The Christian Association of Nigeria, on Sunday, congratulated the country on the occasion of her 63rd Independence Day anniversary with a call on the Federal Government to stabilise the economy.
According to the association, the recent fall of the Naira against major world currencies, particularly the dollar, has seriously affected Nigerians.
CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, stated these in his Independence Day message.
The FG, he said, should also do more to combat terrorism and banditry in Nigeria.
He said, “This significant milestone reminds us of the progress we have made as a nation and the challenges that lie ahead. As we reflect on our journey, we urge the government to prioritise addressing the pressing economic challenges and the escalating state of insecurity in our beloved country.
“CAN acknowledges the need for urgent measures to stabilise the Nigerian economy. The recent fall of the Naira against major world currencies, particularly the dollar, has had a profound impact on the lives of ordinary Nigerians.
“We call on the government to implement sustainable economic policies that will bolster our local currency, stimulate investments and revitalise key sectors.”
The statement read further, “By fostering an enabling environment for entrepreneurship and providing necessary support to small and medium-sized enterprises, we can create jobs and alleviate poverty, ultimately improving the quality of life for all citizens.
“Moreover, the escalating state of insecurity, especially in the South East region, demands immediate attention. We express deep concern over the spate of violence and bloodshed that has plagued communities, leading to loss of lives and displacement of innocent citizens.”
The Christian association implored the “government to intensify efforts in combating terrorism, banditry, and all forms of criminal activities”
It added that adequate resources should be allocated to security agencies and called for collaboration with local communities.
It noted that in fighting terrorism, intelligence gathering must be strengthened.
“Restoring peace and security is vital not only for the affected regions but for the entire nation, as it will enable people to return to their farms, fostering food security and sustainable development.
“Furthermore, we emphasise the need for unity and national cohesion. Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity, and we must harness this diversity for the common good of all citizens. Together, we can build bridges of understanding and foster an environment where all citizens feel valued and protected.”
CAN encourages the government to prioritise quality education and healthcare which are “fundamental rights that must be guaranteed to every Nigerian. By investing in these critical sectors, we empower our youth with knowledge and skills and ensure the well-being of our citizens, particularly the vulnerable.”
Okoh said CAN was aware of the ongoing negotiations between the FG and labour unions regarding the removal of fuel subsidies.
He advised both parties to find a balanced solution that minimises the impact on vulnerable Nigerians.
Okoh said, “The removal of subsidies is a significant economic adjustment with far-reaching consequences. We understand the government’s reasons but acknowledge the resulting distress and hardship.”
“In conclusion, as we celebrate Nigeria’s 63rd Independence anniversary, let us not forget the challenges that confront us.
“CAN remains committed to promoting initiatives towards a prosperous and peaceful Nigeria. By doing so, we can achieve sustainable development, foster peace, and create a nation where every Nigerian can thrive,” he said.
[Punch]
Tinubu’s appeal fails as US court orders Chicago university to release academic records to Atiku within 48hrs
AdminThe United States District Court in Northern Illinois has given Chicago State University (CSU) 48 hours starting from Saturday to release President Bola Tinubu’s academic records to an opposition candidate in Nigeria’s February presidential election, Atiku Abubakar.
In a ruling delivered on Saturday, the judge, Nancy Maldonado, after dismissing Tinubu’s objection, gave the university until 12 noon on Monday to release the documents to Atiku.
Maldonando dismissed Tinubu’s objection to the 20 September decision of a magistrate judge of the court, Jeffery Gilbert.
The judge on Saturday fully affirmed Gilbert’s ruling ordering the CSU to release Tinubu’s academic records as requested by Atiku. She insisted Atiku had the right to have access to the records.
“For the reasons stated in the Court’s accompanying Memorandum Opinion and Order, the Court overrules Tinubu’s objections (44] and adopts Judge Gilbert’s recommended decision [40] in full.
“The Court therefore grants Abubakar’s application under 28 U.S.C. § 1782. [1],” Maldonado ruled.
She said the CSU must complete all necessary filings with regard to the release by 5 p.m. on Tuesday.
“Respondent CSU is directed to produce all relevant and non-privileged documents in response to Requests for Production Nos. 1 through 4 (as narrowed by Judge Gilbert and adopted by the District Court in its opinion) in Abubakar’s subpoena, by 12:00 p.m. (noon) CDT, on Monday, October 2, 2023.
“The Rule 30(b)(6) deposition of CSU’s corporate designee must be completed by 5:00 p.m. CDT on Tuesday, October 3, 2023,” the court ordered.
Atiku had asked for the documents for use in Nigerian courts to support his argument that Tinubu forged a diploma certificate he claimed to have obtained from CSU in 1979 and submitted to Nigeria’s electoral body, INEC, for the 2023 presidential election.
This, Atiku argued, goes to the root of Tinubu’s qualification to contest the last presidential election.
Although Atiku lost his case against Tinubu at the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal which delivered its judgement in early September, he hopes to reintroduce the issue backed with the documents from the CSU in his appeal which he is pursuing against the election court’s decision at the Nigerian Supreme Court.
Atiku had told the US district court that he had up to 5 October to file the documents from the CSU against Tinubu at the Supreme Court.
Tinubu mounted stiff opposition to the release of the documents to Atiku, arguing that “the Nigerian election proceedings and the Nigerian courts” had explicitly rejected the documents Atiku sought to obtain and tender in his case aimed at overturning the results of the 25 presidential elections.
Tinubu’s second reason is that Atiku’s request “is unduly intrusive because it allows Applicant (Atiku) to conduct a fishing expedition into Intervenor’s private, confidential, and protected educational records.”
Court order not confirmation of Atiku’s forgery allegation
But dismissing Tinubu’s objection on Saturday, Maldonado said she was only affirming Atiku’s right to have access to the CSU documents, not confirming the merit of his allegations against the Nigerian president or his comments on the validity of the country’s presidential election.
“In reaching this conclusion, the Court emphasises that it is expressing no view on the merits of Abubakar’s underlying claims regarding Tinubu or his graduation from CSU, or on the validity of the Nigerian election.
“Nor is the Court taking any position on what any of the documents or testimony from CSU may or may not ultimately show. The Court simply finds, on the narrow question before it, that Abubakar is entitled to the production of documents and testimony that he seeks from CSU,” a summary of the judgement read in part.
‘No more order of stay’
Given the time constraints Atiku has to file the CSU documents at Nigeria’s Supreme Court, Maldonado cautioned Tinubu not to bother applying for a stay of the order, as such application would be denied.
She said his only option is to take up such an application for a stay of execution at the US Court of Appeals.
“Given the October 5, 2023 filing deadline before the Supreme Court of Nigeria, the Court will not extend or modify these deadlines.
