A FEW hours after Donald Trump proclaimed victory over Kamala Harris in the United States, US, presidential election, groups in the Caribbean and Latin America met virtually to discuss the future.

Convened by the ten-country Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America, ALBA Movimientos, the participants on the Wednesday, November, 6, 2024, focused on the on-going struggles for independence in Martinique and Guadeloupe and the implications of a second Trump presidency for independence struggles.

Martinique is the birth place of Franz Fanon, famous author of The Wretched of the Earth which became the handbook of many liberation fighters.

Guadeloupe is the butterfly-shaped six-island country with enchanting beaches, tropical rainforest and famous for its rum and sugar.

On the other hand is Western Sahara, also known as the ‘Last colony in Africa’, which has been mainly occupied by neigbouring Morocco in an attempt to re-colonise it. Trump, in one of his inexplicable acts as US President, had given Western Sahara, a land his country never owned, to Morocco. So there is the issue: what would a renewed Trump presidency try against this sovereign African country?

Then there is the issue of Puerto Rico, a US colony whose people have no voting representation in the Congress or federal government. In fact, during the Madison Square Trump rally in October 2024, a comedian, Tony Hinchcliffe, called Puerto Rico a “floating island of garbage”.

Esteli Capote of the IPRI Puerto Rican Institute of International Relations spoke about the outcome of the election and the implications of a renewed Trump presidency.

She said for Puerto Ricans the American election was a “Colonial electoral process” in which the Puerto Rican Independence Party came second. This, she said, was the first time in over two centuries the independence movement would garner such votes. Esteli said with such large amount of votes for those who want independence: “We are saying to the US that we are tired of the colonial process; we are saying we are ready to move on to independence.” She said the US had deliberately impoverished Puerto Ricans and turned them in to a heavily indebted people. She added that Puerto Rico has been consciously working with regional organisations because: “It is important for us to work with the Caribbean, to work towards Our America. We are surrounded by water (but) we touch the same sea. Without the Caribbean, there is no American continent. Unfortunately, Puerto Rico is being used to militarise not just the Americas, but other peoples. There are ten bases in Puerto Rico, not just for war, but also against countries that are progressive like Venezuela. The bases here were used for the attempted coup in Venezuela. It is important to state that Puerto Ricans have never given up on independence.”

Esteli said her people developed the slogan, ‘Puerto Rico for Puerto Ricans’ because US citizens come to displace the people. That slogan, she said, is now being expanded to: “The Caribbean for the Caribbeans” because the people are inspired by the teachings of Bolivia and Jose Marti. She talked about a dream to build a confederation of the Latin American people.

The Puerto Rican leader talked about her experience in Abuja, Nigeria in August, 2024 when the international relations think tank, the Society for International Relations Awareness, SIRA, organised an international conference to end colonialism in the world. She said its main achievement was the transformation of the conference into an international End Colonialism Movement, ECM, with the aim of uniting all colonies to end colonialism.

The Puerto Rican internationalist called on all Caribbean, Pacific and Latin American countries to encourage the establishment of ECM branches. She said organising peoples for freedom has taken a more urgent need with the re-election of Trump because in his last presidency, he issued a lot of decrees against various peoples.

Cuba, she said, has been at the forefront of the war against colonialism. So: “If we want to fight colonialism, we must also fight against the (American) blockade of Cuba.”

Daylon Roque of the ALBA Movimentos said the struggles of the Caribbeans, Latin Americans and Africans are linked.

Roque refered to the February 4, 1962 ‘Second Havana Declaration’ in which Fidel Castro emphasised that national liberation has to be for all peoples. Fidel had submitted: “What is Cuba’s history but that of Latin America’s? What is the history of Latin America but the history of Asia, Africa and Oceania? And what is the history of all these peoples but the history of the cruellest and most ruthless exploitation of the world by imperialism?”

Roque said Cuba decided to militarily intervene in Africa against the advice of the Soviet Union which showed that Cuba was not being dictated to by the former. He said Cuba is propelled by principles which is why it supports Argentina on the issue of the Malvinas which is being colonised by Britain. He said it is based on these principles that Cuba annually raises the issue of de-colonisation in the United Nations.

Alain Limery, of the National Council of Popular Committees in Martinique, said the country is monopolised by the descendants of the old slave owners. He added that the protests in Martinique are a mere symptom of the crises in the region, adding that the option is either chaos or change. He said to the people the only solution is independence. The reaction of colonial France, he added, has been to bring back its murderous riot squad which had previously committed crimes against humanity.

Limery is optimistic that a New World Order is rising, pointing out that the rise of the BRICS may well be heralding that new order.

Jean Yves Judith, of the Association of Workers and Peoples of the Caribbean, presented Guadalupe’s position. He said the French have been saying that colonialism is not a crime against humanity. He added that there is the need to have a structure that can organise the workers and peoples of Martinique and Guadalupe.

Kandis Sebro, host of the virtual conference, highlighted the on-going struggles in Martinique and Guadalupe, the push-back against neo-colonialism in the Sahel, the colonial debt crises heaped on Haiti, the principled struggles of Cuba, the teachings of Walter Rodney on underdevelopment, and the need for emancipation.

