nigeria. Under Shettima’s supervision, there have been discussions about increasing the BOA’s capital base to strengthen its capacity to provide loans and other financial services to the agricultural sector. The Office of the Vice President has been working closely with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and other relevant stakeholders to streamline the operations of the BOA and make it more accessible to smallholder farmers. There have been plans to leverage technology to improve the BOA’s reach and efficiency, including the possible introduction of digital banking services tailored for farmers. This is as the Vice President has been advocating for partnerships between the BOA and international development finance institutions to increase the pool of funds available for agricultural lending.

    NUTRITION

    Under the administration, the Vice President, who is the chairman of the National Council on Nutrition (NCN), has emphasised the importance of reinforcement in agriculture to combat malnutrition. Accordingly, he approved a 5-year National Multi-Sectoral Plan of Action for Food and Nutrition. Senator Shettima went on to push for the Nutrition 774 Initiative at the National Economic Council, an initiative aimed at tackling malnutrition by providing life-saving nutritional support across all local government areas. It focuses on community-based impact, particularly for mothers and children. A significant landmark within the initiative is the establishment of a House Committee on Food and Nutrition, the first of its kind, at both federal and state legislatures. The functions of the House committee include maintaining political commitment, pushing for legislative support, as well as ensuring that nutrition remains a priority in national policies and budgets.

    HUMAN CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT (HCD)

    As part of its resolve to position the nation among top 80 countries on the global Human Capital Index (HCI) by building a healthier, better-educated, and empowered Nigeria, the Tinubu administration stepped up government’s Human Capital Development (HCD) initiative aimed at improving education, healthcare, and skills training across the country to boost economic growth and create a more productive workforce. Under the chairmanship of Vice President Shettima, NEC took the initiative to its second phase (HCD 2.0), which focuses on areas like gender equality, climate change, digital economy, financial inclusion, and food and nutrition. It also aims to address unemployment, the informal sector, and low labour force participation. About 24 million Nigerians are set to benefit from the federal government’s Human Capital Development initiative, which aims to improve education, healthcare, and skills training across the nation. During the HCD Steering Committee meeting, VP Shettima insisted on swift, data-driven implementation of education, health, and workforce programmes across states. To this end, he launched the HCD Dashboard to monitor progress on key indicators like youth unemployment and learning poverty.

    MSMEs

    The Expanded National MSME Clinics is another initiative launched by the Tinubu administration to support and empower micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across Nigeria, including in the agricultural sector. Vice President Kashim Shettima has played a central role in championing and overseeing the MSME Clinics programme, launching editions in states Benue, Ogun, Enugu, Jigawa, and Ekiti States, with federal government grants for business owners. The MSME Clinics aim to boost economic empowerment and support small-scale enterprises, including agricultural businesses, by facilitating access to finance, markets, skills, and regulatory compliance. The MSME Clinics have led to the launch of major ultramodern fashion hubs in these states. The fashion hubs are expected to create millions of jobs.

    ENERGY AND INFRASTRUCTURE

    In April 2025, Vice President Shettima inaugurated the Board of the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) to address national grid reliability. Also, VP Shettima, in meetings with the World Economic Forum President and other global stakeholders, championed the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline and Lake Chad recharge. These projects aim to address energy shortages in West Africa, strengthen Nigeria’s export footprint, and boost agricultural resilience in the Sahel.

    REVITALISATION OF THE NIGERIA-BRAZIL STRATEGIC DIALOGUE

    In March, VP Shettima coordinated preparations for the revival of Nigeria-Brazil bilateral ties, which had stalled for over a decade. Discussions are now set to enhance cooperation in agriculture, health, military technology, and tourism, anchored on the upcoming Brazil-Nigeria Strategic Dialogue Mechanism.

