The Nation Newspaper

Category: Special Report

  • UNICEF, Jigawa join forces to tackle malnutrition

    UNICEF, Jigawa join forces to tackle malnutrition

    Child malnutrition is wreaking havoc in Jigawa State, with the crisis worsening over the years. However, a glimmer of hope emerges from the collaborative efforts between UNICEF and the Jigawa State Government. This partnership has resulted in a substantial intervention: N500 million worth of Ready to Use Therapeutic Foods (RUTF) aimed at treating over 14,000 children suffering from severe wasting. Through this critical support, Jigawa State is taking decisive action to combat the malnutrition crisis and offer relief to its most vulnerable populations. Adekunle Yusuf and Ahmed Rufa’i report

    Child malnutrition is ravaging many homes in Jigawa State, a crisis that extends beyond this 31-year-old state. Saratu Musa, from Kofar Gabas in Sakwaya village, Dutse local government area, is a heart-breaking testament to this crisis. Pregnant while nursing an infant, she faced the devastating reality of seeing two of her children become severely malnourished.

    At 30 years old, Saratu grapples daily with the worsening condition of her children due to a lack of nutritious food and adequate medical care. “The situation is getting worse every day,” she said, her voice heavy with worry. The health facilities in their village are ill-equipped to handle the crisis, leaving families like hers desperate for help. A mother of six, Saratu describes the dire circumstances in her village: “We suffer from poor or non-existent sources of income, which keeps us trapped in extreme poverty. The lack of knowledge and inadequate guidance from health personnel, coupled with government neglect of rural health facilities, makes our situation even more unbearable.”

    Her husband, a farmer, struggles to support the family with his meagre earnings from petty trading, especially during the dry season when the lack of arable land leaves many men without the opportunity for irrigation farming. Saratu’s story is a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive interventions to address malnutrition in Jigawa State and other regions. Improved healthcare facilities, better nutritional education, and sustainable income opportunities are essential to break the cycle of poverty and malnutrition that plagues families like Saratu’s.

    “When President Bola Tinubu removed the fuel subsidy, the price of everything skyrocketed,” Saratu recalls. “Life became unaffordable, and feeding my family became a daily struggle. I was seven months pregnant with my fifth child, and it was difficult to eat three square meals a day. Sometimes, I only ate once, and even then, the food was not nutritious.”

    Despite her efforts to practise exclusive breastfeeding, Saratu’s inadequate diet affected her ability to produce enough breastmilk, leading to her baby’s malnutrition. “My daughter became malnourished because I couldn’t provide her with enough breastmilk,” she explained. Saratu’s challenges intensified when she became pregnant again just a few months after giving birth. “It was a double tragedy,” she said. “I had a sick, malnourished child and was pregnant again. There was not enough food, and the hardship continued. That’s how my baby died.”

    The removal of the fuel subsidy exacerbated the already dire situation. “When I was in labour, I experienced a prolonged delivery. At the hospital in Sakwaya, the midwife told me I didn’t have enough blood. None of my family members had enough blood to donate, so I was saved by blood from the blood bank.” After giving birth, Saratu returned home to face ongoing hardship. “The struggle continues, and it has worsened during the rainy season. My new baby girl, who is about three months old, is also malnourished. I’m afraid of becoming pregnant again under these conditions.”

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    Kande Nababa (not her real name) also shared her story: “This is my first child. I was married last year at the age of 17. I became pregnant in the month I was married. My husband used to travel to the southern states in search of money as he had no trade or business here, leaving me with his aged parents.” “My husband travelled to one of the southern states—I don’t know which—five to seven weeks after we got married, when I was just a few weeks pregnant. While he was away, I only had a guaranteed meal at night. Morning and afternoon meals were scarce. Since he left, I never saw him again until four days after I delivered this boy.”

    Kande added, “He came with baby clothes and other goods for the baby. He bought me two sets of wrappers and one pair of shoes to wear on the day of the naming ceremony. He also brought some money, though I don’t know the amount. He bought a very big ram, slaughtered it, and named the boy after his father. He stayed for three weeks before going back. The boy is malnourished, which I didn’t know. Nobody told me. He was frequently sick and hardly took breast milk. He also wasn’t drinking water well. After some time, I took him to the hospital. The medical personnel questioned me for giving him water and for not bringing him to the hospital earlier.”

    She continued, “They prescribed about five different medications and gave me only paracetamol syrup, asking me to buy the remaining ones outside as they didn’t have them in the clinic. When I got home, I told my mother-in-law, who also informed my father-in-law. He called my husband and told him to send money for the drugs. It took us weeks to receive the money.”

