Many candidates that sit for IELTS always feel very nervous while waiting to be ushered into the exam room. They mostly see it as an interview and, most of the time, fear that they will be judged by their appearance, thereby putting on their best outfit.
I’m here to tell you that IELTS speaking is not about your beautiful dress or how you smell; it’s about being your real self and communicating freely as much as you can.
You do not have all the time to impress an examiner with your looks but you can captivate the attention with your communication
However, you can increase your score by following these simple 10 IELTS Speaking tips and tricks. No 6 and 9 is a secret.

Make a good first impression 

The first contact you have with the examiner, either physically or visually is very important. Be confident, smile and feel relaxed even as you place your hands on the table where the examiner can see them. If you need to adjust the headset, do it with ease and confidence or call the invigilator to help. Don’t make the mistake of feeling too confident or proud.

Don’t learn answers by heart

Ensure you speak freely and do not use memorized answers. If you do, the examiner has been trained to detect that, and once it is detected, you already failed. You can learn words and collocations and use them. Flow in your speech. Always remember that the reason for this test is to test your ability to communicate effectively and not your assent.

Practise answering sample questions

It is only he who fails to plan that fails. These tips are to enable you to practice IELTS speaking questions before the exam date. Questions will likely come from sports, family, travels, etc. There is always a demo section of it on the internet. Practice with a friend or in front of your mirror as if you are facing an examiner and you will realise how easy it can be.

Ask the question again if you need to

This tip is best if you use it well, but many candidates use it as a means to buy more time. Don’t forget you have just limited time and nothing will be added. Ask the question again only if you didn’t get it well and not to buy more time. If used properly, you will not lose any points.                

Be emotional!

Your examiner is a human being like you, and he or she has emotions and feelings. Employ the use of emotion in your speech as if you are talking to a friend or a loved one. This creates a sense of connection between you and the examiner.

Extend your speech

Avoid short And uncommunicative replies like yes or no answers. Extend you’re speech till the invigilator interrupts with another question. If a question seems direct and close-ended, create another opening by talking about what you know. The best technique to use in this aspect is the give reason technique. Whatever answer you give, always give your reason for choosing the answer
Always ensure that you are fluent in your speech and don’t fake your assent. You will gain more marks when you speak freely with relatable vocabularies. Use simple grammar too, and don’t speak too fast. Be calm and make necessary pauses when necessary.

Be coherent

Remember that the test is basically to examine your level of communication; therefore, always use linking words and structures like however, and, nevertheless; all in all, it will enrich your speech.

Give yourself time to think

When the examiner asks you a question, and you are not sure how to answer the question, you can buy yourself a bit of time to think by using this tip. First of all, “That’s a tricky question…”, “I’ve never thought about that before…” or “That’s an interesting question…”. This way you’ll have some extra time to plan your answer.

Be time conscious

The tutorial you attend won’t tell you that you have just 17 minutes to spend with the examiner.
Use every minute well and make it count. Don’t spend too much time trying to process the question or to impress the examiner. Answer it as simply as you can and stick to it until she asks you to stop or ask another question. Towards the end of the speaking test, you will be asked to talk extensively on a particular topic. Use the time well and flow naturally.

Did you make a mistake? Don’t panic!

The examiner notices when you make a mistake, and it is expected, but your ability to correct yourself is important. Ensure to apply brief pauses where needed, too. When you are with the examiner, don’t make too many mistakes.

[Vanguard]

The Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) got its fair share of the wave of federal appointments as Mr Bayo Onanuga, the Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, last Friday, announced the appointment of seven Executive Directors. The announcement led me down the path of nostalgia, a wishful past when NTA was the king of broadcasting and could do only the right things.

The appointees according to Onanuga’s statement include: Ayo Adewuyi, Executive Director, News (actually reappointed), Ibrahim Aliyu, Special Duties, Malam Muhamed Fatuhu Mustapha, Administration and Training, and Mrs Apinke Effiong (Finance).

Others are Mrs Tari Taylaur, Programme, Mr Sadique Musa Omeiza Engineering, and Mrs Oluwakemi Fashina, Marketing. Quite a couple of them came with interesting annotations. Effiong is described as an expert in financial marketing with treasury, management accounting and reporting skills; Taylaur as an audio/visual creator, producer and showrunner; and Fashina was hailed as an integrated marketing communications professional and chartered marketer.

My first observation here is that there seems to be some level of diversity or democratisation of the appointments as against the practice of the past where certain positions and offices at NTA were seemingly reserved for some people. The Executive Directors are expected to contribute their wealth of experience and support the Director General in the person of Mr Salihu Abdul Hamid Dembos in order to give NTA a new direction and some level of creative vitality. NTA needs some fillip at the moment and the writer is only praying that the new appointees are able to offer just that.

Established in April 1976 by Decree 24, which has since become an Act of Parliament, and charged with the responsibility for the provision of television broadcasting in Nigeria and other related matters thereto, NTA has seen some glorious days as the sole government station building facilities across the states of the federation.

Taking maximum advantage of its network strength and putting the abundant talents to great use, NTA promoted flagship programmes from different parts of the country – Masquerade from NTA, Enugu, Hotel de Jordan from NTA, Benin, Cockcrow at Dawn from NTA, Jos, Village Headmaster from Lagos, and much later Mirror in the Sun, Checkmate and Ripples, among others. It was a great time on television. You have to wait religiously for the network news for you to get the major news of the day or, if you work in a newspaper, you must monitor the network news for news break by 9pm.

Something happened in 1992 which NTA was too arrogant to spot. The broadcast sector was deregulated by Decree 38, now an Act of Parliament, National Broadcasting Act CAP N11, Laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 2004, to give opportunity to private business promoters to test the perilous waters of broadcasting.

