The Nation Newspaper

Category: Saturday Magazine

  • NDDC stakeholders and the imperatives of Borikiri-Okrika Bridge

    NDDC stakeholders and the imperatives of Borikiri-Okrika Bridge

    When the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) was established by the Obasanjo administration on June 5, 2000, it was aimed at improving enhancing economic development using the region’s resources to create economic prosperity, social stability and improve the social well-being of the people. It also aimed at protecting the region’s environment as well as addressing ecological issues and preserving the region’s natural resources, among others. However, 25 years after, the Commission has not been able to meet most of these laudable goals due to certain factors which a stakeholders’ forum in Port Harcourt, Rivers State capital, tries to address. Associate Editor ADEKUNLE YUSUF reports

    In keeping with the policy of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, which stresses the need to engage stakeholders to bolster development, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has continued to engage critical stakeholders to drive the development process in the region.

    In one such engagement, the Commission organised a Stakeholders’ Interactive Forum on the Borikiri-Okrika Bridge project in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital.

    The NDDC Executive Director of Finance and Administration, Alabo Boma Iyaye, appealed to stakeholders in the Niger Delta region to unite, shun politics and support the efforts of the Commission to develop Niger Delta communities.

    He stressed the need for them to work in harmony with development agencies for the well-being of the people.

    Iyaye said that the bridge project represented a significant initiative that would drive progress in Rivers State, noting that Borokiri and Okrika serve as crucial hubs in the oil and gas industry and play vital roles in the economic advancement of the Niger Delta region in particular and Nigeria in general.

    He emphasised that people’s needs should precede political considerations and that development thrives in a peaceful environment.

    Iyaye observed that the 3.65-kilometre Okrika-Borokiri Road with three bridges, which will connect Kolabi, Abotoru and Okpoka creeks to Port Harcourt, would provide many benefits to the people, as it would connect several communities to the Rivers State capital.

    He said that when completed, the road would reduce traffic congestion on the refinery axis of the East-West Road, even as it will provide an alternate route to Okrika.

    The road would also significantly impact the communities by connecting Okrika Island to Port Harcourt, potentially boosting local trade, reducing travel time and improving access to services for residents.

    “For us to succeed, we need everybody’s cooperation. We need the cooperation of the traditional institutions, the state governments and the youth,” he said.

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    Continuing, Iyaye said: “Although this project was awarded in 2012, it has faced delays for various reasons. Upon the inauguration of the current NDDC Board, we prioritised completing this significant project, viewing it as a legacy initiative alongside the Kaa-Ataba Bridge linking Khana and Andoni local government areas in Rivers State.”

    He told the stakeholders that the Kaa-Ataba Bridge project was progressing satisfactorily, noting that the contractors handling the project had assured that cars would be able to pass through it before the end of the year.

    The Executive Director observed that some NDDC key projects were delayed because the Commission did not have an approved budget for the past four years.

    “However, the President recognised the need for funding and approved the 2024 NDDC budget, which now includes financial provisions for this legacy project.

    “Before proceeding with the project, we felt it was necessary to hold this interactive session, which is essential for fostering cooperation and creating a supportive environment for the contractors to ensure timely completion,” he said.

    Iyaye called on the benefiting communities to cooperate with the contractors handling the projects.

    Iyaye said: “For us in the Commission, we believe this project must be completed. This project was started by other successive administrations of the NDDC in 2012. Unfortunately, the project was stalled for many years.

    “By the grace of God, upon the coming of President Tinubu, the project is now part and parcel of the 2024 NDDC budget. Therefore, now is the right time to start this project.

    “So, we felt that we cannot just restate this project without watering the ground. It will be unfair for the owners to suddenly see contractors on site without speaking to them. That is why we organised this interactive forum. With this, you will be aware that this project is coming back and be prepared to give the contractor the necessary cooperation to ensure that the project is completed in record time.”

    The Amayanabo of Kirike Kingdom, Okrika, King Tamuno-Omisiki Opuiyo thanked the NDDC for organising the stakeholders’ engagement and assured that the communities in his domain would cooperate with the Commission to ensure the project’s timely completion.

    He noted: “We should not allow our political differences to hinder development. We assure NDDC of our support and appeal to the Commission to engage a reliable and capable contractor to handle the projects.”

    In a similar manner, the Amanyanabo of Bolo Kingdom, King Micah Acheseinimie Frank, advised the people of the Niger Delta to desist from mixing politics with development, stating: “We will ensure that this project is executed to the letter.”

    The traditional ruler also urged the NDDC to expedite action on some stalled projects in his kingdom, adding that on completion, the projects would enhance economic and human capital development in the area.

    The representative of Okrika in the Rivers State House of Assembly, Linda Somiari thanked President Tinubu for renewing the Okrika people’s hope by supporting the NDDC in delivering on its mandate.

    The lawmaker observed that things were beginning to change in the way NDDC was tackling the development challenges in the Niger Delta region, noting that the Commission’s consultative approach to management was commendable.

    She said: “We commend the NDDC for initiating a fresh era in the region. We urge you to sustain this laudable effort.”

    Sampson Parker, a former Commissioner for Health in Rivers State, who spoke on behalf of other stakeholders, thanked President Tinubu and the NDDC for reviving the Okrika-Borikiri Bridge project.

    He said: “The bridge project represents a vision that will act as a catalyst for the socio-economic revitalisation of the communities. Let’s support President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope initiative, which the NDDC, under Samuel Ogbuku’s leadership, is actively working to implement.”

    The Niger Delta stakeholders have since resolved that the best option for facilitating regional development is for all concerned parties to work together as partners.

    It is not surprising; therefore, that one of the cardinal policies of President Tinubu’s administration is stakeholders’ engagement. This policy thrust has spurred the NDDC to step up its efforts in collaborating with various stakeholders, including the state governments, to end the era of project duplication and enhance the harmonious relationship among the development partners.

    To make things happen as quickly as expected, development agencies, such as the oil companies, the federal, state, and local governments, the Ministry of Regional Development and the NDDC must collaborate at different levels to drive the development process.

    The socio-economic transformation of the Niger Delta region is too complex to be left for only one or two agencies of development. Undoing the damages wrought by decades of neglect and injustice requires partnership and synergy. The NDDC Act recognises this fact and has defined the NDDC as a facilitator for the development process that involves a combination of all relevant regional stakeholders.

    Acknowledging this inclusive strategy, the NDDC organised a Niger Delta Stakeholders’ Summit in July 2024 to articulate new strategies for driving the development of the Niger Delta region.

     After the historic summit, the Commission had been meeting with various groups, including youth bodies, women organisations, the traditional institution and professional bodies.

    The NDDC long recognised the need for a coordinated response to the challenges of the oil-rich region, which informed the establishment of a clearing house called the Partners for Sustainable Development (PSD) Forum.

    This important organ brings together representatives of federal and state governments of oil-bearing states, youth and women leaders, traditional rulers, the organised private sector, civil society, the mass media and international development agencies such as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the World Bank. The PSD Forum has remained a platform for ensuring that the developmental activities across agencies and project providers in the Niger Delta are synchronised.

  • Fierce competition for Nigeria’s $9.54b e-commerce market

    Fierce competition for Nigeria’s $9.54b e-commerce market

    Nigeria’s e-commerce market is estimated at $9.54 billion this year, and is expected to hit $16.68 billion by 2030, according to market intelligence and advisory firm Mordor Intelligence. Also encouraged by projection that by 2026, 13 per cent of Nigeria’s total sales will be transacted online, as well as the country’s increasing Internet penetration and ubiquitous smartphone usage, an avalanche of e-commerce platforms or online marketplaces, both old and new, are jostling for a share of this huge market. They are dangling innovative, secure, convenient and efficient transactions to woo customers. Assistant Editor CHIKODI OKEREOCHA reports that business owners in diverse sectors are leveraging the rise of e-commerce platforms to drive growth and profitability.

    For businesses across sectors still struggling to recover from the formidable economic and policy headwinds that stymied their growth and profitability in 2024, Nigeria’s burgeoning e-commerce space offers a vista of opportunity to bounce back this year.

    This is on the strength of a number of heart-warming economic indicators, particularly in Nigeria’s flourishing digital ecosystem, where the increasing Internet access and smartphone usage have pushed immense possibilities to the hands of more Nigerians, allowing them connect to online platforms and engage in various e-commerce activities.

    For instance, a steady uptick in mobile subscriptions has seen GSM services alone accounting for 134.27 million subscribers in October 2024, according to data from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). The resurgence in mobile subscriptions also triggered a significant rise in Internet usage, with its subscriptions reaching 134.78 million in October 2024.

    This figure, which represents a 1.88 million growth from the 132.9 million subscribers recorded in September 2024, is also poised to grow steadily, as smartphone adoption is estimated to reach 140 million this year.

    The fact is that Nigeria’s growing internet access and smartphone usage spurred the adoption of digital payment solutions, making it easier for Nigerians to make online transactions. This, in turn, fueled the growth of e-commerce business, as people now have convenient and secure ways to purchase goods and services and pay online.

    As a result, online shopping has gained popularity, with motley e-commerce platforms lining up to fill that niche, encouraged by payments technology and solutions company Worldpay’s projection that by 2026, 13 per cent of Nigeria’s total sales will be transacted online, facilitated by electronic systems.