    Malnutrition is on the rise among children in the state, affecting not only rural areas but also urban areas due to two major factors. The first reason believed to be causing the increase in malnutrition is the current hardship and high cost of food items resulting from the removal of the fuel subsidy, which has plunged the common people into hunger and abject poverty. The second reason is attributed to the previous state administration, which neglected nutrition programmes and stopped procuring Ready to Use Therapeutic Foods (RUTF). This neglect led to over seventy Community-based Management of Acute Malnutrition (CMAM) centres across the state running out of stock.

    Kudos to the governor, Malam Umar Namadi. Even before his emergence as governor in 2023, he prioritised nutrition and included it in his 12-point agenda presented to the people during his campaign. Immediately after winning the February 2023 gubernatorial election and being sworn into office on May 29, 2023, the governor approved and released N250 million as counterpart funds to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) for the procurement of RUTF. UNICEF also contributed N250 million, making a total of N500 million.

    UNICEF has completed its assignment of procuring the commodities, shipped them to Nigeria and transported them to Jigawa, where they were delivered to the governor on July 9th in a historic and colourful ceremony at the Dutse Government House. Speaking while receiving the delivery at the Dutse Government House, Governor Namadi said the supply of Ready to Use Therapeutic Foods (RUTF) is timely, as the state was almost out of stock in the over seventy CMAM centres spread across the state. He stated that the RUTF, worth over N500 million from UNICEF, will treat over 14,000 children suffering from severe wasting in the state. “UNICEF is the oldest and most consistent development partner collaborating with and supporting the efforts of successive governments in Jigawa State in the delivery of basic social services, especially those that promote the survival, protection, and development of women and children,” he said.

    The governor added that for over three decades, UNICEF has continued to provide support in areas such as health and nutrition, basic education, water, sanitation and hygiene, social policy development, and social protection interventions, among others. He noted that the intervention aligns with the state government’s commitment to address concerns raised in the report on the situation analysis of children in the state. “These concerns include ensuring nutrition security for our children, given the unfavourable statistics on such nutrition indices as wasting and stunting among children in the state,” he said.

    The governor further stated, “We are more committed than ever to changing the narrative by sustaining and enhancing all ongoing nutrition programs, including our collaboration with UNICEF, to ensure that no child in the state experiences hunger or malnutrition. We firmly believe that the greatest tragedy for a child is to suffer from malnutrition during their formative years, as the consequences are irreversible. A child with hampered cognitive capacity is prevented from reaching their full potential in life,” Namadi emphasised. He pledged greater commitment to sustaining and improving the home-grown Masaki Nutrition Programme, which aims to leverage locally available recipes to significantly and positively impact child nutrition.

    UNICEF Country Director Ms. Cristian Munduate praised Jigawa State’s remarkable leadership in nutrition, health, water, sanitation, and hygiene over the past three years. She highlighted the state’s consistent fund releases, quality service delivery, and the creation of a strong enabling environment. Ms. Munduate informed the governor about the Child Nutrition Fund (CNF), supported by key partners such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation, and the UK’s Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office, and managed by UNICEF. She described the CNF as a unique funding instrument.

    “Jigawa State was one of the early adopters of the Child Nutrition Fund, releasing 250 million Naira in 2023. UNICEF matched this amount, enabling the procurement of much-needed RUTF. This initiative will treat around 14,000 children with severe wasting, marking the largest contribution by any state in Nigeria under the CNF to date,” she stated. Ms. Munduate addressed the broader issue of malnutrition in Nigeria, noting, “Malnutrition in Nigeria is on the rise, driven by conflict, forced displacement, and increasing food insecurity due to limited accessibility and affordability. Nigeria currently has the highest number of malnourished children in Africa and the second highest globally, with over 9 million children wasted.”

    The UNICEF country representative disclosed the specific challenges faced by Jigawa State, “Jigawa State faces a high burden of malnutrition, with 64% of children stunted, nearly 10% wasted, and around 82% suffering from anaemia. Over 80% of children experience food poverty, lacking a diverse diet to support growth and development. These figures are staggering.” Despite these challenges, Ms. Munduate commended Jigawa State’s proactive approach to nutrition, health and WASH programming. “Last year, the state procured nearly 4,700 cartons of RUTF, treating over 5,000 children. Jigawa’s innovative Masaki Nutrition Programme, with 300 community sites fully funded by the government, focuses on malnutrition prevention. Trained community health workers are deployed across the state, making Jigawa the first state in Nigeria to implement such a community nutrition programme.”

