By Philip Yatai, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Children have always been referred to as the leaders of tomorrow, and that “tomorrow” belongs to children. However, these assertions seem to be neither here nor there, considering the myriad of challenges before the Nigerian child.

The challenges are profound and pervasive with many children inhibited by socio-cultural and economic factors in the coordinates of their wellbeing and development.

The challenges range from childhood mortality to poor access to basic education, nutrition, and healthcare rights to child labour and sexual abuse, not to mention their being victims of conflict and war.

In addition to these challenges, climate change has put the lives of children under constant threat.

According to Save the Children International, nearly 710 million children in many countries are living at the highest risk of suffering the impact of climate crises.

Similarly, violent conflicts, widespread insecurity, kidnapping, and banditry seem to form part of everyday challenges for millions of children in Nigeria.

With the number of out-of-school children estimated at more than 10 million in the country, stakeholders have expressed concern that even those in schools were challenged by poor facilities, with many of them sitting on bare floors.

Kidnappers have been having a field day, abducting school children and their teachers at will, a situation analysts described as counter-productive to the ongoing efforts to provide children with functional education.

During the 2024 Children’s Day celebration in Abuja, the young ones particularly called for more investment in their education. They made a case for children’s acquisition of functional skills to position them in a way that would enable them to exploit their potential in the ever-changing world.

The call by the young ones was in tandem with the theme of the event, “Enhancing the Total Wellbeing of the Nigerian Child through Quality Education and Skills Development.”

“Help children in need and give those from poor households access to free education from the primary to the tertiary level.

“Equip our schools and make them conducive for learning.

“This will enable all children to access quality education and develop the needed knowledge and skills to live productive adulthood,” a 14-year-old secondary school student, Kolawale David, advocated.

For nine-year-old Ashezi Akwashiki, the author and advocate of a book on literacy and education, “dreams do come true, if every child is nurtured, supported, and equipped with the right knowledge and skills”.

At nine, Akwashiki has been instrumental to the production of “Book Buddies” by Ashezi Initiative, a non-profit organisation promoting literacy and educational equity.

This wouldn’t have been possible if she did not get the support she needed to learn and if her immediate environment had not been conducive enough to excite her imagination.

No wonder FCT’s Children Parliament described the wellbeing of children as the cornerstone of the future of Nigeria.

The Speaker of the parliament, Rahama Waziri, who made the assertion at an event to commemorate the 2024 Children’s Day, added that Nigerian children were in dire need of quality education and skills.

Waziri said that the celebration provided the needed opportunity to discuss how to collectively ensure that every Nigerian child received the education and skills necessary for him or her to thrive.

According to her, empowering children with education and skills is pivotal to the sustainable growth and development of the country.

“It is through their eyes that we envision a brighter tomorrow, and it is through their development that we can achieve it.

“Education is the bedrock of any progressive society. It is the tool that empowers individuals to transcend the limitations of their circumstances and achieve their full potential.

“For the Nigerian child, quality education is not just a right but a necessity.

“It is the gateway to opportunities, the key to breaking the cycle of poverty, and the foundation for a prosperous and equitable society,” she maintained.

She also stressed the need for skills development, describing it as crucial to preparing children for the challenges and opportunities in the future.

She noted that the world is evolving rapidly, and that the jobs of tomorrow will demand a diverse set of skills.

Therefore, she said, “It is imperative that children are equipped with both technical and soft skills that will enable them to adapt and thrive.

“We need to ensure that schools are well-equipped with modern facilities, including libraries, laboratories, digital resources, and that curriculums are updated to reflect current realities and future projections.

“In this digital age, technology plays a crucial role in education. Integrating ICT in classrooms can enhance learning experiences and provide students with the skills needed in a tech-driven world,” she said.

Acknowledging the need to equip Nigerian children with functional digital skills, Ms Chidinma Ilechukwu, the Assistant Project Officer, International IDEA, Nigeria Office, said children must be protected at all cost owing to the many challenges they face – abuse, violence, abandonment, and neglect.

She reiterated the organisation’s continued commitment to ensuring that all children in Nigeria have access to justice through the implementation of the Child Rights Acts at the federal and state levels.

Sharing similar sentiment, Sylvia Sarki, Operations Manager, Across Atlantic Development, UK, said parents, guardians and caregivers must continue to support and empower children to reach their full potential.

Sarki insisted that children must be supported to explore and grow as future leaders, innovators, and change-makers of tomorrow.

Responding to these calls, President Bola Tinubu said the Federal Government had embarked on key transformative policies to create a conducive learning environment across the country.

Tinubu, represented at the event by the FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, re-affirmed his administration’s commitment to implementing all matters relating to the total wellbeing and development of the Nigerian child.

He said that the Federal government had established the National Education Data System and approved skill development for all levels of education and teachers ‘training in digital skills.

“We are also working with the state commissioners of women wffairs and the state ministries of education, state universal basic education boards, and Civil Society Organisations to ensure quality education and skills development for Nigerian children,” Tinubu said.

The president also said that in furtherance of his “Renewed Hope” agenda, the government had earmarked N100 billion in the 2024 budget for school feeding programme, targeting 10 million Nigerian children in primary one to six.

He explained that the programme is being reviewed to address hunger, improve nutrition, enhance student’s’ attendance academic performance, boost local agriculture, and serve as an economic stimulus to local communities.

Similarly, Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, assured the children that their rights would be protected.

“When it comes to fighting for your rights, I shall always be there for you because Mr. President said the poor shall breathe and the children are one of the vulnerable,” the minister said.

For Mrs Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, Mandate Secretary, Women Affairs Secretariat, FCT Administration, children are assets to the nation and must be nurtured and supported.

Benjamins-Laniyi assured children in Abuja of FCT Minister, Mr Nyesom Wike’s commitment to ensuring that every child in the federal capital territory has access to quality education and skills development opportunities.

She added that the FCT was working to promote policies that protect children’s rights, education, and other necessities towards building a life of dignity.

Also reassuring the children of government’s support, was the Chairman of the Abuja Municipal Area Council, Mr Christopher Maikalangu, who announced the establishment of an ‘Education Endowment Fund’.

According to Maikalangu, the fund is to enable children in rural communities to have access to quality and functional education.

He emphasised the role of education in protecting children from various forms of abuse, adding that no child should be denied access to basic education.

Stakeholders stressed the need to prioritise children’s rights and participation in matters that concern them, with a view to build a better future for all. (NANFeatures)

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

By Mark Longyen, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

“My primary foreign policy objective must be the peace and stability of the West African subregion and the African continent. We shall work with ECOWAS, the AU and willing partners in the international community to end extant conflicts, and to resolve new ones. As we contain threats to peace, we shall also retool our foreign policy to more actively lead the regional, continental, and global quest for collective prosperity.”

The above excerpt extracted from President Bola Tinubu’s speech during his inauguration on May 29, 2023, clearly enunciating and underscored the foreign policy focus of his administration as encapsulated in his Renewed Hope agenda.

At the heart of the administration’s foreign policy approach, dubbed the ‘Tinubu Doctrine,’ is a ‘4-D Diplomacy Strategy’ centred on promoting democracy, driving economic development, harnessing Nigeria’s demographic potential, and engaging with the diaspora community.

One year after Tinubu’s epochal inaugural speech, analysts have given the President a thumbs up for not just reinforcing Nigeria’s traditional Afrocentric foreign policy thrust but redefining it under the auspices of the 4D agenda.

According to them, Tinubu’s foreign policy focus is a success and consistent with the nation’s traditional three concentric circles, which prioritizes West Africa, Africa and rest of the world, and a non-aligned disposition.

For instance, Tinubu’s foreign policy initiatives are observed to have deliberately accorded the West African subregion, under the auspices of ECOWAS, topmost priority, followed by the African continent under the auspices of AU, and then the rest of the world.

The President, some observers argue, has matched his inaugural speech words with action in the implementation of the administration’s foreign policy, and is barking and biting, where necessary.

Notably, in the past twelve months, Tinubu has embarked on a string of strategic diplomatic trips to many countries of the world, seeking and sealing bilateral and multilateral partnerships in the national interest.

