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USAID funding freeze and Nigeria’s buffer measures
Features

USAID funding freeze and Nigeria’s buffer measures

By Chijioke Okoronkwo, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

On the first day of his second term, President Donald Trump accentuated his protectionist leaning by signing a flurry of executive orders affecting a wide range of issues including U.S. foreign aids.

In his “America First’’ stance, Trump signed Executive Order 14169, titled “Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid”, imposing a 90-day pause on foreign aid pending review of all the programmes.

Trump’s actions, no doubt, are causing provision and supply chain disruptions as countries adjust to the shock even as some unleash counter measures on the U.S.

Of particular concern to Nigerians and some global solutionists is the freeze on U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) which intervenes in clean water, HIV/AIDS treatments, disaster management, migration, energy security, anti-corruption as well as women’s health in conflict zones.

Trump had, also, via an executive order, announced U.S. withdrawal from the World Health Organisation(WHO).

Against the unfolding backlashes, U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, provided a bulwark.

Rubio said the U.S. had continued to provide foreign aid after USAID had its programmes frozen pending a review.

“I am not against foreign aid; I have supported foreign aid; we are going to do foreign aid.’’

Rubio, who spoke with Catherine Herridge for X, said he had no regrets about USAID and argued that some programmes “should not have ever existed.”

Note, the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) is the world’s leading HIV initiative.

Perceptive stakeholders in Nigeria are also worried about the U.S. PEPFAR programme which currently covers close to 90 per cent of the treatment for HIV patients.

Rubio had also announced an “emergency humanitarian waiver” allowing PEPFAR to continue providing life-saving HIV medications to low-income countries.

Available data indicates that in 2023, USAID committed 1 billion dollars to Nigeria, while in 2024, it allocated 780 million dollars–health remains a focal point of USAID’s operations in Nigeria.

Regrettably, all overseas missions for USAID had been ordered to shut down while members of staff were being recalled.

“All USAID direct hire personnel, except designated personnel responsible for mission-critical functions, core leadership, and/or specially designated programs, will be placed on administrative leave globally.

“Concurrently, USAID is beginning to implement a Reduction-in-Force that will affect approximately 1,600 USAID personnel with duty stations in the United States,” USAID said.

Nonetheless, the Federal Government is rallying to bridge the USAID funding gap by fortifying ongoing health sector reforms.

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, said that Nigeria anticipated a decline in global financial aid and is actively working towards bolstering its health system by leveraging domestic resources.

Pate highlighted that the decline was expected even before the U.S. Govt. publicly announced cuts to funding for agencies supporting developing countries.

Regardless of the obstacles, Pate expressed heartfelt gratitude to the U.S. government for its extensive and generous support over the years, acknowledging the positive impact on Nigeria’s healthcare system.

“For the past two decades, many countries worldwide have benefited from lifesaving interventions, particularly in HIV, tuberculosis and malaria, thanks to the generosity of the U.S. Government and its people.

“For Nigeria, we sincerely appreciate all the support received.

“However, it is unwise for any country to rely entirely on another for the health and lives of its population,” he said.

Pate reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to prioritising health, noting that the country had made significant advancements in the healthcare sector.

He emphasised the government’s determination to improve the well-being of citizens, and that the cuts in aid were understandable, given the U.S. government’s current interests.

“Here in Nigeria, we are focused on rebuilding our health system, strengthening domestic resources, and providing services for our citizens.

“We aim to cooperate with other countries in Africa and globally to enhance biosecurity and health security while fostering private-sector investments.’’

The minister said that Nigeria had approved the ratification of the African Medicines Agency Treaty, which would help Nigeria become part of a larger African market for locally produced medicines.

He said there were investment opportunities in Nigeria’s health sector and invited American partners to participate.

“We have innovations, tools, systems, and technologies that we can trade.

“We are open and confident that, as the direction of the U.S. Government evolves, Nigeria will continue to welcome genuine partnerships with the U.S. and other countries.

“These partnerships should be focused on advancing humanity while respecting each nation’s interests,” Pate said.

Sharing similar sentiments, Dr Iziaq Salako, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, said the U.S. Government’s announcement to halt donations for HIV treatment in developing nations was a wake-up call for self-independence.

Salako said the government would identify avenues to raise domestic and alternative funds.

“I believe that it is a wake-up call for us to strategise and think the way we do things and ensure that we also are able to exert ourselves and create some level of independence within our system.

“To that extent, a series of meetings have been convened, and there is an ongoing discussion with United Nations bodies, WHO, UNDP and others that work within the health space so that we can also harvest their opinion.

“We are also looking at other avenues to raise domestic and alternative revenue.

“For example, our HIV programme is heavily supported by the U.S. Government; we are looking at crowd funding to support that in addition to the government making available more funding.”

The minister expressed optimism that the U.S. Government would continue to play its role in the global community.

“I must say that the world is a global village and what happens in one country easily affects the other country.

“America cannot operate in isolation, just like Nigeria cannot operate in isolation, or any other country of the world, for that matter.

“So, I believe that reason will prevail and the American government will continue to play the role it ought to play within the global community,” he said.

In the prevailing context, experts say Nigerians must look inwards and become more innovative.

Dr Ejike Oji, Chairman, Association for the Advancement of Family Planning in Nigeria (AAFP), weighed in.

Oji said there was no better time for the Nigerian health sector to be imaginative.

He advised Nigerians to be innovative, self-sustaining and reliant in terms of medical interventions.

According to him, there is a need for Nigerians to brace up for alternatives.

“By this I mean, we should be substantive with what we have.

”This is the time for our people to be innovative and self-sustaining in order to meet up with our financial demands rather than relying on international donors.

”We need to be self-sustaining now rather than depending on international donors, because many of these donors will withdraw their support as a result of America’s withdrawal,” he said.

More so, Ijeoma Nwankwo, a Pharmacist, and Senior Programme Officer for the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria Foundation (PSNF), said that the impact would be most severe for underserved communities.

“Many Patent and Proprietary Medicine Vendors (PPMVs) working in hard-to-reach areas depend on this funding to provide services.

“With donor cuts, those free services will either shrink or disappear entirely,” she said.

Nwankwo, a leading advocate in reproductive health, said that the shift was particularly troubling because over 60 per cent of Nigerian women already accessed family planning through private providers.

Nwankwo suggested integrating family planning into Nigeria’s health insurance schemes.

“Lagos State, with its relatively robust insurance programme (LASHMA), is already exploring ways to cover family planning services under its health insurance plan.

“If successful, this model could be replicated nationwide,” she said.

She said technology would play a pivotal role in bridging the gap.

Dr Stanley Ilechukwu, a Community Advocate, called for a strategic shift in investment by prioritising state and community-level funding over-reliance on federal allocations or international donors.

Ilechukwu said that investing at least N1 million per Primary Healthcare Center (PHC) to strengthen its capacity to provide essential reproductive health services was a possible solution.

“This level of investment would go a long way in supporting PHCs to sustain family planning services,” he said.

Deserving no less attention, Dr Stanley Ukpai, Director of Projects at dRPC, called for a fundamental shift in strategy.

“Our advocacy messaging has to change; now that we are in a crisis, we need bold and urgent solutions,” he said.

He said that without immediate intervention, millions of Nigerian women may find themselves without the reproductive healthcare they need, further deepening the country’s maternal health crisis.

As the U.S. judicial system scrambles to intercept Trump’s blitz on USAID, discerning stakeholders say Nigeria must activate effective buffer measures to avert any crisis that may result from the funding hiatus. (NANFeatures)

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

Rebased CPI: New era for Nigeria’s inflation tracking
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Rebased CPI: New era for Nigeria’s inflation tracking

By Okeoghene Akubuike, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

The current inflationary trends and economic indicators further buttress the imperative of rebasing Nigeria’s Consumer Price Index (CPI).

