The Nation Newspaper

Category: Special Report

  • The triumph of military over bandit leaders

    The triumph of military over bandit leaders

    Nigeria’s northern regions, particularly the North-West, have been ravaged by violent “bandit” groups responsible for mass kidnappings and deadly attacks. However, the Nigerian military has made significant progress, neutralising several notorious bandit leaders through strategic operations. ALAO ABIODUN and IBRAHIM ADAM reports.

    The roots of the banditry crisis can be traced back to 2011, when clashes between Hausa farmers and Fulani pastoralists escalated into widespread violence. What started as localized disputes grew into a full-blown insurgency, with bandits attacking villages, abducting school children, and demanding ransoms.

    The states of Zamfara, Kaduna, and Katsina have borne the brunt of these activities, with villages frequently falling victim to brutal raids.

    Over the years, security agencies have consistently launched onslaughts on these criminals, with the Nigerian military taking a lead role. Military jets have carried out airstrikes on bandit enclaves, while ground troops have engaged in fierce battles.

    In May 2024, the Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru, revealed that over 9,300 bandits and insurgents had been killed in the past year, while 7,000 had been arrested.

    Dogo Gide: The mastermind behind Zamfara’s terror

    Dogo Gide was one of the most infamous bandit leaders, responsible for a series of brutal attacks across Zamfara, Niger, and Katsina states. His name gained notoriety after orchestrating the abduction of over 300 students from Government Science Secondary School in Kankara, Katsina State, in 2019.

    His death in early 2024, following a coordinated military airstrike, marked a major milestone in the fight against banditry.

    Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, described Gide’s elimination as a turning point: “By eliminating Dogo Gide, we have cut off the head of a serpent that has terrorized the North for too long. No bandit leader can escape the might of our military forces,”

    Buharin Daji: The bandit kingpin

    Buharin Daji, another notorious figure, left a legacy of terror in Zamfara and the wider North-West. Following his death in 2018, his successor, Ali Daji, continued the group’s reign of terror until he, too, was killed in 2024 during a precision military operation.

    General Musa declared: ‘Buharin Daji’s legacy of terror is now over. We have dismantled one of the most sophisticated bandit networks in the North-West,”

    Halilu Sububu: The architect of rural insecurity

    Operating in Zamfara and Kebbi states, Halilu Sububu was deeply involved in cattle rustling and arms smuggling, which fueled rural insecurity.

    Sububu was a notorious figure whose vast wealth, acquired through criminal activities, enabled him to establish a significant foothold in the region. His reign ended in late 2023 when a joint military operation neutralized him.

    General Musa emphasised: “Halilu Sububu’s reign of terror has ended. This is proof that no criminal can evade justice forever,”

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    Kachalla Turji: The terror of Sokoto

    Kachalla Turji, known for his brutality, led numerous attacks across Sokoto, Zamfara, and Niger states. His death in January 2024, following a military airstrike, provided a significant morale boost for the Nigerian military.

    “Kachalla Turji’s death represents a turning point in our fight against banditry,” General Musa remarked, further underlining the military’s resolve to rid the North of banditry.

    Bala Wuta: The commander of gunmen

    Bala Wuta was a feared bandit leader notorious for his involvement in large-scale cattle rustling and attacks on military installations.

    His death during a military offensive in Katsina State in 2024 sent shockwaves through his gang, weakening their grip on the region.

    “Bala Wuta’s fall signifies our commitment to ending all forms of criminality in the North,” stated General Musa.

    Nagona Iskilu: The ruthless enforcer

    Nagona Iskilu’s name struck fear into the hearts of many, particularly in Zamfara State. He controlled a vast network of bandits involved in cattle theft and kidnappings.

    His elimination in mid-2024, after a successful military raid on his camp, is expected to significantly disrupt the coordination of bandit activities in the state.

    General Musa expressed optimism that Iskilu’s death would bring much-needed relief to Zamfara residents.

    Dankarami: The power behind the guns

    Dankarami was a formidable bandit leader who operated in the dense forests of Katsina and Zamfara states. His ruthless approach included high-profile kidnappings and attacks on law enforcement agents. His demise in early 2024, following a military ambush, dealt a serious blow to banditry in the region.

    General Musa affirmed that: “Dankarami’s death removes a major pillar of banditry in this area,”

    Auwal Daudawa: The man behind the Kankara kidnappings

    Auwal Daudawa, the mastermind of the infamous 2020 abduction of 344 students from Kankara, initially surrendered to the authorities under an amnesty program.

    However, after returning to banditry, he was killed in a military operation in 2024.

    His death serves as a stark reminder that no criminal can escape justice, as General Musa reiterated: “Auwal Daudawa’s death is a reminder that no criminal can escape justice, no matter how many times they return to their old ways,”

    Goma Sama’ila: The fearsome strategist

    Goma Sama’ila, known for his strategic brilliance in organizing cross-border raids, was eliminated in a 2023 airstrike. His removal dealt a significant blow to the bandits’ logistical and communication networks.

    “Goma Sama’ila’s death will severely disrupt bandit operations, as he was one of their most intelligent and elusive leaders,” General Musa stated.

    Nasiru Tekawa: The bloodthirsty leader

    Nasiru Tekawa’s cruelty in executing kidnappings and attacks on security forces earned him a fearsome reputation in Kaduna State.

    He was killed in 2023 during a military raid, marking the end of one of the most brutal chapters in Northern Nigeria’s banditry crisis.

    “Nasiru Tekawa was responsible for unspeakable atrocities. His elimination is a huge relief for the people of Kaduna,” said General Musa.

    Halilu Sububu

    Halilu Sububu was a feared bandit leader responsible for numerous attacks and kidnappings across northern Nigeria. His vast network spread terror in rural communities, causing mass displacements and economic disruption.

    Sububu’s ability to evade military operations made him a challenging target until his eventual death, which significantly weakened his group’s activities and restored some peace to affected areas.

    Buhari Alhaji Halidu (aka “Buharin Yadi”)

    Buhari Alhaji Halidu, known as “Buharin Yadi,” terrorized citizens in Kaduna, Katsina, Niger, and Zamfara states through kidnappings, robberies, and killings.

    His violent reign left many communities in fear, but his death in a military operation marked a turning point in the fight against banditry, bringing relief to those affected by his criminal activities.

    Dangote

    Dangote, a notorious bandit leader in Katsina State, led a gang involved in kidnappings, robberies, and attacks on villages. He was killed in a gun battle between his group and Kachalla Dankarami’s camp in the Dumbunrun Forest.

    His death weakened bandit networks in the region, reducing violence and restoring a sense of security in Katsina.

    Boderi Isyaku

    Boderi Isyaku was behind the kidnapping of 39 students and the attack on the Nigerian Defence Academy in 2021. His criminal activities caused widespread fear and unrest, especially in Kaduna State.

    Isyaku’s death in a military operation ended his reign of terror and disrupted his network, significantly reducing bandit attacks in the region.

    Kachalla Dan Chaki

    Kachalla Dan Chaki led a bandit group responsible for mass kidnappings and attacks in northern Nigeria. He was feared for his brutality and the large-scale operations he orchestrated.

    Dan Chaki’s death during a military offensive dealt a blow to banditry in the area, destabilizing his group and diminishing their influence.

    Dogo Gudali

    Dogo Gudali, a prominent bandit leader, was involved in violent raids and kidnappings across northern Nigeria.

    His criminal enterprise terrorized local communities, forcing many residents to flee. Gudali was eventually neutralized in a military operation, weakening his group’s activities and restoring stability to the region.

    Dogo Rabe

    Dogo Rabe was a notorious bandit leader operating in Zamfara and Katsina states. His gang caused extensive damage to communities through killings and kidnappings.

    Rabe was killed in an Air Force strike during a military operation, which significantly disrupted his group’s activities and brought some relief to the terrorized areas.

    Alhaji Auta and Kachalla Ruga

    Alhaji Auta and Kachalla Ruga led a criminal network that terrorized Zamfara State through kidnappings and robberies.

    Both were killed during a military raid on their hideouts in Gusami Forest, leading to the collapse of their gang and a reduction in bandit attacks in the region.

    Rufai Maikaji

    Rufai Maikaji was a deadly bandit leader commanding over a hundred fighters. His group carried out numerous attacks in Kaduna State, causing significant unrest.

    Maikaji was killed in a military operation, which crippled his group’s activities and brought a sense of security to the region.

    Ya’u

    Ya’u was a bandit leader notorious for using heavy weaponry to terrorize residents of Burra and neighboring communities.

    He was killed in an ambush by troops at a strategic crossing point, effectively ending his gang’s reign of terror and restoring peace to the area.

    Alhaji Karki

    Alhaji Karki was a former repentant bandit who returned to criminality, leading deadly attacks and kidnappings in Niger State.

    He was killed while attempting to overrun a military unit, with his death serving as a deterrent to other bandits considering a return to crime.

    Bandit Leader “Yellow”

    Yellow operated multiple bandit camps across Zamfara, Kaduna, and Katsina states. His gang was involved in various criminal activities, including kidnappings and robberies.

    Yellow was killed in air strikes by the Nigerian Airforce, which dismantled his operations and reduced bandit activities in the region.

    CDS’s vision for ending insecurity

    Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has continuously emphasized the military’s determination to eradicate insecurity across Nigeria.

    Under his leadership, the military has adopted a multi-pronged approach, combining intelligence, community collaboration, and relentless air and ground operations.

    “Insecurity is a complex issue, but our recent victories prove that we are on the right track. The Nigerian military is evolving to meet these challenges, and we will not rest until all bandit leaders are brought to justice,” General Musa assured.

    He also stressed the need for local communities to cooperate with the military by providing intelligence to help root out the remaining criminal elements.

    The neutralization of these notorious bandit leaders represents a significant milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against insecurity.

    The military’s successes have sent a powerful message that no bandit leader is beyond the reach of justice. With the continued support of the government and local communities, the country moves closer to achieving lasting peace.

  • N100b credit scheme to revitalise manufacturing, boost purchasing power

    N100b credit scheme to revitalise manufacturing, boost purchasing power

    Nigeria’s economy grapples with manufacturing inefficiencies and waning consumer purchasing power. In response, the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration unveiled a transformative N100 billion consumer credit initiative as a central element of the 2024 budget. This ground-breaking initiative seeks to rejuvenate the manufacturing sector and spark economic growth by enhancing consumer demand, with the goal of unlocking N180 trillion annually in consumer credit to elevate living standards and drive economic progress. ASSISTANT EDITOR NDUKA CHIEJINA reports.

    The Nigerian economy has faced persistent challenges, including manufacturing inefficiencies and limited consumer purchasing power. To address these issues, the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration introduced a transformative initiative: a N100 billion consumer credit facility, a key element of the 2024 budget. This innovative approach marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s fiscal policy and economic planning, aiming to revitalize the country’s struggling manufacturing sector.

    The Minister for Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, emphasised the strategic significance of this facility, stating, “We have allocated N100 billion to support consumer credit because we recognise its potential to drive economic recovery. The manufacturing sector faces two critical challenges: improving production efficiency and expanding consumer demand.” This initiative is central to the administration’s strategy for stimulating economic growth and addressing these dual challenges.

    Bagudu further elaborated on how consumer credit can bridge existing gaps in the economy. By allowing individuals to purchase goods and services on credit, the policy, he said, is anticipated to boost consumer demand and stimulate production, enabling manufacturers to scale their operations and align with global standards. “The introduction of consumer credit is a strategic move to rejuvenate our manufacturing sector and help it meet international benchmarks. We view this fund as a catalyst for growth,” Bagudu remarked.

    Despite the promising outlook, Nigeria faces a significant challenge due to the lack of comprehensive data on credit demand. Bagudu acknowledged that the absence of reliable market data has created uncertainty for many operators and investors. Without a clear understanding of the consumer credit market size, the full impact of this initiative remains uncertain. Nevertheless, the establishment of this facility represents a bold step towards unlocking new growth opportunities and fostering a more vibrant, consumer-driven economy.

    Consumer credit, often regarded as a catalyst for economic growth, presents a valuable opportunity to bridge the gap between production and consumption. By providing individuals with the financial flexibility to make purchases on credit, this scheme is expected to boost consumer spending, which, in turn, can drive demand for locally manufactured goods. This increased demand is crucial for the growth and sustainability of businesses, especially in the manufacturing sector, which has long faced challenges such as low patronage and outdated production techniques.

    However, the effectiveness of the consumer credit scheme hinges on a thorough understanding of the market, underscoring the importance of reliable data. The lack of up-to-date information on credit demand has left investors and credit providers in a state of uncertainty, unable to accurately assess the size of Nigeria’s consumer credit market. To address this knowledge gap, Stears, a leading data analysis firm, has developed the Credit Market Mapping Model.

    This model employs robust data and innovative methodologies to map out Nigeria’s consumer credit market, covering both formal and informal sectors. By offering valuable market insights, the Credit Market Mapping Model aims to help operators identify and capitalize on untapped opportunities within the credit space.

    The consumer credit scheme has significant implications for Nigeria’s broader economy. On the positive side, it has the potential to spur considerable economic growth by enhancing consumer spending. With increased access to credit, individuals are likely to make more purchases, thereby boosting demand and stimulating higher production levels. This uptick in demand can lead to job creation and greater overall economic activity, contributing to a more vibrant and resilient economy.

    However, the scheme also presents potential risks. For instance, if not managed with caution, the extension of credit could result in excessive consumer debt, which might lead to financial instability. Defaults on debt could have cascading effects, diminishing lenders’ willingness to provide further credit and potentially weakening the financial system.

    Additionally, high levels of consumer indebtedness could undermine long-term economic growth by limiting savings and investment opportunities. Thus, while the scheme holds promise for economic stimulation, careful management and oversight will be essential to mitigate these risks and ensure sustainable benefits.

    Unlocking N180 trillion in consumer credit annually

    The introduction of Nigeria’s consumer credit scheme is poised to be more than just a short-term solution for consumers and manufacturers; it represents a pivotal opportunity to transform the nation’s economy. With the consumer credit market estimated at N180 trillion annually, this initiative could significantly enhance the financial empowerment of millions of Nigerians, drive business growth, and stimulate unprecedented levels of economic activity.

    The potential impact of this market is immense. A credit market valued at N180 trillion annually could serve as a powerful catalyst for various sectors, including manufacturing, retail, services, and real estate. By broadening access to credit, the government aims to establish a self-sustaining cycle of increased demand, enhanced production, and economic expansion that benefits all sectors of the economy. This transformative approach could unlock vast opportunities and drive substantial progress across Nigeria’s economic landscape.

    In his remarks, Senator Bagudu highlighted the transformative potential of the consumer credit initiative. “Consumer credit is not just a financial tool,” he stated, adding, “it is an economic catalyst. By enabling individuals and businesses to access credit, we can unlock the potential for N180 trillion in economic activities each year.” This projection underscores the profound impact the scheme could have, extending beyond individual consumers to significantly influence the overall growth trajectory of the Nigerian economy.

    Consumer credit drives this potential by enhancing purchasing power. With access to credit, consumers are no longer limited by their immediate income, allowing them to make substantial purchases they might otherwise defer, such as homes, vehicles, and electronics. This increase in consumer spending directly benefits businesses, especially in the manufacturing and retail sectors, by boosting revenues, fostering expansion, and creating job opportunities. As a result, the scheme has the capacity to stimulate broader economic growth and contribute to a more dynamic and prosperous economy.

    Unlocking N180 trillion annually in consumer credit could significantly elevate Nigeria’s middle class. A thriving consumer credit market would equip individuals with the financial means to invest in key assets such as property, education, and healthcare—essential elements for long-term economic mobility. As more Nigerians access credit, they can enhance their quality of life, accumulate wealth, and make more substantial contributions to the country’s economic development.

    Nevertheless, achieving this potential involves overcoming several challenges. Nigeria’s financial infrastructure must be robust enough to handle such a large volume of credit transactions, and effective regulatory frameworks are crucial to ensure responsible lending practices. Without stringent oversight, there is a risk that rapid credit expansion could lead to unsustainable debt levels, as seen in other economies where unchecked credit growth resulted in significant financial instability. Addressing these challenges will be essential for realizing the benefits of the consumer credit scheme while safeguarding economic stability.

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    To mitigate these risks, the Nigerian government, in collaboration with financial institutions, is focusing on developing a robust credit infrastructure to ensure the smooth functioning of the consumer credit market. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is anticipated to play a crucial role in setting and enforcing policies that promote fair lending practices while ensuring that financial institutions adhere to guidelines designed to protect consumers from predatory lending.

    Additionally, financial technology (fintech) is poised to significantly impact the consumer credit landscape in Nigeria. Fintech companies have already transformed the traditional banking sector by offering more accessible and inclusive financial services, and they are expected to bring similar innovations to consumer credit. By leveraging advanced technologies, fintech firms can provide faster, more efficient credit solutions, particularly to underserved populations. This digital transformation has the potential to further accelerate the growth of the consumer credit market, making credit more accessible and integrating more Nigerians into the formal economy.

    Beyond immediate consumer spending, the N180 trillion consumer credit potential could catalyse significant long-term investments. Access to credit will enable more Nigerians to invest in real estate, small businesses, and other wealth-building assets. Such investments are expected to spur job creation, particularly in crucial sectors like construction, agriculture, and manufacturing, all of which are vital to Nigeria’s economic advancement.

