News Agency of Nigeria
Reshaping Africa’s mineral future through value addition
Features

Reshaping Africa’s mineral future through value addition

By Martha Agas, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Africa holds about 30 per cent of the world’s mineral resources.

However, most of these are exported in raw form, earning the continent only a small share of their eventual market value.

Analysts say this pattern has created a structural imbalance, where African countries end up re-importing high value finished products made from their own raw materials at higher costs.

For example, Zambia exports nearly 80 per cent of its copper in unprocessed form, only to import copper-based goods such as cables and electrical equipment.

Similarly, Guinea holds some of the world’s largest reserves of bauxite, used in aluminium production, but undertakes very little local refining, resulting in a continued reliance on imported aluminium products.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which supplies more than 70 per cent of the global cobalt used in lithium-ion batteries, also exports mainly raw or semi-processed cobalt hydroxide.

Consequently, it captures only a fraction of the total value chain, while importing expensive battery components and electronics.

In Nigeria, the trend is no different.

According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), in 2023, more than 90 per cent of the country’s export value came from unprocessed mineral products, mostly ores and concentrates exported in raw form.

Similarly, the World Trade Organisation (WTO) estimates that Africa’s exports of intermediate goods (excluding fuels) were worth 312 billion dollars in 2022.

These exports, which include ores, precious stones, and agricultural commodities, continue to supply global industries but contribute little to local industrialisation.

Stakeholders argue that this persistent outflow of raw materials, especially crucial minerals, sustains industries abroad while depriving African nations of opportunities for value addition, job creation, and inclusive development.

In spite of this wealth, Africa continues to rank low on global development indices.

The latest UN Human Development Report 2023/24 shows that more than half of the world’s 20 lowest-ranked countries are in Africa.

In Sub-Saharan Africa, approximately 37 per cent of the population lives on less than 2.15 dollars per day.

Experts contend that this trend must be reversed if Africa is to fully harness its mineral wealth for development.

With the region holding many of the world’s critical minerals needed for the global energy transition, the timing for reform is urgent.

They advocate a shift from raw material exports to the production of high value finished goods.

Such a strategy, they note, would not only boost export earnings but also meet local development needs, including access to clean energy, job creation, and improved infrastructure.

Prof. Shekwonyadu Iyakwari, an expert in Applied Mineralogy and Exploration Geology at the Federal University of Lafia, revealed another concern.

He noted that many ore deposits in Nigeria contain multiple valuable minerals, yet companies often declare only one or two for export.

“When companies start processing here, we will see that what we allow them to export is beyond what is declared. Processing locally will go a long way in helping our economy,” he said.

Meanwhile, civil society organisations continue to warn that this pattern of external dependency, what they call a ‘mineral heist’ will persist unless unfair trade structures, weak governance, and limited local value addition are urgently addressed.

To change this narrative, several African countries are taking steps to retain more value from their resources.

Many governments are now revisiting old mining agreements and renegotiating terms to ensure fairer conditions, greater local content, and increased domestic processing.

For instance, Zambia and the DRC have come under growing pressure to review contracts with foreign mining firms.

Both countries are currently exploring joint initiatives to establish local battery manufacturing plants, aiming to capture more value from their copper and cobalt resources (Bloomberg Africa Mining Report, 2023).

In Nigeria, the Federal Government introduced a value addition policy in 2024 under the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

The policy requires mining companies to submit clear plans for local processing before they can obtain operating licences (Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals).

The Minister of Solid Minerals, Mr Dele Alake, has also championed regional cooperation.

On January 9, 2024, during the third Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh, he unveiled the Africa Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG) with 16 African countries as founding members.

According to Alake, the AMSG seeks to empower African nations to collectively shape policies and fully benefit from their mineral wealth through harmonised strategies and cooperation.

This momentum continued at the fourth edition of the African Natural Resources and Energy Investment Summit (AFNIS), held from July 15 to 17, under the theme: ‘Harnessing Local Content for Sustainable Development’.

The summit focused on shifting Africa’s mineral development model, from exporting raw materials to building local industries, refining minerals, generating energy, and creating jobs.

In its communiqué, participants resolved to prioritise local content and build strong domestic value chains, especially in mineral processing and industrialisation.

“AFNIS 2025 served as a vital platform for African nations and the private sector to reinforce their commitment to the inclusive, sustainable, and value-driven development of their natural resources and energy sectors.

“This is to ensure that the continent’s immense wealth benefits its people,” the communique read.

Delegates also agreed to mobilise domestic capital to fund strategic projects through a new initiative known as the ‘Africans for Africa’ fund.

This is expected to strengthen African ownership of natural resources and reduce reliance on foreign exploration firms.

The summit explored ways to better harness local resources, from minerals and renewable energy to skilled human capital to drive sustainable economic growth.

Discussions also focused on accelerating access to renewable energy, closing the energy access gap, and expanding partnerships and investment in the green economy.

In addition, African mining ministers and CEOs of leading mining companies pledged to expand regional mineral testing infrastructure and proposed the creation of joint industrial corridors and shared processing facilities.

These are expected to scale up local beneficiation and reduce export dependency.

Experts believe that if current value addition efforts across Africa are sustained, more companies will be established to manufacture finished goods from the continent’s vast natural resources.

Thus, unlocking a new era of industrial growth and inclusive development. (NANFeatures)

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

 

ADC coalition: How long can the euphoria last?
Features

ADC coalition: How long can the euphoria last?

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

How long can the euphoria that greeted the recent official adoption of African Democratic Congress (ADC) as the platform for the 2027 general elections by some key opposition figures in Nigeria last?

This is the germane question agitating the minds of some analysts and watchers of the unfolding political events in the country.

The political gladiators, after months of speculations, behind-the-scenes meetings and shifting of political alliances, eventually reached the decision, amidst pomp and pageantry, clicking of glasses and hysterical handshakes, to ride to power, come 2027 on the crest of their adopted party, ADC.

The opposition figures, led by former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, included a former Transportation Minister, Rotimi Amaechi, ex-Governor Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State and former Justice Minister, Abubakar Malami.

The coalition’s roll call extended to other notable political heavyweights such as: ex-Governors Aminu Tambuwal (Sokoto), Liyel Imoke (Cross River), Gabriel Suswam (Benue), Emeka Ihedioha (Imo), Celestine Omehia (Rivers) and former APC National Chairman, John Oyegun.

A former Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mohammed Abubakar, Sen. Ireti Kingibe, a former SGF, Babachir Lawal, Sen. Aishatu Binani; media entrepreneur, Dele Momodu, Sen. Dino Melaye; Prof. Olusola Eleka and Sen. Ishaku Abbo, among others, were also part of the coalition.

The adopted political party, ADC, which had hitherto been in relative obscurity, had since been taken over by the coalition leaders, with a former Senate President, David Mark and former Osun Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, emerging as the Interim National Chairman and Interim National Secretary respectively.

