Editorial
PH Real Madrid Academy
At the 81st AIPS Congress in Brussels, Belgium, in May 2018, Governor Nyesom Wike, who re
ceived the AIPS African Sports Power Award, showed off his plans to build a Real Madrid Football Academy in Port Harcourt. Later in the same month, AIPS President, Gianni Merlo, visited Nigeria on May 28, 2018, to witness the President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Ahmad Ahmad, laying the cornerstone of the project.
History was made when last week, Youth and Sports Minister, Sunday Dare, inaugurated the Academy in Port Harcourt. Dare acknowledged the institution’s standards and asserted that they would improve the development of national football. He recognised that the Academy represented a viable and long-term investment in human resources and capital development, as well as a huge income for the country.
“Our hope is that the Rivers Academy would produce renowned superstars that will toe the paths of the aforementioned legends. Hence, today’s event is a milestone for the actualisation of a new era. The Real Madrid Football Academy, Port Harcourt, which was founded in 2019 after Rivers State was given the franchise to operate by the Real Madrid Foundation, has been completed in a record time with the main objective to promote the values in football as a profession,” said Dare.
Wike explained that the reason for the creation of the Real Madrid Academy was to develop young talents with excellent football skills. “I have gone with leaders of the state to watch matches in Madrid. But one thing that has touched me is what can we do because we have a lot of talented young boys who have potentials but there is no way to actualise them”.
An interestingly bewildered Super Eagles’ Coach, Gernot Rohr, acknowledged that Real Madrid’s Port Harcourt Academy could rival the best football academies in the world. After a thorough tour of the soccer institution, Rohr was compelled to admire the project and its facilitator, Governor Wike.
He said, “The infrastructure is high level, it’s like in Europe and you can compare with one of the best academies in Europe as they have in Spain; Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia or in France in Paris (PSG) and Germany in Bayern Munich. I think they (Real Madrid Academy, Port Harcourt) are ready to start this programme with these wonderful structures and also with a good pitch. It will be very interesting to see what they can do.”
Similarly, Augustine Eguavoen, former Super Eagles player and coach, was impressed by the quality of the infrastructure. “I don’t think any other academy will beat this (in Nigeria) except maybe if you come in here and you have an interest and are passionate about what you want to achieve and when you see this, you want to better this. But for now, I don’t think anyone will be able to better it,” he stated.
Real Madrid has signed a technical support contract for the school with the Rivers State Government. In collaboration with the Spanish football club, the educational institution trains future stars between the ages of 5 and 17. The Spanish giant transferred the Rivers State franchise in 2019.
The Academy is an educational tool for the development of our younger generation through job and wealth creation. It divides its activities into sports, educational and cultural. This is in line with its philosophy of combining education and sports. The combination is unique to football academies around the world.
The facilities at the football training school are not only world-class but also feature architectural elegance that draws students to the best. The vision of uniting sports and academics echoes the saying “sports and education are inseparable” and is a prerequisite for the future of our youth and our nation.
In addition to outdoor facilities including soccer fields and well-built swimming pools, there are academic blocks to house classrooms, staff rooms, student residences, ICT classrooms, biology, physics and chemistry laboratories, restaurants, and other facilities. Furthermore, it has a football field, fitness centre, water treatment facilities, campground, and an accessible learning environment. Truly, it is a well-organised structure.
With rich football abilities, Nigeria continues to export footballers all over the world. So, Wike’s Academy offers another opportunity to create jobs and export talents to other countries. We congratulate the governor on his imagination, prescience and determination to building an academy consistent with the Federal Government’s development schedule for youths.
This institution will not only give birth to golden boys and girls but also bring prosperity and honour to our great country. What Wike has portended is awesome and tremendous. The Academy is a remarkable success capable of inspiring a new generation of proficient people.
Earlier, officials of the soccer college had stated that the school was tuition-free to all Rivers State indigenes, who would constitute 70 per cent of the students’ population, while 30 per cent would be open to trainee-footballers from other states across the country. This is plausible because it gives Rivers’ indigenes a sense of belonging. However, we hope that the admission procedure will be fair and open to all without room for politicisation and “man-know-man”. Again, how will the common person access the 70% admission quota for indigenes?
It is essential to make certain the continuity of this meritorious undertaking. This could be very critical to us, especially given the tendency of Nigerian leaders to abandon initiatives inherited from previous governments. It would be inappropriate for this worthy enterprise to close down upon His Excellency’s exit because too many resources have been invested in it.
