I just came across an interesting Press Statement signed by one Luka Binniyat, the Middle Belt Forum's Kaduna State Chapter Chairman, dated Sunday, October 6, 2024, in which he tried to raise legitimate questions around the composition of the Board nominees of the newly established North West Development Commission (NWDC).

Without prejudice to the whole essence of the inclusivity message that the said intervention sought to push through, one would still like to insist that there are palpable signs of gross misunderstanding and misrepresentation bordering on outright confusion around the definition of the term or concept of the Middle Belt that its Forum's Kaduna State Chapter Chairman was attempting to project out there via his Press Statement.

Firstly, even from the sound of its name alone, the Middle Belt concept looks to be more of a geographical expression than anything else, and that has been the case since its formal introduction into the public consciousness several decades ago.

Indeed, it can rightly be argued that it all started as an agglomeration of the various peoples or communities spread across the middle or centre of the geographical expression we have all come to know and recognise as Nigeria today. And that has remained so for quite a while now since the Middle Belt concept’s official launch, but I stand to be corrected.

As time went by, however, successive leaders and promoters of the Middle Belt Forum and its ideals actively sought to expand its reach by way of the deliberate extension of its outreach messaging to appeal to other people of the same or similar faith and shared experiences. This is principally on account of their minority status in several of the core Northern States, with a view to fighting for a common cause. And that is all fine and good, to be honest!

But what they should probably have done from that point onwards was to promptly effect an appropriate name change to reflect its renewed focus and expanded status beyond its original geographical circumscription. This is especially so because many of its targeted would-be new entrants are undoubtedly located very far away from the centre or middle of any perceived belt, geographically speaking.

Again, you cannot possibly go on to define the Middle Belt "as all parts of Nigeria that were not ruled or conquered by the Sokoto Caliphate (emphasis mine) and the Kanem Borno Empire in pre-colonial Nigeria", in one breath, and then go right ahead to immediately attempt to contradict yourself by including such historic towns and villages of the Gwandu Emirate as Kalgo, Koko/Besse, Suru and the like, in your patented pipedream of an expanded or greater Middle Belt, in another breath.

That does not make any logical sense at all, unless you do not have the slightest idea of what you really are talking about. To do so would amount to the closest example of approbation and reprobation one could possibly think of, albeit in the reverse sense!

Indeed, if one can ever get away with 'annexing' any other town against its express wishes based on your own strictly defined criteria of not having been ruled or conquered by the Caliphate, that town would certainly not be Kalgo, would it?

Kalgo, by the way, is reputed to be a veritable staging point of sorts for several Gwandu Princes who served as its District Head, better known by its formally recognised title of Sarkin Gobir of Kalgo, en route their onward journey towards their manifest destiny of ascending the Gwandu Emirship stool of their forebears; Gwandu, being the pivotal Western flank of the expansive Sokoto Caliphate, just in case Mr. Binniyat may not have been aware of that fact.

Again, as unlikely as it may ordinarily seem to the untrained eye on account of the legendary modesty of the vast majority of the Emirs in its rich and storied history, the Gwandu Emirship stool has always been, and will forever remain, the second most revered throne in the hierarchy of the Caliphate structure after that of His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto; again, just in case Mr. Binniyat may not have realised that just yet.

In addition, and talking specifically about the Southern Kebbi concept, I struggle to see how a place like far away Kalgo; a town that is both critical and historically relevant to the Gwandu Emirship stool and also proximal to Birnin Kebbi, its longstanding capital located  just a stone's throw away, can ever be considered to be an integral part and parcel of any conceivable expanded Southern Kebbi or Kebbi South configuration of his dream by any stretch of the imagination.

At any rate, I am not exactly aware of the existence of any extended Belt of sufficient enough dimension, at the centre or in the Middle of which Kalgo may logically be deemed to have been factored into, and both legally and legitimately embraced.

These are just a few observations around the deliberate provocative narrative spins driven by the extremely wild and way off the mark conjectures informing that strange inclusion of the mentioned areas in the expansive buckle of the utopian Middle Belt concept that Mr. Luka Binniyat may wish to respond to.

In closing, I would still like to humbly restate that nothing I have said or written here is designed to detract from the essence of the primary message he is trying to convey around the recent nominations for the newly established NWDC Board.

Abdullahi Usman 

(Wednesday, October 9, 2024)

It seems OpenAI’s Realtime Voice API, announced a week ago, is taking the world by storm. Developers are going berserk on X, sharing their creations using the realtime voice API. 