“Further, the Court notes that at the recent emergency hearing, the possibility of a stay pending an appeal to the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals was raised. The Court cautions Tinubu that any request for a stay before this Court will be denied, as the Court finds any stay impracticable in light of the fast-approaching Supreme Court of Nigeria deadlines.
“Tinubu is, of course, free to request a stay directly from the Seventh Circuit should he file any appeal. Judgment is entered in favour of Atiku Abubakar.”
As of Sunday morning, it was not clear if Tinubu had filed an appeal at the US Court of Appeals.
Tinubu’s CSU documents ordered for release
The court ordered CSU to release four sets of documents relating to Tinubu as requested by Atiku.
They are true and correct copies of:
*An exemplar of a Chicago State University diploma issued to President Tinubu in 1979;
*Mr Tinubu’s diploma issued in 1979;
*Any exemplar of a Chicago State University diploma that “contains the same font, seal, signatures, and wording as contained in Exhibit C to the First Liu Declaration, which purports to be a CSU diploma issued to Tinubu on or about June 22, 1979″; and
* The CSU documents that were certified and produced by Jamar Orr (an associate general counsel at CSU) as well as communications relating to these documents.
The Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has directed its members to prepare for an indefinite strike starting on October 3rd.
The strike is the labour union’s response to the Nigerian government’s removal of fuel subsidies, which has led to a sharp increase in fuel prices.
NUPENG members include the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD), who are responsible for transporting fuel across the country.
A strike by NUPENG could cripple the fuel distribution network and lead to shortages across Nigeria.
The union has accused the government of being insensitive to the Nigerian people’s plight and failing to provide adequate social safety nets to help people cope with the rising cost of living.
NUPENG has also warned that the strike could have a devastating impact on the Nigerian economy.
The government has said it is committed to dialogue with NUPENG and other labour unions but has refused to reverse its decision to remove fuel subsidies.
The strike is a significant test for the Nigerian government and could have far-reaching consequences for the country.
[BusinessDay]
According to the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), an investigation has been launched into an alleged healthcare neglect by Maitama District Hospital in Abuja, which resulted in the death of one Ms Greatness Olorunfemi.
The FCCPC said in a statement issued on Saturday by its Executive Vice Chairman, Mr Babatunde Irukera, that the investigation was launched to determine whether Olorunfemi’s death was caused by a failure outlined in the commission’s Patients’ Bill of Rights (PBoR).
Irukera said the investigation was also to know other enforceable legal instruments regarding attention and care to patients generally, especially in emergency situations where victims of criminal conduct required medical attention.
He said the commission welcomed the statement of the Office of FCT Secretary for Health Services and Environment, announcing a transparent broad investigation including a Coroner’s Inquest into the matter.
”FCCPC commiserates with Ms. Greatness Olorunfemi’s family, friends and associates who are affected by this tragic loss.
”There are disputed accounts of whether she received appropriate care, or delay pending production of a police report, or was brought in Dead on Arrival (DoA).
The commission has opened an investigation accordingly.
”Particular concern is if Olorunfemi died on account of failures implicated in the commission’s Patients’ Bill of Rights (PBoR) or other enforceable legal instruments regarding attention and care to patients generally.
”More specifically, in emergency situations where victims of criminal conduct require attention.
”Considering the facility concerned is a government institution and the commission’s determination to progress a limited inquiry into the consumer protection aspects of the events, the commission immediately engaged relevant stakeholders,” he said.
The executive vice chairman said the commission was looking forward to participating, supporting and collaborating with the FCT administration in the investigation.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Olorunfemi was reportedly thrown from a moving vehicle along the Maitama-Kubwa highway.
She was said to be a member of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Network.
Moyosoluwa Oladayo, the YALI Network Abuja coordinator, said the deceased died due to delay by healthcare workers at the Maitama District Hospital.
“There is a viral video of her when she was thrown out of the vehicle.
She was unconscious and was reportedly taken to Maitama District Hospital where they kept asking for a Police report till she gave up twenty minutes later,” she said.
[OpinionNigeria]
The organised Labour Unions, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) on Saturday vowed that they would embark on the nationwide strike on October 3, 2023.
The union in its 63 Independence anniversary message charged Nigerians, irrespective of ethnic, religious and political differences, to join the nationwide strike.
The labour unions charged royal fathers and other well-meaning Nigerians to advise the government to listen to labour and lessen the suffering across the country.
The unions stated, “This nation can work for all of us. This nation can be made beautiful but good things do not just happen; they are worked out. Liberty is not a ripe fruit that falls to the ground on its own accord. With our hands joined together as the owners of Nigeria, in truth and one heart, we can work for our freedom. Let us awaken this giant and make it work for us.”
In an independent anniversary message titled Nigeria: ‘The travails of a mismanaged giant’, NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, said the struggle from October 3 is for Nigeria to rise and shine once more as a beacon of hope and prosperity for all its citizens.
Ajaero noted that Nigeria, with all its flaws at conception, possesses a great potential to be amongst the best economies of the world.
The statement reads, “As we mark this Independence Day, let us do so with a renewed sense of purpose. Let us acknowledge our past, confront our present challenges, and collectively work towards a brighter future for Nigeria.
“Together, we can reclaim the greatness that has eluded us for too long. It is time for Nigeria to rise and shine once more as a beacon of hope and prosperity for all its citizens. Remember, when we stand as one refusing to be divided, we will triumph. We call on all Nigerians to join us on the 3rd day of October around Nigeria to begin our march to freedom through the indefinite nationwide strike.
“To this end, the Nigeria Labour Congress beckons on all of us to join hands from all parts of the nation; the North, the East, the West and the South to build the needed coalition to make our nation truly an independent nation.
“As we celebrate Nigeria’s 63rd independence anniversary, it is important that we draw our attention to the fact that this nation was once a great nation filled with great hope inspired by great leaders until inept and corrupt leaders took over the helms of affairs and ran the country aground. The crisis of leadership is truly the crisis of our national development.
“The continued mismanagement of our resources has made it difficult for us as a nation and as a people to make sustainable progress rather, we have continued to march backwards with every preceding year looking worse than the previous one.
“Regrettably, the decades that followed were marked by a series of missteps, mismanagement, and missed opportunities. The erosion of ethical governance, rampant corruption, and political instability became defining features of our nation. Instead of harnessing our potential for the collective good, our leaders often pursued personal interests, leaving the masses to grapple with the consequences.
“There is no other way to explain the fact that about 43 years ago, Nigeria had a vibrant Airline called Nigeria Airways with a large fleet of Aircraft flying to several parts of the globe and owning large properties which span almost half of Ikeja GRA and in London and capital cities of Europe. We had a national Shipping line that had in its fleet several Vessels which competed favourably with other shipping lines all over the world.