    The government also envisions extending consumer credit beyond the traditional middle-class base. By reaching out to lower-income individuals and those in the informal sector, the scheme aims to democratise financial services. This expansion will not only empower individuals at the grassroots level but also integrate more people into the formal economy. As a result, this increased participation could boost tax revenues and promote more inclusive economic growth, benefiting a broader segment of the population and fostering a more equitable economic landscape.

    Despite the enormous potential of the consumer credit scheme, industry experts emphasise the critical role of financial literacy in maximising its benefits. Educating consumers about responsible borrowing and debt management is essential to prevent rising default rates and ensure the long-term sustainability of the credit market. The government, in collaboration with financial institutions, is expected to implement financial education campaigns to help Nigerians understand how to effectively use credit without falling into debt traps.

    The Chief Executive Officer of the Consumer Credit Corporation (CreditCorp), Engr. Uzoma Nwagba, highlighted this in an exclusive interview with The Nation in Abuja. He noted that “With consumer credit facilities, individuals with modest incomes should be able to access essential items such as vehicles, solar panels, cell phones, laptops, education, and housing, and pay for them over extended periods. This access improves the quality of life and promotes financial stability.”

    CreditCorp was established by the Nigerian government to spearhead this initiative, with Engr. Nwagba noting that this strategy is designed not as a short-term fix but as a long-term solution timed at creating a financially inclusive system that benefits people across various income levels. The goal is to expand credit access to 80 million economically active Nigerians, thereby boosting consumer spending and driving economic growth across multiple sectors.

    Historically, Nigeria’s credit market has been fragmented, with many lenders reluctant to extend credit due to concerns about defaults and a lack of reliable credit data. To address these challenges, CreditCorp has been entrusted with the responsibility of developing a robust financial system capable of supporting substantial volumes of consumer credit while maintaining financial stability. Engr. Nwagba emphasised this task, stating, “The financial system and the existing lenders are those who already possess the capital. Our primary objective is to strengthen the country’s credit infrastructure.”

    A key innovation in this initiative is the establishment of a centralized credit scoring system. Under this system, every economically active Nigerian will have a credit score linked to their National Identification Number (NIN), which will monitor their credit behaviour. This approach aims to foster a more transparent and accountable credit culture in Nigeria.

    “With this system, every economically active Nigerian will have a credit score attached to their NIN, ensuring that credit behaviour is tracked transparently,” Nwagba explained, pointing out that “This will help both lenders and borrowers operate with greater accountability and build a more reliable credit market.”

    This centralised credit scoring system will enable financial institutions to access accurate and comprehensive credit histories, simplifying the risk assessment process and facilitating the extension of loans. By providing a clear view of borrowers’ credit behaviours, the system is expected to promote responsible borrowing and reduce default rates, as borrowers will be more aware of how their credit actions affect their future financial opportunities.

    While CreditCorp is focused on establishing this supportive framework, the actual disbursement of consumer credit will be handled by various financial institutions, including commercial banks, microfinance banks, and fintech companies. These institutions, already equipped with the necessary capital and infrastructure, will leverage their reach to serve millions of consumers. The government will complement this by offering additional support, such as financial guarantees or bulk capital.

    “The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is a key partner in this initiative, along with the credit registry and credit bureaus,” Nwagba noted, adding that “Together, we aim to ensure that all consumer credit transactions are recorded in the credit infrastructure, thereby enhancing trust and enabling more lending.”

    This partnership is poised to significantly boost lending volumes, with CreditCorp playing a pivotal role by either providing funds to financial institutions or offering guarantees that mitigate their risk exposure. By alleviating concerns about defaults, financial institutions will be more inclined to offer loans at lower, concessionary interest rates, making credit more affordable for consumers.

    The initial phase of the consumer credit initiative aims to reach 500,000 Nigerians by the end of 2025. This cautious approach reflects the government’s strategy of gradually scaling the programme, ensuring that the necessary infrastructure and systems are in place before expanding to a broader audience. Ultimately, the goal is to extend consumer credit to 80 million Nigerians, thus making it accessible to a significant portion of the population.

    Initially, the programme will target civil servants, leveraging their stable incomes and employment status to build a solid foundation. However, the long-term vision is to make consumer credit available to all economically active Nigerians, irrespective of their profession or income level. This approach aims to democratize access to credit, enabling more individuals to invest in essential goods and services that can improve their quality of life.

    The consumer credit initiative has already sparked considerable interest, with over two million individuals responding to CreditCorp’s call for expressions of interest. This strong dem and highlights the extensive need for credit in Nigeria and underscores the initiative’s potential to significantly alter the financial landscape. However, balancing widespread access to consumer credit with the need for responsible borrowing presents a significant challenge for both the government and financial institutions.

    Nwagba underscored this point, emphasising that there will be consequences for those who fail to meet their credit obligations. “If consumers fail to repay their credit, they will negatively impact their credit score, and that consequence is firmly enforced,” Nwagba warned, adding, “Borrowers must understand that failing to manage their credit responsibly will have repercussions on their credit standing, affecting their future financial opportunities.”

    The emphasis on credit responsibility is vital for maintaining the sustainability of the consumer credit market. By linking credit scores to individuals’ NINs and ensuring transparency in credit behaviours, the government aims to foster a culture of responsible borrowing and lending. A key component of this initiative is the provision of concessionary interest rates. While financial institutions will set the specific rates, CreditCorp’s support through capital provisions and guarantees is expected to enable these institutions to offer lower interest rates. This support is designed to make credit more affordable and accessible to a broader segment of the population.

    “Beneficiaries of consumer credit will repay their loans at a concessionary interest rate, which will be determined by the financial institutions they engage with,” Nwagba explained. “Our goal is to facilitate easier access to capital for these institutions, allowing them to extend lower interest rates to consumers,” he added.

    Nationwide demand for consumer credit surges

    CreditCorp has reported a remarkable response to its Expression of Interest (EoI) drive, receiving N1.3 trillion in consumer credit requests from over one million Nigerians within just one week. This substantial demand underscores the critical need for accessible credit across the country.

    The EoI process served not only as a means for individuals to apply for loans but also as a valuable survey tool, providing deep insights into the financial needs of Nigerians. Applications were received from 723 out of 774 local government areas, spanning all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), reflecting widespread demand in both urban and rural areas.

    The survey data revealed that the average loan request amounted to N1,115,088. The majority of applicants were aged between 26 and 40. The data also showed that 74 per cent of submissions came from men, while women, despite being fewer in number, tended to request larger amounts for household expenses. Common purposes for the loans included financing small businesses (18%), purchasing homes (15%), and covering personal or household expenses (16%).

    CreditCorp boss, Nwagba, highlighted the growing involvement of non-commercial banks, such as microfinance institutions and fintech companies, in extending credit to underserved populations. The Federal Government has committed N200 billion to support the consumer credit initiative, with participating financial institutions providing loans at concessionary rates. Additionally, the government is mitigating risk for lenders through credit guarantees, which aims to encourage more financial institutions to participate in the scheme.

    The initial phase of the scheme involves the deployment of N100 billion, focusing on civil servants. Approximately 500,000 civil servants will be eligible for loans to enhance their financial stability and purchasing power. This initiative is expected to stimulate consumer spending, improve social mobility, and contribute to Nigeria’s broader economic growth by making affordable credit more accessible to a larger segment of the population.

    What experts are saying

    Chief Economist at ARKK Economics and Data Limited, in Abuja, Dr. Samson Galadima Simon, emphasized the importance of consumer credit in modern economies. He noted: “Consumer credit is a critical component of a modern economy, which Nigeria aspires to become. Globally, since the advent of mass consumption and regular incomes, economies have leveraged consumer credit to boost consumption, prosperity, and overall economic well-being.”

    Dr. Simon pointed out that in Nigeria, consumer credit has yet to make significant inroads, with less than a million Nigerians having access to credit cards, auto loans, or mortgages. He commended the Tinubu administration for its determination to transform Nigeria’s financial landscape through the introduction of CrediCorp, the Consumer Credit Scheme. “This initiative aims to enable as many as 50 percent of working Nigerian consumers to access credit for personal purchases by 2030,” he said, adding, however, that “While this is a commendable goal, achieving it will undoubtedly present significant challenges.”

    “This consumer credit scheme should help Nigerians get loans from financial institutions or buy things on credit far more easily than before its coming on stream. If that happens to a sizeable number of Nigerians, it would grow the economy and help boost the economic status of an average Nigerian. It would boost the chances of Nigeria attaining the $1 Trillion economy it craves as pushed by the Tinubu government,” he said.

    Dr. Simon cautions against unrestrained access to consumer credit, drawing lessons from global experiences. He notes, “It’s not all sunshine and rainbows. The issues seen with consumer credit in South Korea and the student loan troubles in the USA should serve as cautionary tales for Nigeria. Allowing unfettered access to consumer credit could lead to significant problems down the line.”

    In contrast, the Managing Director/CEO of SD&D Capital Management Limited, Mr. Gbolade Idakolo, views the consumer credit scheme as a positive development. He told The Nation that “The launch of the consumer credit scheme is timely, given that the purchasing power of ordinary Nigerians has declined by over 70 per cent in the past year. In advanced countries, consumer credit schemes are introduced across various sectors to help citizens access basic necessities.

    “I believe that expanding the scheme to at least 20 million beneficiaries would have a tremendous impact and demonstrate that the government is invested in the well-being of its people. If properly implemented, the scheme could boost the economy by increasing consumer purchases, thereby stimulating economic activity. It is a crucial welfare program that deserves dedicated resources for successful implementation.”

  • Erratic power supply cripples poultry businesses in Anambra

    Erratic power supply cripples poultry businesses in Anambra

    • Farmers resort to lanterns, charcoal

    Despite the integral role poultry and fisheries sectors play in the economy, farmers in Anambra State struggle with challenges posed by erratic electricity, which negatively impacts their operations and profitability, writes EMMA ELEKWA.

    Anthonia Nwabueze, a small holder poultry farmer in Otuocha community in Anambra East Local Government Area (LGA) of Anambra State, woke up to see about 250 birds lying lifeless in her poultry. It was her worst day, having purchased the birds barely three months earlier.

    Recounting her ordeal in an interview with The Nation, Nwabueze said she was at a loss as to the next move to make, particularly in view of the prevailing economic hardship being faced by all and sundry across the country.

    “I bought a total of 300 broilers shortly after Easter celebrations. Each of them cost between N750 and N900. They were all healthy and in good condition. For the two months plus I reared them, I didn’t observe any serious problems with their growth and development.

    “The only fear I nursed was their feed consumption. Although the cost of feed has increased, I made sure there was enough for the birds. But I discovered they consumed more in the day than at night due to the absence of light in their apartment,” she narrated.

    Due to epileptic power supply, she had to resort to using torch lights and lanterns to provide warmth and illumination for the birds. But as the power supply got worse, the artificial lighting did very little.

    “We may see electricity probably once or twice a week in my area. I could only afford a charcoal pot which was inadequate for the entire poultry house. Since the birds needed light to see their food to eat properly, I suspect that malnutrition must have contributed to the loss of the birds,” she explained.

    Nwabueze is not alone in this predicament. Several women farmers in the state who had abandoned crop farming for poultry and fish farming following inherent dangers such as insecurity and perceived benefits in agriculture business are currently regretting their decisions. No thanks to the same electricity challenges.

    Nwakego Okoye, another poultry farmer from Akabukwu Uruagu in Nnewi North LGA says the worsening electricity supply in her area has impeded growth and maturity of her birds, negatively impacting her business.

    “I’ve been in this business for over thirty years. When I started, the power issue was reasonably steady. But presently, the supply has been erratic. Although I’ve not recorded much loss in terms of death of birds, the lack of electricity also affects the growth and maturity of the birds,” she said.

    Okoye explained that the birds are unable to mature in time due to their inability to eat well, especially at night, when they can’t see their food.

    “So, the birds which I’m supposed to sell within five weeks stay up to seven to eight weeks before being taken to the market,” she said.

    Another poultry farmer, Georgina Akunyiba, who also serves as the Anambra State coordinator of the Small-Scale Women Farmers Organisation in Nigeria (SWOFON) said she lost about twenty birds due to the absence of power supply for several weeks.

    “I and many farmers have lost our birds as a result of this power challenge. Due to the harsh weather, you see the birds cluster together in a place to get warmth. Some will climb on top of others and as a result of the stampede, some will die,” she said.

    To cater for the birds and prevent more losses, she uses kerosene and charcoal stove to heat up the environment. However, the rainy season frustrates her efforts and bites into her profits.

    “You keep covering the birds with tarpaulin, as well as burning kerosene and charcoal for the entire night, making the cost of production to be on the high side. Currently, a litre of kerosene is N1,400 and you need not less than three litres to heat up the house for the birds. For charcoal, a bag is N7, 000.

    “Some nights, you may need to keep vigil to ensure the stove or charcoal light doesn’t go off. Otherwise, by the time you wake up the following morning, you will discover some of the birds are dead as a result of the cold,” Akunyiba said.

    Akunyiba’s son, Ifeanyichukwu, an animal scientist and farmer, with specialty in fishery, said it has not been easy since he ventured into the business. He listed lack of funds, water and electricity supply as major setbacks of the business.

    “Since the fishes need steady fresh water, we change their water regularly so they can have enough oxygen to guarantee their survival. In fact, we had to dig a borehole to ensure we didn’t run out of water.

    “Unfortunately, due to power outage, we find it difficult to pump water and if we must use a generator to power the sumo, we buy fuel. This, of course has led to increase in price of production of the fingerling and consequent reduction in sales.

    “Before now, we used to have about 1,500 fishes, but now, the number has reduced to 800 pieces,” he lamented.

    For Chigozie Uzoewu, from Amafor Nkpor 2, Idemili North LGA, poultry farming had been admirable while watching those into the business until the day she decided to establish hers. According to her, she never thought of the importance of electricity in the business until she was neck deep.

    “I started with 50 birds. I didn’t realise the importance of electricity in the business until I ventured into it. The birds need steady power, morning, afternoon and night. If the birds feed morning and night, in a month’s time, they’re ready for sale. But if there’s no light, especially at night, they find it difficult to eat,” she said.

    Uzoewu’s first loss was over 20 broilers which she said must have been due to cold weather. She, however, persevered and managed to start rearing over 700 birds. Over time, due to epileptic power supply, she lost most of them.

    “I thought of buying a generator but the increase in fuel prices discouraged me. Imagine buying a litre of fuel for N800; I used to keep up to 700 birds, but they are currently 200,” she said.

    To survive and feed her family, Uzoewu said she had to open up a mini mart in front of her house, equipping it with proceeds from the poultry business.

    “This is the only way I am to feed my family and pay my children’s school fees,” she added.

    At Mgbachu village, Nkpor, Sunday Ilechukwu, who spoke on behalf of his wife, a farmer who was absent from home when our reporter visited, said epileptic power supply had not posed a serious challenge to them as they were able to install solar panels in their farm. The 44- year-old man said he had to establish a poultry, fishery and piggery farm for his wife who he said is a graduate of Agriculture.

    “We started this business over seven years ago with a huge capital. But three years ago, our farm was attacked by a strange air-borne disease. It killed over 300 pigs. Out of this number, 52 were pregnant. The few remaining, we sold them off. We currently have 10 fishes in our pond. The number is small because we sold many and plunged the proceeds into crop farming.

    “We were not badly affected by electricity because we make use of solar energy. We also bought a big generator through loan. But for a long time now, we’ve not put on the generator due to the high cost of fuel. In fact, since this year, we’ve not brought the generator outside. It has really affected our business.”

    Ilechukwu also decried regular visits of government officials to their farms to gather information about their challenges, but without corresponding assistance.

    “After capturing our information and giving us forms to fill, we won’t hear from them (government agents) again,” he lamented.

    While others are struggling to keep their poultry business functioning, that of Mrs. Eziamaka Ibemesi, located at Amafor Nkpo, has packed up. Narrating her ordeal, the visibly devastated widow said buying chickens has been a serious challenge not to talk of feeding them.

    “I’ve been in this business for more than 10 years from 50 birds to 150 birds. But now I don’t have any. At some point, I started going from house to house begging people for assistance. Currently, I can no longer cope, especially with the death of my husband. I’ve been managing myself,” she said.

    Before deciding to shut down the poultry, she explained that the inconsistent power supply proved to be a burden.

    “I used a lantern to heat up the poultry house. But kerosene became too expensive. When there’s no light, the birds catch cold and sometimes you see them coughing. Of course, you will still have to buy drugs for them to take,” she said.

    The situation is no different for Njideka Uzoegwu, another poultry farmer based in Amafor Nkpo Agu, who says the erratic power supply was manageable when fuel prices were still low. But now it has become frustrating.

    “I started this poultry business over 20 years ago to enable me to train my children. I have 200 birds. We’ve been having light problems and we keep spending huge money on fuel for our generator. In a week, we spend about N10,000,” she bemoaned.

    Another farmer, Amaechi Rachel whose farm is located in Ebenebe in Awka North LGA said she suspended poultry for fishery due to low funds and erratic power supply.

