The Nation Newspaper

Category: Saturday Magazine

  • ‘I got married at 17, had 21 children from 12 ‘baby mamas’

    ‘I got married at 17, had 21 children from 12 ‘baby mamas’

    Raymond Hogans, who celebrated his 64th birthday in St. Louis, Missouri America recently, narrates his life journey with our reporter, Taiwo Abiodun 

    HE is a man of few words. His infectious smile could melt an ice bag. He is cool and gentle and humility personified. He walks in the manner of a king and dresses as if it is for a dressing competition; always in his cap and trade mark bling-bling.

    Raymond Hogans’ dress sense is unique. He was a ladies’ man in his youth. He is always spotted in the crowd not because of his light skin but for his dress sense. In fact, you would hardly know he is going to work.

    At 64, the soft-spoken gentleman and grandfather has many attributes that make him earn respect from his colleagues and co-workers. Welcome to the life of Ray Hogans; a man who has seen it all.

    Asked to introduce himself, he parted his lips with a smile. “My name is Raymond Hogans. I came from a poor family in Mississippi. My grandmother had 13 kids, but they are all dead. She decided to leave Mississippi and came down to St. Louis here to settle down.

    “I graduated from Central High School, St. Louis, Missouri.”

    Marriage

    The ladies’ man did not deny his virility as a young man.

    He said: ”I got married at the age of 17. I went into the military from 1978 to 1984. I have 14 girls, seven boys, 89 grandchildren and 12 baby mamas.”

    In America where child support (welfare of the children) is compulsory and could land  the father in jail if he defaults, the man, who loves his children, said he paid child support for 40 years.

    In his own words: ”I paid child support for 40 years and I am free now. I stopped paying it three years ago. I worked all my life paying child support.

    What would have happened if he didn’t pay? the reporter asked. To this, he said he could end up in jail, according to the Law of the United States of America. ”I didn’t want to be jailed, so I had to work for 40 hours every week for 40 years.”

    Explaining what led him into having many baby mamas, he said his first marriage was bad.

    He said: “I was young then and was there messing around with a lot of girls, and it happened!” Asked why he took another wife, he responded: ”The same thing. I failed being a youth. It was bad.”

    Pressed further on how he got the fourth, the fifth and the rest, he also attributed it to ”my bad marriage”.

    First baby mama

    Asked about his first baby mama, Hogans said: ”My first Baby Mama was my first wife. We grew up together as kids in high school, but she died later.”

    Hogans said he had both white and black baby mamas who had children for him.

    He said: “I had a white Baby Mama who had 11 kids for me while the rest black baby mamas had one, two or three kids, and altogether, they are 21 kids.”

    No regrets

    Asked whether he regretted having a lot of children and baby mamas, he nodded his head in the negative. ”No, no, I love my children. That is my hobby,” he said. He however said he does not need any more kids or baby mamas as he has put a full stop to it.

    Hogans could not keep his baby mamas for long. Asked about all his baby mamas now, he said in low tone: “Four are dead and eight are still living, as they went their ways to remarry.”

    Asked what he would say if he were to counsel the youths of today, he said with a smile: “Stay in school. Have education. Don’t make all these babies, because you will never have money!”

    Could he have followed in his father’s footsteps? The 64-year-old man dropped his head and threw a bombshell: “I don’t know my dad. He died when I was barely six years old. So I didn’t know him. My mother trained me. “

    Hogans said her mother had six children with him as the eldest.

    “My mother had six of us: three boys and three girls, and I am the oldest,” he said. He however added that his children do not give him money because he too works to sustain himself.

    “No, they don’t give me money for I can take care of myself,” he told the reporter.

    Asked whether his children do ask him why he had many women and large number of children and grandchildren, he responded: ”Yes, they do. But then I was young. I messed around with a lot of women. I see all my children and grandkids when I want to.”

    Hogans, however, said he does not want babies again. ”No, no, I don’t want babies again,” he said, raising his hands up in total surrender.

    Asked about his dressing, the 64year-old looked at himself and smiled. He fiddled with his grey beard and said: ”I always dress good. I don’t know why.  I have about 200 caps, a lot of designer sneakers and shoes. I have a lot of necklaces and hand chains. I love to wear good clothes , bling bling and shoes. Yes, I love to dress good.”

  • Troops killed 814 ‘terrorists’, arrest 1326 suspects in three months

    Troops killed 814 ‘terrorists’, arrest 1326 suspects in three months

    • Over six million litres of stolen crude recovered

    Troops on operations across the country killed 814 suspected terrorists and arrested 1,326 others in the past three months, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) said yesterday.

    It said the troops recovered 6,652,250 litres of stolen crude worth over N4 billion, 3,577 livestock, 501 weapons, 3,600 ammunition and rescued 721 kidnap victims within the period under review.

    The Director of Defence Media Operations (DDMO), Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, said these at a briefing in Abuja.

    According to him, troops killed 80 suspected Indigenous Peoples of Biafra/ Eastern Security Network (IPOB/ESN) fighters in the South East, arrested 42 kidnappers and received 4,560 terrorists and members of their families who surrendered to troops at different locations in the North East.

    Read Also: Fed Govt to review presidential power projects

    The Defence spokesperson said troops of Operation Hadin Kai in the North West killed 240 terrorists, arrested 276 collaborators, and rescued 249 kidnap victims. He said the troops also recovered 169 different caliber weapons and 1,196 ammunition.

    On troops operations in the North Central zone, Buba said 94 terrorists were killed and  477 arrested, adding that 76 kidnap victims were rescued and 76 firearms, ammunition and 1,722 livestock recovered.

    Troops of Operations Hadarin Daji and Whirl Punch in the North West, he said, killed 105 terrorists and arrested 104 collaborators.

    On troops operations against oil thieves and illegal bunkerers in Southsouth, the Defence Spokesperson said 69 criminals were neutralised and 191 others arrested.

    Buba noted that the military would continue to apply strong pressure on criminal groups undermining the national security of the country.

    “It is clear that the terrorists and their cohorts cannot win in the face of ongoing military pressure against them,” he said.

  • Police arrest 10 suspects over death of missing FUOYE student

    Police arrest 10 suspects over death of missing FUOYE student

    • Assembly invites security chiefs, FUOYE boss

    The Ekiti State Police Command has arrested 10 suspects in connection with the death of a 200-level Nursing student of the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), Atanda Modupe Deborah.

    Deborah was declared missing on Monday after she went for a night reading in the Nursing Department of the institution but was later found dead in a shallow grave behind the nursing Lecture Hall.

    In a statement yesterday, the  Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Sunday Abutu, said the perpetrators would face the wrath of the law, appealing to the public to remain calm.

    Abutu who condemned the murder of the student, commiserated with her family and vowed that those behind the act would be punished.

    He assured the deceased family of the command’s commitment to unravel the mystery behind Deborah’s death, urging anyone with any useful  information concerning the ugly incident to visit the Oye-Ekiti Divisional Police Headquarters, the State CIID or call 09064050086/08053499199.

    Read Also; CBN, NCC resolve N150b USSD debt impasse

    Meanwhile, the Ekiti State House of Assembly has invited all heads of security agencies in the state to brief the lawmakers on security breaches recently witnessed in some parts of the state.

    The security chiefs are expected to appear before a Joint Committee of the House on Monday, September 11, at 10am with a view to address the incidences of kidnapping which led to the death of a resident and abduction of five others.

    The invitation of the heads of security agencies was one of the three resolutions passed by the lawmakers at the plenary yesterday after they expressed concerns on the security situation in the state under Matters of Urgent Public Importance.

    The House at the plenary presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, also invited the management of FUOYE to appear before the Committee on Education to shed light on the circumstances surrounding Deborah’s murder.

    The lawmaker representing Oye Constituency 2, Idowu Odebunmi, said the FUOYE incident should be used as a signal to curb similar future occurrences urging the House to extend invitations to Vice Chancellors of Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti; Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere Ekiti and the Rector of Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan Ekiti to know the security situations on their campuses.

    He advocated the installation of Close Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras on the internal roads at FUOYE and the conduct of an autopsy on the remains of the student to shed more light on the circumstances surrounding her gruesome killing.

  • Bandits kill 30 in Abuja suburb, about 19 kidnapped

    Bandits kill 30 in Abuja suburb, about 19 kidnapped

    • Wike orders local surveillance

    Landslides caused by activities of illegal miners have killed 30 persons in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    The incident occurred last Thursday at Kuje Area Council,  the chairman, Abdullahi Sabo, told FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike at the maiden meeting between the minister and the six area council chairmen yesterday.

