Eshanekpe Israel, known as Akpodoro, the Mayor of Urhoboland and head of the Association of Family Mayoral Crown (AFMC), has warmly welcomed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu back from his two-week vacation. Expressing hope that the break allowed the President to identify non-performing members of his cabinet, Akpodoro called for necessary action to remove them.

During a stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja over the weekend, Akpodoro conveyed his excitement over Tinubu’s healthy return. He urged Nigerians to refrain from wishing ill upon the President, emphasizing that he was democratically elected in the 2023 presidential election. He referenced the biblical adage, “the voice of the people is the voice of God,” to underline the importance of respecting the electoral process.

Urgent Call for Ministerial Accountability

“Now that the President is back, he should expedite action in sacking all non-performing Ministers,” Akpodoro stated. He accused certain ministers of deliberately underperforming, suggesting that their actions could sabotage Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He advocated for a cabinet reshuffle, highlighting the need for fresh talent to help the President realize his vision for the nation. “Tinubu cannot do it alone,” he said, emphasizing that capable individuals are essential for building a stronger, more unified, and functional Nigeria.

Engaging Younger Generations

Akpodoro further noted that several ministries are crucial to national development and should not be managed by underperforming individuals. He pointed out the readiness of younger Nigerians to contribute meaningfully to the country’s progress.

In his address, the Mayor urged Nigerians across various sectors—including students, labor unions, market women, and civil society organizations—to remain patient with the government. He emphasized the need for unity and collaboration in overcoming the nation’s challenges.

Importance of Communication

Akpodoro called on the National Orientation Agency (NOA) and other relevant bodies to improve communication regarding the policies and programs of the Renewed Hope Agenda. He stressed that it is the responsibility of government agencies to explain these policies to the public in order to counter misinformation and prevent the spread of fake news by agents of discord.

Conclusion

In summary, Mayor Akpodoro’s welcome message to President Tinubu encapsulates a call for accountability and effective governance. His advocacy for a cabinet reshuffle, engagement of younger generations, and improved communication highlights the necessity for cohesive action and public support in achieving the President’s vision for Nigeria.

Pharm. Klinsmann, a prominent figure within the All Progressives Congress (APC), has issued a strong plea in response to the controversial signing of the Anambra Local Government Administration Law 2024 by Governor Charles Soludo. Klinsmann, along with several legal and policy experts, views the new law as a direct challenge to the autonomy of local governments as affirmed by the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

In a press statement released today, Klinsmann warned that allowing Soludo’s actions to stand could set a dangerous precedent, potentially inviting other state governors to undermine the progress made in granting full autonomy to the 774 local government areas in Nigeria. He emphasized, “If Soludo’s scheme succeeds, we will be back to square one, and local governments will once again fall under the stranglehold of state governors.”

A Call to Action

Klinsmann has urged Nigerians to stand firm against any governor attempting to erode local government autonomy, characterizing such attempts as threats to the people’s welfare. “Any governor who seeks to contravene the Supreme Court’s judgment on local government autonomy is an enemy of the people, and should be treated as such,” he asserted.

He stressed that local government autonomy is critical to grassroots development and significantly impacts the daily lives of citizens. Klinsmann urged Nigerians to be prepared to protest en masse, emphasizing that the autonomy of local governments is essential to resolving many of Nigeria’s developmental challenges.

Upholding the Supreme Court’s Ruling

Klinsmann reminded Governor Soludo that regardless of how “clever” his legal arguments may appear, the Supreme Court’s judgment is final and binding. He pointed to the July 2024 ruling delivered by Justice Emmanuel Agim, which asserted that local governments must receive their allocations directly from the Accountant-General of the Federation without interference from state governments. This ruling deemed the longstanding practice of withholding or controlling local government funds through joint accounts as illegal and unconstitutional.

He declared that no state law, including the Anambra Local Government Administration Law 2024, can supersede the Supreme Court’s judgment, labeling Soludo’s law as “ultra vires” and a violation of the Supreme Court’s ruling. “Soludo’s action is nothing short of impunity. It is a calculated attempt to weaken the financial independence of Anambra’s local governments, and it must be resisted at all costs,” Klinsmann asserted.

