Nigeria

By Idris Mustapha

 The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) revealed in a heart-wrenching report that Nigeria’s inflation rate climbed to an excruciating 33.88% in October 2024. The pain and suffering reflected in these official figures tell a story far more profound than mere economic indicators—they represent countless nights of parents going to bed hungry, having sacrificed their meals to feed their children.

The NBS’s latest report paints a devastating picture, showing a relentless climb from September’s already unbearable rate of 32.70%. “Looking at the movement,” the Bureau notes with clinical precision that contrasts sharply with the human suffering it represents, “the September 2024 headline inflation rate showed an increase of 0.55% compared to the August 2024 headline inflation rate.” Behind these sterile statistics lie the anguished faces of market women watching their businesses crumble.

The Bureau’s year-on-year analysis reveals an even more distressing reality, with October’s rate standing 6.55 percentage points higher than the 27.33% recorded in October 2023. The NBS report states, “This shows that the headline inflation rate (year-on-year basis) increased in September 2024 when compared to the same month in the preceding year.” Each percentage point represents another burden on the shoulders of ordinary Nigerians, many of whom are already stretched to their breaking point.

The official data traces a cruel journey through 2024, from January’s troubling 29.90% to the current devastating peak. The NBS’s monthly tracking shows how “the rate of increase in the average price level is more than the rate of increase in the average price level” each month. Behind these technical terms lies the reality of young graduates seeing their dreams fade and elderly citizens finding their pensions increasingly worthless.

Perhaps most heartbreaking is the Bureau’s documentation of the Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) price surge, which the NBS directly links to the inflation crisis. This price hike, implemented in early September and again in October, has dealt a cruel blow to our society’s most vulnerable members. Families are forced to make impossible choices: buying food or medicine, paying school fees, or keeping their small businesses alive.

The statistical evidence presented by the NBS serves as an official testament to the widespread suffering. Markets that once bustled with life now echo the whispered concerns of traders and customers alike, haggling not for profit but for survival. The weight of this economic burden is visible in the tired eyes of parents who must explain to their children why they can no longer afford their favorite meals or school supplies.

As we look to the future, the NBS’s continuous monitoring of this crisis is a stark reminder of the urgent need for intervention. While the Bureau diligently records these devastating figures, real families make painful sacrifices to survive another day. The official data serves as a clarion call for immediate action, as each statistical update pushes more Nigerians below the poverty line, leaving deep scars that may take generations to heal.

The National Bureau of Statistics meticulously documents this crisis, which demands policy changes and a fundamental recognition of the human suffering it represents. Behind every percentage point increase lies a story of resilience: families supporting each other through unimaginable hardship, communities coming together to share what little they have. Yet, without significant intervention, these stories of resilience documented in the national statistics may soon turn into tales of despair as more Nigerians find themselves unable to cope with the relentless rise in the prices of basic necessities.

Idris Mustapha wrote via idrismustapha25@gmail.com.

By Anwar Usman

Ibrahim Anate, the acting Executive Secretary, Kogi State Agency for the Control of Aids, has declared that no fewer than 50,000 people are currently living with HIV/AIDs in the state.

Anate made this kniwn in an interactive session with journalists during a road Walk in commemoration of the 2024 World AIDS Day in Lokoja, the state capital, on Monday.

The walk was organised by the Centre for Integrated Health Programmes, in collaboration with the Kogi State Agency for the Control of Aids.

In his speech, Anate said, “About 50,000 people are living with HIV presently out of which 36,066 are presently on treatment in Kogi State.”We are seriously fighting the scourge and we are giving the awareness to all the community and the hard-to-reach areas of the awareness of HIV in Kogi State.”

He further added that the state government, under Alhaji Usman Ododo, is doing its best to see that people who are living with HIV AIDs are on treatment and pregnant women who are HIV positive deliver negative babies.

“The current administration is also striving to ensure that people who are positive in Kogi State will turn to negative. The government is seriously commited to provide support to the Ministry of Health, and KOSACA to see that we take the campaign to the very hard-to-reach community and the community at large in Kogi State,” he added.

