The Nation Newspaper

Category: Special Report

  • Unsafe abortion: Taming a leading, silent killer

    Unsafe abortion: Taming a leading, silent killer

    There have been complaints about the rate at which women and girls die as a result of unsafe abortions. To tame this silent killer, experts and stakeholders in the Sexual Reproductive Health sector converged on Ibadan, the Oyo State capital to ruminate on how to do more for women and girls. YINKA ADENIRAN looks at the issue and efforts to tame the menace of unsafe abortion among women and girls.

    For months, Sola Oduwole (pseudonym) could not forgive herself. She felt guilty as she felt she had a role to play in what had befallen her family. She just lost a sister (Olawunmi) who underwent surgery to cut off one of her breasts after she was diagnosed of breast cancer. Painfully, she died weeks after the surgery.

    Her late sister (Olawunmi) had complained of pain on her right breast. She had pains on her armpit which she thought was a boil.

    A minor surgery had earlier been carried out to extract the particles. A further test carried out on the extracted part showed signs of cancer. She received medical advice on the need to cut off the breast due to the excruciating pains she experienced.

    After rallying round to raise some funds, Olawunmi’s husband was able to secure a small shop for her somewhere around Iwo Road, Ibadan. Not too long after the shop was secured and plans to begin business operation started, Olawunmi discovered she was pregnant.

    She confided in Sola who supported the idea of terminating the pregnancy; hence the need for an abortion.

    The pregnancy was over five months by the time she resolved to abort it, despite so much discouragement from her husband.

    But why did Sola feel so guilty? She reasoned that her support for abortion of the unintended pregnancy was the cause of the problem.

    Sola’s dilemma is one among millions of women experiencing abortion complications.

    Although research has not shown any link between abortion and breast cancer, many women in rural communities still carry the guilt and fear anytime they have to carry out abortion of unintended pregnancies, especially in unqualified facilities.

    Scholars to action

    Worried by these views, medical experts, scholars and researchers in public health have also expressed deep concern over the alarming rates of death resulting from unsafe abortions. As such, they have urged the government to significantly increase its investment in sexual and reproductive health.

    The experts agreed that women and girls aged 15 to 49 lose their lives daily due to abortion-related causes.

    These views were expressed during a special session titled “The Public Health Challenges of Unintended Pregnancies and Abortion: Global and National Dimensions.”

    The session was organised by Academy for Health Development (AHEAD) an Ile-Ife, Osun State-based non-governmental organisation (NGO), in collaboration with the Guttmacher Institute whose headquarters is in New York, USA.

    The event was an integral component of the 5th Scientific Conference of the Society for Public Health Professionals of Nigeria (SPHPN).

    According to the experts, Nigeria bears a staggering annual loss of over 67,000 women due to abortion-related complications, with an alarming daily average of at least 20 deaths across the country.

    Adesegun Fatusi, a Professor of Community Medicine and Public Health said Nigeria currently carries the heaviest burden of maternal mortality based on the latest research by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

    He noted that, as per the Federal Ministry of Health’s data, approximately 11 per cent of maternal deaths in Nigeria result from abortion.

    Combining these two statistics, it becomes evident that approximately 20 women lose their lives every day due to abortion-related causes. Fatusi, who is the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Medical Sciences, Ondo State, and foundation Secretary-General of SPHPN, stressed that the situation could be reversed if women’s sexual and reproductive health needs were adequately met with an additional per capital investment of $27.15 to supplement the current $3.11.

    He said: “If all the contraceptive, maternal, newborn, and abortion care needs in Nigeria were comprehensively addressed, the following sexual and reproductive health outcomes for women aged 15 to 49 years and their newborns would experience a significant improvement.

    “Unintended pregnancies would decline by 80 per cent; abortion rates would decrease by 80 per cent; unsafe abortions would plummet by 80 per cent; maternal deaths would diminish by 61 per cent, and newborn mortality would drop by 76 per cent.”

    Providing a global perspective on unintended pregnancies and abortions, a Senior Research Scientist at the Guttmacher Institute, Dr Jonathan Bearak shared some insights from a recent survey indicating that rates of unintended pregnancies are declining on the average worldwide but increasing in Nigeria.

    Speaker after speaker urged the government and various stakeholders to escalate efforts and take comprehensive actions to safeguard the lives of women.

    More concerns about unintended pregnancies

     The Chairman of the Management Committee of the Association for the Advancement of Family Planning, Dr Ejike Orji said unsafe abortion had more implications than what people may imagine.

    He said: “When women are unsuccessful in preventing pregnancies that they don’t want, the most likely thing is that they want to terminate that pregnancy, whether it is legal or not. And what usually happens is that you have a lot of disabilities caused.”

    While harping on the implications of the statistics presented at the event, Fatusi noted that more needs to be done.

    He said: “We know that unsafe abortion, as we define it, is when it is done by somebody who is not medically qualified or using a method that is not appropriate or recommended  by WHO and that is the cause of death that we have from abortion.”

    Position of the law on abortion, rape

    According to Fatusi, globally, when women want to carry out abortion, the law doesn’t stop them because women can go to any length to get it at all costs.

    He said: “Do you know that our law says you can have abortion only when the woman’s life is involved or when some mental conditions are involved? What we know globally is that when women want abortion, the law doesn’t stop them. If a woman wants abortion, she will use anything that she can.

    “Abortion happens because the woman does not intend to have that pregnancy. So, unintended pregnancy is the permanent cause of abortion. What our data says today is that almost half of women who have unintended pregnancy, in other words, pregnancies they didn’t plan for, will go ahead and abort it.

    So, things such as comprehensive sexual education or family life and HIV education are important to help equip our young people; those are the foundations.

    “The other foundation we must think about is the norms in our society. The social norms that deny people the opportunity to have access to contraceptives. We must think about the practices in our health facilities. “When a young girl comes to our facilities sometimes what they do is deny her access. We must think about that.

     “Firstly, we must improve access of women to information, education and quality services. Secondly are our laws, our norms and our social policies that discourage women from having access when they need to. “The other thing we need to do is to look at our data and research to see what we can do to ensure that our women can access health services. What are the barriers that are standing between them and health services? What are the factors promoting unsafe abortion? What can we do about that? And if we are intervening, how do we monitor progress? Those are three fundamental pillars that we can look at in trying to address the question of unsafe abortion in Nigeria.”

    On the issue of rape victims and other abuses to women, Prof. Fatusi said: “The Violence against Persons Prohibition Act (VAPP) law says that if a woman is violated and she gets pregnant, she has a right to access services.

    The National Coordinator, African Youth and Adolescent Network on Population and Development (AfriYan Nigeria), Elizabeth Alatu-Williams said there are many adolescents and young people who are engaging in unsafe sexual activities, which is predisposing them to unintended pregnancies and which in the long run, lead to unsafe abortion.

    “So, it’s important that we provide them with comprehensive sexuality education and this is basically a form of education that empowers them with life skills around goal-setting, self-esteem, values, assertiveness, being able to make decisions for themselves, being able to say no to sex until when they know that they are ready, and also being able to engage in safe sex if at all they have it or engage in sexual activities.

    “That’s why comprehensive sexuality education is so important and the Nigerian government has already published or approved the family life and HIV education curriculum which is our own adaptation of the CSE curriculum being implemented in junior secondary schools in Lagos and a couple of other states.”

    Alatu-Williams, who is also the Founder/Executive Director of Sustainable Impact and Development Initiative added that other stakeholders must join the government in the fight against the menace of sexual activities pervasive among adolescents and young people if unsafe abortion must be tamed, especially creation of safe centres where adolescents and young people can have access to sexual reproductive health education, information and service that is free of discrimination, stigma and is affordable and accessible.

    Calls to save more women, girls heighten

    The Country Director of IPAS Nigeria Health Foundation, Lucky Palmer said the gathering was a clarion call on all stakeholders to come to the aid of women and girls who die daily due to abortion-related causes.

    “The report is damning. We cannot have our women dying every day. If we want to move forward as a people, we need to pay attention to the health of our mothers, of our sisters. It’s about time that we need to collectively take a decision, whether the life of our women, of our sisters, of our daughters are worth being saved.

    “Abortion is a healthcare treatment; it is not a social concept. It’s just like treating HIV, hepatitis B. So, abortion is a right for every woman that needs the service to be treated.

    “Nigeria was one of the countries that did not achieve the minimum target for maternal mortality then by the SDG. We are now coming towards the halfway of the MDG. It should not be at the end of the day again that Nigeria will be found among those countries that did not meet the target and abortion is a low hanging boot that we can stop by changing our law and for example, just even allowing those women who were forced into getting pregnant through sexual violence to have access to the right type of treatment that they want.

    “We can reduce this number of women who are dying every hour. At least, two women from Nigeria die from complications of unsafe abortion. Can we turn the unsafe abortion to safe abortion? Yes, the trainings are there, the guidelines are there, but we need to change our laws and empower our healthcare workers to do the right thing.”

    Changing the narrative

     The Country Director of MSI Reproductive Choices Nigeria, Emmanuel Ajah believes the government needs to show more commitment beyond mere rhetoric.

    “There are a couple of things that we need to do. First is the government’s sincerity and support to the drive of sexual and reproductive health services. “In some communities, especially in the North, you have poor human resource for health. So, we need to make sure that even as we have done, we must ensure that there are many more people that are trainable and that can be equipped to continue to provide services.

    “Our religious and traditional leaders must be involved in whatever we are doing. There is the need for our women and girls to be able to make choices as part of their lives and it has become very important that we give them that support.”

  • How women can overcome societal barriers

    How women can overcome societal barriers

    In an illuminating conversation, Dr. Lilian Ekpo, Centre Director of NSIA-LUTH Cancer Centre, Idi-Araba, Lagos, delves into the multifaceted challenges faced by women and offers strategies to overcome them. From the complexities of childbearing to the pressures of family life, career advancement and maintaining health, women encounter obstacles that can hinder their societal contributions, often to a greater extent than men. Dr Ekpo sheds light on these burdens, emphasising the need to challenge cultural norms and promote equal sharing of familial responsibilities. Through insightful insights and actionable recommendations, she underscores the pivotal role of support systems and equitable policies in empowering women to thrive personally and professionally in today’s world. She spoke with CHINYERE OKOROAFOR. Excerpts

    Challenges women face and how to overcome them

    Supporting the family and raising children have historically been solely the woman’s responsibility. However, just as it takes two to bring a child into the world, it should take two to raise a child. By challenging cultural norms that have dictated these roles, we can ensure that responsibilities are shared as families grow. Women should have the same freedom as men to pursue their dreams and careers. The narrative that women are not capable needs to change. While women are often perceived as more emotional, it’s important to note that many barriers have been erected by men rather than women.

    In the same manner that a man feels supported in pursuing his career and dreams, a woman should also have the freedom to pursue hers. We must consistently challenge the narrative that women are incapable, despite the common perception that they are more emotional. Interestingly, it’s often men who have erected more barriers than women. I doubt there’s a single wall initiated by a woman on this planet. We’ve witnessed powerful and effective leadership from women throughout history. There are numerous examples of powerful and effective leadership from women throughout history. Take for instance Jacinda Ardern, the Prime Minister of New Zealand and her remarkable handling of the terrorist attacks with kindness, strength and courage—qualities we admire in a leader. It’s crucial to ensure women receive ample support and that family responsibilities are equitably distributed, enabling women to fulfil their potential. Having a child or taking a career break after having a baby should not mean the end of a woman’s career.

    As I mentioned earlier, it’s about establishing a support system. They often say it takes a village to raise a child, and indeed, it does. This “village” doesn’t have to conform to traditional norms; it’s about finding a network of trusted individuals who can lend support. This can include family members like mothers, sisters, or sisters-in-law, but it’s not limited to them. We should be open to relying on trusted domestic staff or tutors for our children—they too can be part of our village. Each person can tailor their support network based on their unique circumstances. Of course, having a supportive spouse is crucial, someone who shares the responsibilities and ensures the load isn’t solely on one person’s shoulders.

    It all begins with providing equal opportunities, starting with the selection process. When considering candidates, interviews shouldn’t be limited to just male applicants; both genders should be given equal consideration. Continuously reviewing policies is essential; they should be designed to support women and ensure they have the necessary resources to succeed in the workplace. Policies should be gender-inclusive, not biased against femininity. When assessing candidates for any position, merit and capability should be the primary criteria, not gender. It requires a thorough and consistent examination of existing policies to create a workplace that offers a level playing field for women to excel.

