By: Martins O. Itua

Preparatory to the elections in 2015, I had been quite vocal about the choices before Nigerians with respect to the candidacy of then President Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari. I had taken time to explain to Nigerians that even though President Jonathan hadn’t performed up to standard, that he was a better candidate than Buhari. Again, in 2019, I warned Nigerians that another four years of Buhari would spell doom for the country. To support my point, I went as far as writing a book titled “Buharinomics: How President Buhari set Nigeria in reverse motion”. If you want to read the book, you will find it on Amazon. I have been proved right as 133m Nigerians have been thrown into abject poverty, according to a recent report by the National Bureau of Statistics. Today, I shall attempt to explain that politics is about personal interests and these interests always trump the national interest.

It is often easy for people to forget that politics is about interest. These interests are mostly personal interests and have nothing to do with the national interest. What makes this difficult to comprehend or accept is the fact that everyone claims that their interest is for the greater good of Nigeria. As a general rule, there are always winners and losers in every election. What makes elections unique is the fact that they are a zero sum game in the sense that there can be only one winner. Elections are sometimes compared to a battle where the winner takes it all. It is for this reason, particularly in Nigeria, that people go to great extent and do anything in order to win elections.

It is important to always bear it in mind that when you see people who are at the forefront of politicians, they are either benefiting something or looking forward to some reward. It is for this same reason that you always see an army of supporters who flock around every candidate. While majority of ordinary people genuinely support particular candidates and believe that they have the best plans for the people, there are several other people who only support particular candidates because for them, it is a job. This essentially means that while you may be busy making enemies through uncontrolled emotions and anger in showing support for a particular candidate, there are other people who are making a kill and smiling to the bank.

Broadly speaking, there are other interests that must be considered, especially in Nigeria. This is because our politics is still largely played at the local level. From the earliest times that we started voting, the primordial sentiments of religion and ethnicity have played critical roles in who becomes the leader of Nigeria or even at State levels. People look at candidates, not on the basis of what they have to offer, but purely on the basis of their faith and where they come from. So typically, a candidate from the North of Nigeria is expected to get more votes from people who are from the North. The same principle applies for all the other major tribes in Nigeria. Somehow, these people believe that they must vote for one of their own. In the same vein, people appear to be more comfortable with people who belong to the same religion. However, they often forget that there is absolutely no evidence on the ground that supports this barbaric practice. For instance, Niger State produced two of Nigeria’s former Heads of State, Katsina State produced two Presidents, Bayelsa State produced one President, Ogun State produced Olusegun Obasanjo, etc.

All these states, without exception, suffer extreme poverty, deprivation and lack of social services and infrastructure just like all the other States in Nigeria.
In all this, what many people don’t realize is that we cannot hope to build a nation as long as our decisions on who we vote for to lead us are influenced by the primordial sentiments of religion and ethnicity. We can never make real progress as a people as long as we are unable to put the national interest and greater good above our parochial self-interest. The predominance of self-interest is the main reason why Nigeria hasn’t developed compared to her potential. Everyone has been wired to think ONLY of himself or herself and many times, don’t ever think of the good of Nigeria. Many people aspire for office and many times, they are not concerned about the growth and development of your country but for purely personal reasons and enrichment. It is for this reason that the richest people in Nigeria are politicians. And the reason is simple: they all feed fat on the commonwealth of Nigeria. It is also for this reason that there is so much wealth without enterprise in Nigeria.

The most critical question that the electorates in Nigeria must ask themselves is: WHO AMONGST THE CANDIDATES CAN BE TRUSTED. All the candidates are basically saying the same thing, howbeit, using different modes of expression. They are all promising better life for Nigerians. They all want to eradicate poverty, provide jobs, fight the rampaging inflation, combat the monstrous corruption, secure Nigeria and Nigerians, diversify the economy from over dependence on oil, etc. So the issue is not necessarily about what they are saying and the promises they are making but who will you trust to deliver on their promises. Which amongst the candidates will Nigerians be able to hold accountable to his promises? Which of them will be accessible to Nigerians? Which of the candidates is more likely to turn Nigeria’s resources into personal assets and that of his friends? We must try and answer these questions honestly.

There are people who will make a lot of noise on social media and never vote. You should remember that not voting is actually voting for the wrong candidate. You have a constitutional responsibility to choose your leaders and you should never renege on this solemn duty. Just to be clear, you will be eight years older by the time the next government leaves office. You’re nearly eight years older than you were in 2015. So make no mistake, the election in February 2023 will determine the future of Nigeria and it is important that you play an active role in determining who leads Nigeria for the next eight years.

‘I have searched through the list of those who condemned Abacha’s tyrannical rule, Peter Obi’s name is missing, I have searched the list of the G-34 members who stood against the military in 1998, Peter Obi’s name is missing, I have searched the list of NADECO members who fought the military to stand still between 1993 and 1999, Peter Obi’s name is missing, I have searched through the list of financers of pro-democracy struggle in Nigeria where the likes of late billionaire Pa Alfred Rewane is standing gallantly tall, Peter Obi’s name is missing. What investment has Obi made into the Nigerian democratic project since 1993 and today apart from laying claim to been an ex Governor? The question is where was Peter Obi when men and women were fighting to restore democracy in Nigeria?

A frontline youth leader, Ambassador Akoshile Mukhtar has bagged a lifetime achievement award from the Aluta News organization, at its annual award and dinner program, scheduled to hold on 2nd December 2022 in Abuja.

The awardee has been at the forefront of the struggle for youth empowerment and capacity development, since the days he served as a leader of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) before transiting his advocacy into core civil society and the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), where he now serves as the Vice President for the North Central Zone.

In a press release by the Office of the Vice President. North Central Zone of NYCN, the awardee expressed “appreciation to the organizers of the award ceremony for the recognition”, while assuring his “primary constituency of Nigerian youth and students of uninterrupted and unwavering service towards improving their lot by delivering a better society that carries everyone along”.

Aluta News was created to give voice to Nigerians, especially the youth, la, labor, and civil society spaces, where young people’s voices are usually not heard.

The Aluta awards are given to Nigerians doing well in different walks of life who have contributed to the deepening of civic spaces in Nigeria, with this year’s theme: recognizing pillars and living heroes of democracy in Nigeria.

The Other prominent Nigerians scheduled to be in attendance include the Minister of State of the FCT Hajiyya Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu and many others.

Demonstrations to demand for the removal of Mohammed Bello-Koko, as the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority are underway, as some Coalition of Civil Society Organizations, are insisting, on the implementation of the reports of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Which found Mr Koko guilty of being involved in N829 million fraud through kickbacks, money laundering and other corruption, currently happening in the NPA, under his leadership.



In a notice, seen by our reporter on Monday, the group says, the meeting of the Coalition of Civil Society Groups Against Corruption in Nigeria, is preparatory, to the mass mobilization to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to demand for the arrest of the NPA Chief Executive, and subsequently demand for his removal.

The group has recently, accused the Chairman of the EFCC, Mr AbdulRasheed Bawa, of being selective, in the commission's approach to the fight against corruption, in the country, when it alleged, that the anti-graft agency, has been shielding the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Mr Bashir Jamoh from prosecution, in a similar issue of corruption.

By Rotimi Olawepo

Harry S. Truman, the 33rd president of the United States, who served between 1945 to 1953, had a sign "The Buck Stop Here" on his desk at the White House. What this signified was that, a leader worth his salt does not shy away from taking stern and tough decisions that's in the overall national interest.

The United States styled Presidential democracy that Nigera adopted and practicing, the power centre lies with the president. In other words, the power to hire and fire....
And very much so, President Muhammadu Buhari demonstrated this with the removal of the renegade director general of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig Gen MK Fadda from office for gross incompetence and indiscipline.

Issues must be placed in proper perspectives. President Buhari is not superhuman to know how an appointee is going to behave in office, however, he takes the blame, if an appointee demonstrates lacks of capacity to deliver and he fails to fire.

With Fadda's removal, Buhari has validated Harry S Truman's assertion that the ultimate power stops with the president. He has proven, at once, what's possible, where a leader is focused on results and hence, takes no nonsense.

Buhari has for the umpteenth time demonstrated how adorable NYSC is as a national treasure. Haven being created on 22 May 1973, enabled by Decree No.51 of 16th June 1993 as an avenue for the reconciliation, reconstruction, and rehabilitation of the nation after the civil war.

So dear is NYSC to Buhari that he increased their allowance to par with the national minimum wage. Almost a 100 percent increment from 18,900 to 33,000 in 2020. After all, NYSC's has served to unite Nigeria more than any other idea before or after it.

We continue to savour our colourfully dressed Youth Corps members traverse the length and breathe of Nigera. As they learn other cultures and civilisations. Too many cross-cultural marriages have been consummated, made possible by the scheme.

The gains of the NYSC Ventures and the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) Programme can not be quantified. The scheme has continued to deepen the impact on rural development through the Community Development Service.

Corps members have continued to make a great impact in the area of healthcare delivery, rural infrastructure and other social services.

The NYSC has since inception, recorded numerous landmark achievements in the area of national unity and integration. It has also made a great impact in other spheres such as healthcare delivery, rural infrastructure, mass literacy education, sports, among others.

In 2014, the management of the scheme launched the NYSC Health Initiative for Rural Development (HIRD) to deepen the impact of healthcare services in the country.

The HIRD was a platform for contributions toward promoting the wellbeing of indigent persons at the grassroots by granting them easier access to free and quality healthcare.

The programme was largely implemented through medical outreaches in communities across the country. Corps Medical Volunteers carried out diagnosis treatment, including minor medical procedures and referrals of patients. In addition, drugs, eyeglasses and other medical consumables are also given to patients free of charge

So, no nation will ignore the above gains to ever go for anything less. There’s nothing wrong Fadda's appointment in the first instance. Mr. President didn’t know much about him. He is just one guy who cheated his way to the top. His removal is gone to prove that crime has no place in the land no matter how highly placed.

Brig Gen MK Fadah had formally assumed office as the 19th NYSC DG on Wednesday, May 18, this year after his appointment as replacement for his predecessor, Major Ibrahim Shuaibu.

Nigerians have continued to thump up for the president's decision to sack him, saying it is the best thing to happen to NYSC. Even NYSC insiders have lamented the fact that his headship of the scheme holds the worst recorded ever.

Fadda was said to have reduced the scheme to mockery, while staff helplessly watched it to continue go down on free fall. It was a confirmation that the position is apparently bigger than him. He is not just competent enough to head the scheme. Under that circumstance, no leader, not to talk of Buhari will fold his hands.

The arms chair critics, taking the president to the cleaners because of Fadda's appointment should give us a break. After all, he who hired still fired because he saw the man is not feat do job.

Olawepo wrote this piece from Kwara State.

The Coalition of Northern Human Rights Group (CNHRG) has applauded the prompt responses of the North-East Development Commission (NEDC) and its managing director, Mohammed Alkali to the rampaging flooding in the region.

The group made this known in its assessment report on the impact of the natural disaster in the north and efforts of intervention agencies.

According to the report signed by secretary-general, Ibrahim Ahmed, the rights group said NEDC donated relief materials to flood victims to cushion the effect on the affected communities.

CNHRG also commended the National Emergency Management Agency for equally rising up to the occasion.

"The NEDC was proactive in its response to the impact of flooding in affected communities in North East. In such a situation, intervention is expected from the government through the various intervention agencies. This was the case in the flood-ravaged states of Northern Nigeria. To cushion the flood's effect on the affected communities, the North East Development Commission (NEDC) took measures by donating relief materials to flood victims in Adamawa States," the report said.

"NEDC also extended this gesture to other affected northern states. It is imperative to note, however, that other intervention agencies, such as NEMA, were also up and doing in donating relief materials to flood-ravaged states in Northern Nigeria to cushion the effect of the flood disaster.

"It must be stated that these interventions by the NEDC proved vital in easing the pains of the victims of the flood disaster. Appreciative of the intervention efforts, it is essential to note that despite these efforts, the people can never be said to have gotten enough as there is still a need to do more.

