CSO, Tinubu's Support Group Score Nigerian Navy High On War Against Oil Theft*

... Laud CNS Ogalla's Giant Strides

By Dansu Peter 

A coalition of civil society organizations, led by the Renewed Hope Ambassadors of Nigeria (RHAN) and the Centre for Action Against Corruption (CAAC), has unequivocally condemned allegations made by Government Ekpemupolo, also known as Tompolo, that the Nigerian Navy is complicit in oil theft in the Niger Delta. 

The group described Tompolo's allegations as unsubstantiated, baseless, frivolous and lacking in merit.

At a press conference on Thursday in Abuja, the group highlighted Tompolo's negative antecedents, including his history as a wanted fugitive and member of a militant coalition that terrorized and kidnapped oil workers, were highlighted. The coalition emphasized that Tompolo lacks moral justification to denigrate the Nigerian Navy.

The group praised Rear Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), for his achievements in the fight against oil bunkering and theft. 

Under his leadership, Abdullahi Bilal and Olayemi Isaacs said the Nigerian Navy has achieved significant milestones, including destruction of illegal refining sites, arrest of sea pirates, reduction in maritime crimes, and over 21,630 hours of patrol resulting in numerous arrests and seizures.

The coalition emphasised that CNS Ogalla's leadership has justified his appointment by President Tinubu and the Renewed Hope mandate. 

They urged the CNS to remain focused and resilient in his fight against oil theft, noting that success is imminent.

The group called on lovers of peace to join them in condemning Tompolo's allegations, warning that unchecked misinformation could lead to chaos and increased criminality.

The statement added: “t is our collective responsibilities to fight against those forces and interest which tries to undermine our very collective existence and interest, and ensure we annihilate them. This is why we are here today. 

“This, to us is an apt opportunity to take the bull by the horns and conscientize the public on the evil intentions of Tompolo and the sensitive nature of his allegation, as it tries to undermine the Nigerian navy and also reduce the morale of the fighting gallant men in the field. 

“We must also warn of the chaos, destruction and up surge in criminalities if such misinformation and mischief continuous unchecked and unmitigated.

Our interest is basically the national interest. 

“We believe that lifting up this curtain of secrecy and mischief will move the nation forward, encourage the Armed Forces and indeed the security forces all over the nation, as the sacrifice to secure us.

“We therefore call on all lovers of peace and workers with God to join us to condemn this orchestrated onslaught against those men who have decided to haphazard their lives so that we can live in peace and quiet.

“We call on the CNS to remain focused, unfazed and resilient in his dogged fight as success is just around the corner, and to discountenance the allegation as those that are with you are more than those against you. “

$2.2 Billion Loan: CSOs back FG's request for funds as a necessity for development

…laud Tinubu’s administration for judicious application of  resources.

By Dansu Peter 

The Centre for Social Justice, Equity, and Transparency (CESJET) has backed Federal Government’s request to borrow $2.2 billion to capital projects.

The Convener of the Group, Emeka Theodore while addressing journalists on Thursday in Abuja, said the funds are essential to the advancement of revenue-generating plans and institutional improvements. 

He said rejecting this proposal is not a sincere concern for the national interest; rather, it is populist posturing that goes against logic and same reasoning.

“We are gathered here today, to discuss a matter of vital importance to the development and prosperity of our country: the Federal Government’s planned loan request of $2.2 billion. This initiative has seen a lot of pushback in recent weeks, most of it being misguided and uninformed.

“Evidently, it is important to understand that the oppositions to the borrowing plan is obviously unwarranted and counterproductive to Nigeria’s development. In Setting the record straight, it requires us to address the baseless complaints made of this loan while emphasizing its benefits and justification it would do to our great country”, he said.

Theodore noted that Nigeria is one of the few countries that have continuously fulfilled its financial commitments to foreign creditors. 

“Through a strategic and structural plan in executing loan servicing, the President Tinubu led-administration has maintained repayment schedules and built confidence with foreign lenders. 

“For example, income generating reforms have been used to carefully control the 2023 debt service-to-revenue ratio, despite the fact that it is still worrisome.

“It is noteworthy stating that fulfilling these responsibilities has not only maintained Nigeria's reputation, but it has also increased foreign financial institutions' trust in our capacity to carefully manage borrowed money. Nigeria continues to benefit from favorable rates on development funding and concessional loans because of this confidence”, he stated.

He reminded critics of the loan that the money collected in the past have been used for important development initiatives, infrastructure growth, and institutional changes. 