“Yet, as a nation, we have managed to deliberately become a nation with neither a national Airline nor a national shipping line. We became a nation that derives happiness in making a mockery of ourselves as was typified by the Nigeria Air debacle where we had to fake the ownership of an Airline by shamelessly borrowing and repainting an Aircraft from Ethiopian Airlines.
“This period of independence must serve as a time when all of us have to seriously seek to question ourselves and thoroughly re-examine our actions as a people and as a nation.
“We have to soberly reflect on why we have moved from a once prosperous nation to become a country that is the poverty capital of the world with over 133 million multi-dimensionally poor people. This number has since increased after the hike in the price of petrol (PMS) by His Excellency Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“It is indeed an opportunity to find how we have moved to a nation that had a refinery that was operational in the 1960s which grew into another three refineries in the 1980s but which have been deliberately made obsolete by those we have entrusted the leadership of our nation.
“Nigerians must seek to find out why we have become a nation that must import a product which can easily be refined in our nation and why the conscious sabotage of our economy by those who occupy the helm of affairs in our country? We must make a conscious effort to find out what the phantom called fuel subsidy is, how much was it worth, who was receiving the monies claimed to have been spent and why the obvious lies when the Direct Sales and Direct Purchase (DSDP) agreement was the framework for the import and distribution of products in Nigeria?
“Also of great importance is the willful bastardisation of the Naira and the attendant Dollarisation of the economy by the nation’s leaders. We need to find out whether truly a genuine foreign exchange market exists in its true sense in Nigeria. Why would the value of the nation’s currency continue a free fall when the value of accruals from crude is rising? What magic has made it difficult for the value of the Naira to remain stable against the Dollar especially when the Dollar is being pummeled all over the world?
“Workers all over Nigeria would want to find out why almost all the privatized entities were sold at a giveaway price to the so-called investors. Why is it that most of them have either been stripped and scrapped or are no longer operational? Who are the real buyers of these entities? We will want to find out who bought the GENCOS and DISCOs, and who bought the Ikot–Abasi Aluminium Smelter company.
“Why it is no longer producing but has been shut down? Nigerians deserve to know and we must ask this question: what is going on here?
“This Independence Day celebration should allow us to ask those who are leading us why they have refused to fund public Universities appropriately and have instead decided to establish and own private universities. We may wish to know why they have turned Nigeria from a country where foreigners took pride in coming for education to a country where the majority of the citizens go abroad to obtain quality tertiary education. We would want to know why the elites have managed to price education out of the reach of the poor.
“It is also an opportunity for Nigerian workers to ask our leaders why our hospitals have been turned into places to go and die instead of places to go and be healed. We would want to find out why our healthcare system used to boast of the patronage of influential individuals and families from all over the world has suddenly become anathema both to foreigners and the Nigerian rich. We want to find out why the rich throng abroad to treat minor ailments instead of making use of our health facilities.
“We want to find out what happened to the Ships in the defunct Nigeria Shipping line and what happened to the Aircraft and properties of Nigeria Airways that were scattered all over the world. Who acquired them and at how much and where is the money from their acquisition? It will also be interesting to find out who acquired the Steel companies and why none of them is producing steel today.
“Much more, Nigerian workers will want to find out why it has become difficult for an army that fought the Civil war and won, fought in Lebanon, Sierra Leone and Liberia to defeat the Boko Haram insurgents. We want to find out whether it is a deliberate tool to keep Nigeria in perpetual crisis.
“One of the most painful aspects of Nigeria’s journey has been the economic struggles faced by the majority of our citizens. Despite being blessed with abundant natural resources, poverty and unemployment have become entrenched in our society. The promise of prosperity for all remains elusive, as a significant portion of our population continues to live in abject poverty.
“Moreover, social disparities have widened, with a yawning gap between the privileged few and the marginalized many. Access to quality healthcare, education, and basic
infrastructure remains a distant dream for millions of Nigerians. This inequality not only undermines our social fabric but also hampers our collective progress.”
[NaijaNews]
The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the February 25 general election, Peter Obi, has enjoined Nigerians not to despair over the agonizing situation in the country 63 years after independence from colonial rule.
Obi tasked Nigerians to remain resolute and hopeful that a new Nigeria is still possible.
Obi, in an Independence message to Nigerians, on Saturday, said: ”Even amidst grave uncertainties and apparent hardship, the citizens of Nigeria are experiencing due to persistent leadership failure after 63 years of our nationhood, the situation might be critical, but certainly not hopeless.”
The LP presidential standard bearer noted that the real reason Nigerians have remained visibly mired in poor governance and poverty after 63 years is that successive administrations through policies actions and inactions have attempted to suppress conscientious people, for them to remain at the helm of power.
He said, “The evidence of elite consensus on the way forward on structure and nation-building remains a core problem.”
Obi drew analogy between a nation’s life and parameters of modern technology; “if the input is garbage in then the output will be garbage out.
“When you Google a subject, the response you get will be based on the questions you input. Every nation invariably determines its own fate and destiny; and gets a leadership they deserve.
“Nigeria cannot be an exception. If we subscribe to rogue leadership, then we must face the attending consequences,” he declared.
Obi also said, “At 63 years, what type of questions are Nigerians asking of their leaders and what type of answer are we expecting?
“If at 63 years we cannot conduct an election to allow the will of the people to prevail, what type of country do we expect?
The presidential candidate of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the 2023 general election, Atiku Abubakar, has said Nigeria is celebrating its 63rd independence at a crossroads.
According to him, the nation which is yet to attain its full potentials has so much to be grateful for, especially for the industry of its youths in various fields, whose achievements have led to the hoisting of the national flag across the globe.
Atiku said this in his Independence Day message to Nigerians, in Abuja, on Saturday.
The former Vice President and Wazirin Adamawa explained that this year’s Independence Day “is coming at a time when the country is at a crossroads in many aspects of our national lives.
“Sixty-three years ago, when this great country acquired independence, it was upon the promise of abundant prosperity and the principle of social justice.
“As a nation, we have continued to struggle to manifest the dreams of our founding fathers in upholding the promises of shared prosperity and social justice.
“We have encountered great moments when the flag of our dear country flew tall on the global stage through the industry of our sportsmen and women, the prolific distinction of our academia and the top notch artistry of Nigerian talents in the global music scene.
“The talents and doggedness of young Nigerians who have refused to give up on the country are the inspiration for a greater future that we celebrate today.
“The energy of the Nigerian youth is a formidable force in the consternation of manpower and skills that power the global economy.
“Across the globe, and in various fields of human endeavour, the youth of this country have proven to have the competence to rival any of their peers from any part of the world.