A former Minister of Youth and Sports, Bolaji Abdullahi, who was also appointed as the coalition’s Spokesperson, had since swung into action, holding news conferences and issuing press statements on various national issues on behalf of the party.

To demonstrate their enthusiasm and seriousness with their new move, some of the coalition leaders, particularly Atiku, Mark, Aregbesola, Malami and Amaechi have since announced their resignation from their former political parties.

However, others like El-Rufai and the 2023 presidential candidate of Labour Party, Peter Obi, have yet to publicly quit their former parties, even though they are key players in the coalition arrangement.

The party itself appears not to be taking things lying low, as it has unveiled plans to launch what it called a nationwide state convergence of coalition partners.

The convergence, according to ADC, is aimed at bringing together political parties, civil society organisations, labour unions and citizens aligned with its vision ‘for a united, inclusive political movement’.

However, there appears to be growing concerns about the possibility of ADC serving as a veritable hub for the 2027 race.

Indeed, analysts are somewhat sceptical that the euphoria, nay honeymoon, that greeted the coalition may, after all, pale into insignificance, basing their scepticism on certain developments soon after the arrangement was made public.

For instance, they said that no sooner had the opposition figures announced the birth of the coalition than three of the principal promoters: Abubakar, Obi and Amaechi announced their interest in seeking ADC’s presidential ticket.

According to the analysts, the declaration of presidential interest by the leaders, aside being too early, especially in a party that had just been adopted, may be also give them away as being too desperate and power-hungry.

They expressed the fear that if not properly handled, individual ambitions among the political gladiators may put paid to whatever might be the motive behind the coalition arrangement, thus constituting the beginning of the problem for the party.

Perhaps another issue is the need for the leadership of the party to state, in clear term, what it stands for and what it is offering Nigerians, better than the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

“For this coalition to stand out, it must earn its legitimacy. And that legitimacy will come from clarity,” said a public affairs analyst, Halimah Sanda.

“What does the coalition stand for? Beyond the goal of defeating the APC, what is it offering? How will it handle education, health, security, jobs and the economy?

“What percentage of key positions is being set aside for young Nigerians, not just as foot soldiers but as true decision-makers?”

“Beyond the headlines and the handshake photos, this is really about us (Nigerians), about what kind of leadership is being imagined for the next generation. Whether it’s true change or another recycled script, the story is still being written.

“A storm is brewing, still in the end, what truly matters is nurturing a democratic culture where ideas compete, service defines politics, and both rivalry and friendship are rooted in dignity,” Sanda stated.

Also, a former presidential media aide, Laolu Akande, argued that the party has failed to provide any compelling reason to convince Nigerians that it offers a credible alternative to the ruling APC.

According to him, the coalition is largely comprised of familiar political figures who are driven more by personal grievances than genuine national interest.

“I think the APC has better arrangements,” Akande said, emphasising that the opposition’s main goal appears to be ousting President Bola Tinubu without offering concrete alternative to Nigerians.

He also queried the presence of those he called career politicians at the helm of the opposition movement, noting that they are unlikely to inspire public confidence.

Speculations are also rife that Obi may eventually dump the opposition coalition and probably fly the Labour Party’s presidential ticket as he did in 2023.

One of those behind the speculations, Benjamin Kolowei, an activist and leader of the South-South Emerging Leaders’ Forum, said that Obi has been trying to compel ADC to zone its presidential ticket to the South.

Kolowei noted that if the former governor does not succeed in swinging the presidential ticket to the south, he may eventually quit the coalition and seek refuge in another party, possible Labour Party.

This might have given rise to the belief in some quarters that Obi’s game plan is to continue with the coalition arrangement while still maintaining his membership of Labour Party.

This belief may after all not be out of place, as Obi was in Awka during the recent official flag-off of the campaign of Anambra governorship candidate of Labour Party, Dr George Muoghalu.

Besides, the appearances of Obi’s vice-presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Dr Datti Baba-Ahmed particularly at the activities of the Julius Abure-faction of Labour Party is also largely seen as probably being part of the plans to court the faction for his possible come-back.

For Amaechi, who has also been canvassing a four-year single term like Obi, anyone who emerges as the presidential flag bearer of the party should be supported, going by his recent pronouncements.

Given his political antecedents, Atiku may not want to back down from the pursuit of the ADC presidential ticket, irrespective of the position of Obi, Amaechi or any other leader of the party.

Analysts, however, believe that the handling of the imminent clash of interests on who flies ADC’s presidential ticket among the political gladiators by the party leadership will go a long way in determining how long the hysteria that had greeted the coalition arrangement will last.

According to them, it will also largely determine the readiness or otherwise of the party, which has once again been shot into national prominence, in serving as a veritable vehicle for actualising the mission of the promoters of the coalition arrangement toward the 2027 general elections. (NANFeatures)

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

Judicial pronouncements and burden of clarity
Features

Judicial pronouncements and burden of clarity

By Chijioke Okoronkwo, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

The ambiguity surrounding some recent court judgments has accentuated the call for clarity in judicial pronouncements.

No doubt, over the years, the judiciary has creditably acquitted itself as the final arbiter.

The judicial has held its head high in resolution of disputes, interpretation of laws, binding decisions, enforcement of rights, finality of judgments, check and balances, inter alia.

However, perceptive stakeholders are worried that when court judgments are not concise and clear-cut, they create room for multiple, jaundiced and conflicting interpretations.

In such situations, the parties torpedo the ambiguous judgments to suit their interests, making enforcement an uphill task.

In the prevailing context, court judgments on Senate vs Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and the Labour party leadership tussle come to the fore.

In the latter, both Julius Abure and Sen. Nenadi Usman lay claim to victory after the Supreme Court judgment; in the former, Akpoti-Uduaghan claims the court ordered her reinstatement while the Senate insists there is no subsisting court order mandating the Senate to recall her.

Following a July 4 judgment, Akpoti-Uduaghan made an attempt to resume legislative activities at the National Assembly on July 22 but was prevented by armed security agents at the complex entry points.

Irked by the uncertainty, a member of the House of Representatives, Rep. Clement Jimbo, (APC- Akwa Ibom), called for further judicial clarity in the ongoing legal impasse involving leadership of the Senate and suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan.

He made the call in a motion on personal explanation raised during plenary recently.

Jimbo called for greater clarity and consistency in the delivery of judicial judgments across Nigeria, alleging increasing trend of court judgments being delivered with “ambiguities subject to different interpretations.”

He argued that court judgments should be simple, without ambiguity and not open to multiple interpretations, as it could sow confusion and weaken the rule of law.

Jimbo warned that the judiciary’s credibility was at stake if judgments continued to lack the clarity necessary for enforcement, especially in politically sensitive cases.

“As members of parliament with the constitutional mandate to make laws for the good governance, prosperity and security of our nation, it is imperative we draw attention to these perceived inconsistencies from our judiciary.

“There is also an urgent need to recalibrate the template on which judgments of our courts are written, expressed and delivered, to clearly convey the intentions of our judges,” he said.