NTA held the development in scorn, even more the regulator, NBC, and those jostling to come into the sector. That marked the birth of Raypower and AIT, Channels Television, Silverbird Television and Rhythm FM, MITV, TVC and much later, Arise TV, in no particular order. The rest, they say, is history, a cliche I don’t particularly like because it gives proof of a people not ready to learn the lessons of history.

The burgeoning content creating sector, now Nollywood, discriminated against by the NTA, quickly shifted camps to the new broadcast operators and a new industry was born, very robust and rambunctious. The new broadcasters invested in new technologies and more modern broadcast practices. NTA was receding into the past and becoming a dodo. It failed to recognise competition when it came and now the government broadcast behemoth has been fighting ever since to cope with that competition. Allegiance has since shifted and so are the TV viewing eyes!

This material is not an elegy for NTA but a call to the new Executive Directors to take a dispassionate look at history and see how they can dig the station out of a self-created hole and begin to reposition it. It’s like waking the Titanic, but can they? It is the responsibility of the President to appoint but the onus rests upon the appointees to perform.

But for the NTA to witness a rebirth, it has to identify its place in history and strip itself of a debilitating arrogance. Is NTA a Public Broadcaster or a Government Broadcaster?

The Nigeria Broadcasting Code recognises three tiers of broadcasting, categorised as follows: Public Service Broadcasting (PSB), Private/Commercial Broadcasting and Community Broadcasting.

Those who are versed in this matter told this writer that the NTA is more of a government broadcaster because it is funded by the government which also makes strategic appointments as was done last week. From inception, the appointments have little to do with professionalism but more with political patronage subsidised by intolerable degree of subservience.

After all, appointments are made by the President through the recommendations of the Minister, who is also empowered by the NTA Act to give directives of general order to the NTA and officials must obey. It can be any order depending upon the mood of the Minister or even his wife!

Under this kind of practice, good journalism suffers, creativity and poetic licence are jeopardised, and accountability enjoys no relevance. No system suffers the aforementioned consequential defects and enjoys rectitude or experience needed growth. NTA enjoys no good standing between the two.

This writer is of the opinion that what the regulator would have recommended for NTA is to operate as a Public Service Broadcaster (PSB). The PSB, the Code states, is broadcasting that is funded and controlled by the public, free from political and commercial interference. The regulator would have wished for NTA to follow best global practices, like the BBC and VOA.

There are examples, which is why I don’t think we have to reinvent the wheel in this part of the world. For instance, the BBC is primarily funded by licence fee and supplemented by incomes from its commercial subsidiaries. The station does not allow advertising because it is not a commercial operator. A standard TV licence currently stands at £169.50, and gives access to a number of TV channels, radio, blogs and other devices.

The monthly fee for 2021/22 was £13.25, and this is how it was spent: Television – £7.29, Radio – £2.09, Online – £1.27, BBC World Service – £1.30, Other Services and Production Costs – £.72, and Licence fee collection and Pension deficit cost – £0.58. It’s all about transparency and for every stakeholder to know that not a single pound sterling is accidented in the process.

The Voice of America (VOA), on the other hand, is funded by the US Agency of Global Media after approval by the Congress. VOA produces digital, TV, and radio content in 48 languages and broadcasting is targeted primarily at non-American outside of the United States. By November 2022, VOA reached 326m weekly across all platforms. That is their policy. But the source of funds is sure and guaranteed and is used for the purpose budgeted for.

He also suggested that the status of NTA must be made clear. It cannot be a government broadcaster and be canvassing for commercials with commercial operators at the same time. Such practice makes the playing field uneven. The station must be refocused and has to be in full compliance with the regulatory provisions of the NBC.

What are the new Executive Directors bringing to the table? Is it just the same hackneyed story of “we are the biggest network in Africa?” Talk is cheap, my friend, and such belief cannot be evacuated from the platform of pipe-dreams.

I don’t know what feeds my belief that the new appointees can do well. But first they must redefine the status of NTA and try to professionalise its operations. The station must have to embrace robust journalism practices and be able to present balanced views to its audience. I do not know whether NTA tracks its viewership but I am pressed to suggest here that the station is watched only by their sponsors and people without alternatives. The new Executive Directors must do something. I am sure they will earn some garlands at some point.

Chimamanda Adichie, the award-winning author, is set to release a new novel.

The book, titled ‘Dream Count’ and published by Penguin Random House, is scheduled for release on March 4, 2025.

In a recent blog post, Penguin revealed the highly anticipated novel has been a decade in the making.

‘Dream Count’ is a reflection on love, desire, and the intricacies of womanhood, explored through the lives of four distinct women

The book also pulses with “emotional urgency and poignant, unflinching observations of the human heart, in language that soars with beauty and power”.

The publisher said that ‘Dream Count’ solidifies Adichie’s status “as one of the most exciting and dynamic writers on the literary landscape”.

‘Dream Count’ is Adichie’s first feature-length novel in 11 years.

The novelist’s last book was ‘Americanah’. It was published in 2013.

Asides being a novelist, Adichie is also a feminist. She is best known for her themes on politics, culture, race, and gender.

She has received global recognition and won numerous awards.

In 2019, Adichie became the first Nigerian to receive the United Nations Foundation’s Global Leadership Award.

She has also made the New African’s list of ‘100 Most Influential Africans’, New Yorker’s ’20 under 40′, and Time Magazine’s ‘100 Most Influential People’.

In 2022, the novelist was honoured with a chieftaincy title in Abba, Anambra state.

[TheCable]

Trust is an essential quality. It is a valuable non-commodity asset. It is the diviner of promise and fulfilment. A government that succeeds is one which holds sufficient public trust and exerts itself considerably to keep it by delivering on its promises.