These trips were for multifaceted reasons, varying from expanding and strengthening Nigeria’s bilateral relations and multilateral partnerships, to defence and security, as well as to convince foreign investors to invest in the nation’s economy.

Scorecard as ECOWAS Chairman

The President’s debut official trip to West Africa was to Guinea-Bissau for the Summit of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on July 9, 2023 for the 63rd Ordinary Session of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, where he was automatically admitted as the newest member of the exclusive club.

His status was quickly elevated when the ECOWAS member states unanimously elected him as Chairman of the Authority of Heads of State and Government, to succeed President Umaro Embalo of Guinea-Bissau, who had held the reins between 2022 and 2023.

In his acceptance speech, he read the riot act to terrorists and military putschists warning them that the threat to peace in the subregion had reached an intolerable alarming proportion and called for concerted actions from member states.

Tinubu warned that under no circumstance would ECOWAS under his leadership condone any disruption to democratic order in any member state in the subregion.

In what seemed like he had a premonition of what was to happen next, as well as a test of his will, military leaders in Niger Republic overthrew the government of President Mohamed Bazoum seventeen days after.

The Niger coup sparked an immediate outrage and reaction from Tinubu, who quickly convened an emergency meeting of the body where stringent punitive measures were taken against the Niger military putchists, including the threat of military action, should they fail to restore Bazoum.

This was, however, later diplomatically resolved with the subsequent lifting of sanctions on Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso, in line with Nigeria’s foreign policy tradition of good neighborliness.

This age-long foreign policy disposition aims at strengthening and deepening bilateral relations with Nigeria’s immediate neighbours, which is strategic to Nigeria and West Africa’s economic and security interests.

On August 1, 2023, Tinubu made another short trip across the Nigerian border to the Republic of Benin for the 63rd independence anniversary ceremony of the country.

While this visit may appear ceremonial on the surface, deep down, it represented a significant step in the efforts by the two countries to consolidate their age-long relationship of good neighborliness.

Commenting on Tinubu’s West African foreign policy focus, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (rtd), former Nigerian Head of State and founding father of ECOWAS, lauded him for uniting the bloc under his leadership.

Gowon, who spoke recently at the inauguration of the Academy of International Affairs, a foreign policy think-thank founded by former foreign affairs minister, Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi, in Abuja, said that Tinubu as ECOWAS Chairman, had achieved a crucial foreign policy milestone by promptly taking measures to forestall the bloc’s disintegration.

He said that by rallying ECOWAS leaders together quickly during the Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger exit threat, and lifting the agonizing sanctions earlier imposed on them, Tinubu took the right step in the right direction that has kept ECOWAS as one bloc.

“I must commend President Bola Tinubu for all the foreign policy initiatives he made, which have kept ECOWAS together in the face of recent challenges.

“I implore the President to continue to ensure that Nigeria’s voice remains audible, and its influence felt in international relations,” Gowon said.

Corroborating Gowon’s view on Tinubu’s ECOWAS foreign policy approach, Dr Mohamed Ibn Chambas, pioneer President, ECOWAS Commission, and current AU High Representative for ‘Silencing the Guns in Africa,’ expressed confidence in ECOWAS under Tinubu to resolve the Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger impasse.

Chambas noted that Tinubu’s combined democratic and diplomatic credentials needed not be proved because all his life, he has stood for fighting for democracy, adding that his own personal experiences were also a testimony.

“He is very strong in his opposition to military interventions because, having elected democratic governments over any other form of government, including military intervention, is the only accepted form of governance globally.

“We also know President Tinubu to be a practical person and politician, who has his ideals and principles and will do what is necessary to keep ECOWAS united.

“I’m aware that he is already working actively with the ECOWAS President, Dr Omar Touray, to ensure that every diplomatic step is taken to keep ECOWAS united,” Chambas said.

Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, while reinforcing the Afrocentric focus of President Tinubu recently, stressed that Nigeria’s core foreign policy thrust over the past year has been consistently Afrocentric.

Tuggar explained that this was driven through a three concentric circle application, aimed at achieving economic growth, peace and security within West Africa and Africa at large.

According to him, Tinubu’s administration’s newly defined foreign policy projection is encapsulated in the ‘4Ds’, namely Democracy, Development, Demography, and Diaspora.

“The 4Ds doctrine is being deployed to build alliances through diplomatic engagements and partnerships with other nations, multilateral institutions and the diaspora community.

“This foreign policy outlook heralds a new era of regional stability and collective prosperity for the sub-region and, indeed, Nigeria.

“Through these efforts, Nigeria can assume a stronger leadership role in resolving conflicts and driving economic growth across Africa.

“Mr President emphasizes the significance of engaging with regional organizations, such as the AU, ECOWAS and forging strong partnerships with international allies,” Tuggar said.

Curbing terrorism in Africa

As a bold step towards curbing the surging scourge of terrorism and violent conflicts sweeping across West Africa, President Tinubu recently hosted a two-day African high-level counter-terrorism summit in Abuja, attended by African presidents, AU President, UN deputy secretary general, among others.

The summit aimed at precipitating African-led and African-owned solutions against terrorism; strengthening regional response to terrorism threats; enhancing regional cooperation; producing a comprehensive approach and addressing conditions conducive to the spread of terrorism, among others.

This bold move clearly underscores the urgency and seriousness with which Tinubu and other African leaders are tackling the continent’s spiraling insecurity situation, using regional platforms, such as the AU and ECOWAS, to address this existential threat.

Speaking at the event, Tinubu called for the establishment and strengthening of a regional standby military force to curb terrorism, violent conflicts and unconstitutional changes of government in Africa.

“Terrorism snaps at the very fabric of the prosperous and just society, which we seek to build for ourselves and our children.

“This violent threat seeks to frighten the farmer from his field, children from their schools, women from the marketplace and families from their very homes.

“We must, therefore, fight this threat together, combining determined national effort with well-tailored and regional and international collaboration,” he said.

Leveraging Paris climate change cum global financial pact summit

The President’s his first official trip outside the country, and the continent, was to Paris, the French capital, on June 20, 2023, to partake in the New Global Financing Pact Climate Change Summit.

The summit, which focused on the reform of multilateral development banks (MDBs), debt crisis, innovative financing, international taxes, and special drawing rights (SDRs), aimed at reshaping the global financial system and finding better ways to tackle poverty and climate change.

The pact was signed by world leaders to prioritise support for and investment in vulnerable countries, in order to mitigate the impacts of climate change, the energy crisis, and healthcare, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic on developing countries’ economies.

President Tinubu leveraged the event to engage in bilateral and multilateral diplomacy seeking support, collaboration and partnership with multilateral financial institutions and foreign investors, and rallying investors to take advantage of opportunities in Nigeria.

Tinubu also held a series of high-profile sideline meetings with world leaders, global business leaders, and chief executives of leading multilateral and development finance institutions.

They included the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) boss, Odile Renaud–Basso, and African Export-Import Bank (Afrexim) President, Benedict Oramah, among others.

As a demonstration of his genuine commitment to addressing the existential threat of climate change issues, Tinubu has also recently established a Presidential Committee on Climate Action and Green Economic Solutions.

The committee is tasked with coordinating and overseeing all policies and programmes on climate action and green economic development in relation to the global climate change action plan, so as to mitigate their imaginable negative consequences.

Chaired by Tinubu himself, the presidential committee aims to remove the constraints to coordination, foster a whole-of-government approach to climate-action programmes, and provide an efficient governance architecture.

The committee is also saddled with ensuring that all relevant institutions in the sector are plugged into the President’s vision and are collectively implementing the Renewed Hope Agenda on climate action.

Sharing his view on the dividends of these efforts, especially the Paris summit’s benefits, Ayokunle Olubunmi, head of financial institutions ratings firm, Agusto and Co, said it offered Tinubu the opportunity “to put his best foot forward, present his plans, talk to foreign investors, market Nigeria, and gain the trust of the international community.”

He stressed that Nigeria urgently needed the help and support of the MDBs and the international financial institutions (IFIs) to bail it out its current economic quagmire.

“Don’t forget that with all the policies the government is putting in place, some have negative shocks on the economy.