Legal practitioners are also weighing on the puzzle of clarity in court verdicts.

Prof. Mike Ozekhome, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, (SAN), said it had become imperative for the courts to avoid opacity in making pronouncements.

He said that such clarity would not create room for misinterpretations and obduracy

“The various courts should make orders explicit, clear, lucid, unambiguous and intelligible in such a way that no doubt is entertained as to the import and purport of the judgment.

“Many Nigerians do not ordinarily desire to obey court judgments; it becomes worse if a window of opportunity, however tiny, is opened for them through ambiguous judgments.

“They will quickly latch on it and continue their intransigence and contumacy,’’ he said.

Some legal luminaries, however, argue that such confusion emanates from deliberate angling of judgments by the parties.

Uchenna Njoku, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), said that just like laws everywhere, Nigerian laws were not self-enforcing.

“We need to have good disposition to comply with the laws; to see to it that the letters of the laws are properly observed and kept, the same with court judgments

“The judgments of their lordships are clear; they are lucid.

“When you see different interpretations, more often than not, it is parties skewing interpretations of the judgment in a manner to favour a position they want to project.

“But the court judgments are clear; their lordships are trained in the art of delivering judgments that are lucid.

“As we read the law reports, we see clearly what their lordships have said.’’

He said that the solution lied in avoiding subjective interpretations of court judgments.

Njoku argued that the parties know the issues that were submitted to the court.

“When you read the judgment, it is those issues that the court determined.

“Stay within the issues; often than not, you see people take the judgment and begin to foist it on circumstances that were not considered in that case.

“This is why, long ago, and in several decisions after decisions, the Supreme Court has warned: do not take what is decided in a case to foist on another where the facts and circumstances are different; do not give interpretation outside what is on the face of the document.”

According to him, the courts are lucid in their judgments.

He said it behooved on the parties to be honest in approaching what the courts had said.

“For example, if I go to court today and the issue I have presented borders on trespass, if the court determined that issue was trespass, that is where I should stay within.

“The court may not have addressed the issue of ownership because I did not present the issue of ownership.

“Let the judgment say what it says on the face of it and let everybody go with it.

“Of course, if parties have issues as to interpretation of a judgment, they go back to the court and ask for any clarification, if any of such arises.

“But more often than not, on the things I have seen being interpreted here and there, I think if we want to be sincere to ourselves, we can see clearly what the court has said,’’Njoku said.

In the broader perceptive, the issue of ambiguity in court judgments is not limited to Nigeria alone; it is almost a global concern.

Writing for the Bar&Bench, a publication of the Indian Judiciary, Ummar Jamal, made submissions that aptly correlate with the Nigerian situation.

Jamal said that complex legal language obscured the rationale behind judicial decisions, leading to a lack of transparency within the legal system.

“When judgments are written in clear, simple language, they become more transparent, allowing citizens to understand the basis for court rulings.

“This transparency fosters trust in the judiciary and holds judges accountable for their decisions, as they are required to articulate their reasoning in a manner accessible to all.

“Judgments serve not only as legal precedents, but also as guides for compliance and implementation.

“When judgments are written in easy language, it becomes easier for individuals, organisations and government agencies to understand their rights and obligations under the law.

“Clarity in legal documentation reduces the likelihood of misinterpretation or confusion, thereby promoting adherence to court rulings and facilitating the effective enforcement of laws.’’

He said, on contrary to that, complex judgments often led to prolonged legal battles and appeals, as parties struggled to decipher the legal reasoning behind court decisions.

Jamal said that by writing judgments in easy language, judges could minimise ambiguity and streamline the adjudicative process.

“Clear, comprehensible judgments reduce the likelihood of appeals based on misunderstandings or misinterpretations, thereby promoting efficiency within the judicial system and alleviating the burden on courts.

“The Imperative to write judgments in easy language is not merely a matter of linguistic preference; it is a fundamental aspect of ensuring access to justice for all members of society.

“By prioritising clarity and simplicity in legal documentation, judges can democratise the law, foster transparency and accountability, promote legal literacy, and enhance the overall effectiveness of the judiciary,’’ Jamal said.

By the aforesaid, it is the view of legal pundits and other stakeholders that lucid, straightforward verdicts will quicken closure in conflicts and also, where applicable, accelerate the decision of whether to appeal or not. (NANFeatures)

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

Super Falcons’ 0,000 Reward: Justified honour or excessive gesture?
Features

Super Falcons’ $100,000 Reward: Justified honour or excessive gesture?

Super Falcons’ $100,000 Reward: Justified honour or excessive gesture?

 

 

 

 

By Kamal Tayo Oropo, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

 

 

 

When the final whistle blew at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, on Saturday, July 26, 2025, the Super Falcons of Nigeria stood triumphant.

 

 

 

They had edged host Morocco 3–2 in a thrilling final, capturing their record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title.

 

 

 

Jubilant scenes followed across Nigeria — from Lagos, Imo, and other states street corners to social media timelines — with widespread praise for the team’s resilience and brilliance.

 

But beyond the celebrations, a national debate began: did the government go too far in showering the players with the amount of rewards they got ?

 

Each Super Falcons player was awarded a $100,000 cash bonus, house, new SUV, national honour, and additional gifts from various state governments.

 

 

 

Some Nigerians praised the gesture as long overdue. Others questioned whether such largesse was fitting in the context of national hardship.

 

The Super Falcons have been Africa’s most dominant women’s football team, appearing in all WAFCON tournaments since 1998 and winning ten of fifteen editions.

 

They reached the FIFA Women’s World Cup knockout stages and represented Nigeria at Olympic Games — often doing so without the privileges given to male teams.

 

In spite of these, the team have frequently been neglected or underappreciated by football authorities and the government alike.

 

Following their 2016 WAFCON win, the Falcons refused to leave their Abuja hotel, protesting unpaid bonuses until authorities responded.

 

Again in 2023, before the Women’s World Cup, players protested unpaid match fees and allowances — drawing global attention to their struggles.

 

Veteran defender Onome Ebi once remarked: “We give everything, yet we’re always fighting just to be seen, to be heard.”

 

According to supporters of the recent government reward, it’s not only fair — it’s long overdue.

 

“They’ve carried the nation’s flag high for decades,” says former captain Florence Omagbemi. “This generation deserves to be celebrated, not questioned.”

 

Sports Analyst Bukola Olajide sees the gesture as more than money. “It’s about telling young girls across Nigeria that their dreams are valid and valuable.”

 

Several argue that the reward brings the women’s team closer to parity with their male counterparts, who have historically enjoyed more attention and funding.

 

During the 2013 AFCON victory, male players reportedly received ₦10 million each, plots of land, and national honours.

 

Likewise, in 1996, after the Olympic football gold in Atlanta, the government awarded houses, vehicles and cash to every team member.

 

“In context,” Olajide adds, “the $100,000 reward isn’t excessive — it’s deserved, if not overdue.”

