Group Raises Alarm Over Alleged N3 Trillion Fuel Importation Fraud by NNPCL, Business Partners

... calls on CBN to investigate payment claims

The Coalition for Economic Liberation and Transformation (CELT) has raised alarm over alleged N3 Trillion fuel importation fraud traced to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited's (NNPCL) and some of its business partners in the last  42 days. 

This revelation came to light during a press conference held in Abuja on November 15, 2024.

According to CELT, Nigeria imported 1.5 million metric tonnes of premium motor spirit, 414,018 metric tonnes of diesel, and 13,500 metric tonnes of aviation fuel between October 1 and November 11. 

Henry Owolabi, the Executive Director of the coalition criticized NNPCL's Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kolo Kyari, for prioritizing fuel importation over domestic refining, despite the availability of local refineries.

The Dangote Refinery, with a capacity to process 650,000 barrels of oil daily, is one such refinery that could significantly reduce Nigeria's reliance on foreign fuel. 

CELT questioned Kyari's decision-making process, citing the detrimental impact on Nigeria's economy and currency.

The coalition accused Kyari of sabotaging domestic refineries and undermining the Central Bank of Nigeria's policies aimed at strengthening the naira. 

CELT demanded Kyari's immediate sack and urged the Central Bank to halt further payments for fuel importation.

Furthermore, CELT called on regulatory agencies to verify the quality of imported fuel and investigate financial claims. 

The coalition emphasized the need to prioritize domestic refining, highlighting benefits such as significant cost savings, energy security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability.

Owolabi added: “Kyari and his fake fuel-importing associates have successfully rubbished the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)'s policies targeted at strengthening the Naira. They mopped up the limited dollars that would have gone into procuring manufacturing-related imports. 

“The irresponsible importation, which is compromising the naira, borders on criminal when one recalls that President Bola Tinubu, personally, intervened to broker the naira sale of crude oil to Indigenous refineries to reduce the pressure on Nigeria’s currency and make refined products more affordable. Kyari and his lackeys insult our president by persisting in this criminal trade.

“Kyari's leadership role in the fuel importation racket perhaps explains why he has deliberately sabotaged the nation's investments in the three major government-owned refineries in the last two years. Why would a man who has not allowed our refineries to work be allowed to continue to lead the NNPCL?

“Additionally, this importation has severe economic consequences. The money used for importing fuel could be effectively utilised in areas, like healthcare, education and infrastructure.

“The government and other appropriate bodies must promptly tackle these concerns. They must emphasise the importance of boosting manufacturing and supporting our refineries to function at their potential.

“Consequently, the Coalition for Economic Liberation and Transformation urges the CBN to stop further payments to Kyari's cronies in the name of fuel importation. Those who persist in importing what is readily available locally should bear the brunt of sourcing the foreign exchange to pay for their indulgence.

“Furthermore, our Coalition demands that Kyari be sacked without hesitation to restore the industry’s transparency and accountability and to prevent the NNPCL CEO and his associate from spreading contagion to other sectors of the economy.

“Finally, we demand that the necessary regulatory and anti-graft agencies step in to arrest the anomaly around fuel importation.“

Suswam At 60: You Are The First Politician That Gave Me Financial Support

...I Wish You A Blissful Birthday And Many Years Ahead 

By Terfa Naswem

Your Excellency, Sen. Dr. Gabriel Torwua Suswam,

I wish you a blissful birthday anniversary as you clock 60 years on planet earth. May God Almighty in His infinite grace and mercy, continue to guide and protect you in all your daily activities and grant you long life and prosperity.

My predilection for you began since you were a member of the House of Representatives for Katsina-Ala/Ukum/Logo Federal Constituency in Benue State.

When you were elected in 1999 to represent your constituency in the National Assembly, you made commendable and memorable impact on your constituents. One of the things you did was the scholarship you gave to students of higher institutions from your constituency. Some of my friends significantly benefited from it.

In 2006 when you were given the ticket to contest for governor of Benue State, I supported, campaigned and voted for you in the 2007 gubernatorial election. That was when I began active political participation. In your first term in office, you made commendable impact on Benue State. You rehabilitated and reconstructed the roads and streets in Makurdi and other parts of Benue State.