The Implications of the Supreme Court Ruling

Pharm. Klinsmann elaborated on the implications of the Supreme Court’s ruling, which recognized the financial autonomy of local governments. The Court’s decision concluded that state governors can no longer control or receive funds allocated to local governments and nullified the joint state-local government accounts historically used by governors to siphon off local government funds. He reiterated that the ruling aims to promote justice, efficiency, and accountability within local governance.

Additionally, Klinsmann pointed out that the Supreme Court also declared the appointment of caretaker committees by state governors to manage local governments as unconstitutional. The ruling underscored the necessity for local governments to be governed by democratically elected officials, rather than political appointees serving at the discretion of state governors.

In summary, Pharm. Klinsmann’s call to action serves as a rallying cry for Nigerians to defend local government autonomy against perceived governmental overreach. His arguments reinforce the importance of upholding the Supreme Court’s ruling to ensure that local governments can operate independently and effectively, thus fostering grassroots development and enhancing the lives of citizens across Nigeria.

On October 16, 2024, Nigeria faced another devastating tragedy when a petrol tanker overturned near Khadija University in Majiya village, Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State, resulting in the loss of about 140 lives and injuries to another 70 individuals. The disaster unfolded as villagers flocked to the scene to scoop free petrol, leading to a catastrophic explosion that engulfed the area in flames.

Witnessing a petrol tanker explosion evokes sheer terror, confusion, and desperation, where the screams of those trapped in the inferno echo the fear of impending death. The scene is often reminiscent of a nightmarish end-of-the-world scenario, a sight that is tragically becoming all too familiar in Nigeria.

In the aftermath, a typical governmental response ensued, with condolences from President Bola Tinubu, the National Assembly, Governor Umar Namadi, and Shuaibu Hambali, the Chairman of the Taura Local Government Area. Emergency responders, led by the police, hurried to bury victims in mass graves and transport the injured to local hospitals.

This tragedy is not an isolated incident; Nigeria has a long history of petrol tanker accidents. One of the most horrific incidents occurred on October 18, 1998, in Jesse, Delta State, when 1,098 lives were lost while individuals attempted to collect spilled petrol from a fallen tanker.

The Dilemma of Desperation

What compels Nigerians to rush towards fallen fuel tankers, often leading to their own demise? The twin factors of poverty and ignorance play a significant role. With petrol prices exceeding N1,000 per liter, the lure of free petrol becomes irresistible for many. The tragic irony is that this pursuit of short-term gains can lead to catastrophic consequences, as witnessed in the recent incident.

Much of the blame for these recurring tragedies can be attributed to systemic failures within the Nigerian government. Poverty and ignorance have been weaponized, leading vulnerable citizens to chase fleeting opportunities, whether through vote-buying, inducements, or, in this case, the reckless scooping of spilled fuel. The dire need for immediate relief often overshadows the inherent dangers, resulting in tragic outcomes.

The rational response to a tanker accident should be to flee the scene, yet the harsh reality is that many feel compelled to risk their lives for a momentary gain.

The Call for Better Governance

To prevent such tragedies, the Nigerian government must take decisive action. There is an urgent need to return to safer practices for distributing petroleum products, such as through pipelines and railways, as is standard in many developed nations. Furthermore, the country’s roads must be repaired, and the trucking industry should be effectively regulated to ensure that only qualified professionals handle fuel tanker operations.

Good governance involves not only responding to tragedies but actively working to prevent them. By addressing the root causes of these accidents—poverty, ignorance, and the lack of effective regulation—Nigeria can begin to foster a safer environment for its citizens. It is imperative that the government instills a greater awareness of the dangers associated with fuel tanker accidents, encouraging people to prioritize safety over short-term gains.

One of the significant challenges facing Nigeria’s democracy is the political class’s tendency to engage in petty politics when serious introspection and collective action are urgently needed. This is particularly evident in Zamfara State, where ongoing political squabbles, particularly from the PDP (People’s Democratic Party), are overshadowing critical issues like security and governance.