The participants said they recognise that the re-election of Trump is part of the rise of the far-right and fascist forces, so there is the need for all progressive forces to unite.

Micherline Islanda Aduel, a youth peasant leader from Haiti who has been displaced for ten years, moderated the conference. She rounded off the programme with the advice that progressive humanity needs to raise awareness against colonialism and build advocacy for freedom.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo recently reflected on his time in prison, recounting the pivotal role his late wife, Stella, played in securing his release.

Obasanjo shared these memories during the inauguration of the 250-bed Stella Obasanjo Hospital in Benin, Edo State’s capital.

Obasanjo was detained under General Sani Abacha’s regime for alleged coup involvement and was freed by AbdulSalam Abubakar’s administration after Abacha’s death, leading to his presidency.

His late wife, Stella Obasanjo from Edo State, championed his release and later became the first lady before passing away during his second term.

Reflecting on her dedication, the 87-year-old praised Stella’s commitment, saying, “My late wife went everywhere to ensure that I came out of prison alive. She was in Vatican City, France and other parts of the world. I had it all coming out of prison.” He added, “No amount of honour would be too much for the role she played.”

Obasanjo expressed deep gratitude for the honour given to Stella through the hospital, noting, “I had a woman who made tremendous contributions to my achievements in public life.”

Obasanjo also acknowledged Governor Godwin Obaseki’s role in the hospital project, lauding him for “starting and finishing well” in office. He further reminisced about his past work with former Governor John Odigie Oyegun, whom he described as an exceptional permanent secretary.

“With this hospital, you’re assured of first-class treatment for any ailment,” he said. “More grace to the elbows of the governor. With this kind of edifice, I can say that the governor started well and is finishing well.”

[Vanguard]

In an era where the concept of marriage is constantly being tested by modern challenges and shifting social values, it is heartwarming and inspiring to stumble upon words that remind us of the true essence of this age-old institution. Recently, Chief (Dr.) Uche Nworah, also known as Ezeudo Enugwu-Ukwuna Umunri, who is a respected brand and marketing expert, shared a profound note on his Facebook page. In it, he offered timeless advice to both married couples and those planning to embark on the journey of matrimony. His words resonated deeply with many, especially couples whose relationships are characterized by disagreements and constant conflicts.

Chief Nworah’s reflections are not just another set of clichés; rather, they are anchored in his nearly two decades of personal experience in marriage. His heartfelt note carries an underlying message of hope, endurance, and partnership, a message that every married couple can learn from.

Ezeudo begins his message with a straightforward but profound piece of advice: “Marry someone who genuinely cares about you. Marry someone who will be in the marriage for the long haul.” In a world where marriages are increasingly seen as disposable, where conflicts often lead to quick divorces rather than resolutions, Chief Nworah’s counsel is a refreshing reminder that the foundation of a lasting marriage lies in genuine care and commitment.

Couples need to understand that marriage is not a sprint but a marathon. The key to staying the course is choosing a partner who is not just physically present but also emotionally invested in the relationship. When two individuals are committed to weathering the storms together, there is little that can break their bond.

The emphasis on selecting a God-fearing, family-oriented, prayerful, hardworking, forgiving, and resourceful partner is another significant point that Ezeudo highlights. These qualities are not only crucial in sustaining a marriage but also in navigating the inevitable challenges that come with it.

When couples are guided by a shared faith and mutual respect, they can draw strength from each other in times of difficulty. Ezeudo’s note reminds us that the person you marry should not just be your partner but also your confidant, cheerleader, and rock. The journey of marriage is long, and having someone who aligns with your values and shares your vision can make all the difference.

One of the most striking parts of Chief Nworah’s message is his statement: “Wives and husbands do not come ready-made and are not manufactured in a factory to be bought off-the-shelf.” This simple yet profound metaphor encapsulates the reality of marriage. Many couples enter into marriage with unrealistic expectations, believing that their partners should be perfect or that love alone will magically smooth out all differences. The truth, as Ezeudo so eloquently points out, is that marriage is a continuous work in progress.

No partner is perfect, and neither are we. It is through the process of understanding, forgiving, and growing together that couples can build a resilient and enduring bond. This lesson is particularly relevant to those whose marriages are characterized by frequent disagreements. Rather than viewing conflicts as the end, couples should see them as opportunities to grow closer, to understand each other better, and to become more tolerant of each other’s weaknesses.

In sharing a personal anecdote, Chief Nworah provided a beautiful testament to the power of support in marriage. Reflecting on an incident where he needed financial help, he recalled how his wife promptly wired the money to him without hesitation. When he asked her why, she simply responded, “I didn’t want my husband to be put to shame.” This small yet powerful gesture speaks volumes about what a supportive and loving marriage should look like.

A successful marriage is not just about grand gestures or lavish displays of affection. It’s in the little acts of kindness, the silent sacrifices, and the unspoken understanding between two people. It’s about being each other’s backbone, especially in moments of vulnerability. When one partner is in need, the other steps in without being asked. This, as Chief Nworah’s story exemplifies, is the true essence of a partnership that lasts.

