Nigeria

By Uzair Adam Imam 

Former Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar expressed his satisfaction with handing power over to a democratically elected president in 1999.

Abubakar made this disclosure during an interview with journalists over the weekend. 

He stated, “Not at all! Not at all! Not at all! I am happy with what is going on. Yes, everything is not perfect, but here we are today, celebrating 25 years of unbroken democracy.”

Abdulsalami, who handed over power to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, acknowledged that while there are still challenges, Nigeria has made significant progress since 1999.

“We are not yet there but have come a long way since 1999. The only drawback we have in the system is people still sell their votes, and they do all types of things; they allow the politicians to use them in ballot box snatching here and there – unnecessary things that we should have overcome at this age.”

He emphasised the importance of voters holding elected officials accountable and lamented that some individuals still engage in vote-buying.

“Unfortunately, I still maintain, there are some very few people who abuse the process and they allow their votes to be bought. 

“And if they are buying these votes, certainly they cannot be called to be accountable, the people who are being so elected.”

Despite these challenges, Abdulsalami expressed optimism about Nigeria’s democratic progress and the growing awareness among citizens that their votes matter.

Suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police, Abba Kyari, has been released from the Kuje Custodial Centre after spending almost two years in detention. 

Kyari’s release was confirmed by the Nigerian Correctional Service spokesperson, Adamu Duza, who said the former police chief had met his bail conditions. 

The Federal High Court in Abuja had granted Kyari bail on May 22, 2024, to enable him to bury his mother, Yachilla Kyari, who died on May 5. 

Kyari was arrested in February 2022 by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for alleged involvement in international drug trafficking.

He was arraigned in court alongside four other police officers and two suspected drug traffickers. 

The case is still ongoing, with the next hearing scheduled for May 31, 2024. 

Kyari’s release has sparked mixed reactions, with some calling for his reinstatement and others demanding that he face justice for his alleged crimes.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs Saidu Yusuf has assumed leadership of Nigeria Customs Service Zone A Headquarters, succeeding ACG Hammi Swomen who retired after 35 years of service.

The handover ceremony took place at the Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, Headquarters on May 29, 2024. 

Outgoing ACG Swomen expressed gratitude to God, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, and the management team for their support.

He also commended the Area Controllers within the Zone, saying, “I’m leaving Zone A in good hands. I believe in your competence, and I know we will celebrate a better result than last year.” 

Incoming Zonal Coordinator ACG Yusuf praised his predecessor as “principled, hardworking, and intelligent.”

He sought cooperation from officers within the zone, saying, “Let us engage stakeholders and ourselves to move this service forward. We have one goal: to succeed and leave Nigeria Customs Service better than we met it.” 

Customs Area Controllers within the zone hailed the outgoing ACG as a “thoroughbred professional” who shared his experience generously.

They pledged support to the incoming zonal coordinator, ACG Yusuf, as he begins his tenure.

By Bilyamin Abdulmumin

To commemorate Workers’ Day on May 1st, FG announced the long-awaited salary increase from 25% to 35 %. However, hours later, the NLC president, Joe Ajaero, kicked against the increase and instead stuck to the 615,000 they proposed as minimum wage.

Although this total figure looks astronomical, it suddenly looks normal, putting the breakdown that Ajaero gave into perspective, especially with the current high inflation. At least that amount should reflect the salary of anyone receiving 100k or more before Tinubu came to power. In other words, the breakdown might be exaggerated to the bottom-line salary earners but not the middle ones.

When several pundits shared their analysis on National Assembly wages, the Ajaero recommendation suddenly became realistic again. The National Assembly’s daily take-home is more than the recommended minimum monthly take-home. So, the argument is that if NA daily wages are so high, the minimum monthly salary asked by NLC should not be too much. This is quite plausible.

But from the interview Abdulaziz Abdulaziz gave, it could be discerned that the highest minimum wage the government is ready to pay is double the current minimum. Abdulaziz first clarified that the current salary increase is temporary, pending when the tripartite committee under the former head of service concluded their assignment. However, as a committee member, he said unlike the 25 to 35% increase, the minimum wage may go up to 50 to 60k. He also emphasised that the federal government is bidding for the highest among the three parties: federal, state, and private.

An argument accompanying the discussion of salary increases is the plight of non-governmental citizens. The argument is that if FG increases government workers’ salaries, what about the rest of the citizens? To buttress this point, government workers are said to be just about 10% of the total population. This argument appears to carry substance, but it is misleading by flipping the coin because the more money on the government workers, the more money on every one.

The people who should be rather pitied are the state and LG workers. Because some of these tiers of government still receive the 1999 salaries benchmark. A friend who works with the local government health sector summarises their predicament. He said a decade ago, when he married, a mudu of foreign rice was 450 naira, and they only used half of it. Now the mudu costs five times, and because their family has increased, they need the whole mudu, but the pathetic part is that the salary hasn’t only increased since, but several bogus deductions have eaten deep into it.