However, Anate, appealed to Ododo to sign the Anti Stigma HIV Law, which was recently passed by the state House of Assembly.

“When the governor ascents to this law, people that are HIV positive can have the confidence to declare their status. Many can’t do this because of the stigmatization in the society”, he added.

On his part, the Kogi State Technical Lead, Centre for Integrated Health Programmes, Inyama Lawrencia, lamented the transmission of HIV AIDs from mother to child in the state.

“We have been advocating for every mother to go for anti-natal services so that they can know their HIV status. With the record on the ground about mother-to-child HIV transmission, CIHP has been working in the communities to sensitise women to ensure that they come out to the masses to know their HIV status.

He noted that “one of the challenges is that due to the economic constraints of the country, Some Women who are supposed to go out to know their status don’t even go because of financial constraints”.

By Ibrahim Abdullahi

Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024, commemorates the 32nd International Day of Persons with Disabilities celebration worldwide.

On this very special day, several celebrations of the International Day for Persons with Disabilities will take place in different parts of the world, making it a worldwide event. 

However, for others, it is a historic occasion. This may be the first time they celebrate the day; this could be because they have recently joined the community of people with disabilities due to illness, accident, or other reasons.

 Many thanks to former Nigerian President Muhammad Buhari and the individuals involved in the tireless and backbreaking efforts to pass and implement the Disability Bill into Law 2018, which has never been in Nigeria’s history since its independence.

I want to remind us that DISABILITY is not a curse or disease. It is a condition that can be rehabilitated depending on the type of disability one is struggling with. There is always ability in disability. We should not be discouraged!

Thanks to those who, in some way, took time to celebrate with us and the good people of Nigeria and Africa in general for witnessing this special day with us. 

The world stands still for us to salute our courage and fortitude to triumph over challenges we overcame and the ones coming our way. The world celebrates our abilities despite our disabilities.

We live in a world where change has become a constant basis of our individual and collective societies. In this advanced technological modern period, technological wonders appear at regular intervals, and our lives as members of particular societies regarding persons with disabilities are clearly different from those of those without disabilities. This requires inclusion to reshape our community. 

Ending discrimination, injustice, and humiliation against people with disabilities is essential. We should embrace diversity in all its forms. Tolerance and accepting our differences are important; we must be recognized as humans. Let us unite to improve our society, Nigeria. Some scholars say that everyone is disabled in one way or another, and I agree. 

Happy International Day of Persons with Disability, everyone. 

Ibrahim Abdullahi can be contacted via ibrahimbsw23@gmail.com.

By Haroon Aremu

After fierce contention between Vice President Kamala Harris and Donald Trump for the next occupant of the White House, with the latter emerging victorious, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s congratulatory message to the President-elect reignited intense discussion about the relationship between both nations. 

The president’s eagerness to strengthen ties between Nigeria and the United States raises questions. Has the partnership between both countries truly benefited Nigeria? Or was Mr. President’s call merely another political courtesy? These questions prompt us to examine the nature of Nigeria’s relationship with the U.S., its economic implications, and the broader political dynamics at play.

Nigeria and the U.S. have maintained a long-standing economic relationship. Nigeria is one of America’s top trading partners in Africa. In 2019, bilateral trade between the two nations exceeded $10 billion, and the U.S. remains Nigeria’s largest foreign investor, particularly in the oil and gas sector. 

However, Nigeria’s economy continues to struggle, primarily due to its overreliance on oil. With global shifts toward renewable energy, including in the U.S., Nigeria must diversify its economy to remain competitive and avoid being left behind.

Critics argue that while the U.S.-Nigeria partnership has brought some benefits, these advantages are not felt equally across the population. The wealth generated from trade and investment remains largely concentrated in the oil sector, leaving many Nigerians excluded from broader economic gains. The promise of diversification remains largely unfulfilled, and the average citizen continues to bear the brunt of the country’s dependence on oil.