The current political landscape in Zamfara has been marred by continuous attacks on Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defense, primarily from the PDP and Governor Dauda Lawal Dare. These distractions are alarming, especially given the dire security crisis plaguing Zamfara and the broader North-West region of Nigeria, where banditry, kidnappings, and lawlessness have caused immense suffering for innocent citizens.

Instead of focusing on solutions to these pressing security challenges, the PDP’s relentless political bickering—calling for Matawalle’s resignation based on unsubstantiated claims—has only exacerbated divisions within the region. This politicization of the fight against banditry is not only reckless but also counterproductive.

While political engagement is a cornerstone of democracy, the ongoing bitter exchanges divert attention from the critical task of ensuring the safety and security of Zamfara’s citizens. The unprecedented rise in criminal activities should motivate political actors to unite in governance rather than engage in fruitless accusations. The people of Zamfara deserve a political environment that prioritizes their safety and well-being.

Amidst the criticisms, it is commendable that Matawalle remains dedicated to the fight against banditry, overseeing notable advancements in military operations in collaboration with the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa. Their decision to relocate the operational command base to Sokoto signifies a strategic move to intensify military efforts under the Hadarim Daji operation. This initiative has resulted in significant successes, including the elimination of notorious bandit leader Halilu Sububu, who had long terrorized the region.

The least that stakeholders, regardless of political affiliation, can do is to acknowledge these achievements. The PDP’s attempts to undermine Matawalle’s contributions to improving security are an unfortunate manifestation of political chicanery. Criminals do not discriminate based on political allegiance when selecting their victims, and a unified front is essential for effectively combating banditry.

Now, more than ever, it is imperative for the PDP, Governor Dauda, and other political stakeholders to set aside their differences and work collaboratively with the Ministry of Defense to eradicate these criminal elements.

The ongoing efforts by Matawalle, despite the noise and distractions, highlight the need for a concerted effort in military operations and the war against banditry. By touring various military formations and boosting the morale of soldiers, he continues to demonstrate a commitment to the welfare of those engaged in this critical fight. Additionally, the Ministry’s deployment of more military equipment, including aircraft, is a crucial step toward achieving lasting peace in the region.

Instead of framing Matawalle’s actions as mere political maneuvering, stakeholders should recognize the importance of these efforts in the broader context of regional security. The people of Zamfara and the North-West deserve a united front against the pervasive threat of banditry, and it is the responsibility of all political actors to prioritize the safety and well-being of their constituents.

The University of Abuja has taken a significant step towards promoting a regional lingua franca, the Guosa language, to foster unity, stability, and economic growth across West Africa. This initiative is part of the university’s broader mission to enhance communication and collaboration within the diverse linguistic landscape of the region.

Guosa, an indigenous lingua franca developed by Prof. Alex Igbineweka, was highlighted during the 2024 Annual Guosa Language Day celebration held at the university over the weekend. The event served as a platform to raise awareness about the importance of Guosa in bridging communication gaps among various ethnic groups.

Prof. Aisha Maikudi, the Acting Vice Chancellor of the university, underscored the institution’s commitment to promoting Guosa. She stated, “Language is a fundamental aspect of human culture and society. It allows us to share knowledge and understand each other. I believe that the Guosa language uses symbols to foster understanding and unity, which can bring peace and economic growth in West Africa. When we understand each other, there is no need for conflict, benefiting the ECOWAS sub-region overall.”

The university’s linguistics department, led by Dr. Zuwaira Mahe, is actively working on the development and promotion of Guosa. Collaborative efforts with regional and international institutions are in progress to enhance the language’s usage and acceptance.

Prof. Igbineweka, the creator of Guosa, emphasized its potential benefits, including the facilitation of regional trade, tourism, and cultural exchange. He noted that Guosa aims to enhance political stability, democracy, and a sense of identity in West Africa, incorporating elements from over 200 West African languages, including Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, and others.