The new offering from the Sam Altman-led AI powerhouse allows apps to have natural, real-time conversations with their users. Ever since its announcement, each new day has brought new possibilities. Watching these demos would make AI assistants or other popular chatbots seem puny.

The Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, has said that Africa must be fully involved in the regulation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to ensure that the technology is not tilted towards the interests of the advanced nations.

Inuwa stated this on Thursday while presenting a keynote for Day 3 of the Nigeria Finech Week 2024.

According to him, Africa’s participation in AI regulation and governance is crucial to ensure that AI serves the interests of all humanities, not just the privileged few.

The NITDA DG, who was represented at the event by the Director of Standard, Regulation and Framework at the Agency, Mr Emmanuel Edet, noted that AI is not just another technology but a paradigm shift that promises to reshape every aspect of people’s lives, from healthcare education to agriculture and even governance.

Proactive measures 

Inuwa asserted that despite the transformation power of AI, it also comes with unique challenges that require careful consideration and proactive measures.

“As we witness the rapid deployment of AI technologies, primarily in the Global North, it is crucial that we, the nations of Africa and the Global South, assert our place in this evolving landscape.  

“Our participation is not just beneficial. It is essential to ensure that AI serves the interest of all humanities, not just the privileged few,” he said. 

“Issues of data, privacy, algorithm algorithmic bias, job displacement and geopolitical competition have underscored the need for a clear, fair and inclusive regulatory regime at the heart of this regulatory discussion must be the voices of the Global South, particularly Africa,” the DG added. 

• Inuwa called attention to the regulatory efforts underway in regions like the United States, China, and the European Union, noting that these frameworks often reflect specific local contexts and priorities.

• However, he emphasized that the voices of the Global South—particularly Africa—must be central in shaping global AI regulations.

• He called for a regulatory framework that acknowledges diverse cultural, economic, and social contexts, stressing that challenges and opportunities in cities like Lagos, Nairobi, and Johannesburg differ significantly from those in Silicon Valley or Schengen.

Positioning Africa in the AI space 

To position Africa as an active player in global AI regulation, Inuwa highlighted the need for substantial investment in building local capacity, including the development of AI talent, support for research and development, and fostering homegrown innovations.

• He urged for the creation of indigenous AI solutions tailored to Africa’s unique challenges in areas like agriculture, healthcare, and education, which would also enable the continent to contribute meaningfully to global AI standards.

• However, he acknowledged the hurdles faced by many African nations, such as limited digital infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, and financial resources needed to fully exploit AI’s potential.

• He pointed out that these challenges present an opportunity for collaboration, calling for strategic alliances among nations in the Global South to amplify their collective voice in global AI governance.

What you should know 

The NITDA DG’s position on equal participation in AI regulation resonates with the recent report released by the United Nations (UN), which expressed concern that only seven countries are currently involved in the governance of AI and making decisions that affect other countries.

The UN Secretary-General’s High-level Advisory Body on Artificial Intelligence in its final report titled “Governing AI for Humanity” stated that the seven countries involved in AI governance for the rest of the world include Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

• The body noted that equity demands that more voices play meaningful roles in decisions about how to govern technology that affects them.
• It emphasized that the concentration of decision-making in the AI technology sector cannot be justified, adding that historically many communities have been entirely excluded from AI governance conversations that impact them.

[Nairametrics]

A bail application by the detained Binance executive, Tigran Gambaryan, was rejected on Friday by the Federal High Court in Abuja.

The bail was rejected by Justice Emeka Nwite, who presided over the case.

On September 4, 2024, the Federal High Court in Abuja heard arguments regarding Gambaryan’s new bail application between his lawyer, Mark Mordi, SAN, and counsel for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ekele Iheanacho.

It would be recalled that Mordi applied for the court to admit his client to bail on liberal terms, or alternatively, to admit him to bail for six weeks on the basis of ill health.

He submitted that his client is managing serious health challenges that cannot be adequately managed in Nigeria.

The lawyer presented exhibits before the court including medical reports, showing his client needs medical care, and strongly recommended surgery.

Gambaryan’s family also submitted that he “can no longer walk” due to a health condition involving a disk issue.

However, the EFCC contested these claims.

The anti-graft agency presented a medical report (as an exhibit before the court) from the State House Annex Clinic in Asokoro, Abuja, in which it claimed that the detained Binance executive, Tigran Gambaryan, refused prescribed medications and food when attended to by a neurosurgeon in July 2024.