 

Yet, the reward has stirred unease in some quarters as critics argue that while celebrating sports is important, context matters — especially during economic downturns.

 

With inflation surging, public debt rising, and citizens facing mounting hardship, the optics of multi-million-dollar giveaways have been questioned.

 

“Teachers are on strike, hospitals are short of drugs, and security forces are unpaid,” says Dr Musa Audu, an Economist at the University of Abuja. “This sends the wrong signal.”

 

Stressing that national pride is important, he adds, “so is fiscal responsibility and fairness in public policy”.

 

 

 

Others have called attention to how the reward culture neglected other sectors.

 

“Do we reward inventors, surgeons, or science Olympiad winners the same way?” Grace Ekanem, an Education Advocate, asks.

 

 

 

She adds, “What we celebrate reflects our values. It’s time Nigeria developed a more balanced reward system for excellence.”

 

To determine whether Nigeria’s reward is excessive, comparisons with other nations help.

 

After winning the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025, England’s Lionesses were awarded a £1.7 million bonus pool by the Football Association (FA).

 

 

 

Each player received around £75,000, alongside £2,000 match fees per game — totalling £87,000 per player.

 

 

 

The British government did not give direct financial rewards, but held a Downing Street reception and organised a public celebration along The Mall in London.

 

They also launched a new girls football initiative, committing funds to school programmes, access to pitches, and facility upgrades across England.

 

 

 

South Africa’s women’s team, Banyana Banyana, received R10 million (about $550,000) in 2022 for winning WAFCON — distributed among the squad.

 

India’s Neeraj Chopra received over $800,000, land and job offers after winning gold at the Tokyo Olympics.

 

Singapore awarded swimmer Joseph Schooling S$1 million (around $740,000) for his 2016 Olympic gold — one of the highest athlete rewards globally.

 

The U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee offers $37,500 for gold, $22,500 for silver, and $15,000 for bronze — though endorsements often multiply those sums.

 

 

 

Experts insist the real concern isn’t the reward itself, but Nigeria’s absence of a transparent, structured rewards framework for all fields of national achievement.

 

Currently, athlete rewards are often ad hoc, political, and inconsistent, depending on the moment or mood of leadership.

 

 

“There’s no national policy outlining who gets rewarded, how much, and under what conditions,” says a Sports Development Consultant, Ayodele Bakare.

 

 

 

He argues for a National Honour and Reward Policy, covering sports, science, education, arts and public service.

 

 

 

Such a policy will reduce public discontent, depoliticise recognition, and ensure equitable treatment of achievers across sectors.

 

 

 

“It’s not about reducing rewards.

 

“It’s about making them fair, accountable, and strategic,” Bakare says.

 

Had the government failed to honour the Super Falcons after this historic win, it could have reignited old tensions between the team and the state.

 

Such neglect will send the wrong message about how Nigeria values women’s sports, particularly in a society still struggling with gender inequality.

 

It can also deter future participation, demoralise young female athletes, and signal to sponsors and partners that the country is not serious about women’s football.

 

Ex International Perpetua Nkwocha warns: “Without recognition, the next generation may not show up.”

 

Rewarding the Falcons is not merely a feel-good move — it’s a strategic investment in the future of sports and youth development.

 

The national debate sparked by the Falcons’ reward isn’t just about money — it’s about what kind of country Nigeria aspires to be.

 

A nation that celebrates excellence across all walks of life?

 

Or one where recognition is random, lopsided, and politically driven?

 

Citizens like Grace Ekanem hopes this moment spurs a broader conversation.

 

“Let’s build a country where excellence in science, art, education and public service gets equal honour.”

 

From classrooms to clinics, labs to football pitches, achievers deserve to be seen, valued and uplifted.

 

 

 

Whether $100,000 is too much, too little or just right is ultimately subjective. What’s clear is that Nigeria needs a structured, inclusive and transparent reward culture.

 

This win should be more than just a celebration — it should be a catalyst for policy reform that ensures all excellence is recognised, no matter the field.

 

The Super Falcons have done their part. Now it’s Nigeria’s turn to step up — with vision, fairness, and lasting commitment.(NANFeatures)

 

 

 

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

Food security: Nigeria, IFAD begin value chain dev’t programme
Features

Food security: Nigeria, IFAD begin value chain dev’t programme

By Salisu Sani-Idris
The Federal Government, in partnership with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), will fast track the process of starting the Value Chain Development Programme in Northern Nigeria.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima said this during a bilateral meeting with the delegation from IFAD led by its President, Mr Alvaro Lario, on the sidelines of the United Nations Food Systems Summit Stocktake (UNFSS+4) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Shettima said the programme would improve the livelihoods of rural communities, increase their incomes and access to food.
He said the administration of President Bola Tinubu was committed to reforms and programmes that would reduce poverty and enhance food security in Nigeria.
The vice-president said Tinubu had the courage and conviction to take far reaching decisions in terms of policy reforms.
Shettima emphasised that the Tinubu-led Federal Government would strengthen partnership with IFAD with a view to inspiring the confidence of the Nigerian people.
He said: “On behalf of President Bola Tinubu, we want to register our most profound gratitude for the support we are getting from IFAD.
“We are keenly interested on extending the Special Agro-Processing Zones to other states of the Nigerian federation.
“The Value Chain Development is also an idea whose time has come. We have to fast track the process of kickstarting the programme, because time is of the essence.
“Our population is 230 million and by 2050, we will be the third most populous nation on earth. So, we have to invest in youth because the future belongs to them.
“The average age of the Nigerian nation is 16.9. I want to appeal to you for a genuine partnership that will inspire confidence in the Nigerian nation and the president is very committed to reform.”
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, expressed appreciation to IFAD for its support to Nigeria over the years.
Kyari said, “We are seeing measurable outcomes and the successes of the IFAD projects in Nigeria.
“It is not something that is on documents or paper and the Regional Director has been helpful and of course the Country Director, Dr Dede Ekoue, is wonderful. She keeps everybody on their toes.”
Earlier, Lario said the organisation was working assiduously to accelerate the implementation of the value chain development programme in Northern Nigeria.
He said, “And I think we are only pending for the signing of the financing agreement.
“So, once that is done, I think we can accelerate and start because I know the needs are high and we need to fast track implementation.”
Lario assured that IFAD would mobilise more finance for Nigeria, not only from its side but from climate fund, other multilateral agencies and governments that were interested in supporting the project being implemented in Nigeria.
He said the relationship between Nigeria and IFAD was going very well, disclosing that he would visit Nigeria in September 2025, to meet Tinubu. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani
Boosting development in Katsina through Child-sensitive Budgeting
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Boosting development in Katsina through Child-sensitive Budgeting

By Zubairu Idris, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

There is a popular saying that “children are the leaders of tomorrow”.

Far from being just a feel-good statement, it underscores the fundamental truth that the future of any nation depends on how well it nurtures its youngest population.

For Katsina State, where more than 4.5 million of its estimated 9.6 million people are children, the challenge of securing that future is both urgent and complex.

