Tinubu Appoints Nwakuche As Acting CG of NCoS, as Nababa Bows Out

Haliru Nababa

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Mr. Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, MFR as the acting Controller General (CG) of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS). 

This followed the expiration of the tenure of the outgoing CG, Mr. Haliru Nababa. 

The appointment was announced in a statement issued by the Secretary to the Civil Defence, Immigration, Fire Service and Correctional Service Board, (CDCFIB), Mr. Ja’afaru Ahmed, on Friday, December 13, 2024. He noted that the appointment takes effect from Sunday, December 15.

Mr. Ahmed disclosed that Mr. Nwakuche’s appointment was a testament to his wealth of experience and dedication to the Service. 

He stated that Chief Tinubu charged the new NCoS boss to bring his wealth of experience to bear in his new capacity and ensure the continued transformation of the service.

Mr. Nwakuche, who hails from Oguta LGA in Imo State and was born on November 26, 1966, until his appointment, was the Deputy Controller General of NCoS in charge of Training and Staff Development Directorate, where he played a crucial role in shaping the training and development policies of the service. 

He is a Fellow of the prestigious National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), as well as a well-decorated and notable officer, who holds the national honour of Member of the Federal Republic (MFR).

Kemi Badenoch Slams Shettima Over Call To Drop Nigerian Name

Kemi Badenoch, the United Kingdom (UK)-born Conservative Party leader, has replied Vice-President, Kashim Shettima over call to drop her Nigerian name. 

It could be recalled that during her recent visit to the United States, Badenoch had described Nigeria as “a place where almost everything seemed broken.” She added that there were instability and corruption in Nigeria.

In a swift reaction during his Speech on Migration in Abuja, the Nigeria’s capital city, Shettima described her comment as disrespectful. He said Badenoch might “remove the Kemi from her name if she did not feel pride in her “nation of origin.” 

He therefore Compared Badenoch with the UK’s first prime minister, of Indian descent, Mr. Rishi Sunak. He enthused that Sunak never denigrated his nation of ancestry. 

In a reply to the Vice-President, a spokesperson for Badenoch said that she “stands by what she says” and emphasized that “she is not Nigeria’s public relations representative.” 

“She leads the opposition and takes great pride in her role in this country; she speaks the truth, and she presents things as they are and will not soften her words,” he told reporters.

BREAKING: Dangote Refinery Exports Petrol to Cameroon

The Dangote refinery and Neptune Oil have jointly announced the first-ever export of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), otherwise known as petrol, from the refinery in Lagos State, Nigeria to Cameroon.

The Management of the Dangote refinery made this known in a statement on Wednesday, December 11, 2024.

The refinery stated that the milestone, resulting from a strategic collaboration between the two companies, underscored their commitment to strengthening economic ties between Nigeria and Cameroon while meeting the region’s growing energy demands.

Speaking on the development, the President and CEO of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, said: “This first export of PMS to Cameroon is a tangible demonstration of our vision for a united and energy-independent Africa.

“With this development, we are laying the foundation for a future where African resources are refined and exchanged within the continent for the benefit of our people.”

The Director and Owner of Neptune Oil, Antoine Ndzengue, stated: “This partnership with Dangote Refinery marks a turning point for Cameroon.

“By becoming the first importer of petroleum products from this world-class refinery, we are bolstering our country’s energy security and supporting local economic development. This initial supply, executed without international intermediaries, reflects our commitment to serving our markets independently and efficiently.”

The statement added that the collaboration between Dangote Refinery and Neptune Oil would not end with this first export.

“Both companies are exploring new initiatives to establish a reliable supply chain that will help stabilise fuel prices and create new economic opportunities across the region,” it noted.

BREAKING: National Grid Collapses For 12th Time in 2024

The National Grid has once again collapsed on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, leading to a total blackout across the country.

The system collapse, which is the 12th time in 2024, occurred at about 1:30 p.m. on the said date.

The Nigeria National Grid confirmed the grid collapse via a post on its X account.

“Major grid setback has occurred! Restoration to commence,” it stated.

The system collapse was also confirmed by Ikeja Electric.

A statement issued by the electricity distribution company read: “Dear esteemed customer, please be informed that we experienced a system outage today 11 December, 2024 at 01:32 p.m. affecting supply within our network.

“Restoration of supply is ongoing in collaboration with our critical stakeholders. Kindly bear with us."

Edo State Governor presents 2025 Appropriation Bill, raising uproar in the State’s Assembly.

Tinubu Appoints Ogunjimi As Nigeria's Acting AGF

President Bola Tinubu has appointed Mr Shamseldeen Babatunde Ogunjimi as the Nigeria’s acting Accountant General of the Federation (AGF).

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga announced this in a statement from the State House on Tuesday, December 10, 2024.

Onanuga noted that Ogunjimi’s appointment is effective immediately following the pre-retirement leave of the incumbent AGF, Dr Mrs Oluwatoyin Madein.

After reaching the civil service’s statutory retirement age,Dr. Madein is retiring effective March 7, 2025.

Onanuga stated that Tinubu, in announcing Madein’s successor, ensured a seamless transition in the administration of Nigeria’s treasury and consolidated the implementation of the present administration’s treasury policy reforms.