In September 2008 when you awarded the contract for the installation of solar street lights to Solex, a reputable company in electrical installations for the provision of solar panels along Makurdi major roads and streets, I also participated in the installation of the solar street lights from September to November 2008 and made some money from it which helped me to put so many things in order.

In March 2011 when you went to Jos to obtain your PhD in Law from the prestigious University of Jos, I was one of those who covered the convocation ceremony as a practicing journalist from Department of Television Journalism, NTA Television College, Jos, Plateau State where I obtained my Diploma in Television Journalism.

You gave me Ten Thousand Naira  (N10,000) including ten of my school mates in NTA Television College at the reception venue which took place at Gyado White House after Secretariat Junction in Jos. You became the first politician that I directly benefited from financially. The money, as a student helped me so much to fix some issues I had which enhanced the completion of my programme in 2012. You played a part to my success in journalism.

The Television Journalism Students' Association (TEJOSA) T-shirt of NTA Television College, Jos, Plateau State that I wore in the attached photograph was the exact T-shirt I wore when I covered your convocation in Jos 13 years ago.

When you became the governor of Benue State, you made commendable impact, although you had your shortcomings which affected you from living up to the general expectations of the good people of Benue State.

You touched my life directly and indirectly, that is why I have never cast aspersions on you or written any apocryphal story against you.

When you were at the National Assembly, you did so much for Zone A. I have a comprehensive list of all the projects and empowerment programmes you executed and I commend you for that.

I hold you in high esteem and will continue to do so irrespective of your political party or other affiliations.

Your birthday anniversary should rekindle your desire to continue to elevate the human race through the darkness to another mile!

Happy Birthday Anniversary!!

5 CSOs reject Coastal Guards Bill as Anti-Nigerian Legislation

... Say Proliferation of Armed Forces will escalate security issues in Nigeria

Five civil society organizations in the country have strongly rejected the Nigerian Coast Guard Bill currently before the National Assembly as anti-Nigerian. 

The Coalition in Support of National Security Advancement (CSNSA) at a world press conference held in Abuja said the bill is an attempt to amend the constitution through the backdoor by creating another arm of the Armed Forces.

The groups raised concerns over national security, economic implications and constitutional conflicts. 

In a joint address by Okwa Dan and Bilal Abdulahi, the coalition also highlighted the economic burden of establishing a Coast Guard which would require significant funding, potentially diverting resources from the Nigerian Navy.

Furthermore, the CSNSA emphasized constitutional issues, noteworthy to state that the proposed Coast Guard contradicts Section 217 of the Nigerian Constitution, which recognizes only the Army, Navy, and Air Force as branches of the Armed Forces.

Instead, the CSNSA proposed strengthening the Nigerian Navy and establishing a civilian-controlled maritime agency to handle non-military duties.

While urging the National Assembly to discard the bill, the groups said the legislation was not in the best interest of citizens hence the sponsors must apologise. 

“We call upon President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Assembly leadership to carefully consider the demands of our country's present security, economic realities, and constitutional obligations. Several important issues have been brought to light by our thorough analysis of the Coast Guard Bill as well as observations from regional and global perspectives,” the statement said. 

“However, the Nigerian Navy's function and responsibility overlap is one of the main problems. It is noteworthy to start that, International acclaim has been given to the Nigerian Navy for its successful management of marine security, which includes law enforcement, counter-piracy, and hydrographic services. 

“Moreover, establishing a new Coast Guard can lead to potential jurisdictional conflicts and operational inefficiencies; examples from the US, UK, and South Africa show how different duties might prevent such overlaps. Nigeria's unique resources and structure, however, don't seem well adapted to implementing this distinct strategy exemplified by these countries, considering Nigeria’s present effort in stabilizing the economy.

“The proposed Coast Guard Bill has been observed to bring up issues of command organization and constitutionality. The Nigerian Constitution's Section 217 recognizes only the Army, Navy, and Air Force as branches of the Armed Forces. 

“Thus, creating a second military duty would necessitate constitutional amendments, and could create legal ambiguities. Unity of command is essential during emergencies, and military service under a civilian ministry may make this more difficult.

