By Gabriel Agbeja, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Over the years, Nigeria’s aviation sector has shown resilience in the face of daunting challenges such as perennial scarcity of aviation fuel known in the industry as Jet A1 and high exchange rates and its multiplier effects on aircraft maintenance and ticket costs.

Others are, repatriation of funds owed to foreign airlines, safety compliance, infrastructure, human capacity development, inability to keep to flight schedules.

Among these challenges is what airline operators see as multiple taxation, which according to them, is frustrating the expansion and growth of the sector.

Aviation sector stakeholders, including workers and customers insist that the authorities must fix these challenges for the sector to hit its potential.

According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), from the international scene alone, the air transport industry, including airlines and its supply chain, are estimated to contribute 600 million  dollars to Nigeria’s GDP in Nigeria.

AITA says spending by foreign tourists supports a further 1.1 billion  dollars for the country’s GDP, totalling to 1.7 billion dollars.

However, observers of developments in the sector say being Africa’s largest market for passenger flows with about 70 per cent, Nigeria’s Aviation sector has the potential to contribute more.

With what is considered low ticket rates (when the charges are converted to U.S. dollars), some private sector operators say the government should save the sector from more harm by moderating the multiple taxation they are subjected to.

The Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, says for Nigerians to enjoy lower air travel tickets therefore the Federal Government must step in to save the aviation sector by moderating the over 20 taxes paid on every ticket purchased by travellers.

Okonkwo said at a public event recently that the government should also address what he described as the astronomical rise in the foreign exchange regime.

“Operators are forced to buy spares and fix their aircraft in dollars even without increases in the cost of such spares abroad; the cost of doing so continues to rise due to the high exchange rate.

“Government must act fast to salvage the industry as the forex regime threatens to push up ticket prices further. Let there be a review of taxes on each air ticket as some of them are repetitions.

“Government should create an enabling environment for the aviation sector to survive, like access to single digit capital, reduction in all charges and taxes that impact negatively on air travel business,” he said.

Okonkwo, urged the government to show more interest in supporting the growth of the aviation sector, adding that the government was in a position to recoup its investment in the sector.

Similarly, General Manager of Azman Air, Mr Lawan Suleman, during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) pleaded with the Federal Government to reduce the taxes for the airlines to grow.

“The authorities are really unconcerned about the high cost of ticket prices because they charge higher taxes, which is why they don’t care about how airlines are changing the customers.

“To be sincere that the airlines cannot do anything about the continued rise of the airfare. The cause of the problems is the exchange. Airlines will need to purchase spare parts in foreign currency.

“If the government can help the airlines with proper control of foreign currency, the cost of tickets can be reduced to enable customers to enjoy better prices,” he said.

Meanwhile, retired Group Capt. John Ojikutu, a former Military Commander, Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos said that as long as the Naira kept rising against the dollar and the nation  kept importing fuel, there would be no respite for air travellers.

According to him, some of the airlines have poor business plans for sustaining their operations believing that ground and air support services were free.

He said such airlines did not have adequate knowledge of the routes and passenger availability on the routes to facilitate profit margins.

“The increase of airfares did not start today. It started way back in the mid 90s, first with the increase of the naira against the dollar to N40/$.

“ Not many people would remember that the air fare to Abuja in the mid 90s was between N3,800 and N4,000 for about an hour flight.

“Remember too that fuel was being refined in Nigeria and not imported with irrational subsidies as we are doing today“ he said.

Ojikutu frowned at the move by the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) to increase its navigational charges on the domestic Airlines.

“ It should rather challenge the NCAA for the shortfalls in its 23 per cent shares of the 5 per cent charges on Ticket Sales Charges (TSC), Cargo Sales Charges (CSC) and Chartered Flights.

“What NAMA is doing is what many would call double charges. I have written to the NASS (National Assembly) before the review of the Civil Aviation Act of 2022 that the shares of the NCAA be reduced from 53 per cent to 40 per cent and NAMA shares be increased from 23 per cent to 35 per cent.

Mr Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, says issues within the sector including financial instability, regulatory challenges, and operational inefficiencies are being addressed by the Federal Government.

Speaking at a conference recently hosted by the League of Airport and Aviation Correspondents in Lagos, Kayomo said some airlines even obtained Air Operating Certificates (AOCs) but never launched their services.

The minister inferred that the inability of these airlines to remain viable underscored the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to ensure the long-term health and sustainability of Nigeria’s aviation industry.

The minister also listed lack of flag carriers, inadequate infrastructure, aircraft shortage, limited international connectivity and insurance challenges as parts of a setback militating against the sector.

Keyamo said the Federal Government would intensify efforts to enhance the local airlines` capacities to be efficient, effective in their operations.

He said the nation ought to have flag carriers within aviation who will make the country proud in the absence of national carriers.

He stated that such flag carriers would service the nation`s reciprocal rights under all the different Bilateral Aviation Safety Agreements (BASAs) the nation had.

“ In fact, of course, we need to enhance capacity in the industry, capacity for development. Train and retrain our technical people within the industry.

“Also ensuring that we raise their standards to global standards; and of course, to boost their revenue optimisation.

“Without imposing extra taxes on people, let us just optimise revenue. That is why I took a memo to the council, “ he said.

The minister said the government was also working toward ensuring that the issue of insurance was based in the local market.

On the establishment of Maintenance, Repair Overhauls (MROs), the minister said the government was taking steps through Public -Private Partnership (PPP) to achieve that.

“We need to bring in the MROs. People are already talking with us. I don’t want to let the cat out of the bag. Very soon, we are going to call for partnership.

“That is the only way to go. And I think we need to call in people with money. So, for our local businessmen, our banks, financial institutions, financiers, don’t say that foreigners are coming to take your business away.

If the right environment is provided for local airlines the cost of operations would reduce resulting in drop in airfares; there would be more passenger satisfaction.

It would also mean that more people can afford air transportation in a country where it is seen as a luxury. It would have a spill-over effect on infrastructure development and make the nation’s aviation sector to become globally competitive. (NANFeatures)

** If used please credit the writer and News Agency of Nigeria.

By Victor Okoye, News Agency of Nigeria, (NAN)

Before the closing ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games commenced last Sunday at Stade de France, most of the members of Nigeria’s contingent to the World’s greatest sports show were already back to their bases or shopping in the City of Romance.

A total of 88 athletes featured across 12 sports for Nigeria at the Paris Olympic Games which held from July 26 to Aug. 11.

The events are, Badminton, Basketball, Boxing, Canoeing, Cycling, Football, Swimming, Table-tennis, Taekwondo, Weightlifting and Wrestling.

