₦airaland Forum

Amb. Yusuf Tuggar: Nigeria Secures $14bn and €250m in Foreign Investments from India and the Netherlands

Nigeria has attracted $14 billion in investments from India, spanning multiple sectors, according to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar. He made this announcement during the 5th Ministerial Press Briefing in Abuja on Thursday.

In addition to this, the country has also secured €250 million from the Netherlands to support local businesses, reinforcing efforts to stimulate economic growth and development.

Highlighting Nigeria’s growing investor confidence, Tuggar revealed that the Federal Government’s recent Eurobond issuance was oversubscribed by an impressive 300%, further strengthening the country’s financial position.

Moreover, Nigeria has signed strategic Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with ten nations to deepen bilateral cooperation across key industries. These countries include Germany, Saudi Arabia, China, Equatorial Guinea, France, Cuba, Qatar, the United Kingdom, India, and Brazil.

The agreements are designed to enhance collaboration in critical sectors such as power, oil and gas, agriculture, and infrastructure, positioning Nigeria as a key player in the global investment landscape.

Furthermore, in a statement by the Global Economic Policy Initiative, the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration was commended for its visits to strategic partner countries that have fetched the country these investments.

Mr. Bernard Okri, President of the group stated on Friday that these trips, coordinated by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar have made Nigeria a global investment hub.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s strategic visits to key partner countries, coordinated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs under Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, are instrumental in driving Nigeria’s economic transformation.

“These diplomatic engagements have yielded billions in foreign investments, such as the $14 billion from India and €250 million from the Netherlands, directly supporting critical sectors like power, oil and gas, agriculture, and infrastructure.

“Furthermore, Nigeria’s 300% oversubscribed Eurobond issuance reflects growing investor confidence, bolstered by these high-level engagements. By strengthening bilateral ties, securing technology transfers, and fostering trade agreements, these trips are positioning Nigeria as a global investment hub, paving the way for sustainable growth, job creation, and industrial advancement.”

In a move to strengthen Nigeria’s industrial sector and reduce reliance on imports, the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting indigenous manufacturing. This was the focus of its Strategic Focus Group Meeting held in Asaba, Delta State, themed “Home Made Goods: The Future of Nigeria’s Economy.”

The workshop brought together top government officials, industry leaders, and key stakeholders to discuss strategies for boosting local production, stimulating job creation, and fostering economic resilience.

Present at the meeting was the Delta State Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Jamani Tommy Ejiro, and Commissioner for Science and Technology, Hon. Daniel Odinigie who lauded NASENI’s drive for Made In Nigeria goods, stating that these conversations were timely and necessary for economic diversification. They stressed that empowering local manufacturers would not only create jobs but also strengthen Nigeria’s industrial base.

The meeting underscored the importance of home-grown production in building a sustainable and competitive economy, highlighting benefits such as boosting economic growth by fostering innovation and expanding industrial development, reducing dependence on imports to enhance Nigeria’s self-sufficiency, creating employment opportunities and strengthening local supply chains as well as enhancing product quality through investment in research and technology.

Discussions at the meeting emphasised that Nigeria’s future depends on scaling up local production, improving product quality, and embracing modern manufacturing techniques.

They also stressed that indigenous technology could serve as a catalyst for infrastructural development and called on both government and private sector stakeholders to champion the cause.

The participants during the discussion segments proposed ncentives for local manufacturers to reduce production costs and improve competitiveness, lowered interest rates on loans to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in manufacturing, as well as public-private partnerships to expand production and distribution networks.

Matawalle Reaffirms Nigeria’s Commitment to Self-Reliance in Defence Production

In a display of commitment to Nigeria’s strategic defence objectives, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, MON, today reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to self-reliance in defence production.

Dr. Matawalle made this affirmation when he received a high-level delegation from China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO) in his office at the Ministry of Defence, Ship House, Abuja.

The delegation, led by Mr. Tian Bei, Deputy General Manager of NORINCO’s Africa-America Department, visited the minister as part of a sustained military-industrial engagement initiated in 2024 to fortify Nigeria’s indigenous defence architecture through mutually beneficial alliances with globally established defence players.

Dr. Matawalle emphasized the Federal Government’s unrelenting resolve to reposition the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) into a world-class military production entity. “Our doctrine is clear: Nigeria must attain self-reliance in defence production. We are open to serious partners who are ready to respect our sovereignty, transfer critical technology, and build genuine local capacity,” he declared.

This strategic partnership with NORINCO, a globally renowned defence conglomerate, is projected to deliver decisive outcomes in critical areas such as; Comprehensive technology transfer, Advanced training and capacity-building, and Boosting of indigenous content in defence manufacturing.

These initiatives are in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Commander-in-Chief President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which prioritizes indigenous capability development, operational autonomy, and the security of the nation through industrialized defence solutions.

HM Matawalle assured the delegation of Nigeria’s full support, stating that the Ministry of Defence stands ready to support all credible efforts aimed at transforming the nation into a regional hub for military hardware production.

The high-level engagement reflects Nigeria’s strategic pivot towards self-sustaining military industrialization, mission-ready capacity, and a fortified sovereign defence posture.

Matawalle Backs President Tinubu’s Declaration of State of Emergency in Rivers State

… Urges all parties to respect the declaration and warns against attacks on government facilities

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence H.E. Dr. Bello Mohammad Matawalle MON,has expressed his strong support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, emphasizing that this decisive action is vital for restoring stability to the state’s turbulent political landscape.

Matawalle stated that the declaration is a necessary measure to address the ongoing political crisis, which has hindered the delivery of democratic governance and the welfare of the people of Rivers State. He called on all political actors involved in the crisis to adhere to the President’s declaration and work collaboratively towards a peaceful resolution.

In light of the current situation, the Minister reiterated that the Nigerian Military is on high alert to safeguard government infrastructure and ensure the security of the citizens. He warned that any attempts to attack government facilities or disrupt public order will be met with a resolute response from security forces.

Reflecting on the President’s address regarding the state of emergency, he acknowledged the gravity of the political crisis in Rivers State and the urgent need for intervention. He highlighted the unfortunate demolition of the House of Assembly by the state governor, which has left the state without a functioning legislature for over fourteen months. This action has contributed to the ongoing political impasse and the inability of the government to effectively serve the people.

The Minister also noted the Supreme Court’s recent ruling, which reaffirmed the constitutional necessity of a functioning legislature and condemned the governor’s actions as unconstitutional. He emphasized that the court’s findings call for immediate restoration of democratic governance in the state.

Minister Matawalle expressed concern over recent reports of vandalism and threats from militants, underscoring the need for a unified effort to restore peace and security. He reiterated that the Federal Government is committed to ensuring the safety of all citizens and the protection of vital infrastructure in Rivers State.

In addition, the Honourable Minister of State reaffirmed the commitment of the Ministry of Defence and the Nigerian Armed Forces to upholding national security and ensuring that Rivers State returns to peace, stability and democratic governance.

In conclusion, the Minister of State for Defence urged all stakeholders to embrace this opportunity for renewed governance and cooperation. He expressed hope that the state of emergency will pave the way for a peaceful and democratic Rivers State, benefitting all its residents.

Ramadan Palliatives: Nigerian Muslim’s Commend Matawalle

The Nigeria Muslim League Group (NIMUL) has commended the Minister of Defence for State, Hon Bello Mohammed Matawalle, for his generous donation of over N500 million and tonnes of food items to those in need during Ramadan.

This gesture aimed at alleviating the hardships faced by the majority of people in Zamfara state and other neighboring states in the North West.

The group praised Minister Matawalle’s efforts in providing Ramadan palliatives, including foodstuffs and cash, to thousands of vulnerable individuals across the North West, particularly in Zamfara, Sokoto, Kaduna and Kebbi states.

The National Coordinator of NIMUL, Professor Mika’il Jibrin, described Minister Matawalle’s gesture as one of the best initiatives that have benefited thousands of people in a single exercise without government sponsorship.

“This gesture is remarkable, as it is one of the largest individual donations to cushion the suffering of the majority of people in the region”, he said

Recently, Minister Matawalle distributed over N500 million to people across the 14 Local Government Areas of Zamfara state, targeting those experiencing economic hardship during the Ramadan fasting period.

Professor Jibrin commended the efficient distribution process, which ensured that beneficiaries received support directly, without suffering or rancor.

The group noted that, despite reports of politicians being among the beneficiaries in Zamfara, other groups, including those in neighboring states, also received support, demonstrating the initiative’s inclusivity.

To this group, the impact of Matawalle’s gesture goes beyond numbers, as it provides direct support to those in dire need, particularly in rural areas.

The group specifically acknowledged Minister Matawalle’s significant donation to mosques, carefree organizations, and the creation of free feeding centers across 14 local governments in Zamfara and other places in Sokoto, Kebbi, and Kaduna states.

“His charitable efforts have greatly benefited low-income families, orphans, and vulnerable individuals in the region”, the group said.

While commending the efforts of other state governments in the region, NIMUL appreciated their sacrifices and commitments to helping the needy during Ramadan, urging beneficiaries to dedicate their time to praying for the nation’s unity, peace, and success in addressing insecurity challenges affecting the region.

Nigeria, Under Tinubu Has Reduced Dependence On Costly Commercial Borrowing — Wale Edun


The federal government said it has improved its resource allocation strategy to enhance efficiency and sustainability.

With this decision, the government has also reduced the nation’s dependence on high-cost commercial borrowing. Instead, the government is exploring alternative funding sources, such as revenue generation, concessional loans, and strategic investments.

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, disclosed this during a virtual address on Thursday at the opening of a two-day high-level interactive session in Abuja.

The event focused on strengthening collaboration for sustainable financial management and national development, bringing together members of the Senate and House Committees on Finance, Heads of Agencies, and Directors from the Ministry.

Edun stated that the administration has reached a stage where resource optimization takes precedence, leading to a shift away from borrowing from commercial markets. According to him, this shift is part of broader efforts to promote fiscal responsibility and reduce the financial strain caused by expensive loans.

“We want to enhance public transparency, reduce waste, and foster accountability in public financial management while optimizing our resources. We are at that optimization stage, where there is less focus on borrowing, particularly from the commercial markets, which is quite high. We are focusing more on optimizing assets and attracting private sector investment, whether domestic or foreign. That’s the collaboration I keep referring to, and it emerges at every stage,” Edun stated.

He expressed confidence in the government’s economic strategy, insisting that by using macroeconomic tools, Nigeria can significantly reduce poverty and promote sustainable development. He stressed the need for mutual respect, cooperation, and collaboration among key stakeholders in serving under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“This event demonstrates the commitment of the Federal Ministry of Finance to partner with critical stakeholders at various levels in driving sustainable economic growth and sound financial management for our dear country,” he added.

The Lead Speaker at the event, Senator Ita Enang, delivered a presentation on the importance of seamless coordination between the Executive and the Legislature in advancing economic policies. He pointed out that legislative committees must obtain a resolution from their respective chambers before conducting investigative hearings involving government officials.

“Although you are the overseeing committee, you cannot, without a House resolution, invite a Minister or head of an agency to conduct an investigation over a matter. This is because you are a committee of the House, and before the House can receive such a report, it must reference its resolution authorizing the inquiry,” Enang explained.

To enhance the transmission of bills between the Executive and the National Assembly, he recommended the establishment of an Economy Coordination Liaison Mission within the Ministry of Finance. According to him, this mission should work closely with the Ministry of Budget and Economic Development and the Budget Office of the Federation to facilitate smooth interactions with lawmakers.

Enang noted the presence of liaison officers from institutions such as the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), who monitor and advance bills relevant to their mandates.

He proposed that these institutions’ liaison personnel should operate under a unified directive from the Coordinating Minister of the Economy to ensure coherence in policymaking and prevent conflicting economic measures.

“The entirety of this economic sector liaison personnel should, under the directive of the Coordinating Minister of the Economy, work in coordination with finance and related committees of each chamber of the National Assembly. This will prevent institutions from working in silos and producing outcomes that, while strengthening individual agencies, could inadvertently harm the national economy,” he stated.

Matawalle Calls For United ECOWAS Front Against Insecurity

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, MON, on Tuesday, called on ECOWAS countries to put up a united front to tackle threats facing the region.

Speaking as Special Guest of Honour at a gala night, in Abuja held in honour of the Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff (CCDS) of ECOWAS Member States event, the Minister of State for Defence emphasized that the prevailing and emerging security threats faced by the region necessitate a comprehensive and coordinated regional response.