“That success – the gallantry of our youth – is the primal element of what we celebrate today as a nation.”
He went on to say, “Therefore, for me, the challenge before us all is in ensuring that the political leadership in the country that we call home should be worthy of our pride as a people and not of telling embarrassment.
“Our democracy has triumphed so far due to the fidelity of our conviction that a democracy, when properly nurtured, should bring out the best in us and of us.
“As Nigerians, we are all not unfamiliar with the hardships in the economy, security, and other vital aspects of our society.
“While I enjoin us all to submit our strengths in faith to the Almighty God, we must be prepared to do our best to pull the country back from this point of uncertainty to a place of common safety.
“I congratulate fellow Nigerians, alongside friends and well wishers of our dear country across the globe, and wish you a happy Independence Day.
“God bless you all, and may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
Unveils provisional wage increment
President Bola Tinubu has said that his administration is introducing a provisional wage increment to enhance the federal minimum wage without causing undue inflation.
To this end, the President said for the next six months, the average low-grade worker shall receive an additional N25,000 per month.
He promised a thorough housecleaning of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, which he described as the den of malfeasance, adding that his special investigator will soon present his findings on past lapses and how to prevent similar reoccurrences.
These among others were contained in Tinubu’s nationwide broadcast, this morning, to mark Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Anniversary.
The President commended the founding fathers and mothers of the country, stressing that without them,there would be no modern Nigeria.
He, however, was silent on the indefinite strike by the Organized Labour expected to commence on Wednesday, October 3.
Full text of broadcast:
Dear Compatriots,
It is my unique honour to address you on this day, the 63rd anniversary of our nation’s independence, both as the President of our dear country and, simply, as a fellow Nigerian.
2.On this solemn yet hopeful day, let us commend our founding fathers and mothers.
Without them, there would be no modern Nigeria. From the fading embers of colonialism, their activism, dedication and leadership gave life to the belief in Nigeria as a sovereign and independent nation.
- Let us, at this very moment, affirm that, as Nigerians, we are all endowed with the sacred rights and individual gifts that God has bestowed on us as a nation and as human beings. No one is greater or lesser than the other. The triumphs that Nigeria has achieved shall define us.
The travails we have endured shall strengthen us. And no other nation or power on this earth shall keep us from our rightful place and destiny. This nation belongs to you, dear people. Love and cherish it as your very own.
4.Nigeria is remarkable in its formation and essential character. We are a broad and dynamic blend of ethnic groups, religions, traditions and cultures. Yet, our bonds are intangible yet strong, invisible yet universal.
We are joined by a common thirst for peace and progress, by the common dream of prosperity and harmony and by the unifying ideals of tolerance and justice.
5.Forging a nation based on the fair application of these noble principles to a diverse population has been a task of significant blessing but also serial challenge.
Some people have said an independent Nigeria should never have come into existence. Some have said that our country would be torn apart.
They are forever mistaken. Here, our nation stands and here we shall remain.
6.This year, we passed a significant milestone in our journey to a better Nigeria. By democratically electing a 7th consecutive civilian government, Nigeria has proven that commitment to democracy and the rule of law remains our guiding light.
7.At my inauguration, I made important promises about how I would govern this great nation. Among those promises were pledges to reshape and modernize our economy and to secure the lives, liberty and property of the people.
8.I said that bold reforms were necessary to place our nation on the path of prosperity and growth. On that occasion, I announced the end of the fuel subsidy.
- I am attuned to the hardships that have come. I have a heart that feels and eyes that see. I wish to explain to you why we must endure this trying moment.
Those who sought to perpetuate the fuel subsidy and broken foreign exchange policies are people who would build their family mansion in the middle of a swamp.
I am different. I am not a man to erect our national home on a foundation of mud. To endure, our home must be constructed on safe and pleasant ground.
10.Reform may be painful, but it is what greatness and the future require. We now carry the costs of reaching a future Nigeria where the abundance and fruits of the nation are fairly shared among all, not hoarded by a select and greedy few. A Nigeria where hunger, poverty and hardship are pushed into the shadows of an ever fading past.
11.There is no joy in seeing the people of this nation shoulder burdens that should have been shed years ago. I wish today’s difficulties did not exist. But we must endure if we are to reach the good side of our future.
12.My government is doing all that it can to ease the load. I will now outline the path we are taking to relieve the stress on our families and households.
13.We have embarked on several public sector reforms to stabilize the economy, direct fiscal and monetary policy to fight inflation, encourage production, ensure the security of lives and property and lend more support to the poor and the vulnerable.
14.Based on our talks with labour, business and other stakeholders, we are introducing a provisional wage increment to enhance the federal minimum wage without causing undue inflation. For the next six months, the average low-grade worker shall receive an additional Twenty-Five Thousand naira per month.
15.To ensure better grassroots development, we set up an Infrastructure Support Fund for states to invest in critical areas. States have already received funds to provide relief packages against the impact of rising food and other prices.
16.Making the economy more robust by lowering transport costs will be key. In this regard, we have opened a new chapter in public transportation through the deployment of cheaper, safer Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses across the nation. These buses will operate at a fraction of current fuel prices, positively affecting transport fares.
17.New CNG conversions kits will start coming in very soon as all hands are on deck to fast track the usually lengthy procurement process. We are also setting up training facilities and workshops across the nation to train and provide new opportunities for transport operators and entrepreneurs.
This is a groundbreaking moment where, as a nation, we embrace more efficient means to power our economy. In making this change, we also make history.
- I pledged a thorough housecleaning of the den of malfeasance the CBN had become. That housecleaning is well underway. A new leadership for the Central Bank has been constituted. Also, my special investigator will soon present his findings on past lapses and how to prevent similar reoccurrences. Henceforth, monetary policy shall be for the benefit of all and not the exclusive province of the powerful and wealthy.
19.Wise tax policy is essential to economic fairness and development. I have inaugurated a Committee on Tax Reforms to improve the efficiency of tax administration in the country and address fiscal policies that are unfair or hinder the business environment and slow our growth.
20.To boost employment and urban incomes, we are providing investment funding for enterprises with great potential. Similarly, we are increasing investment in micro, small and medium-sized enterprises.
21.Commencing this month, the social safety net is being extended through the expansion of cash transfer programs to an additional 15 million vulnerable households.
22.My administration shall always accord the highest priority to the safety of the people. Inter-Service collaboration and intelligence sharing have been enhanced. Our Service Chiefs have been tasked with the vital responsibility of rebuilding the capacities of our security services.