“So, we need those development banks to be able to support the economy, to cushion the impact, either by giving direct loans to businesses or advisories, or other supports,” the analyst said.

Leveraging the Delhi G-20 Summit

President Tinubu also embarked on economic diplomacy to attract foreign investors, where he succeeded in securing a whooping 14 billion dollars in commitments from Indian corporations, during the G-20 Summit in Delhi, India, which held in September, 2023.

This was a milestone foreign policy accomplishment because the President travelled to India, having in mind his uncompromising drive for foreign investment as top priority, taking along top government officials, businessmen and women in his entourage.

Addressing world leaders at the summit, Tinubu declared Nigeria’s commitment to promoting shared prosperity and security and called for global unity and cooperation in tackling pressing challenges, fostering inclusiveness, and establishing a fairer world order.

Reflecting on the theme of the Summit: ‘One Earth. One Family. One Future,’ Tinubu underscored the interconnectedness of global affairs and the need for collaborative efforts.

He noted that most contemporary global issues were international in character and could not be addressed without multilateral cooperation.

“Therefore, stronger collaboration, cooperation, and partnerships among diverse regions are the pathways to a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable future for our world.

“A world that lives as one family, but is divided by staggering income inequalities, and uneven access to basic social goods by the vast majority of our people, cannot result in a peaceful and secure world, where shared prosperity is achieved.

“Nigeria is poised, able and willing to be a major player in this family of the G-20 and in shaping a new world, without whom the family will remain incomplete,” he said.

He also seized the opportunity to hold discussions with some world leaders, who are regarded as key partners in Nigeria’s economic diplomacy drive with a view to stimulating local investment and wealth creation.

These included German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, U.S. President Joe Biden; European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen; and World Bank President, Ajay Banga, among others.

Russia-Africa Summit takeaways

The second Russia–Africa Summit and Russia–Africa Economic and Humanitarian Forum focused on strategising to enhance relations between Russia and the African continent, among other benefits.

During the summit, which held in St Petersburg, Russia, Nigeria was able to secure in a single stroke a whooping fortune of 14 billion dollars pledge of Foreign Direct Investment for the country.

Addressing the plenary session of the summit in St. Petersburg, the President, through Vice President Kashim Shetima, noted that Nigeria was entering a new era, and repositioned for greatness through strategic reforms and diversification of its economy.  

Commenting on the President’s string of multilateral and bilateral diplomacy during both the India G20 and the Russia-Africa summits, a civil society organization, the Coalition for the Revival of Ajaokuta Steel Company, gave the President a thumbs up.

“We thank Mr President for taking this swift initiative towards Nigeria’s industrialisation, as we pray that his tenure brings incompressible fortunes to Nigeria and for every Nigerian.

“Our immediate shared fortune is the pledge of 3 billion dollars by Jindal Steel and Power of India, which will see Ajaokuta Steel Rolling Mills working again, after being abandoned at 95 per cent completion stage since 1994.

“Apart from the production of iron, steel, other valuable products that will be available in the course of operation of Ajaokuta Steel Plant will for instance include about 110MW electricity, hydrogen, 35000 cubic meter of oxygen per hour.

“Others are nitrogen, argon, coke oven gas, sulphuric acid, and many more multiplier effects on the Nigerian economy, so the table must turn at this time in favour of Nigeria and Africa,” the CSO noted.

The Johannesburg BRICS Summit

As a demonstration of Tinubu’s commitment to economic collaboration with like minds globally, Nigeria attended the summit of the BRICS states, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa; as well as Egypt, Ethiopia, Argentina, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as an observer, although she has yet to formally apply to join the group.

The President said at the summit that Nigeria was seeking foreign partnerships that would provide opportunities for all to engage in trade, prosperity and shared progress with no marginalisation.

Tinubu, through Vice President Kashim Shettima, reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to playing a major role in shaping global framework and governance in the areas of finance, climate change, digital economy and post-pandemic recovery.

“This endeavour aims to foster global economic governance reform while enhancing the representation and voice of emerging market economies or developing countries.

“We seek a partnership that provides opportunities for all to engage in trade, prosperity, and shared progress with no marginalisation based on geography, race and legitimate sovereign affiliations.

“These nations confront historical developmental vulnerabilities and challenges that are beyond their control. Thus, it is imperative for us to unite within regional groups and forge a novel form of international cooperation,” he said.

Milestone UN General Assembly outing 

Foreign policy analysts describe President Tinubu’s maiden UN outing and speech at the 78th Session of the General Assembly on September 18, 2023, as a milestone, exemplary, and aligning with his foreign policy focus.

The President’s speech highlighted five themes namely, the need for global institutions and other nations to see Africa as a priority; an affirmation of democratic governance as the best guarantor of sovereign will, and the challenges posed by terrorism and violent extremism.

Other themes included the challenges of illicit mining and pilfering by extra-African powers and companies; and the threats posed by climate change.

The speech ingratiated the African and Nigerian publics to their own plight, as well as appealed to the sentiments of the developed world to partner with the developing world in a mutually benefiting relationship and equal terms.

“We welcome partnerships with those who do not mind seeing Nigeria and Africa assume larger roles in the global community.

“The question is not whether Nigeria is open for business. The question is how much of the world is truly open to doing business with Nigeria and Africa in an equal, mutually beneficial manner.

“Many proclamations have been made, yet our troubles remain close at hand; failures in good governance have hindered Africa.

“But broken promises, unfair treatment and outright exploitation from abroad have also exacted a heavy toll on our ability to progress,” he said.

Tinubu decried the menace of climate change and the pilfering of Africa’s resources with the active connivance of some countries and entities from the global North.

“African nations will fight climate change but must do so on our own terms. Africa is nothing less than the key to the world’s future.

“To achieve the needed popular consensus, this campaign must accord with overall economic efforts.

“Foreign entities abetted by local criminals, who aspire to be petty warlords have drafted thousands of people into servitude to illegally mine gold and other resources,” he stressed.

Commenting on the President’s UNGA speech, Prof. Jideofor Adibe of the Department of Political Science and International Relations, Nasarawa State University, Keffi, said the preamble of the speech spoke well to the different target publics.

“Admitting issues with domestic governance would be sweet music to the ears of the world leaders expecting the usual victim complex and begging bowl syndrome.

“The bit about broken promises, unfair treatment and outright exploitation from abroad will also play well with African and Nigerian publics,” the don said.

Nigeria-U.S. Relations

The U.S. has over the years been a very strong ally of Nigeria and Nigeria’s foreign policy under the Tinubu administration has been marked by continuity rather than any semblance of departure from the past.

U.S. Sen. Cory Booker, for instance, reiterated this disposition recently during the visit of a U.S. congressional delegation to Tinubu at the State House in Abuja, noting that Nigeria and the U.S. are partners bound by shared values of democracy, rule of law, and commitment to peace and good governance.

“I share my enthusiasm about deepening partnership between Nigeria and the U.S. We know in America that there is no greater or more important partner for the U.S. on the African continent than its biggest country, its biggest democracy, and its biggest economy. 

“We know the investments we make in this country in different sectors, and our partnership on security and counter-terrorism are not just for Nigeria’s benefit but for both of our countries’ benefit.

“You are a leader of particular character. You have the courage to do very difficult things, right at the beginning of your term. Something that many American leaders should look to.

“Someone who believes so much in their people that they can make difficult decisions and know that their country is resilient and strong to endure so that it can emerge stronger on the other side,” Booker said.

The U.S. has also recently announced the unveiling of an Open Skies Air Transport Agreement with Nigeria, which had provisionally been applied since 2000, that now establishes a modern civil aviation relationship between the two countries.

The agreement includes provisions that allow for unrestricted capacity and frequency of services, open route rights, a liberal charter regime, and open code-sharing opportunities.

Commenting on these developments, U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of African Affairs, State Department, Joy Basu, recently lauded Nigeria’s foreign policies, stressing that the money policies were conducive for businesses to thrive, as well as strengthening and positioning the nation’s economy for overall growth.