Poor child health outcomes, low school enrolment, and widespread poverty continue to jeopardise the life chances of millions of children.

Recognising this, stakeholders in the state, led by the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), are calling for the institutionalisation of child-sensitive budgeting and planning as a key strategy for improving child development outcomes.

At a recent media dialogue in Katsina, Mr Rahama Mohammed-Farah, Chief of UNICEF’s Kano Field Office, said investment in children was “not only a moral obligation but an economic necessity.”

“Children are not just beneficiaries of our future, they are builders of it.

“This is why we need strategic and adequately funded actions embedded in planning and budgeting systems at every level,” he said.

Notably, Child-sensitive budgeting is an approach that ensures public budgets are planned, executed, and monitored in ways that directly respond to the needs and rights of children.

It involves allocating resources to critical sectors such as education, health, nutrition, water and sanitation, protection, and early childhood development.

Globally, countries such as South Africa, Bangladesh, and the Philippines have made notable progress in integrating child-focused indicators into budget tracking and performance systems.

These efforts are typically guided by the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), which Nigeria ratified in 1991.

In Nigeria, frameworks such as the Child Rights Act (2003), and the National Policy on Children (2021), provide policy backing for child-responsive governance.

However, implementation gaps remain significant, especially at the sub-national level.

UNICEF’s latest data on Katsina reveals a sobering reality.

While government commitment has increased in recent years, outcomes for children remain among the lowest in the country.

One in six children (159 per 1,000 live births) do not survive to their fifth birthday, a stark indicator of gaps in child healthcare services.

Only 41 per cent of children are fully immunised, leaving the majority vulnerable to life-threatening but preventable diseases.

Additionally, 75.5 per cent of children are classified as multi-dimensionally poor, lacking access to healthcare, education, nutrition, and other essential services, while 61.2 per cent live in monetary poverty.

The data reveals that about one-third of children are out of school at the primary level, undermining the state’s long-term human capital and economic prospects.

In terms of nutrition, only 23.4 per cent of children aged 6–23 months receive the minimum acceptable diet, and 51.3 per cent of under-five children are stunted.

This indicates chronic malnutrition with long-term effects on physical and cognitive development.

Although budgetary allocations to sectors like education and health have increased in recent years, actual releases and utilisation remain inconsistent.

Mr AbdurRahman Abdullahi, Chairman of the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Katsina, shared his thoughts.

He said budget performance tracking from 2022 to 2024 revealed that actual releases for children-focused interventions were often lower than the approved allocations.

He identified limited fiscal autonomy, weak inter-agency coordination, and revenue constraints as major hurdles hampering effective implementation.

“The mismatch between budget approval and actual release has weakened impact, especially in rural areas,” he said.

“We need timely, adequate, and transparent financing”.

In response, the Katsina State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to child-sensitive financing.

Speaking at the media dialogue, the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Mr Malik Anas, said the 2026 appropriation would reflect stronger integration of child-focused planning.

Anas was represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr Tijjani Umar.

“Our ministry will ensure that all MDAs provide meaningful child-centred allocations during the upcoming budget cycle,” he said.

He added that training and budget review mechanisms were being strengthened.

Gov. Dikko Radda also made commitments during the 2025 Children’s Day celebration, where he hosted orphans and children with special needs.

He pledged that his administration would continue to protect children’s rights and prioritise their welfare.

“Every child is our responsibility. We will continue to ensure that their rights to education, health, and overall well-being are fully protected.

“As a government, we are your parents and we are here to serve you.

“I want to assure you that we will continue to associate with you and give special attention.

“All children deserve the opportunity to reach their full potential, and we will do everything within our power to make that possible,” Radda assured.

Participants at the media dialogue also stressed the crucial role of journalists in budget tracking, amplifying children’s voices, and holding leaders accountable.

Representatives of various media houses pledged to report consistently on child development indicators, funding trends, and service delivery gaps.

They also committed to translating complex budget data into compelling stories that the public can easily understand.

Equally important are the contributions of communities, religious leaders, and traditional institutions, who often serve as first responders to the needs of vulnerable children.

Stakeholders urged these groups to remain engaged and proactive in advocating for quality education, primary healthcare, child protection, and youth development at the grassroots level.

UNICEF and other development partners including Save the Children, the World Bank, and the European Union, have supported child-focused initiatives in Katsina over the years.

These initiatives include immunisation campaigns, school feeding programmes, and nutrition projects.

However, stakeholders stressed that the long-term sustainability of child-focused programmes depends largely on the ability of local governments to incorporate these priorities into their own budgeting and planning processes.

Mohammed-Farah emphasised the need to shift from reliance on donor support to increased domestic resource mobilisation.

“It’s time to move from donor dependency to domestic resource mobilisation.

“Investing in children today helps prevent higher social and economic costs in the future,” he said.

He noted investment in children’s welfare was the most strategic decision the government can make.

“It is an investment in Katsina’s future workforce. It is an investment that can break the cycle of poverty, enhance community resilience, and promote lasting peace and development,” he added.

Mohammed-Farah also warned that insufficient and poorly planned investments in children could lead to serious long-term consequences.

“Malnourished and uneducated children are less likely to become productive adults. Children without adequate protection are more vulnerable to abuse, exploitation, and recruitment by criminal groups,” he said.

He further explained that addressing the outcomes of neglect; such as poverty, illiteracy, malnutrition, and insecurity, costs far more than making early, preventive investments in child development.

“That is why we say prevention is cheaper than cure,” he noted.

In conclusion, stakeholders emphasised that child-sensitive budgeting is not merely a financial exercise but a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to protecting and improving the lives of children.

They noted that if the Katsina State Government fully implements its child-focused budget plans, it can lead to measurable improvements in child health, education, and protection.

This, they said, requires timely release of allocated funds and a strong commitment to transparency in public spending.

They further stressed that effective coordination among relevant ministries and agencies is essential to ensure that resources are used efficiently and reach the intended beneficiaries.

Such an approach, they added, would help lay a solid foundation for inclusive and sustainable development in the state. (NANFeatures)

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

 

Advancing Nigeria’s security strategies through unmanned aerial systems
Features

Advancing Nigeria’s security strategies through unmanned aerial systems

By Patricia Amogu, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

In the face of Nigeria’s deepening security crisis, marked by terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and communal violence, a glimmer of hope is on the horizon as homegrown security innovations gain momentum.

These indigenous initiatives are gradually taking centre stage, lifting the spirits of millions and giving balance to the lives of many vulnerable and displaced communities across the country.

Recently, a groundbreaking collaboration between the Nigerian Military and Briech Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) birthed the first and largest indigenous attack drones and bomb systems in Nigeria and Africa.

Unveiled at the company’s Abuja headquarters, this cutting-edge technology is being hailed by stakeholders as a potential game changer in the fight against insurgency and organised crime.

According to Mr Bright Echefu, Chairman of EIB Group and founder of Briech UAS, the innovation became imperative as extremist groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP increasingly weaponised commercial drones to spy on troops, coordinate ambushes, and conduct aerial attacks.