    I believe the real challenge lies in balancing child-rearing with work responsibilities, as every mother inevitably grapples with some form of guilt. Constantly questioning whether one is parenting correctly is part of the journey, as parenting is learned on the job; no one enters parenthood with prior experience. Even if you’ve raised one child, each subsequent child presents unique personalities and needs. What works for one might not work for another. However, once you establish a supportive system and structure, addressing the challenges becomes more manageable. Ensuring your child thrives academically and physically while juggling work responsibilities can be daunting. This struggle often leads to the belief that “having it all” is unattainable. Yet, I believe it’s possible, albeit not simultaneously. Sometimes, prioritizing family may require sacrificing career advancement, especially when children are younger. Later, when they become more independent, you can focus more on your career. Recognising this balance and making adjustments accordingly is key. There’s no magic solution, but acknowledging that motherhood is a full-time job in itself is essential. Establishing supportive structures ensures success both in the role of a mother and in one’s chosen career as a woman.

    How to manage health issues women often face

    Among the many health challenges women face, cancer stands out, particularly in my field of focus. Financial empowerment plays a significant role in this struggle. Even when women are financially capable, decision-making power is often not in their hands. In certain regions, the ability to choose their medical care is not theirs to make; it’s sometimes left to their husbands, and if denied, they have little recourse. Maternal health remains poor in our country, and cancer is rampant. Breast and cervical cancer cases are widespread, with more instances in women than men, even in malignancies. These are just a glimpse of the challenges women encounter.

    Maintaining good health requires various strategies, especially considering the balancing act of career and motherhood. It’s essential to recognise that you cannot pour from an empty cup. Women often prioritize others over themselves, but realizing that caring for oneself enables better care for the family is crucial. Prioritising rest and well-being, and incorporating supportive measures such as kitchen gadgets for healthier eating, can make a significant difference. Many people struggle to eat healthily due to time constraints, but with self-care as a priority, planning nutritious meals becomes feasible. Taking time for exercise, sleep, and relaxation is vital in preventing not only cancer but also other illnesses.

    There’s significant discourse surrounding perimenopause and menopause, with ongoing research shedding light on these phases. Women must understand that it’s not just menopause itself that poses challenges. Mental health issues and other difficulties can accompany this transition. Women shouldn’t suffer in silence; there are various avenues for support. Engaging with healthcare providers and making dietary adjustments can be beneficial. As women age, bone density decreases, and muscle loss accelerates, with a significant decline occurring annually starting around age 40.

    Once a woman is up to 40 years old, it’s important to start incorporating weight training into your routine. Using 5kg or 10kg weights can help prevent the accumulation of excess fat around your midsection. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial, so staying active and mobile is essential. Aim for at least 10,000 steps a day, incorporate weightlifting exercises, and ensure you’re consuming an adequate amount of protein daily while moderating carbohydrate intake through portion control. Prioritize high-quality animal protein sources. Additionally, consider taking multivitamin supplements to compensate for any nutritional gaps, especially when time constraints may lead to suboptimal food preparation methods. Increasing magnesium intake can also be beneficial as you age. These steps can help support overall health and well-being as you grow older.

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    Certainly, it’s crucial to prioritize regular health screenings and examinations. Perform monthly breast self-examinations to become familiar with the normal architecture of your breasts, enabling you to detect any changes promptly. Starting at age 40, consider scheduling regular mammograms to screen for breast cancer. Additionally, undergo colonoscopies to check for abnormalities in your digestive tract and cervical cancer screenings. It’s also essenti al to receive vaccinations, including the cervical cancer vaccine, which is often available free of charge at primary healthcare centres funded by the government in local communities. Finally, scheduling routine medical exams can provide valuable insights into your overall health and well-being.

    The top three common cancers that affect women are breast cancer, cervical cancer, and endometrial cancer, with colon cancer also being significant. Preventive measures for cancer apply universally, with some specific interventions. For instance, breastfeeding can help reduce the risk of breast and endometrial cancers by modulating hormone levels. However, the general advice for both men and women is to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This includes keeping weight in check and engaging in regular physical activity for at least 30 to 45 minutes, three to four times a week, even if it’s just walking. Exercise doesn’t have to be elaborate; consistency is key. Moving your body is crucial for overall health, as is maintaining a balanced diet. Remember, the more colourful your food, the richer it is in nutrients. Avoiding alcohol and smoking is essential, as they are carcinogens and can contribute to various health issues. Prioritize getting enough sleep, even though busy lifestyles and environmental factors like power outages and heat in places like Lagos can make it challenging. Despite these obstacles, prioritizing sleep is crucial for maintaining good health.

    To all women, Happy International Women’s Day! Remember, your power and strength lie within you just as you are. Being a woman is not a limitation but a source of empowerment. Embrace your femininity and harness your capabilities to rise up in every aspect of life. Governments worldwide should recognize the immense potential of women. By investing in women’s education and health, we can catalyze transformative change and uplift nations. Together, let’s celebrate the remarkable contributions of women and continue to strive for gender equality and empowerment.

    Your message highlights the persistent underestimation of women’s power and capabilities in the world. However, within NLCC, there’s a strong awareness of this fact. It’s not by design, but rather a testament to the presence of exceptionally powerful and capable women who have joined the force. This recognition underscores the importance of acknowledging and harnessing the potential of women in all spheres of society.

  • Insecurity: Experts, stakeholders in search of way-out

    Insecurity: Experts, stakeholders in search of way-out

    Over the years, Nigeria has been bedeviled by intractable security challenges. As hopes of plausible remedy dips, 23 of Nigeria’s 36 states established their security outfits to combat the monster within their distinct boundaries. In this report, IBRAHIM ADAM reviews strategies and suggestions proffered by critical stakeholders, including governors and experts on how to tackle the country’s horrid security situation.

    For so long, Nigeria and Nigerians have been under the siege of non-state actors who have unleashed intolerable harm on the citizens. Terrorists, bandits, robbers and secessionist agitators have become serious threats to Nigeria’s stability and national development.

    While Boko Haram terrorists plagued the northern region, the complex security situation in the southern part is further compounded by some ethnic secessionist movements such as the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) in the Southeast and the Yoruba agitation for self-determination in the Southwest.

    Boko Haram insurgents have no belief in Western education as they regard it as a source of moral decay and corruption. A s a result of the group’s ruthless operations, the North has the highest number of killings, followed by the Southeast.

    Added to this, many people have died during clashes among herders and farmers. The deaths are not limited to those suffered by the lowly individuals, there have been reported cases of traditional rulers in different geo-political zones that have been killed by the lawless non-state actors.

    A 2023 Nigeria Security Report by Beacon Consulting, a security risk management and intelligence consulting firm revealed that no fewer than 78,148 Nigerians were killed across the country were killed by insurgents from 2014 to 2023.

    The report indicated that 11,389 Nigerians were killed in 2014; 11,119 in 2015; 4,896 in 2016; 4,949 in 2017; 6,162 in 2018; 5,948 in 2019; 8,459 in 2020; 10,887 in 2021; 10,754 in 2022; and 3,585 in 2023.

    According to the report, 16,644 of the victims were killed by terrorists; 8,475 by bandits and 1,897 during farmers’/herders’ clashes.

    Similarly, recent report by the International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR) revealed that between 2013 and 2023, 19,718 Nigerians were kidnapped across the country.

    States with security outfits

     When the Federal Government seemed to be helpless and the non-state actors such as Boko Haram, bandits and agitators for self-determination continued to terrorise subnational entities, some state governments began to ruminate the possibility of establishing security outfits to protect their people.

    In the circumstances, therefore, between 2013 and this year, no fewer than 23 states had unveiled their security outfits. The moves were aimed at reducing the level of insecurity in such areas. Instead of the situation abating, terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, robbery, cultism, vandalism and other forms of criminalities are on the increase.

    Among the sub-nationals, Borno State, which was the epicentre of terrorism, was the first state government to establish a state-owned security outfit which it codenamed the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).

    Rivers State, in 2016 founded its security outfit called Service to maintain peace in some parts of the state. To increase the safety of people and property in the state, the state government also established a second security unit in 2019 codenamed Operation Sting.

    In 2017, the Lagos State Government established the Neighbourhood Safety Corps (LNSC) to support law enforcement and other security agencies in upholding the state’s law and order in the 57 local government and local council development areas.

    The Kaduna State Vigilance Service was founded by the state government in April 2018 by law number 10 of June 2016, during the height of bandits’ activities in the state. Governor Uba Sani announced in September 2023 that the 7,000 vigilante members who were recruited and trained would be deployed to all the rural communities to help combat crime and criminalities.

    The Ogun State Government established the Community Social Orientation and Safety Corps (So Safe Corps) in 2019 in an effort to combat robbery and cultism.

    The Western Nigeria Security Network (WNSN), codenamed Amotekun was established in 2020 by the Southwest states of Ondo, Ogun, Ekiti, Oyo, Lagos and Osun to tackle banditry, robbery, and kidnapping. The Houses of Assembly in the six states approved the law back the establishment of the security outfit despite initial opposition from the Nigeria Police.

    In Imo State, the Imo State Security Network was established in 2021 to halt the nefarious activities of unidentified gunmen as well as the incessant killings of police officers in the states.

    Also in 2021, a unified security unit known as Ebube Agu (Wonderful Tiger) was established by the governors of the five Southeastern states with the goal of “flushing out criminals and terrorists from the zone.”

    Also in 2021, the Niger Special Vigilante Corps was formed by the state government to combat killings and kidnappings perpetrated by bandits in several areas of the state, especially in the Shiroro Local Government Area.

    In 2022, the Bauchi State Government established the Bauchi State Vigilante and Youth Empowerment Agency with the aim of thwarting criminal activities, particularly those of terrorists. While both Gombe and Benue state governments established the Benue Volunteer Guards (BVGs) and the Gombe State Security, Traffic and Environmental Corps (GOSTEC) in 2022.

    In 2023, the Abia State Government founded its security outfit codenamed Operation Crush to address the ongoing abduction and robbery cases in the state. The governments of Akwa Ibom and Anambra states also established Ibom Community Watch and Anambra Vigilante Group respectively.

    Also, in 2023, Bayelsa State established the Community Safety Corps; Ebonyi with Ebonyi State Neighbourhood Watch and Enugu State came up with Distress Response Squad. Katsina State, a state in the Northwest devastated by terrorist attacks and banditry, launched the Community Watch Corps last year.

    The Plateau State Government launched 600 Neighbourhood Watch operatives in December last year which it codenamed Operation Rainbow; the same month that the Sokoto State Government established its Community Guard Corps that same month to work with other community policing organisations to combat cross-border banditry and kidnapping.

    In order to combat the killings and kidnappings committed by bandits in Zamfara State, the state government established the 2,645-member State Community Protection Guards in January.

    Impacts of Boko Haram on vulnerable groups

     In any form of catastrophe, women and children are hardest hit. In the wake of insurgency in Nigeria, thousands of women and girls have been seriously affected. Some of them have had their lives drastically altered by the activities of Boko Haram and other groups that have carried up arms against the State; forcing them into new responsibilities outside their homes.

    Majority of the estimated 1.8 million internally displaced people (IDPs) in the Northeast are women and children, despite that men have been killed in proportionately higher numbers.

    In 2014, the kidnapping of more than 200 schoolgirls in Chibok was the beginning of abduction of female students by Boko Haram; a symbolic imposition of its will on communities that opposed it, The group focused its abduction activities on Christians and later Muslim women.

    At first, female followers and forced conscripts could move more freely in government-controlled areas as spies, messengers, recruiters and smugglers since they were not seen as threats. The same rationale led Boko Haram to start using female suicide bombers in the middle of 2014.

    Insecurity in the Southeast

    In the yesteryear, the Southeast was noted for its serenity. However, as insecurity spreads, the Southeast geopolitical zone became one of the epicentres of insecurity. Happily, security situation in the zone has improved tremendously due to the successful operations by the Nigerian Army and other security agencies. The armed individuals frequently targeted state officials, government facilities, and security personnel. In similar attacks, hundreds of people were killed or injured, even as the non-state actors had issued a sit-at-home order directing every one indigenous to the region to stay indoors on Mondays. Governors of the five states in the region have met several times in a bid to end the Monday sit-at-home usually enforced by IPOB.