Chief Nworah’s 19 and a half years of marriage have not been devoid of challenges. Yet, his message is clear: enduring marriages are those that embrace imperfections. “Over time, God perfects your union helping you to overlook each other’s weaknesses and shortcomings,” he says. This powerful statement speaks to the divine role in nurturing and sustaining marriages.

In an era where the pressure to present perfect relationships on social media is at an all-time high, couples can feel discouraged when faced with challenges. However, the reality is that no marriage is without its ups and downs. It’s through God’s grace, patience, and mutual understanding that couples can find harmony despite their differences.

Ezeudo’s words encourage couples to focus on building each other up rather than tearing each other down. It’s a reminder that marriage is not a competition but a collaboration, where both partners bring their strengths to the table to complement each other.

Chief Nworah’s message is not just for those already married but also serves as a valuable guide for intending couples. By emphasizing the importance of choosing a partner who shares your values, is willing to put in the work, and remains committed for the long haul, he provides a blueprint for building a marriage that stands the test of time.

His note concludes with a heartfelt prayer: “May you find that one person, Amen.” This is not just a prayer for those seeking a life partner but also a wish for couples already married to rediscover th

In today’s fast-paced world, where marriages are often overshadowed by societal pressures and unrealistic expectations, Chief (Dr.) Uche Nworah’s reflections serve as a breath of fresh air. His note is a gentle but powerful reminder that marriage is not just about love; it’s about choosing to care, to support, and to grow together every day, even when it’s hard.

For couples whose marriages may be experiencing turbulence, Ezeudo’s words are a beacon of hope, a reminder that every union can be perfected over time with patience, faith, and mutual respect. The message is clear: no marriage is perfect, but with the right partner, the journey can be beautiful, rewarding, and fulfilling.

As couples reflect on these wise words from a man who has walked the marital path for nearly two decades, may they find inspiration to nurture their own relationships, to support each other unconditionally, and to grow together in love.

In a world where setbacks, criticisms, and harsh realities can easily overwhelm even the strongest of spirits, there remains a handful of individuals who, regardless of the odds, refuse to throw in the towel. Among this elite group is Donald J. Trump, the controversial yet undeniably resilient figure whose “never say die” attitude has become his defining trait. Whether you admire or detest him, there is an undeniable lesson in the sheer force of will that he embodies, a lesson from which everyone can draw inspiration.

Donald Trump’s journey has never been an easy ride. From his early ventures in real estate to his eventual emergence as a global political figure, Trump’s life has been marked by a series of challenges that would have discouraged most people. Yet, instead of retreating or succumbing to the pressures, Trump has consistently demonstrated an extraordinary ability to bounce back stronger.

One of the most glaring examples of this resilience was his 2016 presidential campaign. Initially dismissed by many as a joke or a publicity stunt, Trump faced ridicule from political pundits, opponents, and even members of his own party. Yet, against all odds, he secured the Republican nomination and went on to win the presidency in one of the most shocking upsets in American electoral history. For Trump, failure is never an option, it is simply an obstacle to be overcome.

Trump’s journey, however, did not start with the presidency. As a businessman, he faced multiple financial setbacks. He saw his companies file for bankruptcy on several occasions, most notably in the early 1990s. At that time, his flagship property, the Trump Taj Mahal, along with other ventures, was struggling to stay afloat. Many critics predicted that it was the end of Trump’s empire.

Yet, true to his tenacious nature, Trump found ways to restructure his debts, negotiate with creditors, and rebuild his brand. He never allowed financial challenges to define him. Instead, he saw them as stepping stones to future successes. In a speech reflecting on those difficult times, Trump once said, “What separates the winners from the losers is how a person reacts to each new twist of fate.” This mindset, one that embraces adversity as a tool for growth, is what sets him apart.

Despite his contentious presidency, Trump’s impact on American politics is still felt today. After losing the 2020 presidential election to Joe Biden, many assumed that Trump would quietly fade into the background. But that assumption could not have been further from the truth. Trump refused to accept defeat in the traditional sense, launching legal battles to contest the election results and continuing to rally his supporters with the slogan, “Make America Great Again.”

Trump’s refusal to accept defeat might be seen by some as obstinacy, but there is an underlying lesson of persistence and belief in one’s cause. Even with the barrage of criticisms, investigations, and legal challenges that characterized his race to the White House which he just won, Trump has remained undeterred. Instead of retreating into political obscurity, he has continued to be a formidable force within the Republican Party, and has in his resiliency ran for the presidency in 2024 and won. The message here is clear: no matter how hard life knocks you down, there is always a path forward if you are determined to find it.

While Trump’s story is uniquely American and deeply intertwined with the complexities of politics and business, the essence of his resilience is something that anyone can learn from. In our personal and professional lives, we all face challenges, failures, and moments when giving up seems like the easier option. But Trump’s story reminds us that the path to success is rarely straightforward. It is often riddled with detours, dead ends, and disappointments.

Consider how often we are quick to abandon our dreams when we encounter a single setback. The fear of failure or public ridicule can paralyze us. However, Trump’s life is a case study in the power of self-belief. He has shown time and again that criticism, no matter how intense, is no match for the unwavering belief in one’s vision.

