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By Uzair Adam

Concerns have risen following a fire outbreak at Kano’s famous Kantin Kwari Market, with the market union pledging to implement measures to prevent future fire incidents.

It wasreported that the fire broke out around 8:00 p.m., shortly after the Isha evening prayers, where two shops were completely destroyed, with goods worth millions of naira reduced to ashes.

The fire, according to the Kano State Fire Service, believed to have been caused by a solar electricity fault, began at Gidan Inuwa Maimai on Bayajidda Street and spread, affecting 13 shops out of around 100 in the building.

Shamsuddini Gambo, a trader, explained that the fire was quickly brought under control due to the swift response of the market’s fire service.

Bashir Alhassan, one of the affected shop owners, confirmed that while only two shops were completely destroyed, “around 13 shops, including mine, were partially damaged by the water used to extinguish the fire.

“Apart from Alhaji Zayyanu and Alhaji Tahir’s shops, no others were severely damaged.”

Hoodlums attempt looting

As the fire raged, hoodlums reportedly gathered, armed with weapons, attempting to steal goods from the affected shops.

Alhassan noted that police swiftly intervened, dispersing the would-be thieves.

“While we were trying to save our goods from the fire, these criminals appeared, attempting to steal from us. Thankfully, the police overpowered them and foiled their plan,” Alhassan added.

Market union to address fire outbreaks

Anas Muhammad Zango, the Public Relations Officer of the Kantin Kwari Market Union, speaking on behalf of the union’s chairman, Alhaji Sa’adu Mu’azu Dogon Nama, expressed sympathy for the victims.

He assured that the union is implementing steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.“One of the key measures is the immediate removal of gas cylinders used by food vendors within the market. Additionally, shop owners using generators must relocate them outside the market,” Zango explained.

He also expressed gratitude that the damage was not worse and urged traders to cooperate with the police and fire services to maintain a safer market environment.

Solar power blamed for fireAccording to Saminu Yusif, the Kano State Fire Service’s Public Relations Officer, the fire was traced back to a fault in the solar electricity system.

“At the time of the fire, there was no public electricity supply in the area, so it was easy to trace the cause to the solar system,” he stated.

Yusif added that while 13 shops were affected, 11 of the shop owners managed to save their goods, with only two shops being completely destroyed.

Dear Nigerians,  

1. May God have mercy on you! Your country’s name evokes the abundance of the River Niger, symbolising the endless resources and talents you possess. This nation is blessed with natural wealth and human potential that garners admiration and envy worldwide. 

2. Yet, tears fall when we consider the mismanagement, waste, and looting of this vibrant nation. It’s disheartening to see Nigerian youths unaware of the treasures surrounding them. Who will inherit this great wealth? Where are the competent young leaders to take over when the current generation finally acknowledges its fatigue?

3.  An effective national curriculum should focus on the aspirations and values of the youth. Nigerian youths should be more than seekers of white-collar jobs; they should harness the nation’s real wealth. Ignorance of one’s resources is a grave form of slavery. The curriculum must evolve to cultivate dignity and progress, preparing future nation-builders.

4. Imagine if Nigerians refrained from destructive desires, top to bottom. These desires only ruin their possessors and the entire nation, destabilising not just Nigeria but the region. What would be lost if corruption ceased? Crimes harm the country and ultimately lead to personal ruin.

5. Despite challenges, Nigeria still holds immense potential if its people unite in nation-building. Respect and kindness across ethnic lines won’t harm anyone. Being good neighbours to one another will ensure that no one suffers amid abundance.

6. It’s not easy to forget historical hurts, but healing is necessary to dream big. I dream of a Nigeria that sheds its negative image and becomes a beacon of resilience, talent, and beauty. We can achieve this dream with patience, optimism, and the will to be good.

7. Let the brave ones from every region come forward. Whether in rags or adorned in gold, it’s the mind that matters. Your willingness to embrace reform reflects the people’s hope. Learn about your nation, not just from social media but from its history and potential.

