The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Nigeria

  • Nigeria does not need a nationwide protest now

    Nigeria does not need a nationwide protest now

    By Dennis Otuaro

    Peaceful demonstrations to convey felt needs are rights enshrined in our nation’s constitution, which also highlights ways and means by which such rights and dissents are disposed.

    But are protests and demonstrations necessary at the time our national ecosystem is recovering from a grievous pandemic and the worst economic crisis since the great depression? I profoundly, with all sense of responsibility, do not think so.

    In the apparently challenging circumstances this nation finds itself as it tackles headlong the triggers left unattended to in its 25 years of democratic practices, you would agree with me, that it is only germane that the present structural reforms put in place by the federal government, together with its many cushioning interventions are just the only way to get this nation out of the wood.

    When the mandate to govern this nation was given to the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, you could recall he took it as a honor of a lifetime to serve in that capacity and immediately  went to work to rebuild this county. We have as a result seen historic progress made in the area of clearing $16b about (18%) from the nations external debt, added $4b to the nations external reserves, cleared all forests backlogs owed to foreign airline operators, started the path to full local government autonomy to bring decision making closer to the people, the most essential victory of which was got at the Supreme Court, students loan to federal and state universities, and reliefs emergencies in liquidity and palliatives sent through the subnational governments in line with the federation principles.

    Closing these yawning gaps together with the emergencies declared on oil and gas sectors where this government continues to bear the cost of variations in the unsteady fluctuations in the price of crude and its refined components, are critical to address balance of trade deficits, low manufacturing and production, producing to meet domestic demands, and decentralised aggregation and production network of small medium enterprises, which could mean the nation would earn forex and tax to pay back FG loans to meet capital and recurrent expenditures.

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    Given these strides and the almost visible signs of turning from the headwinds, I consider that the present attempt by the conveners of the August 1st protest to want to go ahead with their planned protest  would be premature, counter productive, distractive and disuasive

    Let’s not lose sight of the fact that there are persons who when they look at Nigeria in its present path to economic recovery, what  they see is carnage, despair and darkness. They spread fears and lies for profit and power. They daily pray that this government fail to justify their misplaced idiosyncrasies and the concomitant effect is the avoidable gaps where they take advantage of the short term difficulties to create artificial scarcity, price gouging, food and double digit inflation. They only seek to use our people  to fund their plot having failed in previous successive attempt to destabilise the federal government.

    There is the hope however  that governmental interventions would slice through the double digit and food inflation and provide more abundant life for the teeming number of our citizenry.

    Be that as it may, We can’t soon forget how previous unhealthy demonstrations were hijacked and used to perpetrate unrest, properties worth billions of naira were destroyed, prison breaks became normative and very dangerous criminals were let back into society who soon became rapists, car jackers, kidnappers and killers. They foist back on society the very issues the present protest hope to achieve.

    It is in this regard that I use this medium, as the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) to appeal to all ex-agitators not to be part of any protests, and not to allow themselves to be used to settle political scores or be used to unleash destruction of government infrastructure.

    In closing, I remember  the words of the third century Greek philosopher Sextus Empiricus who said, “The mills of God grinds slow, but they grind exceedingly sure.”

    Taken from this, Let me say no radical surgery to remove a malignant tumor is pleasant ab initio, but once it is removed, it automatically impacts the quality of life of the index case.

    This should provide a renewed source of hope for us as we look forward to a greater, bigger, and better Nigeria

    • Dr Otuaro, the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme writes, from Abuja

  • Ubah’s death shocking, huge loss to Nigeria, say APC, Umahi, Bamidele

    Ubah’s death shocking, huge loss to Nigeria, say APC, Umahi, Bamidele

    •Uzodimma, Nwoko, Doguwa, others mourn

    More tributes have continued to pour in for the late Anambra South Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.

    Ubah, who died on Saturday in London, United Kingdom (UK), had defected from Young Peoples Party (YPP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

    He was 52.

    Penultimate Thursday, he donated N50 million during the inauguration of the Anambra State Consultative Forum of the APC ahead next year’s governorship election in the state.

    In its condolence message yesterday in Abuja by its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the party said: “The All Progressives Congress (APC) is deeply saddened by news of the passing of distinguished Senator Ifeanyi Ubah who, reportedly, died in London on Saturday, July 27, 2024.

    “Until his death, Senator Ubah was a deft politician and two-term federal lawmaker representing Anambra South in the 10th Senate.

    “Ubah was an astute businessman, philanthropist and patriot. He was the Chief Executive Officer of Capital Oil and Founder of Ifeanyi Ubah Football Club. His passing is a massive loss and he will be missed dearly.

    “Our heartfelt prayers and thoughts are with his family, constituents, colleagues at the National Assembly and the good people of Anambra state at this difficult time.

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    “We pray the Almighty God to grant the soul of our departed party man, business magnate and most distinguished lawmaker eternal rest. Amen.”

    Works Minister Dave Umahi expressed sadness over the passing of Senator Ubah.

    In a condolence message, Umahi described the late Ubah as “a vibrant young entrepreneur and a politician who invested generously in the act of charity and humanity and promoted the social and economic well-being of his people, especially of the district he represented”.

    He added: “His death has created a deep vacuum in the social existence of the Igbo community and Nigeria in general. May his departed soul find God’s everlasting compassion, amen.”

    The minister condoled with the family of the deceased, the government and people of Anambra State, members of the National Assembly, his associates and others “who will miss the affection of this pleasant gem”.

    Also, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele has expressed shock over the death of Senator Ubah.