With the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) comprising 15 countries, the introduction and promotion of Guosa could have far-reaching implications, fostering greater unity and cooperation among member states. The university’s initiative is seen as a vital step towards achieving a more interconnected and harmonious West Africa, where language serves as a bridge rather than a barrier.

The founders of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) have reacted strongly to comments made by General Yakubu Gowon, who led Nigeria during the Civil War. In a recent interview commemorating his 90th birthday, Gowon attributed the unrest in Nigeria, particularly the massacre of over three million Biafrans between 1967 and 1970, to the southeast’s attempts to secede from the country.

Emeka Emekesiri, the founder and vision bearer of the original IPOB, expressed that Gowon’s narrative fails to acknowledge the historical context and root causes of the conflict. Emekesiri stated, “I have always said that if there’s no secession, there wouldn’t be a breakout and there wouldn’t be a question of civil war because it got to the stage that the situation was getting pretty clear that a part of the country, the South-east wanted to secede.”

Emekesiri criticized Gowon for attempting to “hide the truth about the real cause of the war,” asserting that the general’s actions and decisions contributed to the conflict. He recalled Gowon’s admission of being unprepared for the Aburi Agreement meeting in Ghana, where discussions aimed at establishing confederation or regional autonomy for Nigeria took place. According to Emekesiri, Gowon’s failure to implement this agreement was a key factor that led to the outbreak of war.

Addressing Gowon directly, Emekesiri stated, “With due respect, I want to address you as an Elder. You are 90 and do not know when you will depart from this world to face your maker. We expect you to tell the truth.”

Emekesiri clarified that “confederation is not secession,” explaining that it represents a union of self-governing regions. He likened Nigeria’s potential to the United Kingdom, which comprises four nations—Scotland, England, Ireland, and Wales—suggesting that Nigeria could also evolve into a “Great Nigeria” with self-governing regions that respect local autonomy.

This exchange reflects ongoing tensions regarding the historical narrative of the Nigerian Civil War and the lingering impacts of colonialism and national unity in the country. The IPOB’s response serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding issues of identity, governance, and historical memory in Nigeria.

Political office holders, experts, and stakeholders, including Mr. Nyesom Wike, the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, and Prof. Charles Soludo, the Governor of Anambra State, underscored the importance of collaborative investment for the economic development of Abuja during the inaugural Abuja Business and Investment Summit. The summit, held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, had the theme “Optimizing Investments through Partnership.”

The event brought together government officials, industry leaders, heads of foreign missions, development partners, and prospective investors, aimed at showcasing the vast investment potential within Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

In his opening remarks, Wike highlighted the significant opportunities available in various sectors, including agriculture, healthcare, tourism, construction, mining, and renewable energy. He announced that his administration plans to launch nine major projects next week to improve investment conditions in the FCT. “Security is paramount in attracting investors. The safety of our investments is our top priority,” he stated, emphasizing ongoing security measures to create a conducive business environment.

“Abuja is not just the political capital of Nigeria; it is a place of opportunities waiting to be harnessed,” Wike added. He encouraged both local and foreign investors to explore opportunities in real estate, technology, agro-business, and more.

Prof. Charles Soludo, in his keynote speech, expressed concerns regarding Nigeria’s low Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) flows. He emphasized the necessity for Nigerians to support local products, describing foreign companies exiting Nigeria as “opportunistic” firms that quickly move on when challenges arise.

Soludo remarked, “Dear friends, there is what we call the new mercantilism and pseudo-nationalism; it’s both a threat and an opportunity. In today’s world, in many countries, new nationalism is back. Economic nationalism is back; new mercantilism is back.”

The summit aimed to foster collaboration among stakeholders to attract investment and bolster economic growth in Abuja, highlighting the need for a united approach to unlock the region’s potential.

The aspirations of low-income Nigerians for reduced food prices are facing significant obstacles as the zero import duty policy on essential food staples encounters fresh challenges. This initiative, designed to alleviate the burden of rising food costs, appears to be struggling due to a combination of lack of coordination, unclear directives, and persistent agronomic and infrastructural issues.