“Furthermore, we discovered that the costly burden of building a Coast Guard is exacerbated by Nigeria's economic constraints. To put it in perspective, the U.S. Coast Guard spends more than $13 billion a year. It seems like a more effective and long-term option would be to use these funds to bolster the Nigerian Navy.

“Additionally, the Coalition in Support of National Security and Advancement believes that the proposed Coast Guard under the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy would create a complex administrative structure that could lead to inefficiencies. 

“Specific security requirements that might not fit into a single framework are being addressed by each agency, and thus operational inefficiencies may also result from the Coast Guard's administrative complexity when placed under the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy. 

“Under the Ministry of Defense, military services typically need a rigid chain of command. A civilian-led command structure for a military service could result in contradictory orders, compromising Nigeria's ability to respond timely to security threats. Rather than strengthening security, the Coast Guard, as proposed, may exacerbate threats.

“Given these worries, we humbly request that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Assembly consider increasing the support to the Nigerian Navy as a step which would be a practical way to improve maritime security without adding more red tape. 

“Secondly, Nigeria would be able to handle non-military duties more effectively, openly, and responsibly if civilian control for non-military maritime functions were given priority. For a better replacement for establishing a Military Coast Guard, Nigeria might set up a civilian-run organization to manage tasks like environmental protection, customs enforcement, and search and rescue. 

“In addition to avoiding duplication of Navy operations, this strategy would be in line with global best practices. Finally, it is crucial to adhere to constitutional limits by making sure that any reorganization of Nigeria’s maritime security does not conflict with the 1999 Constitution.“

Civil Society Groups Reject Coastal Guard Bill Before National Assembly

... vow to mobilise citizens against Bill at public hearing as an anti-Nigeria agenda

BY Dansu Peter 

The Coalition in Support of National Security Advancement (CSNSA) has rejected the Nigerian Coast Guard Bill, currently before the National Assembly, citing concerns over national security, economic implications, and constitutional conflicts.

The proposed legislation aims to establish a specialized maritime security agency.

The CSNSA which made this known at a press conference argues that creating a new Coast Guard may duplicate existing duties of the Nigerian Navy, jeopardize national security, and reduce administrative effectiveness.

In a joint address, Okwa Dan and Bilal Abdulahi also highlight the economic burden of establishing a Coast Guard, which would require significant funding, potentially diverting resources from the Nigerian Navy.

Furthermore, the CSNSA emphasized constitutional issues, noting that the proposed Coast Guard contradicts Section 217 of the Nigerian Constitution, which recognizes only the Army, Navy, and Air Force as branches of the Armed Forces.

Instead, the CSNSA proposed strengthening the Nigerian Navy and establishing a civilian-controlled maritime agency to handle non-military duties.

They urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Assembly to reconsider the bill, emphasising the importance of constitutional adherence, effective resource allocation, and national security sensitivity.

"It is crucial to adhere to constitutional limits by making sure that any reorganization of Nigeria’s maritime security does not conflict with the 1999 Constitution," the statement said. 

"Although the Army, Navy, and Air Force are the only three branches of the armed forces recognized by the Constitution, the proposed Coast Guard would legally be an additional department under the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, classified as a military service.

"Adding a new branch without a constitutional amendment could lead to serious legal problems and threaten the rule of law. In Section 217 of the Nigerian Constitution, the existing framework gives the armed forces a defined structure and establishes the guidelines for Nigeria’s defense policy.

"In order to avoid any conflicts within the country’s security and military systems, establishing a fourth branch such as a militarized Coast Guard would need a careful legal scrutiny.

"In the event of a national emergency or conflict, concerns about the Coast Guard’s legal authority, responsibility allocation, and chain of command may surface in the absence of constitutional clarity.

"Furthermore, circumventing constitutional processes to create a new branch might erode the security services' legal basis in Nigeria, which could result in disjointed command structures and inefficiencies within the armed forces .

"The Coalition in Support of National Security and Advancement believes that improving marine safety through the reinforcement of Nigeria's current security frameworks is a more viable and long-term solution than establishing a distinct Coast Guard.

"It is imperative that this fervor is tempered with a deep understanding of the nuanced challenges facing the nation at the moment. Our position demonstrates a dedication to constitutional observance, effective resource allocation, and sensitivity to matters of national security.

