NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Reparation: Africa’s movement towards new rules of engagement
Features

Reparation: Africa’s movement towards new rules of engagement

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By Ismail Abdulaziz, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Many countries across the world have continued to use the blooming youth population in Africa and the inherent skill to develop.

Africa is, indeed, giving a lot to the world in terms of resources, manpower and wealth; just as it was forced to do in the past through slavery and other human right abuses.

The issue of reparation, therefore, is a paramount one that the new leadership at the Commonwealth needs to boldly put in the front burner.

Observers say Shirley Botchwey, the new Commonwealth Secretary-General, must tackle reparation in her three target priorities of empowering women and youth, revitalising trade and investment, and combating climate change.

In the African context, reparations for historical injustices committed by former colonial powers – especially for transatlantic slavery, colonisation, and neocolonialism between the 16th and 20th century have been championed by governments and civil society organisations long before decolonisation ended.

Yet, they have rarely materialised.

To rekindle this effort, the African Union (AU), at its 38th Summit in February, unveiled the theme ‘’Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations.’’

This is with the aim of having a common position on reparation and strengthening the AU’s capacity to provide technical support to member states.

Reparations, in its broadest sense, refers to the act of making amends for a wrong inflicted, providing restitution, or giving satisfaction or compensation to the injured party.

The primary purpose of reparations is to address past injustices and to provide some form of compensation or redress for the harm caused.

Recently, Mr Mohammed Idris, Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, again brought up the issue of reparation for African countries.

Idris suggested key factors that should be considered by the Commonwealth in leading the significant issue that would shape the future of the continent.

‘’Funds and cooperation could be channelled into new joint ventures between Britain and other Commonwealth countries where both sides benefit: investments and programmes that create shared, long-term value, designed to outlast political cycles and changing administrations.

“These could be public, private, or both – but distinct from other initiatives already in existence.

‘’Infrastructure should be a priority, driving economic development, creating jobs, and connecting the continent.

“One of Africa’s defining challenges is its lack of intra-continental trade – a legacy of colonial-era resource extraction that funnelled raw materials out to the West rather than cultivating regional exchange.

“A free trade agreement between Africa’s 54 nations is under way to reduce tariffs and unlock economic potential across the continent, but without material connectivity – roads, railways, ports – the transformative impact will be blunted.

‘’Second, debt forgiveness should be up for discussion. No Western funds are required up front, only a write-down off government books.

‘’Debt is corroding many African nations, exacerbated by a global financial architecture that favours Western interests and penalises developing nations.

‘’This is no accident: banking, insurance, and capital markets were shaped by the profits and economic structures built during the era of slavery.

‘’Today, many African nations spend more on debt repayments than on education and healthcare combined.’’

According to the minister, fiscal space is required not only to fund development; it is essential for building climate resilience in the continent least responsible yet one of the hardest hit by rising temperatures.

He said it was certain that calls to leave the Commonwealth would not silence the conversation on reparations.

“It was a central theme at the African Union summit in February, and the Caribbean Community has been actively pursuing the issue for over a decade.

‘’Instead of retreating, why not lead – just as the Commonwealth did with collective sanctions isolating apartheid South Africa? No other global body, unrestricted by region, is facilitating serious discussion on feasible, practicable reparatory justice between developed and developing nations.

‘’Once we move past the noise, a framework for reparations can be crafted that fosters mutual benefit rather than conflict.

‘’Africa holds immense opportunity. Its markets are set to surge, driven by a demographic boom that will see one in four working-age people worldwide residing on the continent by 2050.

‘’It is rich in the critical minerals that will power the energy transition and define the economies of the future; to fully seize this opportunity, the past should be reckoned with and leveraged to create joint value,’’ Idris said.

Worthy of note, in his submission at the 46th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the AU, Mr Claver Gatete, Executive Secretary of the UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), acknowledged the commitment of Heads of State and Government to unveil the reparations theme in their countries, signaling a unified resolve to seek justice for Africa and its diaspora.

Gatete, according to a report by ECA, stressed the lasting impact of the transatlantic slave trade and colonial exploitation, which he argued robbed Africa of its people, resources and dignity.

He said that the historical injustices had resulted in persistent inequalities in global financial systems, trade structures, and governance institutions that continue to afflict the continent today.

“The continent is home to 30 per cent of the world’s mineral reserves and 65 per cent of arable land; yet, Africa accounts for a meager three per cent of global trade and only one per cent of manufacturing output.

“This stark contrast is due to entrenched structural barriers that perpetuate economic dependency,’’ he said.

Gatete called for a comprehensive approach to reparative justice that went beyond financial compensation.

What’s more, AU’s move to rekindle the push for reparation needs to be loudly embraced by all stakeholders.

The continent is taking its rightful place in the comity of nations with the vast untapped and sought after resources as well as vast market.

It is incumbent on the continent to draw a new line of engagement with the world as Africa has come of age and the world cannot do without it in the scheme of things.

Analysts say the past few decades have positioned the continent as a critical player in global social and economic affairs; African youths have traversed the globe and saw that all they need for a better life is right here in the continent.

They say countries involved with Africa in the reparation, including France, the UK, Germany, Belgium, Italy, Spain, Portugal and the Netherlands must show readiness to finally heed the clarion call to address it once and for all in the interest of the present and the future.

For Africans, such positive steps by these countries will shape the existing relationship with China, Russia, Türkiye and the Gulf countries, who have no colonial past in Africa.(NANFeatures)

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

Smartphones and declining moral values among young people
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Smartphones and declining moral values among young people

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By Okon Okon, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

In recent years, smartphones with high storage capacity, advanced features and unrestricted internet access have become widely accessible to Nigerian teenagers.

While these devices offer numerous benefits, they have also contributed to a decline in moral values among young people.

This moral decadence is evident in various aspects of teenage behaviour, including exposure to inappropriate content, declining academic performance, reduced parental control and engagement in cybercrime.

Stakeholders, religious groups, traditional leaders, parents, among others–have expressed worry over the trend, while emphasising moral teachings to guide teenagers toward ethical behaviour.

Mrs Agbonma Asemota, a mother of three children, said it was not encouraging to allow teenagers to have access to sophisticated phones owning to explicit contents such as pornographic pictures and violent media.

Asemota added that with unrestricted internet access, many teenagers in Nigeria were exposed to harmful materials that influenced their perception of relationships, sex and violence.

According to her, such exposure can lead to early sexual activity, promiscuity and the erosion of traditional cultural values.

“High-capacity or smartphones enable teenagers to download and store large amounts of explicit content, including pornography and violent media.

“Well, high-capacity phone, I really can’t say if or if it should be given to a teenager or not, but there are reasons if it should also be given or not.

