₦airaland Forum

Ndace's Trilogy in honour of Buratai set to launch in Abuja

Three books highlighting ‘Nigeria’s Armed Forces War Against Boko Haram-ISWAP Insurgency’, in the North East is set to launch in honour of Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai (rtd), former Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and immediate past Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Benin.

The book's presentation and launching event will take place on 13th of May, 2023 at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja.

The trilogy is authored by Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated embedded journalists, who is currently the General Manager, Special Duties at Blueprint Newspaper.

The books are titled, “Walking the War Front with Lt. Gen. TY Buratai”, “Duty Call Under Buratai’s Command” and “The Lonely Grave”, a collection of poems.

Speaking on his motivation for the book, the author said: “Amongst many soldiers and servicemen, Lt. Gen. TY Buratai occupies a large part of Nigeria’s war against insurgency.

“He is one senior officer who I have always admired, and have a detailed personal encounter with at the warfront. Indeed, his zeal to see that Nigeria is safe again must be highly commended and duly recognized.

“The book documents his lifestyle at the warfront and how he increased the morale of Nigerian soldiers through different techniques, the photo-book also portrays first hand encounter of how some of this approaches were adopted and the poem book also will be a good read for all those seeking to know the rhythm of Nigeria’s military morale songs".

On the scope of the book, the ace defence correspondent, explained that his trilogy will be an incredible experience expressed through first-hand accounts, poems, photographs, and powerful storytelling, witnessing the courage and sacrifice of soldiers, the brutal realities of combat, and the toll that war takes on both the human body and the human mind.

A military officer who saw the books said: “These books, which have taken Jibrin over 5 years to successfully complete, have taken a lot of sweat, blood and tears. These books are not just mere stories but actual realities. Not just through his eyes, but also through the experiences of other Servicemen”.

Fuel Subsidy: CISLAC queries $800m World Bank loan for Nigerians

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre, CISLAC, has queried the Federal Government over the World Bank’s $800 million loan to the country, as a palliative to cushion the effect of the proposed fuel subsidy removal by June.

The Executive Director of CISLAC, Auwal Musa-Rafsanjani, in a statement on Friday, lamented the nonchalant attitude displayed by the President Muhammadu Buhari administration, towards the country’s crippling debt crisis.

He said that borrowing to fund post-fuel subsidy removal palliatives is strange, noting that “if the fuel subsidy removal process has been suspended as announced by the Minister of Finance after the NEC meeting at the end of April, then the government should return the borrowed money because what are we taking the loan for?”

Mr Rafsanjani said that fears of the country getting another $800 million loan from the World Bank sends waves of worries in the minds of Nigerians as Nigeria’s revenue collection in 2022 stood at N10 trillion, with a debt of about N77 trillion.

"In 2022, Nigeria paid about N7 trillion in fuel subsidy and in 2023 from January to June when the country intends to stop paying the subsidy is N3.6 trillion so if we are paying such whopping amount of money when subsidy is removed, we should have enough savings instead of taking additional loans, we can use the subsidy funds for post fuel subsidy removal.

“As a matter of fact, we don’t need to borrow. What we need to do is to cut waste. Just recently, we all saw the aviation minister announced that he bought 10 fire fighting trucks for over 12 billon naira. Is this what we are borrowing to spend on?

"Also, we read that the Minister of Communication and Digital Economy announced the approval of 24.2 billion to provide internet facilities at airports and some institutions amongst other places. These are the things we are spending on few weeks before the end of this administration and this is unacceptable”.

The anti-corruption organisation boss also condemned the reckless spending during the end of this present administration few weeks to go, saying it’s totally unnecessary and it’s a clear sign of diversion of public funds for personal interest and not for the overall good of the country.

He called on the financial watch-dogs of the country to spotlight all public spendings that have not followed adequate procurement process.

The CISLAC Executive Director said: “what’s the need for acquiring fighter trucks towards the end of an administration a position you have held for over 8 years but you find no need to acquire the trucks until the end, this is a clear sign of contracts scams that doesn’t follow due process and public interest it is simply a financial recklessness.

“And Nigeria as a nation that is so swamped up in debts we can’t afford that right now because where’s the public interest in that elephant project.

“Also the Minister of Communications have gone ahead to get an approval of FEC for N24.2bn for internet access at airports and universities but this are services that naturally should be done by service providers".

He maintained that “Nigeria is already in another debt trap. Records from both national and international financial and debt institutions regarding Nigeria’s debt reveal a state in crisis.”

IBM’s Dr. Heather Domin to speak on 'AI Ethics' in Baze University seminar

Dr. Heather Domin, the Program Director for Tech Ethics by Design at IBM, USA, will speak on 'AI Ethics and Foundation Models at a one-day seminar hosted by Baze University Abuja.

A statement by Dr Rislan Kanya, Deputy Vice-Chancellor IT, Research and Innovation (ITR&I), stated that Dr. Heather, who is Program Director for Tech Ethics by Design at IBM and Associate Director of the Notre Dame-IBM Tech Ethics Lab for IBM, will speak on the use of AI and foundation models and generative AI applications such as ChatGPT.

At the hybrid workshop slated for May 23rd by 2-3 PM (GMT+1), Dr. Heather will also be speaking on IBM's multidimensional approach to AI Ethics and the work she leads around Ethics by Design and with the Notre Dame - IBM Tech Ethics Lab to help drive the ethical use of AI and other technologies.

She has a Ph.D. in Business Analytics and Data Science and is certified in agile and traditional project management methodologies (PMP, PMI-ACP, CSM). She has played a pivotal role in building a successful AI Ethics Board project office and is known for her leadership in establishing foundational corporate governance and compliance programs such as Ethics by Design and the Algorithmic Impact Assessment.

The statement further reads: "Leveraging her academic and practitioner experience, she writes, speaks, and participates in working groups such as the Expert Group on Responsible AI Management established by Ohio State University's Program on Data and Governance and the Data & Trust Alliance User Group for the Algorithmic Bias Safeguards for Workforce. She is also a principal investigator for research studies on tech ethics.

Her research and publications relate to emerging technologies and processes with a focus on intersecting areas such as trust and ethics. Some of her recent publications include “Standards for Protecting At-Risk Groups in AI Bias Auditing” and "The Future of RegTech for AI Governance".

To register: https:///heatherbaze2
To participate online: https:///heatherbaze

CISLAC tasks journalists, security agencies, on early warnings and response to prevent crisis

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Center, CISLAC, has tasked journalists, security agencies and community observers in the country on early warnings and early response mechanisms.

Speaking during a two day training in Enugu organized for community observers and response networks, and for the media respectively, on Friday, CISLAC’s Executive Director, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, advised media houses to adopt a system which will encourage citizen input on early warnings and early response.

According to him, early warning and early response reporting goes beyond the convention style of reporting, adding that it demands in-depth work of collecting, analyzing and contextualizing information through social mobilization.

He also called for the formation of an emergency response team which will include the media and other relevant bodies to coordinate and build confidentiality in information sharing on early warning and response.

He said “Early Warning and Early Response reporting extends beyond usual reporting functions by journalists to in-depth issues like ability to identify, collect, analyse and contextualise information/data through well-informed social mobilisation and socialisation process.”

Speaking on the role of security agencies on the issue of early response, Rafsanjani decried the continuous delayed response to early warning by security agencies which according to him has discouraged community observers from reporting predicted conflict.

He further tasked community observers on proactive and verifiable information gathering on early warnings as it will help timely decision making in early response.

“Recurring delayed Response to Early Warning signal by relevant security agencies has continued to discourage reporting effort by Community Observers in conflict prediction and prevention process.

“Efficient Early Warning system remains paramount in conflict prevention process with cognisance to risk assessment, response system, prediction mechanisms and wider information dissemination."

Rafsanjani also called for collaborative efforts of National and state Assembly members, adding that constituency offices of legislators should serve as a credible platform to liaise with elected officials to draw their attention on early warning signs, so that they become very active and informed, and raise matters of public interest safely and protection in the legislature.

NIPR President to receive honorary award from Nasarawa university

The National President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, NIPR, Mallam Muktar Zubairu Sirajo, will receive the 2023 Pillar of Public Relations Award, from Nasarawa State University, Keffi.

In a letter signed by the university's Vice Chancellor, Prof Suleiman Bala Muhammed, Mallam Zirajo will receive the award on Tuesday, May 2, at the fourth International Conference on Communication and Development in Africa, an event in commemoration of the 5th anniversary of the university's Institute of Strategic and Developmental Communication.

The letter described Mallam Zirajo as a prime public relations professional who has contributed to the growth of the institutes public relations programme, adding that the school is proud of him.

“The university management is proud of your sterling antecedents as a prime public relations professional and particularly for your support towards the growth of the public relations programme in its Institute of Strategic and Development Communication (ISDEVCOM).”

Accordingly, we have chosen the occasion of the 5th anniversary of the Institute of Strategic and Development Communication (ISDEVCOM) to honour you before the collection of International Scholars expected at the Conference with the 2023 Pillar of Public Relations Award,” the letter stated.

Sudan crisis: CISLAC decries ‘fake’ evacuation commitments by Nigerian govt

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre, CISLAC, has described as fake the commitment by the Federal government in evacuating students currently trapped in the crisis-ridden Sudan.

The Executive Director of CISLAC, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, in a statement on Friday, lamented that the students are forced to take their destinies into their own hands.

According to him, some students have to even take pay money to the bus drivers conveying them while the government didn’t bother to give any reason or justification for that.

Mr Rafsanjani stressed that the government has a constitutional responsibility to ensure that the rights of the citizens are protected internally and externally.

While calling on the government to take advantage of the opportunity given by the Sudanese government to urgently evacuate the students, Mr Rafsanjani said if nothing is done to address this situation, Nigerian students might start dying.

He also called on state governors whose subjects are also trapped in Sudan to help to evacuate them immediately.

The CISLAC boss further appealed to private individuals and private organisations to support the evacuation of students, lamenting that the government has failed in its responsibility to evacuate the children of the poor masses schooling in Sudan.

He said: “Other smaller countries have succeeded in evacuating their subjects in Sudan, if a country like Uganda can evacuate their citizens, what is our government waiting for?

"We believe that if their children are involved, they would have taken swift actions to evacuate them, but these are children from poor homes, that is why excuses are being given.

"We are worried that people are hungry and there is no concrete information from either the Embassy or the Committee in charge of the buses.