Introducing the consumer credit scheme was one of the foremost pledges of President Bola Tinubu during the 2023 presidential campaigns. The President had said: ‘’Corruption will be addressed when an individual does not need to have cash readily available to buy a vehicle, for instance, if there is a credit facility to finance it. Credit financing, in turn, will stimulate productivity and demand. We can, and we will. We will change the inefficiencies. We will drive Nigeria’s potential to delivery.’’

Within a few months after assuming office, President Tinubu went to work in fidelity to his promise. In April 2024, the President approved the take-off of the Consumer Credit Scheme with the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) as the institutional apparatus.

Today, the gestation of hope has reached parturition. CREDICORP has begun disbursement. And Nigerians from across diverse backgrounds and sectors, especially those in the essential service sector, are the latest beneficiaries. So far, the agency has disbursed over N3.5 billion with teachers, medical doctors, security officers, administrators, and workers in specialised services as the first beneficiaries.

The reason for this is obvious. This segment of workers forms the core of the nation’s workforce and provides essential services. But the credit blanket will spread further to cover the majority of Nigerians in subsequent phases as the scheme was conceived by President Tinubu for all Nigerians.

According to data by CREDICORP, credit was provided for a slew of needs, such as the procurement of petrol alternatives (solar panels, CNG conversion, tricycles), home improvements, school fees and medical needs, as well as the purchase of household items.  

The CREDICORP data also shows that over N1.5 billion has been disbursed to federal and state workers in the education sector; administrators in federal and state MDAs over N755 million; medical doctors in federal and state services over N600 million; police/paramilitary officers (police, civil defence, customs, immigration, and correctional service) over N367 million, and Nigerians in specialised services (judiciary, EFCC, ICPC, traffic authorities, environment) over N273 million.

Additionally, in the education sector, over 4,700 Nigerians are beneficiaries; in administration over 2,800; in health over 1,300; police/paramilitary over 1,260, and specialised services, over 750. More Nigerians are being enlisted as beneficiaries of this epochal scheme.

President Tinubu’s vision is to spread prosperity, create a robust credit system, strengthen the financial architecture, and empower Nigerians sustainably while removing the incentive for corruption.

In full apprehension of the concerns of citizens, the President Tinubu administration has sustained its interventions in critical sectors and directly in providing relief to vulnerable Nigerians. It is ratcheting up effort on social investment programmes to lift the most vulnerable population out of poverty. So far, additional payment has been made to about one million verified recipients under the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) programme.

President Tinubu has remained true to his pledges. He pledged to introduce the student loan scheme to remove financial impediments to higher education for Nigerians. Today, this pledge is an actuality.

The President affirmed public good and trust as his motivation when he met with the Forum of Former Presiding Officers of the National Assembly, led by former Senate President Ken Nnamani at the Presidential Villa, on September 20.

 He said: ''I did not come to look for money and exploit the situation; I came to work. I asked for the votes, and Nigerians gave them to me."

President Tinubu is working for Nigerians.

Fredrick Nwabufo is Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Engagement

The Labour Party Presidential Candidate in the 2023 polls, Peter Obi has urged Nigerians to seek a true independent Nation free from state Capture and end the unprecedented hardship and suffering.
"On this day, we must make a sober commitment to build a nation truly independent from the present state capture that has held it down in failure and has kept the people suffering.
Writing his Independent Day message on his X handle on Tuesday, the former Anambra State Governor said, "Anniversary celebrations, whether of an individual or country, provide opportunities to Reflect on memories, Celebrate accomplishments, look to the future, and offer gratitude.
"This is exactly what we are doing today as our dear nation marks its independence anniversary, 64 years since our country, Nigeria, took charge of its destiny and began its journey to development as an independent nation.

'It's a Day to appreciate God for lavishly endowing us with everything natural, human, and material to be a great nation.

"For me however, this day should be a day of sober reflection for every Nigerian, especially for us, the leaders, whose actions and inactions have continued to contribute to the retrogression and very visible failure we are all witnessing.

"An unexamined life, they say, is not worth living. We must, therefore, examine our lives in the light of our journey as a nation within these last 6 decades.

"Have we pulled our people out of poverty or have we thrown more people into poverty? Have we made education accessible to every Nigerian child, or have we raised an army of over 18 million out-of-school children roaming the streets? Have we built a productive economy, or have we built a nation with now the worst debt profile in our nation's history?

"On every measure of development, from the critical areas to every aspect, we are performing badly. From ranking poorly on safety and peacefulness to being one of the most terrorized countries in the world. From being ranked among the most highly corrupt countries in the world to being placed among the nations with gross disobedience to the rule of law. Our nation has continued its dangerous dance on the edge of a precipice.

"When compared with some countries who gained independence around the same time as ours, before and after us, Nigeria stands out as a failed nation that must be urgently rescued from further decadence.

"On this day, we must make a sober commitment to build a nation truly independent from the present state capture that has held it down in failure and has kept the people suffering. We must build a nation independent from tribal disunity and religious disharmony. We must build a New and Productive Nigeria that cares for the well-being of the people. That is the Independence we will celebrate as a nation, and it is POssible."

Signed
Ibrahim Umar
POMR SPOKESMAN
October 1st, 2024

The Shepherd Superintendent of the Household of God Church, Lagos, Rev Chris Okotie, has urged Nigerians to use the occasion of the nation's 64th Independence Anniversary to reinforce their faith in God's sure promises.

In a press release circulated in Lagos yesterday by Rev Okotie's media adviser, Ladi Ayodeji, the cleric, who quoted profusely from the Bible in his main text on the story of Abraham, urged Nigerians to be hopeful always for better days as God does not abandon his people.