The Americans also won the most total medals with 126 to China’s 91, after winning 42 bronze medals as against China’s 24, both countries tied at 40 gold medals.

Team Nigeria had one of its worst performances since joining the Olympic movement as an independent country at the 1964 Tokyo Olympic. Zero gold. Zero silver. Zero bronze.

The embarrassing outing matched that of Mexico 1968, Moscow 1980, Seoul 1988 and London 2012. Even as a debutant in 1964 Nigeria won one bronze medal.

At Rio 2016 Nigeria managed one silver medal. Four years later in Tokyo, the country won one silver and one bronze. The glittering year was 1996 when Nigeria won two gold, one silver and one bronze medal.

At least nine African countries, including Kenya and South Africa won gold, but the “Giant of Africa” with over 200 million people returned empty handed.

This was in spite of over N12 billion released for this year’s Olympics, which is almost twice the amount budgeted for the entire Ministry of Science and Technology for 2024.

The Sports Minister had confirmed before the start of the Games that the Federal Government approved and released over N12 billion for Team Nigeria with N9 billion budgeted for the Olympics.

The remaining N3 billion is expected to cater for the Paralympics team, which will hold in the same city from Aug. 28 to Sept. 8.

Sports analysts say many factors are responsible for Nigeria’s abysmal performance, including administrative shortcomings and poor talent management.

Nigeria had glimpses of success, but the hope was dashed as the athletes that carried the dreams of the sports loving country failed to shine.

Tobi Amusan did not make the final of the women’s 100 metres hurdles, in spite of the fact that she came into the Games as the world record holder.

Ese Brume finished fifth in the women’s long jump, while Blessing Oborududu suffered a painful defeat as she ended her contest in the women’s 68 kg wrestling event without a podium finish.

Hannah Reuben lost her Women’s Freestyle 76kg fight early Saturday to effectively put the country’s slim hope of making the podium to rest.

Mongolia’s Enkh-Amaryn Davaanasan defeated her 5-2 in the round of 16 tie, capping off the country’s worst Olympic outing since London 2012.

The female basketball team, the Tigress showed glimmers of hope after beating top teams, Australia and Canada to make it to the quarter final. But they came short against their U.S counterparts.

In addition to the abysmal performance, the country also dealt with a handful of controversies at the Games.

The most prominent was the exclusion of Favour Ofili from the women’s 100 metres race in spite of holding one of the best qualifying times.

Another was the revelation by Ese Ukpeseraye that she had to borrow a track bike from the German team to perform in the Keirin cycling event.

The administrative issues continued with athletes’ agitation over the disparity between the amount paid to the foreign-based athletes and their home-based counterparts.

Nigeria-based athletes who represented the country at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games demanded same training grants as their foreign-based counterparts

It was learnt that the foreign-based athletes were paid 5,000 dollars as their training grant for the Games, while their local counterparts got 1,000 dollars.

However, it was not all doom for Nigeria as Ofili became the first Nigerian to make the women’s 200 metres final in 28 years, while Samuel Ogazi also broke a 38-year jinx by making the men’s 400m final.

Also, Nigeria had three athletes- Brume, Ruth Usoro and Prestina Ochonogor in the women’s long jump final event.

Japan finished third with 20 gold, 12 silver and 13 bronze for a total of 45, while Australia came in fourth place with 18 gold, 19 silver and 16 bronze for a total of 53.

But no factor arguably counted more against Nigeria more than talent migration as while Nigeria won no medal, several athletes of Nigerian descent won laurels of different hues for their adopted countries.

Some of such athletes include: Yemisi Ogunleye (gold, Shot put, Germany), Samuel Omorodion, (gold, football, Spain), Michael Olise (silver, football, France), Anette Echikunwoke, silver, hammer throw U.S) and Barthélémy Chinenyeze, (gold, volleyball, France).

Others are: Salwa Eid Nasara (silver, Bahrain, 400 metres). She was formerly known as Ebelechukwu Agbapuonwu and performed at the 2013 School Sports in Port Harcourt and the National Youth Games in Ilorin, Femi “Bam” Adebayo (gold, U.S. basketball, men).

There was also Rasheed Adeleke, Republic of Ireland. Though she did not have a podium finish at the Olympics she has been an Irish national record holder. Ayomide Folorunsho competed for Italy in the women’s 400m.

Similarly, Saheed Idowu competed in the Table Tennis event wearing the colours of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Out of these seven athletes who won medals, the story of Echikunwoke was the most touching as it was reported that she was set to compete for Nigeria way back at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics before switching her allegiance to the U.S.

Echikunwoke could have competed in green and white, but for administrative oversight by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN).

Instead, the 28-year-old became the first American woman to win an Olympic medal in the hammer throw event.

The AFN had failed to comply with a rule which requires athletes to undergo three out-of-competition tests within a 10-month period before a major event.

Echikunwoke said she had provided her whereabouts to the AFN six times in that timeframe, but no-one came to test her in the USA.

Indeed, Echikunwoke’s story is just one amongst many of such Nigerian athletes who chose to migrate to other foreign countries for one reason or the other.

Some have had to endure and put up with such nonchalant attitude and negligence of the Sports Ministry, Athletics Federation of Nigeria, and the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC).

A case in point is that of Nigerian athlete Favour Ofili who expressed her disappointment and frustration after being omitted from the 100m Women’s event at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

This unpardonable exclusion has been attributed to the negligence of both the AFN and the NOC. Ofili took to Instagram to voice her frustration.

Ofili later competed in the 200m race but ended up with a disappointing sixth place in the final.

Sports Minister, John Owan-Enoh, had pledged to implement severe actions to make amends and assuage the anger of the sports fraternity.

In a statement on his official X account, Enoh expressed strong dissatisfaction with the AFN and the NOC for their mishandling of the registration process.

Enoh criticised the negligence, declaring it unacceptable and promising that those responsible would face sanctions after a thorough investigation.

Why do Nigerian elite athletes easily accept nationality switch?

Analysts say first among the list is the search for better facilities and training opportunities. Foreign countries may offer superior training facilities, coaching, and support staff, giving athletes a competitive edge.

Unfortunately, Nigeria’s sports system faces challenges like inadequate funding, poor facilities, and administrative issues, driving athletes to seek opportunities elsewhere.

There is also the issue of financial incentives as some countries offer attractive financial packages, scholarships, or sponsorships to athletes, which can be a significant draw.

Citizenship and residency requirements are also factors as athletes may have dual citizenship or residency in another country, making it easier to represent that nation.