    As if this projection, including forecast that consumer spending in Nigeria, driven by population growth and a growing middle class, is expected to hit $1 trillion this year are not enough to spur a number of old and new e-commerce platforms or online marketplaces to launch a campaign for the soul of Nigeria’s vibrant e-commerce industry, hopes of grabbing a chunk of Nigeria e-commerce market which is estimated at $9.54 billion in 2025 appear to have pushed them into an overdrive, literally.

    Some of the notable e-commerce platforms now eyeing Nigeria’s $9.54 billion e-commerce market which, according to market intelligence and advisory firm Mordor Intelligence, is expected to reach $16.68 billion by 2030, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 11.82 per cent, are Jiji, Jumia, Konga, and Cars45, among others.

    They have also been joined by latest entrants such as GiriToday, Zandaux, Kilimall, Ekoartmarket.com, among others, to offer businesses robust platforms to leverage to achieve significant growth, overcome challenges, and stay competitive in the digital world.

    Essentially, these online marketplaces or e-commerce platforms now jostling for market dominance provide an invaluable platform for businesses to showcase their products and services. They not only offer a space for listing items, but also come equipped with various tools that help businesses optimise their listings, engage with customers, and track performance.

    These result in a more streamlined and effective sales process that drives growth and improves customer satisfaction.

    GiriToday joins the fray

    Barring any last minute changes, GiriToday, a new kid on Africa’s e-commerce block, will go live in February. This home-grown, revolutionary e-commerce platform designed to connect Nigeria and other African sellers with buyers around the globe in real time was developed by two Nigerian tech entrepreneurs, Wale Ayantoye and Ola John Ajiboye, with a commitment to shaping the future of global trade—where Africa is at the centre–sharing its heart with the world.

    Apparently aware that many e-commerce platforms charge significant amounts for listings, transactions, and promotions, which could pose a challenge for small businesses and individual customers, GiriToday, which was virtually unveiled towards the end of last year, stormed the market without intermediaries and listing fees.

    “We understand what people are looking for in Africa…Our goal is to give people the opportunity to list their products free of charge and connect with global buyers,” Founder/CEO, Ayantoye, said.

    Ayantoye, who was former Global Head of Product Compliance and Risk Management at Flutterwave, at a Webinar where the brand was unveiled, pointed out that GiriToday app eliminates barriers that have historically limited Nigeria and African entrepreneurs.

    He said this was why, unlike traditional e-commerce platforms, it allows sellers to list products for free. He said by eliminating intermediaries and listing fees, GiriToday ensures transparency in pricing, enabling artisans to focus on their craft while accessing a wider audience.

    “We are helping African entrepreneurs overcome the logistical and financial hurdles of going global. GiriToday is about empowering African artisans and entrepreneurs. With this platform, sellers from Lagos and Accra can directly connect with buyers in the U.S., Canada, or Europe, earning fairly and on time,” Ayantoye emphasised, at the Webinar attended by The Nation.

    He noted that with a focus on speed, efficiency and authenticity, “we are bridging the gap between emerging African markets and the global digital economy, promoting both trade and the responsible growth of cross-border commerce.”

    One of GiriToday’s compelling propositions, which it hopes to latch on to upstage some of the existing e-commerce platforms, accordingly to Ayantoye, is the fact that it leverages cutting-edge technology by integrating the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning to provide seamless, fast, secure and efficient trading experience for buyers and sellers.

    For sellers, the platform offers the opportunity to showcase their creativity, reach buyers around the globe, and expand their reach and grow their business by showcasing their products to a global audience. This translates into streamlined customer acquisition and a higher return on investment.

    Co-founder of GiriToday, Ajiboye, also emphasised that “this platform isn’t just a marketplace. It’s a culturally rich hub that brings Africa’s unique heritage to the world. From custom-tailored clothing to handcrafted goods, buyers can interact with artisans in an entirely new way, supported by features like body imaging and virtual reality.”

    While noting that the platform’s commitment to creating authentic experiences, he said irrespective of where one is, “GiriToday brings Africa to you, making it easy to discover and purchase authentic African products and experience the beauty of African culture.”

    Jiji, Cars45 move to consolidate market dominance

    Although, GiriToday appears poised to emerge the fastest-growing online marketplace connecting Africa to the world, the achievement of its ambition may not be a stroll in the park. This is because the incumbent e-commerce platforms are also determined to give it a run for its investment in technology and innovation.

    For instance, online marketplace Jiji Nigeria is leaving nothing to chance in its quest to remain Nigeria’s top choice for online transactions, encouraged by its focus on security and a user-friendly experience. The Regional Head of PR and Marketing, Jiji Africa, Majolie Obaje said Jiji has, over the years, leveraged its massive investments in technological solutions to make buying and selling seamless, without an intermediary.

    Majolie told The Nation that Jiji has successfully taken out the middleman challenge that other platforms are unable to deal with. “When you sell on the Jiji platform, you are interacting directly with the customer or the vendor. That makes us stand out as the first and only classifieds e-commerce platform operating in Nigeria,” she said, pointing out that the dislodgement of middlemen takes away all the hassles and difficulties within the value chain of buying and selling, even for entrepreneurs and small business owners.

    That’s not all. Jiji, according to Majolie, has also successfully reduced issues of scam to less than one per cent.

    “This is huge because when Jiji took over the online marketplace, it was riddled with scams. It was alarming. But over the years, we have been leveraging technological solutions. By investing heavily in this, we have been able to reduce scam rate on our platform to less than one per cent,” she said.

    The Jiji Africa Head of PR and Marketing added that the platform is not just stopping there, as it is constantly coming up with initiatives that help it educate its users on how to stay safe.

    “We have also launched initiatives that have impacted over 200, 000 small businesses, not just in Nigeria but every other African country where we are currently present.

    “These and more definitely have brought us to this position of an industry leader. They have also made us stand out in comparison with our competitors,” she told The Nation.

    With over 12 million monthly visitors, including its significant contribution to economic empowerment by promoting employment through initiatives such as the Youth Job Fair in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Majolie insisted that Jiji has positioned itself as a leader in the classified sector within Nigeria’s e-commerce business and expanding to over eight countries in Africa.

    Cars45, a technology-enabled automotive trading platform, is also not folding its arms in the face of the fierce competition in the market. The company’s Head, Technical Operations, Damilola Ojurongbe, told The Nation that the platform’s dedication to streamlining customers’ car buying and selling process in Nigeria has positioned it as a reliable and trusted partner in the auto industry.

    Focused on addressing key challenges faced by car buyers, sellers, and dealers alike, Cars45 offers a comprehensive range of services, including access to a wide selection of pre-inspected and verified vehicles, detailed inspection reports, and document verification processes to ensure authenticity and peace of mind for its customers.

    While these attributes earned it the ‘Online Car Selling and Buying Platform of the Year’ award at the Nigeria Technology Awards (NiTA) held last month, Ojurongbe said this has propelled the automotive trading platform to test new ideas and solutions to consolidate its dominant position in the market.

    Jumia, Konga, other platforms also

    With the competition in the e-commerce landscape getting fiercer and consumer expectations continue to evolve; pan-African e-commerce platform Jumia Nigeria has been unrelenting in its resolve to call the shot in the e-business landscape. Accordingly, Jumia, since its inception, has been at the forefront of innovation, continuously striving to enhance the shopping experience for millions of its customers across Nigeria and beyond.

    In an industry marked by rapid evolution and ever-changing consumer preferences, experts say that staying ahead requires more than just ingenuity – it demands collaboration. Jumia is fully aware of this hence its route to market leadership is through forging strategic partnerships with a diverse array of stakeholders ranging from local businesses to global brands that amplify strengths, drive sustainable growth, and address consumers’ needs.

    Already, Jumia’s partnerships with some of the leading manufacturers and brands such as Adidas, Infinix, Oraimo, Binatone, Haier Thermocool, Diageo and Nivea are said to have not only expanded its product offerings, but also enriched its ecosystem, offering customers unparalleled choice and convenience.

    These partner brands have official stores on Jumia where consumers can get easy access to their favourite products, and the brands offer special promotions to reward their consumers for their loyalty.

    Founded in 2012 by Jeremy Hodara and Sacha Poignonnec, Jumia has never hidden its commitment to leveraging the potential of e-commerce to address retail challenges in Africa. Its growth, over the years, has been driven by strategic partnerships, investments in technology, and a commitment to supporting local entrepreneurs and businesses seeking an online presence.

    The company also boasts robust solutions to overcome infrastructural challenges, such as limited internet connectivity and logistics issues, ensuring efficient delivery and customer satisfaction. Its user-friendly interface and strategic partnerships have also transformed it into a trusted and preferred online marketplace in Nigeria and beyond.

    Konga charges on

    E-commerce and retail store chain Konga is no less a force to reckon with in the increasing competition in the industry. The company has stepped up its efforts to provide the perfect blend of physical and online shopping options to Nigerian consumers, after it came under new ownership in 2018.

    “Our vision is to be the engine of commerce in Africa, and in five years we aim to be in 10 countries,” Konga Co-CEO Nnamdi Ekeh had declared.