"Properties worth millions of naira have been lost, farmlands have been eroded, food crops have been damaged, more IDPs have been created, and the environment, at large, has been affected. In some areas, roads have been washed off.

"The NEDC, among others, are highly commended for their intervention efforts. However, because the flood disaster did enough harm to the people and their environment, there is a need, therefore, for more intervention efforts to support the NEDC in ensuring that life returns to normal in affected communities.

*More so, aware of the cause of the flood, there is a need to construct dams that will help absorb water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon when released. This should be treated as a necessity and responsibility as it will help limit the level and effect of subsequent flood disasters in Nigeria."

The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights (CALSER) has described the call by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) for the probe of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development as mischievous, misplaced and attention seeking.

The centre, therefore, urged President Buhari to disregard SERAP's letter.

According to a statement signed by its Executive Director, Dr (Mr) Cecilia Ikechukwu, CALSER said the ministry should rather be commended for its transparency and intervention programs that has benefitted millions of Nigerians.

"The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights (CALSER) is alarmed at the simplistic assessment of Nigeria’s poverty burden by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), which resulted in its call for the probe of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development (FMHADMSD). We urge President Muhammadu Buhari to completely disregard SERAP’s letter as mischief targeted at making the president distrust one of his best-performing Ministers," the statement said.

"CALSER views these calls for the probe of the social intervention programs under the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development as misplaced and attention seeking considering the high level of transparency in the activity of the Ministry and the impact of these programs on Nigerians. The Ministry has proven to be one that directly impacts Nigerians through programmes that have improved the quality of life of indigent citizens.

"Instead of ordering a probe into the handling of social intervention programmes as SERAP is demanding, the Honourable Minister, Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Sadiya Umar Farouq should rather be commended for the giant strides the ministry recorded under her watch, particularly the numerous interventions of the various agencies under the ministry.

"It is apparent that SERAP assessed FMHADMSD as if it is the Ministry of Poverty Reduction/Eradication such that it failed to reckon that part of the ministry’s funding also went into disaster management and the provision of succour to distressed and internally displaced persons (IDPs). An honest assessment of the Ministry’s activity would throw up beneficiaries of the programmes that are willing to testify as to how their lives were turned around for the better because of what the Ministry did for them.

"The group also failed to factor in the severity of poverty prior to the execution of these social safety net programmes. Had SERAP referenced a baseline study that showed that these programmes are not meeting expectations instead of cherry-picking the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) report then it would be in a potion to pontificate in its letter to President Muhammadu Buhari.

"SERAP’s threat to take legal action if its demand for the probe of the Ministry is not met within seven days is no surprise as the group often recites this tired line like a broken record. It is a ploy that it has consistently deployed to destabilize and distract any government Ministry, Department or Agency that it is targeting. Such distraction from SERAP has proven more damaging than whatever ill it claims to be fighting. Interestingly, SERAP has never gotten anything meaningful from its proliferated litigation against government interests and public officials.

"Rather than attempting to harass FMHADMSD and its minister, SERAP should come up with ingenious solutions for amplifying the impact of the good work that the ministry is already doing. For instance, CALSER would like to see religious bodies and non-profits commit higher percentages of their disposable resources to support the government’s poverty alleviation initiatives as is the case in some other jurisdictions".

The Centre, however, urged Hajiya Sadiya Umar Farouq and FMHADMSD "not to be perturbed by SERAP’s theatrics in calling for a probe as this is a well-known modus operandi of the organization, which threatens government agencies and ministries on a weekly basis with cogent reasons."

It also urged President Buhari to "urgently consider a special class of award for the Ministry and its management in recognition of the good work they have done in contributing towards the goal of his administration to lift 100 million Nigerians out of poverty over the course of ten years."

By Taiwo Akerele

In the last few years the Buhari administration has come handy to save the states from fiscal collapse using different tools such as direct intervention through grants, direct ways and means from the Central bank of Nigeria (CBN), COVID-19 loans, SIFTAS loans, agriculture support loans otherwise referred to as Anchor Borrower program, BOI loans, food supply from the national stock and other enormous palliatives. All these where done without consideration for political party affiliation, however what is amusing is that most of the governors, particularly from the opposition states, never disclosed to their people how the APC/Buhari government has been of tremendous help to their states. Indeed, history beckons and the records shall speak for itself.

It has been quite harrowing in the last few months attempting to reconcile how Nigeria federalism seemed to have collapsed irretrievably. This is stemming from the fact that most Nigerians believe, even though erroneously that Mr President or the Federal government is the cancer that has impeded development across all sectors and institutions in Nigeria. This unfortunate narrative has been further accentuated by the virulent utterances and statements by some opposition governors and political parties ahead of the 2023 elections. Nigeria’s federalism is patterned along that of the United States where the states and counties/LGAs have enormous responsibilities assigned to them.
Clearly and from the benefit of hindsight, the constitution of the federal republic spelt out in no mean words the different arms and tiers of government and their functions. In my little research I am confident to say that the Federal government is fully vested with responsibilities around maintenance of foreign affairs, defense of the territorial integrity of the country, issues around tertiary health care, tertiary education of course with concurrent powers on secondary education as well. I have watched with amazement how state governors especially in the opposition have continuously heaped the blame of under development on the Federal government especially in the health and education sectors and in recent times the spiraling debt crisis in the country.
I stand to be corrected; however, available data indicates that 70% of the health care needs of Nigerians falls between the purview of primary health care (LGA) and secondary health care (state) while the outstanding 30% is what is referred to the tertiary centers such as teaching, and specialist hospitals mostly funded by the federal government of Nigeria.
The educational architecture in Nigeria is also designed along the health care system wherein 80% of the functionalities of the primary and secondary sectors lies with the local and states government across Nigeria. Its quite alarming to note that while the 36 states of the federation and their local governments (774 of them) have continually failed in the last 2 decades to invest in all the components that constitutes primary health care and secondary health care which easily take care of issues around infant mortality, maternal mortality, 3rd tier diseases (primary) such as malaria, dysentery, thypoid, immunization etc.
The pressure emanating from this collapse is automatically passed on to the existing tertiary health care institutions, this has led to the inevitably to their weak output simply because their focused have now been shifted to taking care of the health care needs of the wrong patients as a result of the failure of the states and LGAs.
On the issue of infrastructure such as roads networks, data from the federal ministry of works suggests that trunk A roads which are maintained by the federal government account for less than 40% of the entire road network across the country, while the remaining belongs to the states and local government, however, the collapse of inter and intra state roads which ordinarily should carry no less than 60% of the load pressure in the country have been invariably transferred to the federal roads (Trunk A roads) leading to wear and tier and eventual collapse.
On the issue of national debt overhang, a governor in one of the south south states was recently quoted to have said that nigeria’s debt is inching close to 60 Trillion Naira (about $134bn), and concluded that Nigeria has failed already. It is not my responsibility as a policy analyst to confirm or contradict the governors’ claims as the debt management office and the CBN have such responsibility vested in them, however, I had thought that the same governor will go ahead to state in equivocal terms his own state share of the debt overhang and what it has achieved with it for the purpose they were approved for, this was not to be as he again played the ostrich.
The statistics from debt management office (DMO) shows very clearly that only 35% of the total federation debts belongs to the federal government, about 35% is owned by the 36 states while the outstanding debt of 30% is jointly owned especially loans that have to do with immunization and COVID-19 recovery and budget support instruments. If this is the case, on what grounds should a state governor (an opposition at that) squarely place the debt crisis on the foot of the federal government for growing the Nigerian?
As a seasoned Project Manager/Advisor of World bank funded projects of close to 15 years now, I know the enormous pressure states government put on relevant federal institutions such as the national assembly, debt management office, office of the attorney general of the federation, office of the accountant general of the federation and the Federal Executive Council (FEC) to get their several loans requests approved even when sometimes it is obvious that their fiscal outlook does not support such loan request at the time.
In some circumstance some of them resort to sheer blackmail to get their loans approved and the former minister for finance for Nigeria Ngozi Okonjo Iweala stated part of this unfortunate trend in her book ‘Fighting corruption is dangerous: the story behind the headlines” I therefore advise the opposition Governors to disclose to Nigerians there own share of the national debt and also display the results/output for citizens scrutiny.
On governance and transparency in the management of resources, most states in Nigeria especially the opposition-controlled states, local governments system have completely collapsed including the conduct of periodic elections which is a violation of the Nigerian constitutions which stipulates the mode of governance in that tier of governance. Some five years ago, the supreme court outlawed the existence of the Joint Allocation Account (JAAC), but as we speak many states still maintain such accounts in a manner that is short of transparency, if this is the case, how do we expect the quality of lives of the poor rural dwellers to improve? How has this got to do with the Federal government under the leadership of the President and his party?
Nigeria can work If the governors start sitting down in their various states to truly work for the people, this country can work If the states governments design a system that ensures effectiveness in service delivery at the local government level, this country will leap significantly if the primary/basic education system is well funded, when more resources is allocated to teacher training by the state governments and increased functionality of the primary health care system across the states.
Things can work if the states starts investing in internal roads within their states and things will definitely work if the governors can stop the borrowing spree and concentrate on internal resource mobilization. All this will have significant impact on the output of states-based institutions across the country.
In the last few years, the Buhari administration has come handy to save the states from fiscal collapse using different tools such as direct intervention through grants, direct ways and means from the Central bank of Nigeria (CBN), COVID-19 loans, SIFTAS loans, agriculture support loans otherwise referred to as Anchor Borrower program, BOI loans, food supply from the national stock and other enormous palliatives. All these where done without consideration for political party affiliation, however what is amusing is that most of the governors, particularly from the opposition states, never disclosed to their people how the APC/Buhari government has been of tremendous help to their states.
Suffice to state here that, while the APC/Buhari government has not solved all of Nigeria’s problems (far from it) it has achieved some significant milestones chief of which is respect for rule of law, constitutionalism, states independence, legislative independence, electoral reforms, taxation reforms amidst all of the challenges (externally and internally induced), however, the governors in the opposition political parties who ought to sit at home and work for results, rather play up the security challenges we face as a country without letting the people know how much they pocket monthly (without accountability) in the name of security votes. Is it not contradictory to say that this is a case of someone getting paid for service not rendered? Indeed, history beckons, and the records shall speak for itself. Enough of the ostrich game in Nigeria.

Thank you

Taiwo Akerele
Former Chief of staff Edo state and Executive Director, Policy House. Wrote from Abuja, Nigeria

By Moses Adamu


Excellence can simply be defined as the quality of being outstanding or extremely good. It is not just about doing the right thing; it is about doing it exceptionally well. The truth is, the more people there are in any society who put uncommon efforts into the common everyday tasks, the more progress it makes.
Undisputedly, this best described the North East Development Commission (NEDC).

Following the inauguration of North East Development Commission (NEDC) by President Muhammadu Buhari in 2017 to coordinate all Humanitarian interventions by government Ministries, Departments and Agencies based on The Northeast stabilization and restrategizing masterplan, a lot can be said about its magnanimous achievements in the elimination and mitigation of various effects caused by terrorism in the Northeast, which has so far resulted to rapid economical growth in the affected areas.

The North East Development Commission, as we all know, is an interventionist agency. However, the existential-effect of the NEDC has proven to be different, and also further distinguished from other interventionist agencies in the country. There has been a consistent drive towards achieving its core mandate in rebuilding North East Nigeria that had suffered phenomenal destruction since 2009 when the Boko Haram group began its violent campaign against Nigeria, Thus, empowered by the FGN and other international intervention agencies, the Alhaji Mohammed Goni Alkali-led NEDC management embarked on this assignment with every seriousness and vigour , under the broad program of Rapid Response Intervention (RRI) by giving it all that is needed to be done in order to bring about normalcy in the region.

Overtime, the NEDC has influenced the peace process in the long term, via development projects. The federal government in all its wisdom seeing the many crisis faced by the North Eastern part of the country commissioned the NEDC to relieve the region of its troubles. It was a development that at the time received a lot of criticism from malcontent individuals and members of the opposition party.