CPI is a statistical measure that tracks the weighted average of prices of a basket of goods and services consumed by households.

It is a widely used indicator of inflation, which measures the rate of change in prices of goods and services over time in an economy.

The year-on-year percentage change in the CPI is referred to as the headline inflation rate, which is computed and reported monthly by the National Bureau of Statistics(NBS) in Nigeria.

Different indices make up the CPI framework, which includes the Urban and Rural National Index, Headline Index, Food Index, Core Index, All Items Less Farm Produce Index, Farm Produce Index, Goods Index, Services Index and Energy Index.

Experts say, the CPI is supposed to be rebased every five years due to changes in consumption patterns of households and firms within the economy.

Rebasing also involves bringing the base year closer to the current period to which current prices are being compared to arrive at the CPI.

This is to ensure that the CPI reflects the current inflationary pressure of an economy.

Regrettably, this routine exercise done every five years by National Statistical Offices across the world was last done over 10 years ago in Nigeria.

The NBS has been using 2009 as the base year to arrive at the CPI for Nigeria.

Nonetheless, the NBS recently conducted the long overdue rebasing.

The rebased CPI results were presented to the public on Feb. 18 by the Statistician-General (SG) of the Federation and Chief Executive Officer of the NBS, Prince Adeyemi Adeniran.

Adeniran said the rebasing was designed to ensure that Nigeria’s economic indicators accurately reflected the current structure of the economy, incorporating new and emerging sectors, updating consumption baskets and refining data collection methods.

The statistician-general gave a background of the rebased CPI.

“As we all know, the economy of any society or country is dynamic.

“Over time, with innovation, development, globalisation and changes in the production and consumption pattern of goods and services within the borders of a nation, the structure and size of the economy begin to change.

“This change in the consumer pattern equally leads to a change in the general composition of the basket of items which is used to measure the average change in price levels in the economy.

“Given all these, it is necessary to move the base year to which the CPI index is measured to a year much closer to the current period.

“It is this process that is commonly referred to as rebasing.”

Adeniran said that the rebased process also allowed statistical offices to introduce methodological enhancements to their computation procedures that align with global best practices.

Some of the improvements by the NBS to the rebased CPI include the transition to the latest version of the classification method.

The Classification of Individual Consumption According to Purpose (COICOP) 2018 version was introduced, moving away from the 1999 version of COICOP.

The new version now consists of 13 divisions, an increase from the previous 12 divisions used before the rebasing.

This update introduces a category for household expenditure on “Insurance and Financial Services,” which accounts for 0.5 per cent of the total household expenditure.

The updated CPI now includes 934 product varieties, an increase from 740 varieties before the rebasing.

Another important improvement is the exclusion of own-production, imputed rents and gifted items from the aggregates used to come up with the weights.

Adeniran said CPI was a monetary phenomenon; hence the computations should only include monetary expenditure.

Also implemented under this rebasing is the movement of expenditures on “meals away from home” to the appropriate divisional class which is now under “Restaurants.”

The bureau also introduced special inflation indices in the rebased CPI report, which include the Farm Produce Index, Energy Index, Services Index, Goods Index and Imported Food Index.

In summary, the weight reference period is now 2023 and the price reference period (Base Year) is 2024, with the updated CPI covering 934 product varieties classified into 13 divisions under the COICOP 2018 framework.

On the methodology used for the rebasing, Adeniran said data was collected through structured questionnaires, interviews and secondary sources like the Central Bank of Nigeria(CBN) and the National Insurance Commission.

The statistician-general said to ensure data quality, fieldwork was conducted using Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing devices, with close supervision and real-time data transmission to the NBS server.

“The NBS ensured the process was rigorous, comprehensive and inclusive, engaging stakeholders through at least nine different stakeholder engagements in Abuja and Lagos.

“These sessions provided valuable inputs, contributions, and suggestions, while also allowing the NBS to clarify misconceptions and address grey areas in the rebasing process.”

The NBS announced the rebased CPI results, which showed the All-Items Index, which is used to measure headline inflation for January 2025, at 110.7, resulting in a headline inflation rate of 24.48 per cent on a year-on-year basis.

What this means, according to economic analysts, is that the general prices of goods and services in Nigeria increased by 24.48 per cent compared to the January 2024 headline index of 88.9 per cent, which resulted in an inflation rate of 29.90 per cent.

The NBS said the increase was mainly driven by Food and Non-alcoholic Beverages, Restaurants and Accommodation Services and Transport.

Adeniran clarified that the rebased CPI results did not indicate a reduction in the prices of goods and services in the market but rather measure the rate at which those prices were decreasing.

He said that the Federal Government’s policies aimed at reducing the inflation rate were still in effect, as the government remains committed to ensuring food availability for the population and enhancing citizens’ purchasing power.

Before the release of the rebased CPI, there was a consensus by analysts that the overall inflation rate would decrease below the December 2024 rate of 34.8 per cent, which would affect monetary policy decisions.

This was reflected in the decision by the CBN during its first Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting for 2025 to maintain the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) at 27.59 per cent.

The CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, cited the new rebased CPI figures as one of the reasons the committee arrived at the decision to retain the MPR, stating that the new base year for the CPI and the reconstituted consumption basket represent the current economic realities.

Cardoso noted that food inflation remained a concern; however, as the government works to enhance food security in producing communities, along with other measures to increase food supply, food prices were expected to continue moderating.

Some economists have praised the rebasing exercise; however, they continue to urge the Federal Government to tackle inflation, particularly regarding food prices.

Prof. Uche Uwaleke, Professor of Finance and Capital Market at the Nasarawa State University, said the new inflation figures reflected the current inflationary pressure because the base year was brought closer to 2024.

Uwaleke, however, emphasised that the key to addressing inflation was for the government to tackle food and transportation costs because the pressure from those sectors persists, as evidenced by their significant weight in the COICOP 2018 framework of the rebased CPI.

“If the government can reduce the cost of transportation significantly, especially the pump price of fuel and fix infrastructure, that will go a long way to bring inflation down,” he said.

Dr Paul Alaje, Chief Economist at SPM Professionals, also said that the rebasing of the CPI was a positive step, especially considering that the Nigerian economy was entering a new era.

“We may never be able to reverse inflation trends if we continue with the old narrative but that does not mean the prices of goods in the market have come down.

“Perhaps investors will have confidence when they see the new inflation figures and we need this as a county,” he said.

The NBS says it is upbeat that the rebased CPI has produced estimates that not only reflect the prevailing inflationary pressure in the economy but also the current consumption pattern of households and consumers in Nigeria.

It says the latest outcomes will help ensure accurate price tracking across different sectors and regions and inform effective policy formulation for the development of the Nigerian economy. (NANFeatures) (www.nannews.ng)

Lagos: Celebrating excellence in nursing
Features

Lagos: Celebrating excellence in nursing

By Cecilia Ologunagba, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

When the Federal Executive Council approved the National Policy on Health Workforce Migration, it was welcomed with excitement by many Nigerians.

The new policy, which was unveiled by the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate, aims to address the japa syndrome among healthcare professionals and build a spirited and well-incentivised healthcare system.

“The National Policy on Health Workforce Migration is a comprehensive strategy to manage and reverse the migration of healthcare professionals.

“It aims to create a robust healthcare system where workers are well-supported and adequately rewarded and optimally utilised to meet the healthcare needs of all Nigerians.

“Central to this vision is the Nigeria Human Health Resource Program, which sets a framework for regular reviews of working conditions, ensuring that health workers, especially in rural areas, receive the recognition and rewards they deserve,” Pate said.

Worthy of note, the Federal Government has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO), Canada, to train Nigerian nurses on the best practice guidelines of the profession.