8. There is hope for Nigeria. Nations with more severe problems have risen. Remember, you hold the most powerful office: the Office of the Citizen. Decorate it with action, not despair. If Nigeria isn’t working, it’s because we aren’t working.

9. Weak minds say, “There is no hope.” Strong minds respond, “We have work to do.” Nigeria is the office of every Nigerian. If progress is absent, it’s because we aren’t active. Be inspired and make progress in Nigeria, which is your first concern.

10. Nigeria has served as a beacon of hope for other nations and has the potential to do so again. I have witnessed the kindness, wisdom, and vision of many Nigerians. Goodness is locked within the nation—are you the one to awaken it?

11. If you are, be patient. Don’t let anger or frustration lead to violence. Dedicate yourself to the dream of reform, and one day, you will wipe away the tears of your people.

12. Praise God for making you a Nigerian. Reform begins with you. Even if you only change one person, the impact will be immeasurable. Don’t give up if you find people obsessed with crime and corruption.

13. Your good deeds, endurance, and sacrifices inspire those around you. Continue to educate, alleviate pain, and instil hope. The people are not as bad as they seem; many are ignorant or traumatised.

14. Mass education, not violence or migration, is the answer. Enlightenment will help people learn from the tragedies of war-torn regions.

15.No matter how far you run, home will always call you back. The time to act is now!

Amara Sesay wrote via amarasesay.amir@gmail.com.

By Anas Abbas

Nigerians are grappling with the harsh realities of rising food prices and crippling inflation, largely attributed to the removal of fuel subsidy by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

This policy shift, which many see as the primary driver of the current economic hardships, has compounded the challenges Nigerians faced during the previous administration.

Now, more than ever, the cost of living has become unbearable for many.

The Daily Reality has gathered that the business community is also struggling to stay afloat.

Entrepreneurs are battling to maintain profit margins as operational costs continue to soar.

This has sparked widespread calls for government intervention, as many consumers believe the rise in food prices is excessive and, in some cases, artificially inflated by market forces.

Painful outcries

The surge in food prices has left many ordinary Nigerians, not only in Kano, in dire straits.

In a series of interviews conducted by The Daily Reality in Kano, citizens revealed how the price hikes have made basic necessities unaffordable, forcing some families to cut back on meals.

“I can no longer provide three meals a day for my family. Sometimes, we go to bed hungry,” said Mrs. Aisha Yahaya, a mother of five.

“Before, a bag of rice was N50,000, now it’s N90,000. How can I afford that on my meager pension?,” lamented a retired civil servant.

A visit to Singer Market painted a bleak picture. Once bustling with activity, the market now has a somber atmosphere, with many stalls closed and traders struggling to make sales.

Customers, too, appeared despondent, unable to afford the inflated prices.”The price hike has ruined our lives. We can’t sell, we can’t buy. We’re just surviving,” said one trader, who preferred to remain anonymous.

Price hike beyond our control

Alhaji Samaila, Managing Director of Hamir Investment, explained that the rising prices are not the fault of traders, but a result of the market’s dynamics.

“When goods become scarce in the market, those who have stock take advantage and raise prices beyond reasonable levels,” he said.

Samaila also pointed out that companies often increase prices without notifying their customers, exacerbating the situation.

“This has led to commodities increasing by as much as 20% to 50%,” he added.

Unregulated market leads to price exploitation

The Daily Reality found that the lack of government intervention and regulation has allowed traders in Singer Market to set prices arbitrarily.

This “open market” situation has created a breeding ground for price exploitation, where traders take advantage of scarcity to inflate prices.

The absence of a regulatory framework has left consumers vulnerable, with market prices often dictated by who can pay the most, rather than by genuine market forces like supply and demand.

Traders forced out by price instability

The instability in prices has not only affected consumers but also forced some traders out of business.

With the rising cost of goods and dwindling capital, many traders are finding it increasingly difficult to continue operations.

Alhaji Samaila lamented the impact of the economic downturn on sales and investments.