However, in the wake of recent government efforts, among various initiatives that were established in actualization of the plan which is based on strengthening criminal justice responses to Terrorism in the Northeast, one unique agency of the federal government that distinguished Itself outstandingly in public leadership was The North East Development Commission (NEDC) by making lots of iconic footprints in public space.

If we could walk down memory lane, before the intervention of NEDC, we should still remember that the north Eastern region of the country attracted a lot of attention from all over the world owing to the plagues of terrorism it faced in recent years. Banditry and killings were the order of the day in that region. The calamitous effect of these many crises in the region was widespread, and people living in the region were faced with constant unrest. Families that were displaced from their homes were forced to seek refuge in other less troubled regions or in IDP camps. Children couldn’t attend schools, as these schools were no longer safe and farmers never felt safe to go out and farm, leading to the rise in the cost of many edibles that use to be transported from the northern east to other states. All these greatly affected the nation at large.

It can be obviously stated that the crisis in North-East Nigeria that came with its attendant loss of lives, destruction of properties and displacement of thousands of people has been greatly managed and subdued, leaving its after effects less visible. This is as a result of the magnanimous reconstruction, and progressive decision implementation made by the North East Development Commission (NEDC) in the coordinating, harmonizing, and overseeing the success of many intervention and initiative programmes for the Northeastern States.
The NEDC have been able to successfully step in by bringing relief and intervention to these challenges. It has been able to successfully achieve the mandate handed over to it under the leadership of its Chairman, Mohammed Alkali. Establishing the agency was a much needed development and it was clear that such a vital agency had to be headed by a sagacious individual who was more than capable of handling the agency and achieving all its goals.


In a positive note, these great achievements of the NEDC is a manifestation of great intellectual results exhibited by good Leaders through strategic plannings, and implementation of programmes with a direct impact on the people.
For the record so far, the NEDC has executed not less than 224 developmental Projects in 112 Local government areas across the Six North-East states under the Rapid Response Intervention (RRI), as part of the comprehensive Master plan to holistically rebuild the region based on the recommendations and demands of the states in the areas of education, health, social Infrastructure, agriculture and WASH.

Furthermore, according to the managing director of the NEDC, the projects were part of the early recovery actions plans by the Commission to return simple Infrastructure which included, public and Institutional structure, boreholes and culvert that were ravaged by the insurgency to function again. It is also instructive to state that before this year, the NEDC has earmarked N6 billion to replenish the 10 percent annual grants on scholarship for students in the region. Under this arrangement, the beneficiaries include; 5 000 bachelor’s degree, 336 Masters and 54 Doctorate Degree candidates. The funds would also be used for skills and acquisition training and provision of starter packs to 5 000 Information Communication Technology (ICT) skills, 5000 women and youths on entrepreneurship, and 2000 other vocational skills in each of the 1,028 wards in the Northeast.
One of the recent successful implementations was the launching of North-East Development Commission (NEDC) Education Endowment Fund (EEF) NEDC-EEF.

This is indeed brilliant and an indication that the infrastructural and economic development of North-East Nigeria is well on course.
It’s worthy of note that the operations of the NEDC fully commenced in 2019. So far, the NEDC has demonstrated Itself as an agency which has overpowered the Nigeria’s regressive cancer and exculpated itself from the cultured setbacks of non-performing federal agencies.

Concerning the recent update on the IDP’s care and responsibilities, One won’t doubt the intellect behind the handing over of the IDP wellness to be overseen by the NEDC. Putting the best hand in such position is a game changer that would see to effective transparency , collaboration, and successful actualization of the humanitarian mandate in bringing relief to the massive flood victims, because without putting NEDC in charge of such a sensitive position and situation, peace would definitely be a short-lived phenomenal in IDP Camp. This responsibility is not an alien situation to be handled by them, because it as been part of their mandate in bringing relief to victims of insurgency; by helping in resettlement, provision of basic needs and welfare, as well as their feeding.


The NEDC will continue to strive for a continual improvement in their operations, which is necessary, given the enormity of the task at hand.
No doubt that the NEDC is making life very meaningful to victims in Northeast through its interventions. The region is now wearing a better look cutting across the provision of social amenities, and exemplifying core transparency in achieving their mandate towards this great nation, Nigeria.

Adamu is a public affairs commentator wrote this piece from Yola.

The Centre for Social Justice, Equity And Transparency (CESJET) has welcomed the removal of Brig Gen MK Fadah as the Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), describing him as unfit for the position.

The Centre, at a press conference today, in Abuja, commended President Muhammadu Buhari for acting promptly to save the Scheme from further embarrassment.

In his address, CESJET's executive director, Comrade Isaac Ikpa, said Fadah demonstrated a lack of vision and purpose for the NYSC and was rightfully shown the exit.

"As an organization dedicated to good governance in Nigeria, we welcome the decision of President Muhammadu Buhari to relieve the NYSC DG of his position, which is long overdue. Brig Gen MK Fadah has been a misfit from the first day he assumed office. He displayed a lack of vision and purpose for achieving the mandate of the critical NYSC," Ikpa said.

"It is on record that the past six months have been the most unproductive era in the annals of the NYSC as the erstwhile DG turned the NYSC into a fiefdom where his cronies took over the operations of the scheme to the detriment of directors and head of departments.

"It was an era of nepotism and backwardness on the reforms introduced in the scheme by previous leadership. It, therefore, was no surprise that the erstwhile DG engaged in acts that were unbecoming of a senior officer of the Nigerian Army.

"The era of Brig Gen MK Fadah at the NYSC was laced with forgery and incapacity to deliver results when it matters most. Instead, he went on a spending spree, diverting funds meant for corpers welfare and other sundry matters.

"We would like to inform the general public that Brig Gen. MK Fadah forged his academic qualifications and falsified his age, which an investigation by the NYSC Board revealed.
Therefore, it is a shame that such an anomaly would happen in an organization central to youth development in the country. Therefore, the decision of President Muhammadu Buhari to relieve him of his appointment is a step in the right direction in halting the decline in the NYSC.

"The Centre for Social Justice, Equity and Transparency hold the firm conviction that Brig. Gen. MK Fadah should be court marshalled for forgery and falsification of age that aided his appointment as NYSC DG.
There should be no sacred cows, and as such, we are calling on the Mr President and other relevant government agencies to act in the country's best interest if we are indeed desirous of building the country of our dreams.
Brig Gen MK Fadah was despicable in his conduct, which negatively affected the operations of the NYSC. The morale of staff and corp members were at its lowest ebb in the last six months. Consequently, we must agree that Mr President acted in the country's best interest. We salute the courage of President Muhammadu Buhari in this regard, which is a demonstration of a leader who listens and is conversant with the happenings in the country".

The Centre, therefore, called on the Chief of Army Staff to "do all necessary to reprimand Brig. Gen. MK Fadah for bringing the revered Nigerian Army into disrepute before the general public."

By Kolawole Anthony

On Thursday, November 17th, the reported dismissal of Brigadier-General Muhammad Kukah Fadah as the Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps floated the air. After six months of mediocrity, stagnancy, and incompetence, this could ultimately be the watershed moment for the Scheme.

Established in 1973 by the Federal Military Government of Gen Yakubu Gowon, the NYSC has evolved into a beacon of national unity and integration, designed to drive the process of carving a nation out of the multiplicity of ethnic nationalities making up the entity, Nigeria.

Over the past 49 years, the Scheme has pursued vigorously the lofty objectives of the founding fathers. The NYSC has grown exponentially, mobilizing over 350,000 Nigerian youths for service every year. It refocuses their mindsets, making them more patriotic, and amenable to be mobilized for national causes such as elections, census, polio eradication, and HIV/AIDS campaigns, among others.

Through the Scheme's Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development program, thousands of young Nigerians are trained to set up businesses, employing others and contributing immensely to the country's economic development.

Over the years, some great minds have led the NYSC. Col (Dr.) Ahmadu Ali, a brilliant medical doctor laid the foundation of the Scheme upon which his successors have continued to build. Col Ali, Col Edet Akpan, Col SA Sofoluwe, Brig Gen Samson Dule, Brig Gen Yusuf Bomoi, Brig Gen Maharazu Tsiga, Brig Gen NT Okore-Affia, Brig Gen Olawumi, and Major Gen Shuaibu Ibrahim all made varying degrees of outstanding contributions to the progress of the Scheme as Chief Executives, for which posterity will remember them.

However, nearly half a century of progress was hampered by Fadah. Appointed in May, the Brigadier General negates the philosophy of the Scheme with a controversial antecedent, lacking the requisite qualification and persona. It was similar to picking a neophyte for a top management job.

Fadah is a representation of all that is wrong with Nigeria. It is very surprising how the character rose to the rank of General in the Nigerian Army that has produced the likes of Gen Muhammadu Buhari, Gen Joe Garba, Gen Dambazzau, Gen Domkat Bali, Gen Tunde Idiagbon, Gen TY Danjuma mention just a few.

Even more shocking is the aberration that a man who evaded national service was rewarded as NYSC Chief Executive. One wonders how he got commissioned into the Army without the presentation of the Certificate of Service; without passing through the Scheme when he was officially within the age of service at the time he purportedly graduated.

Fadah who reflects a poor image of the Army, particularly the Education Corps took over the headship of the institution without any iota of agenda. Disappointingly, it was learned that days after he assumed office, some members of staff were able to articulate a 5 -- point agenda for him, but he couldn't elucidate it to staff and members of the public.

It is a shame that a man who can hardly string a sentence in English, a man who cannot reason properly, let alone critical reasoning was dumped to preside over the fate of millions of youths upon whose shoulders the destiny of Nigeria lies.

His main interest was to patronize marabouts whom he has in abundance virtually in every State of the Federation, whom he regularly doles out cash running in millions of Naira. This same character always sat on the floor in his office with dirty-looking marabouts eating food with his bare hands as NYSC staff members and visitors watch him in abject disappointment and disgust.

Fadah whose office became a harem of sorts for women of easy virtue from 8 pm debased the position of NYSC Director-General. His vulgarity is indescribable. A Corps Member of Zamfara origin once expressed shock at Fadah who had asked him to validate what he, Fadah heard about women of his tribe whom he said are highly promiscuous. That was a discussion that a Director-General who should be on a moral high ground had with a Corps Member whom he is supposed to be a moral compass.

He regularly brought contractors into his office, one after the other to personally negotiate his pecuniary interest on contracts already or about being executed is his past time; while staff welfare, particularly their statutory entitlements was negated.

For instance, it was learned that he once approved that some staff embarks on official assignments to as far as Bayelsa, Lagos, and Rivers, among others with a duty tour allowance of fifteen thousand Naira -- covering the cost of transportation to and fro Abuja, feeding, as well as accommodation. On the other, he spent millions of Naira in contravention of the Financial Regulations junketing around the country on journeys that do not add any value to the Scheme.

There were reports that he once had issues with mental health which hitherto remained in the realm of conjecture. However, his mannerisms, for which we sympathize with him give credence to the fact that he must have had that issue.

Otherwise, how can one explain the situations the Director-General will be walking around the office in military uniform, wearing bathroom slippers; going to the NYSC Mosque to sleep in his military uniform, going to NYSC camps in uniform to sleep in the daytime, when Orientation program is not on, sitting down on the dirty floor of NYSC Lift, because of tiredness, according to him!

NYSC Chief Executive should inspire confidence in Staff and Corps Members; be in full grasp of the NYSC Act, among others. Fadah does not even know why he was in NYSC as Chief Executive.

Thankfully, President Muhammadu Buhari has acted to save the nation from more embarrassment. The process of rebuilding the monumental damage that he has inflicted on the Scheme will begin. May we never suffer another Fadah.

Kolowole PhD wrote this piece from Abuja.

By Nkechi Odoma

The impact of flooding in communities in Yobe and Adamawa states in North East Nigeria cannot be over-emphasized. People were displaced, and farmland was submerged in what could be regarded as one of the worst floodings in North East Nigeria.

This is a trying time for communities that have experienced the effect of the Boko Haram insurgency for several years. Now that life is beginning to return to normal, the floods came in torrents, displacing many and with the potential to cause a humanitarian crisis, but for the swift intervention of the North East Development Commission (NEDC).