    RSPIC

    The Tinubu administration launched the Resettlement Scheme for Persons Impacted by Conflict (RSPIC), a national initiative aimed at addressing the humanitarian crisis caused by internal displacements across Nigeria. The project, which is in its pilot phase, focuses on 7 states disproportionately affected by farmer-herder conflicts. They are Sokoto, Kebbi, Benue, Katsina, Zamfara, Niger, and Kaduna. Last year, Vice President Shettima, representing President Tinubu, presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for the RSPIC project in Kaduna State. Earlier, VP Shettima had inaugurated a steering committee to coordinate the implementation of the RSPIC initiative, fulfilling President Tinubu’s promise to improve the lives of Nigerians affected by conflict.

    While the primary focus of the RSPIC is on providing relief and rehabilitation for conflict-affected communities, it is also linked to the administration’s efforts to address food insecurity in Nigeria. The areas targeted by the RSPIC have been significantly impacted by farmer-herder conflicts, which have disrupted agricultural production and food supply. By resettling and rehabilitating these conflict-affected communities, the RSPIC aims to restore their livelihoods and access to food, thereby contributing to the broader goal of improving food security in Nigeria.

    FINANCIAL INCLUSION

    Vice President Shettima has played an important role in advancing financial and economic inclusion as a foundation stone of the administration’s development agenda. In April 2024, he led the signing of the landmark Aso Accord for Economic and Financial Inclusion, uniting federal and state actors, financial institutions, and development partners around a shared commitment to integrate over 30 million unbanked Nigerians into the formal economy. He followed this with the launch of a national operating model aimed at transforming Nigeria into a $1 trillion economy by 2030 through improved access to credit, digital payments, and financial literacy. And to promote economic growth and financial inclusion, the Vice President, in February 2025, inaugurated the Presidential Committee on Economic and Financial Inclusion (PreCEFI). The financial inclusion efforts of the administration have been serving as a vehicle that helps Nigeria to bring life to dead capital.

    Indeed, while the first half of President Tinubu’s first term in office can best be described as a remarkable and impactful success story, the unalloyed belief in his economic policies, institutional reforms and developmental ideas, especially by his lieutenants led by VP Shettima, is as inspirational as it is legendary.

    As the administration steps into mid term of its first term in office, there is no doubt that President Tinubu foresight’s, vision, reforms, well thought-out policies and programmes will impact tremendously on the lives of Nigerians. His absolute trust in the capacity of the Vice President and all others in the cabinet to plan and execute the programmes and interventions of the Renewed Hope Agenda will motivate them to ramp up the business of governance for the overall benefit of the people.

  • NOA exchanges govt polices, gets feedbacks at grassroots

    NOA exchanges govt polices, gets feedbacks at grassroots

    WITH a mission for collaboration geared at instilling patriotism in young Nigerians, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has identified educational institutions as take-off points.

    The agency believes the schools stand as one of the veritable platforms for the cascading of government policies and programmes to the grassroots and to get feedbacks firsthand from the society.

    It’s directors in the states have been mandated to simultaneously launch the National Identity Project (NIP) in all tertiary institutions in their respective domains.

    The directors, as delegated by NOA Director-General, Lanre Issa-Onilu, are to promote the NIP by sensitising students on National Value Charter, discourage cultism and social ills.

    Parts of the mandate are to ensure that the students shun the get-rich-quick attitude for academic excellence, resilience, tolerance and respect for human rights and dignity.

    According to the Ekiti State NOA Director, Mrs. Kemi Akomolede, the DG directive is for them to give effect to the mandate approved for the agency from by the president – reawaken the conscience of Nigerians and get their buy-in into the project.

    She said: “The Federal Government at the beginning of the year through the NOA promised to undertake massive value re-orientation programme that will promote shared values and believes under the NIP.”

    In his New Year message, the President renewed his administration’s commitment making Nigeria a better place to live in.

    “Citizens’ moral rectitude and faith in our country are fundamental to the success of the Rnenewed Hope Agenda (RHA). In 2025, we will commit to the promotion of adherence to ethical principles, shared values and beliefs under the NIP”, the President had promised in his message to Nigerians.

    In his determination to play its party, the NOA rolled out carry out the seven-point programme targeted at entrenching and promoting patriotism, deploying familiar approaches.