"People are sitting outside under high temperatures. The temperature is so high that people are thirsty. Nowhere to find water to drink or buy food to eat.

"We are worried that students are contributing the little they have to pay their transportation to neighbouring countries which is very risky and dangerous, because the government has made fake promises to provide transportation to evacuate them.

"This clearly shows that the Nigerian leaders appear not to care about their citizens and their safety.

“We call on the presidency and the national assembly to take necessary step by liaising with African Union and other international bodies to ensure amicable resolution of the Sudan crisis.”

Conflict Prevention: CISLAC, Security Agencies Partner On EWER In Enugu

The Executive Director of Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC)/Transparency International in Nigeria (TI-Nigeria), Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani) has called for more collaboration and collective support for Early Warning Early Response in conflict prediction in Nigeria.

Represented by Senior Program Officer (Defence and Security), CISLAC, Ms. Bertha Elohim Ogbimi, during a courtesy visit to Director of State Security (DSS) Enugu state, the Executive Director noted that Early Warning Early Response system can only be effective through active community involvement and participation in conflict de-escalation.

“We observed that an EWER system cannot be effective without strong connection between civil society and the key stakeholders, such as policymakers, to carefully monitor the indicators and elicit positive responses, while de-escalating the potential crises.

“As you are not unaware, every part of Nigeria is currently battling with an evolving epidemic of multi-dimensional security threats and the South East region is not exempted.

“CISLAC/TI-Nigeria has been advocating adequate and inclusive reform in the Defence and Security sector targeted at protection of civilians in armed conflict.

“The criticality of initiating Early Warning Early Response mechanisms, especially at community levels as proactive measures to conflict prevention was highly recommended by wider stakeholders in our recent engagements,” he stated.

“This calls for more collaboration, communication, coordination and collective support for early warning and conflict prediction mechanisms, which are central in conflict prevention,” the Executive Director added.

According to him, effort to bridge the preventive gaps brought to the fore, the ongoing project with specific focus on ‘Strengthening Capacity, Advocacy, Accountability and Local Engagement towards Developing Early Warning and Early Response Mechanisms to Enhance Protection of Civilians in Nigeria’, implemented by CISLAC/TI-Nigeria with support from The Open Society Foundations Africa (OSF-Africa).

“We acknowledge and commend the essential role of the State Security Service (SSS) as a major stakeholder in conflict detection, prevention and response in Nigeria.

“Under the project, we will be complementing this role by building a well-informed and vibrant EW Community Observers to monitor and report indicators as a vehicle in conflict prevention.

Reacting to the visit, Director of State Security, Enugu state, Mr. Aminu Hena, assured the Service readiness to enhance collaboration with CISLAC through improved communication and information sharing on Early Warning, primarily to assist in making well-informed decisions in Early Response.

In demonstration of commitment to the newly established working relationship, the Director appointed a Security Liaison Officer to serve as an interface in Early Warning information sharing between CISLAC and DSS to elicit proactive response in conflict de-escalation process.

Earlier, the Director of Operation, DSS Enugu state, Mr. C.C Onuegwu, said the Service remained committed to total confidentiality in useful information sharing to improve security of lives and property.

“The Service will not hesitate to enhance the working relationship with CISLAC in collective effort to secure lives and property in Nigeria,” he reassured.

Baze University, Abuja has on Saturday matriculated a total number of 1, 224 newly admitted students into various disciplines for the 2022/2023 academic year.

The ceremony marked their formal admission into the university for their respective academic journey.

In his remarks during the ceremony, the Chancellor of the university, Prof. Tahir Mamman, SAN, congratulated the new students.

While reminding them of the essence of their admission into the University, Mr Mamman said: “Your choice is well informed and on the University’s part, it is our solemn duty to ensure a suitable environment for you to learn.

“This involves having the right caliber and mix of staff, as well as facilities and services especially in this era of IT to facilitate and modernise your learning.”

The VC further urged the students to develop consciousness to be innovative and become critical thinkers, so as to contribute to the progress of humanity.

He also reminded the students that Baze University has zero tolerance for any form of indiscipline, including examination malpractices, drug abuse, physical and verbal fights, stressing that anyone found wanting in such characters would be sanctioned accordingly.

He also made reference to the rules and regulations guiding the conducts of all students in the school, asking the new students to get acquainted with the regulations contained in the student’s handbook and strictly abide by them to avoid unnecessary sanctions.

Mr Mamman, therefore, promised that as the Vice-Chancellor, he would ensure that the students have a memorable stay in the University.

He said, “it is our expectation that in a few years’ time it will be to proudly witness and usher you through your graduation and convocation ceremony”.

On his part, the Pro-Chancellor of Baze University, Sen. Datti Baba-Ahmed, challenged the students to focus on their academic journey and be credible ambassadors of their homes and the University.

He said: “As you begin this new phase of your life, I urge you to be focused, disciplined, and diligent in your studies.

“Remember, success does not come on a platter of gold; it requires hard work, determination, and perseverance. I encourage you to take advantage of all the resources available to you and make the most of your time here.”

At the end of the ceremony, the Registrar, Dr Mani Ibrahim, facilitated the oath session, inviting the respective students to rise for the purpose of matriculation.

One of the newly inducted student, Stephanie Asema, said she was very happy to be in Baze, adding that she was impressed by the multi-cultural background of the various students and the conducive environment on campus.

Another student, Mark Tehila, commended the school for the numerous social activity it offers, saying: “it is fun to be here”.

Northern Women Breaking Barriers in Nigeria's Male-Dominated Political Landscape

By Muawiyyah Yusuf Muye

That the Nigerian political scene has historically been dominated by men is not in doubt; with its attendant and ceaseless advocacy by pro-women groups for a better deal in political and governmental affairs. Despite these obstacles, there have been exceptional women who have stood tall, shattering boundaries to assert their pedigree. These women have proven themselves intellectually and politically astute, with their achievements being the result of hard work and grace. Celebrating them to inspire the womenfolk has become imperative.

SENATOR AISHA DAHIRU BINANI

Senator Aisha Dahiru Binani is a Politician, Businesswoman, and founder of Binani Group which houses Binani Printing Press and Binani Air among others, She obtained her Higher National Diploma in Electrical Engineering from the University of Southampton, She was a member of the green chambers representing Yola North/Yola South/Girei federal constituency, As the Senator Representing Adamawa Central and APC Gubernatorial Candidate, She is known for her industriousness as well as her humility. I have been around her on several occasions, and you will hardly even feel like you are in the presence of a public figure.

Her philanthropic activities in her home state of Adamawa State are well documented, making her a beloved figure. Sen. Binani won her Senatorial Seat in 2019, Against all odds and is poised to become the first elected female Governor in not only the North but in the whole of Nigeria, a feat that will undoubtedly serve as a source of inspiration and make her a beacon of hope not only to Northern Women but to women in Nigeria and Africa as a whole.

DR. RAMATU TIJJANI ALIYU

Dr. Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu, a certified Urban and Regional Planner from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, has gained a lot of popularity in Nigeria's Political Arena in recent years. Fondly called "The Amazon" by her supporters, RTA has a Master's Degree in Public Administration and a Ph.D. in Security and Strategic Studies from the Nasarawa State University, Keffi. She also earned an Honorary Ph.D. in Public Administration from Commonwealth University, London, and a Certificate in Leadership Skills from Abbey College, London. In 2021, Dr. Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu Became an Envoy Extraordinaire of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners EEO.NITP

Dr. Aliyu's career trajectory has been fascinating. She has worked in the private sector in a civil engineering firm, serving as one of the Managing Directors of the firm, which made her a practicing town planner as well. She adroitly held several high profile offices from the defunct ANPP to the current APC where her contributions tremendously helped her Party towards resounding successes in 2015 and 2019. She was then appointed the Minister of State for FCT, a role she has been discharging  to the admiration of many.

The politician in Dr. Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu is always visible, like the saying, “A Gold Fish has no hidden place”, This was evident in the just concluded 2023 General elections, through the group Nigerians Unite for Tinubu/Shettima (NUFTS), her project for the Tinubu/Shettima Campaign. She held several positions during the electioneering campaign, including Chairman of APC FCT Presidential Campaign Council (PCC), Co-Coordinator of FCT APC PCC, Coordinator of the PCC Women Wing, Matron of Tinubu Support Organization, and several other Tinubu Support Groups. She played a significant role in the campaigns across the FCT and Kogi State. APC made tremendous progress in the FCT Winning 1 House of Representatives seat, a position formerly occupied by PDP going into the election, She is no doubt one of the top politicians to watch out for going forward.

DR. HADIZA SABUWA BALARABE

Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe is the Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, In the 2019 governorship election, Governor El-Rufai who was facing the baggage of the unpopular revolutionary reforms and policies of his administration, as well as the backlash from Southern Kaduna Christians for daring to jettison the Muslim/Christian ticket decided to risk his reelection bid by nominating Dr. Sabuwa Balarabe as his running mate, breaking the norm in Northern Nigeria by choosing a woman as his running mate and his unwavering faith in her paid off, she became the first female to be elected to that office in the whole of Northern Nigeria

Like myself, Dr. Balarabe is a graduate of the University of Maiduguri, where she received training as a Surgeon with over two decades of experience in public health. She served as the Director of Public Health in the FCT in 2014 and held the position until February 2016 when Governor El-Rufai appointed her as the Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Primary Health Care Development Agency, she was renominated as the Deputy to the Kaduna State Governor-elect, Senator Uba Sani in the 2023 election, She has fortified her position as one of those exceeding boundaries set for women in a male-dominated field of politics

HADIZA BALA USMAN

Hadiza Bala Usman’s impressive career path has made her a source of inspiration for many, she attended Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. She later went on to receive a Master's Degree in Developmental Studies from the University of Leeds in the UK. As the former Chief of Staff to the Executive Governor of Kaduna State, Mal. elrufai, Her appointment to this position was a clear indication of her intellectual Capacity, brilliance, and competence. Her rise to the top was not surprising given her previous role as one of the strongest policy drivers of the APC Campaign in 2015.