At this time when the FG and labour are arguing about high salary increases to meet public expectations due to high inflation, there is no better time to remind ourselves of the famous “Udoji award” than now.

As a fan of Dan Anache, I heard one of his songs mention “Udoji.” I understood that he was mocking someone, but I didn’t know what it meant, so I took it at face value and enjoyed the song. The lyrics read: “Kai baka soja, kai baka dan sanda, kattsaya jiran Udoji. To Udoji in dai sadaka ce muma araba abamu.” It wasn’t until I came across Mahmud Juga’s article titled “UPE, WAI and Udoji” that I realised what it meant. 

In the article, Jega concluded, “Why has there been no Adebo and no Udoji in this country since 1974? Any young person who does not know what that means should please ask the elders.” So, with the right name in hand, I did what everyone does when faced with a burning question—I turned to search engines.

The Middle East, the world’s oil bank, is known for conflicts and unrest, so anytime one arises, just like the current one is on the card, the global oil price experiences a meteorological rise. One of the most popular oil price rises occurred during the Arab-Israeli War and the Iranian revolution in the 1970s. This was when Nigeria had had an oil boom, and there appeared to be no idea what to do with excess money, so the Udoji Award was. 

Jerome Udoji chaired the committee focused on the effectiveness of public service. One of the committee’s recommendations was to increase the salary twofold, which was implemented by the military head of state, Yakubu Gowon. The salary increase was so popular that it became known after Udoji. Please, someone should tag the current chairman of the minimum wage committee, Bukar Goni Aji.

There is no oil boom now, but there is a subsidy removal boom. So, to paraphrase Jega, Please FG, why has there not been a Udoji Award since 1974?

By Dr. Mansur Hassan

In recent years, Kano State has been a focal point of political intrigue and traditional authority upheaval. This period of tension can be traced back to the administration of Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who, in 2019, made the contentious decision to create five new emirates: Kano, Gaya, Karaye, Bichi, and Rano. This move significantly altered the traditional power structure within the state.

The catalyst for this decision was an alleged accusation that the then Emir of Kano, His Royal Highness Muhammad Sanusi II, was supporting the opposition party and not endorsing Ganduje’s re-election bid in 2019. In an effort to diminish the influence of Emir Sanusi, Ganduje went as far as removing him from his position. Subsequently, HRH Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero was appointed as the new Emir of Kano.

This drastic change sparked debates and criticisms, particularly because it was executed despite a court order against it. However, the opposition, notably the Kwankwasiyya movement, chose not to incite unrest, highlighting their commitment to peace despite the significant political provocation.

The creation of the new emirates was perceived by many as a strategy to dilute the power and influence of the traditional emirate system. This move arguably undermined the dignity and historical significance of the Kano Emirate, not just within Nigeria but across the continent.

In a turn of events, the Kano State House of Assembly in 2024 decided to review and reverse the law that led to the creation of the five emirates. The Kano State Emirate Council (Repeal) Bill 2024 (1445 A.H) was enacted, aiming to restore the traditional structure to its former status:

Title and Commencement: This bill, officially cited as the Kano State Emirates Councils (Repeal) Bill, 2024 (1445 A.H), outlines the legislative intent and its commencement.

Repeal of Previous Laws: It repeals the Kano State Emirates Council Law, 2019 (1441 A.H), and all amendments made thereafter.

Abrogation of New Emirates: All offices created under the repealed law are abolished, and appointments made under the law are set aside.

Restoration of Traditional Titles: Traditional office holders and title holders elevated under the repealed law will revert to their previous positions based on recognized customs and traditions.

Governor’s Authority: The Governor is empowered to take necessary measures to restore the status of the Kano Emirate System as it was before the enactment of the repealed law.

Commissioner’s Role: The Commissioner responsible for Local Government will oversee transitional arrangements concerning assets and liabilities of the abolished emirates.

Key Questions and Concerns:

Legislative Reversal: Can the state House of Assembly reverse a law passed and assented to by the executive governor? Legally, a state assembly has the authority to repeal or amend existing laws, provided due legislative process is followed and the bill receives the governor’s assent.

Federal Intervention: Concerns arise about external influences, particularly from Abuja, creating unnecessary tension by attempting to reinstate the deposed emir through federal power and security agencies.

A Call for Unity:

To the people of Kano State, it is imperative not to allow external forces or individuals, who have lost the people’s trust, to manipulate the situation for political gains. The matter of the emirate is deeply rooted in tradition and should remain an internal affair. Both the reappointed Emir Muhammad Sunusi II and the deposed Emir Aminu Ado Bayero are brothers, and resolving this issue amicably is crucial for maintaining peace and dignity within Kano.