    “We moved into this place last year in January and started with 500 birds. We have customers who come as far as Awka to patronise us. We use rechargeable bulbs which get recharged once there is power. We also have a standby generator. But the cost of fueling it is now something else. We spend minimum of N10,000 on weekly basis.

    “Anytime there’s a power outage, the birds will scream. They can’t eat without light. But currently we don’t have birds due to lack of money. We decided to go into fishery due to the high cost of feed,” she said.

    Favour Nwora, SWOFON coordinator in Awka North LGA, also lamented power supply challenges in their area and its impact on poultry and fishery businesses.

    “It has not been easy in our area. The epileptic power supply has been affecting our business adversely. Even when they bring the light, it won’t last up to 4 hours. We’re really suffering,” she added.

    Read Also: Vehicle kills girl, injure six others in Anambra market

    These accounts of small-scale poultry and fisheries farmers in several LGAs across Anambra State highlight the harsh reality faced by these agricultural businesses that rely on a consistent power supply to function. Despite the integral role the poultry and fisheries sectors play in Nigeria’s economy, the farmers struggle with the challenges posed by erratic electricity, which negatively impacts their operations and profitability.

    Nigeria’s poultry and fisheries industry Data from United Nations’ Food and Agricultural Organisation, (FAO) indicates that Nigeria’s poultry industry is a significant contributor to the country’s GDP, accounting for 6-8% annually while poultry farming alone contributes to about 30% of the agriculture sector’s GDP. According to the Central Bank of Nigeria, (CBN), the poultry farming industry in the country as at 2019 was estimated to be worth around  1.6 trillion, making it the most commercialised sub-sector of the country’s agricultural landscape.

    Similarly, the country is the largest fish consumer in Africa and among the largest in the world, with an annual consumption of 3.2 million metric tons.

    The Director, Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (FMARD), Ime Umoh, during a stakeholders’ dialogue held in Abuja, revealed that Nigeria’s fish production stands at 1.2 million metric tonnes yearly, while the demand has risen to 3.6 million tonnes, leaving a deficit of about 2.5 million metric tonnes.

    According to him, the deficit is being supplemented by frozen fish importation, costing Nigeria millions in forex. He added that intensified efforts by the artisanal, industrial, and aquaculture value chain players are capable of bridging the gap.

    However, with evidence of poultry and fisheries farmers battling power supply challenges and high fuel prices, it remains uncertain whether the country will be able to fully meet domestic demand for these products in the near term, let alone compete effectively in the global marketplace.

    Jude Nwankwo, the Programme Manager, Agricultural Development Programme (ADP), State Ministry of Agriculture said his ministry has been supportive to both poultry and fishery farmers in the state, particularly the women, who he described as critical stakeholders in the agricultural production chain.

    When asked how the ministry has provided support to poultry and fishery farmers, he said, “our mandate as extension officers is to assist the farmers make effective use of indigenous technology, especially where the conventional methods are absent.

    “For example, we advise them to use either a stove or charcoal pot to ensure they don’t lose the birds to cold.”

    He further admitted that breeding chicks require electricity and that the lack of constant power supply is a national issue, but Anambra State was set to see an improvement given the commitment of the present administration.

    In March 2023, Chukwuma Soludo, governor of Anambra State, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), with the Enugu State Electricity Company (EEDC), to develop mechanisms that would ensure steady power supply across the state. According to the MoU, the state government will undertake and lead the development of a comprehensive, integrated energy resource plan that provides vital input on fuel sources, current and projected load/demand and potential locations for load-serving entities within the state, among other roles.

    The EEDC, on the other hand, will procure all regulatory approvals for enabling private sector investors and other stakeholders to participate in the development of the electricity supply chain in the state, among others.Speaking on the partnership, the chief executive officer of EEDC, Emeka Offor, said the implementation of the project will commence within 18 months, where major cities in Anambra State would begin to get at least 18 hours of power supply.

    However, the agonising testimonies of women poultry and fishery farmers around power supply is an indication that the lofty plan of the Soludo-led administration for the entire state has not materialised.

    Precisely in February this year, Governor Soludo at a South-East Business Roundtable and flag-off of the Light-up Nigeria Project by the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, in Enugu, lamented poor power supply to the people of the state, calling for the removal of gas from the exclusive legislative list to enable states with abundant gas reserves to explore the resource for power generation and other industrial purposes.

    According to him, such steps would give enough backing to the new Electricity Act 2023, which empowers governors and the private sector to generate, transmit, and distribute power within their jurisdictions.

    “Anambra has an abundance of gas, but we can’t take it and provide power for our people. We need electricity; Anambra is an industrial hub, but without power, we can’t do anything. If we do everything to fix all the areas of doing business, without power, that’s not going to work.

    “We need to unlock one other thing that is on the exclusive list, which is gas. With the federal government still having a stranglehold on gas, that is a challenge,” the governor stated.

    In April of this year, the federal government announced a hike in the price of natural gas for power generating companies, increasing it by 11 percent.

    An agribusiness consultant, Joshua Njimaezi, while lamenting impacts of electricity tariff hike on both poultry and fishery farming, said most farmers in the state no longer rear for business due to difficulty in breaking even.

    He said, “The tariff increase has caused great increase in prices of poultry and fish feed to about 40percent with its attendant negative impacts on the farmers. “Small-scale farmers are winding up because they can no longer meet the cost of production, feeds and other inputs.

    “Medium scale farmers are already downsizing, resulting to the cutting of their profit margin. Hence, they’re no longer rearing for business, but for fun.

    “The fishery farming, on the other hand, has skyrocketed prices of finished products; and since the buyers lack the purchasing power, the farmers end up rearing the fishes for a longer time, thereby eating into their profit line.

    “Same with those of poultry farmers. One can count the number of households that are still consuming chickens and eggs as a result of costs. A crate of egg is currently between N5,000 to N7000, depending the sizes.

    “Those selling at cost prices are looking for ways to push them out of their farms. Worse still, they may end up not selling at all, especially this period that is maize season.

    “Meanwhile, the more we rely on imported products to meet our domestic demands, the more we have a capital flight.”Again, the more we depend on imported products, the more it affects the GDP growth which is not good for the state and country at large.

    “Employment opportunities of our teeming youths will definitely drop since importation has overtaken productivity. This may lead to insecurity and chaos across the country.”

    Farmers demand government support for bountiful harvest

    Akunyiba decried existing gaps between government and farmers, underscoring the importance of closer relationships with the farmers, as well as their inclusion in the annual budget.

    “Just like Oliver Twist, the farmers need more. We’re begging for inclusion of farmers in the budget. They may be thinking we need water, whereas sugar is our problem. And when they provide us with the water, they will be rejoicing that they have satisfied us without knowing that they have not attended to our needs. 

    “But when they draw closer and rapport with us, especially during budget planning, then we can tell them exactly what we need. “Yes, the government has its priority, but we have to table ours. For example, we need steady power and water supply, quality feeds, vaccination and training by service providers, especially on recording,” she said.

    “We also need government intervention in the area of feeds for the birds in view of its high cost.

    “Unfortunately, once inputs are mentioned, focus is always on crop farming, like fertilizers, cassava and maize. Those of us dealing on livestocks are scarcely remembered.

    “However, we’ll prefer they estimate the cost of the feeds and give us the cash so we can buy the exact feeds we need. For example, I may prefer a particular feed, but they may bring the ones not good for my birds.

    “Besides, we know the real farmers who are into poultry and fishery and where to procure the exact feeds for day-old. Personally, I’m both a distributor and supplier of day-old.

    “For those in fishery, they need quality and less expensive feeds. For example, 1.5mm to 2mm to 9mm, fingerling.

    “The timing these inputs are received is also very important because the price of the feeds keep increasing on daily basis. A feed I sold for N19,500 last Friday was N20,800 on Monday. Just this month, the price of feeds has increased about three times.

    On the satisfaction derivable in the business, she said, “apart from being a hobby and taking care of the family, house rent, we’re happy we’re feeding the nation, regardless of the gains or losses.”

    SWOFON coordinator, Awka North LGA, Favour Nwora, also lamented power supply challenges in their area, calling for government’s intervention.

    “It has not been easy in our area. The epileptic power supply has been affecting our business adversely. Even when they bring the light, it won’t last up to 4 hours. We’re really suffering.

    “Those using gas, fuel or kerosene are not better. We’re just in the business to avoid being idle. Besides, it’s better to put the little money one has into a business. Otherwise, you may lose it completely.

    “We’re pleading with the government to intervene by improving the quality of power in our area so that our businesses can grow. We’ve been complaining and filling forms, yet nothing comes to us. Even when they allocate something to us, those things are distributed along party lines. And all of us can’t belong to the same party,” she lamented.

    • •This report was made possible with support from the International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR).
  • Restoring Plateau’s serenity

    Restoring Plateau’s serenity

    A new era of development through focused efforts on urban renewal, environmental revival, healthcare, infrastructure and security is taking place in Plateau State. By forming strategic partnerships and implementing key initiatives, the state government is working to enhance its potential. In this special report, KOLADE ADEYEMI details the steps being taken to rejuvenate Plateau State and uphold its reputation as Nigeria’s “Home of Peace and Tourism”

    Nestled in the heart of Nigeria, Plateau State is undergoing a profound transformation, emerging from years of challenges to reclaim its status as a beacon of natural beauty and tranquility. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and serene environment, Plateau State is on a mission to restore its charm and allure, asserting itself as one of Nigeria’s most captivating destinations.

    Once frequently marred by conflict and environmental degradation, Plateau State—often celebrated as the “Home of Peace and Tourism”—is now experiencing a renaissance. Under the leadership of Governor Caleb Mutfwang, the state is witnessing a comprehensive revival that combines environmental stewardship, cultural rejuvenation, and modern governance.

    A cornerstone of Governor Mutfwang’s vision is Executive Order 003, a landmark initiative aimed at revitalising the Jos-Bukuru metropolis. This order is not just a regulatory framework but a bold declaration of the Governor’s commitment to transforming Plateau State into a well-organised and aesthetically pleasing urban hub. The order addresses urban sprawl and aims to prevent Jos from degenerating into a chaotic expanse, focusing instead on creating a city that meets the needs of its residents and businesses while maintaining its natural beauty.

    The revitalisation efforts extend beyond urban management. One of the most notable projects is the restoration of the Jos Wildlife Park. Once neglected, this park is now being transformed into a vibrant sanctuary for wildlife, drawing eco-tourists and nature enthusiasts to experience Plateau’s untouched beauty. The conservation efforts are designed to preserve the park’s diverse ecosystems and enhance its role as a key attraction in the state. In addition to environmental restoration, Governor Mutfwang’s administration has prioritised the preservation of Plateau State’s cultural heritage. The ancient Nok Terraces, renowned for their prehistoric sculptures, have received significant attention. Restoration projects ensure that these archaeological treasures are preserved and made accessible to tourists, offering a glimpse into the state’s rich historical and cultural legacy.

    Governor Mutfwang’s administration is also committed to enhancing infrastructure that supports tourism. New roads, improved hospitality services, and the promotion of local cuisine contribute to a more welcoming environment for visitors. The development of eco-lodges and boutique hotels allows guests to immerse themselves in Plateau’s natural beauty while enjoying modern comforts. Community engagement is pivotal to the state’s restoration efforts. Local residents are actively involved in preserving their environment and cultural heritage through initiatives like tree planting and cultural education programs. This community-driven approach underscores the collective effort to rejuvenate Plateau State.

    Building on the momentum of beautifying and urbanizing the metropolis, Governor Mutfwang has embarked on a groundbreaking initiative to strategically advance the entire state like never before. Through decisive action, the Governor has spearheaded critical advancements in security and healthcare—two fundamental pillars essential for societal well-being and progress. Security, a top priority for this administration, has seen a significant boost with the distribution of essential equipment to security agencies. Over 100 motorcycles, raincoats, and rain boots have been provided to personnel across the state. This initiative highlights the administration’s proactive approach to tackling security challenges.

    Plateau State has faced intermittent terrorist attacks, particularly in rural areas where challenging terrain and limited access have impeded effective security operations. The recent provision of these resources represents more than just a logistical upgrade; it is a bold move towards bridging the security gap that has long threatened the state’s safety and stability. This intervention aims to enhance security surveillance, allowing farmers in rural communities to carry out their activities with greater safety and confidence.

    Governor Mutfwang’s initiative to equip security agencies with essential tools underscores his deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by rural communities. These areas, frequently targeted by security breaches, will now benefit from improved surveillance and faster response times. By directing security personnel to use these resources judiciously, the Governor emphasizes the administration’s commitment to ensuring that every investment in security translates into meaningful, tangible results.

    While bolstering the state’s security architecture remains a top priority, Governor Mutfwang has also made a strategic move to significantly enhance the health and wellness of the population through a robust healthcare system. Just last week, the Governor received a substantial donation of medical supplies valued at over $400,000 from international partners, marking a significant milestone for his administration. This notable contribution is the outcome of Governor Mutfwang’s effective diplomatic efforts with international organizations and foreign missions. It demonstrates the increasing confidence that global entities have in the state’s leadership and governance.

    The medical supplies received are more than a temporary fix; they lay the groundwork for Plateau State to become a prominent center for medical services and potentially medical tourism. Governor Mutfwang’s vision extends far beyond addressing immediate healthcare needs. His plans include establishing a medical faculty at Plateau State University and developing a state-of-the-art Teaching Hospital. These initiatives are part of a long-term strategy to elevate the state’s healthcare infrastructure and position Plateau State as a leader in medical excellence.

    These initiatives will not only enhance healthcare delivery within the state but also attract skilled medical professionals. The involvement of esteemed international organizations such as Widows and Orphans International USA, the US-Nigeria Law Group, and the Solomon and Mary Lar Foundation underscores the growing confidence in Governor Mutfwang’s leadership and governance.

    The seamless collaboration between these organizations and the state government reflects a well-coordinated effort to improve the standard of living for Plateau State’s residents. Governor Mutfwang’s strategic engagements have also positively impacted the state’s socio-economic landscape. Plateau State’s reputation as the “Home of Peace and Tourism”—a moniker earned through its pleasant climate and welcoming people—along with its rich agricultural, mineral, and human resources, has made it a sought-after destination for diverse populations.

    With the return of relative peace, Governor Mutfwang has taken decisive steps to reshape old narratives and attract crucial investments. Through a series of high-profile engagements, he has successfully forged significant partnerships to advance the state’s development agenda. Strategic collaborations with the Federal Government of Nigeria, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Chinese Embassy, and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) are poised to enhance Plateau State’s infrastructure, healthcare, economic growth, and security. These partnerships will play a pivotal role in driving the state’s comprehensive development strategy forward.

    One of Governor Mutfwang’s notable achievements is the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with the Federal Government to initiate services at the Federal Medical Centre, Wase, and the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Jos. Recently, he appeared before the National Assembly to support a bill for the establishment of the Federal University of Mining, which was sponsored by Senator Diket Plang representing Plateau Central. Governor Mutfwang urged the distinguished Senators to expedite the passage of the bill.

    This agreement, formalized in Abuja, highlights the Governor’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing affordable healthcare for Plateau State’s residents. Minister of State for Health, Dr. Tunji Alausa, praised Governor Mutfwang’s dedication to transforming the state’s healthcare system, recognizing the positive impact it will have not only on Plateau State but also on neighboring regions and the national healthcare infrastructure.

    This initiative is poised to significantly improve healthcare access, provide advanced training for health practitioners, and reduce drug costs, making healthcare more accessible and affordable for everyone. Deputy Speaker of the 9th House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Idris Wase, praised the Governor for fostering an environment conducive to the successful launch of these health centers. He noted that these centers are expected to generate employment opportunities and enhance health service delivery across the state.

    Additionally, Governor Mutfwang’s engagement with the UNDP underscores his administration’s commitment to both security and economic development. In discussions with UNDP Resident Representative Elsie Attafuah, the Governor sought support for establishing a sustainable security network, advancing agricultural value chains, and revitalizing the mining and tourism sectors. These efforts reflect a comprehensive strategy to foster long-term prosperity and stability for Plateau State.

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    Following mutually beneficial discussions, several key agreements were reached, including the convening of an Economic Summit and the establishment of the Gender and Equal Opportunity Commission. These initiatives aim to address gender-based violence and promote inclusive governance.

    The UNDP’s commitment to enhancing resilience across agriculture, the economy, and health sectors highlights the transformative potential of this partnership. It is geared towards creating sustainable economic models and tackling the root causes of poverty in Plateau State. Similarly, Governor Mutfwang’s visit to the Chinese Embassy in Abuja marked a pivotal moment for advancing Plateau State’s infrastructure. Conversations with Minister Counsellor Zhang Yi centered on key areas such as road infrastructure, healthcare, education, and agriculture, setting the stage for significant improvements in these vital sectors.

    Governor Mutfwang highlighted the favorable business environment in Plateau State, which has already attracted several Chinese construction companies. The Chinese government’s commitment to ongoing support reflects the robust bilateral relationship and a shared dedication to economic growth. This partnership is anticipated to significantly boost infrastructural development and generate new economic opportunities for the state. Additionally, to revitalize Plateau State’s industrial sector, Governor Mutfwang engaged with representatives from the International Finance Corporation (IFC). The discussions centered on attracting investments in key areas such as power, agriculture, tourism, and mining, aiming to drive sustainable economic development and enhance the state’s industrial capacity.