The political dynamics of the U.S. and Nigeria share striking similarities, particularly in their recent elections. Both the 2020 U.S. election between Donald Trump and Joe Biden and Nigeria’s 2023 election, where Bola Tinubu contested mainly against Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar, were “reportedly” marred by allegations of fraud, electoral manipulation, and identity politics. Just as many Americans questioned the integrity of their electoral process, Nigerians also faced concerns over corruption and electoral malpractice.

However, Nigeria can learn from the U.S. by adopting reforms that promote a certain level of transparency, credibility, and inclusiveness in its electoral system, as witnessed in 2024. While the U.S. system has its challenges, its efforts to ensure a fair and free election through checks and balances offer valuable lessons for Nigeria, which must work to eliminate corruption and build public trust in the electoral process. 

These reforms will help create an electoral system that reflects the people’s will and ensures fair participation. 

Transparency, accountability, and the active participation of civil society will be vital to improving Nigeria’s elections and ensuring the people’s will is genuinely reflected in government.

Nigeria’s economy faces pressing challenges, including over 30% inflation and a soaring unemployment rate. The country’s dependence on oil exports makes it vulnerable to global market fluctuations. 

The need for diversification has never been more urgent. Nigeria must expand into agriculture, technology, and manufacturing sectors to create a more sustainable and resilient economy.

While U.S.-Nigeria partnerships in agriculture, technology, and infrastructure development have created some jobs, the benefits are often limited. Without proper policies and management, the economic gains from these partnerships fail to reach those who need them most. Corruption hinders inclusive growth, with the wealth generated by foreign investments rarely benefiting the broader population.

The U.S. has provided substantial aid to Nigeria over the years, including over $125 million in COVID-19 assistance and various health initiatives, such as PEPFAR, which has improved healthcare access. 

Educational programs have also significantly impacted Nigerian schools, providing millions of books and teaching resources. However, critics argue that much of this aid addresses immediate needs without addressing the deeper, systemic issues that hinder long—term development, such as corruption, poor governance, and institutional inefficiency.

Though aid has brought short-term relief, Nigeria must push for real, lasting change. Relying on external assistance alone is not enough without addressing the root causes of poverty, unemployment, and economic instability. 

Development cannot be achieved through aid alone—it requires internal reforms and institutional strengthening.

To President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria is at a critical juncture. It faces significant economic challenges, including the risk of recession, but the partnership with the United States offers an opportunity to stimulate growth, attract investment, and create jobs. 

While the World Bank acknowledges Nigeria’s efforts through macro-fiscal reforms like unifying exchange rates and phasing out gasoline subsidies, these changes must be carefully managed to minimize short-term negative impacts on vulnerable groups. 

Scaling up social protection programs, investing in critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure, and promoting economic diversification into areas like agriculture, technology, and manufacturing are essential to reducing reliance on oil and ensuring long-term stability. 

The World Bank’s $2.25 billion funding through the RESET program can enhance revenue mobilization, improve governance, and foster private sector growth.

Nigeria must strengthen its dialogue with the U.S., showcase investment opportunities, and deepen cooperation on security. Moving forward, Nigeria must prioritize real, actionable partnerships that deliver sustainable benefits to its people, avoid actions akin to political fraternization, and focus on inclusive development. 

The world is watching, and now is the time for decisive action to secure Nigeria’s future.

Haroon Aremu Abiodun, author of Youth Service for National Stability: A Corpers’ Chronicle, advocates for national development, has received an award from PRNigeria Center, and is an investigative research journalist. He can be reached at exponentumera@gmail.com.

By Bilyamin Abdulmumin, PhD

Passing bills in Nigeria (and apparently everywhere else) has a tradition of generating controversies. For instance, the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) endured decades of rejection before finally passing into law. When the Electoral Act 2022 was signed into law, the opposition went agog, crying to high heaven. Similarly, when the Social Media Bill was passed, it was seen as proof of a government obsession with suppressing dissent.

The reform that is now raising the dust is the Tax Reform Bills. Days after sending the bills to the national assembly, the nineteen governors of the northern states convened in Kaduna to oppose them, describing them as anti-North. The Federal Executive Council (FAC) also backed the northern governors. However, like the vigour with which subsidy removal was pursued, the president insisted on proceeding with the reform.