Tinubu expressed confidence in Ogunjimi, saying: “The Office of the Accountant General of the Federation is pivotal to our nation’s treasury management operations.

“Mr Ogunjimi’s wealth of experience and notable competence will ensure the continued effectiveness of this vital institution as we advance our economic reform agenda.”

Tinubu also commended Madein for her “dedication and selfless service to the nation”.

The statement added: “As a career civil servant and the most senior director in the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF), Ogunjimi brings over 30 years of extensive experience in financial management across the public and private sectors.

“He has held significant positions, including Director of Funds at the OAGF and Director of Finance and Accounts at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

“A chartered accountant, certified fraud examiner, chartered stockbroker, and chartered security and investment specialist, Ogunjimi’s academic qualifications include a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Accountancy and a Master’s in Finance and Accounting.”

Tinubu Appoints New NUC Boss, Others

President Bola Tinubu has appointed new heads for various MDAs, namel: the National Universities Commission (NUC), the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), the Solid Minerals Development Fund / Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative (SMDF/PAGMI), and the New Partnership for Africa Development (NEPAD), as was announced on 6th Decembe, 2024 from the State House.

Prof. Abdullahi Yusuf Ribadu, a visiting professor at the NUC, is the agency's Executive Secretary.

Prof. Salisu Shehu is the Executive Secretary of the NERDC.

Jabiru Salisu Abdullahi Tsauri is the National Coordinator of NEPAD.

Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani was appointed as the Executive Secretary of the SMDF/PAGMI.

Prof. Ribadu is an expert in veterinary reproduction and has served as vice chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Yola, and the Sule Lamido University, Jigawa State.

Prof. Shehu is a renowned academic in educational and human Psychology. He was instrumental in establishing the School of Continuing Education at Bayero University, Kano, and was the Vice-Chancellor of Al-Istiqamah University, Kano.

Jabiru Tsauri holds a Master’s in International Affairs and Diplomacy from Ahmadu Bello University. He is a seasoned administrator with expertise in legislative affairs, global affairs, and democratic governance and vast experience in public service.

Yazid Danfulani holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and a Master’s in Arts and Management from the University of Hertfordshire in the United Kingdom.

He has extensive experience in Banking, Computing, and Business Administration. He once worked at the Central Bank of Nigeria and was also a Commissioner for Commerce and Industry in Zamfara State.

The President believes the appointees’ experience and track record will bring a new sense of commitment, progress, and positive outcomes to fulfil Nigerians’ expectations in their respective organisations.

CBN Provides Phone Numbers for Customers to Report Scarcity of Money in ATMs

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has released telephone numbers for bank customers to report difficulties experienced while trying to withdraw cash over the counter or via the Automated Teller Machines (ATMs).

The CBN announced this through a circular released on Tuesday, 3rd December 2024.

In recent times, bank customers have experienced difficulty trying to get cash from banks’ ATMs and Point of Sale (POS) agents. This has resulted in a hike in withdrawal charges by some of the POS operators.

It could be recalled that while speaking at the recent Annual Bankers’ Dinner held in Lagos State, the CBN Governor, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso urged Nigerians to report difficulties withdrawing cash from bank branches or ATMs to the apex bank from December 1, 2024. The CBN, in a circular jointly signed by its acting Director of Currency Operations, Mr. Solaja Olayemi, and the acting Director of Branch Operations, Mrs. Isa-Olatinwo Aisha, provided telephone numbers to help address customers’ challenges.

The apex bank stated: “Please refer to the various engagements and interventions from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on the above subject aimed at addressing efficient and optimal currency circulation in the economy. “As part of these ongoing efforts, we would like to draw your attention to the following directives and Guidelines:

“Deposit Money Banks (DMBs): DMBs are directed to ensure efficient cash disbursement to customers Over-the-Counter (OTC) and through ATMs as the CBN will intensify its oversight roles to enforce this directive and ensure compliance.

“General Public Reporting: Members of the public who are unable to obtain cash Over-the-Counter or through ATMs at DMBs, are encouraged to report these instances using the designated reporting channels and format provided below.

“This will assist CBN in addressing issues hindering the availability of cash and further improve currency circulation.”

To make a report of a bank branch or ATM not dispensing cash, the CBN said affected customers are to provide the relevant details which include, “account name/name of the DMB/amount /time and date of Incident(s) amongst others via the following dedicated channels.”

The CBN added: “Phone Call: Designated phone number(s) of the CBN branch in the state where the incident(s) occurred.

DISSECTING NIGERIA'S BORROWING SYNDROME

by FRED NWAOZOR

Taking into cognizance the trend of events among Nigeria’s entities and individuals, one might be quick to assert that the country is synonymous with borrowing. On the other hand, someone might also be of the view that no one could currently live or survive in Nigeria without indulging in borrowing.