    Wike was also briefed about yesterday’s kidnap of 19 persons in the Bwari Area Council of the FCT.

    While briefing the FCT Minister on the challenges confronting the area councils, Danladi Chiya, Kwali Area Council Boss, said they needed assistance.

    He said: “When we had about your appointment, we were happy because you have been a Council Chairman and therefore understand our challenges. Our challenges are inadequate funding of the local government system.

    “We have the major challenge of insecurity across the six Area Councils. Just today (Thursday), about 19 people were kidnapped in Bwari Area Council. I just received about five in my council who were in captivity for about six days.

    Read Also: Fed Govt to review presidential power projects

    “The next is the development of satellite towns. The issue of sanitation is one of the major challenges confronting us.

    “There is also no efficient transport facility. The Abuja Urban Mass transit buses are no longer functional.

    “Then there is the issue of land allocation. You sit in your council, and your backyard will be allocated to someone you don’t even know. Your graveyards and worship centres would be allocated and we are saying that we should be carried along in terms of land allocation.

    “The responsibility of primary school teachers is on the local governments. The UBE’s payment of salaries lies on the council which by law is supposed to be 60-40 per cent. We are pleading that you help us so that this issue can be looked into.”

    Giving details on the death of 30 people, Sabo said illegal mining activities were fuelled by indiscriminate issuance of licenses.

    “They give letters of consent to Chinese people. Just a few days ago, there was a landslide that took the lives of 30 people as a result of the activities of illegal miners. We appeal to you to engage the Minister of Mines to stop mining in the FCT.”

    On his part, Chairman, Bwari Area Council, John Gabaya, advocated greater inclusion of council chairmen in land allocations.

    “Sometime ago in 2017, I was a Council Staff then. All the council lands departments are centralized in Area 11 and since then there is no way of checkmating their activities.

    “If you look at Dutse, you will see unplanned developments and you would be wondering who is controlling them. We only watch. We can’t do anything because we can’t control them.”

    Shocked by the reports from the council chairmen, Wike promised to summon the FCT Director of State Security Services and the Commissioner of Police for adequate briefings and to facilitate rescue operations for the kidnapped victims.

    He also asked the chairmen to set up surveillance taskforce in their respective areas to monitor mining activities, adding that he would meet with the Minister for Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, to eliminate illegal mining in the FCT.

    He said: “I am here to work for the FCT, not to work for any political party. I am here to support the administration of Asiwaju to realize the dreams of the founding fathers. It doesn’t matter your political affiliations or religion, I am here to serve all.

    “We cannot achieve anything without support from the councils. We are not struggling for power and so we have to collaborate.

    “It is in your interest as council chairmen to work for the people and that you can do by collaborating with us. What affects you affects me and so I will not be anywhere and allow Area Councils to be shortchanged.

    “I will want to advise that we manage what we have but we will work to ensure that you get what you are supposed to get and nobody will shortchange you.

    “Insecurity is a major problem all over and those of you who are outside the municipality, you have to work hard. Information is key. The incident of kidnap you talked about, nobody has reported that to me.

    “It is a serious issue and we need to call an emergency security meeting. I have to call the Director of SSS and the CP now to give me more details because it is very embarrassing to me. I am happy you said the SSS official and the DPO in the affected council are informed and on the situation.

    “On sanitation, we have a problem. Sanitation is a big issue. It is the duty of the council not just to collect the fees but to dispose of refuse. We have to sit down and work together on this by adopting a common template.

    “On illegal mining, I will talk to the minister. Ordinarily, I would say you should also form your own surveillance taskforce as Chief Security Officers of your councils and make arrests and we will support you. However, I will meet with the minister.”

    Earlier, Minister of State, FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, and the Permanent Secretary, Olusade Adesola, expressed the willingness of the administration to continue to partner the councils to ensure even development of the territory.

  • Doctor held over alleged kidney harvesting

    Doctor held over alleged kidney harvesting

    The Plateau State Police Command yesterday confirmed the arrest of a medical doctor over allegations he harvested a patient’s kidney during a surgical procedure.

    The command also confirmed it was investigating the case which was filed by the patient’s husband, Alhaji Kamal, a Jos businessman.

    Spokesman for the police command, DSP Alfred Alabo, confirmed these to The Nation on telephone, adding that the complainant accused the doctor of harvesting his wife’s kidney and subjecting her to chronic pain in the last five years.

    He narrated that sometime in 2018, his wife, Kehinde complained of stomach ache and she was rushed to the said doctor’s clinic in the Nasarawa Gwong area of Jos North.

    He said the doctor diagnosed his wife and concluded that she had appendicitis that had ruptured and needed urgent surgery.

    Read Also; CBN, NCC resolve N150b USSD debt impasse

    Kamal, a resident of the Rikkos area of Jos North said: “About eight years ago, my mum was sick so she was directed and she visited a hospital owned by one Dr. Noah Kekere at Yanshanu, Nasarawa Gwong community of Jos North local government area and in the process of going to the see my mum in the hospital, I got acquainted with the doctor.

    “When my wife fell sick in 2018, complaining of severe stomach pain, my mum encouraged us to take her there because my wife used to follow my mum to see the doctor when my mum was sick. As we got there, the doctor did a scan and said my wife had ruptured appendicitis and must be operated upon immediately and he charged us N140,000.

    “When I called some people to ask about the high bill as I planned to take her to JUTH, they advised we should just go ahead and save her life.

    “The doctor asked how much I had and I said N80,000, apart from other charges for drugs but after the operation, my wife was still complaining about the pain and the man kept collecting money from me all these years.

    “The day the doctor conducted the operation, he started the operation from 12pm till 8pm and for the past five years, my wife kept complaining of severe stomach pains, I continued to take her to the same hospital because I did not want to change the doctor that started the treatment.

    “As she continued to have the pains, I decided to go to the Jos University Teaching Hospital, JUTH a few days ago where we discovered that one of my wife’s kidneys was removed.

    “We reported the matter to the Police at Nasarawa Gwong and the doctor was arrested two days ago. The case has been  transferred to the Commissioner of Police,” he added.

  • Malnutrition: Stakeholders call for more robust food fortification laws

    Malnutrition: Stakeholders call for more robust food fortification laws

    Nutrition plays a pivotal role in bolstering productivity and fostering economic prosperity. Nevertheless, the escalating rates of malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies within Nigeria are raising concerns about their potential to undermine productivity and jeopardise the nation’s economy. In response to these concerns, a collaborative roundtable event hosted by the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Center (CISLAC), the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), and E-Health Africa convened stakeholders. Their collective call to action implored the government to vigorously enforce food fortification policies through legislation, with the aim of reversing this troubling trend. Associate Editor ADEKUNLE YUSUF reports

    As far as public gatherings go, this particular meeting stood out as a resounding success in terms of attendance. All attendees, evidently impassioned, echoed a singular sentiment: bolstering nutrition holds the key to lowering the societal disease burden. An equally pressing need was underscored – the imperative of disseminating awareness regarding the significance of food fortification, a catalyst that could stimulate demand for fortified food products to the advantage of the entire populace.

    Convened as a follow-up to a recent event on the issue, this meeting drew assembly of key stakeholders. Among the participants were representatives from health and food regulatory bodies, legislators, nutrition experts, prominent food producers, civil society organisations, and a cadre of journalists hailing from diverse media outlets who dissected the issues under the theme, “Fortifying Nigeria’s Future: Interface Session with Stakeholders (State and Non-state Actors) Towards Promoting Fortification Compliance and Workforce Nutrition.” The venue was the Mariott Hotel, nestled in the heart of Ikeja, the capital of Lagos State, where stakeholders undertook a comprehensive evaluation of the progress achieved thus far, identified the prevailing challenges, and collectively crafted a comprehensive communiqué delineating their observations and recommendations.

    Fueled by a growing concern over malnutrition’s debilitating impact on Nigerians, particularly the youth and the nation as a whole, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), in collaboration with the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) and e-Health Africa, organised the roundtable to sound a wake-up call to Nigeria’s policymakers about the country’s deteriorating malnutrition crisis. According to organisers of the event, the primary objective was to heighten awareness surrounding the imperative of fortification compliance and bolstering workforce nutrition in Nigeria. It was driven by a shared belief between the organisers and the media that endorsing healthier dietary practices can play a pivotal role in shaping public opinion and catalysing policy transformations conducive to food fortification and enhanced nutrition standards in Nigeria.