With the tag, “Best Practice Spotlight Organisation (BPSO)”, the “training the trainers” programme is aimed at providing a structured pathway to adopt and implement best practice guidelines.

Ms Daju Kachollom, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, said that with the training, nurses would be equipped to deliver evidence-based, culturally sensitive and patient-centered care.

Kachollom said that the approach would undoubtedly contribute to the realisation of the minister’s four-point health agenda and global sustainable goals.

“Nigeria is the first country in Africa to identify with RNAO, becoming the first BPSO designated host.

“This, for us, is remarkable as we recognise the place of nurses to achieve the mandate of the Nigeria healthcare system.

“As the ministry emphasises on improving the population health outcomes and unlocking healthcare value chains, the Nigerian BPSO initiative is a step forward in fostering a healthcare system that prioritises the highest standards of care,” Kachollom said.

She added that the training was a critical component of the ministry’s ongoing efforts to enhance the skills and expertise of nurses and other healthcare workers, equipping them with the tools needed to meet the evolving challenges in healthcare delivery.

Policy analysts hold that the National Policy on Health Workforce Migration, which will be cascaded to the grassroots, should give premium to the celebration of retiring medical professionals who had left exceptional footprints.

They say those, who in spite of brighter prospects in other climes, stayed back and contributed their quota to the growth of Nigeria’s healthcare sector, should be celebrated.

The tone was set recently in Lagos State.

Hundreds of nurses, family members, and friends recently gathered at the General Hospital Ifako Ijaiye, Lagos State, to celebrate the retirement of Chief Nursing Officer Mrs Folasade Okare, marking her 35 years of dedicated service and her 60th birthday.

Okare’s retirement was celebrated not only for her years of service but for the indelible mark she left on her colleagues and the nursing profession.

Over the years, Okare has become a role model for young nurses, and her passion and commitment to the profession have been widely recognised.

The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) presented her with a Retirement Award on February 11, acknowledging her dedication to the nursing field.

This recognition added to other accolades she has received, including the Best Worker Merit Award (Senior Category) in 2024 from the Chief Executive Officer of General Hospital Ifako Ijaiye, Dr Bamidele Mustapha, and the Long Service Merit Award from the Lagos State Government in 2021.

At a reception organised in Okare’s honour, Mrs Olufumilayo Ojo, the Apex Nurse of GHII, encouraged other nurses to emulate Okare’s exemplary work ethic.

“The battle is on you; you need to do it as she has left it for you to continue the good job she has done,” Ojo said.

Dr Wemimo Hally, a Principal Medical Officer at the hospital, described Okare as a dedicated, firm, and meticulous professional, noting her calm demeanour in spite of her unwavering commitment to excellence.

The event was graced by several dignitaries, including the Executive Chairman of Ifako Ijaiye Local Government, Mr Usman Hamzat and the Vice Chairman, Mrs Oluwatoyin Akererele.

Family members also lauded Okare for her dedication, emphasising the lasting impact she has had on the healthcare system and on the lives of those around her.

“Aunty Sade is indeed very motherly to all of us. She is a role model to every single one of us,” said Gboyega Adejuwon, a cousin to Okare.

Okare, visibly moved by the celebration, expressed her gratitude to her colleagues, family and friends.

“Nursing has not just been a job for me, I’ve gained a family along the way, and I couldn’t have asked for better people to share this journey with.”

Her children, Damilola and Ayo, shared their pride and admiration for their mother’s dedication.

Chief Nursing Officer Folasade  Okare poses with her husband and two children as General Hospital Ifako Ijaiye (GHII) celebrates her 35 years meritorious retirement and 60th birthday) credit: Daramola Oluwafernmi  Black_Chicagofilms

“I am just so proud of my mum; you can tell by the hundreds of people gathered here today that she is loved,” said Damilola.

Her daughter Ayo, who was especially touched by the celebration, added, “The way her colleagues have praised her, danced with her, and even cried today really shows how much of an impact she made in people’s lives.”

Okare’ passion for nursing began her early life.

After completing her basic nursing education at Ondo State School of Nursing in Akure, she pursued a specialisation in midwifery at Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex, where she trained from 1988 to 1989.

Upon becoming a Registered Nurse and Midwife, she began her professional career at General Hospital Ikere Ekiti in 1990.

Over the next decades, Okare worked across various healthcare institutions in Lagos, including Onikan Health Centre, Lagos Island Maternity Hospital, Orile Agege General Hospital, and Gbagada General Hospital.

In 2017, she joined General Hospital Ifako Ijaiye, where she worked until her retirement.

Throughout her career, Okare rose to the position of Chief Nursing Officer, driven by her deep passion for patient care and her unwavering commitment to the nursing profession.

“If there’s one thing about Sade, she is committed; she is reliable,” said her husband, Mr Fidelis Okare.

In spite of the challenges in the healthcare system, Okare remained dedicated to her work and persevered.

As she retires at the age of 60 after a remarkable 35-year career, Okare leaves behind a legacy of excellence, compassion, and a commitment to mentoring the next generation of nurses.

“I see my achievements and challenges as resources to mentor younger professionals,” Okare said.

She pledged to continue offering volunteer nursing care to the elderly and sick in her retirement.

By many accounts, Okare’s legacy will inspire future nurses and her contributions to the healthcare system will not be forgotten. (NANFeatures)

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

Addressing recurring vandalism, attacks in Oyo State schools
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Addressing recurring vandalism, attacks in Oyo State schools

 

By Ibukun Emiola, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

 

The recurring incidents of vandalism and attacks in schools have triggered concerns from stakeholders in Oyo State.

 

The situation is also eliciting response from the Oyo State Government and relevant authorities.

 

Mrs Omotoni Adedeji (not her real name), a teacher in a public secondary school located in a densely populated area of Ibadan metropolis, recounts her experience.

 

“Some days to the resumption of a new term, I went to the school where I teach to prepare for the 2024/2025 academic session but was accosted in the school premises by miscreants who nearly robbed me of my belongings in broad daylight.

 

“I took to disguise; pretending to be making a phone call to the police to report the activities in the school; that was how I escaped,” she said.

 

She said the act made the miscreants disperse quickly thinking she was one of men of the force sent to turn them in.

 

The school, located along the road in Oke-Ado area, has both normal and special students attending.

 

It has been severely damaged by the actions of miscreants and hoodlums who have removed the roofing sheets of two 6 blocks of classrooms; they also removed the roofing planks of another building causing a total dilapidation of the structures in quick succession.

 

A visit to the school showed  negligence of the school environment and porosity making it easy for anyone to gain entrance at any time despite having a day guard.

 

A block of classrooms de-roofed by miscreants at IMG Grammar School, Ibadan

 

Another teacher, who identified herself as Mrs Olanrewaju, said it was like a joke losing many structures in the school in days.

 

She said it had negative effects on teaching and learning as teaching aids such as computers and other assets that would benefit special students had been stolen.

 

A check at the teachers’ staff room, which also served as a library, showed the artificial manhole created by the thieves to steal vital assets of the school including electricity cables and iron windows and doors.

 

“Our school is very porous; we have almost eight entrances to this school because of a dilapidated perimeter fence.

 

“If you look around you will see that thieves in the neighborhood have stolen most of the materials used for building our structures.

 

“If the government wants to do something, it will think twice because of the insecurity; this is worse with our primary school.

 

“If you go to the primary school which is solely a special school, all the things put in place to aid teaching and learning have been stolen.’’

 

Roofing sheets of a block of 6 classrooms were removed by miscreants at IMG Grammar School, Sharp Corner

 

Olanrewaju said that the lack of night guards was one of the challenges the school had been dealing with.

 

She said that if the government should employ only one night guard as it promised, the problem would persist as one personnel would not be sufficient to deal with the issue.

 

“We need the presence of security guards both day and night in the school to ward off these miscreants,” she said.