“The U.S. is committed to fostering its collaboration with Nigeria in order to tackle myriad pressing issues and obstacles, which Nigeria, being Africa’s largest economy, is facing.

“We are working closely with the U.S. Treasury, Nigerian authorities and African central banks towards ensuring public and private sector economic restoration, stability and prosperity across Africa,” the envoy said.

In her view, UN Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, said that over the past one year, Nigeria has witnessed progress from the reforms introduced by this administration to stabilize the economy with visible improvement.

“The Nigerian government has also been proactive in its foreign policy approach aimed at addressing security challenges in the country and the sub-regions as demonstrated by the hosting of an African counter-terrorism meeting last month.

“There have also been other notable initiatives such as the nationwide digital literacy programme and the expansion of the broadband infrastructure to bridge the digital divide and empower our people in this digital age,” she said.

Observers believe that Tinubu’s foreign policy has been remarkably consistent, pragmatic, vibrant, bold, brave, and uncompromisingly Afrocentric, gauged in the national interest.

They posit that Nigeria’s foreign policy focus under Tinubu has been a continuation and consolidation of the nation’s traditional foreign policy, predicated on an ‘Africa First’ mantra, and a reaffirmation of his inaugural speech pledge one year ago. (NANFeatures)

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

By Taiye Olayemi, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

On Aug. 16, 2023, President Bola Tinubu heeded the called by tourism industry stakeholders for the creation of a stand-alone Ministry of Tourism in the country, with the appointment of Lola Ade-John as the minister to spearhead affairs of the ministry.

The creation of the first-ever Ministry of Tourism was greeted by celebrations and jubilation among stakeholders across the nation.

One year into the present administration, some tourism practitioners while commending the government for the creation of the ministry, however, fault its budget allocation.

The ministry has an allocation of N11.06 billion in the 2024 budget, of which the sum of N3.96 billion is for recurrent expenditures while N7. 30 billion is for capital expenditure.

Ime Udo, National President, Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), advised President Bola Tinubu to ensure a substantial budget allocation for the tourism industry to support large-scale capital projects, marketing initiatives and capacity building.

Udo said it was necessary for the government to revitalise the industry, which has been abandoned for a long.

“The allocated budget of N11.06 billion for the tourism ministry in 2024 is a meagre sum, considering the industry’s neglect over the years and the need to execute significant capital projects.

“Recurrent expenditures account for a substantial portion (N3.96 billion), leaving limited funds for capital projects (N7.30 billion).

“To revitalise the industry, a more substantial budget allocation is necessary to support initiatives like infrastructure development, marketing campaigns, and capacity building.

“I believe tourism as a whole needs a lot more investment and budget than what we currently have.

“Tourism marketing and promotion does not only benefit the sites, attractions or festivals but also the entire socio-economic landscape of the people,” she says.

Udo further advised that going forward, a comprehensive tourism master plan must be developed, outlining strategies for sustainable development, growth and investment in human capacity building, training tourism professionals, and enhancing service standards.

She harped on the need for tourism and hospitality practitioners to leverage technology for digital marketing and virtual tours to showcase Nigeria’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

For Ikechi Uko, a tourism consultant, the ministry is yet to receive its full support from the government.

“No office, no vehicles, no take-off grant, so, for now, we are waiting for the government to fund and support its new baby to help realise the full potential of the purpose of its creation.”

According to Gbenga Sunmonu, President, Nigerian Hotel and Catering Institute (NHCI), the tourism industry has not faired well in the last one year.

Sunmonu says this is a result of the low budget made available for the sector which cannot make any significant impact in the promotion of tourism.

“The budget allocation is abysmal. This is just a fragment compared to some MDAs in the country.

“To groom the industry, the government should approach a holistic strategy starting from increasing the budget through appropriation.

“The minister should be intentional to develop all year-round programmes along geo-political zones; involve the state commissioners and be ready to mass promote using all agencies of government,” he said.

Sunmonu advised the Federal Government to reinstate the Presidential Advisory Committee on Tourism and walk the talk.

“The tourism minister should minimise junketing across states and be purposeful in the visits to attract others to create wealth.

“Let the states make their respective tourism boards effective,” he says.

On his part, Nkereuwem Onung, National President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), called for the release of a take-off grant for the new Ministry of Tourism.

“One of the bane of tourism development in Nigeria is lack of funding. Some state tourism budgets are higher than the federal tourism budget.

“I call on the federal government to release the take-off grant for the young ministry. We need a structured programme for the industry that will enable us to move on a predetermined trajectory.

Onung saaid going forward, the Key Performance Indicator (KPI) of the ministry should be made public while appropriate records of international arrivals, domestic tourism potential and delivery be made available to all.

According to him, this will aid the growth of the industry over time.

Tourism is one of the biggest economic activities in the world today. It involves the pursuit of recreation, relaxation, and pleasure while making use of the commercial provision of services.

The tourism industry with its enormous potential is capable of generating the needed employment opportunities for the teaming youth as well as engaging them in meaningful ventures.

Stakeholders said the industry, if well positioned, can successfully boost Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings through the development of inbound and outbound tourism.

They said while the government should be committed to taking deliberate and giant steps in creating an enabling environment for tourism businesses to thrive by making available the needed infrastructures and basic amenities, the private practitioners are meant to consolidate on this to build an attractive and formidable industry, capable of contributing significantly to economic growth. (NANFeatures)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

By Philip Yatai, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

The global community considered equality as not only a fundamental human right, but a necessary foundation for a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable world.

Based on this, the global community through Sustainable Development Goal, SDGs-5, seeks to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls by 2030.

According to the United Nations, women and girls represent half of the world’s population and half of its potential, adding that gender inequality persists everywhere and continues to stagnate social progress.

Similarly, gender advocates have argued that despite the contribution of women in development, they have been marginalised in many developing countries and their economic, social, political, and environmental potential under utilised.

In Nigeria, women participation and representation in governance and decision-making processes had remained very dismal, despite the long and consistent advocacy for women inclusion.

For instance, women’s representation in the 10th National Assembly is merely 7.4 per cent out of the 469 seats in the Senate and House of Representatives.

The situation is even more disturbing in the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), which placed women issues on the least of its priorities prior to President Bola Tinubu-led administration.

The FCTA had eight secretariats, namely Legal Services, Health and Environment. Education, Transport, Area Councils, Social Development, Agriculture and Rural Development, Economic Planning, Revenue Generation,

However, none of the secretariat was specifically designated to address the concerns of women and ensure their inclusion in governance and other spheres of life.

The issues of women and vulnerable groups were buried in the Gender Development Department under the Social Development Secretariat.

This is in contrast with developments at the Federal and state levels, where ministry of women affairs exist, and the government made budgetary provisions and designed programmes for women inclusion and empowerment.

Stakeholders pointed out that the absence of a women affair’s secretariat in the FCTA, did not only deny the women a voice, but also schemed them out of decision-making processes on matters that affect them.

To turn the tide, Mr Nyesom Wike, barely two months in office as the Minister of the FCT, noticed the gap and took steps to address it.

On Oct. 13, 2023, the minister announced President Bola Tinubu’s approval for the establishment of the Women Affairs Secretariat, 47 years after the establishment of the FCT.

According to him, women are critical to the development process of the country, stressing the need for a conscious step towards addressing their plight.

The minister said: “In the world that we are in today, how can you talk about good governance and development without including women?

Three days later, Wike announced President Tinubu’s approved for the appointment of Mrs Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi as the pioneer Mandate Secretary for the new secretariat.

“With your resumption, we can see that you are full of talent and experience, and that’s what we want you to bring to bear to help FCT, to have a place where women will also be part of the governance structure.

“We want to believe that women will appreciate this opportunity to also contribute to the renewed hope agenda,” Wike said.

For the pioneer mandate secretary, the task was huge, she, however said that the task was surmountable, with Tinubu, Wike, FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, and the First Lady, Sen. Remi Tinubu on her side.

Barely 100 days of steering the affairs of the secretariat, the mandate secretary reeled out impactful exploits that signalled a new dawn in the efforts to empower women and vulnerable groups in the FCT.

For example, to address Gender-Based Violence (GBV), the mandate secretary initiated a data reporting programme that resulted in a threefold increase in reported cases of GBV in just 100 days of existence.