Northern governors fear amending VAT to a derivation-based model will diminish their states’ revenue contributions. Governor Yahya, the NGF chairperson, notes that companies remit VAT based on their headquarters, not where goods and services are consumed. Consequently, while MTN services consumed in Kano generate VAT for Lagos, Kano’s allocation decreases despite the consumption.

This reform is a dream come true for the state where the plants and industries are sited; unfortunately, for the state’s bottom rock in terms of industries, it is a crying face to them.

 While seeking redress to the proposed bill, it is also better to take charge; no more time is needed for the North to dust off all the moribund infrastructure, pass and implement industrial policies, continue with the uncompleted, and maintain the few industries in the region than now. 

There are plenty of them in Kano; notwithstanding Karota revenue, Abba Kabir Yusuf needs to rise to industrious revenues. Dangote’s Tomato processing industry is said not to be meeting expectations and optimism.

In Zamfara, a once peaceful and serene area, Dauda Lawal needs to recall all the companies aground and those existing only in paper, e.g., fertiliser plants by his predecessor Mutawalle. Apart from raising revenue, industrialisation benefits in Zamfara are numerous, combating even the insecurities that bedevil the state (through job opportunities in the long run).

In Kaduna, Uba Sani needs to continue with the Malam El-rufai’s exploit, maintaining and upgrading Olam Nigeria and a host of economic initiatives.

In Kebbi state, the comrade Dr. Nasir Idris Kauran Gwandu needs to extend his widely recommended administration to continue the ongoing legacies of  Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, like the bioethanol mega plant, maintaining and promoting already established ones ( e.g., GB Food tomato processing plant and WACOT). 

Ironically, the southern states (especially the west), where the proposed bill is set to favour, are upping the ante. Lagos, for instance, is making unprecedented investments in energy generation.

The interest in remodelling the proposed Tax Reform Bills is not enough; it is a wake-up call for the North to raise the bar regarding regional industrialisation.

Bilyamin Abdulmumin, PhD, wrote via bilal4riid13@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam 

Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has expressed strong opposition to the tax reform bills introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, cautioning that their implementation could significantly harm the northern region.

The controversial bills, which propose shifting the basis for Value Added Tax (VAT) distribution to the location of consumption, have sparked widespread resistance, particularly in the north. 

Key stakeholders, including northern governors, traditional rulers, and the Northern Elders Forum, have called for the withdrawal of the proposed legislation.

Speaking with BBC Hausa, Zulum criticized the rapid progress of the bills through the National Assembly, contrasting it with the protracted passage of other critical legislation, such as the Petroleum Industry Bill, which took nearly two decades to become law.

“We condemn these bills. They will set the north back and affect other regions, including some states in the South West like Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, and Ondo,” Zulum said. 

“This is not mere opposition; it is about safeguarding our future. We urge President Tinubu to reconsider. 

“He received substantial support from the north during the election, and our interests must be protected.”

Zulum warned that the financial strain imposed by the reforms could make it difficult for many northern states to pay salaries, adding, “Even if we manage to pay, it won’t be sustainable in the following year.”

When asked if the bills would exacerbate poverty and insecurity in the north, the governor affirmed, “Yes, it will. This isn’t just about the north; even Lagos is concerned. If so many regions are against these bills, why push forward without careful consideration?”

Zulum also addressed speculation about lawmakers being influenced by lobbying or kickbacks. 

“There are rumours, but we cannot be sure. What we need is patriotism. We have children, grandchildren, and relatives in rural areas. We must avoid endorsing policies that would hinder their progress.”

While emphasizing that his stance is not an act of defiance against the federal government, Zulum maintained that it calls for a more thoughtful approach. 

“We supported and voted for President Tinubu, but these bills are not in our best interest. We are simply asking for a reconsideration to protect the future of our people and the nation at large.”

Dear President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,

I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. 

I commend you, Your Excellency, for the bold reforms implemented under your leadership, including removing fuel subsidies and unifying the exchange rate. 