 

Similarly, in a primary school in the Oniyanrin area and another one at Aresa, Oke-Ado, the same situation was recorded.

 

Aside from vandalism, miscreants posed a security threat to teachers, especially the female teachers in the school.

 

Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Salihu Adelabu, said the state had been trying its best to provide infrastructure for schools

 

“In the area of infrastructure, we are doing our best; we have model schools being built and UBEC interventions are helping in addressing this issue” he said.

 

On his part, the Executive Director, Dr Nureni Adeniran, Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board, disclosed that the Gov. Seyi Makinde’s Government had paid N2.5 billion as counterpart fund for the 2022 and 2023 UBEC/SUBEB intervention projects.

 

According to him, it will enable basic schools and junior secondary schools to continue enjoying unhindered infrastructural development.

 

More so, the Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT), Mr Raji Oladimeji, said it was imperative to beef up security in schools in the state.

 

According to him, schools have been the object of vandalism and attack as valuable assets for teaching and learning are been stolen non-stop including statutory records.

 

He said it had been a continuous incident happening on a daily basis for a long time now.

 

The NUT boss said the body would work to put measures in place to curb the negative activities hampering the smooth running of education in the state.

 

“The vandalism is actually affecting developmental projects in our schools in terms of infrastructural development.

 

“There are some schools where the computer and the power system have been taken away.

 

“There are some schools where doors have been broken, louvres removed and other things.

 

“So, these kinds of attack on our schools have been hindering quality teaching and learning in public schools.’’

 

According to him, there are three cases that have been reported to the police and the suspects were charged to court.

 

“There was a particular incident around Molete axis where one of our public schools was totally ransacked; so, we reported the case at the Orita Challenge police station.

 

“The DPO tried his best and they made arrest; and I want to tell you that as we are talking, those hoodlums that were arrested are in court.

 

“And, you know, it is subject to a matter of litigation because it is still a process that is ongoing.’’

 

Speaking on measures to curb the menace, Oladimeji said the union had reported the issue to the state government, emphasising the need for security in schools.

 

“Also, we met with the Parent Teachers Forum in some of the places that we identified this issue of attack and vandalism.

 

“And I want to tell you that they are doing their best to make sure that fortify a kind of security in their local areas where these schools are located.

 

“At present, a total of 2500 day guards had also been appointed as part of the recruitment exercise of teachers– teaching and non-teaching staff.

 

“I want to tell you that from next week, posting of the non-teaching, especially the day guards, will also be done in Oyo State; these guards will man the schools,” he said.

 

He said that the union also had a memorandum of understanding with some security organisations in the state to stop vandalism and attack on schools in two of the red zones in Ibadan– Molete and Orita Aperin.

 

The NUT chairman appreciated security agencies like DSS and the Western Zone Security ‘Amotekun’ who were gathering intelligence and doing their best to curb these attacks.

 

What’s more,  education enthusiasts have called on the Oyo State Commissioner for Education to champion the formulation of an Education Sector Plan to address infrastructural challenges.

 

Mr Yemi Osanyin, an education enthusiast, stressed the need for a holistic document that would address the current infrastructural challenges with inclusivity and accessibility at the core of the policies.

 

It is stakeholders’ view that all hands must be on deck to curb vandalism and guarantee safe school environment in Oyo State.(NANfeatures)

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

10th National Assembly and the state creation jinx
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10th National Assembly and the state creation jinx

By ‘Wale Sadeeq, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

The House of Representatives, on February 6, stirred the hornet’s nest on the contentious issue of state creation with the announcement that it had received proposals for creation of 31 new states.

This development once again brings to the fore the long-standing discussions on the challenges of creating states in Nigeria, a process that has been a subject of legislative deliberations since the country gained independence in 1960.

Presiding over the plenary, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu disclosed that the House Committee on Constitution Review had received proposals for the creation of additional states, which, if approved, would increase Nigeria’s total number of states from 36 to 67.

According to Kalu, who read out the proposals during the plenary, the new states under consideration include six from the North-Central, four from the North-East, five from the North-West, five from the South-South, and seven from the South-West.

More specifically, the proposed states are Okun, Okura, and Confluence (from Kogi), Benue Ala and Apa (from Benue), FCT State, Amana (from Adamawa), Katagum (from Bauchi), Savannah (from Borno), Muri (from Taraba), New Kaduna and Gurara (from Kaduna).

They include Tiga and Ari (from Kano), Kainji (from Kebbi), Etiti and Orashi (from the South-East), Adada (from Enugu), and Orlu and Aba.

Others are Ogoja (from Cross River), Warri (from Delta), Ori and Obolo (from Rivers), Torumbe (from Ondo), Ibadan (from Oyo), Lagoon (from Lagos), Ogun and Ijebu (from Ogun), and Oke Ogun/Ijesha (from Oyo/Ogun/Osun States).

Subsequently, the House Committee on Constitution Review issued a notice, signed by Kalu in his capacity as committee chairman, directing proponents of the new states to re-submit their requests in line with Section 8(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

“The committee has reviewed the proposals for state creation in accordance with Section 8(1) of the Constitution. This section specifies the requirements that must be met before initiating the process.

“Therefore, proponents must re-submit their requests in strict compliance with these provisions,” Kalu stated.

As expected, the announcement triggered nationwide debates.

Various socio-political groups, ethnic organisations, civil society bodies, human rights organisations, and other stakeholders expressed divergent opinions on the matter, which has remained a recurring issue in Nigeria’s political landscape.

On one hand, some argue that state creation is long overdue and that the current proposals are justified.

On the other, critics vehemently oppose the move, insisting that creating more states will not resolve marginalisation or political exclusivity, which are the main grievances behind these demands.

The Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), for instance, acknowledged that state creation could only be meaningful if all geopolitical zones had an equal number of states, as agreed upon in the 2014 constitutional conference.

However, it also raised concerns about the economic viability of such an endeavour.

“It is within the people’s rights to demand new states. However, during the last constitutional conference, it was agreed that each geopolitical zone should have seven states, as is the case in the North-West.

“Therefore, the South-East should get two additional states to make up seven, while the South-West should also receive additional states for balance.

“But the real question is: Will these states be viable? Can they sustain themselves? The vision of our founding fathers was for states to control their resources and remit taxes to the centre,” said PANDEF’s spokesperson, Christopher Ominimini.

Meanwhile, the Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness (CCLCA) has warned that state creation is not the solution to Nigeria’s problems.

In fact, Dr Gabriel Nwambu, Director-General of CCLCA, argued that instead of solving issues, additional states would further strain Nigeria’s already fragile economy.

“It is evident that creating more states is not a viable solution to our national challenges. On the contrary, it could exacerbate existing problems.

“Nigeria currently has 36 states plus the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), yet many of these states struggle to meet basic financial obligations, including payment of the minimum wage of ₦70,000. Some are already on the brink of insolvency.

“Creating new states will only increase administrative costs and worsen the financial burden on the federation,” Nwambu argued.

Similarly, Samson Itodo, Executive Director of Yiaga Africa, cautioned against the mass creation of states.

He stated that while it may be reasonable to adjust state numbers for equity, especially in the South-East, adding 31 new states at once would put unsustainable pressure on national resources.

“The demand for additional states is a recurring issue in constitutional debates, often driven by ethnic, political, and regional considerations rather than economic viability.

“Nigeria is already struggling to sustain its 36 states, many of which depend largely on federal allocations rather than internally generated revenue.

“Expanding the number of states without a strategic economic plan could worsen the fiscal crisis,” Itodo warned.

He further stressed that rather than creating new states, a more effective approach would be to strengthen existing states, improve governance, and ensure equitable resource distribution.

Beyond economic concerns, legal experts and political analysts have also pointed out the constitutional hurdles involved in state creation.