He shared that a regular customer who previously purchased goods worth N2.5 million now struggles to make ends meet.

“The uncertainty in pricing has led to suspicions of price gouging, and the overall trust in the market system is eroding,” he said.

A call for intervention

Barr. Junaidu Muhammad Zakari, Managing Director of Singer Market, has called for urgent government intervention to curb the escalating prices.

He attributed the hike primarily to the removal of fuel subsidies, but also highlighted other contributing factors such as poor agricultural output and over-reliance on foreign goods.

Zakari urged the government to take proactive measures, including improving the agricultural sector, promoting local competition, and licensing more companies to produce goods domestically.

This, he said, would reduce the pressure on imports and stabilize prices.

A way forward

Zakari noted that the removal of fuel subsidies has had a devastating impact not just on Singer Market but across Nigeria.

To address this, he called for the establishment of a price regulatory body that can monitor and control prices, ensuring they remain fair and reasonable for both businesses and consumers.

“The current situation is unsustainable. Without proper regulation, the price hike will continue to cripple businesses and impoverish consumers. The government must act now to create a fair and equitable market environment,” Zakari warned.

Anti-corruption commission steps in

Muhi Rimin Gado, Managing Director of the Public Complaint and Anti-Corruption Commission, also weighed in on the issue, expressing the need for immediate action to address the artificial inflation plaguing the market.

“We cannot fold our arms and watch this situation spiral out of control. Steps must be taken to curb the excessive price hikes and provide relief to the people,” Gado declared.

His remarks have sparked hope among the public that the government will take decisive action to mitigate the artificial inflation that has caused so much hardship.

By Ismail Hashim Abubakar, PhD

I have had sleepless nights these days reflecting and worrying over the ordeal my fellow Nigerians are passing through that ranges from inflation, hunger, and fuel price hikes to insecurity, not to talk of the usual and condonable suffering of lack of social amenities as essential as electricity, water supply, education and healthcare provision, employment, roads and so on.

Poor Nigerians are now literally dying of starvation, and the government seems to be myopically unprepared to decisively fight famishment by countering the inflation of food items, much less than investigating and gathering the statistics of those who lost their lives due to lack of food. 

The hardship results from years of bad leadership and corruption that bedevil Nigeria. My worries worsen when I look at the right, left, and centre of Nigerian politics. I cannot envisage any tangible attempts to reduce or checkmate these unbearable life burdens and simplify things for my fellow compatriots.  It is so disheartening to see that matters which did not constitute part of our problems a few years ago are now huge issues that citizens have to grapple with for them to make ends meet, with millions of Nigerians now wishing to miraculously return to where they were less than two decades ago.

Nigerians are desperately looking for ways to articulate and reassert their essential human need for survival to hearing the deaf ears of their leaders, who are always mischievously claiming to be good listeners but who are viewed by their subjects as oppressors and draconian rulers. This explains why all the efforts of the government, which manifested in clerical interventions, propaganda and security threats, all to thwart the mass hunger protest organised and held by Nigerians in August, ended in fiasco, albeit, of course, it was later extinguished undemocratically with excessive use of force to disenfranchise Nigerians. 

The government would have mildly aborted the August hunger protest if it sincerely attacked hunger by arresting the increasing rise of prices of commodities and by restoring the fuel subsidy, which President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced on the day he was sworn in even before stepping into his office. Nigerians are still shocked by how the government found solace in procuring a multimillion-dollar jet and yacht for the President as his subjects still languish in economic misery.

Nigerians are puzzled by the unresponsiveness of their leaders to public concerns. Organisations like the NLC and ASUU have lost their influence, and religious scholars and public speeches no longer hold the same sway over public opinion and elections. Nowadays, prominent clerics defend politicians, posing as their spokespersons. This shift marks a radical change in the relationship between the political class and religious elites. It’s important to remember that Nigerian politicians often have a give-and-take mentality when dealing with religious leaders. Some scholars compromise their truth by accepting gifts from politicians. While some scholars have joined the government and performed well, many have completely changed after doing so.

