Category: Column

By Oladapo Sofowora
 
December is a particularly vibrant and deeply meaningful month in Nigeria, imbued with a palpable sense of excitement and celebration that permeates the air. As daily life slows down, this festive season offers a welcome opportunity for relaxation and togetherness. Families and friends gather to create cherished memories, participating in a rich tapestry of cultural activities that showcase Nigeria’s diverse heritage. The month is characterized by a colourful array of events, including theatrical plays, musical concerts, traditional festivals, operas, fashion shows, poetry readings, and various forms of performance arts, all reflecting the dynamic cultural expressions of Nigerian society.
 As December unfolds, the excitement continues to build, with streets and homes becoming vibrant displays of holiday spirit. Elaborate decorations adorn every corner, featuring colourful Christmas ornaments, twinkling lights, and festive paraphernalia that evoke a sense of wonder and joy. Evening skies light up with breathtaking fireworks, illuminating the night and further enhancing the joyous mood of the season. Year-end Thanksgiving parties have become commonplace, offering spaces for loved ones to gather, share meals, and express gratitude for the blessings and experiences of the past year. This period also allows Nigerians to reconnect with family and friends, many of whom travel from various parts of the globe to partake in these significant celebrations.
 As the year-end festivities for 2024 draw near, FirstBank has thoughtfully curated an exhilarating lineup of events under the DecemberIssaVybe program, aimed at enhancing the enjoyment of this festive season. A highlight of this initiative is the much-anticipated concert featuring The Cavemen, a celebrated musical duo. Which was held on Friday, December 27, 2024, at Muri Okunola Park, located along the bustling Lekki-Epe Expressway, the event brought Lagos to life with a captivating performance that seamlessly blends highlife, soul, and folk music. Attendees enjoyed an engaging experience filled with mesmerizing sounds for over an hour, keeping them on their feet and immersed in the rhythm.
 The atmosphere at the concert was electrifying, drawing a diverse crowd of enthusiastic youth eager to experience The Cavemen’s unique interpretation of highlife music—a genre deeply rooted in Nigerian culture and characterized by its rich, rhythmic beats and soulful melodies. The concert also featured an impressive lineup of other notable artists, such as the popular act Ckay, who collectively contributed to a night filled with remarkable entertainment and unforgettable performances. The stage witnessed a pulsation of energy as The Cavemen’s talented band propelled the evening forward, delivering an infectious performance marked by masterfully executed guitar riffs, powerful drumming, and enchanting vocals. Audiences found themselves wholly absorbed in the moment, as the music unites them in joy and celebration, showcasing the revitalization and redefinition of the highlife genre that The Cavemen have pioneered.
In addition to the music, the concert artfully integrates comedic performances, highlighting the vibrant and diverse creative entertainment scene in Africa. Acclaimed comedians took to the stage, drawing laughter and delight from the crowd, while emerging music also had their moment in the spotlight, receiving enthusiastic applause and encouragement from an appreciative audience. Recognising the profound impact of December in nurturing relationships and spreading joy, FirstBank has actively engaged its First@arts initiative to launch the annual DecemberIssaVybe campaign. This initiative is meticulously crafted to inspire and empower individuals across Nigeria to create and experience exhilarating moments throughout this joyous season. By providing fully sponsored access to premium concerts, theatrical performances, shows, and festivals featuring some of the industry’s top entertainers, FirstBank aims to alleviate the financial burdens that often accompany festive celebrations.
 In a time marked by economic uncertainty, FirstBank stands as a crucial support system for Nigerians wishing to celebrate without the weight of added financial stress. With a proud legacy spanning over 130 years, this esteemed financial institution has woven itself into the fabric of Nigerian life. FirstBank has long championed numerous festive concerts showcasing Africa’s music icons, including Kizz Daniel, Davido, Burna Boy, Asake, and Tiwa Savage, crafting unforgettable experiences for music aficionados across the nation.
The DecemberIssaVybe campaign encapsulates the essence of creating lasting memories during this festive season. It serves as a dynamic platform for both local and international audiences to immerse themselves in unique, culturally rich experiences tailored to the holiday spirit. Since its inception in 2018, the FirstBankIssaVybe campaign has quickly become a highly anticipated annual event, delighting participants with exhilarating moments designed to resonate and linger long after the celebrations are over. Olayinka Ijabiyi, the Acting Group Head of Marketing & Corporate Communications at FirstBank, emphasized the institution’s unwavering commitment to crafting a ‘Wow December to Remember’ experience for individuals of all ages. He stated, “FirstBank is devoted to facilitating memorable homecoming experiences this December through gatherings such as weddings, family reunions, and festive celebrations, ensuring that every moment spent together is cherished.” Through this commitment, FirstBank continues to play a pivotal role in the celebration of culture and community during this significant time of year.

By Ikeddy ISIGUZO
Once President Bola Ahmed Tinubu addresses Nigerians it is clear that his silence is actually golden, as it gives chances to guess what the President feels about ordinary Nigerians, the hungry, the poor, the weak, those excluded from Tinubu’s concerns because they are not rich. The President rushing in with a media chat, after 18 months in office, and days after the “poverty stampede” in Ibadan, where mainly children died, was thought to be an opportunity to explain to Nigerians, elicit their support as they go through a crushing economic crisis that the President gloats about as if the entire purpose of his policies is to inflict pains. The deaths in Ibadan that were over 35, were followed by similar incidents in a church in Abuja, and an individual’s event in Okija. The deaths resulted from free distribution of rice to the needy. Poverty once personal, private, is now public, and deadly.
Just blame rice.
Are opponents using free rice to distract the President from focusing on his economic policies? The President should ban rice for more clarity. No rice, no stampede, no deaths. One of my teachers said the solution to headache was decapitation – no head, no headache, or any ache for that matter.
We remember Tinubu promised Nigerians “agbado (corn) and cassava”. Not rice. More people have fallen into poverty without the President’s permission. Should they? Could this account for the President not knowing about them? What really does the President know about Nigerians?
Does he know that more people would have died if they knew of these events? Food is beyond the reach of ordinary Nigerians. Tinubu does not feel the impact of his harsh economic practices of lavish spending on presidential consumptions, unproductive as they are. Some call the spendings reckless.
Would you blame them? In the midst of a drifting economy, soaring inflation, no jobs, hunger, anger, capped with insecurity, the President bought jets, including one for the Vice President, and maintains a bloated cabinet.
He used the presidential chat as a platform to defend his Ministers. They are performing. He sounded as if he needed more people like the bunch that maintains a distance from the daily challenges people face.
For the President to see “switching off things” as the solution to poor electricity supply – and the frequency with which the national grid collapses – was one indication that governance has become a joke. When the Minister of Power, months ago, held the same position on electricity, the public tore him to shreds. The Minister apologise. Tinubu blamed the organisers for the stampede, “I see this as a very great error on the part of the organisers.” He said he had been giving out foodstuffs, including envelopes, smoothly at his Bourdillon residence in the past 25 years. “If you do not have enough to give, don’t publicise it,” he advised organisers.
The organisers too are poor, and have no Bourdillon pedigrees. These things count.
Do not expect Tinubu to blame the new wave of incremental poverty his hope agenda has renewed. He did not. He will not. If Tinubu halts the slide to absolute poverty for more Nigerians, there would be no deadly rice stampedes, and no organisers to blame. Other Nigerians have organised these events for years without incidents. Large crowds would turn up and go home home safely. Was it not rice they shared? What is the difference now? People are out searching for something to eat, anything. Even if “pure water” is being shared, there will be stampede. Our people are living by the minute.
They have lost hope. Nigerians have no assurance that someone cares about their efforts to survive. Millions of our compatriots are ready to do anything to survive. While at it, insecurity is not allowing them to breathe.
Sadly, more of our people are falling into crimes with the times.
Employment opportunities are shrinking. The few jobs available are for relations of those in power, the rich, the very rich, the same ones who accuse us of greed. Do they have a different meaning for greed?
Last October, the Senate President, His Excellency Obong Godswill Akpabio on the floor of the Senate advised poor Nigerians, “Times are difficult, wherever you see free food, please endeavour to avail yourself”. Could the people have followed Akpabio’s perspective of the solution to poverty and the hard times? Mocking the poor is Akpabio’s favourite idea of enlivening Senate sessions.
“The prayer is that, let the poor breathe, and Senator Mustapha has seconded that the poor should breathe. Those who are in support of the additional prayer that the poor should be allowed to breathe, say ‘ayes’ and those who are against say ‘nay,’” Akpabio had said in July 2023 during a debate on the 15 per cent hike of electricity tariff. “The ayes have it! The poor must be allowed to breathe,” Akpabio concluded.
At a Niger Delta Development Commission event in July 2024, Akpabio mocked those who called for demonstration over the economic hardship. “Those who want to protest can protest, but let us be there eating,” the former Akwa Ibom State Governor had said. In Tinubu’s 18 months, poverty has pole-vaulted to dizzy heights that left Nigerians dazed.
The only thing worse is the President’s spectacular performances when addressing his failure to rein in inflation as he drives the economy with the enthusiasm of kids playing with new toys. People are hungry. Some people around the President call poor, hungry Nigerians “greedy”. Someone looking for what to eat is greedy? Have we fallen so low to justify the President’s unwillingness to accept that the problem is well beyond him?
Is he using his uncaring attitude as a buffer? He is the bigger problem by refusing to engage the people. Rather, he talks down on them when he decides to talk, well aware that he has nothing to say.