Last, but not least is the Olympic eligibility rules whereby the International Olympic Committee (IOC) allows athletes to switch nationalities under certain conditions, making it possible for Nigerians to compete for other countries even after competing under green-white-green.

It’s indeed a complex issue with various factors contributing to their decisions. However, it is essential to acknowledge the athletes’ personal choices and decisions while also addressing the underlying issues in Nigeria’s sports system.

Sports Entrepreneur and Chairman Gombe State Athletics Association, Ahmed Gara-Gombe, says there is need for an overhaul starting with the sack of Sports Minister.

Gara-Gombe told NAN that Tinubu should also impose serious sanctions on the NOC President, Habu Gumel and the AFN president, Tonobok Okowa as a deterrent for negligence.

“The negligence, inefficiency, and the corruption that have eaten deep into Nigerian Sports are the root cause of this.

Godwin Bamigboye, the National Coordinator of the Association of Football Administrators in Nigeria (AFAN) said the sports federations were poorly funded and managed.

Bamigboye said politics was allowed to prevail over common sense and merit in appointments to federation boards, excluding the passionate.

“The worst is the appointment of novices as sports ministers. The fault lies at the door of the Presidents since 1999.

“They use sports to reward politicians instead of appointing capable administrators. This does not need money, just wisdom.

“President Bola Tinubu can return Nigeria to its halcyon days. In the Barcelona ’92 Games, Nigeria had two finalists in the men’s and one in the women’s 100m.

“With 7.12m, Chioma Ajunwa gave Nigeria its first athletics gold at Atlanta ’96. The U23 team beat Argentina to the gold in the ’96 Games and silver medal at Beijing 2008,” he said. (NANFeatures)

** If used please credit the writer and News Agency of Nigeria

By Ismail Abdulaziz, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Mr Ajayi Audu banks with the 37 year-old Unity Bank Plc and has been a customer for the past 19 years since he started work in the civil service.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) recently announced the bank’s merger with Providus Bank Ltd.

In a statement, the CBN said the merger is contingent on its financial support, adding that the fund would be instrumental in addressing Unity Bank’s total obligations to the Central Bank and other stakeholders.

“It is unequivocal to state that the CBN’s action is in accordance with the provisions of Section 42 (2) of the CBN Act, 2007. This arrangement is crucial for the financial health and operational stability of the post-merger organisation,” it said.

What came to the mind of Audu was the security of his money in this bank, taking into cognisance the recent liquidation of the Heritage Bank by the CBN.

‘’I hear about the merger but I don’t understand what this means to my deposits with Unity Bank. I would not like to hear stories or face the hardship involved in such events.

‘’Many people have started withdrawing their hard-earned monies from the bank for fear of uncertainties. I am just waiting for my salary to drop and go and collect,’’ he told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

Abigail Jimoh is another customer of Unity Bank. She has been banking with the bank for upwards of 15 years. The same fear of losing her deposit is high in her mind.

“I can’t afford my money to go to waste. The experience of most Nigerian bank customers that I hear is not palatable, to say the least.

“I pray something tangible will be done to safeguard our deposit,” she said.

In light of the economic challenges and headwinds occasioned by external and domestic shocks, the CBN has mandated a recapitalisation programme for banks to strengthen their asset base.

The apex bank also hopes that the measure would support economic growth in line with the Federal Government’s target of achieving a 1 trillion-dollar economy by 2030.

The CBN believes that the capital market will play a major role in facilitating the recapitalisation programme as the banks are expected to leverage the market to raise the needed funds and engage in various forms of business combinations.

The fear of any change in the banking system of Nigeria is a common decimal among customers.

Such a fear arose from how to get back their money, the long process of getting it back and also the amount to be refunded in the long run.

This fear, undoubtedly, is due to a lack of proper understanding among the majority of customers of financial institutions in the country.

They have little understanding of when a bank is at risk, what will happen if a bank is declared at risk, how they will get back their money, and from whom.

The Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) is a government entity that deals with the stability of depositors’ money in financial institutions in the country.

On its website, the NDIC stated that the Deposit Insurance Scheme (DIS) is one of its major activities designed as a risk minimizer.

This guarantees the payment of deposits up to the maximum limit in accordance with its statute in the event of failure of an insured financial institution.

“The Corporation supervises banks to protect depositors; foster monetary stability; promote an effective and efficient payment system; and promote competition and innovation in the banking system.

“Banking supervision is an essential element of the Nigeria deposit insurance scheme as it seeks to reduce the potential risk of failure and ensures the unsafe and unsound banking practices do not go unchecked.”

In its 2006 Act and the 2023 revised Act, the NDIC is charged with providing insurance for all deposit liabilities of licensed banks and such other financial institutions operating in Nigeria within the meaning of Sections 16 and 20 of its Act.

This is with a view to engendering confidence in the Nigerian banking system.

It is also to assist insured institutions in the interest of depositors, in case of imminent or actual financial difficulties of banks particularly where suspension of payments is threatened, and avoiding damage to public confidence in the banking system.

Similarly, the NDIC is to guarantee payments to depositors, in case of imminent or actual suspension of payments by insured institutions up to the maximum as provided for in section 20 of its Act.

Mr Mukhial Abiru, Chairman, Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and other Financial Institutions recently underscored the relevance of NDIC in solidifying depositors’ confidence in the banking industry.

“To that extent, the role of the NDIC is very important’’, Abiru said at a retreat recently.

The event drew participants from lawmakers and officials of NDIC and aimed at strengthening the legislative framework for deposit insurance and ensuring the continued stability of the Nigerian banking system.

NDIC is aware of the enormity of the assignment, which includes recapitalisation, as acknowledged by its deputy director, Communications and Public Affairs Department, Hajiya Hawwa’u Gambo at the 45th edition of the Kaduna International Trade Fair.

“Indeed, our priority at NDIC is the protection of Nigerian depositors.

“We are dedicated to safeguarding depositors’ funds from the adverse effects of bank failure and complementing the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in effectively supervising insured deposit-taking financial institutions and formulating sound banking policies’’, she said.

According to the European Central Bank, the benefits of recapitalisation “are related to an increase in bank resilience to adverse shocks.

“Higher capitalisation allows banks to withstand negative shocks and moderates the reduction of credit to the real economy that ensues in adverse circumstances”.

According to Quantive, a Strategy Execution Platform, recapitalisation involves the partial sale of a company to private equity firms or venture capitalists.

The business sale could be of a minority stake or even a massive 70 to 80 per cent stake, depending on the purpose behind it.