A former Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ibadan branch, Akeem Agbaje, dismissed the proposal as unrealistic.

He argued that most existing states are not even self-sustaining, making the idea of additional states impractical.

“Instead of pushing for new states, leaders should focus on addressing marginalisation through tailored policies and developmental projects,” Agbaje advised.

Similarly, Public Affairs Analyst Jide Ojo argued that state creation should not be a priority at this time, especially given Nigeria’s rising governance costs.

“At present, many states struggle to pay salaries. If we further divide them, how will the new administrative units be funded? Sustainability should be our focus.

“In fact, there are now calls for merging some states to improve viability and governance efficiency,” he noted.

From a constitutional perspective, analysts believe that creating states under a civilian government may be highly unlikely.

Former Chairman of the defunct ANPP in Imo, Prof. Vitalis Orikeze-Ajumbe, emphasised that the complex constitutional requirements make state creation almost impossible under civilian rule.

“The lawmakers are simply keeping us busy while the economy continues to deteriorate. The process of creating new states is highly rigorous, making it virtually impossible under a civilian government,” Orikeze-Ajumbe argued.

Since independence, state creation in Nigeria has been largely a military-driven process.

The last time states were created was in 1996, when Gen. Sani Abacha’s regime established six new states: Bayelsa, Ebonyi, Ekiti, Gombe, Nasarawa, and Zamfara.

Before that, in 1991, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida created nine states in response to widespread agitations, adding to earlier state formations by previous military governments.

Even though these states were established to promote governance accessibility and ethnic inclusivity, critics argue that they have not addressed marginalisation or political dominance by larger ethnic groups.

Given the cumbersome constitutional process and financial implications, the success of the 10th National Assembly’s move to create new states will depend on its ability to navigate complex political and legal challenges.

Whether or not it can break the long-standing jinx remains to be seen. (NANFeatures)

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

Sustaining Detty December to transform Nigeria into global tourism powerhouse
Features

Sustaining Detty December to transform Nigeria into global tourism powerhouse

 

 

By Taiye Olayemi, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Detty December, a phrase coined to describe the festive and celebratory atmosphere that characterises the month of December in Nigeria, indicates the high volume of excitement and merriment associated with the last month of the year in Africa’s most populated country.

 

Like in many other matters, Lagos State takes the lead in Detty December.

 

The 2024 edition was remarkable, with millions of dollars generated across tourism, hospitality and entertainment sectors in Lagos State.

 

This significant economic boost has sparked enthusiasm among stakeholders in the tourism industry, who are now seeking strategies to ensure sustainability of Detty December.

 

According to them, sustainability is crucial to maximising the economic benefits of Detty December and increasing its contribution to Nigeria’s gross domestic product.

 

Ikechi Uko, the organiser of AKWAABA African Travel and Tourism Market, emphasises the importance of adequate planning in making Detty December sustainable in Lagos and across Nigeria.

 

Uko says, with adequate planning, Detty December can be made sustainable and more beneficial not only to the tourism industry but also to local communities and the environment.

 

He urges that tourism bureaux, ministries, associations and other stakeholders should be carried along in the planning process.

 

He advises that a calendar of tourism events should be developed to make it sustainable.

 

“To make Detty December more sustainable, there has to be a calendar of tourism events, such that everyone planning to host events can register and inform the state or country.

 

“This enables tourists to plan their itineraries better. The idea is to make maximum income from the season. The more people move around, the more they spend money.

 

“We have to do it at the national level for people to gain full appreciation of what Nigeria has to offer as a nation.

 

“Nigeria can plan it better with tourism ministries, bureaux, associations, boards and other stakeholders with a properly planned calendar of tourism events.

 

“We should learn from what others have done successfully,” he says.

 

Mr Dayo Adedayo, an independent documentary photographer and cultural anthropologist, is of the opinion that sustainability of Detty December hinges on the ability of citizens to recognise opportunities and take full advantage of them.

 

He also believes that while the initiative thrives on citizen-led innovation and entrepreneurship, government should play a huge role by ensuring improved security.

 

He adds that government needs to invest more in infrastructure and ensure seamless immigration and customs processes as well as consider visa-free entry for Africans and people from the Caribbean.

 

“Continued investment in public transport system and event venues will enhance the overall experience during Detty December.

 

“One in every five Black people worldwide is a Nigerian; so, Nigeria should be the cultural home for all Black people.

 

“Granting visa-free entry to Africans and people from the Caribbean would position Nigeria as a prime destination for global Black tourism.

 

“To make Detty December sustainable, event organisers must focus on world-class event planning, ensuring that music, festivals, concerts, and parties are well-curated and safe,” he urges.

 

Adedayo advises that more emphasis should be placed on showcasing Nigerian arts, music, food and fashion to create an immersive experience.

 

“Leveraging social media to tell authentic Nigerian stories will bring even more attention to Detty December,” he argues.

 

Adedayo says showcasing Nigeria’s heritage to the world is delightful.

 

“Detty December is more than just a festive season. It is a movement.

 

“With citizens driving innovation and the government providing essential support, it has the potential to transform Nigeria into a global tourism powerhouse,” he says.

 

Mrs Bolaji Mustapha, National President of the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), says the association is willing to partner with Lagos State Government to determine best ways to make Detty December sustainable.

 

According to Mustapha, the association is ready to showcase its expertise in tour packaging in order to generate more revenue for Lagos State during Detty December.

 

She believes that there is need to introduce more entertaining activities during Detty December, including organising daily city tours and putting up roadshows to market Lagos State and the entire Nigeria ahead of the season.

 

Mustapha is convinced that the 2024 edition of Detty December, which recorded a huge success, can still be improved on.

 

According to her, no fewer than 150 members of NATOP sold tour packages during 2024 Detty December.

 

The NATOP president says the association made about 80 per cent increase in sales in 2024 as against about 60 per cent increase in 2023.

 

“2024 Detty December was a huge success, and I commend Lagos State Government for this, but there is always room for improvement.

 

“As an association of tour operators with expertise in tour packaging both locally and internationally, we are ready to extend our touch of professionalism to make the next edition outstanding.

 

“Our focus is to partner with the state to have a detailed city tour with tourists. The essence of this is to enable tourists to have more beautiful and memorable experiencesv.

 

“To make the season sustainable, the state needs to organise roadshows with tour operators from other countries who will, in turn, sell Nigeria with us,” she suggests.

 

According to her, the tour operators will come and see what Nigeria has to offer in tourism and go back to their countries to market these in order to attract more tourists to Nigeria.

 

“To make it sustainable, we want to partner with the state government to see how more activities can be added.”

 

For Mr Ganiu Balogun, a major thing that will make Detty December sustainable is improved security.

 

Balogun says he obvserved last Detty December that some people were reluctant to go to certain places and at certain times of the day due to security concerns.

 

He is, however, delighted that a significant number of tourists opted for water transport means during the celebration.

 

Analysts urge collective efforts to sustain Detty December as a strategy to transform Nigeria into a global tourism powerhouse. (NANFeature)

 

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

 

Imperative of safeguarding Nigeria’s mineral wealth
Features

Imperative of safeguarding Nigeria’s mineral wealth

By Martha Agas

Illegal mining, a global cankerworm, is eating deep into Nigeria’s mineral wealth; it costs the nation billions of naira loss yearly.

Nigeria is endowed with natural resources ranging from industrial metals to various precious stones.

It has 44 types minerals spread across its states in commercial quantities, including the seven critical minerals needed for the energy transition.

To highlight Nigeria’s minerals potential, a German company, Geoscan, conducted a preliminary survey revealing that the country has an estimated 750 billion dollars’ worth of solid minerals underground, a quarter of which remains untapped.

Experts say the sector has great potential to contribute significantly to Nigeria`s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), a goal President Bola Tinubu’s administration is pursuing in its economic diversification drive.