23.Here, I salute and commend our gallant security forces for keeping us safe and securing our territorial integrity. Many have paid the ultimate sacrifice. We remember them today and their families. We shall equip our forces with the ways and means needed to perform their urgent task on behalf of the people,
24.We shall continue to make key appointments in line with the provisions of the Constitution and with fairness toward all. Women, Youth and the physically challenged shall continue to be given due regard in these appointments.
25.May I take this opportunity to congratulate the National Assembly for its role in the quick take-off of this administration through the performance of its constitutional duties of confirmation and oversight.
26.I similarly congratulate the judiciary as a pillar of democracy and fairness.
27.I also thank members of our dynamic civil society organizations and labour unions for their dedication to Nigerian democracy. We may not always agree but I value your advice and recommendations. You are my brothers and sisters and you have my due respect.
28.Fellow compatriots, the journey ahead will not be navigated by fear or hatred. We can only achieve our better Nigeria through courage, compassion and commitment as one indivisible unit.
- I promise that I shall remain committed and serve faithfully. I also invite all to join this enterprise to remake our beloved nation into its better self. We can do it. We must do it. We shall do it.!!!
- I wish you all a happy 63rd Independence Anniversary.
31.Thank you for listening. - May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
President Bola Tinubu has said the average low-grade worker in the country shall receive an additional N25,000 per month.
The president also said discussions are ongoing with the organised labour and other stakeholders in the private sector on achieving minimum wage without causing inflation.
Tinubu made this known in his address of the Nigeria’s 63rd Independence anniversary delivered in Abuja on Sunday.
“Based on our talks with labour, business and other stakeholders, we are introducing a provisional wage increment to enhance the federal minimum wage without causing undue inflation,” Tinubu said.
“For the next six months, the average low-grade worker shall receive an additional twenty-five thousand naira per month,” he added.
[Vanguard]
President Bola Ahmed has called on Nigerians to join him in efforts to remake Nigeria into a better place for all the citizens.
In his nationwide address to mark Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Anniversary yesterday morning, he invited all Nigerians to join in this collective endeavour which, he said, can be achieved if they unite behind one national cause.
The president further called for unity, courage, compassion, and commitment to nation-building even as he declared his unwavering dedication to serving the nation faithfully.
In a significant move to alleviate the economic burden on low-level workers, President Bola Tinubu announced a groundbreaking provision.
He said, “For the next six months, low-grade federal government workers in Nigeria will receive an additional N25,000 per month as part of a broader effort to support the nation’s workforce during these tough times.”
He also stressed the need for economic reforms and measures to ensure that the benefits of the nation’s prosperity are shared more equitably among its citizens.
President Tinubu explained the decision to end the fuel subsidy, even as he acknowledged the hardships it had caused. He likened the subsidy regime to building a home on unstable ground and stressed the necessity of reform for Nigeria’s future prosperity.
The president outlined various measures aimed at easing the burden on citizens, including an Infrastructure Support Fund for states, and the deployment of cheaper, safer Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses to lower transport costs.
He said, “At my inauguration, I made important promises about how I would govern this great nation. I said that bold reforms were necessary to place our nation on the path of prosperity and growth. On that occasion, I announced the end of the fuel subsidy.
“I am attuned to the hardships that have come. I have a heart that feels and eyes that see. I wish to explain to you why we must endure this trying moment.
“Those who sought to perpetuate the fuel subsidy and broken foreign exchange policies are people who would build their family mansion in the middle of a swamp.
“I am different. I am not a man to erect our national home on a foundation of mud. To endure, our home must be constructed on safe and pleasant ground.
“Reform may be painful, but it is what greatness and the future require. We now carry the cross of reaching a future Nigeria where the abundance and fruits of the nation are fairly shared among all, not hoarded by a select and greedy few; a Nigeria where hunger, poverty and hardship are pushed into the shadows of an ever fading past.
According to him, while it is no joy seeing the people in difficulties, they must endure in order to have a better future.
“My government is doing all that it can to ease the load. I will now outline the path we are taking to relieve the stress on our families and households.
“We have embarked on several public sector reforms to stabilise the economy, direct fiscal and monetary policy to fight inflation, encourage production, ensure the security of lives and property and lend more support to the poor and the vulnerable.
“Based on our talks with labour, business and other stakeholders, we are introducing a provisional wage increment to enhance the federal minimum wage without causing undue inflation.
“For the next six months, the average low-grade worker shall receive an additional N25,000 per month.
“To ensure better grassroots development, we set up an Infrastructure Support Fund for states to invest in critical areas. States have already received funds to provide relief packages against the impact of rising food and other prices.
He noted that lowering transport costs will be key and that his administration had opened a new chapter in public transportation through the deployment of cheaper, safer Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses across the nation which will operate at a fraction of current fuel prices, positively affecting transport fares.
According to him, the new CNG conversion kits will start coming in very soon as all hands are on deck to fast track the usually lengthy procurement process.
The president paid tributes to Nigeria’s founding fathers and mothers, highlighting their dedication and leadership in establishing a sovereign and independent nation.
He emphasized the unity and diversity of Nigeria, acknowledging the challenges faced in building a nation with such a broad mix of ethnic groups, religions, traditions, and cultures.
He stated unequivocally that Nigeria would stand strong and united, rejecting any notion that the country should never have come into existence.
He also mentioned the ongoing probe of the Central Bank and the commitment to fair tax policies and increased support for small enterprises.
“I pledged a thorough house cleaning of the den of malfeasance the CBN had become. That housecleaning is well underway. A new leadership for the Central Bank has been constituted.
“Also, my special investigator will soon present his findings on past lapses and how to prevent similar reoccurrences. Henceforth, monetary policy shall be for the benefit of all and not the exclusive province of the powerful and wealthy.”
The president mentioned other intervention strategies his government was rolling out to improve economic conditions, including increasing investment in micro, small and medium-sized enterprises to boost employment and urban incomes and extending the social safety net through the expansion of cash transfer programmes to an additional 15 million vulnerable households commencing this month.
He commended the security agencies, the judiciary, the National Assembly, civil society organisations for their roles just as he assured women, the physically challenged and other vulnerable groups of inclusion in government activities.
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The Organised Labour comprising the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) have concluded massive mobilisation of their members and affiliates for a nationwide indefinite strike starting from Tuesday, October 3, 2023.
The development was sequel to the boycott of a meeting scheduled by the federal government on Friday as the last move to avert the impending strike.
Already, the Labour unions have maintained their stand that there was no going back on the planned strike action.
The two Labour centres, which announced the strike action after a joint press conference on Tuesday in Abuja, said the strike was a result of the federal government’s failure to address the suffering and hardship of Nigerians caused by the removal of fuel subsidy and other anti-poor policies of the President Bola Tinubu administration.