“Usually, business owners aim for a successful exit, a smooth business transition from one generation to another, or a comfortable retirement.

‘’Recapitalisation helps business owners get to the next level in their journey with the company.”

In light of the above, it is expedient to apply the right dose of information on President Bola Tinubu-led administration’s efforts to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the banking system.

Such an information toolkit should also involve how banking reforms would affect ordinary customers, and to allay their fears.

In the case of the Heritage Bank liquidation, the NDIC has said that it will repay customers from the yearly premium paid by the bank.

For deposits beyond the ₦5 million threshold the corporation said it would assess the bank’s assets and sell whatever it can, as well as recover the bank loans and sell whatever investments the bank has.

Effective communication in times of change will ensure that everyone is well-informed about the upcoming changes.

The communication should also be strategic and bespoke; tailored to each specific audience, addressing their concerns, and providing a clear understanding of why the change is happening.

The CBN and NDIC need to up their game in the area of information on the impact of recent calls for bank recapitalisation in the country.

The citizens face daunting challenges in their daily lives, which can be resolved through proper sensitisation of government policies and programmes by relevant stakeholders charged with such responsibilities.

Like the Hausa people will say ‘’Kwanchiyar hankali yafi zama dan Sarki’’ (Having peace of mind is better than being a Prince). (NANFeatures)

**If used please credit the writer and News Agency of Nigeria

By Chijioke Okoronkwo and Felicia Imohimi, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

The current cost of living crisis vis-à-vis attendant agitations has accentuated the need to scale up the agriculture budget.

Policy analysts hold that the N362.9 billion appropriated to the agriculture sector in the 2024 budget fell short of the 2014 Malabo Declaration that African countries should allocate at least 10 per cent of their national budgets to the agricultural sector.

Stakeholders in the agriculture sector are taking proactive measures to ramp up the agriculture budget in 2025 in order to bolster food production.

The stakeholders converged on Lagos recently under the aegis of the National Stakeholders Consultative meeting on 2025 agriculture budget.

They comprised state ministries of agriculture, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMFS), Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, ActionAid Nigeria, Oxfam, GIZ, Community of Agriculture Non-State Actors (COANSA) and ECOWAS Commission.

Underlining the thrust of the event,   Mrs Elizabeth Egharevba, Director, Economic Growth Department, Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, said the annual event was to assist the country to achieve the Malabo declaration.

Egharevba, represented by Mr Olaitan Fatai, Deputy Director in the ministry, said that the meeting was strategic by bringing together relevant stakeholders to contribute their inputs into the 2025 agricultural budget.

She identified the forum as a milestone in the country’s efforts at ensuring that it achieved the Malabo declaration and proffered solutions to the country’s food insecurity.

Egharevba said that the result was to reduce food importation, pressure on external reserves and much needed hard earned FOREX that would be channeled to other vital developmental needs.

“This platform facilitates more inputs into the 2025 agriculture budget by creating ownership, linking and integrating programmes that will help Nigeria not only to achieve food security but lead to attain other deliverables.

“I am confident that we are embarking on a landmark journey that will make us tackle food insecurity and enhance synergy between agencies in the agriculture sector’’, she said.

Egharevba said the forum had made a significant impact in improving the budget of agriculture since its inception in 2016.

The director said the agriculture budget had risen to six per cent as against 1.3 per cent in 2016.

“The appropriation to agriculture at federal level has been increasing steadily, although yet to achieve 10 per cent of the total national budget in line with the Malabo declaration,’’ she said.

Egharevba said that the government had devoted more resources to agriculture in the 2025 budget through the development of the Cassava Bio-ethanol value chain project with a PPP arrangement.

According to her, the project is designed to be implemented in the six geopolitical zones to ensure the development of the entire cassava value chain.

Sharing similar opinion, Mr Ibrahim Tanimu, Director, Planning and Policy Coordination in the ministry, said the sector needed diversification through innovation and technology to enhance production and ensure food and nutrition security.

Tanimu said the ministry at the moment was collaborating with the Ministry of Science and Technology for the production of fabricated implements that could assist farmers to increase productivity.

“We need mechanisation not heavy machines but smaller fabricated machines that we can produce locally using our own initiative.

“We are collaborating with the Ministry of Science and Technology on the production of smaller implements that can assist our farmers at affordable prices,’’ he said.

Mr Azubike Nwokoye, Food and Agriculture Programme Manager, ActionAid Nigeria (AAN), identified the meeting’s objectives as to leverage understanding on the National Agricultural Technology and Innovation Policy (NATIP).

Nwokoye said the meeting was also to leverage understanding on the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) and its connection to the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) targets.

“The meeting seeks to strengthen citizens’ participation towards making the 2025 agriculture budget responsive to food systems transformation and wealth creation.

“To support effective biennial reporting by Nigeria to the African Union Heads of States and Government in line with the Malabo Declaration and Commitments of 2014,”he said.

Mr Andrew Mamedu, Country Director, AAN, said such budgets should provide line items for the implementation of the National Gender Policy in agriculture that addressed specific challenges affecting women farmers.

Mamedu urged governments to avoid lumping up the budget for women farmers and other groups like youths.

He said that a recent survey conducted by AAN on the capacity of smallholder women farmers to contribute effectively to agricultural development revealed that they were challenged with poor access to credit and inputs.

The country director listed other challenges as post-harvest losses, reduction support, insecurity, lack of access to irrigation support, training, market access, among others.

Mamedu said that the challenges contributed to the current high cost of food in the country.

According to Mamedu, smallholder farmers contribute 70 to 80 per cent of agricultural production in the country.

He regretted that challenges confronting smallholder farmers were not prioritised in spite of their huge contribution to national food security,

“The Federal and State Ministries of Agriculture should scale up yearly budget lines for support to smallholder women and youth farmers; reflecting on what should be prioritised especially in the 2025 budget based on realities on ground.

“National Agricultural Growth Scheme and Agro Pocket (NAGSAP) should be well funded and executed to address the input gaps experienced by smallholder farmers, especially women and youth,’’ he said.

Memedu tasked federal and state governments on more investment in agriculture to address the strategic areas of investment that would increase agriculture Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to at least six per cent.

He listed the strategic areas as extension services, access to credit by women and youth in agriculture and appropriate labour-saving technologies inputs.

Memedu said post-harvest losses reduction support such as processing and storage facilities, training and market access, Climate Resilient Sustainable Agriculture (CRSA), agroecology, research and development, monitoring and evaluation also needed attention.