Delivering judgement on the bail application on Friday, Justice Nwite held that it is not in dispute that Gambaryan’s first bail application, which concerns health, has been appealed.

Nwite stated that the current bail application amounts to an abuse of court process because Gambaryan has a pending appeal against the refusal of the first bail.

He added that there are no new facts regarding medical care in the fresh bail application, as the EFCC has shown that Nigerian authorities and hospitals are capable of treating Gambaryan.

He said that since an appeal has been filed, a lawyer is restrained from re-litigating, especially having not withdrawn that appeal.

“On this leg alone, this bail application is bound to fail,” he said.

Furthermore, Nwite said that based on medical records at his disposal, renowned Nigerian medical experts are already managing Gambaryan’s health.

However, the court ordered the Nigerian Correctional Service to refer Gambaryan to any standard hospital in Abuja under security supervision.

Gambaryan has been in detention since February over allegations of money laundering.

[NaijaNews]

The political landscape of Nigeria is constantly evolving, and as we have seen in recent years, smaller political parties are starting to gain traction in regions once considered strongholds of the two dominant parties: the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). One such party is the Action Peoples Party (APP), which, following its recent popularity and successes in Rivers State, has captured the interest of many political observers. The question on everyone’s mind is whether the APP could replicate the success of the Labour Party (LP), which has emerged as a formidable force in the Nigerian political arena, particularly after its significant wins in the 2023 general elections.

Rivers State, a key political hub in the Niger Delta, has long been dominated by the PDP, with occasional competition from the APC. However, recent developments indicate that the political landscape is no longer business as usual. The PDP’s stronghold is being challenged not only by the APC but also by emerging parties like the APP. In the last election cycle, the APP made significant inroads in Rivers, winning several local seats and gaining visibility.

This rise in APP’s influence in Rivers has sparked conversations about the party’s potential to grow beyond its current standing. Could the APP be the next Labour Party in terms of sudden national recognition, broad acceptance, and electoral victories?

The APP’s growing acceptance in Rivers can be attributed to several factors. First, the leadership of the APP in Rivers State has managed to present itself as a viable alternative to the dominant PDP and the opposition APC. The APP has capitalized on the general discontent among the populace over economic hardships, poor governance, and a perceived disconnect between the ruling elite and the masses. Just as the Labour Party managed to connect with the youth, the middle class, and the underrepresented in the 2023 elections, the APP is beginning to fill a similar space in Rivers.

As gathered from a professional colleague whose beat as a Journalist in the Niger Delta Region includes Rivers, the party’s message of inclusivity, transparency, and grassroots development has resonated with many voters who feel abandoned by the traditional parties. Many Rivers residents are searching for fresh ideas, leadership with integrity, and a party that truly represents their interests. APP’s increasing popularity is also driven by the fact that it has been able to attract credible candidates, both young and experienced, who share the party’s values and vision for Rivers State.

The Labour Party’s meteoric rise during the 2023 elections offers several lessons for the APP. First and foremost, the Labour Party understood that to break the dominance of the established parties, it had to appeal to the masses’ sentiments while positioning itself as a voice for the voiceless. With Peter Obi’s candidacy for the presidency, the LP successfully painted itself as the party of hope, change, and accountability. This narrative appealed to millions of disillusioned voters across the country, particularly in urban areas and among the youth.

The APP in Rivers State has a similar opportunity. By positioning itself as a party that genuinely listens to the people and prioritizes their needs, it can continue to chip away at the PDP and APC’s hold on the electorate. The APP can also draw inspiration from the Labour Party’s focus on grassroots mobilization. Labour’s success was not solely due to its presidential candidate; the party was able to build a network of supporters across the country through town hall meetings, social media campaigns, and personal engagements with voters.

In Rivers, the APP could adopt a similar strategy, deepening its connection with voters at the grassroots level, holding leaders accountable, and maintaining consistent communication with its base. If it can successfully create a narrative that mirrors the Labour Party’s underdog story, the APP has the potential to blossom into a major political force not just in Rivers but across the Niger Delta and beyond.

However, while the APP’s recent gains in Rivers are promising, the road ahead is fraught with challenges. The political terrain in Rivers State is complex and competitive. The PDP, with its deep pockets and entrenched political machinery, will not easily cede control. Similarly, the APC, despite internal fractures, remains a formidable opponent with strong backing from national figures.

To succeed, the APP must avoid the pitfalls that have derailed other smaller parties in Nigeria. One of the key challenges is maintaining party cohesion. Many smaller parties have struggled to remain united as they grow, with internal disagreements often leading to factionalism and weakening their political effectiveness. The APP will need to ensure that it remains disciplined, unified, and committed to its core values.