  • Quest for food security, economic stability in Southwest

    Quest for food security, economic stability in Southwest

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Industrialised agriculture brings change

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Rebranding police as a people’s force

    Rebranding police as a people’s force

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

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

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

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

    A deviation from the past

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

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

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

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

    Foundational pillars that forms strategic framework

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Honouring a legacy of journalism excellence

    Honouring a legacy of journalism excellence

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

     He described the accolades from associates and colleagues as priceless.

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

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

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

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

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

    • By Bayo Onanuga

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Why governors should align with President Tinubu on council autonomy

    By Tunde Rahman

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Sanwo-Olu decries unhygienic practices

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Exposing the illicit operations of private jets

    Exposing the illicit operations of private jets

    Last week’s suspension of the Permit for Non-commercial Flights (PNCF) of 10 private jet operators by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) over flagrant disregard for regulatory compliance has exposed the abuse in the air transport sector. Amid accusations of engagement in illegal, illicit and other unauthorised activities, private jet operations are becoming a threat to national security, requiring drastic steps to checkmate the infraction, writes KELVIN OSA- OKUNBOR

    The activities of private jet operations as the luxury arm of Nigeria’s air transport value chain is increasingly coming under focus as the Federal Government moves to cleanse the sector from recurring infractions.

    To nib such infractions, the government is rolling out a raft of measures to whip operators in the eco-space in line with stringent regulations as contained in the prescribed standards, procedures and recommended practices of both local and international regulators.

    Part of the new regulations rolled out by the Federal Government is a re- certification exercise recently conducted by the apex civil aviation regulator – Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

    In the past few years, investigations reveal that the number of aircraft registered in the country by the NCAA has been on the rise.

    According to regulatory data, the number of aircraft registered in the country increased from 175 to 358 between 2015 and 2023.

    However, it is unclear what the current number as the  NCAA and Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), have been closing ranks to arrive at a database  of private jets operating in the country.

    Experts say a cloud of uncertainty surrounds the ownership/identity of most of the private jets flying in the Nigerian airspace.

    While some of the jets were bought for private use, recent reports indicate that some of the jets have veered off their scope of operations allegedly engaging in hire serves for reward.Such practice runs contrary to the regulations of the NCAA.

    Jets involved in charter services by the NCAA regulation ought to remit five per cent of the revenue it earns as ticket sales charge to the authority.

    Although a few high net worth individuals and organisations allegedly own these jets, documents at the regulatory authority poves otherwise.

    A source hinted that these individuals acquire these equipment and hand it over to companies to manage it on their behalf.

    Sources also hinted that some players in the sector have been pushing for fractional ownership, a trend that is gaining traction among the financial institutions.

    Although a directorate of General Aviation has been created at the NCAA to cater to the burgeoning value chain of private jets dotting airports and other aerodrome facilities at the country, their operations have remained largely opaque.

     Over the years, the NCAA has called on the owners and managers of these jets to comply with regulatory provisions, in terms of the scope of their operations, the operators have instead chosen to operate in silos.

    The Acting Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo, six months ago, said all private jets operating as charter operators will have their licences revoked.

     He expressed concern over the illicit activities of illegal private jet operators in the country, and said if private jets want to operate as commercial or charter operators, they should apply for the commercial licences.

    But, matters got to a head at the weekend, as the regulatory authority’s sledge hammer fell on the non-complying operators.

    Pointedly, the NCAA suspended the Permit for Non-commercial Flights (PNCF) of 10 private jet operators for their flagrant disregard of the rule requiring them to undergo re-evaluation.

    The NCAA said the exercise has since April 19, 2024 been concluded.

     NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr Michael Achimugu listed the erring operators to include: Azikel Dredging Nigeria Limited, Bli-Aviation Safety Services, Ferry Aviation Developments Limited, Matrix Energy Limited, Marietta Management Services Limited, Worldwide Skypaths Services, Mattini Airline Services Limited, Aero Lead Limited, Sky Bird Air Limited and Ezuma Jets Limited.

    The NCAA warned that it is illegal to engage PNCF holders for commercial purposes.

    This is even as the regulator said it will not hesitate to initiate enforcement actions against any PNCF holder found guilty.

    To drive this, Achimugu said NCAA officials have been deployed to General Aviation Terminals (GAT) and private wings of the airports to monitor activities of the PNCF holders.

    The statement reads: “The Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations 2023 Part 18.3.4 forbids holders of PNCF from using their aircraft for carriage of passengers, cargo or mail for hire or reward, which is described in aviation parlance as commercial operation on charter.”

    Prior to the decisive move, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo had accused some private jet owners of using their aircraft for money laundering and drug trafficking.