The stakeholders, therefore, urged both the federal and state governments to ensure that the 2024 budget and subsequent budgets were gender sensitive.

It is experts` opinion that massive and expeditious funding is required for a turnaround in the agriculture sector.

They say that conscious and pragmatic budgeting and its effective implementation will go a long way in boosting food security. (NANFeatures)

**If used please credit the writer and News Agency of Nigeria.

By Rukayat Moisemhe
Consumer credit, particularly from licensed money lenders, is proving to be a game-changer for Nigeria’s Nano, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (NMSMEs).

While traditional banks often overlook this sector, these lenders are filling the gap by providing accessible and collateral-free loans.

This, according to industry players, has been instrumental to the current financial inclusion and entrepreneurship.

The Central Bank of Nigeria’s data underscores the growing significance of personal credit, with more than N3 trillion disbursed as at January 2024.

Licensed money lenders, under the purview of the Money Lenders Association (MLA), regulated by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), have played a pivotal role in this growth.

Their numbers have surged from about 100 in 2022 to nearly 300 in 2024, reflecting their increasing impact on the economy, as highlighted by experts and players.

They offer quick disbursements, flexible repayment terms and relatively affordable interest rates.

This has made them a preferred choice for many NMSMEs struggling to access traditional financing.

According to the World Bank, Money Lenders, including Digital Money Lenders (DML), have contributed to increasing financial inclusion in Nigeria, with 70 per cent of adults having access to financial services, up from 30 per cent in 2011.

However, these operators require regulation that combines a robust legal framework and technology with effective enforcement against illegal operators.

Mr Gbemi Adelekan, President of the Money Lenders Association of Nigeria (MLA), stated recently that licensed money lenders not only provide credit to artisans and micro-businesses, but also to previously financially excluded individuals across the country.

He emphasised the need for consequences for borrowers who fail to meet their loan commitments.

According to him, better protection for both lenders and borrowers could be achieved through comprehensive regulations and enforcement, ensuring a good credit structure in the economy.

“Money lenders have stepped in to fill the gap using technology and alternative data sources to support businesses, including Nano businesses, without collateral.

“However, we need government support in terms of recovery due to the high risk involved in supporting NMSMEs,” he said.

Adelekan noted that for money lenders in Nigeria to continue thriving, they must embrace digitalisation, develop risk management strategies and offer flexible repayment terms.

He added that lenders also have to build strategic partnerships for growth and support.

Mr Babatunde Akin-Moses, Managing Director of Sycamore, has also explained that the growth of the Fintech sector, especially the lending space, had improved funding access for NMSMEs.

He highlighted the increasing relevance of money lenders as go-to sources for small businesses and individuals who might not meet traditional financial institutions’ credit requirements.

Akin-Moses emphasised the need for a reliable and equitable credit system, calling for cooperation among stakeholders, lenders, borrowers and regulators to ensure a fair process for all.

He predicted that the next decade would involve rebuilding the inflationary economy and expanding growth.

“Capital will be needed for this, and the best providers for everyday individuals and small businesses will be money lenders.

“The process will be more efficient if lenders adopt technology, structured regulations are in place, and consequences for credit default are enforced,” he said.

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has been regulating the money lending ecosystem, shutting down illegal lenders who use unethical methods to harass customers.

Also, the money lenders association continues to educate the public on avoiding illegal loan apps, urging the government to support the industry’s survival, which appears promising with opportunities for sustainable growth, innovation and financial inclusion.

Meanwhile, many NMSMEs prefer these loan apps for their speedy execution, non-collateral funding, affordable interest rates and flexible repayment plans.

Mrs Oluwakemi Adebayo, an egg dealer, noted that quick loan disbursement had helped her business grow.

She said that even in cases of default, providers had been understanding of her business challenges.

Mr Babatunde Oguntayo, CEO of Bow Oil, said that the apps provide significant loans, sometimes up to N30 million.
He stressed that such opportunity was crucial given the lengthy processes with traditional banks.

Mr Jonathan Falola, CEO of Telematics Systems Ltd., urged NMSMEs to utilise these loan facilities to upscale their businesses. (NAN)

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

By Folasade Akpan, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

The International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD), which was held in Cairo, Egypt in 1994 with over 180 countries in attendance, adopted a Programme of Action (PoA) to promote human rights.

This was with special focus on reproductive health and rights, gender equality and empowerment, and population and development.

The aim was to steer global action towards the rapidly increasing world population and how to set a goal to ensure that in spite of the growth, development is people-oriented.

According to the PoA, valid, reliable, timely, culturally relevant and internationally comparable data form the basis for policy and programme development, implementation, monitoring and evaluation.

It, therefore, called for political commitment by all countries to understand the need for data collection on a regular basis and the analysis, dissemination and full utilisation of data.

It further said all countries, particularly developing ones, should cooperate with stakeholders to strengthen their national capacity to carry out sustained and comprehensive programmes on collection, analysis, dissemination and utilisation of population and development data.

“Particular attention should be given to the monitoring of population trends and the preparation of demographic projections’’, it said

It said attention should also be paid and to the monitoring of progress towards the attainment of health, education, gender, ethnic and social-equity goals and of service accessibility and quality of care, as stated in the present PoA.

Following this are four rounds of decennial (10 years) world population and housing census programmes conducted since 1994 for measuring population numbers and tracking growth over time.

The sequences are year 2000 round conducted between 1995 and 2004, 2010 round from 2005 to 2014 and the 2020 round from 2015 to 2024. The 2030 round is expected to be from 2025 to 2034.

Population and housing censuses are a principal means of collecting basic population and housing statistics, according to Statistics Division of the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs.

The essential features of population and housing censuses are individual enumeration, universality within a defined territory, simultaneity, defined periodicity and small-area statistics.

Nigeria conducted its last census in 2006. Going by the PoA Nigeria was ripe for another exercise in 2016.

However, its eight years later and a subsequent one should have been conducted going by the 10-year recommendation by the world bodies and agreements.

Nigeria has been planning its development activities and aiming to attain the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) using estimates from its 2006 census. What does this portend for the giant of Africa?

Prof. Sunday Adedini, an associate professor of demography at Federal University Oye-Ekiti, said that Nigeria’s population was estimated to be 218 million, ranking the 6th most populated country in the world.

According to him, population and housing data in Nigeria, in terms of recency, quantum, and quality, is worrisome.

“On the account of the obsolete nature and inadequacy of data, planning has often been based on estimations, projections, and speculations.

“For instance, our most recent census data is 18 years old and our most current population data is based on projections from the 2006 population and housing census.