“Our enemies are adapting fast; they are using off-the-shelf drones to launch crude but deadly strikes.

“We cannot afford to rely on outdated tools anymore,” he said.

Echefu said that as Nigeria continued to invest in indigenous defense manufacturing, the country might potentially become a player in defence and security issues of many countries.

Of interest, the European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA) characterises the Nigeria’s security situation as complex and deteriorating, citing armed banditry and widespread kidnappings as the leading causes of instability.

Available data indicates that in 2023 alone, more than 75 per cent of conflict-related deaths were reported in the northern region.

Attacks by Islamist groups, counter-insurgency operations, separatist tensions, and herder-farmer clashes continue to fuel widespread displacement and humanitarian distress.

The North-East, in particular, has seen entire communities fleeing for safety as armed groups impose levies and destroy essential infrastructure.

According to EUAA figures, more than 21,000 Nigerians applied for asylum in the EU+ between January 2023 and March 2024, signaling a troubling trend of migration driven by insecurity.

A security expert said Briech UAS’s new technology promised to enhance Nigeria’s ability to detect, deter, and respond to security threats in real-time.

“For the fast rising tech company, some features stand out an advanced surveillance and thermal imaging for wide-area monitoring, real-time intelligence gathering to support on-ground tactical operations, rapid response capabilities to intercept or neutralise threats before escalation and cost-effective, scalable solutions for ongoing border and community surveillance

“These drones also have potential applications beyond combat, such as disaster response, infrastructure inspection, and search-and-rescue efforts.

“As traditional security methods struggle to match the speed and complexity of modern threats, indigenous technological solutions like Briech’s are increasingly vital.

“The partnership with the Nigerian Army reflects a broader strategic shift—one that embraces innovation, local expertise, and adaptive warfare tactics to restore safety and rebuild public confidence.

“As Briech UAS positions Nigeria at the forefront of drone-powered security innovation in Africa, citizens and stakeholders alike are watching with cautious optimism there is a dim of light at the end of the tunnel,’’ he said.

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, described the initiative as a significant step in Nigeria’s journey toward self-reliance in defence technology and national security enhancement.

He said that the innovation was a game-changer in an era of complex and asymmetric security threats, emphasising the significance of producing local military solutions, especially in the face of global politics and procurement challenges.

“These force multipliers will play a vital role in enhancing the operational effectiveness of our military, particularly in a world where global politics surrounding the procurement of advanced military hardware have become more intricate.’’

The CDS said that countries that did not produce such solutions faced bureaucratic bottlenecks and diplomatic hurdles when acquiring the critical platforms.

“We are facing such challenges directly, if you do not produce what you need, you will be at the mercy of others, even when you have the financial resources to acquire them,” he said.

He said that the drones would help Nigeria respond swiftly to security challenges, cutting down on dependence on foreign equipment.

In his submission at the unveiling, Gov. Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau said that homegrown solutions had great impact for the country’s security needs.

He emphasised on the importance of protecting national sovereignty and safeguarding the country from activities of non-state actors.

“We have made a mistake by allowing non-state actors to acquire capabilities that rival those of state actors,” Mutfwang said.

He said that Plateau was actively working with local manufacturers like Briech UAS, with drones already deployed in the state, improving the effectiveness of security operations.

Deserving no less attention, Echefu, during a media tour of the firm’s security facilities, said that through innovation and advanced technology, Nigeria could handle its security challenges.

According to him, the company provides intelligence support for Nigeria’s security agencies though digital forensics, tracking and critical assets as well as supply of combat and surveillance drones.

He said it manufactured Arginin Reconnaissance Drones configured for high-performance reconnaissance and surveillance missions.

“The company also produces Arsenio BFLY and Xander Reconnaissance drones among other super precise attack drones that can navigate difficult environments.

“These systems are crucial in combating insurgent groups, adopting different drones for reconnaissance and attack missions.

“The primary purpose was to demonstrate the capabilities of the security apparatus deployed to fight insurgency, its potential is to enhance counter-insurgency operations and mitigate the threats posed by insurgent groups.

“The significance of this effort lies in stressing the potential of the equipment to enhance intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.’’

He said the tools would also improve force protection and reduce troop casualties by minimising reliance on manned reconnaissance missions.

According to him, the use of commercial drones by insurgent groups presents significant challenges for security forces.

“To address this, the security apparatus is leveraging technologies like drone detection and jamming systems, improved intelligence gathering, and counter-drone systems.

“The system will generate insights from the collected data, allowing for better decision-making and improved resource allocation.

“This system will provide at-a-glance dashboards showing the status and location of monitored items, including parameters like satellite imagery and intelligence gathering capabilities to support security agencies,’’ he said.

Echefu said with the right support and increased investment, indigenous companies had the capacity to provide the needed logistics support to the military in the fight against insecurity.

He acknowledged the support from government to the indigenous security firms and called for more policies to foster Nigerian companies’ growth, especially those in defence and security sector.

“I can tell you that I am not the only one that is into supporting the various sectors, by local activities, local productions; there is a lot going on. People are producing even tractors in Nigeria now.

“Nigeria has 100 per cent capacity right now to end this urgency with the number of local companies that are investing heavily.

“The Nigerian military strongly supports local manufacturers through research collaboration and support,” Echefu said.

Security analysts are of the view that more states should embrace drones for comprehensive surveillance, especially for hard-to-reach areas.

They say collaboration between the Nigerian Military and Briech will boost cross-border counter-terrorism operations and strengthen internal control over weapons systems and logistics. (NANFeatures)

 

 

”Beyond Expectations”, A legacy of integrity: Yakubu Mohammed, journalist, reformer & reluctant politician
Features

”Beyond Expectations”, A legacy of integrity: Yakubu Mohammed, journalist, reformer & reluctant politician

By Yusuf Mohammed

In Beyond Expectations, veteran journalist and media entrepreneur Yakubu Mohammed delivers a deeply personal yet historically significant memoir that chronicles not only his extraordinary life journey but also key moments in Nigeria’s political and media evolution.

For readers who have long sought clarity on Dele Giwa and the infamous Gloria Okon saga, Mohammed offers crucial insights.

In this no-holds-barred book, there’s a chapter dedicated to political betrayals: naming names and making clarifications without mincing words. It is one of the boldest sections in the book.

From humble beginnings in Igala land, Yakubu Mohammed’s rise is the stuff of legend. His early life, marked by poverty and hardship, did not deter him.

With quiet determination, he rose to the editorial helm of MKO Abiola’s National Concord Newspapers and later became a founding member of Nigeria’s first news magazine, Newswatch, alongside Ray Ekpu, Dan Agbese, and the late Dele Giwa.

While the four are often celebrated as co-founders, Agbese writes in the preface that Yakubu was the true initiator, the man who brought them together and made the vision a reality.