The mandate secretary also secured approval for a dedicated day for adolescent girls, under the Adolescent Girl Child Empowerment programme.

The pilot project, according to the mandate secretary, benefitted more than 310 girls between the ages of 12 and 20.

Benjamins-Laniyi equally said that the Elderly Support Initiative also provided support to more than 250 individuals from ages 65 and above, with medical check-ups and cash interventions, including palliative support during festive seasons.

She also said that 20 women farmers were empowered with N500,000 each, under the first lady’s Renewed Hope Initiative’s Women Agricultural Empowerment programme.

She also announced the FCT Administration’s plans to revamp orphanages in the territory to international standards, to provide specialised care and support for children in vulnerable situations, particularly those with disabilities.

She said that the orphanages would be overhauled under a comprehensive initiative designed to redefine and upscale the services provided by orphanages across the FCT.

“Key components of the initiative include a thorough review of existing orphanages by a committee, focusing on recertification and adoption processes within the city.

“The secretariat is creating a future where every woman would realise her full potential, because no one was left behind.

“We have equally initiated an initiative tagged, Abuja Accelerator programme, to serve as a platform for proffering solutions to global challenges, borne out of a unique perspective and gender experiences.

“The Abuja Accelerator is our offering for collaboration. Invest your pilot project in Abuja, whatever it is, we are ready,” the mandate secretary said.

The FCT Minister of State, Mahmoud, explained that the Abuja Accelerator programme would serve as a beacon of ‘renewed hope’, offering a platform for women to come together, share their experiences and amplify their voices for meaningful change.

She added that the programme embodied the spirit of empowerment and progress for FCT women from all walks of life.

“It will provide a space where women from various backgrounds can converge, exchange ideas, and strategize on how to address pressing issues facing women globally.

“The strength of the Abuja accelerator lies in its ability to foster collaboration among women, by bringing together individuals with different perspectives and expertise,” she said.

The creation of the secretariat attracted applause from stakeholders, who described the initiative as critical to the inclusive development of the territory and leaving no one behind.

The Canada High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr James Chrisoff, commended Wike for taking the bold step to address challenges affecting women.

Chrisoff particularly described the establishment of the Women Affairs Secretariat in the FCT Administration as a “critical step” towards women empowerment and development.

Similarly, the UN Women has expressed optimism that the FCT Administration, under Nyesom Wike, would be a model for gender equality and women empowerment.

Its Representative to Nigeria, Beatrice Eyong, described the FCTA’s efforts toward unifying women from all walks of life as a laudable initiative.

Eyong, during the celebration of the UN Commission on the Status of Women @68, commended the minister of state and the mandate secretary for building partnerships and bringing women together to uplift their lives.

Also, its National Programme Officer, Patience Ekioba, during the pre-inauguration of Abuja Accelerator programme with the theme, “Unifying Women for Global Impact”, commended Tinubu for giving women a voice in his government.

In spite of the laudable achievements so far, stakeholders insisted that any development effort that does not give due consideration to the role of women would not achieve its full potential and run the risk of failure.

Mr Sameula Isopi, European Union Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, said it more aptly: “The active participation of women in decision-making and politics remains important if Nigeria is to achieve equality, sustainable development, peace, and democracy”.

Gender advocates insisted on the need for legal equality, economic empowerment, educational opportunities, and participation in decision making for women to play a significant role in the development of their communities. (NANFeatures)

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

By Ibironke Ariyo, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Drug and substance abuse, trafficking, and related criminal activities remain serious problems that affect the lives of a sizable number of Nigerians and are the most pervasive problems facing the nation currently.

The United Nations Office on Drug and Crime (UNODC) supported Drug Use Survey in Nigeria has revealed a drug use prevalence of 14.4 per cent in Nigerians aged between 15 and 64 years, almost three times the global drug use prevalence of 5.5 per cent.

Drug use is most common among those between the ages of 25 and 39 years, and the survey also found that a total of almost 3 million persons suffered from drug use disorder.

These statistics have since earned Nigeria a bad image globally with Nigerian travellers subjected to untoward treatments during international travels.

Worried by this negative reputation, President Bola Tinubu in concert with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, designed a scheme that combined prevention, treatment, and enforcement to break the cycle of substance abuse and crime.

During the 2023 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Tinubu said his administration would work closely with the NDLEA and its international partners to fight the menace of drug abuse.

He urged stakeholders to take a people-centred approach in addressing drug addiction, saying addicts were also humans who deserved understanding and support to recover from the downward path of drugs.

“I want to assure everyone including our local and international partners of this administration’s unwavering support for the sustenance of drug control efforts,” he had said.

The president also said interventions to address drug use and its associated consequences must recognise the individual and address the social stigma that comes with the menace.

He said persons struggling with drug abuse often faced barriers in accessing health care and social services within the society in addressing their drug use problems.

Therefore, he said interventions to address drug use and its associated consequences must be mindful of such individuals.

According to him, stigma, both social and structural, which is one of the most common barriers to access support and services must be removed.

He urged stakeholders to educate themselves and others on the dangers of drug abuse and the need to stop the stigmatisation and discrimination.

“We must empower our youths with the knowledge and skills they need to make informed decisions about their lives and the resources they need to avoid falling prey to drugs,” Tinubu said.

The NDLEA has since launched nationwide enforcement activities to seize drugs and arrest drug abusers.

The agency has also increased its sensitisation programme, rehabilitation, and border patrol to checkmate trafficking of illicit drugs to and from Nigeria.

The NDLEA has executed a relentless campaign against drug trafficking networks, resulting in unprecedented successes.

The agency’s recent report reveals the arrest of 52, 901 drug peddlers/traffickers including 48 barons, and the conviction of 9,034.

The report included seizures of more than 7,561,000kg of illicit drugs, N958 billion worth of cash and drugs seized across the 36 states and FCT.

The NDLEA FCT commander, Kabir Tsakuwa, said in 2023 alone, the agency arrested more than 500 suspects with more than 7,000 kilograms of assorted drug seizure as well as the conviction of more than 200 offenders.

Tsakuwa said in the first quarter of 2024, the agency arrested about 80 suspects, with more than 3, 000 kilograms of assorted drugs.

He said more than 50 individuals were prosecuted as 12 suspects were successfully convicted and sentenced to different jail terms.

The NDLEA’s efforts extend beyond mere enforcement, as demonstrated by their proactive approach to combating drug cultivation through initiatives such as the search-and-destroy campaign against cannabis plantations.

This approach had seen the destruction of more than 1,057.33348 hectares of cannabis farms.

The agency has also counselled and rehabilitated more than 32,404 drug users, with 948 houses, vehicles and other assets forfeited to the federal government.

Meanwhile, the Chairman /CEO of the NDLEA, retired Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa, lauded the president for his continuous support for the on-going efforts to curb the scourge of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in the country.

Marwa noted that the present administration had shown nothing but support to the agency in the fight against illicit drugs and substance abuse, peddling/trafficking.

Marwa noted that the agency was looking forward to some positive developments that would lend impetus to the attainment of its set objectives under the leadership of President Tinubu.

“One of such developments is the amendment of the NDLEA Act, which will significantly enhance the organisational capability of our agency in drug supply reduction.

“The hearing of the amended bill is making progress in the National Assembly, and we look forward to it scaling the final hurdle,” he said.

Tsakuwa also commended the Tinubu administration, saying his support to the agency assisted the command in recording a high level of success in the effort to rid the FCT of drug menace.

Similarly, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has celebrated the achievements of the NDLEA proclaiming it as a source of pride for President Tinubu’s administration.

HURIWA commended the accomplishments of NDLEA, recognising them as the most significant in its history and a testament to effective leadership and strategic partnerships.

“NDLEA under Marwa’s leadership is a beacon of excellence and a source of pride for President Tinubu’s administration,” the group said.

The association noted that the agency’s achievements under Marwa reflected concerted efforts toward realising the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all Nigerians.