Another challenge is maintaining relevance beyond local elections. While the APP has gained momentum in Rivers, it must work to translate that local success into broader regional and national relevance. This means identifying strong candidates for gubernatorial, senatorial, and national assembly positions in the next election cycles. If the APP can field competitive candidates in these races, it can solidify its place as a serious political contender.

One key to the APP’s continued success will be its ability to form strategic partnerships and coalitions with other like-minded parties and political actors. The Labour Party’s rise was bolstered by the support of various civil society groups, labor unions, and other smaller parties that aligned with its vision. In a similar vein, the APP could benefit from forming alliances with other progressive parties, community groups, and labor organizations that share its goals for grassroots development and transparent governance.

By working together with other political stakeholders, the APP can build a broader coalition of supporters that can challenge the entrenched political elites in Rivers. This strategy could also extend beyond the state, as the party could seek to partner with national movements that are calling for political reform and greater accountability in Nigeria’s governance.

Whether the APP can fully blossom like the Labour Party will depend on its ability to maintain its momentum, avoid internal divisions, and stay true to its grassroots message. The political conditions in Rivers State are ripe for a change, with many voters disillusioned by the PDP and the APC. The APP has the potential to capitalize on this discontent, but it must remain focused and strategic in its approach.

The party must also remember that its journey to greater relevance will be a marathon, not a sprint. Just as the Labour Party’s rise was built on years of groundwork, the APP must continue to build its base and engage with voters year-round, not just during election season. If it can do so, it may very well become the next major political force in Rivers State, and potentially beyond.

In fact, the Action Peoples Party’s recent successes in Rivers State have raised important questions about its potential to become a dominant political force, much like the Labour Party in 2023. While there are no guarantees in politics, the APP’s growing popularity, strong grassroots appeal, and ability to present a viable alternative to the PDP and APC suggest that it is on the right track. However, the road to political relevance is long and challenging, and the APP will need to remain focused, united, and committed to its ideals if it hopes to fully blossom in the political garden of Rivers and Nigeria at large.

In a world teeming with social influencers, celebrities, and internet personalities, it is easy for one voice to get lost in the noise. Yet, every so often, someone comes along who is not just another face on the screen, but a force of nature, a beacon of truth, and a rallying point for millions seeking justice and fairness. Very Dark Man (VDM) is one such individual. To say he is God-sent would not be an exaggeration, and it would not be overstating it to claim that someone like him only comes once in a lifetime.

VDM, as he is often fondly referred to, has captivated audiences with his fearless stance against injustice, his unapologetic exposure of societal ills, and his tireless commitment to holding those in power accountable. In a world where many are quick to exploit their platforms for personal gain, VDM has chosen to use his influence for something far more meaningful: to be a voice for the voiceless and to speak out against societal injustices that others are too scared or indifferent to address.

One of the reasons Very Dark Man resonates so deeply with his audience is his ability to connect with everyday people. He doesn’t just talk about injustice from a distance; he brings it close, makes it personal, and invites others to see the world through the lens of those who are suffering. His unique approach, blending raw emotion with well-researched facts, has struck a chord with those who have long felt ignored by the mainstream media and societal leaders.

When he speaks, it is with the conviction of someone who has lived through the struggles of those he defends. He does not sugarcoat his messages or tiptoe around delicate issues. Instead, he confronts them head-on, showing the raw truth and forcing society to look at its own reflection. This unfiltered, direct approach is rare in today’s world, where diplomacy often translates into silence, and where fear of backlash leads many influencers to avoid controversial topics.

Very Dark Man’s advocacy for justice goes beyond merely shedding light on issues. He actively seeks to hold those responsible accountable, whether they are individuals, corporations, or governmental institutions. His investigative skills are second to none, as he meticulously gathers evidence to support his claims before presenting them to his audience. This approach has earned him a reputation for being credible, authentic, and deeply committed to the truth.

His most impactful work has been in exposing fraud and corruption within institutions that have for years gone unchecked. Whether it is highlighting police brutality, tackling issues of social inequality, or calling out organizations that exploit vulnerable individuals, VDM has consistently shown a deep-rooted desire to see justice served. In a country where many shy away from taking on the establishment for fear of reprisal, VDM stands tall, unyielding, and unwavering.

