Nigeria

By Ishaka Mohammed

Apart from a business trip to Enugu within 24 hours, I’ve spent all my life in northern Nigeria, but it was in 2014 that I learnt that “Arewa” means “North”. In fact, I had once referred to the word as the name of a bloodsucking occult society, thanks to rumour-mongers.

As children, my peers and I heard about “Ogbenu” (occultists who sucked children’s blood). Although the “bloodsuckers” were believed to be far away from our land, we were constantly warned to avoid them.

We received one of such warnings around 2003 or 2004, when a new brand of notebook was generating massive sales in our village.

The cover of the book had an inscription, “The great people of the great land…the people of Arewa land,” and featured pictures of some men wearing Hausa traditional attire on horses. It was rumoured that the men were Ogbenu, so writing in the book would drain one’s blood, while exhausting all pages would cause death.

Consequently, as some children and I avoided the book, various others destroyed the copies they already had. The brand disappeared from our community.

For the sake of context, I’m from Inye, a village in Ankpa Local Government Area of Kogi State, and I was a pupil at Engineer Bob Alfa Primary School (EBAPS), Ojuwo-Inye, at the time of the incident.

If a single rumour could be that effective by mere word of mouth, imagine how damaging it could be in this age of digital revolution. 

You have the right to review products or services but be fair to brands and companies. Business owners struggle for the survival of their establishments, so it’s wicked to ruin their efforts. A single sentence could make or break an establishment. Business owners are also human beings, so they deserve fairness. 

Nonetheless, whoever wants to be obstinate should either be ready to provide sufficient evidence or ask one Chioma Egodi Jnr. A single Facebook post and some comments about Nagiko Tomato Mix forced Erisco Foods Limited to deal with her. Deleting the post didn’t help matters, as the company involved the law and insisted that she prove her claims about the product.

Some people have argued that the company overreacted, but I think otherwise: she deserved what she got.

Ishaka Mohammed can be reached via ishakamohammed39@gmail.com.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has affirmed its commitment to collaborate closely with the Nigeria Export Promotion Commission (NEPC).

The announcement came during a significant meeting held on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, as the management team of NEPC paid a courtesy visit to the Customs Corporate Headquarters in Abuja. 

Comptroller-General of Customs, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, expressed the NCS’s eagerness to join forces with NEPC to streamline export processes, alleviate bottlenecks, and foster a conducive environment for exporters.

He stressed the pivotal role of this collaboration in redefining exports to enhance outbound trade volumes. 

During a joint session at the Customs Corporate Headquarters, CGC Adeniyi underscored the imperative of supporting exports, particularly in addressing logistical challenges.

His words were echoed by Nonye Ayeni, Executive Director and CEO of NEPC, who commended CGC Adeniyi’s notable achievements since assuming office.

Ayeni stated Nigeria’s wealth of resources, especially in agriculture and solid minerals, highlighting the pivotal role of advocacy in addressing exporters’ challenges. 

Se further reiterated the importance of non-oil exports for economic growth and called for concerted efforts to actualize the “Export 35 redefined” initiative.

She also urged sister agencies to actively contribute to mitigating logistical hurdles and proposed the establishment of aggregation centers to facilitate smoother export processes. 

In response to the discussions, Comptroller Ajibola Odusanya, Customs Area Controller Lilypond Export Command Lagos, amplified the necessity of the Nigeria Export Proceeds (NXP) to repatriate export proceeds.

By Tajuddeen Ahmad Tijjani

The country has sadly, in recent times, witnessed pockets of protests and widespread agitation over the rising cost of living and skyrocketing prices of foodstuffs.

“In the past few weeks, residents of Kano, Ogun, Niger, and Oyo States have taken to the streets to protest the high cost of living caused by spiralling inflation in the country.”

In times of desperation, especially when our leaders are too much for themselves and care less for those they govern, calling for them to sacrifice while at the same time living flamboyantly at the expense of society, however, when basic needs like food and shelter too often become scarce, individuals may resort to extreme measures to survive. Looting, particularly of public goods or food supplies, usually occurs under the guise of hunger, with perpetrators justifying their actions as necessary for survival. 

While the act may stem from a genuine need, its consequences extend far beyond the immediate acquisition of goods. No one can deny the fact that we’re having a trying time as a country. However, this should not justify the unfortunate events happening in the country. It’s a crying shame people are taking laws into their own hands at a time when we need all hands on deck to surmount the pervasive insecurity in the land. 

