Editorial
Investing To Bridge Food Gap
The rise in international market costs for major food items almost reflects that of the 2008 food crisis, presenting a global threat to food security. The situation is especially terrible in Africa, where the COVID-19 pestilence and now the Russia-Ukraine crisis have uncovered the susceptibility of food systems of many nations like Nigeria that rely profoundly on imports of vital staple foods such as rice and wheat.
Nigeria is one of the 10 countries with the highest number of people in food crises. According to the 2022 Global Report on Food Crises, 12.94 million people were in acute food insecurity from October – December 2021. In a recent joint report by the World Food Programme (WFP) and the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO), both international bodies warned that acute food insecurity will likely worsen in Nigeria and 19 countries from June to September 2022.
Similarly, a report by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) revealed that Nigeria’s inflation rose in June which is its highest in more than five years, induced by rising prices of food and the high cost of diesel. The inflation rate surged to 18.60 per cent in June, up from 17.71 per cent in the previous month. The composite food index rose to 20.60 per cent in June 2022 on a yearly basis, the NBS also said.
Recent statistics from the Central Bank of Nigeria have indicated that Nigeria’s food import bill has risen to N1.1 trillion ($2.7 billion) in 12 months, representing an increase of about 45 per cent. In 2020, about $1.87 billion was spent on food imports. However, the latest CBN data on sectoral utilisation of foreign exchange showed that Nigeria spent $2.7 billion on food imports from January to December 2021, representing an increase in over $840 million.
The drive by the government to mitigate the food deficit is being jeopardised by nature. Uncontrollable flooding destroyed crops in the food-producing states. In Edo State, flooding swept away 280 hectares of rice plantation in Ovia last August. The rampaging flood wreaked havoc on farms in Adamawa, Kogi, Benue, Kebbi, Niger, Delta and Bayelsa States last year. In 2017, the authorities said 10,000 small-holding farmers had their crops washed away by flood after seven days of torrential rain in Benue State.
Since the advent of banditry in the Northern part of the country, farmers have found it difficult to access their farms, and in most cases, have to pay the bandits taxes before they can go to their farms. The situation is gradually getting out of hand to the extent that the Zamfara State Government recently directed residents of the state to obtain guns to defend themselves against bandits ravaging the state. The government should encourage ranching, deal decisively with the bandits, and enable the use of technology to process farm produce.
Terrorists are driving away farmers from their homes in the North-East. President Muhammadu Buhari stated in 2016 that over two million people were in internally displaced persons camps. The North-Central, which includes Benue and Plateau States, suffers gravely from cyclical Fulani herdsmen attacks. The effect of the assaults on food production is damaging. The insecurity demands a fresh impetus for farming to flourish.
All this leaves Nigeria in a desperate situation. The nation has been taking the easy way out with food imports, even where it has a comparative advantage. Therefore, urgent remedies are required to reverse the deficit. An integrated transport system to enable harvests to reach their destinations on time is imperative. The rail sector should be opened to global investors to encourage foreign direct investment and aid the movement of produce and goods.
The frightening situation in the agricultural sector now makes it necessary for the governors to rally round farmers in their states by providing for basic needs and adequate security to enhance massive food production for the populace. We have observed that many governors are only paying lip service to the development of agriculture. Specifically, there has been no coordinated plan to increase the production of food. These and other factors have led to the regular hike in food items.
Demonstrating commitment to agricultural development in Rivers State, Governor Nyesom Wike kick-started an agricultural revolution from inception by encouraging the private sector to re-engineer the 12 agric-related projects it inherited from previous administrations in the state. The government also worked with key partners to complete and put on stream the Rivers State Cassava Processing Plant in Afam, the Oyigbo Local Government Council headquarters. Other governors should do likewise to properly utilise the nation’s capacity for food production.
Interestingly, the cassava processing plant has since been completed and commissioned. It has placed Rivers among the top five cassava-producing states in the country. This factory will be fed with feedstock from 3,000 farmers within the farming communities and other farmers far and wide from neighbouring communities. The cassava plant will address the challenges of value addition of the crop in the value chain sub-sector, creating massive jobs.
Besides, the plant will generate increased incomes, and livelihood, ensure healthy cassava food processing activities and serve as a new page to achieve the desired result in the 10 per cent cassava flour inclusion policy as well as food and nutrition security. It will contribute to food security, and in line with the Federal Government’s policy, build an agribusiness ecosystem to address the challenges in the sector in partnership with all stakeholders. The governor should consolidate on the visible gains to boost agriculture.