His fight for justice has come at great personal cost. Like many who dare to challenge the status quo, Very Dark Man has faced threats, smear campaigns, and attempts to silence his voice. Yet, he remains undeterred. His bravery in the face of such adversity only serves to inspire others to speak out, proving that even in the darkest moments, there is hope for change if we are willing to fight for it.

VDM’s influence extends far beyond his immediate audience. His work has sparked a new wave of activism among young people, many of whom have been inspired by his courage and dedication to making a difference. For a generation that has often felt disconnected from traditional forms of advocacy and political engagement, VDM provides a fresh, relatable perspective on how to effect change in the modern world.

His methods, which include utilizing social media to raise awareness, have resonated particularly well with younger audiences. He has mastered the art of making complex social issues accessible and engaging, all while maintaining a sense of urgency and importance around the topics he discusses. This ability to connect with a younger generation is a critical part of his appeal and speaks to why someone like Very Dark Man comes around only once in a lifetime.

He is not just an influencer; he is a movement. People from all walks of life, whether they are activists, students, or everyday citizens, are rallying behind his cause, inspired by his passion and his unrelenting pursuit of truth. In a world where apathy often reigns supreme, VDM has reminded us all that we have a role to play in shaping the future, and that no voice is too small to make a difference.

For many, it feels as though Very Dark Man is nothing short of God-sent. His timing is impeccable; he arrived on the scene when the world needed him most. In an era marked by disillusionment, mistrust in authority, and a growing sense of hopelessness among the masses, VDM provides a much-needed sense of direction and purpose. His work is not just about exposing problems, it is about offering solutions and galvanizing people into action.

It is not often that we come across individuals who are willing to put their personal safety and comfort on the line for the sake of others. Yet, Very Dark Man has shown time and time again that he is willing to sacrifice everything to ensure that justice is served. His selflessness is a rare trait in a world that often prioritizes personal gain over the common good. It is this quality, perhaps more than anything else that makes him an once-in-a-lifetime figure.

As we continue to watch Very Dark Man’s journey unfold, it is important to recognize the significance of his contributions and the impact he has had on our society. In a world where so many have chosen to remain silent in the face of injustice, he has used his platform to speak loudly and boldly. He has reminded us of the power of one voice and the change that can come when that voice is used to uplift others.

We must not take for granted the fact that individuals like VDM are rare. They come along only once in a generation, if at all, and when they do, they have the potential to change the course of history. It is up to us to support his work, to amplify his message, and to ensure that his efforts are not in vain.

In fact, Very Dark Man is more than just a social media figure or influencer, he is a symbol of hope, a warrior for justice, and a once-in-a-lifetime advocate for truth. His legacy is already being written in the hearts of those he has inspired, and it is one that will undoubtedly endure for years to come.

The Nigerian populace has, in recent months, been faced with an unprecedented economic downturn that has stretched their resilience to its limits. Many citizens are struggling to make ends meet, as inflation skyrockets, unemployment rises, and the cost of living reaches unbearable levels. Amid this economic storm, a statement by Nigeria’s First Lady, Remi Tinubu, stirred the public. Defending her husband, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, she claimed that he was not responsible for the economic hardship currently plaguing the nation. Her comment, while undoubtedly aimed at deflecting criticism, has been met with mixed reactions, mostly frustration and disbelief.

As Nigerians grapple with daily economic woes, the call is clear: they seek actionable, people-friendly solutions, not excuses or blame-shifting. Against the foregoing backdrop, permit this writer to, through this article, examine Nigeria’s leadership under Tinubu’s administration, scrutinize the claim that the president is not responsible for the economic hardship, and call for solutions that focus on the needs of the people, rather than defensive rhetoric.

From the onset of Bola Tinubu’s presidency in May 2023, Nigeria’s economic situation has deteriorated significantly. The removal of the fuel subsidy, which Tinubu announced within his first few weeks in office, set off a domino effect that worsened the already precarious financial situation of millions of Nigerians. While the fuel subsidy removal was hailed by some economists as a necessary policy shift to prevent long-term fiscal collapse, its immediate consequences were brutal. Fuel prices tripled overnight, leading to increased transportation costs and the inflation of food prices and essential goods. The government provided promises of palliatives to cushion the effects, but the implementation of these promises has been slow, and their impact remains largely unseen by the general populace.

Additionally, the floating of the naira led to further devaluation of the currency, exacerbating the cost of imports and increasing inflationary pressure. For many Nigerians, this meant their purchasing power diminished at an alarming rate, leaving them unable to afford basic necessities. Businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), have been hit hard by the twin forces of inflation and high energy costs. With dwindling profits and rising operational expenses, many are forced to shut down or scale back operations, leading to increased unemployment.

