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Category: Saturday Magazine

  • Quest for food security, economic stability in Southwest

    Quest for food security, economic stability in Southwest

    Despite an abundance of land, resources and government policies, Nigeria has continued to face food insecurity. The trend of increasing food prices in the country demands immediate action and long-term sustainable solutions. As a result, the governments in the Southwest are ramping up their initiatives to tackle this pressing issue. In response, the six states, working with the Development Commission of Western Nigeria (DAWN), are in search of solutions that will not only offer some quick wins but remedies that will turn the region into an enduring food basket, DANIEL ESSIET reports

    Since 2013, Nigeria has consistently ranked high on the Global Food Security Index (GFSI), with a strong emphasis on domestic food production. However, the country’s ranking has declined over the years, reaching 107th out of 113 countries in 2022 with a score of 42.0%. Despite efforts to improve food security through subsidies and local production initiatives, Nigeria continues to face structural challenges in its agriculture sector, leading to low productivity and quality of agricultural produce. This poses significant implications for the country’s food security.

    Despite Nigeria’s attempts to strengthen food security with subsidies and initiatives to promote local production, persistent structural challenges have impeded progress. The agriculture sector is struggling with issues including uncertainty, low productivity and quality of agricultural products, inadequate automation and technology utilization, and a high reliance on foreign labour. Nigeria boasts a significant amount of arable land, totalling 70.8 million hectares dedicated to agriculture, with major crops including maize, cassava, guinea corn, yam beans, millet and rice. Despite this, it has lower average yield according to the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO).

    With President Bola Tinubu’s goal of achieving food self-sufficiency, aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s agricultural productivity and reducing dependency on food imports, states have been tasked with identifying specific areas for food production and devising strategies for their development. As part of a large agricultural transformation agenda, Lagos is piloting a mega food logistics system with a high level of documented safety compliance. The Commissioner for Agriculture, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, emphasised the critical importance of safety compliance in this pilot project.

    For the Commissioner for Agriculture, domestic agriculture and food can be engines of economic growth, creating jobs for new entrants to the labour market. She believes there is significant potential to enhance the quality of the agri-food industry and make it more attractive. She highlighted the increasing demand for both fresh and frozen food. Central to the success of the food processing industry, according to Olusanya, are factors such as temperature regulation, hygiene, and the production of ready-to-eat foods. To address these, she said the state is establishing agro hubs to assist farmers and producers in meeting stringent sanitary standards that ensure food safety. Overall, Ms. Olusanya’s approach aims to enhance the quality and attractiveness of the agri-food sector in Lagos, making it a robust driver of economic development and employment opportunities.

    In the heart of Southwest Nigeria, encompassing Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, and Ekiti states, the agricultural industry stands as a cornerstone of the national economy. The region’s fertile land, diverse ecosystems, and strategic economic position have made it a key player in the country’s agricultural landscape, contributing significantly to national food security. However, recent challenges have highlighted the need for a concerted effort to ensure the continued resilience and productivity of this vital sector. The agricultural process, from primary production to distribution, transportation, storage and sale to the end customer, must adhere to stringent hygiene standards to ensure food safety and quality. Yet, the Southwest region has been grappling with acute food scarcity exacerbated by pervasive insecurity, threatening the stability and sustainability of food production and distribution.

    In response to this pressing issue, the governors of the Southwest states recently convened at a food security roundtable organized by the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State. This high-level meeting aimed to develop a comprehensive regional agricultural framework to address the food security challenges head-on. The Southwest Governors’ Forum, recognising the urgent need for action, mandated the DAWN Commission to organise this crucial meeting. During the session, Commissioners for Agriculture from all six states committed to implementing the agreed-upon resolutions meticulously, signalling a unified approach to tackling the region’s food security issues.

    In his opening speech, Dr. Seye Oyeleye, the Director General of the DAWN Commission, underscored the necessity of dispelling the myth that the Southwest can no longer produce its own food. He called on participants to formulate actionable recommendations that state governors could implement swiftly, emphasizing the region’s potential to reclaim its agricultural prowess. The roundtable discussions highlighted several key areas for immediate and long-term action. These included enhancing agricultural productivity through modern farming techniques, improving security to protect farmers and their produce, and investing in infrastructure to facilitate efficient transportation and storage of agricultural goods. Additionally, the need for collaboration between state governments, private sector stakeholders, and international partners was emphasised to pool resources and expertise.

    By the end of the roundtable, a comprehensive set of recommendations was developed, focusing on boosting local food production, ensuring food safety, and creating a sustainable agricultural framework for the Southwest region. These recommendations included measures to support smallholder farmers, enhance access to agricultural financing, and promote the adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices. The commitment shown by the Southwest governors and agricultural commissioners at this meeting marks a significant step towards revitalizing the region’s agricultural sector. With a clear framework and collaborative effort, the Southwest can overcome its current challenges and pave the way for a more secure and prosperous agricultural future.

    As these initiatives take root, the hope is that the Southwest will not only restore its capacity to produce sufficient food for its population but also contribute more robustly to the national food security agenda. The DAWN Commission’s role in facilitating this collaborative effort is crucial, ensuring that the region’s agricultural policies and practices align with broader national and global food security goals. In the coming months, the successful implementation of these strategies will be critical. By focusing on practical, impactful solutions, the Southwest states can achieve a sustainable transformation in their agricultural sector, reinforcing their position as a vital contributor to Nigeria’s food security and economic stability.

    Further agreements reached during the meeting involve significant land clearance, improved security measures, and the large-scale cultivation of short-term crops such as maize, sweet potatoes, and vegetables. Additional initiatives consist of rejuvenating stagnant dams for irrigation, enhancing mechanisation along the entire value chain, adopting a cluster farming strategy, expanding input distribution, and establishing an electronic agriculture database. Indeed, the South-west region is currently confronted with the task of enhancing food production through the implementation of strategies that aim to improve efficiency and educate farmers on the latest agricultural advancements.

    Speaking with The Nation, Ms Abisola Olusanya pointed out: “We had agreed as far back as 2019 for the states in the Southwest to focus on developing their competitive areas of strength in food production. At the end of the day, collectively we will become food secure. In Lagos, our focus has been on building market access and up taking capacities and aggregation. Other states in the South-west such as Oyo, Ondo , Ogun  and Ekiti can grow for Lagos to uptake. Part of our understanding as members of the region is that if one is going to grow, the other should uptake. Along the line, we had challenges with implementation. That was in the past. In recent times, we decided to forge ahead regardless of   present challenges.  Part of our plan in Lagos is to build a huge up-taking market. The market requires a lot of food items in flow.  The food will come from different parts of the country. Apart from the little we will grow internally. Therefore, the level of collaboration and synergy required to achieve this has to be greater now.  Rather than waiting for other states to get their farmers to kick start production as part of the collective vision, we are supporting mobilising our farmers to grow food .That has been the conversation.”

    She highlighted that regional agricultural progress is pivotal in paving the way for comprehensive change, emphasising that it is imperative for the collaborating states to fully dedicate themselves to boosting agricultural productivity. This goal is interconnected with advancements in boosting access to technology, improving the efficiency of farming practices, increasing private investment, and reducing fragmentation in value chains. Significant efforts are being made to improve food production in the Southwest.

    DAWN plays a key role in coordinating efforts between industry, government and academia to ensure a sustainable and profitable future for agriculture and food production in the region. The organization is firmly committed to partnering with the states to double food production, and its strategic plan has been met with an overwhelmingly positive reception. A recent meeting on agriculture funding in the Southwest convened by the Commission brought together the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF), the six states in the region, and key private sector stakeholders. The forum was attended by the NADF delegation, led by its Executive Secretary Mohammed Abu Ibrahim; the DAWN Commission team, led by Director-General Seye Oyeleye; the six ministries of agriculture in the region; Odu’a Investments Company Limited (OICL); and other participants. Ibrahim told the meeting that NADF is focusing on improving agricultural output, import substitution, and employment generation in alignment with President Tinubu’s agenda and the mission of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to transform Nigeria into an agricultural economy.

    “It is very gratifying that through the DAWN Commission, we have the six states of the Southwest articulate their different positions. I don’t know if I have seen this model elsewhere. I noticed the well-articulated agricultural policies of the states, which show purposeful leadership. We expect to proceed into working groups to see how we can now deliver our mandate.”

    Each state presented statistical data on past and current agricultural projects and outlined future plans to secure funding from NADF. Lagos State focused on establishing agro-produce hubs and enhancing value chains in various sectors. Ekiti prioritised cocoa, oil palm, rice, poultry, and small ruminants. Ogun State highlighted its advantage in cassava and poultry production and the need for funding to boost output. Ondo State emphasised the importance of funding for land development, climate-smart agriculture and priority value chains. Osun State sought support for rural road rehabilitation and high-yield seedlings. Meanwhile, Oyo requested funding for ongoing mechanised farming initiatives and viable seed production.

    Industrialised agriculture brings change

    As the demand for locally sourced food continues to rise, entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector are meeting the challenge with innovation and resilience. Among them is Kola Adeniji, the founder of Niji Group, who recognises the region’s significance in terms of agricultural output. His business spans manufacturing agri-processing equipment, farming, and food production. Niji Farm’s cassava farm is considered one of the largest, while Niji Foods is a leading processor of cassava in the country. The company offers a range of products, including fine gari, odourless fufu, yam flour, cassava peel mash for livestock feed, and high-quality industrial cassava flour used in various industries.

    Read Also: Stakeholders seek action on food security in Ondo, Ekiti,  Osun

    Adeniji emphasised the importance of agriculture in eradicating hunger and malnutrition in the region, stressing the need for increased attention to agriculture. This includes ensuring access to funds, improved seeds, and agricultural extension services to keep farmers informed about new seeds and effective marketing strategies. Moving forward, he urged Southwest governors to focus on increasing the region’s productivity and reducing food production costs through modernization and technology. Applauding the regional move to provide support and incentives for the sector, he noted that the agricultural sector continues to be one of the most important growth engines for the Southwest economy.