    Read Also: NOA DG urges talent discovery, reaffirms Tinubu’s commitment to reducing out-of-school children

    They include:

    •Use of national symbols such as, anthem, flag and pledge to foster sense of belonging;

    •Promition of common language and culture

    •Sharing and Preservation of a collective history

    •Incorporation of National Identity into scholl curriculum

    •Celebration and promotion of diverse cultural expression

    •Transmitting shared values, beliefs  and expectation  to up-coming generations

    •Using the various media outfits promote national unity and love among the citizens

    According to Mrs. Akomolafe, the combination of all the elements would inspire patriotism. She noted that the proposed National Youth Summit would serve as platform for bonding amongst the youths across the country.

    During a visit to the Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan-Ekiti, the State NOA director intimated the Rector, Dr. Sunday Ajeigbe and management about the rudiments of government policies at the grassroots.

    She proposed the establishment of National Orientation clubs, organisation of seminars, workshops and campaign as well as the integration of critical topics into the education curriculum among others as part of ways of inculcating national values in students.

    Ajeigbe acknowledged the similarity in the activities of the agency and the citadel of learning, especially in the business of shaping the lives of the younger generations for future challenges.

    The Rector said: “The visit is not just a courtesy call but a crucial step in strengthening the synergy between the agency and the Institution in shaping the values, awareness and civic consciousness of the students and larger community.”

    Expressing the institution’s belief that education transcends technical knowledge, Ajeigbe said “it’s also about instilling values, building character and preparing the students to be responsible citizens and transformational leaders.”

    Ajeigbe noted that the NOA team’s visit aligned with the mission of producing graduates who are not only skilled but also ethically and socially responsible.

    He commended NOA for its relentless efforts in promoting national consciousness, civic responsibility and good governance and promised the readiness of the institutions to partner with the agency.

    During the interface with the students of the institution, Mrs. Akomolede discussed the nitty-gritty of the NOA mandate, which according to her, includes National Values Charter; security consciousness; reversing the get-rich-quick syndrome; HIV/AIDS awareness; human rights and tax compliance, among others.

  • Oloyede’s burden of truth and integrity

    Oloyede’s burden of truth and integrity

    • By Mahfouz A. Adedimeji

    The motto of Daily Trust newspaper is ‘Truth is a burden’. Apparently, the founding fathers of the newspaper appreciated that in a world where lie reigns and dresses like truth, it is onerous to bear truth. A striking metaphor of the tragedy of truth today is a 19th century legend, depicted by Jean-Léon Gérome’s 1896 painting, “The truth Coming out of the Well”. 

    A quick recap is that The Truth and The Lie met one fateful, beautiful morning beside a well. After exchanging pleasantries, The Lie suggested that they should take a bath together. The unsuspecting Truth felt that the water was nice and undressed with The Lie to bathe. Suddenly, The Lie jumped out of the water, put on the clothes of The Truth and ran away. The Truth ran out to pursue The Lie but the latter had disappeared into the world, which turned its gaze away in rage on seeing the naked Truth running around.  The poor Truth returned to the well to hide forever while The Lie moves around disguised as The Truth, satisfying the needs of the world because the world, and Nigeria is its microcosm, is not interested in seeing the naked Truth. The Yoruba sum it up in ‘Aiyekooto’, meaning ‘the world rejects the truth’, the name they give to the West African parrot.

    The fate of the truth in the legend is similar to that of integrity. A Latin word that derives from ‘integer’, the same integer everyone learnt in primary school as depicting a whole number as opposed to a fraction, meaning whole, intact and complete, integrity describes the quality of being untainted, upright, honest or having strict moral and ethical code. Though the qualities of truth and integrity cannot be said to be extinct, among the few Nigerians that epitomise them in the public space is the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Emeritus Is-haq Olanrewaju Oloyede, the acclaimed winner of the maiden edition of the prestigious Gani Fawehinmi Integrity Award in 2018.