To check the rapidly deteriorating food situation, the CBN has to support the food production initiative to increase local output in line with the Federal Government’s resolve to diversify the economy through agriculture and reduce pressure on the nation’s foreign reserves. Efforts must be made to address concerns about staple food items to reduce the country’s import base and make food available for Nigerians. The apex bank should critically look at rice, wheat, fish, and other significant food items that are taking a toll on the country’s foreign reserves.
Nigerians are outraged by the Federal Government’s approval of a 50 per cent increase in telecommunications tariffs, with organised labour threatening to mobilise workers to boycott telecom services. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) have described the upcoming tariff as outrageous, lamenting that it will worsen the already harsh living conditions of workers and the masses.
Similarly, the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) rejected the hike, stating that it was ill-timed and did not take into consideration the struggles of Nigerians. The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) also criticised the review, calling it an illegal, unconstitutional, and oppressive policy that undermines the fundamental rights and freedoms of Nigerians. It is a difficult moment for the industry.
Recall that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) approved a 50 per cent increase in tariffs for telecom operators last Monday, instead of the 100 per cent raise that operators had requested. This decision quickly angered the consumers’ association, which criticised the government’s approval as not only punitive but also insensitive.
We wholeheartedly agree with the stance of labour and other groups on this very sensitive matter. We unequivocally condemn the 50 per cent increase in telecom tariffs. Though telecom operators cite higher operational costs and inflation as reasons for the hike, the timing and impact raise serious concerns in the current economic situation. It is a blatant attack on the well-being of the Nigerian worker and a betrayal of the people to corporate interests.
Telecommunication services are essential for daily communication, work, and access to information. However, the average Nigerian worker already spends approximately 10 per cent of their wages on telecom charges. For a worker earning the current minimum wage of N70,000, this means an increase from N7,000 to a staggering N10,500 per month or 15 per cent of their salary, a cost that is unsustainable.
This hike exemplifies the government’s apparent ease in prioritising corporate profits over citizens’ welfare. It is shocking that the government approved a 50 per cent tariff increase for telecom companies within a month, yet took nearly a year to approve the recent minimum wage for workers, despite the rising cost of living and inflation eroding purchasing power.
The questions are: When will the government stand up for the citizens it swore to protect? When will the National Assembly rise to its responsibility and hold the Executive accountable for policies that blatantly undermine the welfare of the majority? When will the common man finally heave a sigh of relief in Nigeria? We urge the government, the NCC, and the National Assembly to review the implementation of this ill-advised increase.
It is difficult to understand the state of mind of the managers of the nation’s economy. Sadly, these managers have alienated themselves from the reality of today. How can a government approve a 50 per cent hike in the tariff of telecom services when even the N70,000 minimum wage has been eroded by inflation, electricity tariff hikes, exorbitant fuel costs, transportation, and other social services?
Even if there is a need for an increase, why does it have to be 50 per cent? If, after dialogue, it is agreed that a raise is necessary, we should all consider a more reasonable increase rather than the 50 per cent hike. Fifty per cent is excessive and will only worsen the already harsh living conditions of workers, placing a heavier burden and more suffering on them and the general population.
The recognition of telecommunication services as essential components of modern society cannot be overstated. In an era characterised by rapid digital transformation, these services are fundamental not only for personal communication but also for facilitating broader socio-economic engagement. The proposed tariffs increase in the telecom sector raises critical concerns regarding equitable access to vital services that support communication, education, healthcare, and commerce.
In a democracy, the people should be the central focus of all government actions and policies. Every decision should aim to improve their quality of life. This plan must be carefully scrutinised with the welfare of citizens in mind. An increase in telecom tariffs will negatively impact many Nigerians, as the internet has become an essential tool for business, communication, and daily activities.
The Tide calls for the immediate suspension of the 50 per cent hike in tariffs. Instead, we recommend a more reasonable adjustment of a maximum of 10 per cent, which balances industry sustainability with the current economic realities in the country. We also demand that the NCC engages in genuine, inclusive consultations with consumer advocacy groups, civil society organisations, and other grassroots stakeholders before implementing any tariff adjustments.
Born on January 28, 1975, in Opobo Town, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph and Love Fubara welcomed their second of five children and first son. His father, a former soldier who completed an overseas training tour of duty, instilled in him a strong sense of discipline and dedication. His mother, a civil servant, taught him the importance of hard work and perseverance.