    With a multitude of programs aimed at boosting agricultural production, expectations are high that the region will witness a decrease in the cost of essential food items. This reduction will allow consumers to allocate more resources towards other goods, fuelling consumer spending and strengthening domestic investment. The outcome is expected to be a favourable economic landscape characterised by increased aggregate demand, higher domestic investment, and improved employment opportunities. The Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has unveiled plans to transform the agricultural sector in the state, assuring stakeholders that his administration is addressing critical issues such as farm inputs, tractorisation and food security.

    According to Governor Adeleke, his administration has developed a robust and inclusive plan for the agricultural sector, emphasising, “The state is now poised for the implementation of various programs in the sector. We prioritise agriculture profoundly. Initially, our government focused on addressing infrastructure deficits to enhance connectivity between rural and urban areas within the agricultural sector. Our initial efforts centred on constructing roads and bridges to strengthen transportation and market linkages. Now that significant progress has been achieved in infrastructure development, we are ready to launch specific programs tailored for the agricultural sector. I have established an implementation committee based on recommendations from our food security committee.”

    Similarly, Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, has unveiled a new initiative aimed at boosting agriculture in the state. The initiative includes a 50 per cent subsidy on improved cocoa, oil palm and cashew seedlings distributed to farmers during the current planting season. This subsidy is intended to attract new farmers and rejuvenate the agricultural sector. According to the state’s Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Ebenezer Boluwade, this programme forms part of a comprehensive strategy to revitalise Ekiti State’s agriculture sector and create employment opportunities.

    The Ogun State government has reiterated its commitment to mechanized agriculture as a cornerstone of ensuring food security within the state. Speaking during a two-day training organised for Ogun farmers by Contec Global Agro LTD, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ogun State Economic Transformation Project, Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security Bolu Owotomo emphasised this commitment. Owotomo highlighted that the state has implemented various empowerment programmes aimed at boosting farm productivity and ensuring food security. He underscored food security as the top priority of the administration led by Governor Dapo Abiodun, noting the extensive empowerment efforts targeting farmers, including women. The state has distributed crop inputs, herbicides, and livestock to farmers to enhance productivity and increase food availability for consumption.

    In summary, Ogun State’s initiatives underscore a concerted effort to leverage mechanized agriculture and comprehensive empowerment programs to bolster food security and enhance agricultural productivity across the state. “Indeed, food security is our top priority in the state, as the administration led by Dapo Abiodun has ordered the massive empowerment of farmers across the state, including women farmers, so the state has distributed both crop inputs, herbicides and birds to the farmers, in order to boost their productivity and make food available for people’s consumption,” Owotomo said.

    In the past five years, there has been a notable surge in investor interest in the agricultural industry across the Southwest of Nigeria, driven by a range of attractive and diversified opportunities. The agricultural and agri-food sectors play pivotal roles in the economies of Lagos and Ogun States. This heightened interest in investment is largely fuelled by increasing demand for food products, spurred by population growth and urbanisation trends. Furthermore, the Southwest’s advantageous geographical position, characterised by fertile land and favourable climate, enhances the region’s agricultural productivity.

    Odua Investments Company Limited has been actively involved in unlocking the estimated Gross Domestic Product (GDP) potential of the Southwest, valued at over $80 billion, and harnessing its significant agricultural capabilities. Dr. Segun Aina, the Group Chairman of Odua Investments, recently highlighted that their subsidiary, SWAgCo, was established to unlock unrealised agricultural and underutilised agribusiness potential. The organisation aims to transform these opportunities into institutional-grade investment operations, leveraging their expertise to maximise the economic potential of agriculture across the South-west region.

  • TEMS: Being loner helped my music

    TEMS: Being loner helped my music

    Nigerian singer and songwriter, Temilade Openiyi popularly known as Tems grew up in her parent’s house in Ilupeju, Lagos. She was the type who didn’t mix with people outside his family.

    Due to her loneliness, Tems developed interest in music. She started writing at age 11 and became a chansonnier at 12.

    After studying Economics at the university, she was hired as a digital marketer. However, due to her apathy for the job, she was later ‘demoted’ to a personal assistant. In 2018, Tems quit her corporate job and ventured into the music world.

    The 29-year-old vocalist started learning music and sound production on YouTube. After she mastered the craft, Tems released her self-produced song titled, ‘Mr Rebel’, and followed up with another hit single ‘Try Me’ in 2019.

    Her joint effort with award-winning singer, Wizkid in a song titled, ‘Essense’ made her a global star. Tems has since become the first female Nigerian artiste to win a Grammy, and also the first female Nigerian singer to be nominated for a Grammy Award.

    Olaitan Ganiu monitored her recent chat with Grammy where she talked about her progress in the music industry, the inspiration behind her debut studio album ‘Born in the Wild’, and the future path for herself.

    Debut albums set the tone for an artiste’s entire career. What do you want to convey with ‘Born in the Wild?’                                                                                            

    As humans, we are multidimensional beings. ‘Born in the Wild’ is about embracing all of oneself. Thinking about when I decided to go into music up until this point, I had to figure out the best way to tell the story of the Nigerian girl who became this person called Tems. And that person was born in the wilderness. Yes, I was born in Africa, but the wilderness is more about the difficulties that I faced mentally and the jump from working 9 am to 5 pm, to trying to sing when nobody believed in you and everybody laughed at you.

    ‘Born in the Wild’ is about survival; I was born in a survival state and raised to survive. Coming from that to now being someone who can dominate, the ability to overcome and to conquer — that’s the story. That’s my story.

    ‘Born in the Wild’ speaks to success and taking advantage of every opportunity that is presented to you. It sounds like you’re documenting your journey in real-time. Can you speak more about that?

    I’m someone who doesn’t like attention. Like, I could be in my room making my music for months, and I would not even fathom sharing my music. I’m such an introvert. I love my alone time. I do everything I can to make sure I can just go back into my cave.

    ‘Ready’ is about the moment that I decided I will no longer hide, I will no longer be in my comfort zone, I will no longer be silent. I recognize that what I need to do is bigger than me. It’s not about what I like or what’s comfortable for me. It’s what needs to be done, you know? I cannot make art and just enjoy my art like that.

    I’m willing to overcome myself so that I can be the person that I’m meant to be, and I’m ready now to face whatever difficulty, or obstacle comes my way. Even if it makes me cry, even if it makes me angry, even if it makes me sad, I’m ready. I’ll do it crying. I’ll do it angry. I’m going to continue going forward. That’s a decision I’ve made, and I haven’t turned back since.

    Do you feel like you’re still in survival mode, or are you slowly coming out of that and now being able to somewhat relish in the success you’ve had?

    I don’t think after survival comes relish. I think after survival comes learning and unlearning. I think now I’m in a place where I can actually thrive. I can flourish and grow and blossom more into the person that I’m meant to be. I can take things and I can receive love easier. I can understand things better because I’m not so busy trying to survive that I forget to actually learn the lessons that are meant to help me overcome the things that come my way. Life is always gonna be life, but then you develop a different type of strength when you’re not in survival mode.

    When did you know ‘Born in the Wild’ was going to be a full-length album and not another EP? In a 2023 interview, you said you weren’t sure which way it was going to go amid some of those early recording sessions.

     I don’t know the particular moment; I just woke up and realized that the things I’ve been working on are all seemingly coming together. I definitely was more intricate with each of the songs, and more critical of the songs. I had to remove myself from them as if I wasn’t making them. That way, I could see them objectively for what they were.

    In terms of the process of actually creating the music, it has not changed. I still kind of approach it like, I’m going to make music today. I don’t know what’s gonna happen today, but I hope it’s something great.

    Was there anything about the creative process that surprised you?

     I’ve changed a lot from the person who started writing, like from the earliest song that was written until now. I literally learned how to trust the process. I used to say that all the time, but in my mind, I was like, I trust the process, I guess. I don’t know what that is, but it’s cool. I tried to rush it, but it just doesn’t work out when you do, no matter what.

    So, I just did my best showing up every single day, taking it step by step, day by day. And that will frustrate you, but then I started learning to observe myself in frustration, like, Wow, okay. Why is this happening? Just allowing yourself to be is also part of trusting the process.

    As Afrobeats continues to reach new heights, how can consumers and the industry do better at supporting African artistes so they don’t feel pigeonholed or confined to solely Afrobeats?

    Every artiste has the power and ability to define themselves. Every artiste is in charge of how they view themselves. Some people call me R&B, some people call me alternative, and some people call me Afrobeats. When I’m making music, I am not thinking, Oh, because I released ‘Free Mind,’ all my songs must sound like ‘Free Mind’ or Because I did ‘Try Me Now,’ I have to stay there. Otherwise, who is going to consume my music?

     I just kind of do my thing, which I feel every artiste should do as well. They should go hard and stand for themselves, and define who they are for themselves because the world can’t define who you are in any sector. Nobody outside of you can define you. You define yourself, and the world acts accordingly. They respond to your definition.

    What did winning your first Grammy in 2023 mean to you? And what do you hope that 2024 unlocks for you?

    Winning a Grammy for me feels like, Wow! I’m being seen. I feel seen, and I feel acknowledged. I also feel hopeful for other African artistes.

    For 2024, I want to do my very best to present my art in the best way possible as I see the vision in my head. I’m not really thinking about what’s gonna come from that, but I just know I want to really do something different with ‘Born in the Wild.’ I’m really focused on doing that and having fun while I do that. It’s gonna be incredible. I can’t wait.