All these have combined to intensify the pessimism of the Nigerian masses, who are tired and so desperate, looking for solutions to their country, which is on the brink of precipice. The emergence of a movement mobilised by Nigerian youth, meant for all patriotic citizens in an actual sense, is a significant sign that things have reached the peak of their flashpoints.

From the speeches of the founders of the youth movement, one can infer that it is a mass struggle born out of tiredness with the current leadership system and which aims at displacing the despotism of the ruling and political class by way of justifiably hijacking the loyalty of citizens to partisan politics and redirecting them towards supporting selfless, sincere, committed, development-oriented, transparent, accountable and law-abiding governance which the nascent movement aspires to help produce. 

The movement seeks to prosecute a mild political revolution that will end regimes of impunity, lawlessness, corruption, bribery, lack of integrity, massive looting, thievery, embezzlement, sabotage, cruelty and all forms of vices that characterise the attitudes of the minority of people who run the affairs of Nigeria. The ambitious movement hopes to halt the situation in which a few people, just by being at the helm of affairs, monopolise the country’s wealth to service their selfish ends, greedily devouring public resources, treating the national assets as their estate, too hell-bent to exploit and feast on the local treasures while simultaneously refusing to improve public infrastructure and avoiding local healthcare, leaving the education system in dilapidated conditions. They race for medical care in foreign hospitals and send their children to study abroad. 

It is alleged that Nigerian leaders have already mortgaged millions of barrels of crude oil that the country is expected to produce within the next 30 years to foreign business institutions. Even if this allegation has not yet been proven, the kind of treatment the newly established Dangote Refinery receives from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) speaks volumes to the weight of such an allegation.

The youth movement is a herculean task that some may dismiss as practically impossible and utopian. For someone familiar with Nigeria and how it operates, the tip of the iceberg of which is only known by ordinary citizens, one may not accuse pessimistic sentiments towards reform of nurturing despair in this direction. At the same time, however, for someone who hears about or reads how some countries passed through similar tribulations and after some extraordinary efforts of some patriotic men they scaled through and overcame challenges, one cannot help but accept that the salvation struggle can as well succeed. There has to be a serious, sustainable and resilient plan, genuine will and invincible determination for all those who believe in the struggle to make strong dedications and major sacrifices.

Ismail is a Research Fellow at Advancing Education and Research Center (Rabat) and is reachable via ismailiiit18@gmail.com.

By Aliyu Yakubu Yusuf

I first met Dr. Denga during my NCE level 100 at the Federal College of Education, Kano in 2002. She was assigned to teach us EDU113 officially titled Principles and Methods of Teaching but famously called “Curriculum” by all students, perhaps because that was the first item in course content. As is usually the norm in most tertiary institutions, the course was assigned two hours on the official timetable. However, Dr. Denga had had her unique timing for the course.

During our first contact, she informed us that her lectures would be held daily (Monday to Friday) from 7 am to 8 am. That was how we spent our entire first year because Dr. Denga also taught us two more courses in the second semester. She would go on to teach us two more courses in levels 200 and 300.

At first, I found it extremely uncomfortable having to wake up and leave home as early as 6:30 a.m. However, I would soon get used to the routine. I would wake up, pray my Subh, and take my bath. The famous sound of the BBC Hausa morning program (London take kira, BBC ke magana) coming from my father’s radio was my daily signal that it was time to leave for school.

Mrs. Denga had a particular principle for conducting the CA that made her students never dare to miss her classes. Out of the 40 marks allotted for CA, she would earmark 15 marks for class attendance and 25 marks for classroom tests.

She used to take three different attendances randomly, each worth 5 marks. Whenever she wanted to take attendance, she would come to the class and shut the door immediately.

She would distribute papers for students to write their names and registration numbers. She would then collect all the papers and open the door. She would then distribute separate papers for the latecomers, who were only eligible for 3 out of 5 marks. That would last until 7:30 when she would collect those papers and put another one for those who came after 7:30. Those students would only get 1/5 marks before she took away the paper at 7:45, so that anyone who came afterward would only listen to the lecture.