As inflation continues to surge, impacting the purchasing power of vulnerable citizens, the government’s objectives behind the policy are increasingly undermined. Since President Bola Tinubu took office in May 2023, Nigeria’s inflation rate has been on an upward trajectory, with the latest figures indicating a rise to 33.95% in May 2024, a stark increase from the 22.4% he inherited.

In response to escalating food prices, President Tinubu announced a 150-day duty-free import window for food commodities, hoping to curb food inflation. Despite this initiative, the inflation rate peaked at 34.19% in June 2024 before experiencing a slight decline in July (33.4%) and August (32.15%). However, in September, the rate rebounded to 32.7%, suggesting that the economic hardship for many Nigerians remains severe.

The findings from Financial Vanguard highlight that the anticipated benefits of the zero-duty imports are unlikely to materialize soon. The process of implementing this policy has been hampered by role conflicts among government agencies involved. A significant delay in issuing relevant directives from the Ministry of Finance has compounded the challenges, causing an initial two-month setback.

Additionally, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) revealed that the federal government stands to forgo ₦188.4 billion in revenue over the five-month duration of the duty waiver. This potential loss of revenue has caused unease within both the Ministry of Finance and the Federal Inland Revenue Service, further complicating the policy’s implementation.

As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for the Nigerian government to address these logistical and administrative challenges to ensure that the zero import duty policy effectively serves its purpose of alleviating food prices for the country’s most vulnerable populations. Without timely and coherent action, the hope for lower food prices may remain just that—a hope.

The recent ordeal faced by the Super Eagles in Libya underscores a broader issue regarding the treatment of Nigerians abroad and reflects a troubling mindset within the Libyan leadership. When the Eagles’ aircraft was ordered back into the skies while descending at Benghazi Airport, it marked the beginning of a 17-hour nightmare for the team and officials, who were forced to land at the disused Al-Abraq Airport. This incident raises serious questions about the perception of Nigerians as dispensable in international affairs, particularly in the realm of sports.

The crux of the matter transcends the immediate discomfort experienced by the Eagles. It speaks to a deeper failure of diplomacy and the protection of citizens’ rights by the Nigerian government. The mindset displayed by Libyan authorities suggests a disregard for human dignity and a willingness to prioritize national pride over the safety of foreign guests. Such a situation might not have occurred under the leadership of Muammar Gaddafi, whose regime was characterized by a strong sense of Pan-Africanism and a commitment to protecting Libyan sovereignty.

The plight of the Super Eagles serves as a reminder of Nigeria’s historical silence regarding the West’s actions in Libya. The United States, along with its allies, sought to dismantle Gaddafi’s regime for various reasons, including Libya’s commitment to using its vast wealth for the benefit of its people and its efforts to establish a gold bank for Africa—an initiative that aimed to reduce dependency on the US dollar. Gaddafi’s support for Palestinian rights and his push for a United States of Africa were also seen as threats by Western powers.

Nigerian elites, who benefit from the current status quo, often viewed Libya’s self-sufficiency and wealth redistribution as a challenge to their own interests. As a result, the Nigerian response to the Western onslaught on Libya was largely muted. This silence continued even after the US bombing of Tripoli in 1986, which resulted in the loss of over 70 lives, and during the false accusations against Libya concerning the Pan Am Flight 103 bombing.

Perhaps most concerning was Nigeria’s support for the NATO-led invasion of Libya in 2011. At a critical juncture, the Nigerian representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Joy Ogwu, voted in favor of military intervention, effectively endorsing the dismantling of a sovereign state. This decision not only contributed to Libya’s current chaos but also reflected a failure to defend African unity and sovereignty against external aggression.

The Super Eagles’ situation is emblematic of a larger narrative—one where the failure to stand up for fellow Africans has dire consequences, both at home and abroad. As the continent grapples with its challenges, it is imperative for African nations, including Nigeria, to reflect on their foreign policy and consider the implications of their silence in the face of injustice. The need for a unified and dignified response to external pressures has never been more urgent.