It is a statement of fact that since the establishment of the NEDC, among other things, to receive and manage funds from allocation of the Federal Account and international donors for the settlement, rehabilitation and reconstruction of roads, houses and business premises of victims of insurgency as well as tackling the menace of poverty, illiteracy level, ecological problems and any other related environmental or developmental challenges in the North-East states. The NEDC has so far lived up to expectations in fulfilling this mandate.

The various intervention of the NEDC in North East Nigeria has been noteworthy. The flooding in Yobe state and other parts of North East Nigeria provides us with that where the NEDC has been relentless in ensuring that life returns to normal in the region. I marvelled at the response rate of the NEDC in this regard.

It is on record that disaster victims were identified with swift and relief materials distributed to mitigate the effect of the flooding in affected communities. This is a plus for an interventionist agency working round the clock to rebuild the region to bring about a return to normalcy after the devastating effect of the Boko Haram insurgency.

Those of us in the know of the efforts of the NEDC would attest to the fact that its various activities have been notable in the North East region. This is where I rate the agency's leadership highly concerning understanding what matters most in affected communities and the urgency with which laudable policies and programmes are implemented.

Another strong point of the NEDC is its seamless collaborations with the various state governments in North East. This is strategic and little wonder the many gains recorded so far. Also, the emphasis on timly and effective interventions, especially in crises, indicates that the agency is alive to its responsibilities.

If the tempo is sustained, humanitarian crisis will be averted promptly. I commend the leadership of the NEDC for this laudable drive, as in the case of Yobe state and other states in North East. And the commendation has not been in short supply from stakeholders, members of affected communities, and development partners.

For example, The Good Governance Watch in Africa recently applauded the North East Development Commission over its reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts in the sub-region. It also commended the 10-year North East Stabilisation and Development Master Plan (NESDMP), adding that it will facilitate transformative growth and further lift citizens in the sub-region out of poverty.

Similarly, The North East Peace Foundation commended the North East Development Commission for its laudable intervention initiatives introduced in the region. According to the group, the Commission’s impact has been visible in the rehabilitation and reconstruction of roads, houses and business premises of victims of insurgency, as well as tackling the menace of poverty, illiteracy, ecological problems and any other related environmental or development challenges. It emphasized that the NEDC has shown the capacity to undertake humanitarian activities with its record of excellent service delivery.

The testimonies for the efforts of the NEDC have been that of an outpouring of appreciation for an agency that, in record time, has impacted positively in North East Nigeria. This again brings to the fore the leadership question and how sound leadership could guarantee sustainable growth and development in the country.

The NEDC example is worthy for other interventionist agencies in the country to emulate. It has entrenched transparency and accountability in its operations by giving a good account of its utilization of funds for developmental projects, which indicates an agency that means business.

The Mohammed Goni Alkali-led management team at the NEDC deserves commendation for hitting the ground running through the development and implementation of policies and programmes that address the socio-economic challenges in North East Nigeria occasioned by the Boko Haram insurgency.

It must be noted that, indeed, other communities outside Yobe state were affected by flooding and the NEDC response in this regard ensured that those affected were adequately taken care of through the prompt provision of search and rescue operations and the delivery of relief materials, and the provision of shelter to those displaced.

This is NEDC at work in North East Nigeria, and the cheering news is that it has continually elicited support from host communities who are ever appreciative of their efforts towards addressing the myriad of challenges in the region.

There is no doubt that the NEDC is one of the best interventionist agencies in the country. It has redefined the concept of addressing challenges occasioned by conflict and disasters. We must admit this was brought about by the provision of sound leadership by Mohammed Goni Alkali and his management team.

The NEDC intervention in the flooding in parts of North East is the tip of the iceberg compared to other areas the agency has been involved in North East Nigeria. I salute this rare feat and wish to encourage the NEDC not to rest on its oars. I also encourage other government agencies to emulate the NEDC example in service delivery.

Odoma is a public affairs analyst based in Abuja.

By Jacob Ezra

The flooding experienced in some parts of the country had devastating effects. People were displaced, sources of livelihood were destroyed, and in some instances, lives were lost. Indeed it was a challenging period in the country as socio-economic activities were also disrupted.

Flooding, like other natural disasters, are sometimes beyond our control; however, what is imperative is the preparedness to mitigate the effect of such disasters in affected communities, and the emphasis has always been on mitigating and minimizing the loss of lives and destruction of properties.

This brings me to the recent operations of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). I have had some reservations about the preparedness of NEMA to address natural disasters in the country. This is on the heels of the not-so-pleasant news that has characterized its operations in times past, where the agency was bedevilled with numerous issues that undermined its operational effectiveness.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) was established via Act 12, as amended by Act 50 of 1999, to manage disasters in Nigeria by formulating policies on all activities relating to disaster management and coordinating the plans and programmes for efficient and effective response to disasters at the national level.

The recent flooding experienced in parts of the country and the response by NEMA are noteworthy. For once, we saw a well-coordinated disaster management regime that indeed buttressed the point that the leadership of NEMA got it right with how it responded to mitigate the disaster.

I recall sometime last year when Ahmed Mustapha Habib was appointed as the agency's director general. There were reservations in some quarters concerning his ability to deliver on the job considering the agency's sensitivity in the country. I also recall that one of the first decisions made was to understand the issues that hindered NEMA from carrying out its mandate effectively.

It is therefore not surprising that in a year; an agency that had been bedevilled with numerous issues is now refocused and strategically positioned to address national emergencies in the country. I gathered that this feat didn't come on a platter of gold, as much effort went into making NEMA what it is today. Of course, the transparency and accountability aspect was very critical and meant that leadership must be by example.

I believe the NEMA DG understood this complexity hence his emphasis in this regard which has paid off handsomely with the era of diversion of relief materials and other essentials for victims of disasters in the country now a thing of the past. The DG was also able to establish that it wasn't business as usual with the agency's funds.

Those in the know of the new regime in NEMA would attest that since the coming of Ahmed Mustapha Habib, the operations of NEMA, which was literally on life support, have bounced to life with structures and mechanisms that address malaise, redundancy and operational ineffectiveness.

NEMA today is a hub of activities that has bolstered confidence in stakeholders and development partners. The handling of the recent flood disaster is an example of what Nigerians should expect moving forward. This is not to say it is Uhuru. However, the indices point in the right direction with regard to our preparedness for mitigating the effects of emergencies brought about by natural and artificial disasters across the country.

What Ahmed Mustapha Habib did differently is the provision of purposeful leadership, which has consequently translated to the many gains recorded in the operations of NEMA. This also reinforces the notion that sound leadership is essential in our quest for sustainable growth and development in the country. Those in leadership positions must rise above sentiments and self-gains in discharging their duties. They must see the bigger picture, which remains in the country's interest and consequently understand that leadership is about service in every sense of it.

The Ahmed Mustapha Habib example at NEMA is a commendable one. He has displayed foresight and a solid commitment to introduce and sustain laudable reforms in emergency and disaster management in the country. This is yielding the needed results as we are all witness to how NEMA coordinated efforts towards mitigating the effect of the flood disaster.

We saw search and rescue efforts at their best. We also saw the effective distribution of relief items to affected communities very transparently, unlike in times past. We also have witnessed renewed support from the international community through the donation of relief items for flood victims across the country.

Ahmed Mustapha Habib no doubt redefined governance through his leadership strides at NEMA. The onus lies on critical stakeholders to support this visionary leader burning with a passion for service to the country.

Ezra, a public affairs commentator wrote this piece from Yenegoa.

By Philip Agbese

While necessity remains the mother of invention, experience has proven to be the soul attribute of successful leadership. The steady disruption of peace in northern Nigeria by widespread insurgency was a clarion call that needed to be answered by the best and most-effective personality who understood the severity of the challenge. This was a call for one who had led war and is used to the frontlines; a person with a clear distinction between peace and war.

Enter General Yahaya Farouk. On May 27 2021, President Muhammadu Buhari, in his usual thoughtful act of redirecting and refocusing this country along the lines of greatness appointed Gen Faruk as Chief of Army staff. The Sokoto-born General had to return from the Northeast where he was hitherto serving as the Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, which is the Boko Haram counterinsurgency operation.

General Yahaya Farouk has always imbibed the right attitude from his early days as a professional soldier. He never gave room for laxity and assumptions, dealing decisively with terrorists. He pursued them to the very end with strength, vigour and technical support until they were ultimately crushed or left with no option but surrender. He was that cruel.

His ruthlessly calculative approaches paid dividends aplenty. Troops never had it better against the terrorists who were neutralised at every instance. This made him stand out among his counterparts. As Theatre Commander, Ops Lafia Dole, he further enhanced his burgeoning reputation.

The COAS flaunts impeccable records with little or no casualties in many confrontations with terrorists. His return to the trenches was therefore not surprising as he continued to make positive efforts towards ensuring that the last terrorist in the northeast is either exterminated or arrested.

Not done yet, Gen Faruk has broken new ground as Army Chief. No surprise. Beyond his record of success, the gallant COAS is a born leader with a charming aura and intimidating fragrance for criminals. He hit the ground running, directing timely focus to troubled areas while adopting the necessary modalities to achieve his intended results. Jackpot!

In less than two years, Faruk Yahaya has attained demigod status, surpassing every benchmark. His unique skills have come to the fore being a war veteran, peacekeeper, and administrator with efficiency in maintaining order and stability in conflict-ridden areas. This General respects the boundaries of religion too, careful to avoid discrepancies in his judgements and decision-making.

But beneath the tough, no-nonsense soldier lies a compassionate and adoring man. Humane and passionate about the plight of the less privileged, Faruk is kind to a fault, humble and amiable. He is loved by all owing to his willingness to support soldiers and citizens without showing any tolerance for nepotism.

On the field, he works earnestly to implant his cheerful disposition in the Army. First, as a human being and then as a soldier, whose shadows should reflect in every army personnel, so long as he remains the COAS. He is the shining light among the current service chiefs and is reputed as the most charismatic on the continent.

Silent but wise, calm yet ferocious, jovial and decisive at the same time, Faruk has inspired men and officers alike to professionally give allegiance, patriotism and loyalty to the country. This is in spite f the enormous challenges of the 21st century.

However, in the last year, he has proven to be that crack soldier who will obey the last order. His persistent commitment has remarkably made the level of insecurity drastically reduce over time, while the alarming Book Haram insurgents have been dealt with in a pragmatic approach taken by President Muhammadu Buhari. Many successes have been recorded under his leadership as he has been steadfast in the discharge of his duty and providing aid to civil authority.

Yet the earlier we all recognise that no service can do it alone in this fight against banditry and insurgency, the better for us as Armed Forces and a Nation to surmount the current security challenges. This fight needs the support of all and sundry.
On this note, Yahaya Faruk has requested everyone to continue to partner, collaborate and cooperate with the security agencies despite daunting challenges in our collective aspiration to keep Nigeria safe, prosperous and a home for all.

Mr President got it right with the appointment of General Yahaya Faruk. Thanks to the right decision made, now, the dreaded and blood-thirsty members of the insurgent group called Boko Haram have been sacked from many villages they formerly occupied, and majority have been frustrated to flee through the borders.

Security is development, without development, there is no security and without security, there is no development. These two are what help every nation to exude unending greatness. And together, we all can sustain Nigeria’s greatness.

_Agbese is a security expert/human rights activist based in the United Kingdom_

*Purported Investigation against Asiwaju Tinubu, APC UK Threatens Court Action Against Arise TV, Others*

The United Kingdom chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has threatened court action against ARISE TV and other media houses that aired a piece of fake news about the Presidential candidate of the party, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, where it was alleged that the Asiwaju Tinubu is under investigation of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for a fraud committed in the United States some years ago.

This was contained in a statement made available to the press in the late hour of Saturday by the Chairman of the APC UK Presidential Campaign Committee, Barr. J K Adebola.

In the statement, Adebola fumed at Arise TV and other media houses regarding the allegation of drug business by Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Presidential candidate of APC saying that this did not only leave Arise TV with faeces on its face but smirks of recklessness and journalistic rascality of humongous proportion.