    Governor Mutfwang emphasized Plateau State’s attractive investment climate, including its favorable weather and supportive institutional framework. The International Finance Corporation’s interest in investing in Plateau State, alongside the formation of a technical team to develop a comprehensive investment framework, signals a bright future for the state. This collaboration is set to revitalize legacy projects started by the state’s founding fathers, boost revenue generation, and create new employment opportunities, all of which will drive Plateau State towards sustainable development.

    Plans are already in place to revitalize the renowned Hill Station Hotel, with the goal of boosting tourism, creating job opportunities for young people, and expanding the state’s revenue base. Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang’s diplomatic missions and strategic engagements are poised to usher in a new era of prosperity for Plateau State. By leveraging the state’s comparative advantages and fostering strong partnerships, his administration is set to transform Plateau into a renewed beacon of peace and tourism.

    Governor Mutfwang committed to providing credible, accountable, and transformative leadership, and he has consistently demonstrated these qualities through his actions and engagements. His mature leadership has inspired his cabinet members to deliver high-quality services, advancing good governance and driving the state’s economy towards progress and prosperity for all citizens.

    His resilience and determination to leave a lasting legacy have cultivated a culture of excellence, accountability, and transparency. This has resulted in enhanced public service delivery and an improved quality of life for the people of Plateau State. The combined efforts of these partnerships are poised to bring substantial advancements in healthcare, infrastructure, economic growth, and security. This will elevate the lives of Plateau State’s citizens and reinforce the state’s reputation as Nigeria’s “Home of Peace and Tourism.”

    It is incumbent upon all patriotic citizens of Plateau State to embrace and support the new leadership vision championed by Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang. By working together to foster a more efficient, effective, and responsive state, citizens can unite against insecurity and contribute to making Plateau a source of pride for Nigeria.

  • Mixed reactions trail increase in pump price of petrol

    Mixed reactions trail increase in pump price of petrol

    • Mixed reactions yesterday trailed the increase in the pump price of petrol, report Muyiwa Lucas, Simon Utebor, Bassey Anthony and Udeh Onyebuchi

    Price hike unavoidable, say stakeholders

    Industry experts have acknowledged that the petrol price hike is unavoidable.

     An oil and gas consultant, Henry Adigun explained that aligning market prices with international product prices is crucial for resolving the subsidy issue.

    He welcomed the Dangote Refinery’s commencement of petrol production but noted that its impact will depend on market conditions.

    National Publicity Secretary of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Ukadike Chinedu, highlighted the anticipated positive effect of Dangote Refinery on product availability.

    “I anticipate that Dangote will increase the supply of petrol and automatic gasoline oil in the Nigerian market,” Chinedu said.

    Dr. Ayodele Oni of Bloomfield Law Practice described the price increase as reflective of market realities but questioned whether it sufficiently covers costs and provides a margin. He called for a market-driven approach while cautioning that prices might not decrease significantly.

    NECA kicks

    The Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA) has condemned the new pump price of ₦897 per litre (in Abuja) . It called  the development  worrisome and unfair.

    NECA’s Director-General, Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, criticised the government for not leveraging the completion of the Dangote Refinery to reduce petrol prices.

    He argued that the new price exacerbates the financial burden on Nigerians and reflects inefficiencies within the NNPCL.

    Oyerinde urged the government to address the underlying issues and reconsider its approach to prevent  economic strain on businesses and individuals.

    “We advise that government should have a rethink and do all that is necessary to address the continuous impoverishment of Nigerians and incapacitation of organised businesses,” he stated.

    FCT motorists, commuters, others  express frustration

    The frustration is palpable  in the Federal Capital Territory(FCT). Motorists and commuters have been hit hard by the sudden price hike, which comes amid persistent fuel scarcity.

    A businessman, Alhaji Abdulaziz Isah expressed his dismay, saying: “The removal of the fuel subsidy with no proper plans in place has crippled the oil and gas sector and the economy at large. The dollar keeps rising, making it difficult for importers and marketers to buy petrol. If the government cannot implement a lasting policy, they should consider reinstating the subsidy, as citizens are suffering immensely.”

    The ripple effects of this price hike are evident in the daily struggles of civil servants like Mr. Aloze Ojo, who has been battling long queues at filling stations, often to no avail. “The hardship is unbearable,” Ojo lamented. “At times, I can’t even afford transportation to work, and feeding my family has become an even bigger challenge.”

    The situation is equally dire for commercial drivers. A taxi driver, Olusegun Ade, described the difficulties of balancing high fuel costs with affordable fares for passengers.

    “I’m running at a loss. I buy petrol at an exorbitant price, but if I increase fares, some passengers won’t be able to afford it. My family depends on my daily earnings, and with this latest increase, I don’t know how we’ll survive. I’m pleading with the president to act swiftly; the suffering is too much.´ Ade said.

    The crisis has also highlighted the urgent need for alternative energy sources. A retired civil servant, Mrs. Rita Uka, urged the government to expedite action on  its Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) project.

    “Over-reliance on PMS is making it a scarce and costly product. If CNG becomes widely available and affordable, it could help alleviate the pressure on PMS and stabilize the economy.” she said.

    Calabar struggling with scarcity, high price

     Residents of Calabar, the Cross River State capital are grappling with both the scarcity and high cost of petrol, with prices ranging between ₦880 and ₦950 per litre. The situation led to long queues at the few stations still selling fuel, with some motorists arriving as early as 3:00 a.m. to secure a spot.

    A motorist, Johnson Effiong, recounted his frustration at a station that received a fuel supply but failed to commence sales.

    “We saw petrol being discharged on Monday, so I came here at 3:00 a.m. to queue up, but they still haven’t started selling. The pump attendants are here, but we don’t know why they’re not dispensing the product. he said.

    The uncertainty and inconsistency in fuel availability have left many residents feeling helpless. Another motorist, Daniel Uwem voiced his concerns about the difficulty of obtaining petrol despite its high cost.

    “It’s hard to know what to complain about anymore. Even when stations have fuel, they only sell for a few hours before claiming the product is finished.” Uwem said.

    The scarcity has also taken a toll on commercial drivers. Mr. Matthew Archibong, a mini-bus driver, described the challenges he faces daily. “I spent several hours at a filling station along Murtala Muhammed Highway before the manager announced that they wouldn’t be selling fuel. I had to leave and queue up at another station, only to find that they were also not selling.

    ‘New petrol price may put marketers in debts’

    Independent petroleum marketers who paid for supply of the commodity  in June but are yet to be supplied,  yesterday  expressed regrets  with  the NNPCL’s decision to increase the pump price of petrol without consideration for their business interest, it was learnt yesterday.

    An independent marketer in Mushin, Lagos State, who pleaded anonymity, explained that “we independent marketers paid on NNPCL portal since June 3 and 4 for petrol supply when the portal was opened. After two weeks the portal was closed; about 3,000 marketers paid. What we paid for was 45, 000 litres of petrol each valued at N25, 042, 651. 25k. Majority of us that paid in June didn’t get petrol to lift, we were programmed to start lifting last month in bits.

    Read Also: Lagos task force apprehends six over illegal petrol sale

    “Now this is September and still majority of us have not been given our product and then this increase. NNPCL is now saying that we have to pay at the new rate which is about N11 million difference because at the new rate, a 45,000 petrol tanker will now cost over N36 million to lift.

    “A lot of marketers are now in a dilemma because of this development because we obtained loans from banks to run this business and the loans have accumulated interest over the months. The new price has now completely rubbished our investments made since June when we paid.

    “The government or NNPCL didn’t consider us at all. Previously, we used to buy this same quantity at N7m before May 2023, and it subsequently jumped to N25 million now its N36 million. How do they want us to survive? Government should instruct NNPCL to sell to us at the previous rate because we paid for the product at that rate and not being able to get our supplies at that time is not our fault.  We marketers are just trying to balance and now see the increase; government should be considerate and let us buy at the rate we paid for.

    “NNPCL does not reckon with us; they should have notified us before the increase or at least given us our product at the rate we paid for.

    ‘’NNPCL has not been fair to us because we are not credit marketers; we pay upfront and they use our money to trade. When there is petrol, instead of NNPCL trucking us, they give priority to the bridgers who takes the product up north, whose trucks have capacity for 50, 000 litres; they load them 1,000 trucks or more without loading us.

    “The price increase will mean that more marketers may not be in a position to continue trading because a lot of us are indebted already with mounting interests on loans. The only help they can give us now is that they should load us at the old rate, “ the source said.

    Uyo, Yenagoa residents lament

    Fuel prices in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital have skyrocketed to ₦970 per litre, with the NNPC mega station selling at ₦887 per litre.  Despite the lack of scarcity in the state, many filling stations remain closed.

    A commercial driver in Uyo, Aniekan Ukpongette spoke about his experience. He said he joined a queue at 4:18 a.m. yesterday  and  as of  3:00 pm he was still on the queue.

    “I’ve been here for hours, and I’m nowhere near the dispensing point. This situation is unbearable.” Ukpongette said.

    In Yenagoa, the capital of Bayelsa State, the fuel crisis has been ongoing even before the new price adjustment. Petrol has been selling for between ₦900 and ₦1,000 per litre at most filling stations, with black marketers taking advantage of the situation by selling at even higher rates.

    Our fears, by Lagos traders, commuters, others

    Lagos, the nation’s commercial nerve centre, was not  spared of  the fallout of the fuel price hike. The state has witnessed a surge in petrol prices, with some stations selling for over ₦850 per litre and others exceeding ₦1,100. This increase has sparked widespread concerns  among residents, who fear that the rising cost of fuel will escalate the cost of living.

    A  trader, Sarah Johnson expressed her fears about the impact of the price hike on the market.

    “This increase will drive up the cost of essential commodities that were just beginning to stabilise. Transportation costs will rise, making it more difficult for consumers to afford basic goods.” Johnson said.

    A commuter, Michael Oladipo echoed these concerns, noting that the higher fuel prices would likely lead to an increase in transportation fares and, consequently, the prices of goods and services.

    “This will only worsen the financial burden on families who are already struggling to make ends meet,” Oladipo said.

    A woman, Grace Eze lamented that the situation has also affected household budgets.

    “I noticed today that traders are already planning to raise their prices due to the fuel increase. My family relies on my spouse’s income alone, and this price hike will place additional strain on our budget.”

    A bus driver, James Obi suggested that the high prices might discourage hoarding and stabilise the supply chain.

    He said: The high price might eliminate long queues at fuel stations,” Obi suggested. “But it’s still a difficult situation for many of us.”

    Ebonyi residents reject increase

    Residents of Ebonyi have lamented the increasing price of petrol which they said is worsening the hardship in the country.

    They also lamented the hardship they face at NNPC fuel stations where it is sold at cheaper rates to get the product.

    A civil servant, Ikechukwu Eze good our reporter that he spent over four hours on queue at the station on one occasion which led to his reporting late to work.

    “I was queried for lateness by my boss all because I wanted to buy fuel at a cheaper rate. It is a mistake I am never going to make again. I will rather buy at higher rate at other filling stations or take public transport to work”, he said.

    A trader, Mr Odono Peter regretted that he was forced to spend hours at the queue which made him open his shop late in the afternoon.

    “My business suffered because I opened shop late around 12 noon because I was queueing up to but fuel.

    “Customers were calling me to come and sell to them but after waiting for sometime they bought form other sellers and left.”, he said.

    Be prepared  for  market price, PETROAN warns

    President of the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN), Billy Gilly-Harry has urged Nigerians to prepare for a higher price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in days to come, saying that prices would henceforth be sold at the current market prices.

    Gilly-Harry made this known  yesterday while speaking as a guest on Channels Television’s Morning Brief.

    According to him, current prices of petrol at around ₦600 per litre may no longer be possible, as the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited battles to keep the country wet with products.

    His stance comes as the NNPCL recently agreed to be in debt of over $60billion to PMS suppliers.

    Petrol currently sells for around ₦950 and above ₦1000 per litre in filling stations not owned by the NNPCL due to the scarcity.

    “We have been shouting that they (NNPC) have been selling products at ₦590 per litre. Who is bleeding? Somebody is bleeding and we need to tell what exactly is going on, we cannot play politics with everything.

    When asked whether Nigerians should prepare for a price hike, he said “For me, what I will say is to encourage Nigerians to buy petroleum products at the price that the market forces will determine. However, we are fully aware that fuel subsidies of different kinds of products across the world, and oil and gas are a natural blessing for Nigerians. And naturally, we are expecting a subsidy to be paid for that. And I will have to look at the advantages of subsidising just PMS when we have health challenges and other challenges.

    He also spoke on the NNPCL debt to oil suppliers.

    “It is a great effort by the NNPC to come out to say it is in debt. And this is what we have advised a very long time ago, that anything that needs to be done in this sector should be done transparently so that people don’t guess and get into panic.

    “For us as retail outlet owners, it is a situation that has given us a concern to also look inwards and see what dialogues can bring.

    “Three days ago now, there is information that we should look for other solutions out of the box.

    “So it is going to be a tough one. NNPCL is the only one that has access to expendable amounts of dollars to import PMS or any other product at this time, because they have a ready market, and they also earn in dollars, given that our refineries are yet to come on stream.

    “It definitely means that we have to think out of the box and become creative in certain ways that will help us to be able to serve Nigerians.

    “For my members, we have suffered a great deal. You see our filling stations across the country, but there is no business. So it is a concern for all of us but we all can think out of the box and come out with a solution to the crisis.

    “Recall that when the deregulation regime started in 2023, some members who had access to forex were also importing. And of course, the reason they stopped was because you cannot land products within the rate of $1 per litre, and try to sell it for 30/40n cents.

    “So there could be business arrangements with refineries and owners of trading companies that could also come to the rescue.

    “Nigerians are creative and I know a lot of Nigerians are already working. PETROAN is also putting together a couple of ideas that will aggregate funds, and see how that in itself can become a solution.

    “So yes, NNPC has the capacity, and incidentally we are here and we hope that we can hurriedly walk this road and get out of it. Yes, I agree that when information is given, it should be brutally honest so that we know exactly where we stand. PETROAN and other sister organisations with bigger capacities are also doing the same thing.

    “There are so many things that Nigerians can do exactly to get tradable dollars which we have left.”

  • Shaping health outcomes in Lagos through digital initiative

    Shaping health outcomes in Lagos through digital initiative

    The Lagos State Health Information Platform (SHIP), launched by the Lagos State Government and Interswitch, integrates data from diverse stakeholders to transform healthcare access and management. Associate Editor ADEKUNLE YUSUF reports that this innovative digital platform is designed to revolutionize healthcare access, enhance service coordination and delivery, and improve policy development and resource allocation across Lagos

    In a significant leap towards revolutionizing healthcare access and delivery, the Lagos State Government and Interswitch Group have recently unveiled the Lagos State Health Information Platform (Lagos SHIP). This groundbreaking digital healthcare initiative, officially launched through a concession agreement, represents a transformative step in providing seamless and unrestricted healthcare access for Lagos State residents. The unveiling of Lagos SHIP was marked by a stakeholders’ engagement forum designed to onboard key players in the health sector and showcase the platform’s innovative capabilities.

    Lagos SHIP is more than just a digital healthcare system; it is a visionary platform designed to bridge gaps between patients and healthcare providers through advanced technology. Leveraging Interswitch’s robust technological infrastructure, Lagos SHIP is set to revolutionize how healthcare services are accessed and managed across Lagos State. The platform promises to deliver a seamless and efficient healthcare experience, allowing residents to book appointments, pay for consultations, access medical records, and purchase medications with unprecedented ease.

    A vision for transformative healthcare

    During the stakeholders’ engagement forum, Prof. Akin Abayomi, Lagos State Commissioner for Health, articulated the transformative potential of Lagos SHIP. In his keynote address, Prof. Abayomi emphasised that the initiative is more than a technological advancement; it is a strategic move towards creating a data-driven healthcare ecosystem. He described Lagos SHIP as a game-changer that will enhance the experiences of all stakeholders in the healthcare sector and provide residents with unprecedented access to quality healthcare services. Prof. Abayomi’s vision for Lagos SHIP extends beyond mere technological implementation. He envisages a future where the platform facilitates better healthcare delivery through improved data management and connectivity. By integrating comprehensive health information, he said Lagos SHIP aims to create a unified system that supports seamless interactions between patients and healthcare providers, ensuring that critical medical information is always accessible.

    The Commissioner highlighted that Lagos SHIP aligns with the Lagos State Government’s broader health objectives, emphasizing the platform’s role in advancing healthcare innovation and improving patient outcomes. He noted that the initiative is a significant milestone in the journey towards achieving the state’s long-term healthcare goals, including enhancing service delivery, fostering greater collaboration among stakeholders, and improving overall health outcomes. Lagos SHIP is the result of a collaborative effort involving a diverse range of stakeholders. The platform brings together the Lagos State Government, Interswitch eClat, and various medical providers from both the public and private sectors. In addition to healthcare providers, the initiative engages health insurers, policymakers, economic planners, researchers, and the international community. This broad network of contributors underscores the collaborative nature of Lagos SHIP and its commitment to creating a comprehensive and inclusive healthcare solution.