Penultimate week, precisely on 19th November 2024, the leadership of the National Assembly (NASS) announced to its members during plenary the receipt of a letter from the Presidency, requesting to borrow the sum of 2.2 billion dollars externally. In the letter, the President expressed that the targeted fund was for the complete implementation of the 2024 budget. He therefore stated that the appeal was in line with the provisions of Sections 21 (1) and 27 (1) of the Debt Management Office (DMO) Act, 2003 and the approval of the Federal Executive Council (FEC).

The President further clarified that the proposed loan of #1.7 trillion naira, equivalent to about $2.2bn at the 2024 budget exchange rate of “one dollar to #800, was to partly finance the budget deficit of #9.179trn. He disclosed the fund was needed to give more strength to the ongoing projects and programmes’ implementation as enshrined in the said budget, which were designed to stabilize the economy.

According to him, the key projects to which the proceeds would be deployed formed priority sectors of the country’s economy, such as power, transport, agriculture, defence, and security. He added it would equally increase the accrual to the external reserves as the proceeds would be directly received into the account of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), thereby supporting the naira exchange rate.

Without equivocations, borrowing has become a norm among not just Nigerian political leaders, but on the African continent at large. It’s ostensibly endemic in our bloodstream, that, successive leaders have seen it as the only means of survival for any government in power. This is, no doubt, a pitiable point we have collectively found ourselves as a people.

I beg to be corrected; this isn’t the first time the incumbent administration would request for a loan to finance a budget, barely a year plus it came on board. Yet, some defenders of the government are busy trying to convince credulous Nigerians that the President has been more concerned about servicing the country’s already-incurred debt. I wonder how we intend to reconcile a situation whereby an individual or entity is servicing an incurred debt, but still requests to borrow more money to finance his/its budget for a given fiscal year.

Aside the fact that such a scenario, as mentioned above, appears or sounds paradoxical, it simply seems not unlike a situation where the led are being told by their leaders that more employment opportunities would be created for the citizens, yet most of those who are already gainfully employed are being relieved of their various jobs unannounced, citing inability of the government to sustain their wages.

It’s quite ridiculous and unheard of, that, when the Nigerian debt index has abruptly triggered to over 120 trillion naira, the government still possesses the moral ground to seek additional loan, not even internally but externally. Sometimes, I do not hesitate to ask myself how the lenders see or perceive Nigeria among the Comity of Nations, because If I were in their shoes, I wouldn’t further release any dime to the country in the name of lending. One who regularly borrows but refused to refund, or has no plan to pay back, doesn’t deserve any other lending hand.

I’m ashamed, our sister nations might be laughing at us, even though they are also chronic borrowers. Of course, two persons could be characterized by same unruly behaviour, but when that of the other becomes so extreme, his counterpart may be tempted to laugh at him not minding they both share similar lifestyle.

Another question that bothers me, or that’s earnestly begging for a candid answer is, having totally removed subsidy from petroleum products by the government, as we were informed, why then is the country’s coffer still apparently bleeding despite the huge savings achieved thus far? Does it imply the citizenry is being misinformed, or there’s something wrong somewhere, which the governed are yet to know? For Nigeria to heal of her present economic disease that requires a lobotomy, these disturbing enquiries must be candidly addressed by the government.

Let’s economically take a closer look at the actual amount involved in the loan request. Since it’s an external borrowing, the fund would be released to the beneficiary in foreign currency, precisely the US dollar. US$2.2bn is targeted to be borrowed. It’s estimated to be about #1.76trn, using #800 as the pegged exchange rate to one dollar in the 2024 budget.

In the actual sense, the naira equivalent of the proposed loan ought to base on the current economic reality, considering the fact that the present official exchange rate to a dollar has doubled (about #1760) compared to the figure stipulated in the budget. It is even more than twice the aforementioned amount (#800). In view of this prevailing reality, the naira equivalent of the external loan being requested by the Presidency should rather be about #3.8trn, contrary to the #1.7trn as was reported in the letter from the Presidency.

In other words, Nigeria intends to borrow additional approximately 3.87 trillion naira at a time when the country’s public debt, both external and domestic, had catapulted to almost #134.3trn (about $76.3bn) as at the second quarter of 2024, indicating a growth rate of 24.99% on a quarter-to-quarter basis, which marked the country’s highest debt-to-GDP ratio ever; at a time when her teeming citizens are struggling to feed, or could barely afford two-square meal per day; at a moment when small and medium-scale business ventures are liquidating on a daily basis; at a period when the economic quagmire of the followers seems irredeemable; at a time when the country’s inflation rate is about 29.90%.

If we are to be truthful to ourselves, we would comprehend that at such a critical and scary moment like this, the government is rather expected to sit at home and consider how to deeply think outside the box towards redeeming the shattered image of the Nigerian State. Our leaders must take into cognizance that a 50 naira note is almost presently useless in Nigeria’s currency.

At such a tight situation of this kind, my worry mostly lies with the members of the NASS, who are constitutionally referred to as the lawmakers. It’s noteworthy that the loan being sought was unanimously approved by the senators barely 48 hours after the request letter was read on the floor of the Senate. I strongly see no reason every requested loan by the Presidency must be approved by the legislators, irrespective of the consequences it bears. Does it signify they can’t – or have no immunity – to say NO, even when the reason for the expected rejection is so glaring?

