Life unfair to me at old age, septuagenarian mother laments
The auto crash that recently claimed the life of a 48 -year-old Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) deacon, Olusola Joshua Sowole, who was also an employee of United Parcel Service (UPS) in Atlanta Georgia, United States has left the family devastated, reports Taiwo Abiodun, who visited the mother of the deceased in Colorado, Denver, USA.
The sad news of Deacon Olusola Joshua Sowole who died in an auto crash recently in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, was shocking not only to his immediate family members, the Redeem Christian Church of God (RCCG) members in Atlanta Georgia and co- workers but also to his aged mother who was also in America preparing for her birthday when tragedy struck.
The deceased’s wife, Rachel Bolade’s voice was laden with emotion as she spoke with the reporter in cracking voice, saying the whole incident still appeared to her like a dream.
Rachael said: ”I still cannot believe this tragedy. I was shocked beyond words. I cried and cried but my tears could not wake him up.
”He worked as a Safety and Compliance Specialist at UPS and went to work around 2:30 am.
“I recall that on that fateful morning, I received a call at 5am from Grady Memorial Hospital that my husband was involved in a car accident.
“On getting to the hospital, they broke the bad news to me.
”I saw his lifeless body lying as if he was asleep. His identity card was on him.
“Even when the accident happened, his watch called 911. His watch also sent me a text message which he saved as Emergency Contact.
“His phone sent me a text message that he was involved in an accident, but I didn’t see the text until morning because I was sleeping when he left for work.”
Asked whether she had any premonition of Sowole’s death, Rachel said she never had any
Providing insight into what actually transpired, Rachael said ”it was reported that the other driver wrongly drove on one way on the highway, facing my late husband who was rightly in his lane, and this led to a head-on collision.
“It happened between 3 am and 3:30 am.The remains of my late husband were interred in Resthaven of Memory, Decatur, Georgia.”
Asked why they did not bring his remains back to Nigeria, she said ”there is no sense in taking his remains home.” She also declined making any comment on the errant driver of the opposite vehicle, saying that the matter was being investigated by the police.
She would also not comment on the possibility of her husband or the opposite driver being under the influence of alcohol when the accident occurred, saying: ”My husband had never smoked or taken alcohol since I knew him.
“He was a Deacon in the Redeemed Christian Church of God, FamilyPraise Chapel Decacur, Atlanta Georgia here.
“He was a mentor to many, especially the Young Excited Soldiers (Y.E.S) youths and the young adults (Hydration team John 7;37)”
The mother of the late Deacon, whose hair is as white as snow, was met by the reporter reading some marked Bible passages from her Apple iPad in her bedroom. Her eyes were heavy.
Intermittently, she heaved a heavy sigh, shook her head or soliloquize.
She paused several times as she read the Bible verses aloud. The moment she sighted the reporter, she had removed her reading glasses and gazed at the wall.
“You mean I would never see my son again? Is this how life is supposed to treat me? It is unfair to have this kind of experience in my old age.
“I am in pains and total sorrow. Why did death not take me away instead of my son?” she sobbed.
Her questions would not be answered by the wall while the reporter could only tell her to take heart and that God knows best.
Intermittently, her daughter, Abosede, and her husband, Dayo, whom she stayed with, would come in to check on the distraught septuagenarian in her room and console her.
Abosede, elder sister to the deceased Deacon, said the news of her brother’s death was shocking. She said she had to call her pastor to help break the news to their mother, who lives with her in Colorado.
“I didn’t want an outsider to break the news to her so I called my pastor and some elders to come and talk to her. I even called those who know our movement,” she said.
Recalling some of their last moments together, the distraught mother of the late Deacon said: ”I called my late son on the 15th of August, we exchanged greetings and I asked after his welfare. We spoke till 10 o’ clock in the evening until my daughter came to me.
“There are some of members of his church who always sent me gifts. So I asked after all his church members.
”I reminded him that they should not do anything elaborate for my birthday but to give me money to send to the needy in Nigeria.
“I even called his wife and told her not to send anything to me in December, the Christmas period, but to send money to me to give to some Nigerians who are in need.
“I don’t know why death did not take me in place of my son.”
On how she received the news of her son’s death, she said: “My son-inlaw, Dayo, came to me and asked what I would eat. When it was 9pm, he asked me to go in.
“Later, they systematically seized my phone. Suddenly, I saw our church pastor who came unannounced. Then many other people were coming in one after the other.
“I asked what was the matter, they then broke the ugly news to me. I am very very sad.”
Born on December 11, 1974 into the family of Johnson Adeoye Sowole and Cecelia Sowole in Ijebu-Isara, Ogun State, the late Deacon was a Theatre Arts graduate of Lagos State University (LASU).
He later relocated to Atlanta Georgia where he bagged his master’s in Business and Health Care Administration in South University in June, 2018. At the time of his passing, he was a Safety and Compliance Specialist at UPS in Atlanta Georgia.
He was married to his heartthrob, Rachael, who had two boys for him.
A church member, Temiloluwa who does not want her surname in print, wrote: ”Pastor Joshua’s smile reached his eyes. There was something about him that quickly put people at ease. He got along so well with all age groups at church: the children, the teenagers and the young adults especially.
“Most people would tell you about his warm hugs that gave comfort and encouragement. He was God’s planting at RCCG Family Praise Chapel, the father, mentor and role model that God used to inspire us all to good works.”
Another Church member wrote in the tribute that Pastor Joshua was many things rolled into one. “He was our youth pastor, which is why many of us call him Pastor Joshua; a dedicated worker, an organiser and a servant leader who impacted every area of this church.
“But we in the drama ministry had the honour and privilege of knowing him as a creative person.
“Pastor Joshua was anointed by God with many talents: he was an actor, a director, a writer, a host/MC, a comedian, a dancer, a singer, a producer and a cinematographer.”
A member of Hydration Department and one of his co-workers at UPS, Michelle (surname withheld), wrote: ”I am honoured to have met and worked with you at UPS and I am saddened to hear of your passing. I will never forget how rewarding our conversations about Africa, God, work and society were, and I thank you for being both my brother and friend.
“I will most definitely say your name when I journey to Africa. Rest on my brother.”
His elder sister, Abosede, described his brother as a special human being who was caring and loved everybody.
She said: ”I will miss him, my family will miss him, the church will miss him. He was our family pillar. Our mother cries every day here in Colorado, and we always console her.
“But what can we do? We cannot query God. He knows best.”
Roland Ifedayo Kayode (JOKS), an in-law to the deceased, described the late Deacon as a man of impeccable character.
He said: ”My late brother-in-law was a Deacon in RCCG. He used to come here to see her mother in Colorado. He called his mother on the phone almost every day while my wife, his sister, called him every day too.
“I am completely down and confused as I ask myself why do good people die early?”
In her tribute, Rachael, his wife, wrote: ”Hmmmmmmm. Olusola mi (my Olusola), I do not know how to write this, but I will try my best.
“My dear husband, you left us unexpectedly after a ghastly car accident by a wrong-way driver. You were the only man I have ever known because when I met you in 1999…… I knew I need not to look any further.
“Thank you for the brief time we spent together as a family. You showed me what true love meant. You would never say no whenever I asked you for anything.
“Thank you for embedding such Godly principles into our boys….I remember my 40th birthday, how you celebrated my birthday for five days with different activities and unforgettable surprises.
“Last week, you asked me what I wanted for our wedding anniversary on September 1… Sweetheart if tears could bring you back you would have been back.
“I love you more than words could express.You were the true definition of a complete man.You made marrying you a blliss.
“Life can never be the same without my loving husband, However, I take solace in knowing that you are in the bosom of the Lord.”
It is rare to find females in the Computer Engineering industry. But in an instance of departure from the norm, Moshood Kausar, the best graduating student of Oduduwa University, Ipetumodu, Osun State, shares her story with GBENGA ADERANTI as to why she ventured into the field.
HOW was your journey into Oduduwa University?
My journey into OUI was quite unexpected, as attending a private university was never in my plans. Upon graduating from secondary school and waiting for acceptance from a Federal University, the process seemed to be taking longer than expected. One Sunday morning, my dad switched the TV channel to LTV, and an advertisement for ongoing admissions caught our attention. Jotting down the contact number displayed, we headed to Egbeda the next day to obtain the admission form. I took the screening test on a Thursday and received my admission letter, marking the beginning of my journey as a student at OUI.
How many times did you do UTME and what were your scores?
I took the UTME twice. The first attempt was during my SS2 year, resulting in a score of 245. The second attempt took place in my SS3 year, with a lower score of 205.
At what point did you decide to opt for OUI?
I chose to enroll at OUI primarily because it was a private university with tuition fees that were manageable for my parents. Additionally, I reached out to various students already studying at the university, and they all attested that the quality of education offered was very high.
Why did you decide to opt for Computer Engineering?
To be honest, I never initially considered studying Computer Engineering. When I visited the admission office, I inquired about the availability of Medicine or Nursing courses. However, as Nursing wasn’t offered at the time, I randomly selected Computer Engineering, considering my prior exposure to computer training. Little did I know that there was more to the field beyond my previous computer training experiences.
What were the reactions of your friends and parents to your choice of course and school?
My parents desired the best for me, and surprisingly, they did not express any complaints or objections. They believed it was my decision to make and wanted me to select a course in which I would excel, rather than one imposed on me by them.
Computer Engineering is a field dominated by men. Why were you attracted to it and what can you do differently in the field?
I believe the dominance of males in the field of Computer Engineering might stem from the perception that engineering, in general, is a demanding and challenging domain tailored for men. While I once shared this belief, I decided to take the initiative to delve deeper into the subject and challenge myself to understand its complexities, striving to prove that these stereotypes could be overcome.
Were there sacrifices you had to make to emerge as the best graduating student?
Emerging as the best graduating student was not a fleeting accomplishment but rather a five-year-long journey fueled by unwavering determination and passion. Inspired by the achievement of a lady who graduated from Afe Babalola University with a perfect CGPA of 5.0, I silently vowed to attain the same. Although I couldn’t reach that exact goal, I dedicated myself to each course, striving to push my limits and maintain exceptionally high standards throughout my academic journey.