  • Health workers in battle to save lives as bandits turn safe havens into ghost towns

    Health workers in battle to save lives as bandits turn safe havens into ghost towns

    •Care givers adopt ‘hit-and-run’ strategy to deliver critical needs

    The escalating terror unleashed by bandits in Niger State, particularly Munya and Shiroro local government areas, has plunged healthcare system in the area into crisis. JUSTINA ASISHANA reports that health workers in the area are braving the odds to deliver healthcare services to ensure that the plight of the embattled communities are not compounded by vulnerability to ill health.

    In January 2024, Nancy Yakubu, a dedicated Community Health Extension Worker (CHEW) in Shiroro Local Government Area (LGA), made a heart-wrenching decision. After narrowly escaping an ambush by terrorists on the road between Gwada and Zaumba, two communities within the local government area, she sought a transfer to the ostensibly safer Gwada Primary Healthcare Centre (PHC) within Shiroro. Her journey along the perilous Gwada-Zaumba route had become too hazardous due to the broader security crisis engulfing Niger State.

    She said: “I decided to transfer my service elsewhere, as I was returning from work one day and bandits attacked us (commuters) on the road.

    “The attack was close to the bridge at Shiroro village. It was God that saved us.

    “I secured a transfer to Gwada PHC because the insecurity was becoming too much and seemed to be extending to the community where I worked as a healthcare official.

    “The attacks along Zumba Road have affected many people.”

    Yakubu’s experience is emblematic of a larger crisis affecting healthcare in Munya and Shiroro LGAs, where terrorist attacks have left a tale of destruction. Between January and June 2024, no fewer than 360 people were abducted while 36 others were killed across communities in the aforementioned local government areas, according to media reports.

    Insecurity forces shutdown of healthcare facilities

    Bandit attacks have forced the complete closure of several PHCs in Shiroro and Munya local government areas. Ruthless criminals, motivated by abduction and ransom payments, have created a climate of fear that has crippled access to healthcare. The remaining facilities offering only skeletal services shuts down abruptly whenever news of an attack surfaces.

    Read Also: Economy: CBN governor Cardoso assures Nigerians of growth, stability

    According to media reports, a relentless wave of violence sweeps through Shiroro and Munya, with some communities bearing the brunt of attacks that occur on a near-weekly basis.

    For example, eight out of Shiroro’s 15 wards, including Manta, Gurmana, Bassa-Kokki, Allawa, Kurebe, Kushaka, Kwati, and Chukumba, are plagued by bandit attacks. Insecurity has forced the closure of most PHCs in these areas, prioritising the safety of staff and patients, but leaving many in remote areas without access to vital medical care.

    Speaking to SOLACEBASE about the dire situation, Yakubu said: “Insecurity has depleted our manpower. People have fled, leaving us with a skeletal staff. We have no equipment and the facility is simply too small.

    “When emergencies arise due to attacks, we are forced to refer patients elsewhere, because we can’t handle them.

    “Fear has become our constant companion. Supervisors no longer visit for fear of being attacked.

    “This has stalled many critical projects. Even a recent malaria net distribution campaign was hampered as supervisors refused to travel to Zumba, citing safety concerns.

    “They focus on safer areas like Kuta and Gwada.”

    According to her, the frequency of attacks has escalated in the last three weeks, with daily raids on villages. “Bandits are not only targeting lives but also burning homes and food stores, further jeopardising the well-being of the community,” she added.

    Kuchi, a town in Munya LGA frequently attacked by bandits, faces a similar healthcare crisis. Amina Jagaba, a Community Health Extension Worker (CHEW) in the community, said the indefinite closure of Kuchi PHC was due to relentless attacks.

    The situation is dire. In May 2024, more than 150 residents were kidnapped in a single incident. While 40 were released after hefty ransoms were paid, the fate of the remaining captives hangs in the balance. Negotiations drag on, with bandits demanding more money for their freedom.

    Jagaba told SolaceBase: “Our community is deserted. Who would dare return, especially health workers like us?

    “We stopped working immediately after the attacks. We can only reopen when it is demonstrably safe.

    “Unlike night time raids, these bandits attack in broad daylight, and we refuse to be kidnapped.

    “I have no one to pay millions in ransom nor will the government. So staying safe is paramount.”

    Mariam, a resident who did not want her full name mentioned for security reasons, is a displaced mother of two from Munya Local Government Area, who currently stays with relatives in Kuta, the headquarters of Shiroro LGA. She said she nearly lost her six-month-old baby during delivery due to the closure of the health centre in her community in Dangunu ward.

    Her husband, she said, had to risk travelling with her while in labour on his motorcycle to Comprehensive Healthcare Centre in Sarkin Pawa, also within the same LGA.

    “By the time we got to Sarkin Pawa, my baby was almost out. I had to put my hands to keep it from coming out.

    “I thank God for my husband. If not, I would have given birth at home with no care at all because the hospital that is close to us does not open again.

    “The pain was much and I thank God I did not lose the baby.”

    Another mother, Hadiza Audu, who was living in Tunga Kawo community in Munya LGA before she moved to Gwada in Shiroro Local Government Area, said her first two children missed out on the immunizations they should have taken before they got to two years as no health worker came around the community to give immunization, adding that only her third child got her full dosage before she got to two years.

    “Each time we ask about immunization, they tell us to go to either Kuta or Gwada because it’s unsafe for them to travel here.

    “I’m happy my children are okay, but I’m sad they didn’t get their full dosage of vaccines as the hospital said they needed to,” she said.

    The Chairman, Munya LGA, Mallam Aminu Najume, said that health centres closed due to insecurity would be reopened once the violent attacks subside in the affected communities.

    “Health services have more challenges than ever. The PHCs in the affected communities have been shut down because of regular attacks,” Najume said.

    The Permanent Secretary, Niger State Ministry of Primary Health, Dr Abdullahi Imam, also acknowledged the PHCs closures due to safety risks for healthcare workers but did not disclose the exact number of affected facilities.

    “Yes, it is true that some of the health facilities have been shut down, just like some houses and businesses.

    “But I do not have the number now. Some are operating skeletally as they only attend to emergencies and offer essential services.

    “The insecurity is not usually permanent in several of these areas, which is why those areas are running skeletal services, because the safety of the health workers is paramount, as those who are threatened have been moved to where they won’t be threatened.

    “To ensure that health services are not completely halted, we have fortified the nearby health facilities which are offering the services without any challenge,” Dr Imam said.

    Immunization, pregnancies at risk, other essential services on hold

    Immunization, ante-natal services and basic healthcare delivery have been interrupted due to the incessant attacks. Polio and malaria campaigns, net distribution and maternal health week programmes are also affected.

    In response to these persistent threats and the need to deliver essential health services, health workers in the Lakpma axis of Shiroro LGA have adopted a “hit-and-run” strategy.

    The “hit-and-run” strategy, as explained by Mohammed Erena, Shiroro LGA health educator, involves health workers making several calls to assess the security situation before entering volatile areas affected by banditry.

    In this,  they rely on information from villagers who serve as Junior Community Health Extension Workers (JCHEWs) and Community Health Extension Workers (CHEWs) to understand the ground situation. Once they determine it’s safe, they quickly provide necessary health services and leave the area promptly to avoid being caught in any attacks.

    Erena disclosed that due to the insecurity in Lakpma, which is the most affected area in the local government, health workers use this strategy (hit-and-run) to provide critical health services.

    Erena said: “We have been finding it very difficult to access some areas to provide optimal healthcare services.

    “Several villages have been attacked by bandits and people in these localities are scattered in various IDP camps and staying with relatives in safer places.

    “Due to insecurity, especially across the River Kaduna in the Lakpma axis, almost all the wards in that area have been affected by banditry.

    “Some of our health facilities have been shut down, and those still offering services do so using hit-and-run strategies to provide key health services in those areas.”

    In the Gusoro/Zumba ward in Munya, regular immunization services have ceased, and residents cannot access basic treatment or antenatal care due to lack of access to the PHC in the ward.

    The ward’s focal person, Lawal Mohammed, explained that they often rely on local staff, most of whom are residents, to provide health services to the people remaining in the community, as many have relocated to safer areas.

    He said: “We flee when bandits attack and return when they leave. This has forced us to offer limited health services.

    “Sometimes, we provide immunization, but at other times we cannot.

    “We also visit neighbouring communities that are safe and ask residents to come and receive services there.

    “Our services are now limited and skeletal. They are not as smooth as they were before.”

    Tanko Daudu, a health worker residing in Gwada and working at Erena Primary Healthcare, described the challenges they face during community outreach efforts, saying that when attacks occur, they seek safe places until it’s safe to return to the PHC.

    While the Comprehensive Healthcare Centre in Erena benefits from a security presence, the PHCs in surrounding villages have ceased operations due to insecurity.

    “Routine immunisation has decreased because of terrorist attacks. These attackers can strike at any time, and when we hear they’re nearby, we avoid those areas.

    “Erena town is somewhat safe due to the presence of soldiers and policemen, but the villages are not,” Daudu explained.

    He added: “There are primary healthcare centres in villages like Gaba and Rafin Seyin, where health workers visit occasionally.

    “During attacks, we leave everything behind and return when it is safe.

    “If an outreach is planned and there are reports of attacks, we cancel the outreach. It’s been an on-and-off situation.”

    Daudu confirmed that despite Erena Comprehensive Primary Healthcare Facility being secure and well-equipped with drugs and necessary facilities, villagers cannot access it due to the insecurity.

    “It takes courage to travel these roads because attacks can happen anytime. We provide family planning, antenatal care, deliveries and other services, but there are no patients due to insecurity,” he said.

    In Munya, the same strategy is being adopted. Mr. Dumas Shashere, the Health Educator in Munya, explained that none of the health workers had been abducted due to their safety measures.