“First and foremost, a high-capacity phone contains information and there is age-based information that either a child, teenager or an adult would need at a particular time.

“So, these are things we put into consideration when giving out information.

“So, when it comes to giving out high-capacity phones with so much information on it, we should have it at the back of our minds, what do these children need at a particular time in their lives?

“We cannot allow children to start consuming adult content.

“It is just like in food; you do not start giving a child heavy meals when he or she is a baby; so, you give the child appropriate food; so, also should information.”

According to her, giving a child access to information that is either higher or not too useful for that child at that point can have adverse effects on his or her mental health.

She narrated a sad experience she had with a boy when she served as a young corps member in a secondary school, saying that she was not satisfied with what she saw.

“I was teaching secondary school, SS1 to be precise; there was a young boy and I think he was between the ages of 15 to 16.

“So, he gave me his phone to go through videos on his phone and what I found on his phone were high content and they were sex related movies.

“That was the information he consumed on a daily basis and it could affect his physical actions,” she said.

Hajia Zainab Garba, another contributor, who cited both negative and positive effects, said while mobile phones, particularly Android devices, offered numerous benefits, they also exposed young users to harmful content.

Garba noted that unrestricted access to the internet could lead teenagers to inappropriate websites, including those promoting cyber frauds, popularly known as “Yahoo Yahoo.”

She said there was need for caution when giving teenagers high-capacity smartphones, stressing that they should first be guided on distinguishing between right and wrong before being granted unrestricted access to such technology.

Speaking on education decline and negative influences, Very Rev. Anza Habila, Cleric in charge of All Saints Methodist Church Mararaba, said excessive smartphone used by teenagers had made them to be over dependent on technology.

Habila added that the habits had reduced most students’ ability to think critically and be creative.

“As both a parent and a religious leader, I strongly believe that excessive smartphones use by teenagers have more negative effects than positive ones, especially in education.

“One major issue is distraction; many students struggle to concentrate in school because their attention is constantly drawn to their phones.

“Instead of focusing on lessons, they often engage in activities that are not educationally beneficial.

“While some students argue that smartphones help with assignments, presentations and communication, the disadvantages far outweigh the benefits.”

He said that instead of conducting proper research, they relied on quick online searches, thereby weakening their problem-solving skills.

“In my opinion, parents should limit smartphone use among teenagers, especially in secondary school; at that stage, they may not yet have the maturity to manage their time and responsibilities effectively.

“Even at the university level, some students are still too young to handle the distractions and potential dangers that come with unrestricted smartphone use.”

Beyond academics, the cleric said there were also moral concerns as it had exposed teenagers to negative influences, such as internet fraud (commonly known as Yahoo Yahoo).

“There have been cases where young teenagers, due to their access to smartphones, have engaged in fraudulent activities or learned unethical ways to exploit others financially.

“For instance, I know of a case where a 13-year-old boy secretly connected an application to his father’s bank account, unknowingly stealing money over time.

“This kind of behaviour often begins with peer influence and unrestricted access to technology.”

Habila, however, said while smartphones could be useful tools, their misuse could also negatively impact students academically, morally and socially.

“Parents should carefully consider when and how to introduce their children to smartphones, ensuring they develop discipline and responsibility before gaining unrestricted access.

“Many teenagers become addicted to social media, online gaming and entertainment apps, which significantly distract them from their studies.’’

The cleric noted that instead of students focusing on academic work, they would rather spend hours on platforms like TikTok, Instagram and YouTube, consuming and creating content that might not add value to their intellectual growth.

“This addiction often leads to poor academic performance and reduced attention in school,” he said.

Contributing, Mr Patrick Odey, a community leader at Ado village in Nasarawa State, cautioned against early exposure of teenagers to internet-enabled devices, adding that they were at risk.

Odey said concerns over the negative impact of smartphones on teenagers were growing, with experts and parents cautioning against early exposure to internet-enabled devices.

He cited Brigham University in Masaka that banned usage of Android phones within its promises to curb distractions and protect students from harmful online content.

“Brigham University is one of the institutions enforcing strict measures against smartphone use among students; if you are caught with an Android phone, you are expelled.

“Only laptops are allowed for academic purposes, ensuring that students focus on research and assignments without distractions.”

According to him, the unrestricted use of smartphones among adolescents has led to declining academic performance and exposure to inappropriate material.

“It does not give children the right way to learn; they concentrate more on their phones, browsing instead of studying.

“A child that is underage will access content far beyond his maturity level, which negatively impacts his/her development,” he said.

While smartphones are essential tools for communication, education and personal development, their misuse by Nigerian teenagers have contributed to moral decadence in society.

Observers say to curb this, parents, teachers and the government must implement stricter measures, such as digital literacy education, parental controls and awareness campaigns on responsible phone usage.

They say religious and community leaders should emphasise moral teachings to guide teenagers towards ethical behaviour. (NANFeatures)

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

Mitigating the rising Elephant-Farmer conflict in Cross River
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Mitigating the rising Elephant-Farmer conflict in Cross River

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By Christian Njoku, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

In the heart of Nigeria’s last remaining rainforests, a growing crisis is unfolding.

Once revered as symbols of nature’s majesty, elephants in the Mbe Mountains of Cross River are now seen as threats by local farmers.

Their increasingly frequent crop raids are pushing already struggling communities to the brink.

In communities such as Bamba and Butatong, wild elephants have destroyed farmlands, economic trees, and crops worth millions, with reports of human casualties.

Conservation groups argue that a major factor behind these invasions is habitat losses in parts of the Cross River National Park, forcing elephants to encroach on human settlements.

Hence, they have advocated for alternative livelihoods, such as beekeeping and livestock farming, to help reduce human-wildlife conflicts.

In response, the House of Representatives recently called for collaboration with Cameroon to manage the situation, while NEMA has been urged to provide relief for affected communities.

During a recent debate, Mr Victor Abang, who represents the Boki/Ikom Federal Constituency, revealed the dire situation.

He stated, “Between Jan. and Feb. 2025, wild elephants from the Okwangwo Division of Cross River National Park and Cameroon’s Takamanda National Park invaded farms in Bamba, Butatong, and other communities around the Mbe Mountains.

“Their rampages destroyed farmlands worth millions of naira and reportedly led to loss of lives”.

While conservationists work tirelessly to protect these endangered giants, frustrated farmers are demanding urgent action.

Many fear that, without swift intervention, desperate locals may resort to self-defence, escalating tensions and endangering both humans and elephants.

Building on this information, a News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) correspondent visited several affected communities around the Mbe Mountains in Boki Local Government Area.