CESJET further noted that the judicious use of borrowed monies to promote economic growth and address infrastructure deficiencies is demonstrated in projects like the Second Niger Bridge, the Lagos-Ibadan railway, and the ongoing Mambilla Hydropower Project.

“ This proposed $2.2 billion loan is no unusual; its goal is to fund vital industries that would help Nigerians in the long run”, the group said.

“In dispelling the myth on the borrowing-to-federal budget ratio, we wish to state categorically that, Nigeria’s borrowing plans are clearly in line with international best practices and do not impose an excessive cost. 

“For example, a fiscal deficit of about ₦8 trillion is expected in the 2025 budget, which is estimated to be around ₦34 trillion. A manageable portion of current budget, the $2.2 billion loan fits the government’s fiscal policy to strike a balance between development requirements and long-term financial viability.

“Comparatively, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) recommends that developing economies have a debt-to-GDP ratio of not more than 55%. Nigeria’s debt ratio of about 35% puts the country in a better situation than that of other African peers, such as Ghana and Kenya, whose debt ratios are more than 60%. Nigeria has the financial capacity to borrow responsibly, as these numbers demonstrate.

“However, some critics have attempted to sabotage this important project. It is depressing to observe that their ideas frequently lack basic economic reasoning and instead rely on populist hyperbole. To propagate false information, some organizations have been enlisted to paint Nigeria's borrowing as irresponsible and unsustainable. 

“These organizations lack a thorough grasp of the economic forces at work and are frequently supported by anti-progress elements. 9. Opposing politicians should give up their populist stance and accept the realities of government for the benefit of the country. 

“It will be in the good interest of the Nation for opposing lawmakers  to abandon their populist approach and embrace the realities of governance. Clearly, their opposition runs the risk of sabotaging Nigeria's growth, delaying the country's advancement and leaving important projects underfunded.

“It is crucial to emphasize that denying the loan request will have disastrous effects on ongoing programs and projects. If the necessary funding is not obtained, infrastructure development, healthcare expansion, and educational changes might all be shelved. In addition to being a waste of money, abandoned projects often represent missed chances for economic diversification, job growth, and higher living standards.

“For example, lowering transportation costs and boosting regional trade depend on the completion of ongoing rail projects. The provision of sufficient money is critical to the viability of these projects. Therefore, the $2.2 billion loan is essential to securing Nigeria's future and advancing its economic program, and not to be seen as a luxury, which a misguided thought and speculations occupying the mind of many.

“Cases just like the Investments in digital technologies and infrastructure, would increase the effectiveness of tax collection, diversifying Nigeria’s revenue streams and lowering its need on oil earnings. Likewise, financing agricultural changes will increase output, guaranteeing food security and boosting exports. The government intends to use a portion of the loan for mechanized farming and irrigation projects, which will greatly increase agricultural productivity, provide employment, and promote rural development. 

“This said loan is an additional source to strengthen diverse empowerment, and further upgrade many of our sectors in maintaining their global reputation amongst other nations. It is clear that the loan is more than just a financial tool; it is a driving force behind revolutionary change in several important economic sectors.

“Additionally, President Tinubu led-administration continuous initiatives to increase non-oil earnings and diversify the economy would strengthen Nigeria's ability to service its debt in no time unlike when the country was solely dependent on revenues from oil for its mega operations. These actions demonstrate the government's dedication to fiscal restraint and judicious borrowing.

“Evidently, public support is crucial for the successful implementation of development projects. By highlighting the benefits of the proposed loan and addressing concerns transparently, we can build consensus and ensure the smooth passage of the loan request by the National Assembly (NASS).  

“In conclusion, the $2.2 billion loan proposal is clearly a necessity for Nigeria’s progress. Rejecting this proposal would be self-defeating, compromising current initiatives and endangering the future of the country. In light of this, we urge National Assembly members to put the interests of the country above populist digressions. A better future for all Nigerians is at stake when the loan is approved; it is not just an economic choice, but a mission to save generations”, the group added.

False Allegations Against Nyesom Wike Aimed At Stalling Massive Progress , Says Coalition

By Dansu Peter 

The Coalition for Truth and Justice in Nigeria (CTJN) has said recent false allegations against Barrister Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is aimed at stalling the various massive projects  going on in the FCT.

The group lauded him for his remarkable achievements in transforming the nation's capital. 

The CTJN said that false accusations against the Minister are aimed to derail the progress and frustrate his efforts.