    “We tell them to shut down the place and run away once they hear that an attack is imminent. Safety comes first, and they should not work where there is insecurity.

    “So, none of them has been abducted because of these safety measures,” he said.

    Shashere explained that the recent HPV immunisation campaign was affected in Munya local government as several communities, especially in Kuchi ward, could not benefit from the programme.

    Despite tracing some displaced persons to the IDP camps in Sarkin Pawa, they could not locate the majority of the residents from the affected communities.

    “Kudu, Dangunu, Sarkin Pawa and Kuchi wards are among the wards affected by banditry. Each of these wards has boundaries, so if the bandits are heading to Kuchi, they pass through Dangunu, causing havoc there first.

    “Clinic activities have shut down in those areas as the health workers have to flee for their safety, which is very important to us.”

    Health workers’ safety compromised

    The contrast between official statements and the reality on the ground is stark. Despite Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago’s assurances that the security situation is improving, healthcare workers like Yakubu and Jagaba find the government’s actions insufficient. While the governor claimed that internally displaced persons (IDPs) are returning home, many healthcare workers remain skeptical.

    Efforts by this reporter to visit these volatile areas were thwarted as security personnel and locals warned of the dangers.

    “You face challenges either going or returning. You don’t know who you will encounter. Some are informants, and your safety is not guaranteed,” one official advised.

    Instead, this reporter met with health workers in safer locations like Gwada and Kuta. However, most health workers were wary of speaking to the media, refusing interviews and only interjected when colleagues spoke boldly.

    Although no health workers have been abducted in Munya, some have suffered the bandits’ wrath, being seriously beaten or injured during attacks.

    “Some health workers were beaten and injured by bandits on their way to administer oral polio vaccinations in Tunga Ugwan. Fortunately, we haven’t heard of such incidents again,” Shashere said.

    In Shiroro, the situation is equally dire. One health worker was killed in Allawa, and two others were abducted in the past two years, released only after their families paid hefty ransoms. One CHEW, Emmanuel Danjuma, was abducted in 2023 and he spent weeks in captivity until his family paid a ransom exceeding one million naira, according to Shashere.

    In Munya, several PHCs have been vandalized by bandits during attacks on communities. Health facilities in Mangoro and Shape under Sarkin Pawa Ward, Luwi under Kabula Ward, Sohon Dangunu PHC in Dangunu Ward, Kazai Bgagy, Kazai Kadara, and Kamache PHCs in Kazai Ward have all been vandalized.

    “The Kuchi PHC remains, but the community is deserted after an attack by bandits,” Shashere said.

    Speaking about the abduction of health workers, the permanent secretary said he had not received any reports of such incidents since he took office a year ago. He also clarified that the government did not pay any ransom.

    “If they say that some of them were abducted and had to pay ransom for their release, I will say the ministry is not aware of that.

    “The Niger State government does not pay ransom nor do we support the payment of ransom in any way.

    “We are dealing with those bandits, using both kinetic and non-kinetic methods, so we are not aware of any ransom being paid.

    “Nobody asked us (the government) to pay ransom and we did not pay any ransom. However, we thank God that those who were abducted have been released,” he said.

    The rains to the rescue

    Security sources indicated that bandits often come in from Zamfara through Kaduna to enter Niger State, frequently crossing the River Kaduna to access these communities, wreak havoc and retreat via the same route.

    The River Kaduna passes through Sarkin Pawa, Dangunu and other towns in Munya LGA, and during heavy rainfall, it becomes difficult to cross.

    Erena said: “Now that the rainy season is here, the bandits will no longer be able to cross to these villages because they move on bikes, and these bikes cannot cross the overflowing river.

     “From previous years, we have noticed that heavy rains prevent attacks, so we always look forward to the rainy season as it helps in reducing this menace.

    “Even as we speak now, our health workers are preparing to return to their various duty posts.”

    Grace Musa, a Junior Community Health Extension Worker (JCHEW) in Dangunu, confirmed this to SolaceBase.

    She said: “The wards in Munya always have relative peace from attacks once the rains start. The last time they came to abduct about 150 people, the rain fell during the attack, and they had to stay by the river bank for long before they could cross.

    “During that time, we were calling security, even the Chairman was calling security and the government, but nobody came until they finally crossed and took the people they abducted away.

    “Government should do more in terms of security.”

    The deteriorating security situation has led to widespread calls for more proactive measures from the government. Findings showed that after several attacks that left soldiers and other security personnel dead or injured, security forces are increasingly reluctant to take up watch in the affected communities.

    As a result, security presence is more concentrated in the local government headquarters than in the communities where the attacks occur.

    In August 2023, the Nigerian Defence Headquarters said at least three military officers and 22 soldiers have been killed and seven seriously injured by suspected terrorists in Niger State.

    In May 2024, four members of the Joint Security Taskforce stationed in Kuchi community in Munya Local Government Area were killed when terrorists invaded the community.

    The chairman, Munya LGA, Mallam Najume, expressed frustration over the lack of effective security intervention. “These people usually come from Kaduna State to operate in Niger State and return. They move in their hundreds, yet the security agents don’t see them,” he said.

    A cross-section of health workers who spoke with SolaceBase urged the state government to bolster security and provide resources to ensure their safety.

    “We keep hearing that the government is doing a lot, but we are not seeing anything. The government needs to take more proactive measures because the whole of Shiroro local government is affected.

    “The Niger State Governor needs to take the security of this area seriously,” Yakubu emphasised.

    Shashere highlighted the need for proactive responses from security personnel during attacks. “If the security personnel are proactive whenever there are attacks and respond immediately, the bandits would not attack so often,” he said.

    He further stated: “The government and security agents need to be proactive. When these people (bandits) come the first and second time and the security agents deal with them, they will not attempt a third attack.

    “These attacks have continued because there are no security agents on the ground.

    “The government should also provide the security personnel with the necessary weapons, logistics and mobilization required for them to carry out their work.”

    Erena said the solution to this challenge lies in the hands of the government because they control the security forces and can provide the necessary directives.

    “We are relying on the government to provide more security to us all, especially Allawa community, which is a total no-go area as all security personnel there have been withdrawn.

    “We know the government is doing its best, but they need to double their efforts in providing security so that the people can live freely and access optimal health services.”

    Lawal Mohammed, the health focal officer for Gusoro/Zumba Ward, emphasised the need for better support for health workers.

    “Apart from the government being proactive in the area of security, health workers need to be provided with vehicles and motorcycles to help them escape faster when there is an attack.

    “In addition, there is a need for professional training of health workers on safety and how they can respond to different types of hostile situations.”

    This SolaceBase publication is produced with support from the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ) under the collaborative Media Engagement for Development, Inclusion, and Accountability Project (CMEDIA) funded by the MacArthur Foundation.

  • Oyo police recover N16m, AK-47, 1,346 live ammunition from suspected criminals

    Oyo police recover N16m, AK-47, 1,346 live ammunition from suspected criminals

    The Oyo State Police Command on Friday, July 19, said it has recovered N16 million cash, 1,346 live ammunition, and two AK-47 riffles from suspected criminals in the state.

    It added that items recovered from the suspects include Exotic cars, illicit drugs, locally made guns, mobile phones, sharp cutlasses, jackknives, and Bajaj motorcycles among others.

    The suspects, according to the Commissioner of Police in the state, Ayodele Sonubi, were arrested at different locations across the state through efforts of the command’s tactical teams.

    Speaking while parading the suspects at the Command Headquarters, Eleyele, Ibadan, the police boss said a total of 41 suspects were arrested for various crimes including kidnapping, armed robbery, muderer and car snatching among others.

    Read Also; Retired Supreme Court Justice Augie, senior lawyers condemn indecent dressing of lawyers

    He revealed that among the suspects were members of a notorious kidnapping syndicate responsible for the abduction of several individuals in the state.

    He stated: “Today, we are glad to give account of our stewardship as we have arrested (41) Male suspects for committing various crimes and offences including; Ritual Killing, Kidnapping, Armed Robbery and Murders.

    “Also recovered are; Exotic vehicles, (2) Two Ak-47 rifles, (1,346) one thousand, three hundred and forty-six thousand pieces of 7.62 live rounds of ammunition and (N16,000,000) Sixteen million naira only amongst other recoveries. If you see something, say something and the Police will immediately do something.”

    He assured the public that the command would continue to work tirelessly to rid the state of criminals and ensure the safety of residents.

    He, however, appealed to members of the public to provide the police with useful information that could lead to the arrest of more criminals.

  • Rebranding police as a people’s force

    Rebranding police as a people’s force

    In a decisive move to reform the Nigerian Police Force, a landmark gathering in Nasarawa State marked a crucial milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to bolster security and rebuild community trust. Under the guidance of Governor Abdullahi Sule, Minister Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim led transformative town hall sessions aimed at reshaping law enforcement. Emphasizing robust reforms and global standards, these meetings underscored a new commitment to a community-focused policing approach, reports Associate Editor ADEKUNLE YUSUF

    In Nasarawa State, amid the bustling activities at the Aliyu Akwe Doma Banquet Hall, a transformative dialogue took place. Led by Nigeria’s first female Police Minister, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, the gathering marked a pivotal moment in the nation’s quest for enhanced security and community trust. Nasarawa State recently played host to the Minister of State for Police Affairs, Sulaiman-Ibrahim, as she embarked on her mission to redefine the role of the Nigerian Police Force through a series of town hall engagements. These sessions, aimed at fostering robust reforms and aligning the force with global standards, underscored her commitment to a people-centric approach in law enforcement.