"Establishing a new, independent Coast Guard may seem appealing on the surface, but the practical implications suggest that a more integrated, resource-efficient, and constitutionally aligned approach would be far more beneficial for Nigeria’s long-term security and economic stability.

"We support the Nigerian Navy and encourage all parties involved to carefully weigh these insights because today's choices will determine the type of destiny we desire for the Nigeria of our future."

Civil Society Demands Presidential Action As Wike Allegedly Orchestrate Secret 500-Hectare Land Grab For Private Estate

A civil society group, Integrity and Transparency Watchdog, has called on the President and Commander-in-Chief President Bola Tinubu to stop the alleged  move  by the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike to allocate a newly created Plot No. 267, encompassing a substantial 500 hectares in Usuma District to a private entity.

The group also called on members of the National Assembly to assert their oversight role and protect citizens from this form of administrative overreach. 

The group in a statement on Monday signed by Dr. Ibrahim Sodangi, claimed that Wike’s  secretive  moves underscores concerns that such maneuvers not only circumvent due process but also reflect a larger disregard for transparency and equity in the management of public lands.

Recall that Wike, recently issued plot allocation papers to Radcom Nigeria Limited in the Lugbe area of Abuja shortly after demolition activities began there.

In October 2024, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) initiated the demolition of duplexes and bungalows in Sabon Lugbe, led by Mukhtar Galadima, Director of the FCTA's Department of Development Control. Initially targeting 10 buildings, the demolition ultimately involved nearly 50 structures.

The move drawn strong criticism from residents and estate developers, who claim the demolitions were conducted without prior notice, displacing hundreds of people. They allege the demolition serves as a form of intimidation and oppression, accusing Wike of reallocating the land to his allies and associates.

Similarly, the civil society group said ‘‘This  particular 500 hectares in Usuma District has already been allocated, with numerous lawful occupants holding valid Rights of Occupancy as authorized by the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA). Many of these occupants have invested significantly in the area, paying rent and contributing to its development.’’ 

The group further warned that ‘’seizing land from these rightful owners to favor a private estate not only breaches established norms but could also establish a dangerous precedent for future land allocations, potentially jeopardizing public trust in the FCT’s land governance system.’’

Sodangi expressed deep apprehension about the minister’s alleged actions, describing ‘‘them as a blatant abuse of authority. 

 "We are witnessing the creation of new plots from previously allocated land, disregarding the rights of current landholders and disrupting lives," Dr. Sodangi stated. 

Sodangi also said,  ‘‘The minister’s decisions are perceived as not only unlawful but fundamentally unfair, with significant implications for those who have staked their livelihoods in Usuma District.’’

The group also claims that ‘‘official documentation for the newly created Plot 267 is already being processed under Wike’s directive, raising fears that this allocation may soon be formalized despite the outcry. 

‘‘Current landholders in the district have been left in limbo, facing potential displacement and the loss of investments they have poured into developing their plots. ‘’

The group argues that these tactics undermine the integrity of land administration, and could deter investors and citizens alike, as trust in land governance systems erodes.

Sodangi reminded Wike that his position is not permanent, as he cautioned against the use of ‘‘public office to make unilateral decisions that could damage public trust for years to come. 

He  called on the President, the National Assembly, and other key stakeholders to ensure that the rule of law prevails and that the rights of citizens are upheld.

Imaan's Stich in Time , Saves Minors

By Abubakar Yusuf 

In line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Renewed Hope Agenda, spirit of democracy, national development and leadership compassion, the issue of detained minors has been resolved through the unconditional release directed by the government.

The Tinubu led administration extended the succour and also ordered a thorough investigation into the circumstances that led to the arrest and detention of the minors no matter how highly placed of the security agencies involved, an indicator that Mr President was not aware of the activities of the overzealous security agencies who carried out the directives against the good intentions of the government.

President Tinubu did not stop there , he also ordered the immediate rehabilitation of the minors involved and subsequently engage all minors in that regard by relevant government agencies.

The positive development has paid off after the visit of the new Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Imaan Suleiman -Ibrahim fsi to confer with the minors and also monitor their conditions against the hue and cry of Nigerians , bodies and individuals.