    In his inaugural address, the Executive Director of CISLAC, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, emphasised that Nigeria currently grapples with a severe nutrition crisis. This crisis forms the backdrop against which the organisers’ intervention must be understood, as they advocate for food fortification as a potent means to elevate nutrition standards, invigorate public health, and enhance the nation’s overall prosperity. In his address, Rafsanjani revisited a concern he had expressed back in May this year by drawing the participants’ attention to the persistent and severe nutrition crisis that Nigeria, as a nation, continues to grapple with. This crisis, he stressed, underscored the urgent need for the intervention advocated by the organisers: the adoption of food fortification as a proven strategy for enhancing not only nutrition and health but also the nation’s overall prosperity.

    Read Also: Nigeria recorded surge in malnutrition cases in last five years, says USAID

    Citing data from the National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) for 2022, Rafsanjani highlighted some alarming statistics. He noted that 44.1% of children under the age of 5 in Nigeria were stunted, signifying chronic malnutrition. Although this figure represented a slight decrease from 46.0% in 2018, it remained unacceptably high and raised concerns about long-term health and developmental repercussions. Additionally, he pointed out that 20.3% of children under 5 were wasted, indicating acute malnutrition—a life-threatening condition. Furthermore, the NDHS reported that 18.7% of Nigerian adults were overweight, with 4.4% classified as obese. These rates had increased from 17.4% and 3.4%, respectively, in 2018. Rafsanjani emphasised that overweight and obesity were significant risk factors for chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. He asserted that addressing these health challenges necessitated effective and sustainable food fortification compliance and workforce nutrition initiatives in Nigeria.

     Rafsanjani underscored the importance of organisations taking workforce nutrition seriously to enhance their employees’ productivity through the implementation of relevant measures. He advocated for food fortification as the established path forward, characterising it as a simple, cost-effective intervention for incorporating essential nutrients into commonly consumed foods among large populations. He also pointed out that the Nigerian government had developed regulations and mandatory food fortification policies in 2009 and 2019, respectively. These policies aimed to promote food fortification and were overseen by three key agencies—NAFDAC, FCCPC, and SON— all represented at the event. Rafsanjani acknowledged the agencies’ efforts in implementing and monitoring compliance with these policies, highlighting that more progress needs to be made.

     According to him, food fortification is a proven way to improve nutrition and health as it prevents micronutrient deficiencies, such as anemia, vitamin A deficiency, and iodine deficiency. Although adults spend more than half of their active hours of the day at work, the workforce is vulnerable to malnutrition, he added. “Workers who are not getting the nutrients they need are more likely to be sick, less productive.  This can have a significant impact on the economy. To ensure a healthy workforce, he suggested that employers should provide their workers with the nutrients they need, as fortification can help to reduce absenteeism, increase productivity, and improve safety.”

     He appealed to the media to help in raising awareness of the importance of food fortification and workforce nutrition as the media plays a critical role in shaping public opinion and influencing policies, adding that by focusing on the issue, the media could attract the attention of policymakers to it and save millions of Nigerian children from the pangs and pains of malnutrition. Given the persistent challenge of malnutrition, the interface session became essential for organisers and participants to collectively brainstorm on further steps. This was despite the government’s endeavours to achieve a well-nourished population through regulatory and mandatory food fortification policies. In closing, Rafsanjani issued a rallying cry: “We need to work together to ensure that all mandatory food vehicles (local and imported) sold in Nigeria are fortified with essential vitamins and minerals. We have a number of challenges to overcome, but I am confident that we can achieve this goal if we work together.”

     During the Interface Session facilitated by Senator Ibrahim Yahaya Oloriegbe, Health System Consultant and immediate Past Chairman Senate Committee on Health, various speakers and stakeholders addressed critical issues related to food fortification and workforce nutrition. Goodwill messages were delivered by Mr. Laoye Jaiyeola, the CEO of NESG; Dr. Michael Ojo, Country Director of GAIN; House of Representatives members Dennis Idahosa and Amos Magaji; and Mr. John Uruakpa from the Federal Ministry of Health. Presentations centered on the monitoring of compliance, the status of food fortification, and challenges faced by regulators. Representatives from key agencies such as the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON), and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) shared their insights. In addition, Toju Ogele, the Programme Manager of E-Health Africa, delivered a presentation on data from other studies regarding the status of fortification compliance.

     Senator Oloriegbe highlighted the direct relationship between proper nutrition and optimal productivity, asserting that the nation’s economic prosperity hinged on addressing this issue. He called on the media to fulfill its role as an “opinion moulder” by actively seeking information and knowledge on nutrition, advocating for improved nutrition practices, and disseminating information to the public. He defined nutrition as the science of food in relation to health and malnutrition as the absence of proper nutrition. He underscored that the nation had reached a crucial juncture where enacting a law to enforce compliance with food fortification policies and urging companies in the sector to prioritise effective workforce nutrition programs was imperative.

     He further explained, “You may have food but cannot eat, and you can eat but have no food to eat. If you consume food that your body cannot process, it is essentially equivalent to being susceptible to malnutrition. We need legislation that obliges nutritional companies to provide nutrition for their workforce because currently, it is optional. Such a law should mandate compliance with food fortification and the promotion of workforce nutrition in Nigeria.”

    Oloriegbe stressed the interconnectedness of various aspects of nutrition, including the health of pregnant women and infants, and the well-being of the workforce. He expressed concern over the more than two million malnourished children under the age of five in Nigeria and called for swift action from the government and all stakeholders in the food and fortification sector to address this issue. He also advocated for the right to proper food intake among workers in the food and fortification industry, emphasising that individuals without access to good nutrition were more prone to illness and unproductivity.

     In his address, Magaji, Chairman of the House of Reps Committee on Health Institutions, emphasised the importance of political will in enforcing food fortification and workforce nutrition policies. He advocated for legislation to ensure compliance and urged authorities to prioritise the health of the Nigerian population and the nation’s economic development; while Idahosa, Chairman of the House of Reps Committee on Healthcare Services, stressed the need to raise awareness about food fortification and its benefits, with a focus on generating demand for fortified food products. He highlighted that the challenge was not a lack of work plans or laws but the need to strengthen regulations for enforcement.

     For Uruakpa, Director of Micronutrient Deficiency Control at the Federal Ministry of Health, there is compliance at the regulatory level, but issues usually arise when products reach the market. He noted that some industries cut corners, and effective monitoring and enforcement were essential. Mr. Jaiyeola, CEO of NESG, emphasised the importance of nutrition-sensitive policies and programs to address malnutrition’s underlying determinants, including poverty and food insecurity. He stressed the need to improve access to high-quality diets, such as fortified food products, to enhance immune functions and cognitive skills.

     The Country Director of GAIN, Dr. Ojo, discussed the organisation’s efforts over its 21-year history to combat malnutrition, acknowledging the existence of a comprehensive national food fortification programme but noted that it could be more effective in delivering micronutrients to vulnerable populations. He highlighted that the programme could be improved to the point where consumers do not need to question whether their food is fortified. If all commonly consumed foods are fortified as required, the system will naturally deliver the necessary micronutrients to the population.

     “We have inspired wider national and global action by influencing government policies with evidence and learning from practice. We have catalysed alliances and facilitated public and private sector engagements and investments in the transformation of food systems so that they deliver healthier diets, especially for the most vulnerable. GAIN has evolved its work in Nigeria over the years. We started life in Nigeria firmly focussed on Large-scale Food Fortification (LSFF) – a proven, cost-effective, and scalable intervention to deliver essential nutrients to people through commonly consumed staples and condiments.

     “However, as our understanding of the drivers of malnutrition evolved, we have engaged more and more with tackling the root cause of all forms of malnutrition – diets (or unhealthy diets) – by focussing on food systems and how they can be transformed. In spite of that evolution, LSFF still remains a significant part of our work in Nigeria. We have a comprehensive and mature national food fortification programme that is subscribed to by the private sector, largely understood by the population, with established regulatory structures and oversight with SON, NAFDAC and FCCPC.

     “But there is a gap. The programme is not as effective as we would expect to be in delivering micronutrients to vulnerable population. The good thing about LSFF, if done properly, is that people don’t even need to think about whether the food is fortified. These are foods that people commonly consume (wheat, maize, oil, salt, sugar, etc). If all food is fortified as they should, the system simply delivers the micronutrients! We have done fantastically well with iodine deficiency. But we know that deficiencies of vitamin A, B-vitamins, zinc and iron remain at alarming levels in some of the critical populations – children under 5, adolescents and Women of Reproductive Age (WRA).