Firstly, we should remember that looting undermines social order and exacerbates existing societal inequalities. When individuals or groups resort to looting goods belonging to marketers or producers, they bypass established systems of fairness, creating unnecessary chaos and insecurity in society. This erodes trust in institutions and undermines the rule of law, leading to further social unrest and instability. No one can tell where we are headed as a country of diversity. Moreover, looting disproportionately affects the sense of reason, exacerbating social disorder and perpetuating cycles of poverty.

However, we all lamented the current economic hardship facing the country resulting from inflation caused by the federal government’s policies. However, the consensus among the average Nigerian is that the current administration deliberately inflicts misery and poverty on the citizens, though they keep telling us that tough decisions are necessary, which usually bring about good things in the future. But not in the case of Nigeria. Where reversed is the case in some instances.

Moreover, the psychological impact of looting cannot be overstated. Communities already reeling from the effects of poverty, conflict, or natural disasters are further traumatised by the breakdown of social order and the loss of trust in their fellow citizens. As a matter of urgency and necessity, the government, traditional rulers, and community leaders shouldcome out boldly condemning and discouraging the recent looting of people’s goods. Silence can lead to hopelessness and despair, exacerbating social tensions and hindering progress. We can’t continue this way as a civilised society that is expected to move forward in the community of the nation. 

Furthermore, looting undermines efforts to build a resilient and sustainable nation by depleting public trust and damaging societal value. 

While looting public goods under the guise of hunger may seem like a desperate act of survival, its consequences are far-reaching and detrimental to society. From undermining social order and exacerbating inequalities to hampering economic growth, however, I appeal to the government to stand by its responsibility in Addressing the root causes of poverty and inequality, strengthening social safety nets, and promoting sustainable development are essential steps in mitigating the desperation that drives individuals to resort to looting in times of crisis.

The widening gap between average Nigerians and those in government is too broad; policies that would make all Nigerians feel the impact of leadership should be implemented.

Therefore, I appeal to all those in authority and philosophies to educate society and allow them to understand their boundaries. The government should create an environment that offers the larger population a sense of belonging and shun all violent acts undermining constituted authority. After all, if Nigerians strive in various endeavours, the government will have a smooth way of implementing its policies to benefit all.

Tajuddeen Ahmad Tijjani Writes from Galadima Mahmoud Street, Kasuwar Kaji Azare, Bauchi State.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Kebbi Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has taken a significant step towards fostering international trade by reopening the Kamba Border, following directives from the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi (MFR).

The newly appointed Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Iheanacho Ojike, officially announced the reopening on Friday, March 15, 2024, marking a pivotal moment for cross-border commerce. 

In a press release issued by Mohammed Salisu, the Superintendent of Customs and Public Relations Officer for the Kebbi Area Command, Comptroller Ojike, reiterated the strategic importance of the Kamba Border, emphasising its role in revenue generation for Kebbi State.

Speaking at the border’s reopening ceremony, which was attended by stakeholders, the district head of Kamba, Mamuda Fana, and representatives from sister agencies, CAC Ojike emphasized the commitment to facilitating legitimate trade while upholding national security interests. 

The reopening of the Kamba Border signals a renewed focus on promoting lawful commerce that contributes positively to the nation’s development agenda.

Comptroller Ojike stated the readiness of Customs officers to ensure fair and transparent trade practices, provided that stakeholders comply with existing customs laws, declare their goods accurately, and fulfil their financial obligations to the Federal Government. 

However, CAC Ojike issued a stern reminder that certain commodities, particularly grains, remain prohibited for exportation due to concerns about food scarcity within the country.

This measure reflects the government’s ongoing efforts to safeguard national food security interests. 

In response to the reopening, Mamuda Fana expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for ushering in a new era of economic opportunity for the people of Kebbi State, particularly those engaged in cross-border and small-scale businesses in Kamba town.

He pledged to work closely with customs authorities to discourage illicit trade activities and promote lawful commerce. 

As part of efforts to strengthen collaboration and enhance border security, Comptroller Ojike paid courtesy visits to key stakeholders, including the Emir of Gwandu, Major General Muhammed Iliyasu (Rtd), and other sister agencies.

These engagements underscore the importance of multi-agency cooperation in curbing smuggling activities, ensuring community safety, and facilitating smooth trade operations across borders.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Africa’s wealthiest individual, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, has launched an initiative to feed 10,000 fasting Muslims daily in Kano State, along with distributing one million bags of rice nationwide through the Aliko Dangote Foundation. 