Below is the summary of his goodwill message:

"These are perilous times.
"Our faith in God must become the Gyrostat which keeps us afloat as we navigate the tempestuous waters of our convoluted reality. Nigeria is a client Nation for God. Nigeria has a prophetic destiny.
Therefore the sovereign superintendence of Almighty God is assured.
"Nigeria is strong. Nigeria will survive.

So Hope on. Hope ever.
Hope on. Hope ever!"

Rev Okotie has always said that Nigeria enjoys a special bond with God, and the country's trajectory should not bother the Nigerian people.

Nigeria is experiencing a renewed wave of independence from colonial influences, this time achieving it through energy independence via the domestic refining of its rich crude oil resources. This transformation is being spearheaded by indigenous investors who own refineries, representing a significant step away from neo-colonialism and imperialism.
The reason local refining of petrol by Indigenous investors is being used as the linchpin of Nigeria's economic independence after political independence was secured in 1960 is due to the central and all-encompassing role that petrol plays in the life of Nigerians. That is evidenced by the negative effect of the withdrawal of subsidy on petrol pump price some seventeen months ago at the inception of the incumbent administration and how a critical mass of Nigerians was thrown into severe economic hardships and misery. All because petrol drives transportation which is pivotal to the socio-economic activities of all Nigerians.

Key players in securing this second independence the petroleum energy sufficiency include the Dangote Refinery in Lekki, Lagos, which has a capacity of 650,000 liters per day, as well as five modular refineries: Aradel in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, producing 11,000 barrels per day (bpd); Waltersmith in Imo State, with a capacity of 5,000 bpd; Edo Refinery and Duport in Edo State, producing approximately 6,000 bpd and 2,500 bpd, respectively; and OPAC in Warri, Delta State, which has a capacity of 10,000 bpd.

Importantly, all five operational refineries plan to significantly expand their capacities, signaling that Nigeria is on the verge of moving from a state of scarcity to one of surplus in petroleum products, all things being equal.

It is crucial to recognize that past government policies, such as putting some economic activities in the Exclusive and Concurrent Lists of government which precludes the private sector from engaging in certain economic activities ,some of which the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) enacted in 2021 has begun to reform are culprits. That is derived from the fact that they are some of the factors that have hindered the modular refineries from producing petrol despite some being operational for over two decades. For example, Aradel has been in operation since 2010 but has not produced petrol due to regulated pump prices and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation's (NNPC) preference for subsidizing petrol imports rather than local refineries.

Consequently, local refineries have focused on producing other petroleum products such as Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), naphtha, and black oil etc for over thirty years. It is absurd that local producers were denied subsidies on petrol pump prices despite their capacity to generate numerous direct and indirect jobs. As such, the lack of encouragement for petrol production is preposterous. It demonstrates the high level of lack of patriotism by those assigned the responsibility to serve our country at high level.

Subsidizing the refining of petrol at modular refineries would have enhanced our country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP), instead of exporting capital and jobs to foreign countries that supply petroleum products to Nigeria. This export of highly needed hard currencies has exacerbated pressure on the naira and contributed to exchange rate instability.

Unlike the regulated prices of petrol, the prices of other petroleum products have historically been determined by market dynamics. With the reforms introduced by the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and the elimination of petrol subsidies, Nigeria appears poised to attain more autonomy via genuine energy independence. This process began with Dangote Refinery starting local petrol production at the beginning of September of this year.

The encouraging news is that Nigeria is set to take a significant step towards economic independence and energy security on the 1st day of October, when Dangote Refinery will begin receiving crude oil supplies paid for in naira, enabling the refinery to sell to local distributors in the same currency.

Coincidentally, October 1st marks the anniversary of Nigeria's political independence from colonial rule 64 years ago.

Although four state-owned refineries were established between 1965 and the 1980s, they have not produced refined petroleum products for about 28 years. These refineries fell into disrepair due to mismanagement by bureaucrats who prioritized personal gain over public service, embezzling funds intended for essential maintenance that never resuscitated the facilities. Their negligence has certainly resulted in a breach of the public trust placed in them as public servants.

To provide some historical context, Nigeria discovered crude oil in Oloibiri, located in present-day Bayelsa in the oil-rich Niger Delta, in 1956. Seven years later, the country built its first crude oil refinery in Port Harcourt, with a capacity of 60,000 liters per day. This was followed by a second refinery in Port Harcourt, a third in Warri, and a fourth in Kaduna, bringing the total number of state-owned refineries to four, with a combined capacity of 445,000 liters per day.

As we know, after a period of operation during which Nigeria enjoyed a degree of energy independence, the four refineries became non-functional about 28 years ago. This decline occurred despite numerous turn-around maintenance contracts awarded by successive governments, amounting to trillions of naira, aimed at restoring their functionality.

It is evident that the substantial investments made to revitalize these refineries have not yielded any positive outcomes, with numerous start dates announced over the years that never materialized. The facilities remain in a state of disrepair, raising questions about how they could still be inactive despite the significant funds spent on their rehabilitation. This situation suggests either a high-level conspiracy to undermine Nigeria by those tasked with refurbishing the refineries—who may be aligned with the interests of those profiting from continued imports of petrol into Nigeria —or that the facilities are in such poor condition that efforts to revive them by NNPCL are futile.

Continuing with the historical context, it’s important to note that Nigeria gained political independence from Britain on October 1, 1960. However, the country remained economically dependent on European nations due to the presence of various foreign companies operating in Nigeria, which were linked to their parent companies abroad where policy decisions were made. This was especially true for British firms, given that Britain was Nigeria’s colonial ruler, with these subsidiaries essentially acting as extensions of their parent companies in London.