    Since then, the e-commerce giant has managed to carve a niche for itself, utilising the dynamics of the online retail market industry to drive the value-chain delivery on purchases. It has also grown the operation of its delivery subsidiary Kxpress, a unit which manages 95 per cent of Konga orders and transports orders via trucks, vans and motorcycles.

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    Zandaux, a Business 2 Business (B2B) platform, which hit the market in February last year, has also expanded its reach by launching an e-commerce marketplace in Nigeria and Kenya. With its “one Africa, one market” mantra, Zandaux has been empowering businesses and merchants from diverse sectors to reach customers across the continent.

    There are also PayPorte, renowned for its fashion and lifestyle products, and has also gained popularity in recent years; Kilimall, which offers a diverse selection of products, including electronics, fashion, and home appliances; ekoartmarket.com, an e-commerce platform to globalize African art. Unveiled in June 2024 by Nigerian start-up GBLagos Art and Lifestyle, this platform seeks to democratise African art and uplift local artisans.

    How online marketplaces are transforming businesses

    For the Managing Director of Befitting Properties, a premium real estate firm in Lagos, Tope Samuel, the proliferation of online marketplaces in Nigeria has been nothing short of transformative.

    He said, for instance, that real estate transactions, which, traditionally, have been heavily dependent on local networks and word-of-mouth referrals, are now able to tap into a much broader audience, including international buyers and investors.

    Samuel revealed that Befitting Properties has been able to close some of its biggest transactions to-date on e-commerce platform Jiji, including a premium property worth close to a billion naira in Banana Island, Lagos.

    “Jiji’s wide reach, user-friendly interface, and the ability to directly connect with serious clients made it our preferred platform,” he told The Nation, noting that the success of Befitting Properties showcases the power of online marketplaces in helping sellers in real estate overcome traditional barriers.

    Samuel said being active on Jiji has enhanced his company’s reputation as a trusted and reliable real estate company, noting that with over 1,000 positive feedbacks from customers through the platform in five years, Jiji has been crucial to its success.

    “We can say on the average that over 90 per cent of our customers are satisfied and this has solidified our relationships with them, increased word of mouth awareness and referrals for our business,” Samuel affirmed.

    He added that the platform’s credibility, as well as the business’ consistent and professional interactions with clients has significantly boosted Befitting Properties’ business.

    Samuel explained that when operators in real estate business advertise their properties online, such businesses can showcase high-value listings to a diverse audience, which in turn, increases the likelihood of finding the right buyer.

    Similarly, De-Supreme Property, another real estate business, said it owes its growth to its strategic decision to embrace online marketplaces. Its CEO Abati Idowu Waheed said the business, which faced the challenge of limited marketing budgets when it starting out, gradually scaled its marketing efforts when it began exploring the affordable ad packages that Jiji offers.

    “When I started my business in 2020, I had nothing. Jiji helped me begin with small ads on their platform and over time, I was able to increase my investment as my business expanded,” Waheed told The Nation, noting that this flexible approach allowed the business to grow steadily, even during economic downturns.

    The automotive sector has also seen substantial growth through online marketplaces, with platforms like Jiji, Car Mart and Cars45 offering a unique opportunity to reach customers who’re actively searching for vehicles online.

    In a market where consumers’ behaviour is largely influenced by online research and comparisons, dealers now lean on some of these online marketplaces for selling and buying cars.

    The CEO of Autoproject, Raymond Iyoha, a dealer partner with Cars45, who has been sourcing verified cars through the platform for years, shared one of his biggest challenges before partnering with the platform. “Our biggest challenge was getting the right car to buy. Sometimes, we end up buying vehicles with security issues. But since partnering with Cars45, when it comes to verification, I’m rest assured,” he said.

    Iyoha, however, confirmed that Autoproject has since been able to source verified cars and increase their inventory without having to travel both far and near, all facilitated through the online platform.

    Levi Bereiweriso, a business owner who specialises in selling cars on Jiji, also said “Jiji has really helped me to stay connected, to stay competitive in the car-selling business. I’ve sold numerous cars to customers all over Nigeria and made profits. That’s because over 95 per cent of people who reach out from the platform are genuine and interested buyers.

    Levi has been able to reach a wider audience, engage with genuine buyers, and ultimately increased his sales by listing his vehicles online. One of the key advantages of selling cars through online marketplaces is the ability to provide detailed information and visuals that help buyers make informed decisions.

    Unlike traditional methods, where potential buyers might have to visit multiple dealerships to compare vehicles, online marketplaces allow them to do so from the comfort of their homes. Likewise, dealers now source verified vehicles from the comfort of their offices hassle-free. These translate to cutting down on costs, reducing documentation issues and security concerns.

    A promising market laced with challenges

    Much as Nigeria’s e-commerce market is undeniably huge and promising, helping businesses across sectors that embrace e-commerce platforms to expand their reach, streamline their operations, achieve scale and boost profitability, challenges abound, mostly around the increasing activities of cybercriminals.

    The industry is replete with cases of cybercrime which, according to operators and customers, undermine consumer trust, disrupt online transactions, and create concerns about personal and financial information security.

    However, the Federal Government, having recognised the critical role of e-commerce in driving economic growth and development, has never wavered in its commitment to bolstering its growth and ensuring an environment conducive to operators and businesses in the space to thrive.

    Accordingly, it has taken several initiatives and implemented policies and regulations focused, for instance, on improving digital infrastructure, enhancing cyber-security and promoting a more inclusive and accessible digital economy.

  • ‘Bridging gaps in paediatric care, child health’

    ‘Bridging gaps in paediatric care, child health’

    Paediatric healthcare in Nigeria is grappling with a range of complex and interrelated challenges, including inadequate healthcare infrastructure, a shortage of trained medical personnel, insufficient funding for child health programs, and a high burden of preventable diseases such as malnutrition, infectious diseases, and respiratory conditions. Ahead of the annual conference of the Paediatric Association of Nigeria (PAN), Prof. Ekanem Ekure, a distinguished paediatric cardiologist at the College of Medicine at the University of Lagos and the current president of PAN, provides an in-depth analysis of these critical issues and calls for urgent and stronger policies to address the multifaceted needs of children’s health and overall well-being in the country. Associate Editor ADEKUNLE YUSUF provides excerpts

    Her journey in paediatric practice

    I completed my postgraduate training, specialising in paediatrics 27 years ago. Most of my time since then has been spent in the Department of Paediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Lagos & Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Idi-Araba, Lagos, Nigeria where I work as a Professor and Consultant Paediatric cardiologist. I took over leadership of President of the Paediatric Association of Nigeria in January 2024 having previously served as a Secretary General more than a decade ago. Since assumption of office, I, together with the executive council members, have worked to structure and strengthen PAN to be a vibrant and influential organization that represents the voice of paediatricians and the children in Nigeria. Through education, we have enhanced the practice of paediatrics and child health with our monthly webinars. PAN has been impactful in conducting Helping Babies Breathe and Neonatal Resuscitation trainings for health care providers, at the grassroots and higher tiers of healthcare delivery to improve neonatal survival. We have also fostered collaboration and partnership with other stakeholders in the health sector, especially those working on child health issues. On advocacy, we have consistently spoken out on issues affecting the Nigerian child in press releases. The last national day was a perfect opportunity for us where we reviewed the state of the Nigerian child, partly to celebrate the Nigerian child, appreciate the government for grounds covered so far in improving the lot of the Nigerian child and to remind them of the grounds yet to be covered. Immunization is a high impact intervention for child survival and PAN in collaboration with the International Pediatric Association has trained more than 300 immunization champions across Nigeria who are advocating for improved uptake in immunization.

    State of paediatric healthcare infrastructure in Nigeria

    The state of pediatric healthcare infrastructure in Nigeria is challenging with poor access to care, inadequate and poor distribution of manpower and poor equipment. Yes, there are notable gaps in terms of facilities and technology. Paediatric hospitals are still inadequate to cater for the huge child population of nearly 110 million in Nigeria. Point-of-care-diagnostics are deficient for emergency management. There is limited access to advanced diagnostic tools like MRIs, CT scans, and neonatal incubators. Pediatric Intensive Care Units (PICUs) are rare, limiting the ability to manage critical cases effectively. Primary healthcare centers in rural areas often lack basic amenities, clean water, electricity, and essential medical equipment with poor road networks and transportation barriers further restricting access to care.

    Infectious diseases remain a significant cause of morbidity and mortality, but the burden of NCDs such as asthma, diabetes, sickle cell disease, and congenital heart defects is also rising. Nigeria can achieve this balance by first increasing funding for health. The 2025 health budget is 5.18% of the total budget, an increase of less than 1% (0.71%) compared to 2024 budget but far below the recommended 15% at the Abuja declaration. Primary Healthcare (PHC) Systems should be strengthened with integrated services that provide services for both infectious diseases and NCDs. Focus should be on prevention and health education of both diseases by scaling up vaccination campaigns, improving sanitation, and promoting hygiene practices while creating awareness on healthy nutrition, physical activity, and early screening for chronic conditions. The National Health Insurance Act coverage should be expanded to include both infectious diseases and chronic conditions like congenital heart disease for children. We can leverage on technology and innovations such as Telemedicine and mobile health to extend specialist care for NCDs to remote areas.