    Keyamo said this during the inauguration of a ministerial task force committee on illegal private chartered operations and related matters in Abuja.

    The minister said he had set a five-point agenda that would guide him and his team in discharging the mandate of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu when he assumed office.

    He said the five-point agenda encapsulates safety, infrastructure, support for local operators, human capacity development and revenue generation.

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    Accordingly, he said the ministry has identified issues within the aviation industry “that we must tackle headlong.”

    “It has come to my attention, through a series of disturbing reports that the practice of illegal charter operations is thriving within the aviation industry, thereby undermining the efforts of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and other regulatory bodies.

    “These illicit activities have not only resulted in significant financial losses to the Federal Government but have also raised security and safety concerns as the operations of private aircraft owners have remained largely unchecked and unregulated,” he said.

    This, Keyamo said, has also resulted in using private aircraft for other illegal activities.

    “Last week, the National Security Adviser wrote to us, alerting us of the spike in money laundering, drug trafficking and other illegal activities through the use of private aircraft in the country.

    “It appears that Private Non-commercial Flight (PNCF) operators have become increasingly emboldened, continuing their illegal operations with the assistance of Air Operator Certificate (AOC) holders who collect tolls and list these illegal charters under their AOCs.

    “We have received alarming reports that some crew members have not attended mandatory simulator training for nearly three years and are flying with fraudulently-obtained renewed licenses.

    “Many of these individuals are operating planes registered under PNCF but are conducting illegal charter operations with impunity,” he said.

    To combat the illegal operators, the minister announced the immediate composition of a ministerial task force on illegal private charter operations and related matters.

    He said some of the responsibilities of the task force include taking “inventory of all permits for non-commercial flights (PNCF) holders and air operator certificate (AOC) holders, to determine why the practice of illegal charters by PNCF holders persists in the country despite regulatory controls.”

    The task force, according to the minister, was also created to “call in all professional licenses of pilots and crew in the country and determine their authenticity and validity, and to recommend to the minister any additional measures to be taken by regulatory agencies to stem this ugly tide.”

    He said the committee is expected to recommend appropriate penalties to be imposed by the regulatory agencies on defaulters and additional measures to monitor private aircraft operations in Nigeria.

    The minister added that the members of the task force have been carefully selected from within the aviation industry and are people of high repute and integrity.

    He named Ado Sanusi as chairman of the committee, Roland Iyayi as Vice-Chairman, and acting director of air transport, aviation ministry as secretary.

    Other members of the committee, he said, include Theresa Babayo, director of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA); Olayinka Oyesola, commander of the presidential air fleet; Daniel Quansah; Patrick Ogunlowo; and Obafemi Bajomo, Keyamo’s special assistant (SA).

    Only recently, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) said 30 out of 65 verified private jet owners are liable to pay required agency duties to the Federal Government.

    Joseph Attah, NCS Public Relations Officer (PRO), made the disclosure in Abuja.

    Customs had commenced verification for private aircraft owners in June due to rising insecurity in Nigeria.

    Attah said some of these private jets came into the country by the temporary importation agreement.

    He said the agreement allows them to bring the planes without duty payment because it was secured by a bond.

    According to him, many of them failed to turn up to pay on the expiration of the agreement which necessitated the verification exercise.

    He said the exercise would allow more revenue to accrue to the federal government because those who failed to adhere to the agreement would be made to pay the duties.

    The Customs PRO also said the verification exercise has been extended again by another 14 days, which began on July 26 and ends on August 6, 2024.

    “Considering the rising number of compliance and the number of jets that are liable for payment of duties as well as indications by those people to do so, the comptroller-general has again graciously given them another two weeks.

    “The exercise, as I stated in our previous briefings, is not intended to be punitive or to embarrass them but to ensure that these private jets that operate in the country are properly documented.

    “It is also to ensure that all revenue is collected into the coffers of the Federal Government,” he said.

    Attah said the exercise has created an opportunity for the NCS to differentiate those planes on commercial operations from those owned and used for private purposes.

    He reiterated that whoever fails to turn up for the exercise will have his/her aircraft impounded, adding that the verification extension (deadline) will be the last.

    Also recently, the Federal Government grounded a United States-registered Gulfstream G650ER jet owned by a leading Nigerian bank due to unpaid import duties amounting to an estimated N1.9 billion.

    The action marks the beginning of the government crackdown on private jet owners who have not paid the required import duties, which collectively run into several billions of naira.

    This development follows the NCS’s initiation of a one-month verification exercise for private jet owners in Nigeria, which commenced on June 19, 2024, and will conclude on July 19, 2024.