Ms. Bala Usman's tenure as the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority was a Vindication of the faith placed in her for such a position. She implemented innovative policies that led to the overhaul of the entire port authority. She fearlessly tackled the challenges in her job even if it meant stepping on toes. Her exploits propelled her to the top echelon of the leadership ladder and won her the admiration of many Nigerians. In 2023, Ms. Usman was appointed Deputy DG (Admin) of the APC Tinubu/Shettima Presidential Campaign Council. She continues to inspire young women to strive for excellence in all their endeavors

SENATOR BINTA MASI GARBA

Senator Binta Masi Garba is a remarkable advocate for women's rights, She attended Kaduna Polytechnic, where she obtained Higher National Diploma (HND) in Marketing. In addition, she attended the Harvard Kennedy School of Government and earned a Certificate in Public Financial Management. She began her professional career as an advert officer at New Nigeria Newspapers.

Senator Garba was elected to represent the people of Kaduna South Federal Constituency at the green chambers in 1999, at the time, she was the youngest Federal legislator in Nigeria. She contested for the same House of Representatives in her home state of Adamawa State, representing Madagali/Michika Federal Constituency, and won, making her the first politician to represent two different Federal Constituencies at different times. When the All Progressives Congress (APC) was formed, she became the first and only Female State Party Chairperson to date. few individuals, regardless of gender, can achieve this feat. In the 2015 elections, she was the only female Senator Elected in all 19 Northern States of Nigeria.

LATE SENATOR AISHA AL-HASSAN

This write-up will not be complete without the Honourable mention of Late Hajiya Jummai Alhassan, She defeated the then-incumbent Sen., former Ambassador Manzo Anthony in Taraba North Senatorial Primaries. She then went on to defeat a former governor in the general elections, A trained lawyer, she became the first female to be appointed Taraba State AG and Commissioner of Justice. She was also the first woman to be appointed Secretary FCT judicial council and later appointed the Chief Registrar of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, She contested for the Taraba State Gubernatorial seat in the 2015 and 2019 elections under the Platform of the All Progressive Congress (APC) and UDP but lost the former to the candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Darius Ishaku under controversial circumstances, her enigmatic cult following earned her the name “Mama Taraba.”

President Buhari, however, appointed her as his Minister of Women Affairs in 2015.

Bago: Niger's Vista of Hope and the Tasks Before Him, By Awaal Gata

Umar Mohammed Bago’s victory in the March 18th gubernatorial election in Niger State could best be termed as a classic miracle and the workings of Allah, who bestows leadership and power upon whomever He pleases.

Especially the primary election, the odds were not in his favour because there were many (perceived) moneybags in the race and his campaigns were not the loudest or the most glitzy, but with the struck of fate, he surprisingly took the day. For the general election, the story was (almost) the same. Since he arrived the political bloc in 2007, Bago has been a serial disrupter of the the entrenched political system. I see that as the testament of the trust the people have in him. It is this trust that has earned him the priced and coveted seat of the Executive Governor of Niger State where he shall, in the next four years, preside over the affairs of the state and paddle its developmental ship. Bago's penchant for excellence and his firm and calculative leadership paraphernalia have left no one in doubt that he is, indeed, the person the people of Niger need at this critical time to take the state out of the backwoods of retrogression.

It is, nonetheless, imperative to stress that, while Bago and his political acolytes deserve to celebrate his victory at the poll, the true winners and owners of his victory are Nigerlites. The victory belongs to all those who invested their trust, time, and resources in achieving and enthroning the Bago mandate. It is equally important to note that there is no leadership without the people, and those who neglect the collective aspirations of the people betray their trust and sacrifice. While the people have expressed unalloyed confidence in the Governor-elect, it is hoped that the new leadership shall return the favour by embarking on people-centred projects that will propel the economic development of the state.

The first debt he owes the people is peace and security. The Bago-led administration must strive towards the prioritisation of the safety and security of the people as well as their economic empowerment, for any leadership that does not lead to the socio-economic emancipation of the majority of the people will suffer grievous setbacks because the people are the engine room of any sustainable development. For example, the people in internally displaced camps in the state must receive special attention because of their vulnerable circumstances which have led to the loss of their dignity and means of livelihood. The new government must work to ensure that peace returns to their ravaged communities so that they can return to their normal lives. Once peace is entrenched, the economic undertakings of the people will flourish, leading to high productivity and economic growth.

The new government must also work in reinvigorating the interests of the people in the affairs of governance and strengthen their hope for a better and prosperous state for all. Because of the history of hardship in the state, the people have lost confidence in governance, hence the Bago administration must work assiduously in bringing respite.

This respite can be in form of microeconomic grants that are tailored towards getting people on their feet economically. They could be in the fashion of the Federal Government’s social intervention programmes that are coordinated by the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development. The Bago administration can establish the state's version of the same ministry to tackle the humanitarian challenges in which the state is enmeshed as a result of insecurity and other disasters. The new government must initiate policies and programmes that are deliberately geared towards the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that can guarantee the attainment of the self-actualisation drive of the ordinary people.

The dire level of infrastructural deficits in Niger State is stifling development; therefore, for Bago to set the state on the path of sustainable development, he must vigorously pursue infrastructural development. He could start with completing the many uncompleted projects in the state. The abandonment of the multipurpose mall in the heart of Minna around Mobil Roundabout is an eyesore for what a city centre should look like. Nigerlites deserve a befitting capital city that can boast of all the paraphernalia of modernity. It would, therefore, be gratifying to the people if the government of Bago can make this happen.

The perennial water problem in Minna and other parts of Niger State is another huge embarrassment. In this age, Nigerlites should not be experiencing water scarcity. Potable water should be a human right, and if 'water is life' as the saying goes, then the government must do everything humanly possible to make it available. The various dams with which the state is blessed could be leveraged to resolve the scathing problem.

Access to a robust healthcare and educational services must be prioritised in view of the fact that living a quality life is largely dependent on them. Consequently, the new government must consider reviewing the state of education and healthcare services in the state. The General Hospitals in the state need revamping and the manpower needs strengthening, to foster effective service delivery. Also, an all-encompassing health insurance scheme should be a given in the state, since living a quality life is tied to seamless access to quality and affordable healthcare services whether in urban or rural areas. Niger's education sector also needs overhauling. Bago should consider reviewing the existing educational policies to pave way for a more comprehensive ones which are cutting-edge and conform with global best practices. To make sure that it is ideally achieved, the education system has to be under the direct supervision of the governor and managed by a tested and trusted team. Bago has to take education as a do-or-die affair, since it is pivotal to every aspect of development. This is necessary because the state of public education in Niger State is shameful and despicable, and only a draconian measure will checkmate its decay and gradual descent into the abyss. Because scholarship is important in the pursuit of mass education, the new government must be deliberate in instituting scholarship schemes that sponsor gifted Nigerlites to acquire quality education in developed countries. The impact of quality education on society cannot be over-emphasised and if the crux of government is the development of society and its people, education must be prioritised as fundamental to the realisation of a functional society.

It is axiomatic that unemployment is deep-rooted in Niger State. It is one of the factors impeding its development. To reverse the situation, the new government has to embrace holistic skills empowerment programmes (not the popular cosmetic ones) in various endeavours since they are key in reducing unemployment and increasing productivity. Young people should be the main targets of the schemes.

Myriads of opportunities come with information technology skills and innovations. Unarguably, IT is the pivot of the present and future orders of the world. Youth in some Southwestern states are no longer satiated with government jobs because of the volumes of money they are earning through their IT skills. Niger should mimic those state by creating IT hubs for training its deluge of youth.

Bago can also make Niger more prosperous or increase its economic viability if he activates the huge natural resources that the state is endowed with. Agriculture and tourism should be on the forefront.

It is understandable that many government's developmental objectives are stymied by paucity of funds. To avert this challenge, Bago has to tow the path of Public Private Partnership.

As Bago embarks on this journey, he should continue to remember that the well-being of the citizens and their economic empowerment is the surest way to achieving sustainable development since a society cannot develop without developed citizens who are the drivers of production and industrialisation.

Awaal Gata is a journalist and public affairs analyst

CISLAC recommends pro-poor economic agenda for incoming administration

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre, CISLAC, has established that it is the goal of any rational government to improve the living conditions of its populace through appropriate and effective macro-economic policies.

CISLAC's Executive Director, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, said this on Tuesday at a media interactive session on the margins of the ongoing 2023 Spring meetings of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) in Washington DC, USA.

He addressed the economic crisis in Nigeria and recommended a robust agenda for the incoming administration.

He argued that good policies should be technically sound, widely acceptable, and administratively feasible to achieve and sustain its macro-economic objectives.

“Nigeria, like many developing economies, has however suffered huge but reconcilable fiscal, monetary, and trade deficits. If only it acts now...”

He added that fiscal, monetary, and trade policies in Nigeria are characterised by profligacy, delayed implementation of key reforms, and poor financial framework strengthened by mismanagement of monumental oil revenue, all pose a threat to the macro-economic stability of the country.

According to Mr. Rafsanjani, the Nigerian economy rebounded after the difficult years of COVID-19, the recovery has wrought more hardship on Nigerians, and socio-economic conditions in Nigeria have been on a steady decline ever since.

He then advised the incoming administration to spark conversations around the right economic policy choices as doing that would have a significant impact on the country’s economic profile.

“We hope to review these policies and plans with respect to their short and long-term objectives for sustainable growth and development; and the stabilization of the economy in response to sudden and unpredictable economic shocks using key indicators of economic performance like inflation as a measure of price stability, unemployment, Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as a measure of economic growth and import and export as a measure of balance of payments,” he said.

Among the economic frameworks suggested by the Director are: Economic Sustainability Plan (ESP), which was noted to have helped Nigeria exit recession in record time with more than 5 percent growth in the economy, saved over one million jobs, and forestalled the closure of over 150,000 small businesses hit by COVID-19; and National Development Plan (NDP) (2021-2025) which was expected to succeed the Nigeria Vision 20:2020 Economic Transformation Blueprint.

Fiscal Profile, Revenue Mobilization, Unsustainable Debts, Monetary Policy Inconsistencies are also part of the economic frameworks suggested by Mr. Rafsanjani.

He, therefore made recommendations for revitalising the economy, adding that the Nigerian economy must at least grow at 7-8 per cent a year for five to ten years based on an investment-led strategy to avoid the possibility of multi-dimensional poverty, debt, and insecurity consuming the country in the next decade.

“The incoming government needs to sustain strategic policies with the potential of driving economic growth and development,” he emphasized.

He added that there is a need for the incoming government to restructure the tax system, enlarge the tax base, and eliminate harmful tax expenditures (waivers, reduced rates, special deductions, and tax credits).