The story remains the same in all the states across the federation. Each of the State governors has resorted to borrowing as the only means of survival, in spite of the astronomical hike in taxation in their respective revenue generations. The most painful part of it is the way and manner the legislators swiftly give any loan request an attention, without critically analyzing the factors that informed the financial demand from the governor. Similar melodrama occurs, on a regular basis, at the national level.

The Presidency might bear a genuine intention as regards utilization of the sourced funds, but the bitter truth remains that incessant borrowing has never done anyone, either a person or group, any good in whatever perspective it’s being considered. We were notified that the loan, if eventually accessed, would be channelled into critical sectors such as power, agriculture, security, and transport, but this wasn’t the first time Nigerians were served with such a palatable diet, yet in the long run, these sectors would remain unattended to.

More so, there’s reportedly a budget deficit of #9.179trn and what the government is about to borrow is just #3.87trn, which is less than 50% of the deficit. So, how does it intend to source for the remaining fund towards financing the 2024 fiscal year? Perhaps, in the nearest future, the Presidency might come up with another loan request.

In a clear term, borrowing isn’t the remedy to the Nigeria’s economic woes; rather, an avenue to further weaken the bleeding and epileptic economy. It’s high time we gave this prevailing syndrome a rethink before it consumes the entire system. Think about it! frednwaozor@gmail.com

N.B: Published in NewTelegraph Newspaper on 27/11/2024

The Best and Beast in Leadership Positions

By Fred Nwaozor

Every leadership position, irrespective of level or status, is characterized by the good, bad, and the ugly. Inasmuch as how juicy and palatable it might taste, the ordeals surrounding the highly-spiced diet might take the bearer off the track, thereby making him/her dine with ‘a spirit’.

Anyone who is yet to assume any position of authority may not actually comprehend the tune of this analysis. But if you have experienced any, one wouldn’t be far from the truth if he says you would be smiling while reading this, because you had personally dined with the aforementioned spirit and probably conquered.

While growing up, I saw myself as one who was naturally imbued with leadership skills; and in my own little way, I was showcasing it. I could informally assemble members of my peer group, and effortlessly counsel them. I was enjoying the task and relationship, not until one fateful day when one of us displayed an unforgettable character just to discredit my person.

The essence of the above reference is to indicate that, as little as we were, someone was already envying the service I was rendering to my childhood pals, even though I was obviously gaining absolutely nothing from the position. Meanwhile, this topic is informed by the need to highlight both the pleasant and unpleasant features of a leadership post, hence let me not be so quick in discussing the latter.

Leadership responsibility takes you closer to the best point; it brings out the hidden best in you. You may initially be of the view that your person lacks the ability to handle a certain leadership position, but the moment you occupy it, you would inadvertently find yourself exercising the required capability.

A leadership post serves as a motivational tool. It propels the occupant to possess the zeal to do more. It triggers that innermost motivation in you that wouldn’t have ordinarily being displayed if you never occupied the position. It reinvigorates the passion that might had left you in the past. The passion and vigour to triumph will invariably knock at your door, thereby awakening the candid quest to work extra mile towards actualizing a conceived goal. The intent to do more would keep flying in your mindset.

It attracts innovation. As the incumbent occupant of the position, there’s a natural tendency that would make you yearn for innovative ideas. You would want to do better than your predecessor; you would wish people see you as the best thus far since inception of the position whenever you eventually left. Every genuine leader is desired to leave a legacy as s/he takes a bow after tenure expiration. In other words, he wants to be reckoned as second to none, not second best.

It keeps you informed at all times. As a leader, you would always be ahead of others as regards information receipt. A leadership position gives you that desire to acquire firsthand news concerning your jurisdiction, hence would detest to receive it as stale. Of course, “information is power”, because it gives you the needed tool for adequate preparation toward averting inconsequential excuses. A leader is in a good position, and has all it takes, to be aptly informed.

Away from the fascinating intrigues of a leadership position, there are some other uncalled feelings that might preoccupy your mind, hence making you stay off the track unwittingly as the journey progresses. The position intoxicates, regardless of its status. There’s a sense of intoxication one feels while occupying a post of authority; he feels drunk on some occasions, especially when taking decision on critical issues or while addressing his subordinates. By so doing, he would mistakenly step on the toes of his superiors, or the king makers, as the case may be.

It only takes His grace for leaders to retrace their steps whenever they’re intoxicated. This is the reason a leader who does not recognize his creator, usually fumbles in the long run, thereby finds himself crumbling without pulsation. One thing you must acknowledge as a leader is that, you can never successfully do it alone without a mentor, guardian, and/or counsellor, or what have you; this is a fact you mustn’t take for granted. Leadership must be a teamwork if truly you intend to excel.

Another bitter side of leadership positions is sycophancy. I’ve in the past done a very extensive work on this; as an analyst, I took time to dissect the intricacies of the monster called sycophancy. Believe it or not, any form of leadership is synonymous with sycophancy, and the latter kills any leader who isn’t careful enough faster than poison would. It’s a tool that swiftly devours a leader, even when he is decorated with an uncommon armour.