According to a statement by Samira Sanusi, an official of the foundation in Kano, the aim is to alleviate hunger amidst economic challenges across Nigeria.

The gesture, valued at over N13 billion, seeks to provide essential sustenance during the holy month of Ramadan. 

The distributed meals, which include jollof rice, white rice and stew, jollof spaghetti, yam, beans with chicken, and beef, are complemented with a bottle of water and a drink for each recipient.

These provisions are dispersed at Juma’at mosques, streets, prisons, orphanages, remand homes, and other locations in Kano city and its environs. 

Musas Maikatako, a beneficiary of the meal, expressed profound gratitude for the assistance, highlighting its significance in easing the hardship faced by many during Ramadan.

He stressed that the provision of solid food for breaking the fast is a significant relief, particularly for those who would otherwise have only water. 

Similarly, Hajiya Inna Tukur shared her joy at receiving such nourishing food during challenging times, expressing heartfelt thanks to Aliko Dangote and his foundation for their benevolence. 

This initiative builds upon Dangote’s longstanding commitment to philanthropy, with Mrs. Sanusi revealing that for over 30 years, the Dangote Foundation has quietly fed 10,000 residents of Kano daily with breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

This sustained effort, originating from Dangote’s mother’s residence in Koki and various cooking locations, shows a profound dedication to uplifting communities and combating hunger. 

Through such impactful initiatives, Aliko Dangote continues to demonstrate his commitment to social responsibility.

By Abbas Datti

The state minister of education, Yusuf Tanko Sununu, has been making giant strides in improving the nation’s education sector and ensuring that all children have access to quality education. His dedication and hard work shouldn’t go unnoticed, and he deserves to be commended for his efforts.

One of the key initiatives implemented in his intertwined collaboration with the minister of education, Tahir Mamman, is expanding access to educational programmes in underserved communities. By building new schools and upgrading existing ones, the minister has ensured that more children have the opportunity to receive a quality education. This has helped to bridge the gap between urban and rural education and ensure that all children have equal access to educational opportunities.

Furthermore, the state minister has been actively working to improve the quality of education in schools. He has introduced new teacher development programmes, like the Teacher Internship Scheme (TIS), provided support for teachers, and introduced innovative programs for teachers to adapt to a new digital age and assist in the development of smart education in Nigeria. This has not only improved academic performance but has also instilled a love for learning in students, helping them to reach their full potential.

The Teacher Internship Scheme which was introduced by the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), to address the dearth of teachers in the field of smart education being championed by the commission in Nigeria, with the establishment of 37 smart schools across the country.

The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) is providing technical support for the execution of the smart education programme in Nigeria and has committed about $10.4 million to the project.

Additionally, the state minister has been a champion for inclusivity in education by creating a transnational educational policy that will promote diversity and massive enrollment in tertiary education institutions. The minister has also created a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their background or abilities. This has helped to create a safe and supportive learning environment where all students can thrive.

Moreover, Yusuf Sununu has shown a deep commitment to improving the education sector and ensuring that all children have access to better and quality education

Abbas Datti writes from Kano via abbasdatti448@gmail.com.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

President Bola Tinubu expressed profound grief and condemnation over the recent attack on Nigerian soldiers during a rescue mission to Okuoma Community in Delta State. 

Tinubu expressed his sadness in a statement released today. 

The incident, which occurred on Thursday, March 14, 2024, reportedly claimed the lives of several military personnel, including high-ranking officers. 

The President described the attack as unprovoked and cowardly, stating the sacrifices made by the brave servicemen and women who put their lives on the line to maintain peace and security in the nation.

Among the casualties were a commanding officer, two majors, one captain, and twelve soldiers, along with one civilian. 

Tinubu extended his deepest condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers, their colleagues, and loved ones.

He was quoted as saying, “I extend my profound condolences to the families of these fallen soldiers, their colleagues and their loved ones. The military high command is already responding to this incident. The cowardly offenders responsible for this heinous crime will not go unpunished..

He noted that any attack on the armed forces is a direct assault on the nation itself and vowed to relentlessly pursue peace and security across Nigeria. 

The President granted full authority to the Defence Headquarters and Chief of Defence Staff to ensure that those responsible for the attack are brought to justice swiftly.

He praised the heroism, courage, and patriotism of the fallen soldiers, noting that they join the ranks of the nation’s esteemed defenders who sacrificed everything for the country. 

President Tinubu equally reiterated his government’s unwavering commitment to achieving peace and tranquilly in every corner of Nigeria, calling upon divine intervention to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria and safeguard its armed forces.