Take the tax bills, for instance, they have their merits. Tinubu thinks it is beneath him to discuss issues the radical bills raise. He sneers, the bills will be passed. He takes responsibility for nothing. Tinubu sounds like Rik Rok and Shaggy in their famous 2000 hit song, “It Wasn’t Me”. The President provides answers without addressing our concerns. The answers are always dismissive. The major lesson of 2024 is that Nigerians have to continue looking after themselves. It may even annoy those who are just discovering that they cannot decide when we should stop breathing.
Happy New Year, that is peaceful – prosperity will follow peace.
Finally… INFLATION to crash from 34.6% to 15% in 12 months, is what the President has promised in 2025. Safe trip, Mr. President.
FEDEERAL Capital Territory Minister Ezewoke Nyesom Wike said of those who accuse him of land grabbing, “Peo­ple say land grabbing, do you grab what you are in charge of? I am in charge of land in Abuja how will I go and grab what I am in charge of? Those, who are grabbing land are whom I am dealing with”. Wike, at the Port Harcourt event where he spoke, did not forget to call Governor Sim Fubara, “this boy”.
*ISIGUZO is a major commentator on minor issues

By Ambassador Richard M. Mills, U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria
Every December, we mark three international observances that are at the heart of the U.S.-Nigeria partnership: World AIDS Day, International Anti-Corruption Day, and Human Rights Day.  While distinct, these commemorations underscore a simple truth – Nigeria’s path forward requires progress on health, good governance, and human rights.  The United States remains your steadfast partner on this journey. For two decades, the United States has stood with Nigeria in the fight against HIV/AIDS under the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).  The U.S. government has invested more than $8.3 billion in Nigeria’s health sector and provided life-saving anti-retroviral treatment to more than 1.5 million people.  These numbers represent improved life expectancy and quality of life for these Nigerians and their families.  In clinics across Nigeria, I’ve met dedicated healthcare workers who deliver HIV prevention, treatment, and care, supported by the resources of the American people.  This work has done more than save lives – using HIV as an entry point, Nigeria’s health system has also benefited.  
As Nigeria’s health system is strengthened, this important work will be led by government and engagement with the private sector to sustain the gains.  This commitment was reinforced during Ambassador Nkengasong’s recent visit, where his discussions with Nigerian health officials focused on how the Government of Nigeria would sustain the HIV health programs with strengthened Nigerian leadership and local ownership. But positive health outcomes depend critically on good governance.  When medical supplies are diverted, when healthcare workers go unpaid, when facilities buy dangerous, counterfeit medications or lack resources due to mismanaged funds, it costs lives. 
This is why the United States supports numerous initiatives, not only in the health sector, to enhance transparency and accountability in Nigeria.  Our programs work directly with government agencies and civil society organizations to strengthen fiscal responsibility with the goal of the state ensuring resources reach their intended beneficiaries.
The success of these efforts rests on respect for human rights and civic engagement.  When members of marginalized communities face discrimination in accessing healthcare, when citizens fear reporting blatant corruption like the need to pay for appointments or ‘free’ healthcare, or when vulnerable populations cannot advocate for their needs, development falters.  Through our partnership with Nigeria, we promote the rights of every person to access essential services and enjoy fundamental freedoms without fear or discrimination. These three areas – health, transparency, and human rights – reinforce each other. 
Consider the results: U.S.-supported initiatives have helped strengthen pharmaceutical supply chains, reducing theft and ensuring safe medicines reach patients.  Our human rights programming has empowered civil society organizations to advocate for marginalized communities, leading to better access to health services.  Our health system investments have created platforms for transparency that benefit all sectors.  And, perhaps most importantly, according to a recent survey by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Nigerians are both more frequently refusing to pay bribes and reporting bribe seekers to investigative journalists and rule of law authorities.  A shift in norms is beginning to take root and must continue.    
 The U.S. Embassy stands ready to support Nigerian voices pressing the fight against corruption in Nigeria.  To Nigeria’s government officials, civil society leaders, healthcare workers, and citizens:  your dedication to building a stronger nation inspires us.  Together, we can continue to advance the interconnected goals of better health outcomes, good governance, and human rights for all Nigerians.  Challenges remain, but the work we’ve done together shows what could be possible on a larger scale across these crucial domains. As we mark these December observances, let us use this moment not just for reflection, but for renewed commitment and action.  The United States continues to stand with the Nigerian people as they carry out this essential work with their elected government.
*Ambassador Richard M. Mills is U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria

By Omoh Gabriel

At the gathering in Lagos of young entrepreneurs and well wishers of Tony Elumelu to celebrate his 60th birthday, former America President Bill Clinton in a video clip thanked Elumelu for believing in a better future. This is a profound statement as many African politicians who have the responsibility of shaping a better future for Africans have only worked for their pockets. Yet, one of the beneficiary said that it is hard to believe that a man like Tony would invest so much of his hard earned money on youths without asking for anything in return, not even a vote. She echoed the voice of several African young entrepreneur whom Elumelu  had touched and help to grow their businesses. The two speakers elucidate the yearnings of Africa youths who have been denied the needed conducive environment to grow. Tony is one who believe strongly in share value and in pursuit  of this has been giving back to society through the several businesses he has established. He is one person who believe that the Africa narrative can be changed for good through entrepreneurship. At 60, he can look back with some level of satisfaction that life has been kind to him, and he has been kind to other human beings by making life better for them. Those who have had contact with him at close quarter will testify of his kind gesture. The foundation he sets up after stepping down as the CEO of UBA has impacted many. He has trained well over 1.5 million entrepreneurs across Africa. The foundation has disbursed about $100 million to around 18,000 aspiring Africa entrepreneurs who have created over 400,000 jobs across Africa. He tells Africa youth that the Future of Africa is in their hands 

In 2014, while in Vanguard as the Group Business Editor, I had the unenviable task of having to write a tribute for him as the Vanguard Business Personality 2014. Here is what I wrote then. “Africa has long been described as a dark continent where nothing good is happening apart from savagery and war of attrition. This notion has in the past tended to make African stars to be clouded out of reckoning by others. Today, a new vocabulary called African capitalism has entered into the global business dictionary. It is the idea of an African, a Nigerian who is making waves in the international business arena, whose voice can no longer be ignored.   He believes that Africa should take its destiny of economic emancipation in its own hand. As it was in Europe in the 16th century when some group of business men in search of profit developed Europe and America, this eminent Nigerian also believes that African businesses can change the face of Africa and transform it from a poor and needy continent to an industrialised one.