Since sports remain one of the unifying elements in Nigeria, (especially football) through developing the Real Madrid Academy, Governor Wike is promoting national unity. In consequence of this Academy, Rivers people look forward to an exact replication of exceptional soccer gamers like Adokiye Amiesimaka, Richard Owubokiri, Taribo West, Finidi George, and Joseph Yobo including many other stars the Academy will subsequently produce.
Editorial
Another Look At Contributory Pension Scheme
In a report from the National Pension Commission (PenCom), it was disclosed that only 26 states in Ni-
geria have implemented the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), two decades after the Pension Reform Act (PRA) 2004 was passed. The report highlights the inconsistent espousal of the CPS across states, with some states partially adopting the scheme, others not yet participating, and some facing challenges in getting the bill approved in their state legislative assemblies.
In 2012, the Rivers State Government, under the leadership of former Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, embarked on a critical initiative by enforcing the Contributory Pension Scheme. This strategic move aimed to establish a sustainable pension system by requiring contributions from both the employer and the employee. The arrangement was designed to ensure that employees have a secured and reliable source of income post-retirement, fostering financial security and stability for the workforce.
Following the introduction of the plan, the government adopted a three-year transition that aimed to fully implement the scheme by 2015. During this transition period, the authorities focused on educating both employers and employees about the benefits and responsibilities of the CPS. This included workshops, seminars, and public awareness campaigns to ensure that all stakeholders were well-informed about the scheme.
The creation of the CPS represents an important milestone in the ongoing efforts to overhaul and enhance the state’s pension system, aiming to establish a more robust and secure retirement savings framework for its workforce. The primary objectives of the CPS are to effectively tackle the inherent shortcomings of the former pension system, including limited coverage, insufficient benefits, and financial uncertainty. This strategic framework is designed to ensure that employees receive sustainable and dependable retirement benefits.
However, to ensure fairness and protect the rights of all workers, it is imperative that the effective date of the contributory pension law be prospective, applying only to workers hired in or after 2012. This would allow those employed before 2012 to continue to benefit from the provisions of theDefined Benefit Scheme (DBS), while ensuring that new hirees are subject to the updated pension provisions.
Unfortunately, the pension programme has experienced several challenges. Despite monthly deductions being taken from civil servants’ salaries for their counterpart funding, the government has not fulfilled its obligation to contribute its share. This has impeded the advancement of the scheme and has left many civil servants without sufficient pension arrangements upon retirement.
As a result, the state pension law has undergone multiple revisions to address the issue of retiring civil servants who ordinarily should be covered by the contributory scheme. The amendments have aimed to accommodate these individuals within the DBS which provides a guaranteed level of pension, based on years of service and salary grade level.
The inability of the contributory pension scheme to gain traction has sparked worries about the long-term viability of the state pension system. The absence of government contributions has resulted in a funding shortfall that jeopardises the government’s capacity to fulfil its pension commitments to employees in the future.
Even if the CPS was created to address the perceived shortcomings and lack of sufficient funding of the DBS by combining funds from employers and employees’ contributions to pension funds custodians, retirees under the scheme have not experienced better outcomes than those who retired under the DBS. On the contrary, the execution of the CPS is different from what its advocates led employees to expect.
The complaints regarding the implementation of the CPS are varied and concerning. Retirees are underpaid despite years of dedicated service, with some having served for the mandatory 35 years. Corruption is rampant within the system, and many state governments and employers are not complying with the provisions of the Reform Act, 2014. Labour leaders in the country have criticised the scheme as being anti-workers and retirees welfare. The Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) has even called for the scheme to be scrapped, labelling it as a “huge fraud.”
Similarly, we urge the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, to completely abolish the contributory pension scheme in the state, as it will not benefit civil servants. We are particularly concerned about the future of workers who will retire under this scheme, especially since the current legislation allowing for the Defined Benefit Scheme will be obsolete in June next year, when the contributory pension law will be effective.
Moreover, the state government is deducting and remitting workers’ contributions to the pension scheme, but failing to contribute their own counterpart funds as required by law. This action is a violation of the rights of contributors as outlined in section 4(1) of the Pension Reform Act 2014. According to this section, employers are mandated to contribute a minimum of 10 per cent of an employee’s monthly salary to their pension fund administrators. Employers are also required to deduct a minimum of eight per cent from the employee’s salary and remit it to the fund administrator.
A government that supports labour rights, like the current one, should not allow workers to suffer from a failed retirement scheme. Workers who are close to retirement age should not have to face unnecessary challenges. The failure of the scheme is evident from the number of agencies that have withdrawn from it. Therefore, it is important for the state leadership to revoke the legislation.