NDLEA’s proactive measures, including the open destruction of seized illicit drugs in compliance with court orders, demonstrate transparency and accountability in its operations,” HURIWA said. (NANFeatures)

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

By Taiye Agbaje, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

On May 29 when his administration was inaugurated, president Bola Tinubu promised that his administration would carry out reforms that will have far-reaching implications for Nigerians.

Reforms in the economic sector such as fuel subsidy removal, the floating of naira and harmonisation of exchange rate have dominated the headlines.

However, Tinubu has, within this past one year, taken actions that have largely gone unnoticed but which experts say hold the prospect of repositioning the judiciary to meet the yearnings of Nigerians.

The reason for this is not unconnected to the saying that the judiciary is the bedrock of democracy and last hope of the common man.

For instance in December Tinubu recommended 11 Justices for appointment as Justices of the Supreme Court.

Following their confirmation by the National Assembly, Tinubu administration made history by becoming the first to ensure that the apex court has full complements of 21 Justices as required by law.

Section 230 (2) (b) of the 1999 constitution (As amended) provides that, “The Supreme Court of Nigeria shall consist of such number of Justices not exceeding 21 as may be prescribed by an Act of the National Assembly.”

There is no doubt that this will speed up the process of dispensing justice in a court where some cases could last for years.

It would also ensure that all parts of the country are fairly represented at the zenith of the nation’s litigation hierarchy.

Another major step taken by the Tinubu administration is the move to improve the welfare of judicial officers. It is a fact that in some cases there is coloration between poverty.

This becomes more challenging when one occupies an office when officers are tempted with financial inducement daily.

Perhaps it was against this background that on March 19, Tinubu sent a bill to the National Assembly proposing a new structure of salaries and allowances for judicial officers.

In the letter communicating the bill to the lawmakers, the president said the bill seeks to end the “prolonged stagnation” of the remuneration of judicial officers, adding that it will improve their welfare.

The letter was entitled “Transmission of judicial office holders’ salaries and allowances bill, 2024.

The transmission was in accordance with the provisions of section 58, sub-section two of the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended,”

“I forward herein, the judicial office holders, salaries and allowances bill, 2024, for the kind consideration of the senate.

“The judicial office holders salaries and allowances bill seeks to prescribe salaries and allowances and fringe benefits for judicial officials to end the prolonged stagnation in their remuneration and to reflect contemporary socio-economic realities.

“While I hope that the judicial office holders salaries and allowances bill 2024 will be carefully, yet expeditiously considered and passed by the senate”, Tinubu said in the letter read by Godswil Akpabio, the Senate President.

Bill which has been passed by the House of Representatives, seeks a 300 per cent increase in the salaries and allowances of judicial office holders.

Similarly, in June 2023, Tinubu signed another Constitution alteration bill which provides a unified retirement age for all judicial officers of superior courts of record.

The alteration provides that all pensions, allowances and other retirement benefits of judicial officers shall be charged to the Consolidated Revenue fund of the Federation and paid directly by the National Judicial Council (NJC).

Judicial experts say this will address a situation where payment of retirement benefits of state judges is left to the state governments to handle, and in many cases, these benefits are owed or delayed.

Tinubu’s actions have attracted applause from lawyers and other stakeholders in the judiciary.

A Lagos-based lawyer, Josephine Ijekhuemen, described the appointment of the 11 justices as “a positive development for easy and quicker dispensation of justice.”

She said before now, the apex court was left with 10 justices after the death of Justice Centus Nweze, and the retirements of Justices Amina Augie and Dattijo Muhammad.

“I welcome the president’s decision to Increase the number of justices of the Supreme Court as required by law,” Ijekhuemen said.

On the proposed increase in salaries and emoluments for judges, the human rights lawyer said the judiciary, being the third arm of government, also deserves to be well remunerated for services rendered.

“The approval for an increase in the allowance and remuneration of judges is equally a welcome development,” she added.

Another lawyer, Mr George Itodo, said Tinubu, so far, had done tremendously well by increasing the number of Supreme Court justices to 21.

He said “the appointment will ensure quick dispensation of cases as there will be more panels to hear cases.

“There will be early hearing and determination of cases. A situation where you have a matter at the Supreme Court and it will be going for 10 years will be a thing of the past.

“Because there will be more panels now, it makes things easier. Cases will be quickly dispensed with thereby promoting the course of justice.”

A legal expert, Mr Suleiman Lawal, urged judges to reciprocate the adjustment in their salaries and allowances through impartial and quick dispensation of justice.

However, some stakeholders say more still needs to be done to make the judiciary perform optimally.

Mr Paul Daudu, the Chairman of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Bwari Branch in Abuja, listed the challenges to include prolonged pre-trial detention, delayed trials, lack of access to legal representation and poor case management.

He said the problem also includes conflicting and perverse judgments for superior courts of record, unethical practices by some legal practitioners and law enforcement agents, amongst others.

According to him, there is indeed the perception by ordinary citizens that what presently operates in Nigeria is the ‘administration of law’ and not ‘’administration of justice.’

“The former being a system riddled by hybrid technicalities, legal jargon, cumbersome adjudicatory procedure and rhetoric,” he said.

He called on the legal practitioners, as guardians of the law, to reaffirm their commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring access to justice for all.

Other stakeholders say no reform in the judicial sector is complete without guaranteeing true independence of this third arm of government.

“The preservation of and non-interference with, the independence of the judiciary and the jurisdiction of the court are so important, if not indispensable’’, argues legal luminary, Afe Babalola, in a piece entitled “Role of a strong and Independent Judiciary in a Nation”. (NANFeatures)

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

One year after: the Legacy Man and his strides

By Bayo Onanuga
One year after being in the saddle, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will be the first person to admit that the ride has been bumpy.

He is also the first to say he is unfazed by the turbulence as he remains focused on the marathon of the next three years. The past year has been months of baby steps, months of laying the foundations for the next three years of canter.

As Nigeria’s 16th President, Tinubu, during his campaign for the office, said he would make difficult decisions and that running the country would not be business as usual.

From day one, he sought to fulfill his promises, beginning from his earthshaking ‘subsidy is gone’ announcement at the Eagle Square, on the day he was sworn in.

The announcement reverberated around the country and beyond. He was not just actualising a promise he made. He was also affecting the consensus of all the major candidates in the 2023 election that the several decades old, wasteful subsidy must end.

His administration followed this up with the decision to harmonise the foreign exchange rates. The multiple exchange rates executed under his predecessor had given room to various abuses, among which was arbitrage, where people close to the power loop made humongous money, getting forex at the official rate and offloading it at the so-called parallel market for almost 100 percent profit.

Both the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank advised the Nigerian government to end the policy, to no avail, as forex obligations piled up, FDI’s dried up, and investors shunned Nigeria. Tinubu knew that to reset the economy and build renewed confidence locally and internationally, there must be a policy change.

He took the measure, just as he promised during the campaign, with the government announcing that it wanted to harmonise the rates in ‘weeks’. The financial world took notice that Nigeria is at the cusp of great change.

Although it has taken months to achieve the harmony, with the Naira in the interregnum, taking a massive bashing from the dollar. The heavily hurt currency at a stage fell to about N1,900 to the dollar, with the naysayers and the opposition predicting a total destruction of the currency.

Their wish did not come to pass, as the currency rebounded to earn global acclaim as the world’s best performing currency. After weeks of amassing muscle against the US dollar, the Nigerian currency weakened again.

Now, the monetary authorities are working hard to ensure the currency did not fall into the abyss like it did in February, before the rebound.

Together with the abrogation of the subsidy regime, the forex harmonisation policy triggered an inflationary rage, with food inflation hitting unprecedented levels. Cost of living rose countrywide.

Some analysts, however, blamed the inflation on other factors such as insecurity that prevented farmers from going to farm and the poor state of roads, that escalated transportation costs, pushing up the costs of virtually everything.

The administration responded on many fronts with a raft of ameliorative policies. Last December, it offered subsidised bus transport and free train service to Nigerians going home for Christmas and New Year.

The subsidy was also offered for the return journeys. Over 200,000 Nigerians benefited from the bus service.

In agriculture, the government declared a food emergency, launched a massive dry season farming in important crops such as wheat and maize, along with assisting farmers with N100 billion worth of fertilisers.