In conclusion, the political and traditional landscape of Kano State is at a crossroads. It is a time for reflection and careful consideration of actions that uphold the integrity and historical heritage of the Kano Emirate. The recent legislative changes signify a potential return to stability and respect for traditional structures, but it requires collective effort and respect for due process.

Mansur Hassan, PhD wrote the article and can be reached via mhassan@yumsuk.edu.ng

By Garba Sidi 

Patriotism is something any good citizen of a particular society must practice. Anyone who has no interest in the development of where they were born knows nothing. If we all care more about where we came from and do whatever we can to benefit our society, our lives would be on a great path. That wouldn’t happen without loving society and its people.

As it has been said many times, Hadejia has witnessed the leadership of many politicians as local government chairmen. Still, no one has seen half of what the current chairman, Honourable Abdulkadir Bala Umar, has put on the ground for the development of the people and the town.

Sadly, since the beginning of His Excellency Muhammad Namadi (Dan Modi), the current Governor who won the primary election for the APC and beat his running mate after the secondary election from the PDP, Mustapha Sule Lamido, rumours have circulated that he’s going to step down all chairmen and replace them with his allies, even though the law has already been verified to allow three-year terms, unlike before. Before the end of the reign of former Governor Muhammad Badaru, a bill was signed for an additional year for chairmen’s terms, for which all processes were completed and assigned.

We, the people of Hadejia, don’t support that idea. That’s why I want to bring attention to His Excellency and think deeply before taking that action. If, as you have said many times, you came to get what’s needed for the state and the development of the state is what’s on your agenda, prove it by letting Honourable Abdulkadir Bala Umar rule for a second term because he’s the one Hadejians need to continue developing the town.

They gave you one hundred per cent support during the campaign. They spent their wealth, time, and effort just for you to secure the position. Who could do that to someone they see as a rival? Only those close to you are trying to lead you down the wrong path, which may not bring you anything good in the end. He’s ruling us, and we like his ways, and it is not against anything if you let him rule for a second term.

We don’t need change in Hadejia.

Garba Sidi wrote via sidihadejia@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam Imam  

The House of Representatives has passed a bill to revert to the old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”, in a swift move that saw the bill pass through first, second, and third reading within minutes. 

House Leader, Professor Julius Ihonvbere, led the debate, arguing that the old anthem is a national symbol and sign of authority that acknowledges the country’s realities.  

He stated the need for Nigerians to embrace the anthem as a unifying force. 

However, Minority Leader, Kingsley Chinda, opposed the bill, citing the colonial origins of the old anthem, which was authored and composed by Britons.  

He questioned the timing of the bill, given the more pressing challenges facing the country. 

Despite Chinda’s objections, the bill received expedited passage and was subsequently passed by the lawmakers.  

The move marks a significant change, as the old anthem was replaced with the current one, “Arise, O Compatriots”, in 1978.

By Yusuf Yusuf 

Sometimes, even the starry-eyed optimist must give up on Nigeria. The way things go from bad to worse in the country today is appalling. The great novelist Chinua Achebe had diagnosed our problem as a nation where he said, “The trouble with Nigeria is simply and squarely a failure of leadership.” The leadership of this country is not doing enough to save us from what experts call a “failed” to a “collapsed” state. We fervently pray for God’s intervention. 

The recent revelation by an ace investigative journalist and maverick writer, Malam Jaafar Jaafar, is mindboggling! It highlights Nigerian leaders’ new joint venture in unrelenting efforts to run this country aground. It shows their insensitivity to the suffering of other Nigerians. How will a government that berates the payment subsidy of basic stuff for its citizenry and whose minimum wage is among the lowest approve such an unsubstantiated rise in the salary and allowances of only a “select group”?

I cannot unravel our leaders’ craze to undermine this nation’s progress. Sometimes, I feel like believing conspiracy theories about them being stooges of other groups with vested interests in our nation. Our leaders fail to grasp that when you cause your country to fail or collapse, you will spend the rest of your life a stranger, the life of a Black Hermit (apologies to the great Kenyan writer Ngugi wa Thiang’o).   

White-collar crimes are threatening the existence of Nigeria. Once upon a Giant of Africa is now a baby learning to crawl. Ironically, a country blessed with human and natural resources will become a poverty capital. The way these resources are mismanaged points an accusing finger to its leadership.

The level of suffering in Naija these days is monumental. The dream of having a meaningful life is becoming a mirage. The hopes of the young people are being shattered by daily reality in the country. Hunger and poverty have become our co-tenants—businesses, whatever the scale, are crumbling. Young graduates with both certificates and functional skills are roaming about our streets.  Sensible minds are afraid of what may happen next. You know, poverty always breeds crimes.