They argue that this potential should provide Nigeria with a strategic advantage in driving its development.

However, they regret that successive governments have prioritised the oil sector, leaving the mining industry unregulated and vulnerable to infiltration by artisanal and illegal miners.

They say this neglect enabled illegal mining to flourish, worsening security challenges as banditry and kidnapping surged in mining states.

Consequently, the government imposed bans in Zamfara where such actors flocked due to its vast gold deposits; the five-year ban was later lifted in December, 2024.

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, lamented that the directive had created a vacuum, which illegal miners exploited to deprive the nation of its resources.

Industry stakeholders also agree with the minister, asserting that illegal mining had fueled banditry and significantly contributed to the sector’s monopolisation by a few powerful elite in Nigeria who exploited its mineral wealth.

Upon his appointment, the minister declared a state of emergency in the sector, stating that powerful individuals involved in illegal mining were funding banditry and obstructing the sector’s revenue-generating potential.

Although his pronouncement sparked nationwide controversy, stakeholders continue to insist that Nigeria’s mineral wealth remains in the hands of a few powerful individuals who appear untouchable.

Sen. Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo-North, raised serious concerns recently.

He spoke during the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals 2025 budget defence report presentation to the Committee on Appropriations.

Oshiomhole alleged that some retired military officers were engaged in illegal mining, employing sophisticated machinery and procuring arms to sustain their activities.

The lawmaker urged the Federal Government to combat illegal mining with same might it deploys against illegal oil bunkering.

“My position is that we shouldn’t be lamenting; we should fix the problem; we should tell the executive you must deploy exactly the same force that you deployed against illegal oil bunkering in the Niger-Delta.

“That same force should be deployed to deal with criminals who have money; when I say criminal, it can be a retired general, it can be a retired permanent secretary, it can be a retired trade unionist or a retired labour leader,” he said.

Civil Society Organisations also agree with him; they warned that the situation could undermine Tinubu’s economic diversification policy, aimed at enhancing the solid minerals sector to contribute significantly to the country’s GDP.

The Executive Director of Renevyln Development Initiative (RDI), Philip Jakpor, said that powerful interests were behind illegal mining, depriving Nigeria of revenue from the sector.

Jakpor, however, argued that while stakeholders like Oshiomhole had made the allegations, addressing the issue required strong political will.

He said that the suspects should be named and arrested, noting that if those responsible for the menace remained unidentified and unapprehended, it pointed to a deeper underlying problem.

“It is either collusion at certain quarters in government or total negligence, but I suspect it is collusion.

“Some people in government are benefiting maximally from illegal mining and so choose not to halt the practice. “

Jakpor pointed fingers at expatriates, particularly the Chinese, alleging that they make up the majority of illegal miners in Nigeria.

He noted that their firms, initially registered as agro-commodity outfits, later engaged in the illegal extraction of lithium and other precious minerals.

“Almost every other month, some Chinese nationals are arrested; since they are registered as agro-commodity firms, who is responsible for monitoring their activities?

“Legislative oversight should ensure they are doing what they are supposed to do; the government needs to wake up to that call, “he said.

Agreeing to this position, Dr Abdullahi Jabi, the Chairman, North Central Zone, Campaign for Democracy, Human Rights Advocacy, Civil Society of Nigeria, lamented that expatriates, particularly the Chinese, were engaged by the powerful interest in Nigeria to work for them.

He attributed the state of unemployment of youths as one of the factors as the powerful interests were engaged them in illegal mining and banditry.

“The rich actually sponsor, support, protect and provide security for those involved in illegal mining and they are the ones selling the products for personal benefits.’’

While acknowledging Oshiomhole’s courage in his outcry over the monopolisation of the mining sector, he also accused lawmakers of being complicit in the act.

“They are part and parcel of this; their in-laws, brothers, nephews and others are part of the beneficiaries looting Nigeria’s common wealth for few individuals to be the almighty.

“This is in terms of enrichment, against the vast majority of the people who are impoverished by either poor policy of government or by design of government to put them in perpetual poverty and hunger, such as now, “he said.

Jabi also alleged that some traditional rulers where mining activities were high, also connived with illegal miners, mostly expatriates, who came with their equipment to cart away Nigeria’s mineral wealth.

He described the situation as complex, resulting from factors such as the negligence of constitutional duties by political leaders and public office holders.

According to him, to address the situation, a holistic legal framework must be established to ensure that the solid minerals sector receives the required attention.

He emphasised the need for adequate logistics to enable the government to implement strict measures for the benefit of the people, rather than a few individuals who were exploiting the nation’s resources.

Worthy of note, retired generals have faulted Oshiomhole’s allegations.

Retired Maj.-Gen. Bamidele Olawumi, in a reaction, said Oshiomhole’s remarks were aimed at tarnishing the image of retired generals who had served the nation meritoriously.

He urged Oshiomhole to validate his claims with evidence and present the proof to appropriate authorities.

“If he possesses credible evidence of any retired general involved in illegal mining, he should report such individuals to the Department of State Services or other relevant authorities,’’ he said.

While some stakeholders are optimistic about the political will of Tinubu’s administration to address the menace given the results it has already recorded in its mining reforms, others share Oshiomhole’s view that it can only be tackled using the same approach applied to oil bunkering in the South-South.

Doing otherwise, they say, will sustain the vicious cycle. (NANFeatures)

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

Rising cases of childhood cancer in Nigeria: Hope on the horizon?  
Features

Rising cases of childhood cancer in Nigeria: Hope on the horizon?  

By Folasade Akpan, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Annually, on Feb. 15, the International Childhood Cancer Day (ICCD) is commemorated as a global campaign to create awareness about childhood cancer and support for the patients, survivors and their families.

In Nigeria, survivors recall nauseating experiences, while relevant authorities, stakeholders and health experts are stepping up efforts to curb the menace.

At just eight years old, Adekemi Oyewusi was diagnosed with Burkitt’s lymphoma, a disease she and her family had never even heard of.

The next two years of her life were marked by pain, isolation and an uphill battle against a disease that stole her childhood.

Oyewusi has chilling reminiscences.

“I longed to play with my siblings and peers, but my world was confined to the four walls of a hospital, where pain and solitude became my constant companions.’’

The chemotherapy treatments, administered through her spinal cord, were excruciating.

The nausea, the fatigue and the devastating sight of her hair falling out left her feeling like a shadow of her former self; but against all odds, she survived.

Now, 25 years later, Oyewusi is not just a survivor, she is an advocate, amplifying the voices of children battling cancer and pushing for equitable healthcare policies.

She believes that while Nigerian children with cancer demonstrate incredible resilience, their journey could be made easier with more support.

“It is crucial for the government, healthcare providers, philanthropists, NGOs and society at large to recognise and address the unique needs of survivors.

“Comprehensive insurance plans, increased awareness of late effects, educational support and psychological counselling are all necessary,” she said.

She called for more paediatric oncology centres across the country, greater financial support for affected families and public awareness campaigns to educate communities on early detection.

Shittu Adewumi also had an unsavoury experience.

Adewumi’s story echoes the struggles of many children fighting cancer in Nigeria.

Diagnosed with lymphocytic leukaemia at just six years old, his family believed they were witnessing the end of his young life.

His mother, Titilayo Adewumi, recalls the harrowing experience.

“It was harrowing; he suffered immensely and the cost of treatment was unbearable.”

Now 14 years old and back in school, Adewumi has shown remarkable progress, thanks in part to the support of the Okapi Children Cancer Foundation.

According  to Adewumi’s mother, childhood cancer places enormous financial strain on families.

“The government should support children fighting cancer because this is not something one family can handle alone; it is a huge financial burden.