The government released 43,000 metric tonnes of grains in the reserves and bought another 60,000 metric tonnes of rice from local millers for distribution to the people. States, rich individuals, National Assembly members joined in distributing food and cash to the vulnerable millions in the country. For months, food inflation resisted all the measures, hitting 33 percent in April.

Government also rejected the panicky measure of importing food, reposing confidence in the Nigerian farmers, that from their yields, Nigeria will overcome its food crisis. In recent weeks, the news from the markets has been that some food prices are going down.

As part of the ameliorative measures, the Tinubu administration announced wage awards of N35,000 to Federal workers to enable them cope with food inflation and transport costs, as it works out a new national minimum wage.

It announced in July last year the Presidential CNG Initiative. Under the programme, that will herald a new industry and new jobs, hundreds of buses and tricycles, which will be powered by Compressed Natural Gas(CNG), will be locally assembled for countrywide rollout. Some of the vehicles will be electric for use in some Nigerian states, where CNG is not readily available.

A panel to drive the vision was inaugurated in October 2023. However, bureaucratic delays slowed its procurement work. A large number of the buses and tricycles will be available as part of the ceremonies to mark the first anniversary of the Tinubu administration.

Businesses were not left out of government’s mitigation measures. The Bank of Industry, in conjunction with Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, is implementing Presidential Conditional Grant Programme for nano businesses.

Disbursement of N50,000 each to the applicants that registered began in April. Beneficiaries included retail marketers, corner shop owners, petty traders, market men and women, food and vegetable vendors, vulcanisers and and shoemakers. Over 1,000,000 nano businesses are targeted.

To help big businesses, Government announced an aid package of N1billion each to 75 of them.

The Tinubu government also approved $617 million for up-skilling Nigerian youths, providing startup funding, catalytic infrastructure, and policy advocacy. Youths with digital skills are now registering to benefit from the fund, being administered by the Bank of Industry.

In a country with 200 million people and tax to GDP ratio of less than 10 per cent, President Tinubu knew from day one, that it will be difficult to make any great, historic impact, if he fails to tinker with the tax structure and bring more money into the national purse.

He, therefore, announced his plan by setting up the Oyedele Committee on Tax and Fiscal Policy Reform, which is winding up its work and has recommended far-reaching reforms in the tax regime.

President Tinubu also changed the leadership of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to plug revenue holes and introduce creative ways to increase revenue without necessarily overburdening the people. The result has been astonishing.

Government now takes 50 per cent of the revenue of the MDAs, with record N840 billion recorded in the first quarter.

The NNPC was ordered to remit its dollar earnings into CBN. Revenue inflow generally is increasing. FIRS is working towards increasing the percentage of tax to GDP to about 20 per cent.

The inflow of money is making the Tinubu administration dream big and plan big.

With Renewed Hope Infrastructure Fund due for launch, the government is already embarking on legacy projects, such as the 700 kilometre Lagos-Calabar Coastal Superhighway, which began in March.

Government also plans to reactivate the Sokoto Illela-Badagry Superhighway, which was abandoned in 1976. Many roads and bridges in state of disrepair are to be refurbished. There are plans for rail.

Funding for the Ibadan-Abuja-Kaduna rail is being arranged. Port Harcourt-Maiduguri rail will be resuscitated while the Kano-Katsina-Maradi rail line, started by the Buhari administration will be completed with $2billion dollar loan already secured.

Government has not been short about rolling out several policy initiatives, from the issuance of travelling passports, which has been made quicker, to the planned implementation of some aspects of the Oronsaye report, to cut the costs of governance.

Notably, President Tinubu issued an executive order to enhance investment in the oil and gas sector. The quick fruits of the policy was the opening of three big gas plants in the Niger Delta by the President in recent weeks. Mega investments running into over $15 billion are expected in weeks.

The Tinubu administration has also fulfilled some of the campaign promises with the students loans and Credit Corp ready for take off.

To President Tinubu, no Nigerian child should be denied education because the parents could not afford it. He also hopes that the Credit Corp will enhance the purchasing power of workers and boost national commerce.

President Tinubu at various occasions has acknowledged the pains that some of his reforms are causing the generality of our people. But he says they are pains we must bear to make progress as a nation.

An ever caring leader, he is always evolving measures to help reduce the pains. Best of all, he listens to the voice of the people and make necessary adjustments.

In one of the most profound analysis of our situation and an endorsement of the reforms being executed by the Tinubu administration, Planning and Budget Minister, Atiku Bagudu said in a recent interview: “We want to be like Asian countries, we want to grow like Brazil but Brazil and those Asian countries that we want, (that) we are competing with, have taken measures that we needed to have taken decades ago.

“The president is even bold to acknowledge that. Let’s do it now. Some of these measures have consequences which we acknowledge. And that’s why again, a number of measures are introduced in order to ameliorate the situation.

“These measures are helpful to Nigeria, irrespective of North or South because they are to restore macroeconomic stability, to restore security in the country and make it better so that investors will feel confident.”

-Onanuga is Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Tinubu.

By Philomina Attah, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

When President Bola Tinubu decided to run for president on a Muslim-Muslim ticket alongside Vice President Kashim Shettima, it ignited a firestorm of controversy.

In a nation like Nigeria, where both Muslims and Christians hold significant demographic and cultural weight, this decision raised alarms about the potential exacerbation of religious tensions.

Critics had earlier argued that the exclusion of a Christian vice-presidential candidate might lead to feelings of marginalisation and discord.

Upon assuming office, the President made it a priority to balance his cabinet with diverse religious representations to prove his critics wrong.

Observers are of the view that over the past year, Tinubu’s administration has taken notable bold steps towards promoting religious harmony through balanced appointments, supportive policies, and interfaith dialogue.

According to them, he has ensured that the appointment of Christians and Muslims, among others, to key positions, are done in a relatively equitable and fair manner to allay any initial fears of religious marginalisation.

They say that this deliberate commitment to inclusivity is designed to carry everyone along to alleviate their fears and to further demonstrate that his administration represents all Nigerians, regardless of their faith.

Many posit that over the past 12 months, for instance, President Tinubu’s administration has highlighted policies promoting religious tolerance as a cornerstone of its governance strategy.

For many observers, the President’s initiatives of supporting interfaith dialogue and peace-building efforts have been central to these policies.

By fostering understanding and cooperation between different religious communities, they argue, the administration has sought to create a more harmonious national atmosphere.

For instance, in his public statements, President Tinubu has consistently emphasised the importance of national unity, while downplayed religious differences and focusing on the commonalities that bind Nigerians together.

His administration has actively engaged religious leaders from both Muslim and Christian communities, encouraging cooperation and mutual respect to reduce tensions.

Corroborating this viewpoint, Rev. Fr Kenneth Agwu, the Editor-in-Chief of the Good Shepherd Newspaper, a publication of the Catholic Archdiocese of Abuja, said that the Tinubu government has promoted religious harmony in Nigeria in spite of the initial controversy surrounding the Muslim-Muslim ticket.

Agwu noted that the president had appointed individuals from various religious backgrounds to key positions in the government to assuage any pre-election frayed nerves.

“This, to some extent, has ensured fair representation across different sectors. For instance, the appointment of ex-Rivers Governor, Nyesom Wike, as FCT Minister is innovative.

“Tinubu’s administration’s symbolic acts such as his active participation in major religious events and the holidays of various faiths to show respect and solidarity have gone a long way to bring about religious harmony.

“Earlier this year, for instance, he appealed to religious leaders to refrain from vilifying or denigrating the nation in their sermons, thereby publicly condemning acts of religious intolerance and violence,” Agwu recalled.

Speaking in the same vein, Mohammed Eze, Deputy National Legal Adviser, Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, said that Tinubu’s policies have promoted religious harmony, notwithstanding the initial misgivings that trailed his riding to power on the back of a Muslim-Muslim ticket.

Eze, an Abuja-based lawyer and Igbo Muslim from Enugu State, lauded Tinubu’s strong support for interreligious interventions like the Nigerian Inter Religious Council, NIREC, a government-supported platform for the two most dominant religions in Nigeria.