By Usman Muhammad Salihu 

In Nigeria, amalgamating diverse cultures, religions, ethnicities, and political ideologies presents opportunities and challenges. To navigate this intricate tapestry effectively, embracing diversity is paramount. Rather than viewing differences as divisive, Nigerians should celebrate the richness they bring to the nation’s identity.

Ultimately, the path to unity in Nigeria lies in embracing diversity while recognizing the common bonds that unite its people. Nigerians can forge a stronger, more resilient nation by celebrating their shared heritage and respecting their differences. Through dialogue, education, inclusivity, and a rejection of extremism, they can build a future where diversity is celebrated as a source of strength.

Open and respectful dialogue is the cornerstone of understanding and reconciliation. By engaging in conversations that promote empathy and mutual respect, Nigerians can bridge divides across religious, ethnic, regional, and political lines. Platforms for formal and informal dialogue offer opportunities for meaningful exchanges that foster unity amidst diversity.

Education is a powerful tool for dispelling stereotypes and fostering appreciation for diversity. By promoting educational initiatives highlighting Nigeria’s multifaceted heritage, individuals can better understand their fellow citizens’ perspectives and experiences. 

Nigerians should advocate for policies and practices that promote equal opportunities and representation across all sectors. By championing inclusivity, they can dismantle barriers and create pathways for collaboration and unity.

Nigerians must collectively reject extremism in all its forms and embrace moderation, tolerance, and compromise. They can build a more cohesive and harmonious society by fostering a culture of inclusivity and understanding.

 Navigating Nigeria’s diverse landscape requires a commitment to dialogue, understanding, and inclusivity. By embracing diversity, fostering dialogue, promoting education, advocating for inclusivity, rejecting extremism, engaging in active citizenship, and cultivating unity in diversity, Nigerians can overcome their differences and build a more cohesive and resilient society.

Usman Muhammad Salihu writes and can be reached via muhammadu5363@gmail.com.

By Ammar Muhammad Rajab

On November 1st, 2023, following mobilisation by Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, I enrolled with the NYSC at one of the accredited centres in Zaria. I was deployed to Wailo Camp in the Ganjuwa Local Government Area of Bauchi State shortly after.

I departed Zaria on November 2, 2023, via a commercial bus. Following a six-hour journey, I arrived in Bauchi and spent the night there. On the afternoon of the 3rd of November, a Friday, I boarded another commercial car for a 60-kilometer journey to the camp where I had been deployed.

Immediately upon my arrival at Wailo camp, I underwent registration with the NYSC officials. Subsequently, I received the necessary items and materials for my three-week stay at the camp. The orientation period blended joy, intensity, lasting memories, education, and valuable information. I vividly recall the rigorous drilling, the monotonous parades, and the enlightening lectures delivered by various professional bodies, including but not limited to the DSS, Army, Police, NHIA, WEMA Bank, Fire Service, NIM, NSE, OIC Foundation, NAFDAC, FRSC, NDLEA, NDE, NGOs, SDGs, NOA, USAID, and YOMA, among others.

The army and Man O’ War were highly professional in their approaches. Despite the unfamiliar circumstances we found ourselves in, I enjoyed the teachings and orientation provided at the camp.

Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED), an acronym for a NYSC program established in 2012, was designed to tackle the pervasive issue of unemployment, a significant challenge confronting Nigerian youths and graduates today. This issue has become a national concern as some of our most educated and dynamic individuals are not actively contributing to economic and social development.

The SAED program was charged with raising corps members’ awareness of the realities of the Nigerian job market. Offering foundational entrepreneurship training and practical skills aimed to empower them to consider the possibilities of self-employment or initiating their businesses.

Many corps members harbour disdain for the program, often attributing it to the lengthy duration of both the lectures and practical sessions. During our orientation camp, the program ran daily from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., spanning 5 hours. In the classroom, it was common to observe corps members dozing off, engrossed in their smartphones, displaying signs of fatigue, or engaging in other unserious behaviour.

To me, that period was the highlight of the orientation camp. I gained invaluable knowledge, particularly during the lecture delivered by an official from the National Directorate of Employment following the distribution of the guidebook titled “Starting My Own Small Business: Participant’s Workbook.” This lecture was a pivotal and transformative moment for anyone responsible and attentive.

 We were imparted with comprehensive insights into the intricacies of establishing a formal business in Nigeria and the diverse opportunities available across various sectors. We also learned how one could secure grants or loans from government agencies tasked with that responsibility or from commercial banks to facilitate business expansion.