At the heart of Trump’s tenacity is a mindset that is fixated on winning. He has often been criticized for his brash demeanor, his unwillingness to concede, and his relentless pursuit of what he believes is rightfully his. Yet, it is this unyielding spirit that has allowed him to keep going, even when the odds were overwhelmingly against him.

Trump’s “never say die” attitude is not just about refusing to accept defeat, it is about reinventing oneself in the face of adversity. It is about pushing boundaries and refusing to be limited by the expectations of others. His unrelenting drive has turned his name into a brand that is recognized globally, proving that there is no limit to what one can achieve with enough determination.

Without a doubt, Trump has bequeathed a resilience formula to humanity through which we can learn from. His resilience can be distilled into several actionable lessons that cut across believing in oneself even when others don’t. In fact, the world will often doubt your capabilities, but what matters is your belief in yourself. If you do not believe in your potential, no one else will.

In a similar vein, he has taught us that failure is not the end. In fact, Trump’s life is filled with examples of turning failures into stepping stones. View setbacks not as an end but as a chance to start over with more wisdom.

Also in a similar vein, he has taught us to stay focused on our visions.  In an era of distractions and naysayers, having a clear vision can keep you grounded. Trump’s commitment to his beliefs, whether popular or controversial, has been a key driver of his success.

Not only that, he has taught people to be relentless in pursuit of their goals. In fact, consistent effort, even in the face of adversity, is what separates those who achieve their goals from those who do not. Trump’s tireless energy, even at an age when most people are contemplating retirement, is proof that relentlessness pays off.

Also learnt from his disposition is that of being not afraid of criticism.  If Trump’s story tells us anything, it is that criticism is a sign that you are doing something impactful. Embrace it, learn from it, but do not let it deter you from your path.

It is easy to get caught up in the polarizing nature of Donald Trump’s personality and politics, but beyond the controversies lies a powerful message of resilience that everyone can relate to. In a world where failure is often feared and criticized, Trump’s example shows us that setbacks are just stepping stones to success. His “never say die” attitude is a testament to the power of grit and determination.

For those navigating personal struggles, career hurdles, or the pursuit of big dreams, Trump’s journey serves as a potent reminder that giving up should never be an option. While you may not agree with his politics, his life story is a testament to the fact that, with enough resilience, you can overcome even the most insurmountable challenges.

So, the next time you face an obstacle that seems too difficult to overcome, remember the spirit of Donald Trump. Whether you admire him or not, there is no denying that his indomitable attitude is a lesson in perseverance, one that each of us can apply in our own lives.

Professor Fidelis Oditah’s  recent interactive discussion on a wide range of issues on Arise News,  are quite engaging.  As a Senior Advocate of Nigeria,  SAN and an international legal mind,  his views on national issues cannot be disregarded.  Benjamin Disraeli,  former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom once said, “with words we govern men”.  Thus, Oditah’ s words are  important and cannot be dismissed as empty effusion lacking weight or impact.

 However,  the learned Professor’s submission on what he called  the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,  EFCC’s three fundamental problems are, to say the least,  prejudicial,  unfounded and misleading.  First,  Oditah stated that  “The EFCC is often being used for settling many scores. Some are political scores, some are social scores. So, you could run away from your girlfriend and the girlfriend goes to the EFCC and the EFCC could ask you questions(sic). What has that got to do with economic crimes? That is blatant  abuse of power”(sic).

 How on earth will this kind of a scenario painted by the learned silk hold water?  The simplest argument against this kind of effusion is to challenge  Oditah to provide proofs of such  banality.  We all know that this just an idle talk because the EFCC is a serious- minded law enforcement agency.  The only worrisome aspect of such a talk is that it betrays an embarrassing lack of grasp of what the EFCC’s focus is. 

This issue of appropriate and proper focusing of the mandate of the EFCC has been a central pivot of the three- pronged agenda of the Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede.  In the full glare of the entire world, while addressing members of the National Assembly in October 2023,  Olukoyede stated that the focus of every fight against corruption was to stimulate growth in the economy.  For more than a year now,  the EFCC’s boss has been consistently following this route. The review of the arrest and bail procedures of the EFCC is in line with this.  Professor Oditah is probably busy with his works as a King’s Counsel in the United Kingdom and have no time to be abreast of development in the EFCC.  Olukoyede is a lawyer of high pedigree and would not allow what the learned counsel called “ blatant abuse of power”.

The second “ fundamental problem of the EFCC”,  according to Oditah is that “The EFCC has abandoned its mandate and reduce itself to a debt- collection agency,  notwithstanding the numerous court decisions saying the EFCC must stay within the narrow confines of financial and economic crimes.  The EFCC has gone out for debt recovery”.   This submission, again, is hollow and vacuous.  The EFCC’s Establishment Act does not empower the Commission to collect debt on behalf of anyone.  The recovery the EFCC does is taking back proceeds of crime from fraudsters. Asset recovery, all over the world,  is a fundamental law enforcement and anti- corruption initiative.  As a matter of  fact,  it is the ground norm of every anti- corruption fight. To this end, Olukoyede in just one year, recovered  N248,750,049,365.52 (Two Hundred and Forty-Eight Billion, Seven Hundred and Fifty Million, Forty-Nine Thousand, Three Hundred and Sixty-Five Naira, Fifty-Two Kobo).