     “We have a few beacon companies performing extremely well. There are many others however who are not complying, and by so doing, securing undue advantage over those that comply but more importantly shortchanging Nigerians by delivering supposedly fortified foods without the fortification or at lower levels than required. Another reason is that regulatory oversight is not as rigorous as it should be, just as there are unnecessary overlaps in responsibilities, which places undue burdens on business and reduces the overall effectiveness of regulation.”

  • Tinubu: Tackling challenges of first 100 days

    Tinubu: Tackling challenges of first 100 days

    Much was expected of President Bola Tinubu, following his inauguration on May 29. How has he been able to grapple with the mounting challenges? Deputy Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU examines the steps taken so far by the administration to fulfil its campaign promises in the last 100 days.

    The first 100 days have been devoted to laying a strong, solid and sound foundation by President Bola Tinubu,  who is conscious of the enormity of challenges and weight of responsibility on the shoulder of his young administration.

    Nigerians are in a hurry. They want quick solutions to pressing issues that have confronted the country for decades. They want magic from the three-month old administration. Thus, there is gap between expectation and reality.

    It has been a learning process for an outstanding politician and statesman, whose last outing as an elected public officer at the cenre was 30 years ago, when he was just settling down as a senator.

    Certain right steps have been taken to advance the cause of democracy and good governance by the President. Not unexpectedly, some avoidable mistakes may have been made. But, generally, the administration has been bold and courageous to take decisive steps, thereby stepping on some toes.

    Power did not land on the palm of Asiwaju Tinubu on a platter of gold. Neither did he inherit an economically buoyant country. He had inherited a country on the edge, which should be pulled from the brink it had been boxed by some inactions of preceding regimes and unresolved challenges of insecurity, economic quagmire, depleting foreign reserve, soaring national debt, outstanding labour disputes and disunity in the country.

    In a bid to bridge the loopholes and checkmate revenue loss due to fuel subsidy, the Federal Government drew the curtains on the regime of subsidy. The measure, which was grossly misunderstood, has unleashed temporarily hardship which the umbrella labour union, the representative of less than 10 percent of the entire population, has amplified as a prelude to an unwarranted strike.

    The highlights of activities in the first 100 days include the inauguration of the President, where he reiterated in his inaugural speech his patriotic duty of fostering national unity, salvaging the economy and restoring security.

    The President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Tinubu, took the mantle from his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari, at the Eagle Square in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), on May 29.

    It was an impressive ceremony witnessed by statesmen, diplomats and other world figures. But the euphoria quickly gave way for serious work.

    Obviously, President Tinubu applied for a tedious job, which has taxed his competence and experience as a patriot, democrat and strategist.

    Read Also: I will not fail Nigerians – Tinubu

    Adorning his characteristic national outlook, the president assured the people of inclusiveness. “I will be president of all,” he said, adding: “Whether from the winding creeks of the Niger Delta, the vastness of the northern savannah, the boardrooms of Lagos, the bustling capital of Abuja, or the busy markets of Onitsha, you are all my people. As your president, I shall serve with prejudice toward none, but compassion and amity towards all.”

    Consistent with his campaign promises, Tinubu laid out some programmes he would pursue in the maiden address to the nation. He spoke on his plans for the economy; business and foreign exchange; agriculture, jobs, power supply, security and, the matter of the moment -fuel subsidy removal.

    The president, in the speech titled: ‘A new deal for Nigeria,’ described the peaceful transfer of power as an evidence of political stability, which he would build upon. He paid tribute to his predecessor, Buhari, saying that history will be kind to him.

    Conscious of the nature of Nigeria, particularly its cleavages, he promised to unify. The country is big and there are peculiarities dictated by its ethnic composition. Therefore, in utter sensitivity to these differences, Tinubu promised to consult widely, mend fences, pursue a healing process, and foster good governance based on the rule of law.

    Shortly after the change of baton, it was reported that intense bargain-hunting for Nigerian equity rallied the stock market to a net capital gain of N1.51 trillion, its highest in a day in two and half years. The Naira was also said to have recorded a marginal gain while the benchmark index for the stock market, the All Share Index (ASI), posted an average return of 5.23 per cent, its highest gain since November, last year. It has paled into artificial growth.

    During the campaigns, Tinubu, like his rivals-Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Peter Obi of the Labour Party(LP)-had alerted Nigerians that his administration will halt fuel subsidy. In fact, Buhari had set May as the terminal date for the regime of subsidy that had only benefitted few rich Nigerians. Reiterating his determination to do away with subsidy, Tinubu said “subsidy is gone.”

    Mixed reactions have trailed the announcement. It provoked a national debate. Some stakeholders were not comfortable with the manner of announcement. Others said there was nothing wrong with the emphasis, so that Nigerians could embrace the reality.

    The president received the applause of economic experts. But, the pronouncement was trailed by uproar among workers and the masses. The attempt to resist the removal began instantly. Unpatriotic petrol dealers deliberately hoarded fuel to inflict pain on innocent Nigerians. Loading of product temporarily stopped at depots. The price of fuel also went up. Many feared the impact on vulnerable members of the society.

    Today, petrol pump price is between N573,000 and N600,000. It has led to high cost of living

     But, justifying the removal, Tinubu said fuel subsidy has increasingly favoured the rich more than the poor, adding that it can no longer justify its ever-increasing costs in the wake of drying resources.”

    On the gains of subsidy removal, which all and not few will enjoy, the president said: “We shall instead re-channel the funds into better investment in public infrastructure, education, health care and jobs that will materially improve the lives of millions.”

    Unlike his predecessors, Tinubu broke with the tradition of instant announcements of appointments, particularly of immediate aides, including the Chief of Staff, Secretary to Government of the Federation (SGF), and media aides. The delayed appointments gave room for speculations. Some people invaded the unregulated social media with fake news, lying that certain persons had been appointed as aides.

    Also, analysts chided the president, saying that he could not really hit the ground running.

    But the effect was felt. As the controversy over fuel subsidy persisted, there was no official aide on ground until Tinubu’s Special Adviser during the campaigns, Mr. Dele Alake, who later became Special Adviser on Information,  Strategy and Special Duties, and much later, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, came on air to make certain clarifications. Later, Group Managing Director of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) explained to reporters in Abuja that the removal was non-negotiable, if Nigeria was to be pulled back from bankruptcy. He said the Federal Government owed NNPCL N2.8 trillion – being money spent on subsidy.

    On Friday June 3, President Tinubu made some appointments.  In a statement by the Director of Information, Aso Villa, Abiodun Oladunjoye, he appointed House of Representatives Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila as Chief of Staff, Senator Hassan Hadejia, former Deputy Governor of Jigawa State, as Deputy Chief of Staff, and George Akume, former Minister of Special Duties and governor of Benue State as Secretary to Government of the Federation.

    Later, the list of some aides were leaked to the media. However, the announcement of a chief media aide was delayed. Much later, Ajuri Ngelale was named Special Adviser to President on Information and Strategy.

    A day after his inauguration, Tinubu resumed office in Aso Villa. Vice President Shettima, who had resumed earlier on that day, led the Villa Staff and security men to welcome him.

    During the first week, the presided waded into the face-off between the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Department of State Services (DSS) over the disputed Ikoyi office. He instantly directed DSS operatives to vacate the disputed office immediately.

    On Thursday of his first week in office, the president met with the Progressive Governors’s Forum, led by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma. It was at the meeting that concensus was proposed for the election of National Assembly presiding and principal officers.

    On Friday, three prominent PDP stalwarts, Oyo State Governor Makinde, former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, and ex-Delta State Governor, James Ibori, visited the president. Details of their discussion were unknown.

    As the president settled down, the case arising from the February 25 poll began at the tribunal. It is noteworthy that the litigation has not been a distraction. The counsel to Tinubu is led by Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN). In the court of public opinion, the president has also condistently defended himself, insisting that he won in a poll that was substantially free and fair.

    But, President Tinubu has had to contend with threats of strike by Labour over the high cost of fuel due to subsidy removal. The patten of threats paled, in part, to war mongering and underscored the style of current union leadership, particularly its aloofness to regular dialogue and inclination towards showmanship. On June 5, reason prevailed and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) suspended its strike. This week, the nation has another warning strike to contend with on the same vexed issue.