    In search of peace through PISE-P

    Aside from several moves made by critical stakeholders in the Southeast region, including governors, a major project aimed at ensuring peace in the area was, on December 29, 2023, launched in the historic town of Bende, Abia State by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives,  Benjamin Okezie Kalu.

    On what the project tagged “Peace in Southeast Project” (PISE-P) seeks to achieve, Kalu in his speech said that “PISE-P aims at promoting the application of non-kinetic (non-military) approaches to address the insecurity concerns in the Southeast and to facilitate peacemaking among communities and individuals impacted by past conflicts. The journey towards peace is not a destination. It is an ongoing process, one that requires our unflinching commitment and dedication.”

    Vice-President, Kashim Shettima who represented President Bola Tinubu observed that: “The terror groups that have held the Southeast to ransom are not a creation of the people of the region, or of Nigerians from other parts of the country.”

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    Tinubu said: “The problem we are here to solve as a community, as Umunna is a creation of self-serving criminals who do not represent the interests of Ndigbo and Nigerians….”

    The Chairman of the Southeast Governors’ Forum and Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma praised the PISE-P project, even as he expressed concerns about the widespread insecurity situation in the region.

    Ooni, Gani Adams, others proffer solutions

    To address the lingering security situation, not only in the Southwest but also in Nigeria, critical stakeholders in Southwest met at a security summit held at the Ife Grand Resorts, Ojaja Arena of Ile Ife, Osun State,

    No fewer than 200 traditional rulers were in attendance at the summit. Among those who attended the security summit were the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, the Aareonakakanfo of Yoruba land, Gani Adams and other prominent Yoruba Obas. They gathered to proffer solutions to the prevailing security challenges in Yoruba land.

    Oba Adeyeye, who convened the Yoruba Security Summit, said the unity of all the traditional rulers in Yoruba land is crucial to the success of the region.

    Oba Adeyeye also said that the security challenges in Yoruba land can be tackled with measures and approaches that are capable of putting an end to the scourge.

    “We are concerned about the prevailing security challenges in Yoruba land and that is the reason for this security summit. All Yoruba Obas are united on this and I am sure we will salvage the situation in no long time,” he said.

    Gani Adams, one of the keynote speakers said in his address with the theme “Kidnapping and Banditry: Overcoming the Twin Menace and the Yoruba Legacy of African Science, Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow” said he was deeply concerned about the protracted security deficit in the region.

    Adams insisted that his concern formed part of the issues raised during his visit to the palace of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Ogunwusi in January that eventually led to the Yoruba security summit.

    He also stressed the need for cooperation among Southwest monarchs in tackling insecurity in the region, even as he added that Yoruba traditional rulers should mount pressure on the state governors to engage local security groups to succeed in the fight against banditry and kidnapping in all the forests across Yoruba land.

    Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi said it was important for the traditional rulers to protect themselves using the traditional means. He added that it is very important for traditional rulers to protect their subjects.

    The Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III said the best way to solve all the security challenges in Yoruba land is to restructure the country, adding that true federalism would take care of all the security challenges.

    Former Inspector-General of Police, Solomon Arase said there was a need for a proper understanding of the best way to tackle the twin menace of banditry and kidnapping.

    He said anybody who bears arms without proper licensing would bear the consequences under the law.

    Northern leaders offer solution

    For a quick solution to the intractable security crises in the country, Northern leaders have proffered what they called a multi-dimensional approach to tackling insecurity.

    Vice-President, Kashim Shettima restated that ending insecurity remained top on the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Administration’s agenda.

    A former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar said Nigerians must unite to tackle insecurity.

    The leaders spoke at a two-day roundtable on insecurity, with the theme “Multi-dimensional Approach to Tackling Insecurity in Northern Nigeria” organised by the Coalition of Northern Group (CNG).

    Abubakar said: “Investing in education and economic development can address the root causes of insecurity and ultimately foster long-term stability…”

    Shettima, represented by his Chief of Staff, Ibrahim Yusuf Adejia, said providing safety was one critical agenda of the government, hence the increase in budgetary allocation to security.

    A former Minister of Agriculture, Dr Audu Ogbeh warned against the mix-up of the roles of the army and the police.

    He said: “Because of insecurity, the army has to be called in. The army is not the police force. A country that abuses its army by using it as a police force is running a risk; you’re destroying that army. Soldiers are not policemen, and policemen are not soldiers; we are mixing the two up; that’s another danger we have to deal with if we can.”

    Former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof Atahiru Jega said insecurity has been allowed to fester too long, hence the expansion of the activities of the insurgents.

    He believes it was important to adopt a multi-dimensional approach toward tackling insecurity, even as he urged the government to take a very responsive role devoid of politics.

    National Coordinator of CNG, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, called for decisive action, as “speeches alone cannot secure the region.”

    The Director of Publicity and Advocacy/Spokesperson of Northern Elders’ Forum (NEF), Abdul-Azeez Suleiman stressed the significance of bringing together critical stakeholders to address the security challenges that have plagued the region.

    Success stories

     Borno community free of Boko Haram control

    After a meeting with President Bola Tinubu in Abuja, Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum said his state’s security situation had improved by 85 per cent, claiming that no community is under the control of Boko Haram.

    Zulum said security agencies have almost completely rid the state of Boko Haram insurgents.

    He said: “None of the 27 local government areas of Borno State is under the control of insurgents. The security situation in Borno State has improved by more than 85 percent. Economic activities are ongoing perfectly in Borno State.”

    Army: ‘Terrorists have been degraded’

    In apparent corroboration of Zulum’s assertion on improved security situation, the Nigerian Army has said that it has dislodged insurgents from various hideouts in the Northeast and Northwest geopolitical zones and in some areas of Niger State.

    Kevin Aligbe, Commander, Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) of the Nigerian Army in Niger State stated this at the 2023 West African Social Activities (WASA) in Minna, the state capital.

    Aligbe added that the war against insurgency has progressed steadily and effectively in different parts of the country.

    He added that despite these achievements, there were still pockets of insecurity in the country, especially in Niger State, as terrorists have penetrated parts of the state to carry out cruel acts.

    Maj-Gen. Waidi Shuaibu, Theatre Commander of the Joint Task Force, Northeast Operation Hadin Kai also said terrorists operating in Northeast have been degraded and are avoiding confrontation with forces in the field.

    Shuaibu made this known at the opening of Improvised Explosive Device (IED) awareness and detection training for the Civilian Joint Task Force in Maiduguri, Borno State.

    How Nigeria can overcome insecurity, by experts

    The world’s largest association for security professionals, ASIS International said tackling insecurity requires cutting-edge ideas, best practices and latest advancements in technology.

    The Chairman of ASIS, Abuja branch 273, Edward Orim said during the association’s 2023 Annual General Meeting and Awards Night that the chapter was providing a platform for its members and other security stakeholders to produce cutting-edge technology, ideas and best practices with a view to addressing insecurity in Nigeria.

    He described ASIS as an industrial security organisation and open to partnership with government agencies, particularly the office of the National Security Adviser.

    He reiterated ASIS International’s commitment to advancing security professionalism in curbing insecurity through building partnership among leaders, experts, and security professionals in Sub-Saharan Africa.

    At the event, the National Coordinator of Countre- Terrorism Centre, Office of the National Security Adviser, retired Rear Admiral Yaminu Musa said there was need for stronger private sector participation in advancing national security.

    Musa, who spoke on the theme, “Reflecting on 2023: A Retrospective View of Evolving Threats Landscape in Nigeria,” stressed the need for the private sector to embed national security values in their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes.

    Also at a two-day symposium in Abuja on exploring effective strategies for tackling organised crime on the continent,  the Coordinator for the Security, Violence and Conflict (SVC) Research Group at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Prof. Freedom Onuoha said the solution to most of Africa’s internal conflicts is constructive dialogues and not military operations.

    Onuoha said many internal conflicts devastating the Continent could be forestalled with constructive dialogues other than the use of arms,” he said.

  • Sanwo-Olu takes youth empowerment a notch higher

    Sanwo-Olu takes youth empowerment a notch higher

    Impressed by the commitment of Osawere Austin Dayo who serves at King’s College, Lagos to talent discovery and nurturing, the Lagos State Government appointed him as a youth ambassador for the state. Dayo, a graduate of Theatre Arts from the University of Ibadan, became a viral sensation after a video of him dancing with his students at King’s College Lagos. The state Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr Mobolaji Ogunlende, on the instruction of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu appointed Osawere as Lagos State youth ambassador. CHINAKA OKORO reports

    Ancient thinkers and philosophers have posited that one of the best ways to groom future leaders is to give them opportunities to take on new and challenging responsibilities that stretch their skills and potential. This, they say, could be through delegating to them everyday jobs and projects that require them to learn new things, work with different people or deal with complex or ambiguous situations.

    This translates to imbuing in others leadership skills which, in turn, instills in others, probably, young ones the ability to influence and guide followers or members of an organisation, society or team. Leadership often is an attribute tied to a person’s title, seniority or ranking in a hierarchy.

    This may have led leadership experts to postulate that leaders are faced with challenging situations every day because they have to respond to certain challenges of the time, even as they insist that leaders are either proactive or reactive.

    In these circumstances, “a proactive leader anticipates challenges and has a plan for handling them while a reactive leader waits for challenges to arise and then struggles to overcome them. Proactive leaders are big picture thinkers in the sense that they spend the bulk of their time learning from the past and planning for the future, even as they rarely get bogged down in the nitty-gritty of the present.”

    Another of the characteristics of proactive leaders, experts point out, is that “they value their teams and go to great lengths to ensure that they can count on the people around them. They recognise the importance of varying viewpoints and are open to new ideas. They aren’t afraid to ask for help when they need it because they respect the people they’re asking.

    “The most important characteristic of any leader is trust. Proactive leaders trust their teams and, in turn, inspire loyalty. They don’t make promises they can’t keep, and when they make a mistake (which all leaders do), they own it.”

    Another school of thought is of the view that “proactive leadership goes beyond telling people what to do. It’s about effective communication, building consensus, delegation, motivation, and influencing others to reach a common goal.”

    The abovementioned could explain the level of magnanimity displayed by Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu and his Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr Mobolaji Ogunlende recently.

    In an outstanding demonstration of proactive leadership and dedication to youth empowerment, the governor and his commissioner have acknowledged the remarkable contributions of a dedicated member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Osawere Austin Dayo, who serves at King’s College, Lagos.

    The leadership of the state acknowledged Osawere’s activities in King’s College Lagos. Also, the visionary leadership of Governor Sanwo-Olu and the proactive actions by the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development to foster positive change and recognise outstanding youth initiatives were not unnoticed.

    In his verified official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the commissioner said: “I was captivated by the trending video of a passionate corps member, Osawere Austin Dayo, serving at King’s College Lagos. I found myself drawn in by his commitment to nurturing talents despite the constraints of a minimum salary. Osawere went the extra mile to nurture the pupils’ talents through his dance skills, and preparing them for their upcoming inter-house sports programme was commendable.

    “Moved by this online discourse, not only did I find myself drawn in, but also Mr Governor himself. I paid a visit to the college to support Osawere’s passion on the day of their inter-house programme.

    “Observing the pupils enthusiastically partake in the dance alongside Osawere, I couldn’t help but be enveloped by the joy and happiness that permeated the atmosphere. It was evident that Osawere’s influence extended far beyond the dance floor, instilling in these pupils a deep sense of belonging and purpose.

    In light of Osawere’s impact, I am honoured to bestow upon him the title of youth ambassador of the state, emblematic of our administration’s commitment to nurturing positive impact within our communities. This is in addition to the 1 million awarded to him by the KC Alumni as the best [Youth] Corper(sic) of the year…

    “The experience at King’s College was nothing short of inspiring, underscoring the pivotal role of selfless service in shaping a brighter future for our youth. It’s moments like these that reaffirm our commitment as a government to nurturing talent and fostering a culture of excellence.”

    It is noteworthy that despite financial constraints, Osawere’s commitment to nurturing the talents of students at King’s College, Lagos, has been commendable.