“It is inconceivable that a news agency like Arise would air such baseless and arrant fake news without as much as basic due diligence being deployed to ascertain the veracity of a story that carries with it the propensity of maligning the character and person of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu”.

“These incessant character assassination of our Presidential Candidate ever since he threw his hat into the ring to contest for the Presidency of Nigeria is taking on another dangerous dimension and needs to the nipped in the bud”.

“The APC UK Chapter, therefore, call on the appropriate authority saddled with the responsibility of ensuring sanity and decorum in news dissemination to stand up and do the needful now to avoid choreographed concerted efforts by a section of the news media to cause conflagration and set our nascent democracy on fire in their bid to stop Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his quest to becoming our next President”.

“We also call on the security agencies to keep a close watch on the fake news merchants and ensure they are brought to book before they set the country on fire”.

“We stand solidly behind and on the mandate of the Tinubu/Shetima ticket and will continue to campaign until victory is attained at the polls in 2023”.

Adebola, therefore, said that these media houses should prepare to meet them in court if necessary actions were not taken. Among his request is a formal apology to the person of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the APC and the Nigerians in general.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on Friday handed over relief materials to the Bayelsa State Government.

The Director General, Ahmed Mustapha Habib, presented the items to the state government in Yenogoa.

Represented by the Director, Search & Rescue Air Cdre EK Adedokun, Habib sympathised with the state on the level of damage caused by the disaster.

Enumerating the various interventions of NEMA, he assured that the Federal Government will continue to complement the efforts of State Governments in bringing succour to flood victims in Bayelsa and other states.

Habib reiterated the collaboration between the Nigerian Air Force through the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Soroh and NNS Pathfinder, Port Harcourt in rescue operations and airlifting of relief materials from Edo to Rivers and thereafter to Bayelsa.

He, therefore, encouraged the state to build capacity by equipping its emergency management agency and establishing local emergency management centres in local governments to enhance disaster control.

In his response, Governor Duoye Diri, represented by the Commissioner for Agriculture, Hon. Daud Alagor thanked NEMA for coming to their aid.

He, however, requested more items to give them a sense of belonging.

Other state officials were the Commissioner for Information Hon Ayiba Duba, Principal Secretary to the Governor, Mr Worodamie Komonibo and the Chairman of BYSEMA Hon. Walaman Sam Igrubia.

So far Items handed over to the state are 1,000 (10kg) rice; 1,000 (10kg) beans; 1,000 (10kg) maize; 75 bags of salt; 75 kegs of vegetable oil; 150 cartons of seasoning cubes; 75 cartons sachet tomato; 8,000 pieces of nylon mats; 600 cartons of bath soap; 1,000 pieces of mosquito nets; 1,000 pieces of women's wear; 1,000 pieces of children's wear; 1,000 pieces of men's wear; 2,632 (25kg) garri from the Strategic Grain Reserve.

The Young Igbo Intellectuals and Professionals says it is embarrassed by the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi's penchant for fake statistics.

The group said Obi is bringing shame on Ndigbo with the serial lies and distorted statistics he reels out confidently.

The group made this known today at a press conference in Awka, Anambra State.

In his address, Dr. Emeka Ugochukwu, said the situation is so dire and pathetic that a search of “Peter Obi Lies” returns a whooping 360 results while the query for “Peter Obi’s lies” has about 143 entries.

He said "this is simply not who the Ndigbo are".

Ugochukwu added: "YIIP found it pertinent to raise this alarm because it is becoming increasingly clear that the falsehood he is peddling has sent Peter Obi’s chances in next year’s Presidential Election into a downward spiral from which it may never recover unless he urgently addressed this one handicap that has now placed him at a disadvantage among the presidential candidates.

"We find it most unfortunate that our kinsman’s attempt at manipulating the electorate through the distortion of facts has now made him into someone that has to be fact-checked even when he is says the most basic things. Lying is not in the DNA of Ndigbo and it is a great disservice that Obi’s penchant for constantly resorting to this undesirable trait is now being used to stereotype us, we are afraid that such negative stereotyping may become permanent even after the election if he does not stop.

" In addition to the damage he is doing to the Igbo nation, we are further concerned that no state runs on falsehood and the kind of fake news Obi is churning out will not only destroy the country but bring about economic, social and cultural war in the country if he is mistakenly voted into office without first purging himself of this repulsive tendency".

The Young Igbo Intellectuals and Professionals, therefore, called on Peter Obi to "stop embarrassing Ndigbo with the serial lies and fake statistics he is dishing out".

Ugochukwu said: "We demand that he reassesses his participation in the Presidential Election if he is unable to desist from ridiculing Ndigbo with the lies he tells as we are worried that his lies might increase some more and further shame our people now that campaigns are getting into higher gear.

"We advise Mr. Obi to seriously consider collapsing his candidacy into that of a candidate that is acceptable to Ndigbo because it is now glaring that his entire campaign strategy is structured around the approach of telling lies. However, his campaign’s loss of traction and diminishing popularity, even in our homeland in the southeast, is pointer to how people prefer truth over falsehood.

"Finally, we urge Mr. Obi to be aware that there will be consequences if he continues to embarrass Ndigbo with his serial lies and perverted statistics; we shall make any further lies that embarrass Ndigbo expensive for him and his political future."

The Coalition of Civil Society Groups in Benue State for Good Governance has applauded President Muhammadu Buhari for the Federal Government's numerous interventions in the state through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

The group said that NEMA's response to flooding has been timely, thus, ameliorating the effects of the natural disaster.

The coalition made this known in a commendation letter to President Buhari and co-signed by its convener Comrade Gajir Paul and Secretary, Apeh Onuh.

In the letter made public on Monday, the Coalition hailed NEMA Director General, Alhaji Mustapha Ahmed, for undertaking an on-the-spot assessment of the situation in Benue.

According to the group, in the case of the state, the DG empathized with the people over the flood and ensured the distribution of relief materials was timely amidst the efforts to ensure that life returned to normal in the affected communities.

"It is no surprise that Mr President, through the relevant agencies, is committed to cushioning the effect of the disaster on the people, and Benue state happens to be at the forefront of states that have benefited from the commendable leadership initiative that has been impactful on the victims of flooding in Benue state.

"May we also bring to the attention of Mr President the commendable role of the Honorable Minster of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development. Her concern for Benue State's flood victims and her role in joining other actors to ensure relief gets to the people is proof of her pro-activeness in discharging her ministry's mandate," the letter added.

"The activities of NEMA in mitigating the effect of the flooding in Benue state are top-notch. Therefore, it is our opinion that under its present leadership, NEMA has lived up to expectations in disaster management in the country.

"The DG has entrenched a regime of transparency and accountability in the operations of NEMA, which is in line with the strategic focus of the Muhammadu Buhari administration. This has reinforced the disposition of Mr President in ensuring that government business must be in the best interest of the country and not a select few.

"The Coalition of Civil Society in Benue for Good Governance is pleased with the management of the flood disaster in Benue state. It wishes to state unequivocal terms that the NEMA is under the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development supervision.

"The Benue state example suffices. And we wish to commend Mr President on his choice of leadership of the critical National Emergency Management Agency. The stated fact implies that leaders burning with a passion for creating a difference in the lives of the citizenry are at the core of sustainable growth and development".

The Coalition, therefore, said that the DG of NEMA has justified the confidence reposed on him by rejigging the operations of NEMA towards an effective disaster management regime in the country.

"As a coalition of Civil Society groups in Benue state, our commitment to the sustained policy initiatives of this administration remains unflinching. We pledge to continue to support the laudable initiatives geared towards sustainable growth and development in the country," it added.

"Mr President, your leadership strides in the country have elicited hope in the country's citizenry. The Coalition of Civil Society for Good Governance in Benue state salutes your courage and passion towards a better Nigeria.
The professionalism NEMA has shown will be sustained and cannot, for any reason, be compromised."

Following the recent flooding incidents across the country, youths from the Niger Delta have commended President Muhammadu Buhari and the National Emergency Management Agency for the numerous humanitarian interventions in the region.

Under the aegis of the Niger Delta Progressive Youth Forum, the youths said the Buhari-led administration has shown a mindful value of life, making "sacrificial efforts to ameliorate the recent devastating effect caused by the flooding".

Speaking during a press conference on Wednesday, High Chief Richard Egbe Egbe,
President of the group, said about 5,200 victims in the Niger Delta have received grace of a new hope thanks to the interventions by NEMA.

Egbe said NEMA DG, Ahmed Habib, was on ground in the region to supervise the distribution of relief materials to affected persons.

"It could be noted that, Ahmed Habib, the director general of NEMA took it upon himself to lead and bring about to the provisions of the Niger Delta disaster victims, thereby aiding to comfort and, giving warm support to the people, while delivering a consignment of edible and non-edible materials valued at several millions of naira to the office of Delta State Emergency Management Agency (DSEMA)," he said.

"Habib, with the guidance and support of The Niger Delta Progressive Youth who were strong-willed, took up the task, getting all materials disbursed in other to see victims of the disaster comforted. He saw to the donation of relief materials being carried out in different locations mostly affected by the flood, as directed by President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration.

"The relief materials donated by NEMA are 115 Metric Tonnes of Maize, the equivalent of 6,100 bags of 70kg grains, 99.7 Metric Tones of Sorghum which is the equivalent of 2,774 bags of 60kg and 85.7 Metric Tons of Garri amounting to 2,948 bags of 20kg. Other items received by Niger from NEMA to cushion the devastating effects of floods includes Rice, Beans, Groundnut Oil, Children wears, mats and clothing materials valued at several millions of naira.

"It was further acknowledged that other items that were received and distributed were 556 bags of 12.5kg rice, 556 bags of 25kg beans, 556 bags of 12.5 kg of nails 56 kegs of palm oil, 93 cartons of warning cubes, 46 cartons of tomato paste and 3,112 pieces of blankets.
These items were recorded as well in other to show the youths that we have a supportive government come what may. Items such as, 3,112 pieces of foam mattress, 625 cartons of bath soap, 756 pieces of wax print, 800 bundles of roofing sheets, 185 bags of 3 inches nails, 670 packets of zinc nail and 3,668 pieces of ceiling boards where further distributed

"After receiving such success in the disbursement of all the relief materials received by the state, The Niger Delta Progressive Youth Forum could not contain their excitement, and giving high regards to The Presidency and NEMA for their impeccable support".

The Niger Delta Progressives Youth Forum, therefore, expressed gratitude to President Buhari for his swift intervention through the ministry of humanitarian affairs and disaster management, and NEMA.

Egbe said it is relieving to know that government can stand with the people in such a time of disastrous happenings.

He, however, appealed to the state emergency management agencies to imbibe the spirit of transparency and accountability in the discharge of their duties towards ensuring that affected citizens affected are properly taken care of.

The Presidential Candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Dumebi Kachikwu, on Monday, faulted the Naira redesign policy of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) approved by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Kachikwu who made this assertion in Abuja while answering questions from reporters, said the policy will further worsen the economy through closure of small scale industries and render millions of workers jobless.

He lamented that the redesign of the Naira coupled with insecurity and skyrocketing inflation has continued to throw millions of Nigerians into the poverty bracket.

Kachikwu said: “It has been an eventful past one week. The security advisory by some of the western nations and the departure of embassy officials and their families has led to panic amongst Nigerians.

“Even though President Buhari has sought to assure Nigerians that all is well, one begins to wonder what is really going on.
 
“The President failed to respond to rumours that some convicted terrorists were released to secure the freedom of the remaining Kaduna train captives.

“Some now accuse his government of undermining the efforts of our men and women in the field by the indiscriminate release of those who have sworn to destroy our way of life. Only the President can confirm if this is true or not.
 
“Nigerians now live in fear of the unknown as they wonder if they could be in the right place at the wrong time.

“Our highways have gotten worse as bandits now take on and kill convoys with several policemen.

“If those with a retinue of police aides are being attacked and, in some cases killed, then who is safe in Buhari’s Nigeria?
 
“As if this is not bad enough, the President continues to destroy the Nigerian economy with wrong and ill-timed policies that mostly benefits a few.