During my time in school, my routine was structured around attending classes regularly, frequenting the library, and seeking additional guidance from my professors during their available hours whenever I faced challenges with specific topics, even after discussing them with my peers. I prioritised early morning studying as it was the time I found myself most receptive to learning. However, achieving this came at the cost of sacrificing my usual sleeping comfort. Waking up as early as 3 am every day was not an easy adjustment, but it ultimately proved to be a worthwhile sacrifice.
What was your social life on campus like?
My social life on campus was a harmonious blend of academic commitments and recreational activities. I frequently attended parties organised by the school, and I enjoyed embarking on food adventures with my friends. While I was actively involved in social gatherings, I also remained focused on maintaining a balance with my academic responsibilities.
What were the challenges you encountered as an undergraduate?
I would say my undergraduate years were relatively smooth, with minimal challenges, except for the time when my hostel teller went missing. It was a significant setback as I had to pay again, while the investigation into the missing teller took about six months. I am grateful to my roommate, Hafsat, for providing me with support and assistance during that trying period.
What would you be telling other ladies, especially those who want to attain your kind of feat?
My advice to other women would be to aim for the highest goals and never limit their potential. No course should be perceived as gender-specific. It’s crucial to continually challenge oneself to achieve excellence and ensure that your voice is heard. Be confident in who you are and what you can accomplish.
Any regrets attending a private university?
Absolutely not. I do not regret attending a private university. In fact, I am immensely grateful that I made the right decision by choosing a private university for my education.
If you had not studied Computer Engineering, what other course would you have preferred and why?
If I hadn’t pursued Computer Engineering, I would have opted for Nursing. My inclination towards caring for people and tending to their needs would have guided my choice in this field.
What are your plans after service year?
My plan entails working in a tech company while simultaneously pursuing a Master’s degree in either Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning or Engineering Management. My goal is to delve deeper into the field of technology and contribute my expertise to further advancements in the industry.
October 12, 2023 made it a year since Oba Jacob Adelowo ascended the throne as the Alahun of Ahun-Ekiti, Efon Local Government Area, Ekiti State. Before ascending the throne, he had worked with the Broadcasting Service of Ekiti State. In this interview with RASAQ IBRAHIM, he speaks about his journey to the throne and sundry issues.
It is almost one year since you were officially recognised as the Alahun of Ahun-Ekiti. How would you describe your journey to the throne?
Well, I can only thank God, because it is a 16-year battle. I also thank the Ekiti State Government which granted full autonomy to Ahun-Ekiti and recognised me as the paramount ruler of Ahun-Ekiti. The people of Efon Alaaye wanted to turn the issue to something like Ife and Modekeke. I almost lost my life to the struggle because it was a fierce one. There was a time I had eight cases in court, which were instituted by some ungodly and wicked people, who believed they had all in their hands to frustrate Ahun-Ekiti people’s agitations for autonomy.
But it would seem that the leadership of Efon local Government Area has not been giving Ahun-Ekiti due recognition in spite of the autonomy granted to the town by the state government…
I can boldly say the Alahun of Ahun-Ekiti has been attending the meeting of the majority Obas in Ekiti State without any obstruction, and I have been getting my salary promptly. My chiefs’ salaries have also been implemented even though the authorities of the local government still do not believe that there are two Obas in Efon local government area, because the money that is being given to a high chief in Efon Alaaye, which is 4%, is being given to all the Ahun chiefs; both the high chiefs and the kingmakers.
As I rightly said, you can see that the Chairman of Efon Local Government Council is not here despite the fact that a letter was written to him and an invitation was sent to him. The Chairman is still dealing with only the Alaaye in council and not the Obas in council, because for the past one year, no statutory meeting of Obas in council was held as it supposed to be and as it is done in other local governments.
They prevent me from even knowing the allocation accruing to the council, not to talk of the 7% being appropriated for the Obas in council. So, I am only sent whatever they like. The local government authority has also been excluding me from attending government activities. They openly told me that the Kabiyesi Alaaye of Efon said they should not invite me to any occasion; that if such a thing happened, he would not attend. Since then, the chairman of the local government prefers inviting the Alaaye rather than me.
In view of your alleged exclusion and non-recognition by the authorities of the Efon local government, what do you want the state government to do?
I want the Ekiti State Government to please come to our rescue. Ahun community is being cheated and deprived of its rights. Despite the government pronouncement granting Ahun-Ekiti autonomy, it is quite disheartening that the authority of Efon Local Government Area has refused to give due recognition to me as a king in that local government. That is just my appeal to the government.
What other areas do you want the Ekiti State Government to intervene?
I want the local government to come to our aid in terms of amenities. There is no water despite the fact that the reservoir feeding Efon Alaaye is erected on Ahun land. Up until now, you cannot see tap water on our land. We only rely on stream water because there is nothing like pipe borne water and this usually causes diseases in the community.
The situation usually gets worse during dry the season because the stream water we rely on would dry up and there would be nothing for us to drink. We also need a functional health centre. There was a clinic at Ogbake, but immediately Ahun-Ekiti was pronounced autonomous community, the people of Efon Alaaye, through the instrumentality of people in government, relocated the health centre to one of the quarters in Efon for reasons best known to them.
The people of Efon have kicked against the recognition of Ahun as autonomous town and your appointment as the king of the community, claiming that the matter is still pending at the Supreme Court. What is your take?
It is a fallacy. Before you leave my palace, I will give you a letter that discharged me of the High Court matter. The issue of Supreme Court, only the government and the Obalu people were served; the Ahun-Ekiti was not served. I am supposed to drag them to court and institute a legal action for going public that I was involved. The parties to the case were five in number, and you cannot find the Ahun-Ekiti there.
How true is the argument by Efon people that Ahun is a single family community and did not deserve the autonomy granted it by any measure?
It is very wrong to say that Ahun did not deserve the autonomous status granted by the Ekiti State Government. Without any equivocation, we merited the recognition by all standards. We are the original owners of Efon Kingdom. I only accommodated the Efon Alaaye people. The Oloja Ahun was the first settler in Efon Kingdom, who came with royal insignia from Ile-Ife. The land at that time was virgin but full of animals, mainly buffalos. So, Alahun Mokamoye, been the first settler in Efon, had to contend with animals. It was later the Ogboni Aganji, who is now known as Obaloja, and several other traditional rulers came to Efon.
The threat of the wild animals prompted the duo of Oluji Oba and Oisinkin Aaye to meet with Mokamoye to find a lasting solution to the animals’ threats. Mokamoye, a very powerful native leader, gathered the buffalos and marched them to Oke Ahun. So, many years after, people from Ipole Iraye, Ile-Ife came to the community, which was already in existence. When they arrived, Ijiemigun, a prince from Ile-Ife who stole a crown and ran to Ekiti land, sent one of his followers to trace the smoke he saw in the low land and to know the people living there. On his arrival, the person he saw was Oluji, who took him to Ogboni Aganju at his court yard and they later went to Oke Ahun to meet the Alahun Apakorowonuado, who reigned in the place of Mokamoye, who had joined his ancestors.
In principle, Alahun Apakorowonuado refused Ijiemigun’s request because Alahun had foreseen what is happening today. But after several contacts and appeals, Ijiemigun promised to make covenant with Alahun and all items to be used were listed for Ijiemigun. They are my visitors, but it is pity that today a tenant wants to be a landlord.
As at 1931, the Alaaye of Efon was not on the Obas list. It was the late Oba Adesoji Aderemi that made appeal that they should allow the Alaaye of Efon Alaaye to wear his crown as a descendant of the Oodua. But today, it’s pity he calls himself the Obalufon Alayemore, which is not founded in Ekiti.
Ask them who named the place Itamesi and why the place is called Itamesi; why the Alaaye of Efon should not see Ahun masquerade and why Ahunn children shouldn’t off their caps and kneel down to talk when they get to Alaaye palace. At the demise of the first Alaaye, they appealed to Alahun to be coming for their burial. It was our masquerade who buried Kabiyesi Alaaye Aladegbemi. As at today, Alaaye has no palace. The owner of that place that they stay is Ogboni. The palace was the burial ground of Ogboni people. Somebody who says he came and formed Efon Alaaye. Is Efon Alaaye a company? Up till now, they have no palace.
What are the historical ties between Ile-Ife and Ahun-Ekiti?
Ahun-Ekiti people immigrated around 1050AD from the Ogboru Adimula Ooni Ilare Ruling House in Ile-Ife where the late Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuade, was born. To prove that there are existing strong ties between Ahun-Ekiti and Ile-Ife, three traditional rulers came from Ife and the Ogboru Ruling House sent a 39-member representative to attend my one year coronation anniversary.
The Ubbe community in Nasarawa Eggon Local Government Area of Nasarawa State is in sorrow over the sudden death of four members in a mysterious boat accident on a river in Awe Local Government Area of the state. Particularly distressed is the Dauda family of which the deceased graduates and undergraduates were members.
The victims were crossing River Awe to Wuse village in a boat on Monday evening to harvest rice from their farm when their canoe capsized. Among the deceased were Shedrack Dauda, 29, who had just graduated top of his class at the Nasarawa State University in Keffi, Akolo Moses Dauda and Meshach Dauda, who are also undergraduates of the university, and Alkali Congo Dauda, 39, who had just graduated from the College of Education Akwanga.
It was gathered that the tragic incident occurred on Monday while they were travelling to their rice farm in Wuse for harvesting. Although there are different accounts of the incident, the most popular is that the river’s tide forced the boat to hit a tree, culminating in the accident.
The entire Ubbe community has since been thrown into mourning over the death of four educated members of the same family.
A witness, Mr Ibrahim Abu, said the deceased victims had barely boarded the boat for three minutes when the accident occurred.
Abu said: “The four young men came with their bags and boarded the boat. Three minutes after take-off, the boat capsized and all the four young university graduates in the boat died.
“I don’t know what happened when they took off, but the boat broke inside the river.
Abu lamented that the people of Wuse resort to water transportation because there are no access roads leading to the community.
“Our problem is that there is no access road that connects all the Wuse communities. We have no choice but to travel on water.