The Mbe Mountains, covering approximately 85 square kilometres, serve as an important wildlife corridor between two national parks, home to critically endangered species such as the Cross River gorilla, chimpanzees, and elephants.

However, many of the surrounding communities lack basic amenities such as electricity and potable water.

They rely on boreholes installed by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and other charitable organisations, but these are grossly inadequate.

This once-pristine landscape faces increasing threats from unchecked logging of ebony, mahogany, and other valuable woods, driven by both state and non-state actors.

Agricultural expansion and poaching with wire snares and shotguns further exacerbate the crisis.

Nine communities; Abo Mkpang, Abo Obisu, Abo Ogbagante, Kayang I, Kayang II, Wula Ekumpou, Wula Mgba Esour, Bukalum, and Bamba, are at the heart of this conflict.

With a combined population of roughly 10,000, they depend heavily on farming, yet many now find their livelihoods destroyed.

“We’ve always had these raids, but recently, they have become worse,” said Kingsley Obua, a resident of Bamba, the hardest-hit community.

He added that in 2023, two people; Mr Eugene Ekwo and Mr Simon Ewa, were killed in elephant attacks, warning that action must be taken before the situation spirals out of control.

In Wula I, Chief Damian Aria, the Village Head and a key member of the Conservation Association of Mbe Mountains (CAMM), confirmed that they have received numerous complaints from farmers about elephant raids.

“We have investigated these reports, and they are true. When elephants enter a farm, it looks as if a bulldozer has passed through. However, we have not received reports of them killing anyone,” Aria said.

A report by the Food and Agriculture Organisation revealed that elephants require between 90 and 270 kg of food and 50 to 100 gallons of water daily, depending on the temperature.

In the past, the forests provided these resources, but widespread deforestation has wiped out many fruit-bearing trees, forcing elephants to seek food and water in community farms.

In fact, Dr Peter Oko, an environmental scientist at the University of Calabar, explains that forests serve as watersheds, but excessive logging disrupts them.

“When this happens, both food production and water availability decline, forcing wildlife to move into human territories.

“The problem is worsened by climate change and prolonged dry seasons, as many rainforest streams are fast drying up, leaving the Okorn River, which demarcates the national park from community farmlands as one of the only remaining water sources.

“Elephants, desperate for water, now cross from the park into farmlands more frequently, “he said.

According to Isaac Bessong of the Boki Biodiversity Conservation Foundation, elephants cross the Okorn River to raid crops in Bamba between February and April.

Bessong insists that they then shift to Abo Mkpang and Bokalum from May to September, causing losses in the hundreds of millions.

He warns that financial strain on farmers is pushing some toward retaliatory killings.

Conservationists report that at least seven elephants were killed in the Okwangwo-Takamanda landscape in 2024 due to crop raids.

Given that the region’s elephant population is estimated at just 74, according to the latest African Elephant Status Report, this is a concerning trend.

Similarly, Dr Inaoyom Imong, Director of Cross River Landscape at the WCS, argues that elephant incursions are largely due to human encroachment on their historical ranges.

“When the park was established, a buffer zone separated it from community farmlands, reducing human-wildlife conflict.

“However, these buffer zones have been overtaken by farmlands, leaving no protective space between the park and communities.

“As we face increasing deforestation from illegal logging and unsustainable farming practices, elephants struggle to find food and water, forcing them to venture into community farms”.

Imong also revealed that political unrest in south-western Cameroon has left weapons in the hands of militants who hide in the forests, including Takamanda National Park.

He suspects these agitators are poaching elephants for meat and ivory to fund their conflicts, driving more elephants into Nigerian territory and increasing crop raids.

While conservation groups like WCS and the Elephant Protection Initiative are working to address the issue, urgent government intervention is necessary.

Stakeholders stress that the National Elephant Action Plan (2024–2034) must go beyond paperwork and be fully funded and implemented.

According to them, government visits, such as that of Boki Local Government Chairman Mrs Beatrice Nyiam, are insufficient.

They opined that concrete action is needed, including expanding buffer zones, promoting sustainable farming, improving infrastructure, and enforcing wildlife protection laws.

Overall, without urgent intervention, Cross River could lose its last elephants, and local communities will continue to suffer. Immediate action is needed from all stakeholders.(NANFeatures)

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

Advancing Autism awareness and inclusion in Africa
Features

Advancing Autism awareness and inclusion in Africa

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By Abiemwense Moru, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Autism awareness has gained huge global attention in recent years.

However, in Africa, progress remains hindered by widespread misconceptions, stigma, and limited access to essential services.

While efforts are being made to address these challenges, much remains to be done to ensure inclusivity and equal opportunities for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition characterised by persistent difficulties in social communication and interaction, along with restricted and repetitive behaviours.

Many individuals with ASD and their families face immense challenges, including inadequate access to quality education, healthcare, and social support.

In Africa, these difficulties are often exacerbated by deeply ingrained cultural beliefs and a lack of early diagnosis and intervention.

In Nigeria, ASD is a major public health concern, with prevalence rates varying across studies and regions.

Research indicates that approximately 1 in 150 to 160 children—equating to around 600,000 individuals—are affected by ASD in the country.

Hospital-based studies have reported prevalence rates of 1 in 43.5 in South-West Nigeria and 1 in 125 in South-Eastern Nigeria.

Another study documented a prevalence of 2.3 per cent among 2,320 new cases at child neurology and psychiatric clinics over a six-year period.

Among children with intellectual disabilities, the prevalence of ASD was found to be 11.4 per cent.

Albeit these figures, autism awareness in Nigeria remains limited.

Health experts argue that many individuals with ASD are either misdiagnosed or undiagnosed due to a lack of understanding among healthcare professionals and the general public.

According to them, cultural misconceptions contribute greatly to the stigma, with some attributing autism to supernatural causes.

As a result, families often conceal affected individuals, preventing them from accessing appropriate care and support.

Although efforts to improve awareness are ongoing, challenges persist in ensuring accurate diagnosis and intervention.

One advocate leading the charge in changing this narrative is Victoria Jim, founder of the Sustainable Development for Africa Youth Initiative (SuDAYI).

Through her organisation, she is championing the rights of individuals with autism, providing support for affected families, and working towards creating a more inclusive society.

Jim’s passion for autism advocacy stems from her personal experiences growing up in Africa, where she witnessed the marginalisation and exclusion of individuals with disabilities.

“I saw how they were often denied access to basic rights and opportunities,” she recalls.

Determined to drive change, she founded SuDAYI, a non-governmental organisation (NGO) that focuses on advocating for inclusive policies and support systems for individuals with autism and other disabilities.

She emphasises the need for collective efforts to create an environment where no one is left behind.

“Every individual with autism deserves access to quality education, healthcare, and social services that cater to their specific needs,” she asserts.