    The exercise aims at identifying and addressing cases of aircraft illegally imported into the country without the payment of import duties.

    During a similar exercise in 2019, the NCS recovered approximately N2 billion for the government.

    This year, at least 80 private jet owners are required to present their import documents and aircraft certificates of registration to Customs officials in Abuja.

    Although the grounding of non-compliant private jets is scheduled to start after the verification period, some operators’ attempts to export their aircraft to evade the exercise have prompted the NCS to begin immediate clampdowns.

    Reports indicate that several operators of foreign-registered private jets have been temporarily flying their aircraft out of Nigeria to avoid scrutiny.

    In the light of these developments, the NCS has taken pre-emptive measures by writing to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, requesting the cancellation of flight clearance approvals for the non-compliant private aircraft, including the luxury Gulfstream G650ER grounded at Lagos airport.

    Experts in the Nigerian aviation industry have accused private jet operators of converting their private jet to chartered services, thereby violating Section 18.2.4.3 of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig.CARs) 2015.

    This follows the indictment of Flints Aero Services Ltd, a private jet company by the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) in its report on the crash some months ago.

    A preliminary report released by NSIB had indicted Flints Aero Services Limited, the airline that flew Mr. Adebayo Adelabu, one of the ministers in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet from Abuja to Ibadan Airport of violating the Air Operator Certificate (AOC) issued to it by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

    According to him, the NCAA needed to up its surveillance on the private jet operators, insisting that some of them engage in hire and reward against the license issued to them.

    Mshelia stated that chartered operators pay NCAA five percent  of their Ticket Sales Charge (TSC) and other taxes required of them, but private operators evade this payment.

    He insisted that it was an illegal conduct, which must be checked by the NCAA.

    He said: “People with AOCs will get your bill at the end of the day and you pay it over time and this goes to government coffers. However, these are totally off the radar of taxes and when last I checked tax evasion is still a crime.

    “Why will someone be operating and collecting money and not remitting the required five per cent?”

    Mr. Chris Amokwu, an aviation analyst, also claimed that some of the private jet operators fly as much as three to four times to different destinations within the country doing charter, despite claiming to be a private jet operator.

    Like Mshelia, Amokwu said this is against the civil aviation rule on hire and reward and wanted the NCAA to beam its searchlight on the activities of some of the private jet operators.

    “They get a PNCF and someone flies this aircraft to Lagos three to four times a day. I’ve made this presentation to the CAA before.

    “If you are doing your surveillance properly, how does someone who has a private operator license go to Lagos three, four times daily? He takes off in the morning and flies all over Nigeria daily, you should suspect him,” he said.

    He challenged the NCAA to begin to ground the operations of any private jet that engages in such an act, maintaining that this could be easily detected by the apex regulatory body in the industry.

    Flints Aero Services Limited was issued the non-commercial certificate, which indicated that it cannot airlift passengers for commercial purposes.

    But the airline went ahead to operate a chartered operation, which meant that it charged the minister and his team some amount of money to airlift them from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA), Abuja to Ibadan Airport.

    Adelabu and nine others, including two cockpit crew and one cabin crew, had, on November 3, 2023, about 10:00 p.m., involved in an air incident at Ibadan Airport where it had crash-landed into the bush.

  • Scaling up AMR mitigation campaign to save livestock sector

    Scaling up AMR mitigation campaign to save livestock sector

    Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is a persistent global health concern that adversely impacts multiple sectors, including agriculture. The crisis is significant, as the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) estimates a potential annual loss of $3.4 trillion from the global gross domestic product (GDP). The financial impact is alarming and has the potential to push millions into extreme poverty. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has also emphasised the various consequences of AMR such as decreased food production, concerns regarding food safety, economic losses for farmers and environmental contamination, DANIEL ESSIET reports.

    Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is a major issue in global health which affects various sectors such as agriculture, healthcare and the environment.  Farmers employ antibiotics to manage, prevent and combat animal diseases, thereby enhancing the efficiency of their livestock and operations.

    Nevertheless, there is apprehension about the potential impact of regular antibiotic use in livestock on the emergence of antimicrobial-resistant pathogens, which could adversely affect human and animal well-being.

    Numerous studies have shed light on the prevailing trends and behaviours of livestock farmers in terms of the use of antibiotics.The studies have revealed that many farmers do not seek professional guidance from veterinarians for disease management and antibiotic use. Instead, they tend to disregard instructions on correct dosage, hoard leftover antibiotics and even share them with others who seek advice from non-veterinarian sources. Unfortunately, such practices significantly elevate the risk of AMR.