“The high priest and chief advocate of this noble idea also believes that the current trend, where in Africa, the primary advocates for investing with social impact – that is the creation of value, jobs, and wealth, are philanthropic agencies and NGOs can be replaced by African businesses taking the lead in development. He has set up institutions to instil entrepreneurial values in African youths to make them stand out as employers of labour instead of ending up in paid white collar jobs. He believes that for Africa to successfully achieve optimistic growth targets, particularly in the consumer sector, wealth must be created on a far larger scale, with broader participation than exists today. Thus value and wealth creation can no longer be a niche business and investment practice: they should drive all private sector development in Africa. The Africapitalism concept which asserts value creation through entrepreneurship is Africa’s unique future. Like capitalism itself, the Tony Elumelu is urging  African businesses to view their operations from the perspective of creating economic value in a way that also creates value for society by addressing needs and challenges. Tony O. Elumelu is the voice crying in the African business wilderness for Africans to look inwards and imbibe the spirit of knowledge economy to develop Africa.

“Elumelu was born on 22 March 1963. He is a Nigerian economist, banker, investor, and philanthropist. Elumelu as of today is the Chairman of Heirs Holdings, a pan-African proprietary investment company with interests in strategic sectors of Africa’s economy. He is the founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, an Africa-based and African-funded not-for-profit organisation (NPO) that is dedicated to the promotion and celebration of excellence in business leadership and entrepreneurship across Africa. Elumelu holds the Nigerian national honour, the Commander of the Order of Nigeria, CON. New African magazine listed him as one of the 100 most influential people in Africa. He has a Bachelor’s degree from Ambrose Alli University and a Master of Science degree, also in Economics, from the University of Lagos. He is an alumnus of Harvard Business School’s Advanced Management Programme. In his early career, Elumelu made a name for himself when he acquired and turned Standard Trust Bank into a top-five player in Nigeria. In 2005, his corporate reputation as an African Business Leader was sealed when he led the largest merger in the banking sector in Sub-Saharan Africa to acquire United Bank for Africa, UBA. In five years he transformed it from a single-country bank, to a pan-African institution with over 7 million customers in 19 African countries.

“Following his retirement from UBA in 2010, Elumelu founded Heirs Holdings, which invests in the financial services, energy, real estate and hospitality, agribusiness, and healthcare sectors; all of which help to create economic prosperity and social wealth across the continent. In the same year, he established the Tony Elumelu Foundation, an African-based and African-funded, philanthropic organisation dedicated to the promotion of excellence in business leadership and entrepreneurship, to enhance the competitiveness of the private sector across Africa. In 2011, Heirs Holdings acquired a controlling interest in the Transnational Corporation of Nigeria Plc , Transcorp, a publicly quoted conglomerate that has business interests in the agribusiness, energy, and hospitality sectors. Elumelu was subsequently appointed Chairman of the Corporation.

World Economic Forum’s member. He serves as an Adviser to the USAID’s Private Capital Group for Africa, PCGA, Partners Forum. He sits on the Nigerian President’s Agricultural Transformation Implementation Council, ATIC. He is also vice-chairman and a key driver in the formation of the National Competitiveness Council of Nigeria, NCCN, and serves as Co-Chair of the Aspen Institute Dialogue Series on Global Food Security. He additionally chairs the Ministerial Committee to establish world-class hospitals and diagnostic centres across Nigeria, at the invitation of the Federal Government.

“He was a member of the World Economic Forum’s Regional Agenda Council on Africa.   His presence on the Bretton Woods Committee, which brings together senior leaders in the global banking industry, is recognition of his work on African development.   He is a Fellow of the Nigeria Leadership Initiative, NLI. He insists that Africapitalism is not capitalism with an African twist; it is a rallying cry for empowering the private sector to drive Africa’s economic and social growth. Elumelu subscribes to Michael Porter’s concept of Creating Shared Value (CSV). He studied under Professor Porter at Harvard Business School and Professor Porter is the Founding Patron of The Tony Elumelu Foundation.
Recognition In 2013, Mr. Elumelu received the Leadership Award in Business and Philanthropy from the Africa-America Institute, AAI, Awards.   He was also named African Business Icon at the 2013 African Business Awards”. 

A toast for this great Africa achiever. Happy birthday.

By Omoh Gabriel

Once again the social economic milieu in which election are conducted in Nigeria has open the old wounds of state of origin and the associated norm of federal character. As a result of the level of poverty on mind of the citizenry, poverty of the individual in their welfare, the ordinary citizen is being used by politicians to visit discard acts on innocent Nigerians. In Lagos for instance some individuals boldly asked some sets of Nigerians not to come out on election day. Many Nigerians especially the youths are bruised and it is time to beginning the healing process. For who ever has been elected must develop policies that will unite the nation. For quite some years now the Nigeria nation has witnessed a wave of unprecedented call for restructuring of the polity and the trooping out of Nigeria of young and skilled youths. This development is traceable to the feelings of being marginalised by the various nationalities that make up Nigeria. Many feel they are not getting their fair share of the nation’s resources while some are getting more than they deserve. This threatening social upheaval is rooted in economic deprivation of the masses. While some group of politicians, whether Hausa-Fulani, Yoruba or Igbo have individually or collectively shortchanged Nigerians, the poor Hausa-Fulani, the poor Yoruba or Igbo suffers the same hunger, deprivation, insecurity threat and economic marginalisation as any other. The unfortunate thing however, is that the poor and needy Nigerians have not been able to come together to find a lasting solution to their common problem.

Two things are now very needful for Nigeria as a nation. The very first thing is for who ever form the government at all levels to become creative and productive to steer the economy and usher in lasting prosperity. If Nigerians are gainfully employed, feel secured, can find good schools for their children, functional hospitals not consulting clinics, regular power supply and an enabling business environment, they will not bother from which tribe the president or governor comes from. It is the inadequacy of opportunity in the country that has created the milieu that has given rise to agitation as those in power are seen to be appropriating what belongs to the nation to themselves and their region of origin. Nigeria social political situation is comparable to the multi cultural circumstances in America. They have a diverse group. They are able to cope with social pressure because there is opportunity for all. The average American does not bother if a family produces the president or senator or Governor for several years. The system works because they are gainfully employed. Nigeria leaders must work at improving the economy and ensuring that the welfare of all Nigerians improve on continuous basis.

The second thing is that Nigeria must come out of the so called state of origin stigma. Nigeria is a country inhabited by Nigerians. It does not give any body a sense of belonging after leaving in any part of Nigeria for several years and still be called a settler or non indigene. These so called non indigenes pay taxes, levy and other dues more than the so called indigenes, yet they are strangers who can not own land in their place of settlement. The Federal Government should as a matter of urgency delete the use of state of origin from the statute books and replace it with place of birth or settlement. This will give every Nigerian a sense of belonging to pursue his or her legitimate economic dream anywhere in Nigeria. Nigerians by the current agitation have come to agree that the greatest challenge facing the development of this great nation is not necessarily corruption, but lack of national identity and sense of belonging in the country. 