    In a statement in Abuja by his Directorate of Media and Public Affairs, Bamidele noted that the late Ubah was passionate about the development and liberation of his people from the grips of poverty and penury.

    “He was an astute business tycoon with profound influence on the younger and future generations.

    “He personally shared his political aspirations and his plan for the people of Anambra State and the Southeast. While we were looking forward to the actualisation of his aspiration and plans, God Almighty, the Owner of Earth and Heaven, took him away,” Bamidele said.

    Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma said Ubah’s death was shocking and a huge loss to the nation.

    In a statement in Owerri by his Chief Press Secretary/Special Adviser on Media, Oguwike Nwachuku, Governor Uzodimma, who is the Chairman of Progressives Governors’ Forum (PGF), the Southeast Governors’ Forum (SEGF), as well as the leader of the APC in the Southeast, described the late senator as a young man full of developmental ideas and passionate about service to God and humanity.

    The governor said the late Ubah would be sorely missed.

    Also, the senator representing Delta North, Ned Nwoko (PDP, Delta), described the death of Senator Ubah as a devastating blow to Nigeria’s democracy.

    In a tribute, Nwoko, who is the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriation, said: “Senator Ifeanyi Ubah was more than a fellow legislator; he was a brother and a friend.

    “His death is a profound shock and a tremendous loss, felt deeply by both the Senate and the entire nation. Senator Ubah’s contributions and leadership were critical to the health and progress of Nigerian democracy.

    “His demise is a devastating blow to Nigerian democracy.

    “Senator Ubah was a remarkable leader and a dedicated public servant. He was an intentional lawmaker, tirelessly championing economic empowerment and supporting legislative reforms.

    “He stood out as a dependable source of hope for his constituents. This loss is deeply felt by all of us.

    “The family and the Anambra State government are in our thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.

    “His legacy of service and dedication will be remembered with great respect.”

    Also, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources (Upstream), Alhassan Doguwa, described the death of Senator Ubah as unfortunate and a great loss to the Southeast.

    Doguwa, who represents Doguwa/Tudun Wada Federal Constituency of Kano State, described the late Ubah as a patriotic Nigerian who promoted unity, progress and national development.

    In a statement yesterday in Abuja, the lawmaker condoled with the immediate family of the deceased senator, the people of his constituency, the Senate and all those the late business mogul left behind.

    He said the late senator would be sorely missed.

    Also, a former presidential spokesperson, Dr. Doyin Okupe, expressed sadness over the death of the late senator.

    In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) yesterday, Okupe said Nigeria has lost a colossus.

    “The curtains have fallen on the golden boy of the Southeast.

    “Senator Ifeanyi Ubah was the enfant terrible of Anambra politics. He was a quintessential mogul of the Nigerian oil and gas industry and a politician extraordinaire.

    “The Southeast has lost an illustrious son, Nigeria has lost a colossus.

    “He was my friend, my brother and political associate. May his soul rest in peace,” he said.

  • Nigeria, U.S sign MoU to strengthen economic ties

    Nigeria, U.S sign MoU to strengthen economic ties

    The Federal Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on commercial and investment partnership to strengthen both country’s economic ties with the United States (U.S.A).

    The agreement was signed on the sidelines of this year’s AGOA Forum in Washington DC by the Minister of Industry Trade and Investment, Doris Uzoka Anite, and the U.S Secretary of Commerce, Gina Raimondo.

    In a statement in Abuja, the ministry explained that the MoU aims to deepen bilateral commercial and investment ties between Nigeria and the United States through collaboration to enhance the business environment, facilitate private sector-led trade and investment projects, develop direct business relations, and implement actions for a mutually beneficial trade and investment relationship.

    The statement reads: “The agreement focuses on key economic sectors, including infrastructure, agriculture, sports and the digital and creative economy, as well as cross-cutting areas such as investment promotion and regulatory reforms. It also establishes a framework for regular consultations at various levels, including business-to-government, government-to-government, and business-to-business engagements.”

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    Besides the MoU, both countries issued a joint statement outlining new avenues of commercial cooperation and affirming shared priorities on the digital economy, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to enhancing bilateral economic relations.

    Anite said the signing of the MoU marked a pivotal moment in Nigeria-U.S. economic relations. “By focusing on critical sectors like infrastructure, agriculture, and the creative and digital economy, we are laying the groundwork for sustainable economic growth and job creation.

    “This partnership underscores our commitment to nurturing an enabling environment for investment and trade, which is crucial for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic development agenda. We are particularly excited about the opportunities this presents for our fast growing tech sector and the potential for knowledge transfer and innovation,” she said.

  • Nigeria seeks US partnership on green shipping corridors

    Nigeria seeks US partnership on green shipping corridors

    Nigeria has held talks with relevant United States (US) officials on exploring opportunities for the country to leverage its vast marine resources and attract new green-focused partnerships and investments in its seaports and shipping corridors.

    Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action (SPEC), Ajuri Ngelale, in an update of his official activities on Friday, disclosed that he held virtual deliberations with officials from the US Department of Energy and the State Department maritime prospects.

    According to Ngelale, the discussions aimed to identify potential areas of collaboration between Nigeria and the US in developing sustainable shipping practices and reducing carbon emissions in the maritime sector.

    He described the opportunity as “amazing” for Nigeria to “do good and do well at the same time,” indicating the potential for economic benefits while promoting environmental sustainability.

    “On Friday evening, I deliberated virtually with officials from the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. State Department concerning Nigeria’s push to leverage on its vast marine resources to attract new green-focused partnerships and investments in our seaports and shipping corridors. It is an amazing opportunity for Nigeria to do good and do well at the same time”, Ngelale said.