In foreign currencies,  recoveries of the Commission in the one year of Olukoyede’s leadership are: $105,423,190.39 (One Hundred and Five Million, Four Hundred and Twenty-Three Thousand, One Hundred and Ninety Dollars, Thirty-Nine Cents); £ 53,133.64 (Fifty-Three Thousand, One Hundred and Thirty-Three Pounds, Sixty-Four Pence; €172,547.10 (One Hundred and Seventy-Two Thousand, Five Hundred and Forty-Seven Euros, Ten Cents) and many others.

Going by the quantum of these recoveries, not to talk of real estate recovered all over the country,  including shares acquired with proceeds of crime in blue- chip companies,   it is simply preposterous to reduce and ridicule asset recoveries to debt recovery.  Professor Oditah owes the EFCC and the entire nation unconditional apology in this regard. Just two days ago,  a Federal High Court sitting in Lagos granted final forfeitures of over $2million and seven princely properties in choice areas of Lagos to the Federal Government.  The assets are proceeds of crime traced to a former governor of Central Bank of Nigeria,  CBN. Do such recoveries fall into the category of debt recovery insinuation of Oditah? President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently directed that N100billion be channeled to the funding of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, NELFUND and the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation,  CreditCorp, respectively from the monetary recoveries of the EFCC. 

Is the Professor aware of all these?  It is evident that bringing down the issue of asset recovery to the ridiculous corridor of debt recovery is deliberate caricature of an important anti- corruption framework of the government.  This is an initiative which local, regional and international agencies are commending Olukoyede and the EFCC about.   It is to be noted also that the Director of  FBI and the DG of National Crime Agency in the UK where he resides have paid cortesty visits to Olukoyede  commending him  on the feat he has attained in the fight against corruption and financial crimes and to seek more collaboration with the agency in their shared  mandate of fighting  corruption and financial crimes

The third issue Odikah raised against the EFCC, like the earlier issues,  again, lacks any firm ground of substance. Hear him:

“The EFCC itself, a number of officers are more corrupt than those they are chasing.  So,  you remember what happened to Mr Bawa, Mr Matawalle, when Mr Matawalle finished his tenure as governor of Zamfara state and he said he was invited by Mr Bawa to bring $2million so as not to be investigated. The EFCC itself has become a corrupt organisation which needs to be completely disbanded and a new body set up .  The EFCC has the resources. It does not have the ethics. The EFCC majors on minor issues, catching students and showing them as cyber criminals and so it says, it procured 1000 convictions and when you look at them they are people who have defrauded people  of 20 or 22 dollars.  That’s not the mandate. That’s the periphery. The central mandate is to ensure that the resources which are put in the hands of states are used by the states and that’s where the EFCC”

Going through all these trumped- up claims,  it is obvious that Oditah has elected to totally launch unwarranted verbal war against the Commission and its officers.  How many officers of the EFCC have been tainted with corruption allegations?  Is it acceptable to use the “ sins” of very few elements in a community to paint and taint it as a community of sinners? It should be noted that there is no law enforcement agency in the world that is not vulnerable to corrupt officers.  What is important is what the agency is doing to such elements. Olukoyede is known for his no- nonsense approach to ethical issues in the Commission. As a matter of fact,  upon assumption of duties,  he directed every officer of the Commission to declare their assets and ensure that verification of assets so declared is established.  He went ahead to name the Department of Internal Affairs as Department of Ethics and Integrity.  Beyond all these,  some erring officers of the Commission have either been shown the way out or facing trial.   In recent times,  the Commission has had cause to dismiss some officers on allegations of corruption and gross misconduct. The EFCC is self- cleansing and the Commission deserves commendation for this.

It is worrisome that a Professor of the reputation and exposure of Oditah could dismiss the Commission’s onslaught against internet fraudsters as an unserious engagement.  The damages  this genre of fraudsters are causing the nation is untold.  A crime that has a projection of $10.6trillion loss to the whole world in 2025 and Nigeria lost  more than $500million in 2022 alone,  is what Oditah derisively lampooned the EFCC about.  We have cause to be worried that those who ought to know better are either playing the Ostrich or advertising their ignorance of a major malaise confronting the nation.  Owing to the threat of cybercrimes to the development of our country,  the EFCC has held two national dialogues on it.  The recent one held few days ago at the Presidential Villa.  The Professor should know that the EFCC mandate is to investigate all financial and economic crimes  and no financial crime is small or big to be investigated in order to save the soul of the nation. It should be recalled that in recent times,  the EFCC had had cause to prosecute and file charges against  four ex- governors and some former  ministers who were found culpable by EFCC’s  investigation for looting  state treasuries. This is just to confirm that the Commission is not scared of taking up large- scale fraud’s investigations and prosecution which we shall continue to do

There is no denying the fact that the respected professor goofed in all his comments about the EFCC and his views are not reflective of the realities on ground concerning the anti- corruption fight of the government.