    Currently, a considerable number of farmers view self-medication as a more cost-effective alternative to consulting a veterinarian, indicating a financial obstacle to obtaining proper veterinary care.

    In Africa, where population density is often high and agricultural practices intensive, the challenges posed by AMR are particularly profound. The use of antimicrobials in livestock farming, aquaculture, and crop production contributes to the emergence and dissemination of resistant microbes.

    For instance, the excessive and inappropriate use of antibiotics in animal husbandry can lead to the development of resistant bacteria that can be transmitted to humans through the food chain or environmental contamination.

    The Coordinator of the Economics Trade and Marketing Unit/Food Safety Officer of African Union Inter-Africa Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR), John Oppong-Otoo highlighted the challenges posed by the increasing antimicrobial resistance.

    “The rise of antimicrobial resistance complicates the treatment of infections in human and veterinary medicine; leading to much time spent in hospitals, increased mortality rates and higher healthcare costs.

    In countries that have limited resources and healthcare infrastructure, the burden of AMR can be challenging to manage.

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    “Furthermore, the environmental dimension of AMR cannot be overlooked. The discharge of antimicrobial residues from agricultural runoff, pharmaceutical manufacturing and improper disposal of unused medications can contribute to the spread of resistance genes in soil, water, and air, impacting ecosystems and potentially exacerbating the problem,” he said.

    The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and other African Union (AU) Agencies have recognised AMR as an urgent issue on the Continent. It is estimated that over two billion people in Africa, especially those in the agricultural industry, could be driven into extreme poverty as a result of the AMR threat. They emphasised that the spread of resistant bacteria does not respect borders and can present substantial risks to public health, food security and economic stability across the Continent.

    Nevertheless, they argued that the existing national frameworks are insufficient in combating the threat of AMR. Both organisations are warning that a failure to adequately control the threat could lead to catastrophic consequences for individuals and the economy.

    With data from various regions of Africa showing that marginalised communities are experiencing the adverse effects of pollution on agricultural lands, the AU has cautioned that lack of prompt interventions could result in severe repercussions for livestock production and food security.

    The issue of rising impact of AMR is, undoubtedly, increasing worldwide, including Nigeria; encountering difficulties that are worsened by various socio-economic factors.

    According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, Nigeria and other low and middle-income countries are projected to suffer the most negative impact from AMR, potentially resulting in a loss of up to $100 trillion of global gross domestic product by 2050.

    In the North, small-scale farmers are facing the detrimental effects of AMR, including animal-borne diseases which severely hurt the economy, the ecosystem and livelihoods in farming communities.

    Overall, AMR is a threat to healthy and sustainable food systems, future economic growth and global public health, according to the Africa CDC and  AU-IBAR teams of the African Union (AU).  Both organisations   have called for bold action to prevent serious consequences associated with the spread of AMR.

    Ahead of the global leaders’ discussions at the High-level meeting on AMR of the United Nations General Assembly in September this year, it is critical to highlight the AMR progress. In 2020, African Heads of State and Governments demonstrated the highest political commitment toward addressing this issue by the Assembly/AU/Decl.3 (XXXIII) Declaration on African Common Position on Antimicrobial Resistance and further highlighting the political commitment of African countries to align their efforts and priorities in combating the effects of AMR.

    Since then, AMR has received increased attention at the national and regional levels in Africa. Member states were encouraged to allocate financial resources for interventions and provide training for personnel towards effectively preventing and managing AMR as reflected in revised-cost NAPs.

    Over the past several months, the Africa CDC and AU-IBAR have been actively developing a landmark report of African priorities and outcomes for AMR, ahead of a High-level meeting on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) to be convened by the UN General Assembly (UNGA) in New York in September.

    The meeting is crucial because it presents an important opportunity for world leaders to collectively address the looming threat that AMR poses to global health, food security and achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

    Already, the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations has unveiled a 10-year strategy to reduce the need for antimicrobials on farms.  This is in a bid to address the challenges posed by AMR in the agricultural sector.

    AU is currently engaged in consultation meetings with experts from various sectors to develop a robust response strategy following the One Health approach. The experts prioritised areas to address AMR based on feasibility and impact potential.

    The highest priority identified is mobilising funding and technical assistance for NAPs, followed by governance, coordination and clear ownership of AMR initiatives.

    Promoting the One Health approach by integrating AMR into broader agendas is ranked third, while creating equitable financing opportunities is the final priority. A recent expert dialogue workshop held in May this year discussed these findings.