The aged mother of the siblings was far from getting over the disaster when our correspondent visited as she grappled with an experience her fragile posture could hardly bear. In a short speech amid tears, Mrs Dauda said her children had planned to pursue their academic programmes to master’s level.
The entire Dauda family was in pensive mood when our correspondent visited. It took the reporter some time to get them to speak about the death of their four grown up loves ones.
Sitting dejected in a corner of the house was a relative of the deceased victims, Joseph Congo Dauda.
Tears rolled down his cheeks before he could utter a word. But after gaining some composure, he sat back, clear his throat and declared that he would speak only briefly about the lives and times of the victims and the misfortune that befell the family.
Dauda said the entire family was living happily before tragedy struck on November 6. He said the deceased young men were workaholics who had chosen to assist their parents by engaging in farm activities to support the home front and support their education and other family needs. Consequently, he said, they acquired some lands in Wuse where they farmed rice.
Dauda said: “They were actually travelling to the farm to harvest their rice ahead of the Christmas celebration and school resumption in January
“We were in constant communication throughout the trip, even at the point of boarding the boat. Little did they or we at home know that they were on a journey of no return. A few minutes after they boarded the boat, we received the sad news that the boat capsized in the middle of the river and consumed them.
“We raised these children ourselves. The parents are not well to do people, but with their strong determination, they were able to make it through secondary school and up to the university and college of education.
“We never thought the four of them could die in one swoop. In fact, they died while working to build their future. I said so because they were going to harvest their rice farm to help them clear their educational needs.
“They were already laying a foundation for themselves to be self-sustained. They were so obedient, calm and focused on pursuing their dreams in life. I still can’t believe the pain of this whole loss. My heart is broken.
“I cannot believe that I will never see them again. I literally can’t bear it. The four young university graduates were already thinking of pursuing further studies to build a solid future. Sadly, death sneaked in, in a mysterious and cruel manner, killing not just one but the four of them in one swoop.
“We are going to accept what has happened, and I’m not blaming anybody for this. But I am appealing to both the state and federal government to construct a bridge, not only across the Awe River but other rivers around the country to avoid boat mishaps.
“Our plan for Shedrack, who was the first to graduate from the University before the other ones, was to support them in their educational pursuit to, at least, master’s level, so that in the future, they will have a great impact on the society
“We wanted them to be financially stable so that they would help the underprivileged in the society and contribute to the growth of Nasarawa State. Unfortunately, man proposes, God disposes.
“The four of them are no more. Sometimes it is ideal to question God’s work, but because He is invisible, you don’t see Him to question. Taking four graduates away in a family at a time is painful, to say the least.
“The children were very peaceful. They never had issues with people even in school. Throughout their period in primary, secondary to tertiary institutions, they never had any disagreement with anybody. They loved God so much and they were very mindful of how they relate with people because they did not like having misunderstanding with anyone.”
Asked what he and the family would miss about them, Dauda said: “We will miss so many things about them. Shedrack was a very good young man to the family. While he was growing up, especially after his graduation from the university in Keffi, he decided that he would learn some craft in Lafia and also assist his brothers to achieve their academic programmes, which was why he went with them to Awe to help them harvest rice.
“It is always his wish to assist his siblings. He supported us greatly even while in school. We will continue to miss and be proud of him. He was indeed a good young man.
“The death of four graduates in one fell swoop is a big tragedy and the entire Ubbe community has been crying since Monday when the news was broken. Their death came to us as a shock. The situation is really hard for us but we just cannot question God. He knows best, so we have to accept our fate.
The distraught mother Mrs Dauda explained amid tears that due to the difficult times, training four children in the higher institution at the same time was actually a difficult task, but the “committed and determined” young boys decided that they would return to the farm to assist their parents in settling some of their educational needs.
She said: “They farm rice yearly in far away Awe Local Government Area, and during holidays, they collectively travel there to harvest it to assist themselves in settling their school fees when they are resuming in January so as to save their parents the stress of catering for their school needs alone.
“Losing them in their prime is a lifetime scar; it will never heal. It is traumatic.”
She said their mysterious death was a bad dream she wished she could wake up from to hear it never happened.
“Why didn’t God take away my life? These children are the ones to bury me and not me burying them. What then is the meaning of life?
“I was already feeling fulfilled in life when Shedrack graduated from the university. He didn’t even wait to enjoy the fruit of his labour. He left alongside his brothers. What a world!
“Despite the difficulties, the boys kept encouraging me not to lose hope in life; that the future was bright. They had all the hope that the days/years ahead would be better.“They had good plans for me and the entire family, and they never foresaw death in the near future.
“Before their trip to Awe, the boys and I were inseparable. They gave me true love, cared so much about me and were constantly in touch with me even when they were in school.
“They meant well for the entire family. They always encouraged me to endure the hardship; that it was a matter of time. Now the time has not come and they are no more.
“God is not fair to the entire family. He has inflicted a permanent wound in my entire life. There is absolutely no point taking them away at the same time in their prime. What is their offence? My joy has been stolen, my expectations were to see them grow up to become men in the society, but God took them back.
“It is only God that can console us for us for we don’t have much to do to console ourselves. I will miss them so much. No one on earth can fill the space they have left in my life. My children were easy going people, good and dutiful, always committed to achieving whatever they wanted to achieve by leaving no stone unturned.
“We are badly touched by this whole loss. Their untimely exit from this sinful world has left us all distraught.”
A pastor, Rev. Solomon, who was friends with the deceased graduates, urged the family members not to query God over the incident, saying Christians should know that living and dying are in God’s control.
He advised Christians to emulate Christ, adding that because Jesus submitted himself to God’s authority, though He died, He later rose on the third day
According to him, Christians should know that the death of the four was of God and not of man. He said if the people understood life’s mystery, it would help them to correct and discard things denying them of God’s glory.
“It is God alone that can console the family for we don’t have much to do that will console them. The Daudas are for God and so, only God will console them.
“Jesus was for God and He died for God and because of that, we have life. It is therefore true that those who died in God will return to life as Jesus did, because He lives. May God enable those living to realise this and give God thanks in all things.”
Rev. Solomon said he was heartbroken over the incident, commiserating with the family in its moment of grief.
“I’m deeply sad because of this incident. We are together in it. The word of God is peace and in anything, he says there is peace.
“Our prayer for the Dauda family is that God will give them peace. We know what the people recorded in the Bible suffered and in the end, God repaid them.”
He prayed that such calamity would never be repeated in the land.
Since the time of Hippocrates, the ‘Father of Medicine’, around 400 B.C., medical science is yet to document a single case of mystically-disappearing manhood. But in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), well above 100 of such cases have been said to have occurred within the past three months.
In other parts of the country, many claim to have also heard about numerous such cases. It is not uncommon to see irreverent skit makers weave content out of such common anxieties that produce disturbing results.
On October 13 last month, a man on evangelising mission accused of snatching someone’s manhood was lynched by a mob at One Man Village, an area in Nasarawa State just outside the Federal CapitalTerritory (FCT). The killers of the victim, who was said to be a member of Living Faith Church, fled before police arrived at the scene.
Earlier, on Thursday, October 5, a commercial cyclist identified as Yahuza died in hospital after he was brutally attacked by a mob in Nyanya following an allegation by one of his passengers that he caused his manhood to disappear during a brief ride.
The FCT Commissioner of Police announced subsequently that between September 21 when the first case of missing manhood was reported in Gwagwalada and last week, there had been no fewer than 62 cases of alleged disappearance of manhood reported to the police in the territory.
“The first case of male organ disappearance was first recorded in Gwagwalada on 21/09/2023. It has spread all over FCT whereby as of today, we have had a total of sixty-two (62) cases reported. Fifty-one (51) have been suspects charged to court for giving false information and inciting public disturbance,” he said.
Still, many who claim to know someone that knows someone who is a victim have continued to spread fears about alleged disappearance of manhood, especially in Abuja suburbs and other towns.
For instance, Mr. Adamson, an otherwise well-educated worker with a private firm in Wuse, could not hide his disdain for any thought that a conversation about missing manhood is an unserious affair. He would not hesitate to bring out the ‘antidotes’ he carries about in his pocket nowadays – an unbroken piece of bitter kola and a stone-sized charcoal.
According to him and several other men close to Wuse Market, these odd objects generate enough metaphysical vibrations to counter the curious powers of unidentified people who routinely perform the odd exercise of magically snatching away any man’s manhood for the gratification of some equally odd, manhood-hungry gods.
So where do the disappearing phalluses go? To some distant shrine where they are received in some calabash, with a sprinkling of the victim’s blood on top – like some serving of Mama Put amala or in the closet of some sex-hungry madams with sated appetite for battery-operated vibrators? Till date, no one knows with any measure of certainty; the superstitious realm appears convincing or comforting enough.
One common explanation is that witches, wizards and politicians conspire to somehow use the item for replication of wealth and acquisition of more political influence.
A conviction about the presence of paranormal powers and occurrences spans across the tapestry of diverse cultures, but there exists a distinctive peculiarity in the manner through which this belief manifests in the heart of Africa. It is such that some assert that our belief systems could be part of reasons why the rest of the world seems to have sprinted ahead while we linger in the shadows of political and economic underdevelopment.
The African cosmology, deeply interwoven with spirituality, could be seen as a key factor predisposing us to a pattern of belief that borders on the mystical and superstitious. This unique worldview, rich with the essence of spirituality, may have in its intricate fabric threads of superstition which add to the complex tapestry of our belief systems.
For those old enough, it is easy to recall that in few cities during the 1970s, there were fears about the possibility of one’s masculinity vanishing into thin air like mist upon shaking hands or having mere physical contact with a person rumoured to possess unfathomable mystical prowess. Such apprehension, like the ebbing tide, would periodically retreat, only to resurface again, casting its shadow upon us. Note too, that once in a long while; we get enthusiastically regaled with stories of how someone turned children or even grown men into tubers of yam.
Now, the ‘missing manhood’ fears that once gripped parts of Nigeria during the 1980s before a decisive threat of summary detention by the military regime ended it currently manifests beyond Abuja.