On a final note, we enjoin professor Oditah to get himself familiar with the works of the Commission and lend his expertise and rich experience to the nation for a more robust and fully- integrated war against corruption. We also want to advise the fourth estate of the realm not to allow their platforms to be used to cast unfounded aspersions on the good works of the EFCC.  The Commission is not averse to meaningful contributions and advise from well- meaning and reform- minded Nigerians to strengthen our processes and procedures as we continue this crusade,

**Dele Oyewale is Head,  Media & Publicity of the EFCC.

...releases subvention to higher institutions 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has approved the release of the sum of one billion naira as gratuity to State pensioners.

Similarly, the Governor has also approved payment of two months pension arrears to local government pensioners.

This is coming barely a month after the Governor distributed a total N3.5 billion in gratuity cheques to retirees in the state, in a bold effort aimed at offseting the backlog of outstanding gratuities.

Additionally, Governor Oyebanji has also approved payment of two months outstanding subvention to Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti and one month outstanding subvention each to Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, (EKSUTH), Ado-Ekiti; Bamidele Olomilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti; and College of Health Science and Technology, Ijero- Ekiti. 

Also, approved for release is one month outstanding subvention to the Judiciary.

The payments are in fulfilment of the Governor’s promise to priortise welfare and wellbeing of workers and retirees and ensure that all outstanding entitlements of workers and pensioners owed by previous administrations are paid to them in line with the continuity and shared prosperity agenda of the administration.

The Governor urges workers in the state to remain focused on excellent service delivery, assuring them of his administration’s commitment to their welfare as well as payment of all their entitlements.

Yinka Oyebode

Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor

07-11-2024

I understand wealthy US citizens and conservatives of the evangelical hue rooting for Donald Trump. The rich believe he would loosen regulations and protect them and their businesses from excessive taxation. Conservative evangelicals believe he is the bulwark against wokeism, especially the ultra-liberal variety. And white folks want their country back.

But Africans at home and in the Diaspora – what is their business supporting a guy who described their continent as a “shithole” and has worn his anti-immigrant rhetoric on his sleeves? It didn’t seem to make sense that anyone who saw Trump 1.0 would ever dream or wish for the second version. But now, he’s back. He even has the Supreme Court and the Senate in his Red corner as of press time.  

With the media (especially the major networks) awash with polls indicating a dead heat up to zero hours, I became more interested in the pro-Trump sentiment among Nigerians. I also checked in with friends elsewhere on the continent, and the feedback surprised me.

Trump, we want

Some friends told me Trump is just the man the US needs to purge itself of its hubris and arrogance. Once upon a time, the US was a moral force for good worldwide. Its exceptionalism didn’t often require bullying others to make the point.

It did many bad things during the Cold War, as did its arch-rival, the Soviet Union. But after that phase and with the fall of the Berlin Wall, many had hoped to see the emergence of a multipolar world, one in which, if you like, the lion and the lamb would lie side by side.

But that was not to be. From Cuba to Venezuela, Libya to the Persian Gulf and the Middle East, and right up to the old sphere of influence of the USSR, the US stoked—and still stokes—a zero-sumness that hardly brooks “live and let live.” Since then, the world has experienced fewer devastating wars, but it has wrestled with no fewer tensions of a new variety aided and abetted by technology.

Same difference?

Trump 2.0, these folks hope, will do at least two things for the world. It would further hasten the internal decay of the US by aggravating racial tensions and emboldening right-wing excesses. Two, Trump’s America First ultra-insularity and his off-the-fly foreign policy style will distance the US from its traditional allies and enable crazies around the world, like North Korea’s Kim Jong Un, to run amok.

This sounded more like saying that if US voters were happy to be seduced by their worst selves, they deserve what they get.

But that was not all. Some also wanted Trump’s victory as a stick to beat their leaders back home. On the eve of the election, Larry Madowo of CNN reported that Kenyans wanted Trump to win because “with him, you know where you stand.” The report contrasted Trump’s style with Kenya’s political elite, who could hardly be trusted.

Trumphobes

The CNN report might also have been about Nigeria, where Trumphobes wanted him to win for a slightly curiously different reason. They think his anti-immigration policy will force Nigerians and their government to fix their own country. In the US, Nigeria has the highest diaspora population of Africa, 327,000 citizens, followed by Ethiopia, 222,000, and Egypt, 192,000.

It didn’t matter much to the Trumphobes that Nigeria’s US diaspora sends home $20 billion yearly, an increasingly significant source of support for a distressed economy. What is at work is a reverse schadenfreude, which says that the fewer opportunities Nigerian immigrants have outside the country, the more seriously the government would be obliged to fix the country.

Someone even said to me that the “malicious support” for Trump was payback for the bad leaders that the US routinely propped and supported around the world, a list that included Saddam Hussein, Augusto Pinochet and Mobutu Seseko.

Republican African record

Some pro-Trump sentiments are, however, driven by facts. For example, Republicans have a far better record of engaging Africans than Democrats. The Republican Party opposed colonialism. Its support for African initiatives such as the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and efforts to combat AIDS contrasts with the Democrat’s preference for aid diplomacy.  