    The forum was led by One Health Unit Lead, Africa CDC, Dr Yewande Alimi; Chairman of Nigeria Antimicrobial Resistance Coordination Committee and Infection Prevention and Control Programme Coordinator at Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, Dr Tochi Okwor and Executive Director, ReAct Africa, Dr Mirfin Mpundu.

    AMR experts across several countries discussed three crucial themes aimed at addressing the persistent issue of AMR in Africa. These include tackling AMR drivers, enhancing evidence and reporting methods and mobilising resources effectively.

    The meeting was aimed at achieving key objectives such as sharing planned outcomes for the AMR High-level meeting at UNGA, identifying major challenges, brainstorming actionable solutions and advancing the AMR agenda for Africa. Emphasis was placed on governance, coordination and promotion of the One Health approach to effectively combat AMR. The participants at the workshop stressed the importance of equitable financing opportunities to realise the vision of AMR-free Africa.

    The key messages from the workshop are being incorporated in drafting the African Union’s landmark AMR report, which will elevate the African voice at the UNGA’s AMR High-level meeting. Continued consultative engagements will be conducted in the coming months, ahead of the launch of the report this month.

    Dr Yewande Alimi highlighted the fact that Africa carries the highest burden of AMR, which necessitates the need to get countries to establish and implement National Action Plans.

    She also emphasised the importance of advocating for a One Health approach that integrates human, animal and environmental health sectors, as well as the need for robust surveillance and reporting systems.

    Additionally, she addressed the importance of ensuring equitable access to essential antibiotics, vaccines and diagnostics while preventing their overuse and misuse, particularly among vulnerable populations.

  • Understanding Tela maize benefits, future prospects

    Understanding Tela maize benefits, future prospects

    The Federal Government’s recent launch of TELA maize varieties has sparked mixed reactions. In this special report, NICHOLAS KALU and JULIANA AGBO provide an in-depth analysis on the introduction and implications of genetically modified TELA maize in Nigeria, covering controversies, benefits, regulatory frameworks, and addressing concerns over food security, health impacts and socio-economic implications

    The announcement that the Federal Government had launched the transgenic TELA maize varieties in the country raised concerns in some quarters. The TELA maize variety belongs to a category known as Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs). These crops have been genetically modified to be more resistant to pests and to yield more produce. The concerns raised by some GMO opponents prompted the House of Representatives to call for a halt to GMO crops in Nigeria pending an investigation by its committee.

    In an attempt to address these concerns, the Federal Government stated that the launch of the TELA maize variety aims to close the national maize production deficit, estimated at six million tons annually. This effort is part of a broader agenda to ensure food security. To allay fears, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Ali Pate, emphasised that the ministry is committed to the formulation, implementation, and support of health-related policies and programmes. Regarding genetically modified crops, the ministry is guided by the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA), which operates under the Federal Ministry of Environment. The NBMA is responsible for ensuring that modern biotechnology and its products do not harm human health or the environment.

    The TELA maize initiative is led by the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and other partners, and developed by the Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR) at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State. This genetically modified maize is designed to be tolerant to drought and resistant to fall armyworm, a pest that farmers report can destroy nearly 100 per cent of maize in the field.

    The Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, stated at the launch that the TELA maize variety will address the national deficiency in maize production, which is estimated at six million tons annually. Abdullahi added that this deficit will be closed within the next three years if 1.5 million hectares of Nigeria’s six million hectares of farmland are used to plant the TELA variety. He explained that this would result in an average additional increase of 10.5 million metric tons, bringing national production to over 20 million metric tons.

    This increase, he said, will not only make Nigeria self-sufficient in maize production but also enable the country to export around two million metric tons annually. According to Abdullahi, the positive impact of TELA maize will be felt across various sectors of the economy. He added that increased maize production will stimulate growth in related industries, create jobs, and drive rural development.

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    However, the Minister’s assurances have done little to quell the concerns of many people, which contributed to the resolution of the House of Representatives. The primary fear is that the TELA maize variety, being laboratory-made rather than naturally occurring, is part of a Western agenda led by Bill Gates. Critics argue that this agenda goes beyond economic exploitation and control, aiming at a more sinister goal: population reduction. These skeptics claim that the genetically modified varieties are not just insect-resistant but are injected with toxins intended to cause sterility and diseases, leading to death and reducing the population. They believe that the nutrients humans need have been removed from the crops and replaced with harmful substances.

    According to these theories, past attempts to reduce the population through Ebola, HIV and COVID-19 failed because Africans relied on organic food. Now, the fear is that GMOs are the latest attempt to undermine the immune systems of Africans by replacing organic food with genetically modified alternatives. Some even believe this is part of a broader plot to replace humans with artificial intelligence. Additionally, there is concern that GMO seeds, including TELA maize, cannot be replanted, forcing farmers to buy new seeds every season, which can be modified at will.