    Tinubu, who is national leader of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has not abandoned party affairs. In the interest of proper synergy between the Executive and Legislature, the party brokered a deal for consensus candidacy for National Assembly presiding and principal officers. That led to the emergence of Chief Godswill Akpabio as Senate President and Tajudeen Abbas as House of Representatives Speaker. So far, relations between the two organs of government have been cordial. There is collaboration that is not targeted at tampering with the principle of separation of powers and its accompanying checks and balances.

    Also, following consultations with the APC governors, the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the party approved the nomination of Alhaji Abdullahi Ganduje and Senator Ajibola Basiru as national chairman and national secretary, following the resignation of Senator Abdullahi Adamu and Senator Iyiola Omisore.

    On June 8, President Tinubu met with governors and emphasised that they should work together to promote federalism and national unity. This is significant. He acted from the vantage point of experience, having been oppressed before by federal might when he was governor of Lagos State.

    On June 10, Central Bank Governor Godwin Emefiele was suspended by the president. He is currently facing charges for alleged money laundering and terror financing. His deputy, Folasodun Sonubi, was appointed as acting governor.

    In his first June 12 message to the nation, President Tinubu, a chieftain of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), urged Nigerians to rise in defense of democracy. He also promised judicial reforms.

    The presidential searchlight was beamed on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Its chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa was detained after his indefinite suspension. Many Nigerians have criticised his continued detention without trial.

    In June, the Federal Government put the proposed census on hold, saying that it is not feasible this year.

    Critical appointments made by the President included those of Mallam Nuhu Ribadu(National Security Adviser), Kayode Egbetokun (Police Inspector General), Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja (Chief of Army Staff), Real Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla (Chief of Naval Staff), and Air Vice Marshall Hassan Abubakar.

    For tertiary students, the president unfolded student loans aimed at aiding indigent students. It is not grant, but money that will be paid once they start working. But, academic unions look forward to the resolution of issues that have led to the disruption of the academic calendar.

    President Tinubu’s handling of foreign relations has been commended, although observers expressed reservation about his hasty proposal of military action for the resolution of the Niger mess.

    As Chairman of the Authority of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), he has become a curator for democracy. But it is gratifying that the Senate rejected the Federal Government’s plan for military action and called for a political solution. The dialogue process is still on.

    The President was at New Global Financing Pact Summit in Paris, France in June. When he returned to Nigeria, he headed to Lagos, his cradle, where he met leaders of the APC family. Hosted by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu,  his predecessors-Babatunde Fashola and Akinwunmi Ambode-were present.

    The following week, the Federal Government directed that the plan for electricity tariff hike should be postponed.

    The report of the 50-member European Union Observer Group on the 2023 poll was rejected. Many Nigerians believe that 50 observers were inadequate to really monitor the exercise across 36 states and Federal Capital Territory (CT).

    The economy has received greater attention. To ease hardship, regimes of tax were suspended in critical sectors, including telecommunications. Also, the Federal Government announced subsidy palliatives-12 million poor households are to get $800 million cash, and N8,000 per family for six months.

    More relief packages were released to cushion subsidy pain. These include N75 billion for 75 big enterprises, N225 billion for medium and small scale enterprises and 200,000 metric tonnes of grains to households across 36 states.

    Many have hailed the administration over the reforms aimed at ending the yearly loss of N20 trillion to tax evasion and weavers.

    The disclosure of N1.83 trillion as subsidy windfall in two months has also elicited commendation.

    If the loopholes are bridged and more money saved, government will have more resources for great capital projects.

    President Tinubu went to Kenya for the fifth African Union mid-year coordination meeting in Nairob, where he urged African leaders to uphold democracy and stand firm against coups.

    On July 19, N1.959 trillion allocation was shared to federal, states and local governments by the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC).

    On July 28, Tinubu announced the appointment of the first batch of ministers. Before the announcement, he had hired special advisers, few of who later made the ministerial list. The second list of ministers was released on August 3.

    The ministerial list met the criteria of gender balance and youth inclusion, geographical spread, religious and ethnic balancing. It was a blend of politicians and technocrats. The ministers parade intimidating credentials.

    That Gbajabiamila, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and Dave Umahi, who were members of the National Assembly, have moved to the executive organ means that the electoral commission will later conduct by-election to fill the vacancies.

    Before their swearing in, portfolios were assigned to the nominees after the screening hurdles. But, some critics complained that it took Tinubu almost three months to appoint ministers, despite his promise to hit the ground running.

    But, certain processes were not tidy. Strange names appeared on the ministerial list. It caused commotion in Kano, where former Governor Ganduje, said the woman picked from the state was not a popular choice. She was eventually dropped after she had passed through screening.

    Due diligence was also absent in the nomination of Mallam Nosiru El-Rufai and Mrs Stella Okotete, who were not confirmed by the Senate.

    Appointments could have been more tidier. The reversals conveyed an impression of non-acclamatisation.

    Criticisms trailed the reassignment of portfolios to ministers, barely a week. To some, the president may have approved the swap to avert some future problems. To others, the reversal meant that the president did not do his scrutiny of some of the nominees very well. There were allegations of undue manipulation and shoddy politics surrounding the inclusion of certain nominees on the list. It is debatable.

    The controversy over whether a youth corps member, Hannatu Musawa, can be Arts and Culture minister has fizzled out.

    But, last week, there was a row over the composition of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) board. Following protests, two names were dropped.

  • History as Metro line Train takes off in Lagos

    History as Metro line Train takes off in Lagos

    Forty years after it was cancelled by the military, Lagos, will today, begin a new journey with the commercial operation of the Blue Line Train flagged off by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu yesterday, writes ADEYINKA ADERIBIGBE.

    When the Lagos metro line rolled out at the Marina Train Station at 9:07 a.m. yesterday, it had, as Tour Manager, the state’s number one citizen–Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, who dressed to fit the part in a sky blue long-sleeve shirt, a Fez cap and Navy blue trouser.

    It was a duty he gleefully fulfilled. Who wouldn’t? Not after the project had escaped three of his predecessors and he is now delivering the project as a worthy gift to the visioner, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who marked his 100 days in office.

     He was received by the Managing Director of the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) Mrs Abimbola Akinajo, who sat on the project and saw it delivered after 17 years of waiting.

     Instructively, the project is coming to life 40 years after the first metro line idea was midwifed by the state’s first civilian Governor, the late Lateef Jakande was aborted and, undoubtedly, it has gone through several learning curves since 2006.

     The formal announcement of its construction was first made in December 2003, with initial cost of $135 million. The project was then known as part of the Greater Lagos Urban Transportation Project (GLUTP) to be implemented by LAMATA, the World Bank-backed special purpose vehicle (SPV) established to coordinate mass transit initiatives for the urban city-state of Lagos.

     In the same year, LAMATA came up with a 10-year State Transport Master Plan (STMP) which provided for six rail lines, one monorail, 14 bus rapid transit routes, 485 Independent Bus Routes, and over 20 water terminals with regular updates every 10 years to accommodate the changing population and urban dynamics in the state.

    In April 2008, LAMATA commenced the urban rail project with the Blue Line proposed to connect Okokomaiko to Marina when the government approved N70 billion for the project and set a 2011 deadline.

     To meet the deadline, the project was scaled down to phases I and II, with one being from Marina to Mile 2, a 13km length, while the second, which is 14km long, is to take off from Mile 2 to Okokomaiko.

    The deadline was, however, shifted to 2013, but that too was not to be as the government lamented the paucity of funds.

    The project was said to be about 70 per cent completed and two train sets to run the corridor had already been purchased.

    Read Also; Nigeria expresses worry over Gabon junta’s silence on handover date

    The Babatunde Fashola government again shifted the goal post from 2013 to 2015, which was not met. His successor, Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode, after a tour of the project a few months after taking over, had promised to inaugurate the project in 2016, and in Q4 of the year, he moved the completion date again to December 2019. He blamed the delays on the paucity of funds.

     His successor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, after inspecting the project on December 17, 2019, had promised he would deliver the project in 2020. He never did despite describing it as a top priority for his government.

     The immediate past Commissioner for Transportation, Dr Frederic Oladeinde, at the 2020 ministerial press briefing marking the first year of the government in office, had announced that the government had reset the completion date to 2022.

     Governor Sanwo-Olu was to re-echo this commitment in September 2021, and on January 3, 2022, he began what was to be a quarterly project tour signalling greater commitment to the project.

    On December 23, 2022, the governor celebrated the completion of civil works on the project; paving the way for the inauguration of the project by former President Muhammadu Buhari, the same man, who, as military Head of State, cancelled the project in 1983.