Nigerians owe their loyalty to either the north or south or tribe. Politicians who want to get undue advantage not necessarily for the north or south, usually fan the embers of North/South dichotomy. In the late 70s, when General Murtala Muhammed came on the Nigerian political scene, he had a vision of what he thought Nigeria should be that it was not. As a military general, who participated in keeping Nigeria one, he was consumed with the passion for a united Nigeria, a Nigeria that is free from the encumbrance of North-South dichotomy. He wanted to see a Nigeria where there was justice and fair play to all, no matter where they came from. That was what led to his renaming states he created and those created before him according to landmarks instead of the North, South, West and East naming of states in the country. The ideals of Murtala was catching on, in that most Nigerians were beginning to see themselves as belonging to Nigeria and not region before the men with flowing agbada returned to the scene to reintroduce the North-South equation and ethnic arithmetic into the body politics of Nigeria. It was at the Constituent Assembly that these old politicians, whose interest is their pockets and stomach, smuggled into the national dialogue, geo-political zones. It was in a bid to continue the old political economy and ethnic arithmetic that has dragged the nation backward for years. 

The PDP then latched on it by its constitution insisting on power rotation and sharing according to the defined six geo-political zones. These zones were artificially created along political leanings and not comparative economic advantage of any sense. The idea of political zoning, which ought to have been a party affair within the PDP, was turned into a national issue depriving the nation of the best hand to serve the fatherland, Nigeria, at the highest political level. As Nigerians continue the debate on the merits and otherwise of restructuring the nation, it must agree to dispense with issues of zoning, state of origin, federal character, and catchment area admission policy in federal schools that have dragged the nation back. State of origin in Nigeria’s body politics is the evil machination of Nigerian politicians that has hindered even economic development. A Nigerian is a Nigerian. Restructuring must free Nigerians from this baggage. A Nigerian can be born anywhere but must be free to live, work and own properties anywhere in the country he chooses to live in without let and hindrance. 

The constitution that will come out from the restructuring exercise must make it a criminal offence for any official of federal, state or local government or private sector employer to ask any Nigerian of his or her state of origin. Nigerian politicians should be ashamed of themselves to have allowed this for so long. Countries like America, Australia and Canada are asking millions of citizens of other countries to migrate to their countries yearly and such migrants are given equal opportunity. This is because of the economic advantage a growing population confers on a country. China today is an economic powerhouse because of its market size and a huge productive population that offers cheap and affordable labour to international businesses on the one hand and a huge market from the middle class. In China, it is not just that there is corruption, it is of high magnitude, yet the country is moving forward economic wise. Here at home, we have human resources we are wasting on the basis of state of origin. Many Nigerians who ordinarily would have been gainfully employed have no access to such job opportunities because of their state of origin. It is an act of political intolerance to see a fellow Nigerian as a foreigner in his homeland. It is this political intolerance that would make a state governor to deport a Nigerian from his state to his home state. It is only in Nigeria that there is deportation within a nation’s sovereign borders.  

A Nigerian from Sokoto must be able to live in Rivers, work in Rivers and become a governor there if the people so desire.  Same for an Edo, Ijaw, Yoruba or Ibo men living anywhere in the northern part of the country. It is by so doing that Nigerians can ever give their best for the nation. This is what will encourage mobility of labour and douse the current tension in the land. Nigerians will not be interested where the president or governor comes from if the economy is growing and absorbing able-bodied men and women as they come out from schools. Nigerians will be gladdened to see any president where ever he comes from who will guarantee them 24 hours of power supply, access roads, security of life and property, freedom of movement of goods and services and food on their table. The restructuring effort being canvassed must be ready to confront the issue of federal character that has enthroned mediocrity in public service. A Nigerian from anywhere in the country must aim at being the best. It is unfortunate that today, the question of federal character has been stretched to a ridiculous limit.  Nigerians must deal with it if it intends to develop knowledge economy. It must also deal decisively with the question of catchment area in university admissions in federal institutions that have made it near impossible for national integration. Restructuring for the sake of political convenience of the ruling class will amount to nothing if these key issues are not addressed.

Nigeria it will be recalled after Independence was on the right path of economic growth and development. It had visionary leaders who were interested in the welfare of the people. Industries were springing up in every region of the country. In the North, Ahmedu Bello who held sway was pre-occupied by setting up farm settlements, textile industries. It was the same story in the East where Michael Opera set up farm settlements and a number of manufacturing companies. In the West, Chief Awolowo, apart from the popular free education, set up a number of industrial estates which attracted several companies from abroad. It is this simple reason that the West is the most educated and industrialised part of the country. 

At this time, the Nigeria economy was in top shape and at take off stage in economic development mantra.  The Nigerian economy was rated along the same indices with Brazil, Indonesia, Malaysia and the rest of the now talked about BRICKS countries. Then Nigeria had development plans that guided the nation. In the North pyramids of groundnuts and cotton were part of foreign exchange earning commodities. In the West, cocoa was found in abundance. in the South South and South East palm oil and kernel were export commodities. These brought pride to the Nigerian nation. The various regions were autonomous entities and there was competition among the regions on internally generated revenue. The military intervention and the discovery of crude oil in commercial quantity radically altered the course of Nigeria’s economic development. While the military discarded the fiscal federalism structure of the country and made the states to become federal allocation collector, the discovery of oil made Nigerian leaders to sleep walk and refuse to plan believing that the money flowing from the ground will solve all the nation’s problems.  As Nigerian leaders were sleep walking and basking in the euphoria of petro-dollar earnings, Nigeria’s population was growing faster than the resources. Peter Drucker, the management expert, in his book the practice of management wrote “Innovation is the specific instrument of entrepreneurship, the act that endows resources with a new capacity to create wealth. Nigeria leaders failed to yield his management counsel, and today here we are with agitation for separation.

By Ikeddy ISIGUZO  

Do agreements matter in Nigeria? It depends on who you are dealing with, a lawyer said without losing a breath. Does it matter if it is a business agreement with the Federal Government of Nigeria? Lawyers would be at their best answering the questions on 18 March 2021 at the Federal High Court, Lagos. Our National Theatre is the matter, not venue, of the contention it does not deserve. Who owns it? Who does not own it? Should a common property with known ownership be in dispute? The court would decide this matter that has travelled several roads since it began nine years ago. It dates more years back. Under President Olusegun Obasanjo the dilapidated National Theatre was put up for concession. The process stalled. A new drive began in 2012 and was deemed concluded when the Attorney-General of the Federation signed off on the concession agreement on 3 May 2017.   

TopWideApeas Consortium won the concession and was duly announced the concessionaire for the development of the fallow lands surrounding the National Theatre Complex to an eco-friendly grand mini-city housing two five-star hotels, water theme park, arts and entertainments arcades, office complexes, shopping mall and a high-rise car park, as well as providing appropriate connections to the Lagos light rail Metro Blue Line station planned for the National Theatre Complex.  TopwideApeas Consortium says it raised nearly $2biillon USD as a total investment portfolio for these projects.  Not a dime of the money was required from the government. Instead TopWideApeas was to pay billions of Naira in annual concession fees and taxes during the duration of the concession.   It posted the concession bond requirement of N1 billion. The other gains were thousands of jobs that would be generated during a construction period of over four years and new jobs to manage the facility.   

According to the concession agreement, all developments are to be handed over to the Federal Government in good and operating condition at end of the concession period. The project was already being tagged a signature project of the Buhari Administration. The preservation of the National Theatre, our cultural edifice, one of the most famous landmarks of Nigeria, the epicentre of the monumental 1977 Festival of Arts and Culture, Festac, the global event that brought cultural troupes of black people all over the world to Nigeria, was on its way. Nigerians so hoped.  Statutory responsibility for the concession was vested on the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission, ICRC, which had in May 2013 issued to the Minister of Tourism and Culture a letter of “No Objection” for “the development of complementary facilities to the National Theatre via Public Private Partnership, PPP, Procurement.” BGL Limited was ICRC’s Transaction Adviser.  

