Nigeria

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini 

President Bola Tinubu said on Friday in Abuja that the federal government would ensure that investments in key sectors of the economy follow clear timelines and are impactful on the lives of citizens.  

President Tinubu, who received the management of the Aluminium Smelter Company of Nigeria (ALSCON) led by the Chairman, Alexey Arnautov, at the State House, said the government was keen on reviving the smelter company in Ikot Abasi, Akwa Ibom State.  

“It is good to have you at this meeting. Smelter is necessary for the development of the country,’’ the President stated.  

President Tinubu reiterated the need for clear vision and detailed plans in the steel and energy sector, adding that “there must be timelines’’. 

In his remarks, the Chairman of ALSCON assured the President of the preparedness of the management to turn around the fortunes of the company within a given period by injecting $500 million.  

Arnautov said the management was aware of the centrality of aluminium in modern development, particularly for Nigeria, and would continue to support the growth of the country.  

President Tinubu directed the Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Audu, and the Special Adviser to the President on Energy, Ms. Olu Verheijen, to review and provide an update on the status of ALSCON.

By Lawan Bukar Maigana 

According to a report by the World Health Organization, Nigeria, after India, has the highest number of maternal mortality in the world. The report shows 788 women and children deaths per hundred thousand’ in India, and 540 women and children ‘per thousand’ died in Nigeria.

Other countries with high maternal, neonatal, and stillbirth rates are Pakistan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Bangladesh, China, Indonesia, Afghanistan, and the United Republic of Tanzania.

‘About 57,000 mothers died from pregnancy and complications during childbirth in 2023 alone,’ said Nigeria’s Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate, at a public health function.

Unfortunately, the frequent loss of lives among pregnant women in Nigeria, particularly Northern Nigeria, remains an issue of concern. This gives Nigeria a poor global ranking.

Pate explained that the Federal Government was committed to drastically reducing maternal mortality through the new Safe Motherhood Strategy. He noted that the central government will take actionable steps and cascade the strategies to state and local governments, targeting at least seven million pregnant women.

“The aim is to ease six million new births by activating the Decentralised Facility Financing package, establishing robust collaboration with health NGOs, community leaders, and media to boost awareness campaigns.” 

Sequel to the Health Minister’s lamentation, the Girl Child Concerns (GCC), in collaboration with the Borno State Government through the Multi-Sectoral Crisis Recovery Project (MCRP), has trained 300 Community Health Extension Workers (CHEWs) on Basic Emergency Obstetric Care and Early Neonatal Care in Borno State.

The Chief Adviser and Coordinator for Sustainable Development, Partnerships, and Humanitarian Support to the Governor of Borno State, Dr. Mairo Mandara, stated that the training aimed to improve maternal and child health services across the state. The training was conducted in three zones of the state. Each zone underwent one week of theoretical training followed by one week of clinical training. 

The training for Borno Central was held on May 27, 2024, for Borno North on June 3rd, and for Borno South on July 1st, with each zone being exposed to theoretical and clinical aspects of the training.

Dr. Mandara emphasized the governor’s commitment to ensuring quality health services for the resilient people of Borno State, especially the locals, given the magnitude of the challenges they face due to the terrorist activities of Boko Haram insurgents in their communities.

Dr. Mina Endeley from the Namu Project in the UK and Oluwaseyi Akinlaja from Princes Alexandra Hospital Trust in the UK have also joined the training, leading a practical session on successful delivery and universal approaches to handling emergency cases.

Endeley at MCH Biu Local Government Area practically taught non-medical attendants the concepts of basic life support, including managing catastrophic bleeding in the community.

The participants practised approaching the scene safely, calling for help, managing catastrophic bleeding, and reviewing the patient’s airway, breathing, and circulation using a mnemonic we created.

Oluwaseyi Akinlaja from Princess Alexandra Hospital Trust, UK, explained the labour mechanism: how a baby is delivered as it passes through the pelvis into the birth canal and is born by expulsion. This was done to enable CHEWs to visualize the birth process so that they could make early referrals when necessary.

She exposed the participants to the seven steps/processes that a baby passes through before delivery, namely engagement, descent, flexion, internal rotation, extension, external rotation, and extension.

On his part, the Emir of Biu, Maidala Mustapha Umar Aliyu II, described the combined efforts of the organization—GCC—and Borno State Government as a “timely homily” and expressed readiness to support the effort in every way possible.

The lead facilitator of the training, Hadiza Yahaya, has expressed satisfaction with the performance of the participants during the training and expressed hope that the CHEWs will help greatly in the fight against maternal mortality. 

The training offered to Community Health Extension Workers (CHEWs) in Borno State is expected to result in each participant putting the knowledge into practice and witnessing a drastic reduction in maternal mortality in the state.