“Millions are daily thrown into the poverty bracket. Our middleclass has been wiped out as the dollar today exchanges for N800 and above.

“Diesel which powers most businesses and industries retails for around N900. A bag of local rice sells for N50,000 in some parts of Nigeria.

“A bag of Dangote cement retails for N4100. Mind you cement is the building block for the construction industry and that same construction industry is a key driver of any economy.
 
“One begins to wonder if this government is deliberately trying to set a record of creating the greatest number of poor people in the shortest period possible.

“How do you explain timing of the redesign of the naira? The sensible thing to do is weigh the pros and cons before taking such a decision which has further weakened the naira.

“How many Nigerians actually store money in their homes as is being speculated? Do we further destroy the naira because of a few Nigerians?

“Why can’t our security agencies up their game, identify those who have been speculated to store billions in their homes and then use legal means to recover the money.

“By the way who says all money stored at home is ill-gotten wealth? There are those who simply don’t trust banks or don’t want to incur the extortionist bank charges imposed by some banks.
 
“Our economy is in tatters while the managers of our economy fight over who informed who or who got Presidential approval.

“As the naira continues to plunge, more businesses will collapse this week. Thousands will be thrown into the employment market daily.

“This is our reality. We can’t continue to keep quiet while our President continues to pauperise us.”

The ADC Presidential candidate called on President Buhari to convene an emergency economic summit to find solutions to the present economic challenges.

He added: “We all need to get involved in this conversation. It is meaningless to keep on talking about the 2023 general elections when our present realities suggest that we might not have a nation by that time.

“We can’t continue acting like we don’t know tens of millions of Nigerians are unemployed and impoverished.
 
“Their plight gets worse as our economy gets worse. When is breaking point? The President can’t keep on saying he is fighting inflation yet in an import dependent economy small businesses are paying up to N5 million to clear a 20ft container and up to N9million for a 40ft container.

“Who is advising our President? Inflation begins from your ports. This government is killing small businesses.

“If the President is serious about strengthening the naira, he should find out how many new export oriented businesses Nigerian banks funded in the last one year.

“He should find out how many new businesses Nigerian banks funded in the last 10 months. We can’t keep on deceiving ourselves.”

... advocates increased funding for NCPC

The Centre for Social Justice, Equity and Transparency (CESJET) says the trip by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, some state governors and deputies as well as traditional rulers to Rome for prayers is timely and necessary.

The Centre, which made this known today during a press conference in Abuja, also said the move could ultimately make the difference in the fight against insecurity as well as the forthcoming general elections.

Speaking to the media and other guests, CESJET's Executive Secretary, Ikpa Isaac, said by this singular act, the Nigeria Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC) has demonstrated special concern for the country.

Ikpa said the Centre is particularly pleased with the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Rev Yakubu Pam for this bold initiative to pray for the nation.

"The Center for Social Justice, Equity and Transparency (CESJET) is however worried that some people, out of mischief, are creating confusion around this issue that Nigerians should be cheering. We have since reviewed the outcry and discovered that it is the doing of the opposition that is bent on politicising every single aspect of national life even when there is no basis for it", he added.

"As a background, we want Nigerians to note that the country critically needs prayers in view of the reality of our existence. In terms of the security challenges Nigeria faces, all the interventions known to mankind have been applied to address the problem but these have not completely solved the issue. This should tell us that the God factor must be brought in for us to get permanent solutions that will restore peace to the land.

"As for the forthcoming 2023 General Elections, we are all aware that the enemies of Nigeria, within and without, are beating drums of war in anticipation that the polls will become the trigger for a meltdown and eventual disintegration of Nigeria. This is enough reason to approach God in prayers to turn the tide in favour of the country. It is important to pray for the General Elections to become a turning point that would usher the country into greatness.

"Anyone that concludes that prayers in the Holy Land are not needed to seek God’s intervention for these pressing national matters is definitely against the interest of Nigeria and should be feared as an enemy. Only people that want these serious issues from getting the God touch would condemn the steps taken by the Executive Secretary of NCPC in galvanizing leaders to embark on special prayers for the country".

According to the Centre, the efforts of the NCPC may "have helped the country to overcome bloodshed by evil men, external conspiracies targeted at destabilizing the country and other vices".

Ikpa added " NCPC has equally enthroned the highest level of transparency in the face of dwindling revenue across the country, managing its meagre allocation to carry out the much it has achieved. In this wise, we call on the Presidency to accelerate funding for the agency so that it can onboard more well-meaning faithful on its prayer train".

CESJET, therefore, charged Pam to "lead the NCPC to do more in the area of peace-building and national cohesion while remaining undeterred by those that have decided to deliberately mix up the issue so that they can create crises that provide blood for them to suck."

The Centre, however, urged the Federal Government to revisit the allocation for the commission, noting that it needs improved funding to achieve more.

Following the recent rampaging flooding across the country, the Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-economic Rights (CALSER) says the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has lived up to expectations.

The Centre, which made this known at a world press conference in Abuja today, said its Human Rights and Disaster Management team carried out an extensive analysis of responses and interventions to the natural disaster in the country.

In its assessment report, the Executive Director of the disaster management team, Dr. Mrs Cecilia Ikechukwu, said NEMA has risen to the occasion with critical relief for Nigerians in distress.

The Centre said the interventionist agency donated over 400 trailer loads of relief materials to the 36 states and Federal Capital Territory to cushion the effect of the flooding.

“The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) swung into action to alleviate the suffering of victims of the flood. They distributed relief materials worth millions of naira to support persons affected across the different states. The items included the president’s special intervention involving the release of assorted grains from silos,” she said.

“NEMA distributed relief materials, an equivalent of 400 trailer loads of grains to all states of the Federation and the FCT. This is a statement of fact and has been verified by our independent assessors.

“In Ondo state for example 2,100 bags of 50kg maize; 1,774 bags of 50kg sorghum; 3,948 bags of 25kg garri; 1,000 bags of 10kg rice; 1,000 bags of 10kg beans; 1,000 bags of 10kg maize; 75 bags of 20kg salt; 75 kegs of vegetable oil (20ltrs); 150 cartons of seasoning cubes and 75 cartons of tin tomato.

“The non-food items comprised 7,350 pieces of nylon mats; 1,000 pieces of treated mosquito nets; 600 cartons of bath soap; 2,500 pieces of guinea brocade (5 yards); 1,000 pieces of children’s clothing; 1,000 pieces of women’s wear and 1,000 pieces of men’s wear.

“This gesture was also extended to other states affected, especially in Kogi, Anambra, Benue, Delta Bayelsa, and the Rivers States. Internally Displaced Camps were put in place to settle victims who have become homeless. Items were also delivered to the various state governments to assist the most vulnerable groups. The grains were distributed directly to the deserving persons in collaboration with the state government, senators from the various states and the ministers representing the affected states. The aim is to ensure that the relief materials reach affected individuals.

“NEMA played a central role in having the government release grains from its silos. Its assessment reports were forwarded to the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, after which President Muhammadu Buhari approved the release of 12,000 metric tons of assorted grains from the National Strategic Reserve Stock for distribution to all states affected and the FCT.”

CALSER also acknowledged the assistance of International groups such as the US Agency for International Development (USAID) which provided $1 million in immediate humanitarian assistance to support the people affected by the unprecedented flooding.

The Centre, therefore, appealed to the State Emergency Management Agencies to “imbibe the spirit of transparency and accountability in the discharge of their duties towards ensuring that citizens affected by this are properly taken care of.”

To avert a future reoccurrence, CALSER, however, advised both the state and federal governments to:

“Build canals and dams to help in controlling the water levels. Especially in Adamawa and Benue, to contain the water released from Ladgo Dam in Cameroon.

“Dredging of the major rivers to allow for easy passage of water. Improved drainage of waterways to avoid obstructions.”

Development economist/Country Director of Policy House International and former chief of staff Edo state, Taiwo Akerele has listed the gains of Nigeria and the Nigerian government at the recently concluded UNGA and the IMF/World bank annual meetings 2022.

Mr Akerele who participated in his capacity as a development and basic education reforms advocate hinted that Nigeria’s participation in the 2022 outings was not in vain. Mr President Mohammadu Buhari’s speech at the General Assembly was well received. Mr President, for instance, touched on his achievements, especially in the area of combating Boko Haram in the northeast, his efforts at reviving the economy his commitment to ensuring a smooth transition. It was an emotional outing as this was the last attendance in his capacity as President.


Civil Society Organizations were particularly delighted that Mr President touched on the new electoral law that reduces the incidences of rigging and ballot snatching, his speech also touched on electronic transmission of results and the transparent elections in Anambra, Ekiti, and Ondo states state as examples of how the country has transformed in election management.


At the launching of the Integrated Financing Framework (IFF) for the SDGs at the UN Plaza, it was gratifying to both the development partners, the private sector, and Civil Society Organizations that Nigeria has gone a mile ahead of other countries in the search for alternative financing for the SDGs. You will agree with me that any country that is desirous of meetings its SDGs and objectives must look beyond the normal annual appropriation for such. Nigeria was well applauded for taking a bold step in this direction. This event was well attended as Mr President was supported by the Hon Minster of State for Budget and Planning Prince Clem Agba, the SSA on the SDGs, and the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Mr Abdulrasheed Bawa, while my humble self-stood as an observer from the development sector.

At the annual meetings of the World Bank and the IMF held in Washington DC, the Nigerian delegation was sighted in several meetings arguing in support of more Special Drawing Rights (SDRs), IMF quota reforms, climate change support initiatives, support for education financing and extension of education-related projects such as the highly impactful Better Education Service Delivery Project (BESDA), etc. it is gratifying to note that the presence of top officials from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) led by the hard-working former IMF alternate director for Nigeria and Deputy Governor of the CBN, Dr Kingsley Obiora, CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele, Finance Minister  Zainab Shamsuna Ahmed and  Presidential Adviser Prof Doyin Salami was very enriching.

At the Civil Society Policy Forum (CSPF) of the World Bank where I participated as a panellist on SDRs reviews and education reforms, it was noted by the IMF and the world bank that Nigeria is one of the few countries in the world that is presently implementing the Gender-based budgeting system that prioritizes social inclusion, girl child education, and gender equality, this model was recommended by top world bank officials for other developing countries. We intend to follow up with the Federal government on ways to sustain and domestic this initiative at both the state and local government levels.

It is however interesting to note that development partners expressed concern about the worsening out-of-school children crisis in Nigeria, the continued closure of schools in some northern states, and the abduction of children. The Nigerian delegation was very confident that the recent actions of the military have helped secure the release of most kidnapped victims. Nigerian Civil Society Organizations that participated in the two significant events pledged to continue to serve as third-party monitors to the multiple pro-citizens and pro-poor policies of the Nigerian government towards ensuring result-based implementation strategies.

Despite Nigeria’s huge and productive presence and the seemingly positive result, it must be stated that the Nigeran government has a lot of work to do especially around inflation control, climate change/flood management, sustainable basic education funding, and wrapping up its security architecture.

By Okanga Agila

These are interesting times. The Kogi State government had questioned the legality of the 100% takeover of Obajana Cement Company by Dangote Industries Limited. After carefully analyzing the issues at hand, I think that the Kogi State government has a strong case in faulting the alleged takeover of the cement factory by Dangote Industries Limited.

Let us start with the origin of what is today known as Dangote Cement Plc. The Cement factory idea was started in 1992 by the Kogi State Government under the late Prince Abubakar Audu.

Ten years later, in 2002, the Kogi State government and Dangote Industries entered a partnership to actualize the Obajana Cement Factory in its desire to attract investors to the state.

Dangote Industries Limited agreed to be a part of the project in equity in the company and provide funding for the construction of the cement factory.

Here are the issues at play; three certificates of occupancy for Obajana Cement Company Plc, which the Kogi State Government solely owned at the time, were used to obtain a loan of N63bn by Dangote Industries Limited.

There is also no evidence of consideration paid by Dangote Industries Limited to the Kogi State Government from the alleged transfer of Obajana Cement Company.