At the very strong request of senior officers of the National Theatre and the involved government agencies, TopWideApeas Consortium assumed the extra responsibility for a comprehensive rehabilitation and upgrading of the Complex to synchronise with the planned new structures with the agreement that upon completion of the rehabilitation, the National Theatre would be handed over to the Federal Government for continued management by the Board of the Complex. The agreement increased the construction costs. TopWideApeas did not object. Curious, new matters issued thence.  Jadeas Trust staked its interests over the failed Obasanjo exercise. It sued the Federal Government.  With all the processes concluded, the Minister for Information, Culture & Tourism Alhaji Lai Mohammed’s formal presentation of the contract details to the Federal Executive Council was stood down thrice due to the Jadeas Trust Vs. FGN court case. The case was subsequently resolved. 

TopWideApeas now initiated the final move for the Minister of Information to get the final FEC approval – the latest drama surfaced. By December 2019, Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Minister for Information, Tourism & Culture (Lai Mohammed), Access Bank Plc and Herbert Wigwe representing the Bankers Committee were among defendants in a case TopWideApeas filed. The other Defendants were the Board of the National Theatre, Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission, and Attorney-General of the Federation. The case was adjourned to 18 March 2021. TopWideApeas lawyers’ motion for interlocutory injunction to restrain any interference with the subject of the suit is equally pending.  These did not stop CBN and the Bankers Committee, acting on a supposed authority of the Federal Executive Council, to on 14 February 2021 assume control of the theatre. A similar lawlessness on 12 July 2020 had vast media coverage.  

Beyond the legal matters, what is the interest of CBN in spending N25 billion in a project that the private sector has willingly taken up, at a time government is borrowing to meet its routine obligations? Who would manage the theatre after the CBN investment?  What is the worth of agreements that have sailed through the testy routes of government approvals? TopWideApeas has been on this project for nine years? Is there the ease of doing business agenda that the government promotes?  At a time of droughts in investments, why would government agencies turn against those who are committing their resources to Nigeria? What is the challenge with the TopWideApeas concession? Why would the government and its agencies not be willing to subject themselves to the law?  Interests in the National Theatre are global. TopWideApeas Consortium that raised the $2 billion for the project has partners from the United States, Russia, and the European Union. How would they understand how business works in Nigeria? Are we concerned that prospective investors – some could be connected to the ones involved in the National Theatre – could be watching the outcome of these tentative steps that have kept the business in the cold for eight years?  The National Theatre cannot continue hosting this show of impunity.

*Isiguzo is a major commentator on minor issues

By Omoh Gabriel

In recent weeks, the setting up of a vigilante group Amotekun by the South West has fuelled the agitation for restructuring and like touching a tiger by the tail woken up the sentiment of those against restructuring the nation. Those against Amotekun has forgotten the insecurity in that part of the country that has forced the governors to come together to seek ways to reduce the insecurity in the region. Security of lives and property is the primary responsibility of government. Amotekun is not the main focus of this piece. Come to think of it what has any one geopolitical zone to lose by allowing each region to manage its affairs they way they feel best within the constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria? For quite some years now the Nigeria nation has witnessed a wave of unprecedented call for restructuring of the polity. This development is traceable to the feelings of being marginalised by the various nationalities that make up Nigeria. Many feel they are not getting their fair share of the nation’s resources while some are getting more than they deserve. This threatening social upheaval is rooted in economic deprivation of the masses. While some group of politicians, whether Hausa-Fulani, Yoruba or Igbo have individually or collectively shortchanged Nigerians, the poor Hausa-Fulani, the poor Yoruba or Igbo suffers the same hunger, deprivation, insecurity threat and economic marginalisation as any other. The unfortunate thing however, is that the poor and needy Nigerians have not been able to come together to find a lasting solution to their common problem.

Two things are needful for Nigeria as a nation. The very first thing is for the government at all levels to become creative and productive to steer the economy and usher in lasting prosperity. If Nigerians are gainfully employed, feel secured, can find good schools for their children, functional hospitals not consulting clinics, regular power supply and an enabling business environment, they will not bother from which tribe the president or governor comes from. It is the inadequacy of opportunity in the country that has created the milieu that has given rise to agitation as those in power are seen to be appropriating what belongs to the nation to themselves and their region of origin. Nigeria social political situation is comparable to the multi cultural circumstances in America. They have a diverse group. They are able to cope with social pressure because there is opportunity for all. The average American does not bother if a family produces the president or senator or Governor for several years. The system works because they are gainfully employed. Nigeria leaders must work at improving the economy and ensuring that the welfare of all Nigerians improve on continuous basis.

The second thing is that Nigeria must come out of the so called state of origin stigma. Nigeria is a country inhabited by Nigerians. It does not give any body a sense of belonging after leaving in any part of Nigeria for several years and still be called a settler or non indigene. These so called non indigenes pay taxes, levy and other dues more than the so called indigenes, yet they are strangers who can not own land in their place of settlement. The Federal Government should as a matter of urgency delete the use of state of origin from the statute books and replace it with place of birth or settlement. This will give every Nigerian a sense of belonging to pursue his or her legitimate economic dream anywhere in Nigeria. Nigerians by the current agitation have come to agree that the greatest challenge facing the development of this great nation is not necessarily corruption, but lack of national identity and sense of belonging in the country. Nigerians owe their loyalty to either the north or south or tribe. Politicians who want to get undue advantage not necessarily for the north or south, usually fan the embers of North/South dichotomy.

In the late 70s, when General Murtala Muhammed came on the Nigerian political scene, he had a vision of what he thought Nigeria should be that it was not. As a military general, who participated in keeping Nigeria one, he was consumed with the passion for a united Nigeria. A Nigeria that is free from the encumbrance of North-South dichotomy. He wanted to see a Nigeria where there was justice and fair play to all, no matter where they came from. That was what led to his renaming states he created and those created before him according to landmarks instead of the North, South, West and East naming of states in the country. The ideals of Murtala was catching on, in that most Nigerians were beginning to see themselves as belonging to Nigeria and not region before the men with flowing agbada returned to the scene to reintroduce the North-South equation and ethnic arithmetic into the body politics of Nigeria. It was at the Constituent Assembly that these old politicians, whose interest is their pockets and stomach, smuggled into the national dialogue, geo-political zones. It was in a bid to continue the old political economy and ethnic arithmetic that has dragged the nation backward for years. The PDP then latched on it by its constitution insisting in power rotation and sharing according to the defined six geo-political zones. These zones were artificially created along political leanings and not comparative economic advantage in any sense. 

The idea of political zoning, which ought to have been a party affair within the PDP, was turned into a national issue depriving the nation of the best hand to serve the fatherland, Nigeria, at the highest political level. As Nigerians continue the debate on the merits and otherwise of restructuring the nation, it must agree to dispense with issues of zoning, state of origin, federal character, and catchment area admission policy in federal schools that have dragged the nation back. State of origin in Nigeria’s body politics is the evil machination of Nigerian politicians that has hindered even economic development. A Nigerian is a Nigerian. Restructuring must free Nigerians from this baggage. A Nigerian can be born anywhere but must be free to live, work and own properties anywhere in the country he chooses to live in without let and hindrance. The constitution that will come out from the restructuring exercise must make it a criminal offence for any official of federal, state or local government or private sector employer to ask any Nigerian of his or her state of origin.