    Governor Abdullahi Sule, flanked by a diverse assembly of political figures, traditional rulers, civil society advocates and community leaders, set the stage for a candid exchange on strengthening policing practices in Nigeria. Against a backdrop of mounting security challenges and public scrutiny, Sulaiman-Ibrahim’s initiatives seek to restore public confidence in law enforcement while empowering communities to play an active role in their own safety. “The Nigerian Police Force stands at a critical juncture,” remarked Sulaiman-Ibrahim, her voice resonating with conviction as she addressed the attentive gathering. “We envision a force that not only protects but actively collaborates with the communities it serves. Our town hall engagements are more than just forums—they are platforms for genuine dialogue, where every voice matters in shaping the future of our nation’s security.”

    Central to the discourse were strategic reforms, designed to equip officers with the tools and training needed to meet evolving security threats while upholding human rights and professional standards. Her advocacy for community policing models and technological integration aims to bridge the gap between law enforcement agencies and the populace, fostering a symbiotic relationship built on trust and mutual respect. In a continuation of her ground-breaking initiative, Sulaiman-Ibrahim journeyed to Nasarawa State, following the success of the inaugural town hall held in Lagos under the auspices of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. With resolute determination, she embarked on a mission to further shape the future of law enforcement in Nigeria through inclusive dialogue and strategic reform. The second edition of the Citizens Town Hall engagement resonated with purpose and promise.

    A deviation from the past

    In stark contrast to past administrations, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s tenure marks a decisive departure from mere rhetoric to proactive measures in addressing security challenges. This shift is driven by the dynamic and strategic approach of the Minister of Police Affairs, who advocates for a security strategy that prioritizes community input in safeguarding citizens. The Minister underscored this approach during the recent event, emphasising that the core of the Renewed Hope Police Agenda lies in implementing a community policing strategy tailored to local nuances. This approach ensures inclusivity and ownership among diverse community members and stakeholder groups.

    Explaining the choice of Nasarawa for the next Town Hall engagement, Sulaiman-Ibrahim highlighted the state’s unique security landscape. “Nasarawa State stands out due to its diverse and rapidly growing population,” she noted. “Its significant mineral resources attract local and international interest, while its proximity to the Federal Capital Territory offers socio-economic opportunities alongside security challenges. The state’s numerous tertiary institutions and large communities of Fulani herdsmen and farmers further add to its distinct security dynamics.”

    Governor Abdullahi Sule echoed the importance of collaborative efforts in enhancing security measures, affirming Nasarawa’s pivotal role in advancing the agenda for a revitalized Nigerian Police Force. Together, they are forging a path towards a safer and more prosperous Nigeria, where community engagement serves as the cornerstone of effective policing.

    “Despite these complexities, Nasarawa State has demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of challenges. The Renewed Hope Police Agenda for Nasarawa State, therefore, seeks to build on local efforts while supporting the existing collaborations that have made Nasarawa a shining example of effective security measures within the North Central Region. Security is local, and we must acknowledge and embrace the unique dynamics of each community in our pursuit of a safer nation. This Town hall is, therefore, part of an extensive series of Town hall engagements across the country to catalyze a grassroots understanding of security dynamics and foster community-specific solutions. Recognising that security is inherently local, our approach must reflect an appreciation for the distinct characteristics, challenges, and strengths of each community.”

    Foundational pillars that forms strategic framework

    Six foundational pillars serve as strategic frameworks meticulously crafted to redefine and fortify the Nigeria Police Force, with the recent gathering providing the minister and her team invaluable insights from diverse perspectives and experiences. Central to the citizens’ town hall engagement is the commitment to harness cutting-edge technology and refine operational protocols. This initiative aims to elevate the capabilities of Police Personnel across sectoral policing domains including Air, Marine, Transport, and Border management, ensuring enhanced effectiveness.

    Addressing comprehensive standardisation, upgrade and modernisation of police stations, barracks, and training schools is pivotal. The Minister emphasises the necessity for modern infrastructure to bolster operational efficiency within the Nigeria Police Force. A robust support system, encompassing healthcare measures, pension administration, retirement benefits, housing provisions, remuneration and essential work tools and gear, stands at the core of the administration’s strategy to enhance the physical, mental, psychological, and financial well-being of the men and women of the Police Force.

    However, the efficacy of these measures hinges significantly on the establishment of a legally backed national policing policy. Already in development, this policy aims to rebuild public trust and ensure adherence to the highest standards of professionalism and accountability within the Nigeria Police Force.

    This pillar underscores the critical role of fostering a symbiotic relationship between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. Through collaborative partnerships within the community, citizen engagement is enhanced, and public trust is fortified. Central to this approach is a focused effort on Re-branding, Strategic Communication, and Public Trust Management. Sulaiman-Ibrahim highlighted the launch of a strategic branding campaign aimed at cultivating a positive and contemporary image for the Nigeria Police Force. In collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Development, she initiated the “Young and Secure Initiative.” This initiative seeks to strengthen national security by fostering collaboration between the youth and the police, thus promoting a safer and more cohesive society. “We are working to ensure active engagement with citizens and effective management of public trust through transparent and accountable practices.”

    On his part, Governor Sule stated that there are fundamentals that challenge the security of the state. “We have very diverse communities that are rapidly expanding and therefore shrinking communal land for agriculture; we have a significant mineral deposit that is attracting a lot of interest locally and internationally; we are in close proximity to the FCT, which puts pressure on us as a host to a large number of workers in the FCT; we are also host to a large number of Fulani herdsmen community. Despite these complexities, we have shown great resilience and have managed to create a stable and secure environment through our collective efforts and strategic initiatives.”

    Read Also: IGP to policemen: be honest, transparent

    He highlighted significant strides in enhancing community participation in security governance through the inclusion of the Traditional Council in the State Security Council. This integration has facilitated a robust network of intelligence gathering from local communities, enabling proactive measures against emerging threats. “While our strategy has shown effectiveness,” Governor Sule remarked, “there remains ample room for improvement.” He emphasised the Town Hall meeting as a pivotal platform for exploring new ideas, gathering invaluable insights, and fostering a united approach to ensure the safety and security of Nasarawa State.

    “Policing is resource-intensive, and we are committed to providing continuous support to the Nigeria Police Force and other security institutions to ensure they have the necessary resources to effectively carry out their duties,” Governor Sule affirmed. “I also call on the private sector and individuals with the means to contribute towards enhancing our security infrastructure and capabilities. We must collectively recognise that a safe and secure environment benefits us all. As custodians of safety, let us unite to build a more secure and resilient society.

    “My administration is committed to supporting the ongoing police reforms of the Federal Government, and the vision of creating a world-class police force that is inclusive, intelligence-driven, technology-oriented, and community-based resonates very well with us. As the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, I pledge our continued support for all efforts to strengthen our security infrastructure. We will collaborate closely with the Ministry of Police Affairs, the Nigeria Police Force, and all relevant stakeholders to achieve our shared objectives.”

    Sulaiman-Ibrahim expressed sincere gratitude to President Tinubu “for his exceptional leadership, unwavering passion, and steadfast commitment to ensuring the security and safety of the country.” She also extended heartfelt appreciation to the governor for his outstanding hospitality and transformative vision that has propelled Nasarawa State into an era of commendable progress and heightened security, setting a notable benchmark for governance in the region. Furthermore, the minister acknowledged and appreciated the collaborative efforts of all security agencies, the traditional council, local governments, the Police Community Relations Committee, members of the State Security Council, and other critical stakeholders. Their collective contributions have been instrumental in advancing the shared security agenda of Nasarawa State.

    “Let me also specially thank the Inspector General of Police and his team for their professionalism and commitment to the full implementation of the Police Act 2020, particularly as it relates to community policing and the implementation of key reforms within the policing ecosystem. In my role as the Minister of State Police Affairs and as the First Female Minister of Police, I have made a commitment to supporting efforts aimed at delivering viable solutions to tackle the complex issues that have limited the capability of the Nigeria Police Force. I invite you all to join me as we rebuild hope, restore confidence, and redefine policing in Nigeria to meet international standards and set the benchmark for professionalism, integrity, and accountability.”

    Abia State has been selected to host the next eagerly anticipated town hall meeting, anticipated by Nigerians as a potential solution to the country’s persistent crime challenges and a means to rebuild trust between the Police Force and the populace.

  • Honouring a legacy of journalism excellence

    Honouring a legacy of journalism excellence

    Renowned journalism scholar, satirist extraordinaire, and public intellectual, Prof. Olatunji Dare, was honoured with tributes at his 80th birthday colloquium held yesterday in Lagos. Themed: ‘Dare @ 80: Same Craft, Changing Times — The Columnist as Societal Conscience,’ the event attracted top journalists and other guests. The celebration underscored Dare’s enduring legacy, his pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s journalistic landscape and his unwavering commitment to holding power accountable. Damola Kola-Dare, Timilehin Babatope and Emmanuel Chidi-Maha report

    Renowned journalism scholar, satirist extraordinaire and public intellectual, Prof Olatunji Dare, was celebrated with unstinting praise at his 80th birthday colloquium yesterday in Lagos. The event, themed: ‘Dare @ 80: Same Craft, Changing Times — The Columnist as Societal Conscience,’ drew the crème de la crème of Nigerian journalism and other guests.

    Former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba, who chaired the occasion, praised Prof Dare for his significant impact on the profession. He commended him for his intellectual contributions to critical national issues and expressed his happiness at being part of the celebration. Osoba urged journalists to always celebrate their peers, emphasising the importance of honouring colleagues while they are alive. He called on journalists to support one another and avoid rivalries, highlighting the need for unity and mutual respect within the profession.

    Osoba said it was important for the academia to continue to show more interest in the media.  “We are celebrating one of our own today. We celebrate others and tend to forget our own. Now, we are beginning to appreciate ourselves. We should celebrate people when they are alive. We have to promote ourselves. Let us always support ourselves. Rivalry should not arise. I am indeed, happy to be here and happy to be a July person,” he added.

    Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu described Dare as an elder statesman and praised him for his dedication to the growth of the media and his positive impact on society. Sanwo-Olu, represented by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, commended Dare for his enduring contributions to journalism and societal development. “I am happy to celebrate a renowned writer and cerebral scholar. His 80th birthday is worth celebrating because of his commitment to the society. I pray God will grant him good health and strength to render more service to humanity. His dedication to the growth of the media is commendable. The communication scholar has brought positive change to the society.”

    In his opening address, Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief of The Nation Newspapers, Mr. Victor Ifijeh, hailed Dare as a man with a great mind, emphasizing his significant contributions to the media industry. Ifijeh commended him for his remarkable impact and enduring dedication to journalism. He said: “For us at The Nation, he has been a guide, mentor. He knew us before we were born. He was part of the beginning; he crafted the mission statement – a masterpiece. He has been with us, holding us to keep us from falling. We cherish his interventions; these have kept us on our feet and made us stronger. No day passes without him calling to praise or rebuke us when we fall short.”

    Ifijeh also praised the humane side of Dare, saying: “He takes interest in everybody. When our reporter was abducted in Kaduna, he was concerned; he called always,  checking up for any updates till the matter was resolved.”

    President of The Nigeria Guild of Editors (NGE), Eze Anaba, said: “NGE is proud to collaborate with The Nation to honour the distinguished Prof. Dare. We are delighted to celebrate our illustrious columnist. Hitting 80 is a remarkable achievement for a man who has bestrode the journalism firmament with sturdy feet. This event is our way of saying thank you.

    “You do not pick The Guardian or The Nation without learning every Tuesday. I am jealous of The Nation’s back page because of Dare. You have something to learn. He is a world class satirist. I learnt from his writing as an editor on how to stand by your convictions.”

    Former Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Bayo Onanuga, expressed his deep admiration for the celebrant, who was his teacher. He said: “Prof. Dare was my teacher; he is a good man and continues to be a source of inspiration. I cherish his column; it is inspiring. I wish him a happy birthday and pray that God grants him the energy to continue writing. May his ink never run dry.”

    Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, represented by Ganiu Lawal, a Deputy Director in the Ministry, described Dare as one of Nigeria’s most esteemed journalists, who have consistently served as the conscience of society. He highlighted Dare’s legacy as one of innovation, dedication, and compassion. “Olatunji Dare is the Jose Mourinho of satire journalism. He detests errors. As a teacher, he would not want to sound esoteric to his students. He deserves all the accolades; he personifies humility, generosity and trust.”

    Former Managing Director of The Guardian Newspapers, Emeka Izeze, represented by Martins Oloja, immediate past Managing Director of the paper, said: “It was easy to work with him at The Guardian. He loved and enjoyed his job. He was a genuine human being. Dare was large-hearted and was never threatened by other people’s success. I wish him more years of contribution to our nation, peace and good health.”

    The panel was led by Chief Executive Officer of Diamond Publications, Mr. Lanre Idowu. He described columnists as the eyes and ears of society, emphasising the importance of continually updating their knowledge to remain relevant. He commended Dare for his unwavering commitment to holding agents of poor governance accountable. “He has influenced different generations of writers; he remains a respected member of the tribe of informed critics. He is a distinguished member of “July Media Club.” He has, through his writings, confronted agents of darkness and poor governance. We expect him to continue to serve as a fountain of wisdom.”

    Read Also: Wikileaks’ founder Julian Assange’s bittersweet win for journalism

    Sully Abu, former Managing Director of the defunct New Age Newspaper, who worked with Dare at The Guardian, described him as a man of courage and character whose management of the Editorial Board of The Guardian was magnificent. He said: “Dare is an erudite and accomplished prose stylist. He is a first-class human being with integrity. Celebrating him is an indication that we recognize those who count.”

    Prof Oloruntola Sunday of the Mass Communication Department at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) described the celebrator as an international figure who has put Kabba, his hometown, on the world map. “There’s no way you can be in his class without learning. I learned a lot from him. He is a contented and principled man,” he said.

    Top media personalities at the event included Eniola Bello, Managing Director/Editor-In-Chief of THISDAY; Tony Onyima, former Managing Director/Editor-In-Chief of The Sun Newspapers; Lekan Otufodunrin, former Online Editor of The Nation, all of whom paid glowing tributes to the renowned columnist.

    In his response via Zoom, the celebrator expressed heartfelt thanks to everyone for celebrating with him, noting his overwhelming gratitude.

    He describes his wife,Oyeronke, as the pillar behind his attainment in life.

    According to him, she stood by the family when he had no job and the family didn’t have money and stuck by his cherished principle.

    The celebrator said his wife rejected a contract that would have enriched the family but compromised what the family stood for.

     He described the accolades from associates and colleagues as priceless.

    Dare said despite winning awards and prizes, nothing is better than the encomiums showered on him at the colloquium. 

    Chairman of the Editorial Board of The Nation Newspapers, Sam Omatseye, delivered a vote of thanks, acknowledging the profound impact of the journalism teacher and extending appreciation to all attendees.

    Other notable figures present included Richard Akinnola, Managing Director of The Sun Newspapers; Onuoha Ukeh, Managing Director of New Telegraph; Ayo Aminu, Managing Director of New Telegraph; Clem Baiye; respected columnist Dare Babarinsa; Kayode Komolafe, THISDAY Ombudsman; Third Republic Chief Whip of the House of Representatives Wale Oshun, Muyiwa Adetiba, Senior Management and Editorial Staff of The Nation Newspaper; Femi Ajibade; and Lanre Arogundade of the International Press Centre, who served as the compere, among others.

  • Let the Third Tier breathe: Implications of the Supreme Court verdict

    Let the Third Tier breathe: Implications of the Supreme Court verdict

    • By Bayo Onanuga

    The Supreme Court’s judgment on July 11, granting financial autonomy to the 774 local government areas and recognising them as the third tier of Nigeria’s governance architecture, was truly historic. It was perhaps the most remarkable judgment ever delivered by the apex court in recent times, as it used its power to interpret the law to give a different meaning to Section 162 of the Constitution.

    Since 1999, governors have used this section to withhold and tamper with the funds federally allocated to the councils, using a joint account that has proven to be a honeypot of abuse.

    Last Thursday, the Supreme Court described the payment of the allocations to the account as gross misconduct and scolded the governors for dissolving democratically elected councils and setting up caretaker committees.

    The court ruled that caretaker committees are illegal and that councils run by them should not receive the federal allocation.

    Henceforth, the court ruled that the allocations should go directly to the accounts of the 774 local councils.

    Justice Emmanuel Agim, who read the lead judgment, said Nigeria runs a three-tier governance structure, where no one tier is subject to the whims and caprices of the other. He criticised the governors and the state assemblies for almost allowing the councils to go into extinction with their treatment of them.

    The judgment was generally well received by Nigerians. According to reports, the verdict ignited jubilation by workers in some local council as they sang the praises of the Tinubu administration.

    However, some Nigerians have criticised it as an ‘assault’ on Nigeria’s Federalism as it has rewritten Section 162. My simple response to this school of thought is: Must we allow the law to stand still while the local councils die? The Supreme Court also said as much: Since the governors were using the section to perpetuate unconstitutional acts, the court must ensure that the con stitution is not applied in a manner that supports its destruction.

    In acknowledging the verdict’s import, former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar described it as a win for the people. In a post on X, Atiku wrote: “The court’s ruling is a step in the right direction and a major corrective action in greasing the wheels of national development across the country…The court’s verdict is in tandem with the core functions of the Supreme Court as an arbitration court between and among governments.”

    Read Also: CITN backs Supreme Court ruling on local govt’s financial autonomy

    President Bola Tinubu, whose government instituted the case, welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision, affirming the spirit, intent, and purpose of the Constitution regarding the statutory rights of local governments.

    “My administration instituted this suit because of our unwavering belief that our people must have relief, and today’s judgment will ensure that only those local officials elected by the people will control the resources of the people. This judgment is a resounding affirmation that we can use legitimate means of redress to restructure our country and economy to make Nigeria a better place to live in and a fairer society for all of our people.”

    President Tinubu noted that the provision of some essential amenities and public goods, such as the construction and maintenance of roads, streets, street lighting, drains, parks, gardens, open spaces, and other residual responsibilities, including community security, has been abandoned owing to the emasculation of local governments.

    He said the court’s decision to grant financial autonomy to the councils and restate other constitutional principles reinforced the effort to enhance Nigeria’s true federal fabric for the development of the entire nation.

    President Tinubu and his administration deserved the praise. President Tinubu has earned double appreciation as a defender of the local councils. As governor of Lagos, he sought the intervention of the same Supreme Court to establish the right of states to create councils in compliance with the provisions of the constitution. In a reverse role, as president, he has succeeded in seeking another intervention of the apex court to establish the right of the councils to survive and perform the role envisaged by the constitution.

    Former President Muhammadu Buhari had sought to rescue the councils from the governors’ vice grip by using Executive Order 10, which he signed on May 22, 2020, to direct funds straight to the councils, the state legislature, and the judiciary. But the governors challenged his authority in a case filed at the Supreme Court. In a split judgment in 2022, the Supreme Court said President Buhari overreached his powers.

    In his lamentation while signing the executive order, President Buhari said: “If the money from the Federation Account to the state is about N100 million, N50 million will be sent to the chairman (of local government), but he (the chairman) will sign that he received N100 million. The governor will pocket the balance and share it with whoever he wants to share it with. Then, the chairman of the local government must pay salaries. Go to hell with development. When he pays salaries, he will put the balance in his pocket. This is what’s happening in Nigeria.”

    President Tinubu, his successor, sought to combat the problem constitutionally by suing the governors.