    Barriers to accessing quality paediatric are and solutions

    Families in Nigeria face several barriers in accessing quality pediatric care, ranging from systemic challenges to socio-economic constraints. A big one is financial constraints with high Out-of-Pocket Cost. Many patients in public hospitals are unable to pay their bills and there is a decline in hospital attendance not because the children are no longer sick, but because the health care cost is unaffordable. There are geographical barriers with rural urban disparity and shortage of healthcare facilities and personnel currently compounded by the JAPA Syndrome. Inconsistent Supply of Medications and Equipment with stockouts especially in public healthcare facilities, sub-standard drugs and poor attitude of some healthcare workers are other barriers.

    Strategies to reduce these barriers include financial interventions such as expanding the National Health Insurance Act (NHIA) to include comprehensive pediatric care. This means adding interventions for non-communicable diseases such as congenital heart disease to the NHIA. Care should be provided free or highly subsidized for children under five, especially for low-income families. Social Welfare Programs like introduction of cash transfer programs to offset healthcare-related costs can be initiated. Primary health care centres should be made functional and accessible. Training of more medical personnel including community health care workers and providing adequate incentives to encourage them to work in rural areas and resist the urge to emigrate from Nigeria. Other strategies are improving the distribution of essential drugs, vaccines, and medical equipment to healthcare facilities. Health care providers need to be trained in professionalism and showing empathy in the course of their work.

    Improving training for healthcare professionals in Nigeria and PAN annual conference

    First is by constantly updating Curricula for medical school and residency training to align with global best practices, covering emerging trends such as genetic medicine, digital health, and advances in neonatal care in addition to local healthcare challenges. Next is standardization of pediatric training across institutions. More fellowship programs in paediatric subspecialties are needed to meet diverse healthcare needs. There should be partnership with global institutions for exchange programs and fellowships that expose Nigerian pediatricians to advanced practices. Technology should be incorporated into training with improved access to learning resources like textbooks and medical journals. Residents should be sponsored to attend workshops and conferences.

    The 56th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the Paediatric Association of Nigeria (PAN) is scheduled to take place from January 22nd to 24th, 2025, at the International Conference Centre in Gombe. The conference will focus on the theme: “Intersectoral Collaboration in Advancing Child Health and Development.” Key sub-themes to be discussed include:- Overcoming the Harmful Mix of Insecurity and Poverty on Child Health: Addressing how socio-economic challenges and security issues impact child health and exploring strategies to mitigate these effects. Leveraging technology to promote child health: Exploring the role of technological innovations in enhancing pediatric healthcare delivery and outcomes. Effect of climate change on child health: Examining the implications of environmental changes on children’s health and discussing adaptive measures. These topics aim to address critical challenges and opportunities in pediatric healthcare within Nigeria, fostering discussions that promote collaborative efforts across various sectors to improve child health and development.

    By bringing together healthcare professionals, policymakers, and stakeholders from various sectors, the conference aims to foster comprehensive strategies that address the multifaceted challenges affecting children’s health in Nigeria. The main objectives of the 56th Annual Conference of the Paediatric Association of Nigeria (PAN) are knowledge exchange, promotion of intersectoral collaboration and providing a platform for stakeholders to deliberate on actionable strategies for implementing effective child health policies across Nigeria. Others are capacity building through pre-conference workshops on newborn resuscitation and encouraging research and innovation by awarding outstanding contributions. Healthcare professionals bring clinical experience, researchers contribute evidence-based insights, and policymakers provide the framework for implementing changes. Together, they can devise holistic solutions to child health challenges in Nigeria. We are privileged that Dr Naveen Thacker; President International Pediatric Association will be in attendance at the conference.

    Importance of bringing together healthcare professionals, researchers and policymakers

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    Supporting the development of pediatric healthcare in Nigeria requires a coordinated effort among the government, private sector, and international organisations. Here’s how each stakeholder can contribute effectively: Government Support: Policy and Legislation e.g. expand the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) to cover more pediatric services, including specialised care for chronic and congenital diseases; Increased Funding by allocating a higher percentage of the national budget to healthcare; infrastructure development; workforce capacity Building and investment in data collection systems and research.

    Private Sector can contribute through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Technological Innovations. International organisations’ can support through programme implementation, improved funding, offering of technical assistance, partnership with local organizations and associations such as PAN to advocate for stronger child health policies and increased public awareness of health issues and promoting global initiatives like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with a focus on child health.

    Immunisations are one of the most cost-effective public health interventions known to man. Most child deaths in under-five children are from vaccine preventable diseases. PAN in the last one year in collaboration with IPA has trained more than 300 immunisation champions made up of paediatricians, media personnel and nurses located in all states of Nigeria and FCT. Our immunisation champions have been empowered and motivated to do community engagement thus improving vaccine uptake through advocacy. They played a significant role in the 2nd HPV roll out where average vaccine coverage rose from 80% in the first 2023 roll out to 96% in 2024 with the lowest coverage of 78%. I believe that if we keep up the tempo of advocacy for immunization, our childhood vaccine coverage rates will improve.

    Future hopes for paediatric healthcare and PAN’s role

    Every child has a right to be alive. Children have the right to the best health care possible, clean water to drink, healthy food and a clean and safe environment to live in. One, every child in Nigeria, regardless of location or socio-economic status, will have access to high-quality healthcare, including preventive services, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation. Two, Nigeria will strengthen paediatric healthcare infrastructure to enable effective diagnosis, treatment, and management of the rising burden of NCDs in children, such as asthma, diabetes, obesity, and congenital disorders. Three, there will be integration of digital health solutions such as telemedicine, electronic health records, and AI-based diagnostic tools to enhance pediatric care delivery and reduce inequalities in access. Four, Nigeria will achieve a significant reduction in preventable child deaths, especially from diseases such as malaria, pneumonia, and malnutrition, while improving outcomes for children with chronic conditions and congenital defects.

  • VJ Adams: Talent is blessing and curse

    VJ Adams: Talent is blessing and curse

    At 36-years-old, Adams Ibrahim Adebola aka VJ Adams has become a household name on the Nigerian entertainment scene. With inputs in broadcasting, music, movies, and fashion, VJ Adams is not slowing down in his aspirations to be a role model to youths across Nigeria and Africa. He sits down with iGEN NEWS team lead, GBENGA BADA, to discuss varied issues in this interview.

    In 2024 you created partnerships with shows like ‘KnowYourmusic’ on MTV base and ‘OffTheTop’ on BET. Can you elaborate on those shows and the ideas? I was blessed to secure a partnership deal with paramount where I can executive produce the shows I create and they give me distribution. It is a great feeling to finally own my intellectual properties on TV.

    What was the most important lesson for you in 2024?

    What 2024 taught me is that one’s dreams are valid. Make sure you place a lot of value on your time.

    What do you think every Nigerian youth needs to get by in the current realities of life?

    To get by I would say the youth needs to learn, practice and earn. Every youth needs to become great at anything they choose to do and also don’t take for granted collaborations.

    There are many vices in the world as they say, how have you been able to keep your head up and high?

    Regarding vices, my father always said, ‘remember the son of whom you are,’ and that is enough to keep me in check.

    How would you describe your ability as a multi talented personality?

    A blessing and a curse if you ask me. In 2025, the DJ and actor part of me are top priorities. I’ve been blessed with a lot of talent and all I’m really trying to do is show anyone coming after me that it is possible to fulfill your potential by living multiple dreams and winning in life legitimately.

    Last year, Bimbo Ademoye gave you credit for designing the roll out campaign for all her six movies on YouTube, how was it working on all those projects?

    I can’t take all the credit . I have to use this opportunity to thank the actors as well for agreeing to my crazy ideas to promote the movies. I start thinking of the roll out plans before we start filming. I go on set on some days just to feel the energy and sometimes flesh out the promotional ideas even further and I’m thankful to God the people love the PR campaigns. When it translates to the over 40 million views and counting on the movies, I am overjoyed.

    Read Also: Mohbad’s father insists on DNA test to confirm paternity of late singer’s son

    In 2015, you had your first shot at fashion with Embruto by VJ Adams but 2024 berthed VIF by VJ Adams. How far are you willing to go on this fashion journey?

    You see, fashion is one of the things I’ve created that will outlive me. Even when I’m gone, I can give all the equity to my family so it’s without a doubt one of the most important things I’ve created so far.

    February 8, 2025 will mark 10 years since the release of your smash Fuji hit ‘Gbemisoke’ featuring Pasuma and Reminisce but you seem to have put music at the back burner since your album in 2018. Any plans for music  in 2025?

    To be honest, I’ve gotten a number of messages asking why I stopped making music. I stopped enjoying creating music when it solely became a numbers game. Don’t get me wrong numbers is very important in data. Spread and numbers help analyse the market. However, when it becomes the only factor in deciding what a good song is, that’s no longer art. That’s commerce if you ask me. I’ll be back in the studio as we are making more movies this year so I’ll create the sound tracks like I did on some of the movies in the past.

    From an investment standpoint, what are some of the other areas you’re willing to invest in?