This trend needs to be reversed. More than anyone else, the Nigerian leader has a lot to do to reverse the rot and change the status quo. We can all borrow a leaf from other people’s books.  Nigerian leaders are very good at making allusions to attitudes which promote development in other climes. 

Charity, they say, begins at home. The best way the Nigerian leader can help his people catch up with progressive worlds is by renewing our hopes of the noble decision to cut the cost of governance, as leaders of these nations have done. 

Cutting undeserved official allowances and estacodes, unnecessary long laundry lists of aides and stopping duplicity, inflating figures and collecting kickbacks when issuing contracts could help save now the slim chance of the survival of the nation. 

The earlier the nation’s leadership makes the above noble decision, the better for our collective future. This has the potential to prevent the furtherance of the untold hardships that the majority of Nigerians are going through. These hardships, I am afraid, could make many citizens easy prey to international criminal syndicates, especially young and inexperienced minds, with mere food and money handouts. Nigerian leaders, individually and collectively, need to act swiftly to avert the arrival of our doomsday. 

May God save Nigeria from Nigerians.

Yusuf Yusuf can be contacted via yusufyusufgamji@gmail.com.

By Imam-Malik Abdullahi Kaga (ACIHRM, CPM, PGD-HRM)

Today, Monday, May 20, 2024, marks International Human Resource Day, a celebration of the vital role HR professionals play in shaping the future of work. As a Certified Personnel Manager, I write to celebrate this special day in line with the theme: Shaping the New Future.

International HR Day was founded by the European Association for People Management (EAPM) and was first observed in 2019. Its aim is to recognise the momentous contributions of HR professionals globally. Prior to this day, the then-Jamaican Governor-General, Sir Patrick Allen, proposed the celebration in 2013 but was not successful in bringing the day to life. In 2018, the Jamaican government declared the day.

Since then, it has become an avenue for HR practitioners to come together, share best practices, and discuss the latest trends and challenges by organising webinars, workshops, et al in the industry.

This year’s HR Day is tagged with the theme: Shaping the New Future, and sub-themes of Championing Ethical Tech and AI Integration, Excellence in People Management, Continuous Investment in Skills and Education, Redefining the Future Workplace.

Championing Ethical Tech and AI Integration

The integration of technology and AI has revolutionised the way our department works. However, it also raises important ethical considerations. Despite the increasing reliance on technology and AIs, it’s very important that HR professionals champion ethical practices to ensure these technologies are used responsibly and for the betterment of organisations, companies, and society at large.

This includes implementing AI systems that are transparent, unbiased, and protect employee data privacy.

Excellence in People Management

MSF has this adage: “MSF is People.” HR professionals play a crucial role in attracting, retaining, and developing top talent. At the heart of any successful organisation is its people. This requires a deep understanding of the changing needs and expectations of employees.

By nurturing a culture of excellence in people management, HR can improve employee engagement and create a positive work environment. This involves adopting a holistic approach to talent management, spotting the diverse needs of global labourers, and providing opportunities for growth and development.

Continuous Investment in Skills and Education

The stride of technological change demands that employees continually update their skills to remain relevant. HR invest in education and training programs that arm workers with the skills needed to succeed in their roles. 

This includes providing access to online learning platforms, workshops, and mentorship opportunities. For example, organisations like the MSF have a department called learning and development, where the staff’s KSA are developed. MSF also has a platform called Tembo for its staff to learn and develop. By prioritising continuous learning, HR can future-proof the workforce, initiate innovation, and stay ahead of the competitive world.

As we celebrate International HR Day, we urge all departments in every organisation, whether humanitarian, government, or profit-based, to adapt the culture of continuous learning for professional growth and excellent work outcomes.

Happy International HR Day to the “retention strategists”

Imam-Malik Abdullahi Kaga is a member of the Chartered Institute of Human Resources Management and a Certified Personnel Manager. He writes from Maiduguri and can be reached via imammalikabdullahikaga@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam Imam

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has made a significant breakthrough in the fight against corruption, returning 14 properties to the Enugu State government and 324 houses to Kano State pensioners.

The properties, valued at millions of naira, were recovered through diligent investigation and prosecution.

The Enugu State properties were formally handed over to the state government at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja, while the 324 houses were returned to Kano State pensioners who had been defrauded of their benefits.

EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, commended the Enugu State government and Kano State pensioners for their cooperation throughout the investigation and recovery process.

He assured that the EFCC would continue to work tirelessly to recover stolen assets and bring corrupt individuals to justice.

Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, expressed gratitude to the EFCC for its efforts in recovering the stolen assets and praised President Bola Tinubu for his prompt action in ceding the assets to the people and government of Enugu State.

This milestone marks a significant achievement in the fight against corruption and asset recovery, demonstrating the EFCC’s commitment to ensuring that corrupt individuals are held accountable and that stolen assets are returned to their rightful owners.