The Honourable Minister highlighted the multidimensional threats confronting the region, including terrorism, violent extremism, maritime insecurity, and transnational organized crime.

“Our region stands at a critical crossroads. No single nation can afford to confront these threats in isolation. We must continue to forge a unified front—through timely intelligence sharing, harmonized operational strategies, and enhanced force capabilities—to neutralize threats and uphold regional peace and stability.”

HM Matawalle reiterated Nigeria’s full support for the operationalization of ECOWAS security frameworks and regional standby mechanisms, and urged all Chiefs of Defence Staff to strengthen interoperability, professionalism, and cohesive force posture.

“As defence partners, we bear the collective responsibility—and possess the shared capability—to build a stronger, safer, and more secure West Africa.”

Dr. Bello Matawalle also used the gathering to reaffirm the commitment of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to regional security cooperation, and to the principles of collective defence and operational solidarity within the ECOWAS subregion.

The event, hosted by the Chief of Defence Staff, Armed Forces of Nigeria, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, OFR, who also serves as the Chairman, ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff marked a reaffirmation of regional defence solidarity and the strategic importance of sustained collaboration among ECOWAS Armed Forces.

How Nuhu Ribadu’s Enhanced Coordination is Curbing Terrorism in Nigeria

According to a report by Channels TV, terrorist attacks in Nigeria have dropped to the lowest in decades. Indeed, even going by news reports, there have been very few cases of terrorist attacks across the country in the past months. This remarkable record did not happen by chance.

In the background of the massive leap in the fight against insecurity is one man playing his role as Coordinator in Chief: Mallam Nuhu Ribadu. He arrived office as the country’s National Security Adviser in June 2023 and ever since has shown leadership, particularly causing a strategic shift in how we run in security in the country.

Take for example: We have seen improved inter-agency coordination, better than has ever been in our country’s history. Lack of coordination has historically been a weak link in our counterterrorism efforts. Anyone who followed security news in the past ten years will tell you that our security agencies, capable and well-equipped however failed to nip insecurity in the bud due to inter-agency rivalry and poor team work. Cases abound of Heads of these security agencies giving different accounts of the same event due to poor coordination.

With better oversight over the DSS, the Police Force, and military, which have often operated in silos, we are seeing better intelligence sharing and joint operations—mostly through the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) established under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).

Improved coordination and intelligence sharing among these security agencies has led to more effective prevention and response to threats. With this we are seeing faster identification of risks, better allocation of resources, and enhanced overall public safety as a result.

With improved intelligence gathering and sharing, we are also seeing more preemptive strikes against terrorist groups like Boko Haram and whatever new names they chose to call themselves.

I also understand that one of the strategies of the NSA has been to cut off terrorists financial lifelines. Funding provides terrorists with the resources to plan, train, recruit, and execute attacks. Bandits in the Northwest, rely on ransom payments and illicit trade. With a crack down on their funding networks, tracking down and freezing of their assets, terrorists have found it hard to sustain their operations.

There is also a strategy that Nuhu Ribadu has also been employing that is worth mentioning: It is called the “whole-of-society” approach. It includes addressing root causes of terrorism—like poverty, unemployment, and marginalisation in the Northeast—through targeted development projects. This tactic contrasts with the previous reliance on brute force alone.

We are seeing a mix of better coordination, financial strangulation, softer counterterrorism tactics, and tech-driven intelligence—executed with deliberate intent rather than the fragmented approaches of the past, hence the positive drop in terrorist attacks as reported by Channels TV.

Taye Olubayo is a security expert and writes from Abuja

Wale Edun’s Global Investment Drive: Bridging Gaps for Nigeria’s Growth

In a concerted effort to rejuvenate Nigeria’s economic landscape, Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, has embarked on a series of strategic engagements with global financial powerhouses. These initiatives aim to attract substantial investments to address the nation’s multifaceted challenges and unlock its vast economic potential.

Nigeria faces a complex array of challenges. The healthcare sector struggles with inadequate infrastructure and manpower, the energy landscape is faces inefficiencies, and agricultural productivity remains suboptimal. However, beneath these challenges lies immense potential. With a rapidly growing population exceeding 200 million, vast gas reserves, and an indomitable entrepreneurial spirit, Nigeria is well-positioned for economic transformation.

At the heart of Minister Edun’s investment drive is a clear strategy—not merely to attract capital but to secure sustainable partnerships that bridge critical funding gaps and accelerate development.

A few days ago, Minister Edun met with a delegation from Standard Chartered Bank, where the bank lauded Nigeria’s bold economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and market liberalization. These measures, once deemed improbable, have reignited investor confidence, signaling a positive shift in the country’s fiscal trajectory.

Furthering these efforts, a high-level delegation from JP Morgan, led by Dapo Olagunju, Head of West Africa, engaged with Minister Edun to explore investment opportunities. Their discussions underscored Nigeria’s commitment to market-driven reforms, expanding electricity access, and strengthening revenue generation—all critical to stabilizing the economy.

Partnerships with financial institutions like JP Morgan are pivotal, offering avenues to enhance infrastructure, improve healthcare delivery, and revolutionize the energy sector. These investments are not just about injecting funds into the economy; they are also essential for tackling systemic challenges and fostering long-term, sustainable development.

Beyond private sector engagements, Minister Edun represented Nigeria at the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting in Cape Town. There, he reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to global economic stability and sustainable development. His discussions with international financial leaders centered on mobilizing investments for growth and increasing financial support for developing economies, reflecting Nigeria’s proactive stance in shaping global economic policies.

In another strategic meeting with the World Bank’s Executive Director—and his predecessor in office—Dr. Zainab Shamsuna Ahmed, Mr. Wale Edun emphasized Nigeria’s pursuit of economic independence through private sector-driven growth. He underscored the need to reduce reliance on external debt while highlighting Nigeria’s macroeconomic reforms, which have strengthened fiscal stability and boosted investor confidence.

Mr. Edun’s engagement with the World Bank underscores the importance of forging strategic partnerships that align with Nigeria’s development aspirations. These dialogues reinforce the government’s commitment to long-term economic transformation, prioritizing structural reforms that create a more resilient and investor-friendly business environment.

Nigeria’s economic landscape presents both challenges and opportunities. Minister Edun’s proactive engagements with global financial leaders are aimed at bridging critical funding gaps, addressing structural inefficiencies, and positioning Nigeria on a sustainable growth trajectory.

His efforts signal a new era of economic diplomacy—one that prioritizes investment-driven growth, fiscal discipline, and long-term stability. With these strategic engagements, Nigeria is not just attracting capital but laying the foundation for an economy that is resilient, competitive, and future-ready.

- John Olanipekun, an Economist writes from Osun State

SIX (6) STATEMENTS THAT STOOD OUT IN AMBASSADOR YUSUF TUGGAR’S SPEECH AT THE CHATHAM HOUSE LAST WEEK


1. Nigeria’s Dilemma Between Balancing Climate Realities and Dealing with Energy Security: Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar used the platform to highlight the urgent and complex interplay between climate change, resource conflicts, and energy security, emphasizing their real-world consequences for Nigeria and beyond, here is what he said:

“As the debate swings back, forth and now – at least in some quarters - back again on climate change, we understand only too well the contradictions and the challenges. In Nigeria we sometimes have droughts and flooding, in different parts of the country, at the same time. We don’t need to wait for future generations. Lake Chad, that used to be a vast inland ocean, is a tiny, damp shadow of what it once was. And there are real world consequences: combined with demographic change, competition for resources has fuelled tensions and violence between herders and farmers in Nigeria and across the region. And fertile ground for violent extremists to exploit a lot of young people with very little in the way of legitimate opportunity.

And yet as everyone in Europe and beyond has learnt since 2022 – energy security is also national security and an economic security issue and the foundation of a stable international system.

Unmanaged, [the effects of climate change] are some of the most significant triggers for violent extremism and irregular migration. Our problems – are everyone’s problems. Africa knows that if the transition to a more carbon neutral energy equation is to be effective, there has to be a transition that is fair and equitable.”


2. Ambassador Tuggar also reflected on the fragility of democracy, the dangers of hate speech, and the growing interconnectedness of global challenges, emphasizing the need for responsibility in protecting democratic values and regulating digital spaces. His words:

“I would say this: I was born the year a civil war started. I was in my 30s before I got the chance to vote, and have any kind of say in who should form the government that ruled my country. I look at the cheerleaders for military rule in other parts of West Africa now, or those more broadly who try to use the rule of law to break the rule of law, and I am reminded that we can take democracy too easily for granted – right up until the moment that it is taken away.

“In Nigeria, we saw the lives lost and lives ruined by unfiltered hate speech, and were told it was the price of freedom. We knew exactly why the UK government was right to come down so hard last year on those who spread hate and violence with a few clicks on their phone. We think that with rights come responsibilities. This is especially true in the new world of aggregated data, which impacts so many and yet is understood by so few.

“So perhaps one of the lessons of the last few weeks is that the world is genuinely a smaller place than we imagined, and that some of the problems we face in Africa may look a little more familiar here, now, than might have appeared the case until very recently.”


3. The Five Principles of Nigeria’s Foreign Policy: In his speech Ambassador Tuggar stated that Nigeria’s foreign policy serves five principles. And they are:

“As a matter of law, Nigeria’s foreign policy serves five principles: promotion and protection of the national interest, African integration and support for African unity, promotion of international cooperation for peace and mutual respect, respect of international law and treaty obligations and promotion of a just world economic order.”


4. President Bola Tinubu Is Taking Difficult But Necessary Reforms: Ambassador Tuggar used the platform to emphasized the need for strong leadership, political accountability, and the risks of failing to break away from an unsustainable economic model, that Nigeria has practiced over the years. He said that President Bola Tinubu is on the right path, here:


“President Bola Tinubu is the first career politician Nigeria has had as leader in a long time. In a country where politicians typically get a bad rap, I find myself sometimes having to state the obvious: real change requires the assembly of a, to borrow a phrase, ‘coalition of the willing’. We need the right policies, and the means to deliver them. This is, first and foremost, a political task. And this is why the Tinubu government has been able to tackle really difficult, potentially volatile issues with the success that it has had: because of a leadership that knows both what needs to be done, and how to get it done.


“What we are doing, and we are nearly two years in, is to strengthen political accountability, discipline and capacity - in tandem with the sacrifices inevitably associated with the reform of a failed and unsustainable economic model. Our job in the foreign ministry is to explain the delicacy of this process, and the risks associated with it, for us, the region and our partners. But it is also to point out the much greater risks of failure, or – worse still – trying to continue with a system that is tried, tested and failed.”




5. Nigeria’s Foreign Minister emphasizes the country’s commitment to ‘Strategic Autonomy’, drawing from Tafawa Balewa’s legacy to highlight the nation’s right to independent decision-making in political, economic, and security matters while fostering regional stability and advocating for Africa on the global stage. His words:

“We also believe in Strategic Autonomy: our ability to independently make decisions and implement policies that safeguard our national interests, free from undue external influence. This means maintaining sovereignty in political, economic, and security matters for Nigeria while engaging in international partnerships that align with our goals.

“Tafewa Balewa’s commitment to the Non-Aligned Movement was a manifestation of Strategic Autonomy. It acknowledges that no one has as much of an interest making Nigeria work as Nigeria. And that means helping to make the region work, and championing Africa on the wider stage. It is also to uphold the principle of non-interference in the affairs of sovereign states.”

6. Ambassador Tuggar during his remarks affirmed Nigeria’s commitment to democratic values within ECOWAS, despite tensions with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, while also highlighting the region’s shifting security landscape following the withdrawal of Western forces—warning that emerging actors, from Russian private military groups to jihadist insurgents, pose significant threats that Nigeria must confront.

“The point is this: it’s not up to Nigeria to decide who forms the government of countries in our region. But we can compromise only so far on the values of democracy and the vision of community that we share with other ECOWAS countries. We have reached out to Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger on many occasions. Every time we offer an olive branch, they use it as a stick with which to beat us. But we have shown that ECOWAS has a distinct identity and that, for all its faults, it has made progress that will leave those on the outside literally and figuratively poorer for it.

“We have seen the departure of French and US forces from the region, with varying degrees of reluctance. There’s no ‘security backstop’ that we, as Nigeria and the region, will not provide for ourselves. And that may not be a bad thing. But don’t for a moment think that the Russian private security companies or the jihadist groups in the Sahel that are taking the place of the French and the Americans lack ambition. Nigeria is fighting on everyone’s frontline.”