He received his primary education at Opobo Primary School and continued his studies at Comprehensive Secondary School in Opobo. His passion for numbers led him to pursue a degree in Accountancy at the then Rivers State University of Science and Technology, now known as Rivers State University.
Upon completion of his Bachelor’s degree, he pursued further education and obtained a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a Master of Science (MSc) from the prestigious University of Port Harcourt in 2013 and 2016, respectively. Fubara’s dedication to his studies and his commitment to personal growth have shaped him into the accomplished individual he is today.
Sim, fondly called by his colleagues, started his career in 2003 as a principal accountant at the Rivers State Senior Secondary Schools Board. His dedication led to his promotion to Director of Finance and Accounts at the Government House in 2015. In March 2020, he was appointed Permanent Secretary and then became the Accountant-General of Rivers State on December 23, 2020.
His achievements are numerous, as he is a Knight of the St. Christopher (KSC) Order of the Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion. Additionally, he holds the prestigious traditional chieftaincy title of Amaopusenibo of Opobo Kingdom. The Governor’s commitment to family is evident through his marriage to Valerie Ibiere Fubara, with whom he shares three beautiful children.
Among Siminalayi’s other significant qualifications and accomplishments are his fellowship with the Nigerian Institute of Management and his fellowship with the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN). He holds membership in the Chartered Institute of Forensic and Investigative Auditors. His impressive background has gained him the trust and support of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), leading to his victory in the party’s governorship primaries for the 2023 general elections.
Fubara embodies a leadership style defined by simplicity and compassion. He exhibits patience, confidence, and empathy in his interactions with those he serves. His humility and faith in God make him trustworthy. Representing the younger generation, Sim leads with the slogan “Consolidating and Continuing the New Rivers Vision,” focusing on developing infrastructure, healthcare, education, security, agriculture, and investment opportunities for Rivers State.
The bravery exhibited by His Excellency in resisting godfatherism has attracted respect from a wide array of Nigerians, Africans, and supporters of democracy around the world. He emphasises serving the interests of the people of Rivers over any godfather. His actions unify diverse groups in the state, promoting a sense of belonging among various ethnicities.
Our affable Governor exemplifies robust moral leadership rooted in his Christian beliefs. As a devoted Knight, he shows compassion and selflessness in his governance. He fosters an environment where all religions can peacefully coexist. Fubara sponsored Muslim pilgrims for the 2024 Hajj and personally wished them well, encouraging them to pray for the state and Nigeria. His religious tolerance has earned him respect among Nigerians who value coexistence.
Moreover, the Governor’s appealing physique and charming smile have garnered admiration from many Nigerians, who view physical beauty as a reflection of inner qualities. His tall stature has solidified his status as a revered figure, commanding respect across the nation. Fubara has shown dedication to women’s issues by initiating several programmes in collaboration with the Women Affairs Ministry and the Office of the First Lady, highlighting his strong commitment to women’s empowerment and gender equality.
Sir Fubara has focused on actively involving young people in his governance by launching entrepreneurship and training schemes, notably the Rivers State Youth Empowerment Scheme. His efforts to support youth have earned him the backing of many young Nigerians. Additionally, he provides scholarships and makes donations to orphanages, demonstrating his commitment to investing in education for the benefit of children in the state.
Known for his strong commitment to national unity, this Governor reaches out to Nigerians from various backgrounds. As a state Governor, he demonstrates great nationalism by supporting citizens from other states, especially in Rivers. He respects the rule of law and democratic values, which has enabled past local government chairmen to complete their terms without issues. His effective management of Rivers State’s resources promotes transparency and accountability.
Despite facing numerous distractions, the Rivers Chief Executive has made remarkable strides in steering the state’s affairs, reflecting his unwavering focus and commitment to delivering results. He has encountered challenges but remains dedicated to his vision for a better state. His peaceful and caring leadership style has made him popular, inspiring new leaders to emulate similar qualities. By being strong yet compassionate, he has redefined the concept of leadership. Fubara’s selfless nature prioritises the state’s needs above his own. This has earned him widespread support.
As he commemorates his Golden Jubilee birthday today, even the most ardent critics, adversaries, and accusers cannot overlook that he embodies a worthy precursor in every sense.
Happy Birthday, His Excellency!