How does this sound? Not right in all ramifications. Here is another one: the Kogi State government shall endeavour to grant the company tax waivers for seven years. Also, both parties shall be responsible for project funding in equal proportion of equity ( Dangote 90% and Kogi State 10%).

This is my take on the issues of why I think Dangote Industries must have played a clever one. It obtained a loan of 63 billion using the three certificates of occupancy owned by the Kogi State government to get funding for the project. Please note that at the time that was done, ownership still resided with the government of Kogi State.

And that begets the question of what was Dangote Industries Limited's equity in the project aside from obtaining a facility for the project with collateral that belongs to the Kogi State government and not Dangote Industries Limited. Let us pause and reflect on what would have happened if the loan had failed. Who would have been liable? Dangote Industry Limited or Kogi State government? So by my reckoning, the Kogi State government bore the bulk of the risk and was entitled to a substantial part of the profit. But this hasn't been the case, as there is no evidence of any payment consideration to the Kogi State government since the inception of the cement factory.

That aside, the acquisition of the Obajana Cement Company by Dangote Industries Limited was without the resolution of the House of Assembly, which effectively rendered the process null and void. The sale of government property must be backed by law. This is sacrosanct.

The Kogi State government is not mandated by law to grant waivers. Therefore the tax holiday granted by the then Kogi state government was defective as only the Federal Government can grant such waivers.
There are many infractions in acquiring Obajana Cement Company from Dangote Industries Limited.

The technical committee set up by the state government highlighted this much in evaluating the legality of Dangote Cement's acquisition.

The technical committee reported, "There is no evidence of consideration paid by Dangote Industries Limited to the Kogi state government from the alleged transfer of Obajana Cement Company Plc, and no dividend was paid to the state from the profits realized from the inception of Dangote Cement Company Plc to date."

The committee also said the right over the mineral sites belongs to the state government and that there is "no evidence" the state relinquished it to the company.

"Certificate of Occupancy No. KG. 12357, issued in consequence of the improper merger; which issuance date reads 25th November 2016 but was doctored to read 25th November 2015. The statutory right of occupancy issued pursuant to the improper merger dated 8th February 2016 but doctored to read 8th February 2015."

I think the story is getting more apparent on the grave exploitation suffered by the Kogi State government and why the recent position of the Kogi state government in this regard is appropriate.

Let us assume that Dangote Industries acquired Obajana Cement Company legally; the rights over the mineral sites still rest with the Kogi state government. This is a valid position, hence the liability of Dangote Cement Plc to the Kogi State government.

There are indeed infractions in the alleged acquisition of Obajana Cement Company. This is the position of the Kogi State government, and Dangote Cement Plc must stop playing the tortoise game. It had exploited the Kogi state government for several years. In a way, the action of Dangote Cement Plc can be termed criminal.

I stand with Governor Yahaya Bello on this. I think these are the sort of leaders we need in the country. Leaders with the courage to confront those principalities that have exploited the country extensively with any form of remorse. Dangote Cement Plc should dialogue with the Kogi State government towards an amicable resolution of the conflict. Resorting to grandstanding and spreading half-truths won't solve the problem.

I believe at the end of the day; both parties would reach an amicable resolution with lessons learnt by other states in the country.

This is not the time to be clever by half. This is the time to admit, make necessary restitution, and restructure the operational ownership of the Obajana/Dangote Cement Plc. My two cents.

By Silas Momoh

At all levels of the Nigerian federation, the Constitution thrust the management of security of lives and property on the president, governors and local council leaders.

Specifically, Article II of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria vested the executive power of the state in the governor and charges them with the execution of state law. In view of the foregoing, the primary responsibility of any governmemt is first the security of lives and property.

The current administration in Kogi State, under the leadership of Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello, inherited a state that is divided into religious, tribal, and class lines, which culminated in a lot of security concerns. He inherited a state where division, oppression, deprivation and injustice were the order of the day.

In terms of geography, Kogi is not only the hinge that holds the southern and northern parts of Nigeria together, Lokoja, the state capital, occupies an enviable place in the historical trajectory of Nigeria, having served as the first administrative capital of Nigeria.

Still standing on Mount Party, 1500 feet above the sea level, is the First Governor General Lord Lugard's Guest House, where the British Journalist with Times of London, Flora Shaw, suggested in a newspaper article, that the place around the River Niger be named Nigeria.

Also, not only is the state a melting pot of the Nigeria nation, it is bordered by nine states of Nigeria. The states of Edo, Nasarawa, Niger, Ondo, Ekiti, Benue , Kwara, Enugu and the Federal Capital Territory borders Kogi. This scenario and it's delicate ethnic balance make Kogi vulnerable to all manner of crimes and criminality.

True to expectations, Kogi became the epicenter of security concerns. In fact, pre 2015, all the three senatorial districts became a hot bed for kidnapping, political thuggery, armed robbery, youth cultism, herders-farmers clash, ethnic clashes, Boko Haram terrorism etc. Criminals had field day because of its accessibility through multiple points.

At the time, Kogi was daily in the news for every wrong reason. The government at the time was overwhelmed and helpless as security agencies could practically do nothing to remedy it. Kogi was a lucid example of a near-failed territory. Not to mince words, Okene, one of the major towns in the state used to be the operational base of ISWAP and other criminal elements.

Then comes Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, a youngman considered by the political establishment as an underdog, lacking experience, guts and clout. Frankly speaking, many political leaders underrated him. Some even derided him to his face. As at the time he was sworn-in be on 27 January, 2016, some pundits and political bookmakers gave him six months to wear out.

Bello first took his battles to two purveyors of conflicts: the traditional Institutions and politicians. He sounded a clear note of warning to the traditional rulers, mandating them to do everything to secure their domain, while vowing not to spare them, if they are found culpable of fomenting troubles.

He also read a riot act to politicians in the State, that irrespective of their political persuasions, the heavy and long arms of the law will not spare anyone, found to be involved in act that could cause crisis in the State. This strategy worked like magic. Since then, many local council leaders, traditional rulers have paid prices for security breaches in their domains.

Less than three months after he took office, the tides began to turn.Those who had earlier underated him began to feel the heat. Those who think that they owned the State and that without them, nothing can work became jittery. Even criminal gangs, who were celebrating because a supposed inexperienced governor had emerged began to adjust.

Two things worked effectively for Governor Bello: the purity of his motives was not in doubt and courage to dare the powers behind the criminal enterprise in the State. He drew the red line for those who cared to take him serious. He began tightening the noose around kidnappers. His team went all out for their establishments. Their hideouts were invaded. Any house, suspected to belong to a kidnapper or kidnapping gang, were pulled down under his supervision.

One of the problems with fighting criminals in Kogi State before Bello, was the lack of courage to met out punishment to apprehended culprits. Bello's style has no regard for sacred cows. Soon, the young men, who had settled in the believe that crimes pays faster than hard work, realised that they are out of jobs. They were put to flight. They dispersed in all directions to the bordering States. Suddenly, huge relief began to permeate the land.

Okene that was the den of ISWAP, soon came under Bello's artillery. That's where he hailed from but the heavy hand with which he descended on criminal hideout there, sent a clear message to the undesirable elements that the honeymoon was over. Having successfully set example with his own people, it wasn't difficult for other area to 'get sense.'

Apart from motivation for security agencies in the frontline, with logistic and other supports, the Kogi Government in partnership with the Nigeria Police Force also established two Mobile Police Squadron Bases along Obajana-Kabba road and in Okene. He also facilitated the location of a Naval Base in Lokoja, established to ensure adequate security of the waterways in the confluence state.
He personally commissioned the Nigeria Navy Ship Lugard and Navy Barracks.

In recognition of Governor Bello’s astounding performance in the security sector, he has been honoured with several prestigious awards from around Nigeria and beyond, amongst which is: President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday, 21 October, 2022, at the presidential villa, Abuja, honoured him with a distinguished Nigeria Excellence Award in Public Service.

One of Nigeria's leading newspapers, Blueprint, honoured Bello at it's 2021 Annual Public Lectures and Impact Series/Awards, the award was in recognition of his “outstanding leadership qualities and decisive handling of the security situation in the state.”

Also, the Nigerian Police honoured Bello for his unparalleled achievements in securing Kogi, the only State in Nigeria, that borders about 10 States.

He also won the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) ‘Torch bearer of Security’ award.

Similarly, the Association of Nigerians in Diaspora, bestowed its “Icon on Security” award on Governor Yahaya Bello in 2021.

Given the prevailing peace in Kogi state today, at a time other parts of Nigeria is in security turmoil, we can only but say thank you to Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello, for that will serve as spring under his feets to do more.

Momoh is a security expert based in Idah.

The Nigerians in Diaspora Monitoring Group (NDMG) has congratulated Governor Yahaya Bello on his distinguished award for security management conferred on him by President Buhari.

In a statement signed by the President, NDMG - UK chapter, Joyce Ogwu, the Nigerians said the award is well deserved.

Nigeria Excellence Award in Public Service was set up to recognise distinguished public service to Nigeria, either contributions to individuals, state or local community, or the public through excellence in leadership, service, or humanitarianism.

To be eligible, the recipient must be a living Public Official or a private citizen excelling consistently in a given sphere of influence, in good character standing, and must also be at the forefront of service and innovation.

Governor Bello was among an exclusive class of distinguished Nigerians selected and rewarded for excellence.

And Joyce commended the Federal Government for singling Governor Bello for recognition, considering his giant strides in the security of lives and property.

According to her, the Kogi governor has done incredibly well, noting that his onslaught against crimes and criminality has made the state one of the industrial hubs of Northern Nigeria.

"Our dear nation has battled insecurity in recent times. Back home, we are always briefed on consistent attacks, killings and other crimes on daily basis. The Federal Capital Territory is not sparred.

" But in Kogi, the story is different. Aside from the recent flooding ravaging the nation, all that has come out of the state is good news. It is either the governor is commissioning one project or he is kick-starting another. There's not even any bit of crime.

"We must commend President Buhari for this initiative to reward excellence. At least, now, the nation has recognised the efforts and contributions of the governor like many of us have been shouting about".

Besides security, the diaspora group also hailed Governor Bello for his giant strides in infrastructure and unemployment.

Joyce added, " We are also aware that Governor Bello has made a significant impact in healthcare infrastructure, road construction and rehabilitation including the first flyover bridge in the state, education, sports, agriculture, civil service reform, youths and women empowerment among others.

"We want to assure him of the support of Nigerians in diaspora. We are solidly behind him and we are praying for him. It has never been this good in Kogi".

The group, however, advised other governors to follow Bello's example in leadership and governance.

Joyce said Nigeria will not remain the same with men like Bello at the saddle.

They, however, urged Bello not to rest on his oars until the last second of his administration, calling on him to continue to provide good governance for the people of the Confluence State.

By Okanga Agila

It has been established throughout history that the central reason for man's creation is service to God and humanity. Those who understand these two fold divine injunctions are daily seeking the benevolence of almighty creator to empower them to be a channel of happiness and fulfilment for mankind.

The foregoing aptly captures the life of former minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Kauran Bauchi and the Bauchi State governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed.

In his journey through life, the enigmatic politician has demonstrated what's possible, where a leader's preoccupation is not his personal interests but that of the people. As a pathfinder, Governor Mohammed has continued to beat path for others to follow.
Apart from providence, Governor Bala Mohammed's phenomenal rise cannot be by accident. Excellence, it is said, destroys prejudice. When a man knows his onions and does everything with midas touch, it won't be difficult to attract the favour of kings.
As a former British Prime Minister, David Cameron once said, "almost everybody can say yes. The hallmark of a good leader is the ability to say " no", when he should". Governor epitomises this qualities. He never hesitate to say " no", where he should. This has helped him a great deal, to deliver quality services to humanity, wherever he finds himself.

Little wonder he earned public trust for himself, which has catapulted into his resounding victory in the 2019 Bauchi State governorship election. In Nigeria's political templates, it is an uphill task to defeat an incumbent governor in an election. Senator Mohammed achieved it like a walk in the park with two hands in the pocket.