The memoir is rich with behind-the-scenes stories from Nigeria’s turbulent years. One standout episode is Mohammed’s first-hand account of the military’s brutal raid on Fela Anikulapo Kuti’s Kalakuta Republic in 1977.

In spite of direct threats from security agents, Mohammed refused to be silenced. His paper, New Nigerian, published the story when most others backed down. In a military era, it was an act of courage that could have cost him his freedom or worse.

Speaking of freedom, this memoir reveals that his liberty was taken from him several times throughout his career.

The worst instance was during the dictatorship of General Sani Abacha, when he was thrown into the “gulag” in 1994.

Perhaps the most unexpected part of Mohammed’s journey was his brief entry into partisan politics. In the foreword, Prof. Olatunji Dare expresses surprise at the decision, describing Nigerian politics as a domain filled with “dirty tricks, betrayals and sordid deals.”

Mohammed’s experience confirmed this. Yet even in that muddy arena, he remained true to his values and left with his dignity intact.

Beyond politics and journalism, Beyond Expectations also sheds light on Yakubu Mohammed’s quiet acts of leadership, defending the oppressed during his time as pro-chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; mentoring young professionals, and refusing to take undue credit.

even with this towering achievements, he is described repeatedly as a man of humility, someone who “hates to blow his own horn.”

In fact, it is the unforced modesty of this memoir that will give it lasting power. Mohammed does not attempt to paint himself as a hero. Instead, he lets the facts, and his consistent principles, speak for themselves.

Just like his days in Concord and later Newswatch, his storytelling is clear, elegant, and deeply human. Whether describing a diplomatic trip, a newsroom crisis, or a quiet act of betrayal, Mohammed writes with a subtle wit.

For his contemporaries and those who were old enough back in the day, Mohammed’s recollections will evoke a deep sense of nostalgia.

For the younger generation, those too young or not yet born at the time, it offers a chance to understand why he and his colleagues were arguably the biggest stars in Nigeria during the 1980s. They weren’t musicians or actors. They rose to prominence with the power of the pen.

His reflections on loyalty, and the pain of ingratitude, are especially moving. “Some pay him back with the coins of ingratitude,” writes Agbese. Yet Yakubu, ever gracious, “takes it in his stride.”

The memoir closes with a sense of fulfilment rather than triumph.

This is a man who has stood at the intersection of power, truth, and service, and emerged with his soul intact.

From the dust of Ologba in Kogi State, to Buckingham Palace, where he once had an audience with Queen Elizabeth II, Yakubu Mohammed’s story is not just a personal success; it is a national asset.

Beyond Expectations is a powerful, necessary book, especially in today’s Nigeria, where ethics in public life often feel endangered. It is a reminder that one can be principled and still be impactful. That one can lead quietly and still shape history.

Whether you are a student of journalism, a lover of Nigerian history, or simply a reader in search of a story that uplifts, informs, and inspires, this is a book worth reading.

In telling his own story, Yakubu Mohammed reminds us of what is possible when character, courage, and competence meet.

**Mohammed is the publisher of The Columnist NG

Special Report: How Super Falcons soar to historic 10th WAFCON title
Features , Sports

Special Report: How Super Falcons soar to historic 10th WAFCON title

By Vivian Ahanmisi

In Rabat, the Super Falcons of Nigeria overcame hosts Morocco to win their tenth Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title on Saturday.

 

Trailing 2–0 at half-time, the Nigerian women fought back to secure a dramatic 3–2 victory, completing one of the greatest comebacks in tournament history.

 

Morocco opened the scoring in the 16th minute through captain Ghizlane Chebbak, who curled a brilliant effort past Nigeria’s goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie.

 

Eight minutes later, Fatima Tagnaout doubled Morocco’s lead after a swift counterattack that caught the Super Falcons’ defence completely off balance.

 

Nigeria emerged from the break with renewed energy. Head coach Justin Madugu made key tactical changes that changed the tempo and rhythm of the match.

 

Esther Okoronkwo pulled one back in the 64th minute, calmly converting a penalty to send the Moroccan goalkeeper the wrong way.

 

Six minutes later, Okoronkwo turned provider, setting up Deborah Ijamilusi to score the equaliser and silence the partisan home crowd.

 

The winner came in the 86th minute. Okoronkwo’s precise free-kick was headed in by Jennifer Echegini, completing the remarkable turnaround.

 

Okoronkwo, with one goal and two assists, was named Player of the Match for her outstanding contribution to Nigeria’s historic triumph.

 

Nigeria were drawn in Group B alongside Cameroon, Senegal, and Botswana. Many viewed them as favourites, but they still needed to prove their mettle.

 

The Falcons began with a confident 2–0 win over Senegal, with Rasheedat Ajibade and Toni Payne scoring in a dominant performance.

 

Next, Nigeria faced Cameroon. They held firm and secured a narrow 1–0 victory through a late header by midfielder Christy Ucheibe.

 

In their final group match, the Falcons defeated Botswana 4–1. Uchenna Kanu scored twice, while Echegini and Onumonu added to the tally.

 

With three wins from three matches, Nigeria topped Group B. They scored seven goals and conceded just once during the group stage.

 

In the quarter-finals, Nigeria faced Zambia and delivered a clinical 5–0 performance on 18 July at Stade Mohamed V in Casablanca.

 

Goals from Echegini, Kanu, Ajibade, Okoronkwo, and Ucheibe sealed the Falcons’ place in the semi-finals in commanding fashion.

 

Nigeria then met arch-rivals and defending champions South Africa in a high-stakes semi-final clash on Tuesday, July 22.

 

Ajibade gave Nigeria the lead from the penalty spot just before half-time. South Africa equalised through Linda Motlhalo’s spot-kick in the 60th minute.

 

In stoppage time, Michelle Alozie’s curling free-kick sailed untouched into the net, sealing a dramatic 2–1 victory for Nigeria.

 

The final against Morocco was a rematch of their painful 2022 semi-final loss. This time, the Falcons had the last word.

 

Their 2025 campaign was driven by redemption, unity, and determination to reclaim the crown they had lost three years earlier.

 

Nigeria first won the WAFCON in 1991 and dominated the early years of the competition with seven consecutive titles from 1991 to 2006.

 

Legends like Florence Omagbemi, Mercy Akide, and Perpetua Nkwocha laid the foundation for Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s football.

 

After brief setbacks in 2008 and 2012, Nigeria reclaimed their status by winning in 2010, 2014, 2016, and 2018.

 

Their ninth title came in 2018 after a penalty shootout win over South Africa. They lost to Morocco in the 2022 semi-finals.

 

With this victory, Nigeria have now won ten of the fifteen WAFCON editions. No African team, male or female, has achieved such a feat.

 

Following the final whistle, Head Coach Justin Madugu praised his players for their bravery, focus, and refusal to give up when it mattered most.

 

“This group never gave up,” he said. “At half-time, we talked about pride, about history — and they responded like true champions,” Madugu said.