Among other recommendations made were: Boost of Government revenue generation and improve intertemporal budget constraints; Reduction in reliance on borrowings from the international capital market or commercial loans; Strengthening of the Foreign Exchange Policy; Improvement in public borrowing transparency and accountability; Establishment of an independent committee that comprises Civil Society representatives; Adherence strictly to regulatory and legal frameworks; Effective implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act; drive investment in the agricultural sector; uring, starting with improving the business climate and macroeconomic stability; strengthening ease of doing business and block leakages for corruption.

Mr. Rafsanjani then called on Nigerians around the world to join their voices in calling on the incoming government for the sincerity of purpose in the prioritization of planning, formulation, and implementation of policies and programmes that would drive inclusive and sustainable growth and development for Nigeria, Africa, and the World by extension.

Saliu Mustapha dissociates self from trending N5,000 Ramadan gift scam

The Senator-Elect for Kwara Central, Mallam Saliu Mustapha, has categorically denied possessing the fraudulent online scheme for the distribution of N5,000 Ramadan gifts to unsuspecting Kwarans.

In a statement, Saliu Mustapha’s media office said that the alleged scheme labelled “N5,000 Sen. Soliu Mustapha Ramadan Gift” is operated by unknown fraudsters who could not even spell the candidate’s name correctly.

The statement reads, “According to information at our disposal, the fraudsters behind the scheme asked unsuspecting members to apply for a token from Mallam Saliu Mustapha as Ramadan gift.

“The media office of the Senator-elect refutes the alleged scheme and any other claims made in this manner.

“The media office also wishes to inform the public that the official social media accounts of the Senator-elect continue to serve as the most dependable and authentic sources of information from his office:

Senator-Elect Saliu Mustapha’s social media handles remain as follows:

Blog: www.saliumustaphafoundation.org/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/saliumustapha

Twitter: www.twitter.com/realmallamsaliu

Instagram: www.instagram.com/mallamsaliumustapha_/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mustaphasaliu5185

The statement urged the public to disregard any communication that did not originate from any of the official social media account and to avoid participating in any online scheme intended to defraud innocent citizens.

'Corruption cases levelled against the defence sector swept under the carpet'

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Center, CISLAC, and Transparency International, TI, have called for more accountability and transparency in the country's defence and security sector.

The groups made the call, during a CSO and Media dialogue, in Enugu, on Wednesday.

According to the groups, various high-profile corruption cases levelled against the defence and security sector are swept under the carpet without public accountability.

The groups also observed that personnel, political, operational, procurement and financial related corruption in the defence sector has resulted in low operational effectiveness, poor credibility and unchecked mismanagement.

The group said “While Defence and Security sector has adopted various reforms in the recent past to enhance its integrity and improve its effectiveness, the unchecked culture of exceptionalism has hitherto impacted negatively on the transparency of the sector.

“Over the years, various high-profile corruption cases levelled against the Defence and Security sector are swept under the carpet without public accountability, primarily to protect political interest.

“Delayed review of laws in Defence procurement process has contributed to the lapses that encourage corruption in Nigerian Defence and security sector.”

Speaking on the role of civilians in defence accountability, the groups explained that civilian oversight is needed as it will help checkmate excessive military operations, adding that while weak civilian oversight paves way for poor accountability and indiscipline within the sector, an active civilian oversight will improve surveillance for more efficiency.

The group said that civilian involvement in defence and security has proven to be effective in the fight against insurgency.

“Within the democratic context, civilian oversight is paramount to check against excesses in military operations, while upholding democratic principles and values.

“Active civilian oversight improves surveillance and continued observation of Defence and Security sector for more institutional and operational efficiency.”

“Involvement of Civilian body like Civilian Joint Task Force has proven successful in combating insurgency in Nigeria,” the group said.

Speakership: Ex-lawmaker Kwande canvasses support for Idris Wase

A former House of Representatives member who represented Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency, Suleiman Yahaya-Kwande, has canvassed support for the candidature of Deputy Speaker Idris Wase for the Speakership of the 10th Assembly.

Mr Kwande, in a statement he personally signed on Thursday in Abuja, stressed that Mr Wase deserves to be the next Speaker of the green chamber, “looking at the quantum of experience he has gathered over time”.

He said: “For me personally if APC as a party and indeed House will deem it fit to zone the speakership to North Central, I will recommend Rt. Hon. Idris Wase to be the next speaker of the Honorable House looking at the quantum of experience he has gathered over time, his leadership qualities and his contribution to the growth and development of politics, democracy and governance in the country and beyond.

“It is my hope that the party and equally the House in its wisdom will consider and also utilize the potential in Rt. Hon. Idris Maje Wase with the assurance that he will not let the nation down.”

The former lawmaker recalled that the arrangements in Nigeria's politics were zoning of key leadership position across the country in fairness of representation and carrying every zone along over time has significantly brought equal participation in governance.

“The need to replicate same gesture in this present democratic situation as the nation in couple of months’ transit to a new government, zones that deserves certain political position should without any form of sentiment be considered as that is very important in the promotion of equity, fairness and Justice in Nigeria's democracy,” Mr Kwande noted.

According to him, the 10th Assembly speakership of the green chamber in the spirit of fairness, needs to be zoned to the appropriate and deserving zone.

“Justifying above point, the need to zone the speakership of the House of Representative to the North Central will bring a balance in Nigeria's democracy, looking at the history of the various zones that have enjoyed and benefited in the zoning formula since the inception of democratic government in Nigeria.

“The North Central only enjoyed the seat of speakership only for just Three Months by Hon. Chaha Biam, during the administration of President Shehu Shagari, ever since the zone have not enjoyed the privilege gesture of zoning the seat to the zone.

“Zoning the speakership to North Central is not enough to provide good governance, but bringing on board individual with the pedigree and experience to pilot the affairs of the house and complement in facilitating good governance in the country is sacrosanct.

“North Central is blessed with individuals with such attributes but the best among the best is what Nigerians are clamouring for,” he concluded.

INDIGENESHIP VERSUS RESIDENCY: Nigeria’s emerging political realities

By Progress Godfrey

A lot has been said already about the just-concluded 2023 Presidential and the Governorship Elections. However, beyond the rhythmic harmony about religion, ethnicity and party affiliation which has been sung since the pre- and post-party primaries, there are salient and existential issues that the political establishment must take cognizance of, in the post-election season.

At the crux of such issues is the negligence of the yearnings of the electorate by our leaders, which prepared the grounds and provided a viral atmosphere for the rise of the Obi/Datti wave, a wave that swept across many traditional strongholds of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the All Progressives Congress (APC). To set the record straight, I would like to state that this piece is not in any way intended to push for an Ndigbo agenda, but to draw the attention of the political class to lessons that must be learnt, as we push for a better Nigeria.

The campaign season saw a drastic paradigm shift - it showed just how tired the people are of the rhetoric of merely campaigning to win elections, and it exposed the existing disconnect between government and the governed. This was evident with the strides of Mr Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP). Indeed, only misguided Nigerians will dismiss the giant strides of Obi, as has never been seen, at least since Nigeria adopted the democratic system of government in 1999.

For too long, we have had leaders who won elections with several campaign promises that were jettisoned the moment they (the leaders) were declared winners, only for them to resurface with another set of empty promises four years later.

My first instance is Lagos, the epicentre of the indigene versus residents debacle, where the greatest surprise ensued with battles and counter-battles of ownership. It remains an error for anybody to attribute the reelection victory of the incumbent governor, Babjide Sanwo-Olu to ownership of Lagos. Sanwo-Olu could not have owned Lagos more than Nigeria's President-Elect and former governor of Lagos state, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who lost Lagos to Obi in the presidential election.

Tinubu's loss rather exposed the lapses in the leadership style in Lagos that didn't consider the legitimate concerns of non-indigenous residents enough. It is widely believed that the ruling class in Lagos didn't make enough efforts to curtail the excesses of the ‘Agberos’; to the utmost chagrin of large sections of residents. This, and many similar unattended concerns paved the way for the Obi/Datti wave to prevail. It would suffice to say that the lessons from the presidential elections opened Sanwo-Olu's eyes, because that remains the only rationale behind his unusual frequency of social media engagement. He suddenly engaged Lagosians, with a keen show of attention to non-indigenous residents in his last campaign endeavours before the March 18 governorship election.

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) was not left out; in the 2019 general election, the major opposition party, PDP, swept through all nooks and crannies. At the time, we saw how PDP's presidential flag-bearer, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, defeated the incumbent Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari of the APC, in the FCT; a show of just how much change the people needed from the perceived failure of the government. Even though President Buhari had his scorecard in infrastructure among a few other areas, residents of the FCT knew better what they deserved.

Similarly, PDP's shine extended to winning all three seats in the National Assembly - Philips Tanimu Aduda won the election for Senate; Hassan Sokodabo Usman and Micah Yohanna Jiba also clinched their bids for the House of Representatives seats, it was a sweet victory. But as usual, after winning, our politicians abruptly become unreachable, they forget that election victory only lasts for four years. They pay lip service to the people's needs, only to come back for campaign during another election season. Aren't the people tired?

It should have been an easy feat for the PDP to maintain its stronghold on the FCT, but its leaders failed to pay due attention to the residents versus Indigenes dynamics staring them in the face. This proved their undoing. Obi's campaign, which many have described as unprecedented, came like a hurricane, introducing an "Obi effect" that gave LP victory in the FCT in both Presidency, Senate and Reps. Could Obi have won the hearts of FCT residents by mere campaign strategy? The glaring answer is no. Against the backdrop of ethnicity, religion and partisan politics, residents of the FCT saw hope, they saw a platform which connected with the needs of the people.

The APC didn’t fare much better. The present ‘Governor’ of the FCT has earned his criticisms by his sheer aloofness and apathy, leaving his Minister of State, Ramatu Aliyu with no back to stand on. Despite her best efforts, the APC barely wrestled one out of the two Reps seats, else, Obi, a man with a campaign tagline "we no dey give shishi" would have floored the establishment with almost a top-to-bottom win. It is a clear-cut display of the people's will against what the PDP thought was a routine exercise.

Going down South, to Abia, the outcome of the governorship poll could be foreseen before it was officially announced; the people were tired and needed a shift. What could the incumbent governor, Okezie Ikpeazu of the PDP, tell anybody in Abia to make them vote for his ex-chief of staff and governorship candidate of the PDP, Okey Ahaiwe as governor?