I will never forget a funny encounter with Dr. Denga. It had become a habit for nearly all of us to gather in the lecture theatre, chatting, until we saw her approaching car, and then we would climb the staircase into the theater. Little did we know that she did not like that.

One fateful day, Dr. Denga decided to teach us a valuable lesson. Instead of following the normal route from her apartment in the staff quarters to the theater, she changed her route and parked her car at a distance where we wouldn’t notice her. She surreptitiously began to climb the staircase from the other side of the theater while we were all busy chatting. She was halfway through when some of our classmates noticed her. Come and see people running, pushing, and shoving one another on the staircase. Dr. Denga, too, would funnily engage in the act until she entered the theater, closed the door behind her, and said, “Attendance.” That was how I got 3 instead of 5 marks that day. And guess what? I ended up with 68 in the course, which was 2 marks short of an A.

Dr. Denga taught us the value of reading and diligence in academia. Most of us considered her too autocratic back then. However, before we finished our National Certificate in Education (NCE), we came to know her better. She was a woman of principles. Once you understood what she stood for and adhered to it strictly, you would find her fun to be with. We would often go to her office and spend hours chatting and discussing life and studies.

There was a time she told us that she first came to the North from her native Edo State when she was posted to do NYSC in Sokoto. After the orientation camp, she was posted to Kwatarkwashi, where she taught at a secondary school. What she found remarkable about the average northerner was that they may appear uneducated in terms of schooling and certification, but they are far more enlightened about world politics and international news than most so-called educated southerners. The average northerner is always glued to their radio, listening to local and international news.

Dr. Denga left FCE Kano merely a year after our graduation. That was the last I heard of her. In case you wonder, those were years when only a few students, mostly ladies, had phones. In the class of about 150 students, there were not up to 10 who had cellphones. Whether dead or alive, I wish Dr. Denga eternal peace and happiness.

Aliyu Yakubu Yusuf teaches English at the Department of English and Literary Studies at Bayero University, Kano. He can be reached at aliyuyy@gmail.com.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has praised teachers in Gombe State and across Nigeria for their dedication, resilience, and hard work, acknowledging their efforts in molding the next generation.

In his goodwill message to mark the World Teachers’ Day, today, Governor Inuwa Yahaya noted that teachers are not just educators, but key stakeholders in the development of society.

This year’s theme, “Valuing Teacher Voices: Towards a New Social Contract for Education,” underscores the vital role teachers play in shaping the future of education and the necessity of incorporating their voices into policy decisions.

“In a world that is constantly evolving, the input of teachers in shaping educational policies is important. The theme of this year’s celebration is a call for all of us to recognize the importance of teachers and to ensure that their voices are heard in decision-making processes,” he said.

Reflecting on the efforts of his administration to improve the welfare of teachers, Governor Inuwa Yahaya highlighted several initiatives that have been implemented under his leadership.

These include the recruitment of new teachers to address manpower shortages, regular payment of salaries and entitlements, teacher training and capacity-building programmes, as well as improvements in school infrastructure to create better working conditions for educators.

“Our administration is committed to ensuring that teachers in Gombe State are well-supported and motivated. We understand that quality education cannot be achieved without investing in the well-being and professional development of our teachers. This is why we have consistently prioritized their welfare, from timely salary payments to providing opportunities for training and career advancement,” the Governor stated.

By Uzair Adam

The workers of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) have announced plans to initiate an indefinite nationwide strike starting at midnight on October 7, 2024.

This decision follows the expiration of a 14-day ultimatum issued to NAFDAC’s management after it failed to address concerns raised by the Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria (MHWUN) branch within the agency.

According to a statement signed by Comrade Salih Ahmed Aledeh, Secretary of MHWUN, the strike directive was given by the union’s Federal Area Council leadership.

The workers are protesting NAFDAC management’s lack of response to issues raised during a congress meeting held on September 20, 2024.