Many individuals who had successfully leveraged these opportunities were invited to deliver practical lectures, and they did so with professionalism and expertise. Their first-hand experiences served as invaluable lessons for us, providing practical insights and guidance on effectively navigating the entrepreneurial landscape.

I listened attentively, maintained focus, and diligently documented all the necessary information provided during the SAED program. Hajia Jummai Idris Reme, the Head of the SAED program in the camp, often reiterated to us that “the SAED program is a corps members’ pathway to wealth creation,” and I wholeheartedly agreed with her sentiment. With commitment and dedication, one could create wealth using the knowledge acquired during the SAED program.

Before attending the camp, I already had a business idea and was working diligently towards realising it. However, attending the SAED classes further ignited and encouraged my efforts. As a result, I recently took the step to register my business with the Corporate Affairs Commission, spurred on by the confidence and insights gained from the SAED program.

In Wailo Camp, I initially participated in the ICT class under the SAED program, but I eventually discontinued my involvement due to some reservations. Subsequently, I joined the educational class, which I found very engaging. However, the class experienced low participation rates. Although we initially started with around twenty-plus participants, we concluded the class with fewer than ten individuals.

Despite the low turnout, I thoroughly enjoyed the educational class. We were exposed to numerous informative, educative, and innovative ideas about education, which enriched my understanding and perspective on the subject.

Most of the participants in the educational class were educators, except myself and one other individual. During this class, I learned about the legal processes involved in opening a private school. I am grateful to Aishatu Yusuf Saje, the head of the educational class, for imparting such valuable knowledge.

Isa Mohammed Inuwa and I were privileged to represent the educational class on Friday, November 17th, 2023, during the camp’s inter-platoon skills acquisition competition exhibition. Following my presentation, Mrs. Rifkatu Daniel Yakubu, the Bauchi State Coordinator, offered valuable advice. She emphasised the importance of establishing a standard school to contribute to our country’s education development. Mrs Yakubu highlighted the prevalence of substandard schools and stressed the significance of ensuring quality education. Her advice resonated deeply with us and reminded us of our responsibility to shape the educational landscape.

With the assistance of the SAED program, four corps members were able to secure a total of 2.3 million Naira in grants. Among the 90 corps members who submitted their business plans, seven were selected to present their proposals to WEMA Bank officials, fellow corps members, and other NYSC officials. Ultimately, four corps members emerged as grant recipients, with amounts awarded: 800,000 Naira, 700,000 Naira, 600,000 Naira, and 200,000 Naira, respectively. This achievement highlights the effectiveness of the SAED program in fostering entrepreneurship and facilitating financial empowerment among corps members.

The prevalent laziness among many youths today contributes negatively to their disdain for the SAED program. Several corps members have expressed that they consider it the most “boring” aspect of the orientation camp. However, the parade is the most tedious part of the camp. This is because I lack any passion for becoming an army or paramilitary officer, which diminishes my enthusiasm for the parade activities.

The blame should not be placed on the NYSC SAED program itself. Instead, the laziness and lack of foresight among many of our youth and graduates hinder their appreciation of this valuable opportunity. The SAED program serves as a platform to showcase talents and acquire knowledge that can be instrumental in thriving during and after the NYSC program. We need to seize this opportunity and make the most of it, as it may only come once in a lifetime.

Ammar Muhammad Rajab is a journalist who writes from Kano and can be reached at ammarmuhammad1993@gmail.com.

By Prof. Abdelghaffar Amoka

In 2011, the exchange rate was 1 USD to 155 naira, and in 2024, it is about 1 USD to 1,550 naira. That is a ratio of 1: 10 for 2011 and 2024.

In 2011, a loaf of bread cost 150 naira, and in 2024, it is about 1,500 naira. That is a ratio of 1: 10 for 2011 and 2024.

In 2011, a bag of maize cost about 5,000 naira. In 2024, it is about 55,000 naira. That is a ratio of 1: 10 for 2011 and 2024.

The price of most basic needs has increased ten times between 2011 and now. That is still a ratio of about 1: 10 for 2011 and 2024.

Then, the price of fuel in 2011 was 65 naira per litre, and the current price in 2024 is about 690 naira. That is still a ratio of about 1: 10 for 2011 and 2024.

If the exchange rate and fuel price remain the same, if the minimum wage was 18,000 naira in 2011, it should be 180,000 naira in 2024.

Abdelghaffar Amoka Abdelmalik, PhD, wrote from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. He can be reached via aaabdelmalik@gmail.com.