    Proponents of the TELA maize feel the government is not doing enough to enlighten the public and bridge the gaps that breed mistrust. Responding to queries on GMOs and TELA maize, Dr. Sylvester Oikeh, the TELA Maize Project Manager at the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), stated that there was no cause for alarm, dismissing the concerns as baseless. Addressing the safety of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), Dr. Oikeh emphasised the importance of establishing their safety. He noted that GM foods that have passed regulatory scrutiny and been approved are considered safe to eat. This assessment is supported by various organisations, including the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), Nigeria’s National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA), and numerous Academies of Sciences around the world.

    He said, “For one reason or another, some countries chose to import GMO foods and not grow them. Examples are most countries in Europe while most countries chose to produce for local consumption and export surplus for income. Examples are USA, Argentina, Brazil, South Africa, to mention a few. Nigeria has joined such countries.”

    Addressing concerns that China, which initiated GMO crops, and many other countries have banned them, Dr. Oikeh pointed out that China imports a significant quantity of GM soybeans and corn (maize) for both human and livestock feed. “In 2024, China approved 27 GM corn seed varieties and three GM soybean varieties for cultivation to bolster domestic production and reduce its reliance on imports. Other GM crops approved in China to be grown for commercial purposes, include corn, cotton, and papaya. The Federal Government of Nigeria also recognises the potential for some GM crops to be produced locally to bridge the productivity gap and reduce reliance on imports to save the huge foreign exchange on food imports for the country,” he said.

    Addressing concerns that GMO crops will lead to loss of original and natural seeds planted over the years by farmers, he said, “There is no evidence that the introduction of GM crops will displace existing seed systems. Farmers have always decided what they want to plant. GM crop varieties are just one additional tool in the farmer’s toolbox to address the twin pressing needs of pest pressure and climate variability. Farmers are free to save their grains and use them for subsequent planting as ‘seeds.’ Regarding concerns that GMO crops will lead to increased and severe hunger because the seeds cannot be replanted, Dr. Oikeh clarified that farmers can choose to replant saved GMO grains as seeds, but the yield will drastically reduce. He said, “So, it is possible to save and replant grains as ‘seeds’ but the crop won’t be uniform on the field, and it loses a unique characteristic that scientists call  hybrid vigour. It is a vigour because the genes from the original parents in the saved grains as ‘seeds’ start segregating, thus reducing the potential of the seeds.”

    Dr. Oikeh also addressed concerns that farmers and traders are not adequately informed about GMO crops to make informed choices about whether to plant them. He explained that research and development for GM crops in Nigeria have been ongoing for more than 10 years at various research centers. Multiple confined field trials and national performance or variety certification trials have been conducted with farmers in different states. He noted that during these trials, information campaigns were undertaken to educate farmers and the public. For example, with PBR cowpea, farmers in cowpea-producing states have been sensitized and educated on the benefits and safety of the beans.

    Reacting to the House of Representatives’ order to halt GMO crops in Nigeria pending an investigation, Dr. Oikeh emphasised that approvals for GM crops are granted by the Federal Government through its mandated agency, the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA), along with other supporting institutions. These competent agencies closely examined and cleared TELA maize as safe for cultivation and consumption by the Nigerian public. Dr. Oikeh reassured the public of the health safety of TELA maize.

    On fears about the health implications of consuming GMO seeds and taking substances alien to the body. Dr. Oikeh explained that GMO crops undergo rigorous health and safety research under the supervision of the NBMA to ensure they are safe for humans, livestock, and the environment.

    According to him, Nigerian authorities adhere to the most rigorous global standards when approving crops for food and feed. Addressing accusations that the AATF and the Federal Government have a hidden agenda regarding GMOs, which is why they are being forced on the people, he emphasised that the government is the principal custodian of the health and safety of its citizens and would not authorise unsafe food or practices. He added that food security is a primary agenda for all countries worldwide, and Nigeria is keen to leverage the benefits of modern agricultural technology to transform the economy and reduce dependence on large food imports, which are often GM foods. The Principal Investigator of TELA Maize, Professor Rabiu Adamu, who led the team of scientists to develop the new crop varieties at the IAR, Zaria, highlighted the health benefits of adopting the hybrid maize varieties. According to Adamu, the widespread and intensive cultivation of TELA maize will have public health benefits, such as reducing grain damage, which predisposes the grains to mycotoxins. It will also decrease the usage of pesticides and reduce farmers’ exposure to pesticide hazards.