Through SuDAYI, she is working to bridge the gaps in autism services and ensure that individuals with ASD have the necessary resources to thrive.

Over the next two years, the organisation aims to implement a comprehensive autism management programme, focusing on inclusive education, family support, and professional training for caregivers and healthcare workers.

To achieve this, SuDAYI is establishing partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, and community leaders to promote autism awareness and encourage acceptance.

This aligns with Jim’s vision of an Africa where autistic individuals are empowered, supported, and given equal opportunities.

In spite of some progress in autism advocacy, policy gaps remain a major challenge.

Legal frameworks such as the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018 represent a step forward, but they fail to adequately address the specific needs of children and women with disabilities.

Rep. Bashiru Dawodu, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Disability Matters, acknowledges the limitations of the current law.

“Specifically, there is a need for stronger protections for individuals with intellectual disabilities, developmental needs, and neurodegenerative conditions,” he emphasises.

According to him, while the government has an important role in shaping policies, the collective efforts of civil society organisations (CSOs) and advocacy groups are equally essential.

Dawodu highlights the importance of collaboration between the government and CSOs to effectively address the challenges faced by persons with disabilities (PwDs).

Similarly, Mohammed Isa, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, shares this sentiment, reaffirming the government’s commitment to inclusive development under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“This agenda prioritises inclusivity and equal opportunities for all young people, especially those with disabilities,” Isa states.

The government’s pledge to collaborate with initiatives like SuDAYI offers a glimmer of hope for a more inclusive future.

However, one of the most pressing needs in addressing autism in Africa is increasing awareness and shifting societal perceptions.

Many autistic individuals face exclusion due to misconceptions about their capabilities.

Platforms such as the 14th Annual Autism Conference, organised by Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO), are working to change this narrative.

Segun Agbaje, CEO of GTCO, emphasises the importance of recognising the strengths of individuals with autism rather than focusing on their challenges.

“By embracing their talents and potential, society can provide individuals with autism the opportunities they need to succeed,” he asserts.

The conference, themed “A Spectrum of Possibilities,” advocates for greater inclusion and encourages society to support autistic individuals in finding their passions and making meaningful contributions.

One individual who embodies resilience in the face of autism is Zekwande Mathenjwa, a South African who has lived with ASD.

In his video titled ‘Escaping from Silence’, Zekwande shares his journey of overcoming social isolation and the struggles of growing up with autism.

With the help of a dedicated speech therapist, he was able to break communication barriers and connect with the world around him.

His story serves as a powerful reminder that with the right support, individuals with autism can lead fulfilling and successful lives.

As stakeholders continue to push for autism awareness and inclusivity, the future looks promising for individuals with autism in Africa.

Organisations like SuDAYI, backed by government policies, advocacy campaigns, and cultural education efforts, are paving the way for a society that embraces neurodiversity rather than marginalising it.

With continued collaboration, awareness, and policy development, Africa can move towards a future where every individual, regardless of ability, is empowered to lead a meaningful life. (NANFeatures)

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

Commonwealth should lead the discussion on slavery reparations
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Commonwealth should lead the discussion on slavery reparations

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By Mohammed Idris

As a new secretary-general assumes leadership of the Commonwealth, it seems de rigueur in some circles to dismiss the organisation as a relic of a bygone era.

To speak of it with any seriousness places one in a social pillory, the face upturned for pelting with the fruits of modernity.

Still, counterarguments exist. Nations would not be lining up to join if the Commonwealth were indeed an anachronism.

Shared bonds of language, legal codes and education systems make trade cheaper between member nations. If an English-speaking democratic association of nations did not exist, one would surely be created.

Ultimately, however, the Commonwealth today struggles to justify itself to wider audiences.

To make itself relevant, the Commonwealth must confront, not duck, the vital questions it is ready-made to address.

Forty years ago, the organisation faced an existential question of relations with apartheid South Africa.

Today it must tackle the issue of reparations for the largest forced migration in human history: the transatlantic slave trade.

Last year, at the biennial Commonwealth summit in Samoa, the final communique addressed the issue of reparations, stating: “The time has come for a meaningful, truthful, and respectful conversation towards forging a common future based on equity.”

It is no secret that support for the Commonwealth has traditionally – though not exclusively – come from those who reside on the right.

In response to the communique, some previously supportive voices in the media sounded the bugle for the United Kingdom’s exit – an echo of the lamentable reaction a generation ago when some called for continued relations with Pretoria against all the facts that made apartheid unpardonable.

It need not be this way. Opening the conversation on reparations would not only renew the organisation’s relevance; if approached with care, it could revitalise the Commonwealth itself, providing a shared unity of purpose and new common projects around which to rally.

Still, for many, the idea of reparations is difficult to fathom. The crime is vast in scale, spans centuries, and is geographically diffuse. Who should pay? To whom? Individuals, communities, governments? Yet no technical obstacles to redress should justify ignoring one of humanity’s greatest crimes.

The abduction of tens of millions of young Africans – at a time when the continent’s population hovered around 100 million – inflicted material harm that endures today.

Meanwhile, Britain and other European nations amassed wealth and power from the trade. This past continues to shape our present.

But it is perhaps the historical dimension that causes many to recoil: why should we pay for the crimes of our forebears, several generations removed? To ease resistance, we must abandon zero-sum thinking.

Funds and cooperation could be channelled into new joint ventures between Britain and other Commonwealth countries where both sides benefit: investments and programmes that create shared, long-term value, designed to outlast political cycles and changing administrations. These could be public, private, or both – but distinct from other initiatives already in existence.

Infrastructure should be a priority, driving economic development, creating jobs, and connecting the continent.

One of Africa’s defining challenges is its lack of intra-continental trade – a legacy of colonial-era resource extraction that funnelled raw materials out to the West rather than cultivating regional exchange.

A free trade agreement between Africa’s 54 nations is under way to reduce tariffs and unlock economic potential across the continent, but without material connectivity – roads, railways, ports – the transformative impact will be blunted.

Second, debt forgiveness should be up for discussion. No Western funds are required up front, only a write-down off government books.

Debt is corroding many African nations, exacerbated by a global financial architecture that favours Western interests and penalises developing nations.

This is no accident: banking, insurance, and capital markets were shaped by the profits and economic structures built during the era of slavery.

Today, many African nations spend more on debt repayments than on education and healthcare combined.

Fiscal space is required not only to fund development; it is essential for building climate resilience in the continent least responsible yet one of the hardest hit by rising temperatures.

What is certain is that calls to leave the Commonwealth will not silence the conversation on reparations. It was a central theme at the African Union summit in February, and the Caribbean Community has been actively pursuing the issue for over a decade.