Standard Chartered Bank Lauds Nigeria’s Economic Reforms, Explores Investment Opportunities

A delegation from Standard Chartered Bank has commended Nigeria’s bold economic reforms, describing them as “extraordinary” during a meeting with Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun. The delegation acknowledged key measures such as the removal of fuel subsidies and market liberalization—once deemed unlikely—while expressing keen interest in Nigeria’s evolving investment landscape and institutional stability.

Investor confidence in Nigeria’s debt market featured prominently in discussions, with participants noting renewed appetite for both Eurobonds and local debt instruments. HM Edun highlighted the country’s improving fiscal health, citing a significant reduction in the budget deficit and ongoing efforts to stabilise the economy, control inflation, and lower interest rates. Nigeria’s economy, he noted, is growing at 3.84%, with a target of 7% needed for substantial poverty reduction and job creation.

The delegation also praised President Bola Tinubu's engagement with international financial institutions and development agencies, noting that Nigeria’s proactive approach to economic partnerships is fostering a more stable and investment-friendly environment.

Nuhu Ribadu and the Sermon on Silence

Two friends are at loggerheads. In fact, I am wrong. One friend is at loggerheads with the other. They are, in fact, no longer friends, as one of them has resoundingly declared.

In his interview with Arise TV, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, immediate past Governor of Kaduna State and former Minister of the FCT—whom I must credit for shaping Abuja into what it is today—accused his erstwhile friend of orchestrating his failed ministerial nomination and current persecution by the Kaduna State government.

That was Mallam El-Rufai’s first media appearance since leaving office, and it was compelling given the controversies surrounding him at both the federal and state levels. Expectedly, it was bound to come with loaded fireworks. Millions of politically charged Nigerians were eager to watch. I was at the lobby of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport, waiting on a delayed flight. I pulled out my iPad and streamed the interview. Like many others, I did not want to miss the blockbuster.

Until that interview, all that was known about the issues surrounding Mallam El-Rufai were rumors, conjectures, and cryptic tweets from the Kaduna technocrat. Over the months leading up to that moment, he had built a case worth listening to. And we did.

In his interview, he laid it all bare—there was anger, hurt, bitterness, and vengefulness in his tone. But understandably so. He accused the one he once called a friend, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, of being the linchpin of his predicament. His words were exact and unreserved: “This project of destroying Nasir El-Rufai is Nuhu Ribadu’s conception. He is the architect and builder of that project. He is the one working with Uba Sani to implement it. So far, it has been frustrating for them.”

The former governor went further: “Somebody wants to destroy my reputation. Why? Nuhu Ribadu wants to be president in 2031. He has to eliminate every northerner that he thinks is on the radar.”

This projectile fired at the National Security Adviser was no joke. The accusations were hefty. Every commentator in the public space expected a spat. They got none.

Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, in his characteristic calm, focus, and equanimity, delivered a response that has aged well. He simply stated that he would not join issues with Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, emphasizing that he was too preoccupied with his national assignment to engage in media fights.

This response is a classic lesson in issue management as a public servant. As Winston Churchill once said: “You will never reach your destination if you stop and throw stones at every dog that barks.”

By his response, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu made it clear that he has a task to deliver—a path and a destination—and does not intend to be deterred by those barking at him.

It is often the case that many government appointees get distracted by external noise to the point that they lose focus on their primary assignment. If an official responds to every media projectile thrown at them, they will neither have the time nor the mental bandwidth to fulfill their duties. The back-and-forth would cost them valuable time—time that could be spent treating over 200 files and addressing pressing national concerns.

There is a good dose of wisdom to take from Mallam Nuhu Ribadu’s measured response to Mallam Nasir El-Rufai. It is the wisdom of restraint and cultivated silence.

“If my silence wouldn’t risk being construed as consent, I would have ignored him. I am too preoccupied with my current assignment to get into a media fight with Nasir El-Rufai or anyone else. Despite the incessant baiting and attacks, I have never spoken ill of Nasir on record anywhere. This is out of respect for our past association and our respective families. I will not start today. I, however, urge the public to disregard El-Rufai’s statements against me.”

One of the most striking things about this response was its tone. Despite the weighty allegations against him, Mallam Ribadu maintained a tone of respect and dignity toward his former friend. He did not go “gbas gbos”, as Gen-Zs would describe it.

In a world of caustic politics and active vengeance, many would have expected a harsher response from Mallam Ribadu. Instead, he proved that with age comes wisdom—the wisdom to know when to speak, when to be silent, and when to honor friendships and family ties.

As National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu occupies one of the most sensitive offices in the country. He is, in many ways, the President’s closest adviser on national stability and security. He coordinates the government. His job is to ensure law and order, and by refusing to be dragged into an open political brawl, he demonstrated a deep understanding of the weight of his office. He knows better than to step into the pigsty.

This, in turn, proves that he has the right temperament for the role. A rambunctious, reactionary, short-fused individual—like a pressure cooker ready to explode at the slightest provocation—cannot effectively handle the responsibilities of the National Security Adviser. It takes someone who understands the importance of time, order, and the sanctity of their office to thrive in such a role. For a position that demands the management of the worst crises with clarity and composure, Mallam Ribadu has shown both critics and admirers alike that he is indeed the right man for the job.

Unsurprisingly, since Mallam Ribadu’s six-paragraph response, there has been a conspicuous silence from those who had called for war. The attention they craved was denied, and the noise has since withered away. The lesson here is simple: know when to speak, when to be silent, and when to speak silently.

Mohammed Abiodun is a historian, and he writes from the F.C.T

At Chatham House, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar Makes Case For Nigeria’s Strategic Foreign Policy Priorities

The Chatham House, officially known as the Royal Institute of International Affairs, is one of the world’s most prestigious think tank, founded in 1920, and based in London. It is renowned for its independent research and analysis on international affairs and serves as a platform for policymakers and foreign diplomats to host high-level debates and discussions under the “Chatham House Rule,” which ensures anonymity and encourages candid, open dialogue on pressing global issues like geopolitics, economics, and security.

His Excellency, Ambassador Yusuf M. Tuggar, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, was the Chatham House’s most recent guest where he outlined Nigeria's strategic foreign policy priorities and the government’s approach to international engagement. His address reflected Nigeria’s ambition to enhance its global standing and advance its development goals through a deliberate and pragmatic foreign policy strategy.

Ambassador Tuggar emphasized that Nigeria views itself as a key player in the evolving global system. And this is indeed so. Take our huge population, for instance, or our strategic geography, and exceptional talent. With over 200 million people—the largest population in Africa—Nigeria’s diverse workforce and consumer base drive innovation and resilience. Geographically, Nigeria’s access to Atlantic trade routes and its position as Africa’s largest economy, boasting a GDP of over $400 billion, make it a pivotal player in global commerce. With the largest economy in Africa, Nigeria is not a country to be kept at the backseat.

The nation has also showed that it is a leader by right. Whether it is its contributions to “peacekeeping emergencies in the aftermath of independence in the 1960s,” or supporting liberation movements in South Africa, or ending the “appalling wars in Liberia and Sierra Leone in the 1960s,” or sending out our Technical Aide Corps to African Caribbean and Pacific nations, for free, Nigeria has positioned itself as Africas big brother, and indeed a force to be reckoned with.

And even beyond this, the country is positioning itself as a bridge between the Global South and the North, asserting its leadership in Africa while strengthening diplomatic ties with other regions.

Ambassador Tuggar, in his address to the Chatham House guests spoke to the ongoing global conversation around climate change. He highlighted the challenges faced by African countries in dealing with the contraditions posed by dealing with climate change, including fuelled tensions and violence between herders and farmers in Nigeria, and the drying up of the Lake Chad. Ambassador Tuggar highlights the criticality of this situation when he admits that this is a matter of national security.

According to him: “unmanaged, these are some of the most significant triggers for violent extremism and irregular migration. Our problems – are everyone’s problems. Africa knows that if the transition to a more carbon neutral energy equation is to be effective, there has to be a transition that is fair and equitable.

“That is why we have called for a more flexible interpretation for the use of those instruments agencies like the International Monetary Fund have at their disposal, instruments established long before the climate emergency, like Special Drawing Rights, which can be adapted to allow the IMF to deliver its mandate to provide the financing for growth, opportunity and prosperity.”

Ambassador Tuggar reminded his audience of the importance of democracy and why they must not take it for granted.

He further emphasized that Nigeria’s foreign policy serves five principles: the “promotion and protection of the national interest, African integration and support for African unity, promotion of international cooperation for peace and mutual respect, respect of international law and treaty obligations and promotion of a just world economic order.”

The venue, Chatham House is easily the convenient platform to explain to a diverse foreign audience the policies of the President Bola Tinubu administration. Ambassador Tuggar carefully did not miss that opportunity, highlighting that the Tinubu administration has been forced to make tough but necessary decisions that have placed the country in a much better place for growth, development and investments.

“President Bola Tinubu is the first career politician Nigeria has had as leader in a long time. In a country where politicians typically get a bad rap, I find myself sometimes having to state the obvious: real change requires the assembly of a, to borrow a phrase, ‘coalition of the willing’. We need the right policies, and the means to deliver them. This is, first and foremost, a political task.

“And this is why the Tinubu government has been able to tackle really difficult, potentially volatile issues with the success that it has had: because of a leadership that knows both what needs to be done, and how to get it done.

“There cannot be a trade-off between reform and stability, between politics and the economy. What we are doing, and we are nearly two years in, is to strengthen political accountability, discipline and capacity - in tandem with the sacrifices inevitably associated with the reform of a failed and unsustainable economic model.”

A matter that has been on the lips of Foreign Affairs wonks has been the question of how Nigeria is dealing with the ECOWAS crisis—the exit of three francophone countries, Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali. In some months to come, the regional body would celebrate its 50 years anniversary. Ambassador Tuggar, in his speech notes that their decision to leave was due to their refusal to commit to a timetable for the restoration of democratic constitutional rule.

On an interesting note, scarcely known among many, Ambassador Tuggar informs his audience that Nigeria reached out to the governments of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger on many occasions, but the countries rebuffed Nigeria’s olive branch offerings.

Ambassador Tuggar also highlighted Nigeria’s pursuit of greater influence in multilateral institutions, including aspirations for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council and membership in the G20. He reiterated that although Nigeria is a developing country, it seeks to balance strategic partnerships with Western nations while strengthening ties with emerging economies, such as those in the BRICS group. The nation’s enthusiasm is evident in its active participation and leadership within key organizations such as ECOWAS, the African Union, and the United Nations.

He acknowledged the need to address internal challenges, including security concerns, economic volatility, and governance issues, in order to align its global ambitions with national development goals.

During the Q&A session, His Excellency Ambassador Yusuf M. Tuggar addressed some pressing questions from journalists and participants present at the event.

First on the list was Tsochi Ike, a policy strategist. She asked, “What strategies is the Tinubu administration implementing to address the instability of the economy, attract foreign investors, and uncover the untapped opportunities in Nigeria? How will the administration harness the talent and energy of Nigeria’s vibrant, young population?” The Ambassador revealed that several measures have been taken, including reforms in the electricity sector. He cited the Electricity Act, which allows private organizations and sub-nationals to manage their own power supply. This is aimed at decentralizing power distribution and empowering the people. He also discussed new gas pipelines, such as the African Atlantic Pipeline, which aims to deliver energy to countries like Morocco and Europe. Regarding infrastructure, Tuggar mentioned the country’s collaboration with China to develop railroads, roads, and seaports, making Nigeria more attractive to investors. He also highlighted the Startup Act, which enables startup companies to flourish, and spoke about the MTT program that focuses on training youth in technology.

Next was Godson Azu, CEO of Carter and Merger, who asked what efforts Nigeria is making to manage the relationship between Nigerians in the diaspora particularly in the UK and the way the UK government is handling issues related to Nigerians? Specifically, what are the Ambassador’s thoughts are on the statements made by the Conservative Party. The Ambassador revealed that the Nigerian administration is looking to engage with these talents to enhance Nigeria's technological community.

Another question came from Iyin Ashika, a final-year law student at King's College London. She referenced the Ambassador’s statement on Nigeria’s desire for reforms in the global financial architecture and asked what kind of reforms Nigeria would like to see and how they would benefit the country. She also inquired about Nigeria’s position in terms of foreign policy. In response, Tuggar explained that key reforms would include more funding, recalibration of risk assessments, and a more realistic view of developing countries. He also noted that the new lending act might affect many developing nations, particularly regarding the application of the IMF’s Special Drawing Rights (SDR), debt relief, and technology transfers from developed countries to developing ones. The Ambassador stressed that these issues would be prioritized when Nigeria secures a permanent seat on the UN Security Council.