They also accused the government of refusing to engage in a meaningful and constructive dialogue with them despite the 21-day ultimatum and the subsequent two-day warning strike of September 5 and 6.
Consequently, in separate memos issued by the different affiliate Unions sighted by LEADERSHIP on Saturday evening, workers across the board were directed to ensure total compliance with the NLC/TUC shutdown directive beginning October 3.
Affiliate Unions like Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union of Nigeria (RATTAWU) in a notification to its state councils resolved to embark on the nationwide indefinite strike.
The RATTAWU memo read: “As a follow-up to the just concluded meeting of the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) which was held on Tuesday 26th September 2023, it was resolved that all affiliates of the Congress should embark on a nationwide indefinite strike action which should be total, with effect from Tuesday 3 October, 2023. In other words, there shall be no operations in our sectors throughout the period of the action.”
Also, the Nigerian Union of Allied Health Professionals (UAMP) issued similar directive to all its members in compliance with NLC/TUC directive.
Other affiliate Unions, who issued similar directive to their members, include; Pharmacists, Physiotherapists, Medical Laboratory Scientists, Imaging Scientists/Radiographers, Medical Social Werkers, Optometrists, Clinical Psychologists, Orthotics/Prosthetics, Speech Therapists, and Medical Physicists, among others.
Also mobilising for the shutdown in the health sector is the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM).
In a memo by NANNM, the Association said, “I am directed to convey the decision of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) National Executive Council (NEC) meeting to commence nationwide indefinite industrial action with effect from Tuesday 3rd October 2023.”
In the education sector, Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU ) has begun mobilisation for the strike in earnest.
According to a memo, the COEASU leadership said, “The Leadership of the Union was in attendance at the emergency NLC NEC meeting of Tuesday 26th September 2023. The meeting, which was attended by NLC affiliates, discussed the failure of government to meet the demands of the Labour Union in the face of current economic reality.
“It is in the light of the foregoing that all affiliates in attendance unanimously agreed to commence an indefinite strike action on the 3 October, 2023, All Chapters are hereby directed by this notice to comply accordingly.”
Also, Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has also concluded mobilisation for the strike.
According to a memo signed by the Senior Assistant Secretary of the Association, Comrade Kingsley Okayi, the Association said, “I am directed to formally forward the Notice of Indefinite Nationwide Strike (see attached circular) organised by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC). The strike action is scheduled to commence on Tuesday 3rd October, 2023
“Consequent upon the above, all Branch Chairpersons are requested to commence full mobilization of our members to actively participate in the strike that is being organised by NLC. You are therefore directed to liaise with your respective State Council of NLC for proper and effective mobilization, coordination and active participation. Also send a regular report of your participation to the National Secretariat.”
Other unions in the sector that have completed plans to join the strike in include; the Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Polytechnics (SSANIP), among others.
Also, the National Union of Electricity Employees (NAUEE), National Union of Banks, Insurance & Financial Institutions Employees, The Amalgamated Union of Public Corporation, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE), and Nigeria Union of Public Service, Reportorial, Secretarial, Data Processors and Allied Workers are among the unions that have concluded plans to join the strike.
Others are the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN), Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Gas Workers (NUPENG), and National Union of Civil Engineering Construction, Furniture and Wood Workers, and many more.
LEADERSHIP recalls that the organised Labour is demanding specially wage awards for public workers and a new minimum wage, tax exemptions and allowances to public sector workers, provision of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses, release of modalities for the N70billion for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and immediate reversal of all anti-poor policies of the federal government.
The two labour congresses have already urged Nigerians o brace up for a long strike and use between this Saturday and Monday to stockpile foodstuff and other necessities.
Several appeals by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Simon Lalong, to the NLC leadership to shelve the planned strike fell on deaf ears as the organised Labour rejected the appeal, saying they will embark on the strike until their demands were fully met.
They also warned that any attempt by the government to use force or intimidation of court orders to stop the strike will be resisted by workers and Nigerians.
The Federal Government is currently engaging the World Bank on a fresh $1.5bn loan, findings by Sunday PUNCH have shown.
Abbreviated as HOPE, the loan is titled ‘Nigeria Human Capital for Opportunities and Empowerment’ based on information obtained from the website of the Washington-based institution.
The objective of the loan is “to strengthen systems for improved delivery of basic education and primary health services in participating states.”
The loan is meant to be implemented in 2024 pending approval by the board of the World Bank Group.
Sunday PUNCH also discovered that there was another loan titled: ‘Nigeria Macro-Fiscal Reforms for Economic Stability and Economic Transformation’.
However, the amount for this other loan was not disclosed as of the time of filing this report.
There were also pending discussions on five other loan projects, according to findings.
These include $300m for solutions for internally displaced persons and host communities’ project, $500m for rural access and agricultural marketing project-scale up, $750m for the Nigeria distributed access through renewable energy scale-up project, $700m for sustainable power and irrigation for Nigeria project, and $500m for NG accelerating resource mobilisation for reforms PforR.
The discussions will determine if the loans will become active or dropped.
So far, Nigeria has secured a total of $1.95bn in loans from the World Bank in the first four months of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The first was the $750m approved on June 9, 2023 to boost Nigeria’s power sector.
The second was $500m to help the country’s drive for women’s empowerment and was approved on June 22, 2023.
The third was a $700m loan to enhance adolescent girls’ learning and empowerment, and was approved on September 21, 2023.
The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the International Development Association, which make up the World Bank, have, over the years, advanced loans to Nigeria.
The IBRD lends to governments of middle-income and creditworthy low-income countries, while the IDA provides concessionary loans – called credits – and grants to governments of the poorest countries.
The World Bank is Nigeria’s biggest multilateral creditor, with the country owing about $14.51bn as of June 30, 2023.
Further breakdown showed that Nigeria has $14.51bn IDA debt and $485.75m IBRD debt by the second quarter of the year.
The Debt Management Office recently said Nigeria’s total public debt hit N87.38tn at the end of the second quarter.
The figure represents an increase of 75.29 per cent or N37.53tn compared to N49.85tn recorded at the end of March 2023.
Further breakdown shows that Nigeria has a total domestic debt of N54.13tn and total external debt of N33.25tn.
While the domestic debt makes up 61.95 per cent of the total debt, the external makes up 38.05 per cent.
There has been a significant increase in both domestic and external debts within three months.
The domestic debt rose by 79.18 per cent from N30.21tn, while the external debt rose by 69.28 per cent from N19.64tn in the first quarter of 2023.
In its 2022 Debt Sustainability Analysis Report, the DMO warned that the Federal Government’s projected revenue of N10tn for 2023 could not support fresh borrowings.
According to the office, the projected government’s debt service-to-revenue ratio of 73.5 per cent for this year is high and a threat to debt sustainability.