Instead of retreating, why not lead – just as the Commonwealth did with collective sanctions isolating apartheid South Africa? No other global body, unrestricted by region, is facilitating serious discussion on feasible, practicable reparatory justice between developed and developing nations.

Once we move past the noise, a framework for reparations can be crafted that fosters mutual benefit rather than conflict.

Africa holds immense opportunity. Its markets are set to surge, driven by a demographic boom that will see one in four working-age people worldwide residing on the continent by 2050.

It is rich in the critical minerals that will power the energy transition and define the economies of the future.

To fully seize this opportunity, the past should be reckoned with and leveraged to create joint value.

The Commonwealth is often dismissed as a talking shop. But on this issue, talking is exactly what is needed.

Idris is the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Federal Republic of Nigeria

Made in Aba: A changing perception
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Made in Aba: A changing perception

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By Chijioke Okoronkwo, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

The catchlines “Aba-Made” and “Made-in-Aba”, no doubt, are household expressions in Nigeria, depicting Aba’s craftsmanship and manufacturing prowess.

From textile to leather products (shoes and bags), cosmetics, trunk box, steel fabrications, among others, Aba has carved a niche for itself as a commercial and industrial hub.

Daily, businessmen from across Nigeria, West Africa and other parts of Africa throng Aba to make wholesale purchases of a wide range of goods.

Data from INSIGHT NOTE-A Kwakol Research Publication indicates that Nigeria’s shoe industry’s developments are mainly influenced by the Aba clusters.

The data shows that Aba shoe hub is valued at more than N120 billion, producing more than a million shoes each week and more than 48 million pairs annually.

“The Aba shoe hub houses over 100,000 entrepreneurs and contributes 50 per cent of the total supplies in West Africa.

“Currently, there are more than 200,000 entrepreneurs and more than 30 firms producing shoes in different locations in the country’’.

The Aba Fashion Week 2024 (street fashion) which showcased an array of exquisite and eye-popping designs and collections was a veritable testament to Aba’s grassroots creativity.

Regrettably, in past years, Made-in-Aba products have been rated lowly in comparison with imported products chiefly due to compromised quality, inferiority complex or sheer consumer xenocentrism.

Lately interestingly, the narrative is changing; the quality is improving while acceptance and perception have soared remarkably.

Aba Made and Made-in-Aba are becoming affirmative phrases.

The artisans attribute the improving perception of Made-in-Aba products to their determination to hone their skills as well as the commitment of the state government and relevant authorities towards turning the tide.

Onyeibe Onyeibe, a shoemaker at Umuehilegbu Shoe Plaza, Ariaria International Market, said the artisans’ dexterity and ability to adapt kept them afloat in the completive industry.

“I have done shoe production for more than five years and I noticed that when a particular pattern comes out, you change to that pattern to sell your products.

“So, it is right to say that one of the things that have helped in boosting the patronage of our products is that we upgrade our designs.

“We need an enabling environment- power supply and good roads to help bring in materials and take out our products; we need an equipped shoe production cluster where we can use machines to finish our products.

“With these, our work will get better patronage more than we are getting now,’’ he said.

Sharing similar sentiments, Nnamdi Okoroha, a shoemaker, said the artisans were improving their skills yearly; hence, the increasing patronage.

“Again, we are trying to do good products and even Aba residents now wear the shoes made in Aba; it was not like that before.

“One of the problems we have is that the gum we are using is not as strong as it should be.

“So, we want government to intervene and ensure that importers bring in strong gum for us to do better jobs,’’ he said.

Another craftsman, Eze Nwambaraba, said the artisans were striving to avoid losses by stepping up their game and ensuring they churn out sellable and high-quality products.

“So, to ensure you do not lose, you have to put more effort to make your work attractive to the people.

“Our products compete with Dubai products now, but the high cost of raw materials has given Dubai products an advantage over our own.

“That is why we are calling on the government to reduce the cost of transportation and foreign exchange rate to ensure our products are not costlier than the ones imported from Dubai,’’ he said.

Mrs Ifeoma Nnanna, a trader, said she had jettisoned the skepticism over Made-in-Aba goods.

Nnanna said that shoes and garments she bought from Aba have stood the test of time and could be compared to high quality imported wears.

Worthy of mention, the Abia Government says it is bringing in innovation in its efforts to rebrand Made-in-Aba products and revamp the state’s economy.

Gov. Alex Otti recently announced plans to set up an export growth lab in Aba in collaboration with the UN Development Programme (UNDP).

“We believe that there is a whole lot we can learn from you.

“We, as a government, are not really going out looking for donor agencies; if we find, that is fine but a lot of times when the mindset is for somebody to give you money, you lose the argument.

“So, for us, it is about how you can support us to create an Export Growth Lab in Aba; we are already on it; we have acquired a place in Aba for it.’’

According to Otti, an average Aba artisan and entrepreneur is innovative and resilient but needs support.

The governor said his administration was committed to stamping out the issue of faking other people’s products.

“They are so innovative; they are so forward thinking; they are so resilient; even when Aba was a no-go area, they remained there.

“The fight we have is the fight about people adulterating food and drinks, including medicine; that is what we are committed to fight and eradicate.

“So, how can we upskill in technology and everything to produce that quality that can be exported? That, for me, is what it is all about.

“History has shown us that no country attains sustainable prosperity without a robust and competitive industrial base; we will assess and strategically resuscitate industries that have, for long, held untapped potential,’’ he said.

More so, the Federal Government recently said that through technology adoption, capacity building and quality reforms, it would foster an environment where Nigerian manufacturers would thrive locally and globally.

Worthy of recall, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) had, in 2024, announced plans to guide Micro, Small and Medium Entrepreneurs (MSMEs) in Aba to improve the standards of their products in order to compete favourably in the international market.

SON had organised a stakeholders’ sensitisation/capacity building workshop to educate artisans and other manufacturers on the need to standardise their products.

Just recently, SON reaffirmed it was ramping up efforts towards standardising locally manufactured products, including Made-in-Aba brands, to enhance both local and international acceptance.

SON’s Director of Region (South-East), Aharanwa Chuks, said through the Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP), SON ensured that all Nigerian-made products conformed to the relevant Nigerian Industrial Standards (NIS).

According to him, MANCAP involves direct engagement with manufacturers to certify that their products meet established quality benchmarks.

“This process includes inspecting production facilities, sampling products and testing them against NIS requirements.

“Successful compliance results in the issuance of the MANCAP certification, signifying adherence to quality standards.

“In Aba, SON has been proactive in educating manufacturers about standardisation’’.

The director said SON also conducted stakeholder interactions; gathering manufacturers from various sectors to provide guidance on producing goods that met both local and international standards.