    Meanwhile, Ngelale began the day with a briefing from Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe, Director-General/CEO of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC), to discuss ongoing activities and strategies.

    Later, he joined a virtual call with Oando Clean Energy’s Executive Management team, praising their groundbreaking work in scaling up investments in renewable energy systems.

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    Ngelale assured Oando of his support, citing their focused attention on R&D and willingness to take calculated risks.

    “After arriving in Abuja at 6am on Friday morning, a quick stop at home enabled me to begin my day early with sustained momentum beginning with an 8am briefing from the Director-General/CEO of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC), Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe. There never seems to be enough time to run through all of the activities taking place, but it was a much needed and fruitful discussion.

    “Later in the afternoon, I joined a virtual call with the Executive Management team of Oando Clean Energy and we discussed the groundbreaking work they are doing to scale up tangible and – over time – very valuable investments in renewable energy systems.

    “The combination of Oando’s focused attention on R&D and sustained study of prospective clean energy investment opportunities with the willingness to take calculated risks is setting up to be a major boon for their organization, but also for the Nigerian economy as a whole.

    “They will be given all the relationship support we can muster based on the merit of their organizational vision and wide-ranging activities,” he said.

  • ‘How Nigeria can benefit from over $100bn green climate fund’

    ‘How Nigeria can benefit from over $100bn green climate fund’

    Nigeria achieved a significant milestone by obtaining the Green Climate Fund (GCF) accreditation as a direct access entity for the first time. This accreditation allows Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) PLC, to package and submit climate adaptation and mitigation projects, valued between $50 million and $250 million, for GCF funding. This development aligns with Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) commitments and includes on-lending, blending, and project management. This accreditation provides Nigeria the opportunity to attract substantial global funding for climate initiatives thus benefiting various sectors, particularly the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). This is crucial given the global commitment of over $100 billion for climate adaptation and mitigation in developing countries. The Managing Director of the DBN PLC, Dr. Tony Okpanachi in this interview with Nduka Chiejina sheds light on what the accreditation means for Nigeria as well as other issues the DBN is involved in. Excerpts:

    How much will DBN access from the GCF to address climate related issues that businesses might require funds for and how will the GCF be administered by DBN in Nigeria and is it going to be on a concessionary rate basis or MPR related interest rate?

    DBN has been accredited under the Medium Category which means it can access GCF’s funding for projects between $50 million and $250 million. DBN has also been accredited for on-lending, blending for loans and project management only.  Which means at this stage, DBN cannot access grant funding, equity and guarantee instruments from GCF. However, plans are underway to seek an upgrade to include these instruments in the future. GCF funds will be administered on a concessionary rate basis through a structure that will involve close collaboration with the Nigerian Climate Change Council (NCCC) for project selection, appraisals and alignment with the Nigeria Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Shortlisted projects will then require detailed funding proposals that will be sent to the GCF for approval. GCF’s resources can only be used for climate mitigation and adaptation projects which must be aligned with Nigeria’s NDC focus areas.

    Given our precarious funding situation, I’d like more information on how rigorous the process is to access climate adaptation funds. You mentioned that entities need to comply with many rules, which is often challenging even with conventional funding. How much work is needed to prepare these entities, and what assistance will DBN and its partners provide? Additionally, is there a cap on how much our country can draw from the fund, and what is your projection of our potential drawdown?

    The next steps involve issuing guidelines to guide applicants. Given the anticipated influx of project proposals, these guidelines will be developed in collaboration with the NCCC, as they must first clear projects that align with the indices. Once cleared, the projects will come to DBN for appraisal, packaging, and sponsorship to the GCF. We will start by broadly disseminating these guidelines and raising awareness to ensure people understand what projects qualify for GCF financing.

    Additionally, we will learn from other successful projects, examining their hurdles and packaging processes to avoid reinventing the wheel. This will help us understand the criteria and improve our application process, aiming to minimise project rejections.

    Our committee of experts will ensure projects are well-prepared before submission to the GCF. The goal is to increase the chances of success and reduce the time it takes to get programs approved. We will also focus on raising awareness and supporting projects that have a higher likelihood of securing funding.

    No, there are no caps. Projects are, as long as you go through it and you’re able to meet those criteria, you get it and then approve. As I mentioned before, the last time they approved $1 billion, there are so many other projects that will come in.

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    So there are no caps. So the better, the more you’re able to prepare yourself and get good projects ready for financing, to attract funds from them, to get it done. So the onus is on us, working with NCCC and other partners, to ensure that projects that we’re going to sponsor and send to them meet all these criteria, so that we don’t have a lot of rejections or a lot of pushback or a lot of questions being asked that tends to prolong the process of getting these projects financing in.

    When you talk about projects, what sort of projects, are these projects going to be climate related, and which sectors are you looking at specifically?

    First and foremost, the project must be climate-related, focusing on climate adaptation or mitigation. This means projects that help us adapt to or mitigate climate risks, such as renewable energy projects or those that reduce carbon emissions. These are often referred to as green projects, which aim to reduce greenhouse emissions and mitigate the risks of climate change. All projects must align with the indices committed to by Nigeria.

    In terms of sectors, it’s not sector-specific. Any sector can have climate-related projects that help mitigate or adapt to climate change. For example, renewable energy projects or alternative production processes that reduce carbon emissions are both valid. The key objective is that each project must either adapt to or mitigate climate change. Regarding the GCF’s terms, the projects are examined individually. The rates are highly concessionary, potentially as low as 0.08 percent, though this varies by project. These concessionary rates are designed to encourage the uptake of climate adaptation or mitigation projects. Each project’s specific terms, such as moratorium periods, are determined based on the project. The $1 billion approved at the last board meeting was not for Nigeria alone but for various projects worldwide. Nigeria needs to present strong projects with a high likelihood of approval to benefit from these funds. The process is rigorous, and only projects aligning with Nigeria’s climate indices will be cleared and forwarded by the NCCC.