The hope is that Trump 2.0 will not be an exception. Here, Diasporans are not too far from their Black cousins in the US. A NAACP poll in September showed that one in four Black men under 50 supported Trump for president.

Trump 1.0 showed tough love towards Africa, but it was on his watch, for example, that the US finally authorised the sale to Nigeria of the much-needed fighter jets for the prosecution of the war on Boko Haram, which President Barack Obama had blocked for eight years. On his part, President Joe Biden will only make a brief visit – his first to Africa in four years – to Angola on his way out of the White House.

Better or worse?

Trump’s overwhelming victory might mean one of two things for his presidency: The weight of the responsibility could humble him and increase the likelihood that he would be more restrained than before. On the other hand, it could also bring out the worst in him – that feeling that he never really lost in 2020, that he was cheated of victory as he claimed, that it’s now time to take his pound of flesh with a vengeance.

We’ll have to wait and see. If Trump 2.0 means Africans who were not on the radar during the campaign will now have to look inward and find their way through an uncertain future, then so be it.

Ukraine and Gaza

Trump’s victory might hasten the end of the war in Ukraine and, hopefully, improve the protracted global supply chain crisis that has affected the supply of agricultural products and cooking oils to many African countries. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky knows he cannot depend on Trump to bear the cost of a war that has, for all purposes, become a meat grinder. The war in Ukraine might end sooner than later.

As for the Middle East, Trump. 1.0 moved the Embassy of the US from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem despite protests by the Palestinians and some Arab countries. If that means anything, it should suggest that Trump 2.0 will not walk on the eggshell of a two-state solution in his approach to the current war on Gaza. He’s flat-out pro-Netanyahu and big on oil deals with Gulf states.

I make no pretence of my dislike of Trump’s politics. Nor do I have any illusions that his second term would be significantly different from his first, which left the world holding its breath dangerously for four years. But if he’s the man American voters have chosen to lead them, so be it. Unfortunately, what America does – for good or ill – affects the rest of the world whether or not we cast a ballot.

Ishiekwene, Editor-In-Chief of LEADERSHIP, is the author of the new book Writing for Media and Monetising It.

Donald Trump’s return to the White House as the 47th President of the United States, following a dramatic victory over Kamala Harris, brings new questions for Nigeria’s economic outlook.

Trump’s economic policies, built around “America First,” prioritize domestic energy production, tariffs on imports, and pushing for low interest rates.

These policies could have a significant impact on Nigeria’s economy, particularly in the areas of exchange rates, capital flows, inflation, and immigration. Below is an analysis of how these shifts could affect Nigeria’s economic landscape.

Key takeaways 

Donald Trump’s second term could have sweeping implications for Nigeria’s economy.

• A stronger dollar, potential capital outflows from the U.S., and low global oil prices may add to Nigeria’s exchange rate volatility, putting pressure on the naira and increasing inflation.
• Immigration restrictions could reduce remittance flows, while geopolitical shifts might reduce U.S. support for Nigeria’s security and development needs.
• Nigeria’s policymakers may need to consider alternative strategies, such as fostering regional trade, increasing non-oil exports, and pursuing structural reforms to counterbalance the potential challenges posed by Trump’s policies.

Exchange Rate pressures from a Stronger Dollar

Trump’s policies could lead to a stronger U.S. dollar, particularly if his administration imposes tariffs that increase demand for domestically produced goods and services.

• A stronger dollar generally makes it more expensive for emerging economies like Nigeria to acquire foreign exchange, potentially straining the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) efforts to stabilize the naira.
• Nigeria’s naira has depreciated by over 45% this year, and an appreciation of the dollar could further weaken the naira, impacting import costs, inflation, and purchasing power.
• A stronger dollar also increases Nigeria’s debt-servicing costs, as many of Nigeria’s obligations are dollar-denominated.
• Given Nigeria’s reliance on imports for fuel, raw materials, and consumer goods, additional dollar strength could heighten inflationary pressures on already high living costs.

Interest rates and Capital Flows into Nigeria 

Historically, Trump has favoured a low-interest-rate environment, pushing the Federal Reserve to maintain a loose monetary policy even during periods of economic growth.

• During Trump’s initial presidency, the Federal Reserve raised interest rates, peaking at 2.5% in 2018 before cutting them near zero by March 2020 to counteract the economic effects of COVID-19.
• Trump’s renewed pressure for lower interest rates could again influence the Federal Reserve’s policy direction.
• If the Federal Reserve keeps rates low, this could, in theory, result in capital outflows from the U.S. as investors seek higher returns in emerging markets.
• However, if dollar strength persists and other global markets remain volatile, investor sentiment may still favour U.S. assets as a haven.

From 2016 to 2020, Nigeria attracted approximately $58.1 billion in capital importation, with 2019 seeing the highest inflows at $23 billion.

• This was in part due to Nigeria offering high-yielding instruments like government bonds, which attracted foreign investors—including $4.69 billion from U.S. sources in that year.
• Should Trump’s policies create a continued low-yield environment in the U.S., Nigeria could once again attract U.S.-based capital looking for higher returns, particularly if Nigeria maintains attractive interest rates on its debt instruments.
• This capital inflow could help alleviate Nigeria’s foreign exchange pressures and support naira stability.