Just last month, Delta State Police spokesperson, DSP Bright Edafe, confirmed an arrest and warned the public in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
“On Sunday, 8th October, 2023, at DBS Road Asaba, this 18-year-old suspect, Ebube Linus, raised a false alarm that an old woman inside a tricycle touched him and his manhood (penis) disappeared. Over 100 misguided touts gathered and mobbed this woman, stripping her naked and beating her to a stupor to the point of almost killing her,” he stated.
Yet one Vincent Nwosu, a resident of Garki, who is in his 30s, asserts that missing manhood is real because it once happened to him.
“I went to sleep as a whole man, but upon waking, it had vanished. I searched high and low, but there was no sign of it. It’s as if it evaporated into thin air. But after shutting myself in and doing one hour of mighty prayers, God restored it,” he said in a really incredible tale.
A disturbing viral video clip that circulated in October had shown a 68-year-old widow, Mrs Ann Ekechukwu, mobbed, stripped naked and later handed over to the police over allegations that she ‘stole’ someone’s manhood during a ride in a commercial tricycle in Asaba, Delta State.
Concerned about how anxieties spurred by the new wave of allegedly disappearing genitals may negatively affect its annual internationally-known ‘Calabar Festival’ that holds every December, the Cross River State Government sought an immediate end to such talks and the beatings that sometimes follow.
In a September 12, 2023 press statement, the state government emphatically described reports of disappearing genitals as “fake news” and threatened to apply “the full· wrath of the law” against anyone found to have a hand in spreading such accusations/rumours. Still, the problem persists!
Last month too, the Commandant-General of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Dr Ahmed Abubakar Audi, ordered the arrest of NSCDC officers seen in a video clip circulated online, following their vicious beating up of a man who was alleged to have stolen the genitalia of two men.
In Lokoja, the Kogi State capital, the disturbing phenomenon of alleged missing manhoods have culminated into cases of cruel physical assaults. The problem allegedly caused by the powers of sorcery and witchcraft resulted into numerous reports of men losing their penises – partially or completely – while walking through the streets, waking up in bed, during sexual activity or just passing by someone who appears to have some unseen magical powers.
In spite of the serious warnings from FCT Police Command, the unusual and perplexing phenomenon has gripped the population and a wave of mass hysteria has swept across many neighbourhoods, leaving people bewildered and anxious.
It is a peculiar situation that defies logical explanation. And as rumours and fear spread, many are left in distress and anxiety that lead them to resort to all manner of counter-measures.
Consequently, some people no longer respond to greetings or requests for direction from strangers. Others now stay more alert while sharing seats in commercial vehicles and some others find faith in having objects like a small Bible or a combination of charcoal and bitter kola in their pockets.
The most worrisome aspect of the problem of alleged missing manhood in Abuja is the ease with which it is causing mob lynching across the FCT.
Rahab Emmanuel, a housewife and mother of four, told the FCT Commissioner for Public Complaints Commission (PCC), Mr Ezekiel Musa Dalhatu, how she was almost lynched for allegedly stealing a man’s genitals at Gosa village along the Abuja-Airport Road.
Rahab, who eked out a living by doing domestic chores for people, said that a man who gave her N200 for her to buy biscuit for her little child suddenly turned around and started shouting that his manhood was missing. Before she could process what was happening, several young men had appeared with sticks and other objects that they used on her before she was taken into the area’s vigilante office nearby.
Psychological and Medical Explanations.
Danjuma, a police detective, attributes most cases of alleged genital disappearance to criminals’ ploys aimed towards diverting public attention or putting potential victims into threat situations.
He said: “When a man is dragged out of his car and beaten up over allegations of stolen manhood, no one asks about what happens to the money or telephone handset in his pocket.
“And worse things have been known to happen because frustrated, angry youths easily join in spontaneous application of jungle justice on any unfortunate victim.”
Remi Kehinde Ojewumi, a university lecturer who has a Ph.D in Clinical Psychology, thinks that there may be a psychological explanation for the problem.
Ojewumi said: “We deal with what we can verify objectively. Again, are you aware of what we call ‘Group Control’? This means that people around us can influence our thoughts and behaviour in a numbers of ways.
“Also, look up the concept of ‘Self-fulfilling prophecy’ and you can see that a whole lot of this phenomenon can be explained by Psychology. A self-fulfilling prophecy is a prediction that comes true at least in part as a result of a person’s belief or expectation that said prediction would come true.”
Delving into the database of medical research, one easily comes up with ‘Koro Syndrome’ which somewhat bears close similarity to the missing manhood issue being reported in Abuja.
In men, Koro may manifest as the unwarranted conviction that their penis is undergoing a gradual vanishing act. Conversely, in women, the fear may centre around the perceived shrinking or disappearance of their breasts. This highly localised and culture-specific manifestation of anxiety underscores the influence of cultural beliefs on mental health.
Part of the scientific literature of the United States’ National Institute of Health published on February 21, 2023 and made available online is a paper: ‘Koro Syndrome: Epidemiology, Psychiatric and Physical Risk Factors, Clinical Presentation, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options’ authored by Yukino Strong and nine others, following a study in parts of Asia where there were claims about the retraction or ‘disappearance’ of male genitals.
“Koro syndrome is a multi-tiered disease presenting as an overwhelming belief that one’s sex organs are shrinking into their body. Moderate to severe anxiety attacks are associated with the condition, along with a fear of imminent death.
“Koro is often culturally related and is most seen as an epidemic form in East and Southeast Asia, although it can present anywhere worldwide in its sporadic form. The condition typically affects young males who believe in sex-related myths, and many individuals can co-present with anxiety, depression, or even psychosis.
“Although most presentations of Koro are self-limiting, the condition is harmful for one’s self-esteem and quality of life, and some individuals may go through extreme, physically injurious measures to prevent genital retraction. Treatments include the use of psychotherapy that has a sex education component, especially if the patient believes in culturally rooted myths.
“In sporadic Koro, it is believed that if the primary psychiatric disorder is treated with anxiolytics, antidepressants, sedatives, or psychotics, the secondary Koro-like symptoms will also fade.
“Additional investigation on the prevalence, pathogenesis, factors that correlate with treatment efficacy are needed to fully understand Koro syndrome,” the researchers stated.
Addressing Koro is a delicate task, as it involves not only the individual’s mental well-being but also the cultural and societal beliefs that contribute to the condition’s persistence. While psychological interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy can help individuals manage their distress and anxiety, broader strategies are required to address the cultural and social factors perpetuating Koro.
Education and awareness play a crucial role in dispelling myths and misconceptions related to sexuality that contribute to the onset of Koro. Open dialogue within affected communities, led by mental health professionals and cultural leaders, can help individuals understand the psychological underpinnings of the condition and encourage more constructive belief systems.
No doubt, Abuja may need more that the threat from the FCT Commissioner of police before the scare of missing manhood becomes a thing of the past once again.
The spate of untold merciless beatings of randomly suspected manhood thieves across several Nigerian towns and cities call for great attention.
While speculations run rampant, numerous individuals, including experts, traditional healers, and religious figures who proffer their own interpretations and remedies only add to the intrigue surrounding this peculiar crisis.
Herbalists, distillers, others flood market with products
Ghanaians, others smile to bank selling unregistered products
in Nigeria Youths high on enhancers mess up at orgy party
Production and sale of aphrodisiacs has become a big money spinner. Most herbal concoctions, energy drinks, alcoholic bitters, among others, are laced with aphrodisiac ingredients and marketed with messages that brazenly hype their potency. Ghana and many other countries are latching onto the thriving business and turning Nigeria into a dumping ground for all manner of unregistered aphrodisiac products. INNOCENT DURU examines the implications of the trend for the rising incidents of rape and health problems in the society.
ADAMU, a dark complexioned young man, sells herbal medicines stuffed in plastic bottles along LASU/Isheri Road in Lagos. Besides the herbs, he also sells all manner of aphrodisiacs which he brazenly displays on his table.
The products need no introduction, because the obscene pictures on the packages say it all.
“This one works well,” he said in reply to our correspondent’s request for potent brands. “It costs just N500 a pack. It is in tablet form and you only need it before the match,” he said in salacious tone.
Pointing to another, he said, “This one is just like coffee. You only pour it in hot water and drink before you start action. Walahi, e dey work well well (I swear, it works very well)”
Asked how he knew that it works well, Adamu said: “People buy it a lot. It is one of the brands that people buy the most.”
Checks on some of the products showed that they are not made in Nigeria and are not registered by NAFDAC. Information on the packages showed that some of them came from Ghana while others bear Arabic inscriptions without NAFDAC’s mark of approval on them.
As the conversation was going on, a man suspected to be in his 50s walked in. The customer knew what he wanted and where it was kept as he opened a box, took a small tablet and handed N200 over to Adamu.
“What is that?” our correspondent inquired after the customer left. Adamu opened the box containing different tablets cut into pieces. A particular brand was shaped like a man’s private part with the sac attached to it.
“It helps man to perform well. The man will last longer after taking it, Adamu said with a sense of expertise.”
A number of other young men also strolled in at regular intervals to pick their brands from Adamu while our correspondent sat observing the craze for aphrodisiacs among Nigerian men.
Besides the likes of Adamu who sell by the roadside, online checks revealed that many young ladies have been quitting their jobs and floating mega aphrodisiac businesses, which they say is highly lucrative because the products are in high demand.
Walking away from Adamu, our correspondent ran into another trader who gleefully marketed his products to him.
He particularly advertised a product he claimed had no side effects.
“Oga, this one is not for drinking. You only need to rob it on your manhood and it will stand well well,” he said, assuring that our correspondent would come looking for the product subsequently.
Prior to his meeting with the above traders, our correspondent had run into a trader who caught his attention in an unusual way.
“Oga, buy Maradona,” he said as our correspondent gazed at him to see what he meant.
Having caught his attention, the trader raised a very dark wood perfectly carved like manhood. Holding it firmly, he tossed it up and down to demonstrate how turgid a man’s manhood would become after using his product.
“When you use it, you will still be on after one hour,” he said as he brought out other products he said were in high demand.