Unlike previous administrations that may have disregarded the experiences of workers in the state, the present government has consistently recognised and appreciated their contributions. The labour-friendly policies of this government have shown its dedication to the well-being of workers. However, the failed retirement scheme remains a critical issue that needs to be addressed.
Editorial
Making Rivers Investment Destination
Determined to make a difference in governance, Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has signed an Executive Order aimed at the establishment of an investment agency. This initiative is poised to coordinate the growing number of enquiries and business interests expressed by local and foreign investors who now consider the state a destination of first choice. The Governor has endorsed Executive Order No. 002 of 2024, establishing the Rivers State Investment Promotion Agency (RIPA), presented by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dagogo Israel Iboroma, SAN.
The Governor explained that what he had just done was to give force to one of the recommendations in the report submitted to him by the committee that handled the organisation of the Rivers State Economic and Investment Summit in May. He said it was undisputed that the summit served as a veritable platform to open up the state for economic advancement, adding that the Investment Promotion Agency would be a one-stop shop to handle all related activities seamlessly in the state.
Fubara said: “This will enable investors, when they come in; they won’t need to run around, and maybe, fall into wrong hands or associations that will want to rip them off their investment stakes. With this, they will have an agency that they could go to, liaise with and the agency will have the required answers to whatever it is that they will need to address concerns before it.”
It is common knowledge that Rivers State is rich in natural resources and has a thriving economy primarily driven by oil and gas. However, beyond these industries, there is an abundance of other untapped opportunities in agriculture, tourism, and technology. Yet, despite its wealth of resources, the state has faced numerous challenges such as infrastructural deficits, poor governance in the past, and an economy heavily reliant on oil. As a result, diversifying the economy has become obligatory.
This development is a significant step towards making Rivers State a premier investment destination, with the Agency expected to play a critical role in attracting and retaining businesses, creating jobs, and driving economic growth. Fubara’s action points to the fact that beyond organising the summit, his administration can live up to fulfilling its promise of making Rivers State great again, economically. Any wonder the Governor stated he was not going to end with the signing of the Executive Order alone but would drive it to a conclusive end to achieve the desired fulfilment that Rivers people expected.
The recent inauguration of RIPA’s board marks a watershed moment in the state’s economic trajectory. Fubara’s decision to set up the Agency reflects his administration’s commitment to reversing the economic decline that has plagued the state for years. By appointing a new board, the government aims to inject fresh ideas and perspectives into the establishment, promoting a culture of transparency, efficiency, and accountability.
Entrepreneurial drive is strong in our state, leading to the daily rise of small-scale enterprises and new entrepreneurs. In today’s world, aspiring business owners frequently face challenges like insufficient funding, limited access to information about available resources, bureaucratic obstacles, and a lack of supportive government policies. The current administration should acknowledge these challenges and be dedicated to stimulating a favourable investment climate.
While the Governor’s vision and the Agency’s efforts are critical, achieving sustainable economic transformation will require collective engagement from all stakeholders. The active participation of the community, local businesses, and civil society is essential for the realisation of these goals. Community involvement is pivotal in ensuring that the needs and aspirations of the populace are integrated into the economic policies and initiatives. Creating avenues for public participation not only empowers citizens but also nurtures a shared sense of responsibility towards the development of the state.
The role of the media cannot be understated in this collective effort. The media serves as a watchdog and an informer, ensuring that the government remains accountable and that citizens are aware of opportunities and challenges in the economic landscape. As with any ambitious vision, several challenges may impede the speed to economic transformation in the state. These challenges must be acknowledged and addressed to ensure that progress is sustainable. The government, alongside the Agency, must proactively identify the barriers and develop strategic solutions.
Corruption remains a vital hurdle in many sectors in Nigeria, and Rivers State is no exception. To combat this, the government must demonstrate unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability, ensuring that funds allocated for development are utilised effectively. Also, the state must prioritise infrastructure development, which is foundational to economic growth. By investing in modern infrastructure, the government can lay the groundwork for enhanced productivity and attract local and foreign investors, nourishing an environment conducive to economic development.
Fostering partnerships with international organisations and development agencies can provide valuable resources and expertise. Such partnerships can facilitate technology transfer, capacity building, and investment opportunities that enrich the local economy. Furthermore, the message of economic transformation must be communicated to all residents of the state. Building awareness and consensus around the vision for the state will galvanise support and encourage collective participation in the transformation endeavour.