Ikpeazu may have wished for party continuity through Ahaiwe, but his wishful thinking could not have put a smile on the faces of the people he governed for eight years, only a thorough delivery of good governance could have done that. Alex Otti of the LP won by a wide margin, nearly doubling Ahaiwe's votes. Again, it shows how deeply neglected the needs of Abians were for eight years.

Not far-fetched was Rivers State, whereby in the runup to the governorship election, we saw how a former governor and ex-Minister of Transportation Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi, promised non-indigenes in the state heaven on earth, all in a bid to secure the win for his party man, the APC candidate in the state, Tonye Cole. Perhaps, Amaechi must have learnt his lessons from the bold statement made in Rivers during the presidential election - the poll reflected the fact that residents also constitute the voter register of every polling unit, not just indigenes.

In the same vein, the incumbent governor, Nyesom Wike romanced the Igbos in several engagements, canvassing for votes for his anointed candidate, Siminialaye Fubara who eventually won. The first question that comes to mind is: did they just realise that the politics of indigeneship is a politics of failure? If Wike spent his eight years in office, recognising that not only indigenes make up the voters of a state, clearly, he wouldn't have to wait until campaign time to identify with either the Igbos or other residents in the state. I bet the presidential election proved a point to Wike; that while the indigenes have their rights to the dividends of democracy, every other resident and tax-payer in the state deserved to be provided for alike.

Kaura federal constituency in Kaduna State was popular for producing a reps candidate from the LP, Mr Donatus Mathew, who was said to have been an "Okada rider" before the February 25 presidential and national assembly election that gave him victory over the incumbent reps member and candidate of the PDP, Hon Gideon Lucas Gwani, who came second. How could an Okada rider defeat an incumbent reps member if his incumbency made lives any easier for his constituents?

Now that Nigeria has rounded up its 2023 general elections and leaders have emerged from various ethnicities, tribes and religions, in my submission, I must stress the need to govern for all. Our leaders must now, more than ever, put the needs of the people at the forefront of their plans, devoid of undue emphasis on indigeneship. Their olive branches must be extended, such that it benefits all.

Clearly, the consciousness of the electorate has risen exponentially and must be taken seriously. Let's hope the right lessons have been learnt.

Open letter to the people of Ilorin South State Constituency, by Hajiya Maryam Yusuf Aladi Hon. Member-elect, Kwara State House of Assembly

My dear constituents,

I must say to you the good people of Ilorin South State Constituency that it is a privilege to have been elected to represent you in the Kwara State House of Assembly.

A privilege I believe will up until this point in time, through my days drawing breath, be the peak challenge I have ever faced up until now. That is what the mandate of representing the people of Ilorin South state constituency has rested upon my shoulders. A challenge gloriously novel as it is noble to my person.

As the first of my gender to be handed the baton of this most exalted responsibility of representing the people of Ilorin South State constituency, I must say that I understand that I have to deliver as no representative of this constituency has ever delivered.

My dear constituents, I do not at all separate by partisan basis the potential beneficiaries of what will by the grace of God be an excellent representation. I am now your voice in the state parliament and I have no sentimental grudge against any people, community, or group who might not have voted for me. We are all one. I represent you all.

In my manifesto and while I campaigned I outlined numerous plans as well as promises to you all. The time for talking is now over and it is time to do. I thank you all for the trust placed in me, and by the grace of the almighty God, I will not fail you. Together we shall all thrive, and Ilorin South State Constituency and it’s people will flourish.

Most obliged
Hajiya Maryam Yusuf Aladi
Member-elect, Ilorin South State Constituency
Kwara State house of Assembly

Saliu Mustapha mourns former Kwara Grand Khadi, Justice AbdulMuttalib Ambali

The Senator-Elect for Kwara Central, Mallam Saliu Mustapha has expressed grief over the death of former Grand Khadi of Kwara State and elder statesman, Justice AbdulMuttalib Ahmad Ambali (retd) who died in the early hours of Thursday in Ilorin at the age of 83.

According to a statement he personally signed, Mallam Mustapha, who is also the Turaki of Ilorin, commiserated with the good people of Ilorin Emirate over the great loss.

He said the late jurist and Islamic scholar was a highly respected statesman and illustrious son of Kwara State who contributed tremendously to the growth of the justice system in Nigeria.

The Senator-Elect condoled with the family members and associates of the deceased as well as the good people of Kwara State, noting that the "late Justice was a man of sterling virtues who did his job with the fear of God and dispensed justice impartially.

“The late retired grand Khadi lived a humble and peaceful life, and left behind great legacies that will continue to benefit people.

“May the Almighty Allah forgive the soul of the deceased and grant his family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” he prayed.

Guber polls: We did not call for cancelation of election in Kano, other states - CSOs

Civil Society Organizations, CSOs, have denied allegations of calling for the cancellation of the March 18 Governorship elections in Kano State and other parts of the country.

Debunking the allegation, Chairman of the Transition Monitoring Group and Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Center, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, and the Convener of the Kano State Civil Society Election Situation Room, Ibrahim Waiya, in a joint press conference on Saturday, said they have not made such calls, describing it "as an unscrupulous allegation from a faceless group".

According to them, as CSOs involved in  democratic advocacy, they will not be dragged into any political war by any politically sponsored group, adding that such a false news at this time was not only worrisome, but capable of stirring up crisis in the country.

The statement said “For obvious selfish and politically motivated reasons, some faceless groups in conjunction with some willing elements in the media have cooked up fake stories about civil society organisations calling for cancelation of the governorship election in Kano state and other parts of the country.

“The spread of this fictitious and malicious news, in a time when the political space in Nigeria is already heated up is not only worrisome but also has the potential to further overheat the polity.

“As champions of democracy, we will not allow sneer-campaigners and people with politically motivated reasons drag credible civil society organisations in Kano State and indeed, in Nigeria at large into political wars with political parties.”

The CSOs further charged the general public to disregard such report, as it did not come from any of them, adding that media houses should be wary of political groups masquerading as Civil Society Organizations.

“We call on the public to disregard in totality these wild reports making rounds and using the names of credible organisations and called for the cancelation of the governorship election in Kano State.

“We assure the public that we have never at any time issued such statements nor been a party to such conclusions. We strongly believe in democratic approaches to settling elections disputes and encourage all who are not satisfied with the process to seek redress in the court of law.

“We urge the media to filter credible civil society groups from faceless, politically sponsored groups who hide under the names of credible organisations to concoct fake stories that suit their narratives.

“We implore the media to desist from availing such unscrupulous groups the platform to propagate their disruptive, misleading, and fake stories.

“We warn sternly against the illegal use of our names spin narratives that are capable of further heating up the polity and creating chaos in Kano State and in Nigeria.

“Any further misuse of our names in this direction will be met by litigation,” the CSOs added.

CISLAC Calls for Structural Reforms in Defence Sector to Tackle Human Rights Abuses

It has become necessary for the Nigerian security sector, as a reflection of the country, to undergo progressive reforms that will protect the domestic reputation of the country, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre has said.

One of those reforms, the organization stated, is the deployment of the military in response to civil-related matters. “[This] rule of engagement has continued to widen the gap in military-civilian relations while aggravating unwary agitations that give rise to armed groups across the country.”

At a workshop on Thursday in Bauchi designed to offer solutions to various security challenges, CISLAC criticized the National Assembly's lack of proper legislative oversight as one of many reasons why the federal government continues to use military operations and interventions without regard for due process.

According to Executive director Auwal Rafsanjani, the just-completed general elections have exposed widespread financial mismanagement and poor accountability in the security sector.

“The unattended opaque nature of investment by Defence institutions remains a major setback to the effort at ensuring transparency and accountability in Defence and Security spending,” he said.

In addition, CISLAC added that the department of defence and security has a very low representation of women and people with disabilities. The organization notices that men are frequently given preference during recruitment, promotion, and appointment processes.

Later in the day, in a different session, the dignitaries present at the dialogue explored potential solutions to the nation's pervasive problem of insecurity.

The gathering came to the conclusion that, in accordance with Section 14(2) of the 1999 Constitution, the continuing reports of kidnapping, banditry, insurgency, and community disputes reflect the failings of the federal government.

The groups noted that fundamental issues which pose a danger to the nation’s internal security include the overlap of duties across multiple security agencies and the failure to properly coordinate operations between overlapping agencies.

“Internal insecurity in Nigeria is necessitated by unattended challenges including lack of critical reforms, low morale and wages, weak incentives, and endemic corruption among others eroding personnel commitment to service,” read a statement released by CISLAC.

CISLAC has requested that the Nigerian government conduct a structural, operational, and process review of the Defence sector to rid the department of corrupt staff that may hamper the country's battle against insecurity.

The civil organization has also urged the government to strengthen its close supervision of the security industry in order to punish misuse of power and discourage unhealthy rivalry between competing security agencies.

“Adequate support to oversight institutions to compel cooperation by security agencies with oversight activities and processes, and ensure full implementation of various laws and policies guiding financial and operational activities of security agencies,” the statement continued.

According to CISLAC, these changes will build a strong resistance to influences inside the sector and lessen the frequency of abuse.

The statement, which was signed by CISLAC, Heal Disability Initiative, Green Environment Support for Peace Development Initiative, Asma'u Yahaya and Ali Usman Rambo, emphasized the crucial role that civil society organizations and the media can play in advancing reforms in the defence sector.

To prevent cases from being covered up, civil societies are urged to actively follow up on high-profile abuse and corruption allegations in the security sector.

The groups hope that the media can help strengthen advocacy for “gender-mainstreaming in the Defence sector to demonstrate respect for inclusion, social justice and democratic control.”

TMG Condemns Electoral Violence, Other Malfeasance in 2023 Poll

The Transition Monitoring Group (TMG) has condemned the violence, vote buying and vote padding exhibited in the just concluded 2023 general elections.

According to the group, the aforementioned malpractices pose a great threat to the electoral body and the democratic reign by the country.

This was made known in a press statement, signed by the Chairman of the Transition Monitoring Group (TMG) who also doubles as the Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), Comrade Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani).

The statement highlighted the major setbacks faced with the success of the 2023 Gubernatorial and State House of Assembly Elections across the Geo-Political zones in Nigeria.

Part of the highlighted setbacks are, "Suppression of Voters, Vote Trading, Generalised Violence and Vote Padding, a major pointer to the fall of Democracy in Nigeria".