The group, after an extensive appraisal of Wike's achievements, said the Minister has proven critics wrong, demonstrating exceptional leadership and vision.

Speaking at a pres conference in Abuja, convener Dr. Agabi Emmanuel said under Wike, infrastructure development has been prioritized, addressing population pressure, urban sprawl, and neglected areas. 

Agabi noted that the FCT is being transformed into a useful and aesthetically pleasing capital, with proactive measures addressing housing, transportation, healthcare, and governance infrastructure.

He said Wike's administration has addressed land grabbing, reclaiming illegally occupied lands for mass housing projects. 

The group also said that judges now have befitting accommodations, and rural healthcare has seen significant investments while teacher welfare packages have been improved, and the FCT Civil Service Commission has been established to decentralize governance.

The Coalition recommends continued support from stakeholders, religious and traditional leaders promoting peaceful coexistence, and security agencies maintaining vigilance. Wike's leadership represents a paradigm shift in governance and infrastructure development, creating a legacy worthy of duplication.

Given the right support, the group said Nigerians and FCT residents can expect improved living standards. 

The Coalition commends Wike's initiatives and encourages other states to replicate them. His achievements demonstrate commitment to equitable development, improved quality of life, and sustainable growth.

“Our findings revealed that the FCT administration under Barrister Neysom Wike indeed prioritized the provision of necessary infrastructures across the various area councils in the federal capital territory.  In the past, the FCT has had problems because of population pressure, urban sprawl, and the disregard for important areas,” the statement said. 

“Right now, FCT is being transformed into a useful and aesthetically pleasing capital thanks to the proactive measures made by Barrister Wike’s leadership to address these problems. In order to identify priority regions across the many area councils, the administration has used a rigorous approach. 

“Undoubtedly, a functional road network is a critical factor to urban development, economic activities, and the general well-being of residents. Recognizing this, it was also observed that the FCT Administration under Barrister Nyesom Wike has undertaken a major renovation of the road network within the Federal Capital City Centre. 

“This is evident in the news look of the city centre and other adjourning areas in the federal capital territory. The FCT administration has also commissioned new roads in areas that were neglected by successive administrations in the country. These efforts are not merely about repairing roads but transforming them to meet modern urban standards.

“The FCT administration, led by Barrister Wike, has made large investments in security, which is a fundamental component of any flourishing community. The FCT Administration under the leadership of Barrister Nyesom Wike has also addressed the notorious issue of land grabbing in the FCT. 

“The honourable minister went a step further by reclaiming these lands which obviously are not backed with any legal  or verifiable documents, and reallocating them for mass housing developmental projects. This is indeed commendable and a step in the right direction in addressing the housing deficit in the FCT while ensuring that land resources are utilized for the public good.

“The FCT administration under Barrister Nyesom Wike recently initiated steps towards providing befitting accommodation for judges. This in our opinion is brilliant and a welcome development in line with standard practices in other climes. It is believed that the members of the law deserve dignified living conditions. 

“Supporting the judiciary is a step toward strengthening governance and promoting sustainable development. The Coalition for Truth and Justice in Nigeria recommends this brilliant initiative to other states in the country in our quest for sustainable growth and development.

“It is indeed a statement of the fact that the FCT administration has made substantial investments in improving access to healthcare for rural dwellers within the FCT. This much was recognized by the Coalition for Truth and Justice in the construction of new healthcare centres and the equipping of existing healthcare centres across the FCT. The value of lives and properties have been at the top priority of the working Minister.

“The FCT Administration under the leadership of Barrister Nyesom Wike has substantial improvements in the remuneration and welfare packages for school teachers in the FCT. This, in our opinion, is the manifestation of a premium placed on improving workers' welfare in the FCT towards achieving a productive workforce to aid in the development of the FCT. 

“The FCT Administration in an attempt to decentralize governance in the FCT, established the FCT Civil Service Commission with the appointment of nine permanent secretaries to oversee critical sectors of the FCT. 

“The Coalition for Truth and Justice in Nigeria wishes to state in unequivocal terms that the FCT Administration under the leadership of Barrister Nyesom Wike has indeed fared brilliantly in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration. 

“Barrister Nyesom Wike’s leadership of the FCT administration represents a paradigm shift in governance and infrastructure development which is unmatchable by no one so far. He has created a legacy of transformation that’s worthy of duplicity by any leader that wishes to make a difference. We commend his initiatives and encourages other states to replicate it”.