    The Attorney General and Justice Minister, Lateef Fagbemi, approached the Supreme Court in May, seeking to compel the governors of the 36 federating states to grant full autonomy to local governments in their domains in a suit marked SC/CV/343/2024. The suit, anchored on 27 grounds, accused the state governors of gross misconduct and abuse of power. He prayed that the Supreme Court would make an order stating that funds standing to the credit of local governments from the Federation Account should be paid directly to the local governments rather than through the state governments.

    The justice minister also requested an order restraining governors, their agents, and privies from receiving, spending, or tampering with funds released from the Federation Account for the benefit of local governments when no democratically elected local government system is in place in the states.

    The court granted his prayers in the landmark ruling of July 11

    President Tinubu has always been concerned about the lack of governance at the grassroots. He believes that without fixing the problems at the councils, the objective of developing the country and spreading prosperity to the 200 million people will never be achieved. After all, the councils where the 200 million people live have been financially handicapped by the governors. He made the point clearly when he met in Abuja with the leaders of the Arewa Consultative Forum on May 30, about the same period when the Justice Minister approached the Supreme Court for the correct interpretation of Section 162.

    President Tinubu, responding to the ACF’s demands for more roles by the Federal Government, urged the leaders to summon the governors. He said Nigeria, as a constitutional democracy, has not allowed the councils where we all live to flourish, citing the absurdity of politicians going to the locals for votes only to abandon them and leave for the capitals and Abuja after winning their votes.

    As Nigerians celebrate the historic judgment, it is clear that some work still needs to be done to bring life back to the councils. One issue being raised is how to ensure that the council elections are truly competitive and not predetermined by the governors and the state independent electoral commissions. To solve this, some Nigerians have urged the National Assembly to pass a law that will require only the central Independent National Electoral Commission to conduct council elections.

    The other problematic issue is the fear that governors will not allow the Supreme Court ruling to affect their domains, as they can always order the councils to send the money received from the Federal Accounts Allocation Committee back to the state coffers. Again, a solution to this possible abuse has been proffered. The EFCC, ICPC, and NFIU should prevent this by monitoring the councils’ accounts. While the governors enjoy immunity to cover their actions, the council chairmen and councilors do not have such cover as they can be arrested, tried, and jailed. The threat of arrest and prosecution can deter local political actors from collaborating with the governors.

    In conclusion, while Nigerians await the full implementation of the Supreme Court verdict, one needs to appeal to the powerful governors to allow the councils to breathe. It is in the interest of the states to allow the blossoming of the third tier of government as it was before 1999.

    Here are some of the benefits that the states should not let slip away:

    First, local governments will now have more control over their finances, which could lead to improved service delivery and governance at the grassroots level.

    Second, with greater financial autonomy, local governments can provide better services to their constituents, such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure development. This will reduce the pressure on the state government from the people expecting such minimal provisions.

    Third, the judgment could lead to greater accountability and transparency in local government administration.

    As President Tinubu remarked after the landmark ruling, “The onus is now on local council leaders to ensure that the broad spectrum of Nigerians living at that level are satisfied that they are benefiting from people-oriented service delivery.

    “The Renewed Hope Agenda is about the people of this country, at all levels, irrespective of faith, tribe, gender, political affiliation, or any other artificial line they say exists between us. This country belongs to all of us. By this judgment, our people, especially the poor, can hold their local leaders accountable for their actions and inactions. What is sent to local government accounts will be known, and services must now be provided without excuses.

    •  Onanuga is a Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Information and Strategy
  • Why governors should align with President Tinubu on council autonomy

    Why governors should align with President Tinubu on council autonomy

    By Tunde Rahman

    Governors have been acting tongue-in-cheek in their reactions to last Thursday’s verdict of the Supreme Court, which stripped them of their suffocating grip over the money meant for local government areas.

    As a collective, the governors unreservedly endorsed the judgment. The Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRazak AbdulRahman who spoke on behalf of the governors said the forum welcomed the apex court’s ruling granting financial autonomy to the councils, describing the verdict as a relief from the burden on the governors.

    Addressing State House Correspondents on the matter after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja on Friday, Governor AbdulRazak was flanked by the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress Governors’ Forum, Hope Uzodimma and the Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum, Dr Bala Mohammed, suggesting they were all in agreement with Governor AbdulRasak in his pronouncement.

    “Our Attorney-General has applied for the enrolment order, which we will study carefully. But by and large, governors are happy with the devolution of power in respect of local government autonomy. It relieves the burden on governors. Our people don’t know how much states expend in bailing out local governments and that’s the issue there,” Governor AbdulRasak said; adding that his government in Kwara State had never tampered with local government funds.

    However, it was learnt that the governors were not happy with the decision of the Federal Government to take them to court and are merely playing to the gallery.

    For instance, a few days after the NGF Chairman spoke, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde who is of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, described the case as a distraction. He questioned the sustainability of local governments receiving allocations from the Federal Government.

    The governor said to members of the Nigerian Union of Journalists in Ibadan, Oyo State: “They said there is a judgment of the Supreme Court on local government autonomy. I think it is just a distraction. We must face the real issue that we have. The issue that we have is that we are not producing enough. We are not productive. Maybe it may be part of the problem. We want to have value for what is being shared but our problem is productivity.”

    Arguably, it is customary in our clime for an opposition governor to toe a different path from that of the President from a different party. However, the opposition of state governors to local council financial autonomy has never been in doubt. It has always been vainly concealed. In a report in The Punch Newspaper of January 25, 2023, state houses of assemblies in Nigeria had rejected nine constitutional amendment bills, including the proposed legislation for financial and administrative autonomy for local government councils. The state assemblies were believed to have done so at the promptings of their governors who exert considerable influence over legislative processes at the state level. The rejected bills were part of the bills that the National Assembly transmitted to them for concurrence.

    The National Assembly had, in March 2022, voted on 68 bills aimed at further amending the 1999 Constitution. At the end of the exercise, 44 of the bills were approved by both the Senate and the House of Representatives and transmitted to the state assemblies for concurrence. A simple majority of votes was required in at least two-thirds of state assemblies (24 out of 36) for the amendments to sail through and the amendments that sail through would then be sent to the President for assent.

    The Senate, in a motion by the then Chairman of the Senate ad-hoc committee on Constitution Review, Ovie Omo-Agege said during plenary that 27 out of the 36 state assemblies had forwarded their resolutions on the constitution amendment bills to the National Assembly. Presenting his committee report, Omo-Agege said 35 bills satisfied constitutional provision, having been approved by not less than 24 state assemblies. Nine bills could not scale through. Prominent among the bills voted against by the state parliaments was the one seeking to grant financial and administrative autonomy to the country’s local governments. Also among the bills that did not sail through are the ones seeking the abrogation of state-local government joint account and establishment of local government as a tier of government, meaning a majority of the state assemblies, and by extension the governors, never wanted local governments to have absolute freedom.

    It’s perhaps, in realisation of this, and the overarching need for local governments to be financially empowered to cater to the challenges at the grassroots that President Tinubu took upon himself the crusade for financial autonomy for the local governments. He mandated the Attorney-General of the Federation and Justice Minister, Chief Lateef Fagbemi, (SAN), to institute a case against the governors at the Supreme Court. This is with a view to reinforcing democratic principles through full financial powers and effective devolution of power to the councils and ensuring genuine representation at the grassroots through periodic elections.

    In the suit, the Federal Government sought the enforcement of full autonomy of local governments and also for an order prohibiting state governors from embarking on unilateral, arbitrary and unlawful dissolution of democratically-elected local government chairmen, and constituting caretaker committees in their place. It also asked the court to make an order permitting the funds meant for the LGs to be directly channelled to them from the Federation Account in line with the provisions of the constitution as against how the governors take advantage of Section 162 (6) at the detriment of the local governments.

    Read Also: Why governors should align with President Tinubu on LG autonomy, by Tunde Rahman

    The Supreme Court’s verdict was very emphatic and unequivocal. All the reliefs sought by the Federal Government were granted. The apex court ordered direct payment of council allocations, saying the 774 local councils in the federation should manage their funds without interference or deduction from any quarter.

    According to the apex court, it is unconstitutional for state governors to retain and utilise local government statutory allocations paid through them. The seven-man panel of the court led by Justice Emmanuel Agim also declared that a state has no power to appoint a caretaker committee, while it is mandatory for a local government council to be democratically governed.

    “In this case since paying them through states has not worked, the justice of this case demands that the local government allocations from the Federation Account should henceforth be paid directly to the councils,” the apex court ruled.

    On the dissolution of democratically-elected councils and appointments of caretaker committees by governors, Justice Agim held that it is a mandatory duty of the state governments or governors, under Section 7 (1) of the Constitution, to ensure their existence. “A democratically-elected local government is sacrosanct and non-negotiable,” the court added.

    This landmark judgment is a critical step forward. It has now become imperative for the governors to file behind President Tinubu in ensuring that local councils become an independent and self-governing tier of government. The governors’ buy-in is important because when the chips are down, the state chief executives will still play an influential role in the election of local government chairmen. The governors must understand that to ensure genuine grassroots development and further strengthen our democracy, the local governments must be empowered financially.

    This is part of the democratic re-engineering and restructuring the nation yearns for.

    Indeed, not a few Nigerians are looking forward to the restructuring of the country under this president, given his antecedents. Apart from his numerous struggles for the entrenchment of democracy in the land, even as governor (1999-2007), he fought many battles with then President Olusegun Obasanjo on matters bordering on true federalism. Many would recall the issue of creation of 37 additional local governments in Lagos State during which he dragged the Federal Government to Supreme Court when President Obasanjo stopped the federal allocation to the state. In its ruling, the Supreme Court okayed the process leading to the creation of the councils and described the creation of the 37 new councils as legal, but declared them as inchoate because they had not been listed in the constitution as local government areas. Asíwájú Tinubu’s ingenuity came to play with the new councils becoming Local Council Development Areas. Today, these LCDAs have helped to expand the frontiers of development in Lagos.