In his words, Silver Mars opined “A friend who agrees with everything that you say and do, is worse than the foe. Beware the sycophant!” Being human, particularly a leader, you would desire to see everyone dancing to all your tunes, forgetting that anyone could err. Everybody desires to witness people’s acceptance over their opinions or decisions, let alone a leader.

While in the position, people would invariably troop in to tell you ‘sweet’ things. Your ‘friends’ will tell you how good and cleverly you are doing, but would never find time to admonish a few of your policies even when their negative implications are so glaring. You would laugh and wine with them and crack jokes together, not knowing they are actually laughing at you while awaiting your downfall. To overcome this challenge, you must possess an independent mindset; be open to all but always endeavour to think deeply over their words before accepting, or making use of, them.

In her words, Sheryl Sanberg enthused, “Leadership is about making others better as a result of your presence and making sure that impact lasts in your absence.” It’s simply about leaving indelible footprints behind, which would speak for your personality even many years after your exit.

The bitter truth is that, a leadership position isn’t for everybody; not everyone is meant to occupy it, irrespective of paper qualifications. Though anyone can learn to be a good leader, but a true leader is unequivocally inborn. Think about it!

The Author could be reached via frednwaozor@gmail.com

X-raying The FUTO CE-sPESS Conference in Imo

Learning is indeed a lifetime process. This could be proven when most learned individuals, such as professors, are members of a gathering targeted to impact knowledge on the participants. The widely publicized 5-Day maiden International Conference on Procurement, Environmental and Social Standards (ICPES - 2024), which graciously held on 12th - 15th November, 2024 in the prestigious Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO) was a good example of the above assertion. The Conference whose Theme is "Key to a Sustainable Livelihood in the 21st Century", was heralded by a Opening Ceremony, which featured goodwill messages from special guests, various presentations on different topics by distinguished academics, as well as panel discussion. It's noteworthy that the Conference was gallantly hosted by the FUTO Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Procurement, Environmental and Social Standards (CE-sPESS) in conjuction with the School of Environment Sciences (SOES) of the University. In her Goodwill Message during the Opening Ceremony, the Deputy Governor of Imo State, Her Excellency, Lady Chinyere Ihuoma Ekomaru congratulated the hosts of the Conference and urged them to keep the flag flying as she officially declared the ICPES-2024 open. Lady Ekomaru - who was ably represented by the Principal Secretary to the Deputy Governor's Office, Mr. John Njoku - assured the hosting team of her support. On her part, the Chief Host and Chairman of the Occasion who happens to be the Eight Substantive Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Mrs. Nnenna N. Oti commended the FUTO CE-sPESS and SOES for actualizing such a feat as she specially welcomed everyone who found time to grace the event. The VC, ably represented by the DVC on Academics, Prof. Emma C. Esenwa described the outing as the first of its kind. In his Keynote Address on the topic "Procurement, Environmental and Social Standards: Unlocking Sustainable Livelihoods in the 21st Century", the Seventh Substantive and the immediate past Vice-Chancellor of FUTO, Prof. Francis C. Eze advocated the need to fully and duly incorporate Internet of Things (IoT) and Machine Learning (ML) in the procurement processes. Prof. Eze equally emphasized the essence of making profit, but not at the expense of the host communities or any entity that's involved. Earlier on the Occasion, the Host of the ICPES-2024, Engr. Prof. Mrs. Gloria A. Chukwudebe informed the participants that she was impressed that a Conference, which was conceived barely a few months back, came into reality. Prof. Chukwudebe, who is the pioneer and incumbent Leader of the FUTO CE-sPESS, took time to present the background and journey-so-far of the Centre to the members of the gathering. Similarly, the Conference Co-Host, Prof. J. D. Njoku notified that the ICPES-2024 was borne out of the need to fully educate the members of the society, particularly the academia and industry, the practical essence of sticking to the extant rules when public procurement is being carried out. Prof. Njoku, who is the current Dean of SOES, conscientized the participants to take the participation seriously as long as the brainstorming outing lasts. In her Welcome Address at the beginning of the Ceremony, the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) Chair, Prof. Mrs. Roseline Feechi Njoku-Tony appreciated every member of the LOC for their laudable inputs during the preparatory session. Prof. Njoku-Tony stated that the planning was so rigorous, because the committee was expecting outstanding results. The Guest Speakers who made presentations at the event were: Prof. Chidi Nzeadibe of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) who spoke virtually, Dr. Yakubu Aminu Dodo of the Najran University, Saudi Arabia who also presented via online, as well as the Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University of Agriculture & Environmental Sciences (UAES), Umuagwo in Imo State, Prof. Christopher C. Eze. The Panel Discussion featured the representatives of the key stakeholders in the SPESSE Project. They were: Dr. Joshua Atah of the NUC (represented by Ms Lulu Airudulu); Mr. Adebowale Adedokun of the Bureau for Public Procurement (BPP), Abuja; Mrs. R. A. Odetoro of the Federal Ministry of Environment, Abuja, as well as Mr. Benjamin Okwesa of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, Abuja (represented by Mr. Olutimi Jacob). In his Vote of Thanks, the Steering Committee Chair, Prof. Chris Nwoko strongly thanked all stakeholders who contributed towards the success of the Conference, especially those who made out time to witness the commencement session. The 5-Day ICPES-2024, which successfully came to an end on Friday, 15th November 2024, featured various sessions, including plenary, technical, debate, exhibition, and paper presentations. The Guest Speakers during the plenary sessions from Wednesday, 13th to Friday, 15th included, but not limited to: Prof. Kenneth Amaechi of the University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom (UK); Dr. Vincent Ogu; Prof. Aka chief Odoemena of the Woodrow Wilson International Centre for Scholars, Washington DC, USA. Others were: Dr. Ama of the Bangor University, UK; Dr. Muhammad Ahaker Ali; and Prof. Ernest Uwazie of the Clifornia State University, USA. Some of the participants who aired their views after the Conference expressed delight over the outing, and pleaded with the Management to ensure such an intellectual harvest is organized on a regularly basis.