    His innovative approach, including engaging students through dance sessions, has garnered widespread attention and appreciation. His dedication not only enhances the students’ physical activities but also boosts their morale and overall well-being; creating a positive learning environment.

    Commissioner’s support and recognition

    Having established a connection as he was impressed by Osawere’s initiative, the commissioner personally attended the inter-house sports programme of King’s College, Lagos where Osawere and the students showcased their talents.

    He immediately named Osawere a Lagos Youth Ambassador. Osaw ere also earned himself a reward of N1 million from the King’s College alumni association.

    Such recognition not only validates Osawere’s efforts but also inspires other youth to actively engage in community development initiatives.

    Osawere meets Sanwo-Olu

     The Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Ogunlende arranged for a meeting between Governor Sanwo-Olu and Osawere. The governor engaged Osawere in a conversation and later directed immediate engagement and support for Osawere’s initiatives. This underscored the governor’s commitment to nurturing youth talents and initiatives. The governor’s interest in Osawere’s work further highlights the importance of recognising and nurturing initiatives at the grassroots.

    Also, in a collaborative effort to integrate Osawere’s talents into the state’s education system, the Lagos Youth Commissioner, acting on Mr. Governor’s directive, facilitated a meeting with the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun.

    Plans on how to leverage Osawere’s innovative approach to enriching educational experiences across Lagos State were discussed.

    The meeting signifies a strategic approach to integrating grassroots initiatives into government policies, aimed at ensuring sustainable development in the education sector.

    Proactive leadership in action

    The recognition and support extended to Osawere exemplify the proactive leadership style of Governor Sanwo-Olu and the Lagos Youth Commissioner.

    By celebrating diligence, rewarding commitment and innovation and championing positivity amid challenges, they are setting a commanding example for the populace and inspiring a culture of excellence and innovation. This proactive approach to youth empowerment not only benefits individuals such as Osawere but also contributes to the overall socio-economic development of Lagos State.

    Read Also:Lagos communities seek Sanwo-Olu’s help to stop sale of ancestral land

    His appointment as youth ambassador

    Impressed by the commitment of Osawere’s commitment to talent discovery and nurturing, the Lagos State Government appointed him as a youth ambassador for the state. Dayo, a graduate of Theatre Arts from the University of Ibadan, became a viral sensation after a video of him dancing with his students at King’s College Lagos, where he is currently serving as his primary place of assignment, went viral.

    The state Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Ogunlende announced Dayo’s appointment via his official X handle.

    “This appointment serves as a beacon of hope and encouragement for young individuals everywhere, demonstrating that passion and dedication can, indeed, be recognised and rewarded, even in the most unexpected ways.

    “Furthermore, it underscores the importance of looking beyond initial perceptions and supporting those who contribute positively to society, regardless of the unconventional paths they might take.

    “As he embarks on his new role as a youth ambassador, his story will continue to inspire those around him, serving as a vivid example of how young individuals can make a difference in their communities,” the commissioner said.

    Expressing his gratitude to the commissioner for the appointment in a response tweet Osawere said: “Thank you very much for coming through for me sir. It was like a dream when I received a call that the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development is coming to see me at King’s College, but the reality hit me when I truly saw him.”

    The acknowledgement of Osawere’s efforts by Governor Sanwo-Olu and his youth commissioner underscores the government’s proactive approach to youth empowerment and talent recognition.

    Through their visionary leadership and decisive actions, they are not only celebrating individual excellence but also fostering an environment conducive to youth development and societal progress.

    Through dance, Osawere has not only enriched the lives of his students but has also become a symbol of youth empowerment.

    His journey from ridicule to respect is a testament to the transformative power of passion, resilience and the impact of recognising and nurturing the potential within every individual.

    The story of Osawere is a compelling reminder of the impact one person can have, inspiring not just the students he directly interacted with but also a broader audience that witnessed his journey from viral mockery to honour.

  • When Owan nation deliberated on peace, development

    When Owan nation deliberated on peace, development

    Recently, those indigenous to the Owan East Local Government Area of Edo State gathered at the expansive Institute of Physical Education (IPE) Hall on Afuze-Auchi Road in Afuze, the headquarters of Owan East Local Government Area. The Owan Conscience, a socio-cultural organisation organised a summit whose theme was “Transcending the Miasma of Ethnic Chauvinism: Towards a People-centred Development in Edo North” to chart a new path for the development of the area. The event also served as a platform to reward those who had contributed to the development of the Owan ethnic nationality. Southsouth Bureau Chief, BISI OLANIYI reports

    On March 9, this year, the Institute of Physical Education (IPE) Hall on Afuze-Auchi Road in Afuze, the headquarters of Owan East Local Government Area of Edo State came alive.

    As early as noon that day, guests had begun to throng the spatial headquarters of the local government.

    There was heavy drumming, singing, trumpeting and breath-taking dance steps by various cultural dancers who thrilled the guests who had seated before the arrival of important dignitaries invited for the occasion.

    It was all glamour and show of opulence, as a substantial number of guests had gathered at Afuze.

    The weather was calm as the sun shone brightly out of the azure sky. The spacious hall was largely suffused with different beautifully coloured traditional dancers who entertained the people. Gaily dressed Owan women known for their panache and active social lifestyle were a marvel to behold. The men equally in their beautiful traditional attire swirled to the suiting rhythm of drums and other musical instruments in that somewhat balmy afternoon. It was a gathering of who is who in Owan land and Edo State.

    Those indigenous to Owan West and Owan East local government areas, their eminent friends and associates, came together at the maiden Owan Summit which was organised by Owan Conscience whose theme was “Transcending the Miasma of Ethnic Chauvinism: Towards a People-centred Development in Edo North.”

    The easiest and much shorter route to Afuze is through the strategic Benin-Ekpoma-Auchi-Abuja Expressway. Currently, the thruway has become deplorable; with craters in the middle of the hitherto-busy road. Drivers of articulated vehicles and other motorists, as well as commuters now spend weeks, instead of hours before reaching their destinations, even as the residents of the areas volunteer to cook for the stranded road users, who are mostly travelling towards the North.

    Despite the expressway being in a deplorable state, people must necessarily embark on trips. To achieve this, motorists and commuters find alternative routes to make their journeys somewhat easy.

    This time around, the alternative route to Afuze is the narrow, dangerous, accident-prone, deplorable, but manageable Benin-Sobe-Ifon-Akure Highway that is a haven for kidnappers/robbers.

    Travellers from Benin will, from Ifon in Ondo State, link Sabongidda-Ora, the headquarters of Owan West Local Government Area of Edo, and then pass through Ojavun-Emai in Owan East Local Government Area, as well as some of the other Emai communities, before getting to Afuze. This gives rise to an elongated and stressful journey.

    Owan is one of the five major ethnic groups in Edo State, with the others being Bini, Esan, Akoko-Edo and Etsako.

    Owan, with 22 political wards (each local government area has 11 wards), is located in the northern part of Edo State, and one of the three federal constituencies that make up Edo North Senatorial District.

    The area has 13 clans, with nine in Owan East, while Owan West has four. There are 50 autonomous communities in Owan, with over 20 camp settlements.

    Owan occupies a landmass of about 2,160 square kilometres and it is bounded in the North by Akoko-Edo LGA, in the East by Etsako West LGA, in the South by Esan West, Esan Central and Uhunmwonde LGAs, and in the West by Ovia Northeast LGA of Edo and Osse LGA of Ondo State.

    The area has a tropical climate, characterised by the wet and dry seasons, with a population of 251,686; according to the 2006 census of the National Population Commission (NPC), while the 2011 estimation put the population at 390,350.

    Owan, as an ethnic group, is not a unified linguistic entity, as it is a conglomeration of various, but similar dialects. There are no fewer than 18 dialects spoken within Owan communities.

    Owan Conscience is a socio-cultural organisation established by patriotic Owan sons and daughters who are zealous about the growth and development of Owan; to give it a proper placing in the political and economic space of Edo State and Nigeria. Its mission spans development, security, politics and empowerment.

    Owan Conscience ensures that the harmony and refined social relationships among the various communities in Owan are sustained; advances the development of every community in Owan as emerging modern towns and villages; intervenes and ensures that development inflow retains/sustains the environmental sanity of the various communities in Owan land.

    The organisation aims to deploy advocacy and legal options in defence of Owan people and their communities against infractions that affect their environmental and social well-being; bring coordinated economic development to the people through programmes that enhance small-scale economic initiatives and rural economic development; and strengthen the moral content of the younger generation of Owan land, while ensuring their commitment to academic development and exploits.

    The Organisation is poised to ensure that the elected representatives from the area are not disconnected from the Owan community, especially in their various constituencies; identify areas of needed infrastructure and draw the government’s attention to such imperatives; and organise award-driven competitions such as quizzes, debate and essay-writing for Owan youths.

    Fourteen illustrious individuals who are indigenous to the Owan Clan, including four posthumous, were honoured at the colourful and carnival-like summit. The awards were in recognition of their contributions to the development of the area. Those who were presented with the awards included a former Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Solomon Arase (from Owan West LGA) and the member representing Owan Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, who is also the Leader of the House, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere (also from Owan West LGA).

    Other individuals who were honoured are Senator Yisa Braimoh, Maj.-Gen. Joseph Omozogie, Pally Iriase, Patrick Giwa, Dr. Ernest Afolabi Umakhihe, Justus Aikhoje, Julius Ikoghode and Greg Uanseru.

    Those who were honoured posthumously included the Oleije of Emai, His Royal Highness (HRH) J.A. Ogedengbe II; Okumagbe of Luleha, HRH Timothy Omo-Bare; Alhaji (Chief) Inu Umoru and Chief J.A. Aigbokhaode. All the recipients of the awards were presented with certificates and plaques.

    Ihonvbere described the Owan people as dedicated, resilient, hardworking, peace-loving, conscious and warm, with great abilities and undiluted commitment to the growth of their ethnic nationality.

    The Leader of the House of Representatives urged Owan people to rise against primordial, petty or political sentiments and recommit themselves to their communal existence, rebuild their strength, resources and opportunities to mentor the youth population, since there lay the Owan nation’s strength, even as he declared that the journey would not be easy, given betrayals and political opportunists that would twist the goals and comments to find favour elsewhere.

    Arase, the Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC) assured  that he was committed to leveraging his close ties to the authorities to promote the interests of the Owan people. He was optimistic that there were brighter days ahead.

    A former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Rev. Peter Obadan, who hails from Owan West LGA, equally urged the Owan people to imbibe the love and oneness bequeathed to them by their forebears for the Owan nation to be great again.

    The Chairman of the Planning Committee of the Owan Summit, Richard Ofen-Imu, a lawyer, in his welcome address, said that Owan Conscience was a response initiative that focuses on identifying basic anti-development obstacles confronting the Owan people and resolving the contradictions in the best interest of the senatorial district.

    Ofen-Imu, a former Chairman of Owan West Local Government Council, said: “Critical to the present challenges of the Owan people is a process of denigration integrated into a philosophy of alienation. It is about a deliberate design to enthrone an inferiority complex in the psyche of the Owan personality. It is a response to the compass of derogation, inferiority, subjugation and alienation foisted on our people and community.

    “As patriots and objects of holistic development, we will be undermining the development of our country, when we permit or tolerate ethnic chauvinism that eliminates the best brains and hands of our small geographical compass in harnessing the potential of our country.”

    Read Also: Edo Speaker at Owan summit: Avoid pull-him-down syndrome

    He also stated that beyond the provocation rendered by the ideological contraption, Owan Conscience focuses on making responsible and responsive leadership the hub of the cultural nexus.

    The Chairman of the occasion, Justice Rowland Amaize, a retired Judge of Edo High Court, insisted that Owan ethnic nationality could not be undermined in any circumstance in Nigeria.

    Amaize also described Owan as a viable land that must be reckoned with in Nigeria, even as he stated that the ethnic nationality could not afford to lag. He insisted that the people must eschew primordial considerations in order not to undermine the youth.

    The Keynote Speaker, Prof. Monday Igbafen of Edo State government-owned Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma noted that the theme of the summit was apt, given the renewed awareness and agitation for fairness and equity in the sharing of political power among Etsako, Owan and Akoko-Edo, the three sub-ethnic groups that makeup Edo North Senatorial District.