The union has instructed all Zonal Coordinators and State Representatives to ensure full compliance with the strike order and to keep providing updates on their efforts.

The industrial action is expected to disrupt NAFDAC’s operations, which could have significant implications for the regulation of food and drugs across the country.

The strike’s duration remains uncertain, depending on how quickly the management addresses the union’s demands.

Tensions between the union and NAFDAC management had been building, especially after two workers’ unions—the Senior Staff Association of Statutory Corporation and Government Owned Companies (SSASCGOC) and MHWUN—rejected the 2024 promotional examination results, citing a mass failure.

They raised concerns about the transparency and integrity of the process, where 65% of staff failed the examination.

This rejection followed earlier discontent over the management’s handling of staff promotions and job vacancies.

The unions issued a seven-day ultimatum demanding a review of the 2024 Promotion Examination Results, the appointment of directors to key vacant positions, and reforms to the promotion process, among other demands.

Failure to meet these conditions, they warned, could lead to further unrest.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The ongoing local government elections in Rivers State have descended into chaos, with heavy gunfire erupting in the Rumuepirikom community, hometown of Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike.

It should be noted that Wike, a former governor of the state, is at odds with the present governor, Siminalayi Fubara, who, against the odds, has gone ahead with conducting the grassroots elections.

Eyewitnesses report that unidentified individuals stormed the area, warning residents to stay indoors.

As electoral officers arrived at the ward in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, armed men, suspected to be political thugs, launched a violent attack.

At least one person has been rushed to a hospital after sustaining a bullet injury

By Usman Abdullahi Koli, ANIPR 

In a dramatic move, Bello Turji, the notorious kidnapper and the most wanted bandit who has claimed responsibility for most prominent terrorist attacks in Northwest Nigeria, released a video clip where his deadly gang surrounded him and passed a vote of confidence in the Chief of Defense Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa.

The terrorists described General Musa as their ‘leader’ “Shugaban mu mai albarka”, and suggested that he should grant Musa Asada (an Islamic scholar) a military or paramilitary appointment. Turji’s expression of loyalty to the military boss suggested an unofficial relationship between him and military insiders.

That aside, for now, Turji’s trending video clip is evidence of system failure, intelligence weakness, and political will to nail the enemies of the state. The military might be challenged, and a terrorist rubbished the ‘technological know-how’ of the giant.

His outlandish accusations sparked widespread debate and concern, with some on social media misinterpreting Turji’s words and using them to question the integrity of the Nigerian military, especially General Christopher Musa’s role in combating insecurity.

As a staunch advocate of good governance, I have long been calling on the government to take more decisive action against banditry, terrorism, and kidnapping. For the past five to six years, I have consistently raised awareness about the threats posed by these criminal elements to the safety and prosperity of Nigeria, particularly in the North. Unfortunately, much of this advocacy seems to have fallen on deaf ears as banditry continues to ravage communities. Nonetheless, I feel compelled to discuss the issue, especially to analyse the confusion and misinformation that Turji’s statements have caused.

Let it be clear that Turji’s claims are false, and the military has the responsibility of taming him. No evidence supportsthe insinuation that General Christopher Musa is associated with Turji or any criminal network. General Musa has been instrumental in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to combat insecurity, including taking decisive action against high-profile criminals like Turji.

Since being appointed CDS, General Christopher Musa has demonstrated endless commitment to restoring peace and order in Nigeria. He has led several strategic military operations aimed at dismantling the networks of bandits, terrorists, and kidnappers that have terrorised communities across the country, especially in the Northwest. One of the most significant achievements under his leadership was the recent elimination of Halilu Sububu, a key figure in the banditry networks terrorising Zamfara and surrounding areas. Sububu’s death dealt a major blow to these criminal gangs, sending shockwaves through their ranks.

It is no coincidence that Turji, now cornered by relentless military pressure, has resorted to making baseless accusations against the institution that has been dismantling his operations. His statement is nothing more than a desperate attempt to divert attention from the military’s successes in combating his criminal activities. Turji, like other criminals of his kind, understands the power of propaganda and is trying to manipulate public perception by targeting prominent figures like General Musa.