Tech II Nigeria’s Job Seekers And Tech Prospects

Fred Nwaozor The number of job seekers in Nigeria increases astronomically by the day. The intriguing aspect of the unending scenario is that most of these individuals are imbued with tangible tech prowess or potentials that should rather make them job creators. The dangers inherent in joblessness are so conspicuous and frightening in such a way that everyone has become very conscious of its presence, hence invariably make tremendous effort to avert the menace.

In spite of the frantic and tireless steps usually taken by the teeming citizens and successive governments to ensure they aren’t trapped in the pothole cruelly dug by unemployment, they still overtime encounter its ruthless scourge, apparently signifying that their effort isn’t good enough or that something is really wrong somewhere. However, my last visit to one of the West African countries lately made me understand that Nigeria isn’t exceptional while discussing unemployment or that the term is not peculiar to the acclaimed giant of Africa. But, it seems the degree at which it parades its tentacles and elbows in Nigeria is so enormous that the country is ostensibly taking the lead in the comity of nations. This is the sole reason many are deeply concerned and bothered over the anomaly, hence the need for drastic measures towards cushioning the excruciating effects. It’s noteworthy that unemployment is not a personal plight but a general one, thus the essence of a societal approach in a bid to tackling it. This is why countless schools of thought have overtime shown great concern over the lingering nature of the cankerworm as well as aired their views on how best to tackle it. Though unemployment isn’t a convincing excuse to indulge in any crime, hence no discerning mind encourages people to resort to it, it’s worth noting that its scourge remains one of the prime reasons all sorts of criminal activities have escalated in recent times. Another disturbing occurrence that’s apropos of unemployment is the employability status of our present days’ graduates. It’s not anymore news that most of these youths are obviously unemployable, thus posing threat to the labour market and their chances of being meaningfully employed. The plight as stated in the above paragraph is mainly attributable to lack of adequate knowledge as acquired from their respective institutions of learning, or inability of our various undergraduates to stick to the needful while on campus. Taking a painstaking study of all these issues, it’s needless to assert that the ongoing unemployment crisis in Nigeria is not unconnected with dilapidated learning environment cum facilities, decline in the country’s value system, and insufficient employers of labour, among others. Though nepotism is highly condemnable and unacceptable, those who attribute unemployment to it might be making a big mistake because if there are sufficient firms or employment opportunities, such a practice like favouritism or what have you would hardly be detected by anyone. Before now, or in the olden days, Nigerians were gainfully engaged with various works simply because the jobs were readily available and the population was conspicuously far lesser than what we could witness now.

But with the growing lack of sustainability of various government-owned establishments coupled with the astronomical growth of the country’s population, the job spaces abruptly became overwhelmed by the number of people in the labour market. A lot has really gone wrong in the system, but the good news is that, we can once again get it right if the needful is done by the relevant authorities. This can only be actualized by revisiting the drawing board. It would be very wonderful for the government to comprehend that the endless unemployment issues can aptly be addressed by truly comprehending the real value of technology, hence embracing its measures. It’s worthy of note that only technological approach could significantly alleviate all crises that are apropos unemployment. First, we need to revamp the country’s education sector. The current educational system of the Nigerian society has really deteriorated that an urgent, candid and apt measure is required towards its revitalization. We must be ready to train our young ones with a view to becoming self-reliant in their respective abilities. Since the population is growing by the day and the firms aren’t increasing meaningfully, there’s a compelling need to prepare these Nigerians so they could emerge as entrepreneurs or employers of labour rather than seekers. Our various technical colleges, which have apparently gone into moribund, must be revived in earnest to keep the ground running. Those days, graduates of these institutions – even without proceeding to a higher level of learning – could stand on their own as well as comfortably raise wonderful families with their earnings. The governments at all levels ought to endeavour to equip the various tertiary schools in their respective jurisdictions, so that, the graduates can defend themselves in any setting and equally start up something meaningful without ‘giraffing’ for the availability of any form of white-collar job as it is currently the case.