Dr. Gabriel Obokon, a fellow at University College London, asked about the Trump administration’s decision to end global funding for HIV drugs and what Nigeria’s administration is doing to build health resilience and local capacity. Amb. Tuggar responded that the Minister of Health has identified funds to bridge the gap following the US pullout, and that the country is ready to face any new challenges. He emphasized that Nigeria has been working tirelessly to build capacity since the COVID-19 pandemic and is now better prepared for future challenges.

Online, a participant asked what Nigeria is doing to maintain its role within ECOWAS. Amb. Tuggar revealed that countries are bridging gaps and forming alliances to create industrial ventures for all nations, such as the transportation of gas through pipelines, the Abidjan-Lagos Corridor, and the automation and digitization of goods transportation. He mentioned that all these projects are being adopted by ECOWAS and offer an avenue for collaboration with big tech companies and European countries interested in investing. Tuggar highlighted that ECOWAS is one of the most advanced self-funding mechanisms.

Byran, an employee of Dragonfly Intelligence, asked what role Nigeria plays in addressing regional conflicts, such as the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The Ambassador revealed that he attended a meeting of the African Union’s Peace and Security Council, where representatives from Congo were in attendance. He further explained that the Lwanda Process and the Nairobi Process had merged to facilitate mediation in the conflict

Patrick Smith, Africa Confidential, asked what the next steps are for the Ambassador after his delegation to the UN Assembly successfully pushed through an amendment regarding the G77 group’s stance on global tax rules. Tuggar explained that the fight for tax reform is ongoing, but Nigeria will continue to champion the cause for fairer global tax systems.

In all these, Nigeria is making a bold case for its place in the world. Ambassador Tuggar’s address at Chatham House underscores a nation that refuses to be relegated to the margins of global affairs. From economic reforms to regional stability, from climate diplomacy to multilateral aspirations, Nigeria is positioning itself as both a bridge and a force—one that seeks not only a seat at the table but a voice that carries weight. Yet, ambition must be matched with execution. Reforms at home will determine the credibility of influence abroad. If Nigeria can translate its rhetoric into action, it may well reshape its standing on the global stage.

Dayo Dare, a public policy commentator writes from Abuja.

Violations: FCCPC Files Charges Against MultiChoice

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has formally instituted legal proceedings against MultiChoice Nigeria Limited and its Chief Executive Officer, John Ugbe, for violating regulatory directives, obstructing an ongoing inquiry and engaging in conduct deemed violations of the provisions of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.

MultiChoice Nigeria had been expressly directed by the FCCPC on February 27, 2025 to maintain its current pricing structure for DStv and GOtv pending the conclusion of an examination of its proposed price hike. However, despite this directive, the company proceeded with its price increase on March 1, 2025, in clear defiance of the Commission’s directive.

Following this blatant disregard for regulatory oversight, the FCCPC has filed charges against MultiChoice Nigeria and John Ugbe at the Federal High Court, Lagos Judicial Division, on three counts of offences under the FCCPA 2018, specifically for willfully obstructing the Commission's inquiry by implementing a price hike contrary to directives (Section 33(4)), impeding the ongoing investigation by ignoring instructions to suspend the hike (Section 110), and attempting to mislead the Commission by proceeding with the increase without objection (Section 159(2), punishable under Section 159(4)(a) and (b)).

The Commission views MultiChoice’s actions as a deliberate and calculated attempt to undermine regulatory authority, disrupt market fairness, and deny Nigerian consumers the protection afforded under the law. By disregarding the FCCPC’s directive and implementing the price hike before appearing before the Commission’s investigative hearing on March 6, 2025, MultiChoice has not only flouted regulatory processes but also demonstrated a pattern of conduct that undermines consumer rights and fair competition.

In addition to these legal actions, the FCCPC is reviewing further enforcement measures, including sanctions, penalties, and regulatory interventions, to ensure compliance and accountability.

The FCCPC is committed to protecting Nigerian consumers from exploitative business practices and ensuring that dominant players in any sector adhere to fair market principles and legal compliance.

Ondaje Ijagwu
Director, Corporate Affairs

Security Series: Part 2

Sir David Omand: The pioneer of the Omand Cycle of Intelligence Assessment

In the United Kingdom, one man whose name rings a bell when we talk of security, intelligence and coordination is Sir David Omand. He was the first UK Security and Intelligence Coordinator after the 9/11 attacks, overseeing counterterrorism efforts and intelligence coordination. Before that, he was the Director of GCHQ (the UK’s signals intelligence agency) from 1996 to 1997.

As the UK’s first Security and Intelligence Coordinator (effectively a National Security Adviser) from 2002 to 2005, Sir David Omand played a pivotal role in reshaping Britain’s national security architecture, particularly in response to the post-9/11 threat environment.

Omand is known for his contributions to intelligence analysis, cybersecurity, and crisis management.

As security adviser Sir Omand is renowned for developing a coherent counterterrorism and intelligence coordination framework in the UK. He enhanced collaboration between MI5 (domestic security), MI6 (foreign intelligence), GCHQ (signals intelligence), and law enforcement agencies. His leadership improved cross-agency intelligence sharing and operational coordination, which were critical in countering terrorist threats.

I should emphasize here that one critical role of the National Security Adviser is to coordinate. I have said this time after time. He is the sponge that picks up all the intelligence and extracts the sense in it.

For me, the most consequential legacy of Sir David Omand is his designing of the Omand Cycle. The Omand Cycle, is a framework for structured intelligence assessment that emphasizes the importance of objectivity, political judgment, and ethical considerations.

The Elements of the Omand Cycle

The cycle typically consists of six key stages, each designed to improve the reliability of intelligence and its impact on decision-making:

1. Situational Awareness – Gathering raw intelligence from multiple sources.
2. Pattern Recognition – Identifying trends, and key patterns to determine what is significant.
3. Hypothesis Generation – Developing possible explanations for the observed intelligence.
4. Critical Challenge & Testing – Subjecting the hypotheses to rigorous scrutiny, questioning assumptions, and avoiding biases.
5. Decision Advantage – Presenting intelligence insights to policymakers.
6. Action & Review – Implementing decisions based on intelligence and continuously reassessing their effectiveness.

Reading from the above you would appreciate the vigor that the Omand Cycle recommends in intelligence gathering, analysis and how it influences decisions making.

As a National Security Adviser, the President, and the government in fact relies on the information and advice you bring forward to make decisions that affect the lives of people. Your advice must be fool-proof. It must be thorough, with biases avoided.

Written by Unilag Efiwe.

Bauchi Key to Boosting Food Production; Land Grabbing Must Stop – Tuggar

The Federal Government has launched the Irrigate Nigeria Project under the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund (RHIDF) to enhance food security through modern irrigation.

Speaking in Gamawa, Bauchi State, on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, Foreign Affairs Minister Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar emphasized the project’s role in ensuring year-round farming, increasing food production, and strengthening Nigeria’s agricultural sector. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to food security and economic empowerment.

Tuggar also condemned land grabbing, warning that strict legal measures would be enforced to protect land rights. He called for collaboration among stakeholders to drive agricultural innovation and sustainability.

On behalf of the President, he officially launched the initiative, which is expected to reduce food imports and secure Nigeria’s agricultural future.

Amb Tuggar also used the occasion to distribute bags of rice, motorcycles and environmental friendly cooking stoves to mitigate tree felling in Bauchi State.

— Alkasim Abdulkadir, Special Assistant on Media and Communications Strategy to the Minister of Foreign Affairs

NASENI Press Release

NASENI to Launch Irrigate Nigeria Project Tomorrow

The Gamawa Local Government Area of Bauchi State will come under media spotlight for a positive reason tomorrow, Saturday 1st March 2025, as the historic launching of the “Irrigate Nigeria Project” takes place there by the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) (Presidency) under the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund (RHIDF).

This groundbreaking Federal Government’s initiative is designed to revolutionize irrigation farming, enhance food security, and empower local communities with sustainable agricultural infrastructure.

The initiative tagged “Irrigate Nigeria project” will enhance mechanized farming and has the potential to transform Nigeria’s agriculture by enabling farmers to achieve three rounds of harvests yearly or more, compared to the traditional single-season harvest. This will address the ongoing food scarcity challenge in the country.

The Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of NASENI, Mr Khalil Suleiman Halilu said the initiative would provide farmers with modern irrigation methods using NASENI technologies and equipment for dry-season farming, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s food security agenda.

Tomorrow Saturday’s launch of the Irrigate Nigeria Project comes under the auspices of Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund, a game-changing and transformational initiative that will drive economic growth in agriculture and other critical sectors of the economy.

The launch of Irrigate Nigeria is expected to usher in a sustainable agricultural revolution, foster modern agricultural practices through the use of precision technology, solar irrigation system and other methods to be deployed by NASENI in both small- and large-scale farms across the country.

E-signed
Mr. Olusegun Ayeoyenikan
Director Information
NASENI

Why I Share in Wale Edun’s Optimism On The Nigerian Economy

By Mr. Bernard Okri

Few would dispute that the last 19 months have been some of the most economically turbulent in Nigeria’s history. The removal of fuel subsidies and the harmonisation of the foreign exchange market were two long-overdue reforms that sent shockwaves through the economy. Prices skyrocketed, businesses struggled, and ordinary Nigerians bore the brunt of these changes. But despite the immediate hardships, these reforms were necessary steps towards a more sustainable and self-sufficient economy.

As the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun emphasized recently, the Nigerian economy is finally on a path to stability and long-term growth. And the data supports his optimism. Inflation is declining, food prices are stabilising, and the Naira has found a more predictable footing. More importantly, the fundamentals of the economy are improving.

The decision to remove fuel subsidies and unify the foreign exchange market was a bitter pill to swallow. For years, the subsidy regime drained national resources while benefiting only a small fraction of the population. It discouraged investment in the oil sector and created an artificial economy reliant on government handouts rather than genuine production. Likewise, multiple exchange rates created distortions that deterred foreign investment and encouraged rent-seeking.

These changes—the removal of subsidies and unification of the exchange rate—led to an initial surge in the cost of living. Transport fares increased, the prices of goods and services shot up, and businesses struggled with rising operational costs. However, facts are showing that the economy is now settling into a more natural state—one where prices are determined by market realities rather than government intervention.

Mr. Wale Edun, in a recent interview with African Business Magazine, highlighted key indicators of that show Nigeria’s economic recovery. The stability of the exchange rate since December is one such sign. For the first time in years, investors and businesses can plan with confidence, knowing that the Naira is not subject to abrupt and unpredictable swings.

Based on data from Exchange-Rates.org, the average exchange rate between the US Dollar (USD) and the Nigerian Naira (NGN) over the past two months has been approximately ₦1,595.49 per $1. During this period, the exchange rate reached a high of ₦1,685.62 per $1 on November 27, 2024, and a low of ₦1,491.37 per $1 on February 3, 2025. This is telling that if anything, the price of the dollar, asides maintaining stability, has in fact been on the downward slope—showing that it is getting stronger by the day.

Another significant development is the decline in fuel prices, a rare occurrence in Nigeria’s history. The presence of multiple refineries—including the Dangote Refinery, the recently rehabilitated Port Harcourt Refinery, and the upcoming BUA Refinery—has introduced long-overdue competition into the petroleum sector. The result? Petrol prices have dropped from ₦1,200 per litre to around ₦940, defying the usual trend of relentless price increases. In fact, today we are seeing petroleum marketers advertise their products? Whoever thought that Dangote Refineries would be running adverts on social media asking people to buy its petrol is telling.

One of the strongest indicators of economic improvement is the reduction in food prices. According to market data food prices have seen a notable decline across key staples, signalling a broader economic improvement. This data reveals a sharp decrease in maize prices, dropping by more than 40 percent per metric ton. Rice, a staple in most households, has seen a price reduction of nearly 20 percent per bag.

Fresh produce has also become more affordable. Tomato prices have been cut in half per basket, making a once-costly ingredient more accessible. The most dramatic decline, however, is in onions, which now sell at just over a quarter of their previous price per sack. These shifts in food costs suggest a stabilizing market, offering relief to households grappling with inflation in recent months.

These price corrections are not accidental. They result from deliberate government policies aimed at improving food supply and reducing import dependence. Increased agricultural production and targeted interventions are beginning to bear fruit.