Herbal concoctions aggressively marketed as aphrodisiacs
Apart from the above types of sex enhancers, checks further revealed that regular herbal concoctions sellers have begun to make brisk business aggressively promoting aphrodisiacs. While some sell their aphrodisiacs in raw forms, others have elevated their brands, selling them in well branded packages.
The poor herbal concoction sellers have moved from selling powdery aphrodisiac called ale (hardener) in Yoruba language. They now do a series of mixtures for their clients.
“How about the one that will make you perform very well as a man,” a seller asked our correspondent who had bought herbs meant for treatment of pile from her.
For some who use megaphones to market their wares in public areas, the manner of advertising the products are sometimes crude and disturbing. They pronounce private parts and sexual issues without any consideration for the effects it could have on the morality of the children who are listening to them.
One of the marketers’ advertisements on major roads in Lagos goes thus: “Oga, you do only three seconds and give up, saying yours is a quick action. Are you a fowl? Better buy this enhancer and make madam happy.
“When you use it, your manhood will stand kakaraka like iron, and wherever you meet your woman, you will be able to hit her well. If you see her in the kitchen, you hit her. If you see her in the bathroom, you hit her.”
At times, they employ fear appeal to compel pliable consumers to buy their products.
“You, a landlord that performs only once and gives up, may God never allow your tenant to take over your wife. You better come here before a tenant takes over your responsibility.”
Some more privileged manufacturers go on air to advertise their wares and are overlooked as they use all manners of foul expressions.
Alcoholic bitters, energy drinks, others as aphrodisiacs
Other forms of aphrodisiacs that are highly abused are energy drinks and alcoholic bitters. The brands in the market are innumerable and they all thrive on being potent aphrodisiacs.
The adverts are couched in suggestive words and at times in irresponsible manners. They come in sachets, small plastic bottles as well as big bottles.
Age restrictions about who can consume the products are at times placed on the packages but that is hardly followed.
Aphrodisiacs in pharmacies and supermarkets
The sales of aphrodisiacs are also common in supermarkets and pharmacies. In supermarkets, the drugs are sold as over the counter products and open to anyone who has the money to buy them.
At supermarkets, they come in different forms, including herbal teas. Everywhere you turn to in the country, aphrodisiacs are available in any form you want.
Why demand for aphrodisiacs is on the rise
Speaking on why demands for aphrodisiacs are on the increase, a sex therapist and Executive Director of Sex in Marriage Therapy (SIM) Omolola Natural, said: “Its use has been abused overtime just because of people’s ideology of what is expected of them when it comes to sex. It is something majorly used by men because they want to last longer.
“That is not the only reason, but most times, men want something that will make them last longer in bed because they feel that is what makes them a man.
“The use of those things come from wrong viewpoints about sex in the first place. For a woman’s satisfaction, it is not about the man lasting longer because the man can last as long as can be and still not satisfy a woman. Most men don’t understand that aspect. They don’t understand that satisfying a woman is not just about the jerking and penetration. They are just all about ‘let me last long’.
“It has become something like a norm that if you don’t use these things, you can’t perform and you are not a man. Everybody wants to feel like a man and they go all out. They can pay anything to get it.
“Like I can have people book for therapy and tell them the therapy fee and explain the gains of doing it. But they will just tell you no, no,no, just give me the drugs.
“I tell them you actually don’t need drugs but they don’t want to hear that. They are not interested in the right information. They are just interested in the drug.”
Aside from wanting to last longer in bed, she said: “Some men tell me that they want a longer manhood because theirs is six inches. They want eight inches. It is just this mentality of wanting more.
“I don’t know if you read the story of the man with the longest manhood. He is feeling he is carrying too much load. Although he has entered the Guinness Book of record, he has lost many job opportunities. Now it has become a burden for the man who has a long one, but those who have shorter ones want it to be longer.”
Also speaking, the Executive Director of Initiative for Sustaining Family Unity, Kate Ibeanusi, said: “Some people take it as self-help medication to help them perform no matter how minimal. Some are using it to show that they can do this and do it more than any other person. Then, there are these people who are taking it for the fun of it to embolden them to molest people.”
Going further, she said: “Nigeria is a fertile ground for everything that is not good, and it is coming from the point of regulation. We have the rules but we don’t have strong institutions that can monitor and control whatever rules that exist.
“The country becomes very porous and people can bring in anything at any time without any fear of reprimand or being caught or cautioned. Even when they are caught, they would easily tell you that they will get away with it.”
She regretted that individuals in Nigeria are using the excuse that the times are hard to indulge in vices that have long term implications for productivity for relationships with one another.
“These vices are affecting meaningful conversations because a number of people take this, I don’t know if it is only the sexual effects it has on them, I also believe it impairs their judgment.
“If the only thing that is occupying the mind of a man is how he will take aphrodisiac to perform, it will impair his judgment, which will eventually make him not to have attraction just for the partner for which he has taken it but it could also be for harassing and intimidating other people.”
Youths share aphrodisiacs at orgy party
Kate Ibeanusi also spoke about how youths hold orgy parties where they share aphrodisiacs.
She said: “Young people now put anything in the foods they eat. They now hold orgy parties where they come together and collectively share aphrodisiacs to spike their sexual desire for one another.
“Beyond it being linked to the increase in rape cases, what about the ones that these teenagers come together cook food and spike it?
“They also make cookies and spike it with the intention to raise their sexual arousal level so that they can all make love to one another. It is a huge problem.”
She said the use of aphrodisiacs among the youth is like a rite of passage now. “It is a way to show that you are in town. It is not only for the guys but also for the girls. It is a ritual of growing up in recent years. They force themselves on one another. For those who are not consenting, they will force them.
“Little children engage in different sexual activities simply because they are taking these things. So many of them are getting raped and raping one another because they are taking these things.
“And because we don’t have strong institutions, anybody can buy anything. In more organised countries, even to buy alcohol, you have to show your ID card to show that you are up to a certain age. But here, even little children are sent to buy alcoholic drinks. Even these alcoholic drinks you are talking about and all these sachet drinks they call all manners of ridiculous names, little children are sent to buy them for adults. So, why would it not be everywhere?
“It is no longer a thing that people hide. Before, when people talked about Viagra they covered their mouths and lowered their voices. Now with the proliferation of production of all these kinds of bitters, energy drinks and all that, people are no longer ashamed of using it.
“Young men buy a bottle of coke, pour these drinks in them and consume.”
Why some women use aphrodisiacs
Omolola Natural explained why apart from men, some women also use aphrodisiacs.
She said: “Women take these things for different purposes. I told you that men take it for the purpose of energy to last longer. Women are not interested in energy or lasting longer. Some women are interested in being wet for a longer time because they go dry on time. There is what we call virginal sugar.
“Some women take it because they want their virginal sweeter. We have something like Spanish Fly that can make a woman go gaga, but only a few women want to do that. I hardly see women who would do that because they want to go gaga.
“I am not talking about women who use sex as their means of trade. Those ones might want to do anything to be in the mood. We hardly have products in this category that are adulterated because they are natural.”
Demand fuels adulteration
Omolola Natural noted that there has been adulteration of aphrodisiacs because of the high demand for them.
She said: “The reason why we are having adulteration is because of that unsatisfying desire in the heart of people to just want to do anything to feel like a man and what makes them feel like a man is because they feel it is when I am able to last longer to the extent that she can’t walk.
“But like I said earlier, satisfying a partner sexually is not really about that.
“If you are greedy about gain, you can actually put anything together and say it works for this, and people will gladly buy it. That is why we are beginning to have a lot of adulteration, because whether it works or not, as long as you give it that tag, people will gladly buy it.
“They may try for the first time and not come back, but they will gladly buy it.
“I have had a friend who spent N5,000 buying one online to improve his performance. Immediately he opened it, the whole house started smelling, and that was something that he was supposed to drink. He ended up turning the drink which costs N5, 000 into his toilet. There was no way someone could have drunk that kind of thing because it was really smelly.”
Recently, the operatives of the Zone ‘B’ Strike Force of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) intercepted assorted foreign sex drugs worth over N6 million in Katsina State.
According to the agency, the drugs, all bearing fake NAFDAC registration numbers, were intercepted in Malumfashi and Jibia Local Government Areas of the state as part of the NCS’s ongoing war and zero-tolerance for smuggling.
They included 52 cartons of EJAC powder manpower alongside several manpower capsules such as Bobarak capsule manpower, Ginseng coffee manpower, Sacks manpower, Goldfly, gonorrhea capsule, amipara plus capsule and hympashy capsule.
Aphrodisiac business highly profitable
Speaking on the profitability of the business, Executive Director of SIM, Omolola Natural, said: “Aphrodisiac business is a big market and it is extremely profitable. If you know how to mix the natural herbs in a way that they will work, you might probably spend N1,000 to mix something and sell it for N20,000.
“People will buy it. You know human beings need anything to save face. One big problem of humans is shame. Anything that will make them boost their ego, human beings can give anything to get it. This is why you will see people quit their jobs to go into it.”
Relationship between use of aphrodisiacs and rising rape incidents
Incidents of rape in the country are said to be on the rise. Although there are no statistics to confirm this, the United Nations Women said a total of 11,200 rape cases, including children who were raped to death, were reported in Nigeria in 2020.
The Technical Specialist, Spotlight Initiative of the UN Women, Tosin Akibu, added that violence against women and girls had continued to grow at an alarming rate.
She said: “In 2020, a total of 11,200 rape cases were reported. Some of these included children who were raped to death. Violence against women continues to occur at an alarming rate.
Speaking on this, Kate Ibeanusi said she could not expressly say that the use of aphrodisiacs is responsible for rising rape cases. “Just like we would tell you that alcohol is not a reason for any form of abuse, the use of aphrodisiac, I cannot say it is directly related to the increase in rape. Rather, I will say that it has an influence in the sense that people who take aphrodisiac, they have a motive for taking it.
“Having taken it, it now emboldens them to go out and carry out that act. Just like the way alcohol does not necessarily make a man beat his wife, but with the intake of alcohol, he is more emboldened to do it. That is what these aphrodisiacs are doing.