Imaan's maiden visit to the detention camp of the minors who were arrested and detained as a result of the last protest by Nigerians protest of "EndBadGovernance " organized by protesters out of the consent of the government.

The visit over the weekend first of its kind by a public officer just few days on assumption of duty of the new Minister,  had doused the palpable tension that had enveloped the country against the detention of the minors by the overzealous security agencies.

Spending a quality time and hours with the minors who were now the adopted by the government, the Minister exchange words/ pleasantries, advises and also ate and drink with the detained minors with assurance that the federal government will not hesitate to take the necessary legal action that will ensure their immediate release.

While reassuring Nigerians that the new Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development is determined to protect not only the rights of children ,but their well-being .

She further promised to liase with the appropriate government agencies, the Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Health , Ministry of Humanitarian, Disaster Management and social services to ensure an uninterrupted rehabilitation of the minors who were involved in the detention incidents.

While reassuring Nigerians of the minors getting immediate justice , through to her words , President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ordered their release and full scale investigation on Monday .

Not resting on her Initiatives , actions and oars, concerted efforts have already been put in place to discourage the use of minors for future events that may likely put their lives at risk in all forms.

Aside government proactive decisions and internal arrangements, the new Minster of Women Affairs and Social Development promised to role out concerted programs that will continue to protect minors away from any unforseen circumstances, unfair treatment, exposures to inactions and overzealous tendencies of thr security agencies in thd course of carrying their statutory functions.

Through to her words, few days after her assumption of duty , her promised all round development and new leadership has began to manifest especially the high score of not only securing the release of the detained minors, dousing the local and international outcries and the assurance of their release, rehabilitation and to abhor future reoccurrence.

She also promised to set up not only a machinery , but an enabling environment to ensure minors are not deployed and cajoled to anti government activities, considering their future and possible mortgage as future leaders of the country.

The patriotic and workaholic decision of the new Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development was a reassurance to Nigerians and the international communities that the future of our minors in Nigeria is bright and not prone to been mortgaged in line with the global standards, promising to carry out an extensive reorientation of our minors to make them productive both to the country, themselves and the society at large.

During her maiden visit to the detained minors in Abuja, the Minister's statement was quoted as follows...

"The Ministry of Women Affairs has expressed deep concern over the recent detention of 52 children who were reportedly arrested on August 3, 2024, during the End Bad Governance protest in Kano and Kaduna States."

"The statement signed by the Minister, Hon Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim noted that Public concern about the treatment, safety, and rights of these detained children is duly acknowledged, and the Ministry is taking active steps to address these issues."

"She added that ensuring the rights of every child is paramount, as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Child Rights Act, and international treaties to which Nigeria is a signatory. Every child, regardless of circumstance, is entitled to protection, dignity, and a fair judicial process under the law."

"Demonstrating her commitment to the welfare of these children, the minister made a personal visit to the detention facility late at night, where she engaged directly with the children."

 "In this interaction, she offered comfort, listened to their concerns, and assured them of her commitment to their well-being. The Minister has also held discussions with authorities to ensure the children are receiving appropriate care and that their rights are being safeguarded."

The Statement continues:

 “Communications are underway with relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Justice, the judiciary, and correctional institutions, to ensure that these children’s cases are expedited and heard in juvenile courts as mandated by law."

“Active monitoring of their welfare is ongoing, and the Ministry is collaborating with child rights advocates to ensure no child suffers undue harm, discrimination, or maltreatment.

“Plans are in place to work closely with child protection services to provide post-release psychological counseling, social support, and rehabilitation to facilitate these children’s reintegration into their communities. In partnership with stakeholders, the Ministry is also exploring educational opportunities for the children to support their growth and well-being beyond this challenging experience.

“To further address the public’s concerns, the President has directed the Attorney General of the Federation to review the cases of these minors swiftly. The Ministry is confident that justice will prevail, in alignment with Nigeria’s commitment to the rule of law and the principles of child protection.

“In addition, the Ministry is adopting a Whole-of-Society Approach (WoSA) to address juvenile delinquency. Through collaborative efforts with all relevant stakeholders, the goal is to strengthen existing systems and structures, with a focus on reforming the juvenile justice system.