    Igbafen, a Professor of Philosophy, who is the Benin Zonal Coordinator of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) also pointed out that the summit was germane, against the backdrop of a growing sense of ethnic dominance, marginalisation, relegation and alienation in Edo North Senatorial District by one sub-ethnic group against others.

    He said “Politics in sane climes is the bedrock of transformation and development of society, either in economics, politics, morality, material, freedom, justice, equality or security.

    “I commend and congratulate Owan Conscience on blazing the trail in bringing quality sons and daughters of Owan together to engage and interrogate the all-important issue of ethnicity vis-à-vis collective progress and development in Edo North.

    “The problems associated with ethnicity are not Edo North specifically. They are Nigerian problems, as they are global, especially because Nigeria has more than 300 ethnic nationalities.

    “The summit desires to chart a new roadmap for assured Owan’s identity and recognition in the socio-political matrix of Edo North, now and in the future.”

  • Addressing public fraud with effective internal audit

    Addressing public fraud with effective internal audit

    PwC’s 2023 global internal audit study has highlighted the need for companies to rethink their strategy to make them commercially viable in 10 years. This is due to increasing trends in abuse. The United Kingdom’s Chartered Institute of Internal Auditors has warned companies to be more vigilant about the risk of fraud. This has led to rapid changes in business models and processes. At the local level, the Lagos State Government is taking steps to change and evolve internal audit functions, leveraging technology to respond to business challenges. DANIEL ESSIET reports.

    The global problems facing public sector organisations are many. They include government failure, inefficiency, fraud and corruption. When they occur, the consequences on reputation are colossal.

      To this end, the PwC’s 2023 Global Internal Audit Study highlighted the need for companies to rethink their strategy if they want to be financially viable in the next 10 years. Also, the Caseware’s 2024 State of Internal Audit Trends Report stated that the top opportunities and obstacles facing internal audit departments include recruiting and retaining qualified internal auditors, transitioning from manual to digital auditing and environmental and social growth and governance (ESG) reporting.

    As the scope and complexity of fraud and embezzlement changes, experts noted that it had become critical for internal audit professionals to acquire skills to manage complex financial interactions in a way that ensures internal security, including internal audit, risk management and compliance.

    One approach to preventing corrupt practices is to strengthen the role of internal audit institutions. The objective is to control activities, protect assets, provide good financial reporting, increase efficiency and effectiveness and improve early detection of irregularities using audit technology.

    Globally, internal auditors are empowered to carry out monitoring through audits, reviews and evaluation in the management of government tasks and functions. In 2020, internal auditors confirmed that the Commonwealth Secretariat as implementing the six recommendations raised in the recent audit into historical waivers and declarations.

    KPMG also confirmed that the Commonwealth Secretariat’s procurement policies and procedures meet established industry practice. Its Secretary-General Patricia Scotland said: “The Secretariat complies fully with all our independent, internal and external audits. We have worked diligently to implement the recommendations of our internal auditors at the earliest opportunity.  

    “We trust that Commonwealth Fund for Technical Co-operation (CFTC) funding will be released as soon as possible so that we can continue delivering vital work on behalf of our member states.’’

    In Lagos State, auditors have been challenged to improve their productivity. This was at the just-concluded 16th Annual Internal Auditors’ Retreat in Lagos on “Internal Audit: Control for Good Governance”.

    True, a storm of technological advances, increased financial management expectations and cultural behavioural changes are accelerating the pace at which accounting firms are being forced to assume greater responsibility for combating fraud in the companies they audit.

    To survive and thrive in the new landscape where opportunities and threats are emerging at a fast pace, the Lagos Head of Service (HOS), Mr. Bode Agoro, charged the heads of internal audits in the state Public Service to adopt the principles of good governance, accountability and transparency to improve their institutions.

    He noted: “As civil servants, you will agree with me that we are the face of government and as implementers of government policies programmes and projects effective control for good governance should begin with us. Against this background, it’s very important to portray ourselves widely as ambassadors in dealing with the public having provision of effective Service delivery, which is key.’’

    Stressing that the state government has invested in improving audit quality, the HoS also emphasised the role of internal auditors in safeguarding the business climate and implementing best practices to reduce fraud risks.

    He informed that a total of 405 internal auditors were engaged by the Lagos State government, to ensure that ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) comply with the highest ethical standards, probity and accountability in their dealings.

    As part of its focus to promote innovation within the internal audit role, he said the government had been preparing the next generation of auditors to help the state achieve its economic goals.

    Commissioner 11 (Education), Abiodun Bamgboye, noted that the role of auditors makes them watchdogs essential to the growth and development of their MDAs.

    However, he added that the business of internal audit was in the midst of transiting and increasingly relying on cutting-edge technologies.

    Although the auditing industry is not the first where people think about digitalisation, the sector needed to transform and that people realised that the moment is now. For him, technology has been an accelerator as practitioners partner software providers to automate the auditing processes.

    He reminded the practitioners of their responsibility to ensure the integrity of the financial statements emerging from the various ministries. This is because there had been tension about whether practitioners were compromising or not. It seems a bit of both.

    According to him, there is as much concern about public perception as technology and that internal auditors could go much further than they are.

    While the technological transformation of internal audit practice is accelerating, he noted that contemporary assessments of auditors, based on accounting principles, is particularly critical, reminding them that integrity is a virtue for a professional.

    Noting that internal audit has come a long way, he added that there would be restraints to that progress, based on the limitations of the profession.

    For him, the strategy is the intersection between public need and value and integrity.

    He explained the expectations of duties require that auditors detect and report not only wrongdoing that affects the accuracy of financial statements, but also behaviours that could put the government at risk.

    Following efforts to reform audit and corporate governance, he explained that the Lagos State government had been prioritising internal auditors’ training, driven by heightened expectations on revisions of auditing standards.

    Irrespective of the technology, he said auditors need to be fully aware of how fraud could be perpetrated and to really understand the systems and processes.This is in addition to tightening risk assessments and processes, governance, professional education and audit methodologies.

    He noted that internal audit is important to sound governance and accountability where public sector institutions could rely on internal audits to provide oversight and assurance over operations, service delivery, and efficient use of public funds.

    A former Lagos State Auditor-General, Mrs Modupe Akinwolemiwa, stated that good governance and auditing have a close relationship, as any system without checks and balances could not stand. With the growing importance of corporate governance, she indicated that internal auditors are expected to provide assurance on the effectiveness of the organisation’s governance processes and to make recommendations for improvement.

    According to her, the business of internal audit has changed. She indicated that the skill sets an auditor needs to be successful in future are elevated compared to what they used to be. She described internal auditors as the fault finders/watchdog in the organisation, adding that they play a critical role in helping the public measure government performance.

    Read Also: Tension as Senate meets over N3tr alleged padding of 2024 budget on Tuesday

    One element of good governance that has become a concern, according to her, is accountability. An indicator of increased accountability, she noted, was the number of findings by the internal audits to assess the balance of government financial statements in terms of internal control and compliance with laws and regulations.

    Also,the Permanent Secretary(PS), Lagos State Office of Internal Audit, Mrs Kikelomo Arinonla Dawodu, said the government had been supporting good governance and capacity development.

    In line with this, efforts were ongoing to strengthen capacity development of internal auditors  to ensure that funds were used effectively, with economy, and for the intended purposes.

    Mrs Dawodu said the professionals have a responsibility to establish a culture of integrity and ensure consistency and transparency that is vital for the state economy to grow.

    Her words: “As auditors within the employ of the state government, we bear a profound responsibility. Our role transcends mere compliance; it embodies a commitment to ensuring transparency, accountability, and, ultimately, good governance. In a world where public trust is paramount, our work serves as a cornerstone in upholding the integrity of our institutions.

    ‘‘Today, we converge to explore and deliberate on the integral role that internal audit plays as a control mechanism for fostering good governance.The theme of the retreat underscores the pivotal role internal audit plays in fostering good governance. It emphasises the symbiotic relationship between effective controls and the realisation of public trust. Indeed, control is not merely a mechanism for enforcement, but a catalyst for ethical conduct and organisational excellence.

    “In our pursuit of good governance, we must recognise that control extends far beyond financial matters. While fiscal oversight remains essential, our mandate encompasses broader domains, including operational efficiency, risk management, and compliance with regulatory frameworks.’’

    She  stressed that internal audit could provide significant value to an organisation by helping to identify and mitigate risks, improving efficiency and effectiveness of operations, and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations.

    The PS said the Lagos State Government has developed a very strong and robust accountability framework for its programmes. She also said the Office undertakes timely verification of its financial system and provides insights into the quality of financial management so that corrective action could be taken. 

    In Nigeria, the internal audit function has come a long way and has undergone significant development in recent years. In the past, internal audit was mostly confined to compliance-based activities and was often viewed as a cost-centre. With the increasing complexity of business operations and the emergence of new risks, however, the role of internal audit in Nigeria has evolved to become more strategic. Internal auditors are expected to provide valuable insights and recommendations to management on how to improve the organisation’s performance and achieve its goals.

    According to KPMG’s Technology internal audit: 2022 and beyond, internal auditors are facing what is akin to a storm— unprecedented technological advances are unfolding at an ever-increasing pace; board and audit committee members who have become more knowledgeable about technology and are demanding more insights and expertise from their internal audit teams and a shortage of professionals with the skills needed to tackle emerging and evolving risks.

    To be effective, the report indicated that technology-based internal auditors must establish credibility with business leaders by being able to demonstrate their skills, knowledge, and ability to meet these heightened expectations.

    Without that credibility and stakeholder trust, it would be difficult—if not impossible—for the technology internal audit to rise to these new challenges required by the business.

  • Tackling women’s inequality through investment

    Tackling women’s inequality through investment

    Today, the world, through International Women’s Day (IWD) calls on governments, Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs), Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), groups and individuals to ‘Invest in Women” to “Accelerate Progress.” In today’s dynamic financial landscape, investing in women is not just a socially responsible choice; it’s a strategic move that propels progress and economic growth. In this report, CHINYERE OKOROAFOR looks at how channelling resources into female-led initiatives, businesses and education has the potential to unlock unprecedented opportunities and create a more inclusive and prosperous future for women in Nigeria.

    The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and founder of Active Foods Limited; a food production and distribution company, Mrs Yetunde Adeyemi’s story begins with the unwavering support of her father, who defied societal expectations by nurturing young Yetunde’s entrepreneurial aspirations.

    At the tender age of nine, she embarked on her first venture, crafting caramel candy called econogu. With creativity and determination, she sold her sweet treats to classmates, already displaying her innate potential as a future business leader.

    Adeyemi’s story inspires not only aspiring entrepreneurs but also challenges societal norms, proving that with determination, right support, mentorship and microloan, women can lead successful businesses and contribute to economic growth and development.

    Her success story stands as a demonstration of perseverance, challenge to societal norms and the transformative power of supporting women in business. Adeyemi’s journey, supported by initiatives such as the World Bank’s Nigeria Women Entrepreneurs Finance Initiative, showcases the potential for economic growth and empowerment inherent in women when they are provided with resources and support.

    Significance of the IWD theme

    Women’s empowerment equips and allows women to make life-determining decisions through the different societal problems. They may have the opportunity to redefine gender roles or other such roles, which allow them more freedom to pursue desired goals.

    “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,” as the theme of the event underscores the ongoing commitment to advancing gender equality and empowering women globally.

    The significance of the Day, experts say, lies in its ability to bring attention to issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and violence and abuse against women. It provides a platform for collective action and collaboration in advocating for women’s rights and empowerment.

    The Day also presents an opportunity to celebrate the progress made towards achieving gender equality and women’s empowerment and also to critically reflect on those accomplishments and strive for a greater momentum towards gender equality.

    Government’s commitment to women’s, girls’ rights

    Adeyemi’s sparkling success story is in line with the Federal Government’s commitment to enhancing women’s and girls’ rights and empowerment.

    Addressing women during a stakeholders’ media briefing ahead of this year’s International Women’s Day, the Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs Uju-Kennedy Ohanenye encouraged women to always demand their deserved rights in society.

    She noted that her duty as the Minister of Women Affairs was to safeguard the rights and interests of women and children nationwide, even as she highlighted the pivotal role of women in fostering peace and national security.

    Mrs. Ohanenye noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to supporting the welfare of women and children, particularly in empowerment endeavours.