As you continue to lead Nigeria through a critical period in our history marked by your far-reaching reforms, I feel compelled to address a critical issue that could significantly impact our nation’s progress and economic stability. 

In recent weeks, there have been reports that certain high-ranking presidential advisers are allegedly manipulating and forcing various regulatory agencies to intimidate and harass companies in the media, oil and gas, telecommunications, financial services, banking, fintech, and FMCG sectors. 

This behaviour undermines your administration’s efforts to create a conducive business environment and threatens Nigeria’s economic recovery.

Sir, if it is true that high-ranking officials within the government who should be doing all they can to deliver on your mandate are the same people who undermine it by continuing to exploit regulatory agencies for personal gain, we risk the exit of multinational corporations, the shutdown of local businesses that struggle to comply with arbitrary regulations aimed at stifling competition, and the erosion of investor confidence, etc. 

Mr. President, your commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s economy through your different policies and initiatives is commendable. However, these efforts must be supported by a transparent regulatory framework that protects businesses from undue harassment. 

I urge you to investigate these allegations and take decisive action against any misuse of power by government officials who seek to manipulate regulatory bodies for personal gain.

Reinforcing the independence of these agencies will not only protect businesses but also restore trust among stakeholders in the Nigerian economy. Your actions in response to these challenges will significantly influence our country’s direction in the coming years. 

I trust that you will consider this matter with the urgency it deserves.

Thank you for your service, Mr President.

Sincerely,

Adeola Adepoju

Jabi, Abuja

By Uzair Adam  

The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has announced plans to resume the collection of a $300 landing fee from helicopter operators across the country.  

Speaking at the 53rd Annual General Meeting of the Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers Association on Thursday in Kano State, the Director of Air Traffic Services, Tayo John, revealed the agency’s financial challenges and the need to implement the fee.  

Presenting a paper titled “Financial Constraints Affecting Nigeria’s Air Navigation Provision: Impact and Mitigation Strategies,” John explained that the Federal Government had previously directed the agency to suspend the fee, but NAMA is now determined to reintroduce it.  

“In the next few weeks, we will recommence the collection of the $300 landing fee from helicopter operators,” John stated.  

He added, “We started earlier, but the government directed us to halt it due to certain issues in the country. This time, however, there will be no further delays.”   

While the exact date for the fee enforcement was not disclosed, John noted that the measure is essential to alleviate NAMA’s financial constraints.

By Talent Bassey Akpan

Climate change is one of the most pressing issues facing the world today. Nigeria is particularly vulnerable to its effects due to its diverse ecosystems, economic reliance on agriculture, and significant population density. The changes in climate patterns have profound implications for Nigeria’s environment, economy, and public health, making it crucial for the country to understand and address these challenges effectively.

In Nigeria, climate change has led to erratic weather patterns, manifesting in extreme floods and prolonged droughts. Since the late 20th century, rainfall patterns across the country have become increasingly unpredictable. For instance, while some regions experience heavy rains resulting in severe flooding, others suffer from acute water shortages and drought, particularly in the north.

The fluctuations impact agricultural output, as farmers rely on predictable rainy seasons for planting and harvesting. Consequently, food security becomes compromised, increasing food prices and poverty levels.

Agriculture is the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, employing a significant portion of the population and contributing substantially to the GDP. However, climate change severely threatens agriculture, disrupting the growing conditions essential for crops and livestock. Changes in rainfall patterns can lead to crop failures while rising temperatures can reduce yields for staple crops like maize, cassava, and rice.

The situation is exacerbated by the fact that many Nigerian farmers employ traditional farming methods, leaving them ill-equipped to adapt to these rapid changes. As agricultural productivity declines, rural communities are further marginalized, leading to increased migration towards urban centres and creating additional strain on city resources.

The health implications of climate change in Nigeria are also far-reaching. Heatwaves, rising temperatures, and poor air quality can contribute to an increase in respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. In addition, changing weather patterns can spread vector-borne diseases, such as malaria and dengue fever, as the habitats for mosquitoes and other carriers expand.