    Read Also: No hunger protest in the North, says Uba Sani

    Prof. Abayomi highlighted that the state-owned General Hospitals alone have amassed 7 million contact records, in addition to data collected by Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs), tertiary health institutions, and private hospitals. He emphasised further that managing this extensive data requires a robust digital infrastructure to eliminate redundancy and errors in data collection. Abayomi also pointed out that the Strategic Health Information Platform (SHIP) would enable the government to effectively plan and coordinate health services at all levels. He explained, “Consolidating the data into one system allows us to analyze trends in the health-seeking behaviors of Lagosians. This is crucial for developing informed policies and directing resources where they are most needed. The platform will benefit not only patient care but also support policymakers in their decision-making processes.”

    The Commissioner revealed that the Lagos SHIP involves a diverse array of stakeholders and partners, including the Lagos State Government, eClat Interswitch, medical providers and practitioners from both the private and public sectors, health insurers and management organizations (HMOs), policymakers, economic planners responsible for resource allocation, researchers, the international community, digital service providers and innovators, as well as Lagos State residents and medical tourists from outside the region.

    During the signing of the Concession Agreement between the Office of Public-Private Partnership (PPP) and Digital Health Platform Limited, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu highlighted the significant impact of the Lagos State Health Information Platform (SHIP) on the state’s healthcare system. He emphasised that this digital system would eradicate the inefficiencies associated with manual data sharing and transmission, ensuring enhanced protection and privacy for patient information. Governor Sanwo-Olu described this initiative as a “transformational step” towards streamlining data collection and utilisation in the health sector. He underscored that the state government has taken a “bold move” by adopting advanced technology to drive more efficient healthcare delivery. The Governor noted that SHIP would not only facilitate better resource allocation but also empower decision-makers with the tools needed to analyse and assess the effectiveness of healthcare interventions.

    “We have seen global trend in using technology as a backbone to manage healthcare delivery and to assess changes in lifestyle of the population. We have seen the transformation the technology has brought to banking, transportation and education. Smart Health Information Platform is our own bold step to transform healthcare and ease the cumbersome data processing in our hospitals.

    “This transition has taken us about two years of building a robust platform that will secure and protect patients’ data. During this journey, we are able to identify the best partners that will deliver and help us realise our vision for the transformation of services in our hospitals. This is the beginning of full information technology reform in our healthcare system.”

    Governor Sanwo-Olu assured the public of the robust protection measures in place for the SHIP database, emphasising that there are no concerns regarding the privacy of the data collected through the platform. He underscored that data privacy was a cornerstone in the design and development of the digital system, with the Ministry of Science and Technology playing a crucial role in the project’s approval before its launch. “As we proceed with rolling out this technology, I am confident that Lagos State will reap the benefits of the decisions we are making today,” Governor Sanwo-Olu stated. He expressed optimism that the platform would significantly enhance access to healthcare, provide valuable insights into the health needs of the population, and inform more effective interventions within the sector.

    Dr. Wallace Ogufere, Managing Director of Interswitch eClat, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership during the forum. He underscored Interswitch’s role as a development partner dedicated to enhancing health outcomes in Lagos State. Dr. Ogufere highlighted the company’s commitment to leveraging its technological expertise to support the Lagos State Government’s developmental agenda. He envisions Lagos SHIP as a model for healthcare transformation, not just within Nigeria, but across the African continent and beyond. He emphasised that Lagos SHIP will enable the efficient management of electronic medical records, allowing for secure data sharing between public and private hospitals. This capability will improve experiences for healthcare administrators, medical professionals, and patients alike. By integrating advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning, and the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT), Lagos SHIP is poised to redefine how healthcare services are delivered, accessed and experienced.

    Technological advancements and platform features

    One of the most compelling aspects of Lagos SHIP is its technological infrastructure, which is designed to support a range of functionalities that enhance patient and provider interactions. Mr. Olufemi Olapegba, Managing Director of Digital Health Platform at Interswitch, provided detailed insights into the platform’s features during the forum. Lagos SHIP includes several key services that are integral to its operation. The Patient Demography Service is a foundational feature that uniquely identifies and indexes every patient presenting at health facilities. This service ensures continuity of care by maintaining a comprehensive record of each patient’s medical history, allowing healthcare providers to track patients as they move across different providers and locations.

    Another crucial component of Lagos SHIP is the Summary Care Records API, which facilitates the exchange of clinical data. This feature ensures that essential medical information is readily accessible to healthcare providers, supporting continuity of care and enabling informed decision-making. The platform also includes an e-Prescription Service, which allows patients to receive prescriptions and obtain medications from various locations. This feature is particularly valuable for patients who may need to visit different facilities for their healthcare needs. Mr. Olapegba highlighted that these features are designed to improve patient engagement, streamline healthcare operations, and foster better collaboration between providers and patients. By providing a comprehensive digital health ecosystem, Lagos SHIP aims to enhance the overall efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare delivery in Lagos State.

    The Lagos SHIP Engagement Forum was not just a platform for showcasing the new system; it was also an opportunity to address key challenges in the healthcare sector. Dr. (Mrs.) Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, highlighted the platform’s potential to address critical issues such as data management and operational efficiency. She emphasised that Lagos SHIP will enhance healthcare delivery by improving data management, streamlining operations, and fostering greater collaboration between healthcare providers and government agencies. Dr. Ogunyemi pointed out that the platform’s advanced technology will enable better management and utilization of health information. This capability will support policy development, research, and emergency management, leading to more informed decision-making and improved health outcomes. She stressed that Lagos SHIP is set to play a pivotal role in addressing the challenges facing the health sector and enhancing the overall quality of care.

    Dr. Olusegun Ogboye, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Health, also contributed to the discussion by focusing on SHIP’s patient-centered approach. He explained that the platform is designed to provide more individualized care, reducing errors and improving diagnoses. Dr. Ogboye noted that Lagos SHIP would help mitigate the “Japa Syndrome”—a term used to describe the migration of healthcare professionals—by creating a more supportive and rewarding work environment for healthcare workers. This, in turn, will enhance job satisfaction and encourage professional development.

    Dr. Ogboye highlighted that SHIP’s design will empower healthcare professionals to perform at their best, leading to better patient outcomes. He emphasized that the platform’s focus on individual patient care will improve the quality of interactions between patients and healthcare providers. Dr. Ogboye also noted that SHIP will contribute to achieving the state’s long-term healthcare objectives, aligning with the Governor’s THEMES Plus Agenda. He emphasized that the platform will facilitate faster and more efficient contact during health crises, improve data analytics, and enhance decision-making processes within the healthcare sector.

    The launch of Lagos SHIP represents a significant milestone in the evolution of healthcare in Lagos State. The platform is set to redefine healthcare delivery and access, creating a new benchmark for digital healthcare solutions. The initiative underscores Interswitch’s commitment to driving positive change and enhancing healthcare delivery across Lagos State and beyond. As Lagos SHIP prepares for its full-scale rollout, it promises to bring about a profound transformation in how healthcare services are provided and experienced. The platform’s integration of advanced technologies and its collaborative approach to healthcare innovation will play a crucial role in shaping the future of healthcare in Lagos.

  • Oil and gas operators are carting away the profits, leaving Nigerians with pains

    Oil and gas operators are carting away the profits, leaving Nigerians with pains

    With persistent fuel scarcity, Nigeria’s oil and gas sector stands at a critical crossroads, grappling with persistent challenges that demand immediate and decisive action. Despite the significant financial strain caused by importing fuel, previous administrations have failed to revitalize the nation’s refineries, leaving a gaping hole in our energy strategy. The Bola Tinubu administration faces an urgent task: to end the cycle of dependency on fuel imports and implement the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) effectively. With NNPCL’s repeated delays in refinery operations and the need for a level playing field, Group Business Editor SIMEON EBULU writes that it is time for a bold, unwavering approach to address these systemic issues and drive meaningful reform

    The sun beats down relentlessly on the bustling streets of Lagos, but it’s more than the heat that’s fuelling the rising tempers. Once again, a familiar and dreaded crisis has gripped the city: petrol scarcity. In a nation where fuel powers the rhythm of daily life, this shortage is far more than an inconvenience—it’s a catastrophe. At a petrol station in Ikeja, a snaking queue of vehicles stretches for miles, winding through the streets and bringing traffic to a standstill. Bleary-eyed drivers, exhausted from hours of waiting, lean on their horns in frustration, but the oppressive heat and thick air of desperation swallow their sounds.

    Among the many stranded was Adebayo, a middle-aged taxi driver and father of four. His livelihood depended on the fuel that powered his taxi, and without it, his family’s already precarious existence was at risk. “I’ve been here since 3:00 AM,” Adebayo said, wiping sweat from his brow. “There’s no guarantee I’ll get fuel today. If I don’t, I don’t know how I’ll put food on the table tonight.” The scarcity had driven up prices at the black market, where fuel was sold at exorbitant rates by opportunistic dealers. But for Adebayo, whose earnings barely covered his daily expenses, the black market was not an option. “I can’t afford their prices,” he lamented. “If I buy from them, I’ll lose money with every passenger I carry. But what choice do I have?”

    Across town in Surulere, Nneka, a young office worker, stood at the bus stop, anxiously checking the time. It was already 7:30 AM, and there was no sign of the usual danfo buses that ferried people to their destinations. The few buses that did appear were already packed to the brim, with desperate commuters hanging from the doors, clutching onto any available surface for dear life. Nneka had been waiting for over an hour, but each passing minute brought her closer to being late for work—a prospect that could cost her the job she had worked so hard to secure. “My boss doesn’t care about the petrol scarcity,” she said, her voice tinged with worry. “If I’m late, I’m late. I can’t afford to lose this job, but how can I get there on time if there’s no transport?”

    The situation was the same in other parts of the city. In Yaba, commuters stood in long lines at bus stops, hoping for a miracle. The scarcity had doubled the usual fare, and many who couldn’t afford the hike were left stranded, helplessly watching as buses passed them by. Even those who managed to squeeze into a bus faced the risk of delays as the vehicles crawled through traffic jams exacerbated by the endless queues at petrol stations.

    While commuters struggled to reach their destinations, businesses across Nigeria were feeling the pinch of the petrol scarcity. In the bustling Balogun Market, one of the largest in Lagos, traders who relied on generators to power their stalls were facing an unprecedented challenge. With the scarcity driving up the price of petrol, the cost of running a generator had become prohibitive. Chinwe, a fabric trader in the market, expressed her frustration as she watched customers walk away from her dimly lit stall. “I usually sell a lot by this time of day,” she said, “but without light, people don’t want to come in. My generator has been off for two days now because I can’t afford the fuel. If this continues, I’ll lose everything.”

    The impact of the scarcity extended beyond the market stalls. Small businesses that depended on deliveries were struggling to keep up with demand. Delivery trucks sat idle as their drivers searched in vain for petrol, leaving perishable goods to spoil and orders unfulfilled. For many, the crisis threatened not just profits, but the very survival of their businesses. The petrol scarcity is not just a problem for Lagos; it is a national crisis. In cities across Nigeria, the story is the same—long queues, inflated prices, and a populace pushed to the brink of despair. The ripple effects are felt in every sector, from transportation and commerce to education and healthcare.

    Why federal government should take a decisive action

    Serious concerns are mounting over the ongoing scarcity of petroleum products in the country, exacerbated by allegations of adulterated fuel being sold at some retail outlets. Nigerians from all walks of life—manufacturers, professionals, artisans, and operators in the petroleum and gas sectors, to name a few—are increasingly worried that, unless the Federal Government takes decisive action to address the troubling developments in the administration of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, the repercussions could be severe, not only for the economy but for the overall wellbeing of the citizenry.

    These concerns are heightened by recent developments in the industry. A significant issue currently facing the sector involves allegations made by Dangote Refinery, accusing those in charge of the nation’s oil and gas industry of favouring the importation of petroleum products over ensuring the functionality of local refineries. The company also claims that certain key officials within the NNPC are implicated in owning a refinery in Malta, from where they have been importing substandard products into Nigeria.

    As expected, those implicated in the allegations quickly issued denials. Not only did they absolve themselves of any wrongdoing, but they also challenged anyone with evidence to come forward. The Group Managing Director of NNPCL, Mele Kyari, and the Managing Director of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, Farouk Ahmed, both denied any involvement, daring anyone to prove that they own a refinery abroad.

    However, the controversy did not end there. Just days later, another allegation emerged, once again stirring the waters of the nation’s oil industry. This time, Oando, a major player in the sector, was implicated. The company swiftly denied the accusation, issuing statements to both the Nigerian Stock Exchange in Lagos and the Johannesburg Stock Exchange in South Africa, where it is listed, asserting that it had no involvement with the alleged refinery in Malta. This denial seemed to put the matter to rest—until last Friday, when The Cable reported that Matrix Energy, an oil retail outlet, was the actual importer of petroleum products from Malta. This revelation reignited the debate, bringing the issue back into the spotlight. While Matrix Energy acknowledged its involvement in the importation of petroleum products, the company maintained that the products it imported were not adulterated.

    Matrix Energy Group

    At the helm of Matrix Energy Group is Abdulkabir Aliu, who serves as the Group Managing Director and is also a member of the Presidential Economic Coordination Council. The leadership team at Matrix Energy includes notable figures such as Luqman Salam-Alada, Executive Director of Downstream; Aisha Said-Aliu, Group Head of Business Development and Strategy; Oluwatoyin Showunmi, Executive Director of Retail; Olabisi Sogunro, Group Head of Support Services; and Olajide Aogo, Managing Director of the group’s fertilizer arm.

     When Aliu appeared before the Senate Committee, which was established to investigate the allegations of importing adulterated or substandard petroleum products, he addressed the concerns directly. Aliu stated: “Matrix in Nigeria has over 2700 staff and we have invested in the country because we believe in this country. We’re being accused of bringing products from Russia and some other countries. It’s strange to me as we are not aware that Nigeria has banned, or stopped importation of products from some countries. The most important thing to us and every government is to make goods and products available to the people at affordable price.”

    The Chief Executive Officer of Matrix Energy Group, Aliu, is reportedly well-connected within the corridors of power, particularly with the management of NNPCL and its subsidiaries. Sources indicate that Aliu’s relationship with the NNPCL dates back to the first term of the Buhari administration, long before the current government took office. Investigations have revealed that Matrix Energy played a pivotal role during a financially challenging period for the NNPCL. At a critical time, the company reportedly provided financial assistance to NNPCL, helping to stabilise its operations. In return, Matrix Energy was allocated crude oil cargoes, which it exported for refining abroad and then re-imported into Nigeria as refined products. This arrangement not only solidified the company’s standing in the industry but also deepened its ties with NNPCL.

    To further corroborate the close relationship between Matrix Energy Group and NNPCL, a source, who requested anonymity, explained, “I’ll keep it brief, but there’s a lot to unpack. Since the year 2000, Nigeria’s subsidy burden had already started to strain the economy and NNPC’s balance sheet, significantly increasing their debt liabilities.” The source continued, explaining that in 2005, NNPC made a strategic decision to mortgage oil production from OML 119, specifically 20,000 barrels per day, as a means of debt repayment. OML 119 is an offshore asset comprising the Okono and Okpoho fields and is particularly significant because it is one of the eight Oil Mining Leases (OMLs) where NNPC holds 100% equity.

    According to the source, from 2005 to the present, the revenue generated from OML 119 has not been remitted to the Federation Account. Instead, it has been used to offset various debts, including subsidy payments by the NNPC. This diversion of funds further highlights the intricate and long-standing financial manoeuvres that have tied Matrix Energy Group and NNPCL together.

    By 2012, NNPC’s debt had escalated to $8.5 billion. To address this substantial liability, $5 billion, which represented dividends from Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG), was used as part payment towards the debt. The remaining $3.5 billion was secured against the daily production of 20,000 barrels from OML 119. This arrangement was structured under special purpose vehicles (SPVs) named PXF1 and PXF2. PXF1 was designated for a five-year term, while PXF2 was set for a seven-year term, extending the repayment period for this portion of the debt.

    “In 2020, at the height of COVID 19, Nigeria had shortfall of revenue, NNPC had to make a pre-payment plan of $1.5 billion with Matrix and Vitol. Repayment was going to be from daily production of 30,000 barrels of crude oil from another OML in which NNPC has 100 % equity, and it will run for 5 years under an SPV called Project Eagle

    “The daily 30,000 barrels of crude oil given to Matrix and Vitol for their “loan” of $1.5 billion during Covid-19, is what is taken to Malta , refined/blended ( to be cheaper ) and sold to Nigerians. By the end of 2024, the 12-year deal to repay $3.5 billion will end. By the end of 2025, the 5-year deal to repay Matrix and Vitol their $1.5 billion will also end. That is all I have to say,” the source said.

    An investigation by The Nation revealed that other operators in the oil and gas sector have taken a keen interest in Matrix Energy Group due to its “unusual rise” in the industry. Despite not being a particularly large firm, Matrix Energy’s rapid expansion has drawn attention for its deviation from typical growth patterns in the sector. According to one industry insider, the company’s remarkable progress and staggering volumes of activity have raised eyebrows. In July 2024 alone, Matrix Energy received approximately 25 per cent of Nigeria’s monthly petrol consumption into its storage facility. This figure is notably striking, especially considering that the company operates fewer than 160 filling stations nationwide. To industry players, such a significant share of the national fuel supply, coupled with relatively modest retail infrastructure, is highly unusual and has fuelled speculation about the company’s rapid ascent.