    Ever since Oloyede started his current assignment in August 2016, some people with hideous agenda have sought every means to defame him or discredit his work. He has stood tall and fought entrenched personalities and principalities that had made JAMB a cesspool of corruption head-to-head for nine solid years. He introduced far-reaching innovations that sought to eliminate fraud and entrench quality. He turned JAMB to a beautiful bride and a topmost government agency reputed for efficiency and credibility. Apart from returning over 60 billion Naira to the coffers of the government, he also reduced the application fees for the examination from #5,000 to #3,500 nationally and from $20 to $2 internationally. He did many more including instituting awards to encourage institutions.

    Read Also: East-West road for completion in December, Eleme axis opens in 10 days, FG assures

    However, when immediate action was taken to review the results of the recent 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculations Examinations (UTME) after complaints and it was indeed found out that an error occurred, someone without a burden of truth and integrity on his shoulders would have approached the findings differently. He would obfuscate the matter, stonewall the critics and give reasons to extricate himself. Afterall, it wasn’t his personal fault. But with the burden of integrity he bears, Prof. Oloyede spoke the unusual truth, took vicarious responsibility and the keyboard urchins roared with contempt and rage.

    But one truth remains incontrovertible. Prof. Oloyede has changed the narrative of public service in Nigeria, upped the ante and demonstrated what no public servant has done in recent memory. He invited his critics for co-investigation, explained the matter, identified the problem, apologised to the nation and could not control his emotions having been told just before his addressing Nigerians that a candidate committed suicide. He provided an immediate solution by rescheduling the examinations, which have now been concluded.

    He had many options but he chose the path of honesty and accountability. In his 1915 poem, ‘The Road not Taken’, Robert Frost calls it the road ‘less travelled by. And that has made all the difference’. Only a person of Oloyede’s rare pedigree would have the courage to do what he did.

    Despite the immaterial antics of ethnic chauvinists, religious bigots and misinformed pundits that revel in character assassination at the drop of a hat, it is clear to the sincere and perceptive Nigerians that it would be beyond a former Chairman of the Committee of Vice Chancellors of Nigerian Universities (CVCNU) and ex-Executive Secretary and National Coordinator of the Nigeria Inter-religious Council (NIREC) to stoop so low to target a religious or ethnic group in a national examination. To achieve what purpose at his age and stage in life? Nevertheless, as truth does not matter in our post-truth era, the uninformed, misinformed and ill-informed bared their fangs and poured venom, the only product in their possession.

    There are also those who even call for his resignation, oblivious of the fact that doing so is an easy decision to make for a man like him, with zero emotional attachment to the vain embellishments of the world, if only he has his way. Long beyond his detractors were born or be of relevance, Oloyede had resigned from a ‘juicy’ national appointment. Not too long ago, in 2011 precisely, he also resigned from his coveted position as President of the Association of African Universities as a matter patriotic principle just to pave way for another Nigerian, the Kogi-born Prof. Emeritus Olugbemiro Jegede, to become Secretary General of the Association. He burns the candle at both ends in the service of the country because of his patriotism, not based ó. an iota of personal interest.

    One point is as clear as daylight ultimately. Oloyede’s sun is far beyond being stuck by his detractors’ sticky mud. Universities and other tertiary institutions, with their consortia in West Africa and Africa as a whole, individuals, organisations and bodies, including the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), have turned the table with their cornucopia of solidarity. They continue to appreciate Oloyede for his honesty, empathy, courage, nobility, probity and fair-mindedness in the face of glitch or an error of negligence by others. His hard-earned reputation and integrity are intact as he has handled the challenge to the admiration of many right-thinking Nigerians.

    But beyond Oloyede, my hope is that other conscientious leaders would not be discouraged from being truthful and vicariously responsible in future as a result of the vituperations being poured in some quarters on a national hero. My charge is that the youth should remain positive that Nigeria is still worth being served truthfully and with integrity. They should renew their hope in their country, just as E. B. White wrote long ago and as is evident in Oloyede: “As long as there is one upright man, as long as there is one compassionate woman, the contagion may spread and the scene is not desolate. Hope is the thing that is left to us in a bad time.”

    •Prof. Adedimeji is the pioneer Vice Chancellor of the African School of Economics (The Pan-African University of Excellence), Abuja.