Furthermore, Turji’s threats against notable voices such as Bulama Bukarti, Musa Asada, and Bello Yabo, three fearless advocates who have stood against his reign of terror, reflect his growing desperation. These individuals, alongside many others, have been instrumental in raising awareness about the accurate scale of banditry and advocating for more decisive government action to protect communities. Turji’s frustrations with these figures only further reveal the pressure he is under from public opinion and military action.

Despite these military gains, it is essential to recognise that Nigeria’s security challenges, particularly in the North, require more than just military action. The complexity of the insecurity crisis demands a comprehensive approach that includes social, economic, and political dimensions. The government must continue to invest in addressing the root causes of banditry, which include poverty, lack of education, and underdevelopment in many rural areas.

For the people of the Northwest, the situation has become unbearable. Many can no longer farm their lands, as bandits have taken control of vast territories, instilling fear in local communities. Despite having fertile land, farmers cannot plant crops because of the constant threat of violence. The government must prioritise providing immediate relief to these communities, ensuring they are protected and given the necessary resources to rebuild their lives.

In addition, efforts must be made to strengthen local intelligence networks, improve border security, and ensure that arms do not flow freely into the hands of bandits. Collaboration with neighbouring countries, particularly Niger and Chad, is crucial to stop the transnational flow of weapons and fighters. The government should also foster stronger partnerships with local vigilante groups, civil society organisations, and community leaders who have an intimate understanding of the terrain and the dynamics of banditry.

Nigerians must approach security issues with a balanced and informed perspective. We must avoid being swayed by the propaganda of criminals like Bello Turji, whose only objective is to sow discord and confusion. Rather than focusing on baseless accusations, we should channel our energy into supporting efforts to restore peace and security in affected regions.

General Christopher Musa and the entire military deserve our support as they continue to risk their lives to protect our nation. Their task is enormous, and while there may be challenges along the way, there is no doubt that significant progress is being made. The military’s recent successes, such as the killing of Halilu Sububu, prove that with the right strategy, it is possible to turn the tide against insecurity.

Bello Turji’s recent comments are nothing more than the desperate outbursts of a criminal whose days are numbered. His attempts to drag General Christopher Musa and other figures into his web of lies should be seen as a distraction. Under General Musa’s leadership, the Nigerian military has made notable strides in combating banditry and terrorism, and we must continue to support their efforts.

At the same time, we must recognise the urgency of the situation in the Northwest and other affected regions. A holistic approach that addresses both the security and developmental needs of these communities is essential for lasting peace. Only through a combination of military action, community engagement, and sustained government investment can we finally put an end to the scourge of banditry, terrorism, and kidnapping in Nigeria.

Usman Abdullahi Koli wrote via mernoukoli@gmail.com.

By Salisu Uba, PhD, FCIPS

Nigeria has embarked on a significant fiscal reform with the introduction of the Deduction of Tax at Source (Withholding) Regulations 2024, effective from 1 July 2024. Signed into law by the Minister of Finance, these regulations dismantle a nearly five-decade-old withholding tax (WHT) regime, signalling a pivotal shift in the nation’s economic structure. For supply chain and business stakeholders, understanding and capitalising on these changes is crucial for fostering sustainable, value-added growth in an evolving market.

Streamlining Taxation to Boost Supply Chain Efficiency

The new WHT regulations offer significant rate reductions that directly benefit the supply chain ecosystem. Notably, the WHT rate for payments to Nigerian companies for professional, management, technical, and consultancy services has been halved from 10% to 5%. This reduction eases financial pressures and improves liquidity, enabling businesses to reinvest savings into key areas such as logistics, technology, and workforce development. With enhanced cash flow, supply chains become more agile, swiftly responding to market demands while reducing operational bottlenecks.