    In the first week of August, Matrix Energy Group was reported to have discharged a petroleum product-laden vessel at a facility owned by Pinnacle Oil and Gas in the Lagos Free Zone. The vessel in question, MT ROMEOS, had its load port clearly identified as OPL MALTA. While the client for the petroleum products was listed as NNPC Retail, it is widely recognized that Matrix Energy Group, as one of NNPCL’s trading partners, likely conducted the operation on behalf of its client. This arrangement underscores the intricate connections and operational dynamics within the sector.

    UPSTREAM ACTIVITIES AND THE NNPC CONNECTION

    • About 4 crude cargoes per month are allocated to Matrix Energy by NNPC (Tables)

    The crude allocations to Matrix are traded by Gulf Transport & Trading (GTT), a trading company registered in the UAE

    •Two of the three crude cargoes of the recently launched Utapate grade were allocated to GTT.

    The crude cargoes are typically sold at a $3 per barrel premium which translates to $3 million per cargo .  This implies a  profit of almost $150million per year or N240 billion at the prevailing #1590/$

    • They also have three marginal fields prospecting licences as listed on their website

    DOWNSTREAM ACTIVITIES AND THE RUSSIA/MALTA CONNECTION

    • Matrix Energy is also active in the downstream sector. They own a 150 million litre capacity depot in Warri (Bluefin Depot), three old ships (Matrix Pride, Matrix Triumph, Matrix S.ILU), and about 500 trucks

    • They are very active in the import of Russian products through various blending locations.

    • Import of low-grade fuel from Russia

    • Import of petroleum products from Malta

      As previously noted, in July alone, approximately 25% of Nigeria’s monthly PMS consumption was allocated to Matrix Energy Group, a relatively small player in the industry.

    Our position, by Matrix Energy

    Amid the ongoing revelations, the company has issued a statement distancing itself from any involvement in the importation of adulterated fuel. The statement reads: “Our attention has been drawn to a recent online publication where our name was mentioned. While we might have preferred to overlook the fabrications in the publication, we feel compelled to correct the record and distinguish fact from sensationalism. It is crucial for us to address this matter to protect and uphold the integrity of our brand and the reputation we have diligently built over the past 20 years.”

    In a statement signed by Ibrahim Akinola, Head of Communications at Matrix Energy Group, the company emphasised its commitment to compliance with approved specifications for imported products. Akinola stated, “Matrix Energy Group remains steadfast in adhering to the rigorous standards required for imported products. We have consistently ensured that our products meet all approved specifications and have never been found wanting in this regard.”

    Akinola said: “Our company is recognised and approved by global international companies, national oil companies, major construction firms, and various end-users. “Our consistent ability to deliver on all contracts at competitive prices has solidified our strong position in the industry today,” adding that the Chief Executive Officer of the company, Abdulkabir Adisa Aliu, is a member of President Tinubu’s Economic Coordination Council.

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    The statement noted that Aliu’s selection by Mr President to serve as a member of the Economic Coordination Council is a recognition of his dedication to shared values and his commitment to the betterment of Nigeria in the Renewed Hope Agenda, for which he remains deeply grateful. Matrix Energy Group, Akinola said, “is a wholly indigenous and independent oil marketing and trading company, with substantial investments in strategic infrastructure, including vessels, oil and gas terminals, trucks, and retail outlets across 28 states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).”

    He added: “Our company is recognised and approved by global international companies, national oil companies, major construction firms, and various end-users. Our consistent ability to deliver on all contracts at competitive prices has solidified our strong position in the industry today.”

    Why Fed Govt should act

    At this critical juncture, the challenges plaguing Nigeria’s oil and gas sector must be addressed with unwavering seriousness and resolve. The refineries need to be operational, and our dependence on fuel imports must come to an end. The bulk of our precious foreign exchange is spent on importing fuel, which is unsustainable. Previous administrations have failed to fix the four refineries with a combined capacity of 420,000 barrels of crude oil. The Tinubu administration must break from this pattern and make a tangible difference. NNPCL must step up its efforts; it has repeatedly postponed the resumption of production at the Port Harcourt refinery since May of last year.

    The Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) must be fully implemented. The government has stated that crude should be allocated to local refineries with payments made in Naira. It is time for the government to enforce this directive firmly and ensure a level playing field for all stakeholders. The era of untouchable figures and sacred cows must end. The focus should be on fixing the sector decisively, not on shifting blame. The time for action is now. Enough of the blame game.

  • Stolen crude, artisanal refineries choke Niger Delta

    Stolen crude, artisanal refineries choke Niger Delta

    • How parallel market bleeds Nigeria’s oil wealth

    • The human toll of policy failure

    The earth pulsed in January through the tangled woods of Kom-Kom, Oyibo, revealing secrets long buried beneath the canopy of green.

    It revealed a malaise festering where the forest entwined the flow of stolen wealth: five million litres of crude oil siphoned from Nigeria’s native depths.

    Major-General Jamaal Abdussalam, Commander of the Nigerian Army’s 6th Division, stood like a sentinel, his gaze hard as granite  as he surveyed the expanse at the dawn of January 2024. Before him lay an illicit refinery: five million litres of stolen crude pooled like a forbidden treasure hoarded by oil thieves. Soon, after he laid siege to the illegal oil refinery, the world learned of the pillage in Kom-Kom, Oyibo.

    In another crime-busting episode, this time Thursday, August 8, 2024, Major-General Abdussalam’s battalion struck again, sweeping through Bayelsa, Delta, and Rivers States, seizing 238,500 litres of stolen crude. In Bayelsa, along the serpentine curves of Dasaba Creek, an oven of pillage and a massive metal reservoir yielded 110,000 litres more. Five men were arrested at the illicit refinery. The division’s spokesman, Lt.-Col. Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, confirmed their arrest, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, adding that crude oil was seized from trucks and illegal refining sites in the three states during a sting operation.

    Yet, even this great haul was nothing but a trickle in the tempest of oil theft that plagues the region. From Rivers to Bayelsa, Delta to Abia, the veins of Nigeria’s economic lifeblood are being tapped to feed the ever-growing maw of clandestine economies.

    Illegal refineries, like drums of sabotage, has cost the country a lot of fortune. No thanks to the activities of thieves aka oil bunkerers.

    They burn the crude oil in crude cauldrons, releasing tendrils of dark smoke that curl to the sky. This is no refined process; no proper distillation to separate oil from poison. There is no devotion to the meticulous art of refinement that removes sulphur and other impurities. It is a crude extraction that leaves behind a trail of soot, ash, and sickness.

    Where the skyline swaddle in soot

    In Port Harcourt, the air grows heavy with the fumes from surreptitious refineries. The skies go dark, enshrouded in a haze so thick that the sun struggles to pierce through at dawn. In Trans Amadi, some 20 kilometers from the city centre, black soot settles on everything—rooftops, car hoods, and kitchen countertops. Amid the bleakness, Richard Otibe sticks his finger through the nozzle of his tea kettle, every morning, and watches in dismay as it retracts in a cloud of soot. But this is not just dirt. It is death in the air.

    It is the consequence of years of crude oil theft and artisanal refining, the affliction of Bayelsa, Delta and Rivers States, an illicit industry that leaves devastation in its wake, poisoning the atmosphere, corroding the lives of people like 41-year-old Richard and his late son, Richard Jr., who succumbed to liver cancer at the tender age of seven.

    The story of Richard Jr. is not an isolated tragedy. It is a brutal reflection of the reality faced by many across the oil-rich Niger Delta, where polluted air, damaged agro-economies, and wrecked finances are all part of the price paid for Nigeria’s stolen wealth.

    Poison in the air

    In Gbarain, Bayelsa, Richard Jr. lived with his maternal grandmother, Esther, until she passed away in 2020. He was only three years old when his mother died in a tragic accident, forcing his father, a struggling menial labourer in Port Harcourt, to send him to live with his grandma. It was a rural community, tucked deep in the oil-polluted swamps, where illegal refining sites dotted the landscape, spewing toxins into the air. The soot particles that coated everything also filtered into little Richard’s lungs.

    “His grandma and I often dismissed his persistent coughs, bouts of fever and fatigue as nothing more than common ailments,” said Otibe. But little did they recognise the danger lurking within and around the little boy. Even though Grandma Esther’s village was enveloped in a cloud of smoke from crude oil bunkering. But when Esther died, and Richard Jr. was sent to live with his father in the soot-covered suburb of Trans Amadi, the symptoms became too glaring to ignore. He wheezed as he breathed, his skin turned yellow, and his tiny body grew weaker each day. But it was too late for Richard Sr. (Otibe) to afford proper care for Richard Jnr. By the time doctors diagnosed him with liver cancer, all they could offer was palliative care and prayers.

    On a hot, foggy afternoon, as soot drifted down from the skies like a deadly mist, Richard Jr. took his final breath. The little boy who had once run through the polluted streets of Gbarain was gone.

    For those in host communities like Gbarain and Trans Amadi, the impact is immediate and often severe. Farmlands are contaminated with oil spills, rivers are polluted, and the air is thick with toxic fumes. These once-thriving agro-economies, where fishing and farming sustained generations, are now barren wastelands. The people are left with little choice but to engage in the very activities that are killing them: stealing crude, refining it in makeshift refineries, and selling the dirty fuel to survive.

    Viscous fuels and unintended consequences

    But the fuel itself is a time bomb. Vehicles that run on it often break down, engines damaged beyond repair. Timothy Ojo knows this all too well. A commercial driver in Port Harcourt, Ojo, 38, persistently used dirty fuel for his Kia Rio – a gift from his Canada based stepbrother – because it was all he could afford. However, the car’s mechanics was too fragile for the fuel’s impurities. The engine eventually packed up as abrasive contaminants in the fuel wore down and damaged the fuel pump, causing it to fail prematurely. Expert opinion revealed that impurities in the fuel contributed to the buildup of deposits on critical engine components like fuel injectors, valves, and pistons. This reduced engine efficiency and performance over time, said Ojo.

    When his car engine eventually knocked, it was the beginning of a downward spiral. Without his vehicle, he could no longer work, and without work, he couldn’t feed his family. His wife, Mary, grew increasingly frustrated as their five-year-old daughter, Rachael, weakened from the ravage of sickle cell anemia, a lack of proper nutrition and medical care. When Rachael finally succumbed to the disease, Mary left with their other daughter, relocating to her hometown in Cotonou, leaving Ojo devastated and alone.

    The knock-on effects of this dirty fuel are equally felt across the economy as they translate to operational setbacks and lost revenue. Commercial drivers, logistics companies, and even corporate fleets all suffer as vehicles break down more frequently, requiring expensive repairs or replacements.

    For individual families, like the Ojos, they translate to financial ruin and other ripple effects like marital squabbles, impoverishment and the death of a beloved daughter.

    Sulphur: The devil in the details

    The soot that blankets Port Harcourt and other parts of the Delta, is more than just a visual blight; it is a complex cocktail of poison that permeates every crevice of life. At the heart of this noxious mix are the hydrocarbons, the very essence of oil that, when burned without care, transforms into particles that are as deadly as they are invisible.

    The hydrocarbon chains that emerge from the artisanal refineries are malformed, twisted by the lack of proper refining processes. These longer chains increase the viscosity of the fuels, turning them into a thick, oily sludge that engines struggle to burn cleanly. This incomplete combustion creates particulate matter that lodges deep within the lungs, triggering a cascade of health problems that stretch from asthma to cancer, according to Isaac Kale, a medical doctor and pulmonologist with a public health facility.

    But it is the sulphur that is the true villain of this tale. In both official and unofficial fuels, sulphur concentrations soar far beyond the limits set by any civilised standard.

    In Port Harcourt, a 2022 SDN study peg the levels of sulphur at 204 times higher than those allowed by the European Union. This sulphuric overload is a key player in the creation of smog, the visible soot that hangs over the city like a death mask.

    Sulphur oxides, born of this fuel, dance with particulate matter in a lethal waltz, forming the dense black clouds that have become synonymous with Port Harcourt. Thus, every breath drawn in the city carries with it the potential for harm, as sulphur oxides and particulate matter invade the body with every inhalation, leading to respiratory disease, cancers, and shortened lives.

    Further analysis of fuel samples from official and unofficial sources revealed hazardous levels of sulphur and other toxins in petrol, diesel, and kerosene consumed daily in key locations across Nigeria, including Rivers, Bayelsa, and Lagos States.

    The average sulphur content in petrol samples was found to be over seven times the legal limit, while diesel samples averaged sulphur levels more than 43 times the permitted threshold. These findings pointed to a systemic failure in Nigeria’s fuel import system, where substandard fuels were regularly being distributed nationwide. The presence of high levels of sulphur and other harmful chemicals like methanol raised grave concerns about the health implications for Nigerians, particularly in regions like the Niger Delta, where air pollution and soot were already significant issues.

    Regulatory gaps are being exploited by both international commodity traders and local petroleum marketers, who continue to flood the Nigerian market with low-quality fuels that would be rejected in better regulated economies.

    The situation ultimately underscores the urgent need for more stringent fuel standards and robust regulatory enforcement to protect both public health and Nigeria’s environment, said Ohis Elere, a pulmonologist and medical lab operator.

    One of the most striking statistics from the SDN study, for instance, was that poor air quality, exacerbated by the high levels of sulphur and other toxins in the fuel, had led to a reduction in life expectancy by an average of 4.7 years in the Niger Delta region.

    The research also linked the high sulphur content in fuels to the increasing prevalence of respiratory diseases and cardiovascular issues among the population. Prolonged exposure to such pollutants, particularly particulate matter (PM2.5) from sulphur, was known to contribute to asthma, bronchitis, lung cancer, and heart disease, disproportionately affecting vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.

    Residents report health problems that could be attributed to atmospheric conditions. A 2017 study revealed that respiratory health issues among under-five kids jumped by nearly 20% between 2016 and 2017 as local doctors disclose that they more patients report with soot-related respiratory health issues.

    Faces behind the tragedy

    At the heart of this tragedy are people like Godwin Obanor, a crude oil merchant who operates across Bayelsa and Delta States. Obanor is a Camp Manager and middleman for powerful oil barons who finance his operations, turning a blind eye to the destruction they cause. His is a world of danger and deceit, where profits come before people, and the land they exploit is left ravaged.

    Left to Obanor, he is engaged in an honest hustle as long as he “doesn’t break down doors and point gun to rob anyone,” he said. “If the government keeps neglecting to provide essential fuel supplies like kerosene and petrol to the creeks, her argued, people will keep taking what they need by force, including vandalising pipelines.

    “Our communities are struggling, and these resources are vital for cooking, transportation, and basic survival. We’ve waited long enough for empty promises, and if the state won’t fulfill its duty, the people will seize control of their own future, regardless of the consequences,” he said.

    Obanor continued: “All these oil companies and government will call us thieves. What are we stealing? How can you say we are stealing what belongs to us? Oil belongs to the indigenous people of the Niger Delta. And nobody can deny us access to it. Nobody can deny us our right.”

    Eleven years ago, The Nation first encountered Isichei Adaka, a spirited 14-year-old brimming with life and an almost infectious enthusiasm for a life of crime. Adaka was then a high school dropout, yearning to become a trusted aide to Movado, an oil thief and operator of an illegal artisanal refinery. Today, at 25, Adaka looks like a man in his late 40s. Orphaned and without anyone to pay his school fees, he dropped out of school to work with an illicit fuel refiner, Movado, in Ekpan, Warri South Local Government Area. Adaka grew from an “Executive Assistant,” who bought food, washed cars, and purchased cigarettes and liquor for Movado, earning N1,500 daily.

    Adaka idolised Movado, dreaming of the day he could join the ranks of his trusted goons and oil tappers. His youthful exuberance and dreams of wealth have long faded. Today, Adaka’s face tells a different story. His deep facial scars, blackened teeth, and burn marks are physical reminders of a life imperiled through stints on numerous illicit refineries. Speaking with regret, the once ambitious teenager stated, “When I have my kids, I won’t raise kids in this place. My children won’t live in Ekpan. Maybe be Abuja or Lagos. But not Ekpan. Not Warri. They won’t suffer what I suffered,” he said.

    Adaka’s story is markedly different from the others but it projects the familiar telltale of a promising life severely hampered by institutional failures. Adaka condemned Nigeria’s insensitivity to their plight and the country’s desperation to plunder Niger Delta’s oil wealth for free. Like several peers in the Niger Delta, he nurses an entitled disposition to exploit the oil buried beneath his birthplace.

    Consequently, the region has seen hundreds of artisanal refineries springing up like poison flowers amidst the green. These refineries, crude in design but efficient in their purpose, have established themselves alongside the formal oil industry. In this parallel economy, oil offers a pathway to survival and instant wealth.