    Are the funding instruments going to include equity contributions from potential beneficiaries? If so, how much equity contribution is expected from them?

    As I mentioned, our current accreditation is for on-lending, so it’s primarily debt. We also engage in blending, where we combine this concessionary funding with other funding sources to lower the overall cost of funding. Additionally, we handle project management. Regarding equity and grants, our accreditation for these is not yet in place, but we are working on it. Once we receive this accreditation, we will be able to offer grants and equity. For now, our focus remains on on-lending, blending, and project management.

    Given the significant role of MSMEs in Nigeria’s economy, how has the Development Bank of Nigeria been able to bridge the financing gap for these businesses, particularly in underserved sectors and regions?

    The Bank has particularly focused on underserved segments and regions by channelling significant resources to women-owned and youth-owned businesses. DBN also remains unwavering in its support for women-owned MSMEs, recognising the unique challenges they face in accessing financial and business development services. DBN’s commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs was acknowledged with an honorable mention at the 2022 Global SME Finance Awards. Similarly, DBN has directed efforts towards empowering the youth, who constitute approximately 70% of Nigeria’s population and are the nation’s greatest assets. To us, innovation remains at the core of DBN’s operations, which is why the Bank has introduced innovative products such as longer-tenured loans and the Finance2Finance product, which facilitates funding for Financial Institutions which have active MSME portfolios but are unable to receive direct funding from DBN.

    The DBN has achieved a “AAA” rating from GCR and other favorable ratings from other agencies. What strategies and operational efficiencies have contributed to this exceptional creditworthiness?

    DBN’s exceptional creditworthiness can be attributed to several strategies including: Robust Risk Management: DBN have implemented comprehensive risk management frameworks that ensure the quality and safety of our loan portfolios. Strong Financial Performance: Consistent financial performance, including DBN’s ability to maintain high levels of liquidity and profitability, has been crucial. In terms of operational excellence, DBN’s focus on operational efficiencies, including the use of technology and streamlined processes, has enhanced the bank’s service delivery. In the area of strategic partnerships, we are forging collaborations with reputable financial institutions, consultants and development partners that have bolstered our credibility and financial strength.

    How has the DBN leveraged its partnership with financial intermediaries to expand its reach and impact on MSMEs across Nigeria? What challenges have you encountered, and how have you addressed them?

    One of the merits of DBN’s wholesale model is the advantage it provides the Bank to leverage the extensive and vast network of its PFIs to reach MSMEs dispersed across the country.  Hence, the Bank has strategically partnered with over 69 PFIs across commercial banks, micro-finance banks and other financial institutions as at the end of 2023. Strategies are in place to partner with more PFIs within the financial sectors to disburse loans more effectively.

    Challenges such as limited financial literacy among MSMEs and the varying capabilities of PFIs have been addressed through targeted training programs and continuous technical assistance support. One of DBN’s mandate revolves around providing Technical-Assistance to PFIs, enhancing their capability and willingness to lend to MSMEs. Through strategic partnerships with organisations such as Google Nigeria and the Entrepreneurship Development Centre (EDC) of the Lagos Business School, DBN has facilitated capacity-building programs for Nigerian MSMEs to enable these businesses to become financially viable. Additionally, with the introduction of a Learning Management System, DBN has equipped over 5,000 MSMEs as of December 2023 with the necessary knowledge and skills to overcome financing challenges and pursue growth aspirations.

    There is the incidence of high cost of borrowing, how is DBN stepping in to help MSMEs, and small corporates navigate this challenge?

    We recognise the difficulties businesses face in this challenging economic landscape, and this has indeed increased our resolve as an institution to accelerate and catalyse access to finance for MSMEs. Consequently, the Bank has an interest drawback programme that incentivises the PFIs to on-lend to businesses in key impact segments and sectors of the economy. Furthermore, there is a close relationship between cost of capital and risk perception. Hence, reducing both the inherent and perceived risk in the MSME sector will go a long way in reducing the cost of capital. To this end, the Bank has a robust capacity-building program developed to enhance the capacity of MSMEs to thrive and become fund-ready thereby unlocking more affordable financing.

    How does the DBN measure its impact on job creation, economic growth, and poverty reduction? Can you share some specific examples of the bank’s contributions in these areas?

    DBN’s impact target is to support Nigeria’s economic transformation and sustainable socioeconomic growth through financial and non-financial support mechanisms to enable a vibrant, diverse, and growing MSME sector. One of the most tangible impacts of increased MSME financing is job creation. As of December 2023, DBN’s activities had also resulted in the creation of about 1.2 million jobs. DBN assesses the impact of its initiatives across three levels: at the ecosystem level, at the Participating Financial Institution (PFI) level, and at the MSME level.

    At the ecosystem level, DBN’s impact target will improve investor confidence to support MSMEs, leading to new investors and sources of capital in the ecosystem, alongside a variety of fit-for-purpose funding models and supportive regulations and policies. Indicators of this include the percentage of DBN’s loan book funded through new investors and the number of MSME finance policies or regulatory instruments drafted with DBN input.