Another positive development is Nigeria’s growing trade surplus, which now stands at ₦5.8 trillion. For years, Nigeria imported more than it exported, depleting foreign reserves and weakening the Naira. Today, the country is selling more to the world than it is buying, strengthening the economy.

Foreign reserves have also grown significantly, reaching $42 billion as of December 2024. This is partly due to the end of fuel subsidies, which previously drained billions of dollars from government coffers. With more foreign exchange available, Nigeria is now better positioned to defend its currency and support economic stability.

Just last year, Nigeria spent 92% of its revenue on servicing debt. It was an unsustainable situation that left little room for development spending. However, with prudent fiscal management, that figure has dropped dramatically. In the 2025 budget, Nigeria is projected to spend less than 20% of its revenue on debt servicing—a monumental improvement when compared to what was spent some few years back.

This means more resources are now available for infrastructure, healthcare, education, and other essential services that directly impact the lives of Nigerians. Take the examples of states that are now receiving at least five times the allocations they were getting pre-subsidy removal.

Perhaps the biggest sign that Nigeria is on the right track is the renewed confidence of foreign investors. Nigeria’s latest Eurobond issuance was oversubscribed by an astounding $9.1 billion—far exceeding the $2.2 billion initially offered. This is a strong vote of confidence in the economic strategy of the Tinubu administration. Investors are taking note of the stability in exchange rates, the growth in foreign reserves, and the improving macroeconomic fundamentals.

There is no denying that Nigerians are still facing challenges. The economic challenges built over the past two decades will take time and strategic efforts to resolve. But there is now a clear strategy in place, and the early results are encouraging. The Honorable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy expressed optimism in his recent interview with African Business Magazine stating that the economy is achieving stability, and inflation is dropping. Mr. Wale Edun’s optimism is not unfounded—it is backed by data and a coherent vision set forth by the President.

The journey to economic recovery is like planting a seed. The soil has been tilled, the seed has been sown, and now, we are beginning to see the first green shoots of growth. With continued patience and commitment to reforms, Nigeria’s economic potential can finally be realised. Indeed there is genuine hope for a more prosperous Nigeria. And that is why I share in Wale Edun’s optimism.


— Mr. Bernard Okri is the President of the Global Economic Policy Initiative (GEPIn)

Shamsudeen Bala Mohammed and Yakubu Adamu: Entagled in a mesh of avarice and corruption.

In recent times, Bauchi State has been embroiled in allegations of corruption implicating high-ranking officials and close associates of the state’s leadership. Central to these allegations is Shamsudeen Bala Mohammed, son of Governor Bala Mohammed, and the Commissioner of Finance, Yakubu Adamu. It is alleged that they have utilized a network of companies to divert state funds for personal enrichment. All in a bid to run for Guber and Senatorial seats in 2027.

Alleged Conduit Companies for Diverting State Funds

1. RZI Ventures Global Resorts: This company is purportedly used to disburse monthly stipends to Shamsudeen and his associates. Owned by a friend of Shamsudeen, it is alleged that the Commissioner of Finance employs this entity for various financial transactions benefiting the governor’s son.

2. Dreamlabs Nigeria Ltd: Owned by another associate of Shamsudeen, this company allegedly had its accounts managed by the Finance Commissioner. Over a span of four years, it functioned as a ‘revenue consultant’ before the commissioner secured his governmental appointment through Shamsudeen’s influence.

3. Courtville Business Solutions: Currently serving as the consulting firm for the state’s revenue and salary payment systems, this company was reportedly introduced by Shamsudeen and Yakubu Adamu.

4. Ayab Agro Allied: Owned and managed by the Commissioner of Finance himself, this company has allegedly received billions in state funds through the aforementioned entities.

These recent allegations are not isolated incidents. In February 2017, Shamsudeen Bala Mohammed faced a 20-count charge of money laundering. He was accused of making cash payments totaling N1.2 billion for property acquisitions in Abuja, violating the Money Laundering Act by not processing these transactions through financial institutions. To conceal the origins of the funds, he allegedly funneled money through companies such as Bird Trust Agro Allied Limited, Intertrans Global Logistic Ltd, Diakin Telecommunications Ltd, and Bal-Vac Mining Nigeria Ltd.

Although he pleaded not guilty and the case was eventually struck out by the Federal High Court in Abuja in 2023 due to insufficient evidence, the shadow of these allegations continues to loom over the state’s leadership.

These developments have sparked public outrage, with citizens and civil society organizations calling for thorough investigations and accountability. The alleged misuse of state funds, coupled with attempts to suppress journalistic inquiry, paints a troubling picture of governance in Bauchi State. It underscores the need for transparency, adherence to the rule of law, and the protection of press freedom to uphold democratic principles and ensure that public office is used for the collective good, not personal gain.

The allegations of corruption in Bauchi State highlight systemic issues that require immediate attention. The purported involvement of high-ranking officials and their associates in diverting state resources, coupled with efforts to intimidate the press, threatens the foundations of good governance and democracy.

It is imperative for relevant authorities to conduct impartial investigations, hold those responsible accountable, and implement measures to prevent such malfeasance in the future. Above all they all must be made to face the music

Nigeria’s Sovereign Might - Between General Joe Garba and Nuhu Ribadu’s Defiant Roar

By
Abdullahi O Haruna Haruspice

In the golden years of Nigerian diplomacy, the world did not condescend to Nigeria. It did not dare. The voice of Nigeria on the global stage was clear, deep, and reverberating. It was the era of Brigadier General Joseph Nanven Garba, a towering diplomat, a soldier of intellect and influence, who never walked into international negotiations as a beggar, nor did he permit Nigeria to be patronized as a second-class entity. When he spoke, the world listened—not out of courtesy but out of the sheer weight of Nigeria’s sovereign authority.

Garba’s tenure as Minister of Foreign Affairs (1975–1978) was an era when Nigeria did not bow to the condescending overtures of Western powers but instead led the vanguard for African liberation, particularly in its relentless opposition to apartheid South Africa. Nigeria was a dominant force in the Organization of African Unity (OAU), dictating the tempo of continental affairs and staring down imperialist policies that sought to keep Africa in chains. He took Nigeria’s case to the United Nations and spoke with the command of a true statesman—eloquent, polished, yet fiercely resolute.

There was a time when nations thought twice before attempting to belittle Nigeria. It was a time when the country was unapologetically assertive. The world saw a nation with immense natural wealth, intellectual capacity, and a leadership that knew how to demand respect. Brigadier Garba embodied that spirit. Whether at the UN, the Non-Aligned Movement, or bilateral engagements with the United States, the UK, or the Soviet Union, Nigeria projected itself as a sovereign equal.

But that era, over the decades, dimmed under the weight of internal struggles, weakened institutions, and economic vulnerabilities. The world, sensing weakness, began to treat Nigeria as a lesser player, ignoring the fact that it remains Africa’s most populous nation and its largest economy.

Fast forward to 2025, and we hear a familiar tone—the kind of unfiltered diplomatic confidence that had been missing for years. This time, it came from Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, in response to the Canadian High Commission’s decision to deny visas to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and other senior military officers. Ribadu, refusing to cower, delivered a blunt and cutting response: Canada "can go to hell."

Those words carried the echoes of Garba’s diplomatic strength. They reminded the world that Nigeria is not a nation to be talked down to or treated with disdain. Canada’s visa snub was not just a bureaucratic oversight; it was a deliberate act of disrespect against the leadership of a country that has been a crucial ally in regional security, trade and economy,and counterterrorism. By responding forcefully, Ribadu sent a clear message: Nigeria will not tolerate insults wrapped in diplomatic niceties.

My hope is that the recent actions of the Tinubu administration; the ambitious $1 billion investment in healthcare, as against the tradition of reliance on handouts; the turning down of a loan offer from the IMF by the Finance minister, and the bold statement by the NSA should serve as cornerstone for a more defiant diplomatic posture.

Sovereign posturing must not exist in a vacuum. To every diplomatic position, there must be a political decision. And every political decision comes with economic consequences. That is what defines social reality. A strong diplomatic stance, if not backed by political will and economic resilience, risks becoming a momentary act of defiance rather than a sustained assertion of national strength. Nigeria must not only speak boldly; it must continue to position itself in such a way that its words translate into real leverage on the global stage.

The international community respects nations that respect themselves. If Nigeria wants to reclaim its place as a formidable force in global affairs, its leaders must embody the spirit of Garba—articulate, bold, and unyielding. But more importantly, they must ensure that diplomacy is tied to economic and political strategies that reinforce national strength. Sovereignty is not just about land and resources; it is about posture, about the refusal to be treated as an inferior, and about ensuring that every diplomatic assertion carries weight beyond rhetoric.

Ribadu’s words may have ruffled diplomatic feathers, but they serve as a much-needed reminder: Nigeria is still a sovereign nation. And sovereignty, when properly asserted and strategically sustained, commands not just respect, but real influence.

Diplomatically Musing

Lessons To Pick From Nuhu Ribadu’s Wake Up Call

Nigeria today boasts of only a handful of statesmen who would take a stand—fearlessly—for the right thing, caring less whose ox is gored. Mallam Nuhu Ribadu is one of those few men who fall within the quarters of this kind of upright standing. Historically, those who know his pedigree can attest.

His remarks, on Thursday at the annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies (AANISS) is proof of this, again. Responding to the remarks of the Chief of Defense Staff, General Christopher Musa, who told the audience that the Canadian High Commission in Nigeria had denied himself and other army chiefs visas to Canada, Mallam Nuhu called out the idiocy of that action without a bluff.

In his words: “They can go to hell. Even though it is painful, it is disrespectful, but we are peaceful and strong, and I agree with you that it is time to fix our country.”

No response could have been more perfect, well-scheduled and effectively delivered to the insult that was the denial of visas to Nigeria’s top brass military commanders by the Canadian High Commission. That country, and its cotravelers in the West who disrespect Africa and Africans, and only see our countries as places where they can poach the best minds and brains to fill their hospitals and schools deserve to go to hell indeed.

Nigeria can no longer afford to kowtow to foolish, derogatory, and contemptuous disrespect in the name of diplomacy. Like America’s President Trump will in fact do, we will call it as it is, and deal with it decisively. Nigeria is nobody’s mate on the African continent. We are Canada’s contemporary by several standards; worse, we run their hospitals, universities and even government for them.

The President of the Canadian Medical Association is Dr. Bolu Ogunyemi, a Canadian-Nigerian physician, who has been an instrumental figure in Canada’s medical community, and has risen to this height. Kaycee Madu, a Nigerian-born lawyer made history by becoming the first Black justice minister and solicitor general in Alberta, Canada. And there are so many others whose businesses, intelligence, and skills are providing Canada with the expertise that keeps their country’s engines running.

That bold statement from the National Security Adviser is the classic Mallam Nuhu that insists on putting the dignity, uprightness and honor of his country above everything else. He is not the type that would sell his dignity for cheap visas to countries that are begging for Nigeria’s talents through shady immigration policies.

Mallam Nuhu Ribadu’s words were those of a patriot calling on his fellow countrymen to see the green pastures within their borders. The grass is not always green on the other side, it is green where you water it, an aphorism says. Indeed, Nigeria has all that it needs to succeed if we simply come together to devote our resources to its development.

Enough of the neocolonialism and veiled slavery that the West is reintroducing today. Nigerians must stand up against that filthy superiority complex that has made us look like servants to the West. That is what Mallam Nuhu was saying: that the denial was a reminder to us that we do not need to go looking for gold in Sokoto, when we have it in our “sòkòtò.”

Nigeria is a country with over 200 million in population. We are a booming marketplace filled with talent and resources. We are a people who cannot be narrowed into a statistics. It is popularly said that Nigerians are not the kinds of people you push to a wall and they give up, because it is either we pull down the wall, or we leap over it. We are a resilient people. Across the world, especially in Western countries today, Nigerians are the leaders running their major businesses, their technological startups, their hospitals, and even their governments in some cases. Today, we are crowned as the largest economy in Africa.

This is a stark reminder of our worth as a people and the very fact that we are more than enough for ourselves. We must stop cheapening our value for the white man, and prove to the world that we are not hungry boys searching for food. But we are self-sufficient and well-equipped to compete globally.

The trajectory of the world today is already showing that countries are taking the direction of self-sufficiency and nationalism. They are looking inwards. America is cutting away aid it sends to developing countries, mostly in Africa. IMF and other lenders are giving loans with excruciating conditions that insult our capacity to think development for ourselves and govern our economies.