Lawan Bukar Maigana is the Communication Officer for Girl Child Concerns, GCC, and can be reached via email at lawanbukarmaigana@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam Imam

The House of Representatives has resolved to support the Federal Government by cutting down its salaries by 50% for six months to address the high cost of food and support food sufficiency across the country.

This decision was made on Thursday during the plenary session in Abuja, and the lawmakers also appealed to Nigerians to exercise patience with President Ahmed Tinubu’s administration as it addresses the challenges and hardships faced by citizens.

The House mandated its Committee on Appropriation, Humanitarian Affairs, Finance, and Budget to ensure compliance with the resolution. The motion was moved by Hon. Ibrahim Isiaka (APC-Ogun State) and adopted by the House.

Additionally, the House of Representatives has pledged to support the Federal Government with ₦648 million for six months to address food sufficiency and the high cost of food.

Details later….

By Uzair Adam Imam

The Federal Government has reversed its earlier decision, announcing that 16-year-olds can now be admitted into tertiary institutions.

Education Minister Prof. Tahir Mamman had initially directed the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to only admit candidates who are 18 years or older.

However, stakeholders at a policy meeting organized by JAMB in Abuja objected to this decision, arguing that it is illogical to deny admission to 16-year-old students who have passed the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and JAMB exams.

Following this feedback, the minister accepted the stakeholders’ suggestions and announced that candidates aged 16 and above would be eligible for admission this year, while the new policy would take effect from next year.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A recent report by Statisense, a data collection organisation, reveals that a staggering 664,384 Nigerians sought asylum in other countries between 2016 and 2023.

This significant increase occurred during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari. 

The report, which cites the United Nations Refugee Agency, shows a steady rise in asylum seekers.

In 2016, 66,862 Nigerians sought asylum, increasing to 91,924 in 2017, 84,624 in 2018, 112,382 in 2019, 73,233 in 2020, 83,105 in 2021, 83,402 in 2022, and 68,852 in 2023. 

The Republic of Niger hosted the largest number of Nigerian refugees in 2023, with 200,497 individuals.

This brings the total number of Nigerian refugees in Niger between 2015 and 2023 to 1,268,464. 

Nigeria also topped the list of African countries whose citizens sought asylum in Canada in 2023, with 10,111 individuals.

Additionally, 1,345 Nigerians sought asylum in the United Kingdom, and 5,136 in the United States. 

This trend highlights the need for policymakers to address the underlying factors driving Nigerian citizens to seek asylum abroad.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A proposed constitutional amendment aimed at introducing a single six-year term for the President, state governors, and Local Government Area chairmen has passed its first reading in the House of Representatives.

The bill, sponsored by Representative Ikenga Ugochinyere and 50 other lawmakers, seeks to reduce election costs and promote stability in government. 

If enacted, the amendment would extend the tenure of these offices from four to six years, commencing from the date of their election.

The bill also provides for the extension of the term in cases of war or election annulments. 

The proposed amendment has sparked debate among political analysts, with some arguing that it could lead to a concentration of power and undermine democratic principles.

However, proponents of the bill argue that it would reduce the financial burden of frequent elections and promote continuity in governance. 

The bill will undergo further debate and scrutiny before a final vote.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Senator Sunday Karimi, Chairman of the Senate Services Committee, has announced that the National Assembly plans to pass legislation transferring the responsibility of conducting local government elections from state electoral bodies to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). 

Senator Karimi commended President Tinubu for his courage in returning power to the people, stating, “Since 1999, the third tier of government has been nonexistent. State governments treated them as appendages. No president has been able to change that, but President Tinubu has returned the local government to the owners – the masses.” 

He lamented potential resistance from state governors but expressed confidence in the President’s commitment to ensuring the judiciary’s independence.

Senator Karimi aligned himself with the President’s stance, praising his courage and understanding of the people’s needs. 

The Senator said it good if capable individuals manage local government funds effectively and prioritise grassroots development. He also highlighted the need for proper allocation of funds, citing past instances of mismanagement or embezzlement. Senator Karimi concluded by assuring that the National Assembly will ensure the legislation is passed and that President Tinubu’s achievement will be remembered, securing his second term.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has lifted its visa restrictions on Nigerian citizens, effective immediately.

This move marks a significant improvement in diplomatic relations between the two countries. 

According to Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the Federal Government and UAE authorities have reached an agreement to vacate travel restrictions imposed on Nigerians.

Nigerian passport holders can now travel to the UAE without any hindrance. 

The lifting of the visa ban comes after several diplomatic disputes, including a dispute over $850 million in revenue owed to the UAE.

However, with 98 percent of the debt now paid, the UAE has agreed to lift the ban. 

This development is a significant win for Nigeria, and it is expected to improve trade and tourism ties between the two countries.

Nigerians seeking information on the updated UAE visa conditions can visit the official government website for further details.