    There is also the matter of ownership of lands and granting of development plans in the states. Asiwaju Tinubu as Lagos governor filed a case at the Supreme Court to determine who had the power to control urban and regional planning in a state. Two of the issues determined were: whether the ownership rights of the federal Government over land in state territories include the power to control and regulate town planning and physical development in relation to such land.

    Whether all approvals, permits, and licences granted by the 1st defendant (Federal Government) or any of its agencies for any construction, building or physical development, or use of land in Lagos without the consent of the plaintiff is not illegal, null and void. The Supreme Court granted the state’s power to grant building approvals and other development plans in the states where such federally-acquired lands are domiciled while not denying the Federal Government the right to also acquire lands in the states.

    For President Tinubu, restructuring has indeed begun. The President has been working to reinforce existing laws, promoting their judicial interpretation and, in some cases, outright amendments in a bid to strengthen democracy and engender fiscal federalism. It is a measure of his commitment to restructuring that one of the first bills he signed into law as the country’s President was the Electricity Act 2023, which he signed on June 6, 2023, barely eighth day in office, marking a significant milestone in the sector. The new law focuses on enhancing the regulation and management of the electricity value chain with the active participation of the sub-national governments. This, thus far, has resulted in the process of devolution of regulatory powers to three states – Enugu, Ekiti, and Ondo – to set up their electricity markets.

    Importantly, the Nigerian Fiscal Policy and Tax Reform Committee led by Mr. Taiwo Oyedele is still busy working on comprehensive tax reforms, including reforms to the country’s value-added tax (VAT) and other taxes that will restructure the system and further advance fiscal federalism in the end.

    There is still more work to be done on the issue of local government autonomy.. Like the state governors, the National Assembly must take concrete legislative actions to support the vision. The laws governing local government elections must be reworked to transfer the responsibility of conducting these elections to the Independent National Electoral Commission as opposed to the state independent electoral authorities, which are only independent in name. This legislative initiative is crucial to eliminating the undue influence of state governors over the local government election process and ensuring the integrity of the polls. This change will be a significant move in complementing President Tinubu and Supreme Court’s efforts towards achieving genuine local government autonomy and enhancing democratic governance in Nigeria.

    Speaking when he hosted some Yoruba elders on April 16, 2024 at the Presidential Villa, President Tinubu had pointed out that the matter of restructuring would be systematic, saying when the economy is properly on a firm footing, steps would be taken on restructuring so that it will be on a solid footing.

     “As I said in Akure, our approach to it would be as if a baby is learning how to walk. If the baby is rushed, it will fall,” he had said.

    •  Rahman is a Senior Presidential Aide
  • Sanwo-Olu decries unhygienic practices

    Sanwo-Olu decries unhygienic practices

    Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu yesterday berated residents for abusing the environment and vandalism of public infrastructure, especially those guarding against flooding.

    He spoke at a sensitisation programme to herald the reintroduction of the monthly environmental sanitation.

    The programme, held at the Campos Mini Stadium, Lagos Island, is the first of others to come, according to the governor.

    It also coincided with the 2024 Tree Planting Day, with the theme: ‘Nurture our Future’.

    The governor expressed disappointment that public infrastructure and facilities, which should safeguard the environment, are being vandalised, especially manholes that should drain water off the roads, thereby preventing flooding, have been removed from some roads on the Island.

    He warned that henceforth, whoever is caught will face the wrath of the law.

    He said: “Cleanliness is next to Godliness. We cannot watch our environment debased. Our hospitals are full due to our unhygienic environment caused by the carefree attitude of residents.

    “We monitored the environment earlier in the day and saw indiscriminate dumping of refuse in canals, manholes already removed from roads; this environmental nuisance is unacceptable. It’s a shame that our people engage in vandalising public infrastructure despite government’s efforts and huge funding. This kind of people do not deserve to be among us.

    “The Ministry of the Environment will set up units that will address the situation, while environmental offenders will face the full weight of the law when caught.

    “The era of uncleanliness is over in Lagos, that’s why we are kicking off this sensitisation/advocacy campaign today from Lagos Island. This must start from homes, schools, markets, offices. Government cannot do it alone, we have to work together.

    “It is our goal to further educate residents on the need to take ownership of their environment and ensure they continuously clean their surroundings, dispose waste responsibly while acknowledging that we must sustain this as our own contribution towards maintaining a sustainable environment.

    “From next Saturday, we will begin sensitisation programmes where we will be on the road cleaning and desilting water channels weekly. After an exhaustive sensitisation, enlightenment and advocacy, we will then make it a law to be done monthly to ensure we improve the cleanliness of our environment of a state we are proud of.”

    Governor Sanwo-Olu said about 200,000 waste bins have been procured for refuse management and will be distributed to communities soon, while LAWMA will share waste bags of different colours and sizes across the metropolis to enhance proper waste disposal that will also complement measures in preventing diseases.

  • Kelechi Oghene: Discipline, structure fundamental to my success

    Kelechi Oghene: Discipline, structure fundamental to my success

    Princess Kelechi Oghene’s beautiful face has graced many billboards and calendars across the country as the brand ambassador for Orange Drugs. She has since grown to become a fashion mogul after taking a big leap into fashion and modelling when she established her GMYT fashion empire. In this interview with OLAITAN GANIU, she talks about her business, success, achievements, and impact on society.

    There are economic challenges and it’s biting hard at businesses, how have you been faring?

    Our resilience is due to our adaptive business strategies, which include diversification, continuous upskilling, and technological advancement, enabling us to navigate economic fluctuations successfully.

    What’s the most challenging moment since your debut in your industry?

    Maintaining accountability and standard practices is a significant challenge in our industry. It’s difficult to find professionals who uphold high standards of professionalism and adhere to strict operating systems. This challenge is crucial because you can’t build a successful business without structure and discipline. Actually, here at GMYT Fashion Academy, we emphasize these values, ensuring our students understand the importance of professionalism and consistency. This commitment has been a cornerstone of our success and a constant challenge in the industry.

     Do you still set trends in the fashion world with activities in the academy?

    Absolutely, here at GMYT Fashion Academy, we set trends with our innovative and comprehensive curriculum. Our activities include lookbook presentations where students showcase their work through mini-modeling presentations and visual portfolios. We offer courses that go beyond national standards, covering every integral aspect of the fashion industry. Our rigorous, all-encompassing curriculum ensures our students are well-prepared to lead and innovate. As a leading fashion academy in the country, we continuously update our courses to stay ahead of industry trends.

     How do you balance this with the home front?

    I believe in and practice SMART Goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This approach prevents me from getting overwhelmed and helps me manage my time effectively. By setting clear goals, I ensure that my professional and personal responsibilities are balanced. This principle, which I teach at GMYT Fashion Academy, helps our students and myself achieve more without compromising on quality or efficiency. It’s demanding, but SMART Goals make it manageable.

    Looking back, what did you do to help get to where you are today?

    Discipline and structure have been fundamental to my success. Having a solid, well-defined system for how things are done and maintaining high standards are crucial. If you don’t know who you are, others will define you.

     I have always been clear about my values and the standards I uphold. This clarity has been one of the key factors that got me through various challenges and helped me stand out in the industry. This is one of the many cultures championed fully at GMYT Fashion Academy and we instill these values in our students and overall community, preparing them to excel in their careers.

    Read Also; ‘How friendship landed us in jail, kept us on death row for 24 years’

    Could you share some of the memories of founding GMYT Fashion Academy

    Founding GMYT Fashion Academy has been a profound journey driven by passion, vision, and resilience. Established to set a sustainable standard in African fashion education, we are dedicated to moulding the next generation of fashion entrepreneurs. By equipping our students—especially women and youth—with necessary skills and business acumen, we are shaping the industry leaders of tomorrow.

    Since inception, GMYT Fashion Academy has proudly seen over 12,000 graduates who now helm successful fashion brands, clinch international awards, and shine on global platforms. Their achievements underscore the impact of our rigorous training and mentorship.

    You kicked off GAHAWARDS 12 years ago, what was the purpose?

    GAHAWARDS was initiated to honour outstanding social impact, innovation, and boundary-pushers worldwide. This annual celebration recognizes those who inspire societal change and global progress. The upcoming GAHAWARDS will broaden its horizon, recognizing trailblazers across diverse sectors. With a focus on global impact, we welcome partnerships that align with our mission of fostering excellence and social responsibility.

    What is CEIBS Certification and what impact does it have?

    Earning a Global Business Strategy certification from CEIBS has refined my strategic acumen and broadened my global business perspective, empowering me to better mentor aspiring entrepreneurs and enrich our community’s business capabilities.

    …and LBS Global perspective in Business?

    The Global Perspective in Business program, championed by LBS, has significantly influenced my approach to global business strategy. This experience has equipped me with advanced insights and tools to navigate international markets, enhance strategic decisions, and mentor young entrepreneurs effectively.

     How well have you inspired the next generation?

    My role as a leader is to embody discipline, structure, and proactive pursuit of excellence. I mentor the youth to seize their potential, emphasising that they are sufficient and capable of creating opportunities.

    The GMYT Fashion Academy is committed to providing a platform for young talents through top-tier fashion education, practical experience, and a supportive network that propels them to achieve their dreams.

     How do you sustain your vision and values through talent?

    Our success is not only about identifying the right talent but also about cultivating a robust organisational structure where discipline and excellence thrive. This strategic approach ensures sustainability and growth.

    What are your future ventures and aspirations?

    Looking ahead, I am excited about expanding GMYT Fashion Academy’s influence further into the international fashion and business scene. Our goal is to platform the extraordinary talents we nurture and to foster partnerships that promote innovation and excellence in the fashion industry.