In addition, firms from France, Germany, and Portugal swiftly established their presence in Nigeria, with their subsidiaries managed from Paris, Berlin, and Lisbon, where strategic decisions were formulated and relayed for execution. Given that Britain initially engaged with Nigeria as a trading partner before merging the northern and southern protectorates into a single colony known as Nigeria in 1914, it’s understandable that the grip on trade persisted even after Nigeria’s political independence in 1960. While Nigeria achieved political sovereignty, it did not attain economic freedom.

Consequently, the Nigerian oil industry and the broader economy, with only a handful of indigenous investors, have been stifled by what can be described as the "rentier economy syndrome."

It is such a source of curiosity to me that some Nigerians continue to push a political agenda by falsely claiming that foreign firms are exiting Nigeria in droves while it is the reality that British companies continue to dominate Nigeria’s economy. Not just in manufacturing but also in professional services, including:

1. PwC Nigeria (Audit, Tax, Consulting)
2. KPMG Nigeria (Audit, Tax, Advisory)
3. Ernst & Young Nigeria (Audit, Tax, Consulting)
4. Deloitte Nigeria (Audit, Tax, Consulting)
5. Linklaters Nigeria (Law Firm)

In the financial services sector, major players include:

A. Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria
B. Barclays Bank Nigeria (now Absa Nigeria)
C. HSBC Nigeria
D. Ecobank Nigeria (partially owned by the UK’s Ecobank Transnational)
E. ARM Investment Managers (part of the UK’s ARM Holdings)

The technology services sector also features companies such as IBM Nigeria, HP Nigeria, Oracle Nigeria, Microsoft Nigeria, and UK-based tech firms like Andela, Interswitch, and Flutterwave, all of which maintain operations in Nigeria.

The logistics and supply chain sector also features a considerable number of companies originating from the UK, including DHL Nigeria, UPS Nigeria, FedEx Nigeria, and Maersk Nigeria, which is part of the UK-based A.P. Moller-Maersk. Bollore Logistics Nigeria is another firm that has maintained its operations in the country.

Similarly, the education and training sector includes the British Council Nigeria, IDP Education Nigeria (which provides study abroad services), Study Group Nigeria (education consulting), Pearson Nigeria (education services), and Cambridge Assessment Nigeria, all of which are actively involved in the market. Additionally, CharterHouse, a British boarding school, is establishing a campus in Lekki, Lagos.

The healthcare sector presents a different scenario. While some British firms like GlaxoSmithKline Nigeria, AstraZeneca Nigeria, and Sanofi Nigeria may have ceased their manufacturing operations due to challenges in importing raw materials, they remain active in the Nigerian market. UK-based healthcare providers such as Medical Tours International and Health Tours Nigeria continue their presence as well.

Contrary to the claims made by the naysayers attempting to tarnish the country’s reputation through misinformation, there has not been a complete withdrawal of foreign firms from Nigeria. Instead, the healthcare companies mentioned have merely adapted their business models, relocating their manufacturing operations due to difficulties in accessing foreign exchange for raw material imports. The same applies to a couple of American firms that also shut down their manufacturing operations in Nigeria.
Nonetheless, what l found out is that they are still engaged in the Nigerian market and may resume manufacturing once the exchange rate stabilizes.

This stabilization is anticipated as foreign exchange receipts increase due to a rise in crude oil production, and as the demand for foreign currency—which has contributed to its scarcity—diminishes. Furthermore, starting in October, petrol marketers will no longer face the challenge of purchasing refined petrol with hard currency, as they have pledged to source products from Dangote Refinery and other local refineries, including the five modular refineries now authorized to produce and sell petrol under a willing buyer, willing seller arrangement.

Given that the headline inflation rate has decreased consistently over the past couple of months—from 33.40% in July to 32.15% in August—thanks to measures implemented by economic management authorities, there is optimism that some manufacturing companies that previously exited may return.

This hope is reinforced by the fact that a nation with a population exceeding 200 million is too significant for any consumer goods manufacturer to overlook. The positive outlook is further supported by the current flow of petrol from Dangote Refineries, which is expected to alleviate pressure on the naira, allowing it to stabilize, as petroleum product imports account for up to 40% of Nigeria's import bill, according to Central Bank of Nigeria,CBN.

With local production and distribution, the excessive pressure on the naira is expected to diminish as the country achieves energy security and is no longer forced to rely on imported petroleum products. This shift is anticipated to contribute to further economic improvements, providing relief and growth that will help alleviate the hardships currently faced by many Nigerians.

Moreover, according to data from NNPC Ltd., Nigeria's crude oil production—the nation's main source of foreign exchange—has recently increased to approximately 1.7 million barrels per day. This is a rise from about 1.2 million barrels per day at the beginning of the current administration roughly seventeen months ago. As a result of this situation, foreign exchange inflows into the economy, which had previously been minimal, are anticipated to improve significantly.

Evidence of the longstanding relationship between the UK and Nigeria, rooted in their colonial past which makes them seem co-joined in the hip, despite the ongoing reforms can be seen in the presence of numerous energy and consulting firms that continue to operate in the sector. In light of the above reality, notable UK-based oil and gas service companies, such as Schlumberger, Halliburton, and Baker Hughes, along with consulting firms like Accenture, McKinsey, and BCG, all maintain energy practices in Nigeria. In the real estate sector, UK firms like Knight Frank, Savills, and CBRE remain active players in the Nigerian market.

The media and advertising industries also feature a robust presence, with entities such as BBC World Service Nigeria, CNN International Nigeria(regional headquarter in london), and UK-based advertising firms like WPP, Omnicom, and Publicis Groupe all operating in Nigeria and collaborating with local companies.

Given the substantial number of UK firms still operating in Nigeria, it raises questions about the outcry regarding foreign firms leaving the country, which seems to stem more from political fearmongering by those who lost in the 2023 presidential elections and their supporters on social media.