Additionally, the WHT rate for payments related to other services and the supply of goods or materials to Nigerian residents has decreased from 5% to 2%. In the supply chain sector, where margins are often tight, this reduction helps lower overheads. It allows companies to reallocate resources to optimise inventory management, strengthen supplier relationships, and invest in advanced supply chain capabilities. These savings can translate into more competitive consumer pricing, strengthening market positioning and driving business growth.

Fostering Sustainable Infrastructure Development

Infrastructure is vital to the smooth functioning of supply chains, and the new regulations demonstrate the government’s commitment to supporting this critical area. The WHT rate on payments to Nigerian residents for constructing roads, bridges, buildings, and power plants has been slightly reduced from 2.5% to 2%. While modest, this adjustment reflects a broader strategy to enhance Nigeria’s infrastructure. Improved infrastructure facilitates more reliable and efficient logistics, reducing transit times and minimising disruptions, which bolsters supply chains’ overall resilience.

Empowering Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of Nigeria’s supply chain, serving as key suppliers and service providers. The new regulations offer exemptions for companies and unincorporated bodies with a turnover of 25 million Naira or less on transactions up to 2 million Naira, provided the supplier has a Tax Identification Number (TIN). This exemption reduces the administrative burden on SMEs, encouraging formalisation and integration into the broader supply chain framework and tax system. These reforms promote diversity and resilience by supporting SMEs, ensuring smaller players thrive alongside more giant corporations and contributing to a more robust, dynamic supply chain ecosystem.

Enhancing Compliance and Transparency

The extension of WHT liability to payment agents and the requirement to issue receipts for withholding tax deductions are vital steps towards greater transparency and accountability within the supply chain. These measures ensure tax obligations are met promptly and accurately, reducing the risk of disputes and fostering trust among business partners. For procurement professionals, enhanced compliance simplifies auditing and mitigates the risk of financial discrepancies, enabling more efficient and reliable supply chain management. Transparent tax practices also enhance Nigeria’s business ethics and foreign investment.

Strategic Adaptation: Navigating the Transition

Adapting to the new WHT regime requires careful planning and proactive engagement. Supply chain experts should thoroughly reassess existing contracts to ensure they align with the revised tax obligations. This may involve renegotiating terms with suppliers and partners to accommodate the new WHT rates and compliance requirements. Working closely with tax advisors and leveraging expert guidance can help businesses navigate the reforms’ legal, tax, and financial implications, minimising disruptions and capitalising on the benefits of the new regulations. Proactive adaptation will turn potential challenges into greater efficiency and competitive advantage opportunities.

Sustainable Value Creation in the Supply Chain

The overarching objective of Nigeria’s WHT reforms is to create a fairer and more efficient tax environment that supports sustainable business growth. For the supply chain sector, reduced tax burdens enhance operational efficiency, while support for SMEs and infrastructure development lays the foundation for long-term resilience and innovation. Businesses can invest in sustainable practices such as green logistics solutions and supply chain transparency initiatives by lowering costs and improving cash flow. These investments contribute to environmental sustainability, build competitive advantage, and create added value for stakeholders. I also encourage the government to look into its supply chain to increase transparency, promote equal opportunities, prioritise local procurement of all goods and services, and digitally transform the function across MDAs.

Conclusion

Nigeria’s Deduction of Tax at Source (Withholding) Regulations 2024 represents a transformative step in modernising the country’s tax framework. The implications for supply chains are profound, offering opportunities to enhance efficiency, support small businesses, and invest in sustainable growth. By strategically adapting to these changes, companies can transition smoothly, leveraging the new tax environment to build more resilient, value-driven supply chains. 

As Nigeria continues to refine its economic policies, the supply chain sector stands to benefit from a more equitable and supportive fiscal landscape, driving sustainable growth and long-term prosperity. The Federal Government and the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, led by Taiwo Oyedele, deserve commendation for their forward-thinking approach. These reforms alleviate immediate financial pressures on businesses and pave the way for a more dynamic, resilient, and value-added supply chain ecosystem in Nigeria.

Salisu Uba, PhD, FCIPS, is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply Chain UK and Founder of NatQuest – a supply chain technology company based in the UK.