General Christopher Musa is the commander of the Defense Forces of the largest population of Africans on earth. With no diplomatic row, it is an insult to the Nigerian government, its people, and our sensibilities that he or other army chiefs were denied a visa.

Like the defibrillator that delivers the electric shock to the human heart to restor life during a cardiac arrest, Nigerians must take Mallam Nuhu Ribadu’s wake up call as a shock that must revive us from our constant undervaluing of ourselves.

Let us take the statesman’s call as one that is right on schedule. Enough is enough to the disrespect dished to Nigerians by the West. Nigerians must begin to see that it is time to, in Mallam Ribadu’s words “work hard to make Nigeria work.”

I never shy way from reminding Nigerians that the countries we are always eager to run to for holidays, medical tourism, jobs or education tourism were built by humans like us. They do not have two skulls. They simply loved their country, invested in it, and fixed their country.

Like Nigeria, too, these countries went through wars and tough times. But they worked hard to build resilient economies that we are today rushing to go and enjoy with them. That is why they look down on us. We must have introspection and change our mindset to one that recognises that the duty of changing Nigeria for the better, transforming its economy in every respect, is the duty of all of us Nigerians.

We would continue to be mocked if we do not work for the development and growth we want to see in our country. That is what Mallam Nuhu Ribadu has said. Our grass is greener when we give it the attention and water it deserves. To hell with the filthy grass of Canada!

Mohammed Abiodun is a historian, and writes from Abuja.

Ambassador Tuggar Leads Nigeria’s Delegation to Secure Key AU Position Through Effective Diplomacy in Addis Ababa

The Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, led Nigeria’s delegation in high-level negotiations and coalition-building efforts to secure a key position within the African Union’s (AU) peace and security architecture. This diplomatic achievement reaffirms Nigeria’s leadership in African diplomacy and its unwavering commitment to continental peace and security.

Through strategic coordination and effective diplomacy, Nigeria secured the re-election of Ambassador Bankole Adeoye as the AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, with an overwhelming 46 out of 48 votes.

Additionally, the country retained its seat on the AU Peace and Security Council (AUPSC), further cementing its influence in shaping Africa’s approach to conflict prevention, governance, and regional stability.

Ambassador Tuggar’s leadership was instrumental in ensuring that Nigeria not only retained its influence within the AUPSC but also reinforced its role in driving the AU’s security and governance agenda.

Ambassador Bankole’s re-election is a resounding vote of confidence in his leadership at the AU, where he has been pivotal in promoting peace initiatives, strengthening democratic governance, and advancing Africa’s security framework.

Despite running unopposed, Nigeria was required to secure at least two-thirds of the votes for Ambassador Bankole’s re-election. The final tally exceeded this threshold, signalling broad acceptance and confidence in Nigeria’s leadership across the continent.

In a press release issued by Alkasim Abdulkadir, media aide to Ambassador Tuggar, he highlighted the Minister’s intensive diplomatic engagement in Addis Ababa. The Nigerian delegation, under Ambassador Tuggar’s guidance, held strategic discussions with African leaders, foreign ministers, and key stakeholders to rally support for Nigeria’s positions.

Furthermore, Nigeria reinforced its partnerships with regional blocs, including ECOWAS, the AU Commission, and international peace and security institutions, showcasing its longstanding commitment to collective security and conflict resolution. The delegation also emphasized Nigeria’s significant contributions to peacekeeping missions, mediation efforts, and democratic governance across Africa.

The successful re-election of Ambassador Bankole and Nigeria’s retention of its AUPSC seat reaffirm the country’s status as a major power in Africa’s peace and security landscape. Over the years, Nigeria has played a leading role in addressing security challenges in the Lake Chad Basin, the Sahel, and the Horn of Africa, contributing significantly to regional stability.

Ambassador Tuggar reiterated Nigeria’s steadfast commitment to the African Union’s Agenda 2063, particularly in achieving the Silencing the Guns initiative, which aims to end conflicts and promote sustainable peace across the continent.

With these diplomatic victories, Nigeria is now well-positioned to influence AU decisions on security, governance, and conflict resolution in the coming years. Ambassador Tuggar’s leadership in securing these strategic positions underscores Nigeria’s proactive approach to diplomacy, ensuring the country remains a key player in shaping Africa’s future through effective engagement and strong institutional representation.

Terrorists on the Run as NSA Ribadu’s Strategy Strangles Bandit Networks

A renewed offensive by Nigeria’s security forces has left terrorists and bandits cornered, with key figures either surrendering, being eliminated, or fleeing into permanent hiding. The latest operations have not only neutralized notorious bandit leaders but have also successfully cut off their arms supply chains, making further insurgent activities increasingly impossible.

This is according to a statement released on Thursday by the Initiative to Save Democracy, and signed by its President, Mr Akinloye James.

“One of the most significant breakthroughs occurred earlier this week when troops of Operation Fansan Yanma in Nasarawa Burkullu, Zamfara State, intercepted and eliminated a high-profile arms supplier. The individual, caught attempting to escape with a cache of weapons, was responsible for equipping bandit groups across the North West.

“This crackdown, combined with the arrest of several other arms traffickers, has starved criminal networks of essential resources.

“Meanwhile, some of the most feared bandits in Katsina State have chosen to lay down their arms, unable to withstand the sustained military onslaught. Those who surrendered included Abu Radda, Umar Black, Abdullahi Lankai, Jijjige, and Dabar Musa Dan Gandu, all of whom once wreaked havoc across Batsari, Safana, and Jibia Local Government Areas.”

The group noted that Bello Turji, a notorious bandit had gone into hiding given the onslaught of the Nigerian military.

“Perhaps the clearest sign of Nigeria’s security gains is the disappearance of Bello Turji, the once-boastful bandit leader who regularly taunted authorities with propaganda videos. For over eight months, he has not surfaced—no messages, no threats, no grandstanding. He has been reduced to a fugitive, hiding as security forces close in on him,” Mr. Akinloye James, Chairman of the Initiative to Save Democracy (ISD) stated.

“The same man who once posted videos of himself terrorizing communities is nowhere to be found. The military’s offensive has shattered his operations, and it is only a matter of time before he is either captured or eliminated.”

James praised the National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu for his strategic leadership and coordination in Nigeria’s fight against banditry.

According to ISD, the turning point in the war against terrorists came under Ribadu’s watch, with better synchronization between intelligence agencies, military forces, and law enforcement units.

“The coordination we see today in the security sector did not exist at this scale before. Under Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, there has been a clear direction, ensuring that intelligence is shared, strategies are aligned, and military operations are executed with precision,” James noted.

The numbers paint a compelling picture: over 8,000 terrorists have been neutralized, more than 11,000 arrested, and tens of thousands of weapons recovered. But beyond statistics, the impact is felt on the ground, where communities once held hostage by criminals are slowly regaining peace.

“The North West is no longer a safe haven for bandits. From Zamfara to Katsina to Sokoto, they are being smoked out and neutralized. Just last week, two major bandit commanders, Kachalla Gwammade and Kachalla Shehu, were taken out by troops of Operation Fansan Yanma under Operation Show No Mercy in Zamfara State. The scale of these operations demonstrates that there is no hiding place left,” James stated.

The group further urged the government to sustain the momentum, ensuring that every last terrorist and bandit is either arrested, eliminated, or forced into submission.

“We commend Mallam Nuhu Ribadu for his decisive coordination of Nigeria’s security forces. His leadership has been pivotal in restoring hope to regions that have long suffered at the hands of criminals. But the work is not yet finished. We urge the government and security agencies to press forward until these bandit networks are completely dismantled,” the statement concluded.

As Turji Enters Into Hiding, Group Praises Armed Forces, Matawalle, On Recent Security Successes

The recent victories recorded by Nigeria’s Armed Forces against terrorists and key bandits in the country have been commended by the Security Watch Network for Good Governance (SecWatchNGG), which has also hailed the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle for his leadership in dealing with Nigeria’s security crisis.

The pro-good governance and security group, in a statement signed by its President, Mallam Abdullahi Fagge on Wednesday, stated that the country had recently recorded a streak of victories against bandits, and this had not gone unnoticed.

“Within the past few months, and more recently the past few days, the Nigerian Armed Forces have been on a winning streak. Only yesterday, we were informed of the surrender of notorious bandits who previously operated in the Batsari, Safana and Jibia Local Government areas of Katsina State. These kingpins included the infamous Abu Radda, Umar Black, Abdullahi Lankai, Jijjige and Dabar Musa Dan Gandu.

“They had no choice but to surrender. The military’s onslaught caught up with them after an intensified operation where they had no where to go to other than to seek peace and disarm.

“A bandit was also captured a few days ago in Sokoto State. He had run out of ammunition while engaging with troops in a gunfight during a midnight raid that was carried out by the armed forces against bandits. Several others were neutralised, and this is the case across the entire North West.”

Mallam Fagge further stated that with the onslaught against bandits in the region, the infamous bandit leader, Bello Turji has since been on the run and would soon be caught by the Nigerian Armed Forces.

“Do you remember Bello Turji? That bandit leader who was always recording videos and boasting about his criminality? Have you heard from him again? In over eight months he has not released a single video. He has entered into a place of permanent hiding while our military are closing in on him.

“We believe that in no time Turji will be history, alongside his criminality across the region.

“Just last week two major wanted bandit leaders, Kachalla Gwammade and Kachalla Shehu, were eliminated by troops of Operation Fansan Yanma, under the ongoing Operation Show No Mercy in Zamfara State.

“It is clear that bandits are being smoked out and annihilated by our armed forces from all angles. The whole of the North West, from Zamfara to Katsina, to Sokoto is no longer a safe for bandits to operate.”

The group also commended the Armed Forces for blocking the logistic supplies of criminal groups, stating that most arms suppliers across the North West had been arrested.

“Earlier this week, we learnt that troops of Operation Fansan Yanma, in Nasarrawa Burkullu, Zamfara State had eliminated an arms supplier who was trying to escape after he had been accosted with a cache of weapons meant for bandits.”

The Security Watch Network for Good Governance commended the Minister of State Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle who it noted is a major player in attaining these successes by ensuring the welfare, equipping and high morale of troops at the war front.

“We must give credit to Minister of State Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle who has shown exceptional commitment to the cause of dealing with banditry in the North West of the country. We recall that it was last year September when he led Defence Chiefs and other security personnel to the region, with the goal of placing a permanent end to banditry that Nigeria began to see these turn around.

“That visit and subsequent ones have led to the elimination of major bandit leaders, neutralising of over 8,000 terrorists, with over 11,000 arrested and tens of thousands of weapons recovered.

“Dr. Bello Matawalle has provided strategic leadership to the Armed Forces, and through his efforts, and the coordinating role of the the National Security Adviser that we are seeing all these victories.”

The group called on the government not to relent until all bandits and terrorists are brought to justice.

Orchestrating Security and Stability: Why the NSA Matters Today More Than Ever

One of the greatest challenges in managing security and its growing complexities is coordination. Who brings the entire apparatus together to focus on a common objective? With an array of tactical units, defense agendas, and political considerations often pulling in different directions, the gap between political leadership and security operations has historically undermined efforts to maintain law and order. Bridging this divide requires a unifying figure capable of harmonizing diverse agendas into coherent action.

The concept of a National Security Adviser (NSA) emerged from the need for effective coordination of security policies and crisis management in an increasingly complex global environment. The roots of this role can be traced to the creation of the National Security Council (NSC) under the United States’ National Security Act of 1947, following World War II. It aimed to streamline decision-making and enhance inter-agency cooperation on national security issues.

The NSA was envisioned as a key figure, with the key role of synthesizing intelligence and providing impartial advice to the President.

Over time, the position became a central pillar in national security frameworks across the world. Countries such as the United Kingdom, India, Russia and Nigeria adapted the role to their unique governance structures, recognizing the importance of a dedicated adviser to oversee and coordinate security strategy.

The role of a National Security Adviser (NSA) is far more than the sum of its parts. It is often described as the nerve center of a country’s security apparatus. Whoever is the NSA is not merely a figure whispering in the ear of the head of government but rather the architect of coordination across a bewildering array of agencies and stakeholders.

At the core of this role lies strategic coordination—a balancing act between defense forces, intelligence services, law enforcement, and increasingly, sectors beyond traditional security domains.

As modern threats evolve, NSAs are thinking beyond battalions and surveillance. Food security, energy stability, and public health have all proven themselves to be just as crucial to national survival as defense strategies. One need look no further than the COVID-19 pandemic to appreciate how the NSA’s remit can extend to supply chains and vaccines.