It noted that the government’s current revenue profile could not support higher levels of borrowing.
In a report titled, ‘Report of the Annual National Market Access Country Debt Sustainability Analysis,’ the debt office said, “The projected FGN debt service-to-revenue ratio at 73.5 per cent for 2023 is high and a threat to debt sustainability.
“It means that the revenue profile cannot support higher levels of borrowing. Attaining a sustainable FGN debt service-to-revenue ratio would require an increase of FGN revenue from N10.49tn projected in the 2023 budget to about N15.5tn.”
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The DMO stated that the government must pay attention to revenue generation by implementing far-reaching revenue mobilisation initiatives and reforms, including the Strategic Revenue Growth Initiatives and all the pillars with a view to raising the country’s tax revenue to Gross Domestic Product ratio from about seven per cent to those of its peers.
The Federal Government will be unable to borrow a lot as it nears its self-imposed debt limit of 40 per cent, according to the DMO.
To reduce borrowing and budget deficit, the DMO stated that the government should encourage the private sector to fund some of the capital projects that were being financed from borrowing through public-private partnership schemes.
It added that the Federal Government could reduce borrowing through the privatisation and/or sale of its assets.
‘Borrowing plan stays’
Despite the rising debt, the Federal Government has insisted that it will stick to its borrowing plan.
Over the years, Nigeria’s low revenue generation has pushed the government to borrow more borrowing.
However, President Tinubu recently expressed his administration’s commitment to breaking the cycle of overreliance on borrowing for public spending and the resultant burden of debt servicing it places on the management of limited government revenues.
Tinubu recently said the country could not continue to service its debt with 90 per cent of its revenue.
He noted that the country was headed for destruction if that continued.
The President said, “Can we continue to service external debts with 90 per cent of our revenue? It is a path to destruction. It is not sustainable. We must make the very difficult changes that are necessary for our country to get (wake) up from slumber and be respected among the great nations of the world.
“To build a great nation, we must make bold decisions; even though it may be painful at the moment, it is not about you and me, it is about generations yet unborn.”
This indicates that the country may want to explore debt service suspension or relief or restructuring of the debt.
However, the Director-General, DMO, Ms Patience Oniha, told Sunday PUNCH that the government had no plans to seek debt service suspension or restructure the debt.
She said, “With the DSSI, the multilaterals were not giving any relief, only the bilaterals. For Nigeria, we don’t have many bilateral loans. They are very small and they are all concessionary.”
She further explained that there were some costs attached to the debt suspension programme, which made the country opt out of it in the past.
Oniha stressed that the current administration was making significant efforts to boost revenue, which meant that the high debt service to revenue ratio was expected to decline.
“You can see a lot happening in revenue. If revenue is increased, your debt service to revenue ratio will improve. So, do you need to restructure?” she queried.
Although the Federal Government said it would stop taking on new borrowings, she clarified that it planned to stick to the borrowing target approved in the 2023 budget.
The immediate past President, Muhammadu Buhari, signed a N21.83tn budget for the current year, which had a deficit of N11.34tn.
The deficit was projected to be financed from N8.8tn new borrowings, N1.77tn drawdowns on loans secured for specific development projects and N206.18bn privatisation proceeds.
The Federal Government said although it was not in a position to keep borrowing, it would still maintain its borrowing plan.
Recently, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Wale Edun, while unveiling an eight-point agenda for the economy, said, “The government is not in a position to borrow if you consider 90 per cent debt service to revenue and behind that, a rising debt to GDP ratio. If you look at the last budget, you will see that there is a borrowing requirement built into it and appropriated by the National Assembly. And that is ongoing.”
At the 2023 Annual Business Summit of Capital Market Solicitors Association held in Lagos, the DMO noted that Nigeria had budgetary approval for N1.7tn external debt borrowing.
“Talking about external borrowing, let me clarify that this year’s budget has room for a new external borrowing of about N1.7tn. When you convert that at official rates, it gives you about $2bn,” the DMO DG stated.
She also said that Nigeria’s debt had grown since the country exited the Paris Club, adding that the key driver of the debt was the budgetary deficit.
Experts caution govt
A political economist, Prof Pat Utomi, cautioned against fresh borrowings, saying, “It is not advisable to seek new loans.”
He stressed that the country needed a thorough review of the current loans and how they had been utilised to ensure economic growth.
“The government has not shown enough discipline in the way it has deployed earlier borrowed money,” Utomi added.
He called for a 50 per cent cut in the cost of governance and transparency in the utilisation of borrowed funds to stir production and boost foreign exchange in the country.
A development economist, Aliyu Ilias, told Sunday PUNCH that with the currency devaluation, the external debt burden would likely double.
“If Nigeria owes a particular amount in dollars, now that we have naira devaluation, the total amount in naira is going to double,” Ilias stated.
He called for a moratorium or debt buyback to alleviate the heavy burden of debt servicing for many African countries, including Nigeria.
“On the issue of debt, I would have wanted a situation whereby we can have a moratorium on our debt. Or there can be an opportunity for a debt buyback,” he added.
He also advised the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund to refrain from lending money to Nigeria until 2025.
“Tell the World Bank and the IMF to hold on and not give Nigeria money for now. Let us internally grow our revenue. It is because of the availability of money to borrow that we are into more debt,” he said.
The Resident Representative for the IMF in Nigeria, Ari Aisen, said the country’s economy could become stable without new IMF financing, urging the government to strengthen oil production and the tax base.
He said, “The Nigerian economy can aspire to stabilise without the IMF. It is certainly a sovereign decision of every member country to approach us in case of need. Let us not forget that oil prices are very supportive. The balance of payment is in a reasonable position. There are current account surpluses, meaning that the trade position is good. So, it is really a question of bringing more of this surplus into the economy. Making sure oil production benefits the economy is critical.
“Oil revenue and exports should benefit through an increased production of oil. That is part of why we believe that the government should actually re-double efforts to be able to increase the intake from the oil sector. In parallel, revenue should also increase in the non-oil sector through better compliance. The compliance gap is very large in Nigeria. Very few are paying their dues. Those who pay may feel that they are paying the entire burden, so it is important to broaden the tax base and include more taxpayers. In parallel, governance and good use of funds need to accompany those increased tax payments so that everyone feels more comfortable with the new reality.
“With a revenue-to-GDP ratio of eight per cent, it is very difficult to make a meaningful contribution to improve social indicators in Nigeria. There is an existential issue for the country, and I think the new administration is spot on in terms of conversations with the private sector on how everyone can start collaborating to boost revenue and provide public goods and services.”
The President of Ghana, Nana Akufo-Addo has said democracy in West Africa is in danger as evident in the recent military takeovers in the sub-region, and urged all to work harder to entrench the principles of democratic accountability in the citizens.