Like a time-tested saying goes: "the reward for good work, is more work". The 2023 governorship election provides an ample opportunity for the people of Bauchi to reward Governor Mohammed's astounding performance with the renewal of his mandate for another four years. Bauchi has never had it so good.

For the parliamentarian, politician, philanthropist and development guru called Bala Mohammed, delivering on a mandate comes natural to him. He doesn't struggle to get things done in the right way because he posses the capacity, courage and supporting energy to deliver. That's why the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, did not remain the same following his departure. I mean, check it now. The Land Swap deal he initiated as minister of FCT, has remained a model for other countries to copy. In fact, he was rated as the best cabinet minister in Africa. His performance was exceptional . Full of energy and always on the run "walking the talk."

As a senator of the federal republic of Nigeria between 2007 and 2010, Bala Mohammed represented his people with guts and astuteness. Like always, he shown like a million stars that have no hiding place. It wasn't a surprise that shortly after leaving the hallow chamber of the National Assembly, he was appointed minister.

In April 2010, when Bala was appointed to supervise the FCTA as the minister, he met a ministry that was in a bad shape. But with sincerity and purity of purpose, Bala was able to make lasting impacts that's impossible to erase through time and eternity. Before his appointment, one of the difficulties that confronted the FCT was vicious challenge of land grabbing. Upon assumption of office, he immediately set up a committee headed Senator Seidu Dasandau. That was how sanity was restored back to land administration in the territory.

Senator Mohammed supervised the development of Katampe District, which was executed through PPP and estimated at over N61, 194, 747, 645.00, with Kagini 1 District costing N52, 609, 879, 284.47, while Maitama Extension District is gulping N137, 454, 626,929.00.

Too many projects stands to Bala's credit. Like the reconstruction and expansion of the 10-lane multiple carriage super highways: the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua (Airport Road) Expressway, and the Outer Northern (Murtala Muhammed) Expressway otherwise known as the Zuba/Kubwa/City Centre highway, as well as the dualization of the Nyanya-Abuja Expressway.

Others are: Resurfacing/Reconstruction of aging Roads in Garki 1 and Wuse 1 Districts; expansion of Kuje-Gwagwalada; Gitata bypass; Karshi – Apo bypass; Sunrise – Guzape bypass; Gwagwalada-Dobi connection and the Bwari Township roads projects; the Gurara-Lower Usman Dam road that connects the FCT with Kaduna State at Jere; completion of work on Tanks 1 and 6 with 40, 000 cubic centimeters storage capacity; attraction of foreign and local investment, totalling over $20 billion.

In his resolve to make Abuja Foreign Direct investment destination, a 37-storey World Trade Centre estimated at $1.2bn (approximately N180 Billion) is being built at the former Bakassi Market, under a Public-Private-Partnership arrangement with the Churchgate Group.

There was also a PPP initiative between FCTA and COHART Group worth $150million to develop Abuja Film Village International (AFVI); a PPP initiative for Katampe District infrastructure with capital inflow of over N61billion and the Land Swap Project ($4.5bn), which had the richest man and woman in Africa, Aliko Dangote and Folorunsho Alakija respectively participating.

The beauty of the complex network of roads in the FCT was enhanced with the vast array of major interchanges otherwise known as ‘’overhead bridges.” These interchanges ease the flow of traffic. Completion and commissioning of major interchanges at AYA, Asokoro, Banex Junction, Jahi/Mabushi Link and Gwarimpa 11 Kado/Life Camp Junction were implemented by the Bala administration thereby significantly freeing traffic flow in the city and its environs

Governor Bala Mohammed moved his magic wand to his home state, when he was elected governor of Bauchi State in 2019. Within three years, out of patriotism for progress, Ƙauran Bauchi completed 6.5 Kilometer Tafawa Balewa, Shira, Jama’are road; 11.6 Kilometer Boi-Tapshin road; 11.2 Kilometer Bogoro-Lusar-Malar road; 2.65 Bununu township roads; 2.5 Kilometer Sade township road; 25.5 Kilometer Udubo-Gamawa road and Warji-Gwaram road.

Other road projects include the 3 Kilometer Disina road and Disina township road; Azare township road; the 5 Kilometer Alkaleri-Gwaram-Gokaru road and Burga-Duguri road. These are not all! There are recently awarded ones, currently under construction and some of which have reached an appreciable stage.

Additionally, Senator Bala, through Kaura Economic Empowerment Project (KEEP), procured hundreds of transportation vehicles and thousands of Keke Napep. This has greatly impacted positively on the economy and transportation industry in the state. Through KEEP, empowerment packages amounting to hundreds of millions of naira are distributed to business owners and many small-scale businesses have grown and blossomed.

Governor Bala also earlier in his first year, flagged off the disbursement of five Hundred Thousand Naira to each of the 1,320 schools in five Local Government Areas of the state, who are the beneficiaries of the Schools Improvement Project grants, a World Bank project. He also provided 6.7 hectares of land for the construction of Northeast UBEC Model School in Bauchi so as to fast track the execution of the project. And with the commitment of the governor towards overcoming the challenges facing the sector, Bauchi State Government secured the award of three million US Dollars for the implementation of Better Education Service Delivery for All, a federal government project

In order to provide condusive environment for teaching and learning, Senator Bala hit the ground running by embarking upon renovation of Primary, Junior and Senior Secondary Schools that were in dilapidated condition. Some of the renovated Schools within Bauchi metropolis include Baba Sidi Primary School, Dutsen Tanshi Primary School, GDSS Zannuwa, Dawaki Primary School, GDSS Kofar Wambai, Government Comprehensive Day Secondary School, GJSS Model Fadamar Mada among others across the State.

In Dass Local Government, Kagadama (A); Bagel Primary School; Baden (B) Primary School; Bagel (B), Galadima; Darussalam (B) and Kagadama (B) Primary School are among the schools renovated. Additionally, to ensure that women are not educationally lagged behind, women education centers in Kirfi, Katagum, Jama’are, Ningi, Dass and Misau local government areas, were renovated.

Similarly, renovation and construction of blocks of classrooms has taken place in various Primary Schools in Tafawa Balewa, Bogoro, Darazo, Gamawa, Tatagum, Ganjuwa, Misau, Dambam, Alkaleri, Toro, Kirfi, Warji, Shira, Zaki, Giade, Ningi and other local government areas across the state.

It is only natural that the people of Bauchi renews his mandate with ease because he made a promise and has delivered.


Okanga wrote this piece from Agila.

2023 Election: My Job will be to invest in Nigerian Youth if elected into office -  Dumebi Kachikwu



.......Says Nigeria can never be great until it invests in its youth. 


The Africa Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Dumebi Kachikwu, says his job will be to invest in  Nigerian youth if elected into office in February 2023.


Speaking in Lokoja, Kogi state on Thursday afternoon during an interactive town-hall engagement to officially flag off his campaign,  Kachikwu said that he is committed to investing in human capital, which he said will help develop the nation.


I am running for President of Nigeria because I am tired of seeing Nigeria not just stagnate but deteriorate as a nation. Our economy is in shambles, our people are becoming more frustrated with each passing day. 


The current administration has been unsuccessful in connecting with the youth, who represent the hope for a better future. 



Nigeria can never be great until it invests in its youth. The youths are our future and without them, this country will not be great. 


 I want to encourage every young person out there to ensure they collect their PVCs and vote for the African Democratic Congress come February 2023 and to stop complaining about being cheated or fooled by people with false promises.


The Youth in Nigeria constitute about 60 per cent of the population, which is a tremendous asset. If sufficiently empowered to meet the global challenges of today and tomorrow, there is no doubt that a great tomorrow will be theirs and Nigeria's. 


Though this may sound like a cliché, it is nevertheless true that no country can achieve greatness if it fails to invest in its people.

By Helen Uloko

An Indian adage says that the tree that bears good fruit will be stoned. It is only when someone sees the value of the fruit and longs to taste its sweetness, will they take the effort to throw a stone.

This is the testimony of the Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig.-Gen. MK Fadah, whose excellence has attracted stones from ignorant and shortsighted few.

People ordinarily know the value of good fruit. However, unknowingly or unconsciously, they hurl stones and after a while, they take shade, standing under the same tree, waiting for the fruit to fall into their mouth.

Fadah has enjoyed a distinguished military career. Yet he is still on an adventure to learn more. His adversaries can only toss fibs.

A native of Bade Local Government area of Yobe State, he attended the Kaduna State Polytechnic where he obtained Higher National Diploma (HND) before obtaining a Post-Graduate Diploma in Management at the Lagos State University.

He holds a Master's Degree in Peace and Strategic Studies from the University of Ilorin, Kwara State and he is currently working on a PhD Security and Strategic Studies at the Nigerian Defence Academy.

Fadah was commissioned into the Nigerian Army in 1993 and to date, he has excelled in no less than 10 courses ranging from, young officers to executive levels.

Some of the courses are Young Officers’ Course - Intelligence, Tactical Intelligence Course - Sat and Civilian, Executive Management Course, Police Administration and Security Management, Comprehensive Protection of Civilian Leadership Course (Nigerian Army Peace Keeping Centre) among others.

Following his appointment as DG in May 2022,
Fadah reiterated that he would work hard to maintain the dream of the founding fathers of the scheme, which he said was targeted at uniting the country.

His landmark achievements in the first 100 days in office included the inauguration of the staff hostel in Kefi, Nasarawa State, the inauguration of the NYSC TV and Radio mast, almost completed ICT centre amongst others.

As DG, Fadah has stood his ground on improved staff welfare, NYSC mandate, and promotion of entrepreneurship among corps members while admonishing anti-drug abuse campaigns.

Fadah, since he assumed office, has been very focused on preparing the next generation of leaders and sharpening them to change the economic situation of the country.

He admonished the 2022 Batch B Stream 2 corps members to be good ambassadors of their families, institutions of graduation and the scheme wherever they found themselves as they.

He puts corps members on high alert to enable them to grasp the best of orientation camps, commending members where they have done well while sanctioning defaulters.

He has, however, been accused of corruption, forgery, incompetence, nepotism, marginalisation and being a stooge of the Senate President, Sen. Ahmed Lawan who is also from Yobe, to manipulate the 2023 elections in favour of the All Progressives Congress (APC)

The debate on whether the scheme has achieved its aims and objectives and should be scrapped or restructured to meet current demands has also continued under the leadership of Fadah.

One of the proponents of the view that the NYSC be discarded is the Nigeria Rebirth Movement; it also holds a negative view of Fadah’s leadership.

In a statement signed by its President, Musbau Temitope, the supposed pro-Nigerian group said it came to this conclusion after an analysis of the activity of the scheme.

However, the Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights (CALSER), an Civil Society Organisation (CSO) in a statement cleared Fadah of any wrongdoing.

The organisation said it came to this decision after an independent assessment of the operations of the scheme under the leadership of Fadah.

CALSER argued that Fadah’s records, qualifications and scorecard are available for verification saying that those behind the accusations were doing so out of “sheer ignorance.”

The one-year mandatory NYSC programme which was established in 1973, three years after the Nigerian civil war to among other objectives, foster national unity and integration could be said to be a success.

Some perceive the NYSC as a good stopgap for millions of young people in Nigeria and should focus more on entrepreneurship, community development, and skills development.

Other Nigerians are of the view that the NYSC is needed now more than ever before as many young people have never known anywhere other than their hometowns and University community, a rare opportunity the scheme gives.

For others, the NYSC is a soft landing between leaving the university and entering the real world. It provides a unique opportunity of finding life-changing jobs, future partners and destiny helpers among others.

The major argument against the scheme, however, is the insecurity that has pervaded the nation as many are concerned about the safety of corps members in strange lands and the alleged corruption in the system.

On whatever side of the divide one stands, it is crystal clear that should the alleged corruption security concerns be addressed, the NYSC remains an all-important programme for developing countries like Nigeria with such diversity and distrust among geographical zones.

The healing of wounds from the civil war is not over, political tension between regions still exist, nation-building remains a collective mandate and just like soccer, the NYSC provides a fair platform where young Nigerians put aside their difference and relate like patriotic nations.

Uloko is a public affairs analyst writing from Obi, Nasarawa State.