The job also demands crisis management skills of the highest order. Whether responding to terrorist attacks, civil unrest, or the outbreak of a deadly virus, the NSA must ensure that the entire machinery of government speaks with one voice and acts decisively. The NSA often becomes the critical point of contact when chaos looms, charged with harmonizing fragmented responses and injecting a sense of urgency.

But it’s not all about firefighting. The office is also steeped in policy development, serving as the architect of national security strategies that anticipate emerging threats and prescribe long-term measures to safeguard the nation. Advising the highest echelons of government requires both tact and foresight—a rare combination of skills few possess.

In an age of instant communication and disinformation, public narrative management has become yet another facet of the NSA’s portfolio. Carefully crafted statements, or deliberate silences, can bolster public confidence in uncertain times. Striking the right balance between transparency and secrecy is a delicate art, one that separates competent advisers from clumsy bureaucrats.

There is also the domain of international diplomacy, where NSAs engage with their counterparts across the globe. Security is no longer a purely domestic affair. From forging counterterrorism alliances to brokering ceasefires, NSAs operate as shadow diplomats, shaping global security partnerships and influencing how nations navigate shared threats.

The modern NSA must therefore be part strategist, part diplomat, part crisis manager, and part public manager. It is a role for someone who sees not just the trees but the entire forest—a position that, when occupied by the right person, can safeguard a nation’s present and shape its future.

The influence of National Security Advisers (NSAs) can often be measured by their handling of critical events and their ability to shape national strategy in times of peril. From Cold War brinkmanship to counterterrorism operations, some NSAs have left indelible marks on the security landscapes of their countries — for better or worse.

Take McGeorge Bundy, the cerebral confidant to Presidents John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson, whose tenure defined the high stakes of Cold War diplomacy. Bundy’s deft coordination during the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962 averted a catastrophic nuclear confrontation. By managing the naval blockade and spearheading delicate diplomatic negotiations with the Soviet Union, Bundy’s actions have been credited with keeping the world from the brink. Yet his role in escalating U.S. involvement in Vietnam cast a long shadow, with historians questioning whether his strategic myopia fueled a conflict that devastated Southeast Asia and marred U.S. foreign policy for decades.

In the United Kingdom, Sir David Omand, serving as the first Security and Intelligence Coordinator from 2002 to 2005, laid the foundations for what would become the UK’s National Security Adviser role. His tenure came in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, as the UK grappled with evolving threats. Omand is lauded for modernizing intelligence frameworks and strengthening counterterrorism operations, particularly through enhanced information sharing. However, his staunch advocacy for mass surveillance raised alarms about civil liberties, with critics contending that his approach risked undermining public trust.

Meanwhile, in India, Ajit Doval, a veteran intelligence officer and strategist, reshaped the nation’s security posture under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His tenure has been marked by audacious moves, including the surgical strikes in 2016 following the Uri attack and the Balakot airstrikes in 2019. Doval’s assertive strategies are hailed for projecting strength, yet critics caution that his hardline approach may escalate regional tensions with Pakistan rather than promote long-term stability.

Closer to home in Nigeria, Andrew Azazi faced formidable challenges during his tenure from 2007 to 2012. Tasked with combating the rise of Boko Haram, Azazi attempted to coordinate military operations and bolster intelligence efforts. Despite these efforts, Boko Haram’s influence expanded, leading to widespread criticism of his inability to foster effective inter-agency collaboration or engage meaningfully with affected communities. Analysts argue that a more inclusive strategy—working with all security stakeholders—might have mitigated the insurgency’s devastating impact.

These figures, each navigating their nation’s unique security terrain, exemplify the complexity of the NSA role. Success demands a careful balancing act between assertive action and long-term stability, strategic foresight, and public accountability. The lessons from their tenures remain instructive for future occupants of this critical office.

Dahiru Bashir Hassan is a security researcher and writes from the FCT

10 Things Mr. Wale Edun said about Nigeria’s economy on his African Business Magazine Interview

Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun spoke with the London-based African Business Magazine on the plans of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to turn-around the Nigerian economy.

In his interview he expresses optimism that the government is on the right track and making the right decisions that would reap benefits in both the short and long term.

Here are 10 major highlights from that interview:
1. He is optimistic about Nigeria’s economic trajectory and that Nigeria will experience economic stability in 2025:

“Without any doubt, I am very optimistic about our nation’s economic trajectory, not only in 2025 but beyond. In the year ahead we expect to see an acceleration of economic growth coupled with a reduction in the rate of increase of prices. These expectations are reflected in the Medium Term Expenditure Framework and the Fiscal Strategy Paper approved by the legislature. It is noteworthy that we are not the only ones who have this expectation. Projections provided by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank and other forecasters agree that growth will improve and inflation will slow. In 2025, the issues around economic stability will be largely resolved.”

2. One of his goals for 2025 is to reduce inflation, and keep it low. He wants the prices of things to go down. He also says that inflation is dropping due to some of the policies and initiatives of the government that are working:

“Perhaps the biggest issue with stabilising our economy is to reduce inflation and keep it low. We are clear that very significant progress will be achieved in this regard in the months ahead. If nothing else, we expect the downward path of fuel prices, a major element in stoking higher prices, to continue. The current downward trend results from the combination of enhanced domestic refining capacity provided by the Dangote refinery, stable exchange rate, and our policy to sell crude oil to domestic refiners in naira. These have all contributed to the turnaround in fuel prices. We expect to see further reductions in the year ahead as the combination of factors above is further strengthened by additional refining capacity from government-owned refineries and the BUA Group becoming effective. We also expect a significantly slower increase in food prices to contribute to lower inflation.”

3. Mr. Edun notes that these reforms were inevitable if the administration was going to unlock value from the economy. While according to him: “the costs must be borne before the benefits manifest,” the biggest worry of the administration is the welfare of the vulnerable:

“The reforms, as we have always contended, were inevitable if we are to unlock the potentials of this country and make the growth and development progress we need. The challenge with reforms of this nature is that the costs must be borne before the benefits manifest. Our biggest and ongoing challenge in this regard lies in ensuring adequate protection for vulnerable fellow Nigerians. Though now improving, this has been an uphill task – made more onerous by the absence of a universally acceptable database. We are however now finding resolution to the various issues that have dogged the acceptance of the database of vulnerable Nigerians. Our direct benefit transfers have now reached approximately 20m Nigerians. We expect to make even more rapid progress in these disbursements in Q1 2025.”
He further says that:

“In the immediate term we will concentrate on addressing our pain points around enabling protection for vulnerable citizens, sharply improving food supply, reducing costs, and supporting key sectors to grow even faster than they are presently doing.”

4. The President Bola Tinubu administration is working to build trust and the confidence of both domestic and foreign stakeholders, while deploying measures to ensure transparency of government financial transactions:

“Building trust capital is fundamental to restoring the confidence of all stakeholders – domestic or foreign. Before dealing with the issue of foreign exchange reserves, it is important to draw attention to some of the measures taken to ensure transparency and predictability: deploying technology towards eliminating leakages and opaqueness in government financial transactions. We have seen a significant reduction in leakages.”

5. As at December 2024, Nigeria’s foreign reserves stood at $42bn. Mr Edun argues that this growth is as a result of the government not paying fuel subsidies, among other factors.:

“Foreign reserves stood at $42bn on 14 December. While this is an area for CBN commentary, I am happy to see the steady improvement in our reserves. This is perhaps not surprising given that the surplus on our current account balance has continued to improve with portfolio investor inflows and remittances.

It is noteworthy that the reserves have continued to grow in a year when, until recently, payment of fuel subsidies meant that the CBN was not a direct beneficiary of proceeds from crude oil exports. It is important to state that our expectation of improvements in crude oil production will improve the availability of foreign exchange to the economy. It is also important to draw attention to the emerging oil refining sector of our economy and its potential for improving both domestic value addition and also generating export income for our nation.”

6. By paying trapped monies and settling Nigeria’s outstanding debts, and reforming the foreign exchange market, the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration has created greater confidence in Nigeria’s financial system with a more stable exchange rate:

“An area that has been of concern is our financial system – especially the market for foreign exchange. The new team at the CBN led by the Governor, Yemi Cardoso, has instituted a wide range of reform measures which have reversed the adverse impression about the safety and reliability of our financial system. Ensuring payment of “trapped” monies and settling outstanding debts, and various reforms of the foreign exchange market and its requirement for capital enhancement by banks, have resulted in greater confidence in our financial system. With the government staying strictly within the legal bounds in its use of borrowing from the Central Bank, the growth in liquidity has been curtailed. All of these have resulted in a more stable exchange rate.”

7. The government has top of its agenda the goal of reaching the most vulnerable. Stimulating growth in the agriculture sector is also top on the agenda, to tackle issues of food security:

“As I have noted, we still have a way to go in reaching the most vulnerable in our society. The cash transfer programme has reached approximately one-third of the intended recipients. This is far from satisfactory. We have identified the issues and are working to ensure that all intended recipients are covered as soon as possible.
Of course access to food is a major component of quality of life for our citizens. Even though the agricultural output is improving, with 1.1% growth between July and September 2024, this is too slow to enable us feed our citizens and our sub-regional compatriots. We are working to stimulate growth in the agriculture sector to increase beyond the rate of population increase.”


8. The President Bola Tinubu administration is working to raise the contribution of the processing sectors to the national economy. He believes that Nigeria must begin to produce for both the domestic and international markets:

“We are clear about the importance of being able to produce for the domestic and international markets. We will be unable to benefit from the opportunities inherent in the AfCFTA if we cannot produce competitively. Indeed, one of the trends in the Nigerian economy that we must work to improve is the almost stagnant contribution of our processing sectors to our national output. We need the processing sectors – manufacturing, construction, utilities – to raise their contribution to the national economy, perhaps at a minimum to double the current levels.
I do sometimes wonder whether we are import dependent. What is the benchmark for classifying a nation as import dependent? With imports at less than 20% of national output, we compare favourably with sub-regional and continental peers. Some African countries have import levels as high as half their national output. I concede that we are not transforming our imports into exports. This underscores the importance of national champions; but the appropriate agencies must ensure that dominance of domestic markets is not to our national disadvantage.”

9. Nigeria’s domestic refining capacity is increasing tremendously, Mr. Edun notes in this interview. He argues that with more refineries coming on board, as well as an increase in the country’s manufacturing activities, importation would be moderated and Nigeria’s current balance of payments would be improved:
“The Dangote Group plays in major sectors of the economy, among other leading manufacturers. Improving the manufacturing sector is a major focus of this administration, to moderate manufactured goods imports and improve the current account balance for reserves accretion. Dangote Group has commenced petroleum motor spirit production, with 650,000 barrels capacity. This will be complemented by the BUA Group refinery with 250,000 barrels capacity that will come on stream soon. These developments take a major demand pressure off foreign exchange. Thus, the increased domestic refining capacity, coupled with other manufacturing activities, will help to moderate importation, improving our current account balance and the balance of payments.”

10. Oversubscription to Nigeria’s Eurobond at $9.1bn shows not just the country’s successful return to the global market, but also indicates that the country is now a profitable investment destination. It denotes confidence in President Tinubu’s economic strategy, Mr Edun says:

“The oversubscription of our latest Eurobond at $9.1bn (instead of $2.2bn) indicates our successful return to the global market and showcases Nigeria as a profitable investment destination. Note that the Russia-Ukraine war occasioned global contractionary monetary policy to combat global inflation, and this moderated the attractiveness of developing economies’ Eurobonds in the global market.
It further signals improved confidence in the President’s economic strategy; improved confidence in the economy generally; confidence in the debt repayment capacity of the economy; and that the presidential investment targets directive to ministries, departments and agencies, with the expected improvement in the growth trajectory of the economy, will help investment opportunities and reduce risks.”