Akufo-Addo stated this at a high-level parliamentary seminar on the ‘Role of the ECOWAS Parliament Relating the Challenges of Unconstitutional Regime Change and Presidential Term Limits in West Africa”, organised by the ECOWAS Parliament in Winneba, Ghana.
The Ghanian President who declared the seminar open, said the West African region is confronted with a difficult economic, political, social insecurity situation.
He said, despite the considerable progress made by ECOWAS in the areas of democracy, good governance and the rule of law since the 1990s, the region is currently witnessing a significant decline in its democratic relations.
Akufo-Addo averred that the region’s democracy is currently facing three serious threats including attempted confiscation by elites who manipulate constitutional rules and the subjugate institutions of the republic with the sole aim of remaining in power.
He said other threats are the emerging remilitarisation of governance with the return once again of the military unto the political scene, and the wanton desire to destroy democracy by terrorist groups and armed criminal gangs to start lawlessness in the absent of freedom in the region.
Akufo-Addo said: “This observation is bitter and implacable, today four member ECOWAS states are led by military government as a result of coup d’etat, this has unfortunately created a stare palpable anxiety and tension in every corner of the region, raising the spectra of
regional instability which we thought had beef banished for ever. Equally apart, is the culture of violence and disputes that characterise the period of electing some of our leaders.
“I want to reaffirm that in the contemporary world, the only legitimacy for any leader is through a mandate that is freely give by the people in a fair, peaceful and transparent election. This is the most tangible and objective way to know and recognize the commonwealth which is the wealth of the people.
“The election of Mohammed Bazum in Niger inboard this recognition of the commonwealth and that is why the coup in Niger is particularly tragic for the consolidation of democracy in our region.”
He insisted that democracy is not a western concept as some believe, but rather a universal concept of general applicability.
According to the Ghanian President, the history of the world, including that of Africa showed that the process of electing and installing leaders in democratic circumstances provides the best form of government.
He urged parliamentarians to speak against the extension of presidential tenures by some leaders to strengthen their grip and power, saying such actions result into discontent among the populace and create fertile grounds for military interventions.
In his remarks, Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Hon. Sidie Mohammed Tunis, said the high-level Seminar was put togetehr as part of the performance of parliaments obligations under the treaty, to determine what causes military takeovers, democratic regression, and political instability in the sub-region.
Tunis, reiterated that their responsibility as lawmakers was not only to create laws and policies but to also rigorously monitor implementation of those instruments.
He said to ensure that ECOWAS performs maximally to the expectation of the people, its parliament must facilitate robust and continuous discourse on the broad issues, aimed at formulating effective and sustainable solutions to challenges.
“During this Seminar, we also intend to look at the causes of various attempts by democratically elected leaders in the sub-region to extend their term limits despite crystal-clear constitutional provisions outlining these terms, as well as the potential role the ECOWAS Parliament can play in preventing such anti-democratic actions.
“We note that the role of the Parliament in upholding regional stability, laying the groundwork for democracy, economic growth, and the rule of law, as well as acting as the voice of hope for all our peoples, is invaluable and should never be diminished. Parliamentarians need to step up to the plate and demonstrate the extraordinary leadership that is expected of us.
“The adage “to whom much is given, much is expected” applies here. We must embrace democracy as essential to progress and muster the confidence to speak out against leaders who are solidifying their hold on power against the wishes of the people because we have a moral obligation to do so.
“We must denounce those who start constitutional and institutional coups with the same zeal and tones as we denounce military coups. We must publicly denounce corruption, poor leadership, anti-democratic forces while resisting those who seek to undermine our democracy, he stated.
Tunis said ECOWAS must also be sensitive to the situation of young people who face poverty, barriers to education, many forms of discrimination as well as limited job prospects and opportunities, leaving them susceptible to engaging in anti-democratic initiatives.
He said the ECOWAS Parliament is collaborating with Non-Governmental organisations (NGOs) to establish the ECOWAS Youth Parliament to facilitate the active participation of young people across the region in achieving the community vision.
Earlier in his welcome address the Head of Ghana Delegation at the ECOWAS Parliament, Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, said the recent activities of unrest in the subregion should in no way give justification for military coups to overthrow democratically elected government.
“We must insist, fervently, that the answer to these acts of terror lies within our democratic institutions, standing as bastions of hope and fortitude amidst the turmoil.
“We stand at a juncture where the road we choose will dictate the future of our great region. The recent resurgence of military coups threatens to drag us back to an era we have fought tirelessly to transcend.
“We must firmly CONDEMN the coups in Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea, Chad, and Gabon, along with the hostilities in Sudan. These actions are a betrayal of the democratic
principles we hold dear, and we demand a swift return to constitutional rule,” Afenyo-Markin added.
[Leadership]
Tinubu Vows Justice In Dealing With IPOB, Boko Haram, Farmer-Herder Crises In South East, North East, Others
AdminPresident Bola Tinubu, at the passing-out parade of Nigerian Defence Academy cadets in Kaduna on Saturday, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to eliminating poverty, terrorism, and criminality in the country.
Tinubu, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, outlined a comprehensive approach to tackling the challenges with a promise to mete out equal treatment to all regions of the country.
He stated, “Whether in tackling secessionist elements, counter-insurgency efforts, pursuing normalcy, or resolving farmer-herder conflicts, every group will be treated equally and given a sense of belonging in our government.”
In his address titled “The Heroes of Nigeria’s Path to Prosperity and Security,” President Tinubu acknowledged the pressing need to address the economic and security issues plaguing the nation.
The president stressed that there was a new era in Nigeria’s national defence and security strategy, with a strong commitment to confront the threats within the West African sub-region.
As Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), he expressed dedication to enhancing regional conflict management and development mechanisms.
On the economic front, Tinubu discussed measures to alleviate the hardships caused by the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of exchange rates.
The measures include reducing taxes on strategic manufacturing industries, distributing grains to vulnerable demographics, providing agricultural inputs, and extending soft loans to small and medium-scale industries.
The President commended the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) for its enduring commitment to nurturing exceptional military officers and academic specialists.
The graduating officers were cadets of the 70 Regular Course, Direct Short Service Course 27 (Army) and Direct Short Service Course 31 (Air Force) of the NDA.
Tinubu recognized the importance of investing in scientific research and technological innovations to align with local content policies, asserting that “this esteemed institution was founded to lead the way.”
In attendance at the passing out parade were Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, Senate Chief Whip Ali Ndume, and several governors and military chiefs, graced the occasion. The event featured parades, prize presentations to the best graduating cadets, conferment of commission, and the administering of the oath of allegiance.