     At a press conference on the take-off of the project on August 30, Mrs Abimbola Akinajo acknowledged the several curves the project had passed through and assured that Lagos is ready this time to be the first sub-national government in Nigeria and West Africa to run an electric metro line for mass transit.

     She said the electric-propelled 13km blue line is expected to cater for about 175,000 passengers daily, and a “moderate fare of N750 has been set from Marina to Mile 2.

     However, the 50 per cent rebate ordered by the governor on all public transport systems would also be on the train throughout the period of the palliative.

    At the weekend, LAMATA came up with a fare range between stations, of between N200–500 depending on the distance. However, the train will only wait for 90 seconds at each station, and passengers would be expected to be on the platform at least a minute before the train’s arrival for interested passengers to board.

     She explained that for the next two weeks, operations would be during peak periods: morning and evenings, to get Lagosians to familiarise themselves with the metro train and to synchronise the electric component with the rolling stock.

     Full operations, she said, commences from 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. for the morning peak and from 4:00 to 10:00 p.m. during the evening peak.

     When the operation eventually goes into full swing, operations will begin at 5:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., while the evening peak will begin at 4:00 p.m. and run till 11:00 p.m.

     Mrs Akinajo said the service will continue to run in order to ensure the synchronisation of the electrified corridor. After two weeks, the service frequency, she added, will be increased and would be graduated, until it gets to the projected 76 trips per day.

    She said in line with LAMATA’s feasibility studies, the three trains would be able to achieve the projection before the year ends.

     “We are starting with 12 trips for two weeks, ramping up to 76 trips per day and one’ll be able to board the train using one’s Cowry Card,” Mrs Akinajo said.

     Sanwo-Olu in a tweet has urged Lagosians to take ownership of the project.

    “Lagos, this is your project. Take ownership and treat it with decency as you would treat anything that belongs to you. Any altercation or disturbance on the train will not be tolerated. It goes without saying that vandalism also will not be tolerated,” he said.

    The governor said he is committed to ensuring that the Blue train is adequately protected.

    The train is propelled by an electric conductor covered with a Yellow insulator called the Third Rail. This component enables the train to run on electricity and it carries 750 volts DC, which is about 250 per cent higher than the domestic volt. The result is extreme fatality for any trespassers. That’s why LAMATA has gone ahead and posted warning notices at all the stations and on the entire route to ensure that people are warned of the impending danger once the electrified line is activated.

     Akinajo said adequate protection has been put in place to ensure that people are prevented from coming in contact with the tracks, adding that on no account should anyone attempt to dash across the train tracks as such people risk instant electrocution.

     For security, she assured that over 300 CCTV cameras are installed on the entire corridor, with over 30 cameras, including body scanners that have been installed at the stations where command and control centres have also been created to monitor the tracks from end-to-end.

     This, the LAMATA chief said, is besides plain clothes policemen and men of the NSCDC that would be on the train to complement those on the ground at all the stations. The five stations are at Marina, National Theatre, Iganmu, Alaba and Mile 2.

     “The train would continue to work until full integration of the energy and the rolling stock is attained and until members of the public are adequately familiarised with the workings of the electric metro train system.

    She said the train would strictly keep to its timetable for arrivals and departures, adding that it would only stop at each station for about 90 seconds and anyone wishing to board the train would be expected to be at the platform by a minute before the train’s arrival.

     According to her, to promote sanitation, LAMATA will not condone anyone eating or drinking on the train, adding that passengers are expected to finish whatever they are eating or drinking before entering the train. Guards would be on the ground in the train to ensure strict compliance, and anyone engaging in any altercation would be handed over to the police.

     Akinajo said the train service has been fully integrated with the Cowry Card operational on the state-controlled transport system, adding that anyone who wished to board the train must have the card and top it with credit, as no paper tickets would be printed. She said the card would be slid on the face of the mounted gates to gain access to the paid section that leads to the platform.

     On the operations, Akinajo said though the train would be powered by electricity, it would initially run on diesel to ensure that members of the public are familiarised with it before it would be safer to sync it fully with the independent electrified system dedicated to power its operation.

     Because the tracks will, however, remain energised, Akinajo urged passengers to resist crossing the tracks to avoid electrocution.

  • Nigeria’s foreign relations: rise of sleeping giant

    Nigeria’s foreign relations: rise of sleeping giant

    As many challenges dominate President Bola Tinubu’s attention in the first 100 days of his administration, he is also mindful of the direction of the country’s foreign policy and its relations with the rest of the world. Assistant Editor BOLA OLAJUWON writes on the administration’s international posturing so far.

    Right from independence, Nigeria has an ambitious foreign policy. This is not, however, well defined and consistent with national interests. Hence, national interest becomes different strokes for different leaders at the helms of affairs. 

    But, under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, Nigeria’s  interests have been largely determined and defined by what the administration touted as national interests and refocus of the country’s African-centric foreign policy through actions and deeds to match commitments.

    Nexus between domestic and foreign policies

    Tinubu, after being sworn in as Nigeria’s 16th president, and right from the podium, while delivering his inaugural speech, sent a message to the nation and the world that it would not be business as usual. He emphasised that he was ready for business. 

    Knowing that domestic issues could not be divorced from foreign policy, he tackled frontally the thorny issue of petrol subsidy, declaring:  ”Fuel subsidy is gone”. He also took the decision to unify the foreign exchange rates, steered the economy towards growth. Some of his policies have been welcomed and have excited the local and international financial markets and investors, they have also being greeted with attendant challenges of inflation and increased poverty.

    However, the international community have seen a departure from what they had witnessed in the past, thus according the economy the required credibility and renewed faith of international financial operators, rating agencies and markets. At least, this is a departure from Father Christmas of the past administrations.

    Despite the hardships, he has reined in the two labour bodies – the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) – promising palliatives and salary increases for workers. 

    He suspended the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele; Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa; sacked the governing boards of federal government parastatals, agencies, institutions and government-owned companies. 

    He assented to the electricity bill, authorising states, companies and individuals to generate, transmit and distribute electricity. 

    Despite saving N2 trillion from subsidy payment removal, he has approved palliatives to states to ease the pains being suffered by Nigerians. 

    Tinubu’s tough stance on local issues is not in isolation of foreign policy. At least, he sent a message to the international community on his readiness to instill confidence in the fiscal policy and national economy.

    After standing on assertive pedestal, President Tinubu joined other world leaders at a State Banquet hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris, in June as part of the activities lined up for the New Global Financing Pact summit.

    After the event, the President on his Facebook page shared how much he relished the moments shared with other world leaders, including the chief host and his wife.

    “I had a great time with other Heads of State and important dignitaries at the State Banquet hosted by President Emmanuel Macron in Paris, France, this evening,” Tinubu said.

    Read Also: I will not fail Nigerians – Tinubu

    Tinubu said Nigeria would sustain its spotlight on African countries as the fulcrum of its economy and foreign affairs policies, ensuring that trade issues, security and border controls will be implemented.

    Receiving the President of Benin Republic, Patrice Talon, after the Summit on New Global Financing Pact, Tinubu noted that bilateral relations with African countries, particularly at the sub-regional level, would be enhanced for shared benefits in the areas of security, health, energy, education and diplomacy.

    “We are ready to improve relations. Africa has been the centrepiece of Nigeria’s foreign policy,” he said.

    “I believe in Africa. We have the necessity to grow the continent. The world’s economy is wobbling, and Africa has been left behind. On risk factors, Africa is always placed high, with higher interest rates on borrowing. We are always classified as high-risk. We must work together for systematic recovery and growth,” he added.

    Tinubu described Nigeria’s relations with Benin as that of Siamese twins, joined at the hips, and supported by other friendly countries. He also had bilateral meetings with Swiss President Alain Berset and the African Development Bank (AfDB) President, Akinwunmi Adesina.

    ECOWAS and the new bite

    Since 2020, coupists have removed elected governments in Burkina Faso, Chad, Guinea, Mali, and Sudan with little actions from the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). However, the coups in Niger Republic and the latest in Gabon have raised serious concerns about regional stability and democratic principles in West Africa and the continent. 

    The scenarios are against Tinubu’s statement in early July while accepting the ECOWAS chairmanship, when he said: “We must stand firm on democracy. Without democracy, there is no governance, there is no freedom, and there is no rule of law. We will not allow coup after coup in West Africa.”