  • See Abuja and marvel

    See Abuja and marvel

    • By Kehinde Olaosebikan

    ‘See Paris and die’ is a phrase used to describe the beauty of Paris, the capital city of France. Not that one would die after seeing Paris, it presages that feeling Paris is the ultimate fulfillment of life’s aspirations; signifying that one could die happy having sighted the city. Seeing the city gives a sense of completeness and finality to one’s life journey after witnessing the best of beauties, Paris.

    But, today, as capital cities across the world outpace France in beauty, Abuja, Nigeria’s 8,000 square kilometer capital is burgeoning towards attaining the status of one of the leading best cities, globally, and this is astounding. The Federal Capital Territory is steadily becoming an acme of beauty, desire and culture, making it a dream destination for all.

    The city has in the past 20 months witnessed massive quality development and progress. Sprawling, breath-taking roads from all the entries to the city, functional street lights, modern rail system, seamless waste management, efficient water supply, Abuja has become a splendid city that both local and foreign visitors marvel at.

     Just like in football and our national team, where Nigerians are lovingly bound without any primordial sentiment, Abuja, since its promulgation in 1976, has remained a project that enjoys total acceptance by all Nigerians. From West to East, North to South, every region of the country hailed the relocation of the capital to the centrally situated, Abuja. Consequently, all the successive governments have been developing the city, constructing both physical and social infrastructure all aimed at making Abuja the best capital city in Africa and one of the best, world over.

     Though, the pace of growth of the city got inhibited with the inertia of the minister in charge of the territory between 2015 and 2023 when there was virtually no development for the whole of eight years, the present Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has satisfactorily filled the gap returning the glory and beauty of the FCT. In less than 20 months, the incumbent minister has achieved what his last two or three predecessors could not realize in about 12 years.

     With clear direction and unwavering support of the President, Mr. Wike has made remarkable progress in the evolution of Nigeria’s capital in the critical areas of security, education, health, transportation, roads, rail mass transport scheme, electricity supply, waste management and general administration. The city has become more attractive and better managed under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and with the rate of progress and quality of construction, Abuja may become the best capital city in Africa and one of the best in the world before the end of this administration.

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     Living to his sobriquet of Mr. Project, Wike upon assumption as the FCT Minister utilized his experience as governor of the oil-rich state of River for eight years, put all the necessary machinery in place towards getting all the needed funds and the right policies for accelerated development of the capital city. He got the consent of the President to move FCT from Treasury Single Account (TSA) and approval of enhanced security personnel and facilities for the territory. With more funds and improved security, Nyeson Wike went to action and the results are the straggling roads from all the ingresses to the city centre; new schools, new hospitals, markets etc.  seen all over Abuja today.

     Delightfully dotted by super structures like the World Trade Centre, Afreximbank African Trade Centre, Churchgate Tower, Millenium Towers, NNPC Towers, Central Bank Complex, FIRS Towers, National Mosque, National Christian Centre, ECOWAS Secretariat, Federal Secretariat, Abuja meets the international standards in basic necessities of great city in terms of good transportation system, education, healthcare, housing, green spaces, culture, sustainability and economic diversity.

    Topnotch is the word for hospitality and entertainment in the city as visitors to Abuja have a wide range of 5-star hotels like the prestigious Transcorp Hilton Hotels, Fraser Suites, Abuja Continental Hotel, The Destination, NICON Luxury, Summerset, BON Grand Towers Hotel for the best of comfort experienceable anywhere in the world. There are also lower classes but equally scintillating homes away from for thousands that throng the FCT daily. Exquisite tourists’ centres, parks, restaurants, green spaces, lounges, clubs, museums are also adequately available for visitors and tourists in Abuja.

     Steadily meeting the international benchmarks of an ideal modern city, Abuja has become vibrant, inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable.   What is witnessed in the city now, shows clearly that a leader with great mission and vision is in charge.  Abuja is changing now almost on a daily basis. It is excellence in development.

     Olaosebikan, a former Abuja Bureau Chief of Vanguard Newspapers is the CEO of Midas Communications Ltd, a global Public Relations firm.