“How successful can we be in our developmental aspirations when the implementation of our socio-economic agenda is not based on robust and timely data?” he asked.

Adedini also said that no data source could give reliable information on regional, ethnic, and socio-cultural diversities of the country and corresponding requisite planning for inclusive development.

He blamed irregular census in the country on politicisation of the census, failure to take census as a scientific exercise necessary for planning, insufficient political will to support data generation, and insufficient financing.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG), Dr Tayo Aduloju, said that the implications of not conducting a census in this long time were not limited to Nigeria alone but Africa as a whole.

He cited economic and trade implications, adding that Nigeria’s economic policies and trade agreements with other African nations depend on reliable demographic data.

“Inaccurate data can result in poor economic forecasts, affecting trade, investment, and regional economic growth.

“We also have migration and security. Nigeria’s population dynamics significantly influence migration patterns across West Africa.

“The lack of accurate data hinders the effective management of migration and refugee flows, contributing to regional instability.

“Also, Nigeria’s role as a major economic player in Africa makes its demographic data crucial for regional economic planning and integration efforts’’, he said.

Aduloju said Nigeria stood to lose international aid and support as donors and international organisations often base their support and aid on demographic data.

According to him, inaccurate or outdated data can lead to misallocation or reduction of aid because without credible data. Therefore without reliable data may miss out on financial support from international agencies and investors.

For him Nigeria is running out of time, but to recover lost ground, he advised that a date for the conduct of the exercise be set urgently and sufficient funds allocated.

He added that conducting extensive public awareness campaigns and engaging community leaders to ensure widespread participation would also suffice.

“Accurate census is important to harness demographic dividends and ensure inclusive development’’, says the Executive Director, United Nations Development Fund (UNFPA), Dr Natalia Kanem,

According to her, it is important to “count everyone because everyone counts.

“Moreover, for that mother who needs to register the birth for that statistic, and for the vital statistics issues, having population data is going to make it easier.

“Population is not just numbers, it is the people,” she said.

Dr Gifty Addico, Country Representative, UNFPA, said that timely censuses would provide the baseline data needed to track progress toward the SDGs.

“Our delay to generate timely inclusive data through the population and housing census and other exercises has masked the progress made. Timely population and housing census represents a critical opportunity.

“As we prepare to enter a new 2030 round of population and housing census era, we must ensure that our data generation exercises are prioritised and conducted timely and regularly’’, Addico said.

The Chairman, Association of the Advancement of Family Planning (AAFP), Dr Ejike Orji, said census data should drive decision making process.

“So that is why we are appealing that government should make sure this happens. If it doesn’t happen, we’re in trouble”, Orji said.

The Spokesperson, Population Advisory Group, Amb. Usman Sarki, urged the legislature to make a law making it mandatory for the country to execute population census every ten years.

In 2023, former President Muhammadu Buhari approved that the census should hold from May 3 to May 7.

It was however postponed with the expectation that a new date would be fixed by President Bola Tinubu.

Mr Isa Kwarra, Chairman of National Population Commission (NPC), said the way forward was for Nigeria and indeed Africa to strive to conduct regular censuses and surveys.

Kwarra said that conducting the census in alignment with the global schedule ensures that the nation’s demographic data is comparable with international datasets, positioning Nigeria for informed decision-making and global relevance.

“This alignment also enables us to leverage global best practices and expertise, ensuring a high-quality census that meets international standards.

“It is good to continue to re-echo this so that more Nigerians will see the relevance of conducting the census within this 2020 global census round”, he said.

He said that the commission was prepared to conduct the exercise but was awaiting the Tinubu’s approval.

“The 2020 round of census is ending this year. We will be making a hypothesis to make sure that we conduct the census before the 2020 round of census comes to an end.

“I want to believe that we will get it right, we are just waiting on the president to give us the date, and the commission is ever prepared to do it once we have a date declared by the President.

“The resources should be able to recruit extra hands to help us in conducting a very robust census that will provide inclusive data that is not just verifiable, but will be acceptable by all.

“If we start now, we can achieve it; at least the 2020 round of census gives us an opportunity to extend up to April 2025”, he said. (NANFeatures)

**If used please credit the writer and News Agency of Nigeria.

By Razak Owolabi, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

From July 17 to July 18, The Wheatbaker Hotel in Ikoyi, Lagos, was the epicenter of an inspiring and transformative programme.

Leaders and executives from diverse sectors, both public and private, convened for TEXEM UK’s customised executive development programme titled “Revitalise Your Organisation: Inspire Sustainable Growth in a Recovering Economy.”

This programme served as a beacon of knowledge, strategic insights, and practical tools designed to equip leaders with the skills necessary to navigate and thrive in a recovering economy.

The programme began with an insightful session on “Building the Foundation for Revitalization” led by Prof. Paul Griffith, the world’s first Professor of Management to lead a team to launch a rocket into space.

Griffith’s unique yet dynamic perspective and profound expertise set the stage for a transformative learning experience.

His session emphasized the importance of innovative thinking and strategic planning, laying a strong foundation for participants to revitalise their organisations effectively.

The second day continued with a powerful session on “Strategic Stakeholder Engagement” conducted by Dr. Alim Abubakre, Founder and Chair of TEXEM UK.

Abubakre’s deep understanding of stakeholder dynamics and engagement strategies provided participants with actionable insights to foster sustainable growth.

His session underscored the programme’s commitment to delivering rich and relevant content, reinforcing the strategic importance of stakeholder engagement in driving organisational success.

Throughout the two days, the programme covered a comprehensive range of topics, each designed to address critical aspects of leadership and organisational growth in a recovering economy.

These included cultivating a change-ready culture, the role of digital transformation in sustainable growth, navigating the complexity of a recovering economy, purposeful leadership, resilience and risk management, and leading through chaos.

Each topic was meticulously chosen to equip leaders with the tools and strategies needed to foster organisational agility and resilience.

Utilising a blend of interactive tools including games, group discussions, assessments, peer-to-peer learning, self-reflection, observation practice, case studies, and role play, participants engaged in immersive learning experiences.

The interactive methodology facilitated a deep understanding of the programme’s themes, allowing participants to apply the concepts learned to real-world scenarios.

The programme achieved its objectives of equipping leaders with strategies to revitalise their organisations.

It enhanced organisational agility, fostered resilience and adaptability, cultivated impactful leadership skills, encouraged fearless innovation, and developed strategic stakeholder engagement strategies.

Participants left the programme with renewed confidence and a robust toolkit to drive their organisations forward.

Testimonials from the delegates underscored the programme’s success.