    But, the President did not expect to be plunged into handling a crisis in neighbouring Niger. On July 26, Nigerien soldiers carried out a coup and removed President Mohamed Bazoum. 

    Tinubu immediately issued a strongly worded statement denouncing the coup before sending Beninese President Patrice Talon as the bloc’s mediator. But, the later was refused audience by the junta.  A former military head of state, Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar and Sultan of Sokoto Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar were later sent to Niamey as part of the mediation. After the junta installed army Gen. Abdourahamane Tchiani as head of state, Tinubu called an emergency summit of ECOWAS leaders to discuss a response.

    Why some Nigerians, especially people in the North, against ECOWAS’s resolve to intervene militarily in Niger, the members of the sub-region – except Burkina Faso and Mali -, the AU, the United Nations, European countries and the United States have backed Tinubu’s and ECOWAS’ actions. 

    Canadian Prime Minister Justin Pierre James Trudeau, Macron, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, UN Secretary-General António Guterres and others have also called to praise Tinubu on the Niger and Gabon issues. 

    With military intervention not yet in motion and coupled with Gabon coup, analysts are watching what will become of Nigeria’s new posturing over the coup issues.

    Nigeria and BRICS

    Also recently, the BRICS, a grouping of the world economies of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, met in South Africa. By next January, two African countries – Egypt, a leading economy and Ethiopia – an emerging economy and second most populous African country – will be joining the BRICS bloc.

    Many analysts have questioned Why Nigeria did not join the bloc when more than 40 countries had shown interest in it?

    The bloc is home to 42 per cent of the world’s population, almost 30 percent of the world’s territory, around 27 per cent of global GDP and around 20 percent of global trade.

    South Africa has reaped from the bloc and has given other African countries reasons to rethink their relationship with the West.

    South Africa’s overall trade with its BRICS partners increased by an average growth of 10 per cent from 2017-2021, total trade with BRICS reached R830 billion last year from R487 billion in 2017, with BRICS accounting for 21 per cent of South Africa’s global trade in 2022.

    Also, over 14 per cent of South Africa’s exports are to BRICS countries, with about 30 per cent of imports coming from BRICS countries in 2022.

    Experts are reasoning that Nigeria must not discountenance the opportunities in BRICS’ membership.

    Biden and Angolan invites

    President Tinubu recently hosted the United State’ presidential envoy and Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Molly Phee, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. Phee handed over President Joe Biden’s invite to Tinubu for a meeting during UN General Assembly.

    He, however, told his visitor to ensure that U.S. policy is intentionally collaborative to deepen democracy in Africa, at a time when they are under assault by anti-democratic forces within and outside of the continent.

    The President noted that American-backed development finance and multilateral institutions, which were designed to support war-torn Europe after World War II, require swift and comprehensive reform to meet the developmental requirements of younger democracies in Africa, which operate in authoritarian-crowded environments.

    He declared that such efforts will help to ensure that legitimate yearnings of Africans would no longer be manipulated to serve the narrow aims of self-seeking agitators through unconstitutional takeovers of power.

    “Yes, the private sector will lead the way within an enabling environment we create for them, but the U.S. Government must be innovative in its thinking and systematically create incentives for U.S. industrial investment in Nigeria,” he said. 

    Angolan President João Lourenço has also invited the President to the regular bilateral and multilateral consultations of African leaders aimed at tackling common challenges across the continent. Lourenço stated this in a message through his envoy, Téte António, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Angola, in Abuja.

    The message was made available to reporters by the Institutional Communication and Press Services of the Embassy of Angola in Nigeria, Benin and Niger.

     ”Lourenço is inviting his counterpart Tinubu, to participate in the third edition of the Pan-African Forum for the Culture of Peace and Non-Violence-Luanda Biennial, taking place from Nov. 22 to 24.

     ”Adopted in 2015 at the 24th Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU), the Biennial of Luanda will take place under the theme ‘Education, culture of peace and African citizenship, as tools for the sustainable development of the continent’.

    “It intends to contribute to the implementation of the “Action Plan for a Culture of Peace in Africa, a collaboration between the Government of Angola and UNESCO,” Lourenço said.

    Tuggar’s ‘Four Ds’ policy initiative

    Recently, the Foreign Affairs Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, stated that his ministry would be guided by a new ‘Four Ds’ Policy initiative, anchored on “Development, Democracy, Demography and Diaspora geared towards bringing modern solutions to address some complex challenges.

    Tuggar, while addressing staff of the ministry when he assumed duty, pledged to unveil a new foreign policy that would reposition Nigeria at the pinnacle of visionary and global decision-making.

    The minister spoke in Abuja, on his first day in office, after joining other ministers to take their oath of office at President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet’s inauguration.

    Tuggar said the “Four Ds” guiding his Foreign Policy for Nigeria would be “Development, Democracy, Demography, and Diaspora geared towards bringing modern solutions to address some complex challenges. He assured that the ministry will be redesigned to effectively play its roles at the forefront of promoting Nigeria’s interests and protecting citizens abroad.

    The minister assured Nigerians in the Diaspora that his administration will strive to address their challenges, adding, “It is the highest honour to be asked to serve as Minister of Foreign Affairs by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    “As a historically significant ministry, Foreign Affairs has long represented the highest standard of excellence. It is, therefore, our job to ensure those standards will never fail.

    “These are turbulent times. From the unfolding political crises in Niger Republic to the regional and economic insecurity, we have a lot of work to do. In due time, we will unveil a new vision for Nigeria’s foreign policy, Four D’s diplomacy.

    “Through this doctrine centred on development, democracy, demography and Diaspora, we hope to find modern solutions to address complex contemporary problems.”

    Tinubu’s recall of ambassadors

    Few days after unveiling the “Four Ds” guiding his Foreign Policy for Nigeria, Tuggar on Saturday said the President had directed the recall of all ambassadors.

    The minister, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Al-Kashim Abdul-Kadir, said the directive applied to career and non-career ambassadors, noting that the envoys were expected in the country at the end of next month.

    No fewer than 41 non-career and 42 career ambassadors are expected to return home. But, information on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs indicated that Nigeria has a total of 109 Missions, 76 Embassies, 22 High Commissions and 11 Consulates.

    Former President Muhammadu Buhari had in January 2021 approved the posting of 95 ambassadors, comprising 43 career and 52 non-career. Prior to the approval, the Senate ratified their nomination in 2020. 

    The minister, while thanking them for the service they rendered, said he looked forward to welcoming them to Abuja.

    But, the Presidency on Saturday night said the country’s United Nations Permanent Representatives in New York and Geneva were exempted from the recall.

    According to Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, the exemption was as a result of the upcoming UN General Assembly holding this month. 

    International affairs experts are wondering whether the recall of ambassadors and Tuggar’s “Four Ds” will have impact on the administration’s foreign policy initiatives. Nigerians in the Diaspora and at home have been clamouring for responsive diplomats abroad to give Nigerians a service delivery at par with other nationalities all over the world. A total of 109 missions, 76 embassies, 22 high commissions and 11 consulates without commensurate services are drain in the national purse. As assured by Tuggar, analysts are watching whether the ministry, high commissions, embassies and missions will be redesigned to effectively play their roles at the forefront of promoting Nigeria’s interests and protecting citizens abroad as the minister assured them that his administration will strive to address their challenges.

    The G-20 Summit in India

    The icing on the cake for the President as he marks his 100 days in office is the G-20 summit in India. Tinubu is expected to attend thr summit that will be held in New Delhi, between September 9 and 10. Ajuri Ngelale, special adviser to the president on media and publicity, announced the development on Friday while speaking to reporters. Ngelale said Tinubu seeks to attract foreign investments to the country during the summit. He added that the president is working to ensure that Nigeria can raise private capital from around the world for the development of its public infrastructure.

    At the summit, Tinubu will meet with world leaders and heads of state in addition to industry titans, and chief executive officers of some of the most valuable corporations in thhe world.

    He is also expected to host a roundtable meeting during the summit with more than 20 chief executive officers from various economic sectors.

    This, he said, is to ensure that Nigeria takes advantage of their interest in investing in the nation in a way that supports the industrialisation, digitalisation, and renewable energy agenda.

    Therefore, for Tinubu, the G-20 is an auspicious summit to mark his 100 days and bring home laudable investments and goodwill.

  • President and rule of law

    President and rule of law

    President Bola Tinubu, in his inauguration day speech, made a solemn promise to govern according to the constitution and the rule of law.

    The pledge – simple and straightforward – was critical because it indicated a determination to part ways with the much-criticised path of his predecessor and fellow All Progressives Congress (APC) member, Muhammadu Buhari.