 

Esther Okoronkwo, named Player of the Match, said: “I’m honoured to contribute to this. This is for every Nigerian girl with big dreams.”

 

Florence Omagbemi, now an NFF Board Member, said: “I was part of the 1991 team. Seeing this tenth title is deeply emotional.”

 

NFF President Ibrahim Gusau described the team as national treasures who had carried the Nigerian flag with pride, discipline, and unmatched excellence.

 

“These women have carried our flag with dignity and power,” he said. “They are Africa’s pride and we’ll always support them,” he said.

 

President Bola Tinubu praised the team, saying: “The Super Falcons have reminded us what Nigerians can achieve through unity, courage, and resilience.”

 

Sports analyst Aisha Falode noted: “This tenth title is a message. The Falcons have again raised the bar for women’s sport in Africa.”

 

From grassroots pitches to continental glory, the Super Falcons have shown that dreams, backed by perseverance, truly come true.

 

Their journey is far from over — but with ten WAFCON titles, the Super Falcons have already secured African football immortality. (NAN) (wwww.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Imperative of autonomous agency for malaria eradication
Features

Imperative of autonomous agency for malaria eradication

By Deborah Coker, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

In Nigeria, malaria is still a critical health concern–one of the leading causes of death.

Every year, thousands, especially children and pregnant women, die or suffer long term malaria-related health complications.

In spite of decades of programmes, task forces, technical working groups, and international support, the country is still at a point where malaria contributes significantly to deaths.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Nigeria accounts for approximately 31 per cent of global malaria deaths, making it the country with the highest malaria death toll worldwide.

It also carries a significant portion of the global malaria burden, with an estimated 27 per cent of all malaria cases.

Against this backdrop, health experts say it is disheartening that the Ministry of Justice, National Agency for Food, Drug and Control (NAFDAC), and a few others recently opposed the bill for the establishment of the National Agency for Malaria Elimination (NAME) (SB.172), citing concerns of duplication, fragmentation, and institutional overlap.

The bill, sponsored by Sen. Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District, passed the second reading in the senate on May 15.

This bill proposes a centralised, autonomous, and fully resourced National Agency for Malaria Eradication.

It also proposed that the mandates of the agency will be clear and aggressive to include formulate and champion national policies for malaria eradication, as well as coordinate inter-agency and sectoral responses with authority.

Other mandates according to the proposed bill are to mobilise and manage resources efficiently and transparently, invest in and support vaccine research, including genetic innovations being explored globally.

However, when the bill came up for public hearing recently, at the National Assembly, the Ministry of Justice, NAFDAC and few others opposed it.

Imarha Reuben, Chief State Counsel at the Ministry of Justice, said creating the agency would duplicate the responsibilities of existing institutions.

According to him the Federal Ministry of Justice is against the National Agency for Malaria Eradication (Establishment) Bill 2025 SB 172 to avoid duplication of functions of existing similar agencies in line with implementation of the Orosanye report.

Kolawole Maxwell, Chairman, Malaria Technical Working Group in Nigeria, also kicked against the bill.

“We recommend that the current eradication target should be changed to elimination.

“We are also suggesting that the malaria programme should be housed within a coordinated government structure to avoid fragmentation and ensure easier coordination.

“If malaria is taken out as an agency, it will lead to another fragmentation of the health sector,” he said.

Fraden Bitrus, a representative of NAFDAC, said the focus should be on strengthening existing efforts rather than creating a new agency.

Nonetheless, some stakeholders maintain that the current approach to malaria has been ineffective; hence the urgency of the bill.

They say that the argument that the bill duplicates existing efforts does not take into account that coordination is not the same as dedication.

According to the proponents of the bill, agencies like NAFDAC or departments within the Ministry of Health have broader mandates, and malaria is just one of many competing priorities.

The say without a dedicated structure, malaria elimination efforts are often seasonal, underfunded, and lost within bureaucratic layers.

Ismaila Dankogi, President, Environmental Health Officers Association (EHOA) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), said the proposed agency would shift Nigeria’s malaria strategy from curative to preventive.

Similarly, Chioma Amajoh, Executive Director, Community Vision Initiative, backed the proposal.

According to her, clinical case management of malaria in Nigeria over the decades has failed to tame the scourge.

She urged the senate committee on health to allow the proposal to “see the light of day,” describing the agency as a springboard for coordinated action.

Meanwhile, health experts say the Oronsaye Report, often cited in such arguments, is about reducing waste, not abandoning priority.

“Fighting malaria is not a luxury; it is a national emergency.

“Establishing NAME is not about creating another agency for the sake of it, but about setting up a mission driven institution with one singular goal to eliminate malaria from Nigeria.

“The bill understands that curative models have failed; rather than fragment the health sector, the agency will serve as a clearing house, bringing together research, policy, education, environmental health, and community mobilisation under one roof.

“Several countries that have drastically reduced or eliminated malaria such as Sri Lanka, China, and Algeria, did so through dedicated national programmes and agencies with legal backing, not scattered interventions.

“This is about lives, not turf; it is about saving lives, protecting our future, and doing what is right, not what is convenient.

“If the fight against malaria is to be won, it must be fought with the seriousness it deserves; with law, science, and accountability,’’ a health expert said.

Worthy of note, healthcare professionals in the FCT are also raising the alarm on malaria and its menacing tentacles.

Dr Bayo Ogundeyi of Lugbe Primary Health Care Centre said that malaria remained the leading health concern at his facility.

“We see malaria more than any other illness every day,” Ogundeyi emphasised.

He identified common symptoms of the disease, including high fever, chills, sweating, headaches, and nausea.

Ogundeyi underscored the urgent need for prevention, describing it as the “most effective approach” to tackling the disease.

“People must use insecticide-treated bed nets, eliminate stagnant water where mosquitoes breed, and ensure regular indoor spraying,” he said.

He also advocated for early and appropriate treatment, recommending the use of Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy (ACT), in line with national medical guidelines.

Dr Kingsley Akhamie of Nisa Premier Hospital, Abuja, said that both adults and children frequently had malaria infections.

“Malaria can become life-threatening if not treated promptly; we have seen patients with complications like severe anemia and organ damage due to delayed intervention,” he warned.

Dr Tosin Ogunyemi of Lugbe Health Post emphasised the vulnerability of children, noting a sharp rise in pediatric malaria cases.

“We are seeing a lot of children presenting with malaria.

“It is vital that parents take precautions by making their homes mosquito-proof and seeking medical attention at the first sign of illness,” he said.

The expert further urged residents to prioritise prevention, especially during the rainy season, when the risk of malaria transmission was at its peak.

He said through early detection, proper treatment, and effective prevention, the burden of the disease in the FCT could be significantly reduced, and many lives would be saved.

Deserving no less attention, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, in his remarks at the commencement of the public hearing, said it was time to move from seasonal campaigns to institutionalised eradication, backed by law, science and accountability.

Concerned observers say the opportunity to tackle malaria frontally should not be squandered with bureaucratic bottlenecks. (NANFeatures)

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

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