10 Things Mr. Wale Edun said about Nigeria’s economy on his African Business Magazine Interview
Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun spoke with the London-based African Business Magazine on the plans of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to turn-around the Nigerian economy.
In his interview he expresses optimism that the government is on the right track and making the right decisions that would reap benefits in both the short and long term.
Here are 10 major highlights from that interview:
1. He is optimistic about Nigeria’s economic trajectory and that Nigeria will experience economic stability in 2025:
“Without any doubt, I am very optimistic about our nation’s economic trajectory, not only in 2025 but beyond. In the year ahead we expect to see an acceleration of economic growth coupled with a reduction in the rate of increase of prices. These expectations are reflected in the Medium Term Expenditure Framework and the Fiscal Strategy Paper approved by the legislature. It is noteworthy that we are not the only ones who have this expectation. Projections provided by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank and other forecasters agree that growth will improve and inflation will slow. In 2025, the issues around economic stability will be largely resolved.”
2. One of his goals for 2025 is to reduce inflation, and keep it low. He wants the prices of things to go down. He also says that inflation is dropping due to some of the policies and initiatives of the government that are working:
“Perhaps the biggest issue with stabilising our economy is to reduce inflation and keep it low. We are clear that very significant progress will be achieved in this regard in the months ahead. If nothing else, we expect the downward path of fuel prices, a major element in stoking higher prices, to continue. The current downward trend results from the combination of enhanced domestic refining capacity provided by the Dangote refinery, stable exchange rate, and our policy to sell crude oil to domestic refiners in naira. These have all contributed to the turnaround in fuel prices. We expect to see further reductions in the year ahead as the combination of factors above is further strengthened by additional refining capacity from government-owned refineries and the BUA Group becoming effective. We also expect a significantly slower increase in food prices to contribute to lower inflation.”
3. Mr. Edun notes that these reforms were inevitable if the administration was going to unlock value from the economy. While according to him: “the costs must be borne before the benefits manifest,” the biggest worry of the administration is the welfare of the vulnerable:
“The reforms, as we have always contended, were inevitable if we are to unlock the potentials of this country and make the growth and development progress we need. The challenge with reforms of this nature is that the costs must be borne before the benefits manifest. Our biggest and ongoing challenge in this regard lies in ensuring adequate protection for vulnerable fellow Nigerians. Though now improving, this has been an uphill task – made more onerous by the absence of a universally acceptable database. We are however now finding resolution to the various issues that have dogged the acceptance of the database of vulnerable Nigerians. Our direct benefit transfers have now reached approximately 20m Nigerians. We expect to make even more rapid progress in these disbursements in Q1 2025.”
He further says that:

“In the immediate term we will concentrate on addressing our pain points around enabling protection for vulnerable citizens, sharply improving food supply, reducing costs, and supporting key sectors to grow even faster than they are presently doing.”
4. The President Bola Tinubu administration is working to build trust and the confidence of both domestic and foreign stakeholders, while deploying measures to ensure transparency of government financial transactions:
“Building trust capital is fundamental to restoring the confidence of all stakeholders – domestic or foreign. Before dealing with the issue of foreign exchange reserves, it is important to draw attention to some of the measures taken to ensure transparency and predictability: deploying technology towards eliminating leakages and opaqueness in government financial transactions. We have seen a significant reduction in leakages.”
5. As at December 2024, Nigeria’s foreign reserves stood at $42bn. Mr Edun argues that this growth is as a result of the government not paying fuel subsidies, among other factors.:
“Foreign reserves stood at $42bn on 14 December. While this is an area for CBN commentary, I am happy to see the steady improvement in our reserves. This is perhaps not surprising given that the surplus on our current account balance has continued to improve with portfolio investor inflows and remittances.
It is noteworthy that the reserves have continued to grow in a year when, until recently, payment of fuel subsidies meant that the CBN was not a direct beneficiary of proceeds from crude oil exports. It is important to state that our expectation of improvements in crude oil production will improve the availability of foreign exchange to the economy. It is also important to draw attention to the emerging oil refining sector of our economy and its potential for improving both domestic value addition and also generating export income for our nation.”
6. By paying trapped monies and settling Nigeria’s outstanding debts, and reforming the foreign exchange market, the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration has created greater confidence in Nigeria’s financial system with a more stable exchange rate:
“An area that has been of concern is our financial system – especially the market for foreign exchange. The new team at the CBN led by the Governor, Yemi Cardoso, has instituted a wide range of reform measures which have reversed the adverse impression about the safety and reliability of our financial system. Ensuring payment of “trapped” monies and settling outstanding debts, and various reforms of the foreign exchange market and its requirement for capital enhancement by banks, have resulted in greater confidence in our financial system. With the government staying strictly within the legal bounds in its use of borrowing from the Central Bank, the growth in liquidity has been curtailed. All of these have resulted in a more stable exchange rate.”

7. The government has top of its agenda the goal of reaching the most vulnerable. Stimulating growth in the agriculture sector is also top on the agenda, to tackle issues of food security:
“As I have noted, we still have a way to go in reaching the most vulnerable in our society. The cash transfer programme has reached approximately one-third of the intended recipients. This is far from satisfactory. We have identified the issues and are working to ensure that all intended recipients are covered as soon as possible.
Of course access to food is a major component of quality of life for our citizens. Even though the agricultural output is improving, with 1.1% growth between July and September 2024, this is too slow to enable us feed our citizens and our sub-regional compatriots. We are working to stimulate growth in the agriculture sector to increase beyond the rate of population increase.”


8. The President Bola Tinubu administration is working to raise the contribution of the processing sectors to the national economy. He believes that Nigeria must begin to produce for both the domestic and international markets:
“We are clear about the importance of being able to produce for the domestic and international markets. We will be unable to benefit from the opportunities inherent in the AfCFTA if we cannot produce competitively. Indeed, one of the trends in the Nigerian economy that we must work to improve is the almost stagnant contribution of our processing sectors to our national output. We need the processing sectors – manufacturing, construction, utilities – to raise their contribution to the national economy, perhaps at a minimum to double the current levels.
I do sometimes wonder whether we are import dependent. What is the benchmark for classifying a nation as import dependent? With imports at less than 20% of national output, we compare favourably with sub-regional and continental peers. Some African countries have import levels as high as half their national output. I concede that we are not transforming our imports into exports. This underscores the importance of national champions; but the appropriate agencies must ensure that dominance of domestic markets is not to our national disadvantage.”
9. Nigeria’s domestic refining capacity is increasing tremendously, Mr. Edun notes in this interview. He argues that with more refineries coming on board, as well as an increase in the country’s manufacturing activities, importation would be moderated and Nigeria’s current balance of payments would be improved:
“The Dangote Group plays in major sectors of the economy, among other leading manufacturers. Improving the manufacturing sector is a major focus of this administration, to moderate manufactured goods imports and improve the current account balance for reserves accretion. Dangote Group has commenced petroleum motor spirit production, with 650,000 barrels capacity. This will be complemented by the BUA Group refinery with 250,000 barrels capacity that will come on stream soon. These developments take a major demand pressure off foreign exchange. Thus, the increased domestic refining capacity, coupled with other manufacturing activities, will help to moderate importation, improving our current account balance and the balance of payments.”
10. Oversubscription to Nigeria’s Eurobond at $9.1bn shows not just the country’s successful return to the global market, but also indicates that the country is now a profitable investment destination. It denotes confidence in President Tinubu’s economic strategy, Mr Edun says:
“The oversubscription of our latest Eurobond at $9.1bn (instead of $2.2bn) indicates our successful return to the global market and showcases Nigeria as a profitable investment destination. Note that the Russia-Ukraine war occasioned global contractionary monetary policy to combat global inflation, and this moderated the attractiveness of developing economies’ Eurobonds in the global market.
It further signals improved confidence in the President’s economic strategy; improved confidence in the economy generally; confidence in the debt repayment capacity of the economy; and that the presidential investment targets directive to ministries, departments and agencies, with the expected improvement in the growth trajectory of the economy, will help investment opportunities and reduce risks.”

Nigeria’s Economy On The Rise As Wale Edun Showcases Progress To First Abu Dhabi Bank Delegation

The Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, has stated that the country’s economy is on the rise with great investment opportunities.

The Minister disclosed this today in his office in Abuja when he met with a high-level delegation from First Abu Dhabi Bank, led by the Group Head of Investment Banking, Martin Tricaud, to discuss investment opportunities and strategic partnerships.

HM Edun highlighted Nigeria’s economic transformation over the past 18 months, citing key reforms such as market-driven pricing for foreign exchange and petroleum, increased trade through AfCFTA, and stronger revenue from both oil and non-oil sectors.

He noted that these measures have stabilised the economy, improved GDP growth, and strengthened the trade balance.

The progress we have made in stabilising the economy and driving growth is a testament to our administration’s commitment to economic reform. Stressing that, we are eager to showcase these opportunities to investors and partners, like First Abu Dhabi Bank.

The Minister also emphasised efforts to boost food production and affordability, ensuring long-term economic resilience.

The meeting marks a significant step in Nigeria’s efforts to attract foreign investment and strengthen economic ties with key partners.

With Nigeria’s economy poised for continued growth, this partnership with First Abu Dhabi Bank is expected to unlock new opportunities for investment, job creation, and economic development.

AMINU GAMAWA’S MORAL DECLINE: From Social Activist, to Pro-Corruption Defender

By Ibrahim Adamu Gamawa

About ten years ago, young and aspiring lawyers would have heard the name Aminu Gamawa, a lawyer of northern extraction who was cutting his teeth in academia and establishing himself as a soon-to-be star in policy development. Many of those around him saw him as an anti-corruption advocate with a penchant for honesty, truth, and facts.

Today, all those honors and accolades have been dropped by Dr. Aminu Gamawa into the bin for cheap Naira. Dr. Gamawa, a once highly sought-after young legal luminary, has now sold his character, dignity, and integrity for loyalty to the purse of Bauchi State.

I was ashamed of him when I read his rather watery and dodgy response to Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, defending allegations against his boss, Bala Mohammed. The Aminu Gamawa of ten years ago would never have taken such a position. That man, then a fan of anti-corruption czars, took the ideals of puritanical decency seriously. Today, he is slaving to his boss and forgetting the credo he once stood for. It is a shame.

Indeed, I perfectly understand that Bala Mohammed is his boss, and it is only fair that he would stand by him. But again, I ask does he not have an iota of shame?

In his shameful treatise, Aminu Gamawa talked about his party winning elections, he forgets that his boss did not win the 2023 gubernatorial election in Gamawa? He has not asked himself that perhaps it is because of people like him who were not adding value to people lives that his boss could not win in Gamawa? By the way, I must put it on record that the APC won the House of Representatives seat and the State Assembly and only one State Assembly seat for PDD in Gamawa.

Coming back home, the flood disaster of 2024 that devastated the Gamawa Local Government is a pointer to the kind of leadership and representation people like Aminu Gamawa offer in Bala Mohammed’s Government in Bauchi State. As a son of this constituency did you even visit to commiserate with the people? What about palliatives and other measures to resettle and cushion the effect of that monumental disaster? At least the Minister and members House of Representatives visited and offered various kinds of relief.

We remember vividly all those pictures of dilapidated classrooms in Bauchi State you used to show us on Facebook, depicting the rot that you said the state had become. Are they not there anymore? Has anything changed since then?

There is also the issue of the grazing reserve allocation to Tiamin Rice which cannot just be defended. Firstly, the rice mill is located in Bauchi almost 250km away as if there is no available land in Bauchi South? What kind of business sense is this? Is it because we don’t have a voice in your Government because of people like you?

Tiamin Rice will never use this land for the intended purpose; you and I know that the certificate would likely be used for other purposes.

As a right-thinking lawyer shouldn’t these cases of land grab and its security implications for Gamawa, considering the farmers-herders clashes all over the country not be of concern to you? But Dr. Aminu Gamawa has lost his sense of shame and moral clarity. Dr. Aminu Gamawa must remember where he is coming from. He must remember that this political office, which he has chosen to stain his garment with, will come to an end very soon; but the dirt and impurities that he has soiled himself with will never leave him.

He has become an object of shame to those who know his history of decency.

Dr. Aminu Gamawa, in his response to Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, talked about the Governor’s transformational leadership. I am still looking for what Dr. Gamawa is referring to as transformational in Bauchi State. Just take a census of primary school teachers in any Local Government in the state. Or is it the lack of infrastructure across the length and breadth of Bauchi?

In fact, it smacks of irresponsibility and the height of disrespect that Aminu Gamawa would pen a shambolic response to Ambassador Tuggar, who is not his equal in any measure. His position as a mere Chief of Staff to a Governor has so gotten into his head that he has forgotten where he is. Where was he in 2007 when Ambassador Tuggar was a Member of Nigeria’s House of Representatives.

Again, I must remind Aminu Gamawa that this cheap role he has taken on is transient. The best he may get out of it is easy money. But he will pay the price by having no integrity or honor to fall back on when Bala Mohammed’s tenure comes to an end.


Ibrahim Adamu Gamawa is the Special Assistant to Hon. Adamu Gamawa
Member representing Gamawa Federal Constituency at the National Assembly.