    At the PFI level, DBN’s impact target is to equip PFIs with an improved understanding of the MSME sector, thereby enabling them to become better positioned to provide appropriate products and services to the MSME sector. DBN measures this through indicators such as the number of PFIs reporting an increased understanding of the MSME sector and an increased ability or willingness to lend to MSMEs due to DBN loans, guarantees, and capacity building. At the MSME level, key metrics include the percentages, volume, and count of loans disaggregated by gender, youth, sector, and geography. Over the next five years, in line with the new strategic direction of the Bank, DBN targets disbursing 30% of loans outstanding to youth-led MSMEs, 40% to women-led MSMEs, and 15% to MSMEs in underdeveloped geopolitical zones/focus states.

    What are the DBN’s expansion plans, both in terms of geographic reach and product offerings, to further deepen its impact on the Nigerian MSME ecosystem?

    DBN has firmly established itself as the primary development bank supporting MSMEs in Nigeria. With the recent launch of a new 5-year strategic plan, DBN aims to accelerate its impact and reach over 2 million MSMEs, reflecting the Bank’s commitment to scaling its efforts and driving sustainable growth in the Nigerian market. DBN plans to expand its geographic reach by increasing its presence in underserved regions, particularly in the North-East and North-West. DBN is also broadening its product offerings to include more tailored financial solutions, for impact segments such as green, youth and gender-based financing. Collaborating with more financial intermediaries and leveraging technology to scale its impact over its new strategic cycle.

  • The trouble with patriotism in Nigeria

    The trouble with patriotism in Nigeria

    Ask not what your country can do for you but ask what you can do for your country- John Fitzgerald Kennedy JFK

    The quote above were words spoken by the 35th President of the United States, John Fitzgerald Kennedy as he gave his inauguration speech to the American People who had just voted in the closest election race ever. Kennedy, a serving  Senator prior to his emergence as president was a regarded as a new generation leader who via that speech was seeking to reinvigorate the American populace to do more for the nation.

    This generation of Nigerians and future generations have no other country but Nigeria, we shall remain here and salvage it together.

    Now, this quote were the very last words of the  speech of a former military ruler of Nigeria, General Muhammadu Buhari, a favorite of mine, this quote too was somewhat a rallying call for Nigerians to salvage the mess that past Nigerian administrations had plunged the Nigerian nation into, a call many Nigerians barely answered.

    Herein lies the difference between these two societies; the call to patriotism  by two new generation leaders of two different nations and the aftermath. One society remains progressive building upon such patriotism to expand the nation’s frontiers, the other grappling from one conundrum unto another, doing what a renowned professor described as the “Forbaki” dance of progress, where it takes two steps forward and ten steps backward!

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    In one we have had a rising spate of patriotism alongside progress, though such patriotism is worriedly springing up some sort of nationalism as a counterforce to the rising liberalism/ diversity of American  society but then that is a discussion for another day and in the other, there appears to be a dwindling spate of patriotism, one where there is no shared passion with the aspiration of the state, conversely there is seemingly no meaningful progress in the affairs of such a state.

    Today, on numerous skits and on social media platforms in Nigeria we repeatedly see where the nation is reportedly bashed by its citizens, yes we know that the country hasn’t been on a path or track that she was destined for but then should that make the nation the butt of jokes? No is the music here!

    The United States of America is not the only respectable exemplification of what patriotism is or should be, other nations such as Germany, Israel, India, The United Kingdom, Namibia and Ghana are natural examples of a people that take pride in their national status, yes they may have had their issues with their governments but you will never see them jeer at their nation’s pride.

    It is this level of patriotism that is translated into all works and spheres of life of these nations! From the leadership to the ordinary man on the streets of these nations we see a compelling need to put the interests of their nations before anything else, little wonder these nations are remarkably making fleeting progress!

    Certain schools of thought will however criticize my train of thoughts, laying landmines on why patriotism is lacking in Nigeria and possibly attempt to justify such. They will make known examples of how the Nigerian State has reportedly failed its people and how it’s leadership, like a recurring decimal has repeatedly dashed the hopes of the Nigerian people while dishing out slogans and maxims that left the nation poorer while they enriched themselves! They will point to how national leaders became tribal champions undermining the Nigerian spirit for the allure of regional or prebendal politics, they will refer you to the lives of those who gave their all for the love of country and place a picturesque contrast with those who didn’t and how these persons have fared after be it in life or in death. Nigeria I have repeatedly heard is “not worth dying for!“

    They argue that if we are to indeed exhibit patriotism, then the leadership class must be the bellwether of such an act, they state that it is unfair to place such burdens on the people while the leadership class fritter away the nation’s commonwealth.

    One might be forced to agree with such thinking save the solemn fact that every nation deserves the kind of leadership it gets, therefore if the leadership class has fallen short of the patriotism benchmark then it is because the people too have exhibited such.

    I may also agree that while nations like Pakistan, India and China had single national hero leaders, leadership such as Al Jinnah, Nehru and Mao who’s philosophy have sought to guide their people into finding the path unto national salvation whereas compared to Nigeria, where we had a motley of leaders who    were reportedly more of regional or ethnic champions than nationalists complicating our march unto national unity and its salvation, but then the United States and the UK cannot be ascribed to a singular hero leader, rather they have had a cast of them each repeatedly seeking to lift the nation even as peers and as rivals, again is such an argument not lame in the fact that it’s been sixty years since the nation got her independence from her colonial masters, to continue to dwell on such is indeed laughable or we a country of all over 200 million people now short of heroes?

    The answer like that hymn is blowing in the winds!

  • Why is climate change a reality in Nigeria?

    Why is climate change a reality in Nigeria?

    Oladosu Adebola Oluwaseun

    Nigeria, located in West Africa, is the most populous country on the continent, with a population exceeding 200 million people. Its diverse geography includes arid zones in the north, savanna in the middle belt, and tropical forests in the south. This diversity makes Nigeria particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, as each region faces distinct challenges.