“When you visit Federal Government hospitals, you see so many children battling cancer; they need urgent help,” she pleads.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), an estimated 400,000 children and adolescents aged zero to 19 years develop cancer globally each year.

The organisation also said that unlike many adult cancers, most childhood cancers have no known cause and are not linked to lifestyle or environmental factors.

In Nigeria, the exact prevalence of childhood cancer remains unclear due to poor data collection.

However, the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) Cancer Centre houses the country’s first Childhood Population-Based Cancer Registry, which has recorded 237 cases in just over a year.

Prof. Abidemi Omonisi, the President, Nigeria Cancer Society (NCS) and founder of the registry, warns that childhood cancer is indeed on the rise and needs urgent attention.

“For too long, the focus has been on breast, cervical and prostate cancers, while childhood cancer has been neglected,” he said.

Dr Timipah West, a paediatric oncologist at Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital, identifies some of the most prevalent childhood cancers in Nigeria to be Lymphomas such as Burkitt’s lymphoma, Neuroblastoma a cancer of the adrenal glands and Nephroblastoma known as kidney cancer.

Others are Retinoblastoma (eye cancer affecting the retina), Rhabdomyosarcoma (cancer of the muscle tissue) and acute leukaemia (blood cancer affecting white blood cells).

West said that while the causes remained largely unknown, potential risk factors of childhood cancer included genetic predispositions, exposure to chemicals, certain infections and environmental changes.

Speaking to reasons why childhood cancer was now on the increase in Nigeria, she said it was due to a lot of factors.

She identified an increase in diagnostic capabilities and availability of more treatment facilities and more awareness among the populace about childhood cancers based on increased advocacy as some of the reasons.

The oncologist also added environmental factors including climate change that lead to genetic changes as also a contributing factor.

“The Nigerian Society of Paediatric Oncology (NISPO) working with NCS and the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare play huge roles in creating awareness on childhood cancer.

“This advocacy is very important because some people in the general public think that only adults can have cancers.”

She noted that preventive measures could be employed before the cancer develops.

West listed the measures as early detection and commencement of treatment to prevent complications and death.

According to her, genetic studies can be done for those at risk of developing certain cancers, so they are identified at the very early stages.

She added that those with conditions that predisposed them to certain cancers such as down syndrome and leukaemia should be followed up closely and treatment commenced as soon as possible.

“Also, adequate diet, environmental protection against climate change and chemicals and drug exposure are very important.

“The introduction of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Vaccination that can prevent future development of cervical cancer is also very important.

“Treatment options available include chemotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy and immunotherapy.

“The most commonly available in Nigeria are chemotherapy and surgery.”

West emphasised that childhood cancer was treatable when detected early with available treatment options in Nigeria including chemotherapy, surgery for tumour removal, radiotherapy and immunotherapy which was still emerging.

She also advocated preventive measures such as genetic screening for children with a family history of cancer.

According to the oncologist, reducing environmental exposure to harmful chemicals and pollutants is essential too.

Recognising the urgent need for action, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has begun prioritising childhood cancer treatment.

Dr Uche Nwokwu, the Coordinator, National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP), highlights recent policy shifts aimed at improving outcomes for children.

“One major breakthrough was Nigeria’s acceptance into the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC), a WHO-led effort aimed at increasing childhood cancer survival rates worldwide.

“This inclusion means that Nigeria will now benefit from donations, research partnerships, and support from institutions like St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in the United States,” Nwokwu explains.

He said that the Federal Government had included childhood cancer treatment in the 2025 Appropriation Bill, signalling a commitment to funding care for affected children.

While childhood cancer in Nigeria remains a growing crisis, the increasing attention from government agencies, NGOs and international bodies offers a glimmer of hope.

Health analysts say with early diagnosis, improved healthcare policies and increased funding, survival rates can improve dramatically. (NANFEATURES)

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

Dar es Salaam Declaration: Africa’s milestone on universal energy access
Features

Dar es Salaam Declaration: Africa’s milestone on universal energy access

By Olawunmi Ashafa -News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

‘’No industry can grow, industrialise or be competitive in the dark’’, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors, African Development Bank (AfDB) Group, once declared at the Noor solar power point in Quarzazate, Southern Morocco.

This, therefore, explains the essence of the recent African Energy Summit: ‘Mission 300’, in Dar es Salaam,Tanzania, from Jan. 27 to Jan. 28, a collaboration between the African Development Bank and the World Bank Group, alongside other development partners to expand Africa’s energy access

The initiative is a bold step toward providing electricity to 300 million Africans by 2030, positioning energy access as the cornerstone of economic growth, job creation, and poverty alleviation.

Bringing together influential stakeholders such as global leaders, development banks, and private sector representatives came together to chart Africa’s energy future.

A central theme of the summit was the urgent need to transition toward renewable energy as Africa is endowed with vast renewable energy resources, solar, wind, and hydropower, which remain largely untapped.

At the end of the summit, some key contributions and recommendations were incorporated into the “Dar es Salaam Declaration”, a landmark achievement, shaping Africa’s energy future.

The declaration emphasises the necessity of scaling up investments in clean energy projects, particularly in rural and off-grid areas, to bridge the continent’s energy access gap.

Stakeholders at the summit stressed the importance of innovative financing mechanisms to fund Africa’s energy transition.

They recommended strengthening public-private partnerships (PPPs) to attract private sector investment, expanding the use of green bonds to finance renewable energy projects and increasing concessional financing from global institutions like the World Bank and the African Development Bank.

The summit underscored the need for harmonised policies to facilitate cross-border energy trade. Successful examples, such as Ethiopia’s renewable energy exports to neighbouring countries, were highlighted as models for enhancing energy security.

The declaration calls for the expansion of regional power pools to ensure efficient energy distribution and affordability as well as acknowledging the transformative role of digitalisation in the energy sector.

The President of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu, urged African leaders to prioritise energy access, stressing the importance of collaborative efforts.

He stated, “Let us work together to create a brighter future for our citizens, where every African can access reliable and affordable energy.

“A future where our industries thrive, our economies grow, and our people prosper.”

The President reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to providing reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity to its unelectrified population by 2030, saying, “This is an ambitious goal, but we can achieve it together.

“As Nigeria’s President, I am committed to making energy access a top priority.”

His counterpart, Tanzania’s president, Samia Suluhu Hassan, said, “As leaders, we will be able to deliver on our promise to our citizens to provide power and clean cooking solutions that will transform lives and economies.

“Mission 300 is expected to boost the provision of clean cooking energy to homes, cutting reliance on wood and charcoal which are harmful.

The Minister of Finance and Co-ordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, during the signing of a partnership agreement between the IFC and Distributing Renewable Energy (DRE) companies, emphasised the significance of the initiative in addressing energy poverty on the continent.

He said, “This is one of the first tangible actions we can point to at this summit, which will culminate in the Dar es Salaam Declaration.

“Today’s agreement will bring electricity access to 400,000 people, and we all know how transformative that is.

“I encourage us to keep up this momentum of doing rather than merely saying.”

Meanwhile, Adesina, emphasised the need for decisive action to accelerate electrification across the continent.

“Critical reforms will be needed to expand the share of renewables, improve utility performance utilities, ensure transparency in licensing and power purchase agreements, and establish predictable tariff regimes that reflect production costs.

“Our collective effort to support you, heads of state and government, in developing and implementing clear, country-led national energy compacts to deliver on your visions for electricity in your respective countries,” he said.

Kevin Kariuki, Vice President for Power, Energy, Climate, and Green Growth, AfDB, said, “energy is the engine of development, without affordable, reliable, and sustainable electricity, Africa cannot achieve its developmental aspirations or secure its rightful place in the global economy.

“Energy access is the cornerstone of economic transformation, opening doors to education, healthcare, and income generation.