The complexities surrounding the pricing and distribution of petrol produced in Nigeria, following the commencement of operations at Dangote Refinery about a month ago, have shifted public sentiment from celebration to disappointment. Many Nigerians are grappling with the realization that refining crude oil locally does not necessarily lead to lower pump prices compared to imported petrol. Although pump prices may not decrease in the short term, the involvement of Nigerian indigenous investors in crude oil refining has its benefits.

In addition to the jobs created by Dangote and other privately owned refineries, the shutdown of several European refineries that previously exported refined petroleum products to Africa, including Nigeria, indicates a positive shift in local employment. This significant development, marked by the participation of indigenous investors in crude oil refining, is expected to alleviate pressure on the naira and strengthen its exchange rate as the demand for foreign exchange to import refined products declines. According to sources from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), refined petroleum imports and gas constituted about 40% of the nation’s import bill before the emergence of Dangote Refinery.

However, the ongoing crisis regarding the pricing and distribution of refined petroleum products in Nigeria has also highlighted the rentier nature of the country’s economy, a characteristic that traces back to the initial arrival of Europeans and their establishment of ties with Africa.

To provide historical context, it's important to remember that Portuguese explorers were the first Europeans to establish contact with Africa, including Nigeria before others arrived. This occurred during the Age of Exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries when Portugal became the first nation to dock in the ancient Benin Kingdom. Their primary motives for engaging with West Africa were exploration and trade. Historical records indicate that Prince Henry the Navigator of Portugal (1394-1460) sponsored voyages to explore the western coast of Africa in search of trade opportunities.

As part of their exploration efforts, Portugal set up trade posts along the West African coast, including sites like Elmina in present-day Ghana (established in 1482) and Badagry in Nigeria, which became a point for the slave trade. Other European powers, including Spain, the Netherlands, Britain, and France, followed suit in their attempts to explore and colonize Africa.

Initially, these invaders sought friendship with African leaders rather than conflict to facilitate trade, which was their primary goal. They presented gifts to win the favor of local kings and, once they gained their trust, turned some into agents for supplying various goods, including cash crops, minerals, and enslaved people.

Interestingly, as some of these companies with roots in advanced economies withdraw from Nigeria, indigenous investors and firms like Dangote Industries, Globacom, Airpeace, and Innoson Motors are stepping in to fill the gap. Despite this positive development, some Nigerians mistakenly criticize their country and the current government for the departure of some foreign firms, which are essentially and more often than not instruments of imperialism. To be clear, while one is not averse to foreign investments in our economy because they are critical to the success of any economy as they serve as catalysts for expansion, local entrepreneurs need to be in control of some critical areas of the economy that are strategic to the security of the country.

But the misguided critiques often making false claims about exodus of foreign firms are motivated by news headlines influenced by Western bias, as Western media largely controls global information order and shapes public opinion. This narrative of the West controlling world information order is being challenged by platforms such as Nduka Obaigbena’s Arise TV, John Momoh’s Channels TV, the late Raymond Dokpesi’s Africa Independent Television (AIT), and James Ibori’s News Central Television (NC), which are expanding their influence via their growing footprints like in Africa and globally. They aspire to be in pole position like the BBC from the UK which promotes a European perspective, while CNN presents a North American viewpoint.

Just as the aforementioned media outlets have long been representing their regions, Al Jazeera from the Arab world has been similarly asserting the influence of the Arab world on Africa in the past decade, and CCTV from China is beginning to establish a presence in Nigeria through partnerships with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) with which the Chinese hopes to also assert her influence over Nigeria.

Without the aforementioned indigenous media platforms, Nigeria, and Africa as a whole, would have continued to struggle to have a voice on the global stage, hence the continent is often regarded as marginalized and lacking a promising future. However, this scenario is set to improve as Nigeria actively seeks a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, a goal promoted during the recently concluded 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.

For those who criticize President Bola Tinubu’s administration for alleged mismanagement of the economy and attribute the departure of a coupe of European and American companies to it, it’s important to reconsider this perspective. The exit of these firms may not be negative, especially if local investors are taking their place. This shift could be indicative of an emerging African renaissance.

This renaissance is reflected in the increased trade initiatives among African nations, particularly through the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), which aims to enhance trade between countries on the continent. Based in Ghana, AfCFTA seeks to eliminate significant trade barriers, such as stringent immigration regulations that historically made it easier for citizens of European, American, Asian, and Arab nations to enter countries like South Africa for instance while Nigerians faced excessive scrutiny when applying for visas.

In light of this context,for the sake of emphasis it is worth repeating that it is regrettable that some Nigerians are erroneously claiming that the recent departure of a few foreign firms signifies Nigeria’s economic decline. In reality, their exit represents the ongoing recalibration of our economy, driven by the reform policies of the current administration.

To understand this better, we can look at the historical context of European arrival in Africa and their transition from trade partners to colonial rulers, a dynamic that persisted until the United Nations passed a resolution in 1960 calling for the independence of European colonies. For instance, Nigeria, as a former British colony, is home to Crown Agents, the trading arm of the British monarchy.

While Crown Agents no longer engage in the slave trade—once a major source of wealth for the British monarchy—it is known that the monarchy possesses substantial real estate holdings in central London and throughout the UK, some of which were likely acquired using profits from the slave trade.

A significant portion of the British monarchy's wealth is indeed linked to the proceeds from the slave trade, but other sources of wealth include the extraction of resources from colonized nations, such as gold, other solid minerals/precious stones, and oil and gas. This explains the estimated wealth of the British monarchy, which is around £40 billion (approximately USD 52 billion).