With the huge turnout of violence which has skyrocketed in some major parts of the state which has its headquarters in the South Western part of the country, Lagos, Nigeria leading to tribal fight between the Yoruba Race and Igbo Race. The electoral violence had threatened the state of Democracy in the country.

Parts of the statement reads, "The Transition Monitoring Group (TMG) as a foremost election observation group in Nigeria deployed 768 roving observers across 768 Local Government Areas in the country to observe the 18 March gubernatorial and houses of assembly elections. It also set up a central data centre to collect and analyze data observed from the field. TMG conducted its activities in compliance with the guidelines provided by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), in collaboration with other domestic and international observers."

TMG notes improvements by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) around logistics delivery and functionality of the BVAS. However, the same cannot be said on election day security as it happened to be one of the most violence ridden elections in its recent history.

The statement further reads: "In the build up to the elections, there were reports of voters’ suppression and intimidation with threats of consequences as issued by well-known loyalists of some highly ranked politicians in the country. The failure of the security operatives to apprehend and prosecute issuant of such threats, further emboldened them to unleash mayhem on citizens on election day.

"The gubernatorial elections were further challenged by incidents of voter apathy in many states across the country following diminished confidence in the electoral umpire as a result of the outcome of the presidential election. This becomes a major drawback on the nation’s electoral process considering the increasing spate of voter education in the country."

Furthermore, TMG observed a sharp departure from the presidential election where identity mobilisation of voters along religious and ethnic lines were visibly noted. However, voting patterns in the gubernatorial polls as observed in Kaduna, Cross River, Taraba, Delta, Adamawa and a host of other states were free from ethno-religious identity considerations. This goes to show that electoral campaigns and voter mobilization in Nigeria can be devoid of these elements.

More specifically, TMG’s observation of the elections across the country spotlighted the issues of deployment of logistics, functionality of the BVAS and IReV system, electoral security and vote buying.

The civil society election observation group dispatched 768 roaming observers to 768 local government areas in the nation to monitor the gubernatorial and house of assembly elections on March 18. It also built up a central data centre to examine the data acquired from the field.

The findings show that the March 18 governorship elections were the most violent in recent memory.

Baze University gets full accreditation in Architecture, Medical Lab Sciences, others

Baze University Abuja has secured National Universities Commission’s full accreditation for five academic programmes.

This is contained in a statement by Dr Mani Ibrahim, the Registrar of the University on Monday in Abuja.

Dr Mani said that the accreditation was conveyed to the institution in a letter signed by NUC’s Deputy Director (Programme Accreditation) Arc. S.S. Ikani, for the Executive Secretary.

According to him, the accredited courses include Bachelors of Science in Architecture, Medical Laboratory Science as well as Masters in Accounting, Business Administration and Business Management.

“The new accreditation status is conferring a validity till 2028 on the five courses, cutting across two faculties of the university.

“The letter explained that the accreditation of already approved academic programmes was organised by NUC in Baze University, Abuja in November/December, 2022,” Dr Mani said.

Saliu Mustapha congratulates Gov. Abdulrazaq on electoral victory

The Senator-elect for Kwara Central, Mallam Saliu Mustapha, has congratulated Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq on his victory at the March 18 governorship election.

In a statement signed on Monday, Mr Mustapha, who is the Turaki of Ilorin, said the victory is well-deserved especially on the strength of his administration's achievements in the last four years.

According to him, the electorate made an empathetic statement at the polls letting the governor win by a wide electoral margin.

Mr Mustapha noted that electoral victory reflects the general mood of Kwarans going into the elections.

He said: “We're not surprised. We anticipated it. We campaigned on the superiority of his candidacy as an uncommon liberator.

“We canvassed for votes on the strength of this administration's achievements across sectors, not on the power of incumbency which was the trademark of past administrations.

“Under his firm, focused and forthright leadership, AbdulRazaq’s administration has achieved much under the cover of silence, as action speaks for itself.

“I also congratulate the party chairman, excos, stakeholders, and members for our resounding success at the 2023 General elections.

“As we continue on this path of inclusive growth, may Almighty Allah continue to fortify Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq with the wisdom and foresight to lead us well,” the statement added.

Kwara politics and ward-to-ward campaign – A Personal Experience, By Gidado Yushau Shuaib

Despite having roots from Ilorin Emirate, travelling through the 52 wards of Kwara Central was never on my bucket list. However, I started my 2023 embarking on that journey, experiencing the saying, “the best journeys are the unplanned ones.” so, I am glad I did.

As the build-up for political campaigning started, I was made the Head of Media team for Mallam Saliu Mustapha’s candidacy for Kwara Central Senatorial District under the All-Progressives Congress (APC).

My duty was to document and publicize his campaign, manifesto and vision for the people of the Senatorial District.

Being a practicing journalist, challenges faced in different parts of Nigeria were no news to me. However, touring the nook and crannies of the senatorial district, the largest in the state, gave me a new perspective much more than any news report could have.

Starting from Asa, we had the opportunity of visiting the 52 wards on the campaign trail. On this journey I experienced the people in a different light while simultaneously gaining first-hand experience which gave me a change of perspective on politics, development and social justice in Nigeria.

It is not tiding that the aim of a campaign is to register the candidate in the hearts of the people. Our journey was no different, we left our homes with the intention of achieving the aim of registering the then Senatorial candidate, Saliu Mustapha in the hearts of the people. Besides the aim, we had the objective of gathering information from locals on matters that influence their lives, this is to familiarise our candidate more on the plight of the people.

We gradually made our way across the senatorial district of four local governments — Asa, Ilorin West, Ilorin South, and Ilorin East and we were astonished by encounters with individuals of various social groups, economic brackets, faiths and ages.

It epitomises Mallam Mustapha’s pursuit of inclusion: “Kwarans will enjoy more inclusiveness in governance and policy that will enhance effective implementation of more sustainable empowerment programmes,” he promised during the tour of Asa local government.

For a region that has leaders representing them in different government capacities, realities on ground were far from appealing. One of the first things that struck me during our trip was the seeming lack of government presence in some of the wards we visited. I saw first-hand their struggle for a better life. Some villages in the region lack even the most basic social amenities like healthcare facilities for the sick or an education system for the ever growing population.

When Mallam Mustapha poured out his ambition and aspiration for the communities, there was notable delight on the faces of the populace akin to those associated with a family receiving the news of the birth of a baby. The hope of the people was rekindled This was obvious from the loud chants the people rained for every promise he made.

In Asa, Mallam Mustapha communicated his intent to cultivate the untapped agricultural potential of the community. Asa is home for agricultural products like rice, maize, cassava and vegetables. “The communities we visited yearn for more federal presence and zonal constituency projects to complement the efforts of the current state government,” he mentioned.

We witnessed the damage caused by thuggery and other sorts of violence. This is not far from the fact that any community that lacks basic human needs resort to violence and other morally challenged ways to survive such as the jungle rule of biological beings – survival of the fittest. It was perplexing to see youth living at the expense of their kinsmen for the reason that it was the only perceived viable source of income.

Mallam Mustapha recognised this need to lead development schemes among Kwara’s young population when he said, “my journey to the 10th senate is further enriched by the meaningful conversations I had with the younger generations, even those who have not yet attained voting age but are as politically aware as the older generation.”

Amazingly, it appears that many traditional rulers regard boreholes and uncompleted worship centres as their community’s pressing needs. These were unexpected especially after seeing dilapidated school structures, erratic electricity and ineffective primary health care systems littered across the district.

Though their hopes might have been dashed from recurring and unfulfilled campaign promises hence, they talk only about what they feel is within reach and deem imperative; boreholes and mosques. I would say it is time for locals to recognise the need for more comprehensive social amenities that may enhance the quality of their lives and those of their children.

While political representatives are responsible for addressing the problems of the communities they serve, long-term development is only achievable when private businesses contribute to the construction of sustainable social amenities in the areas in which they operate, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) it is called.

The Fulani and other minority communities were also one of our stops. They suffered the same fate as the majority (lack of basic amenities) and cried out for intervention of necessary authority. It is crucial that the government take charge of ensuring the welfare of all citizens irrespective of tribe and religion.

The agenda of local governments autonomy has been pushed in the Nigerian government sphere for a while now. Following our visit to the wards, I couldn’t agree more. The local government authorities are more in touch with the general public and it was evident that they lack control. Therefore, they are unable to meet the needs of the people. Higher authority should solve this puzzle by passing into law a legislation that gives local governments greater power than the one they currently wield.

On a more general note, I applaud the administration of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq who oversaw the development of local roads, prompt payment of salaries, refurbishment of schools and hospitals among others but a tree can’t make a forest. Despite best efforts, more has to be done in terms of infrastructural developments and job creations to increase the standard of living of Kwarans.

Mallam Saliu Mustapha emerging as Kwara Central’s Senator-elect is a sign of hope for the people of Kwara Central. Democracy is government of the people, for the people and by the people, therefore, as someone who is passionate about social justice, it was encouraging to see Kwara Central’s Senator-elect show genuine concern for the quality of life of the people in the district. The concern is an indicator of the yardstick he will use to govern the people.

As a son of the soil, this journey has left me intrigued, educated and passionate. My interactions with the locals and their traditional rulers have improved my grasp of our democracy at the grassroots and given me useful political skills in campaign planning and branding. I was so amazed how the traditional rulers, the youth leaders and the people poured encomiums on the humility, simplicity and kindness of Mallam Saliu Mustapha.

It was therefore not surprising when on the election day the electorates massively voted Mallam Saliu Mustapha to emerge the Senator-elect for Kwara Central. He secured 109,823 to defeat his close rival and former Youth and Sports Minister, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi who got 69,202 votes.

As I recall the tour, the lovely people, beautiful landscapes and the great potentials of not only the senatorial district but Kwara State, I realise that through party politics the dreams of the people can be actualised. Probably, someday I can also join politics.

Gidado Yushau Shuaib, a media and communications specialist, is the convener of the Campus Journalism Awards.

TMG to INEC: Redeem your image by conducting credible March 18 elections

The Transition Monitoring Group, TMG, has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission, to use the Saturday Governorship and State Assembly elections to redeem its image by conducting credible elections across the country.

Chairman of the Group, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, in a statement said the electoral body should ensure smooth distribution of election materials, as well as working BVAS machines and also immediate upload of result on IReV portal.

He said “Once again, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is promising a smooth electioneering process.

“INEC has been granted judicial leeway to reconfigure the Bimodal Voters Accreditation System (BVAS) device, and promised to use the device judiciously to deliver its mandate having learnt from the shortcomings of the 25th February 2023 elections.