Amina Yuguga, journalist and Group Head for Documentaries and Features for Media Trust Group, praised the summit as impactful and high-powered, highlighting the invaluable lessons on resilience and team management during economic downturns.

Sholabomi Shasore, an engineer and Permanent Secretary, Office of Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, Lagos State, found the sessions insightful and helpful, appreciating the clarity and simplicity of the concepts presented.

Martins Olajide Agbetu, another engineer and Asst. Gen. Manager Technical services and projects, Cakasa Nigeria Ltd also found the programme topics apt as it spoke on the contextual realities in Nigeria and how he intends to be more intentional about stakeholder engagements.

Highlights of the programme included vibrant networking sessions, group activities, role plays, group presentations, and engaging games.

These elements fostered a collaborative environment where participants could learn from each other and build lasting connections.

Speaking at the occasion, Abubakre said that at TEXEM UK, they believe that leaders are the catalysts for change in a recovering economy.

“This programme is a testament to our commitment to empower leaders with the knowledge, skills, and resilience to inspire sustainable growth.

“By embracing innovative strategies and engaging stakeholders effectively, leaders can turn challenges into opportunities and drive their organisations towards a brighter future,” he said.

TEXEM UK’s “Revitalise Your Organisation: Inspire Sustainable Growth in a Recovering Economy” has once again proven to be an unparalleled platform for executive development.

The success of this programme is a testament to TEXEM UK’s commitment to empowering leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to drive sustainable growth in today’s dynamic and recovering economic landscape. (NANFeatures)

**If used, please credit the writer as well as News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

By Tosin Kolade, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

In Nigeria, where youth unemployment rates are high, tap-to-earn games have attracted many as a potential source of income.

Since its launch on February 15, 2024, Tap swap has captured the attention of millions of users, especially in Nigeria.

Tapping the app’s central icon to mine coins has become a daily routine for many.

Viral videos show Nigerians, both young and old, constantly tapping their screens to earn coins. These coins can be converted to dollars when the token is launched.

For example, Joseph Adewale, a recent university graduate, turned to these games after struggling to find a job.

He spends several hours daily on his smartphone, earning small amounts of crypto currency.

Although he has made some money Adewale admits it is far from enough to fully support him.

However, the financial prospects of tap-to-earn games are not guaranteed. Success often depends on a combination of skill, time investment, and sometimes, upfront costs for in-game purchases.

While some players like Adewale have made modest gains, many others find the earnings to be insufficient, questioning the true potential of these games to deliver substantial wealth.

According to a report by Global Web Index, Nigeria had the highest number of addicted internet users in Africa in 2021, with the average user spending three hours and 42 minutes on social networks daily. South Africa is second.

In the same year, Nigeria ranked third globally, following the Philippines and Brazil.

Although gambling is regulated in Nigeria, there are still numerous grey areas regarding tap-to-earn games and casino operations that the government does not cover.

Industry analysts attribute the high accessibility and lack of regulations as causes for young individuals overspending in the digital gaming sector, leading to significant mental health disorders.

Put in context, Tap-to-earn games have rapidly evolved from simple entertainment to complex ecosystems promising real-world financial rewards.

These games often leverage block chain technology and crypto currency, allowing players to earn digital assets that can be converted into real money.

Enthusiasts argue that these games democratise earning opportunities, potentially making players richer through their game-play skills.

Beyond the finances, the addictive nature of tap-to-earn games has raised alarms, particularly regarding youth enthusiasts.

The constant drive to earn and the lure of potential wealth can lead to excessive screen time and gaming addiction.

For instance Favour Ekeh initially joined these games to make money but found herself neglecting her studies and social life as she became increasingly engrossed.

For unemployed Nigerian youths like Adewale and Ekeh, understanding these dynamics is essential to harness the benefits without falling into detrimental habits.

As tap-to-earn games continue to gain popularity, finding a balance between enjoying the potential financial benefits and avoiding the pitfalls of addiction is crucial.

Players, especially the younger ones, need to be educated about responsible gaming practices and the realistic expectations of earning from these games.

Dr Richard Enemaku, an expert in youth development says by educating young people about the risks and realities of tap-to-earn games, they could be helped to make informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls.

According to him, the introduction of comprehensive digital literacy programmes in schools and communities will help in that regard.

Enemaku underscored the importance of parental guidance in gaming activities, saying understanding the potential dangers and promoting healthy gaming habits is crucial in protecting the nation’s youth.

“The Nigerian government must step in with regulations to oversee tap-to-earn games.

“Ensuring these games are fair and transparent can protect players from exploitation.

“Players need to know what to expect to avoid false hopes and disappointment, clear communication about the realistic earning potential is essential”, he said.

He called for the enforcement of age restrictions and parental controls to prevent younger children from accessing potentially addictive games and safeguarding their well-being.

An IT security expert, Ms. Seun Johnson, said that developing programmes with alternative activities and job opportunities can keep youths engaged and reduce their reliance on these games.

She further said that counselling support services were needed for those struggling with game addiction.

“Investing in programmes that teach valuable digital and vocational skills provide young people with alternative earning avenues.

“Parents and guardians should use tools and apps to monitor gaming usage and enforce time limits, this can steer them away from an over reliance on tap-to-earn games”, she said.

Johnson also called for entrepreneurship support through resources to help youths start their own ventures.

By so doing, she said, appeal of these games as a primary income source would be reduced while also fostering innovation and self-sufficiency.

Similarly, understanding end-user responsibilities is crucial in mitigating the risks of tap-to-earn game addiction.

According to Dr Noimot Abdullahi, a counsellor specialising in addiction, young people should establish time limits for gaming activities and prioritise their school and family obligations.

Abdullahi said the importance of engaging in other hobbies and physical activities to maintain a healthy balance.

“It is also essential for youths to be aware of the potential risks and realistic earnings from these games.

“Seeking support from family, friends, or professional counselors can significantly help those struggling with addiction”, she said.

She also said that by raising awareness and promoting responsible gaming practices, Nigerians would be empowered to enjoy their digital interests without succumbing to harmful habits.

Experts believe game developers should practice responsible design, adopting ethical practices that minimise addictive elements and promote balanced game-play.

They say implementing these measures can mitigate the risks of tap-to-earn games and create a safer environment for young Nigerians to explore their digital interests responsibly. (NANFeatures)

**If used please credit the writer and News Agency of Nigeria.

By Ijeoma Olorunfemi, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Space treaty, associated with the rules, principles, standards of international law, contained in international treaties, principles governing the outer space was developed by the UN.