Nigerian politicians should be ashamed of themselves to have allowed this for so long. Countries like America, Australia and Canada are asking millions of citizens of other countries to migrate to their countries yearly and such migrants are given equal opportunity. This is because of the economic advantage a growing population confers on a country. China today is an economic powerhouse because of its market size and a huge productive population that offers cheap and affordable labour to international businesses on the one hand and a huge market from the middle class. In China, it is not just that there is corruption, it is of high magnitude, yet the country is moving forward economic wise. Here at home, we have human resources we are wasting on the basis of state of origin. Many Nigerians who ordinarily would have been gainfully employed have no access to such job opportunities because of their state of origin. It is an act of political intolerance to see a fellow Nigerian as a foreigner in his homeland. It is this political intolerance that would make a state governor to deport a Nigerian from his state to his home state. It is only in Nigeria that there is deportation within a nation’s sovereign borders.  

A Nigerian from Sokoto must be able to live in Rivers, work in Rivers and become a governor there if the people so desire.  Same for an Edo, Ijaw, Yoruba or Ibo men living anywhere in the northern part of the country. It is by so doing that Nigerians can ever give their best for the nation. This is what will encourage mobility of labour and douse the current tension in the land. Nigerians will not be interested where the president or governor comes from if the economy is growing and absorbing able-bodied men and women as they come out from schools. Nigerians will be gladdened to see any president where ever he comes from who will guarantee them 24 hours of power supply, access roads, security of life and property, freedom of movement of goods and services and food on their table. The restructuring effort being canvassed must be ready to confront the issue of federal character that has enthroned mediocrity in public service. A Nigerian from anywhere in the country must aim at being the best. It is unfortunate that today, the question of federal character has been stretched to a ridiculous limit.  Nigerians must deal with it if it intends to develop knowledge economy. It must also deal decisively with the question of catchment area in university admissions in federal institutions that have made it near impossible for national integration. Restructuring for the sake of political convenience of the ruling class will amount to nothing if these key issues are not addressed.

Nigeria it will be recalled after Independence was on the right path of economic growth and development. It had visionary leaders who were interested in the welfare of the people. Industries were springing up in every region of the country. In the North, Ahmedu Bello who held sway was pre-occupied by setting up farm settlements, textile industries. It was the same story in the East where Michael Opera set up farm settlements and a number of manufacturing companies. In the West, Chief Awolowo, apart from the popular free education, set up a number of industrial estates which attracted several companies from abroad. It is this simple reason that the West is the most educated and industrialised part of the country. 

At this time, the Nigeria economy was in top shape and at take off stage in economic development mantra. The Nigerian economy was rated along the same indices with Brazil, Indonesia, Malaysia and the rest of the now talked about BRICKS countries. Then Nigeria had development plans that guided the nation. In the North pyramids of groundnuts and cotton were part of foreign exchange earning commodities. In the West, cocoa was found in abundance. in the South South and South East palm oil and kernel were export commodities. These brought pride to the Nigerian nation. The various regions were autonomous entities and there was competition among the regions on internally generated revenue. The military intervention and the discovery of crude oil in commercial quantity radically altered the course of Nigeria’s economic development. While the military discarded the fiscal federalism structure of the country and made the states to become federal allocation collector, the discovery of oil made Nigerian leaders to sleep walk and refuse to plan believing that the money flowing from the ground will solve all the nation’s problems.  As Nigerian leaders were sleep walking and basking in the euphoria of petro-dollar earnings, Nigeria’s population was growing faster than the resources. Peter Drucker, the management expert, in his book the practice of management wrote “Innovation is the specific instrument of entrepreneurship, the act that endows resources with a new capacity to create wealth. Nigeria leaders failed to yield his management counsel, and today here we are with agitation for separation.

By Omoh Gabriel

Nigeria is a country that is very difficult to understand its political and economic actors. They seem to be in a cyclical rhythm feeding on each other. Some call them cabals while others see them as necessary evils. It is a country where leaders take liberty at deceiving the populace. They will never come out with the truth. Nigerian businessmen and civil servants have also taken a cue from the political class and double speak on issues that affect the generality of the masses. As I seat in front of my laptop to write this piece, I recall vividly that when I pose some critical questions to principal officers of Dangote refinery in Egypt and some government functionaries during the Intra-Africa Trade Fair, there was no answer forth coming. One top level executive of Dangote group who should know told me these are questions we should not be asking now? They could truncate the project. For sure, Nigeria has had several energy crisis and who ever intends to provide a lasting solution is welcomed, but it must be with the right attitude and approach. When Alhaji Aliko Dangote a shroud business man by all standard made a futile bid to buy off the ailing Nigeria refineries during Obasanjo presidency, he was stopped by those who feared his daring business foray. Perhaps, if he had succeeded then things would have improved and Nigeria would have been better for it.

Dangote venture into petroleum product refining has received commendations from the federal government, organised private sector and the Central Bank of Nigeria. The site of the refinery has become a Mecca of sort for Nigerian politicians. Last month the governors’ forum took their turn. From all indication, the Dangote group and the government are engage in hide and seek game. They are shying away from the inevitable, the mode of operation of the refinery. The government and Dangote Group have not told Nigerians the modality and operational strategy of the refinery. All Nigerians are hearing is that the refinery will be saving Nigeria from importing refined products. The CBN has come out to state categorically that the refinery will help conserve the nation’s foreign reserve by saving foreign exchange that would have been used to import fuel.

Both Dangote and the federal government have not told us how this will be made possible. In my elementary economic understanding, the refinery is sited in an export processing zone. Products from such facilities enjoy export status into the country where they are sited. 

Is the Nigeria state going to buy from Dangote in Naira or in dollar? The entire project is at the moment to the best of my understanding of the Nigerian economy shrouded in secrecy that will do no one any good. It is beret with institutional impediments that needs to be removed before it becomes operational. The major issue here is how is Dangote refinery going to source its feed stock? From the international oil market or is it going to get crude from Nigeria at international market price or at reduced price? In what currency is this going to be transacted? Going by the current price regime of petrol in Nigeria market, is the government going to buy off the entire product need of the nation? Is the government going to allow Dangote a free hand to sell and market its product but at whose price, Dangote or federal government’s? What about the labour union that have resisted previous attempts at deregulation of the pump head price of fuel.  If Dangote is to sell at his price, government must immediately deregulate the oil sector. In which case it must privatise the depots across the country and the pipelines to enable other investors come into the sector and government must immediately engage and educate all relevant stakeholders on the need for government to take the back seat in the oil and gas sector. 

By privatising the depot, it will allow for a new approach to product distribution in the country. Investors who buy into pipeline will put them into proper use and will enable products to be moved through pipelines. The use of trunks and the continued siting of petroleum depots in residential areas with their attendant hazards would be a thing of the past. But if government is to buy up the product through NNPC and distribute as usual, there is nothing new the refinery is bringing to the table. Equally yet to be explained is the strategy to be adopted by the NNPC when the refinery is operational. At the moment the NNPC gives crude to refineries outside the country to refine for it, is it going to adopt the same strategy? What about the price at the pump head, is it going to remain the same, who will bear the cost of subsidy, the NNPC or the federal government? The Dangote group we all know will prefer to be allowed to determine its own price and sell in the open market. Already there is palpable fear in the down stream sector especially among depot owners that Dangote refinery will run them out of business. This is the prayers of most Nigerians as the cabals that own these depots are bent on making Nigeria a perpetual import dependent country. Dangote refinery coming on streams poses a lot of unanswered questions that both the government and the promoters of the refinery must answer now before the unintended begins to happen. Already news reports have it that Dangote has placed order for hundreds of trunks that will deliver its refined products to filling stations across the country. The conglomerate is opening filling stations outlets. This to any rational person is a signal to what is running in the mind of the business guru. These uncertainty to say the least are worrisome.