Perception is everything, shaping how individuals and entities are viewed. For Africa, marketing the continent to the rest of the world has been an ongoing challenge, predominantly due to the persistent negative stories and narratives that dominate media coverage. This portrayal has often highlighted issues like diseases, corruption, bad leadership, war, poverty, and hunger, undermining the continent’s vast potential for strength and growth. A recent study cited on the Instagram page of Earn Your Leisure reveals that this negative narrative has cost African economies an estimated $4.2 billion annually.

Worryingly, many Africans contribute to these negative depictions through movies and storytelling, further entrenching stereotypes that depict the continent as a “miserable environment.” This misrepresentation not only discourages potential investors but also distracts from Africa’s immense opportunities in sectors such as agriculture, tourism, culture, and its youthful population.

In response to this pressing issue, Olori Atuwatse III, the Queen Consort of Warri Kingdom, founded the Elevate Africa project to promote positive narratives about the continent. The project’s mission is to enhance Africa’s self-image and global perception, fostering a dignified and collaborative Africa that takes pride in its identity on the global stage.

The initiative aims to spotlight and empower a new generation of African leaders and indigenous solutions to shared challenges, enhancing collaboration within and beyond the continent to drive socio-economic advancement and narrative transformation.

The recent two-day convening, organized under the Elevate Africa banner, attracted notable personalities from across Africa and beyond. During the event, Olori Atuwatse III emphasized the power of storytelling in shaping identities and the importance of reframing the continent’s narrative. She highlighted that, despite the daunting challenges facing Africa, gathering the best minds across the continent could lead to innovative solutions to these issues.

“This gathering is not merely an assembly of intellectuals,” she stated. “It serves as a platform to stimulate minds, encourage innovation, and uncover African ideas that can address pressing issues in education, gender equality, economic growth, decent work, and climate change.”

Through the Elevate Africa project, Olori Atuwatse III envisions a united effort to redefine how the continent is perceived, promoting a narrative that focuses on Africa’s strengths, successes, and endless possibilities for growth and development.

In a significant step towards sustainability and reducing carbon emissions, MTN Nigeria Communications Plc has launched the pilot scheme for its paper-based biodegradable eco-friendly SIM cards. This initiative aligns with the company’s Project Zero goals, aimed at achieving net-zero emissions by 2040.

In a statement released last weekend, MTN emphasized that the biodegradable SIM cards are environmentally safer as they promote product lifecycle management that encourages circularity and minimizes waste. By gradually phasing out plastic-based SIM cards, MTN aims to make a substantial contribution to preventing plastic pollution while demonstrating its commitment to integrating sustainable practices into its operations.

“This initiative, driven through a local supplier, reflects MTN’s commitment to empowering local businesses and boosting economic growth through sustainable partnerships,” the statement highlighted.

During the launch event held at MTN’s office in Lagos, Tobe Okigbo, Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer, remarked on the advantages of the new biodegradable SIM cards compared to traditional Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) plastic cards. He noted that these eco-friendly alternatives can naturally biodegrade and are recyclable, significantly reducing waste pollution and lowering the carbon emissions footprint during both production and disposal.

“Our new eco-friendly SIM cards represent part of our continuous commitment to environmental responsibility,” Okigbo stated. “They not only reduce waste but also support local Nigerian vendors and integrate sustainability into our business operations and the daily lives of our customers.”

Adekemi Adisa, General Manager of Sustainability and Shared Value at MTN, also expressed the company’s dedication to innovative sustainability measures. “The launch of our recyclable SIM cards embodies our commitment to sustainability, encouraging our customers to make eco-friendly choices, reducing waste, and paving the way for a more environmentally conscious future for Nigerians,” Adisa said.

This initiative marks a notable advancement in MTN’s efforts to address environmental challenges and foster sustainable development in Nigeria.

The Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) has urged the Federal Government to take immediate action to halt the escalating petrol prices and the rapid depreciation of the nation’s currency, warning that these issues could lead to mass unrest.