“Key initiatives will include revising laws to address juvenile delinquency and fostering multi-sectoral engagement to empower communities and authorities to prevent juvenile delinquency across Nigeria."

"The Ministry of Women Affairs assured all concerned citizens that it will continue to advocate for the rights of these children and work tirelessly to secure a just outcome."

“Protecting the rights of all children remains a priority, and every effort will be made to guarantee their safety, welfare, and justice.”

With the Ministers laudable decisions, no doubt it is capable of discouraging minors and encouraging them to engage in meaningful activities going forward, as new dawn is beacon on them .

Written BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF on [email protected].

IPAC Berates SIECs, Warns CSO's, Insists INEC Conducts Local Government Elections

By Abubakar Yusuf 

The Chairman, Inter party advisory council IPAC, Alhaji Yusuf Mamman Dantelle has cautioned the Civil Society Organisations CSO's not to allow themselves to be used by politicians with inordinate ambitions , who are insisting on hijacking council administration against the judgment of the Supreme Court.

He made this declaration in Lagos on Tuesday during the ongoing three days workshop on political party development in Nigeria organised by the Kukah Centre in conjunction with the European Union.

Dantelle who said the position of INEC towards conducting local government elections is non negotiable, stating the parlour nature of local government elections conducted by state independent electoral commission SIEC was obvious.

"As political parties, we are the players , on the field and knows what it takes to have a virile and robust local government administration in Nigeria."

He said the ongoing three days program by the political parties will be another opportunity to continue to insist on allowing INEC to conduct local government elections, in the interest of fair , free and credible elections.

While he will continue to disagree with the Civil Society Organisations on the position of local government elections in Nigeria, he asked them to reconsider their stance towards a virile nation.

He stated.

Kukah Centre, EU- SDGN, The Nigerian Women Trust Fund, Partners IPAC, INEC, Nigeria's Political Parties Holds 3- Day Political Party Development Workshop

By Abubakar Yusuf 

The Kukah Centre, European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria EU- SDGN, the Nigerian Women Trust Fund in collaboration with Inter- Party Advisory Council, IPAC, Independent National Electoral Commission INEC, and Political Parties in Nigeria, the Technical Working Groups TWG has concluded three days program on political party development workshop.

The program held at BON Hotel, Mcfelly Hall from Monday 4th ,November to Friday, 8th , November took place at Government Reserve Area GRA , Ikeja Lagos.

This was also in partnership with 16 implementing partners spread across the country and the globe.

The 3 Day program attracted facilitators and experts which attracted different topics on way forward to Nigeria's Political Party Development.

The program was declared open by the Chairman, inter party advisory council IPAC, Alhaji Yusuf Mamman Dantelle and Nkechi ,B. Abu, Ag Director , Election Party Monitoring Department of Independent National Electoral Commission INEC.

The 3 Day program witnessed presentation of papers by expert on Legal Framework and Party  ideology, Esrom Ajanya, Project Coordinator, (The Kukah Centre), introductions( Objective and Expected outcomes of Workshop while Mr Jide Ojo, ( Key Technical Expert , the Kukah Centre),  dwelled on Overview of Legal Framework Guiding Political Parties Compliance Mechanisms.

 Others are Professor Ogoh Alubo(Key Technical Expert, The Kukah Centre), on Defining Party Ideologies and Aligning it to National Interests. 

The Day three witnessed lectures on Strategic Planning and Organisational Structure with Designing Effective and Inclusive Structures presented by Dr Gad Peter,( Key Technical Expert, the Kukah Centre) , with Membership Profile and Political Communication which attracted presentation of papers Developing Enhanced Political Party by Uniform Etuk( Key Technical Expert, Kukah Centre), with Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning.

The three day workshop session attracted questions and comments along with group work,  and Technical Working Groups TWGs presentation.

Residents of Gwagwalada Commends Wike

...Asks for Completion of Sheik Hamdan Old Kutunku Road , Jeremiah Useni Road

By Abubakar Yusuf 

Gwagwalada residents has asked FCT Minister to construct other adjoining roads to the main market road under construction through Sheik Hamdan Secondary School to Old Kutunku area and Jeremiah Useni Road both abandoned for years.