“INEC is also promising to ensure that the INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal will deliver real time results. Moreover, it has noted the hiccups associated with the distribution of electoral materials on the day of the election and promised that the gubernatorial and State assemblies’ elections will be a different ball game.

“While TMG commends these promises, it urges INEC to live up to its words this time around as TMG maintains that its performance in this regard in the Presidential Election was abysmal.

“TMG believes that delayed commencement of voting as a result of the late arrival of INEC officials and incomplete setting up of polling units should not be part of the 18th March 2023 story. Furthermore, the display of ballot papers by highly placed individuals as seen in the last elections should be discouraged.”

TMG also called on security agencies to work with INEC to ensure that security issues witnessed during last election does not repeat, adding that security agencies should be more effective in discharging their duties in the forthcoming elections.

Rafsanjani who further urged Nigerians to come out and vote, said INEC must adhere strictly to the electoral act, adding that electoral offenders must be punished in line with laws.

“As an aftermath of the 25th February 2023 election, TMG is observing different actions, comments and inactions of those directly or indirectly involved in the elections such as political parties, their candidates and their supporters. In some states, citizens are being threatened on their perceived choice to exercise their franchise overtly and covertly.

“In states such as Lagos, Abia, Bauchi, Kano and Rivers states for instance, citizens are being threatened, intimidated and harassed on the perception of supporting political opponents. Therefore, security agencies are urged to up their game and support INEC, election observers and other law abiding citizens to ensure that hoodlums and political thugs do not have their way to disenfranchise citizens,” Rafsanjani said.

He continued “TMG commends the professionalism displayed by the security agencies in the last Presidential election and urges security agencies including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission officials, to double their efforts aimed at maintaining peace and in reducing the incidence of vote trading.”

“The Transition Monitoring Group continues to commend the enthusiasm demonstrated by the Nigerian citizens and commend their good conduct and orderly behaviour in the 25th February 2023 elections.

“TMG has carried out sensitisation and awareness creation rallies in the states urging electorates to shun apathy and come out again enmasse to cast and defend their votes through all legal and peaceful means.

“There must be strict adherence to the Electoral Act 2022 by everyone involved in the electioneering process.

"Electoral offenders of any kind must be punished under the laws of the country to dissuade others from perpetrating electoral offences in Nigeria.”

TMG to INEC: Redeem your image by conducting credible March 18 elections

The Transition Monitoring Group, TMG, has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission, to use the Saturday Governorship and State Assembly elections to redeem its image by conducting credible elections across the country.

Chairman of the Group, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, in a statement said the electoral body should ensure smooth distribution of election materials, as well as working BVAS machines and also immediate upload of result on IReV portal.

He said “Once again, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is promising a smooth electioneering process.

“INEC has been granted judicial leeway to reconfigure the Bimodal Voters Accreditation System (BVAS) device, and promised to use the device judiciously to deliver its mandate having learnt from the shortcomings of the 25th February 2023 elections.

“INEC is also promising to ensure that the INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal will deliver real time results. Moreover, it has noted the hiccups associated with the distribution of electoral materials on the day of the election and promised that the gubernatorial and State assemblies’ elections will be a different ball game.

“While TMG commends these promises, it urges INEC to live up to its words this time around as TMG maintains that its performance in this regard in the Presidential Election was abysmal.

“TMG believes that delayed commencement of voting as a result of the late arrival of INEC officials and incomplete setting up of polling units should not be part of the 18th March 2023 story. Furthermore, the display of ballot papers by highly placed individuals as seen in the last elections should be discouraged.”

TMG also called on security agencies to work with INEC to ensure that security issues witnessed during last election does not repeat, adding that security agencies should be more effective in discharging their duties in the forthcoming elections.

Rafsanjani who further urged Nigerians to come out and vote, said INEC must adhere strictly to the electoral act, adding that electoral offenders must be punished in line with laws.

“As an aftermath of the 25th February 2023 election, TMG is observing different actions, comments and inactions of those directly or indirectly involved in the elections such as political parties, their candidates and their supporters. In some states, citizens are being threatened on their perceived choice to exercise their franchise overtly and covertly.

“In states such as Lagos, Abia, Bauchi, Kano and Rivers states for instance, citizens are being threatened, intimidated and harassed on the perception of supporting political opponents. Therefore, security agencies are urged to up their game and support INEC, election observers and other law abiding citizens to ensure that hoodlums and political thugs do not have their way to disenfranchise citizens,” Rafsanjani said.

He continued “TMG commends the professionalism displayed by the security agencies in the last Presidential election and urges security agencies including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission officials, to double their efforts aimed at maintaining peace and in reducing the incidence of vote trading.”

“The Transition Monitoring Group continues to commend the enthusiasm demonstrated by the Nigerian citizens and commend their good conduct and orderly behaviour in the 25th February 2023 elections.

“TMG has carried out sensitisation and awareness creation rallies in the states urging electorates to shun apathy and come out again enmasse to cast and defend their votes through all legal and peaceful means.

“There must be strict adherence to the Electoral Act 2022 by everyone involved in the electioneering process.

"Electoral offenders of any kind must be punished under the laws of the country to dissuade others from perpetrating electoral offences in Nigeria.”

Mahmood Yakubu and the burden of a nation, by Jibrin Baba Ndace

Elections are the foundation of democracy. This is because they provide citizens the opportunity to choose those that will steer the ship of the state for a period of time. Elections empower citizens to choose their leaders at all levels.

Nigerians on Saturday, February 25, went to the polls to elect their president, 109 senators and 350 members of the House of Representatives. They will, this Saturday (March 11), go to the polls again to elect governors and members of State Houses of Assembly.

The most important agency as far as elections are concerned in Nigeria is the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Headed by an unassuming scholar of international repute, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, INEC works in collaboration with other government agencies, security agencies, civil society and nongovernmental organisations, the media and other stakeholders to ensure it delivers credible elections.

Since his appointment by President Muhammadu Buhari on 21 October 2015, to succeed Amina Zakari who was acting chairman, Prof Yakubu has been determined in ensuring that INEC conducts credible elections at state or federal levels.

To this end, INEC has, especially in the present democratic dispensation, designed ways and means to improve on the quality and credibility of elections in such a way that complaints are minimal and outcomes are in some way comparable to elections conducted in older democracies around the world.

Prof. Yakubu has brought professionalism, dynamism and innovations into election management in Nigeria. Principal among the innovations he has championed in order to ensure transparency and stop desperate politicians from denting the credibility of the process is the introduction of Bimodal Voters Accreditation System (BVAS).

The technology has been described by political parties, local and international elections stakeholders as a step in the right direction. They say it creates an enabling environment and a level-playing field for elections.

Over the years, the Card Reader (a machine previously used by INEC) has proved inadequate since it only validated the voter's card. BVAS on the other hand, validates both the card and the voter by utilizing two methods of identifying the voter; the thumbprints and facial biometrics. These two qualities are unique to the voter and no two individuals in the entire world share the same. In this way, a voter must be present to cast his or her vote since accreditation comes before voting. The results from a polling unit cannot therefore be higher than the number of voters accredited. In this way, the incidence of over-voting is totally eliminated and ghost voters and votes have been eliminated.

Recall that BVAS was first used during the governorship elections of Ekiti and Osun states in 2022. It was adjudged as one of the best innovations to Nigeria’s electoral process in recent times.

This has given hope to Nigerians and many believe that it has motivated Nigerians to register to vote in 2023 general elections with the expectation that with BVAS, their votes will count.

Aside from the BVAS, the commission also introduced the result viewing portal, IReV, to guarantee transparent accreditation and uploading of polling unit results. This technological masterpiece enables citizens to view results in real-time on Election Day.

Justifying the use of the two technologies, INEC chairman said, “As I have said repeatedly, the Commission’s allegiance is to Nigeria. Our loyalty is to Nigerians who want free, fair, credible and verifiable elections supported by technology, which guarantees transparent accreditation and upload of polling unit results for citizens to view in real-time on election day.

“It is for these reasons that the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) were introduced. There is no going back on the deployment of BVAS and IReV for the 2023 general election.

"Significantly, the biometric technology actually worked in the February 25 presidential and national assembly elections. It has eliminated multiple voter registrations. If your biometrics are not captured, you can no longer vote. These are improvements. Look at the figures from the states – we did not see the huge figures of voters that were out of proportion to the number of registered voters, as happened in previous elections".

To show that the elections were credible, it threw up major upsets. We saw big politicians lose in their strongholds. The first shocker was the Labour Party victory in the presidential election in Nigeria’s commercial capital, Lagos, which has never happened since 1999. The president-elect, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, regarded as the father of modern Lagos lost. This is the first time he has lost an election in Lagos since the return to democratic governance in 1999. Also, President Muhammadu Buhari lost his state, Kastina, to the candidate of the People's Democratic Party Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the Wazirin Adamawa.

Many incumbent governors lost their bid for seats in the Senate. Governor Darius Ishaku of Taraba State lost his Taraba South senatorial bid to APC’s David Jimkuta, Governor Ben Ayade lost Cross River North senatorial bid to incumbent Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe of the PDP, Governor Okezie Ikpeazu’s lost Abia South senatorial election to Enyinnaya Abaribe of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi lost Enugu North senatorial seat to the LP candidate, Okey Ezea, Governor Samuel Ortom lost Benue North West Senatorial District to APC's Titus Zam.

Other sitting governors who lost their senatorial ambitions include Simon Lalong of Plateau and Abubakar Bagudu of Kebbi states.
Opinion may be divided especially against the background of different parties who failed in their attempts to intimidate and get the INEC chairman work on their own terms. Nevertheless the commission has discharged itself creditably and restored confidence in the electoral process.

Politicians who cannot win elections through clean processes but rely on the old system to rig, can no longer be comfortable with the new system. The new tide is definitely against them.

On the whole and more importantly, the goal of technology was to enhance the quality and integrity of the elections and reduce electoral fraud. This was to a large extent achieved.

More so, Prof Yakubu must be commended for keeping his calm during the collation of results at the National Collation Centre, Abuja, when some anti-democratic forces wanted to stall the process and subsequent announcement of the winner.

He appropriately addressed the situation and restored order. At this point, we must pass a vote of confidence on the Chairman of INEC and his team for being worthy ambassadors of our nation
It is also obvious that there were attempts to compromise INEC IREV by cyber hackers. This was confirmed by the Managing Director of Galaxy Backbone who revealed that his agency blocked over 200 cyberattacks during the Presidential and National Assembly elections.