    “In the coming days and weeks, my team will publicly detail key aspects of our programme. Today, permit me to outline in broad terms a few initiatives that define our concept of progressive good governance in furtherance of the Nigerian ideal:

    “The principles that will guide our administration are simple: Nigeria will be impartially governed according to the constitution and the rule of law,” President Tinubu said.

    Interestingly, Buhari made a similar declaration at his inauguration on May 29, 2015.

    Buhari said: “The Federal Executive under my watch will not seek to encroach on the duties and functions of the Legislative and Judicial arms of government. The law enforcing authorities will be charged to operate within the Constitution…”

    His words, slightly different but no less important than that of the incumbent, are now considered by many – in the light of his acts soon after he was sworn in – as having been made tongue-in-cheek.

    In just a few months in office, the Buhari administration cultivated a reputation for wilful disobedience to court orders, such as the ones granting bail to a former National Security Adviser (NSA) Sambo Dasuki, and the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu. His administration was also accused of, among others, the violation of rights with the massacre of Shiites in Zaria, Kaduna State. In 2022, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) accused Buhari of a wilful disregard for the rule of law and human rights, ignoring Nigerian judges on, at least 40 occasions. Facing pushback from critics, he attempted to justify his disobedience by referencing national interest and security.

    The Buhari administration’s culture of defiance of court orders and disregard for the rule of law reached a crescendo with the unpopular naira swap policy implemented by the now-suspended Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Godwin Emefiele.

    Four months after Tinubu took over the reins of power, many of the issues, including the Nnamdi Kanu situation, are still unresolved.

    Read Also: I will not fail Nigerians – Tinubu

    Curiously, and despite him publicly distancing himself from the Buhari regime’s apparent selective compliance with the rule of law, President Tinubu seems to have started off where the ex-military dictator stopped, at least in two prominent cases. The first is the travails of Emefiele. The other is the continued detention of the suspended Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Abdulrasheed Bawa.

    The common denominator in both cases is the self-styled Department of State Services (DSS).

    Emefiele has been in the custody of the DSS since June 10, a whopping 94 days, despite having been granted bail.

    On July 25, hooded, machine gun-toting DSS operatives went physical with NCoS officials and assaulted an unarmed NCoS Commander in public glare. The secret agency exercised its superior coercive power against pistol and rifle-bearing NCoS officials, who had just received the lawful right to take custody of Emefiele following the bail granted him by the court. Having won the muscle-flexing battle, the DSS whisked Emefiele away.

    Emefiele’s re-arrest occurred on the hallowed ground of the Federal High Court in Lagos sitting in Ikoyi after Justice Nicholas Oweibo admitted the embattled apex bank chief to bail in the sum of the N20m.

    The judge also ordered that Emefiele be remanded at the correctional centre pending the fulfilment of the bail conditions.

    The incident caused public outrage with many Nigerians calling for the head of the DSS’ Director-General. They urged President Tinubu to act.

    Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Jibrin Samuel Okutepa warned that the country was abandoning the rule of law.

    Okutepa said: “Nigeria is sliding into dictatorship. Rule of law no more in practice. While we operate the rule of law in theory we operate in practice despotism and totalitarian regime under the colour of democracy. The show of shame today between DSS and Correctional officers supports my position.

    “I have always said that those in power operate political vendetta and no rule of law. Why is DSS now all over the place? Is DSS above the law of the land? In a country where rule of law holds sway, the judiciary is respected and nobody is allowed to subvert judicial orders.”

    On August 17, even the judge handling the firearms case was forced to slam the government following its continued disregard of its order to allow Emefiele to enjoy his bail.

    Justice Nicholas Oweibo said the government had no respect for the rule of law.

    He spoke while giving his ruling on the ‘illegal possession of firearms and ammunition” charges against the banker.

    The Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) at the Federal Ministry of Justice, Abubakar Mohammed, had filed an oral application seeking the withdrawal of the two-count charge on the grounds of emerging facts and circumstances which require closer investigation.

    But chiding him, Justice Oweibo said: “The prosecution has shown that they are not law-abiding and have no respect for the court. The court cannot force them.

    “What good will it be for the defendant who is in custody? Of what benefit will it be to keep the file in the court’s docket?”

    “To stop the embarrassment of the court and to keep its integrity intact, I believe the proper thing is to allow them to withdraw the charge.”

    Like Emefiele, EFCC chair Bawa has also been in DSS custody since his suspension from office by the President and shortly after, was taken into custody by the DSS. He has now been in custody for 82 days without trial.

    Many senior lawyers have warned that the government is acting illegally and frustrating the rule of law.

    Dr. ‘Kemi Pinheiro, for instance, has urged the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) to effect Bawa’s immediate release 

    Pinheiro warned that by holding Bawa, the government risked sending the wrong signal to the international community concerning human rights violations in Nigeria.

    The senior lawyer’s August 21 letter to the AGF was titled “The continuous and unlawful detention of the erstwhile Executive Chairman of the Economic And Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Abdulrahseed Bawa”.

    In it, he noted that Bawa was suspended from office by President Bola Tinubu on June 14 and arrested by the DSS in whose custody he has been since.

    Pinheiro said: “Sometime ago, when the public’s curiosity arose on the cause of the purported ‘unlawful’ detention of the erstwhile EFCC Chairman, the officers of the DSS were said to have purportedly stated that the detention of the erstwhile EFCC Chairman was lawful and pursuant to a court order.

    “Even while we might believe that his detention may be based on a remand order issued by a court of competent record, it is of utmost importance to draw your attention to the unjustifiable extended duration of this remand order.

    “Granted that the said remand order may have been obtained pursuant to section 293 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015 which provides succinctly on the procedures to be followed in obtaining a remand order, Section 295 of the said Act also provides an opportunity for a suspect to apply for bail during the course of the said remand proceedings or in an entirely independent action.”

    The Silk noted that his present concern is that the continued detention may also be construed as violating Section 35(4) & (5) of the Constitution (as Amended.)

    The section guarantees the right of every person, where arrested or detained, to be charged before a competent court of law within a reasonable time.

    “It is considerably urged by this letter that the rule of law and the interest of justice should prevail and Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa is released immediately so as not to send the wrong signal to the international community as it relates to human rights violations in Nigeria,” Pinheiro added.

    Another SAN, Rotimi Jacobs also joined the call for the release of the suspended EFCC Chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa.

    According to Jacobs, the maximum period in which a suspect can be detained in Nigeria through a remand order is 56 days, but Bawa has been in detention for longer than that, contrary to the rule of law.

    He added: “The concern now is not necessarily about the person of Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa, but the need to respect and observe the rule of law in a constitutional democracy which we practise in Nigeria. 

    “In every constitutional democracy, any conduct which runs contrary to the rule of law must not only be avoided but must be deprecated by all lovers of democracy. 

    “As someone who believes in the truism that injustice to one is an injustice to all and as a lawyer, I see it as a point of duty to draw the attention of the relevant authorities to the obvious constitutional infraction and the illegality which the continued detention of Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa represents and I, therefore call on the relevant authorities to be properly guided and tow the part of justice in the instant case and other similar cases.”

    Last Monday, activist-lawyer Femi Falana also warned that the government was breaking the law by its continued detention of Emefiele and Bawa.

    He criticised the DSS for refusing to adhere to the rule of law.

    He noted that though both men had a penchant for disobeying court orders while they were in office, the DSS was also wrong for ignoring the rule of law by detaining them illegally.

    “Indeed, under the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, the cumulative lifespan of a remand order is 56 days. Therefore, having exceeded the detention period permitted by the Administration of Criminal Justice Act and the Constitution of Nigeria, the State Security Service should be directed to release Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa from illegal custody without any further delay.

    “The Federal Government should ensure that the rights of Messrs Emefiele and Bawa are respected by the State Security Service and the office of the Director of Public Prosecution in the Federal Ministry of Justice, even though the duo had a penchant for disobeying the orders of the courts when they were in office.

    “The plight of both suspects should be a lesson for all public officers in Nigeria who always behave as if there will be no tomorrow. However, the government which rules by law is under a legal obligation not to breach the fundamental rights of citizens except in a manner prescribed by the Constitution of Nigeria,” Falana said.

    Since his inauguration, President Tinubu has shown that he listens. A couple of times, he reversed his decisions, and political appointments following public outcry.

    Many Nigerians will now be expecting him to do same in the case of Emefiele and Bawa in the interest of the rule of law