    “We have the backing of Mr President. Let’s use the opportunity to fight for our course peacefully like mothers that we are to get things right for ourselves, especially monies coming in for women,” the minister said.

    The UN Country Representative in Nigeria, Ms. Beatrice Eyong, reiterated the organisation’s dedication to collaborating with the government in advancing inclusive economic policies for women.

    “As the United Nations women, we commit to continue to support inclusive economic policies and programmes that can credibly deliver positive objectives that tackle the underlying obstacles to economic stability and growth. Realising women’s rights is not only a moral imperative, but also a smart economic investment,” she said.

    Representative of Save the Children, Amanuel Mamo noted that social protection interventions could serve as a means to empower women and girls, reducing inequities and ensuring access to opportunities that will transform their present and future.

    He said: “Investing in women and girls through social assistance programmes would provide access to food, healthcare, clothing and shelter. For girls, improving access to social protection interventions that enable enrolment and retention in schools also reduce the risks of abuse, child labour and early marriage as easy means of overcoming poverty.”

    A Girl Champion from Save the Children, Madina Abdulkadir urged the government to create a safe environment by addressing issues such as armed conflict, climate change, gender-based violence and cultural norms that hinder girls’ access to their rights and hinder their full potential in today’s society.

    Investing in women accelerates progress

     The focus of this year’s theme of IWD is addressing economic disempowerment, even as its campaign theme highlights the significance of diversity and empowerment across all strata of society.

    The Day presents a global event dedicated to acknowledging the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women; serving as a platform to raise awareness about issues of gender equality, even as it advocates for progress toward a more equitable world.

    It is against this background that the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, in his message for this year’s event titled “Invest in Women: Ending the Patriarchy Requires Money on the Table” noted that “the fight for women’s rights over the past 50 years is a story of progress.”

    On the achievements of women and girls, the number one global civil servant said: “Women and girls have demolished barriers, dismantled stereotypes and driven progress towards a more just and equal world. Women’s rights were finally recognised as fundamental and universal human rights. Hundreds of millions more girls are in classrooms around the world. And pioneering leaders have smashed glass ceilings across the globe.”

    He, however, regretted that there are more hurdles to cross in the journey for total freedom and emancipation for the women folk as he said that but progress is under threat. And full equality remains light years away. On some of these hurdles, Guterres noted that: “Billions of women and girls face marginalisation, injustice and discrimination, as millennia of male domination continue to shape societies. The persistent epidemic of gender-based violence disgraces humanity. Over four million girls are estimated to be at risk of female genital mutilation each year. Discrimination against women and girls remains perfectly legal in much of the world. In some places, that make it difficult for women to own property, in others, it allows men to rape their wives with impunity.

    “Meanwhile, global crises are hitting women and girls hardest. Wherever there’s conflict, climate disaster, poverty or hunger, women and girls suffer most. In every region of the world, more women than men go hungry. In both developed and developing countries, a backlash against women’s rights, including their sexual and reproductive rights, is stalling and even reversing progress…

    “At the moment, full legal equality for women is some 300 years away; so is the end of child marriage. This rate of change is frankly insulting. Half of humanity can’t wait centuries for their rights. That means accelerating the pace of progress. And that relies on political ambition, and on investment–the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day.”

    In line with this year’s theme, Guterres emphasised that “we need public and private investment in programmes to end violence against women, ensure decent work, and drive women’s inclusion and leadership in digital technologies, peacebuilding, climate action, and across all sectors of the economy. We must also urgently support women’s rights organisations fighting against stereotypes, battling to make women’s and girls’ voices heard, and challenging traditions and cultural norms.

    “Securing the investment we need in women and girls requires three things. First, increasing the availability of affordable, long-term finance for sustainable development, and tackling the debt crisis strangling many developing economies. Otherwise, countries simply won’t have the funds to invest in women and girls.

    Read Also: IWD: AHF Nigeria tasks stakeholders on equitable, inclusive world for women

    “Second, countries must prioritise equality for women and girls– recognising that equality is not only a matter of rights but the bedrock of peaceful, prosperous societies. That means governments actively addressing discrimination, spending on programmes to support women and girls, and ensuring policies, budgets and investments respond to their needs.

    “Third, we need to increase the number of women in leadership positions. Having women in positions of power can help to drive investment in policies and programmes that respond to women and girls realities.”

    In the same manner, the Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Social and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), Ms Audrey Azoulay, in a message to commemorate this year’s event said “Gender equality is a simple idea. It is the conviction that women deserve the same rights, opportunities and knowledge as men. It is the belief that women have just as much to contribute to society – and to addressing societal issues. It is the commitment to breaking down barriers that have held women back for far too long.

    “Gender equality is proving difficult to achieve. Today, no country in the world can claim to be gender equal.  At our current pace,  it will take almost  300  years for all countries to be able to do so.  “The climate crisis will push an estimated  160  million women into poverty by 2050. To break down the barriers facing women, UNESCO has made gender equality a global priority for its action.

    “We acknowledge the invaluable contributions made by women scientists, artists, journalists, educators and athletes. We work to ensure all women and girls are given the opportunities they deserve. This year, we use the event to raise awareness of the need to invest in women to accelerate progress. This means developing, financing and implementing transformative solutions to advance gender equality and sustainability in the face of cascading global concerns and crises…”

    Benefits of women’s rights and empowerment

    A more inclusive approach to economic and social development, with a focus on women, contributes to overall national prosperity. By leveraging the talents and skills of the entire population, Nigeria can tap into previously untapped potential, leading to a more robust and resilient economy.

    Also, channelling resources into female-led initiatives, businesses and education in Nigeria is not just a matter of gender equality; it’s a strategic investment in the country’s future. By unlocking the potential of women, Nigeria can create a more inclusive, prosperous and resilient country, where the contributions of all citizens are recognised and valued.

    Expectations from government

     As the world celebrates International Women’s Day today, Nigeria is expected to put in place policies and programmes that would enhance women’s and girls’ rights and empowerment. This can be achieved through ensuring gender-sensitive education, changing attitudes toward girls and women, and increasing the representation of women in political office will go a long way to achieving gender equality. Ultimately, long-term commitments with sustained efforts can eradicate gender inequality. Protecting women against violence, through laws against domestic violence and sexual harassment at work or in educational facilities, remains an area where much work is needed.

  • Tracking Nigeria’s response to HIV in children

    Tracking Nigeria’s response to HIV in children

    Pediatric Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection is one of the major public health crises prevalent among infants and children in Nigeria. ALAO ABIODUN reports how these targeted populations have been left behind despite the Federal Government’s scaled-up response targeted at preventing and eradicating the deadly virus.

    Human Immuno-deficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) among infants and children in Nigeria remains a public health challenge. Stakeholders believe that little has been done to support the children in terms of medical care as well as treatment of the infected children.

    The epidemic influences child survival directly through Mother-to-Child Transmission (MTCT) and indirectly, through diverting resources and attention away from children to the care and treatment of a sick parent.

    In 2020, 140,000 adolescents and 97,000 children in Nigeria lived with HIV. Per 1,000 uninfected populations, the HIV incidence rate among children aged 14 years was 0.65. In 2020, Nigeria recorded the highest global rate of children infected with HIV through their mothers.

    The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) revealed that 20,695 children in Nigeria between the ages of 0 and 9 were infected with HIV in 2020.

    This is despite an increased number of states providing services to prevent mother-to-child transmission. The high rate of MTCT in Nigeria highlights major gaps in HIV testing. This allows HIV infections to go untreated and the virus to spread.

    So far, a series of interventions led by some organisations have been initiated to support the implementation of global and national strategies in HIV response. These organisations are contributing and driving the lead in the HIV/AIDS response in Nigeria.

    However, stigma and discrimination are considered major problems for people living with HIV/AIDS globally. Despite the existence of the HIV/AIDS (Anti-discrimination) Act of 2014, people living with HIV still experience stigma, hostility, denial of gainful employment, forced resignation or retirement, delivery of poor quality treatment and segregation in hospital wards.

    The journey so far

    At a recent media briefing organised by the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Foundation (EGPAF) with the theme: “Now is the time: fighting pediatric HIV through strategic partnership,” experts agreed that the fight against pediatric HIV can be won.

    Panelists included the representative from the National AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, and STIs Control Programme (NASCP), Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH) Dr. Peter Nwaokenneya; Consultant, University of Port Harcourt, Prof. Rosemary Ugwu; National Coordinator, APYIN, Aaron Sunday; Country Manager, EGPAF Nigeria, Nguavese Torbunde.

    The briefing was aimed at strengthening the reporting of pediatric HIV and addressing the journey and progress toward an AIDS-free generation.

    The gathering was also an opportunity to reflect on the progress made to date, raise awareness about the challenges that remain to achieve the goals of ending pediatric AIDS and mobilise all stakeholders to jointly re-double efforts to ensure the success of the HIV response, especially pediatric HIV.

    They agreed that strategic collaboration among stakeholders remains a pathway to close the gap in the treatment of HIV among children and enable Nigeria to win the fight against pediatric HIV infection.

    The event also featured an interactive panel discussion, followed by a question-and-answer session.

    So far, EGPAF Nigeria has implemented the following projects: Early Infant Diagnosis (EID) Optimisation, Delivering Technical Assistance 2 (DELTA2) to Accelerate Progress in PMTCT and Pediatric HIV (AP3), and the Pediatric Breakthrough Partnership aimed at improving access to evidence-based innovations through contextually responsive and sustainable approaches in efforts to end pediatric AIDS.

    Although there has been remarkable progress in the diagnosis and initiation of antiretroviral therapy in Nigeria, the country is still far from ending new HIV infections in children with a huge disparity in the treatment coverage of children (32 per cent) when compared with adults (94 per cent).

    In eradicating HIV among infants and children, EGPAF Nigeria, launched in July 2022, has remained at the vanguard of addressing the unique challenges faced by adolescents living with HIV in priority locations by developing a sustainable and replicable quality package of interventions.

    With its headquarters in Washington DC, U.S, the foundation has implemented similar interventions in several countries in sub-Saharan Africa, including Cote d’Ivoire, Nigeria, DRC, Mozambique, Malawi, Lesotho, Uganda, Ethiopia, Angola, Rwanda, Botswana, South Africa, India and other parts of Asia with tremendous success; with support from ministries of health, health care workers, local staff and others.

    The foundation provides technical support for stakeholders on HIV response for children, adolescents and expectant mothers, to develop sustainable quality interventions. It has implemented and scaled up innovative models to improve access to early infant diagnosis (EID), HIV testing and counselling, strengthening the capacity in pediatric HIV and advocating for children and families living with HIV.

    Torbunde said: “Advocacy for children and women infected with AIDS is one of EGPAF Nigeria’s focus areas, working closely with implementing partners to achieve its interventions.

    “Working mainly in Nigeria as technical assistants, we work with treatment partners and support what they are doing. We worked at Rivers, Delta, Benue, Lagos and Delta States for the DELTA 2 project, and we worked with different partners. A lot of interventions have been done in Nigeria; we equip implementing partners to also take up a project. Once prevalence has significantly reduced, we sometimes move out too.

    “We’ve had a collaboration with the Ministry of Health in Nigeria over the years, but our presence in Nigeria has settled two years ago when we finally decided to set up our office in the country.

    “We’ve treatment partners that have worked with us in various projects. These treatment partners have a bigger chunk of the work. Our foundation only provided technical assistance by expanding the work, and also closing the gaps on areas of challenges identified. We started in Rivers and Taraba, and we have expanded to other states so that the work we are doing can be amplified.

    Torbunde also said the foundation has its works and research in the area of Tuberculosis, especially with diagnosis of TB in children, research around HIV among children and adolescents.

    “That is why EGPAF has been very strategic in what we are doing—our strategy is to hone innovations to close the gaps that the other existing programmes are struggling with, specifically in pediatric HIV case identification and improving treatment outcomes. EGPAF has implemented pediatric and adolescent services in many countries,” Torbunde said

    The EGPAF Nigeria Country Manager further stated that through the Breakthrough Project, funded by ViiV Healthcare Positive Action, the foundation supports innovations to improve case identification and retention in care among children and adolescents. This involves, among other things, place trained pediatric case managers in health facilities to steer pediatric HIV services.

    “In the adult population, it’s looking that way already, but in the pediatric population, we need to put in more effort, especially on mother-to-child transmission. We have 21,000 new pediatric infections every year due to gaps in the prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission programmes,” Torbunde explainhed.