    Over the past few decades, Nigeria has experienced significant changes in temperature and rainfall patterns. According to the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET), the country has witnessed an average temperature increase of about 1.0°C since the 1960s. This rise in temperature has been accompanied by erratic rainfall patterns, with some regions experiencing increased rainfall leading to flooding, while others face prolonged droughts.

    For instance, in northern Nigeria, the frequency of heatwaves has increased, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C. The region has also seen a reduction in rainfall, leading to desertification and loss of arable land. The World Bank estimates that by 2050, Nigeria could lose up to 60% of its agricultural land due to desertification, significantly impacting food security.

    Agriculture is a vital sector in Nigeria, employing about 70% of the workforce and contributing approximately 24% to the GDP. However, climate change poses a severe threat to agricultural productivity. Changes in rainfall patterns and increasing temperatures have led to reduced crop yields and livestock productivity.

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    Staple crops such as maize, rice, and sorghum are highly sensitive to climate variations. A study published in the journal *Environmental Research Letters* found that maize production in Nigeria could decline by up to 20% by 2050 due to climate change. Similarly, rice production may drop by 15% if current trends continue.

    Livestock is also at risk, as higher temperatures and reduced water availability affect pasture quality and animal health. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reports that livestock productivity in Nigeria could decline by up to 30% in the coming decades due to climate stress.

    Fisheries, particularly in coastal areas, are threatened by rising sea levels and ocean acidification. Nigeria’s coastline is already experiencing erosion at an alarming rate of 20-30 meters per year in some areas, which threatens coastal communities and fishery-based livelihoods.

    Nigeria’s water resources are under immense pressure due to climate change. The country relies heavily on rainfall for water supply, and changes in precipitation patterns have led to water scarcity in some regions. The Niger River Basin, which is crucial for agriculture and hydroelectric power, has experienced reduced water flow due to declining rainfall and increased evaporation rates.

    According to the World Resources Institute, Nigeria ranks among the top 50 countries facing extreme water stress. By 2040, it is projected that more than 40% of Nigeria’s population could face high water stress levels, exacerbating conflicts over water resources, particularly in arid northern regions.

    Climate change also poses significant health risks in Nigeria. Rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns have created conducive environments for vector-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue fever. The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported an increase in malaria incidence in Nigeria, partly attributed to climate variability.

    Heat-related illnesses are becoming more common, especially in urban areas where the urban heat island effect exacerbates high temperatures. A study by the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research indicates that heatwaves could increase mortality rates by up to 10% in major cities like Lagos and Kano.

    The socio-economic impacts of climate change in Nigeria are profound, affecting livelihoods, food security, and economic stability. Rural communities, which depend heavily on agriculture and natural resources, are particularly vulnerable.

    Climate-induced environmental degradation has forced many Nigerians to migrate from rural to urban areas in search of better opportunities. This rural-urban migration contributes to the rapid urbanization of cities like Lagos and Abuja, leading to overcrowding, inadequate infrastructure, and increased poverty levels.

    The Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reports that poverty rates in Nigeria are highest in rural areas, with over 70% of the rural population living below the poverty line. Climate change exacerbates this poverty by reducing agricultural productivity and increasing the cost of living.

    Addressing the impacts of climate change in Nigeria requires a combination of mitigation and adaptation strategies. The Nigerian government has taken steps to combat climate change through policies and initiatives, but significant challenges remain.

    Nigeria’s National Climate Change Policy aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance energy efficiency, and promote renewable energy sources. The country is committed to achieving a 20% reduction in emissions by 2030, as outlined in its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.

    Nigeria has vast potential for renewable energy, particularly solar and wind. The government has set a target to increase the share of renewable energy in the national energy mix to 30% by 2030. Initiatives such as the Nigeria Electrification Project aim to provide off-grid solar solutions to rural communities, improving access to clean energy.

    Promoting climate-smart agriculture is crucial for enhancing food security and building resilience to climate change. Techniques such as agroforestry, crop rotation, and improved irrigation systems can help farmers adapt to changing climate conditions. The Nigerian government, in collaboration with international organizations, is working to implement these practices across the country.

    Climate change is an undeniable reality in Nigeria, with far-reaching impacts on the environment, economy, and society. The country’s vulnerability to climate change is exacerbated by its reliance on agriculture, rapid population growth, and inadequate infrastructure. To address these challenges, Nigeria must continue to implement effective mitigation and adaptation strategies, with a focus on sustainable development and resilience building. International cooperation and support are also essential to help Nigeria navigate the complexities of climate change and secure a sustainable future for its people.

    •Oluwaseun is an environmental journalist and a graduate student of the International Institute of Journalism (IIJ)

  • Nigeria takes leap towards renewable energy with Chinese partnership

    Nigeria takes leap towards renewable energy with Chinese partnership

    The team overseeing the execution of Nigeria’s renewable energy technology manufacturing zone, Evergreen City, on Wednesday met with the world’s largest EV Battery Manufacturer, CATL, in Ningde, China, for discussions on a potential partnership. 

    This was contained in a brief statement to journalists at the State House by Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action (SPEC), Ajuri Ngelale. 

    The Nigerian team, including Nasarawa Governor Abdullahi Sule and InfraCorp MD Dr. Lazarus Angbazo, toured CATL’s facilities and engaged with the company’s Executive Management to discuss a potential partnership for Nigeria’s renewable energy technology manufacturing zone, Evergreen City.

    The proposed collaboration aims to leverage CATL’s technologies and financing platforms to support the development of Evergreen City, which is rich in lithium, a key component in EV battery production.