    Several youths like Adakar and Obanor stand as sentinels watching over hundreds of artisanal refineries scattered across the Niger Delta. From the plundered tracts, vandals have learned to navigate the arteries of the formal oil sector, tapping into pipelines and siphoning off crude to fuel their makeshift refineries. Consequently, the shadow industry flourishes, with stolen crude feeding an underground economy that spans local markets and reaches into the global oil trade.

    In the oil-rich creeks, flames flicker in the night from the illegal refineries that dot the landscape. These artisanal operations, while rudimentary, represent a sophisticated network of economic subversion. The crude oil siphoned from pipelines never sees the inside of a legitimate refinery; instead, it is processed in makeshift camps and sold in the shadow markets, far from the reach of government oversight.

    These operations siphon billions of dollars from Nigeria’s oil revenues, annually, turning what should be national wealth into black market gold.

    Economics of artisanal refining

    The production model of artisanal refineries relies on theft; stolen crude is free, thus every drop is profitable. For the thousands of youths who find themselves entangled in this underground industry, the lure of quick returns is too powerful to resist.

    Ebiere Owei, an illicit oil refiner in Adobi Akwa swamp, Etche LGA, Rivers State, argued that life would be an ordeal without a recourse to the provisioning of artisanal refineries. “I know the risks, but when you’re pushed into a corner, you do what you have to. It’s not the life I imagined, but it’s the life I have to live right now,” he said.

    For those who operate in this underworld, the equation is simple: what is stolen is free. Estimates suggest that as much as 75 percent of stolen oil now remains within Nigeria, feeding an insatiable domestic market for refined products. The official oil sector, meanwhile, sees its exports dwindle, as the shadow economy flourishes on the back of what is taken in the dead of night.

    Artisanal refining is no longer just a fringe operation. As official oil prices fluctuate and subsidies are stripped away, the camps producing illicit fuels see profits soar. In Bayelsa and Rivers, these camps have nearly tripled their profitability over recent years, while distributors who move the stolen fuel have also seen their fortunes rise. The result is an economy of scale that rivals formal oil production, with a network of tappers, refiners, and distributors creating a complex supply chain that feeds into both local and international markets.

    In a twist of irony, the fuel returned to Nigeria’s shores from abroad are often far more toxic than the crude that left them. The scandal of February 2022, where a consignment of petrol laced with methanol wreaked havoc on vehicles across the nation, is but one symptom of a deeper malaise.

    Yet, the economics are as murky as the oil that flows through the pipelines. For those with the means to invest, artisanal refining offers high returns, a rare opportunity in a region where formal employment is scarce. Camps are set up with the help of investors—security agents, political aspirants, and local power brokers—who provide the capital needed to establish refineries. Once operational, the refineries churn out fuel that finds its way into legitimate markets, blending seamlessly with official supplies, making it nearly impossible to trace the origins of the product.

    How security operatives profit from the shadow economy

    Security agents tasked with protecting Nigeria’s oil infrastructure are often complicit in the very crimes they are meant to prevent. In both Bayelsa and Rivers, findings revealed a system of kickbacks and bribes that greases the wheels of illegal refining, with security forces themselves becoming investors in this dark industry.

    “The truth is, the security forces know exactly what’s going on out here. They’re not just turning a blind eye—they’re getting a piece of the pie. We’ve had soldiers and police officers who come around, not to shut us down, but to collect their share. They’re part of this whole thing. The raids are just for show. As long as they’re getting their cut, they let the work continue. We know this because every time they arrest someone, they’re out before you know it, back on the job,” Gideon Iyalla, an oil tanker driver in Degema, Rivers State.

    Nigeria loses an estimated 400,000 barrels of oil daily to theft, costing the government trillions of naira in estimated revenue.

    Since the early 2000s, the Nigerian military, including the Army, Air Force, Navy, and Police, has operated in the Niger Delta through a Joint Task Force (JTF) to combat militants and protect oil infrastructure. According to Chatham House and eyewitnesses, some JTF members guard illegal tap points and escort ships loaded with stolen crude oil. The SDN similarly reports that JTF personnel protect illegal oil thieves, charge “transportation taxes,” and even manage security for illegal refineries.

    Military to the rescue?

    Despite its alleged complicity in the malaise, the Nigerian military has made efforts to combat oil theft and illegal refineries. Since 2018, the JTF has destroyed hundreds of these refineries. Recently, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) conducted airstrikes near Port Harcourt, destroying eight illegal refining sites and six canoes loaded with stolen oil products.

    In August 2024, the Nigerian Army destroyed 27 illicit refineries and seized over 300,000 liters of stolen crude oil during raids in the Niger Delta. Vehicles, storage tanks, and metal drums were confiscated, and army commanders emphasised the importance of maintaining pipeline integrity and working with local communities to combat crime.

    The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), which oversees the importation of petrol, has equally been mired in allegations of graft and backdoor deals. Contracts for fuel imports are shrouded in opacity, allowing sub-standard products to slip into the market unchecked. Meanwhile, regulatory agencies, weakened by corruption and infighting, struggle to enforce even the most basic standards, allowing the cycle of exploitation to continue unchecked.

    Turning ashes to light

    There are speculations that modular refineries—miniature wells producing between 1,000 and 10,000 barrels a day—could be the salve to soothe the thirst of the Niger Delta. It would be recalled that 65 licenses were granted, first by Jonathan, and then by Buhari, for modular refineries. Yet they were not built.

    To ignite a transformation in Nigeria’s refining landscape, modular refineries must be harmonised with the operationaliasation of the country’s four major refineries: The Port Harcourt Refinery, Warri Refinery, Kaduna Refinery, and the newly launched Dangote Refinery, argued Majorie Oritse, an oil entrepreneur.

    These refineries, long plagued by inefficiencies and underutilisation, hold the potential to anchor a robust domestic refining industry. Therefore, the government must reach out with the tangible support of collateral and incentives and encourage the formation of cooperatives, according to major stakeholders. The lessons of the Amnesty Programme, they argued, must be reshaped into paths of direct employment.

    The solution, however, requires a more decisive roundtable of voices inclusive of the youths, the government, illegal operators, regulatory authorities and host communities, who must jointly balance the scales of community dreams, industry realities, and government duties.

    “Our problem is hardly a want of brilliant policies and ideas but the moral will and patriotic spirit to implement them,” argued Festus Oritse, a retired geologist and kerosene dealer.

    He said, “The Ministry of Petroleum Resources and the Petroleum Technology Development Fund must look beyond the smoke and see the potential in the operators of the illicit artisanal oil refineries. With the right guidance, they could be coopted into a more structured oil economy. The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and NNPCL among others, must be empowered to battle the scourge of illicit refineries.”

  • A new era of strategic overhaul reinforces defence sector strength

    A new era of strategic overhaul reinforces defence sector strength

    As Nigeria continues to navigate its complex security landscape, the Ministry of Defence stands at the forefront of efforts to secure a stable future. By implementing innovative strategies, strengthening capabilities, and fostering strong partnerships, the Ministry is actively enhancing Nigeria’s resilience against evolving security threats. These efforts are marked by dynamic policy shifts and robust international collaborations, integrating cutting-edge technology and elevating domestic defence capabilities. This approach sets a new benchmark for military readiness in Nigeria. In this report, MUSA UMAR BOLOGI writes that the transformative changes are steadily boosting the nation’s defence capabilities, enabling it to confront emerging threats with renewed vigour.

    Amid the intricate and evolving challenges of national security, the Ministry of Defence remains the cornerstone of Nigeria’s efforts to uphold peace and stability. This vital institution’s role extends well beyond conventional military duties, encompassing the formulation of strategic policies, the advancement of defence technologies, and the cultivation of international alliances.

    On August 21, 2023, Nigeria experienced a pivotal leadership transition with the appointment of Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle as the Minister of State for Defence. His arrival at this critical juncture, when Nigeria’s security landscape was marked by increasing complexities and threats, was more than a mere change in personnel. It was a strategic move reflecting a renewed commitment to addressing urgent security challenges with innovative solutions and decisive action. From the outset, Matawalle has championed a vision of a strengthened defence framework, driven by a mandate to protect every Nigerian and dispel the shadows of insecurity.

    His responsibilities encompass a wide range of activities, including the formulation of defence policies, fostering international defence cooperation, advancing the defence industry, and managing civil-military relations. This appointment, made by President Bola Tinubu and confirmed by the legislative arm, signalled the beginning of a new chapter in Nigeria’s defence sector. Matawalle’s entry into the Ministry came at a time of escalating security concerns, requiring a strategic and responsive approach to national defence. His tenure has been characterised by a proactive and methodical approach to tackling Nigeria’s multifaceted security challenges, guided by a clear commitment to the President’s agenda of “protecting all Nigerians from danger and from the fear of danger.” This overarching objective has shaped every aspect of his work, from policy formulation to operational strategies.

    Strategic policy formulation and enhancing defence intelligence

    One of the core functions of the Ministry of Defence is to formulate and implement policies that ensure national security. Under Matawalle’s leadership, there has been a concerted effort to review and update these policies to reflect the evolving security landscape. This includes revising existing frameworks and developing new strategies to address emerging threats such as insurgency, terrorism, and organised crime. The emphasis has been on creating policies that are not only responsive but also anticipatory, preparing the Armed Forces to effectively counter future challenges.

    Matawalle has also championed the integration of advanced technology into defence strategies. Recognising the increasing role of technology in modern warfare, he has advocated for the adoption of cutting-edge tools and systems that enhance intelligence gathering, operational efficiency, and tactical effectiveness. This forward-looking approach aims to ensure that Nigeria’s defence capabilities remain competitive on a global scale.

    Effective defence intelligence is crucial for pre-emptive action and informed decision-making. Under Matawalle, the Ministry of Defence has made significant strides in strengthening its intelligence capabilities. This involves enhancing the collection, analysis, and dissemination of intelligence to better anticipate and respond to security threats. Efforts have also been made to improve coordination between various intelligence agencies and the Armed Forces. By fostering greater collaboration and information sharing, the Ministry aims to create a more integrated and responsive intelligence framework. This approach is designed to enhance situational awareness and enable more effective counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations.

    Defence diplomacy has become a vital component of Nigeria’s international relations, shaping the country’s engagement with its neighbours and other global actors. Under a new leadership, there has been a strong emphasis on strengthening defence diplomacy to build strategic partnerships and enhance regional security cooperation. The Ministry has actively worked to reinforce ties with neighbouring countries and international defence organisations. This has included participating in joint exercises, sharing best practices, and engaging in collaborative security initiatives aimed at addressing transnational security threats and promoting stability in the region.

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    A robust defence industry is essential for sustaining military capabilities and reducing dependence on external suppliers. Matawalle has recognised the importance of developing Nigeria’s defence industry to support the Armed Forces and bolster national security. His efforts have focused on promoting local defence manufacturing, research and development, and technological innovation. To this end, the Ministry has encouraged investment in the defence sector and supported local defence contractors. By fostering a thriving defence industry, the Ministry aims to enhance self-reliance and ensure that the Armed Forces have access to the latest equipment and technologies.

    Effective civil-military relations are crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring that military actions align with societal values and needs. Matawalle has prioritised improving civil-military relations to foster a positive relationship between the Armed Forces and the civilian population. Initiatives have been launched to enhance transparency, accountability, and community engagement. The Ministry has also worked to address human rights concerns, ensuring that military operations are conducted with respect for civilian life and property. By building stronger ties with communities, the Ministry aims to increase cooperation and support for security efforts.

    The Ministry has consistently engaged key stakeholders, including military leadership, through strategic initiatives and actionable policies. Under Matawalle’s visionary leadership, the Nigerian Armed Forces have significantly shifted their approach to combating insurgency, terrorism, banditry, and other forms of criminality. With his extensive experience and deep understanding of the nation’s complex challenges, Matawalle has notably enhanced the operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN). Additionally, the Ministry has introduced and implemented impactful policies, enacted crucial reforms, and established strong alliances, all of which have positively influenced the Nigerian Military’s effectiveness.

    Enhanced operational effectiveness of the armed forces

    Under the renewed leadership of the Ministry of Defence, the Nigerian Armed Forces have made significant strides in combating terrorism and other forms of criminality. Shortly after his appointment, the Minister convened a crucial meeting with the service chiefs to discuss and implement more effective strategies. He stressed the importance of improved synergy and intelligence sharing among the services and sought additional funding from both the executive and legislative branches. In response to these directives, the services adopted a collaborative approach to intelligence gathering and sharing, which has enabled more efficient analysis and dissemination of information. This shift has led to the prompt identification of terrorist kingpins and their networks, resulting in a notable decline in civilian casualties, increased recovery of weapons, and a rise in the number of terrorists surrendering.

    Over the past 10 months alone, more than 2,000 terrorists have surrendered, and over 200 weapons, along with 3,000 rounds of ammunition, have been recovered. This change in tactics and operations reflects the combined impact of strong political will, effective strategic leadership, and the resilience of the service chiefs. The President’s decisive actions at the grand strategic level, coupled with the Ministry of Defence’s strategic oversight and the service chiefs’ operational effectiveness, have collectively fostered a renewed sense of determination and success within the Nigerian Armed Forces.

    Under the direct supervision of the Minister of State for Defence, the Nigerian Navy has significantly enhanced its operational capabilities, thanks to additional funding secured through the Minister’s diligent efforts in defending the Defence supplementary budget in November 2023. This financial boost has enabled the Navy to intensify its maritime patrols, both in the backwaters and on the high seas. In alignment with the Minister’s strict policy on improved synergy, the Nigerian Navy has strengthened collaborations with other maritime stakeholders. By leveraging advanced surveillance systems such as Falcon Eye and Regional Maritime Awareness Capability, the Navy, in cooperation with its partners and allies, has effectively tackled maritime crimes, including oil theft, piracy, illegal fishing, and marine pollution. These combined efforts have significantly curtailed these crimes.

    Similarly, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has made remarkable progress under the Ministry of Defence’s guidance. The NAF has excelled in identifying and neutralising terrorist targets through meticulous intelligence surveillance and armed reconnaissance missions. In the past 10 months, the NAF has achieved notable successes, including the targeted killing of over 10 terrorist and bandit kingpins through precise air strikes. These actions have not only disrupted terrorist logistics but have also diminished their capacity and will to fight. The NAF’s operational improvements are directly linked to the Minister’s commitment to ensuring jointness in the planning and execution of missions. The Minister’s strategic guidance has been instrumental in transforming the NAF into a more effective fighting force. Overall, the prompt intelligence sharing and coordinated operations facilitated by the Ministry of Defence have significantly strengthened the counter-terrorism efforts of the Nigerian Armed Forces, yielding tangible and substantial results.

    Policies and reforms, defence diplomacy and alliances

    Upon his appointment as the Minister of State for Defence, Matawalle took immediate action to address the welfare of Nigerian veterans and the efficiency of military production. One of his first significant steps was to host a meeting with 14 veteran groups from across the country. This meeting aimed to highlight the benefits of the Defence Health Maintenance Scheme (DHML) and to clarify various misconceptions surrounding it. Matawalle expressed deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by Nigerian veterans and assured them of his commitment to prioritising their interests. The discussion culminated in a resolution to hold quarterly meetings between DHML stakeholders and veterans to continually address and resolve issues related to veterans’ health managem ent. Additionally, Matawalle is actively seeking additional funding for military healthcare services to ensure comprehensive insurance coverage and improved management of the DHML.

    In his role overseeing the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), Matawalle is spearheading key reforms to enhance the Corporation’s production capabilities. A major initiative under his leadership is the facilitation of the DICON Bill of 2023, which seeks to expand DICON’s operational scope by enabling joint production of military hardware with foreign defence industries. This Bill will allow DICON to collaborate more effectively and benefit from technology transfer agreements. He has stipulated that only proposals incorporating technology transfer will be considered for collaboration. Furthermore, he has mandated DICON to expand the production of Small Arms and Light Weapons through partnerships with verified indigenous companies, thereby bolstering local manufacturing capabilities and supporting the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

    The implementation of these policies and reforms under Matawalle’s leadership is poised to yield several significant benefits. By reducing production times and defence spending, these initiatives will contribute to a more efficient use of resources. Additionally, they are expected to enhance public trust in the defence sector as the increased transparency and effectiveness of military operations become more evident. The reforms also aim to bolster human capacity development by fostering skill-building and expertise within the defence industry. This, in turn, will strengthen Nigeria’s technological base, ensuring that the country remains at the forefront of military innovation. The modernisation and improvement of the nation’s military inventory align with the key objectives of the renewed hope agenda of this administration, reflecting a commitment to advancing both the capabilities and the credibility of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

    One of Dr. Matawalle’s core strategies as Minister of State for Defence has been to forge strategic alliances and partnerships that bolster the defence sector and benefit the nation as a whole. Since assuming office, he has actively engaged with various defence allies to explore new avenues for cooperation and to strengthen existing relationships. In October 2023, Dr. Matawalle hosted the Danish Ambassador and his delegation at his office, where discussions centred on identifying new opportunities for collaboration in defence and security. The meeting covered a broad range of topics, including regional and global security challenges, and explored potential partnerships in defence technology, military training, and joint exercises. A key highlight was the dialogue on expanding the longstanding maritime security partnership between Nigeria and Denmark, aiming to enhance cooperation in this critical area.