Inflation and Trump’s energy policies 

Trump’s focus on reducing U.S. energy costs by increasing domestic oil production and drilling on federal lands could mean sustained low global oil prices. In his first term,

• Trump’s policies and the COVID-19 pandemic led to WTI crude oil prices falling sharply to around $39.17 per barrel in 2020, compared to $65.20 per barrel in 2018.
• As Nigeria heavily relies on oil exports for government revenue and foreign exchange, prolonged low oil prices could impact budget stability and government spending, with knock-on effects on inflation and economic growth.
• Furthermore, Trump’s proposed tariffs on imports, including a 60% tariff on Chinese goods, could raise inflation within the U.S., which might trickle down to Nigeria by increasing the cost of imported goods and components.
• Since the U.S. is among Nigeria’s top trading partners (N2.2 trillion in imports and N2.8 trillion in exports in the first half of 2024), a U.S.-led price increase could influence Nigeria’s inflation through costlier imports of essential goods like machinery, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural products.

Immigration and Nigerian diaspora impact 

Trump’s return to office raises concerns for Nigerians regarding U.S. immigration policy. His administration previously imposed travel restrictions on Nigeria, citing national security risks, which disrupted the movement of students, professionals, and family members.

• If Trump reinstates such policies, it could dampen the ability of Nigerians to pursue educational and work opportunities in the U.S.
• This restriction would not only impact Nigerian nationals but could also reduce remittance flows, which are a major source of foreign exchange for Nigeria.
• In recent years, remittances from the Nigerian diaspora have contributed over $20 billion annually to Nigeria’s economy, helping to offset FX shortages.
• A decrease in remittance inflows would reduce domestic consumption and place additional pressure on Nigeria’s foreign reserves, which are already under strain.

Geopolitical dynamics and U.S. aid to Nigeria 

Under Trump’s “America First” foreign policy, military aid and development assistance to African nations were deprioritized in favour of reducing overseas commitments.

• For Nigeria, which partners with the U.S. in counter-terrorism and security, this could imply reduced military support.
• Nigeria has relied on U.S. assistance to combat Boko Haram and other insurgent groups, so any reduction in support could undermine Nigeria’s regional security efforts.
• A decline in aid could also impact Nigeria’s developmental projects and social programs funded by U.S. agencies.
• With high poverty rates and a significant need for investment in health, education, and infrastructure, a reduction in aid would necessitate increased spending by the Nigerian government, potentially redirecting funds away from other critical areas.

Trade Policies and Nigerian Exports to the U.S. 

Trump’s “Buy American” policy has often focused on reducing imports and increasing tariffs, which could impact Nigeria’s trade relationship with the U.S.

• In the first half of 2024, Nigeria recorded a trade surplus with the U.S., with imports at N1.9 trillion and exports at N3.1 trillion.
•  If Trump’s tariff policies discourage U.S. imports from Nigeria, this could negatively affect Nigeria’s export earnings, particularly for sectors like oil, minerals, and agricultural products.
• A decrease in exports to the U.S. might impact Nigeria’s current account balance, further complicating its exchange rate and foreign reserve challenges.

[Nairametrics]

A prominent Niger Delta elder and chieftain of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Chief Edwin Clark, has called for an investigation into what he described as the misuse of oaths by lawmakers in the Rivers State House of Assembly, who are reportedly loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike.

Martins Amawhule leads the legislators in question, Naija News reports.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Clark accused the lawmakers of contradictory declarations regarding their party loyalties while under oath.

He urged law enforcement authorities to thoroughly investigate the matter, emphasizing the seriousness of such discrepancies.

“Amawhule and his associates have made conflicting statements under oath, at times professing allegiance to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and at other moments aligning with different political groups,” Clark said, describing this as a grave issue requiring immediate police attention.

Clark’s statement also took aim at recent court rulings involving the Rivers State House of Assembly, denouncing the judgments as “obtained by fraud.”

He alleged that Amawhule and his colleagues withheld crucial information that influenced the outcomes of decisions made by Justice James Omotoso and the Court of Appeal.

The controversy dates back to December 11, 2023, when Amawhule and 26 other assembly members defected from the PDP to join the All Progressives Congress (APC).

According to Clark, this defection breached Section 109(1)(g) of the Nigerian Constitution, which mandates that any lawmaker who switches parties without just cause should forfeit their seat. He argued that by leaving the PDP, these lawmakers had effectively vacated their positions.

Following their defection, the lawmakers submitted legal documents containing inconsistent claims about their party membership.

Clark contended that these contradictions undermine the validity of a January 22, 2024, ruling by Justice Omotoso, who did not account for the constitutional provision regarding party defection and seat forfeiture.

Clark also raised concerns over the actions of Justice Okorowo, who blocked the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from initiating the process of replacing the defected lawmakers.

This decision, Clark noted, was issued shortly before Justice Okorowo’s elevation to the Court of Appeal, raising questions about the timing and implications of the judgment.

In addition to these criticisms, Clark expressed disappointment over recent remarks made by the Court of Appeal directed at Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, adding another layer of complexity to the ongoing political turmoil in Rivers State.

[NaijaNews]