The minister of state for Petroleum is telling Nigerians that government would crash the price of petrol by providing Compressed Natural Gas as an alternative source of fuel for vehicles nationwide not through any arrangement with Dangote refinery. This is confusing, is the minister saying the government has lost faith in the much orchestrated Dangote refinery? Thinking of reducing subsidy this way is pointer to the fact that this government is not ready to change its petroleum product marketing strategy. The CNG if we must know is a fuel that can be used in the place of Premium Motor Spirit, popularly known as petrol. It can also be used in the place of diesel and Liquefied Petroleum Gas. Speaking on what the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources would work on this year during a press conference in Abuja, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, stated that the Federal Government was working for the passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill before May. 

Sylva further declared that the Nigerian oil and gas sector was retrogressing, particularly when compared to oil sector of other nations. He stated that the use of petrol had caused serious drain on the finances of the Federal Government as a result of the continued subsidy on the commodity. Explaining how the government intends to crash petrol price, Sylva said, “When you say we are thinking about reducing the pump price of petrol, I could easily say yes. Why I could say yes is because we are looking at giving the masses an alternative. “Today, we are using the PMS but what we want to do, going forward, is to see that we are able to move the masses to the CNG. If we take all transport vehicles to the use of the CNG, you would have impacted the poor positively.”

Sylva said findings by government showed that the CNG cost less than the subsidised PMS and that once the CNG was fully deployed, the price of fuel would crash. We are optimistic that both the Petroleum Industry Governance Administration and Host Communities Bill, on the one hand, and the Petroleum Industry Fiscal Bill, on the other hand, will be passed within the first anniversary of the second tenure of this administration.” Looking at the position of government as stated by the minister there is a lot of confusion going on in the minds of policy makers in Nigeria. What a shame.

By Omoh Gabriel

When in December 2018, I and other Nigerian journalist on board Egypt air from Cairo were stranded in Accra Ghana after missing our flight to Lagos, we opted to return to Lagos by road. The trans-Africa highway from  Ghana to Seme was smooth sailing until we arrived the Benin border post. We were subjected to all manner of treatment from paying for our passage to having our passport stamped. Some of our members on the team were angry and confronted the officials demanding why ECOWAS citizens should be subjected to ill treatment. The officials did not make any fuse of it, they all told us to our faces to carry our ECOWAS to Lagos. One in particular told us that there is nothing like ECOWAS. When some few of these countries decided on their own to adopt the Eco as their currency, I was not in any way surprised. The fresh speaking West African countries do not believe in ECOWAS and could not have championed Eco for the purpose of realising ECOWAS dream of a single currency. What I see is a political gamble by these countries that may lead to nowhere.

It is surprising that some Nigerians are asking the government to follow suit and adopt the Eco as proposed by these few members as the official single currency for the region. Monetary Union is the last stage of a regional economic integration. There is an institutions or organ of government set up to coordinate the implementation of a single currency in the region. As far as I know, the idea of a single currency for ECOWAS was mooted in year 2000. Ever since then the West African Monetary Institute has set down criteria to be meet by member countries before a single currency can come into effect. The Institute had set ten convergence criteria that must be met. For the avoidance of doubt and for those that have not followed the Eco story thus far, these criteria are divided into four primary and six secondary criteria. In the run up of things in the region as at fiscal year 2011, only Ghana has been able to meet all the primary criteria in any single fiscal year.

The four primary criteria to be achieved by each member country are; a single-digit inflation rate at the end of each year; a fiscal deficit of no more than 4 per cent of the GDP; a central bank deficit-financing of no more than 10 per cent of the previous year’s tax revenues; gross external reserves that can give import cover for a minimum of three months. 

Similarly, the six secondary criteria to be achieved by each member country are; prohibition of new domestic default payments and liquidation of existing ones; tax revenue that should be equal to or greater than 20 per cent of the GDP; wage bill to tax revenue equal to or less than 35 percent; public investment to tax revenue equal to or greater than 20 per cent; a stable real exchange rate; a positive real interest rate. The question to ask is which of these countries as of today has met these criteria. Of course non. Nigeria is even very far from meeting the primary not even the secondary criteria. Nigeria at the moment has inflation rate above the single digit, it runs a deficit financing and its tax to revenue not even to GDP is one of the lowest in the world.  

A closer look at the Eco as adopted by French speaking West African members of ECOWAS suggests an anti France movement that ended in the adoption, since it was not a decision of the ECOWAS Monetary Union. From media reports in Burkina Faso, Kйmi Sйba, a controversial Franco-Bйninois activist, has been spearheading a movement against the regional currency, the CFA. While many welcomed last months news that the West Africa’s CFA monetary union has agreed with France to rename its CFA franc as the Eco and cut some of the financial links with Paris, the fact it was French president Emmanuel Macron, along with president of Cфte d’Ivoire Alassane Ouattara, who announced the end of the West African CFA seems to only buttress the point that the decision was a fight  against what they saw as France’s “neo-colonialism. 

The West African CFA is used in eight countries Benin, Burkina Faso, Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, Mali, Niger, Senegal and Togo; while a separate Central African CFA is used in the other six countries; Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea and Gabon. The economies of the latter are more viable and sustainable than those that adopted the Eco to replace CFA. On December 21, Macron and Ouattara announced plans for a new regional currency called the Eco for West African users of the CFA and news reports claim reserves of the new currency will remain in West Africa at the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO). This will be a marked difference from the CFA which operates under the requirement that half of its reserves are kept in the French treasury, which has fuelled suspicion of French economic control. The French speaking West African economies that adopted the Eco have only changed the name of their currency CFA to Eco to suit their ego. They will have to build up strong reserve to support their economies. If they fail to have sufficient external reserves, which the French has been giving them, their economies may collapse. 

The decision is not even a reaction to Nigeria closing its border as many would want us to believe. Their economies are small and have very low productive base. In fact all put together are not up to the economy of Lagos state. Nigeria as the largest economy in Africa will bear the burden of the Eco reserves when the chips are down. As of today the Central Bank of Nigeria is up in arms to keep the Naira exchange rate stable as many of the nationals from some of these countries are mopping up the dollar from the Nigeria foreign exchange market. It will be an economic suicide for Nigeria to rush into the single currency bid if the macro economic environment is not ripe for it.

It must be noted that in June 2019, the major financiers of the 15 ECOWAS countries stressed the importance of strengthening the macroeconomic convergence of the 15 member countries before adopting the single currency. The Nigerian government must follow the time table set for the implementation of the single currency and urge others to follow suit. The regional body responsible for Eco implementation must come out forcefully to tell member countries to respect the timetable for the implementation of the single currency. It must make it clear to all that performance in terms of macroeconomic convergence is a sine qua non for the Eco single currency to become a reality. 

By Omoh Gabriel

In one of William Shakespeare’s epic literature book Julius Caesar, he wrote that when beggars die there are no comets seen; the heavens themselves blaze forth the death of princes.” This has been a time honoured belief. In the traditional Africa setting, home call of stars or high profile persons are heralded by restless night and wild raging storms, strange cries, frightening “owling”, strange visitations and disturbing dreams of the dead rising from their graves, warriors fighting in the clouds, reports of horses neighing and dying men groaning, ghosts shrieking. All these are supposedly signs that the great are about to leave mere mortals. In modern times, these signs no longer appear to men. There was no such warnings in sight in the death of this illustrious son of Okpella. Every man had gone to do his normal business of the day, particularly those who are far from home. 

There was no inkling of any such.  So in the hotel room, at about 7 pm considering whether to order a room service or go done the restaurant for dinner, the phone rang. It was a distant call. A look at it showed it was from Abuja, who could this be. A lady voice came on, yes, what can I do for you I asked, well your cousin is dead. How?  Well that is the story I was asked to relate to you the voice said and dropped. I held my breath not knowing what next to say or do. I confirm the development from family members and was told it is true. The story I am about to tell you is a long story of a man who devoted most of his life to serve his people. 