    Beyond bilateral relationships, Matawalle has been instrumental in advancing multilateral security efforts. He played a pivotal role in the formation of the Gulf of Guinea Maritime Task Force, a significant initiative of the Gulf of Guinea Commission (GGC). The GGC was established to promote cooperation, sustainable development, and security in the Gulf of Guinea region, addressing common challenges such as maritime security, illegal activities at sea, environmental protection, and socio-economic development. Under Dr. Matawalle’s leadership, a Nigerian Navy officer was appointed as the Task Force Commander, with the headquarters established in Nigeria. This strategic positioning underscores Nigeria’s central role in regional security efforts. Furthermore, Matawalle recently travelled to Gabon to bolster collaborative efforts against security threats in the Gulf of Guinea, including piracy, banditry, illegal fishing, marine pollution, and human and drug trafficking. These initiatives reflect Dr. Matawalle’s commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s defence capabilities through strategic alliances and regional cooperation, aligning with the broader goals of the administration’s renewed hope agenda.

    Matawalle has also been actively advancing Nigeria’s defence capabilities and international partnerships. A notable initiative under his leadership was the joint meeting he chaired with the Governor of Borno State, representatives from the Ministry of Defence, and the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS). This meeting resulted in the Governor approving a building in Maiduguri as the headquarters for the National Mine Action Centre and Improvised Explosive Devices. This move underscores Nigeria’s commitment to the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention and its dedication to addressing landmine and explosive remnants of war issues.

    To further operationalise the National Mine Action Centre, Dr. Matawalle hosted a meeting with Ms. Ilene Cohn, the Director of UNMAS in New York, in the first quarter of 2024. Ms. Cohn expressed gratitude for the conducive environment created by the Ministry of Defence, which has facilitated UNMAS’s partnership in establishing the Centre. She pledged continued support, including equipping and training additional Improvised Explosive Device (IED) and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) personnel in the police and civil defence sectors to better address regional threats.

    In December 2023, Dr. Matawalle embarked on a visit to the United States with objectives focused on assessing the products of defence companies and advocating for increased U.S. support in combating insecurity in the West African sub-region. During his visit, he met with Congresswoman Betty McCollum, a member of the subcommittee on appropriations in the U.S. Congress. Their discussions centred on strengthening the bilateral defence relationship between Nigeria and the United States, covering topics such as defence policy, information sharing, joint training exercises, technology transfer, and collaborative defence initiatives. Both parties expressed a strong commitment to enhancing regional security and defence capabilities through improved cooperation and interoperability.

    The success of Dr. Matawalle’s diplomatic efforts was further evidenced by a letter of appreciation from Congresswoman McCollum, which reaffirmed the U.S. government’s commitment to strengthening the defence partnership with Nigeria. The letter highlighted the importance of sustained cooperation in the defence and security sectors, reflecting the positive outcome of Matawalle’s engagement.

    As Minister of State for Defence, he has been dedicated to modernising the Nigerian Armed Forces and strengthening global defence partnerships. In the last quarter of 2023, he undertook a significant visit to Turkey to inspect military hardware being produced for Nigeria and to reinforce defence ties between the two nations. During his visit, Matawalle reviewed the progress and quality of military equipment being manufactured for the Nigerian Armed Forces, including state-of-the-art helicopters, naval vessels, and other crucial defence assets. This first-hand inspection highlighted the advanced capabilities of the equipment and underscored the commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s defence capabilities. The equipment being produced in Turkey is set to significantly bolster the capabilities of Nigeria’s three armed services upon delivery.

    The visit to Turkey also facilitated the accelerated delivery of defence equipment. Remarkably, less than five months after the visit, the Nigerian Air Force received and commissioned its new helicopters from Turkey. On April 19, 2024, the First Lady, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, accompanied by Matawalle and the Chief of Naval Staff, commissioned two offshore patrol vessels in Turkey for the Nigerian Navy. These additions have significantly enhanced the Navy’s operational capacity and, by extension, the overall capability of the Nigerian Armed Forces. During both visits, Matawalle actively explored opportunities for increased technology transfer and expanded defence industry cooperation between Nigeria and Turkey. By leveraging Turkey’s expertise in defence manufacturing, he has worked to strengthen Nigeria’s defence industrial base. This collaboration is already yielding positive outcomes, fostering greater self-reliance, economic growth, and job creation in both nations.

    As the Minister of State for Defence, Matawalle is leading efforts to develop a robust cybersecurity strategy for the defence sector. This strategy aims to safeguard critical defence infrastructure, mitigate cyber threats, and ensure the integrity of sensitive defence information. By implementing these measures, the strategy will bolster national security and protect against potential disruptions or breaches within the defence network. On February 3, 2024, Dr. Matawalle participated in a pivotal global meeting of Defence Ministers held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The meeting focused on devising effective strategies to coordinate military operations against terrorism, counter-terrorism financing, and ideological extremism. During this landmark event, Matawalle and other coalition members discussed actionable initiatives to dismantle terrorist networks and disrupt their operations, with a focus on Nigeria and the broader Sahel region.

    In his address, Dr. Matawalle emphasised the evolving and increasingly complex nature of terrorism, asserting the need for a united coalition approach. He stated, “The threat of terrorism continues to evolve, becoming more complex and widespread. It is therefore imperative that we, as a coalition, stand side by side, combining our resources and expertise to protect our nations and maintain global security. Pertinently, it is crucial to reinforce Nigeria’s commitment and the need for deeper partnerships in the areas of intelligence sharing, technical support, and training to enhance regional and national security.”

    The meeting concluded with a strong consensus among the attending defence ministers, who pledged their support and cooperation to jointly combat terrorism across all member states. This commitment underscores a collective resolve to address security challenges through enhanced collaboration and shared resources. Through his adept diplomatic negotiations and collaborative defence agreements, Bello Matawalle is significantly enhancing Nigeria’s regional and global influence. His efforts in forging partnerships and agreements have not only elevated Nigeria’s standing on the international stage but also facilitated a more coordinated approach to addressing security challenges.

    Matawalle’s engagements with international allies have been pivotal in fostering prompt intelligence sharing and ensuring appropriate responses to both regional and global security issues. These collaborations have enabled Nigeria to benefit from a broader pool of intelligence and resources, leading to more effective and timely countermeasures against emerging threats. As a result, Nigeria is better positioned to address security concerns and contribute to stability and peace in the region and beyond.

    Inter-agency collaborations

    As Minister of State for Defence, Matawalle is spearheading a unified and comprehensive approach to national security through strategic interagency collaborations. By leveraging the expertise and resources of various ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs), he aims to strengthen the safeguarding of national security and the protection of critical infrastructure.

    In the first quarter of 2024, Matawalle paid a courtesy visit to the office of the Comptroller General of Immigration. This visit led to a collaborative effort with the Honourable Minister of Interior (HMOI) to establish a passport data capturing centre specifically for members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and their immediate families. Recognizing the frequent travel requirements of armed forces personnel for training and other engagements abroad, this initiative seeks to streamline the passport data capturing process. The new facility, projected to be located at the Headquarters Defence Intelligence Agency in Abuja, is expected to enhance synergy between the armed forces and the immigration service, thereby improving operational efficiency.

    Additionally, in his role overseeing the Military Pension Board (MPB), Matawalle is working to modernize and digitalise the pension verification process for military retirees. The MPB, responsible for administering benefits to retired and deceased personnel, has traditionally conducted annual physical verifications at various centres across Nigeria. This process has been burdensome and inconvenient for many veterans, particularly those who are elderly or living abroad. To address these challenges, Matawalle has implemented a digital verification system using National Identification Numbers (NIN) and Bank Verification Numbers (BVN). This innovation allows veterans to authenticate their status electronically, both domestically and internationally, easing their burden and leveraging emerging technology to improve efficiency and interagency collaboration. These initiatives reflect Matawalle’s commitment to enhancing the operational effectiveness of the armed forces and improving the lives of veterans through innovative and collaborative approaches.

    In a significant move to reduce foreign dependency on defence equipment, the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) has locally manufactured 20 Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs). These APCs were formally handed over to the Chief of Defence Staff, General C.G. Musa (OFR). This initiative underscores Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening its domestic defence capabilities and fostering self-reliance in military equipment production. The delivery of these locally produced APCs marks a crucial step in enhancing the operational readiness of the Nigerian Armed Forces while supporting the growth of the national defence industry.                      

  • How to prevent fire outbreaks, by experts

    How to prevent fire outbreaks, by experts

    Cases of fire outbreaks in major cities in Nigeria have become worrisome. A fire outbreak in a public building sometimes occurs in the finance and administrative sectors. Pessimists will quickly conclude that such a fire outbreak was aimed at covering a financial crime. Fire outbreaks become personal when a house, market or even worship place as recently witnessed in Christ Embassy. People feel it will never happen to them and neglect to procure something as small as smoke detectors and other appliances that warn of imminent fire incidence. In this report, Assistant Editor, OKWY IROEGBU-CHIKEZIE, spoke to experts on the way out.

    There is no smoke without fire has long been a common parlance; though a trite one. Indeed, there is hardly a fire outbreak without initial smoke signaling what is about to happen. Some people have helplessly watched their houses or shops burnt down either because they were confused about what to do or help didn’t come on time.

    A significant part of the church building of Believers’ Loveworld also known as Christ Embassy in Oregun, Ikeja was recently engulfed by fire.

    The founder of the church, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome was said to have given the incident a spiritual interpretation as he was quoted to have said: “The fire incident was beyond the ordinary; but of a celestial and spiritual nature. When something like this happens, we look at what God thinks; He just allows us to do something about it. What are we going to do? The house of God has been burnt down; we clear the place and build a better and more beautiful one. That’s what we’re going to do.

    “Let the devil lick his wound. We must look at life from the spiritual. This is not an accident because we’re not ordinary people; we’re always helped. He told us even when we walk; we’ll not hit our foot on the stone because He gives His angels charge over us. Everything that happens in life is a plan.”

    Most members interviewed by The Nation were of the same notion; Mrs. Adanma Apia, Yetunde Ilori and Pastor Sola Osunmakinde also corroborated the fact that the acoustic in the auditorium is such that except you come into the auditorium of the Church, you will not know that a large congregation is inside.

    He added that Pastor Oyakhilome took time to make provision for smoke detectors, fire hydrants and everything needed to prevent fire, each of them maintained that the fire was not ordinary.

    The 2016 World Life Expectancy Report ranked Nigeria first in the global rating of deaths resulting from fire outbreaks. “It is time questions were asked as to whether Nigerian communities are literally on fire,” the report noted.

     Fire incidents have become a rising source of concern for Nigerians, notably the frequent occurrences of market fires.

    These fire incidents have resulted in the loss of life and property, as well as imposed financial hardship on victims.

    Livelihoods are jeopardised; with billions of naira worth of goods destroyed, leaving people jobless and hopeless.

    According to media report, over 50 fire outbreaks were recorded in different markets across Nigeria between November 2020 and August 2021.

    Read Also; The Message in Retrospect

    The markets that were engulfed in fire included those in Lagos, Ibadan, Abuja, Sokoto, Kano and Edo.

    Also in the report, from November 2019 to 2022, the famed Balogun Market in Lagos, for example, witnessed six fire outbreaks.

    The Maiduguri Central Market, known as the Monday Market, caught fire in February 2022. Also, the largest grain market Gamboru went up in flames in March.

    Three fire outbreaks in Singer, Kurmi and Rimi occurred in Kano markets in March. Also, most fire outbreaks have occurred in state facilities that are of strategic value to the country, thereby making fire an issue of public concern.

    About four years ago, Treasury House, a building housing the office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF) was gutted by fire. A week later, the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) headquarters in Maitama, Abuja was also gutted by fire. Also, the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the popular Dugbe Market in Ibadan were the next to record a fire outbreak just two days after that of the CAC.

    The month of May was not an exception as it was reported that fire destroyed two IDP camps in Borno State, the popular Ogbeogonogo Market in Asaba and Oloyele Market in Somolu, Lagos and latest in June this year was the massive fire outbreak on the headquarters of Christ Embassy Church in Ikeja with all its sophistication and fire hydrants.

    These and many more point to the fact that every state in Nigeria is vulnerable to the impacts of fire incidences.

    Experts attribute this to various factors such as power outages, power surges, electrical sparks, illegal electricity connections, improper electrical fittings, substandard building materials, and defective or indoor use of generators.

    Other factors include storing adulterated fuel at home and siting petrol and gas stations near residential and marketplaces. Besides, inaccessibility to most residential areas and market places when there is a fire outbreak also compounds the problem.

    This is not nconnected with the chaotic nature of roads and the unplanned environment of most Nigerian cities. Another major factor contributing to the increase in the occurrence of fire outbreaks is the total neglect of fire safety measures during the design and construction phases of structures. Likewise, public or private buildings with fire extinguishers, fire and smoke detectors, fire exits, warning signs and designated assemble fire points are hard to come by.

    The Managing Director of Nigeria Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA), Aliyu Tahir said: “Most fire incidents are caused by the activities of unqualified and uncertified electricians. He said the agency was set up to certify electrical personnel that are engaged for installation nationwide to ensure that quackery in installation works is drastically reduced. There is the need to ensure the removal of substandard materials and equipment in all the markets in the country.”

    Fire outbreak can be avoided, if all precautionary measures are strictly adhered to. Also, the engaging professional electrical technicians in running most of the electrical appliances in our homes and facilities will drastically reduce incidents of fire outbreak.

    Reeling off other reasons fire outbreaks occur, Tamara Ebie, an expert in fire safety said unattended cooking is one of the primary causes of kitchen fires. Leaving a stove or oven unattended to can cause food to burn and trigger fire outbreak. Others, according to him, are grease build-up on cooking appliances over time. If not cleaned regularly, the grease can ignite or cause a fire outbreak.

    He said: “Placing combustible items such as wooden utensils and paper towels near the stove or oven can ignite and cause fire. Faulty appliances can cause fire, and this is more likely to happen if the appliances are old, damaged or not used properly.

    On prevention strategies, he said it is essential to ensure that one raises an alarm or quickly take action if anything goes wrong. He also stated that there was the need to keep the area around the stove or oven clear of combustible items such as paper towels, dishcloths or wooden utensils.

    He advised that the stove and oven should be cleaned regularly to avoid grease build-up, which can ignite and cause fire.

    He harped on the need to keep fire extinguisher in the kitchen and knowing how to use it. According to him, having a fire extinguisher in the kitchen can be a lifesaver in case of fire outbreak.

    According to him there is a need to always keep watch on the smoke detectors.

    “Smoke detectors are essential in alerting one in case of any fire incidence. One should ensure that smoke detectors are functioning properly and should replace the batteries regularly. Also, there is the need to read the instruction manual for cooking appliances and use them correctly as this will reduce the risk of fire caused by a faulty appliance.

    Electrical fire are another leading cause of outbreak in houses which can start from a variety of sources, including faulty electrical appliances, overloaded circuits, faulty wiring and poor electrical maintenance,” he said.

    Emphasising thorough check on faulty electrical appliances, Ebie said that appliances can become faulty over time due to wear and tear or poor maintenance; causing them to overheat and ignite nearby materials, leading to fire outbreaks.

    For Lucky Igbinoba, an Engineer, overloading circuits by plugging in too many appliances into a single socket or outlet can cause overheating, leading to fire outbreak. Older homes with outdated wiring systems are particularly susceptible to this. Poorly installed or outdated wiring can also cause electrical fire. Old wiring can wear out and crack, leading to exposed wires that can ignite nearby materials.

    He emphasised the need to avoid plugging too many appliances into a single socket. He further advised that owners of old buildings and old wires should consider having it replaced with newer, safer wiring as it can help prevent electrical fire caused by worn-out or damaged wiring.

    He noted that in our clime where there are a lot of fake and substandard electrical materials, leaving our gas or electrical appliances unattended may likely cause much harm as most cables and wires cannot stand high voltage.

    On prevention strategies, Igbinoba recommended regular electrical maintenance.

    His words: It is crucial to have a qualified electrician inspect one’s electrical system regularly, especially if one’s property is old. High-quality products that have been tested and certified by reputable agencies and regular maintenance can identify potential hazards and allow for timely repairs, thereby preventing electrical fire.

     “Turn off appliances and unplug them when not in use. This can help prevent overheating and overloading circuits, which can lead to electrical fire.

    “Another common cause of house fire outbreaks is smoking. Cigarettes and cigars, among others, are capable of causing fire outbreaks; resulting in significant damage and even loss of life. It is essential to understand the hazards of smoking and to implement preventive measures to ensure the safety of houses and their surroundings.”

    He also stated that fire disasters can also come through the bathroom and the need to take caution. Igbinoba advised on the need to use heaters with automatic shut-off.

    According to him, it is essential to use heaters with an automatic shut-off feature as it will ensure that the heater turns off if it overheats. This will reduce the risk of fire outbreaks.

    He said: “It is important never to leave a heater unattended to, especially if there are children around. If leaving the room, turn off the heater and unplug it. Heaters should be placed on a stable surface that is not easily tipped over. This reduces the risk of the heater falling and causing a fire outbreak.

    “Regular maintenance of heaters is essential to reduce the risk of fire outbreaks. Heaters should be inspected and cleaned regularly, and any faulty components should be repaired or replaced immediately.”