In view of the above, the schools’ authorities must strengthen the value of the ongoing Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES), which was primarily set up by the government to aid the technical upbringing of the learners irrespective of their disciplines. Inter alia, the governments need to provide enabling environment to enable all tech-driven talents to thrive as well as ensure that the available patents of the numerous institutions domiciled in their jurisdictions are duly commercialized. Research works in any quarter must also be given a due attention since technology is strictly dependent on research. Conclusively, it would be sacrilegious to beat about the bush while discussing tech-driven matters, because technology is all about facts. Hence, the government needs to acknowledge that the suggested measures can never yield significant and tangible results if we continue to relegate the power supply issue to the background. We must understand that only uninterruptible electricity can encourage entrepreneurship to a great extent as desired by the people. Therefore, this technological factor requires the highest sincere attention. This critique is targeted to express that Nigeria as a people can only aptly address unemployment-related cases if tech measures are duly deployed, hence the need not to shortchange realities. We, as a people, must collectively work to make our teeming young ones job creators, not job seekers, to save Nigeria from imminent collapse. Think about it!

Opinion II On Explosion Of Illicit Refinery In Imo

By Fred Nwaozor

The good people of Imo State, other known as the Eastern Heartland, woke in the early morning of Saturday, 23rd April 2022, only to be greeted with the news of a disaster that befell a certain locality in the State On the night of Friday, 22nd April 2022, an illegal crude-oil refinery – otherwise known as oil bunkering in the local parlance – situated in Abaezi forest at Ohaji-Egbema Local Government Area (LGA) of the State exploded unannounced, reportedly killing over 100 youths and razing about six vehicles.

In a similar development, reports also had it that countless individuals within the scene of the incident were seriously injured while many were maimed. During his visit to the scene of the explosion, the following day being Saturday, the Imo State Commissioner for Petroleum Resources, Mr. Goodluck Opiah opined that the incident was very unfortunate, as he described ‘oil bunkering’ as a suicidal business. Consequently, while the Commissioner was on his on-the-spot assessment visit, he stated that he could not confirm the actual casualty figure. He said, “At the moment, I can’t really confirm the number of the deceased because many family members have removed the corpses of so many others.” Mr. Opiah went further to disclose that the State Government led by Sen. Hope Uzodinma had declared the owner of the illegal refinery, Mr. Okenze Onyenwaoke wanted, hence advised him to make himself available to the police immediately.

“Most of the people who are engaging in this act are from Rivers, Bayelsa and other neigbouring states and it is sabotage for our people to allow this illegal act to continue. “Apart from this calamity, the act has destroyed the aquatic life in the community. Our people before now were predominantly farmers and fishermen. “Look around, you will find smoke coming from this illegal act. If this is not enough for any person to stop, I think the community is heading for what I can’t describe,” said Mr. Opiah. On his part, a resident of the area who identified himself as Daniel Opara, told newsmen that majority of the victims in the incident were youth. He said the people were unable to escape because fire covered the whole forest. He said, “I rarely see old people involved in this illegal act. They are mainly youths.”

Mr, Opara, who added that “It is a popular business here. I think they make it there, that’s why they take such risks”, could not say if all the people involved in the illicit business hail from Imo or the neighbouring states. A video clip shot taken from the scene of the explosion, that has gone viral on the social media, revealed horrible images of the victims and vehicles burnt beyond recognition, littering the entire envir

onment. It’s noteworthy that oil theft, known as ‘bunkering’ in local parlance, which remains a means of livelihood to many notable Nigerians, has been a source of concern to many well-meaning stakeholders across the country. The Nigerian government had been reportedly losing an estimated $4 billion annually, due to oil theft activities. This is to say that the economic loss attributable to oil bunkering is outrageous and unspeakable, yet no one is talking about its existence. In Rivers State precisely, air pollution, especially the soot in its capital territory, Port Harcourt and its environs, has been attributed to the operation of illegal oil refineries. Generally, refinery of petroleum products in this part of the world constitute colossally environmental nuisance. This has been the outcry of the people from the Niger-Delta region in Nigeria from time immemorial. This is so, because the country still lacks the needed technical mechanism to address the menace. This is to assert that the illicit practice as regards oil refinery would cause not just environmental hazard but obvious death trap, because so many required measures would definitely be lacking in such pattern of production. Hence, taking into cognizance that virtually all the existing refineries across the federation were illegally built and being operated without any license, is enough reason to worry about the wellbeing and general health status of Nigerians, particularly the residents of the oil producing parts of the country. Nigeria is indeed the cause of her own plight, to assert the least. The point I’m trying to portray here is that, if the leaders of the country truly intends to eradicate ‘oil bunkering’, it would take no effort to do so. Read my lips. It’s even more saddening when realized that the various state governments affected by the uncalled and unfortunate practice generate most of their internal revenue from the illicit business via taxation. It suffices to say that, rather than doing the needful, they would prefer to settle for the worst, perhaps owing to their self-centred interest. For instance, the current Commissioner for Petroleum Resourc

es in Imo State hails from the LGA where the explosion took place in the state penultimate week. It’s needless to assert that he possesses the capacity to identify or fish out the exact individuals involved in the illegal venture. Come to think of think, the aforementioned individual that was declared wanted by the Imo Government, how did they come to know about his nomenclature; was he identified just after the incident; why hasn’t the government made effort to identify and declare him wanted prior to the explosion; does it imply they never knew about his person before the accident? So, many questions are conspicuously seeking apt response, though most Nigerians are already aware of the correct answers to the inquiries. This isn’t the first time we would hear of explosion of oil bunkering, yet the unlawful practice continues unabated as if the country lacks the powers to do the needful.