    Leaving no child behind

    Children and adolescents have been left behind in the HIV response around the world. In Nigeria, teenage girls also bear the heaviest burden. Stakeholders believe that the campaign should ensure that children are born free of HIV and stay HIV-free throughout childhood and adolescence.

    The National Coordinator of NASCP, Dr. Adebobola Bashorun, said Nigeria recorded a reduction in HIV prevalence from 5.8 in 2001 to 1.3 in 2018 following interventions by the government, donors and partners.

    The Deputy Director of Treatment Care and Support at NASCP, Dr. Peter Nwaokenneya, who represented Bashorun, said there was a 0.2 per cent reduction in HIV in children, adding, however, that despite all the successes recorded, children seem to lag.

    He said that the Federal Government is committed to bridging the gaps in HIV services between the adult and child populations.

    Dr. Torbunde explained that improved efforts to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV, early detection and access to anti-retroviral therapy would substantially reduce HIV transmission to children.

    Dr. Torbunde also called for strategic collaboration to win Nigeria’s fight against pediatric human immunode­ficiency virus (HIV).

    “When we say children are left behind,” Dr. Torbunde said, “the area of treatment coverage for children shows they are left behind. They are not getting enough treatment as compared to adults. We’ve seen virus suppression for children also improve over time. The drugs have managed to reduce the detection of viruses in children. In the adult population, the rate is good. With the introduction of a drug that came on board, we’ve seen a rapid increase in viral suppression rate for children.”

    Dr. Nwaokenneya said: “Following the sensitisation by development partners and some agencies, the prevalence rate has reduced, especially the HIV rate among children reduced to 0.2 per cent in 2018. With our numerous interventions, we are working towards bridging the gap between the adult and children populations infected with HIV.”

    For Prof. Ugwu, “Pediatric HIV has gone through a long way. Children have been left behind. For so many years, there have been no drugs, but when the drugs finally came, it was for adults. The adults get drugs, but the children do not get medication. They were dying.

    “We took those adult drugs and mixed them with syrups for children, and they survived after taking some of these drugs. Many times, the drugs were difficult to administer to the children. For Nigeria, we are doing quite a lot, but some efforts need to be put in place in the fight against pediatric HIV.

    “Through your support, the country has made numerous improvements, especially reducing HIV prevalence from 1.8 AIDS prevalence to 1.3 prevalence as of 2018. The tremendous work EGPAF and other development partners are doing has sustained the fight.”

    She, however, said despite the success recorded so far, “The children seem to be left behind in the fight against pediatric HIV. We, as a country, are redirecting our strategies towards bridging the gap as we work towards ending AIDS by 2030.”

    Using family centre care as a strategy

    The introduction of the family centre care approach reflects the country’s recognition of the significant role driving the much-needed goals and targets for ending HIV/AIDS by 2030.

    These centres play a significant role, particularly in hard-to-reach areas where access to modern healthcare services is limited and where the barriers of inequalities and the experiences of stigma and discrimination constrain access and uptake of HIV/TB and related health services.

    Prof. Ugwu said: “Promoting family-centred care is of great benefit. HIV impacts a lot on a family. If we’ve to provide adequate care and support, it has to be from the family. Children can’t come to the hospital by themselves; we’ve to carry the family along, especially expectant mothers, during delivery and breastfeeding.

    “Family-centred care provides early diagnosis of HIV in women and children, enhances treatment and also helps children when they are identified to be retained in care. It is aimed at targeting mother-to-child transmission. When women are infected, the family centre care will provide proper guidance.

    She added that family centre care provides  maternal and child health care and also expands on other health care benefits, especially tuberculosis. Her words: “Even children present for other cases, should be tested for other infections. When adults are diagnosed, the children should also be tested. The family centre provides psychological and clinical care, especially providing support in the area of identification, treatment and virus suppression.

    “A well-functional health system that ensures quality service delivery, availability of HIV commodities, skilled healthcare providers and adequate funding, is critical to achieving the desired impact of PMTCT programmes 10–12. The importance of robust health systems has been demonstrated in various countries.”

    Ending AIDS in children: how possible?

    Prof. Ugwu stressed that pediatric HIV is preventable. She discussed the evolution of pediatric HIV drugs and challenges as well as highlighted the convenience of fixed drug combinations.

    Ugwu said initially there were drugs for adult HIV but none for chil­dren, adding that with high mortality among children, clinicians decided to try mixing adult drugs with syrup for children.

    Over the years, with research and partnerships, first-line and other sub­sequent-line drugs and treatment reg­imens became available for children with HIV in the country, she noted.

    Read Also: Time has preserved Awo’s principles, legacies – Tinubu

    Dr. Nwokenneya said: “We need more commitment from the government and development partners by increasing interventions including treatment for children. Adults have a lot to do in eradicating AIDS among children. Many adults depend on their caregivers. It is possible to end AIDS.

    Prof. Ugwu said: “For me, Pediatric HIV can be eliminated and it is preventable. If we do not have any men or women with HIV, then it is possible. We should work towards it.

    Aaron could not agree less. “Yes we can end pediatric HIV by closing the tab so that we don’t continue to have young children getting infected,” he said.

    Similarly, Dr. Avese said: “It is possible to end AIDS in children rather than in adults because if 90 per cent of the infections are coming from mother-to-child-transmission, then we can close that gap, then that session ends. Once children become 18, they become adults, if we close the leaking tap, then we can graduate those in that category with AIDS, hale and hearty.”

    Efforts on global alliance to end AIDS

    Global alliance to end AIDS is a priority. Healthcare for children living with AIDS in Nigeria when compared with the global standards as well as the roles of the health providers, has posed a series of questions.

    For instance, Dr. Nwokenneya said: “Twelve countries came together to form a good alliance. They realised the need and gap concerning HIV between adults and children. It has four pillars, and the most important pillars are identifying cases and viral suppression.

    “The critical steps include identifying cases among children and also placing them on treatment. The mothers should also be focused on. Increasing sensitisation is very important, but most community members do not know. It is good to get many children tested. There are many myths and misconceptions about pediatric HIV.”

    Role of media in HIV advocacy

    The media have a crucial role to play in addressing stigma and discrimination for adults and children living with HIV. There have been calls for improved reportage from the media if the country is to end stigmatisation and discrimination against Persons Living with HIV (PLHIV).

    Aaron said: “People listen to what the media say. We need to build the capacity of media professionals, and also provide the right information. At the community level, we need a media person.”

    He said the media play a huge role in creating awareness, adding that it is important to empower the media and integrate them fully in HIV programmes, including at the community level.

    “The media employ the use of traditional and non-traditional means. Many users are on new media. Some persons are not using mobile devices, but make use of radios, and other means. Some others are on Twitter.

    “Stigma can be conquered in Nigeria. It is an integral part of an individual. I see the media playing a critical role in providing credible information,” Aaron stated.

    He argued that while other aspects of HIV cases and transmission are widely reported across various media, the elimination of pediatric HIV is highly important.

  • Osun monarch’s new chocolate production deal for cocoa farmers

    Osun monarch’s new chocolate production deal for cocoa farmers

    Gureje IV chocolate bars, a brand-new line of chocolate bars, has hit the global market. It came on the strength of a partnership brokered by the royal family of Eti-Oni, a rural cocoa community in Osun State, Oba Dokun Thompson Gureje IV and Queen Angelique-Monet, with Lancashire’s luxury chocolatiers, Beech’s Chocolates, based in the UK. Under the collaboration, Gureje IV chocolate bars will be produced with cocoa beans sourced from Eti-Oni. The deal promises to boost the fortunes of cocoa farmers in the state and ultimately, help transform Nigeria’s cocoa sector. EKAETE BASSEY reports.

    The people of Eti-Oni, a rural cocoa community, in Osun State, South West Nigeria, are upbeat. Prospects of a dramatic turnaround in the fortunes of cocoa farming particularly the immense value to be added to the cocoa beans they sell on the open market have put them in a jubilant and expectant mode.

    And it took the rare entrepreneurial prowess of the Eti-Oni royal family of Oba Dokun Thompson Gureje IV and Queen Angelique-Monet to propel the people of Eti-Oni, considered home to Nigeria’s oldest cocoa plantation, into a sustainable cocoa culture, which is the vision of His Majesty.

    Specifically, the stage for what is arguably, a new deal for cocoa farmers in Osun State and by extension, Nigeria was set with the official launch of Gureje IV chocolate bars. And the unveiling of this brand-new line of chocolate bars was on the behest of Oba Dokun Thompson Gureje IV and Queen Angelique-Monet, who entered into a partnership with Lancashire’s luxury chocolatiers, Beech’s Chocolates.

    Under the partnership, Beech’s Chocolates, in Preston, will be making the new line of chocolates, Gureje IV chocolate bars, with cocoa beans sourced from Eti-Oni province in Osun State, South West Nigeria.

    It is easy to see why the people of Eti-Oni town in the Atakumosa East Local Government Area of the state are over themselves with excitement and joy. For instance, proceeds from the chocolate bars by the UK chocolate factory will go back to the people. King Dokun confirmed this much, saying: “All profits will be retained by the people of Eti-Oni and invested in chocolate processing equipment, among other things, to add value to the cocoa beans they sell on the open market.”

    He added that the collaboration with Beech’s Chocolates will benefit the future of cocoa farming in Eti-Oni where his great-grandfather started the plantation in 1896 as well as the people.

    The Nation learnt that the revered Osun monarch, alongside his queen, was received by the Preston chocolate makers, last week, at their factory in Fletcher Road, Lancashire, United Kingdom (UK) to launch the bars. “When we start seeing the proceeds from the chocolate, we know that we are on to something that will transform our community,” King Dokun stated.

    According to him, over 90 per cent of Eti-Oni’s people are cocoa farmers, working in an industry worth $130 billion a year. But the growers in Eti-Oni only receive a fair trade allowance on top of the price they sell the beans at.

    The Whiting Family, owners of Beech’s Confectionery Group, actively contributed to the launch of the Gureje IV brand, with the Eti-Oni people keeping 100 per cent of the net profit. Beech’s Chocolates supplied the startup funding, but moving forward, the business will be self-sustaining and expected to generate a lot more money than any “fair trade” cocoa programme currently in place in the nation.

    Milk the Cow, the Queen’s cheery puppet sidekick, joined her with the king on their special visit to Preston’s historic chocolate factory for the unveiling of their single-origin Gureje IV chocolate bars.

    The American-born Queen Angelique-Monét expressed delight at the collaboration. “This is an exciting partnership. It brings international exchange and helps to create a sustainable cocoa culture, which is the vision of His Majesty.

    “Most importantly, we are proud of our cocoa as well as the cocoa farmers in our community – the oldest cocoa plantation in Nigeria. And so, we are also excited that this is the first time children in our community will have a candy bar. So, that’s so exciting for us,” she said.

    Demonstrating even greater enthusiasm for the chocolate bars, which she tagged a gift of heritage from the land of Eti-Oni, the “Ventriloquist Queen” added: “Every purchase helps the cocoa farmers achieve the vision of His Majesty Oba Dokun Thompson, Gureje IV, to transform the rural cocoa community into a sustainable model smart town.”

    Beech’s Chairman, Andrew Whiting, said he first met King Dokun at a chocolate convention in 2018, where the latter gave a very moving speech about the fact that they’d been growing cocoa beans for many years and the idea of the chocolate range sprang from a conversation they had later. He said: “We had this idea that if we could produce a chocolate bar sold in the western markets, all the proceeds could go towards making the processing plant a reality.”

    Whiting emphasised that the Gureje IV chocolate is single origin Nigerian cocoa from Osun State and “the milk 35 per cent and dark 70 per cent are both smooth and delicious.”

    Read Also:Why Nigeria experiences declining cocoa production, export

    “When people buy these bars they are directly helping the people of Eti-Oni to safeguard their future,” he added. On the chocolate company’s website alongside other sales outlets, the single of Gureje IV bars retail at £5.99, about N12,300, while a case of 12 bars retail at £60.00, about N123,000.

    Eti-Oni is one of the many towns that comprise the venerable and magnificent Kingdom of Ilesa in the South-West. It is the home of the second oldest known cocoa plantation in Nigeria with the oldest in Ijon, Lagos. It is believed cocoa was first introduced in Nigeria at Ijon by Captain JPL Davies, and from Eti-Oni, cocoa was spread to many other communities of the South West in the country.