    A few short let apartments would be great, a games arcade too. I kind of miss owning a game centre. I’ve invested a lot in e-sports/gaming over the years, filling up 4000 capacity venues multiple times and giving gamers something exciting to look forward to, so, my own game arcade would be nice.

    Being a youth, how has VJ Adams been impactful to youths around him?

    I have been able to show to a large audience it is possible to win legitimately, that’s the most important thing for me. Anything I do personally for people I’m not willing to discuss, also VJ apprentice search I do to help mentor anyone willing to pursue a career in pop culture broadcasting, my gaming franchise CVGC looks out for youths interested in ESports and help them earn amongst many other things.

    Does being a successful youth put pressure on you as a person and your love relationship?

    I have no pressure whatsoever. I have been blessed to achieve a lot of remarkable things while failing at some and taking the learnings in the process. What is mine will never pass me by and what isn’t will never get to me even if it’s as close as my upper and lower lip and that keeps me at peace.

    What are your predictions for 2025?

    I think 2025 is a collaboration year. If you’ve built a sustainable career where you have nothing more to prove, collaboration is important to scale your ideas and reach a wider audience.

  • B.SC – BEYOND SCHOOL CERTIFICATE: tips for young graduates seeking jobs

    B.SC – BEYOND SCHOOL CERTIFICATE: tips for young graduates seeking jobs

    Intentionality is a trait that every young job seeker should possess. Job hunting is daunting! It does not matter if you are a fresh graduate or a mid-level executive looking to switch career paths.

    The question now is: does a school certificate guarantee one being employed? Many people do not know that there are lots of people without school certificates in offices today; the argument is not that school certificates are not important; it is just a matter of directing you to look beyond your school certificate.

    You can study a particular course and become successful doing something different, don’t limit yourself to a field all in the name of holding a certificate. Many struggle with getting, keeping jobs and generally building a career not because they aren’t skilled but because they lack requisite insight.

    Today, the future of careers in Nigeria is marked by exciting possibilities. As the country embraces technology and innovation, new industries and job roles have continued to emerge.

    Annually, there are many young graduates on the cusp of a major transition as they move from university phase to the labour market world. At this stage, they would be required to make future-shaping decisions, one of which is securing a job.

    Read Also: Many industry stars needs healing, says ID Cabasa

    In Nigeria, understanding careers through solid research is key. Often, young Nigerians choose careers without full information. They might follow what friends do, or pick jobs they think are impressive. This lack of understanding can cause them to choose careers that aren’t the best fit. Using platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn to your advantage cannot be overemphasized.

    The Nigerian job market is a dynamic ecosystem, constantly changing in response to global, regional, and local factors. Amidst these changes, staying informed about the latest trends is important.

    Education remains a cornerstone of career success in Nigeria. Earning degrees and certifications aligns with the country’s cultural emphasis on academic achievements. However, it’s essential to bridge the gap between education and employability by acquiring practical skills and experiences. Consider internships, workshops, and online courses to complement your qualifications.

    While a strong educational foundation is vital, employers are increasingly looking for candidates with a blend of academic excellence and practical skills. To stand out in the competitive job market, consider pursuing certifications or short courses relevant to your desired career. These additional qualifications can enhance your appeal to potential employers.

    In conclusion, navigating the intricacies of career planning and goal setting in Nigeria demands a multi-faceted approach. Understanding the job market, setting clear goals, leveraging resources, and maintaining work-life harmony are all vital components of a successful career journey.

  • Gaming, betting emerge youths’ new addiction

    Gaming, betting emerge youths’ new addiction

    Gaming and Betting industry remains one of the most thriving industries aside from the entertainment industry. The betting and gaming industry in Nigeria is in no small feat raking in millions of Naira for operators and owners.

    Interestingly, the highest patronage comes from young Nigerians, who seem to have lost hope in the government and future. Unbelievably, there are gainfully employed young Nigerians, who are also regulars at gaming and betting stands.

    Betting – most especially – defies social and, sometimes, economic status of players in the industry, most especially the bettors.

    On the other hand, gaming seems to be a choice of the children of the elites and few middle class, who have been exposed to gaming culture. Gaming, the action or practice of playing video games, is fast becoming an addiction for young Nigerians.

    Though professionals will readily say it is a structured industry with so many economical advantages, it should be noted that like betting, Nigeria’s ongoing socio-economic challenges, has thrown gaming in the faces of many youths, who  are now turning to alternative forms of employment that allow them to harness their passion to earn a living.

    According to a 2024 report, some young Nigerians are making significant strides, transitioning from playing video games at home to showcasing their skills to a global audience of millions and increasing number of people, who are becoming familiar with and embracing this facet of the video game industry, often turning to it for entertainment.

    For many Nigerian youths chasing quick wealth, sports betting has become the ultimate attraction.

    Daily, young men and women are seen investing significant time and resources in betting shops or staking bets online, hoping to hit the jackpot.

    The advent of online betting platforms has further exacerbated the addiction, making sports betting easily accessible. With over ten popular betting platforms leveraging social media influencers to run ads, the allure is almost inescapable.

    Read Also: Mohbad’s father insists on DNA test to confirm paternity of late singer’s son

    For some, betting represents a glimmer of hope in difficult economic times. Others view it as a viable business opportunity due to the commissions they earn from facilitating tickets on behalf of betting platforms.

    A story of addiction

    Bayo Adeshola, a self-confessed betting addict, embodies the belief many share about striking gold through betting. Despite repeated losses, he remains convinced that his breakthrough is imminent.

    “I keep losing money, but I’m confident I’ll hit my first major millions soon,” Bayo shared during a conversation with friends. “It’s always one or two games that cut my ticket. If not, I’d have made about four million in one day.”

    The cost of addiction

    Another bettor, who chose to remain anonymous, recounted the personal and financial toll of his addiction.

    “My former girlfriend despised my betting habits, but I kept making excuses, promising to stop once I hit big money. I set a target of fifty million naira, but the win never came,” he confessed.

    The strain on his relationship reached a breaking point when he misused funds meant to set up a shop for his partner.

    “She cried when she discovered I had spent the money on betting. She ended the relationship, saying she couldn’t trust me with her future,” he added, visibly regretful.

    Betting as a business

    Victor, a sports betting agent, offers a different perspective. For him, the business is less about the thrill of betting and more about the profits he earns from platform commissions.

    “What matters most to me is my cut from the platform when people come to play. Patronage has reduced because people can now register and play online, but I still earn enough,” he explained.

    While Victor admits to occasionally betting, he insists he knows when to stop.

    The most addictive games

    According to Victor, certain games are particularly notorious for draining bettors’ wallets.

    “I think people lose money the most on dog races. The games are so fast that many don’t even realize how much they’ve lost,” he revealed.

    Gaming providing more advantage

    For gaming, it has become a trend that reflects a cultural shift towards a new era of community-driven media consumption.

    Young Nigerians are not far behind the global trends of gaming, which is put at a growing $282 billion. Nigerian youths are slowly building communities broadcasting their passion to an audience fascinated by the intricacies of gameplay. Their dexterity playing popular games has helped amass them crowds with similar taste.

    Indulgently, some social media platforms have become central hubs for gamers to broadcast their gameplay, interact with audiences, and build communities.

    According to a study, the social media platforms attract approximately 1.2 billion active users across the video game streaming landscape cumulatively. Twitch boasts over 140 million monthly active users, with 30 million users tuning in daily. YouTube Gaming reported a total of 1.18 billion hours of content watched in the third quarter of 2022, while Facebook Gaming claims to host over 700 million individuals who either play games, watch gaming videos, or participate in gaming communities.

    Just like betting, Nigeria’s ongoing socio-economic challenges have seen many youths turning to alternative forms of employment that allow them to harness their passion to earn a living including gaming.

  • How six Nigerian scientists, engineers bagged U.S. presidential honours

    How six Nigerian scientists, engineers bagged U.S. presidential honours

    Six Nigerian-born scientists and engineers were on Tuesday recognised in the United States (U.S.) for their world-class researches in the fields of science and engineering. They were honoured by the U.S. President Joe Biden as recipients of the prestigious Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE). The six compatriots were among the 400 recipients, whose groundbreaking works drew global recognition, Assistant Editor BOLA OLAJUWON reports

    THE Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE), which was established in 1996 by former United States (U.S.) President Bill Clinton, is the highest honour awarded by the American Government to scientists and engineers, who have made exceptional contributions to their chosen fields. This year, six Nigerian scientists and engineers based in the U.S. were named as part of the 400 recipients of the awards for the honour by the White House.

    They include Azeez Butali, who is the Gilbert Lilly Endowed Professor of Diagnostic Sciences at the College of Dentistry, University of Iowa, and Ijeoma Opara, Associate Professor of Public Health (Social and Behavioral Sciences) at Yale School of Public Health, Yale University. Also honoured are Oluwatomi Akindele, a Postdoctoral Researcher at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, and Eno Ebong, Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, and Biology at Northeastern University.  Others are Oluwasanmi Koyejo, Assistant Professor of Computer Science at Stanford University, and Abidemi Ajiboye, Executive Vice-Chair of the Case School of Engineering’s Department of Biomedical Engineering at Case Western Reserve University.