“It is a place where they brainstorm on the way forward and how to ease understanding and make extinct the extremism that is seen in certain quarters, whether among Muslims or Christians,” Eze stressed.

Rev. Fr Lawrence Emehel, Secretary of Inter-Religious Dialogue at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN), said that Tinubu’s government has strengthened religious tolerance in the country.

He, however, urged the government to be more deliberate in supporting the youths, especially the NIREC Youth Forum, adding that there was no harm in the government being part of NIREC, except taking over or controlling the body.

“The government should rather support it directly or indirectly since most programmes involve youths. The youth wing of NIREC is filled with vibrant youths who raise a lot of awareness and arouse the nation’s consciousness to the importance of tolerance.

“These youths are Christians and Muslims working actively together to promote religious tolerance, peace, and dialogue.

“When an article is posted on the internet, go to the comment section. You will agree with me that youths have more engagement,” Emehel said.

A recent development, when Vice President Kashim Shettima, a Muslim, inaugurated the board of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC) has been described as novel and commendable in advancing religious harmony.

Inaugurating the Board at the Presidential Villa, Shettima reinforced the administration’s resolve to uphold religious freedom and interfaith dialogue, stressing that Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity of faiths.

He recalled President Tinubu’s promise when he assumed office that his government would have no place for discrimination.

The vice president vowed that there will be no discrimination under the Tinubu-led government, saying “Nigeria is what it is because it is a nation of God, stressing that spirituality was of prevailing interest”.

Shettima urged the new NCPC board members to be unifying figures dedicated to promoting interfaith harmony through compassion, justice, and mutual respect.

The vice president assured that the Tinubu’s administration was fervently committed to ensuring that interfaith harmony remained the ultimate priority.

“Regardless of anyone’s position, the place of faith in the nation is not only critical but provides a framework for comfort among citizens and for the stability of the nation at large.

“Our duty is to provide a safe haven for members of each faith and uphold the rights and freedoms in our constitution.

“We can only emerge stronger and be more resilient as a nation through dialogue, empathy, and reconciliation,” Shettima said.

Mrs Asabe Musa, a trader in Lafia, Nasarawa State, expressed support for Tinubu’s inclusive appointments, as well as his engagements in interfaith dialogue.

She, however, noted that notwithstanding Tinubu’s encouraging, courageous, and genuine efforts towards ensuring religious harmony during his first year in office, this has not been without its challenges.

According to her, religious violence and tensions have continued to plague parts of the country, and these challenges underscore the difficulty of achieving lasting religious harmony in a nation as diverse as Nigeria.

“Scepticism remains among some Christians, particularly those concerned about the initial Muslim-Muslim ticket.

“They continue to fear marginalisation, and so this calls for more tangible actions to address religious violence and discrimination,” she said.

Mr Bala Dogo, a lawyer, agrees that Tinubu’s first year in office, has been marked by a concerted effort to foster religious harmony, in spite of the initial controversy which trailed his choice of a Muslim-Muslim ticket.

He said that through his inclusive appointments, policies promoting tolerance, and active interfaith dialogue, Tinubu has made significant strides in addressing religious tensions.

“While challenges persist, the administration’s commitment to unity and its engagement with both religious leaders and youth groups underscore a proactive approach to achieving lasting peace and understanding in Nigeria’s diverse religious landscape,” Dogo said.

Observers are, therefore, of the view that President Tinubu has in his first year in office, succeeded to a large extent, in ensuring religious harmony in Nigeria.

They noted, however, that the quest for a lasting religious harmony in the country continues to be a complex and critical endeavour, which he should address differently for best results as he enters his second year in office. (NANFeatures).

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

By Ismail Abdulaziz, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)
A popular Yoruba proverb says, “Tita, riro la a kola, boba jina tan, a doge”; meaning, tribal marks are incised with serious pains, when it heals, it becomes fashionable.

Tribal marks in those days were meant for identification and mostly for fashion. However, the process of incision was very painful and bloody, but when the wound healed, it became a symbol of beauty and pride to the carrier.

The proverb is used to instruct that nothing good and beautiful comes easy; anything that will elevate comes with some degree of pains and hardship.

Upon assumption of office on May 29, 2023, the President took some difficult steps at reforming the nation’s economy, which he said, they were to avert a looming fiscal crisis.

Tinubu announced the discontinuation of the decade-long subsidy on petrol, which he said, had become unsustainable.

He, equally announced the unification of exchange rate, which he described as”the removal of the chokehold of few people on our foreign exchange system that benefitted  only the rich and the most powerful among us”.

He assured Nigerians that the harsh economic realities would not last long, as his reforms would yield the desired results.

“In order to turn things around, you have been selected to perform your utmost best.

“Our policy implementation will reform the economy, ensure inclusive growth, and strengthen security for peace and prosperity. Without security, there can be no investment,” he said.

The President noted that, economy, which is the core of all aspect of life, investment opportunities and incentives for Micro, Small and Medium-scale enterprises was the starting point of the administration.

The Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment was made the focal point in handling the various aspects, including Investment Strategy and Infrastructure Development and launching of the Presidential Council on Industrial Revitalization.

Through the ministry, the federal government  took key initiatives at accelerating economic growth, job creation, and access to capital.

It inaugurated the Nigerian Trade Facilitation Committee (NTFC) to enhance efficiency in trade facilitation, collaborating with various MDAs like Nigerian Customs and the Central Bank of Nigeria.

The Tinubu’s administration  developed a Resurgence Plan for the Nigerian Cotton, Textile, and Apparel Industry and is actively promoting local production through the Backward Integration Programme.”

It inaugurated the Nigeria Diaspora Fund to attract investments and support the economic goals of the administration was set in motion by the ministry.

The government implemented reforms to ensure food security through the Nigeria Commodities Exchange (NCX), benefiting farmers and the agricultural value chain.

For job Creation and Skills Development, it created a National Job Portal to match industry vacancies with the talent pool.

It initiated the National Talent Export Program (NATEP) to create one million jobs through talent exchange and outsourcing.

The government also facilitated the disbursement of N200 billion in grants and loans to MSMEs and manufacturers under a Presidential Palliative Programme and streamlined business registration processes to be completed within 24 hours at the Corporate Affairs Commission.

On the relationship with the international engagement and partnership, it concluded significant agreements at the G20 summit in India, securing $14 billion in FDI.

The administration also engaged with various countries to open up avenues for investment and partnership opportunities, including agreements with Qatar and the United Kingdom.

Notably, the investments included, Indorama Petrochemical’s 8 billion dollar expansion and Jindal Steel’s 3 billion dollar commitment in the steel sector.

The Tinubu’s administration supported these economic initiatives with the bulwark of a holistic framework that seeks to comprehensively address various aspects of insecurity.

Tinubu pledged to prioritise national defence and internal security, local job creation, macro-economic stability, investment environment optimisation, human capital development, poverty reduction, and social security in his first budget of Renewed Hope.

This agenda includes provisions for bolstering security forces, implementing community-based security initiatives, promoting socio-economic development, and fostering inter-communal dialogue to address grievances and foster reconciliation.

Also, through the Renewed Hope Agenda, the government is tackling the underlying causes of insecurity by addressing issues such as poverty, unemployment, social marginalisation, and ethnic tensions.

In line with emplacing a secured society,, government also premised its strategies on the reform of the Nigerian Police Force, enhancement of local policing capabilities, implementation of peace building programmes, and promotion of dialogue and reconciliation fora.

From the foregoing, the Tinubu’s administration’s economic and security strategies, have shown faith in its pledge to ensure a better Nigeria of our dream.

Notwithstanding the pains, as likened to the tribal marks incision, the first year of the Tinubu administration can be said to have shown good faith in its quest to bequeath a legacy of hope.

Little wonder, Vice President Kashim Shettima recently, at a fora, said Nigerians would be grateful to Tinubu for the resilience and foresight displayed in navigating the nation towards economic prosperity.

In conclusion, all hands must, therefore, be on deck,in supporting the administration, going forward, as it navigates the troubled waters to bequeath a renewed hope and future for the country (NAN Features)

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