    The partnership has the potential to supply major companies like Tesla and BMW, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s renewable energy journey.”Early Wednesday morning in Ningde, China, in my capacity as the Chairman of the Presidential Steering Committee on Project Evergreen, I joined the team overseeing the execution of Nigeria’s renewable energy technology manufacturing zone, Evergreen City, which includes the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, H.E. Abdullahi Sule, and the Managing Director/CEO of the Infrastructure Corporation of Nigeria (InfraCorp), Dr. Lazarus Angbazo, on a working visit to the Global Headquarters of the world’s largest EV Battery Manufacturer, CATL.

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    “We began with a tour of their facilities, which provided a window into the company’s history, present, and future development plans. We were given a no-photographs-allowed tour of the automated production lines, which were an inspiring marvel to behold.

    “After the tour, our team interfaced with CATL’s Executive Management and apprised them of our zone’s progress with a detailed view into what our collaboration would entail. They responded with a very diligently composed presentation of how their technologies and associated financing platforms can be tailored to the unique requirements of Evergreen City. 

    “The Nasarawa State Governor detailed local policy and how the partnership will be supported at the sub-national level while I communicated the vision of the zone in the context of the specific technologies being produced by CATL. InfraCorp MD, Dr. Lazarus Angbazo, asked pertinent questions about their proposed concepts of collaboration. We all agreed on finite next steps.

    “We are thrilled about the opportunity to site the EV Battery Manufacturer supplying Tesla, BMW, and others within our Lithium-rich zone. But we have a lot of work to do before any of us will be celebrating.

    “We will keep Nigerians updated on developments as they occur”, Ngelale said.

  • Land tenure and Nigeria’s economy

    Land tenure and Nigeria’s economy

    • By Opebiyi Beatrice Abosede

    Land is central to human existence. Land is a key asset for livelihood and development globally; there is virtually nothing man does that is not rooted on the land. In other words, all human activities take place on the land. Land plays a crucial role in shaping societies across various dimensions. Economists recognize land as one of society’s three economic fundamentals, along with labor and capital. It is a crucial factor of production, though fixed in nature, immovable and comprises the physical terrestrial surfaces, real estate or property designated by definite geospatial boundaries

    The English philosopher, John Locke in some of his philosophical writings recognized the importance of land, he contended that right to property (land) is not just one of the natural rights of every human, but that it is the first and most important, aside right to life and liberty. John Locke was saying in essence that right to land is natural to humans and, therefore, determines other rights, such as rights to life and liberty, as those without access to land are likely to be subjugated to their fellows. Land is associated with power, prestige, wealth, and social standing. This position still subsists today as attachments to and controversies over land permeate every society and have shaped war and peace, dictatorship, and democracy.

    And because land is pivotal and fundamental to social and economic development of any society, because it is one resource that has generated and attracted widest attention explains why statutes, regulations, policies, bylaws, edicts, conventions, enactments and even beliefs held in respect of it keep on emerging, getting reviewed, repealed, conflicted and even duplicated from time to time, as situation and circumstances demand. All these encompasses what can be described as land governance or simply land tenure system; procedures and relationship, either through legal frameworks or well-defined customs or both, among individuals and groups in matters involving land. Therefore, a legal land tenure system refers to a body of state laws and rules that govern land transactions, cultivation, and use.

    Every community, society, or state has its own land tenure system because land so pervasively underpins human activities and is the object of competition in a number of potentially overlapping ways. In Nigeria, land is governed by the 1978 Land use Act. The Act vested all land in each state of the federation solely in the governor of the state who holds land in trust for the people and so is responsible for the allocation of all land in all urban areas to individuals residing in the state and to organizations for residential, agriculture, commercial and other purposes. Policy makers believe that this would enhance rapid socio-economic transformation of the country through rational land use and administration for the benefit of all Nigerians. Government also intended to halt artificial prices of land as a result of the activities of speculators which was rampant in urban areas, as well as accelerate economic development by making it easier for governments and the people to have more access to land among other reasons.

    Over the years, the Act has become a subject of controversy, with Section 3 the most contentious. The section assigns to the governor a seemingly enormous power to designate by order, parts of non-urban areas of the state to become urban area and, by so doing, extend the frontiers of urban, thereby enlarging the governor’s influence, and thus making some ambitious governors semi gods in their domains. Overzealous ones have hidden under the controversial section to harass and intimidate perceived political opponents either by revoking their Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) or by confiscating their title deeds on legitimately acquired land.

    Against the backdrop that overwhelming majority of Nigerians have no other source of income and livelihood, save the one derivable from land through subsistence farming or disposal to earn income for business or family needs, this dispossession has plunged so many into poverty rather than prosperity. That is to say, land tenure regime in Nigeria has failed to ensure prosperity. Contrary to the purpose of enacting the decree, which was to make land available to all for housing and economic development, the Act has rather prevented access to land for majority especially for development, as many state governments are holding on to land under the guise of compulsory acquisition for proposed development

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    Another critical challenge of the Land Use Act is its impact on housing and real estate development in Nigeria. One of the basic necessities of life is housing. How would a man survive without shelter, refuge, and comfort? His dignity is eroded in the absence of shelter. Forty-five years after its enactment, can we say the Act has truly facilitated housing provision?  The leasehold interest on land conveyed under the Act by the state, also reduces the investment potential of the land to the would-be investors and promotes a cash and carry ideology, as a title holder is usually looking at making immediate gains on the land. The problems and challenges in land acquisition and securing the approval of Certificate of Occupancy remain worrisome. At the commencement of the Land Use Act 1978, it was stated that “whereas it is in the public interest that the rights of all Nigerians to the land of Nigeria be asserted and preserved by law”, this has not been the case.