As far back as 1967, when I know I could do things for myself,  the youth of Imiegiele would run down to Chief Ogene House, in Imioshiomu village to wait for a cousin who was walking in ministry of Agriculture in Akure later in Benin. He would appear immaculately dressed, clean shaved with always a charming smile. He would distribute bread, eggs  and other things he brought from the City. Not too long he returned home to live with us. Then events started unfolding that epitomised his future greatness. The then traditional ruler of Okpella, Oba Obinogbe had died and the traditional stool of the Okpella community was vacant. While an enquiry into the Okpella traditional council was on, the Biafra civil war broke out as the Biafran army over ran the then Midwest. A detachment of Biafran soldiers occupied Okpella land and held sway. One cold night, the Imiegiele community was being harassed by these soldiers. A titled Chief Arcoven Ebigie, the Daudu of Iluokuza had gone out to have a nice time in a local bar. He was elderly. As he was going back home, the Biafran “child soldiers” as we used to call them accosted him, molested him and held him hostage. The matter was reported and this young man who had experienced township life said no that can not be. He entered the army make shift barracks in the primary school to demand explanation for the ill treatment of a titled man. What an effrontery the Biafran soldiers said. They tried to manhandle him, he fought back. One particular violent soldier among them kocked his gun to shoot him but another held him back. It was a fracas and was very frightening.

It was to turn to a bloody fight. My uncle Musa Balogun, My father Gabriel Balogun and others had rushed into their homes to prepare their dean guns for battle if need be. You wonder what a dean gun will do in in the face of AK47 in the hands of trained soldiers in a war period. But one of the women in the village ran into the field to shield him, her name Ms Azala Balogun, others joined to take him out. The soldiers felt they have lost face and started threatening the community. You must bring the young man out with a “he goat” and hot drinks or we shall shoot him wherever we find him. That was in the night. But as God would have it at midnight the Biafran soldiers sighted federal troops approaching from Ehuru in Akokoedo and they ran and escaped. This act of bravery endeared him to both the youths and the elders. 

Not too long afterwards, the Okpella community decided that there was need for a secondary school in the town as many of their children were not getting admissions into secondary schools in the neighbouring towns of Auchi, Igarra, Ibilo, Jattu and Agenebode. It was this same young man who took the lead. Come rain.come shine he and others with like minds mounted road blocks to collect dues from men and women to build a school. 

It was their effort that brought the Anglican Grammar School Okpella now Ikpomaza Grammar School. Today the school has produced eminent men and women in various profession and vocation. When eventually the white paper on the Okpella Chieftaincy enquiry was released, it was agreed that it was the turn of Imiegiele Okpella to elect the traditional ruler. Initially there were three contenders to the throne. He was the youngest and nobody gave him a chance. This was because his father Mr. Omosotomhe Dirisu Azamoh of Utayokhe – Imiegiele, Okpella was alive then. The belief then was that he was too young to rule. But he joined the race. One of the contenders made a tactical mistake that made many shift their loyalty. There was a court case between Imiegiele community and one of the other Okpella communities. The leaders of the other party to the suit promised to support him if he withdraws from the case.  Without consulting the Imiegiele members, the leading contender to the throne withdrew from the matter and left the Imiegiele people in the cold. However, the choice was to be made exclusively by the ruling houses in Imiegiele not the entire Okpella. It was then the responsibility of this very young man to lead the community in the land dispute. Going by his boldness, character, reputation, commitment to community service and love and respect for tradition the elders in Imiegiele had no difficulty in choosing and presenting him as the clan head of Okpella. He became the uniting force and rally point in Okpella community. That is the reason Alhaji Andrew Yesufu Eshioramhe Dirisu was made the traditional ruler of Okpella. He grew up as an adventurous young man both among his mates and his immediate community wherein, he soon displayed profound leadership qualities.

Having successfully gone through the various hurdles of succession, he was consequently accorded official recognition by the Government of the then Mid-Western State under Brigadier General Samuel Osaigbovo Ogbemudia (RTD), as the Traditional Ruler and Prescribed Authority of Okpella. He took the symbolic and unique title of “Okuokpellagbe” which literally means “The symbol of Okpella Unity”. Under the Okuokpellagbe, Okpella is today reputed to be the industrial nerve-centre of Edo State due mainly to its rich mineral endowments. This explains why a large number of companies/factories are engaged in diverse mineral exploitation in the Okpella.

In his bid to ensure Okpella’s total development, he fought from all directions to provide electricity for the people. happily, the town is today connected to the national grid. This has greatly contributed to the industrial growth of Okpella. In the field of Education, as stated earlier this quintessence of a gentleman has done no less than he has attained in other fields. Before his reign, there was one secondary school in Okpella. Happily there are today, five Government secondary schools in addition to about 13 Primary Schools and many private schools at different levels.

He served as the Vice-President General of Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (N.S.C.I.A) 1987 – 1995. His contributions and inputs greatly helped in making the Council what it is today. He holds several other positions as a Muslim Traditional Ruler. As part of his general desire to uplift Okpella community economically, H.R.M, Alhaji (Dr.) A.Y.E Dirisu (JP) OON is credited with the establishment of Okpella Community Bank Limited, now Agbelor Microfinance Bank and currently serves as the Chairman, Board of Directors. Other appointments held by H.R.M are statutory Chairman of Hospital Management Board University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria. He was appointed as member of Africa Traditional Rulers and Eminent Personalities Forum, Chairman MAMSER Implementation Committee in defunct Etsako LGA; Chairman 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Appeal Fund Launching Committee, Etsako Chapter; Chairman, Bendel State Development Appeal Fund Launching Committee, Etsako Chapter; Member National universities Commission, Member Steering Committee of the movement for the creation of Edo State (1981 – 83); like Chairman Edo State Council of Traditional Council (1995/96); Chairman Etsako East Local Government Traditional Council 1995/96, 2000/21; Member National Rulers and Eminent Persons Forum of Nigeria and many others. 

It is in recognition of his commitment to the upliftment of humanity that he has been conferred with the patronship of several social clubs and philanthropic Organisations, notably are Patrons, Etsako Club’ 81, Lagos, Etsako Professional Women’s Association, Edo/Delta State; Etsako Club, Sapele; Esan Unity Club of Nigeria, Etsako Student Union of University of Benin and Obafemi Awolowo University; Okpella  Oghele Women Association, Benin City; Elegance Circle of Nigeria, Auchi; Okpella Student Union. In recognition of his invaluable good work and contributions which His Royal Majesty had made to the development of Nigeria and the World in general, the City University of Los Angeles awarded him a honorary Doctorate Degree in 1989. Back home, he was conferred with the prestigious award of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) by the President Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Alh. Umaru Musa Yaradua, GCFR. He was awarded a Justice of Peace (JP) in 1986 in apparent recognition of his love for peace both within his domain and its neighbours. He has made personal sacrifices to engender peace. His interests include among others: Exchange of Royal visits, writing, reading, current national and international affairs and sports. He is a widely traveled traditional father (Locally and overseas). His Royal Majesty is happily married and blessed with several children.

He was humble, caring and he gave succour to those who were hurting. He gave his shoulder to those who were grieved to cry upon, he lend a helping hand to the helpless and gave hope to the hopeless. Even his distractors who took his benevolence and magnanimity for granted will say of him this was a great man. He was certainly not an angel but was also not ordinary. The last time I was with him was when I went home for the burial of my mother inlaw. He was there for us and played the fatherly role. At his Palace with him on that day was Barrister J K Kadiri. He was joking with him and said “when I come to Abuja, I will give you a call so that we can connect and do some of those things we used to do”. I looked his way, he looked at me as if to say this is a free world, you can make your choice. Today he is gone and unfortunately, I am far away and was not there to say the last good bye. Goodnight our king, rest in peace until we meet to part no more.