Dr. Makolo Hassan, the President of NASU, expressed these concerns during the union’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Abuja over the weekend. He highlighted that the rising cost of fuel has driven up transportation and production expenses, exacerbating inflation across the country.

Dr. Hassan stated, “Nigeria’s abundant crude oil, which should have been a blessing, has instead made the nation’s economy highly vulnerable to fluctuations in global oil prices.” He criticized the over-dependence on oil, asserting that it has prevented sustainable economic growth and left the nation exposed to external shocks, resulting in persistent economic instability.

Despite years of discussions aimed at diversifying the economy into sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and technology, Dr. Hassan lamented the lack of meaningful progress. He remarked, “The much talked-about diversification remains a mirage, with insufficient investments and policies to meaningfully shift away from oil dependency, leaving Nigeria’s economy stuck in a cycle of boom and bust dictated by volatile global oil markets.”

He further pointed out that the continuous increase in petroleum product prices is heavily influenced by the non-functional state of government refineries. This reliance on fuel imports, despite being a major oil producer, has led to significant burdens on both the economy and consumers. The current situation has politicized the ongoing petrol subsidy debate, complicating efforts to find sustainable solutions.

Dr. Hassan mentioned the Dangote Refinery, which was expected to alleviate some of these challenges but faces complexities related to Nigeria’s regulatory environment and the petroleum industry’s entrenched interests. He called for urgent governmental intervention to stabilize the economy and prevent a potential crisis.

The Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Foundation (SMYF) has urged the federal government to prioritize the needs and interests of the Niger Delta people in Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan (ETP). This call was made during a stakeholder roundtable event in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, focused on ensuring an inclusive energy transition for the region.

Mr. Amara Nwankpa, the Foundation’s Director for Partnerships and Development, highlighted the critical importance of addressing the concerns of communities most affected by the shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy. He lamented that the ongoing energy transition planning had not adequately engaged these communities, which are essential for capturing their challenges and needs.

“Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan must take into account the needs of the Niger Delta region, which is directly impacted. Adequate engagement with these communities is essential, yet this has not been sufficiently done,” Nwankpa stated. He emphasized that understanding the energy challenges faced by these communities is crucial for ensuring a fair and equitable transition.

Nwankpa further cautioned that as the global shift toward renewable energy accelerates, the Niger Delta could suffer significant adverse effects if its specific energy needs are not addressed.

Mr. Nnimmo Bassey, Director of the Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF), also spoke at the event, emphasizing the necessity of energy transition in addressing Nigeria’s power challenges. He advocated for the development of community-based power systems that are clean, efficient, and independent of the national grid.

“Many of our communities are still not connected to the national grid, and the world is moving away from centralized energy systems. We need power solutions tailored to meet the specific needs of communities, managed by the communities themselves,” Bassey remarked. He expressed concern over the frequent collapses of Nigeria’s national grid, highlighting its inability to sustain the current power generation of under 4,000 megawatts.

“The frequent collapse of the national grid is troubling. If the current capacity cannot be sustained, how will the system cope with more electricity? This is why community-based power solutions are vital,” he added.

Bassey concluded by stressing the need for comprehensive reforms across Nigeria’s economic, political, and cultural systems, noting that energy transition alone would not resolve the country’s multifaceted challenges. “We need changes across the board, not just in energy, but in our economic, political, and cultural systems as well,” he said.

President Bola Tinubu has pledged his support for Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State, emphasizing the importance of making a positive impact on the lives of Ekiti residents. Tinubu made this commitment during a thanksgiving service held in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, to commemorate Oyebanji’s second anniversary in office at the Cathedral Church, Anglican Communion, Okesa.

The event was attended by notable figures, including former governors Niyi Adebayo, Ayodele Fayose, and Kayode Fayemi, alongside both Christian and Muslim clerics who offered prayers for the governor and the state government.