It is within this context that Remi Tinubu’s defense of her husband must be viewed. While it is true that the Tinubu administration inherited many of Nigeria’s economic challenges, the public perception is that his policies have worsened an already bad situation. Nigerians are not looking for excuses, but for leadership that can pull the nation out of its current crisis.

During an event at the Palace of Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, on Thursday, the First Lady emphasized that the Tinubu administration is still in its early stages and should be given time to implement its policies. She argued that President Tinubu was not responsible for the current economic hardship, implicitly suggesting that the blame lay elsewhere, perhaps with previous administrations or global economic factors. While it is undeniable that Nigeria’s economic problems are deep-rooted, with decades of mismanagement, corruption, and policy failures playing a significant role, the timing and tone of her defense struck a nerve with many Nigerians.

The statement appeared to downplay the struggles of ordinary citizens, many of whom are finding it increasingly difficult to survive. In a country where millions are living below the poverty line, a defense of the president without tangible solutions to alleviate their suffering seems out of touch with the harsh realities on the ground. Instead of deflecting responsibility, Nigerians expect their leaders to confront the challenges head-on, demonstrate empathy, and propose meaningful, sustainable solutions that address the root causes of their plight.

Moreover, leadership entails accepting responsibility for the decisions made under one’s administration. The removal of the fuel subsidy, the devaluation of the naira, and the failure to promptly implement effective palliative measures all fall under the Tinubu administration’s purview. Deflecting blame, as the First Lady’s statement seemingly does, only fuels public frustration and erodes trust in the government.

At this critical juncture, Nigerians are not merely looking for explanations, they are looking for hope. Hope that comes from well-thought-out policies, hope that stems from a government that listens to the people’s cries, and hope that comes from leaders who show empathy and take action. The Tinubu administration must prioritize the development of people-centered solutions that focus on alleviating the burden on the masses.

One immediate step that can be taken is the implementation of social safety nets that are transparent and accessible. The government’s promise of palliatives following the removal of the fuel subsidy has been mired in delays and poor execution. Many Nigerians have yet to feel the effects of these promised relief measures. The administration must expedite the distribution of palliatives, ensuring that they reach the intended recipients, particularly those in rural areas and the most vulnerable segments of society. This would provide much-needed relief in the short term.

In the longer term, the government must focus on creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. SMEs, which form the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, are in dire need of support. Access to affordable credit, subsidies for energy costs, and improved infrastructure would go a long way in reviving these businesses and stimulating job creation. Furthermore, the government should focus on diversifying the economy away from its heavy reliance on oil, investing in agriculture, technology, and other sectors that can provide sustainable economic growth and employment opportunities.

A key component of addressing Nigeria’s economic crisis lies in leadership that takes responsibility. While it is true that no single administration can fix Nigeria’s systemic issues overnight, leadership involves acknowledging the failures of past policies and taking ownership of the current situation. The Tinubu administration cannot afford to sidestep accountability. Instead, it should engage in meaningful dialogue with stakeholders, including the private sector, labor unions, and civil society, to develop comprehensive strategies that address the root causes of the current economic woes.

Moreover, communication is crucial. The Nigerian public deserves transparency and regular updates on the government’s efforts to mitigate the economic crisis. Remi Tinubu’s defense of her husband, while perhaps well-intentioned, lacked the substance that Nigerians are desperate for. Citizens want to know what specific actions the government is taking to improve their lives, how soon they can expect to see positive changes, and how their leaders plan to steer the nation toward economic recovery.

As Nigerians continue to navigate the tough economic terrain, they are not interested in who is to blame for their suffering, they want relief, hope, and solutions. The Tinubu administration must pivot from defensive rhetoric and focus on implementing policies that genuinely uplift the people. Leadership in times of crisis requires humility, empathy, and action. Nigerians are looking for leadership that can provide practical, people-friendly solutions to ease their burden.

The First Lady’s defense of her husband highlights the frustration within the corridors of power, but it misses the mark in addressing the real issues on the ground. Nigerians are tired of excuses, they want a government that listens to their struggles and acts with urgency to deliver solutions. Time is of the essence. The Tinubu administration has the opportunity to turn the tide, but it must act now and act decisively. Nigerians have waited long enough; they deserve a leadership that can bring about the economic relief they so desperately need.

Given the foregoing backdrop, it is expedient to ask, “Who will tell our first lady that Nigerians want people-friendly solutions, not excuses?