 By Umar Umar Namadi

Africa faces significant challenges from declining global aid and economic transitions, as highlighted in the Africa Policy Research Institute (APRI) publication, “The African Union vs ‘the End of Development.'” The report stresses the urgency for Africa to achieve self-reliance, innovate financially, and ensure the success of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to achieve Agenda 2063. 

Navigating Reduced Global Aid:

Africa’s longstanding reliance on external aid for development is increasingly unsustainable. Recent trends show a significant reduction in aid from traditional donors. For example, UK development aid to developing nations has dropped sharply since 2019, with cuts of 55%, 49%, and 49% for Least Developed Countries, Lower Middle-Income Countries, and Upper Middle-Income Countries, respectively. This decline necessitates a strategic pivot towards self-sustaining financial strategies.

Enhancing Economic Freedom:

One effective way to mitigate the impact of reduced aid is to enhance economic freedom within African nations. Research consistently shows that countries with higher economic freedom experience more robust economic growth. Botswana is a prime example, where market-friendly policies have led to significant economic advancements. By improving economic freedom across the continent, Africa could attract essential foreign direct investment (FDI), which brings in capital, technology, and expertise critical for development.

Focusing on Education and Human Capital:

Investing in education is another crucial strategy for fostering self-reliance. The APRI report highlights the strong correlation between higher educational attainment and economic freedom. By enhancing their education systems, African nations can equip their populations with the necessary skills to drive economic growth and innovation, thereby addressing the continent’s long-term job creation needs. A well-educated workforce is pivotal for adapting to and harnessing new technologies and sustaining economic progress.

 Prioritising Strategic Autonomy and Intra-African Trade:

The successful implementation of the AfCFTA is fundamental to Africa’s economic integration and growth. This trade agreement could reduce dependence on external markets and bolster intra-African trade, leveraging the continent’s collective strengths. The African Union (AU) must prioritise AfCFTA’s implementation, ensuring it is shielded from geopolitical and economic uncertainties. By fostering intra-African trade, the continent can create a more resilient and self-sufficient economic bloc.

 Tapping into Intra-African Strengths:

Beyond the AfCFTA, Africa must look within to tap into its collective strengths. The AU should promote policies encouraging collaboration between African nations, focusing on sectors where the continent has a comparative advantage. This could include sectors like agriculture, mining, and technology. By building robust supply chains within the continent, African nations can reduce their dependence on external markets and create more resilient economies.

Innovating Financial Strategies

In the face of declining global aid, African nations must innovate their financial strategies. This could involve tapping into alternative funding sources, such as diaspora bonds, sovereign wealth funds, and public-private partnerships. Additionally, enhancing domestic revenue mobilisation through tax reforms and improved financial management can provide the necessary funds for development projects.

The Role of the African Diaspora

The African diaspora represents a significant potential source of investment and knowledge transfer. By engaging the diaspora community through targeted policies and initiatives, African nations can attract investments and leverage the expertise of Africans abroad to drive development. This includes creating favourable investment climates and incentivising diaspora engagement in local economies.

Conclusion

The future of Africa hinges on its ability to adapt and innovate in response to global challenges. African nations can chart a path toward sustainable development by promoting economic freedom, investing in education, and focusing on strategic autonomy. The AU must spearhead this initiative, proving that Africa can drive its growth despite the global narrative around “the end of development.” The continent’s progress depends on pragmatic strategies emphasising self-reliance and intra-African collaboration.

Umar Namadi wrote via namadijunior@gmail.com.

 By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has received a commendation from the World Customs Organisation (WCO) for its exceptional performance under the leadership of Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi. 

This is contained in a statement signed by Abdullahi Maiwada, Chief Superintendent of Customs, National Public Relations Officer, for Comptroller General of Customs, on July 12, 2024. 

In a letter of commendation, WCO Director Larry Liza hailed the NCS’s remarkable 74% growth in revenue over the past year, marking a significant milestone in customs administration. 

“We extend our warmest congratulations to Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi and the Nigeria Customs Service for achieving a 74% growth in revenue in the last year. This outstanding feat has not gone unnoticed and stands as a testament to your dedication and effective leadership,” stated Larry Liza. 

The WCO highlighted the NCS’s exemplary achievements across various fronts, including revenue collection, trade facilitation, societal protection, and stakeholder collaboration, despite challenging security conditions. 

Under Comptroller-General Adeniyi’s guidance, the Nigeria Customs Service has demonstrated commendable resilience and innovation, particularly in streamlining operations and enforcing critical directives for the benefit of the nation. 

The WCO applauded the NCS’s proactive measures against smuggling and other illicit activities, which have reinforced border security and contributed to Nigeria’s economic stability. 

The recognition underscores the global impact of Nigeria’s Customs reforms and reinforces its commitment to learning from and supporting successful strategies in customs administration under CG Adewale Adeniyi’s leadership.