“Yes, rape is on the increase, but with the use of aphrodisiacs, the users are able to complete the process. At the end of the day, it still has its negative impact on our social interactions. Remember when I talked about how it interacts with social interactions, relationships and conversation.”
NAFDAC raises alarm over indiscriminate use of aphrodisiacs
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), recently raised the alarm over indiscriminate use of aphrodisiacs.
The agency warned that consumption of such substances could lead to stroke, organ damage or sudden death.
NAFDAC’s Director-General, Prof Mojisola Adeyeye,
said: “Most of the performance enhancing drugs are not registered with NAFDAC. They are smuggled into the country. If they were registered, the producers and peddlers alike would not be doing what they are doing in the supermarkets, social media platforms and on the streets.
Adeyeye lamented that many men have died using performance enhancing drugs and their relatives would blame their death on some imaginary witches in the village.
The NAFDAC boss also described as false the claim by the producers of the products that they have no side effects, insisting that the majority of the products did not go through the approval process of the agency.
Health implications of aphrodisiacs
Adeyeye noted that unbridled use of aphrodisiacs has a lot of implications in the entire body system, noting that the use of the products could potentially affect blood pressure.
The NAFDAC boss explained that “when you have a disproportionate flow of blood to a particular part of the body and lasting longer than normal, they tend to disrupt the normal flow of the circulatory system.
“When these things are used, especially with some herbal medicines that don’t have dosage and professional prescription, it can lead to internal organ damage. It can hurt the liver and the kidneys, leading to untimely death.”
Adeyeye recalled that over N3 billion worth of falsified and banned drugs and unwholesome food products were seized by the Agency recently at the Lagos Trade Fair Complex where no fewer than 20 trailer loads of such banned and unwholesome products were seized by officials of the agency’s investigation and enforcement directorate led by Barrister Kingsley Ejiofor.
She disclosed that some of the drugs impounded at the trade fair complex were performance enhancing drugs. Worse still, they are counterfeited.
“When something is counterfeited, the manufacturers don’t care about quality. They add what they are not supposed to add or add more than what they are supposed to add. Invariably, the user is the loser,” she said.
Over the past few years, Nigeria has made remarkable strides in the fight against HIV/AIDS – identifying cases, providing treatment and pioneering innovative solutions to combat the disease. In this exclusive interview, the Director-General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Dr Gambo Aliyu, delved into Nigeria’s HIV management and control strategies, the transformative initiatives undertaken and the vision that propels the nation toward an HIV-free future. From local manufacturing of essential medications to empowering communities through awareness campaigns, Dr Aliyu discussed the state of HIV control in Nigeria, HIV Trust Fund, HIV self-test kit and other germane issues. He spoke with Associate Editor ADEKUNLE YUSUF. Excerpts:-
Why Nigeria hosted West and Central African HIV prevention workers
The gathering aims to unite champions and probation experts for a collaborative exchange of ideas and knowledge. With representatives from every state in addition to our own team from Nigeria, the goal is to foster a fruitful dialogue. By sharing insights and experiences, we hope to recognise effective strategies, not only within our nation but also in the broader regional context. This collective effort will help us identify successful approaches that merit continued focus, while also guiding us in re-evaluating methods that may need adjustment as we move toward the year 2030.
This meeting serves as a platform for probation experts and champions to come together and exchange ideas, despite the fact that we should have convened much earlier in our respective countries. We all face challenges and successes in our individual efforts. The sooner we start sharing these experiences, the better for all of us. Those embarking on new initiatives can learn from the mistakes of those who started earlier, avoiding similar pitfalls. Similarly, those who have achieved rapid progress in certain areas can share their successes, guiding newcomers on the same path to cost-effectiveness. These discussions should have been an integral part of our programme from the beginning, but the realisation has come a bit late. However, as we are nearing the year-end, it’s crucial for us to intensify our efforts. As challenges decrease, our expectations to contribute more or innovate further will increase.
We aim to learn from their (other African countries) experiences, particularly in reaching out to adolescents and young people. Understanding their methods of communication and how they generate demand among this demographic is crucial. Engaging and connecting with them is at the core of our agenda. Additionally, we have an existing programme that we fear might not be sustainable in the long run. Many programmes face this challenge over time; they need to be integrated back into the mainstream. As we contemplate reintegrating our standalone programme into the mainstream, we seek insights from those who have already successfully mainstreamed their programmes. Understanding their achievements and the hurdles they faced will guide us in addressing similar challenges. One specific programme we have is focused on providing comprehensive healthcare services for the adolescent and young population. This programme operates as a centre for adolescents nationwide, ensuring maximum privacy, confidentiality, and protection of rights. However, with the approaching year 2030, sustaining standalone facilities might not be feasible. We grapple with questions about how to seamlessly reintegrate these services into the mainstream. Our concerns revolve around maintaining privacy, ensuring confidentiality, eradicating stigmatisation and discrimination, and safeguarding the rights of the individuals seeking our services. Learning from others’ experiences in this realm is vital as we navigate these challenges.
The state of HIV management and control in Nigeria
Nigeria has made significant strides in the past four years, especially in identifying cases and linking individuals to HIV treatment. Our efforts have been bolstered by a meticulous tracking mechanism, ensuring that every HIV-positive individual who receives treatment is accounted for. This approach marks a substantial departure from the past, allowing us to monitor progress, address treatment issues promptly, and prevent the virus from spreading further. Thanks to these efforts, we have witnessed a decline in new HIV infections, hospitalisations related to HIV and AIDS-related deaths.
However, our primary challenge remains consistent over the past four decades: stigma and discrimination. The fear of social exclusion prevents many from seeking HIV testing and treatment. Breaking this cycle of fear and prejudice is essential to our mission. We urge the community to embrace individuals living with HIV, treat them with compassion, and encourage them to seek treatment without fear of judgment. By fostering an environment of acceptance and support, we can empower people to come forward, get tested, and access necessary treatments. We acknowledge the progress we’ve made and the hurdles we’ve overcome, but the battle against HIV is far from over. Our focus now is to eradicate stigma and discrimination entirely. The government cannot achieve this alone; it requires the cooperation of every citizen. By providing transportation assistance to those in need, encouraging them to adhere to their medication regimens, and showing empathy and understanding, we can ensure that people living with HIV receive the care they deserve. Additionally, we have made HIV medication more accessible than ever before, with over 2000 centers across the country offering free treatment. We encourage everyone to come forward, get tested, and avail themselves of these services. By demanding HIV services, individuals can protect themselves and others, contributing significantly to our goal of ending HIV and AIDS by 2025. We are confident that with continued dedication and community involvement, Nigeria will achieve the 95-95-95 target by 2025, a significant step toward a future without the burden of HIV and AIDS.
Local manufacturing of HIV drugs and self-test kits
Our ongoing discussions with prominent pharmaceutical companies revolve around a crucial topic: local manufacturing of HIV drugs. It’s heartening to note that the Global Fund and the United States have shown keen interest in promoting this initiative. Incentives are being offered to companies, either those already manufacturing or those on the verge of starting production. These incentives serve as a catalyst for change, transforming the landscape from what it was several years ago. In the past, large pharmaceutical companies hesitated to manufacture locally. They preferred supplying drugs to Nigeria from abroad, thereby reaping significant profits. However, our vision for the future is different. We want these companies to establish manufacturing facilities within our borders. This approach not only ensures timely access to essential drugs but also generates employment opportunities for our citizens. By manufacturing drugs locally, we create jobs, pay taxes to the government, and bolster the nation’s economy. The impact of this shift became evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. While we managed to procure medications, global disruptions in logistics and supply chains delayed their delivery. If these drugs were manufactured domestically, we could have swiftly obtained them, ensuring a more efficient response to the crisis. Furthermore, local manufacturing aligns with our principle of maximising the benefits meant for Nigeria. When funds are allocated for our country, we aim to extract every advantage, empowering our people, boosting our economy, and securing the healthcare needs of our citizens. This initiative not only ensures a stable supply of HIV drugs but also paves the way for a self-sufficient healthcare ecosystem, enhancing our resilience in the face of future challenges.
The strides we’ve made in HIV testing are truly remarkable. Today, you can comfortably sit in your room, conduct a test, and know your status without leaving your home. You have the freedom to choose where you receive treatment, and we’re here to assist you in that choice. There have been significant advancements in treatment methods. In some places, instead of daily medication, individuals have the option to receive injections every two or three months. We aim to improve this further, offering alternatives for those who prefer injections over oral medication. These injections can be administered every few months, providing a convenient option for long-term treatment. We’re closely observing the outcomes of these methods in other regions to learn from their experiences and adapt these approaches to our system. These innovations are already available in our communities. If you ask those around you, they might have one of these kits with them. We distribute them widely during our meetings to create awareness. Your role as members of the press is crucial here; by showcasing these advancements through your articles and images, you contribute significantly to raising awareness among our population. We’re actively working to make these kits more accessible. Currently, we’re focus ng on specific populations, especially those at higher risk. As acceptance grows, these kits will become readily available in pharmacies, allowing anyone to walk in, purchase one, and conduct a test in the privacy of their home.
Funding for HIV prevention and HIV Trust Fund
The primary funding for HIV programmes in Nigeria comes from sources such as the United States President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the Global Fund. We are currently working on ensuring the authorisation for continued funding after 2025, hoping that the efforts will be successful. However, in the event of challenges with the authorisation, we are preparing to strategise. We are considering how to maintain essential services with the limited resources available, including government funds, global funding, and contributions from local donors. To address this concern, we initiated discussions approximately two years ago, leading to the establishment of the HIV Trust Fund of Nigeria. The goal was to engage the private sector and encourage states to take a proactive role in response efforts. While the Trust Fund operates independently from the government, it is driven by the private sector. We communicate our needs to them, and based on their resources, they determine the extent to which they can support these requirements. Several pledges have been made, and we are actively pursuing their fulfillment. Additionally, individuals have made generous donations, which continue to come in. We urge people to learn more about the HIV Trust Fund and consider contributing. Donations, regardless of the amount, are welcomed and will be utilized to provide vital services to individuals living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria. You don’t need to be a billionaire to make a meaningful impact; every contribution matters and will be put to good use.