“For instance, leather manufacturers in Aba have been sensitised on standardisation practices to enhance the global competitiveness of their products.

“Manufacturers are encouraged to collaborate with SON to obtain MANCAP certification, ensuring their products are not only marketable within Nigeria but also competitive internationally.

“This initiative aims to boost consumer confidence and promote the acceptance of Made-in-Aba products globally,” Chuks said.

Perceptive stakeholders say that in addition to sharpening local skills and growing indigenous technology, more Aba artisans should be sent to countries with advanced know-hows to hone their automated production skills.

They say the deployment of cutting-edge automation will give Made-in-Aba products the finishing and sturdiness needed for global competitiveness. (NANFeatures)

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

Nigeria’s water crisis: Beyond rising budget allocations
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Nigeria’s water crisis: Beyond rising budget allocations

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By Martha Agas, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

By many accounts, dearth of potable water has exacerbated economic challenges and fuelled the spread of waterborne diseases like typhoid and cholera.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) reports a 220 per cent increase in suspected cholera cases in Nigeria in 2024.

With Nigeria’s population exceeding 200 million, only about two-thirds have access to clean drinking water services despite the country’s abundant water resources.

Analysts argue that beyond contributing to waterborne diseases, the lack of potable water has consistently affected school attendance and performance, especially in rural areas and urban suburbs.

The impact is particularly severe for girls, who are often responsible for fetching water.

Analysts argue that this could be a contributing factor to the high number of girls out of school in Nigeria, which UNICEF reports as 7.6 million girls.

The importance of potable water is undeniable, as highlighted in the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6, which aims to ensure universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all by 2030.

Achieving this will enhance public health, stimulate economic growth, improve education and social well-being and foster environmental sustainability.

Consequently, stakeholders and experts have emphasised the need for the government to allocate sufficient resources to ensure access to safe drinking water and sanitation, recognising them as fundamental human rights.

They assert that resources are necessary to address the acute shortage of water supply caused by ageing public water infrastructure, a shortage of essential water treatment chemicals such as alum and chlorine and an erratic power supply.

More so, international water politics cannot be go unheeded.

Report from the Global Water Forum indicates that water security has become a central feature of the global policy agenda.

“Climate change, population growth, and pollution are altering the distribution of water resources and the political control of these resources is becoming increasingly contested.

“These and other water security threats are a source of conflict not only within countries but across international boundaries.

“International water politics describes the interactions between governments, non-government organisations, researchers and other actors that determine how and whether water management issues are addressed,’’ the report said.

In Nigeria, reports indicate increasing budgetary allocations to the water sector to address the existing challenges, but stakeholders observe that many states still have aging water facilities, limiting the sector’s performance.

For instance, in the 2017 budget, the Federal Ministry of Water Resources received a total allocation of N92 billion, with N85.1 billion dedicated to capital expenditure.

In 2018, the allocation increased by 68.6 per cent, reaching N155.1 billion, with N147.2 billion designated for capital expenditure.

However, in 2019, the allocation dropped to N100.5 billion, but saw a slight increase in 2020 of 0.01 per cent to ₦100.6 billion. Since then, there has been a steady rise in the budget.

In 2023, President Bola Tinubu’s administration allocated N242.2 billion; in 2024, the allocation increased by 22.5 per cent to N296.64 billion.

 

 

Data: Budget Office Graph: NAN

 

In spite of these increases, analysts argue that significant gaps persist and access to safe water remains poor.

They claim the country has regressed, shifting from a public water supply system to one dominated by private and donor-funded solutions.

They lament that, even though over 60 per cent of these budgets have been allocated to capital projects over the years, and 90 per cent in the last three years, there has been no visible improvement in access to potable water across the country.

Although the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, highlighted the performance of the 2024 budget, stating that 214 water schemes had been completed nationwide and that dam construction was progressing, stakeholders maintain that access to water remains disproportionate to the sector’s allocations over the years.

They attribute the sector’s challenges largely to the push for water privatisation, compounded by the persistent erratic power supply and insufficient public accountability in managing water resources.

A water rights advocate, Mr Philip Jakpor, called for the suspension of water privatisation as it had failed in other parts of the world.

He argued that the government should instead focus on strengthening public water infrastructure through political commitment.

Jakpor, Executive Director of Renevlyn Development Initiative (RDI), also urged greater focus on ensuring that the funds allocated to the sector each year are used for their intended purpose.

Similarly, Mr Chima Williams, Executive Director, Environmental Defenders Network, argued that despite Nigeria’s vast water resources, privatisation had made access more challenging for the people.

He said that many major waterworks were functioning below capacity and providing unreliable services, urging the government to take prompt action to prevent further deterioration of the sector.

Recently, a coalition of water justice organisations and the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE) presented a report titled “Dry Taps: A Damning Verdict on the State of Water Facilities in Nigeria.”

The report, a micro-analysis of water utilities across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones, utilised data from six states to assess the sector’s performance.

It observed that personal interests were hindering efficient public water services, alleging that government officials were sabotaging efforts to revive the sector for personal gain under the cover of privatisation.

Additionally, it noted that budgeted funds for the sector were either not released or failed to reflect in facility maintenance.

 

 

Summary of the challenges in public water infrastructure as captured in the report “Dry Taps: A Damning Verdict on the State of Water Facilities in Nigeria.” Graphics: NAN

 

The report advised the government to invest in alternative energy sources such as windmills and solar technologies to ensure uninterrupted water supply.

Additionally, it emphasised the need for staff training, improved welfare and the recruitment of additional technical personnel to enhance operational efficiency in the sector.

Worthy of note, the 2025 budget reflects the government’s commitment to advancing water and sanitation projects, including completing ongoing dam and irrigation projects, expanding the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) programme and scaling up flood and drought mitigation.

Stakeholders stress that the revival of public water infrastructure must remain a priority to ensure optimal performance.(NANFeatures)

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

Searching for right mood: Will self-comforting, coping scale fill the gap?
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Searching for right mood: Will self-comforting, coping scale fill the gap?

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By Stephen Adeleye, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

In a world full of disasters, hunger, sickness, deaths and other forms of physical and emotional deprivations, comforting oneself becomes an onerous task.

In spite of words of comfort from friends and relations, individuals faced with these situations have to dig deep to find self-soothing actions, otherwise known as self-comforting behaviours to overcome their emotional challenges.

Some of these activities include listening to music, watching movies, taking a stroll in the park, reframing negative thoughts to positive ones.

Others resort to religious and emotional outlets such as yoga, praying and singing to overcome their emotional challenges.

Willem Sleegers and Travis Proulx, Department of Social Psychology, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands, gave insights.