The treaty approved by the UN in December 1966 followed a submission of separate drafts of outer space treaties to the UN General Assembly in June same year by the U.S. and now defunct Soviet Union provides the framework for the International Space Law.

The International Space Law under auspices of UN Office for Outer Space Affairs (OOSA)  is the: “ Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, including the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies.

It stipulates that “there is no claim for sovereignty in space, no nation can own space, the moon or any other body.

“ Weapons of mass destruction are forbidden in orbit and beyond, and the Moon, the planets, and other celestial bodies can only be used for peaceful purposes.“

Nations engaging in space activities have also adopted their national legislation to oversee their space activities.

These activities range from addressing issues on preservation of the space and Earth environment, liability for damages caused by space objects, rescue of astronauts, use of space-related technologies and international cooperation.

The OOSA provides information and advice, upon request to governments, non-governmental organisations and the public on space law.

This is aimed at promote understanding, acceptance and respect for the international space law provisions.

In domesticating space programme in Africa, the UN African Regional Centre for Space Science and Technology Education in English (UN-ARCSSTEE), domicile in Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, was established in I998.

It is saddled with the responsibility of increasing indigenous capability in space science and technology applications.

The applications became evident through education and training at the post-graduate level in core disciplines such as Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System, Satellite Communications, Satellite Meteorology and Global Climate, Basic Space and Atmospheric Science.

Dr Nester Olusoji, Assistant Director, Legal Department, UN-ARCSSTEE, said the realisation of the value of space law at national, regional and supranational levels, prompted OOSA to introduce space law as a basic course in 2014.

“By 2014, OAU became the first university in Nigeria to participate in the Manfred Lachs Moot competition, and got to the semi-final stage, hence motivating other universities.

“Today, the law faculty OAU is recognised internationally for its capacity in the research and training in space law at both the undergraduate and post-graduate levels’’, Olusoji said.

Whilst clarifying on Nigeria’s capacity to practice this area of law, Olusoji confirmed Nigeria has numerous experts in the field of space law, ranging from academia to government establishments and to private practitioners.

Mr Mujahid Indabawa, Assistant Director, Legal and Space Regulation Services, National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), identified space law as an international law, but unconventional area practiced mainly by developed countries and few developing ones.

Indabawa said Nigeria has the legal backing to practice space law because it encompasses the practice of procuring a satellite, launching into the orbit and its operationalization.

“Nigeria is a signatory to the Outer Space Treaty, which is the framework for space law, consisting of its grand norms, laws and constitution.

“We derive every space revelation, law or theory from the Outer Space Treaty. It regulates production, procurement, deployment of satellites, and regulates how to operate the satellite.

“This is overseen by a body called the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS), under the United Nations, domiciled in Vienna, Austria.

“We also have the Liability Convention; the Moon Treaty, an agreement governing the activities of States on the Moon and Other Celestial bodies, Rescue of Astronauts Agreement and the Registration Convention.

“Whenever a country is a signatory to one of these treaties, then you can say it is practicing space law since it is international in nature’’, he said.

He further said that the National Space Act also empowers Nigeria to venture into space law, hence the NASRDA Act of 2010.

Indabawa said that the Nigerian educational curriculum needs to be evolve because there were emerging areas yet to be incorporated into the schools’ curriculum.

“The way forward is introducing space law in our universities; the government needs to do more to encourage this.

“We can bring in space law in modules because it can expose our students, it will bring Nigerians on the international map of international law practice,’’ he said.

He recalled that space economy was projected in 2020 to be a five billion dollars economy, adding that it surpassed the projection and earned over 50 billion dollars.

“This is an emerging sector that commercial companies are venturing into, it is no longer a government affair.

“The sector is now fully dominated by private companies, thus the need for more engineers, scientists, administrators and lawyers, because you cannot have a company without a lawyer.

With less than 20 space lawyers in Nigeria, Indabawa encouraged the youths to consider building a career in space law, becauseit is in high demand and space economy is lucrative.

Mr Collins Okeke, Associate Partner and Head, Space Law Practice Group of Olisa Agbakoba Legal (OAL) firm, said the firm pioneered and delved into space law due to its growing global importance and opportunities.

Okeke explained that as Nigeria develops its space programme and satellite capabilities there was increasing need for legal expertise in the area.

However, he worries about minimal awareness of space law among undergraduate students and the public, with about less than one per cent of lawyers in the country involved in space law.

He, however, acknowledged that said awareness was slowly growing as Nigeria’s space activities increase and global space exploration and commercialisation gain more attention.

“The number is growing, but very slowly. As Nigeria’s space activities expand and as global space law becomes more relevant to Nigerian interests, more lawyers will begin to explore this area.

“The root cause of growth includes increased Nigerian space activities, emerging commercial opportunities, the growing global importance of space law, and opportunities for specialization.

“The Nigerian legal ecosystem is in the early stages of readiness for space law practice and while there’s growing potential, the infrastructure, expertise, and demand are still developing.

“Nigeria has a National Space Policy, a principal legislation, the NASRDA Act, a space agency and satellite programmes.

“All of these provide a foundation, but the market for space law services is still emerging and it will take time for the ecosystem to fully mature and support a robust space law practice’’, he said.

Okeke said that space law has a growing relevance, a correlation with telecommunications, Earth Observation and national security.

He said there should be increased education and awareness about space law in law schools and the legal community.

“There should be development of a more robust National Space Policy and legal framework, encouraging international cooperation and participation in space-related treaties, and creating opportunities for lawyers to specialise in this field’’, he said.

The legal expert said that as Nigeria continued to develop its space programme, the importance of space law was likely to grow, presenting both challenges and opportunities for the legal profession.

Dr Anne Agi, a space law lecturer at the University of Calabar, said while some people think that space is abstract, the life of a human revolved around space technology.

Agi affirmed that opportunities were opening up around space technology, the ecosystem evolving and making it the suitable time for interested parties to equip themselves.

“Most thoughts about space science technology were at some point speculations until proven to be true, scientists, the private sector across the globe are engaging.

“People are engaging with writing papers, making arguments, having conferences, seminars, all to understand space science and the more we rub minds, go for moot courts competitions, the benefits will come’’, he said.

Agi recognised that few universities in the country offered courses in space science-related disciplines such as Space Law, Astronomy, Space Engineering, Remote Sensing, Geoinformation application.

It is obvious that with the growing interests globally about space science and technology, areas such as space law that are connected to it will keep emerging as alternatives for career diversification. (NANFeatures)

**If used please credit the writer and News Agency of Nigeria.