    This year, the recipients of the awards are affiliated with or funded by 14 participating U.S. government agencies.

    Award history

     In February 1996, the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) was inaugurated by President Clinton to create an award programme that would honour and support the achievements of young professionals at the outset of their independent research careers in the fields of science and technology. The stated aim of the award is to help maintain the leadership position of the United States in science.

    Originally, 60 recipients received the PECASE award per year. But, in 2008, the number was increased to 100. The 2002 PECASE awards were not announced until May 2004 due to bureaucratic delays within the Bush administration. The 2013 PECASE awards were announced in February 2016 after a two-year delay.

    The Trump administration announced the 2015, 2016, and 2017 awardees in 2019 with the awards presented by the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.

     The award process

     The White House, following recommendations from participating agencies, confers the awards yearly. To be eligible for the presidential award, an individual must be a U.S. citizen, national, or permanent resident. Some of the winning scientists and engineers receive up to a five-year research grant.

     Tinubu congratulates winners

     President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the Nigerian-born scientists and engineers.  In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu commended the six Nigerian award recipients for their remarkable achievements in science, technology and engineering.

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    He emphasised that their recognition reflects the vast potential of Nigerians to excel on a global scale, serving as an inspiration to millions.

    “These trailblazers represent the extraordinary talent and dedication that Nigerians bring to every field of human endeavour. Their accomplishments inspire renewed confidence in our country’s capacity to compete and lead in the global arena,” President Tinubu said.

    The President expressed hope that the recipients of the awards’ multi-disciplinary expertise would contribute to advancing Nigeria’s development goals under the Renewed Hope Agenda. He also underscored the importance of fostering collaboration among Nigerian experts in the Diaspora and institutions back home.

    The profiles of the awards recipients 

    Prof. Azeez Butali

    Butali was named the Gilbert E. Lilly Professor of Diagnostic Sciences at the University of Iowa, with his investiture ceremony held on September 21, 2023. Butali is a global leader in cleft lip and palate research and the world’s foremost expert in the genetics of these conditions in African populations.

    As part of his research mission, he has also spearheaded the formation of a diverse, international network of researchers in Africa and the U.S. to develop, refine and apply their findings for the benefit of African populations and their genetic descendants.

    Cleft lip and palate are common birth defects that affect millions of people around the world. They can cause a range of problems, including difficulty eating, speaking, and hearing. There is no cure for cleft lip and palate, but the conditions can be treated with surgery and other therapies.

    Butali’s research is focused on understanding the genetic factors that contribute to cleft lip and palate by studying the genomes of people with these conditions. In doing so, he has helped identify genes, specifically for African populations, that cause clefting. Cleft lip and palate account for a significant proportion of neonatal birth defects in Africa. But prior to Butali’s groundbreaking work, there was very little data on the genetic causes of the condition for this population.

    Dr. Ijeoma Opara

    Dr. Opara is an Associate Professor of Public Health (Social and Behavioural Sciences), Director, The SASH Lab, Yale School of Public Health; Co-Director of Yale AIDS Prevention Training Programme (T32), Yale School of Public Health; and Associate Director, Justice, Community Capacity, Equity (JuCCE) Core, Centre for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale University.

    Dr. Opara is an Associate Professor of Public Health in the Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences at the School of Public Health. She is also the founder and director of the Substance Abuse and Sexual Health Lab (www.oparalab.org).

    Her research interests focus on HIV/AIDS, STI, and substance use prevention for urban youth, racial and gender specific prevention interventions for black girls, and community-based participatory research with urban youth.

  • Why Tinubu must stand firm on tax reform bills

    Why Tinubu must stand firm on tax reform bills

    Emmanuel Umohinyang, a seasoned social commentator, human rights activist and lawyer, played a pivotal role in the success of the All Progressives Congress (APC) during the 2023 presidential elections. As the Convener of the now-defunct Re-elect Buhari Movement (RBM), he was at the forefront of mobilising support for President Bola Tinubu’s victory at the polls. In this interview, Umohinyang reflects on the performance of the Tinubu administration, concluding that the opposition to tax reform bills stems largely from a lack of critical thinking and mental laziness among those criticising the proposals before the National Assembly. The human rights activist also shares his thoughts on various contemporary national issues. Associate Editor ADEKUNLE YUSUF brings excerpts:

    I can say the government has done fairly well. Let me also say it has been a bumpy road. The government started with polices that successive administrations have been running away from. If you knew Tinubu as governor of Lagos State, he took some of the toughest decisions ever taken by his predecessors. In fact, he made nonsense of the Federal Government led by then President Olusegun Obasanjo. One of these was the ocean surge at the dreaded Bar Beach which the Federal Government was using to milk the treasury of the country back then. They used to sand fill the place every three weeks and shortly after, the ocean comes to clear everything. It was Bola Tinubu’s initiative to involve construction giants to deal with the issue by creating wave breakers.

    Today, you can attest to what Ahmadu Bello Way has become, a place liveable by Nigerians and foreigners, unlike in the past. Yes, the Tinubu administration started with some very stringent policies that have not made the administration popular in the eyes of Nigerians. One of these is the removal of petrol subsidy which he announced on the first day of his inauguration and the forex equalisation where the official and black markets were merged. Naturally, those two policies will affect the purse of the common man. And the president had said if he had any other option, he would have taken such option. I also remember the issue of fuel subsidy removal had always been unpopular. In 2012, I was one of those who occupied Ojota against the (Goodluck) Jonathan administration. People have always mistaken that protest against the issue of subsidy. We never protested against removal of fuel subsidy; we protested against the corruption embedded in the subsidy regime, wherein many of those importers were doing round tripping in connivance with corrupt Customs officials at the ports.

    Unlike in the past, governors are now going home with billions of naira as monthly allocation. If we had a well-structured system at the state and local government levels, the humongous resources available to them today would have impacted the people, but the Federal Government then had also been extravagant buying aircraft, yacht and exotic vehicles. I think the misconception has always been what people want to hear. I am not aware that there is any budget of the Federal Government that the issue of yacht was ever referred to and people must come to understand that what was presented was a yatch that was propagated by the Naval authorities and people claimed the president wanted a yacht for his comfort. That is not true. It was part of the equipment the Navy needed to function. People have also made reference to the presidential jet. I think the president was not really interested in any presidential jet. It is because of the state of the available aircraft. The aircraft are what you will not even want your enemy to fly in. It is a case of having many aircraft with none in a flying state. What he did was to sell some of the aircraft to buy a replacement. What was even procured was not a brand new aircraft. It was not even his desire to buy another aircraft. No citizen in the world wants to hear that his president died in an aircraft. I think these are security issues, and you must safeguard the sovereignty of your country. The president represents that sovereignty.

    His views on some reform policies that have brought economic hardships

    Honestly, I am one of those who have seen pain in the lives of Nigerians. So many Nigerians are struggling to feed on a daily basis. This is reality. I have visited the markets myself and I have also shared what the government should do in the New Year. I think Mr. President is working on that. We also cannot do without the partnership of the state governments and the local governments. Now that the local governments are operating with full autonomy, one is expecting them to key into the drive of the Federal Government in reducing anguish, pain and poverty in the lives of our people. The issue of hardship is real, the issue of poverty is real, the issue of suffering of Nigerians is real. The government is doing everything to take them out of pain. Insecurity is expensive because it requires a lot of money to contain. What is most important is the judicious use of available resources because there is no substitute for human life and the president has a constitutional duty to maintain lives and property. So, anything the government of Bola Ahmed Tinubu will do to protect the lives of Nigerians, he will do, no matter the cost; no matter what it will take.

    Insecurity and the capacity of government to win the war

    How we address the issue still goes down to the issue of agriculture. The government must be deliberate. The federal and state governments must be intentional about it and sufficient funds must be put in place to drive those mechanised processes. If not, it will be a case of removing fuel subsidy and leaving a vast majority of Nigerians in a basket of poverty. This is what the government must do, and do it deliberately and intentionally, to take the people out of poverty and return them to winning ways.

    Read Also: NCSP to bolster China-Nigeria economic co-operation

    A recent report indicated that the payment of ransom to kidnappers and bandits hit the trillion of naira mark as a sign that a lot still has to be done in the area of security in the country. Insecurity is a universal concept. There is insecurity in Benin, Niger, Ghana, Togo and Cameroun. Nigeria is surrounded by countries with very porous borders. However, we are working with our partners in these countries to see to it that these issues are addressed. You can agree that the issue of Boko Haram has been brought to minimal and controllable level. Banditry has also been tackled. I have always said that insecurity is not something you address over the shelf. The cost of one bomb is over $200,000 and so if government drops four of these bombs, which is close to the budget of a state.

    Opposition to the Tax Reform Bills

    I think the resentment has to do with knowledge gap. There is a misconception from some of our brothers from the North. It is not the North as a region because those resisting the bills are minute in number, powerful though. The tax reform is targeted at improving the life of the common man, whether in the South or the North. A lazy governor will definitely resist such. Why? It is because the tax reform is premised on hard work of individual states. If you are bringing so much to the table, that reform favours you, but for governors who want to go to Abuja for allocation and go back home and relax without doing anything. Such governors will not be happy. When you look at the context of those tax reform bills, you will see that they speak positively to the average man on the streets. It has taken the yoke of tax from him and placed the benefits on hardworking sub-regional governments. The tax is more about where the product is consumed, not about where the product is produced. It will trigger states to work more on consumption level in their states.