Food insecurity and malnutrition resulting from agricultural decline may also lead to increased susceptibility to diseases and weakened immune systems, particularly among children and vulnerable populations.

In conclusion, the effects of climate change in Nigeria require a multifaceted approach, combining immediate action with long-term strategies. Efforts must include investment in climate-resilient agriculture, enhancement of water management practices, and promotion of sustainable land use. Furthermore, community awareness and education should be prioritized to prepare residents for potential climate impacts.

As Nigeria continues to grapple with the challenges posed by climate change, concerted efforts from the government, civil society, and international partners are essential to safeguard the future and ensure a sustainable environment for future generations. It is imperative for all stakeholders, including the citizens, to engage actively in combating this pressing global issue.

Talent Bassey Akpan wrote from Mass Communication, Bayero University, Kano.

By Zayyad I. Muhammad

The 60,000 barrel-per-day Port Harcourt refinery has officially resumed operations after years of inactivity. This marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to revitalise its oil and gas sector. As one of the country’s oldest refineries, with a history spanning 59 years, the Port Harcourt facility is now expected to load at least 200 trucks of petroleum products daily, easing supply constraints, reducing dependence on imported fuels, and introducing a new price regime to compete with the 650,000 barrels per day Dangote refinery. 

Nigeria’s four state-owned refineries have long been entangled in corruption, mismanagement, and relentless pipeline attacks by organised oil thieves. These issues have not only crippled their operational capacity but also forced the country to rely heavily on imported petroleum products, despite its status as a major oil producer.

As the old Port Harcourt refinery has resumed processing crude, with Warri and Kaduna expected to follow soon, an important question arises: Should Nigeria continue with the traditional model of absolute state control and management of its refineries? This outdated approach has proven ineffective, plagued by inefficiencies, corruption, and underperformance.

This presents both a challenge and an opportunity for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to revamp Nigeria’s refinery management system and introduce reforms to ensure long-term production and efficiency.

When all four state refineries are fully revived and operational, as anticipated, President Tinubu’s government has three viable options for reforming the management of Nigeria’s four state-owned refineries. One approach could involve retaining ownership of one refinery while granting it full autonomy to manage its operations independently, cover its expenses, and remit dividends to the government.

Another option is to lease one of the refineries to an oil company or a group of investors interested in petroleum product refining, ensuring it operates efficiently under private-sector expertise. Lastly, the government could fully privatise one refinery, distributing shares among the federal government, host communities, and Nigeria’s 36 states. This inclusive approach would address diverse stakeholder interests while ensuring effective management.

However, discussions about Nigeria’s refineries are incomplete without addressing the critical issue of managing the country’s extensive 5,120-kilometre oil pipeline network and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPC Ltd.). While the engagement of local communities by NNPC Ltd. has started yielding positive results, significant challenges persist.

The most pressing issues include frequent illegal tapping by oil thieves, sabotage, encroachments on pipeline rights-of-way, delays in detecting leaks, and equipment failures caused by the inaccessibility of certain locations. Compounding these problems is the reliance on outdated methods of pipeline management, which hinder the system’s efficiency and responsiveness.

To address these challenges, adopting advanced technologies is essential. Systems like SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition), Fibre Optic Cable (FOC) networks, and tools such as “go-devils,” scrapers, or smart pigs can revolutionise pipeline management. These technologies provide real-time monitoring and early warning systems, enabling swift responses to potential threats or damages, even in remote and inaccessible areas. By integrating these solutions, Nigeria can significantly enhance the security and functionality of its pipeline network, ensuring a more reliable and efficient oil and gas sector.

The revival of the Port Harcourt old refinery and the anticipated return to operation of the Warri and Kaduna refineries are commendable achievements. However, the Tinubu administration must critically evaluate and adopt a new, feasible, profitable, and masses-friendly approach to managing these refineries.

The traditional model of state absolute control has consistently failed, resulting in inefficiencies, corruption, and financial losses. It is time for a transformative strategy that ensures the refineries operate sustainably while delivering maximum benefits to the Nigerian people.

Zayyad I. Muhammad writes from Abuja, zaymohd@yahoo.com.