“Moreover, it fosters gender equality by reducing the time women spend on labour and time-intensive tasks such as cooking with traditional fuels or collecting for firewood.

“Mission 300’s success is therefore not just about electrification; it is about saving and empowering lives as well as communities. It is also about reducing greenhouse gas emissions and safeguarding biodiversity,” he added.

Mr Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank, stressed the importance of collaboration to achieve the summit’s ambitious goals.

He said, “Access to electricity is a fundamental human right. Without it, countries and people cannot thrive.

“Our mission to provide electricity to half of the 600 million people in Africa without access is a critical first step. To succeed, we must embrace a simple truth: no one can do it alone.

“Governments, businesses, philanthropies, and development banks each have a role, and only through collaboration can we achieve our goal.”

During the summit, partners announced a series of commitments: AfDB and the World Bank Group plan to allocate 48 billion dollars in financing for Mission 300 through 2030, which may evolve to fit implementation needs.

Also, Agence Francaise de Development (AFD): one billion pounds to support energy access in Africa while Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) promised one billion dollard to 1.5 billion dollars to support Mission 300, Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group: 2.65 billion dollars in support of Mission 300 and energy access in Africa from 2025-2030.

OPEC Fund made an initial commitment of one billion dollars in support of Mission 300 with additional financing to follow.

Similarly, World Bank and AfDB launched Zafiri, an investment company that supports private sector-led solutions, such as renewable mini-grids and solar home systems.

Zafiri anchor partners will invest up to 300 million dollars in the first phase and mobilise up to one billion to address the persistent equity gap in Africa in these markets.

Also, experts at the summit, advocated the adoption of smart grids and decentralised energy systems to improve efficiency, reduce energy losses, and integrate renewable energy sources more effectively.

An energy expert, Ms Chantel Abdul, Chief Executive Officer of Virtuition Solaris, highlighted her organisation’s efforts to drive energy access in underserved communities.

She lauded the collaborative efforts of development partners in supporting the Distributed Energy Solutions (DES) programme, which aims to provide off-grid electricity to those who need it most.

“This is evidence of our development partners’ commitment to the M-300 agenda, as outlined by the Minister of Finance. Connecting 300 million Africans, including Nigerians, to electricity is a passion that Solaris shares deeply,” she said.

Governance challenges, including regulatory inefficiencies and corruption, were identified as major barriers to energy progress.

The declaration calls for greater transparency and accountability in energy investments, stronger regulatory frameworks to attract investors, community engagement to ensure energy policies align with local needs.(NAN)

AWA/FAA

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Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Trends in oil company and Delta host community relations
Features

Trends in oil company and Delta host community relations

By Kayode Adebiyi, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Chief Obaogu Daniel, a community leader in Ogbeani, Ndokwa West Local Government Area, Delta State, recently recounted how Liquefied Petroleum Gas Kwale, acquired land from the community in 2017.

Daniel said one of the conditions for the acquisition was for the company to provide the community with its accrued benefits as a host community in the oil and gas industry.

“At the end of the day, what happened was quite different from what we anticipated,” he said.

Also, he explained that treating workers from the community with dignity was a key condition for the acquisition.

However, he lamented, that the company had failed to uphold this condition.

“We found out that even unskilled labourers were brought in from India, thereby reducing job opportunities for community youths,” he alleged.

In addition, he claimed that ”the military, which provides security for the company as a national critical infrastructure, has emboldened the company to act with impunity.

“Nevertheless, we are a peaceful host community which is not hostile to oil and gas companies.”

A recent report stated that the host community alleged that the management of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), Kwale, Delta State, was maltreating workers from the community.

The Kwale Hydrocarbon Nigeria Limited (KHNL) is an independent downstream gas distribution company.

As a result of these concerns, the Ogbeani people and the larger Ndokwa community called on Delta Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori to intervene over the alleged mistreatment.

According to the report, the community found it necessary to voice its anger and frustration over the mistreatment of Ogbeani community workers, particularly since the company operates on their land.

Historically, tensions between oil companies and their host communities in Nigeria have been longstanding.

The Niger Delta, which hosts the majority of the country’s oil and gas reserves, has been a hotspot for conflicts between multinational oil corporations and local communities.

These conflicts often stem from issues such as environmental degradation, lack of job opportunities for indigenes, poor Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, and inadequate compensation for land use.

For instance, a 2022 report by the Stakeholder Democracy Network (SDN) revealed that over 60 per cent of host communities in the Niger Delta lack access to basic social amenities, in spite of the vast wealth generated from oil extraction in the region.

Many communities complain about the destruction of their farmlands and water sources due to oil spills and gas flaring, leading to severe economic and health consequences.

Similarly, a 2023 study by the Centre for Research on Multinational Corporations revealed that gas flaring in the Niger Delta remains one of the worst in the world, contributing to environmental pollution and health hazards such as respiratory diseases and cancer.

In spite of regulations against gas flaring, companies continue the practice with minimal consequences.

This latest allegation against LPG adds to several similar accusations by host communities in areas where oil and gas companies operate.

For example, in 2024, Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) denied allegations that its Train 7 Project Engineering, Procurement, and Construction Contractors neglected its host community, Bonny Island.

This followed a publication accusing the company of excluding the people of Bonny from the benefits of its CSR programmes.

However, NLNG dismissed the report as false and baseless, stating that it had already earmarked two major CSR projects for the island.

Specifically, the company cited the Shell Gate-Coal Beach Road and the Bonny Vehicular Terminal, both of which had been agreed upon by all relevant stakeholders.

Prior to this, in 2021, Finima, a host community in Bonny Local Government Area of Rivers State, threatened to sever ties with NLNG until further notice.

According to the community, NLNG had refused to grant it the rights of a landlord, as provided for in the Nigerian Local Content Law and as applicable to other host communities of key facilities in the country.

In a broader context, Stephen Woollett, in his book ‘Environmental Grants’, noted that oil and gas operations in rural communities often generate prolonged conflicts between such communities and oil companies.

He further stated that such conflicts arise from several actions, including disregard for environmental quality concerns, gross human rights violations, and poor CSR policies.

“The low quality of life of the host communities of oil companies is indicative of the relationship between them and those communities,” he said.

Similarly, in the case of Ogbeani community workers at LPG in Kwale, their demand is for the company to issue them formal employment letters clearly defining their terms and conditions of service.

Additionally, they stated that these terms and conditions should include improved welfare provisions similar to those enjoyed by other workers.

As part of their efforts, representatives of the community workers, through I. O. Omoyibo & Co., Barristers, Solicitors, and Legal Consultants, recently sent a letter of appeal to the state governor.

Dated October 30, 2024 and titled “Save Our Soul”, the letter lamented that the company arbitrarily hires and dismisses community workers without ‘knowing their fate or what lies ahead since no employment letter was issued to them’.

Moreover, they alleged that the company had failed to implement the new minimum wage, which could have improved their lives.

They stated that all attempts to resolve the dispute amicably had proved abortive.

Given these grievances, the community urged the governor to use his good offices to persuade the company’s management to listen to the workers and implement their requests.

They further stressed that their demands were reasonable and aligned with the country’s labour requirements.

When contacted on the matter, Chief Lucky Ojumah, Community Liaison Officer (CLO) at LPG, declined to comment extensively.

“I am ready to give all the information, but I must get a directive,” he was quoted as saying.

Likewise, the company’s General Manager, Mr Murugesh Kamal Seepco, declined to respond to the allegations when our reporter reached out to him.

In conclusion, ongoing tensions between oil companies and Niger Delta communities reveal the need for corporate accountability, transparent engagement, and compliance with labour and environmental regulations.

Stakeholders urge the government, companies, and community leaders to prioritise fair labour practices, adequate compensation, and sustainable development to prevent further conflicts that disrupt both businesses and local livelihoods. (NANFeatures)

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