    The poor are being exempted from paying tax. Where is the problem coming from? The majority of poverty index come from the North. Why are they saying the tax reform bills are anti-North when the poor will not be taxed? And the rich are the ones to pay tax. It is a case of taking from the rich to service the poor. But the rich are trying to revolt against the poor by driving the wrong narrative that the tax reform bills are anti-North. And they are trying to do this because they know that most of their followers will not have the luxury of time to look at the bills. But I am also happy that some of leaders from the North are now trying to drive the right narrative.

    Why government can’t allow illegal modular refineries

    Per adventure you have not seen what they call an illegal modular refinery is all about; it is nothing near a refinery. It is just somebody boiling oil using firewood and I am sure you can’t put such a thing in your car. I know you will not want to do that. When people are saying encourage them or legalise them (illegal modular refineries) to address the high cost of petrol, it is like saying legalise illegality. And as soon as you do that, you have opened the flood gate for theft of crude. It will be ridiculous of government to do that. People are saying why is the government damaging them (illegal refineries)? Before you know it, the corruption you are trying to solve will overshadow it.

    I am not one of those people who want to smooth-talk a government that is not performing; I am not in that category. The late Chief Gani Fawehinmi taught us to stand for what is right, even if it means standing alone. Even when we are supporting a government, when that government is not doing well, we will say it. And we will say it openly and confront the government with it; we don’t need to hide behind something to say it; we must say it openly. Are we happy with what is happening? No, we are not. But we are seeing that there is a renewed hope, which is achievable if we can be patient with this government.

    I fell in love with the (Muhammadu) Buhari administration not because he was going to do everything perfectly. By the way, perfection belongs to only God. What I have told the President is that, and he has accepted, is that the assets and liabilities of the Buhari administration are part of his own administration. All he needs to do is to ensure that what were those pitfalls the Buhari administration made that he can avoid. I think President Tinubu should sustain emphasis on roads construction and rehabilitation and rails because we need to open up more states. That is why I am happy with the Lagos-Calabar that he is doing. The Sokoto, Badagry, Jebba roads and many more the administration is doing.  He must also avoid the mistake of Buhari, which is giving people assignment and going to sleep. That is why we have the Emefieles of this world who ran riot with public fund.

    What will make him to withdraw his support for President Tinubu

    The very minute the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration deviates from the people-oriented programmes and policies it has started, I will withdraw my support. As long as his administration continues to pursue policies that can help to build a prosperous future for Nigeria and Nigerians, I will continue to support him and I have no regrets about it.

  • Niger leverages digital innovation in social intervention

    Niger leverages digital innovation in social intervention

    When the Jonathan administration introduced the Bank Verification Number (BVN)  on February 14, 2014, it was said to be a game changer in preventing financial fraud. Little did people, especially the rural dwellers, realise that lack of it could prevent people from being beneficiaries of government’s social interventions. JUSTINA ASISHANA reports

    Despite the Niger State Government’s commitment to lift citizens of the state in terms of providing social intervention, a 50-year-old Munirat Hamisu, a petty trader in Tegina in Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State feels unhappy. Hamisu is not happy that she has not benefited from an ongoing social intervention programme launched by the state government.

    The Niger State Community Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) Result Area 3 Platform programme launched in 2023 is under the state’s Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) Agency.

    Its main purpose is to help micro; small and medium businesses grow and attain sustainability.

    Managers of the programme, a World Bank-supported initiative, are now using digital platforms to distribute financial grants to the over 20,000 direct beneficiaries, with nearly ₦3 billion disbursed so far.

    But for Hamisu to benefit, she needed to have a Bank Verification Number (BVN). “It is not as if I do not want to benefit from the programme as I know some people who have benefitted, and I know what N50, 000 would do for my business, I currently do not have a BVN because I do not have a bank account. I am seriously not inclined to do all these banking things as we do not have banks in this area unless you go to Kontagora or Minna. I prefer keeping my money with me,” she said.

    Lawal Mukar, who charges phones and sells recharge cards in Mariga Local Government Area, is one of the beneficiaries of the programme. But, he recounted how challenging it was for him to open an account in order to benefit from the programme.

    “The N50, 000 went a long way to help me. Imagine that I miss the opportunity just because I do not have a BVN and a bank account. I was able to buy another board with switches for my phone-charging business and buy recharge cards for sale. I now have enough capital and extra money to take care of my family,” he said.

    In Nigeria, digital payments continue to grow at a rapid pace and are on track to replace cash as the norm for daily payments. In its bid to encourage people to get a national identifier, federal and state governments are now using digital payment systems to distribute funds and social benefits.

    The benefits of the BVN

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    The Bank Verification Number was introduced in 2014 to curb financial fraud and improve accountability within the banking system.

    The NG-CARES programme’s use of BVN as a unique identifier prevents duplicate payments and creates a digital footprint for beneficiaries. This digital identity infrastructure isn’t just about preventing fraud – it’s laying the groundwork for beneficiaries to access other financial services in the future.

    “This requirement for a BVN is a double-edged sword,” Tunde Akande, a financial analyst said.

    “On one hand, it ensures that funds go to legitimate beneficiaries. On the other, it excludes those who are most vulnerable—people the programme is supposed to help,” he added.

    The Director-General of the Niger State Small, Medium and Microfinance Agency, Ahmed Shu’aibu Gwada, who spoke told The Nation that anyone who registers and does not input his or her BVN would not get the fund.

    This requirement has created a natural pathway for informal business owners to enter the formal banking system.

    “Honestly, if one registers and one ddidn’t have an account number, one can’t get funds. This is because the funds must be traced to you. Anybody that you see who has received this money applied and passed through that stage must have an account number.

    “The reason for demanding the BVN is to ensure that there is no double-dipping. This means that one person cannot use two different accounts to get the benefit as one’s BVN is linked to all of one’s accounts.

    “One person cannot get it twice, wherever you are in the state, as long as you have gotten it, you can’t get it twice. That is why the system makes use of the bank verification number. The moment you are deemed qualified, you’ve got the money; you cannot get it again.

    “Every applicant must have an account number. If one doesn’t have one, as one applies, we encourage one to go and have one. It is because the payment must be made through one’s account so that it can be traced to one. There’s no form of table payment. Table payment is not encouraged in this system,” he said.

     Digitising access to financial empowerment

    Unlike the previous interventions that involved traditional methods that rely on manual applications, the NG-CARES programme is fully digitised.

    The applicants are made to register online by providing detailed information about their businesses, which the system uses to categorise them into appropriate grant tiers. Amounts range from ₦50,000 to ₦600,000, depending on business size and operational needs.

    The digital approach is not only more efficient but it also eliminates barriers such as favouritism and corruption.

    “The system is open,” Gwada said. “You apply, move through the stages, and if you qualify, you are paid directly into your account.”

    Gwada explains that the digital application system ensures fairness and accessibility, removing bottlenecks such as favouritism or corruption.

    “It is a system that is open,” he said. “Applicants move from one stage to the next until they get to the final stage. This approach is not only transparent but also inclusive.

    “People apply online, though we have been able to guide them through some of these business centres around. We have also tried enlightened owners of the business centres so that when people approach them to help them to register online; they can do it for them such that they will be able to pass through the different because there are different stages. “So, people apply online, and when they do, it is the information they supply during the registration that naturally takes one to the category of the amount of money one gets as a support.”

    The programme’s backbone is a digital application system powered by the Bank of Industry (BOI), which serves as a technical partner and financial intermediary. This digital infrastructure marks a decisive shift from traditional table-payment systems that often breeds corruption and inefficiency.

    Reaching the unbanked

    Approximately 40 per cent of Nigerians remain unbanked, according to data from the World Bank. These are primarily rural dwellers, women, and low-income individuals who lack access to banking services due to distance, illiteracy, or distrust of financial institutions.

    According to the MD/CEO of the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS) Premier Owoh, 64 million people have enrolled for the BVN as of October last year.

    However, the exclusion of unbanked individuals from the NG-CARES programme has become a source of concern for activists and development experts as they believe that several people in the rural areas who need it would not benefit because they are not banked.

    “What we’re witnessing is systemic discrimination against the rural poor,” said Hafsat Ibrahim, a Social Policy Advocate.

    “If the government wants to uplift these communities, it must address the root causes of financial exclusion instead of relying solely on cashless systems,” Ibrahim said.

    For women in rural areas, the challenges are even more pronounced. Many are discouraged from opening bank accounts due to cultural norms or lack of identification documents. The disparity may widen the gender gap in access to financial and social support systems.

    The SME agency states that it has set up community-level desk officers in local government secretariats and enlisted community representatives identified as ‘pointers’ to ensure that those in rural areas can access the programme while awareness is being created through media campaigns in Hausa, Nupe, and Gwari to further broaden outreach to non-English-speaking populations.

     “We’ve consciously targeted cooperatives in rural areas, to ensure that every ward is represented in our statistics,” Gwada noted.