Representing the President, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele expressed admiration for Oyebanji’s leadership style and the significant strides made in developing the state. He stated, “I don’t want to stand here and tell the Governor that the President loves him; you know he loves you and supports you.” Bamidele also addressed concerns about the new flyover construction project, assuring attendees that Oyebanji is receiving special presidential intervention for such initiatives.

Bamidele praised Oyebanji’s governance, asserting, “We don’t need any clairvoyance to tell us that our governor has performed well. He has served well and deserves our support to succeed.” He also noted that Ekiti would be the first state where all APC members and political leaders would come together to select a consensus candidate for the governorship.

He encouraged Oyebanji to remain focused and not be distracted by political games, urging him to continue working diligently for the people of Ekiti.

In response, Governor Oyebanji expressed gratitude to God for His mercy and provision for the state during his tenure, singing songs of praise to acknowledge the support and blessings received.

Africa’s agriculture sector is poised to create pathways for sustainable food security at the upcoming annual Agriculture Summit Africa (ASA) 2024, scheduled for November 11 in Abuja. This seventh edition of the summit is themed “Transitioning from Scarcity to Security,” and it comes at a crucial moment as the continent grapples with unprecedented food inflation and supply chain disruptions.

ASA 2024 will convene delegates from 30 countries to develop actionable strategies aimed at transforming Africa’s agricultural sector into a multi-trillion-dollar powerhouse.

An impressive lineup of speakers is set to feature at the summit, including Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima, Dr. Yemi Kale, the Group Chief Economist at Afreximbank, and Michael Sudarkasa, CEO of the Africa Business Group.

Dr. Shola Obikanye, Group Head of Agric and Solid Minerals Finance at Sterling Bank, remarked, “ASA 2024 is not just another conference—it’s a clarion call for an agricultural revolution in Africa.” He emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating, “We’re bringing together the brightest minds and most influential players in African agriculture to forge strategies that will not only address our current food security crisis but propel our agricultural sector into a new era of prosperity and sustainability.”

The summit’s agenda has been meticulously crafted to tackle the most pressing issues facing African agriculture today. Notably, ASA 2024 will feature its first-ever all-women panel on “Empowering Women in Agriculture,” recognizing the vital role women play in the continent’s food systems.

Vice President Shettima is expected to unveil Nigeria’s ambitious plans for agricultural transformation, while Dr. Kale will provide crucial economic insights on leveraging financial instruments to enhance agricultural productivity amidst rising inflation. Michael Sudarkasa’s involvement will offer valuable perspectives on private sector engagement and investment in African agriculture.

ASA 2024 aims to be a transformative event, fostering collaboration and innovation in a sector that is critical to the continent’s future prosperity.

The Law Alumni Association of Olabisi Onabanjo University (2008/2009), affectionately known as Brave 600+, has extended heartfelt congratulations to one of their esteemed members, Ademola Abimbola SAN MICarb, following his recent conferment as the second Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) from their class.

In a statement signed by Mrs. Florence Omolola Jones-Idowu Esq., the president of the Law Alumni Association, the group expressed immense pride in Abimbola’s achievement, highlighting that he was honored on September 30, 2024, as the second SAN among almost 700 lawyers who graduated in their cohort.

The statement read in part: “On behalf of all members, the Executives, and the Board of Trustees, we hereby congratulate Ademola Abimbola (SAN MCIarb) of Brave 600+ for his award as the 2nd SAN of the class.”

Reflecting on Abimbola’s remarkable journey, the association noted his exceptional determination and academic brilliance during their time at Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ogun State. His outstanding performance in law class paved the way for a distinguished career in advocacy, culminating in his elevation to the prestigious rank of SAN.

The alumni association commended Abimbola for achieving this significant milestone ahead of the upcoming 15-year post-graduation ceremony and the BRAVE Awards scheduled for December 2024. They further emphasized his exemplary qualities as a student, stating, “Ademola Abimbola SAN MCIarb was a determined and brilliant student during our university days in OOU aka OSU.”

In closing, the association joined the chorus of well-wishers, including family and friends, congratulating Abimbola on his remarkable accomplishment, which he received during an intimate ceremony with the president of the alumni association.