Message for Nigerians as season of festivities draws nearer
My message is one of gratitude to the Nigerian people. We are deeply thankful for the remarkable acceptance and response to HIV services in our country. Over the past four years, we have witnessed positive changes in communities, largely due to the proactive engagement of Nigerians with our HIV programmes. I want to urge my fellow Nigerians, especially those living with HIV, to continue their commendable efforts. Keep visiting our healthcare facilities for regular check-ups and to access the medications provided. It’s crucial not only for your well-being but also for the safety of your loved ones. For those who are unaware of their HIV status, I implore you to actively join our fight against HIV. Your contribution begins with a simple act: get tested. Knowing your HIV status is a powerful step in preventing the spread of the virus. If you are HIV-positive, please ensure you don’t transmit it to others; keep the virus contained within yourself. This responsible action is what we encourage every Nigerian to embrace. And for those who are HIV-negative, continue to protect yourself and others by getting tested regularly. Together, we can make a significant difference in the fight against HIV/AIDS in Nigeria. Let us stand united in our efforts to create a healthier, safer future for all.
Ibasa Ijegun-Egba in Oriade Local Council Development Area (LCDA) is a community known for peace and tranquillity. It was created out of Amuwo-Odofin Local Government Area 20 years ago. The community with seven wards has not witnessed any form of rumpus until October 27, when the peaceful community was invaded by police personnel and land grabbers. The community leaders have appealed to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Inspector-General of Police to come to their aid, CHINAKA OKORO reports
For 20 years, Bisi and Ajagun have been neighbours in the Ibasa Ijegun-Egba in the Oriade Local Council Development Area (LCDA).
Bisi builds local boats while Ajagun specialises in fishing nets. They have not noticed any form of disturbance in the riverside community, which has witnessed all-round peace since it became part of Oriade LCDA when it was created in 2003.
Ibasa is a community known for peace and tranquillity and has seven wards which are Abule-Osun, Agboju, Ibeshe, Ijegun-Egba, Irede, Kirikiri and Kuje.
Its peaceful mien was, however, shattered on Friday, October 27, when some members of the community alleged that police personnel and land grabbers invaded their land.
The residents have cried out that their area was allegedly invaded by police personnel from Zone 2 and land grabbers over unverified allegations.
In a chat with reporters, the residents stated that since the invasion of the town and their markets, peace had eluded the community.
Narrating his experience, Chief Tajudeen Ibikunle, the Baale of Ibasa Ijegun-Imore Community, said he was sleeping in his house when some hoodlums and police came to arrest him that Friday.
“They took me to Police Command at Onikan and locked me up.
“I was released on Saturday with the help of Oba Afeez Oriyomi Shittu, Adeyemi1, Agbojojoye II Olu of Ibasa, Ijegun-Egba land, who came to bail some of us that were in the cell.”
He added that upon his return, he discovered that “hoodlums had taken over all axes of my community in Ijegun and were disturbing the peace of the land.”
He said: “Getting back home on Saturday, I discovered that hoodlums had taken over all axis of my community in Ijegun and continued to disturb the peace of the land.
“They blocked everywhere and were beating and harassing people, even as they claimed to have taken over the community.
“We appeal to the Lagos State Government to intervene now because I cannot even access my palace because the hoodlums would not allow me to gain access to my palace,” he said.
Narrating her ordeal in the hands of the police, a resident of Ijegun-Egba, Mrs Omolara Alebiosu said she, with her three children, was arrested, even as she said she could not fathom the reason for her arrest.
She also said: “About 50 hoodlums, some of whom wore masks, used me and my children as punching bags and forced us into their vehicle.
“We were taken to Ikeja before someone called them on the phone to take us to Zone 2 Onikan.
“They locked us up in a cell on Friday while the traditional ruler came on Saturday to bail some of us while others were released the following Monday.
“When we returned home, we discovered that the land grabbers were everywhere in the community. They harassed us and even told us that the town belongs to them,” she said.
The Chairman of the Youth of Ibasa Ijegun-Egba Satellite Community Mr Kareem Idowu noted that some individuals had written a petition against the community.
According to him, the petitioner said youths of the area were involved in bunkering, and malicious damage of their property and are threatening marketers with guns.
Debunking the claim, Idowu said all were lies, even as he added that he expected the police to do a proper investigation before invading their community for arrests.
“There was nothing like bunkering in our community because one can’t even go near the pipeline because of the presence of naval personnel.
“The community was trying to rebuild the Ogun Shrine to give it a befitting status for the imminent festival.
“Also, no youth wielded any guns, either at the market or in any other part of Ijegun-Egba. We are law-abiding citizens.
“The police should have done some investigations before invading our community. Now, many people have been arrested and detained.”
The youth leader could not come to terms with the rationale behind police invading their community in the company of those he called land grabbers.
He said: “Again, we don’t understand why the police should involve the land grabbers on this issue. Many thugs have been tormenting the residents; claiming that they have taken over our property in Ijegun-Egba.
“We are law-abiding citizens and have a paramount ruler installed by the Lagos State Government.
“Currently, nobody can go to the market or anywhere else. The unfortunate situation has affected the economic situation of the area’s people.
“We appeal to the Lagos State Government to intervene and restore normalcy to our communities as we now live in fear.”
Another resident of the Ibasa Ijegun-Egba, Bukky Ishola, who is the daughter of the Iyaloja-General of Ijegun-Egba Market, said the market was also invaded by the hoodlums who took advantage of the unpleasant situation to steal, harass and beat up many people at the market.
Ishola urged the federal and Lagos State governments to intervene to ensure that normalcy returns to the community. She added that the invasion had affected the socio-economic situation of the area.
“We can’t go to the market any longer. Those who opened their shops are operating in fear that those hoodlums would descend on them at any time.
“The government should not fold its hands and watch them kill us all,” she said.
Chief Nurudeen Alebiosu, the Asobaloju of Ibasa Ijegun-Egba land said the hoodlums are going about with guns and machetes, stopping and extorting commercial motorcycle and tricycle operators. They beat those who are indigenous to the land.
“We appeal to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to come to our aid in Ibasa Ijegun-Egba Community. We are no longer safe here.
“The Inspector-General of Police should also investigate the involvement of his men in this matter.
“Since they left on October 27, the hoodlums have taken over the town; wreaking havoc and beating the citizens,” he said.
A trader at the Ijegun-Egba Market who sells meat, Alhaji Kazeem Salami, said they were not allowed to sell their meat as some of the hoodlums beat and sent their customers away.
Salami called for the government’s intervention so that peace would return to the market and the community.
Mr. Tunde Sanni, a contractor handling the construction of the Ijegun-Egba Market, said the hoodlums seized their tools and other materials and sent workers away from the project.
According to him, it took the intervention of the Chairman of Oriade LCDA for the hoodlums to release the tools.
“Up till now, our workers have not returned to the site because those hoodlums are still around, wreaking havoc on the town and market,” he said.
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for Zone 2 Onikan Superintendent Hauwa Idris-Adamu said she was unaware of the incident.
She said they have many departments in Zone 2. She also promised to find out the department in charge of the case and get back to us.
Lagos Traffic Radio has unveiled live feeds from cameras installed across the state by the government to bring more accurate and believable traffic updates to her listeners, writes ADEYINKA ADERIBIGBE
With the launch of the Live Camera Update (LCU) penultimate Thursday, Lagos Traffic Radio 96.1 FM, Africa’s first traffic-focused radio station, has taken another giant step in leveraging the state’s robust investments in technology infrastructure to deliver more travel advisory to its increasing listeners within and beyond the state.
Determined to sustain the smart city dream of his predecessors, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has embarked on the laying of 6, 000 kilometres of fibre optics around the state in its attempt to improve internet penetration and accessibility to residents.
Not only has it delivered 3,000 kilometres of optics, which effectively linked all government institutions and agencies, it has delivered about 300 Closed Circuit Cameras (CCTV) around the city’s strategic roads to complement its efforts at effectively “capturing real time,” developments as they happen across the state.
In partnership with the State’s Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, headed by Tubosun Alake, the Lagos Traffic Radio has further deepened the bouquet of service of the government with the innovative deployment of CCTV coverage of the state to bring live feeds of traffic situations across the covered areas to its listeners.
In other words, right from its studios, the radio station could see the state’s roads’ traffic and use it to relay travel advisory to millions of its listeners to make informed decisions about their travels or journeys even before they leave their homes.
Before the coming of Lagos Traffic Radio in 2012, residents were often at the mercy of other stations which offered traffic reports just as tokens of social service only during rush hours–mornings and evenings.
Before this giant leap, which the station’s General Manager, Tayo Akanle admitted has taken over two years of careful planning and training, the radio station had relied on live feeds from the Lagos State Traffic Management Agency (LASTMA) personnel posted to various road beats to relay live feeds straight to the studio, traffic situations in their various areas.
For more robust coverage, the station also enjoys a strategic partnership with the Ogun State’s Traffic Regulations and Compliance and Enlightenment Agency (TRACE), and the Federal Roads Safety Corps (FRSC) both of which helped to cover roads, especially in the border communities lacking LASTMA’s critical presence.
Akanle averred that the station, from inception has been partnering with the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, whose officers are often referred to as “Traffic Managers” collate traffic information, while the station uses the power of radio to communicate to the public, who in turn, uses such information to plan their journey.
This effort is also complimented by officers of the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, TRACE Monitors in neighbouring Ogun State and motorists who also supply traffic information using the “Eyewitness Report Strategy.”
Challenged by the need to sustain the THEMES + agenda of the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration, and make more robust travel information available to its listeners, the station partnered with the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology to deploy the state’s huge technology to install the CCTV in travel/traffic coverage.
Akanle believed that the live camera project would boost traffic reportage and updates including travel advisories by providing real-time traffic information for the motoring public and commuters within and outside the state.
Corroborating his boss, the Deputy Director of Programmes and Presenter of Your Side Mirror, Victor Oteri recalled several instances where callers had given wrong information which had been relayed only for LASTMA officials on the ground to counter much later.