“People maintain systems of beliefs that provide them with a sense of belongingness, control, identity, and meaning, more generally,’’ they said.

Their position is contained in their study entitled: “The comfort of approach: self-soothing effects of behavioral approach in response to meaning violations.’’

However, many other victims of emotional crisis turn to what experts describe as pathological self-soothing to seek comfort.

These behaviours find expressions in binge drinking and eating, gambling, gaming, sex addiction; some even go as far as substance abuse.

Asmir Gracanin and a team of psychology scholars in a study found that given the parallels between self-soothing behaviors in humans and animals, crying might self-soothe.

The research tagged ”is Crying a Self-Soothing Behaviour’’ was published in Frontiers in Psychology.

As psychology scholars continue to navigate through the intricate world of self-comforting, a UK-based Nigeria academic, Dr Kennedy Obohwemu, recently announced the development of Self-Comforting and Coping Scale (SCCS), breakthrough in self-comforting research.

This is considered a landmark advancement in psychological assessment.

According to Obohewemu, his discovery is a revolutionary psychometric tool designed to empirically measure self-comforting behaviours.

Experts say Obohwemu’s innovative research breakthrough provides the first comprehensive and standardised framework for assessing an individual’s ability to self-soothe.

According to them, the research offers unprecedented insights into the complex dynamics of emotional regulation.

They say Obohwemu’s effort also offers a scientifically validated instrument that measures self-comforting behaviours and lays the foundation for an emerging psychological theory—the Self-Comforting and Coping Theory (SCCT).

Obohwemu’s Self-Comforting and Coping Theory posits that individuals who actively engage in self-comforting practices are more likely to demonstrate adaptive coping, reducing stress-induced dysfunction and promoting long-term psychological resilience.

“With far-reaching implications for mental health diagnosis, treatment and research, the SCCS is projected to transform the public understanding of coping mechanisms and empower clinicians, researchers and individuals to cultivate more effective emotional resilience strategies.

“The SCCS, developed through rigorous scientific methods, captures 13 distinct dimensions of self-comforting behaviours, including cognitive reframing, mindfulness, goal adjustment and self-compassion.’’

Unlike existing measures which focus on broad coping strategies, the SCCS offers a highly specialised assessment of self-soothing behaviours that influence emotional resilience, psychological stability and overall well being.’’

The outcome of the study was published in Global Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences, one of the leading in social sciences.

Dr Gbenga Alimi appraised Obohwemu’s efforts.

He said by developing the SCCS, Obohwemu has taken the lead in the search for a new psychological approach in the quest for understanding how self-comforting behaviours interact with resilience mechanisms and emotional wellbeing.

Obohwemu, meanwhile, described self-comforting as an overlooked but fundamental dimension of coping.

“With the SCCS and SCCT, we are not just measuring behaviour—we are redefining how we understand emotional self-regulation and psychological resilience.”

“The SCCS is poised to revolutionise multiple fields, including clinical psychology, education, occupational health and personal development.

“It offers psychologists a powerful new tool for assessing adaptive vs. maladaptive self-comforting strategies, allowing for targeted interventions in mental health treatment.

“Educators and workplace leaders can also benefit from the SCCS by identifying effective self-soothing strategies among students and employees, fostering emotional wellbeing, and preventing burnout,’’ he said.

Experts say the scale’s diverse applicability across clinical, academic and organisational settings underscores its potential to reshape how we approach stress management and resilience-building in everyday life.

Obohwemu acknowledges the limitations of his work and expects further studies to do justice to unanswered questions.

According to him, future research will expand on the SCCS by exploring its applications in diverse populations, conducting longitudinal studies, and further refining the SCCT.

“Additionally, cross-cultural validation will ensure that the SCCS remains globally applicable, addressing cultural variations in self-soothing behaviours.

“The introduction of the SCCS and SCCT marks a transformative moment in psychological science, bringing much-needed attention to self-comforting as a critical aspect of mental health,” Obohwemu said.

Psychologists say for mental health professionals, educators and researchers, the SCCS is more than just a scale—it is a game-changer.

Experts advise that that self-soothing should not be a substitute for seeking professional help when needed.(NANFeatures)

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

Special needs children: Enhancing inclusive learning experience in Oyo State
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Special needs children: Enhancing inclusive learning experience in Oyo State

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By Ibukun Emiola, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

 

Rofiah Oyekunle is a 13-year-old special girl with a deep-seated desire to become a teacher in the future.

 

Her physically challenged status notwithstanding, Rofiah shows no sign of submitting this precious dream to her disability.

 

Perhaps, being a pupil of Basic Special School, Adeoyo, Ring Road, Ibadan, is just the fuel she needs to keep believing in herself.

 

Of course, she reckons herself fortunate, knowing that her colleagues, unprivileged to attend special schools, have to stay back at home to watch their dream turn to a nightmare.

 

With this in mind, Rofiah’s determination to sail through the storms of disability became so endearing, as testified by Mrs Ganiyat Alabi, the headmistress of her school.

 

“That girl, if she writes or speaks for you, you will like it and adore her.

 

“Though she’s on a wheelchair with crippled hands, yet she writes, and she is intelligent,” said the proud headmistress.

 

Alabi, desiring more pupils in Rofiah’s standard, especially in Oyo State, said removing certain learning limitations would further aid the educational inclusiveness of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

 

She mentioned the long-distance pupils with disabilities had to travel to reach school, necessitating the need to reduce school days to two or three days per week.

 

“There are some pupils with disabilities who need to be stable and be around the school so that educating them will be easier than coming from home.

 

“So, distance is one of the challenges as well.

 

“There are some parents who have these children at home, but the stigmatisation and distance of taking them to school are barriers.

 

“It’s tough, especially when they look at the transportation fare, as they may have to spend between N3,000 and N4,000 daily.

 

“So, if you see some pupils once or twice per week, you should thank God that they could make it,” the headmistress said.

 

Alabi also identified the lack of personnel for different categories of disabilities present in special schools as another challenge facing inclusive learning.

 

The headmistress stated that there should be different classes for different disabilities to aid learning.

 

“Putting all of them together in the same classroom will jeopardise their learning because they are not all the same in terms of their disabilities and their degrees.

 

“For instance, those with autism see the world differently, but once we identify them and discover what interests them, we make that our focus.

 

“And sometimes, because some may be violent and disturb others, we ought not to put all of them together,” Alabi said.

 

While commending the state government for recently recruiting four special-needs teachers and non-teaching staff to the school, she asked for more intervention.

 

According to her, the lack of enough classrooms, teaching aids, boarding facilities, and teaching and non-teaching personnel constitutes a huge setback to inclusive learning.