    Before crude oil was discovered in the country in the late 1950s, the crop was a significant source of income for the country’s then-South West region and eventually one of the country’s most important cash crops. Nigeria, according to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), is world’s sixth largest cocoa producer, behind Cameroun, Brazil, Indonesia, Ghana, and Ivory Coast.

    For instance, at the last count, the Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM) put the global value of raw cocoa export at $10 billion, while the total value of all finished goods from cocoa is $200 billion annually, with chocolates alone accounting for $100 billion. Sadly, Nigeria, despite being ranked world’s sixth largest cocoa producer does not boast a vibrant chocolate industry to process cocoa into chocolate and other finished products.

    The consensus is that the processing of cocoa into cocoa derivatives, including chocolate, is the highest value adding activity in the cocoa value chain. It has the potential to generate significant export revenues both to the government and cocoa farmers.

    With the Osun monarch throwing his royal hat in the chocolate-producing ring, the belief is that he has set a template to hopefully, reverse the trend where Nigeria’s cocoa is exported without much, if any, value addition.

  • Battered by sit-at-home order, southeast economy, residents gasp for breathe

    Battered by sit-at-home order, southeast economy, residents gasp for breathe

    The sit-at-home order declared by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has continued to cripple economic activities across the five Southeast states of Anambra, Imo, Abia, Enugu and Ebonyi, resulting in financial losses of unimaginable scale. The enforcement of the unlawful directive by the separatist group, now with varying compliance rates in the affected states, has also foisted a siege mentality on residents. NWANOSIKE ONU, SUNNY NWANKWO, CHRIS NJOKU and OGOCHUKWU ANIOKE report that the situation has worsened the socio-economic situation in the once vibrant region.

    For residents in the five Southeast states of Anambra, Imo, Abia, Enugu and Abakaliki, the fear of Monday, the start of each week, is still the beginning of wisdom.

    Despite repeated announcements by the separatist Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) in the Southeast that it has backed down on the enforcement of its Monday sit-at-home order, most residents of the affected states would rather give an arm than move around freely and carry out their day-to-day social and economic activities.

    No one wants to incur the wrath of the non-state actors who, in a bid to compel compliance to the order, have been inflicting incalculable economic and financial haemorrhage on residents including loss of lives since August 2021 when the sit-at-home order kicked in.

    Checks by The Nation revealed that from Awka in Anambra State to Aba in Abia State, Owerri in Imo State to Enugu and Abakaliki in Enugu and Ebonyi, respectively, normalcy seems to have returned, apparently on the strength of IPOB’s annulment that it has stopped enforcing the sit-at-home order.

    However, in some areas such as Onitsha, Nnewi and other rural and semi-urban towns in different states, people are still uncomfortable moving freely on Mondays. In Anambra, for instance, six communities are still under siege, resulting in a serious lull in economic activities because the residents all deserted their business areas.

    Some of the affected communities include Orsumoghu, Ukpor, Ihembosi, Isseke, Lilu and Azia, all in the Anambra South Senatorial zone. Residents in these communities complained that the non-state actors have stopped them from attending the burial of their loved ones, for instance, even as they added that the actors insisted that they must consult them for approval before the residents embark on any lawful activities.

    The enforcers of the order, some of whom wield guns and other dangerous weapons, have also ordered that only 20 people are allowed to attend such burials, no matter the person who died. The condition forced the residents to relocate to either the commercial city of Onitsha or other neighbouring towns to entertain their guests after the quiet burial.

    A Professor of English at one of the universities in the state, who was a victim of such a condition, told The Nation that the experience was terrifying. A 72-year-old Psychologist, who pleaded not to be mentioned, also said such a condition could lead to the victim’s untimely death and emotional trauma.

    A school teacher in Enugwu–Ukwu in Njikoka Local Government Area, who spoke in confidence, also told The Nation that they teach in fear. He said the hoodlums are still on the prowl, adding that some of them (teachers) in public schools teach under duress. A banker, who works in one of the old-generation banks, also said working on Mondays is forbidden in their office.

    However, the Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has continued to battle the enforcers, but they are still relentless. The governor’s Press Secretary, Chris Aburime, told The Nation that the State Government would not back down on its resolve to ensure that the people live their normal daily lives again.

    “Security issues are not discussed anyhow, but be rest assured that the Anambra State Government and security operatives are not sleeping,” he said. And for the State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Ikenga Tochukwu, “It is not yet time to count our blessings. It will be a gradual process, but the Commissioner of Police, Aderemi Adeoye, and t he sister agencies are still on it. The war has not ended.”

    One of the school teachers in Enugwu–Ukwu in Njikoka Local Government Area who spoke in confidence told The Nation that they teach in fear. He said the hoodlums are still on the prowl, adding that some of them in public schools teach under duress.

    A banker, who works in one of the old-generation banks, told The Nation that working on Mondays is forbidden in their office.

    VImo as the epicentre of the crisis

     The sit-at-home order has refused to abate in Imo State. Despite the purported discontinuation of its enforcement, normalcy has not fully returned to the troubled state. Communities in and around Oru East, Oru West, Orlu and Okigwe remain volatile, with intense enforcement orders leading to tragic incidents.

    Residents have reported killings and abductions of those who defy the order, resulting in fear and disruption of daily life. An indigene of Orlu but who is a resident in Owerri told The Nation that business activities in the zone have come to a halt as people are not free to go about in search of their daily bread.

    “We are not free to transact businesses in our communities because of the deadly activities of these hoodlums. We want urgent government intervention,” the indigene, who pleaded for anonymity for fear of possible reprisal, said.

    Some towns in the state have also become ghost cities as roads are lonely to walk or ply on Mondays. For instance, in areas such as Obowo Junction leading to Mbano, there is a gully or valley that serves as a haven for those hoodlums. On Mondays, that road is a no-go area; hardly anyone plies the road. Several kidnappings and robberies are carried out on the road and have had a negative economic impact.

    A trader who identified himself as Nze Polycarp said the economic impact of the sit-at-home order is evident, with businesses, markets and transportation services being severely affected. The education and healthcare sectors have also been badly hit, with activities in schools and healthcare facilities almost ground to a halt.

    The situation has also led to a significant decline in economic, commercial and human activities in those communities, causing concern among residents and stakeholders. A lawyer who spoke in confidence told our correspondent in Owerri that judges in Orlu have refused to sit in any court in Orlu.

    “They prefer to have their sittings in Owerri because they can be killed or kidnapped if they dare sit there. Efforts to address the sit-at-home order have been made by State Governments and security operatives, but the impact continues to be felt,” he said.

    The President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, told The Nation that he would soon organise a summit on insecurity in the Southeast. “We are planning a summit on insecurity and its effects on the economy in Southeast soon during which we will address the issues squarely,” he said.

    The Imo State Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, has also addressed the issue of the unlawful sit-at-home order. He also vowed to work tirelessly to put an end to this order, which has been crippling socio-economic activities in the state.

    Breather in Ebonyi

    The sit-at-home order is no longer being observed In Ebonyi State. However, the spill-over effects of the enforcement of the directive in neighbouring states in the region on businesses are visible. This is because businessmen can’t come into the state on Mondays, leading to a loss of revenue.

    However, the situation has greatly improved as many businessmen come in on Sundays and then proceed to the markets to carry out their transactions on Mondays. They then load up their goods and wait till Tuesday morning before leaving.

    A manager of one of the hotels in the state, who spoke in confidence, told our correspondent that they record more sales on Mondays unlike before the sit-at-home order. “Yes, the weekend period now kind of extends to Monday. You have visitors who come from other states during the weekend but are forced to stay till Tuesday because of the sit-at-home order.

    “The same thing applies to businessmen who come in to buy things such as rice at the mill. They do their business on Monday but can’t leave till Tuesday. This indicates that they spend the night in hotels. So, in a way, it has been beneficial to us,” he said.

    A rice miller at the Abakaliki Rice Mill, James Obasi, said customers patronise the business on Mondays unlike before when they would open and record few sales. “Though the sit-at-home order is not observed on Mondays here, its impact is still felt in the market but not like before,” he said.

     A foodstuff seller at the International Market, Stella Kwadoro, said they also suffer from the sit-at-home order in other states as they can’t go to the markets in other Southeast states whenever their market days fall on Mondays.

    “We can’t go to the market, so we can’t buy goods for that week. You know we depend on goods we get on wholesale from those markets on their market days and if we miss it that week, then we will not have enough goods to sell,” she said.

    A manager in one of the major transport services in the country, who spoke to our correspondent in confidence, said transport companies lose millions of naira to sit-at-home orders. He said: “I don’t have the figures but it will be in hundreds of millions of naira.

    “Just imagine the hundreds of buses that you see here in Central Park. On Mondays, they are all grounded because even though there is no sit-at-home order observed on Mondays, we still can’t load as other states in the region shut down on Mondays.

    In 2023, former Governor David Umahi who was then the Chairman of Southeast Governors’ Forum said the region loses over N10 billion each time it observes the sit-at-home order. The situation, analysts have said, worsened the economic situation in the region as it tends to drag more people into poverty.

    A resident of Abakaliki, Mr. Ikechukwu Nze, urged those who are enforcing the sit-at-home order to consider the plight of the poor masses in the region.

    His words: “They say they are fighting for our freedom but how do you persuade me to support you when you inflict such suffering and poverty on me and my household?

    “Whether it is observed in Ebonyi or not, the fact is that every state in the Southeast is affected because we are economically interdependent on one other. If the two major markets in Onitsha and Aba, which are where we go to get our goods, are closed and the ones we produce such as rice can’t be transported out, then it will have a ripple effect on everybody.

    “I think the organisers should have a rethink and come up with better strategies to fight for our .freedom, if at all that is what they are doing.”

    A security consultant to Ebonyi State Government, Stanley Okoro Emegha, said the State Government has continued to partner with security agencies by giving them all required logistics support to raid hideouts and camps of the enforcers.

    This, he said, is the reason the state is more peaceful compared to other states in the region. “We don’t observe sit-at-home order in Ebonyi State. Some political parties held their primaries for the last bye-election on Monday and that was in Afikpo not even in Abakaliki. So, Ebonyi is peaceful.

    “But that doesn’t mean we are relaxing. We keep investigating and monitoring. Any slightest suspicion, we mobilise security and raid so that they don’t have a foothold anywhere to strike,” he said.

    The spokesperson to the Ebonyi State Police Command, Joshua Ụkandu, said: ‘Police have continued to provide strong security presence in the state on Mondays.

    “We also regularly carry out joint shows of force with other security agencies to show that we are on the ground. We shall continue to ensure security of lives and property in the state not only on Mondays but every day of the week,” he said.

    Partial observance in Abia

    In Abia State, the home state of the detained IPOB leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, residents of major cities and rural areas partially observe the sit-at-home order.

    Unofficially, Mondays have become an indefinite public holiday for residents of the state, especially Aba as most groups now have their meetings, play football on the streets and do other house chores, among other things.

    Investigation revealed that though some private schools in the state have resumed academic activities on Mondays, the majority of the parents would force their children and wards to stay away from their schools on Mondays.

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    The Nation gathered that even security operatives who mount various checkpoints to either control traffic or conduct a stop-and-search operation have continued to stay away from their various duty posts on Mondays, except for some detachments that sometimes man some black spots.

    A visit to some major parts of the state’s commercial towns such as Aba revealed that there have been an increased number of human and vehicular movements on the roads. Banks in Aba State have continued to observe the sit-at-home order, while a few other banks in Umuahia, the state capital, have defied the order.

    While business owners and other residents of the state continue to voluntarily observe the sit-at-home order, some Southeast stakeholders, including the member representing Bende Federal Constituency and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, have been pressing for an end to the sit-at-home order with the launch of his pet project, Peace in Southeast (PISE-P).

    While the State Government and its agents have remained mum over the continued observance of the sit-at-home order, a source from the State Government who spoke in confidence admitted the negative effect the sit-at-home order was having on the economy of the state.

    The source told The Nation that the State Government decided to choose a diplomatic approach in dealing with the sensitive issue because it wouldn’t want to risk the lives and property of residents of the state which the government was committed to protecting.