Given this context, it raises the question: what lessons have Nigerians learned from the foreign firms that have been operating here since the 1950s? In the pharmaceutical sector, for instance, indigenous companies like Emzor Pharmaceuticals are successfully competing with foreign firms, leading to the exit of some of these foreign competitors. Allow me to once again reiterate that while this is a positive development, some misinformed Nigerians are mistakenly portraying it as evidence of a toxic business environment resulting from ongoing socioeconomic reforms in the country.

Let’s consider Guinness and Nigerian Breweries as examples. Their operations in Nigeria remain subsidiaries of European parent companies based in Scotland and the Netherlands, and no local investor is competing in this sector. Although there have been efforts by indigenous investors, such as the Ibrus in Delta State, who introduced the Skoll beer brand through the brewery located in Ughelli in the 1980s. This venture ultimately failed after a few years. Similarly, Jos Breweries produced the Trophy brand, along with a few others in the southwest and southeast, but they also did not survive, even with technical partnerships with European or other foreign brewers.

In contrast, South Africa boasts its indigenous beer brand, Lion Lager, which was first brewed in the 1920s. SABMiller, founded in South Africa in 1895, operates a brewery in Onitsha in partnership with Anambra State, though it is now owned by Belgium-based AB InBev.

The disappointing state of the beer brewing industry in Nigeria stands in stark contrast to the developments in crude oil and petrol refining that began in the late 1950s. For instance, Royal Dutch Shell Petroleum Company, co-owned by British and Dutch investors, has been operating in Nigeria since 1936. Shortly before, crude oil was discovered in Oloibiri, Bayelsa State, in the Niger Delta region in 1956 according OPEC records. Shell is now retreating by moving offshore after selling its onshore assets to local firms. Following the movement giants like Shell into the deepsea, locals like Midwest Oil and Gas, Transcorp Energy, and Next Oil etc are now engaged in exploration onshore.

In addition to indigenous oil and gas exploration companies that have been competing with foreign firms in oil extraction for roughly the past two decades—following the government's decision to uncap the so-called marginal oil fields, which refers to wells too small for large foreign firms—there are also modular refineries that have been addressing the gap left by the failure of the four refineries established by the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) under NNPC Ltd, which had a combined capacity of 445,000 liters per day.

The prevalence of International Oil Companies (IOCs) in the oil and gas sector is largely due to flawed government’s policies,predating PIA reforms which effectively sidelines local investors from the industry.

This concerning situation, stemming from the flawed structure primarily serves neo-colonial interests and their local allies, who have established a system that had weakened indigenous Nigerian investors. Regrettably, some Nigerians involved in this setup are self-serving civil servants who prioritize personal gain through kickbacks over the nation's welfare, which should be their primary concern. This behavior mirrors the term “useful idiots,” originally coined by former Soviet leader Joseph Stalin during the Cold War to describe Western proponents of communism. In the context of Nigeria today, it accurately describes those who may unintentionally support neo-colonial or imperial agendas.

Against this backdrop, the inauguration of the 650,000 bpd Dangote Refinery as a domestic oil refining company is viewed as a form of second independence for Nigeria. It enables citizens to access refined petroleum products without the need for imports, a reliance that has lasted for the past three decades. The importance of this development is therefore underscored by the scheduled start of crude oil supply to the Dangote Refinery from NNPC Ltd on October 1st, coinciding with Nigeria’s political independence from Britain in 1960.

Moreover, with Dangote Refinery providing an opportunity for energy independence, major petroleum marketers have opted to procure their products exclusively from the refinery and the soon to be commissioned modular refineries instead of relying on imports. This shift could help ease the pressure on the naira, considering that 40% of Nigeria’s import bill is devoted to petrol, oil, and gas. Consequently, the country may be on the brink of an economic revival.

In summary, on this momentous occasion marking Nigeria’s 64th independence from British political control, we also acknowledge a "Second Independence" from economic reliance through the development of indigenous refineries like Dangote Refinery, along with five modular refineries currently in operation and several more in various stages of establishment. This transition is further supported by local firms stepping in to occupy the space left by foreign companies resistant to ongoing reforms.
On the new fervor of renaissance sweeping across Africa and Nigeria in particular,l have discussed in other interventions in this column how Alhaji Aliko Dangote is about to help Nigeria achieve energy independence and by extension economic renaissance in the way that the likes of Chief Mike Adenuga about 20 years ago pioneered the independence of Nigeria in the telecommunications sector with Globacom; Mr. Allen Onyema has accomplished filling the gap in the aviation sector with Airpeace and what Mr. Innocent Chukwuma is currently doing in the motor vehicles manufacturing sector with Innosson Vehicle Manufacturing, IVM.
Thus, as a country Nigeria is exhibiting remarkable autonomy by having indigenous investors show a significant presence in the oil/gas, telecommunications, airlines, and automotive, landscapes of our country.
So, by and large, the nation at its 64th independence is weaning itself of too much dependence on foreign-made goods and services through the efforts of the aforementioned entrepreneurs and their brands.
As Nigeria’s past colonizer, the role of Uk for instance should be the mentoring and nurturing of Nigeria’s political leaders and businesses.
Arising from the above fact, if Nigerian entrepreneurs are taking the driver’s seat of strategic businesses that will help guarantee the sovereignty of Nigeria through the entrepreneurial skills of Dangote, Adenuga, Onyema, and Chukwuma amongst others, it is a welcome and worthy development which our political leaders should encourage as our beloved country clocks 64.

Magnus Onyibe, an entrepreneur, public policy analyst, author, democracy advocate, development strategist, alumnus of the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University, Massachusetts, USA, and a former commissioner in the Delta State government, sent this piece from Lagos, Nigeria.
To continue with this conversation and more, please visit www.magnum.ng.

The Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS)  Mr Haliru Nabana have said that Mr Idris Okuneye, a cross dresser popularly known as Bobrisky, served his jail term in correctional facility in Lagos state.

Nababa stated this while addressing the House of Representatives Committee investigating alleged bribery and misconduct against the NCS and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja on Monday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Bobrisky was convicted for mutilating the naira and was sentenced to six months in jail.

NAN recalls that Mr Vincent Otse, social media influencer and human rights activist known as Very Dark Man (VDM) published an audio recording which captured Bobrisky allegedly saying that he spent his jail term in a private apartment.

The audio also captured Bobrisky allegedly saying that he paid N15 million to EFCC officials to drop charges of money laundering against him.

Nanaba, however, explained to the committee that Bobrisky was convicted and was incarcerated from April 12 to August 13, 2024 in the facility.

He said that there was no time when Bobrisky was allowed outside the correctional facility saying that there are records of his activities in jail to show that he was in the facility.

He, however, said that as a result of special features such as mammary gland and curvy hips which portrays Bobrisky like a women, he kept in a private cell away from other inmates.

According to him, this is inline with international best practices as it is to protect his human right and to protect him against violation by other inmates.

NaAbba also said that for security reasons, Bobrisky was at a point, moved from Medium Security Custodian Centre to Maximum Security Custodian Centre all within the correctional facility.

In his remarks, the Executive Chairman of EFCC, Mr Olanipekun Olukoyede said that no money was received to drop charges against Bobrisky.

Represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr Michael Nzekwe, Olukoyede said that in April, 2024, Bobrisky while undergoing investigation, in his extra-judicial statement made a confession.

He said that Bobrisky was alleged to have failed to submit to Special Control Unit against Money Laundering (SCUML) a declaration of its activities of his firm, Bob Express.

According to Olukoyede, this is contrary to Section 6(1) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022

“Notwithstanding the unequivocal confession of the now ex-convict admitting the essential ingredients, the prosecution in total fidelity and candor to its oath and strict adherence to professional practice of not only disclosing exculpatory documents to the defense.

“We received a report of the investigation activities from SCUML which showed that Bob Express is not a Designated Non-Financial Business and Profession (DNFBP),

“We then decided to drop the charge in the interest of justice and fair hearing, without any inducement or prompting of any sort from the defense, and in line with the mandate of the Special Task Force against Naira abuse,” he said.

Earlier, VDM told the committee that he has more evidence yet to be released to the public saying that he would continue to fight corruption.

He said that while other Nigerians are in jail for offenses committed, Bobrisky should not be given any form of special treatment.

“Nigeria is not for the godfathers, I will not allow corruption, if I see a secret about you, I will tell, I am being very honest, I will not fear anybody because Nigeria is going down.

“I will implore you people to do the right thing because the judiciary system is been messed up so bad, you people have to to save your face,” he said.

He, however, tendered some part of the evidence to the committee and promise to release more as the investigation progresses.

He told the committee to ensure Bobrisky appears before it and not to tolerate any further  disrespect from him.

In his ruling, the Chairman of the Committee, Rep. Ginger Onwusibe (LP-Abia) said that Bobrisky must appear in person in their next hearing.

He demanded video footage of the activities of Bobrisky through out his terms in the correctional facility.

The chairman said that the accounts provided by VDM into which the allayed money for bribe was paid into will be investigated.

The hearing was then adjourned to a further date to announced.

NAN reports that Bobrisky was absent at the hearing and his counsel who came to represent him was not recognised to speak as he had no letter or approval to speak on his behalf.

(NAN)

President Bola Tinubu addressed the nation to mark its 64th Independence Anniversary on October 1.

Here, Vanguard highlights ten (10) key points from the President’s speech:

Economic Reforms: Tinubu acknowledged the economic difficulties, including rising living costs and unemployment. He urged Nigerians to remain patient, assuring them that reforms are beginning to yield positive results. “I want to assure you that your voices are heard… we are beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel.”

Security Achievements: The President announced progress in the fight against terrorism and banditry, stating that over 300 Boko Haram and bandit commanders have been eliminated. “Our administration is winning the war on terror and banditry… we have restored peace to hundreds of communities.”

Return of Displaced Persons: Tinubu shared that many Nigerians in conflict zones are returning to their homes. “Thousands of our people have been able to return home… our security agencies are committed to ending this as quickly as possible.”

Natural Disasters Response: In response to recent flooding, the President announced the creation of a Disaster Relief Fund and integrity tests for dams. “This federal government will always stand with our people in their times of trouble.”

Foreign Investments: Nigeria attracted over $30 billion in foreign direct investments within the past year. “Thanks to the reforms, our country attracted foreign direct investments worth more than $30 billion.”

Agriculture and Food Security: Tinubu emphasised the importance of mechanised farming and highlighted the establishment of a tractor assembly plant to boost food production and reduce costs. “We expect to see a leap in food production and a downward spiral in food costs.”

Energy Transition: The President confirmed the expansion of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) usage in mass transit to lower transportation costs. “Our energy transition programme is on course… to provide cheaper public transportation.”

Youth Empowerment: Tinubu announced a National Youth Conference and several youth-centred initiatives, including the 3 Million Technical Talents programme and the Nigerian Education Loan Fund. “This conference will empower our young people to participate actively in nation-building.”

Fiscal Responsibility: The administration has reduced Nigeria’s debt service ratio and paid off significant inherited debts, maintaining stable foreign reserves. “We have reduced the debt service ratio from 97 per cent to 68 per cent.”

Unity and Resilience: Tinubu urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and united in the face of challenges. “We are Nigerians—resilient and tenacious. We always prevail and rise above our circumstances.”

[Vanguard]