 

“Sure, despite the new additional hands, we still need more teaching and non-teaching staff, and we need a hostel to be erected in the school compound.

 

“We have the space for that, and presently, we operate a temporary boarding facility which started in March but can only accommodate 20 out of the about 67 pupils we have,” Alabi said.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the nation’s Universal Basic Education (UBE) policy aims to make education accessible to all children, regardless of location or socio-economic background.

 

One of UBE’s objectives is to reduce the distance between schools and communities, making it easier for children to access education.

 

Findings, however, revealed that only 15 out of 33 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the state have schools for pupils with special needs.

 

Ibadan has nine such schools, comprising both public and private schools.

 

The situation is heightened by the lack of a policy framework, such as the gender-responsive Education Sector Plan (ESP) in Oyo State.

 

This is a means to ensure every child, irrespective of gender, accesses good and quality education without any form of barrier.

 

So, having an ESP in the state has become imperative for the inclusion of children with special needs who are currently out of school.

 

A parent of a pupil with special needs, Mrs Anna Ogundipe, said she didn’t mind the stress of taking her child to a government-owned special needs school, despite the long distance.

 

“We live at Yemetu in Ibadan, and because of schooling, my daughter, with a hearing impairment, has to change from the regular school to a special school for the deaf at Eleyele.

 

“At first, I thought if she was amid those who could speak, it would help her to hear and speak, but when her condition was worsening, I didn’t mind the distance.

 

“I enrolled her at the Ibadan School for the Deaf, and her condition greatly improved over a short period.

 

“I believe it will still be better,” Ogundipe said optimistically.

 

Also, Mrs Oladunni Adepoju, Headmistress, Sabol International School for the Physically Challenged, reiterated the need for massive government support.

 

According to her, many of the children are locked away in their homes because of the negative attitude of parents and society.

 

“If we do not care and make provisions for them to show they are part of society, then we’ll have many more of them becoming useless and unable to contribute to the country’s development, despite their disabilities,” she said.

 

Attesting to the various government interventions at the federal and state levels in the school, Adepoju called for special funds for the education, feeding, and basic healthcare of special needs children.

 

Meanwhile, Mr Femi Ajulo, Chairman, Joint Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), said the Oyo State Government had ensured the inclusion of PWDs in many of its programmes.

 

“Regrettably, while the government had included people with disabilities in its free education policy, many are still left at home with no access to education because of shame or stigmatisation,” he said.

 

According to Ajulo, there are about five to six schools for various categories of PWDs in the state.

 

“This has made it easy for them to get educated.

 

“The government has also provided a vocational centre for PWDs with a boarding facility, but it cannot accommodate everyone,” he said.

 

Ajulo believes the state ESP ensures inclusion and support for PWDs.

 

According to him, the government has promised to pay 10 per cent of the cost of schooling for PWDs attending private schools.

 

“Those who want their wards educated may not mind putting them in boarding facilities to reduce the distance challenge,” he said, acknowledging distance as a critical barrier to accessing education in the state.

 

Meanwhile, the Oyo State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Salihu Adelabu, said the government has a very elaborate framework for the different categories of PWDs.

 

“We are thinking of inclusive education, and a lot of things are in place too; any time soon, it will be seen.

 

“What we are doing right now is to try and map where they are, how many of them are in schools, and how many are not in schools,” Adelabu said.

 

He said the government aims to bring those out of school back to school with different types of programmes outlined for them. (NANFeatures)

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

Championing the future of women-owned businesses in Nigeria
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Championing the future of women-owned businesses in Nigeria

309 total views today

By Rukayat Moisemhe, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Nigeria boasts an estimated 40 million Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), with women owning 57.5 per cent of these businesses, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

However, the profitability of these women-owned businesses, particularly in a challenging economic environment, remains a key concern.

Numerous Nigerian women have proven their leadership capabilities, driving significant progress in various sectors despite obstacles.

Notable figures include Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, President of the World Trade Organisation; Mosunmola Abudu, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of EbonyLife Group; and Ibukun Awosika, a prominent business leader and philanthropist.

During March, designated as Women’s Month, events like International Women’s Day and Mothering Sunday highlight the importance of empowering women across cultural, emotional, physical and financial spheres.

Mrs Funlayo Bakare-Okeowo, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of FAE Envelopes, in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Lagos, said women make enormous contributions to economies.

These, she added include in businesses, on farms, as entrepreneurs, or by doing unpaid care work at home.

She said that closing the gender gap could give the global economy a seven trillion-dollar boost, hence the need to increase women’s empowerment.

The industrialist said that her organisation, which grew from a small business to a billion naira worth, has over 70 per cent of its staff strength as women.

“When more women work, economies grow, so investing in women’s economic empowerment sets a direct path towards gender equality, poverty eradication and inclusive economic growth,” she said.

Bakare-Okeowo stated that women across all fields need access to finance, continuous development and professional growth opportunities to thrive.

To support women in manufacturing, Director-General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, Mr Segun Ajayi-Kadir, noted the role women play not just in the manufacturing sector but in the broader economy of Nigeria.

He said women are not just contributors; they are leaders, innovators, and change-makers.

According to him, women have been at the forefront of driving growth, enhancing productivity and bringing fresh perspectives to the country’s industrial ecosystem.

Ajayi-Kadir, however, said that despite these contributions, challenges hindering women’s full participation in the workforce remain.

“It is important to reaffirm manufacturers’ commitment to promoting gender equality within the manufacturing sector.

“We are dedicated to creating an environment where women can excel, where their voices are heard, and where their contributions are valued.

“This includes implementing policies that support work-life balance, providing mentorship and training programmes and actively promoting women into leadership positions,” he said.

Mr Gbemi Adelekan, President of the Money Lenders Association, said many Nano, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (NMSMEs) are women-led and owned.

He stressed that providing them with better financial options would help improve women’s livelihoods and incomes.

Adelekan, however, noted that although the number of women-owned businesses is on the rise, access to credit from traditional banks remains tiresome.

He said that to cut through the disappointments, women could turn to mobile loan apps by licensed money lenders to get the required cash to meet emergency needs.

“The informal sector is a critical backbone of the economy of Nigeria, as it contributes to about 58.2 per cent of GDP, with women playing a major role in the economy through their activities in the informal sector.

“We need to stress the important contribution of the services of money lenders as an important tool for driving financial inclusivity and growth in Nigeria,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government, through the Bank of Industry (BOI), continues to assure women in commerce and business of its commitment to providing increasing access to finance to support their growth and development.

The bank, through several financial initiatives such as Project Guaranteed Loans for Women (GLOW), a N10 billion fund, the Impact Fund, and other funding mechanisms, continues to provide targeted interventions for women-owned businesses. (NANFeatures)

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

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