    The process of acquiring title and documentation is complex, cumbersome, complicated, prolonged and has become discouraging and disincentive to land ownership, especially for investment.

    Rather than being a catalyst to socio-economic development therefore, the Act has become a hindrance to growth and development.

    The time for a review in tune with current realities is long overdue. Fettered with institutional failure, dearth of political will and inherent defects, the law has not been able to achieve most of its objectives. Notwithstanding, the desire for economic development through effective, fair and equitable utilization of land and land resources can still be attained if the law is holistically amended to overturn certain anachronistic and antithetical provisions and replaced with realistic and effective policies that would put Nigeria on the path of economic progress. The sections of the Act which are not in tandem with modern trends should also be thrown out. If this is done, it would go a long way in bringing about sanity in land tenure, ownership and acquisition as well as housing provision in Nigeria. The government must take urgent steps to remove this aspect of our laws which still wears a military helmet.

    One of the central objectives of the Land Use Act which is to make land readily available at an affordable rate to all Nigerians has not been achieved

    The review of the Land Use Act is long overdue because it holds the key to economic development and people’s wellbeing. Availability and easy access to land encourage investment which creates both wealth and jobs for the people. The Act has failed to solve the problem of land availability, neither has it boosted agricultural production, housing and real estate development.

    • Opebiyi is an estate surveyor and valuer based in Lagos.
  • ‘Why documents from Nigeria are not trusted overseas’

    ‘Why documents from Nigeria are not trusted overseas’

    Fikayo Durosinmi-Etti, a lawyer, leads the team at ToNote – a SaaS company offering a remote online notary solution. He spoke with ADEBISI ONANUGA on how to enhance trust in the document authentication process.

    Why documents from Nigeria are not trusted overseas’

    The Society for Notaries Public (TSNP) in collaboration with ToNote have introduced the concept of electronic signing and online notarisation of documents that require authentication. Tell us more about this novel digital solution that you introduced to the notary practice?

    We are thrilled to have been able to partner with the legal visionaries behind The Society for Notaries Public (TSNP) to launch this initiative. Our collaboration with TSNP and support from the Supreme Court has helped us create an infrastructure to ensure that only highly trained, Supreme Court Certified notaries are able to connect with and serve our customers.

    Our remote online notary (RON) product allows individuals and businesses, anywhere in the world, connect with notaries who are able to treat their documents on demand, via video conference. Documents such as forms, deeds of sale, transcripts, certificates, affidavits and much more can be authenticated on the system.

    While on the session, which lasts an average of eight minutes, document owners and notaries are able to sign and seal documents where necessary, in real time and in each other’s presence. The document is then made available immediately after the session, with wet ink physical copies available for dispatch upon request. All notaries and documents are easily verifiable by any third party.

    Notarial practice has been around in Nigeria for several decades, what informed this innovation?

    The notarial practice in Nigeria has been under attack for a long time. Notaries often relax when it comes to compliance with notarial laws, while some are outright impostors impersonating a notary or using forged or stolen seals. On the other hand, document owners take advantage of the laxity of notaries and also fail to adhere to simple rules such as actually being in the presence of the notary so their identities can be verified. These seemingly simple missteps, among others, have led to an increase in the number of Nigerian owned false records being passed around locally and internationally.

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    The result of this; Nigerian notaries are undervalued and distrusted globally. Nigerians and Nigerian businesses face transaction delays and failures simply because their documentation is not trusted and cannot be verified.

    Can you expatiate on those negative impacts and the ways to tackle them?

    Sure. Everything I am about to mention will ultimately result in higher levels of trust in Nigerian documents.

    What are the problems?

    Right now highly trained and authentic notaries are not accessible. There are a lot of impostors posing as notaries.

    How can we curtail their activities?

    ToNotes RON platform provides access to only pre-vetted and trained Supreme Court certified notaries. Document owners rarely appear in the presence of notaries and identity of document owner can seldom be tied to the document.

    So, what is the way out?

    ToNote has an identity verification feature that verifies the identity of every document owner. Documents can be executed in real time and in the presence of the notary, during the virtual session.

    How do these people forge documents?

    Documents can be forged easily with image editing tools. There is no way of verifying who authenticated the document and if it was done legally.

    What is the solution to this?

     All notaries, and documents generated on the system, have unique IDs and are verifiable.

     Each document comes with a transaction certificate and audit trail that acts as proof of every participant in each session and records every action that takes place on each session, making the document tamper proof. Also, every session is recorded for audit purposes.

    What do we do about people who might not care and continue to disregard compliance guidelines.

    The solution to this is that the Society for Notaries, in collaboration with the Supreme Court and ToNote will begin to educate, monitor and enforce notarial best practices amongst notaries, businesses and institutions. A strategy has been prepared for this. Some of the solutions above mean that regardless of where the receiving entity for a document is, they can verify its authenticity in seconds, and trust that document.

    So, what steps have TSNP and ToNote taken to ensure global best practice in notary public activities?

    We spearheaded efforts to amend the ‘Evidence Act’ and the ‘Notaries Public Act’. These amended laws now incorporate the use of technology during authentication processes and acceptability of electronic documents within legal systems.

    We also continue to engage and collaborate with the Supreme Court to outline strategies for notarial education, monitoring and enforcement to ensure strict compliance and enhance trust across the globe. We will continue to sensitise and make announcements on our progress, while carrying the right stakeholders along, as we reduce the number of false records in circulation and ensure that trust is restored to Nigerian documentation.