Oteri believes the deployment of technology would remove such doubts and make its audience believe it more as real-time feeds from the cameras would give life situations on the roads.
Akanle said the governor’s approval of the project has further gone to show his commitment to ensuring that citizens have accurate information that could help make informed traffic management decisions.
He said from its studios, Traffic Radio will receive these feeds directly and translate them into real-time traffic information for commuters and motorists.
The process of connection, he further stated, entails an initial site survey, laying of fibre cables to connect the station’s studios, termination and configuration of connection to the data centre, software installation and testing, and staff training among others.
He said: “As part of its operational reforms towards finding a solution to traffic congestion in the state, the station birthed Motorbike Live Report in which trained Motorbike Live Reporters, give prompt and adequate information live from incident scenes across the metropolis.
The General Manager noted that the station also explored new vistas of opportunities in a bid to expand the horizon for her teeming audience and reflect the Traffic Management and Transportation “T” pillar of the T.H.E.M.E.S PLUS agenda by introducing the provision of live reports from the waterways to encourage Lagos residents to embrace water transportation to further decongest the roads.
Akanle hinted that “the station also provides information on flight schedules for local travellers to plan their journey, as well as shipping position on the number of ships berthing at the Ports,” adding that “due to the current realities, the station has also moved from the initial provision of 15 minutes interval for traffic updates to 10 minutes.”
This, according to him, was achieved by re-energising the official social media platforms through the application of tried–and–tested social media strategies and home-grown initiatives, pointing out that this has greatly provided the much-needed leap in the radio’s audience on these social media platforms such as Facebook, which grew from 4,000 likes in 2019 to 76,000 likes in 2023, X (formerly Twitter) which had 15,000 followers in 2019, also grew to 56,000 followers, while live streaming has also been embraced in all the station’s programmes; thus giving its online audience a new experience as they can now view all programmes and presenters through live video from the studio.
While inaugurating the service, Sanwo-Olu praised the Traffic Radio and its management for its commitment to driving the transportation and traffic management component of the THEMES plus agenda and for deepening the Smart City initiative by deploying cameras to road traffic coverage.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi said the project would further boost the administration’s determination to continue to deploy technology to drive effectiveness and efficiency in every facet of government’s operations and service delivery.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso said the inauguration of the ‘Live Camera Update’ will assist commuters to plan their journey and reduce their travel time drastically.
Omotoso, under whose ministry the station is, noted that the ‘Live Camera Update’ will cover over 300 roads and highways in the state in the first instance; and this is expected to grow to about 3,000 roads shortly as more cameras are installed around the state.
He commended the management and members of staff of the station for always thinking out of the box in their determination to bring more comfort to the people of the state who are usually stressed out in traffic.
The Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Tunbosun Alake saluted the doggedness of the station’s General Manager for the actualisation of the project.
Alake, who was represented by Adeyinka Sorungbe, a Director in the ministry, pledged more support for the station. He noted that more cameras will be installed in line with the THEMES Plus agenda of the state government.
During the build-up to the 2023 general elections, some dyed-in-the-wool critics of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had dismissed his policy document or manifesto as something unattainable. On assumption of office, President Tinubu unveiled a more vivid eight-point agenda to turn around the economy and make life comfortable for all Nigerians. In this piece, STANLEY NKWOCHA, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications (Office of the Vice-President) writes that efforts by the President and Vice-President to realise their dreams of pulling the country out of the woods are paying off through a flurry of economic diplomacy
In his 80-page Renewed Hope policy document released in the build-up to the 2023 general elections, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu listed some action plans.
Top on his priority lists were national security, economy, agriculture, power, oil and gas, transportation and education. He said his objective was to foster a new society based on shared prosperity, tolerance, compassion, and the unwavering commitment to handling each citizen with equal respect and due regard.
And to ensure his campaign promises unfold into a pleasant reality, the President, at the maiden Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held in August, unveiled a more vivid eight-point agenda to turn around the economy and make life comfortable for all Nigerians.
Encapsulating the action plans in the 8-point agenda, he relisted the eight priority areas to include food security, ameliorating poverty, economic growth and job creation, access to capital, improving security, rule of law, fighting corruption and improving the playing field on which people, particularly companies operate.
Since assuming office, President Tinubu has unleashed a flurry of economic diplomacy stemming from his notion that the prestige of any country among the comity of nations is proportionally dependent on its social and economic realities, which explains why governments around the world embark on missions to create an enabling environment to attract local and foreign investments.
Beyond the avalanche of domestic reforms being implemented to create an investment-friendly Nigeria, the President and his deputy have also assumed the position of Nigeria’s marketers-in-chief.
At the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) held from September 20-23, 2023 where he delivered his maiden address to the General Assembly on September 20, President Tinubu shot straight, telling the world that “the greatest economy is Nigeria with immense investment opportunities.”
He noted that Africa is not a problem to be avoided or pitied. He said: “Africa is nothing less than the key to the world’s future.”
The Tinubu government is only five months old in office, but within this period, V-P Shettima and his boss have struck a balance never seen in this part of the globe.
The cumulative effects of this synergy are the positive issues arising from the presidential global engagements that have continued to dominate headlines and possibly for some time to come. Some of the high-hanging fruits, which have resonated well with Nigerians, came in handy by way of the recent bumper achievements recorded by the Nigerian delegation under the leadership of President Tinubu to the 3rd Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Forum in China, as well as the Norman Borlaug International Dialogue, World Food Prize 2023, in Des Moines, Iowa, United States of America.
In China where significant milestones in the nation’s journey towards economic prosperity were made, V-P Shettima joined world leaders from over 130 countries in Africa, Asia, Europe and Latin America at the forum to deliberate on the theme “High-quality Belt and Road Cooperation: Together for Common Development and Prosperity.” The Vice-President availed Nigeria of the platform provided by the forum to woo investors for more developmental projects at high-powered bilateral meetings with other world leaders. He also promoted Nigeria’s trade and investment relations in line with the economic development agenda of the Tinubu administration.
One of the most significant breakthroughs was China’s renewed commitment to the completion of the long-awaited Lagos-Ibadan, Abuja-Kano and Port Harcourt-Maiduguri railway projects, as well as the Lagos-Ibadan railway.
This, economic experts believe, will not only revolutionise the country’s transportation sector but also foster regional connectivity and economic integration. Moreover, the commitments in power generation and digital economy mark crucial steps towards addressing Nigeria’s energy challenges and advancing technological innovations, crucial for sustaining long-term growth.
The signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) valued at $2 billion, alongside the $4 billion worth of letters of intent, reflects the substantial inflow of foreign direct investment into key sectors such as technology, automotive and infrastructure, underlining the growing confidence of international partners in Nigeria’s economic potential.
These agreements, which include partnerships with the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) and various Chinese corporations, are poised to drive job creation, technological advancements and overall economic diversification.
Furthermore, the agreement on the construction of the Lekki Deep Blue Seaport contract is a testament to the enduring appeal of Nigeria as a premier investment destination. Such projects not only bolster Nigeria’s status as a regional economic powerhouse but also solidify its position as an industrial hub; attracting diverse industries and promoting sustainable economic growth.
The collaborations with renowned Chinese companies, encompassing fields such as technology, construction and communications underscore the multifaceted nature of the strengthened Nigeria-China relationship, ushering in an era of enhanced technical capabilities, infrastructure development and knowledge transfer.
At the Norman Borlaug International Dialogue, World Food Prize 2023, in Des Moines, Iowa, United States, it was another bumper harvest, as Vice-President Shettima wooed investors from the United States and other countries.
He said Nigeria remains the best place to invest given its 70 million hectares of underutilised arable land, which he said is 75 per cent of the country’s total land mass. He told them that, under President Tinubu’s watch, Nigeria has since demonstrated that the Agrifood sector is a top priority.
An instant gain from the V-P’s engagement in that country was the resolve by an American company, John Deere to invest in Nigeria’s agricultural sector, first by setting up a tractor assembly plant in Nigeria. The decision was taken during a meeting between V-P Shettima and top officials of the firm led by its Vice-President of Production Systems, Mr Jason Brantley.
The meeting was facilitated by the Chairman of Flour Mills of Nigeria, Mr John Coumantaros, a long-time investor in Nigeria.
Just as one would think it was already enough takeaways, the African Development Bank (AfDB), Islamic Development Bank (IDB) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development announced at the Norman Borlaug International Dialogue that they have voted a whopping $1 billion to further deliver on the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZs) in 24 states of Nigeria.
President of the African Development Bank Group, Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina said the decision to pump such huge funds was to develop SAPZs in 13 countries.
President Tinubu’s administration’s strategic efforts to create an environment conducive to business and investment have, undoubtedly, paved the way for these remarkable achievements. The emphasis on fostering mutual international cooperation and the removal of bureaucratic bottlenecks demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to building robust partnerships that prioritise respect, mutual benefit and non-interference. These are essential pillars for sustainable global relations.
Just as V-P Shettima told the investors in the United States that Nigeria is committed to transforming agriculture as a pathway to tackling insecurity and improving the livelihoods of smallholder farmers, President Tinubu is, indeed, taking the courageous decision to revamp Nigeria’s economy. There may be painful reforms as certain opposition elements are trying to project them before the citizens, but they are necessary to ensure the long-term sustainability of the country’s economy.
Tony Blair, a former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, once said: “Anyone can say yes, but the hallmark of leadership is the ability to say no when you should.”
This statement underscores the inevitability of courageous decisions in leadership, and it is a quality that President Tinubu has demonstrated in unmistakable terms.
On the other hand, Vice-President Shettima is another leader who embodies the qualities of loyalty, courage and vision. In a country where tribalism and regionalism are often used to divide and conquer, Shettima remains a staunch believer in the unity and progress of Nigeria.
The VP has consistently demonstrated his commitment to a united Nigeria where every citizen is treated equally, regardless of their tribe or ethnicity.
As the country progresses on this path of growth and innovation, it is imperative to sustain this momentum, ensuring that the benefits of these partnerships are effectively harnessed for the holistic advancement of Nigeria and its people as the power of strategic alliances and international cooperation in fostering sustainable development and economic prosperity cannot be overemphasised.