He said the attempt to hack INEC Server was based on the fact that Nigeria has weak broadband internet, and patchy connectivity. Some parts of Nigeria are still running on 3G network when some countries are already on 5G, some parts are not even connected to the internet. So, conducting elections in Nigeria by deploying technology is a complex exercise.

On the whole, despite the technical glitches experienced by INEC in uploading presidential election results to the IReV portal, it was a good outing for Prof. Mahmood and his team. They swam against the tide of cynicism and succeeded. They can only improve on the foundation that has been laid.

CISLAC Calls For Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) salutes Nigerian women who despite the double exploitation, discrimination, and segregation are still making positive contribution towards Socio-Economic and political development in Nigeria.

Regrettably, the National Assembly constitutional amendment for which Nigerians canvassed for gender mainstreaming to minimize discrimination of women, and denial in political participation of women to foster social integration, issues of indigeneity are all thrown away by the 9th assembly. Despite the popular support canvassed during the public hearing, the Ahmed Lawal led National Assembly leadership deprived this opportunity for women to be mainstreamed into socio-economic and political development in Nigeria.

Similarly, the outcome of the recently concluded National Assembly elections which was meant to utilize technological innovation, across the country was a huge setback to the country’s push towards the achievement of the affirmative action. Out of the Seven female serving Senators in the 9th assembly, the result announced by INEC so far indicates that none of the female senators will be returning, and only 3 new female senators have been announced so far.

CISLAC notes with serious concerns the situation across some states where women were targeted in electoral conflict, physical and virtual intimidation, as well as harassment in the cause of discharging their civic duties. This is despite the support they provide to political parties and governance in Nigeria.

CISLAC celebrates Mrs. Jennifer Sheifagha who despite being attacked and injured by thugs in Lagos, went back to cast her ballot after receiving treatment. CISLAC considers her action heroic, and condemn in the strongest term, acts of thuggery, and demand that the perpetrators of the dastardly act be brought to justice.

From the earliest days of computing to the present age of virtual reality and artificial intelligence, women have made untold contributions to the digital world in which we live. Women’s accomplishments have been against all odds, in a field that has historically neither welcomed nor appreciated them. Unfortunately, Women make up only 22 per cent of Artificial Intelligence workers globally. A global analysis of 133 Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems across industries found that 44.2 per cent demonstrate gender bias.

In Nigeria, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) data shows that women on the average make up only 22 per cent of the total number of engineering and Technology University graduates on yearly basis, even though the IT industry often talks about inclusion and diversity, much more work needs be done with respect to technological innovation for gender equality in Nigeria.

Today, a continuous gender gap in digital accessibility keeps women from realising technology’s full potential. This is largely due to underrepresentation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education and careers which form a major barrier to their participation in tech design and governance which is not unconnected to sextortion in institutions of learning and workplaces. The dominant threat of online gender-based violence coupled with a lack of legal recourse too often forces them out of the digital spaces they do occupy.

Amidst all odds, digital technology is opening new doors for the global empowerment of women, girls, and other marginalized groups. Nigeria, however, is not utilizing the opportunities that these innovations provide. From gender-responsive digital learning to tech-facilitated sexual and reproductive healthcare, the digital age represents an unprecedented opportunity to eliminate all forms of disparity and inequality.

CISLAC is by this opportunity of this year’s commemoration of women day and working together with other global partners at the Ongoing United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (UNCSW) 67th session that is happening in new York and is calling on governments, corporate entities and to double their efforts to make the digital world safer, more inclusive and equitable. Facing a multiplicity of global crises, we have a chance to create a better future, not just for women and girls, but for all humanity on Earth.

Therefore, 2023, CISLAC is making the following demands towards achieving gender equality in the country:

1. CISLAC is urging that the 10th NASS reintroduce and pass all the gender bills that were rejected by the 9th Assembly.

2. CISLAC is urging government at all levels to adopt collective solutions to improve sexual and reproductive health rights and pursue the achievement of the 95% digital literacy in Nigeria.

3. We urge the government to prioritize nutrition education, workforce nutrition, food fortification and sensitization campaign towards the reduction in the consumption of salt in the country.

4. We are urging government at all levels to implement strategies that has the potential of reducing financial hardships caused by climate shocks with its attendant likelihood of school dropouts of girls, resulting in child marriages, teenage pregnancies, and sexual trafficking of girls and women.

5. We demand the government to fully implement the Safe School Initiative to guarantee the safety of school children, especially for girl children.

6. We Demand relevant authorities to provide the enabling platforms for reporting cases of all forms of sextortion and prosecute reported cases.

7. We demand that the state governments adopt and implement the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act of 2015.

8. We demand that the dysfunctional and poor access to health care for women which leads to maternal mortality and malnutrition be remedied.

On this note, we ride on the opportunity of the International Women’s Day 2023 and in alliance with the theme of this year’s celebration, to call for equal opportunities for digital literacy for Nigerian women.

Signed:
Auwal Musa Rafsanjani
Executive Director Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC)

Baze University Celebrates Women as Global Community Marks 2023 IWD

Baze University Abuja is thrilled and excited to celebrate with women around the world on the occasion of the '2023 International Women's Day', IWD.

Baze University is indeed proud to be associated with this special event, commemorated every March 8, to salute the outstanding contribution of women to global peace, development and prosperity.

This year's theme: “DigitALL: Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality,” seeks to highlight the efforts of girls and women in nurturing the digital economy of many world nations.

As an institution, we recognize the outstanding role women play in deploying cutting-edge technologies to meet the health and developmental needs of the female gender.

As we celebrate this auspicious day and the transformative achievements of the female gender, we wish all the girls and women in various parts of the world, a memorable 'International Women's Day 2023'.

Nigeria's Envoy to Guinea Bissau hails Tinubu’s emergence as Nigeria’s President-elect

The Ambassador of Nigeria to Guinea Bissau and Cape Verde, John James Usanga, has congratulated the President Elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President elect Kashim Shettima, for emerging victorious at the 2023 Presidential elections.

In a statement personally signed by the envoy over the Weekend, the seasoned diplomat assured Nigerians that the election of Tinubu will further boost Nigeria’s standing as the economic power house of Africa and enhance its fortunes in the global diplomatic community.

He stated that the President-Elect has the capacity to make Nigeria one of the World's greatest Nations by duplicating his achievements in Lagos State nationally and bringing Nigerians together for the much-needed socio-economic development.

He assured the Nigerians that the Tinubu-led government would make Nigeria work for all irrespective of tribe, religion, regions or political affiliations.

“Knowing Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s previous record set in his years of public service, especially as the Governor of Lagos State coupled with his capacity for strategic leadership in building men and developmental space, there is no doubt in my mind that he will come up with strategies that will confront head-on the challenges currently being faced by the country.”

He further stated that “as a promoter of sustainable democracy through his persistent activism, he is sure to continue in the developmental strides of President Muhammadu Buhari and put the country first.”

He commended the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) for conducting the election without postponement and upholding the pride of democracy in Nigeria. He also commended the security agencies and other stakeholders for ensuring a predominantly peaceful conduct of the exercise.

Ambassador Usanga said, by coming out to vote candidates of their choices in the Presidential and National Assembly elections, Nigerians have once again demonstrated their commitment to deepening democracy in the country.

While appealing to the newly elected President to create a synergy and collaboration with the opposition so as to hasten development and take Nigeria to its promised land, he appealed to the Presidential candidates of the People’s Democratic Party, Labour Party and their supporters to eschew all forms of violence, and support the President-Elect to move the country forward.

Ambassador Usanga stated, “the stakeholders should remember that the whole of Africa, and indeed the world at large, looks up to Nigeria as the hope for the survival of Africa in the scheme of things. Once Nigeria sneezes, the rest of Africa will catch the flu.

Therefore, we should be mindful of the fact that service to the nation is not about personal gain or self-aggrandizement. If the generality of the people makes their choice, then those who lost out must put their hands on the paddle to push the boat further into the sea of greatness rather than constitute an obstacle.”

FCT Minister of State, Dr Ramatu Tijjani, Hosts APC Victory Concert in Abuja

On Saturday, the Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu, hosted the Abuja Victory Concert at the Eagle Square in celebration of the APC's victory in the Presidential election held on February 25th.

Dr Aliyu, who was accompanied by other top officials in the FCT administration, addressed the crowd and called for their support for the APC in the upcoming March 11th elections.

The Minister during the concert called for more support for APC candidates in the upcoming elections.

The event was attended by party supporters, government officials, and members of the public.

In her address to the crowd, Dr Aliyu expressed her gratitude to the people of the FCT for their support and called on them to come out en masse and vote for the APC in the upcoming March 11th elections.

She emphasized the need for the APC to have its hold on the FCT and assured the crowd that the party would continue to work towards the development of the FCT and the country as a whole.

The Abuja Victory Concert featured musical performances, cultural displays, and speeches by top APC officials.

It was a celebration of the APC's victory in the Presidential election and a call to action for party supporters to come out and vote in the upcoming March 11th elections.

Saliu Mustapha Denies Owning Online Grant Scheme

The Senator-Elect for Kwara Central, Mallam Saliu Mustapha, has denied owning an online financial grant scheme for the disbursement of petty cash to unsuspecting Kwarans.

In a statement, Saliu Mustapha's media office said that the alleged scheme labelled "Sen. Soliu Mustapha N10,000 Complimentary Fund" is operated by unknown fraudsters who could not even spell the candidate's name correctly.

The statement reads, "According to information at our disposal, the fraudsters behind the scheme asked unsuspecting members to apply for a token of appreciation following Mallam Saliu Mustapha's election victory.

"The media office of the Senator-elect refutes the alleged scheme and any other claims made in this manner.

"The media office also wishes to inform the public that the official social media accounts of the Senator-elect continue to serve as the most dependable and authentic sources of information from his office:

Senator-Elect Saliu Mustapha's social media handles remain as follows:

Blog
https://www.saliumustaphafoundation.org/

Facebook
www.facebook.com/saliumustapha

Twitter
www.twitter.com/realmallamsaliu

Instagram
www.instagram.com/mallamsaliumustapha_/

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@mustaphasaliu5185

The statement urged the public to disregard any communication that did not originate from any of the official social media account and to avoid participating in any online scheme intended to defraud innocent citizens.