Undeniably, Fubara’s leadership and vision have given Rivers people hope for a better economic future and his initiative has put the state on the path to realising its full potential. Its commitment to creating an investment-friendly environment is necessary to attract investors and stimulate economic growth. RIPA’s mandate to return Rivers State to its rightful place as an economically viable entity is a challenge that requires collective effort and support.
Editorial
Checking Illegal Task Forces In Rivers
The operations of illegal task forces in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, have become a major source of concern for residents and motorists. The task forces, which are not sanctioned by the government, have been accused of indiscriminately arresting vehicle owners and impounding their vehicles on the pretext that they violated traffic rules.
They often target vehicles parked in unauthorised areas or those that are allegedly driven recklessly. However, there have been numerous reports of vehicles being impounded even when the owners have not committed any offence. In some cases, the task force members have been accused of using excessive force and intimidation to coerce motorists into making unauthorised payments.
The confiscated vehicles are usually taken to Rivers Marine Company situate at Marine Base, a defunct firm owned by the Rivers State Government. The vehicles are held there until the owners pay a ‘fine’ to the task force. The amounts charged vary depending on the type of vehicle and the alleged offence. Many residents have complained that the task forces are making it difficult for them to go about their daily lives. They have also been accused of extortion.
Curiously, the hoodlums have found a sinister alliance with corrupt elements within the police force. They operate under the guise of police authority, using the uniforms of law enforcement to lend legitimacy to their nefarious activities. This unholy alliance has created a dangerous situation, where criminals are able to hide behind the facade of respectability, while engaging in their criminal enterprises.
Police Commissioner Mustapha Bala bears a heavy responsibility to restore order and protect the people from these criminals. He must take immediate action to identify and remove the corrupt officers who are working in cahoots with the hoodlums. A thorough investigation is needed to expose the extent of this collaboration and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara, upon assuming office, declared the disbandment of all task forces in Rivers State. However, recent events have raised questions about the continued existence and operation of these task forces. Their reappearance has sparked confusion and concern among the people, who are wondering how these entities can continue to function despite the Governor’s directive.
Task force proliferation has been a persistent issue in Rivers State, with various administrations attempting to address their perceived inefficiencies and negative impacts. The reemergence of these groups after the Governor’s disbandment order raises questions about the state’s commitment to implementing its own policies.
The continued existence of task forces despite the Governor’s directive undermines the credibility of the government and raises concerns about the rule of law in Rivers State. The government must take a decisive action to address this issue and ensure the arrest and prosecution of the culprits. The public deserves an explanation for the reappearance of illegal task forces in different parts of Port Harcourt and assurances that their activities will be curbed.
Gangsters’ infestation of Rivers Marine Company and other government facilities has reached an alarming level, demanding immediate and decisive action. These criminal elements have audaciously exploited the spaces as their operational strongholds, creating a pervasive atmosphere. The situation has deteriorated to a point where the legitimate operations of state-owned facilities are severely compromised.
It is unconscionable that such a vital government asset as Rivers Marine Company has fallen prey to these nefarious actors. The Ministry of Transport, as the custodian of this facility, bears the primary responsibility for ensuring its integrity and security. The current state of affairs is a glaring indictment of the ministry’s failure. The continued presence of criminals within the premises sends a dangerous message as to how lawlessness could be tolerated.
Swift and decisive action is paramount to reclaim the facility. The Transport Ministry must prioritise their immediate dislodgement from the company and other affected areas. This may require the deployment of security measures, including surveillance, access controls, and the establishment of a dedicated task force to combat gang activity.
Residents of the state who are approached by individuals claiming to be part of a task force should exercise extreme caution. These individuals may use aggressive tactics or make false promises to coerce payment. It is essential to remain calm and refuse to engage with them. Instead, they should promptly contact law enforcement authorities by visiting the nearest police station or dialing emergency hotlines, providing detailed information about the incident.
Creating job possibilities for young people is vital for fostering productivity and reducing crime rates within the state. If provided with meaningful employment, our youths will gain a sense of purpose and financial stability, which can deter them from engaging in illegal activities. Employment empowers youths to contribute to their communities and develop valuable skills, enhancing their future prospects.
Job creation policies specifically tailored towards youth can effectively address the unique challenges they face, such as lack of experience and limited access to training. These programmes can offer apprenticeships, internships, and on-the-job training openings, allowing youths to gain practical skills while earning a wage.
Furthermore, job opportunities provide youths with a sense of belonging and responsibility. When they have a stake in their state, they are less likely to engage in destructive or antisocial behaviour. Employment also promotes social inclusion and integration, reducing the likelihood of marginalised youth turning to sundry crimes.
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