I’ve, for the umpteenth time, suggested the need for the government to work out modalities on best the oil bunkering practice across the federation could be converted to modular refineries. By doing so, the individuals into the business would still be meaningfully engaged and the entire Nigerians would same time benefit from the activity. But the relevant authorities seemingly remain docile towards it. At this juncture, it won’t be expensive to opine that the Nigeria’s leaders ar

e actually the problem to Nigerians. They have ostensibly ‘vowed’ to keep their followers in perpetual darkness even when the remedy to the prolonged state of poignancy lies in their palms. It’s high time we desist from this act of deceit that has eaten deep into our collective bone marrow. Think about it!

The Claims Of APC Group On Osinbajo’s Presidential Ambition

By Fred Nwaozor

Ahead of the 2023 elections in Nigeria, a group of the All Progressives Congress (APC) members, under the aegis of Progressive Consolidation Group (PCG), has called on the leadership of the ruling party to adopt the incumbent Vice President of the country, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo as its consensus candidate for the Presidential election. According to them, Prof. Osinbajo was the most qualified person to take over from President Muhammadu Buhari after expiration of his tenure come 2023.

The PCG, who held a rally in Ikeja, the capital city of Lagos State a few days ago, to receive the Vice President, urged the number two citizen to put himself forward for the presidential position, saying having Prof. Osinbajo as its sole candidate, would douse tension not only in the ruling party, but across the country. Speaking at the rally, the PCG National Secretary, Dr. Eli Eberechukwu Dibia who spoke to journalists at the grand reception, said they had started mobilizing in all the 774 Local Government Areas across the Nigeria for the emergence of Prof. Osinbajo as APC sole Presidential candidate in the forthcoming 2023 elections.

He said, “His candidacy will douse the already accumulated tension across the six geopolitical zones, Osinbajo is a man of grace, humility, truth and the fear of God.” Dr. Dibia further opined, “As a detribalized Nigerian, APC as a party should adopt Osinbajo as consensus candidate of the party and expect a seamless victory.” He therefore described Prof. Osinbajo ‘as a dependable, transparent, competent and passionate Nigerian, who cares about the ordinary man and the youths’, saying the Vice-President ‘holds the best credentials to succeed President Buhari having worked with him as his deputy’. The Group, whose members were dressed in T-shirts and Face-caps bearing the Vice President’s picture, staged what it described as ‘A Walk For Osinbajo’.

Speaking further, the PCG Leader said, “Today, over one million Nigerians have gathered here to celebrate a man of character, a man that we are very convinced that if he mounts the seat, Nigerians will have fresh air. He is cerebral, well tutored pastor and a man of God.” On his part, the National Coordinator of the PCG, Hon. Hyacinth Turnel informed that the ‘Walk for Osinbajo’ was organised by professionals who believed in the ability of the Vice-President to deliver. He said, “We the like-minds, gather here to at least show solidarity to our dear principal, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, to run for the seat of the President. That is why we are here.” While asked what makes him think the Vice-President had the capacity to run, he replied that Prof. Osinbajo had spearheaded some reforms in the government that were unknown to many Nigerians. He therefore enthused that the emergence of Prof. Osinbajo as President Buhari’s successor would guarantee continuity, adding it was better to have someone that had learned how the process works than somebody that would come and start learning from the scratch. “At least, he knows the challenges that we have in this country. So, we believe he will do his best to ensure that the challenges are tackled headlong.

When further asked what new thing the Vice-President would bring to the table, he said with Osinbajo at helm of affairs of the country, he would assemble the professionals that would work in the interest of the country. One might ask, does Prof. Osinbajo really possess what it takes to lead Nigeria to the needed Promised Land? While such a question is tendered by a concerned Nigerian, someone on the other side might boldly answer that the middle-aged professor has the required requisite taking into cognizance his social, educational and professional backgrounds and antecedents.

However, like I earlier stated in my previous critique, at the moment, Nigeria as a country does not just need an eligible individual to succeed President Buhari come 2023, but one who truly feels the pains of the country’s populace. Come to think of it, considering the fact that the PCG stated that Prof. Osinbajo was coming to continue from where President Buhari would stop in 2023, just as he (Osinbajo) rightly mentioned in his declaration speech a few days back, is indeed enough reason to worry. The question is, where actually does he intend to continue from? Is it from the current state of the country’s education sector, or the present condition of the health sector? Does he intend to continue fighting corruption the same way it is being fought so far by the current administration?

Is Prof. Osinbajo planning to continue tackling insecurity exactly the same way and manner it’s being done at the moment? Does he intend to address the country’s economic status just as it’s being addressed by the current government? Only his person can tender the right answers to these genuine enquiries. Too many questions indeed await his candidacy, especially when noted that he’s presently the Lieutenant to the man who has apparently turned the country’s economy upside down. Think about it!