    Beneficiaries without bank accounts are encouraged to open them, with the Bank of Industry acting as the technical partner for disbursements.

    “The disbursement process involves partners such as BOI, which is our technical partner. The money is not with the SME agency. The monies are warehoused with the Bank of Industry. They are the ones that deploy the software that we are using for the application, for the processes, and even the disbursement. Ours is to monitor and ensure that things are moving fine.

    “But, at the end of the day, we are the ones to finally give the approval that those who have scaled through can be paid based on the approval of the state government. So, the monies are paid by the Bank of Industry. One cannot get paid if one doesn’t follow the process of application, nomination, vetting, and all that. So, we don’t pay directly,” Gwada said.

    Digital payments do not only enable transparency but also brings the unbanked into the financial system. This requirement ensures that funds are traceable and prevents duplicate applications, a problem that often plagues traditional programmes.

    Experts argue that the government must find a middle ground to ensure transparency and inclusiveness. Solutions could include mobile money platforms, which allow individuals to access financial services without traditional bank accounts, or community-based registration centres to help rural dwellers obtain BVNs.

    “There needs to be a deliberate effort to bridge the gap between the unbanked and financial systems,” said Akande. “The government should collaborate with financial institutions and civil society groups to develop solutions that are innovative and accessible.”

    Fatima Abdullahi, a widow and mother of three, shared her frustration: “I don’t have a bank account because the nearest bank is two-hours drive away. Now, I can’t access the funds to buy seeds for the planting season. How will I feed my children?”, she queried.

    This report is produced under the DPI Africa Journalism Fellowship Programme of the Media Foundation for West Africa and Co-Develop.

  • Kidnapper twins: We abduct our victims, dismember their bodies for sale, fortune soap, magic powder

    Kidnapper twins: We abduct our victims, dismember their bodies for sale, fortune soap, magic powder

    • Say we charge N100,000 for head, N50,000 for leg, N20,000 for other parts

    Taiwo Yemitan, recently arrested alongside his twin brother Kehinde for luring and killing a young girl for ritual purpose in Abeokuta, Ogun State, has opened on their mode of operation as serial killers in an exclusive audio file obtained by Head of Investigation, KUNLE AKINRINADE. Taiwo revealed how the abduction and killing of their last victim was orchestrated as well as the events that culminated in his arrest at the point of selling the victim’s head for N100,000.

    They are a pair of twins, the very kind that many people pray to have, particularly among the Yoruba who regard the birth of twins as a harbinger of good fortunes for the parents involved.

    But 47-year-old Taiwo and Kehinde Yemitan are anything but good fortunes. Rather than project their family name or make their parents proud, they became a huge source of embarrassment as alleged serial killers.

    The twin brothers are regarded as the anchor of a kidnapping syndicate that specialises in killing their victims and dismembering their bodies for sale and for production of magic powder fortune soaps.

    The twin brothers, who also worked as carpenters and herbalists, were said to have lured their latest victim, a young girl named Darasimi, to their hideout at Premier area of Abeokuta, where they killed and slaughtered her body for sale and ritual purposes.

    Luck, however, ran out on them a few weeks ago as they were arrested by men of the Ogun State Police Command in conjunction with other security agencies.

    Taiwo had been arrested on December 22, 2024 alongside one Kazeem for alleged murder and dismembering of Darasimi, a sex worker, while Kehinde, his twin brother, fled.

    According to the spokesperson for Ogun State Police Command, Omolola Odutola, the victim was lured to the suspects’ Abeokuta residence and killed.

    Odutola said: “Having been fingered as one of the accomplices to the tragic crime, the police surveillance team, in collaboration with the So Safe Corps, were on the look out for Kehinde until intelligence revealed his hideout on Monday, December 30, 2024.

    “At about 5 pm on that day, the Divisional Police Officer of Sango Otta received a tip from a volunteer informant indicating that Kehinde, the twin brother of Taiwo Yemitan, was hiding in Ilogbo community.

    “The police launched a manhunt for him in connection with the murder and mutilation of one Darasimi, surname unknown, on the 22nd of December, 2024 when his twin brother, Taiwo, and Kazeem were arrested at about 1 pm by the Divisional Police Officer of Lafenwa after the duo lured Darasimi, a night sex worker in Abeokuta, to their house for ritual purposes.’’

    In an exclusive audio file obtained by our correspondent, Taiwo confessed to the crime and opened up on how they had been killing people for ritual purposes.

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    He said after killing their victims, they would dismember their bodies and sell them to patrons who used them for money making rituals for as low as N50,000 and as high as N100,000 depending on the part of the body, while they also use some of the body parts to make magic soap to attract good fortunes.

    He said: ‘’My name is Taiwo Yemitan. I am from Fekemo area of Totoro, Owu, Abeokuta.

    “My father’s name is Rafiu Yemitan. He is late now. My mother is from Gbagura area of Abeokuta too.

    “My twin brother (Kehinde) and I trained as carpenters, but we also double as herbalists.

    “I am 47 years old.

    ‘’We received training as herbalists in Omu Aran, Kwara State when we were contracted for carpentry job at a private university. The people who hosted us in Omu Aran were herbalists.

    “While I juggled carpentry with being a herbalist, Kehinde works full time as a herbalist.

    “We have been working as herbalists for 15 years, and we operate around Premier College in Abeokuta, where our office is located.

    “I used to stay at Ilogbo in Ota where I was living with my wife and two children. But I usually visited my twin brother, Kehinde, in Abeokuta on weekends.

    “Kehinde works as a full-time herbalist while I juggle carpentry with being a herbalist.

    ‘’On a particular weekend, I visited Kehinde and discovered that he was into trading in human parts and ritual killings. He introduced me to it.

    “We usually kill our victims and sell their body parts for money rituals, grill some and grind them into powder for consumption with alcohol or mix them with soap for a magic bath that would bring good fortunes.

    “We have an accomplice named Kazeem, who usually supplies us with fresh human parts. He has brought fresh human parts to us about four times. He usually wrapped them in nylon.”

    Explaining their dastardly activities further, Taiwo said: “We sell ordinary body parts for N20,000 and hands or limbs for N50,000. It was the same amount we sold Darasimi’s hand.

    “We sell a leg for N50,000 while the heart goes for N100,000.’’

    Giving an insight into how their latest victim was killed and dismembered, Taiwo said it was Kehinde that lured the victim to their home where they killed her and dismembered her body.

    He said: ‘’Darasimi, a sex worker, was picked up from the Lafenwa area of Abeokuta and brought to our office on a Friday by my twin brother.

    “She was served Fufu which we had sent a teenage boy called Samson to get for her from a food vendor in the neighbourhood.

    “Samson is the one that helps us with chores and errands. I also ate from the meal.

    “It was in the evening. Kazeem arrived moments later, and that was the first time I would meet him.

    “At night, Darasimi made some calls on her mobile phone and I overheard her telling someone that she would return home the next day.

    “Moments later, Kehinde told me that Darasimi was the person we would kill for ritual purposes.

    “Kehinde later moved Darasimi to an adjoining office and engaged her in a conversation during which Kazeem appeared and covered her face with a handkerchief.

    “I held her legs while Kehinde also held her down to prevent her from struggling with us. Kazeem slaughtered her, severed her head and drained her blood into a bowl, mixed it with alcohol.

    “Kazeem dismembered her and took a large part of her body parts including her intestines away.

    “Kehinde told me that Kazeem would return the body parts to him later when I asked why Kazeem was taking away substantial parts of the body.

    “We only took her heart, kidney, head and leg.”

    Taiwo said that after carrying out the killing, they were apprehended by security agents at the point of handing over the victim’s head to a buyer for N100,000. Unknown to him and others, the alleged buyer was only used as a bait for their arrest.

    Taiwo said: ‘’The buyer, named Fakorede, is a member of the Agbekoya, a local security outfit, who promised to pay N100,000 for the girl’s head.

    “We had agreed to hand over the head to him at a certain point around Premier College area of Abeokuta.

    “Kehinde was to attend a party on the Saturday I was arrested. So, Fakorede asked us to wrap the head in a sack and bring it to him around 7pm.

    “I was led to the place by a boy who served as our errand boy. He told me how to get to the spot.

    “I approached the gate of Premier College looking forward to meeting Fakorede, only to discover that I had been lured into the police net.

    “As I tried to figure out how to handle the situation, operatives of Agbekoya accosted and apprehended me. I was then taken to their office at Lafenwa, Abeokuta.

    “Kehinde took the boy (Samson) to his mother’s home when we were about to kill Darasimi because we didn’t want him to know what was about to happen to the lady.

    “We can never kill Samson for rituals because his mother is aware that he runs errands for us and helps us to fetch water and had even slept in our home many times.

    “The highest amount we collected as payment for human parts is N100,000. We sell hand and leg for N50,000; kidney and heart for N100,000 and head also for N100,000.

    “Fakorede has never bought human parts from us before. He only contacted us for human parts in order to expose and arrest us.

    “I had warned Kehinde about the consequences of engaging in killing and selling human parts.

    “I know that my family members would have got wind of my arrest for ritual killing, but none of them has shown up or visited me (in police custody).

    “I will never engage in this crime again. I seek forgiveness and promised not to go back to a life of crime if pardoned.’’