While commending the Minister on the resumed construction of main Gwagwalada market road abandoned for over four years, he asked him to conclude rural rejuvenation through massive reconstruction of roads in Gwagwalada.

Abubakar Yusuf, a community resident made the request and commendation on behalf of numerous residents who suffered untold hardships during the rainy season.

He stated that public and private schools ,worship centres are abandoned during rainy season for lack of good and motorable roads.

The Sheik Hamdan Secondary School junction to old Kutunku was opened up and abandoned by the Gwagwalada Area Council for over three years now, all in the nomenclature of grading , while Jeremiah Useni among many others also suffered the same fate.

He implored the Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike to extend the reconstruction of the roads now that the contractors are in Gwagwalada to avoid duplication.

Out Of School Children OOSC, National Summit; Collaborating UBEC, Stakeholders to Address Basic Education in Nigeria

By Abubakar Yusuf 

The Universal Basic Education Commission UBEC has triggered a national discourse on the unabated crises of Out of School Children OOSC in Nigeria, desiring all stakeholders both in the public and private sector's attention.

The National Assembly has resolved to hold a National discourse on the way forward out of the quagmire of the over 20 Million out of school children OOSC across the country, with huge concentration or percentage in the Northern parts of the country.

This was occasioned by various stakeholders alarm over the degrading nature of our of school children OOSC and the consequences of allowing the trend to continue in the country with dire need to address a lasting solution towards it.

With the National Assembly representing the chunk of Nigerians both at the Senate and the House of Representatives, the die is cast to find the way forward out of the unabated crises of Out of School Children OOSC in Nigeria.

This also came at a time when former and serving Nigeria leaders had raised concerns over similar issue , with the recent one coming from former President Olusegun Obasanjo during the celebration of the recent birthday of a former Head of state , General Yakubu Gowon Rtd. 

The former President Obasanjo maintained that until and unless the out of school children OOSC issues are brought under control, the issue of kidnappings, Banditry, Boko Haram among other security problems would have been far from been resolved, in spite of government huge investments.

This was also against the backdrop of the Northern Governors forum NGF under the leadership of Kwara State Governor , Abdulfatah Abdulrasaq while raising the same alarm on the issue desiring adequate and concerted efforts.

They took position that the main  problems of Out of School Children OOSC that has brought about huge insecurity, poverty and hardship among other negative variables prevalent in the country, with the northern part of the .country leading.

The south south governors also took similar position stating that despite the efforts to reverse the trend, it has become a global challenge borne of our of local problems and will require urgent attention without further delay.

Stakeholders, social crusaders, CSOs among many other local , regional and global bodies had deployed series of fora for a conscientious government efforts and private investments of the need to address the Out of School Children OOSC conundrum.

The Universal Basic Education Commission UBEC clamour for more supports to address out of school children OOSC was justified by the multiple clamour and the requirements for the attainment of SDGs Goals 4 on Quality Education for all Nigerians,  in line with the decade of action Agenda, 2010-2030, just six years away.

The commission was not only clamouring, but domesticated the scourge of out of school children OOSC with efforts to attain the accurate numbers of the victims both from the Northern States and the Southern part of the country, consisting of 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory FCT.

Having done this through a committee that submitted the comprehensive reports , the official figure was arrived and awareness exercises along with series of programs to address the Out of School Children OOSC was rolled out, over two years ago and have soon swung into action.

This is at the commission under the leadership of Dr Hamid Bobboyi had exhausted all necessary impetus and action which included government policies and programs to reduce to the barest minimum the unending incidents of Out of School Children OOSC.

Since Basic Education is the foundation of learning and expanded to the Senior Secondary School, the efforts of Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) was been corroborated by the newly established Secondary Schools Education Commission (SSEC), for a collective efforts to resolve Out of School Children OOSC problems.

Having done all the necessary field work and gathered the real figures that may be subject to downward or upward trend ,the stakeholders collaboration with the handlers of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), has become germane to give the needful direction to the unabated and global approach to Out of School Children OOSC in Nigeria, that will be a veritable tools to all round development.

Written BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF on [email protected].